Blinding Lights
001-Fateful Encounter
The sound of her alarm brings Lea back to her senses.
Her neck hurts from sleeping on her desk after finishing her homework.
Its thirty minutes past Six in the morning, and its still dark outside.
Lea made her way to her kitchen and prepared a three-meal food. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Living alone to fend for herself, she can't afford to eat out. Although her part-time job as a barista offered meals, she don't want to get sick from lack of nutrition.
After making her food, she went about her daily routine- eating breakfast, taking a bath, brushing her teeth and tidying her apartment.
Lea attends a local public college near her apartment. Luckily she's smart and got a full scholarship for her course. She's taking business management course, hoping that she can build her own cafe someday.
Lea
Hey. You're unusually early today.
Pia struggled to catch her breath as she cling on Lea's arms.
Pia
I forgot my textbooks yesterday so I didn't make my homework!
Lea
You really think your puppy eyes work on me?
Pia
No, but its worth a try.
Lea knew Pia will beg to copy her homework because Pia is notorious for being forgetful, that's why she made a separate copy of her homework for her. She modified a few calculations just to make sure the teacher won't find out.
While Pia hustled to copy the answers on her textbook, Lea busied herself reading.
Reading books became habitual for Lea as soon as she was admitted in the orphanage. The sponsor for their orphanage loved donating books for them to read. While other children prefered playing outside, she became obsessed with reading and learning.
As a result, she never got any chance to make friends. She casually converse with them, but the other children felt that Lea has put up a wall around her which made it difficult for them to approach her.
This is true until now. Pia may seem close to her but in all honesty, she only treats Lea that way because she's convenient.
They only talk when Pia needs something. Lea knows her personality, but doesn't really mind because Lea don't really care much about others.
After class, Lea went to the bathroom to pee.
While she sat on the bowl, she heard some girls talking.
Eve
Lea's really convenient at times like these. I totally forgot my homework. How'd you even persuade her to let you copy?
Pia
Cause I'm cute. I think Lea's a lesbian and got a thing for me.
Eve
Wah! Really? That's creepy.
Pia
Well, as long as I talk to her, I can ask her anything I want. Since she's a loner and all.
Eve
Do you notice that she only wear two pairs of clothes everyday? Like how poor is she?
Pia
I know! She's even on a full scholarship. I had to swallow my pride every time people see me talking to her.
Lea contemplated whether she'll wait for them to leave before coming out of the cubicle or she'll just come out while they're still trashtalking her.
But Lea felt gross and wanted to wash her hands immediately so she silently came out and washed her hands.
Eve looked like her blood's drained as soon as she realized Lea was beside them.
Pia went on her talk but then stopped when Eve pointed at Lea.
She was dumbfounded and nervous. Inside her head, Pia was preparing for a cat fight if Lea decided to fight.
But after washing her hands, she went for the paper towels and left.
Pia ran after her and grabbed Lea in her arms.
Pia
You think you're mighty ignoring us?
Lea blinked in confusion.
Lea brushed her aside, and continued to walk away, but Pia's persistence is getting on her nerves.
Pia
...i'm ready to fight-
Pia didn't get to finish her sentence because she blacked out from Lea's punch.
Eve gasped from the shock and went immediately over to Pia.
Lea's eyes had murderous glint on them, which only made Eve tremble as she craddled Pia on her lap.
Lea cornered Eve and backed her on the wall.
Lea
I can do much worse if you report this to the administration.
Lea
Do you understand what I'm saying?
Eve
Y-you think you can threaten us?
Lea
Yeah. But if you want your scandalous relationship with one of our professors to come out, then by all means, report away.
Lea showed a copy of Pia and Eve's sex tapes on her phone.
Eve
I will remember this Lea!
Lea
Good. Remember me well, Eve. Even if you forget, I will always remind you until you the day you die.
Lea grabbed Eve's face forcefully. Digging her nails into her cheeks until it marked. After Lea determined that she won't get in trouble because she effectively scared Eve, Lea left and attended her next class without any worry.
Lea's classes were done at four thirty in the afternoon. She had enough time to walk to her part-time which was only a fifteen-minute walk from her college.
She clocked in at five and started her shift right away.
Regular costumers in their cafe are mostly girls because of her only workmate and boss, Ken.
Ken Park, 32 years old.
Cafe Owner
Divorced
Lea efficiently made the orders and swiftly moved on to the next task.
Before Lea, Ken didn't hire any employees since he started his cafe business because they fall for him easily as they work together, whether it be man or woman.
He took a chance with Lea after she applied and its been smooth sailing since she started. Ken became asexual and inactive in the field of relationships. He finds it hard to commit again after his ex divorced him for another man.
Though their regular costumers are single, Ken focused only on making sure that they come back and make his business going.
An hour before they close, a group of young men came in.
They are the country's most famous boy band. Arcana.
Arcana is a six-member boy band that was apparently treated as a national treasure.
Jae Kim, 25 years old
Main Vocal
Known as the Playboy in his group
Jim So, 25 years old
Rapper
The Cool and Aloof but really Shy member
Ren, 25 years old
Main Dancer
Also the Playboy
Harry Liu, 24 years old
Rapper
Bad Boy exterior, faithful lover internally
Theo Chen, 23 years old.
Main Visual
The youngest and the group's little cinnamon roll
Zeke, 25 years old.
Leader
Mysterious but one of the most popular.
As they settled inside the booth, costumers flock at a safe distance from them.
Brent, 30 years old.
Arcana's Manager
Single
Brent approached the counter and ordered the group's beverages. Lea noticed how Brent was looking intently at Ken.
Ken
Can I have your name for the cup, Sir?
Kent smiled politely while writing on the cup. As soon as the payment was done, Lea also finished working on their orders.
Brent carried their order to their table and Ken signalled Lea to come over. Puzzled, Lea reluctantly go. Impatiently, Ken pulled Lea's hand and whispered as soon as her ears are near.
Ken
One of the boys over there looks just like you.
Lea
Are you saying I look like a boy boss?
Ken
More like they look feminine.
Lea
Haha. That's a good one boss.
Ken rubbed his chin, low-key staring at the group, thinking.
Ken
Now I know you still look pretty even if you become a boy.
Lea grimaced and made a face.
Ken chuckled and pat Lea's head. He didn't say anything more and they both went back to work.
Lea
Yes Sir? What can I do for you?
Zeke
Can you make me another one of this?
Zeke showed his cup to Lea.
Lea
Right away Sir. I shall bring it to your table shortly.
Zeke
Can I watch you make it?
Lea didn't know what to say but quickly responded with a calculated smile.
Lea immediately crafted his salted caramel macchiato. Zeke watched her intently and the boyish glint of amusement in his eyes felt foreign and strange for Lea.
Zeke immediately consumed his second cup, not leaving the counter. He savored the flavor right then and there.
Lea waited in anticipation for his review.
Zeke
This is the best I've had so far.
Lea
I'm glad you liked it.
Zeke
This cafe is kind of secluded, wouldn't it be better if you move into a busier area?
Lea
I don't know the details even if you ask me Sir.
Zeke
Sorry. I just spoke my mind. You make good coffee, that's why I thought it'll be a waste.
Lea
A waste that people won't get to try my coffee?
Lea smiled genuinely. Its a first that someone complimented her work.
Zeke smiled back politely as soon as he saw Lea smile, and left the counter. He was immediately teased by his members who only made more clutter.
Lea felt more tired than usual as she ended her shift. Her brows furrowed as soon as she recalled the mess Arcana made before leaving.
Lea
Those bastards are too rowdy for their own good.
Lea
I hope they don't visit again. Those fans of them even broke one of our chairs just to take a picture of them.
Lea stopped on her track as she bit her lip.
Lea
Theo's all grown up huh.
As soon as Lea finished taking her evening bath, she lay down on her bed, thinking about Theo. She tinkered with her phone and searched his name.
Theo became an idol when he was sixteen and he's the youngest member of Arcana.
Their songs always dominates the charts and they even made their US debut three years ago.
Lea browsed his official social media accounts. In doing so, Lea felt a pang of pain when she saw an uploaded family picture in his account.
Her eyes slowly pooled tears, but soon wiped it away as she nuzzled her face down her pillow.
Lea soon felt sleepy and dozed off.
Mina
Lea, honey, time to wake up.
Mina
You need to get out of here before your Grandpa wakes up.
Lea reached out for Mina but she can't see properly.
Her surroundings is a blur and its as if Lea's head is underwater. The next thing she knew she's being forced inside a sack.
Grandpa Joo shoved Mina aside and continued to beat Lea with his cane.
Grandpa Joo
Shut up! I told you, your wife is the only woman allowed in this household! How dare you birth a female child!
Grandpa Joo hates women. He's a mysoginist who only views women as weak, unreliable and useless people.
He would either physically assault Mina and Lea or verbally abuse them depending on his mood.
Lea had to leave their house everyday before Grandpa Joo wakes up to avoid any chance that he will flip a switch and beat her to death.
Grandpa Joo
You should just die! Filthy kid!
Grandpa Joo strangled Lea.
Lea jolts herself awake, catching her breath. Its been a while since she had that nightmare. Her body's covered in sweat. Lea groaned in agony as she came out of the bed and head for the kitchen to drink some water.
She drank directly from the pitcher and gulped the whole content. Relieved from her agony, Lea combed her finger through her long wavy hair.
Lea
I'm not someone that you can easily hurt anymore. I want to forget all of you. Why must I recall this again?
Lea went back to her bed, changed her clothes because she was drenched in sweat. Soon she curled herself in a ball, hugging her feet.
The loneliness of being alone made Lea emotional. She tried hard to prevent her tears from falling, but it was the only way to relieve herself from grief.
Hopefully, tomorrow will come out better.
002-One Hour every Tuesday
The next day, during Lunch, Lea walked her way towards the school cafeteria.
She sat on her favorite table behind the big pillar.
After settling in, Lea took out her lunch and ate while reading.
Pia barged in a few moments later and ate with her.
Lea didn't care to look up because she can tell its her just from her strong perfume.
Pia
Are you really just gonna ignore me?
Lea
Should I even out your panda eye?
Pia
You don't need to be violent!
Lea continued to eat in silence, focusing on her book.
Pia felt annoyed that Lea's ignoring her.
Pia
Can you delete that video?
Pia
Where did you even get it?
Lea set her book aside and covered her meal.
Lea
Its not really a secret.
Lea
You know when you seduce someone on a library, its like you're asking people to silently watch you, even if its a place that people rarely go to.
Lea
I was there when you asked the professor to do you in exchange for an average passing grade.
Pia
So? Everyone does it except you.
Lea
Well, I don't really need to slut my way into graduating. I'm the smartest student here.
Pia
You still didn't answer my question.
Lea
I recorded it obviously.
Lea
What are you so surprised for?
Lea
I must have knocked you out pretty good yesterday then.
Lea
Oh wait, you don't really have a brain so I guess this is understandable.
Lea grabbed Pia's collar and dragged her across the table.
Lea
You see, I know how you bitch about me since day one.
Lea
I don't really mind because I too was bored.
Lea
But you know what irked me more?
Lea
People pestering me over trivial things.
Lea
I don't view you as anything but trash.
Lea
You might think I appreciate your company, but in reality, I'm just playing with you.
Lea
So get off your high horse and beg.
Lea
Yes, beg me to delete the video. I recorded it because I know I can use it against you someday.
Lea
And as expected, you're here.
Lea released her, crossing her hands as she leaned her back on her chair.
Lea
You know your clap backs aren't really making me tremble on my seat.
Lea
Can you at least put an effort on it?
Pia pouted like she's about to cry.
Pia
I don't want my life to end here.
Lea
Cry more then I'll consider it.
Pia bit her lip. Regretting the fact that she went against someone as tough as Lea.
Lea sneered at her through her nose. The helplessness on Pia's eyes gives Lea an immesurable satisfaction she never felt before.
Lea reached out for Pia's face and grabbed it.
Lea fished her phone out and deleted the video.
Pia perked up and thanked her.
Lea
Are you really that naive?
Pia
You already deleted it so glaring at me won't work anymore.
Lea smiled knowingly. She knew Pia was dumb but she didn't expect that she'll be this dumb.
Lea
Oh honey. You didn't expect that it was the only copy I had right?
Lea
Get lost! Talking with you makes me dumb.
Everything is as usual while Lea worked. It was until Arcana barged in fifteen minutes before they close.
Ken didn't mind since they are still technically open.
"If boss is okay with it, then it can't be helped." is what Lea would like to think.
But in reality, Lea is grinding her teeth in annoyance.
The people she wished to never see again, came in as if they naturally planned to come.
Brent
We'll have three iced americanos with extra shot of sugar-free syrup, three green tea lattes and one salted caramel macchiato please.
Ken
Would you like to add something to eat Sir?
Brent looked over the pastry section.
Brent
Do you have anything guilt free? They are a bit on a diet now.
Ken
We have sugar-free dark chocolate cookies. They're only fifty calories per cookie.
Brent
Wouldn't that be too bitter?
Ken
We used organic sugar replacement. My assistant, Lea, researched and baked the pastries we sell.
Ken
Since most of our regular costumers are women, and are overly conscious about their figure, we figured it be best to put effort into serving them according to what they wished.
Ken
Luckily I have a talented assistant.
Ken glanced over Lea direction and Brent followed his gaze.
Brent
Uhm. Is she like your girlfriend?
Lea saw Brent's relief as soon as Ken answered.
Lea
I recommend our "good cookie". It will match the drinks you ordered Sir.
Brent
Okay then. We'll have those as well.
Lea handed the trays and since its too much for one man to carry two trays, Ken helped him.
Lea observed them as they walk towards Arcana's table.
Ken returned inside the booth and helped Lea wipe the cups dry.
Ken
So they asked if they can come here every tuesday after closing hours.
Lea
That's unusual. What did you say boss?
Ken
I agreed since they'll pay a hefty sum for it.
Lea
I see. Goodluck with that then boss since you'll be going home later every tuesday.
Ken laughed at Lea's attempt to run away from work.
Ken
Of course you'll be paid overtime.
Lea
How much are we talking about?
Ken
Three times your basic.
Lea cracked her neck thinking about it.
Lea
I'll agree if you add some hazard pay considering that I'll have extra work, going home later at night and those boys aren't really the tidy bunch.
Lea
I'll be in your care then Boss.
After work, Lea walked slowly as she hiked her way home.
She saw someone bending over the railing of the bridge she usually takes.
Lena subconsciously ran towards the person and grabbed his coat.
She dragged the man away from the railing.
Lea slapped him after scolding him.
Lea heard the cat's meow. She searched for the origin of the sound and immediately went to grab it after finding it trembling on the edge of the railing.
Lea
How did you even get in there you stupid cat!
While Lea scold the cat, the man she dragged remained seated, feeling amused as he watched her.
Lea ran towards the man to check him.
She squinted her eyes and she immediately recognized that face.
Zeke
Your slap was a little over the top don't you think?
Lea
Sorry about that. I thought you were trying to die.
Zeke laughed, not really giving it much thought.
Zeke
Still my cheek kind of hurts.
Lea handed the cat over to him and it purred as soon as it was in his hands.
Lea
Why are you still here anyway?
Zeke
Its our day off tomorrow, and I was in a pensive mood.
Lea
Aren't you afraid that paparazzis might take pictures of you?
Zeke
I have my ways with dealing with them if they ever dared.
Lea
Why are you walking with me?
Zeke
You slapped me, so you need to take responsibility. What if my cheeks swell?
Luckily it was dark so Zeke didn't notice.
Lea
What do you want me to do then?
Zeke
I want something warm to eat.
Zeke
I want you to make it.
Zeke
Cause you slapped me!
Lea
Fine. Just so you know, you might die eating my cooking.
Zeke grabbed Lea's wrist and they head down the bridge where his car was parked.
His driver opened the car door for them and Zeke gestured that Lea go in first.
Though reluctant, Lea went inside and Zeke followed.
The silence was unexpectedly comforting for Lea.
She can only hear the cat purring.
Lea
Looks like it took a liking to you.
Zeke
Seems like it. Ah! I'm glad your boss agreed that we spend time in your cafe every tuesday.
Zeke
We're productive whenever we hang out in your cafe.
Zeke
We even finished the last song we've been dreading to make for the last few months.
Zeke
Not much of a talker are you?
Lea
I'm more of a listener.
Not a moment later, they arrived at his private residence.
Zeke held Lea's hands as they walked inside.
He let the cat go as soon as they reached the living room.
Zeke was still holding Lea's hands.
Lea didn't mind him as she gets lost in awe of his house.
Zeke walked Lea into the kitchen.
Zeke
Get cooking then. I'll take a shower. The ingredients are inside the pantry.
Lea made him an egg drop soup and sweet chili glazed salmon.
Zeke
It smells amazing in here.
Zeke walked in still drying his hair with a towel.
Though he's on his pajamas, Lea can see how ripped and muscular Zeke is.
He sat across the counter top, waiting for Lea to serve his dinner.
She doesn't understand why, but something about Zeke makes Lea's heart beat rapidly.
She handed him his food. While he stuffed his face with food, Lea tidied the kitchen.
Lea took two glasses out and the apple and carrot juice she made earlier.
Zeke
You look pretty natural inside my kitchen.
Zeke
Like you were meant to move around it.
Lea
Are you trying to flirt?
Zeke
Did I make you fall for me yet?
Zeke
Yet? So I caught your attention?
Lea's bluntness kind of surprises Zeke.
He never met someone as honest as Lea.
He only met her yesterday, and now he invited her in his house.
He felt like it was too soon but after seeing her in that cafe, he knew he's interested.
Lea watched him eat while they conversed about his career.
Zeke
Enough about me. I want to know more about you.
Lea
I don't think there's much to tell.
Zeke
I want to know if you have a boyfriend.
Lea
I won't be here if I did.
Zeke tried to hide his relief but Lea's too observant to not notice.
Lea
Can I be honest with you?
Lea
I don't engage in relationships not because I lack suitors.
Lea
Its because I'm straightforward, and a little crazy that's why they don't pursue me further.
Lea
So if you're approaching me because you got a little curious, I suggest you stop now.
Lea
If you love your career, then you better keep your distance from me.
Zeke felt the urge to touch Lea's face.
He traced her lips with his thumb, coaxing it open.
Lea decided to go with the flow and licked his thumb and bit it gently.
Zeke
You say that but you don't even know who I really am.
Zeke
Do you think you can handle me?
Zeke
Wait till you get to know me then decide who's crazier.
Zeke stood and cornered Lea with his thumb still between her teeth.
He laced his other hand behind her back, pushing her against his hips.
Lea felt something long, and hard and big bulging against her stomach.
She saw the lust reflected in his eyes when she looked at them.
The warm breath he exhales while he inch his face closer to hers.
All Lea can hear is the loud banging on her heart against her chest.
Zeke grabbed her hands and placed it against his heart.
Zeke
Do you know how much my heart does this whenever I think of you?
Zeke
I only met you yesterday and I'm already aching to touch you.
Lea
You need to get yourself checked then.
Zeke
You're making me crazy..
Zeke hugged Lea, nuzzling his nose against her neck.
He brushed his lips against her skin and he can feel her slowly trembling.
Lea
C-can y-you please n-not do t-that?
Zeke looked at her and fear was clearly reflected on her face.
He hugged her, trying to comfort her.
Zeke
I'm sorry. I took it too far.
His eyes widened when he felt Lea return his embrace even if she was still trembling.
003-Scouted
While Lea checked the grocery list that his boss gave her, a young lady approached her.
Mia
I'm Mia from K Entertainment.
Mia
Would you like to audition for our company?
Mia
Your height and body figure suits our style.
Mia
You also have a nice small face.
The barrage of statement made Lea a little irritable.
She can feel her annoyance rising as Mia went on about her company's success.
Lea
I'm sorry Miss Mia, but I'm not really interested.
Mia
C-can you atleast think about it?
Mia
You can call me if you changed your mind. Please call me.
Lea shoved the business card on her pant's back pocket and continued on her grocery.
While she grabbed the things on her lists, she didn't notice that she's the only one left inside the grocery store.
Zeke
Can I help you with that?
Lea jumped in surprise when Zeke sneeked up on her.
Lea
What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to have your rest day?
Zeke
This is also one way to spend my day off
Lea
By following me around?
Lea
Just so you know, Mr. Popular Idol, this is called the grocery store.
Lea
Common folks like us gather...
Lea stopped mid-sentence as she noticed that the store is void of other human except them.
Lea
Why is the store empty?
Zeke
Cause I wanted to do some shopping with you. Alone.
Lea
Just because you're rich, doesn't mean you have to splurge it on something as trivial as this.
Zeke
So your saying I can ask you out on a date and you will agree to it unconditionally?
Lea
You really are something.
Lea
If you're gonna stick around, you might as well help me then.
Zeke
Yes! Feels like we're a newly wed couple, going for our first grocery.
Zeke
By the way, I'll be gone for a week or two starting next next week.
Zeke
Hey! Atleast pretend that you'll be sad.
Zeke
It doesn't sound convincing.
Lea
How should I say it then?
Zeke
Hmmm. Put more emotion into it. Like you're really sad.
Lea
Should I just ask you not to go?
Lea took a step closer to him while looking into his eyes.
Zeke blinked in confusion.
When she's only a few steps closer, Lea daringly reached for his face.
Lea
I'll be lonely without you.
From Zeke's perspective, Lea looked really sultry.
His heart raced like crazy when Lea brushed her thumb against his lip.
Zeke covered his face to hide his blushed face.
Zeke
You're making my mind crazy.
Zeke complained while he followed Lea.
Zeke
Take responsibility. You toyed with my feelings.
Lea
Yeah. Yeah. I'll give you a cookie later. Get me one of those organic eggs please?
Zeke
You say that but you'll just think of an excuse to leave. Just like what you did last night.
Zeke carefully placed the tray of eggs on their cart.
Lea smiled while adoring Zeke who's busy complaining while demanding her attention.
She don't know why but she doesn't feel irritated with Zeke's complaining.
Zeke
Lea! Promise me you won't go home tonight?
Lea
What made you think I'll go home with you?
Zeke
Because I won't be able to see you for two weeks.
Zeke
So I will be sad and miss you.
Lea
I don't see how that's my problem.
Lea wondered how this bad boy facade of his hides his immature demeanor.
Lea
Let's make a deal then.
Lea
I'll agree to go on a date with you, once a week, if you do well on your upcoming job without contacting me.
Zeke
That feels more like a punishment.
Lea
Its called the patience test.
Lea
You have to do your best without me for two weeks, then in return, we get to go on a date as a reward for your patience.
Lea
How's that even a punishment?
Zeke
Make it twice a week and you have a deal.
Zeke
Also its up to me when, where, and how we will spend it.
Lea
I won't agree to it if you plan something sexual.
Zeke
I'm not planning on it!
Zeke
If I do my best for two weeks without contacting you, we'll go on dates planned by me without anything sexual twice a week.
Zeke
But you'll also have to spend the night with me tonight.
Lea
You really don't give up do you?
Zeke
I'm irresistable that way.
Lea didn't answer and just moved on to the next aisle to pick the rest of her groceries.
Zeke happily pushed the cart for her.
Lea felt like she picked up an adorable and clingy 5 feet 11 kitten.
After paying, Zeke drove Lea back to the cafe and helped her bring the groceries inside using the back door entrance.
Ken
My, this is a nice surprise.
Zeke
Thank you for telling me where to find her Boss.
Zeke
I just called you like that cause you really look like a boss.
Lea
This conversation is getting nowhere.
Lea
Zeke, I'll be busy with work cause we'll open the cafe soon.
Lea waited for Zeke to leave but he was just standing there.
Lea
Okay. This is the part were you say goodbye and leave.
Zeke
Right. I'll fetch you later then.
Ken
Okay! We'll see you then Zeke. Be careful on driving.
After Zeke left, Ken flashed a knowing smile.
Lea
Boss, its not like that.
Ken
I didn't say anything.
Lea
Your smile says it all.
Ken
Hmmm. Did spring came early this year?
Lea
Don't know. With the climate change and all, its a possibility.
Ken
Haha. Whatever you say.
After closing the cafe, Lea saw Zeke waiting.
Lea
Why's your hair color different?
Zeke
Our stylist said we need it for our tour next week.
Lea
It actually looks good on you.
Lea studied the neighborhood and its unusally quiet.
Most of the time, the street will still be busy with people but now its completely deserted.
Lea
Why do I get the feeling that whenever you're around, there are less people in the area?
Zeke
Haha. Must be your imagination.
Lea
Well... Whatever. I need to stop by my apartment to get a few textbooks. My term paper will be due tomorrow, so I need to finish it first.
Zeke
Okay.. But you will stay with me tonight right?
Lea
Unless you changed your mind.
Zeke
No! If possible I want you to always stay with me... but of course, you don't want that.
Lea smiled and started walking.
Zeke followed her and boldly held her hand.
He interlaced their fingers and gave it a little squeeze.
Lea didn't mind it, and actually felt warm and comfortable with their hands locked.
Zeke
This is the best day off I have ever had since I started working.
Lea
I'm sure you said those lines to your exes.
Zeke
Though I had a few exes, I never felt this way with any of them.
Zeke
You may choose not to believe me, but I never wanted someone so much until I met you.
Zeke smiled looking at the night sky while they walked.
His side profile is handsome as well, too handsome that Lea might go blind if she stared at him for too long.
Lea
If someone like you is forced to say cheesy lines like those, then you must really like me.
Zeke
Haha. You never pull you punches huh.
Zeke
Cheesy as it may sound, I meant every word.
Zeke
I could go cheesier if you like.
Lea
Haha. okay, make my ears bleed.
Zeke
Hmmmm. Nah. Nevermind. I don't want you thinking I'm making fun of my feelings for you.
Lea looked serious for a moment.
Lea
I don't think so. As I said earlier, I believe you.
Lea
Though I apologize if my comment about it being cheesy hurt you.
Zeke
I so want to kiss you right now.
Lea
Right. Keep dreamin' honey.
Lea took some essentials with her like her hygiene kit and clothes.
They arrived at Zeke's home and she immediately focused on her term paper while he took his bath.
After some time, Lea was able to finish her work, and asked if she can take a shower as well.
While she's currently doing so, Zeke changed Lea's supposed night clothes into his clothes.
Lea noticed that her clothes are gone after drying her hair.
She sighed and put on his clothes. His clothes are too big for her that the hem of his shirt reached her thighs mid-part.
Lea
You are so full of yourself Zeke.
Lea returned to the living room where he's patiently waiting, while watching some movie.
The sight of her wearing his shirt was too sexy for him that he couldn't hide his blush anymore.
Lea acted like it was nothing for her but deep inside she's becoming conscious.
He gestured that she sit on his lap, but Lea felt rebellious and just sat beside him.
Zeke carried Lea and sat her between his legs with her back leaning on his chest.
He laced his arms around her waist and rested his head on her shoulder.
The warm breath he exhaled felt good on her skin.
Zeke
I can't believe I have to miss this for two weeks.
Lea
Its your job, do it properly.
Zeke
I know that, but I'm still wooing you, and I don't think leaving is a great start.
He lightly tightened his embrace. Lea subconsciously reached for his cheeks and caressed it.
Lea
What are you still worried about?
Lea
Normally, people don't do this kind of thing this early. We're actually moving too fast.
Zeke
What's wrong with that?
Lea
Some say it might extinguish the spark.
Lea
Others say its still the infatuation stage and feelings might change as time goes on.
Zeke
That's nonsensical talk.
Lea
Hey, don't dismiss it too early.
Lea
We might experience it sooner or later.
Zeke
I'm confident about my feelings for you.
Lea
You are indeed one crazy man.
Zeke nuzzled his nose against her neck while Lea intimately caressed his hair.
Lea was weakly rejecting him.
Zeke
If you don't say anything, I'll take it as an approval.
Inside Lea's mind, she wants to say something but her lips refused to say anything.
Zeke turned her around to properly face her.
He gently placed a light kiss on her lips as he rested his forehead against hers.
Lea felt like the kiss wasn't enough and wished he would kiss her more.
He tried to kiss her again, and this time with the intent to make it longer.
Lea felt impatient as he took his time, and lightly bit his lower lip.
Zeke looked at her, wanting for her confirmation, and with just one look, he realized that he took an awful lot of time and made her wait.
He kissed her, parting her lips with his tongue.
And in every kiss that he gave, Lea responded.
The passionate kiss was disturbed by an unwanted persistent call from Zeke's phone.
Lea
You should answer that.
Lea gave him a little peck and went to the kitchen to get some water.
Zeke begrudgingly answered the call which was a video conference call.
Jae
Hey! Took you long enough.
Jae
Aren't you with your girlfriend Harry?
Jim
Guess you had a fight again?
Theo
Hey! Stop fighting with your girlfriend! Women are precious.
Ren
Even our baby says so.
Zeke
None of your business.
Jim
You look like you just finished something...
Jae
Ah! You have a girl over?
Harry
Yeah, you never let anyone inside your house.
Theo
Probably just his mother.
They laughed at Theo's remark.
Ren
Right, his visitor is just his mother.
Theo
What? Moms are naggers like that.
Jae
And you wondered why you still haven't got any girlfriends.
Theo
Zeke! They're making fun of me.
Zeke
Why are you lot calling anyway?
Theo
Can we please have a barbecue tomorrow?
Ren
I'm fine with it as long as Zeke pays.
Jae
Where should we hold it?
Harry
I kind of want to see our Leader's new girl.
Zeke
Fine. We'll have barbecue after our tour.
Theo
Make sure to bring her then okay?
Zeke
Yeah, yeah. I'm hanging up.
Lea handed a bottled water to him.
Zeke
Instead of having you all to myself, I gotta share you with them that day.
She doesn't feel enthusiastic about it.
The thought of being around Theo scares her.
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