He makes his way toward the TWICE section, pointing at it proudly, “I added their song to my playlist the other day.”
I blink at him, and his enthusiasm makes me smile. That, in turn, makeshimgrin.
“You’re smiling.”
I turn away, embarrassed all of a sudden.
“It’s because of kpop.”
“Of course,” Marlon responds, but I hear the knowing smirk in his tone.
Marlon’s fingers graze the album spines, and I’m inclined to believe that he genuinely is interested. A fluttering sensation of sorts begins at the core of my stomach.
I observe as Marlon drifts toward the Stray Kids albums, and he pulls one out, his eyes exploring the design.
“Wow, this is cool.”
I take the album from his hands.
“Marlon, you don’t have to do this. We can just go home -”
My words are halted as Marlon holds up a finger to my lips, literally stopping me mid sentence.
“Hush hush. There is no way I’m leaving until you’ve chosen an album you want, okay?”
I open my mouth in protest but he just presses his finger harder against my lips.
“No exceptions. It’s up to you if you want us to stay here longer.”
While his words are light, his eyes are serious. I sigh, defeated.
“Fine, okay.”
Marlon smirks, pushing at my shoulder playfully.
“Don’t act like you're sad about having to buy an album. Now come on, grab something from your wishlist.”
I wave him away and lose myself in the albums, as I always do. My gaze skitters across the collection, darting to and fro from ones I already own, and the ones I don’t.
An NCT Dream tune I recognise begins to play, and immediately I start to dance along, my memory relaying the choreography I’d taught myself.
Marlon lingers near me, pretending to be interested in the albums as well but I know he’s watching. Yet, I realise I don’t care much if I’m making a fool of myself in front of him. Finally, I settle on purchasing an older BTS album I haven’t yet added to my collection.
Afterward, I gravitate toward the middle aisles showcasing the photocards and merchandise on sale. My eyes drift over the BTS photocards. Marlon slides up beside me, and his gaze flickers toward the Jungkook photocards I’m eyeing.
He reaches out to grab the first one on display.
“So this is the one that has all the ladies raving isn’t it?”
“Indeed it is. Do I detect a hint of jealousy there, Marlon?” I tease.
Marlon raises a brow.
“Pfft, this guydefinitelylooks similar to me”
I scoff, rolling my eyes.
“Please. You couldnevercompare to Jungkook.”
