Mr. Casanova

The Truth Unfolds

CHAPTER FOUR

Three weeks had passed since the whirlwind announcement of Gemini and Fourth's engagement. The initial shock had given way to a tentative, yet surprisingly comfortable, friendship. Boundaries were still in place, but a sense of ease had settled between them, a shared understanding born out of necessity. Fourth's friends had become Gemini's friends, their shared experiences forging a bond that transcended the complexities of their situation.

Today was the Open House, a major event at the university where high school students flocked to explore the faculties and facilities. Fourth and his friends were tasked with putting on a performance, a showcase of their musical talents. The air buzzed with anticipation, a mix of excitement and nerves.

Gemini stood backstage, watching Fourth and his friends prepare. He had been observing them for weeks, their camaraderie a stark contrast to the loneliness he had known for so long.

"Hello everyone! We're Chinzilla. Please enjoy the show!" Fourth announced, his voice radiating warmth and enthusiasm. The crowd erupted in cheers, their energy palpable.

Mark, Gemini's best friend and fiancé, was cheering on Ford, the band's second vocalist and keyboardist. Gemini felt a strange pang of envy, watching Mark's genuine affection for Ford.It had been weeks since Fourth and Gemini had become close, but this was the first time he was hearing Fourth sing. The melody flowed from him, his voice a captivating blend of strength and vulnerability. Gemini found himself captivated, his gaze fixed on Fourth, his heart pounding in his chest.

"Okay, everyone. We're coming to the last song. This is for those who are in situationships and being friendzoned. Just being friendly," Fourth said, his voice playful, his words resonating with the crowd.

The lyrics, however, struck a chord within Gemini. They felt strangely personal, a reflection of his own feelings, his own confusion.

"Hey, easy there, Tiger. Keep it down," Mark said, nudging Gemini, who hadn't realized he was staring intently at Fourth. Fourth, in turn, was also looking at Gemini, his eyes holding a mixture of curiosity and something else, something that made Gemini's heart skip a beat.

What was that feeling? Gemini shook his head, trying to dismiss the inexplicable emotions that were swirling within him. He needed air, a moment to breathe, to regain his composure. He excused himself from the crowd, his steps heavy with confusion and a growing sense of unease.

Fourth, after the performance, was swept up in the euphoria of accomplishment. His friends, filled with a shared sense of pride, embraced him.

"Should we celebrate?" Ford asked, his voice brimming with excitement."PORK BARBECUEEEE!" they all yelled in unison, their voices filled with anticipation. They rushed out, their laughter echoing through the halls of the university.

As they were enjoying their meal, Mark and Gemini arrived, their presence a welcome addition to the celebration. Mark, ever the charmer, nudged Ford, signaling his arrival. Ford turned, a smile lighting up his face. "Aw, Mark, you're here. Come sit with us," he said, his voice warm and inviting. He turned to Fourth and his friends, "I invited them."

Gemini sat next to Fourth, but a sense of discomfort hung in the air. Fourth, sensing the tension, asked, "Are you alright?"

Gemini simply nodded, his expression unreadable. They continued eating, their conversation filled with laughter and camaraderie, but Gemini's silence was a palpable presence. He suddenly announced that he had to leave, and they reluctantly let him go.

Fourth excused himself to use the restroom. As he was washing his hands, Mark entered, his expression troubled.

"Hey," he said, his voice laced with concern. Fourth could sense the unease in Mark's tone.