MUSE | HHJ

VIII

Chapter 8

I noticed the change of mood in our group whenever we gather to eat or hang out around the campus. It won't surprise me if they already know how I rejected Rome and his offer. We're in the same society. They can't miss out.

Rome was quiet, doesn't even look at me, and I can feel that he's mad at mw. I understand. He's valid. My rejection must've hurt him so much. I'm willing to wait for him to process and heal from it. He's still my friend, afterall.

“Did you agree to the offer that you'll represent our strand for the foundation day? There's another pageant for it.” Adrian asked.

Oh!

“Yeah.” I simply nodded my head.

“I'm sure that's another win for you. No one has ever won against you.” Dave chuckled sounding sure of it.

I know that no one has ever won against me and I have no loses. But, I'm still not confident that every competition I join in, will guarantee me a win. I always have doubts before going on stage.

“Yeah, for sure! We know that the same candidates are going to represent the same strand. So, what's new, right?” Mika exclaimed.

“Actually, I was offered to represent our strand this time.” Zoey suddenly said, looking at her newly polished nails.

“Woah, for real?!” Mika gasped. “Really, Zoey? I'm sure you have potential!”

“Yeah. Nicole is injured because of volleyball so she's can't do the competition. We'll be rivals for the crown, (Y/N).” Zoey looked at me boringly. She tugged at Rome who's surprisingly staring at me this time.

But he looked away when his eyes met mine. Zoey elbowed him playfully. “Support me, okay?” She chuckled.

I smiled, genuinely happy that she'll join. I always thought she has potential because she's a cheerleader and intelligent also!

“That's good, Zoey. I'm looking forward to it.” I commented.

“You should! Oh, I have new ideas for the competition. I'm tired of seeing the same concepts every time. No offense, (Y/N), okay? I'm just really excited!”

“Don’t worry, none taken. Honestly, same.” I sighed. “I wonder what theme it is this time.”

“I heard it's about artistry and creativity.” Mika chimed in. “It's not the offical theme yet but like just a hunch since I heard about it from the higher ups.” She moved her shoulders up and down.

“Whatever it is. I can't wait. I'm actually nervous but excited at the same time!” Zoey giggled.

Our lunch gathering at the cafeteria ended after an hour. We all went to our classrooms in different buildings. Adrian and I are in the same building and same classroom. Normally, we would help each other out with the lessons and exams.

But this time, I have other plans.

“I guess I'll just go with the others, then. Take care.” Adrian ruffled my hair when I told him I'll be meeting with somebody else to study with.

He wasn't suspicious about it. Adrian is like the most chill friend of mine. He's like a brother to me. I'm glad he's not the type to ask too many questions.

I left the building and when I turn to the corridor, I immediately spotted my boyfriend. He's standing in the corner awkwardly with a phone in his hand. He's wearing a simple white shirt and faded jeans and black sneakers. He has a luxurious watch in his left hand.

Of course, being in an international school is luxurious already.

“Hey!” I greeted him with a hug. He almost dropped his phone if it's not with his fast reflexes. I hugged him from the side and my nose touched his cheek.