Inequalities [Lookism X Reader]

SIXTEEN: PACEBOOK STAR

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As another day wrapped up, you decided to spend some time with Zack, noticing how distracted he seemed lately. He had been zoning out frequently, and he even stumbled a bit while walking. You figured he must be worried about Doo and thought some company might help lighten his mood. But you were concerned for him too.

Meanwhile, Daniel couldn't help feeling a little jealous. It had only been two days since you'd spent time together, but he missed your walks, your conversations, and your corny jokes. He sighed to himself, feeling a bit lovesick and almost embarrassed at how much he missed you.

While he was lost in his thoughts, you snuck up behind him, gently placing a hand on his shoulder. "Hey, Dandan, let's walk home together!" You said, grinning. He jumped slightly, startled by your sudden presence, and blinked in surprise. Was he dreaming? He'd been thinking about you only moments ago, and here you were, standing right in front of him, inviting him to walk home.

For a moment, Daniel was too shocked to react, and his face was somewhere between disbelief and relief. You raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by his reaction. Realizing he must've looked a little strange, Daniel scratched the back of his head and managed to ask, "Uh... Y/n? I thought you were going to hang out with Zack today?"

You let out a small sigh. "He said he wanted some time alone," you replied.

"Oh, is that so?" he muttered, trying to keep his tone neutral, but inside he was thrilled.

"Yeah," you replied, hands tucked into your pockets as you absentmindedly kicked a small rock on the ground. "Maybe I'll hang out with Danny instead." You thought aloud, remembering Little Daniel and feeling a pang of guilt for not visiting him lately. Plus, you knew he worked a night shift now.

Daniel stopped in his tracks, barely able to hide his expression. Why would you choose his old self over him? The thought gnawed at him, and before he could stop himself, he blurted out, "Y/n, why don't you want to hang out with me? Are you tired of seeing my face every single day?"

The words spilled out, and he froze as they echoed in his head, realizing he'd accidentally voiced his insecurities. Your eyes widened, surprised by his sudden admission.

"Daniel," you said, smiling softly, "I'll never get tired of you, silly."

Daniel froze, cheeks turning red as he processed your words. His face was a flustered mess, and he quickly covered it with his hands, trying to hide his embarrassment. You chuckled, finding his reaction endearing. A few couples passing by noticed, and some of the girls nudged their partners to be more romantic, causing the guys to sigh.

"You look adorable when you're like this," you added, which only made him blush more.

"Y/n! Don't just say stuff like that out of nowhere!" he huffed, though a part of him secretly loved it. A few moments later, the two of you were back to your usual banter, the earlier embarrassment forgotten.

As you walked, a mischievous idea came to mind. "Hey, last one to the convenience store has to buy ice cream!" you challenged suddenly, and without waiting, you took off running.

For a moment, Daniel just stared, caught off guard by your sudden game. But then a competitive glint sparked in his eyes, and he bolted after you.

DANIEL'S POV

"Ah, crap," I muttered as a cool breeze hit my face, tousling my hair. I watched her dash ahead, running as fast as she could, her laughter trailing behind like music in the air. Honestly, we were probably too old to be playing this kind of game, but if I was playing it with her, I didn't mind one bit.