Chapter 14

He was impossible to ignore tall, confident, and dressed in a sharp blue suit that fit him perfectly. His presence alone commanded the room. Heads turned, whispers began, and I wasn’t the only one caught staring.

The women in the room were visibly entranced, their smiles widening as if his arrival was the highlight of their night. Even a few men seemed momentarily struck.

He moved with a quiet grace, like he knew every eye was on him but didn’t need to acknowledge it. His white hair stood out, crisp and refined, and his piercing, crystal-clear eyes swept across the room. I couldn’t take my eyes off him.

Then he raised his hand, and his deep voice rolled out, effortlessly cutting through the noise. “Attention, everyone,” he said.

That voice. Smooth, commanding, with just a hint of warmth. It felt like he could have said anything, and I would’ve hung on every word.

Wow, you didn’t even need to ask for attention,you already had it, I thought, unable to stop the flutter in my chest.

Claudia turned toward him, her face lighting up with a radiant smile. The way she looked at him it was so full of admiration,made my heart clench. Was this her boyfriend? I couldn’t help but wonder.

The room quieted as everyone turned to face him. He smiled, his gaze softening as he extended his hand toward Claudia, who stepped closer to him.

“We’re all here tonight to celebrate a truly special lady,” he began, his voice carrying an effortless charm. A few people here do not know me.so let me start by introducing myself, I am her beloved and best friend. He said turning to Claudia.

Claudia, you are the reason this room is so full of life, of joy, of love. You bring out the best in everyone you meet, and tonight, we’re all here to show you just how much you mean to us.”

The room stilled, every gaze locked on him as his voice resonated with warmth and admiration. He turned slightly toward Claudia, his piercing eyes softening as he spoke.

You are a woman of strength and elegance," he continued, stepping closer to her. "The way you chase your dreams, the way you lift others as you rise,it’s inspiring. And let’s not forget your laughter. It has this magical ability to turn even the darkest days into something beautiful. I don’t think anyone here tonight can deny how special you are.

A ripple of agreement passed through the crowd, soft smiles and nods echoing his words.

Tonight isn’t just about celebrating your birthday; it’s about celebrating you. Every achievement, every struggle you’ve overcome, every moment you’ve made unforgettable. You bring so much joy to the lives of those lucky enough to know you. Cheers to a wonderful lady, Happy birthday Claudia,he said, planting a kiss on her forehead.

The crowd broke into applause, but he didn’t let go of her hand. His gaze stayed on her, filled with admiration, and for a moment, it felt like the two of them were the only ones in the room.

It was a breathtaking display of devotion, the kind that left everyone including me completely captivated.

Claudia’s cheeks flushed, her smile widening as the guests clapped and cheered. Watching her beam with happiness.  

My brother, everyone Claudia exclaimed, raising his hand triumphantly as the crowd erupted in applause and cheers. Relief swept over me. Her brother? For a moment there, I thought he was her boyfriend.

 I decided to step out of the party for some fresh air. The night was calm, the cool breeze brushing against my skin. Starring above,the stars were shinning brighter than ever tonight. 

Smiling to myself, I glanced at my phone. It was getting late. I should head home I murmured, turning to leave only to bump into someone.

Before I could react, the cold splash of wine hit my cheek and dress.

"I'm so sorry," came the deep, velvety voice.

I looked up, and my breath caught. It was him,the man who had commanded the room just moments ago. He looked as stunned as I felt, hastily pulling out a small cloth to dab the wine from my face.

it's fine, I stammered, but his touch was gentle, his closeness intoxicating.

His piercing eyes locked with mine, and for a moment. I couldn’t look away, and judging by his expression, neither could he.

Oh, there you are Claudia’s voice broke the spell, making us both jump. She gasped as she saw my dress. Luna, what happened?

Before I could respond, he spoke up. "It’s my fault," he said quickly, his voice filled with genuine remorse. 

Claudia looked from him to me, concern etched across her face. Luna, I am so sorry,I could get you one of my dresses to change into.

No, no, I protested, shaking my head. It’s really not necessary. It’s not that bad, and besides, it’s already dark.

Are you sure?" she asked, still worried.

I nodded reassuringly. Absolutely.

Claudia smiled and gestured toward him. Well, since you’ve both met,Luna, this is my brother, Minho. Minho, meet my new friend, Luna.

He extended his hand, and I hesitated for just a moment before placing mine in his. Nice to meet you, he said.

Nice to meet you too, I managed, finally tearing my gaze away from his captivating eyes.

Turning back to Claudia, I smiled. Claudia, thank you so much for inviting me. I had a wonderful time, but I really should head home now.

Thank you for coming! Claudia said warmly, pulling me into a hug. It meant so much to me.

As she pulled away, she turned to Minho. Come on, Minho, I need your help with something.

She walked off, leaving us standing there once again.

Once again, I'm sorry Luna,he said, his voice laced with sincerity. Before I could respond, he slipped off his suit jacket.

Listen, Minho, it’s really not necessary," I began, but he shook his head, insisting.

It’s the least I can do, he said firmly, draping the jacket over my you can keep it.

Caught off guard by the gesture, I finally relented. Thank you, I murmured.

He nodded, a faint smile on his lips. Take care, Luna.

And with that, he turned and walked away.

I stood there, watching him until he disappeared from sight, the weight of his jacket still warm around me. Letting out a deep sigh, I whispered to myself, Luna, you’ve always thought love at first sight was a fairytale but now?

My heart raced as I turned back toward the starry night. Maybe it’s not such a fairy tale after all.

When I got home, I couldn’t shake the memory of him, his deep voice echoing in my mind, and that lingering warmth from his jacket around my shoulders.

I sat on the edge of my bed, his jacket still draped over me. Without thinking, I brought it to my nose, inhaling the faint scent. My cheeks flushed, and I shook my head.

Come on, Luna,I muttered, tossing the jacket onto a nearby chair. What is wrong with you? You don’t even know him.

Desperate to clear my mind, I grabbed a book from my nightstand and tried to lose myself in its pages. But the words blurred together, my thoughts drifting back to the evening and to him. Before I knew it, my eyes grew heavy, and i dozed off. 

When I opened my eyes, the world was different.

Everything around me was stark white,the walls, the floor, even the ceiling. My vision was blurry, and I squinted against the harsh overhead lights. I could hear the steady beeping of machines somewhere nearby.

Where am I? I asked weakly, my voice barely above a whisper.

A figure leaned over me, clad in scrubs and a face mask. Their voice was gentle but unfamiliar. You’re in the hospital, Luna.