NARUTO x HINATA FANFIC (After Pain Episode, Alternate Story)
After Hinataâs brave stand against Pain, her heartfelt confession started to lingers Narutoâs mind. For the first time, he began seeing her not just as a comrade, but as someone who has carried silent feelings for him through every battle, every hardship
As the village rebuilds, Naruto wrestles with emotions he never knew he had, while Hinata struggles with vulnerability after baring her heart so openly.
Between the pain, quiet nights, and fleeting moments of closeness, Naruto must confront what her words truly mean to himâ and what kind of bond they can build before destiny calls gives them their happy ending.
This is a story of unspoken feelings finally finding a voice, of courage beyond the battlefield, and of love blossoming.
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Y'alllll, another random one I know but I was obsessed with Narutoo growing up, re-watch all 700+ episode and here I am now. Again, posting this for myself :P
This is an Alternate story after Hinata fought Pain. We all know the anime didn't really progress their story (excluding the movie)
So here we go dattebayo lol
NARUTO x HINATA FANFIC (After Pain Episode, Alternate Story)
Chapter 1.5 â Lifeless, Silence.
Naruto sat frozen beside her bed. His knuckles were white where they clutched her hand. His chest felt tight, every breath heavy as though the air itself was pressing against his lungs.
The flatline.
The silence in the tent was deafening.
He looked around. Medic-nin exchanged hurried words behind their masks. Sakura stood tense, her hands trembling. Kakashiâs single visible eye narrowed, but his posture was quiet, controlled. Kiba and Shino hovered near the doorway, their expressions unreadable.
But Naruto saw none of them. His world had narrowed entirely to Hinata lying before himâ pale, still, fragile.
âNoâŠâ His voice broke, a low sound that barely escaped his lips. âNo, no, noâŠâ
He leaned forward until his forehead rested against hers, his voice breaking again. âHinata⊠donât leave me. Please. Iâm here. Iâm here for you.â
His breathing was ragged, his shoulders trembling. His chakra overflowing but weak as he hugged her body trying to give her life. âYou can't leave me, We haven't even started yet. You should have told me sooner. I should have answered you. Wake up... Please..â
The monitorâs silence was crushing.
He pressed his lips to her hand again, closing his eyes. âI love you, Hinata Hyuga. And I⊠Iâm not letting you go.â
Naruto remembered again.
He remembered when he was younger, after a training match had gone badly. Hinata had been there quietly with water, her hands gentle as she helped him sit. No one else had cared. No one else had offered kindness without expectation.
âYouâre stubborn,â she had said softly. âBut thatâs why I⊠believe in you.â
He had laughed nervously, brushing the memory away then. He had been too focused on becoming Hokage to think about what she meant.
Now he understood.
She had been there all along. Waiting. Watching. Loving him quietly. And he had ignored it.
âIâm sorry, HinataâŠâ he whispered brokenly. âI should have said it before. I should have told you I like you.â
His chest ached with the weight of his own regret. âBut Iâm telling you now. I love you.â
The silence was deafening.
Naruto didnât notice the subtle change at first. He was too caught in his own words, his grief, his confession.
But then, almost imperceptibly, her fingers twitched.
Narutoâs head shot up. His heart slammed against his ribs like a drum. âHinata?â
Nothing.
He blinked rapidly, leaning closer. âHinata⊠itâs me. Naruto.â
The twitch happened again, this time more pronounced. Her fingers curled slightly, her lips parted as if she were trying to speak.
Naruto grabbed her hand, pressing it to his cheek. âHinata⊠wake up. PleaseâŠâ
A shallow breath slipped past her lips.
His eyes widened, tears brimming. âHinata?â His voice cracked. âI⊠Iâm here. Iâm right here.â
It started as a flicker, her eyelids trembling, eyelashes fluttering. Slowly, she stirred, as though surfacing from a deep dream.
Naruto leaned forward, his chest rising with sharp breaths. âHinata⊠open your eyes.â
Her gaze was unfocused, glassy. For a heartbeat, she didnât respond.
Then her lavender eyes blinked open, slowly, and landed on him.
âN-NarutoâŠâ Her voice was faint, fragile.
Narutoâs chest broke open with relief. âHinataâŠâ His voice was barely a whisper, choked with emotion. âYouâre awake.â
Tears slipped down his cheeks. He grasped her hand tighter, holding it like a lifeline. âDonât scare me like that again. I canât⊠I canât lose you.â
Her lips curved into a weak smile. âIâm sorryâŠâ she whispered. âI also didnât⊠want to leave you.â
Naruto shook his head, his tears falling freely. âDonât apologize. Youâre here now. Thatâs all that matters.â
The world seemed to stop. Outside the tent, the first rays of morning crept over the horizon, painting the broken village in soft gold. Inside, it was only him and her.
Naruto kept his hand wrapped around hers, leaning close so his forehead rested lightly against hers. âHinata⊠I need to say it again.â His voice was rough, desperate. âI love you. Iâve always loved you. I didnât realize it before, but now⊠I do. I understand now. Youâre the one I want.â
Hinataâs eyes glistened, her breathing still shallow but steadying. âNarutoâŠâ she whispered, her voice trembling. âI⊠I told you because I⊠wanted you to know. Even if⊠I didnât make it.â
Naruto shook his head fiercely. âDonât talk like that. Youâre going to be okay. You hear me? Youâre going to be fine.â
She let out a soft laugh, though her breath came in weak gasps. âYou⊠always talk too much.â
Naruto smiled, despite the tears in his eyes. âThatâs because Iâve got too much to say. And Iâm never letting you forget it.
The world outside remained quiet. The war had ended, but here, time seemed to stand still. Naruto leaned closer until his lips hovered over hers.
âI promise, Hinata,â he murmured, voice low and steady. âIâll be here. Iâll be by your side, no matter what. If this is the last thing I do⊠Iâll stay here. Iâll fight for you. Iâll love you, Hinata Hyuga, for the rest of my life.â
Her lips parted slightly, her breath coming slower, but she managed a faint smile. âI⊠believe you, Naruto-kun.â
His heart thundered in his chest. He pressed his forehead to hers again, gripping her hand as if letting go would mean losing her all over again. âYouâre not going anywhere. Iâll protect you⊠forever.â
For a moment, the monitorâs beeping was steady. Her breathing even. Naruto relaxed slightly, allowing himself to rest his cheek against her hand. But in the quiet of that early morning, a shadow flickered behind the medics in the hallway.
Someone watched.
Naruto did not notice it. He was too focused on her.
Hinataâs eyelids fluttered again. Her breath hitched. Then, faintly, she whispered, âNarutoâŠâ
And just as his heart soared at the sound of her voice, the heart monitor gave a long, sharp beep, then silence.
The world seemed to shatter again.
Narutoâs head snapped up. âHinata?!â
The medics rushed in. The air was filled with hurried footsteps and shouted commands. But Naruto only heard her name.
And in the stillness, before everything became chaos again, he clutched her hand tighter.
NARUTO x HINATA FANFIC (After Pain Episode, Alternate Story)
Chapter 1.4 â The Waiting
Night deepened over Konoha. Outside the medical tent, the wind whispered softly through tattered banners still fluttering from the aftermath of battle. The air carried the scent of dust, blood, and rain-soaked earth. Somewhere far away, a lone cicada sang, a fragile sound in a world that had just survived annihilation.
Inside the infirmary, the hum of machinery filled the silence.
Naruto remained in the chair outside Hinataâs room, shoulders slumped, eyes fixed on her still form. His knuckles were white where he gripped the cot railing, fingers brushing against the thin blanket that covered her. Every sound â the faint creak of a floorboard, the sigh of a medic passing, the soft beeping of the heart monitor, sharpened his nerves.
His own heartbeat drummed loud in his ears.
He didnât speak anymore. Words felt useless. The moments stretched endlessly, time distorting. Every second she lay unconscious felt like a lifetime. And every heartbeat, every faint rise of her chest, was a victory he clung to desperately.
Narutoâs mind drifted again, pulled under by the tide of memory.
He remembered a different night. One from years ago.
They had been children, sneaking into the training grounds under the pale moonlight after curfew. Naruto had been practicing rasengan without permission, sweat dripping down his face. Hinata had sat quietly at the edge, silently watching, her hands folded in her lap. When he had fallen after a particularly clumsy attempt, she had stepped forward with a soft voice.
âNaruto-kun⊠youâre trying too hard.â
He had laughed, wiping blood from his lip. âI have to be stronger. For everyone.â
She had looked at him with those pale lavender eyes, unwavering, tender, before lowering her gaze. Naruto hadnât understood then. But now he did.
She wasnât worried about strength for its own sake. She was worried about him.
And she had loved him quietly, all along.
Naruto blinked, forcing himself out of the memory. His voice was barely a whisper.
âIâm sorry⊠I didnât know⊠I didnât see.â
He leaned forward until his forehead rested lightly against her hand. Her skin was cold under his palm, but her breath was faint, a fragile thread keeping her alive.
âKakashi-sensei said sheâs strong,â he murmured. âBut Hinata⊠I need her to fight. Not because sheâs strong. Because sheâs... mine.â
The words left him raw, almost painful. He wasnât sure if he said them aloud or only to himself. But as the night stretched on, the words became a vow he repeated over and over, silently.
Somewhere near midnight, the tent flap shifted, and Sakura stepped inside with a tray of supplies. Her tired eyes softened when she saw Naruto sitting still in his chair, leaning closer to Hinataâs bed.
âYouâve been here since thenâŠ?â she asked softly, almost knowing the answer.
Naruto gave a slow nod, his gaze still locked on her. âI told you. Iâm not leaving her side.â
Sakura placed the tray down quietly and came to sit beside him. âNaruto⊠you need to rest. Youâve been running on adrenaline since the war ended.â
âI donât care,â he said firmly. His voice was hoarse, almost breaking. âShe needs me. If I rest now⊠I might wake up and she wonât be here.â
Sakura didnât argue. Instead, she gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze before leaving him in silence.
Naruto was alone again, except for her.
Naruto kept watch through the night. His eyelids grew heavier, but he forced himself to stay awake, gripping her hand as if letting go would mean losing her entirely.
At some point, in the stillness, he heard whispers. Faint, like a memory.
âHinata⊠I like you.â
It wasnât her voice. It was his own, spoken somewhere deep in his chest, in a dream-like place where his mind drifted while keeping vigil.
The words stayed with him, haunting him in the silence. He could almost hear her answer.
âIâve always loved you, Naruto-kun.â
It wasnât her voice, either. But his heart swore it was.
Narutoâs breath came in a hitch. He pressed his forehead harder against her hand. âI should have told you first,â he murmured. âI should have⊠but I will now. I promise.â
He stayed that way for hours. Not moving. Not speaking. Just waiting.
Waiting for the sound of her voice. Waiting for her to open her eyes.
Light came slowly, as if the sun itself was reluctant to rise after the night of war. A thin beam of sunlight seeped through the tent flap, casting a pale gold glow over the infirmary.
Naruto shifted, rubbing his face, his throat raw from speaking her name all night. His eyes never left her face.
The beeping of the monitor was steady nowâ a fragile peace.
For the first time in hours, he allowed himself to breathe.
But that peace was brief.
There was a faint shift in her chest.
A twitch of her fingers.
Naruto froze, heart pounding violently. He leaned closer, his breath catching. âHinataâŠ?â
Her eyelids fluttered. Slowly. Tentatively.
He could hardly believe his eyes. His hand gripped hers tighter, his voice breaking. âHinata⊠wake up. Please wake upâŠâ
Her breathing remained shallow, but the shift was enough. Enough to give him hope, enough to drive away the weight of the last hours, if only for a moment.
Naruto sat straighter, staring at her with something fierce in his eyes. âYou hear me? Iâm here. Iâm not leaving. Ever.â
The nurse returned quietly, checking her vitals. Her eyes flickered between Naruto and Hinata. âItâs too soon to tell,â she said softly.
Naruto didnât hear her. All he could see was her face, pale and still, framed by her black hair spilling over the pillow.
He gripped her hand once more, whispering fiercely, âPlease⊠stay. Donât leave me.â
Hinataâs chest rose and fell slowly⊠then stilled.
The monitor gave one long, piercing tone.
Flatline.
Naruto froze.
âNO!â he roared, shoving aside the nurse and throwing himself beside her.
Hands gripped his shoulders, pulling him away. His voice broke again, shouting into the quiet night, âHinata⊠donât leave me!â
NARUTO x HINATA FANFIC (After Pain Episode, Alternate Story)
Chapter 1.3 â Between Life and Loss
The hall outside the intensive care unit echoed with Narutoâs ragged breathing. His palms pressed into his knees as if grounding himself would stop the storm inside him. Through the glass panel, the medical-nin rushed around Hinataâs bed, their voices sharp and hurried. The monitorâs flat, unbroken tone had burned itself into his skullâ it was the sound of his own chest breaking apart.
He wanted to storm in, to grab her hand again, to scream at her to fight. But the head medic had shoved him out with firm words, and now he stood helpless, the strongest shinobi in the village unable to do anything but watch.
For once, his chakra felt meaningless. The Kyuubi inside stirred, sensing his despair, but Naruto ignored the low growl echoing in his mind. Strength couldnât heal this. Rage couldnât bring her back.
All he could do was remember was...
Flashback â Academy Days
Hinata had always sat two rows behind him, quiet, almost invisible to the rest of the class. But not to himânot entirely. Heâd noticed the way she would smile, small and shy, whenever he made a scene. Like that one time heâd shouted his dream loud enough for Iruka-sensei to scold him.
âIâll become Hokage! Believe it!â
The class had laughed. Kiba snorted, Sakura rolled her eyes, Sasuke stayed silent. But Hinata⊠Naruto remembered glancing back, just once, and seeing her chin tucked down but her lips curved upward. A smile no one else seemed to see.
It had puzzled him back then, why would she smile when no one else did? Why did her eyes always look at him with something gentler than pity, something warmer than indifference?
Back in the present
Naruto slammed his fist against the wall, the sound echoing through the sterile hall. âHinata⊠you canât leave me like this. Not when I finally, finally I see itâŠâ
The door burst open, and Shizune stepped out, sweat on her brow. âNaruto-kun, weâre stabilizing her. But itâs fragile. Sheâs fighting hard.â
Naruto staggered forward. âCan I please infuse my chakra again to her? Let me be with her please.. just for a secondââ
She hesitated. âYour chakra has been depleted badly, Naruto. It's healing slow and you know that. I'll give you one minute. No more.â
He didnât wait for further permission. He pushed inside, heart hammering. The steady beep of the monitor had returned, faint but there. Relief flooded him so suddenly his knees nearly gave out.
Hinata lay pale, lips parted slightly, oxygen mask fogging with each shallow breath. Her hand was limp at her side, an IV threaded into the back.
Naruto reached for it carefully, like she was made of glass. His rough, calloused palm enveloped her delicate fingers.
âYou scared me,â he whispered, voice cracking. âYou always say youâre not strong, that youâre not brave, but⊠Hinata, youâre the bravest person I know. You stood up to Pain when no one else could even move. You⊠you threw your life awayâfor me.â
The memory burned: her voice, steady despite the terror in her eyes. âI love you, Naruto.â
He had been too shocked to respond, too wrapped in his own battle to understand. But now, with her life slipping through his fingers, those words became the most important thing he had ever heard.
âI haven't answered you,â he admitted, his voice a whisper meant only for her. âI was stupid. I didnât even⊠I didnât know what my heart was saying. I kind of still know. But I'm willing to know.â He swallowed hard. âPlease⊠just wake up so I can say it, properly, when you can hear me.â
He squeezed her hand, praying, begging, pleading in silence.
Flashback â Chunin Exams, Neji Fight
Naruto remembered the sight of Hinata collapsing under Nejiâs ruthless strikes. Blood staining her jacket, her breath shallow, the Hyuga prodigy declaring her unfit to continue.
He had felt rage then, but also something else, a sharp fear, an unfamiliar ache that made his chest tighten.
He had sworn to Neji, to everyone, that he would win for her. Not for the exams, not for pride. For her.
He remembered her, broken and weak in the hospital afterward, smiling despite her injuries. âThank you, Naruto-kun.â
That same smile was before him now, only this time her lips werenât moving, her eyes werenât open. And he feared heâd lose the chance to ever see it again.
âNaruto.â Shizuneâs voice cut through the haze. âTimeâs up. She needs rest, and so do you.â
He clenched his jaw. âIâm not leaving.â
âYou can stay outside the room,â she relented, softer this time. âBut she needs silence, not agitation.â
Reluctantly, he released Hinataâs hand, lingering for a second longer before stepping back. He whispered, âIâll be right outside, Hinata. Donât be scared. Iâm not going anywhere.â
The hours bled together. Friends came and went. Kiba stormed down the hall demanding updates, only to crumble in relief when Shino placed a quiet hand on his shoulder. Sakura slipped inside with a healerâs precision, whispering reassurances Naruto barely heard. Even Kakashi showed up, offering quiet words of comfort before fading back into the shadows.
But Naruto never moved from the chair outside her door. He sat there, elbows on his knees, eyes fixed on the faint light seeping from her room. Each beep of the monitor kept him alive, tethered to hope.
At some point, Tsunade herself appeared, fatigue lining her face. âSheâs strong,â the Hokage said. âStronger than you think. If she wanted to give up, she would have already. But she doesnât. She has somethingâ or someoneâ to fight for.â
Naruto lifted his head, meeting Tsunadeâs steady gaze. His chest tightened. He knew. He knew who she meant.
âThen Iâll fight too,â he said, fists clenched. âIâll fight beside her, even if itâs just sitting here. Iâm not letting go.â
Late Night â The Vigil
The halls grew quiet as night deepened, but Naruto stayed, the steady rhythm of the monitor like a fragile lullaby. His eyes drooped, exhaustion threatening, but each time he caught himself drifting, he jolted upright, afraid that if he closed his eyes she would slip away.
At some point in the silence, he spoke softly, his words more confession than conversation.
âYou know, Hinata⊠all this time, I thought I was alone. I thought no one ever believed in me. But you did. You always did. Even when I messed up, even when I was just some dumb kid chasing after Sasuke and making a fool of myself.â
His throat ached. âI see it now. I see you. And Iâm not letting go.â
For the briefest moment, he thought her fingers twitched under the blanket. He blinked, leaning forward, heart pounding.
âHinataâŠ?â
Nothing. The steady rise and fall of her chest continued, unchanged.
Naruto exhaled shakily, slumping back in his chair, hope flickering but not extinguished.
Tomorrow, he told himself. Tomorrow sheâll open her eyes. And when she does, Iâll be ready.
NARUTO x HINATA FANFIC (After Pain Episode, Alternate Story)
Chapter 1.2 â By Her Side
The world narrowed to the rhythm of a machine.
Beep. Beep. Beep.
Each sound was thin, fragile, and irregular. Like a lifeline dangling by threads. Naruto sat hunched forward in the hard chair beside Hinataâs bed, both hands clutching her smaller one. Her palm was clammy against his, her fingers limp, and no matter how tightly he held on, he couldnât warm her skin.
The hospital tent around them swirled with chaos. Medic-nin darted between cots, chakra glowed green, the air buzzed with orders barked across the room, âMore pressure!â âHeâs going into shock!â âWe need another vial of blood!â
But Naruto was deaf to it all. His whole world began and ended with the girl lying before him.
Hinata Hyuga, who had stood against Pain knowing she couldnât win.
Hinata, who had whispered the words heâd longed to hear all his life, in the moment he least expected it.
Hinata, who had given everything for him.
And he hadnât even answered her.
âNarutoâŠâ Sakura crouched beside him, her gloved hands trembling from exhaustion. She had been running nonstop since the battle ended, her chakra dangerously low. Her emerald eyes softened when she saw the raw panic in his face.
âSheâs fighting,â Sakura said with tears brimming in her eyes. âBut sheâs weak. We⊠we canât promise sheâll make it through the night in this state.â
Naruto jerked his head toward her, blue eyes flashing. âDonât say that! She will make it. She has to!â
Sakura swallowed, but she didnât argue. She knew better than to take away the last strand of hope Naruto clung to. Still, she added softly, âSheâll need constant chakra infusion. Someone has to stay here to keep her stable. Iâll do what I can, but I canâtââ
âIâll do it.â Naruto cut her off, his jaw set.
Sakura blinked. âNaruto, you donât have the medical training. Youââ
âIâll stay,â he repeated firmly. His gaze returned to Hinata, his grip tightening on her hand as He started to infuse His hold with his chakra. âIâm not leaving her. Not now. Not ever again.â
There was a finality in his tone that silenced even Sakura. After a long pause, she nodded, her shoulders slumping. âAlright. But you need rest too. Donât push yourself until you collapse.â
Naruto didnât answer. His eyes were fixed on Hinata, the determination in them sharp as steel.
As the hours dragged on, he sat unmoving by her side. The clamor of the infirmary faded into background noise, replaced by the sound of the heart monitor that dictated his every breath.
Every few minutes, he can feel his tiredness but he would whisper her name. Sometimes louder, sometimes softer, but always the same plea hidden inside.
âHinata⊠donât give up. Please.â
He squeezed her hand gently, as if trying to coax a response. But her eyelids remained still, her chest rising and falling with faint, shallow breaths.
In the stillness, his mind betrayed him with memories.
He saw them as children again, Hinata, shy and quiet, peeking from behind the training fieldâs wooden posts while he shouted his dreams for the whole world to hear. He had been loud, brash, desperate for acknowledgment. She had been silent, her pale eyes following him with something he had never understood.
She was always watching⊠even when no one else cared.
He remembered the Chunin Exams. His fists had been bruised, his ribs sore after a brutal match. He had been left alone on the bench, everyone else celebrating their own matches. And then, softly, she had appeared, holding out a small jar of ointment with trembling fingers.
âYou fought well, Naruto-kun.â
He had laughed, scratching the back of his head, embarrassed. He thought she was just kind. He hadnât realized her heart was in her eyes that day.
And when Neji had beaten her mercilessly in the arena, Naruto had been the one shouting, outraged, as she struggled to stand again and again. Her courage had lit a fire in him then. Even battered and broken, she had refused to quit.
Just like today.
Naruto leaned closer, his forehead nearly touching the edge of the bed. âHinata⊠I was so stupid, right?.â His voice was low, rough with emotion. âYouâve been with me all this time, havenât you? Cheering me on when no one else did. Smiling at me even when I messed up.â
He swallowed hard, tears threatening to fall. âAnd I never really saw you. Not until you stood in front of me, ready to die⊠just so I could live.â
The monitor beeped steadily, each sound a cruel reminder of how fragile her life was.
Naruto closed his eyes, the weight of guilt pressing down on him. Why did she have to risk herself? Why didnât I stop her? Why didnât I⊠answer her?
The tent flap rustled.
âAh, so this is where you ran off to,â came a deep voice.
Naruto looked up to see Kakashi entering, his one visible eye narrowing at the sight of Hinataâs pale form. Behind him, Kiba and Shino trailed in, both dirt-streaked and weary, but their eyes widened instantly at the scene.
Kibaâs fists clenched. âHinataâŠâ His voice cracked with worry as he rushed forward, only to stop short when he saw Naruto sitting vigil at her side.
Shino remained quiet, his hands tightening at his sides.
âShe fought bravely,â Kakashi said after a long silence, his tone unusually soft. âHer courage bought you the moment you needed.â
Narutoâs lips pressed tight. He didnât want to hear about bravery or sacrifice. He just wanted her alive.
Kiba opened his mouth again, but seeing Naruto, all gloomy at her side silenced him immediately. A look full of raw emotion, desperation, and protectiveness.
âDonât worry,â Naruto said hoarsely, his hand tightening on hers. âI wonât let her go.â
Hours passed. Visitors came and went. Teammates, villagers, even Neji arrived briefly, his usual stoicism cracking when he saw Hinata motionless on the bed. Each of them offered quiet words, but none lingered long.
Only Naruto stayed.
The candlelight dimmed, then brightened again with the dawn. Naruto had not slept. He barely moved, except to adjust the blanket around Hinata or to whisper her name.
By morning, his eyes were red-rimmed, his shoulders stiff, but he remained at her side, unwilling to surrender even a second away from her.
A faint shift caught his attention.
Hinataâs lips parted slightly, a faint sigh escaping. Her eyelashes fluttered, just once.
Narutoâs heart stopped. He leaned forward immediately, his grip tightening on her hand. âHinata? Hinata, can you hear me?â
No response. Her breathing evened again, shallow but steady.
Still, the tiny sign sent warmth flooding into his chest.
âSheâs fighting,â Naruto whispered to himself, his throat thick with emotion. âSheâs fighting⊠just like she always has.â
And for the first time since the battle ended, a small smile tugged at his lips. Fragile, but real.
Naruto didnât know what the future would hold. He didnât know if she would wake tomorrow, or the day after, or not at all.
But he knew one thing: he would not leave her side again.
Because if Hinata had taught him anything, it was that love wasnât about words shouted in battle or gestures made once in desperation. It was about being there, quietly, steadfastly, when the world tried to break you apart.
So he stayed.
Hand in hand.
Heartbeat to heartbeat.
Praying, waiting, realizing.
And deep down, something inside Naruto began to shift.
NARUTO x HINATA FANFIC (After Pain Episode, Alternate Story)
Chapter 1.1 â The Weight of Her Words
The silence after war was never peaceful.
Naruto stood at the center of the ruined battlefield, his chest rising and falling with sharp, ragged breaths. The smoke cleared slowly, revealing shattered stone, torn soil, and the faint cries of the wounded scattered across what used to be Konohaâs streets. Dust coated his skin, sweat dripped from his temple, and beneath it all, the warmth of Kuramaâs chakra began to go away, leaving only exhaustion.
Pain was gone. Nagatoâs vision had faded with his final words, his dream entrusted to Naruto. For the first time since the attack began, the world did not tremble under Shinra Tensei or resonate with screams.
Everyone was cheering for Him. But the victory was hollow.
Narutoâs knuckles trembled at his sides, blood crusted along his jaw. Everyone around him, shinobi, villagers, survivors, was beginning to realize it was over. Some were cheering. Some were crying. Others, too stunned to speak, simply stared at the boy who had saved them all.
Yet Naruto heard none of it. His ears rang with a different voice.
âIâve always loved you, Naruto-kun.â
The confession had been too sudden, too raw. Even in the chaos of battle, those words had pierced through him deeper than any of Painâs black rods. He had seen her fall, lifeless, after standing between him and certain death. He had forced himself to shove that image away during the fight. He couldnât have afforded to crumble then.
But now⊠now there was no battle to distract him.
âHinataâŠâ His throat closed around her name.
The mere thought of her lying somewhere, broken and bleeding, ripped at his chest. He couldnât ignore it another second. Without waiting for orders, without acknowledging the calls of the villagers reaching for him, Naruto sprinted toward the makeshift infirmary.
The run through the ruins blurred around him. The streets he knew by heart were unrecognizable, buildings reduced to rubble, dust floating like smoke after a fire. Survivors lined the sides, whispering his name as he passed. He didnât slow down.
Every heartbeat carried him closer to where he needed to be.
The memory of her face when she stood before Pain seared in his mind, eyes firm though her body trembled, cheeks flushed yet her voice steady. For years she had followed him from the shadows, always shy, always kind. He had never realized the depth of her devotion until that moment.
And now she was fighting for her life.
"I was too blind to see. Too stupid."
His fists clenched as he pushed himself faster.
The infirmary was chaos. Rows of cots lined the remnants of a training hall, hurriedly converted into a medical ward. The air was thick with antiseptic, blood, and urgency. Medic-nin rushed between patients, their hands glowing green, their faces pale with exhaustion.
âNaruto!â A familiar voice cut through.
Sakura, hair tied back, gloves soaked crimson, looked up from where she was pressing chakra into a wounded shinobiâs chest. Relief and frustration warred in her eyes. âYou shouldnât be running aroundâyouâve just foughtââ
âWhereâs Hinata?â Naruto cut her off, his voice rougher than he intended. His hands shook, his chest rising too fast. âWhere is she?â
Sakura blinked, then softened. She didnât ask whyâshe already knew. Wordlessly, she gestured toward a row of cots near the back. âSheâs critical, Naruto. We thought she's already okay but⊠weâre doing everything we can.â
He didnât wait for more. He shoved past rows of medics and patients, ignoring the stares, until he saw her.
Hinata lay still, her small frame dwarfed by the bed. Bandages wrapped tightly around her torso, stained with fresh crimson where the wounds seeped through. Her dark hair spilled across the pillow, strands clinging to the sweat on her pale skin. A mask covered her mouth, feeding her shallow breaths of oxygen.
Naruto froze.
He had faced monsters. He had fought gods. But nothing had ever made him feel this powerless.
âH-HinataâŠâ His voice cracked as he stumbled to her side. He reached for her hand but hesitated, afraid she might slip away if he touched her. Finally, with trembling fingers, he laced his hand with hers.
Her skin was ice cold.
The heart monitor beeped faintly beside her, too slow, too fragile. Every sound made his stomach twist tighter.
Sakura appeared behind him, wiping her hands quickly. âNaruto⊠the rods punctured near her heart. I thought I have healed her but turns out, her wound just closed temporarily. She still lost a lot of blood before we could get to her. Iââ She hesitated, glancing at his face. âWeâre fighting to stabilize her. But.. I think You should just be aware for the worstââ
âNo.â His head jerked up, eyes blazing with desperation. âDonât say that, Sakura-chan. Donât you dare.â
Sakuraâs lips pressed tight. She placed a hand on his shoulder, but he shook it off and bent over Hinata, clutching her hand tighter.
The memories came unbidden, flooding him until his chest ached.
He remembered her shy smile during the Chunin Exams, when she had quietly offered him ointment for his bruises. He had thought it was just kindness back then.
He remembered her standing up to Neji in that same exam, her spirit burning brighter than her fear. She had fallen that day, but her courage had shone.
He remembered her soft encouragement whenever he stumbled, her presence in the background when no one else believed in him. She had always been there. Always.
And he had been too wrapped up in his own loneliness to notice.
Now, staring at her fragile form, her words echoed again.
âIâve always loved you, Naruto-kun.â
His throat tightened, tears burning at the edges of his eyes. âHinata⊠why would you risk yourself like that? For me? Why didnât I see it sooner?â
The monitor beeped faintly, steady but fragile.
Naruto bowed his head, his forehead pressing against her cold hand. âPlease, Hinata⊠you canât leave me. Not when I finally understandâŠâ
He shut his eyes, and the memory of her brave, trembling voice replayed until it carved itself into his soul.
The room faded around him. The world outside, the cheers, the villagers, the praise, all of it meant nothing compared to this moment.
For the first time, Naruto Uzumaki prayed not for victory, not for acknowledgment, but for one girlâs heartbeat to keep going.
Jeju Island was in full bloom, a serene paradise that seemed to mirror the love filling the air. The sun hung low on the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the ceremony venue, which overlooked the ocean. Rows of elegant white chairs were lined up on a lush green lawn, adorned with soft pink and white flowers. A delicate arch framed the altar, draped in sheer fabric that fluttered gently in the breeze.
This was itâ Dong Wook and Y/Nâs wedding day.
The Bridal Room
Y/N stood in front of the mirror, her wedding gown a masterpiece of delicate lace and flowing silk. Her hair was swept into an elegant half updo, with soft curls framing her face. The faintest blush dusted her cheeks as her best friends, Taeyeon, Tiffany, and Sunny, circled her, admiring her transformation.
âYou look like a princess straight out of a fairy tale,â Tiffany gushed, her eyes sparkling.
âNo,â Taeyeon corrected, her grin teasing. âShe looks better than a princess. She looks like the queen whoâs about to conquer the world.â
Y/N laughed, shaking her head at her friendsâ antics. âStop, youâre going to make me cry and ruin my makeup.â
Sunny stepped closer, holding Y/Nâs hands gently. âYou deserve this moment, Y/N. All of it. Weâve seen you grow, love, and heal. And now, youâre glowing, inside and out. Dong Wook Oppa is so lucky to have you.â
Y/Nâs eyes welled with tears, but she blinked them back, squeezing Sunny's hands. âI wouldnât be here without you three. Youâve been my rock through everything.â
Taeyeon raised a glass of champagne. âTo Y/N, the most stunning bride and our forever best friend. Letâs get you married!â
They all clinked their glasses together, laughing and cheering before Tiffany added, âBut if Dong Wook makes you cryâjust onceâIâm flying to Seoul to slap him.â
Y/N laughed, shaking her head. âI think heâs more afraid of you than my brothers.â
As her best friends stepped out to let the bride breathe, her four brothersâRusty, Bobie, Zeke, and Rafâburst into the room, each dressed in dapper suits. Their energy was infectious.
âLook at you, sis!â Raf exclaimed, his jaw dropping. âAre you sure youâre the same Y/N who used to boss us around?â
Bobie smirked. âSheâs still going to boss us around. She just upgraded to wedding queen status.â
Zeke reached out and gently adjusted the veil on her head. âYou look beautiful, sis. Dong Wook hyung better know how lucky he is.â
Rusty, the eldest of the four, wiped an exaggerated fake tear. âOur baby sister is all grown up.â
Y/N rolled her eyes at him playfully. âIâm older than you, Rusty.â
Her brothers surrounded her in a warm group hug, their usual banter giving way to genuine emotion. Bobie whispered, âWeâre proud of you, Y/N. Really proud.â
âAnd if Dong Wook hyung ever hurts you,â Zeke added with a wink, âheâll have to answer to all four of us.â
Y/N laughed through her tears. âThank you, guys. I love you all so much.â
Finally, her parents entered the room. Her mother, dressed in an elegant gown, had tears streaming down her cheeks the moment she saw Y/N. Her father, a stoic man, looked at his daughter with a mix of pride and emotion.
âMom, donât cry,â Y/N said, though her own voice wavered.
Her mother cupped Y/Nâs face. âHow can I not? Youâre my baby, and youâre so beautiful. Seeing you happy like this is everything Iâve ever wanted for you.â
Her father took her hand, his voice steady but full of warmth. âYouâve grown into a strong, incredible woman. And today, youâre starting a new chapter. But no matter what, youâll always be my little girl.â
Y/N hugged them both tightly, the moment etched in her heart forever. âThank youâfor always supporting me, even when I made mistakes. I wouldnât be here without you.â
Her mother kissed her cheek. âNow go. Your groom is waiting.â
Dong Wookâs Side
Meanwhile, Dong Wook was in the hall with his family and friends. His parents beamed with pride, his mother fussing over his tie while his father teased, âRelax, son, sheâs already agreed to marry you.â
His sister, her husband, and their two kids added to the lively scene. The kids tugged at his sleeves, giggling. âUncle Wookie, are you going to cry when you see her?â
Gong Yoo and Chang Hee stood nearby, sharing a drink and watching the chaos. Gong Yoo grinned. âYouâre sweating already, Dong Wook. Is it the suit or the nerves?â
âBoth,â Dong Wook muttered, running a hand through his hair.
Yoo Jae Suk, the officiant, walked over, a mischievous glint in his eye. âI have a great opening line for the ceremony: âWook Dongie, do you promise not to cry before Y/N does?ââ
Dong Wook groaned, but everyone burst into laughter, easing the tension.
The Ceremony Begins
The guests were seated, the atmosphere serene and elegant under the warm glow of the setting sun. Soft music played as everyone turned their attention to the aisle.
At the altar, Dong Wook stood tall in his tuxedo, his hands clasped in front of him, but his heart raced as the doors slowly opened.
There she was.
Y/N stepped into view, her gown flowing like liquid light, her veil framing her radiant face. Gasps of awe rippled through the crowd. Her father escorted her down the aisle, his hand steady on hers.
Dong Wookâs breath caught, his eyes never leaving hers. In that moment, she wasnât just his brideâshe was his everything.
As she reached the altar, her father placed her hand in Dong Wookâs. Their eyes met, and the world around them seemed to fade.
âYouâre stunning,â Dong Wook whispered, his voice thick with emotion.
âYou donât look so bad yourself,â Y/N replied softly, her smile radiant.
The ceremony and reception was a joyful celebration. Gong Yoo gave a heartfelt and humorous speech, recounting stories of Dong Wookâs adorable jealousy around Y/N before they even started dating.
âI just know that Y/N liked the Meâ the Goblin more than the Grim Reaper. Right, Y/N-ie?â which earned a playful glare from Dong Wook and a laugh from the crowd.
Taeyeon, Tiffany, and Sunny gave a joint speech that had everyone laughing and crying in equal measure. âWeâre giving you to him, Y/N,â Tiffany joked. âBut donât forgetâweâre still your first loves.â
Laughter, dancing, and joy filled the night.
Home
Their penthouse suite overlooked the Han River, the moonlight casting a silver glow through the large windows. Y/N stood by the balcony wearing her robe as she just finished her bath. Her silhouette breathtaking against the night sky.
Dong Wook approached her, wrapping his arms around her waist. âMrs. Lee,â he murmured, his lips brushing her ear.
She turned to face him, her eyes glimmering. âI like the sound of that.â
Their kisses deepened, their touches growing more intimate as the night unfolded. Every moment was filled with passion and tenderness, their love consuming them entirely.
As they lay tangled in each otherâs arms, Dong Wook brushed a strand of hair from her face. âI promise to love you, protect you, and cherish you every day of my life.â
Y/N smiled, her hand resting on his chest. âAnd I promise to trust you, stand by you, and love you with all my heart.â
Their lips met in a soft, lingering kiss, sealing their vows once more.
And as the night stretched on, they held each other close, ready to face their forever together.
I fixed my makeup as best I could, but it was no useâmy face was a mess of tears. I tried to compose myself as I looked in the mirror. âGet it together,â I whispered to myself, taking a deep breath.
I was about to step into an arena filled with 20,000 people, and I wasnât going to let the tears ruin this moment. Not now.
I smiled softly, knowing that this was for himâfor Dong Wookâand for us. No more goodbyes. No more regrets. I could feel it in my bones: everything had led to this point, and nothing else mattered.
As I stepped out into the arena, the sounds of the crowd hit me like a wave. The atmosphere was electric, a sea of fans cheering, screaming, and waving banners. I took my seat, heart racing. I was so happy for himâso proud of him. This was his moment, and I couldnât wait to talk to him afterward. I knew Iâd be able to hold him again, to see his beautiful face up close, and tell him everything I had been holding inside.
The show began, and the energy in the arena was contagious. The lights, the music, the performancesâit was all dazzling.
Dong Wook was incredible on stage, his charisma and charm captivating everyone in the audience. There was even a funny interaction with some fans during one of the dance numbers that made me laugh. I couldnât stop smiling. Every part of this performance was a reminder of the love I had for him.
The night felt like a blur, with Dong Wook singingâ song after song filling the air, the crowd chanting his name. I could see the excitement and love on his face, the way he connected with each of them. But every time he looked at the crowd, my heart did a little flip, because I knew he was thinking of me. I could see it in his eyesâthe same way I was thinking of him.
As the show neared its end, Dong Wook stood before the microphone, looking out at the crowd. I could tell he was a little emotional, his voice filled with gratitude as he spoke to his fans.
âThank you all for being here tonight. Iâve always believed in the power of love and support, and I want to say that none of this would be possible without each and every one of you. You have all made my journey so special, and Iâm so thankful. Thank you for believing in me, for staying by my side.. Please know that I am the happiest in my life right now and I hope you continue to support me in the future.â
He then looked on my sideâ at me, âI am not and will never be perfect. But I promise to keep giving my best for you, always⊠I love you.â
The fans shrieked, their cheers echoing through the stadium. It was overwhelming, and for a moment, I thought I might cry again. But I knew that the last words he spoke, werenât just for the fans.
Specially those three simple words. He was looking directly at me, and in that moment, I knew it was for me. He loved me. And I felt that love wrap around me like a warm embrace.
I smiled, my heart full. I was so proud to be his girl.
After the show, I made my way backstage, following the staff who had been briefed about my arrival. I knocked on the same green room door where I had seen him earlier, and when it opened, Dong Wook greeted me with a smile that melted my heart.
Without saying a word, he pulled me into the room, closing the door behind me. The next thing I knew, his lips were on mine, urgent and desperate, as if he couldnât wait any longer. I kissed him back, my heart soaring at the feeling of his touch.
He pushed me gently against the door, one hand on my nape while his other hand roaming to my waist as if trying to pull me closer. I wrapped my arms around him, feeling the tension in his body as we kissed.
It was passionate, full of everything we had both been holding in these past few months. The kiss deepened, our breaths mingling, and I could feel every ounce of emotion flowing between us.
âYou have no idea how much Iâve missed you,â he murmured between kisses.
âI think I do,â I whispered back, smiling against his lips. âI missed you more than you know.â
He pulled back slightly, his forehead resting against mine. âWeâve waited so long for this. I wonât let you go again, Y/N. Not ever.â
I smiled, my hands running through his hair. âIâm not leaving whatever happens. Weâre together now, and thatâs all that matters.â
We laughed softly, the joy of the moment overwhelming us. The past was behind us, and the future was all that mattered. I was here, with him, and we were never going to let each other go.
Later that evening, we drove home, the car filled with the comfort of each otherâs presence. We didnât say much on the way, both of us lost in our thoughts, but it didnât matter. We were together again, and that was enough.
When we arrived at the penthouse which I missed so dearly. We couldnât wait to get inside. We went straight to the bedroom, and without a word, we crawled under the covers. He held me close, our bodies fitting together like they were always meant to.
Then we talked, laughed, and cried all at once, reminiscing about the past, about everything we had been through, and everything that had brought us to this moment.
âI still canât believe weâre back,â he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. âI thought this day would never come again.â
I cupped his face in my hands, kissing him gently. âDeep down, Iâve always hoped it would. I prayed for it every night.â
He kissed me, softly at first, then with more urgency as the weight of our time apart finally hit us. I never wanted to leave his arms again. We spent the night wrapped in each otherâs warmth, knowing that we had both finally come home.
As the morning light filtered through the window, I whispered, âWeâve been through so much, but we made it. I promise to never leave you again.â
Dong Wook smiled, his fingers gently brushing through my hair. âI promise the same. No matter what happens, weâll face it together. I love you.â
He leaned down and kissed me deeply, sealing our vows with a promise to never let go, no matter what the future held.
And in that moment, I knew, without a doubt, that we were exactly where we were meant to be. Together, forever.
(To be continued)
Previous â Chapter 33 â Bonus Chapter
Author's Note: And we're doneee! Yiippeee! <3
Again, i posted this here after Lucid dreaming this one night lmao Hope someone will enjoy my delulu dream!
The days leading up to my 25th anniversary event had been a blur of rehearsals, interviews, and preparations. I had been pushing myself harder than everâworking non-stop, barely sleeping, barely eating. I threw myself into my work, hoping the exhaustion would dull the ache in my chest. But it didnât.
Every moment, every second, my mind kept wandering back to her. Is she okay? Where is she? Why isnât she contacting me? I tried to push the questions away, but they clung to me like a shadow. I missed her so much it hurt, but I didnât know where to start.
Will she accept me again? The fear of her rejecting me and that I would never see her again for good this time, consumed me.
But just for today, just for this event, I decided to focus on the here and now. My anniversary celebration. I had worked so hard for this day, and I wasnât going to let my emotions ruin it. I needed to give it my allâentertain my fans, smile, and do what I do best.
But then, once this was over, I would go looking for her. I would find her, no matter what it took. She couldnât just disappear from my life.
âJust a little longer, Dong Wook-ah. Hold on,â I whispered to myself as I walked toward the stage.
Iâll find you. I swear I will.
As I was lost in my thoughts, Chang Heeâs voice broke through the haze of my mind.
âHyung, the backstage event is about to start,â he said, looking at me with his usual grin.
I nodded, trying to smile back, though it didnât reach my eyes. "Got it, Chang Hee. Thanks."
âGood luck today, hyung,â he said with a cheerful tone. "Enjoy the day!"
I forced a smile, nodding again. This was it. My chance to interact with my fans, to give them a part of myself. I loved these events, and I always tried to make each one memorable. They were the reason I was here today, after all.
I walked onto the assigned room, my heart thumping in my chest, ready to meet the 25 lucky fans who had won the raffle. The excitement was palpable, and as I greeted each fan, I couldnât help but feel a small thrill. Each fanâs face lit up when they saw me, and their excitement was infectious.
There were funny momentsâone fan had brought a sign that read, "Iâm your future wife," and another had a full album of pictures they had taken of me from my previous drama.
I couldnât help but laugh as they handed me a specially made fan light stick shaped like a heart, and another even gave me a small, fluffy plushie of a character from one of my shows. Each interaction was sweet, and each fanâs energy kept me going.
But as the day went on, I couldnât help and be a little distracted. I found myself glancing at the clock, wondering where she was. Was she okay? Had she heard about the event? Would she come? The questions wouldnât stop, but I pushed them aside, focusing on the present.
Just a few more fans then the main event. And I can go look for her, I told myself.
Two hours flew by in a blur, and soon I will meet my 25th and final fan. I had made it. One last fan left, and then I could rest.
I walked out of the green room. âChang Hee,â I called out. âIâm just going to the toilet real quick.â
âAlright, hyung. Iâll go bring the last person,â he said.
I walked down the corridor, the cool air helping to clear my head. As I passed the large mirrors, I paused for a moment. I looked at myselfâhaggard, tired. My usual composed self felt like a stranger in the reflection.
Just hang on a little longer. Focus on today, Dong Wook. Tomorrow, youâll go find her.
I sighed deeply, running a hand through my hair, trying to shake off the weariness. I had to be strong. For myself, for her, for everyone who supported me.
I went back to the green room, but as I reached for the door, I realized Chang Hee wasnât outside anymore. The hall was quiet, empty.
Frowning, I pushed the door open, planning to check the room if the last fan was there already, but then I froze.
There, by the large window, was a figure standing with their back to me. She was facing the glass, looking out over the city, the soft glow of the full moonlight framing her silhouette. My heart skipped a beat. It couldnât be. Could it? No..
My heart raced as I stepped into the room and saw her standing there, her back turned to me. There was something about her posture, something familiar about the way she held herself, but I couldnât place it. I walked toward her slowly, calling out in confusion, âAnnyeong haseyoâŠâ
She turned slowly, and time seemed to freeze. Another deja vu.
My breath caught in my throat as our eyes met. There was no mistakeâit was her. It is My Y/N.
Her face was so familiar, but different, as though a lifetime had passed between us. I stood there, motionless, too stunned to speak. And then, the words that made my heart shatter came from her lips.
âAnnyeong, Oppa.â
The sound of her voice, so tender, so full of emotion, broke me. I ran to her without thinking, pulling her into my arms so tightly I was afraid I might crush her. I buried my face in her hair, inhaling the scent of her, the scent I had missed so much. It was real. She was here, in my arms, and I couldnât believe it.
âIs this a dream?â I whispered, my voice thick with emotion. I pulled back slightly, just enough to look into her eyes, searching for some sign that this wasnât just a figment of my imagination. She smiled softly, her eyes filled with tears.
âNo,â she whispered, wiping a tear from my cheek. âThis is real.â
I could hardly believe it. After all the months of wondering, of hoping, here she was. I let out a shaky breath, my heart pounding. âIâm sorry⊠Iâm sorry for everything. I never meant to hurt you. Iâve missed you so much.â
Y/N cupped my face, her hands warm against my skin, and wiped away my tears. She smiled at me through her own tears. âIâm sorry if I made you wait and suffer,â she said softly.
I shook my head, my heart swelling with both joy and regret. âNo, no. It was my fault. I shouldâve explained everything sooner. I shouldâve never let you go.â
She looked at me, her eyes searching mine, and then said, her voice barely above a whisper, âNo more apologies. Iâm here now. Let's forgive each other, hmm?â
I swallowed hard, trying to hold back my emotions. âBut I have to apologize one more thing... in advance.â
Y/N furrowed her brow. âWhat for?â
I took a deep breath and said, my voice shaky but resolute, âBecause you can't leave now. Iâm not letting you go again.â
She stared at me for a moment, her expression unreadable, and then, as if the weight of my words finally sank in, she let out a small chuckle. âDeal,â she said softly.
I cupped her face and kissed her slowly. I closed my eyes, feeling the immense relief flood over me. I felt her arms wrapped around my neck, pulling me closer.
She is here, and she is staying. I didnât care about anything else in that moment.
All I wanted was her. The past months of pain and longing had all led to this momentâthis beautiful moment where we could finally start again. I missed her so much..
Before I could deepen our kiss, the door suddenly burst open, and Chang Hee stumbled into the room. He froze when he saw us, his eyes wide in shock. He was holding a drink in his hand, which promptly dropped to the floor with a loud thud.
âHyung! What... What is going on?â Chang Heeâs voice was a mixture of surprise and confusion. He stared at Y/N, blinking rapidly, as if trying to process the situation.
I couldnât help but laugh, the sound filled with so much relief. âI think you can tell what's going in.â I said, pulling Y/N closer to me.
Chang Heeâs mouth hung open for a moment before he started to laugh too. Tears welled up in his eyes as he shook his head. âI canât believe it⊠Hyung, Iâm so happy for you. This is the best anniversary gift you could ask for so I won't buy you one now.â
Y/N laughed through her tears. âI think Iâve made the whole room cry now.â
âDon't leave him again please,â Chang Hee grinned. âOr you'll have a whole crowd of people cry. You two are a disaster.â
I smiled, feeling lighter than I had in months. âItâs a good kind of disaster, though.â
Y/N leaned her head on my shoulder, and we both stood there for a moment, simply taking in the overwhelming joy of finally being together again.
âIâm glad youâre back,â I whispered into her hair.
âIâm glad too,â she murmured, her voice muffled against my chest.
Chang Hee cleared his throat, still grinning. âAhem, guys? As much as I love the reunion and all, youâre supposed to be on stage in five minutes. The fan meetingâs about to start.â
I looked up, startled. âWait, the event is starting?â I glanced at the clock and realized Chang Hee was right. I had completely lost track of time. I looked at Y/N, my heart still racing. âIâm sorry, I need to get ready. But I donât want to leave you. Can we⊠can we talk later?â
Y/N smiled, her eyes sparkling with happiness. âGo on. Youâve got fans waiting for you. Iâll be here.â
I nodded, still reluctant to leave her, but knowing I owe this day to my fans. Chang Hee clapped me on the back as he handed me a towel to wipe my face, still laughing at the scene he had walked in on.
âYouâre lucky, hyung. This is a real happy ending.â
âThis isn't ending,,â I said with a wink. âWe're just starting.â
Chang Hee grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. âDonât make me cry, man. Iâm already a mess. Go, enjoy your event, and donât keep her waiting too long.â
I smiled, gave one last lingering glance at Y/N, and walked out of the room, ready to face my fans once more. But this time, there was a peace in my heart that had been missing for so long.
And I knew that no matter what happened, I wouldnât be alone again.
Five days in Seoul. Time had flown by, and the day after tomorrow would mark the end of this journey. I had no regrets. I had visited all the spots Dong Wook and I had shared, reliving memories that once felt like a dream.
The quiet streets where we walked, the places where we laughed, and the meals we ate togetherâthey all felt like fragments of a beautiful story that was now sealed away in my heart. I was healing, I could feel it. Slowly but surely, the weight of the past was lifting.
Yet, despite everything, I couldnât shake the feeling that something was missing. A part of me still wondered about Dong Wook. How was he? Was he doing okay? I knew that part of me was still clinging to the hope that somehow, in some way, I would find the closure I needed. But I wasnât sure if I was ready to face him again.
Maybe just a glance, though. I could just see him from a distance, check if he was okay.
With that thought in mind, I decided to make one last stop before I left. I asked the cab driver to take me to King Kong by Starship Agency. I had no clear intention of meeting Dong Wook, but a small part of me wondered what it would feel like to be near him again.
As the taxi pulled up to the building, I could already see a crowd forming outside. Fans were everywhereâexcited, buzzing with energy. The air was thick with anticipation. I took a deep breath, adjusting my mask and cap, pulling my sunglasses lower to shield my face. I'm not known but iI didnât want to risk of anyone to recognize me here, I plan to check on Dong Wook peacefully and go.
I stepped out of the taxi and joined the growing crowd. There was a long line, snaking down the block, and people were chatting excitedly. The energy was contagious, but I tried to keep myself calm. As I stood there, I couldnât help but feel a twinge of nostalgia. This placeâthis very spotâwas where I once stood beside him, laughing, waiting for something so simple yet so significant.
As I continued to walk around, I overheard a conversation between two girls nearby. One of them was excitedly talking about the event.
âI hope I get picked!â the girl said. âOnly 25 fans will be chosen for Dong Wook Oppaâs 25th anniversary event! The winners get to do a private hi-touch and photo with him before the main event!â
I froze for a moment. A chance to meet Dong Wook? My heart skipped a beat. I knew I shouldnât, but the curiosity gnawed at me. What would it be like? To see him again, even from a distance?
I turned to the girl, trying to keep my voice steady. âExcuse me, can you tell me more about the raffle?â
The girl smiled and nodded. âOf course! You just need to register here. If you win, you get to meet him backstage before the event. Itâs a huge deal! Itâs all set up by his agency for free!â
I thanked the girl with a tight smile, feeling a strange flutter in my chest. Part of me was hesitant, but part of me thought, Whatâs the harm? It could be a sign, something the universe was giving me as a final moment to face him.
I knew it sounded crazy, but I couldnât ignore the feeling that this was meant to be. Without much more thought, I decided to join the line and register. If I won, it would be a sign that maybe, just maybe, I can just ask how he is now and maybe get a proper closure.
If I didnât, I promised myself that I would let go of this chapter of my life, once and for all. No more second-guessing. No more wondering.
After registering, I stood there for a while, the excitement of the crowd rubbing off on me. Maybe this was fate. I've never won anything in my life but got picked for the trip here so I know that was a one time thing. But I still want to try my luck.
Maybe this was my chance to finally see him, to get one last glimpse of him before I went back home for good.
The night came, and I returned to my hotel, feeling strangely excited and anxious all at once. I freshened up, changed into something simple yet comfortable, and sat in front of my laptop. The announcement of the raffle winner would be made in just a few minutes.
I kept refreshing the page over and over, my heart pounding in my chest. My hands shook as I clutched my registration number, praying to whatever forces were out there to give me this moment. I needed it. I wasnât sure why, but I needed to see him again.
The countdown on the website ticked down. I bit my lip, unable to calm my nerves. Please... just this one last thing. Let me have this.
I refreshed the page once more. And finally, the list of winners appeared.
I quickly scrolled through, scanning for my number.
Nothing.
I knew my luck ran out after getting picked for the trip here. I knew It's imposible for me to get picked to meet Dong Wook.
I knew all that but It still hurts, It hurts so much.
I closed my laptop and lay down on my bed. I stare at the ceiling for a while, thinking that maybe this is for the better. I came here to heal, to close a chapter of my life so I can move on, but I know that a small part of me still hopes that some miracle will happen and we can get back together.
Without realizing, my tears started falling for what seems like a long time.
Let it be, I'm crying my heart out for the last time today.
After a while, I felt my phone buzz. Someone's calling. It's a number I don't recognize so I ignored the call put it back downâ but it called again, so I picked it up.
"Hello?" I answered
"Yeoboseyo? Is this Kwon Y/N?"
"Yes, that's me. How can I help you?" I said while wiping down my face, trying to sound like I haven't just cried.
"Congratulations, You got picked to be a part of Lee Dong Wook's special event!! This is a staff from King Kong by Starship.. one of the picked winners for the anniversary cannot make it so we chose another numberâCongratulations, you are the lucky one!"
None of what she said registered on me fully.. It's like my brain shut down after hearing that I won. I won!
"Hello? Hello, Are you still there, Ms. Y/N?" I came back to reality after hearing that.
"Yes? I mean yes, Yes I will go! Thank you very much!"
I can feel my tears welling up in my eyes, my mind racing. So miracles do happen. It was a miracle. There was no way. I had won, again.
I couldnât breathe. The world around me felt like it had frozen, and all I could do was stare at the screen in disbelief. My hands were shaking now, tears are falling. I had won.
For a moment, I just sat there, completely still, trying to process what this meant. It was as if the universe had heard my silent prayer.
But what was I supposed to do now? Would this give me the courage I needed? To face him? To check on him? To say my final goodbye?
I glanced at the clock. The event would be tomorrow, and I was no longer sure if I was ready for this. But in that moment, something inside me shifted. Perhaps this was the universe giving me one last chance to make peace with everythingâto face the past and take that next step, whatever it might be.
I took a deep breath, holding the registration number close to my chest, and whispered to myself, This is it, Y/N. You can do this.
âSeoul,â I whispered, the name rolling off my tongue like an incantation. It felt strange and comforting all at once, like slipping on an old sweater that still carried the scent of memories long past. Everything seemed the sameâthe same signs, the same hurried footsteps, the same quiet hum of a place constantly moving forward.
Yet, for me, everything was different.
I checked into my hotel, dragging my suitcase into the room before standing frozen at the door. My heart thudded in my chest, heavy and unsure. What now? The city outside the window glimmered with lights, vibrant and alive, but I felt like a ghost drifting between the past and present.
Sitting on the bed, I grabbed my phone and made the call I had been longing to make. As the screen lit up with the faces of my best friendsâTiffany, Taeyeon, and SunnyâI felt a weight lift from my shoulders.
âY/N!â Tiffanyâs voice squealed through the phone, her wide grin lighting up the screen. âI missed you! How are you? What's the tea? Tell us everything!â
I tried to match her excitement, forcing a smile that didnât quite reach my eyes. âGuess where I am,â I teased lightly, though my voice trembled with emotion. âSouth Korea.â
âYou're in where??!â Sunny quipped, her tiny eyes almost popping out. âBut where are you exactly? How are you feeling? Are you... okay?â
I laughed softly, shaking my head. âIâm here, in Seoul, and⊠I donât know how I feel. Everythingâs so familiar but so foreign at the same time. Itâs like Iâm walking through a memory, but itâs all hazy, like I donât quite belong anymore.â
Taeyeon leaned closer to the camera, her expression soft with concern. âYou donât have to figure it all out today, Y/N. Just take it slow, one step at a time. Youâre already so brave for going back there.â
âExactly,â Tiffany chimed in, her voice firm but encouraging. âTake it all in. Feel it, but donât let it overwhelm you. Remember, youâre not the same girl who left that place scared and broken. Youâre stronger now.â
Sunny smiled warmly. âAnd youâve got us. Always. Even if weâre miles away, weâre still right here.â
Their words, their unwavering support, were a balm to the ache in my chest. For months, I had felt like I was walking this road alone, but hearing their voices reminded me that I wasnât.
âThank you,â I whispered, blinking back tears. âI needed this. I needed you.â
After we said our goodbyes, I stared at the blank screen, letting their words sink in. I didnât have a plan, but maybe I didnât need one. Maybe all I needed was to take it one day, one step, at a time.
The next morning, I woke up with a sense of determination. I couldnât let fear keep me locked away in this room. Not when the entire city was waiting for me.
Stepping onto the streets of Seoul was like stepping back in time. The sights, the smells, the soundsâit all came rushing back in waves of nostalgia. As I walked, my feet seemed to find their way on their own, guiding me to places I hadnât dared to think about for years.
When I arrived at the Galbi restaurant Dong Wook and I used to frequent, I stopped in my tracks. The warm aroma of grilled meat wafted through the air, pulling me in like a magnet. Without much thought, I stepped inside, the familiarity of the place wrapping around me like a comforting hug.
âOmo! Itâs been a while!â The elderly woman behind the counter beamed at me, her eyes lighting up with recognition. âWookdongieâs wife, right? He always spoke so fondly of you!â
My heart clenched at her words and I can feel my eyes water, but I forced a polite smile. âYes⊠thatâs me,â I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper.
She chuckled warmly, gesturing toward the back of the restaurant. âIâll set up your usual room. You two always loved it there.â
I nodded, following her to the small private room where Dong Wook and I used to sit. Everything looked exactly the sameâthe wooden walls, the soft lighting, the quiet ambiance. Sitting at the familiar table, memories flooded back with an intensity that took my breath away.
His laughter, the way his eyes sparkled when he teased me about my tiny appetite, the quiet moments we shared here, just the two of us against the worldâit all came rushing back, bittersweet and raw.
For a moment, I let myself feel it. The warmth of those memories, the ache of their absence. And then, I let them go.
Later that afternoon, I found myself standing by the Han River, the water shimmering under the soft glow of the setting sun. This was where we had shared so many dreams, whispered so many promises. But now, it was just me.
And yet, for the first time in years, I didnât feel weighed down by the loneliness. Instead, I felt a flicker of hope. The river seemed to whisper to me, its gentle ripples reminding me that life keeps flowing, no matter what.
As the sun dipped lower, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, I made a promise to myself.
I would take it one day at a time. I would let myself feel the pain, the love, the loss. But I wouldnât let it break me.
I wasnât that girl anymore. And I wasnât going to let the past define me.
Lee Dong Wook's POV
Another rehearsal wrapped up, and I could feel the exhaustion weighing heavily on my body. My muscles ached, my mind was foggy, and my patience was hanging by a thread. But I had to push through. I'm having my 25th anniversary event which was importantânot just for my career, but for everyone who had believed in me over the years.
The clock read 10:00 PM by the time I stumbled out of the studio. The night air was crisp and quiet, a welcome contrast to the noise and chaos Iâd left behind inside. As I wandered down the familiar streets of Seoul, my feet unconsciously led me toward comfortâtoward home.
Or at least, the closest thing to it.
The small Galbi restaurant came into view, its warm glow spilling onto the street like a beacon. My favorite place. I hadnât been here in a while, and just the thought of the sizzling meat and the welcoming smile of halmeoni (grannies) made me feel a little less alone.
Pushing open the door, I was immediately hit by the mouthwatering aroma of grilled meat and kimchi. The comforting atmosphere wrapped around me, and I felt some of the tension ease from my shoulders.
âWook Dong-ah!â The owner halmeoniâs voice rang out as she shuffled toward me, her face lighting up with delight. âItâs been so long since youâve visited! Look at you, so thin these days. Have you been eating enough?â
I chuckled softly, bowing to her. âHalmeoni, you always say that. I eat just fine, I promise.â
She gave me a once-over, her expression skeptical. âWell, youâre working too hard, I can tell. Sit, sit. Your usual room?â
âPlease,â I replied with a grateful nod, following her as she led the way.
Just as I was about to settle in, one other granny clapped her hands, her face lighting up again. âOmona! Youâre came too!â
I blinked, confused. âCame too? What do you mean?â
âYour wife!â she exclaimed cheerfully. âShe was just here a couple of days ago! What a surpriseâyou didnât come together this time?â
My chest tightened as the words sank in. âW-wife?â I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper.
Halmeoni tilted her head, frowning slightly. âOh Yes! The pretty one you always brought here before. She said she missed this place, just like you do. Ah, such a sweet girl. Always polite.â
My breath caught in my throat. I felt like the room was spinning, the weight of her words pressing down on me. âSheâs here?â I finally managed to say, my voice shaky.
Halmeoni gave me a curious look. âYes, yes! Didnât she tell you? She stayed in the private room, right there.â She pointed toward the very same room where Y/N and I had shared so many meals, so many memories.
The familiar ache in my chest returned, sharper this time. I hadnât set foot in that room since Y/N had left. And now, to know she had been here, sitting in that very spotâŠ
âHalmeoni,â I asked, trying to steady my voice, âdid she say anything else? Where she was going? Or how long sheâd be here?â
Halmeoni shook her head, oblivious to the storm brewing inside me. âShe didnât say much, just smiled a lot. But I could tell she missed this placeâand you, I think.â She patted my arm affectionately. âAh, young love. Itâs good to see her again. You two should visit together next time.â
I nodded absently, my thoughts spiraling. Y/N is here. In Seoul. The very city I thought sheâd never return to.
And I didnât know whether to be terrified or relieved.
I sank into the chair, my appetite suddenly gone. My hands trembled slightly as I stared at the empty table in front of me. She was here. After all this time, she came back.
For a brief moment, hope flickered in my chest. Maybe this was fate. Maybe it was finally my chance to make things right.
Or maybe⊠it was a chance to have a closure and let her go completely.
Eight months had passed since the day he had to let Y/N go. Time had dragged on in the emptiness she left behind, but life had continued on, relentless and unforgiving. Dong Wook threw himself into work, into the endless cycle of drama shoots, photoshoots, interviewsâanything that could fill the space in his life that had once been occupied by her smile, her laughter, the warmth of her presence.
The exhaustion was evident. He barely sleptâfour hours a night if he was lucky. His mind was always on her, even when he was surrounded by a thousand distractions. The moment he found himself alone, the thoughts of her would flood back, as strong as the first day they met. He wanted to drown out the pain, to keep himself too busy to think, but every quiet moment at night only served as a painful reminder of the love he had lost.
It was during a photoshoot one afternoon that he realized how much of a façade he had built for himself. The team was bustling around him, complimenting him on his looks as the cameras flashed. "You look incredible today, Dong Wook-shi. Your energy is amazing, as always!" one of the photographers commented, his camera clicking rapidly.
âYeah, heâs a natural,â another team member added, laughing as they adjusted his clothes.
Dong Wook offered a polite smile, nodding in acknowledgment. âThanks,â he said, but his mind wasnât there.
Behind the scenes, Chang Heeâhis long-time friend and managerâwatched him with concern. He knew Dong Wook too well. Despite the smile on his face, Dong Wookâs eyes were distant, unfocused. Chang Hee caught him in a quiet moment, stepping aside from the team to speak with him.
âYouâre still not okay, are you?â Chang Hee asked, his voice low but direct.
Dong Wook froze, his hands resting on the chair as he caught sight of his reflection in the mirror. For a moment, he didnât answer. He didnât want to admit it, not even to himself. But the weight of the question hung in the air.
âIâm fine,â Dong Wook said, his voice empty. He wasnât convincing anyoneânot even himself.
Chang Hee sighed, his voice softer now. âYou donât have to lie, hyung. Everyone can see it. Youâre not the same.â
Dong Wook clenched his jaw. âI have to keep going, Chang Hee. I donât have a choice. The work is the only thing keeping me from losing myself.â
Chang Hee studied him for a moment before speaking again, his tone serious. âYouâre burning yourself out. You need to face what happened. You canât just keep pushing it down. I know you, Hyung. Youâre not fooling anyone.â
Dong Wook said nothing. There was nothing more to say. The pain of losing Y/N was still there, gnawing at him every day, every moment. The memories of her laughter, her kindness, her voice calling his nameâit was all still too vivid, too close. The only thing he could do was run from it, try to stay busy, to lose himself in work. It was his only escape.
As the photoshoot wrapped up and he drove home, the exhaustion weighed heavily on him. The lights flickered on as he entered his apartment, but the silence greeted him like an old enemy. He hated this part of the dayâthe loneliness that seeped into every corner of the apartment, the hollow space where once she had been.
He tossed his jacket onto the couch and walked into the kitchen, pulling open the fridge. He grabbed a bottle of beer, popping the cap and letting the cold liquid slide down his throat. It was the only thing that numbed the pain, even for a brief moment. He sank onto the couch, staring at the empty apartment, at the place where she had once been.
He leaned his head back against the cushions and closed his eyes, a soft curse slipping from his lips. âDamnâŠâ he muttered, as the ache in his chest flared to life once again.
He missed her.
More than he had ever thought possible.
He took another long sip of the beer, his thoughts drifting back to her. He imagined what it would be like if she were still thereâif she hadnât left, if he hadnât let her go. He could almost see her sitting there on the couch, smiling at him, teasing him about the way he always worked too much. He could hear her voice in his head, soft and loving.
But it was all gone now.
The memories were all he had left, and they cut through him like a knife every time he thought about them.
âI miss you so bad,â Dong Wook whispered to the empty room, his voice thick with longing. He closed his eyes, trying to block out the flood of emotions. His heart ached for her. He wanted to hold her again, to make things right, to explain everything that had happened. But she was gone, and there was nothing he could do to change that.
The weight of the past eight months felt unbearable. He hadnât been able to move onâhe hadnât even tried. Everything around him reminded him of her. The apartment. His clothes. The scent of her favorite perfume that still lingered in the air.
Dong Wook took another deep breath and tried to steady himself, but it was impossible. His mind kept going back to the last words she had said to him before she walked away. The pain of her departure had been far greater than anything he had ever experienced. He had lost her, and he couldnât bear it.
âIâll wait for you, Y/N,â he whispered into the empty room, the tears welling up in his eyes. âNo matter how long it takes. Iâll wait for you.â
And for the first time in months, Dong Wook let himself cry, his body shaking as the weight of everything came crashing down on him.
Almost Two years had now passed, and Y/N's life had slowly settled back into its chaotic routine. The pain of the past still lingered in her heart, but the days had become easier to navigate. She had returned to her home, trying to focus on her work and everything that once made up her normal life. She kept herself busy, but every so often, there would be a moment when the weight of her memories would crash down on her like a tidal wave.
She was driving to the office one morning, the sun rising behind the city skyline, casting a soft glow on the streets. Her mind wandered as it often did these days. She missed Dong Wook. There wasnât a day that passed where she didnât think about him.
Her fingers tightened around the steering wheel as she approached a huge billboard on the side of the road. It was of himâLee Dong Wook, his ethereal face smiling down at the city, looking as perfect as always.
She let out a quiet sigh, a sad smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "How are you, my love?" she whispered to herself. It was a question she asked every time she saw his face, wondering if he was okay, if he was still waiting for her. The billboard had become a constant reminder of the life she had left behind, of the man who had once made her heart beat faster, and of the love that had been lost.
But Dong Wook was a dream now. Just a dream.
She shook her head, trying to rid herself of the familiar ache in her chest. Slowly, she was starting to get okay, but deep down, she knew something was missing in her life. Sheâd never truly be happy againânot the way she once was. She didnât have the heart for it anymore.
âYah! Can you believe it, Y/N?! The grand prize is a week-long all-expenses-paid trip to South Korea!â Yuri's voice was practically vibrating with enthusiasm.
When she entered the office, her co-workers were buzzing with excitement. It was the companyâs anniversary, and the CEO had just announced a raffle as part of the celebrations.
Y/N sat at her desk, trying to focus on her work, but the chatter around her was hard to ignore. Yuri, her bubbly friend, squealed from across the room, her excitement infectious.
Y/N froze, she looked up from her screen, didn't know what to say "South Korea? Thatâs... far away."
âFar away? Itâs South Korea! The place where all the drama and K-pop magic happens!â Yuri gushed, her eyes wide. âI would die to win that trip! Itâs like a dream come true!â
But it wasnât about that now. She shook her head and returned to her work, dismissing the thought.
Y/N chuckled and thought, Yeah I almost died there
But inside, she felt a small flicker of something unfamiliarâhope? Maybe. Sheâd never won anything in her life. So she is sure her chances were zero.
South Korea felt like a distant world, a place that she had left behind in her past. A place that held memories of someone she had loved and lost.
The raffle continued for a while, and Y/N barely paid attention as names were drawn. The room was full of cheers and laughter as her co-workers eagerly awaited their turn. And then, it happened.
âKwon Y/N,â the CEOâs voice rang out over the speaker system. âCongratulations, youâve won the South Korea trip!â
Y/N's jaw dropped. She froze for a moment, unsure if she had heard it right. Her name? She had won?
There was a brief silence before the office erupted into cheers. Yuri was the first to leap out of her seat, practically running toward Y/N.
âOh my god, Y/N! You actually won!â Yuri screamed, pulling Y/N into a hug. âI knew it! I knew youâd win! Itâs destiny! Itâs fate!â
Y/N could barely process it. She blinked, looking around the office as everyone gathered around to congratulate her. It felt surreal, like a dream she couldnât wake up from.
âWait⊠what?â she said in a whisper, still in shock. âI⊠I won? I'm going?â
Her boss, a grinning middle-aged woman, walked over to hand her a voucher for the trip. âCongratulations, Y/N! A week in South Korea! Iâm sure youâll have a great time. Your flight and accommodations are already booked. Itâs non-refundable, non-transferable, so you can't back out as we're posting this on our company page!â
Y/N's mind was reeling. She had won a trip to South Korea? The very place that haunted her memories?
âIâI donât know if I can goâŠâ Y/N began, her voice faltering.
âOh, come on!â Yuri urged, beaming. âYou canât pass this up! Youâll have so much fun! Think about itâan all-expenses-paid trip to one of the most amazing countries in the world! You have to go!â
Y/N hesitated. She wasnât sure what to feel. The trip to South Korea felt like a door to a past she wasnât ready to face. But at the same time, there was something stirring inside herâa flicker of excitement, a sliver of hope. Maybe this was her chance to heal. Maybe this was the universe telling her it was time to take a step forward, even if it was into the unknown.
âI guess⊠Iâll go,â Y/N said softly, her voice filled with a mix of uncertainty and reluctant excitement.
Yuri squealed again, hugging her tightly. âYes! I knew youâd say yes! You wonât regret it, I promise!â
Y/N managed a small smile, though it was tinged with sadness. She knew that no matter how far she traveled, no matter where she went, she would never truly escape the memories of Dong Wook. But maybe, just maybe, this trip would give her the distance she needed to find some peace, even if she don't plan to see Him.
For the first time in years, a tiny spark of hope flickered in her heart. Maybe South Korea was exactly what she needed.
But little did Y/N know, life had a way of bringing the past back when least expected.
Before Y/N met Dong Wook, before she understood what love should be, there was Ianâ her first love, her first heartbreak, and the beginning of her fears.
It started like every fairytale romance she had dreamed of. Ian was charming, attentive, and made her feel special in ways she had never experienced before. He would surprise her with anything material, text her sweet nothings throughout the day, and shower her with affection. For a time, Y/N believed she had found her soulmate.
They were happy. Or so she thought.
But as the weeks turned to months, small cracks began to appear in their seemingly perfect relationship. Ian would cancel plans without much explanation, his phone would constantly buzz with notifications that he refused to share, and he started being vague about where he was and who he was with.
The first time she asked him about a chat from a girl saying "Last night was amazing", her voice shaking with both fear and hope, he laughed.
âBabe, donât be ridiculous,â he said, cupping her face. âI was with the boys last night. And this isn't a hickey, It's a mosquito biteâ He laughed.
Y/N wanted so desperately to believe him so she decided to turn blind.
She clung to his words, to the warmth in his touch, to the fleeting moments when everything felt right again. But then came the whispers, the conversations from different women, the friends who don't really like her and pushed Ian to do more things.
One day, When she confronted him, her heart pounding so loudly she could barely hear herself speak, Ian denied everything. âAre you seriously accusing me of cheating?â he asked, his voice rising in anger. âWhat proof do you even have? Or are you just imagining things again?â
It was gaslighting at its finest, and Y/N fell for it. Ian would cut her off for days after arguments so she could "think of what she's done".
She felt guilty for doubting him, for being insecure, for not trusting the man she loved. And when she did find undeniable proofâmessages on his phone, photos on his laptopâIan twisted it all.
âI can't be with you anymore, You're exhausting to be with,â he said coldly. âYouâre so clingy. Always nagging me, always suspicious. Itâs too much for nothing, Y/N. No guy wants to deal with that.â
At first, she didnât recognize his manipulation for what it was. She was too naive, too in love. Instead of blaming him, she blamed herself. She promised to be better, to be the perfect girlfriend. She stopped questioning him, stopped asking for explanations.
But the cheating didnât stop.
Y/N began to unravel. She became someone she barely recognizedâa nagger, a shadow of the carefree girl she once was. She found herself watching Ian's every move, searching for clues, overthinking every word, every action, every silence. She started arguments, desperate for the truth she already knew but didnât want to face.
Ian would threaten her to break up whenever things gets heated.
Y/N broke. She begged him to stay, be faithful, to give her another chance. She told him she could change, that she could be everything he wanted. She was willing to do anything just to keep him, even if it meant giving up her dignity, her identity, her own happiness.
She chose Ian over her family, over her friends who warned her about him, over herself. She became his secret, his trophy, the girl he could pick up and put down whenever it suited him. There were no labels anymoreâjust Y/N, existing for him, losing herself a little more each day.
But even that wasnât enough for Ian.
One day, when the weight of it all became unbearable, Y/N walked away. She didnât make a scene or demand closure. She simply left.
But the damage was done.
For months, Y/N spiraled into a deep depression. She stopped eating, stopped smiling, stopped caring about anything or anyone. She would lie awake at night, staring at the ceiling, wondering why she wasnât enough. The dark thoughts crept in, whispering lies that she was too tired to fight.
Her parents were the first to notice. They intervened, pulling her back from the brink when she couldnât save herself. They brought her home, showered her with love and support, and reminded her of the person she used to be before Ian. Her friends returned too, forgiving her for the bridges she had burned in the name of love.
It took two long, grueling years for Y/N to rebuild herself. She learned how to smile again, how to trust herself, how to look in the mirror without flinching. But the scars Ian left behind never fully healed.
Thatâs why, when Dong Wookâs silence mirrored Ianâs, her heart shattered all over again. She had promised herself she would never let another man make her feel that way. And yet, here she was, standing on the precipice of the same heartbreak she had barely survived the first time.
It wasnât just about Dong Wookâit was about the fear of losing herself again, of falling into a darkness she might not escape this time.
Next: Chapter 27
Author's Note: Soooo, this may or may not be my own personal experience :) Enjoy!
I reached the airport at 7:45 PM, my hands still trembling on the steering wheel. I didnât even know how I made it in time without crashing, but none of that mattered. All I could think about was her. I parked haphazardly, not caring about the angry horns behind me, and bolted into the terminal.
My heart pounded as I scanned the departure board. Gate 32. The only 8 PM flight. My legs moved on instinct, weaving through the crowded airport. I ignored the stares as I rushed past strangers, my mind focused on one thingâfinding her.
When I reached Gate 32, I stopped, breathless. My eyes darted around the waiting area, scanning each face in line. My chest tightened when I didnât see her.
âExcuse me,â I said breathlessly to the staff member at the gate desk. âHave some passengers started boarding already?â
The staff member was shocked seeing me but nodded politely. âYes, Sir. Boarding just began a few minutes ago. The flight is delayed by 30 minutes.â
Relief and panic flooded me all at once. There was still time.
I turned back toward the boarding line, my eyes desperate to find her. For a split second, I thought about calling Sunny again, but then I saw her.
There she was.
She stood near the end of the line, her slim figure draped in a simple dress. Her hair cascaded down her back like waves of silk, but it was her posture that struck meâthe way she clutched her passport and boarding pass tightly, her knuckles white. She was tense, as if willing herself to stay strong.
âY/N,â I whispered, though my voice was swallowed by the noise of the airport.
She froze. I knew she heard me. Her entire body stiffened, and slowly, she turned her head. Her eyes locked with mine, and for a moment, the world around us faded.
I saw the flicker of emotions in her gazeâshock, pain, confusionâbut then she looked away, breaking the connection. She turned back toward the line and took a step forward, as if she hadnât seen me at all.
No. No, I wonât let her leave like this.
I pushed through the crowd, ignoring the murmurs and annoyed stares. My heart raced as I stopped in front of her, blocking her path.
âDonât go,â I said, my voice trembling. My chest was heaving, and it felt like I couldnât breathe.
She looked up at me, her expression guarded, her lips pressed into a thin line. âWhy are you here?â she asked softly, her voice calm but distant.
âBecause I love you,â I said, the words spilling out of me like a flood. âI canât let you leave like this, Y/N. Not without knowing the truth. Not without fighting for us.â
Her eyes quickly filled with tears, but she shook her head. âI remember everything now,â she said, her voice breaking. âI remember what happened, what I saw. It may not make much sense, but all I can think and feel right now is too much pain. I canât go through this again. Iâll lose myself.â
âI know,â I said, stepping closer. âI know I hurt you. I know you donât deserve this pain. But please, just hear me out. I need to explain. I need you to understand the truth.â My voice cracked, and tears streamed down my face. âI canât lose you, Y/N. Please.â
The people around us began to stare, whispering and pointing. Some had their phones out, recording the scene. Y/Nâs eyes darted around, and I saw her growing more uncomfortable.
Third Person POV
Y/N abruptly grabbed Dong Wookâs arm, her other hand clutching the handle of her suitcase. Without a word, she pulled him out of the boarding line and into a nearby private lounge where they were alone. The space was quieter, away from the chaos of the terminal, but the tension between them was suffocating, pressing down on the air around them.
She let go of his arm and turned to face him. Her eyes were bloodshot, her cheeks streaked with tears, but her expression was hardened, as if she was holding herself together by sheer will.
âGo home, Oppa,â she said, her voice trembling but firm. âIâm going back now.â
She turned on her heel, ready to leave, but Dong Wook reached out and grabbed her hand. Before she could react, he dropped to his knees in front of her.
âDonât go,â he whispered, his voice breaking.
She gasped, her eyes widening as she looked down at him. âOppa, get up,â she said, shaking her head as more tears welled in her eyes. âDonât do thisâŠâ
âPlease,â he said, his voice thick with emotion as his tears fell freely. âDonât leave me. Donât go. Let me explain everything. You have no idea how much I love you, how sorry I am. Please, just give me a chance.â
Her body trembled as she shook her head, the tears spilling over her cheeks. âI⊠I donât know if I can do this,â she whispered. âI donât know if I can handle this type of pain again.â
âJust listen to me,â he pleaded, his voice hoarse and desperate. âAfter I explain, if you still want to leave, Iâll let you go. Iâll book you another flight, I swear. Just⊠give me a few minutes.â
Her lips quivered as she struggled with her emotions. For a moment, she looked like she might say no, but then she exhaled shakily and reached down to pull him to his feet.
âDonât ever kneel like that again,â she said, her voice soft but edged with anger. âNot for me. Not for anyone.â
âFor you,â Dong Wook replied, his voice cracking as he looked into her tear-filled eyes. âI donât care. Iâll do anything for You.â
She sighed, wiping at her tears as her resolve wavered. âFine. A few minutes. Thatâs all.â
Dong Wook nodded, swallowing hard as he struggled to gather his thoughts. âThe-there was nothing between me and Suzy,â he began, his voice trembling. âI swear to you. Everything she did was calculatedâto hurt you, to hurt us. We didn't went on dates, I didnât kiss her, Y/N. She staged everything. Even your accidentâŠâ
Her eyes widened, her lips parting in shock. âWhatâŠ?â
âI didnât tell you because I thought I could fix it alone,â he continued, his voice breaking. âI didnât want to drag you into that mess. I thought I was protecting you, but I see now that I only hurt you more.â
Y/N took a step back, shaking her head as tears spilled down her cheeks. âYour silence broke me,â she whispered, her voice trembling. âIt made me paranoid, insecure, and so full of doubt. I promised myself Iâd never feel that way again because of a man.â
âIâm so sorry,â Dong Wook said, his voice raw as he stepped closer. âI thought I was doing the right thing, but I was wrong. I shouldâve trusted you, trusted us. Please, Y/N, give me a chance to make it right.â
Her hands clenched into fists at her sides as she tried to steady her breathing. âDo you know what itâs like to question your own worth, Oppa? To think youâre not enough?â she asked, her voice breaking. âBecause thatâs what this whole fiasco did to me, again. it was the emptiness, the uncertainty. And I canât go through that again.â
Dong Wookâs shoulders sagged, his face crumpling with grief. âI know I failed you,â he said. âIâll never forgive myself for what I put you through. But please, donât walk away without giving me a chance to make it right. I love you, Y/N. Iâve never stopped loving you.â
She wiped her tears but refused to look at him. âWeâve been through too much,â she said softly. âWe need time. We need to heal.â
She bit her lip, struggling to hold back her sobs. âYou have to let me go,â she said. âFor both of us. I thought that maybe⊠maybe fate was saying this isn't meant to be. Maybe this is an intervention from the universe. Whatever it is, right now, I need to leave.â
His heart shattered at her words, but he nodded slowly, tears streaming down his face. âTake all the time you need,â he said, his voice cracking. âIâll wait for you, Y/N. Even if it takes all eternity.â
She hesitated, then stepped closer, cupping his face gently with her hands. Her touch was warm, but her gaze was filled with sorrow. âLive your life,â she said, her voice breaking. âItâll be better if you forget about me.â
Dong Wook closed his eyes, leaning into her touch for what felt like the last time. âIâll be here,â he whispered. âWhenever youâre ready. Iâll always be here. So take your time.â
âI can never forget you,â he whispered, pressing his hand over hers as his tears fell. âYou changed my life, you became my everything.â
Y/N pulled her hands away and turned toward the door. She didnât look back as she walked out of the lounge, but her shoulders shook with silent sobs.
Dong Wook stood frozen for a moment, staring after her. Then, as the weight of her absence crashed down on him, he crumpled to the floor, his hands covering his face as his sobs echoed in the empty room.
And for the first time, he truly felt what it meant to lose her.
Y/N stirred in her hospital bed, the faint glow of the early dawn casting soft shadows across the room. Her head ached lightly, but the sharp pain she had felt before was gone. Slowly, her vision adjusted, and her eyes settled on a figure slumped in the chair beside her bed.
There he wasâ Lee Dong Wook, his beloved. His head rested awkwardly on the back of the chair, his body twisted as though heâd fallen asleep mid-watch. The faint rise and fall of his chest was steady, but his brows were furrowed even in sleep, as if he was carrying a weight too heavy to bear.
Her heart clenched painfully at the sight.
The memories flooded back all at once, vivid and clear. The joyful moments of their love, the way his gaze had always softened when he looked at her, his deep laughter that once felt like home. Then, the scandalâhis lips pressed to someone elseâs. Her heart breaking as she walked away. The flash of light, the van, the pain.
Tears welled up in her eyes as the ache in her chest grew unbearable.
Heâs probably here because he feels guilty.
She swallowed the lump in her throat as her mind replayed the scenes over and over again. The accident wasnât his fault, but the betrayal was. No matter how much she wanted to believe in his care, his tenderness, she couldnât shake the doubt.
He must feel obligated to take care of me. Thatâs why heâs here. Not because he loves me.
Her thoughts spiraled.
She had once been in a toxic relationship, a love that turned into begging for scraps of attention, a love where she pleaded for someone who didnât deserve her to stay. She had sworn she would never let herself fall into that trap again.
Dong Wook shifted slightly in his chair, his lips parting as though he was murmuring something in his sleep. Her heart twisted further.
I canât stay here, she thought. Not like this. Not when I know the pain will only deepen if I cling to a love that might not even be real anymore.
Steeling herself, she slowly sat up, careful not to make a sound. Her body felt weak, but she pushed through, determined. Her bare feet touched the cold floor, grounding her in the reality of what she was about to do.
She glanced at him one last time. He looked so peaceful, so vulnerable.
âGoodbye, my love,â she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Her chest tightened as the words left her lips, and she felt a hot tear slide down her cheek.
She moved toward the door, her steps slow and deliberate. Every fiber of her being wanted to turn back, to wake him and demand answers, to ask him why he had kissed Suzy, to ask if he still loved her the way she loved him.
But her trauma from the past won't let her. She's been in the same situation before. Where she asked and just got lied to. She don't want it to happen again. She don't want to lose herself again.
She reached for the doorknob, her hand trembling. Just as she turned it, she paused, looking over her shoulder at him one last time.
He hadnât stirred.
Taking a deep breath, she opened the door and stepped into the quiet hallway, the air feeling colder than it should have. The hospital was still dark, the world outside still asleep. She walked quickly, determined not to lose her resolve.
Itâs been two days. Two endless, torturous days since Y/N disappeared. The fear gnaws at me, relentless, consuming every waking moment. I havenât slept. I canât. How can I, when I donât know where she is. Is she okay? Has she eaten? Has she slept? Is she hurting? I need answers, and yet... no one is answering.
Lee Dong Wook's POV
Iâve been driving myself mad. My thoughts race a mile a minute, bouncing between the worst-case scenarios. The fear that something has happened to her, or worseâthat sheâs gone because of me. That maybe, just maybe, Iâve pushed her too far, and now sheâs running from everything weâve been through.
From me. I donât even care about my own exhaustion. I donât care that I look like hellâhaggard, stubbled, disheveled. I havenât shaved, havenât stopped looking. I just want to find her.
âDong Wook hyung,â Chang Hee says gently, his voice breaking through my spiral. Heâs been trying to get me to rest and eat, but itâs useless. How could I? How could I when she left me.. again.
âIâm fine,â I snap, though the words are hollow. I can barely look him in the eye. His concern is suffocating, and I donât know how to tell him that nothing will be right again until Y/N is back. I rub a hand over my face, feeling the stubble scratch against my palm.
âYouâre not fine,â Chang Hee insists. âYou havenât slept at all. You haven't eaten properly. You canât keep doing this to yourself.â
âIâm fine,â I repeat, but even to my own ears, it sounds like a lie. I know itâs a lie. âI just... I need to find her. Please.â
Gong Yoo steps in, his presence quiet but steady. He doesnât say much, just sits across from me with a knowing look. Heâs seen me like this before, but itâs never been this bad. Not like this.
âIâve been calling her friends,â I say, my voice raw. âOver and over again. No one answers. Itâs like theyâve all shut me out, but I need to know if sheâs safe. Is she eating? Is she sleeping? I just want to know... is she angry at me?â
The thought hits me harder than I expect. What if she is angry at me? What if all of this is my fault, and Iâve pushed her too far? What if she never wants to see me again?
Day 3
The phone rings again in my hand, I dial the number with a desperate urgency. The ringing stretches on. Please, someone, pick up.
The moment the call connects, Iâm almost out of breath. âSunny,â I say, trying to keep the tremor out of my voice. âWhere is she? Please, you have to tell me. Where is Y/N?â
I can hear Sunnyâs sigh on the other end of the line. Thereâs a pause, and I know sheâs thinkingâthinking of how to respond, how to protect Y/N from this. How to protect us from the pain she knows will follow.
âDong Wook,â Sunny says, her voice soft but firm. âI think You need to let her go.â
My heart skips a beat, and for a moment, I canât breathe. âWhat do you mean? What are you talking about?â I grip the phone tighter, my knuckles turning white. âPlease, Sunny. I just need to see if sheâs safe. Thatâs all. Just tell me where she is.â
âNo, You don't understandâ Sunny says, her voice breaking. âSheâs hurting. You need to give her space.â
I can feel the words choking me, the weight of her statement sinking deep into my chest. I donât want to believe it, but part of me knows itâs true. Iâve hurt her. Iâve been selfish. I wasnât there when she needed me the most. And now... now I might be losing her forever.
âShe left because,â Sunny continues, âmaybe itâs because she feels like she has to. To protect herself from the pain, Dong Wook Oppa. We've seen her broken before, she was wrecked. You also know how it feels. Maybe you just have to accept..â
I canât breathe. âNo,â I whisper. âNo, I wonât. I canât let her go. Not like this. I want to explain to her, please..â
But Sunnyâs words are harsh, cutting. âMaybe you both need time.. or maybe it isn't meant to be..â
The line goes quiet for a moment, and I feel a sickening weight settle in my gut. I didnât know I could hurt this badly. Itâs like Iâm dying a little bit with each passing second.
âNo. Please, Sunny,â I beg again, my voice cracking. âPlease. Where is she? Tell me, and Iâll do whatever it takes. I can't let her go like this. I know, I will also lose myself.â
Thereâs another pause, a longer one this time. And then, Sunny speaks again, but her voice is quieter, more hesitant.
âFine,â she says, as if resigning to something she doesnât want to admit. âSheâs at Incheon Airport. Flight tonight. At 8 PM.â
The words hit me like a punch to the gut. Airport? Is she leaving? My mind spins. What does this mean?
âShe's leaving?â I ask, barely able to keep my voice steady.
âBe there,â Sunny says, her voice soft but urgent. âIf you want to see her, be there. Or let her go forever. This might be your last chance.â
The line goes silent, and before I can respond, I hear the call end with a click.
Iâm left standing there, frozen in disbelief, the weight of her words sinking in.
Sheâs leaving. Sheâs leaving me.
I glance at the clock. 6:35 PM. The drive will take an hour and a half, maybe more, depending on traffic. I donât care. I donât care about anything but getting to her.
I grab my jacket and run for the door, my heart pounding in my chest. I donât even bother to look for the car keysâI know where they are, and I donât have time to waste.
Iâm at the car in seconds, throwing myself into the driverâs seat, my hands shaking as I start the engine. I hit the gas, pushing the car to almost 110 km/h. Nothing else matters now. I just need to get to her. I canât lose her. Not like this.
The road blurs past me as my thoughts race. I canât let her leave. I canât.
The drive home was peaceful, a rare kind of quiet that I had grown to cherish in the midst of my chaotic life. My meetings at the agency had gone smoothlyâno drama, no unexpected fallout from Suzy.
Everything was finally starting to feel... normal. Even the call I made about her case, ensuring that it stayed in the hands of the authorities, gave me a sense of relief. She was where she belonged, behind bars, and I had done everything I could to make sure it stayed that way.
I couldnât help but smile to myself. Iâd made a quick stop by the bakery to pick up her favorite donutsâ chocolate glaze with marshmallows. It was such a small gesture, but it made me happy to imagine her face lighting up when she saw them. She always acted surprised, as if I hadnât already spoiled her with these little surprises.
âY/N-ah~â I called sweetly as I entered the flat, the box of donuts in one hand, my keys in the other.
But the silence that greeted me was unsettling.
There was no response.
My brow furrowed as I placed the donuts on the counter. I expected to hear her voice or the sound of her humming, maybe even her phone buzzing from the couch. But the flat was eerily still.
âY/N?â I called again, louder this time.
I checked the bedroom. Empty. No sign of her anywhere.
A strange, growing sense of worry twisted in my stomach.
I went to the kitchen, and thatâs when I saw it.
The brunch. The waffles, eggs Benedict, and fruit shakeâall still sitting untouched, as if frozen in time. The sight of it made my heart race. She was supposed to be here, eating this... something was wrong.
I glanced toward the living room, panic rising in my chest.
Thatâs when I saw her.
Y/N lay crumpled on the floor, her long hair spread out around her like a dark halo, her body unnaturally still. My breath hitched in my throat, and I froze, unable to process what I was seeing. A streak of blood ran from her nose, staining the fabric of her white dress.
For a moment, the world seemed to stop. My heart pounded in my chest, memories of the accident flooding back, crashing over me like a wave. The same sense of helplessness, of terror...
âNo... no, no, no!â I choked out, my voice breaking. I rushed to her side, my hands trembling as I gently cupped her face, feeling the coldness of her skin. âY/N! Wake up, please!â
But there was no response. She looked... lifeless. Her eyelids were closed, her breath shallow.
Panic surged through me, and I pulled her into my arms, my chest tightening as I lifted her gently. Bloodâher bloodâstained my shirt.
âIâm not losing you,â I whispered, my voice cracking, my emotions spiraling. I could feel the tears welling up, but I didnât let them fall. Not yet. âPlease... stay with me. Donât leave me.â
I could barely think straight as I hurriedly carried her out to the car. The drive to the hospital was a blur. The only thing that mattered was getting her the help she needed. My hands gripped the steering wheel so tightly that my knuckles turned white. Every second felt like an eternity.
âHold on, Y/Nâ I pleaded, my voice shaking. âJust hold on. Please.â
The Hospital
The moment I arrived at the hospital, doctors rushed to take her from my arms. I stood frozen in the hallway, watching them wheel her away, my legs refusing to move. My mind raced with questions and fears.
What had happened? She had been fine when I left this morning. How had things gone so wrong so quickly?
A nurse approached me gently, her voice soft but firm. âMr. Lee, the doctors are running a CT scan to check for any brain activity or any complications from her previous injury. Weâll update you as soon as we know more.â
I nodded, my body tense. My fists clenched at my sides, every part of me screaming for answers.
Minutes felt like hours. My heart wouldnât stop pounding. The steady beeping of the machines in the hallway seemed to mock me, each beep reminding me of how helpless I was.
Finally, the doctor appeared. He was calm, but his eyes held a seriousness that made my stomach churn.
âMr. Lee,â the doctor began, his voice steady, âweâve completed the scan. The good news is thereâs no significant damage to her brain. No signs of swelling anymore nor any complications. In fact, her brain activity appears normal.â
I breathed a sigh of relief, but it was short-lived.
âSo... what does that mean?â My voice was hoarse, the fear still thick in my throat.
The doctor looked at me with a gentle smile, though I could see the concern in his eyes. âIt means sheâs likely to regain her memory when she wakes up. However, I must warn youârecovering memories from a traumatic event like this can be overwhelming. She may not only recall the good things, but also the pain.â
My heart sank. I could already feel itâmy worst fear creeping into my chest. The thought of Y/N remembering everythingâthe accident, the scandal, the heartbreakâit terrified me.
âWill she... be okay?â I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
The doctor placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. âPhysically, sheâs stable. Emotionally... it will depend on the support she receives. Just be there for her, Mr. Lee.â
I nodded, my throat tight, and muttered a quiet, âThank you.â
Y/N was moved to a private room. The only sound in the sterile, dimly lit room was the rhythmic beeping of the machines monitoring her.
I sat beside her, holding her hand, feeling the coldness of her skin. My heart ached with a deep, gnawing emptiness.
âY/N,â I whispered, my voice cracking as I spoke her name. âYouâre everything to me. I donât care if you remember me or not. I just need you to be okay.â
Tears slipped down my cheeks as I leaned forward, resting my forehead against the edge of her bed.
âIâm so sorry,â I whispered. âFor everything. For not protecting you, for not being there when you needed me. Iâll make it right, I promise. Iâll wait as long as it takes for you to come back to me.â
I didnât know how long I sat there, the hours slipping by unnoticed, until exhaustion finally overcame me. I laid my head down on the bed beside her, my hand still holding hers, and drifted into a restless sleep.
I woke up disoriented and groggy. The room was silent, and for a moment, I thought everything had been a bad dream.
But when I looked up, Y/N's bed was empty.
Panic shot through me like a lightning bolt, and I bolted upright.
âY/N?â My voice cracked as I scrambled to my feet, my eyes frantically scanning the room.
I checked the bathroomâempty. The hallwayâempty.
âExcuse me!â I shouted, rushing into the hallway and calling out to a nurse. âThe patient in Room 314â Kwon Y/N, where is she?â
The nurse furrowed her brow and checked her clipboard. âShe hasnât been discharged. She should still be in her room.â
My chest tightened as the words sank in. I turned quickly, rushing back toward her room.
My breath caught in my throat, and a cold dread spread through my veins.
Where had she gone? Why would she leave? Was she okay?
The note trembled in my hand as I whispered, âY/N... where are you?â
I had no answers. Just a feeling of impending dread.
(To be continued)
You may want to read Y/N's Backstory first before going to the next chapter!
The kettle hummed in the quiet flat, steam rising from its spout, and I absentmindedly stirred my tea as I watched Dong Wook move about the kitchen. There was a sense of tranquility between us that I hadnât experienced in a long time, and yet, something about it felt surreal.
I still couldnât shake the feeling that I didnât belong here, even though it was becoming more and more clear that this placeâthis lifeâhad something I desperately needed.
âDo you want anything else?â Dong Wookâs voice cut through my thoughts, soft but steady. He looked over his shoulder with a teasing glint in his eyes.
I shook my head, smiling. âJust the tea, thank you.â
âYou sure? Youâre missing out on the coffee.â He waggled his eyebrows at me playfully.
âTeaâs comforting,â I answered, my smile widening as I took a sip. There was something about the way he looked at me, that small, fond expression, that made me feel... seen.
He set down his coffee, walking over to the couch where I had positioned myself. âAlright, alright. But just know Iâm disappointed.â
I laughed softly, tilting my head toward him. âIâll survive.â
He shook his head, chuckling, and sat down beside me, leaving just enough space between us. It was a strange feelingâcomfortably close yet distanced in ways that I still couldnât fully grasp. 'Like how we kissed last night' Insane.
We spent the next half hour in silence, enjoying our drinks. The soft hum of the flat and the sound of Dong Wook occasionally laughing at something on his phone made the atmosphere feel warm.
Then, out of nowhere, he suddenly showed me a video on his phoneâof a dog trying to fit into a hole and it's fat butt got stuck on the other side. The dogâs frantic attempt to squeeze in was both pathetic and hilarious.
âLook at this. You need to appreciate how hard this dog is working,â Dong Wook grinned, his eyes sparkling.
I couldnât help but laugh out loud, clutching my sides as the dogâs paw awkwardly flailed about. âIâve seen a lot of weird things, but this... this takes the cake.â
Dong Wook leaned in, lowering his voice with a mock serious expression. âItâs the most important thing Iâve seen all day. You should appreciate the effort.â
I smirked. âYouâre telling me I should be impressed by a dog struggling to fit in a hole?â
âAbsolutely,â he replied, grinning from ear to ear. âThis is peak comedy.â
As I wiped away the tears from laughing so hard, Dong Wook shifted on the couch, sitting just a little closer to me. âItâs good to see you laugh,â he murmured, almost to himself.
I froze for a moment, my hand resting awkwardly on the arm of the couch. Something about his words made my heart flutterâsomething I couldnât quite place. The vulnerability in his voice, the tenderness in his gaze... it made everything feel even more confusing.
âYouâve gone quiet,â I said, trying to break the sudden tension. âWhatâs going on in that head of yours?â
He shrugged, his eyes flicking over to me. âNot much, just... thinking about how easy it is to talk to you.â
I smiled, looking down at my tea. âWell, I guess itâs easier when Iâm not being a grump.â
Dong Wook laughed, nudging my shoulder lightly. âI think youâve been perfect just the way you are.â
I blinked, unsure of how to respond. âI donât even remember most of this,â I murmured, lowering my voice. âIt all feels so familiar, yet... itâs like Iâm looking at it through someone elseâs eyes.â
His smile faltered, just for a moment, before he leaned back and rubbed his hand over his neck. âI know. I just wish you remembered everything.â
I watched him closely. He was trying so hard to hide the sadness in his eyes, but it was thereâlingering like a shadow, reminding me of how much I still didnât understand.
âIâm trying, Dong Wook,â I said softly. âI really am.â
I scribbled down what I could rememberâsimple things, like the way the kitchen smelled when Dong Wook made breakfast, or how his laugh always seemed to make the whole room feel warmer.
But then there were the flashesâthe fragmented memories that hit me when I least expected them. A face, a voice. Someone telling me they loved me, but their face was a blur.
I couldnât make sense of it, but I kept writing, hoping that if I wrote it all down, it would help me piece the puzzle together.
Third Person POV
Dong Wook had left for a meeting at the agency. Heâd made sure to check in with Y/N before leaving, his usual concern lingering in his voice.
âAre you sure youâll be okay?â he asked one last time, giving her a reassuring smile.
âIâll be fine,â Y/N said, her voice bright and casual. âIâm going to make brunch. Itâll be fun.â
âOkay, I trust you,â he said, ruffling her hair affectionately before leaving the flat.
Y/N watched him go, and when the door clicked shut, the flat felt much larger.
Y/N wandered into the kitchen, determined to distract herself. She decided to make brunchâwaffles, eggs benedict, and a fruit shake. It was ambitious, but it felt like something she might have done before.
She worked methodically, the familiar sounds of cooking filling the space around her. As she flipped a waffle, the aroma hit herârich, warm, and somehow, it felt... right.
Then, it happened.
As she placed the eggs Benedict on the plate and poured herself the shake, a flash of memory slammed into her.
It was her, sitting at this very table, laughing with someone. A manâhis face was still blurry, but she could hear him. âSo you can cook well huh?â heâd asked, his voice full of teasing affection.
Theyâd both laughed, and she remembered feeling warm, safe in his company.
Y/N stumbled slightly, clutching the counter for support as the pain intensified. More memories surged forward, quick and sharp, leaving her dizzy.
The flash was so intense it almost knocked her off her feet.
There she was again, sitting at the table with the same man. They were eating the exact same food. His laughter filled the air, and everything felt so... right.
But thenâmore.
Her head exploded with a new wave of memories: walking along a beach, holding his hand, feeling the cool breeze on her skin. His lips, warm and soft, pressing against hers. A kiss so tender, yet filled with an unspoken promise. Dong Wook.
And then, suddenly, it all became overwhelming. Her head was pounding, the pressure behind her eyes unbearable.
Don't leave me.
She could hear him, his voice desperate, but the words made no sense in the chaos of her thoughts.
Then came the most haunting memoryâflashes of Suzy, the articles, the accident, and the blinding light. The pain shot through her skull like a thunderclap.
Y/N gripped her head, stumbling toward the living room, but the pain was too much. She collapsed, her body slamming into the floor.
She touched her nose, only to find blood staining her fingers.
