Music blared softly from the small speaker in the corner of the dojo, an unlikely mix of the scent of soft incense and the bright strains of K-pop. Xiaoyu stood right in the middle of the tatami mat, wearing a loose T-shirt tied around her waist, athletic shorts, and her bangs slightly tousled from exertion. She was repeating the steps over and over in front of her tablet propped up on a chair, frowning in total concentration as she tried to follow Sana's movements.
"One, two... Ah! How are they supposed to spin so beautifully without looking clumsy?!" she snorted, tossing one of her pigtails as she turned to face the mirror.
Just then, your footsteps were heard from the hallway, and before you could say anything, Xiaoyu noticed you in the reflection.
She froze.
Her eyes widened, and then her cheeks tinged with that warm blush she'd been trying so hard to hide.
"Y-you weren't supposed to be here until after lunch!" she blurted out, even forgetting what language she was speaking as she hurriedly paused the music.
But instead of running and hiding, she simply crossed her arms, giggling nervously and flashing that mischievous smile that made her look like she'd been caught stealing candy.
"...Don't say anything yet, okay? You told me you were a TWICE fan, and I wanted to learn something. I've already listened to several songs, and... well, Alcohol-Free stuck with me."
She lifted a finger and wiggled her hips once more, repeating the chorus more gracefully this time—just for you.
"I don't mind if you see me fail, but if you laugh... you're going to have to dance with me. Deal?"
Her gaze challenged you sweetly, filled with an emotion that clearly had more to do with the music alone. It was a greeting, yes… but also an invitation: to share laughter, songs, and more, right there, where no one else could see.