In between- Spoke x oc!Fem

XXII

I was late. Not just a little late—really late. I had this whole plan to get to the airport early, check in without rushing, grab a coffee, maybe even read a book. Instead, here I was, sprinting through the airport like a crazy person, my suitcase rattling behind me as I dodged through crowds of travelers. I could already hear my friends roasting me in my head.

My flight to Japan was boarding soon, and everyone else from the LifeSteal crew had already gotten to the airport on time. Of course they had. I could just imagine Minuet and Derapchu checking their phones every few seconds, waiting for me to show up like the organized people they were. But me? Nah, I liked to make an entrance.

"Okay, okay, I can do this," I muttered to myself as I weaved through the sea of people, finally spotting my gate. "I'm not gonna miss the flight. No big deal. I've got this."

I made it just as the final boarding call echoed through the terminal, gasping for breath as I handed over my ticket and passport. The gate agent gave me a sympathetic look as I stumbled onto the plane, and I could feel the judgment of my fellow passengers as I squeezed down the aisle.

"Sorry, sorry," I whispered to no one in particular, trying to keep my suitcase from whacking anyone on the head as I navigated the cramped space.

Finally, I plopped into my seat and sighed with relief. I made it. Sure, I was the last one on the plane, but I was here, and that's what mattered. I pulled out my phone to text the group chat.

Avs?????:

Just made it, y'all. Barely.

Minuet technologies:

Of course you did. Always cutting it close.

Derap!!!:

We saved you a seat in the car. We'll be waiting at Narita. Avery: Thanks! Can't wait. See you guys soon!

I leaned back in my seat, letting the excitement wash over me. I was actually on my way to Japan with some of my best friends. This trip had started as a wild idea in our group chat, but now it was really happening. I couldn't wait to explore Tokyo, eat all the amazing food, and make memories with the LifeSteal crew. The thought of it all made the long flight seem like nothing.

Several hours later, after what felt like an eternity in the air, the plane finally touched down in Narita. I gathered my things, still feeling that buzz of excitement, and headed toward the exit. My phone buzzed with a message from Minuet, letting me know he and Derap were already at the arrivals area.

As I stepped through customs and made my way into the main terminal, I spotted them almost immediately. Minuet waved me over, a big grin on his face, while Derap stood beside him, holding a sign that said, "Late Avery" in bold letters. I couldn't help but burst out laughing.

"You guys are the worst," I said, still giggling as I hugged them both.

Minuet shrugged. "You made it, didn't you?"

"Barely," I replied, rolling my eyes. "Thanks for waiting for me."

"Of course," Derap said, grinning. "You're lucky the rest of the group decided to meet us at the Air BnB. They'd be roasting you nonstop if they were here."

"Oh, I'm sure they'll save it for later," I muttered as we made our way to the car.

Once we were packed in, I took the passenger seat while Derpachu got behind the wheel. Minuet sat in the back, already opening up Google Maps to help us navigate to the hotel.