Me After You

A night full of butterflies

It was almost 2 AM when I stepped into the office, feeling oddly nervous for no reason. It had been three days since the newly hired agents started working with us, but tonight would be my first time seeing them in action.

Our coach gave a quick instruction—boys would sit next to me, while the girls would be near the support team.

And that’s when I saw him.

He was wearing a mask, but his eyes... they were smiling. I knew that look because I had the same habit—whenever I smiled, my eyes would get smaller too.

Before I could process anything, I heard someone whisper, loud enough for the entire floor to catch it.

“Shoot, Athena, his voice is so manly! You know what, that’s exactly the type of guy I want!”

I pretended not to hear it.

“Shut up, Lee, your voice is too loud,” Athena scolded.

“So? It’s fine. At least he’ll know I’m interested.”

I felt my heartbeat quicken. Was she talking about me?

“Hey, control your heart. I heard from Pat and Helen that you fall in love way too easily,” Athena teased.

“Do you believe them?”

“I didn’t at first, but seeing you flirt like that? Yeah, I do now!” Athena laughed.

“Zip it,” Lee muttered, clearly flustered.

I couldn’t help but smile. Their playful banter sent an odd warmth to my chest.

Taking a deep breath, I finally turned to face them. And just as I thought—he was grinning under that mask, his eyes practically glowing.

Then, Giner, who was assisting the new hires, called out, “Guys, come over here!”

They all moved towards her, sitting in front as she introduced them one by one. We clapped, welcomed them properly, and they returned to their seats.

“RJ’s birthday is on December 30, right?” Giner suddenly announced.

“Yes, and Helen’s is on January 1,” Pat added.

“So, where are we celebrating?” Lee asked.

Before anyone could answer, he declared, “I want samgyupsal. Let’s celebrate there.”

Athena chuckled. “I don’t think we need a discussion anymore. Lee already made the decision.”

I clapped, amused by their dynamic, only to be met with multiple stares.

“You are not invited,” Giner teased.

“Yes, he is! We can invite him,” Lee shot back without hesitation.

Butterflies. That’s what I felt. Tiny, uncontrollable butterflies fluttering in my stomach.

I stole a glance at Lee. He was shorter than me, but his fashion screamed Korean fanboy—round glasses, stylish boots, and a well-put-together outfit.

“Ayiiiieee,” the others teased.

“Wh–what? I’m just being friendly! You guys are so—ugh!” Lee huffed, tucking his short hair behind his ear.

Helen pinched his arm. “Now you’re acting cute, huh?”

“Hey, stop it,” he whined, voice turning soft.

He did sound cute.

The group eventually returned to their places, with RJ, Athena, EJ, and Lee settling next to me.