𝑬𝑵𝑺𝑵𝑨𝑹𝑬𝑫 | JUNGKOOK

13. Request

Alba's POV

The week that follows was one of the busiest ones, you were bent over some paperwork at the front desk in the steady hum of the hotel lobby. You missed Aina, the apartment was really silent without her presence. Mingyu came once to check up on you and Saddie, you were sure Aina made him to do so. She was busy but she really kept in touch always reminding you to have your meals on time and take care. Once in a while she facetime's and ask you all the ongoing hotel gossips.

You were really happy as the weekend was finally here that mean you were having two days off from tomorrow. Aina would finally come this Sunday. Right now you were bent over some paperwork you really hated doing paperwork, you were fine with all the works but not that, as you were still buried your manager Mr. Choi approached you "Alba, a VIP guest in the penthouse suite7B needs some assistance. Could you please go up and handle it personally?"

You mindlessly nodded understanding the importance of excellent customer service, especially for VIP guests. "Of course, I'll take care of it right away." You replied your head was still bent over the files scattered in front you.

You grabbed your notepad and made your way to the elevator. The elevator ride was swift, and soon you found yourself at the door of the penthouse suite. Taking a deep breath, you knocked gently before entering.

The moment you stepped inside, you were greeted by the lively sound of laughter and music. The spacious suite was filled with an air of celebration, and busy in partying. The soft glow from recessed lighting added a warm, welcoming feel to the space. Several guests were mingling and laughing, dressed in elegant attire that hinted at the exclusivity of the gathering. 

The centerpiece of the room was a plush sectional sofa, where a few guests sat chatting animatedly, their glasses clinking occasionally in toast. There was an air of affluence and ease, with everyone seeming to enjoy themselves without a care in the world. The atmosphere was festive.

As you scanned the room, trying to spot the VIP who needed assistance, you noticed Jungkook, he had a calm and composed expression. He was wearing a white dress shirt under a pinstripe vest, over a pinstripe suit jacket giving him a formal and polished look. He was wearing small earrings leaning casually against the bar, deep in conversation with an attractive woman. She was whispering something in his ear, causing him to chuckle softly, his signature smile lighting up his face. The playful interaction between them made it clear they were enjoying each other's company.

As you watched him interact with the woman beside him, you notice how different he looked when he smiled. His usual serious demeanor was replaced by a soft, genuine expression that you hadn't seen before. The way his eyes crinkled slightly at the corners and the subtle dimple that appeared on one cheek made his smile utterly disarming. It was very different from the aloof and distant persona he usually displayed.

Something stirred inside you at the sight of his smile—a warmth that spread through your chest, mingled with a pang of jealousy as you observed how comfortable and happy he seemed with the woman beside him. She was leaning in so close, clearly enjoying his attention, and you couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy at the effortless connection they shared.

Why am I feeling this way? You thought, annoyed with yourself. Jungkook was a narcissistic jerk, self-centered and arrogant and yet, seeing this softer side of him was unexpectedly captivating. You silently scolded yourself, reminding yourself to maintain control over your emotions. Admiring his adorable smile, as tempting as it was, wouldn't lead anywhere good.

"Oh! Come on. Get a grip Alba," you told yourself firmly. He's just a guy, and you've seen how he is. Don't let a smile fool you into thinking he's someone he's not. With that, you tore your gaze away from him. This was just a fleeting moment, and you had more important things to deal with than getting caught up in someone who probably wasn't worth the trouble.

Suddenly a voice spoke up, startling you. You quickly turned around to find Jimin standing there, a playful grin on his face. He was wearing a well-fitted black suit with a white dress shirt and black tie. The suit jacket has a pocket square, adding a refined touch to his outfit he was wearing black dress shoes that complemented the suit. His dirty blonde hair styled in a swept-back look, with the front slightly raised and tousled.

"Sorry if I scared you," Jimin said with a light chuckle, his voice smooth and welcoming. "I didn't mean to sneak up on you."

You let out a small, nervous laugh, still recovering from the surprise. "It's okay, Jimin. You just caught me off guard. What are you doing here?" you asked, curious.

Jimin leaned slightly closer, as if sharing a secret. "I know the host of the party," he explained, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "We're business partners, actually. He invited me over to discuss some new projects and, of course, enjoy the party."

He gestured around the room, indicating the lively atmosphere. "It's quite the event, isn't it? But what about you? What brings you here?" he inquired, his tone friendly and interested.

You briefly explained that you were there to assist a VIP guest, not entirely sure who it was yet. Jimin nodded, understanding your attention was suddenly drawn behind him to someone approaching you both.

 The man stepped in, cutting off your exchange with Jimin. He was dressed entirely in black, creating a striking monochromatic look.; A long, well-fitted black coat that reaches below his knees with a black turtleneck sweater underneath the coat and black trousers completing his look by black shoes, which appear to be polished.

 He leaned in close to Jimin and whispered something, causing Jimin to nod and chuckle softly. You observed them both, trying to place the man's face. He had a bright, charismatic smile and an easy-going aura that seemed familiar, though you couldn't recall where you'd seen him.

Jimin, noticed your gaze as he turned to you with a smile. "Oh, right! Let me introduce you," he said, gesturing to the man beside him. "This is J-Hope, or Hobi, as we call him. Remember that night at the VIP bar? He was with us.

As recognition clicked in your mind. Of course, Hobi! You recalled serving him drinks that night, where he had been engrossed in a banter with the other one Jin the whole time.

J-Hope grinned widely at you, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "It's nice to officially meet you again," he said warmly. "I remember you now—you were amazing that day and I really loved how— how you just told Jungkook off. And might I add, you're looking really pretty tonight." He said very cheerily gesturing his hand.

The unexpected compliment and comment caught you off guard, and you felt your cheeks warm as you blushed. It was flattering, yet a little surprising, especially in the middle of a work-related task.

Before you could respond, Jimin interjected, his tone light but firm. "Hyung, don't," he admonished, giving J-Hope a playful but serious look. "And don't flirt! She doesn't appreciate it, and you need to behave yourself."

J-Hope laughed, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright, I was just being friendly," he said, though there was a hint of teasing in his voice.

Jimin turned back to you with an apologetic smile. "Sorry about him," he said, glancing at J-Hope with a hint of exasperation. "He's had a bit to drink and when he drinks he tends to get a little more... expressive than usual. I'll make sure he gets home safely. I'll call his driver."

As Jimin guided him away, he gave you a reassuring nod. "I'll see you later. Don't let his comments bother you too much," he added with a friendly grin, before turning to focus on getting J-Hope settled.

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