Fake Love : K-Pop romance [ English ]

Chapter 3.4

By dessert, I struggled to finish my crepe. It was late. The restaurant had nearly emptied out, leaving only a few discreet patrons.

"I'll probably regret this tomorrow morning during rehearsals," Eliel joked. "I've eaten and... drunk way too much."

Looking tired, he ran a hand through his black hair and sighed. Our eyes met again. Smoothly, he changed the subject.

"I think it's time."

His voice was soft, uncertain. I could read a certain weariness in his eyes.

"It... it's time for what?" I managed to ask, though I felt unsettled.

He reached his hand across the table toward me. I lowered my gaze and stared at his open hand. Once again, I found it hard to breathe. Anxiety tightened the muscles in my neck.

"A simple dinner isn't going to be enough," he declared, as if trying to convince himself.

I attempted to look pleased as I slid my trembling hand into his. With an awkward mixture of shyness, he wrapped his hand around mine slowly, causing my heart to race immediately. Keeping my eyes down, I refused to look at him. My cheeks were burning, my head felt heavier and heavier, and I couldn't bring myself to say a single word. It was the first time I'd ever shared physical contact with a man. And it had to be with him.

"I'm sorry," he murmured. "I want this moment to be as bearable as possible for you. The paparazzi need these photos."

Swallowing hard, I forced a smile and looked up at him.

"It's okay," I lied.

Eliel seemed to have trouble believing me. He tilted his head and tried to lighten the mood.

"Danbi's going to kill me when she sees these pictures tomorrow. She's naturally very jealous."

A question popped into my mind:

"Aren't you afraid your agency might ruin things between you two?"

He sighed and looked away. His expression changed again. Under the table, I felt his leg jittering. His impeccable appearance from the beginning of the dinner was starting to crack. Beneath the dazzling exterior was a man carrying suffocating secrets he'd never reveal.

"I'll do whatever it takes to keep Danbi away from the madness and the relentless media. We'll get through this. As long as we're together, everything will be fine. She's the center of my happiness."

His words touched me; they were so sincere.

"You're right. I think in life, we have to fight for what we truly want. Things will eventually work out."

My hand still in his, he nodded in agreement with my words.

******

Outside the restaurant, I was surprised to see two black vans, one of which was waiting for me. I turned to Eliel, who guessed my thoughts.

"It's late, and we've been drinking. One of our drivers will take you home."

I hesitated for a moment, looking toward the vehicle. Not knowing what was planned for me tomorrow bothered me.

"We'll have to see each other often in the coming days. Will you or the agency contact me?"

"The agency! We're not allowed to contact each other directly."

Part of me was relieved by this answer. Imagining a message or a call from him would've been... strange. Satisfied, I wished him a good night before turning toward the van. Finally, I'd be free. I didn't even take a step before Eliel pulled me back to face him. Off balance, I found myself in his arms, his scent dizzying me. The next second, his lips gently touched my forehead. I held my breath. Suspended in time, I felt like I was floating. The paparazzi had their scoop for tomorrow, and I had fuel for my dreams tonight.

"Good night," he whispered.

Shocked and embarrassed, I kept my head down. I turned quickly, cheeks blazing, and hurried to the van, my heart pounding wildly.