Work Text:
°°°
Mira.
She’d picked a new dance studio to practice at, deciding she wanted another location than the one in their penthouse and she’d rented it from morning til evening, wanting to work more on her routines. She didn’t know how long she’d been in there for but she worked through every choreography until her muscles ached, refusing to leave until everything was perfect.
Rumi and Zoey had left earlier claiming that they were worn out and needed rest, encouraging her to do the same but she declined. They had even tried to bribe her with movie night but it had made her want to stay more.
She knew what it would mean, it would be another movie that Rumi would pick and fall asleep to within the first five minutes. Zoey would then take chance to cuddle against her until she fell asleep too, she couldn’t handle another night of holding the girl that she loved in arms and not being able to tell her how she felt.
So she’s decided to keep her distance until she’s gotten over her feelings for her. She didn’t want to feel the stabbing pain in her chest every time Zoey mentioned how cute someone else was or how overly friendly she was to every person they’d meet to the point that it came off as flirty. She knew she didn’t have a chance being with her romantically but she also didn’t want to witness the love of her life batting her eyelashes for other guys. Zoey had told her that she was just joking most of the time but it didn’t help ease her jealousy at every interaction.
She had been staring at the mirror for who knows how long with her fists clenched until she heard the studio door open. It startled her and she watched as a pretty girl walked in and paused, her widened when she noticed it was just any girl but none other than Imogen Lee. She’d recognised the half British half Korean singer from a couple of the award shows she’s attended with the girls, they’d never once interacted but judging by the surprised look she’s receiving she assumed that she knew who she was too. Not to sound conceited but she was in one of the biggest girl group in the world as of now.
They stared at each other for a solid minute before finally speaking at the same time.
“Hello.” They both bowed in greeting before freezing again.
“Was there something you needed?” She politely asked, not wanting to be rude.
Imogen looked awkward and held up a piece of paper. “I booked this studio from 5-7.”
She shook her head, slightly confused. “I’ve booked this place from 7am to 10pm.”
The girls face fell and turned her sheet back around to read it before facepalming. “Oh my mistake, I seem to have booked it from 5am until 7am.”
“Easy mistake.” She reassured, awkwardly fidgeting where she stood.
Imogen sighed, playing with her chestnut hair and then bowed. “Sorry for the intrusion, I guess I’ll come back another time.”
She watched her turn as she turned to leave and guilt pooled in her stomach, reacting before she could think. “Wait, you can have the space, I’ve been here the whole day already anyways.”
The brunette spun around so fast. “Are you sure?”
The excitement on the girls face threw her off but she just shrugged, picking up her phone and duffel bag from the floor. “Yeah it’s all yours.”
“Actually Mira…” Imogen started, moving closer. “I know you’re probably busy but I’d love to get a dancer’s opinion and critiques on this dance I’ve been working on.”
She paused for a moment, torn between being polite and staying or declining to avoid the awkward atmosphere.
Just then her phone buzzed with a text from Rumi. It was a picture of Zoey blushing while holding a bouquet of roses with the caption ‘someone has a secret admirer’. It wasn’t that much of a secret, she knew the flowers were most likely from Saja Boy’s Mystery who had taken a liking to their friend.
Zoey deserved a better floral bouquet than basic roses that didn’t require any thought to purchase.
She grit her teeth and shut her phone off, dropping it onto the floor with her bag. “Sure, I don’t have anywhere else to be.”
Imogen squealed in excitement and began unpacking her bag. “This is the first time I’ll be playing my new song for anyone besides my team so you can’t tell anyone that you get to listen to it before I release it.”
“Lucky me.” She grinned, the tension on her shoulders easing. “I’m great at keeping secrets.”
“Mhm you seem like the broody, secrety type.” The brunette also grinning as she extended her hand out to her. “I know we already sort of know each other’s names but we should do an introduction, I’m Imogen.”
She smirked and gently grabbed her hand. “Mira, it’s nice to meet you.”
“We’re going to be the best of friends Mira.” Imogen beamed, giving her hand a squeeze.
To say she was blown away was an understatement. Imogen was a superstar and a force to be reckoned with, she wasn’t up there as a professional dancer but she made up for it with her Aura. If she was this awestruck from just watching her perform in a studio, she couldn’t imagine how great it’d be to watch her on stage. She had learnt majority of the steps to her choreography and joined in beside her to mimic her moves too so she can get a feel for it.
She observed every dance movement and took mental notes of things that could be improved on and relayed everything back to her. She kept improving every time she restarted and before they knew it, it was already 10 o’clock.
They both packed up and stepped outside into the cold night air, she was starving and was ready to get home to her bed. She offered to walk her to her car given that she’s not worried about defending herself if needed given that she’s a well trained fighter.
“Thank you for tonight.” Imogen said gratefully. “I really enjoyed myself and you’ve helped me improve so much.”
“Yeah it was no problem, I enjoyed myself too.” She smiled. “You’re an amazing performer.”
“You are too Mira.” The girl smiled politely before hesitating. “Would you be open to meeting here again tomorrow? I think I could still get better with your help.”
Her phone buzzed again but this time from Zoey, her heart dropped at reading her message.
“I miss you.”
She took a deep breath, quickly closing the app to create a new contact and holding out her phone. “Yeah I’ll be free so just send me a message.”
Imogen lets out her second squeal for the night and she quickly adds her number in. “You’re the best, I owe you one.”
Imogen’s car unlocks when they reach it reach it and she quickly opened the door for her. “It’s alright, just get home safe.”
“Do you want a ride back to Huntr/x tower?” The brunette politely offers.
She quickly shook her head in protest. “I have my car just over there, plus the entrance is a paparazzi hotspot so probably not a good idea.”
After a few more thank yous and goodnights were exchanged she’d waved at the car as Imogen drove away before finally making her way home.
As soon as she reached the penthouse she was met with silence and the first thing she noticed was Zoeys small figure splayed out on the sofa.
She must have fallen asleep waiting for her.
Sighing she quietly made her way over to check on her. She gently picked her up she made her way to her bedroom and carefully placed her on the bed to tuck her in.
She couldn’t help but admire her for a few seconds before slowly closing the door behind her as to not wake her.
“Mir?” A sleepy voice startled her, making her jump.
“Rumi, you scared the crap out of me.” She whispered, grabbing her arm to move her away from Zoey’s door and towards the kitchen.
“Sorry.” The purple haired girl sleepily mumbled. “Have you been at the studio the whole time?”
“Yes I just got home, I’m starving.” She admitted guiltily, already bracing herself for the lecture.
“You’ve got to take care of yourself.” Rumi lectured while handing her a container of fried rice with pork. “It’s almost midnight and I know you haven’t eaten since lunch.”
“Ugh you’re a godsend.” She moaned, popping it in the microwave before turning to face her. “And I am Ru. I just lost track of time today, no biggie.”
“It is a big deal, we’ve been worried about you.” Her friend giving her a knowing look. “Especially Zoey.”
She sighed at the mention of her name. “I know, I’m sorry.”
She’d been getting the same lecture from both girls for the past few weeks. She had been throwing herself more and more into her work recently, trying to maintain any semblance of being okay when it literally felt like she was drowning in her unrequited feelings.
She didn’t say anything else as her food finished reheating but with the way Rumi was looking at her, she figured she didn’t need to. They could always read each other very well and it was both a blessing and a curse but she’s grateful that they understood one another without needed to say things out loud.
“Now give me a bite of your food before I head back to bed, it’s almost midnight.” Rumi smiled.
Smiling back, she scooped a spoonful of her rice and fed it to her. “Now go to bed.”
Her friend gave her a quick hug before walking away while throwing up a peace sign.
She chuckled to herself then she ate in silence while staring at the bouquet of roses sitting on the dining table. She pushed it further away from her with a scoff, she needed to get over her feelings for her friend and she needed to do so fast.
°°°
“What do you mean you’re meeting with Mystery?” She panicked. “As in a date?”
It was the next morning and Zoey had just woken her and Rumi up to get their opinion on what to wear.
“It’s not a date, he just messaged me and asked to go brunch.” Zoey explained. “As friends.”
“How’d he even get your number anyway?” She asked, voice cold and face scrunched in annoyance. “And it sure sounds like a date.”
Beside her, Rumi stays quiet. She could tell she’s observing the scene in front of her but she couldn’t care less.
“He messaged me on insta and it’s fine, it could just be him being friendly.” The dark hair girl naively suggested with a shrug. “It’s just one outing, it’ll be fine.”
She watched as Zoey walked back into her closet to change into something else. She could feel Rumi’s eyes on her but she avoided looking her way, she felt a burning jealousy in the pit of her stomach and she just needed to get away. She didn’t want to watch Zoey get dolled up for some guy who didn’t deserve her but she didn’t want to be a bad friend either because her feelings are her own to deal with and it wasn’t fair to blame Zoey for them.
It was like her prayers were answered as her message notification went off, a text from Imogen or ‘Immy’ as she’d saved herself on her phone.
“Hi I’m heading to the studio in 10 minutes, I’ve only booked it for an hour but hopefully you can meet me there?”
She shot a quick reply back agreeing before standing up.
“Are you leaving?” Rumi asked looking up at her.
“Wait who’s leaving?” Zoey suddenly bursts out of the closet half dressed.
Lord take her now, she needed some damn air.
Clearing her throat, she nodded. “Yes, I have plans but I’ll see you guys later.”
She dropped a quick peck on Rumi’s hairline and blew a kiss to Zoey who just scrunched her brows in a frown on her way out. She knew should’ve given her a proper goodbye but it was best this way, avoiding all physical affection was a good way of getting over her feelings for her. She’s already lost one family, she wasn’t going to ruin their dynamic as a trio all because she wanted to ruin their friendship.
She decided she liked hanging out with Imogen. She was a breath of fresh air and helped keep her mind off Zoey. When the hour was up she found herself disappointed that they were going their seperate ways so when the brunette asked if she wanted to go somewhere for lunch she quickly agreed and so thats where they were now, sharing their food at a little ramen restaurant.
“So tell me about Zoey.” Imogen casually said as she reached over with her chopstick to steal some beef from her noodle bowl.
She nearly choked at the mention of her crush and immediately blushed. “Why do you want to know about her?”
“Because you’re in love with her.” She stated, as if talking about the weather.
This time she actually did choke on her food and began coughing uncontrollably as Imogen handed her glass a glass of water.
She quickly downed the liquid before slamming the glass on the table. “What makes you think that?”
“Online chatter and videos of you staring at her like she’s your whole world.” The brunette shrugged. “It’s okay, there’s no shame in your sexuality, whatever it may be.”
“I’m not ashamed, I just don’t do labels. I am who I am.” She grit out through clenched teeth. “And don’t believe everything you see online.”
“Well you haven’t outright denied it yet.” She smriked. “Are you two together? Don’t worry I can keep a secret.”
This girl must have some magical powers or something because she laid everything out there and then, from when she realised her feelings to her emotional turmoil of having to hide it and also ranting about Zoey’s date with Mystery today.
Imogen listened to her talk and chimed in little comments and questions here and there. By the time she was finished she realised she probably shared more than she needed to but her new friend didn’t seem to mind as she grabbed a piece of chicken from her bowl to feed her which she let her.
“You’ve been struggling with this for so long Mira.” She gently said. “I bet it felt good to finally let it out.”
She could’ve cried right there because it was a relief to finally have someone to talk to about it. The girls were all she had and she couldn’t risk sabotaging everything they’ve built by speaking about what she was going through.
“Thank you for listening Immy.” She spoke softly, voice cracking slightly. “I feel a lot lighter now.”
°°°
She met up with Imogen everyday for the past two weeks just to hang out and she found herself easing up a lot more. She and Zoey hadn’t spoken much but she’d listened to her about how her date and watched the bouquet of roses pile up on the dining table. It was getting more and more difficult to be in the same vicinity as her but she made the effort to not pull away as much given that Rumi had spoken to her about missing her, her little time away hanging out with her new friend was more than enough to keep her sane. However, her luck had run out and she couldn’t be with the other girl today.
She sighed at not being able to meet with Imogen today due to her work schedule, which meant she had no excuse to avoid Zoey.
She felt someone drop down on the couch beside her and her breath hitched knowing who it was.
“Hi Mimi.” Zoey mumbled, looking upset.
Instantly putting her phone away, she turned her full attention to the downtrodden girl. “Hey what’s wrong?”
“Have I done something to upset you?” Her friend sniffled, eyes big and shiny with tears.
“It feels like you’ve been avoiding me.”
The guilt hit her like a truck. “No you haven’t done anything wrong.”
“Then why doesn’t feel like I have?” Zoey’s voice cracked as she spoke.
Her heart broke and she broke her rule about not being physically affection with her, she couldn’t stand not comforting her while she was upset. “Come here.”
Zoey climbed onto her lap sideways, tucking her head underneath her chin before mumbling. “I just miss you.”
“I miss you too.” She replied back softly, giving her hair a kiss. “I’m sorry I haven’t been around, I’m just working through stuff right now.”
“What things?” Zoey pulling back in worry. “You know you can tell me anything right?”
She couldn’t even get herself to look into her eyes for too long or else she’d end up confessing everything so she gently cradled her head back onto her chest. “It’s nothing Zozo, everything’s okay.”
They remained silent for a couple minutes, just holding onto one another until the elevator dinged. Zoey quickly scrambled off her lap, quickly fixing herself as she sat there feeling numb.
“Hey guys.” Rumi greeted as she walked into view holding a bouquet of roses. “Zo these came for you again.”
She scoffed and rolled her eyes. “You don’t even like roses.”
“Yeah but it’s a nice gesture.” Zoey blushed as she placed the roses on the coffee table. “I already told Mystery he didn’t need to keep sending them.”
She scowled as Rumi gave her a knowing look before throwing an arm around her as she sat down next to her. “I’m glad you decided to stay home today Mira, I feel like we never see you anymore.”
“Don’t worry, one more week of this break and we’ll be right in each other’s space constantly again.” She reassured before adding. “You’ll be begging for more space.”
Zoey and Rumi shared a look that she didn’t like.
“Um actually, about that…” Zoey started.
Her eyes widened and she began to frantically shake her head. “No, no I want my one more week, please just give me one more week.”
“Sorry Mir, Bobby wants us to attend tomorrow nights music awards.” Rumi explained.
“Why do we need to go to an award show that we don’t even have any nominations in.” She groaned.
“He said it’ll be good to start showing ourselves to fans again and that it’s also good to show how supportive we are of other artists.” Zoey chimed in.
“Plus the Saja Boys are nominated and our label wants us publicly supporting them since we’re under the same company.” Her purple haired friend said looking apologetically. “We’ll be seated beside them.”
The numbness she felt yesterday hadn’t left yet as she posed for photos on the red carpet alongside Saja Boys.
During the event they were seated front row for the cameras, Rumi was in between herself and Zoey but that also meant she had to watch Mystery hit on Zoey every chance he got. No one seemed to notice her ire, even Rumi who was eyeing Jinu.
She didn’t bother to plaster a fake smile on her face when Saja Boys won their award, grateful for being known for her resting bitch face so it worked in her favour.
Her only saving grace was knowing Imogen was nearby, but she still hadn’t seen her. She went to send her a text when the host announce that she would be performing her new single that was releasing tomorrow and there on the stage was her friend smiling at her.
For the first time that night she smiled and stood up alongside everyone to support her, her irritation forgotten as she focused solely on the girl on stage. She didn’t catch the cameras and her friends watching her as she sang along, completely forgetting that the song was unreleased and no one knew the lyrics yet but she’d listened to it so many times in the dance studio with Imogen while she helped her with the choreography so she knew them off by heart.
By the time her performance was finished everyone was on their feet clapping as she bowed and walked off stage. She cheered the loudest for her and excused herself from the group to go meet her backstage but she didn’t need to walk that far as Imogen was already making her way towards her and so she met her half way.
Imogen threw herself at her in excitement, laughing she wrapped her arms around her waist and spun her around.
“You were amazing!” She praised, pulling away but still keeping hold of her. “You nailed your performance.”
“I literally couldn’t have done it without you.” The brunette replied, pulling her back into a hug. “Seriously, thank you.”
“Do you want to leave together after the show and go to a club to celebrate my new single.” She continued.
“Hell yeah I would.” She enthusiastically nodded her pink head. “I would like to change out of this outfit for a more appropriate one though so just send me the details.”
“You can change at my place, I’m sure there’s something for you to wear there.” The brunette beamed. “You’re a fashion icon you’ll make anything work.”
She rolled her eyes but nodded. “I’ll meet you outside then.”
“Okay well I gotta go talk to my team but I’ll see you later.” Imogen hugged her one more time before walking and blowing kisses.
She just laughed and rolled her eyes as she waved back goodbye.
Turning back around to her friends, she noticed there were a lot of eyes on her. Her face dropped back into her usual expression and made her way back to her seat, this was going to be a long night.
She kept her distance from the Saja Boys as they all walked out of the building, fans already screaming as rain lightly drizzled on them. An umbrella was held over her by her security guard as she went to greet the fans.
After signing a few posters and taking a lot of photos, she made her way to the car where the two girls were waiting for her. They looked like they had a thousand questions and she was grateful she had a reason to dodge them.
“I’ll be home later.” She announced. “I’m catching a ride with Imogen since we have plans together.”
“What plans?” Zoey asked, seeming upset. “I didn’t even know you two knew each other.”
“Yeah we met a couple of weeks ago…” She explained, feeling like she’d done something wrong. “I helped with her dance choreo actually and we just kinda started hanging out.”
Zoey looked even more upset so she went to say something to her but Rumi cut in.
“That’s good Mir. It’s no wonder she was amazing, we’ll just see you at home then and stay safe.” She gave her a quick hug before entering the car leaving Zoey standing there, who seemed to not know what to do with herself.
She didn’t know why but she’d definitely done something to upset the shorter girl so she pulled her into a hug. “Are you okay?”
“I’m okay Mimi.” Her breath felt hot on her neck as she nuzzled deeper into the hug before finally pulling away. “I’ll just see you at home.”
It seemed like the fans had gotten louder as they watched the scene unfold in front of them but neither of them cared and she carefully guided Zoey into the car, gently closing the door and waving them off.
She started making her way to another black car and got in, Imogen already waiting inside, teasingly smirking at her.
“What?” She scowled.
“Nothing.” She shrugged, still smirking. ”Let’s go get drunk and celebrate.”
°°°
Zoey.
She shouldn’t have agreed on that one brunch with Mystery because if Mira was a little distant before then she’s a million miles away now.
She could sense her pink haired friend’s irritation every time the Saja boys spoke, especially Mystery whom she seemed to hate the most. God this award show couldn’t end fast enough.
She was about to tell Rumi to swap seats with her when she saw Mira’s face light up as she stared up ahead. She turned to look to where her eyes were and there on the stage was the singer Imogen Lee, smiling back at her Mira like they’ve known each other forever.
She felt sick.
To make things worse, Mira was actually enjoying herself and singing along to the song when she’d been stoic the entire time except for now.
Her heart clenched as the performance ended and she watched Mira and Imogen meet to embrace, never taking their hands off each other and she wanted to cry.
She hasn’t seen her friend happy like that in what felt like forever and the fact that she was so at ease with this new girl hurt even more.
“Hey are you okay?” Rumi whispered beside her.
She nodded and looked away, not trusting herself to not breakdown if she were to try and talk.
Once they were outside she interacted with the fans for a minute and couldn’t help but admire how much Mira loved their fans, taking the most time with them as she watched by the car.
She swallowed the lump in her throat as Mira hugged her and proceeded to help her get into the car. She wanted to cry and ask her not to leave and to just come home with her but she remained silent as she shut the door.
She remained quiet until they got home and thankfully Rumi got the hint, allowing her the space she needed as she shut herself in her room.
She went on her phone to distract herself which turned out to be a big mistake. ‘Miragen’ was trending number one followed by ‘Zoemira’. She couldn’t help herself and began reading through everything, looking at photos and videos from the event. She scrolled for hours, feeling her heart break at every nearly every post.
‘@hunter67: Okay Mira and Imogen are an unexpected duo but I don’t hate it.’
‘@MIRAcle: anyone notice that Mira already knew the lyrics and was subtly dancing along? They must be really close because didn’t that song just come out tonight👀’
‘@zoemira_fan: be for real right now because the Zoemira hug outside had more chemistry then Miragen’s hug.’
“Damn right.” She mumbled grumpily.
@steponmeRumi: ‘my queen Rumi smirking as Mira glared at Mystery when he got in Zoeys space.’
‘@ibarkforMira: if Miragen is real then I’m happy for her, she deserves to be loved because it was so sad seeing her constantly pining for you know who.’
Who were they talking about? She refreshed the page and thousands of new posts appeared of the same video under Miragen.
She let it play and her breath stopped.
The video was clearly shot by a fan from a distance but it was very obviously the two at the club.
Imogen mouthing the lyrics of the song playing and jokingly grinding her body against Mira’s, leaning her head back onto her left shoulder while the pink haired girl playfully ran her hands up her body from her waist to her arms that were raised in the air before twirling her around as they laughed.
She was going to be sick, she threw her phone onto the side and sat there for a few minutes. A knock sounded from her door but she ignored it.
“Are you really okay Zo?” Rumi quietly asked as she entered her room and this time she didn’t bother lying as she shook her head no, letting out a sob.
“Oh Zoey.” Arms around her as she broke down. “It’s okay, I’ve got you.”
She cried even harder because she wished it was Mira holding her right now but Rumi just held her for a while until she felt herself slipping into unconsciousness in her arms, feeling absolutely drained from crying.
When she woke up the next day she could hear chatter coming from outside her room. When she opened her door she was surprised to see Mira sitting down looking hungover on the couch next to Rumi while Bobby paced back and forth in front of them.
When Mira spotted her she stood up so fast, wincing in pain and clutching her head. “Zozo.”
She barely acknowledged her, keeping her face neutral and instead went to sit beside Rumi. She watched her face fall before clearing her throat and sitting down again.
“What’s going on?” She asked Bobby who sighed.
“This is what’s going on.” He said, sounding stressed as he pressed play on the tv remote.
There on the screen was Mira and Imogen attempting to push through a crowd of fans and paparazzi as they tried to leave the club. One of the paparazzi had grabbed at Imogen’s arm as she yelped in pain and her eyes widened as Mira completely lost her cool, reaching for the paparazzi shoving him away and stomping on his expensive looking camera before taking hold of Imogen’s hand, everyone around them seemed to part for the two after that.
It was seriously the hottest thing she’d ever seen except she hated she was with another girl.
“That guy had it coming.” Rumi scowled. “He’s lucky that’s all Mira did to him.”
She could see said girl’s smirk from the corner of her eye.
“Yeah I don’t see the big deal.” Mira piped up. “I was protecting my friend.”
She couldn’t help but feel hopeful at the mention that they were just friends. She really needed to have a talk with her just to confirm but now was not the moment and she was still hurt and exhausted from everything.
Bobby tugged on his hair before sighing. “It’s bad publicity, the label isn’t happy. We’re just coming back from your hiatus and we don’t need the media turning against you plus a lot of them are making assumptions about your sexuality.”
“The fans opinions are the only thing I care about.” Mira’s voice turning ice cold. “They can make all the assumptions they want about me but my sexuality is my own and I won’t be forced to label or hide who I am, I don’t owe anyone anything.”
She and Rumi nodded in agreement.
“Yeah fuck them.” She couldn’t help but defend her girl.
Mira turned to her with a giant grin at hearing her curse and she blushed, immediately folding under her gaze.
“You’re right, I’m just always worried about you girls.” Bobby explained, thinking of ways to change up the story. “Maybe we can change the narrative from ‘Most aggressive HUNTR/X member’ to ‘Most protective’ instead. The fans will eat it up and these news outlets will have to change their tune once we address it.”
That was how they found themselves im front of a talk show interview later that night, talking about new music and when their next album was coming. The atmosphere and energy was great until the interviewer asked about what had happened the night before with Mira, Imogen and the paparazzi scuffle.
Mira the ever so poised, was very calm and lighthearted in her response. Both Rumi and her excitedly backing up their friend, maybe to the point of ruining her bad girl rep.
“Mira here is very protective of people she considers friends and family.” Rumi stated. “If there’s ever a problem she’ll make sure to deal with it because she loves hard.”
She found herself smiling softly at Mira as she added onto what their leader said.
“Yes she’s a big softie, she literally wears the cutest bear Pyjamas!” She giggled, forgetting to tone it down as she wiggled in her seat. “She’s always up for cuddles and she takes very good care of everyone.”
The host chuckled and the smile droppped from her face a little as he said he’s next words. “Im guessing the cuddles were more for you Zoey? You seem like the annoyingly clingy type.”
His words hit her harder than she expected, he probably meant it as a harmless joke but it felt like she was back in high school again feeling isolated and her parents berating her for being too annoying.
Rumi’s eyes widened in surprise and Mira tensed beside her, she could see the deathly glare she was directing towards the host. It seemed everyone was holding their breath.
The interviewer tried to back track but the damage was already done.
“We’re all just very affection people.” Rumi quickly interjected, trying to diffuse the situation before Mira could respond.
The interviewer looked uncomfortable as he and the crowd awkwardly laughed, the tension thick as Mira looked ready to blow.
“Do you usually insult your guests when they come on your show.” The pink haired girl spoke in defence of her before the man could change the subject.
“No no I meant it as a joke.” The interviewer nervously laughed, trying to ease the tension.
Rumi went to say something but Mira beat her to it. “Well I must have of missed the punchline.”
Oh god she wanted to cry, she wanted the couch to swallow her up with how embarrassed she was for causing the awkward situation.
She took note of how white Mira’s knuckles had turned, looking about a second away from summoning her Gok-Do out of thin air.
She placed a hand on her knee to calm her down.
“It’s okay Mimi, just let it go.” She whispered, eyes glossy.
“No it’s not.” Mira turned to her intertwining their hands as her eyes softened before returning her glare back to the host. “That video of me destroying the paparazzi’s camera isn’t even a quarter of the hell I want to release right now.”
The fans in the crowd silently cooed and awed at her protectiveness and the interviewer quickly apologised for his words, clearly not meaning to upset her. She felt relieved once the interview was over, Mira never once letting go of her.
They didn’t talk the entire drive home, hands remaining linked until they were in their penthouse, Rumi giving them both a squeeze before disappearing into her room.
“So…” Mira leaned on her bedroom door, clearing her throat before continuing. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah.” She quietly replied. “You didn’t have to defend me but thank you.”
“I’ll never let anyone talk crap about you Zo, especially not in front of me.” Mira’s folded arms dropped so she could clench her fists again.
“Yeah I know Mimi.” She mumbled, looking away. “You’re like so protective of Rumi and me, also your new girlfriend now too.”
She knew that she had mentioned they were just friends but she couldn’t be too sure.
“Imogen isn’t my girlfriend, she’s just a friend.” Mira shook her head. “She’s straight and I’m in l-“
The pink haired girl cut herself off before she could finish her sentence before carefully selecting her next words. “I’m not interested in her. We were just drunk and jokingly dancing around, that’s it.”
She looked down remaining quiet, she felt relieved yet the weight still felt heavy between them.
“If I destroyed that guys camera last night for hurting my friend then I’m not sure what I would have done if it had been you.” Mira quietly confessed. “I would’ve set that whole place on fire.”
“You’re so sweet Mira.” She softly smiled, blushing. “But you don’t have to protect me all the time.”
She must of said the wrong thing because her friend’s face dropped and she physically started to close herself off again.
“Yeah you’ve got your boyfriend so I don’t have to be around anymore.” Mira’s expression turned deadpan, her voice monotone. “And since when have you called me by my actual name? I like that you’re the only one that calls me Mimi.”
“What boyfriend?” She asked confused. “Are you talking about Mystery?”
“Yeah that guy.” Mira scoffed before mumbling quietly to herself. “He should’ve stayed away and remained a mystery.”
“He’s not my boyfriend.” She chuckled in amusement. “We went out on one brunch as friends and that’s all we’ll be.”
Mira’s face relaxed before scrunching up again. “Then why does he keep sending you those cheap roses.”
“Because he can’t take a hint, he wants to be more but I told him I’m not interested.” She groaned.
“I’ll talk to him, set him straight.” Her friend grit out. “You should’ve told me sooner.”
“When would have I been able to?” She frowned. “You’ve barely been at home and it turns out you’ve preferred hanging out with that Imogen girl lately, I’m assuming that’s why the two of you are close.”
She wanted to cry again.
At least Mira had some sense to look a little guilty. “I don’t prefer hanging out with her, I was just going through some stuff. Plus I’m allowed to have other friends.”
“See that’s what I mean.” She snapped. “You say you don’t prefer her yet she’s the one you went to when you’re going through stuff when you barely even know her!”
The taller girl just stared like a deer caught in headlights so she powered on.
“Rumi and I are your best friends and we don’t even know what’s been going through your head now because you don’t tell us anything.” She rambled then paused when she saw an even guiltier expression Mira’s face.
“Even Rumi knows something?” The realisation hit her like a tonne of bricks and she felt her throat closing up. “So it’s just me then, do you not trust me anymore?”
“Zo–“ Mira reached out but she’s faster, stepping back to put some distance between them.
“I knew I wasn’t crazy, you really have been avoiding me and pulling away.” Tears flooded her eyes now, making everything blurry as she angrily wiped them away with the back of her hand. “What did I do to make you hate me so much?”
“No I don’t hate you, please don’t cry.” Mira panicking at seeing her turn to leave and wrapping her up in a hug.
She just stood in her arms, sobbing into her chest as Mira tried to soothe her. After a taking a few minutes to calm down, she gently pushed against her chest in attempt to leave so she could tend to her broken heart alone.
“Please don’t go.” The other girl begged, refusing let go, her hands squeezing tighter around her midriff. “Just please let me explain.”
She could never deny her anything so she stayed, her hands still on her chest but no longer pushing away, there was practically no space between them and she could practically feel her breath as she looked down at her, faces too close together.
Mira looked as if she was choosing her next words carefully but she couldn’t seem to decide on it as she remained quiet for too long, looking absolutely terrified.
She sighed after a few minutes of waiting for her to speak, deciding to give her an out she raised her right hand to tuck a strand of pink hair behind her ear and gently pulled away. “It’s okay, why don’t we just give each other space for now?”
The gap between them only lasted only a split second, the other girl holding onto her again as she towered over.
“No. No more space.” Mira spoke, sounding very determined and pulling in more.
“You know you’re going to have to let go eventually right?” She released another sigh and swallowed her frustration. “If you’re not going to explain anything then it’s best if we just–“
Before she could finish her sentence Mira leaned in to capture her lips. She reciprocated the kiss embarrassingly fast but she didn’t care, Mira bent lower and placed her hands behind her thighs to lift her. She wrapped her legs around her waist as she was carried effortlessly into her room, their kiss never breaking as she lowered them onto her bed.
God this girl was going to absolutely ruin her but she didn’t care as she pulled her deeper into the kiss.
°°°
Mira.
She couldn’t believe this was real. She stared at Zoey, watching her breathing even out as she finally came down from her high. She carefully traced every curve of her body with her fingertips making sure she was real, so afraid that she was only dreaming right now.
It was as if her Zoey was feeling the same as she gently pushed herself up onto her elbows to stare down at her before dropping a kiss to her jaw. She tilted her head down unable to help herself from taking the opportunity to capture her lips again.
She felt her smile in to the kiss before pulling away slightly. “I can’t believe this is real.”
“Me too.” She whispered back against her lips. “I’ve been wanting this for so long.”
“Why didn’t you just tell me?” Zoey quietly asked, sitting up to sit beside her. “I’ve felt you pulling away for a while now and I thought that if I gave you space you’d eventually come talk to me when you were ready.”
She looked ethereal looking down at her, the warm light from the lamp shining golden on her bare skin as she modestly held the sheet against her chest. She couldn’t believe she was lucky enough to witness such a beautiful sight.
Unable to help herself she pushed herself up to place a kiss on her shoulder before replying.
“I’m sorry I just thought it was better if I stayed away. I couldn’t lose you.”
She had hurt the person she loved the most because she was scared.
“I’m sorry for putting you through that, it was super cowardly of me.” She regretfully confessed. “I didn’t think about how it would make you feel.”
Zoey remained quiet as she reached out to intertwine their hands, just allowing her to say all the unspoken words she’d been holding back for so long.
“You and Rumi are the two most important people in my life, I didn’t want to ruin the dynamic and friendship we’ve spent so long building but I was fooling myself.” She sniffled, as the other girl looked at her so tenderly.
“I love you both but in such different ways, it scared me and it was torture trying to deny the fact that I’m in love with you.” She explained. “Rumi knew instantly and I couldn’t deny it any longer so when I finally accepted my feelings for you I also prepared myself for the fact that you might not feel the same way.”
She didn’t miss the way Zoey’s breath hitched at hearing her say that she was in love with her. She’d finally said the words aloud and she’s never felt freer.
“It also took me a while to understand what I was feeling, yeah I’m pretty sure Rumi also knew before I did.” The darker haired girl said, lifting their hands up to kiss it. “And when I did realise it I was terrified too, I thought I was going to lose you so I kept it to myself but then you began pulling away and it seemed like I was going o lose you either way.”
“I’m so sorry.” She quietly whimpered. “You could never lose me completely Zozo, I’ll always come back to you, in whatever way you wanted even you just wanted to just be friends.”
“It’s okay.” Zoey reassured, climbing onto her lap to straddle her and letting go of the sheets as it bunch up around her waist, no longer covering her. “It’s also a good thing I don’t want to be just friends.”
She smiled at her words, she’d never felt pure bliss like this before. “Be mine then.”
“Only if you’ll be mine.” She giggled, peppering her face with soft kisses.
“I’ve always been yours.” She responded by pulling her into a deeper kiss.
She poured every feeling and longing she’d ever withheld from her into it. She’d never imagined that she would ever get a chance to be with Zoey and now she’d gotten a taste there was no way she was ever letting her go.
The End.