Preparations and Unexpected Sparks
Several weeks have passed since the start of the new semester, and along with it, the presence of Justine, Dexter, and Miles in the group has gradually become normal. Before, there seemed to be a distance between them, but now, it seems natural for the six of them to be together during lunch break or when they have free time.
And with the Grand University Party approaching, they have become even busier with preparations. The theme of the event is "Masquerade," so each section needs to prepare their own booth and presentation. Jeth's group is assigned to decoration and design.
In the Classroom
"Hey, Jeth! Is this ribbon straight?!" Telly shouted while holding the long and shiny decoration.
Jeth shook his head while adjusting the cardboard he was holding. "No, you're too biased. It's just like you when you stare at your iced coffee—always sideways."
"Ouch! That's harsh!" Telly said, laughing.
Miles, on the other hand, was quietly handing out materials, but occasionally he would look at Telly. This did not escape Shaun's notice, who was secretly grinning beside him.
Meanwhile, Justine was sitting next to Jeth, both busy cutting out patterns. Because they often sat next to each other to check the design, their elbows inevitably touched.
"Careful, you might get hurt," Justine suddenly whispered when the scissors almost slipped from Jeth's hand.
Jeth's ears suddenly turned hot. "Ah... thanks. I'm fine," he replied, trying not to show it. But inside, he felt his heart beating faster.
In the Gym, while practicing the setup
While the men were carrying the heavy panels and props, Dexter was staring at Shaun as if there was no one else around.
"Bro, be careful, you might drop it," Shaun said when he saw Dexter struggling. He even reached for the other side of the panel to help. Dexter smiled—the smile that had been hidden for a long time, but now, was slowly coming out.
On the other end, Miles volunteered to paint with Telly. "Can I help here?" he asked, almost hesitant.
"Sure! It's better to have someone with me, it's tiring to be alone," Telly replied as he started spreading color on the backdrop. He looked at Miles and smiled.
They may not notice it, but the simple act of helping each other is causing them to become closer to each other.
At the Final Meeting Before the Party
After weeks of preparation, everything was almost finished. The six of them sat in a circle, sweaty and tired but happy.
"Wow, I didn't think the preparations would be this fun," Jeth said while drinking water.
"Yeah, it feels like the days just flew by," Justine added, looking at Jeth, their eyes meeting briefly.
Dexter was quiet, but obviously just listening to Shaun, who was animatedly telling about possible after-party plans. Miles, on the other hand, was busy swiping on his phone, but occasionally he would glance at Telly who was busy listening.
In the midst of laughter and teasing, a strange warmth formed between them. They may not fully notice it yet, but sparks are slowly emerging that will change the dynamics of their group.
And as the Grand University Party approaches, it is clearer that more than just simple friendship will be formed among these six.