Rewrite the Rules

Why we should date: Part 36

A determined glint sparked in Namjoon's eyes as he leaned forward, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Now that you've presented your case against us, Emma," he began, "let me offer a rebuttal. Let me tell you why I think we should date."

"Alright, Namjoon," I conceded, a hint of a challenge creeping into my voice. " let's hear it. Why should we take this crazy leap?"

A slow smile spread across his face, revealing the dimples, his weapons of mass flirting.

"Reason number one," he began, ticking off points on his fingers like a professor outlining a thesis, "we have a foundation built on shared passions. We both care deeply about philanthropy, have a keen eye for fashion, and music... well, music is practically our lifeblood. We connect on a level that transcends the superficial."

"That's a good start," I admitted. "But there's more to a relationship than shared Spotify playlists, right?"

"Absolutely," he agreed. "Reason number two: your maturity and the incredible personal growth you've demonstrated. You've overcome so much, shed the old skin of that party girl persona. Believe me, the last thing I need is someone who needs a lecture on the dangers of tequila shots at three AM."

"I appreciate that, Namjoon," I replied, nodding in agreement. "Keep going. I'm listening."

"Reason number three," he continued, his voice turning softer, "you understand, perhaps better than anyone, the importance of privacy. You've lived in the public eye, witnessed the relentless scrutiny, and you crave normalcy just as much as I do. We can navigate this crazy world together, a united front against the flashing cameras and intrusive headlines."

A thoughtful silence descended upon us as his words resonated within me. He was right. We both craved a sanctuary from the whirlwind of fame.

"That's true," I finally conceded, a newfound sense of understanding blooming between us. "But there are still hurdles to consider, right?"

"Of course," he admitted with a sigh. "Which brings me to reason number four: your media savvy. Honestly, Emma, you blew me away that night. The way you handled yourself when we pulled you out of the crowd – pure charisma. All I could think about was that video of you on stage, captivating the audience with your wit and energy. You sparkled, Emma. You were incredible."

"I... I didn't know you watched," I stammered, surprised by the unexpected compliment.

His smile widened, crinkling the corners of his eyes. "Of course I watched. "But that's not all. Reason number five: we both have the scars of our past mistakes. I've been under the microscope, made my fair share of blunders. We understand the pressures of fame, the importance of open communication, and the constant need for personal growth. We can learn from each other, support each other on this crazy journey."

His words struck a chord deep within me. The vulnerabilities we had shared, the unspoken understanding that transcended our different worlds, it all felt strangely... right.

"That's important," I whispered, the weight of his words settling on me. "But what about the practicalities, Namjoon? There's more to a relationship than just shared interests and past experiences."

A knowing glint entered his eyes. "Ah, reason number six," he declared, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. "There's definite potential for some interesting business opportunities here. Now, I know you don't necessarily need the money, Emma, but there's a certain synergy we could explore, something mutually beneficial. You know exactly what I'm talking about, don't you?"

A surprised laugh bubbled up from my throat, shattering the tension with its unexpected melody. "Business ventures, huh? Not exactly the most romantic reason, Namjoon, but a fair point, nonetheless. So, tell me everything. What kind of global domination are we talking about?"