𝘟𝘖(𝘖𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘐𝘧 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘚𝘢𝘺 𝘠𝘦𝘴) | Nɪᴋɪ FF

2: Proved Wrong

The cab ride to the university was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. As I gazed out the window, the sprawling cityscape and traditional architecture. The city was a living mosaic, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer beauty of it all.

The driver, an older man with kind eyes, glanced at me through the rearview mirror. "This university you're going to, it's one of the more prestigious in Seoul. You must be a great dancer to be accepted there."

I nodded, my heart swelling with pride. "Yes, I am. And I'm also on a scholarship."

The driver's eyes widened in surprise. "A scholarship? That's impressive! Keep pushing forward, even when things get tough. If you do, you'll achieve something great."

I smiled gratefully at his encouragement. "Thank you so much. I'll keep that in mind."

As the cab came to a stop in front of the university, I thanked the driver and grabbed my luggage. I stepped out and took in the sight before me. the campus was even more beautiful than I had imagined.

The buildings were sleek and modern yet seamlessly incorporated traditional Korean design elements. It was a perfect blend of old and new, I felt a surge of excitement at the thought of spending the next few years here.

I headed toward the dorm building, my mind racing about what lay ahead. Just as I was about to enter, a tall boy with striking features approached me. He had a friendly smile that instantly put me at ease.

"Are you new here?" he said.

I nodded. "Yes, I just arrived."

He extended his hand in greeting. "I'm Sunghoon. If you need any help, just let me know."

I shook his hand, feeling relieved to meet someone so welcoming. "I'm Eun Ae. Actually, I could use some help. I'm looking for my dorm, but I'm unsure where it is."

Sunghoon's eyes lit up. "What is your dorm number?"

I pulled out the slip of paper with my dorm number and showed it to him.

"Ah, that's next to Jake's dorm," Sunghoon said with a grin. "You know Jake?"

My face brightened. "Yes, I met him at the airport. We became friends there."

Sunghoon's smile widened. "That's great! Why don't I introduce you to my friends? They're all in the dance studio right now." 

I followed Sunghoon through the campus, my heart fluttering with anticipation. We arrived at a large dance studio where a group of boys were practicing. Sunghoon opened the door and called out, "Hey guys, there's someone I want you to meet!"

Jake looked up and his face lit up with recognition. "Eun Ae, you made it!" He seemed genuinely pleased to see me, and I was touched that he remembered my name.

The rest of the group gathered around to introduce themselves. Everyone was friendly and welcoming, except for one boy who stood off the side. He was very tall, with sharp features, and was intensely focused on his dance moves. 

"Hey Niki, say hi to Eun Ae," Sunghoon prompted.

Niki glanced at me briefly with a cold expression before returning to his routine. The coolness of his demeanor stung, but I tried not to let it affect me.

Sunghoon quickly shifted the topic. "Eun Ae, would you like to dance with us and show what you've got?"

Before I could answer, Niki scoffed and said, "Have you seen her dance? She probably isn't good anyways."

Sunoo, another member of the group, jumped in. "If she got a scholarship here, she must be talented. Let her have a chance."

Niki's comment hurt, but I refused to let it get to me. I took a deep breath and said, "I'd love to give it a try."

Sunghoon explained that they were working on a new choreography and that I could join them. He assured me that they would practice as many times as needed for me to get the hang of the moves.

The music started, and I watched intently as they danced. Every movement was precise and fluid, and I admired Niki's skill, despite his earlier attitude. When he glanced at me, I quickly looked away, focusing on the routine.

When the music ended, Sunghoon asked, "What do you think, Eun Ae?"

I responded honestly. "It was pretty cool. Jake danced great. I mean everyone did a great job.

Niki's annoyance was palpable, but I tried not to let it bother me. Sunoo suggested doing it again, but I shook my head. "No, I've got the moves now. I can do it."

The group exchanged surprised glances, Niki crossed his arms and said, "You're going to mess it up. No one gets it on the first try."

I met his gaze with determination. "Let's see."

As the music began again, I danced with confidence. Each step, turn, and leap was executed with precision. I noticed Niki watching me, then quickly looked away. When the music ended, I struck a pose and waited for their reaction.

The room fell silent for a moment and then erupted into applause. Everyone, except Niki, praised me for my performance. I was relieved and pleased, but I could still feel Niki's coldness lingering in the air.

Jake turned to Niki and said, "Looks like she proved you wrong."

Niki rolled his eyes and walked out of the studio without a word. I felt a mix of triumph and lingering discomfort, and I was happy to have earned some respect from the group.

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