Love or Destiny

Flickers & Feelings

A sharp flicker.

The lights blinked back on.

The elevator jerked slightly, the low hum returning as if nothing had happened.

Jennie stiffened in his arms, blinking at the sudden brightness.

"It's...moving," she whispered.

Yoongi let out a small breath he didn't realize he was holding. "Yeah...looks like we're back."

But neither of them stepped away immediately.

For a brief second longer, they remained exactly where they were. Close, quiet, aware of something unspoken lingering between them.

Then, slowly and reluctantly they pulled apart.

The warm overhead lights cast a gentle glow, reflecting faintly on the mirrored walls.

Yoongi and Jennie stood side by side, closer than usual, but neither dared to acknowledge it. The silence felt heavier in the confined space.

Jennie fidgeted with the hem of her blouse, stealing a quick glance at Yoongi's reflection in the mirror before looking away again.

"So...um," she started, her voice barely above a whisper, almost swallowed by the hum of the elevator. "About that night..."

Yoongi's eyes shifted toward her, meeting her gaze through the mirror before turning slightly. His expression remained calm, unreadable. "Yeah?"

Jennie swallowed, her fingers twisting together nervously. "I...I just wanted to say, I didn't mean to—"

"Ask me out?" he cut in, a faint smirk forming on his lips. "I think you meant exactly what you said. Just...more honest."

Jennie blinked, her cheeks instantly warming. She looked down at the floor, then back at him, unsure whether to step closer or keep her distance.

"I—I just...I don't usually...do things like that," she admitted softly.

Yoongi's gaze softened, the teasing edge fading. "I noticed."

The elevator seemed even smaller when he leaned a little closer, not too much, just enough to make her aware of his presence.

"I like it," he added quietly. "Honest Jennie."

Her lips parted slightly, a shy, nervous smile forming. "You...you like it?"

"I do," he said, his voice low. "And also what you did that night, after asking me out."

Jennie froze for a second, her blush deepening.

Yoongi scratched the back of his neck, suddenly looking a little less composed. "We should...maybe check on the others."

Jennie let out a soft breath, her smile lingering, shy but brighter now.

The tension eased just a little, replaced by something warmer, softer and something neither of them named.

The elevator continued its quiet descent, but for those few moments, it felt like time had slowed, just for them.

────୨ৎ────

The mall buzzed with life.

Bright lights, distant music, and endless chatter filled the air as both groups split into different sections.

The boys had already taken over the men's section.

"Black tux," Jungkook said confidently. "Simple and perfect."

"Agreed," Namjoon nodded. "Let's not overcomplicate things."

Jin stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his collar. "Whatever we wear, I'll still be the most handsome."