The Clandestine Us

Twenty-eight

───── ❝ Jungkook's POV ❞ ─────

Right hand in my pocket, left hand holding my water bottle, I kept an amused smile to myself as I watched my gorgeous girlfriend having fun.

There was something satisfying—no, grounding—about seeing her laugh so freely under the lights, the music pulsing through the air while her ponytail bounced with every move. But it's really her happy face that lit up the space more than any strobe could. And damn, she looked stunning.

I didn't even notice Jaehyun until he slid up beside me, bumping his shoulder into mine playfully like he'd been standing there for a while, his presence breaking my little moment of silent admiration.

"What the... what?" I asked, frowning when I turned and saw him.

"Been standing here for a whole minute," he said, raising an eyebrow. "Enjoying the view?" His tone was teasing, laced with suspicion.

"Enjoying watching my girl," I replied, putting a little more weight on the last two words. Then I raised a brow. "Wait, you're still here?"

I pulled my hand out of my pocket as I glanced around. Most of the 97-liners had already left. And yet, this guy—Jaehyun—was still around. He always had a way of disappearing and reappearing like some kind of K-drama second lead.

"I was with my members," he shrugged casually. Then he squinted at me. "Hold up. Your girl? For real? Who?" His voice rose slightly in disbelief.

"You know her," I said simply, eyes shifting toward Johnny and Yuta, who were making their way over to... Oh!

My brows twitched slightly. Just watching.

Jaehyun followed my gaze, eyes scanning the group.

"Nayeon-sunbaenim?" he guessed.

"Not my type."

"Ohh, hot take," he grinned. "So, you're into older girls?" He nudged me again. "Hwasa-sunbaenim, maybe? I wouldn't blame you. She's insanely talented—"

I tuned him out at that point, already walking toward Jennie. She was casually chatting with Johnny and Yuta. The girls she'd been dancing with were still with her, the energy still high despite the hour.

I know Jennie. She's a social butterfly. She could talk to anyone—idol, staff, fan—and still be warm without giving the wrong idea. She never assumed anything, not even when it was blatantly obvious—unless it was said out loud, clear as day. For her, words mattered. And honestly? I wouldn't even blame the guys who are probably drawn to her left and right. I mean, for God's sake—it's thee Jennie Kim. Not just anyone.

I'm her Jungkook Jeon. And without question, I'll always let my woman shine—loud, bright, and unapologetically. But if things ever go sideways, I'll be there in a heartbeat. No hesitation, no second thoughts. I'll fight for her every damn time.

Thoughts aside, yeah, it really was Johnny and Yuta.

"We're not intimidating, for real! Just message any of us, we'll respond," I heard Jisoo say with a bright smile.

"Definitely, definitely," Jennie echoed, nodding enthusiastically.

Even over the music, I caught their voices, but not the whole context of the conversation.

"'Sup?" I said, approaching them with a calm stride, sliding an arm around Jennie's waist, even though she was still holding Jisoo's hand.

Jennie glanced up, a little startled and probably ready to protest, but her face softened the moment she saw it was me. That familiar warmth spread across her face as I dipped down to kiss the top of her head.