The Dialects of Quality Time: Part 2

Shuhua had big plans. But those big plans did not include Yuqi hogging Soojin for two hours. 

“She had one job.” She grumbled under her breath. Her footsteps were heavy. The dogs danced ahead, fighting playfully, while Soojin restrained the mirth that threatened to split her cheeks. 

“Shuhua?”

“One!”

It was late, and only Soojin, Haku and Mata were privy to the outburst. 

“Shu?” Soojin bit her lower lip. Delicately, she tugged on the fabric of Shuhua’s coat, capturing her attention immediately.

“Hm?” Despite the late hour, the ire in Shuhua’s eyes was unmistakable. 

“Hi.” 

The anger in her bones deflated. “Hi.” Her cheeks were pink and her tone bashful.

“Would you like to tell me what you have planned?” 

“No,” the black locks swished back and forth. Ahead, Haku barked twice before turning to barrel towards them. “Let’s ughh—” the ball of fluff flung himself into her leg, “—walk.”

The night was cool, but nothing brazen enough to require thicker jackets or lined boots. Unlike the hum of the day, the evening was quiet, punctuated only by the occasional car that drove by. 

“And when we’re done walking?”

Shuhua straightened her shoulders. The expression in her eyes was serious yet marred by an underlying playfulness. “Surprise.” Snagging Soojin’s hand from her side, Shuhua directed, “How was your day?”

“It…” the words trailed off.