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Chapter 3: Evening Rendezvous

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Jennie POV
24th July, 9:36 pm
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"Hey, this is Jeon Jungkook. Hope this was enough to prove myself to you. But also, I would like to meet you in person" his calm voice comes from the other side of the phone which catches me off-guard. He couldn't be serious.

"Jennie-sshi?" He says again. He is waiting for an answer. I hear him clearing his throat.

"Excuse, me?" confusion dripping from my voice as I readjust the phone. I think I have heard something wrong. I start moving from position and glance here and there in nervousness. I see Rosé through the Thai glass constantly, sceptically looking at me with those shiny eyes of hers and wearing a curious twisted smile. "Why do I have to meet you?" I quickly add, still confused.

"We need to settle that incident and I'm not that much of a jerk to apologize over on the phone. It'd be better if we talk face to face" he answered. Making sense now. Okay, he is not as immature and dense as I thought.

"But, it's risky" I hesitate. I know that he knows it too.

"What's wrong with taking a little bit of risk?" He said before unexpectedly hanging up. Shocked? maybe. Speechless? certainly. I groan, don't know if it's from frustration or annoyance.

My guts are saying that this person will trouble me a lot.

I turn back and see Rosé constantly shooting me a half-questioning, half-shrewd look. I get back to the room and before Rosé opens her mouth we hear the door opening. Followed by the squeal of hinges and the clicks of heels.

Lisa coming from work. Lisa takes off her heels and pokes her head around the vestibule that leads to Jisoo and Lisa's room on the opposite side of the front door. Instead of going straight into her room, she goes the right way, before we hear another click of heels but in a sloppy and soon our eyes lands on Jisoo dozing off behind the door. She looks drunk. Rosé reaches her and helps her to walk steadily, "Unnie, how much did you drink?"

"How come you two are coming together?" I ask, heading right way with Lisa, toward the apartment's open-concept living-dining area.

"I met her outside. Haein sunbae dropped her here. He said they were at a dinner party where she drank", Lisa explains, crossing the room. She drops the handbag onto the edge of the coffee table and collapses onto the couch. Jisoo whines something for some seconds which we can't understand and signs Rosé to take her to the room and Rosé does.

"Haein oppa drove her here?" I ask and add, "Did he not drink?"

"No no, he didn't drive her here. He had a drink too. They got here in a cab. But her identity was hidden, thanks to him" Lisa replies.

"They were on the backseat together?!" I was dumbfounded.

"HE IS HANDSOME!" Jisoo shouts from the other room, followed by her drunk chuckles. We are even more surprised now, totally flabbergasted.

"Who is handsome? Jung Haein?" Lisa asks with a mischievous but questioning. I know what she is thinking and I'm thinking. She knows that we're thinking the same.

We giggle.

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Jennie POV
28th July, 7:54 pm
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"Are we done?"

"Yeah, okay."

"Kamsahamnida, everyone!"

The shooting of BLACKPINK SUMMER DIARY 2021 comes to an end, leaving all of us, including myself, exhausted from the numerous rides at the theme park. The hardworking staff are still wrapping things up despite their weariness. I'm feeling nauseous due to motion sickness after all those thrilling rides. Our manager rushes to us with water bottles neatly organized in a foldable carrier. We eagerly grab the bottles like thirsty crows, and then he hands us scopolamine patches to alleviate our discomfort. I'm quick to take one and apply it behind my ear, knowing it's exactly what I need right now.

As the evening approaches, we make our way to the cars. Everyone is tired, and Lisa expresses her exhaustion while finding a seat. Jisoo sits in the back of our black microbus, and I settle in beside her. I appreciate sitting next to Jisoo as she takes up less space and offers her shoulder for support when needed.

Amidst the chatter of the other members, I find myself staring at my phone, hoping for a call or update from him that never comes. It's been several days. At this point, it feels like he has stood me up.

Jisoo notices my distraction and asks, "Are you expecting a call?"

I try to dismiss it, saying, "Ah, no, not really," and quickly put my phone back in my pocket.

Rosé turns to me with a curious look and reminds me, "Speaking of calls, don't you have something to explain to me?"

I gesture for her to hush down, replying, "I will, I will. Let's talk about it later."

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Rosé's POV
29th July, 12:03 pm
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"Sure, let's go," I exclaim as we entered the coffee place recommended by Jennie unnie. It's the perfect spot to spend the day together, having fun. Originally, we had planned to have a meal, but we decided to use the remaining time for some shopping – my favourite pastime. Unfortunately, Jisoo and Lisa couldn't join us; Jisoo was tired from her acting career, and Lisa was busy working on her solo projects. So, it's only me and Jennie unnie now.

Jennie unnie orders an Iced Americano for herself, and I opt for a Mocha Latte. Being the elder one, unnie generously takes care of the bill. However, we have to leave quickly because the place has gotten crowded, and we don't want to risk running into sasaengs, which would ruin our day.

As we walk down the empty street, I couldn't help but remark, "I can feel the weather in each of my nerves!!"

Jennie unnie responds, "I feel like screaming too."

Curious, I ask, "What's stopping you then?"

She replies with a smile, "Common Sense."

"I must admit, that sounded offensive, but let's take it as a friendly tease," I say, playfully placing my hand around her shoulder. We both share a laugh before sipping our coffee and heading to the mall.

As we step into the opulent shopping district, we are immediately surrounded by a world of elegance and extravagance. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and designer perfumes wafts through the air, adding to the allure of the luxurious boutiques lining the streets.

We are currently at Apgujeong Road leading to Cheongdam-dong, inside of Gangnam.

With excitement in our eyes and a hint of anticipation, we begin our journey, exploring each high-end store with delight. We decide to visit Chanel first. The well-mannered staff warmly welcomes us -especially Jennie unnie- and leads us through the store.

We indulge in the beauty of the finely crafted accessories and marvel at the exquisite designer dresses. Among the treasures that adorned the racks, one particular ensemble captures Jennie's heart- a mesmerizing Chanel handbag. By looking at her facial expression, I can see that she is envisioning herself wearing it.

With a sense of excitement and admiration, Jennie unnie requests to try on the enchanting creation. One of the staff immediately takes it out from the glass rack and hands it carefully to her. As she stands up in front of the mirror holding that handbag, her reflection beams at us. It feels as if it was designed exclusively for her.

"Daebak unnie! You look absolutely stunning in this... it suits you perfectly," I exclaim with a thumbs-up gesture, admiring her appearance. She smiles at my comment.

After we finish shopping at Chanel, I insist on going to YSL right away.

Entering Yves Saint Laurent, we are greeted by the attentive and neatly dressed staff, who offer personalized service and expert advice on the latest products. But before I buy anything for myself, my eyes catch a male suit in the display of the male section and it captivates my heart almost immediately.

This YSL male suit is a masterpiece...its lines are impeccable and the fabric is draped with an aura of opulence. I want to get that for Dad.

I miss Dad. I miss Australia. I miss home.

Filled with excitement, I approach the shop attendant. I inquire with the attendant, "Could you please tell me the size of this?"

"Sorry ma'am, this suit is booked by one of our VIP customers. I can show you other suits if you'd like," my anticipations get dampened hearing her words. A wave of sadness washes over me as if this masterpiece has slipped through my fingers.

Disheartened, I linger for a moment, gazing longingly at the suit that seems to mock my unfulfilled aspirations. Jennie unnie comes beside me and asks, "What were you going to do with that male suit anyway?"

"For my dad," I tell her with a neutral expression, I add, "His birthday is coming soon..."

Our focus is captured as we observe the staff members warmly greeting an individual approaching the male section. From our distance, we can only perceive his outline. He's tall, buff, and dressed casually in a backwards cap. As he moves nearer, our astonishment grows as we recognize the familiar face.

Jennie unnie pushes me with her elbow and whispers to me, "Ya ya- isn't that Park Chanyeol?"

It takes a moment for recognition to kick in, but as soon as it does, a smile spreads across my face. With a mix of excitement and hesitation, I approach him, "Chanyeol oppa?"

"Rosé-shhi?" a spark of recognition lights up his face and he notices Jennie unnie too, "Jennie-shhi you're also here..."

"Yes...long time no see, I guess. Have you been well?" I inquire, trying to recall the last time we met, probably at a festival or award show a few years ago. Although, we are not that close because we only met up for business.

"I'm not sure if I can say I've been well. Military life is tough," he admits, rubbing his neck with a sense of weariness apparent in his voice. I can't help but feel a tinge of concern for him.

"Oh, you're in the military now? When did you enlist?" I ask with curiosity, trying to learn more about his experiences during his service.

"I enlisted last, but I'm on a break right now," he explains, adding, "I don't want to disturb your shopping, though."

"No worries, sunbae. We're just browsing around. Are you a regular here?" Jennie joins the conversation, her presence bringing a friendly atmosphere to the encounter.

"Yes, I am. I in fact happen to be a VIP here. I came specifically for my suit today," he states, pointing to the exact suit that caught my eye. I get goosebumps, so he is the one I'm losing this suit to? I can't help but feel a friendly rivalry for the suit.

"Really?! You booked this suit?" I can't contain my excitement, and my question comes out as a shout, the astonishment is clear in my voice. Even Jennie's eyes are wide open.

"Y-yes, why?" he says awkwardly, flustered at my sudden behaviour.

"Sir,  this ma'am expressed a strong desire to purchase this suit. Unfortunately, she was disheartened by not being able to acquire it because you had booked it beforehand" The shop attendant jumps in between us, not sure if I should be thankful for her or mad at her.

"Oh, is that so?" He shoots me a questioning look, still awkward.

"Yes sunbae, she wanted it for her father. His birthday is coming soon actually" says Jennie. Oh hell, why is everybody answering instead of me? What the actual heck?

Nervously and awkwardly, I meet Chanyeol oppa's gaze, and our eyes lock intensely. But soon, his penetrating stare unexpectedly softens.

I discover some kind of puppiness in him.

He flashes a sweet smile and replies, "You can have it," telling the attendant to pack the suit for me. But when I see him reaching for his wallet, I quickly intervene.

"Wait, oppa, you booked it first, so you should take it," I insist, not wanting to snatch it away from him.

But he doesn't seem fully convinced and insists, "No, it's totally alright. I'll not need any suit anytime soon since I've still got a long way to go in the military. You can have it for your dad, I'll get something else for myself."

"Okay, I'll take the suit, but let me buy it myself," I say as I firmly hold his hand, stopping him from reaching out to his wallet. An unusual sensation runs down my spine as I feel his skin on mine. However, I add, "I can't accept it if you pay. I want this to be my gift to him, so let me handle the payment, oppa."

"I...never said that I'm paying," he says awkwardly, realizing that his response might embarrass me. I quickly let go of his hands and jump back to my place.

Realizing my hasty conclusion, I feel my cheeks grow hotter. "Oh, I'm sorry. I thought you were..." I mumble, feeling so much embarrassed. I bend my head then I look beside me for Jennie unnie's help.

But all I see is her trying to hold back her laughter.

Chanyeol oppa quickly catches the atmosphere and reassures, "It's alright, It's alright. I think there has been some kind of misunderstanding but that happens you know-"

"Sorry," I say again.

"It alright," he says again. Don't worry, don't be embarrassed."

Making our purchase and exchanging goodbyes with Chanyeol oppa, we step out of the store. I almost bolt out because I can't overcome the embarrassment. The overwhelming feeling of embarrassment lingers, making it challenging to gather my composure as we leave the store. Each step is accompanied by a hint of unease, and the awkwardness of the situation stays in my mind, making it difficult to shake off the mix of emotions.

But Jennie unnie bursts out laughing as the door closes behind us.

"Unnie!" A shout and whine come out of my mouth with annoyance.

"I'm sorry, Rosie. I can't help it," she says while laughing, "Why would you think he would buy that expensive-ass suit for you? Are you two even that close?"

"We're not. I know I was stupid, now stop it. I'm already dying of embarrassment," I rub my face and groan. Unnie finally stops laughing. Why am I even feeling this much embarrassment? It's not like I have to look cool in front of him.

"That was a heck of a drama!" She says as we walk down the pavement.

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Jennie's POV
30th July, 6:44 pm
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A notification appears on my phone's screen, disrupting my peace while watching Netflix. I pick it up and discover texts from the person that person.

Jeon Jungkook
Hey
Are you at home?
I'm near your dorm.

Me
Yes
Ok
Where exactly are you?

Jeon Jungkook
I'm in front of the gate.

Me
Alright, stay there


Sighing, I mutter about how nobody seems to leave me be today. I close my laptop and let out a groan that lasts for a couple of minutes, annoyed that I had to shut it down when I had intended to binge-watch it. But this hide-and-seek can't keep going on with Jungkook. I need to put an end to it. Determined to address the issue, I decide to confront the person responsible.

I throw on a long sweater over my night suit, indicating to my fellow group members that stepping out for a moment, and leave our dorm.

Making my way to the gate, I spot a figure cloaked in black, a hood obscuring their face. I couldn't help but think that they resembled the grim reaper. Intrigued, I approached the person and mumbled to myself, "Why does he resemble the grim reaper?" Gathering my courage, I addressed him directly, "Excuse me?"

He turned around and recognized me, saying, "Oh, Jennie-shhi... hi?"

"Yes. Jeon Jungkook, correct?"

"That's me."

And then what? We stand in awkward silence, unsure of how to proceed. We instinctively distance ourselves a bit, both due to the discomfort and the ongoing Covid situation. And obviously, rumours. I signal for him to enter our enclosed residential complex, and together, we pass through the front gate. The security guard opens it without any objection upon spotting me.

The city's bustling energy subsides into a hushed calm as we enter the residential area. He takes off his mask, revealing his face. Fortunately, the lack of people in the area due to Covid makes mask removal less of an issue for us, celebrities. We are used to wearing masks, whether due to Covid precautions or to evade fans and stalkers.

Without the mask, he appears less like the grim reaper. But I feel more tense than before. The presence of a BTS member beside me in a public setting feels more intimidating than being around grim reapers, although I've never encountered one. I can already envision the potential backlash if our presence here together becomes known, and that is truly frightening.

Breaking the silence, I venture, "So..."

He gets straight to the point, "I genuinely apologize for that day" and bows down at a ninety-degree angle.

"Apology accepted," I respond, "That was rather immature," I add quickly.

"Smoking?" he inquires, looking puzzled.

"Not that," I reply shaking my head, "I was referring to abruptly leaving without a word."

"Ah, right. That was indeed childish of me," he nods in acceptance, his expression reflecting acknowledgement "I'll apologize for that, too. Sorry."

"But I also advise you against smoking," I interject, my tone carrying a note of concern, "As your elder."

He chuckles, a lighthearted gleam in his eyes as he asks, "Alright, but you'll keep that incident confidential, won't you?"

"Of course," I reassure him, a warm smile on my face. "I'm not here to cause trouble for others or ruin your career."

Our laughter fills the air, and then a comfortable silence settles in for a few moments. Beneath the canvas of a velvety night, we set out for a leisurely stroll. The balmy breeze caresses our skin, inviting us to revel in the warm embrace of the season. Streetlights softly light our path, guiding us through the familiar streets. Walking alongside one another, we bask in the peaceful ambience, savouring quiet moments on this enchanting summer night.

"So... how's everything been?" he asks as we stroll along the street. The occasional chirping of crickets provides a gentle soundtrack to our conversation.

"Pretty good," I replied, "mostly focused on work, work, and more work."

"You were in LA a few weeks back, though, right?" he inquired, pointing his finger at me. The symphony of cicadas provides a melodic backdrop to our footsteps.

"Yes, it was enjoyable but also quite  exhausting," I share, curious how he knew about it, I then ask, "How do you know that anyway?"

"C'mon, everyone knows it," he says looking at the windows of the apartments as they spill out cozy room lights, offering us a glimpse of the lives of those who are nested there. He adds, "You and Rosé-sshi were suddenly spotted in LA."

"Oh, I see," I forcefully let out a chuckle. Since when did these other celebrities start getting curious about us and observing us?
O

ut of the blue, he poses the question, "Can I address you as noona?"

"Ah- that was unexpected...and irrelevant," I muse, a sense of unease creeping inside of me.

"I mean, we debuted before you, so technically, I'm your sunbae. But that's only within our work," he explains using his hands to emphasize his point.

"Let me get this straight," I ask, attempting to grasp his intention, "You're suggesting that you'd like to refer to me as Noona, personally?"

"Yeah", he replies and the unease inside me gets more palpable.

"Sure, you can call me noona. Although I highly doubt that we will cross paths again," I remark, almost immediately regretting my words as they escape me, dampening the mood.

For a few moments, silence envelops us as we continue walking side by side. Then, unexpectedly, he comes to a halt right before me, causing me to pause as well. We stand face to face.

"Or maybe we will," he responds, a smile gracing his lips, "The future is unpredictable, after all."

I find myself in an uncomfortable predicament, lost for words because he might be right. His point is valid. I decide to take it cool. We start walking again.

"Well, I can't argue with that," I respond, conveying a sense of understanding. I add, "I'll call you by your name then, Jungkook."

"Sure, noona" he laughs softly.

Some moments pass in the blink of an eye. He suddenly stops and exclaims in surprise, "Wait, where's my mask?!"

"Huh?" I ask, "Didn't you place it inside your pocket?"

"Yes, I did but I can't find it now" he says as he searched thoroughly inside his pockets, "Maybe it fell somewhere, ugh!"

I let out a sigh, and he groans once more in frustration, saying, "How am I supposed to get home like this? I can't be recognized by the public!"

"I think I can help you" I say without thinking twice.

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