Women in Love | A Winrina Romance

Closer Than Ever

The buzz around Karina's new role as the global ambassador for "Les Merveilles" spread quickly, sending waves through both the K-pop and fashion worlds. Fans were ecstatic, and media outlets couldn't stop talking about her crossover into high fashion. But as exciting as it was, Karina's mind was focused on one thing: the upcoming Seoul Fashion Week. Winter would be there. They hadn't seen each other since Paris, but the texts and late-night phone calls between them had kept the connection alive.

Karina sat in the makeup chair, preparing for a photoshoot to promote her partnership with "Les Merveilles". The photoshoot was being held at an upscale studio in Gangnam, and the air buzzed with excitement as stylists and assistants rushed around, getting everything ready.

Her phone, sitting on the vanity in front of her, buzzed with a message. She glanced at the screen and smiled.

Winter: "Looking forward to seeing you at Fashion Week. I've got front-row seats reserved for you. Make sure to shine."

Karina's heart skipped a beat, her pulse quickening at the thought of Winter being so close again. She quickly typed a reply.

Karina: "I wouldn't miss it for the world. Looking forward to seeing what you've been working on."

As she set her phone down, her stylist came over, adjusting her outfit for the shoot. Karina was dressed in a sleek black gown, the fabric clinging to her in all the right places. The look was elegant, bold, and exactly what "Les Merveilles" was known for—timeless beauty with a modern twist.

"Ready?" her manager asked, peeking into the room.

Karina nodded, taking a deep breath. She knew this shoot was important—not just for the brand but for her own personal growth. Stepping into the fashion world on this level felt monumental, and having Winter there to support her made it even more special.

The photoshoot was intense, but Karina was used to being in front of the camera. The photographer directed her through a series of poses, each one capturing her strength, elegance, and the quiet confidence she'd developed over the years. As the camera clicked, she couldn't help but think of Winter—how their worlds were slowly colliding in ways she hadn't anticipated.

After the shoot wrapped, Karina headed back to her dressing room to change. She had a few hours free before her next appointment, and her thoughts were already drifting to Fashion Week. Would she and Winter be able to find time for each other in the chaos? She hadn't allowed herself to think too far ahead, knowing how unpredictable their schedules could be.

Her phone buzzed again, and this time, it was a call from Winter. Smiling, she answered quickly.

"Hey," Winter's voice was soft, familiar, and full of warmth. "I heard your photoshoot went well."

"How do you always know what's going on?" Karina teased, sitting down on the plush couch in her dressing room.

Winter laughed, the sound sending a pleasant shiver down Karina's spine. "I have my ways. Plus, I may have spoken to a few people at "Les Merveilles" today. They're thrilled with how everything is going."

Karina leaned back, letting herself relax into the sound of Winter's voice. "It's been intense, but I'm excited. And a little nervous for Fashion Week."

"You've got nothing to be nervous about," Winter reassured her. "You'll be the star, as always. I'll make sure of it."

Karina could hear the teasing smile in Winter's voice, and it made her heart race. "You're too confident in me."

"I'm confident because I know you," Winter replied. There was a pause, and then, more softly, "I can't wait to see you again, Karina. It's been too long."

Karina's breath caught. "I've missed you too," she admitted. The words came easier now, like second nature. "I can't wait for Fashion Week."

---

The days leading up to Fashion Week were a blur of rehearsals, interviews, and meetings. Karina barely had a moment to herself, but through it all, Winter remained a steady presence—through texts, calls, and brief moments of connection.

When the opening day of Seoul Fashion Week finally arrived, the city was electric. The streets were buzzing with anticipation as designers, models, and celebrities from around the world gathered to celebrate fashion in all its glory.

Karina's schedule was packed, but she knew that today, she had one event circled in red: "Les Merveilles"'s show, where Winter's designs would debut. It was the first time she'd be attending a fashion show as more than just a guest—she was a part of this world now, and Winter's hand had gently guided her into it.

As Karina arrived at the venue, she could feel the energy in the air. Paparazzi lined the streets, snapping photos of every high-profile guest as they made their way inside. Karina's entrance caused a stir, as expected. Cameras flashed, fans called out her name, and reporters shouted questions, but she kept her composure, flashing a confident smile as she walked the red carpet.

Inside the venue, everything was breathtaking. The runway was minimalist, with soft lighting casting an ethereal glow over the space. Karina was escorted to her seat in the front row, just as Winter had promised. As she settled in, her eyes scanned the crowd, searching for Winter.

And then she saw her.

Winter was standing backstage, giving last-minute instructions to her team. She looked radiant in a tailored suit, her sharp, confident demeanor in full display. Despite the hectic energy around her, Winter exuded calm and control, like a conductor directing a symphony. Their eyes met for a brief moment, and Winter's lips curved into a subtle smile before she turned her attention back to her team.

The show began moments later, and Karina's heart raced as the first model stepped onto the runway. The designs were bold, sleek, and undeniably Winter's style—each piece a reflection of the elegance and modernity that "Les Merveilles" was known for. The collection told a story of strength and sophistication, and as the models glided down the runway, Karina couldn't help but feel a deep sense of pride for Winter.

When the final model took her walk, the applause erupted. Winter appeared on stage, walking out with quiet grace to take her bow. The crowd rose to their feet in appreciation, and Karina found herself clapping the loudest, her eyes locked on Winter's.

As the applause died down and the crowd began to disperse, Karina made her way backstage, her heart pounding. She slipped past the reporters and crew until she found Winter in a quiet corner, speaking to a few members of her team.

Winter looked up, spotting Karina instantly. Their eyes met, and without a word, Winter excused herself from the conversation and walked toward her.

"You made it," Winter said softly, her eyes bright with something unreadable.

"I wouldn't have missed it for the world," Karina replied, her voice just as soft.

Winter smiled, a real, genuine smile that made Karina's heart flutter. "Thank you. For being here. It means a lot."

Karina stepped closer, her voice low so no one could overhear. "You were incredible. I'm so proud of you."

Winter's gaze softened, and for a brief moment, the world around them seemed to fade away. It was just the two of them, standing together in a moment that felt like a promise of everything that was to come.

"We'll have to celebrate later," Winter murmured, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Somewhere a little more private."

Karina smiled, her heart soaring. "I'd like that."