Time Machine (editing)

5- ✓

The final competitor bowed gracefully, signaling the end of the dance battle. 

The crowd shuffled towards the exits, their energy decreasing with the dying music.
It tuns out that we attended a dance competition, and Rude Boy was actually competing, not just dancing.  The award ceremony happened, placing him in the second place. While hadn't taken the top prize, the respectable second place hung around his neck, a silver glint against his dark shirt.

"Alright, Rude Boy," I said, clapping him on the shoulder. "Didn't expect that. Second place? Wow, that's impressive!" I Can I see your medal?" I said and he took it out of his neck, frowning.

He flinched at the nickname, his brow furrowing. "Rude?" he muttered, tossing it into my hand.

I examined the medal, a grin splitting my face. "Seriously, these moves were sick! Who knew you could bust a groove like that?" My laughter echoed in the emptying venue, but he just stared, a bewildered expression etched on his face.

"I don't even know why I'm talking to you, really." He mumbled, shoving his hands into his pockets.

I shrugged, unfazed. "Even if you weren't, there's no escaping me. I have to keep my eye on you. Like, literally." My voice held a half-serious, half-playful tone , but his grimace deepened at what I said.

"I don't even know you. Why would you have to keep following me? Weird.." He raised a brow at me and I awkwardly laughed, trying to save face.

"Yes...  Um... just don't over think it." I gulped and he still looked at me weirdly.

I got up and undusted my trousers. "Alright, Rude Boy," I said, stretching the name for emphasis. "I gotta head out. Had a great time, excellent, I might say, even if you were a little... hostile."

A flicker of something akin to a frown crossed his features, barely perceptible in the dim light. "Isn't it too soon? I mean..." he trailed off, scratching the back of his head.

I couldn't resist a playful jab. "Aww, are you gonna miss me?"

A blush crept up his neck, staining his cheeks a rosy hue. "Well..." I mumbled, looking away, "Pretty boy, I have news for you. What if I told you I came here specifically for you?" I said and he was visibly confused. I shook my head and slightly smiled.  

"Okay, boy, I have to go. Like, now. I had a great time by the way." I said, and I swear I saw I frown.

"What...?" He said and I chuckled.

I shook my head and started leaving.

"Wait! Where can I find you?" He asked me and I smiled.
"You want to see me again?" I asked back and he nodded.

"You seem..." There was a small pause and continued. "interesting. I haven't met interesting people lately."

I chuckled, entertained. Shaking my head playfully, I started to walk away. "You'll see me again, rude boy. Just keep your eyes open." I greeted him and I saw him frown again.

Leaving him with that cryptic farewell, I disappeared into the labyrinthine streets of Seoul, a single, enigmatic smile playing on my lips.

19 days left

After leaving the alley, I roamed around Seoul. It wasn't a very wise idea because I had totally forgotten how to go back to the hotel. Even though I was supposed to speak and read Korean miraculously, I didn't notice the street name, the name of the hotel or anything else that could help me identify anything. 

Apparently, one hour after, I remembered a street sign, and started making my way towards the hotel. It wasn't the easiest thing ever but eventually I made it to my destination.

I plopped onto the bed and random thoughts came up. Soon after, the thoughts went away and sleep came. 

In order to look cool, I'd made a stupid decision. How was I supposed to find him again in this city? Seoul wasn't exactly a tiny city – acting like I'd bump into him on every block was a ridiculous thought. Slapping my forehead in frustration, I got off the bed, washed my face, ate something and began exploring the city. 

I left the hotel and wandered aimlessly, my earlier bravado fading with each passing street.

I went around the places we had been to yesterday, but there was no sign of him. I looked around at teenagers having fun, people in groups gossiping, guys working out, but nothing. It seemed like that guy is not here. Would I ever find him again? After a while, exhaustion came up to me and I stopped, letting out a groan. "I will never find him again."

Suddenly, a pair of hands playfully covered my eyes. My reflexes kicked in – I grabbed the hands instantly, my heart hammering a frantic rhythm against my ribs.

"You were right," a familiar voice chuckled. "Seems all I have to do is look around a bit."

The voice sent a jolt of recognition through me. I yanked the hands away, spinning around to find Rude Boy standing there, a hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. His earlier hostility seemed to have melted away, replaced by something...unexpected.

"Hello to you too, rude boy!" I exclaimed, surprised by the warmth in his voice. I looked his clothes and they were way different than what he wore yesterday.  "Look at you! All dressed up."

He was a vision in color, a stark contrast to his usual darker attire. Brightly colored t-shirt peeking out from under denim overalls – a look that somehow managed to be both effortlessly cool and endearingly playful. Overalls were my guilty pleasure, and I liked the way he wore one.

"I love overalls!" I blurted out, unable to contain my enthusiasm. "I bought one yesterday, but I figured I'd wear it tomorrow." I said and coughed, trying to make it seem like it wasn't a big deal.

A genuine smile spread across his face, crinkling the corners of his eyes. This sudden shift in his demeanor left me breathless. Maybe this mission wasn't going to be as difficult as I'd initially thought.