BLOSSOMS IN THE SPOLIGHT | HEESEUNG

6: Moments of Clarity

Over the next few weeks, Jia's routine became a blend of her florist studies and time with the boys. Each day brought her closer to them, and she felt like she was slowly becoming part of their family. She continued visiting flower markets, taking inspiration for her future shop, and filling her notebook with sketches and ideas. And when the boys weren't busy with their hectic schedules, she spent evenings hanging out at the dorm.

One afternoon, while Jia was arranging some flowers she had bought, Sunghoon walked into the living room, his eyes immediately drawn to the colorful blooms spread across the table. "Wow, those look amazing," he said, leaning over to inspect her work.

Jia smiled, appreciating his enthusiasm. "Thanks. I'm trying out a new arrangement style. What do you think?"

He studied it thoughtfully, his eyes softening. "It's beautiful. You've got such an eye for this."

Jia felt her heart warm at his compliment. "I'm glad you think so. It's been a lot of trial and error, but I'm learning."

Sunghoon gave her an encouraging smile. "Well, it shows. You're going to make an incredible florist, Jia."

His words lingered in the air between them, and Jia felt a sense of pride. Sunghoon's support meant a lot to her. Their friendship had grown strong, and there was a warmth in their interactions that made her feel safe and appreciated. She felt like she could be herself around him, and she valued that more than anything.

Just then, Jay entered the room, his casual stride confident as he joined them. "Hey, Jia. What's going on here?"

Jia grinned, showing him the arrangement she was working on. "Just putting together some flowers I picked up at the market."

Jay's eyes lit up with interest. "You're really good at this. You've been working hard, huh?"

Jia nodded, appreciating his observant nature. "Yeah, it's been my dream for a long time, so I'm trying to make the most of it while I'm here."

Jay leaned against the table, his expression thoughtful. "It's cool to see someone so passionate about their dream. It's inspiring, actually."

Jia felt a sense of camaraderie with Jay. He was more reserved than the others, but he had a depth to him that she admired. As they talked, she realized that behind his calm exterior was a genuinely caring and supportive person.

The three of them chatted for a while, laughing and sharing stories. Jia felt at ease in their presence. She was grateful for these moments, where she could be herself and connect with each of them in different ways.

Later that evening, the group decided to have a movie night to relax and unwind from their busy schedules. Jake, as always, took the lead in picking the movie, insisting on a classic action film that the group could all enjoy. Jia was nestled comfortably between Sunghoon and Heeseung, a blanket draped over her lap as she settled in for the movie.

As the film played, Jia felt herself getting more absorbed in the story. The room was filled with laughter and playful comments as the boys reacted to the action scenes, and she found herself laughing along with them. It felt like she was part of something special—a shared experience that brought them closer together.

At one point, Heeseung leaned closer, his voice low as he whispered, "Enjoying the movie?"

Jia turned to him, their faces just inches apart. "Yeah, it's fun. I didn't expect to enjoy it this much."

Heeseung's eyes sparkled in the dim light. "I'm glad. You know, it's nice having you here, Jia. Things feel different in a good way."

Jia's heart fluttered at his words. "I'm glad to be here too."