Escalating Rumors
By mid-morning, social media was buzzing. The photo of Draven and Zenith had spread further than anyone expected. Comments ranged from innocent speculation to aggressive accusations. Some fans were angry, feeling betrayed that their favorite idol might be secretly seeing someone. Others were just curious, trying to piece together the truth.
Draven noticed the spike in notifications as he scrolled carefully, his chest tightening with every new comment. Aiven, sensing his unease, leaned closer.
"They're starting to talk… and it's not going to stop," Aiven whispered.
Draven's jaw clenched. "I know. But we can't panic. We just… have to keep calm."
Aiven nodded, though worry darkened his expression.
Members React
At the dorm, Raze and the other members gathered around their phones. Zenith had just left for a meeting, but the lingering tension in the room was thick.
Kaze shook his head. "Wow… they really noticed, huh?"
Arstyx frowned. "It's not just noticing. People are speculating. Fans are… upset."
Raze's eyes were fixed on the screen. He didn't like the idea of anyone interfering with the people he cared about. "We can't let them hurt him," he muttered, voice low. "Not Draven, not Aiven, not Zenith."
Unexpected Confrontations
By afternoon, fans had gathered near the café, hoping to see Draven and Zenith together. Draven stayed by Aiven's side, eyes scanning the crowd, body tense.
"They're getting closer," Aiven murmured, panic creeping in.
Draven nodded, eyes dark. "Then we move strategically. Keep calm. Don't give them a reason to attack."
When a fan tried to approach, Draven stepped forward, blocking the way. Zenith appeared moments later, calm but sharp, his presence enough to make the crowd hesitate.
"You're being reckless," he murmured under his breath to Draven.
Draven's lips pressed into a thin line. "They're testing boundaries. We can't let them succeed."
Zenith's hand brushed against Draven's for just a moment—a subtle reassurance. The crowd didn't notice, but Draven felt it deep in his chest.
Private Moments
Later, when the café had emptied, the two found a quiet spot behind a row of closed shops. Draven's shoulders slumped, exhaustion mixing with relief.
"I hate how this is all happening," he admitted quietly.
Zenith nodded, gaze softening. "I know. But we're not alone in this. We have each other."
Draven looked at him, heart racing. "I just… I don't want anyone to get hurt because of us."
Zenith stepped closer, carefully, his voice low. "Then we stay smart. Together. That's enough for now."
Draven exhaled, tension easing slightly. It wasn't perfect, and it wasn't public, but it was theirs. And for now, that was enough.