Entangled By Fate Birthday party (*´▽｀)ﾉﾉ

[FLASHBACK]

[6 DAYS BEFORE.....]

[Ryan glances over at Sophie, who’s laughing with her friends across the room. He’s quiet, sipping his drink, trying to blend into the background.]

Liam

(noticing Ryan’s silence) Hey, Ryan, what’s up? You’ve barely said a word since we got here. Something on your mind?

Ryan

(shrugs, hesitant)😌 No, I’m good. Just... not really into parties, you know that.

Noah

(smiling) 😄 Yeah, but you made it out tonight, so that’s something. Plus, it’s Sophie’s birthday. She’d probably appreciate seeing you here.

Liam

(teasing) Especially considering the little crush you’ve had on her since, what? Freshman year?😏

[Ryan’s face flushes slightly, and he looks away, trying to hide his embarrassment.]

Ryan

(mumbling) It’s not like that...

Noah

(chuckles) 😆 Come on, man. It’s okay. We’re just messing with you.

Liam

(nudging Ryan) But seriously, have you talked to her yet? I’m pretty sure she’d be happy to see you.

Ryan

(quietly) I don’t know what to say... I mean, what would I even talk about?

Noah

(thoughtful) You could start with “happy birthday,” maybe? It’s simple, but it works.😅

Liam

(mockingly dramatic) Or you could just stand there and stare at her all night like some brooding romantic hero. Girls love that, right?😏

[Ryan shoots Jake a look, half-annoyed, half-amused.]

Ryan

(sighs) You guys are not helping. 😞😓

Noah

(more serious) Hey, we’re just trying to give you a push. She’s always been nice to you, right? So just be yourself. If she doesn’t want to talk, then no big deal. 🙁

Liam

(grinning) Yeah, and if she does, you’ll thank us later when you’re on your first date. 😉

[Ryan takes a deep breath, glancing over at Olivia again. She catches his eye for a brief moment and smiles. Ryan quickly looks away, feeling his heart race.]

Ryan

(softly) I’ll think about it. ≧﹏≦

Noah

(playfully) That’s our boy! Just don’t overthink it, alright? It’s a party, have some fun.

Liam

(encouraging) And if you need backup, we’re right here.

[Ryan gives a small smile, appreciating his friends' support. The three of them continue talking, the tension easing as they move on to lighter topics. Sophie, meanwhile, makes her way across the room, glancing in their direction.]