BAE JIHO'S POV
"Can you stop pacing back and forth? You're going to make me dizzy," Mia said, watching me with a mix of concern and irritation. I sighed and sank into the seat next to her, frustration bubbling up inside me. "Why isn't he picking up?" I muttered, trying to get a hold of Manager Kim.
"He's probably busy dealing with that sudden article claiming you and Han Jinwoo are in a relationship," she replied, raising an eyebrow. I let out another deep sigh. "I know, but shouldn't he at least talk to me? I need to know what kind of solution they're coming up with."
"Well, companies usually prefer to handle these situations on their own," she said, her voice steady. "I understand you're feeling anxious, but this will be settled soon. That news outlet is notorious for stirring up drama with actors and actresses for clout. I just hope they take legal action this time." I leaned back, trying to absorb her words.
"He must be handling this pretty well," I said, thinking of Han Jinwoo.
"Who? Han Jinwoo?" Mia asked, and I nodded.
"Well, it's not his first rodeo. He's used to articles being published about him, both good and bad," she replied.
"Why don't you talk to him?" she suggested, her tone shifting to something more encouraging. "You two are in the same boat. Maybe talking to him will help ease your anxiety." I took a moment to consider it. "Do you think that's okay?" I asked, uncertainty creeping in.
"Yes," she replied firmly, and I felt a flicker of hope as I thought about reaching out to him.
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HAN JINWOO'S POV
"How are we going to handle this?" I asked Manager Hong, scanning the article that had sparked all this chaos. "It's pretty straightforward," he replied, his tone calm. "We'll release a statement denying the dating rumors. If the public keeps pushing, we'll have the team you dined with that night give their statements too. Honestly, it's nothing to worry about. You and Bae Jiho are strictly in a working relationship—nothing more. Plus, the source is unreliable, known for targeting various actors and actresses."
I nodded, attempting to absorb his reassurance, but then I caught him staring at me with an intensity that made my heart race. "What?" I asked, feeling a mix of curiosity and unease. "You and Bae Jiho... are strictly in a working relationship, right?" he pressed, catching me off guard. I feigned ignorance, my mind racing. "What are you talking about?" I shot back, but his gaze didn't waver.
"I need to know if there's something more between you two," he continued, and I felt my pulse quicken. "Honestly, even I, like the public, would have thought something was going on just by looking at those photos. Plus, the way you're asking about how this affects her—it's different. You've never shown this level of concern for any of your co-stars or even co-workers. So, are you and Bae Jiho really just work partners?" His words hung in the air, and I could feel the weight of the question pressing down on me..."Yes, we have a strictly work relationship. There's nothing else going on between us," I replied, trying to sound more confident than I felt. "Look, this is Bae Jiho's first time dealing with something like this. She's at the peak of her career, and I want it to stay that way. I don't want this to negatively impact her or her career. I'm just looking out for a work partner," I added, my voice steady.
I could feel the weight of my words as I continued, "Those pictures can easily be explained. I was just helping her out—she was drunk, and I drove her home. Just as work partners do." I realized how many times I had repeated the phrase "work partners," almost as if I was trying to convince myself of the truth behind it.
"Okay, you didn't have to explain yourself so much," Manager Hong said, raising an eyebrow at me. I shot him a glare, feeling a mix of frustration and determination. "This issue will be settled soon. For now, just lay low. By that, I mean don't interact with Bae Jiho at all," he instructed, and I raised an eyebrow in surprise.
"To avoid adding fuel to the fire," he clarified. I understood the reasoning, but it didn't make it any easier. "I know you both live in the same residence, which complicates things, but you should be aware that every news outlet and paparazzi has their eyes on you two. The residence has already been exposed as Bae Jiho's home, and seeing you go there will only spark more rumors. So for now, stay away from the residence until this situation calms down," he emphasized. I nodded in agreement, feeling the weight of the situation. "I understand," I replied, steeling myself for the days ahead...As I leaned back in my chair, the weight of the situation pressed heavily on my shoulders. Manager Hong's voice cut through my thoughts, "Okay then... I've booked you a room at the hotel. Stay there for the meantime." I let out a long sigh, feeling both relieved and anxious about the sudden change in my routine.
Just then, my phone buzzed, and I glanced at the screen. It was a call from Bae Jiho. A smile crept onto my face, surprising me with its warmth. "I'll get this real quick," I told Manager Hong, my heart racing a little as I stepped out of his office.
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BAE JIHO'S POV
The relentless ring of the phone echoed my inner turmoil, each unanswered buzz a fresh wave of doubt. Should I even be doing this? The moment I was about to hang up, a voice, familiar yet distant, cut through the silence. "Hello?" His voice, a soothing balm, sent my heart into a chaotic rhythm. "Hey," I managed, my pacing intensifying. "It's Bae Jiho," I blurted, hearing a chuckle on the other end. "I know." he replied, his tone measured. "Look, you've seen the news, right? It's everywhere. What I'm trying to say is..." My words dissolved into a jumble of nerves, until he interrupted, "Are you okay?" His voice was laced with concern, a lifeline in the storm. "Huh?" I stammered, caught off guard. "Are you alright with everything that's happening?" he repeated, his words a gentle push. I sighed, the weight of the world pressing down. "I wish I could say yes, but... I'm not. That's why I called. I guess I needed some comfort, some reassurance, since we're both in the same boat." I confessed, a mix of embarrassment and hope bubbling inside. "Plus, my company... my manager isn't telling me anything, and it's driving me crazy." I added, my voice laced with frustration. He listened in silence, a silent promise of support. "You have nothing to worry about," he finally said, his voice now firm. "This is a minor issue that will be resolved once our companies release statements." He added, the steel in his tone reassuring. "And, of course, we're suing that trashy news outlet that spread those lies." The finality in his words was a comfort, a promise of resolution..."Just relax," he continued, his voice a steady anchor, "Stay off your phone, especially the comments. Use this time to rest, distract yourself with anything... and everything will be fine." I listened, absorbing his words, the advice a soothing balm. "I'll try," I replied, a wave of relief washing over me, but a nagging unease still lingered. "Don't just try... do it," he said firmly, his voice a command. "You seem like such a daring person. I'm surprised this is making you waver." he added, a hint of amusement in his tone. "I didn't say it was making me waver," I retorted defensively. "Your voice is shaky, even now," he countered, and I knew he was right. "Well, it's just that..." I began, but the words eluded me. "Be the girl who once hit me over the head," he said, a teasing glint in his voice, "Don't let this small incident push you to the edge. You're at the start of your career, and you'll face much more of this. They're often unavoidable. The best way to navigate it all is to stay focused, remain calm and strong, even when you feel like you're trembling inside. That's how you handle these situations. And, of course, talking to someone you find comfort in isn't such a bad idea." Hearing him, it was comforting advice, a bit of teasing, all rolled into one. And, dare I say, my heart fluttered. Who was I kidding? My heart was threatening to leap from my chest the entire time we spoke.
"Ugh, Jiho, what is *wrong* with you?" I muttered into my pillow, the words muffled but filled with frustration. The weight of my own ridiculousness pressed down on me as I stared at the ceiling, each thought a tangled mess. "Seriously, get it together," I groaned, my voice echoing the absurdity of the situation. It was like my brain had decided to stage a full-blown circus of emotions, and I was the unwilling ringmaster.
HAN JINWOO'S POV
"You know, I could have driven myself to the hotel," I said to Manager Hong, the words laced with a hint of annoyance. "I know," he replied, his voice calm, "I just want to be sure you actually make it there." I sighed, the weight of the situation settling on my shoulders. "Just do as you're told if you want to protect her," he added, his tone firm. I turned, my gaze locking with his. "The person you were on the phone with... it was Bae Jiho, wasn't it?" he asked, his words a direct hit. I averted my eyes, caught in the moment. "I don't know what's really going on between you two," he continued, his voice softer now, "but I hope you'll be more careful to avoid any further incidents." My gaze drifted to the window, the city lights blurring in my vision. He had a point, I knew he did.
The hotel room offered a sterile comfort, but sleep remained a distant dream. The warm shower did little to wash away the turmoil. It wasn't the dating rumors that troubled me; it was Bae Jiho, the way she made me feel, the overwhelming urge to be there for her, not just over the phone, but physically. I wanted to offer comfort, to be present. I tossed and turned, the sheets a tangled mess as I fought the inevitable. Surrendering to wakefulness, I sat up, the weight of my thoughts heavy. I reached for my car keys, the metal cool against my skin. Perhaps a drive would offer some clarity. I started the engine, the hum filling the silence, and drove off, with no clear destination, or perhaps a very specific one.
I found myself parked in front of Bae Jiho's residence, the engine idling, a silent question mark in the night. "What am I doing here?" I whispered to myself, the words barely audible. After a moment, I picked up my phone, the screen casting a soft glow on my face. "Isn't it late?" I murmured, the question aimed at the phone, and at myself. The thought of calling her was a battle within me. "This isn't right. I shouldn't be here," I told myself, the words lacking true conviction. "But sleep eludes me... could she be awake?" I questioned again, taking a deep breath, closing my eyes, and dialing her number. The phone rang, each tone a note of the uncertainty that consumed me.
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BAE JIHO'S POV
"I took Han Jinwoo's advice and tried to rest, but sleep eluded me. I went downstairs, drawn by the noise of the TV. 'Hey!' I greeted Mia, settling beside her. 'Hey,' she replied. 'What are you watching?' I asked, trying to follow the documentary. 'A documentary,' she said. 'Perfect for helping me sleep,' I quipped, earning a glare. 'It's also why *I'm* watching it,' she countered, handing me a tub of ice cream. 'A healthy nerd indulging in ice cream at this hour?' I teased. 'I don't know, I've got a lot on my mind,' she admitted. 'Everything okay?' I asked. 'It's fine, nothing I can't handle,' she replied. 'I'm sorry I've been so wrapped up in my own stuff, I haven't checked in with you,' I said. 'It's not a big deal, Edward's coming back,' she said. 'Oh, Mia, that's great!' I exclaimed. 'Is it?' she replied, her tone uncertain. 'What's wrong?' I asked. 'Edward and I have been long distance for so long. I'm not sure if things will be the same when he gets back. What if a lot has changed?' she confessed, and I nodded, understanding...."Look, things might have shifted, but haven't you dreamt of this for ages? It's actually happening! Let's dive in and worry about the 'what ifs' with Edward later," I said, as she let out a soft laugh. "What's so funny?" I asked. "When did you become a comfort guru?" she wondered. "I don't know, maybe after a masterclass with someone who actually knows what they're doing," I replied, picturing Han Jinwoo. "And that someone is Han Jinwoo?" she pressed, and I felt my cheeks heat up. "Nope," I lied, a smile threatening to break through. "Uh huh, so it is," she said. "I swear, it's not," I insisted. "And then you smiled and blushed...come on, it's Han Jinwoo," she said, clearly amused. "No way! What makes you think Han Jinwoo has that effect on me?" I challenged. "Doesn't he?" Mia asked, and I rolled my eyes, covering my face. Just then, my phone lit up. The caller ID? Someone I absolutely wasn't expecting: Han Jinwoo. "Seriously?!" I exclaimed, jumping up. "What's wrong?" Mia asked, concern etched on her face. My heart was pounding. "Nothing, just...gotta take this," I replied, practically sprinting to my room. "Who's calling you at this hour?" Mia asked. "No one important," I replied, already halfway there. "Why is he calling me?" I wondered, a mix of excitement and nerves bubbling up...
My heart did a little dance when I heard his voice. "Hey," I managed, my voice a touch breathy. Silence hung for a moment before he replied, "Hey." His voice was like a warm blanket on a cold night. "Sorry to bother you," he said, his voice soft. "No, not at all!" I blurted out, maybe a little too eager. "I wasn't sleeping," I quickly added, trying to sound cool. "Oh, good," he chuckled, and my stomach did a flip. "The thing is... I was wondering," he continued, and the anticipation was killing me. "Wondering what?" I asked, biting my lip. "If you'd be up for a late-night drive?" he finally asked. My jaw dropped. "A late-night drive?" I repeated, just to make sure I heard him right. A massive smile spread across my face, but I fought to hide it. "Yeah, if you're free," he replied, his voice laced with a hint of hope. "Well, didn't you say we can't be seen together? Won't that be a problem on our drive?" I asked, my mind racing. "Our drive?" I thought, savoring the words. "With a mask, a few disguises, and the car's tinted windows, I doubt anyone will recognize us, or get a picture. Even if they do, they won't know it's us," he explained, and I could practically hear the smirk in his voice. He'd thought of everything. "True," I said, trying to keep my voice steady, even though I was bursting with excitement. "I'm in the basement parking lot. Get ready and meet me there," he said, and then the line went dead. My hands were shaking as I got ready...
"Should I really wear this?" I muttered, eyeing my baggy tee and cargo pants. "It's not like it's a date or anything," I sighed, flipping my hair up, then down, then up again. "Whatever," I thought, already picturing myself changing. "It's just a late-night drive, not a red carpet."
As I headed out, I called to Mia, "I'm going for a walk. Don't wait up."
"A walk? Now?" she asked, rising from the couch.
"Yes," I replied, hoping she wouldn't pry.
"Dressed like that?" she pointed out, her eyes scanning my outfit.
"Yes! In case you've forgotten, I'm a famous actress. Paparazzi lurk around every corner, so I always have to be camera-ready," I fibbed, trying to sound convincing.
"Oh, can I come with you?" she asked.
I clenched my jaw. "No, you look tired. Get some rest. I'll see you in the morning." I gave her a quick hug and bolted out the door. "Phew, that was close," I thought, carefully making my way to the basement parking lot. I had to be cautious. Bucket hat, mask, shades – the whole nine yards. Being a celebrity was exhausting.
Finally, I reached the parking area. A familiar honk cut through the night. It was Han Jinwoo's car. I hurried over and slid into the passenger seat.
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"Hey," I managed, still catching my breath.
"Hey," he replied, his voice smooth.
"Are you sure you can see with those on?" he asked, gesturing towards my shades.
"Huh?" I replied, still recovering from my sprint to the car.
"The shades," he clarified, a hint of amusement in his voice. To my surprise, he reached over and gently took them off. Our eyes met for a split second, and a smile played on his lips. A jolt of electricity shot through me, drying my throat. "Thank... thank you," I stammered, chuckling softly. "I completely forgot I was still wearing them as a disguise."
"You certainly went all out with the disguises," he said, his gaze lingering on my face. "Don't you feel hot?" He reached towards my jacket, and my mind raced. Was he going to help me take it off too? "What am I thinking?" I chided myself internally, quickly fumbling with the zipper.
Once I was free from the down jacket, the hat, and the mask, I leaned back and sighed deeply. He then effortlessly slid down the car window for me. I sat up, letting the cool breeze caress my face. "Ahhh, this feels amazing," I said, a genuine smile spreading across my face. "But where are we going?" I asked, curiosity finally getting the better of me.
He smirked. "What's the fun in a late-night drive if you know where you're going?"
"You're right," I replied, laughing softly, already anticipating the adventure...." Let's grab a bite first...unless you're not feeling it?" he began, but I cut him off. "Yes, actually. Haven't eaten a proper meal all day," I admitted. "Alright, let me check if any restaurants are open at this hour," he offered. "Well, it's not a restaurant, but it's the perfect spot for us," I replied with a grin, watching him raise an eyebrow. "You'll see," I added, entering the location as he started the car.
The air filled with anticipation as we arrived at the Qingzhen food street, a lively hub of stalls and small shops offering a diverse array of foods. "Is this it?" he asked, his expression unreadable. "Yep! Perfect for a late-night snack. Plus, we blend in, and no one will recognize us, along with all the delicious food," I said, hoping to sway him. "Okay, let's go," he agreed, and we stepped out of the car. "Let's go," I echoed, grabbing his hand and leading him inside.
The aroma of food, the vibrant chatter, and more enveloped us. "What are you in the mood for?" I asked as he surveyed the scene. "I know, so many choices can be overwhelming...that's why I'm here to help," I said as he chuckled softly. "Yes, ma'am," he replied. I guided him to a stall, where we ordered beef skewers, fried Irish potatoes, sausages, and everything else that caught my eye..."Make one spicy, and the other..." I paused, glancing at Han Jinwoo. "Not spicy. I can't handle spices that well," he replied. "Not spicy," I told the stall attendee, who then directed us to a seating area to wait for our order. Han Jinwoo seemed uneasy, constantly looking around. "Don't worry, no one can spot you out here," I said, trying to reassure him. "I know, it's just..." he began. "You're right, let's just enjoy the night," he said with a smile that warmed my heart. "Okay!" I replied.
Soon, our meals arrived. "Enjoy," I said as he picked up a skewer to eat. "Holy...!" he exclaimed after the first bite. "What's wrong?" I asked, as he fanned his mouth with his hand. "I think our orders got mixed up," he said. I handed him a bottle of water. "Drink this," I urged. "I'll go get you some milk too," I added, standing up, but he grabbed my hand. "It's okay, this will do," he said. "Are you sure?" I questioned as he nodded reassuringly. I sat back down, still worried. "I'm really sorry," I said, and he chuckled softly. "It's okay," he replied. "Let's eat," he added. I switched our orders, and we started to dig in.
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After our meal, we hit the road again, the silence between us a stark contrast to the earlier laughter. "You can play some music if you want," he said, breaking the quiet. I sat up, turned on the radio, and leaned back, stealing glances at him. As if on cue, a song started playing. Not just any song, but *my* song, the kind that demands to be sung out loud. "Taking down her hair like, oh my God..." I began softly, lost in the lyrics, and then I heard him chuckle. "You can sing to it if you want," he said, as if he'd been watching me the whole time. "Are you sure?" I asked, surprised. "Yes, you can do whatever you want," he replied. I turned up the volume and belted out the words, "Ohhhh, you got me thinking she's so coollll, kicking back on your couch making eyes from across the room...ohhhh that's so true!" He leaned back, a smile playing on his lips, and I realized I was giving him a private concert. The road stretched ahead, but in that moment, it was just the music, him, and me.
"Made it out alive, but I think I lost it," I sang, the words echoing in the space between us. "Said that I was fine, said it from a coffin, remember how I died when you started walking, that's my life, that's my life..." I continued, and then I turned to him. He was singing along. A wave of surprise washed over me, quickly followed by a rush of something else – excitement? We sang together, our voices blending, and we danced, lost in the music and each other's smiles. It was a moment of pure magic. As the song faded, I couldn't help but stare at him, a laugh bubbling up inside me. He laughed too. "You know this song?" I asked, still a little breathless. "Anyone with TikTok knows this song," he replied, grinning. The night unfolded, surprising me at every turn. We sang more songs, our voices rising and falling in the night air. It was incredible to see this playful side of him. He seemed so relaxed, and I reveled in every shared moment. We talked, laughed, and sang. It was everything I could have wanted.
The next morning, waves crashed, pulling me from sleep. The night with Han Jinwoo was a blur of joy, yet I couldn't remember when I'd drifted off. The driver's seat was empty, so I stepped out, finding him on the beach, the wind weaving through his hair. A smile tugged at my lips as I approached. "Are we allowed to be here?" I asked. He turned, startled. "It's not a commercial beach, so it's okay." "Good morning," he said softly. "Good morning," I replied, "Sorry I crashed on our late-night adventure." He chuckled, "I'd be tired too, singing along to every song on the radio." My cheeks warmed. "I'd consider your partnership if I was ever invited to a 'Guess the Song' variety show," he grinned. I smiled, and he gestured, "Come on, sit. It's almost time." I settled beside him, the air charged as his arm brushed mine. "Almost time for what?" I asked, my heart a frantic drum. "The sunrise," he replied.
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HAN JINWOO'S POV
The rest of the drive was a hazy dream after Jiho drifted off. Her absence was a physical thing – I missed her loud singing, the way her giggles echoed in the car, the light in her eyes. Everything. Even though she was right there, sleeping beside me, the urge to sneak glances at her almost wrecked me.
As dawn painted the sky, I steered us towards Qingzhen's hidden gem, a quiet beach at the city's edge. While she slept, I covered her with my shirt and her jacket, sealing the windows against the morning chill. Sleep eluded me, so I walked out to the shore, the wind a welcome caress against my skin. The rhythm of the waves, a constant, familiar heartbeat, filled the silence.
"There it is," Jiho breathed, her finger tracing the sunrise that was painting the sky. It was a masterpiece, but it was her face, lit by that same glow, that truly stole my breath. Her warm smile, a sunrise all its own. "It's really beautiful," she murmured, turning to find me lost in her. Her eyes widened, a smile playing on her lips, and I couldn't help but smile back. "How do you know about this place?" she asked, pulling me back to the moment.
"I stumbled upon it a few years ago," I explained, the memory sharp. "Just like yesterday, I was drowning in work stress, I jumped in my car, no destination in mind. And then, just when I thought I was far enough, I found this place, almost forgotten. I got out, sat here, a lonely man and a lonely beach. You could say we found solace in each other."
"Well, thank you for sharing your secret with me," she said, her smile genuine. "I'm glad I could," I replied, and we turned back to the sunrise, letting its beauty wash over us.
As we rose to leave, Jiho sighed, "I wish we could stay here a little longer." "I know," I said, "But duty calls. Our companies are about to drop the statements, and we need to be ready, in case we need to say something or do interviews." She nodded, her expression a mix of hope and weariness. "I just hope it all gets washed away," she whispered. "It will," I reassured her, and together, we prepared to leave...
As we walked to the car, Jiho stumbled, stirred, and for a terrifying second, she swayed, a small sound escaping her.
Without thinking, I moved. My arm snaked out, catching her around the waist, my other hand instinctively anchoring her wrist. The world compressed, the beach shrinking to the space between us. Her eyes locked on mine, wide and unguarded, and the ocean's roar seemed to vanish.
My grip tightened, a silent message. Her skin was warm beneath my fingers, and the curve of her waist fit perfectly in my hand. A jolt, a spark, shot through me, stealing my breath. Her gaze searched mine, and I saw my own bewilderment reflected there. The silence grew, a delicate thread between us, the only sound the frantic rhythm of my heart... I wanted to freeze time, to hold her there, suspended between the sea and the setting sun.
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