𝑬𝑵𝑺𝑵𝑨𝑹𝑬𝑫 | JUNGKOOK

79. Lies In The Dark

Alba's POV

The room buzzed with laughter, strings of fairy lights cast a warm glow over the place. The private suite was decked out with balloons in rose gold, scattered confetti, and a glimmering "BRIDE TO BE" banner. You watched as Nimi spun around in her golden dress, a tiara slightly askew on her head, cheeks flushed with excitement.

You leaned against the bar, a glass of champagne in your hand as you took a sip. It was easy to get lost in the noise, to let it drown out the dull ache that still pulsed in your chest. But tonight wasn't about you. Tonight was about Nimi.

"Alba!" Nimi's voice cut through the din, pulling you from your thoughts. She wove her way through the crowd, her laughter infectious. "Why are you hiding over here?"

"I'm not hiding," you protested, setting your glass down and forcing a smile. "Just...taking it all in."

She threw her arm around your shoulders, pulling you into a side hug. "I'm so glad you're here," she said, her voice sincere. "It wouldn't be the same without you."

You nodded, the warmth of her words easing the tightness in your chest. "I wouldn't miss it for the world."

"Good!" she grinned, her eyes sparkling as she motioned towards Aina, who was currently orchestrating a game involving blindfolds and pinning something on a cartoon version of her fiancé, much to everyone's delight. Farim was busy managing the drinks, her charisma keeping the energy high and the glasses full.

"Yeah, they really did," you said, watching as Aina gestured for everyone to gather around.

"Alright, ladies!" Aina's voice cut through the noise, commanding everyone's attention. "It's time for the next game. Nim, you better get ready because this one's going to test just how well you know your soon-to-be husband!"

Nimi rolled her eyes playfully but stepped forward, the crowd cheering her on. Aina pulled out a stack of cards, each one adorned with ridiculous questions and challenges. The game had everyone in stitches, Nimi missed a few answers, earning playful boos and teasing remarks, but her laughter never wavered. The night was perfect, exactly what she deserved.

You found yourself pulled into the crowd, answering questions, laughing at the absurdity of some of the challenges. Farim came over with another round of shots, and you took yours, the burn of the alcohol a welcome distraction.

"Feeling better?" she asked, leaning in close so you could hear her over the noise.

You nodded. "Yeah. This is...exactly what I needed."

"Good," she said, her smile genuine. "I knew this would help."

Aina clapped her hands, catching everyone's attention once more. "Okay, next up is karaoke! Who's first?"

"Alba!" someone shouted, and before you could protest, Nim was tugging you towards the makeshift stage. The mic was thrust into your hands, and the screen flickered to life, the familiar tune of an old pop song blasting through the speakers.

"Go on, you got this," she encouraged, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

You sighed, but the atmosphere was infectious. The lyrics started rolling, and you belted out the first lines, your voice totally off-key, since you were the worst singer. Nimi also joined you halfway through, and her off-key singing only making you laugh harder.

The room was still buzzing, music pulsing through the speakers as others continued celebrating. You stepped away from the crowd, needing a breather from the overwhelming energy of the party. You ducked into the hallway, the noise fading slightly as the door clicked shut behind you.