KAYLA'S POV:
After school, I rushed to the café, wearing the school uniform from the high school I told him about.
The late afternoon air was warm, and my heart was beating faster than usual as I pushed the door open.
When I walked in, I noticed only Liam standing behind the counter.
I let out a quiet breath of relief.
Thank God… he didn't arrive yet.
I had barely taken two steps inside when I felt a presence behind me.
I turned around slowly…
And there he was.
Standing right in front of me.
Why are you late today?
His voice was calm, but his eyes were sharp, observant, calculating, like he had already analyzed every possible excuse I could give.
I had high school today, that's why. I came straight from there…
He didn't react immediately. Instead, he glanced at his watch.
The high school you mentioned ends at 3:30 PM. You came here by bus, so it would take about thirty minutes. And it's five right now…
He looked back at me, eyebrow slightly raised.
So what took you so long?
Oh God. I'm cooked.
Why is he acting like my father?
I-I had an extra class…
Which class?
Which class???
He nodded once, waiting.
My brain started panicking.
Music! Music class!
Music class?
Yeah… my singing skills are really bad, and I can't sing properly. So I thought I could get some extra lessons today from the music teacher… so I can do my best in the competition.
I forced a small smile, silently praying he would believe me.
Competition? When is it?
Next week!
Oh. Good. How is your preparation?
Too bad.
He nodded slowly, like he was evaluating whether I was telling the truth or not.
Then suddenly… he stepped closer.
Too close.
My breath hitched.
Stay in the café tonight after closing time… okay?
Y-yeah… okay.
My voice almost disappeared.
He held my gaze for a second longer, then turned and walked toward the counter like nothing happened.
Meanwhile, my brain completely stopped functioning.
Why is he telling me to stay?
Does he want to talk about something serious?
Or… does he want to get romantic with me tonight?
Or maybe… he wants some time alone with me?
Oh God.
Everything is happening too fast.
Is this a dream?
My cheeks were burning nonstop.
I was so distracted that I didn't even notice Liam calling me.
Ciara! Order!
Coming!
I quickly walked behind the counter, trying to act normal…
But my heart was still racing.
And for the rest of the evening…
All I could think about was tonight.