Hidden Affections ; anton lee ff

part 3

The sun shone brightly over Cambridge, though the biting cold of winter was ever-present. It was a typical Saturday morning, and Eden was preparing for a day of shopping with her new university friends, Minju Park and Kazuha Nakamura. Their friendship had blossomed quickly despite Eden's initial reluctance, and their shopping trips had become a regular escape from the academic pressures of Harvard.

"Eden, look at this!" Minju exclaimed, holding up a pastel pink scarf with intricate patterns from Miu Miu. "Isn't it gorgeous?"

Eden glanced at the scarf, her hazel eyes appraising it critically. "It's nice, Minju. But I think you could find something even better in the next store."

Minju pouted playfully, her lips forming a perfect pout. "You're such a fashion snob, Eden. But that's why we love you."

Kazuha, who had been quietly admiring a display of elegant jewelry, turned to them with a soft smile. "I think it suits you, Minju. You should get it."

Minju beamed, her eyes sparkling with delight. "Thanks, Kazuha! See, Eden? Even Kazuha thinks it's great."

Eden rolled her eyes, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Fine, fine. Get the scarf. But only because Kazuha has good taste."

As they continued their shopping spree, Eden couldn't help but reflect on how much her life had changed since coming to Harvard. She had never imagined that she would find such genuine friends, people who accepted her for who she was and didn't judge her for her privileged background. Minju's exuberance and Kazuha's quiet strength had become her anchors in the storm of expectations and responsibilities.

Minju was always a whirlwind of energy. As they walked through the stores, she flitted from one item to another, her excitement palpable. "Look at these shoes!" she exclaimed at one point, holding up a pair of pastel blue ballet flats from Miu Miu. "Aren't they just fabulous?"

Eden chuckled, shaking her head. "You're like a kid in a candy store, Minju."

Minju laughed, unbothered by the teasing. "Well, shopping is my candy! And besides, you need my enthusiasm to balance out your cool, sophisticated vibe."

Kazuha, meanwhile, moved with a graceful ease that spoke to her years of ballet training. She was more reserved than Minju but had a quiet strength that Eden admired. As they browsed a rack of dresses in a Dior boutique, Kazuha picked out a simple yet elegant navy blue gown and held it up to herself, glancing at Eden for approval.

"What do you think, Eden?" Kazuha asked, her voice soft but confident.

Eden gave her an approving nod. "It's beautiful, Kazuha. Classic and timeless, just like you."

Kazuha's smile was gentle, her eyes reflecting genuine pleasure. "Thank you, Eden. Coming from you, that means a lot."

After Dior, they made their way to the Chanel boutique, a favorite destination for all three. The boutique was a haven of luxury, filled with the brand's signature black and white aesthetics. Eden's eyes lit up as she scanned the racks, her fingers trailing over the luxurious fabrics.

As she browsed, a particular dress caught her eye. It was a stunning piece, featuring Chanel's iconic black and white color scheme. The dress was tailored for elegance, with a fitted bodice and a flowing skirt that exuded sophistication. It was perfect for the kind of high-society evening parties where the rich mingled and made connections.

Eden selected the dress and held it up for Minju and Kazuha to see. "What do you think?" she asked, twirling the dress to catch the light.

Minju clapped her hands together, her eyes wide with admiration. "Eden, that dress is perfect for you! You have to try it on."