Irene hears the doorbell and she has a string of scolding at her tongue for her younger sister, since it is night and she’s returning so very late now from tutoring. Irene opens the door and she opens like a fish and closes it. She doesn't speak a word, or even squeak when she finds someone else beside Yeri.

“Hi.” Irene blinks.

“Hi.” Seulgi waves.

“She walked me home.” Yeri chirps before striding into the house, pushing past Irene.

Irene blinks and Seulgi looks elsewhere— desperately trying to not make eye contact she won’t be able to hold. 

“Thank you - for walking my sister home.” Irene speaks after a while. “I hope it wasn’t too much of a hassle? It's quite late.”

“No hassle at all.” Seulgi beams. “I wouldn’t rest knowing that a kid is walking home this late.”

Irene extends a hand suddenly.

“I’m Irene.” She says.

“I know.” Seulgi smiles— still taking Irene’s hand firmly. “I’m Seulgi.” 

Irene blinks.

“Right. We go to school together.” She shakes her head slightly.

“We do.” Seulgi nods and Irene finds herself staring at Seulgi— their hands still joined. There is something alluring about Seulgi and Irene wants to know more, she finds herself leaning in— unravelling some part of her.

“Do you want to come inside?” Irene asks boldly.

Seulgi’s brows raise and she blinks.