THREE

 

 

Minjoo is seriously fine with their complicated situation, meeting Yujin everyday in different bodies, it’s alright with her— be it a man or woman. It’s still Yujin, she’s not visually attracted to her anyway, she has no problems with that and so far, they never encountered anything wrong or any problem.

 

At least not yet.

 

It’s been three days since that confession thing happened and Minjoo still hasn't officially broken up with Chaewon yet because she can’t seem to spot the latter anywhere and won’t even answer her texts. It’s almost as if fate is playing with them.

 

No luck for today too since Chaewon is absent. Minjoo just shrugged it off and went to the bus stop, she’s about to meet Yujin at the Han River but they won’t spend their time there, they will just meet there and Yujin will fetch her because thankfully, she woke up in a guy’s body who has a nice car.

 

She waited near the parking space, fumbling on her phone until a nice Rover halted in front of her. She immediately lit up when the window closed, revealing a very good looking man inside. “Joo,” He called and it’s definitely Yujin.

 

Minjoo smiled at him and hopped inside the nice car, buckling her seatbelt after giving him a peck on the lips. “Now where are we going?” She asked, excited as Yujin drove.

 

“Far away, I want to take you out for dinner, so…” He answered, briefly glancing at her before settling his monolid eyes into the road once again. Minjoo was in awe because this guy is very handsome and attractive. “Sounds good.” She responded with a small smile.

 

“By the way, this guy is handsome.” She commented with a teasing grin. The man rolled his eyes, shaking his head in amusement. “His name is Hwang Hyunjin, pretty rich.” Hyunjin— Yujin said with a chuckle.

 

The both of them jammed together with their favorite songs blasting through the speakers, laughing and conversing wholeheartedly throughout the pretty long drive. The spirit even will steal kisses from Minjoo if he spots a chance like whenever the car had to stop because of a red light.

 

After almost two hours of driving, they finally reached the private restaurant where Yujin made a reservation as Hyunjin, away from Seoul. They happily ate there, always having a comment at how good the food is. The spirit kept pouting, “If I could just wake up in rich people's bodies everyday then I will certainly treat you with very nice food daily.”

 

Not long after that wonderful heavy dinner, the both of them decided to stroll around the nearest beach, hand in hand with a can of light beer in their free hands. Minjoo was the one who insisted, she said that it’s a good day to drink beer, but light only because Hyunjin, or just Yujin, needs to drive them and she can’t afford to be drunk.

 

The both of them sat near the shore, barefeet. Minjoo kept drawing things on the sand, like her name with Yujin’s name while the guy will just giggle and watch her with eyes full of fondness. The both of them feel at peace.

 

The raven haired woman leaned her head to the guy, resting on his broad shoulders, as she hugged the jacket Yujin lent to her close. “I feel satisfied. I just wish everyday is like this.” She whispered and the spirit chuckled at her sudden comment.

 

“If we just could,” He muttered, pulling Minjoo closer. “It’s better if I’m in my real body…” He added quietly and the woman certainly heard him clearly which made her turn to her, giving her a pointed look.

 

Minjoo knew Yujin’s insecurity and deep worries about this situation. But she’s here to always reassure the spirit anyways.

 

With a sigh, she slowly reached for his face, caressing it and staring deeply through his orbs, feeling her heart race upon seeing that familiar glint again. She sees the universe. “Hey, I told you. I’m fine with this, I’m content.” She muttered. “I seriously don’t mind this.” She added, placing a kiss on his lips before pulling him into a warm and reassuring embrace.

 

The main reason why Yujin didn’t want to risk in the first place is because of her situation but for Minjoo, she tried because she wanted for Minjoo to be treated like a princess. Sometimes, insecurities will attack her and thankfully, her lover is always there to reassure her.

 

Yujin can’t help but to think, until when Minjoo will last in this kind of set up?

 

Not long after that, they decided to go home. The almost two hours of ride was full of silence because Minjoo fell asleep, while Hyunjin— Yujin drove while in a deep thought.

 

The guy dropped Minjoo off their house and after that, they promised to meet each other again tomorrow and the woman told how she enjoyed their date and trip, placing another kiss on his lips before she went out of the car.

 

Minjoo waited for the Rover to disappear before walking inside the house— Hyewon, her mom immediately attacked her with countless questions because she went home late. “Did you go out with Chaewon?” Her older sister asked, curious as she ate her snacks.

 

The younger shook her head after greeting her worried mom with a kiss. “No, with a friend,” She answered tiredly before excusing herself to her room, briefly meeting with her father’s gaze.

 

—

 

The day after, Yujin slowly opened her eyes open, sighing as the unfamiliar view of the ceiling greeted her. Slowly, she stood up, checking the gender of the owner of the body and it’s a girl— thankfully. Well, she should move now.

 

She went to the mirror, yawning and stared at herself— her brow arching and lips twitching when slowly, she realized something. She’s staring at Minjoo in the mirror, which means— “Holy ,” She whispered, covering , eyes wide and still glued at her reflection.

 

“I’m currently in Minjoo’s body!” Yujin exclaimed in surprise, grinning at herself before squealing, clapping to herself as she crossed her arms around her chest like she’s hugging Minjoo. “Oh my god, love, don’t worry— I won’t do anything stupid.” She muttered to herself before walking towards the table, combing Minjoo's long raven locks while giggling to herself.

 

While in the process of combing Minjoo’s hair, a familiar yet not so familiar muffled voice suddenly intensified, coming from outside. “Minjoo!” And not long after that, the door opened and a head peeked in.

 

Yujin blinked, this must be Minjoo’s older sister, Hyewon— and wow, she’s beautiful too, she and Minjoo look similar in many ways. “Yes?” She softly asked. Hyewon answered, “Breakfast is ready, shower already and we’ll eat together.”

 

She nodded, throwing her a small smile. “Alright.” She responded before walking towards Minjoo’s pink towel and took it off from the hanger while Hyewon just hummed and closed the door.

 

As she showered, she kept giggling and tried her best not to look down there. After all, her respect for Minjoo is just high so she wouldn’t dare to take a peek, no matter what. She immediately rinsed herself and went out, wearing her usual clothes before going downstairs— she made sure to give Minjoo’s mother (hehe mother-in-law) a kiss because Minjoo usually does that. It’s almost an instinct, after all, this is Minjoo’s body plus basic information started to flood her mind.

 

She just met gazes with her father though, and threw an crooked smile to make things less awkward although if that’s the real Minjoo, she would just ignore him that was why the man was a little bit shocked but recovered anyway.

 

The breakfast wasn’t entirely silent since Hyerim— Minjoo’s mom, kept blabbering about random stuff and reminding her husband what to do. Minseung, Minjoo’s dad, just nodded along, timidly saying that he’ll be at his ‘office’ after doing the task.

 

Hyewon just mostly used her phone while she was left to awkwardly eat there but nonetheless, Minjoo’s family isn’t that bad. She kept glancing at her father, maybe she should do something later, hopefully, Minjoo will forgive her.

 

After that, Hyewon and Minjoo rode the former’s car— Hyewon usually takes Minjoo to school then goes to her workplace. In the car, Yujin couldn’t help but to giggle and check herself on the mirror everytime just to take a glance at her lover’s face. Hyewon was weirded out.

 

“Woah, woah, girl.” The older woman exclaimed, scratching her head. “Why are you suddenly acting weird?” She asked and Yujin froze, letting out an awkward laugh after. “It’s nothing, I just feel pretty. I did my make up differently today,” She answered with a small smile.

 

Hyewon hummed, briefly glancing at her. “Yeah, I noticed.” She muttered and added, “It’s pretty, by the way,” She complimented and the younger’s grin just became wider.

 

Hyewon dropped her off the gates and Yujin took a deep breath, tightly clutching Minjoo’s bag straps and encouraged herself before going in, immediately spotting Wonyoung. “Hey, Wonyo,” She called and the taller woman greeted her back with a hug.

 

They mostly talked about their homework in Mathematics and some gossip before settling inside the classroom. Throughout, Yujin couldn’t help but to be proud of herself because she nailed acting like her lover in school.

 

Finally, the class is over. Yujin wanders around the hallway, walking towards her locker to put her books inside, she actually has no plans— probably go home and know Minjoo more personally with her own perspective.

 

While shoving her things inside the locker, she felt a presence approaching and not long after, she felt someone pushing her and pinning her against the locker, a pair of lips started to ravish hers which made her freeze. It’s Chaewon.

 

The kiss, thankfully, didn’t last— Yujin did her best to shove Chaewon away, trying her best not to cringe in disgust and wipe her lips. The shorter woman gave her a wolfish grin, “Hi, babe,” She greeted, still leaning closer to her.

 

Yujin almost snickered. She let out a forced smile, trying to get out of her hold and continued tidying up her things, leaving Chaewon confused. As far as Yujin knows, until now, Minjoo still hasn’t ended their relationship because Chaewon is not always around.

 

“It’s been a while, Min. How about let’s go out?” Chaewon tried, leaning against the lockers with hands inside her pocket as she watched her. Yujin closed her locker and forced a crooked smile at the shorter woman. “Uhh, no. It’s fine.” She answered and walked away, she’s angry and she’s trying to hold back because she wanted Minjoo herself to end things between them.

 

Chaewon was dumbfounded but followed her anyway. “What’s wrong with you?” She asked, obviously pissed off. Yujin slowly paced her, putting out a poker face. “I’ve noticed the changes, y’know. I’m not blind, just who are you hanging out with? After that, you became more distant.” She hissed.

 

Yujin scoffed, she has guts. The spirit is obviously pissed off that she could feel smoke forming on top of her head. “You know, maybe you should think of yourself sometimes,” She responded with a cold tone. Chaewon’s brow shot up.

 

“Maybe sometimes, you should think that it’s your fault why everything became like this.” She added with a sigh, the shorter woman’s lips twitched, scoffing in disbelief as she pointed at herself but Yujin continued anyway. “It’s you who is lacking, Chaewon. I tried my best to hardcarry this ‘one-sided’ relationship, everyone is aware of that, everyone is a witness. Don’t blame me for ‘changing’ and falling out of love.” She finally said it directly.

 

She acted like Minjoo will most likely do in this situation. Hopefully, everything will go nicely.

 

Like she expected, Chaewon did not take this lightly. Scoffing, Chaewon scowled before throwing a cold question. “So, there is someone,”

 

Yujin’s eyes narrowed. “No. It’s just completely about you. Let’s part ways, Chaewon. We are not compatible, we don’t match each other’s pace.” She answered firmly which made Chaewon scoff and roll her eyes.

 

“Whatever,” Chaewon retorted before turning in the opposite direction, walking away and left the other woman there.

 

Yujin waited until Chaewon was nowhere to be seen anymore and rejoiced as she walked down towards the gates and to the shed to wait for the bus she would ride home. “Sorry for meddling, love. I just can’t help it.” She whispered to herself with a smile, feeling her chest going light.

 

After that, she decided that she should get herself some coffee first before going home. As she rode the bus, she sipped on her iced coffee, thinking of what she should do. Hmm, maybe she should talk to Mr. Minseung.

 

So when she reached home, her feet led her to the Kim patriarch’s office. She didn’t bother to knock and just opened the slightly ajar door, slowly entering the small study room where Kim Minseung usually spends time writing.

 

The smell of crisp books greeted her, and slowly scanned the surroundings, there are three bookshelves full of different kinds of books and just a huge table at the center, piles of paper standing beside the computer monitor and in front of it, Minjoo’s father is sitting, giving her a curious yet confused look.

 

“Minjoo? What do you need?” The man asked softly, surprised that his daughter willingly visited him here.

 

Yujin just silently gazed at him, striding towards the bookshelves and saw a sign ‘written by: Kim Minseung’ in a certain section and took a book, scanning it while the man just watched her.

 

“...Once & Before,” Yujin silently read the title and opened it, reading the prologue. It’s a novel about a once perfect family and somehow, it’s a hint already that this novel must be about their family life.

 

After that, she properly placed it back to the shelf and faced the man awkwardly. “You’re good at writing.” She complimented, which is true. This man has a talent for writing, and from now on, she will secretly support Mr. Kim’s works because he’s good with words.

 

The man was caught off guard but recovered immediately, clearing his throat. “Why, thank you.” He responded. Yujin just smiled before picking another book, reading the prologue or synopsis intently and another one. There is even a poem book titled, ‘For you, and you, and you’. It sounds horrible, but when Yujin had read some of it, it’s for Miss Hyerim, Hyewon, and Minjoo.

 

“The way you convey your thoughts, feelings through writing. I love it,” She commented once again, feeling her heart swelling and Minjoo’s father became tense, acting like he got caught. She then walked closer to his desk, spotting their family picture in a frame and picked it up, admiring it with a smile.

 

“But sometimes, you need to say it verbally or at least show it in order for the others to hear you.” Yujin added as she placed the frame down back to the desk and smiled at the silent man. “Father?” She called.

 

Minseung looked up, the corner of his lips tugging up to form a smile. “I will, daughter.” He responded and with that, Yujin grinned before walking out of the study, sighing to herself then went to Minjoo’s room, feeling successful as ever.

 

It made Yujin think, she didn’t even remember if she ever had a family, maybe for sure— at some point, she did and she badly wanted to meet them again but it’s been long since she ever accepted this fate of hers. To wake up in different bodies everyday.

 

A curse or a punishment, as Yujin would like to think it as.

 

She lied to Minjoo that day when she asked if it’s hard to be like this. It is, and it’s very lonely. If Minjoo didn’t come into her life then she must be bored to death and would continuously wish for herself to vanish.

 

Shaking off her thoughts, she went to the study table of her lover and took a piece of paper, writing down what happened while she inhabited her body with a smile etched on her lips, she also apologized deepy for meddling. After that, she placed it neatly on the table and wasted her time by admiring Minjoo’s face.

 

She also helped Hyewon to cook some dinner for them and Yujin noticed that the Kim patriarch was unusually chirpy and she knew it was because of what happened earlier, she couldn’t help but to secretly smile too.

 

After that, she went back to the room and just cleaned Minjoo’s already clean room to ease her boredom and even tried to search for some albums, she found one and it’s full of baby Minjoos. Yujin couldn’t help but to giggle as she admired how cute kid Minjoo is.

 

And when Minjoo’s phone alarmed, she immediately went to bed, scrolling through the feed and took a lot of selfies then uploaded it to her private instagram, she can’t wait for her lover to check those out tomorrow.

 

When the clock struck 11:50pm, Yujin finally turned off the lamp and went to sleep with a smile on her face.

 

“Good night, Joo. I hope you won’t get mad at me tomorrow.”

 

—

 

When Minjoo woke up from her deep slumber, she felt… heavy yet light at the same time. She was confused because it felt like she slept for two days or so, her body was a little bit weak but nonetheless, she could manage.

 

Still confused at the sudden feeling in her body, she stretched her limbs and went out of her bed to prepare for school but then her droopy eyes caught something placed on her table— a paper, a handwritten letter.

 

She picked it up and read it out of curiosity, blinking in realization when she realized that it’s Yujin— Yujin woke up in her body yesterday and the spirit wrote everything that happened yesterday.

 

Minjoo sat on the chair, still reading it with a smile forming on her lips unconsciously as her eyes scanned the letter, chuckling from time to time because Yujin sounded excited yesterday and even told the story where she had to bathe with closed eyes throughout.

 

She barked a laugh at that but soon enough, that grin turned into a frown because Yujin kept apologizing all over about meddling on her life. She took a deep breath, giggling at her apology because she ended things with Chaewon herself yesterday when the said woman suddenly appeared.

 

Actually, Minjoo isn’t mad, she will never be mad. She’s more than relieved because she’s scared that if she will face Chaewon herself, she will just feel so bad so she’s glad. But then, she saw in the last part— mixed feelings, because Yujin wrote that she approached her father and did some magic, she clarified.

 

Minjoo trusts Yujin, so she let it be. Even mentally reminding herself to thank her personally if they ever meet earlier.

 

She folded the paper into half and tucked it between the random pages of her journal and grabbed her phone to message Yujin before she even takes a shower and prepare for school. After that, she didn’t wait for her reply and just went straight to the bathroom and took a short bath.

 

She wore her outfit for today, and went downstairs, slinging her backpack on her shoulders as she walked to the kitchen, it’s Friday so it means her mom went to work earlier than usual, and Hyewon is also on a day-off so she wouldn’t be able to drop Minjoo off to school. In this kind of situation, Minjoo will usually drive or ride a bus but she’s not in the mood to drive today.

 

Taking some toasts, she placed one between her lips and nibbled on it while she spread butter on the other one. She ate her toast with her usual coffee and after that, she finally went out of their house, locking it— surprisingly, her father is there at the front yard, seemingly fixing their other car.

 

She suddenly remembered what Yujin wrote down, there might be some changes between them and Minjoo doesn’t know what to do, just go with the flow, as usual.

 

Quietly, she walked to the pathway, she was hesitating if she should greet her father or what, but the man beat her into speaking first. “Minjoo,” He called and the woman instantly turned to him, her brow quirking. “Yes?” She asked, temporarily halting her steps.

 

Minseung wiped his dirty hands with a towel, approaching her. “You will ride a bus?” He asked, and this is the first time her father actually asked her about her ride in the morning to school. Minjoo nodded as a response, kicking a pebble away. “Yes.” She answered.

 

“Oh, I could drive you at your school.” Minseung offered, a little bit hesitant and unsurprisingly, embarrassed but kudos for him. That offer caught Minjoo off guard, silent for a few moments because she was really shocked.

 

The man noticed the awkward silence, ready to take the offer back because he doesn’t want for his daughter to feel uncomfortable. “But it’s okay if you don’t want—” He was then silenced when Minjoo threw him a small smile, nodding almost enthusiastically. “Yes, please.”

 

The ride was, expectedly, a little bit awkward since the both of them won’t talk, leaving the music to ease the heavy atmosphere in the car. Minjoo busied herself talking with her lover while Minseung focused on driving but briefly, he would glance at his daughter if there’s a chance.

 

It’s been a while since Minjoo had a car ride with her father, the last time was when they were still close and Minseung was the one who usually drops her off to school before going to his work. After all, she was daddy’s girl, she’s not going to deny that.

 

But actually, Minjoo felt light and comfortable even in the midst of awkwardness. Her heart feels warm because her father once again drove her to school. Oh how she missed the old times where they would sing along to the music on their way to Minjoo’s past school. She didn’t wish for more, she didn’t expect for more either— she knew how that incident made a huge wall between them, but at least, there’s a development.

 

Baby steps. Minjoo would like to repair her relationship with her father. It won’t be quick and easy, she knows— that’s why, baby steps.

 

Not long after, they reached the school and Minjoo awkwardly gathered her things and was about to open the door when her father suddenly spoke. “Enjoy your day, dear.” He quietly said and Minjoo froze, it’s the usual phrase that her father would say to her whenever he drops her off.

 

Unknowingly, Minjoo grinned, looking at the man through her shoulders and slipped out of the car and before she could even close the door, she threw her father a sweet smile. “Will do. Drive safely back home.” She said and closed the door gently before dashing inside the school.

 

As she skipped towards her class, a smile never faded on her lips— even Wonyoung was confused at her sudden happy mood but never asked anything and just smiled at her too.

 

Yujin is also inside the school because the body she’s in today because attends classes here also so they decided to meet in the abandoned lab room, a perfect place for students who are in need of privacy.

 

Minjoo ditched lunch to meet her lover there and when a woman entered, she perked up, immediately walking to her and hugged her. The spirit immediately hugged her back when she closed and locked the door, pressing a kiss on her lover’s crown.

 

“Hey, Joo,” The taller woman said, and Minjoo gasped in realization and faced her. “Woah, Jin-ie, you’re using Lee Chaeyeon-sunbaenim’s body…” She gawked, starstruck.

 

Chaeyeon— Yujin chuckled, patting Minjoo’s head. “Yeah, she’s quite popular around, yes? She’s also nice too, my god, this woman is such an angel.” The spirit said then hugged her once again. Minjoo melted in her arms.

 

“Thank you for doing stuff yesterday, stuff that myself wouldn’t ever dare to do.” The raven haired woman muttered, tightening her hug. The taller woman froze for a bit, Minjoo’s silky hair. “You’re not mad?” She quietly asked and with that, Minjoo broke the hug to look at her lover’s eyes, a familiar glint greeting her and she felt warm.

 

“No, I’m thankful,” Minjoo said with a sweet, sweet smile— pecking her cheek. “Thank you, Yujin-ah.”

 

A blush crept up into Chaeyeon’s pale cheeks and coughed awkwardly, nodding. “I’m relieved, love.” She muttered, sheepishly grinning at her after. Minjoo’s smile became wider. “Let’s go out for some dinner.” She suggested.

 

Upon hearing that, the spirit became tense, looking apologetic and Minjoo’s smile faded. “Sorry, Joo but I can’t. Chaeyeon’s girlfriend, Eunbi, already made plans for them later at night.” She answered, feeling guilty but even though Minjoo is upset, she forced a smile, a very understanding one. “It’s alright.” She muttered.

 

Chaeyeon— Yujin sighed, pulling Minjoo into a brief kiss. “I’ll make it up to you tomorrow.” She whispered against her lips and the raven haired giggled weakly, pushing her away gently. “You don’t just go kissing people like that when the person has a girlfriend. It feels like Chaeyeon-sunbaenim is cheating.” She said and the taller woman pouted, nodding.

 

“Alright. I’ll just message you later? See you tomorrow.” Chaeyeon— Yujin bid goodbye, not forgetting to do her usual gesture— caressing her cheek then tucking the stray hair behind her ear before going out of the lab room, leaving Minjoo there, shoulders slumping as she sulked.

 

When Minjoo reached the exit of the school, she met Chaewon who’s leaning against the wall and seemingly waiting for someone. She just ignored her, not in the mood to face the woman but the world is against her today.

 

“Minjoo.” Chaewon called for her and approached her as the raven haired halted, taking a deep breath before facing the bob haired woman. “Aren’t you going to take back what you had said yesterday?” She directly asked, looking annoyed.

 

Minjoo’s foul mood worsened because of the question, ah, yes— she almost forgot that Yujin handled her yesterday but for the first time, Chaewon sounded like she was going to take her back. Minjoo knew better, the shorter woman was just annoyed at the fact she doesn’t have any partner to fool around with from now on.

 

“No. I told you, let’s just end this. I gain nothing from our relationship anyway.” The raven haired woman firmly said, jaw slacked as she glared at her now, ex-girlfriend. “Thank you for everything, I guess.” She added, venom lying underneath her tone.

 

“What the , that’s it? You’re going to throw everything we had in the drain, just like that?” Chaewon asked in disbelief, bitter and furious. Minjoo sighed, Chaewon does have a very wrong perspective in relationships— she’s not being a responsible lover yet being aggressive whenever confronted with the other partner’s concerns. She always thinks that relationships have this dominant and submissive dynamic which is unhealthy.

 

Relationships should be fair, dragging each other upwards or falling down with them together and not letting one hard carry it alone. Both should understand each other too, the partners should fit each other like puzzles but for the case of them both, they are pickle and chocolate, they don’t go well together.

 

Minjoo wished she realized that sooner.

 

“Why not? I’m the one who’s suffering the most here, and you don’t know that because you do not give an ounce of care. See, that’s the problem, Chaewon. Be a better lover because no one will last with you as their partner.” Minjoo bitterly spat before turning away, walking out smoothly as she left Chaewon dumbfounded there.

 

The moment she reached the waiting shed, she let out a relieved huff of breath, feeling like she got freed from a leash. Finally, she’s out of this unhealthy relationship, for real. Oh, Wonyoung will definitely throw a party if she ever hears this wonderful news.

 

She decided to hang out with Wonyoung instead because Yujin wouldn’t be able to accompany her today.

 

—

 

Another two weeks had passed ever since the incident and Minjoo is having mixed feelings because throughout the past week, she just only saw her lover thrice but she’s getting closer to her father once again.

 

Ever since that Chaeyeon incident, Yujin suddenly started waking up into bodies who are the owners are busy or too far. So, they could only message each other or call most of the time and it’s frustrating Minjoo to the core— she just misses her lover so much.

 

And finally, they are going to meet later again at a bakery where the owner of the body works. After three days of not seeing each other. Too bad, Yujin couldn’t ditch the said owner’s work so Minjoo will just adjust, she’s willing to travel around just to meet her lover anyway.

 

When she finally spotted the said bakery, she couldn’t even suppress an excited smile and immediately entered the cozy looking bakery named, Aeong Breads. The great smell of freshly baked bread and raw dough with a hint of vanilla greeted her as she entered the shop.

 

The woman tending the counter turned around to greet her, and when their eyes met, Minjoo instantly grinned because she could recognize that glint everywhere. “Hey~” She greeted as she leaned on the counter.

 

“Hey, Joo.” Yujin said, and Minjoo whistled because the body her lover is currently possessing is such an attractive and charming woman with a deep voice. “By the way, call me Heejin later. Her girlfriend, who’s the owner of the bakery herself, will be here in a bit.” She said which made Minjoo pout.

 

“When I thought I would be able to spend time together with you, alone…” Minjoo whispered dejectedly as she weakly dragged herself to the nearest chair and sat there. She could see her lover giving her ‘sorry’ looks from the counter as she gathered some bread and placed it on the tray.

 

Not long after, a plate full of croissants and a glass of lemonade was placed in front of her and Heejin— Yujin sat across her, sighing. “I’m really sorry, love. It’s just…” She got cut off. “It’s alright. I understand that, Yuj. You absolutely have no control of it.” Minjoo said with a small smile.

 

The spirit pursed her lips together and released another sigh, reaching for her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “If I could just stay longer at someone’s body, of course, someone who is single and not busy with life.” She joked which made Minjoo giggle.

 

With that, the raven haired started to eat while her lover stayed, watching her eat until someone entered the shop. “Heekkie!” Someone called and Heejin— Yujin immediately looked up, forcing a smile as she stood up to meet the newcomer halfway, hugging her. “Hey, Hyun.”

 

Minjoo silently watched the exchange, eating her croissant slowly. She doesn’t like the feeling, she could feel jealousy bubbling into her.

 

Hyunjin, Heejin’s girlfriend and owner of the bakery itself, gave her girlfriend a peck of the cheek and Minjoo almost crushed the remaining bread with her hand, narrowing her eyes. “Minjoo, you shouldn’t feel like this… No,” She whispered to herself.

 

Minjoo stayed for a little longer but didn’t last for half an hour because Hyunjin kept flirting and clingy, Yujin— who’s Heejin currently, needed to act and go with the flow too. Just hearing their giggles and worse, seeing them being lovey-dovey made Minjoo sick so she immediately finished her food and drink before dropping by to pay it.

 

She avoided Heejin or just Yujin’s worried gaze, and immediately exited the shop, she could breathe properly now unlike earlier. God, it’s seriously sickening and she doesn’t have a say in that. Like Minjoo said, she completely understands Yujin’s situation but witnessing her lover acting so in love with another person made her so sick and would want the ground to eat her up whole.

 

Taking another deep breath, she shook her head to collect herself and her thoughts before starting to walk but before she could even take the third step, another body collided with hers. “Oh, I’m sorry—”

 

“Minjoo? Fancy seeing you here.”

 

That familiar voice, Minjoo could recognize that everywhere. She gasped in realization and looked at the owner, blinking. “You!” She pointed at the person in front of her and the latter giggled at her sudden action. “Yes, me.” She said, grinning and her whiskers appeared which made Minjoo’s heart flutter.

 

“Shin Ryujin!” Minjoo exclaimed, in great shock before breaking out into a laugh. It’s been a while since she ever seen this childhood friend of hers, maybe two years? Ever since the said woman transferred into another school, after that— somehow, they lost contact.

 

“Kim Minjoo!” Ryujin mimicked her, chuckling as she pulled her old friend into an embrace. “It’s been so long,” She whispered then broke the hug. Minjoo nodded in agreement, still in shock. “Yes, indeed! How are you, you jerk?” She asked, slightly smacking Ryujin’s shoulders.

 

The shorter woman shrugged, scratching her brow. “Still the same~ Minmin~” She cooed, then patted her puffed chest. Minjoo giggled. “God, I missed you so much!”

 

Ryujin pouted. “Likewise,” She answered timidly but with a soft tone. “Anyway, where are you going right now? Want to tag along with me? I have no companion.” She offered and Minjoo liked the idea, nodding eagerly. “Same~ let’s catch up with one another, shall we?” She said, raising her brow as she grinned brightly.

 

Wiggling her eyebrows in a suggestive manner, Ryujin held Minjoo’s wrist. “Sounds fun~” With that, the both of them walked together along the street, not even noticing a pair of eyes watching them from inside the shop.

 

Yujin silently gazes through the window, still eyeing the spot where Minjoo spoke with someone unfamiliar to Yujin and sighed. She just continued wiping the table then she heard a concerned voice behind her, it’s Hyunjin, walking to her with a worried expression. “You okay?” She questioned.

 

She forced a smile. “Yes.” She lied through her teeth before continuing to wipe the table clean.

 

—

 

Days passed by and it went completely normal, Minjoo found Ryujin again and they started to communicate often. They were inseparable back then, too bad the latter had to move out so they lost contact.

 

She still tried to meet Yujin everyday though, nothing much eventful happened— until, one day: Yujin woke up in Ryujin’s body and Minjoo was very much amused since they could go out in public and stuff.

 

“I still couldn’t believe it, love.” Minjoo said, breaking out into a small pit of laughters while Ryujin, or more like, Yujin gave her a judging look. “It’s just so amusing, you know? I’m kind of close with Ryujin.” She added, taking another spoonful of ice cream and ate it, still giggling while the other woman pouted, sulking as she ate her own ice cream.

 

They then walked to the abandoned playground where Yujin confessed and where they shared their first kiss to spend time together there, it’s still barely afternoon but it’s a nice and peaceful place, they have privacy too.

 

“You know, I never thought I will be able to hold hands with Ryujin like this romantically,” Minjoo thought out loud as she eyed their intertwined hands. Yujin hummed, feeling her hold loosen because of what she said but Minjoo tightened it anyway. “But it’s you anyway, so I shouldn’t act aloof and embarrassed. It just feels weird but I have no complaints.” She remarked, as she placed a kiss on top of Ryujin’s back hand.

 

Yujin chuckled weakly, supporting Minjoo by holding her hand tight as she balanced herself to the rocks then walked there instead.

 

So far, their day was peaceful and full of fun, but mostly, just Minjoo giggling because Yujin is in the body of her childhood best friend. Yujin even thought that she shouldn’t kiss Minjoo today using Ryujin’s lips because her lover might find it a little bit awkward.

 

They reached the rusty swing and sat on each, their intertwined hands dangling at the middle as they just silently watched the sun slowly setting. Minjoo felt at peace, it’s like she’s spending time with Ryujin and Yujin at once, well, it’s really like that, technically.

 

Somehow, she found it more comfortable than the rest, she felt relaxed and all. If she ever tells her situation to Ryujin, the latter would definitely believe her, not after countless times of laughing first but she decided not to, at least not yet.

 

When the night fell, they decided to stay there at the rocks instead because it has the perfect view of the night life of the city as they ate their takeout while conversing with one another about random things. Minjoo suddenly craved for a cold beer, it's a very perfect time to sip a cool beer in this kind of setting with her lover.

 

Ryujin— Yujin has her arm draped around her shoulders, leaning to each other as they silently gazed through the sky and below while they take occasional sips from their sodas, for now, sodas will suffice because it’s the beverage they bought.

 

“You know, I like this,” Minjoo drowsily muttered, comfortably snuggling on her lover. “It feels so comfortable with you as Ryujin. Somehow, I don’t really feel much awkwardness but… I feel safe and cozy.” She added.

 

The spirit hummed, drowning herself into her own thoughts. “Really?” She quietly asked, nibbling on her lower lip. Minjoo nodded slowly, shifting closer. “Yes… Oh, I wish you could just stay as Ryujin for a long time… I wouldn’t mind,” She whispered, a sigh coming after.

 

There was a silence between them and Minjoo didn’t mind it much, just feeling cozy and satisfied. Until Yujin suddenly spoke, it caught Minjoo a little bit off guard since it’s Ryujin’s voice.

 

“You know, I could try staying in this body for a while.” Yujin suddenly said which made Minjoo’s eyes shot open, leaning away to look at her properly. “Is that possible?” She asked, surprised and eyes wide. Her reaction made Yujin chuckle. “Maybe. We’ll see later. Do you think Ryujin will be alright forgetting stuff?” The spirit then asked and Minjoo chuckled with that, nodding.

 

“Believe me, that girl wouldn’t care at all. She would just shrug everything off. You know that, you’re in Ryujin’s body after all, you also have access to her mind.” The raven haired woman said, sheepishly grinning at her. Yujin hummed, nodding along as she rubbed her nape. Well, Ryujin is indeed the ‘I don’t give a ’ type, plus she wouldn’t mind to do anything for her childhood best friend anyway so Yujin took the risk.

 

“Alright, I will try to stay in her body tonight. So, stay with me until later?” Ryujin— Yujin said, eyes pleading Minjoo and the latter sweetly smiled at her, leaning closer to press a kiss on her lips— for a moment, she cringed but she realized, she doesn’t have any reason to cringe, it’s Yujin anyways.

 

“Of course.” And they waited until midnight.

 

The shorter woman was sweating hard when the clock struck 11:50pm but she focused, for Minjoo. Speaking of the woman, she’s beside her, holding her sweaty and cold hand for support as she gazes at her with full of encouragement and full of concern too.

 

When it finally became midnight, Minjoo’s heart almost froze out of nervousness when Ryujin, or just, Yujin— had her eyes tightly closed, and when her hold loosened, Minjoo deflated, thinking that the plan didn’t work.

 

When Ryujin opened her eyes, and looked at Minjoo, the latter gasped because the familiar glint in her eyes stayed still which means— “Joo, I did it. I managed to stay.” She announced, surprised at her own self either. Minjoo was frozen for a solid second before breaking out into a squeal, jumping to Ryujin— to Yujin and peppered kisses all around her face. “Good job, love!” She said, cupping her cheeks and rested her forehead into hers while grinning.

 

The spirit also smiled, staring right back at Minjoo’s orbs and not long after that, they succumbed into a passionate kiss. Yujin was in relief that she didn’t feel Minjoo’s hesitance or anything, even matching her pace. At first, she really thought she wouldn’t be able to kiss her because she’s in her good friend’s body but it looks like Minjoo doesn’t mind it as long as she’s the one inside the body.

 

And this newfound ability of hers, when she thought she couldn’t control it— she could, with the right focus, she could stay.

 

Yujin can’t tell whether this is the right or wrong thing to do but as long as Minjoo is happy, she’s ready to risk everything she has.

 

—

 

The first and second days Yujin managed to stay inside Ryujin’s body, it went smoothly— they only see each other in the afternoon though since they have classes but thankfully, weekend is nearing so they could spend time together longer and earnestly.

 

Minjoo was about to exit the classroom when Wonyoung suddenly called for her, she halted and waited for her taller friend to catch up. “Hey,” The older greeted and the both of them walked towards the hallway, passing Chaewon and her group of friends who gave her dirty looks but Minjoo ignored it. Wonyoung glared at them though before turning to Minjoo again.

 

“Hey, is there something going on with you and Ryujin?” Wonyoung asked, looking excited. Minjoo snorted, technically, there is but it’s actually Yujin. “No, we just recently became close again, that’s all.” She answered timidly and the taller woman giggled, shaking her head in amusement. “Aye, but to be honest, you look happier with her and she’s a nice girl. Both of you look good together.” She commented dreamily.

 

The comment made Minjoo blush, waving it off and didn’t answer, just silently walking towards the gates with the taller woman. They parted ways after that, Minjoo went to the waiting shed while Wonyoung would walk home.

 

Both lovers met each other on the abandoned playground once again to spend their time together, Ryujin— Yujin was silent and looked like that she’s not in the mood but Minjoo didn’t pay mind much to that since it happens sometimes, even so, her lover would still react and respond to her.

 

When night fell, they decided to spend time in Ryujin’s house because it said that it will rain hard tonight and unfortunately for them, the rain poured sooner and they had to run towards the Shin Residence, a little bit drenched but they just laughed it off.

 

Minjoo wiped her slight drenched shirt, still smiling then untangled her damp hair while the other woman just giggled, opening the door for them. It’s alright since Yujin said that the other members will be out until night so they’re safe but even so, it’ll be fine if the other Shin are here because Minjoo is a little bit close with them.

 

When Yujin opened the door, it was dark— she gently pulled Minjoo in and then opened the lights, almost giving them cardiac arrest when in fact, they are not only the people present inside. “Happy birthday, Ryujin!”

 

The lovers were both dumbfounded, Minjoo gasped in realization, so that's what she missed. She forgot that it’s Ryujin’s birthday today and Yujin seems like it got out of her head too.

 

Ryujin’s parents went to their daughter with their youngest, Yuna while holding the cake for her. Ryujin’s friends are present too. “Happy 19th birthday, daughter! Make a wish!”

 

Minjoo and Ryujin— Yujin made an eye-contact before the latter turned to the cake, awkwardly and faking like she’s making a wish before blowing the candles. The people minus Minjoo cheered loudly while the spirit just smiled weakly, guilt creeping up into her nerves.

 

They all went to the small feast and ate together, Minjoo was a little bit left out but Yujin tried her best to accompany her, it’s just Ryujin’s friends kept asking for her attention and Yujin couldn’t reject them. While Minjoo was standing by the corner and silently sipping on her cola, Yuna suddenly walked up to her smoothly. She was close with Yuna before too.

 

“Yuna,” Minjoo muttered and the blonde grinned at her, pulling her into a brief hug. “Hi, Minjoo-unnie~ It’s been a while.” She said, giggling to herself before turning to watch Ryujin talk with her friends. “I heard from Ryu-unnie that she met you a few weeks ago so I was excited to meet you again.”

 

Minjoo hummed, playing the bottle of her cola as she playful bit her straw out. “Yeah, we just met again just a couple of weeks ago.” She confirmed and Yuna chuckled, turning to her with an excited gaze. “Pardon me for being blunt like this but I’m itching to know. Ryujin-unnie just kept talking about you ever since you guys met again and these days, she has been sneaking out quite a lot and she would reason that she’s with you…” The tall blonde started off.

 

“Are you guys dating?” Yuna finally dropped the bomb and Minjoo almost choked in her cola, blushing as she looked away from the blonde. “H-Haha, no, we’re not a thing. We’re just friends.” She stammered and Yuna just gave her a teasing smirk and an accusing brow.

 

“Hmm? I do not believe,” The youngest Shin said, giggling after and Minjoo just kept mum. After that, there was a silence between them but not for too long since Yuna broke it by saying, “I like you so much for my sister. I hope you guys end up together.” And with that, she walked away, blending with the group of friends, leaving Minjoo dumbfounded.

 

The raven haired woman released a sigh, grumbling something under her breath. “It’s Yujin whom I like, not Ryujin…”

 

The small party ended after an hour, Ryujin’s friends bid goodbye and went home because the rain finally stopped pouring. Minjoo awkwardly sat at the sofa with Yuna sitting beside her and fumbling on her phone, while across her— Mr. & Mrs. Shin were looking at her with eyes full of expectation, she knew that look.

 

Ryujin, or just, Yujin came back from upstairs, wearing her jacket and grabbed her car keys. “I’ll just take Minjoo home.” She plainly said and gestured for Minjoo to come with her and the latter did, standing up and then bowed at the old couple. She then bid goodbye to them and to Yuna as well, she also wished them good night before running to her lover outside.

 

The ride was quiet, Minjoo wanted to ask if there was something wrong because Yujin was silent and won’t even pay attention to her, looking like she was in a very deep thought so she just let it be.

 

Even when they reached Minjoo’s house, Yujin is still silent, just gazing through the windshield. “Yuj.” She called for her and the said woman weakly turned to her. “See you tomorrow?” She whispered, also in great hesitance and a little bit awkward because of the spirit’s sudden cold behavior.

 

“See you tomorrow, Joo.” Yujin responded, forcing out a small smile and with that, Minjoo went out of the car, not even giving her lover a kiss and just watched the car maneuver out of their driveway, then went inside when the car disappeared from her sight.

 

When she entered the house quietly, Hyewon and her father were there in the living room, watching her every move. Her older sister shoved a popcorn in , eyeing her. “Do I even need to ask?”

 

Minjoo briefly glanced at them weakly as she took off her shoes and approached the stairs. “I would rather not talk about it.” She answered, walking upstairs, leaving the two confused at her gloomy mood.

 

—

 

Minjoo woke up, panting heavily and sweating— it looks like it’s going to be a bad day today or she’s just assuming. She didn’t like the churn of her stomach at all and the fact that Yujin never messaged her last night nor this morning didn’t help.

 

Throughout the classes, she couldn’t focus and was restless, even Daehwi and Wonyoung noticed it and kept asking Minjoo what was wrong but she never said anything. The two friends were worried for the raven haired.

 

When afternoon came, Minjoo’s phone suddenly dinged, indicated that someone messaged her and flinched a bit before checking it. She literally dropped everything when she saw that the message was from Yujin, and opened it.

 

yjeveryday:

 

after your classes, go to our usual spot.

the playground. stay safe.

 

Minjoo’s heart started to beat erratically as she replied a simple ‘okay’ and tidied up her things in a hurry before bolting out of the room, not even minding her worried friends. She just ran towards the waiting shed and lucky her, the bus was still there and immediately hopped inside.

 

She reached to their usual spot in no time, sweating a bit and panting softly but her exhaustion almost faded when she saw a familiar figure sitting on the big rocks, staring at nowhere. She fixed herself first before approaching her lover.

 

“Yuj,” Minjoo called to earn her attention and Ryujin— Yujin looked behind her, greeting her back. “Minjoo.” She whispered, it was odd since the spirit didn’t even use her nickname she made for her nor smiled at her, she remained weak.

 

Minjoo gulped, walking near her and sat beside her lover, still eyeing her. The glint in her eyes, it’s too weak and too sad for Minjoo’s own liking, she could feel her heart aching a bit.

 

“Yujin, what’s wrong—”

 

“Minjoo, we need to stop this,”

 

It felt like a bucket of cold water was splashed over Minjoo when she heard Yujin say that to her. She froze for a good few seconds before breaking into an awkward giggle. “Hey, don’t joke like that, Yuj.” She said, almost breathless.

 

Ryujin— Yujin’s serious eyes remained on her, expression unfazed. “I’m serious, Minjoo. Let’s stop this…” She whispered weakly, shoulders slumping defeat. Minjoo’s crooked smile faded, meeting eyes with her lover, giving her a very desperate look. “W-Why?” She asked, voice breaking as her heart started to shatter— her ears were ringing after hearing all of those words coming from Yujin herself.

 

The spirit looked away, eyes starting to mist too, feeling her heart ache when she saw Minjoo’s broken look— clenching her fists. “I’m really sorry, Minjoo. We can’t continue like this. This relationship won’t take us to somewhere.” Yujin emotionlessly said, trying her best not to look at her lover.

 

Minjoo scoffed in disbelief, shaking her head furiously. “No, no,” She exclaimed, tugging the other woman’s jacket helplessly. “Yujin, I told you. I’m fine with this routine, I never get tired. You said you’re also fine with this—” She got cut off when the other woman fired back.

 

“No, Minjoo. Stop.” Yujin said, closing her eyes as she gritted her teeth. “I did say that… but somehow, along the way, you will get tired of this. Minjoo-ah,” She continued, fluttering her eyes open before turning to her lover and met her eyes sparkling with tears and pain. “But it’s not just about us, how about the people who I possess? How about Ryujin? It’s too selfish of me,”

 

Yujin took a deep breath, averting her gaze once again, biting her lower lip while Minjoo just stared at her with a gaze of disbelief and hurt. “We can’t live through this, Minjoo-ah. It’s the truth, we can’t— I can’t. I’m a spirit who wakes up into a different body everyday, Minjoo! That’s my purpose in life. How foolish, when I fell in love with you and chased you… then when you started to like me back, It’s too unreal— too selfish.” She paused, pressing her lips together in a thin line.

 

“I just want for you to live a normal life, Minjoo. Love a normal person, not a lone cursed spirit.” Yujin added, breath hitching as she said that.

 

Minjoo is hurt, so hurt that she couldn’t even breathe because she could feel her heart shattering into pieces as painful words started to pour out from Yujin. She couldn’t accept it, she couldn’t believe that Yujin would give their relationship up.

 

“But we’re doing so well…” Minjoo weakly stuttered, and Yujin bitterly chuckled. “No, we’re not doing so well, Minjoo-ah. Can you see? Meeting each other in private, away from other people’s eyes. You had to travel around just to meet me, and you meet me everyday in different bodies.” She answered.

 

Gulping, Minjoo shook her head, insisting and stubborn. “But I’m not complaining, Yujin.” She hissed, slackening her jaw. Yujin just weakly glanced at her, tiredly shaking her head. “I saw how you’re getting tired of this… Minjoo, you shouldn’t be a fool like this.” She nagged.

 

“Last night, it kept me awake and sleepless, so restless. It made me realize how we won’t work out in the end. We’re already facing a lot of difficulties with this set-up, we won’t last Minjoo. And I think that’s enough of me being selfish.” Yujin said, obviously frustrated to herself as a lone tear fell from her eyes.

 

A single tear also fell from Minjoo’s eye. It’s too painful, way much more painful than anything. Yujin huffed, shaking her head once again. “I don’t want this for you, Minjoo.” She muttered and that’s the last straw.

 

Minjoo glared at her as endless tears started to flow from her eyes, trying her best to breathe properly even though she found it hard by the way her chest ached. “You promised me, that you will make me happy, feel loved, feel deserved, feel wanted?” She quietly asked. “Why are you hurting me?”

 

Yujin refused to meet eyes with her. “I did my best, I poured my all, you know that. But it’s not enough, Minjoo. I thought I will be the person who will make you feel things like that until the end but I didn’t think that deeply, the factors.” She answered, playing with her fingers. “Sadly to say, I’m not the person— I’m not a person too but a spirit,” She whispered and lowered her gaze. “A spirit who’s madly and selfishly in love with you.”

 

“Minjoo, you can’t have a normal relationship with me. What would happen to us in the future? I know there were some rumors around your school that you kept meeting different people almost everyday. It hurts me, it’s a stab in the heart. God, why was I blinded by love and selfishness?” Yujin bitterly asked herself before turning to Minjoo who’s silently sobbing and her heart, it’s almost non-existent anymore because of how much pain she’s feeling right now.

 

She promised herself that she won’t make Minjoo cry but here she is, but it’s for the best. It’s for her own good, why would a beautiful lady like Kim Minjoo stick into a spirit like her?

 

“I’m really sorry for pulling you into this, Minjoo. I just want you to be happy. To have a normal life, have a normal partner. I don’t for you to have a ruined future with me. Please, Minjoo, let go, hate me.” The spirit begged, holding her both hands as she sobbed.

 

Minjoo kept mum, expressionless as she just watched Yujin cry her hearts out, she could feel the suffering and guilt. She felt so hurt by it also, Yujin is suffering too much. She doesn’t want to let go of her, but… their situation...

 

Yujin would gladly let her go rather than be stuck with her. And it’s a slap to Minjoo. She slowly understood— the burden and insecurities Yujin carried while they were dating. The overthinking, god, Minjoo doesn’t even want to think that Yujin really regretted risking for the both of them because she will hurt Minjoo in the end. But what is love without pain?

 

“Yujin-ah,” Minjoo softly called, trembling a bit. The other woman looked up slowly, sniffling like a child. The raven haired didn’t know what to feel when she saw her lover crying like that. “I understand.” She gave up, she surrendered.

 

“Okay, I will let go, as you wish.” Minjoo dropped the bomb and she swore to god, it’s so hard to say but for the better— as Yujin said, she decided to finally let go. Yujin gulped, nodding in relief but she could see the pain in her eyes.

 

“But before we part ways permanently, can we spend the whole night together like we’re still lovers?” Minjoo begged, biting her lower lip. Yujin had no guts to reject it and just nodded, pulling her lover closer to her.

 

The both of them spent the whole night hugging, ignoring the painful aches in their hearts as they just held each other close while they looked at the night sky. And when the clock struck 11, Yujin offered Minjoo a ride back home and the latter didn’t protest.

 

The ride was silent as expected, Minjoo tried her best not to cry but she cherished their very last moment. After all, she might never meet Yujin again— the spirit made a decision that if she ever saw her one of these days, she won’t approach her and leave her be. Minjoo is too upset to even verbally give her answer.

 

Minjoo winced when the car came into a halt, they’re literally in front of their property now. She didn’t move, neither Yujin but the latter turned to her with a bitter smile after a few moments. “So, this is it… Sorry again, Minjoo. For hurting you.” She muttered and Minjoo sighed with that, shaking her head as she unbuckled her seatbelt. “Don’t apologize, I wanted this too. I caught feelings for you too, Yujin.” The raven haired responded with a tired smile.

 

Their eyes met again and Minjoo saw the universe in it, she almost broke into tears again at the thought of not seeing that glint anymore. “I just want to say that I really, really love you, Yujin.” She breathed, biting her lower lip. Yujin looked at her helplessly, reaching for her shaky hand and brought it near to her lips, pressing a kiss on her knuckles. Minjoo held back her sobs with her other hand.

 

“Remember this, Kim Minjoo,” Yujin whispered, meeting eyes with her once again. “You’re the very first and last person I will ever love.”

 

Minjoo snorted, shaking in disbelief and almost wailed when Yujin slowly placed her hand back to her lap. Yujin smiled at her, a sad and broken one. “Minjoo.” She called once again and Minjoo is so weak, so weak— she just managed to hum because she couldn’t find her voice.

 

“Can I be selfish once again for the last time and let me say this,” Yujin asked for permission, eyes glimmering and who is Minjoo to say no?

 

Minjoo smiled back, nodding to gesture for her to continue. The spirit took a deep breath. “Once I found myself back, once I’m back with my own body and the moment I meet you again,” She paused, hesitating a bit but nonetheless she continued after Minjoo’s encouragement. “I’ll chase you back.”

 

The raven haired woman broke out into a grin, shaking her head in amusement as tears still continued to flow from her blood-shot eyes. “Please, do so, I will be waiting for you, Yujin-ah.” She said with a small smile and it made Yujin smile too. “No promises, still,” She muttered before gesturing outside. “You should go inside your home now.”

 

Minjoo’s smile faded with that and took a deep breath, nodding even though her heart begged to stay, she can’t— she can’t, anymore. She learned from Yujin herself that she should let go if needed. She opened the passenger seat, her heart broke again.

 

She hesitated for quite a while and before she could even go out, Yujin suddenly spoke again. “You know, Ryujin and you really look good together.” She commented sincerely which made Minjoo look at her and laugh, that action made the spirit smile too.

 

And the next gesture Yujin did, Minjoo swore, she almost threw herself at the other woman and beg not to let go.

 

Yujin reached for her face, caressing her cheek ever so lovingly and wiped the tears with her thumb before slowly tucking the stray hair behind her ear. After that, she smiled at her, a very bright smile. “You have a very beautiful smile” She muttered, it’s one of the things she loved the most in Minjoo. “Please, don’t ever lose it.”

 

Minjoo broke, resisting the urge to hold Yujin’s hand but before she could even grab it, the latter retreated and gestured to her to go now. Minjoo pursed her lips tightly before carefully hopping out of the car, giving her ex-lover a look before closing it, walking towards the sidewalk and stared at Yujin through the see through windshield.

 

She fought the urge to go back, and let her feet stay rooted into her spot.

 

Before Yujin drove away, she mouthed ‘I love you, Minjoo’ and Minjoo’s knees buckled, feeling her world crushing as the car disappeared before her. She almost fell into her if she didn’t use the wall as a support, crying out loud in the middle of the empty night and sidewalk.

 

It’s so painful, so painful.

 

She didn’t know how she managed to drag herself inside their house but after a few minutes of crying like a stupid crazy woman in front of their gates, she decided to go inside because Yujin wouldn’t want her to get sick.

 

With a numb heart, bloodshot eyes, tear stained cheeks, red nose, and expressionless face— she entered the house and was immediately greeted by Hyewon who’s hanging out alone in the living room.

 

Her older sister was surprised at her current state and snorted at her, staring. “Woah, did you just get dumped or what?” She joked, but actually, she felt bad because this is the first time she saw Minjoo vulnerable like this.

 

“Hyewon, I would like to tell you something,” Minjoo mindlessly said, not even answering her questions, staring at nowhere and Hyewon quirked her brow, shifting in her position as she looked at her younger sister with a curious look. “What is it?”

 

Minjoo took a deep breath, she needed to let this out. “I fell in love with a spirit,” She started off. “A spirit who wakes up into a different body each day.” She paused to look at Hyewon and like she expected, the latter was just looking at her with full amusement.

 

“Just what are you on, Kim Minjoo? Just sleep.” Hyewon said with a laugh, shaking her head as she continued watching the drama series. Minjoo scoffed, why did she even try. Maybe because she was too desperate to let everything out.

 

With that, Minjoo wordlessly went upstairs and locked herself into her room while Hyewon remained worried for her sister who suddenly went home in the middle of the night, looking so broken.

 

—

 

Yujin stared at the ceiling, then at the clock beside her. It’s 11:59pm already.

 

She took a deep breath. “I’m so sorry, Ryujin.” She whispered to herself. “I borrowed your body for almost a week, I’m really sorry.”

 

With that, she slowly closed her droopy and heavy eyelids, she was too exhausted from crying and the painful ache in her heart didn’t fade either. Tomorrow is a new day.

 

“Please, take a good care of my Minjoo.”

 

The clock struck midnight.

 

—

 

Minjoo woke up, feeling like a . She doesn’t even want to go to school, it’s Friday, after all but she needed to because she had some important meeting later with her group mates so even though she’s feeling like a pure and zombie, she did her best to prepare.

 

She didn’t even bother to eat some breakfast, she doesn’t have any appetite. She doesn’t have any energy to deal with anything or do anything. It felt like she’s in command mode, she felt so lost, so hurt.

 

With a sigh, she went outside, ready to walk to the nearest waiting shed when suddenly, the familiar voice of her father stopped her. “Minjoo! I’ll drive you to school.” He said and dashed to the car, opening the passenger side for Minjoo and it made the latter smile, muttering a small ‘thanks’ before settling inside.

 

In the middle of the ride, Minjoo was in a very deep thought, she almost opened her Instagram and message Yujin but then, she realized— it just became part of her daily routine, so don’t blame her— and to prevent it from happening again, she deleted the said app and just kept mum throughout, even if her favorite songs are playing in the radio, she didn’t even react.

 

Minseung noticed it and went into action, clearing his throat to get her attention. “Minjoo, is there something wrong? You look very off and… broken today.” He started off and Minjoo briefly glanced at the man before sighing, not saying anything and just leaned her head on the glass window.

 

The man side-eyed her and let out a sigh too. “You know,” He said, pausing for a while. “You could always tell dad everything. Your worries, your secrets, anything— like you always did before.” He added and Minjoo bit her lower lip, staring at her father helplessly.

 

Minjoo contemplated for a while but in the end, she poured her deepest feelings out. She trusts her father, she does— he was her everything before until that happened but now, everything is falling into place.

 

“I fell in love with someone, dad,” Minjoo started off, bitterness lacing around her tone but her heart fluttered a bit. Minseung hummed, still focused on driving but his ears are all on her. “But not just someone but with a spirit.” She revealed yet somehow, it feels bittersweet and unreal. “A spirit who wakes up in a different body everyday.”

 

Minjoo added before turning to her father, who is surprisingly taking everything well unlike Hyewon, he showed no judge nor disbelief, just listening intently. She gulped. “Do you believe me, dad?” She asked, breathless.

 

The man briefly glanced at his teary-eyed daughter. “I do. You never lie, Minjoo.” He responded before taking a deep breath. “This world, after all, is weird…” He muttered. Minjoo giggled, wiping the tear that fell down from her eye. “You believe me, unlike Hyewon…” She snickered.

 

“So, what happened dear? It didn’t go well? I noticed how happy you were these past months but… last night,” He stopped, giving Minjoo a look and the latter continued it for him. “Yeah, for months, that charming spirit made me fall over heels in a short matter of time. She decided to break everything between us yesterday because she thought it wouldn't work. She said she wanted for me to have a normal life, a normal partner…” She continued her story, lips quivering. “It hurts so bad, dad.”

 

Minseung sighed, shaking his head a bit and used his other hand to pat his daughter’s shoulder for comfort and held her hand, driving carefully, still. “This spirit is selfish yet selfless…” He said. “If I ever got a chance to meet her, I don’t know whether to hug her or punch her, maybe both— for making you happy and broken.” He halfheartedly joked which made Minjoo giggle.

 

“But that’s just how life and love is, Joo,” He continued, a small smile forming in his lips. “If you guys are not meant to be, then your story shall reach its end, it’s inevitable. You could always start a new one, a better one. At least, that experience gave you wonderful yet bad memories you could bring into the future.” He added, a small sigh could be heard from him then glanced at his daughter. “And it’s alright to cry and feel hurt, just don’t cry randomly in the middle of the class, my overgrown princess.”

 

Minjoo laughed with that again, wiping her tears and after that, their conversation became light until they reached the school. For the first time since ever, Minjoo kissed her father on the cheek before going inside the school premises, feeling better than usual.

 

The classes ended already before she could even notice, she didn’t even realize the time passed by quickly but her idle thoughts about Yujin made her not notice it. After that, she bid goodbye to Wonyoung and said that she will just talk to her tomorrow about what happened as she wanted some time alone.

 

With that, Minjoo found herself walking around the Han River Park. And when her feet started to ache, she decided to take a seat on the vacant bench and watched the sun set before her, feeling so cold, alone, and empty without Yujin by her side. She already missed her, so bad and she’s slowly accepting the fact they didn’t end up together.

 

She took a deep breath, shaking her thoughts off and collected herself but before she could even do anything, a familiar voice entered her ears.

 

“Minjoo,”

 

The said woman froze, robotically turning to where the voice came from and there stood, Ryujin, looking at her with amused eyes. Minjoo immediately searched for that familiar glint in her eyes but much to her disappointment… there’s none, she didn’t see the universe, which means— Yujin isn’t in her body anymore.

 

“Ryujin.” She weakly called and her childhood friend smiled, showing her signature whisker dimples. “May I take a seat beside you?” She asked, and Minjoo just nodded, scooting on the side to give Ryujin a space to seat on and the latter plopped herself down beside her.

 

They just silently glanced at the setting sun before them, it’s so peaceful but empty, for Minjoo that is. Ryujin is here but it’s not Yujin. God, she should really stop thinking of her now… but what can she do? She’s still yearning for that spirit.

 

She was about to drown into her thoughts again when Ryujin suddenly asked something. “How do you make holy water?” Okay, that was random and Minjoo even gave her friend a weird look but she responded anyway. “How?”

 

Ryujin grinned, “You boil the hell out of it!” She replied confidently which made Minjoo bark into laughter, even smacking Ryujin at her randomness. “God, you are so random.” She said after she calmed down, still grinning while the other woman just stared at her with a small smile. “Well, you look down, I had to do it.” She answered with a shrug, still looking at her.

 

For a while, they became silent, just staring at each other. Ryujin broke that short silence though. “You have a very beautiful smile.” She complimented before averted her gaze, blushing. Minjoo blinked, feeling her heart flip at the familiar compliment and also blushed a bit.

 

She couldn’t help but to smile and stare at Ryujin, eyeing her features as orange hues painted her skin orange, her short hair gently dancing and the wind is the suspect. All in all, for a moment, Minjoo felt content.

 

New story, new chapter— like what just her father said.

 

—

 

2 years after…

 

“Hello, Ryujin? Just where are you?” Minjoo irritatedly grumbled on her phone as she tried to push herself through the crowd, muttering a small ‘sorry’ when she accidentally pushed someone a little bit hard.

 

Ryujin huffed on the other line, replying, “Near the arcade. I will just wait for you, God, why are there a lot of people here?” She suddenly asked and Minjoo snorted, trying her best to dodge people as she dashed through the bookstore located at the mall she’s currently in.

 

“Apparently, a famous celebrity decided to have a shopping trip here. Not like it matters, Wonyoung already texted that she’ll be there. I’ll just drop by the bookstore,” She answered and did a turn, brisk walking towards the bookstore, she could already spot the signboard already. “Ugh, whatever, I’ll just go there.” She heard Ryujin say from the other line but Minjoo did not pay much mind to that.

 

Minjoo then entered the fortunately, not so packed bookstore and immediately went to her desired section, grinning when she spotted a very familiar book cover filling the whole aisle— she could feel her chest puffing out in proudness. She took one of the books, reading the title, ‘Of New Chapters’ by Kim Minseung.

 

Oh, how proud daughter she is. Her father is now successful in his field, he’s now known for his passion. He’s now a very successful author. Minjoo is so happy for him.

 

She went to the counter and as she walked there— she took a picture of the book, sending it to her father to and paid for it. The cashier smiled at her as she handed the receipt, and her change with the book she bought, she smiled back and even bowed politely before turning around and ready to dash to the arcade but unfortunately, she collided with someone.

 

When her gaze landed on the floor, her book was thrown and some unfamiliar books also fell, with an I.D. in a blue lace, creating a not so loud noise. Minjoo gasped at her carelessness. “I’m so sorry!” She apologized, gathering her things and the other things the stranger she collided with most likely owned.

 

“Oh, it’s alright,” A surprisingly nice and soft yet husky voice responded to her, crouching to get her own things. Judging by how soft the voice is, it’s a woman but Minjoo didn’t pay much mind to it, dealing with her own embarrassment. She’s such a clumsy whim.

 

Minjoo managed to pick the I.D. up, unknowingly scanning it and only snapped in reality when the said stanger stood up. “I’m really sorry too.”

 

The raven haired woman immediately stood up, handing the things she got to the stranger. “No, no— it’s entirely my fault, I wasn’t looking—” Minjoo froze when she tilted her chin to see the stranger’s face.

 

Minjoo didn’t understand herself either when she became speechless when she faced the stranger up close.

 

She’s tall yet slim, has broad shoulders, charming aura, long raven hair, proud and pointed nose, bright smile, and her eyes— she owns a pair of sharp yet adorable eyes with honey orbs, and for a moment, Minjoo wanted to drown herself in those.

 

She blinked, a sense of familiarity hitting her but she didn’t pry on it much, fully handing the things and bowed again as a sign of apology. The tall stranger chuckled, too melodic into Minjoo’s ears. “A Kim Minseung fan too, I see.” She said softly, eyeing the lone book that Minjoo is currently holding.

 

“O-Oh, yes!” Minjoo said, awkwardly showing the book with a smile but before either one of them could say or do anything, Ryujin suddenly appeared, approaching Minjoo with a light huff. “There you are! Let’s go.” She said in a hurry, dragging Minjoo by her arm. “W-Wait,” She protested but Ryujin was much stronger.

 

As she got pulled by her friend, she could hear the stranger giggling and somehow, Minjoo’s eyes landed on her once again, seeing her shrink until she couldn’t see her anymore. With a sigh, she yanked her arm away from Ryujin’s hold and glared at her but never said anything, getting too lost into her own thoughts instantly.

 

She recalled the scene where she got the hold of the stranger’s I.D.

 

And somehow, the name of her naturally rolled from Minjoo’s tongue.

 

“Ahn Yujin,” She whispered, her heart fluttering yet shattered once again as she reminisced about something from earlier, enough to make her feel happy yet broken at the same time. She thought she wouldn’t be able to see it again, ever, but today, she once witnessed it again.

 

“I saw the universe in your eyes.”

 

—END—

 

A/N: hello hehe yes, that’s the last part, yes. It’s an open ending :] I decided to leave it as an open instead of giving it bad or happy. I will leave it to y’all what to think :P I could already feel my friends bombing me with messages AHAHHASHDHAD but nonetheless, i hope you guys enjoyed this story as much I enjoyed writing this :D pardon my mistakes too lmaooo~

 

Also to the certain someone who made this all happen, thank you! :] I hope I met your expectation somehow~

 

See you on my next works~! Merry Christmas!!! <3