(7.9k words) I did this in one night cause for some odd reason it flowed to me so I ran this through Red bull. hope you guys enjoy.
Life changes fast. Faster than most people realize. It keeps moving no matter what happens, whether someone is ready for it or not. Time does not pause for heartbreak, fear, or hesitation. It simply continues forward, dragging the world with it.Ten years can reshape everything.Trends are born and buried within weeks. Opinions shift overnight. Society follows every new wave that rises across social media, chasing what is current while discarding what is not. Those who remain stuck in the past are often forgotten, left behind without a second glance.
And the eyes of society have become sharper than ever.
Judgment now comes easily, handed out by strangers who know nothing beyond a screen. Ordinary people can be picked apart for how they look, how they speak, what they believe. A single moment can become a label that follows them for years. So imagine what it must be like for someone whose life has always been watched. Someone expected to smile correctly, speak carefully, move gracefully, and remain flawless beneath thousands of eyes. One mistake. One rumor. One wrong step. And the foundation they spent years building can begin to crack.
Leeseo knew that better than most.
Trained to become an idol while still young, much of her life had been mapped out before she was old enough to understand it fully. There were rules to follow, boundaries not to cross, words she could say and words she could not. She was taught early that dreams could disappear just as quickly as they arrived, like dust caught in the wind. There were things taken from her along the way. Pieces of an ordinary youth traded for practice rooms, cameras, schedules, and expectations too heavy for someone so young. But she endured it all. Because she believed the sacrifices would mean something someday. Because she believed if she worked hard enough, stayed strong enough, and trusted herself enough, the future waiting for her would shine brighter than everything she had lost. And for a long time, it did.
Success had never come to her as easily as people assumed.From the outside, it looked effortless, bright lights, polished smiles, sold-out stages, and the kind of beauty people envied from behind their screens. But behind every graceful performance were years built on exhaustion, pressure, and surviving storms she had never asked for. There had been allegations. Rumors. Misunderstood moments twisted into headlines. Words thrown at her by people who had never met her, yet spoke as if they knew everything.
Every controversy, every whisper, every cruel comment became another step she was forced to climb. None of it was easy. None of it was gentle. And each experience, whether she wanted it or not, shaped the person she had become now at twenty years old. Older. Wiser. Far more tired than she should have been. Sometimes, Leeseo wished she could go back and scold her sixteen-year-old self, the girl who once begged to grow up faster. Because adulthood, she had learned, was not freedom wrapped in sunlight. It was responsibility. Loneliness. Compromise. It was smiling while exhausted. It was carrying expectations no one else could see. It was wanting things you could not have and pretending that did not hurt.
When she was younger, she thought becoming an adult meant finally being free to enjoy life however she wanted. And in some ways, that was true. If you were truly free at all. Leeseo knew now that she lived inside a bubble made from the very dream she once chased so desperately. A beautiful bubble, glittering from the outside but still a bubble nonetheless. It decided where she could go. Who she could meet. What she could say. What she had to hide.
And the cruelest part was that she had built it herself.She had always been a dreamer. A full-time dreamer, once upon a time. Her mind used to race with endless possibilities, with hope so large it could drown every fear. But lately, that engine inside her, the one that made her believe in tomorrow, felt broken. Out of service. Silent. As if it had quietly left one day and never planned on returning. She used to believe first times were sacred. Your first love. Your first kiss. Your first hand to hold. Your first hug that made your heart race.
To her, those moments were meant to be treasured forever.But outside her bubble, the world seemed to treat such things differently now. Love had become casual. Promises temporary. Bodies replaceable. Loyalty negotiable. People betrayed each other with the same ease they once said “I love you.” Commitment was laughed at. Sincerity was mistaken for weakness. And affection, something once precious, was traded around like currency.
Leeseo could only shake her head at it all. Maybe she was old-fashioned. Maybe she was naïve. Or maybe the world had simply forgotten how to love gently. Whatever the reason, one thought had slowly settled into her heart over the years: Love, in this generation, felt futile. It did not help that some of her fellow idols seemed to think the same way. To them, fans were little more than numbers. Fuel. A loyal crowd meant to lift them higher while remaining below, cheering from a distance as they rose further out of reach.
Leeseo knew this because she had seen it herself. And it disgusted her. She had once been a fan too, long before the stages, before the cameras, before people knew her name. She understood what it meant to admire someone, to save photos on your phone, to wait for comebacks, to find comfort in music made by people you may never meet. She would always be a fan of K-pop in some way. Which was exactly why the disrespect hurt so much. Because she knew fans did not love halfway. They gave time, money, energy, loyalty, and pieces of their hearts to people they believed in. To treat that devotion like something disposable felt cruel.
Yet she could never say any of this aloud. She had been trained too well. Smile politely. Answer carefully. Never cause trouble. Never reveal too much. So instead, she kept quiet and poured every unsaid thought into the pink diary she had owned since she was twelve years old. Its cover had faded over time, the corners softened by years of use. Inside it lived every version of her. The excited child, the exhausted trainee, the rising idol, the lonely young woman trying to understand herself. She wrote in it every night, especially on days when her chest felt too heavy with words she could not speak. One particular ent ry held a sentence she returned to often:
Love is old-fashioned for you, Hyunseo.
It was true. Love would always be old-fashioned to her. She had grown up watching her parents love each other quietly and faithfully. No grand performances. No games. No chasing attention. Just patience, respect, laughter in the kitchen, soft apologies, and hands that still reached for each other after all those years. That was love to her. Steady. Kind. Certain.She knew her standards because of them. She knew what kind of person she hoped for someday, someone who would not complete her, but walk beside her honestly. But sometimes, in the silence of her room, Leeseo wondered if love had simply never been meant for her. Because perhaps she had sacrificed it the moment she chose her dream. The only kind of love she had ever been openly allowed to receive was from fans. And she did love them for it. She loved them for the cheers, the letters, the patience, the way they stayed beside her through every era of her life.
But what if one day they didn’t? What if they became disappointed in her? What if they walked away? Then who would she be? People always told her the same thing, that she would not be Leeseo without her fans. It was meant as praise.But to her, it sounded like a warning. Because beneath all the applause and affection was the fear she never admitted aloud: If their love disappeared… would there be anything left of her at all?
Her favorite place to disappear was the university near their dorms. Not a café. Not a luxury store. Not some hidden celebrity lounge. A library. It was the one place where she was allowed to exist as herself, not Leeseo, not the polished idol people adored, but Hyunseo Lee. Just a young woman trying to understand life one quiet day at a time. Inside those walls, she had space that belonged only to her. Space where no cameras followed, no managers checked schedules, no strangers judged the angle of her smile. She could simply sit by the window, tuck her legs beneath her chair, and lose herself in the fictional worlds she loved so much. She adored action novels with reckless heroines and impossible stakes.But romance novels were her true weakness.The kind with accidental hand touches, stubborn leads who slowly fell in love, confessions under rain, and endings that promised warmth after hardship. There had been one afternoon when she read a scene so unbearably sweet that she squealed before she could stop herself. The librarian had immediately shushed her. And no, the librarian had not recognized her. Which somehow made it even better. For once, she was not famous. She was just another student being too loud in the library. A normal student. Well… almost normal. The reason she could come and go so freely without questions was simple: the head librarian happened to be her uncle. With a few favors, a spare access card, and his promise to keep her visits secret, the place had quietly become her sanctuary. And since most college students barely used the library unless exams were approaching, it often felt like her own private kingdom of books and silence.
That morning, autumn had wrapped the campus in soft gold. Leeseo walked toward the university gates while brown leaves scattered across the ground like crumpled paper. Each crunch beneath her boots made her giggle behind her mask, childish delight escaping in small bursts. Today, she looked nothing like an idol. No glamorous styling. No stage makeup. No expensive image to maintain. Just a girl dressed for the weather. A white cardigan hugged her shoulders over a flowery dress that swayed gently with each step. Black knee-high boots clicked against the pavement, and a pair of headphones rested around her neck, ready for whatever playlist matched her mood. Students passed by in waves around her. Some carried warm drinks with sleepy eyes and rushed steps. Some clutched folders and thesis papers like they were carrying the weight of the world. Others laughed with friends, talking excitedly about classes, professors, deadlines, and subjects she wished she had time to study herself. She watched them with quiet fascination. There was something beautiful about ordinary worries. Something precious about having the freedom to complain about homework instead of headlines. Though hidden behind her mask, a smile warmed her face. For a little while, she could pretend she belonged among them. And as the campus library came into view, tall and familiar beneath the autumn trees, Hyunseo Lee, not Leeseo, felt herself breathe easier.
Her seat was always on the second floor of the library, tucked beside the wide window overlooking the campus paths below. It had become her spot over time. From there, she could watch students hurry to class, couples share umbrellas, friends gossip on benches, and sleepy undergraduates drag themselves through morning lectures with coffee in hand. There was something strangely calming about observing lives so different from her own. It reminded her that the world was bigger than schedules, rehearsals, and cameras.
But today, something was off. The moment she reached her table, Leeseo noticed a sheet of paper resting neatly in the center. She blinked. That definitely had not been there yesterday. Then her eyes slowly lowered to the bottom half of it. Wet. Her tumbler sat innocently beside it, coated in condensation. Tiny beads of moisture had dripped down the metal surface and pooled onto the table, soaking nearly half the page.
“Oh no.”
She snatched the paper up in horror. The title read: Fluid Mechanics 101. Below it were equations, symbols, and formulas that looked less like schoolwork and more like an ancient curse. Numbers floated beside letters. Greek symbols glared at her. Fractions stacked like impossible architecture. She had no idea what any of it meant. But one thing was clear. It looked important. Very important. Leeseo’s stomach dropped.
“What do I do…?”
She glanced around wildly, already imagining an exhausted student crying over ruined notes, or worse, a furious professor hunting down whoever destroyed academic property. Then footsteps approached. Close. Steady. Getting closer. Her neck snapped toward the sound so fast she nearly gave herself whiplash. A tall figure stopped beside the table. Panic exploded inside her chest. This was it. Her identity would be exposed not by scandal, not by paparazzi, but by accidentally drowning someone’s engineering homework. She shot to her feet immediately, bowing out of instinct and fear.
“I-I’m sorry, sir,” she stammered. “I didn’t mean to—”
You glanced at her, then at the soaked paper.
“...You’re the one who ruined it?”
Your voice held something strange. Not anger. Not disappointment. Something dangerously close to excitement. Leeseo froze. It felt like one of those moments when life suddenly went off script. Like when a barista casually asks, How’s your day? and someone answers, Terrible, actually, causing the poor employee’s soul to leave their body. That was exactly what this felt like. There was no possible way someone could sound happy about destroyed notes.
“Y-Yeah,” she admitted cautiously. “I did…”
Your eyes lit up.
“Yes!”
Leeseo flinched.
“Thank God,” you said, clutching the damp paper dramatically. “You are a lifesaver, miss.”
She stared.
“Now I don’t have to recite in class, and I can finally stop pretending my dog ate my notes.”
Her brain short-circuited.
“…What?”
You pointed at the page.
“Do you know how hard it is to fake understanding fluid mechanics? I’ve been nodding at equations for three weeks.”
Leeseo looked at the formulas again. Then back at you. Then at the formulas.
Then back at you.
“…So you’re not mad?”
“Mad?” you scoffed. “Miss, I’m considering buying you lunch.”
For the first time that morning, she laughed. A real laugh. Bright and sudden behind her mask. And just like that, the most stressful thirty seconds of her week became the funniest.
“By the way,” you said casually, slipping the ruined paper into your bag, “I haven’t seen you around this library before.”
Leeseo stiffened.
“I’m Y/N, by the way.” You offered a smile that reached your eyes. “What’s your name? And what course are you taking?”
Panic. Pure, immediate panic. A name was easy. A course was not. She hadn’t expected follow-up questions. Certainly not college-related ones. Sure, she had overheard her brother complain about university classes often enough, but if she named the same major and you happened to know anything about it, she’d be exposed within minutes. If she chose some random field, that was somehow worse, because she knew absolutely nothing about those too. It was a lose-lose situation. Leeseo swallowed hard behind her mask. Think. Think faster.
“I’m… Hyunseo,” she said first, relieved one truth had escaped her lips. Then came the lie.
“I uhh… major in education.”
You nodded.
So far so good. She panicked again and kept going.
“On… umm… kids.”
Silence. Her own soul left her body. On kids? What did that even mean?
“Yeah,” she added weakly. “Kids.”
She wanted the floor to split open and claim her. But to her surprise, your face brightened with understanding.
“Ah! So you’re going to be a teacher for children. That’s cool.”
Leeseo nearly collapsed from relief.
“That means you’re studying easy math and English, right?” you continued. “I’m jealous. Meanwhile I’m out here suffering through kinematics, machine design… and of course—” You held up the soaked page dramatically.
“Fluid mechanics.” You said it with the universal exhaustion of every overworked college student.
Leeseo, who understood none of those words beyond and and of, nodded solemnly like a wise scholar. “Yes,” she said quietly. “Very difficult.”
You sighed. “You get me.” She did not.
“Anyway,” you said, shifting your bag onto your shoulder, “about that lunch—”
“You don’t have to.”
The words came out sharper than either of you expected. You blinked. Your brows lifted slightly, the smallest sign of surprise crossing your face.
Leeseo straightened. “I mean…” she said, softer now but still firm, “you don’t have to do all this. I’m fine as it is.” She needed you to understand. Distance was safer. Politeness without closeness. Kindness without attachment. That bubble she lived in existed for a reason to keep disappointment outside where it belonged. Less drama. Less noise.Less chances to get hurt. Better that way. You studied her for a moment. Then grinned.
“Well, how about this?”
Leeseo already disliked the confidence in your tone.
“Since I’m running late today, I’ll bring drinks tomorrow and wait for you here.”
She opened her mouth. You kept going.
“Or,” you said thoughtfully, glancing at the table, “I’ll just leave one right here with a note.” You pointed dramatically at the wood surface. “Drink reserved for Hyunseo.”
Her eyes widened.
“See you tomorrow,” you said, stepping backward toward the stairs. “Thanks again.”
And just like that, you left. No hesitation. No room for protest. No respect at all for the speech she had just delivered. Leeseo stood frozen beside the table, blinking repeatedly behind her mask. There was no way. No way a man had just ignored her boundaries so cheerfully. No way she had made a perfectly clear point only for him to walk straight past it with a smile. She looked at the damp Fluid Mechanics paper still in her hand. Then toward the staircase where you had disappeared. Then back at the paper.
“…Ridiculous.”
Yet for some reason, the corner of her mouth kept trying to smile. All she could do was sigh. With her book tucked against her chest, Leeseo walked back to the members’ dorm, replaying the strange encounter in her mind over and over again. What a ridiculous day. What an unnecessarily charming, confusing, disruptive day. Her sanctuary had been invaded by a man with damp notes and too much confidence. By the time she reached the dorm, she had already made up her mind. She was not going back to that library for a long time. Absolutely not.
“Gaeul-unnie, thanks for letting me borrow your book,” Leeseo said the next evening, handing it back carefully. “I liked the concept of the red string theory.”
Gaeul looked at the book. Then at her. Then back at the book. “Huh?” she said. “You didn’t return it to the library?” Leeseo blinked.
“…Should I?”
“Yes?” Gaeul laughed. “It’s due tomorrow. I must’ve forgotten to tell you. Sorry, Leeseo-ya.”
Silence. Pure silence. Leeseo stared ahead as if her soul had left the room. There was no way. No way the universe was this petty. She had dramatically sworn never to return there, and now fate itself had handed her a late fee. Wonderful. Just wonderful.
She barely slept that night. Every time she closed her eyes, her mind replayed your smug smile. Could she report you for stalking? No. Could she legally tase you? Probably not. Would it be satisfying? Absolutely. She rolled left. Then right. Then face-down. Then diagonally across the bed like a defeated starfish. Sleep never came.
So by the time she arrived on campus the next morning, she looked and felt utterly drained. Not even comeback promotions with full schedules had exhausted her this much. Yet here she was, cardigan wrapped around her, book in hand, silently praying you had forgotten your dramatic promise. The old library door creaked open. She scanned the room. No sign of you. Good. She approached the front desk and handed over the book with forced calmness. The librarian stamped the return card and slid it aside. Leeseo casually glanced around again. Still no sign of you. Good. And yet… Somewhere annoyingly deep inside her chest, there was the faintest sting of disappointment. She frowned at herself. Ridiculous.
“Um… excuse me, ma’am?” she asked suddenly.
The librarian looked up.
“Have you seen a guy come in here? Around five-seven… maybe five-eight?”
The librarian waited. Leeseo panicked and added, “Looks too mature, but also kind of like a golden retriever.”
The woman stared at her. “A golden retriever human?”
Leeseo wanted to evaporate on the spot. Why had she said that? Why was she describing a stranger’s vibe?
“N-Never mind,” she muttered quickly. “Sorry.”
Face warm with embarrassment, she hurried away. Her feet moved on autopilot toward her usual table upstairs. And then she stopped. There you were. Sleeping peacefully with your head resting on folded arms, sprawled over the table as though the library belonged to you. Beside you sat two iced lattes, both cold enough that condensation beaded down the cups. Waiting. For her. Sunlight streamed through the window and landed across your face so perfectly it looked staged, turning the scene annoyingly beautiful. Like some prince in a romance novel waiting for the heroine he absolutely did not deserve to resemble. Leeseo’s cheeks warmed instantly.
“Idiot…” she murmured.
A smile slipped onto her lips before she erased it just as quickly. Her eyes dropped to the drinks. One had a label written in marker: Supernova lover She almost scoffed. How cliché. And suspiciously informed. It was also the best drink from the campus café, a fact she knew well, because she bought it often. She stood there, uncertain. Should she wake you? Should she leave? Should she pretend she never saw this and run? But the sweating cups told their own story. You had been here a while. Waiting. Not knowing if she would come. Not knowing if she would ignore you. Not knowing if yesterday meant anything at all. Yet you stayed. That thought made something soft bloom in her chest. You should have left. You should have forgotten her. You should have lied. That would have been easier. That would have been normal. But no. You stayed. You kept your word. You waited for someone who gave you every reason not to. And in a world where romance felt cheapened, careless, and hollow, you held onto it like the last warm ember. Leeseo lowered herself quietly into the chair across from you. Then reached for the latte meant for her.
Still cold. Still sweet. Still waiting. Just like you.
“Hey… you awake?”
Her voice was soft as feathers, sweet as honey, gentle enough to slip into your dreams and pull you back to reality. Your eyes slowly opened. And there she was. Face glowing beneath the morning light, delicate and bright like something too precious to touch carelessly. Her hazel-brown eyes were kissed by sunlight streaming through the window, warm and golden at the edges. For a second, you simply stared. She was too beautiful to be described by ordinary words.
“Am I in heaven?” you murmured sleepily. “Because I’m looking at an angel in real time.”
“Guess you’re awake,” she replied flatly.
You laughed under your breath and stretched your arms, shaking off sleep as Leeseo sat across from you. She picked up the drink you bought and inspected it with suspicious seriousness.
“Milk latte. With sprinkles,” she noted. “Not my usual choice… but I’d like it.”
Then she looked at you directly. “So what’s your deal?”
Her expression remained unreadable, polished blankness perfected by years of idol training. If someone didn’t know better, they’d think she felt nothing at all.
You only chuckled. “Just wanted to be friends.” You took a sip of your drink.
“Yeah,” she said instantly. “With benefits, right?”
The silence that followed was somehow louder than the library itself. You blinked. Once. Twice. Then realization hit, and a laugh escaped you, warm, genuine, impossible to hold back.
“How in the world did you come to that conclusion?” you asked, grinning. “Like seriously, walk me through the process.”
Leeseo frowned. “I mean… everyone wants to get in bed more than they want real friendship. And the fact you’re a guy and I’m a girl—”
“Who says I’m part of the everyone you’re talking about?” You leaned back slightly, amused. That smug look on your face made her mouth open. Close. Open again. Then close once more. She hated that expression. It was the kind worn by people who thought they were different, until time exposed them like everyone else. Maybe if she pushed enough, your mask would fall too.
“Well, I just…” she started, frustrated. “I just know, okay? I’ve seen guys like you. They act friendly, wait until I’m vulnerable, then suddenly they want something else.”
You tilted your head. “That’s oddly specific.”
She stiffened. “You read that on Twitter or TikTok?” You spoke which caught her off guard.
“N-No!” The answer came too quickly.
You raised a brow. There it was. Leeseo looked away, annoyed with herself. You set your drink down and spoke more gently this time.
“Look, Hyunseo. Not everyone belongs to the everyone you’re describing.”
She glanced back at you.
“I get your point,” you continued. “You want to protect yourself. You want to move freely without being pressured into what society says you should do, feel, or become.” Your voice stayed calm, steady. “But the people you’re talking about? They’re one circle.” You tapped the table lightly. “There are other circles too.”
Leeseo went quiet. The words settled somewhere deeper than she wanted to admit. She had every reason to be defensive. She had watched the world cheapen connection, blur boundaries, turn affection into convenience. She wanted no part in it. So she built walls. Strong ones. Necessary ones. But now, sitting across from someone who had waited for her with cold coffee and no demands. she wondered if maybe she had mistaken the whole world for only one crowd.
You suddenly stood up, slinging your bag over your shoulder. “Well,” you said casually, “since I already gave you the drink I promised, I’ll be on my way now.”
Leeseo blinked. Things were moving far too fast. First, you challenged everything she had just said. Then you spoke like some annoyingly wise philosopher. And now you were leaving? Just like that? How dare you. Her chair scraped loudly against the floor as she stood so abruptly several students glanced over.
“Wait!”
You turned back. Leeseo marched a step closer, eyes narrowed.
“You can’t just leave me like this.”
“…Like what?”
“You started this.”
Her voice rose without permission. Around the room, heads slowly lifted from books. Wonderful.
“You said you were different,” she continued, “yet you’re acting exactly like them.”
“Hyunseo, that’s not—”
“If you’re going to be different, then don’t leave me like this!”
“Okay, now you’re making me sound like the villain.”
“How dare you shake up all my emotions and then just walk away an—mmph?!”
You clapped a hand gently over her mouth before she could finish. Not to be dramatic. But because the entire second floor now looked ready to witness a public breakup between two people who were not dating. Leeseo glared at you. Unfortunately for her, the glare looked more adorable than threatening.
“Come on,” you muttered.
By the time you reached outside campus grounds, you finally let go of her mouth. You exhaled deeply. Thank God no one had tried to intervene while you half-guided, half-carried an outraged tiny woman out of the library. Your relief lasted exactly one second.
Thwack.
Leeseo kicked your shin. “Jerk!”
“Ow!” You grabbed your leg. “Why are you so violent?”
“Why did you shut me up and drag me away?”
“Because you were making things weird.”
She opened her mouth to argue. Then paused. Then remembered exactly how she sounded.
Then turned bright red. And instead of admitting it, she chose violence again. Tiny fists repeatedly landed against your chest.
“Jerk! Pervert! Idiot! Douchebag! And all of the above!”
You barely felt it. It was less assault and more aggressive tapping.
You laughed. “You ran out of insults, huh?”
“Yeah, pretty much,” she huffed. “But you get the point.”
“I really do.”
Eventually, her playful attack slowed to a stop. You straightened. “So,” you said, “I still want to be friends. My offer stands.”
Leeseo crossed her arms. “And what exactly do I gain from this?”
You gestured proudly to yourself. “Me, of course.”
“Pass.”
You gasped dramatically.“What? You went off script. That’s not what you were supposed to say. Time out.”You made a giant T-shape with your hands. That finally earned a laugh from her. Small. Bright. Real. It slipped out before she could stop it. And for someone who often laughed because cameras expected it, because manners required it, or because professionalism demanded it, this one was just hers. You smiled.
“You’re insufferable,” she muttered.
“Yet you laughed.”
She hated that you were right. Leeseo looked away, thinking. Friendship was risky. Connections came with strings. Expectations. Disappointment. Pain. She knew all of that. But you weren’t from her world. No cameras. No contracts. No hidden agenda she could see. Maybe this could be different. Maybe stepping outside her bubble, even a little, wouldn’t destroy her. Maybe for once, she wanted to be Hyunseo. Not Leeseo.
“…Fine,” she said at last. “I’ll see you again tomorrow. Same spot.”
You grinned immediately.
“But don’t be late,” she added. “Or I’ll leave early.”
“There’s a reason they call me the Bird Man.”
She frowned. “Why?”
You leaned in. “Because I have a Big Di—”
“Look at the time!” she blurted, spinning around instantly. “I have to go. Tomorrow, Y/N. Don’t piss me off.” She stuck her tongue out at you in what was clearly meant to be a threatening gesture. It failed completely. It only made her look cuter. You watched her walk away, boots clicking against the pavement. Then shook your head, smiling to yourself. How could God create someone so adorable while she was actively trying to be angry? That was a mystery you fully intended to study tomorrow.
As the days passed, something about Leeseo began to change. It was subtle at first. A smile she tried to hide when walking through the dorm door. The way she clutched her phone closer to her chest whenever someone walked by. The soft giggles coming from her room late at night. How she suddenly volunteered to “go for a walk” more often than usual. How her mood seemed lighter, brighter, like someone had quietly turned the sun back on inside her. Gaeul noticed first. And once Gaeul noticed something, it was only a matter of time before everyone else did too. So one evening, while Leeseo was out, Gaeul held an emergency member meeting. A very serious one. Without the person being discussed.
“She’s smiling at her phone,” Gaeul announced dramatically.
Rei gasped. Wonyoung leaned forward immediately. “No way.”
“She keeps sneaking into her room and closing the door,” Gaeul continued.
Rei clutched her chest. “Our baby is growing up…”
Wonyoung looked ready to cry tears of pride. Meanwhile, Yujin sat with crossed arms, unconvinced. To her, romance in their industry wasn’t cute. It was dangerous. Scandals, headlines, rumors, backlash, one mistake could become a wildfire. Liz worried for a different reason. She feared heartbreak more than headlines. Leeseo loved deeply, even when she tried not to. If someone hurt her, Liz wasn’t sure she’d recover easily. Still, all five members agreed on one thing: They needed answers.
They didn’t have to wait long. One rare afternoon off, Yujin called everyone into the living room.
Even Leeseo. Especially Leeseo. She entered with her phone in hand, barely paying attention, already giggling at another ridiculous reel you had sent her. Then another meme. Then another meme reel, this time its a clip of Ishowspeed saying “Kill that boy”. She didn’t even know she found this kind of humor funny. Apparently, she did now.
“Why are we meeting?” she asked absentmindedly, still typing.
Yujin sat forward. “We’re here for one purpose only.”
Leeseo finally looked up. “…What?”
“You.” Leeseo froze. The room suddenly felt smaller.
“You’ve been sneaking out lately,” Yujin continued. “Laughing at your phone alone. Smiling to yourself. Acting suspiciously happy.” Rei nodded solemnly. “Very suspicious.”
“And,” Yujin added, “it seems there’s a guy involved.”
Leeseo’s eyes widened, only slightly, but enough for everyone to notice. Being stared at by all five members at once made her feel strangely vulnerable. Like she was twelve again, caught doing something she couldn’t explain.Thankfully, Liz moved closer beside her.
“We’re not here to judge you,” Liz said gently. “Just be honest. We won’t stop you unless it’s something really bad.”
Leeseo swallowed. Then took a deep breath.
“I made a friend,” she said carefully. “At my library spot.”
Silence. Then Gaeul slowly turned to the others.
“She has a library spot?”
Wonyoung whispered, “That’s not the important part.”
Yujin stayed focused. “A guy?”
Leeseo looked down. “…Yeah.”
“Does he know who you are?”
Leeseo shook her head. Yujin inhaled slowly, the burden of leadership settling across her shoulders. As leader, protecting her members wasn’t optional. Even from personal choices. Especially from personal choices.
“Leeseo,” she said firmly, “you’re an adult now. You’re not a kid we constantly have to remind anymore. So be smart. Be mindful of who you trust. You don’t know if people have good intentions or if they’re using you—”
“I know what I’m doing!”
The words snapped out sharper than anyone expected. The room fell silent. Leeseo herself looked startled. It was rare, almost unheard of, for her to raise her voice. She was the sunshine of the group. The softest laugh. The youngest one everyone babied. To see her angry now felt like watching summer thunder for the first time. Her chest rose and fell quickly.
“I know what I’m doing,” she repeated, quieter this time. “You all keep talking like I’m still a child.”
No one spoke. Because beneath the frustration was something they all suddenly understood. Leeseo wasn’t angry about the boy. She was angry that no one realized she had already grown up. For Leeseo, it was exhausting. All her life, someone had always been there to tell her what not to do.
Don’t say this. Don’t wear that. Don’t trust too easily. Don’t speak too much. Don’t make mistakes. Don’t disappoint people. Don’t be careless. Don’t be yourself too loudly. Ever since she was twelve, the world had handed her a script and expected her to follow it perfectly. Again and again. Year after year. Everyone seemed to know what was best for her. Everyone knew what they needed from her. Very few ever asked what she needed. And now she was twenty. Two years past eighteen. A legal adult. Yet people still looked at her like someone who needed to be managed. She was tired. So tired. Couldn’t she choose herself just once?
“You guys don’t have to keep reminding me,” she said, voice trembling with frustration as she faced her members. “I know.”
They listened quietly.
“I know I need to be careful. I know I should be wary of strangers. I know I shouldn’t trust someone just because I met them randomly, or because they say nice things, or because they might be a fan.” Her eyes stung.
“I know all of that.” She took a breath.
“I understand the consequences of my actions.” Then softer
“So please… just this once.”
Her voice cracked. “Let me choose myself.”
No one stopped her when she stood. No one spoke when she walked to her room. The door shut behind her with more sadness than anger.
She didn’t care what the others were saying in the living room. Right now, she wanted to be alone. Or rather there was only one person she wanted around. She grabbed her phone and typed quickly. Hey, can we meet at the campus? At that tree near the benches? I know it’s a bit late but… please? Ten seconds didn’t even pass. Sure. Everything okay? Leeseo exhaled. Later. Send.
She slipped out of the dorm quietly, pulling on a hoodie and mask before heading into the night. The walk was calm. Cool air. Streetlights glowing. The city quieter than usual. And there you were already beneath the old campus tree, sitting casually on a bench in a sweater and shorts like someone who had never once worried about impressing anybody. Leeseo smiled despite herself. She sat beside you.
“So,” you said lightly, “what’s up?”
She looked at the stars first. Needed courage from somewhere. Then spoke. “I’m an idol.”
Silence. Her heart pounded instantly. There it was. The truth. No more student lie. No education major. No ordinary Hyunseo from the library. She was a singer. A dancer. A performer. She had lied to you. And now she couldn’t even bring herself to look at your face. Then
“Super idol de xiào róng, dōu méi nǐ de tián—”
She snapped toward you in disbelief.
“Not the meme song from IShowSpeed!” she cried. “I’m an idol! A K-pop idol! Jesus Christ!”
You blinked innocently. “What?”
Leeseo stared at you, completely stunned. This idiot had really responded to her life-changing confession with a viral meme song.
“Do you ever take anything seriously?”
“Nope.”
You leaned back against the bench. “That’s why life is fun.”
She frowned.
“I just let life flow and see where it takes me. Besides…” You turned toward her. “I don’t really care if you’re a K-pop idol, the president, an alien, or a demon.”
Leeseo blinked.
“You’re my friend.” Your voice softened.
“And you’re a good person. That’s enough for me.”
She couldn’t speak. No shock. No fangirling. No asking for favors. No scheming. No sudden change in behavior. Just… you. A regular college guy with nothing flashy about him. And somehow, that made you stand out more than anyone she had ever met. A laugh escaped her. Small at first. Then fuller. Warmer.
“I got worried for nothing,” she admitted.
You grinned. “Then stop worrying about everything.” You nudged her shoulder gently.
“And start doing what you want to do.”
Leeseo looked up at the stars again. For the first time in a long while, The future didn’t feel like a cage. Leeseo looked at you and slowly nodded. Just do what you want to do. Such a simple sentence. Yet that night, those words carved themselves deep into her heart. Something changed in her beneath that starlit sky. Something loosened. Something woke up. Something that had been buried under years of rules, fear, and expectations.
Why?
Because the very next day, as she stood waiting near the campus gate for you, she saw you first. And unfortunately she also saw the girl beside you. Laughing. Talking. Standing too close. Leeseo did not like that. Not one bit. The excited smile she wore all morning vanished instantly. Her expression cooled. Her eyes sharpened like a hawk spotting prey. And for reasons she refused to examine, she hated that girl more than what Trae Young did to the New York Knicks in 2021. To make matters worse, the campus speakers were softly playing Love U Like That. Almost mockingly.
‘Drunk in the rain,Really old habits,Really old baggage…’
Each lyric felt like it had climbed directly into her chest. She didn’t even realize she was already walking toward you. Fast. Purposeful. Dangerously cute. You and your friend stopped mid-conversation when she appeared. Her eyes threw daggers at you. You, meanwhile, only brightened.
“Hey, Hyunseo—”
‘Goddamn, okay,You’re so attractive,How did that happen?’
“Let’s go.” Before you could react, she grabbed your wrist and pulled. Firmly. Possessively. Your eyes widened. You had never heard that tone from her before. You were kind of into it. You like this.
“Yow, Hyunseo, slow down,” you laughed as she dragged you across campus. “My class doesn’t start for another—”
‘I’m wide awake,I don’t need coffee,I know you want me…’
“I don’t care.” She kept walking. Then muttered, cheeks already heating.
“I don’t like it when she’s with you.”
You nearly tripped. Could it be?
“I mean,” you said carefully, “she’s just my friend and—”
‘And me the same,You’re so attractive,How did that happen?’
“I know!” Leeseo snapped, spinning around to face you. “But can’t you see the way she was looking at you?” She pointed dramatically back toward the gate.
“Like what?” you asked, fighting a grin.
“Like she likes you, you big dummy!”
There it was. Pink cheeks. Flustered breathing. Eyes refusing to meet yours. Heart practically audible from where you stood. The song still drifted through the air like fate itself had taken over playlist duty. You stepped closer.
“So what?” you asked softly. “It’s not a big deal, right?”
“It is because I… I…”
You leaned down, lowering yourself to her height. Close enough to admire every detail she tried to hide. Her perfectly sculpted features. The warmth blooming across her cheeks. The way her lips parted slightly whenever she got nervous.
“I… I…”
You smiled gently. “You what?”
Her breath caught. “Tell me, Leeseo.”
‘I love you like that,Everything you do just turns me on…’
“I like you.”
Three words. Eight letters. One truth.
The world seemed to pause.
‘Six o’clock in the morning, babe,Want you more than yesterday…’
You opened your mouth, ready to tease her, praise her, make her suffer just a little for all the chaos she caused. But before a single word left you, she ran. Fast. Ridiculously fast. So fast you briefly wondered if she had secretly trained for national track events. You stood there laughing helplessly as she disappeared down the path, cardigan flying behind her. Meanwhile, Leeseo’s mind was in complete disaster mode.
Did I really say that?
Why did I say that?
Can I ever return to campus?
Should I fake my death?
Yet beneath the panic, beneath the embarrassment, beneath the racing thoughts, Was joy. Pure and terrifying joy. Was this really love? Was this what old-fashioned love felt like? Could she really love like this? Questions raced through her mind like bullet trains without brakes. But one answer stood above them all. For once, She chose herself. Sadly, happiness rarely stays unnoticed. Especially not when eyes are always watching.
From the bushes near the pathway, a camera shutter clicked. Once. Twice. Then several more times. The lens captured the exact moment you leaned down to Leeseo’s height, close enough to make the world assume intimacy. Close enough to create a story. The man behind the camera smirked. He rushed to his car, opened his laptop, and began typing the kind of article that could change lives before breakfast.
Meanwhile, completely unaware, Leeseo had launched herself onto her bed face-first, screaming into her pillow as loudly as she could. There was no way. No way she had just confessed. Her. The great Hyunseo Lee. The girl who overthought every feeling. The girl who analyzed every possibility. The girl who prided herself on composure. Confessing to a guy. In public. Never in a million years had she imagined herself doing something so reckless. She had expected you to confess first. That had been the script in her head. But everything about you made her thoughts scatter like sparks in the wind. You made her happy. Excited. Warm. Ridiculous. And now she had confessed and wanted the bed to swallow her whole. She groaned into the pillow again. Then her bedroom door opened. Liz peeked in.
“Everything okay?” Liz asked gently.
Leeseo lifted her face, cheeks still burning. “…I confessed.”
Liz gasped. Then immediately betrayed her.
“SHE CONFESSED! EVERYONE QUICK! LEESEO CONFESSED TO A GUY!”
“UNNIE!” Leeseo cried.
Within seconds, chaos arrived. Wonyoung entered in a bathrobe, hair full of shampoo. Rei walked in carrying breakfast and still eating. Yujin appeared looking like sleep itself had personally offended her. Gaeul calmly shut the door behind everyone like this was now an official meeting. Leeseo buried her face again.
“I… ran away.”
The room froze. “You what?” Yujin asked slowly.
“I didn’t hear his response.”
All five members groaned in unison. Because why would anyone run away from a confession they initiated? Yujin inhaled, clearly preparing a leadership lecture. But before she could begin, Rei gasped loudly. Everyone turned. She held up her phone. Trending on social media was an article from Dispatch. BREAKING: IVE Leeseo Seen With Mystery Man Presumed to Be Her Boyfriend on Campus
The attached image was from earlier. The angle made it look like you were kissing her. Wonyoung clutched her chest dramatically.
“Scandalous,” she said with teasing elegance.
“That’s nonsense!” Leeseo cried. “I didn’t kiss him—” She froze.
“…Yet.”
The room erupted. But beneath the teasing, everyone understood the danger. This was exactly what Yujin had feared. Exactly the kind of storm idols were forced to endure. Yujin softened.
“Leeseo… your fans…”
“It’s okay, unnie.”
Leeseo stood straighter. Calmer than anyone expected. “I chose this.”
Her voice was steady. “And I’ll stand by it.”
The room went quiet. Because this was not the old Leeseo. The old Leeseo would have cried. Panicked. Asked others to fix things for her. But now, She looked grown. Determined. Confident. Yujin smiled faintly.
“Leeseo, that’s great and all, but how do we—”
“WAIT!” Rei shouted again.
Another update had appeared. The previous article had been deleted. Replaced by a new headline:
BREAKING: DISPATCH WRITER EXPOSED FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE AFTER EVIDENCE SURFACES ONLINE
Everyone stared. Apparently, the journalist who wrote Leeseo’s scandal article had just been exposed through screenshots, messages, and photos posted online by an anonymous account named:
LatteSprinkleLover69
The scandal exploded instantly. Within minutes, the entire internet forgot Leeseo’s article ever existed. Her members celebrated in disbelief. But Leeseo only smiled quietly. Because there was only one person ridiculous enough to choose that username.
Golden hour painted the campus in warm amber light. Sunlight kissed the library windows and spilled across the second-floor floorboards. You sat at the familiar table, an empty sprinkle milk latte beside you, watching students pass outside. Peaceful. Calm. Then came footsteps you knew by heart already.
“You have a very unique username on Twitter.”
Leeseo’s voice. You turned. She surprised you by sitting beside you this time, not across. Close enough that your shoulders nearly touched. She smiled warmly, though her gaze kept drifting to your lips.
“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” you said innocently.
She giggled. “I’m not going to ask how you found everything about that guy,” she said softly. “I just want to say…”
“Hm?”
You turned toward her. And her lips met yours. Soft. Quick. Warm like strawberry and sweetness. A tiny kiss that still managed to shake your whole chest. She pulled back immediately, cheeks red, giggling nervously.
“Thanks,” she whispered. “And… I hope you like me too.”
You smiled and flicked her forehead lightly. “Of course, you dummy.”
She pouted and slapped your shoulder. “Hey! That’s my line, dummy.”
“Nuh-uh,” you said proudly. “Since we’re a couple now, it’s our word.”
She narrowed her eyes. “What is this? Communism?”
You straightened dramatically. “Yes, comrade.”
Leeseo burst into laughter. So did you. And together, in the same library where it all began, your laughter filled the silence.Later that night, in her pink diary, Leeseo wrote one final entry:
Love is old-fashioned for me and you.Sincerely,Hyunseo and Y/N.
Snow in Dallas was never supposed to feel this heavy.
The city had seen winter before. Thin layers of white dusting rooftops, iced roads that sent Texans into mild panic, the kind of cold that disappeared as quickly as it arrived. But this storm was different. One of those rare winter systems that swallowed the skyline whole, turned familiar streets into slick sheets of ice, and muted the city beneath a frozen hush. Everywhere you looked, Dallas was wrapped in white, as if the city itself had decided to pause.
For Dallas sports fans, the timing felt cruel.
It had been almost a year since that night. The night people still spoke about carefully, as if saying it too loudly might reopen something that never truly healed. The franchise hero, the golden boy who was once destined for a statue outside the arena, was gone. Luka Dončić.
The explanation given was simple and rehearsed. Defense wins championships. It sounded clean enough on paper, but no slogan could soften the reality of what was lost. Fans filled in the gaps with their own theories. Front office ego. Panic decisions. Financial motives. Anything that made more sense than willingly letting go of the player who had carried the city for seven years.
Copper Flagg was special. No one denied that. Nineteen years old, raw but undeniably talented, with flashes of brilliance that hinted at an All Star future. He had time. He had upside.
But upside did not replace memories.
Potential could not substitute loyalty. Seven years of Luka bleeding blue and white, smiling through losses, delivering impossible shots, and promising better days ahead. You could not trade away that kind of bond and expect the city to move on quietly.
As snow continued to fall and Dallas slowed to a crawl, the grief lingered just as thick. Cold, unresolved, and still aching.
And somewhere in the city, one particular fan was taking it far more personally than most.
Minjeong Kim, better known to most people as Winter Kim, was known by her coworkers for two things. Her obsessive basketball knowledge and her alarming emotional attachment to the Dallas Mavericks. Ironically enough, this made her the perfect sports writer for the team.
She grew up in South Korea, oceans away from Texas, but her loyalty to the Mavericks began the moment Dirk Nowitzki dragged Dallas to the hardest championship ring imaginable, toppling prime LeBron James and the Miami Heat. That run changed everything for her. It was the moment basketball stopped being a sport she watched and became something she felt.
When college rolled around, Winter packed her life into suitcases and moved to Dallas to study journalism, specializing almost immediately in sports. Writing about the Mavericks did not feel like work to her. It felt like destiny. She jumped in joy when they won and had to physically restrain herself from throwing her television across the room when they lost. Her neighbors were familiar with both her celebrations and her despair.
One of her most treasured memories was witnessing Dirk’s final game in person at the American Airlines Center. She cried. She swore she wouldn’t. She cried anyway. Watching the man who made her fall in love with basketball say goodbye felt like the closing of a sacred chapter.
Which made what happened next feel unforgivable.
Luka Dončić being traded was shocking enough. Luka being traded to the Lakers was a crime against humanity.
Winter did not scream. She did not cry. She simply stared at her screen in silence for three full seconds before picking up her television and throwing it straight out of her apartment window in pure disbelief and rage.
Somewhere down the road, a homeless man looked up at the sudden gift from the heavens and thanked God for providing him with a perfectly sellable television.
Winter, meanwhile, was already drafting the angriest article of her career.
And sure enough, the pieces she submitted became the company’s most explosive hit work to date. What started as personal grief quickly turned into a full-blown indictment of the trade itself. Winter did not hold back. She was unfiltered, unapologetic, and brutally honest, channeling the raw emotions of die hard Mavericks fans who felt betrayed, not just the heartbreak of a Luka fan losing her favorite player.
Her writing was sharp and devastatingly beautiful. Every paragraph dissected the front office’s incompetence, the owner’s delusion, and the ego-driven decisions masked behind empty championship buzzwords. She did not insult for the sake of outrage. She laid out facts, history, and emotional truth with surgical precision. It was less an article and more a public reckoning.
The response was immediate. Traffic surged. Comments flooded in. Fans shared her work like a rallying cry. Some called it reckless. Others called it the most honest thing written about the Mavericks in years.
Inside the office, however, Winter became untouchable.
For two straight weeks, her coworkers avoided her like she carried a contagious disease. No casual greetings. No small talk. No jokes. Everyone knew Winter already had a short fuse on a good day, and after what the Mavericks had done to Luka Dončić, that fuse had been reduced to a spark.
She showed up, wrote like a woman possessed, and left without a word.
And God help anyone who tried to bring up the Lakers.
Anyone, that is, except her best friend and coworker, Karina.
Karina was the only person in the office granted full immunity from Winter’s wrath. Not because she understood basketball, but precisely because she didn’t. Karina wasn’t into sports at all, yet she took an alarming amount of joy in pressing every single one of Winter’s buttons. It was practically a hobby.
Once, completely unprovoked, Karina casually remarked that the Lakers were probably going to win a championship with Luka.
Winter responded by tying her to a chair with rope and taping her mouth shut so she would “stop spreading lies.” Karina spent the rest of the workday glaring while Winter typed furiously at her desk, occasionally shushing her like a librarian enforcing silence.
Despite the teasing, the threats, and the constant verbal warfare, their friendship was unshakable. They had been close since college, surviving deadlines, heartbreaks, all nighters, and life’s worst decisions together. Karina firmly believed they were soulmates for life.
Winter, on the other hand, strongly believed Karina deserved to be hit with a shovel and buried somewhere remote.
But it was love. Deep, ride or die, no questions asked kind of love.
Winter knew every single one of Karina’s secrets, and Karina knew just as many of hers. They had seen each other at their lowest and most unhinged, which meant there was nothing left to hide. They understood each other completely, inside and out.
Which was exactly why Karina felt comfortable saying the one thing she absolutely should not have said next.
“Luka is back next week. I bought two tickets. Wanna watch it with me, Minjeong-ah?”
Winter froze.
Her calendar was already screaming at her. Deadlines stacked on deadlines, edits waiting, articles half-finished and begging to be turned in. Any normal week, she would have said no without hesitation.
This was not a normal week.
It was Luka’s second homecoming. His first game back in Dallas after signing that extension with the Lakers. The thought alone made her chest tighten in a way she refused to acknowledge out loud. She hated that the uniform would be wrong. She hated that the cheers would feel complicated. She hated that the goodbye they never got was now being rewritten on someone else’s terms.
But there was no universe where she missed this.
Winter already knew she would be there, sitting in that arena, watching the man who once belonged to Dallas step onto the court wearing colors she despised. She would clap. She would cry internally. She would pretend she wasn’t emotionally compromised.
What truly fueled her anger, though, was the other thing she knew would happen.
Lakers fans would show up.
They would stroll into the arena like conquerors, draped in purple and gold, proudly parading Luka as if he had always been theirs. As if Dallas had not loved him first. As if seven years of loyalty, sacrifice, and history could be erased with a signature and a jersey swap.
Winter clenched her jaw.
She had deadlines to meet next week.
But she also had a score to settle.
And no amount of professionalism was going to stop her from mentally fighting every Lakers fan she saw.
“Yeah. I’m in.”
Those three words were enough to seal her fate.
From that moment on, Winter locked in. Every deadline she had lined up for the rest of the week and the next was mentally compressed into a brutal three day schedule. She arrived at work, sat down, finished her assignments, and left. No detours. No distractions. No unnecessary human interaction.
Anyone who tried to flirt with her, especially the men, was immediately met with a death stare so cold it made them stutter apologies and retreat on their own. Even coworkers who attempted harmless small talk were shut down with an icy glance that made it very clear she was not in the mood for pleasantries.
Karina, of course, was the only exception.
She showed up at Winter’s desk like clockwork, slid a cup of coffee toward her, and dragged her away for a ten minute break. Karina talked. Winter drank her coffee in silence. It was the only time she allowed herself to breathe.
Karina, notably, had done absolutely nothing to reduce her own workload.
In Winter’s eyes, she was a lazy, stupid cheese cat masquerading as a functioning adult.
And yet, Winter endured her.
True to her word, she finished everything in three days.
Every article. Every edit. Every obligation cleared with ruthless efficiency. Once the last piece was submitted, she requested two rest days the following week to attend the game, plus one additional day for what she vaguely labeled as emotional recovery.
The request was approved without hesitation. No one questioned it. Her work spoke for itself.
Now all that remained was the waiting.
And the inevitable moment she would see Luka Dončić step onto the Dallas court again.
This time, wearing the wrong colors.
And now, back to the present.
A heavy snowstorm swallowed the streets as Winter drove through Dallas, knuckles tight on the steering wheel. Ice clung to the roads, streetlights blurred behind sheets of falling snow, and the city felt wrapped in cold silence. In the passenger seat, Karina lived her best life as a full-time passenger princess, bundled up in so many layers she barely resembled a human anymore.
By the time Winter found a parking spot near the arena, Karina looked like a sentient pile of coats.
Winter killed the engine, stepped out, and immediately reached back into the car to drag Karina out of her seat.
“Move,” she grunted.
Karina waddled out, struggling under what appeared to be at least five separate clothing items. She looked twice her size, arms stiff at her sides.
Winter groaned. “You need to take some of that off.”
Karina froze, eyes wide with panic. “What? I can’t be naked!”
Winter stared at her.
Then she facepalmed so hard it echoed.
“Are you dumb? I never said go naked.”
“You said strip,” Karina accused. “Pervert, Winter.”
“Oh my fucking God, you’re dumb.”
Karina gasped dramatically. “Am I?”
“Yes.”
“How can you prove it?”
Karina struck her usual smug thinking pose, finger on her chin, lips pursed in fake contemplation.
Winter didn’t answer. She simply wrapped an arm around Karina’s neck and lightly choked her out.
Karina let out a high pitched squeal before immediately bursting into laughter, clinging to Winter as they both stumbled in the snow. Winter released her, glaring down at her best friend’s annoyingly amused face.
Karina just grinned wider.
Winter sighed.
She was surrounded by snow, Lakers fans were imminent, and somehow this idiot was still her emotional support human.
And the night hadn’t even started yet.
When they finally entered the arena, it was a sea of Luka jerseys, fifty-fifty split between Dallas blue and white and Lakers purple and gold. The energy was electric, but all Winter felt was a bittersweet ache. Luka was here, sure, but not for them anymore. He wore the wrong colors, cheered by the wrong fans, and every familiar echo in the arena only reminded her of what had been taken.
She was about to take a deep breath, brace herself, and stop the tears before they came. And then she heard it. Words that sounded like blasphemy in the sacred halls of the Mavericks.
“Man, Luka sure loves LA, man. Beaches, sunshine… Texas is cold as shit anyway. Not only that, he’s playing for the Lakers. Our Lakers! How cool is that?”
Each word struck her like a personal attack. She muttered a silent mantra under her breath: Do not start a fight. Do not start a fight. Do not start a fight.
But every time you paired “Lakers” and “Luka” in the same sentence, the mantra cracked a little more. Her fists clenched. Her jaw tightened.
And then came the final straw.
“…and man, Luka’s next in line after LeBron. He’s gonna be the GOAT soon!”
Winter snapped. She spun toward you, scowling so hard Karina’s mouth fell shut instantly.
“LeBron is not the GOAT when he couldn’t even beat my Mavericks in his prime,” she barked, voice dripping with righteous fury.
The arena seemed to quiet just for a second, Karina sheepishly shrinking in place beside her, and you got caught off guard, raised a single eyebrow in amused confusion.
Winter’s glare could have frozen over the entire arena. But from your perspective, all you saw was a small Korean gremlin convinced she could take on the world. You guessed correctly that some basketball opinions were sacred enough to break lesser mortals but you hoped she wasn’t that extreme.
“Look, miss,” you said, trying to stay calm. “Believe it or not, the GOAT is LeBron. And I don’t know why you’re so pressed about my opinion, like I’m not allowed to say what I think.”
Winter took a deep breath, ready to unleash a verbal hurricane.
“You’re all the same. Ungrateful, spoiled brats of the league. The Lakers always think they’re the face of basketball when—”
“How many banners do the Mavs have?”
The question hit like a missile. Winter froze for a second, caught off guard. Karina immediately went into mental panic mode, trying to figure out if she should intervene.
“Many more than you could sniff in your lifetime,” Winter snapped, her voice sharp as ice.
“Funny,” you countered, smirking. “Because I’ve witnessed the two-peat of Kobe and Gasol, along with your Dirk-led runs. Not to mention the 2020 championship. So that makes it three to one. Even if you want to discount the bubble chip, my team still has more banners than yours.”
“You piece of—”
Before Winter could finish, Karina slapped a hand over her mouth, apologizing profusely, and yanked her away from you and your equally smug Lakers buddy.
You shook your head, letting them go, and walked away, silently impressed and mildly terrified at the same time.
“Dude, you’re crazy defending the Lakers like that,” your friend said, shaking his head.
You just shrugged. It wasn’t worth explaining. Everyone hated the Lakers, because they were the Lakers. Think about it: the NBA had plenty of great players, but the Lakers? They were iconic. History dripping from every corner of the franchise. Hall of Famers stacked like skyscrapers. Eighteen banners and counting. Everyone knew the brand, everyone had an opinion, and most of them were negative.
Meanwhile, Winter was fuming. She and Karina finally made it to their designated seats, Winter muttering Korean slurs under her breath while Karina desperately tried to calm her down. She really, and I mean really, hated the Lakers and their fanbase. So much so that she was willing to end someone’s life for free if she ever discovered they were a die-hard fan.
“That guy is an asshole,” Winter hissed. “I hope he doesn’t get a girlfriend. A freaking loser virgin.”
“Ugh, not to be a party pooper,” Karina said casually, “but you’re also a virgin, Minjeong. No boyfriend since birth.”
“Unnie!” Winter barked, her eyes practically shooting lasers.
Karina just shrugged, smug as ever. Winter groaned, burying her face in her hands. It wasn’t like she needed a boyfriend anyway. Ball was life. As long as the Mavericks won a championship in her lifetime, everything else would work itself out. She’d rather be a cat lady than deal with a manchild who needed high maintenance in a relationship. She wasn’t picky, but she had standards. Standards she upheld ruthlessly for herself.
Karina nudged her lightly. “Focus, Minjeong. Game time. Save the rage for the court.”
Winter peeked over her hands, glaring at the sea of purple and gold in the arena. When Luka Dončić was announced, the crowd erupted. Of course they did, this was his second homecoming before moving to the big city of Los Angeles.
Winter felt bittersweet seeing Luka again, wearing a different jersey. It hurt, sure, but at least he wasn’t crying this time. Instead, he smiled, calm and confident, like he had already accepted this new chapter of his life.
When the buzzer sounded and the first possession started, Winter cheered as Luka sank his opening basket. But her cheer was abruptly cut off by a voice beside her, annoyingly loud and carefree.
“Yeah! Luka! Show Copper you’re way better than him!”
Winter froze.
What the fuck? Are you a stalker too?
She turned toward the source of the voice. And there you were.
“What the hell? Why are you here?” she demanded.
“Duh! I bought tickets. Are you dumb?” you replied, casually, as if this explained everything.
“Says the one-ring merchant,” Winter shot back, her tone dripping with disbelief.
Middle fingers were exchanged with perfect timing, the mutual disdain practically vibrating in the air.
It was obvious: they hated each other at first sight. Some people fall in love at first sight. Winter and you? Hate at first sight. Or maybe, just maybe, it would evolve… fade at first sight? Who could say.
Throughout the entire game, you and Winter argued like you had known each other for years. In reality, you had just met. You were simply complete opposites.
You went back and forth over missed calls, soft fouls, and no-calls, trash‑talking each other every time your team scored. To everyone around you, it looked almost… domestic. A few people nearby even smiled, amused by the sight of the two of you bickering nonstop like an old couple.
What surprised you was that Winter actually knew ball.
She wasn’t the type to scream “foul” at every body bump. She knew the rules. She understood positioning, timing, and defensive schemes. Half the time, your arguments turned into actual debates instead of pointless shouting, which caught you off guard.
And it surprised Winter too.
She had fully expected you to be a spoiled Lakers fan who knew nothing beyond highlights and banners. But instead, you pointed out Dallas’s late rotations, questionable coaching decisions, and the Mavericks’ weak points just as easily as their strengths. You weren’t brain-dead. You had logic. Facts.
It was annoying.
By the end of the game, the Mavericks collapsed late in the fourth quarter, and the Lakers pulled away with the win. You and your friend high‑fived, celebrating the victory. When you turned toward Winter, ready to boast, you froze.
She was pouting.
A cute pout. One that somehow fit her height perfectly.
You couldn’t help it. A small smile tugged at your lips.
Winter took a deep breath, her pout fading into a reluctant, mildly amused expression. “Fine,” she muttered. “Your team was better tonight. Tsk.”
She was still bitter, obviously. But you caught that crack in her defenses and decided to push your luck.
“Aww,” you cooed. “Look at you warming up to me.”
Winter immediately glared and flicked you off.
“I hope you die in the snow.”
She grabbed her coat and stormed off so fast she didn’t even realize she left Karina behind, forcing her to scramble out of her seat and chase after her. But you stopped Winter in her footsteps when you said “I’m Y/N. What's your name?”
Winter just flicked you off and went on her way.
As Winter marched through the arena, she frowned to herself. Because for some reason, she couldn’t stop thinking about it.
She had actually enjoyed arguing with you.
The realization unsettled her.
It was weird. Really weird.
And yet, as she stepped into the cold night air, a small smile betrayed her thoughts.
And those thoughts didn’t fade after one day. No, she was wrong to think it would. During her two-day leave from work, she found herself replaying the encounter over and over. How you had countered her arguments with logic, how you had respected some of her calls, even if begrudgingly and how, in some twisted way, you had validated her opinions.
It shouldn’t have mattered. And yet it did.
You were just a guy who happened to know basketball as well as she did, biased toward your own team, yes, but still able to see the game clearly. You loved some players, hated others, argued passionately, and didn’t hide behind hot takes or Twitter rants. In a strange way, you reminded her of herself. The fierce defender of the Mavericks and Luka, the one who couldn’t stand foolish claims or ignorant arguments.
Her leave days disappeared faster than she wanted. Before she knew it, she was back at the office, typing away on Mavericks-related articles, her usual rhythm restored. But today felt… different.
Her boss called her into his office, a first. Usually, he just came to her workspace and handed her a task. Curious, she stepped inside.
And froze.
Because sitting there, in all his smug glory, was you.
“Winter, meet Y/N,” her boss said cheerfully. “He’ll be working under you on an article about the Luka trade anniversary.”
Winter blinked. Blinked again. Blinked a third time, just to make sure she wasn’t hallucinating.
“You? Sir… why him?” she asked frantically, unable to mask her disbelief.
Her boss just shrugged.
“He’s an ESPN reporter for the Lakers. And, seeing as you two already know each other… great. Dismissed. You two can leave my office now.”
Winter’s brain short-circuited. Her mind raced. Her hands itched for a keyboard, a pen, or… something. Anything to cope with this absurdity.
You, of course, leaned back in the chair, that infuriating smug grin firmly in place.
The moment you two stepped out of the office, Winter’s glare could have melted steel.
“What the hell are you doing here?” she snapped.
“Didn’t your boss hear you?” you replied smoothly. “I’m here to write a story for ESPN about the one-year anniversary of the Luka trade. You know how this goes.”
As Winter processed your words, realization hit her like a rogue basketball to the face. You were a journalist just like her. And suddenly, everything she’d thought about you during the game, the logical counterpoints, the respect for her calls, was creeping uncomfortably close to her own reflection.
No. Surely Cupid wasn’t involved, right? Right?
“Anyway, whatever. First rule: you stay forty-eight inches away from me at my workstation. Second: you call me Minjeong. Third: don’t act like we know each other. I still hate you.”
Winter set the tone early, making sure her steel-cold message was clear: she hated you. Nothing else.
“Forty-eight inches?” you asked with mock curiosity. “Did you bring a tape measure, Minjeong, or should I just use my ‘villainous intuition’ to eyeball it? Also, ‘not acting like we know each other’ is going to be hard… seeing as you keep making it painfully obvious you’re thinking about me.”
Your grin, that annoying, overconfident Lakers-fan grin, appeared at the end of your sentence.
Winter froze. Not because of your words. Not because of the smugness. But because… her cheeks felt hot.
Why? Why is this idiot making her steel wall evaporate just by being so… confident?
“Well? You leading me to our workspace or not, Minjeong?” you asked, popping her bubble of thought.
She gulped, cheeks still tingling, before slapping on a mask of annoyance, trying her hardest to hide the blush.
“Tsk! Follow me, jerk,” she muttered, stomping ahead with purpose, clearly pretending this whole interaction didn’t just fluster her more than she wanted to admit.
Her work area was clean and spacious, no wonder her boss assigned her to you.
The moment she sat down, Winter’s hands were already on her keyboard, fingers flying across the keys as she locked into her work. You opened your laptop, bored out of your mind, already having reviewed the ghost of the entire Luka trade in your head. Yet, somehow, your eyes kept drifting to her.
The way she focused, the intensity in her posture, the slight furrow of her brow… it was making you fall.
By the time lunch approached, you noticed something. Winter didn’t even twitch in excitement at the thought of leaving her desk. She was locked in. Or so she thought.
Because while she tried to ignore everyone, her eyes kept flicking to you, inexplicably. Normally, she ignored coworkers, even ones standing a foot away, but you? You were impossible to ignore.
And then came the flirtation, the annoying, infuriating, utterly distracting flirtation.
Blake, her coworker who never took a hint, approached her workspace.
“Hey, Min—”
“Busy. Disturb me next time,” Winter cut him off sharply.
Blake sighed like he hadn’t expected that answer. “Come on, Minjeong. This is the seventh time you’ve said ‘next time.’”
“Then make it the eighth,” she replied, smirking coldly.
Blake opened his mouth again, but you were faster. You stood up, looping an arm around him like he was your best friend.
“Hey man,” you said, grinning. “Since you look like a veteran here, can you show this ESPN journalist where the coffee machine is? I’d love to have you as my company.”
The moment you said ESPN, Blake gulped, immediately aware how much a single article could make him disappear. He nodded obediently and guided you away from Winter.
As your footsteps faded, Winter turned her gaze to your back. A small smile tugged at her lips.
The way you’d called Blake an “old worker” because of his retro attire, it was an inside joke in the company, but the way you’d done it with wit and confidence, dragging the nuisance away from her, made her feel… amused.
“Idiot…” she muttered softly under her breath, barely realizing she’d smiled. When you returned after an hour break of lunch, Winter wasted no time arguing with you.
“You didn’t have to do that, you know. Didn’t I explicitly say we don’t know each other?”
Her tone was cold, serious, but there was a sharp edge to it.
You just shrugged. “I don’t think I broke that rule. In fact, I did it to get my coffee around here.”
“Liar,” Winter accused, narrowing her eyes.
You smirked, sensing an opening, a side of her she hadn’t shown yet.
“Liar? Maybe. But at least I’m honest about wanting coffee. You’re the one struggling to keep your eyes on your work… and off the ‘stranger’ in the corner.”
Winter’s eyes widened. Caught? Was she too obvious, glancing at you while you weren’t looking? Panic crept across her face, turning her expression into genuine horror. You chuckled softly.
“Aww man, you’re way too easy to tease, Winter.”
Her thought process immediately shifted into attack mode. “You jerk—”
But her hand moved too slowly. Even your grandma could have caught it. You did, and gently pulled her toward you, her rolling chair dragging her closer as she tried to fight it.
“You’re close. Remember the first rule?”
Winter’s cheeks blazed red, her face heating up like she’d just walked into a furnace. She should have shoved you, spat on your smug face, but instead, she froze, caught in the gaze of your brown hazel eyes that somehow framed her perfectly.
“I… hate you,” she muttered.
But this time, there was no heat in her words. No fight. No fire. It was almost… resigned.
You let go of her hand, ready to claim victory, when suddenly Winter yanked her chair back at the last second. You toppled to the floor with a soft thud as she giggled, looking down at you triumphantly.
“Oops… my fault,” she said, that victorious smirk lighting up her face.
You sat up, brushing off the fall, and couldn’t help but grin back.
For the past two weeks, you and Winter worked side by side to finish the ESPN article, and somehow, it became a battlefield of banter. Mostly instigated by you.
You took every chance to tease her, just to watch her reactions. She would get flustered, cheeks heating up, clearly annoyed, trying her hardest to get back at you. And every time she failed, she’d pout without realizing how adorable she looked doing it. Your conscience never survived those moments. You always ended up buying her chocolate drinks as compensation.
What you didn’t realize was how everyone else saw the two of you.
From your perspective, it was just two journalists clashing egos, trying to outwit each other. But to the people around you? It looked nothing like that. The cold, intimidating Minjeong Kim was laughing. Smiling. Relaxed. With a man who had shown up just two weeks ago and somehow made everyone else look foolish for ever thinking they had a chance with her.
It was shocking. Especially to Karina.
One afternoon, on a shared day off, Winter found herself sitting at a café with Karina. It was supposed to be casual, just friends hanging out, but Winter ended up talking. A lot. Every story she told about you sounded like complaints, insults, little victories. Yet her smile never faded as she recalled them.
Karina noticed.
“You look brighter when you talk about him, Winter,” she said gently. “I’m happy for you.”
Winter scoffed, rolling her eyes.
“What are you talking about? I’m not brighter than a lamp.”
Karina smiled softly. “I don’t think so. Before, you always looked bored. Unapproachable. Like you were just dragging yourself through the day. You seemed miserable back then. But now? You laugh more. You actually look like you’re having fun. I’m glad.”
Winter sighed and looked away, pretending not to care. But deep down, she knew Karina was right. Ever since you entered her life, work didn’t feel as heavy. She caught herself looking forward to your first comment of the day, your stupid remarks about her hair or what she was wearing.
“I just hope that smile doesn’t disappear when he leaves in three days.”
Karina said it so casually, like she hadn’t just dropped something explosive.
Winter froze in her seat.
“What?”
“Oh. You didn’t know?” Karina blinked. “He said he’s leaving in three days.”
Winter felt her chest tighten.
How did she not know? You worked together. Sat beside each other. Spent nearly every day together. And yet, you were leaving, and she had no idea.
Was she really that insignificant to you? Just someone temporary. Someone who mistook banter for something more.
Maybe this was how it was supposed to be. She should be relieved. Happy, even. The most annoying thorn in her life would finally be gone.
But she wasn’t.
It hurt.
It hurt like hell.
The change was immediate. The moment you stepped into the office the next morning, something felt… off.
Winter didn’t greet you with a sharp remark. No sarcastic jab. No comment about your jacket or the way you walked like you owned the place. She didn’t even glance at you.
She was already seated, eyes locked onto her screen, fingers moving fast across the keyboard. Focused. Too focused.
“Morning, Winter,” you said casually, dropping your bag onto your chair. “You look like you’re about to fight your laptop.”
No response.
You frowned slightly and leaned closer, just enough to invade her precious forty-eight-inch rule. “Wow. Silent treatment? That’s new.”
Still nothing.
Her jaw tightened, but she didn’t look at you. She simply shifted her chair an inch farther away, creating distance without saying a word.
That was when it hit you.
This wasn’t her usual annoyed act. This wasn’t banter.
Something was wrong.
You tried again later, during a break in typing. “Did I do something, or is this part of a new workplace strategy where you pretend I don’t exist?”
Winter finally spoke.
“Please don’t talk to me while I’m working.”
Her voice was calm. Flat. Professional.
It stung more than if she’d snapped at you.
You straightened, taken aback. “Since when?”
“Since always,” she replied, eyes still on her screen. “I just didn’t enforce it properly before.”
Before.
That word sat heavy in your chest.
Lunch came and went. Normally, you’d find an excuse to drag her out, complain about the food downstairs, or bribe her with chocolate drinks. Today, she didn’t move from her seat. When you stood, she didn’t look up. When you came back, she was already typing again.
It felt like you were sitting beside a stranger.
Over the next two days, it only got worse.
No teasing. No rolling eyes. No blushing when you leaned too close. If you spoke, she answered in short, clipped sentences. Strictly work-related. Nothing more.
You caught her staring at you once. Just once.
But the moment your eyes met, she looked away like she’d been burned.
That night, you found yourself rereading your half-finished section of the article and realizing you hadn’t written a single new word in twenty minutes.
You weren’t distracted by the work.
You were distracted by her.
By the space she put between you. By the way she laughed with everyone else except you. By the fact that three days felt suddenly, terrifyingly short.
And across the room, Winter stared at her screen, pretending the words weren’t blurring together.
Pretending she didn’t feel the same ache every time you spoke to someone else.
Pretending it didn’t hurt knowing you were leaving.
And pretending she didn’t want to ask you why you never told her.
As the third day arrived, Winter felt more miserable than ever. Was this really how it ended? Was everything that happened over the past two weeks meant to amount to nothing? Two weeks sounded so small, so insignificant, hardly enough time to fall in love with someone.
…Fall in love?
The thought stopped her cold.
Love?
Was she in love?
The realization hit her harder than any argument ever could. That was why it hurt so much. That was why the idea of you leaving felt unbearable. She tried to convince herself she hadn’t had enough time, that two weeks weren’t enough for something like love—but she was wrong. She didn’t need more time. She had already fallen.
In those two weeks, you gave her something she hadn’t truly felt since Luka left. Happiness. Real, unexpected happiness. She thought basketball would be enough to fill that space, that love would always come from the game. She never expected it to come from the one person she swore she hated. A quiet, bitter chuckle left her lips as she realized the truth.
She was the idiot. Not you.
Winter glanced at the clock, her breath catching. If she hurried, if she was early enough, maybe she could still see you. You still had things at her work area, didn’t you? Without thinking twice, she grabbed her coat and ran.
She didn’t care about the cold, or the snow biting at her skin, or the way her lungs burned as she sprinted through the streets. All she cared about was seeing you. Just once.
By the time she reached the office, she was gasping for breath, dizziness creeping in, but she forced herself forward anyway. She rushed to her work area first.
Your desk was clean.
Too clean.
No laptop. No notes. No trace that you were ever there.
“No… no, please…” her voice broke as she rushed to her own desk, papers scattering everywhere as she searched desperately for anything, anything that proved you hadn’t left yet.
There was nothing.
She was too late.
The realization shattered her. The pain was sharper than when Luka left, because this time, she had a choice. And she chose wrong. Warm tears blurred her vision as she walked out of the office, her coworkers frozen in place, unsure whether to comfort her or keep their distance.
Winter didn’t notice them.
She walked away like a ghost, heart broken beyond repair.
That was until—
“Damn, that’s the last time I’m taking a public bus to Houston. Four hours of sitting is actual torture… huh?”
Your voice cut through the cold like a crack of thunder.
“Oh? Winter? You’re early today. Didn’t you have an off day?”
You stepped down from the bus, stretching your legs, completely unaware that Winter stood frozen in front of you, eyes wide, face pale, heart pounding so loudly she was sure you could hear it.
Her lips parted, no sound coming out at first. Slowly, as if afraid you might disappear, she walked toward you and grabbed your arms, fingers curling into your jacket like an anchor.
“You… you didn’t leave?” her voice trembled.
“I did,” you replied casually. “Last night. Went to Houston to return my friend’s stuff.”
Her grip tightened.
“B–but… your things. Your desk was empty.”
“Oh, that?” you laughed softly. “Those weren’t mine. I just borrowed his laptop and notes. He needed them back, so I went to return everything. Worst decision of my life though. Bus rides are hell.”
Winter blinked.
Once.
Twice.
Then her eyes filled with tears.
You were still here.
You hadn’t left her.
She wasn’t too late.
A shaky laugh escaped her as she wiped her tears away and then, without warning, she started punching your shoulder.
“What the—hey!” you laughed, raising your arms defensively.
“I hate you! I hate you! I hate you!” she cried, hitting you again and again, not even putting real force behind it.
You caught both her wrists easily, holding them in place, confusion written all over your face.
“For two days you acted like I didn’t exist, and now you’re crying and assaulting me. Can you at least explain what’s going on—”
You didn’t get to finish.
Winter grabbed your jacket, pulled you down to her height, and kissed you.
Hard.
All the fear, relief, frustration, and longing she’d bottled up poured into that single moment. Your eyes widened in shock, but only for a second before you kissed her back, instinctively, naturally like this was always where things were headed.
When she finally pulled away, she looked up at you with flushed cheeks and a confident smirk that mirrored your own.
“Is that enough of an explanation, baby?”
Yeah.
That explained everything.
“I… I guess.”
Winter giggled and clung to you, burying her face into your chest. This wasn’t just Winter anymore, this was your Winter Kim, sniffing your scent like an obsessed menace, and somehow you loved every second of it.
“I love you, Y/N,” she murmured. “Don’t ever leave me, okay?”
You chuckled softly, pressing a kiss to the top of her forehead.
“I won’t, Winter. I’m not going anywhere.”
Her smile bloomed instantly, bright and warm, so different from the girl who once nearly committed a felony over someone not calling LeBron the GOAT.
Then she looked up at you with the most innocent expression imaginable.
“Let’s go kill Karina, baby!”
…Excuse you?
You froze mid-step. Your brain needed a full system reboot. Did your girlfriend, your newly confessed, very adorable girlfriend just casually suggest murder with a smile that could pass for a toothpaste commercial?
“Oh,” you thought. She’s crazy.
Like… crazy crazy.
But you loved her. Just, not the homicide part.
“Wait, Winter, what do you mean by—”
“Let’s go!” she giggled, already hopping away like she hadn’t just announced a felony.
You hurried after her, grabbing her hand before she could get too far, immediately launching into a very serious explanation about how executing Karina was, in fact, not worth it. The two of you argued under the falling snow, her insisting Karina deserved it, you insisting prison was not part of the romance package.
But none of that really mattered.
Because you were laughing.
She was smiling.
And you were in love.
Nothing was separating you now.
Meanwhile, in an apartment somewhere in Dallas—
“ACHOO!”
Karina sneezed loudly, rubbing her nose in confusion.
“Huh. Weird.”
She sniffed, then shrugged.
“Oh yeah… did I forget to tell Winter that Y/N was only going to Houston for a bit before coming back?”
She paused for half a second.
“…Eh. She’ll be fine.”
Karina shrugged again, blissfully unaware of the near war crime she had just narrowly escaped.
Beneath the watchful, jagged peaks of the Alps, the Free State of Bavaria unfolds like a living fairy tale, where the air often carries the faint scent of pine needles and woodsmoke. To the south, the mountains rise in dramatic, snow-capped walls, casting long shadows over crystalline lakes like the Eibsee, which sits still and emerald-green at the foot of the Zugspitze. As the land rolls northward, the rugged heights soften into a rhythmic sea of alpine meadows and dense, ancient forests. Here, the landscape is punctuated by the impossibly slender spires of village churches and the cream-colored walls of farmhouses, their wooden balconies overflowing with vibrant red geraniums even as the mist clings to the valleys.
Elizabeth exhaled slowly, her warm breath blooming into soft clouds of steam as snow whistled past her cheeks. The winter wind nipped insistently at her skin, and though her long fur-lined coat and thick knitted gloves shielded her as best they could, the cold still found its way in. German winters had been especially unforgiving this year, sharp, relentless, and unapologetic.
Her boots crunched against the frost-covered path until she finally reached the familiar sight of a medium-sized house nestled quietly among bare trees. The moment she stepped inside, warmth wrapped around her like an embrace. Heated air brushed against her flushed face, and a visible sigh of relief slipped past her lips as she shrugged off her coat and hung it neatly by the door.
For a brief moment, she simply stood there, letting her fingers thaw and her shoulders relax.
“Liz, did you pack your baggage yet?”
The voice came from upstairs. Its deep, steady, and unmistakably her father’s. His thick German accent carried easily through the house, comforting in its familiarity.
Elizabeth tilted her head upward and nodded instinctively, even though he couldn’t see her.
“I did,” she called back, her own German accent soft but present.
“I just bought some Haribo gummies nearby for the trip, Papa.”
There was a pause, followed by the faintest hint of amusement drifting down the staircase. Elizabeth smiled to herself, fingers curling slightly around the small plastic bag in her pocket, sweet, familiar flavors for a journey that would soon take her far from home.
The journey to her other hometown was bound to be emotional, perhaps even troublesome in ways Elizabeth hadn’t fully prepared herself for.
On paper, the reason for her travel was simple and practical: she would be studying English proficiency, specifically A2-level English, a stepping stone toward a future she was carefully building for herself. New classrooms, unfamiliar accents, moments of embarrassment and quiet triumph, all of that already weighed on her mind.
But beneath the academic purpose lay something far heavier.
She was going to see her mother again.
Or rather… she was going to see her mother for the first time.
The only memory Liz possessed of her Korean mother wasn’t truly a memory at all, but a grainy photograph. Edges curled with age. In it, her father stood stiffly, arm wrapped protectively around a woman with gentle eyes, both of them holding a bundled infant between them. That infant was her. That was all she had.
She knew a little Korean now, mostly thanks to late nights spent tapping through Duolingo lessons, repeating syllables under her breath and smiling when she finally got a sentence right. It wasn’t much but it felt like a fragile bridge she was trying to build across a very wide gap.
As she grew older, her father began to tell her the truth, piece by careful piece.
Back then, he said, marrying a foreigner in Korea was seen almost like a disease, something shameful, something to be erased. Her mother’s family hadn’t accepted the marriage. They had threatened to take Elizabeth away from both of them while she was still a newborn, insisting she be raised “properly,” without him.
Fear had followed them everywhere after that.
Her parents lived quietly, almost invisibly, hiding from her mother’s side of the family while her father worked long, honest days in construction, hands cracked, back aching, but never once complaining. Eventually, the danger became too real. It didn’t take long before he had to return to Germany with Liz for her safety.
It had been her mother’s wish, he said.
For Liz to live. To grow up safely. Even if it meant growing up without her.
That was the story Liz had lived with her entire life.
But now, at twenty-two, no longer a child, no longer protected by ignorance. She knew that stories always had more than one side. Like a coin, each truth depended on where you stood.
And if she was brave enough to cross oceans to learn a new language, then surely she was brave enough to hear her mother’s side too.
No matter how much it might hurt.
“Be careful in Korea, will you? You’ll be gone for about five months.”
Her father’s voice was gentle but firm as Liz snapped her suitcase shut. She let out a small chuckle, her unmistakably German laugh echoing through the pink-colored room she had grown up in the same walls that had witnessed her childhood tantrums, late-night talks, and quiet dreams.
“Papa, I’ll be fine,” Liz said, grinning. “I’ve got that German blood in me, yah?”
Her father laughed, and for a moment, the years of shared memories wrapped around them like a warm blanket. Love, patience, and countless sacrifices had woven their bond into something unbreakable.
Liz stepped forward and hugged him tightly. She held on just a second longer than usual, knowing, feeling that this would be the last hug for a long while.
The drive to the airport passed in comfortable silence, broken only by the hum of the engine and the weight of everything unspoken. Once there, her father pulled her into another embrace. His voice cracked, just barely but Liz caught it immediately.
She laughed softly and hugged him again.
“Papa, don’t cry. You didn’t even cry when you told me that story about you wrestling a bear when I was a kid.”
Her father burst into laughter and ruffled her hair. Liz squirmed, letting out a sound that only she could make.
“Ya loud mouth,” he said fondly. “Be careful out there.”
“You’ve said that twice now, ya old man,” Liz teased back, their thick German accents clinging to every word.
He only shrugged, a smile tugging at his lips as he watched her walk toward the terminal.
Liz turned around and waved, smiling brightly then quickly turned away so he wouldn’t see her face crumple. The sob caught in her throat as she walked inside, heart aching with every step. She didn’t want to leave him. Not even for this.
Worries flooded her mind uninvited.
What if he forgets his medicine again?
What if something happens and I’m not there?
The thoughts followed her all the way onto the plane.
Even as she settled into her seat, Liz sobbed softly, hugging her arms around herself. This was her home, the taste of sweet German beer, the cold winters, the laughter, the memories that shaped her. Leaving it felt like tearing away a piece of herself.
It was overwhelming.
But it was also necessary.
She needed closure with her mother, with her past. And she needed English, a language that represented the future she was chasing, even if it scared her.
So Liz wiped her tears, took a shaky breath, and stared out the window as the plane prepared for takeoff carrying her away from everything she loved, and toward everything she needed.
Meanwhile, in Korea, you were busy printing out stacks of English proficiency lessons for yet another incoming batch of students. Whether it even counted as a proper semester was debatable five months for an A2 level, after all. Short, intense, and exhausting in its own way.
Most of the students enrolled were foreigners, sprinkled with a handful of Koreans who dreamed of working abroad, America, the UK, anywhere English was the dominant language. You’d been teaching English for two years now, having graduated just a few years back, and somehow landed a job that paid surprisingly well.
But honestly?
You weren’t here for the money.
You were here because you believed English wasn’t just a language it was a bridge. A way to understand people. To listen before judging. To look past accents, appearances, and first impressions. Cliché? Maybe. But that was just how you were wired.
You didn’t become a teacher to earn a paycheck.
You became one to teach lessons that could quietly change how someone viewed the world, to soften it, even just a little.
“Yow, Mr. Y/N Yoo. The head is looking for you.”
You groaned.
Not because your coffee had gone cold, no, that was already a lost cause but because whenever the head called for you, it usually meant one thing: problematic students, special cases, or classes the other teachers didn’t want to touch.
And honestly?
Fuck those guys. If you were going to pick and choose students based on difficulty, you had no business being a teacher.
Inside the office, the head didn’t waste time.
“Y/N, I’ll make it quick, since your coffee’s already cold. You’ll be teaching this Russian—”
“German girl,” you interrupted. “I checked earlier.”
“Right. German,” he corrected himself with a sigh. “Anyway, you know how it is.”
“Yeah,” you replied flatly. “Bullshit the other teachers don’t want.”
He chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.
“Honestly, man, can’t blame you. Don’t worry, I’ll make sure your recommendation letter is amazing. Besides, this is your last teaching job at this school anyway.”
“Yeah, yeah. Whatever,” you muttered. “You owe me a beer.”
“Make it double. On me.”
What most people didn’t know was that Felix Lee, the so-called intimidating head of the department, was actually your high school buddy. Back then, he had this loud, chaotic friend group called Stray Kids, and somehow, you became the honorary extra member who just… never left.
Which was exactly why, behind closed doors, professionalism went out the window. No titles. No fake politeness. Just two tired adults who survived school together and somehow ended up running it.
You grabbed the student file from his desk, flipping it open casually unaware that this “German girl” was about to change your quiet teaching routine in ways you hadn’t prepared for.
Liz had settled quietly in Seoul over the past two days. Her Korean, though limited, was enough to surprise locals. Many hadn’t expected her to speak it at all. What surprised her even more was their reaction: warm smiles, excited greetings, and genuine curiosity. They seemed delighted by the fact that she was half-Korean.
For a moment, Liz’s heart lifted. She had expected stares of judgment, whispers of disdain, maybe even disgust just like the stories her father had once told her. But instead, she felt… acceptance. Perhaps time had moved on, and old traditions or social stigmas had softened with it.
It gave her hope. Maybe, just maybe, she could one day meet her mother’s family without fear. But for now, she had no leads, no clues, no real plan. So she decided to focus on her first day at school.
Her classroom was a vibrant mix of students from all over the world, diverse faces, diverse accents, united by the same goal: learning English. Liz carefully chose a seat in the corner on the left, tucked near a stack of books. To her right sat a bright-eyed Japanese girl, who smiled warmly at her.
“Hi! I’m Rei Naoi. Nice to meet you.”
Rei extended her hand confidently and Liz froze. Fluent German. A Japanese student speaking perfect German? Whats next? An Italian who can speak japanese? Liz barely had time to register the thought before Rei’s next words broke her out of her surprise.
“I heard the teacher is hot.”
Liz let out a small laugh.
“I prefer a nice personality,” she replied.
“With a big dic—”
The classroom doors swung open, and every noise instantly died down. You walked in, laptop in one hand, notebook in the other. Rei’s eyes sparkled in excitement and you couldn’t blame her. Even by professional standards, you had presence.
“Alright, everyone. I’m Y/N Yoo, and I’ll be your teacher for the next five months. My goal is not just to teach you English but to teach you how to use it properly, respectfully, and effectively. Since I’ve introduced myself, let’s start with introductions. Just say your name and age. Simple, easy, no pressure.”
As students began introducing themselves, Liz felt a flutter of nervousness. She had always been shy, and being far from Bavaria, surrounded by strangers, made it even more daunting. But your kind, encouraging tone helped ease her anxiety. Small comments like your praise of Nagoya chocolates brought gentle laughter and eased the tension, setting the class atmosphere into a friendly, no-judgment zone.
Finally, it was her turn.
“I’m Elizabeth Helga Müller, 22 years old.”
You gave a light-hearted grin. “You already beat me in drinking alcohol… age 8, right?”
Liz laughed. Not at the joke itself, but at your delivery. Warm, teasing, and somehow comforting.
The class ran from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but the hours didn’t feel long. The lesson wasn’t a traditional lecture, it felt more like a group of friends hanging out. You didn’t really teach grammar or drills on the first day. Instead, you asked the students to talk about their favorite foods in Korea, guiding them gently to describe each dish in English. The exercise was fun, interactive, and unintimidating, a perfect icebreaker.
By the end of the day, Liz felt a soft warmth in her chest. The fear and nerves she’d carried melted into something lighter: curiosity, excitement, and maybe a little belonging.
For the first time since arriving in Seoul, Liz thought, maybe this adventure wouldn’t be so scary after all.
The classes had ended, but Liz wasn’t ready to leave just yet. She had brought a book with her, determined to practice English on her own. Not just reading quietly, no, she said every word out loud, correcting her own grammar as she went. She was so absorbed that the world around her faded completely.
When she finally glanced at her phone, her heart skipped. 7:32 p.m.
Panic set in. She scrambled out of the school building, nerves prickling as darkness surrounded her. Seoul at night was unfamiliar, and every shadow felt like a possible threat. Heads turned to look at her as she hurried along the streets, and you couldn’t really blame them, Liz’s European looks were striking, almost otherworldly.
Her chest tightened. What if someone… someone tried to grab her? What if she couldn’t do anything? Fear clutched her like icy fingers, and she picked up her pace, eyes darting around.
Then, a familiar voice broke through the haze.
“Liz?”
Her head snapped up and there you were, casually strolling down the street with a bag slung over your shoulder, munching happily on a fish stick. Relief flooded her chest, and she ran toward you like a light cutting through darkness.
“Mr. Yoo!” she called.
“Mmmgh?”
You spoke with your cheeks puffed full of fish sticks, looking ridiculously adorable in the process. Liz couldn’t help but giggle, it reminded her of the squirrels back in Germany, hurrying to store nuts for winter, mouths impossibly stuffed.
“You look… full, Mr. Yoo,” she managed between laughs.
“Please,” you said with a grin, swallowing quickly, “just call me Y/N. We’re not in school anymore anyway.”
Liz nodded, but her eyes had already wandered to the food in your hand. You caught her stare, and with a playful shrug, offered her some.
“You want some?”
“Ah, no I—”
Before either of you could react, her stomach growled loudly, echoing in the quiet street. Liz froze. And then, in a mix of embarrassment and disbelief, she sank to her knees, curling up and burying her face in her hands, her cheeks burning bright tomato red.
She wished, desperately, that the ground would just swallow her whole.
You crouched beside her, chuckling softly. “Hey, it’s okay. Happens to everyone. Here, try it.” You offered the fish stick gently.
Liz peeked through her fingers, hesitant, but a tiny smile tugged at her lips despite the blush. Even in the middle of her mortifying moment, something about this felt… safe.
The vendor handed Liz a fish stick, skewered together with a few golden-brown squid balls. Her eyes went wide in awe as she examined the food, completely captivated.
You blinked. That didn’t look like a regular fish stick. It looked… special. Was this old lady vendor giving her special treatment? You raised an eyebrow, curious but staying silent.
“Oh wow,” Liz murmured, taking a careful bite. Her face lit up instantly. “This… this tastes so good. Very good.”
“Huh,” you teased, crossing your arms, “you speak fluent English when your stomach’s fed, huh?”
Liz giggled, shaking her head. “Food is food. And this… this is really good. How about you, Y/N? You live nearby?”
“Ah, yeah,” you said, nodding toward a familiar street. “My apartment’s just this way.”
Her eyes went wide. “No way! That’s… my direction too!”
Yep. You already knew where this was going. You’d seen enough K-dramas and Korean manhwa to know exactly how these things usually played out.
“I… if you want, I can leave and find a new apartment—” you started, bracing yourself.
“NO!” Liz exclaimed so loudly that the vendor jumped. She clutched her chest, cheeks burning red as if she’d just survived a mini heart attack. She quickly waved her hands apologetically. “I… I’m sorry!”
She took a deep breath and looked at you, eyes wide but earnest. “What I mean is… I don’t mind, Y/N. You don’t have to adjust your life for me.”
“I wasn’t—” you began, but she cut you off.
“You’re such a good person, Y/N.”
“I didn’t—”
“Let’s go.”
She started walking ahead, tugging her bag over her shoulder, cheeks still tinged pink. You watched her for a moment, a small smile tugging at your lips, before paying for her meal and shrugging. Following her wasn’t a burden, it felt natural, somehow.
The walk to the apartment was surprisingly easy. Conversation flowed naturally from light questions about English to more personal topics.
You learned that Liz was quietly searching for her mother, a woman she had barely met. Her tone held a mixture of curiosity and longing, and you felt a gentle tug in your chest, wanting to reassure her somehow.
Liz, in turn, learned more about you. That you hadn’t wanted to be a teacher at first, that it was only when you discovered the joy of seeing students succeed, the small celebrations of their victories, and the way you could inspire them to be the “new hope of the future,” that you found your calling.
“You have a soft heart for kids,” Liz cooed softly, and you could feel her lowkey admiration in the way she said it. You couldn’t help but smile, it was a subtle compliment, and you recognized that spark of interest in her.
She also found out that you were only a year older than her, which surprised her. Your calm, confident aura gave the impression of someone in their UNC years or maybe older but not someone just a year her senior.
And then… destiny decided to play a hand. Not only did she live in the same apartment building, but she was also your next-door neighbor.
Liz giggled as she saw your face go pale. You froze, caught somewhere between panic, disbelief, and something you didn’t quite want to admit, excitement. She’s your student. Your student! The situation was straight out of a K-drama, and you weren’t sure whether to be furious, worried, or… well, intrigued.
“Well, good night, Y/N Oppa! Hehe.”
She chuckled lightly, the sound drifting from behind her apartment door. Then came the soft click of the lock.
You groaned, collapsing backward onto your bed with a thud, letting your hands cover your face.
“I’m… cooked,” you muttered to yourself, half in frustration, half in disbelief.
The universe had just thrown you into a full-on rom-com scenario, and there was no escape.
As the weeks passed, you and Liz slowly fell into a routine one that neither of you questioned anymore.
By her request, you started arriving at school together. Liz said it helped her familiarize herself with the streets of Seoul, learning landmarks and shortcuts while walking safely beside you. She even waited for you after class, lingering around until you clocked out. You didn’t mind at all, after all, you were neighbors. It felt… natural.
You helped her with her English lessons in her apartment, sitting across from her at the small table as she practiced pronunciation, brows furrowed in concentration. At the same time, you helped her search for her mother, scrolling through forums, visiting old neighborhoods, asking questions with nothing but a grainy photograph to guide you.
You circled nearly all of Seoul together.
The crowds didn’t help. There were simply too many people, too many faces. Still, you stayed by her side. Something about Liz’s determination inspired you, the way she chased someone she barely knew, fueled by nothing but hope and courage.
And no matter how exhausting the day became, there was always one constant.
The fish-stick vendor.
That small stand had become your place. After class. After searching. After long, emotionally draining days. Liz had grown especially fond of fish sticks, only when eaten with you, she insisted. Standing shoulder to shoulder, laughing, teasing each other, arguing over stupid things like whether squid balls counted as fish sticks, it felt easy. Comfortable.
Dangerously comfortable.
Because people started to notice.
Your fellow teachers raised eyebrows. Some of them, too many of them, lowkey tried flirting with Liz during breaks or whenever she studied in the library. Liz would smile politely, excuse herself, and immediately look for you instead.
Which only made things worse.
You and Liz were practically glued together, from morning walks to late-night study sessions. And your colleagues hated it. They hated you. And eventually… they’d had enough.
Morning sunlight spilled gently into the classroom. Students chatted quietly as they waited for you to arrive.
Liz stood by the door, bag hugged close to her chest. She’d wanted to walk with you that morning, but you were gone. No knock. No text. Just silence. She later found out it was because of a sudden meeting.
It was the first time in weeks she hadn’t walked with you.
She pouted the entire morning.
When the classroom doors finally opened, Liz lit up, only for her smile to disappear instantly.
It wasn’t you.
It was Felix.
“Guys,” he said calmly, hands tucked into his pockets, “I’ll be your new teacher starting today. Mr. Yoo is resigning.”
The words hit like a punch to the chest.
Liz’s entire world crumbled.
There was no way.
You still had two months left in the five-month program.
The classroom erupted. Voices overlapped, chairs scraped against the floor, students protested loudly. They hated the idea of losing you—their teacher, their friend, the one who made learning feel human.
Liz sat frozen.
Gone?
Just like that?
Her fingers trembled as she clenched them into fists, heart pounding painfully in her chest.
No.
You wouldn’t leave her like this.
Not without saying goodbye.
Liz didn’t even hear the rest of Felix’s words.
The moment his voice registered, she grabbed her bag and bolted, zooming past the classroom door and out of the school. Her legs carried her forward on pure instinct, sprinting through the streets of Seoul as dark clouds gathered overhead, thunder rumbling its warning. She didn’t hear it. She didn’t feel anything but panic.
She ran.
And ran.
And ran—
Until she reached your apartment.
She didn’t bother knocking. German strength and desperation burst the door open as she stumbled inside, only to be met with silence.
The apartment was empty.
Cold.
Still.
Lifeless.
The space where she had shared hotpot with you just last week, laughing, arguing over ingredients, feeling at home now felt hollow. It was the complete opposite of everything she associated with you.
You were full.
Warm.
Happy.
And now… gone.
Tears spilled freely down her cheeks.
“Not again,” she whispered brokenly.
She had already lost her mama once. Now this too? Liz begged the universe to wake her up, to let this be nothing more than a cruel dream. For once, just once, she had believed she found hope in the middle of her struggles.
But life was unfair.
You already separated me from my mother, she thought shakily.
Why do you have to take him too?
The tears wouldn’t stop.
Outside, rain began to drizzle, soft at first, then heavier. Liz walked out into it without caring, clutching the grainy photograph of her mother tightly against her chest. What was the point of finishing the class if the person who made it meaningful was gone?
The rain soaked through her clothes, her hair, her skin but she felt nothing.
Her mind shut down.
Until suddenly… the rain stopped.
Confused, Liz slowly looked up.
Standing before her was the same warm old lady who always sold fish sticks, now holding an umbrella over her, shielding her from the rain.
“Aigoo,” the woman scolded gently, voice soft and familiar. “Are you Superman? You’ll get sick if you get soaked like that.”
Her warmth was overwhelming. Too warm.
The woman’s eyes drifted to the photo in Liz’s trembling hands. She reached out carefully, almost reverently, and took it. her lips curling into a soft smile.
“My… how young was I when this was taken.”
Liz’s breath hitched.
Her eyes widened as life rushed back into them all at once.
Could it be?
“M-Mama?” she whispered, barely daring to say the word.
The woman smiled fully now, eyes shining.
“Aigoo,” she said fondly, her German accent slipping through like a long-lost melody. “You grew up to be such a pretty lady, my kleine Prinzessin.”
Liz shattered.
She threw herself into the woman’s arms, sobbing uncontrollably as she hugged her tightly. After twenty-two years—twenty-two years—she had finally found her.
That accent.
That warmth.
This was her mother.
Her mama.
“MAMA!!” Liz cried.
The woman laughed softly, hugging her back just as tightly.
“Aigoo… still a crybaby, huh?”
And for the first time in her life, Liz cried, not from loss, but from finally being found.
Her mother held her quietly, stroking her back as the rain softened into a distant memory. After a while, Liz pulled away, smiling despite her tear-streaked cheeks.
“Mama… I want to talk to you about so many things,” Liz said softly, then hesitated. “But I want to—”
“Look for Y/N?” her mother finished gently.
Liz froze.
“He’s at the stall,” her mother continued with a knowing smile. “I made sure he works there for a bit, to clear his head.”
Liz gasped. There was no way her mother already knew—
“Go,” her mother said, nudging her lightly. “I saw how he cared for you these past months. He’s always been a good soul. Too good for his own heart.” Her eyes twinkled. “Remind him why you never make a German girl cry.”
Liz laughed through her tears and didn’t waste another second. She bolted toward the fish-stick stand, hope burning bright once more.
Her mother watched her go, shaking her head fondly.
“She really got her father’s spirit,” she murmured.
Meanwhile, you stood behind the stall, mindlessly flipping fish sticks, eyes dull and unfocused.
Felix’s voice echoed in your head, how he couldn’t even defend you during the meeting. The accusations. Exploiting a student. Inappropriate. You tried to explain that circumstances happened, that nothing crossed a line, but no one listened.
So you quit.
You were planning to leave anyway… but it still hurt.
What hurt more was knowing you wouldn’t see Liz again.
You’d started falling for her, slowly, quietly. And leaving without a word? That would haunt you.
Lost in thought, you barely noticed the sudden thud against your shoulder.
“Ow—!”
“That,” a familiar voice snapped, “was for scaring me.”
You turned, stunned.
Liz stood there, soaked, eyes blazing, breath uneven. Fire lived in her gaze.
You swallowed.
You really did forget how strong German women were.
“Liz, I—”
She didn’t let you finish.
She grabbed your collar and pulled you in, kissing you with everything she’d been holding back, a kiss worth a million explanations, apologies, and promises.
You froze for half a second… then decided it was safer to go with it than risk being suplexed.
When she pulled away, she laughed softly and wrapped her arms around you.
“Don’t leave me like that,” she said, voice trembling but sure. “Ever again. Okay?”
You hugged her back just as tightly.
“Okay,” you whispered. “I promise I won’t run away again.”
“Good,” she said with a grin. “Because I need a homeschool teacher now. Hehe.”
You both laughed, warmth settling between you, real, earned, and steady.
This moment would stay with you both.
Because in life, love doesn’t have to be loud or dramatic. It doesn’t have to be just physical or just emotional. Love can be patience. Choice. Staying.
Even with barriers between worlds, love always finds a way.
(This story somehow highlights one of my biggest fear. I wonder if you guys can spot that)
Beyond being a simple morning ritual, it serves as a reliable companion through the ebb and flow of a demanding schedule. The rich, earthy aroma alone acts as a psychological signal that the day has officially begun, grounding the senses before the inevitable rush of emails and deadlines takes over. For many, that first warm sip is a non-negotiable gateway to productivity, offering the mental clarity and stamina required to navigate a modern world that rarely slows down. Whether enjoyed in a quiet kitchen at dawn or shared during a hurried mid-afternoon break, coffee remains the universal fuel that transforms a daunting to-do list into a series of manageable tasks.
In the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, where the neon lights never dim and the city truly never sleeps, coffee serves as the silent pulse of the district. Amidst the towering skyscrapers and the relentless pace of Teheran-ro, the bitter-sweet scent of espresso drifts from high-end boutiques and 24-hour kiosks alike, acting as a necessary anchor for the sleepless professionals and students navigating the urban grind. Here, a cup of coffee is not just a drink; it is a vital intermission in a culture that prizes speed and efficiency, providing the fuel needed to power through long nights and the early mornings that follow without a pause.
It was just another day for Yujin. Another morning, another shift, another cup of coffee she wouldn’t even get to finish. Being a barista wasn’t exactly part of the plan, not that the plan survived contact with reality anyway. College was supposed to be it. Her dream university, big gates, bigger dreams. She tried the entrance exams once. Failed. Tried again. Failed harder. By the third attempt, she stared at the rejection email, sighed, and muttered, “Fuck it. Let’s ball,” before updating her résumé and applying for literally anything that didn’t require a degree.
And here she was.
She yawned as she walked down the same painfully familiar streets she’d memorized by heart, the early morning air still clinging to her skin. Every step toward the café felt automatic at this point. The job wasn’t even her first choice, okay, it wasn’t her second or third either but it was close to her apartment, and that alone felt like a small win in an otherwise losing streak.
The city was already awake. Joggers, office workers, couples arguing quietly over breakfast plans. Yujin passed them all with half-lidded eyes until she saw them. Students. Bright-eyed, half-asleep, wearing university IDs that bounced mockingly against their chests. That familiar sting hit her right in the ribs.
She looked away quickly, shoving her hands into her jacket pockets. It was fine. Totally fine. She had coffee skills now. Espresso shots, latte art, emotional resilience—probably. Still, as she pushed open the café door, the bell chiming above her head, Yujin couldn’t help thinking that some mornings hurt more than others.
Unfortunately for her, this morning was just getting started.
The thought of what could’ve been crept up on her when she least expected it. If she had made it into college, would things be different now? Would she be a star student, the kind professors praised in class? Or maybe she’d be thriving in her course, complaining about deadlines instead of minimum wage shifts? The questions lingered, unwelcome and persistent, like background noise she couldn’t quite mute.
They haunted her from time to time, usually in quiet moments like this, when there was nothing to distract her but her own thoughts. Yujin shook her head slightly, as if she could physically fling the what-ifs away. Thinking about it wouldn’t change anything.
Except when she saw happy couples.
That was when Yujin’s face would immediately sour, her lips twisting into a barely concealed grimace. She wasn’t just uninterested in romance, she was aggressively anti-romantic. Seeing couples hold hands, whisper sweet nothings, or share pastries like it was a movie montage made her want to gag. Especially couples her age. Twenty-three and in love? Disgusting. Criminal, even.
There had been one incident at the café, an incident she preferred to think of as a public service. A couple sat by the window, giggling nonstop, calling each other “babe” every five seconds. Something inside Yujin snapped. She made their drinks extra dark, extra bitter, the kind of coffee that tasted like unresolved trauma. As for the bread they ordered? Slightly over-toasted. Dry. Unforgiving.
She even paid for the entire order afterward, just to ensure she could watch the chaos guilt-free.
The result? Silence. Side-eye. Passive-aggressive comments. And finally, an argument.
Yujin stood behind the counter, wiping a perfectly clean cup, smiling like she’d just won an Olympic medal. Watching a couple she personally ruined bicker over whose idea it was to come here brought her an unreasonable amount of joy.
A devil in disguise, armed with an espresso machine and a harmless smile.
“Unnie, your smiling like a crazy person again.”
Yujin turned to her left to see Liz matching her pace. Liz was another employee at the Cafe they work at, ‘IVE Cafe’ is the name of their workplace. There 5, no actually 4 of them in the cafe working. The manager, the 3 staff members and the other princess that can work or not work whenever she wants too, why? Cause she owns the cafe, a rich person.
“Come on, you know how I hate couples. Nothing brings me joy than seeing them in misery”
“Your such a sad soul Unnie. No wonder no guys are hitting on you.”
Yujin was about to hit her alright if Liz didnt act all cute and innocent towards her. Just like her, Liz was also a college reject but unlike her who dreamed to enter a university, She didnt want to be in college and pursue arts. But with lack of support from her parents who forced her to enter college, Liz purposely failed her exam to be free from the shackles of her parents to be free. And thats how she landed on IVE cafe as a fellow barista along side Yujin.
“Your lucky your cute like a cat or I would have knocked you out”
“Goo Goo Gaga.”
Yujin was done with Liz antics and was ready to strangle her when another familiar face bumped into them, a japanese girl from Nagoya.
“Oh hey, your both early, have you seen my tiktok?”
Rei asked the two as Liz nodded while Yujin shrugged, acting indifferent as usual. Rei was another staff member for IVE cafe who was more into social media than everyone combined at the cafe. The music there is always her choice. There was one time an RnB was playing that matches the cafe’s ambiance then all of a sudden Naruto’s Opening Blue bird played. That's Rei for you, an unpredictable cashier at the cafe.
“Well would you look at that. All of you are here early.”
A small woman spoke wearing the IVE’s uniform as she stood opening the doors of the cafe. Yujin nodded greeting her manager as Rei and Liz Followed.
“Morning Gaeul Unnie.”
They all chimed as Gaeul Nodded back. Gaeul was a good manager and actually cares for her staff compared to customers. It was such a weird flex for Yujin to have a manager that actually vibes with you despite having a staff with diverse personality. But dont let that fool you as Gaeul can also be a heartless boss when she needed too. Yujin will never forget that one time she had a one on one interview for her job and Gaeul looked like she would kill her asking simple questions. Thats why Yujin promised herself not to ever get into her bad side no matter what.
As the trio began wearing their uniform ready to start their day as Liz started up the coffee machine. The door chimed in and appear another 2 familiar face. Gaeul sighed shaking her head seeing a tall princess smile happily as if the world wasnt shit.
“Wonyoung, you working or not?”
“Nope. I’m just here to watch from the sidelines today, unnie,”
“Plus, I kinda wanna see you break up another happy couple.”
Yujin scoffed. “You say that like it’s a sport.”
Jang Wonyoung, the café owner at twenty-two. Yep. A whole year younger than Yujin and already owning a business like it was a casual hobby. Filthy rich thanks to her family’s wealth, but don’t let that fool you. Wonyoung wasn’t just some spoiled heiress playing café. She was a law graduate. From Harvard. And she started there at sixteen.
Sixteen.
Back then, Yujin was seventeen and still figuring out how to survive exams without emotional damage.
The two of them went way back, long before espresso machines and life crises entered the picture. Yujin always knew Wonyoung was smart, terrifyingly smart, actually. Academically, at least. Because when it comes to men? Absolute disaster.
Unlike Yujin, who hated romance with a passion, Wonyoung fell for guys way too easily. A smile, a compliment, a half-decent jawline and boom! Hooked.
Yujin had lost count of how many times she’d stepped in to save Wonyoung from questionable life choices. Honestly, if she wasn’t around, there was a very real chance Wonyoung would’ve been married to a walking red flag by now, forget red flag, she could be married to a literal Red cross.
Possibly unemployed.
Possibly Homeless.
Yup, sound like a crack addict.
Yujin glanced at her friend, then sighed dramatically.
“I swear, I’m doing the world a favor by staying single and keeping you alive.”
Wonyoung just smiled, completely unoffended. “And that’s why I keep you around.”
Aside the tall figure is a smaller cuter version of Gaeul. Sometimes the staff forget or mislook the girl as she completely look like a cuter verson of Gaeul. They are even the same in height.
“Leeseo, you’re quite early today,”
Yujin said while reaching for a cup. “Morning classes?”
Leeseo shook her head quickly.
“No, Yujin-unnie. I’m just here to work on my research paper. My classes are all in the afternoon today.”
Leeseo had a special place in the café’s history. She was the very first customer IVE Café ever had, two years ago, back when she was still a freshman. Everyone remembered that day clearly, how she stood outside in the autumn cold, shoulders hunched, scarf pulled up as if it could shield her from both the breeze and the world.
She’d been too shy to even step inside.
That was, of course, until Wonyoung locked eyes with her through the glass. The moment their gazes met, Wonyoung swung the door open and practically dragged her inside without listening to a single protest. Gaeul had apologized profusely for Wonyoung’s enthusiasm, but Leeseo only smiled nervously and said it was okay.
She ordered a latte that day.
Leeseo wasn’t much of a coffee person, but she figured that if she was going to survive college, she should at least try caffeine once during her entire tenure. What she didn’t expect was how good it tasted. Warm. Comforting. Familiar, even.
From that day on, she kept coming back.
Somewhere along the way, Leeseo stopped feeling like just another customer. She became part of the café, someone everyone greeted by name, someone who knew which table had the wobbly leg, someone who belonged.
Yujin slid her usual drink across the counter with a small smile. “Same order?”
Leeseo nodded, already pulling out her laptop. “Always.”
Not long after, the café began to buzz with life. Regulars mixed with first-time customers, the soft hum of conversation blending with the sound of steaming milk and clinking cups. IVE Café had grown surprisingly popular lately—not just for its aesthetics, but for the comfort it offered. The kind of place that didn’t feel like a business trying to rush you out, but a second home you were allowed to linger in.
Every table was spaced just right, giving customers enough room to exist comfortably in their own little bubbles. No awkward elbow bumps. No feeling like you were intruding on someone else’s moment.
But that wasn’t the only reason people kept coming back.
IVE Café was also famously known for having what customers jokingly called six visual queens.
There was Gaeul, the manager, whose quiet beauty and calm presence made everything run smoothly. Liz, with her striking, almost European,specifically German features that turned heads the moment she smiled. Rei, whose Japanese cuteness and cheerful energy could brighten even the grumpiest morning. Wonyoung, the owner herself, carrying princess-like visuals that made people forget she was also terrifyingly smart.
Then there was Leeseo, the honorary member. The café’s unofficial crush. Technically a customer, but treated like family.
And of course, Yujin.
No frills. No forced smiles. Just her tomboyish aura, rolled-up sleeves, and effortless confidence behind the counter. Somehow, that made people like her even more. Maybe because she didn’t try.
What really surprised Yujin, though, was just how shameless these guys were. They were firing off lines like bad archers shooting from way downtown, terrible aim, zero accuracy, and yet somehow still trying. Every flirt, every half-baked compliment, made her cringe so hard she thought her face might crack.
And Yujin didn’t hold back. She roasted them mercilessly. “Pathetic,” she would say. “Go take a shower, seriously.” Or, “Try harder, or just stop embarrassing yourself.” Fireballs of truth, served with a side of deadpan.
Normally, this would be enough to demoralize anyone. Enough to make someone retreat into the safety of their dignity. But not these guys. Oh no. Every insult, every savage comment, only seemed to fuel them. Somehow, her brutal honesty made them more in love with her.
Yujin stared at them like they had grown two heads. She could feel her blood pressure rise just thinking about how desperate and utterly clueless these guys were.
This was horrifying. And yet… maybe a little funny. In a “how is this real life?” kind of way.
“Wow, unnie, you’re so pretty,” Liz said, smirking knowingly.
“Cyka blyat,” Yujin shot back without missing a beat.
Liz blinked. “Wait… Russian?”
Yujin rolled her eyes. “Yeah. Because apparently, today’s a special occasion? all the dudes here are idiots, and I can’t even pretend to be polite.”
Liz laughed, leaning on the counter. “Not one of them has been normal, huh?”
Yujin groaned. “If I see one more guy act like he’s in a drama series just to flirt with me, I swear I’ll—” She paused, glaring at a hapless customer fumbling with his order. “…punch them and mind my own business.”
“Hold on, unnie,” Liz interjected with mock indignation, “I’m German. Why’d you call me out in Russian?”
“Oh, then… Verpiss dich!” Yujin shot back.
Liz gasped dramatically, clutching her chest like Yujin had just insulted her soul. “Wie kannst du es wagen, Yujin!”
Yujin smirked, clearly entertained by Liz’s theatrics. “Oh, come on. You love it.”
Liz huffed, but there was a mischievous sparkle in her eyes. “Maybe I do. But don’t think I won’t get you back for this.”
Yujin chuckled, shaking her head. Liz wasnt german at all, its only her visuals that say that yet somehow she knows how to speak german all of a sudden. Perhaps Liz is german by spirit or by soul who knows? It will be a forever mystery why she wrote on her portfolio the name Elizabeth Helga Müller.
The doorbell chimed indicating a customer as Yujin sigh mentally preparing herself for another wierdo of a customer. You walked inside the cafe wanting a classic strawberry frappe to go as you only have 15 minutes left for you lunch break. You work as a nearby engineer designer for Kia motors seoul branch, and being the head engineer for team 3, those rookies needed your guidance despite being 23 years old. Yujin eyed you and did her usual greeting.
“Hello how may I take your order?”
“One strawberry frappe to go please.”
“That would be ₩7,300 please.”
Yujin was waiting for that cringe punchline that everyone has been doing yet you simply pulled out your card and handed it to Yujin. She blinked. For the first time in forever, Someone was normal. As if she was interacting with her own kind of people. A human being.
“Uhh you okay miss?”
You asked snapping the surprise thought of Yujin. She softly coughed and swallowed her saliva to remind herself that she was still working.
“Ah, yes sorry sir.”
Yujin did the usual, swiping the card and asking for your pin but her head was still processing the fact that your acting normal. Nothing has been normal so far but this person. It was such a breath of fresh air that even after paying and you took your seat, Yujin just stared at you admiring you from a far while you sit down waiting for you order watching the lakers give belt to the OKC fraudulents–I mean Thunder.
Liz snapped her fingers in front of Yujin’s face, yanking her out of her daze. Yujin glared at her, genuinely pissed.
“What?” she muttered.
“You’re staring at him like you want to pounce,” Liz said, smirking devilishly.
Yujin’s lips curled into a sly grin. “Yeah… well, maybe I am.”
“Wait, what?” Liz’s eyes widened in mock horror.
Yujin smirked, completely unbothered. “Y/N! Drink for Y/N!”
You stood, reaching for the drink, and the brief contact, just your fingers brushing hers sent an unexpected shiver down her spine. Her heart thumped faster than it should. Oh yeah. She was hooked. No doubt about it.
Her eyes didn’t leave you as you left the café. Anti-romantic? She might have been, once. But that tiny, fleeting moment… maybe it had cracked her perspective on love just a little.
“Someone said… love?”
Yujin jumped, spinning around. Wonyoung had appeared out of nowhere, like smoke, grinning wickedly.
“Unnie, your eyes are shining! Hehe, who is it?”
Yujin groaned, rubbing her temple. “Don’t even start, Wonyoung…”
Wonyoung laughed, clearly not listening. “Oh, come on. I’ve never seen you like this!”
Yujin shot her a look that could melt steel but inside, her thoughts were screaming: What is happening to me? I don’t do this. I’m not supposed to do this. I’m Yujin! Anti-romance queen! And yet..
Throughout the day, Yujin couldn’t get you out of her head. Why were you affecting her so much just by being… simple, normal, nonchalant? Every time she thought about that brief contact at the counter, her chest felt a little too warm, her thoughts a little too loud. She groaned loudly as the “Closed” sign swung up.
“Girls! Group meeting!” Wonyoung’s voice rang out, commanding yet playful. “Including Leeseo, of course.”
Yujin groaned again, dragging herself to the table, already predicting what was coming.
“Why?” she muttered under her breath.
Wonyoung waved her hand like a conductor about to direct a symphony. “Because our anti-romantic queen is troubled by love! And as a certified Love Guru, it’s my specialty to guide Yujin unnie to the promised land!”
Yujin snorted, dropping her forehead flat onto the table. “More like… Disaster Guru.”
A few chuckles rippled around the group. Liz leaned back, smirking, Rei grinned cheekily, and even Leeseo tried not to laugh outright.
Yujin peeked at them from under her arms, already regretting this decision.
“So how was he?”
Gaeul Asked as she sat down. Yujin could only sigh as she spoke.
“He just look simple and plain. Not a weirdo you know like hes just minding his business.”
Gaeul and the rest of the girls nodded as they speak on their minds on what Yujin should but overall? Yujin was simply thinking about herself on why she was captivated by someone average. Sure Yujin has her own standards and type when it comes to mind but her mind cant fathom that a simple guy got her attention that much?
That question kept looping in Yujin’s mind as the days passed. Why did someone so simple, so nonchalant, get under her skin so easily? She hadn’t seen you since that day, and part of her told herself it was for the best. Out of sight, out of mind. Easy.
This was better for her. Hope is something she has given up on a long time ago and if you were gonna be that hope, she prays that you will never show up so she can save herself from her own pain of being a failure.
But she cant decide who will dictate her life, because thats destiny's job to write down her story. You were gonna arrive one way or another, destiny made sure of that.
Then came a rainy afternoon.
The kind where the sky stayed gray, rain drumming steadily against the windows, and the café felt quieter than usual. There were no customers, none brave enough to step out into the downpour, except for Leeseo, who stayed tucked into her usual seat, warming her hands around a mug and avoiding the rain altogether.
No one expected anyone else to come in.
And then the door opened.
The bell chimed softly as you stepped inside, water clinging to the long trench coat you wore over your formal, business attire. You looked like you’d walked straight out of a movie. Soaked but composed, tired yet undeniably put-together.
Yujin felt her breath hitch.
Her cheeks warmed instantly, a blush creeping up before she could stop it. Oh no. Not him. Not now.
From behind the counter, five pairs of eyes shifted toward her. One by one, smirks spread across their faces.
Liz raised a brow. Rei hid her grin behind her hand. Gaeul pretended not to notice badly. Even Leeseo peeked up from her laptop, eyes widening slightly in recognition.
Wonyoung, of course, looked thrilled.
Yujin swallowed, gripping the counter a little too tightly. This wasn’t just coincidence. This was fate. Or karma. Or whatever cruel force decided today was the perfect chance to test her so-called anti-romantic resolve.
And judging by the rain outside, she wasn’t escaping anytime soon.
“Hello, sorry if I look soaked,” you said with a small, polite smile. “Can I order another strawberry frappe, please? Thank you.”
Your voice was warm. Too warm. The kind that slipped past Yujin’s defenses before she could stop it. She hesitated for half a second, just long enough to feel her heart trip over itself before forcing her hands to move.
“Y-yeah. One strawberry frappe,” she replied, struggling to keep her footing, mentally and physically.
She managed to make the drink, her movements stiff, overly careful. Don’t mess this up. Don’t mess this up. But fate, as always, had other plans.
As she turned to hand it to you, her foot slipped.
Time slowed.
The cup tilted. The shake lifted into the air. Yujin’s eyes widened in horror as she braced herself for humiliation–
Only for strong arms to catch her before she fell.
You pulled her in instinctively, steady and quick, the drink splattering harmlessly behind you instead, pink streaks staining your coat as it hit the floor.
Yujin froze.
She was pressed against you, hands gripping your jacket, heart pounding so loudly she was sure everyone could hear it. It didn’t help that the café’s background music chose that exact moment to play “Me and You” by Adrian Milanio, soft and romantic, as if mocking her entire anti-romance ideology.
Behind you, the café went dead silent.
Five pairs of eyes widened.
Wonyoung’s smirk was lethal.
Liz covered her mouth to stop herself from screaming.
Leeseo stared like she’d just witnessed a confession scene from a drama.
Yujin swallowed hard, cheeks burning, her brain completely short-circuiting.
This is it, she thought. This is how I die.
“Are you okay, miss?” you asked gently, your eyes searching hers.
Yujin froze.
You were staring right at her, at her pretty brown eyes like nothing else in the world mattered. For a split second, everything went quiet. No rain. No music. No teasing voices behind the counter. Just you. The way your expression softened made something in her chest ache, and she hated herself a little for how easily her guard was slipping.
Get it together, she scolded herself.
Then reality hit.
Her eyes dropped to your coat, now splattered with strawberry frappe, pink stains spreading across the fabric. “Oh no! your coat,” she blurted out, panic overtaking her embarrassment. “I-I’ll clean it up for you.”
You shook your head calmly. “No need for that. I’m just glad you’re safe.”
You smiled.
And just like that, Yujin’s heart did something incredibly stupid.
Her grip on your jacket loosened, but she still couldn’t bring herself to look away. No teasing. No flirtation. No expectations. Just simple concern, something she hadn’t realized she was craving.
From somewhere behind her, she could feel the girls holding in their reactions.
Anti-romantic queen or not… she was in serious trouble and she hated that.
You let Liz make you another drink while Gaeul apologized profusely for the incident. You only laughed it off, brushing it aside like it was nothing more than a minor inconvenience. That alone made Yujin’s chest feel tight. Why are you so… decent? she thought bitterly.
Unfortunately for her, Wonyoung had decided that one heart-stopping moment wasn’t nearly enough.
“Oh nooo,” Wonyoung suddenly sighed dramatically, pressing a hand to her forehead. “My arms are so tired. I still need someone to help carry the bread boxes to the back.”
Yujin snapped her head toward her. Liar.
Before she could protest, Wonyoung turned to you with her sweetest smile. “Would you mind helping us for a second?”
You nodded without hesitation. “Yeah, sure.”
Yujin’s stomach dropped.
She looked between the two of you, dread twisting with worry and, embarrassingly, excitement. Wonyoung shot her a look that clearly said trust me, already lifting a box and gesturing for Yujin to lead the way.
There it was.
The setup.
Wonyoung was officially setting her best friend up, and Yujin knew it. She swallowed hard, forcing her feet to move toward the back room while you followed closely behind, box in hand.
Her heart raced. Her palms were sweaty. And for the first time in a long while, Yujin wasn’t sure whether she wanted to escape… or see where this led.
Either way, there was no turning back now.
You followed Yujin into the storage room, the bread box balanced easily in your arms. To Yujin’s absolute horror, the designated spot turned out to be the tightest corner imaginable. Wedged between shelves, just narrow enough to be inconvenient and cruel.
She gulped, forcing herself to stay calm as she pointed toward the space.
“Over here,” she said, then muttered under her breath, “On top of me, apparently…”
Somewhere in the café, Wonyoung’s ears probably burned. Yujin wanted to commit a crime.
You nodded like this was the most normal request in the world and lifted the box higher. Yujin stepped in front of you, cheeks burning red as she stared anywhere but your face. The wall, the floor, the labels on the shelves, her own impending doom. She was terrified that the moment her eyes met yours, she’d do something incredibly stupid. Like confess. Or combust.
Then the lights flickered.
Once.
Twice.
And went dark.
Yujin didn’t even think.
She yelped softly and clung to you instantly, arms wrapping around your waist as a small, very un-anti-romantic noise escaped her lips. The tough, savage barista persona vanished in a heartbeat.
She froze.
Oh no.
She was a scaredy cat. Always had been.
Her face burned hotter than before as she realized she was pressed against you, heart racing wildly. She didn’t move. Couldn’t move. Partly out of embarrassment and partly because, to her surprise, she felt… safe.
“You okay, Yujin?” you asked gently.
Just hearing you say her name made her shoulders relax. It softened her in a way she wasn’t ready to admit. She hated how easily her walls were crumbling, all because of your simplicity—your calm, unassuming presence. And yet… here she was.
“Yeah,” she said quietly. “I’m fine, Y/N. Thanks… for letting me hug you.”
You chuckled softly. “It’s okay. I didn’t expect you to be… scared.”
She frowned slightly, pulling back just enough to look at you. “Why would you think that?”
You shrugged, thoughtful. “I don’t know. When I first met you last week, I thought you were this really cool girl. Someone who carries herself with so much confidence. I’m not the most confident guy out there, but seeing that from you… it actually motivated me. Inspired me.”
Yujin froze.
Inspired. Motivated.
The words settled deep, heavier than she expected. She’d spent so long seeing herself as someone who failed, someone stuck, someone bitter. And yet here you were, telling her she’d made an impact on you without even trying.
Her grip on your sleeve tightened slightly. “You’re… inspired by me?”
She let out a small, breathless laugh. “That’s new.”
For the first time, Yujin realized something terrifying.
Maybe she wasn’t just falling for you.
Maybe she was being seen.
Not just as the barista with sharp eyes and killer cold visuals—but as Yujin. The girl who tried. Who dreamed. Who failed over and over again. She had convinced herself this was rock bottom. The end of the road. And now, with you standing in front of her, the doubts she’d buried for so long began to crawl back out.
Maybe she wasn’t bitter at couples because they were disgusting.
Maybe she hated them because they had something she wanted… something she believed she was never capable of having.
“You shouldn’t look up to me.”
You tilted your head slightly, confused. “Why?”
“Can’t you see?!”
Yujin suddenly shoved you back hard. Not enough to hurt, but enough to create distance. Her eyes were glossy now, emotions spilling over faster than she could stop them.
“Look at me!” she cried. “I’m twenty-three and wasting my life as a barista. I couldn’t get into college. Not because I didn’t try, but because I wasn’t capable. Three times. Three times I tried. God, I tried and I failed every single one.”
Her voice cracked.
“It hurts,” she continued bitterly. “It hurts seeing people my age, especially you, successful, thriving, moving forward… while I’m stuck here watching you do this to me.” She laughed weakly, shaking her head. “You confuse me. You make me question everything. Every choice. I hate you.”
“Yujin—”
The tears finally fell, uncontrollable now. This wasn’t about you anymore. It never was. This was years of self-loathing crashing down all at once.
“Why would you choose someone like me?” she sobbed. “Why? I bring nothing. I’d just waste your time. A failure like me doesn’t deserve happiness…”
Her shoulders shook as she cried.
But you didn’t step back.
You stepped closer.
Gently, you lifted her chin, your thumb wiping away her tears with a softness that made her breath hitch. Her skin was warm, fragile, nothing like the tough, confident image she hid behind. And somehow, seeing her like this didn’t push you away.
It pulled you closer.
“You’re not a failure, Yujin.”
She laughed weakly through her tears. “Then what am I?”
Her eyes searched yours, desperate and afraid, as if the answer might save her or break her completely.
You didn’t answer right away.
Not because you didn’t know what to say but because you wanted to say it right.
Your thumb paused against her cheek, warm and steady, grounding. “You’re someone who tried,” you said softly. “Someone who keeps showing up even when it hurts. Someone who failed, yeah but didn’t let that turn her cruel. Just… guarded.”
Yujin’s breath hitched.
“You think success is this straight road,” you continued, eyes never leaving hers. “Like everyone else got a map and you didn’t. But I don’t see a failure when I look at you. I see someone who survived disappointment and still shows kindness in small ways even when she pretends not to.”
She shook her head weakly. “You don’t know how ugly it gets in my head.”
“I don’t,” you admitted. “But I know what it’s like to feel behind. To feel like everyone’s moving and you’re stuck watching.” You smiled faintly. “Being ‘successful’ doesn’t mean I don’t doubt myself every day.”
That surprised her.
“You don’t?” she whispered.
“No,” you said. “But when I walked in here last week and saw you so sure of yourself, so unapologetically you, it helped me. And that matters. Even if you don’t see it yet.”
Her lips trembled.
“You’re not the end of the road, Yujin,” you said gently. “You’re just… at a bend. And yeah, it sucks. But it doesn’t erase who you are. Or who you can still become.”
Silence filled the storage room, broken only by the rain outside and the hum of the lights flickering back on.
Yujin let out a shaky laugh. “You’re really bad at this,” she said, voice hoarse.
You blinked. “At what?”
“At making me hate myself,” she replied, wiping her eyes. “I’ve been doing a pretty good job of that on my own.”
You smiled softly. “Then maybe I’m here to be annoying about it.”
She looked at you for a long moment. Really looked.
Then, quietly, almost afraid, you said, “You don’t have to choose me. Or anything. I just… wanted you to know that the Yujin I see? She deserves happiness. Even if she doesn’t believe it yet.”
Her chest tightened.
And for the first time in a long while, Yujin didn’t immediately argue back.
She just stood there, rain-soaked world paused outside, realizing that maybe, just maybe this wasn’t her bottom pit.
Maybe this was the moment she stopped falling.
“Hug me.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
You didn’t hesitate. You pulled her into your arms, holding her tight, warm, steady, unafraid. It wasn’t dramatic or grand. It was simple. And somehow, that made it feel safe.
Yujin exhaled shakily against your chest.
For the first time in a long while, her thoughts stopped screaming at her. The voices that told her she was behind, that she had failed, that she was unworthy of love, quieted. The weight she’d carried for years didn’t disappear all at once, but it loosened. Enough for her to breathe.
Enough for her to feel.
Love.
It settled in her gently, not like a storm, but like warmth after a long winter. She realized then that maybe love wasn’t something loud or dramatic. Maybe it was being held without judgment. Maybe it was being seen fully and not turned away from.
She pulled back slightly, looking up at you with swollen eyes and a small, brave smile.
“Hey,” she said softly, half-joking, half-serious. “Wanna marry me, Y/N?”
You froze. “M-Marry? We’re skipping dating now?”
She huffed a weak laugh. “Oh, come on. You’ve got a stable job. You’re successful. You’re kind.” Then, quieter, more honest, “And I’m… still figuring things out.” She shrugged. “Unless you want me to just—”
You kissed her.
Soft. Certain. Like an answer.
She stiffened in surprise for a second before melting into it, a small smile forming against your lips. When you pulled away, she smirked through the tears.
“Fine,” she said. “Three dates. Then we talk about marriage. Deal?”
You laughed, brushing your thumb across her cheek. “You’re crazy.”
She grinned, confidence returning but different now. Healthier. “You bet your ass I am,” she teased. “My lover boy.”
You kissed her again, this time slow, intentional, full of promise.
And in that moment, Yujin understood something she never had before.
She wasn’t a failure who stumbled into love.
She was a girl who tried, fell, hurt, and still chose to open her heart. Love didn’t erase her past or magically fix her doubts but it gave her something stronger than self-hatred.
Hope.
As the rain continued to fall outside the café, Yujin no longer felt like she was stuck at the end of the road. For the first time, she felt like she was finally moving forward—not alone, not afraid.
Just loved.
And that was enough.
Meanwhile Through the small window of the storage room outside, the five girls were pressed against the glass, faces squished in equal parts curiosity and glee.
Liz groaned, rain dripping from her hair. “I can’t believe we got soaked for this…”
Rei shivered, hugging herself and shaking her umbrella like a defeated warrior. “Totally worth it. I mean… look at her! She actually confessed!”
Gaeul muttered, teeth chattering, “Why did I agree to Wonyoung’s ridiculous bet again?”
Leeseo just grinned, cheeks pink from excitement. “I knew it! I told you, Yujin’s gonna fall for him eventually!”
And Wonyoung, well, Wonyoung had dragged herself halfway into the puddle, face shining with smug triumph. “Mission accomplished, ladies. The Love Guru never fails.”
The five of them exchanged drenched, exhausted glances, dripping all over the sidewalk but they didn’t care. Watching their best friend finally open her heart?
I know I said that I would upload more frequently and I promise you I did think of that at the start of January. It was supposed to be one of my New Year's resolutions this year but. When I had to Enroll for this semester, I realized I had only a few left units to tackle before I leave this damn University. So it was there that I decided to Lock the fq in for this semester.
I do apologise that I couldn't update you guys about this due to 2 reason:
1. Like I said. I was so focused for this semester.
2. I forgot my Google account that I use in Tumblr.
The number 2 reason is not an exaggeration, I really forgot my account. In hindsight, while I was thinking about this, I decided to come up with a solution where I can still upload while also focusing at Uni. And that's by One upload per month.
Yes it's inconvenient to some but it's the only way I can add this to my schedule. I love writing, I really do but sometimes, I have no time for it knowing I'm graduating soon. So I hope you all understand and once again,
The Snow has began to fall down as the season to be jolly has started. Kids began rushing to theri backyard creating snow angels and snowman. Hot chocolates and hot coffee shared under the fire has started to take effect. Songs old as time chanting the songs of christmas blasted the street of Seoul as everywhere you would look at it, christmas is inevitable. A giant christmas tree is being set up at the plaza as workers work overtime planning this tree for the past 4 moths before December hits. Churches are reminding people the reason why we celebrate the 25th of December, to celebrate the birth of one and only king, Jesus christ himself. But of course churches also decorate their houses making it a bright star in a city full of giant scrappers.
But among the crowd of Christmas enjoyers, One pink haired girl woke up like its a regular tuesday of the week, hair a little disheveled. Gaeul yawned while stretching up from her bed, her head turned to her side to look for Wonyoung, her bedroom partner since debut is already gone. A busy body like Wonyoung always was on the move making Gaeul shrug off her shoulder and do her usual morning routine. The cold air slipped through the small cracks of the window, brushing against her skin as if reminding her that December had truly arrived.
Gaeul rubbed her eyes, the faint sound of distant carols echoing from somewhere outside the dorm. Even half-awake, she could already feel it, the strange warmth Christmas always brought, mixed with an unexplainable heaviness that settled quietly in her chest every year around this time. She padded softly across the floor, careful not to make noise, instinctively glancing at Wonyoung’s neatly made bed. It was empty, untouched, as if it had been that way all night. Gaeul let out a small chuckle under her breath. Of course she was already gone. Some things never changed, not even during the holidays.
As she washed up, the mirror reflected a girl who looked calm on the surface but carried stories she rarely spoke about. Christmas had always been beautiful to her. The lights, music, laughter, but it also reminded her of promises once made and feelings once given too easily. Last Christmas, she thought, the phrase drifting through her mind like an old melody she never quite forgot.
She slipped into a warm sweater, one she only wore during winter, and wrapped herself tighter than necessary. Outside, Seoul was already alive, people bundled in scarves, couples holding hands, friends laughing as snow dusted their shoulders. It was the kind of scene that made love feel unavoidable, almost expected. And yet, Gaeul felt herself hesitate, heart guarded, wondering if this Christmas would be different… or if it would ask for something she wasn’t sure she could give again.
As the day slowly unfolded, she had no idea that somewhere between the glowing lights, the familiar songs, and the quiet wishes whispered beneath falling snow, something or someone was about to test her resolve. And for the first time in a long while, Gaeul silently hoped Santa might finally give her an answer she could trust.
Walking in the street observing the festive energy engulf the city, she smiled softly under her mask to hide her identity. Kids singing carols on each store, people dressed up as santa clause at malls giving kids the biggest smile of their life, Gaeuls soft hearted nature melted at the scene she was seeing. But of course when theres a good thing, there will always be a bad thing. Despite the joy of children shes seeing, Couples being all sweet made her stomach churl and almost made her barf.
She wasnt salty, No, she could never be salty of love when she already has her DIVE to give her the love she wants.
Right?
Obviously not, she's 24 and starving of love for goodness sake. She has enough wealth to ensure her future and her family's future for the foreseeable future, but rich in love? Shes deep pocket empty. While her members are sure they wont be trying to get into dating Scandals, Gaeul hoped someone would confess to her or even try to her. But nope, as an Introvert person, Gaeul prefers to be at home watching romantic dramas on netflix and reading books. Watching fictional couples fall in love effortlessly while she paused, replayed, and wondered if love was ever meant to knock on her door.
Maybe God would spawn her a virtual Boyfriend.
Who knows? I mean there are many ai chat bots all over the internet-
Gaeul sighed as she sat down on one of the wooden bench of the malls. She wasnt exhausted from walking, she was just reminding herself, another Christmas season being single again. At this point, whatever she sees on IG reels are becoming to relatable. Its scary.
“God, another year being alone huh? 0-24. I think I already beat my brothers record for being in a relationship.”
She thought to herself as she was reminded how opposite her attitude was compared to her brother. Unlike her quiet nature, her older brother was the life of the party and would make any girl tap into the KIM family name. Thats just how charismatic he was compared to her who barely can make a stable conversion with new people she meets. And as the distant sound of carols drifted through the mall, Gaeul found herself making a silent wish she pretended she didn’t care about anymore.
Santa, just tell me… is it worth falling again?
Well someone was falling alright
Cause your spaghetti legs tumble forward cause you forgot how gravity works in earth dumbass-
The slick marble floor, the stupid patch of melted snow, and your own two unreliable feet conspired against you all at once.
“Oww..fuck..”
You said while Groaning in pain holding your shin like a bi-
Dignity? Gone. Absolutely obliterated. You could already imagine yourself becoming a background character in someone else’s embarrassing Christmas story.
“Are you okay?”
And suddenly, the pain didn’t matter anymore.
Gaeuls soft voice made you look up immediately. Her softy boba eyes with worry filled with them made you malfunction a bit. Brain sparks fumming a little letting words form a little slowly.
“Ah, yeah I’m okay. Thanks for me?”
Oh your an obsolete fool. Thanks for me? What were you even saying? Why would you thank yourself tripping infront of a baddie? This was not how meet-cutes were supposed to go. You were supposed to bump into each other gently, exchange shy smiles. Not eat the floor like it personally offended you.
But Gaeul chuckled a little at your stumbling words. She find it funny how she was asking a question in her head earlier then out of nowhere,
Boom!
You appeared falling out of nowhere. Perhaps the closet of Narnia opened somewhere and malfunction and instead of Narnia- You landed in the mall of Seoul.
“I dont think you should thank yourself but your welcome?”
She spoke with a little confusion yet it had amusement in it, she then observed you attire. In her vision, you wore an attire of a delivery man delivering packages on online shopping. Considering the gear, she thought you had a motorbike.
“Are you going Somewhere?”
“Ah, yeah, I got some packages to deliver since the truck delivery is full. What can I say? Christmas rush.”
Christmas rush isn't New to your job application because every year this always happen. People would get their last pay of the year a little later than intended due to demand or work load. Its nothing new. Its what makes delivery business alive during the holidays. The longer lines, the heavier packages, the colder hands, it was exhausting, sure, but also oddly comforting. Busy meant needed. Busy meant purpose.
“Thats true, The holiday rush is something that can be a bit annoying right?”
Gaeul was trying her best to make up an conversation okay? Dont judge her for making simple remarks that sound basic. She was really trying not to make this awkward.She was really trying not to make this awkward. Her voice came out softer than she expected, careful, almost fragile. Like she was testing the waters rather than diving in.
And its kinda funny how both of you are masked hiding each others true identity yet communicating through the eyes. You rider mask covering most your face while Gaeuls face mask and bucket hat hiding her small rounded face. It felt oddly intimate, this anonymity. No names. No titles. No expectations. Just two strangers meeting in the middle of December, speaking honestly without even realizing it.
“Ah, I Better get going. Time is essential after all.”
It wasnt suppose to hurt.
No, she was used to saying goodbyes to her fans in concerts, fan meets and fan calls. So this wasn't suppose to hurt but somehow it does. A small tug in her chest, subtle but unmistakable. She didn't even spent much time with you yet she felt genuine talking to you. Your unfiltered and real, not fake like the majority of the people she has met in the industry. No cameras. No scripts. No polished smiles.
Its foolish really, she shouldnt feel this way at all yet she does. Maybe she is sick or desperate. Maybe it was just the season getting to her—Christmas had a way of reopening doors she tried so hard to keep shut. But one thing is for sure, she’ll miss this conversation.
“Oh, Okay. safe travels.”
“Yeah you too Miss.”
And just like that, the conversation is over. She watches as your Sillhoute disappear with the crowd of the mall, Quietly, Until she couldn’t tell where you ended and the rest of the world began.
The music overhead switched songs, something slow, familiar, bittersweet. Gaeul stayed seated for a moment longer than necessary, hands tucked into her sleeves, heart doing something inconvenient. She hated how easy it was to imagine what ifs. Hated how Christmas always made her believe in things she swore she’d stopped believing in.
Somewhere beyond the crowd, you adjusted your helmet, unaware that you’d just become someone’s almost, someone’s maybe. And as snow continued to fall outside, Gaeul stood up, whispering softly to no one in particular:
“Guess that answers nothing… Santa.”
She thought to herself with a sigh and stood up from her seat. She remembered what she was here at the mall, to buy gifts for her members. Its still early for christmas but her schedule would soon be tighter and she may not have anymore time to roam around the mall. First on her list, her roommate Wonyoung. Someone as expensive as her is actually simple girl. Gaeuls legs first got to her in a chocolate shop to buy her medicine, Dubai Chocolates. She doesnt even know how it started. These Dubai chocolate just exploded in the scene. Nonetheless, gaeul bought them already.
Next on the list, Yujin. She remembered Yujin being upset of losing her headphones last June and since then, shes been using wired earphones. But Gaeul knew how much those headphone mean to her since Yujin is a sentimental person. So she moved to the electronics store purchasing the same brand but different model since the model she used was already phased out by company.
Thats two gifts down and 3 more to go. She still has time so she can still find gifts appropriate for her members.
Rei with some Sanrio Plushie, Liz with some Hello Kitty teddy bear and Leeseo with a Funko pop of Spiderman. She chuckled remembering her sudden obsession of Spiderman due to the movie endgame that she watched last month.
.
.
.
Hiding her gifts on her cabinet, she secured it so that Wonyoung wouldnt have to pull out a scissor and cut open her own gift. She can never be too sure of Wonyoung because that girl is really unpredictable. One day she would read her books with her, the next shes asking her to drown in Dubai chocolate like its a hidden stash of weed. The thought alone made Gaeul shake her head with a fond smile, carefully pushing the wrapped boxes further back like they were classified secrets.
Nonetheless she was happy to purchases gifts for christmas this year. There was something quietly satisfying about choosing presents for people she loved, imagining their reactions, even if she pretended not to care too much about it.
It has been 3 days since she went to the mall and so far, her schedule isnt that tight yet so shes mostly enjoying her free time in the meantime. A rare luxury. One she wasn’t used to, but welcomed anyway. Outside, snow tapped gently against the window, the city humming softly beneath it all. Sipping in her hot chocolate and book at hand, she began re-reading chapter 13 of her book about Christmas romance tragedy.
Yeah thats right, theres no more romance anymore, just heartbreak and pain. Fiction isnt far from reality after all. She paused, eyes lingering on a single sentence for far too long, the warmth of the mug slowly fading in her hands. For a brief moment, an image flashed through her mind. Your clumsy words, a rider’s mask, kind eyes filled with concern. She frowned lightly, closing the book as if to scold herself.
It had only been a conversation. A coincidence. Nothing more.
And yet, as Christmas lights reflected softly against the glass and the song playing in the background shifted into something slow and familiar, Gaeul couldn’t help but wonder why this particular memory refused to fade. Why it felt like the beginning of a story she was too afraid to read past the first page.
“Gaeul-Unnie! Can you pick up my package today? Inkigayo called earlier today. Dont worry its already paid for.”
Leeseo spoke in a rush tone as she was ready to leave. Gaeul could only nod and hum seeing their youngest work hard and do her best as an MC for one of kpops best show. She wasnt always alone in their dorm but right now, she is. Just her books and her warm chocolate against the winter of December. She returned back to reading her book as she was halfway back when the MC of her story was gonna die to cancer and the boy could only watch and hold the hand of her love as their time together was up. Tears was about to start pouring her eyes when she heard doorbell ring.
“Must be leeseo’s package.”
She thought to herself as she stood up from the couch and open the door and to her surprise, perhaps santa was watching her all along.
“Package for Leeseo beepo? Oh. its you again. Are you leeseo Beepo?”
Your voice filled with genuine surprise as seeing her again. For a split second, you wondered if your eyes were playing tricks on you. The same quiet presence, same familiar warmth. Of all places, of all days, here she was again. Like some strange Christmas rerun you didn’t know you needed.
Gaeul was a bit stunned for a second before catching herself and shaking her head. The universe had a funny sense of humor. First the mall. Now this. Maybe Santa was listening after all.
“Oh no thats my member. But I can get that package for you.”
“Oh sure. Here ya go.”
You handed Gaeul a box that has a fragile packaging on it with Leeseo’s nickname on it. Gaeul was surprise that leeseo bought something fragile. Maybe she bought her parents some kitchen set thats ceramic which was thoughtful of her.
“Well see you around-”
You were already stepping back, instinctively giving space, ready to disappear again like last time.
“Dinner me!”
“What?” “what?”
Silence. Thick. Deafening. The kind that made the heater hum sound embarrassingly loud.
Well that came out awkward. Gaeuls mouth was faster than what her brain had anticipated The words hung between you like mist in cold air, impossible to take back now. Her eyes widened slightly above her mask, realization hitting her all at once. Why did I say that? Why like that? Why now?
You blinked once. Twice. Processing.
Somewhere in the back of her mind, Santa Tell Me played faintly. Asking questions she wasn’t ready to answer, daring her to take a risk she’d been avoiding for years. Her heart pounded not from fear, but from the terrifying possibility that this moment might actually mean something.
And for the first time in a long while, Gaeul didn’t immediately regret speaking her heart out loud.
“I mean. If your free…do you wanna get some coffee? Its fine if you dont-”
“Thats actually my last package of the day. So sure, why not?”
Gaeul couldnt believe it. Was Santa actually gifting her what she dreamed off? No, there must be a catch. For every good action comes something bad right? What if your actually a stalker and shes playing right into your trap? Now shes on the edge. What if shes just being a fool? What if is shes just-
“I'll just remove this..”
You said taking off your rider mask finally revealing your face at her. You stood at around 5 foot 8 inches tall but with shoes you look more taller and leaner. Your face was average oval shaped with a bright smile and slightly sharp jaw. You were clean shaven since you never like having a beard or a mustache. Hairstyle groomed in a messy fringe haircut that only highlighted your features.
Gaeul went inside to change so fast, you swear you just blinked and her attire is already different. Like she was afraid if she waited any longer, courage might slip through her fingers. The door clicked shut, then opened again almost immediately.
“Lets go. Oh yeah, Im Gaeul Kim by the way. You are?”
“Y/N Roh. Nice to meet you.”
You both shook hands and Gaeul never felt so small. I mean yes, shes the smallest in her group due to her height but when her hands met with yours, it only made it smaller as it how engulf it completely. Of course this isnt her first time holding a guys hand but this felt intimate seeing the small space they have. But she felt safe in your grip.
You on the other hand didnt expect her hand to be this soft. The contrast caught you off guard. You felt embarrassed knowing your hand is rough from work. Calloused, worn down by boxes and handlebars yet she didn’t flinch. Didn’t pull away. Didn’t seem to mind at all.
Outside, Christmas lights glowed brighter, the air colder but somehow warmer between the two of you. Maybe there was a catch. Maybe there wasn’t. But standing there, hand in hand, neither of you wanted to be the first to let go.
And for once, Gaeul decided to stop questioning the miracle,just for tonight.
You two walked side by side, snow falling slowly as the trails to the cafe seems to get shorter as you two interacted. The city felt quieter here, footsteps muffled by fresh snow, streetlights casting a warm glow that followed you like a gentle escort. It was the kind of walk that made time feel slower in a good way.
You didnt want to push too much and scare her so you mostly answer and ask question in a neutral answer. Short responses, careful pauses, eyes checking her reactions instead of rushing ahead. Gaeul knows that your trying not to scare too much and it makes her heart flutter how sweet you are by making sure she isnt uncomfortable having a conversation she didnt wanna talk about. The consideration alone was enough to make her chest feel light.
“You know, I maybe a Kpop idol but I too have my own opinions on things, You dont have to be wary with me.”
She said it gently, not as a challenge, but as reassurance.
“Oh, No im just respecting your boundaries since I dont want to step into something I didnt mean to step into.”
Your voice was calm, sincere. No hidden meaning. No ulterior motive. Just honesty.
Gaeul has formed a smile that she tried to contain but failed. It curved upward naturally, unguarded. Every checklist was getting past her when it comes to you. One by one, without her even realizing it. Not only that but she noticed how shy you actually is. The way you scratched the back of your neck, how your gaze drifted away when she looked at you too long. Your soft chuckles and soft spoken words made her feel like your treating her so fragile and precious and it soften her heart a lot.
“Thank you for that. Not much Guys would think like that, most of them would like show off but your different. Your honest, and very careful with your words. I guess thats a plus point.”
“Plus point? For what?”
Genuine confusion crossed your face, brows knitting slightly as if the idea of being evaluated never even crossed your mind.
Gaeul giggled.
Like she actually giggled about you.
And when you make her giggle like that, it means your doing something right that makes her comfortable with you. Comfortable enough to forget herself for a moment. Comfortable enough to enjoy this without overthinking the ending.
“Secreeeet~”
You could only laugh at her answers the atmosphere between you two has warmed up. The cold didn’t feel so biting anymore. The walk didn’t feel so long. And somewhere between shared laughter and falling snow, something gentle was quietly unfolding, something neither of you were brave enough to name just yet.
Arriving at the cafe, the cozy warmth of the area only enhances it. he bell above the door chimed softly as you stepped inside, the scent of coffee and baked pastries wrapping around you both instantly. Soft jazz mixed with faint Christmas carols played in the background, and the windows fogged gently from the cold outside. This was one of Gaeuls favorite cafe go to places since they have her favorite drink. A small comfort she rarely shared with anyone. To her surprise, you offered to pay for the drinks and Gaeul wanted to protest. So it turned into a playful match.
“No, I'll pay for it. Its on me.”
‘No no no. I was the one who asked you come so I should be the one paying.”
There was no intensity in the back and forth playful banter you two had, in fact it was actually pretty comical how comfortable you two look naturally. Even the barista glanced up with a knowing smile. Its like everything just clicked with you two as if the universe want you two to be inseperable—
“Y/N? Is that you?”
A third voice snapped the sphere of comfortability with Gaeul as you looked up and there you saw a girl you were familiar with. Holding tightly to her strap bag and looking at you intently. Minhee bit her lip seeing you with Gaeul and she couldt handle what she was seeing and she steeped in and Hug you out of nowhere dramatically acting as if you were resurrected from the dead as Gaeul didnt know what to do.
Gaeul froze. Her hands hovered awkwardly at her sides, heart dropping just a little too fast. The warmth she felt moments ago suddenly felt fragile, like glass on a cold day. She told herself not to assume anything but assumptions had a way of sneaking in when emotions were already involved.
Minhee’s grip was tight. Too tight. Familiar in a way that spoke of history, not coincidence.
And just like that, the Christmas song playing overhead shifted into something slower, sadder. Gaeul swallowed, reminding herself of the warning she gave her heart not even an hour ago. For every good thing…
“Minhee what are you doing?”
“I love you. Why are you doing this to me-”
You didnt let her finish because your eyes already saw Gaeul rush out of her cafe and the only thing that matter to you right now is seeing Gaeul and Gaeul only. Everything else blurred into noise. The music, the chatter, Minhee’s trembling voice. Your chest tightened in a way that surprised even you.
The snow seems to have gotten harsher unlike earlier and Gaeuls smaller frame seems to have disappear like magic. One second she was there, the next swallowed by white and crowds and distance. Panic crept in fast, sharp and unforgiving.
But that didnt or shouldnt stop you.
You pushed past the door, cold air slamming into you as the bell rang again, too loud, too late. Snow stung your face as you scanned the street, heart pounding harder with every second that passed.
Gaeul was just a simple girl yet she gave meaning to your perspective in life in that brief moment. She didn’t know it, but she had cracked something open inside you, something you thought was long buried under routine and responsibility. Call it corny but you fell in love at first sight with her at the mall. Not the dramatic kind. Not fireworks. Just certainty.
Behind you, Minhee stood frozen, realization finally settling in. This wasn’t about jealousy. This wasn’t about losing you to someone else. This was about losing you because you had already chosen, without even knowing it.
.
.
.
Gaeul hugged herself entering the mall alone. The song blasted the song “last christmas by wham” and it felt like the Universe is testing Gaeuls patience. The lyrics echoed too loudly, every word cutting just a little deeper than it should. She scoffed at that thought.
“You sure know how to hate someone universe”
She thought to herself and as if the Universe was listening to her rant, decided to show it to her face the loving couples all over the mall. Hands intertwined. Foreheads touching. Soft laughter shared like secrets. Her face turned bitter and sour seeing the love they show to each other while she stands there alone boiling her own feelings into nothing.
Why? Why did she have to feel this way? Why was love so complicated?
In fiction and on all the books she reads, they were all so easy and had a formula, was it because she was too fast?
To Hopeful?
To optimistic?
Or perhaps love wasnt really fitted for her.
Maybe she wasnt reading the book of her story, there wasnt a story for her. Her book has longed gone closed and shes just an NPC in a world full of love story. A background character meant to cheer for others while never getting her own chapter. She then regretted falling in love. Regretted even giving herself a hope that this year will be different.
If only she hadnt fallen for her own hope, none of this would have happen.
But some one did fall alright.
THUD
“Owww. stupid snow boots! Gaeul!!”
Her heart skipped violently.
No,
It was impossible.
Shes hearing things.
THUD
“Argh! My ankle! Gaeul!!”
Her breath caught in her throat.
No
Shes hearing nonsense right?
This is Wonyoungs dubai chocolate after effects.
THUD
“Gaeul!”
She turned.
Time froze.
There you were, kneeling awkwardly on the slick floor just inside the mall entrance, one hand gripping your ankle, the other bracing yourself against the ground. Snow clung to your coat, your breath uneven, hair damp from the cold. You looked ridiculous. Hurt. Breathless.
Real.
Your eyes found hers instantly, relief crashing over your features like you’d finally reached shore after drowning.
“Found you,”
You breathed out, half-laughing despite the pain.
Gaeul’s lips parted but no sound came out. Her heart pounded so hard she thought it might give her away. Of all the places. Of all the moments. Of all the stupid, painful, embarrassing ways
this was how the universe answered her.
The song continued playing overhead.
Last Christmas, I gave you my heart…
And for the first time, Gaeul wondered if this time,
the universe wasn’t mocking her at all.
“Y/N, are you okay?”
She asked with worry in her voice as you just stood up limping a bit. Her hand hold unto yours like its the most natural thing to do. Neither of you questioned it. Neither of you pulled away. You chuckled seeing the height difference between you two but Gaeul wasnt laughing at all.
“Dont laugh. You have some explanation to do mister.”
You nodded at her and explained to her that Minhee was your Ex-Girlfriend a year back. You admitted that back then, you were a lovestruck fool for her appearance and didn't realize her toxic behavior. The words came out slow, careful, not excuses, just truth. She was a war freak and would make every single non arguable thing into a fight. Your relationship with her only lasted one month cause you were sick of her ass. You blocked every number she tried and even blocked out her friends number as well as they support her toxic trait. No dramatics. No longing. Just closure you’d already made peace with.
Hearing this, Gaeul was stunned that a character in her fictional books actually is a reality. She looked at you, like really looked at you and said
“So why did you chase after me?”
Her voice trembled just slightly. Not from fear, but from hope she didn’t want to admit she was holding.
You didn’t answer immediately. You adjusted your stance, pain flaring briefly in your ankle, but you stayed put. Because running away now would hurt more than any fall ever could.
“Isnt it obvious? I want you.”
The words landed softly. No grand confession. No poetic speech. Just honesty, bare and unguarded.
Gaeul’s breath hitched. Her grip on your hand tightened unconsciously, thumb brushing against your knuckles as if to confirm you were real. The mall noise faded into the background again, replaced by the sound of her own heartbeat pounding in her ears.
“For once,” she whispered, eyes glistening but steady,
“I just want to know… you’re not going to regret this, right?”
“Why would I regret something I enjoy being with?”
Words didnt explain what happened next because out of character, Gaeul Lunges herself at you like your her lifeline. It was instinctive, reckless, raw. Like if she didn’t do it now, she might lose the courage forever. Thank god for you fast reflexes or you would have felt the spear of roman reigns if you didnt catch Gaeul in your arms. Instead, you stumbled back slightly, arms wrapping around her without thinking, holding her tight like you’d been waiting for this moment all along.
Both of you laid on the mall floor giggling and laughinfg as the mall began playing ‘“Santa cant you hear me by Ariana Grande”
It was ridiculous. Public. Completely inappropriate.
And perfect.
People glanced over, some chuckling, some shaking their heads, but neither of you cared. Gaeul’s laughter was bright, unrestrained, the kind that came from deep relief rather than humor. She buried her face into your chest, heart racing, finally allowing herself to feel happy without immediately bracing for the fall.
“Wow,”
She muttered between laughs, muffled against your jacket.
“So this is how my love story starts. On the floor.”
You laughed softly, one hand instinctively moving to steady her, thumb brushing reassuring circles against her back.
“Hey,”
You said, breath warm in the cold air,
“better than never starting at all, right?”
She lifted her head just enough to look at you, eyes shining, not with doubt this time, but with something gentler. Something hopeful.
For the first time that Christmas, the song didn’t hurt.
For the first time, Santa actually answered.
And as snow continued to fall outside, Gaeul finally realized,
Maybe love wasn’t complicated.
Maybe she just needed someone willing to fall with her.
.
.
.
The Mini christmas party at IVEs dorm was chaotic as usual as the room was full of energy because Wonyoungs drugs-her dubai Chocolate was shared with the rest and Yujin’s energy was off the roof, literally. She threw out a company guitar out of their dorm from pure joy. You pray to god it doesnt hit anyone or it will be a huge lawsuit. The staff would absolutely lose their minds if they found out. But right now, none of that mattered.
Karaoke was full out singing from Liz and Leeseo. Off-key, loud, passionate. Rei and Yujin playing charades that of course ended in chaos as usual. Accusations, yelling, dramatic acting, classic IVE energy. Gaeul watched everything with a fond smile, occasionally glancing your way as if checking if you were really there.
When the chaos died down a little, the exchange gift has arrived and each member exchanged gift. Wrapping paper littered the floor, ribbons tangled around feet, laughter echoing through the dorm like it always did on nights like this.
To your surprise, her members gave you their own gifts too. It wasn’t expected. It wasn’t necessary. But it meant everything. Yujin gifted you pair of Nike socks, proudly claiming they were “practical boyfriend material.” Rei gifted you a perfume set from her brand, saying it “matched your vibe.” Wonyoung handed you a Labubu, insisting it was cute and therefore essential. Liz handed you a cap from the Dodgers, and Lesseo gifted you a small sling bag she said would be “useful for dates.” You were thankful for the gifts they had given you but for Gaeul?
Your girlfriend has a better gift.
When you went to her and asked for your gift, she just giggled and put a mistletoe ontop of the two of you. The room immediately erupted in teasing noises and whistles.
“You know what to do when were under a mistletoe right Y/N?”
“Fight?”
“No you idiot. We kiss.”
“Oh”
“What do you mean Oh?”
Her members laughed at your words as Gaeul Pouts cutely, arms crossing as she pretended to be offended. You laughed before cupping her cheeks softly and bringing your lips kiss hers claiming her once again. The kiss was gentle, warm, unhurried, full of everything you didn’t need to say out loud.
“Merry christmas my love.”
“Merry christmas my pretty Gaeul”
Outside, snow continued to fall over Seoul.
Inside, Gaeul finally had her answer.
I know I said that I would upload more frequently and I promise you I did think of that at the start of January. It was supposed to be one of my New Year's resolutions this year but. When I had to Enroll for this semester, I realized I had only a few left units to tackle before I leave this damn University. So it was there that I decided to Lock the fq in for this semester.
I do apologise that I couldn't update you guys about this due to 2 reason:
1. Like I said. I was so focused for this semester.
2. I forgot my Google account that I use in Tumblr.
The number 2 reason is not an exaggeration, I really forgot my account. In hindsight, while I was thinking about this, I decided to come up with a solution where I can still upload while also focusing at Uni. And that's by One upload per month.
Yes it's inconvenient to some but it's the only way I can add this to my schedule. I love writing, I really do but sometimes, I have no time for it knowing I'm graduating soon. So I hope you all understand and once again,
What are your thoughts about hybe not focusing or giving many comeback on fromis_9 despite they are in the charts, they are so talented and beautiful, i really don't know why hybe doesn't care about them. I hope we get more comebacks from the girls i really miss them
It's a Shitty company. And let's be honest here, Fromis_9 is the best well rounded Kpop girl group HYBE has yet they don't utilize it. No disrespect to other Girl group under HYBE but fromis_9 has proven time and time again that they are the WELL ROUNDED KPOP GIRL GROUP under HYBE. Hopefully the new CEO of Pledis take care of them.
Is there any plan of you publishing a fromis_9 one shot or book (in wattpad)??? Because i love your fromis_9 Oneshot i hope you make a book, and the love interest will be jiheon, nakyoung, hayoung or seoyeon. Keep up the great work lovelots!!!!
Awee man that's a nice idea. Once I'm possible done with my Rei book which you guys should read (Shameless promotion lol) I might right a Fromis_9 book. But for now, I think One shot Fromis sounds good 😁
Hii!! Sorry for the cold DM but it would be great if u can check out my recent aespa series! Your oneshots genuinely was so good and pretty much influenced me to write the series. It will be great if u can spare some time to check it out.
The larger arm was circling the golden numerals surrounding your watch, and the clock was ticking along as usual. Since you have been waiting for this your entire life, today was meant to be special for you. You got ready for this day by getting up earlier than normal and wearing your best outfit. It has all come down to this after endless days of speech practice and preparation about what to display your crush..
You brought her favorite flowers from a nearby flower shop and messaged her to meet in the Bay Area, where you first met. That girl has helped you through your entire life of anguish and pain. She was the sunshine you treasured, and you wanted nothing more than for her to be pure and untouched by civilization. It began with a simple act of assisting her in catching her dog, progressed to becoming friends, and then to falling in love.
Perhaps it was destiny as many would call it, that you met in the first place. Arriving at the place where it all began you patiently waited.
Waited.
And waited.
And waited.
But nobody came through.
The sun was finally setting, and the blue sky had become orange, resembling what many scientists refer to as the golden hour. Even though the meeting time was early, you still had optimism before the clock struck 6 p.m. You sat there on the edge of the sea, watching the small ships sail by and the music the sea was making. Every splash it made put you at rest, and then you heard the voice of the person you'd been waiting for. Your face lit up as you jumped down the wall and saw the girl.
With another man.
You'd never forget that laugh, which threw your mind off track. Her grin was worth a thousand gold. It was supposed to be you in that position, but it wasn't. The man she was with was making jokes and making her laugh, and it was clear that the two of them loved each other. You watch with a heavy heart as they go past you despite the fact that they are only a few feet away.
You could feel your heart breaking piece by piece as the girl you love was taken away by another man. Realizations began to surface in your mind as a sour chuckle came out of your mouth.
"I'm so stupid huh?"
You thought to yourself. Perhaps a little backtracking was required. She never really exhibited interest in you, did she? Sure, you were interested in her, but did she make an effort to pique your interest? Perhaps it was your imagination that led you to believe she was interested when, in fact, she was simply being a nice friend.
You groaned and stared at the boque you purchased. Every flower that was present there represented something. The roses, tulips, and sunflowers were a nice combination, but they now have no meaning. Walking away is the best thing to do right now, and a little drink won't hurt, right?
However, after a few steps forward, you came to a halt when you heard someone cry. Your gaze travelled in all directions before settling on a girl with her hands over her face, crying. much if you are already upset, witnessing someone else weep makes you feel much worse for them. Your fist clenched as you felt a firm thing in your hand. You had a bouquet of flowers ready to be thrown away right now, but doing so would be a horrible decision. You took a big breath and started your way to the girl.
"Umm... Excuse me?"
You called out of the girl. You weren't really sure if this was the best time to be nosy but you have to give the flowers to someone else instead of throwing them. The girl looked up and saw how puffy her eyes looked.
"She must have been crying for a while now.."
You thought to yourself as you shook that thought off and handed her your bouquet of flowers.
"I know this looks weird but I think you deserve these flowers more than I need them."
This was your best explanation to her, and to be honest, it was bizarre. Who in their right mind would give a stranger a bouquet of flowers and simply accept them? You were well aware of the repercussions of your actions, but the girl totally removed her hand, revealing her face. It was horrible to see how devastated she appeared, and you may recognize yourself in her because your heart had also been destroyed.
Haewon just stared at the bouquet of flowers and for some reason, she was captivated by the patter of the flowers that were in there.
"I know... It's weird for a stranger to give someone I don't know flowers but I hope this would make it less painful?"
Haewon looked up to see your face. She was able to recognize faces from her fans and individuals she had briefly met, but seeing your face was her first time meeting you, and the agony she was bearing was quickly alleviated by your simple offer.
Without thinking, Haewon softly accepted the flowers, her eyes ogling them. The perfume was soothing her down, and she could feel a little grin on her lips. You, on the other hand, grinned slightly, knowing that your actions had made someone happy. Perhaps this day served as a lesson for you rather than a heartache. Kindness, after all, was a pleasant sensation.
"T-Thank you.."
Haewon weakly said as you could only nod your head.
"It's alright. Ummm, I'll be going first then. Goodbye."
Your job was done and there was no more reason for you to talk to the girl. She needed time for herself and what you did was the start of her to calm down and pick herself up.
"Wait!"
She stopped you on your tracks as you looked behind you to see the girl clinging to the flowers close to her.
"What's your name?"
Strangely enough, you felt like saying your name wouldn't be harmful. But considering that you're the one who gave her the flowers, it was only right for her to know your name.
"Y/n Park."
She nodded her head and bowed at a particular angle surprising you.
"Thank you Mr. Park. I will remember your kindness."
Feeling flustered, you shook off her actions and said
"N-No need to bow that much Miss."
Haewon straightened herself up and smiled at you. Her grin actually caught your attention. It was ridiculous of you to compare someone, but Haewon's smile reminded you of someone you used to know or was familiar with. Perhaps you've seen that smile before but can't pinpoint where it is.
"Ah, I almost forgot, I'm Oh Haewon by the way. Nice to meet you."
"Like wise.. Umm.. See you around Ms. Haewon."
You wanted to leave right now since you hadn't expected to feel so bewildered meeting someone for the first time. Your brain told you she was someone you knew, but she wasn't someone to you. It confused you so much that it eclipsed your sadness.
Haewon, on the other hand, was smiling broadly as she began to walk back to the JYP office, the bouquet in her hand. People around the building were surprised to find Haewon smiling with flowers in her hand, despite the fact that she had been sorrowful earlier. Your kindness had left a mark on her thoughts, and her members were eager to see her grin.
"Unnie-eh? Where did you get that?"
Kyujin canceled her hug to their leader as everyone's interest reached a height. They were worried about her since she had been quite dull or tired for the past few days. Even though they attempted to make her laugh and smile, they knew it wasn't enough, and when she went AFK for the past several hours, they became concerned.
"Oh? A guy gave it to me."
Her statement made everyone widen their eyes as they all looked surprised and shocked.
Who was the person that gave their leader a smile that was genuine that they couldn't bring out?
"Another day, another boring working day..."
You sighed and prepared for your job. You were an officer worker, and despite the monotonous nature of the job, it allowed you to pay your rent and eat. You left your apartment and followed the regular path you normally take to the bus station to wait for the bus. Your gaze was drawn to your phone, and despite the fact that it was empty of text notifications from anyone, you were staring at the most recent message you had sent her.
You sighed and closed your phone. The bridge that was built around that friendship you had with her was diminished. Repairing it was impossible as your mind was occupied with the moments you two shared. Even though it was one sided, it was still painful for you.
Arriving at your work office was pretty much the same. Sitting down, opening your computer, checking the files, and printing papers. It was your typical office scenery as you placed your bag below your table. Seeing that you have arrived, a friend of yours peaked over at your table.
"So how did it go? ~"
Your friend Yeonjun smiled happily hoping for good news but you just sighed and shook your head. This surprised him as he was sure that you had this in the bag.
"Eh? Why? I thought last week was the day?"
"Maybe I was just pondering things. It was a one sided love after all."
Yeonjun gasped at you. He was for sure thinking that she was the one for you yet it wasn't. Maybe his gut instinct was right.
"Remember when I told you that something isn't right with the relationship you had with her?"
"Yeah?"
"looks like I was right."
He laughed at you and you could only sigh as what Yeonjun said was right. You were merely blinded by all this stuff she did that you had thought that she likes you. Thinking back on it now, you cringed remembering the things you did for her.
"Well it's in the past now. Let's forget about it and move on"
That was your motto in life. That kind of saying has led you into this situation. You weren't complaining, of course, since you believe that nothing in the past is that important, and you should move on with your life. Everything has a purpose for you, thus there was probably a reason you met her.
That's why your heart split into a thousand pieces.
Sure, the occasion may be lost and become a hazy memory, but the emotions will not. The sensation of heartbreak will return time and again. It may not be exactly what you expected, but it will undoubtedly appear in some form. One example would be when you were watching a film. That movie you were viewing coincided with the period you watched movies with her. It was in that film that you fell for her, and it brought back memories of the sorrow.
"I guess you're right. But anyway-"
"Y/n, Chief is asking for you."
A workmate of yours came near your workplace as you just nodded your head at her. Yeonjun looked at you confused.
"Why is the chief asking for you? Did you do something?"
You shrugged your shoulders, unsure. You never failed any previous reports because you always submitted them on time, and sometimes even sooner. The chief was not a scary person, but he was very severe with his employees. To avoid upsetting him, you left your office and walked to the chief's office, knocking before entering his chamber. His workplace table was tidy and well-organized, unlike the majority of the company's employees.
"Ah, Y/n, take a seat."
You sat across from him as he took out a folder and handed it to you. You took it and opened it, and the first thing you noticed was the name of the corporation labeled on it. Your eyes widen as you look at the chief in surprise, as he simply grinned and chuckled..
"Sir, why is JYP Entertainment on this file sir?"
"Well you see Y/n, we're sharing our investment to one of its kpop group and I want you to write about the progress of our investment on them especially since their comeback is approaching. I want a full detailed report done after their comeback is done. Got it?"
Not wanting to disappoint your chief, you accepted it and thanked him for the opportunity. Leaving out of his office, you smiled happily that the chief has trusted you on such an important task at hand. Yeonjun saw your smile and couldn't help but feel intrigued.
"What's the big smile for? You're getting promoted?"
"Nope, well, hopefully if I do well on this task, I could get promoted."
Yeonjun clapped his hand in amusement and support of you. Not wanting to waste any time, you immediately started to work on your computer, researching JYP Entertainment and learning about the stocks of the firms that had invested in it. Your eyes immediately spotted the spikes and falls of each company's inventions on the groups under the label, and you made sure to record them for future reference in your report.
"Perhaps I should visit JYP entertainment tomorrow."
Your regular work hour consisted of producing reports and researching information. But after the clock struck 7 p.m., it was time to go home. Packing your belongings and exiting the building, you proceeded down the familiar night street. You noticed a billboard showcasing JYP idols, including ITZY, Twice, and Straykids, but one group was unfamiliar to you. But for some strange reason, one idol looked familiar to you. You shrugged your shoulder and started walking, thinking that you'd remember her when the time came.
The next morning arrived faster than you imagined because you were dressed for work. You left your apartment and were set to go to JYP Entertainment. Your chief has already informed the company of your arrival, as you ensured that all of your belongings were in your suitcase. Grabbing a cab, you informed the driver of your destination while watching the scenery unfold as the taxi passed by buildings and establishments. The ride was brief, as you paid for your taxi and exited the vehicle. You instantly noticed the tall structure in front of you since you didn't anticipate it to be so large.
"Considering that JYP Ent. Is a huge name, I can't expect less from them now can I?"
You were ready to enter the building when you noticed a girl in distress, looking for something on the ground. When you saw her struggle, you sighed and checked your watch. Ten minutes before the company's board meeting. Perhaps you can afford a minute or two, right?
"Miss? Is everything alright?"
You asked as the girl looked at your direction but her vision was blurry as she can't properly see you. In desperate help, she nodded her head.
"Y-Yes, have you seen some glasses nearby? I-I can't properly see without them."
You decided to aid her after hearing her gentle voice and despair, and there was a pair of glasses on the floor not far from where you two were. You went to fetch it, brushed a few dust particles from the glass, and handed it to her.
"Here you go miss. I believe this are yours?"
You handed the girl her glasses, which she quickly placed on her eyes. She smiled cheerfully and bowed at you. You simply brush off her thoughtfulness as you realize how her beautiful eyes drew your attention. She was wearing a mask, so you couldn't see her face, but her eyes revealed that she's a very pretty girl.
"Thank you Mister for helping me."
"Ah No it's fine. I'm just trying to help, I guess."
"Umm.. P-Perhaps your also entering the building mister?"
"Huh? Oh yeah I am."
The girl beamed with happiness as she smiled underneath her mask. Although you can't clearly see it, her eyes show that she was smiling underneath her white mask.
"I-I can help you tour around. Where are you going by the way Mister?"
"Ah, the board member room? Where meetings happen?"
You tried your best to describe the place you were heading to as the girl immediately know where that place was.
"Ah, I know where that is Mister. Follow me."
The girl walked ahead as you followed her from behind. Entering the building, you were immediately amazed by the interior design as you were at awe. The girl chuckled softly seeing your reaction.
"Woah, this place is... Amazing."
"Hehe, well that's JYP for you."
The two of you entered the elevator and to your surprise, many people suddenly stormed leaving absolutely no space for you or the girl. Not wanting to let her get squished, you used your body to cover her from the crowd but the position for it was awkward to say the least. You were literally balancing yourself with just your feet and arms leaving the girl blushing and her heart pounding so fast. Perhaps it was because of her introverted nature that she immediately picked up what you were trying to do as she couldn't help but feel her heart race.
As the elevator stopped, the crowd got smaller and smaller until it was just you and her.
"You alright?"
"Huh? Oh, yeah. Thank you again for protecting me, Mister."
"Ah, it's nothing. Just uhh.. Trying to help?"
The girl chuckled at your poor attempt to joke but somehow it worked on her. Realizing that it was just you two in the elevator, you decided to ask for her name.
"Ah, by the way I'm Y/n Park. And you are?"
The girl hesitated at first but she ended up saying her name anyway.
"Seol Yoon-ah. Yoona for short Mister."
As the elevator door opened, you nodded in response to hearing her name. Lily told you that this was his floor, and hers was still much higher. You got off the elevator and thanked her again for her assistance, while Lily simply waved it off and waved you farewell as the elevator door closed. Walking along the strange hallway, your mind was still preoccupied with meeting Lily, and you were relieved that you had already made a friend in the building, as the conference room was within sight. You knocked before entering the room.
Sullyoon on the other hand finally arrived at their practice room as all her members were there ready to start their practice session for the day. Haewon, their Leader, saw Sullyoon entering as she greeted her as she greeted her back.
"Morning Sully, you sure took your time."
"Ah well I kinda tripped on the way and my glasses fell of my face so I couldn't see."
Hearing what Sullyoon said made everyone worry for her as they surrounded her. Sullyoon just smiled and chuckled at her members. Before she would be overwhelmed by this much attention but being together for such a long time now made her already aware of their behaviors.
"That must have been terrible. Anyway, did you get it back?"
Bae asked as Jiwoo gave her a stare of disbelief and confusion as her question already had an answer.
"Unnie, she's literally wearing her glasses now."
Jiwoo's comment made everyone laugh as Sullyoon chuckled.
"Well a sweet guy helped me in finding my glasses and also protected me earlier on the elevator."
Sullyoon smiled and blushed remembering your actions as this reaction got her members thrilled and curious on who made Sullyoon blush.
"Spill the tea girl."
Lily said making everyone agree to their oldest as Sullyoon spoke the name that Haewon was familiar with.
"Y/n Park. I think he's a new employee here."
The girls squealed except Haewon who had her eyes widened in surprise and in shock. Kyujin seeing their Leader frozen got her curious.
"Why the long face Unnie?"
Kyujin's question snapped Haewon out of her trance as she sighed and reminded her members of the bouquet of flowers in their dorm.
"Remember those flowers that I'm taking care of right now?"
They all nodded their heads as Haewon smiled brightly captivating her members.
"He's the same person. I'm sure of it."
Now it was everyone's turn to act surprised by their leader's claim. Haewon on the other hand was smiling brightly as she can finally meet the person that brought a smile on her face.
"I know love at first sight is stupid but....I am stupidly in love after all"
.
.
.
The meeting ended after you were presented with a variety of scenarios in which stocks could rise or fall. Overall, your focus was on the group NMIXX, and according to the projections, they have a good possibility of attracting other companies to invest in them, given the tendency of their fame rising with each comeback. That being said, NMIXX is still a long way from the success of the other groups in the organization, but in your opinion, this was a solid step.
Exiting the meeting room, you decided to head to the building's cafeteria to fill in your soft growling stomach. You placed a hand on your stomach as you chuckled.
"I wonder how I survived that meeting without my stomach growling like a lion"
But the happiness on your face faded when you realized your previous guide, Sullyoon, was no longer with you. You sighed and placed your hand on your brow, knowing that you had to explore this vast and expansive edifice on your own. You retraced your steps in order to find the elevator; however, your initial thought was to ask the receptionist on the ground floor. However, it appears that your desire was so intense that you became disoriented and strayed into new area.
"I don't think I went pass this one earlier...shit"
You attempted again to recollect your previous steps, but your brain digested food instead. Frustrated that your brain wasn't cooperating with you, you decided to look for a snack bar machine nearby and eat that for lunch. However, it appears like locating a snack bar is like finding the lost city of Atlantis: seemingly impossible. By this point, your hunger had sapped the vitality from your legs, which were about to give way. You stumbled on the floor because your stomach was causing you pain because it was so empty.
"Damn it. Why is this building so huge anyway!"
You cursed the engineer and architect of this structure on your head, causing their following generation to suffer tremendously. With a sigh, you sat on the floor, leaning against the wall. You wanted to rest your legs a little because the continual walking earlier made them tired, and hunger played a vital role in making you stumble on the floor..
But, unbeknownst to you, Haewon was passing by and quickly noticed you. She gasped, not expecting to find you in such a state, as she approached you. Your ears perked up as the heavy footstep became louder by the second. Turning your head in the direction of the stomps, you saw a girl dash towards you like a savage bear, instilling panic within you. Haewon paused her pace as she kneeled in front of you, holding your cheeks and scrutinizing your face.
"Are you hurt? Are you okay? Do you want to kiss me? Or are you perhaps injured? Ah! Do you want me to take care of you?"
Everything was moving so fast that your brain couldn't process what was happening. But your eyes did saw Haewons face and there you immediately recognized her.
"H-Haewon? I mean, Miss Haewon."
Haewon gasped as she covered her mouth in amazement and in shock. Her cheeks was visibly turning red and her eye pupils wanted to turn into a heart shaped when you said her name. Haewon was glad that you still remembered her and that she couldn't help but feel emotional.
"Y-You remember me..."
"Yeah of course I would. It wasn't that long anyw-huh? Are you crying?"
Haewon suddenly felt so happy that her eyes began to produce tears of joy. You were confused on why would Haewon suddenly start getting teared up. You immediately tried to comfort her by taking out your handkerchief as you offered it to Haewon.
"He's even offering me his handkerchief... I fucking love him!"
Haewon tumbled into your arms, both of you on the ground, and Haewon hugged you fiercely, inhaling your smell. You were bewildered and baffled as to why Haewon ran toward you, clutching you fiercely.
"D-Did I do a mistake on giving her those flowers? Hah! We're those flowers poisonous and now she's seeking revenge?!"
Both of you were clearly a dumbass but perfect fit for each other but didn't realize it yet. You stood back up with Haewon holding you tight as you apologized to her.
"I'm sorry Haewon. I.. I didn't mean to bring harm to you with those flowers.."
Haewon chuckled and smiled at you. Her eyes looked so warm and showed signs of love. But you were captivated by her smile as her vision of you was glowing.
"Dummy~ Why are you apologizing? I still have those flowers you know."
"S-So this isn't an act of assault?"
Haewon but her lips not wanting to laugh but her body betrayed her as she began laughing her ass off. You were visibly confused seeing her act from being sad to suddenly laughing like a lunatic. You feared that Haewon was a crazy girl.
"Your Funny Y/n. Ah, wait hold on, let me help you up."
You and Haewon both stood up, and the timing couldn't have been worse. Your stomach growled the loudest, and if you thought embarrassment was bad enough, consider the physical discomfort of an empty stomach. Haewon was quick to react, pulling out a chocolate bar from her pocket and cheerfully giving it to you..
"Here you go Y/n. You might need it more."
"A-Ah, thanks Haewon. I'll repay you back somehow."
Haewon just giggled as you munched on the chocolate bar like it was no tomorrow. Without even a minute passing by, the chocolate bar was already gone. And Haewon smiled at you.
"Looks like someone's hungry."
"So-Sorry."
Haewon shook her head as she pointed at the nearby elevator. Nearby elevator. nearby. Elevator.
Oh how stupidly blind are you for not being able to see that an Elevator was just near where you are. A look of disappointment and relief was evident on your face as this got Haewon intrigued.
"Is something wrong Y/n?"
"Ah, no, it's just that I was looking for an elevator singe earlier and I just believe that it was right in front of me"
Haewon laughed at your sweet error as you and Haewon entered the elevator and began talking. She informed you that the flowers you gave her on that day were still alive and in her dorm, which you were delighted to hear. Haewon then began to question why you were at the building after you informed her that you would be supervising your company's financial development on the group NMIXX. Haewon smiled from ear to ear when she heard her group come out of your mouth..
"NMIXX has a bright future ahead of them in the industry seeing how amazing their growth is amazing."
"Well what can I say? They are pretty and talented."
"Is that so? I haven't really looked up the members actually."
Haewon was saddened by this, but an idea occurred to her: she wanted you to be astonished when you met NMIXX, her group. As the elevator doors opened, signifying that they had arrived at their destination floor, you and Haewon exited. The walk to the building cafeteria was short, and when you got, you were shocked by how large it was.
"Woah, this place sure is big.."
"Yup, come on, let's get our food."
Haewon bravely grabbed your hand and brought you to the food department. Her unexpected physical touch caught you off guard, and a blush spread across your cheeks. You've never touched a girl's hand like this before, and it's made you feel something.
Haewon delivered you your food tray and gave you helpful advise on what to eat. Honestly, Haewon persuaded you to take the greatest cuisine available as the two of you seated at a table. Haewon smiled as she watched you, her hands supporting her face.
"Say Haewon, how come you're familiar with this place?"
"Hmm? Cause I work here."
"Oh? What department are you from?"
Haewon raises her eyebrows at your question as she found it confusing. Her brain couldn't understand what your words meant as you noticed her facial expression showing confusion. You couldn't help but chuckle at her.
"What I meant is that, what part of the company do you work for? A manager? An assistant manager? An employee or an intern?"
Haewon finally understood what you said as she shook her head.
"I'm an.... Uhh... "
Haewon didn't want to admit too soon to you as she wanted it to be a surprise to you. So her brain decided to look on for a possible work for her in the company. Of course she can't be a manager since she has no experience about it but perhaps the easiest is the right answer.
"I work as a...."
Your eyes show anticipation as your sights never left Haewon. This somehow made her feel nervous as she gulped a bit.
"Yeah?"
"I work.... As a... D-Dance choreographer!"
"A what?"
"A dance teacher! Yeah... I work for teaching the dances for the groups here."
Haewon smiled, hiding her actual identity from you. Aside from wanting to surprise you, she did not want to overwhelm you with the notion that she is an Idol. Everyone she encountered abandoned her once they discovered her true status. It is painful for her, but she has become accustomed to it. But now that you had her heart, she didn't want to let you go.
"Ah, A dance teacher. That's good to hear Haewon."
"Y-Yeah, anyway what about you Y/n. What brings you to the company."
"Well I was assigned to write about the financial report on the group NMIXX since the company I work for has invested in them."
A huge smile appeared on Haewon as she couldn't help but feel excited by your words. She felt like faith is telling her that you were the man for her as she was to you. If there were people who believed in destiny then Haewon was one of them.
"Say Y/n."
"hmm?"
"Do you wanna meet NMIXX?"
You wanted to refuse because it wasn't really necessary for you to engage with the group considering that your only task was to write a report on the financial side of things.
"It's alright Haewon, I'm oka-"
"But the leader has something to say to you."
That got your attention. There was no indication that you had ever met the leader of NMIXX. But, if you interrupted your steps, there was one person you met in this company that you didn't know much about: Yoon-ah. Surely she can't be an idol working in this facility given that she was fully wrapped up and visible.
.
.
.
"Yeah no, Yoon-ah is definitely an idol"
You thought to yourself as Haewon saw you show a face of realization.
"Thinking about it, there is one person I met earlier. Her name was Yoon-ah. I think she's an Idol here."
Haewon giggled and simply nodded her head. Haewon then stood up as she handed you her phone.
"Add your number in my contacts so that I can stalk-I mean call you when NMIXX need a hand. It's not bad to be friends with an Idol you know?"
You softly snatched her phone and entered your number. The rest of the day was unremarkable, except that you found Haewon attractive and enjoyable to be around. For the first time in your life, you were excited to go to work the next day, all because of one person, Oh Haewon.
The next day rolled by quickly and you were met with Haewon who was patiently waiting for you in front of the building. Seeing her made you smile as you walked towards her.
"Hey Haewon. You didn't have to wait for me you know."
"It's alright. Come on, NMIXX is waiting for you."
Haewon quickly grabbed your hand and dragged you to the elevator. Your cheeks were once again flushed as a result of her actions, but Haewon didn't seem to care. Haewon held your hand during the way to the NMIXX room, as if it were the most natural thing to do. Haewon then came to a room, which you knew was where NMIXX was. Feeling overwhelmed, you questioned Haewon if this was really necessary.
"Umm Haewon. I don't think we should-"
"It's alright. I'm with you. And here we go~"
Haewon opened the door dragging you in as your eyes saw 6 girls eyeing you up and down. You gulped in both fear and anxiety. Haewon on the other hand was smiling ear to ear but Sullyoon saw who was beside her leader, Immediately gasped and said
"Ah, Mr. Park. It's nice to meet you."
Sullyoon was the first one to greet you as the others followed soon. You also greeted them but your eyes landed on a familiar figure who was smiling softly.
"Ah, Miss Yoon-ah. I Didn't know you were an Idol."
Sullyoon giggled cutely as she nodded her head.
"It's nice to see you again Mr. Park, I didn't know you were close with our leader."
"I'm sorry, what now?"
You inquired while the rest of the group laughed at your reaction. You looked to your side as Haewon sneered. It was here that you discovered Haewon was not a dance instructor. She was too pretty to be just a dancing instructor, and her voice was as silky as polished jade. You had to blink a few times as the knowledge hit you.
"Haewon you're an Idol?"
"Oh No I'm a chef Y/n. Duh, of course I'm an Idol. Surprised?"
She gave you a smug grin as you giggled and nodded. Everyone was listening and watching your reaction to the discovery, but their focus was on how your hand and their leader's hand were intertwined with yours. A smirk appeared on their faces as they all looked at each other, with the same thoughts in mind..
Days passed, and you and the rest of the group, particularly Sullyoon and Haewon, grew closer. Haewon was the sparkplug who brought vitality to your day, whereas Sullyoon was the peaceful girl who made you feel at ease. Obviously, you weren't a blind man, as you can see that both girls were vying for your attention.
Sullyoon occasionally grows brave and clings to you as if you were a magnet enticing her. Haewon was secretly simmering with jealousy as she entered the fray and erupted with her own methods of capturing your attention, and boy did she succeed. When you were taking a break from writing your report on your laptop one day, Haewon came over to your side, essentially becoming your personal secretary. She was offering you beverages and food, encouraging you, and rubbing your shoulders. She was basically caring for you as a wife should.
In all honesty, this interfered with your work, and you would occasionally spend your concentration on keeping Sullyoon, but particularly Haewon, in check by reminding them that you were here to work. But Haewon understands how to hug your heart and draw you closer to her. The simple things she does for you, such as helping you, talking to you, bringing you food, and sending you good morning and good night texts, really warm your heart.
But the conclusion of all this all arrives at one chance that Haewon will take.
The promotions for NMIXX were finally completed, and as you expected, NMIXX's fame and popularity grew even more, while your company's investment increased significantly. It was a win-win situation for all parties, and with that, you were officially ready to file the final investment report and exit JYP Entertainment. As you packed your bag, you realized how much fun you'd had with the gang. Your face lit up with a little smile as memories passed before your eyes. But as you usually say
"Que sera Sera."
Grabbing your bag, you gazed around the practice room one more time, remembering the pleasant times you had laughing, eating, and telling stories with the others. You breathed deeply, knowing it was a great ride. But, as they say, all good things must come to an end. Grabbing the door handle, Haewon burst through it, her eyes sad. She bit her lips, holding the sorrow her heart was experiencing right now.
"Y-Y/n... I... I..."
Feeling the pain in her eyes, You pulled her close to you allowing her to hug you. Her arms held you like today was the last day on earth and you could feel her sobs carrying on the pain of letting you go.
"Haewon, Why are you crying?"
"J-Just b-because...I'll miss you... You know that.... Right?"
Haewon said through sniffles as she looked up to you and you found her adorable. Her pig teary puppy eyes accompanied with her small frown, and her snot coming out of her nose made her adorable. You smiled as you pulled out your handkerchief and wiped her tears and snot.
"Haewon, You can always message me, you know? It's not like we're not gonna see each other again."
"B-But my schedule will be busy and I won't see you and..and…"
Haewon cried once again as she buried her face on your chest. You patted her back and comforted her for the meantime. It felt like hours for Haewon hugging you but in reality it was only 10 minutes. She pulled away with her eyes a little puffed as you smiled and said
"I'll be going now Haewon. Thank you, for everything."
When you stated those words, you felt choked up since your emotions had suddenly surfaced. You departed swiftly, not wanting to exhibit your anguish, even though Haewon smiled and possibly gazed at you for the last time. She also felt regret because she knew now was the perfect time to confess, but she thought that letting you go was better. Her heart broke again when the sound of thunder boomed through the glass window. Haewon moved up to the chair and table in the room, watching the rain fall heavily on the ground.
Haewon felt as if the universe was wiping the wounds on her heart with rain. She sighed and groaned as she let her head strike the table, making a slight Thud sound, but her skin felt scratchy against the table. Lifting her head, she noticed an envelope, and her interest was piqued. She opened the envelope and found your final report. She gasped as she realized you had left the most critical thing you needed.
The final report.
Haewon was about to go out and give you the envelope when a sense of realization hit her.
"Shit, I don't know where he lives at"
Haewon grumbled, feeling frustrated and disappointed with herself. But Faith had different ideas for Haewon. Cupid did not want the story to finish here, so he pointed his arrow toward Haewon's head. Her eyes widened when she reopened the envelope.
"Of course! The company's address is right here. But... It seems I have to deliver this tomorrow.."
The rain continued to fall, and lightning could be heard for miles. Haewon watched the rain fall, while you were soaking as you entered your flat. You weren't really aware of the weather tonight, but the rain made itself apparent. You quickly went to the bathroom to take a shower. Unfortunately, it was too late. Your inadequate immune system caused you to feel a heavy burden on your back as your body heated up. As you try to treat the illness by taking medication. You covered yourself in your blanket and hoped for the best.
As the sun rose, Haewon stood in front of the firm building, holding your most crucial mail. She took a deep breath before entering the company building. Much to her surprise, the company building was different from JYPs in that everyone going past was dressed professionally rather than casually. People began to murmur when Haewon arrived, taking everyone by surprise. She didn't wear a mask or a huge hat; she showed her entire face. She then inquired about your department's location from the reception table, after which they directed her to the room. Haewon didn't hesitate to enter the elevator and soon the employee realized that Haewon was on the elevator, they all left just for Haewon to have the elevator by herself.
"Ah, the perks of being famous."
She thought to herself as the elevator doors opened, and Haewon walked confidently across the floor, surprising everyone. When Yeonjun looked up from his table and saw Haewon approaching them, he was shocked and perplexed. Yeonjun stood up, stopping Haewon in her steps.
"I'm sorry Ms. Haewon but only authorized people are allowed here."
Yeonjun stood his ground as he took a sip from his drink. Feeling confident by herself, she chuckled and smiled towards the guy.
"Oh didn't Y/n Mention? I'm his girlfriend."
Yeonjun spit out his drink to his side, surprised by Haewon's unexpected allegation. Haewon's eyes widened as the liquid sprayed their Cheif, who happened to overhear her arrival. Yeonjun apologized promptly to the chief.
"I'm so sorry chief!"
The chief, bathed in Yeonjun's drink, simply waved his hand dismissively, more interested with what transpired between your journeys and how you managed to capture the heart of one of Oh Haewon's
"I don't mind it Yeonjun. I'm more intrigued on how Y/n managed to captivate ms. Haewon here."
Despite the uproar in the office, Haewon realized she had just caused a storm and a misunderstanding, but this was the only way to assist you. She was prepared to take the punishment she would receive later, but just now she didn't care.
"Whatever will be, will be."
She thought to herself. But her vision saw an empty seat with your name on it. It piqued her interest seeing your absence.
"Umm.. Where's Y/n?"
"Ah, He's Apparently sick. Probably got caught by the rain yesterday."
Yeonjun spoke as he cleaned up the mess he had caused on the floor. This quickly put Haewon into full worry mode. Despite her self-proclaimed status as your girlfriend, she has no idea where you live. But with her front face, she took a big breath and inquired about your location.
"Yeonjun-ssi, do you know where he lives? I wanna take care of him"
Hanni's bold statement made Yeonjun stop and have his eyes widened in surprise. He was about to say your address when an Idea popped into his head. He smirked as he stood up and laid out his plan. Haewon chuckled and agreed on the plan of Yeonjun.
Today was the worst day for you. Not only did you become sick, but you also don't know where you put your final report, which damaged your chances of moving up in the firm. Your heart was broken, and nothing will change your frown right now. Everything was going so beautifully for Haewon, but everything else was falling apart.
"I hate my life..."
You grumbled as you laid in your bed, thinking about what you should do next. Your phone rang, and it was a message from Yeonjun informing you that he had arrived at your door with food and beer. Yeonjun knew you were ill and tried to cheer you up. With a heavy feeling and a weak body, you stood up and approached the door, opening it.
"Thanks Yeon-"
"Gosh you look horrible. Let's fix that shall we. Hehe~"
A familiar female voice made you look down and saw the girl that captured your heart. Her bright smile was still on her face despite the rain that was pouring on your surroundings.
"H-Haewon what are you-"
"Ummm Yeonjun Apparently can't come cause he was dragged to a blind date, So here I am. I brought chicken and medicine."
You noticed the heavy bag she carried and you felt bad that a small girl like her had to carry such a bag. You reached down to help her but Haewon shook her head.
"It's fine Y/n. I'm a strong woman, I have muscles on my arms. So, Umm... Can I come in?"
You snapped out of your stupor and allowed Haewon to enter your apartment. Your apartment wasn't too huge or little. It was large enough to accommodate at least four people, and Haewon made herself at home. She hurriedly got out the chicken and soup she had bought earlier for you. Yeonjun's strategy was easy. Yeonjun would message you that he was going to visit you, but it was actually Haewon who came to you.
"Haewon I can help you-"
"Just stay in bed Y/n. Don't overwork yourself, cause today, you'll be taken care by the great NMIXX Leader, Oh Haewon. So feel blessed. I just don't do this to anyone you know.....except you"
She mumbled the final part so you couldn't hear it. You lay back in your bedroom, wondering how Haewon knew about your condition, but there was a bigger problem at hand: it was your first time having a lady around, and you had no idea what to do. You began to overthink what to do, which just exacerbated your headache.
"Heyy~ can you sit up Y/n? I got you food."
Listening to her command, You sat up as Haewon setup the small foldable table on your bed. Her bright energy and smile really makes all your problems disappear.
"You don't have to move Y/n. Imma feed you."
You blushed at her words, wanting to decline her offer. But her bright and exuberant enthusiasm was too much to pass up, and she was offering after all. It isn't like you told her to do it. So you simply nodded your head as Haewon began feeding you. She took a spoon of the soup she had bought earlier and gave it a few blows with her mouth. Your eyes landed on her lips, which caused your heart to beat.
"Say Ahhh~"
You opened your mouth as Haewon gave you a spoonful of the soup and you were surprised by how delicious it tasted.
"Oh wow, Haewon this is delicious."
Haewon giggled, and the sound made you grin. Haewon began feeding you while also telling you fascinating stories that never fail to make you laugh. Haewon was never boring to be around, but what about you? You're a boring guy in general. So it was a miracle that your fate became intertwined with Haewons.
"By the way Y/n."
"Yeah?"
"You left your report yesterday on our practice room. So I gave it to your chief this morning along with Yeonjun-ssi. He's a nice guy."
You felt at rest after hearing what Haewon said because Haewon had solved your biggest concern. Honestly, you began to wonder how you deserved someone like Haewon. But suddenly a thought occurred in your head.
"Wait, the office isn't allowing anyone to enter. You need permission from me to enter."
Haewon gulped as she knows that she has to confess everything starting from the time she fell for you. If fate once gave her an opportunity to confess before, today was her last chance to admit her feelings. It was now or never for Haewon as she took a deep breath.
"Umm well you see....please don't get mad at me okay?"
You can tell Haewon was trying to hide something as her bright energy was nowhere to be seen and her eyes were looking down trying to avoid your gaze.
"I.....I…."
"You what?"
Haewon had the words on her mind, but her body was hesitant to say them. Those are the words she wants to say. She was uneasy about expressing those things, but then she remembered her life motto. "Whatever will be, will be" . She simply decided to speak it, not caring about the ramifications in the future.
"I told them that I'm your.... Girlfriend...."
For a little period of time, the world seemed to stand still. Hearing the final word she said made you go back to the first time you met Haewon. Was fate actually making arrangements just for you at this moment? Or was it just a coincidence that everything came together at this exact moment?
Haewon began to feel trapped by the quiet, and tears began to rise up in her eyes. She understands that betting on fate can be risky, and today she would pay the price.
"I-I'm sorry. I-I'll get going no-"
You pulled Haewon to your embrace. This time, it was you who held her like it was the last day on earth as you didn't want to let her go.
Who cares if faith played a part of all of this or if fate has more problems for you to face in the future.
"Whatever Happens, Happens."
Haewon widened her eyes when you said those words. She couldn't help but hug you back tightly.
"I don't care what happens in the future, Haewon. But right now, all I care is what is happening now. I wanna focus on the present as the future can wait. All I want is this. For you to be in my arms. Call me selfish but I just want you in my arms right now Haewon. I have fallen too much for you that I can't let you-"
Haewon pulled away from you with tears streaming down on her face. Her bright smile has appeared as she said
"Que sera sera. I love you too Y/n."
She leaned forward, bridging the gap between you two as her lips pressed against yours. Regardless of the soup and chicken sauce on your lips, Haewon kissed you with love and passion. Haewon began to chuckle as you kissed her forehead, and both of you pulled away.
"I love you Haewon."
"I love you more than myself Y/n."
She hugged you tight as both of you were clinging to each other on your bed as a realization hit your thoughts.
"Umm, You might get sick Haewon. You should-"
"Stay and cuddle you? Absolutely."
You chuckled at her comment. Your monotonous life was about to change because Haewon had won your heart. From one-sided love to meeting her crying, then meeting her again, and now she's holding you in your bed. It was certainly an exciting journey, but from now on. You are aware that your relationship will endure numerous challenges that will separate you from one another. The route will not be simple for either of you, but no matter what happens in the future, you will always stay true to your moto.
The larger arm was circling the golden numerals surrounding your watch, and the clock was ticking along as usual. Since you have been waiting for this your entire life, today was meant to be special for you. You got ready for this day by getting up earlier than normal and wearing your best outfit. It has all come down to this after endless days of speech practice and preparation about what to display your crush..
You brought her favorite flowers from a nearby flower shop and messaged her to meet in the Bay Area, where you first met. That girl has helped you through your entire life of anguish and pain. She was the sunshine you treasured, and you wanted nothing more than for her to be pure and untouched by civilization. It began with a simple act of assisting her in catching her dog, progressed to becoming friends, and then to falling in love.
Perhaps it was destiny as many would call it, that you met in the first place. Arriving at the place where it all began you patiently waited.
Waited.
And waited.
And waited.
But nobody came through.
The sun was finally setting, and the blue sky had become orange, resembling what many scientists refer to as the golden hour. Even though the meeting time was early, you still had optimism before the clock struck 6 p.m. You sat there on the edge of the sea, watching the small ships sail by and the music the sea was making. Every splash it made put you at rest, and then you heard the voice of the person you'd been waiting for. Your face lit up as you jumped down the wall and saw the girl.
With another man.
You'd never forget that laugh, which threw your mind off track. Her grin was worth a thousand gold. It was supposed to be you in that position, but it wasn't. The man she was with was making jokes and making her laugh, and it was clear that the two of them loved each other. You watch with a heavy heart as they go past you despite the fact that they are only a few feet away.
You could feel your heart breaking piece by piece as the girl you love was taken away by another man. Realizations began to surface in your mind as a sour chuckle came out of your mouth.
"I'm so stupid huh?"
You thought to yourself. Perhaps a little backtracking was required. She never really exhibited interest in you, did she? Sure, you were interested in her, but did she make an effort to pique your interest? Perhaps it was your imagination that led you to believe she was interested when, in fact, she was simply being a nice friend.
You groaned and stared at the boque you purchased. Every flower that was present there represented something. The roses, tulips, and sunflowers were a nice combination, but they now have no meaning. Walking away is the best thing to do right now, and a little drink won't hurt, right?
However, after a few steps forward, you came to a halt when you heard someone cry. Your gaze travelled in all directions before settling on a girl with her hands over her face, crying. much if you are already upset, witnessing someone else weep makes you feel much worse for them. Your fist clenched as you felt a firm thing in your hand. You had a bouquet of flowers ready to be thrown away right now, but doing so would be a horrible decision. You took a big breath and started your way to the girl.
"Umm... Excuse me?"
You called out of the girl. You weren't really sure if this was the best time to be nosy but you have to give the flowers to someone else instead of throwing them. The girl looked up and saw how puffy her eyes looked.
"She must have been crying for a while now.."
You thought to yourself as you shook that thought off and handed her your bouquet of flowers.
"I know this looks weird but I think you deserve these flowers more than I need them."
This was your best explanation to her, and to be honest, it was bizarre. Who in their right mind would give a stranger a bouquet of flowers and simply accept them? You were well aware of the repercussions of your actions, but the girl totally removed her hand, revealing her face. It was horrible to see how devastated she appeared, and you may recognize yourself in her because your heart had also been destroyed.
Haewon just stared at the bouquet of flowers and for some reason, she was captivated by the patter of the flowers that were in there.
"I know... It's weird for a stranger to give someone I don't know flowers but I hope this would make it less painful?"
Haewon looked up to see your face. She was able to recognize faces from her fans and individuals she had briefly met, but seeing your face was her first time meeting you, and the agony she was bearing was quickly alleviated by your simple offer.
Without thinking, Haewon softly accepted the flowers, her eyes ogling them. The perfume was soothing her down, and she could feel a little grin on her lips. You, on the other hand, grinned slightly, knowing that your actions had made someone happy. Perhaps this day served as a lesson for you rather than a heartache. Kindness, after all, was a pleasant sensation.
"T-Thank you.."
Haewon weakly said as you could only nod your head.
"It's alright. Ummm, I'll be going first then. Goodbye."
Your job was done and there was no more reason for you to talk to the girl. She needed time for herself and what you did was the start of her to calm down and pick herself up.
"Wait!"
She stopped you on your tracks as you looked behind you to see the girl clinging to the flowers close to her.
"What's your name?"
Strangely enough, you felt like saying your name wouldn't be harmful. But considering that you're the one who gave her the flowers, it was only right for her to know your name.
"Y/n Park."
She nodded her head and bowed at a particular angle surprising you.
"Thank you Mr. Park. I will remember your kindness."
Feeling flustered, you shook off her actions and said
"N-No need to bow that much Miss."
Haewon straightened herself up and smiled at you. Her grin actually caught your attention. It was ridiculous of you to compare someone, but Haewon's smile reminded you of someone you used to know or was familiar with. Perhaps you've seen that smile before but can't pinpoint where it is.
"Ah, I almost forgot, I'm Oh Haewon by the way. Nice to meet you."
"Like wise.. Umm.. See you around Ms. Haewon."
You wanted to leave right now since you hadn't expected to feel so bewildered meeting someone for the first time. Your brain told you she was someone you knew, but she wasn't someone to you. It confused you so much that it eclipsed your sadness.
Haewon, on the other hand, was smiling broadly as she began to walk back to the JYP office, the bouquet in her hand. People around the building were surprised to find Haewon smiling with flowers in her hand, despite the fact that she had been sorrowful earlier. Your kindness had left a mark on her thoughts, and her members were eager to see her grin.
"Unnie-eh? Where did you get that?"
Kyujin canceled her hug to their leader as everyone's interest reached a height. They were worried about her since she had been quite dull or tired for the past few days. Even though they attempted to make her laugh and smile, they knew it wasn't enough, and when she went AFK for the past several hours, they became concerned.
"Oh? A guy gave it to me."
Her statement made everyone widen their eyes as they all looked surprised and shocked.
Who was the person that gave their leader a smile that was genuine that they couldn't bring out?
"Another day, another boring working day..."
You sighed and prepared for your job. You were an officer worker, and despite the monotonous nature of the job, it allowed you to pay your rent and eat. You left your apartment and followed the regular path you normally take to the bus station to wait for the bus. Your gaze was drawn to your phone, and despite the fact that it was empty of text notifications from anyone, you were staring at the most recent message you had sent her.
You sighed and closed your phone. The bridge that was built around that friendship you had with her was diminished. Repairing it was impossible as your mind was occupied with the moments you two shared. Even though it was one sided, it was still painful for you.
Arriving at your work office was pretty much the same. Sitting down, opening your computer, checking the files, and printing papers. It was your typical office scenery as you placed your bag below your table. Seeing that you have arrived, a friend of yours peaked over at your table.
"So how did it go? ~"
Your friend Yeonjun smiled happily hoping for good news but you just sighed and shook your head. This surprised him as he was sure that you had this in the bag.
"Eh? Why? I thought last week was the day?"
"Maybe I was just pondering things. It was a one sided love after all."
Yeonjun gasped at you. He was for sure thinking that she was the one for you yet it wasn't. Maybe his gut instinct was right.
"Remember when I told you that something isn't right with the relationship you had with her?"
"Yeah?"
"looks like I was right."
He laughed at you and you could only sigh as what Yeonjun said was right. You were merely blinded by all this stuff she did that you had thought that she likes you. Thinking back on it now, you cringed remembering the things you did for her.
"Well it's in the past now. Let's forget about it and move on"
That was your motto in life. That kind of saying has led you into this situation. You weren't complaining, of course, since you believe that nothing in the past is that important, and you should move on with your life. Everything has a purpose for you, thus there was probably a reason you met her.
That's why your heart split into a thousand pieces.
Sure, the occasion may be lost and become a hazy memory, but the emotions will not. The sensation of heartbreak will return time and again. It may not be exactly what you expected, but it will undoubtedly appear in some form. One example would be when you were watching a film. That movie you were viewing coincided with the period you watched movies with her. It was in that film that you fell for her, and it brought back memories of the sorrow.
"I guess you're right. But anyway-"
"Y/n, Chief is asking for you."
A workmate of yours came near your workplace as you just nodded your head at her. Yeonjun looked at you confused.
"Why is the chief asking for you? Did you do something?"
You shrugged your shoulders, unsure. You never failed any previous reports because you always submitted them on time, and sometimes even sooner. The chief was not a scary person, but he was very severe with his employees. To avoid upsetting him, you left your office and walked to the chief's office, knocking before entering his chamber. His workplace table was tidy and well-organized, unlike the majority of the company's employees.
"Ah, Y/n, take a seat."
You sat across from him as he took out a folder and handed it to you. You took it and opened it, and the first thing you noticed was the name of the corporation labeled on it. Your eyes widen as you look at the chief in surprise, as he simply grinned and chuckled..
"Sir, why is JYP Entertainment on this file sir?"
"Well you see Y/n, we're sharing our investment to one of its kpop group and I want you to write about the progress of our investment on them especially since their comeback is approaching. I want a full detailed report done after their comeback is done. Got it?"
Not wanting to disappoint your chief, you accepted it and thanked him for the opportunity. Leaving out of his office, you smiled happily that the chief has trusted you on such an important task at hand. Yeonjun saw your smile and couldn't help but feel intrigued.
"What's the big smile for? You're getting promoted?"
"Nope, well, hopefully if I do well on this task, I could get promoted."
Yeonjun clapped his hand in amusement and support of you. Not wanting to waste any time, you immediately started to work on your computer, researching JYP Entertainment and learning about the stocks of the firms that had invested in it. Your eyes immediately spotted the spikes and falls of each company's inventions on the groups under the label, and you made sure to record them for future reference in your report.
"Perhaps I should visit JYP entertainment tomorrow."
Your regular work hour consisted of producing reports and researching information. But after the clock struck 7 p.m., it was time to go home. Packing your belongings and exiting the building, you proceeded down the familiar night street. You noticed a billboard showcasing JYP idols, including ITZY, Twice, and Straykids, but one group was unfamiliar to you. But for some strange reason, one idol looked familiar to you. You shrugged your shoulder and started walking, thinking that you'd remember her when the time came.
The next morning arrived faster than you imagined because you were dressed for work. You left your apartment and were set to go to JYP Entertainment. Your chief has already informed the company of your arrival, as you ensured that all of your belongings were in your suitcase. Grabbing a cab, you informed the driver of your destination while watching the scenery unfold as the taxi passed by buildings and establishments. The ride was brief, as you paid for your taxi and exited the vehicle. You instantly noticed the tall structure in front of you since you didn't anticipate it to be so large.
"Considering that JYP Ent. Is a huge name, I can't expect less from them now can I?"
You were ready to enter the building when you noticed a girl in distress, looking for something on the ground. When you saw her struggle, you sighed and checked your watch. Ten minutes before the company's board meeting. Perhaps you can afford a minute or two, right?
"Miss? Is everything alright?"
You asked as the girl looked at your direction but her vision was blurry as she can't properly see you. In desperate help, she nodded her head.
"Y-Yes, have you seen some glasses nearby? I-I can't properly see without them."
You decided to aid her after hearing her gentle voice and despair, and there was a pair of glasses on the floor not far from where you two were. You went to fetch it, brushed a few dust particles from the glass, and handed it to her.
"Here you go miss. I believe this are yours?"
You handed the girl her glasses, which she quickly placed on her eyes. She smiled cheerfully and bowed at you. You simply brush off her thoughtfulness as you realize how her beautiful eyes drew your attention. She was wearing a mask, so you couldn't see her face, but her eyes revealed that she's a very pretty girl.
"Thank you Mister for helping me."
"Ah No it's fine. I'm just trying to help, I guess."
"Umm.. P-Perhaps your also entering the building mister?"
"Huh? Oh yeah I am."
The girl beamed with happiness as she smiled underneath her mask. Although you can't clearly see it, her eyes show that she was smiling underneath her white mask.
"I-I can help you tour around. Where are you going by the way Mister?"
"Ah, the board member room? Where meetings happen?"
You tried your best to describe the place you were heading to as the girl immediately know where that place was.
"Ah, I know where that is Mister. Follow me."
The girl walked ahead as you followed her from behind. Entering the building, you were immediately amazed by the interior design as you were at awe. The girl chuckled softly seeing your reaction.
"Woah, this place is... Amazing."
"Hehe, well that's JYP for you."
The two of you entered the elevator and to your surprise, many people suddenly stormed leaving absolutely no space for you or the girl. Not wanting to let her get squished, you used your body to cover her from the crowd but the position for it was awkward to say the least. You were literally balancing yourself with just your feet and arms leaving the girl blushing and her heart pounding so fast. Perhaps it was because of her introverted nature that she immediately picked up what you were trying to do as she couldn't help but feel her heart race.
As the elevator stopped, the crowd got smaller and smaller until it was just you and her.
"You alright?"
"Huh? Oh, yeah. Thank you again for protecting me, Mister."
"Ah, it's nothing. Just uhh.. Trying to help?"
The girl chuckled at your poor attempt to joke but somehow it worked on her. Realizing that it was just you two in the elevator, you decided to ask for her name.
"Ah, by the way I'm Y/n Park. And you are?"
The girl hesitated at first but she ended up saying her name anyway.
"Seol Yoon-ah. Yoona for short Mister."
As the elevator door opened, you nodded in response to hearing her name. Lily told you that this was his floor, and hers was still much higher. You got off the elevator and thanked her again for her assistance, while Lily simply waved it off and waved you farewell as the elevator door closed. Walking along the strange hallway, your mind was still preoccupied with meeting Lily, and you were relieved that you had already made a friend in the building, as the conference room was within sight. You knocked before entering the room.
Sullyoon on the other hand finally arrived at their practice room as all her members were there ready to start their practice session for the day. Haewon, their Leader, saw Sullyoon entering as she greeted her as she greeted her back.
"Morning Sully, you sure took your time."
"Ah well I kinda tripped on the way and my glasses fell of my face so I couldn't see."
Hearing what Sullyoon said made everyone worry for her as they surrounded her. Sullyoon just smiled and chuckled at her members. Before she would be overwhelmed by this much attention but being together for such a long time now made her already aware of their behaviors.
"That must have been terrible. Anyway, did you get it back?"
Bae asked as Jiwoo gave her a stare of disbelief and confusion as her question already had an answer.
"Unnie, she's literally wearing her glasses now."
Jiwoo's comment made everyone laugh as Sullyoon chuckled.
"Well a sweet guy helped me in finding my glasses and also protected me earlier on the elevator."
Sullyoon smiled and blushed remembering your actions as this reaction got her members thrilled and curious on who made Sullyoon blush.
"Spill the tea girl."
Lily said making everyone agree to their oldest as Sullyoon spoke the name that Haewon was familiar with.
"Y/n Park. I think he's a new employee here."
The girls squealed except Haewon who had her eyes widened in surprise and in shock. Kyujin seeing their Leader frozen got her curious.
"Why the long face Unnie?"
Kyujin's question snapped Haewon out of her trance as she sighed and reminded her members of the bouquet of flowers in their dorm.
"Remember those flowers that I'm taking care of right now?"
They all nodded their heads as Haewon smiled brightly captivating her members.
"He's the same person. I'm sure of it."
Now it was everyone's turn to act surprised by their leader's claim. Haewon on the other hand was smiling brightly as she can finally meet the person that brought a smile on her face.
"I know love at first sight is stupid but....I am stupidly in love after all"
.
.
.
The meeting ended after you were presented with a variety of scenarios in which stocks could rise or fall. Overall, your focus was on the group NMIXX, and according to the projections, they have a good possibility of attracting other companies to invest in them, given the tendency of their fame rising with each comeback. That being said, NMIXX is still a long way from the success of the other groups in the organization, but in your opinion, this was a solid step.
Exiting the meeting room, you decided to head to the building's cafeteria to fill in your soft growling stomach. You placed a hand on your stomach as you chuckled.
"I wonder how I survived that meeting without my stomach growling like a lion"
But the happiness on your face faded when you realized your previous guide, Sullyoon, was no longer with you. You sighed and placed your hand on your brow, knowing that you had to explore this vast and expansive edifice on your own. You retraced your steps in order to find the elevator; however, your initial thought was to ask the receptionist on the ground floor. However, it appears that your desire was so intense that you became disoriented and strayed into new area.
"I don't think I went pass this one earlier...shit"
You attempted again to recollect your previous steps, but your brain digested food instead. Frustrated that your brain wasn't cooperating with you, you decided to look for a snack bar machine nearby and eat that for lunch. However, it appears like locating a snack bar is like finding the lost city of Atlantis: seemingly impossible. By this point, your hunger had sapped the vitality from your legs, which were about to give way. You stumbled on the floor because your stomach was causing you pain because it was so empty.
"Damn it. Why is this building so huge anyway!"
You cursed the engineer and architect of this structure on your head, causing their following generation to suffer tremendously. With a sigh, you sat on the floor, leaning against the wall. You wanted to rest your legs a little because the continual walking earlier made them tired, and hunger played a vital role in making you stumble on the floor..
But, unbeknownst to you, Haewon was passing by and quickly noticed you. She gasped, not expecting to find you in such a state, as she approached you. Your ears perked up as the heavy footstep became louder by the second. Turning your head in the direction of the stomps, you saw a girl dash towards you like a savage bear, instilling panic within you. Haewon paused her pace as she kneeled in front of you, holding your cheeks and scrutinizing your face.
"Are you hurt? Are you okay? Do you want to kiss me? Or are you perhaps injured? Ah! Do you want me to take care of you?"
Everything was moving so fast that your brain couldn't process what was happening. But your eyes did saw Haewons face and there you immediately recognized her.
"H-Haewon? I mean, Miss Haewon."
Haewon gasped as she covered her mouth in amazement and in shock. Her cheeks was visibly turning red and her eye pupils wanted to turn into a heart shaped when you said her name. Haewon was glad that you still remembered her and that she couldn't help but feel emotional.
"Y-You remember me..."
"Yeah of course I would. It wasn't that long anyw-huh? Are you crying?"
Haewon suddenly felt so happy that her eyes began to produce tears of joy. You were confused on why would Haewon suddenly start getting teared up. You immediately tried to comfort her by taking out your handkerchief as you offered it to Haewon.
"He's even offering me his handkerchief... I fucking love him!"
Haewon tumbled into your arms, both of you on the ground, and Haewon hugged you fiercely, inhaling your smell. You were bewildered and baffled as to why Haewon ran toward you, clutching you fiercely.
"D-Did I do a mistake on giving her those flowers? Hah! We're those flowers poisonous and now she's seeking revenge?!"
Both of you were clearly a dumbass but perfect fit for each other but didn't realize it yet. You stood back up with Haewon holding you tight as you apologized to her.
"I'm sorry Haewon. I.. I didn't mean to bring harm to you with those flowers.."
Haewon chuckled and smiled at you. Her eyes looked so warm and showed signs of love. But you were captivated by her smile as her vision of you was glowing.
"Dummy~ Why are you apologizing? I still have those flowers you know."
"S-So this isn't an act of assault?"
Haewon but her lips not wanting to laugh but her body betrayed her as she began laughing her ass off. You were visibly confused seeing her act from being sad to suddenly laughing like a lunatic. You feared that Haewon was a crazy girl.
"Your Funny Y/n. Ah, wait hold on, let me help you up."
You and Haewon both stood up, and the timing couldn't have been worse. Your stomach growled the loudest, and if you thought embarrassment was bad enough, consider the physical discomfort of an empty stomach. Haewon was quick to react, pulling out a chocolate bar from her pocket and cheerfully giving it to you..
"Here you go Y/n. You might need it more."
"A-Ah, thanks Haewon. I'll repay you back somehow."
Haewon just giggled as you munched on the chocolate bar like it was no tomorrow. Without even a minute passing by, the chocolate bar was already gone. And Haewon smiled at you.
"Looks like someone's hungry."
"So-Sorry."
Haewon shook her head as she pointed at the nearby elevator. Nearby elevator. nearby. Elevator.
Oh how stupidly blind are you for not being able to see that an Elevator was just near where you are. A look of disappointment and relief was evident on your face as this got Haewon intrigued.
"Is something wrong Y/n?"
"Ah, no, it's just that I was looking for an elevator singe earlier and I just believe that it was right in front of me"
Haewon laughed at your sweet error as you and Haewon entered the elevator and began talking. She informed you that the flowers you gave her on that day were still alive and in her dorm, which you were delighted to hear. Haewon then began to question why you were at the building after you informed her that you would be supervising your company's financial development on the group NMIXX. Haewon smiled from ear to ear when she heard her group come out of your mouth..
"NMIXX has a bright future ahead of them in the industry seeing how amazing their growth is amazing."
"Well what can I say? They are pretty and talented."
"Is that so? I haven't really looked up the members actually."
Haewon was saddened by this, but an idea occurred to her: she wanted you to be astonished when you met NMIXX, her group. As the elevator doors opened, signifying that they had arrived at their destination floor, you and Haewon exited. The walk to the building cafeteria was short, and when you got, you were shocked by how large it was.
"Woah, this place sure is big.."
"Yup, come on, let's get our food."
Haewon bravely grabbed your hand and brought you to the food department. Her unexpected physical touch caught you off guard, and a blush spread across your cheeks. You've never touched a girl's hand like this before, and it's made you feel something.
Haewon delivered you your food tray and gave you helpful advise on what to eat. Honestly, Haewon persuaded you to take the greatest cuisine available as the two of you seated at a table. Haewon smiled as she watched you, her hands supporting her face.
"Say Haewon, how come you're familiar with this place?"
"Hmm? Cause I work here."
"Oh? What department are you from?"
Haewon raises her eyebrows at your question as she found it confusing. Her brain couldn't understand what your words meant as you noticed her facial expression showing confusion. You couldn't help but chuckle at her.
"What I meant is that, what part of the company do you work for? A manager? An assistant manager? An employee or an intern?"
Haewon finally understood what you said as she shook her head.
"I'm an.... Uhh... "
Haewon didn't want to admit too soon to you as she wanted it to be a surprise to you. So her brain decided to look on for a possible work for her in the company. Of course she can't be a manager since she has no experience about it but perhaps the easiest is the right answer.
"I work as a...."
Your eyes show anticipation as your sights never left Haewon. This somehow made her feel nervous as she gulped a bit.
"Yeah?"
"I work.... As a... D-Dance choreographer!"
"A what?"
"A dance teacher! Yeah... I work for teaching the dances for the groups here."
Haewon smiled, hiding her actual identity from you. Aside from wanting to surprise you, she did not want to overwhelm you with the notion that she is an Idol. Everyone she encountered abandoned her once they discovered her true status. It is painful for her, but she has become accustomed to it. But now that you had her heart, she didn't want to let you go.
"Ah, A dance teacher. That's good to hear Haewon."
"Y-Yeah, anyway what about you Y/n. What brings you to the company."
"Well I was assigned to write about the financial report on the group NMIXX since the company I work for has invested in them."
A huge smile appeared on Haewon as she couldn't help but feel excited by your words. She felt like faith is telling her that you were the man for her as she was to you. If there were people who believed in destiny then Haewon was one of them.
"Say Y/n."
"hmm?"
"Do you wanna meet NMIXX?"
You wanted to refuse because it wasn't really necessary for you to engage with the group considering that your only task was to write a report on the financial side of things.
"It's alright Haewon, I'm oka-"
"But the leader has something to say to you."
That got your attention. There was no indication that you had ever met the leader of NMIXX. But, if you interrupted your steps, there was one person you met in this company that you didn't know much about: Yoon-ah. Surely she can't be an idol working in this facility given that she was fully wrapped up and visible.
.
.
.
"Yeah no, Yoon-ah is definitely an idol"
You thought to yourself as Haewon saw you show a face of realization.
"Thinking about it, there is one person I met earlier. Her name was Yoon-ah. I think she's an Idol here."
Haewon giggled and simply nodded her head. Haewon then stood up as she handed you her phone.
"Add your number in my contacts so that I can stalk-I mean call you when NMIXX need a hand. It's not bad to be friends with an Idol you know?"
You softly snatched her phone and entered your number. The rest of the day was unremarkable, except that you found Haewon attractive and enjoyable to be around. For the first time in your life, you were excited to go to work the next day, all because of one person, Oh Haewon.
The next day rolled by quickly and you were met with Haewon who was patiently waiting for you in front of the building. Seeing her made you smile as you walked towards her.
"Hey Haewon. You didn't have to wait for me you know."
"It's alright. Come on, NMIXX is waiting for you."
Haewon quickly grabbed your hand and dragged you to the elevator. Your cheeks were once again flushed as a result of her actions, but Haewon didn't seem to care. Haewon held your hand during the way to the NMIXX room, as if it were the most natural thing to do. Haewon then came to a room, which you knew was where NMIXX was. Feeling overwhelmed, you questioned Haewon if this was really necessary.
"Umm Haewon. I don't think we should-"
"It's alright. I'm with you. And here we go~"
Haewon opened the door dragging you in as your eyes saw 6 girls eyeing you up and down. You gulped in both fear and anxiety. Haewon on the other hand was smiling ear to ear but Sullyoon saw who was beside her leader, Immediately gasped and said
"Ah, Mr. Park. It's nice to meet you."
Sullyoon was the first one to greet you as the others followed soon. You also greeted them but your eyes landed on a familiar figure who was smiling softly.
"Ah, Miss Yoon-ah. I Didn't know you were an Idol."
Sullyoon giggled cutely as she nodded her head.
"It's nice to see you again Mr. Park, I didn't know you were close with our leader."
"I'm sorry, what now?"
You inquired while the rest of the group laughed at your reaction. You looked to your side as Haewon sneered. It was here that you discovered Haewon was not a dance instructor. She was too pretty to be just a dancing instructor, and her voice was as silky as polished jade. You had to blink a few times as the knowledge hit you.
"Haewon you're an Idol?"
"Oh No I'm a chef Y/n. Duh, of course I'm an Idol. Surprised?"
She gave you a smug grin as you giggled and nodded. Everyone was listening and watching your reaction to the discovery, but their focus was on how your hand and their leader's hand were intertwined with yours. A smirk appeared on their faces as they all looked at each other, with the same thoughts in mind..
Days passed, and you and the rest of the group, particularly Sullyoon and Haewon, grew closer. Haewon was the sparkplug who brought vitality to your day, whereas Sullyoon was the peaceful girl who made you feel at ease. Obviously, you weren't a blind man, as you can see that both girls were vying for your attention.
Sullyoon occasionally grows brave and clings to you as if you were a magnet enticing her. Haewon was secretly simmering with jealousy as she entered the fray and erupted with her own methods of capturing your attention, and boy did she succeed. When you were taking a break from writing your report on your laptop one day, Haewon came over to your side, essentially becoming your personal secretary. She was offering you beverages and food, encouraging you, and rubbing your shoulders. She was basically caring for you as a wife should.
In all honesty, this interfered with your work, and you would occasionally spend your concentration on keeping Sullyoon, but particularly Haewon, in check by reminding them that you were here to work. But Haewon understands how to hug your heart and draw you closer to her. The simple things she does for you, such as helping you, talking to you, bringing you food, and sending you good morning and good night texts, really warm your heart.
But the conclusion of all this all arrives at one chance that Haewon will take.
The promotions for NMIXX were finally completed, and as you expected, NMIXX's fame and popularity grew even more, while your company's investment increased significantly. It was a win-win situation for all parties, and with that, you were officially ready to file the final investment report and exit JYP Entertainment. As you packed your bag, you realized how much fun you'd had with the gang. Your face lit up with a little smile as memories passed before your eyes. But as you usually say
"Que sera Sera."
Grabbing your bag, you gazed around the practice room one more time, remembering the pleasant times you had laughing, eating, and telling stories with the others. You breathed deeply, knowing it was a great ride. But, as they say, all good things must come to an end. Grabbing the door handle, Haewon burst through it, her eyes sad. She bit her lips, holding the sorrow her heart was experiencing right now.
"Y-Y/n... I... I..."
Feeling the pain in her eyes, You pulled her close to you allowing her to hug you. Her arms held you like today was the last day on earth and you could feel her sobs carrying on the pain of letting you go.
"Haewon, Why are you crying?"
"J-Just b-because...I'll miss you... You know that.... Right?"
Haewon said through sniffles as she looked up to you and you found her adorable. Her pig teary puppy eyes accompanied with her small frown, and her snot coming out of her nose made her adorable. You smiled as you pulled out your handkerchief and wiped her tears and snot.
"Haewon, You can always message me, you know? It's not like we're not gonna see each other again."
"B-But my schedule will be busy and I won't see you and..and…"
Haewon cried once again as she buried her face on your chest. You patted her back and comforted her for the meantime. It felt like hours for Haewon hugging you but in reality it was only 10 minutes. She pulled away with her eyes a little puffed as you smiled and said
"I'll be going now Haewon. Thank you, for everything."
When you stated those words, you felt choked up since your emotions had suddenly surfaced. You departed swiftly, not wanting to exhibit your anguish, even though Haewon smiled and possibly gazed at you for the last time. She also felt regret because she knew now was the perfect time to confess, but she thought that letting you go was better. Her heart broke again when the sound of thunder boomed through the glass window. Haewon moved up to the chair and table in the room, watching the rain fall heavily on the ground.
Haewon felt as if the universe was wiping the wounds on her heart with rain. She sighed and groaned as she let her head strike the table, making a slight Thud sound, but her skin felt scratchy against the table. Lifting her head, she noticed an envelope, and her interest was piqued. She opened the envelope and found your final report. She gasped as she realized you had left the most critical thing you needed.
The final report.
Haewon was about to go out and give you the envelope when a sense of realization hit her.
"Shit, I don't know where he lives at"
Haewon grumbled, feeling frustrated and disappointed with herself. But Faith had different ideas for Haewon. Cupid did not want the story to finish here, so he pointed his arrow toward Haewon's head. Her eyes widened when she reopened the envelope.
"Of course! The company's address is right here. But... It seems I have to deliver this tomorrow.."
The rain continued to fall, and lightning could be heard for miles. Haewon watched the rain fall, while you were soaking as you entered your flat. You weren't really aware of the weather tonight, but the rain made itself apparent. You quickly went to the bathroom to take a shower. Unfortunately, it was too late. Your inadequate immune system caused you to feel a heavy burden on your back as your body heated up. As you try to treat the illness by taking medication. You covered yourself in your blanket and hoped for the best.
As the sun rose, Haewon stood in front of the firm building, holding your most crucial mail. She took a deep breath before entering the company building. Much to her surprise, the company building was different from JYPs in that everyone going past was dressed professionally rather than casually. People began to murmur when Haewon arrived, taking everyone by surprise. She didn't wear a mask or a huge hat; she showed her entire face. She then inquired about your department's location from the reception table, after which they directed her to the room. Haewon didn't hesitate to enter the elevator and soon the employee realized that Haewon was on the elevator, they all left just for Haewon to have the elevator by herself.
"Ah, the perks of being famous."
She thought to herself as the elevator doors opened, and Haewon walked confidently across the floor, surprising everyone. When Yeonjun looked up from his table and saw Haewon approaching them, he was shocked and perplexed. Yeonjun stood up, stopping Haewon in her steps.
"I'm sorry Ms. Haewon but only authorized people are allowed here."
Yeonjun stood his ground as he took a sip from his drink. Feeling confident by herself, she chuckled and smiled towards the guy.
"Oh didn't Y/n Mention? I'm his girlfriend."
Yeonjun spit out his drink to his side, surprised by Haewon's unexpected allegation. Haewon's eyes widened as the liquid sprayed their Cheif, who happened to overhear her arrival. Yeonjun apologized promptly to the chief.
"I'm so sorry chief!"
The chief, bathed in Yeonjun's drink, simply waved his hand dismissively, more interested with what transpired between your journeys and how you managed to capture the heart of one of Oh Haewon's
"I don't mind it Yeonjun. I'm more intrigued on how Y/n managed to captivate ms. Haewon here."
Despite the uproar in the office, Haewon realized she had just caused a storm and a misunderstanding, but this was the only way to assist you. She was prepared to take the punishment she would receive later, but just now she didn't care.
"Whatever will be, will be."
She thought to herself. But her vision saw an empty seat with your name on it. It piqued her interest seeing your absence.
"Umm.. Where's Y/n?"
"Ah, He's Apparently sick. Probably got caught by the rain yesterday."
Yeonjun spoke as he cleaned up the mess he had caused on the floor. This quickly put Haewon into full worry mode. Despite her self-proclaimed status as your girlfriend, she has no idea where you live. But with her front face, she took a big breath and inquired about your location.
"Yeonjun-ssi, do you know where he lives? I wanna take care of him"
Hanni's bold statement made Yeonjun stop and have his eyes widened in surprise. He was about to say your address when an Idea popped into his head. He smirked as he stood up and laid out his plan. Haewon chuckled and agreed on the plan of Yeonjun.
Today was the worst day for you. Not only did you become sick, but you also don't know where you put your final report, which damaged your chances of moving up in the firm. Your heart was broken, and nothing will change your frown right now. Everything was going so beautifully for Haewon, but everything else was falling apart.
"I hate my life..."
You grumbled as you laid in your bed, thinking about what you should do next. Your phone rang, and it was a message from Yeonjun informing you that he had arrived at your door with food and beer. Yeonjun knew you were ill and tried to cheer you up. With a heavy feeling and a weak body, you stood up and approached the door, opening it.
"Thanks Yeon-"
"Gosh you look horrible. Let's fix that shall we. Hehe~"
A familiar female voice made you look down and saw the girl that captured your heart. Her bright smile was still on her face despite the rain that was pouring on your surroundings.
"H-Haewon what are you-"
"Ummm Yeonjun Apparently can't come cause he was dragged to a blind date, So here I am. I brought chicken and medicine."
You noticed the heavy bag she carried and you felt bad that a small girl like her had to carry such a bag. You reached down to help her but Haewon shook her head.
"It's fine Y/n. I'm a strong woman, I have muscles on my arms. So, Umm... Can I come in?"
You snapped out of your stupor and allowed Haewon to enter your apartment. Your apartment wasn't too huge or little. It was large enough to accommodate at least four people, and Haewon made herself at home. She hurriedly got out the chicken and soup she had bought earlier for you. Yeonjun's strategy was easy. Yeonjun would message you that he was going to visit you, but it was actually Haewon who came to you.
"Haewon I can help you-"
"Just stay in bed Y/n. Don't overwork yourself, cause today, you'll be taken care by the great NMIXX Leader, Oh Haewon. So feel blessed. I just don't do this to anyone you know.....except you"
She mumbled the final part so you couldn't hear it. You lay back in your bedroom, wondering how Haewon knew about your condition, but there was a bigger problem at hand: it was your first time having a lady around, and you had no idea what to do. You began to overthink what to do, which just exacerbated your headache.
"Heyy~ can you sit up Y/n? I got you food."
Listening to her command, You sat up as Haewon setup the small foldable table on your bed. Her bright energy and smile really makes all your problems disappear.
"You don't have to move Y/n. Imma feed you."
You blushed at her words, wanting to decline her offer. But her bright and exuberant enthusiasm was too much to pass up, and she was offering after all. It isn't like you told her to do it. So you simply nodded your head as Haewon began feeding you. She took a spoon of the soup she had bought earlier and gave it a few blows with her mouth. Your eyes landed on her lips, which caused your heart to beat.
"Say Ahhh~"
You opened your mouth as Haewon gave you a spoonful of the soup and you were surprised by how delicious it tasted.
"Oh wow, Haewon this is delicious."
Haewon giggled, and the sound made you grin. Haewon began feeding you while also telling you fascinating stories that never fail to make you laugh. Haewon was never boring to be around, but what about you? You're a boring guy in general. So it was a miracle that your fate became intertwined with Haewons.
"By the way Y/n."
"Yeah?"
"You left your report yesterday on our practice room. So I gave it to your chief this morning along with Yeonjun-ssi. He's a nice guy."
You felt at rest after hearing what Haewon said because Haewon had solved your biggest concern. Honestly, you began to wonder how you deserved someone like Haewon. But suddenly a thought occurred in your head.
"Wait, the office isn't allowing anyone to enter. You need permission from me to enter."
Haewon gulped as she knows that she has to confess everything starting from the time she fell for you. If fate once gave her an opportunity to confess before, today was her last chance to admit her feelings. It was now or never for Haewon as she took a deep breath.
"Umm well you see....please don't get mad at me okay?"
You can tell Haewon was trying to hide something as her bright energy was nowhere to be seen and her eyes were looking down trying to avoid your gaze.
"I.....I…."
"You what?"
Haewon had the words on her mind, but her body was hesitant to say them. Those are the words she wants to say. She was uneasy about expressing those things, but then she remembered her life motto. "Whatever will be, will be" . She simply decided to speak it, not caring about the ramifications in the future.
"I told them that I'm your.... Girlfriend...."
For a little period of time, the world seemed to stand still. Hearing the final word she said made you go back to the first time you met Haewon. Was fate actually making arrangements just for you at this moment? Or was it just a coincidence that everything came together at this exact moment?
Haewon began to feel trapped by the quiet, and tears began to rise up in her eyes. She understands that betting on fate can be risky, and today she would pay the price.
"I-I'm sorry. I-I'll get going no-"
You pulled Haewon to your embrace. This time, it was you who held her like it was the last day on earth as you didn't want to let her go.
Who cares if faith played a part of all of this or if fate has more problems for you to face in the future.
"Whatever Happens, Happens."
Haewon widened her eyes when you said those words. She couldn't help but hug you back tightly.
"I don't care what happens in the future, Haewon. But right now, all I care is what is happening now. I wanna focus on the present as the future can wait. All I want is this. For you to be in my arms. Call me selfish but I just want you in my arms right now Haewon. I have fallen too much for you that I can't let you-"
Haewon pulled away from you with tears streaming down on her face. Her bright smile has appeared as she said
"Que sera sera. I love you too Y/n."
She leaned forward, bridging the gap between you two as her lips pressed against yours. Regardless of the soup and chicken sauce on your lips, Haewon kissed you with love and passion. Haewon began to chuckle as you kissed her forehead, and both of you pulled away.
"I love you Haewon."
"I love you more than myself Y/n."
She hugged you tight as both of you were clinging to each other on your bed as a realization hit your thoughts.
"Umm, You might get sick Haewon. You should-"
"Stay and cuddle you? Absolutely."
You chuckled at her comment. Your monotonous life was about to change because Haewon had won your heart. From one-sided love to meeting her crying, then meeting her again, and now she's holding you in your bed. It was certainly an exciting journey, but from now on. You are aware that your relationship will endure numerous challenges that will separate you from one another. The route will not be simple for either of you, but no matter what happens in the future, you will always stay true to your moto.
