CHAPTER eighteen

Aera hummed as she stared at her reflection. She was wearing her school uniform and getting ready for school, and it felt like God was making up for her ruined birthday since today had a good start so far. She knew that Sehun sent her home when her mother was away, and she realized that he never forgot her birthday as he left her a gift and a handwritten note. Also, Krystal texted and wanted to make up for the previous night since she didn’t celebrate Aera’s birthday with her, and her father’s secretary came by with a message for her to meet with her father.

However, the wide smile that was plastered on her face soon disappeared as a bad omen greeted her at the gate. Kai was about to hop in his car, and he was wearing a suit that accentuated his figure and made him look mature and serious. Yet, before Aera could be tricked into thinking that he was different, he smirked at her, and she once again remembered how he would usually call her a .

Yet, there was also someone on at the gate who stole Aera’s attention. It was the bullied girl, who upon seeing Aera began to smile and wave.

Jaera beamed and tightly clutched the paper bag as soon as she heard Aera’s gate open. Aera was by far her favorite neighbor, and she immediately bought her a present upon overhearing from Krystal that it was Aera’s birthday. Jaera actually went to knock on Aera’s door the previous day, but to her disappointment no one was home. “Aera unnie!” Jaera squealed.

Aera was confused, since the girl seemed really happy to see her. “Hi, Jaera right?” Aera rid of her glare and smiled at the young girl.

Jaera grinned back and surprised Aera with the pink paper bag. “Happy birthday, unnie.” Jaera whispered before putting the gift in Aera’s hand and running shyly towards Kai.

As Kai watched the interaction, it seemed that he was seeing a different Aera. She looked at the present as if it was her first time receiving one. Although her face didn’t give away all of her emotions, her hands trembled as she held onto the present. For a moment, Kai felt different towards the girl in front