PROLOG ~Inspirations~

Taemin’s interview from Anan no. 2037 “Love and Compatibility” feature issue, article titled SHINee Taemin “You need at least 10 years to open my heart” (170121).

Some parts highlighted:

“Even if our personalities are different, if we are able to understand each other (come to terms with the differences) and is someone whom you can trust from your heart, I believe you can sustain a good relationship forever. Wouldn’t this ultimately lead to “being compatible (well matched)”.”

(about the type of people he dislikes)

“Regardless of gender, the type of person who has many friends and builds relationships broadly and shallowly (someone who has many shallow friends).” “Rather than having many friends, I’m satisfied as long as I have a few friends (people) I could trust!”

(about the method of developing a trusting relationship with his cherished person)

“Personality wise, I’m not good at opening up right away so I’m the type to close the distance by learning about the other person little by little. It takes quite some time but I’m able to build an intimate relationship.”

“It’s the same for romantic relationships. I don’t want to be in a kind of love that can easily be acquired. It would be nice if we could be in a romantic relationship on the condition that we’d able to face each other honestly, learn a lot about each other, and maintain a long relationship.”

Trans. Mredwardsanders

ENJOY!

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It was one of those nights when Kibum and Eunji were having their evening dates. Kim Kibum was a fashion major student who happened to be mesmerized by the music major’s diva, Jeong Eunji, when she performed her singing at one MT night. While enjoying the beautiful night view in one of the city parks, they leisurely having small catching up talks, sharing each other’s stories.

“Kibum-ah, remember my long-time friend, Naeun-ie?” Eunji, the younger girl by one year, uttered in a question tone. 

Despite of not bothering to part his eyes away from the enchanting view in front of them, her college sunbae responded with a gentle tone, “Oh, the art major girl, right? I remember her.”

Eunji continued, “I'm starting to get worried about her.” She turned her head to him. “You know how a pretty goddess she is, right?"

Kibum made a face, pretending to contemplate, "Well, you're prettier in my standard." Eunji scoffed, already feeling butterflies in her stomach but her worries for this Naeun girl was bigger so she jokingly scolded him, "Kibum-ah, listen well." The latter chuckled, "Arasseo, arasseo, mian. I'm listening."

Smiling, Eunji turned her head back towards the night view. "She’s a single-since-birth. She never dated because she is afraid to be hurt.” The corners of her lips lifted as her lovely Naeun's face appeared in her mind. “Naeun is the type to devote herself once she loves someone. That’s why I only want her to meet a nice guy. Eventhough I want her to meet someone, it’s hard to find a good one. I tried looking for a few times, but, no avail.”

Eunji turned her head facing Kibum, “I really want her to be happy, too...” Kibum faced her back, “like me, after meeting you.” They both smiled at each other.

“Kibum-ah, do you have someone in mind?”

Kibum tilted his head to the side. “Well, your story of her just somehow reminds me of one cocky guy I know.” Just thinking about the other guy made Kibum laughed, Eunji raised her eyebrows curiously. “He seems cocky because he’s likely rude, and he doesn’t befriend anyone. But it’s all because he doesn’t want shallow relationships.”

“How about his love life?” Eunji asked, getting more curious.

Kibum thought for a moment. “He hasn’t date anyone since I’ve known him. He’s not good with women since he doesn’t have experience, but I’m sure once he finds the one..., he’ll open his heart all for her. I have known him for 5-whole-years, and all I know now is that he’s a devoted friend. I get to see myself how different he is to other people.”

"Mmmmm..." Eunji hummed, processing all the information she just got. Will this do?

Mesmerized by her furrowed thinking eyebrows, Kibum acted up as he scoffed and jokingly said, "Mwoya, are you thinking about other guy in front of me?" Eunji annoyedly hit his ribs making him winced, they laughed together right after.

It’s already midnight when they arrived at Eunji’s house. Before getting out of Kibum’s car, Eunji turned her body to face him, “Kibum-ah.” The latter turned his focus on her. “I want to give it a try. Let’s arrange them a meeting.”

And of course Kibum could only smiled at his caring girlfriend.

***

“What? I don’t want to do it, Eonnie!” Naeun whined. The freshman of the Art Major pouted, “You know I don’t like meeting someone I don’t know. Isn’t this a blind date?”

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