Sunsun au "Love at first sight [my idol, my lover]"

Chapter 14: A Love Worth Fighting For

The buzz of conversation filled the café as Alli sat quietly in the corner, staring into his cup of tea. Across from him, Zildjian's fingers gently brushed against his, a quiet reassurance in the midst of the chaos swirling around them. Alli had been trying to keep it together, but the strain of the public pressure was starting to take its toll.

The gossip sites hadn't let up. Articles speculating about their relationship continued to pop up, and fans were relentless in their curiosity. But despite it all, Zildjian had never wavered. He was still by Alli's side, offering support at every turn. And now, as they faced the prospect of going public with their relationship, Alli wasn't sure if he was ready for what was coming next.

But they weren't alone.

The door to the café swung open, and Zildjian's bandmates — Luiz Nicolai, Draco, and Travis Jamie — walked in, their faces lighting up when they saw them. Behind them was Alli's own group of friends: Akinoa, Ace, and Ate Kira, who was Akinoa's older sister. It felt like the room grew warmer with their presence, and for the first time in days, Alli felt like he could breathe.

"Hey, you two," Nicolai greeted with a grin as they all gathered around the table. "We came to check on you. We heard you've been having a rough time."

Zildjian smiled as his bandmates took their seats. "Yeah, it's been a lot, but we're getting through it."

Alli looked up at his friends, gratitude swelling in his chest. He didn't realize how much he needed their support until now. Akinoa gave him a small smile, still a little awkward after everything, but there was a sense of understanding between them. Ace sat beside him, patting him on the back.

"You're not in this alone, Alli," Ace said. "We're all here for you."

"Exactly," Akinoa chimed in. "We've got your back, no matter what."

The Support Grows

As they all settled in, the conversation flowed easily, and Alli began to feel more at ease. Zildjian's bandmates, Nicolai, Draco, and Travis, had always been a source of strength for him, but today, they were more vocal in their support.

"Look, man," Nicolai said, leaning forward, his voice serious. "We know the media's been giving you both a hard time, but we're all behind you. If this is what you want, we're ready to face whatever comes."

"Yeah," Draco added, nodding. "You and Alli are good together. We've seen it. And if anyone tries to mess with you, they'll have to go through us."

Travis smiled warmly at Alli. "It takes a lot of courage to be in the position you're in. But you've got Zildjian, and you've got all of us. We're a team. We'll make sure you're both okay."

Alli's heart swelled with emotion. He hadn't realized just how much Zildjian's friends cared — not just about Zildjian, but about him, too. Their support felt like a lifeline, pulling him out of the storm that had been swirling around him.

Zildjian squeezed his hand, leaning closer. "See? We're not alone in this. We've got everyone's support."

Alli smiled, though the fear still gnawed at him. "But what about the public? What about your career? I don't want to ruin things for you."

Before Zildjian could respond, Alli's older brother, Manager Mingyu, entered the café, followed by Zildjian's manager, Manager Wonwoo. Both men had serious but supportive expressions on their faces.

"Alli," Mingyu said as he approached the table, "you're not ruining anything. I've been following everything that's going on, and I want you to know I'm here for you. Whatever you decide, I'll back you up."