Romantic Aura

Tension

The next morning, the dorm was filled with the sound of clinking dishes and soft chatter as the girls gathered for breakfast. The usual energy at the table was there, but it felt slightly subdued, especially to Rami, who sat quietly poking at her toast while the others engaged in casual conversation.

Ahyeon and Chiquita sat side by side, exchanging quick glances and soft smiles that didn't go unnoticed by Rami. Every time their hands brushed against each other or they shared a look, Rami's mind spiraled with thoughts about how dangerous this could be if anyone outside their group found out. They seemed so happy, but Rami couldn't shake her worry.

As the group continued to eat, Rami finally spoke up, breaking her silence. "I'm going to spend some extra time in the studio today," she said, her voice steady but with an undertone of distraction. "I want to improve my dancing."

The announcement caught the attention of the other members. Ruka, sitting across from Rami, tilted her head and gave a friendly smile. "Do you need any help? I can join you if you want."

Rami shook her head quickly, her gaze focused on the table. "No, thanks. I want to train alone today," she replied, her tone firmer than she intended. She immediately felt the weight of Asa's gaze on her from across the table.

Asa's brow furrowed with concern, sensing that something was off with Rami. She wasn't usually one to shut out the group when it came to practice. Rami had always been one of the more social members, eager to work with her teammates. This sudden desire for solitude made Asa worry.

Rami, feeling Asa's eyes on her, shifted uncomfortably in her seat. She knew Asa could sense something was bothering her, but she wasn't ready to talk about it just yet. Instead, she focused her attention on Ahyeon and Chiquita, who were sitting close together, sharing quiet laughter. Rami's stomach churned with a mixture of protectiveness and anxiety.

How long could this go on before someone outside the group noticed? What if Sajangnim or a manager caught on? The risks were too high, and as much as she wanted to be happy for the two of them, Rami couldn't stop worrying about the consequences that loomed over their heads like a storm cloud.

As Rami's thoughts raced, Asa's concern only grew. She quietly studied her friend, wondering what was really bothering her. Meanwhile, Ruka shrugged off the rejection and continued eating, chatting lightly with Pharita and Rora, who were still blissfully unaware of the growing tension in the room.

Chiquita glanced at Ahyeon, sensing Rami's eyes on them, and gave her a reassuring smile. But even Ahyeon noticed the shift in Rami's mood. Something had clearly changed since last night. Rami excused herself shortly after finishing, gathering her things to head to the studio, leaving behind a confused Asa and an increasingly worried Ahyeon and Chiquita.

As Rami left the table, Chiquita couldn't help but feel a knot forming in her stomach. She watched Rami's retreating figure, sensing the tension in her friend that had been present since the night before. It was subtle, but Chiquita knew something was off. Rami had always been warm and supportive, but today, there was a distance—like she was carrying a weight Chiquita couldn't see.

Is she worried about us? Chiquita wondered, her gaze drifting to Ahyeon, who was still laughing softly at something Ruka had said. Chiquita bit her lip, her thoughts swirling. She wanted to enjoy the quiet moments with Ahyeon, but now, the worry lingered in the back of her mind. What if Rami thinks this is going to cause problems?

With a sigh, she pushed the thoughts aside for now, leaning into Ahyeon's shoulder with a soft smile, though her mind remained uneasy.