Unevitable | Ryeji |

Chapter 49: First

Ryujin's Pov:

A year has passed, and everything has changed so much. The corruption in the government is slowly fading, thanks to Mrs. Hwang’s bold move in reporting it to the UN. She’s even been nominated to be the next president, and it feels like the city is finally heading in the right direction.

As for Yeji and me, things have been nothing short of amazing. Our relationship is stronger than ever. We’ve gone on countless dates, helped out with her mom’s cases, and spent time hanging out with our friends. Life has been hectic, but we’ve managed to carve out moments of peace and happiness together.

And today? Today is special—our first anniversary.

I can’t believe it’s been a whole year since we officially became a couple. It feels like just yesterday we were teasing each other and figuring out how to navigate our feelings. Now, we’re stronger than ever, and I couldn’t be happier.

As I prepare for the day, planning out how to surprise her, I smile to myself, thinking about all the memories we’ve made and the future we’re building together. Tonight is going to be perfect, and I’m determined to make it a day she’ll never forget.

The day has been a whirlwind of excitement. I’ve been planning this anniversary for weeks now, wanting to make it perfect for Yeji. From the moment we woke up, I’ve been dropping small hints that something special was coming, but she has no idea what I’ve really got planned.

By late afternoon, I’m standing in front of a mirror, adjusting my outfit and going over the details in my mind. Dinner is set at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city, a place with soft lights and a beautiful view—one I know Yeji will love. Afterward, I’ve planned a walk along the riverside, a spot we used to go to when we first started dating. It’s sentimental, and I want to remind her of how far we’ve come together.

As the evening approaches, I finally make my way to Yeji’s place, a smile playing on my lips as I knock on the door. When she opens it, I’m momentarily speechless. She looks stunning, dressed in a simple yet elegant outfit, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

“You ready?” I ask, offering her my hand.

Yeji grins, taking my hand as she steps outside. “Ready. But you’ve been so secretive about today. What are you up to?”

I just smile, trying to keep the excitement from bubbling over. “You’ll see.”

As we arrive at the restaurant, Yeji’s eyes widen as she takes in the view. The city lights twinkle below us, and the soft glow from the lanterns creates a warm, intimate atmosphere. “Ryu, this is beautiful,” she says softly, her eyes filled with awe.

“I’m glad you like it,” I reply, pulling out her chair and sitting across from her. “I wanted tonight to be special.”

Throughout dinner, we laugh and reminisce about the past year—our awkward first date, our inside jokes, the nights spent staying up late just talking. There’s an ease between us now, a comfort that only comes with time and trust.

After dinner, we take that walk along the riverside, hand in hand. The cool evening breeze brushes against us, and the sound of the water is soothing. We find our usual spot, a bench by the river, and sit down together, the city lights reflecting on the water.

Yeji rests her head on my shoulder, and for a moment, everything feels perfect.

“I can’t believe it’s been a year,” she whispers, her voice soft but filled with emotion. “It feels like time has flown by, but at the same time, I can’t imagine life without you.”

I smile, my heart swelling with love for her. “Me neither. It’s been the best year of my life.”

There’s a brief pause before I turn to face her, my heart pounding slightly in my chest. “Actually, there’s something I wanted to say.”