Wish I Didn't Miss You

Chapter 5

The restaurant was buzzing with life as Taehyung, Namjoon, Jimin, Hoseok, Yoongi, and Jackson settled into their seats. The cozy ambiance, filled with laughter and clinking glasses, made it the perfect setting for a gathering of old friends. The group had managed to find time in their busy schedules to come together for dinner, a rare and cherished occasion.

Namjoon leaned back in his chair, a contented smile on his face. "It feels so good to finally sit down together like this. It's been too long."

Jimin nodded enthusiastically. "I know, right? We all need to do this more often."

Yoongi, ever the calm presence, agreed. "Agreed. Life gets so hectic, but moments like these are important."

Taehyung glanced at his watch, a hint of concern crossing his features. "Jungkook's late. I hope everything's okay. I'll give him a call." He pulled out his phone and dialed Jungkook's number. The worry in his eyes was evident as he waited for Jungkook to pick up. After a few rings, Jungkook's voice finally came through the line.

"Hey, Taehyung," Jungkook said, sounding slightly breathless.

"Where are you? We're all here waiting for you," Taehyung replied.

"Sorry, Taehyung. I got caught up with work. I'll be there in about ten minutes," Jungkook explained, a tinge of frustration in his voice.

Taehyung's expression softened. "Alright, we'll save a seat for you. Drive safe." He ended the call and turned back to the group. "Jungkook's on his way. He got held up at work," he said, his tone reflecting both relief and lingering concern.

As Taehyung put his phone away, the conversation around the table continued. The friends chatted about work, life, and everything in between. The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, a testament to their strong bond.

Hoseok leaned forward, eyes sparkling with curiosity. "So, Jimin, how's the new dance studio coming along?"

Jimin's face lit up with excitement. "It's amazing! We've got some new tech elements integrated into the floor. It makes the whole experience so much more immersive."

Jackson, always the cool friend, chimed in. "That sounds incredible. I can't wait to see it in action."

 "We should all go for a visit sometime. It sounds like Jimin's outdone himself again." Yoongi added. 

"Sure", Jimin replied excitedly.  "you guys, will love it."

As the conversation flowed, Namjoon took a moment to bring up a topic that had been on everyone's minds. "Has anyone heard from Jin lately?" he asked, his tone gentle but curious.

The question hung in the air for a moment, and the mood shifted slightly. Jimin was the first to respond, his voice filled with warmth and a touch of sadness. "I talked to him a few days ago. He's doing well in London. It's been a big change for him, but he seems to be adjusting."

Hoseok nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I miss having him around. London must be treating him well if he's sticking it out there."

Yoongi, always the voice of reason, added, "Yeah, it's good to hear he's doing okay. It's been a rough year for him."

 "I just hope he's finding what he's looking for over there." Jackson shrugged, feeding Namjoon with a buttered crab dish.  

Before they could delve deeper into the topic, Jungkook arrived, slightly breathless from hurrying over. He quickly scanned the table, noting the serious expressions.

"Sorry I'm late, guys. Work was crazy," Jungkook said, trying to catch his breath.

Taehyung's concern shifted to relief. "No worries, Jungkook. We're just glad you made it. Have a seat."