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

Chapter 7: The Tension In The Air

--Flashback-

Suga's POV

It had been a few weeks since the update meeting for the LoveMap App.

In that time, I had learned to compartmentalize, burying thoughts of her beneath the layers of work that made up my days.

But despite my best efforts, there was a part of me-an annoying, persistent part-that couldn't stop noticing her.

At first, it was subtle.

I'd catch her out of the corner of my eye in meetings, or maybe in the break room when she was getting coffee.

There was no obvious reason for it, really. She wasn't special, at least not in any way that would make her stand.

And yet, there I was, constantly observing her, trying to read her in those brief moments when our paths crossed.

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It was a busy Wednesday morning when I saw her passing by my cubicle with a brief glance in my direction.

I wasn't sure if she remembered our last exchange a few months back, or if she even cared to, but I felt the pull to speak to her again.

"Hey," I said, leaning back in my chair as she passed. My voice was casual, but my heart rate was slightly faster than usual.

She paused, her eyes meeting mine. She looked almost surprised, as though she hadn't expected me to speak to her.

"Suga," she replied with a small smile a blush creeping at the base of her neck and ears. "What's up?"

...cute.

"I was just thinking about that encryption idea you proposed. You know, the one where I mentioned was 'old-fashioned,'" I said, leaning forward, trying to sound nonchalant despite the flicker of amusement I felt.

"Turns out, I might have been too quick to judge it."

Her brows arched in surprise. "Really? Well, I'm glad you came around," she said her tone playful, but there was something in her voice that suggested she was waiting for me to explain myself.

I shrugged, trying to keep the mood light. "I might've been a little harsh. But I have to admit, your approach isn't as outdated as I initially thought."

Y/N crossed her arms, a smile tugging at her lips. "I'm not sure if that's a compliment or a backhanded one, but I'll take it."

I couldn't help but laugh, the sound genuine and unguarded.

It wasn't often that someone got under my skin like this, but Y/N had a way of making me feel... disarmed. It was both frustrating and oddly exciting.

"I'll just say this," I said, leaning back in my chair with a smirk. "You definitely keep me on my toes. It's... impressive."

She tilted her head slightly, studying me for a moment.

Her confidence seeping through "I could say the same about you. Though I'm not sure if you're always trying to impress me, or if you're just bored."

My smile widened, her playful challenge sparking something in me. "Maybe both," I said, standing up from my desk. "You never know with me."

Before she could respond, I turned and started walking toward the break room, my thoughts still lingering on the conversation.

There was something about her that made me feel... uncertain in a way I hadn't felt in a long time.

Like she had the ability to pull me out of my carefully constructed shell.