The mask

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Later that evening, they all gathered at Yasmine's house since her parents were on a business trip again.

"Wow, it's so nice to finally meet you guys," Tisha exclaimed with a smile.

"The pleasure is all mine," Hoseok replied, returning her smile warmly.

Yasmine noticed Namjoon's concern about the situation and approached him, offering a reassuring pat on his shoulder. "Relax, it's fine. Thank you for allowing this. To all of us," she said sincerely.

Namjoon simply nodded in response, his expression reflecting gratitude for Yasmine's understanding.

Yasmine raised her voice so everybody could hear her. "Okay, guys, snacks and drinks are in the kitchen. There's a lot, so enjoy. If you like, you're also welcome to stay. My parents probably won't be back for another week or so," she smiled.

An hour later, the atmosphere had completely transformed. Laughter and conversation filled the room, with everyone fully engaged and enjoying each other's company. Even Namjoon, who had initially been reserved, had visibly loosened up, joining in on the fun and laughter with the rest of the group.

Yasmine was getting some water from the kitchen while keeping an eye on everybody. It had been ages since her house was this full. She felt happy, relaxed, and warm. She realized how much she had missed this—the sound of laughter, the fun, the feeling of someone nearby.

She snapped out of her thoughts when she suddenly felt two strong arms hugging her waist from behind.

"What are you thinking about, beauty?" a familiar voice asked her.

"Let's go upstairs," Yasmine answered.

"What?" he whispered, his face turning red.

She thought he was adorable. Jungkook always acted so tough and charming, but in the end, he was easily shy.

Yasmine kissed his lips and, without thinking, she guided him to the stairs. Nobody was paying attention to them anyway.

"Are you sure you want this?" Jungkook stuttered upon entering her room.

"Sure of what? Time alone with my boyfriend? Of course I want that," Yasmine smiled.

Jungkook's eyes widened. "But you said it was too early for that."

"Oh, wait...." Yasmine finally understood what he meant. "No, no, no, I wanted to cuddle and watch a movie." She waved her hands and head at the same time, making sure he understood her.

"Ah," Jungkook nodded. "Then is it fine if I lay down there?" He pointed at her bed.

Yasmine laughed. "Of course, let me grab my laptop."

She cuddled in his arms while choosing a movie.

"Kookie?"

"Hmm," Jungkook sleepily hummed.

"You know I really like you, right?" Yasmine asked.

He gave her a sleepy kiss.

"Of course I do, babe. I feel the same way. You know that, right?"

"I do, but what about the TikTok issue and us? Will Bang PD be okay with it?"

Jungkook opened his eyes. "Hmm, I'm sure it will be okay. We are allowed to date as long as we don't get caught. Why?" He snuggled deeper into her

"It's just.... Namjoon sounded pretty serious about it," Yasmine thought out loud. "Namjoon sounds pretty serious about everything," Jungkook replied. "It will be fine. Trust me."

He laid down his head on her shoulder while closing his eyes.

"I... I don't know, Kookie... Namjoon has a point. You need to be careful in case of haters and saesangs..." She watched him.

His eyes were already closed, and his breathing was calm. She realized he was sleeping.

Yasmine gazed down at Jungkook's peaceful face, a wave of affection washing over her. Despite the weight of their conversation, he had drifted off to sleep, his trust in their bond unwavering even in unconsciousness. She couldn't help but marvel at his resilience and the depth of his love.

With a tender smile, she gently brushed a stray lock of hair from his forehead, tucking it behind his ear. Leaning down, she pressed a soft kiss to his temple, savoring the warmth of his presence.

"Our timing is always off, huh," she sighed, kissing him goodnight on his forehead.

"If only I knew a way to calm my worried mind, then maybe I could give my everything in this relationship... Goodnight," she whispered before closing her eyes.

*author*

small chapter today but in my opinion better than the 2 before.

finally my throat and ears are all better and no fever anymore . :)