2

Jimin leaned across the small, wooden cafe table, his fingers fidgeting with the edge of his sleeve as he studied Jungkook’s forlorn expression. “Jungkook,” he began gently, his voice laced with concern, “did you hear what Mrs. Lee said? You don’t have much time. The December intake is closing soon.”

Jungkook, his head resting heavily on his crossed arms, let out a low, tired sigh. His dark hair fell across his forehead, partially obscuring his eyes, which stared blankly at the table. The faint murmur of the bustling cafe around them seemed a world away.

“You have to clear the test, apply to the university, and then get your visa approved,” Jimin continued, his brow furrowed deeply. “Do you think you can manage all of that in time?”

“I don’t know,” Jungkook murmured, his voice barely audible over the ambient chatter. His fingers traced idle patterns on the wooden surface of the table. “But I have to leave here.”

Jimin’s heart ached for his friend, sensing the weight of the decision pressing down on him. “What about other countries?” he suggested, trying to infuse some hope into the conversation. “Maybe you could apply to Germany, like me. It could be a fresh start.”

Jungkook shook his head, lifting it just enough to lock eyes with Jimin. His gaze was resolute, despite the vulnerability etched across his features. “No,” he said softly but firmly. “London is Gyu’s and my dream. We’ve been planning this for too long.”

Jimin nodded slowly. He knew how much London meant to him, a shared aspiration with someone he held dear. “Then, what’s the plan?” Jimin asked, his voice quieter now, matching the seriousness of the moment.

“I think I should reappear for this week’s test,” Jungkook stated.

“And without further preparation?” Jimin’s concern flared again, his eyes widening slightly. “Are you sure you can make it?”

“I need to, Jimina,” Jungkook replied with a slight smile, using the affectionate nickname as a way to reassure his friend. His fingers brushed the last crumbs of his lunch off the table as he sat up straighter. “I can’t let this chance slip by.”

Jimin watched him for a moment, then nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Alright. If you’re set on it, I’m with you all the way. We’ll figure it out.”

Jungkook’s smile grew a little wider. The two friends stood, collecting their things, and made their way out of the cozy cafe into the cool afternoon air. They walked side by side, the weight of their conversation lingered between them.

As they rounded the next curve on the winding road, Jungkook’s lips curved into a radiant smile. His hand rose to rub the tip of his nose, a nervous habit, as his eyes caught sight of Mingyu leaning casually against his old Royal Enfield. The setting sun casts a warm glow over the scene, highlighting the bike’s worn chrome and Mingyu’s easy stance.

“Seems like I’m walking home alone,” Jimin teased, his voice light as he nudged Jungkook playfully.

“No, no, I’m coming with you,” Jungkook replied quickly, shaking his head. A trace of worry crossed his features. “Mom’s already on edge, and if she sees me with Gyu today… I don’t even want to think about it. She won’t hold back and will go straight to Dad.”

Jimin hummed thoughtfully, understanding the delicate situation as they continued their walk toward Mingyu.

Mingyu straightened as they approached, a smile playing on his lips. “I thought you might stay for extra classes,” he said, retrieving a small pack from the bike’s compartment and handing it to Jungkook. “Mom made this for you.”

Jungkook’s fingers carefully unwrapped the pack, revealing a few neatly arranged fish cakes. His smile widened as he rewrapped it. “I’ll eat them later. We just had lunch,” he said softly.

“Okay. Come on, I’ll drop you near home,” Mingyu offered, his eyes glinting with affection.

“Not today,” Jungkook declined. “I’m in the danger zone already, and I told you how risky it is. Plus, I need to prepare for the test.” His lips formed a soft pout, making Mingyu’s gaze flicker to them momentarily.

“You should take a break, Koo,” Mingyu said, his voice tinged with concern. “I feel bad seeing you work so hard for us while I’m just hanging around.”

“Don’t think like that,” Jungkook reassured him, a gentle smile softening his features. “We need to leave the country soon. Every day, I feel closer to being caught. I don’t even want to imagine how Dad will react when he finds out about us. It’ll be the worst.”

Mingyu sighed, stepping closer and placing a comforting hand on Jungkook’s shoulder. His thumb caressed it gently. Jungkook lowered his gaze, a shy smile tugging at his lips.

“Should I walk ahead?” Jimin asked, breaking the moment with a knowing look.

Jungkook glanced at Mingyu, who nodded subtly. “I’ll catch up soon,” Jungkook replied.

Jimin nodded, turning on his heel and walking ahead, his figure soon blending into the distance.

“So?” Mingyu asked, pulling Jungkook closer to him.

“The writing test is what’s draining me,” Jungkook admitted, his eyes dropping to their interlinked fingers.

Mingyu leaned back slightly, half-seating on his bike. He reached out, gently tucking a stray strand of hair behind Jungkook’s ear. “Once you pass the test, we’ll need to arrange the cash immediately, right?”

Jungkook nodded, his brows knitting together. “I’m worried about that. I can ask Dad for a bit more, but it won’t cover everything. College fees, accommodation, the bank deposit, and all the other expenses… Gyu, it’s overwhelming.”

“Don’t stress,” Mingyu said. “We’ll figure it out. You can get a part-time job once you’re there, and I’ll pick up extra work here. We’ll find a way, together.”

Jungkook hummed in agreement, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly.

“Are you sure I shouldn’t drop you off?” Mingyu asked, concern lacing his voice.

"No." Jungkook shook his head.

“Next week, Mom won’t be home. Will you come over then?” Mingyu asked, his tone softening with hope.

Jungkook hesitated, their eyes meeting.

“I thought we could spend some time together. Just us. Maybe cuddle a bit.”

A smile blossomed on Jungkook’s face, warmth spreading through him. “I’ll let you know,” he said, glancing nervously down the road as he got a glimpse of familiar car. His eyes widened in alarm. “Oh shit, it’s Mom! I have to go.”

He quickly covered his face with his bag, muttering a hurried goodbye. “Bye, I’ll call you later.” He turned and sprinted in the direction Jimin had gone, heart pounding in his chest.

“I love you, Koo,” Mingyu called after him.

“Love you too,” Jungkook whispered back, a soft smile on his lips as he glanced over his shoulder one last time before disappearing down the road, hurrying toward the safety of home.



Mingyu watched Jungkook’s retreating figure with a soft smile lingering on his lips. However, the gentle hum of the evening was interrupted by a firm hand on his shoulder. He turned to see Eunwoo, a familiar grin spread across his friend’s face.

“Oh, Eunwoo,” Mingyu greeted, shifting slightly to face him.

“Lucky you,” Eunwoo teased, his gaze following where Jungkook had disappeared. “Jungkook is such a beauty.”

Mingyu hummed in agreement, a subtle, knowing smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. Without another word, he swung a leg over his Royal Enfield, settling into the seat. Eunwoo mounted the bike behind him, adjusting his grip on Mingyu’s shoulders.

“Drop me near Palace Road,” Eunwoo said, settling into a comfortable position.

Mingyu nodded, revving the engine before the bike rolled down the winding road, the cool evening air brushing against their faces.

“So, how far is your London dream?” Eunwoo asked, his voice carrying over the soft rumble of the engine.

“It’s complicated,” Mingyu admitted. “Jungkook failed the test again. He’s planning to reappear this week.”

“You really need to go?” Eunwoo’s question was tinged with a mix of curiosity and concern.

“Yes,” Mingyu responded firmly. “I have to. I need to escape from this slum.”

Eunwoo hummed in understanding. “Everyone will be happy if that happens. Someone from our colony going abroad.. it’s a success to celebrate.”

Mingyu nodded. “I hope Jungkook passes the test this time. I promised a bunch of flowers and candles to the church.”

Eunwoo tapped his shoulder lightly, reassuring Mingyu. “But what if Jungkook’s parents find out?” Eunwoo asked, a hint of apprehension in his voice.

Mingyu’s expression darkened slightly. “Jungkook’s mother knows about us, and she’s against our relationship. I don’t think his dad knows yet.”

“Hmmm. Will Jungkook really leave everything to go with you? After all, he’s born with a silver spoon,” Eunwoo mused, his voice tinged with skepticism.

“Why should Jungkook leave everything?” Mingyu countered. “I’m the one who’s going with him. This is our dream.”

“But what if Dr. Jeon finds out about you two?” Eunwoo pressed.

“They’ll accept us eventually,” Mingyu said, a confident smile spreading across his face. He believed in the strength of  Jungkook’s love, even if the path was fraught with challenges.

“Anyways, you’re lucky, bro,” Eunwoo remarked, admiration in his tone. “Someone like Jungkook and your London dream… it seems untouchable for the rest of us.”

Mingyu’s smile widened, a mix of hope and determination flickering in his eyes. “Maybe. But dreams are worth chasing, no matter how far they seem.”

With that, the two friends continued down the road, the hum of the engine underscoring their quiet conversation.

Meanwhile, at the Jeon villa, Jungkook wiped the sweat from his forehead as he tiptoed through the front door, his eyes darting around nervously. The house was quiet, and the living room appeared empty, a welcome sight. He exhaled deeply, relief washing over him. Without wasting another moment, he sprinted lightly across the floor, heading towards the stairs.

Just as his foot touched the first step, a firm grip on his collar halted him. He spun around, wide-eyed, to find his mother, Mrs. Jeon, standing behind him with a knowing look.

"Were you standing near that 43rd lane? By the post box?" Mrs. Jeon asked, her gaze sharp and inquisitive.

“Me? No way,” Jungkook said, forcing a nervous chuckle as he straightened his shirt. “I took the other way home.”

Mrs. Jeon narrowed her eyes slightly, studying him. “Hmm. I thought I saw that boy,” she mused.

“Which boy?” Jungkook asked, his voice a little too high-pitched as he feigned innocence.

“Don’t act too smart,” Mrs. Jeon warned, her tone laced with suspicion. “It’s good if it wasn’t you.”

Jungkook offered her his most disarming smile, leaning in to place a quick kiss on her cheek. “Make me a latte, please. I’ll freshen up and come down,” he said, hoping to deflect her attention.

“Aren’t you the one who’s going to be a chef?” Mrs. Jeon quipped, raising an eyebrow.

“Yes, but I’ve got time. This time, you make it,” Jungkook replied with a cheeky grin, skipping up the stairs two at a time to his room before she could question him further.

Mrs. Jeon watched him go, a small smile playing on her lips. She shook her head, muttering to herself about how much of a handful her son could be, before heading to the kitchen to prepare his latte.

Once inside his room, Jungkook smiled to himself, the tension from earlier melting away. He dropped his bag onto the bed, eagerly retrieving the paper-wrapped package from within. He brought it to his nose, inhaling the familiar, comforting aroma.

Carefully, he unwrapped one of the fish cakes and took a bite, savoring the taste. His smile deepened as he wrapped the rest of the fish cakes back up, tucking the package safely under his cot for later.

With a satisfied sigh, Jungkook moved to the bathroom for a quick shower. The warm water washed away the day's stress, leaving him refreshed and more focused. He soon emerged, dressed comfortably, and made his way to his study table.

He took a deep breath as his eyes landed on the scattered textbooks and notes, the weight of his upcoming test pressing on his mind. Without wasting another moment, he pulled out his chair, sat down, and began pouring over the material. His pen flew across the pages as he scribbled notes, determined to grasp every concept and ace the test this time.

The room was silent except for the soft rustling of papers and the faint scratching of Jungkook’s pen. Lost in his studies, he didn’t notice how quickly time had slipped by. The latte his mother had placed on his desk sat untouched, the steam long since vanished. As he stretched his arms over his head, a soft yawn escaped his lips. Glancing outside, he realized it was already night. He closed his books, ready to crawl into bed, when a sound drew his attention.

Curious, Jungkook moved toward the window, but he was startled when a hand gripped the window rail.

“Boww…”

Jungkook gasped. “Ah! Seriously, Gyu!” he scolded, placing a hand over his chest to calm his racing heart.

“Did you sleep, my beautiful?” Mingyu asked with a sheepish smile, balancing himself by the window.

Jungkook scrunched his nose, rubbing the tip lightly. “How many times have I told you not to drink and drive?” he admonished, turning his face away with a frown. He sat by the window, his expression softening slightly.

“I couldn’t sleep without seeing you,” Mingyu admitted, his voice tinged with a mix of affection and mischief.

“Is that why you drank?” Jungkook asked, his tone more amused than scolding.

Mingyu chuckled, reaching out to gently caress Jungkook’s head. “Were you studying?” he inquired, his fingers brushing through Jungkook's hair.

Jungkook hummed in response. “My baby,” Mingyu murmured, a warm smile playing on his lips.

“Don’t call me those sweet names,” Jungkook protested, his cheeks tinged pink.

“Jungkook,” Mingyu called, his voice more serious now, prompting Jungkook to turn and meet his gaze. “I love you.”

A soft smile spread across Jungkook’s face. “I know,” he replied quietly.

“What if your dad doesn’t accept us?” Mingyu asked, his voice laced with concern.

“We’ll talk to him,” Jungkook assured.

“And if I drink again?” Mingyu teased.

“I’ll kick you,” Jungkook laughed.

“What if someone comes between us?” Mingyu asked, his voice dropping to a whisper.

“Nobody’s going to come between us,” Jungkook said firmly.

“Just think, what if you find someone more handsome and rich in London?” Mingyu joked, though his eyes searched Jungkook’s for reassurance.

“Nobody can match my boy’s freak,” Jungkook replied, pinching Mingyu’s nose playfully.

Mingyu smiled, pressing a kiss to Jungkook’s fingertips. “What if…” Mingyu began again, but Jungkook stopped him, placing a hand over his lips.

“You’re overthinking. Go home safely. It won’t end well if Dad catches you like this,” Jungkook warned gently.

“Hmm. So, I should go?” Mingyu asked.

Jungkook nodded. “Will I get a kiss before I leave?” Mingyu asked, pouting endearingly.

Jungkook laughed, leaning against the window rail. He was about to press his lips to Mingyu’s when his mother’s voice suddenly boomed in the room.

“You haven’t drunk the coffee?” Mrs. Jeon asked, standing in the doorway.

Jungkook’s eyes widened in shock as he spun around to face her. He blinked rapidly, trying to appear casual. “What?” she asked, her eyes narrowing.

“Mm? Ah. N-nothing. I was just closing the windows,” he said hurriedly, closing the curtains in one swift motion. He walked nervously toward his bed.

“Aren’t you drinking this?” Mrs. Jeon asked, eyeing the untouched latte.

“Mm? But it’s cold now,” Jungkook replied, laying comfortably on the bed. Just then a flying pencil pouch hit him squarely in the chest. “Ouch! I’ll drink it,” he said quickly, jumping up and rushing to the table. He downed the latte in a few gulps and handed the cup back to her.

Mrs. Jeon nodded in satisfaction and left the room, turning off the light behind her.

In the quiet darkness, Jungkook walked to the window, his bare feet padding softly against the floor. He pulled back the curtain slightly, peering into the night. The street was empty, the soft hum of the distant city the only sound. He looked around, hoping to catch a glimpse of Mingyu, but there was no trace of him.

"I hope you reach home safe, Gyu," Jungkook whispered, his breath fogging the cool glass as his gaze lingered on the spot where Mingyu had stood just moments before.

With a sigh, he let the curtain fall back into place, the room once again cloaked in shadow. He turned away from the window, and climbed into bed. The lingering hope that he and Mingyu would soon be together in a place where their love could be free kept him warm at night.

A week passed in a blur for Jungkook. The days were a monotonous cycle of test preparation, leaving little room for anything else. His world had shrunk to the confines of his room, where the black printed letters in his textbooks became his only companions. Every waking hour was consumed by study, the weight of his dreams pressing heavily on his shoulders.

During this time, Jimin's news of receiving his visa to Germany struck Jungkook with a pang of bittersweet emotions. While he was genuinely happy for his friend, it also deepened his own sense of inadequacy. Yet, he took Jimin's success as a source of inspiration, channeling his sadness into a fierce determination to excel. He threw himself into his studies with renewed vigor, desperate to make his dream a reality.

Finally, the day he had been preparing for arrived. Jungkook sat for the test, his heart pounding in his chest. He poured every ounce of effort into it, hoping it would be enough.

The next week was a grueling wait, filled with anxiety and sleepless nights. The result loomed over him like a dark cloud, casting a shadow over his every thought. His stress was palpable, and seeing him so tense, his grandmother decided to take him to her sister's home, hoping a change of scenery might provide some relief.

At her sister’s home, Jungkook found a small reprieve from his worries. The quiet countryside and the gentle presence of his grandmother offered a soothing balm to his frayed nerves. Yet, even in the serene surroundings, his mind remained tethered to the impending result. He barely saw Mingyu during this time, their usual rendezvous replaced by fleeting text messages and quick phone calls.

The day of the result finally came. Jungkook sat in front of the computer, his hands trembling as he opened the page. His heart sank as he read the words: he had failed the speaking test just by one point. The disappointment hit him like a tidal wave, leaving him numb. His world, which had been filled with hope and anticipation, crumbled around him.

The following week was a dark one for Jungkook. He retreated into his room, the weight of failure suffocating him. He barely ate, spoke, or acknowledged anyone. His parents watched helplessly, unsure of how to console their son.

Jimin, ever the supportive friend, visited frequently, bringing messages of encouragement from Mingyu and trying to lift Jungkook's spirits. But Jungkook was inconsolable. He refused Jimin’s invitations to hang out or even accompany him for shopping, isolating himself in his grief.

Jungkook’s room became a sanctuary of sorrow, where he mourned the loss of his dream. The textbooks that once held the promise of a brighter future now seemed like mockery. Each day blurred into the next, filled with silent tears and an overwhelming sense of despair.

"Jungkook, how long are you going to stay locked up in this room?" Mrs. Jeon asked softly, her voice laced with concern as she stepped closer to her son. "Come on, Dad said we should go out to a movie."

Jungkook shook his head, his fingers lazily tracing an unknown pattern on the pillow beneath him. His eyes were distant, lost in a world of his own, the weight of his recent failure still heavy on his heart.

Mrs. Jeon sighed gently, trying a different approach. "Alright then, why don't you go spend some time with Jimin? You haven't seen much of him lately."

Jungkook remained silent, merely laying his head down on the pillow. His mother watched him with a mixture of worry and affection, her fingers tenderly caressing his slightly long hair. She exchanged a glance with her husband, who was quietly lingering in the doorway, sharing her concern.

"Jimin's leaving in two weeks, Jungkook," Mrs. Jeon added, hoping to stir some response. This time, Jungkook hummed faintly, a barely audible acknowledgment.

Mrs. Jeon sighed again, understanding that pushing too hard wouldn't help. "Jimin said he'll be here in a little while. Go on and get ready. We'll all go to the cinema and then have dinner out," she suggested, hoping the prospect of spending time with his friend might lift his spirits.

With that, she left Jungkook alone in his room, closing the door softly behind her. Jungkook nuzzled deeper into his pillow, the soft fabric offering a small comfort. The thought of Jimin leaving tugged at his heart, but the weight of his own disappointment still held him back.

The room fell into a gentle silence, save for the faint sounds of life moving on beyond his door. Slowly, he closed his eyes, letting the quietness wash over him as he tried to gather the strength to face the world outside once more.

After some time, Jungkook heard the soft creak of his door opening. He glanced up to see Jimin stepping inside, his arms loaded with a few shopping bags.

"These are from your boyfriend," Jimin said, plopping the bags onto the bed with a small huff. "He’s going crazy because you’re holed up in here like a hermit."

Jungkook didn’t respond, simply pouting as he remained seated on the bed, his fingers tracing idle patterns on the fabric. His silence didn’t deter Jimin, who planted his hands on his hips and raised an eyebrow.

"Have you looked at yourself lately?" Jimin asked, concern laced in his voice. "You look terrible. Those eye bags are getting out of control."

Jungkook gave a half-hearted shrug, his gaze fixed on the floor. Jimin sighed, sitting down beside him and nudging him lightly. "Jungkook, this isn’t the end of the world. You can reapply, or you could even consider applying to my university in Germany. They have great culinary courses."

"I don’t want to," Jungkook mumbled, turning his head away, his voice barely above a whisper.

"You’re really testing my patience," Jimin said, shaking his head in frustration. "At least look at what your boyfriend got you."

Reluctantly, Jungkook reached for the nearest bag and pulled out a small teddy bear and a box of chocolates, his favorites. He held them for a moment, a ghost of a smile flickering across his face before fading. He moved on to the next bag, which revealed several tiffin boxes filled with snacks he loved.

"If you keep this up, you’re going to turn into a panda," Jimin teased, gesturing to Jungkook’s dark circles and the mountain of snacks. "Dark circles and all these treats? You’ll be rolling around like a ball soon."

Jungkook gave a weak chuckle but quickly returned to his sullen demeanor. He began putting everything back into the bags, his movements slow and deliberate.

"Okay, listen," Jimin said, turning to face him fully. "I’ve been thinking about you all week, and I’ve come up with an idea. It might sound a bit out there, but hear me out."

Jungkook’s interest piqued slightly, though his eyes remained downcast. "What is it?" he asked softly.

Jimin took a deep breath. "How about you marry my brother?"

The room fell into a stunned silence. Jungkook stared at Jimin as if he had just grown a second head. "My head is already hurting too bad." he finally managed to say, his voice laced with annoyance.

"I know it sounds crazy," Jimin admitted quickly. "But think about it. My brother works in the UK, has citizenship there, and could easily help you get over there."

Jungkook frowned, his mind whirling. "But... Gyu..." he trailed off.

"You can take him once you get your own visa," Jimin explained. "Our priority is to get you there first, right?"

Jungkook nodded slowly, still grappling with the idea. "I wouldn’t want to marry anyone but Gyu," he whispered.

"Cool. Then you can sit here and cry while I leave," Jimin said, standing up dramatically. He was halfway from the bed when Jungkook grabbed his hand.

"Wait," Jungkook said, his grip tightening. "How would we explain this to our families? And what about your brother? Would he even agree to something like this?"

Jimin shrugged. "We can script a whole drama for the family. As for my brother, well, that’s something we’d have to work on."

Jungkook sighed, rubbing his temples. "This sounds so complicated."

"Nothing worthwhile comes easy," Jimin pointed out. "Sometimes, you have to take risks to get what you want."

Jungkook hummed, his mind still racing with doubts. "I don’t know. I need to talk to Gyu about this."

"That’s fair," Jimin said, clapping him on the shoulder. "But first, let’s go to the cinema. Uncle agreed to watch Barbie with us, and he promised to get me a pair of sneakers afterward."

Jungkook hesitated, glancing at the bags and then back at Jimin. Slowly, he nodded, feeling a small spark of normalcy return. "Okay," he said softly, standing up. "Let’s go."

The Jeon family, along with Jimin, made their way to the cinema, the atmosphere light and filled with a sense of relief. Mr. Jeon smiled as he watched Jungkook eagerly grab his favorite bucket of popcorn, his eyes bright with excitement, a stark contrast to the past few weeks.

"He’s just like you, a bit too dramatic," Mrs. Jeon teased her husband, nudging him gently.

Mr. Jeon chuckled, draping his arm around his wife's shoulder. "Well, at least he’s out of the house now." With that the family went inside the theatre.

As the previews ended, the family took their seats, the room dimming as the movie began. The vibrant colors of Barbie filled the screen, captivating the audience. Jungkook settled into his seat, allowing himself a rare moment of relaxation.

Halfway through the film, Jungkook felt the seat beside him shift. Startled, he turned to see Mingyu quietly slipping into the chair. His heart skipped a beat.

"You look like that.. a living Barbie," Mingyu whispered with a soft smile, his eyes never leaving Jungkook.

Jungkook's eyes widened in surprise. "Gyu... what are you doing here?" he whispered back, glancing quickly at his parents, who were engrossed in the movie.

"I’ve been waiting to see you," Mingyu said softly. "I missed you, Jungkook."

A wave of guilt washed over Jungkook. "I’m sorry. I couldn’t face you. I... I feel like I failed us," he admitted, his voice trembling.

Mingyu's hand found Jungkook’s, their fingers intertwining. "Don’t say that. You didn’t fail us," he reassured him.

Jungkook’s gaze darted nervously to his parents again before returning to Mingyu. "I need to tell you something," he said, his voice barely audible.

Mingyu squeezed his hand gently. "Is it about the plan Jimin mentioned? He already told me," Mingyu said, his tone calm.

"I’m nervous, Gyu. It sounds so... absurd," Jungkook confessed, his brow furrowed with worry.

"It doesn’t have to be," Mingyu replied. "It’s Jimin’s brother we’re talking about. He’ll understand. He’s family."

Jungkook hesitated, doubt clouding his expression. "You really think so?"

Mingyu nodded confidently. "Yes. Especially because it’s Jimin’s brother. He’ll support us."

"But it feels wrong. I’m not sure if it’s the right thing to do," Jungkook murmured.

"You’re overthinking it," Mingyu said softly. "Focus on us. This plan can help us avoid a lot of unnecessary hurdles, like the bank deposit part. We can save that money."

Jungkook looked down at their hands, his thumb tracing slow circles on Mingyu’s skin. "It still feels strange."

"It’s not ideal for me either," Mingyu admitted. "But do we have any other option? We just need to try. The marriage part is just on paper. You’ll be there for your studies, and soon, I’ll join you. We’ll make our dreams come true together."

"You really believe that?" Jungkook asked, his voice laced with uncertainty.

"I do," Mingyu said, lifting Jungkook’s hand and placing a gentle kiss on his knuckles. "We’ll get through this together."

Jungkook sighed, a faint smile forming on his lips. His eyes flicked back to the screen, the vibrant colors reflecting in his gaze. "Alright," he whispered, leaning into Mingyu’s touch.

..to be continued..

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