You Deserve The World || Rorasa

Chapter 1: Our Assignment

The school hallways buzzed with energy as students moved between classes, chatting and laughing. Rora walked with her friends Ahyeon, Chiquita, and Rami, their conversation filled with jokes and plans for the weekend.

"I heard we're starting that big project in English today," Ahyeon said, twirling a strand of her hair. "I hope we get to pick our partners."

"Yeah, I really don't want to end up with someone boring," Chiquita added, her eyes scanning the hallway.

Rora nodded, feeling a bit nervous. She loved working on projects but preferred to do it with her friends. As they reached their English class, she glanced around, spotting the usual groups forming.

Among them was Asa, surrounded by her friends Ruka and Pharita. Asa had a reputation for being one of the popular kids. She was always composed, with a cool demeanor that made her seem unapproachable. Rora had never really interacted with her and wasn't sure what to expect if they had to work together.

Their teacher, Mrs. Kim, entered the classroom, her voice cutting through the chatter. 

"Alright, everyone, settle down. Today, we're starting our major project on classic literature," she said. "You'll be working in pairs, and I've already assigned your partners."

Rora's heart sank a little. So much for choosing partners. She glanced at Ahyeon, Chiquita, and Rami, hoping to be paired with one of them.

Ms. Carter started calling out names, and Rora listened anxiously. 

"Rora, you'll be working with Asa," she announced.

Rora's stomach did a flip. 

Asa? 

She looked over at Asa, who seemed unfazed, her expression as cool as ever. Asa glanced at Rora, gave a small nod, and then went back to talking with Ruka and Pharita.

As the rest of the pairs were announced, Rora felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. This was her chance to get to know Asa, but she had no idea how to approach someone so different from her.

After class, Rora gathered her courage and walked over to Asa, who was packing her bag. 

"Hi, Asa," she said with a smile. "Looks like we're partners for the project. I'm really excited to work with you."

Asa looked up, her expression neutral. "Yeah, same," she replied calmly. "I guess we should figure out a time to work on it."

If Rora had to be honest, the calmness was getting a bit frustrating by now.

but still, Rora nodded eagerly. "How about we meet after school in the library? We can start planning and see what ideas we come up with."

Asa considered this for a moment, then nodded. "Okay. The library it is."

"Great!" Rora said, feeling a small victory. "I'll see you there."

Rora's friends caught up with her as she walked out of the classroom. 

"You're working with Asa?" Chiquita asked, her eyebrows raised.

"Yeah," Rora replied, trying to sound positive. "I think it'll be interesting. She seems nice, even if she's a bit... reserved."

"Well, good luck," Rami said with a grin. "Maybe you'll bring out her softer side."

Rora laughed, hoping her friends were right. She was determined to make the best of the situation and see what she could learn about Asa.

After school, Rora headed to the library, her mind buzzing with ideas for the project. She found a quiet table and set out her notes, waiting for Asa. It wasn't long before Asa walked in, her expression as composed as ever.

"Hi, unnie!" Rora greeted her cheerfully. "Ready to start brainstorming?"

Asa sat down across from her, her gaze steady.

"Unnie?" Asa asked, trying to process what she had just been called. No one called her 'unnie'. Ever.

"I can call you that, right?" Rora asked, half hoping that Asa would say no.

"That's fine, I actually liked it," Asa replied, smiling a bit.

Did she just s-smile?

"You have a nice smile, unnie," Rora said, also smiling softly.

Asa realized she had smiled and heard what Rora said. She put her head down, still smiling.

Rora laughed.

Rora launched into her ideas, suggesting they focus on a classic novel and create a multimedia presentation. Asa listened quietly, occasionally nodding but not offering much input.

As they worked, Rora noticed that Asa was thoughtful, even if she didn't say much. Her comments were insightful, and she seemed to understand the material well. Rora tried to engage her more, asking questions and encouraging her to share her thoughts.

Despite Asa's cold attitude, Rora felt there was more to her than met the eye. She was determined to find a way to connect with her, to understand why she kept everyone at a distance.

By the end of their session, they had a solid plan for their project. Rora smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thanks for your help, unnie. I think we've got a great start."

Asa nodded, her expression softening just a bit. "Yeah. It's a good plan."

Rora felt a flicker of hope. Maybe this was the beginning of a real connection. "See you tomorrow!" she said brightly.

Asa gave a small nod in return, and Rora left the library, feeling determined to break through Asa's icy vibe. She believed that with time and patience, she could reach the real Asa beneath the cold surface.

And Asa was still smiling when she walked out the library.