The canteen was buzzing with the usual lunchtime chatter, a hum of voices rising and falling in waves.
Fourth and Gia sat at one of the long tables, a tray of food in front of them. Gia was poking at her salad absentmindedly, while Fourth's gaze shifted from his phone to the door, waiting for the others to join.
A few minutes later, Phuwin strolled over, his backpack slung casually over one shoulder. He slid into the seat next to Gia, flashing a grin at Fourth.
I'm free for the day. Phuwin said, leaning back in his chair and stretching. Thought I'd hang out while you guys finish up.
Sky and Nani soon joined, both looking like they had been in a heated discussion, their voices growing quieter as they approached the table.
Busy day ? Fourth asked, raising an eyebrow at Nani as he sat down with a mock glare.
Just trying to keep this one in line. Nani said with a laugh, nudging Sky playfully.
Sky shot him a grin and took a bite of his sandwich, his usual casual demeanor making it hard to tell if he was fully paying attention or lost in thought.
As they settled in, the conversation flowed easily between the four of them.
They talked about everything and nothing, from random campus gossip to Phuwin's latest misadventures in his second-year classes. But then, Sky leaned forward, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
So. Sky began, glancing between the group. You guys heard about the party the seniors are throwing in two days, right ?
The mention of a party immediately caught Fourth's attention. His eyes lit up, and he leaned forward, eager. What party Phi? Tell me everything.
Sky smirked, clearly enjoying the attention. Well, Nani, a few other seniors, and I decided to throw a welcome party for the juniors at the club. It's gonna be wild. DJ, drinks, dancing... the whole thing. You in ?
Fourth's excitement was evident. He grinned wide, already thinking ahead to the night. Hell yes! I'm so in. What time is it ? Where's it gonna be ?
Sky chuckled at Fourth's enthusiasm. It's gonna be at Club Reign, starts around 9 pm. We've got the VIP section, so it's gonna be a night to remember.
Phuwin, who had been quiet up until now, suddenly leaned toward Nani. Wait, hold up. I'm in second yearâcan I join too Phi Nani ? It's been forever since we've had a party like this.
Nani raised an eyebrow, half-amused. Of course. You think I'd leave you out ? Just don't end up getting kicked out for causing trouble. His teasing tone carried the warmth of a big brother looking out for his younger sibling.
Phuwin grinned, relieved and excited. No promises. He said with a wink.
As Fourth and Nani engaged in more chatter about the partyâwhat they were going to wear, who might show up, and whether they should start practicing their dance movesâGia sat back in her chair, her mind drifting away from the conversation.
She stared at her plate, lost in thought. The party sounded like exactly what she needed to break away from the heaviness of her responsibilities.
But there was one obstacle she couldn't ignoreâher protective father, Tay, and her overbearing older brother, Gemini.
Gia was already planning how to approach the situation. New, would be her best ally.
Gia knew how much Tay loved New, and if New asked, Tay would likely say yes without a second thought.
But it was Gemini who worried her. He was always protective, especially when it came to her safety.
She could already imagine the frown on his face when she asked for permission, but with New's support, Gia was confident she could get both of them to agree.
If that happened, Gemini would have no choice but to back down.
Her heart raced as she thought about it, her mind already working on the best way to convince New.
If everything went smoothly, she would be able to join Fourth and Phuwin for shopping tomorrow, picking out the perfect outfit for the party.
She could already picture herself at the club, surrounded by her friends, finally letting go of the pressure that always seemed to weigh her down.
As the minutes ticked by, Gia couldn't help but feel a growing sense of anticipation.
The bell signaling the end of the lecture was just a short while away, and the moment she stepped out of class, she'd rush home to get her plan in motion.
The car glided smoothly through the city streets as Gia sat in the backseat, staring out the window, her fingers nervously tapping on her knee.
She replayed her speech in her mind over and over again, trying to anticipate every possible reaction her father and brother might have.
She could already hear Gemini's protective tone in her head, and Tay's calm yet firm responses. But she had faith in Newâhe was her secret weapon, her ace in the hole.
The twenty-minute ride felt like an eternity, but finally, the car pulled up to the grand gates of her home.
As the gates swung open, Gia exhaled a shaky breath, stepping out and making her way into the expansive living room.
The marble floors gleamed under the chandelier's soft light, and the room smelled faintly of lavender and wood polish.
There, seated on one of the plush couches, was New. He had his reading glasses perched on the bridge of his nose, a tablet in one hand and a phone pressed to his ear.
His calm voice filled the space as he discussed business matters, his tone a mix of authority and warmth.
Not wanting to interrupt, Gia decided to bide her time. She offered him a small wave, which he returned with a brief smile before refocusing on his call.
Gia slipped away toward her room, deciding to freshen up before tackling the task ahead.
After washing up and changing into a casual sundress, Gia felt slightly more composed. She tied her hair into a loose ponytail and took a deep breath before heading back downstairs.
This time, she found New seated in the same spot, but thankfully, his phone call had ended.
Hi, Dad ! Gia greeted, walking over and giving him a warm hug.
New smiled and hugged her back, setting his tablet aside. Hey, sweetheart. You look like you've got something on your mind. What is it ?
Before Gia could even open her mouth to speak, New chuckled and beat her to it. You can go ahead and say whatever it is you've been rehearsing in your head. Don't worry.
Gia blinked, momentarily caught off guard. How did you know ?
New laughed softly, tapping her nose affectionately.
Sweetheart, you might want to work on controlling those nervous pheromones you're releasing. You've been fidgeting ever since you walked through the door.
Gia sighed, biting her lip before nodding.
Okay, here goes. She took a deep breath, her words spilling out in a rush. There's this party at a club in two days. It's a welcome party for the juniors, organized by the seniors. Fourth and Phuwin are going, and I really, really want to go too. But I know papa Tay and phi Gemini are going to freak out, so I need your help to convince them.
New raised an eyebrow, a faint smile playing on his lips as he listened.
When she finished, he leaned back against the couch and crossed his arms. That's it ? You got all worked up over this ?
Gia nodded sheepishly. You know how papa and phi Gem can be. They'll think it's unsafe or that I shouldn't be at a club. But I promise I'll be careful, and I won't do anything reckless.
New reached over and gently patted her hand. Sweetheart, you don't need to stress so much. Of course you can go.
Gia's eyes widened in surprise. Really ? Just like that ?
New chuckled again. Yes, just like that. And don't worry about Tay or GeminiâI'll handle them. You're a grown-up, and it's a harmless party with your friends. Besides, I trust you.
Relief flooded Gia's face as she let out a small, excited squeal. Thank you, Dad ! You're the best!
New smiled, shaking his head fondly. You might want to save your thanks until after we've spoken to Tay and Gemini. But I'll make sure they don't give you a hard time.
Gia nodded, feeling lighter than she had all day. The biggest hurdle was still ahead, but with New on her side, she was confident everything would work out.
Now, all she had to do was prepare for the shopping trip tomorrowâand, of course, figure out how to break the news to Gemini without too much drama.
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Update
Enjoy reading cuties ð§¸