The debut day was fast approaching, and the group was busier than ever. Between rehearsals, interviews, and last-minute preparations, Ji-eun barely had time to breathe. Despite the chaos, Ji-hoon remained her rock, managing her schedule and ensuring she stayed grounded.
One afternoon, Ji-eun felt unusually fatigued during practice. Her limbs felt heavy, and a wave of dizziness forced her to sit down. Her bandmates immediately surrounded her, concerned.
"Are you okay, Ji-eun?" Soo-min asked, kneeling beside her.
"I think I just need some water," Ji-eun replied weakly.
Ji-hoon, who had been watching from the back of the room, rushed forward. "Let's take a break. You've been pushing yourself too hard."
Though Ji-eun insisted she was fine, Ji-hoon wasn't convinced. He guided her out of the practice room and into his car.
"We're going to the doctor," he said firmly, starting the engine.
---
At the clinic, Ji-eun underwent a series of tests. She sat nervously in the examination room, her heart pounding as she waited for the doctor to return. Ji-hoon sat beside her, holding her hand.
When the doctor finally entered, her expression was calm yet serious.
"Ji-eun, the results are in," the doctor began. "You're pregnant."
The room fell silent. Ji-eun stared at the doctor in shock, her mind racing.
"Pregnant?" she echoed, barely above a whisper.
Ji-hoon's grip on her hand tightened. He looked at her, his eyes wide with a mix of surprise and concern.
---
The drive back to the dorm was quiet. Ji-eun stared out the window, trying to process the news. Ji-hoon glanced at her occasionally, his mind spinning with questions.
When they reached her dorm, Ji-hoon parked the car but didn't move to get out. "Ji-eun," he began, his voice steady but gentle. "How do you feel about this?"
Ji-eun turned to him, her eyes brimming with tears. "I don't know. This wasn't part of the plan, Ji-hoon. I just… I don't know what to do."
Ji-hoon reached for her hand again. "Whatever you decide, I'll be here. You're not alone in this."
His words brought a small measure of comfort, but the uncertainty still loomed.
---
That evening, Ji-eun gathered her bandmates in their common room. She knew she had to tell them, even though the thought terrified her.
After a long pause, she took a deep breath and said, "I have something to tell you all."
Her voice trembled as she explained the situation. To her relief, her bandmates were supportive. Soo-min hugged her tightly, while Hye-jin placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"We're here for you, Ji-eun," Min-ji said softly. "No matter what."
---
Later that night, Ji-hoon and Ji-eun sat together in her dorm room, discussing their next steps.
"We'll have to tell the agency eventually," Ji-hoon said. "But for now, let's take it one day at a time."
Ji-eun nodded, leaning her head against his shoulder. Despite the uncertainty, she felt a sense of peace knowing she wasn't facing this alone.
---
This chapter marks a turning point in Ji-eun's life, introducing a challenge that will test her strength, relationships, and resolve. It also deepens the bond between her and Ji-hoon, setting the stage for an emotional and impactful continuation of their story.