PART 3

“You used to call me on my cellphone” I sang silently as my black pen danced across the new blank sheet of paper.

On the top corner, I dropped down the date and placed a little heart on it.

“Late at night when you neeeed my love.” I smiled when I wrote down the events that happened earlier in the day. I couldn’t get over what I saw and who I exchanged words with.

“And I know when that hotline bling, that can only mean one –” I yelped when I noticed I scribbled Taeyeon’s name incorrectly. I went through my pencil case for a correction fluid.

“I swear I just bought a new one yesterday. Where are you?” I sighed and stared at the big error on the paper.

“Taehyeon? Seriously Tiffany?” I asked myself in disbelief and used the black pen to just draw a clean across it. I didn’t want to make many mistakes on the book because I’ll have messy black everywhere. That was the reason I dropped by the store to fetch a correction pen but now I can’t seem to find it. It was too mysterious and outrageous so I texted the only person it could possibly be with.

Hey is my correction pen with u

Immediately she replied with a photo showing my green correction pen lying on her table. I ran a hand across my face in exasperation and placed the phone back to its original position without typing back a reply. Jessica really needs to find her own erasers, correction pen, rulers, highlighters, and well basically everything a second year architectural student needs to have.

After I was done with writing my entry for what happened today with Taeyeon, I logged into my Facebook account and did the first thing I always do which is to go onto Taeyeon’s wall.

“Still private?” My lips jutted out in disappointment but I still clicked on her current profile picture to see her face again. The adding button was just right there and the only action I need to take is to move my thumb and click on it but when I glanced at my username, my insides writhe and tangle in embarrassment. I wish I have never agreed to that dare of changing my FB name into FanyyLizard. I never thought of it as a humiliation until tonight.

I will never ever add her with this name. NEVER. I would have to wait for 4 more weeks until I can change it though.

“Damn you stupid friends.” I sat immobile on my chair as I debated whether I should just add her. It seemed pretty legit because we both did have a few words together and I could message her thank you for what she did earlier but my name is a pain in the . What would she think of me? I didn’t want to give her the impression of an immature kid. However if I don’t add her now, she might forget me and this chance will slip away. Who knows when I will see her again? Maybe I won’t ever will.

Then, a message from Taehyung popped up from the upper part of my phone’s screen.

Tiff I did an overall check on our house model and have you practiced your speech yet?

My eyes widened. I totally forgot about the speech. I quickly texted back a reply.

Hmm not yet it totally slipped off my mind thx for reminding me. I’ll go do it now and probably sleep. It’s already l8.

I my computer to load my speech and gave it a swift read.

OK Tiff. Good luck to us tmr and good n9 =)

I sent a sticker and kept my phone away to focus on my speech. I then realized I had another assignment to finish and just covered my misery with a huge sigh. UNI life isn’t what people would wish for.

-

I was right. I was right about thinking that I might not see Taeyeon again. It’s been two weeks since the last time I encountered her. The following days were just me going onto her profile every night to check whether she has switched from private to public. My diary has been blank ever since that night. There’s nothing to write about. Seriously, nothing. Don’t tell me this is how my new crush is going to end.

I exhaled loudly and it totally caught Jessica’s attention.

“Tiff, the teacher’s not even here and you’re already sick with life.”

“I can’t help it. It’s been 2 weeks since the last time I saw her. I mean is this how we will end? It’s not even starting yet and it’s already ending.” I glanced at Jessica who was giving me a questioning face.

“Did you take dramatic pills this morning?” She deadpanned.

“Yes. I took 7 tablets.” I sarcastically retorted and she laughed.

“Chill. I mean I know it’s hard since you guys literally have almost no connection. It’s a terrible choice to catch feelings for her. Talk about love at first sight!” She chuckled and toned down when a few more students entered into the lecture hall.

“Tell me something I don’t know.” I replied and coiled in my own misery. How will I make this work? Taehyung is my only choice but I can’t do too much because he’ll be suspicious. 

“She owns an art’s school.” Jessica said out of the blue and I stared at her.

“I already know that. I told you that.” She glared at me.

“Be quiet. Since you guys have no connections and are now currently strangers.” She did a quote sign with her fingers on the word strangers.

“The chance of you guys meeting again is very low so what you have to do is work for it. Sitting and waiting for s to come to you is definitely not an option right now. Since she’s not interested in you, things will even be harder.”

She paused and raised an eyebrow at me to see if I was following.

“And where should I start?”

“You said it yourself. She owns an arts school.” That was all she could say before the teacher walked in and apologized for her tardiness. My mind reeled at what Jessica said and I knew what she wanted me to do but that was insane. There should be another way. There must be.

“You want me to attend her school?” I whispered at her in a hushed tone.

“You have any other better solutions?” She challenged me and I took a minute to think.

“Not right now.” I defended and she just smiled sweetly.

“And not for the following decades too honey.” She patted my head and I smacked her hand away.

I spent a minute to imagine me attending her school. Should I really go that far? But that was the only way I could see her and if I’m lucky, get to know her. And if I were to run into her at the school, I could just say it’s a wonderful coincidence and that’s only if she recognizes me; which I highly doubt.

“I guess you’re right.” I mumbled unwillingly and Jessica nodded her head.

“Of course I am. Plus, it’s not a bad thing. Aren’t you always interested in art? It’s a great chance to sharpen your skills of being an architect too.” Jessica was right. Her reasoning were legitimate and on fleek.

I nodded but I was nervous mentally. Every nerve of my body was hesitant.

“Can you come with me then? It’s great to have company.”

“I can’t. I’m attending 2 universities don’t you remember?” My shoulder sagged at her response.

“I’m still not so sure…HEY!” I screeched in a low voice as I saw what Jessica had done to my right arm. A T <3 was written horribly on my skin. This girl can’t be serious.

“Jess seriously?” I tried in vain to get the ink off my skin. She was holding back her laugh and I thought about taking my own pen to seek revenge but we were in class so I dropped the idea. I let her slip past my fingers and just return to listening to the lecturer. Then another question popped into my mind.

“Jess, does this mean I have to ask Taehyung for the art’s school whereabouts?”

She simply nodded and I bit my bottom lip. Just this once more.

-

It was lunch break and I was sitting on a bench in the school’s garden surfing through the internet.

Jessica thought it was okay to ask Taehyung but it felt strangely weird to me so I decided to just give it a shot in finding the school on the internet. I typed various things into the search engine relating to ‘Art schools in Seoul.’ But it was impossible to know which one.

I deleted my search and typed a new one.

Kim Taeyeon art school

A few websites came out, none catching my attention.

“Hey! I was searching everywhere for you.” A voice surprised me from the back and I flipped my phone face down on my lap in a flash. It was Taehyung. He was giving me his usual smile, with his hands tucked into his pockets.

“Oh hi Taehyung. You said you were searching for me?”

“Well yeah I was just thinking do you want to go for lunch with me?” This guy surprised me again. He was probably the most straightforward person I’ve ever met and it makes me wonder whether it was the same with his older sister. Does he not realize he’s indirectly asking me out on a date? How can he say that out like it was the most innocent thing in the world? Maybe it was just me thinking too much.

“Uh…” I kept my eyes on his unwavering smile and couldn’t find a reason to say no.

“Yes sure why not?” I guess I might as well just question him about the school’s location.

-

He asked me what I wanted to have and I said anything. And when I witnessed his choice of food, I was pleasantly shocked.

“You have a thing for eels too?” I couldn’t help but throw that question as we stopped in front of a restaurant famous for its eel dishes.

“I’m fine with it. It’s just my sister loves it so she would bring me here all the time. She once said eels are a girl’s obsession or something. So I thought you would like it too?” His uncertain face turned to me waiting for my opinion on his choice of food.

“Your sister’s right.” I replied and my insides sparked. Taeyeon has the same food obsession like me too.

Taehyung flashed me a smile and opened the glass door for me. He made a gesture with his right arm and bowed.

“Ladies first.” He jokingly said and I chuckled lightly before muttering thank you.

We found a place to settle and quickly ordered since our lunch break wasn’t that long. It was strangely tense staying with Taehyung and doing nothing. We didn’t talk or anything. He was staring at his fingers and I was staring at him staring at his fingers. He lifted his head up and I turned away immediately. How am I going to start with the conversation?

“So” We both began at the same time and he let me go first.

“Why did you ask me for lunch all of a sudden?”

“I don’t know too. I just thought we haven’t really hung in a while so yeah.” I made an o shape with my mouth and the corners of my lips went up.

“What did you want to say earlier?” I questioned and he just shrugged.

“I forgot.” He scratched his head and a laugh slipped from his lips. That was all we said before our lunch arrived and we just ate silently. The silence was too torturous for me so I brought the topic I wanted to know about up.

“Taehyung.” I started and swallowed my food before placing my utensils on the plate.

“Hmm?” He looked up with his mouth full.

“I just wanted to take art classes and I remembered about your sister’s school? Does she take in students as old as me?”

“I think she does. The last time I remembered, I witnessed a guy as old as 60 attending her classes. I’m not sure I can find out more about it if you want me to.” He offered and I shook my head.

“It’s alright. Would you mind telling me the name of it? I’ll just go and obtain information personally.”

Taehyung paused for a minute before answering.

“I’m not mistaken, I think it’s Seoul’s academy of fine arts.”

“And is that a T?” He pointed at my forearm and I covered it.

“It’s nothing.” I lied. I hope he doesn’t mistaken it as his name.

-

I drove gradually pass houses and various shops as I squinted to see the street number. I scanned the map on my phone’s screen and realized I was on the correct street. All I have to do is head straight and the school will just be further up, on the right side of the street.

“There you are!” I halted to a stop in front of a medium-sized building and read the words that were plastered on the building.

“Taehyung’s right.”

 I found a decent place to park my car and got off. My hands were sweating and I swallowed my anxiety.

“It’s not too late to turn back now Tiffany.” I turned my head to my car and back to the building. I was standing in one place in front of the place, not making up my mind of going in or what.

“Just know if you step foot into the building, there’s no turning back.” I chewed on the inside of my mouth and paddled to the entrance.

As soon as I went in, cold air made contact with my face and the strong musky smell of paint hit my nostrils. My eyes glazed the white walls and the various paintings hooked up on the walls. I searched for someone that could assist me and just on cue, a woman came up with kind eyes.

“How may I help you?” Her voice was mellow and a little high pitched, although in a nice tone, unlike Jessica’s. She wore a white and black suit and I noticed the name tag on her chest.

“Um…I want to register for art courses please.” I could barely say that out.

“Oh. Well please follow me to the office.” She started walking and I hesitantly followed her. She turned the corner and stopped on the very first room before knocking and going in. She opened the door for me and flashed me a smile. I thanked her and proceeded to go in where two ladies sat behind a big desk.

“Hello miss.” One of them greeted. “Please take a seat.”

I did as I was told and couldn’t take my eyes away from the big painting hanging behind them. I couldn’t tell what it was a drawing of, just splashes of colors here and there.

“Hello. I just wanted to ask a few questions about the school?” I returned my eyes to the lady in front of me and she happily explained. Forms and catalogs were taken out and explained thoroughly, going through the activities and the price, which was very reasonable.

A good 10 minutes went by and she was done.

“So you mean there’s also a class for people aged 18 and up?” I questioned and she said yes with a warm smile. I contemplated about the whole situation and thought maybe I should inform my mom first.

“I understand. I will think about it and tell you about my decision as soon as possible. Thank you very much for your help.” I bowed and the receptionist bowed as well.

“It’s my pleasure. Here are the catalogs and our business card. I sincerely wish you can join us.” She pushed a few sheets of paper to me and I neatly placed them into my purse. I said good bye and as I stand up, I couldn’t help but ask one more question.

“I’m sorry but is Kim Taeyeon the owner of this school?”

The receptionist seemed taken aback at my question.

“Yes. Yes she is.” She gave me a smile and wished me a good day. Kim Taeyeon sure really is good at selecting her staffs. They’re so friendly and extremely helpful.

-

“Mom I was thinking of enrolling in this…arts school. What do you think?” I brought it up while I was downstairs watching my favorite show.

“Art?” She repeated all the way from the dinner table.

“Yes.” I lowered the volume of the TV so I can hear her better.

“That’s great! I’ve always also been interested in taking art courses. When will you be studying? Do they take in people my age too?” My mom got up from where she was and plopped on the couch next to me. A grin was plastered on her face and I laughed.

“Yes mom. But are you sure you want to come along too?”

“Why not?” She raised an eyebrow and I shrugged. I hopped of the couch and clapped both my hands together.

“It’s settled then. I’ll inform them right now.” I brought out their business card and dialed the first number out of the three that was listed.

It beeped 3 times and they finally picked up.

“Hello? This is Seoul’s academy of fine arts.” My eyebrows knitted at the voice. Maybe this is another staff talking. Oh well.

“Yes hi I’m calling to inform that I’ve decided to enroll in your school. I went there earlier today and wasn’t sure but now I’m sure. I just wanted to know when I can start.”

“Oh yes well I believe you’re already aware of the price and levels and about your question, I believe it’s a coincidence that the new term just started two days ago so you can just come tomorrow. That will be just fine.”

“Ah I see well I guess I’m quite lucky then.” I laughed and the receptionist laughed too. I bid her farewell.

“Yes have a good night miss.” I said the same thing and ended the call.

“Mom we’re starting tomorrow is that ok?”

“I’m excited!” My mom squealed and I gave her a kiss on the cheek.

-

I entered the office at around 4 in the afternoon and saw the same lady. She recognized me too since she stood up with a cheerful face.

“I’m more than happy to see you join our family.” She said and I nodded, noticing how she said ‘family’. I introduced her to my mom and told her she’ll be attending too.

“I gave you a call yesterday.” I said as I sat in one of the chairs to pay everything with the money my mom gave me.

“Oh really? Which number did you dial? I forgot to tell you the last number is the one for us.” She explained.

“I dialed the first one.”

“Oh that’s our CEO.” My stomach tightened as curiosity prompted me to ask just another question.

“The CEO?” I held my breath in anticipation of her reply. I mean for some school, the owner and the CEO is different. But there are some who are the same. I don’t know which one I want it to be.

“The owner, Ms. Kim Taeyeon.” She answered nonchalantly and my mind did a flashback to the call last night and I had a mini heart attack. I was talking to her on the phone last night and I didn’t even know! No wonder why there was something weird with the voice. I should’ve know.

“Oh my god.” I mumbled and felt like smacking my face in front of everyone. I can’t believe this. I was on call with her and I was so calm. Thinking about it, she even wished me good night yesterday.

“Is something wrong?” She asked and handed me the change and a receipt. I shook my head and she told me the class me and my mom should be in.

“So allow me to confirm a few things before you leave to class. You’ve chosen the M/W/F of the painting course and the time will be from 6-8 PM.” I nodded in agreement to what she said and walked with my mom to class. Along the way, I peeked in to the ongoing classes, stupidly hoping to see Taeyeon.

We found the room and introduced ourselves to see mostly people at my mom’s age. I sat next to my mom and she was already making friends with another lady.

The class started and it was alright. My mom was having fun and I was happy seeing that but I was starting to think if this was the right choice.

I came here twice but never caught a glimpse of Taeyeon. Does she come here often? What if I never run into her?

The young teacher, which was probably a few years older than me started by doing an introduction about colors, and the various types of different brushes. He then talked very briefly about the history of art and famous painters. It was halfway that he wanted us to try our first freestyle painting to just test our potential.

In a blink of an eye, time was up and people started packing.

“People who are done can go home and for those who aren’t done are free to stay and continue.” He smiled and hugged everyone who left the door. I looked over to my mom and a few others that stayed behind to finish their piece.

I stared at my canvas in front of me and heard the door slide open to see Taeyeon standing at the door frame with a soft smile. My heart jumped to my throat as fast as lightning as I hid behind my canvas.

“Tiffany what the ! Isn’t this what you came for? Why are you hiding?” I scowled myself quietly but peeked a little to see she has walked into the front of the class.

“Hello how’s it going?” I heard her ask our teacher and he said something then they both laughed. How come nobody was noticing her presence? Is it normal for her to come in like this? My heart pounded as I witnessed her walking around the room checking the few people that was still here. Everything about her was just as I remembered. She came nearer and I pulled my eyes to focus on my work.

“That’s a wonderful masterpiece ma’am” I heard she complimented my mom and she placed a hand on my mom’s shoulder. I eyes widened when I saw her leaned in and pointed at a place in the canvas. Mom I’m jealous of you.

“It’ll be excellent to had another shade of blue here don’t you think ma’am?” She suggested and my mom laughed before agreeing. My heart died and revived to only die again when she made way to me. She stopped behind me and coldness seeped through my backbone. I could smell her nice vanilla scent again. I held my breath waiting for her to say something.

“Nice job.” She said and I lifted my head to connect eyes with her. Something flickered inside her eyes and I wait for her to recognize me but she only smiled and I just gave her a tight lip smile before she moved onto another student.

I guess she didn’t remember me.

-

I didn’t know what I should do. Should I be happy or should I be sad? Can she seriously not remember me?  I buried my face with my pillow and stared at my computer screen. I was on her wall again. I stared at the add button and threw everything out the window.

“ this.” I clicked the add button and waited. my name I don’t care. I just can’t wait any longer. It’s too long for me. My eyes widened and felt 3 tons lifted off my chest when she accepted right away.

I typed hi to her and she replied with a hi?

I’m Taehyung’s friend. Remember?

I sent that and waited for her to reply. I don’t know where I got the courage to do this but my hands were clawing on my bedsheets.

After a long time, she replied.

Yes! I do remember now. If I’m not mistaken, I think you attend my school?

 “Oh my gosh, she remembers!” I squealed.

Yes I do. I thought you didn’t recognize me.

I typed back and I wonder why it took her so long to reply.

I was debating because I wasn’t sure. It really was you. I’m so sorry for not recognizing you.

I read what she typed and wonder does she always write so formally? I thought of what to say and wrote something to only delete it and write again.

It’s ok ^^

After like 10 minutes she finally typed something back. And my ears caught fire reading it.

I like your Facebook name.

I don’t know whether she was making fun of me or being genuine but I just went on explaining that it was only a dare and from then on, she read and never replied.

“Gosh…Tiffany, do you even have any hope left?” I ran a hand through my hair and fell asleep.

-

Thank you for reading x