Chapter 67: Busy..

Ji-Ah had barely settled into the car when Evelyn placed a small box on her lap.

"What's this?" Ji-Ah asked, eyeing it curiously.

Evelyn smirked. "Open it."

Ji-Ah hesitated before unwrapping it, revealing a delicate bracelet with an elegant, understated design.

"It suits you," Evelyn said, starting the car.

Ji-Ah traced her fingers over the cool metal. "You didn't have to get me anything."

"I wanted to." Evelyn glanced at her before focusing back on the road. "Now, let's go. I have the whole night planned."

Ji-Ah wasn't sure what to expect, but when they arrived at the restaurant, she was pleasantly surprised. It wasn't an extravagant, high-profile place—just a cozy rooftop setting with soft lighting and a serene atmosphere.

"You picked this?" Ji-Ah asked as they stepped inside.

Evelyn placed a hand on her back, guiding her forward. "I know you prefer quieter places."

Ji-Ah remained silent for a moment before murmuring, "You really do notice things."

The dinner turned out to be unexpectedly enjoyable. Evelyn kept the conversation light, avoiding any teasing, and Ji-Ah found herself at ease. They talked about random topics, past experiences, and even some personal stories that Ji-Ah wouldn't normally share so easily.

At one point, Evelyn reached across the table, brushing her fingers lightly against Ji-Ah's. "You look beautiful tonight."

Ji-Ah felt warmth creep up her neck but simply scoffed. "You're just saying that because I'm actually talking to you."

Evelyn chuckled. "That might be part of it. But it's still the truth."

Ji-Ah turned her attention back to her plate, a small smile playing at her lips.

After dinner, instead of heading home immediately, Evelyn took her for a quiet drive through the city. The distant glow of streetlights reflected off the windows, and Ji-Ah leaned against the seat, feeling unexpectedly at peace.

"You're not bad at this," Ji-Ah admitted.

Evelyn glanced at her. "At what?"

Ji-Ah hesitated before replying, "Taking me out."

Evelyn smirked. "So, does that mean next time you'll say yes without a fight?"

Ji-Ah rolled her eyes. "Don't push it."

But she didn't deny it.

By the time they reached home, Ji-Ah was exhausted and ready to collapse into bed. But the moment they stepped into their room, Evelyn shut the door behind them, arms folded.

"You ignored me all day," Evelyn said, tilting her head slightly. "I think that means you owe me something."

Ji-Ah raised an eyebrow. "Owe you?"

Evelyn took a step closer, her gaze steady. "You didn't answer my calls, barely looked at me when I showed up, and acted like I was invisible."

Ji-Ah exhaled. "I was just busy."

Evelyn hummed, unconvinced. "Busy pretending I don't exist?"

Ji-Ah sighed, already knowing where this was going. "I wasn't ignoring you on purpose."

Evelyn leaned in, hands resting on Ji-Ah's waist. "Then make it up to me." Her voice was soft but firm, her touch warm.

Ji-Ah met her gaze, feeling the familiar pull between them.

And this time, she didn't argue.