Jungkook took a deep breath, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and nerves as he stood outside the café. He gently held Jimin's hand, feeling the warmth and softness of his skin. “Are you ready?” he asked, glancing at Jimin’s face, which wore a blend of apprehension and anticipation.

“I think so,” Jimin replied, his voice steadier than he felt. He focused on the sounds around him—the chatter and laughter coming from inside the café, a sound that both thrilled and intimidated him.

Jungkook squeezed Jimin’s hand reassuringly. “They’re going to love you, I promise.”

With a soft nod, Jimin took a deep breath as Jungkook led him through the door. The familiar aroma of coffee and pastries filled the air, and Jimin could hear the clinking of cups and the hum of friendly conversations.

“Hey, guys!” Jungkook called out, his voice brightening the atmosphere.

“Jungkook!” Jin and Namjoon looked up from their table, excitement evident on their faces. They had been eagerly awaiting this moment ever since Jungkook had shared the news about Jimin.

“Meet Jimin!” Jungkook said, stepping closer while still holding Jimin’s hand.

“Hi, Jimin! It’s so nice to finally meet you! I'm Jin” Jin said, his voice warm and welcoming. He reached out his hand for Jimin to shake.

“Hi,” Jimin said, feeling a bit nervous but excited as he extended his hand. Jungkook gently guided Jimin’s hand to Jin’s, and Jimin felt the familiar warmth of a handshake.

“Nice to meet you too,” Jimin replied, focusing on Jin's friendly tone.

Namjoon stood as well, his demeanor friendly. “Welcome to our little group, Jimin. We’re really glad you’re here. I'm Namjoon” He stepped forward, and Jungkook guided Jimin’s hand to shake Namjoon’s.

“Thanks, Namjoon,” Jimin said, shaking his hand and feeling the smoothness of Namjoon’s palm, comforted by the friendly energy coming from both of them.

Jimin smiled, feeling a sense of warmth and acceptance as he listened to their playful banter.

“Have a seat!” Jin gestured to the empty chair. Jungkook helped Jimin into the chair, gently directing him until he was settled. “We’ve heard so much about you.”

As they settled in, the conversation flowed easily. Jin and Namjoon shared funny stories about their past experiences with Jungkook, and Jimin listened intently, enjoying the rhythm of their laughter and camaraderie.

“Jungkook says you tell great jokes!” Jin encouraged, his eyes twinkling with enthusiasm.

“I’ll try,” Jimin said with a small chuckle, feeling more at ease. “What kind of jokes do you like?”

“Dad jokes!” Jin declared, making Jimin grin. “The worse, the better!”

With a sense of comfort growing within him, Jimin recalled a joke he loved. “Alright, listen to this one: Why don’t skeletons ever fight each other?”

“Why?” Namjoon asked, intrigued.

“Because they don’t have the guts!” Jimin grinned, and the table burst into laughter.

“Okay, that’s actually really good!” Jin exclaimed, clapping his hands. “I’m impressed!”

Jungkook watched with a sense of pride as Jimin relaxed and enjoyed himself. He could hear the difference in Jimin's voice; the more they laughed, the lighter it became.

During a pause in the conversation, Jimin felt the table for the drink menus, his fingers gliding over the smooth surface. “What are you guys drinking?” he asked, trying to engage further.

“I got a caramel latte,” Jin replied, a smile in his voice. “It’s my favorite. How about you?”

“I’ll just have whatever Jungkook is having,” Jimin said, turning his head slightly toward Jungkook. “What’s that?”

“Black coffee,” Jungkook answered, pouring some for Jimin from a nearby pitcher, careful not to spill. He placed the cup in front of Jimin, guiding his hand to it. “Here you go.”

“Thanks,” Jimin said, taking a sip and savoring the warm flavor. He felt the smooth surface of the cup, allowing the warmth to seep into his fingers.

“You know,” Jimin said after a moment, “I have a friend named Taehyung who loves to tell jokes too. I’d love for you guys to meet him sometime.”

“We’d love that!” Namjoon replied enthusiastically. “The more, the merrier.”

“Yeah, definitely!” Jin added, his smile genuine. “We could all hang out together sometime.”

As the conversation continued, Jimin felt a warmth in his heart, knowing he was accepted for who he was. The apprehension that had gripped him earlier melted away, replaced by the joy of newfound friendship.

“Thanks for bringing me here, Jungkook,” Jimin said quietly, grateful for the support. “I didn’t expect to feel so comfortable.”

“I knew you would,” Jungkook replied softly, giving Jimin’s hand a gentle squeeze. “You’re amazing, and anyone would be lucky to have you in their lives.”

Jimin's heart swelled at the words, feeling a sense of hope for the future and for the friendships he was beginning to forge. With Jungkook by his side and Jin and Namjoon welcoming him with open arms, Jimin felt like he truly belonged.