CHAPTER 5: Navigating the New Reality

23 7 1
                                    

With Taehyung's secret out in the open, Jisoo's life changed overnight. Paparazzi and fans began to frequent the café, hoping to catch a glimpse of the superstar and his mysterious friend. The once quiet place where Jisoo found solace in her art now felt like a fishbowl.

One evening, as Jisoo was closing up the café, Mrs. Kim approached her with a worried expression. "Jisoo, dear, this attention is good for business, but I'm concerned about you. Is everything okay?"

Jisoo sighed, feeling the weight of the new reality pressing down on her. "It's overwhelming, Mrs. Kim. I never expected any of this. Taehyung and I just wanted to share our love for art, but now it feels like the whole world is watching."

Mrs. Kim placed a comforting hand on Jisoo's shoulder. "You're a strong girl, Jisoo. And it's clear that Taehyung cares about you. You'll get through this together."

As Jisoo headed home, she received a text from Taehyung. **"Are you okay? I heard about the crowd at the café. I’m sorry this is happening because of me."**

Jisoo replied, **"It's not your fault. I just need some time to adjust. Maybe we should meet somewhere more private next time."**

Later that week, they decided to escape the city and visit a secluded beach. As they walked along the shore, the sound of waves crashing against the rocks provided a soothing backdrop to their conversation.

"It's beautiful here," Jisoo said, letting the sea breeze tousle her hair. "Thank you for bringing me."

Taehyung smiled, his eyes reflecting the serene blue of the ocean. "I thought you could use a break. We both could."

They found a quiet spot on the sand and set up their easels. Painting in the open air, with only the sound of the ocean and the gulls, felt liberating.

"Do you ever regret being famous?" Jisoo asked, her gaze fixed on the horizon as she dipped her brush into a vibrant blue.

"Sometimes," Taehyung admitted. "It can be exhausting, never having any privacy. But the music, the fans, they make it worth it. And now, meeting you has made everything even better."

Jisoo blushed at his words. "Meeting you has been a blessing for me too, Taehyung. You've opened my eyes to so many new experiences."

As they continued to paint, a sense of calm settled over them. For a moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the world.

CANVAS OF DREAMS Where stories live. Discover now