Stigma Love's Algorithm [ A BTS x Reader Poly ]

Chapter 5: The Next Step

I stepped out of the car, adjusting my dress nervously. "I don't know why you're being so polite. I'm probably going to knock over a chair or something."

Suga raised an eyebrow, clearly amused.

"You'll be fine. I've got you."

And as we walked into the café, I almost believed him.

The place was small but warm, with just a few people scattered at tables, their conversations a low murmur.

We were led to a cozy corner booth, and as soon as I sat down, I found myself glancing at Suga.

His gaze was steady as he slid into the seat across from me, his eyes not leaving mine.

"So, what's your deepest, darkest fear?" he asked, a teasing glint in his eye.

I snorted, nearly choking on my drink. "You really want to know? Well, I'm terrified of accidentally making a fool of myself. Or tripping over something. Or-"

Suga raised his hand, cutting me off. "Okay, okay. No need to go into specifics. I get it. But, if I'm being honest... I'm a little nervous, too."

That threw me for a loop. "Wait, you? Nervous?"

"Of course. This is a date. I've never been one to do things by the book, and this whole 'soulmate' thing is a bit new to me. But..." His gaze softened, and he smiled.

"I'm glad it's with you."

I felt my heart flutter in my chest. I wasn't used to hearing someone speak so sincerely, especially when I was still trying to figure out what this whole thing even meant.

But hearing him say that made me feel like I was actually seen.

And for once, I didn't feel like I was stumbling through everything on my own.

"Okay, no more talking about nerves," I said with a grin, reaching for my menu. "Let's talk about the important stuff. Like food. I'm starving."

Suga chuckled, shaking his head, but I could tell he was still looking at me in that soft, thoughtful way.

The way his eyes lingered on me made my heart race, but in a comforting, almost heady way.

"I think that's a good idea," he said. "But just so you know, I'm not letting you off the hook. I want to know more about you."

"I can't just be known for my clumsy, awkward charm?" I teased, raising an eyebrow

"Of course you can," he said, his voice laced with affection. "But I'm guessing there's more to you than that."

And just like that, the night felt less like a nerve-wracking ordeal and more like something real-something that I was willing to try. Something that we were willing to try.