Bobby glanced down at his phone, feeling a bit nervous but excited as he typed out a quick message to Hannah. He knew it was bold to reach out so soon after meeting her through a video call, but something about her playful smile and easy laughter had lingered in his mind.
He hit send before he could second-guess himself, glancing up to make sure no one noticed. But when he looked up, Armand raised an eyebrow at him, smirking knowingly.
"Messaging someone special, Bobby?" Armand teased, leaning back with a satisfied grin.
Bobby rolled his eyes, trying to play it cool. "Maybe," he said casually, slipping his phone back into his pocket. "You know, just making new friends."
Armand laughed, nudging Bobby's shoulder. "Sure, sure. Friends. Because that's totally what it looked like from here."
Before Bobby could respond, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He quickly checked the message, his heart skipping a beat as he saw Hannah's reply pop up on the screen.
Hannah: *Hey! Nice to finally meet you... even if it was through a screen. So, are you as charming in person as you seemed on video? ;)*
Bobby grinned down at the message, feeling a rush of excitement. He quickly typed back.
Bobby: *Guess you'll have to find out in person, won't you? đ*
Just as he hit send, he looked up to find everyone staring at him, amused by his sudden change in mood.
"Care to share with the group?" Lia asked with a smirk, clearly catching on.
Bobby laughed, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. I may have just messaged Hannah. What can I say? Sometimes, you just have to go for it."
Harvey gave him an encouraging smile. "Good for you, mate. Life's too short to let a good chance slip by."
They all clinked their cups together in a silent toast to new beginnings, and Bobby felt his excitement grow, eager to see where this chance encounter might lead.
Hannah glanced down at her phone, surprised to see a message from Bobby. She hadn't expected him to reach out so soon after their quick video chat, but she felt a spark of curiosity and excitement. The way he'd looked a bit shy yet charming during the call had stayed on her mind, and now, seeing his message, she couldn't help but smile.
She read his text and grinned at his reply, "Guess you'll have to find out in person, won't you? đ"
With a slight blush, she typed back, feeling bold. "Oh, so confident, are we? Alright, Mr. Charmingâmaybe I will. Just don't disappoint."
As she hit send, she found herself laughing at her own forwardness. Hannah was usually cautious about these things, but something about Bobby's easy smile and playful humor made her want to take a chance. She could already imagine her friends teasing her, especially Lia, who probably had an inkling this would happen.
"If only I was there, so we could meet up in person" Bobby said. Hannah smiled at Bobby's message, feeling a mix of excitement and playfulness spark in her.
*Hannah*: "Well, maybe that's a good thing. Gives you more time to come up with something really impressive for when we finally do meet in person. No pressure, though. đ" Bobby replied almost immediately.
*Bobby*: "Oh, don't worry. By the time we meet, I'll have the perfect plan. I'm already taking notes. đ"
Hannah laughed, shaking her head. She could tell he was just as eager yet easygoing, and it made her feel comfortable. There was something refreshing about the way he teased, lighthearted but genuine.
*Hannah*: "I'll hold you to that. And I hope Lia's given you fair warningâI'm a bit of a tough crowd when it comes to first impressions."
*Bobby*: "Challenge accepted. Besides, I've already got a good feeling about you, Hannah. Here's hoping we both impress each other."
Hannah felt her cheeks flush slightly as she read his message. She liked his confidenceâit was charming in a way that didn't feel forced. She could already imagine the day they'd finally meet, both trying not to let the other see how nervous they really were.
*Hannah*: "Alright, Bobby. But fair warningâyou better bring your A-game. I've got some standards to keep."
*Bobby*: "Deal. And by the way, I have it on good authority that my coffee taste is spot-on. đ"
With a laugh, she sent one last message before setting her phone down, already looking forward to what might come next.
"Hey, I have a silly idea why don't you come to the UK both you and Mia that way Lia will be so surprise your here" Bobby suggested.
Hannah's eyes widened at Bobby's unexpected suggestion. She quickly typed back, her excitement growing.
*Hannah*: "Wait, are you serious? You think Mia and I should just show up in the UK? That would be *epic*! Lia would absolutely lose it!"
Bobby responded with a laughing emoji.
*Bobby*: "Exactly! Imagine the look on her face. Plus, I'd get to finally meet you in person. Seems like a win-win."
Hannah was already buzzing with ideas, picturing the surprise on Lia's face if she and Mia just showed up unannounced.
*Hannah*: "Alright, I'll pitch it to Mia. Knowing her, she'll probably be down. But you better be prepared to play tour guide if we pull this off!"
*Bobby*: "Consider it done. I'll make sure you and Mia have the time of your lives. And of course, I'll have my A-game ready."
*Hannah*: "Sounds like a deal, Mr. Perfect Plan. Now I'm actually excitedâguess I'd better start looking at flights!"
With a final grin, she set her phone down, feeling more exhilarated than she had in ages. The idea of a spontaneous trip, plus finally meeting Bobby, made her heart race. She couldn't wait to see how it all played out.
"And I think Armand will be thrilled to see Mia too haha" Bobby laughed.
Hannah chuckled as she read Bobby's message, shaking her head.
*Hannah*: "Oh, I bet he will! Mia's going to love that. She'll probably give him a hard time just for fun."
Bobby laughed in response, already imagining the friendly teasing.
*Bobby*: "I'm counting on it! Armand could use a little challenge; he's way too confident. Besides, it'll be fun watching him try to keep up with her."
*Hannah*: "This is shaping up to be quite the reunion. I think we might just give you guys a run for your money."
*Bobby*: "Oh, bring it on. I think the UK might not be ready for the four of you together!"
Hannah laughed, already imagining the chaos and excitement of the surprise trip. She quickly messaged Mia to share the plan, her fingers flying across the screen as she explained the potential adventure.
*Hannah*: "Mia's all in! Looks like you and Armand better brace yourselves."
Bobby sent a thumbs-up emoji.
*Bobby*: "Challenge accepted. And hey, this is shaping up to be the best surprise Lia could ever imagine!"
With one last smile, Hannah put her phone down, her mind racing with ideas for the trip and anticipation building for the moment they'd finally meet in person.
Mia and Hannah burst into the room, their excitement practically radiating as they waved their plane tickets in the air. "We're going to the UK!" Mia announced, her face lit up with a huge smile. "We're finally going to meet Harvey's friends in person!"
Jay, Evan, and Steve exchanged surprised but amused looks.
"No way! So you're really going?" Steve said, a grin spreading across his face. "This is going to be amazing."
Hannah nodded eagerly. "Yep! And we'll get to surprise Lia too. She has no idea we're coming."
Jay laughed, shaking his head. "This is about to get very interesting. You know Harvey's friends are already hyped to meet you two, right? Especially after all those video calls and group chats."
Evan leaned back with a smirk. "Sounds like things are about to get a lot more fun around here. So, when do you leave?"
Mia looked at Hannah, then back at the guys with a mischievous smile. "Our flight's in just a few days. London, here we come!"
"It's sad that you guys can't come," Hannah said with a sigh.
"Well, I really can't comeâespecially now that I have a girlfriend," Steve said, almost casually.
"Say what now!?" Everyone looked at him in shock.
"You have a girlfriend?" Mia exclaimed.
"Yes, we've been together for almost five months now. Didn't I tell you guys?" Steve asked, looking genuinely puzzled.
"No, you didn't!" Hannah yelled, playfully smacking him on the shoulder.
"I can't go either," Evan chimed in. "The agency I auditioned for just contacted me. They want me to be part of their new boy group called ENHYPEN."
"Wow, everyone's got their own thing going on, and none of you bothered to tell us!" Mia said, smacking the guys on the shoulder as well.
The room filled with laughter as they all realized how much had changed and how much they'd kept from each other, making the news of Mia and Hannah's UK trip feel even more exciting.
"How about you, Jay? Wanna come?" Hannah asked, noticing he'd been quiet the whole time.
Jay looked up, a slight smile on his face. "I would love to, honestly," he replied. "But things at work have been pretty intense lately. I don't think I can get the time off."
Mia crossed her arms, giving him a playful pout. "Oh, come on, Jay. We need one more guy to even things out."
Jay chuckled. "Trust me, I'd be there in a heartbeat if I could. But someone's gotta hold down the fort here."
Hannah sighed, shrugging. "Fair enough. Just know you're missing out on the adventure of a lifetime. We'll be sending you plenty of pictures to make you jealous."
Jay laughed, shaking his head. "I'd expect nothing less. Just make sure you two don't cause too much trouble while you're there."
Mia and Hannah exchanged mischievous glances before grinning back at him. "No promises," they said in unison.
*Actually, I don't have work that day, and I know it's wrong to lie to them,* Jay thought, *but I did because I don't want to see Lia. You all know I've had a crush on her, but now that she has someone to lean on, it's time for me to move forward on my own and let them be happy.*
Jay took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his thoughts pressing down. *It's better this way,* he told himself. He looked up, forcing a casual smile as he turned to the group, trying to ignore the pang in his chest as they laughed and chatted excitedly about their upcoming trip.
"Honestly, I'd love to go, but things at work are just piling up," he finally said aloud, offering a small shrug. "You all go have an amazing time. Take lots of pictures and show me everything when you're back."
Mia narrowed her eyes, studying him for a moment. "Are you sure, Jay? I feel like you could use a break."
"Yeah, man," Evan added, nudging him playfully. "A change of scenery might be good for you."
Jay laughed it off, waving them away. "Nah, I'll be fine. Besides, one of us has to stay back and keep the group chat alive, right?"
They all laughed, seemingly satisfied with his answer, and the conversation shifted back to plans, flights, and the places they'd visit in the UK. As the excitement swirled around him, Jay felt a bittersweet sense of relief. While he knew he'd miss them, he also knew that staying back was the right choice. *Sometimes letting go is the hardest, but it's the most freeing thing you can do.*
He glanced at his friends, a soft smile on his face. "Just promise me one thing," he said. "Have the time of your livesâand make it all worth it."
As the afternoon light started to fade, casting a warm glow over the café, Lia and Harvey realized it was time to say goodbye to Armand, Max, and Bobby. The lively conversation had made the hours fly by, and they hadn't even noticed how late it had gotten.
"Well, this was fun," Armand said, standing up and stretching. "We definitely need to do this again soon."
Max grinned, giving Harvey a hearty handshake. "You've got good taste in friends, Harvey. Don't be strangers now, alright?"
Harvey chuckled, clapping Max on the shoulder. "You guys are always welcome to join us anytime. And don't forget to stay out of trouble," he joked, glancing pointedly at Armand and Bobby.
Lia smiled, feeling grateful for the warmth and camaraderie they'd shared today. She hugged each of them, starting with Max. "Thank you all for making me feel so welcome," she said sincerely.
"Anytime," Max replied with a friendly smile. "You fit right in with us."
As she hugged Armand, he winked and said, "Take care of this guy," pointing to Harvey with a smirk. "He's a keeper."
Bobby was the last to say goodbye, giving both Lia and Harvey a quick hug. "It's not goodbye," he said confidently. "It's just 'see you later."
As Armand, Max, and Bobby headed down the street, Lia and Harvey watched them disappear into the city crowd. Lia turned to Harvey, slipping her hand into his and giving it a gentle squeeze.
"Today was perfect," she said softly. "Thank you for introducing me to your friends."
Harvey smiled, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "Anything for you, love. I'm glad you liked them. And you know, they're rightâyou fit in perfectly."
Hand in hand, they began walking back, the night wrapping around them like a warm blanket.
"Let's go home, love," Harvey said as he held Lia's hand, their fingers intertwined comfortably.
Lia smiled up at him, feeling a sense of warmth and contentment wash over her. "I can't believe how much fun we had today," she replied, glancing back at the café one last time. "I feel like I've known your friends forever."
"Yeah, they're a great bunch," Harvey said, a hint of pride in his voice. "I knew you'd get along with them. They've been looking forward to meeting you."
As they walked through the bustling streets, the soft glow of streetlights illuminated their path. Lia couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging, both with Harvey and within this new circle of friends.
"Thanks for being so understanding earlier," she said, her tone turning more serious. "I know it was a bit awkward when I saw Jake and Emily. I'm just really glad you were there with me."
Harvey stopped, turning to face her fully. "You don't have to thank me, love. I care about you, and I want you to feel comfortable. Besides, I'm always here for you, no matter what."
His words wrapped around her like a warm hug, making her heart swell. "You really are amazing," she said softly, gazing into his eyes.
They continued walking, the city's sounds fading into the background as they fell into a comfortable silence. Lia felt grateful for the day and everything it had brought herâa sense of adventure, laughter, and a deeper connection with Harvey.
As they approached their home, she squeezed his hand gently. "I'm looking forward to our next adventure together," she said, her voice filled with excitement.
"Me too, love. The world is ours to explore," he replied, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
With that, they walked through the door, ready to embrace whatever the future held for them, together.
"Love, when do you resume your classes?" Lia asked while snuggling into Harvey's side, enjoying the warmth of his presence.
Harvey chuckled softly, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "I start back next week. Just a few more days of freedom before diving back into studies. What about you? When are you starting your work?"
Lia sighed, reluctantly pulling away to look up at him. "I don't start until next month. It feels like forever, but I'm trying to make the most of my time."
He raised an eyebrow, teasingly. "Oh, really? What are you planning to do in the mean time?"
Lia grinned, an idea forming in her mind. "Well, I was thinking we could explore more of the city together. There are so many places I want to check out, and it would be even better with you by my side."
Harvey smiled, his eyes lighting up. "That sounds perfect! I'd love to be your tour guide. There's a lot I can show you, and we can discover some hidden gems together."
Lia's heart raced at the thought of their adventures. "It's a plan, then! I can't wait to see what the city has to offer."
As they settled onto the couch, Harvey pulled her close again, and they began to discuss their ideas for exploring. They bounced suggestions off each other, laughing and dreaming about the possibilities.
"Maybe we could even take a day trip somewhere," Harvey suggested, his excitement evident.
"Like where?" Lia asked, intrigued.
"There are some beautiful coastal towns not too far from here. We could spend the day at the beach, maybe even have a picnic," he said, grinning at the thought.
"That sounds amazing! I'm in!" Lia exclaimed, feeling a surge of happiness.
As they continued to plan, she felt a sense of contentment settle over her. Being with Harvey felt so natural and effortless, and she couldn't wait for all the adventures that lay ahead.
"Oh, good, you're home," Emma said, quickly pulling Harvey aside and whispering in his ear. "I love how happy you are, and I don't want to ruin it for you, little brother, but... your ex-girlfriend, Kim Chae Jin, is here."
"What is she doing here!?" Harvey asked, his expression darkening with frustration.
"I don't know, but she's in the kitchen with Mom," Emma replied.
Harvey took a deep breath. "Alright, I'll handle this. I need you to take Lia upstairs and keep her distracted."
Emma nodded. "Okay, I will." She quickly led Lia upstairs, leaving her puzzled and wondering what was going on.
Meanwhile, Harvey headed to the kitchen, bracing himself as he prepared to confront his ex-girlfriend.
As Harvey stepped into the kitchen, he was met with a familiar face he hadn't expected to see again. Kim Chae Jin was seated at the kitchen table, chatting with his mom as if she were a regular guest. She looked up when he entered, a smile on her face that faltered slightly at his expression.
"Harvey, it's been a while," she greeted him, trying to sound casual.
Harvey crossed his arms, giving her a measured look. "Yeah, it has. So, what brings you here?" His tone was firm, making it clear he wasn't in the mood for pleasantries.
His mom looked between them, sensing the tension. "I'll, uh, give you two a moment." She offered a reassuring look to Harvey and quietly excused herself from the room.
Once they were alone, Kim Chae Jin sighed, leaning back in her chair. "I know you're probably wondering why I'm here. I... just wanted to talk. There were things left unsaid, and I didn't want it to hang over us forever."
Harvey raised an eyebrow. "Things left unsaid?" He shook his head, irritation lacing his voice. "I think everything was pretty clear when you left, honestly. Besides, I've moved on. I'm with someone now, and I'm happy."
She looked down, seeming momentarily remorseful. "I know. I didn't come here to disrupt your life, Harvey. I just wanted to make peace with the past."
Harvey considered her words but kept his guard up. "Alright, you've said your piece. Now it's time for you to go. I don't want Lia to get mixed up in any of this."
She nodded, standing up. "I understand. I'm glad to see you happy, Harvey. Really."
Without another word, she walked past him, heading toward the door. Harvey watched as she left, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. Taking a moment to steady himself, he went upstairs to find Lia, hoping she hadn't picked up on the tension.
When he reached their room, Lia looked at him with curiosity. "Is everything okay?" she asked softly.
Harvey smiled, pulling her close. "Everything's fine now," he reassured her. "Just a little unresolved past, but it's finally taken care of."
Lia squeezed his hand, understanding without needing details. "I'm glad, love. Let's focus on us."
Harvey leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to Lia's forehead. "Absolutely," he murmured, grateful for her unwavering support.
They settled in for a quiet evening, watching a movie and sharing stories about their day. But as much as he wanted to shake off the unexpected encounter, Harvey felt a lingering tension. He knew that Lia was sensitive to his moods and wouldn't press him, but he also knew she deserved complete honesty.
After a moment of silence, he turned to her. "You know, love... earlier, when my sister pulled you away, it was because my ex showed up," he admitted, his voice calm but firm. "She said she needed closure, and I wanted to be straightforward with you about it."
Lia's face softened as she listened. "Thank you for telling me," she said, reaching for his hand. "That must have been difficult. Are you okay?"
He nodded, feeling a sense of relief at her understanding. "I am now. It just caught me off guard, but seeing you here, by my side, reminded me why that part of my life is behind me."
Lia smiled, her hand resting on his shoulder. "I'm glad you feel that way. Whatever happens, I'm here with you."
They sat there, wrapped in each other's presence, the earlier tension replaced with gratitude and love. As the night stretched on, they let go of the past and looked forward together, more certain than ever that they were exactly where they were meant to be.