Fated Connections ZB1 Zhang Hao x Fem reader

Chapter 31: Epilogue I - A Glimpse of Tomorrow

It had been six months since that special night in the park. Zhang Hao and Y/N had settled into their long-distance routine, making the most of every moment they could spend together. Their bond had only deepened over time, and though their lives remained busy, they found a balance that worked for them.

Y/N's career as a doctor had progressed smoothly. She had recently been recognized for her hard work and dedication at the hospital, which brought a sense of fulfillment she hadn't felt before. Though her days were often long and tiring, she had learned to take time for herself—and for Zhang Hao.

Zhang Hao's career with Zerobaseone was thriving. The group had completed another successful tour, and their fanbase continued to grow with every release. Zhang Hao had become more confident in his role as a performer, yet his heart always remained grounded in the love he had for Y/N.

It was a quiet Sunday morning. Y/N was sitting on her balcony, sipping a cup of tea while the sun slowly rose in the sky. Her phone buzzed beside her, and a smile spread across her face when she saw the familiar name on the screen.

Zhang Hao: "Good morning, my love. How's your day so far?"

Y/N quickly typed a reply.

Y/N: "It's just starting, but it's a beautiful morning. I wish you were here."

A few seconds later, her phone rang. She answered with a grin, already feeling her heart flutter at the sound of his voice.

"Hey," Zhang Hao's voice came through, soft and warm. "I wish I was there too."

They spent the next hour talking about everything and nothing—catching up on the little details of their lives that they didn't always have time to share during the week. Y/N listened as Zhang Hao told her about a new song he was working on, his excitement palpable even through the phone.

"Maybe I'll sing it to you next time I'm home," Zhang Hao teased.

"I'd love that," Y/N replied, smiling to herself.

As their conversation drifted, Y/N hesitated for a moment before bringing up something that had been on her mind. "Hao, I've been thinking... about us."

Zhang Hao was quiet for a second, then responded gently, "What's on your mind?"

"I know we've been doing well with the distance and everything, but..." Y/N paused, choosing her words carefully. "I miss you. I miss being able to see you more often."

Zhang Hao's voice softened. "I miss you too, Y/N. Every day. What are you thinking?"

Y/N took a deep breath. "I don't know yet. Maybe it's time we started talking about what the future looks like for us. If we keep going like this, or if there's a way we can... be together more."

Zhang Hao's heart swelled at her words. He had been thinking the same thing for a while now. "I've been thinking about that too," he admitted. "It's hard, not being able to see you as often as I want. But I know we'll figure it out. Maybe we can talk more about it next time I'm home?"

Y/N smiled, feeling reassured by his words. "Yeah. Let's do that."

There was a sense of calm between them as they continued talking. The future still felt uncertain, but they knew that whatever came their way, they would face it together.

As the conversation wound down, Zhang Hao's voice became more tender. "Y/N?"

"Yeah?"

"I don't know what the future holds for us exactly, but I do know one thing: I want you in it. No matter where life takes us, I want you by my side."

Y/N's heart filled with warmth, tears prickling at the corners of her eyes. "I want that too, Hao."

They sat in silence for a moment, letting the weight of their feelings settle between them. It wasn't a formal promise, but it was enough. They had survived the hardest parts of their journey, and now, they were ready to face whatever came next—together.

"I love you," Zhang Hao whispered.

"I love you too," Y/N replied softly.

As Y/N sat on her balcony, phone in hand, she felt a deep sense of peace. Life wasn't perfect, and there would always be challenges ahead, but she and Zhang Hao had proven time and time again that they were stronger together. The future was theirs to build, and they were ready for whatever came next.

For now, though, they were content in the present—cherishing each moment, each conversation, and each promise of love that bound them closer together.