Second Chances | Seulrene AU

Seulgi stood in the hallway outside Joohyun's apartment, hands slightly trembling as she checked the time again: 11:36 PM. She glanced at the bouquet of white tulips in her hand and the carefully assembled snack basket sitting beside her on the floor.

Each item was chosen with care: Joohyun's favorite snacks, a set of purple pens with a matching pouch, and a pair of purple fuzzy socks that screamed comfort- just like Joohyun's personality.

Seungwan and Moonbyul had just left to pick up the food, leaving Seulgi alone with her thoughts. They had helped her decorate the hallway with string lights, a soft banner that read "Will you go on a date with me?", and pastel-colored balloons that added a whimsical charm to the setup. The whole hallway now carried an intimate glow, thanks to Moonbyul's efforts in dimming the floor lights.

But none of it felt perfect to Seulgi- not yet. She nervously adjusted the angle of the banner for the third time before pacing back and forth.

"This is it, Kang Seulgi..", Seulgi muttered to herself.

The sound of soft laughter echoed in her mind as she imagined Joohyun's reaction. She wanted it to be perfect, to show Joohyun just how much she cared.

===

Earlier in the evening, Seulgi had to negotiate with the building's owner to mess with the floor's lighting, something Moonbyul eagerly volunteered to handle. The tenants on the floor had been surprised but understanding once Seulgi explained- and bribed them with a little cash for their trouble.

"It's for love!", Moonbyul had declared dramatically, making Seungwan roll her eyes.

As the time ticked closer to midnight, Seungwan had asked Seulgi if she'd contacted Joohyun at all.

"I didn't, if I did, I probably would've spilled everything. You know how bad I am at keeping secrets.", Seulgi admitted sheepishly. The other two had exchanged knowing looks before Seungwan spoke next.

"You're right. It's better this way. She'll be surprised.", Seungwan agreed.

"Or she'll think you're a stalker for bribing the entire floor and messing with the lights.", Moonbyul added with a grin.

"Thanks for the vote of confidence.", Seulgi deadpanned, earning a laugh from both of them. Before leaving, Seungwan patted Seulgi's shoulder.

"You've got this. Just let her see the Seulgi we all know and love.", Seungwan assured and Moonbyul nodded.

"We'll bring the food once she's here. Good luck, lover girl.", Moonbyul added and Seulgi smiled, appreciating their help and support.

===

Now, standing alone in the decorated hallway, Seulgi felt her heart hammering in her chest. Every detail had to be perfect because tonight wasn't just about confessing- it was about showing Joohyun that she mattered, that Seulgi had been paying attention to all the little things.

As the clock neared 11:45 PM, Seulgi crouched down to pick up the snack basket, her thumb brushing over the fuzzy socks.

"You've got this...", Seulgi whispered again.