The school festival was in full swing, and Ji-eun had never seen the campus so alive. Twinkling fairy lights adorned every corner, and the excitement of students and visitors filled the air. Each class had set up booths, showcasing food, games, and performances. Ji-eun's class booth, themed "A Starry Night," was an instant hit, decorated with a celestial ambiance of glowing lanterns and stars.
Ji-hoon, dressed sharply in a tailored suit as the festival host, was captivating the crowd with his charisma. Ji-eun couldn't help but glance at him now and then. Every time their eyes met, Ji-hoon would flash her a warm smile, making her heart race.
Ji-eun busied herself managing her booth, where students lined up for a photo station featuring a backdrop of constellations. Her friends Mia and Hyun-joo were helping her, though Mia was more focused on dragging Ji-eun to other parts of the festival.
"You've been stuck here all day!" Mia said, tugging on Ji-eun's arm. "Let's explore! The karaoke corner is packed, and I'm pretty sure you could out-sing anyone there."
Ji-eun laughed but shook her head. "I'll check it out later. Someone has to stay here."
Before Mia could argue further, a sudden wave of excitement rippled through the crowd. Ji-eun turned to see what the commotion was about.
"No way," Hyun-joo whispered. "Is that BTS?"
Ji-eun's jaw dropped as she saw the globally famous band walking toward the main stage. She blinked in disbelief. "They're really here?"
Mia grinned. "It's true! Ji-hoon invited them. He's full of surprises, isn't he?"
Ji-eun's heart swelled with awe and gratitude. She couldn't believe Ji-hoon had gone to such lengths to make the festival special.
When BTS took the stage, the crowd erupted into cheers. Ji-eun stood in the middle of it all, mesmerized as they performed some of her favorite songs. She couldn't help but sing along, her voice blending with the voices around her. The moment felt surreal, like a dream come true.
After the performance, Ji-eun was approached by Ji-hoon. He looked more nervous than usual, his hands tucked into his pockets.
"Did you enjoy the performance?" he asked, his voice soft but steady.
Ji-eun nodded, still slightly dazed. "It was incredible. Thank you for making it happen."
Ji-hoon smiled, his eyes reflecting the warm glow of the lights around them. "I wanted to do something unforgettable—for you."
Ji-eun's breath hitched as Ji-hoon gestured for her to follow him. He led her to a quieter corner of the school grounds, away from the bustling festival. The area was illuminated by fairy lights strung across the trees, creating an almost magical atmosphere.
"Ji-eun," Ji-hoon began, turning to face her. "There's something I've wanted to say for a long time."
Ji-eun's pulse quickened. "What is it?"
Ji-hoon hesitated for a moment before speaking. "You've changed my life in ways I never expected. Being around you makes me want to be better. You've shown me what it means to be real, to be true to yourself. And... I like you, Ji-eun. More than just a friend."
Ji-eun felt her heart swell with emotion. She looked up at him, her eyes shimmering. "I like you too, Ji-hoon," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
A relieved smile spread across Ji-hoon's face, and he reached out to hold her hand. The connection between them felt electric, like a bond that had been waiting to form all along.
As the night continued, they returned to the festival together, hand in hand. The grand fireworks display marked the end of the event, vibrant colors painting the night sky. Ji-eun leaned against Ji-hoon, feeling a warmth she hadn't known before.
For the first time, Ji-eun didn't feel the need to hide behind makeup or a façade. With Ji-hoon by her side, she knew she could be her true self, and that was enough.