I have been observing Yoojin and the way she acted around Howon. I've had my suspicions since that day I've seen her blush under Howon's gaze but you can never be too sure about things. She had blushed again this morning when she helped Howon to adjust his shirt collar and I think she's avoiding him to a certain extent. 

Well, I didn't want to stress myself out with such a groundless wild guessing so I just put that thought aside and tried to concentrate during lessons. I swear Yoojin really needs to stop sleeping in classes because I can't be there to wake her up all the time. 

After school, I was in the photography room thinking about what to come up for the carnival showcase. I need something with a wow factor, something that everybody will be in awe of and remember my work. Maybe I'm aiming too high but I shouldn't aim too low as well. 

Maybe… maybe if I go see Yoojin, I'll have an idea. Without even thinking twice, I went to the art room next door. 

"Come in." Yoojin said through the door and I let myself in. When I noticed her being so focused on her art, I couldn't help but be as quiet as I can be so as not to break her concentration. If I thought she looked cute when she's trying to give her death glare and all, I think she looks even better when focusing. There's a certain charm to Yoojin when she's focusing on her work. The way her eyebrows knit together when something isn't right and the way she relaxes as she concentrates on her drawing. 

Captivated by this girl sitting in front of me, I carefully went to the side to take a candid shot of her. 

Snap. 

Yoojin immediately turned to the source of the sound and she totally flared up seeing my camera. "Yah! Delete that! I wasn't ready for a photo!" She protested. 
 

Snap. 

"Yah! Kim Myungsoo! Stop it!" She reached out for my camera but I held it high so that she couldn't get it. Despite me holding it up high, I still managed to check the photos that I've taken and I couldn't help but laugh to myself. She looked amazing. So incredibly amazing. The first photo brought out her serious side and she's indeed charming. The second photo was more of a funny one since she was trying to stop me from taking more photos. Nevertheless, I think she still looked good. 
 

"You look… fine." I lied. She looks more than just fine. 

"Let me see!" She immediately reached out for my camera but I reacted fast enough and held it out of her reach again.

"You're going to delete it if I show you!" I protested. 

"But it was a candid shot! I look horrible in candid shots!" Yoojin whined but I wasn't going to fall for her cute trap again. I'm keeping these photos anyways. 

"Fine," Yoojin raised her hands in surrender. "Just make sure those photos never see the daylight ever again."

Oh don't worry Yoojin, they won't. I smiled to myself at the thought of those photos again. 

"Don't think just because you're cute I forgive you." Yoojin said and she picked up her pencil, to which I thought she was going to throw it at me but she didn't and went back to drawing. Wait, did she just say I'm cute? 
 

My heart started beating rapidly at the thought of Yoojin thinking that I'm cute. "So you think I'm cute?" I asked carefully, trying not to sound too hopeful. 

Yoojin dropped her pencil at my question and shifted in her seat. "You're distracting me." She added coolly.

I'll break your facade Jung Yoojin. Watch me. 

I then went and plopped down right in front of her with my palms resting on my cheeks, trying to be as cute as I can be. I know I'm not Myungho's level of cute but I do have some aegyo in me. How did I know if I succeeded or not? Well, Yoojin was shifting uncomfortably in her seat and I assume it's because I was distracting her. So it's working. 

She avoided looking at me at all costs and tried her best to concentrate on her drawing. The lesser attention she gave me, the more bored I got. I should just let her off the hook this time. Which is why, I suggested to go watch Howon dance instead. It was the perfect time to get some photos of him dancing too and maybe I could even use one of them for the upcoming carnival showcase. 

I have never seen Howon dance before but I've heard from the others that he's a devil on stage. He goes up there like he owns it and dances his heart out like it is his last stage. 

We arrived promptly at the studio room that he's practicing in and both Yoojin and I saw him dancing together with Hyuna. It was known that the both of them will be partnering up for the showcase but Yoojin doesn't seem too happy about it. Howon and Hyuna's couple dance had quite a lot of skinship and I'm pretty sure I saw Yoojin wince whenever they had contact. Unknowingly, I didn't take any photos. I just felt that it would be sensitive for Yoojin so I just stood there and watched the two dancers move in sync. 

When the music was about to come to an end, I felt a bit of regret for suggesting this in the first place. Yoojin didn't look too happy about the skinship that the both of them had and she almost had a scowl on her face. The two dancers stopped in motion as they did their ending pose, which was really close for the both of us to watch in comfort. What really surprised me was when Hyuna suddenly moved closer towards Howon and then she gave him a kiss. 

My eyes widened in disbelief. I immediately looked to Yoojin for a reaction but she was covering to prevent herself from making any sound. It registered in my head right then. Yoojin likes Howon. As much as I've had my suspicions, this just confirms it. Without saying a word, Yoojin made a break for it. 

"Jin! Yoojin!" I called out after her and chased after her. For someone who isn't athletic like her, she sure ran away pretty fast. Yoojin made a beeline for the girls' restroom and locked herself in the cubicle. I stopped right outside the restroom. I couldn't go in like that, it would be rude if there were any students in there. 

I could hear her crying and it broke my heart into a million pieces. Yoojin is a person with a bright and cheerful smile, it pained me to see her crying like this and I was anxious to comfort her. But not with her hiding in the girls' restroom. 

"Jung Yoojin! Jung Yoojin!" I called out for her. Her sobs were still audible even though it sounds like she's trying to keep them low. Gosh, I can't do this. I can't just stand outside here and listen to her cry her heart out. I have to do something. 

"Is there anybody else in there? I'm coming in!" I shouted in the restroom. There was no reply and I took it as a cue to enter. 

With light footsteps, I mustered up the courage and walked right in. "Jin? Yoojin?" I said softly despite me being worried as hell. I almost shivered with worry but I steadied myself because what Yoojin needs right now is someone to rely on. 

She didn't reply me but I could hear her sniffling away. She must have been really hurt by what we saw just now. I should never have suggested to watch Howon practice. That was the worst idea ever in the history of horrible ideas. What was I thinking? 
 

Damn it, Kim Myungsoo. You and your horrible ideas. 

Yoojin had locked herself right in a cubicle and there was nothing I could do so I headed the cubicle next to her. I set down the toilet seat and stood on it to give me additional height so that I could climb over. "Jin-ah," I called out to her to let her know that I was going to climb over before I actually do so and scare her or something. 

Once I landed in front of her, she looked up at me with those sad eyes that turned red from crying. I automatically reached out for her face and wiped her tears away. Please don't cry anymore Yoojin. Without knowing it, I hugged her. I just wanted to stop her from crying her heart out. 
 

"Let's get out of here okay? I can't stay in the girl's restroom." I held her up and kept her close to me. Please stop crying Yoojin. I hate to see you this way. 

I'd led Yoojin to an empty classroom since I'm guessing that she doesn't want anyone to see her like this. Yoojin has always been a strong girl, or at least in my impression and she looks like she'd hate people to see her break down like this, being so vulnerable. 

My gaze then shifted to her messy fringe. Her hair was all over the place and she looked like a wreck. My hands reached out to tug those loose strands behind her ears and fix her messy hair. "Jin… are you okay?" 
 

"I… I…" She stuttered and her eyes were darting around. Yoojin doesn't need to say anything but I know she's thinking of that moment where Hyuna kissed Howon.  Oh Yoojin, I'm so sorry…
 

"You like him don't you?" I said softly. Yoojin froze. Her gaze stopped darting around and she focused on me. "You like Howon." I said it for her. 

Her eyes welled up with even more tears and I could tell she was fighting back those tears. She looked at me, reading my eyes. I have never seen Yoojin this upset before. 

"It just happened." She whispered. 

I immediately pulled her into a hug, hoping that my embrace would bring her some comfort and make her feel better. "It's okay. It's okay. It's okay." I whispered softly in her ears, as if by repeating that it would become a reality. 

"Hyuna is a much better girl anyways." 

I pulled away. I could feel the anger rising in me but I couldn't bring myself to get angry at her, not when she's so upset right now. "Don't you ever dare think you are less worthy for anyone. You are you and people like you for you. It's not about who is prettier, it's about what's inside. You hear me?" She needs to understand this. Yoojin is an amazing girl and she doesn't even know that herself. She's the better one. Inside and out. Such a beautiful girl on the inside, there's no need to look at the outside anymore. 
 

"It's going to be okay." I whispered to her once more, crossing my fingers that she'll believe me. As much as I like her, she likes Howon and there's nothing I can do about it but hope that everything is going to be okay. 

-- 

When we got back home, my mind was filled with thoughts of Yoojin. About what had happened earlier in the day and I also started to worry about how she's going to deal with it alone at home. I couldn't stop thinking about her, not even during dinner time. After dinner, Myungho was bugging me to read him some story but I couldn't pay attention to reading him the story. My mind was filled with thoughts of Yoojin and I began to worry. 

"Mianhe Myungho-ah, hyung will read this to you another time okay? Now hyung has to study. Go find something else to do okay?" I tried to coo my little brother into doing something else. He gave a pout that I was just about to regret because who can resist this little boy. He's sneaky that way. He knows he's cute and he uses it to get his way. What a sneaky little five year old. 

Anyways, Myungho decided to head back to his room after I promised I'd tuck him to bed tonight with a bedtime story. Immediately grabbing my phone, I sent a message to Yoojin. 
 

Jin-ah, are you feeling better?

I set my phone down and waited nervously for her reply. 
 

Yeah... I guess so.

Her reply came fast and I immediately picked up my phone and started typing away. 
 

What do you mean you guess so? If you're not okay, you can let it out you know. I will be here. 

I'm not even kidding. I will be here for her. 
 

I wonder if he's dating her. 

My heart dropped. If Howon is really dating Hyuna then Yoojin will be hurt. But that will mean that Howon wouldn't be interested in Yoojin. And then that would mean…
 

I sighed. Ultimately, Yoojin would be hurt because what already happened this afternoon. I pondered over that for some time. My fingers were typing and then retyping the words. I didn't know what to say to make her feel better. Is there anything I can say to make her feel better? Because I swear I would do anything to make that happen. If only I knew what to do. 

It felt like forever and I was pacing back and forth in my room. Well, if Yoojin wants to know if Howon is dating or not, I'll help her find out. That way even if Howon is dating, I'll find a way to break that news to her without hurting her much. Right, this sounds like a plan. And so, I sent a text to Howon. 

Hey, how did your day go? 
 

Well, I didn't want to ask him explicitly but I'm guessing if his day went well and he's in a good mood, it may be because he is really dating. If his day didn't go well, then he may not be. Either way, I'll start with something small and normal first before confirming anything. 
 

I didn't have to wait long and Howon replied. 

Hey Myung, it's been a really bad day today. I don't know what to think right now, everything is in a mess. Anyways, I shan't let my troubles bother you. Have a good rest tonight. 
 

I sighed. I wanted to press on and ask Howon about it but I gave up. He's having a bad day too. What more could I do but be there for him as a friend? If Howon doesn't want to let me know then there's no point pressing on as well. It'll do him no good. 
 

Okay, you have a good rest too bro. 
 

I sent it to him. If he's having a bad day, he's probably not dating Hyuna… right? I really can't tell anything from that response but I suddenly felt bad. What kind of horrible person am I to try and figure out Howon's dating life when he's going through troubles himself? Gosh, I feel horrible. 

Sighing, I typed a response for Yoojin. 

 I don't know either, but it seems like he's not having a great day as well. 

It wasn't fair for him if I were to probe on despite him having a rough day. It's just not fair, so I decided to let it go. I know that Yoojin and Howon are the bestest of friends so I hope Yoojin is able to cheer him up. Worry about his love life later Yoojin, be there for him as a friend right now, I think that's what Howon would have wanted too. 
 

(Chapter 14) 

-- 

So I’m finding out more and more about Yoojin as each day passes. Even that time when the money she was collecting for the class grad trip got stolen, I had learned more about her. 

In fact, I know for sure that she loves Shinee down to the bone. And that she likes Shinee's green rain the best. I happened to see that song as one of her most played songs when we used her computer after she sent Jieun and Jooyeon out. After that, I went home to check out that song that Yoojin loves the most.

Last week, Yoojin was crying her heart out as she had to deal with so many things at once. The money she was collecting got stolen, Howon offered to pay and she thought that it was because Hyuna's family couldn't afford to pay a second time et cetera. She had told me all about it but she started crying again.

I ran over as fast as I could once I heard her cry over the phone and then I soothed her with her favourite song—Shinee's green rain. And I realized that it worked. That song is Yoojin's song from now on. If there's anything that upsets her, I'll be sure to sing Shinee's green rain for her. 

--

This week, we had our midterms and I'm glad to say it's finally over and we can all heave a sigh of relief. Well, more than just a sigh of relief for others because Yoojin immediately let out an ear piercing scream next to me and I almost jumped ten meters apart from her. She just laughed at my reaction and I noticed that her laugh seemed more relaxed now that exams are over. 

"Come on! I can't wait!" Yoojin said excitedly and pulled me by my hand down the hallways. I was stunned by her action but I followed her nevertheless. Feeling my heart pumping harder against my chest, I stared at her hands. 

You've got to stop getting your hopes up, Kim Myungsoo. Yoojin likes Howon. 

After we met up with the rest of the others, the six of us headed out of school to a mall nearby. High school students don't do much besides studying so I guess this is the perfect place to hang out after exams. The six of us took a super long time to decide what to eat because everybody had different tastebuds and wanted different things but Yoojin said that she was craving for jjajangmyun. So we settled for Chinese food in the end. 

Now, the thing about Chinese food is that I do like it but it's really oily and my poor weak stomach cannot handle the oiliness. In the end, I'll just end up getting indigestion. But since Yoojin really wanted to have jjajangmyun, I decided to not say anything and just go along with the crowd. 

As we waited for our food, Woohyun had asked about the exams and Yoojin groaned. She sounded like she was disappointed with herself and needed some words of encouragement. 

Yoojin actually studied really hard for this exam. I've seen her study and put in so much effort and hard work. I'm sure she'll do well. Hard work don't disappoint just like that.  I looked up at her and she was talking to Sunggyu since Sunggyu had been the one to help her when we were studying. Krystal had asked for my help and I couldn't bring myself to reject someone looking for help so I ended up helping Krystal with her studies than Yoojin. But at least she has Sunggyu to help her. 

When the food finally arrived, Yoojin's eyes lit up like a candle with a flame, dancing around happily. She immediately chucked mouth after mouth of noddles and I was worried that she may choke by accident. 

And then Yoojin started coughing. Oops, I shouldn't have thought anything like that right?

"Slow down Jin." Sunggyu started patting her back to stop her from coughing and before I could even do anything, there were two hands that stretched out to hand her a cup of water. Yoojin looked at the two outstretched hands and she hesitated. I could tell from the look of her eyes that she couldn't decide if she should take Howon's water or Woohyun's water. If she takes Howon's water, she's afraid the others will think of it as something else. But she wants to take the water he's offering her. 
 

Woohyun might not say it but from the looks of it, he cares for Yoojin and more than just in a friend way. Why do I know that? Because I see a little of me in him. And yeah, I won't deny it, I do feel something for this girl.

I noticed her dilemma and I took my cup of water for her instead, providing her a way out and to my surprise, she took mine instead. 

Everything then returned to normal after the whole "choosing whose water to take" fiesta and we continued with our lunch. I was starting to feel the after effects of having oily Chinese food churning down in my stomach and I decided to stop right there. If I eat any more of the jjajangmyun, I may just begin to vomit. I do admit, I have a weak stomach especially when it comes to oily food. 

After Yoojin finished her portion, she was busy eyeing mine and I knew what she's about to ask next.  "Myung, if you aren't going to finish it, can I have it?" 

"Yah, your appetite is insatiable. Can you stop pigging out?" Howon scolded her and Yoojin gave him a death glare. If I did mention it, I have to mention it again. Yoojin love giving these so called death glares but to me, they don't look like death glares. She look absolutely adorable when she's glaring so fiercely. 
 

"It's okay, I'm not that hungry anyways, Jin can have the rest." I passed my bowl of noodles to her. 
 

"Asa!" She cheered in excitement and I smiled at her cute reaction. Yes, I think she's adorable. It's nice to see her smile like this especially after what she's been through. First it was the missing class fund and next it was the stress from midterms. Now that it's all settled, or at least Howon volunteered to pay for the class grad trip, Yoojin could finally get a breather. 

We had watched a movie after eating and I could feel my stomach acting up at the oily food that I had just ate. I tried to hold it in until I get home to have some indigestion pills. 

When I got home, the first thing my mom said to me was, "Myungsoo-ah, why is your face so pale?" 

"Eh? Is it?" I touched my face and I felt myself heating up. This is a bad sign. 

"Hyung!" Myungho ran out of his room straight into my embrace and I picked him up. "You promised to read me this book!" My little brother held up the book I was supposed to read to him the other time but I didn't. 

My mom came over and took Myungho from my arms. "Myungho-ah, your hyung doesn't look too well, omma will read it to you okay?" 

Myungho nodded but he was giving me a pout. I pinched his cheeks lightly and gave him a silly face, to which he laughed. I patted his head and went back to my room. 

After that night, I had indeed fell sick. My mom kept nagging at me for knowing that I can't handle oily food and yet I still went to eat them. 

"Omma, everybody was okay with it. I couldn't be a spoilsport." I said. I think the one thing my mom fears the most is for me to not have any friends here in Seoul since we came from a small town. She gave me a look and handed me my medicine. There was nothing she could say because I've hit the bullseye. 

"Is it those friends that you've been hanging out a lot with?" She asked as she took the glass of water from me. 

"Neh ommoni. Your son actually has friends in Seoul. Don't worry about him too much okay?" I smiled at her. 

"I'd like to meet them all someday." My mom said as she patted my hair. "Especially this Yoojin girl. Every time you talk about her, your eyes light up." 

I froze. Was I that obvious at home? I did mention about the group to my family and told them a lot of things but I didn't expect myself to always be talking about Yoojin that even my mom noticed. 

I tried to play it cool in front of my mom and scratched the back of my head awkwardly. "She's one of my closest friends omma." 

My mom just smiled at me and left my room. "Sleep well, Myungsoo-ah." 

And the last thing I remember before I knocked out was smiling to myself with Yoojin's smiling face in my head.

--

The following week was the release of results but because I was still sick, I couldn't go to school. I texted Yoojin in the morning telling her that I couldn't make it for class before I crashed back on my bed. Anyways, today was just the collection of midterm results and then it'll be the grad trip to Busan. I can't be sick on that trip or else I wouldn't be able to enjoy myself so I have to get better now. 

My mom came into my room and at the same time, Yoojin replied my text. 

"Who's that?" My mom asked, with a sparkle in her eye and I could sense what she was thinking about. 

"Oh, I was just telling Yoojin I couldn't make it for school." I said casually as I sit up. My mom have been getting my medicine for me ever since I fell sick and I've been stuck in this bed with less energy than I usually have. 

"She sounds like a really nice girl." My mom suggested. 

I took my medicine while ignoring my mom's statement. I didn't want to let her know about my little crush on a certain special girl. After I took my medicine, I returned my mom the glass of water and hinted for her to leave soon. "Omma, you need to go to work soon." 

She made a "tsk" sound because I was so evidently avoiding to talk about Yoojin which ultimately did not satisfy her curiosity. Nevertheless, my mom left me alone in my room and I fell asleep not long after. 

I don't remember how long I've slept for but I remember waking up halfway because Myungho was hungry so he woke me up. I saw that my mom had already prepared lunch for him before she went out and all I had to do was to heat it up for him. I sat next to Myungho and watched him eat, with no appetite myself and so I went back to sleep after that. 

The next time I woke up was when my phone rang and I answered it without even looking at who the caller was. 

"Hello?" I said dreamily, as if I'm in a dream. 

"Myung!" That sweet voice resonated in my brain. I think I've been thinking too much about Yoojin that I'm even dreaming of her voice now? 

"Which one is your house? I'm near your neighbourhood but I realise I don't know your place." 

I immediately sat up. I don't think I've woken up with such a jump before. Yoojin is coming over?! I stumbled with my words but I managed to direct her to my place. As fast as I could, I changed out of my sleeping wear to something more decent and presentable to Yoojin. But I was too late. Before I could even dress properly, the doorbell rang. 

Quickly, I got dressed and rushed out of my room faster than when I was almost late for school. When I exited my room, I saw Myungho standing there facing Yoojin. "Noona! Are you hyung's girlfriend?" 

That's it. This Kim Myungho is so dead. 

"Yah! Kim Myungho!" I marched forward and glared at my little evil brother. Don't you ruin your hyung's image and chance like that. "Come in Jin." I said nicely to her and invited her in. 

My place isn't big or anything but it's good enough for my family. Warm and cosy, just like how my mom likes it. She likes things neat and in place, which is why my house would be a heaven to neat freaks. 

Yoojin walked in and looked around. I don't know why but I began to feel nervous at what Yoojin would think about my humble abode. Yet, there was someone who ruined everything. All the time. 

"So noona, are you hyung's girlfriend?" Myungho asked once again, considering how I didn't let Yoojin answer that question the first time. 

"Kim Myungho!" I scolded him. Couldn't you just let me off for once little bro? I promise I'll read you all the bedtime stories in the world but please don't do this. 

"Hyung, this is the first girl to visit our house! Is she the girl you say you've been hanging out with? So is she your girlfriend?" 
 

Oh this evil spawn. That's it. I'm not reading all the bedtime stories to you. 
 

Outraged, I immediately carried him up and covered his mouth so that he can't say anything else to embarrass me. Why does it have to be Yoojin that has to hear all this? 

"In your room you go! Go play with your toys or something." I smiled awkwardly at Yoojin and carried Myungho away who was trying to say something but I'm still covering his mouth. Once I brought Myungho in his room, I set him down and he gave me an angry stare. 
 

"Myungho-ah, I promise I'll buy you ice cream, no, whatever you want, so just stay here and play with your toys okay?" I tried to bribe him. 
 

Myungho pouted but the thought of me getting him something made him happy and so he obliged. I took his favourite racing cars and handed it to him. "There you go. Be a good boy arraso?" I patted his head and he nodded sweetly. At times like these, Myungho acts all cute and sweet but really, do not be fooled by those cute looks. 

"Yah, Myung, your brother is so cute!" Yoojin exclaimed and I almost choked on my own saliva. 

"He is not. And he talks a lot now so just ignore him please. And have a seat, I'll go get you something to drink." I immediately walked towards the kitchen so I didn't have to face her. I think I'll be embarrassed under her gaze. 

Without even giving me a chance to say anything or even do anything, Yoojin followed me to the kitchen and shot me a bunch of questions. "So am I really the first girl to visit? Did you mention about me to your family?" 
 

Well, she is the first girl to visit. The first friend of mine since I've moved to Seoul anyways. And yes, I did mention her to my family. I swear I'm about to die of embarrassment thinking about my mom grilling me about Yoojin. Trying not to give myself away, I poured a glass of water and handed it to her with a sigh. 

"Yes and yes. Happy?" 
 

"Oh my gosh, you really did? What did you say?!" Yoojin said with a very excited tone and I wondered why is she so excited about me mentioning her to my family. But then again, I remembered that she liked Howon. 

I leaned in close to her and whispered, "that's for me to know, and you to find out." She doesn't need to know this but my heart was beating rapidly. I don't know what sort of courage that was that I made such a bold move. Maybe it's because I'm sick. Yeah, that must be it. 

Anyways, Yoojin had came over because she's got my result slip with her. Surprisingly, I did quite well even though I came from a small town in the countryside. I wasn't even expecting much since I may be a top student back in that small town, but this is Seoul we're talking about. I don't expect to be topping anything in Seoul. 
 

Yoojin had asked me about how I've fallen sick and stuff like that but I just brushed it off as a minor indigestion. I couldn't tell her I couldn't eat Chinese food since she obviously have a huge love for jjajangmyun. The both of us were right onto the topic about the grad trip when suddenly, the door opened. 

"Myungsoo-ah! Myungho-ah! Omma—annyeonghaseyo!" My mom made her grand entrance. Uh-oh, I smell trouble. 

Yoojin immediately stood up and greeted my mom politely. "Annyeonghaseyo! I'm Jung Yoojin." 

My mom's eyes glistened. Who's the one whose eyes light up at the mention of Yoojin now? Not me. "Omo! So you are Jung Yoojin! It's so nice of you to visit Myungsoo when he's sick, no wonder Myungsoo says you are his best friend!"

I mentally face palmed myself, hoping that I could dig a hole right in my living room and hide there now. My mom can be embarrassing at times. 

"I—" Yoojin started, but my mom interrupted her.

"Do stay for dinner okay, I'm not taking a no for an answer! You know, Myungsoo never has friends over and I'm so worried he might not even have any. I mean, we just moved from a small town you know, it's hard to socialize when people already know each other. I'm so glad you came down today. Have a seat, I'll prepare dinner real quick!" 
 

I feel myself getting smaller and smaller at the presence of these two ladies and I just wanted to hurry pull my mom into the kitchen so she could stop  talking to Yoojin. 
 

"Omma!" I tried to stop her. And also because I am feeling super embarrassed. 

Well, that's basically how Yoojin came to have dinner with my family tonight. Myungho was charming her with his sweetness and cuteness and I felt a slight tinge of jealousy. He had totally captured all of her attention during dinner so I just sat there and ate in silence. Is it wrong to be jealous of my own brother? Who is apparently only five years old. 

Forget about Myungho having all her attention during dinner, he basically has all her attention the entire night. I made a mental note that if I were to actually date any girl, I can't bring them home because Myungho would steal all the limelight away from me from my loved one. Stop being such a dazzler, Kim Myungho. Let me just talk to Yoojin for one moment. 
 

Which is why I ended up wanting to walk her back home. The only time I'll get to spend with her is when we're away from Kim Myungho and so I insisted on walking her home despite her protests. 

"Aniya! You're sick! I can't have you walking back and forth when you're sick!" 

I left the house and walked next to her. This is the only time I get to spend with you Yoojin, let me have this moment. Besides, I don't know if I should be happy or not that she's actually worrying about me being sick. Then again, I found out that she likes Howon. 
 

"Your family is pretty fun. And I love your house." Yoojin broke the silence that we had as we walked back. 

"Yours is just as amazing as well." I said with a smile on my face. Yoojin's family have been nothing but accepting and generous, I think it's only fair if mine were the same to her. 

As much as I would like time to stop, we've finally reached Yoojin's front porch and I had to leave. I didn't feel like separating but I had no choice. We're already here. Somehow, I wished Yoojin stayed a little further away so we could spend more time together. She made me promise that I'll text her when I'm back and of course, I'm going to keep my promise. 

I know the one that you like isn't me but I'm not going to give up here Yoojin. I'll stay here, right by your side, always. 

(Chapter 18) 

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The whole grad trip had been amazing. It felt like I've gotten a lot closer to Yoojin this trip and I loved every minute that I spent together with her. Except the part where she went missing for quite some time during the scavenger hunt and I got super anxious as to where she went. She really did scare the hell out of me right there. I mean, she couldn't remember to bring her phone out with her?! 

Also, seeing her being upset that Hyuna has feelings for Howon too made me upset. Hyuna is gorgeous in her own way but Yoojin feels insecure when being compared to Hyuna. It just has to be that both of them like Howon. Howon is one lucky guy. No matter how amazing Hyuna is, Yoojin somehow outshines her. I wouldn't even compare in terms of beauty. To me, Yoojin is the prettiest girl I've ever met. People may disagree or what not, but after getting to know her, I feel that her beauty radiates from within. One really has to get to know her before judging her beauty. 

During the grad trip, I've even found my inspiration for my carnival photo. All that's left is to return back to edit it and be ready for submission. While Yoojin was admiring the beauty of Busan, I was admiring a different kind of beauty. Our moment was perfect when I showed her the candid photo I've taken of her. I wanted her to see how amazingly breathtakingly beautiful she is and yet Yoojin being Yoojin, she managed to spoil that moment by bringing up Krystal Jung. Again. I brushed it off like it wasn't anything because I didn't want her to think that I feel something for Krystal. I really don't. She's just a friend no matter what Yoojin says. 

Other things that I've learnt about Yoojin during this trip is that she wanted to try Velvet Lovers cafe. Her eyes literally lit up at the mention of the special red velvet cake served there and I made a mental note to bring her there someday. I've never been there before too but if I'm able to bring her there, she'll be pleasantly surprised right? Well, it's a plan for now. 

Finally, I did mention that the grad trip was amazing right?. Especially since I'm spending much more time with Yoojin but as we were heading back to Seoul, I could tell that there was something bothering her. She didn't talk to me, nor to the other guys. Could it have been because of Howon? We had a talk at the beach one night and she was telling me about how she wishes to date too and I was helping her sort out her feelings for Howon. The very fact that Howon is her first love… it made me uneasy. I was somehow jealous of him. Don't get me wrong, Howon is a great friend but Yoojin? She means a lot to me. 

Just as I was thinking about the events during the grad trip, my phone buzzed and I checked my messages. Yoojin's mom had invited us over for dinner tonight and everybody was going. Except for Bomi. Speaking of Bomi, she felt very distant from the rest of us during the grad trip and I wondered what happened with her that she's distancing herself from us. Is it… because of Woohyun? 

I don't know about the others but I have a feeling Bomi is into Woohyun. Sometimes I may not say much but I'm observing and I wouldn't say I have the best observing skills but it ain't lacking much either. Woohyun, on the other hand, seems to be a little more attached to Yoojin. I'm guessing there'll be another rival. 

What was even stranger was that Yoojin doesn't seem to be able to get through to Bomi as well. Did something happen between the three of them? 

I looked at the time and my parents aren't back yet so I couldn't just leave Myungho alone at home. Maybe I'll just take him along. 

"Myungho! Want to go some place fun?" I gave my brother a playful smile and he immediately dropped his toys. 

"Yes!" He cheered excitedly and ran to the door to get his shoes and I couldn't help but smile. He's actually a very adorable kid but I just felt the need to be slightly strict with him. The whole world dotes him so much and it's not a good thing to spoil him. 

I was the last one to arrive as the other three were waiting for me. 

"Hey Myung! Ready to go over?" Woohyun asked in his usually cheerful voice when I reached his place. "Oh, who's this?" He peered down to the little boy holding my hands. Woohyun seemed normal to me, but I guess he may be hiding his real feelings. After knowing them for sometime, I realised that Woohyun tends to do that often. Outside, he's a bright and cheery guy but on the inside, he's feeling so much more. 

"I hope you guys don't mind, my brother has to come too. My parents aren't home yet and I can't leave him alone." I told the others, hoping that they'll understand. 

"Sure, of course!" Howon said as he smiled to my little brother and gave him a pat on the head. Myungho isn't new to strangers. He mixes with them just right and that's a good thing because the others can help me to take care of him and Myungho isn't picky about who holds him. 

Sunggyu just smiled at me and waved at Myungho. Maybe because Myungho is still young and I guess Sunggyu is not used to young kids so he seemed a little distant. I messed Myungho's hair up, to which he gave me a pout. 

"Let's go, Myungho." I said to him. 

The walk to Yoojin's house made me realize that Howon is actually very good with kids. He kept talking to Myungho and entertaining him along the way and Myungho actually liked him.

 When we got to Yoojin's house, she became extremely protective over Myungho again and that is bad for the kid. 

Since it's the summer break, it wouldn't be weird for Bomi to be over as her parents would allow her but seeing at now she's not here, something just feels missing. 

"I texted Bomi about tonight but she didn't reply. Looks like she didn't reply on the group chat either. Did she go away for a holiday or something?" Sunggyu suggested and I looked at Yoojin for an answer. 

Yoojin set Myungho down and sighed. Her eyes trailed towards Woohyun and I felt a knot tying up in my stomach. So it means that Woohyun and Yoojin knows something. Bomi's distancing may really be because of Woohyun. Something doesn't add up though. The three of them… could they be estranged in some sort of a… love triangle maybe? 

I shuddered at that thought, even though my instincts tells me that I'm right. 

As per usual, the guys made ourselves comfortable in Yoojin's place. We aren't strangers to this home anymore and not that Yoojin ever minded. I did what I do often at her place, I picked up a book and started to read. The inner nerd inside of me couldn't resist not reading a book when I see one but I was somehow distracted by what's going on outside of the book. 

"Myungho! Look over here, hyung's going to show you something cool!" Howon said and showed my little brother some cool rubber band trick. Myungho was totally captivated by Howon's trick and he even requested for it to be done again. Hey, I could do that too Kim Myungho, how come I don't see you cheering and clapping for your own brother? 
 

Howon smiled and then pulled my brother onto his lap to show him how to do the trick. Myungho seemed really excited and happy about learning a new trick but I'm just happy that he's interacting well with the others. 

As if natural to me, my eyes darted to Yoojin and I found her admiring the way Howon was playing with Myungho. She looked proud of Howon. In fact, more than just proud. The look in her eyes says that she's falling deeper in love with Howon. Instantly, I felt a tinge of jealousy. The way she looks at Howon would probably be the way I want her to look at me too. Hey, she didn't even look at me that way when I'm playing with Myungho. 

Yoojin just sighed naturally at the sight of Howon and Myungho. 

"What's wrong?" Sunggyu asked after hearing it. 

"Eh? N-nothing." Yoojin tried to brush it off and I couldn't help but chuckle as I set my book down. She looks so adorable after being caught. The only thing that comes to my mind of why she sighed was that she's just in awe of Howon. That's all I could think of. 

She caught me staring at her and she shot me a look that probably said "do not talk about it". Well, Yoojin and I have gotten close to a point that we can almost read each other with just a gaze so it isn't surprising how I know what she's thinking. She isn't that hard to read too. 

As much as Yoojin showers Myungho with affection, Myungho adores Yoojin as well and that made me happy. Extremely happy. Because my little brother is getting along with the girl I like and isn't that what everybody would want? Family to get along with their other half? 

However, every time I look at Yoojin now, her gaze is always focused on another guy. Some really great guy that she's been friends with since forever. A guy that really means a lot to her in terms of a friend and a lover. He's a guy that I can never beat no matter what I do. 

This is why I'm not perfect. I've heard from people praising me for my good results and better than average looks, they've always come to the point where they think I'm a perfect human being but I'm really not. As much as there are flaws in others, I have flaws too and one of those is being jealous. I'm jealous that Howon means so much to Yoojin and I could never take that place in her heart. And jealousy isn't something that easy to overcome so right now, I'll just keep those feelings I have for Yoojin inside now. Maybe someday, when I'm brave enough, I'll be able to stand in front of her as a man. Not as a best friend, but a man that she can rely on for the rest of her life. 

(Chapter 22) 

I am so sorry for the long wait my dear readers! I wasn't feeling too well and have been dealing with a lot as of recently and I had no time to write this chapter but it is up now! So here's part 2 of Myungsoo's POV! I wanted to have a longer POV for Myungsoo because now that it's revealed that Yoojin likes Myungoo too, I just wanted to show the process of them getting together! Since we all know Yoojin's side of things, let's see Myungsoo's side! 

Also, a few readers have been asking me about other POVs such as Sunggyu and Howon and I just want to clarify that I don't have plans for other POVs yet. Whether or not I will include them or not, I will have to think about it. As I mentioned before, I wanted this story to be played out as realistic as possible, which is why it was in Yoojin's POV the entire time. Sometimes in life, we don't know what others think and we may never ever know. So I hope that I have your understanding if I don't write those POVs. However, as I said, I will not rule out the possibility so I will think about it and will update you all more about it in the future! Please understand that there are reasons to my decisions. As much as I love and appreciate my readers, I hope that you guys will respect my decision! 

On the less serious side, I hope this chapter was enjoyable to read as it was to write. Leave me a comment on what you think! Thank you for those who suscribed, comment and upvoted! I am deeply humbled and grateful. Till the next time my lovely readers! ~