When they arrived, Dylan turned to Ember, his expression a mix of urgency and excitement. "There are two events today," he explained. "The one in the afternoon is a congratulatory party for emir's first film as a director. So we need to hurry now."
"Let's get ready," he added, his voice warm yet firm.
Dylan gestured for Ember to change first while he waited. With a secret smile, she stepped behind the screen, slipping into the dress she had carefully chosen without his knowledge—a deep red traditional ensemble adorned with intricate embroidery. The fabric clung to her frame like liquid fire, and the delicate dupatta draped over her shoulders added an air of timeless grace. She had chosen this for him, for the way she knew his eyes would darken with admiration when he saw her.
As Ember sat in front of the mirror, her eyes widened slightly. Her slender neck was dusted with faint yet unmistakable marks—visible traces of Dylan's passionate touch from earlier. The moment her fingers gently brushed over them, a deep blush bloomed across her cheeks.
"Dylan…" she whispered under her breath, flustered yet unable to wipe the soft smile forming on her lips.
Her heart raced at the memory. It felt surreal, the way his affection lingered on her skin like a secret only they knew. But reality crept in quickly—what if someone saw them?
Determined to conceal the evidence of their stolen moment, Ember reached for her makeup pouch and carefully began covering the marks. She dabbed concealer, blending softly, doing her best to hide every trace before Dylan returned.
"Just a little more," she muttered, focusing hard, "no one needs to see this... this is ours."
With a final glance in the mirror and a nod to herself, she set the brush down.
A few moments later, Dylan returned from the bathroom, dressed and ready. But as he stepped inside, his breath caught in his throat.
She was sitting beside the mirror, her long, dark hair cascading over her shoulder as she ran her fingers through it, the soft morning light bathing her in a golden glow. The sight of her—serene, breathtaking—left him momentarily stunned.
Sensing his presence, Ember glanced at him through the mirror and smiled. "Dylan, can you tell me how I should do my hair? Should I leave it open or tie it up in a bun—like this?"
As she gathered her hair and lifted it, revealing the elegant curve of her neck and the deep neckline of her dress back, Dylan found himself trapped in a daze, his gaze lingering on the exposed skin. His heart pounded as if caught between admiration and temptation.
"Dylan?" Her voice was soft, pulling him from his trance.
He blinked, realizing he had been staring for far too long.
Ember chuckled, tilting her head. "So? What do you think? What should I do?"
Dylan studied her for a moment, a slow smile tugging at his lips. "I think you should let your hair down. I like it when it flows freely in the air."
But that wasn't the real reason. The truth was, he didn't want anyone else to see what he considered his—to admire the beauty that he selfishly wanted to keep for himself.
Once Ember finished with her hair, she turned around, her gaze sweeping over him. He stood there, effortlessly handsome in a blue pinstriped blazer over a crisp white shirt. The open collar lent him an air of relaxed sophistication, while the morning light played along the fine fabric, accentuating his confident stance. His dark hair, slightly tousled, only added to the allure. He didn't just belong at the celebration—he commanded it.
Their eyes locked, an unspoken intensity passing between them. Neither moved, yet the air between them grew charged, thick with something unspoken.
Dylan took a step closer, his fingers tilting her chin upward ever so gently. Leaning in, his breath warm against her skin, he whispered, "You look beautiful."
And then, before she could react, he captured her lips in a slow, lingering kiss. The world blurred around them—nothing else existed except the warmth of his touch, the way he stole her breath with the press of his lips against hers.
When he finally pulled away, Ember stood there, slightly breathless. Regaining herself, she playfully pushed him back, a teasing pout forming on her lips. "Dylan, you just ruined my lipstick."
He chuckled, a deep, rich sound that sent a pleasant shiver down her spine.
Still holding his gaze, Ember reached for her lipstick and reapplied it, a small smile playing at the corner of her lips.
Dylan simply watched her, his expression unreadable—but his eyes told a different story.
Before heading out, Ember reached for Dylan's hand, her eyes shimmering with excitement. "Wait," she said softly. "I have something for you."
Curious, Dylan watched as she rushed to the dressing room, returning moments later with a neatly wrapped box. His heart quickened with anticipation as she stepped closer, placing the gift in his hands.
"This is for you," she said, her voice filled with warmth.
As Dylan carefully unwrapped the box, his eyes flickered with curiosity. Before he could say anything, Ember added with a playful smile, "Now that you're my boyfriend, it's my duty to take good care of you. So, consider this the first gift from your girlfriend."
Dylan lifted the lid and pulled out a sleek black shirt, the fabric smooth beneath his fingers. His lips curled into a smile. "It's beautiful," he murmured, admiring the thoughtful gift. Looking at her with appreciation, he added, "Let me go change into it."
Before he could move, Ember gently caught his arm. "We're already running late. Why don't you wear it next time?"
Dylan glanced at his watch and let out a small sigh before nodding. "Okay."
With a tender expression, he leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. She closed her eyes for a brief moment, savoring the warmth of his touch before they finally stepped out.
As they drove to the venue, Dylan stole a glance at her, his gaze lingering on the way the deep red fabric embraced her figure. "You look absolutely stunning in this," he said, admiration laced in his tone. "I want to see you in more outfits like this. Let's buy a few more together."
Ember's cheeks warmed at his words. She turned to him with a soft smile and nodded. "Okay."
They reached the venue, the air buzzing with excitement.
As they stepped inside, Ember's eyes were drawn to a massive step-and-repeat backdrop featuring Emir's photo alongside his film poster. Cameras flashed, and whispers filled the space.
Dylan gently placed Ember's hand in the crook of his arm and leaned in, his breath warm against her ear. "Don't be nervous. It's just a few pictures. If you don't want to, I'll stop them."
His gaze searched hers for reassurance.
Ember met his eyes and offered a small, steady smile. "It's fine."
Dylan's lips curved into a smile of his own. "Okay. But if you feel even a little uncomfortable, just tell me."
She nodded in response, appreciating his quiet protectiveness.
As they walked forward, the paparazzi swarmed, the rapid clicks of cameras echoing around them. A flurry of questions followed.
"Who is she?"
"Is she the girl in the poster?"
"Is she new here?"
"Dylan, is she your girlfriend?"
"You're both wearing rings—can we take that as confirmation that you're a couple?"
Ember had known questions like these would come the moment she decided to walk in with Dylan. She had mentally prepared herself, practiced calm responses, even rehearsed polite smiles. But this—this question hit her like a wave she didn't see coming.
Despite her efforts, her breath caught for a second. Guilt flickered across her eyes. How could she forget? The ring on her finger—still shining under the lights—stood like a silent confession. And Dylan... he had forgotten to remove his too.
Ember's gaze darted to him, a quiet panic rising within her. Her expression spoke a thousand words—What are we going to say? What now?
Dylan, sensing her distress, gently reached for her hand and gave it a soft, reassuring pat , His touch was warm, grounding. She looked at him, and in that moment, it felt like the chaos around them faded into silence.
Then Dylan turned to the reporter, his calm gaze unwavering, his voice smooth and deliberate. and simply smiled, exuding effortless charm as he responded, "Tonight is my friend's birthday, so I hope you all focus on him, not me. Let's save the answers for the next event. Now, if you'll excuse us, we are leaving."
The reporters laughed at his tactful deflection, but they didn't press further.
When they requested solo shots of him, Ember stepped aside, giving him space. From where she stood, she watched him under the glare of the spotlights.
"He looks stunning," she thought, unable to tear her gaze away.
Yet, despite the short distance between them, it felt like he was miles away. A strange ache settled in her chest. She absentmindedly played with the ring on her finger, trying to suppress the emotions rising within her. If it hadn't been for her strange teleportation ability, they might never have met—even though they lived in the same city.
Dylan finished with the photographers and turned toward her, stepping closer. "Ember," he called softly.
Lost in thought, she didn't hear him.
He reached out and gently tapped her shoulder.
Snapping out of her daze, she looked up at him.
His brows furrowed slightly. "What are you thinking about?"
Ember masked her emotions with a flawless smile. "Nothing."
He studied her for a moment as if trying to read between the lines, but he didn't push further.
As they moved into the banquet hall, the grandeur of the space unfolded before them. A perfect blend of modern sophistication and cinematic allure, the hall was breathtaking. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows framed the dazzling city skyline, their reflections merging seamlessly with the ambient glow of artistic LED ceiling lights Minimalist yet luxurious tables lined the space, adorned with chic floral arrangements and golden accents, creating an atmosphere of understated elegance. At the heart of the venue stood a futuristic stage, its massive digital screen displaying striking posters of the film. Stylish spotlights cast a dramatic glow, highlighting the director's bold vision.
Today was meant to be a celebration. But in Ember's heart, an unfamiliar feeling lingered—one she wasn't ready to name just yet.
Guests in elegant formal attire mingled, their excitement palpable. Waiters moved seamlessly between them, offering gourmet appetizers on sleek, modern trays. The hall wasn't just a venue—it was a statement, a reflection of the filmmaker's journey, brimming with anticipation, creativity, and promise.
The space was already bustling with people, making Ember feel as though they had arrived late. She glanced at Dylan, a hint of concern flickering in her eyes.
"Dylan, do you think we're late?" she asked softly.
Before he could answer, a familiar voice chimed in.
"No, you're not. This is just the beginning."
They turned to see Cha Eun Woo approaching with his usual effortless charm.
Dylan smiled and extended his hand. "Long time no see. What have you been up to these days?"
Ember greeted him with a polite smile. "Hello."
Woo returned the greeting before replying, "Just some ad shoots were scheduled for today, so I had to finish them a day before coming here. It was tiring, but honestly, spending time with you guys makes it worth it."
Dylan chuckled, nodding in understanding before leading the way toward their reserved table.
When they reached the table, all of Dylan's friends were already seated. Ember greeted them warmly, but as her eyes landed on Cheng Xiao, she noticed something—Xiao seemed to be ignoring her entirely. The subtle coldness in her demeanor was hard to miss, but Ember chose not to say anything.
Darren Chen greeted Ember with a friendly smile before settling into his seat. Their table was right next to another, and as Ember turned back with Dylan, she noticed Adrien was sitting with them.
A bright smile lit up Ember's face as she extended her hand toward Adrien. "It's good to see you," she said warmly.
Adrien greeted her back, saying, "Good to see you too. You're looking really beautiful today."
Ember smile and reply ," aww! so sweet of you".
Dylan, on the other hand, froze for a moment, his expression shifting the second he registered the seating arrangement. His jaw clenched slightly as an irritated thought crossed his mind.
"Just wait until your birthday is over, Emir. I'm going to give you a good beating for this." He mumbled under his breath, his annoyance evident.
Ember didn't catch his words clearly, but the tension in his posture was unmistakable. Dylan pulled out a chair for her like a gentleman, but when he took his own seat, he made sure to make ember sit farther away from Adrien. The round table, however, made it impossible to create much distance. Still, he did his best to pull her chair as far as possible.
Ember immediately understood what he was doing. He's being so childish, she thought, a soft chuckle escaping her lips.
Dylan turned to her, his brows furrowing. "What's so funny?" he asked.
Instead of answering, Ember reached out and gently stroked his hair, her touch lingering for a second longer than necessary. "Too cute," she murmured with an affectionate smile.
Dylan blinked, momentarily caught off guard by her response. Before he could react, his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen—Emir was calling.
"Dylan, can you come for a sec?" came Emir's voice the moment he picked up.
Dylan sighed and replied, "Okay, I'll be there."
As he ended the call, he turned to Ember. "Don't wander around, just stay here. Emir needs me for something."
Ember nodded. "Okay."
She watched him as he walked away, her eyes lingering on his retreating figure until he disappeared from sight. as she turned to Adrien.
"Hey, Adrien," she said, her voice bright with excitement. "I read that book you mentioned."
Adrien looked at her in disbelief. If she had really read the entire book, then she should know by now how dangerous this was for her—how this ability could threaten her health. More importantly, she should have realized that she could stop traveling here anytime.
He forced himself to remain calm before asking, "Did you read all of it?"
Ember's smile faltered slightly. She hesitated before answering, "Actually… I only read the story part from the first volume."
Adrien's expression darkened. "Only up to the story part? Why?" he asked, his voice laced with quiet urgency.
Ember leaned back slightly, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her glass as she spoke, her voice calm yet thoughtful. "When I was reading the story, I realized something… it felt like I was getting a glimpse of things that I should wait to experience myself. Whether it happens or not, I think it's better to let the future unfold as it's meant to. I'd rather leave it in fate's hands and see what God has planned for me."
Adrien watched her closely, understanding the reason behind her words. The first volume of the book mainly told the story of a man who found love through his travels, only to be separated from it. But it never mentioned the real hardships—the struggles he faced, the dangers that came after he stopped traveling. Those answers lay in the second volume, the one Ember had chosen not to read.
His voice was gentle but firm as he said, "Ember, I know what you're going through. But don't you think getting even a glimpse of what might happen could help you understand things better?"
Ember smiled, though there was something wistful in her expression. "I think it's better not to know. And besides… just because that man's story feels similar to mine, doesn't mean I should rely on it."
Adrien tilted his head slightly. "Why do you think that?"
Ember exhaled softly before answering, "In the story, there's a piece of jewelry helping him. And a tattoo appears on his body. But I don't have anything like that."
Adrien narrowed his eyes, deep in thought. Then, as if something clicked in his mind, he asked, "So you don't have anything, you say? What about your earring—the one you've been wearing since the first day you arrived here?"
Ember stiffened, her breath hitching for a fraction of a second. How did he notice so quickly? She had spent all night trying to deny the connection, convincing herself that it was nothing. And yet, Adrien had caught onto it so easily.
She forced another smile, this one carefully composed. "Oh! That? It was a gift from my grandmother when I graduated high school."
She told him half the truth.
What she didn't say was that she had never worn it before—until the first day of college. And that was the same day she first found herself here.
She didn't know why she was hiding it. But she still did.
Tucking her hair behind her ear, she let the conversation shift away.
"Oh…" Adrien muttered, though his curiosity wasn't fully satisfied. His gaze dropped to Ember's hand, and for the first time in a while, he noticed something new. A ring.
His lips curled into a knowing smile as he asked, "So… you're finally together?"
Ember's lips curled into a soft smile as she held up her hand, the delicate ring catching the light. "Yeah… Dylan proposed to me yesterday. Do you like the ring? You know, I really love it."
She wanted to steer the conversation away from the tension, to forget the heavy discussion they had been having. But in doing so, she unknowingly walked into another sensitive topic—one that cut deeply for Adrien.
His expression darkened, a shadow of sadness crossing his face. His voice was low, almost bitter as he spoke. "So that's how it is… You're choosing to be with him, even knowing how short your time together might be? And you're doing this without even reading everything—without knowing the consequences of your future? Ignoring everything… just for the sake of being with him?"
His words carried a weight that pressed against Ember's chest.
"Don't you think you should tell him the truth? So that he can make his own choice too? Pouring all your feelings into someone you might never be able to stay with… that's really brave of you."
Adrien's voice wavered slightly, but his smile was bitter. When he finally lifted his gaze to her, his heart clenched.
Ember sat frozen, his words hitting her like a cold gust of wind. Every single painful thought she had been desperately trying to suppress—every fear, every lingering doubt—Adrien had just voiced them all in one go.
Her hands clenched in her lap, her breathing shallow as she fought against the sting in her eyes. She wouldn't cry. Not here. Not now.
Adrien's eyes widened slightly in shock. He could see the way she struggled to hold herself together, the way her lashes fluttered as she blinked rapidly, trying to will away the tears that threatened to fall. His own words echoed in his head, and realization dawned on him—he had gone too far.
He had meant to speak his truth, but instead, he had hurt her.
Why did his jealousy always end up making the one he cared for the most… sad?
Ember forced a smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. Her voice was barely above a whisper as she said, "I think… I need to use the ladies' room. I'll be right back."
Without waiting for a response, she stood up and quickly made her way out of the hall, leaving Adrien behind—his heart heavy with regret.
Ember rushed to the ladies' room, her heels clicking softly against the marble floor. Once inside, she leaned over the sink and looked at herself in the mirror. Her reflection stared back—eyes glistening with unshed tears, lips trembling with emotions she was trying so hard to suppress.
She didn't know what to do anymore. Adrien's words kept echoing in her mind, cutting deeper with each passing second. Why did it hurt so much? Her heart ached in a way that made breathing feel like a task. She wanted to break down right there, let the tears flow freely—but she didn't. Not tonight. Not now.
With a shaky breath, Ember wiped the corner of her eyes and splashed cold water on her face, trying to calm the storm within her. Then, in a low whisper, she murmured to herself, "Ember, just smile. This is your first day with Dylan as a couple. He likes you… that's what matters. He's with you today, and that's enough."
She picked up her compact and began touching up her makeup. Her fingers moved quickly, but gently, dabbing away the smudges. When she applied her lipstick, her hand paused for a second—was she trying too hard to seem okay?
Just then, the door creaked open and the soft sound of heels echoed behind her. Another girl entered the restroom.
Ember straightened up, instinctively quickening her motions. She was about to leave, but as she walked past the girl, a voice called out behind her.
"Hello," the girl said, her tone casual yet curious.
When Ember turned back, she noticed the girl standing near the doorway—the same one she had seen at the restaurant that day.
"Oh! Hello," Ember greeted warmly as recognition lit up her face. "Your name is..." She paused, trying to recall it, but her mind was still too cluttered to remember.
The girl smiled softly and replied, "Leora. My name's Leora."
"Oh, yes! I'm so sorry—there's just been so much going on in my head, I completely forgot," Ember admitted with a sheepish smile. "Did you get Dylan's autograph? I couldn't find you when I was leaving, so I left it with the receptionist for you."
Leora's eyes lit up. "Yeah! I got it. Thank you so much for that."
As she spoke, her gaze drifted to Ember's hand—and froze. Her eyes landed on the elegant ring adorning Ember's finger.
"Did you get engaged?" Leora asked, her tone more curious than invasive.
Ember was caught off guard. Her breath hitched slightly as her eyes darted toward the ring. Seeing the troubled expression that quickly crossed Ember's face, Leora raised her hands apologetically.
"I'm sorry. If it's too personal, you can skip the question."
Ember gave a soft smile and replied gently, "It's okay. I didn't get engaged... my boyfriend just proposed to me."
Leora's expression shifted instantly. "Oh! That's wonderful—congratulations!"
Ember smiled, her voice tender as she said, "Thank you."
Then Leora hesitated, as if she had one more question bubbling at the edge of her lips.
"So Ember… can I ask you one last question?"
Ember nodded. "Yes, sure."
Leora looked directly at her and asked, "Is your boyfriend Dylan?"
The question hit Ember like a splash of cold water. Her heart skipped a beat, but she quickly masked her surprise and responded smoothly, "No."
She didn't want anyone knowing—not yet.
But Leora wasn't convinced. She tilted her head thoughtfully and said, "So… your boyfriend is Dr. Adrien then?"
This time, Ember answered even faster, "No. Absolutely not."
Leora gave a small, embarrassed laugh. "Oh! I'm sorry, I just saw you sitting with him and assumed…"
Ember gently clarified, "I'm just a friend to both of them. Nothing more than that."
"I really am sorry," Leora said, her voice tinged with guilt. "I didn't mean to pry."
Ember waved it off with grace. "It's alright." Then, quickly steering the conversation away, she asked with a sweet smile, "So… how do you know Adrien?"
She needed the shift. She couldn't keep talking about Dylan—not when her heart was still racing from just hearing his name.
Leora smiled, her eyes softening with familiarity as she said, "Actually, Dr. Adrien and I are from the same country. He's kind of a legend back home—the youngest doctor and researcher we've ever had. Everyone knows him." She paused, then added with a playful glint in her eyes, "And honestly... don't you think he's quite handsome?"
Ember let out a gentle laugh, her voice laced with warmth. "Yeah... he is."
Just as Leora opened her mouth to ask another question, "Are you also an actress—?" Ember's phone buzzed in her hand, interrupting the moment. She looked at the screen—it was Dylan.
"I'm so sorry, I have to attend it . Give me a second," Ember said with a quick, polite smile as she stepped aside to answer the call.
"Hello, Dylan?" she spoke softly into the receiver.
His voice on the other end was tender, filled with just enough longing to make her heart flutter.
"Hey baby… where are you?"
"Dylan, I just stepped into the washroom. What happened?" she asked, concerned but curious.
"Can you come up to room 2001? I'm waiting for you here."
Her lips curved into a soft smile, already feeling her heartbeat pick up with anticipation.
"Okay… I'll be there," she replied gently and ended the call.
Ember turned to Leora with a gentle smile. "I think I need to leave now. It was really lovely meeting you again."
But just as Ember was about to step away, Leora reached out and stopped her. Surprised, Ember asked, "Did you need something?"
Leora hesitated for a moment before replying, her tone soft but cautious. "Actually... I noticed a mark on your neck."
Ember froze. Her heart skipped. No... she thought she had covered everything. She rushed to the mirror, and there it was—a faint, visible mark blooming just above her collarbone. Her fingers trembled as she lightly touched it. It must have appeared when she was wiping her face earlier... and the makeup hadn't completely covered it.
Panic flickered in her eyes as she tried to touch it up quickly, but the concealer wasn't blending well. The mark still peeked through.
Leora, noticing Ember's unease, reached into her small purse and offered her a bandaid. "Here, you can use this. It might help a little."
Ember blinked in surprise, then smiled gratefully. "Thank you... really." She carefully placed the bandaid over the mark, hiding it as best as she could. Her face softened with relief, though her heart still fluttered.
Then she turned to Leora again. "I have something I need to attend, so I should get going now. I hope we meet again soon."
As Ember walked away, Leora watched her with a knowing smile. "We'll definitely meet again," she whispered under her breath.
Without another word, Ember turned gracefully and made her way upstairs. Her heels echoed lightly against the polished marble floor—each step laced with anticipation, every heartbeat growing louder as she approached the door where Dylan waited.