All the Other Things We Missed

Chapter 2

✿⁠✿⁠✿⁠

As I sit here with Justin tonight, feeling the weight of exhaustion settling over me, I realize that this study session is proving to be one of the most draining experiences we've faced. The pressure to review and prepare for our upcoming exams is weighing heavily on my mind, making every passing moment feel like a battle against time. Despite our shared goal of studying together, I find myself struggling to focus with Justin's presence beside me. His mere presence seems to distract me, drawing my attention away from the textbooks and notes spread out before us. In this crucial moment of concentration, the subtle distractions he unintentionally brings create a challenge that tests my ability to stay focused.

I steal a glance at Justin. I feel a gravitational pull towards his eyes, sparkling like stars in the night sky. It's as if a universe of emotions swirls within me, drawing me into a mesmerizing cosmic dance that I can't fully comprehend. The intensity of his gaze holds a captivating allure, one that tugs at the strings of my heart and leaves me spellbound in his orbit. A sense of surreal wonder washes over me, mingling with a tinge of uncertainty as I grapple with the inexplicable effect he has on me. The way his eyes seem to reflect a universe of emotions leaves me both exhilarated and unsettled, like a traveler navigating uncharted galaxies of feelings that defy logic and reason. In this moment of cosmic connection, I find myself teetering on the edge of an unknown abyss, simultaneously exhilarated by the unknown and apprehensive of the uncharted territories his starry eyes lead me towards. The intoxicating blend of fascination and confusion swirls around me, enveloping me in a cosmic whirlwind of emotions that both exhilarates and perplexes me.

My mom's gentle knock interrupts our study session, she enters the room with a warm smile. "Emma, dinner is ready. Join us, Justin," she invites, her tone filled with warmth and hospitality.

"Thank you, Aunty. It's a pleasure," Justin responds graciously, his manners as charming as ever.

"We will eat here in my room, Mom," I interject, eager to continue our conversation in the cozy comfort of my personal space.

"Is that okay? Have a little break. Let's chitchat downstairs, kids," Mom suggests, her maternal instincts shining through in her desire for family togetherness.

"Mom? I am a big girl now," I protest playfully, a hint of feigned maturity in my voice.

"Emma, you are such a baby. Right, Justin?" Mom teases, a glint of mischief in her eyes as she looks to Justin for agreement.

"I guess so? Immature sometimes, mature when needed. Crazy at-" Justin's response is cut off by my quick interjection.

"Stop, Justin. You're agreeing with mom now?" I chide him with a smile, reveling in the lighthearted banter that defines our familial bond.

"Yeah, I think so," Justin concedes, a grin playing on his lips.

"Okay, I'll be back," Mom announces as she leaves the room.

"Thank you, Aunty," Justin chimes in with a polite nod towards my mom.

"You know, Justin? You are insensitive. I am not a kid," I playfully scold him, a grin tugging at the corners of my lips.

"I agree. You are a brat," Justin retorts with a playful glint in his eyes, adding to the banter.

"Stop," I protest, trying to suppress a giggle at his teasing.

"No. You started this," Justin insists, a smirk dancing on his face.

"I am not," I deny with a mock expression of innocence, enjoying the back-and-forth exchange.

"Yes, you are," Justin persists, the playful argument unfolding between us.

As I attempt to balance on my chair, a sudden shift in weight sends me toppling backward. Justin reacts swiftly, reaching out to catch me, but our efforts result in a tumble that lands us both on my bed in a chaotic heap of laughter and tangled limbs.