In Your Orbit (1st Book)

Chapter 17: Unfinished Business

A couple of months into their relationship, the air buzzed with excitement as the school field trip week approached. Students were chattering in the hallways, planning activities and adventures. Jennie sat in the student council office, going over a checklist of last-minute details. The upcoming trip was packed with activities-outdoor games, bonfires, talent shows, and even a friendly sports competition. It was a week designed for fun and relaxation, a break from the usual grind.

Jennie glanced at the clock. The bus was set to leave in 30 minutes, and she was almost done with her part of the preparation when the door creaked open. She looked up and saw Alex standing there. Her heart skipped a beat, not from affection, but from the memory of what had happened that day-Alex had tried to pull her aside and force her into a conversation she didn't want, grabbing her and dragging her to the back of the school.

Alex hesitated in the doorway before stepping inside, her expression soft yet uncertain. "Jennie," she started, her voice was barely above a whisper, filled with regret. "Jennie, I'm sorry for what I did. I shouldn't have grabbed you like that... I just wanted you to notice me. But I realize now where your heart lies."

Jennie's gaze remained calm, though her mind flashed back to that day, feeling Alex's grip on her wrist, the tension between them. She took a breath, steadying herself. "Yes, my heart has always been with Lisa," she said, her tone gentle but firm. "What you did was wrong, Alex. We could've just talked. Instead, you tried to force something that wasn't there."

Alex dropped her eyes to the floor, clearly unsure of how to respond. The silence between them stretched uncomfortably before Alex finally looked away. "I just... I still like you, Jennie. That feeling hasn't faded, but I understand now that I can't force anything. I just wanted to apologize."

Jennie gave a small nod. She wasn't angry, just disappointed. "I appreciate the apology, but what happened won't change. We need to move forward."

There was a beat of silence before Alex cleared her throat. "I came to let you know the bus leaves in 30 minutes," she said, her voice a bit more composed now.

Jennie smirked softly, already aware of the timing. "I know. I have someone who always reminds me." Right on cue, Lisa's tall frame appeared behind Alex, her expression a mix of annoyance and impatience. The sight of her frowning like that made Jennie's heart swell, and a laugh bubbled up. Lisa always looked cute when she was trying to act grumpy.

"Baby," Lisa said, her voice playful yet demanding. "Let's go, Jisoo and Rose are already waiting downstairs."

Jennie nodded, stacking the last of her papers while Lisa's eyes never left Alex. There was tension in the air, but not the kind that worried Jennie. Lisa's protectiveness was always endearing, even when she tried to act tough. Jennie could practically feel the heat from Lisa's stare as she watched Alex.

Alex shifted uncomfortably under Lisa's intense gaze. She opened her mouth as if to say something but quickly thought better of it. She just looked down at the floor. Lisa's voice cut through the silence, sharp but calm. "You can go, Alex. What's stopping you from leaving?"

Alex hesitated for a split second before quietly excusing herself and slipping out of the room. As the door clicked shut behind her, the tension eased. Jennie glanced up at Lisa, who was still standing there with her arms crossed, pretending to be serious. Jennie couldn't help but giggle.

"What?" Lisa asked, finally cracking a smile.

"Nothing, you just look so cute when you're jealous," Jennie teased, moving closer to her.

Lisa huffed, though her cheeks turned slightly pink. "I'm not jealous. Just... protective."

Jennie stepped closer, placing a quick kiss on Lisa's cheek. "Come on, let's go. I'm ready." She grabbed her bag, and with their hands intertwined, they left the student council office, ready for the week ahead.