Fools & Secrets ✔️

Diecisiete

The Party Crasher

Chapter 17

The lively hum of the tablao buzzed around Lisa, the rhythmic clapping of hands and the sharp tap of flamenco heels filling the air with energy. The warmth of Spain mingled with the rich scent of tapas and sangria, wrapping around her like a familiar embrace. Laughter floated through the room, and Lisa found herself smiling at Minnicha's joyful outburst as Niki twirled in her bold navy-blue dress, the high slit revealing her slender legs in a playful spin.

Minnicha, the center of attention, was stunning in a vibrant red flamenco dress, the ruffles swirling with every movement she made. Jihyo, standing beside them in a silky emerald-green dress, her fan fluttering in rhythm with the music, chatted animatedly. Her elegance was effortless, as always. Lisa adjusted the delicate lace sleeve of her simple black dress, a sleek number with an open back that felt understated compared to the vivid colors around her, but the way it hugged her frame filled her with quiet confidence.

As the music swelled, casting a spell over the room, Lisa's attention was drawn to the door as it swung open with a gentle creak. The sound of approaching footsteps pulled her gaze, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow.

Mingyu stepped into the tablao, flanked by Jaehyun and Namjoon, dressed in casual yet sophisticated attire that set him apart from the crowd. He scanned the room, a small smile playing on his lips as he took in the scene. But the moment his eyes found hers, something shifted in the air.

Lisa's heart gave an unexpected jolt as their gazes locked. It was always like that. She didn't know when it started, but it had become so natural for her—she may deny it all day, but it didn't change the fact that her heart beat for him. Mingyu, too, froze for a moment, his expression softening, eyes widening ever so slightly. She watched as his gaze traced the delicate lace on her sleeves, then drifted down the open back of her dress. The air between them crackled, the simple black dress suddenly feeling like the most daring thing she'd ever worn under the weight of his stare.

Heat crept up her neck, her pulse quickening. The lively chatter around them faded into a distant hum as Mingyu's focus remained locked on her. He looked... stunned, as though he was seeing her for the first time. It was crazy.

Beside him, Jaehyun and Namjoon exchanged amused glances, but neither spoke. Mingyu, usually so composed, seemed momentarily struck speechless, his confidence faltering as he took a slow step toward her, drawn like a magnet.

"Mingyu!" Minnicha's bright voice cut through the moment, shattering the silence as she waved him over, her laugh sparkling like the festive lights overhead.

Lisa blinked, her breath catching as she tore her gaze away. Her cheeks felt warm, but she managed a small smile, trying to steady her heartbeat. She knew she shouldn't react like this—not with him—but something about the way he looked at her made it impossible to ignore. She let out a hearty laugh when he suddenly winked. Earlier today, Lisa had asked if he could make it, and Mingyu had said he'd try because he had things to handle, so his presence was a surprise.

Mingyu finally reached her, his steps slow and deliberate. "You've outdone yourself this time, mama," he murmured, his voice low and sincere, as if he couldn't quite believe what he was seeing.

Lisa blinked, her breath catching slightly at the intensity in his tone. "Shut up, you cleaned up well too," she quipped, rolling her eyes playfully. "Where'd you leave Eunseo?"

He didn't respond right away, his eyes lingering on her like she was the only person in the room. It made her feel self-conscious, but also... special. The simple black dress, the delicate lace, even the lively warmth of the tablao seemed to blur into the background. His gaze felt like a secret—something only the two of them shared.