Chapter Fifty-Five: In Secret

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I took a deep breath as I looked at myself in the mirror, adjusting the baseball cap on my head and the oversized sunglasses over my eyes

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I took a deep breath as I looked at myself in the mirror, adjusting the baseball cap on my head and the oversized sunglasses over my eyes. I couldn't believe I was doing this, but the thrill of the moment was too exhilarating to pass up. Jiwoong had suggested we take a spontaneous trip to Jeju island, and I couldn't resist the idea of going on a secret date in disguise. We had been dating for a few weeks now, but we had decided to keep our relationship under wraps for fear of the academy's strict no-dating policy.

I quickly rushed out of my dorm room and into the lobby, where Jiwoong was waiting for me. He had put on a similar disguise, with a cap and sunglasses, but he still looked handsome as ever. I couldn't help but blush as he complimented me on my outfit, a simple t-shirt and jeans combo that I had thrown on in a hurry.

As we walked out of the dorms, I felt a rush of excitement at the thought of being on a secret date with him. We had always been careful to keep our relationship hidden from everyone, but this was different. It was just the two of us, away from the academy and its prying eyes.

We arrived in Jeju and spent the day exploring the island, visiting quaint little shops and trying out local delicacies. Jiwoong was a perfect gentleman, holding my hand and guiding me through the crowds of tourists. It was surreal to be with him like this, away from the pressures of the academy and the competition. To be with him in public, despite the heavy black wig making me sweat.

As we walked on the beach, the waves crashing at our feet, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. Jiwoong took my hand and gave it a squeeze, as if he could sense my thoughts. As the sun began to set, Jiwoong led me to a secluded spot on the beach, where he had set up a picnic. There was a soft blanket spread out on the sand, and a basket filled with my favorite foods. I couldn't believe he had gone through all this trouble just for me.

"Hey," he said, turning to face me after he had poured me a glass of champagne. "I have something for you."

I looked at him curiously as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. My heart began to race as he opened it, revealing a stunning silver promise ring.

"Allison, I know we've only been together for a short time, but I want you to know that I'm serious about us," he said, taking my hand and sliding the ring onto my finger.

I looked at the ring, sparkling in the sunlight, and then back at Jiwoong, tears prickling at the corners of my eyes. "I don't know what to say," I whispered.

"You don't have to say anything," he said, pulling me into his arms. "Just know that I love you, and I want to be with you for a long time."

I hugged him back tightly, feeling overwhelmed with emotion. "I love you too," I said, my voice cracking.

We stood there on the beach for a while longer, holding each other close and watching the waves. The rest of the night was a blur of laughter, jokes, and stolen kisses. We watched the stars twinkle in the sky. Eventually, we made our way back to our hotel room, where we spent the rest of the night cuddled up together, planning our future.

"I can't wait for this competition to end," Jiwoong said, running his fingers through my hair, while we lay naked next to each other in bed. "If we don't make it, at least we could travel the world together, see all the places we've always dreamed of."

I smiled at the thought, imagining all the adventures we could have. "That sounds amazing," I said. "But we will make it into that debut group together, Ji. I know we will."

"We'll make it work," he said confidently. "I know we can do anything as long as we're together."

I snuggled closer to him, feeling content and happy. "I'm so glad we took this trip," I said. "It's been perfect."

"Me too," he said, kissing my forehead. "And I promise, there will be many more perfect moments to come."

Yet, as I lay there in bed, listening to his soft snoring. I could feel the weight of reality settling back in. We had to keep our relationship hidden, for fear of getting kicked out of the competition. It was a risk we were both willing to take, but it wasn't easy.

It will never be easy.

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