Seulgi didn't notice it at first. The quiet hum of an orchestra playing excitedly at the back of the bear-like girl's mind along with the steady thumps of her beating heart. She was all too busy with eyeing a particular short woman whose outgoing charm and wide smiles radiated like sunshine and cherry blossoms.

Wait, sunshine and cherry blossoms? Where did that come from?

Seulgi dismissed it as the peeking sun that was showering the class with radiant rays that made her stumble across such absurd thoughts. But then again, it was doing a phenomenal job at creating such a stunning illusion that Seulgi couldn't stop herself from dazing off at the sight of the beauty once again.

Curious murmurs and hums can be heard from the hushed classroom as students hastily whisper among themselves. The young girl who was receiving the intrigued gaze from the side of the classroom stands bashfully by the teacher's side. With a wave from the teacher, the class went silent as if a blanket fell upon the awaiting students that muffled any noise.

Seulgi would be lying if she thought that the stranger's ravishing yet shy smile didn't make her chest experience quick palpitations. She also wouldn't admit the minor flips and tumbles her stomach had and it tickled just the slightest. Aish, maybe I didn't eat enough for breakfast... Seulgi thought, but maybe the leftover kimbap of last night's supper wasn't the cause of the blissful experience.

Her seemingly delicate hands were clasped gently in front of her slender waist, her ink-black locks that cascaded her small shoulders, and her gorgeous wide eyes and chubby cheeks that enchanted Seulgi. She didn't even bother excusing her thought that she was undeniably cute. Like a chipmunk. Small, cute, perky, and definitely squishy. The woman bent over as she bowed politely to the students, as she loudly spurred with a nervous smile, "Hello, I am the new student, Son Seungwan. Nice to meet you all and please take care of me!"

Son.. Seungwan. Son Seungwan. Seulgi repeated quietly, rolling the name off her tongue like a tasteful candy. It was such a sweet and delightful name. She was relieved that she finally had a name to match such an enchanting face. Not like she already made short nicknames for the hamster-like woman whose fluffy cheeks she adored. Definitely not.

The class erupted in rhythmic claps, sparing small grins at Seungwan who returns it wholeheartedly. "Welcome Son Seungwan. Please take care of her and be nice! Now please take a seat over there, next to Jung Sangchul." The teacher announced, appointing Seungwan to the empty seat beside the pleased boy who awkwardly sat rigid with a toothy grin. Seungwan joyfully approached the empty desk with a cheerful skip that struck Seulgi with a sudden gloom when she realized the appointed seat was on the opposite half of the room. Talk about luck, huh.

"Now class, let's begin our lesson for the morning. Open up your books to chapter four please." Seulgi flipped her textbook open with a heavy hand and a sigh. Dissapointment sat burdensome on Seulgi's shoulders, difficult to roll off with practiced ease that was expected from the charming girl.

That meant that there were four coloumns of students that formed a bothersome barrier between every seeking glance Seulgi spares to hopefully catch a glimpse. Odds of being caught must've multiplied when students began to raise their eyebrows left and right at her excessive sighs. Either way, Seulgi sweeps her gaze to rest on Seungwan, the tiny woman across the room, only to find the said woman to be in a rather pleasing conversation with Jung Sangchul.

It also meant witnessing Seungwan stifle laughters with tight smiles and innocent pats on Sangchul's shoulder with slim fingers that the bear wanted to caress so badly. An irritating gnawing can be felt and Seulgi tore her gaze away. It sent an unpleasant fist to bury itself into her stomach, and some part of her teenager mind didn't want to know why. Maybe she already knew but couldn't bring herself to admit.

Tearing away, Seulgi hastily tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ears as she clicked her tongue in irritation before sighing once more. Little did she know that her gaze may have been reciprocated by a pair of warm chocolate orbs.

-----

"May I sit here?" A reluctant yet familiar voice doesn't fall on deaf ears as Seulgi buries her head further down her crossed arms. Great, now I'm hearing her voice too? Seulgi releases a muffled sigh. Few minutes into lunch, the hamster girl didn't dare leave Seulgi's mind. In fact, she decided to prance around with Seulgi's thoughts, her features dancing across her mind tauntingly like a screen on replay. Difference is, she couldn't turn it off. 

A poke to her shoulder. Now what? Am I hearing and feeling things now? Seriously, what is wrong with me... 

"Hello....?" A voice said, sounding too real for Seulgi, which effectively snapped her out of her train of thoughts. Don't tell me....

The awkward girl cautiously peeked through the safe confines of her enclosed arms, her eyes barely hiding under her disheveled tresses. Seungwan offers a friendly grin and wide, adorable eyes that caused Seulgi's throat to hitch, sounding much like a throaty gasp.

"Are you okay?" Seungwan inquires. Her voice velvety and smooth, Seulgi notes. With a haste swallow of her dry throat, Seulgi manages a shaky "yes".

Another smile, gosh why is it so stunning... "Well, hello! I am Son Seungwan, I am new here. I believe you were in my morning class with Mr. Park, yes?"

"You noticed me?" Seulgi's tongue slips, only to bite her lip to restrain any more inquiries. Seungwan didn't seem to mind though, as she slightly puffs her cheeks out, jutting her bottom lip out.

"Of course, you are my classmate." A pause wedged in between her words as Seungwan ponders before speaking again. "I would also notice if someone was staring at me so intensely." She finishes with a quirk to her lips, smirking teasingly as her eyes twinkled with amusement. Seulgi questions if she's hallucinating, or she still hasn't taken a proper breath of air ever since this god-sent being came her way.

Seulgi stumbles with her words as she mutters a quick apology, her cheeks already set ablaze in embarassment. She didn't know if it was due to the captivating smile and adorable features Seulgi had noticed, or if it was Seungwan's words that made her cheeks warm. Seungwan giggles lightly sounding very much like music to Seulgi, clearly amused about the reaction she received.

A brief silence forms between the two seated girls as Seungwan proceeded to plop onto her bottom, the whiff of almond catches the bear's attention. Seulgi stays rigid and didn't dare to let run loose as bunches of thought scramble in her mind like string tangled. Her brain felt fried, static pulsing through her veins as the nearby rustling of foliage were replaced by the thrumming of her heart. It felt odd. But Seulgi didn't hate it.

"Seulgi, have you eaten lunch?" Seungwan asks, effectively pulling Seulgi's tangled mind to attention.

"Not really.." Seulgi mumbled, watching curiously as Seungwan's eyes squint slightly in a frown. The bear was aware of the absence of her lunch sack that should be placed beside her books. With the haste of the morning, the girl had stomped out the door as the time drills into her sleep-fuddled mind, making her realize how late she was. Unfortunately, while she hastily sped through the streets, her stylish yet used bear lunchbox sat alone on the counter of the kitchen, forgotten. Seulgi's stomach craved for a meal, maybe from the cafeteria. However her wallet is tucked into her sock drawer, also forgotten. Without her lunch bag, she looked studious with her books stacked by her lap. Perhaps that made her seem intelligent, Seulgi pondered. Do I look smart? Maybe she likes smart people? 

With that passing thought, Seulgi smugly heaves her chest out, quirking the corner of her lip. That only drew a confused expression from Seungwan.

"What are you looking so smug about?" Seungwan muttered. Seungwan's fingers danced as she untied the strings of her bag. A boxed lunch was then presented to Seulgi, accompanied by a radiant smile. Rows of perfectly cut rolls of sushi were delightfully placed, with wasabi a tub of soy sauce on the side. Even her food is cute.

"Let's share, Seulgi!"

Seulgi bites her lips as she ponders on the offer. She missed the way how Seungwan's eyes faltered when it landed on her tucked lips because she was all too busy observing the girl before her. With a quirk of the eyebrows from Seungwan, Seulgi accepts. "Sure, Seungwan."

The tune of the bell broke their easygoing conversation. Pulling their laughters to a halt as they falter with keeping a straight expression in order to hide their dissapointment. Seungwan was the first to recover, dusting off her checkered skirt as she stands.

"That was a delightful lunch, Seulgi!" Seungwan grins. Craning her head to gaze at the taller girl and continues to adjust her top, getting rid of creases with her free hand that wasn't grasping onto her books. Seulgi reciprocates her cheerful gaze as she quietly smiles. "Yes, it was."

A pause forms though they didn't notice. Their eyes locked with each other, neither wanted to leave. It was broken once Seungwan looks down, bashfully hiding her flushed cheeks against her ink black locks. Though Seulgi doesn't notice once again, she was too busy with her own blush.

"Anyway, I'll meet you in class. Goodbye, Seulgi." Seungwan bids, turning away. Seulgi's heart panics in frantic thuds.

Before she knew it...

"W-wait!"

A whip of her head followed by a flowing curtain of hair and questioning eyes with a hint of hope. Seulgi hastily swallows.

"C-can we eat together again?" Seulgi asks, immediately flinching at her inevitable stutter as she fidgets under Seungwan's softening gaze. All the more adding onto her blazing blush that painted her cheeks red, much like a blooming rose. She tucks her lip between her teeth once more when a pause wedges in between.

"You know," Seulgi tilts her head at the smaller woman, "You are very cute, Seulgi." Can I become even more red?

Seungwan laughs. Once again, Seulgi was entranced. Her giggles came off more like twinkling bells, cute, as she heaves in short breathes in between. Her eyes squinting in mirth, her right eye closing ever so slightly. Very cute indeed.

A flutter. Like small wings tickled Seulgi's belly. How it was delightful and gentle enough that it only grazed slightly, accompanied with the small leaps her heart made. A growing sensation that wedged comfortably and warm in her stomach. It was strange.

The mirthful laughter halts with a wide smile. "Of course! We are friends now." Friends? That.. That sound nice.

Seulgi couldn't stifle the cracking toothy smile that splits across her smile, as her eyes hide behind crescents. She didn't try to.

She would not forget the wave of fluttering she felt. As if the fluttering wings hosted its own air show in her tummy, soaring endlessly with it's delicate gliding that was a sensation. It was tiny. It was pleasant.

--

Baby butterflies. Seulgi named the ever growing sensation the occurred frequently, familiar with such an odd yet amazing experience. It confused her to no end. She was not one to feel such emotions. Feeling like no other that Seulgi had ever come across before. The scent of almond that haunts her senses causing her heart to leap and melt but at the same time it soothes her better than any lullaby. It blooms too familiar for Seulgi to realize, and when she did, it was no different. Was she already in too deep?

Of course, Seulgi wouldn't have experienced these absurd sensations without her best friend, Son Seungwan. The puzzle that Seulgi couldn't piece together, and when she tried, she still couldn't solve how it made her feel. It was one hell of a ride. Like any mystery, it captivated and thrilled her to no end, no matter how frustrating it was. With that, Seulgi couldn't stop when it came with Seungwan, nor did she want to stop.

"Who is Seungwan?" Seulgi had thought many times before. She was a saint, an angel. Seungwan was exceptionally tender-hearted who wouldn't hesitate to regard others before herself. Without any expectations, she wouldn't hesitate to assist someone.

Not to mention she looked like one as well. Where should Seulgi start? Her effortless locks that bounces everytime she her head to the side in confusion, how her cheeks are very cute and quite fluffy, her slender body, or her radiant grins (and taunting smirks that seems y more than intimidating). It didn't matter, it looked cute no matter what to Seulgi. Maybe she was just biased... Hm.

But, who was Seungwan to her? Seulgi couldn't find a suitable answer. She couldn't grasp a proper definition that pleased her. When will she though?

Autumn, Winter, and now Spring. Through the seasons, dividing the time, they had grown closer. It was funny how quick the two effortlessly became friends with their common interests, like two birds in a feather. Neither complained, it was a natural course, or so they felt. As inseperable their bond may be, strange emotions bud. It's tiny, and barely noticeable until one digs deeper than is needed. A mystery indeed. But, right now, they don't bother. Their friendship continues to blossom without struggle, and no obstacles in the way of something great. Nothing to divide them two, not even time alone. It may have applied to some unspoken emotions as well.

The refreshing breeze dances lightly today. While the sun hikes the wisps of clouds, the wind carries the leaves, blowing as it sweeps the sidewalk. Seulgi awaits along the tumbling leaves, tapping and drawing intricacies onto her skin with a wandering finger. The wind helps freshens her mind somehow, as if it cools the tumbling thoughts she has. She never thought a friendship like hers with Seungwan would be so complicated. She had invested many thoughts into their relationship, she liked to, it gave her more reasons and excuses to yearn for their unique bond. It was Seulgi's way of making something special, or gain a personal sentimental value. Her thoughts continue to stray, failing to notice the soft footsteps behind.

"Seulgi~." Singsonged a honey-like voice. Turning her attention to the certain hamster-like woman who was smiling cheekily, Seulgi couldn't help but chuckle at the sight.

"Wan-ah~." Seungwan pouts before responding.

"You shouldn't ignore your best friend you know. What kind of tumbleweed thoughts are jumbling up your brain right now?"

Seulgi fails to stifle her smirk, dropping her stare to the shorter girl's glazed lips. "I'm thinking about how soft your lips are against mine. I mean, I think I have soft lips. I think your's are just fine, so maybe we should- Hey!" A rather painful prod to the ribs it is, but Seulgi doesn't regret her decision as a blooming rosy blush can be observed on Seungwan's puffed cheeks. What a cute pout.

"ert." Seungwan whispers lowly, stopping her grumbling with another shove to the shoulder. Seulgi's giddy smirk softens to a playful tight-lipped smile.

"Awh, you know you like it."

"Shush." Seungwan recovers, with no other wise cracks to make. "Anyway, thanks for waiting. Are you ready to go to the theatre?"

"Well, of course." Seulgi adds a dramatic pause, forming a solemn frown which effectively alarms the other. "But, I'm sorry that I haven't said this before. I didn't want you to hate me but I wanted to say something before.."

A stern look like practiced. "I think I'm sick, Wan-ah."

And as planned, a wave of panic engulfs Seungwan as a ball hypes about Seulgi in the form of an alarmed and worried hamster.

"What?! Why didn't you tell me? Oh my gosh, what sickness? What's wrong?" Seulgi splits a mischievious smirk, eyes glinting.

"Love sick."

An unpleasant smack as expected.

"You wise crack, stupid bear!" Another prick to the side.

"Ey, abuse!"

"Seul, I was worried! Stupid gomdori, what a jerk."

"Hey! I think from how much this occurs, I would have thought that you got it by now."

"You would have thought that by how often this occurs, you're just going to get hit again."

"Well, I couldn't resist 'cause you are so adorable, Wan-ah~." A gentle press to her rosy cheek. "You are so cute, such a hamster."

"Let's just go before I hit you again." Seungwan huffs, tugging gently on her sleeve which betrayed the harsh expression she played. Seulgi grins wider, playfully skipping along.

"Yes, ma'am!" Seulgi loops an arm mischieviously around Seungwan's craned neck that peers up in surprise, an unreadable emotion swirl in the chocolate sea of her irises that goes unnoticed. Seulgi cushions her cheek onto her crown. "Shall we get ice cream after the movie, princess?"

"W-Whatever..."

"Ey, I'll buy you your favourite. Will that make you forgive me?"

"If you pay, of course." The small girl teases, failing to hold up her cold exterior as she chuckles lightly into the breeze.

"Good then."

"And, you know Seulgi, it's actually quite nice down here despite you being a giant compared to me. I mean, the cushioning is nice down here too."

Oof, karma. Seulgi retracts her arm in shock, lightly slapping the girl's pawing hand. Her cheeks aflame, a tingle fires warmly under her skin as her bones shiver despite how hot Seulgi feels. Seungwan, chuckles darkly, which elicits another incoherent string of words to tumble from Seulgi's tongue. With that act, she raises her palms in surrender, an innocent facade plastered on the short girl. Seulgi curses under her breathe, fighting her growing blush.

(Seulgi: 0 ---- Seungwan: 1)

--

Seulgi blinks, unable to process at the sight. Who knew for such a small wisp of a girl that she could have some muscle?

A howl of triumphant victory escapes Seungwan's mouth, decreasing to a gurgle of laughter.

"I, the deemed winner, beat you, foul loser, for the tenth time now!" Seulgi hisses, curling her fingers in embarassment. If she had known that she was this competetive - not to mention quite skilled at these arcade games - she wouldn't have boasted so much. So much for her cool reputation.

"Ey, I only lost six rounds with you.." Seulgi whiningly pouts, p up her lips. Seungwan rolls her eyes with a fond shake of her head. "Yeah, at this game. I already got, like, a couple of stuffies from this claw machine. You have none."

"I beat you many times on the dancing game..."

"Okay, okay, you can have that one. So stubborn." The comment was finished with a teasing laugh more than mocking. Seulgi tears her eyes away once she realizes her stare lingered a second more. "Well, I just wanted one, especially that bear..." Her finger glides on the glass pane, the only barrier between the perky plush with caramel fur (another barrier stopping Seulgi would be her lack of skill at this game) and herself.

When a pause thickens, Seulgi peers at Seungwan who's rummaging through her purse. She meets her gaze with soft eyes as Seungwan twirls a dollar in her fingers. She grins, the coin into her palm. "You owe me one, Seulgi."

Before they knew it, Seulgi grasps Seungwan's tiny fist within her own, enclosing them as she caresses her knuckles with the pads of her thumbs. With that, Seulgi couldn't help but delicately pecking Seungwan's knuckle after she saw her questioning gaze. The brush of her lips to the crease of the girl's knuckle swelled an emotion in her, confidence. She wills herself to back away when she came too close to Seungwan, close enough that she could count her eyelashes. Seulgi clears . Her nerves racked in her, but it didn't show.

"A butterfly kiss, for luck?" Seulgi's eyes closes into charming crescents, feeling bold after witnessing the climbing pink tinge on Seungwan's ears.

"B-butterfly kiss? W-wow, you really want that bear..." Seungwan who was bashful in all her greatness, but came of more like an ethereal beauty to Seulgi. Was it normal to have a sudden urge to kiss your best friend?

The short woman unwillingly retreats her arm, which struck Seulgi with mild dissapointment which she hides behind pressed lips in a tight smile. Nonetheless, she was glad - but more curious than anything - with the reaction she elicited. She rolls away the jumble of thoughts that buzz at the back of her mind, focusing on how Seungwan plays the buttons and the game's sticks smoothly. How her lithe digits being able to work the game well and how cute she looked with a pink tongue peeking out between pearl-like teeth while she focused with a slight frown. How she would've noticed that in the first place and how it confuses herself.

Seungwan releases a squeal, her lips curling when she beams. She retreats to Seulgi with a pounce to her steps, a yellow-bear with a shine to its coat and doe-like eyes in hand. An aureate light didn't come from the reflection of the teddy bear's pelt, but the shine in the giddy grin Seungwan had.

"Here you go, Seul." Her best friend reaches out to give the bear and Seulgi takes it. They begin to trek leisurely through the arcade, falling into a gradual pace with each other.

"Thank you, Wan-ah." Seulgi murmurs, smoothing the slight dishevel to the bear's fur and tucking it between the inside of her elbow. "I guess that butterfly kiss did work, huh?"

"Shut up, Kang Seulgi. That was all skill." Huffs Seungwan playfully. "Where did you get that in the first place..."

Seulgi didn't really know. It was more out of the moment statement. It spilled out of , the words already forming before she could register what was happening. She replies anyway.

"I guess, butterflies are very beautiful. Kisses are too..?" Seungwan fights the creeping flush once more.

"Very poetic."

"Ey.." Seulgi pauses, rolling along after pondering on her thoughts. "Well, butterflies are symbolic for transformation. You know, with all the process of metamorphosis and all.." Seungwan angles her head to her. "And with transformation, I would say that our friendship is transforming."

"How so?" They both slow down to a halt.

A breathe and Seulgi continues, revealing a part of herself that she hasn't figured out yet. It was a mystery, her feelings when it came to Seungwan, it was an uncharted territory that was yet to be solved. But it was Seungwan, her dearest friend, so she lets her tongue loose.

"It may just be me, but I think our friendship is unique. I mean, we work well together, and we are great friends... I think we are progressing to something better, stronger. Something greater than anything we could imagine or has yet to experience. Our bond is deepening every moment we share. It's like our relationship is blossoming, or rather transforming to something very beautiful. Don't you think so?" Seulgi drops her gaze the floor after the buzzing static from her mind was finally let loose in a form of words. When silence embraces the couple, Seulgi didn't expect glassy eyes to peer at her with exuberance when she met her stare.

With a gape to , Seungwan was baffled with no words. Recovering, a different kind of beam was plastered onto her glossy lips. An unexplainable emotion swirls in her orbs that Seulgi has never seen before. The conversation - that felt oddly like a confession - was an interesting dig and insight to Seulgi's unexplained emotions, but even without words, Seungwan was still able to comfort her. But that didn't stop the ever growing inquiries and confusion within her.

"You don't know how much I'm glad to hear that." Seungwan says. "I also feel the same."

The sudden gaiety in whispers of wings dancing alight in Seulgi can be felt as they fall in comfortable silence.

--

Christmas dawns on them and merriment was the usual atmosphere.

The school staff and students are more light-hearted and full of glee than usual and the christmas spirit was in the air. Seulgi couldn't feel anything less than happy, she was typically ecstatic. She couldn't help but to think it was the first Christmas that she would share with her best friend, musical extraordinaire, goof ball and object of unknown emotions. Of course, it was none other than the beauty, Son Seungwan.

It was the usual morning class with the lack of the scintillating sun in full view through the window panes. The room buzzed with laughter and mirth, the usual chatter. The usual seating placements filled, and the usual teacher waltzing in with an expected cheerful smile, and the lesson goes on as predicted. Sadly, Seungwan's seat remained empty, which wasn't normal and brought a gloom in Seulgi despite being all bright smiles and cheeky giggles just before.

--

"You should have called me..."

The fragile curled figure that could be made out from the cocoon of bundled blankets snifled. Seulgi crosses her legs on the crumpled sheets of the bed beside the poor girl, offering a tissue which the latter took gratefully. Seulgi sneaks a chance to observe the girl carefully. Donned with a loose t-shirt that hung loose on one shoulder (which showed a smooth mounted collarbone, distracting much?), sweatpants that were too big for her, disordered hair, droopy eyes, evident dark circles, and snot trails.

"I am sick. So I couldn't help but sleep in, especially with the nasty fever I have." Seungwan nasally murmurs, before heaving another blow to the bunched tissues. "And with my headache, oh man. Besides, I don't want you worrying about me. You have school work!"

Seulgi scoffs. "Which can wait. It's Christmas! The teachers will be fine."

"Just you try Mrs. Shin next door, I dare you." With a mention of a particular strict teacher who happened to be their English teacher, they both shudder.

"Well~ You can always help me with that, right bestie?" Seulgi cheekily beams, patting a piece of tissue at the girl's runny nose despite her weak protests.

"I feel very appreciated." Seungwan sarcastically mumbles. "As much as I would love to help with your homework, you should go, before I get you sick."

"Oh, Seungwanie~ You already infected me with your charm and beauty."

"Cheesy much."

"Only for you~."

A sigh bubbles to Seungwan's parched throat. "I must look terrible right now. Who gets sick on Christmas season?" She weaves her fingers through her bunched locks. Seulgi joins in with smoothing out her disheveled appearance. "You want me to kiss it away with a butterfly kiss?" A teasing smirk plays on Seulgi's lips. Despite her weak condition, Seungwan still prods painfully as ever.

"Not the ribs, not the ribs!" Seulgi scampers away, dodging the sluggish attempts of the protruding finger to jab at her. A rosy Seungwan puffs her cheeks as she sits back wearily, crossing her arms defensively. Seulgi crawls back warily, plopping down beside the latter to recover her breath.

"To be honest though, you look fine." Seulgi whispers, attracting the sick girl's attention. "You still look beautiful."

"...T-thanks." The reddening stain on Seungwan's cheeks tempts to deepen. Seulgi notices and releases a deep chuckle that was released through her nose. "Cute."

Silence. It's happening more often between these kinds of moments. It was all fun and teases, until it subtly ends with a shade of crimson adorned on both girls. All thanks to Seulgi's teasing and jokes, but Seulgi questions if it was genuinely innocent fun.

Something is growing inside Seulgi, she doesn't know what it may be, but the increasing frequencies of the family of baby butterflies stored in her was a gradual change that Seulgi couldn't help but notice. She felt giddy, her palms would sweat ever so slightly, her flesh would crawl in a tingle and her heart continued to play an orchestra's melody. Delight and excitement swell frequently in her chest cavity, and those were the emotions she could make out. The rest were not as easy.

At times, there was a hint of dissapointment but that occurred rarely. Longing, which happened often unlike the sadness she sometimes feels. Confusion, always. And all these emotions was due to Seungwan. Dissapointment and gloom sits on her shoulders every time she pulls away from an embrace, or when she looks away, or when she leaves the room for a short while. The longing sensation she notices increases every teasing session they have, let alone every moment they spend together. The thing is, she doesn't know what she longs for, and it introduces Seulgi to another door full of questions, as if there weren't dozens already.

Not long ago, Seulgi had enough of the unanswered inquiries and resorted to discussing such matters with another close friend she had, Park Sooyoung. The conversation did... not go so smoothly. Conversation? More like consistent bickering and guffawing laughter (and wheezing chuckles) from the younger one who repeatedly called her for being a "block-head" and a "daft, blind bear" when she introduced her thoughts. It irked her to see that someone would've "solved" her problem with ease which she spent day after day trying to solve. But apparently, from Sooyoung, it was as clear as day. Which leads to her conclusion:

"It's love, you dumb bear."

Love? Seulgi was drowning more than ever in the sea that is her mind. Of course, she loved her best friend. She was her friend after all. Who wouldn't like their friends?

And she asked just that. Sooyoung scoffed, smacking an open palm to her forehead.

"You like her more than that, more than friends." The conversation ended there, leaving a silent Seulgi.

Even if it was as bright as day light, or as crystal clear as it was... Seulgi couldn't think of it that way. She concluded that Sooyoung was a romance-crazed teenager who makes of every situation to be of hopeless romance and sappy love which Seulgi disagrees to. She never felt it of course, she knew love was real, but how could one easily decide to be in love with someone? It wasn't that easy, or was it? Seulgi was distraught and stressed.

Seulgi liked Seungwan, right? But as a friend. Nothing more.

When her temples started to ache, she leaves the confines of the wandering speculations, turning her attention back to reality where she hadn't noticed Seungwan on the verge of slumber who seemed to be willing herself conscious.

Seulgi reaches an open palm to soothingly pat on the crown of the hamster-like girl, hushing her to sleep. The latter questioningly peeks at Seulgi, squeezing a mini Olaf plush they won at the arcade not long ago. The taller girl just smiles, swirling emotions occupy her again. At that moment, even though it was impulsive of Seulgi, she decides that she would consider the possibility of loving this tiny woman.

With that in mind, she plants a comforting smooch to the curled up girl's hairline. Pulling back to witness Seungwan's droopy eyes to flutter close.

For the rest of the evening, Seulgi hummed a tranquilizing lullaby which both girls fell asleep to.

--

From that moment on, Seulgi is struggling against the strings that she had woven. The reflections, the amount of doors of thoughts, were all confining Seulgi. Like a backlash of putting them off to the back of her mind, an unpleasant torture. The product of overthinking, which was a curse itself.

"Hey, did you hear that Jang Sangchul is going to ask that girl, Son Seungwan, out?" Some gossiped, a mix of female and male students. Seulgi falters in her steps, halting at overhearing the conversation.

"Really? Wow, the player back at it again, eh?" A short girl said with clean cut bangs to hide the raised eyebrows. 'Player?' Seulgi had panicked slightly.

"Ey, I think he dropped being a player, and a jerk. Maybe he genuinely likes her." The tall woman in the circle cooly stated. A couple from the bunch hummed in agreement while others shook their heads.

"Once a player, always a player though. That poor li'l girl, her heart is going to be crushed." A guy with unkept, jet black hair coos.

"I agree with her though, maybe he really likes her this time. It seems like it. He gets nervous, giddy and all." Another man, short but bony, notes.

"She's really pretty. Not to mention she's, like, really nice. An angel who's talented at everything." The short woman from before admits. "I would think she's way out of Sungchul's league, but does she like him too?" A few buzzed in with immediate answers.

"On the first day of school that she transferred here, I saw them laughing together and talking in class. It happened a few times after too!"

"Maybe that's just a friendly conversation though."

"They were a bit touchy-feely though..."

"Maybe you are just imagining that with your erted mind."

"Hey, I'm not erted."

"Guys, guys. Stop it. When is he asking her out?" The tall, lanky girl spoke.

"After school, probably." Answered another. "I heard he also brought flowers, but maybe people are just making stuff up."

"Well, this will be interesting."

The conversation toned down into a low buzz of agreements.

An unpleasant pang causes a tense clench that pains Seulgi at the conversation that loops on replay, unable to shove it to the back of her mind.

A date, with Seungwan, after school, Jang Sangchul. She felt like drowning, worst of all, she didn't fully understand why. Seulgi promised herself to consider the possible crush on Seungwan, and she expected something cute and sweet, the typical image of sappy romance. She didn't expect that it could take hold of her heart like this; draining her energy and emotional strength. Seulgi wanted nothing but to make it stop. It was a ball fisted into the cavity of her chest and her mind, uneasy and painful.

Maybe it was causing her uneasiness due to Sangchul's reputation for a heartbreaker. Seulgi wouldn't dare let such a toxic figure to haunt her best friend's life, especially if said person was such a delicate person, like a porcelain vase - beautiful but fragile. He may be physically attractive, have mediocre grades, or be more naturally fit to take care of a woman like his own. But Seulgi knew she, a true angel, deserved much better than this world could offer. Then again, who was she to determine Seungwan's decisions for herself? Seulgi hisses between gritted teeth. The mere idea of them both together was enough for a grunt to climb .

Sangchul likes and wants her, but does Seungwan feel the same?

It was a grey area between the best friends. The topic and discussion concerning love and crushes weren't brought up frequently, which puts Seulgi to a blind question. She didn't know anything about her love life, and that was another barrier between the blossoming bond of theirs that they haven't explored yet. That was harsh slap for Seulgi, ending her fit of momentary disdain as she enters an environment of uncertainty.

Seated at her desk, she cranes her neck to warily observe the man on the other side of the room. He was all too busy with laughing and giddily spouting words after another to Seungwan. A warm and content gaze from Sangchul lingers on Seungwan's profile when it was her turn to talk, a slight tug to his lips and his cheek leaning on his palm. Seulgi scrutinizes his reactions, his behaviour and his body language, scavenging for flaws. But she came with more reasons to doubt her initial promise to herself.

Sangchul truly looks like a normal student, with a crush, expectations and ideals. Someone normal that could take care of her. It dawns on Seulgi.

With the consideration coming to mind, Seulgi was tempted to mock herself for such stupidity. Someone normal. If she did like Seungwan, why would she be chosen over someone like Sangchul in the first place, who's a male? Seulgi couldn't help but darkly chortle, hanging her head low at the realization. She's a woman for goodness sake. It wasn't deemed normal, or at least in Korea. How dare she judge the man for being a possible candidate for Seungwan's heart when she was already far down below than she could reach? He was a mountain, while she was at the sea's end. How selfish am I, thinking that I could ever be an option?

The reflection pulled harshly on her heart. It was dripping with mild pain and guilt.

But I'm her friend right? If this guy treats her well, and she likes him too, I'll support her. She was the best friend of Seungwan, and if she wasn't an option, she'll support her friend's love life like the best friend she is. She'll be the best there is.

The bell seals off that resolution, tying a knot.

"Okay, class. Open up your books."

--

"Seulgi~," Seungwan skips to the bear after the last bell, with a peppy smile. "Want to get ice cream with me?" Seulgi scrunches her lips before hiding it behind an animated facade. "When will he ask?" "After school, probably."

"I'm sorry, Wan-ah. I'm busy after school." Seungwan halts, stiff.

"Busy? With what?" Seungwan questions, a frown graced her eyebrows. Seulgi shifts her gaze to the wall. She was never a good liar, but this was for Seungwan she thinks.

Seulgi could see an inquisitive Sangchul tittering on his toes at the other end, worriedly stalling as other students stampede out of the classroom. With a sigh, she rushes an excuse.

"I-I have an appointment with my family doctor after school today..." Seungwan's breathe hitches just quietly enough for her to make out. She knows it was a crappy excuse, but she runs along with it. Gloom raking at her sides as it gets more difficult every breath. "I'll have to go quickly, I'm sorry." She ends lightly with a nod.

Seungwan purses her lips, her tongue was ready to make a statement, but she wills it to buzz down. Playing a small smile, she replies. "Okay, tell me how it goes later."

She turns, grasping her bag a little too tight, much to Sangchul's delight.

Darn, did that sting. Seulgi sluggishly brings her own bag to her side, falling to a slow stride.

--

A low chatter catches Seulgi's attention, especially when it sounded like Seungwan's honey-like voice. Seulgi lulls to a stop by the gym, it's doors hung open, almost teasingly for the curious Seulgi.

When she tempts a wary peek, she was overwhelmed with the harsh crash of the waves of emotion. It engulfed her, embracing her unpleasantly.

With the dim lighting, one could make out a couple. Seulgi's heart no longer rejoiced a jubilant melody, but a creepingly melancholic tune. She couldn't express how she felt; as if her heart was torn open, like the scene playing before her acting like a rather agonizing rake to the protective walls of her emotions. It also felt like her chest giving way with the overwhelming stab of torment, tearing away relentlessly because it wouldn't stop, no matter how much Seulgi grasps at her ribs.

With the torturing sight of the said couple, their lips pressed tightly to each other, Sangchul's hands tensely clung to Seungwan's nape. Seulgi sweeps her eyes away, tearing herself away, just like how her heart is ripping apart. Who knew she could have such a paper heart, she thought she was able to handle this well. But it hurt more than she thought.

The saddest part? The reflection dooming Seulgi's pounding temples. And she hated herself more than ever before.

She loves Seungwan. 

She found the answer to the haunting thoughts that drive Seulgi up the wall. The unknown emotions that were relentless in fearlessly blossoming in her chest (and how it withers like flowers in the cold of winter). How the depth of the abyss that is her mind singsongs animated tunes that soothes her as well as pumps adrenaline through her veins (which are now of ink and lead). Or how light her soul felt, like basking in sanguine emotions that alleviated Seulgi (and how heavy it feels now with chains that restricts her to hope - to long - for more). As fast as this revelation saw the light, it shrivels pathetically, confined in Seulgi's pandora box of endless thoughts once again but with a new name. That new name that only rages, seizing Seulgi's heart, as it rakes agonizingly at it. Love. Oh how late she was to realize, and it only rubs salt to her fresh wounds.

The love that she almost had, but the one she unknowingly neglected and pushed away.

The butterflies who were once small creatures that buzzed excitingly in her at discovering new love, now fully grown with a sense of familiarity that occupies Seulgi, symbolizing the affection that escaped its confines in her. It was like a trophy of how her love blossomed and was able to break through its own cocoon and overcome obstacles. Seulgi knew. That these little critters died a little along with the late realization. And it was her fault.

Seulgi sulks away with heavy feet. If only she stayed a tad bit longer would she be able to make out the ringing slap that reverbrated the walls of the gymnasium.

--

"Seulgi... How was the appointment? Are y-" A press to a button.

"Can you pick up? I-"

"Seulgi, this isn't like you. Plea-"

"Kang Seulgi! Answ-"

"Are you ignoring me? Can-"

"Seulgi, what's wro-"

"Seul-"

"Did I do something wrong?" Her finger stops as it hovers over her cellphone's buttons. The voicemail plays on while Seulgi lays rigid under her sheets, letting Seungwan's apologetic voice press her heart's own buttons.

"I don't even know if this will get through to you. I hope it does." A pause as the other line buzzes with a quiet sigh. "It doesn't take an idiot to see that you're ignoring me. Did I do something wrong?" No, it's her own fault. But Seungwan was always stubborn in such selfless way.

"If I did, I'm truly sorry. Can.. Can we talk about it? Please? I'll be waiting at the playground by your house. Do you remember?" Of course, they shared many splendid moments together there. Unfortunately their feelings weren't mutual. "I hope you come. I'll be there." The line ends with a beep and a weary breath from Seulgi before rustling out of bed to get ready.

--

The creaking chafe of rusty chains against bolts is the only sound of the night as Seulgi swings back and forth on the empty playground. It was dark out at night, the sky was stained navy blue as the luminous star that lit their solar system retreats to the horizon, painting the rim gold. It was a beautiful sight that Seulgi couldn't admire at the moment.

Seulgi wrung her hands as she rubs her palms repeatedly in order to create heat that battles the chill of dusk. She was waiting nervously, dreading the meeting. It was clear that Seungwan knew something was wrong, and she was bound to ask, but Seulgi doesn't know if she's ready to confess. Bringing the feelings that were a mystery to light made her feel vulnerable. After all, if Seulgi thinks about it, she's offering her heart and the raw emotions to Seungwan who she thinks is already too far out of her reach. She was the sun when Seulgi was just another mere person who admired such greatness. Comparing herself to the dozens of others who flock to Seungwan was ridiculous.

If she doesn't confess, she gets to treasure the friendship they had built together. The strong affection that is their foundation, it keeps both of them content. If she confesses, that will be lost. Their boat of closeness and their accord with eachother will sink, only leaving memories to float hopelessly. Seulgi doesn't like the idea.

She also ponders that, if she doesn't empty her heart out, it will only suffocate her (not to mention their relationship) in the future. If she speaks now, she will truly discover Seungwan's answer (even though Seulgi was sure of the answer, but needed the confirmation). Yes, it will definitely hurt Seulgi. But with the one-sided thoughts on the scale, she couldn't balance the situation if she doesn't hear Seungwan's. But that didn't will Seulgi to bring herself to confess.

The crunch of pebbles that approach her takes away the blindfold of her thoughts that clouds Seulgi's vision. She tilts around, meeting the gaze of the pair of golden eyes that Seulgi waited for.

"Seulgi..." Seungwan murmurs, taking a seat on the other swing beside hers, the chains clanking at the sudden weight. She furrows her eyebrows, hands clenched at her lap. "Can you tell me what's wrong? You've been acting off today." Seulgi breathes, exhaling loudly through her nose.

"Yes, I know. I'm sorry. The appointment was okay." She starts, treading carefully, cracking a small forced grin.

"I know that was a lie."

"...I know." Seulgi hangs her head low, she doesn't bother acting like everything was peppy anymore. It truly wasn't when her heart was only torn open not long ago.

"Mind explaining yourself to me?" Seulgi's thoughts begin to rumble once again, she fights it back down.

"I rather not."

"Why?"

"Because if I did, I'll be exposing myself."

"Then how could I help?" Seungwan offers, a hint of desperation laced in her words.

Seulgi shakes her head. "You can't. No one can." Seungwan's frown deepens, as she abruptly stands to kneel in front of Seulgi's lap, resting a hand on her knee.

"I'm worried, Seulgi. Can you please tell me? I'm your best friend aren't I? Let me help the best I can." Seulgi sweeps her gaze away from her eyes.

"No, you'll just hate me." She whispers and silence follows. The kneeling girl breaks the tense air first.

"Seulgi, I will never hate you for anything you've ever done in your life. Even if you robbed a bank, or stolen a car, I wouldn't hate you. Unless you pour milk first before your cereal then we need to talk." Seungwan cracks a joke to lighten the atmosphere, which eased Seulgi nonetheless.

Seulgi catches her concerned eyes that were fixed onto hers, gazing intently. It made her look pretty, her wide brown eyes that scorched gold in the sunlight, but with those eyes peering so intently at her, she decides to spare Seungwan's concern.

"What were you doing in the gym?" The inquiry shocks Seungwan enough to make her stumble on her feet. It didn't stop the twinge in Seulgi's chest.

"You saw what happened?"

"Yeah."

Seungwan heaves a breath. "What did you see?"

"You and Jang Sangchul kissing." She closes her eyes, steeling herself for what may come.

"No." Seulgi raises an eyebrow in surprise and Seungwan continues. "He kissed me. I didn't."

"What do you mean?" A frown plastered on Seulgi's eyebrows.

"He kissed me without my consent. He forced himself onto me. He forcefully put his lips to mine." The words that spilled out of Seungwan's mouth runs laps in Seulgi's mind, anger bubbling at the thought of that darn Sangchul forcing Seungwan. "Oh."

Seungwan light-heartedly giggles, stalling the anger rising in Seulgi. "What did you think it was?" Seulgi retreats her palm that covered her face, her ears that protruded from her hair were tinged pink.

"I thought you liked him..."

"Me? Like him? Why?" Seungwan asks, nudging her calf with amusement alight in her eyes.

"Well.. We don't really talk about crushes much so I thought you liked him, besides you were kissing, what was I supposed to think..." A light sigh pours from the kneeled girl's mouth, still a slight smirk on her lips.

"Too bad then. I like someone else." Another gash to her heart. By now Seulgi would think her heart would be a gory mush of emotions by now. Seulgi builds a mask of innocence and intrigue.

"Really? Who?" Seulgi steels her nerves.

"Hm. Why do you want to know?" Seungwan crosses her arms, resting them atop of Seulgi's lap, cocking her head mischievously.

"I-I'm your friend aren't I?"

"Well, I guess so. So, I'll offer hints, so ask away." Seulgi knits her brows. Is she really playing a game right now? Seulgi plays along anyway.

"Okay, fine. Are they nice?"

"Yep." Seungwan pops the 'p', smiling at Seulgi which made the pink in her ears to deepen. Thank goodness it was cold outside.

"A-are they your friend?"

"Yes."

"How attractive are they?"

"Very."

"Smart?"

"In their own ways I guess."

"Tall?"

"Taller than me."

"Everyone is taller than you." A light slap to the thigh and the atmosphere became light-hearted and playful. Seulgi eases herself when she sees the typical pout on Seungwan's lips like expected.

"Har-har."

"Do they take care of you very well?"

"More than you'll ever know." At those words Seulgi hurts a bit. She also takes care of her well doesn't she?

"Then, are they good at singing? Art? Dancing?"

"All of them."

"Wow, must be the talented person they are." Seulgi notes. "Is it...  Choi Yoojin from next door?" She picks a senior who was known for being quite talented at the Performing Arts and who was kind. She was sure the two of them have been aquaintanced before as they were interested in the same field. But Seungwan shakes her head cutely.

"Is it someone I know in our school?"

"I'll be worried if you don't." Seungwan scoffs. So someone well-known in our school?

Seulgi frowns, frustrated. Seungwan could only peer up at her with knowing eyes.

"This is getting hard."

"Well, you are asking very simple questions."

"Fine, what's their shoe size?"

"Ey..." Seungwan pauses. "It's seven and a half." Seulgi gapes at her best friend, eyes wide as saucers, scoffing in disbelief.

"How do you know their shoe size? Do you stalk them?"

"I know because I do. And no, of course not."

"I'm creeped out. It's even the same as mine." Seulgi notes, her lips in a stiff line.

"I guess it is."

"Okay, what's their credit card number?" Another smack to the thighs. "Ey, I'm just asking the important questions here."

"How would I know that?!"

"If you know their shoe size, I want to see if you know their credit card number. Besides I'm broke and I need money right now."

Seungwan sighs, shifting her legs to sit on the pebbles, stretching her legs to rest from being in an uncomfortable position for too long.

"Okay, what's their favourite snack?"

"Pringles, it's their love."

"Excuse me, that's my love." Seulgi says, waving a finger. Even with her cool exterior, she can't help but spasm at the newly founded facts about Seungwan's so-called crush. The few facts fits her profile well, and the hope dreadfully climbs in Seulgi. She wills herself to drown such thoughts, smothering them with the ashes of her raw emotions that were hurt. It was impossible to like her right? She was a girl, and compare to all the other candidates (preferably male) for Seungwan, how can she be chosen?

Seungwan notes the slight questioning quirk in Seulgi's eyebrows and the squint of her eyes. She beams knowingly, deciding to drop the act. This dumb bear.

"They have the tendency to sleep late until 'noon. They carry an odd yet adorable bear lunch bag. They can weirdly speak Japanese well. They have a beautiful smile, and not to mention, a perfect eye smile. Weirdly have magnificent abs. A delicate voice. Mono eyelids that are so endearing on them. Gorgeous hair. And luscious lips that I love very much. Do you have any clue to who it is?" Seungwan singsonged playfully, her chin digging into her palm as her slender digits thrummed on her puffed cheek in mock thought.

Seulgi didn't think it would come back. But the flock of butterflies were as alive as ever. They soared and dipped in magnificent turns in her chest, once again an airshow of surging emotions. Hope sung in cantabile that struck an up-beat chant in Seulgi.

Was it me? But no, how can she be the one... Maybe she's just talking about someone else? How and why would she look at me? I'm not pretty, I don't have beautiful locks of hair... A lot of the boys have abs, maybe she likes one of the athletic men?

She tries to stifle the ideas, but she knows it wouldn't listen. And it doesn't, it rebels against the last desperate measures Seulgi takes, bursting triumphantly through the layers of doubt.

Seungwan chuckles at the bothered expression playing on Seulgi's demeanor. She strains her aching legs to a stand with a fond smile. She deftly cups Seulgi's cheeks, angling it upwards to meet her longing gaze which the seated girl reciprocates with a confused and hopeful stare. Didn't Seulgi know that Seungwan also felt the mutual attraction? Difference is, the butterflies in her own stomach were raging a storm that Seungwan couldn't possibly ignore from the very beginning.

"Stupid bear, you think too much."

The fire that is their yearning affection lights between their connected lips, the sensation of new beginnings that were long anticipated. Their love that was restricted to themselves is finally released, the astounding flight of their butterflies flutter to the skies that is of desire. Who knew a single kiss could cause emotions to overwhelm both so wonderfully? The fragance of almond and lavender melt their doubts, they bask in each other's embrace. Oh how their heart sings, serenading a blossoming warmth that only the two of them understand.

They separate, with half-lidded eyes and parted lips, but lingering emotions. Seulgi was free of the curse of her mind, and how Seungwan was able to prove her thoughts wrong.

"You like me?" Seulgi asks, though she doesn't have to. Seungwan cachinnated, gasping for air as she lulls to a stop with a few giggles still grasping onto the Seulgi's cheeks.

"Isn't.. that.. obvious?" She mumbles, craning her head down to plant pecks with each breath. Seulgi beams, her heart on an endless flight, refreshened. When Seungwan pulls away, Seulgi hooks an arm around the waist of the short girl, earning her a squeak.

"Does this mean you are mine now?"

"Isn't that obvious? These butterflies were because of you!" Seungwan teases, caressing the latter's nape.

Seulgi couldn't stop beaming brightly, still peering up like a child. "Can I get another kiss?"

Swooping down, they share a sweet kiss. A butterfly kiss that strengthens their bond, and their hearts binded into one.

Oh my gosh. Finally done after staying up until 11 PM for 3 days now. (-o-)

Word count: 9176 (Holy swiss cheese and Wendy's abs.)

Okay, so for anyone confused about this story:

The particularly "dark" parts of Seulgi's commentaries is because she's overthinking. Like "being trapped in this pandora's box that is her mind" as an example since I wanted to show that she was genuinely curious and intrigued by the "hidden emotions" that she denies to be love for Seungwan, and this causes her to overthink often.

Also the symbolism of the "butterflies" that both of them feel is supposed to be the symbol of transformation. I made the butterflies represent the blossoming affection between the two. For Seulgi, it starts off as baby butterflies since it shows the increasing yet small love that is growing in her, barely noticeable. Like a caterpillar at first, then evolving in the cocoon (which somehow represents the restrictions that Seulgi confines the beautiful butterfly - which is her love - to deny her emotions) and is broken when Seungwan and Seulgi unite.

Anyway, this is my first fanfiction, and I hope you guys truly enjoyed it. If there are any mistakes or errors within my writing, please say so, I'll edit the story. I also apologize if it's hard to read or follow, I hope you liked it nonetheless.

Thank you, have a great day!

- chibi_cookie (Author)