Love Again

24

The next day, Seokjin found himself aboard the Jeon family's private jet, headed back to Seoul. The luxury and comfort of the aircraft was unmistakable, with its sleek interior and spacious seating. Seokjin had been welcomed with open arms-especially by Jungkook's stepmother and Jisoo, who were both seated beside him, chatting animatedly as the jet soared through the clouds.

Jisoo was recounting stories from the wedding, occasionally making Seokjin laugh, while Jungkook's stepmother offered him some advice about managing public attention, given how much their relationship had been discussed in the media. Seokjin felt surprisingly at ease, his initial nervousness fading away as they exchanged stories and tips about balancing fame and personal life.

"You're fitting in well," Jisoo said with a warm smile. "It's really nice to have you around."

Seokjin smiled back, grateful for her kindness. "Thank you. It means a lot. I was a bit nervous at first, but you've all made me feel really welcome."

Meanwhile, at the other end of the cabin, Jungkook was engaged in a conversation with Namjoon and his father about the family business. They discussed potential expansions and the company's growing influence internationally, all while occasionally glancing over at Seokjin.

Jungkook, despite being involved in the conversation, couldn't help but let his eyes drift to where Seokjin was seated. He watched as Seokjin laughed at something Jisoo said, his whole face lighting up in that familiar, captivating way that always made Jungkook's heart skip a beat. Even in this environment, surrounded by his family, Seokjin seemed to hold his own-charming, respectful, and effortlessly fitting into the Jeon family dynamic.

As if sensing Jungkook's gaze, Seokjin looked over and caught his eye. They exchanged a smile, and Jungkook felt a sudden surge of warmth and certainty wash over him. He excused himself from the conversation with his father and Namjoon, making his way over to Seokjin's side.

Seokjin looked up as Jungkook approached, raising an eyebrow playfully. "What's this? You abandoning business talk already?"

Jungkook grinned, leaning down to kiss the top of Seokjin's head. "I can't help it. I got distracted," he teased, his tone light but affectionate.

Jisoo rolled her eyes in good-natured amusement. "Here he comes, always interrupting."

Seokjin chuckled, but the way Jungkook looked at him was different this time-there was something deeper in his gaze, something that made Seokjin's heart flutter just a little. Jungkook's eyes lingered on him for a moment longer before he returned to his seat.

Back with his father and Namjoon, Jungkook tried to focus, but his thoughts kept drifting to Seokjin. As he sat there, the realization hit him again, stronger this time. Watching Seokjin interact with his family, fitting so seamlessly into his life, Jungkook knew without a doubt that this was the man he wanted to spend his life with.

He imagined a future with Seokjin-one where they weren't just partners in secret, but publicly, proudly together. And beyond that, he imagined marriage, a life full of love and shared moments, free from the constraints of judgment or expectations. The thought brought a soft smile to his lips, one that didn't go unnoticed by Namjoon, who raised an eyebrow in silent question.

"Thinking about something?" Namjoon asked quietly, a knowing smile tugging at his lips.

Jungkook glanced at Namjoon, the smile still on his face. "Yeah," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "Something... someone."

Namjoon followed Jungkook's gaze back to Seokjin, who was now deep in conversation with Jungkook's stepmother. "You really love him, don't you?"

Jungkook nodded, his voice filled with certainty. "I do. More than anything."