Syncing Dream [Aespa x M!Reader]

Epilogue. Je T'aime

The cold air nipped at Y/n's nose as he stepped out of the car, Winter following closely behind. The streets of Seoul were buzzing with life, wrapped in the vibrant glow of holiday lights and New Year's Eve decorations. The atmosphere was electric, festive, and warm despite the chill.

"Wow," Y/n muttered, gazing up at the rows of lights hanging overhead. He took in the scene—families, couples, and groups of friends, all gathered to celebrate the coming of the New Year. "This place is packed."

Winter laughed softly beside him, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. "It's New Year's Eve, what did you expect?"

"I dunno," Y/n scratched the back of his neck, looking sheepish. "I guess it feels kinda weird to be out with everyone celebrating... your birthday too."

Winter smiled, the warmth of her expression contrasting with the icy air. "Just saying, it's your birthday as well."

The two had agreed to spend both their shared birthdays—and New Year's Eve—together, something that had quickly become a private, little tradition. After the rollercoaster of emotions from their confessions at Sokcho, this felt like the perfect way to ease into their new dynamic, both as friends and... something more.

Plus, he knew if they were to do it at home, the other three would've cooked up mischievous plans instead.

Y/n was trying his best to keep things cool, but internally, his heart was racing. This wasn't just another casual outing with Winter—it was the first time they were officially alone together since their confessions.

"I'm really glad we're doing this," Y/n said, catching her eye as they started to walk down the lively street. "It feels nice, y'know? Just you and me."

Winter nodded, her fingers still intertwined with his. "I've been looking forward to it too. With all the mad stuff recently... I needed this."

The faint blush on her cheeks didn't go unnoticed by Y/n, and he couldn't help but grin at how cute she looked in her cozy winter coat and scarf. "Yeah, me too."

-

Meanwhile...

Across the street, Karina, Giselle, and Ningning were huddled behind a comically large ice cream cart, doing their best to remain inconspicuous. Karina was on high alert, checking her surroundings every few seconds as if they were in some kind of secret mission. Ningning, meanwhile, had her trusty binoculars out and was squinting through them at Y/n and Winter.

"Jimin-unnie, are you sure we won't get caught?" Giselle whispered, nudging the leader with her elbow. "Because I'm pretty sure I saw Y/n glance over here."

Karina shot her a look. "Relax, he's too busy being whipped for Winter to notice us. Besides, this is important research."

"Research? This is pure chaos!" Ningning giggled, adjusting her binoculars for a better view. "I'm not missing a single second of this. Look! He's blushing already!"

Giselle stifled a laugh. "You think they'll hold hands again?"

"They better!" Ningning said, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "I didn't drag you two out here in the freezing cold for nothing."

Karina sighed in mock defeat. "I can't believe I let you two talk me into this."

Giselle chuckled. "You can't back out now, Karina. We're in too deep."

Ningning squirmed with excitement as she caught another glimpse of Winter and Y/n laughing together. "Shh! They're going into a restaurant! This is it—birthday date time!"

The three quickly scampered behind another conveniently placed lamp post, trying to get closer without being seen.

-