The Cold Edge Of Romance | hj

Chapter Twelve: Date Night.

As the week rolled on, Aria found herself confiding in her friends about everything that had transpired with Joshua. Over coffee at their favorite café, she laid bare her feelings of confusion and hurt, the tension of the previous days spilling out as she spoke. She recounted the heated confrontation in his office and the way Joshua had treated her, his cruel words still echoing in her mind.

Mia and Natalie listened intently, their expressions shifting from concern to determination. "You deserve better than how he's been treating you," Mia said, shaking her head. "And I can't believe you're actually going out with Mingyu!"

Natalie's eyes sparkled with excitement. "This is the perfect opportunity to show Joshua that you're moving on. We need to make sure you look amazing for your date!"

Aria chuckled, feeling a small wave of relief wash over her. It was comforting to have her friends rallying around her, especially with the mess of emotions swirling inside her. "I just don't want to overdo it. I mean, it's just a casual date."

"Just a casual date?" Mia exclaimed, a mischievous smile spreading across her face. "This is your chance to shine! Let us handle this."

And so, the mission of dressing Aria up for her date began. The next evening, her bedroom turned into a whirlwind of clothes, accessories, and makeup as Mia and Natalie pulled out all the stops. Aria stood in front of her mirror, surrounded by a sea of outfits, while her friends rummaged through her closet.

When Aria texted Mingyu earlier in the day to ask if she should dress casually or go for something fancier, his reply was simple yet reassuring: "Just wear something comfortable. I want you to be yourself." That settled it-she decided on a fitted black top paired with her favorite skinny jeans and a black leather jacket that added just the right amount of edge to her look.

Mia styled her hair into loose waves, framing her face perfectly, while Natalie worked her magic with makeup. They opted for a natural look with a hint of smoky eyes and a touch of red lipstick that made Aria feel both confident and beautiful.

"Just wait until Mingyu sees you," Mia said, giving Aria a final once-over. "He won't be able to take his eyes off you."

"Okay, okay, you two are going to make me nervous!" Aria laughed, trying to calm her racing heart. She felt a mix of excitement and anxiety, but as she looked in the mirror, she couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the evening ahead.

When the doorbell rang, Aria's stomach flipped with butterflies. "That must be him!" she exclaimed, her heart racing as she took a deep breath.

"Go get him, girl!" Natalie said, giving her a gentle push toward the door.

Aria opened the door to find Mingyu standing there, looking handsome in a casual yet stylish outfit. His eyes widened as he took in her appearance. "Wow, you look amazing!" he said, flashing her a genuine smile that made her cheeks flush.

"Thanks! You look great too," she replied, feeling a rush of warmth.

They headed out together, Mingyu holding the car door open for her as they made their way to a cozy restaurant that he had picked out. The ambiance was warm and inviting, filled with soft lights and the tantalizing aroma of delicious food. As they sat down and began to talk, Aria felt herself relax. They shared stories and laughter, enjoying the easy chemistry that had developed between them.

After dinner, Mingyu suggested they catch a movie, and Aria happily agreed. They made their way to the cinema, the conversation flowing effortlessly as they walked side by side, their fingers brushing together occasionally.

When the night came to an end, Mingyu drove her back to her apartment, the car filled with a comfortable silence as they both replayed the night's events in their minds. As he pulled up outside, Aria felt a sense of disappointment wash over her at the thought of saying goodbye.

Mingyu turned to her, his expression softening. "I had a really great time tonight, Aria."

"Me too," she said, her heart fluttering.

He leaned in closer, and their eyes locked for a moment that felt electrifying. Then, tentatively, he brushed his lips against hers in a gentle kiss. The warmth of the moment enveloped them, and Aria felt a thrill course through her as she kissed him back.

Mingyu pulled away slightly, a smile tugging at his lips. "I'd love to do this again," he said, his voice a low murmur.

"Definitely," Aria replied, her heart soaring. As she stepped out of the car and waved goodbye, she couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and hope for what lay ahead.

Walking into her apartment, Aria couldn't shake the memory of the kiss from her mind. She felt a sense of lightness, as if the weight of her previous encounters with Joshua was finally starting to lift. For the first time in a long while, she felt like she was moving forward, ready to embrace whatever came next.