(Michelle Lui's POV)
Saturday morning felt different.
Not the excited buzz I had during our last "not date" date.
Not the dizzy fluttering from rooftop sunsets or lakeside moons.
Something else.
Something quieter.
Softer.
Warmer.
Like the feeling right before opening a gift you already know you'll love.
I stood at my mirror applying lip gloss — just a thin peach sheen — telling myself I wasn't trying too hard.
My heart said otherwise.
I wore a cream sweater dress with warm tights, ankle boots, and a soft beige scarf. Comfortable. Cute. Not overly romantic.
Perfectly "study date" coded.
Mom poked her head in the door without knocking, eyes sparkling.
"Ohhh… someone looks adorable."
"Mom," I groaned.
She entered anyway, arms crossed, gaze mischievous. "Where are you going, hmm?"
"Study session," I said too quickly.
"With a boy," she added.
"Mother."
"With Steven Sy," she sang.
I covered my face. "I hate this household."
