Threads of fate

A year had passed since Jin and Jungkook had confessed their feelings for each other. Over time, their bond deepened, and they grew more comfortable expressing their affection. Whether it was a subtle touch, a shared glance, or quiet moments stolen between schedules, their connection was undeniable. However, their love had to remain private, especially in their line of work where every move was scrutinized.

When they were alone or with the members, their interactions were naturally affectionate—Jungkook leaning on Jin’s shoulder, Jin brushing Jungkook’s hair out of his face, or them sharing jokes only the two of them understood. But there were moments when they’d forget their surroundings, becoming so absorbed in each other that the rest of the world faded away.

It was during a break in one of their music video shoots that the first instance happened. The staff were busy adjusting lighting, and the members were scattered around the set. Jin and Jungkook were sitting together on a couch, Jin feeding Jungkook some snacks he’d brought from home.

“Hyung, you always remember my favorite snacks,” Jungkook said, his voice soft with affection.

Jin smiled, his hand resting lightly on Jungkook’s knee. “Of course. How could I forget anything about you?”

They didn’t notice how close they’d leaned toward each other until Namjoon’s voice cut through the air. “Hyung, Jungkook, they’re calling for us on set!”

The two of them immediately straightened, their faces flushed. Jungkook grabbed a water bottle, pretending to take a sip, while Jin cleared his throat, adjusting his posture. Namjoon hid a smirk, walking away to give them a moment to collect themselves.

This wasn’t an isolated incident. During a live broadcast, Jungkook had unconsciously leaned his head on Jin’s shoulder while laughing at a fan comment. Taehyung, sitting beside them, immediately leaned forward, drawing attention to himself.

“ARMY, look at this funny comment!” Taehyung said, pointing at the screen, effectively diverting the fans’ attention. Meanwhile, Jin subtly shifted away from Jungkook, patting his knee under the table as a silent apology.

In the dorm, the members were far more playful about it. One evening, as everyone gathered in the living room, Jin and Jungkook were sitting too close on the couch, their hands brushing as they shared a blanket.

“Hyung, Jungkook-ah, do you need us to leave the room?” Yoongi teased, raising an eyebrow.

“Or maybe we should call the staff to film this ‘special behind-the-scenes’ moment,” Hobi added, laughing.

Jin rolled his eyes, grabbing a pillow and tossing it at Hobi. “Yah! We’re just sitting!”

“Sure, hyung,” Jimin teased, winking at Jungkook, who was trying to hide his red face behind the blanket.

Despite the teasing, the members knew when to step in seriously. During an award show, Jin and Jungkook were seated next to each other, their hands occasionally brushing under the table. Taehyung, sitting on Jungkook’s other side, subtly nudged him.

“Not here,” Taehyung whispered, his tone kind but firm. Jungkook nodded, pulling his hand back and focusing on the stage.

Later that night, Jin found Jungkook in the practice room, looking guilty. “Hyung, I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking...”

Jin smiled, pulling him into a brief hug. “It’s okay, Kookie. We just have to be more careful, that’s all.”

The members had become adept at protecting Jin and Jungkook without making them feel awkward. If they noticed cameras or staff watching too closely, they’d casually position themselves to block the view. They’d redirect conversations or activities if things seemed too obvious.