The Clandestine Us

Seventeen

───── ❝ Jennie's POV ❞ ─────

Jungkook stayed the night. We fell asleep around two in the morning after sharing some intimate moments twice. We just missed each other's company—it was the first night we spent together again after our short vacation ended, marking the start of our official relationship.

It's fortunate that Jungkook and I are both idols, so not seeing each other often isn't a big deal. We both understand how much time, effort, and dedication our careers demand, especially when working on projects. The schedules can get overwhelming—photoshoots, practices, recordings, filming, events, and so much more constantly fill our calendars.

We're not the type to ask about each other's schedules in detail, probably because they're too lengthy to list, and our managers handle most of it. Instead, we've developed this unspoken rule: if one of us asks about work on a specific day, it usually means the one asking is free then.

I'm lucky that Jungkook still finds time for me, even without me asking. He doesn't listen when I tell him he should rest instead. He always reassures me in every way possible that he's the happiest when he's with me. Still, I can't shake the feeling that he's sacrificing his rest to be with me, even though I never demand it. I can't help but feel like I'm inconveniencing him in some way.

───── ❝ Jungkook's POV ❞ ─────

I woke up early because I had work to attend to. Luckily, I always keep at least two pairs of clothes in my car, so staying over was never a problem.

Jennie was still sleeping, her chubby cheeks slightly flushed. Her soft features were calm and relaxed, her lips slightly parted as her chest rose and fell with each quiet breath. She looked like a baby when she slept. It took everything in me not to lean down and kiss her face, but instead, I just smiled to myself, captivated by how effortlessly beautiful she was, even in her most unguarded moments.

As much as I wanted to tell the world—especially ARMY—that we were together, I knew we had to be careful. Jennie wanted to keep everything a secret, so much so that even her boss didn't know yet. I didn't mind if people found out eventually, but I wasn't about to risk Jennie's safety or peace.

After watching my sleeping princess for a moment longer, I reluctantly pulled myself away and began my morning routine.

"Babe," I called softly, scooting closer to her. "Love."

She stirred slightly, her eyes still closed.

"Hmm?" she hummed, her voice groggy as she slowly opened her puffy eyes.

"I'm leaving for work," I said, locking eyes with her. "I'll pick you up later?"

She stretched her arms and legs, but stayed lying down, her hair a sleepy mess on the pillow.

"You should rest, Kook. You didn't get enough sleep because... you know." She giggled, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

"Love, I don't feel tired at all. What are you saying,.. are you doubting my stamina?" I teased, grinning as I leaned closer.

She giggled again, her laughter like music to my ears.

"I'm not doubting your stamina, silly! I just think you need to rest." She reached up to caress my cheek, her touch so soft it made my heart ache. "You've even lost weight," she added, her tone suddenly concerned.

Her words caught me off guard, and I felt my body tense. She wasn't wrong—I'd been dieting harder for our upcoming comeback, but hearing it from her made me realize she noticed more than I thought.