"I'm in love with you, unnie." 

 

Wendy's voice keeps echoing inside Irene's head. She knows she has to focus and enjoy tonight's event, but for some reason her mind kept replaying what happened earlier at the rooftop. 

 

"I'm in love with you, unnie." 

 

Irene was frozen in place. "W-what?" 

 

Wendy gave a bitter laugh. "I must be really either drunk or crazy for telling you that." 

 

"S-seungwan.." Irene didn't know what to say. Should she ask if Wendy was serious about it? Should she say she's sorry? 

 

"Ugh." Wendy massaged her forehead. "I'm sorry, unnie. I shouldn't have told you that. I'll go now." Not waiting for Irene's answer, Wendy turned her back and started to walk away. 

 

"Wait, Seungwan." Irene sprinted after the girl, but Wendy walked faster, half running. Feeling a bit tipsy and lightheaded, Wendy trips and is about to fall forward. 

 

Seeing this, Irene ran to save Wendy from falling. 

 

But she was a few seconds too late. 

 

Wendy was about to fall down when she felt someone caught her, hugging her in the process. She squinted her eyes and saw Joy looking back at her with concern. 

 

"Are you okay, unnie?" 

 

"Sooyoung," Wendy's voice cracked. "Take me away from here." 

 

Feeling something wet on her sleeve, Joy understood. "Okay. I got you, unnie." 

 

Joy, not letting go of Wendy, looks at Irene from behind Wendy. The oldest girl was staring, or more like glaring at them with her eyebrow raised. 

 

"Unnie," Joy addressed Irene. "I'll take Wendy unnie from here. You should head back downstairs. They're looking for you." 

 

Irene walked towards them. "It's okay. I'll help you with-" 

 

"No." Joy stops Irene. "Uhm, it's okay, unnie. We can manage. I'll ask Seulgi unnie too." 

 

"But-" Irene's eyes never leave Wendy, whose face she can't quite see since the latter is leaning her head on Joy's shoulder. 

 

"It's fine, unnie, really. You're needed downstairs." Joy then helped Wendy to stand straight, one hand on the latter's waist, the other on Wendy's arm. "Let's go, unnie." 

 

Irene clenched her fist, remembering that sight. For a moment, she regretted telling the girls earlier that Wendy was at the rooftop with her. 

 

"Hello? Earth to Joohyun unnie?" 

 

Irene was brought back to reality to see two hands waving in front of her face. 

 

"Oh! Yerim. What are you doing?" 

 

Yeri rolls her eyes. "You're staring into space. I've been calling you for a minute now, unnie."

 

"Oh, uhm, I'm sorry." Irene shakes her head, hoping to shake away her thoughts too. "Why? What is it?" 

 

"What are you doing here on the balcony? It's sort of your party too, you know."

 

"I told Jennie I'll be here. She knows parties and socialising are really not my thing." Irene looks at the party happening inside. "By the way, is it not going to end yet?" 

 

Yeri shrugs. "In another hour, maybe?" 

 

Irene let out a loud tsk. It didn't help that when she looked at her phone, there was no new message or call. I told them to update me and yet, still nothing? Irene thought, pertaining to Joy and Seulgi. 

 

"Unnie?" Yeri noticed Irene's demeanor. "What's wrong?" 

 

Irene looked at the party once more, and made up her mind. "Yeri, I'll go ahead first. I don't want to disturb Jennie so would you just tell her, for me?" 

 

"Where are you going, unnie?" 

 

"I'll check on Seungwan."

 

"But Sooyoung unnie and Seulgi unnie are already with her. Right?" 

 

"Yes, but they haven't messaged me yet."

 

"Uhh.. It's only been 15 minutes since they left, unnie?" 

 

"Is it?" Irene looks at her watch. It is. It felt like a couple of hours had passed though. Irene took a deep breath.

 

"You look so lost, unnie." Yeri commented with a chuckle. "What's bothering you, hm?" 

 

Irene sighs. There are quite a few, to be exact. Irene recalled the flashbacks she had earlier. But more important than that, her mind is on someone else. 

 

"Seungwan." Irene answered before she could stop herself. 

 

"Oh." Yeri had expected that. "Did you two manage to talk on the rooftop before we came?" 

 

Irene nodded. 

 

"And?" 

 

"I'm in love with you, unnie." Irene shakes her head at Wendy's words. "I think Seungwan's drunk." 

 

Yeri understood. There are two things that Wendy unnie might have spilled drunkenly. Yeri thought. One is about Irene's forgotten memory of her, and the second is Wendy's feelings for Irene. Seeing that Irene is not breaking down mentally and physically, Yeri thinks it's the second one. 

 

"Wendy unnie told you of her feelings for you?" 

 

 "Wha- H-how.. How did you guess that?" 

 

Yeri heaved a sigh. "It was not a guess, unnie." 

 

Irene frowns. "Wait. I'm confused." Irene read Yeri's eyes. She swallows a lump in . "It's.. True?" 

 

Yeri's silence answers her question. 

 

"B-but.. But I thought.. I thought she's still in love with her ex-girlfriend?"

 

Yeri didn't answer, yet she gave a sad smile. 

 

"Yerim?" 

 

Yeri shakes her head. "It's best to ask Wendy unnie about that, unnie." She decided to take a  leave first, knowing Irene must have a lot to think about. "I'll leave you for a moment, unnie."

 

Irene didn't answer. Her mind is in turmoil with a sudden realization. 

 

So.. Is that why Seungwan left? Because Jennie proposed to me and I said yes? Irene gulps. 

 

"It hurts so much, unnie." 

 

Irene remembered Wendy's words at the rooftop. The image of Wendy crying flashed through her, and it hurt her too. Irene clenched her fist. 

 

"Is it because of me then?" Irene muttered to herself, unaware of the tears forming in the corner of her eyes. "Seungwan is hurting.. because of me?" 

 

 

**

 

Wendy woke up the next day with a hangover. The moment she opened her eyes, memories of last night all came back- the party, the proposal (and here I thought it was just a bad dream), the rooftop, and Irene. Wendy's eyes widened at that last thought. 

 

"I'm in love with you, unnie." Wendy recalled herself saying. Wendy shut her eyes again and slapped her forehead with her palm. "Ugh!" 

 

Wanting to freshen up, Wendy forced herself to get up. As she opened the door, she was surprised to see someone in the living room, comfortably watching TV. 

 

"Sooyoung?" Wendy remembered Joy and Seulgi bringing her home last night. 

 

Joy turned her head at the call. "Oh, you're awake, unnie!" She walked towards Wendy. 

 

"You stayed the night?" 

 

Joy grinned. "Yeah. And oh, I used the spare room too. I hope you don't mind, unnie." 

 

"No." Wendy shakes her head. "No, I don't mind." 

 

"Great." Joy cheered. "Now, shall we go eat, unnie? I ordered breakfast." 

 

Wendy smiled and nodded, following Joy into the dining area. 

 

Halfway through the breakfast, Wendy decided to talk about the elephant in the room. 

 

"Thank you for last night, Sooyoungie." Wendy started. "It was really a relief that you came." 

 

"Did uh.. Did something happen, unnie?" 

 

Wendy sighs. "I told Joohyun unnie I love her." 

 

Joy had expected that. "What did Joohyun unnie say?" 

 

"I didn't let her say anything. I know what she would say anyway." Wendy chuckles bitterly. "I'm on the middle of walking out when you came." 

 

Joy grips her chopstick. She didn't forget how the Wendy unnie who always comforts her and smiles at her was breaking down yesterday. Joy stayed with Wendy last night for quite a while to make sure that Wendy is okay and even in the latter's sleep, Joy saw tears fall from Wendy's eyes. 

 

"Unnie?" 

 

Wendy looks up at Joy to see the younger girl with a serious expression. "What's wrong?" 

 

"Forget about what I said before." 

 

Wendy was confused. "What do you mean?" 

 

"You- you don't deserve this, unnie. So it's okay, you can give up now." 

 

"I know things are hard. And painful. Especially for you. It's just that- I really think that you two deserve each other. So, please don't give up on Joohyun unnie?" 

 

Wendy remembered Joy's words from before. 

 

"I can't see you hurt like this, unnie." 

 

Wendy gave a soft smile and ruffled Joy's hair. "Thank you, Sooyoungie. But I'm fine." 

 

Joy sighs "You're not giving up, unnie. Are you?" 

 

"That time.. I promised myself too that I will not give up on her." Wendy shook her head. "So, no. Not yet. I can still fight." 

 

Joy shakes her head. "Fine. Guess I just have to fight with you then." 

 

Wendy chuckles at that. "Thanks, Sooyoung-ah." 

 

The next day, however, Wendy realized that fighting for Irene just became so much harder after that night. Irene had stopped going to the university since Jennie's party so Wendy has not seen Irene for three days now. She tried to message and call the older girl but Wendy hasn't received any reply. 

It was only her though. Irene seemed not to be missing out on the rest of the Queens. That's when Wendy realized that Irene is avoiding her. 

Damn. Why did I even confess to her like that? Wendy can only shake her head. I should have really stopped opening my mouth when I'm drunk. 

 

**

 

"Hyun?" 

 

Irene heard a knock on her door. 

 

"Come in."

 

Mr. Bae entered. He observes Irene. "You're not going out today too?" 

 

Irene shakes her head, eyes glued on her book. 

 

"Well, for someone who just got engaged, you seemed a bit.. gloomy." Mr. Bae commented with a chuckle. Since their Sudoku game, their relationship with each other is slowly getting better. 

 

Irene playfully rolled her eyes. "I'm not in the mood to go out, dad. Jennie will be here later instead." 

 

"Okay then." Mr. Bae cleared his throat. "So uh, how about Wendy then? Tell her to visit. I miss that kid." 

 

Irene stopped reading. She forced a smile and nodded to her father. 

 

"You're going back to Japan?" Irene asked, noticing the suit her father is wearing. 

 

"Yeah." 

 

"Okay." Irene gave a small smile. "Take care then." 

 

Mr. Bae nods. "Oh, and Hyun?" 

 

"Hm?" 

 

Mr. Bae scratched the side of his head. "I know it's awkward for us to talk about our problems, especially if it's girl problems. But, you know there's someone to whom you could talk about it. Right?"

 

Irene understood. She nods slowly. 

 

"Okay. I'll see you in a few months then." 

 

Irene nods once more. "See you, dad." 

 

Irene heaved a sigh once her father left. Ever since that night, she couldn't stop thinking about what happened at the rooftop, and she could feel different kinds of emotions building inside her. 

 

One was the flashbacks she had. What was that about? 

 

"Promised me you won't cry again because of me?" 

 

Did I say that to Seungwan? And I said, 'again'. Does that mean I'm the reason she was crying? 

 

No. Irene shakes her head. That can't be. I can't be. 

 

"Why can't you just be honest with me like-" 

 

"-like Jennie? 

 

Ugh! Irene ran her fingers down her hair in frustration. No. That must be a dream. That couldn't have happened in reality. I mean, why would we even argue about Jennie in the first place? 

 

Next, Irene thought of Wendy's confession, and it's making her confused. How? Why? Since when? What about Seungwan''s ex? 

 

Then she thought of how close Joy and Wendy were that night, with Wendy leaning her head on Joy's shoulder, and the younger girl almost practically hugging Wendy. Now there's something in that thought that irks Irene. She doesn't know what it is, but she's not liking it at all. 

 

And then, there's the image of Wendy hurt and crying. It was always the final blow, making Irene crumble. It's as if her heart is being torn, and she doesn't even know why. The only thing she knows is that she never wants to see that again. 

 

Irene wanted to erase that image in her mind so all throughout the day, she busied herself with different things. 

 

It was afternoon and she was reading some business reviews, when someone knocked at her door. Irene frowns. She knows it's still too early for Jennie to be there. 

 

"Who is it?" Irene asked, glancing at the door. 

 

"It's me. Can I come in?" 

 

"Y-yeah. Come in, mom." 

 

Mrs. Bae peeked in before she welcomed herself inside Irene's room. 

 

Irene was surprised by her mother's presence. She thinks it was due to the fact that her mother is now already seeing another man, that's why there's more awkwardness with her than with her father. Nonetheless, Irene knows that both of them are trying to make it up with her, and Irene felt the same. 

 

"So uh, what's with the sudden visit?" 

 

Mrs. Bae sat on the chair in front of the vanity mirror and faced Irene. 

 

"Your dad called." Mrs. Bae answered. "He said that you might be needing some.. girl advice right now." 

 

Irene couldn't help but chuckle at that. "I really can't understand how you and dad can remain civil towards each other." 

 

Mrs. Bae gave a relieved smile. "Well, we have to. Because we have you." A pause. "We're really sorry, Hyun. For everything." 

 

"I think we could move past it already, mom." Irene managed a smile. "Although, maybe you could still give me time to accept the man you are seeing now."

 

Mrs. Bae was almost close to tears. "It's fine, Hyun. And thank you." She then cleared , easing the solemn atmosphere. "So uh.. What was it that your dad told me? What's that about?" 

 

Irene frowns curiously. "What did he tell you?" 

 

"Not a lot." Mrs. Bae answered. "But maybe we could start on why you're avoiding Wendy?" 

 

Irene's eyes widened at that. 

 

"So your dad was right." Mrs. Bae chuckles. "And don't ask me how he knew. You know your father, he knows everything."

 

Mrs. Bae didn't expect that this time would finally come. She, in her daughter's room, talking about the latter's problems. Let alone, it's about Wendy- the girl she hated before. She had the impression that Wendy is a nice girl, but since she thought that Wendy is just a phase for Irene (someone that her daughter is using to forget about Jennie and rebel against them), she never really liked Wendy, more especially when the girl refused to leave Irene alone. 

 

When Irene turned down the marriage with Jennie last year, Mrs. Bae realized that maybe Irene is really serious about Wendy. But that didn't change how she sees Wendy. She still doesn't like the younger girl, more so because Wendy seemed to be bridging Irene and her father. And truth to be told, Mrs. Bae was jealous of that. 

 

Her view of Wendy started to turn a new leaf after she heard her ex-husband and Wendy talking at the hospital garden months ago, when Irene was still hospitalised. How Wendy prioritised Irene's health and feelings before herself, even though Mrs. Bae knows that it would be more painful for Wendy. And she has to admit that she admired how Wendy chose to handle the situation. Instead of telling Irene the truth so she might love her again, Wendy decided to win Irene's love back without revealing anything. For Mrs. Bae, that was really brave and admirable. 

 

However, what made Mrs. Bae accepting of Wendy was during one of her visits to her former house. Wendy courageously invited her into the game, lost the game on purpose, and convinced her to stay. That night, having dinner with her family and tasting her daughter's cooked foods, was her happiest moment. And she knows that she has to thank Wendy for it. 

 

Back to the present, Mrs. Bae cleared . "So? Why are you avoiding her?" 

 

"It's, uh.." Irene paused. This is new to her but she admits it's good to be talking to her mother like this. She decided to spill the beans. "Seungwan- she- she said she has feelings for me."

 

"O-kay. And you're avoiding her because?" 

 

"I already have a girlfriend- a fiance- mom." Irene answered. "I don't want to hurt Seungwan more than I already have." 

 

Mrs. Bae laughs. "So, you think that by avoiding Wendy and not showing yourself to her, that she would forget about her feelings for you?" 

 

Irene ran her fingers through her hair. "I don't know what else to do, mom." 

 

"Well.. How about you talk to her?" 

 

"I-" Irene sighs. "I'm scared, mom." 

 

This made Mrs. Bae frown. "About what?" 

 

"I have Jennie, and were due to get married. I can't return Seungwan's feelings. And I'm-'' Irene clenched her fist. "-I'm so afraid that I'll see her get hurt again, that I'll hurt her again."

 

"Hyun?" Mrs. Bae got curious. "I just have to ask, what do you feel about Wendy?" 

 

"About Seungwan?" Irene paused to think. The images of Wendy smiling at her, singing for her, and hugging her flashed in her mind and unconsciously, it made her smile. "She's a great person, mom. And I feel happy when she's around. Her laughter is like music to the ears. Her voice," Irene smiles dreamily, "oh you got to hear her sing mom, it's like the gates of heaven have opened and an angel appeared. And her hugs- it's just too comforting and.. warm." Irene gets a hand to her chest as she feels the familiar beating of her heart, one that she often feels these days. 

 

"Seungwan is.. such a warm-hearted person, mom." Irene gave a gentle smile, thinking about Wendy. "She's so nice and kind and I love that about her," Irene then bit her lip, "But I hate it how she's always giving way for others, almost sacrificing herself in the process." She sighs. "I hope she realises that her feelings and her wants are just as important as anybody else's. Because I want to see her happy. It hurts me to see her hurt."

 

Irene stopped. She thought about the rooftop and her heart ached. Mrs. Bae's touch on her arm pulled Irene out of her reverie. She looks up to see her mother smiling kindly at her. 

 

"Talk to her, Hyun."

 

"But-"

 

"If you're worried you might hurt her again, don't you think she's not hurting right now?" Mrs. Bae asked, voice soft and calm. "Because if I were her, it would hurt more to see you avoiding me." 

 

"Wha-" Irene almost panicked. "So I- I was just hurting her, again and again?" 

 

"Just talk to her, Hyun." Mrs. Bae answered instead. 

 

With a heavy heart, Irene nods. 

 

"And Hyun?" 

 

Irene looks up, waiting. 

 

"You know that I consider Jennie like my own daughter too, right?" 

 

Irene nods. She felt there was more to it though. 

 

"So I love Jennie too, and it would make me happy to see you two be happily married." Mrs. Bae then hesitated. "But maybe it would help to think again."

 

Irene frowns. "About marrying Jennie? What's there to think about that?" 

 

"Your feelings." 

 

Irene was confused. "My feelings? But I'm sure that I love Jennie." 

 

"I know, Hyun." Mrs. Bae smiled. "But don't just listen to what your mind is telling you." 

 

Irene frowns further. "I- I don't understand." 

 

Just then, Mrs. Bae's phone rang. It was an alarm she set for a meeting today. She put the phone back in her bag, and fixed herself. 

 

"I'm afraid I have to go now. I've got a meeting in a few minutes." 

 

"But mom, what do you mean-" 

 

"It's better if you'll figure it out yourself, Hyun. It'll be meaningful that way." 

 

"Figure what?" 

 

Mrs. Bae gave a soft chuckle. She pats Irene's head. "Talk to Wendy, okay? And, listen to your heart too." 

 

With that, Mrs. Bae left the room. 

 

Irene can only shake her head. "My parents are weird." 

 

**

 

"Unnie!" 

 

Irene's door opened even before she could answer back. Joy strides and jumps into Irene's bed. 

 

Irene removed her eye glasses and looked at Joy. "What are you doing here?" 

 

Joy rolled her eyes. "I should be the one asking you that, unnie. You're not visiting the university anymore. It's been a week, unnie." 

 

"Sooyoung, as you can see, I'm busy." Irene pointed at the papers she's holding. 

 

Joy snatches the papers from Irene's hands. "Business papers?" She frowns. "You still have a couple of months before you go back to the company, unnie. And don't tell me that uncle is asking you to do this. I know he would never do that." 

 

Irene sighs and shakes her head. "And your point is?" 

 

"That you're just keeping yourself busy." Joy answered in a factly manner. 

 

"Why would I do that?" 

 

Joy shrugs and chooses not to answer. Irene knows though, she knows that Joy already knew that she's been hiding in her room to avoid Wendy. 

 

"So, anyway, unnie." Joy clapped her hands once, as if remembering her purpose for barging in. She got something from her bag and handed it to Irene. "Here." 

 

Irene looks at it. It's an entrance ticket to the national choir championship to be held a month from now, after the winter break. 

 

"That's your ticket, unnie. Yerim already got hers."

 

"Wow, it's the championship already?" Irene asked, reading the ticket. 

 

"Yup. Our final competition for this year. So you guys better be there."

 

Irene learned from her friends that before her accident, she was always present during every competition and had missed only one event. Irene asked them why she wasn't there at that one event but she only got a broad answer. "You're busy that time, unnie." was what they told her. Irene frowned at this, wondering how she missed such an important event for her friends. So Irene promised herself that this time around, she would always be there to support them. 

 

Irene smiles. "I promised you guys that I'll always watch and cheer you on, right?" 

 

"Yes, you did." Joy grins. "Oh and one more thing, unnie. I'm here to help you pack your things." 

 

Now this surprised Irene. "What? Pack? What for?" 

 

"We're going to Gangwon-do!" Joy cheered. 

 

"Gangwon-do?? Why??" 

 

"Unnie, have you forgotten? It's time for our traditional winter break vacation." 

 

This tradition started when they got into high-school. Every summer and winter break, the Queens will go somewhere for vacation. 

 

"Well, I- I didn't. But isn't this too soon?" 

 

"Unnie, if you're not just camping here inside your room, then you'll be part of this plan." Joy grins. "And besides, this is the best time. Our competition is in a month so we'll be very busy with practice after this week." 

 

Irene sighs. "Fine. But why in Gangwon-do?" 

 

"Ah, that. Wendy unnie wanted to visit Seonjaryeong mountain, so we'll be staying there, unnie." 

 

"Oh." 

 

Joy didn't miss how Irene's eyes flicker. "It's okay with you, right, unnie? With Wendy unnie going? I mean, I'm sure you'll bring Jennie along too, so this vacation is not solely for the four of us."

 

"Uhm," Irene cleared . "Y-yeah. It's fine." 

 

"That's good." Joy nods. "Besides, it's also a celebration for Wendy unnie." 

 

"Oh?" Irene can't help but be curious. "Why?" 

 

Joy smiles widely. "Wendy unnie passed the final audition for RV entertainment, unnie!" 

 

Irene has never smiled brightly in a week, until now. "Really?" She felt so happy, so proud for Wendy. "That's- that's great, Sooyoung-ah." 

 

"I know, unnie." Joy gave a small smile. "She wants to tell it to you personally as soon as the news arrived, but uhm," Joy stopped at that. "-yeah." 

 

Irene heaved a deep breath. She knows she must really talk to Wendy soon. 

 

And speaking of whom.. 

 

"Sooyoung?" 

 

"Hm?" Joy was reading some papers on Irene's bed and had to look up when she heard the call. "Yes, unnie?" 

 

"Uhh.." Irene hesitated at first, but decided to continue anyway. "Seungwan's ex-girlfriend.. Do you know her?" 

 

There was an obvious surprise on Joy's features. It was only for a few seconds though before Joy regained her composure. "Uhm, yeah. Yes, unnie. Why?" 

 

"O-kay." Irene nodded slowly at the answer. "If that's so, then- uhh.. Do I know her?" 

 

Joy cleared and nodded, but Irene didn't miss how the younger girl's eyes flickered at her question. "Yes. You know her too, unnie." 

 

"Oh. Okay." To be honest, Irene isn't surprised at all. She had somehow expected that. 

 

Joy raised her brow. "Why are you asking, unnie?" 

 

Irene shrugs. "I'm just curious. How come I have never seen her or been introduced to her since the accident?" 

 

Joy observed Irene. "Why? Do you want to meet her, unnie?" 

 

Irene thought there was something with the way Joy held her gaze. The latter is staring at her with a mixture of curiosity, self-restraint, and nervousness. Irene had to frown at this. 

 

"Is there-" She swallowed a lump in . "Is there something that I should know, Sooyoung?" 

 

Joy stared at Irene, hard. After a couple of minutes, she looks away and sighs. 

 

Irene thought that Joy wouldn't answer her so she was about to repeat her question when Joy spoke. 

 

"The question is, unnie," Joy held Irene's gaze once more. "Is there something that you would want to know?" 

 

There is. Irene wanted to say. But the more she looks at Joy, the more she feels scared. Scared of what? Irene couldn't really pinpoint out. So instead, she shakes her head. 

 

"No, nothing. Nevermind."

 

Joy's eyes didn't shy away. "Are you sure, unnie?" 

 

It was Irene who looked away first. "Yeah." 

 

"I see." Joy shrugs and gets off from Irene's bed. "So, I'll get going now, unnie. We still have practice later." 

 

Irene nods absentmindedly. 

 

"Oh, and unnie?" 

 

Irene looks up to Joy. 

 

"Ask me when you're ready for the answers. I'll tell you the truth." 

 

Before Irene could comprehend Joy's words, the younger girl had already left. 

 

"The truth." Irene muttered to herself, her mind at loss. 

 

 

***

 

 

That weekend, their group went on the said trip. It was kind of awkward now for Irene and Wendy, but they still managed to greet and smile at each other casually. Wendy is finding it difficult to talk to Irene though, considering that Jennie is always clinging to the older girl. To Wendy's slight relief, however, she would seldom witness the two being sweet and clingy to each other for Irene and Jennie would always choose to position themselves behind Wendy, like during the car ride, or during the walk towards the cabin where they would be staying. 

 

They arrived at their place at night time and Wendy was amazed to see their cabin. If only it could occupy other guests than them, Wendy would think that it is actually a hotel and not just a simple cabin. 

 

The cabin has two floors. The living room, dining area and kitchen on the first floor and a balcony and three large rooms occupy the second floor. 

 

It was no question that Irene and Jennie would be in one room, so the four other girls decided for themselves who would share a room.

 

"Wendy unnie and I will share a room!" Joy clings to Wendy's arm. 

 

"No!" 

 

All looked in Irene's direction. Even Wendy was surprised and turned to Irene as well. 

 

Irene, on the other hand, cursed silently. She shouted her protest even before she could stop herself. What the hell was that, Bae Joohyun? What was that for? 

 

Realizing her outburst and the eyes on her, Irene's cheeks reddened. She avoided everyone's gaze. "Sooyoung, you-" she cleared . "-you room in with Yerim." 

 

"Why?" Joy and Yeri asked in unison. 

 

"W-well.." Irene stutters, as if she doesn't really know what she was saying. 

 

"Well?" Joy crossed her arms, waiting. 

 

"Uh.." Irene looked elsewhere and her eyes landed on Seulgi who was sitting on the sofa. She clicked her fingers. "Seulgi! Because of Seulgi!" 

 

All eyes then turned to Seulgi. 

 

"Me?" 

 

"Y-yes. Yes, that's right." Irene answered, gaining confidence. "Seulgi's jetlagged. She needs proper rest." She then points to Joy and Yeri. "And she wouldn't be able to sleep well if she's with you two. You kids are noisy. So, you guys just room together."

 

"What?" Yeri laughs. "What kind of reason is that, unnie?" 

 

Irene ignored Yeri's remark. "Whatever. Just do as I say." 

 

"Fine, fine." Joy raised both arms in the air. "Wendy unnie can visit us in our room anytime anyway." She winks at Wendy. "Right, unnie?" 

 

Wendy chuckles. "Of course." 

 

Unconsciously, Irene had to roll her eyes at this. Shaking her head, she told them to go to their respective rooms, unpack, and get enough sleep for they would start their tour activities early in the morning. 

 

Wendy did as they were told. She even helped Seulgi unpacked her things because true enough, the latter is feeling a bit under the weather due to jet lag. Wendy took a bath after and decided to check on Joy and Yeri to say goodnight to them. On the way to the maknaes' room though, Wendy noticed someone's presence on the balcony. 

 

Wendy stopped on her track and contemplated whether to approach the girl or not. Irene seemed to be in deep thought that for a second, Wendy doesn't want to disturb her. But a part of her wanted to talk to Irene. She knew she had some things to clear out. 

 

With a nervous gulp, Wendy walked slowly towards Irene, all the while fidgeting with her fingers. 

 

"Unnie?" 

 

Irene jumped in surprise. 

 

"Oh, I'm sorry, unnie." Wendy apologized quickly. "I didn't mean to startle you." 

 

Regaining back her composure, Irene dismissed Wendy's apology. "It's fine, Seungwan." 

 

An uncomfortable silence ensued. It was awkward for the both of them since it's their first conversation after Jennie's party a week ago. 

 

Wendy took a deep breath, deciding to initiate the talk. After all, she's the one who caused this awkwardness between them. 

 

"Unnie?" 

 

"Y-yeah?" 

 

"Uhm.. About what happened at the rooftop a week ago.." 

 

Irene mildly froze at this. 

 

"Though I regret that it has to be said that way and what it caused us," Wendy swallowed a big lump on . "I- I just want to make it clear to you that- it was not some drunken mistake, unnie. I uhm, I meant what I said." Wendy heaved a deep breath, looking into Irene's eyes. "I love you, unnie."  I love you so much and it hurts that you can't remember us. 

 

Irene clenched her fist. She had expected it. Yeri already told her that, but to hear it from Wendy herself still feels different. 

 

"Seungwan." Irene lowered her head. She doesn't want to see Wendy's expression. "You know I already have Jennie. I- I love her." 

 

Wendy took all the courage she could get not to break down at that. "I know, unnie. And- it's fine." No. It's not fine. It hurts. 

 

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry, Seungwan-ah." Irene said, still refusing to meet Wendy's eyes. 

 

Hiding all the pain inside, Wendy shook her head and forced a laugh. "Why are you sorry, unnie? It's not your fault that you don't feel the same." It's my fault that I wasn't able to protect you during the accident. It's my fault because I wasn't enough to make you love me now. 

 

Irene balled her fist harder. Hearing it from Wendy pricked something in her heart. 

 

"I just don't want you to think that I said that out of pure drunkenness." Wendy continued. "And so I just made it clear." 

 

Irene gave a soft nod. 

 

Wendy sighs seeing Irene's lowered head. 

 

"I shouldn't have said that. I'm sorry, unnie." 

 

"Don't." Hearing Wendy's apology, Irene immediately looks up at the younger girl and instantly regrets it. Wendy had a pained expression on her face, and Irene doesn't want to see that. It is what Irene is worried about- to see Wendy get hurt again. Something in her chest tightens. 

 

Clearing , Irene forced herself to speak. "Don't be sorry, Seungwan-ah. I should be the one to apologize for hurting your feelings."

 

Scratching the back of her head, Wendy gave an awkward laugh. "Can we just forget about this, unnie? I, uh.. I don't want us to get awkward with each other like this." 

 

Irene didn't answer. 

 

"I promise that I wouldn't do anything to discomfort you, unnie. I wouldn't bother you and Jennie and-" 

 

"It's not that that I'm worried about, Seungwan." Irene interrupted with a firm tone. "I don't care about any of that." 

 

Wendy raised her eyebrow. 

 

Irene heaved a sigh. "How can I pretend that everything is okay when I know you're hurting, Seungwan-ah?" 

 

Wendy was caught off guard for a moment. Knowing that Irene is thinking about her feelings made her feel a little lighter, and this was enough to make Wendy smile. 

 

"Thank you for considering my feelings, unnie." Wendy managed to say. "But to be honest," she gave a shy grin. "It would hurt more if you're avoiding me." 

 

Irene instantly felt guilty. She reached out to hold Wendy's arm. "I'm sorry, Seungwan. I thought that would be better for you. I'm sorry." 

 

Wendy smiles and shakes her head. "It's okay, unnie. So uh," Wendy extended her arm for a handshake. "I hope it's still possible for us to be friends?" Because it would hurt more to not have you in my life. 

 

Irene returned the handshake and the smile. "I like that." I think I won't be able to avoid you for too long anyway. 

 

***

 

Though still with little awkwardness, Irene and Wendy were back on being close again. They would talk and laugh with each other, and they are the one often in charge of cooking meals for the group during their vacation. 

 

For two days, they went to two different snow festivals in town. All has been going well and fun for all of them but on their third day, Irene was not having any of it. 

 

It started during the morning when they decided to ride a cable car to oversee the beautiful scenery of Gangwon-do in the snow. Irene is afraid of heights so she really didn't want to go. As the cable car opened and some of the girls already went in, Irene stayed rooted at her place. 

 

"Hyun, come on." Jennie stood beside Irene and took the girl's hand. "I'll hold your hand." 

 

Still, Irene was feeling scared. "But it's so high, Jen." 

 

On her other side, someone lightly bumped her on the shoulder, making her turn to the culprit. It was Wendy, who was smiling brightly at her. 

 

"You'll be fine, unnie." Wendy whispered, but enough for Irene to hear. "I promise." 

 

Irene doesn't know what it is with Wendy's words but she finds herself believing Wendy. And she felt safe. Just like that time in the amusement park. 

 

Unconsciously, Irene lifts her hand to hold on Wendy's arm when someone hugs Wendy from behind, pushing the latter into the cable car and leaving Irene's hand in the air. 

 

"I'll cling to you like this, unnie." Joy laughs, still back hugging Wendy. 

 

Irene raised her eyebrow at the scene and clenched her fist. Needless to say, Irene has been in a bad mood since then. 

 

 

"Who the- Yah!" Irene shouted as her face was covered by a snowball. 

 

"Oops, sorry unnie. My hands slipped." Yeri said, grinning.

 

Wendy and the Queens (minus Irene) were playing at the snow ground, running and throwing snowballs at each other. Irene was on a far away bench, not in the mood to join them. Jennie stayed beside her and to Irene's relief, her girlfriend didn't question her bad mood. Irene doesn't know how to explain it either. So the two were sitting side by side, just watching the girls when Yeri decided to interrupt them by throwing a snowball to Irene. 

 

"How can it slip from your hand?" Irene asked, rolling her eyes. 

 

"And how come the two of you are just sitting there?" Yeri changes the topic. 

 

"Whatever, Kim Yerim. Go back to playing. Shoo shoo." 

 

"You guys are boring." Yeri complained. "Look at them having fun!" She pointed at Seulgi, Wendy, and Joy. The three are chasing each other like kids. 

 

Irene turned her head to them in time to see Joy tripped on the snow. Seulgi and Wendy were laughing hard but Irene's eyes were trained on Wendy. Seeing her laugh like that brings a smile to Irene's face. 

 

"See? It's fun. Right, unnie?" Yeri pointed at Irene. "You're smiling." 

 

Before Irene could deny it, they heard Seulgi's call. 

 

"Guys! Let's try these sleds!" 

 

Irene looked at the three's direction once more and each of them was holding onto a wooden sled. 

 

"C' mon!" Seulgi called once more, waving her hand in the air. 

 

"Oh, that looks fun. I'm in, I'm in." Yeri shouted back. She turned to Irene and Jennie once more. "And you two? Don't tell me you'll just sit here until we're done playing?" 

 

Irene had to roll her eyes. She waves the back of her hand, dismissing Yeri. The youngest girl huffs before turning away from them. 

 

Irene then glanced at the girl beside her and saw that Jennie is also looking at the sleds with glint in her eyes. 

 

"You want to try that?" Irene asked. 

 

"Can we, Hyun?" Jennie asked back, and Irene felt bad. Because of her sudden mood change, Jennie was not enjoying it too. 

 

Giving out a smile, Irene took Jennie's hand. "Of course. Let's go." 

 

"Oh, finally!" Joy exclaimed when Irene and Jennie joined them. "We're starting to think you're already a frozen statue."

 

Yeri joined the laughing Joy while Irene could only shake her head. 

 

"How are we doing this anyway?" Irene asked, changing the topic. 

 

"We'll race of course." Yeri pronounced excitedly. 

 

Since there were only three sleds, they grouped themselves into three. 

 

"Okay, I call dibs on Wendy unnie!" Joy pulled Wendy into one of the sleds. 

 

"What? So that leaves me with Seulgi unnie?" Yeri complained. "We'll lose for sure!" 

 

"Yah! And what do you mean by that?" Seulgi pouts. 

 

"Nothing, nothing." Yeri shrugs her shoulders and positions herself on the sled, gesturing for Seulgi to do the same. "C'mon, unnie."

 

Soon, the six of them were in position. Irene and Jennie on the right, Wendy and Joy in the middle, while Seulgi and Yeri on the left. 

 

"Okay, see that tree over there?" Joy pointed at the lone tree in the middle of the snow. "First to reach that is the winner. Losers will pay for our dinner!" 

 

Irene turned to Joy as the younger girl gave instructions, and she couldn't help but frown. Wendy was the one at the front and Joy was leaning close to her back. Joy's chin was resting on Wendy's shoulder and her arms were wrapped tight on Wendy's waist. 

 

Isn't that too close? Irene thought to herself, an eyebrow raised. That's completely unnecessary. Seungwan won't be able to move well. 

 

However, as Irene looks at Wendy, the younger girl seems not to mind Joy's clinginess. Wendy was even giggling at whatever Joy was saying. 

 

Oh, whatever. She seems to be enjoying it anyway. Irene scoffed because for some reason, it pissed her off. 

 

"On your mark!" 

 

"Hyun?" Jennie's voice from her back caught Irene's attention. "You okay? We're gonna start." 

 

"Oh, uh, yeah." Irene patted Jennie's hand. "Let's do this." 

 

"Go!" 

 

At Yeri's remark, the three pairs skid to the snow. As expected, Irene and Jennie were the most stable one as Irene knows how to control the reign. Seulgi and Yeri's sled stopped midway, and both of them didn't know how to keep it from going. Wendy and Joy started well too, thanks to Joy, but when they reached the steep part of the hill, they lost control of the sled and much to the other team's laughter, Wendy and Joy's sled kept circling in different directions. 

 

"We're first!" Jennie exclaimed as their sled reached the finish line without much difficulties. Irene gave her a high-five. 

 

"Yah, yah, yah! Sooyoung-ah, Wendy! Watch out!" Seulgi's shout made the two winners turn their heads in time to see Wendy and Joy's sleds hit a tree on the side, making them covered with the snow from the tree leaves. 

 

"Yah, are you guys okay?" Irene half ran towards the two.

 

"We're fine, unnie." Joy answered as she got back on her feet and helped Wendy to do the same. 

 

"That was.. fun." Wendy laughs. 

 

Irene raised her hand to remove the snow from Wendy's hair but Joy was faster. 

 

"Unnie! You look like Olaf!" Joy teased as she cleans up Wendy's hair, oblivious to what Irene was about to do. 

 

"Yah!" Wendy pouts at Joy. 

 

"But Olaf is cute, unnie!" Joy answered, cupping both of Wendy's cheeks. "Just like you." 

 

That was the last thing Irene heard. She didn't wait for Wendy's reply before she walked away from the scene with a snarl. 

 

"Unnie, where are you going?" Seulgi called. 

 

"I'm going back." 

 

"But we're not yet done-" 

 

"You guys continue." Irene answered. "I'm done here. I'm going back." 

 

Seulgi and Yeri looked at each other at Irene's sudden mood change. Even Wendy and Joy who heard Seulgi's call to Irene looked up to the leader of the Queens. 

 

"What happened?" Wendy asked Joy. 

 

Joy merely shrugs and shakes her head. 

 

Concerned, Wendy was about to follow Irene but Joy stopped her. Joy gestures towards Jennie who was already following Irene back to the cabin. 

 

Wendy saw this and can only sigh. 

 

**

 

"Hyun? Are you okay?" Jennie asked once the two of them were in their room. 

 

"I'm fine." Irene forced a smile and dismissed Jennie's concern. "It's just too cold out there. I'm just gonna take a hot shower. Hm?" 

 

Jennie nodded and watched as Irene disappeared into the bathroom. 

 

Irene went straight to the bathtub once the water was warm enough for her. 

 

"What's wrong with me?" Irene asked herself. "Why does it affect me so much?" 

 

Irene knew what caused it. She knows that her mood first turned differently during their ride at the cable car, particularly when Joy back hugged and clinged to Wendy. Then just earlier, her bad mood was triggered when she saw Wendy and Joy laughing with each other and how the younger girl got too close with Wendy, even cupping her cheeks and calling her cute. 

 

Is she flirting? Irene thought, rolling her eyes. 

 

Irene doesn't understand why it bothers her so much. If Wendy and Joy were flirting with each other, then why does she care?

 

"She didn't even follow me when I walked out." Irene pouts, thinking how Wendy stayed beside Joy. 

 

"And she has the guts to tell me she loves me?" Irene scoffs. "Yet she's flirting with Sooyoung? Ugh!" 

 

Irene thought that it was the reason why it's affecting her. Seungwan told me she loves me but she's all around Sooyoung, letting Sooyoung flirt with her like that. I mean, that doesn't make sense. 

 

"Ugh!" Irene exclaimed in frustration. "Whatever. See if I care." 

 

***

 

Irene stayed in her room and didn't go down for dinner that night. 

 

"Is she okay?" Wendy asked, particularly on Jennie. "Can I- uh, can I see her?" 

 

Beside her, Joy scoffed. "It's ironic, don't you think, unnie? You're the real girlfriend but you're the one asking permission if you can see her." 

 

Jennie didn't answer. 

 

"Sooyoung.." Wendy shook her head. She doesn't want a fight to happen. Fortunately, it seems like she's on the same page with Jennie. 

 

"You can." Jennie answered Wendy's question instead. "I'm just not sure if she'll open up. She said she didn't want to be disturbed so.." 

 

Thinking that Jennie was only making an excuse, Joy shakes her head. "Whatever. I'll go to my room." 

 

"Uh, sorry about that." Wendy rubs the back of her head. 

 

"It's okay." Jennie gave a small smile. "I know it sounded like an excuse, but-" 

 

"I believe you." Wendy cut her off. "I guess I'll just check on unnie tomorrow." 

 

Jennie nods. 

 

They decided to call it a day after dinner and when Wendy was about to change into her pajamas, her eyes widened, hands searching her body. She immediately went downstairs to check every corner of the cabin, but to no avail. She went back to their bedroom to do the same but she still can't find it. 

 

"Wendy?" Seulgi, who just went out of the bathroom, noticed the other girl's gesture. "What's wrong? Are you looking for something?" 

 

"M-my necklace." Wendy answered, panic rising. "I- I can't find it." 

 

"Necklace?" 

 

"The one Joohyun unnie gave me. I- it's missing." 

 

"Have you searched the cabin?" 

 

Wendy nods. "It's not here." She immediately grabbed a sweater and gloves. 

 

"Wait. Where are you going?" 

 

"I'll go outside to look for it. It must have been dropped earlier." 

 

"Wait." Seulgi held Wendy's arm. "Right now? It's late, Wendy-ah." 

 

"B-but.. I can't wait till morning, Seulgi-yah. The more I prolong it, the slimmer the chance I get to find it." 

 

"But Wendy-" 

 

"Please, Seulgi-yah. It's very important to me." Wendy was desperate. "After everything that's happened, it's- it's the only thing I'm holding on to, to remind me that Joohyun unnie loved me, that it's real and not just a dream." Wendy can feel tears b in her eyes. She shakes away the tears immediately. It's not the time for this. 

 

"I can't lose it, Seul. Please." 

 

Seulgi can see fear and desperation in Wendy's eyes. Feeling bad for the girl, Seulgi nodded. 

 

"Fine. But I'll come with you" 

 

"What? No! I don't want to dis-" 

 

"We'll find it easier if there's two of us." 

 

"But-" 

 

"That, or I won't let you leave." 

 

Having no other choice, Wendy agreed. After quickly informing Joy who was on the verge of falling asleep again, the two same aged friends went out in the middle of the night to look for Wendy's necklace. 

 

 

**

 

Joy woke up at dawn because of the sudden need to use the bathroom. After her bathroom break, she was about to doze off again when she recalled being awakened up by Seulgi and Wendy, saying that they will go out for a while. 

 

Ah, it must be a dream. Why would they even go out at night? 

 

Joy was ready to close her eyes but the image of her two unnies knocking at their door replayed in her mind. "Oh, it looks real though?" 

 

A bit bothered by it, Joy went out to check Wendy and Seulgi's room. When no one answered her knock, Joy opened the door slowly and found the room empty. She frowns. Wait. So that was real? 

 

Just then, Joy's eyes widened at the more important question. She looked at her wristwatch and saw that it's nearly three in the morning. "Where are they and why are they not yet back?" 

 

Joy runs back to their room and wakes Yeri up. 

 

"Unnie." Yeri groans. "What's your problem?" 

 

"This is an emergency, Kim Yerim." Joy pulled out Yeri's blanket, eliciting more groans from the younger girl. 

 

"What?" Yeri glared. 

 

"Seulgi and Wendy unnie.. They- they're not in their rooms!" 

 

"So? They're maybe downstairs." 

 

"All the lights in the cabin are out." Joy answered. "And I think they knocked on our door before they left. I don't know what time it is though. They mentioned going out, but I'm too sleepy to care. I thought it was just a dream but when I checked on them, they're not here." 

 

This caught Yeri's attention. "Wait. So- where are they now?" 

 

"That's the problem! I don't know. I can't even reach their phones."

 

Yeri gasps. "They're missing?" 

 

"What? W-well, I don't know if that's the right term to-" 

 

"Oh my God, we have to tell Joohyun unnie!" Yeri rushed out of the room. 

 

"-describe that." Joy rolled her eyes. 

 

"What?! What do you mean they're missing?!" Irene exclaimed after Yeri barged into their room and explained what was happening. 

 

"They went out last night, unnie. And now, they still haven't come back!" Yeri answered. 

 

Irene turned to Joy who just entered their room. Joy nodded, confirming Yeri's story. 

 

Irene felt a sudden jolt of worry and fear. She immediately got off the bed and looked for a jacket. 

 

"Sooyoung, call the cabin manager. Ask them for assistance."

 

"Hyun, wait. Where are you going?" 

 

"I'll look for them." 

 

"I'll come with you, unnie." 

 

"Stay here with Yerim, Sooyoung."

 

"But-"

 

"No buts-" 

 

"Hyun, why don't we just wait for the assistance? They know better about this place." 

 

"No. I just can't wait here." Irene made her way downstairs where the three girls followed her. 

 

"But it's dangerous, Hyun."

 

"That's why I won't just wait here." The thought of something bad happening to Wendy and Seulgi scares Irene so much. 

 

"But-" 

 

Jennie was interrupted when they heard an unlocking of the door. All eyes turned to the front door. 

 

The door was opened carefully and slowly. Irene stood in front of the girls, thinking that it may be some robber or bad guys judging with how the door was being opened as if trying not to make any sound. 

 

However, it was like a torn was pulled out from Irene's heart as she saw Seulgi and Wendy coming in carefully. Relief washed over her face, before her mind registered what's happening. 

 

"Yah! You two!" 

 

Wendy and Seulgi both jumped at the shout. They turned to see Irene glaring at them. 

 

"Where have you been?!" 

 

"Uh-oh." Seulgi muttered under her breath. 

 

"Seulgi unnie? Wendy unnie?" Joy called from Irene's back, and immediately ran to hug the two. "We're so worried. We thought you're missing!" 

 

"Sorry, Sooyoung-ah." Wendy pats Joy's head. 

 

Joy shakes her head and hugs Wendy. "It's okay, unnie. I'm just glad you're both safe." 

 

Irene cleared . 

 

"Oh, you guys are so dead." Joy whispered, letting go of the hug. 

 

"So where have you been?" Irene asked, her tone dangerous. 

 

"Uhm. I'm sorry, unnie. It's my fault." Wendy steps forward. "I lost something so I went out to look for it. Seulgi just helped me." 

 

"In the snow? At night? Do you know what could happen to both of you out there?" Irene asked sternly. "What's that important thing you lost that you have to risk your lives just to find it?" I was so afraid at the thought of something bad happening to you. 

 

"Unnie, we're okay." Seulgi chipped in. 

 

"You could have been not! Why are you guys so reckless!" 

 

"I'm sorry, unnie." Wendy lowered her head. 

 

"So, what did you lose, huh?" Irene asked once more. She wanted to know what is so important for Wendy to be so careless like that. 

 

"I.." Wendy looks at the necklace in her hand. She and Seulgi managed to find it after almost four hours. 

 

Irene follows her line of sight. In Wendy's hand, she can see a silver chain. Irene had only seen it once but she knows she couldn't be mistaken. 

 

The necklace that her ex girlfriend gave her? Irene thought. She can feel anger creeping in. 

 

"You've got to be kidding me, Son Seungwan." Irene commented with a scoff. 

 

"Unnie." Yeri didn't miss Irene's tone. 

 

"You endangered your lives for just that?" Irene continued, ignoring Yeri's silent call. 

 

"This is important for me, unnie." Wendy answered, looking straight into Irene. 

 

"Yeah?" Irene didn't back down. "Well, if you're that still hooked up with your ex, then why don't you just run to her instead of spitting some lies?" 

 

"What?" Wendy had to raise her eyebrow. 

 

"Hyun.." Jennie held Irene's arm. "Stop." 

 

"Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about, Seungwan." 

 

"Unnie, stop it." Joy stands in front of Wendy as if shielding the older girl. However, this angered Irene more. 

 

"You tell one girl you love her. Then you flirt with another girl." Irene clenched her fist. "But the truth is after all this time, you're still in love with your ex." 

 

"You don't know what you're talking about, unnie. Stop it." Joy warned. 

 

"I know that I've been fooled." Irene answered back. She told me she's in love with me! 

 

Seeing that Wendy is still in love with her ex-girlfriend angers Irene. She felt that Wendy lied to her and made her feel like a fool. But more importantly, she felt as if she's.. jealous. She's jealous of how Wendy loves her ex-girlfriend. 

 

However, before she can even contemplate on why she is feeling jealous, her anger got the best of her. 

 

"Maybe that's why she broke up with you." Irene knew she had to stop, but didn't. "Because you're a liar." 

 

"Unnie!" 

 

Irene ignored Joy's glare. Her eyes were fixed on Wendy. 

 

"I didn't lie." Wendy answered softly, fist clenched. "I meant what I said." 

 

"Oh. So what is this now? You're in love with two people at the same time?" Irene scoffed. 

 

Wendy didn't answer. She clenched her fist harder. 

 

"That's pathetic, Seungwan." 

 

Irene turned her back and started walking away, not until Joy's words stopped her. 

 

"It's you, unnie! Damn it!" 

 

Irene heard Joy and stopped. She turned to where Joy was and raised her eyebrow. 

 

"What?" 

 

"Hyun, let's just go-" 

 

Irene raised a hand in front of Jennie, stopping the latter. Her eyes were on Joy. 

 

"What did you say?" 

 

"Sooyoung.." Wendy whispered, holding Joy's arm. "Don't." 

 

"I am what?" Irene asked once more, feeling the fast beating of her heart. 

 

From Irene's right, Yeri heaved a deep breath. "Wendy unnie's ex-girlfriend-" 

 

"Yerim." Wendy shakes her head at Yeri. 

 

"-it's you, unnie." 

 

Wendy bit her lip. 

 

"What? What are you talking about?" Irene knows for sure she heard wrong. She turned to Seulgi. "What are they talking about?" 

 

"Hyun.." Jennie was tugging at Irene's arm. She's worried that the truth will finally be out. "Let's go." 

 

But Irene didn't make a move. 

 

"Seulgi." 

 

Seulgi heaved a sigh. "Wendy is not your ex-girlfriend, unnie." A pause. "Because technically, you two didn't break up."

 

Irene frowns. Jennie's hold on her arm loosened. 

 

"You-" Seulgi sighs. "-you have forgotten who she is in your life after your accident, unnie." 

 

"That's-" Irene gulps. Her heart was beating so fast against her ribcage. "That's not true." She shakes her head and feels a headache come. "No. That's not true." 

 

Irene turned to the girl beside her. "Jennie?" Please tell me it's not true. 

 

Jennie lowered her head. 

 

Seeing that Jennie won't answer her, Irene looks at the last girl who can tell her the truth. 

 

"Seungwan? It's not true, right?" Irene was pleading. I couldn't have done that. I couldn't have possibly hurt you like that. 

 

Wendy held Irene's gaze. 

 

"Seungwan, please."

 

Wendy can feel Irene's pain. She doesn't want that. 

 

Closing her eyes, Wendy nods her head. "It's not-" 

 

However, before Wendy could answer, Joy snatched the necklace on her fist. 

 

"Sooyoung-" 

 

"Stop doing this to yourself, unnie. Enough of this." Joy smiled sadly to Wendy before she walked to Irene, with Wendy's necklace in her hand.

 

Joy stopped in front of Irene who was obviously confused, at loss, and in pain. Joy felt  bad for her unnie but she knows it's time to tell the truth. 

 

"It's true that Wendy unnie is still in love with her ex-girlfriend." Joy started, looking gently at Irene. "But she didn't lie when she told you she loves you, unnie." 

 

Joy takes Irene's palm and places Wendy's necklace in it. It's a love necklace, where two rings are intertwined. 

 

"This is what you've wanted to know that day, right, unnie? But you were not ready. You're scared to know the truth."

 

Irene didn't answer, too stunned to say anything. 

 

"But I think it's time you know now, unnie." Joy continued. "Wendy unnie has only loved one girl in her life. And it's you, unnie." 

 

Irene gulps. She looks up at Joy and the latter gestured for her to look closely at the rings. And so, Irene did. 

 

With a shaking hand, Irene picked up the pendant close to her eyes and her heart paced. Engraved in one of the rings are the words "Joohyun loves Seungwan", while the other ring has the word "Forever" in it. 

 

Joohyun loves Seungwan. Forever. 

 

With that, Irene's tears finally fall. 

 

And her heart breaks.