"I-I think I like you," I said nervously.
"You do?"
I simply nodded, noticing how his eyes narrowed at me.
"I don't like you."
Did he just reject me like that? Without even asking me anything?
I expected at least a question - a reaction.
But he just...
Suddenly another notification pops up, I got up to grab my phone from the bed. I saw a notification from jungkook, taehyung's friend.
It was a birthday party invitation, and his address, damn.
I stared at my reflection, biting my lip. What should I wear? Maybe something… bold? Maybe I should skip it. I quickly called Lisa, she picked up after a few rings.
"Are you going to the party tonight?" I asked, already praying for a yes.
She sighed. "Didn’t get an invite. Guess it’s an exclusive thing."
My heart dropped a little. Lisa was my safety net, my comfort zone. The idea of going without her made me hesitate.
I sighed. “Maybe I shouldn’t go either...”
“Come on, Aera,” she said softly. “You’ve been cooped up for too long. Just go. Have fun.”
Maybe she was right. Maybe it was time to make new friends or just prove something to myself.
I stood up and headed to my closet. Without overthinking, I grabbed a fitted dress something that hugged just enough, something that whispered confidence. I wasn’t going to second-guess myself tonight.
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After dressing up, I walked downstairs and told my mom I’d be heading to a party. She gave me a warm smile. “Be careful, okay? Call me if anything feels off.”
“I will,” I assured her with a nod.
Before leaving, I quickly ordered a bouquet of blue flowers, a small birthday gesture. Then I showered, did my makeup, and slipped on my heels. It was already close to 9.
Bag in hand and flowers clutched tightly, I left my apartment, kissed my mom goodbye, and drove off to Jungkook’s mansion. The drive took about half an hour.
It was 9:45 when I pulled into his driveway.
Stepping out of my car, I noticed a few others heading toward the elevator. I followed, assuming the party was on the rooftop , typical Jungkook flair.
Nervous energy buzzed through my fingertips. I clutched the flowers tightly, took a deep breath, and stepped into the lift. A senior-year couple stood beside me, chatting softly.
I stared ahead, cheeks burning at the thought of possibly running into Taehyung. Why did I come?
The elevator doors opened to loud music and laughter. The rooftop was alive. People danced, drank, lounged by the pool some even splashing water like children.
