Love Again

10

A few days later, Jungkook found himself back at the gym, his usual routine with Mingyu and Eun Woo well underway. The clinking of weights and the rhythmic sound of machines filled the space, providing a steady background as the three of them worked through their sets. It had become a tradition for the trio-not just to exercise, but to use these sessions as a time to catch up and discuss business matters casually.

Today was no different. Between reps, they talked about upcoming projects, family responsibilities, and their ever-growing businesses. Mingyu, always one to focus on the future, was talking about an investment his family was making in a new tech startup.

"Things are moving fast," Mingyu said, pausing mid-set and wiping sweat from his brow. "But I think it'll pay off big. You should get in on it, Jungkook. Might be the right time to make some moves."

Jungkook nodded, though his mind wasn't fully on business today. He adjusted the weight on the machine, letting out a deep breath. "I'll think about it," he replied, not fully committing to the conversation.

Eun Woo, noticing Jungkook's slightly distracted mood, glanced over at him with a knowing look. "Speaking of making moves, have you asked Seokjin to be your date yet?"

Jungkook nearly fumbled his grip on the weights, caught off guard by the sudden shift in conversation. He straightened up, his expression a mix of surprise and amusement. "What are you talking about?"

Mingyu grinned, clearly enjoying the turn the conversation had taken. "You know exactly what we're talking about. The party's coming up, the one Eun Woo's family is throwing for the new shopping mall. We all agreed to bring a date, right? So, who's it going to be?"

Jungkook wiped the back of his neck with a towel, trying to play it cool. But inside, the thought of asking Seokjin had been lingering in his mind for days. Ever since their dinner and late-night walk by the Han River, he had felt something between them-a connection that went beyond casual friendship. But with everything Seokjin was dealing with, Jungkook hadn't wanted to rush things or make him feel pressured.

Still, the idea of showing up to the event with Seokjin by his side was tempting. More than tempting, actually.

"I haven't asked him yet," Jungkook admitted, leaning against the bench press machine. "It's... complicated."

"Complicated?" Eun Woo raised an eyebrow. "What's complicated about it? The guy clearly likes you. You're both adults. Just ask him."

Jungkook hesitated, running a hand through his hair. "It's not that simple. He's been going through a lot with... well, you know, his ex. I don't want to push him into something when he's still dealing with all that."

Mingyu, always the pragmatic one, shrugged. "Sounds like an excuse to me, man. If you wait too long, you're going to miss your chance."

Jungkook sighed, knowing they were probably right. Seokjin had been on his mind constantly, and while he wanted to respect Seokjin's healing process, he also didn't want to let fear hold him back.

"What's the worst that could happen?" Eun Woo chimed in, giving Jungkook a nudge. "You ask, and he says no. Or maybe, just maybe, he says yes. You won't know until you try."

Jungkook rolled his eyes, though a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "You guys make it sound so easy."

Mingyu chuckled. "It is easy. You just have to do it."

They continued their workout, but the conversation lingered in the back of Jungkook's mind. Afterward, as they sat down for a quick drink and some post-workout snacks, the topic came up again.

"So, you're really going to ask him, right?" Eun Woo asked, his tone more serious this time. "Because I think it'd be good for both of you."

Jungkook glanced down at his phone, thinking about Seokjin. He had been giving him space, but maybe it was time to take that step-to let Seokjin know that he was there for more than just a friend.