Chapter 12

It was the weekend now, and Nayeon was in a daze.

So much had changed since that lunch with Jeongyeon. The flirting. The bantering. The way they’d agreed—almost too easily—to just be friends. Exchanging personal phone numbers like it was nothing. You could say everything between them had shifted after that.

And it kind of felt nice. Like, really nice. But Nayeon was conflicted.

She didn’t know where this was going, didn’t know what Jeongyeon’s intentions really were. She still wasn’t sure she believed what the girl had told her that day—that she just wanted to be in her presence. That sounded ridiculous. Too sincere. Too… much. And yet—

It wasn’t the only thing sitting weird with her. Chaeyoung had been off.

Nayeon had noticed it almost immediately after Chaeyoung agreed to have lunch with Tzuyu—she became quiet, distracted, fidgety in a way that didn’t feel like her. And she still hadn’t said anything. Not to her, not to Mina. Which, honestly, was more concerning than if she had just complained about it like usual.

Nayeon knew it had something to do with that girl, and she knew Chaeyoung had gone to that lunch by now. And whatever happened there… it hadn’t been nothing.

She should probably check in. Actually ask. Push a little. But every time she tried to focus on it—Her thoughts slipped right back to Jeongyeon.

They’d been talking almost every day now. Texting about random thoughts that popped into their heads. Complaining about work. Sending stupid little updates for no real reason at all. Sometimes they’d end up hanging out after work, grabbing food together, even doing mundane things like grocery shopping.

That part still shocked her. Nayeon had never really done this with anyone. Okay—maybe she had, a long time ago. But it had been a while. Long enough that this felt unfamiliar.

She kept telling herself they were just friends. Just like Mina. Just like Chaeyoung. But it wasn’t the same.

There was something different about Jeongyeon, about the space she took up in Nayeon’s life now. And that difference was exactly what made her uneasy.

She didn’t know where things were going. And that uncertainty sat with her, lingering quietly, all weekend long.

Now here Nayeon was, sitting across from Jeongyeon at a Korean barbecue place, the warm hum of conversation and sizzling meat filling the air between them. They were getting dinner together—again. At this point, it didn’t even feel unusual. It was just… what they did now.

Nayeon was dressed down, but not really. She never truly dressed down. She’d put on a pair of high-waisted black jeans that fit her perfectly and a white T-shirt that cropped just slightly at the bottom, showing a hint of her toned stomach whenever she moved. Simple. Clean. Effortless. Or at least, that’s what she told herself.

She felt good. Confident. Comfortable. Good for the occasion. She glanced across the table—and immediately regretted it.

Jeongyeon looked good. Annoyingly so. Relaxed in that effortless way she always had, like she hadn’t thought twice about what she wore but still managed to look put together. Nayeon caught herself staring for half a second too long before snapping her gaze back down to the grill between them, watching the meat sizzle like it suddenly required her full attention.

Get it together, she told herself. The air between them felt easy. Familiar. There was no pressure, no awkwardness—just the quiet comfort of being there together, side by side, letting the night unfold at its own pace.

And somehow, that felt more dangerous than anything else.

Jeongyeon was dressed in a soft gray turtleneck sweater, the fabric rising close to her chin and hugging her neck just enough to look intentional. It fit her loosely through the torso, relaxed but flattering, like she hadn’t tried too hard—and that somehow made it worse. She wore high-waisted black jeans that sat snug around her hips, accentuating her frame in a way that felt almost unfair.

As they settled in, Jeongyeon slipped off her black shawl jacket and draped it beside her, casual and unbothered, like she didn’t realize the effect she was having.

Elegant. That was the word that hit Nayeon all at once. Elegant, but effortless.

And for reasons Nayeon couldn’t quite explain—or didn’t want to—the sight of her made something spark deep in her chest. A quiet, unsettling warmth that spread before she could stop it. She shifted slightly in her seat, suddenly hyper-aware of herself, of the heat from the grill, of how close Jeongyeon felt across the table.

Why does she look like that? Nayeon wondered, annoyed at herself more than anything.

She exhaled slowly, forcing her attention back to the food, to the plates, to literally anything else. But no matter how hard she tried, that flicker inside her refused to die down. And that scared her a little more than she cared to admit.

Nayeon finally breaks the comfortable silence, leaning back in her chair, arms crossed—but her foot nudges Jeongyeon’s lightly under the table like she didn’t even think about it. “So,” she says, voice dripping with mock formality, “how do you feel about your very important trip to China?”

Jeongyeon looks up from the grill, caught slightly off guard by the tone—then smirks. “So?” she echoes, amused. “I mean… I’m excited. I’ve never been before.” She shrugs, flipping a piece of meat. “We leave tomorrow. Gotta head to the airport with Momo.”

Something in Nayeon’s expression shifts immediately. “Oh,” she says, dragging the word out, eyes dropping to the grill. “I bet you’re, like, fucking stoked.”

She pokes at her food a little too aggressively. “You know those business trip lotteries are totally rigged, right?” she adds. “I’m honestly surprised you guys even won.”

Jeongyeon glances up at her, eyebrow raised, clearly entertained. “Wow. You sound bitter.”

“I’m not bitter,” Nayeon snaps immediately, kicking her foot against Jeongyeon’s this time—harder. “I’m just saying. It’s suspicious.”

Jeongyeon huffs a laugh, adjusting the grill. “Maybe it was just luck.”

“Yeah, okay,” Nayeon mutters. “Or the universe just has favorites.”

Jeongyeon watches her for a second—really watches her—then leans back slightly, smirk deepening. “…are you mad I’ll be gone?”

Nayeon looks up fast. “Why would I care?”

Jeongyeon doesn’t even hesitate. “Because you like me.”

Nayeon chokes on her drink. “Oh my— you’re actually insane.”

Jeongyeon grins, completely unbothered. “You didn’t say I was wrong.”

Nayeon narrows her eyes, but there’s a smile tugging at her lips now despite herself. “You’re unbelievable.”

“Mhm,” Jeongyeon hums, satisfied, turning back to the grill.

A beat passes. Then she exhales, shaking her head slightly. “Honestly, though… the trip would be a lot more exciting if I didn’t have to deal with that old man the entire time.”

Nayeon groans immediately. “Oh my god, not this again.”

“Yes, this again,” Jeongyeon shoots back, already getting worked up. “You don’t understand. Our manger, Mr. Lee is actually the worst human being alive.”

“I do understand,” Nayeon says, laughing. “You’ve complained about him, like, five times already.”

“Because it keeps getting worse,” Jeongyeon insists, pointing at her with her chopsticks. “They literally had me and Momo fill out forms this week. Like—actual documentation.”

Nayeon pauses. “…for what?”

Jeongyeon leans in slightly, lowering her voice like she’s sharing something scandalous. “They’re trying to build a case to get him out.”

Nayeon blinks. “…you’re serious?”

“Dead serious,” Jeongyeon nods. “Apparently the department head is already over his shit. They just need enough complaints on record.”

Nayeon lets out a soft, impressed laugh. “Wow. So you’re actively participating in this man’s downfall.”

Jeongyeon shrugs, unapologetic. “He needs to go. I’m just helping the process.”

Nayeon shakes her head, smiling. “That’s actually kind of evil.”

“Thank you,” Jeongyeon says, pleased.

A small pause settles between them again—but it’s lighter now. Then—Nayeon glances at her, quieter this time. “Still… it’s gonna be a long trip.”

Jeongyeon looks up.”…yeah,” she says.

Nayeon looks away quickly, grabbing her drink. “Not that it matters,” she mutters.

Jeongyeon’s smile softens—just a little. “Right,” she says.

Under the table, her foot nudges Nayeon’s again. This time—Nayeon doesn’t pull away. Jeongyeon’s phone suddenly buzzes against the table. She glances down, chuckling softly as she unlocks it. “It’s Momo,” she says casually.

Nayeon barely reacts, focused on the grill, but her ears absolutely do. Jeongyeon looks up again, grin widening. “She’s already complaining. Says she’s gonna be miserable not seeing Mina for a whole week. Apparently those two are together hanging out right now.”

Nayeon hums. “Of course those two are hanging out. ” She shrugs. “They’ve been… whatever. Hitting it off good.”

Jeongyeon tilts her head, studying her. “You sound really unfazed.”

“I am unfazed,” Nayeon replies quickly. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

Jeongyeon just smiles—easy, relaxed—and then, far too smoothly, adds, “I mean… I think we’re hitting it off pretty well too. You could say.”

Nayeon freezes mid-bite. “…What?” She blinks at her, narrowing her eyes slightly. “I don’t know what you mean by that.”

Jeongyeon lifts both hands innocently, leaning back in her seat. “I didn’t mean it like that,” she says, way too casually. “I’m not insinuating anything.”

“Well—” Nayeon starts, then stops, suddenly very aware of herself. Heat creeps up her neck. “We’re just friends, remember?”

Jeongyeon tilts her head, brows knitting in mock confusion. “I never said otherwise,” she replies. A beat. Then, softer— “I don’t know why you’re getting so flustered.”

“I’m not flustered,” Nayeon snaps immediately. Too fast.

Jeongyeon hums. “Sure.”

Nayeon glares at her for a second—then exhales sharply, setting her chopsticks down. “…You do this every time.”

Jeongyeon pauses. “…Do what?”

Nayeon gestures vaguely between them, frustrated. “This. This—thing.”

Jeongyeon leans forward slightly, curious now. “What thing?”

Nayeon hesitates—then just says it. “Every time we hang out,” she says, voice lower now, “you get all… weird.”

Jeongyeon blinks. “Weird?”

“Yes, weird,” Nayeon insists. “You look at me like you’re about to say something—and then you don’t. Or you get quiet. Or—” She stops herself.

Jeongyeon’s watching her too closely now. “…Or what?”

Nayeon presses her lips together. Then— “…Or you look like you’re about to kiss me.”

Silence hits them. Jeongyeon blinks once. Then lets out a small laugh. “…That’s crazy.”

Nayeon stares at her. “Is it?”

Jeongyeon shrugs, picking up her drink like she’s completely unbothered. “I think you’re projecting.”

Nayeon’s jaw drops. “Projecting?”

“Yeah,” Jeongyeon says simply. “I think you’re the one acting like that.”

Nayeon scoffs. “Oh, please.”

“I’m serious,” Jeongyeon continues, now fully committing. “You’re the one who gets quiet. And looks at me like you’re thinking too hard about something.”

Nayeon leans forward, incredulous. “That is not true.”

Jeongyeon raises an eyebrow. “It is.”

Nayeon shakes her head, laughing under her breath. “You’re actually insane.”

Jeongyeon smiles. “Maybe.”

A beat passes. And then—just for a second—her gaze drops. To Nayeon’s lips. It’s quick. Subtle. But Nayeon sees it.

“…You just did it again.”

Jeongyeon looks back up immediately. “Did what?”

Nayeon points at her, completely vindicated. “That! Right there!”

Jeongyeon laughs, shaking her head. “You’re unbelievable.”

“I’m right,” Nayeon insists.

“You’re dramatic,” Jeongyeon corrects.

Nayeon leans back in her chair, crossing her arms. “…We’re just friends.”

Jeongyeon nods easily. “Yeah.” A beat. Then— “Just friends who get dinner together? Multiple times a week?”

Nayeon narrows her eyes. “That’s normal.”

“Just friends who text late at night?”

“…Also normal.”

“Just friends who—” Jeongyeon pauses, smirking slightly, “—analyze each other’s eye contact patterns?”

Nayeon glares. “Shut up.”

Jeongyeon laughs softly. Then, more casually—”You know you don’t even believe that, right?”

Nayeon scoffs. “I do.”

Jeongyeon tilts her head slightly. “Okay. Then what do you think Mina and Momo are?”

Nayeon barely hesitates. “They’re obviously not just friends.”

Jeongyeon hums. “Yeah.” A beat passes. Then, casually—”You heard about what happened with them, right? After work the other day.”

Nayeon gives her a look. “Obviously.”

Of course she knows. Mina told her and Chaeyoung everything. Jeongyeon watches her for a second longer. Then—”So what makes us different?”

Nayeon opens her mouth—Then stops. Because she doesn’t have an answer. The silence stretches. Jeongyeon’s gaze doesn’t move. “…Exactly,” she says quietly.

Nayeon looks away first, jaw tightening. “…We’re still just friends.”

Jeongyeon lets out a short breath, almost like a laugh. “We’re not any better than them.”

Nayeon scoffs immediately. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Yeah?” Jeongyeon leans back slightly. “You don’t?”

“No,” Nayeon says, too quick. “I really don’t.”

Jeongyeon just looks at her. Then—”You touched me.”

Nayeon freezes. “…You’re so annoying,” she mutters.

“You did,” Jeongyeon continues, like she’s stating a fact. “Multiple times.”

“It was a joke,” Nayeon shoots back, already flushing. “I was just messing with you.”

Jeongyeon doesn’t buy it. “You don’t grab your friends like that as a joke.”

Nayeon points at her immediately. “You touched me too.”

“Because you started it.”

“That doesn’t count.”

“It does count.”

Nayeon exhales sharply, shaking her head. “You’re being dramatic.”

Jeongyeon watches her for a second. Then—”…You liked it.”

Nayeon freezes. “…What?”

Jeongyeon shrugs slightly, like it’s nothing. “You heard me.”

“That’s not—” Nayeon scoffs, but it comes out weaker than she wants. “You’re so full of shit.”

Jeongyeon tilts her head. “Am I?”

Nayeon’s jaw tightens. “…You liked it when I touched you too,” she shoots back quickly, like she needs to even the score.

There was a beat. Jeongyeon doesn’t answer. Which is answer enough. Nayeon huffs out a breath, looking away. “At least I got a reaction out of you.”

Jeongyeon lets out a quiet, disbelieving laugh. “…You’re insane.”

“Says you.”

There’s a pause. Something lingers. Too long. Too obvious. Jeongyeon leans back slightly, eyes still on her. “…So much for not messing with anyone at work.”

Nayeon’s eyes snap back to hers. Under the table—her foot presses sharply against Jeongyeon’s leg. A warning. “Oh, shut the fuck up,” she mutters. “It didn’t even count. Our clothes were still on the whole time.”

Jeongyeon blinks. Glances down for half a second—Then back up at her. She tilts her head slightly, lips twitching. “…Were they?”

Nayeon freezes.”…What?”

Jeongyeon shrugs, trying—and failing—not to laugh. “I don’t know. Were they?”

“They were,” Nayeon snaps immediately.

Jeongyeon hums, like she’s unconvinced. “I’m just asking.”

“You’re so annoying,” Nayeon mutters—and then, under the table, she kicks her. Hard.

Jeongyeon lets out a quiet laugh, shoulders shaking. “Ow—”

“They were on, you asshole,” Nayeon insists.

Jeongyeon grins now. “Okay. If you say so.”

Another kick. Then another. Less precise this time. More like she’s just taking it out on her. Jeongyeon is fully laughing now, trying to keep it quiet, leaning back in her chair. “Alright, alright—”

“Shut up,” Nayeon mutters, but there’s no real heat behind it anymore.

And then—It shifts. The movement slows. Her foot doesn’t pull away this time. Instead—it lingers. Presses lightly. Then slides—just a little. Softer. Intentional.

Jeongyeon’s laughter fades. Her breath catches for half a second. “…What are you doing?”

“Nothing.”

“That’s not nothing.”

Nayeon doesn’t move her foot. If anything, it presses a little more. Jeongyeon exhales through her nose, fighting a smile now. “…That’s your definition of ‘just friends’?”

Nayeon goes quiet. And for a second—she almost says something real. You can see it. Right there. But then—She pulls back. Physically and emotionally. Foot retreating. Eyes dropping. “…We’re still just friends,” she says again, more stubborn this time.

Jeongyeon studies her. Sees right through it. “…You really don’t tell them, do you?”

Nayeon’s eyes flick back to her. “Tell who?”

“Mina. Chaeyoung.” A beat. “What you actually do with me now.”

Nayeon scoffs. “There’s nothing to tell.”

Jeongyeon’s expression doesn’t change. “…You’re full of shit.”

“Excuse me?” Nayeon snaps.

“You heard me.” There’s a beat. Then Jeongyeon tilts her head slightly, voice quieter now—but sharper. “What if I told them?”

Nayeon goes still. “…Do it,” she says, lifting her chin. “I don’t care.”

She absolutely cares. Jeongyeon can see it all over her face. And that’s what makes her let it go. For now. Nayeon crosses her arms, doubling down, looking anywhere but at her. “…We’re still just friends Jeong.”

Jeongyeon just watches her. Not arguing. Not pushing. Just—knowing. And she nods. “Yeah.” A beat. “…for now.”

Nayeon’s head snaps back toward her. “What does that mean?”

Jeongyeon just smiles. “Nothing.”

And goes back to eating like she didn’t just say that. Nayeon stares at her. Heart doing something very stupid in her chest. “…You’re so annoying.”

Jeongyeon grins. “I know.”

Nayeon finally looks at her, eyes narrowing. “What game are you actually trying to play?”

Jeongyeon leans back in her chair with a quiet sigh, shaking her head. “Here you go again.”

“No, seriously,” Nayeon presses, leaning forward now. “Whatever bullshit you’re pulling—I’m not falling for it.”

Jeongyeon watches her for a second. Really watches her. Then—”…you think I’m playing a game?” she asks, quieter now.

Nayeon doesn’t hesitate. “I know you are.”

Jeongyeon lets out a small breath through her nose, almost like a laugh—but not quite. Then she sits up a little, elbows resting on the table. “No,” she says simply. “I’m not.”

Nayeon’s expression tightens. “Yeah, okay.”

Jeongyeon tilts her head slightly. “You want me to say something, right?”

That makes Nayeon pause. Just for a second. “…what?” she says, more defensive now.

Jeongyeon doesn’t look away. “You want me to admit it,” she says calmly. “So you don’t have to.”

Nayeon’s jaw tightens. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Jeongyeon hums, unconvinced. Then—she shrugs lightly. “Fine,” she says. And there’s a beat. “I’m attracted to you.”

Silence hits them. It lands. Jeongyeon doesn’t break eye contact. Doesn’t soften it. Doesn’t take it back. “And you’re attracted to me too,” she adds, just as calm.

Nayeon scoffs immediately—too fast. “You’re so full of yourself.”

“Am I?” Jeongyeon asks, one eyebrow lifting slightly.

Nayeon opens her mouth—then stops. Because she doesn’t have anything to say. And she hates that.

Jeongyeon leans back again, like she didn’t just drop that in the middle of the table. “So no,” she adds lightly, reaching for her drink. “I’m not playing anything.” A small pause. “You just don’t like that you can’t control it.”

That—That hits. Nayeon’s expression shifts immediately, irritation flashing across her face. “That’s not—”

She cuts herself off, jaw tightening. God, she really needed something to take the edge off. Her eyes drift to the bottle sitting off to the side of the table, half-forgotten among the plates.

Soju. Strawberry-flavored, too. Alcohol. Perfect.

Nayeon grabs it without much thought, suddenly remembering she’d ordered it when they first sat down. “Whatever. I don’t want to talk about this anymore.” She scoffs as she twists the cap open, the soft pop sounding way louder in her head than it should.

Nayeon glances at Jeongyeon. “You want some?”

Jeongyeon hesitates. “I don’t know… I have to drive after this.”

Nayeon immediately pouts, leaning her chin into her palm. “Not even a little?”

Jeongyeon clicks her tongue, eyeing her. “You’re dangerous, you know that?” But after a beat, she sighs. “Fine. Okay. Just a little.”

Nayeon grins, already pouring. They clink their small glasses together and take a sip. The sweetness hits first, smooth and easy, and Nayeon feels the tension in her shoulders loosen almost instantly. She hums softly, pleased. Yeah… that definitely helped. Nayeon swirls the soju in her glass, then looks up at Jeongyeon. “You know,” she says casually, “you’re really persistent.”

Jeongyeon lifts a brow, a slow smirk tugging at her lips. “Persistent? What do you mean?”

Nayeon squints at her. “You know exactly what I mean. The whole friends thing.” She exhales, then adds, a little more honestly, “I don’t know… I’m kind of a lot. I’m actually shocked you’ve stuck around this long.”

Jeongyeon blinks. “Wow. Really?”

“Seriously,” Nayeon says. “I thought you’d forget about me by now. Or get tired of me and disappear.”

Jeongyeon just smiles, soft and maddening. “I told you already. I like being in your presence.”

Nayeon clicks her tongue, unconvinced. “So what’s your play here, then? What do you really want?”

Jeongyeon exhales through her nose, already annoyed. “This again?”

Nayeon shrugs, taking another sip. “What? I’m just asking.”

“No, you’re not,” Jeongyeon says, sharper now. “You keep asking the same question like you’re waiting for a different answer.”

Nayeon rolls her eyes. “Maybe you’re just not saying it.”

Jeongyeon pauses and looks at her. “…saying what?”

Nayeon lifts her glass, avoiding her gaze for half a second—then looks right back at her, emboldened now. “I don’t know,” she says, voice lighter than the tension sitting underneath it. “Maybe that you want something more. Or that you just wanna—”

She cuts herself off. Too late. Jeongyeon leans forward slightly. “Wanna what?”

Nayeon huffs, already flustered, already halfway into the bottle again. “You know what.”

“No,” Jeongyeon says, calm. “I don’t.”

Nayeon stares at her. Then—because she’s stubborn, and a little drunk, and absolutely not thinking straight— “Fine,” she mutters. And then she says it. The words coming out as a shout from her chest.

“That you wanna fuck me!”

Silence hits their table. It drops between them instantly. A couple of people’s eyes flicker towards them slightly, then away again, like they didn’t hear that.

Jeongyeon doesn’t react right away. She just looks at her. Slow. Steady. Then— “…do you want me to?” she asks.

Nayeon chokes. “What—no—I—”

Jeongyeon tilts her head, watching her unravel. “Because you keep asking like that’s what you want to hear.”

Nayeon’s face burns. “I’m not—”

“You are,” Jeongyeon cuts in, still calm, still controlled. “You want me to say it so you don’t have to.”

That shuts her up. Jeongyeon leans back slightly, studying her like she’s figured her out. “I already told you I’m attracted to you,” she adds. “I don’t know what else you want from me.”

Nayeon’s grip tightens around her glass. “You’re so—”

“Ridiculous?” Jeongyeon offers.

“Yeah,” Nayeon mutters, immediately grabbing the bottle again. “You’re ridiculous.”

Jeongyeon watches her pour more, unimpressed. “You’re gonna regret that.”

“I’m already regretting this conversation,” Nayeon shoots back.

A beat passes. Then—Jeongyeon suddenly stands. Nayeon blinks. “What are you—”

Jeongyeon leans forward—over the table, over the grill, close enough that Nayeon freezes completely. Her breath catches. Eyes wide. For a split second—it really looks like she’s about to kiss her.

Nayeon stops breathing, and panics. Jeongyeon’s gaze flicks to her lips—then past her. She reaches across the table, and grabs the tongs. “…you were about to burn that,” she says casually.

And just like that—she pulls back. Sits down like nothing happened. Nayeon is still frozen.”…you’re actually insane,” she breathes.

Jeongyeon glances at her, unimpressed. “You’re the one who said it.”

“That is not—” Nayeon gestures wildly. “That is not what that was!”

Jeongyeon shrugs. “Looked like it.”

Nayeon glares at her, face still flushed. “You do shit like that on purpose.”

“You say dumb things on purpose,” Jeongyeon shoots back.

“Oh my god.”

“And you overthink everything.”

“And you’re weird,” Nayeon snaps.

Jeongyeon scoffs. “I’m not weird.”

“You are!” Nayeon points at her. “You say things like—like—” she struggles for a second, then lands on it— “like calling me wife material out of nowhere!”

A beat passes. Jeongyeon blinks.”…what?”

Nayeon’s mind is spinning as she leans forward, glaring now. “Don’t do that. You know exactly what I’m talking about.”

Jeongyeon leans back slightly, amused. “I really don’t know what your talking about.”

“Bullshit! Come on,” Nayeon says, rolling her eyes. “It was that comment you made.”

“What comment?”

Nayeon stares at her, like she’s insane. “When we had lunch together the first time! You literally said I’m wife material.”

Jeongyeon blinks. “Oh….right…. I said that?”

“Yes, dumbass,” Nayeon shoots back, though she’s smiling now.

Jeongyeon clears her throat and leans forward as she bites back a smile now, her elbows resting on the table. Underneath, Nayeon suddenly feels Jeongyeon’s leg press against hers—deliberate, slow, impossible to ignore.

“I meant it,” Jeongyeon says quietly. “Like…. seriously.”

Nayeon freezes, heart slamming against her ribs. She holds Jeongyeon’s gaze, searching for a joke that never comes. “Why?” she asks.

Jeongyeon shrugs, still too close. “I don’t know. I think a lot of people are marriage material.” A beat. “Hell, even me. I wouldn’t mind getting married someday.”

That only makes things worse. Nayeon swallows, completely unable to read her now. Between the warmth creeping through her body and the steady pressure of Jeongyeon’s leg against hers, it feels like the alcohol has finally caught up to her—and taken her balance with it.

Surprisingly, the rest of the conversation they have doesn’t spiral into anything too serious. Of course, the bantering and flirting never stops—Nayeon laughing at Jeongyeon’s teasing, Jeongyeon smirking at Nayeon’s sarcastic jabs—and somehow, the alcohol keeps flowing. Nayeon drinks a bit more than she probably should, but she doesn’t care; Jeongyeon’s just calm enough to make her feel like she’s in control… kind of.

Eventually, their meals are gone, the plates cleared, and it’s time to leave. They split the bill, and Nayeon grabs her bag, swaying just slightly as she stands. Not enough to be embarrassing—but enough that she notices. Jeongyeon notices too. Of course she does. She tilts her head, a playful glint already forming in her eyes. “You want me to drive you home?”

Nayeon squints at her immediately. “Girl… you’re clearly fucked up,” she says, trying to sound serious—but there’s a laugh sitting right under it.

Jeongyeon scoffs, offended. “I’m not. I just need to sober up a bit,” she says, gesturing vaguely toward the parking lot. “I’ll be fine.”

Nayeon stares at her. Then exhales dramatically, throwing her hands up. “Fine. Okay. I’ll let you take me home.” She pauses. Then narrows her eyes. “…And don’t start.”

Jeongyeon blinks. “Start what?”

Nayeon points at her. “That weird shit you keep saying about your car.”

Jeongyeon’s lips twitch. “…What weird shit?”

Nayeon groans. “Oh my god, don’t do this,” she mutters, already walking toward the door. “You know exactly what I’m talking about.”

Jeongyeon follows beside her, way too amused. “I really don’t.”

“Yes, you do,” Nayeon snaps. “Every time you bring up your car, you say something stupid.”

Jeongyeon hums, pretending to think. “…I mean,” she says slowly, “my car is pretty comfortable.”

Nayeon stops walking. Turns. Stares at her. “…I will actually kill you.”

Jeongyeon laughs, hands up in surrender. “I’m just saying! It’s a nice car!”

“You’re so annoying,” Nayeon mutters, pushing past her toward the exit. “You drove us here and nothing happened, so don’t start acting weird now.”

Jeongyeon grins, falling into step beside her. “Yeah, because you were behaving.”

Nayeon chokes. “I was behaving?!”

Jeongyeon shrugs. “Mhm. For once.”

Nayeon shakes her head, laughing despite herself. “You’re unbelievable.”

Jeongyeon glances at her—quick, quiet—then looks away again like nothing happened. “Still getting in the car though, right?”

Nayeon rolls her eyes. “…Unfortunately.”

But she’s smiling.

——

The car is a mess.

Crinkled fast food bags shoved into the cup holders, fries half-eaten, two empty drink cups rattling slightly every time Momo shifts in her seat. It smells like salt and grease and something sweet from Mina’s drink.

And somehow—it’s perfect.

Mina sits angled slightly toward her, one knee tucked in, sleeves pulled over her hands. She’s in casual clothes—just a simple oversized hoodie and leggings—but Momo keeps catching herself staring.

She looks… different. Softer. More real. And worse—closer.

Momo looks away quickly, pretending to focus on the empty wrapper in her lap. Her mind won’t shut up. It keeps flashing back to—

after work
that room
Mina in her lap
the way she looked at her after

Fuck. Momo swallows, shifting in her seat. She really thought that would ruin everything. She thought Mina would pull away. Ghost her. Act weird.

She didn’t.

If anything—Mina leaned in. More texts. Faster replies. More emojis. More… attention. Like nothing went wrong. Like she wanted more. Momo doesn’t know what to do with that yet, and it makes here nervous. “…That was… good,” she says finally, a little awkward.

Mina nods. “Yeah.” A small smile. “It was.”

There’s a pause. Not uncomfortable. Just… quiet. Momo glances at her again. We should go on a real date, she thinks. The thought comes so easily it almost startles her. She opens her mouth—Then stops.

Because Mina’s already looking at her. Not subtle. Not quick. Just… looking. Momo’s chest tightens. She reaches for her phone instead. Bad idea.

Jeongyeon’s messages are still open.

she’s in, girl! Mina wants it!!!
whatever the hell you did?? she’s IN
i’m just saying if you wanted to get some TONIGHTTT…… LMFAOO

Momo locks her phone immediately, shoving it into her jacket like it offended her.

“…you good?” Mina asks, a little amused.

Momo exhales. “Yeah. She’s just being an idiot.”

Mina tilts her head slightly. “Jeongyeon?”

Momo freezes. “…how did you know that?”

Mina just smiles. Shrugs. “You make that face when you text her.”

Momo stares at her. “…what face?”

Mina’s smile widens, just a little. “That one.”

Momo huffs, shaking her head. “You’re annoying.”

Mina laughs softly. And it settles again. But not really. Because the air is still—charged. Too aware. Too quiet. They pull up to Mina’s apartment building a few minutes later.

The engine turns off. And neither of them moves. Momo taps her fingers lightly against the steering wheel. Mina adjusts her sleeve. They both stare at the dashboard like it’s suddenly fascinating.

“…So,” Mina says finally.

“…Yeah,” Momo replies.

The car was silent. Mina reaches for the door handle—Then pauses. Momo beats her to it.”…about the other day—”

Mina turns her head immediately. “Don’t.”

Momo blinks. “…what?”

“You don’t have to apologize,” Mina says, softer now. “You keep apologizing.”

Momo exhales. “I just—I don’t know, I thought I—”

“You didn’t,” Mina cuts in gently. There there’a a beat. “…it was fine.”

She says it again.But this time—she doesn’t hold eye contact. Her gaze dips. Just slightly. Down. Then back up. Momo notices. Of course she does.

“…was it?” Momo asks quietly.

Mina nods. A little shy now. “…yeah.”

There’s a pause. Then Momo—because she’s an idiot— “….you’d sit in my lap again?”

It just—comes out. Mina freezes. Just for a second. Momo immediately regrets everything.”—I mean, not like that, I just—”

“Yeah.”

Momo stops. “…what?”

Mina shrugs slightly, trying to play it off—but she’s blushing now. “…I would.”

Momo’s brain short-circuits. “Oh.”

Mina lets out a small, embarrassed laugh. “You’re acting like that’s surprising.”

“It is,” Momo says immediately. “Like you said it was fine, I didn’t think you meant—like—”

“I did.” Mina looks at her now. Fully. “I meant it.”

Silence hits them, heavy. Momo swears her heart just skipped. “…you said that before,” she mutters.

“I know,” Mina says. Then there’s a beat. “I still mean it.”

And now Momo is DONE. Because now Jeongyeon’s dumbass voice is back in her head…. and suddenly she’s bold. Stupid. Reckless. Her eyes flick—just for a second—to the backseat.

“…so,” she says slowly, trying to sound casual and failing miserably, “…you wanna go back there?”

Mina blinks. Momo gestures vaguely. “You could, uh—sit in my lap again. In the back seat….”

Silence swallows them in the car. Momo braces for rejection. For Mina to laugh. Pull away. Shut it down—

Instead—Mina leans forward. Just slightly. Over the console. Closer. Her eyes lock onto Momo’s. “I know what you’re doing,” she says calm.

Momo swallows. “…yeah?”

“I’m not that easy.”

Momo lets out a breath, half-laughing. “Right. Yeah. That’s—fair.”

Mina’s lips twitch. “…I’m just messing with you.”

Momo squints. “You’re evil.”

“Maybe.” A pause. And then—Mina slips. “…we’ve done more than that anyways.”

Momo blinks. “…what?”

Mina freezes. Oh. Shit.

“I—” Mina immediately looks away, fumbling. “I mean like—the teasing and—like—the—”

Momo stares at her. “No.” Mina’s face burns, as she stares more in confusion. “That wasn’t—what you meant.”

“…I don’t know what I meant,” Mina says quickly, covering.

Momo keeps looking at her. Confused. Curious. But then—she lets it go. “…you’re weird Mina,” she mutters.

Mina exhales, relieved. “You started it.”

Momo snorts. “That’s not true.”

“Uh-huh.”

There’s another pause. Quieter now.

“…okay,” Mina says, reaching for the door handle again. “I should actually go.”

“Yeah,” Momo says quickly. “Yeah, of course.”

They both step out of the car. And the air outside somehow feels colder. Sharper. Like something almost happened—again.

The night air is cool. Quiet. Momo walks Mina to the front door of her apartment building like it’s the most natural thing in the world, hands shoved awkwardly into her jacket pockets.

Mina slows down just a little as they reach it. Like she’s not in a rush. Like she doesn’t want to be. They stop. Right at the front of the door. “…Well,” Mina says, turning slightly toward her. “I’m here.”

“…Yeah,” Momo echoes.

They both shift. Look away. Then back again. Mina presses her lips together. Momo scratches the back of her neck. They’re both very aware of each other. Of the space between them. Of the fact that neither of them is leaving.

“…Okay,” Mina says after a second, voice softer now. “I should go inside.”

She turns, pulling her keys out. Beep. The door unlocks with a soft click. Her hand wraps around the handle—This is it. Normal ending. Totally normal.

But then Momo moves before she can think. Her hand reaches out—and grabs Mina’s wrist.

Mina turns immediately. “…What?”

Momo steps forward—Too close. The door swings shut behind Mina with a quiet thud. Now they’re standing there. Right up on each other. Momo freezes.

Oh my god.

She steps back—Her foot hits the step behind her wrong—and she nearly loses her balance.

“Oh my god—” Mina blurts, grabbing her instantly.

Her hands catch Momo’s arms, pulling her forward before she can fall. And suddenly—they’re right there. Chest to chest. Hands still holding on. Faces inches apart. Silence hits them again. Now it’s just their breathing.

Momo can feel Mina’s fingers gripping her sleeves. Mina can feel the warmth of her through her clothes. Neither of them moves. Neither of them pulls away. It’s not planned. It’s not smooth. It’s just—there.

It’s like something snaps in her chest.

Momo doesn’t think. She just—leans in. And kisses her. It’s soft. Uncertain. Her lips barely press against Mina’s at first—like she’s giving her time to pull away. But she doesn’t. So Momo lingers. Because she means it. Meanwhile, Mina’s brain completely short-circuits.

Wait—this is—Oh my god—WHAT DO I DO—

For half a second, she just freezes. Then—she closes her eyes. And tries to kiss back. It’s clumsy. A little off. She doesn’t really know what she’s doing—but she tries anyway, lips pressing back against Momo’s in a way that’s soft and unsure and completely genuine.

Her heart is pounding so loud she’s convinced Momo can hear it. Her hands tighten slightly on Momo’s arms. She leans in just a little more—like she’s figuring it out in real time. And somehow—it works.

Momo relaxes into it. Just a little. Her hand shifts slightly where she’s holding Mina, thumb brushing faintly against her sleeve as she leans in again—more sure this time. The kiss deepens—not by much. Still gentle. Still careful. But there’s intention now.

And then—Mina stops breathing.

Momo feels it immediately. The tension. The way Mina’s body goes a little stiff— She pulls back just slightly—and Mina immediately grabs onto her. Like she’s about to fall.

Mina leans forward, forehead pressing into Momo’s shoulder, fingers gripping her jacket as she inhales sharply “—oh my god—” Momo blurts, panicking. “Did I—did I do something—”

“I just—” Mina gasps, voice muffled. “I couldn’t—breathe—”

Momo freezes. “…oh.” A beat. “…okay.” She exhales, relief flooding her face almost instantly. “…so it wasn’t bad then?”

Mina shakes her head against her shoulder, still catching her breath. “….no.”

They both go quiet. Still standing way too close. Still holding onto each other. Both of them—blushing hard. Slowly, Mina lifts her head. Their eyes meet again. And—there it is. That same pull.

Neither of them lets go. Neither of them steps back. Momo’s gaze flicks down to Mina’s lips—then back up. Mina notices. Her heart starts racing all over again. They both lean in—just a little—like they’re about to try again.

Then the apartment door swings open behind Mina.

“—oh, sorry—”

They JUMP apart. Like they just got caught committing a crime. Mina stumbles forward a step, Momo jerks back so fast she nearly loses her balance again.

The random neighbor barely even looks at them, just walks past. But it’s already too late. The moment is DEAD.

“I should go inside,” Mina blurts, voice way too fast.

“Yeah—yeah—uh, goodnight—” Momo says at the exact same time.

Mina fumbles with the door, pushes it open. “Goodnight,” she repeats, softer this time, not quite meeting Momo’s eyes.

And then—she’s gone. The door shuts. Momo just stands there. Frozen. Staring at the door. Processing.

“…what the fuck did I just do…..”

Her hands go to her head. She paces once. Twice. “OH MY GOD.”

She turns, run down the stairs and speed-walks to her car like she’s escaping a crime scene, nearly dropping her keys trying to unlock it. Her heart is still pounding. Her face is still hot. She gets inside, slams the door, and immediately drops her forehead against the steering wheel.

“…I just kissed her.” A beat. “…I JUST KISSED HER???”

She sits there in silence for a second—then lets out a strangled laugh.

“—and she almost passed out.”

—–

The two of them step outside more in the parking lot, laughing at something one of them said, and make their way toward Jeongyeon’s car. The night air feels warm, their banter continues, and Nayeon can’t help thinking that she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

Jeongyeon opens the passenger door for her, one hand braced against the frame. “Careful,” she teases lightly.

Nayeon rolls her eyes but steps in anyway, fumbling slightly as she drops into the seat, her purse slipping off her shoulder. “I’m fine,” she mutters, as she shuts the passanger door.

She is… not entirely fine. By the time Jeongyeon walks around and slides into the driver’s seat, Nayeon is already struggling with her seatbelt. The strap twists. Gets stuck. Refuses to cooperate.

Jeongyeon glances over. …pauses. Then snorts. “Wow,” she says. “You’re actually gone.”

Nayeon glares at her, still wrestling with the belt. “I am not,” she snaps. “This thing is just—stupid.”

“Mhm,” Jeongyeon hums. “Sure. Blame the seatbelt.”

“Shut up,” Nayeon mutters, yanking it again. It locks. She freezes. “…Okay, what the fuck.”

Jeongyeon laughs under her breath, shaking her head. “Here,” she says, already leaning over. “I got you.”

“I got it—” Nayeon starts—but Jeongyeon’s already in her space.

Close. Too close. Her arm reaches across Nayeon, fingers brushing the strap, pulling it loose with ease. Nayeon stiffens instantly. “…You’re doing too much,” she mutters.

Jeongyeon just grins, unfazed. “You were fighting for your life over here.”

“I was not—”

Click.

The seatbelt snaps into place. Jeongyeon’s hand lingers for just a second. And when she looks up—They’re right there. Breathing distance.

Nayeon’s breath catches. Jeongyeon notices. Of course she does. And instead of pulling away—she leans in. Just slightly. Testing. Nayeon’s eyes widen immediately. “Oh my—”

Her hand comes up fast—grabbing Jeongyeon lightly by the chin and pushing her face to the side. “WHAT are you doing?” she blurts, half-whisper, half-laugh.

Jeongyeon bursts out laughing. Actually laughing. “I wasn’t even doing anything!” she says, still leaning close.

“You were!” Nayeon shoots back, still holding her face away. “You’re so annoying—”

Jeongyeon’s shoulders shake with laughter. “Okay, okay—relax,” she says, finally letting herself be pushed back.

Nayeon drops her hand, immediately looking away, flustered. “…You’re insane.”

Jeongyeon leans back into her seat, still grinning. “And your letting me drive you home anyway.”

Nayeon crosses her arms, staring straight ahead. “…Just drive.”

But her ears are red. Her heart is racing. And she knows—that was way too close. Jeongyeon glances at her one more time. Smiles to herself. Then starts the car.

The car starts moving, and the gentle hum of the engine seems to highlight every little sound—the soft swish of the windshield wipers, the clicking of the turn signal. Nayeon’s gaze keeps flicking to Jeongyeon, trying not to stare, trying not to imagine… things.

“So,” Jeongyeon finally says, glancing over as she drives, her voice lighter than the tension sitting between them, “did you have fun tonight… or was the alcohol just your excuse to flirt with me?”

Nayeon freezes. Flirt with you? Her brain immediately short-circuits.

“I—” she starts, then stops. Her thoughts feel slow. Heavy. Like they’re trying to catch up with everything all at once. The buzz from the alcohol is fading—just enough to make everything sharper. More real. “I don’t know,” she admits quietly.

Too honest. Too fast. She winces internally. Why did I say that?

Jeongyeon lets out a soft laugh, glancing back at the road. “Don’t overthink it,” she says easily, reaching up to adjust the mirror. Her fingers brush Nayeon’s hand—just barely.

Nayeon feels it anyway. Of course she does. Her stomach drops. Her heart starts doing that stupid, erratic thing again. She clenches her hands in her lap, staring straight ahead now, trying to ground herself. But her thoughts won’t stop. What does she even want? Friends? Something more? Something… messier? And why does everything feel so intense right now?

The car fills with silence. Not awkward. Just… heavy. Jeongyeon glances over again. Nayeon hasn’t said anything. Hasn’t moved.

“…You’re really quiet,” Jeongyeon says.

Nayeon doesn’t answer. Jeongyeon exhales softly, her grip on the wheel loosening just a little. And then— she speaks again. “Hey… I, um—” She hesitates. Which is rare. “I leave tomorrow,” she says.

Nayeon blinks. Turns slightly. “…What?”

“Remeber, my trip,” Jeongyeon says, a small shrug like it’s not a big deal. “China. Early morning flight.” A beat. “We talked about it earlier.”

Nayeon just stares at her. Her brain feels like it’s lagging behind the conversation. “Oh. Right. That…..”

Jeongyeon lets out a small breath, eyes still on the road. “Yeah.” A pause. Then, quieter— “I’m gonna be gone for a bit.”

The silence shifts. Again. Jeongyeon smiles faintly to herself, like she’s trying to keep it light. “But… I’m glad we hung out tonight.”

Nayeon’s chest tightens. Jeongyeon continues, a little softer now— “I like being around you.”

That lands. Hard. Nayeon’s brain immediately spirals. What the fuck is happening.

“And…” Jeongyeon adds, almost under her breath— “I’m probably gonna miss you.”

Silence echoes between them. Nayeon’s head snaps toward her. “…You’re acting like you’re going to war,” she blurts out.

Jeongyeon laughs softly. “There it is.”

“I’m serious,” Nayeon mutters, shaking her head, trying to regain control of literally anything. “It’s just a work trip, and it’s only one week.You’ll be fine.”

“I know,” Jeongyeon says easily. “But still.”

Nayeon looks away again. Her chest feels… weird. Tight. Warm. Annoying. “…You’re so dramatic,” she mumbles.

Jeongyeon smiles. “Yeah.”

A beat passes. Nayeon exhales slowly. Then, quieter—”…It’s gonna be boring here without you.”

She immediately regrets it. Jeongyeon glances at her, and raises an eyebrow. “Oh?”

Nayeon shrugs quickly, defensive. “It’s not like that,” she mutters. “Just—work-wise. You’re… entertaining.”

Jeongyeon lets out a quiet laugh. “Entertaining?”

“Yeah,” Nayeon says, crossing her arms. “Don’t let it get to your head.”

Jeongyeon smiles to herself, eyes back on the road. Too pleased. “…I’ll take it.”

And just like that—the air in the car shifts again. Not lighter. Just…closer.

The ride continues, the city lights flickering past the windshield, and Nayeon’s thoughts are a chaotic storm. She’s laughing at Jeongyeon’s jokes one second, glaring at her teasing smirk the next, and her heart is a mess she can’t untangle.

By the time they pull into her building’s parking lot, she’s a complete flustered disaster. Jeongyeon glances at her, calm as ever. “Here we are,” she says, still teasing, still in control.

Nayeon swallows hard, leaning back in the seat. How am I supposed to get out of the car without saying something stupid? Or staring too long? Or… Her brain short-circuits again, and she can’t even look at Jeongyeon without feeling flustered.

Jeongyeon’s eyes soften, just slightly, and she reaches out, tapping Nayeon’s arm. “You okay?” she asks.

Nayeon nods quickly, but the blush creeping up her neck says otherwise. “Yeah… yeah, I’m fine,” she murmurs, barely meeting Jeongyeon’s eyes. And deep down, she knows: she’s anything but fine.

Nayeon sits, her hands gripping the edge of the door, heart hammering. Jeongyeon’s in the driver’s seat, calm as ever, that teasing smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. The engine hums quietly, but Nayeon can’t hear a thing over the pounding of her own heartbeat.

Finally, she blurts out—”Do you… maybe want to, like, come up?”

Jeongyeon glances at her, eyebrow raising slowly. “Come up… where?”

Nayeon groans immediately, reaching over and pinching her side. “You know—my apartment,” she mutters, leaning closer, already flustered. “Don’t be annoying.”

Jeongyeon lets out a quiet laugh, that familiar smirk settling in. “Ohhh. That.” A beat. Then—”But I don’t have a condom on me.”

Nayeon freezes. Then her head snaps toward her. “Are you serious—” She shoves Jeongyeon hard in the shoulder. “What the fuck is wrong with you?!”

Jeongyeon bursts out laughing. “I’m just saying!”

“You’re not funny!” Nayeon snaps, face on fire. “Why would you even—”

Jeongyeon leans back in her seat, completely entertained. “I mean,” she shrugs as she laughs a little, “we don’t have to go upstairs.” A pause. Then, casually— “The backseat works too.”

Nayeon stares at her. Eyes narrowing. Then—lower, sharper—”….. so you DO wanna fuck me.”

Jeongyeon stills for half a second. Just a flicker. Then the smirk comes right back. “Wow,” she exhales, leaning back like she’s impressed. “You say that so confidently.”

Nayeon scoffs, immediately defensive. “Because you keep making stupid jokes like that.”

“I make a lot of stupid jokes,” Jeongyeon shrugs.

“Not like that,” Nayeon shoots back. “That was very specific.”

Jeongyeon grins, tilting her head. “You’re overanalyzing.”

“I’m not—” Nayeon stops, annoyed, flustered, everything at once. “You’re annoying.”

Jeongyeon just hums, clearly entertained. “You asked me first, remember?”

“That was different—”

“Was it?” Jeongyeon cuts in, smiling just enough to make it worse.

Nayeon glares at her. Then shoves her again. “Shut up.”

Jeongyeon laughs, shoulders shaking. “You started it.”

“I did NOT—” Nayeon cuts herself off, dragging a hand down her face. “You’re so—” She exhales sharply. “…You’re so stupid.” There’s a beat. And then—quieter now— “I was being serious.”

Jeongyeon stills. Just slightly. The laughter fades—not completely, but enough. She studies Nayeon for a second. Really studies her. “Oh.”

Nayeon looks away immediately, suddenly very interested in the dashboard. “I just meant… like… to hang out,” she mutters. “I’m still sobering up. That’s it.”

There’s a pause. Jeongyeon leans back in her seat, running a hand through her hair. She exhales. Half amused. Half… something else. “You’re dangerous, you know that?” she says lightly.

Nayeon scoffs, still not looking at her. “Please.”

There’s another beat. Then— Jeongyeon nods toward the building. “…Okay.”

Nayeon blinks. Looks back at her. “…Okay?”

Jeongyeon shrugs, reaching for the door handle. “I’ll come,” she says. “And help you sober up.” There’s a small pause. Then, glancing at her—”But don’t start acting weird.”

Nayeon scoffs immediately. “I’m not the one acting weird.”

Jeongyeon hums. “Mhm. Sure.” She opens the door slightly, then adds, almost casually—”I already know you’re gonna try something.”

Nayeon freezes. “…Excuse me?”

Jeongyeon shrugs like it’s nothing. “You heard me.”

Nayeon turns fully toward her now, eyes narrowing. “You fucking want me to. That’s why you’re saying that.”

Jeongyeon doesn’t answer. Just shrugs again and has that stupid, knowing look on her face. Nayeon exhales sharply through her nose. “If you keep playing with me like that, I will.”

Jeongyeon glances back at her, eyebrow raised. “Oh?”

“You heard me.”

There’s a beat. Then Jeongyeon smirks. “You’re gonna touch me upstairs in your own apartment?”

Nayeon holds her gaze. “…Maybe I will.”

There’s another beat. Something shifts. Jeongyeon holds her gaze for a second longer than necessary and lets out a quiet breath. Then the words come out on their own,— “Let’s find out, then.”

“Fuck you,” Nayeon mutters immediately.

Jeongyeon laughs, pushing the door open. “I’m kidding.”

There’s a pause. Nayeon looks at her. “…Yeah,” she says, just as calm. “And I’m not.”

And just like that—the tension shifts. Not gone. Just…different now.

Nayeon swallows hard, heart hammering in her chest. What the hell is happening? she thinks. Why does everything she does make my head spin?

Maybe it’s the alcohol. Maybe it’s Jeongyeon. Maybe it’s both.

Either way… Nayeon knows she’s dangerously close to losing all composure before they even reach the lobby.