our crossed paths | jww.

bonus + dispatch #1

Days had passed since the news of their relationship had stirred fans, yet Jiwoo and Wonwoo managed to shield their life from the spotlight. Jiwoo had been quietly recovering from the recent incident, while Wonwoo kept his schedule filled with side projects—hosting a reality program, filming endorsements, and brand photoshoots. They adjusted, balancing their public and private lives, intent on keeping a sense of peace and normalcy.

One evening, Wonwoo prepared for a gym session in their apartment's private facility. It was usually empty, accessible only to residents, and his quiet spot to destress.

Slipping into his workout gear, he poked his head into Ahrin's bedroom, finding both Jiwoo and Ahrin curled up, fast asleep. He smiled at the cozy sight, unable to resist snapping a quick photo.

Shutting the door, he headed to the gym, a strange feeling stirring in the back of his mind as he rode the elevator down. He shook it off, brushing it aside as nerves from his missed workouts.

The gym was quiet, with a comforting hum from the machines. After setting his stuff on a nearby bench, he hopped onto the treadmill, starting with a steady pace. Music filled his headphones as he increased the speed, settling into his workout rhythm.

Soon, someone hopped onto the treadmill beside him, and he glanced sideways, immediately noting their gaze fixed on him. Irritated, Wonwoo tried to ignore it, focusing on his pace. But when he noticed the person lift their phone, seemingly pointing it his way, he finally snapped, pulling off one earbud.

"Sorry, but could you please stop filming? This is private property—" he began, turning toward the intruder.

"Oh really?" a familiar, playful voice teased. "I didn't know that."

Wonwoo's eyes widened as he took in Jiwoo standing beside him in a bright pink sports bra and matching gym shorts, her hair tied up in a loose ponytail. She beamed, holding up her phone with a mock-serious expression.

"Jiwoo? What... what are you doing here?" he stammered, slowing his treadmill to a walk.

"Surprise," she grinned, reaching over to ruffle his hair. "And, for the record, the last time I checked, this isn't private property. This is mine to keep," She playfully poked his shoulder, reminding him he was hers to tease.

Wonwoo chuckled, returning her grin. "So, did you have fun recording me, dear stranger?"

"Oh, only the best few seconds for my gallery," she teased back, laughing as she pretended to examine the video.

He smirked. "Why bother ogling a screen when you can see me in person every day?"

Jiwoo rolled her eyes, fighting back a smirk. "Alright, you win, nothing beats the original."

"Weren't you asleep just now? And what about Ahrin?" He tilted his head, studying her.

"Oh, I was only half-asleep when you came in. Shortly after you left, mom dropped by and took Ahrin out for a bit. Said she had something special for her at home—probably more clothes or toys." Jiwoo laughed, jogging lightly as she spoke, her voice bright with affection for Ahrin and her mom's doting habits.

"So, we're sharing moms now?" Wonwoo quipped, raising a brow, his voice low and teasing. Jiwoo's cheeks reddened as she processed his words.

"I-I guess you could put it that way," she stammered, pressing a higher speed on her treadmill to hide her embarrassment.

Wonwoo laughed softly, glancing down before leaning in. He watched as Jiwoo put in her earbuds, likely planning to tune him out as she focused on her workout. But he had other ideas.