𝐍𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | 𝐍𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐚 𝐑𝐢𝐤𝐢 (𝐍𝐢-𝐊𝐢)

EPISODE 3

One week had passed, and the days seemed to flutter by in a haze of excitement and unexpected emotions. Ni-Ki and I had grown closer, our moments together painting a beautiful tapestry of friendship that seemed to wrap around my heart. We'd spent countless hours together, laughing and chatting like old friends who had been reunited after years apart. It felt like something out of my high school dreams, and though I'd once thought that ship had sailed, it seemed fate had other plans. Perhaps it wasn't too late to let my heart find its way back to him.

Today was the day of the party, a swirling mix of nerves and anticipation for both the performances and the chance to see Ni-Ki shine. The backstage area was abuzz with activity as everyone prepared for their moment under the spotlight. Ni-Ki's group was about to perform, and I could barely contain my excitement. I knew they would be amazing.

As I stood backstage, waiting for my turn, I spotted Jaehwan, one of Ni-Ki's group members. With a hopeful smile, I said, "Good luck!"

"Thanks!" Jaehwan replied, his smile wide and genuine, before he headed towards the stage.

Just then, I heard a soft, exaggerated cough that drew my attention. I turned around to find Ni-Ki standing there, his expression a mix of mock irritation and something else I couldn't quite place.

"Good luck," he said, his tone laced with a hint of sarcasm, making me laugh despite myself.

Ni-Ki looked like he was about to march away, but I couldn't let him leave with that stormy look on his face. I reached out, catching his hand in mine. His touch was warm, and it sent a shiver up my spine.

"Don't get upset," I said gently, my eyes meeting his with an earnestness I hoped he could see.

"I am not upset," Ni-Ki replied, though his tone betrayed his true feelings.

I couldn't help but smile, a soft, reassuring smile that I hoped would ease his worries. With a playful glint in my eye, I pinched his cheek. "Do well, okay?"

"Okay, okay, fine," Ni-Ki said, his lips curling into a reluctant smile before he headed off to join his group.

As he walked away, I watched him with a heart full of affection and a fluttering feeling that made my chest ache with sweetness. The song began, and Ni-Ki's performance was nothing short of spectacular. I was completely absorbed by the grace and energy they brought to the stage. The entire time, I was on the edge of my seat, my heart racing with pride and excitement for him.

The performance ended with cheers and applause, but I barely had a moment to process how incredible they were before the host announced my name. With a deep breath and a flutter of nerves, I made my way to the stage, my heart pounding in my chest. I took my position, the spotlight warming my skin.

NI-KI P.O.V

After my performance, I lingered backstage, eager to watch Aecha's set. The anticipation was like a gentle flutter in my chest. The song began to play, and I was completely mesmerized. The stage lights danced around her, and her movements were nothing short of magical. I found myself lost in the rhythm of her performance, my jaw hanging open in awe.

Just then, I felt a nudge on my shoulder. I turned to see Hyunjae and Minho grinning at me. I could feel my face burning as they watched my reaction.

Hyunjae broke the silence with a cheeky grin. "She is hot, isn't she?"

I didn't even hesitate. "Very much so," I blurted out.

The moment the words left my mouth, I realized how they sounded. My eyes widened in embarrassment. "Wait— I..."

Hyunjae and Minho burst into laughter, clearly enjoying my discomfort. I tried to play it cool, but my cheeks were flushed.

"Yah, forget whatever I just said, okay?" I demanded, trying to salvage what little dignity I had left.