“What??? He said that?? He is totally a jerk!!”

“For God’s sake! I don’t know what to say. But one thing for sure, he must never date someone before.”

“Holy crap, did he even know the differences between fangirling and stalking? I feel like to swearing right now,”

“Who the hell is he? Hurry, say the name,”

“Girls please calm down. He wasn’t wrong, it’s actually my….”

“IT’S NOT YOUR FAULT! YOU ARE NOT WRONG!!!”

“Who? Do I know him? He is one of Mingyu’s friends right? Tell me!”

“No, I won’t. I don’t want to make a fuss,”

“Oh My God, Roseanne! Stop defending him! He is not worthy,”

The karaoke room was still noisy with their scream. But this time, not because of their singing but their anger. Their karaoke session now turned into the heart to heart talk. They spent one last hour of their session listening to the reason why Chaeyoung was crying.

The notification of the time remaining on their booking was seen on the TV screen. Lisa who saw it read it out loud. They all looked disappointed because they need more time. It’s not enough. They just started. They were sure there was a lot more to share.

“GET UP MA GURLS! LET’S SINGING THE LAST SONG PROUDLY. HERE WE COME THE NATIONAL ANTHEM!” Jisoo grabbed the microphone stood up. Jennie got the remote, push the song number then followed Jisoo’s step.

“GRAB YOUR MIC!!! WOOHOOO!!!” Jennie was screaming.

“THIS IS FOR ALL THE INDEPENDENT LADIES, OH OH OH, OH OH OH, LET’S GO!” Jisoo started the song.

“I can live well without a man. So, if you’re not confident, don’t come to me. I don’t sell myself easily because….” Jennie put the mic away to the crowd.

“I DON’T NEED A MAN I DON’T NEED A MAN!” Chaeyoung and Lisa were continuing the song

“WHAT???!!!” this time is Jisoo’s turn. She gave the mic to Chaeyoung and Lisa again who finally got up from the sofa.

“I DON’T NEED A MAN I DON’T NEED A MAN!!!”

The girls were spending their last 3 minutes efficiently until they lost their energy. They all were lying down on the sofa, laughing while organized their breath.

“Let’s go for the second round!” Jisoo offered as she didn’t felt satisfied.

“Great idea. Where should we go?” Lisa agreed but had no idea about their next destination.

“I think one hour is not enough. How about one night long?” Jennie raised her eyebrow then smirking naughtily.

“But, how about your study?” Chaeyoung was worried.

“That’s the point! I want to escape one night without studying. Don’t worry about my Mom. If you guys the one who comes, she won’t scold me. She trusts you gurls so much. Anyway, I have enough pajamas, underwear, and toothbrushes, so you don’t have to go home. Let’s go straight to my home,” Jennie was smiling happily. Jisoo and Lisa were agreed in no time. Chaeyoung also excited about the idea but there was still hesitancy shown on her face. Jennie could read it and told Chaeyoung she would ask Jin permission so she doesn’t need to worry. Jennie took her phone then called Jin right away while they were walking out of the room.

“Hello, Oppa!” Jennie greeted Jin on the phone.

“Hi, Jen! I am so busy right now. Yeah, you guys can go and having fun. Ah! And it’s better if you keep her for a night,” Jin was giving his permission even before Jennie said anything.

“Ooohh, well okay. Thank you,” Jennie was surprised but she was being grateful. She hung up the phone call and catching her friends who already arrived on the counter to pay for the bill.

***

The moon was shining brightly tonight. Anyone could see the beauty of the moon clearly from the balcony. It’s a bright night. The wide glasses door that separates the balcony and the room was closed by the broken-white curtain. The fur carpet was laid inside the room near the glasses door. The snack wraps, cups, water, and soda bottles were laid on it. The owner of the room and her friends were too tired to clean it up. They decided to clean it in the morning. The four of them were now hiding behind the comfortable blanket in the darkroom.

“Guys, are you asleep?” Chaeyoung asked her friends. She was staring at the dark ceiling of the room. It’s not completely dark although they turned off the lamp. The light from outside was bright enough to make their eyes able to identify the things inside the room.

“No, I am not,” Lisa answer while yawning. Jennie and Jisoo then answered with the same answer consecutively.

“Don’t you guys angry at me?” Chaeyoung muttered the question inside her head. This question made her can’t sleep.

“Why should we?” Lisa replied while turned her body to the right so that she could saw Chaeyoung who sleep beside her.

“Because I didn’t tell you guys sooner,” Chaeyoung felt shy when she said it but she was really sincere.

“About that jerk? Or about your fight with your schoolmates? Or both? Whichever it is, I don’t think that was classified as a problem,” Lisa pinched Chaeyoung’s cheek to encourage her to not worry.

Jisoo sat up and looked down at the extra bed beside her where Chaeyoung and Lisa were sleeping. She was smiling while looking at Chaeyoung’s blank face. Although she didn’t see Chaeyoung’s face clearly because there was only light from outside, she could imagine her expression.

“What a cutie. It remind me of myself when I was in your age. I once had a fight with my best friends. I was so furious because I found out she didn’t tell me about her problem. I felt so dumb and useless. How could I found out about her problem through other people who barely talk to her? I mad at her for almost a week. We made up but our relationship wasn’t as close as before. I felt betrayed. As I grow older, I realized that being labeled as “best friend” doesn’t mean you have to share every single thing of your life or your problem to them. Sometimes, you have some things that you don’t want to share with anyone. Some things also aren’t meant to be shared. Some things also are better to be shared with a complete stranger than someone you know. I tell you, it’s a normal thing.

“But, I can understand why your friends are mad at you. They are normal too. Girls your age tend to see friendship as loyalty. The relationship that makes you obligated to share everything that happened in your life whether it is sad or happy.

“It’s fine if you feel bad towards them and they are mad at you. It’s just how’s life is. It’s a process. This is the process during your journey to being mature. You must be grateful because you can handle this kind of problem in the early days so that you can handle it better in the future,” Jisoo smiled at Chaeyoung after she finished her story.

“aanndd why we didn’t mad at you because… we wait for you to tell us. We don’t want to force you. I know what kind of person you are. People have their own personalities. You tend to solve it first by yourself. But, once you seem to face a dead way, you will ask others for advice. That’s a great thing. I like that side of you.

“One thing you should know too. Some things are better to handle without a word, but some things should be solved with words. Telling us your problems could lift some burdens from your shoulder, so, it’s a good thing. But, if you think you can handle it silently, it’s okay too. Just like what Jisoo unnie said before, we can share a problem with people that we comfortable with. That’s why we aren’t mad because you choose to keep it with yourself. We also have a problem that we don’t share with you. It doesn’t mean we don’t trust you, it’s just… yeah maybe it’s best to share with someone else,” Jennie as the second oldest also gave her advice. She was too sleepy but she couldn’t lose to Jisoo. She should comfort Chaeyoug although she was talking with her eyes tightly closed.

“Thanks, unnies. When are you two being so wise like this? I really underestimate you guys a lot. I am sorry,” Chaeyoung was touched but she didn’t want to bring the atmosphere to become serious.

“They are not wiser than you. They just face that problem earlier than you,” Lisa joined Chaeyoung to attack their older friends which greeted with a treat from the older girls. They were laughing and in no time it was silent again. Each one of them fell into their own thought. It’s too quiet until they could hear the sound of the air conditioner and the clock.

“But Chaeng. If I were you, I will talk to my friends and tell them everything. I hate it when people misunderstand me. In my opinion, all of you were wrong. Jennie unnie was right. Things are better to solve with words. I know you are afraid to break your friendship. But as for me, if you don’t trust your friends it’s not counted as friendship. As time goes by, you will wear out. So, just face it. it’s now or never.

“It also applied to that boy. I tried to look at his perspective. He had a right to get angry. Although the way he treated you wasn’t right either. You admitted yourself that some of the things he said were true. But some weren’t. I thought you better meet him and explain everything. Not only to clear your name but …. to repair that broken trust. I know it’s easier said than done, but, you should change. You can’t let people judge you or treat you as their wish. You should speak up and defend yourself. Speak up doesn’t mean you do the bad things, it the opposite. You remind them about their wrongdoing. It’s a good thing to do. Whether they accept it or not, it’s up to them. We just warn them. And if they don’t want to accept it…,” Lisa paused, struggling to found the suitable words to continue.

“Just throw them away,” Jennie continued in her sleepy voice.

“Yeah, they don’t deserve you. You are too good for them,” Jisoo added.

“Hihihihi thanks. Anyway, Lisa is so wise and mature tonight. I am so proud that made my eyes teary,” Chaeyoung turned her head to Lisa and smile brightly to her. Lisa smiled back at her then both of them giggling.

“If today you ever thought Lisa is wise, then please erase it. She just thought more rationally, objectively than you because she didn’t involve in this situation. People who had a problem and consult it with others actually already know about the answer. They are just seeking for support and encouragement. Because when you are in trouble you tend to think with emotion,” Jisoo took this chance for revenge.

“But still, Lisa sounds so cool today. She is indeed so cool. I know that you purposely hide this side of you, right?” Chaeyoung raised one of her eyebrows and showed a naughty smile to Lisa.

“Sure. I purposely do that so that you can shine, unnie,” Lisa and Chaeyoung teamwork always the best when it comes to teasing their older sisters. Lisa took out her hand from the blanket and hi-fiving Chaeyoung while laughing out loud.

“Okay, fine!” Jisoo was pretending to get upset. She pulled her blanket and covered her face. Lisa and Chaeyoung were smiling suspiciously as they shared the same thought.

“AAAKKK!!!” Both Jisoo and Jennie were screaming out of pain as Chaeyoung and Lisa throw their body on them. They both were groaning in pain while the younger girls were laughing like crazy.

After successfully prank their older sisters, like the sweet and cute younger sisters they moved their body and hugged their sisters. Jisoo and Jennie were smiling at their cute behavior.

“Chaeng, don’t get so upset. He is not the only man in the world. You can find one who will treat you nicely and love you unconditionally,” Lisa was comforting Chaeyoung while covering her body with a blanket.

“Just date him,” said Jennie. Chaeyoung was confused. She was lifting her upper body, lean on her arm and stared at sleeping-Jennie.

“Who?” Jisoo asked.

“Jaehyun. You guys look good together. I saw you two spending break time together. You two act like you are the only one in this world. I thought you two could make a cute couple. So, just date him. You get my blessing,” Jennie continued talking while staring back at Chaeyoung with closed eyes.

“Oyasuminasaiii!!” Chaeyoung suddenly got up and crawling down to her bed while the three others were laughing at her shyness. Chaeyoung put her head on the pillow. Close her eyes and smiling. Before she fell asleep, she prayed. God, thank you for sending these angels to me.

Chaeyoung opened her eyes then quietly got out from the bed. She looked at the clock. It’s still 4.30 AM in the morning. After drinking a cup of water, she tried to go back to sleep. Unfortunately, she wasn’t feeling sleepy anymore. She got out of bed again and looking for her phone. It’s dead. She took the charger, plugged it on then the phone. While waiting for the phone to turn on, she walked towards the window. She stared at the bright night sky. She smiled. The vibration from her phone was too strong that produces a noise that made her startled. She hurriedly walked towards the desk where she charges her phone but clumsily she stepped on the snacks wraps that were laying on the carpet. The sound made by the wraps made Chaeyoung afraid she would wake her friends. She stared at their faces and luckily they still in deep sleep.

The vibrate mode changed into a mute mode to avoid any noise. Chaeyoung sat on the chair while looking at the incoming messages. She read it one by one while replying to some of it. In less than 10 minutes she finished reading and texting. She put her phone down. Spin the chair and staring at her friends who were sleeping beautifully. She looked at the clock again. It’s so early but she couldn’t back to sleep. She was thinking about what should she do to kill this time waiting for morning to come. The snacks and cups on the carpet successfully catch her attention. With no sounds, she cleaned it up. It was the hardest cleanup experience that she was ever done. Whenever she made a noise she quickly checked on her friends. Good for her that her friends seemed to not get bothered by that sounds.

Finished cleaning the stuff, now she laid down on the carpet. She sat up then opened the curtain so that she could stare at the sky. It such a pity that she still couldn't see the moon. She got up then opened the door to the balcony. She leaned on the fence and staring at the moon. In this silent and chill night, she enjoyed the dawn scenery she never saw before. Since it got chiller, she decided to went back to the room after standing around 10 minutes on the balcony. She checked on her phone but it still not fully charged. Actually it just only 15% charged. Once again, she watched her friends. They were sleeping peacefully. It seemed like they will wake up on midday.

Chaeyoung got up, walking around the room then went back to the chair. She screened Jennie’s desk and the pink sticky notes catch her attention. She took it. With minimum light on the room, she started to draw a rose. After she finished, she wonders what should she write on that note. She turned her body around and for a countless time staring at her friends. She smiled as she knew what should she wrote on the note. She took that note and stick it on the mirror. Once again she smiled.

Chaeyoung looked around the room to found her clothes and bag. She changed the pajamas to her clothes, wash and brush her teeth then combed her hair. She took off the charger and put her phone in her jeans’ pocket. She stood off near the bed and said her gratitude and goodbye in a soft voice to Jisoo, Jennie and Lisa who still in the dreamland. Quietly she opened the door and sneak out of the room.

The alarm of Jisoo’s phone was ringing. With half-closed eyes, Jisoo was looking for her phone. Rather than her vision, she relied more on her hearing. She found her phone beside her pillow. She looked at the clock. It’s already 8 AM in the morning. Jennie’s Mom voice was heard from downstairs. She called the girls to have breakfast. Jisoo looked at Jennie who still in deep sleep so she decided to answer the call. She told Jennie’s Mom she will wake the girls up. She shook Jennie’s body first. Jennie answered while saying she was awake. She then climbed down to Lisa and Chaeyoung’s bed. But Chaeyoung wasn’t there. Maybe she woke up earlier and helped Jennie’s Mom prepare for breakfast.

Successfully woke her friends up, Jisoo walked towards the mirror to fixed her looks. The pink sticky note caught her attention. She pulled it off and read it.

“Guys, Chaeyoung already left. And... she left this on the mirror,” Jisoo showed the note to Jennie and Lisa who still struggle opening their eyes.

Girls thanks for the amazing night. I am so touched. It feels like all my burden was lifted from my shoulders. You guys are truly angels without wings sent by God to me. Once again thank you for being my amazing friends. You are the best!! XOXO – Chaeng

***

The middle-aged man got out of his car. He walked a bit to the front, moved his head to the left and right while tiptoeing tried to get the better sight to the end of the road. He sighed and walked back to his car. His wife who sat beside him asked about what he saw. He said there might be an accident causing the traffic. Although it’s 3 AM, it will take quite some time because it was a big truck. The man the radio. Lean his head on the car seat fold his arms and closed his eyes. His wife was busy playing with her phone while the son who sat on the back eat it the corn chips.

“Son, do you still in contact with your tutor?” asked the woman.

“Yes. But I am not contacting her frequently. Why?” the son asked her back while munching on his corn chips.

“It’s unusual. I sent her messages since yesterday but she hasn’t replied to me. Well, it even wasn’t delivered to her. Perhaps, she changed her number? It’s been almost two days already,” the woman was looking at her phone and checking on her messenger. She looked worried while looking at the undelivered messages.

The husband seems to get interested in his family’s conversation so he opened his eyes and asked about the tutor. The wife told him about her worries and it made the husband get more interested.

“Does she really a good tutor? You seem to like her very much. Where does she go? SKY?” the husband got curious about the tutor.

“She is just high-schooler. One year above Namjoon. But, she is really great. I like her. So do your son,” the woman was turning her head to the back seat and it made her son felt embarrassed.

“High schooler? That’s interesting. Tell me more about her. Where did you scout her?” the man completely interested with the tutor. As far as he knew, his son didn’t get along well with his previous tutor.

It was an accident, said the wife. She didn’t expect it at all. At first, she just wanted to help her. But, it turned out she did a good job. The wife told the story of how she scouted her. She said she met her in the coffee shop that she frequently visited. She was impressed by her looks. She looks so kind, polite and innocent. What made her unique in the wife’s eyes was, she looked like someone who was born in a rich family. Yet, she worked in the coffee shop. She was clumsy and it showed that she had no experience working part-time. But, she works really hard. Whenever the wife came to the coffee shop, her skills were improving.

Out of curiosity, the wife did some digging into her background. Digging someone’s general information was a piece of cake for her. She was a lawyer and it was a basic thing. In a short time, she found out that she lied about her age and name. The coffee shop didn’t hire a minor so she used her friend’s identity instead. That’s means, she was short of money. Her guess was proven to be true. She was born into a rich family. Her father worked in a famous multinational company but later on, he resigned and established his own business. Unfortunately, it didn’t go well. It went bankrupt so he closed his business. He sold all his assets and now running his family business.

“Then, how did you know she has the capability to become Namjoon’s tutor? You won’t hire her out of pity right?” the question that was on the son’s brain was asked by his father. He was amazed at how he and his father shared the same thought.

The woman continued her story. One day when she was walking around her high school while waiting for her client, she met her hanging out with her friends in tteokpokki house. While her friend was playing with her phone, she was making a note. The situation was not conducive but she was able to study. Her concentration was amazing. The woman then purposely sat near her table and tried to eavesdropping her conversation. One incident happened that made the woman fallen for her. She scolded her friends for being inconsiderate with her other friend. But then she apologizes to her friends and clearing out the misunderstanding. The woman was surprised because it was unexpected to her. The woman thought she was kind and shy, but she actually strong and righteous. She likes the way she stood up for her friends without making the situation awkward with another friend. After the girl left, the woman asked a student who sat beside her about the girl. Through that student, she found out that the girl was popular for being the perfect girl at school. Pretty, rich, smart, kind, she had that perfect girl packaged.

“Then, I give it a try to offers her the job. My instinct told me that she will become a good tutor for Namjoon. Thanks to it I achieved a lot of things. I got Namjoon a good tutor and I could make her study while earning money. Thanks to her too I don’t have to find another tutor for our picky son. Unfortunately, before the summer break, she told me she wanted to resign,” the woman looked so proud for her discovery but then felt sad because she was about to lose it.

“Why?” the man looked straight to his wife.

“She said she wants to focus on her study. She also said Namjoon is smart enough to study by himself,” the wife calmed her husband down.

“Thank God. I thought Namjoon did something bad to her,” the man truly looked relieved.

“I told you before Namjoon really likes her that made him beg me to make her stay,” the woman was smirking.

“MOM! Don’t spread a rumor. I don’t…” the sound of protest was heard from the back seat.

“She is interesting. Let’s invite her for dinner. I want to meet her,” this time the man joined her wife to tease their son.

“Why you want to meet her?” the son was against it.

“To find daughter in law may be…,” the man was satisfied as his sound fall to his trap.

“DAD!!!” cried the son.

“Oh, Dad, it’s finally moving!” the woman changed the topic while still laughing. They got to move as the truck finally evacuated.

The boy who was sulky and full because he just finished one pack of corn chips now became sleepy. He knew he was too selfish if he was sleeping. His Dad just arrived from a long flight and now he was driving the car. His Mom insisted to drive but this man was so stubborn. The sleepiness won over him. He couldn’t open his eyes and slowly fall asleep.

The human body was amazing. Even when he was deep in sleep, he could felt the car was slowly reduced its speed. He opened his eyes slowly and looking outside the car window. He saw an unfamiliar view which means he hasn’t arrived at home yet. He closed his eyes again but he wasn’t totally sleeping. He could hear his parents’ conversation.

“It got severe these days. Life must be hard for him. Luckily he could be saved,”

The boy got up because he was curious. He looked outside the window again. They were on the bridge and he saw a crowd on the pedestrian path.

“What’s going on?” he asked.

“Someone tried to commit suicide. Luckily he could be saved. Don’t worry. Just go back to sleep,” the woman answered but she didn’t want to talk about it further. She told his husband to keep going since its already safe. There were already enough people who helped him.

On his way home, he could hear that his parents were talking about their concern regarding the harsh environment of young people these days. Even for an adult, this environment was too much to handle. The pressure to get into top universities was too high. The struggle to find jobs was too hard. People's judgment was too harsh. Parents who were providing a comforting and encouraging environment for their children now became extinct. Their expectation and their hope for their children were too heavy to handle. Some of those kids couldn’t handle it and decide to end their suffering in the wrong way.

As he listened to his parents’ conversation, he unconsciously fell asleep again. He woke when he arrived home. The first thing he did when he got out of the car was stretching his body. He felt fatigued for sitting in the car for a long time. After washed up and changed their clothes, the family was heading to their own bedroom to have some rest. The boy took his phone and turn off the alarm so that it won’t bother his sleep. It’s already 4.45 AM in the morning.

Lying on the bed was so relaxing. He closed his eyes but he couldn’t fall asleep right away. He took his phone and checked on some things on SNS. Slowly his eyes began to get tired. He turned the screen off and put it beside his pillow. Drrrtt… his phone was vibrating as soon as he put it down. He chuckled and took it again to change it to mute mode. He checked on it, it’s from Chaeng. He remembered that his mom was talking about undelivered messages before so he decided to check her messages before going back to sleep.

“Hi. U must be sleeping rite now, rite? Well, I just want to say thank u for being such a good friend. I read ur mom messages and I am so happy. I found out I have many people who love and care about me. They helped me a lot during those tough and cruel days. But I think I can’t think straight right now. So, I’ve decided I’ll leave. Wish everything will get better from now on. Once again, thank u. Sorry for bothering ur sleep,”

Damn it! What was she thinking right now? The boy was cursing. He was fully awake after he read the messages. He got up, took his training clothes, put it on then looking for his wallet. He hurriedly left his home but still tried to not making noise. He didn’t want his parents to wake up. He ran towards the main-street and wait for the taxi.

“What r u doin at this hour?” he texted back while anxiously waiting for the reply. He bit his lips and stomping his feet.

“Oh, u r awake! Me? hmm… waiting for sunrise,”

“Where?”

“Now? Well now, I am on the bridge. Idk what the name of this bridge is but it is Han River’s bridge,”

“!!” he was swearing when he read the reply. His hands were trembling and his heart was pounding. He forced his brain to think about what should he asked her. He looked at his surrounding while he was thinking and luckily at that time he saw a taxi. He got into the taxi and told the driver to go to Han River which had the best view of sunrise. The taxi driver asked him again for the specific location but the boy also had no idea. He told the driver to drive to Han River first while he found out the location.

“Is there any good place? Share the location so I can go there someday” he texted her again tried to found out her location. While he was waiting for the reply, he was also browsing on the internet about a good place to see sunrise near the Han River. One message was coming and he quickly touched it. She sent the location. He clicked on the link and told the driver about the location.

“I think I don’t have enough time left” one message was coming again after she shared the location.

“!” he cursed again and it made the driver quite surprised. He replied to her and asked whether she was still in there. He waited but the status of his message wasn’t changed to read. Waiting seems to become longer in this situation. He had no patience so he called her.

“The number you are calling is not answering…” he hung up the call and tried to call again. Still the same woman’s voice that he heard. He became more and more anxious. He told the driver to speed up so that they could arrive early.

“Please answer, please answer….,” those words were the only words that coming out from the boy's mouth during his way to the destination. Finally, he arrived at the location. But, he saw no one was there. The driver asked him whether they reached their destination or it wasn’t here. He told the driver to kept going while he was busy looking out the taxi window.

“If you are looking for a good place to see the sunrise, I know a place near here. Well, you can see it from this bridge but I don’t think it is good enough. Sometimes I take some tourists from that place,”

“Sure, can you take me to that place? But, before that, I want to check something. Please wait,” the boy got out of the car then quickly went to check the river. He grabbed onto the hand railing and saw the river beneath. He was walking from the middle of the bridge to the end. It seems like the thing he worried about wasn’t found that made him sighing in relieved yet still anxious. He then got into the taxi and asked the driver to take him to that place.

He still needed to take a long walk before reaching that place. The driver pulled over the car as near as possible to the destination. He paid the driver without taking his change and quickly running towards the place that was told by the driver. The call wasn’t working. It was still repeating the same line that said the number was unreachable. The yellow light slowly appeared over the horizon. The thought was popped up as he saw the light. He kept running and running while trying to guess the hot spot to saw the sunrise. From afar, he saw some people were crowding. He might arrive in the right place. He carefully screening the people's faces one by one but couldn’t find someone he was looking for.

Hopeless. That was the state he was in now. It’s also frustrating. He wanted to yell but he couldn’t do it here. He decided to walk further to a quieter place so that he could let out his frustration. He walked and walked. As he walked he saw some silhouette of the person he was looking for. Although the energy was all drained, he kept forcing his feet to run.

“Oh, Namjoon?! It’s unexpected!! Are you doing exercise? But, it is kind of unordinary. It is too early and… too far,” the girl was welcoming him brightly and cheerfully.

The boy stopped running once he ensured his eyes that the girl was the one he was looking for. He was standing still in his place but it didn’t last long. He was too weak to stand. The girl was hurriedly come closer as she saw him fall on his knees down to the ground.

“Are you alright?” asked the girl while holding his body afraid he would pass out. The boy didn’t answer. He closed his eyes and mumbling some words.

“For ’s sake. Seriously Park Chaeyoung what are you ing doing here?” that was the question he muttered when he opened his eyes and got his normal breathing pace.

“HEY! WATCH YOUR LANGUAGE!” the girl was offended by his swearing.

“Who cares about the ing language?!! You… ha…,” the boy was suddenly broke down in tears. The girl who saw him was panic. She didn’t know what was going with him. She sat down beside him then patted his shoulder to calm him down.

“Why are you crying?” she finally dared to ask him after he calmed down a bit.

“I thought you… you want to…d…,” the boy was stuttering, couldn’t finish his word.

“Die? What? Why do you think I want to die?!” hearing the reason made her surprised.

“WHY THE HELL YOU SENT ME A MESSAGE AT THE DAWN AND OUT OF NOWHERE TOLD ME YOU ARE BEING GRATEFUL THEN SAID YOU WANT TO LEAVE?? WHO WILL THINK STRAIGHT WHEN YOU SAID YOU ARE ON THE BRIDGE AT THIS ING HOUR???? AND WHY YOU SUDDENLY COULDN’T GET REACHED AFTER YOU SAID…. You… don’t have in enough time?” the boy was yelled and cried his lungs out. He was talking so fast that even made it sounded like a rap song.

The girl was stunned and lost her words when she heard it. She thought all her tears were dried because she was crying out loud yesterday but she might be wrong. Her eyes now filled with tears. She was touched but at the same time, she found it funny. She just created a huge misunderstanding. Although she wanted to laugh she tried her best to hold it. It’s not polite of her knowing the boy came all the way here and desperately looking for her. He was even crying out loud like a baby boy.

After wiped the tears on her eyes, she calmly explained everything. She said she was awake at the dawn and couldn’t sleep. She turned her phone on and saw lots of messages she hadn’t replied to. Although it’s still dawn, she replied to it because people might read it when they were awake. She indeed had a bad day that’s why she suddenly feeling grateful to have someone who cares about her. There were lots of bad things so she decided to take a break and enjoy her holiday in Jeju. That’s why she said she will leave. And it’s a trend to saw a sunrise to wishing for a good thing and started a new life so she wanted to try it. Unexpectedly, the boy replied to her messages because she didn’t expect anyone to reply at that hour. About the limited time, it’s because her phone battery was run out. She was about to type it but the phone already turned off.

“I am sorry for creating such a huge misunderstanding and also to make you come all the way here. But, I am so touched and grateful that you genuinely care about me. Thank you,” she smiled.

They both fall into a long silence as they watch the sunrise. It’s so beautiful that it made them lost words.

“I am sorry for having that bad thought about you. To tell you the truth, I just heard it from mom. About your life. I know it must be hard for you to going through all the hardships. I… today… on my way home there was an accident that killed two people. Not long after, I saw someone who was about to jump from the bridge. I just realized that we could lose someone so suddenly so I …. It’s just a foolish of me who have that kind of thought. I sincerely apologize,”

“It must be traumatic for you to witness it. You must be going through a lot. Don’t worry I understand why you have that thought. If I were you, I might think the same way. Fyi, I never had a thought to kill myself. NOT EVEN ONCE. I am well aware that I have people who love me and I know how sad they are if I do that. I don’t want to make them live a miserable life. I might not as strong as I wanted to be, but, since I have people like you, I will always try my best to get stronger. That’s why you don’t have to worry about me anymore, okay? Promise?” the girl reached out her small pinkie. The boy was chuckled and said it was so childish. He was hesitating for a bit but after he looked at the girl’s eyes he smiled and intertwining his pinkie to hers.

“Ah, right. Are you busy tonight?” asked the boy.

“Why?” rather than answering his question, the girl asked him back.

“My Dad invites you for dinner,” the boy suddenly remembered his Dad’s plan.

“Your Dad? Oh My God, why I suddenly become so nervous? Your Dad is not trying to scout me as one of his daughters in law candidates, right?” the girl expression seemed like she smelled something fishy. The boy was gulping when he heard it. Why did this girl say the same thing as his Dad?

“Hahaha! Just kidding. Well, I’d love to. Thanks for the invitation, but I can’t come. I have to fly to Jeju this evening. Maybe some other days. I know it’s so rare for your Dad to come home since he currently living overseas. But, I will spend the rest of my holiday in Jeju. So maybe, until the next semester when your Dad comes for winter break,” the girl felt bad cause she couldn’t attend the invitation.

“Never mind. I’ll tell him. Anyway, the sun is up. So, I think it’s time for me to go home. I should arrive at home before my parents wake up,” the boy stood up, dust off his pants and get ready to leave.

“Wait, before you go, don’t you think you owe me something?” the girl followed his step. She stood up and dust her pants off.

“What?” the boy got no idea about his debt.

“Apology,” said the girl while showing a mysterious smile.

“Why?” the boy’s eyes got so large because he was so confused.

“First, you were cursing. Second, you didn’t use the honorific. Third, you call me with my name. I am cool with it BUT, we are living in Korea now. You should address me as noona or teacher,” the girl counting on his mistake with her finger while talking with such a cheerful voice.

The boy was silent. He was trembling in fear as he could see the anger between that beautiful smile.

“Sorry,” he apologized while kept his head down.

“What? Huh, do you expect me to forgive that insincere apology?” hearing that short apology made the girl disappointed.

“So, what do you want me to do? Getting on my knees?” he didn’t want to look afraid so he tried to look tough.

“Aegyo,” said the girl when smiling.

“WHAT??” hearing that one word made the boy screamed in shock.

“Noona~~~ Junie is very very very sorry. Junie will promise won’t do that anymore. So, could noona please forgive me? Please? Please? Ehmm? Do it like that,” the girl demonstrated how the boy supposed to do made her forgive him.

“I’d better getting on my knees than do something like that,” he could foresee the nightmare when he saw her acting cute like that. Imagine himself acted like that and he will be haunted by that memory.

“Sorry, but I don’t accept any form of apology besides that. Well, if you don’t want to do that it’s up to you. I am leaving. Bye,” the girl was getting really angry. She left the boy and purposely made her steps faster and wider so that the boy won’t have time to catch her.

“Ah seriously,” looking at the girl’s act made the boy grumbling. He still had a war within himself.

When the girl was almost 10 meters away, she stopped and turned around.

“You won’t do it? Okay, your last chance is up. Goodbye,” she gave his last chance but snatch it away in a second.

“NOONA!!” the boy was calling her. He finally made up his mind.

The girl was holding her laugh as she heard the boy called her. She bit her lips, pouting, smiling and did all kinds of facial massages before turned her body around to saw the boy’s apology act.

***

Jungkook stared at the form on his desk. He was spinning the pen he held, hesitating whether he should fill the form or not. It seems like he couldn’t reach the decision. He threw the pen and moved his hand to his head. It took almost half an hour for him to finally decide what he was gonna do. He got up from the chair took the form and went downstairs, looking for his Mom.

“Mom, are you busy? I have something to discuss,” he asked his Mom who was sitting in the living room while working on the laptop.

“Is that really important? I’d love it if you wait a bit longer so that we can discuss it with Dad too,” her Mom looked at her son dearly but then returned to her laptop again.

“Oh, yeah, that’s even better. Actually, I have to discuss it with both of you. Well, so, please continue your work,” Jungkook was glad when he heard the news. He urgently needed his father’s opinion.

Dad was coming right before dinner time. He immediately washed up and get ready for dinner. It felt so long since the last time he had dinner together with his small yet warm family. When he was on his way home, his wife was calling and told him to hurry because Jungkook had something important to tell them. He was getting so excited and promised her he will be there as soon as possible.

“So, what’s the thing you want to discuss with us?” Dad opened their family discussion after helped Mom washing the dishes. Now they were sitting in the living room enjoying some fruits. Jungkook then went back to his room and returned with the form he was staring all day long. He gave it to his parents.

“Are you asking for our permission?” Mom stabbed the pear with a fork and asking a question before she ate it.

Jungkook answered with a shy nod.

“Of course you are allowed too. Why do you need our opinion?” this time was Dad’s turn to speak.

“If I manage to pass the test I will join the Seoul City Team. I should do the practice and get quarantined for at least a month. The coach said it will be held during our winter break. The competition will take place on the school day and it will behold for almost 3 months. This means I have to be absent from school. You know that my academic performance wasn’t that good even if I attend school every day. I am afraid it will get poorer if I manage to join the team,” he was explaining with anxious eyes afraid his parents will show concern.

“Then why? Don’t worry about that son, just do what you want. If you can’t attend the class, then you should study by yourself,” unlike what he predicted, his Mom was giving such a simple answer.

“Yeah, you are aware of the consequences then why are you still hesitant? If you can’t do well on both things, then choose one. Choose the thing you are confident that you can give the best. I am aware that your academic performance wasn’t brilliant but, as long as you didn’t become the last place and manage to pass all the tests, I’m cool with it,” same as his Mom, his Dad also didn’t show any objection.

“Hurry, give me the pen, I’ll sign it even before you fill in the form. Whether or not you want to join it’s up to you. More importantly, you already got our permission,” Dad reached out his hand asking for a pen that Jungkook held. Jungkook was smiling shyly. He took the form and a pen. Say thank you to his parents and get ready to quarantine himself in his room.

“Is that all?” asked her Mom when he got up from his seat.

“Yes,” Jungkook got so confused.

“You sure you don’t have anything else to discuss?” Mom ensured him.

“Yeah. That’s all. Why? Is there anything else?” Jungkook who had no idea about his Mom question asked her back.

“Hmm… about your girlfriend, maybe or someone you like,” the smirk on his Dad’s face was so suspicious so did his Mom. Jungkook sat down again. He observed his parents’ expression. Their eyes were sparkling and they looked so excited.

“No, I don’t have anything to discuss regarding that matter,” Jungkook smiled but not his parents. They looked disappointed.

“Mom said you weren’t out of your room for a week. Your behavior was also really strange as if you just broke up with your girlfriend. It’s okay son, we are open-minded parents. You are allowed to date. Right, mom?” Dad didn’t want Jungkook to be afraid so he emphasized that they didn’t mind if their son wants to date.

“Thank you for your consideration. But, I don’t have anything like that. Now, Mom, Dad, thanks for listening to my concern and give permission to joining the Seoul Team. Good night!” Jungkook stood up, gave a bow and quickly back to his room leaving his parents in disappointment.

Jungkook closed the door, put the form on his desk and throw his body on the bed. He was chuckled as he thought about his Mom’s wild idea. Broke up with a girlfriend? How could she even think about it? He didn’t even have a girlfriend how could he break up? Girl friend, the friend who was a girl. He did have it. He closed his eyes tried so hard to not thinking about what he was thinking right now. Now he remembered what happened a week ago and it made his mood got worse.

The group chat was getting loud that snatch Jungkook’s attention. He opened the chat room. His friends were discussing going to the water park. Their summer holiday was almost over. It’s a good idea to spend the rest of it going on vacation or spent it outdoor but he wasn’t in a good mood. Maybe he was being too comfortable staying indoor because he almost not stepping his feet outside his home for a whole week.

“I’ll pass,” he replied to the group chat when they were checking attendance.

***

“BBUUKK!!” a pillow was thrown to Jungkook’s face but he didn’t even move. Once again a pillow was landing right on his face. Finally, after the fifth try, he gave attention to the pillow and opened his eyes.

“It must be hard being your Mom. WAKE UP YOU PUNK!!” Mingyu grabbed Jungkook’s arm and pulled him so that he would wake up. Jungkook sat up but still closing his eyes. Mingyu who saw him got so frustrated. He had no other choice. He had to spray the water to wake him up.

“Don’t try to spray my face with water. I am awake,” it seems like Jungkook was able to read Mingyu’s mind so he warned Mingyu although he sounded like he was doing asleep talking.

Mingyu took a deep sigh and decided to respect his wish. While waiting for Jungkook to fully awake, Mingyu was roaming around the room. He opened Jungkook’s closet and searching for his swimwear. He also took a piece of underwear and a shirt in case he needed it. Now he only needed to pack it to the bag. Mingyu’s eyes were wandering around Jungkook’s desk. He sat down on the chair, put the clothes on the desk and grabbed the bag that Jungkook put beneath the desk. He emptied the bag and put the clothes on it. Now, the only thing left was waiting for Jungkook to open his eyes.

“What are you doing the past week? Just now your Mom asked me about your girlfriend. Are you keeping a secret from me? Is there anything I should know?” Mingyu tried to accelerate Jungkook’s ritual to collecting all his soul by initiating a conversation.

“Nothing. Don’t mind her,” Jungkook replied and still stayed in the same position.

The phone vibration on the thigh made Mingyu uncomfortable. He took his phone, reading the messages and started to lose his patience. Their friends were already left their home to meet up at the meeting point. Mingyu put his phone on the desk, got so ready to dragged Jungkook out from his bed. But, when he was about to get up, the black covered book with a rose drawing was snatching his attention. He took the book, opened it and read it. He was so into the book that he didn’t realize Jungkook already got out of the bed.

“Why are you here?” Jungkook suddenly stood up beside Mingyu. Mingyu who was so focused on reading the book got really surprised. He instinctively closed the book and put it back on the desk.

“Dragged your out of the home to the water park,” Mingyu answered while a bit fluttered.

“I said I am not coming,” Jungkook poured the water from the pitcher to the cup and drank it.

“Dude, come on! It’s not a summer holiday if you don’t go to water-park! Come on it’s no fun without you! I already packed your bag so the only thing you need to do is dressed up. Hurry! The kids are waiting,” Mingyu lead Jungkook to the bathroom by pushing his shoulder. While Jungkook was washing his face and brush his teeth, Mingyu was waiting in the room. He once again took the book and read it.

“You seem interested in the book,” unexpectedly Jungkook was finished sooner than Mingyu prediction.

“Oh, that’s I just…,” Mingyu tried to explain but he seemed to have trouble to find the right words.

“You can have it if you like it. Someone gave it to me as a gift. The notebook is very well written,” said Jungkook while drying his hair with a towel.

“Why are you giving me this book?” Mingyu was wondering.

“I passed the test so I don’t need it anymore. Like I said before it’s so well written it will help you to study. I don’t like to keep a thing I don’t really need so… since you seem to like it, you can have it. I am gonna throw it away anyway,”

Mingyu was so confused at his answer but he thought it will be best if he did like what he told. He put the book on his bag and said thank you to Jungkook.

Playing in the water in the summer indeed the best thing to do. Although it was so crowded, that group of friends was enjoying their time to the fullest. They did all the fun things to do when they were on the water park, from enjoying the extreme slides, holding breath competition until throwing one of them to water. Their main target for today was Jungkook. Jungkook who originally refused to join was the one who enjoyed it the most. That’s why he was targetted by his friends.

The next best thing to do was fulfilling an empty stomach with delicious food after swimming all day long. They were heading to Itaewon to find a popular restaurant. Without hesitation, they were all choosing barbeque restaurant. Right after they felt their stomach was full, they continued to hang around that popular district. Spent two hours strolling around, they decided to take a break in the café while having a chit chat.

“I heard you didn’t come out of your room for the entire week. So, tell me what you’ve got from your investigation Detective Jeon?” Dokyeom, as usual, used a joke when starting a conversation. He thought Jungkook was busy solving the case to found out about the stalker during his isolation for a week.

“I’m also curious. Have you found the culprit?” Jaehyun stopped sipping his Ice Americano to focus on Jungkook’s answer.

“Unfortunately, I face the dead end. I don’t have enough proof. This case already reached its statute of limitation so I decided to not investigate it further. In conclusion, this case is closed,” Jungkook played along with Dokyeom’s joke by using the typical detective’s voice.

“What? Did it end like that? So disappointed,” Taehyung couldn’t hide his disappointment. He was very excited about this mystery-solving case since the beginning although he can’t do much for help.

Jungkook apologized for ruining the show but he said he had no time to worry over trivial things. He apologized because he should follow his friends’ advice back then. Now he felt like an idiot who put his attention over something unimportant. It’s better to focus on the upcoming goal, join the Seoul City Team for High School National Tournament.

“KIM MINGYU!!” the girl who just came into the cafe stole the boys’ attention as she called for Mingyu. Mingyu waved his hand to that girl. Although the girl only called Mingyu’s name, all the boys have turned their heads towards the girl. Right after they saw her, they back to their activity. Mingyu excused himself to greet his friend.

The girl who called him was his middle school friend. They were on the same exam preparation study group in 9th grade so they were kind of close. The girl was together with her friend. She introduced her friend to Mingyu briefly.

“The rumor is true. He indeed resembles him,” the other girl was talking softly to Mingyu’s friend.

“I told you, right?” both of the girls were laughing.

“I heard it a lot. I resemble that that idol group’s member right? The one who has a similar name and even a similar face,” Mingyu proudly showed off his popularity of being a doppelganger.

Both of the girls were surprised. They didn’t know Mingyu knew about this rumor.

“Wait, your name is Yerin, right? By any chance do you know Park Chaeyoung?” Mingyu suddenly remembered Chaeyoung because his friend’s friend went to the same school.

“Of course I know! I’m close with her,” said the girl whose name was Yerin.

“Woah Kim Mingyu, you are never changed, always popular among girls. Your consistency is one of a kind,” Mingyu’s friend was clapping as the sign of her appreciation. Mingyu was laughing watching his friend’s reaction.

“So, it was you. I know I resembled Kim Mingyu from Seventeen from her. She said Yerin was the one who told her. So, it was you. Woah, I am so honored. Chaeyoung said you are a big fan of Seventeen. That’s why being acknowledge as a doppelganger from a fan is something to be proud of,” Mingyu’s word made his friend shook her head in awe. This guy really had a smooth-talking skill.

“Hahaha… Anyway, how do you know her?” Yerin was shy after she heard Mingyu’s compliment.

“I know her through her brother. I am her brother’s friend. I helped him in soccer. We met accidentally and since we are the same age, we become friends,” Mingyu explained his meeting with Chaeyoung after edited out some unnecessary detail. Of course, he won’t mention the true story of how they met. Yerin was nodded. Mingyu continued his chit chat shortly then excused himself to go back to his soccer team table after took a picture with Yerin. He now acted as the real idol.

The topic of the conversation seems so interesting on that table. Mingyu who just got back didn’t have any idea about this hot topic. He sat down, took his ice latte and got questioned right away. Taehyung asked him about his participation in the Seoul Team audition. Mingyu said he definitely will participate. It was for the experience. He didn’t aim high, but he wanted to know and experience it. As he finished his answer, everyone's eyes moved towards Jaehyun who just put a piece of vanilla waffle on his mouth. Jaehyun has looked around with an innocent face and asking why they all pointed at him with his expression.

“Why, what’s going on? Somebody, please tell me about what I missed,” Mingyu didn’t understand the situation. He could guess it but it more convenient to ask directly.

“You heard him? Come on Jae, you should apply to! Don’t need to aim high, just do it for fun! We are not the only ones who applied for this. There are thousands of high school students who applied to it! Come on!” judging by Dokyeom’s word that seemed to try to persuade Jaehyun, Mingyu could tell everyone applied for this audition but not Jaehyun.

“Dude, what if I get accepted? Who will take care of our team? You guys will be on the Seoul Team and there is nobody left on our soccer team. How will we win the winter tournament? Besides judging from my personality and my skill, there is no way I won’t get selected,” Jaehyun gave his excuse.

“Woah, this man really. I don’t know I have been surrounding by friends who have overflowing confidence. I am so proud. He is really sure he will pass the test. That’s great! Don’t get me wrong, it’s not sarcasm, it’s a compliment,” Taehyung clapped because he was proud of him.

“Are you sure you won’t regret it?” this time was Mingyu’s turn.

“Yeah. In the war, not all soldiers go to the front line to fight. Some of them should stay behind to guard. Well, actually beside my parents, I also had something to do and I can’t leave it out. I made a commitment so… I might feel bad if I don’t fulfill it,” Jaehyun appreciated his friends' support but he already decided he won’t go.

“What commitment? Are you engaged or something?” Dokyeom was curious.

“Of course not! Well, I do some volunteer job. Hehe…,” Jaehyun answered with a giggle to hide his shyness.

“Hey Kim Mingyu, I think the title of most popular guy will be shifted to Jaehyun. He doesn’t lack anything. Face, body, brain, even kind heart! Woah, I am totally proud of this friend, here,” Jungkook praised Jaehyun and teased Mingyu. They were all laughing at his ice break session.

“Anyway, whatever your decision is, I will respect it. So, for you guys who applied, don’t try to embarrass our club for showing poor performance. Cheers!!” Jungkook once again tried to become neutral. He didn’t want to force Jaehyun to participate. He knew it was a hard decision to make. He was sure whatever choice he made, he already knew the consequences.

***

It passed for three hours. Yerin checked her phone again hoping her message to be delivered. Sadly, the status of the message was still the same. She put her phone down and back to her laptop, watching a variety show of her favorite boy group. Usually, she would laugh out loud watching the show but now she didn’t enjoy it as much as usual. Her mind was wandering around and made her couldn’t concentrate. Ever since she met Mingyu two days ago, she kept thinking about Chaeyoung and their fight. It’s almost two weeks since their fight and they weren’t talking to each other.

The summer holiday was almost over. If their fight still continued, then it will be uncomfortable for all of them since they were chair-mates. It’s no use. Even watching variety shows couldn’t distract Yerin’s mind. She pauses the video then took her phone and dialing Chaeyoung’s number. The voice of a woman telling about the number she dialed wasn’t reachable was heard. She put her phone away from her ear and hung up. She stared at the phone log hesitate whether she should try to call her again or not. In the end, she decided to not call her again. She threw her phone to her bed then continued watching the show that she paused.

The clock hit 3 AM in the morning. Yerin was still laughing in front of her laptop watching another variety show. Her eyes were tired and she decided to end her hobby after this episode end. Finally, she ends up turned off her laptop at 4 AM. She crawled to her bed, lowering the air conditioner temperature, pulled the blanket and get ready to sleep. Something was poking her back that made her lift her back and reached her hand to take that thing. It’s her phone. She put her phone away and closed her eyes. In less than 1 minute she opened her eyes then took her phone again. She couldn’t sleep. Drinking all three cups of coffee today successfully kills her sleepiness. What even worse was she actually wanted to sleep but her brain can’t. That side effect of coffee was the worst.

No one will post on the dawn, yes she knew. But, her habit made her click on the Instagram application. She scrolled down her timeline, touched the story circle and commenting inside her head. Almost all the pictures on her timeline using a caption said they were sad the holiday was almost over. While busy scrolling down, she saw the post from her middle school’s friend. She scoffed while looking at the girl’s picture. That girl rarely replied to their conversation on group chat but she was so active on Instagram. An idea suddenly came to her mind while she was judging her friend. She might be able to contact Chaeyoung through Instagram! People these days were more active on Instagram than their messengers. Her finger tapped on the search icon but couldn’t remember Chaeyoung’s username. Of course, she couldn’t remember because Chaeyoung didn’t have an account, to begin with. She sighed. Her first plan failed. How could she forgot that Chaeyoung didn’t have an Instagram?

Bored with Instagram, Yerin moved to another app. Most of the young people not using Facebook these days but she still used it. She looked at the unread message and replied to it. By accident, she saw her group chat with Sowon and Eunha. It’s so quiet. She scrolled up reading all the old messages. All of a sudden she felt like she was a sinner. She felt disgusted with what she wrote on that chat. She didn’t know whether it because she really misses Chaeyoung, Eunha, and Sowon or she got sentimental because it was night time. One thing for sure, she was disgusted by what she wrote.

Yerin was crying while thinking how Chaeyoung will feel if she read all that hateful, rude and mean comment towards her? How could she write all those nasty words towards her own friend? What did Chaeyoung do to her? Did she ever harm her? Chaeyoung never mad at her no matter how annoying she was. Silently took her side whenever Eunha and Sowon annoyed by her. But, only because of little jealousy towards her perfect life she turned into such a disgusting human. Right at that moment, Yerin really wanted to call Chaeyoung but she realized it 5AM in the morning.

Yerin’s Mom called her to have breakfast. Unlike usual, Yerin opened her bedroom door and walked towards the dining table on the first call. Her mom a bit surprised because she used to eat her breakfast during lunchtime. The reason she would able to eat her breakfast right on time was that she didn’t sleep at all. After finishing her breakfast, she went back to her room. She had been thinking about how to get news about Chaeyoung, how to make up with her and the other two, and all the thought lead her to think about the worst scenario. What if she purposely ignores her call because she hates her? What if she was so disgusted so she didn’t want to make up? What if their friendship will over this summer?

The bad thought made Yerin determined to found anything that could help to get rid of her scenarios. She opened her laptop and began to found any clue. It’s her specialty. Her ability to found information could make her passed the job interview on Dispatch. First, she planned to found her friends. She might spend her holiday with her church friends. She opened Instagram, but she stuck again. She didn’t know where to begin. She realized she didn’t know anything about Chaeyoung. She only knew about her volunteer job, her church, her hobby but she didn’t know any single name of it. Whether the church name, friend’s name, even her band’s name, she didn’t know any of it. It’s not like Chaeyoung never told them, but it just her who didn’t pay attention to any of it!

Before her mind was getting wilder, she decided to get rid of her worst thoughts one by one. In a rush, she got out of her room and cried for her mom. Her mom scolded her for being so loud that it even made her grandma shock. Yerin apologized then asking for her mom’s phone. She put Chaeyoung’s number and called her from her Mom’s phone. She breathed in relief as she heard the same answer. Chaeyoung’s number was unreachable. It means, she didn’t block her number. Maybe she changed her number. She gave back the phone and returned to her room. Her strange behavior made her Mom and Grandma were worried but since she sometimes acts strange, they quickly forgot about it.

People might think she was exaggerating things but that was just her characters. Whenever she felt curious or guilty, she couldn’t hold it. She should solve it as soon as possible or she won’t have a good sleep. Not be able to sleep tight was torture. She should end this quickly before it kills her.

Leaned on the chair, Yerin tried her best to found a way to meet Chaeyoung. An idea came to her mind. She took her phone and opened her conversation with Chaeyoung. Found it! Her address! One year ago, before she found out her neighbor was also Seventeen’s fans, she used to use Chaeyoung’s address to sent the kpop merch she bought. She did that to avoid getting scold by her Mom. She was relieved and happy when she read her address. Now, she finally found a solution. The sleepiness that ran away from her last night finally came back. She decided to take a nap and went to Chaeyoung’s house in the evening. It’s too early too if she goes now.

Yerin pressed the bell on the gate. No one was answering. She pushed the bell again and this time the voice was heard on the intercom asking about who she wanted to meet.

“I am Chaeyoung’s friend. Yerin,” Yerin answered with a bright voice.

“Sorry I think you got the wrong house. No one named Chaeyoung here,” said the woman on the intercom. Yerin was confused. To ensure herself, she asked the woman to confirm the address that she wrote down.

“Yes, it is the right address. Hmm… maybe it is the previous owner. This family just moved here for 3 months,” said the woman.

“Move? Well… then… so… perhaps you know the previous resident’s address?” Yerin was surprised but she should keep calm and not panicking.

“Sorry, but the house owner is not here right now. I just work for two days so I don’t know about that,”

“Oh, it’s okay. Thank you so much,” Yerin stood up in front of the gate looked so blank. Did she move? But why she didn’t tell her? Did anyone know about this? Did she tell her but she didn’t pay any attention? Yerin walked with her head down and empty thought. She was thinking maybe she should wait until school day came to solve this problem. There was no way for her to meet Chaeyoung.

“I am sorry,” Yerin apologized as she almost bumped into a passerby. She looked at that person and a bit shocked because it was Yuju.

“What are you doing here?” without further thought, Yerin asked Yuju.

“What? This is my neighborhood. My home is right there,” Yuju answered coldly while pointed out her home with her chin. Yerin followed the direction of Yuju’s chin. Suddenly she felt embarrassed. Her question just came out of instinctively.

“I think I am the one who supposed to ask that question. What are you doing here?” Yuju who felt a bit offended by Yerin’s question was using the same question to counterattack.

Yerin just smiling and said she was just visiting her friend who lives around here. Yuju looked at the nearest house. It’s Chaeyoung’s old house. She probably came here without knowing Chaeyoung was already moved out. Something was strange. Yuju didn’t want to care about their internal affair but the thought about them using Chaeyoung for their advantage pissed her off.

“Seem like you have a fight with Chaeyoung. Well, good luck. Hope for the fast makeup,” Yuju purposely said it to see Yerin’s reaction. She knew she wasn’t supposed to intervene but she couldn’t help it.

“Don’t make any speculation when you are clearly an outsider. I don’t want people to spread a false rumor,” Yerin felt like she just got slapped on the face. How could she know about this? Did Chaeyoung tell her about it? No, absolutely not. She said “seems like” which means she also not sure about it.

“Right. I am an outsider. But, don’t you think it’s an irony? An outsider like me knows Chaeyoung better than you who claimed as her best friend,” this time, Yuju’s word stabbed Yerin right on the heart. Yerin was speechless. Seeing Yerin’s expression made Yuju got more pissed. What she thought was true. They weren’t on good terms. Chaeyoung must be hiding about her family from them. Those girls also didn’t know and seemed like they didn’t care. Yuju was aware she might get angry if she stays longer so she decided to left.

On the other hand, Yerin who was stabbed by Yuju’s word had no guts to fight back. All of it was true. Since she was defeated and had no pride left, she decided to ask about Chaeyoung’s whereabouts. She had nothing to lose anymore so let just sinking her pride to the bottom of the sea.

“Hey, Yuju! Do you know her new address?” Yerin was gulping her pride down and asked Yuju before she walked too far.

“No, I don’t know. Just ask her yourself,” although she was mad she still answer Yerin’s question.

Yerin decided to catch Yuju’s up so she walked with a faster speed.

“Then, do you know why she moved? Yes, you are right. I don’t know about this and she didn’t tell me about it either. If she didn’t tell me then it means the reason is something bad. I know you know about this, right?” Yerin was walking next to Yuju. Before Yuju answered, she stared at Yerin’s eyes. Those eyes were so pitiful. She must be desperate to know.

“I lie if I say I don’t know. But, since Chaeyoung doesn’t tell you then I won’t tell you. I don’t want to involved in your internal conflict so don’t ask me again about this matter,” Yuju throw her face away and continued to walk back home.

“Yuju, please! Please just tell me! I try to call her but her phone is unreachable since yesterday. I am so desperate. The only thing I could do to reach her is only to go to her home. But, I don’t even know where she lives right now. So please, if you know anything about her…,” Yerin almost cried when she begged Yuju to spill a little bit of information.

Yuju stopped midway. She tightened her fist and breathed heavily. She turned her body and looked at Yerin with eyes full of hatred. She might not really close with Chaeyoung now. But, they were quite close when they were a child. She was still a precious friend of hers. She couldn’t bear being a bystander anymore.

“How funny! If you treat her better before, you are probably not begging me looking so desperate like this. Do you ever think about why she chooses not to tell you about this? She might be doesn’t trust you that much. You know what? She might look like an innocent fool girl who has an exceptionally kind heart. But, why do you think she managed to still stand on the crown for 3 semesters? Because she is smart. Do you think she didn’t know about what you do behind her back? If you think she looks like she has no suspicions about it, then she might be hiding it so well OR you guys are too stupid to sense it. I know I don’t have a right to give two cents about your friendship, but she is still my friend. If you still treat her like even after this incident, you don’t know what I might do to you. She is too good to be your friend. You don’t deserve her,” Yuju really lose her control and now she raised her voice towards Yerin. She saw Yerin was about to cry and it made her felt guilty.

“Anyway, as I said before, I don’t know about it so I can’t answer your question,” seeing how sad Yerin's face was made Yuju lowering down her voice. She knew her words were too harsh. But, thinking about how Chaeyoung was hurt because of her, she had no regret for saying those words.

Yerin was devastated. She was just standing still watching Yuju’s back went further and further. The sun was still up in the sky. Summer always had longer evening hours. Maybe because of it, her day felt longer than usual. She walked towards the bus station. Sat on its bench and staring blankly upfront. She took her phone and opened the group chat. She wanted to read it for the last time before she deleted it. She told herself she should read it to remind her how cruel she was towards Chaeyoung.

The bus was coming so she stopped scrolling to get into the bus. Luckily there was an empty seat so that she could continue to read it. This time she arrived at the chat when they were going to the cinema. Her pupils were suddenly got widen and got goosebumps. She was about to cry but she held it. It will be embarrassing for her to cry on the bus. She held her phone tightly looked outside the bus and sometimes touched her eyes because a drop of tears started to appear. She still looked outside the window while she felt her phone was vibrating.

“Yerin, are you okay?” Sowon’s voice sounded so panicked. She even didn’t say hello.

“Ahem. Hemm.. yeah I am. Why?” Yerin was adjusting before answering to hide her husky voice.

“Yuju told me she saw you and you didn’t look so well. She told me to check you on,”

Yerin was surprised. Yuju? She just met her and received a knife like the fact that made her almost cry on the bus and yet she called Sowon to check on her? Yerin was scoffing. She didn’t understand Yuju’s brain. But, she was glad Sowon called her. She really needed someone to talk to. After ensuring she was fine, she asked Sowon to meet up. Without thinking, Sowon agreed and told her to come to the small coffee shop near her house.

The bell on the door was ringing as Yerin entered the coffee shop. She was greeted by the employee and someone she was so familiar with. Sowon came to her looking so worried. Yerin smiled then lead them to the table. After ordering a cup of the chocolate latte she was ready to spill everything.

“Are you really okay? You look so pale,” Sowon was still being on her mom mode, worrying about her sick friend.

“No. I am not,” Yerin answered honestly.

“Why? Are you hurt somewhere? Should we go to the clinic?” Sowon who didn’t get the situation still thinking Yerin was physically sick.

“What should I do? I committed an unforgivable sin that makes me want to hide myself forever…,” Yerin started to sob.

“What kind of sin? You are not killing anyone right?” Sowon was still panicking because of Yerin's weird behavior.

“Chaeyoungie… Chaeyoungie… she… read our Facebook group chat,” this time Yerin was crying so hard.

Sowon’s hands which on Yerin’s shoulder were slowly fell down. Her eyes were wavering and her body got weakened.

“You’re right. We are a sinner,” she leaned on the chair as she had no energy left.

 

End of Season 1

 

_{Hi Guys! I decided to divide this story into 2 seasons.} 

_{As Season 1 focused more on friendship and family,Season 2 will be full of romance.}

_{Please be patients and thank you so much for reading Excuse Me.}