Inked

16-

Just as Mingyu settled into the restaurant's ambiance, Jungkook burst through the door, a food delivery bag slung over his shoulder. His eyes widened in surprise, and a wide grin spread across his face as he spotted Jasmine. "I missed you, Jasmine!" he exclaimed, quickly taking the empty seat beside her without a second thought.

Mingyu, still outside taking a call, was startled when he saw Jungkook join them. He swiftly composed himself and moved to sit across from them, trying to mask his discomfort. The casualness of the encounter caught him off guard; he hadn't anticipated Jasmine bringing her old friend along.

As Jungkook settled in, he instinctively reached out to tie Jasmine's hair up with a hairband he had on his wrist, his fingers deftly weaving her loose strands into a neat ponytail. "This will keep it out of your face while you eat," he said with a warm smile, his voice soft and familiar.

Mingyu watched silently, feeling a pang of jealousy stir within him. Jungkook's every gesture seemed effortless and genuine—so unlike his own reserved demeanor. The way Jungkook leaned in closer, the easy way he interacted with Jasmine, made Mingyu acutely aware of the difference in their styles.

Jungkook playfully teased Jasmine about the amount of food she was ordering, nudging her gently as he said, "You know you'll need help finishing all of this, right?" He grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I'll be your personal taste tester."

Jasmine laughed, rolling her eyes. "I can handle it! But you're welcome to help, of course."

Mingyu couldn't help but notice how Jungkook effortlessly engaged with her, their chemistry palpable. Every time Jungkook leaned in, Jasmine's laughter became softer, her gaze more intimate. He would often reach for a piece of meat and offer it to her, his hand lingering a moment longer than necessary, just to watch her face light up in delight.

"See? I knew you'd love it," Jungkook said, beaming with pride as Jasmine savored a bite. His easygoing nature contrasted sharply with Mingyu's calculated charm; it was as if Jungkook had a natural way of making her feel at ease, free from the weight of her title.

Mingyu shifted in his seat, trying to shake off the wave of jealousy that washed over him. He reminded himself that he was supposed to be Jasmine's fiancé, yet here he was, feeling like an outsider while Jungkook effortlessly stepped into a role that Mingyu struggled to fulfill.

As the banter continued, Mingyu observed how Jungkook playfully pulled on Jasmine's ponytail, earning a mock scowl from her that only made him laugh harder. The sweet, innocent camaraderie they shared made Mingyu acutely aware of how different their interactions were. While he struggled to break down the walls that came with his status, Jungkook thrived in the freedom of friendship, making every moment feel light and special.

Trying to reclaim the conversation, Mingyu leaned forward, forcing a smile. "So, Jungkook, how's the delivery business treating you?" he asked, attempting to sound casual while keeping his tone even.

Jungkook shrugged, still focused on Jasmine. "It's good! Keeps me busy. But honestly, I'd much rather be here with you two," he replied, giving Jasmine a soft smile that lingered a moment too long for Mingyu's liking.

The dynamic in the small restaurant shifted, and Mingyu felt the tension rise. He realized that if he wanted to win Jasmine's heart, he needed to step up, to show her that he could be more than just a royal figure. But at that moment, watching the ease with which Jungkook treated her, he couldn't help but feel the weight of his own insecurities loom large.