You Deserve The World || Rorasa

Chapter 2: Just Talking?

As the days passed, Rora and Asa continued to meet regularly for their project. Rora found herself looking forward to their sessions, not just because of the work but because she enjoyed getting to know Asa. Despite her cool demeanor, Asa was starting to open up, revealing bits of her personality that intrigued Rora.

One afternoon, they were seated at their usual spot in the library, surrounded by books and papers. They were making good progress on their presentation, but Rora could sense something was bothering Asa. She was quieter than usual, her responses shorter and more distant.

"Asa unnie, is everything okay?" Rora asked gently, trying to catch her partner's gaze.

Asa hesitated, her eyes flicking away.

"It's nothing," she replied unconvincingly.

Rora sighed and leaned forward, her voice soft and sincere. "You can tell me if something's on your mind. I'm here to help."

Asa glanced at Rora, a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. 

She sighed, her calm image slipping slightly. "It's just... my parents. They expect a lot from me, and sometimes I just feel like a huge disappointment."

Rora's heart went out to her. She knew how difficult it could be to live up to high expectations. Her parents were like that too. She knew exactly how it felt.

"I know how it is. And it's okay to feel overwhelmed. You don't have to be perfect all the time."

Asa looked down, her fingers tracing the edge of her notebook. "I guess. But it's hard to shake off the feeling that I'm not good enough."

Rora reached out, gently touching Asa's hand. "You're doing your best, and that's all anyone can ask for. You're smart and talented, unnie. Don't let anyone make you feel otherwise."

Asa's eyes softened, her usual coldness melting away. "Thanks, Rora," she said quietly, a hint of a smile on her lips.

Rora felt a warm glow of satisfaction. She was getting through to Asa, and it felt like a real breakthrough. "Anytime. We're in this together, remember?"

Asa nodded, her smile growing a little. "Yeah."

The rest of their session went smoothly, and Rora noticed that Asa seemed more relaxed, more willing to share her thoughts. As they wrapped up for the day, Asa looked at Rora with a new sense of appreciation.

"You know, you're different from what I expected," Asa admitted as they packed their things.

Rora tilted her head, curious. "Different how?"

Asa shrugged, a thoughtful look on her face. "I don't know. I guess I thought you'd be like everyone else, but you're not. You're... real."

Rora smiled, touched by the compliment. "I'm glad you think so. I like getting to know the real you, too."

Asa's expression softened, her usual coolness replaced by something warmer. "Thanks, Rora. I'm glad we're partners for this project."

"Me too," Rora replied, feeling way happier than normal. She waved goodbye to Asa as she left the library.

As Rora walked home, she thought about their conversation. She was beginning to see the person behind Asa's cold exterior, and she liked what she saw. Asa was thoughtful and kind, even if she didn't show it easily. Rora was determined to keep building their friendship, to help Asa see that she didn't have to be perfect to be valued.

The next day, Rora arrived at school feeling optimistic. She was eager to see Asa again and continue their work. As she met up with Ahyeon, Chiquita, and Rami, she shared her excitement.

"I think Asa and I are really starting to connect," Rora said with a smile. "She opened up to me about her parents yesterday."

Ahyeon raised her eyebrows, impressed. "Wow, that's great! It sounds like you're really making a difference."

Chiquita grinned. "Yeah, who knew you'd be the one to crack Asa's shell?"

Rora laughed, feeling proud of her progress. "I just hope I can keep helping her. She's a good person, she just needs someone to believe in her."

Rami patted Rora's shoulder. "And that someone is you. Keep it up, Rora. You're doing amazing."

Rora felt a surge of confidence as she headed to class. She was determined to keep supporting Asa, to show her that she was valued for who she was, not just for what she could achieve.

After class, Rora found Asa at their usual spot in the library. Asa looked up, a small smile on her lips as she saw Rora. "Hey," she said, her tone softer than usual.

"Hey," Rora replied warmly. "Ready to get back to work?"

Asa nodded, her eyes reflecting a newfound sense of trust. "Yep. Let's do this."

As they settled into their work, Rora felt a deep sense of satisfaction. She was building something special with Asa, something that went beyond the project. It was a friendship built on understanding and support, and she was excited to see where it would lead.

Rora glanced at Asa, her heart filled with determination. She was going to be the friend Asa needed, no matter what. Together, they were going to accomplish great things, both in their project and in their growing friendship.