"There's something about a house of God that washes a wave of serenity over me, with the exception being today. In comparison... I feel dirty."
MC looked at V from the corner of her eye. She feigned ignorance to what his words really meant and responded as if he didn’t make another self-deprecating comment. "It's been quite a while for me as well." Her eyes took in the simple wooden cross that hung center stage. The white walls around it were bare, but the dark beams above and surrounding framed it just so it beckoned all hearts.
"A part of me cannot help but feel this is God's punishment for secular pride and arrogance... It was foolish of me to believe I could change someone on my own. A beggar is only as good as the calluses on their hands."
"Hindsight is twenty-twenty... you loved her, V."
"Did I?”
Excerpt from: Chasing for the Clouds on Ao3
As promised, just something small from the new chapter. Still angsty but we're getting there!
I want ‘When the Day Met the Night’ by Panic! at the Disco to be my MCXV song, but at the same time the reference to the Sun and Moon hits a little bit too close to home if you know what I mean.
MC stood nervous in front of the door trying to figure out if she actually wanted to go inside the classroom or not. If her new friend had told her correctly this was the room for the newspaper club; she hoped it was. It was her first year and she had been excited at the idea of being part of it just like she had been in her other school where she had been responsible for some of the paper’s most popular columns. It had been a surprise for her when she found out that this school didn’t use a printed media and had more of a team that ran a blog for the students.
She took a deep breath before knocking the door a few times making sure the sound would be audible for anyone that was at the other side. She knocked once again just to make sure no one was at the other side. She was already starting to give up when she couldn’t even hear a single sound coming from the inside of the room when the door opened revealing a masculine figure with messy mint blue hair that made her wonder if the color was actually natural or if he was someone just privileged enough to be able to go past the school dressing code.
-Hello- he said, a soft smile adorned his features as he stepped aside allowing the fifteen year old to come inside. -Sorry I didn’t opened the door before, the computer was having some issues and I wanted to make sure the pictures were uploaded correctly- he was quick to apologize himself and MC took a few more seconds to appreciate the warmness of his voice.
-It’s okay, I wasn’t in a hurry anyway- she lied unable to bring herself to tell him she was about to leave, not when he appeared to be such a nice person.
-Good,-he smiled once again, MC felt her knees go weak -Then, how can I help you? - he pulled a chair to allow her to sit as he repeated the action himself to sit in front of her.
-I was wondering if you could need some help, I’m sort of new but I worked in my old school’s newspaper and I wanted to see if I could help here as well- She begun playing with her fingers in a sudden act of nervousness, guys that cute usually weren’t in the newspaper team in her school and when they were they usually tended to be hipsters with a Polaroid between their hands that judged everyone that wanted to use something new that didn’t have the staple of a bitten apple in it. MC hoped the guy in front of her wasn’t one of those guys.
-Do you want to be a part of the school’s blog? - he asked wide eyed, genuine surprise in his voice as he spoke.
-Yes- she admitted -Is there any problem?-she asked curious wondering if maybe they already had too many members.
-No- he laughed -You come as a blessing actually, I had been working on it alone technically, since a lot of the members graduated last year and I convinced my girlfriend to be here but she was a part during a few months and then left for the cheerleaders because she considered it boring- he explained fidgeting with the camera between his fingers, MC felt disappointed at the idea he had a girlfriend but it was obvious once she thought about it, guys like that usually weren’t single.
-Well, it’s her loss- MC shrugged and he let out a laugh
-If you like to think that way I guess it is- he agreed putting the camera in front of his eye and taking a picture of the girl that blinked when she felt the flash fill her sight.
-What was that? - she asked rubbing her eyes to adjust them at the sudden change of light.
-Sorry, I should have warned you before- he apologized once again -It’s a tradition, any new member gets a photo and it goes to the album, although if you want to I can show it to you so you tell me if you like it or you would rather use another one- he explained passing his camera to her. She took a few seconds to look at the device before wondering through the gallery until she found her own photo. It amazed her the wonder that boy had made with the camera, she wasn’t a photogenic person by any means (heck, she could count with her two hands the amount of pictures she actually had looked well and half of those were childhood photos) but somehow V made her look good, a tiny smile adorned her features a she looked at him.
-It’s fine, we can use that one- she said handing him the camera back -but you have to give me a copy, I want to show my family that I can look well in a photo-
-Alright- V mumbled between short laughs as he hung his camera around his neck once more -I’m Jihyun by the way, but everyone calls me V- he said extending a hand that she shook
-I’m MC- the girl said holding her hand and letting it go rather quickly.
-So, MC you will handle the writing part if that’s okay with you, if not I can give you whatever you want to do-
-Writing is perfect- she confessed, she was bad with the camera but her writing was something she was proud of, it had even granted her a few awards.
-Great- she could hear his sigh of relief knowing he probably just liked to stick behind the camera and that it might had been difficult for him to run everything on his own for God knows how long.
-Then I’ll tell you anything we need to cover and I’ll go with you to take the pictures then we will put everything together here. If there’s anything you’d like to add just tell me and we’ll cover it- he smiled warmly and she nodded enthusiast already excited that she became part of it easier than she had intended. -So we’ll reunite here tomorrow and I’ll teach you the basics of the blog, it’s going to be a pleasure working with you MC- he winked, she was speechless, a thousand of incoherent thoughts formed in her head, awaiting to go out and give the mint boy a response to his kindness.
-Hello!- a girly voice took her out of her train of thoughts as she observed how V features lifted and she turned finding herself with a girl slightly shorter than her with long wavy blonde hair and a cheerleader uniform. She walked past MC and V greeted her with open arms pressing a kiss against her forehead.
-Hello my sun- V greeted her back putting a hand over her shoulder.
-Who is her?- the girl asked, a smile wide in her face but MC could feel her eyes analyzing every aspect of her being from her hair to her choice of clothes and the idea made her uncomfortable
-Sorry- V apologized, MC had to remind herself once she was friends with the guy to tell him that he didn’t have to apologize for everything -MC this is my girlfriend Rika, Rika this is MC the new club member- he introduced them, MC waved at Rika as she repeated the action the same smile still plastered across her face
-It’s pleasure to meet you-Rika greeted; her voice still echoed in MC’s ears -I’m glad someone is here to help my love with the blog- she spoke clinging to V’s arm pressing herself closer to him. MC felt uncomfortable with the action, as if she had arrived in a bad moment.
-Don’t worry I’ll help with everything I can- MC dismissed adjusting her bag -I have to go, pleasure meeting you both, see you tomorrow V- she waved goodbye at both of them holding her backpack close as she exited through the door.
-.-.-.-..-..-…-.-.-.
-So did you already met V?- MC’s friend Leah asked with a curious glance at her as she took her sit besides MC for the math class carefully placing her calculator right in front of her.
-I did, yesterday-MC admitted, a soft smile on her face as she nodded.
-And how did it go? - Leah continued prying even more on the topic.
-Pretty good actually I agreed with him about meeting today-
-I’m happy for you, V is pretty popular in school, he is cool and completely laid back, I don’t think anyone has seen him angry- Leah said with her materials out of her bag waiting for the professor.
-Yeah, he seemed pretty cool, I even met his girlfriend- MC continued telling her friend
-Oh, you mean Rika- said Leah
-Yeah her- MC said –Is there anything you can tell me about her? - Leah eyed MC curious with an eyebrow raised at the sudden interest in the blonde girl
-Well, she and V had been together for three years I think, I don’t have the exact date- Leah shrugged –She is a cheerleader and one of the favorites for becoming this year’s captain, she is in the same grade as V, it’s part of a trillion charities, has never failed one subject and she’s Yoosung Kim’s cousin- Leah finished, MC stared at her confused –Sorry, I forgot you’re new, he’s the boy at the front of the class the brunette one - she pointed at the front where MC quickly located the boy, by the way his head moved it seemed like he was about to fall asleep at any minute. It was then when the teacher entered the classroom and the boy bolted into his seat like if he hadn’t been about to fall asleep in the first place, this earned a chuckle on MC’s part.
The day couldn’t go fast enough for MC who was counting every minute until it was time to go to reunite with V; she waved a quick goodbye to her friend before making her way towards the club. The school hallways didn’t gave the almost threatening vibe that they gave when she first entered as her nervousness took over her, now they simply were plain and dull school hallways and MC liked that.
It took her less than she had expected, it was probably related to the fact that she didn’t have to wonder around anymore to find the classroom. She took a few playful steps until she was at the front of the door. MC opened it careful trying not to interrupt V with anything if he was already inside. She looked around finding V looking at the computer over a boy with bright red hair who seemed to be extremely focused on whatever the screen was showing. MC muttered a soft nervous hello at the unfamiliar presence, both men turned around at the sound of her voice.
-Welcome MC- V was the first one to greet and after that the boy’s neutral expression turned into a big smile
-Hellow!- the red haired greeted, his voice was loud and cheerful combining with his gleeful face
-MC he is Luciel- V introduced, MC dropped the schoolbag at the floor getting closer to see what the both of them were doing.
-V was talking to me about you!- Luciel countered leaving a set of headphones that were hanging from his neck next to the computer to turn to MC and give her a hug -I’m glad he has someone to help him besides me-
-You told me you were the only member of the club- MC signaled at V looking at him curious; he gave her a sheepish smile rubbing the back of his head
-I am- V confirmed, -Luciel is in the computer club but he helps with the page-
-Yup! - Luciel nodded enthusiastically
-Alright then- MC raised an eyebrow but a smile adorned her face entertained with the enthusiasm that the redhead seemed to be so natural at. –What are you doing here?- MC wondered since she couldn’t think of anything that could require someone from the computer club
-The page stopped working yesterday, so I’m here to fix the issue- Luciel spoke before giving V a chance to answer himself –Has she met the rest?- The redhead asked
-Oh no, she hasn’t, she has met Rika already, I want to be sure she will be comfortable enough to meet the rest of them- V said as Luciel nodded in understanding setting himself to finish the problem he was called to solve.
-The rest of them? - MC asked curious
-Yeah, they are like investigators, they help me find out what’s going to happen and when it’s going to happen and if it affect the school’s student body- V admitted –They aren’t part of the school’s page but still they are very helpful, since you are new member, could you give me your phone number please? So I can add you to the group- MC pulled a piece of paper out of her notebook handing him her phone number; he smiled as he started to keep it in his cell phone.
-Ready, you should get a notification soon- he said smiling as he looked up from his phone putting it once more in his pocket–now I need you to help me, we are going to go to the season’s first competition, and it’s this Saturday. There you will meet everyone and you will write who wins and all the details. Are you okay about it? - He asked to see if she had any plan to take care of beforehand
-You ask like if I had a social life- she joked turning on her phone and seeing the notification shinning at the top indicating she was part now of their group
-I like her- Luciel laughed. MC opened the notification to greet a quick hello and introducing herself to the group before they began asking who the new member was.
-Alright, what time are we meeting? - MC asked staring at V as he pressed one long finger over his lips in a thoughtful manner,
-We will meet at Saturday at six o’clock, an hour before the game begins so we can interview the players from both teams, how does that sound?- he asked
-That sounds good for me!-
-If you don’t mind, our meetings have always been Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, this Tuesday was a particular case since you are new, I hope this is okay with you-
-No problem- she said shaking her hand side to side, -Then is it okay if I leave, or do you need me for something else?- she asked looking between V and Luciel, V shook his head from side to side and MC let out a relieved sigh
-Alright, then I’m going to go! Good bye V, it was nice to meet you Luciel- She screamed as she excited through the door.
A month had barely passed and she got to meet all of the members in the chat, all of them were quite peculiar in aspects of personality but still lovely people,
Jumin was on the same grade as V, he was going to study business in college and his father was LOADED, in Luciel’s words, he could cover the school hallways in money and it wouldn’t be a great loss for him. He had a beautiful white cat named Elizabeth the 3rd, he was quite serious but a good friend.
Luciel was a grade above her and most of the time he sent memes on rare occasions he disappeared for a couple days before sending a meme marking he was okay, apparently no one questioned it.
Jaehee was Jumin’s “assistant”, she worked in Jumin’s father company in the afternoons and studied hard to get to a good college with a scholarship, the poor girl deserved a break more than anyone MC knew.
Yoosung was in the same grade as her, he was a really sweet boy, truly innocent and victim of Luciel’s pranks more often than he would like to admit, he had commented about dying his hair blonde; she did homework with him a couple times and he was really smart.
Zen wasn’t the best in school, and he had said more than once that he was only there because his mother made sure to drop him and pick him up every day, he was apparently in the theater club, and he was really handsome.
Saeran was Luciel’s twin brother and they were identical to the point that the only way to differentiate them was because Luciel wore glasses and Saeran didn’t. He was quieter than most of them, therefore she didn’t know a lot about him.
V was the first one MC had met, and it was impossible not to feel attracted to him, he was really sweet, handsome, an absolute treasure of human being too precious. He was always calm and smiling staying away from fights and amazing at photograph, he only had one inconvenient.
Rika.
She was V’s girlfriend and the only person that seemed to hold a personal grudge against MC although she appeared to be the only one who noticed. Not to mention that she seemed to drag V alongside every decision she took, and he was too kind of a soul or perhaps loved her too much. Either way, MC couldn’t believe she was the only one that noticed how their relationship lingered towards abuse.
Now was one of those days were MC was in particular inpatient mood, Jumin’s birthday party was going to be next Friday night and so far he had invited everyone in the group but MC had chosen not to go unless he asked her personally but V seemed to be particularly excited about it, since it would be the last birthday they spent together.
They were hanging in the club’s room talking about the plans for the party, what they would wear and what they should prepare for, V seemed pretty excited until Rika’s voice sounded.
-We can’t make it - Rika said hanging from V’s arm, MC saw Jumin’s face fall at the idea that his best friend wouldn’t be able to make it at his birthday party –I have practice until five because of the competition on Saturday and we have a dinner with my parents-
-I’m sure you can make some time- Zen spoke feeling genuinely bad for Jumin for the first time since he met them -Perhaps after having dinner with Rika’s parent-
-No, we can’t- Rika was quick to answer, almost as if she didn’t even had the need to meditate the answer
-I understand- Jumin nodded even if his face seemed like he was trying to suppress a frown -Have good luck Rika- out of the corner of her eye MC could see V visibly uncomfortable with the situation, he had spoke so excitedly about going to Jumin’s party and now he couldn’t, that made MC’s blood boil giving her the courage to say something that she had been intending to say for a long time
-Okay, that’s it-
Everyone’s faces turned to the origin of the voice surprised by the choice of words
-Can’t you see it?-MC pleaded directing her words at everyone but looking at V in the eye -She’s using you, all of you! And she treats V awfully, how can you not realize that!?-
-Rika would never do such a thing- Yoosung was the first one to speak, MC had expected something like that would happen, Yoosung wouldn’t think his cousin did anything bad and she couldn’t blame him, family always had the benefit of the doubt.
-She has been doing it! - MC tried once more watching every single one of their reactions how they stared at her rather uncomfortable with the situation -She has been doing it this entire time, she uses V to give herself a boost in popularity and treats him awfully, Always tells him what to do, lies to him, controls every single aspect of his life, How can none of you recognize an abusive relationship right in front of your eyes!?- They looked between each other without knowing how they should react to MC’s sudden burst.
-MC, you need to calm down- V walked towards her, extending his hand perhaps to pat her back, perhaps in an attempt to calm her, either way for every step V gave towards her she took one backwards, he had to know the truth.
-Maybe- She concealed -But that doesn’t stop the fact that what I say it’s true-
-MC, stop saying such nonsense- Always trust Jumin to be brutally honest -If you dislike Rika say so openly, there’s no need to make such a drama out of it-
MC opened her mouth to counter Jumin’s arguments, if only Rika’s voice hadn’t made a sound
-No need to be so harsh Jumin- Rika said almost in a pleading voice that made MC’s heart turn -I’m sure this is a misunderstanding, Why don’t you leave us alone and we’ll settle this- Even if she wasn’t facing her, MC could see Rika’s smile make its way to her mouth.
One by one everyone including V nodded and left the clubroom leaving MC and Rika behind convinced that MC must had interpreted something wrong, Rika would be incapable of doing anything out of selfish reasons especially mistreat V. Rika simply wouldn’t do it. MC waited until the door closed behind Zen to finally ask Rika what she wanted to talk about, MC was ready to stand her ground. Rika turned herself to the other girl a smile still on her face but her eyes were rabid with anger
-You think you can come here, be the sweet little innocent new girl and destroy everything I’ve built just because you’ve fallen for Jihyun?- Rika stood in front of her, pointing at her with her index finger and another hand closed in a fist besides her
-I don’t…
-Don’t think I’m stupid- Rika interrupted mocking MC –I know how you look at him, what do you see in him? Was it that he’s handsome, rich, perhaps the artistic vibe? - The blonde mocked. MC wouldn’t take her eyes away from her; she would not give her the luxury to think that she had intimidated, but she couldn’t stop her cheeks from burning bright red.
-Why?- MC asked, standing her ground.
-You have no idea you much I want to get out of this shithole, stay away from that bitch I live with, I met him by accident but he quickly became my out ticket, if I keep him by my side I practically secure a place as the head cheerleader and I get a scholarship in an university as far from here as possible-
-V doesn’t deserve to be threaded like that- MC countered
-Even if he didn’t, I didn’t deserve to be given in adoption to crazy woman who does nothing to actually take care of me- Rika shrugged –Either way, if you continue like this or tell anything I told you to anyone I will make sure you will be out of the club, that things will be so bad for you that you’ll have to switch schools. I hope I am clear- Rika said as she turned her back to MC and left the classroom closing the door behind her.
MC wanted to scream she didn’t give a fuck about what she could do but who knew how things could get for the rest of them if she was not around even if she was essentially useless. She stood there frozen for a few seconds before the door opened once more with Luciel coming from behind it holding the doorknob nervously
-Sorry, I forgot my laptop- Turning to her left, it was only then when she noticed Luciel’s laptop in there still open.
-Take it- MC said as she grabbed her backpack –I was about to leave anyways, have a nice weekend Luciel, say hello to Saeran for me-
-I will, you too MC- even after she closed the door behind her she knew there was no way it was going to be a good weekend, but it still held the warranty she wouldn’t have to face V or anyone else for two days.
By the time Monday had arrived MC felt dreadful at the pit of her stomach as she got up from her bed knowing she and V had their mandatory Monday club reunion so she got up from the bed not even with the mood to pretend she was sick.
Leah greeted her as soon as she stepped inside her biology class she had a shocked expression all over her face and hurried MC to take the seat besides her. MC raised an eyebrow in curiosity at her friend’s demeanor. She slowly settled on her seat eyeing Leah quizzically noticing Leah’s usually tied up her was now loose
-Oh you let you hair down; you look good- MC complimented
-I know I look good, I always do. But that not what’s important right now. V broke up with Rika- Leah confessed, MC looked at her with her mouth and eyes wide open
-What are you saying? - She asked, doubting Leah was telling the truth, it was too good to be true
-Like you heard, no one knows why though, it’s a shame they’ve been together for so long- Leah muttered as MC tried to contain the thousands emotions flowing inside her while the doubt tried to settle in her mind, unable to believe it was even true.
The day passed without an inconvenience and MC never saw Rika anywhere around the hallways as she changed from class to class. By the time it was time to go to the club MC had already known what she was going to ask V. AS she opened the door, she found V leaning over a couple of photographs comparing them side by side. His face lifted at the sound of the door being opened and a soft smile covered his face
-Hello MC; how was your weekend? - He greeted, MC left her bag on the floor and walked towards him looking at both pictures, one had a picture of the city, the other had a picture of a kid smiling at the carnival.
-Nothing memorable in it, how about you?-
-Could have been better- V admitted sheepishly, MC nodded
-I heard what happened with Rika, I’m sorry-
-Don’t be-V dismissed –It’s not your fault at all, sometimes people aren’t what they say they are- V explained, MC stared at him knowing what was behind those words
-Still you loved her- MC patted his back sympathetically, no matter how awful a person could be, cutting ties with someone you love was always difficult –What are you doing?- MC leaned over the photos
-I’ve been thinking about applying to a photography college in Paris, and for that I have to have a portfolio, so I’m selecting a few photographs to see how it goes.-
-Isn’t a bit too early? October has just started-
-I know- V laughed turning his gaze away from the photos,
-Then, Are you going to go to Jumin’s party on Friday? You sounded really happy to go-
-I will- V said –How about you?-
-Well, he hasn’t invited me and I can’t appear at a party uninvited, that would be rude- MC explained walking towards her bag and rummaging through it until she pulled out an USB and handed it to V
-Are you sure Jumin hasn’t invited you? - V asked taking the flash drive from MC’s fingers; he already knew it was the article about the school’s dress code and its unfairness
-One hundred percent- MC nodded and V stared at her apologetically –Don’t look at me like that, he doesn’t know me that well, and didn’t he said it was going to be with his closest friends? That means you, Zen, Yoosung, Jaehee, Luciel and Saeran and Rika of course- she said
-Then come with me- V invited putting the document in the computer to edit it and add the pictures so it would be uploaded that afternoon –You can be my plus one, I’m sure Jumin will put no objection-
-V I’m not sure…
-Jumin doesn’t hate you MC he’s just a little hard headed and logical but he’s a good person he won’t oppose if you go. That is, unless you don’t want to go then that’s completely fine.-
-I’d me honored to go as your plus one V- MC said and her heart melted at the bright smile V shot her –Now for this week’s article we will need to go to the cheerleader’s competition on the Saturday but we could cover the student’s art exposure on Wednesday- he explained
-I was beginning to think you wouldn’t mention it- She joked as she took a notebook out of her bag and started scribbling ideas on how both of those articles should be written.
Somehow she noted him more relaxed around her, letting her write on her own but still checking how it was going. They started to talk as they worked getting to know each other more than they already did. MC wondered if the reason V used to be so reserved was somehow related to Rika’s grip around him. She wouldn’t be surprised if it was so she was glad he was being himself, he was still a bit shy but she figured that was simply a trait of his personality and not something Rika related.
-See you on Wednesday!- V waved goodbye as soon as they both decided it was enough for the day
-See you! - She answered as she closed the door behind herself. She was unwilling to admit that Rika had been right although for the wrong reasons, she had fallen in love with V. She loved his kindness, his shyness, the way he directed himself towards everyone never rising himself on top of them. If Rika was unable to see it she could go and fuck herself.
She would have a lot of time for that now that he was single.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
The entire week had passed without any mishaps and the Art exhibition had been a delight to see, her school was full of talented people that conveyed their emotions over every painting. V took photographs at every single painter alongside their works, some were shy, V convinced those using kind words and pointing out the positive of their works until they felt confident enough for the picture to be taken. MC took special care in interviewing them trying to not ask two of them the same question so she could get different perspectives on what had inspired them, some was love, and others was pain. One guy told them his story with anorexia and how he had progressed thanks to therapy; his best work was one that reflected that struggle.
MC paid attention at how V spoke to her about his interpretation on every work and the techniques the artists used in order to give their best at their work, when asked why he knew that much about art even though he was a photographer he shrugged and responded
-I found a passion in photography when I was eight, but my father is a painter so he was always talking about techniques, it just stuck with me- There was a nostalgic vibe to his words and MC didn’t push more in the subject, but she felt glad that she got to know him a little more.
Yet, that mattered little now that she was pacing in her bedroom video calling Jaehee in a mental mess with all her clothes scattered across the floor trying to find something appropriate to wear to Jumin’s party. So far she had three possible dresses: one for parties, another for semi-formal parties and one she used to joke with her sister that was an Oscar gala worthy one.
Now she wasn’t that sure.
-I don’t know what to wear Jaehee- MC complained for what seemed to be the three hundredth time throwing herself to her bed –What kind of party is Jumin hosting?-
-Why don’t you ask V?- Jaehee asked, from someone else the question would have sounded rude, yet, Jaehee was genuinely curious and MC could see that
-I want to surprise him, I can’t send him the three dresses in photographs and say, “Hey which one would make me look hotter while still tuned with the party?” It doesn’t work like that Jaehee- Jaehee gigged at MC’s argument
-Fine, don’t you have something in between Oscars and Teen choice awards?- Jaehee asked –Something a little nicer that the one in the middle but less than our Oscar’s gala buddy- MC raised an eyebrow understanding Jaehee’s words and started rummaging through her closet once again wondering if she would find something like what Jaehee was talking about.
Her salvation came in the form of a knee length dark blue dress, MC didn’t remembered buying it, but it was obvious that MC was thinking about future MC.
-What do you think?- MC said holding the dress over herself, when Jaehee’s face lit up she knew she had found the one.
-Thank you for your help Jaehe, I seriously don’t know what I would do without you. See you at the party!- As soon as Jaehee said goodbye MC disconnected herself to get ready as fast as she could.
It was around seven when V arrived to pick her up and by that time MC was ready, she was grateful at her mother for helping her with her makeup otherwise she would still be struggling to put her eyeliner on.
Both of them were on V’s car on their way to Jumin’s party and MC was sinking in the copilot seat filled with embarrassment
-I’m sorry my mom was like that- She apologized, still she felt like it wasn’t enough.
-It was nothing, she is a good woman- V laughed dismissing the fact that MC’s mom had pinched his cheeks as soon as he had arrived and started to speak about how beautiful her grandkids were going to be.
-She is, she just has a natural talent at embarrassing me, you should have seen her with my first boyfriend- MC begun taking V’s silence as a clue to continue –When he arrived to meet her she looked at him up and down said “I don’t like you” and closed the door in his face-
-You’re kidding-V laughed without taking his eyes off the road knowing how close they were to Jumin’s house
-I wish I was- MC muttered as she felt the car stopping slowly so they could get down. V parked the car inside the house; she felt she should have guessed it would happen since he was Jumin’s best friend; still, the size of the house amazed her.
V made sure to open the door for her before giving MC any time to protest against it, at least it gave her a more open sight of the garden and she was able to admire the beauty out of every portion of the place.
-This is beautiful- She gasped as she started to walk alongside V who moved like if he was on his own house already
-It is- he confirmed –And you look amazing as well- the compliment made MC’s cheeks burn in a red shade.
-Jaehee helped me a little too much- She admitted as he smiled at her.
As they entered inside the house they were greeted by waiters that welcomed them, MC stepped careful on the floor trying to not make at fool out of herself
-By the way- V began looking for Jumin amongst the crowd, -Jumin’s dad friends can be quite critical I hope their words don’t affect you- He explained and MC looked at herself up and down sure that she was alright.
-I’ll be good- she admitted without a hint of modesty in her words –Do you think Jumin will like the cat watch I bought him?- She asked taking the small box out of her purse and showing it to V who couldn’t stifle a laugh
-I’m sure he’ll love it- he assured and MC smiled proud at her accomplishment
-Speaking of which, I think he’s over there- she said signaling at Zen that seemed to be arguing quite passionately with someone, both of them nodded knowing there was only one person Zen argued like that with.
They began to walk towards their friends as a Jazz piece blasted across the room, for some reason MC always pictured Jumin would be a closet Rock fan, but then again, the music could be more Jumin’s father work and his own.
-Happy Birthday Jumin!- MC congratulated before V handing him the gift she had brought
-Thank you- Jumin said staring at the purple box with curiosity not expecting a gift from her, considering the hard words he had used towards her the last time they saw each other.
-Happy Birthday- V came next –Sorry for the delay, I had to pick MC- V justified, and MC smiled sheepish feeling slightly uncomfortable at the fact that now everyone’s eyes were on her.
There were more adults than people their own age group at the party excepting a few kids that had been dragged by their families that didn’t seem to get along with Jumin at all. In Jumin’s words, the people that he cared about were there and that was all that mattered.
MC took no time in dragging V to the dance floor with her despite his protests at his own lack of dancing coordination that she dismissed as nonsense. After her came Zen that decided it was time for Jaehee to have some fun, after them came Luciel who had dragged Yoosung with him saying that they would need to make their relationship stronger to what Yoosung had fought that they weren’t in a relationship. The fact that Yoosung had ended up sitting as far away from Luciel as possible made it something quite fun to behold.
When the clock marked the 1 in the morning MC knew it was time for her to leave, because if she arrived too late her mother would make her curfew shorter so with quick goodbyes she left the party with V who promised to come back after he dropped her at her home.
The road back was filled with music from V’s car radio and laughs recalling their experiences in the place. It took them a short time to arrive at MC’s home. He accompanied her to the door.
-Thank you V, I had a great time- She said opening the house’s door with her key as he stood behind her
-Me too, thanks to you MC, see you on Monday- He said a smile across his face, for some reason he looked quite melancholic.
-Until then- she nodded feeling the blush on her cheeks as she closed the door behind herself battling with the feelings in her chest.
The time passed faster than MC would have wished and before she knew it was May, the end of the school year felt closer with every step she gave now that she was on her way to the school’s blog club where she was going to the only member as soon as the school year finished. She was surprised when she entered the club’s room and Jumin was inside sitting in one of the chairs fidgeting with his phone trying to avoid boredom, she was glad to get along with him better, but still seeing him in the clubroom wasn’t something that happened more often than before.
-Hello Jumin- MC said as she dropped her bag on the floor taking a seat next to him
-Good afternoon MC- he said in response locking his phone and turned his sight to the girl that took a bag of chips out of her backpack and offered some to Jumin who declined
-What are you doing here?- she asked unwilling to hide her surprise at seeing him in the room but still smiling at her friend
-V told me to come but apparently I arrived early because it was empty- Jumin explained, his lips twitched in a soft almost invisible smile.
-V didn’t told me anything about a new article- MC mumbled, then V entered through the door holding his schoolbag close with his hair ruffled while he stood still for a few seconds trying to get his air back, it was hard looking at him when he looked that cute.
-Sorry for the delay- he said as he got closer to the table taking a chair and Jumin and MC repeated the action settling himself besides his friend while MC took a seat in front of both guys
-What happened? - Jumin was the first one to speak after his friend settled himself.
-Nothing important, I had to finish an assignment- V dismissed as he looked through the schoolbag pulling out a white envelope from the inside, the blue haired teenager took a deep breath before showing it to his friends, a school’s logo was the first think that caught both teenager’s eyes since MC couldn’t even read the tiny black letters with V’s name and address on them
-V, is it…? - MC begun staring at the envelope wide eyed, Jumin saw it from up-close, smiling softly to himself like MC already knowing where it was from.
-It arrived this morning- V nodded, -my mother had a concert therefore she and my father had to leave last night, I couldn’t think of a better idea than opening it with both of you-
MC felt her heart her heart flutter at V’s words and soft nervous smile. She was special to V, or at least special enough to share such an important moment with him and his best friend.
-What are you waiting for then? - She asked excited -Open it!-
-I don’t need you to open it, I’m sure you qualified- Jumin stated smiling encouraging his friend letting him rug the paper until he pulled out the white letter from the inside scanning the words over it.
V could feel his heart beating fiercely in his chest waiting to reach to the point where a Yes or No could determine his entire future. His eyes suddenly opened in realization as Jumin’s smile widened leaving MC to stare at both of them, turning her sight from V to Jumin.
-You made it didn’t you? - MC asked as a soft smile started to settle itself down on her lips and her mind forgot momentarily about the fact that this was a confirmation that V would be leaving soon. Her mind was now filled with happiness as she rushed to his side and hugged him tightly.
-I knew you would make it!- she said pulling away to let Jumin congratulate his best friend.
-Congratulations V, no one deserves it more than you- Jumin congratulated hugging his friend.
-Thank you- V greeted embarrassed.
It wasn’t until then that it finally fell down under MC that in V’s hands laid a confirmation that he was leaving, not only from school but from the country as well. She wouldn’t see him again, yet, she had to be happy for him, getting your dreams come to live was a luxury not everyone could afford so she was glad the person she loved could, even if it meant stepping away from her.
The three of them settled on the fact that they would tell everyone and organize a party after the graduation to say goodbye not only to V but to Jumin as well who would be leaving to America to study business.
Everyone’s reaction was similar to MC’s and Jumin’s congratulating V. Luciel patted MC’s back in sympathy catching on the girl’s feelings knowing what it meant for her the fact that V had gotten his letter. She tried to ignore her own sadness, V’s happiness was better than having her weeping for a person who might not even feel the same way towards her.
V was leaving the day after the party and everyone was at the airport ready to say goodbye, Jumin would be leaving later that same day, so they would spend the entire of the day, or at least until Jumin left at the airport saying goodbye to their oldest members.
-You should tell him now- Luciel invited MC –There’s no loss in here- MC gave a sight listening to Luciel’s words knowing the truth behind them. If he didn’t like her she wouldn’t have to deal with uncomfortable gazes between her and the rest of them who might feel pity towards her.
When she gave him a goodbye hug, (the fourth already) she grabbed him by the hand and pulled him towards a place far enough from their friends so they wouldn’t listen to what she was about to say. MC faced him as she took a deep breath, she felt her knees go weak and her hands shake, she had to be strong, the doubt of what could have happened was something she didn’t want to live with.
-I want you to go and follow your dreams-MC began trying to tie together the next words she would use -But I need to tell you this before you go so I won’t have the thought wondering my mind when you get a French girlfriend, I like you V, I really do, you are simply wonderful, I truly couldn’t even dream about meeting a person like you, yet I did, I met you.- She closed her eyes letting each word fall on his ears while she waited for a response
-I was going to tell you the same thing and I was nervous about it,-V admitted and MC opened her eyes at the words that left his mouth, she was hopeful but now that she was listening to it she couldn’t believe it -I like you too MC- V said, MC stared at him dumbfounded as the words made echo in her heart, but it was stopped and no place for doubt was left when she felt V’s lips above her own, leaving no place for doubt,
Jihyun Kim liked her.
Slowly he pulled apart from her letting her taste the mint he had left behind, his face was red, but there was no way it could be as red as hers was.
-I should have asked if you were okay with it first, I apologize- he said, a soft blush covered his cheeks
-You don’t have to apologize for everything, especially not for this- She giggled grabbing both of his hands while their friends looked at them glad that MC had finally gathered the courage to tell V how she felt.
-Thank you for being part of my life MC, I would be honored if you wanted to be my girlfriend. - V smiled, MC nodded excited,
-It’s that even a question? - MC asked giving him another kiss in the lips standing out of his way so he could reach the plane he was supposed to arrive -I’ll miss you, I hope you have a good trip- she gave him a quick peck on the lips and he turned to his friends waving a quick goodbye and started to walk towards the plane.
It was nearly five in the afternoon when she finally got home after saying goodbye to Jumin. She took her cell phone out of her jean’s bag and sent a quick message to Leah letting her know that she had a boyfriend; even though she wasn’t connected at the moment MC knew that as soon as she was her friend could she would attack her with questions demanding details.
The messages from her friend started to arrive one by one claiming how lucky V and Jumin were although the reasons they thought that way were quite different. MC was laughing at the words her friends exchanged between each other until one particular message coming from Zen got her attention more than the others
“Man, V is so lucky. He’s going to Paris, the city of love and he will meet so many beautiful ladies, so jealous” MC read the message once more as her brain processed the thought. The idea of V meeting a French woman had crossed her mind but she stopped thinking aout it when he asked her to be his girlfriend; now the idea seemed to want to crawl in her thought process.
“I don’t think V cares about that thought” Jaehee was the first one to intertwine
“Agree, now he only has eyes for our lovely MC” continued Luciel
“Shit, I forgot sorry” Sent Zen, MC knew the sincerity of his apology but it didn’t stop the fact that the damage was already done and the strive of insecurity was trying to make a living spot in her mind
“Don’t worry Zen” she sent “Hey guys, I gotta go it’s been a long day, talk to you later” She locked her phone and turned on the TV to try to entertain herself somehow.
It was nearly three am when a message woke her up; she turned on the light besides her bed her eyes adjusting themselves at the sudden change of light, the first idea that crossed her mind was that it was a late night meme from Luciel, instead she read V’s name on the notifications.
“Sorry if I woke you up honey, I just arrived and I already miss you” he attached a picture of the Parisian landscape, it didn’t have the Eiffel tower nowhere near in sight but it was still beautifully breathtaking
“I miss you too” she sent back, and she knew they would be alright.
