Areum stood in front of the full-length mirror, adjusting the collar of her blazer. She had gone for something professional yet elegant—the "CEO look," like Jungkook said. She wasn't a nervous teenager; she was a woman meeting a potential partner.

"It's just a dinner," she muttered to her reflection. "A dinner with a man who understands the hustle."

When she arrived at the restaurant, Jungkook was already seated. He looked even better than his videos, his hair styled perfectly, and a confident smile playing on his lips as he saw her approach.

"Areum," he said, standing up. "You look even more like a boss in person."

"And you look like you're about to film a commercial," she teased, taking the seat he offered.

The first half hour was surprisingly good. They talked about his editing process and her struggle with rising bean prices. Areum felt herself relaxing. He seemed grounded, mature, and genuinely interested in her story. Maybe, just maybe, her mother was right about this app.

But then, the appetisers arrived.

As the waiter set down a beautifully garnished dish, Areum reached for her fork. Suddenly, Jungkook reached out and caught her wrist.

"Wait! Don't touch it yet," he whispered urgently.

Areum blinked, confused. "Is something wrong with the food?"

"The lighting," he murmured, his eyes darting around the room. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, portable LED light and a mini tripod. "The way the garnish is sitting... I just need ten seconds. It's perfect for a 'First Look' story."

Areum's heart sank. "Jungkook, you said no cameras. You promised."

"This isn't a camera, it's just my phone," he said, already busy adjusting the brightness on the light. "Come on, Areum. You're a businesswoman. You know how important engagement is."

He thrust the LED light into her hand. "Here, just hold this at an angle. It'll make the sauce pop."

Areum stared at the light in her hand, then at him. He wasn't looking at her; he was looking at his screen, adjusting the focus.

"I'm not your production assistant, Jungkook," she said, her voice cold. She set the light down on the table with a firm thud.

"It's just one shot, don't be dramatic," he laughed, though his eyes stayed on the phone. "The fans love seeing 'behind the scenes' content. Just act like you're about to take a bite, okay? On three..."

Areum didn't wait for three. She grabbed her purse and stood up.

"I think you're in a committed relationship with your subscribers, Jungkook. I don't want to be the third wheel."

"Wait, Areum! The main course is coming! It's a signature dish, I already told the chef I'd tag him!"

She didn't look back. She walked out of the restaurant, the cool night air hitting her face. She felt a wave of frustration, but also a strange sense of clarity.

Her phone buzzed in her pocket almost immediately.

Jin: 

So? Is he the one? Should I start practising my 'Best Man' speech? 🎤

Areum sighed, her fingers flying over the screen.

Areum: 

Save your breath, Jin. The only thing he's interested in marrying is his tripod 🙄

Jin: 

Wait, what? Did he actually bring a tripod to a date? 💀💀💀

Areum: 

He asked me to hold his LED light like I was his intern. I'm coming to the cafe. I need actual caffeine and a person who doesn't use a ring light to see.

Jin: 

I'll have your favourite brew ready. And don't worry, I promise not to film you while you drink it. See you soon, Ari. ✨