𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐧

🪷 8

The late afternoon sun bathed Miyu's apartment in a warm, golden light. She had just finished tidying up and was about to settle in with a book when her phone buzzed with a message from Miller.

**Miller:** *Hey Miyu, are you free this evening? I was thinking maybe you could come over. I'd love to catch up.*

Miyu hesitated for a moment, considering her plans for a quiet evening. Yet, she found herself intrigued by the idea of spending time with Miller. They hadn't had a chance to talk deeply since their last meeting, and she was curious about how things were progressing between them.

**Miyu:** *Sure, I'd love to. What time?*

**Miller:** *How about 7 PM? I'll order some takeout. See you then!*

Miyu felt a flutter of excitement mixed with nervous anticipation. As the evening approached, she prepared herself, opting for a simple yet elegant outfit—something that made her feel comfortable and confident. By 7 PM, she was on her way to Miller's apartment.

When she arrived, Miller greeted her warmly at the door, his usual laid-back demeanor accompanied by a hint of nervous energy. They exchanged smiles and headed inside. The apartment was cozy, with the soft glow of table lamps casting a relaxed ambiance.

"Hey," Miyu said, her voice gentle. "It's nice to see you."

Miller led her to the living room, where a spread of takeout containers was neatly arranged on the coffee table. "I thought we could have a casual dinner and just talk. It's been a hectic week."

They settled on the couch, and Miller started serving the food. The atmosphere was easygoing, with light conversation about their week. As they ate, Miller glanced at Miyu, sensing her lingering unease.

"Is everything okay?" he asked, his tone sincere. "You seem a bit preoccupied."

Miyu hesitated but decided to share her thoughts. "I've been feeling a bit out of place lately. It's been nice working at the boutique, but I still feel like there's something missing."

Miller nodded, understanding. "It takes time to adjust to new environments. I'm glad you're enjoying working at Fashion Corner, though."

"I am," Miyu said, "but there's also something that's been bothering me. I've noticed that Kali seems to be around a lot. It's just... I don't know. I feel uncomfortable when she's around."

Miller's expression shifted to one of concern. "I didn't realize it was affecting you like this. Kali and I have a history, but we've chosen to stay friends. I understand if it's making you uncomfortable. I'll make an effort to keep things more balanced."

Miyu felt a weight lifted off her shoulders. "Thank you. I appreciate it."

They continued their conversation, discussing lighter topics, and the evening grew more comfortable. The tension from earlier seemed to melt away. Miller, sensing the shift in mood, reached out and gently took Miyu's hand. She looked at him, their eyes locking in a moment of connection.

"Miyu," Miller began, his voice soft, "I really enjoy spending time with you. I want us to be open and honest with each other."

Miyu's heart raced as she felt the closeness between them. "I feel the same way."

Miller leaned in slowly, and Miyu met him halfway, their lips touching in a tender kiss. It was gentle yet full of emotion, a moment of deep connection that spoke volumes about their feelings for each other.

When they finally pulled away, both of them were smiling. Miyu felt a rush of warmth and happiness that she hadn't felt in a long time.

Later that night, back at her apartment, Miyu couldn't help but share the exciting news with Emma. She quickly typed a message, her fingers trembling slightly with excitement.

**Miyu:** *Emma, you won't believe it! Miller and I kissed tonight!! I'm so happy!*

She hit send and set her phone down, feeling a mix of exhilaration and contentment. As she prepared for bed, her thoughts were filled with the evening's events, and she realized how much this new chapter in her life meant to her.

**Emma:** *OMG! I'm so happy for you, hang out with me next week and tell me all about it!*

Miyu drifted off to sleep with a smile on her face, looking forward to what the future would bring and cherishing the newfound connection she had with Miller.