Hearts In Harmony [PAUSED]
prologue + i. the beginning
Nayeon looked adorable. Her soft smile and reserved demeanor caught Hyukgyu's attention, and he felt drawn to her like a magnet.
Hyukgyu
Maybe I'll try to get to know her better in this episode..
Hyukgyu looked up from his thoughts, interrupted by the sound of footsteps entering the room.
The participants quickly stood up, eagerly ready to greet the new participant.
He felt nervous but excited as he saw the handsome, tall man step through the door.
His charms and good looks were undeniable, and Hyukgyu couldn't help but smile back as the group welcomed him with open arms.
Hyukgyu's smile immediately faded as he recognized the person in front of him.
His heart thumped faster, like a drumbeat in his chest.
The moment Hyukgyu laid his eyes on the new participant, sharp and piercing like a blade, his heart raced faster than the speed of light.
The male participant's jet-black hair, soft and shiny like the moon, cascaded down his face, complementing his razor-sharp jaw.
An intimidating aura surrounded him, yet it only served to deepen Hyukgyu's affection for him.
His deep and alluring eyes, like the ocean depths filled with secrets, beckoned Hyukgyu to stare into them forever.
But just as quickly as Hyukgyu was transfixed, the new male participant already introduced himself to the other participants.
His voice, Silky and enchanting, filled Hyukgyu's ears with music, and his heart with joy.
Jaehoon
Hello my name's Kang Jaehoon
Jaehoon
25 years old from Gangwon
The new male participant smiles and shakes the hand of each participants
Suddenly, Hyukgyu's world had been turned upside down.
His mind was racing, trying to make sense of the situation.
His body was locked in place, unable to move, feeling paralyzed with panic.
The questions gnawing at his brain were like a hunger that seemed insatiable.
Hyukgyu
"Why was he here?"
Hyukgyu
"Could it be just a coincidence, or something more?"
Hyukgyu tried to push the thoughts away, but they lingered like a bad dream that refused to leave him alone.
Hyukgyu
"I must be overreacting"
Hyukgyu
"But how can I not be?"
Hyukgyu
"This is the man who I had a crush on back in high school!"
It seemed as if Jaehoon had appeared out of nowhere.
In an instant, he was standing in front of Hyukgyu, introducing himself.
His voice was almost hypnotic, smooth and soothing like a melody.
It was almost as if time had stopped for a moment, and it was just the two of them.
Jaehoon took Hyukgyu's hand in a solid, heartfelt shake, and he could feel his skin against his.
It was almost as if time had stopped for a moment, and it was just the two of them.
It was like confessing to Jaehoon again for the first time.
This was the first time he ever had a physical touch with him since back then, and Hyukgyu felt a rush of adrenaline and panic.
Hyukgyu knew he had to pull himself together before he made a complete fool of himself on camera.
But just as Hyukgyu was about to compose himself, Jaehoon spoke.
He said, his voice ringing out like a bell.
Hyukgyu
"He remembers me?"
Hyukgyu thought, feeling a rush of emotions.
Hyukgyu
"Please don't mention anything"
Hyukgyu pleaded with himself.
Jaehoon's grip on Hyukgyu's hand was firm but gentle, and Hyukgyu could feel the warmth emanating from his fingers.
Hyukgyu felt his heart skip a beat at the sound of his voice.
The familiarity and warmth in it triggered something inside him, and he knew that the feelings he had for him back in high school were still there, still as strong as ever.
As Jaehoon passed by him to find a seat, the thoughts in Hyukgyu's head were a cacophony of emotions and memories, all centered around him.
He couldn't help but wonder what he thought of him now, and if he had any idea how much Hyukgyu liked him back then.
Hyukgyu
"Jaehoon.... why are you here...?"
The woman said those words in a calm, matter-of-fact tone, sipping on her tea.
Hyukgyu was caught off guard and felt a pang of hurt.
He had never expected Yena to end their relationship so abruptly.
Yena said she was sorry, but Hyukgyu couldn't help but feel a sinking feeling in his heart.
He was confused and hurt, but he tried to keep his emotions in check.
That's when it hit Hyukgyu: she had only dated him because of his looks.
He felt betrayed and flustered, feeling like he had been used.
Hyukgyu
"But you accepted to date me!"
Hyukgyu lowered his head in defeat and let out a deep sigh.
Yena nodded and offered to shake hands.
Hyukgyu didn't want to make her feel guilty or uncomfortable, so he forced a smile and accepted her hand.
He said, his voice shaky.
Yena
Let's be friends then.
Hyukgyu nodded, trying to show a smile
Hyukgyu
"You're already hurting me"
Hyukgyu
"Of course I'll be upset!"
Hyukgyu smiled weakly and the two parted ways.
Looking back on his past relationships, he couldn't help but think that he had been too eager to find love and that he had jumped into relationships without really knowing the person.
He had even dated men, even though he was bisexual, to see if he could find a true partner.
But unfortunately, it always seemed to end in miscommunication and platonic relationships.
His friends had called him a hopeless romantic, but he knew that couldn't be true.
He had to keep pushing forward and trust that one day, he would find the one who would make his life worthwhile.
But for now, he had to remain positive and move on.
He couldn't let the past hold him back or destroy his hope for the future.
He had to hold on to the belief that everyone deserved to find happiness, and he was ready to put in the hard work to find his own.
After parting ways with Yena, Hyukgyu was left with a feeling of emptiness.
The two had been together for several months, and he had really thought this relationship would last.
But now, he was back to square one.
Hyukgyu called up his best friend, Kwanghee, and asked him to meet for coffee.
When they met, Kwanghee could tell that something was off with Hyukgyu.
Kwanghee
You sounded kinda upset on the phone.
Hyukgyu
Oh, you know, just life.
Hyukgyu says as he slouched sitting on the chair
Kwanghee sighs noticing his bestfriend's behavior
Kwanghee
What happened this time?
Kwanghee
You get broken up with again?
Hyukgyu lazily reached his coffee cup on the table amd sipped on it
Hyukgyu
Yena just wasn't feeling it.
Not knowing how to comfort, Kwanghee awkwardly find words to say
Kwanghee
But hey, at least you're hot
Kwanghee
You'll find someone in no time.
Hyukgyu
Yeah, I guess you're right.
Hyukgyu
It's just hard, you know?
Hyukgyu
I want to find someone who really loves me for me, not just for my looks.
Kwanghee
I totally get it.
Kwanghee
It's tough out there.
Kwanghee
But you gotta keep your head up and keep trying.
Kwanghee
You're gonna find your person eventually.
Hyukgyu
It means a lot to have a friend like you.
Kwanghee
I'm here for you.
As they finished their coffee and said their goodbyes and went home, Hyukgyu felt a little better.
He knew he had to keep pushing forward and trust that he would find the right person, even if it meant going through more breakups and heartache along the way.
But he was determined to make it work, no matter what, because he deserved to find true love, like everyone else.
With a renewed sense of determination, Hyukgyu went back to the drawing board and started thinking about what he wanted in a partner.
He knew he wasn't interested in casual flings or short-term relationships anymore.
He wanted to find someone who would be willing to settle down with him and build a life together.
Hyukgyu realized that in order to find the right person, he had to start making changes in his life.
He had to be honest with himself about what he truly valued in a partner and what he was willing to compromise on.
He knew that if he remained passive and just hoped for the best, he would never find the relationship he desired.
Despite his newfound sense of conviction, Hyukgyu knew that the journey to true love would be rough and filled with unexpected twists and turns.
He knew that breakups and rejection would still be a part of his journey.
But now, he was prepared to face those challenges head-on and make the necessary changes in his life to find the happiness he deserved.
Hyukgyu realized that in order to find the right person, he needed to prioritize certain values and attributes that were important to him in a partner.
He set out to determine what those were, and he wrote them down in a list.
Hyukgyu
1. Supportive: I want a partner who would be here for me through good times and bad, cheering me on and supporting me in my endeavors.
Hyukgyu
2. Honest and trustworthy: I want someone who would always tell me the truth, no matter what. I value integrity and honesty in a partner above all else.
Hyukgyu
3. Kind-hearted: I want someone who was kind and compassionate to others, especially those who were less fortunate.
Hyukgyu
4. Confident: I want someone who was self-assured and confident in themselves, not overly self-deprecating or attention-seeking. I value a partner who was comfortable in their own skin and didn't need constant validation from others.
Hyukgyu
5. Independent: I want someone who could stand on their own two feet and who didn't rely on me for everything. I value a partner who was self-sufficient and capable of making their own decisions.
Hyukgyu
6. Open-minded: I want someone willing to try new things and who was open to different perspectives and ideas. I value a partner who was flexible and willing to explore different possibilities and experiences.
Hyukgyu looks at the advertisement for the dating reality show on his laptop and says to himself
Hyukgyu
Huh, I wonder if this is worth a shot?
Hyukgyu
Maybe I'll find someone who's truly into me on this show.
Hyukgyu clicks on the application link and starts filling out the form.
Hyukgyu
Hmm, let's see... Name... age... location...
Hyukgyu
Oh hey, this one's a write-in question: "What do you value in a romantic partner?"
Hyukgyu
Well, let's see...
Hyukgyu
I want someone who's supportive, honest, and confident person.
Hyukgyu
But I also want someone who's kind-hearted and independent.
Hyukgyu
And I definitely want someone who's open-minded and not too shy.
Hyukgyu
And of course, they have to be physically attractive to me.
Hyukgyu still filling out the application
Hyukgyu
Ok, let's finish this up and see what happens!
Hyukgyu clicks submit and waits in anticipation for a reply from the show's producers.
He can't deny that he's a little nervous about putting himself out therelike this, but he's willing to do whatever it takes to find the love he's been searching for.
As Hyukgyu continued to fill out the application, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness.
He had never done anything quite like this before, but he was willing to put himself out there in pursuit of love.
He finished the application and submitted it and went to his lay down on his bed.
Hyukgyu
"I wonder if this is a mistake?"
Hyukgyu
"Am I really ready for something like this?"
Hyukgyu
"What if I get rejected?"
Hyukgyu
"What if I meet someone, and we hit it off, only for things to fall apart?"
Thoughts filled on Hyukgyu's mind but eventually his mind started to drift into dreamland.
After what felt like an eternity, Hyukgyu received a message from the show's producers.
He eagerly clicked on the email, his heart racing as he read the first few lines.
Hyukgyu reading the email
Hyukgyu
"Congratulations, you've been selected to be on of the participants in our new dating reality show!"
Hyukgyu
"We think you have the potential to be a great fit for our program. Please reply to this email with your availability for a Zoom interview."
Hyukgyu
Wow, I can't believe I've been selected!
Hyukgyu
I just have to remember to be confident and true to myself during the interview, and I think I'll be headed on the path to finding my forever person in no time!
Hyukgyu says with a mix of emotions crossing his face
Hyukgyu received a reply from the producers of the dating reality show a few days later.
He had spent the last few days preparing for his virtual interview, practicing his answers to common questions and ensuring that he was as ready as he could be.
As he sat in front of his laptop, he couldn't help but feel a wave of nerves washes over him.
Hyukgyu
"This is the moment that could change everything."
Hyukgyu
"I just have to be myself and let the rest take care of itself."
The producers joined the call and began by introducing themselves and explaining the format of the show.
Hyukgyu listened intently, taking in every word and making sure he understood the expectations of the show.
Hyukgyu
"Ok, I've got this."
Hyukgyu
"I just need to be confident and let my personality shine through."
Hyukgyu
"I've worked so hard to get to this point, and I can't let this opportunity slip through my fingers."
And then so the virtual interview began.
PD-NIM
Hi, welcome to our dating reality show! Hearts In Harmony!
PD-NIM
We're excited to have you here.
PD-NIM
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you're looking for in a relationship.
Hyukgyu
Thank you for having me.
Hyukgyu
I'm Lee Hyukgyu, a 25-year-old streamer.
Hyukgyu
As far as what I'm looking for in a relationship, I value someone who is supportive, honest, and confident.
PD-NIM
That's a great start.
PD-NIM
Tell us more about what you offer in a relationship.
Hyukgyu
I'm loyal, responsible, and a good listener.
Hyukgyu
I do appreciate someone who can teach me new things, and I always try to learn as much as possible from others.
Hyukgyu
But at the end of the day, I'm just a regular guy looking for someone who can be his best friend, love, and partner in life.
PD-NIM
We're looking for genuine people who are willing to share their journey with the world.
PD-NIM
Do you think you're ready for something like this?
Hyukgyu
You know what, I do.
Hyukgyu
As I mentioned before, I'm tired of short-term relationships and want to find someone to really settle down with.
Hyukgyu
And I'm willing to do whatever it takes to find the love I've been searching for.
PD-NIM
Mmhh Before we move on to the next questions, we'd love to hear a little about your backstory and your experiences with love.
PD-NIM
Can you tell us a bit about that?
Hyukgyu
I grew up in a small town in Korea, in Yeosu, and my family has always been very close-knit.
Hyukgyu
I'd say we're a pretty traditional Korean family, with a strong emphasis on education and hard work.
Hyukgyu
When it comes to love, I've had a few relationships in the past, but they never seemed to work out in the long run.
Hyukgyu
I think that's why I'm here today, to find someone who really gets me and is willing to stick it out with me, even through the tough times.
PD-NIM
Thanks for sharing that, Hyukgyu.
PD-NIM
We really appreciate your honesty.
PD-NIM
Let's move onto the next set of questions.
PD-NIM
So, Hyukgyu, you've mentioned that you're looking for someone to settle down with.
PD-NIM
Can you tell us what that looks like for you?
Hyukgyu
For me, settling down means finding someone who's my best friend, my lover, and my partner in life.
Hyukgyu
Someone who I can share everything with, good and bad,
who'll be there for me no matter what, who'll support me in my dreams, and who I can support in theirs.
Hyukgyu
To me, settling down is about finding someone who completes me, someone I can rely on and trust completely.
Hyukgyu
It means finding someone who'll push me to be my best self and who'll make every day better just by being with them.
Hyukgyu
That's what I'm looking for, and I'm willing to do whatever it takes to find it.
PD-NIM
Okay, thank you for your response, Hyukgyu.
PD-NIM
Can you tell us what you love to do in your free time, and what you'd hope to do with your partner?
Hyukgyu
In my free time, I love to read, go for runs, and watch movies.
Hyukgyu
I also love to cook and experiment with different recipes, which has become even more fun after my streams.
Hyukgyu
I've also recently gotten into gardening, which has been a great way to relax and de-stress.
Hyukgyu
As far as what I'd hope to do with my partner, I'd love for us to have our own little traditions and routines.
Hyukgyu
We could make dinner together, go for walks or runs, watch movies and TV shows, or read together.
Hyukgyu
But most importantly, I'd want us to have meaningful conversations, laugh out loud, and enjoy each other's company in all the little moments in life.
PD-NIM
That's a beautiful image, Hyukgyu.
PD-NIM
We can tell that you're very thoughtful when it comes to your relationships.
PD-NIM
Thank you for sharing that with us!
PD-NIM
Do you have any final thoughts or any questions for us?
Hyukgyu
I would just like to say how grateful I am for this opportunity.
Hyukgyu
I've been through a lot over the past few years and have had a hard time finding someone to share my life with.
Hyukgyu
The thought of finally finding someone who can love and support me the way I need is just... well, it's everything.
Hyukgyu
I know it's not going to be easy, and I'm sure there will be challenges along the way.
Hyukgyu
But if there's one thing I've learned in life, it's that nothing worth having ever comes without some hard work.
Hyukgyu
And finding someone to spend the rest of my life with, that's definitely worth it.
Hyukgyu
Thank you for giving me this chance, and I promise that I'll do everything in my power to make the most of it.
Hyukgyu
I'm just really grateful to have the opportunity to share my story and to hopefully find that special someone that I've been searching for.
PD-NIM
We really appreciate your perspective and your passion.
PD-NIM
You seem like you have your head on straight, and you know what you want, which we admire.
PD-NIM
We can't wait to see what the future holds for you.
PD-NIM
Thanks again for joining us for this virtual interview.
PD-NIM
We wish you all the best in your search for love!
Hyukgyu
I'm excited to see where this journey takes me.
Hyukgyu
I'm definitely ready for some more adventure in my life.
Hyukgyu
And, who knows, maybe I'll find out that my forever person is out there waiting for me, just like I've been waiting for them.
A few days later, Hyukgyu received an email from the producers with the subject line "Invitation to Audition."
He eagerly opened the email and started reading:
PD-NIM
We are excited to inform you that you have been selected to proceed to the next round of auditions for our dating reality show. Congratulations! We were impressed by your honesty, passion, and the genuine nature of your answers. We believe you have the potential to be a great fit for our program.
PD-NIM
Please note that this is not a guarantee that you will be chosen as a contestant, but it is an opportunity for you to showcase your personality and your desire to find true love. You will be contacted soon to schedule your audition. In the meantime, please feel free to prepare and get in touch with us if you have any questions.
PD-NIM
Thank you, and we look forward to meeting you soon!
PD-NIM
Best regards,
The Hearts in Harmony Casting Team
With a smile on his face, Hyukgyu read the email a few more times.
He couldn't believe it – he had made it to the next round!
He was excited to see what was in store and eager to show the world that he was ready for love.
He couldn't wait to begin the audition process and take the next step towards finding his forever person.
As Hyukgyu re-read the invitation email, a wave of excitement rushed through him.
He couldn't believe that he was one step closer to finding the love he'd been searching for.
He was eager to show the world who he truly was, and he had a feeling that this experience was going to be one of the most memorable and important moments of his life.
Not only that, but he couldn't help but chuckle to himself, thinking about all the trials and tribulations that had led him to this point.
He was grateful for the difficult moments that had shaped him into the person he was, and he was ready to embrace the unknown with open arms.
Hyukgyu took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and said to himself
Hyukgyu
I'm ready for this
Hyukgyu
I'm ready for whatever comes my way
Hyukgyu
I'm ready to find the love I've always been searching for.
With that, he knew he had taken a major step towards finding his happy ever after. He had a feeling that this was just the beginning, and he couldn't wait to see what lay ahead.
The future was bright, and he was ready to face it with a positive and open mindset.
It was time to embark on a new adventure – an adventure that would take him on a journey to find true love, true happiness, and a forever person to share it with.
[END OF PROLOGUE + CHAPTER 1: Interview]
[Revised as Visual Novel soon!]
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