𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗥

𝗑𝗂𝗑.

Despite being styled together for the event, Jeonghan and Jiwon's manager event manager, Do Sang Hyeon, insisted they take separate cars. "It's to avoid any unnecessary suspicion," he explained with a knowing look. Jeonghan slipped into the first Maserati that waited for him, while Jiwon followed twenty minutes later in a sleek, black Porsche, the engine purring like a contented cat. Even with the time gap, they managed to capture plenty of pictures together on the red carpet, much to the delight of their fans.

The throng of admirers crowded the area, a vibrant testament to their unwavering support. Jiwon found herself momentarily caught up in the excitement, signing autographs and posing for photos. Due to the sheer volume of fans, she had been assigned three bodyguards, their presence a reassuring barrier against the overwhelming crowd. Eventually, when she finally made her way inside, it was time for her least favourite part: the photo op.

Jiwon dreaded the flashing cameras and the incessant clicking of shutters, each sound like a small explosion in her ears. Thankfully, after a few obligatory shots, several other attendees, including Jeonghan, joined her. "I was getting so bored waiting for you," he whispered conspiratorially as he leaned closer to pose beside her. Jiwon chuckled softly but remained silent, her heart fluttering.

Moments later, Cha Eunwoo, another dear friend, joined them, bringing a familiar warmth to the atmosphere. After what felt like an eternity of awkward smiles and forced laughter, they were finally ushered to the main runway area, a space adorned with minimalist décor and a long, elegantly decorated ramp. Rows of chairs were set up, each labelled with names, and Jiwon noticed her seat was conveniently nestled between Jeonghan's and one marked 'Rissa'.

As she entered the room, many attendees stood to acknowledge her presence, a respectful gesture that made her feel slightly bashful. Jiwon nodded graciously and settled into the front row, Jeonghan trailing behind her and drawing his fair share of admiration. Women gaped at him as he passed, and Jiwon couldn't blame them; he looked breathtaking in his tailored black suit, complete with buttoned lapels and a sophisticated notched design.

In contrast, Jiwon had chosen a simple yet elegant white dress with a square neckline and a cinched waist, an outfit that complemented her figure beautifully. Jeonghan had complimented her when she first stepped out of the dressing room, his eyes widening in awe as he exclaimed, "You look beautiful, Jiwon." Those four words had sent her heart racing, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson while a wave of nervousness washed over her.

Even now, as Jeonghan took her hand and guided her to their seats, Jiwon couldn't shake the jittery feeling that made her feel like a schoolgirl harbouring a crush. She had helped him choose the suit he wore tonight, a decision that had made her feel valued and involved. It was a refreshing change, especially compared to the aloofness she sometimes felt from Joshua.

As the host and various designers took the stage to greet the attendees, Jiwon tried to push her thoughts aside. Waiters floated around with trays of champagne and wine, but when a particularly persistent waiter approached her, she politely declined. He gawked at her refusal until Jeonghan shot him a sharp look, causing the waiter to retreat, flustered.

Jiwon was acutely aware of the cameras that seemed to zero in on her, their presence both exhilarating and stifling. She wondered what new headlines would emerge the next time she checked her phone; it was one of the many perks—and pitfalls—of being an idol.

The lights dimmed, and soft music began to fill the room. Thankfully, her earlier stomach cramps had subsided, much to her relief. As the models began to walk the runway one by one, however, Jiwon found her interest waning. Runway shows had always struck her as tedious.

To feign interest, she pulled out her phone and snapped a few pictures of the dresses that caught her eye. As she scrolled through her shots, she realised Jeonghan's face appeared in nearly everyone. If she were to post these images on Instagram, it would undoubtedly spark a flurry of dating speculations. She fought the urge to share them and refocused on the show.

An hour into the event, Jiwon's stomach rumbled audibly, cutting through the soft music. "Jeonghan," she whispered, leaning closer. He didn't take his gaze off the runway but leaned in to hear her better. "When does this end?" she asked, her voice barely above a murmur.

"In another fifteen minutes," he replied, his tone calm. Jiwon nodded, a plan forming in her mind. "Cup noodles after this is done?" Jeonghan turned in his seat, a playful smile gracing his lips. "Done," he said, his eyes twinkling. Jiwon couldn't help but grin back, her nose scrunching adorably.

As the final models walked the ramp, Jiwon felt an overwhelming sense of relief when the show concluded. However, as an ambassador for the event, she was whisked away for a special interview about the collections and styles showcased. After a few minutes of feigned enthusiasm, she finally made her escape.

At the after-party, Jiwon spotted Jeonghan deep in conversation with Fumiya, a well-known Japanese voice actor. They exchanged warm smiles before Fumiya excused himself to take a call. "Did you enjoy the show?" Jeonghan asked, sipping on a glass of sparkling water. Jiwon rolled her eyes playfully. "The fashion was fantastic, but the sitting bored me out of my mind," she confessed, her tone light.

Jeonghan laughed, the sound brightening her mood. Jiwon had met countless models and been photographed with so many different people that her cheeks ached from smiling. It wasn't that she disliked them; it was just that the social interactions drained her.

As she stood there, she felt a familiar throbbing in her lower belly, and a chill swept through her. "What did you think of it?" she asked, attempting to distract herself from her discomfort.

"It was decent. Not as exciting as the Budapest show, but still enjoyable," he replied, finishing the last of his drink. Jiwon nodded, shivering slightly as the temperature dipped lower, causing her teeth to chatter.

Jeonghan noticed her discomfort and set his glass aside. "Here," he said, removing his coat and offering it to her, his expression sincere. "You'll be cold without this."

"Jeonghan, what about you?" she protested, though her voice lacked conviction. He shook his head, a reassuring smile on his face. "I'm fine," he insisted. Gently, he helped her into the coat, his fingers brushing against her skin, sending a shiver down her spine. "We should leave," he suggested, and Jiwon nodded in agreement, grateful for his kindness.

Taking her hand, he led her through the throng of people, exchanging warm smiles with familiar faces. They opted for the elevator down to the basement, where their car awaited them. In the comfortable silence of the lift, Jiwon found herself stealing glances at Jeonghan, his side profile illuminated by the soft glow of the overhead lights.

As the elevator dinged and the doors slid open, Jeonghan guided her to the car. It was only after she had shut the door, and he began speaking to the driver in French, that Jiwon realised their hands were still intertwined, his fingers laced with hers. A wave of warmth washed over her, a mix of admiration and excitement.

Looking up at him in the dim light, she felt a rush of affection for his confident demeanour and undeniable charm. She closed her eyes, resting her head against the crook of his neck, her heartbeat quickening. At that moment, the world outside faded away, leaving only the soothing rhythm of their breaths. Jeonghan tensed for a brief moment before relaxing, wrapping his arms around her shoulders in a comforting embrace.