Inevitable Proximity

The Unshakable Gaze

Yuna was still trying to steady her racing heart. She couldn't get Eunwoo's gaze out of her mind. In that moment… it had felt like the world had stopped, leaving only the two of them.

Impossible.

An idol… and an ordinary barista.

She let out a small laugh. "You're being ridiculous, Yuna," she murmured to herself. But suppressing the emotions stirring inside her was proving to be much harder than she had expected.

---

NOVA's Shadow

The next day, as Yuna arrived at work, she noticed a small crowd gathered outside the café. As soon as she stepped inside, Minji rushed up to her, eyes gleaming with excitement.

"Yuna! Do you know who's coming here today?"

Yuna blinked. "Who?"

Minji grabbed her arm and pulled her outside, lowering her voice to a whisper.

"NOVA! The entire group! They're coming to our café!"

Yuna's breath caught in her throat.

What…?

Just then, a sleek black van pulled up outside. The doors opened, and Doyoon was the first to step out. One by one, the other members followed.

But Yuna's eyes were fixed on only one person.

Eunwoo.

He was dressed simply yet stylishly, his golden eyes shining as always.

For a moment, Yuna forgot how to breathe.

Minji squeezed her arm. "They're even more handsome up close. Oh my God… Eunwoo might actually be the most beautiful man on Earth."

But Yuna's mind was elsewhere.

---

Fate's Play

The café was buzzing with activity. The NOVA members were seated at a private table, shielded from fans, making the atmosphere calmer than expected.

Yuna took a deep breath. She had no choice but to bring them their order.

Balancing a tray in her hands, she walked toward their table.

And then, it happened.

Her foot caught on something.

Everything unfolded in an instant.

The tray slipped from her hands, the cups and glasses flying into the air.

Just as she braced herself for the impact, a strong arm wrapped around her waist.

Just like that night.

Someone had caught her.

Her eyes fluttered open—only to meet his.

Eunwoo's golden gaze locked onto hers.

The world fell silent.

For the first time, she realized just how close they were. Her heart pounded wildly.

Eunwoo studied her carefully, his voice barely above a whisper. "You need to be more careful."

Yuna quickly pulled away, flustered. "I-I'm so sorry!"

Eunwoo smiled faintly. But there was something in his eyes…

Something that told her he wouldn't be forgetting this moment anytime soon.