chapter 24

Diana's pov

After a few days of overthinking, I finally made up my mind-I wanted to go on the date with Minji. She had been unbelievably sweet lately, always checking in on me, sending little good morning texts, and even leaving me small notes with chemistry puns when I came into class. It was honestly adorable.

She wasn't just the confident, intimidating woman everyone saw in class; she had this softer side to her, and I couldn't ignore how much I liked it. It felt like she was showing me a part of herself no one else got to see, and that meant something.

One night, as I lay in bed, staring at my phone, I hesitated for a moment before finally opening our Instagram chat.

Me: Okay. Let's go on that date.

I barely had time to process sending it before the typing bubbles appeared instantly.

Minji: You just made my entire week.

I couldn't help but smile.

Me: Just your week? I thought you were obsessed with me or something.

Minji: Oh, I am. But I have to keep some mystery, don't I?

Me: You lost that mystery a long time ago.

Minji: Rude. So, this Friday night. Be ready at 7. Dress up for me.

I felt my face heat up at that, but I bit my lip, trying to ignore how much that one sentence made my heart race.

Me: You're so bossy.

Minji: And you love it.

I rolled my eyes but didn't deny it.

Me: Fine. Friday at 7. You better make this worth it.

Minji: Oh, I will. I'll pick you up. Sweet dreams, princess.

I stared at my screen for a second, my heart doing something weird in my chest. I shook my head, tossing my phone onto my pillow, but I couldn't stop the small smile on my face.

I was actually excited for this.

The next day-Thursday-Minji was acting way too sweet. Like, almost suspiciously sweet. But also... ridiculously adorable.

From the moment I walked into chemistry, I could tell something was different. She wasn't just her usual confident, teasing self-she was full-on soft.

When I sat down, I noticed a little folded note next to my notebook. I glanced up at her, but she was already looking at her desk, pretending like she hadn't just placed it there.

I opened it.

"What do you do with a sick chemist? If you can't helium, and you can't curium, then you might as well barium. (But don't worry, I'd never let anything happen to you.)"

I snorted. It was such a dumb joke, but the little note at the end made my stomach do this annoying flip.

I looked up at her again, and this time, she was already staring at me. When our eyes met, she smiled-not her usual smug smirk, but a real, soft, warm smile.

What the hell.

Throughout the lesson, she was different, too. Normally, she had this super composed, effortless energy about her, but today? She was almost... giddy. She'd linger near my desk a little longer than necessary, let her fingers brush over mine when handing me something, and even subtly leaned in when explaining something-as if she just wanted to be close.

At one point, she caught me staring at her, and instead of saying something cocky like she usually would, she just beamed at me. Full-on, no-holding-back, adorable beam.

I had to look away because what the hell was happening.

Then, right before class ended, she walked by my desk and, without warning,

She booped my nose with the end of her pen.

I blinked. She grinned.

"You're cute when you're focused," she murmured before walking away like she didn't just leave my entire brain short-circuiting.

After class, she was still acting ridiculously sweet.

Normally, she'd just give me a teasing smirk and go about her business, but today? She actually waited for me outside the classroom. Leaning against the wall, arms crossed, smiling when I stepped out like she had all the time in the world.

"Diana," she said my name softly, like it was her favorite word. "I was thinking... do you want coffee?"

I raised a brow. "Right now?"

She nodded. "You like caramel macchiatos, right?"

I narrowed my eyes. "How do you know that?"

That smug little look returned for just a second. "I remember things about you."

Oh.

I hesitated, but before I could even answer, she pulled a cup out of nowhere and handed it to me. Warm. Fresh. Caramel macchiato.

"You-" I stared at it. "Did you seriously plan this?"

Her eyes crinkled as she smiled. "Maybe."

I wanted to squeeze her.

Actually, I needed to squeeze her.

But oh no, it didn't stop there.

Throughout the day, she kept finding little ways to make my heart explode.

At lunch, I was at my usual table with my friends when I got a text.

Minji: "Look up."

I did.

She was standing across the cafeteria, holding up a lollipop, smiling so sweetly like she was offering me her heart instead of candy.

I mouthed, Seriously?

She just nodded, holding it up higher, insisting.

I rolled my eyes but got up to take it from her. She watched me the entire time, looking so damn pleased with herself.

"It's cherry," she said as I took it. "I figured you liked sweet things."

I wanted to scream.

Later, when I was at my locker, she suddenly appeared beside me. Not unusual-Minji loved to randomly show up out of nowhere. But this time? This time she was holding a tiny, folded paper crane.

"For you," she said, tucking it into my hand.

I stared at it. "You made this?"

She nodded, rocking on her heels.

"Minji." I looked up at her. "Are you trying to kill me?"

She laughed-bright, happy, and completely unguarded. "I'd rather you live a long, happy life." Then, she tapped my nose again before walking away.

I stood there for a full minute, holding that stupid little paper crane, wondering what the hell I got myself into.

Because if she kept this up, I was actually going to lose my mind.

After school, I met up with Abby, Nora, and Chole at our usual spot outside. The second I sat down, my phone buzzed.

Minji: "What's your favorite dessert?"

I blinked.

Abby leaned over. "Who's texting you?"

"No one," I said way too fast, locking my phone.

Chole squinted at me but didn't say anything.

Then-another buzz.

Minji: "Actually, wait. Do you like chocolate or vanilla more?"

I bit my lip. She was still thinking about the date.

I unlocked my phone under the table and quickly typed back:

Me: "Why?"

Minji: "Because I need to know!! It's important!!!"

I raised an eyebrow

Me: "Minji. What are you planning."

Minji: "nothing. just answer, pretty girl. (;"

I nearly choked.

Nora snapped her fingers in front of my face. "Earth to Diana? You just glitched."

"I did not."

"You did," Abby confirmed. "Who's texting you?"

I waved them off. "Just-just a friend."

Buzz.

Minji: "Vanilla or chocolate??? Diana, answer or I'll show up and boop you in front of your friends."

I knew she wasn't bluffing.

I quickly typed back

Me: "Chocolate."

Minji: "Good choice. I approve. What about strawberries?"

I sighed.

Me: "Yeah, I like strawberries. Why???"

Minji: ":) no reason."

I narrowed my eyes. She was up to something.

Meanwhile, Abby was side-eyeing me.

"You're blushing."

"No, I'm not."

"Liar."

I ignored her and put my phone away.

That lasted a whole five minutes before it buzzed again.

Minji: "Diana. Important question."

I sighed and checked my phone.

Me:"What hmm??"

Minji: "Are you allergic to flowers?"

I froze.

Chole noticed and leaned in. "Why do you look like that? What are you reading?"

"Nothing!" I stuffed my phone in my pocket.

Abby raised an eyebrow. "Uh-huh. Then why do you look like someone just flirted with you?"

"I don't."

"You do."

Buzz.

Minji: "I need to know!! For science."

I exhaled sharply and typed back

Me: "No, I'm not allergic"

Minji: "Okay. Good. That's all I needed to know. Carry on, beautiful."

I swore under my breath.

Nora raised an eyebrow. "You okay?"

I nodded, but my face felt hot.

Because Minji? She wasn't acting like a mysterious, untouchable teacher anymore.

She was acting like a giddy teenage girl with a huge crush.

And honestly?

It was adorable.

I walked into school feeling normal-like any other Friday. But the moment I stepped into the hallway, I spotted Minji. And she did not look normal.

She looked... radiant.

Her usual composed demeanor? Gone. Instead, she was practically glowing, her eyes brighter than ever, and the second she saw me, her entire face lit up like a sunrise.

I barely had time to react before she practically skipped toward me-not literally, but it was dangerously close.

"Good morning, Diana," she said, voice softer than usual, almost sing-songy.

I blinked. "Uh. Morning?"

She grinned. "You slept well?"

I gave her a suspicious look. "Yeah...? Why?"

"No reason." But her smirk said otherwise.

I narrowed my eyes. "Minji."

"Yes, pretty girl?"

I nearly choked. "Why do you look so... I don't know... alive today?"

Minji let out a small laugh and took a step closer. "Because it's Friday."

"...And?"

She tilted her head. "And we have plans."

Oh. Right.

Our date.

She looked so happy about it. Unreasonably happy.

And the worst part? It was cute.

Her entire vibe was different. Usually, she was smooth, a little cocky, effortlessly cool. But today? She looked like someone who had been waiting for Christmas morning since November.

I sighed. "Minji, you're acting suspicious."

She smirked. "How so?"

"You're being too happy."

She placed a hand over her chest. "Is it a crime to be excited to take you out?"

I bit the inside of my cheek. "You're acting like I agreed to marry you."

Her smile turned playful. "Not yet."

I stared.

What does that mean.

Before I could respond, the bell rang.

Minji took a step back, still grinning. "See you in class, pretty girl."

And with that, she walked away, leaving me standing there-confused, slightly flustered, and very aware that today was going to be... something else.

The second the final bell rang, I barely had time to grab my stuff before I heard footsteps. Fast ones.

I turned just in time to see Minji running-yes, running-toward me.

"Diana!" she called, her voice carrying a little too loudly across the hall.

People turned. I wanted to disappear.

She skidded to a stop right in front of me, her breathing only slightly uneven. She looked... way too excited.

I raised an eyebrow. "Minji. You ran."

"I hurried," she corrected, smiling way too big.

I narrowed my eyes. "Why do you look like a kid on too much sugar? Also, don't be so obvious! People can't know about us, you know. You're never happy in school! They're gonna suspect"

She ignored my question. "So. It's at seven."

"The date?"

She nodded rapidly. "Yes. Seven. But I'll pick you up at six-thirty. Because I want extra time with you."

I blinked. "You planned that?"

"Obviously."

I let out a slow breath. "You're really excited for this, huh?"

Minji tilted her head, smiling softer now. "You have no idea."

I looked at her-really looked at her. She wasn't just excited; she was... genuinely happy. Almost like she had been waiting for this forever.

I sighed, shaking my head with a small smile. "You're ridiculous."

Minji grinned. "And you are going to have the best night of your life."

I gave her a look. "It's just dinner."

Minji leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. "Says you."

I felt something in my stomach flip.

Before I could say anything else, Minji took a step back, looking at me like I hung the stars.

"I'll see you at six-thirty," she said, her voice a little softer now.

And with that, she turned and walked away-practically floating.

I sighed. Thank god all the other students already left.

After getting home, I went straight to my room, closing the door behind me. My dad was home, but I wasn't exactly ready to tell him who I was going on this date with.

I stood in front of my closet, staring at my clothes like they would magically tell me what to wear. Minji hadn't told me much about where we were going-just that I should dress "comfortably." Which didn't help.

After way too long, I settled on an outfit that was casual but still cute. Something that felt me. I fixed my hair, put on some light makeup, and took one last look in the mirror.

I looked like I was going on a date.

I let out a slow breath. This was happening.

Just as I grabbed my phone, a message popped up.

Minji: "I'm outside :)"

Right on time.

I walked downstairs, finding my dad in the living room. He glanced up when he saw me, raising an eyebrow.

"Going somewhere?" he asked.

"Yeah." I shifted slightly. "A date."

Dad's eyebrows went higher. "Oh?"

I nodded. "I'll be back later."

There was a pause. Then-

"With who?"

I avoided eye contact, grabbing my purse. "I'll tell you later, okay?"

Dad gave me a look. "You're not sneaky, Diana."

I ignored him. "Bye, Dad."

And before he could ask more questions, I walked out the door.

The second I stepped outside, I was greeted by the sight of Minji's car-a sleek, black luxury car that probably cost more than some houses.

Minji was already out of the driver's seat, leaning casually against the car with her arms crossed. The second she saw me, she smirked.

"Damn," she said, her eyes raking over me. "You look-"

"Don't." I cut her off, shaking my head as I walked toward her.

Minji grinned. "Fine. I won't say it."

She opened the passenger door for me, stepping aside. "Your carriage awaits."

I rolled my eyes but slid into the seat, immediately noticing how nice the interior was.

Minji got in on her side, glancing at me as she started the car. "Nervous?"

I scoffed. "It's you, Minji."

She smirked, shifting the car into gear. "Exactly."

And with that, we drove off.

As we drove, Minji kept stealing glances at me, her usual smug smirk creeping onto her face. I pretended not to notice, but I definitely did.

I had picked out an outfit that was very me-a fitted, off-shoulder top that showed just the right amount of skin, paired with a sleek black mini skirt that hugged my waist. The skirt was short, just enough to be flirty without being too much. I'd matched it with knee-high boots, adding a little edge to the look. My jewelry was minimal-just a dainty necklace and earrings-but everything worked.

I knew I looked good. And Minji definitely knew too.

Her fingers tapped lightly against the steering wheel, and her eyes flicked to my legs more than once. I pretended not to notice.

"You're quiet," she finally said, glancing over at me.

I shrugged. "Just thinking."

Minji hummed. "Thinking about what?"

I smirked slightly. "How focused you should be on driving."

Minji laughed, shaking her head. "Not my fault. You're distracting."

I bit my lip to hide a smile, turning to look out the window instead.

This date was going to be interesting.

Minji pulled up to a beautiful rooftop restaurant, the kind that had warm fairy lights strung everywhere and a perfect view of the city skyline. It wasn't just fancy-it was intimate, the kind of place people go when the night actually means something.

I turned to her, raising an eyebrow. "Minji..."

She gave me a small, very pleased smile. "You like it?"

I loved it. She can't know that yet though.

She got out first, coming around to open my door, and that's when I really took in what she was wearing.

Minji always had a certain style-masculine, polished, always put together. But tonight? She had taken it to another level.

She wore a fitted black suit, tailored perfectly to her lean, sharp frame. The white blouse underneath was undone just enough at the collar to look effortlessly good. Her black dress shoes were polished, and the way she carried herself... yeah, she knew she looked good.

I let my eyes linger on her for a moment longer than I probably should have.

Minji smirked. "Are you staring at me now?"

I rolled my eyes, stepping out of the car. "Shut up."

She chuckled, but instead of teasing me more, she held out her hand. "Come on."

I took it without even thinking.

Inside, everything was perfect. Minji had somehow reserved the best table-right near the edge of the rooftop, where the view was stunning. There were candles on the table, softly flickering, and fresh flowers set neatly in the center.

I sat down, feeling genuinely impressed. "Minji, did you-?"

"Yes," she cut in smoothly, sitting across from me with a small smirk. "I planned everything."

I let out a breath, shaking my head. "I... this is really cute."

Minji's expression softened, just for a moment. "I wanted it to be."

My heart did a little stupid thing in my chest.

This was going to be the most adorable date ever.

The menu was elegant, written in a fancy script on thick, expensive-looking paper. Everything sounded amazing-they had gourmet pasta dishes, perfectly cooked steaks, seafood, and even a few unique fusion options.

I skimmed over everything, eyes widening at some of the insane descriptions. "Minji... this place is fancy fancy."

She smirked. "Only the best."

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help smiling. "Okay, so what are you getting?"

Minji leaned back slightly, tapping her fingers against the table. "I'm thinking the filet mignon. Medium rare. With the red wine reduction sauce."

Of course she was getting that. I was kinda thinking of chicken nuggets.

I glanced back at the menu, deciding. "Mmm, I kinda want pasta... the truffle fettuccine sounds good."

"Good choice," Minji said approvingly.

When the waiter arrived, Minji ordered smoothly, barely even glancing at the menu again. "The filet mignon, medium rare, and the truffle fettuccine. We'll also take a bottle of the house red."

I raised an eyebrow once the waiter left. "Look at you, all smooth and confident."

Minji smirked. "Are you impressed?"

I gave her a playful look. "I might be."

Minji's eyes gleamed as she took a sip of her water. "Good. I want you to be."

Yeah. This date was already perfect.

As we waited for our food, the restaurant's soft ambient lighting made everything feel even more intimate. The candle flickered between us, casting a golden glow on Minji's sharp features. She looked ridiculously good tonight-so effortlessly put together, like she was made for expensive restaurants and wine glasses.

She leaned forward slightly, resting her chin on her hand as she looked at me. "So, tell me. What's something random about you that I don't know yet?"

I tilted my head, thinking. "Like... super random?"

She nodded. "Yeah. No overthinking."

I laughed. "Okay, uh... I love thunderstorms."

Minji raised an eyebrow. "Really?"

"Yeah," I said, smiling. "The sound of the rain, the thunder... it's just cozy. I love sitting by a window with a blanket when it storms. Or better yet, being outside, just watching."

Minji hummed thoughtfully. "That's actually really cute."

I shrugged. "Your turn."

She leaned back, considering. "Okay. I have this weird habit where I have to drink something hot in the morning. Even in the summer."

I grinned. "So you're one of those people who drink coffee in a heatwave?"

She laughed. "Exactly. But it's not just coffee. Sometimes tea. Or even just hot water."

"Hot water?" I gave her a look. "Minji, what?"

She smirked. "It's not that weird. It's comforting."

I shook my head, still smiling. "Okay, fine. Maybe I'll try it sometime."

She gave me a playful look. "I'll hold you to that."

The conversation drifted naturally after that. We talked about small things-favorite movies, music, childhood memories.

Then, without really meaning to, the topics got a little deeper.

Minji took a sip of wine before asking, "Has moving to New York felt... right for you?"

I hesitated for a second before nodding. "Yeah, I think so. At first, it was overwhelming. But I like it here. I like the energy."

She studied me carefully. "Do you miss California?"

I sighed. "Sometimes. I mean, it's home, you know? But at the same time... I don't know. I feel like I needed a change. Needed to start fresh."

Minji nodded, as if she understood exactly what I meant. "New York is good for that."

I looked at her curiously. "Did you move here for the same reason?"

She exhaled, swirling her wine glass slightly. "Partly. I just... needed a new chapter. Away from certain things. Certain people. I also thought I found love, I think I already told you about this earlier in class a while ago."

There was something in her tone-something that made me want to ask more. But I didn't push. Instead, I said, "Well, for what it's worth... I'm really glad you're here."

Minji looked up, something soft in her expression. "Me too."

The air between us felt... different for a moment. Warmer. More charged.

I cleared my throat, breaking the moment with a grin. "Okay, next deep question-if you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive, who would they be?"

Minji smirked, playing along immediately. "Okay... first, Marie Curie."

I blinked. "Wow. Didn't expect that."

She chuckled. "What? She was brilliant. And I'm a teacher, remember?"

I nodded, impressed. "Fair. Who else?"

Minji thought for a moment. "Probably David Bowie."

I grinned. "Okay, now that is cool."

She nodded. "The last one... maybe my grandfather."

That one made me pause. "You were close with him?"

She nodded. "Yeah. He was one of the few people in my family who really got me."

I smiled softly. "That's really sweet."

Minji gave me a look. "Okay, your turn."

I grinned, considering. "Alright. First? Audrey Hepburn."

Minji smirked. "Of course."

I laughed. "Hey, she was an icon. Next... maybe Cate Blanchett?"

Minji raised an eyebrow. "Did not know you're into older women"

I raised my eyebrow. "I'm literally on a date with you right now and you're 35."

Minji hummed, nodding. "Fair point.",

I smirked. "And for the last one... probably my mother"

"Your mother?" Minji looked surprised.

"Yeah. She's dead" I shrug

Minji tilted her head. "She was important to you?"

I nodded. "Yeah. She always had the best stories. And she always made me feel like I could do anything."

Minji smiled. "She sounds amazing."

"She was."

For a moment, we just sat there, the conversation settling into something warm and meaningful.

Then Minji leaned forward again, eyes locked onto mine. "Okay. One last question."

I raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Now you're the one asking deep questions?"

She smirked. "Just one. What's something you really want right now?"

The way she said it-her voice just slightly lower, eyes unreadable-sent a shiver down my spine.

I swallowed. "Right now?"

She nodded.

I thought for a second before answering softly, "I think... I just want to be happy."

Minji's gaze softened. "You deserve that."

The moment lingered, stretching between us.

And for the first time in a long time, I really, really believed her.

As the evening went on, everything felt like it was in slow motion. The atmosphere of the restaurant, the warm glow of candlelight reflecting off Minji's sharp features, the way her eyes lingered on me a little too long between sentences-it was intoxicating.

The food arrived, and for a few moments, we were both lost in the taste.

I sighed, setting my fork down. "Okay, this might be one of the best meals I've had in my life."

Minji smirked, taking a sip of her wine. "I told you I'd pick a good place."

I rolled my eyes playfully. "Fine, fine. You win this round."

She tilted her head, pretending to consider. "So, if I win this round, what's my prize?"

I raised an eyebrow, amused. "Oh, so this was a competition now?"

"Always." She grinned, her tone teasing but her gaze holding something deeper.

I laughed. "Alright, what do you want as your prize?"

She leaned forward slightly, voice dropping just a fraction. "I'll cash it in later."

That made my stomach do a little flip.

I cleared my throat, trying to keep things light. "Speaking of competition, if we ever play a game together, just know-I don't lose."

Minji smirked. "Oh really? Confident, are we?"

"Absolutely." I took a sip of my drink. "In fact, we should test it out. What games do you play?"

Minji leaned back, considering. "Poker."

I nearly choked on my drink. "Of course you play poker."

She laughed. "What? It's a good game."

I squinted at her. "I feel like you'd destroy me in poker."

Her smirk deepened. "Probably. But I'd be nice about it."

I huffed. "How reassuring."

We fell into another comfortable conversation, this time about random skills we had. Apparently, Minji was surprisingly good at darts, and I told her about how I was weirdly good at parallel parking.

"Parallel parking is a superpower," Minji said seriously.

I nodded. "Right? People underestimate it."

The night continued like that-soft, effortless conversation mixed with teasing remarks and moments where Minji's gaze lingered just a second too long.

When the plates were cleared, and we were just sipping the last of our drinks, I glanced at her, feeling bold. "So... was this everything you hoped our date would be?"

Minji didn't even hesitate. "Better."

That made my breath hitch for a second.

She looked at me, her expression unreadable but undeniably soft. "You... make things feel easy, Diana."

I swallowed, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. "I think that's one of the nicest things anyone's said to me."

She tilted her head slightly. "You deserve nice things."

The way she said it-so simple, like a fact-made something in me tighten.

I could've stayed in that moment forever, but the waiter approached with the check. Minji took it without hesitation.

I frowned. "Minji-"

"Nope," she said smoothly, pulling out her card. "I invited you. I pay."

I huffed. "Fine. But next time-"

She raised an eyebrow. "Next time?"

I felt my cheeks heat up. "I mean-hypothetically."

Her smirk was victorious. "Uh-huh. Sure."

As we left the restaurant, stepping into the cool night air, Minji shrugged off her suit jacket and draped it over my shoulders before I could even protest.

I looked up at her, surprised. "Minji-"

"You looked cold," she said simply, hands in her pockets, like it was the most natural thing in the world.

I pulled the jacket tighter around myself, inhaling the faint scent of her cologne. "Thanks."

She glanced at me, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Don't get too used to it, though. I do like that jacket."

I laughed. "Noted."

As we walked to her car, she suddenly asked, "Wanna take the scenic route back?"

I nodded, not ready for the night to end. "Yeah. That sounds nice."

Minji held the car door open for me before getting in herself, and as we drove through the city, soft music playing in the background, I realized something-

I didn't want this feeling to end.

The drive back to my mansion was nothing like I expected. The night air, crisp and cool, filled the car as we passed the twinkling city lights, their soft glow reflecting off the sleek exterior of Minji's car. The conversation between us had fallen to a quiet lull, but the silence was far from uncomfortable. It was peaceful, almost electric, as if the very air between us was thick with unspoken words.

Minji's hand rested on the steering wheel, her grip steady and sure. Every now and then, her eyes flicked to me, lingering just a moment longer than usual before she focused back on the road. My heart beat a little faster each time, the anticipation of what was to come settling heavily in my chest.

I had no idea what we were doing, or where this was going, but it felt so right. Every glance, every soft word, every little gesture had led us to this point-a place where I felt like the world had faded away, leaving just the two of us.

As we passed a particularly beautiful view of the skyline, Minji slowed the car, pulling over by the edge of a park that overlooked the glittering city below. She didn't say anything at first, just parked the car and turned the engine off. The silence stretched between us, but this time it was different-it wasn't awkward or filled with tension. It was calm, expectant.

I looked over at her, meeting her gaze. Her eyes were softer than I had ever seen them, filled with something I couldn't quite name-something tender and raw. I felt my breath hitch in my chest.

Minji smiled, but it was a small, knowing smile. "Diana..." she whispered, her voice low and full of emotion. "You have no idea what you do to me."

My pulse raced at her words, the weight of them settling deep inside me. My heart seemed to skip a beat, and for a moment, I didn't know what to say. All I could do was stare at her, caught in the intensity of the moment.

She reached over, brushing a lock of hair from my face, her fingers lingering on my skin just a moment longer than necessary. "I've wanted this," she continued softly, "wanted you for so long. I never thought I'd get the chance to be on a date with someone like you."

Her words were so genuine, so heartfelt, and they made my chest tighten with an overwhelming wave of affection.

I didn't even think-didn't question it. I just leaned in, closing the distance between us, and pressed my lips to hers.

It was like the world exploded in that moment. The kiss was slow at first, gentle, as if we were both testing the waters, unsure yet entirely sure at the same time. Her lips were soft, warm, and I could feel the smile tugging at her mouth as she kissed me back. Every second felt like it stretched on forever, and yet, it felt like it was all happening in the blink of an eye.

When we finally pulled away, I was breathless. Minji's hand found its way to the back of my neck, her thumb gently brushing over my skin, sending shivers down my spine. She looked at me, her gaze intense but filled with something so tender it nearly took my breath away.

"You make everything feel so effortless," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "I never thought I could feel this way again, Diana. You're everything I never knew I needed, and now that I have you for a while..." She trailed off, her thumb still caressing my skin, and I could see the vulnerability in her eyes that she usually kept hidden.

I didn't have words to match the depth of what she was saying, but I knew then, as the city lights flickered outside and the sound of the night wrapped around us, that this was real. She was real. And I felt everything shift inside me.

"I feel the same," I whispered, my voice thick with emotion. "I don't know how we got here, but I don't want this to end."

Minji's lips curved into a smile, and she leaned forward, kissing me again, deeper this time-more sure. "It won't," she whispered against my lips. "This is just the beginning, Diana. Just the beginning of us."

"What a girl..." She adds.

And in that moment, as her lips met mine once more, I knew she was right. The world outside could wait. Tonight, it was just the two of us, and nothing else mattered.