The Unexpected Becomes the Expected

Story by LeeHwaYoung

"Can I thank you?" Hyuk Jae asked calmly. The request took me by surprise. I never expected anything from him, however I couldn't deny him now. I gave him a slow nod, watching him as he moved closer. I wasn't anything less than shocked when he wrapped me in for a hug. His strawberry scent enticed me, holding me entirely in his trust. For a moment, I thought of pulling him even closer to me, to fully let myself go in his presence and to never let him go. Reality hit. I knew it wasn't possible to keep him forever when he was still Young Yi's captive and I would have to leave him to go live under the captivity of my parents. It would be too selfish. I gently grasped his upper arms - the thought still occuring to me that I could still be selfish - but I pulled him away.

"Don't be worried," I blurted out. It was more for my sake than his. I was already beginning to worry about him and the hurt look on his face was even more concerning. I thanked him and excused myself from his alluring presence. I hid behind the room divider, taking a seat on the bed while putting my head in my palms. This was not going to be easy, leting him go, forgetting about him... I decided to distracted myself and began packing a few clothes that I'd need. Still my mind wondered to Hyuk Jae who still hadn't emerged from the kitchen. He's probably scarfing down the strawberries. My mind joked and a small smile lifted to my face.

I heard a commotion from the kitchen then heard, rather than saw, Hyuk Jae return to his side of the room. Returning to Young Yi. My thoughts darkened, my smile erasing. The thought upset me and I began throwing my clothes into a bag rapidly.

I packed as much as I could into a few small bags in the time I had. I needed to leave. The time was moving by slowly and quickly simultaneously. When four o'clock hit I decided it was the best time to leave. I heaved my bags over my shoulder, stood, and folded the room divider. Hyuk Jae would have no need for it any longer. After removing the divider I looked towards Hyuk Jae who was staring at one of the letters intensly. I approached him slowly until I reached his bed post.

Noticing my appearance, he slowly laid down the note but didn't look at me. "Do you have to go?" His voice was cold and hard. I looked down at my clasped hands. "You said you'd help me till the end... you promised," he chastised me, his voice wavering into a squeak. I clenched my jaw.

"I know and I meant my promise at that time... but now, things have changed. You must do this on your own, and I... I'll just be in the way when you find Young Yi's brother," I stated the facts. Hyuk Jae finally looked my way, tears and understanding nearly glistening in his eyes.

"Sorry. It was selfish of me