bapa: from here to eternity

chapter 38: explanation

Mika POV:

Milan was buzzing with the energy of the fashion world. The streets were lined with high-end boutiques, and the anticipation of the show was in the air. I couldn't help but feel a little thrill as Andrew and I made our way to the venue. It was just the two of us, the fashion department students, and the department manager. Bose wasn't here—he was still in Rome with the others, and honestly, I was kind of relieved. He'd never cared much for fashion, and this would've been a bore for him. Plus, with him not around, I didn't have to pretend I wasn't annoyed by Andrew.

We arrived at the venue, and of course, Andrew and I were ushered to the VIP section while the department manager and the students took their seats in the back. Andrew was practically vibrating with excitement. His eyes gleamed as he surveyed the runway, already thinking of the critiques he'd soon deliver. I, on the other hand, was here for the fashion, not the spectacle. But still, I couldn't deny the rush of sitting in the front row, surrounded by the elite of the fashion world.

The lights dimmed, and the first model appeared. Her outfit was sleek, sharp lines and bold colors. I nodded in appreciation—this was more like it. But then came the next model, and my eyebrows shot up. A chaotic clash of neon colors, oversized bows, and strange, clunky boots. I tried to keep my composure, but it was hard not to roll my eyes.

Just as I was thinking how ridiculous it looked, Andrew leaned in, his breath warm against my ear. "Is she wearing an inflatable raft as a dress?"

I smirked, fighting back a laugh. "It sure looks like it," I whispered back.

We continued like that throughout the show, whispering our thoughts, critiquing each piece as it made its way down the runway. Some outfits were genuinely stunning, innovative and bold, but others were just... laughable. One model came out in an outfit so bizarre—something that looked like a cross between a birdcage and a wedding dress—and Andrew leaned in again, this time with a wicked grin. "If the bride can't decide between getting married or starting a new bird sanctuary."

I laughed, unable to help myself. As much as I hated to admit it, Andrew's comments were spot on. For once, we were in sync. It felt strange, having this unspoken agreement with him. We didn't even have to say much; we just exchanged looks and knew what the other was thinking.

By the time the show ended, my cheeks hurt from trying to suppress my laughter. It had been one of the strangest experiences—sharing this unintentional camaraderie with Andrew. Normally, he grated on my nerves with his constant need to show off and be the center of attention. But today, we'd been on the same wavelength. He even made me laugh more than once, which, if you'd asked me this morning, I'd have said was impossible.

As we stood to leave, Andrew looked at me with a smirk. "You know, for someone who doesn't like me, you sure seemed to enjoy our little chats today."

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help the smile tugging at the corner of my lips. "Don't get used to it, Andrew. You just happened to be right for once."

He chuckled, clearly satisfied with himself. "Well, I'm glad I could provide some entertainment."

As we walked out of the venue and into the bustling Milan streets, I felt oddly at ease. Sure, I still didn't like Andrew that much, but today had been... fun. It was one of those rare moments where we connected, even if it was over ridiculous fashion choices. And in the world of fashion, maybe that was enough.

Bose POV:

All day, I noticed it. Chapa hadn't really been herself around me. Normally, we'd share a few words, a laugh, or just a look that would carry more meaning than anything spoken. But today, she was distant. She kept close to the other students, talking to them, laughing with them, like I didn't even exist. It felt... off.