BLOSSOMS IN THE SPOLIGHT | HEESEUNG

9: Reality Check

Jia's days continued in a whirlwind of flowers, workshops, and moments with the Enhypen members. It felt like she was living a double life—immersed in her passion during the day and then stepping into their vibrant, unpredictable world each night. And, despite the budding feelings she had for Heeseung, she kept reminding herself to keep things casual. After all, they were in a group that depended on their tight bond. The last thing she wanted was to complicate things.

However, that resolve became increasingly difficult to maintain. Heeseung was charming, and the more time she spent with him, the harder it was to ignore the way her heart leapt at his playful words and lingering glances. But, deep down, a small voice warned her that Heeseung might not be as genuine as he appeared.

One evening, Jia found herself at the dorm with the group after another long practice session. They were gathered in the living room, sprawled out on the couches and floor, relaxing with snacks and a movie playing in the background. Jia was nestled comfortably between Jake and Sunoo, but her eyes kept drifting toward Heeseung, who was seated across the room next to a sleepy Ni-ki.

Heeseung caught her gaze and flashed her a quick, knowing smile. It was the kind of smile that made her heart flutter. She glanced away, feeling the familiar warmth creeping up her cheeks. She was starting to wonder if she was reading too much into everything. Maybe there was more to Heeseung than his playful demeanor. Maybe, just maybe, there was something real between them.

But then, something happened that made her heart drop.

Jia watched as Sunoo, who was sitting next to her, groaned dramatically. "Heeseung, you're always doing this. You've got to stop flirting with everyone."

Heeseung laughed, leaning back casually. "I can't help it. It's just my charm."

Sunghoon, who was seated next to Sunoo, rolled his eyes but grinned. "It's not charming when it's the same act every time."

Jia's smile faltered. She listened as the others joined in, teasing Heeseung about his flirtatious ways. "Seriously, hyung, you're going to break too many hearts at this rate," Ni-ki chimed in.

Jake laughed, shaking his head. "Yeah, man. You've got to be careful."

Heeseung, unfazed by the teasing, simply shrugged. "It's all in good fun. You all know I don't mean anything by it."

Jia felt a pang in her chest. She tried to mask her disappointment, but the playful atmosphere suddenly felt stifling. She shifted in her seat, trying to focus on the movie playing on the screen, but her mind was elsewhere. Was that really all it was to Heeseung? Just a game?

Sunoo seemed to notice her discomfort and nudged her gently. "You okay, Jia?"

She forced a smile, nodding quickly. "Yeah, just a bit tired."

But as she sat there, she couldn't shake the feeling that she had misunderstood everything. All those moments she had shared with Heeseung—the coffee outing, the lingering looks, the way he always seemed to seek her out—maybe it was just his usual behavior. He was like that with everyone.

She excused herself and headed to the kitchen, needing a moment alone to collect her thoughts. The sound of the boys' laughter faded into the background as she gripped the edge of the counter, her emotions swirling inside her.

She had been naive, she realized. Of course, someone like Heeseung—who was charming, handsome, and at the center of attention—wouldn't single her out. It was part of his personality, part of his appeal as an idol. And she had fallen for it.

As she stood there, lost in thought, Sunghoon entered the kitchen, his expression concerned. "Hey, you okay?"

Jia blinked, forcing another smile. "Yeah, just needed some air."

Sunghoon didn't look convinced. "You know, it's okay to feel confused. Heeseung is...well, he's just like that."

Jia appreciated his honesty, even if it hurt a little to hear it. "I guess I just...misread things."

Sunghoon's eyes softened, and he leaned against the counter, his tone gentle. "It's easy to do. He's good at making people feel special, but that's just who he is. It doesn't mean he has bad intentions."

Jia nodded, trying to swallow the lump in her throat. "I know. I just need to adjust my expectations."

Sunghoon reached out, giving her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Don't be too hard on yourself. It happens to a lot of people. And, hey, we all think you're special. Don't let this get to you."

Jia felt a surge of gratitude for Sunghoon's kindness. "Thanks, Sunghoon. You're always so understanding."

He smiled, the warmth in his eyes making her feel a little better. "Just looking out for you, Jia."

They stayed there for a few more moments, talking about lighter topics until she felt her spirits lift again. It was comforting to know she had friends like Sunghoon who genuinely cared about her well-being. When they returned to the living room, she felt a bit more grounded, determined not to let her feelings for Heeseung get out of hand.

As the night drew on, she watched Heeseung interact with the others, his charm on full display. He joked with Ni-ki, ruffled Sunoo's hair playfully, and even leaned over to whisper something to Jake, causing him to laugh loudly. It was clear to her now that this was just who he was—a bright, easygoing person who lit up the room wherever he went.

But even as she told herself to pull back, Jia couldn't deny the way her heart still reacted whenever he glanced her way. It was like trying to convince herself that fire didn't burn even as the warmth lingered.

As she lay in bed that night, staring up at the ceiling, Jia let out a deep sigh. She had been swept up in the fantasy of it all, but now she knew better. Heeseung was like that to everyone.

Still, despite the clarity, a part of her hoped that, one day, maybe he would look at her differently—not just as Jake's sister or another person he could charm, but as someone special. But until then, she needed to protect herself from getting hurt.