Sweetheart || BBANGSAZ

6. Burnin' Hot Tongue Twister

Two days later. The amusement park was packed, the sun blazin' down, and I'd dressed light for the occasion—shorts, a belt, and a green bandana tied 'round my neck. I was ready for some fun, but also keepin' an eye out for any potential trouble.

Joseph and I made our way through the crowd, the noise of the park and the laughter of kids fillin' the air. He looked a bit outta place with his polite demeanor and all, but I was here to have a good time and see what he was really like.

"So, what d'ya wanna try first?" he asked, lookin' at me with that same shy smile he had on our first date.

I twirled a pigtail around my finger, smirkin'. "How about the Tongue Twister?" I suggested, gesturin' towards the ride with its flashing lights and loud, dizzyin' twists.

Joseph's face turned a bit red, but he managed a nod. "Sure, lead the way."

I grinned, giving him a playful nudge. "Atta boy," I said, before stridin' off toward the ride. The park's energy was contagious, and I was ready to see if Joseph could keep up with the pace.

I needed to reel him in, get him hooked. Like a hound dog, he was gonna lap up whatever I gave him. I wasn't gonna let this opportunity slip through my fingers. As we stood in line for the Tongue Twister, I kept the energy high, throwing him playful glances and chatting about anything and everything.

"Hey, Joseph," I said, nudging him with my elbow, "You ever been on one of these before?"

He shook his head, a bit nervous. "Nope, this'll be a first."

I grinned wider. "Perfect. Just hang on tight and try not to scream too loud." I flashed him a teasing wink and leaned in close, letting my voice drop a little. "You're in for a wild ride."

As we finally hopped on the ride, I made sure to sit close, brushing against him occasionally. I watched his reactions closely, noting how he flinched and laughed, his nerves melting away as he started to enjoy himself. I kept up the banter, asking him questions about his life and interests, and slowly began to close the gap between us, making each touch a bit more deliberate, each laugh a bit more intimate.

By the time the ride ended, I could tell he was more than a little flustered. As we stumbled off, I grabbed his hand, giving it a playful squeeze. "So, what's next?" I asked, my voice dripping with anticipation.

Joseph's eyes met mine, and I saw that look of someone who was beginning to fall for the thrill I was selling. He grinned back at me, a little dazed but clearly excited. "I'm up for whatever you've got," he said.

"Good," I said, pulling him along, "because I've got a few more tricks up my sleeve."

-
Two days prior

On that day. Kim's serious tone sent a chill down my spine. I leaned in, matching her intensity. "What's goin' on, Kim?"

She looked around the bar again, making sure no one was eavesdropping, then turned back to me. "That guy you met, Joseph? He ain't just some random kid. Word is, he's connected to that new bike gang that's been hangin' around."

I frowned, the pieces startin' to click together. "What's that got to do with us?"

Kim sighed, her fingers tapping nervously on the bar. "They've been sniffin' around, lookin' to take over our spot. Their leader's got big plans, and it ain't just about business. They're tryin' to muscle in on our territory, and Joseph? He's their way in."

I leaned back, tryin' to process what she was sayin'. "So you're tellin' me this date wasn't just a coincidence? He was usin' me to get close to us?"

Kim nodded, her eyes never leavin' mine. "That's what it looks like, Hanni. We gotta be careful. I know you can handle yourself, but these guys? They play dirty."