Timeless | rorasa

Chapter 3: The Game and The Player

Rora was on her way to her next conquest when she received a call from her best friend, Minju. She strode into the exclusive café, reserved only for idols and famous celebrities. Her aura of confidence remained unwavering, even off the stage. The familiar scent of gourmet coffee and artisanal pastries greeted her, a stark contrast to the glamorous world she inhabited. She spotted Minju at a corner table, her nose buried in a thick history book. Despite her fame, Minju was a self-proclaimed geek, and her love for history, the supernatural, and quirky predictions was an endearing trait that kept their friendship grounded.

"Minju, you're still the same," Rora greeted with a smirk as she slid into the seat across from her.

Minju looked up, her eyes lighting up at the sight of Rora. "Rora! It's been a while."

"Yeah, I've been busy breaking hearts," Rora replied with a laugh, her eyes gleaming mischievously.

Minju's smile faltered slightly, replaced by a look of concern. "Rora, I need to talk to you about that."

Rora raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? What's on your mind?"

Minju closed her book, leaning forward. "I know you enjoy the attention and the power you hold over people, but you need to stop being so callous to the women you meet. One day, you'll regret it."

Rora chuckled, waving her hand dismissively. "You sound like Hyein. Come on, Minju, you know me. I'm Rora, the most sought-after idol in the industry. I'm untouchable."

Minju's eyes darkened, her voice taking on a more serious tone. "Life is a game, Rora. And you don't know who's the player and who's being played. Be careful."

Rora leaned back, crossing her arms. "You're so weird. Always with your cryptic warnings. But I'm the player here, remember?"

Minju gave her a knowing smile, a hint of sadness in her eyes. "Just remember what I said. Things aren't always as they seem."

Rora rolled her eyes, finishing her coffee in one swift motion. "You're adorable, Minju. But nothing and no one can touch me."

Minju sighed, her gaze steady. "Rora, I've known you for years, and I've seen how you handle relationships. But there's more to life than just being on top. You can't keep playing with people's hearts without expecting consequences."

Rora smirked, leaning in closer. "Consequences? You worry too much. This is how the industry works. It's survival of the fittest, and I'm the fittest."

Minju shook her head, her expression earnest. "I'm not talking about the industry, Rora. I'm talking about your soul, your happiness. You might not see it now, but this path you're on is going to lead to loneliness and regret."

Rora's smile faded slightly, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her features. "And what do you suggest I do? Settle down? Find true love? That's a fairytale, Minju."

Minju reached across the table, grabbing Rora's hand. "I'm saying, be kind. Open your heart a little. You never know, you might find something real, something that makes all the fame and power seem trivial."

Rora pulled her hand back gently, shaking her head. "I appreciate your concern, but I know what I'm doing. I've got everything under control."

Minju leaned back, a sad smile on her face. "Just remember my words. Life has a way of surprising us, and not always in the ways we expect."

As Rora was about to stand up, Minju added, "Remember that dream you always talk about? The one with the girl whose face you can never quite see?"

Rora paused, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Yeah, what about it?"

Minju's expression grew thoughtful. "I think that girl might play a part in your life. Maybe she's someone significant that you haven't met yet, or maybe she represents something important you need to find."

Rora laughed, dismissing the idea. "Oh Minju, you and your wild theories. It's just a dream. Nothing more."

Minju's gaze remained steady, filled with quiet conviction. "Dreams can sometimes reveal things our conscious mind refuses to see. Just keep it in mind, Rora."

Rora shook her head with a bemused smile. "I'll keep that in mind. But for now, I have a world to conquer."

As Rora left the café, her thoughts already drifting to her next conquest, which had been delayed after spending some time with her best friend. Minju watched her go with a small smile playing on her lips. She had seen something in Rora's future-a shift that would challenge everything she believed about love and power. The wheels of karma were in motion, and soon, Rora's world would turn upside down.

Rora wandered down the lively streets, her thoughts abuzz with anticipation for her next adventure. She had no inkling that Minju's offhand comments were not just the musings of a quirky friend but a glimpse into a future that was about to unfold before her eyes.