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.
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, 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?"
Dylan 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 me, I'm 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 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.
As they reached the seating area, familiar faces greeted them—Darren Chen, Adrien, Cheng Xiao, and Woo himself. The group had all gathered at the same table.