𝐍𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | 𝐍𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐚 𝐑𝐢𝐤𝐢 (𝐍𝐢-𝐊𝐢)

EPISODE 5

NI-KI P.O.V

Three months. That's how long I've been dating Aecha, and yet, here I am, still keeping our relationship under wraps. It's not that I'm hiding her—I'm just not quite ready to share this secret with the other members yet. Though, let's be honest, they're already suspicious. The way they tease me about my phone habits, saying I'm glued to it all day, doesn't exactly help.

Tonight was one of those exciting, nerve-wracking days. We were all getting ready to hit the stage, and my heart was racing with a mix of excitement and... well, a little anxiety. As we stepped out into the glaring lights and roaring crowd, I couldn't help but feel a thrill. The energy was electric, and the anticipation of performing was a rush like no other.

As the music began, I was in my element, waving at the fans with a broad smile. But then, something caught my eye. Among the sea of faces, I spotted someone unmistakable—Aecha. My heart skipped a beat. There she was, looking as radiant as ever. Her presence in the crowd was like a beacon of light in the midst of our performance.

I must have looked completely stunned because she saw me and burst into a laugh, waving enthusiastically. My face lit up, and I waved back, trying to keep my composure. The performance felt even more exhilarating with her watching me.

The moment we finished our set, I was buzzing with a mix of relief and anticipation. The excitement didn't end there. It was time to announce the winners. The tension in the air was almost unbearable, but when they called our name, a rush of joy surged through me. Confetti exploded around us, and I couldn't stop grinning.

While the others were giving their speeches, I stole glances at Aecha. She was beaming, her eyes sparkling with pride. She even sent me a flying kiss, which made my heart flutter uncontrollably. I couldn't help but smile even wider.

After the performance, back in the green room, the staff were congratulating us, and the buzz of success was palpable. But I had something more pressing on my mind. I needed to see Aecha. I had already prepared a little excuse to escape the group's attention.

"Ugh... hyung," I started, catching Jungwon's eye.

"Hm?" he replied, looking up from his phone.

"I must go meet someone important, so I'll see you guys later," I said, trying to sound casual.

Sunoo raised an eyebrow. "Who are you meeting?"

"Someone important," I repeated, hoping they'd drop it.

Jay chimed in, his voice teasing. "Is this the same important person you text all day?"

I hesitated, then muttered, "I..."

Heeseung narrowed his eyes, suspicion evident. "Is there something you're hiding...?"

"No..." I said, shaking my head.

Jake gave me a knowing look. "Hmm... fine. Go, but come back quickly, okay?"

I nodded eagerly, barely containing my excitement. As soon as they left, I dialed Aecha's number with trembling hands.

"Hello?" her sweet voice came through the phone.

"Hey! Let's meet at the park," I said, trying to keep my tone casual but failing miserably.

"Okay!" she replied, her enthusiasm matching mine.

I rushed to the park, my heart racing with anticipation. I barely had time to catch my breath before I felt a warm hug from behind. I didn't even need to turn around to know who it was. I spun around, and there she was—Aecha, with a bright, beaming smile.