Yeri leans against the balcony railing beside you, the cool night air wrapping around both of you while the party hums behind closed doors.

“You don’t look like you’re having fun,” she said, her voice low and smooth. "It's a party. You're supposed to have fun, get drunk, make some friends.. And you're just alone on the balcony."

You respond with a soft sigh. “I just needed some fresh air.”

She studies you for a moment, eyes sharp but soft. “Or maybe you just needed to get away from him. You just want someone who actually listens,” she murmurs, stepping just a little closer. Her scent fresh and warm, wrapping around you before her next words hit like a spark. “..I could be a better boyfriend than him.”

You swallow hard, shaking your head. “Y-Yeri, I have a-”

“A boyfriend? Yeah, I know.” Her smirk is quick but doesn’t quite touch her eyes. “But look in my eyes and tell me you’re happy. Tell me you don’t feel like you’re holding your breath every time you’re with him.”

The silence between you stretches too long. She catches it, like she always does, and leans in just enough to make your pulse quicken. “I could do the things that he never did.. Up all night, I won’t quit,” she breathes, the words slipping out like a promise meant just for you.

You exhale shakily.“T-This isn’t fair.”

“Fair?”

She scoffs, stepping even closer.. so close that there’s barely any space between you now. “What’s not fair is you pretending he’s enough for you when I can see it all over your face. You deserve more than the bare minimum.” Her voice drops, softer now, more sincere. “..I'd never leave you alone in a room full of strangers. I’d be right by your side.. always.”

Your phone buzzes in your pocket. A text from him.. “Wya?”

Yeri catches the flicker of hesitation in your eyes. “Tell me,” she whispers, brushing a stray strand of hair from your cheek. “Do you really want to go back in there? Or do you want someone who actually makes you feel seen?”