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Part 18: Awkward Moment

After that second kiss, everything felt surreal to Thandar. She could still feel Evan's lips on hers, lingering like a warm breeze she couldn't shake. But as much as she wanted to lose herself in that moment, reality pulled her back when Evan's phone rang. His manager's voice on the other end brought him back to the present, reminding him of his commitments. With a sigh and one last glance at Thandar, he hurried off, leaving her standing there with her thoughts.

The entire next day, from morning until night, Thandar found herself gazing out of the window, lost in thought. She was supposed to be working, her desk cluttered with papers and her laptop open, but her mind was elsewhere. Her fingers absentmindedly traced her lips as she replayed that kiss over and over again. Every time she tried to focus on something else, her thoughts wandered back to Evan—how he had looked at her, the warmth of his embrace, and the way her heart had raced.

She was so consumed by her thoughts that she barely noticed the hours slipping away. All she could think about was Evan—the way he had made her feel, and how everything seemed to change with just one kiss. It was a distraction she didn't want but couldn't resist.

The next day, Thandar received an invitation to Lai's birthday party. Her family was also invited, and Lai made sure to emphasize how important it was for her best friend to be there.

Thandar sighed as she spoke to Lai on the phone, "Lai, I might not be able to attend today's celebration. Lucas is arriving in the Philippines, and I have to pick him up."

"Do you really think I'm going to buy that excuse?" Lai's voice was playful but firm. "You're my only girl best friend, and you're telling me you're not coming to my birthday? Does that make sense? If you don't show up, I swear I'm going to kill you!"

Thandar chuckled nervously, "It's just... I don't think I can face someone there. Plus, Lucas is arriving today. I can't just leave him alone and head to your party..."

Lai didn't miss a beat. "Who the hell is Lucas anyway? Just bring him here! Introduce him to everyone, and problem solved."

"Lai!" Thandar protested, laughing despite herself.

"Come on, don't make me beg, Thandar! Besides, you're coming, and that's final. Bring Lucas, or I'll track you both down!" Lai teased, her voice filled with humor.

The evening of the party arrived, and Thandar found herself nervously standing outside Lai's house, Lucas beside her. When they entered, all eyes turned to them. The sight of Thandar with a guy had everyone buzzing, especially since no one expected it. The crowd was a mix of familiar faces—friends from high school, college, and, of course, Evan.

As Thandar introduced Lucas to everyone, she could feel their curiosity. "Everyone, this is Lucas," she said, trying to sound casual. "He's a close friend from Switzerland."

Her high school friends couldn't resist teasing her. "Just a close friend, huh? Sure, Thandar, we totally believe you!" one of them said with a wink.

Another chimed in, "Close friends from Switzerland, huh? Sounds fancy. Are you sure there's nothing more to the story?"

Thandar rolled her eyes, but she couldn't help but smile. "Seriously, guys, he's just a friend."

They continued to tease her, but it was all in good fun. Even Lucas seemed to be enjoying the attention, laughing along with the group.

Later in the evening, Thandar found herself by the pool, watching the water as the moonlight danced across its surface. The sounds of the party faded into the background as she let herself relax for a moment. She didn't notice Evan approaching until he was standing beside her.

"Enjoying the view?" he asked, his voice soft but teasing.

Thandar looked at him, her heart skipping a beat. "Just needed a little quiet," she replied, trying to keep her tone neutral.

Evan leaned against the railing, looking out at the water. "You know... that kiss... It nearly gave me a heart attack," he said with a grin. "My heart was pounding like crazy. I was so nervous."

Thandar turned to him, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Nervous? You didn't seem nervous at the time."

"Oh, trust me, I was," Evan admitted, laughing softly. "But it was a good kiss, don't you agree, my Thandar?"

Thandar's breath caught in her throat at the way he said "my Thandar," and she quickly turned away, trying to hide the blush creeping up her cheeks. "It doesn't change anything," she said quietly, more to herself than to him.

Evan smiled, not pushing any further. "Maybe not," he said, his voice gentle. "But it was still worth it."