“Mina…”

 

“I am here like I promised.”

 

Mina was surprised by the familiar voice that suddenly spoke behind her. She can never be wrong. Her heart raced as soon as she saw the person to whom it belonged. She feels like she’s been daydreaming and just hearing and seeing things. But when Momo took a step closer, her heart suddenly beat erratically fast. This is real.

 

Mina heard it right, Momo just said that she’s here like she promised. And it was clearer than the snowflakes that touched her skin. Momo remembered her promise to Mina that she will always be with her on the first snow. Mina couldn’t help her tears from falling. She always wished that Momo would come to see her at this very moment and it was like the heavens had heard her wish that it was granted to her in a blink of an eye and the person she wanted the most just appeared in front of her eyes, with arms wide open.

 

Momo didn’t hesitate to envelop her into a tight hug. She missed Mina so much that she couldn’t stop herself from embracing the girl, feeling the warmth that she yearned for ages. The warmth that she almost forgot but left an enormous hole in her heart that makes her seek for her. Mina was speechless, as she melted onto her beloved’s embrace. With tears still flowing from her eyes, she managed to speak.

“Do you… remember me now?” Mina said in between her sobs as she pulled herself from the hug and gathered herself to see Momo’s features.

“I remember everything Mina, and I hate myself for not remembering you sooner. I hate myself for forgetting the best thing that ever happened to me” Momo said while looking deeply into Mina’s orbs, wiping her tear-stained cheeks with her thumb. Mina delved deeper into the singer’s warmth as she closed her eyes when Momo leaned in for a gentle kiss. It was worth more than a million words. Mina felt all the butterflies like she hadn't felt before. It was mind-blowing, like finding the missing piece of her lifeless soul. Momo kissed her deeper, like there’s no tomorrow. They want more of each other, like making up for the lost times.

 

“You’ll know what happens to Momo if you disobey me!”

 

Suddenly Mina pulled from the kiss, as the voice of her father echoed in her head that reminded her why she’s been distancing herself from Momo all this time. Like a warning to keep her feet firm on the ground and not be swayed with her emotions.

“I can’t do this Momo” she cried as she harshly wiped the tears that fell from her watery eyes.

“I cannot be with you.” she added, trying to pull away from Momo’s grasp.

“Why not? We can just continue where we left off right? Don’t tell me you really consider marrying him?” Momo is confused with the situation.

“I will be marrying Jin-young, Momo.” She confirmed and Momo felt her world crumble in front of her eyes with Mina’s words.

“W-what?!” Momo felt closing up and she felt suffocated.

“I need to do this Momo. I have to.”

“Do you love me?” Momo asked, her eyes piercing through Mina’s soul.

“I love you so much… so much that I would do anything to keep you away from the misery of being with me.”

“You love me yet you can’t be with me? Maybe you don’t love me enough that’s why you’re always pushing me away”

Mina felt her heart was about to explode with this kind of conversation with Momo.

“I’d rather deny my feelings than have to explain them… I pushed you away because you deserved better, you deserve someone who can fight for you, who can protect you… You almost died because I got into your life and I never want it to happen again!”

“Why do you feel responsible for what happened to me? I am responsible for my own life. If I want to die for you, I’d die for you because I love you!” Momo expressed, squeezing Mina’s shoulders trying to make her understand that she’s not the one to be protected, that Mina deserves to be protected too and to be happy. That she’s willing to do everything for her as well.

Mina was struck hard with Momo’s words. It was like telling her that she can unload some of her burdens to her, that she’s not alone in this battle, that she’s here and is willing to risk everything for her and she’s not at fault for anything that happened. With this realization, Mina couldn’t help but to cry in silence. Momo instantly pulled her and enveloped her into a tight hug, caressing her shoulders like telling her that she can lean on her as well.

“This time, I’ll be the one to protect you Mina”

 

++

 

Momo visited the bar she used to work at before to meet her bandmates Chaeyoung and Jeongyeon. She has to tell them about her memories coming back and that she’s sorry for forgetting them and also to ask them a huge favor.

 

“Momo! We’re glad that you remembered us! I thought you would never recall being our vocalist, everyone missed you so bad” Jeongyeon said, hugging her tight. Chaeyoung also joined her to have a group hug. Momo loved the warm welcome, she missed being with them, even though she used to be cold to them when she started to work here, these two had helped her to overcome the lonely days that passed when she was broken inside. And when she met Mina, they were very supportive of their relationship.

“I’m sorry if it took me this long to remember you all” Momo apologetically said, hanging her head low.

“No, don’t be sorry. We know this was harder for you… and Mina” Jeongyeon said and suddenly Chaeyoung butted in.

“Oh right! Have you talked to Mina about your memories coming back?” The drummer instantly remembered that Mina should be the first one to get the news.

“She’s the first one to know that I recalled everything” she revealed with a warm smile, remembering the encounter at their favorite spot.

“That’s good to hear! I bet both of you broke into tears and kissed, or went beyond that” the older teased and Momo felt her face flushed at the statement.

“Alright, we don’t want to pry further, that’s your little secret anyway, but I heard the presscon last time, what are you going to do about that?”

Momo became serious with the topic, remembering the other purpose of her visit.

 

“About that, I have a favor to ask, if you don’t mind”

 

++

 

“Momo’s debut was a success, I couldn’t be more proud of her.” Taecyeon gleefully said at the informal meeting with Jin-young. They are just catching up with business matters in this sophisticated coffee shop.

Jin-young felt uncomfortable with the sudden topic, Taecyeon has gotten a liking to this Hirai Momo and it’s really getting into his nerves that Momo’s getting attention from the netizens. Her name’s been buzzing around the social media, especially her first performance has been going viral.

 

“Well, we can never tell if that would last, she’s just an amateur.” He retorted, trying to kill the mood.

“I’ve been a producer for years, and I can tell if an artist will flop or not. Momo is a hidden gem in this music industry and now, she’s been noticed by the people, and people admired not only her music, but her personality. And I am a thousand percent sure, she’ll make it big” Taecyeon defended her like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

“If you say so, anyway, make sure you attend our wedding, I’m sure Mr. Myoui will be glad to see you there” he reminded.

“Of course I’ll be there, that would be the biggest wedding of the year”

 

++

 

When Jin-young was about to enter his car, his phone suddenly rang. It was a call from an unknown number.

“Hello, who’s this?”

“Jin-young, this is Momo. I have something important to tell you, can you meet me at K Hotel rooftop tomorrow at nine in the evening?”

He was surprised to receive a call from the person he despises a lot. But the word ‘important’ has grabbed his interest and curiosity so he tries to calm himself and respond.

“If that’s so important, sure, I’ll come” he hastily said and the call dropped immediately.

Why all of a sudden, does she remember me? Why am I feeling uneasy?

He feels worried but the curiosity is creeping inside of him that he’s intrigued by what the singer would tell him.

Wait! What if her memories are back and decided to get back to Mina? No, that can’t happen, I won’t let that happen.

 

++

 

Nayeon saw Momo in this big LCD billboard in the heart of Seoul. She saw girls taking pictures of Momo on the huge screen while squealing in admiration. Momo’s got her fans quickly, she wouldn’t be surprised, Momo has charmed her ever since she met the singer and she’s still enchanted with her until now. She still has her heart broken, and she’s keeping it that way. She doesn't mind being hurt by Momo, she feels she deserves to feel it and she’s growing with it day by day. She lost her the moment she’s chosen her ambition over her happiness and now she’s facing the consequences of that.

She heaved a heavy sigh, but with a content poise. She’s happy for Momo, she’s seen her struggle to achieve her dream and now that it’s happening, she couldn’t be more proud of her.

I owe you a lot Momo. You made me realize many things and made me a better person. I wish you all the happiness. You deserve all the best things in the world and I am not the one who can give you that. It was Mina, she’s brought back that smile you used to give me. I hate to admit it but, I want you to take her to the moon for me like you promised me when I was your world.

Be happy, till we meet again, Momo.

 

With the last strand of Momo’s thoughts in her mind, she gathered her determination to keep her feet firmly on the ground and move on without regrets. Momo will always be a big part of her life, and her heart. It will be hard, but she’s trying.

It is getting colder, the December wind breeze gives her chills and she opens her shoulder bag to look for her scarf. Suddenly, someone bumped her shoulder as she was standing in the middle of the walkway full of busy people. Nayeon dropped her bag with the impact and she immediately squats to pick her things. The person who bumped her helped her instantly, picking up the things that scattered around her. Nayeon caught a whiff of a calming scent like the calm Momo always emits when she’s around her. But it has a different vibe. She glanced at the person who’s helping her and her eyes were caught by the girl who’s now also staring at her swollen eyes.

“Sorry, I was on the way, you don’t have to help me” Nayeon immediately apologized for troubling the girl.

“No, it’s okay, I’m the one who’s rushing anyways, it’s my fault.” The girl said, still looking at Nayeon’s features.

“I’m Tzuyu” the girl suddenly introduced herself and extended her arm for a handshake. She has this friendly and warm aura and Nayeon didn’t hesitate to take the girl’s hands. Tzuyu gave her a close lipped smile, her eyes beaming. Nayeon felt her heart almost skip a beat when her skin touched hers. With a little smile she introduced herself as well,

 

“Nayeon”

 

++

 

Momo decided to meet Mina secretly before meeting Jin-young. She asked the younger girl to meet her near the bar where she first met her. It was at the dark alley opposite the bar. They are now walking towards the depths of the walkway to distance themselves from the prying eyes of the passersby.

“I missed you” Momo held her breath as she planted a passionate kiss on Mina's semi parted lips. Mina was surprised by the sudden contact but the next thing she knew she had already melted into Momo’s arms and warmth. She kissed back, missing the girl so badly, wanting every moment with her to last. Momo gently pushed her against the wall, caressing her cheeks while deepening the kiss. Mina’s fingers trailed towards Momo’s neck, pulling the older girl deeper, wanting more of her.

“I miss you more” Mina said under her breath, feeling the warm fog forming in between them.

Momo kissed the bridge of her nose, and then her forehead before embracing her tight.

“Whatever happens, please always remember that I love you and all the decisions I’m making are for us.” Momo whispered against her ears and Mina felt her heart tighten with the remark.

“W-What are you planning to do?” Her words felt weak and the worry was evident in her voice as it cracked.

“I have to keep it a secret for now, Mina, but please trust me on this one” Momo doesn’t want to involve Mina as she knows, Mina will object and will try to do things on her own, she knows her well.

“But—”

Momo pecked her lips to cut her words, Mina trusts Momo but she’s terrified of what might happen.

“Okay, but promise me, you won’t ever disappear from my sight again” Mina looked at her with concern and Momo gave her a weak smile.

“I promise”

 

++

 

Momo is now at the top of the city on this cold evening. She’s waiting anxiously for Jin-young at the hotel rooftop, not knowing if he would really appear. She was tapping her foot on the ground when the door suddenly opened.

She felt suddenly nervous, still seeing this man makes her insides churn. But she is yet to reveal the news.

“I appreciate you coming here, Jin-young.” Momo said in a serious tone.

“Let’s cut to the chase, Momo. What exactly are you going to tell me?” He is impatient, he steps closer to the girl.

 

“I remember everything, and I want you to let go of Mina” she didn’t beat around the bush and told him what she really wanted.

Jin-young smirked. I knew it.

“So your memories are back, huh? Do you think you can just reappear in front of us and just continue where you left off just like that? You are making me laugh, Hirai Momo.”

Momo controlled her rage welling up inside her chest. Balling her fist to contain this long-term resentment she has with the man.

“I am not begging you or asking you, I am telling you that I will take her back to where she belong”

Jin-young couldn’t control his temper and he grabbed the singer’s collar with two balled fists, raising her from the ground.

“I won’t let you ruin everything again Momo! You should have died back then! You’re supposed to die! I-I thought I got rid of you that night when I intentionally ran you over!—“

Momo felt chills, hearing that the one who almost killed her is right in front of her, with all his strength against her neck.

“S-so you’re the one behind all of this huh!?” Momo grabbed Jin-young’s arms, trying to resist from his grasp but he is stronger and he pushed her further against the edge of the rooftop making her lean onto the metal rails.

“Do you know how hard it was for me to make it this far? Do you know how much I sacrificed for this marriage to happen? Your existence ruined my plans!”

“M-Mina trusted you! She always believed she had a brother she could count on! But you— you make her miserable! Did you know she always blamed herself for what happened! You are heartless! I will never let you have her! Over my dead body!” Momo choked on her words as Jin-young was now strangling her with his palms pressed hard around her neck.

“SHUT UP! It’s all because of you!” Jin-young has lost it. He pushed Momo dangerously at the edge, Momo couldn’t get a hold of the ground and she felt the need to cling on his arms for her dear life. Jin-young realizes that Momo is clinging onto his arms to spare her from falling, then an idea pops up inside his tiny brain.

“If I release my hands, you’ll be dead, and people will think you intentionally jumped off the rooftop to commit suicide.” He smirked insanely, his mind occupied with vile thoughts.

Momo felt shivers, Jin-young’s eyes were dead serious and showing the eyes of a cold blooded murderer, he did it once and he’s not hesitant to do it again. He’s already sunk into the darkness.

He releases one of his hands from her, and she feels that at any moment, she’ll fall from this 30-storey building with only one hand supporting her from falling. Momo has lost all her strength, she feels like her lungs run out of air with his one hand still strangling her.

“J-Jin-you—” Momo’s vision became black when she felt she couldn’t breathe. Everything went blank, the next thing she heard was someone shouting “Don’t move! You’re under arrest!”. And she fainted.

 

++

 

Momo opened her eyes slowly and a familiar voice woke her up from her deep slumber.

“Momo! Are you okay?”

It is Jeongyeon and beside her is Cheayoung. She scanned the surroundings and she felt like she was in a hospital room with the smell of antiseptics. Suddenly, she recalled the last thing that happened before she passed out.

“Where’s Jin-young? What happened?”

Jeongyeon heaved a heavy sigh. If only they knew what Momo’s been planning to do all this time, they shouldn't have let the singer meet him all by herself. They agreed to help her when Momo asked them to go to the police station to give the live video recording of her and Jin-young’s conversation at the rooftop. Momo had set up the recording device hidden at the rooftop before Jin-young came. Fortunately the police arrived just in time before anything bad had happened.

“He’s now with the police and being interrogated. But you should have told us that the one you’ll be meeting is someone like him. We were surprised when we saw the video, he’s insane.” The blonde worriedly said, earning a nod from the drummer.

“Yes, I was enraged with what I heard as well, I can’t believe he would do something like that, I mean, if I was in your place, I would not be able to control myself and kill him” said Chaeyoung.

Momo felt relieved that she had friends like these two. Who is willing to cover for her when she needs help and never hesitates to offer a helping hand.

“Thank you, I owe you a lot”.

Realizing that she had escaped a near death experience, she instantly feels the urge to go to Mina, who’s still oblivious about her encounter with Jin-young and about the news that he’s the suspect for her accident.

“I need to go” she sat up, removing all the medical equipment attached to her.

“Hey, you’re still not looking well, where are you going?” Chaeyoung stopped her from her tracks as she looked wobbly standing up.

“I need to talk to Mina, she might be worried” and she ran outside the emergency room leaving the two.

“That’s really like Momo to leave us again alone”

“Right”

 

++

 

Mina was surprised to see an incoming call from Momo at this hour. It was already past midnight and it’s really cold outside. She’s been anxious ever since the singer told her that she’s about to do something for them that Momo’s been keeping as a secret from her.

“Hello, Momo?”

“Mina, glad you're still awake, I’m outside your house”

Faster than a heartbeat, Mina dashed outside her house to see the girl. Upon exiting, she immediately enveloped Momo into a tight hug, like not wanting her to go away. Momo reciprocated the gesture and wrapped her hands around her slender body, planting her head against her neck.

When she released her from her grasp, she saw her face not looking fine, with red lines underneath her neck.

“Hey, w-what happened? Are you hurt?” Mina brushed her thumb on the singer’s neck, while looking at her eyes with worry.

Momo took her hands and caressed them, reassuring her that she’s fine.

“This is nothing, I’m fine now…” she paused and Mina’s not buying her statement that she’s fine.

“It doesn’t look like nothing… What really happened Momo, please, tell me?

“Earlier, after we met at the alley, I went to Jin-young…and I told him that my memories are back and I’m taking you back. But our conversation took the wrong course as we let our emotions take over. And he happened to expose himself to his crime.”

Mina’s brows furrowed at the statement. But her heart couldn’t help but to be anxious with the news.

“W-what crime?” she stuttered.

“Mina, I know this will be hard on you, but Jin-young is now arrested for trying to kill me twice, the first time was when I had my memory lost, and the second time was just earlier when he tried to push me off the building.”

Mina felt her chest tightens and closing up hearing the truth. Jin-young is the one who tried to kill Momo? All this time I thought my secrets were safe with him. I trusted him.

“Mina? Are you alright?”

“I want to talk to him. Please”

Momo was hesitant. But seeing Mina’s eyes, she knew she had to bring her to the police station.

 

++

 

“Park Jin-young, you have a visitor”

 

The police officer unlocked his cell and he was surprised that suddenly someone came to see him at this hour. He's been locked up for almost five hours and he feels suffocated in this place.

Entering the visitor’s area with his wrists cuffed, he felt his heart was about to burst and his eyes couldn’t help to tear up.

 

“M-Mina, I-I’m sorry, please hear me out–”

 

Slap.

 

Mina didn’t waste any second to slap him hard on his cheeks. He fell on his knees with the weight of Mina’s hands that hit on his skin. He was stunned and glued to his position when Mina broke out in tears.

“I trusted you! I thought you were a friend! I honestly believe that I have someone who I can count on when I need a brother that I can turn to. But I was wrong…” she paused as she gathered her remaining strength to continue her speech.

“I was wrong, all this time, the one I’m confiding my secrets to is the one who will betray me. I hate you! I hate you for hurting Momo! I hate you for making our lives miserable, because of you, I almost gave up on my happiness. I almost lost the ones I loved!...” she cried and Momo approached her, caressing her shoulders while looking at Jin-young with disgust. But she couldn’t let her anger come forward, Mina is much more hurt than her.

“F-forgive me Mina, I was out of my mind– I’m really sorry, please” he pleaded, still on his knees.

 

“I don’t know… I don’t think I am capable of that now. You ruined everything Jin-young, and I won’t let you get out so easily.” Mina said grimly, she’s at the peak of her anger. All this time, the culprit is always beside her, disguising himself as an angel who would help her with anything. She was being played at for a long time.

 

“I-I’m sorry…” his words are fading as the two are already gone from his sight. He did them wrong and now he’s facing the consequences of his actions. He knew he deserved this, but when he realized that he had lost all of his chances to be with Mina, even just as a friend, he felt his world collapsing. He grew feelings for the girl without realizing it, full of remorse, he cried on his knees.

 

++

 

Sigh.

 

“That was a heavy one” Momo commented, hearing the younger girl sighed heavily. They are now at their favorite spot, clearing their minds off from the events that just unfolded recently with Jin-young.

“I was still a bit anxious about everything.” she said honestly. Momo wrapped his arm around her shoulders to give her comfort.

“I’m sorry that it had to turn out this way”

“N-no, you shouldn’t be sorry, actually, I am relieved that everything has been exposed now, thanks to you… And I feel bad that the one who is intentionally trying to harm you is the one I’m confidently telling my secrets to. I feel stupid” Mina expressed her dismay.

“What’s important is that I’m alive, and we’re together. That’s all that matters” Momo reassured and kissed her forehead to make her calm.

“I’m happy that we are still able to find each other again after the storm.” Mina said, melting into the singer’s warmth.

 

++

 

The news spread faster than it should. The video of Momo confronting Jin-young and all that happened has been televised nationwide in all the broadcasting stations. It also has spread on all the social media platforms and everyone has a different take on it, most especially if the one who is involved is the rising singer Momo.

“What a plot?! I can’t believe that Momo has lost her memories”

“Who is this Mina that they are talking about?”

“Is she her girlfriend or something?”

“Is this Mina from Myoui Group of Companies? She’s that daughter!”

“Momo should distance herself from her, she’s been the reason why she almost killed”

“I don’t want the idea of Momo having a girlfriend”

“She’s mine”

 

There are a lot of opinions and reactions from netizens and Mina is worried that this might affect Momo’s career. She was about to exit her car when the media approached her, wanting her statement.

“Ms. Myoui, what can you say about the spreading news about your fiance’s conviction?” one of the mediaman asked but she didn’t answer as she felt mobbed by them and it was too private.

“Ms. Myoui, are you and Momo in a relationship?” one of them asked and Mina felt nervous all of a sudden. She doesn’t want to answer but if she won’t, some people will put the words in which can lead to misunderstanding.

“We are not.” She lied. She has this urge to deny their relationship as she feels the people will react negatively if she admits their relationship. Momo’s career just started and she doesn’t want to ruin it.

“Then what are your connections to her? She seems to have known you based on the viral video” Another one had a follow up question.

“S-she’s a friend, that’s all” she couldn’t help but to stutter but fortunately they bought her lies. She excused herself from the crowd as she went straight inside the office building where she’s working. Everyone’s eyes are on her and she can somewhat hear the gossip going around.

“I can’t believe that Jin-young, our COO was arrested, poor Mina”

“Her fiance is insane, he’s obsessed”

“Who’s that Momo? I think she’s one of OKT’s talent, no wonder how she got into our company, she’s friends with Mina”

Mina feels annoyed at what she heard, and she almost lost her cool when she turned her head towards the one who mentioned Momo. But she contained her irritation and kept walking, ignoring the rumors around her. It couldn’t be helped, she’s been the target of all the gossip ever since she’s shown her face in the public as the daughter of Myoui and now that Momo’s also becoming popular, malicious rumors are easy to spread.

 

She went directly to her father’s office, of course, now that Jin-young’s name has been everywhere as the suspect of an attempted murder, Mr. Myoui has his concerns.

 

“Sit down” her father commanded and she immediately complied. She’s been obeying her father since Momo’s accident, of course she wouldn’t let him know that she’s seeing Momo again now or else he would take action to keep her away again.

“I am disappointed with Jin-young…” he said and his voice is starting to get serious.

“I was wrong, I thought I am a better judge of character and I honestly believed that he’s the best option for you, if that Momo had’nt exposed him, I will end up putting my daughter in a more dangerous situation when your wedding happen” he claimed and Mina’s face glow with her father’s remark about Momo. Maybe he can consider Momo to be her fiance.

“Momo did that to save me, she risked her life for me, not only once, but twice” she added.

Mr. Myoui was silenced. He’s really mad at Jin-young, he treated him like a son, but what he did is unacceptable, and he would not let her daughter go near him again. Mina is her only daughter, she doesn’t want her to settle for someone who’s way below her standards.

“I have to thank her in person,” he said. He is sure that Mina is very attached to this girl.

“Also, I’ll cancel the wedding, of course. And I’ll introduce you soon to the son of Mr. Kang, he’s nice and his family runs the biggest hospitals in Korea” he added and Mina clenched her fist with another cycle of this arranged marriage thing.

 

“Why can’t it be Momo?” She spoke her mind, she isn’t always the one to object against her father but her guts are stronger now.

“Why? Can she run the company? Can she represent our company to investors and persuade them to invest? Does she have a double degree? Does she come from a well-known family? Now answer me.”

Mina fell silent. He’s right, it isn’t simple to be a part of Myoui, the empire that her father built for ages should be kept intact and growing. That’s why he prefers someone at par with them. Someone of high standards and will make his company grow further.

 

If that’s the case, I will just quit being a Myoui.

 

++

 

Trial has ended, Jin-young was found guilty for two counts of attempted murder and sentenced to thirty years of imprisonment. For Mina, she wanted him to be sentenced for life imprisonment as she felt that he doesn’t deserve freedom at all with all the things he has done. But Momo, who is the one who mainly suffered from his outburst, is fine with this, so she couldn’t complain.

“I heard what you said in the interview” Momo suddenly broke their silence. They are now inside Momo’s apartment, it’s been so long since she last stepped her foot inside this place and it felt nostalgic.

Mina suddenly felt uncomfortable with the topic, she knew Momo would bring it up soon and it was sooner than she expected.

“Hm, what about it?” She acted unbothered.

“Why did you say we are not in a relationship? Aren’t we dating now?” Momo pouted, she isn’t mad about it, she knew Mina had her reasons. Also, since her father still doesn’t want them together, she thought that might be the case.

“Of course we are dating, you’re mine Hirai Momo, for your information” she giggled, pinching her girlfriend’s soft cheeks. “But this would be better for now Momo, your fans might not like it if they found out you have a girlfriend” she tries to cheer her up by kissing her cheeks, leaving a pinkish kiss mark on it.

“But, are you proud that I’m your girlfriend?” Momo’s voice suddenly became serious. She knew that Mina’s father still isn’t fond of her being his daughter’s girlfriend, his standards are way too high for her. Also, Mina has all these loads of responsibilities transferred to her now that Jin-young’s out of the picture.

“Of course I am proud of you! Don’t ever doubt that, okay?” She confidently says but Momo’s still uneasy.

“But your father doesn’t like me for you, right?”

“I don’t care about his opinion, I care about us” she answered, her eyes intently looking at Momo’s orbs as they are facing each other, sitting on the couch.

“What if—” Momo was stopped when Mina said the exact same word.

 

“What if we elope again?” Mina continued her speech and Momo’s eyes widened at the suggestion.

 

++

 

Mr. Myoui, being true to his words, went to see Momo personally at OKT’s entertainment premises. They are now sitting face to face in one of the executive rooms.

“I wanted to thank you for exposing Jin-young that saved Mina’s life, if you haven’t done that, my daughter would be married to that kind of man…” the president paused as he looked intently at Momo.

“Here” he pushed an envelope towards her direction and she was puzzled by the gesture.

“W-what’s this?”

“That’s your compensation for saving Mina” he said after clearing his throat.

Momo didn’t even look inside the envelope, feeling insulted by the action. She pushed away the envelope toward him.

“I don’t need this” she rejected. “I did those things because I love Mina” she bravely confessed and Mr. Myoui clenched his fist, a bit irritated by her guts.

“If I were you, I would just accept this, that amount could make your life comfortable, for your information.” He added, wanting for Momo to take the offer and leave her daughter alone.

“Did you know how much Mina has suffered because of your stubbornness? Did you know how miserable she was because of your selfishness? Mina hated being your daughter because you’re trying to control her life! You don’t even ask her how she feels!” Momo couldn’t control her urge to speak up for Mina, her father needs some nagging and she couldn’t care less what will happen to her for talking disrespectfully to him. With a hurried step, Momo stepped out of the room leaving the president out of words.

 

++

 

“What happened?” Mina curiously asked as she is now at Momo’s apartment, comfortably snuggling beside her on her couch. They would sneak in secretly towards her apartment after her work is done and after Momo’s done with all her schedules as well. Momo’s old apartment became their secret base. Fortunately her fans didn’t know this place yet.

“Nothing, he just thanked me for saving you, that’s all” he lied as she doesn’t want Mina to be worried. Mina felt there’s something Momo’s not telling her, but she wanted to believe that everything goes well with their conversation.

“My father wanted me to meet someone he picked for me” she revealed and Momo felt her heart tighten with the statement.

“I see, that’s why you wanted to run away again?”

Mina nodded in response.

“Then let’s run away”

Momo determinedly said and Mina was surprised by the sudden agreement. Suddenly she realized that she was being selfish by running away.

“But how about your singing career?” She knew it was Momo’s dream, and running away would end her career.

“If that’s the only way we can be together, I’m fine” she reassured Mina and caressed her cheeks.

“No, I don’t want you to throw away your dream just because of me, I am content just seeing you like this, even secretly meeting you is fine with me”

Momo’s having a hard time as well, she wanted to make Mina the happiest, she wanted to shout to the world that she’s in love with her, she doesn’t want Mina to settle for this kind of situation just because of her. Mina deserves so much more.

I have decided. I’ll do this for Mina.

 

++

 

They kept this set up where they would secretly see each other every now and then despite their busy schedules. Momo is now busy with her upcoming concert and Mina as well has been busy with company duties as she’s now the Officer in charge, replacing Jin-young.

People are really looking forward to Momo’s first ever concert that all the seats are fully booked and netizens are very excited for her performances. Of course, every celebrity has its own share of rumors. Rumors have been spreading around about Momo and Mina’s relationship, some people claim that they have seen the two together clinging arms, some people claim that they rode the same car and the like.

 

++

 

In time for Momo’s first ever concert, Mina was seated at the VIP section, front row, of course Momo gave her the best seat in her concert, she also gave her friends, Jeongyeon, Chaeyoung and Sana, VIP passes.

“Wow, Momo can fill this stadium with her fans!” Chaeyoung commented, feeling proud that she’s friends with the singer.

“She worked hard for this, and I’m happy that she’s now realizing her dream” Jeongyeon smiled and Sana wrapped her arms around her.

“You will achieve your dreams too, Jeongyeon-a” she cutely said, pecking her lips.

“Hey, there were people watching” she whispered and Sana just giggled in amusement, she loves seeing her girlfriend being flustered when she kisses her in public.

Suddenly the lights went off, signaling the start of the concert. When the lights opened, Momo was standing in front. Music started to play and everyone sway their hands with the beat of the song.

Mina feels very proud of her girlfriend doing what she loves, and singing her heart out in front of this massive audience makes her heart fill with bliss. I really love seeing you perform ever since I met you, you even got me with your first song.

She felt warm with their memories, how she was infatuated with her before and how it grows to this strong unselfish love. It was a rollercoaster ride, but still it was worth it.

After a number of songs, Momo stood at the front looking around the audiences.

“At this very moment, I am very happy. No words can describe how I really feel. This was my dream coming true. I want to thank you all for the undying support. Before I end this show, I want to announce two important things.”

Everyone was curious on what’s to unfold. Even Mina couldn’t stay still in her seat, suddenly feeling nervous.

“First, this concert will be my last concert. I am quitting my professional singing career today”

Mina was shocked with Momo’s announcement. What? No way Momo!

“Second, Mina and I are in a relationship. It was true, the rumors. And now, I want to officially ask for her hand…” Momo looked for Mina from the audience and the cameraman was quick to focus on Mina so everyone can see her from the big screen.

“Mina… will you marry me?”

Mina’s mouth was agape with the question, she couldn’t believe that Momo just revealed the truth in front of thousands of people who are now cheering for them. And not only that, she knew it will be televised soon. But her heart is racing very fast at the sudden proposal. Of course she wanted to marry Momo but is it okay? Is this really okay? She couldn’t answer as soon as it was asked, so Momo took a step towards her, went down from the stage and kneel in front of her. This action made people squeal in excitement.

“Mina… do you want to spend the rest of your life with me?” She asked again as she took a tiny box of diamond ring from her pocket and Mina’s tears unconsciously fell as she nodded with her eyes wet.

“Yes” she uttered and melted into the singer’s tight hug.

 

“I love you, Mina. I’ll make you the happiest from now on”

 

 

++

 

Two years passed. Mina is now at a cafe, waiting for Sana to arrive as they agreed to meet after Sana gets back to South Korea for good. When she saw a familiar silhouette approaching the glass door, she waved her hand to catch her attention.

“Mina– Oh God, you’ve become prettier! I missed you so much!”

“I missed you too, Sana-ya! How’s your married life with Jeongyeon?”

“Well, we argued a lot, I mean a lot. Living together is sometimes bothersome, you know, you can meddle in each other’s private lives more than when you’re still dating. And you know me, I am always misunderstood as being flirty when in fact I’m just being nice to everyone, and Jeongyeonie hates that. Also, we always argue about little things at home” Sana couldn’t stop talking and Mina giggled at her friend's usual rant like it was just yesterday when they last meet.

“Enough of me, how are you and Momo?” she diverts the topic. Mina falls silent at the mention of Momo’s name. She hadn’t seen the singer for months now and she’s missing her so much.

“We haven’t seen each other for almost a year but she’s almost done with her special conservatory studies in the US, I hope she’ll be back here soon”

“I’m not asking about that, I’m asking if things are okay between you two, and about your father?” Sana rephrased her questions to get a clearer answer from her best friend.

Mina again, falls deep in silence, remembering the last time she saw her other half. Her words keep echoing inside her head reminding her that she’ll be with her soon.

“I will come back soon, Mina, I will be back with a better version of myself that you and your father can be proud of.”

 

After the last concert, Momo and Mina ran away to the United States, they settled there and got married in Texas. It was hard at first, living together far from your homeland, Momo needed to work on jobs that aren't her cup of tea. Mina also applied for jobs but being at the bottom of the corporate ladder was difficult for her as she’s used to being the one making decisions and leading a group of people was her strength.

Everyday was hard, they only found comfort when they were in each other’s arms at the end of the long tiring day. It became their habit but then Momo realized, Mina’s not that happy. She’s been eaten by stress and exhaustion everyday, Momo could handle the pressure but Mina couldn’t. She was a former heiress and being an ordinary office employee has taken a toll on her, Momo can notice it all, her struggles.

One day, she decided to talk to Mina’s father over the phone, thanks to Taecyeon who helped her to reach for the president’s personal number and of course it comes with a lot of nagging telling her to come back to Korea and continue to create music.

She was able to talk to him, telling him that they are in Texas, and they already got married. Mr. Myoui isn’t happy about the news but he isn’t surprised, he knew Mina would do this when she left Korea with Momo.

“I have a favor to ask, please take care of Mina for me, Mr. Myoui” Momo suggested and he was confused with the offer.

“What? How bold of you to ask me that, after the two of you ran away from all your responsibilities?”

“I’m not abandoning her, I just want you to still treat her as your precious daughter, like you used to do. I know you love her, she’s your only daughter and I am sorry for taking her away from you. As a father, I understand your concern. You want Mina’s partner to be someone who she can depend on and someone who can give her the best she deserves. I admit, I am not that capable, that’s why I want to have a deal with you, sir. I will hand her over to you for the meantime while I do my best to become the person worthy of her.”

Mina’s father thought about it a lot, at the end of the day, Mina is still his one and only daughter, his only family. It wasn’t a bad offer. He hates to admit it but Momo has proven that she could do everything for her daughter, she would even catch a bullet for her and that is one of the reasons why she’s considering Momo’s offer. It was better than to cut ties with her daughter.

“I’m actually considering your offer, but I just want to be sure. Is Mina okay with this?”

“She’s your family, and I know, that deep inside she wanted you two to reconcile, as a father and daughter, not as business partners”

“If you can make her come back here in Korea, I agree to your plans. Make us proud” he soft heartedly said. For the very first time, the president sounded accepting of her.

 

Mina didn’t agree to it at first.

“Why can’t I stay here with you? I want to be with you while you’re studying and all” Mina suggested.

“Mina, I know you’re not a hundred percent happy with this set up, you belong at the highest class, leading your people, working hard to grow your own business, that’s in your blood. And I can feel it everyday that you missed being in Korea. I don’t want to shut you off here while doing my best to be someone worthy, I want you to do what you’re passionate about, and after that, if I become a bit closer to your level, I will get back to you, and I want to make you and your father proud.”

Mina felt the words are all on point, she tried so hard to hide her frustrations in working at the bottom but Momo has seen through her.

“But I will miss you so much! what if you found another girl in your school and forget about me! What if you didn’t come back?” she doesn’t want to be away from her again, they’ve been through a lot, and she doesn’t want to feel that unbearable pain of being apart.

“Do you trust me?” Momo said while caressing her cheeks, wiping the tears that unconsciously fell from her eyes.

“I do, but–”

“No buts, I promise, I will come back soon, Mina, I will be back with a better version of myself that you and your father can be proud of. This is the future I envisioned for us, and I will make it happen.”

With a defeated sigh, Mina nodded.

 

“I will wait for you”

 

++

 

“When are you coming back?” Mr. Myoui asked over the phone.

“I am almost done with the requirements, I guess I can come sooner than planned”

“Mina’s doing well here as well, I know, she’s anxiously waiting for you, whenever your name is mentioned, her face says everything.” the president revealed and Momo giggled at the remark.

“I’m glad that she’s doing well, and I am glad that I can talk to you casually like this now”

“I’ve seen your determination, and maybe, I want to see Mina’s bright smile and only you can make her happy. Also, Taecyeon has been bombarding me with questions about you, he’s more excited to see you than anyone else.”

“I can see his anxious face”

“By the way, Mr. President, can you not tell Mina when I am coming back? I want to surprise her”

“Sure, no problem. Also, please call me father, you’re married to my daughter so please drop calling me Mr. President”

Mr. Myoui has witnessed Momo’s efforts to be worthy and deserving to his daughter. It was hard to study abroad, especially to be accepted to the most prestigious advanced school in the US for music. Taecyeon has always been telling him that Momo could make it big when she comes back, she has bigger opportunities in their company, and she can have a big contribution to their global expansion. But business aside, Momo’s taken his soft spot. She's polite, respectful, has dignity and is willing to do everything for the sake of her daughter and her reputation.

How can I not like her? I can now understand why Mina is so attached to her.

 

++

 

Mina just closed a big business deal and she wouldn't be able to do that without the help of her team. They worked hard everyday for this success and when they asked if they could all go out for a drink tonight, Mina can’t say no, can she?

It was years ago when she last drank soju, she remembered it was the times when she was so miserable about letting go of Momo believing that she’s doing what’s best for her. It was a painful memory but still, it is a part of who she is now. Breaking from her thoughts, one of her male staff sat next to her.

“I couldn’t believe you can drink Ms. Myoui” he praised and Mina just smiled a bit at the remark. It wasn’t like that, Momo’s way better than her in handling alcohol. Thinking about her makes her heart full with warmth. She’s missing her so much, and looking at the diamond ring on her finger gives her comfort and an assurance that she will come back.

It feels nice to be drinking knowing that the reason is for celebration. She couldn’t count how many shots she had emptied as her staff kept pouring soju on her shot glass. It was fun, but the effect of alcohol is slowly kicking in her system making her hot all over and her vision a bit hazy. Some of her colleagues already went ahead and a few stayed a bit with her.

“Ms. Myoui, we’ll be going to the bathroom for a while, Ms. Lee feels like throwing up, we’ll just accompany her.”

Mina still can hear them clearly and just nods. She was left alone at the table, all the other staff had already gone home. Thinking about drinking her last shot, a man who looked like the same age as her suddenly approached her.

“Excuse me. Can I sit next to you?”

Mina felt uncomfortable.

“Who are you? We haven’t met before” she’s trying to recall, knowing that her vision’s not that vivid due to the alcohol.

“You’re really drunk” the man scoots closer, and sat beside her, his hands travelling down to her knees rubbing her thighs.

“I’m just saying, you’re really cute, we can have some fun tonight”

Mina was frozen in her position, she couldn’t react as soon as he touched her as she’s feeling her head throbbing hard. She swatted his hands from her thighs, slapping them hard away from her.

“Get rid of your filthy hand” she said annoyingly. “You’re trying to seduce a woman because she’s drunk, how low” she commented and it aggravated the man.

“It’s the same for you, right?! You’re here to seduce a guy, aren’t you? Look at how short your skirt is!” the man reasoned.

 

Mina was about to answer back when someone suddenly pulled the man away making his knees fall to the ground.

“Mina– what are you doing here?”

“M-Momo! Since when–”

“Let’s talk when we get home, come out” Momo immediately turned around, her cold reaction made her heart constrict. She didn’t know that Momo’s coming back today and this is what she had witnessed upon returning. She followed her, her back facing her. It’s been almost a year since she last saw her, her back looks broader, Momo has changed. She has become more attractive now. But she felt embarrassed, the timing just , this isn’t the one she had imagined it to be.

“Momo… I missed you” she expressed under her breath, she wanted to touch her but Momo looked mad. There was an uncomfortable silence. Momo isn’t talking to her, even the ride to her apartment was silent.

 

Momo just entered the apartment, still not looking back at Mina.

“Are you really angry? You’re not gonna talk to me?” Still no answer from Momo.

“Momo, say something” she clutched onto her arm and Momo couldn’t help but to look at her. Mina’s face is red all over, maybe because she was drunk, but Mina’s sure it was because she’s with her lover.

“Why are you drinking alone at that place, how many times have I told you to not put yourself in danger!” Momo was mad, if she hadn’t been on time, Mina’s already taken advantage of some dirty guys around. She noticed that Mina’s also wearing a mini skirt which made her a vulnerable target.

“I-It wasn’t like that, I was with my team, I am not alone, the timing just—”

Momo suddenly pulled Mina’s hips closer to her and she couldn’t stop herself from kissing her hard. Those wet and sloppy kisses are evidence that she’s been missing her so badly, not being with her for so long has made her this aggressive.

With a push, Mina bounced at the couch’s foam and the next thing she knew, Momo already undone her clothes, leaving her only with undergarments.

“You will only show this much skin to me” Momo whispered near her ears and Mina felt electricity had struck her at how the words turned her on. She feels hot all over where Momo’s lips have touched. The older girl had already pushed her skirt upwards, revealing more of her skin. Momo kissed her everywhere, every bit of her. It was like claiming her again for the lost times they haven’t seen each other. Momo is far beyond being gentle, but she couldn’t complain. Aggressive Momo is hot.

“No one can touch you beside me” Momo said as she pulled her down. Mina has been yearning for her touches, and this kind of intimacy is a whole new experience for her. Momo has always been gentle with her when they are making love. But now, it was wildly different.

Momo bit her ears as she glided her fingers down her abdomen. Then Momo pressed her digits inside her making her arch her back in ecstasy. Mina gasped at the sudden but it felt so good that she pulled Momo’s neck closer to her giving her an open mouthed kiss.

“I– want– more of you” she managed to say in between her moans.

Granting her wish, Momo pulled her hips closer, making her s deeper and faster. Mina felt her head spinning at the aggression but she couldn't have enough. One, two, and more s, she feels the pressure on her lower abdomen about to peak. WIth a one more deep , Mina disintegrates and her sweating body collapses against Momo’s.

Momo used to be gentle, but today, she’s so rough, but she loves this kind of side of her as well. Facing each other, Mina pecked her lips and still couldn’t believe that she’s now at the arms of her spouse.

“Please don’t be mad at me anymore” she pleaded and Momo kissed her neck, still wanting more of her.

“I’m not mad. It just annoys me to see that someone has the guts to touch you, I just controlled my temper earlier, if not, I might have broken his skull and you wouldn’t like that” Momo explained. Mina giggled seeing how cute Momo is being jealous.

“I’m sorry, It won’t happen again, I promise” she said to make Momo calm down.

“Let’s get married again here in Korea, let’s hold a formal ceremony since we hadn’t had the chance to have one in Texas” she suddenly proposed and Mina’s face flushed at the sudden proposal, like they are literally while talking about this.

“There’s a timing for telling those things Momo–”

“Sorry, I always get too excited when I’m with you” she grinned and she dived again into her kissing her bare s.

“Let’s do it again”

 

++

 

“This will be one of the grandest wedding ceremony” Taecyeon commented and Mr. Myoui nods beside him, sitting at the round table situated near the platform. It was a very expensive wedding at one of the most sought after venues for high-profile weddings. It is a very large hotel pavilion surrounded by trees and flowers. It was like being in the middle of a huge garden.

“I’m content, seeing Mina happy is one of my biggest success” Mr. Myoui finally realized the real essence of being a father.

All of their friends are present, Jeongyeon, Chaeyoung, Sana and also Sohye are there. Nichkhun is also there. Nayeon was also surprised when she was invited and she brought along her new special friend Tzuyu. The media men surround the event and there are also famous celebrities invited, some offered to sing at their wedding.

Momo stood at the aisle, patiently waiting for her better half. Then the background music suddenly played, it was the song she wrote for Mina.

All eyes followed the beautiful bride on her white sparkling long wedding dress walking down the aisle. The lyrics of the song are very meaningful for Momo and it reminded her of their struggles and beautiful memories together.

 

Be my only one

The name I want to call you by

Let’s hold hands and walk along

On rainy nights or on lonely days

Please color me with your shiny light

I’ll do better when you promise me we’ll stay together.

 

They both teared up the moment Momo held her hands, now facing each other, not wanting to let go.

It was surreal. Mina never imagined that they would have a happy ending after all they’ve gone through. All the drama and the push and pull relationship with her is all worth it, and now they will vow for their love to last forever.

 

“I promise to love you and always be by your side, through all of the ups and downs.”

 

++

 

FIN.