EPISODE 20

Chapter 20: Building New Foundations

Nabi’s days were packed with lectures, design projects, and late-night study sessions. As a fourth-year architecture student, she was juggling deadlines and presentations, her world centered around models, blueprints, and dreaming up creative spaces. It was challenging but rewarding.

Her decision to focus on herself had brought her peace, but it hadn’t been easy to navigate the lingering emotions between Taeyang and Jung Hwan. While she valued their friendships, she maintained clear boundaries, hoping to avoid complicating things further.

What she hadn’t expected was the deep friendship that would bloom between her and Seo Joon.

An Unexpected Bond

It began with casual conversations. Seo Joon, the enigmatic model who lived in her building, was often spotted in the café Nabi frequented to sketch and study. One day, he approached her table, coffee in hand.

“You always seem so focused,” he said, his voice calm and measured. “What are you working on?”

Nabi looked up, startled but smiled when she recognized him. “Just a project for my architecture class.”

He tilted his head, intrigued. “Mind if I sit?”

From that day on, Seo Joon and Nabi started running into each other more often, their conversations becoming longer and more personal. She learned that beneath his reserved exterior was someone deeply observant and thoughtful. Seo Joon, in turn, found Nabi’s passion for architecture refreshing, admiring her dedication and creativity.

Late Nights and Sketches

One evening, as Nabi was working late in the building’s common lounge, Seo Joon walked in, carrying a stack of books.

“Still at it?” he asked, settling into the chair across from her.

She groaned, gesturing to her laptop and scattered sketches. “Final year means no sleep, apparently.”

He chuckled. “I get it. Modeling shoots aren’t as glamorous as they seem either. It’s a lot of waiting, posing, and hoping the lighting is right.”

Nabi smiled, appreciating his candor. “At least your work doesn’t require you to measure angles all night.”

Seo Joon leaned forward, examining her sketches. “What are you designing?”

“A community library,” she explained, her eyes lighting up. “It’s supposed to be a space where people feel welcome, no matter who they are.”

He nodded, impressed. “That’s beautiful. You’re not just building a structure; you’re creating a story.”

His words struck a chord with her, and she realized how much she valued his perspective.

Between Taeyang and Jung Hwan

Despite her growing friendship with Seo Joon, Nabi couldn’t completely escape the complicated dynamics with Taeyang and Jung Hwan. Both men continued to care for her deeply, and their feelings hadn’t waned.

One evening, Taeyang invited her to one of his concerts, insisting she see the culmination of his hard work. Nabi couldn’t refuse, and as she sat in the VIP section, watching him perform with an electrifying energy, she couldn’t help but feel proud.

After the concert, he found her backstage, his face glowing with excitement.

“So? What did you think?” he asked, his eyes sparkling.

“You were amazing,” she said honestly. “The energy, the connection with the audience—it’s incredible.”

Taeyang grinned, but there was a vulnerability in his gaze. “I’m glad you came, Nabi. It means a lot to me.”

The weight of his words hung in the air, and she felt the familiar pang of uncertainty.

Meanwhile, Jung Hwan continued to be a steady presence in her life, their conversations often revolving around their shared interests in movies and art. He never pressured her, but his quiet support and occasional moments of tenderness reminded her of his feelings.

A Moment of Clarity

One afternoon, Nabi and Seo Joon visited an architectural exhibition. As they walked through the gallery, discussing the intricate models and innovative designs, Nabi found herself laughing more than she had in weeks.

“You have an eye for detail,” Seo Joon remarked as she analyzed a model of a modern museum.

“I guess it comes with the territory,” she said, grinning. “But you’re not bad at this either. For someone who doesn’t design, you ask all the right questions.”

He shrugged, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Maybe it’s because I like listening to you. You’re passionate about what you do, and it’s inspiring.”

His words caught her off guard, and she felt a warmth spread through her chest. Seo Joon wasn’t trying to impress her; he was simply being himself—genuine and kind.

As the day ended, he turned to her with a serious expression. “Nabi, I don’t know what’s going on between you and the others, but I just want you to know… you deserve someone who sees you for who you are, not what they want you to be.”

His words lingered in her mind long after they parted ways.

Moving Forward

As weeks turned into months, Nabi continued to grow closer to Seo Joon. Their friendship became a source of comfort and clarity, a safe space where she could be herself without fear of judgment.

At the same time, she maintained her resolve not to rush into any romantic relationships. She wanted to graduate, find her footing in her career, and figure out her own dreams before making any decisions about love.

Through it all, one thing became clear: her story wasn’t about choosing between Taeyang or Jung Hwan. It was about choosing herself and embracing the people who supported her along the way.

And while the future remained uncertain, Nabi felt more grounded than ever, ready to face whatever came next.

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