My love from the court

Chapter 7: The Festival

The sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the sprawling campus of Ateneo. It was a day of celebration, marked by the gentle rustle of banners fluttering in the breeze and the cheerful chatter of students and visitors alike. The air was thick with the aroma of freshly cooked treats wafting from colorful food stalls, promising tantalizing delights to anyone passing by.

In the heart of the campus, amidst a sea of laughter and excitement, stood a grand festival ground. Booths adorned with vibrant decorations beckoned to attendees, offering a myriad of games and activities to indulge in. From classic ring toss games to skill-testing challenges, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Among the throngs of people, Karina navigated the bustling scene with determined steps. Her eyes alight with anticipation, she couldn't help but steal glances at the figure of Winter, a familiar presence amidst the crowd. With Minju and Yi-zhuo at her side, mischief danced in their eyes as they whispered conspiratorially, their playful schemes taking shape.

As the trio approached the ring toss game, Karina's heart quickened with a mix of nerves and determination. With Minju and Yi-zhuo egging her on, she took up the challenge, each toss of the ring accompanied by hopeful anticipation. Time seemed to stretch endlessly as she persevered, her determination unwavering despite the mounting odds.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity of attempts, a victorious cry pierced the air as the ring found its mark, encircling the elusive prize—a giant stuffed bear. Karina's face lit up with sheer delight as she clutched the prize tightly, a triumphant smile gracing her lips.

 

With Winter in her sights, Karina's nerves fluttered anew as she approached, the massive bear in tow. As she presented her gift, Winter's eyes widened in surprise, a warmth spreading across their features. Gratitude laced their words as they accepted the offering, their genuine appreciation evident in every gesture.

In that fleeting moment, as Winter embraced the bear with heartfelt gratitude, Karina felt a glimmer of hope ignite within her. Despite the awkwardness and obstacles that had plagued her path, this simple gesture held the promise of a connection blossoming amidst the chaos of the festival. And as laughter echoed in the air and the festivities continued to unfold, Karina couldn't help but dare to believe that perhaps, just perhaps, her efforts were slowly bearing fruit.

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The dimly lit parking lot served as an unlikely stage for the brewing confrontation between Somi and Karina. Somi, her silhouette outlined against the glow of distant streetlights, exuded an aura of frustration and concern. Her features, illuminated by the faint light, betrayed a mixture of anger and determination, casting sharp shadows across her face that mirrored the intensity of her emotions.

"You're a distraction," Somi grumbled, her words cutting through the air like a sharpened blade. The accusation hung heavy between them, stirring a palpable tension in the night.Karina's brow furrowed in disbelief, her heart sinking at the unexpected confrontation. "I'm sorry, what?" Her voice trembled slightly, a blend of confusion and hurt tainting her words as she turned to face Somi, searching for any sign of understanding or remorse.

Somi remained steadfast, her expression hardened, her gaze unwavering as it met Karina's with a steely resolve. "You heard me," she retorted, bitterness dripping from her tone. "You're nothing but a distraction for her. Always hovering around, trying to steal her attention."

Indignation flushed Karina's cheeks as she struggled to contain her rising frustration. "And you think you're not?" she shot back, her voice rising with each word. "With your constant need to have her and your delusional love for her? Do you even stop to consider whether she finds you annoying?"

Somi bristled at Karina's words, her jaw clenching in barely restrained anger. "You have no idea what you're talking about," she spat, her voice thick with disdain. "You think you know her better than I do? You're delusional."

Karina shook her head in disbelief, her resolve hardening as she met Somi's gaze head-on. "Delusional? I think you're the one who's delusional."

Somi's features contorted with rage, her fists clenching at her sides as she struggled to maintain her composure. "You have no right to judge me," she seethed, her voice barely above a whisper. "You're just jealous because she's chosen me over you."

Karina smirked, a mocking grin playing at her lips. "You've just proven my point, delulu girl."Somi gritted her teeth, her frustration boiling over into a simmering rage.

As the tension crackled between them, the air thick with unspoken grievances, each word hung heavy like a weighty accusation. Somi's gaze softened slightly, a flicker of uncertainty betraying her stoic facade.

Despite the clash of wills, Karina remained remarkably composed, her demeanor a testament to her quiet resolve. Her gaze, unwavering, held a depth of sincerity that belied the turmoil within.Their confrontation, a collision of opposing forces, painted a vivid picture of conflicting emotions—frustration mingled with empathy, skepticism tempered by hope. In the stillness of the night, amidst the faint glow of streetlights, Somi and Karina stood locked in a battle of wills, their hearts laid bare beneath the veil of darkness.