That night, keeping my roommates’ worries in mind, I nervously made my way to the playground. There, under the national flag, I spotted Asher. He looked intense with his sharp features and his messy bangs falling over his forehead, as if he’d been waiting forever. He had his hands shoved in his pockets and was kicking at the broken stones on the ground.
When Asher’s in a bad mood, even passing dogs get kicked.
Summoning all my courage, I almost fell to my knees, clinging to his leg and putting on a tearful performance.
“Asher, I’m so sorry! I didn’t realize that was your blanket. If I’d known, I wouldn’t have dared to do it. Please forgive me.”
I apologized in a jumble of words, wishing I could prostrate myself. Honestly, with my acting skills, I should have won an Oscar. It’s their loss that I didn’t go to the best Film Academy.
Asher leaned against the flagpole, his high frame giving him an imposing presence. He looked at me thoughtfully, his height and demeanor radiating a sense of intimidation.
“Are you saying if it wasn’t my blanket, you’d have dared to do it.”
“No, let me explain—”
I was about to defend myself when I suddenly heard some strange, disembodied voices.
[How could you dirty someone else’s blanket? It should only be me who gets dirty.]
[Finally, I made an appointment with Lena. How could I bear to be harsh with her? Lena, please see through my tough exterior and realize that aloofness is just my way of protecting myself.]
[Chances are for the one who will jump at them! Look, my love has arrived.]
I stared up at Asher, horrified. His expression was cold and indifferent, his gaze clear and icy. With his chiseled features and rebellious attitude, he looked like someone you shouldn’t mess with. His lips were pursed.
I didn’t hear him speak, so why did I hear his voice?
Confused, I strained to listen again.
The next second, the voice rang out once more:
Oh, she looked at me. All that effort dressing up this afternoon was worth it. Am I handsome? Please notice me. Her open mouth looks so adorably clueless—so cute. I’m blushing.
Even though I don’t have a lighter, you can still light up my heart.
I tentatively suggested, “How about I buy you a set of the same bedding?”
Asher’s cold demeanor suddenly cracked, and he seemed excited.