BLOSSOMS IN THE SPOLIGHT | HEESEUNG

10: A Friendly Escape

The realization that Heeseung's charm was not unique to her weighed on Jia's mind over the next few days. She tried to throw herself into her work, immersing herself in floral arrangements and new designs. But whenever she thought about him, she felt a mix of embarrassment and frustration. She wished she could just move on, but it was harder than she expected.

One afternoon, as Jia was tending to some orchids in her workshop, she received a message from Sunghoon.

Hey, Jia. I know things have been a little tense. Want to get out of the city for a bit? Clear your head?

Jia stared at the message, feeling grateful for Sunghoon's timing. He had been a constant source of support, and she appreciated the way he seemed to know when she needed a distraction. She quickly replied.

That sounds perfect. Where are we going?

Within an hour, Sunghoon picked her up in his car. He didn't say where they were headed, keeping it a surprise. The drive took them out of Seoul and into the countryside, where the buildings thinned out and lush greenery filled the landscape. The fresh air and open space felt like a relief, a chance to breathe and forget everything that had been weighing her down.

They eventually arrived at a quiet lake surrounded by tall pine trees. The water was calm, glistening under the afternoon sun. It was a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Jia felt her mood lift almost immediately.

"Wow, this is amazing, Sunghoon," she said, stepping out of the car and taking in the view.

Sunghoon smiled, leaning against the car door. "I thought you might like it. It's one of my favorite places to relax."

They walked down to the edge of the lake, the peaceful sounds of nature surrounding them. Sunghoon had brought a blanket and a small picnic basket, which he spread out on the grass. Jia laughed as he pulled out a variety of snacks—fruit, sandwiches, and even some pastries.

"Wow, you really came prepared," she teased.

He grinned. "I thought you deserved a proper getaway."

They settled down on the blanket, and for the next few hours, they talked about everything and anything that wasn't related to Heeseung or the band. Sunghoon shared stories from his childhood, his favorite places to visit, and his dreams beyond being an idol. Jia found herself opening up too, telling him about her life in Australia, her passion for flowers, and how Seoul had started to feel like home.

As they laughed and exchanged stories, Jia felt a sense of ease she hadn't felt in a while. Sunghoon's presence was calm, steady, and reassuring—different from the whirlwind of emotions she felt around Heeseung. He made her feel safe.

At one point, they decided to walk along the edge of the lake, the cool breeze ruffling their hair. Jia skipped a few stones across the water's surface while Sunghoon watched, a smile playing on his lips.

"You know, Jia, I'm glad you're here," he said, his tone sincere. "It's nice having someone around who isn't just part of the industry. You're like a breath of fresh air for all of us."

Jia felt her cheeks warm, but she smiled back. "Thank you, Sunghoon. You've all made me feel so welcome. I'm really grateful."

He nodded, his expression soft. "I mean it. You bring a different energy, and I think we all needed that."

As they walked back to their picnic spot, Jia felt a sense of clarity. Maybe she had been too focused on her feelings for Heeseung, caught up in the excitement of his attention. But now, she was beginning to appreciate the genuine connections she was forming with the other members—especially Sunghoon. His steady support and the way he always seemed to be there when she needed someone were things she hadn't fully noticed before.

After finishing the rest of their snacks, Sunghoon suggested they rent a small rowboat and paddle out into the lake. Jia hesitated at first, but the idea seemed too fun to pass up. Before long, they were drifting on the still water, the boat rocking gently as they laughed and teased each other about who was better at rowing.

Jia felt the tension she had been carrying finally begin to dissolve. This was exactly what she needed—a day away from the chaos, from the confusion. She realized that being in the presence of someone who valued her for who she was, without any pretense or flirtation, was refreshing.

As they floated in the middle of the lake, Sunghoon looked over at her, his eyes warm. "I know things have been complicated lately. But just know, Jia, you've got people here who care about you. We're your friends."

Jia's heart felt lighter at his words. "Thanks, Sunghoon. You're a really good friend."

He smiled, but there was something deeper in his eyes—something she couldn't quite read. "Anytime."

When they returned to shore, the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the lake. As they packed up their things, Jia felt a sense of calm she hadn't experienced in days. The drive back to Seoul was quiet but comfortable, the kind of silence that felt like a bond rather than a barrier.

Back in the city, as Sunghoon pulled up in front of the dorm, Jia turned to him, grateful for the day they had shared. "Thank you, Sunghoon. Today was exactly what I needed."

He nodded, his smile soft. "I'm glad. Anytime you want to get away, just let me know."

As she stepped out of the car, she felt something shift in her perspective. Maybe she had been so caught up in her feelings for Heeseung that she hadn't taken the time to appreciate the friendships she was building with everyone else—especially Sunghoon, whose quiet presence had become a constant source of comfort.

Jia decided that, for now, she would focus on cherishing these moments. She needed to let things unfold naturally and stop trying to force her emotions into neat little boxes. Maybe, just maybe, she had been looking in the wrong direction all along.