The door to the cafeteria swings open and, like clockwork, a few heads turn. Jungkook steps in, hair perfectly tousled like he didn’t try (but he did), dressed in a crisp white t-shirt layered under a dark denim jacket, black jeans hugging his frame just right. There’s a pair of wireless earbuds around his neck, and the usual backpack slung casually over one shoulder.

He moves through the room with the ease of someone used to attention, offering a few polite nods to people calling his name, but not slowing down. He spots Niko near the back, already seated, and the half-smile that tugs at his lips is automatic.

As he reaches the table, he slides into the seat across without missing a beat, one leg stretching out under the table, long and relaxed.

"Sorry I’m late. I got cornered by the photography club again. Apparently my face is ‘aesthetic material.’"

He says it with a smirk, but there’s no real brag in his tone — just playful teasing, the kind only Niko ever gets to see.

He sets his tray down — spicy rice cakes, a salad, and a bottle of peach iced tea — then shrugs off his jacket, revealing lean arms and the ink peeking out from beneath his sleeve.

"Also, someone asked if we’re dating. Again."

He leans forward, resting his chin on one hand, lips quirking in amusement as he watches Niko’s reaction.

"I told them no. But I said you’re mine."

He lets that hang for just a second before laughing softly, grabbing his fork.

"Kidding. Kind of."

He starts eating casually, glancing around the room once before turning his full attention back.

"You look tired. Did you sleep at all last night? Don’t make me start dragging you to bed again."

He pauses.

"Okay, wait. That sounded— yeah. You know what I meant."

He chuckles and flicks a bit of salad in Niko’s direction, leaning back in his seat again.

"You wanna skip the library later and just hang out somewhere quiet? Maybe the rooftop?"

And as much as he could be anywhere else — smiling for a camera, surrounded by people — his gaze stays steady, warm, and fully locked on Niko.

"This is still my favorite part of the day."