You glanced at yourself in the mirror, adjusting the red Tom Casual Contrast Bars Buttoned Jacket over your shoulders. The jacket's vibrant color stood out against your skin, and the fit was perfect, hugging your form in just the right way. You paired it with a Mina Faded Slit Detail Denim mini tight skirt that accentuated your legs, making the outfit feel both bold and chic. Satisfied with your appearance, you turned away from the mirror, ready to face whatever the night had in store.
As you walked back into the living room, you caught the tail end of an argument between Shotaro and Yangyang. Shotaro was sitting on the edge of the couch, his eyes narrowed as he focused on Yangyang, who was leaning casually against the wall.
"I wasn't done yet," Shotaro muttered, clearly irritated by something Yangyang had said.
Yangyang raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "Oh? My bad, go ahead, finish your story."
The tension in the room was palpable, but there was an underlying sense of camaraderie that made it clear this was more of a sibling-like squabble than a real fight. You could tell by the way Yangyang's smirk softened and how Shotaro rolled his eyes that they were used to getting under each other's skin.
Before Shotaro could continue, the front door swung open, and Jaemin walked in, carrying a couple of takeout bags. He glanced around the room, immediately sensing the tension. "What's going on here?"
"Just the usual," Yangyang replied with a shrug. "Shotaro's being dramatic."
Shotaro scoffed, crossing his arms over his chest. "I'm not being dramatic; I was just telling a story, and this guy decided to cut me off."
Jaemin chuckled, setting the bags down on the coffee table. "Well, whatever it is, it can wait. I brought food, and we need to eat before we head out."
The mention of food seemed to defuse the situation, and everyone gathered around the table, digging into the takeout Jaemin had brought. The room filled with the aroma of various dishes, and the conversation quickly shifted to lighter topics, the earlier tension forgotten.
As you sat down next to Shotaro, you noticed the way his demeanor had changed. He seemed more relaxed now, though there was still a hint of something bothering him. You leaned in slightly, lowering your voice so only he could hear. "You okay?"
Shotaro glanced at you, his eyes softening at the concern in your voice. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just got a lot on my mind, you know?"
You nodded, understanding exactly what he meant. The events of the past few days had been overwhelming for everyone, and it was clear that Shotaro was feeling the weight of it all. You reached out and gave his arm a reassuring squeeze. "We'll get through this, all of us."
He offered you a small smile, appreciating the gesture. "Thanks. I needed that."
As you ate, the conversation flowed easily, the group finding comfort in each other's presence. It was moments like these that reminded you of the strength of your bond with them. No matter what happened, you knew you could rely on each other.
After finishing the meal, Jaemin glanced at his watch, his expression turning serious. "Alright, we need to head out soon. The meeting spot is a little ways from here, and I don't want to be late."
Everyone nodded in agreement, finishing up their food and gathering their things. As you grabbed your bag, you caught Jeno's eye from across the room. He gave you a small nod, a silent acknowledgment of the challenges ahead. You returned the gesture, feeling a surge of determination. Whatever was coming, you were ready.
The group filed out of the apartment, stepping into the cool night air. The streets were quiet, the city bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. As you walked, you found yourself falling into step with Jeno, the two of you naturally gravitating toward each other.
"Ready for this?" Jeno asked, his voice low.
"As ready as I'll ever be," you replied, glancing up at him. There was a seriousness in his expression that mirrored your own feelings.
The night seemed to stretch out before you, filled with uncertainty and danger, but you pushed those thoughts aside. You had a job to do, and you were surrounded by people you trusted. That would have to be enough.
The group arrived at the meeting spot—a secluded area on the outskirts of town, hidden away from prying eyes. The atmosphere was tense as you all waited for the contact to arrive, the silence broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant sound of a car passing by.
After what felt like an eternity, a figure emerged from the shadows, walking toward you with purposeful strides. As they stepped into the light, you recognized them instantly—a familiar face that brought with it a mix of relief and apprehension.
"Well, well, well," the figure said, their voice smooth and confident. "Looks like we've got quite the crew here tonight."
"Lee Jeno, always in the thick of things," the contact continued, their eyes locking with Jeno's. "Let's see if you can keep up with what's coming next."
Jeno's expression remained unreadable, but you could sense the tension between the two. The air seemed to crackle with unspoken words and hidden agendas. Whatever was about to happen, you knew it was going to be a turning point.
And as you stood there, ready to face whatever lay ahead, you couldn't help but think back to what Jeno had said earlier.
"I can even be a villain for you."
You had no idea just how true those words would turn out to be.
