12: Clearing the Air

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The result of the Youtube video was beyond expectation, Daniel's skill of portraying messages through his videos were unimaginable. Although Hwayoung was not part of the main video, he successfully portrayed the restaurant manager role in the restaurant which was the key to calm the storm. He also created a great chemistry between Jinhwan and Onew, which raised Jinhwan's popularity, hands in hands with people wanting to try the food by the charming Chef.

While Hwayoung started back a bit on her social media game, the netizens have been calmer to her and the rumor. They slowly forgot about the rumor of her and Onew already.

Bora also apologized to Hwayoung, and it turns out Jinhwan's dad has been pressuring her on their relationship that gave her stress. Since Jinhwan was also busy with the restaurant case, he didn't notice it. As she struggled from the pressure, she just ended up throwing a tantrum to Jinhwan without telling him the real problem.

That night, they gathered to celebrate the progress. Hwayoung, Jinhwan, Jiwoo, Hajin, Bora, Daniel and his wife. They stayed after the restaurant closed, Hwayoung was the one hosting it. She had time as she no longer had private dining sessions since Shinee, by choice.

They gathered around a large table in the staff dining space, sharing stories and enjoying the meal. Hwayoung, though trying to stay relaxed, could feel the subtle tension in the air.

"So, Hwayoung-ssi," Jiwoo began with a mischievous smile, "what's the real deal between you and Onew?"

Hwayoung's cheeks flushed slightly as she tried to maintain her composure. "We're just friends, CDnim. He's been really supportive, especially with the restaurant."

Hajin chimed in, "Come on, there's got to be more to it. The chemistry that you have between each other isn't exactly 'just friends' material."

"I remembered him running when he knew you were the one who came up with all this idea that night. That was not an 'only friend' type of determination." Jiwoo added, giving a teasing look at Hwayoung then to Hajin to join her, "Did it go well with you guys?"

Hwayoung laughed nervously, shaking her head. "Seriously, we're just friends. He's a great guy, but I need to be careful, especially with his celebrity status."

Jinhwan, who has known Hwayoung all his life, only smiled meaningfully at the corner. Bora slyly took the chance to get confirmation from Jinhwan, "What do you think, Oppa? Is Hwayoung unnie telling us the truth?" Letting the other hear her question.

He looked at Hwayoung checking her expression, he wouldn't dare taint her trust and their sibling-like relationship over things like this, "Well—" he stuttered.

Before the conversation could go any further, the door opened, and Jinki walked in, fashionably late. Jinhwan had secretly invited him, so they could celebrate together after the storm. He looked at Jinki closely as he greeted everyone, hoping his presence would clarify things themselves without coming from his mouth.

Jinki greeted everyone with his usual charming smile and took a seat next to Hwayoung, who looked both surprised and relieved to see him. The room's attention shifted towards him almost instantly.

"Onew-ssi, we were just talking about you," Jiwoo said with a sly grin. "Care to share the truth about your relationship with Hwayoung?"

Jinki glanced at Hwayoung, who gave him a pleading look, and then back at the group. He leaned back in his chair, looking relaxed and composed. "I could say Hwayoung and I have a special connection," he said calmly. "She's an amazing person, and we've grown close over the past few months."

Hajin raised an eyebrow. "Special connection, huh? That sounds pretty vague."

Jinki chuckled, maintaining his composure. "Well, I can say that I care a lot about her. She is one of the people that I will cheer on in life."

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