If I Could Dance With You Again

IICDWYA: 27

Chapter 27: Navigating the Unforeseen Waters of Affection

Aaliyah found herself in an unforeseen predicament. It all began with an innocent question, borne out of curiosity. She had asked Soonyoung, the guy who had recently captured her attention, if he liked her. The question itself was simple, direct, and straightforward. Yet, the aftermath of her inquiry left her grappling with an unexpected outcome and a whirlwind of emotions.

She had not anticipated Soonyoung's response. In her mind, she had prepared herself for a polite decline or perhaps a vague answer that would leave her questioning his feelings. What she did not foresee was his agreement. He likes her. The words, so simple yet profound, echoed in her mind. She was taken aback, caught off guard by his candid admission.

Now, Aaliyah faced a quandary she had not prepared for. How was she supposed to talk to him now? The dynamic between them had shifted, and she felt a sense of awkwardness that was hard to shake off. That day she asked him was a disaster for the lady who was just hoping for a seamless day. She did not even know how she survived the day with him. 

Now, she can't even pull herself to face him. Because every time she saw him, an inexplicable embarrassment washed over her. It was as if the very act of asking had unveiled a vulnerability she wasn't ready to confront.

But why was she embarrassed? She had done nothing wrong. Asking someone about their feelings was a natural part of human interaction, a step towards understanding and connection. Yet, the embarrassment lingered, an intangible weight on her shoulders. It wasn't the question itself that troubled her, but the vulnerability it represented. She had opened herself up, exposed her emotions, and now there was no going back.

In the days that followed, Aaliyah found herself avoiding Soonyoung. She would make up reason so that she will not stay long with him. However, no matter how hard she tries, she also has a responsibility with him. The guy paid her services. She needed to comply.

Aaliyah however would see him from a distance sometimes when they finish sessions, and her heart would race, a mix of excitement and trepidation. She also wanted to talk to him, to explore the possibilities that his agreement had opened up. But every time she mustered the courage to approach him, the embarrassment resurged, pulling her back into her shell.

Ruby noticed the change in her demeanor. She saw the way she would glance at Soonyoung and then quickly look away, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. She encouraged her to talk to him, to take the next step. But Aaliyah hesitated, caught in a web of her own making.

"What happened?" Ruby visited her in her office.

Ruby was looking at the lady full of questions. She knew the lady very well. "What did you do? I know you and you look so different, act and talk differently," Ruby was giving her a glanced of madness and curiosity. Days after Aaliyah's quick trip with Soonyoung, she changed.

"You ended your session with Soonyoung early again. The guy looked devastated when he was going out of the session hall. You looked relieved now, but I know you are hiding something," Ruby summarizing what she just observed.

"Nothing," Aaliyah responded while fixing her things.

"Aaliyah. Stop lying to me. You know I hate that attitude of yours – acting like you are fine and you are not. That was so bad for yourself in general," Ruby was scolding her.

Aaliyah also knew that Ruby would not stop bugging her, "I asked him."

Ruby's eyes widened with curiosity. "You asked him what?" she pressed, leaning in closer.

Aaliyah took a deep breath, feeling the weight of her emotions pressing down on her. "I asked him if he liked me," she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. "And he said yes."

"And what?"

Aaliyah was embarrassed repeating what she just said. She gave the fierce lady a puppy eyes. Ruby then pulled a chair and went closer to Aaliyah. 

"Tell me," Ruby demanded softly.

Aaliyah almost whispered again, "He agreed."

Ruby's expression softened as she absorbed Aaliyah's words. "So that's why you've been acting so strange," she said gently. "You're worried about what this means for you both."

Nodding, Aaliyah felt a rush of relief at finally sharing her burden. "I don't know what to do, Rosie. It's affecting everything, even my job. I can't dance properly with him without thinking about how he feels."

Ruby placed a comforting hand on Aaliyah's arm. "It's normal to feel overwhelmed, especially when emotions are involved. But you need to find a way to balance your feelings with your responsibilities."

Aaliyah sighed, the stress evident in her eyes. "I just never expected this. It's like a whole new problem I never saw coming."

Ruby smiled reassuringly. "Take it one step at a time. Talk to Soonyoung, be honest about your feelings, and see where it takes you. Don't let this stress overshadow the potential for something beautiful."

Aaliyah nodded, appreciating Ruby's support. She knew she had to face her fears, just as she had faced the initial embarrassment. With a newfound sense of resolve, she decided to confront the situation head-on.

But Aaliyah also decided she couldn't. She could not confront Soonyoung yet since it might affect Soonyoung's job. She just remembered that the guy was an idol. He is a celebrity, and she is not someone who could date someone like her even if she wants him, too.

Besides, she wasn't focused on looking for a love life and she told Ruby about it. Ruby understood, nodding thoughtfully.

"You have to do what's best for you, Aaliyah. Take your time and don't force anything," Ruby advised.

"How about we take a break and do something fun?" Ruby suggested, her eyes lighting up with an idea. "Let's go on a shopping spree. It's my way of helping you relieve stress."

Aaliyah chuckled softly, her tension easing at the thought. "You know, that doesn't sound like a bad idea."

Even Aaliyah who was a girl who would say she would just save the money, agreed to her best friend. 

The bustling streets and vibrant shops provided a welcome distraction from her worries. Ruby's enthusiastic energy was contagious, and Aaliyah found herself laughing and enjoying the moment, her stresses temporarily forgotten. They tried on clothes, admired accessories, and indulged in delicious treats at quaint cafes.

As they wandered through the stores, Ruby's cheerful chatter and unwavering support lifted Aaliyah's spirits. It was a reminder that she didn't have to bear her burdens alone – she had friends who cared for her deeply.

By the time they returned home, laden with bags and shared memories, Aaliyah felt lighter. The shopping spree had been more than a distraction; it had been a balm to her soul, reminding her of the simple joys in life.

The next day, Aaliyah hoped that she could find a new solution on how to avoid Soonyoung again. Despite the temporary relief she'd found in her friend's company, the reality of her situation weighed heavily on her mind. She knew that ignoring her feelings forever wasn't an option, yet the thought of facing Soonyoung still filled her with trepidation.

As she mulled over her dilemma, she decided to focus on her hobbies, anything to keep her mind occupied and away from the confusion that thoughts of Soonyoung stirred within her. 

Let's cross the bridge when we get there, she thought before sleeping again. 

Woud it be so bad, Aaliyah? - AUthornim