Chapter 21: A Heart’s True Desire
As the dust settled from the chaos surrounding the masked man and Min’s triumphant return, life slowly returned to normal for The Prism. Chin-Sun had fully embraced her role as co-manager, but her heart was still tangled in the emotions from the past few months. 
One evening, after a long day of rehearsals, Jong-Su asked Chin-Sun if they could talk. They found a quiet corner backstage, away from the bustling activity of the crew. Jong-Su's face was serious, a far cry from his usual laid-back demeanor.
"Chin-Sun, there's something I've been meaning to tell you," Jong-Su began, his voice tinged with hesitation.
"I didn't know how to bring it up, but I think it's time."
Chin-Sun nodded, her heart beating a little faster.
"What is it, Jong-Su?"
He took a deep breath, looking her straight in the eyes.
"I still have feelings for my ex, Gyeong-Hui. I never really got over her, and lately, it's been on my mind a lot."
Chin-Sun felt a pang of jealousy and sadness, but she managed to keep her voice steady.
"I see. Do you still love her?"
Jong-Su nodded slowly.
"Yes, I do. I tried to move on, but I can't. I don't want to hurt you, Chin-Sun. You've been amazing, and I value our friendship more than anything."
Chin-Sun forced a smile, her heart aching. "It's okay, Jong-Su. I understand. You have to follow your heart."
Jong-Su looked relieved but still concerned. "Thank you for understanding. You're one of the best friends I could ask for."
As Jong-Su walked away, Chin-Sun made a decision. If Jong-Su’s happiness lay with Gyeong-Hui, then she would do everything in her power to reunite them. She began her search for Gyeong-Hui, determined to find her and bring her back to Jong-Su.
A few days later, Chin-Sun managed to track down Gyeong-Hui, who was living in a small town a few hours away. She contacted her and arranged to meet. When they finally met, Chin-Sun explained everything, including Jong-Su's lingering feelings.
Gyeong-Hui was shocked but visibly moved. "I didn't realize Jong-Su still felt that way. I thought he had moved on."
Chin-Sun nodded.
"He hasn't. He cares about you deeply. I think you should talk to him."
Gyeong-Hui agreed, and Chin-Sun arranged for them to meet. The reunion was emotional, with Jong-Su and Gyeong-Hui embracing and talking for hours. Watching them, Chin-Sun felt a mix of happiness and sorrow. She was glad Jong-Su found his happiness, even if it meant letting him go.
Later that evening, Chin-Sun found a quiet place to sit, her emotions overwhelming her. She couldn't hold back her tears any longer. As she cried quietly, she felt a presence beside her. Looking up, she saw Ji-Yeong standing there, his face filled with concern.
"Chin-Sun," Ji-Yeong said softly, sitting down next to her.
"What's wrong? Why are you crying?"
Chin-Sun wiped her tears, trying to compose herself.
"It's nothing, Ji-Yeong. I’m just being silly."
Ji-Yeong gently lifted her chin, looking into her eyes.
"It's not nothing. I can see you're hurting. Please, tell me."
Chin-Sun took a deep breath, her voice trembling.
"I helped Jong-Su reunite with Gyeong-Hui. He’s happy now, and I’m glad for him. But... it hurts. I cared about him, too."
Ji-Yeong’s expression softened, and he pulled her into a comforting hug.
"You did something incredibly selfless, Chin-Sun. You put his happiness above your own. That shows how strong and caring you are."
Chin-Sun clung to him, her tears soaking his shirt.
"It just hurts so much, Ji-Yeong."
Ji-Yeong held her tighter, his voice filled with emotion.
"I know it does. But you’re not alone. I’m here for you, always."
As the night wore on, Ji-Yeong stayed by her side, offering silent support. Finally, he pulled back slightly, looking deep into her eyes.
"Chin-Sun, I need to tell you something."
She looked at him, her heart beating faster. "What is it?"
He took a deep breath, his eyes never leaving hers.
"I love you, Chin-Sun. You’re incredible, and I promise to love you with all my heart if you'll let me."
Chin-Sun felt her heart skip a beat.
"Ji-Yeong, I..."
He gently cupped her face, his touch tender and reassuring.
"You don’t have to say anything now. Just know that I’m here for you, and I’ll wait as long as it takes."
Chin-Sun felt a wave of warmth and comfort wash over her. Slowly, she nodded, a small smile forming on her lips.
"Thank you, Ji-Yeong. I think... I think I’m ready to let you in."
Ji-Yeong’s face lit up with a radiant smile. He leaned in and kissed her gently, a kiss filled with promise and love.
"I’ll cherish you, Chin-Sun. I promise."
As they held each other, Chin-Sun felt the pain of the past days slowly fading away, replaced by a new sense of hope and happiness. She had found someone who truly cared for her, and she was ready to embrace this new chapter in her life.
In the days that followed, Ji-Yeong and Chin-Sun grew closer, their bond deepening with each passing moment. Ji-Yeong was true to his word, showing Chin-Sun a love she had never known before. He was patient, understanding, and always there to support her.
One evening, as they walked along the beach, Ji-Yeong stopped and turned to her. "Chin-Sun, I know things have been tough, but I want you to know that I’m here for you, no matter what."
Chin-Sun smiled, feeling a sense of peace.
"I know, Ji-Yeong. And I’m grateful for you every day."
He took her hand, his eyes filled with love.
"I want to build a future with you, Chin-Sun. Whatever comes our way, we’ll face it together."
Chin-Sun felt tears of joy welling up in her eyes.
"I’d like that, Ji-Yeong. I’d like that very much."
As they stood there, hand in hand, watching the sunset, Chin-Sun knew she had found something special. She had found love, and she was ready to embrace it with all her heart.
---- The End ----