CHAPTER 2

Today's weather is beautiful! Closing my eyes, I soak in the gentle spring breeze. The sakura flowers are in full bloom today. I brush some petals off my shoulders as I walk into the studio.

I've been enjoying my time so far here – my students are an enthusiastic, welcoming bunch, and my fellow choreographers are a joy to be with – especially Hyojin! She's like the older sister I've never had.

I cautiously survey my surroundings before I continue walking. No sign of Jay. Good.

I'd been actively trying to avoid Jay for the past week. The guy probably, positively, surely, hates me now. Every time I close my eyes at night, the unwelcome image of his cold smirk resurfaces in my mind again, as if mocking me for my clumsiness.

I stuff my belongings into the locker the classroom. Some of my students are already inside, attempting to practise their dance moves from the previous lessons, whirling around, chatting and laughing jovially. My heart swells with happiness and pride – they've grown so much over the past few lessons!

As I shut the locker, I feel a tap on my shoulder.

"Hey! You can just deposit your bag in your locker and –"

My voice trails off and turns into a gasp instead.

He's dressed in a long, flowy white shirt and a pair of black pants today. He looks like a fallen angel. A devastatingly attractive one.

Jay languidly leans against the lockers. "Yoojung," he says casually, his jet-black eyes staring right into my soul. "What time does your lesson end today?"

I gulp. "Around 7.30pm." I finally muster a response. But my brain is buzzing with questions. "Why do you ask?"

His lips curl into the same charming, enigmatic smile. "Meet me at the classroom right at the end of the hall after your class. I'll be there at 7.30pm. Sharp."

Before I can ask my next question, he gracefully strolls off, humming a tune to himself.

Exhaling sharply, I check my reflection in the mirror outside the classroom. My cheeks are flushed. Cupping my cheeks with my icy cold hands, I quickly walk into the classroom.

"Hey guys! Sorry to keep you waiting…"