During one of our lunches at the Star Academy cafeteria, Jiwoong and I talked about our lives as trainees. We've only known each other for a little over a week, but I already feel like he's one of my best friends here. He's easy to talk to, and he always knows how to make me laugh.

We talked about how we don't quite fit in with some of the other trainees. I mentioned to him how I've had some arguments with Giovanna during our training sessions. I don't know what it is about her, but she just seems to rub me the wrong way sometimes.

"I know how you feel," Jiwoong said, taking a bite of his sandwich. "I've had my fair share of judgments based on my looks."

I raised an eyebrow at him. "What do you mean?"

"Well, people often think that just because I'm good-looking, I don't have to work as hard as the others," he explained. "But I know I have to work twice as hard to prove them wrong."

I nodded in agreement, impressed with his work ethic. "I guess we're both misunderstood, huh?"

Jiwoong smiled. "Maybe that's why we get along so well. We're like two misfits in a world of perfect idols."

We both laughed, and for a moment, I forgot about all the pressure and stress of the competition. It felt nice to just be myself around someone who accepted me for who I am.

We ate in comfortable silence for a few moments before Jiwoong spoke up again.

"You know, I've been thinking a lot about what you said last time we talked," he said.

I raised an eyebrow in confusion. "What did I say?"

Jiwoong hesitated for a moment before replying, "About feeling like you don't fit in with the other trainees."

I sighed. "Yeah, that's been on my mind a lot lately. Sometimes it feels like everyone else has this unspoken bond that I'm not a part of."

Jiwoong nodded in understanding. "I know it can be tough, especially when you're new to a group. But believe me, Allison, you belong here. You're talented and hardworking, and you have a lot to offer."

I smiled gratefully at Jiwoong's words. "Thank you, that means a lot coming from you."

Jiwoong grinned back at me. "Of course, that's what friends are for."

I felt a pang in my chest at the word "friends". I knew that's how Jiwoong saw me, and I was grateful for his friendship, but I couldn't help the feelings that were beginning to stir inside of me.

As we finished our lunch, Jiwoong stood up and offered me his hand. "Come on, let's go practice. We've got a long way to go before we become K-pop idols."

I smiled and took his hand, feeling a flutter in my stomach as our fingers intertwined. Maybe it was just my imagination, but it felt like there was something more between us than just friendship.

As we walked to the practice room, I couldn't help but think about how much I enjoyed spending time with Jiwoong. He was sweet, funny, and talented - everything I could want in a guy. But I didn't want to risk jeopardizing our friendship or his career by confessing my feelings.

For now, I was content to just enjoy his company and keep our relationship as friends. Who knows what the future holds? Maybe someday, when we're both successful K-pop idols, we'll look back on this moment and realize it was the beginning of something special.

As we began to practice, I couldn't help but steal glances at Jiwoong from across the room. I admired the way he moved and the passion he put into every step.

I was so lost in my thoughts that I didn't even realize I had stumbled until I heard Jiwoong's concerned voice calling my name.

"Allison, are you okay?" he asked, rushing over to my side.

I felt my face flush with embarrassment. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just lost my balance for a second."

Jiwoong helped me back up and placed a hand on my back to steady me . The touch sent shivers down my spine and I couldn't help but wonder if Jiwoong felt the same way I did.

As we continued to practice, I found myself drawn to Jiwoong's side more and more, wanting to be close to him and feel his touch.

I was in definite trouble.