The Clandestine Us

Thirty-one

───── ❝ Jungkook's POV ❞ ─────

I was still in Jennie's living room, waiting for the food I ordered to arrive. Jennie, on the other hand, was in the bathroom, saying she was already full since they had just come from a company meeting and ate there.

I couldn't hide the joy I felt after finding out she still wanted me in her life. I still couldn't fully explain how we ended up in such a huge fight, but I knew how lucky I was that she still chose to understand me and continue what we have.

Even though I can't undo the past, I can promise her that I won't let it happen again.

When she said, "I just wish you had thought of me a little more in that moment," it cut deep. It made me wonder if she thought my love wasn't as deep as hers.

But I know now, I'm going to do better. With everything.

My thoughts were interrupted by the doorbell, followed by my phone ringing. I quickly stood up, answered the call, and headed to the door to get the food. I handed the delivery guy a tip and thanked him.

"Who's that?" Jennie called out from upstairs as she came down, her wet hair slightly towel-dried and her skin glowing even without makeup.

As usual, she's effortlessly stunning. Always in her prime.

Lucky guy? That's me, Jungkook.

"Hey," she said, raising an eyebrow when I didn't respond right away.

Concern flickered in her eyes. I must've looked like an idiot.

"Oh, sorry. I was distracted. You're just... too pretty, and everything kind of stopped for a second," I admitted.

She laughed, shaking her head.

"That was sweet... and also very normal of you," she teased, walking closer. "What's that? You ordered food?"

"I love you," I blurted, unable to stop myself. "Yeah, I got hungry," I added quickly, trying to play it cool.

"There you go again with your random I love yous," she chuckled. "But I love you too, lover. Also, I have food here, you should've just eaten that."

"I didn't want to be a bother. I already feel like just being here is bothering you."

"Oh?" she paused, tilting her head. "Wait, you're staying here?"

"Huh? I'm not?"

She grinned.

"Kidding. Stay whenever you like, hun."

I let out a small sigh of relief. For a second there, I thought she didn't want me around. I have practice tomorrow, but suddenly, I didn't feel like going. I'd rather stay here with Jennie, as long as she doesn't ask me to leave.

While I ate, she sat across from me, scrolling through her phone. Then it rang, and she excused herself to answer. From the tone of her voice, I could tell it was her mom—she called her eomma. Probably overseas again.

By the time she came back, I was already cleaning up.

"It was my mom. She's just checking in... and asking about Joshua," she said casually, like it was no big deal. "They're really close, so I'm not surprised."

I turned to face her, setting down the last plate.

"What is he to you?" I asked, trying to sound relaxed even though my chest was tightening.

"He's a friend. A close one. We met in L.A., turns out he grew up there." She shrugged.

I cleared my throat, trying to steady myself. The jealousy crept in, even though I didn't want it to.