"Guys," Namjoon called out as he entered the dinning room where the others were seated together having breakfast.

"What's the matter?" Seokjin asked.

"Yeah, hyung. What's up?" Taehyung asked, mouth full of scrambled egg and mushrooms.

"Yah! Chew and swallow first, then talk!" Yoongi scolded, nudging his arm.

Taehyung swallowed with a loud gulp and gave the older a boxy smile, receiving a smack in return.

Namjoon rolled his eyes, ignoring the commotion they were creating at the table.

"We've got a meeting to attend this evening. Bang PD-nim has requested us all to be present for it," Namjoon informed.

"Aw shucks. That means we can't take Jungkook out for dinner tonight?"

Hoseok gave him an incredulous look, just as Taehyung clapped a hand over his mouth.

"Secret dinner," Hoseok gritted out and Yoongi facepalmed as Jungkook giggled at them.

"Unbelievable, Taehyung," Seokjin sighed.

"I'm sorry," Taehyung squeaked in defense, "it slipped out."

"This is why you should never tell Taehyung secrets," Jimin commented and Taehyung fake gasped.

"Hey, I'm an excellent secret keeper."

"Sure you are. We just got a view of it," Yoongi commented, sarcastically.

"Guys!" Namjoon called out to get their attention, "Taehyung's right though. We'll have to cancel the dinner reservations we made."

Seokjin sighed.

"It's okay. There's no need to feel dejected. Having dinner together with you guys in the dorm is more than enough of a birthday present for me. I don't need fancy. I just...need you guys."

The members cooed.

"Ayye, our baby. When did you grow up, maknae?" Hoseok said, pulling his cheeks.

"Ahh, hyung. Stop," Jungkook whined.

Their laughter rang out in the dinning room.

1 September, 2023
To be continued . . .