☙✨💖✨❧

Thursday, July 9th, 2015

Today was a new day. Ji Min woke up early because she needed to tackle on some important errands today, which included a trip to the DMV for her new ID. She dreaded it a lot but she knew she can't simply put it off for too long. Since it was so early, she had a feeling Won Woo wouldn't want to take her. So she thought of what she could do? She went to her contact list and looked over everyone's names. Who will be the chosen one?

Mingyu's name stood out more to her, his friendly persona was nice to be around, she thought to pick someone who could make the wait at the DMV more fun, even though Soonyoung might have been a good choice, too, but she was already composing the text to Mingyu. She’d pick Soonyoung next time.

Ji Min: Good morning Mingyu!

It's Ji Min, I hope I'm not bothering you?

Mingyu: Of course not, good morning! 😁

Ji Min: I hope you don't mind if I could ask a favor of you? 😯

Mingyu: I don't mind, what is it? 😄

Ji Min: Well, I need to get a new ID since I'm new to Seoul now.

Would you mind taking me to the DMV?

Mingyu: Funny you should ask! 😂

I'm actually going to the DMV today to take my driver's test.

What a coincidence!

Ji Min: Oh really? That is a major coincidence! 😂

But I don't want to make you late, so don't worry.

Mingyu: It's okay, my test isn't until 10 am, I can still take you! 😆

Ji Min: Are you sure?

You don't mind being there this early?

Mingyu: Not at all! Where should I pick you up?

I’m borrowing my dad’s car today, it has GPS!

Ji Min felt lucky that she wouldn't have to go alone now. She texted him her brother’s house address so Mingyu could input it to the GPS he talked about and quickly got ready to go out. She wore something simple and comfy for today, shorts and a plain grey t-shirt. She thought to also check the weather and found out it might be raining later. So she grabbed a jacket to bring and an umbrella.

When she made it downstairs, she saw a dark gray Kia pull up, then a text from Mingyu saying he had arrived. She hurried out the door and locked it after checking if she had everything, she didn’t want to be like her forgetful friend and get locked out of the house too. When she approached the car, she decided she should sit in the back seat and realized she made a good choice since someone else was already seated in the front seat. She recognized it to be Minghao from the other night. She greeted them kindly and they greeted her back.

“Minghao also needs a new ID now that he's moved here officially,” Mingyu explained.

Minghao had gone back to China for a few months after graduation to visit family and arrange things for the move. He had returned to Seoul a week ago. Knowing how chaotic DMVs can be, he hadn't gone to get his new ID just yet. But today seemed like a good day to do it now that he had someone to go with. Junhui had already gotten his while Minghao was still in China. The older had also gone back around the same time after graduating be returned a month early.

Since they were on the topic of getting to know each other, she asked if they were ready for college this fall? That’s when she learned they were a year younger than her. “No way, really?!” They were amused by her reaction. “Did you skip a year?”

“I did.” Minghao raised his hand. “Gyu and Seok have early birthdays.”

“Seok?” Ji Min repeated innocently and clueless.

“Ah, he’s referring to our other friend, Lee Seokmin,” Mingyu explained while they were stopped at a traffic light.

“Another Lee.” She chuckled. She wondered if they could be long lost distant relatives or something.

“There’s actually three.” Minghao pointed out. “Lee Jihoon and Lee Chan.”

“Well, now there’s four, including me.”

“Lees all around!” Mingyu laughed. “Not enough Kims!”

After having a good laugh, they continued to get to know each other. She learned Mingyu’s father is a doctor, his mother a stay at home mom and he even has a younger sister three years younger than him named Minah, which would make her four years younger than Ji Min. He’s particularly interested in design and art, so he plans to major in Design when he starts college.

Minghao on the other hand, he’s come from China to pursue better opportunities. His goal is to become a photographer. She thought that was nice, though, she couldn’t help but be reminded of her brother Hongbin for a moment, since they have similar interests regarding photography. Those bitter feelings were starting to surface, but Mingyu snapped her out of it when he told her they had arrived to the DMV.

They headed inside together since Mingyu had his test scheduled, all he had to do was check in and wait. Ji Min and Minghao had to take numbers and wait to be called. They returned to Mingyu’s side and he began to hold a long and fun conversation between himself and Minghao while Ji Min sat there and listened with a few laughs here and there when they started arguing about silly things. It sort of reminded her of her little fights with Won Woo from the past, and she started to zone out, remembering those times, the times when she was the happiest.

☙✨💖✨❧

Completing their IDs was faster than they thought it would be and the two had no choice but to stay and wait for Mingyu to finish his driver’s test because he was their ride. He promised to buy them lunch after which wasn't a bad idea anyway, they were getting hungry from all that waiting. Ji Min and Minghao talked a bit here and there, she noticed it before but it was very clear how he was similar like Won Woo in some ways. He doesn't say a lot or expresses himself well, but since she's been down that road many times with Won Woo before, it made it easy for Minghao to relax around her. He felt comfortable already.

It went without saying that Ji Min really appreciated Minghao for speaking up and protecting her from that older man the other night that tried to her. It still bothers her when she thinks about it. Her mind kept thinking if Minghao had not been there to stop it, what could have really happened? Could it have been worse and the older guy kidnap her while everyone else was distracted by the drunk guy? It reminded her of her few brief run-ins with dangerous people on the streets of Changwon. It was mainly why she never left the house unless necessary and during broad daylight, never at night.

“Ji Min?” Mingyu's voice snapped her out of it. “Are you okay?”

“I'm fine.” She gave a weak smile when she looked up to him.

“Well, I'm done with my driver’s test. I passed! So, let's go celebrate with lunch! My treat!”

“Good, I didn’t eat breakfast, I’m so hungry!” She complained while getting up to follow them out.

“That’s not good, be sure to eat breakfast next time.” Minghao lightly scolded and she smiled, she guessed she and him were already getting along quite well.

They left the DMV and were on their way to get lunch, but Ji Min noticed right away that they weren’t headed for the city and they entered a nice neighborhood. Where was Mingyu taking them? “Are you kidnapping us?” Ji Min asked while watching houses pass one by one through the backseat window. She heard Minghao snicker at her question and mutter how he liked the way she jokes. Mingyu only pouted in response to it all.

“I just thought, maybe we should bring Seok along! That’s all!” He explained and pulled into one of the driveways. He proceeded to honk the horn a few times before Minghao stopped him and scolded him for being so noisy. Ji Min chuckled and watched them bicker about how they choose to get their friend’s attention, Mingyu with honking the car horn several times outside in the driveway or Minghao with simply calling their friend to come out to the car via a phone call.

Before Minghao could make the call, they saw the front door open and someone stepped out and looked at the car with a frown and his hands up, implying “what’s wrong with you?” to Mingyu in the driver seat. “Hyung! Let’s get lunch!” Mingyu shouted over to him through his open window. Minghao facepalmed in the passenger seat and Ji Min realized how fun this friendship was going to be from now on.

After a moment or two, Seokmin emerged from the house and made his way over to get into the backseat. As he was getting in, he was scolding Mingyu for being so noisy earlier when he was honking the horn. “My neighbors hate when you do that!” He seemed really annoyed. “Can’t you send me a text like a normal person?!”

“Sorry, I’m not allowed to text while driving, it’s dangerous,” Mingyu said with a hint of laughter, he was obviously joking. “So, where shall we eat?” He asked while looking at his friend through the rear-view mirror. It seemed like Seokmin hadn’t noticed Ji Min sitting in the back seat yet. “Any recommendations, JiJi?” He asked and she was surprised he was already calling her by a nickname. But she supposed she had given him one when they first met, Count Dracula.

“Oh, uh…” that’s when Seokmin finally noticed and froze up in his seat with wide eyes as if he had just seen a ghost. “Well, cheeseburgers sound good.”

“That sounds good, then let’s get cheeseburgers!” Mingyu beamed and started to back out of the driveway. Seokmin had become incredibly silent and avoided eye contact with everyone in the car, which Mingyu noticed and started to about it. “He’s very shy around girls.”

“Yah!” Seokmin didn’t appreciate that, not one bit.

“It’s okay.” Ji Min assured. “I’m shy around strangers.” She admitted. She only did so well before because Won Woo was by her side. And now, Mingyu was with her and even Minghao, she got to know them earlier at the DMV, so she wasn’t as shy as she would have been if she were meeting Seokmin all on her own.

Seokmin managed to give her a kind smile and introduced himself, and she did the same. It seemed like it was less awkward now after introductions. They held a small conversation with each other on the rest of the trip to the burger joint where she explained how she knew Mingyu and Minghao, via Won Woo who is an old friend of hers. He was surprised to learn Won Woo had an old female friend, didn’t seem as common these days but he thought it was nice too. When they arrived to the burger joint, Seokmin was a kind gentleman and opened the door for her and even pulled her seat out. He was raised with manners and Ji Min thought it was sweet. She couldn’t help but wonder though, if he was just being nice or if maybe he did it to impress her?

There you go again, thinking every guy is after you. So vain! She was embarrassed to even assume such a thing. With her low self-esteem, she didn’t understand why she’d even think that highly of herself when it came to other guys. Her history with guys is non-existent, no experience whatsoever, it’s been hard to figure out what it all meant now.

During lunch, Ji Min learned more about Seokmin. First was that he’s best friends with Soonyoung and a part of a gag trio with Soonyoung and Seungkwan. So, today I met Seokmin. And they’ve mentioned two other friends. That makes thirteen so far. Seokmin is very fond of singing and Mingyu went on and on about how good he is, to which the older was embarrassed and modest about it. She was really interested to hear him sing, though she wouldn’t ask him to do it for her on the spot, she hoped someday she could hear him sing. Maybe they could go to a norebang sometime as a group, it would be fun and she wondered if Won Woo would even want to do something like that?

Speak of the devil, shortly before they were finished eating, they noticed familiar faces enter the restaurant and Mingyu immediately flagged them over to join them. Ji Min was surprised to see it was Won Woo with three unfamiliar faces. “Fancy running into you here.” Won Woo said with a light chuckle.

“Likewise.” She smiled and stood up to greet the new faces properly. One of them was Chan that was mentioned before. He was the youngest and sported orange hair that was fading. The other was Seungkwan, who was also mentioned before, he had wavy dark brown hair and seemed very kind when greeting Ji Min, though his sassy side came out when Mingyu made a comment about the snapback he was wearing, saying it was unusual to see him this way, as if it didn’t suit him, which was not what Mingyu meant at all! While those two had their little quarrel, Won Woo introduced her to Vernon.

“Nice to meet you.” He greeted and noticed her staring at him. “Please don’t say it.”

“Say what?” She tilted her head. She was just so shocked by how handsome he was, she was a bit stunned!

“Nothing!” Vernon figured not to bring it up himself. That left her confused but she supposed Won Woo could explain later. For now, the four of them joined their table. Won Woo sat next to Ji Min in the booth after switching seats with Seokmin who looked relieved. She doesn’t blame him though after what Mingyu said before, him being shy around girls. It was better this way, having Won Woo by her side, she felt like she could be more relaxed and enjoy the rest of her meal. But right away, she fell behind in everyone’s conversations, there were too many voices trying to talk at once and it was overwhelming to her. She ended up zoning out through most of it and felt bad when she finally snapped out of it. Luckily, no one had been talking to her directly.

Before she knew it, lunch was over and they were parting ways at the entrance. The youngest, Chan, was sweet when he said his goodbye to them, he seemed the most excited to meet her out of the other two. She had a feeling she’d dote on him a lot later on, along with Ae-Cha. They’re just too cute not to!

“Long day?” Won Woo asked after they were a block away from the restaurant. She had zoned out again and held in a sigh. She wondered how he does it, spending time with that many friends at once?

“Yeah.” She simply sighed. “Mingyu at least had a car.” She pointed out and slouched her shoulders. “I hate walking long distances.”

“Me too.” He had to agree. “I’ll get a car, someday.”

“To think Mingyu is younger than me and already got his license! I’m so behind on a lot of things. At least I graduated high school…”

“Relax. It’s different for everyone.”

“What about you? Have you gotten your driver’s license yet?” He simply nodded and mentioned it happened earlier in the Spring. “Well, good for you!”

“Don’t worry, I’ll drive you around whenever you need it.” He chuckled.

“Thanks, I really appreciate it.” She rolled her eyes but laughed. She really would appreciate it, especially in the winter time. “Too bad that time isn’t now. My legs are still sore from walking around the city so much the other day.”

“I guess you’ve become a lazy sloth just like me.” He snickered. “Want me to carry you on my back?”

“How much farther do we have until we get home?” She didn’t want to make him carry her the entire way, at least part way. “It’s okay, I’ll be fine.” Actually, she’d rather not.

“Why not?” He pouted. “I’m not going to drop you.”

“I know, but it might tire you out.”

“That’s fine, as long as you don’t strain yourself from walking, I’d rather carry you.” He reached out and stopped her by her shoulder and she tensed up and faced him quickly. “What is it?”

It took a moment for her to come up with the words to say and she told him about the old man who tried to touch her the other night. It was only thanks to Minghao that the older guy left her alone. Won Woo was pissed, not at her, but at himself for being too occupied with the drunk man to do something about it. She even brought up the few encounters she had in Changwon, which made it hard for her to even leave the house since she had no one to keep her company on her outings. It’s been so long living life that way that now she’s in Seoul and has been leaving the house more, it’s gotten a bit draining to even socialize. It’s exhausting.

“You don’t need to go out every day, just take it easy.” He said before stepping in front of her and knelt down so he could carry her on his back. “You’ll get sick if you push yourself for the sake of trying to fit in so quickly.”

“I know. Thanks.”

“If you need to go anywhere, tell me, I’ll go with you.” Of course, she’d like some independence at times, but it really is a smart idea to have someone with her when she goes into the city alone, or if she’s out in the city after dark.

“Right.”

“You don’t even have to go into the city, you can just come to my place, like old times if you just want to get out of the house.”

“And the same goes for you.” She gave a cute chuckle. She liked the idea of things being like old times. She let go of his shoulders so she could wrap her arms around the front of his neck and rested her head in the crook of his shoulder. “I’m glad we’re together again.” She said softly and closed her eyes.

It put a smile on his lips, he felt the same, naturally. Me too.

When they made it to the halfway mark on their trip home, Won Woo noticed a raindrop fall on his cheek and he looked up to see the once clear blue sky was now cloudy and grey. “It was supposed to rain again today?” He asked and quickly tried to find shelter for them. The park was nearby and he brought them to one of the benches that had shelter to block the harsh sun during summers as well as rainfall.

“Oh damn, I guess I forgot my jacket and umbrella in Mingyu’s dad’s car earlier. I didn’t even realize it until now.” She sighed and facepalmed.

“That’s okay.” He assured her. “I needed to take a break from walking anyways.” He added and took a seat while she remained standing near the bench.

“I’m heavy, aren’t I?” She pouted, but in a teasing way. “I’m not as in shape as I used to be.” She muttered and patted her stomach. “I suppose I gained a bit of weight from our epic adventures a few days ago. How unsightly.”

“Shut up.” Won Woo frowned at her and she was surprised at his comment. “You look the same since Monday, there’s nothing wrong with your body, there’s nothing wrong with gaining a few pounds, so don’t say that.”

“Easy for a guy to say when girls are pressured to look a certain way in this day and age.” She pointed out and turned away from him and stared out into the pouring rain.

“Do you honestly think it’s not the same for guys?” He questioned. “If I gained 200 lbs do you think girls would still like me? No, they wouldn’t.” He scolded, she looked at him, a bit hurt. I'd still like you. She thought before realizing how he said it. Wait, I mean of course I'm his friend, I'm not that shallow to dislike him because of his weight. “The beauty standards are ed up, I know that, but I’m just telling you that you really don’t look any different.”

“Fine, okay, I get it.” She sighed and finally took a seat on the bench with him. “High school really ruined my self-esteem, so it’s hard to think the way you do.” She noticed him get quiet and she looked over at him, he seemed like he was struggling on what to say to comfort her.

“I don’t want to say cliché things.” He managed to say and she nodded with a small giggle.

“It’s okay. I don’t want to hear cliché things either.” Her gaze returned to the rain falling ahead of them and sighed. “Life as a girl will only get more difficult from this point on, won’t it? I have to worry about my face, my weight, my clothes, my hair, my words, who I talk to, who I allow into my world… it’s a lot. If only it was simpler.”

“As long as you’re with me, you don’t need to worry about any of those things, okay?” He said and also watched the rainfall with a hint of a smile on his lips. “It’ll be simple, just like you want it.” She was a bit stunned at his response and soon felt the tears welling in her eyes. She tried to stop them from falling, but it was no use. “Are you crying?!” He frowned. “What did I say wrong?!”

“You said nothing wrong!” She assured him and laughed through her tears. “It’s just… that was sweet. Thank you. You know, you’re going to make a really good boyfriend in the future. Your girlfriend will be very lucky.” She could see him get embarrassed and looked away while clearing his throat. “I haven’t been in Seoul long, but I was curious since that night when Ae-Cha was clinging onto you.”

“What about it?”

“Well, do you have a girlfriend I should meet before you get into trouble from meeting with me so much?”

“No. I don’t.” He quickly answered and she was amused at how fast he said it. “I never had a girlfriend the past three years.”

“Ah, okay. Just making sure. I don’t want to get into a catfight if we ended up bumping into her suddenly as we do with your friends.” She chuckled and noticed the rain started to die down.

“What about you?” He asked. She tilted her head at him before understanding what he was asking.

“Nope.” She shook her head. “While the all the girls were crazy about you, no one was crazy about me. All I have are my Kpop biases who don’t even know I exist.” She gave a sad laugh and he snickered. That changes now that he thought about Soonyoung. I just might be crazy about you, too… He thought.

“That’s fine. Being single isn’t so bad.” He said and stood up. “There’s no rush in finding that special someone, so just take it a day at a time.” He gestured for her to follow, the rain had finally stopped.

“You’re right. We still have a lot to do before we start worrying about settling down.” She felt better after talking with him about it. He had some good points and she didn’t feel as self-conscious anymore. There’s someone out there who will love me just as I am. She thought and happily walked beside Won Woo, who, little did she know, was that someone.  

☙✨💖✨❧

Friday, July 10th, 2015

It’s been five days since Ji Min moved to Seoul. She spent her last two days officially unpacking and setting her room up to the best of her ability and running important errands like getting her new ID from the DMV, which turned out to be such an exhausting task at the end of the day, and it wasn’t even because of the DMV, but because of meeting with Won Woo’s friends for lunch.

She can remember Won Woo carrying her home and they got stuck in the rain for a bit before finally returning to her brother’s house. She spent some time on the couch watching TV with him in hopes it could help her stay awake long enough until a more appropriate time to sleep. She managed to eat a small dinner before he left and she went to sleep early last night and slept the entire night. It might have been the best sleep she’s gotten in a while, so she was definitely in a better mood today and ready to get things done.

She’s still in need of going to register for college, but she figured she could do that next Monday. It’s already been an eventful week as is and she’s mentally exhausted no matter how much sleep she got. Even unpacking her things and putting her room together was physically exhausting, despite she didn't have a lot to work with from the start, which made it easier on her for sure, but still… exhausting.

She did feel like something was missing from it all, she could go for a beanbag chair and a vanity table for when she puts her invisible makeup on. I mean, I could just try it out? I don't think it'd be too much of a difference? She touched her cheek lightly, even though she understood what Won Woo said before, there’s also looking nice for herself too. She recalled when she met Chae Soo Min and how beautiful she was that day. She thought it wouldn’t hurt to get some makeup tips from her, right? Oh, but I wouldn't want to bother her, she might have plans with her boyfriend this evening. She fell back onto her bed in defeat.

She wasn't sure what she'd do for the rest of the evening since Won Woo was invited to hang out with his friends earlier, they were keeping in touch via text so he shared that info with her at the time. He mentioned he’d pick up her missing jacket and umbrella from Mingyu’s place for her, which she appreciated. She was a bit envious but she didn't want to invite herself either, unlike his friends, but that’s okay, she sorta invited them to eat each time a few days ago, so she can’t really say they did that. And she ate lunch with some of them yesterday, too. She’d rather Won Woo spend time with his guy friends alone, just because she’s around again didn’t mean he should drop them for her. She’d hate for his friends to dislike her because of that.

For now, she’d just have to spend her evening alone, like the other old times. It was quite boring though. She didn’t have much to do other than browse social apps and youtube on her phone. The TV didn’t seem that interesting at the moment and she doesn’t really have a laptop or desktop computer to use, she’s too nervous to use her older brother’s down in the study. She was definitely sure it was strictly for work and most likely password protected. She’s no hacker so it’s best not to even bother with it. She spent a lot of time off of social media before because she really didn’t have much use for it, she still might not have much use for it other than checking up on her favorite idols. I suppose right now would have been a good time to have it. She could chat up some friends. If she had any that were available right now that is.

Just when she felt like she might go nuts from the boredom, she heard someone arrive home. She sat up with a smile before frowning, she had a feeling it wasn't Jaehwan but Hongbin. She literally hadn't met him at all since she moved and he hardly texted her either since the day she arrived, when he told her he probably couldn’t make it to the bus station. Things were not great between them and unfortunately, Jaehwan wasn't here to help the situation either. Guess I'm staying in my room for the rest of the night. She grabbed one of her pillows and flopped back on her bed once more. I should have eaten before coming back up here. She could feel her stomach start to rumble.

“Ji Min?” She heard her brother call her from downstairs. She thought to pretend to be asleep but didn't find the point in that. It was better to see what he wanted.

“Yeah?” She called back.

“Are you busy?”

“Not really? Why?” She got up and made her way out of her room to avoid more shouting. When she looked down she saw him standing at the bottom of the staircase with his head down and he looked like he was thinking about what to say next. “Why? What's up?” She spoke again and nearly startled him.

“Well…” he started and gestured to the front door. “There's a gathering going on at a friend’s place, they'd like to meet you. Do you want to go?”

“A gathering?” She repeated and suddenly felt nervous about meeting new people… but she realized it would be for the best. “I guess. Sure.” She nodded.

“Okay. Then I'll be in my car.” He said before heading off. She watched him leave and couldn't help but feel a bit dejected. When did it get like this? She wondered. She headed back to her room to change out of her lazy clothes into something better so she could make a good first impression. While she did so, she thought about her brother Hongbin. It seems like this started back shortly after Jaehwan moved.

Thinking back to after their oldest sibling left the nest, Hongbin became more distant towards her. He didn't seem happy when told to look after his younger sister. It seemed like a task to pick her up from school and a task to help her with homework and making sure she was fed. She didn't see it then but she sees it now. I suppose… he really disliked that. It makes sense. He must think he has to do it all over again… but he doesn't have to. She's pretty much all grown up now and more mature, she can take care of herself now, she always has.

When she was done getting dressed, she grabbed what she needed and made her way down to the front door. She locked it and made her way to the car after that. She got into the front seat and there was nothing but silence. He was texting someone on his phone when she first got in and he put it away before he started to drive down the street, the car had already been running. She didn't like the silence between them and decided to let him know something.

“Hey.” She got his attention first. “I can take care of myself now, so you don't have worry about me.” She avoided looking at him when she said it, but she could tell he was looking at her in the corner of her eye. She sensed he was caught off guard by her comment, he wasn’t expecting it. “It’s not like how it was in Changwon, you don’t need to look after me so closely like I’m some little girl who can’t take care of herself. It’s clear you did not like that back then, but I’m turning 19 in September, I’ve grown up. If that’s the problem, don’t worry about it. So, you can stop avoiding coming home now that I’m here. Jaehwan doesn't seem to like that.”

“Sorry…” Hongbin muttered and it sounded sincere. “I really have been busy, but I'll try to be home more…” she felt like he forced himself to say that, but she wasn’t going to push it any further.

“You don't need to push yourself. Just do what you have to, I'm fine alone.” She said before turning her head to look out the window, she could feel an ache in her chest. She missed talking with her brother and playing with him like when they were kids, but everything is different now. She never thought they'd be this distant after growing up. Her once fun and playful brothers were now serious and hardworking with their careers. They have no time for her anymore. She didn’t realize how cruel life could be. She's alone once again.

The car filled with more silence and remained that way until they pulled up to a large house, it was pretty big and she wondered if it was a borderline mansion. It definitely gave off that rich vibe. Who are their friends?! She followed him inside quietly. After taking her shoes off she noticed her brother had already headed off without her, abandoning her at the front entrance on her own. “Hongbin?” She asked softly first, wondering if he was close by. “Hongbin?” She said a bit louder. No reply. No Hongbin. That really made that lonely ache in her chest hurt worse. Why would he do this when she doesn't know this place or the people? She turned and faced the wall so she could compose herself but the tears were already welling up in her eyes.

“Excuse me!” She heard a familiar voice ask. “Are you here for the gathering? Did you come along with someone here?” She slowly turned and saw Won Woo's friend Soonyoung standing there with a friendly smile.

“H-Hoshi?” She faced him quickly.

“Oh, it's you!” He was pleasantly surprised. “What are you doing here?! Did you come with someone else? Wait, why are you crying?! What's wrong?!” He hurried over and cautiously reached out to rest a hand on her shoulder.

“Is that any way to treat your guests? Throwing questions left and right at her, jeez!” An unfamiliar male voice said in a deep scolding tone. He came into view around Soonyoung and greeted her with a kind smile. “Sorry about him, he was just concerned.”

“It's fine.” She assured the new face and looked to Soonyoung for help on introducing them. It took a moment but he eventually got the hint. He introduced her to his friend before introducing his friend to her. His name was Choi Seungcheol and he was a year older than them, particularly part of the hyung line that included Jeonghan and Jisoo. That meant he’d be in his second year of college. She learned he was the oldest in their large group of friends and like the leader. He was someone they could lean on and talk to, like an older brother figure. She wondered what that’s like and it made her emotions stir again. She managed to keep it together and hide it. Once introductions were out of the way, they asked if she was alright.

“I'm okay.” She gave a dismissive wave of her hand. “I actually came with one of my older brothers. He kinda ditched me and well, I'm not very good with new people.” It was the truth, while she didn’t want to give her brother a bad image, she believed telling the truth was better than lying.

“Ah, that's really rude!” Soonyoung frowned. “It's okay, I'm here, I'll show you around! This is my house after all.” He added with a bright smile and she looked at him in shock.

“You live here?!”

“Yes!” He chuckled. “My parents are currently traveling around the globe and so my older sister and I watch over the house along with her fiancé.”

“Oh, wow…” Ji Min was in awe, what a unique situation. She wondered if Won Woo was able to bond with Soonyoung over the fact their parents aren’t usually around? She had a silly thought if he also took her place? Won Woo seemed annoyed by all his friends and not any in particular, but she was quite curious to see what their friendship was like in the near future.

“Seungcheol’s older sister Nami is friends with my sister Hana so that's why he's here. You can meet her and everyone else, they're in the kitchen eating snacks.” Soonyoung mentioned and gestured towards the large kitchen in the short distance.

“Oh, okay…” she visibly looked nervous and he couldn't help but find it adorable.

“I'll be with you the entire time, don't worry!” That helped somewhat and she started to follow him and Seungcheol to the kitchen. There were many adults and a few others their age. Jaehwan was among them and Ji Min had the urge to run over and cling to his side but resisted. It made her wonder why he didn’t come to get her instead of Hongbin.

“Noona~!” Soonyoung called out to his older sister and gained her attention. She was talking among the other older girls like herself and they turned to face him. They were all beautiful and Ji Min couldn’t help but feel a bit intimidated by it. “Meet a new friend of mine!” He beamed with his 10:10 eye smile.

“Hello, it’s nice to meet you!” His sister greeted and Ji Min introduced herself to them. They were 26-year-old Kwon Hana, 24-year-old Choi Nami (Seungcheol’s older sister), 26-year-old Chae Luna (Ji Min wonders if she’s related to Soo Min somehow?), and 28-year-old Kim In-Hye who goes by Ivy. “You’re so pretty!” Hana complimented and embarrassed the poor girl who gave a nervous laugh, she thought the same towards them but was too shy to say it back. “You have a good eye, Hoshi.” She winked to her younger brother.

“Noona!” He blushed and tried to laugh it off. “Anyways, I’ll introduce you to the others!” He gestured for Ji Min to follow him to the other side of the room while the older girls giggled and cooed at how adorable he was when he was flustered. Seungcheol ended up staying behind with his sister, Nami. Ji Min felt bad that she couldn’t properly talk to them, but she had a feeling she’d get to later on.

When the two made it to the other side, he started to introduce her to the next group of adults, he started with 28-year-old Jung Taekwoon, Hana’s fiancé. “Good evening, I hope Soonyoung hasn’t caused you any trouble?” He asked in a soft voice and Ji Min was surprised, she had expected a deeper voice. She watched him look at her apologetically before shifting into a glare when he glanced at Soonyoung.

“I’m not!” Soonyoung defended. “And it’s Hoshi!” He complained and pouted. They watched Taekwoon snicker and reach out to ruffle the blonde’s hair, which Soonyoung tried to dodge but failed. The guy standing next to them let out a loud laugh and commented on their antics. There was the deep voice Ji Min was expecting.

“Aren’t they amusing?” He asked, his question directed at Ji Min. She quietly nodded with a small giggle. He then introduced himself as 25-year-old Kim Wonshik. He also introduced his younger cousin, 20-year-old Han Sanghyuk. “That’s right, he already graduated.” The older frowned. “I’m sure he can still tell you about the school you’re attending, right?”

“Sure, not a problem.” Hyuk managed a kind smile. “So… it’s a high school, and you know high schools. The end.” He said before finishing with a smile, his lips thinned into a straight line. He was suddenly elbowed in the side by Wonshik who scolded him about his unhelpful description. “What more is there to say about that living hell?” The younger pouted and rubbed his side.

“It’s fine!” Ji Min assured him. “I actually graduated back in February.” She corrected.

“Really? You look younger than that.” Wonshik seemed puzzled but apologetic for assuming.

“I’ll be 19 in September.” She explained and he nodded, understanding. “But I know what you mean. High school really was a living hell.” She gave a pained laugh and the two worried about her.

“Well, no worries, I have a cousin about your age, her name is Ji Ah.” Hyuk explained. “She couldn't make it tonight since she already had other plans with her girl friends. But I’m sure you’ll get to meet her soon.”

“Alright, I look forward to it.” She said a bit nervous. So far, the girls she’s met have been really nice, but there was always a chance for that to change the more she meets them. “Uhm… Hoshi?” She gave a sheepish chuckle and looked for his help, she had nothing else to say and neither did the other two.

“Will he survive Jung Taekwoon’s teasing?” Hyuk snickered and pointed at the mentioned adult holding Soonyoung in a headlock and telling him to try and break free. Luckily, he wasn’t holding him too hard, but poor Soonyoung seemed at a lost on how to break free until he glanced up at Ji Min.

“Why don’t you slip through his hold?” She said and saw the older male slowly smile at her suggestion. Soonyoung managed to slip through the adult’s arms and broke free after Ji Min’s useful hint. His face lit up with a victorious smile when he realized it.

“Took you long enough,” Taekwoon muttered and nudged him towards Ji Min. “Next time you might not be so lucky to have someone helping you out like that.” Soonyoung only pouted, he hated how his sister’s fiancé practically embarrassed him in front of Ji Min, the new girl. “Look out for him?” He asked Ji Min with a hint of a chuckle.

“S-Sure!” Ji Min nodded and tried to conceal a chuckle of her own, how could she look out for him when she couldn’t look out for herself? She tried to shake that thought out of her mind, she didn’t want to think about it now. She noticed Soonyoung frowned at her, like a betrayed puppy. While she couldn’t help but laugh, she did feel a bit bad for him. “It’s okay, sometimes our reflexes are slow.” She said in hopes to cheer him up.

“Or sometimes they’re always slow,” Hyuk added on with a snicker and Wonshik almost laughed but caught himself when Ji Min looked their way.

“Honestly, Sanghyuk, how rude!” The older tried to save himself by throwing his cousin under the bus and shook his head while clicking his tongue. Tsk Tsk Tsk. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m going this way.” He pointed and escaped off to join Taekwoon and the other girls. Hyuk scoffed and looked betrayed while Ji Min giggled and raised a brow when he pouted at her.

“Moving on!” Soonyoung blurted out and grabbed Ji Min by her wrist and started to drag her away from Hyuk, who was left confused about that suddenly.

Soonyoung introduced her to another group of older girls and one close to their age, the same age as Hyuk. 27-year-old Ahn Hyo Jin, aka LE, seemed intimidating to Ji Min at first but she warmed up to the new girl just fine and displayed her kind and caring side, like a caring auntie. Ji Min was amused, all she really ever had was her parents and her brother, she never got to experience having an uncle or an aunt before.

“If you ever need anything, you can always call me!” LE patted Ji Min’s cheek gently while cooing at the young girl, her young appearance made it hard not to dote on the girl, almost like she pitied her for being new in a big scary town all on her own, it was a bit dramatic and she was quickly scolded by 28-year-old Heo Solji nearby who told her not to push it and overwhelm the young girl with her antics.

Though, Solji ended up mothering Ji Min when she pulled her into her side, like a mother bear protecting her cub! “Moving to a new city is always hard. If you ever feel lost, just know you can come to us! We’ll help you!” Ji Min really appreciated their kind words and that lonely feeling she had before was slowly vanishing. Even if she didn’t have her brothers, there was going to be someone else there, right?

“Please excuse them.” 26-year-old Seo Hyerin said when greeting Ji Min after LE and Solji finally let her go. “They’re at that stage in their life when the dote on any younger dongsaeng if they can…” that made sense, maybe. “I honestly think Solji-unnie is ready to settle down and start a family.” They could see Solji doting on Soonyoung just then, squishing his cheeks and asking if he ate enough today. It was adorable and Ji Min smiled. Like a mother caring for her child, she wasn’t entirely sure what that felt like anymore… to have a mother figure. “I’m sure if my younger sister Ae-Cha was here, they’d end up stealing her after this gathering. Thank god for date night and her boyfriend.”

“Oh, I met Ae-Cha earlier this week.” Ji Min admitted. She could really see the resemblance now that the older mentioned the younger girl. Of course, they’re related!

“Have you? She’s adorable, isn’t she?” Hyerin cooed and Ji Min nodded, agreeing. “She’s everyone’s favorite! Even our parents admit it!” She laughed but didn’t seem too bothered by it. That made Ji Min think about her own parents and if they had favorites? If they didn’t have time for her, surely they don’t have time for her brothers either, so they most likely don’t have favorites, right?

Sure, her parents managed to get in a few calls to her, but it was mostly voicemails since she would often miss their calls due to studying or dance practice. Once in a blue moon, they’d come home while she was still awake and they’d have a quick meal together and talk about her studies and how dance practice was. They were her parents, but over time, they started to feel less and less like her parents and more like longtime friends visiting after a short while. She only wondered how soon her parents would take their vacation days before college starts and she would be the one who doesn’t have time for them.

Thinking about her family and how distant they’ve become, she's noticed how everyone seemed close here at the gathering, almost like a family in a way. They all knew each other in some way or another. It was nice. She could feel the good energy from it and it slowly started to warm her heart. She only hoped this was how Won Woo could feel when he’s with his friends too?

Ji Min was shocked to find out Hyerin was much older than her, she was fooled into thinking she was Junghwa’s age, 20. A true baby face! “I get that a lot!” The older chuckled. “But I think I’m a kid at heart, too.” Ji Min agreed, she believed those feelings would never really die when you grow up.

25-year-old Ahn Hani, step-sisters with LE, came forward to introduce herself since LE and Solji were smothering Soonyoung with their affection, to the point the poor guy was reaching out to Hyerin for help. She only watched with amusement. “Aren’t they funny?” Hani asked to Ji Min who couldn’t help but giggle and agree. “He’s not that cute. I’m cuter.” The older pouted and puffed out her cheeks while watching the others messing with Soonyoung. Ji Min was entertained by her. She seemed to get along with Ji Min a lot, she was funny and tomboyish. She learned that she is a co-worker of Jaehwan’s. She was surprised but glad Jaehwan had a fun co-worker to work with. She can't imagine how boring it must get at work some days. Hani couldn’t take Soonyoung’s pleas for help anymore and saved him only to take his place.

“Unnie is a handful.” 20-year-old Park Junghwa muttered with a small laugh when she stepped over to greet Ji Min. She was really sweet and friendly and Ji Min honestly liked her, she was easy to talk to and be around. “But as they said before, if you ever need help, you can count on us.” They exchanged contacts to keep in touch after this. While Ji Min connected with Soo Min over Kpop when they first met, she seemed to connect with Junghwa for no particular reason, she just felt calm and safe around the older girl, like an older sibling, like a sister she never got to have. The feeling was starting to become overwhelming until Soonyoung interrupted with perfect timing.

“It was really nice meeting you all!” Ji Min managed to say before Soonyoung dragged her off to meet one final person. She understood he had enough of that group and just wanted to be free. Ji Min couldn’t help but giggle, this evening sure turned eventful, but it was also going to fast and possibly making her dizzy. She still hadn’t eaten dinner yet.

“Obviously, I don’t need to introduce you to your own brothers, right? So, there’s only one last person to introduce you to!” He explained and they headed off into the living room where her brothers were talking to a familiar face that suddenly approached her with open arms.

“We meet again, JiJi!” The older man beamed and grabbed her into a bone crushing hug. It’s been a while since she heard someone call her by that nickname, other than Mingyu who suddenly called her that yesterday after picking up Seokmin.

“Ah, Mr. Cha, please be careful!” Soonyoung panicked. “I think you snapped her spine!” He worried when they heard a pop. Mr. Cha let go and examined her for any injuries while she caught her breath, he knocked the wind out of her.

“I'm confused, do you know each other already?” Soonyoung pointed between them.

“Yes, we go way back!” Mr. Cha explained with a wide smile. “Back in Changwon, we used to attend the same dance studio for a few years before I made the move to Seoul for college.”

“You dance?!” Soonyoung blurted out and faced Ji Min who was startled. “Me too!”

“Do you?!” She was shocked and mirrored his expression. It’s also been a while since she talked to anyone about it because she really didn’t have anyone but Won Woo. Even now that she arrived, they hadn’t really talked much about it, and it was mainly her fault because she didn’t bring it up. He didn’t seem to bring it up either. She could remember how much he didn’t like going to dance practice but put up with it. Now that he finally graduated high school, she bet he quit since it wasn’t required anymore as an after-school program. But she doesn’t know anything quite yet, it was only her speculation. Reuniting with Hakyeon was nostalgic and finding out Soonyoung is a dancer himself, this was exciting.

“Ah! That's right, now that you're in Seoul, you must attend my very own dance studio!” 28-year-old Cha Hakyeon said with excitement. They could even see the sparkle in his eyes, fitting for the owner of Starlight Dance Studio.

“I definitely will!” She smiled and nodded. She was so caught up in the moment talking about dance and went on to focus on catching up with Hakyeon and getting to know Soonyoung and his dancing past more. She shared some stories of her own but excluded the ones about Won Woo. She didn’t feel like talking about him at the moment, only because she’d rather not get emotional and start crying in front of them. But overall, she had a good feeling about this, she had a feeling that maybe her move to Seoul wasn’t so bad in the end. She was looking forward to meeting new friends after this.

Because she was so occupied with her chat with Hakyeon and Soonyoung, she didn’t notice how much time had passed and they were interrupted when her brother Jaehwan mentioned they should get going. It seemed bittersweet for her, but she managed to hide it. She told Soonyoung she’d talk to him again soon and would meet with Hakyeon at his studio sometime soon as well. Everyone told the Lee siblings their goodbyes and were especially kind and sweet to Ji Min before they left. She felt good about that, but it wasn’t enough to keep those bitter feelings from earlier away, they started to surface when she was faced on which brother she should leave with. She was surprised Hongbin even stayed that long and even waited for her to make a decision. But she could tell he didn’t want her picking him, so she picked Jaehwan and Hongbin got into his own car without a word and left.

“I’m sorry, Ji Min.” Jaehwan apologized when he saw his sister stand there and watch their brother disappear off down the road into the night. He was most likely avoiding home again. “I thought it would be good if I sent Hongbin to get you for this gathering. I can see it didn’t go as well as I had hoped it would.”

“It’s fine.” She said and avoided his eyes. She could force a smile, but there was no doubt that he could see it in her eyes, the sadness, and pain.

“It’s not fine.” He said quickly. “You two can’t keep going on like that?”

“It won’t change if we don’t change.” She muttered and looked up to the night sky. Despite the city lights, she could make out the stars and thought how she’d like to go camping with Won Woo before summer is over and stargaze like they used to back then. She cherished the fond memories this whole time. Just then, there was a shooting star. Please… can things just get better? She thought and closed her eyes. Can things just go right for once?

☙✨💖✨❧

Please, can’t everyone just be happy?

“What are you doing?” Won Woo snapped out of it when he heard Mingyu ask him that. He was currently standing out in his friend’s backyard, staring up at the night sky by himself. He had just witnessed a shooting star and made a wish on it. He had been feeling nostalgic, looking up at the night sky like that. Memories of when he’d stargaze with Ji Min during their bonding camping trips back in Changwon came to mind and he got lost in the feelings he remembered. He was calm and at peace just lying next to her on the blanket spread out, only a few inches between them. It could be disorienting just staring up at the sky like that, almost like you could fall into it, but knowing she was right there beside him was enough to keep him grounded every time.

He had come out for some fresh air after winning SEVENTEEN rounds of Mortal Kombat against his friends, he was invincible and undefeated, but his hands started to cramp and he needed a break, so he said he’d step outside for a moment. His friend Mingyu thought maybe Won Woo was getting a bit drained from all the social interactions this evening, he doesn’t come out much to begin with. It could be a lot for him. He wanted to come out and check on him, like a good friend.

“Nothing.” Won Woo muttered and looked back up at the night sky. For some odd reason, he felt connected to that shooting star just now, almost like he wasn’t alone in that moment, almost like he was 15 again with Ji Min by his side, looking at the same night sky as him. What could she be doing tonight? He wondered. Could she be admiring the stars, too? It nearly made him emotional, he was the type that sometimes wished to go back in time when he was the happiest. When he’d miss the feeling of not being so alone and having someone there, by his side, always. Perhaps he was feeling sentimental about it and fought the sting in the back of his eyes. I don’t want to cry. I’m not sad... “The stars are pretty tonight.”

“Wow, hyung, didn’t take you to be so fond of stars.” Mingyu snickered and earned a glare from his friend. “I agree, they’re pretty!”

“You know, I used to stargaze with Ji Min back then, during our camping trips in the summer.” Won Woo explained and noticed Mingyu stared at him, his mouth open in shock. “What?”

“Are you sure you two weren’t dating back then?!” His tall friend hurried over and whispered his question, so he wouldn’t draw attention over to them standing outside. “Stargazing, camping trips… was it just the two of you?!”

“No, there were other students on the trip, but we’d sneak away and it’d just be the two of us.”

“Oh. My. God.” Mingyu blurted out in English. “Oh my god!”

“What?!” Won Woo was getting annoyed.

“Nothing, nothing! Just… wow. You two were that close?”

“Problem?”

“It’s just… you never took me camping and stargazing before!” Mingyu looked like a kicked puppy, his lower lip jutting out like he was getting ready to cry out of betrayal.

“Why the hell did I even tell you about this! God!” Won Woo was embarrassed and turned away. “Forget I said any of that. If you tell the others, I will strangle you.”

“Relax, your love affair is safe with me.” Mingyu teased and only grinned at the death glare he got from the older. “Honestly, Won Woo… did you use to like Ji Min? I’m just curious, that’s all!”

“Why should I answer that?” Won Woo narrowed his eyes.

“I just want to understand your friendship with her, that’s all!” Mingyu defended. “I’m not going to tell anyone! I promise!” He watched Won Woo look back to the others inside through the sliding glass door before looking back to Mingyu with a nervous expression. “You did?” Won Woo didn’t really answer, but Mingyu took that as a yes. He concluded he’s a shy boy. “Makes sense.”

“It’s hard to describe, but I know I feel something when I see her. I could just be happy to have her back by my side, maybe I just simply missed her a lot. Or maybe...” Won Woo seemed conflicted and confused. Like he wasn’t sure what he was truly feeling.

Despite all the romance movies he’s watched, and all the romance novels he read, he thinks he might know what he’s feeling, but he can’t really be so sure. It seems so obvious, yet, not so obvious. That first night, when they had dinner together, he felt like he knew what he wanted. But then the day after that, he wondered if he wasn’t going about it right and if he was getting mixed signals from her and what he was feeling was mistaken for something else. He’s never looked at another girl and felt the things he feels when he looks at Ji Min, surely that means he’s feeling more than just merely missing his dance partner, his old friend.

“Love… if it’s meant to be, it will happen.” Mingyu gave him a warm smile. “You will know when the time comes.”

“And you know this, how?” He wasn’t surprised that Mingyu would call it love, he had been thinking the same thing.

“It’s not rocket science!” Mingyu pouted. “Aren’t you the one reading romance novels?!”  

“Is there someone you like, Mingyu?” Won Woo asked instead, just as curious.

“Not really.” He shrugged. “I’m not really interested in that stuff, I have my studies to focus on.”

“What a shock. Responsible student Kim Mingyu.” Won Woo snickered. “Good boy.” He teased and Mingyu laughed along with him. He once felt the same as Mingyu, but things change. He was sure things would change for Mingyu in time as well. And he hoped everyone would get a happy ending, too. “Well, it’s late. I should head home.”

“So soon?!” Mingyu frowned. “Can’t we play one more match?” He pleaded.

“Next time.” Won Woo laughed. “Goodnight, Gyu.” He waved and started to head home through the backyard gate, he wanted to avoid the others inside. Mingyu felt bad but special that Won Woo at least talks to him more than the others. I will keep your secret safe, I promise. He thought to himself and headed back inside. Their other friends asked where Won Woo went off to and he told them he had to go home. No one really complained about it, actually.

“Good, at least someone else can win for once!” One of them said with a sassy tone, his expression was bitter and hair messy from trying to push it out of his face while battling others. “Prepare to lose to the hands of the almighty Boo!” Everyone just busted out laughing.

Boo: It’s my crown now~!

Won Woo: But it looks like the crown doesn’t want you, though…

Boo: … go home.

Won Woo: Okay. Lol.

☙✨💖✨❧

When Ji Min returned home, she went straight to her room without a word to her brother Jaehwan. It was clear Hongbin didn’t come home, just like she expected. She had nothing to say to him after what happened earlier at the Kwon House. She didn’t bother changing and flopped onto her bed face first. She remained that way until she couldn’t help it and reached for her phone on her nightstand next to her bed and pulled up a certain contact. Jerk Face. Seeing his picture on the screen was enough to calm her down a little and even made her smile. She tapped on the text message button and started to text him despite he probably wasn’t awake, it was pretty late by now. At least he’d see it in the morning.

Ji Min: I met some of my brothers' friends this evening… apparently, they're friends with your friends’ older siblings. It was nice but Hongbin was such a jerk… I hate him.

Ji Min:  Sorry, you’re probably already asleep… but I just had to tell you something.

Won Woo: Go ahead.

She almost dropped her phone on her face when she saw his reply. She hadn’t expected that and it startled her!

Ji Min: You’re awake!

Ji Min:

Won Woo: I couldn’t sleep.

Won Woo:

Ji Min: Party too hard with your friends or something?

I bet you look like a hot mess now, don't you? Haha!

Ji Min:

Won Woo: You're right about the hot part 😉

Won Woo:

Ji Min:

Ji Min: Well, it is summer...

Won Woo:

Ji Min:

Won Woo: What did you want to tell me?

Ji Min: It’s nothing.

Won Woo: Nothing?

Ji Min: I don’t want to talk about it actually…

Okay?

Won Woo: Alright.

Won Woo: Are you going to be okay, though?

Ji Min: I don’t know

She didn’t want to talk about it, but she ended up doing so anyway.

Ji Min: I didn’t think it was going to be like this when

I moved here. I didn’t think

I was going to be this lonely…

Won Woo: I know how you feel.

Ji Min: Does it ever get better?

At this point, she felt like crying. The emotions were just too much. She really felt lonely now. Thinking about how everyone looked like a big happy family, it seemed more like her brothers’ big happy family without her. She felt like she might not really have a place there. And so if she didn’t have a place there, where can she go? She can’t intrude on Won Woo’s big happy family with his friends, and so she really had no one, did she?

Won Woo: It does. Eventually.

Won Woo: I know it’s gonna sound sappy,

but you still have me. You’re not alone.

So, don’t stress about it, okay?

She didn’t expect him to say something like that and she stared at the screen for a few moments. Maybe that’s true, she has him. And that could be enough for her.

Ji Min: Thanks. I suppose you’re right.

At least we have each other. I’m glad.

Won Woo: Exactly.

Ji Min: Sorry again for bothering you so late at night.

You can go to sleep now.

Ji Min:

Won Woo: Will you be able to sleep?

Ji Min: I’ll try.

Won Woo: Good luck with that.

Ji Min: Thanks. Goodnight, Won Woo~❤

Won Woo:

Won Woo: Night

After texting Won Woo, Ji Min felt better, but she knew it would only be temporary and she’d eventually have to tell her brothers how she feels about the situation. But for now, she was going to ignore it until she’s more confident to confront them because she didn’t feel like she could do it now with her thinning skin.

Shortly after, she was able to fall asleep.

Meanwhile...

Down the street in Won Woo’s bedroom, he stared at the last text he got from Ji Min. He was staring specifically at the heart she sent. Does this mean...? He wondered. He knew maybe he shouldn’t jump to conclusions or assume anything but it was odd. Maybe she didn’t notice she put that? But how do you accidentally send a heart like that? He was really confused yet hopeful right now and a bit flustered. He started to recall what she said earlier on that bench, how she mentioned about loving someone and how love doesn’t always have to be romantic, it could be platonic. Yeah… it doesn’t have to mean that. He nodded to himself. She just really cares. She always cared… a smile curled at the corner of his lips. “Miss Scaredy Cat.”

Chapter Five!

Sweet dreams, Won Woo~ You had a long day~! Lol