The Clandestine Us

Forty-two

───── ❝ Jennie's POV ❞ ─────

I scolded Jungkook on the way to my house, but he just pouted at me. Sometimes, he even smiled as if he were proud. It wasn't real anger anyway—I was just trying to make him understand that we couldn't be that sweet in public... especially because earlier, he had been clinging to me more than usual.

Could this be the effect of introducing him to my mom? If it is, then he really felt it.

When we arrived at my house, I unlocked the gate with my keys. My housekeeper wasn't home, though she had been stopping by almost daily to check on things and tidy up. She was scheduled to return on the third day of the month, just as I had instructed her before the holidays.

It wasn't too dark outside; the lights cast a gentle glow, and when I switched on the lights inside, I froze. I was stunned.

My living room was filled with flowers, so many that they almost took over the space. Some were fresh, still vibrant, while others had started to wilt slightly, but I loved them all. My heart felt tight with happiness.

I couldn't move. My muscles refused to respond. I felt his arm wrap around my waist, warm and protective, and then his lips pressed gently to my temple.

"Yah, Jeon Jungkook, you didn't have to do this... you know? But... to be honest, I love it!" I squealed, trying to sound composed but failing miserably.

"Anything for you. I'm happy you appreciate it," he said, pressing his hand against my waist just a little more.

"If you're happy, then I'm the happiest," I said, smiling widely, glancing at the flowers, then back up at him.

His eyes sparkled, and it was as if he were silently telling me: You deserve all of this. You deserve every bit of love I can give.

When he leaned in, I closed my eyes and let our lips meet. It was breathtaking—intense yet tender, full of sincerity and love. I could feel every ounce of his heart in that kiss.

"I love you," he murmured.

"I love you," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.

He kissed me again, soft, careful, sincere—it reminded me of the first time we kissed as lovers. A wave of nostalgia and warmth swept through me, making my chest ache with longing and gratitude.

When the kiss ended, he let go of my waist and guided me gently through the sea of bouquets.

"Check the notes," he said softly, giving me space as he went to prepare the food we ordered.

Each bouquet held a single type of flower, with three blue roses at the center. Every bouquet had a note explaining why he chose that flower. There were seven large bouquets in total. Some weren't my favorites, but he had made sure to include the ones I loved, tucked carefully in the middle.

I sat on the carpeted floor, leaning back against the sofa, and began reading the notes one by one.

"Lisianthus means lasting love, deep appreciation, and a love that's forever. You're the reason I want to be better every day. The only person I could ever fall for, over and over, for the rest of my life. Yours sincerely, JK."

"Ranunculus means charm and being completely captivated, which is basically me every time you look my way. You still make my heart race like it's day one and I'm not even complaining. Yours submissively, JK."

"Gardenias mean purity, joy, and a love that's true. They also carry the quiet message of deep, devoted feelings. You're my peace and my happiness, and that's certain. Yours forever, JK."