Love Triangle #Namjinhopeff

Chapter 3: Dinner and Discontent

Chapter 3: Dinner and Discontent

The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the city. The BTS members, still buzzing from their day out, made their way to a stylish restaurant Namjoon had reserved for them. The restaurant’s ambiance was intimate, with soft lighting and elegant décor creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for their evening meal.

As they entered, Namjoon’s hand was firmly clasped around Jin’s waist, a gesture of affection that made Jin smile brightly. Hoseok, walking behind them, couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy. He had seen Namjoon’s hand sliding lower on Jin’s waist, a possessive but loving touch that made Hoseok clench his jaw. His fists balled at his sides, his knuckles turning white.

Trying to mask his discomfort, Hoseok made a deliberate move to bump into them as he walked by, causing Namjoon and Jin to separate.

“Oh, sorry about that!” Hoseok said, putting on a cheerful, innocent smile. “I didn’t see you there.”

Jin glanced at Hoseok, a touch of confusion in his eyes, but he quickly brushed it off. “It’s okay, Hoseok. Just be careful.”

They were soon seated at a large, round table, the other members settling into their chairs and chatting excitedly. The menu was filled with a variety of dishes, and the air was filled with the sound of laughter and the clinking of cutlery.

“So, what’s everyone thinking?” Jimin asked, leaning forward with a playful grin. “I’m in the mood for something spicy. How about you, Yoongi?”

Yoongi rolled his eyes but smiled. “I’m up for anything as long as it’s not too bland.”

Taehyung, his eyes still sparkling from his earlier encounter with the puppy, nodded enthusiastically. “I’m with Jimin. Let’s go for something exciting!”

Jungkook, who had been quietly observing, added, “I’m good with whatever, as long as there’s enough to go around.”

Namjoon, always the considerate leader, had already taken the initiative. “I’ve made a reservation for us, so don’t worry about ordering too much. I’ve got it covered.”

As the food began to arrive, Hoseok tried to keep his focus on the conversation, but his attention kept drifting back to Namjoon and Jin. He saw Namjoon’s hand resting on Jin’s leg under the table, Jin’s fingers lightly caressing the back of Namjoon’s hand. It was a subtle but intimate display of their relationship.

Despite his inner turmoil, Hoseok forced a smile and engaged in the conversation, though he was noticeably quieter than usual. He picked at his food, his appetite diminished as he watched Namjoon and Jin interact.

“Is something wrong, Hoseok?” Jin asked, noticing Hoseok’s lack of enthusiasm. “You barely touched your food.”

Hoseok shook his head, trying to muster a convincing smile. “No, I’m just not very hungry. Don’t worry about me.”

Jin raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further. “If you change your mind, just let me know. I can order something else for you.”

Meanwhile, the rest of the table was lively with playful banter. Yoongi and Jimin were still bickering over their ice cream flavors, their voices rising in mock outrage.

“I told you, Jimin, vanilla is the best!” Yoongi said, shaking his head. “Mint chocolate chip is overrated.”

“Oh please,” Jimin retorted, laughing. “Vanilla is so boring. Mint chocolate chip is where it’s at!”

Taehyung and Jungkook were engaged in their own conversation about the cute puppy, discussing names and possible breeds.

“I think we should name him ‘Mochi,’” Taehyung suggested with a grin.

Jungkook nodded enthusiastically. “Mochi’s a great name. It suits him perfectly.”

As the evening progressed, the lighthearted atmosphere began to shift. Hoseok’s attempts to stay engaged were faltering. He felt the weight of his emotions pressing down on him, and his attempts to appear content were growing increasingly difficult.

Namjoon and Jin continued their affectionate displays, whispering to each other and sharing occasional kisses. Hoseok, feeling increasingly isolated, tried to join in the conversations but felt disconnected. He could see the love between Namjoon and Jin, and it was a constant reminder of what he longed for but could never have.

At one point, Namjoon reached over and squeezed Jin’s hand, his eyes filled with genuine affection. “I’m really glad we could have this night together.”

Jin’s smile was radiant. “Me too. It’s perfect.”

Hoseok, unable to hide his discomfort any longer, cleared his throat. “Excuse me for a moment,” he said, rising from the table.

He walked outside, seeking a brief respite from the overwhelming emotions. The cool evening air was a welcome relief, and he leaned against the railing, taking deep breaths. He watched as couples walked by, holding hands and enjoying their evening. It was a stark contrast to the emptiness he felt inside.

After a few moments, Hoseok composed himself and returned to the table. He sat down quietly, his mood visibly subdued.

“Everything okay, Hoseok?” Taehyung asked, his voice filled with concern.

“Yeah, just needed some fresh air,” Hoseok replied, his voice strained. “I’m fine now.”

The meal continued, and despite his best efforts to appear normal, Hoseok’s emotions were on edge. The sight of Namjoon and Jin’s happiness was a constant reminder of his own unfulfilled desires. He forced himself to smile and engage in the conversation, but the smile never quite reached his eyes.

As dessert was served, Namjoon leaned in to Jin, his voice low and affectionate. “I’m really grateful for tonight, Jin. It means a lot to me.”

Jin’s eyes sparkled with happiness. “I’m glad you think so. I wanted it to be special.”

Hoseok watched from across the table, his heart aching. He picked at his dessert, barely tasting it, his mind consumed by the sight of Namjoon and Jin’s love.

As the evening drew to a close, the group gathered their things and prepared to leave. Hoseok, feeling emotionally drained, forced a smile as he said his goodbyes. He watched Namjoon and Jin walk together, their hands intertwined, and his heart ached with a mix of longing and resignation.

The night had been filled with moments of joy and tenderness for the couple, but for Hoseok, it had been a painful reminder of the love he couldn’t claim. He watched them from a distance, his heart heavy with unspoken emotions.

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To Be Continued