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I quickly got up from my bed and picked up the phone, fumbling to put it on speaker.
"Hello, Star. What happened?" I asked, trying to hide the worry in my voice.
"Phuwin, I already talked with Ivy, my girlfriend, and sheâs totally fine with it," she said hurriedly, sounding relieved.
"Oh, thatâs great news. Pond is fine with it too," I replied with a small smile. "Ok then, bye! I have a date with Ivy," Star added quickly before hanging up without waiting for my response.
I put my phone down, shaking my head at how rushed she always was, but I couldnât help smiling. Even though weâd only known each other for a short time, Star was a genuinely kind and understanding person.
I turned to Pond, a mischievous smirk spreading across my face. "Wanna continue where we left off?" I teased, trying to lighten the mood.
He crossed his arms, rolling his eyes. "No, my moodâs ruined," he said flatly, though I could see the faintest twitch of a smile on his lips.
I laughed softly, reaching for his hand. "Alright, alright, Iâll stay with you tonight," I said, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.
Pondâs expression softened, and I could see the flicker of happiness in his eyes, but he tried to act casual. "Then what will you tell your mom?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
I sighed, leaning back on the bed. "Iâll just tell her that Star wanted me to stay over at her apartment tonight. She lives alone, so itâs a believable excuse," I said, already preparing the mental script for the lie.
Pond nodded, tugging on my hand as he stood up. "Then letâs go downstairs and tell my mom. Sheâll be happy youâre staying," he said, pulling me along.
We headed to the kitchen, where his mom was cleaning up after lunch.
"Mom, Phuwin is staying over tonight," Pond said nonchalantly, leaning against the counter.
His mom froze for a moment, then turned to us with wide eyes filled with excitement. "Really? Oh, really?!" she exclaimed, practically jumping with joy. "Itâs been so long since youâve stayed here, Phuwin! Iâve missed having you around. This is wonderful! Iâll cook all your favorite dishes tonight!"
Her enthusiasm made my heart swell. She was always so warm and welcoming, treating me like her own son. I smiled shyly and said, "Thank you so much, Mom. Youâre always so kind to me."
She waved her hand dismissively. "Nonsense! Youâre part of this family, Phuwin. Now go, you boys enjoy yourselves. Iâll get started on dinner right away!"
Pond chuckled, his hand brushing against mine as he leaned in. "See? I told you my mom likes you more than me," he whispered, teasing me.
I nudged him lightly, laughing as we made our way back upstairs. In moments like these, I felt a little less burdened by the weight of the lies I had to tell. Being here, surrounded by love and acceptance, gave me a glimpse of what life could be like if we didnât have to hide.
-To be continuedâªï¸
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Guys, please tell if it was bad or notð¥²