dropping by here to say thank you to everyone who sent me their sweet messages about the love is... on tour 🤍 i'm so so so happy that a lot of you are still enjoying the series, just like how much i love writing it. i may not be able to update much or reply to your messages but know that i read it all and yes, i do have plans of writing more about popstar and bassist!yoongi. for now, i'm currently focused on my internship and getting that degree in a couple of months. so i really didn't have much time to sit down and just write 🥲
anyway, thank you for filling my inbox with love! i appreciate how nice and understanding you all are of my inactivity 🥹 your messages meant a lot 💗
In honor of this account’s name, the first recommendation list will be dedicated to the love of my life, aka Min Yoongi. I read many of these fics a long time ago, but I could NEVER forget them, and honestly, I think that’s enough promotion on its own.
P.S. Besides the summary, I usually add a little review after each fic because duh, authors always deserve extra love and appreciation.
One-shots:
PRETTY GIRLS LIE PRETTY by @kikiskook
Summary: What if your girlfriend’s pissy friend didn’t want to steal you away? What if he just wanted to fuck the goodness out of you? And what if you let him?
Review: This one is kind of my guilty pleasure. Why? Because the main plot revolves around cheating. I KNOW, I KNOW IT’S BAD, BUT I CAN’T HELP IT, IT’S JUST TOO WELL WRITTEN. Blame Kiki for being such a good writer tbh. There isn’t a huge amount of plot here—it’s mostly smut with a bit of storyline—but it feels super well balanced, and the chemistry between the protagonists is insanely good. Like, I’m not even that big of a smut reader, and this story still had me completely hooked.
CALLING... PRODUCER MIN YOONGI by @bangtan-dreamland
Summary: The first time you call him, it's two in the morning.
Review: Guys, when I tell you this has been my favorite read of the year, I’m not exaggerating. It’s the sweetest thing I’ve read in MONTHS (at least when it comes to Yoongi lol). It’s honestly hard to find fics that don’t revolve entirely around smut, so finding this one-shot that’s just pure fluff, love, and the softest Yoongi ever was SO exciting. The story doesn’t really have a summary, but it’s basically about Reader calling a random number (cough cough Yoongi cough cough), and they end up building a relationship entirely through texts and phone calls—no pictures, no meeting each other, just their voices and messages and UGHH IT’S SO ROMANTIC GUYS AHHHH— Genuinely one of the best things you could read if you just want something sweet and romantic.
CAT-ASTROPHE by @dumpywrites
Summary: Your pet cat keeps going to your neighbor’s apartment and it’s a problem.
Review: This is actually a two-shot, but since it’s only two parts, I decided to include it here sjddjajd. Just like the previous one, it’s SOOO cute—like, I remember literally giggling and kicking my feet while reading it. The first part doesn’t have smut, BUT! The second one does. I totally recommend reading both, their relationship is incredibly sweet, and there’s also a cat involved (which is funny considering Yoongi has a cat just like the one described in the story lol). Cat + Yoongi = happiness.
Series:
THE 25TH HOUR by @jungkoode
Summary: "Everything freezes at 1:59 AM. You're not supposed to be awake, yet here you are—and so is Min Yoongi, looking at you with years of something you can't remember in his eyes. Your body knows him. Your mind doesn't. And you have exactly 60 minutes to figure out why."
Review: I know most people here already know Kiki, I know, I know, BUT! No one gives this series enough recognition. Like, it genuinely deserves so much more visibility and love than it gets (I’m a loyal defender of any fic involving mint Yoongi and sci-fi). Kiki is one of the best fanfic writers I’ve ever come across, reading her fics genuinely feels like an experience of its own, and this series proves it perfectly. I don’t want to say too much about the story because I feel like almost anything could count as a spoiler in this case, but I promise it’s absolutely worth it!
LOVE IS... ON TOUR by @httpknjoon
Summary: Tell everyone you know, Love Is… On Tour! Popstar!YN is set to start her sophomore world tour with her new hit songs, sparkly outfits, and talented live band. There are 352 days of this tour, which means 352 days of YN and her new bassist, Yoongi getting on each other’s skin in every way possible.
Review: When I tell you I was obsessed with this series, I mean it VERY seriously. I LOVE bassist/guitarist Yoongi, it genuinely makes me lose my mind with excitement. Band Yoongi? I’m completely sold every single time. So finding this fic, with a protagonist whose whole vibe revolves around Sabrina’s discography? Pure gold. This series is so fun to read, it has sweet moments, angst moments (dude, during the last episodes I was literally biting my nails and praying for an update to save the situation lol), and tension too (OBVIOUSLY). They’re one of my favorite couples ever, and I’m sure that if you give them a chance, they’ll become yours too <3
HOT AND BOTHERED by @ktownshizzle
Summary: You’re horny af one night so you login to your fave hook-up app for a quick fix. You match with Min Yoongi, expecting a cocky rapper with a filthy mouth, but instead, you get a soft-spoken man in a designer shirt and a gummy smile. He keeps asking you out, but there’s no kiss, no sex, nothing. Each date winds you up tighter than the last, your patience (and your lingerie) hanging by a thread, and now you can’t tell what’ll snap first: his restraint or your self-control.
Review: The things I felt for this Yoongi should genuinely not be considered normal, and I mean that very seriously. In general, I absolutely love the Yoongis K writes because UGHH I LOVE THEM, THEY’RE PERFECT, but this one? This one completely got me. Like, I’m genuinely not someone who goes back to reread fics more than once, but with this one I’ve reread at least three chapters just because of Yoongi. What can I say? Gentlemanly men who don’t kiss their date on the first date have a chokehold on me.
LOUD & CLEAR by @/ktownshizzle
Summary: Worst thing just happened to you, actually. You accidentally play a sexy audiobook out loud in the office. Thankfully, everyone assumes you just put someone on speaker. But things get complicated when you discover that the voice everyone heard might belong to the aloof IT guy at work… who happens to live a double life as Agust D, your favorite erotica narrator.
Review: If the previous one had me on my knees because of how sweet it was, this one has me on my knees because of how absolutely hot it is. First of all, the plot is incredible. The moment I read it, I immediately ran to catch up on all the published chapters because, duh, Yoongi reading books with that voice??? I’d pay for that too, you know? Anyway, I’m completely hooked on this story and I seriously can’t wait to read more of this couple (because yes, I'm here for reader too, she's an absolute sweetheart, she’s perfect, I adore her).
plot | Once upon a time, there was a crowd-favorite crown princess who found herself romantically involved with a famous rockstar. See how they will try to navigate the world and maybe live happily ever after.
w.c | 6.5k
genres | angst, fluff, modern royalty!au, celebrity!au, established relationship!au
pairing | rockstar!jungkook x princess!reader
note | still inactive ig. just posting what has been in my drafts for so long. have a nice day!
main masterlist | series masterlist | spotify playlist
EXCERPT FROM THE INTERVIEW
“I’m like that one cousin your parents use as the good example.”
When asked about her achievements, Her Majesty tried to stay humble. Before she was even crowned as Zafiro’s youngest leader, Queen YN has been bagging one award after the other with her excellence in working for her advocacy for children's welfare. She has been known to speak out and provide aid for children in need worldwide, going beyond the lands of Zafiro.
“My parents, especially my mom, always encouraged me to do my best in everything, setting me up to be a good example not just for Astrid, but also to the young kids of Zafiro,” she smiled. “I swear, when I meet young people, it can lead to two things: one, they will express their admiration, citing me as an inspiration– which I am honored for. Or two, they will jokingly complain to me about how much their parents used me to pressure them to do better in school or in life generally.”
In 20XX, back when Her Majesty was still a princess, she graduated from the University of Zafiro with her second bachelor’s degree. She was only twenty years old at the time. When she posted about the event at the time, she included a joking caption, saying, “Off to get my third bachelor’s. See you in the next semester! #Classof20XX”. Netizens from Zafiro began trending #StopPrincessYN as a joke, citing their difficulties with being pressured by their parents whenever they are compared to the young royalty.
“It was truly hilarious,” Queen YN chuckled, shaking her head. “But that is just me. I love studying. I love learning new things. I didn’t mean to be the poster child for the perfect child– I know I’m not.”
I laughed at the Queen’s joke. “But didn’t you also learn how to ride big bikes?”
In her last year of being a princess, in the midst of her most buzzing year, Queen YN was staying in Los Angeles, California, when she was photographed driving a classic Harley-Davidson Cruiser. It caused surprise for everyone as she swapped her usual formal dresses for a large, black leather jacket and halter tops with bell-bottom jeans. It was one of the rare moments when the royalty was seen more carefree. Some people in the media even refer to that time of her life as “her year of rebellion”.
Queen YN lets out an awkward chuckle, “Ah, yes. After I had my first motorcycle ride when I was in my early 20s, I liked how it felt so free to drive around places with air blowing through my hair. So I asked a friend to teach me how to ride one.”
The said friend in her statement has been long-rumored to be the Sweet September’s main vocalist, Jungkook. They have been the subject of gossip and rumors during “her year of rebellion”. Although never confirmed, the then-Princess YN and the rockstar have been witnessed interacting both online and offline by many people a lot of times. They were never photographed together, just seen arriving and leaving the same places almost at the same time. The pair never commented about it.
“Do you still ride them?” I asked, out of curiosity.
A faint smile formed on her lips as she softly shook her head, “I don’t. I sold my bike back in LA before… I left everything behind there before moving back here.”
“Honey, attending such an event is not part of your itinerary…”
Your mom’s worried tone from your phone echoed in your New York hotel bathroom as you got ready for Sweet September’s concert tonight. After tying your hair in a half ponytail with your white silk ribbon, you tried to curl the ends of your hair with your fingers.
It has been a day since Jungkook invited you to their concert tonight. Since it was not part of your agenda, you decided to ask Natasha to shop for your clothes since you can’t really go out due to virtual commitments. That’s how you ended up with bell-bottom jeans and a long-sleeved knitted red top. She also got you high-top Converse, a baseball cap, and a large leather jacket. She says that with this outfit, you will just mix in with the crowd perfectly. But you cannot help but see your younger sister in you with this much edgier outfit.
“I know, I know, Mom. But the band personally invited me,” you replied before looking at the camera to see your mom sipping from her morning tea. It’s only six o’clock in there while you’re out there going to a late-night, last-minute show. “They are great performers. Astrid and I enjoyed their concert when they went to Zafiro.”
Even though you are already a grown adult, with your own title and a long list of responsibilities, you still have to talk with your parents before doing something. And that’s what you are doing right now. You would usually go straight to your dad. He is strict, but your mom’s stricter. You tried talking to him initially, but he’s busy with meetings. So you reached out to The Queen to let her know about the concert.
She squinted her eyes, “A personal invite from the band? How so?”
You paused, “Oh… Uhm… I had a chat with their vocalist last night at the Gala. We already met before that.”
“And can I know the name of this vocalist we’re talking about?”
The image of Jungkook kissing your hand last night suddenly played in your head, unknowingly putting a slight smile on your face.
"Jungkook.”
Then, a noise from your mother’s background snapped you back into reality. A thin line formed on your lips as you waited for a reaction from your mother. But she just looked at you for a minute. Like she was examining you, you can feel her gaze on you even though she’s on the other side of the world.
“YN…” she called for you in a specific tone that made your shoulders tense up.
“Mom,” you sighed. “I’m not dating him. I’m sure I’m not the only one who gets personal invites from him.”
“That’s great to know, honey. I know you’re smart enough with your decisions, including who to date.” She paused for a moment, giving you that familiar look. “You know how we would always want the best partner for you, as you will be leading Zafiro in the future.”
Your jaw tightened as you tried to focus on running the mascara through your lashes. Your shoulders suddenly bore this hefty weight. The same weight you feel every time you put a crown on your head. You tried to ignore it, clearing your throat before you spoke,
“Anyway, Mom, I’ll keep my attendance lowkey. Okay?” You plumped your lips before smiling at her. “I promise, no one would even notice I was there.”
“Okay,” she smiled, causing you relief. “Nat’s coming with you?”
“Yes, I got two tickets. We’ll probably wear shades too just to avoid so many eyes,” you shared as the tension between you two boils down.
To hear her chuckle is a confirmation that your mother is now cool with you attending, “That’s great. But don’t wear it inside the arena, it’s weird.”
You laughed at that, “Yes, mom.”
“Okay, I should go now. I have to attend this early event in your old prep school, and I still have to prepare,” she mumbled. “At least, enjoy tonight, okay? But don’t be reckless and miss your flight later!
“I won’t,” you smiled softly.
“Bye, baby,” she waves.
“Bye, mama.”
Silence lingers in your room as you stare at yourself in the mirror. It was your first time seeing yourself in such clothes and make-up. You followed your assistant’s advice to use a darker shade of red for your lips and darker eyeshadow for your lids. You cannot help but smile. It’s nice to see another version of yourself in clothes you rarely wear. You thought that wearing a more fitted, slightly cropped top and baggy jeans would make you feel uncomfortable, like you’re wearing someone else’s clothes. But it didn’t. It’s comfortable and liberating. It’s making you wonder that in another universe, where you are not a royal princess, just a normal girl in a normal suburb, is this how you’re going to look like?
Usually, riding alone at the back of the car, you sit straight as your assistant sits in the front with your driver/bodyguard. Your posture never breaks while your eyes watch outside your tinted window, curious about the people who usually rub shoulders with each other in the bus or the train. You always wondered what it feels like to sit in a crowded bus. No low-key bodyguards behind you or movements to determine if it’s safe or not.
But tonight felt different.
Although you are still being driven to the arena for the concert, you feel less restricted. You leaned back in your seat, letting your leather jacket crinkle around your shoulders. There is this churning feeling in your stomach, knowing that you are going to see him tonight. You looked at your fingers, the ones he kissed gently last night. A smile spread across your lips.
Suddenly, you felt like rolling down your window, letting the cool air blow on your face. Natasha and James, your bodyguard, didn’t say anything as they watched you in the rearview mirror. Royalty protocol does not really allow you to ride in cars or any transportation with open windows. But tonight, they can keep it as a secret from the King and Queen. They are only a couple of years older than you, so they definitely understand you, even if you won’t admit anything out loud. You just opened your windows anyway. You didn’t stick your head out or something. Natasha quietly looked at James and simply smiled at him.
The wind was cold against your skin, but it was the kind of cold that made you feel alive. The city lights blurred as the car sped through the streets. You closed your eyes for a moment, breathing it in. The world felt alive, not so static compared to the places you would grace your presence in.
Just for that time, you felt like a normal, nameless young lady. You were not someone’s daughter, just a girl in the back of the car, with an unexpectedly cozy leather jacket, excited to attend a free concert,
“James, are you sure you don’t want to join us tonight?” you asked when you spotted the arena and the small groups of people walking towards it. You rolled the windows back up.
James chuckled, shaking his head in the rearview mirror. “I’d rather keep my job, Your Highness.”
Natasha grinned, looking back at you with a smirk. “He’s an old guy, hates rock music. But he’ll be outside, Your Highness.”
You chuckled at that. The car pulled up near a secret entrance, almost at the back of the arena, the one Jungkook instructed you to pull up in. Fans were already crowding over the main entrance. You catch Natasha’s eyes on you in the rearview mirror, you nod,
“Let’s go?”
“Enjoy, just let me know if anything happens,” James looked sternly at your assistant before softening his gaze to you. “Please, enjoy, your Royal Highness.”
You smiled softly, “Thank you, James.”
Natasha adjusted her jacket and stepped out first, scanning the empty area that led to the back entrance. You have yet to come out of the car. You looked at your phone, second-guessing whether you should message Jungkook in your secret account to let him know about your arrival. But he’s probably preparing for the show. So–
jungkook.97
hey :))
are u there?
tara will meet u outside for your passes
Your heart skipped as you got the notification. Suddenly, you see a familiar woman jogging out of the entrance. It’s their manager, Tara, holding the lanyards in her hands. She talks to your assistant as you slip out of the car, pulling the cap lower over your face.
“Good evening, Your Highness,” she bowed. “It’s nice to see you again.”
You smiled before offering your hand for a shake, “It’s nice to see you again, and please, you can address me by my name. I think it would cause less trouble for all of us than the long title.”
Natasha and Tara both chuckled at that. For Tara, this isn’t the first time Jungkook made her run around before the show to give passes to his personal guests. But it was usually his family and friends– not a royal princess from another country. So even though Jungkook didn’t really specify why and how he got you to go here, she called up for extra tickets for you.
Tara smiled politely, lowering her voice. “Of course, YN.” She handed over the lanyards, which you two immediately wore on your necks. “These passes should get you through the back corridors and backstage. I’ll guide you to your section and the guys will also meet you after the show.”
You nodded, fingers brushing over the words of ALL-ACCESS BACKSTAGE PASS on the laminated passes. “Thank you, Tara. I really appreciate this.”
She returned the smile, a knowing glint in her eye. “Jungkook said to make sure you get in safely.”
Something about hearing his name from someone else sent a flutter through your chest. You tried not to smile, but failed miserably. “He didn’t have to.”
Natasha raised a brow, speaking next to you. “He wanted to,”
You shot her a look, which she just replied to with a teasing smirk. Tara led the two of you down the quiet corridor, the hum of speakers and low rumble of instruments growing stronger the further you walked. The air smelled faintly unfamiliar of metal and floor polish. You had attended operas, galas, and orchestral recitals. But this… this was different. It was messy and loud, unlike the jazz concerts you went to.
Tara glanced over her shoulder. “This way, please.”
You followed, trying to quiet the racing of your pulse. You weren’t sure if it was because of the crowd’s energy bleeding through the walls, or because you were about to see him perform again. The first and last time you watched him and his band was months ago in your home country. You can still remember the buzzing feeling you got while watching him sing, sway his head, and basically get sweaty (and more attractive) on stage. It’s embarrassing.
“Are you sure you don’t want to be in the standing pit? I can still pull some strings for you guys.” Tara asked as she led you and Nat to your seats.
You gently shook your head, “No, we’re fine here. It’s less crowded, I guess.”
Jungkook offered you the closest spots on the stage last night, but you kindly declined. Standing pits mean more people, which can also mean more recognition from people and less safety for you. Your parents would panic if you picked that spot. So, Jungkook got you the second most comfortable and best spots: the floor seats.
“Okay then. Natasha has my number, so if you guys need anything, just contact me,” she smiles. “Also, after the show, you guys can meet me in the hallway we passed through, so you can meet the boys.”
Tara gave one last smile before disappearing backstage, leaving you and Natasha to settle into your seats. The arena was already humming with low chatter and rustling fabric, the crowd’s energy alive. Everyone is ready for the show to start. Astrid would have loved to be here tonight. Your little sister instantly expressed her little jealousy that you got to attend both the Met Gala and the concert tonight while she struggles with the flu back in Zafiro. You bring out your phone from your pocket, turn on the camera to take a quick 360-view of the venue, and send the short clip to your sister.
To Dee-dee
here at the garden!
[insert clip]
i miss u <3
Knowing that she is probably still resting in her room right now, your little sister was quick to reply before you could even slide your phone back into your pockets. Her replies made you smile as soon as you read them.
From Dee-dee
i miss u too yn </3
[insert voicemail of justin bieber’s that should be me]
fuck this flu 😤😤😤
i wanna watch tooooooo
can u livestream
To Dee-dee
i think that’s illegal, d
but don’t worry i’ll take clips
i’m with nat btw :))
[insert selfie with nat]
From Dee-dee
i know mom told me
i’m sure she helped u with ur outfit
mom said u looked different
You didn’t know if that last text was something positive. Different is a confusing word. It can be good… or bad, especially when it comes from your mother. You wanted to think that maybe it was the former, but you cannot stop your brain from thinking that your mom probably hated what you were wearing when she saw you in the call earlier. You kept your head low, the brim of your cap shielding your face, pursing your lips as you stared at your screen. Then, another text popped up.
From Dee-dee
i’m sure u are the gorg queen that u are
anw enjoy the night 4 me
love uuuu
You smiled, trying to ease the tension you felt.
To Dee-dee
love u more. get some sleep ok? 💙
You locked your phone and slipped it back into your jacket pocket, glancing around the growing sea of people. You sat in the farthest seat in your row, so you have the metal concert railing on your left and Natasha on the right. The arena lights dimmed slightly, the buzz in the air sharpening into something electric. Somewhere above, the massive screen flashed with the Sweet September logo, and the crowd’s cheers instantly swelled.
This has been your second time attending their concert, yet you can still feel your heart pounding for so many reasons.
Natasha leaned close. “Are you excited? You haven’t stopped smiling since we got here.”
You blinked, instantly lowering your head again. “Was I?”
She smirked. “You were.”
You chuckled, fingers brushing the fabric of your jeans. “I just… didn’t expect to feel this excited.”
“Well,” she said, eyes on the stage, “you did get a personal invite from the man himself.”
You didn’t respond, though the thought made warmth crawl up your neck.
Suddenly, the arena went completely dark. The screams rose to a deafening pitch, echoing off every wall. You felt the vibration under your feet, like the ground itself was alive. Red spotlights began to pulse across the stage. A single beat kicked through the speakers, and the crowd roared louder.
Then, lights flashed along to the beat of the drums, matching the screams. As if you cannot contain whatever you’re feeling, you chew on your lower lip.
Then, it went pitch black again. A mic’s high-pitched noise is heard, then taps on the mic fill the arena.
Someone cleared their throat, “Hello, mic test.”
The cheers went louder.
Red lights on the stage.
You see them.
Him.
“Welcome to the Denim Jungle!”
You didn’t know you like when a man groans. Now that Jungkook did it in front of thousands of people, you can confirm that you liked it.
Dressed in black from head to toe, a glint of metal hanging from his ear, the microphone gripped loosely in his hand. The cheers nearly drowned out the opening chords of the first song, but it didn’t matter. His voice sliced right through the noise. Smooth, powerful, and alive.
Your breath caught. You had seen him perform before, but tonight was different. The energy here was wild, unrestrained. Gulping, you adjusted your cap on your head, trying to hide your face. As if someone will look at you and your flushed cheeks.
You felt Natasha’s elbow nudge your arm. “You’re staring,” she whispered.
You couldn’t even deny it.
Because in that moment, under the flashing lights and the roar of thousands, you weren’t a princess. You weren’t anyone’s daughter or a future queen. You were just a girl, heart racing, watching a boy with a microphone command the world.
And maybe, just maybe, with the way he was looking at your way, he was singing for you.
Jungkook usually has trouble seeing things from the stage.
Both the fans and his bandmates have joked about his poor eyesight since he usually cannot read fan-made signs unless they are in the standing area. Wooshik or Mingyu will usually do all the sign-reading during fan interactions because Jungkook hates wearing glasses or lenses on stage.
But for some reason, tonight, you are simply an eyecatcher.
You sat in the first row, right behind the standing crowd. After Tara told him that you were already in your seat, Jungkook made it his mission to look for you. He was so ready to pull out and put on his graded eyeglasses if he won’t be able to see you before their first song ended. But fortunately, like magnets, his eyes easily found you in the middle of their introduction when the lights passed by your spot.
Black leather jacket, black Yankees cap.
He kept that in mind, so he could look in your direction every now and then with ease. Jungkook throws a sly wink when you remove your cap for a moment. He tried not to get his tongue tied when he noticed your red lips forming into a smile.
“You’re smiling too much,” Carter nudged his shoulder while they were waiting for their cue to go on stage after the prerecorded video.
Before Jungkook could even say anything, Wooshik smirked, “Who wouldn’t? Her Royal Highness is in the house tonight.”
“Princess YN’s here?!” Mingyu’s eyes widened at their already-smiling vocalist. “You told me she said no last night!”
“I can’t tell you shit. You’re a blabbermouth.” Jungkook told him. “Plus, YN wants to keep her attendance lowkey. I have to respect that–”
“Okay, so you two are on a first-name basis now? No titles?” his best friend cuts him off again, teasing.
“Last ten seconds. Boys, please go to your spots.”
A voice, their director, spoke in the in-ears. They followed, jogging on their rehearsed spots on the stage. They sang another song. It was louder and raunchier. Jungkook can feel his hair sticking to his forehead from how much energy he gave on that one. He’s so hyped up, determined to leave a mark tonight. After the song, he took a sip from a standby water bottle.
“Is everyone having a great time?”
Jungkook asked with his wired microphone, and the whole audience roared with screams and cheers. The bright lights pointed at him made it hard for him to see you clearly. But knowing
“Now, is there anyone here up for a surprise?” he wiggled his eyebrows.
Every member smiled with excitement from the crowd. They don’t really do surprise songs at every stop of their tour. So it thrills them too when Jungkook brings up a surprise song idea last night for them to play tonight. They only rehearsed the said song this morning.
“Seems like everyone is up for it.” Jungkook turned his head to his bandmates, silently signaling them to get ready. He looked back at the audience. His eyes stopped at a specific spot, “By the way, this song is a dedication to someone special. I would like to greet the beautiful lady in–”
Cutting him off, Woosung began playing the drums for the song’s intro, and so did Carter and Mingyu with their guitars. They all smiled when they heard a small “aww” of disappointment from their fans. Jungkook combed through his damp hair with his fingers before singing the first line.
“You're just too good to be true. Can't take my eyes off of you.”
With the surprise song and the way Jungkook has been performing, the online spaces are getting crazy. The fans can tell that there is something in the show tonight.
That one post got more than four thousand likes and reposts.
Jungkook was never open about his romantic relationships, but he has been spotted on different dates before. Years ago, he was seen with an actress. There were also rumors of him and a particular pop star, who was also touring the world, but nothing was really confirmed about it.
Then, there was a simple photo of an easily recognizable woman that fans used as a confirmation.
@.ilovemyboysfrfr posted, “saw her at the standings tho”
It was Louise Chu.
The model.
The highest-paid one last year.
She was often seen at the band’s shows. She didn’t shy away from expressing her love for Sweet September… and Jungkook in interviews. Fans always see her under his Instagram posts, commenting a simple heart emoji or just liking it. Jungkook himself barely mentions her in his own interview, but acknowledged her a few times.
But one fan begs to differ. @.bluemoon04 randomly posted, “lol he didn’t care about that model.”
Under their tweet was a blurry image of a woman in a cap during the concert. It was taken on the sides. She was encircled in a red circle with an arrow pointing at the mysterious person. Given that the lights were dimmed during the event, the girl is barely recognizable. Her cap was almost covering her eyes.
The user added another tweet, “LC was on the left side of the audience, JK kept on turning his head on the right. he even blew a kiss in that direction.”
@.bluemoon04 says, “whoever this girl was… i like her red lip lol”
The thread barely got attention anyway.
It was right before the encore.
A staff member quietly approached you and Nat with his small flashlight. He mentioned something about an easier exit. Although you were a little sad to leave the concert earlier, you followed behind him. Nat remained alert, side-eyeing the staff member while he guided you two out of the crowd.
Your assistant scooted closer to you when you passed by someone who audibly gasped. You realized it was not because of the performers on stage, as you heard murmurs of Zafiro and a princess afterward.
As you walked down the hallway backstage, you saw Tara waving her hand. She meets you halfway, “I’m sorry I had to pull you guys out before the last song. Jungkook said it might get too dangerous for you if we let you go with the fans after the concert.”
You didn’t even think of that.
“Oh, that was really nice of him,” you whispered before catching a glimpse of a reflection of yourself in a mirror placed on the side.
Tara kept talking about something while you looked at yourself. After almost two hours of jumping and singing along in the concert, your hair has gone crazy. Your dark eyeshadow was almost smudged, making you more different than your usual look. You can imagine your mom disapproving of this look. Unconsciously, you pulled your top down as it accidentally exposed the lower part of your stomach. No one would probably notice it in hindsight, because of your leather jacket, but you do.
“YN, are you okay?”
You snapped out, immediately eyeing Nat. You realized that you spaced out, and they were waiting for you to respond to something Tara probably asked.
Tara smiled, “Jungkook was hoping to meet you after the show. Is it okay for you to wait?”
You look at your assistant. There is a plane that you are supposed to take in not more than two hours now. You always prefer arriving at events early out of respect, hating the feeling of knowing people are waiting for you. Unlike your sister, who doesn’t mind taking her time. It was one of the reasons why you were the one always sent out to public events by the King and Queen.
Nat raised her brows at you. She can easily read your thoughts just by a look. With that, she simply nodded, which instantly made you smile.
“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Slow down there, lover boy!”
The adrenaline hasn’t even come down yet. He can still hear the fans from the distant. As soon as the stage lift came down, Jungkook jumped to make his way backstage. That earned him a scolding from Carter, who stayed behind along with the rest of the band. But their vocalist didn’t care.
Jungkook only had one thing in mind tonight.
“Hey, hey, Jeon.”
Suddenly, he was grabbed by his arm by their manager. Tara had that confusion drawn on her face, “Why are you so in a rush?”
Jungkook was still catching his breath, both from the concert and running, when he replied, words almost jumbling off his tongue, “I didn’t see her during the encore. Did she say yes? Did she leave already? I was–”
He paused when he noticed you already standing behind Tara. Still wearing your cap, a small smile formed on your lips. You gave him a shy wave. The woman next to you was trying not to laugh, and Jungkook realized how pathetic he might have sounded. He can feel the warmth forming across his cheeks.
“Hey,” you greeted him, almost inaudible.
“H-Hi.” Jungkook gulped.
He stood there for a second too long, chest heaving under his sweat-soaked black shirt. He looked nothing like the rockstar who had just commanded a crowd of people in this very arena. Instead, he looked like a little boy caught stealing.
“You’re still here,” he finally breathed out, a grin breaking through his exhaustion. He wiped a bead of sweat from his forehead. “I thought... I remembered you still have a plane to catch tonight. I thought you’d gone back to your hotel.”
“Not yet,” you said, your fingers twisting the hem of your leather jacket. “Tara said you wanted to say hi.”
“More than hi, actually,” he countered, his voice dropping an octave as he stepped closer, ignoring everyone else. You gulped.
He felt a little braver, and your heart beat got a little faster.
You two looked at each other like you were the only people in the room. Everyone who was in the room except him felt quiet and invisible, and they could tell. You figured it was easy to get lost in his eyes, like he knows the power he has to pull you in. It was strange and new, which are adjectives you don’t really like. But there is something about him that makes you want to know the things you never knew.
“I know you have a flight at midnight, which is unfortunately two hours from now…” Jungkook says, his voice barely a whisper between you two.
“Mhm…” You looked at him, humming for him to continue. Studying his face, you waited for him. A dimple showed on his cheek when he opened his lips to say something, but closed them again.
“I, uhm,” he awkwardly chuckled. “I… I was wonde–” he paused again, looking down. “I’m sorry. I really want to say something, but you’re looking at me, and it’s making me nervous.”
Your eyes widened at the unexpected remark, “Oh. Should… Should I not? I’m sor–”
“No, no! It’s not you,” he replied, scratching the back of his neck. “I mean, it is you. It’s because of you. I like your eyes. I–”
“Jeon Jungkook, get to your point!”
Finally, someone around you spoke. That’s when you noticed his band members, manager, and Natasha are already standing behind Jungkook. They gave you space while you two are having your own universe. You also notice the rockstar’s ears turning red by that.
“Can you guys leave us alone?” he jokingly told them. But they followed, even Natasha, whom you gave a nod.
Once left alone in the green room, he chuckled awkwardly once again. You look at him, waiting for him to gain the courage to say whatever he was about to say. He seemed really nervous. An idea crossed your head.
Should I do it?
You wanted to think about it for a much longer time, but considering that you two are alone, you let yourself. After letting out a soft sigh, you placed a hand on his chest, which was quite firmer than you anticipated.
“Take a deep breath first,” you whispered.
It was like a war was going on inside Jungkook’s head. Fireworks popped in it when he felt your hand on his body. You asked him to breathe without knowing how much power you have over him just by your touch. It was hard to move, especially when he was thinking if you could feel his heart beating out of his chest.
“Inhale…” you led him, inhaling. He followed, not breaking eye contact. You held your breath for a second before letting it out, “Exhale.”
He followed your lead like a man in a trance, his chest rising and falling beneath your palm. For a second, you thought he looked so undone, so unresisting while being irresistible himself.
As he exhaled, the tension in his shoulders finally snapped. He didn't pull away; instead, he leaned into the touch, his own hand coming up to hover near yours before he lost his nerve and let it drop.
“Better?” you asked softly, though your own heart was beginning to betray the facade you were trying to project. You bit your cheek to calm your nerves.
“So much better,” he murmured. He cleared his throat, finally finding the words that had been stuck behind his ribs all night. “I was going to ask if you wanted to get dinner, but... I know that is impossible.”
Anticipating, you can feel your heart breaking at that because he was right. As much as you would love for him to take you out to dinner, you are not just some person. You are someone who represents a nation and more. Hell, you were not even supposed to be here. You are supposed to be the responsible and mature royal princess your fate shaped you to be since your birth.
The air in the green room shifted. It was thickening, turning into a heavy, sweet sort of pressure. Your lungs began to ache. His admission hit you harder now. For the first time, you felt like your crown was a wall built for you to experience life.
You started to pull your hand back, but he was quick, catching your wrist. His grip wasn't tight, but it was certain.
“I didn't finish,” he said, his voice felt firm, but his eyes remained soft. “I know dinner is impossible. I know that you have people waiting for you outside and at the palace. But I have a bike parked at the service exit. No security, no cameras. Only two really dark, tinted helmets.”
Suddenly, it was easier to breathe. He can see how your eyes sparkled. He continued, “I know I can’t take you to a restaurant right now, YN. But are you fine in giving me forty minutes of your time to ride around New York?”
You looked down at his hand on your wrist.
Maybe it was in the way he said it. But being invited to travel didn’t feel like an obligation now. Usually, you are tasked to visit places to represent Zafiro. But tonight, you are just here, invited as yourself. As YN– as a woman–not the princess.
“Forty minutes?” you repeated as if confirming it.
“I would say more, but I know my limits,” he joked, which made you smile.
“Forty minutes,” you whisper to yourself.
You can feel a voice inside you screaming, asking you to decline, as this is not in your schedule. This is not what your mother would want or your father would hope for. Your sister, Astrid, would be surprised. All of the things you polished in your whole life could get tainted if anything happens in this offer Jungkook made.
But you looked back at him and remembered the helmets he mentioned. It’s probably really matte and dark, something that can make you invincible for a moment.
“Jungkook, if I don’t get back here safely in forty minutes,” you paused, gulping down the worries, “It’s not just a missed flight. It’s an international code red.”
You knew he knew that; you just want to make sure.
But Jungkook’s grip did not loosen. If anything, he got braver and stepped a fraction closer, the scent of his stage-sweat and expensive cologne wrapping around you.
“I’ll have you back before any news article hits The King’s desk,” he promised, his voice dropping to a low, rough vibrato. “And I am a very careful driver. I promise.”
You looked at the door where Natasha and the others had retreated. You knew that by walking out of that service exit, you were breaking every rule you learned. You were asking yourself to be a stranger for a while.
“I’ve spent years following my schedule,” you said, finally pulling your wrist free, not to retreat, but to firmly zip up your leather jacket. “I think I can spare forty minutes.”
A slow, triumphant grin spread across Jungkook’s face, and a dimple flashed on his cheek. He didn't waste another second, reaching for his own leather jacket. He helped you to put on the helmet.
“Okay?” he asked, and you nodded. He can imagine you smiling under the visor.
It was heavier than your usual headdress, but it didn’t feel like a burden.
He put on his before offering his gloved hand, the one that covered his distinct tattoos. “Let’s go?”
“Let’s go.”
You let him pull you through the shadows of the loading dock. The noise of the city outside is beginning to drown out the echoes of the people leaving the arena. When you reached outside, no one was really around. You didn’t know there was this part of the arena. You watched as Jungkook kicked up the kickstand; the engine’s growl echoed. He offered his arm for you to hold on as you ride behind him.
You pulled the dark visor down, and suddenly, the world went quiet and tinted. You couldn't see the SUV. You couldn't see anything else, only the back of his leather jacket and the open road beyond the distant gate.
As you leaned forward and wrapped your arms around his waist, pressing your chest against his back, you felt his heart sync with yours. You felt alive.
Before moving the big bike, Jungkook glanced back at you through his own visor. He didn't say a word. He just twisted the throttle, and as the bike lurched forward into the neon blur of New York, you realized you weren't just leaving the arena.
Pt 1 of my Jin fic recommendations - in order of when I read them :)
P.s going back through my list, a lot of authors have deactivated so not everything is here sadly 😭
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the a-listers by @httpknjoon [fluff, angst, humour/crack, actor!au]
Meet Y/N and Jin, two of Hollywood’s hottest celebrities and couple — or are they? Media and fans have been wanting to hear a confirmation for years now. But you two are always good at confusing everyone. Watch as everyone else play this guessing game of what’s the relationship between Y/N and Jin
On The Ropes by @raplinesmoon [angst, smut, ex-boxer!Jin] 18.1k
Kim Seokjin had been washed-up, run-down, and forgotten by the world of boxing. He'd settled on spending the rest of his life fading into obscurity. What he doesn't count on is having a new trainee walk into his gym, and meeting you in the process.
Turn Back Time by @raplinesmoon [fluff, angst, smut, time travel!au] 13.3k
After total humiliation at his middle school baseball try outs, Kim Seokjin wants nothing more than for his awkward years to fade away until he's thirty. Cue a magic baseball glove, and his wish is finally granted. Seokjin suddenly wakes up seventeen years later, now the star pitcher of the team he'd always dreamed of playing for. Confused and overwhelmed at the prospect of the new life waiting for hum, he turns to the only person who seems to understand him - you. Will Seokjin learn what it truely means to be thirty, flirty, and thriving? Or will he find himself wishing he could turn back time?
Cooking for Two by @raplinesmoon [angst] 1.3k
based on this tweet "seokjins the type to make too much pasta after a breakup because he's used to cooking for two"
Platonic by @joheunsaram [smut, fluff, little angst, college!au]
A collection of one shots and drabbles about two idiots best friends turned fwb turned lovers
Novel Complications by @joheunsaram [angst, fluff, love triangle] 8.3k
(Seokjin x reader, Taehyung x reader)
When Seokjin decided to set up his perpetually single best friend on a blind date, the last thing he expected was for you to actually find a boyfriend. He should be happy for you, right? Right?
raspberry truffles by @gukyi [fluff, comedy, fake dating!au] 5k
how to fake date your best friend:
step one: don't fall in love with them.
failed step one.
Mistakes and Retakes by tomoedia [smut, fluff, enemies to lovers!au] 18.5k
Wattpad link
You hate to admit it, but making bad decisions and being reckless seems to be your forte. From saying yes to a last-minute meeting to ignoring your father's warning about driving late at night on a slippery road. As if you haven't gotten enough bad luck already, your high school nemesis decides to be a hero and comes to the rescue. Santa must have placed you in his naughty list for a dire punishment before Christmas.
Home Is Wherever You Are by @hijoonie [angst, fluff, military!au] 3.6k
Kim Seokjin believes he can face any and all things with dignity and strength - prides himself in his resilience and armoured heart. He is a brave man, through and through. The only fear he has is the inability to find his way back into your arms, which in turn would mean he has lost his way home.
Second first meeting by @taleasnewastime [smut, fluff, angst] 12.6k
Four months. You’ve been speaking to, falling slowly in love with, and seemingly getting made a fool of by a man you matched with online for four months. There’s always an excuse why he can’t meet you, always some convenient reason why he can’t make something. But it’s valentines and he’s booked a fancy meal and that’s him, sat at a table, finally ready to meet you. Only it might look like the guy you know but it’s not the person you’ve been speaking to, no, this guy has no idea who you are.
Lost and Found by @taleasnewastime [fluff, angst] 21.2k
What do you do when your whole world comes crashing down around you? When everything you loved turns out to be a lie? When your fiancé tells you he’s been having an affair, you feel like your whole world comes crashing down, but then you find an antiques shop and the strange man that runs the shop helps you slowly rebuild your life and realise maybe not everything about you is broken.
The Wedding by @taleasnewastime [fluff, smut, angst] 11.2k
A wedding of close friends is always a nice occasion. But what if your ex is attending. And what if that ex also happens to be sat at the same table as you with a date. Hopefully the mysterious stranger sitting by you at dinner can help save the day.
The Other Side by @alpacaparkaseok [fluff, soulmate!au]
Choi Haneul knows better than anyone how to survive a soulmate encounter: first, get them into separate rooms. Second, call 911 if there are no soulmate assistants present. Thanks to a degree in soulmate studies and working as a soulmate assistant for her old university, she’s now in the top 10 of applicants looking for a job with Bighit Entertainment. Hoping to gain a position as a traveling soulmate assistant with TXT and increase her chances of finding her soulmate somewhere out in the world, Haneul has no idea what she’s gotten herself into when she’s interviewed for BTS instead.
meet me at the bar by @eoieopda [fluff, smut, 18+] 7.5k
You're supposed to be staring down the barrel of the last — and most important — examination of your life, but you only have eyes for your study buddy.
Jungkook and medstudent!MC will eventually fall out before graduation. He will try to make peace with her during the event, but he won't see her there and would later learn that she wasn't able to attend her own graduation.
to everyone here who’s from the philippines — i hope you’re all safe amid the ongoing super typhoon. if you can, please stay indoors and stay alert. if you’re asked to evacuate, do so right away. always prioritize your safety above all else. here are the hotlines you can contact in case of emergency, please stay safe and dry.
plot | Once upon a time, there was a crowd-favorite crown princess who found herself romantically involved with a famous rockstar. See how they will try to navigate the world and maybe live happily ever after.
w.c | 9.1k
genres | angst, fluff, modern royalty!au, celebrity!au, established relationship!au
pairing | rockstar!jungkook x princess!reader
note | i think this is the longest thing I ever posted here haha (I'm patting myself on the shoulder for that) anyway, let me know your thoughts. enjoy reading!
main masterlist | series masterlist | spotify playlist
EXCERPT FROM THE INTERVIEW
“Oh, won’t you look at that? We have a lovely visitor.”
In the middle of our interview, a medium-sized blue bird flew over where we sat, landing on the tree branch just right above us. Queen YN looked up with a gentle smile on her lips, as if it was not the first time she had met our feathered visitor.
“It seems like the bird’s a familiar friend?” I asked.
“Yeah, she comes here often,” Her Majesty replied softly. “I don’t know if she already has an owner or what. But I named her Sapphire. Not too creative, am I?”
We shared a chuckle with that before I asked, “Why not keep her as a pet? Put pretty Sapphire in a golden cage.”
The slow fade of her smile is noticeable as she answered, “I think putting such a sweet creature in a cage, even though it’s golden, will make her less pretty. It might ruin her.”
She paused to take a sip from her tea, “I’m happy she comes by here of her own free will, and I think that’s one of the things that brings me joy when I see her. She’s free.”
“The freedom she feels whenever she’s here, I think that’s what makes her stay nearby most of the day. Not the beauty of this garden. I think I’m quite familiar with that feeling.”
At this point of the interview, I could tell that Her Majesty is telling me more than about the bluebird above us. I would not want to spoil the moment by asking her more about it, honoring her freedom to share parts of her life she wants to share. But Queen YN went on while looking up as Sapphire moved down on the closer branch.
“I just think… I think there are people who make you feel free, letting you explore places you never thought you could, that will make it hard for you to forget them.” She smiled, looking back at me.
“I kinda want to be like that for Sapphire.”
Jungkook almost dropped to his knees on the platform as they finally went out of sight of their large crowd. His chest heaves heavily as he removes his earpiece. Being under the stage, everything is dimmed. He cannot even recognize who he handed his microphone to before walking away. Droplets of sweat made his skin feel gluey as he ran his hand through his damp, dark hair, pushing it back. He can feel his shirt sticking to his body with how sweaty he is.
“Great show tonight, boys!”
A staff member greeted them on their way down from the stage, offering each of them a high five. After almost three hours of singing, playing with instruments, and interacting with the audience, Jungkook can finally feel relief in his body. His short cigarette sesh earlier didn’t help with his throat feeling a little sore now. Throughout the whole concert, he had to be careful and take sips from his water bottle.
“Okay, let’s take a picture first!”
Jungkook, Carter, Mingyu, and Woosung lined up and posed for a couple of pictures that their staff would post later. The noises from the crowd still rang in Jungkook’s ears before they walked out the doors to the green room. It only began to fade once they rested on the couch.
“I’m soooo tired. I love it.” Mingyu exhaled, but joy was evident in his tone. He leaned next to Jungkook, who pushed him, not enjoying the stickiness of their sweaty skin.
“My earpiece is a mess.” Woosung shared. “I cannot hear the drums well. I think it stopped working for a few seconds during No Control.”
The others shared their thoughts for tonight. Jungkook just listened for the sake of his throat, not bothering to say anything or ask about a certain guest who possibly came to watch tonight. When he felt it getting strained, he cleared his throat and reached for another bottle of water that was prepared on the table.
“How are you feeling?” Carter tapped his shoulder since he had noticed him earlier struggling.
“My throat,” he answered shortly. “Just need to rest.”
“Well, let’s go back to the hotel to let our Jungkook rest,” their drummer suggested.
The others agreed before standing up from the soft couch. Jungkook is already heading straight to their dressing room when Tara comes in, wiggling her brows. There is a glint of excitement behind her eyes, which is rare for someone who’s often stressed out over four grown men.
“By the way, you had very special guests tonight. It made tonight’s tag trend worldwide on Twitter.”
Jungkook paused upon hearing that. He wanted to ask and say something, but didn’t want to be the center of everyone’s attention. For sure, everyone who’s part of this tour knows that he has a stupid crush on a certain royal due to Mingyu openly teasing him about it.
“Who? The king?” Mingyu joked, making the others chuckle.
Tara clicked her tongue, “Eh, close. It’s his daughters, the royal princesses.”
The boys stopped in their tracks. Even Jungkook froze. His throat ran dry, not because of that cigarette or the hours of singing he had done today. Staring at the floor, one single thought stays in his mind. The princesses were here. You were here. Where were you in the seas of screams? Were you singing along? Are you a fan? He did not even notice his members simultaneously turning their heads in his direction. As if they were waiting for him to say something. Jungkook opened his mouth, but closed it back almost instantly. He was so good at making impromptu onstage lines, but now, his mind just stopped working.
Instead, it was Tara who spoke again.
“Maybe we can meet them.”
“Thank you so much, Zafiro! We love you!”
With that final goodbye, the band slowly disappeared as the thick white smoke took over the stage. The fans were still cheering, clapping, and screaming for the last time, adrenaline still on an all-time high. And you? Frozen. You were speechless, like your mind couldn’t process anything. Your mouth was dry, lost for any word to say. Your heart didn’t stop thumping after you set your eyes on someone. It’s getting hard to think straight. You’re in a strange haze— a very strange and hot one.
Jungkook.
That’s his name, right? Whoever he is, he has the prettiest voice. You rarely listen to their genre of music, but you managed to be entertained the whole time. But you don’t know why. When you saw him in that white tank top after he removed his leather jacket on stage, your brain stopped working, setting it on fire. It’s probably because you didn’t expect him to have that arm sleeve tattoo.
It’s so pretty.
He’s so pretty.
You didn’t realize you were clutching the skirt of your dress when Astrid pulled you into her arms.
“Oh! That was so much fun! Thank you so much for going here with me. I know this isn’t your type of music. So, I really appreciate you being here with me.”
You hugged her back, trying to cleanse your mind. You can now excuse your reaction as a shock, since this is your first rock concert. After saying goodbye to her friends, Astrid pulled you with her to leave your seats. She continued talking to you about the concert and the moments she loved, not minding the security agent who was behind you. You tried to listen but failed. You just remembered when the lead singer was playing with that guitar like his life depended on it. His fingers were smooth on playing that thing like he’s used to–
No, no, no. Stop, YN. You shook your head, determined to get whatever thoughts out of your head. That’s not so very royal of you.
Astrid paused, finally noticing you, “Are you okay?”
You turned to her. Head empty, but you know you have to say something. You opened your mouth, about to say something, when you heard something behind you.
Both you and Astrid turned your heads back when you heard your names. The lady who was next to you during the concert is now wearing her security earpiece, probably communicating with Eddie. She also looked at the someone who called for you, scanning her quietly. That someone, you figured, was also a concert staff. You read the card that she wears in her lanyard that says, MANAGER. She was almost out of breath when she caught up to you.
“Oh, I apologize for the informality, Your Royal Highnesses.” She tried to speak with her hands on her knees, to catch her breath. After some seconds, she continued, “I am Tara Montez, Sweet September’s manager.”
“Nice to meet you, Ms. Montez.” You smiled, offering your hand for a shake, which she accepted. Astrid also did the same thing.
“Nice to meet you, too, Princess YN and Princess Astrid. Thank you so much for being here!” Tara paused. “It was totally unexpected and rare to see princesses at the band’s concerts. Uhm… We were hoping the band could meet you. They are big fans of your country. It would be an honor for them to meet you two, even just for a short time.”
Astrid audibly gasped. You looked at her, and the sparkles in her eyes said it all. You can also hear your bodyguard communicating through her wireless device. You’re sure Eddie would want you to walk out of the venue now and avoid any unplanned interactions. But you know your sister would hate to decline the offer. It’s a one-time thing.
So before your bodyguard could interfere, you smiled at Tara,
“Of course.”
“I didn’t see them in the audience. I mean, they are royalties, they should have a seat at the VIP area, right?”
“I think they can’t. For security purposes.”
Back in the green room, the band had already changed into their fresh clothes. Carter and Woosung munched on the chips they saw on the table as they chatted about their upcoming guests. Meanwhile, Mingyu was giggling as he secretly took a clip of Jungkook walking back and forth in front of him. He cannot stay put. He needs to move, or else he won’t stop fidgeting on the couch. Pushing his hair back, he wanted to be presentable at least. He’s still bothered by his sore throat, but the possibility of seeing you up close bothers him more. The amount of mint candies he took in one chew is crazy, as he hopes that there won’t be an awful cigarette smell when he opens his mouth in front of you.
“What should we do?” he asked them, trying to keep his cool. But everyone can tell, he’s failing.
Without any seriousness, Mingyu replied, “Curtsy?”
Before the others could laugh at that, the door opened, and the whole band immediately stood up straight. Carter and Woosung wiped their hands and even sanitized them with an alcohol spray nearby. Mingyu wiggled his eyebrows at Jungkook. The latter gave him an annoyed look. They stood in a row, both nervous and excited to meet the princesses. The door slowly opened, and they could hear Tara’s voice.
“And this is Sweet September…”
Jungkook’s heart almost stopped when he saw you entering with a soft smile on your lips. Every photograph posted in the news and articles didn’t give your beauty any justice, he thought. He never thought that he would get to see or even meet you up close. He can feel his palms sweating. When you locked eyes with him, he swore his heart fluttered. You began taking a step toward him as if ready to shake his hand, but he was too nervous to notice that. Following what Mingyu said, Jungkook was ready to curtsy when you spoke.
“Oh… Uhm, we don’t really do that here, Mister.” You pressed your lips together, trying not to smile. “That’s more like the UK’s thing. A bow would be fine, not mandatory though.”
Everyone in the room laughed except you, who just gave him a gentle smile. But you found it cute. He’s cute. Especially when you saw that tint of red forming across his cheeks as he gets up to properly greet you with a bow.
“Oh— uhm— My apologies, my quee– princess.” he stuttered, looking at you with his doe eyes that remind you of Bambi.
“It’s your royal highness, dumbass.” one of his bandmate whisper-shouted at the back.
Your sister scoffed beside you, finding the whole dynamic of the band as funny and entertaining since she’s a fan. You looked at Astrid sternly, familiar with the look your mother used to give you two. You thought of just shaking their hands later, stepping back.
“Thank you so much for coming to our country. I’ve never seen a crowd as energetic as that,” you began the conversation to break the ice. “It’s a surprise for me to hear our people here singing almost every song in your set. I just learned they are a big fan of your group. Right, Astrid?”
You turned to your sister to give her a chance to speak to her favorite artists, holding her hand. But she just nods, almost hiding behind you. From the way she’s squeezing your head, you know that she’s still gathering courage.
“How about you, Your Royal Highness?” Jungkook asked. He doesn’t know where he’s getting all this strength to talk to you. But he just knows that this might be his first and last chance to talk to you. He wanted to, at least, know your thoughts about them… or him.
You replied with the truth, “Oh– I– this is actually my first time listening to your music. Princess Astrid right here just invited me to go here with her.”
Your sister chimed in, “She’s more of a jazz fan.”
At this point, Jungkook does not care if you’re a fan or not. The fact that you’re here and talking to them– him is enough for him. It already felt unreal to have you standing just a few feet away from him, speaking about their band.
But before the conversation continues, your security staff spoke behind you, “Excuse me. Your Royal Highnesses. The Royal Staff is asking us to go now.“
Jungkook tried not to be upset about that, pursing his lips instead of sighing. He noticed how Princess Astrid’s shoulder slumped and you squeezing her hand with a smile after you acknowledged your staff. However, Wooshik was quick to request something,
“Can we take a picture with you, Royal Highnesses?”
Astrid’s eyes lit up with that, “Of course!”
You quietly smiled before your sister pulled you to stand next to her, in between the four members. Mingyu was supposed to be next to you, but he pulled Jungkook to exchange places with him. Butterflies fooled around in your stomach as you felt his arm briefly brush against yours. All while Jungkook tries to calm his pounding heart. He tries to stay present, taking in your floral scent. He hoped to remember this moment over and over again. He was too busy stealing glances on your way that he didn’t realize it when the camera clicked.
“Okay, one more!”
Before the second shot, you turned your head at him, letting him know that you could feel his eyes on you. He seemed surprised, but didn’t look away. So you gave him a subtle wink and smile before pointing your chin to the front, wordlessly telling him to look at the camera. He did as he became breathless at that short interaction with you.
“It was nice meeting you, guys,” you stepped away.
The band stood in line once again after that. You and Astrid shook hands with them in turns. You introduced yourselves, and so they did too. Ever since you were a kid, when you began attending public royal events, you always followed the royal protocol, where in every person you met, you would shake their hand while having good eye contact. Another part of the protocol is that the public cannot physically touch you unless you initiate it first. So, you did. Astrid followed next to you.
The boys seemed surprised but showed their respect by bowing their heads while you shook hands with each of them. You just hoped your hand was not stone cold. But when it comes to the last person in the line, Jungkook smoothly managed to kiss the back of your hand when you offered it for a handshake.
You were taken aback by the action. Not because he did it. But it felt like something else. The kiss was feather-like. It was light and brief. But you felt something electric run through your veins the moment his lips touched your skin. Your heart shivered. Then, it suddenly beats fast, and you’re scared that everyone around you can hear it. You gulped as you made eye contact with him again.
“It’s an honor to meet you, Your Royal Highness,” his deep and slightly hoarse voice said. It made you feel things you don’t know and you hate and like it at the same time. “I’ve read a lot about you.”
You pursed your lips, trying to contain your emotions, “You did?”
“Yeah.”
Growing up in front of everyone’s eyes, you are used to articles and opinions people say about you unsolicitedly. It’s mostly positive, but there is also a quarter of negative stuff being written about you each day. Usually, you wouldn’t dare to hear or read stories about yourself. But now, you want to ask and know more about what he reads about you. Your quiet exchanges of stares with him were only interrupted when your staff spoke once again,
“The Royal Courtier is waiting, Your Highness.”
There’s an urge to roll your eyes, but you tried not to show annoyance. Still, a small, subtle sigh escaped your lips before smiling at everyone.
“Well, we shall go. Our staff is waiting outside. I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay here in our country. Congratulations on your concert.”
They bowed, and you turned around with Astrid, ready to leave the room.
“Wait!” Mingyu stopped you one more time. “Is there any way we can reach out to you and invite you girls again to our future events? E-mail? Phone number? Telephone number?”
Hearing that, your brows raised. There’s a smirk trying not to show on your lips, while Astrid side eyes you, waiting for your answer. She is over the moon to know that her favorite band wants to connect with both of you personally. Just like you, Jungkook knows what his friend is doing, and he is somewhat thankful for Mingyu.
“The only way to contact us is through Zafiro’s Royal Communication Office. I believe their e-mail and telephone numbers are on their websites.” You sounded like you were teasing or maybe challenging them. But you just honestly found their attempt funny. “Other than that, feel free to send us a letter through the mail.”
Of course, you would not give your personal number. Jungkook thought. Do you even have that? You probably have your own assistant who answers calls for you. It is known to almost everyone that even though every royalty in Zafiro has their own public social media accounts, you just use them to share your accomplished duties and advocacies.
Before leaving, your eyes looked around and stopped at him, “Again, it was nice meeting your band. We hope you come back to our country soon.”
“What did he say? What did he say?”
As soon as you got out of your bedroom door, your little sister greeted you with elated questions. You scanned her from head to toe. She was still in her favorite pajamas while you were already dressed up, ready for the opening of an art exhibition by Zafiroan kids.
“And good morning to you, too, Astrid.” You smiled before walking past her and down the stairs.
Since you ignored her questions, she hastily followed behind you, “Oh, my god. Did he reply? What did he say?”
She had her hands clasped on her chest when you turned around to answer her. Her eyes sparkle as she looks at you, telling that she has her hopes up high.
“It was left on read, almost at the same time I sent it.”
The moment you said that, you see how the smile on her lips falls into a small o. The disappointment is evident in her tone and slumped shoulders.
“Guess, I’m just some needle in his haystack,” you joked, which made her pout. You laughed, shaking it off, “I’m kidding. It’s fine.”
You entered the dining area of the palace, immediately greeted by the staff who were serving your meals and preparing the table. You greeted them back as you sat on your usual seats out of twenty other chairs in this spacious room.
“Rosie, can I ask for lemons and honey for my water?” you asked one of the servants.
“Of course, Your Royal Highness.”
“Thank you.”
You ignored the baffled look on Astrid’s face at the same time you tried to turn a blind eye to that tightness in your stomach when you opened your phone this morning. No one should know that the first thing you thought of when you opened your eyes today is Jungkook and his reply. It was like you were back to being fourteen, giggling over boys and stuff like that.
Before you can take a bite from your toast, your sister finally says something. “Maybe he thought you were just a bot account.”
As much as you appreciate her effort to make you feel better, you just want to move on from this topic. You were already sure from the beginning anyway that it was impossible to have such a connection with a world-famous rockstar like Jungkook. It was great to meet and see him perform live, but to expect something more than that would be delusional. Also, for someone in your position, you should not be connecting with someone like him. That would be controversial. You can hear your mother’s voice at the back of your head already if that happens.
So you just looked at your sister and smiled, “Sure, sure, Astrid. Now, let’s just have a peaceful breakfast and go on our day.”
For someone who’s being groomed to be the next leader of a nation, it was easy for you to get that small rejection out of your head. You were often busy, attending events and shaking hands with various important political personalities. But it didn’t mean you forgot about that night. Sweet September, their performance, and their lead vocalist. Sometimes, when you find yourself up at the very late hours of the night, you watch interviews and read articles about them– or him specifically. You told yourself it was just to pass the time and distract your brain away from your royalty duties, but sometimes you end up listening to his acoustic songs on your bed, as if he is lulling you to sleep. To be fair, Jungkook has a very smooth voice that is suitable for various genres.
Does that mean he turned you into a fan? Maybe. But you still have neutral feelings about rock music, still opting for jazz all the time. If it were down to choosing between attending Sweet September’s concert or Laufey’s show, you’d probably still choose the latter.
In spite of your growing curiosity with him, you knew that that was probably it. Whatever happened that night of their concert in your country might be the last time you were going to talk to him again. You know that you two lived in two distinctly different worlds, and any connection between you and Jungkook will just be utterly impossible. So as months went on, you focused on the more important aspects of your life as Zafiro’s princess.
“Turn here!”
“On your left!”
“Princess, here!”
The continuous flashes of light and clicking sounds of cameras go along with the requests of the photographers around you. You tried to accommodate their requests, turning your head and subtly posing for their lenses. For a quick second, you glanced around the white carpet, scanning among the unfamiliar faces, and eased off your shoulder when you spotted Nathalie, your assistant private secretary, in the corner. She was just behind you, fixing the tail of your gown as you moved.
This year’s Met Gala theme is something along the lines of reimagining fairytales. Anna Wintour exclusively invited two royals to come to the event. You and Astrid. Your parents were once invited years ago, just a year after their wedding, but had to decline as they were doing some commitments in your country at the time. So tonight would be the first Met Gala that a Zafiroan royal would attend. Unfortunately, Astrid had to withdraw four days ago after having the flu and was asked to rest by your palace doctor. You almost didn’t want to go after that, but after your sister convinced you to please attend (for her sake), you agreed to go. Alone.
“Beautiful!”
You posed for a few more shots before you see Nathalie gesturing for you to go up the carpeted stairs. Before you reached the top, your eyes spotted the designer of your gown, who walked earlier than you.
“You look magnificent, Your Royal Highness,” she greeted you as you shook hands with her.
“Thank you so much, Maria. This gown is marvelous,” you praised her. “I appreciate the adjustments you made.”
“Oh, it’s nothing. Fran and I just knew you would be perfect in that gown. So we accepted the requests you had before.”
The Dior gown was originally quite revealing on the chest. As a royal, you were often required (but not limited) to wear something modest. So when you saw this yellow gown in the choices your stylist, Fran, presented to you, you chose it with the request to put a fine or sheer cover-up for that certain part.
“Anyway, we’re going inside for the tour. Are you coming, Your Highness?” she asked.
You paused, looking at her, then at Nathalie, who is now beside you, “I’ll catch up.”
Maria smiled and bid her goodbye. You smiled at her before turning to your assistant. Your smile faded as you asked her,
“Are you really not going inside?”
“Yeah, I talked to other celebrity assistants here. Apparently, we can only stay here outside since assistants are not invited to enter the venue. Only there, outside,” she explained.
Your eyebrows scrunched together as you bit your lip. You just air out your frustration through a small sigh. Nat smiled, handing you your purse.
“Don’t worry, Ma’am. Your phone’s in it. Taking personal photos is not allowed. But give me a call if you want to go after the dinner event. I’ll have our ride ready, and I’ll meet you here on the outside,” she assures you, holding your gloved hand. “But please enjoy the night, Your Highness.”
“Astrid should have been here,” you mumbled, sounding like a kid about to throw a fit.
Nat chuckled with you. She knows your worries. This is the first time someone from your kingdom is attending the Met Gala. You are not only representing yourself but also your country. The pressure feels like you’re in a beauty pageant instead of a fundraising gala.
“You don’t have to stay for too long, okay? Just mingle a little, sip some cocktails, and enjoy their dinner there. Then, you can dial me,” she tried to assure you again.
“Okay, okay,” you sighed. “Thank you so much, Nat.”
You began to walk away as she raised her two thumbs, cheering you on. An event staff member, whom you mistook for a model who was just standing in the background, gave you directions on where to turn and go. He said it was only cocktail hour, and the dinner would start later. He encouraged you to look around the exhibition. He also helped you with the train of your gown so you to move more comfortably.
“Thank you–” you paused, waiting for him to say his name.
“My name is Drew, Your Highness.”
You nod as you give him a smile, “Thank you, Drew.”
“Oh, Your Royal Highness!”
You turned as you heard someone addressing you in the busy background. There, you see the woman of the hour, Anna, walking up to you. She was smiling and sans her fashionable sunglasses, different from what you would usually see in pictures.
“Anna, thank you so much for the invite, “ you beamed before shaking hands with her. “Astrid sends her apologies for not being able to make it here tonight.”
“It’s fine. We will always have it next year! Let’s talk about this dress, it’s gorgeous!” she exclaimed while making you twirl for her. “The color suits you magnificently. And the tiara, it’s perfect! Who made it?”
“Oh, it’s from Zafiro. It was made by a local jeweler that the King commissioned,” you proudly replied.
With the image of a certain Disney princess in your stylist’s mind, your father gifted you a gold tiara with bejeweled red roses in it. Jewelry and such are Zafiro’s top products. It’s been your father’s goal to make your country known by producing delicate and elegant pieces of jewelry. So wearing it and getting many pictures of you taken tonight would be a great exposure for your country’s top produce.
“Maybe we can feature it for our editorials in the future.” She suggested, “Anyway, have you gone around the exhibition?”
“Not yet. I just got in here minutes ago,” you replied.
“You should look around here, Princess. There are a lot of wonderful works here, you’ll love it. I heard you’re an artist yourself too– Do you want some drinks?” she offered when a server passed by, holding a tray of various drinks.
“Sure. Red wine is fine,” you smiled, and they handed you one. You carefully took a sip before continuing your talk with Anna, “Not really a professional artist. I just paint and draw in my free time.”
“That’s what being an artist is, Your Highness,” she chuckled.
You two began to walk to the main exhibit. You were silently grateful to have company other than Drew, who was still helping you with your gown. She was graceful in describing and talking about the displayed fashion pieces. But of course, she is Anna Wintour. Other guests were approaching her. She then had to go and mingle with one of her favorite models.
“Please, enjoy. I’ll see you at our table later,” she smiled.
“I will. Thank you.”
And almost immediately, when she walked away, you felt alone. You looked around, and everyone knew everyone. Even Drew was talking to the other guys who were assisting other guests. Everyone was laughing and chatting while holding their glasses. Holding tighter to your own glass of wine, you took a long, slow, deep breath.
Just look around.
“Do you think we can smoke in the bathroom?”
Jungkook simply chuckled at Mingyu’s mumbled question as they looked around the displays in the exhibition. Tonight is their first Met Gala. Jungkook was invited through Dior while his bandmate was invited through Balmain. They arrived separately but found each other inside the MET.
“Oh, hey, Jungkook! Mingyu!”
Before Jungkook could even recognize the owner of the voice, Louise was already standing in front of them. She smiled before kissing each of their right cheeks.
“You didn’t tell me you were coming!” she exclaimed, talking to Jungkook only. “I watched your band’s show last week in Nashville with my best friends. You were so good! We tried to congratulate you backstage, but your manager said you’re not accepting guests.”
This time, her hand lands on his chest, feeling the texture of his tux. Mingyu was hiding his teasing grin as he took a sip of his cocktail. Jungkook forced a smile before holding the model’s hand. He played it off to remove her hand as he replied.
“Yeah, I… was kinda sick.”
Louise’s eyebrows raised as she awwed, “Oh, how are you now?”
“I’m good. I got better,” he replied awkwardly.
He side-eyed his best friend for a quick second. It was a silent signal for help as Jungkook felt claustrophobic in the current scenario he is in. Louise is no stranger to him. They have met before and became acquaintances, way further than she claims in interviews. She slides in his DM whenever she can, which in that case is every week. Jungkook always tries to be polite to her, replying to her relentless greetings. But he always tries to find a way to excuse himself from her invitations to hang out. He’s just not interested.
Mingyu, who is aware of this, butts in, “You know, I think the dinner will be served soon. We should go to our table.”
“Really? Maybe we should.” Jungkook agrees.
Louise seemed to frown for a second before another celebrity greeted her and got her lost in a conversation. Mingyu took the chance to pull Jungkook away, mixing in the crowd.
“The last time you were sick, we were in Zafiro.” Mingyu scoffed.
Jungkook rolled his eyes, and as if it was fated, his eyes landed on someone in a yellow gown in the middle of the crowded room. He cannot see properly due to the distance and a bit of dim light. But he can recognize who it was.
“Is… that YN?” he guessed, making his bandmate look in the same direction.
"She’s here?!”
You were alone, looking around, until a famous celebrity couple approached you. His heart skips when he sees you laugh. To say that you looked wonderful would be an understatement. You were easily noticeable with the color of your gown, which suits you perfectly. He wondered if you had been here earlier or later than him. He didn’t know you were making an appearance. But he’s not that surprised that you’re here, as you were known to be a fan of the arts too.
“Let’s go talk to her–”
A staff member interrupted them, “Please go back to your seats, dinner will be served.”
While walking in the same direction as everyone around him, Jungkook’s eyes didn’t leave you. He wants to approach you, maybe greet you, or talk to you. Just any excuse to be near you. When he lost track of you, he made a firm goal in his head.
“Oh, it’s an honor to meet you!”
One of your favorite musicians is now sitting next to you. You cannot help but smile and fangirl when she introduces herself. You didn’t mean to be so excited to shake her hand when she offered it.
“Oh, my. The honor’s all mine! I do know who you are! I am a fan of yours,” you exclaimed. “I know jazz isn’t really your main genre. But I really adore every jazz song you performed. You and Tony Bennett were fantastic together!I watched you perform during your tour years ago. It was fantastic.”
“Thank you so much, Princess YN.” Lady Gaga replied with her hand on her chest.
She listened warmly, nodding, as you expressed your love for her jazz endeavors. You felt more comfortable sitting next to her. She even had conversations with you and complimented you on your gown. Your heart was happy. You almost forgot she was a co-host of the event, if she didn’t mention it.
“I heard this is your first time visiting New York, Your Highness.”
Another known designer, who was at the same table as you, brought up. Suddenly, everyone’s eyes are on you, and you feel smaller in your seat. You straightened on your seat, trying to regain the confidence your mother told you to always wear.
“It is,” you replied with a small smile.
“How are you enjoying it so far?” an actor asked.
“Oh, I haven’t really been anywhere other than my hotel room,” you joked. “I just arrived here this morning.”
Then, everyone starts recommending what you should do and where you should visit. They mentioned popular spots and restaurants. They also added some seemingly fun activities. But as much as you like that, you will not be staying for too long in the country for your duty in Zafiro. But instead of telling all of that, you just replied:
“I will, I will.”
On the other side of the room, Jungkook tried to remain engaged in whatever conversation was happening at their own table circle. He laughed along to their jokes while also stealing glances in your direction. He sees you mingling and laughing at the beginning of the dinner service.
But as the night got older and almost everybody began standing up from their chairs to dance along to the music being played in the background, you remained in your seat. Jungkook thought of going up to you to invite you to maybe dance, but he saw you kindly declining a couple of people who tried to do the same thing. You just watched them quietly, tapping your fingers on the table.
“Hey, JK.” Mingyu, who was right beside him, snapped him out of his gaze. “There’s an afterparty hosted by Stella McCartney at Zero Bond. Let’s go. I think everyone’s coming there. It’s gonna be fun.”
“Yeah, sure. But less drinking. We still have to perform tomorrow.” Jungkook reminds him, and Mingyu nods.
And when Jungkook looks back at the same spot you were at, your chair is already empty. His brow raised, and his eyes traveled around the place. After a quick scan, he spotted your back going in the direction of the main exhibit. With a sure decision in his mind, he simply tapped Mingyu’s shoulder as Jungkook got up to follow you.
You don’t know why. But sometimes, being a royal makes you feel a bit isolated. It’s not that no one wants to interact with you– actually, a lot of people do. It’s just that you know every move you make will reflect your country and family. So, you try to be careful in this large, crowded event. Now, here you are, in one of the most significant and fabulous events in the fashion world, sitting on the same chair you have been sitting in thirty-five minutes ago.
Three men had already tried to invite you to vibe along with the fun music, but you only smiled and gently rejected them. You don’t really dance except for formal ones.
“She doesn’t really talk much, doesn’t she?”
It was a whispered question that you managed to hear from someone behind you. Even though they didn’t mention any names, you knew who they were talking about. You felt glances towards you. So you turned your head around, offering a small smile to them. They seemed surprised as their eyes widened before they smiled back, slightly bowed, and walked away.
Maybe I should just call Nat.
You sighed, agreeing to that idea. But before that, you get up and silently make your way to the main exhibit. To at least look around one last time before you leave this magnificent museum. With your purse in hand, you walked out of the main event area. The music faded in your ears as you arrived near the exhibit. A staff member bowed at you when your eyes met before you entered the room.
“I apologize, can I still look around here?” you asked them.
“Of course, ma’am. We just don’t expect someone to go in here while the party is still going on there,” she said, and you simply smiled.
You felt calmer as you took in the intricate designs of the gowns displayed. Even the suits for men were perfect for the theme, reminding you of princes in Disney movies. Without many people around, you were given a chance to take your time looking at the displays. You simply examine every design that brings you back to your younger years. You used to sketch an unlimited number of clothes and designs when you got your first crayons and sketchpad. It’s nothing compared to these gowns, but it showed your colorful imagination back then. You imagine the four-year-old version of yourself jumping up and down while looking at every fashion gown and suit.
“Enjoying the night, Princess?”
“Oh!”
You almost jumped in your gown when you saw a certain man when you turned around. Your hand was clutched on your chest as you blinked.
“Jungkook.” Your faint voice murmured, still in surprise at his sudden appearance.
“It’s nice to see you again, Princess YN.”
And once again, he held your hand and planted a small kiss on the back of it. You wondered if he felt how cold it was or how you froze with–again– the unexpected action. Maybe he can hear how loud your heart beats. Or how many butterflies played around in your stomach the moment you felt his lips on your skin?
Does he really love doing this to everyone he meets?
You don’t want to think you were being treated specially by him through this action, especially since you got no reply after reaching out to him three months earlier.
“You know, for someone who has been attending massive royal events ever since they were little, you seemed pretty flustered tonight.”
Jungkook tried to break the silence. He was scared by your reaction when he looked at you after kissing your hand. You were just staring at him. But after he said that, you gently took away your hand as you straightened up your posture.
“Well, that’s because Zafiro is different from other places like these,” you replied in a joking manner, but you were just being honest.
Then again, silence found its way between you two. It’s not awkward. Nor suffocating. It’s strangely peaceful. There was still this distant sound of the party away, but Jungkook found himself in a staring battle against you. And admittedly, he felt conscious when you ran your eyes from his down to his outfit. Then back on his eyes again.
“Is that real?” you asked.
“Hmm?”
“The piercing… on your lip.” Your finger points at the corner of your lips, mimicking where the metal ring is on his.
“Oh.” Jungkook touched the silver ring on the corner of his lips. “It is. Wanna touch?”
He said it as a joke, and he smiled when he saw you finally break into a smile and giggle.
“Thank you for the offer. But I would have to decline that. It looks great on you, and so is your suit,” you told him, making him shyly scratch the back of his neck.
“Thank you, I could say the same thing with you. You’re stunning as always.”
As always. That one was embedded in your mind even though you tried not to think much about it. You cleared your throat, “What are you doing here anyway, Mister? The party is happening inside.”
He slipped his hands in his pants pockets. “I can ask the same thing of you, Your Highness.”
“I’m just taking one last tour around here before I call for my ride.”
His eyebrows raised, “You’re leaving already?”
“Uh, yes,” you answered, while trying to ignore the question in your head that wonders if he is sad about you leaving early.
“You’re not going to any after-parties? Mingyu and I are actually going to one of those. Maybe you can come? I could send you the address, if you want–”
But you cut him off before you can fully think, “I don’t think that’s a good idea, Mr. Jeon, considering that you didn’t respond when I reached out to you after we met.”
Lines were automatically between his brows as he heard, “What? I didn’t receive anything from your communication office in Zafiro.”
You scoffed, “You took that seriously?”
“Of course, I did. I thought you didn’t give your number to anyone outside your family,” he sounded genuinely confused and a little offended.
His Bambi eyes looked back at you innocently, which you find as greatly contrasting to his visible tattoos and piercings. You wondered if he really got your message and maybe just forgot it now. Or maybe he is just lying and denying your slight jab at him.
You pursed your lips, studying his expression, before saying, “Well, okay. But I messaged you after we met,”
Then, he looked much more confused because he was. Jungkook does not remember receiving any form of communication from you that night. If he did, he would never forget it. He will probably have it framed or as new wallpaper on his phone.
“I DM-ed you,” you added, but only got a tilted head and furrowed brows from him. So you continued, “With my private account. You immediately read it after I sent it. Wait, let me show you.”
Reaching into your purse, you fished out your phone. You don’t know why you are even doing this, proving yourself to him. You tapped on your screen quickly, feeling determined. This seems risky, but you also want to do it anyway. You went straight to your secret account and opened the one and only message you had there. You showed it to the man in front of you and watched his eyes get bigger as he read it.
As if a light bulb switched on over his head, Jungkook was fast to explain himself, “Oh my god, I remembered that one! But I was sick and drowsy in the following days, maybe that’s why I didn’t respond. I forgot. I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to do that.”
Jungkook stood there, waiting for you to say something, when an idea popped into his head.
“How about this?” he began. “Our band will be performing tomorrow night here in New York. It’s one of our last shows for our tour. Are you still here by then?”
“I’ll be flying back to Zafiro tomorrow, before midnight,” you replied almost automatically. Like you were programmed to do so.
“Okay, the concert will be starting at eight. It will probably end by ten. Maybe we can still meet backstage. You know… to hang out.” he pursed his lips at the last sentence.
You squint your eyes at him, “Is this a guilt offering?”
He smiled, shaking his head, “No, just like what you mentioned in your message, it’s an invitation. But with a backstage pass.”
On your way back to your hotel, Nat eyed you through the moving car’s rearview mirror. You were biting off a smile as you looked down, typing on your phone. She observed how you have been blushing ever since you walked out of the MET, and it’s obviously not because of alcohol.
“Any plans to tour around the city tomorrow, Your Highness?”
You looked up, eyes meeting hers at the mirror as you replied, “Maybe. But free up my last six hours here. I’m going to a concert.”
