Ai Hoshino had become the talk of Japan. It seemed that every news outlet, gossip column, and social media platform was abuzz with discussions about her secret crush. Fans and curious onlookers alike speculated about the identity of the lucky person who had captured her heart. But amidst the frenzy surrounding her love life, there was another significant development that had shaken the entertainment industry.
Ai had made a bold decision to break away from her successful idol group and pursue a solo career. It was a shocking move that caught everyone off guard. Many questioned her motives and wondered why she would choose to abandon the group that had brought her immense fame and adoration.
Saito Ichijo, the president of Ai's company, called her into his office for a meeting. His face betrayed a mix of disappointment and anger as he scolded her for what she had done. He saw her departure as a betrayal and a foolish decision that would not only impact her but also the rest of the group.
"This was a stupid move, Ai!" Ichijo's voice reverberated through the room. "You've caused the group to suddenly fail. What were you thinking?"
Ai remained calm, her eyes fixed on Dio, who sat beside her, providing silent support. She knew the gravity of her decision and the consequences it had brought upon her fellow group members. But deep down, she felt a strong desire to pursue her own path, to explore her individuality and artistic expression.
"This is what I wanted," Ai replied softly, her voice steady despite the tension in the room. "I felt that it was time for me to step out on my own, to challenge myself and grow as an artist."
Ichijo's face reddened with anger. He slammed his fist on the table, causing Ai to flinch slightly. "You think this is about your growth? You've jeopardized the careers of the others!"
Ai's gaze remained unwavering, and she spoke with a quiet determination. "I believe that we all have the strength to overcome this setback and find success in our own ways. It's not the end for any of us."
Ichijo's frustration grew, and his anger turned towards Ai. He raised his hand as if to strike her, but before he could, Dio swiftly stepped forward, intercepting the blow. His voice was calm, but there was a steely edge to it.
"Don't you dare lay a hand on Ai," Dio warned, his eyes flashing with protectiveness. "You may be the president, but that doesn't give you the right to hurt her or anyone else."
Ichijo's fury intensified, and he glared at Dio. "Who do you think you are, interfering in our business?"
Dio met Ichijo's gaze fearlessly. "I'm only the second most successful name under your company. If you lay a hand on her, then you kiss both of us goodbye."
Ai watched the exchange unfold, her heart filled with a mix of gratitude and admiration for Dio's unwavering support. She realized that her decision to go solo had brought not only risks but also newfound strength and opportunities.
Ichijo, realizing that he had overstepped his boundaries, took a step back, his anger subsiding. "This isn't over," he muttered, his voice laced with frustration.
As the tension in the room eased, Ai looked at Dio, her eyes expressing her gratitude. She knew that she had made a difficult choice, one that came with consequences. But in that moment, she also realized that she had someone by her side who believed in her and was willing to protect her.
"Now if only he'd open his eyes to more important matters," Ai begrudgingly whispered, tucking away a stray strand of hair behind her ear.
She couldn't help but feel a tinge of frustration, longing for Dio to finally see her as more than just a friend and colleague. They had been through so much together, and her feelings had only grown stronger over time. But Dio seemed blissfully unaware of her romantic inclinations, leaving Ai in a state of impatience and longing.
"What are you muttering about?" Dio raised an eyebrow, settling himself on the couch beside her with an air of nonchalance.
Ai sighed, knowing that Dio wouldn't understand the turmoil she felt inside. "It's nothing, Y/N. Just thinking about recent events and how things could have been different."
Dio shrugged, seemingly unaffected by the gravity of the situation. He flicked her forehead playfully. "Well, Ai Hoshino, life is full of surprises. Even I must admit, I didn't expect you to make such a daring decision."
She couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment at his casual response. Didn't he realize the impact her choice had on their lives and their future together? But she masked her true emotions with a playful giggle.
"Hmm, are you muttering something embarrassing?" Ai teased, trying to lighten the mood. "Perhaps a compliment for me? Don't hold back now."
Dio huffed, feigning annoyance. "Ai Hoshino, must I remind you of your beauty when there's a perfectly good mirror in front of you?"
His words caught her off guard, causing her cheeks to flush with a mix of embarrassment and joy. She averted her gaze, fidgeting with her fingers.
"I-I know that already," she stammered, "but it means more when it comes from you."
With a sudden burst of self-consciousness, Ai hastily stood up and made her way to the door, leaving Dio behind, bewildered by her abrupt departure.
"ARGH, STUPID Y/N! STUPID STUPID STUPID!" Ai's frustrated voice echoed through the hallway, followed by the sound of her retreating footsteps.
Dio was left standing there, perplexed and unable to comprehend the sudden outburst. He sighed and picked up the folder that lay on Saito's table, his eyes scanning the upcoming schedules for the following months.
"Hmph, this is alarming," he mumbled to himself, the realization sinking in. Inside the folder, he found confirmation of what he had feared the most – Dio and Ai were not scheduled to be together under any circumstances.
His mind raced as he contemplated the implications of this discovery. How had things gotten to this point? And more importantly, what could he do to ensure that their paths converged once again?
Determined, Dio set the folder back on the table, his thoughts consumed by a newfound sense of urgency. He couldn't let this separation persist any longer. The time had come for him to take action, to fight for the connection he so desperately desired with Ai.