I've Changed

21. lucky to have you

~~~~

Jae's pov

"Theo, I don't think this is a good idea," I stall my steps as soon as we're close to Ellie's door.

"Don't worry, JaeJae." He pulls on my hand, practically dragging me along the hallway. "Malcom invited you. He said it was okay for you to visit. Only if you brought a gift though—wait! Did you get him a gift?"

"Of course," I pull out his gift from my pocket. I had to beg Ellie to help me because I don't know Malcom well enough yet.

"See! You're fine," he wipes his forehead and acts like it was a workout.

"I don't know," I hesitate. "I feel as if I'm intruding. Besides, there are people there who hate me."

"We don't hate you, JaeJae." He pouts. "We consider you as a friend. Well...I don't know about Ellie or Eric or Aaron or—"

"I get it."

"But we know you're trying. That's all that matters right?"

I sigh. When I don't give him a response, he flashes his infamous puppy eyes.

"Yeah, you're right."

"Amazing!" His whole face brightens before pounding on the door.

"You made it," The birthday celebrant reveals himself. Our first impression is of him decked out in a tiara and sash.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU—" Theo sings in an operatic tone. One hand is on his chest while the other raises in the air. He plays the part really well until Malcom groans.

"Why are you always loud?"

"Why are you—" Theo doesn't dare to finish his sentence. He zips his mouth close at Malcom's silent warning.

"The party can commence." Malcom widens up the door for us to slip through. "What took you guys long?"

"JaeJae had a little breakdown. I had to convince him—" I nudge him with my elbow. He tends to expose my vulnerable moments to anyone.

We step into their living room where everyone is gathered in. It is then and there, my anxiety returns and reaches to its peak.

My eyes lock with Eric's.

I saw him at Theo's party a while ago but we were too preoccupied. Now, being in the same room, after years of no contact, and dating his ex, the mood has turned awkward.

When it came to everybody else, I had the time to prepare and overthink my approach with them. On the contrary, I never really considered Eric.

Very selfish of me.

We weren't too close in high school so naturally we went our separate ways in peace. Regardless, I still hurt him in someway so with that realization, I'm just as determined to make it up to him like the others. He deserves an apology and more.

Most of them must've sensed the change of atmosphere since they're glancing in between us. If it weren't for Theo's lively personality, I'd continue to be frozen in embarrassment.

"How silly of me," Theo slaps his forehead. "Everyone meet Jae. Jae meet everyone. This is Ellie, Sofie, Malcom, Eric, Alex, Theo, Aaron, Jae."

Complete silence.

"What's the matter?" He genuinely looks confused.

I clear my throat, breaking the tension.