Chapter 8: Confronting Reality

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After the cafe meeting, Maria and Jeongin found themselves navigating uncharted waters. The experience of meeting in person had added a new layer of complexity to their relationship. On one hand, there was joy and satisfaction from finally sharing the same space, from talking eye to eye. On the other, the reality of their unique circumstances began to impose itself more forcefully than ever.

Maria struggled with the dichotomy of her emotions. The joy of meeting Jeongin in person was often overshadowed by anxiety about the consequences of their encounter. Rumors circulating online about Jeongin and a mysterious fan began to gain more traction, fueled by the incessant curiosity and, at times, malice of netizens.

Jeongin, aware of the whirlwind beginning to form around them, felt torn between his desire to protect Maria's privacy and the need to keep his own life under control. In one of their conversations, he expressed his concern: "Maria, I hate that you have to face any part of this ugly side that comes with what I do. I want you to know I'll do what I can to keep you out of it."

Maria, in turn, found herself in a moral dilemma. She wanted to support Jeongin, but also feared becoming a burden to him, a distraction that could potentially harm his career. "I never wanted our friendship to bring you trouble," she confessed, her heart heavy. "Maybe it would be better if..."

Jeongin cut her off before she could finish the sentence. "No," he said firmly. "We're not going to let fear dictate what this means for us. But we also need to be realistic about what we can do next."

That's when the conversation turned to the future. They discussed ways to protect their privacy and keep their connection away from the public eye. Jeongin suggested limiting their online interactions and finding more discreet ways of communicating.

However, the situation became even more complicated when a gossip site published a blurred photo of a man and a woman in a cafe, insinuating that the man could be Jeongin. Although the faces were indistinguishable, and the story was based on conjecture, it was enough to fan the flames of online speculation.

Maria felt the weight of the world on her shoulders. The idea of being responsible for any negativity directed at Jeongin was overwhelming. In a moment of vulnerability, she sent Jeongin a message: "Maybe it would be better if we distanced ourselves. I don't want to be the reason for any pain in your life."

Jeongin replied with a determination that surprised Maria. "Finding you was one of the few genuine moments I've had in a long time. We'll find a way together. This isn't about the world; it's about us. And I'm not ready to give up on that."

FOR NOW, THAT'S ALL

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FOR NOW, THAT'S ALL...

Exploring new creative territories is always a brave step, and I am truly touched to have the opportunity to share a bit of my journey with you. Writing has been a hobby for me, a way to spread my imagination's wings and, perhaps, touch someone's heart along the way. I still consider myself a learner in this vast universe of writing, aware that I have much to discover and improve.

I must confess, I feel a mix of excitement and nervousness at the thought of continuing. The truth is, I am only motivated to move forward if, in some way, this resonates with you. Your opinion is incredibly valuable to me, whether it be as a sign of encouragement or constructive guidance for my growth.

Therefore, I humbly ask you to share your impressions. If you think there's something special in what I write, and you want to read more, I would be honored to continue this journey. But, if you feel it's not the time, I will understand with gratitude and take it as an important lesson in my path of learning.

Thank you so much for giving me the chance to share a piece of my world with you. I hope, from the bottom of my heart, that it has brought some value, however small, to your life. I am open to hearing what you have to say, with all humility and an open mind to learn from every word.

Should I continue writing?

Follow me on my social media if so!

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