The sunlight slipped through thin curtains, casting pale gold across Ayu's room. She stirred awake, her heart already racing before her eyes even opened. Today wasn't like other days.
Today, she would meet him.
She sat up, hugging her knees, trying to calm the butterflies swirling in her stomach. For years, she had carried her dreams alone, her pain tucked behind smiles. And now—someone who understood her, someone who didn't laugh at her—was about to step out of the screen and into her world.
Her first thought was ridiculous but impossible to ignore: What should I wear?
She stood in front of her wardrobe, staring at rows of clothes, second-guessing every choice. Something too flashy would look like she was trying too hard. Too plain, and he might think she didn't care. After fifteen minutes of indecision, she finally chose a simple white shirt tucked into black jeans, paired with her favorite jacket. Comfortable, but neat.
As she tied her hair into a loose ponytail, she whispered to herself in the mirror, "Don't overthink. Just… be you."
Still, the nervous gleam in her eyes betrayed her calm words.
Meanwhile, across the city, Luv stood by his hotel sink, splashing cold water on his face. He stared into the mirror, droplets running down his skin, black hair damp at the edges.
He felt strangely… unsettled.
He had walked into fights without hesitation, faced knives and fists without a flicker of doubt. But now, the thought of meeting Ayu made him feel like an uncertain boy again.
His usual outfit lay ready on the chair—dark jeans, a fitted black shirt, and his jacket. Simple. Neutral. He didn't want attention. But he hesitated, wondering absurdly if he should look sharper. After a moment, he shook his head with a faint smirk.
If she's the person I think she is, she won't care about that.
Still, his hands lingered at the hem of his shirt, brushing out imaginary wrinkles, betraying his nerves.
Ayu checked her phone one last time.
Luv: "I'll be there in an hour."
Ayu: "Okay… don't be late."
Her lips curved into a small, nervous smile. She grabbed her bag, slipped her laptop inside—just in case—and headed out.
Across the city, Luv zipped up his jacket, slung his duffel bag over his shoulder, and walked out of his room without looking back.