26: Facing the Backlash

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by hooniez_

by hooniez_

Returning to Seoul from their mountain getaway, Juyeon and Taehyung were greeted by a storm they hadn't anticipated. The photos of them together had spread like wildfire, and social media was ablaze with reactions from ARMYs. Juyeon's phone buzzed incessantly with notifications.

As they settled back into Taehyung's apartment, the gravity of the situation became clear. Juyeon scrolled through her phone, her heart sinking with each hateful comment.

"Who does she think she is? She's not good enough for him."

"She's just using him for fame."

"This is a betrayal to ARMYs!"

Taehyung, seeing the distress on Juyeon's face, took her phone gently from her hands. "Stop reading those. It's not worth it."

Juyeon nodded, tears brimming in her eyes. "But there are a few supportive comments too," she said softly. "Some fans are happy for us."

Taehyung wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. "We'll get through this, Juyeon. I promise."

The next day, they had a scheduled meeting with Hybe's HR team to discuss the situation. The atmosphere in the room was tense as Taehyung and Juyeon took their seats.

Ms. Lee, the head of HR, began the meeting. "Taehyung, Juyeon, thank you for coming. We need to address the current situation and find a way to manage the backlash."

Taehyung nodded, his expression serious. "I'm not giving on our relationship. We need to find a way to make this work."

Mr. Kim, another HR representative, spoke up. "The primary concern is the public image. We need to release a statement that can help calm the situation. Juyeon, are you prepared for the scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye?"

Juyeon took a deep breath, her resolve strengthening. "Yes, I am. I love Taehyung, and I'm willing to do whatever it takes to support him and our relationship."

Taehyung squeezed her hand under the table, grateful for her unwavering support.

Ms. Lee nodded approvingly. "We can draft a statement expressing your feelings and addressing the concerns of the fans. It's important to be honest and transparent."

Mr. Kim added, "We should also consider a live broadcast where you both can speak directly to the fans. It might might help to humanize your relationship and show them how genuine it is."

Taehyung looked at Juyeon, seeking her approval. She nodded, agreeing with the plan.

"Okay," Taehyung said. "Let's do it. We'll be honest and open with the fans."

Ms. Lee smiled, a hint of relief in her expression. "We'll draft the statement and set up the live broadcast. In the meantine, try to avoid looking at social media. It's best to stay focused on each other."

After the meeting, Taehyung and Juyeon walked out of the building hand in hand. The challenges ahead were daunting, but they knew they could face them together.

Back at the apartment, they settled on the couch, Taehyung pulling Juyeon into his lap. "We'll get through this," he whispered, kissing her temple.

Juyeon nodded, leaning into his embrace. "As long as we have each other."

As the sun set over Seoul, casting a warm glow over the city, they knew that their love was strong enough to withstand any storm. Together, they would face the world, one step at a time.