Introduction

From Kai's POV

The bell rang.

The last day of school is finally over. My best friend Alicia rushed to my side, tugging my sleeve as she frantically said, "C'mon Kai! Don't look so grim! School's over!"

I tried to conjure a smile but Alicia's not having it. She hardly taps my back multiple times, "Don't worry! I'm sure you can graduate with all those A's you've been collecting!" I smirked at her sarcastic remark. "There! Now you're smiling. We've got to prepare for our graduation party. Let's go!"

She grabbed my bag and then dragged me out of our classroom, never letting go of my sleeve.

I've always admired Alicia. She's always so lively even way back when we were kids. Even I don't understand why we became friends in the first place. Much more developed these feelings I have for her. Al brings a sense of tranquility whenever she's around.

She twirls around before petting someone's dog.

No matter how ironic it may sound. There's more to her. I could never see myself being with someone other than her. I shook my head, making the thoughts disappear. Before I knew it, we were already at a boutique.

I broke into a long sigh knowing we'll be here for hours. "The graduation party is next month. It's too early to buy dresses."

Al waves her finger. "No, silly. Not 'that' graduation party. Stephanie's."

I should've known. That girl just won't leave me alone. I should think of a possible excuse to avoid that party.

I composed myself before Alicia could see my contorted face. She excitedly looked at me, pointing at a teal gown "Look! This dress looks good on you!"

Apparently, she convinced herself that I was gay. Not that it matters, I'm used to it. She always asked me to play along at her tea parties. So you can imagine that my childhood was filled with frilly dresses while she matched me up with another guy I barely knew.

But surprisingly, it doesn't bother me in the least. As long as I spent it with her.

Believe me, the thought of holding her hand in public warms my heart but I noticed that all her friends are girls. Maybe she'll accept my confession and we'll live happily ever after but, she might friend-zone me and things will be awkward from then on. And I can't risk that. I'll just stick to giving her clues. I'm not rushing.

My hand slides at the smooth tuxedo while I wait for Alicia in a corner. There's a really good blue suit in the middle rack but there are so many people hanging around there. My low social battery forbids it. This black tuxedo will do.

"Oh em gee! Kai! Look at this!" Alicia emerges from the fitting room and time seems to slow down as if the world itself is in awe at her beauty. The red (semi-appropriate?) dress hugged her curves perfectly as it draped down the ground without crease. It's accompanied by a silk shawl gently placed on her forearms. She definitely looks like a naughty socialite. "So. How is it?" Al gave me a little twirl.

I couldn't stop my mouth from dropping. "Wow... You're so beautiful. And perfect." Everything stopped making sense except for one thing. All I know is that I'll be the luckiest guy if she'll give me a chance. No, Kai! Keep it together!

My heart skipped a beat. Why would you say that? Now you're a sussy baka! I don't know what came over me. Maybe it's the unkempt bun or her sunshine smile. But, regardless! I should pick the right time.

Al blushed. "Aww. Thanks! You're such a sweet friend." She coyly slaps my chest.

Why don't you just stab me directly in the heart? I'm sure it's less painful.

Alicia struts, practicing the weight of the dress. "You know, I have 10 more dresses to try but I kinda wanna buy this one since you're all so--" She imitates my reaction a while ago with exaggeration.

"Yup. Definitely stick to that one." Mainly because she'll take forever and I don't wanna be here when the store closes.

"Now, it's your turn to pick." Al beams at me.

I grabbed the black tuxedo from the rack. "I already got one."

She pouts. "But there's a white cute dress with a feather band I want you to try... It'll really bring your twink features to perfection!"

What is she rambling about?

It was a struggle stopping her from picking more things when we were already in line to pay. I carefully dragged her outside so as to not damage the red dress she was wearing. However, I must say, it took a lot of convincing for Alicia to let me settle for a tuxedo. She just wants me to wear it now. I can do that. Easy!

"Now we're officially ready for the party!" Al waved her hands in the air.

Right. The party. My parents will launch a new product this week. Yup, that'll be my excuse. "So when's the party?" I asked as we left the boutique.

"Tonight! And worry not my friend, I already asked your parents and they said yes!" Alicia breaks into a squeal.

"WHAT?!"