“I need a time machine!” Sooyoung closed her notebook and threw her hands up in exasperation. She leaned against the back of the sofa and sighed. Normally, she would have class in the morning, but since it was final exam week she had free time to study. However, with a stitched up head and an aching body, it was hard for her to concentrate.

                  Yuri laughed. “It’s your fault for delaying this long to study. You procrastinator.” She was sitting on an armchair nearby, flipping through a fashion magazine.

                  “I’ve been occupied lately and in case you haven’t noticed, I’m heavily wounded.” Sooyoung frowned and tossed a cushion at Yuri. “Ugh, I’m screwed!” She groaned.

                  Yuri caught the cushion and started hugging it while she watched Sooyoung whine. “When is your first exam?”

                  Sooyoung touched the bandaged wound on her forehead before she answered. “Wednesday afternoon. The last one is Friday morning. I have five total.”

                  Yuri considered it for a moment and then nodded. “Yes. You’re screwed.” She laughed when Sooyoung gave her a mean look. “Is your head hurting? You’ve been touching it a lot.”

                  “Not really, but it’s itching and I don’t want to scratch it.” Sooyoung opened her notebook once more, only to be distracted by a chirp from her phone. She looked at the screen to see Jessica’s name at the top and her expression brightened immediately. It was a change that Yuri noticed.

                  “What?” Yuri was curious.

                  “Oh nothing.” Sooyoung shook her head and quickly replied to the text.

                  “It doesn’t look like nothing. Is it that girl?” Yuri asked what she already knew.

                  Sooyoung looked up when she finished sending the message. “She just wanted to know how I am doing.” She tried to sound casual, but she was starting to feel awkward once again.

                  “I see.” Yuri nodded and went back to her magazine. Sooyoung went back to looking at her notes.

                  Time passed by without regards to their feelings and eventually, afternoon turned to night. Yuri had fallen asleep half way through her magazine while Sooyoung focused on her notes, with the occasional texts to Jessica. When Sooyoung finally looked up, she watched the older woman sleep peacefully. It felt as if nothing has changed between them, yet in reality, everything had changed. They continued acting with their easygoing persona and ignored the burgeoning feelings in their hearts.

                  Sooyoung watched Yuri sleep and a sudden urge to cry filled her chest, making her nostrils flare and her eyes burn. She was selfishly holding the other woman back and it hurt her to hurt Yuri, but she would not wish for anything else. She studied the arch of Yuri’s brows and the soft glisten of the woman’s lips. She could not describe the knotted feeling in her stomach. As she was busy staring and thinking, Yuri’s eyes slowly opened and caught her stare.

                  “I fell asleep.” Yuri yawned and stretched.  “Did I miss anything?”

                  Sooyoung blushed. “Yea, you missed my lover, Brad Pitt. He came by riding on the last unicorn and asking me to marry him.” She replied with a little smile on her lips.

                  “Oh. I did not realize that I was competing with Brad Pitt, too.” Yuri rose and walked over to where Sooyoung was sitting. “Let’s get your dressing changed so you can become Mrs. Sooyoung Pitt.” The absurd sound of that name made them both laugh.

                  Yuri carefully unwrapped Sooyoung’s bandage while Sooyoung bashfully watched her. Sooyoung could smell the nice perfume that Yuri always wore. She stared at Yuri’s slightly parted lips and slowly part of her wanted to wrap her arms around the older woman and never let go. She did not do well in close proximity to Yuri.

                  “Ow.” Sooyoung winced when Yuri dabbed some disinfectant on her wound. It stung.

                  “Sorry, I’ll be more gentle.” Yuri smiled apologetically and continued to clean her wound.

                  It was nice to be taken care of and pampered by Yuri. Sooyoung rarely got that luxury, since she was usually the one doing the caring and pampering. “It’s okay.”

                  Yuri finished redressing Sooyoung’s wound and looked down to see orbs of brown staring at her. They became hypnotized by each other and before they knew it, their lips were already upon one another. It was a nice feeling, not like their usual fiery and passionate kisses. They took the time to enjoy the warm connection before their lips came apart with a soft ‘pop’ sound.

                  “…” Sooyoung felt the warmth slowly dissipate. She realized what they had done. It scared her more than if they had . She knew their bond was growing stronger. “I’m …”

                  “I’m not sorry.” Yuri wrapped up the wound care products. She did not want to hear a word of apology for what felt to be the only right thing in the world.

                  Sooyoung shook her head. “I’m … I’m just scared that I’m going to mess up and hurt … someone.”

                  “You’re going to hurt someone, regardless.” Yuri replied without missing a beat. “You’re hurting yourself, too.”

                  “I know, but I can bear it … I just don’t want to hurt either of you.”

                  “Don’t start with that nonsense, you’re going to hurt both of us if you drag this on. So get it over with and pick me, already.”

                  Sooyoung snorted while Yuri smirked. “I’m glad you still have your sense of humor.”

                  “I can always make you smile.”

                  “But you often made me cry, too.”

                  “I know.” Yuri nodded. “I’ll make up for all those times.” She rose from her seat and went into the kitchen. “What do you want for dinner?” She threw the used bandages into the trash.

                  “You pick.” Sooyoung put away her notes and grabbed the remote control. “I just want food!” She the TV and leaned back into relaxation mode. They did this all the time, brushing a serious conversation off with another topic.

                  “How about breakfast for dinner?” Yuri asked after she checked out the food in Sooyoung’s fridge. “You’ve got enough things for me to make omelets.”

                  Sooyoung smiled and gave the suggestion a thumb up. “I like omelets.”

                  “Alright, your Highness. Just sit back and relax.” Yuri grinned and started to remove the ingredients from the fridge. It was not long before she had a delicious aroma whiffing out of the kitchen.

                  Suddenly, the phone rang. There was a phone hanging in the kitchen, but there was also one on the end table next to Sooyoung. Yuri looked up to find Sooyoung staring expectantly at her. She rolled her eyes and grabbed the phone in one hand while flipping the omelet in the other. Neither task went as planned, the omelet hung half out of the pan, while she missed the ‘answer’ button and the phone continued to ring. Finally, she managed to press the button and tuck the phone under her chin while trying to shake the omelet back into the pan.

                  “Hello.” Yuri answered. “Choi resident, Yuri speaking. How may I help you?”

                  [“Hanging out with your girl, I see.”] Hyoyeon’s voice sounded amused.

                  Yuri made a face. “Yes, if you must know.”

                  [“Alright alright, don’t get your all wadded up. I’m just calling to check on Sooyoung. I heard about her … incident.”] Hyoyeon laughed.

                  “I’m not wearing any .” Yuri joked, knowing that mental image would give Hyoyeon a . “Yeah, I brought her home from the hospital yesterday. She’s doing better, but she has to study for her exams this week.”

                  [“That’s good. At least you’re there for her.”]

                  “Yeah. It could have been bad.” Yuri slid the mostly intact omelet onto a plate before she started on a new one.

                  [“I know you’ll take … good care of her … kekeke.”] Hyoyeon snickered.

                  [“Yah! Kim Hyoyeon, get your mind out of the gutter!”] Sooyoung had picked up the other receiver and yelled into the phone. She was curious after hearing Yuri mentioning . Yuri almost went deaf.

                  [“Hey, it’s player Choi. Damn, you are loud.”] Hyoyeon continued to tease, making Yuri roll her eyes again.

                  [“I’m not a player! Yuri, tell her I’m not a player.”] Sooyoung whined, she was milking this injure for all the care and sympathy she could get.

                  “Yes, honey. Kim Hyoyeon, my Sooyoung is not a player.” Yuri felt like she was mediating a fight between children.

                  [“YOUR Sooyoung? I see I see … well, YOUR Sooyoung sure knows how to pick the scary ones. There was that stalker, now this crazy chick … I already asked some favors and Kahi also found the detective that she hired … we’ll take care of this mess, so tell YOUR Sooyoung to get some rest.”] Hyoyeon continued to tease them.

                  [“I pick the scary ones?”] Sooyoung sounded incredulous. [“They pick me.”]

                  “You like your girls insane, Soo … you just got a gift for the crazy ones.” Yuri knew she was one of them.

                  Hyoyeon laughed longer than Yuri thought the situation warranted, but she was busy making food so she only half-listened to the children’s arguments.

                  [“Alright, since Yuri is making food, I guess I won’t have to bring anything over to feed the glutton. Take good care of her, Yuri!”] Hyoyeon yawned.

                  “I will, thanks Hyoyeon.” Yuri said, reaching to disconnect the call.

                  [“Hey! You can still bring food over!”] Sooyoung yelped before the other woman disconnected.

                  [“Nah. You’re getting a little round along the edges, so you don’t need it. See ya.”] Hyoyeon laughed and ended the call before Sooyoung screamed.

                  “Can you believe her?! She said I was getting round!” Sooyoung griped and put the phone away. She got up from the sofa and slowly limped into the kitchen to watch Yuri. Sooyoung swallowed hard. The smell was making her drool.

                  “Well, right now you’re circling the food like a vulture.” Yuri laughed and smacked Sooyoung’s hand, when the younger woman reached for piece of egg.

                  Sooyoung made a face. “Don’t compare me to a carrion … and I am hungry. I’m sure you’ve heard of the condition before.”

                  Yuri laughed and hip bumped Sooyoung away. “I’ve got one more to make and then you can have all treatment for your condition. Now shoo … get out of my kitchen …”

                  “Your kitchen?” Sooyoung crinkled her nose. “I recall that I pay the rent for this kitchen.” She stepped back and poured herself a glass of water.

                  Yuri continued to cook, but before long, she felt like she was being watched. She turned back to see Sooyoung quietly sipping on water and smiling at her. “What?”

                  “Oh, nothing …” Sooyoung smiled brighter.

                  “Tell me.”

                  “It’s just …” Sooyoung chuckled. “You are extra attractive when you cook. I like it.”

                  Yuri just smiled and nodded before returning to her work. Soon, she had two omelets on Sooyoung’s plate and one for herself. “Alright, it’s eating time.”

                  “YAY!” Exclaimed Sooyoung, who grabbed some silverware before heading to the dining table. She quickly settled into a seat before a plate of food was placed in front of her. “Mmm …” 

                  “The only time I see you this excited is when you’re about to eat or have .” Yuri laughed.

                  Sooyoung blushed hotly. “Most of the time when I do those things, it’s with you. You … you … temptress, you!”

                  “I know. Let’s not forget that.” Yuri winked and squeezed some ketchup out onto her omelet. Sooyoung preferred mayo on hers, which often met with Yuri’s disgusted frown.

                  “After dinner, I’m going to get back to studying.” Sooyoung cut up a piece of the egg mixture and ate happily.

                  After a quick glance at Sooyoung, Yuri nodded. “I’ll probably go home, so you can study. I must be a distraction because I’m so y.”

                  Sooyoung choked on her food. She coughed heavily before she took a gulp of water. “You don’t have to go, I’ll let you know when I can’t focus.”

                  “Nah. I’ve got to tidy up my apartment, it’s been a week since I’ve been back and I haven’t had the chance to unpack or anything.” Yuri responded slowly. While she wanted to monopolize Sooyoung’s time, she wanted the younger girl to do well in school. Things were starting to be better between them, she wanted to enjoy this time.

                  The student laughed. “I bet your place is still a mess. I remember the last time I was there.”

                  “Hey, at least I don’t shed my clothes like a snake and leave it everywhere.” Yuri shot back.

                  After dinner was cleared away, Yuri brewed some tea for Sooyoung to have while the younger girl studied. When it was time for her to leave, Sooyoung wanted to walk her out to the car. Yuri stopped the younger woman. “I can get to my car, you should get some rest. You’ve been moving around a lot.”

                  “I know, but I want to make sure that you are safe.” Sooyoung has not forgotten about Yoona and the people she could hire.

                  Yuri understood Sooyoung’s concerns. “I know, but I can take care of myself. Just lock the door and I’ll text you when I get to my car.”

                  “And again after you got home.”

                  “Okay, mom.” Yuri laughed. “Take care and call me if you need anything.” It was the hardest part when she had to leave Sooyoung. They agreed that Yuri should not sleep over during this time of confusion, so that Sooyoung had time to think.

                  “Thank you.”

                  Sooyoung wrapped her non-casted arm around Yuri’s shoulders and gave the woman a hug. As she pulled away, Yuri laced hand behind Sooyoung’s neck. Sooyoung leaned down to kiss her.

                  Just as their lips met, Sooyoung’s cell phone rang. Despite wanting more, Sooyoung decided against her lust.

                  They pulled away and Sooyoung bid Yuri good-bye before she went back to her seat at the sofa. She checked her phone to find a missed call from Jessica. The guilt reclaimed her once again, since that day she barely thought about the girl she was supposedly in love with. She sighed and waited until she received Yuri’s text before she called Jessica back. Maybe she was a player, after all.

                  [“Hello.”] A sweet voice picked up on the other line.

                  “Hi, it’s Sooyoung.” Sooyoung greeted. “I was in the bathroom, so I didn’t get your call.” She lied like a pro.

                  [“Oh, hey Soo.”] Jessica’s voice sounded excited. [“I was wondering if you’ve had dinner.”

                  Sooyoung rubbed her stomach. “I just finished eating, did you have something in mind?”

                  [“I made too much kimchi fried rice, so I wanted to bring some to you.”]

                  “Oh, just admit that you want to see me.” Sooyoung called Jessica out. “I would love some kimchi fried rice.”

                  [“Whatever, I don’t like your smug voice. I think I’ll eat it all instead.”]

                  “Oh c’mon! Don’t be like that! I haven’t tasted your food … ever!” Sooyoung chuckled. “I’m sorry my voice is naturally smug, can you please bring me some food and keep me company?”

                  [“Since you asked so nicely … okay. Text me your address and I’ll be there soon.”]

                  Sooyoung giggled and texted Jessica after she hung up. She was scheduling like a player, arranging to meet Jessica after Yuri just left. She wanted to hate herself and feel guiltier, but for some reason, she was starting to enjoy the attention. A sick and dark side of her was glad because she would not be lonely again if she had both girls. She would never cry by herself alone again. Maybe she was not a good person, after all.

                  Not long after the call, a knock came at the door. Sooyoung was more cautious this time. She checked through the peephole before she opened the door. “Oh, you must be tired ‘cause you’ve been running through my mind all day.” She winked and smoothly smiled.

                  “Ugh.” Jessica made a face and turned away, as if she was leaving.

                  “Oi! Come back!” Sooyoung hobbled after Jessica. “Ouch!” She leaned against the door for support and pretended to wince out pain.”

                  “Hey.” Jessica turned back and quickly helped her inside the apartment. “Are you alright? You should be more careful!” She supported the taller woman to the sofa.

                  “I’m okay, I just need to sit down, I guess.” Sooyoung replied and pulled Jessica down with her. “That’s a nice shirt. Can I talk you out of it?”

                  “Stop it!” Jessica laughed and pushed Sooyoung away. “I’m just here to feed you, not to be subjected to your painfully corny pick up lines.” She stood up and looked around Sooyoung’s apartment. “Nice place you got here.”

                  “Thank you.” Sooyoung poured a cup of tea for Jessica and watched the other woman.

                  Jessica’s eyes lingered for a moment at the massive amount of photographs. “This is Yuri-ssi?” She asked about the woman she met yesterday. It piqued her curiosity to see half of Sooyoung’s wall covered with photos of one woman.

                  “Oh … um … yes.” Sooyoung rose and hobbled over to Jessica. “She’s my co-worker and best friend.” She explained as nonchalantly as she could.

                  “You guys must be very close.” Jessica focused on one photo in particular.

                  Sooyoung’s eyes followed Jessica’s gaze. “That was taken during our first college sports festival … and yes, we’re close. She’s helped me through a lot …” She smiled at the silliness in that photo.

                  “I see.” Jessica nodded and looked at Sooyoung, studying the younger woman’s face. She was slightly troubled by the expression that she saw. She thought Sooyoung only looked at her that way.

                  Sooyoung felt Jessica’s prying eyes and looked back with a smile. “What? Do I have something on my face?”

                  “No.” Jessica shook her head. “You just look very happy when you look at that picture.”

                  Sooyoung blushed and shook her head. “It was a good day, I always look happy.” She pointed to the bag in Jessica’s hand. “Is that the famous Jung Jessica’s kimchi fried rice?”

                  “Famous?”

                  “Yeah. You’ve never cooked for me before … ever!” Sooyoung made an emphasis.

                  “Well, I didn’t know how to cook then … but let me put this into a bowl for you.” Jessica found her way to the kitchen.

                  Sooyoung wiped the worried sweats off her brows after she successfully changed the subject and diverted Jessica’s attention. “Have you eaten?”

                  “I have. I made this thinking that my family would be home, but my parents went to dinner with the Seo family and Krystal went out with Sulli.” Jessica searched through Sooyoung’s cabinets for a bowl and fork.

                  “Awwww! Don’t you think they make such a cute couple?” Sooyoung thought about the giant baby, Sulli, and the mini-Ice Princess, Krystal.

                  “I do! To think that they were just babies when we met.” Jessica brought the food out to Sooyoung.

                  “Thanks!” Sooyoung accepted the bowl and then handed Jessica the cup of tea.

                  Truthfully, Sooyoung was quite full. Yet, she wanted to see Jessica so she happily gobbled up the food.

                  “Is it good?”

                  Sooyoung nodded and smiled at Jessica’s expectant look. She a grain of rice from her lips. “It’s delicious.” It was a simple dish, but Sooyoung found it to be delicious just because Jessica made it.

                  After Sooyoung was finished, she leaned back and rubbed her round belly. For two days straight, she had been overstuffing herself with food, but she was satisfied nonetheless. “Oh I’m so full …” She burped softly.

                  “You still have a big appetite.” Jessica giggled and picked up the fashion magazine that Yuri had brought over earlier. She could not help but notice the address that was stamped on the cover. However, she kept quiet.

                  “Yea … not surprising right? I’m a growing girl.”

                  “You have gotten taller … much taller. And your cheeks aren’t as round anymore.” Jessica absently flipped through the pages, though she was busy looking at Sooyoung.

                  “I lost the baby fat a while back. I gave it all to Sulli.” Sooyoung laughed and scooted closer to Jessica.

                  “So what were you up to before I called?”

                  Sooyoung pointed to the notebook on her table. “I was studying. My final exams start on Wednesday.” She slowly faked a yawn and stretched before she rested her arm around Jessica.

                  “Oh, then don’t let me distract you. You should focus on your studies … when is your entrance exam?”

                  “A month from now.” Sooyoung answered and shook her head. “I will be fine, I’m just reviewing my notes to refresh my memory. I’m glad to see you.”

                  “Hmm … I will help you study. Let me quiz you! Ooo … better yet, I’ll help you make flash cards!” Jessica clapped her hands together excitedly. Her eyes were round and wide with excitement.

                  Sooyoung burst into laughter. “Hahaha! That was so nerdy! You got excited to make note cards!” She laughed until she felt a sharp pain on the side of her rib cage. Her bruised ribs reminded her to take it easy. She winced and slowed her breath.

                  Jessica gently petted Sooyoung’s hair while Sooyoung caught her breath. “That ought to teach you not to laugh at me. So what’s the first topic of your exams?”

                  “Health statistics.” Sooyoung rubbed her sore rib and showed Jessica the pages of formula and calculations. “Easy peasy since I’m good at math.”

                  Jessica nodded. “It’s not that hard, let me ask you questions and you answer.” She was happy to be able to help.

                  “Okay … here.” Sooyoung handed over her notebook.

                  Jessica flipped through the pages and started. “What is the formula for chi-square?”

                  Sooyoung thought for a moment before she answered. “You plus me, add a bed, subtract our clothes, divide your legs … and multiply?” Not a hint of a smile was betrayed from her lips. She kept a very straight face.

                  Jessica’s cheeks burned brightly before she hit Sooyoung on the shoulder. “Quit it! Your pick up lines are corny! Focus on studying.”

                  “I lost my teddy bear, will you sleep with me?” Sooyoung pouted and bat her lashes until Jessica broke into laughter.

                  Jessica held her stomach and laughed for a long time after some delay. She could not get over the cheesiness of those jokes.

                  “You still have delayed reaction to my jokes.” Sooyoung grinned and laid her hand over Jessica’s, giving it a small squeeze. When their eyes met, Sooyoung’s gaze sparkled before it trailed down to Jessica’s lips. She leaned over and kissed Jessica.

                  “You’re silly.” Jessica said as they parted.

                  “And you’re distracting.” Sooyoung replied as she leaned over again.

                  The phone rang as they deepened the kiss. It must be Yuri calling to let Sooyoung know that she was home.

                  As Sooyoung reached for her phone, “Ignore it.” Jessica said without moving away from Sooyoung’s.

                  “I can’t …” Sooyoung breathed softly, but was silenced when Jessica kissed her again. The irony struck her of how she missed Jessica’s call while she was kissing Yuri, and now it was vice versa. She pulled Jessica closer and kissed her more passionately until the phone stopped ringing. She wanted to silence the guilt and pain in her heart.

                  Eventually, they pulled away and grinned coyly at each other. “You’re not going to do very well on these exams if we keep this up.” Jessica chuckled.

                  “It’ll be worth it.” Sooyoung sighed and leaned against Jessica.

                  “No no, I want you to do well and keep your promise. So buckle up, young lady. Let’s study. What’s the real formula for chi-square?” Jessica replaced her smile with her signature iciness. “If you say another cheesy line, I’m going to leave.”

                  Without a choice, Sooyoung recited the real formula. They continued to go back and forth until they covered most of the information. Then, Jessica opted to stay to help Sooyoung write flashcards for her other subjects since Sooyoung’s arm was hurt. They studied hard until they were exhausted and fell asleep on the sofa.

Hello again! Sorry that I am a day late! I  totally expended myself yesterday. I went to the zoo in the morning, then played dodgeball for the afternoon, and then bowling at night. Needless to say, I was bed ridden most of the day. All and any movement hurt ... so my entire body is in pain. But I managed to type up this chapter! Haha. I'm sorry this author is so lazy!

Thanks everyone for supporting and reading! You guys/girls are wonderful! I feel happy like a celebrity! keke

Now I have to  put patches & ice packs on my muscles. Owwie.

My back hurt.

I'm old. 

Sad. 

:(