SHADOWS OF TRUTH (JENNIE KIM FANFICTION)

12. Dinner Date

The streets were quiet as Jennie arrived at the address Y/N had sent her. She glanced around, her eyebrows raising slightly as she took in the humble, tucked-away storefront of a small family-owned restaurant. The worn, hand-painted sign above the door and the soft, warm lighting inside gave the place a charming, unpretentious feel. It was far from what she'd expected.

As she approached, she spotted Y/N leaning casually against the side of the building, her arms crossed and a familiar, easygoing grin spreading across her face as she noticed Jennie. Y/N straightened up, pushing off the wall with a nod of appreciation as her eyes swept over Jennie.

"Look at you," Y/N said, a teasing glint in her eyes. "I was worried you'd show up in full Chanel."

Jennie smirked, brushing a hand over her sweater, which was simple yet stylish. "I thought about it," she replied, lifting an eyebrow playfully. "But then I figured I'd give you a chance to keep up."

Y/N chuckled, holding the door open as Jennie stepped past her. "Right. How generous of you."

Inside, the cozy ambiance wrapped around them, the low hum of conversation filling the room, accompanied by the mouth-watering scent of spicy tteokbokki and other homestyle dishes. Jennie took in the checkered tablecloths, the handwritten menu pinned on the wall, and the quiet, warm lighting, her heart softening at the simplicity and charm.

"This... is cute," Jennie admitted, glancing over at Y/N as they walked to a small booth near the back. "Definitely didn't expect it."

Y/N shrugged, clearly pleased by her reaction. "It's one of my favorites. Plus, didn't want to throw you into a five-star restaurant right away and scare you off."

Jennie scoffed, nudging Y/N's shoulder as they slid into the booth. "Please, I can handle myself just fine, thank you very much. But I am surprised you're the type to like a low-key place like this."

Y/N picked up a pair of chopsticks, twirling them between her fingers as she looked at Jennie with a raised eyebrow. "What can I say? I've got layers. Besides," she leaned in, dropping her voice conspiratorially, "it's places like this that keep the nosy people away."

"Right," Jennie replied, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Wouldn't want anyone discovering your weakness for cozy family spots."

Y/N laughed, her eyes glinting with humor. "Careful, or I'll make you do all the ordering."

Jennie's lips curled in a playful challenge. "Go ahead, I'm not scared of a little spice."

"Big talk," Y/N teased, raising an eyebrow as she called over the server, ordering a few plates of their most popular tteokbokki and soju to go with it. She leaned back as the server left, giving Jennie an approving nod. "You're in for a treat."

Jennie rolled her eyes, leaning forward with a grin. "Well, impress me, then."

They exchanged a playful glance, the energy between them feeling both relaxed and charged with something deeper. Y/N's casual confidence seemed to settle Jennie, making it easy to let go of her usual need for control. She found herself matching Y/N's energy, letting her own flirtatious side come out as they bantered back and forth.

"By the way," Y/N said suddenly, looking at her with a smirk. "You look... good tonight."

Jennie tilted her head, pretending to think. "Good? That's it?" she replied, crossing her arms with a pout. "You really know how to compliment a girl, don't you?"

Y/N's grin widened, her gaze steady. "Alright, fine. You look stunning. Better?"

Jennie felt warmth rush to her cheeks, but she held her composure, her lips quirking in amusement. "Much better."