Today, I woke up earlier than usual, due to the fact that I was going out with Sandeul. We were heading to the medical school for me to turn in an application. I was finishing getting ready when Sandeul called, he was waiting for me downstairs. I quickly grabbed my purse and headed out the door.

 

  As soon as the the elevator door opened, I walked towards the convenience store where we had decided to meet. There, I quickly spotted Sandeul by the candy section. Any regular person may have not noticed him in his blue jeans, black v-neck shirt, hat, and sunglasses. I could definitely tell it was him by now.

 

"Sandeul." I quietly called, once I stood next to him.

 

He looked startled, probably thought I was a fan that had recognized him. "Jessy." He took a deep breath. "You scared me."

 

"I figured." I laughed. "How are you?" I slightly bowed.

 

"Worried and you?" He replied with a bow.

 

"Why?" I questioned as we began heading towards the metro.

 

"I don't want to be recognized." His hands reached up to his head as he tried to hide the most he could of his orangy hair.

 

"Sandeul, if you're worry about that you shouldn't have come." I was a bit annoyed from his whining.

 

"No." He shook his head. "I wanted to come. I didn't mean to make it sound that way."

 

"Well, I'm glad you came." I offered a smile. "I would had been completely lost without you."

 

He smiled back. He has such a nice smile. We kept talking all the way to the metro. Most people were at work so things were pretty empty. Luckily, we spotted two empty seats as soon as we entered the train. Sandeul walked in front of me, leading me through the aisle. Once we arrived at the empty sits he moved aside for me to sit first. I gave him a questioning look.

 

"I want you to take the window seat." He said motioning for me to sit. Once I sat he spoke again. "I live in Seoul, I've seen most of it already but, you haven't."

 

I understand now. I looked out the window, which for now was cover by the underground station's wall.

 

"Thank you." I said happily.

 

Things were quiet before the train left the station. However, a few minutes after we departed Sandeul turned towards me.

 

"So, how does it feel to go to college?" He questioned, his mouth hanging a bit open after the question.

 

I thought about it. "It's stressful but, I'm sure you know all about stress. My school has many students, sometimes it's overwhelming."

 

I paused but, he waited for me to continue so, I did.

 

"I don't know." I chuckled. "I like going to school but, sometimes it feels like an endless cycle. Sometimes, I think of my life and see no excitement. I  guess that's one of the reasons I took this trip. I need an adventure."

 

Sandeul observed me as he processed all I have said then replied. "I understand what you mean. Before debuting, I thought reaching my goal was an endless journey, finding a company that would give me a chance."

 

I looked out the window, contemplating. 

 

"I guess, I'm having an adventure in this trip." I thought about how we met the guys and about my incident with Jinyoung.

 

Suddenly, I felt a hand on my shoulder. 

 

"I know." I heard Sandeul laughing. "Remember when we got lost."

 

Oh yeah, that too. I laughed. "That sure was an adventure."

 

We both stopped laughing and stayed quiet for a second. Sandeul broke the silence.

 

"You know what I would had liked to experienced?" I turn to give him my attention. He was starring ahead. 

 

"What?" I asked, wanting for him to continue.

 

He turned to look at me.

 

"A college romance." I just stayed quiet, listening to him. "That's something I'm going to miss out on. Doing all the couple things and having the butterflies in your stomach when you see her at school."

 

He sighed, looking forward again. I couldn't help but to feel bad. The atmosphere felt heavy for that brief moment.

 

"But, it's worth it. I'm living my dream and having great experiences." He said with a smile, once again turning towards me.

 

I returned the smile.

 

"Anyways, having a college romance is not so great." I said with a shrug. "Sometimes both your classes are far away, or your free times are different. Well, that's how it was for me."

 

"Oh." Sandeul's eyes widened momentarily. "You have a college romance?"

 

"Had." I corrected. "Believe me, it looks better in the movies. Now, I don't even care if the guy is in my school, or even in college as long as he's a good guy and hard-working, that's all I need."

 

Sandeul nodded. "I agree. I also want a hard-working girl, I don't care if she's not an idol, as long as she loves me and I love her back."

 

"Yup." I nodded, once again looking out the window and for some reason, I smiled to myself.

 

We arrived at the medical school. Most students were on vacation so, it was pretty empty. Luckily, thanks to Sandeul I was able turn in my application directly to the dean of admissions. It only cost Sandeul two autographs and a lie. He told the secretary and the dean that I was his English tutor and he was making me a favor by bringing me.

 

"She's so young." The secretary commented in English.

 

"Well, she's very smart." Sandeul replied with a small smile and glanced at me.

 

The older lady smiled and went to get the dean.

 

"Happy, teacher?" Sandeul asked with a smirk when we were alone.

 

"Yes, student." I replied, jokingly rolling my eyes.

 

After speaking with the dean I was very happy. I even felt more energize and slightly hyper. 

 

"That went very well." Sandeul said satisfied as soon as we stepped outside the school.

 

"I know. Thank you so much, Sandeul." I said jumping happily. I was so excited. I couldn't help it, I hugged Sandeul and kept jumping. 

 

When I noticed what I had done, I immediately stopped jumping. I looked up at Sandeul who due to my shortness and my arms around his neck was leaning a bit down, his face close to my face. I blushed as if it was illegal and quickly left go. Sandeul was also blushing.

 

My jaw hung slightly open, as I didn't know what to say. 

 

"I-I'm sorry." I stuttered, finally being able to talk. "I'm not trying to be rude, I know things here are different. I'm not trying to disrespect. I didn't-"

 

"It's okay." Sandeul said, cutting me off. Then, laughed as he said "You're not disrespecting me." 

 

"Thank God." I took a deep breath.

 

"I like your excitement." He smiled. "I'm just not used to it, that's why I'm shocked. I know things in the U.S. are different, I'm not closed minded."

 

I looked down at my wedges, embarrassed. Then, out of nowhere, I felt Sandeul hugging me as he jumped up and down. I was startled, this completely took me by surprise. I just bursted out laughing. When he stopped, we were both out of breath.

 

"Let's get going." I was finally able to say.

 

On our way back Sandeul and I listened to music on his phone, we both shared his headphones. At times he would get carried away and begin singing, I had to remind him that we were in a public place.

 

"I'm hungry." Sandeul announced as the metro came to a complete stop. "Let's go eat ramen, I'll treat you."

 

"You don't have to do that." I said shaking my head. "I should be treating you, you were so helpful today."

 

"No way." Sandeul narrowed his eyes. "I had a good time today, it was no problem at all. Please, let me buy you some ramen." As he said this last part he did some aegyo , which I'm not used to but couldn't help to think it was cute.

 

"Alright." I said, giving up on my argument.

 

We walked to a nearby ramen shop. The walked was pretty quiet. I glanced over at Sandeul, he was looking down as he walked. Maybe he is avoiding being recognized. I couldn't help having this weird feeling inside of me. I was confused about it... 

 

 It didn't take long to arrive at the ramen shop. Sandeul took the liberty of ordering for me, he never looked at the waitress. I guess he was once again avoiding being recognized,

 

"So, you and Jinyoung hyung have become close." Sandeul commented as soon as the waitress left.

 

I was surprised by the statement. "I guess. What makes you think that?"

 

"That night we went to the movies Jinyoung hyung was not home when we arrived at the apartment and no one knows what time he really got back. He just texted us that he was going to be out late. I assumed he was with you. Wasn't he?" Sandeul took a sip of his drink, he's eyes still glued to me.

 

I paralyzed. I couldn't breath. What am I going to say?

 

   I also took a sip of my drink, trying to buy myself more time to reply. "Yeah, he was with me. Jinyoung came over to help me with the medical school application, most of it was in Korean."

 

"Don't they have an English version?" Sandeul questioned.

 

"Do they?" I laughed nervously. "That could had saved me a lot of time."

 

Sandeul stayed quiet, starring at me. He took another sip of his drink. I was dying on the inside.

 

"Next time if you need help with Korean I can help you." Sandeul finally spoke. I was grateful he was offering his help. 

 

I looked down at my drink, swirling the straw. "Thank you."

 

"No problem." He said and my eyes flicked up, meeting his. I quickly looked away.

 

Suddenly, the waitress appeared with our ramen and Sandeul said something quick to her in Korean, she replied with a bow and left.

 

"I hope you like it." Sandeul smiled as he took noodles in his chopsticks. "Eat well."

 

"Thank you, I will." I took noodles with my chopstick and blew on them. I took a big bite. I noticed Sandeul starring at me, I became self-conscious. "I'm sorry." I mumbled after swallowing.

 

Sandeul chuckled. "Don't be sorry. I like it, you have a good appetite. I do too."

 

He then took a bite of his noodles. I couldn't help but to chuckle, he looked cute.

 

After eating lunch, Sandeul paid and we left. 

 

"I'll walk you to the hotel room." Sandeul stated when we walked out the door.

 

"Okay." I shrugged.

 

We both walked side by side quietly. I suddenly felt my phone vibrating, I took it out my back pocket, it was Kimmy.

 

"Hello." I answered.

 

"Jessy?"

 

"Hey Kimmy. Dang, we haven't talked in forever. How's the apartment?" I said cheerfully.

 

"Occupy." She laughed. "I'm going to deposit what was made last week to your account."

 

"Thank you, you're the best." I looked over at Sandeul, who was looking at me. "We need to talk but, I'm kind of busy now. Call me tonight."

 

"Okay, I will." She chirped.

 

"Bye." I sang.

 

"Bye." 

 

We both hung up.

 

I turned my attention to Sandeul. "Sorry, about that. It was my friend, she's just checking up on me."

 

Sandeul grabbed my shoulders, pushing me in front of him as we walked.

 

"Just, stop being sorry, please." He said as he walked behind me, his hands on my shoulders. "I know you're not this stiff, just relax a little."

 

I thought about it and he was right. I haven't been myself today. I'm usually not this quiet and reserved.

 

"You're right." I turned around to face him, his hands still on my shoulder. "Do you want to get something sweet, maybe some ice cream. I'll treat you this time."

 

"Sounds like a plan." Sandeul winked, letting go of my shoulders. "There's an ice cream shop near by."

 

I followed him as he let us to the ice cream shop. We got the ice cream to go as we still walked to the hotel. Once at the hotel, Sandeul walked me all the way to the room door.

 

"Do you want to come in or something." I offered, being polite.

 

"I would but, I have to head back. The hyungs are probably waiting for me." Sandeul said, shoving both hands in his pockets.

 

"I see how it is." I said jokingly.

 

"Don't make me feel bad." Sandeul pouted.

 

"Don't be a baby." I laughed. "See you later then."

 

"I guess I will." Sandeul replied with a wide grin. "Bye."

 

"Bye." I called as I slid through the door.

 

I laid my back against the door as soon as I closed it. I sighed deeply. What's happening to me? I pushed myself from the door and walked towards the couch.

 

"Cathy!" I shouted but, no response. "Cathy?"

 

I looked around and she wasn't in the room. Before I could call her phone, I heard the room door open. 

 

"Ca?" I asked as I stood up from the couch.

 

"Yeah?" She walked through the door, carrying a few bags in her hands.

 

"Hey." I followed her towards the kitchen.

 

"Hey, how was your day?" She asked, placing the bags on the counter.

 

"It was really good." I smiled, laying against the counter. "How about yours? Where were you?"

 

"I was at the dorm." She replied, turning around to look at me. 

 

"The guys dorm? And with who?" I crossed my arms.

 

"Yes." She replied cautiously. "And I hung out with Gongchan."

 

"Alone?" I narrowed my eyes at her.

 

"Yes." She once again replied cautiously. 

 

 I know she was worried I was going to come down on her about it. At this point I didn't care, my sister side came afloat. 

 

I smiled. "What did you guys do?" I asked excitedly.

 

"Well, he made us breakfast."  She smile widely.

 

"Oh my gosh, was it good?"

 

"It was." She squeaked. "Then, we watched a movie and he... he grabbed my hand."

 

I squealed. "Oh my God, how cute. What does this mean?"

 

"I don't know." Cathy shrugged.

 

"What exactly happened?" I asked curiously.

 

My sister sighed, crossed her arms and began speaking.

 

Flashback

***********************

 

Gongchan's hand was on mines and my heart was beating a million times per hour. I glanced at our hands and then at Gongchan, his gaze was fixed on the TV. I quickly stoled a glance at his lips and my mind wondered. 

 

Before I could die of a heart attack, Gongchan left go of my hand. I unconsciously looked at him. I watched him as he stood up and turned the light on. 

 

"That was scary, huh?" He asked with a smile.

 

I looked at the TV, the movie was over. I missed the whole ending. Oh well.

 

"It was." I replied with a small grin.

 

I waited to see if he said anything about the kiss in the cheek or grabbing my hand. I was so confused.

 

"What do you want to do?" Gongchan approached me, extending his hand at me.

 

I grabbed it and pulled myself up. He jerked me a bit too hard and I stumbled unto him. I blushed.

 

"How about guitar hero?" I offered.

 

"You play that?" Gongchan looked surprised.

 

"Of course." I said with a small snort. "And I'll beat you at it."

 

"You're on." He replied with a smirk.

 

****************

 

"Oh wow." I gapped. "I don't know what to say." The whole situating was shocking and confusing.

 

Cathy crossed her arms and sighed. "Tell me about it."

 

"So are the guys busy tomorrow?" I asked as I walked towards the fridge for a bottle of water.

 

"Yes, they have a performance." My sister replied, extending her hand for the water on my hands

 

"I'm guessing we won't see them in a few days." I shrugged, my mind drifting.

 

"Actually, we'll see them later today?" Cathy bit her bottom lip, then took a sip of water.

 

"Why?" I furrowed my eyebrows.

 

"I kind of told Gongchan that I'll cook Puerto Rican food for him."  She answered skeptically.

 

I crossed my arms. "There's two problem with that statement. First how are you going find the ingredients here in Korea."

 

"I found the basic ingredients for rice, beans, and steak with onions." Cathy pointed out.

 

"I'm guessing that's what the bags are for." I said, looking over at the bags. "Secondly, you don't know how to cook."

 

"Well..." She pouted. 

 

"You want me to do it, huh?" 

 

"Please." She pleaded.

 

"Okay, I will." I gave into her pleading. "If it's to impress Gongchan then, I'll help."

 

"When will they be here?" I questioned as I took the things out of the bags.

 

"At six." She replied, biting her bottom lip.

 

I looked at my phone. "Well, help me cook. We only have two hours and a half."

 

 The things I get myself into...