Chapter 36: A Growing Bond
As Yun-ho and his friends continued their adventures in the Sapphire Shores, Nova couldn't help but feel a growing sense of admiration for Yun-ho. She had always been drawn to his strength and courage, but now she saw a different side of him.
Yun-ho was not only a powerful warrior but also a kind and compassionate person. He was always there to help his friends, no matter the danger.
One evening, as they were sitting by the beach, watching the sunset, Nova decided to test the waters.
"Yun-ho," she began, her voice trembling slightly. "What do you think of me?"
Yun-ho turned to face her, his heart pounding. He had been hoping for this moment.
"You're an amazing friend," he said, trying to keep his voice steady. "You're intelligent, resourceful, and incredibly brave."
Nova nodded, but she wasn't satisfied with his answer. "Just a friend?" she asked.
Yun-ho hesitated. He knew that Nova was hoping for more. But he couldn't tell her the truth. He couldn't reveal that he was from a different world, that he was trapped in Eternity Online.
"We're colleagues," Yun-ho said finally. "We're working together to save the world."
Nova's face fell. She had hoped for more.
"Is that all we are?" she asked.
Yun-ho hesitated again. He wanted to tell her the truth, but he knew that it would only make things worse.
"For now, we're colleagues," he said. "But maybe someday, we'll be more."
Nova nodded, her heart heavy. She knew that Yun-ho was hiding something from her, but she also knew that he was trying to protect her.
As they sat there, watching the sunset, Nova couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. She knew that their relationship was complicated, and she wasn't sure where it was going.
But she also knew that she loved Yun-ho, no matter what. And she was determined to be there for him, no matter what challenges they faced.