𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐧

🪷 7

The following days passed in a flurry of excitement and anticipation for Miyu as she prepared to start her freelance role at Fashion Corner. She spent her mornings at home, working on new designs, and her afternoons were filled with eager preparations for her debut at the boutique. The feeling of being on the brink of a new chapter in her life was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking.

On a particularly sunny afternoon, Miyu decided to take a break from her design work and head to a nearby café for a change of scenery. She was absorbed in her thoughts, sipping on a cappuccino, when her phone buzzed with a message from Emma.

**Emma:** *Hey! How's everything going? Have you started at the boutique yet?*

**Miyu:** *Hi Emma! Yes, I had my first day yesterday. It went well, but it was a bit overwhelming.*

**Emma:** *That's awesome! I knew you'd do great. Let's catch up soon. I want to hear all about it!*

**Miyu:** *Sure, let's plan something.*

As Miyu finished her coffee and prepared to leave, her phone buzzed again. This time, it was a message from Miller.

**Miller:** *Hey, just checking in. How was your day?*

**Miyu:** *Hi Miller! It was good, thanks. Just had a bit of a busy day at the boutique.*

**Miller:** *Got it. I was thinking, how about we meet up for dinner tonight? I'd love to hear all about your first days at Fashion Corner.*

**Miyu:** *That sounds nice. Where do you want to go?*

**Miller:** *How about that new Italian place downtown? I heard it's amazing.*

**Miyu:** *Perfect. See you at 7?*

**Miller:** *See you then!*

Later that evening, Miyu arrived at the Italian restaurant, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. She had chosen a simple yet elegant outfit, a soft blue dress that complemented her style without being too formal. The restaurant was bustling with activity, but the atmosphere was warm and inviting.

Miller was already waiting at a corner table, his relaxed demeanor instantly putting Miyu at ease. As she approached, he stood up and greeted her with a warm smile and a gentle kiss on the cheek.

"Hey, Miyu. You look amazing," Miller said, pulling out her chair for her.

"Thanks, Miller," Miyu replied, blushing slightly. "It's nice to be here."

They settled into their seats, and the conversation quickly shifted to more relaxed topics. Miller was his usual charming self, recounting amusing stories about his recent gaming adventures and sharing his thoughts on the latest trends.

Just as the conversation was flowing effortlessly, Miyu noticed a familiar face walking in. It was Kali, who seemed to spot Miller from across the room. Her eyes narrowed slightly, but she quickly masked her expression with a bright, overly enthusiastic smile.

Miller noticed Kali as well and waved. "Oh, hey Kali! Over here!"

Kali approached their table, her presence immediately drawing attention. "Hi, Miller! Hi, Miyu. Mind if I join you?"

Miyu felt a jolt of discomfort, but she managed a polite smile. "Hi, Kali. Sure, have a seat."

Kali sat down next to Miller, her demeanor as energetic as ever. "So, how's everything going with the new job, Miyu?"

"It's going well, thank you," Miyu replied, trying to keep her voice steady. "It's been a bit hectic, but I'm really enjoying it."

Kali's attention seemed split between Miyu and Miller. She leaned in slightly, her tone almost flirtatious as she addressed Miller. "I didn't realize you two were hanging out tonight. I just happened to be in the area and thought I'd drop by."

Miyu observed the interaction, noting the subtle yet unmistakable way Kali's body language was directed towards Miller. It didn't escape her notice that Kali's attention seemed more focused on him than on the conversation at hand.

As dinner progressed, Kali's presence added an unexpected layer to the evening. She was polite but kept inserting personal anecdotes that seemed to be designed to keep Miller engaged. Miyu tried to remain composed and participate in the conversation, though she couldn't help but feel a bit overshadowed.

After dessert, as they were preparing to leave, Miller excused himself to make a quick call. Miyu found herself alone with Kali for a brief moment.

"So," Kali said, her tone casual but with an undercurrent of something more. "How's everything really going with Miller?"

Miyu hesitated, unsure of how to respond. "It's going well. We're getting to know each other better."

Kali's smile was polite but carried a hint of something inscrutable. "That's good to hear. Miller's a great guy. I'm sure you two will be happy."

As Miller returned and the evening drew to a close, Miyu felt a mix of relief and frustration. Kali's presence had been a test of her patience, but she managed to navigate the situation with grace.

On their way out, Miller turned to Miyu. "I'm sorry about Kali showing up. I didn't expect her to drop by."

"It's okay," Miyu said, offering a small smile. "I'm glad we got to spend time together. Thanks for tonight."

Miller gave her a reassuring smile. "Anytime. I'll see you soon?"

"Definitely," Miyu replied, feeling more at ease.

As she walked back to her apartment, Miyu reflected on the evening. Despite the awkwardness, she appreciated Miller's company and the chance to strengthen their connection. The night had been a reminder of the complexities of relationships, but it also reaffirmed her growing trust in Miller.

The path ahead seemed filled with both challenges and possibilities, and Miyu was determined to navigate it with an open heart and mind.