Jungkook fastened the sleek wristwatch around his arm, the metallic clasp clicking into place. He adjusted it for a snug fit, then grabbed his wallet from the bedside table. As he slipped it into his pocket, Hobi’s voice broke the silence.
"Jungkook, are you sure about going out with Mingyu for breakfast?" Hobi asked, his tone tinged with worry.
"Yes, hyung," Jungkook replied firmly, stepping into his sandals. "I already told him I’d come."
Hobi lingered near the door, arms crossed as he leaned against the frame. "I’m just worried... about how others might react."
Jungkook froze momentarily before turning to face him. His expression was calm but resolute. "Hyung, I have the right to hang out with my friends. I’m not anyone’s private property," he said. "Don’t you think I deserve my own life too?"
Hobi sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Of course, you do. I just.."
"Good," Jungkook cut in softly, turning back to the mirror for one final check. He smoothed his shirt, ensuring it fell perfectly, and ran a hand through his slightly long hair, giving himself a quick nod of approval.
As he walked toward the door, he paused in the frame, glancing over his shoulder at Hobi. "One more thing," Jungkook added hesitantly, his gaze meeting Hobi's. "Please don’t tell Suga hyung. I know you’re tempted, but... just don’t, okay?"
Hobi opened his mouth to respond but stopped as Jungkook shook his head with a small, resigned sigh. Without waiting for an answer, Jungkook stepped out into the hallway.
Hobi stood there for a moment, biting his lip. Finally, he muttered under his breath, "You know I can’t promise that, Jungkook," before hurrying to follow him.
After a fifteen-minute drive, Jungkook’s car pulled up in front of a charming vintage cafe, its quaint facade adorned with ivy and wooden signs that exuded an old-world charm.
Jungkook stepped out, adjusting the sleeves of his light jacket, his eyes scanning the surroundings briefly before checking his phone again. He turned to Hobi, who stood near the door alongside two bodyguards. "This is the cafe," Jungkook said softly, his tone calm but with a hint of anticipation.
Hobi gave a curt nod, his gaze surveying the area with a protective air. "I’ll stay out here," he reassured, gesturing towards the entrance.
Jungkook offered a small smile before pushing the cafe door open, the bell above it chiming softly as he entered. The warm, inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods greeted him instantly. He glanced around, taking in the cozy ambiance - the rustic wooden tables, soft lighting, and the low murmur of conversation from a few patrons scattered around the room.
His eyes swept across the room, but Mingyu was nowhere in sight. With a small sigh, Jungkook made his way to a table by the large glass wall, the morning sunlight streaming in and casting a gentle glow over the space. He pulled out a chair, settling into it as he picked up the menu card, flipping through it absentmindedly.