Autumn Serendipity |Jeon Jungkook|

4: Shared Moments

Sunday dawned bright and clear. I decided to spend the day shopping for my upcoming trip to the Philippines. I had an office to manage there, and looking my best was always a priority. After breakfast, we were on our way to my favourite boutique.

My tailor, greeted me warmly as I entered. "Aurelia, it's so good to see you!" 

"It's great to see you too, Mrs. Stephanie," 

After completing my shopping, I decided to purchase a few gifts for my colleagues in the Philippines. By the time I finished, it was late afternoon, and Charles helped me load all the bags into the car.

"Take these to the car, Charles. I think I'll walk around a bit," I said, feeling the need to stretch my legs and enjoy the pleasant evening air.

Charles nodded. "Of course, Ms. Aurelia."

I strolled down the street, taking in the vibrant energy of the city. As I walked, a small photo studio caught my eye. Through the window, I saw Jungkook, his face illuminated by the soft glow of a computer screen. He seemed deeply focused, his expression intense and absorbed.

Instead of walking away, I decided to step inside. The bell above the door jingled softly as I entered, drawing Jungkook's attention. His face lit up with a wide smile when he saw me.

"Aurelia! What a surprise," he greeted.

"Hi, Jungkook," I replied. "I was just passing by and saw you here. I thought I'd say hello."

"I'm glad you did," he said, motioning for me to come closer. "I was just working on my portfolio. Would you like to see it?"

"Of course," I said, intrigued.

We spent the next 45 minutes talking casually, Jungkook showing me his work. His portfolio was a stunning collection of photographs, and his passion for his craft was evident in every shot, I found myself captivated by his talent and dedication.

As the clock neared 7:15, I realized it was time to leave. "This is amazing, Jungkook. You have a real gift."

"Thank you, Aurelia," 

Before leaving, I decided to take a step further. "Can I have your phone number? I'd love to keep in touch."

His smile widened, and he quickly jotted down his number. "I'd like that a lot."

We exchanged numbers, and I said my goodbyes.

By the time I arrived home, it was nearly 8 PM. I spent the evening organizing my new purchases and preparing for the week ahead.

~

Jungkook's genuine demeanour and passion for his work had left a lasting impression on me. As I sipped my morning coffee, I decided to reach out to him. 

I picked up my phone and texted him:

"Hi Jungkook, would you be free for lunch on Thursday? I'd love to catch up and chat more. - Aurelia"

His response came almost immediately, making me smile.

"Hey Aurelia, I'd love to! Let's meet at noon. Do you have a place in mind?"

We decided on a quaint little bistro downtown. It was rare for me to let someone into my personal life, but something about Jungkook made me feel at ease.

~

Thursday arrived, and I dressed in a chic yet casual outfit, perfect for a friendly lunch. Charles drove me to the bistro, and I arrived a few minutes early, finding a quiet corner table. The ambience was warm and inviting, with soft jazz playing in the background.

Jungkook arrived right on time. "Hi, Aurelia! You look great," he greeted, pulling out a chair and sitting across from me.

"Thank you, Jungkook. You look good too," I replied, feeling a pleasant flutter in my chest.

We ordered our meals, settling into an easy conversation. As we chatted about various topics, from photography to travel, I found myself genuinely enjoying his company. 

Halfway through the meal, I decided to share my upcoming travel plans with him. "I'm travelling to the Philippines for two weeks, I have to manage the office there and oversee some important projects."

Jungkook's expression shifted slightly, a hint of disappointment flickering in his eyes. "Oh," he said softly, "that sounds amazing, but it's a bit of a bummer for me."

I tilted my head, curious. "Why's that?"

He sighed. "It's my birthday on the 25th of this month, and I was planning to host a party. I thought it might be nice to invite you."

"I'm sorry, Jungkook. I didn't know," I said sincerely. "I wish I could be there."

He shrugged. "It's fine. Work comes first. I understand. I just hope you have a great trip."

The conversation shifted to lighter topics, but Jungkook asked me a question that caught me off guard.

"So, Aurelia, which company do you work for?" he inquired.

I took a sip of my drink before answering. "I work for Kim Public Limited Industries."

The reaction was immediate. Jungkook's eyes widened in shock, and he choked on his ramen, coughing violently. I quickly handed him a bottle of water.

"Are you okay?" I asked, watching as he took a few gulps of water.

"I'm sorry," he said, his voice still hoarse from coughing. "I didn't realize who you were. Kim Public Limited Industries is, well, it's kind of the enemy of the economy in some circles."

I sighed, not surprised by his reaction. "Jungkook, please, don't treat me any differently. I'm still the same person you met at the market and the coffee house. Just because of my job title doesn't change who I am."

He looked at me, his eyes searching mine. "I didn't mean to make it awkward. It's just... unexpected."

"I understand," I said softly. "But let's just be ourselves, okay? No need for formalities or extra respect."

He nodded.

Just as we were getting back into the flow of conversation, my phone buzzed. It was Lily, my secretary.

"Excuse me for a moment," I said, picking up the call. "Yes, Lily?"

"Ms. Aurelia, you have an upcoming meeting in 30 minutes. Just a reminder," Lily informed me.

"Thank you, Lily. I'll be there," I replied, ending the call and turning back to Jungkook. "I'm sorry, but I have to go. Duty calls."

He nodded, understanding. "Of course. Thank you for spending the afternoon with me."

I stood up, reaching for the bill, but Jungkook stopped me. "I'll get it," he insisted.

"No, please. Let me," I replied. I paid the bill and gathered my things. "It was nice seeing you again."

"You too, Aurelia," he said, standing up as well. "Have a safe trip, and let's keep in touch."

"Definitely," I agreed, giving him one last smile before walking out of the restaurant. 

Note: Since this is my first time writing, I don't know how this is coming together, but I hope to give you all an interesting and enjoyable narrative to read. I plan to include multiple views for this novel. I will be mentioning that the upcoming chapters will be written from Jungkook's point of view.  I hope everyone is doing well and sending my best wishes for whatever is happening in your lives, much as Aurelia's. I read every comment, so let me know what you are awaiting from this book.

❤️ Chloe