She walked down the street and breathed in the cold morning air and smiled at the familiarity of it all.

 

There is a market on weekdays, selling every fruit and vegetable known to man. Feet walking in the crowded street, vendors yelling over each other from their booths at the street market, cars honking in the distance. 

 

Jung Wheein spent days and years in a small village in Jeonju. She stays in an apartment that she and her ex-girlfriend bought together before she left her for one of their best friends. And now, she has the place with her friend, Seulgi.

 

Living with Seulgi had turned out to be easier than she anticipated, mainly because she always minded her own business. Seulgi is a painter, so when she was in the mood to work, she will lock herself in her room. It didn’t bother Wheein that much, as long as she knows her friend is alright. And also she was glad that she got to have the place to herself more often than not.

 

Most of her days were spent in Magnolia Vinyl, anyway. When she realized that she wouldn’t survive living off her mother’s early inheritance for the rest of her life, Wheein opened her own business. The record store has a very limited collection of local artists’ music and some foreign stuff she can acquire in town. It is a fairly small shop, slightly chaotic, records everywhere, with little secret bits round corners with even more records.

 

Wheein arrived in her shop and she could not help but smile. Once inside, she was greeted by the sight of her sole employee, Sooyoung or Joy, to some people, who didn’t really live up to her nickname. She was standing gloomily behind the desk.

 

“Classic. Absolutely, classic. Our profit from monthly sales pushed down 20% from last month.” Sooyoung announced, heaving a sigh.

 

“Shall we get coffee? Just to ease the pain?” Wheein suggested.

 

“Yes. But, Unnie, please pay for mine? I am not getting paid enough for this.”

 

“Alright, alright,” Wheein laughed. “You better not mess up my order this time.”

 

“I won’t.” Sooyoung grinned at her success and Wheein couldn’t help but smile back, though rolling her eyes. “And, maybe add a croissant?”

 

“Just go, already.”

 

Sooyoung mockingly salutes and bolts out of the door. 

 

Wheein had a quick walk around to the shop and then proceeded to settle on her usual spot, a comfortable chair behind the counter that let her keep an eye on the shop's entrance while she read through her book of the day. It was only a few seconds later that the door of the shop opened again.

 

She couldn’t help but rub the frown on her face.

 

“Yes! You can have your bloody croissant, too.”

 

There was a pause.

 

“I’m sorry. Are you not open?”

 

Wheein looked up and immediately noticed it was not Sooyoung standing on the shop’s entrance. It is Solar Kim, the biggest movie star in South Korea. She was wearing a white-shirt tucked in blue faded jeans with a leather jacket draped on her shoulders and although her face was half-hidden by sunglasses— Wheein can easily recognize her. Despite the plain clothes, she dons it so casually with an air of confidence and self-assurance.

 

“We are! Sorry. Welcome. Can I help you?” Wheein said, after she snapped out of it, a little more enthusiastic than she intended. It earned a tilt of the head and surely a strange look from the actress.

 

“No, thanks. I’ll just look around.” Solar said as she slowly wanders all the way into the store, putting her sunglasses over her head to browse through the shelves. 

 

Wheein pretended to read the book but cannot help but glance at the actress from time to time. Solar picked a hideous record.

 

“That record’s really not good— “ Wheein started. “— just in case, you know, browsing turns into buying. You’d be wasting your money.”

 

The actress turned to meet Wheein’s eyes. “Really?”

 

“Yes.” Wheein picked up another record on the counter. “This one though is… very good. I’ve been to one of their gigs, and they were pretty solid. I mean, not to be that shop owner who won’t let the customer shop in peace or to imply that we have the same taste in music or something… “

 

Solar regarded her strangely, her lip quirked ever so slightly. She returned the record back on the shelf. “Thanks. I’ll think about it.”

 

Wheein suddenly noticed something odd on the cctv monitor beside her. “If you could just give me a second.” 

 

She got up from her chair. Wheein can feel the actress’ eyes following as she walked towards one corner of the shop and found a man acting innocent as if she just didn’t catch him stealing.

 

“Excuse me,” Wheein said.

 

“Y— yes?” The man stuttered a bit.

 

“Bad news.”

 

“What?”

 

Wheein gestured towards the cctv camera at the top of the shelves. “We’ve got a security camera in this part of the shop.”

 

“So?”

 

“So, I saw you put a record in your jacket.”

 

The man shrugged. “What record?”

 

“The one in your jacket.”

 

“I haven’t got a record in my jacket?” The man said, unsure.

 

“Right, well, then we have something of an impasse” Wheein sighed. “I tell you what— “ she ran her hand through her hair. “— I’ll call the police. And if I’m wrong about the whole record-in-your-jacket scenario, I really apologize.”

 

“Okay— “ The man said, raising his chin up. “— what if I did have a record in my jacket.”

 

“Well, ideally, when I went back to my desk, you’d remove R.E.M.’s record from your jacket, and either wipe the sweat off and put it back, or buy it. See you in a sec.”

 

Wheein returned to her desk. In the cctv monitor, she watched as the man pulled out the record from his jacket and put it back on the shelf. He walked towards the door. The actress, who seemed to be observing the whole interaction, wandered in front of Wheein.

 

“Sorry about that… “ Wheein trailed off.

 

“No, that’s fine.” Solar said, studying Wheein as she briefly waved at the place. “I was going to steal one myself but now I’ve changed my mind.”

 

“If you are planning to steal one. There’s a signed record from somewhere in here. I bet it would cost a fortune.”

 

“You’re not really good at your job, are you?”

 

Wheein looked a little startled, but the actress continued before she could reply.

 

“First, you kept me from buying a record. And now, you are trying to help me, a potential record-thief.” Solar said, there was an amusement in her voice.

 

“Well, I don’t want to leave my customer unsatisfied.” 

 

The actress smiled at that as she leaned over to Wheein. They were interrupted when the man earlier approached them and cleared , catching both their attention.

 

“Excuse me,” the man said, facing Solar.

 

“Yes?” The actress asked, there was a fake enthusiasm present in her voice.

 

“Can I have your autograph?”

 

“What’s your name?”

 

“Jinyoung,” the man said as he put out a paper that looked like a receipt and grabbed a ball pen lying on Wheein’s desk.

 

Solar signed on the piece of paper. The man frowned, trying to read what was written.

 

“What does it say?”

 

“That’s a signature.” The actress pointed at the paper. “And above, it says ‘Dear Jinyoung, you belong in jail.’”

 

“Nice one,” the man chuckled. “Would you like my phone number?”

 

“Tempting… “ Solar trailed off, placing one hand under her chin as if she was seriously considering it. “But no, thank you.”

 

The man left immediately after that, leaving Wheein and the actress.

 

“I think I will try this one.” Solar said, handing Wheein the record she said that was not good earlier.

 

“Oh, right! On second thought maybe this wasn’t that bad. Actually, you might find it sort of a masterpiece really.” Wheein rambles as she handles the transaction. “Everything is diverse, anyway. Same with our taste in music.” She continued, putting in the record she recommended earlier. “And I’ll throw this in for free. Very useful when you’re stressed, just screaming at the top of your lungs, that sort of thing.”

 

“Thanks,” Solar looks at her with a slight smile, leaving the money for her record on the counter.

 

And with that, the actress is out of Wheein’s life forever. She stared at the door for a few moments, a little dazed. She kept glancing at it until Sooyoung walked back in, balancing two cups and a paper bag in her hands.

 

“Order for Jung Wheein-ssi.” 

 

“Thanks.” Wheein said, taking the cup of coffee from Sooyoung. “I don’t think you’ll believe who was just in here.“

 

“Who? Someone famous?”

 

“No,” but Wheein’s innate discretion takes over. “No one— No one.”

 

Wheein was about to take a sip from the drink, but she smelled something wrong. She opened the cup and confirmed her suspicion. Sooyoung saw her and was horrified.

 

“This is tea.”

 

“I swear, I ordered coffee! Maybe I picked up the wrong one.”

 

“That’s okay,” Wheein said, shrugging. “I’ll just go and see if they can switch it.”

 

Sooyoung gave her an apologetic smile, she chuckled as she walked out the door. Wheein turned the corner of the coffee shop and bumped into something. Or someone. The someone that shrieked in horror when the content of Wheein’s cup splashed into their shirt.

 

“Oh, Jesus!”

 

“I’m so sorry— “ Wheein cut herself off as she recognized the actress from earlier. She somehow felt even worse that it was her. “Here, let me help.” She grabbed some paper napkins and started to clean it off, getting fat too near Solar’s chest in the panic of it.

 

“What are you doing?!”

 

“Nothing, nothing… “ Wheein jumps back. “Look, I live just a few blocks from here. You could get cleaned up.”

 

Solar raised her eyebrow at her as she uselessly tried to clean up her ruined white shirt. “No, thank you. I need my car back.”

 

“I also have a closet full of clean shirts. I’m confident that in five minutes you won’t feel all sticky and wet… “ In her diffident way, Wheein was sort of confident. “… but not that you look dirty or something.”

 

“Okay,” the actress said, as she turned and looked at Wheein. “So what does ‘a few blocks’ mean? Give the specifics to me.”

 

“Seven blocks,” Wheein pointed at a blue door. She doesn’t lie, it was really seven blocks away. “That’s my apartment there.”

 

Solar looked at the door, and then her shirt and finally at Wheein.

 

-

 

They arrived at the apartment. The actress is carrying a shopping bag, while Wheein quickly runs inside.

 

“Come on in. I’ll just— “

 

Wheein ran further to the place. It’s a mess. She kicked some old shoes under the cabinet, threw away an unfinished pizza and hid a plate of breakfast in a cupboard. Solar entered the kitchen.

 

“It’s not that tidy, I fear.” Wheein explained, panting. The actress looked around and she finally remembered why they were here. “Shirt! You need a shirt. Be right back.”

 

Wheein disappeared in one of the rooms, trying to find a clean shirt. She realized in horror that she and her roommate haven’t done any laundry this week. She searched through what was left and picked it up. She went outside before taking the bag from Solar’s hand and guiding her to the bathroom.

 

When they were in front of it, the actress politely asked for the clean shirt, which Wheein hesitantly handed her.

 

“Sorry. Apparently, I don’t have many clean shirts. And this is all I could find.”

 

Solar gently grabbed the sweatshirt from her and took a look at it. The actress let out an involuntary snort, her hand immediately covering to hide it, afterwards.

 

“Is that?” Solar asked after she recovered.

 

“Yeah,” Wheein grimaced. “That’s all I have at the moment.”

 

The actress nodded and went inside the bathroom to change. As soon as she was out of sight, Wheein let out a frustrated sigh and started tidying up frantically. 

 

A few minutes later, Wheein heard Solar opening the door. The biggest actress in the country right now is currently wearing a gray oversized sweatshirt her friend gave to her and their other friends as a gift, with a printed picture of her, edited into a local snack and with the words ‘Loser Crew Member’ at the bottom.

 

Despite that embarrassing shirt on, Wheein cannot help but be dazzled by the sight of her. The actress managed to make it look good. And Solar is gorgeous.

 

“Okay, so… “ The actress’ voice pulled Wheein out of her reveries. She realized that she had been staring at her. “I’ll be going.”

 

“Would you like a cup of coffee before you go?” Wheein said, a little eager to her liking. She ran to open the fridge.

 

“No, thanks.” 

 

“Tea?”

 

“No.” Solar answered again, looking a bit mixed between annoyed and amused.

 

“A beer? Probably not.” Wheein wondered. “Something else— coke? There is a diet coke somewhere here. Oh! I only have the regular one. Do you want that?”

 

“Really, no.” There was a hint of a smile now tugging at the actress’ lips.

 

“Do you always say ‘no’ to everything?”

 

There was a pause. Solar started with a passive expression, raising an eyebrow but then it eventually turned into a full smile.

 

“No,” The actress replied, she was biting her bottom lip now. “I better be going. Thanks for your help.”

 

“Right, of course. You’re a very busy woman.” Wheein tried to hide the disappointment in your voice. “You’re welcome and, may I also say… beautiful.”

 

It has taken everything in Wheein to get this all out loud. Smooth verbal conversation was not really her strongest suit. She slowly closed the fridge and followed Solar towards the door.

 

“Take my one chance to say it. After you’ve listened to that terrible record, you’re certainly not going to be coming back to the shop.”

 

The actress’ eyebrows shot up, then smiled. Wheein thinks she's cool.

 

“Thank you,” Solar said again.

 

“Yes. Well— ” Wheein could feel herself starting to ramble again but unable to stop it. “— My pleasure. It was nice to meet you. Surreal but nice… “

 

“Bye, then,” the smile was still present on the actress’ face as she opened the door. 

 

Once it closed, Wheein shook her head in wonder. “‘Surreal but nice?’ What was I thinking?”

 

Wheein shook her head again in horror and wandered back along to the kitchen. There’s a knock on the door. She moved back casually.

 

She opened the door and found Solar standing there.

 

“Oh, Hi. Forget something?”

 

“I forgot my bag.” 

 

“Oh, right.” Wheein sprinted into the kitchen and picked up the forgotten shopping bag. And then returned and handed it to her. “Here we go.”

 

“Thanks. Well… “ 

 

They stood still by the door, in that small space. Second time saying goodbye. A strange feeling of intimacy. Solar let the shopping bag she was holding with her books and shirt fall to the ground and slowly grabbed Wheein’s face. She leaned forward and brought their lips together. 

 

Wheein still has no idea what was happening. Instead of making sense of it, she closed her eyes and kissed the actress back. It was strange, but the good kind. And Solar’s lips are soft and nice. Wheein feels like she is melting.

 

When Wheein opened her eyes again, the actress was already picking her bag and shirt.

 

“I apologize for the ‘surreal but nice’ comment. Disaster… “

 

“Don’t worry about it. I thought messing up my good shirt business was the real low point.” 

 

Suddenly there was a sound of opening and closing the door inside the apartment.

 

“Oh my god. That’s my roommate.” Wheein said, panicking a little.

 

“I’m just going to get some food, Wheein-ah!” Seulgi yelled from the other side of the room. “And then later you’re going to tell me if my painting .” Another round of opening and closing the door was heard.

 

Once Wheein’s roommate was gone, Solar said, “probably best not tell anyone about this.”

 

“Right. No one.” Wheein assured her, scratching her head. “I mean, I’ll tell myself sometimes but… don’t worry, I won’t believe it either.”

 

“Bye.”

 

And like that, Solar left, not without a touch on Wheein’s hand.

 

There was another round of opening and closing the door. And suddenly, Seulgi appeared. 

 

“I changed my mind. My work needs another polishing.”

 

“I bet it is perfect.”

 

“Thank you for the support. But it needs more. What about we watch a film tonight? For inspirational purposes.”

 

“Yeah, sure.” Wheein said casually. “But can I choose the film?”

 

“Fine. But please, not those boring indie films you love to watch.”

 

-

 

The lights are off. Wheein and Seulgi are on the couch, there is a movie playing on their television while they are stuffing themselves with dinner. 

 

They saw Solar Kim on the screen. She was in a stylish Julia Robert’s type of romantic comedy film, something like ‘Pretty Woman,’ in a warm color palette.

 

Solar’s character is walking around the gallery with her famous co-star, Gongyoo. They should be the perfect couple, but there was tension. Solar is not happy.

 

“Smile.”

 

“No.”

 

“Smile”

 

“I’ve got nothing to smile about.”

 

“Okay in about seven seconds, I’m going to ask you to marry me.”

 

And after a couple of seconds, Solar smiled.

 

“She is really pretty,” Seulgi commented. Wheein only hummed in response. “Imagine, somewhere in the world, there is someone who’s allowed to kiss her.”

 

Wheein found herself staring at the screen, her eyes darting to the lips that touched hers only a couple of hours ago before. Or not. She was honestly wondering if she just imagined the whole thing.

 

“Yes, she is fairly extraordinary.”

 

Later that night, Wheein opened her closet before going to bed. She looked around and a sweatshirt was missing. Maybe, Wheein got something to smile about.

 

-

 

It was quite funny. Days after Wheein met Solar Kim, she started seeing her everywhere. Not the physical one, unfortunately, but she sees her face on the bus stop in front of her place, the billboard she passed on her afternoon walk, every magazine cover she happened to glance at. But if she was honest with herself, the place Solar was inhabiting the most was her own mind.

 

Incidentally, Wheein went to the kitchen and paused when she found Seulgi wearing her own version of the sweatshirt she gave the actress, but instead of ‘Loser Crew Member,’ it has ‘Team Rocket’ written on it with her face edited on an anime character. 

 

She fixed herself a cup of coffee, before asking, “Unnie, why are you wearing that?”

 

“Hmm. A combination of factors really. But ultimately, I don’t have any clean clothes.” Seulgi supplied as she sipped in her own coffee.

 

“There never will be, you know, unless you actually wash your clothes.”

 

“Brave, coming from you, Wheeinie. I went to your closet and there are no clean clothes either.”

 

After breakfast, the two of them hangout on the rooftop terrace, passing the day. Wheein is reading her book of the day. The terrace is small and the plants aren’t great. But it overlooks Jeonju in a rather wonderful way. Seulgi is still in the “Team Rocket” sweatshirt, but this time she had goggles on.

 

“Your glasses are really cool.” Seulgi said, tapping the eyewear.

 

“It’s not my glasses actually. I am wearing it right now,” Wheein pointed at her face. “That’s my prescription goggles. So, I won’t panic underwater.”

 

“Very cool. I think I should get one, too.”

 

Wheein shook her head, good-naturedly. Changing the topic, she asked, “are they any mails?”

 

“Yes. There are a couple.”

 

“All for you?”

 

“There was one for you.” Seulgi leaned back on her chair, relaxed. “It was actually a note. There was a number and signed with: potential record-thief or something. Should we be worried?”

 

“How long has this been there?” Wheein froze, then looked at Seulgi.

 

“I don’t know,” Seulgi shrugged, “a couple of days, maybe?”

 

“Where was it?”

 

-

 

Wheein was busy pacing back and forth in her room as she dialed a number, after she found the note on the coffee table of the apartment. With a deep breath, she finally pressed the call button.

 

“Hello?”

 

She felt sort of breathless when she heard that voice. Wheein started to ramble, “Umm— Hello, Solar-ssi? Look, this is a very odd situation. I’m Jung Wheein. You left me a note?”

 

“The ‘Loser Crew Member.’ You can call me Yongsun, only the press calls me Solar.”

 

Maybe, Wheein was imagining the hint of softness in her tone.

 

“Yeah, that’s me, Yongsun-ssi.” Wheein said, testing the name in her lips.

 

“Nice of you to call at all, actually. I’m not used to waiting around for people.” Despite what Yongsun had said, there was amusement in her voice.

 

“Oh no! That was not my intention at all. I forgot to check my mails and all that. And I just got it today and— “

 

“Relax, it’s fine. I just wanted to give your sweatshirt back. Since I'm leaving first thing tomorrow, you’ll have to come to me today, if you are not busy at all.”

 

“Yes, of course! Just tell me where and when I'll be there.”

 

Wheein almost pointed out that the actress could have just mailed back the sweatshirt with the note.

 

-

 

Wheein jumped off a bus that had a giant face of the actress plastered on it, and walked towards a five star establishment called: Velvet Hotel. With flowers in her hand, she found herself standing in a hallway, nervously waiting for the door in front of her to open. There are a number of journalists waiting there, too.

 

When the door opened, she was not greeted by the familiar figure she was expecting, but by an assistant with a notepad and a name tag: Yeri, in her blazer. 

 

“I’m here to see, Yong— Solar-ssi?” Wheein asked, after she mustered a little confidence.

 

“Of course, Solar-ssi will receive you shortly. You can wait with the others.” Yeri spoke as she wrote things down on her notepad. 

 

“The others?”

 

The assistant ignored her question completely but finally stopped and looked at her. She asked, “you are?”

 

“Wheein. Jung Wheein.” Wheein answered.

 

“From?”

 

“Jeonju.” Wheein replied, automatically. The assistant looked at her like she was an idiot.

 

“I meant what publishing?” Yeri raised an eyebrow, studying her.

 

Wheein tried desperately to recall the name of one of too many celebrity news sites her friends read but came up empty.

 

“Magnolia Weekly,” she finally settled on it, giving her shop’s name and hoping not to be asked for any specifics about something she had no idea about. Yeri gave her an odd look before she motioned for Wheein to sit down among the journalists. 

 

Before she started to list the series of events that lead her to this situation, the assistant called her back and led her into a room. Yeri then left, closing the door behind her, leaving Wheein alone with Yongsun.

 

There was the actress. She was standing by the window with her long black swept to the side, highlighting her facial features. She was wearing makeup so lightly that Wheein would’ve easily missed it. She was wearing a creamy white, sleeveless pantsuit contrast to the white shirt, leather jacket and jeans she wore before. Yongsun looked absolutely heavenly.

 

“Hi,” the actress smiled, almost shy.

 

“Hello,” Wheein said, absolutely shy. She waved the flowers in her hand. “I brought these, but clearly… “

 

There are lots of other flowers in the room. She looked at it, the actress and herself, who was wearing a red cap on her head and a white button down shirt tucked in a loose brown corduroy pant, and concluded that she was completely out of place.

 

“Oh, these are great.” 

 

There was a fair amount of tension. They just stared at each other for a moment unsure of what to do. Two people who hardly know each other. And the first and last time they met, they kissed. 

 

“Sorry about not calling back immediately.” Wheein said, breaking the tension. “As you had seen, our apartment is a mess and so is my roommate since she was in her artistic mode.”

 

“No, it’s fine.” Yongsun assured her as she moved to her bag, resting on a table and fished out a neatly folded sweatshirt. “Thought, you might want this back.” The actress walked to Wheein, who gently took it from her. “I would have mailed it to your place but figured I should have someone dry-clean it first.”

 

“You shouldn’t have to, but thanks, anyway. I can’t believe I gave this to you.” Wheein glanced at the shirt, before turning at Yongsun. “And, I can’t believe you actually wore it.”

 

“It was better than going outside with a huge tea stain on my shirt.”

 

“I’m not sure about that… “ Wheein trailed off, which earned a laugh from the actress.

 

The door behind them opened, the assistant coming in to check on her notepad. Yongsun sat down on the couch in the middle of the room and gestured for Wheein to sit on a chair in front of her. 

 

“This is Jung Wheein, from… “ Yeri said, reading her notes, when neither of them spoke. “Magnolia Weekly?”

 

Yongsun raised an eyebrow. “Is that so?”

 

Wheein shrugged her shoulders as she situated herself opposite the actress.

 

“I’ve actually never heard of it,” the assistant commented suspiciously, giving Yongsun a look, but the actress just smiled politely.

 

“I have. They have an interesting music section.”

 

Wheein sighed in relief, grateful to Yongsun as the assistant went back to working on her papers. The actress looked at her expectantly, and Wheein dreadfully realized there was only one thing she could do now.

 

“Right. Umm. The film’s great… and I just wondered— whether you ever thought of having more… cg effects in it?”

 

Yongsun almost laughed out loud at Wheein’s choice of words, seeing as she clearly had not seen this ‘great’ film, but she decided to play along.

 

“Well, we would have liked to— ” the actress after she recovered, but she was still chuckling. “But it was difficult, obviously, being the film leaning more towards reality.”

 

Wheein opened , panicking, but her head turned quickly to the door. It had slammed shut, Yeri left and disappeared behind it.

 

“I’m sorry! I arrived outside and she asked who I was. And I didn’t know what to do.”

 

“I would apologize for putting you in this situation, but honestly I think it was partly your fault for not calling me sooner.”

 

“That’s not— “ Wheein was flustered. “I really am sorry about that.”

 

“I’m just teasing. I’m glad you came. To be honest, the sweatshirt was sort of an excuse.”

 

Wheein felt her stomach turn in a not unpleasant way. Had Yongsun just confessed she made up an excuse to see her again?

 

“I actually wanted to talk to you about… what happened.”

 

Their eyes met for a moment, until they were again interrupted when the assistant re-enter the room.

 

“Do remember that Solar-ssi is also keen to talk about her new project, which is shooting later in a few months.” Yeri informed Wheein.

 

“Oh, y— yes. Excellent.” Wheein stuttered. “Umm— any cg in that one? Our readers are equally intrigued by special effects.”

 

“It is a period drama film.”

 

“Yes. Right… But if you were to ride horses would you be riding them yourself or would you get cg experts making it look like you’re riding one?”

 

The assistant left the room again.

 

“I wanted to make sure you didn’t tell anyone about it. I’m sorry to even ask, it’s just…” Yongsun started. She looked around the place. Wheein can hear a slight frustration in her voice. “I seriously don’t know what got into me. I just wanted to make sure you were fine about it.”

 

“Totally fine. I mean, this is the sort of things that happens in dreams— not in real life. Good dream, obviously. It’s a dream to see you. So, you don’t have to worry, I won’t tell anyone about my dream.”

 

“And what happened next in the dream?” Yongsun asked, smirking. It was a challenge.

 

“Well, I suppose in the dream scenario. I just, umm, change my personality, because you can do that in a dream, and walk across and kiss the girl but you know it will never happen.” Wheein is just rambling again, at this point.

 

Yongsun smiled brightly at her then and Wheein was dumbstruck for a moment, recognizing that smile from the many billboards, posters and pictures she had seen of the actress lately. She was not lying when she said she would not believe this was happening in real life.

 

As she pondered this, the actress stood up from the couch and made her way over to Wheein, who quickly stood up as well. There was a pause as they looked into each other’s eyes. Wheein tentatively took one step forward and Yongsun slowly leaned in.

 

The door opened and they immediately moved away from each other, Yongsun way more gracefully than Wheein, who stumbled backwards, hitting the chair she was sitting on only moments before.

 

The assistant, who had walked in with her head in her notepad, not paying them any attention, held up her eyes at the noise.

 

“Time’s up, I’m afraid.” Yeri said, still focused on her notes. “Sorry it was so short. Did you get what you wanted?”

 

“Very nearly.” Wheein muttered and then cleared .

 

“Maybe time for one last question?”

 

“Right,” Wheein nodded.

 

And with one last skeptical look at Wheein, the assistant was gone once again.

 

“Solar-ssi, Are you busy tonight?” 

 

Yongsun studied her for a beat, then answered, “yes.”

 

The door opened once again, Yeri walking in with an actual journalist in tow. Wheein and Yongsun shake hands formally. It lingered there. She glances at the actress, taking her in one last time before she forces herself to look away and starts walking towards the door.

 

“Well, it was nice to meet you.” Yongsun said, before Wheein was out of the door. “Surreal but nice.”

 

“Thank you. You are ‘Magnolia Weekly’s’ favorite actress. You and the woman from Lady Vengeance. Tied.” 

 

There was a sound of coughing loudly, clearly annoyed. Wheein got her cue and with one last smile, she left the room and Yongsun behind.

 

-

 

Wheein replayed the encounter in her head as she waited for the elevator. No matter how many times she did, it still seemed like a dream to her. She couldn’t help but scold herself when she forgot to get her sweatshirt. Though somehow, she was glad that she did, as it proved that this was all real. 

 

She might never see the actress again, except on films or billboards or news sites. But it was a dream, Wheein wouldn’t forget. She smiled at the thought. 

 

Her daydreaming was interrupted when she felt her phone vibrate in her pocket, a familiar ringtone filling the air.

 

“Hey, Hyejinie.”

 

“Should I wear my black dress tonight? Or should I just go with my usual comfy jeans?”

 

There was a moment of silence.

 

“… For my birthday dinner. You forgot again, didn’t you?”

 

“What? No! Of course not! How could I forget my best friend’s birthday!” Wheein didn’t really forget, it was just… tucked somewhere in her mind. “I was just trying to imagine you in those two options to see what looks good on you. And now, having thought of it, I think the black dress would be perfect.”

 

“Jung Wheein!” A voice suddenly yelled from behind her. When she turned, she saw Solar Kim speed-walking towards her. She came to a stop a couple feet away.

 

“Hyejin-ah, I’ll call you back later.”

 

Wheein didn’t stop staring at Yongsun for one moment as she closed the call and slid the phone into her coat pocket.

 

“Yes?”

 

“Umm. That thing I was doing tonight— “ the actress said, panting a little. The idea that Solar Kim had to speed-walk to catch her was something Wheein could not process right now. “I’m not doing it anymore. I told them I had to spend the evening with Jeonju’s finest journalist.”

 

“Oh, well, great.” 

 

“I was hoping for a little more enthusiasm,” Yongsun half joked, but if Wheein didn’t know better, she’d think she sounded almost nervous.

 

“Oh, no. I am! I’m— “ Wheein was embarrassed. “It’s just… It’s my best friend’s birthday. We’re meant to be having dinner.”

 

“Okay, fine,” the actress said, there was finality in her voice.

 

“Yeah, so, maybe tomorrow?”

 

“No, I mean, if it’s fine with you, I'll, you know, be your date. If it’s not like, a only-friends thing or something.”

 

“You’ll be my date at my best friend’s birthday party?”

 

“If that’s all right.” There was a hint of hesitation in the actress’ tone.

 

“I’m sure it’s all right.” Wheein voice getting a little higher, but she caught herself. “My friend Seungwan-unnie is cooking and she’s acknowledged to be the best cook in the world, but you know, you shouldn’t tell her that because it would inflate her ego. And we wouldn’t hear the end of it.”

 

“Great. I can meet you at your record shop?”

 

“Sure. Tonight. See you.”

 

“I’ll see you there.” Yongsun smiled, walking back in.

 

-

 

“Who will be at this dinner?” Yongsun asked as she and Wheein walked towards Seungwan’s apartment. It was only a few minutes walk from the record shop and the weather was uncharacteristically forgiving at this time of the year, so they decided to go on foot.

 

“Hyejin, of course. The birthday girl. She’s my best friend. She’s studying to be a lawyer but really she wants to be a singer.”

 

The actress smiled, encouraging Wheein to go on.

 

“Then there’s my roommate, Seulgi-unnie. She’s an artist. I met her back in college along with Byulyi, who is going to be there, too. She is a writer and also one of my best friends,” Wheein explained. “Unfortunately, Sooyoung couldn’t make it. But her ride or die would be there, Seungwan-unnie, our friends’ self-proclaimed chef.”

 

Wheein rolled her eyes, playfully, which earned a grin from Yongsun.

 

“We are heading to her apartment actually because she has the nicest place out of all of us. And then there’s Joohyun-unnie.”

 

“Who’s Joohyun?”

 

“Seungwan-unnie’s wife… and my ex-girlfriend. It’s getting kind of chilly, are you okay? Don’t you really want my jacket, I know it is not something you would usually wear but— how about my scarf— “

 

“Wheein,” Yongsun shot her a look. Wheein stopped her nervous rambling and turned to face her.

 

“This is your last chance to run away.” Wheein suggested, half-serious.

 

The actress shook her head with a smile. “I won’t. And besides, I want to meet your crew members that was written on my sweatshirt.”

 

“Oh, so it’s yours now.”

 

“Yes. I mean, it’s comfy. So, It’s mine now.”

 

“Ignoring the ‘loser’ printed part, it looked better on you anyway.” Wheein blushed as soon as it came out of . She didn’t know where she got the courage to say that.

 

In the corner of her eye, she thought she saw Yongsun blushed too.

 

-

 

They slowly walked up the steps to Seungwan’s apartment. She turned to Yongsun, who nodded encouragingly. Wheein rang the bell.

 

Seungwan opened the door, impatiently, and turned back without looking at Wheein and Yongsun standing there.

 

“Come on in. Vague food crisis,” Seungwan said, as the two of them followed her along the corridor to the kitchen. “Joohyun-unnie’s there.”

 

“Sorry! The sheperd’s pie is proving more complicated than expected.” Joohyun yelled from the other side of the apartment.

 

“She’s cooking sheperd’s pie?” Wheein asked, as they arrived at the kitchen.

 

“Don’t even ask,” Joohyun mouthed at Wheein, before smiling kindly as she returned. There were no hard feelings between them. In fact, she was still one of her best friends.

 

“Hi,” Yongsun greeted them.

 

“Hi,” Joohyun greeted back as she took a hard look at the actress, but recovered quickly. “Good Lord— you’re the splitting image of… “

 

“Joohyun-unnie,” Wheein interjected as she didn't want to confuse Joohyun more. “This is Solar.” She glanced at the actress as if to ask permission which Yongsun nodded with an approving smile. “Or Yongsun.”

 

“Right.” 

 

There was a pause.

 

“Okay! Crisis averted,” Seungwan cheered. She rose from her position from the oven.

 

“Seungwan-unnie, this is Solar. Or you can call her Yongsun,” Wheein introduced.

 

“Hello, Solar-ssi, umm… “ Seungwan recognizes her. She looked like she’s about to say something else, but decided against it. “Kim— Yongsun-ssi, have some wine.”

 

“Thank you,” Yongsun politely replied, nodding lightly as accepted the glass of wine.

 

The doorbell rang. Seungwan volunteered to answer it. In the kitchen, they heard her greet the newcomer with a loud ‘happy birthday.’

 

Once Seungwan and Hyejin arrived at the kitchen, everyone greeted her.

 

“Hi, guys!” Her best friend said. She was doing a little pose, having worn the black dress Wheein suggested. It was only a matter of second before her eyes fell on Yongsun. “Oh, sh— “

 

“Hyejin-ah,” Wheein interrupted. “This is Solar,” she added, then gestured towards the actress. “Yongsun-unnie, this is Hyejin. She’s my best friend.”

 

“Hi,” Yongsun said. There was a small smile forming in her lips as Hyejin looked stunned.

 

“Oh, God. You’re Solar Kim,” Hyejin stated, still staring at her with her eyes wide open.

 

“Just call me Yongsun. Happy birthday.” Yongsun handed her a small present neatly wrapped.

 

“Solar Kim— Yongsun-unnie, just handed me a present.” 

 

Wheein handed her a present and stepped in to hug her best friend before she could say something more.

 

“Happy birthday, Hyejin-ah,” Wheein greeted. And when she is close enough that only her best friend can hear, she added, “Don’t be weird, please?”

 

She felt her Hyejin nod slightly, but she still seemed unable to utter a single word. She, and everybody there, were thankfully saved by the bell.

 

“That’ll be Seulgi and Byulyi-unnie,” Seungwan went to open the door, confirming her suspicions.

 

“Hey, everybody, are we late?” Byulyi asked, Seulgi in tow. Everyone gave each other a hug. They went to greet Hyejin and gave their gifts before Wheein introduced Yongsun.

 

“Unnies, this is my friend, Yongsun-unnie.” 

 

“Hello,” Yongsun greeted politely. Byulyi extended her hand with a charming grin.

 

“Hello, Solar… Kim-ssi.” Her face fell as she shocked her hand. Wheein elbowed her lightly in the stomach, waking her from her trance. She dropped Yongsun’s hand and tried to recompose herself.

 

“Nice to meet you!” Seulgi said, a bright smile present in her face, lovely as always.

 

Seungwan rose again from her position from the oven, holding a huge tray of shepered’s pie. 

 

“Let’s eat! I’m starving.”

 

-

 

Once they all sat down to have dinner, everybody’s first shocked reaction after meeting Yongsun gave way to the usual comfort they felt around each other. Their conversation mostly revolved around the birthday girl and the usual work and life anecdotes. And everything was going well, Wheein thought. Of course as soon as she did, Seulgi, her sweet unnie, opened .

 

“So, Yongsun-unnie— “ Seulgi started. “What do you do?”

 

The table fell silent, everybody’s eyes were on Seulgi. Wheein felt a pang of empathy for her. They were similar in so many ways. Mainly, because their heads were all over the place. They wouldn’t know something until someone would specifically tell them or when they were actually hit by it.

 

“What? Did I say something wrong?”

 

“Of course, not. I’m an actress.” Yongsun replied softly.

 

“Hmm. That’s so interesting. I actually thought you look familiar.” Seulgi said between bites of her sheperd’s pie. She didn’t seem to notice that everybody else had quieted down and mostly stopped eating just to watch them interact. “Anyways, I always imagined it’s a pretty tough job, though, acting. I am actually an artist myself. I mean the wages are absurd, aren’t they?”

 

Byulyi, who made the terrible choice of sipping her water at that time, snorted into her glass, spitting half of its content out.

 

“Well, they can be.”

 

“Kind of unfair, isn’t it?” Seulgi asked, but it was almost a statement. “What sort of acting do you do?”

 

“Films mainly.”

 

“That’s amazing. How’s the pay in movies? I mean, last film you did, what did you get paid?”

 

“Around three billion won.”

 

“Right, right. So that’s… fairly good… ” Seulgi trailed off. She was interrupted when Seungwan finally helped her out of her misery and whispered to her. The horror on her face when she realized who Yongsun was. “You’re Solar Kim. The movie star. Oh god. Oh my god.”

 

Everyone on the table laughed out loud this time around, unable to contain themselves.

 

The rest of the dinner passed pretty smoothly after that. A few embarrassing stories from before, Seungwan doing her terrible and exaggerated impressions with Joohyun giggling on her side. Byulyi smoothly adding her witty comments. While Seulgi would laugh a second later. Wheein glanced at Yongsun from time to time, but she seemed perfectly at ease. The actress would burst into a fit of laughter at their jokes, her hand landing naturally on Wheein’s thigh, making her heart stop for a moment at how natural and easy it all seemed.

 

Moving on through the desert. They were very relaxed. And there’s a cake. Hyejin wore a party hat. Wheein laughed at it but eventually was made to wear one herself.

 

“Having you here, Yongsun-unnie, firmly establishes what I’ve long suspected,” Seungwan said, waving around the room, “that we really are the most desperate hot of under-achievers.”

 

“Shame!” Byulyi commented.

 

“I’m not saying it’s a bad thing, in fact, I think it’s something we should take pride in. I’m going to give the last slice of cake as a prize to the saddest act here.”

 

A little pause. Then Wheein turned to Seulgi.

 

“Seulgi-unnie, you first.”

 

“Well, obviously it’s me. I work as a painter. Something that doesn’t really pay my bills right now. And I haven’t been in a romantic relationship since puberty,” Despite what Seulgi had said, she still doesn’t seem affected by it. She just stated things as it is, “and well, the long and short of it is, nobody fancies me. Or that, I still haven’t met the right person.”

 

“Nonsense. Sooyoung fancies you,” Hyejin scolded her a little. “Or she did, before you got all awkward on her.”

 

“You see— and unless I’m much mistaken, painting still is the thing that you’ve always wanted to do. And it makes you incredibly happy. Money would follow after that, once they realized how incredible your works are,” Seungwan supplied. “While Hyejin, here, she earns nothing but keeps spending money on law school.”

 

“Yes! And I worked my off studying something I don’t wanna do. And no one will ever marry me because I will probably be old and gray until I actually finish school and have time to date.”

 

“You see— incredibly sad.”

 

“On the other hand, her best friend is Wheein, who is friends with Solar Kim,” Joohyun jokes.

 

“That’s true, I can’t deny it. They need me, what can I say?”

 

“And you guys actually graduated college. Whereas I am stuck in my day job at the market, because I didn’t have a diploma to prove I can do other things, too. And to add insult to injury, I can’t drink to drown my sorrow away. But the truth is… we can’t have a baby.”

 

Dead silence.

 

“Joohyun-unnie.” Wheein said, frowning a little bit.

 

“No. Not true. Surrogate is an option now.” Byulyi said, trying to comfort Joohyun. “And you guys can always adopt.”

 

“But then again, we’re still lucky in lots of ways, but… “ Joohyun trailed off, there was a genuine smile on her face. “Surely it’s worth the last piece of the cake.”

 

Wheein reached for Joohyun’s hand. Seungwan breaks the sombre mood.

 

“Well, I don’t know. Look at Wheein. Very unsuccessful professionally. Used to be beautiful, now kind of musty— “ Seungwan playfully jest. “— and absolutely certain never to hear from Yongsun-unnie again after she’s come to learn that Wheein doesn’t take a bath often.”

 

They all laugh. Yongsun smiled at Wheein.

 

“So I get the cake?” 

 

“I think you do, yes.” Byulyi rolled her eyes.

 

“Wait a minute. What about me?” Yongsun said, seemed eager to share her saddest act.

 

“I’m sorry?” Byulyi raised an eyebrow. “You think you deserve the cake?”

 

“Well… a shot at it,” the actress mumbled.

 

“You’ll have to prove it. This is a great piece of cake. And I’m going to fight for it.” Wheein tried to encourage Yongsun, who is uncharacteristically bashful, “State your claim.”

 

Yongsun took a deep breath before saying, “Well, I’ve been on a diet since I was nineteen, which basically means I’ve been hungry for a decade. I’ve had a sequence of bad relationships. And every time I had even a small inconvenience, it would get splashed across the news. Meantime, it cost millions to get me looking like this… “ The actress gestured at her face.

 

“Really?” Hyejin wondered.

 

“Not really— but one day, not long from now… “ While the actress said this, quiet settled around the table. The thing is, everyone around understood that she meant it and that Yongsun was opening up to them. “… my looks will go, they’ll find out I can’t act and I’ll become a sad middle-aged woman who looks a bit like someone who was famous for a while.

 

There was silence again. Everyone was looking at her until Byulyi spoke up.

 

“Nah! Nice try, gorgeous— “ Byulyi said that only to lighten up everybody. “— But you don’t fool anyone.”

 

“Pathetic effort to hog the cake.” Wheein smiled softly at Yongsun, who returned it with her own.

 

The mood is instantly broken. And they all laugh.

 

-

 

When the night ended, Wheein and Yongsun put on their coats, about to leave.

 

“That was such a great evening. It was nice meeting you all.”

 

A general mumbling of ‘you too’ and ‘my pleasure’ erupted through the room.

 

“I’m delighted,” Joohyun said, as they walked them to the door. She put her hand for Yongsun to shake, “I won’t wait until you are gone before I tell you that Seungwan had a huge crush on you.”

 

Seungwan, who suddenly appeared, yelled, “No!”

 

Yongsun stifled a laugh and playfully wink at her.

 

And it seemed that everyone was at the door, too, to say their goodbyes again.

 

“I’m so sorry about the whole fangirling thing,” Hyejin smiled, apologetically. “But, look, call me if you need someone to go shopping with. I know lots of nice , cheap places… not that money is necessarily a problem.” She hugged Yongsun. “Nice meeting you.”

 

The actress returned the embrace and said, “You, too. From now on you are my style guru. Happy birthday, again.”

 

Wheein and Yongsun finally left, saying their goodbyes. As soon as the door closed behind them, they heard a roar of screams and incoherent enthusiastic words.

 

“Sorry,” Wheein said, a little embarrassed. She and Yongsun’s eyes met knowingly. “They always do that when I leave the house.”

 

Yongsun nodded, hiding a smile.

 

They started slowly walking towards the centre of the city, back to the record shop. It wasn’t too late, but it was the middle of the week, it had gotten colder now and there were no people around. Wheein enjoyed walking in silence. It felt as simple and normal as everything else had that night, despite the situation being anything but simple or normal.

 

“So that’s Joohyun, huh?” Yongsun broke the silence.

 

“Yes. Why?”

 

“Nothing, I just didn’t think you have a type.” 

 

“Yeah, right, I usually go for older women, so… “ Wheein teased which earned a laugh from the actress.

 

After that, they walk in silence for a moment until Yongsun comes to a stop. Wheein turned to her questioningly but had no time to speak before Yongsun’s lips were on hers, kissing her slowly. It was just as incredible and time stopping as the first time.

 

Yongsun pulled away, enjoying the flustered look on Wheein’s face as she kept her eyes closed a moment longer.

 

“Would you like to come… “ Wheein asked hesitantly. She mustered every bit of bravery she had in her. “My house is just... “

 

The actress smiled and shook her head. Yongsun seemed almost regretful. “Too complicated.”

 

“That’s fine.” Wheein tried to mask her disappointment, letting her gaze fall after a couple of seconds.

 

“Are you busy tomorrow?” The actress inquired. 

 

“I thought you were leaving?” 

 

“I was,” Yongsun smiled and started walking again.

 

Wheein looked at her for a moment, before sprinting to catch up to her.

 

-

 

The day after Hyejin’s birthday, Wheein rushed downstairs in a towel. She just had a shower. She walked past Seulgi and Byulyi, who were hanging out in the living room of her apartment.

 

“So, are you and Yongsun-unnie a thing now?” Seulgi asked, watching Wheein inspect every inch of the area.

 

“What? No, of course not, that’s stupid!” Wheein exclaimed as she crouched down. “Have you guys seen my glasses?”

 

“Is it though?” Byulyi intervened, completely ignoring her question. She and Seulgi lifted their legs, when Wheein decided to look for it under the couch. “I mean you did bring her as a date in Hyejin’s birthday party.”

 

“She wanted to come,” Wheein mumbled. She stood up and glanced around the room, still searching with no help from her friends. “This happens every time I go to the cinema. Average day, my glasses are everywhere. But the moment I need them they disappear. It’s one of life’s real cruelties.”

 

“That’s compared to, like, making me sit through your boring indie films… “ And then Seulgi’s eyes suddenly went wide. “Is that why you suggested to watch that film with Yongsun-unnie on it?”

 

Wheein avoided her gaze, “… maybe“

 

“That’s hilarious,” Byulyi chuckled.

 

“I think it’s sweet,” Seulgi interjected with a gentle smile.

 

“Where the hell are my glasses?”

 

“I think she wants you,” Byuyi wiggled her eyebrows suggestively. Seulgi lightly slapped her arm but she was giggling at the comment. Wheein glared at her. “What? Everyone saw the way you guys looked at each other.”

 

“They did look quite friendly. Which is insane, because a few days before that we were just talking about how pretty Yongsun-unnie is.” Seulgi stated as a matter of fact. Wheein stumbled while she was trying to reach her no-where-to-be-found glasses. “And then a fews days after, she was flirting with Wheeinie.”

 

“Did anything happen at least?” Byulyi wondered.

 

“Unnie! You’re such a ert, would you stop?”

 

“Actually, I want to know as well,” Seulgi said before thinking it over for a moment. Wheein looked betrayed. “It’s been a while since Wheein dated. And it’s not every day that a friend of ours dates a superstar.”

 

“She’s not— well she is but we’re not— “ Wheein stuttered. “Can you two talk about literally anything else? And maybe help me look, please?”

 

“Ohhhh,” Byulyi grinned directly at Seulgi. “She’s not denying it.”

 

“Oh no, Wheeinie’s blushing!” Seulgi teased.

 

“You know what, I’m just gonna use my goggles instead.” Wheein groaned. “I hate you both!”

 

“We love you, too!”

 

-

 

The night before, Yongsun invited Wheein to go to the movies to watch her newest film. The actress joked that as a Magnolia Weekly journalist she should watch it and just in case Wheein meets her assistant again and questions her about it. They found a small cinema near the record shop. Wheein suggested it since it would be such a hassle to be mobbed by the fans. She noted that despite Yongsun’s effort to cover herself up with gigantic glasses and tried to dress down as much as possible, she will still earn looks because she was beautiful.

 

Throughout the movie, Yongsun cannot stop laughing at her wearing her prescription goggles. But Wheein didn’t mind as it made the actress smile. She had to stop on her own, when Yongsun hesitantly held her hand, and Wheein admittedly focused on that and the woman beside her instead of the film playing on the screen.

 

After that, they planned to have dinner. And they found themselves sitting in a diner, just a few blocks from the cinema. 

 

“I can’t believe that you cancelled your schedule today, just to eat greasy food with me here,” Wheein commented as she took a bite of her burger.

 

“No, I don’t really have a schedule today. I was just gonna sleep throughout the day. So, here I am.” Yongsun said it nonchalantly. 

 

Wheein put down her meal and stared at the actress, who was staring at her own burger a little intently, maybe counting the calories of it. If she didn’t know any better, she will think that Yongsun was shy and that she wants to spend time with her.

 

“Well, I’m glad that you’re here,” Wheein said.

 

After she convinced the actress that she can just work out to burn everything she had eaten, the dinner proceeded effortlessly. Their conversation flowed as naturally as ever. They talked about the past, teasing each other about their teenage misadventures, and just filling in to know more about one another.

 

“So, who left you?” Yongsun inquired. They are near the end of their meal. 

 

Wheein didn’t have to ask who the actress was talking about as they were just having a conversation about last night’s dinner. Maybe, she swooned a little when Yongsun seemed really interested in her friends and their well-being.

 

“She left me,” Wheein supplied.

 

“Why?”

 

“Joohyun-unnie, saw through me.”

 

“Uh-oh,” Yongsun animatedly said. “Should I be worried?”

 

They were interrupted when they heard these two rowdy men talking.

 

“No, no, no!” One of the men said, slamming the table that caught the attention of some. He was clearly drunk. “Give me Solar Kim any day!”

 

Wheein and Yongsun look at each other. She noticed that the actress was not even bothered that some people were mentioning her name.

 

“I didn’t like the last film of hers. Fast asleep from the moment the lights went down.” One of the men commented.

 

This time though, Wheein saw Yongsun flinched a bit. It was such a tiny movement, that if she wasn't watching her she wouldn't have caught it.

 

“Not my type at all really,” one of the men, laughed as if he had even a minuscule chance on her. “I prefer that other one. The sweet looking girl on that famous drama playing on Saturdays.”

 

Yongsun snorted at that, which Wheein thought it might not be that bad. 

 

“Solar Kim looks like a bitc— “

 

The actress’ face fell.

 

“I bet, that cold attitude of her would change once I put my— “

 

This is horrible. Wheein got up and went around the table to the men. There were in fact four of them. The other two, she knew, as they were these men as regulars in a local bar, their friends hated going in.

 

“I’m sorry to disturb you guys but— “ Wheein started, but was cut off by one of the men.

 

“Can I help you?”

 

“Well, yes, I wish I hadn’t overheard your conversation— “ Wheein was not very convincing or a frightening figure. “— but I did and I just think, you know… “ Oh god, she was really bad at confrontations. “… the actress you’re talking about is a real person and I think she deserves a little bit more consideration as a human being, rather than having… you jerks talking about her like she doesn't have feelings.”

 

“Get lost, little girl,” one of the men dismissed her. “What are you, her mother?”

 

Yongsun suddenly appeared at her side and gently grabbed her away without being recognized.

 

“I’m sorry,” Wheein said, dejected.

 

“No, that’s fine,” Yongsun reassured as she reached for Wheein’s hand, squeezing it a little. There was vulnerability in her eyes. “I love that you tried… before I’d have done the same.”

 

They walked towards the door, but then the actress suddenly said, “give me a second.”

 

And Yongsun stride straight back to the table of the men, leaving Wheein a few steps behind.

 

“Hi,” Yongsun greeted, there was a fake smile present on her face.

 

“Oh my god… “ One of the men trailed off, while the rest of the occupants of the table stared in disbelief.

 

“I’m sorry about my friend— “ Yongsun gestured at Wheein. “— she’s very sensitive.”

 

“No, look, I’m sorry— “

 

“Please, please— “ The actress interrupted. “—  Let’s just leave it there. I’m sure you guys meant no harm, and I’m sure it was just friendly banter and I’m sure your brains are all the size of peanuts. A perfect match for the size of all of— whatever you call that thing between your legs. Enjoy your meal. The burger’s really good.”

 

The men can only watch as Yongsun walks away.

 

-

 

“I shouldn’t have done that,” Yongsun exclaimed. “I shouldn’t have done that!”

 

They are walking slowly back to where the actress was staying. 

 

“No, you were brilliant,” Wheein gave her a proud pat in the back. And she really thinks that Yongsun was brilliant. 

 

“I’m rash and I’m stupid and what am I doing with you?” There was a little frown on Yongsun’s face. She was obviously frustrated, but Wheein can’t help but think that she was cute.

 

“I don’t know, I’m afraid.” Wheein smiled.

 

Yongsun stared at her for a second and then returned the smile. “I don’t know either.”

 

They continued walking until they reached the entrance to the actress’ hotel.

 

“This is me,” Yongsun said. She studied Wheein for a while before she added, “Do you want to come up?”

 

Wheein stumbled a little at the question. Of course, she wanted to, but she hesitated. “There are lots of reasons why I shouldn’t.”

 

“There are lots of reasons,” Yongsun shrugged. “Do you want to come up?”

 

Wheein nodded and Yongsun slowly linked her arm around hers as they tried to hide their smiles. Before they could get into the hotel room, they heard a movement inside. Yongsun looked at Wheein. And for the first time since they’d met, the actress seemed scared.

 

“Should we call security?” Wheein suggested, worried that someone might have broken in.

 

“No, no,” Yongsun said, a little distracted. “Give me a sec.”

 

“Are you sure?”

 

The actress didn’t answer and just went inside the room, leaving Wheein wondering why Yongsun seemed nervous. It didn’t take long before she opened the door. Wheein was relieved that she was alright, but the actress was distressed.

 

“You’ve got to go,” Yongsun said. The way she spoke those words left no room for arguments.

 

“Why?” But Wheein had to at least try.

 

“Because my boyfriend, who I thought was in Seoul, is in fact here.”

 

“Your boyfriend— “

 

“Who is it?” A voice said suddenly, interrupting her question.

 

Wheein got a glimpse of the guy when she came into view. He seemed very at home, wearing a shirt, and loose pants. She recognized the guy from one of those dramas, Seulgi enjoys watching. His name is Eric something— she really can’t remember right now.

 

Her heart dropped when she realized what’s happening. Wheein swallowed her feelings as she took a step backward, trying to look more comfortable than she felt.

 

“Room service,” Wheein lied. 

 

“How you doing?” Eric something asked. He has this charming smile on his face and Wheein hated it. “I thought someone already cleaned up the place.”

 

“Oh, really? Well, I’ll take my leave then.” Yongsun glanced at Wheein when she said it but her eyes darted to the ground immediately.

 

She bid them goodbye, quickly turning around and walking away.

 

Wheein sits alone on a bus, not really in a mood to travel by foot back to her apartment. She closes her eyes, hoping that her tears would stop.

 

-

 

The first thing Wheein did when she got to her destination was to grab her phone and google Yongsun. Maybe, if she had done it before she would have known that she was in a relationship with her fellow actor Eric Nam for years.

 

Instead of going back to her apartment, she went to Seungwan’s place. Luckily, her friend was still awake and welcomed her. Wheein told her what happened which Seungwan nodded understandingly.

 

“You didn’t know she had a boyfriend?” Seungwan asked her while Wheein was slouching on her friend’s couch, eating ice-cream that her friend made.

 

“No— did you?”

 

Seungwan gave her a sympathetic smile then nodded.

 

“Bloody hell!” Wheein exclaimed. “I can’t believe it— my non-existent love life is ruined because I don’t google people.”

 

“Let’s face facts. This was always a no-go situation. Yongsun-unnie’s a goddess and you know what happens to mortals who get involved with the gods.”

 

“Broken?” That's what Wheein was feeling right now.

 

“Every time. But don’t despair— “ Seungwan took a deep breath. “I have more ice-cream in the fridge.”

 

Wheein smiled sadly, hugging her friend. 

 

“Can I stay here for the night?”

 

“Of course. Just don’t sneak in my bedroom with Joohyun-unnie in it in the middle of the night when I go take a pee or something.” Seungwan threatened, but it was empty words. 

 

Wheein laughed. She always goes to Seungwan when things get tough, all of their friends do.

 

-

 

The days after that were somehow worse than before. Probably, Wheein mused, because now she wasn’t just seeing Yongsun’s face everywhere without being able to actually see or talk to her.

 

Wheein had dinner at Seungwan’s a few times. And sometimes her friend would try to set her up with their colleagues. Which proved useless because as much as she hated brooding about it, she always ended up thinking of someone else.

 

That night, she was sitting with Seungwan, Joohyun and this perfect girl. Her name was Chaeyoung. And she was smart, well-dressed and beautiful. 

 

“Delicious dinner,” Chaeyoung commented.

 

“Thank you,” Seungwan lit up at the compliment. “I just followed the recipe from a website.”

 

“Show-off,” Wheein mumbled jokingly.

 

They all laugh. It was going really well and when it was time to go home, Wheein was with Chaeyoung by the door, just about to say goodbye.

 

“Maybe, we’ll meet again some time.”

 

“Yes. That would be… “ Wheein trailed off. “Great. Yeah.”

 

Chaeyoung kisses her gently on the cheek. Wheein opened the door and the girl left. She shuts the door quietly and heads back into the living room where Seungwan and Joohyun wait excitedly.

 

“Well?” Seungwan started, looking really curious.

 

“She’s perfect,” Wheein said, “perfect.”

 

“But?” Joohyun raised an eyebrow.

 

Wheein made a gentle, exasperated gesture, then said, “I think you have forgotten… “ She looked at them, “what an unusual situation you have here— to find someone you actually love, who’ll love you— the chances are always miniscule. Look at me— not counting Yongsun-unnie— I’ve only loved two girls in my whole life, both total disasters.”

 

“That’s not fair,” Seungwan frowned.

 

“No really, one of them dated me until she found a guy, who can buy a whole island— “ Wheein gestured at Joohyun. “— and the other, who seriously ought to have known better, casually married my best friend.”

 

There was a pause, until Joohyun speaks.

 

“I still love you though,” Joohyun gave a soft smile.

 

“In a depressingly platonic way.”

 

“I never fancied sleeping with you much actually… " Joohyun joked. They all roar with laughter hearing that. Before she added, “I was in loved you— but we never really fit in that department.”

 

“Oh no,” Wheein dramatically said, “This is just getting worse. I am going to find myself, ten years from now, still on this couch.”

 

“Do you want to stay?” Joohyun asked.

 

“Why not— “ Wheein positioned herself on the couch. “— all that awaits me at home is Seulgi-unnie covered in paint.”

 

The next morning, Wheein was eating breakfast as she watched Seungwan, all in her suit for the city and Joohyun kissed her goodbye. Joohyun moved back into the kitchen to pack her bag with course books from the kitchen table. She is also dressed-up, but instead for work, she was attending a local college uptown. Wheein was incredibly proud of her doing what she wanted to do, and not even short of support from Seungwan and their friends.

 

When Wheein was heading for home, a little ruffled from a night away from home, she failed to hear the silent murmur of people around when one of probably the most interesting things that day hit the news. 

 

-

 

The days passed slowly and fast all at the same time. Wheein had almost gotten used to seeing Yongsun’s face everywhere, though she tries to not be affected by it anymore. She also got used to ignoring everything related to her.

 

It became easier, she got back to her routine and could almost pretend everything that happened with Yongsun was nothing more than a fever dream. It felt like it anyway.

 

Wheein was lying on her couch and reading her book of that day when the doorbell rang. She headed out to answer it.

 

When she arrived at the door and opened it, she froze. Standing there was Yongsun with dark-glasses on her face and she was wrapped in a coat as she hugged herself. Yongsun looked so small.

 

“Hi,” the actress greeted as she put her glasses over her head. Her hair is a mess and her eyes are tired. “Can I come in?”

 

Without hesitation, Wheein stepped aside so Yongsun could enter. “Come in.”

 

Once they were in the living room, Yongsun looked at her, taking in her kind eyes and vulnerable expression.

 

“Eric and I were not actually together. When we were featured in a film, our companies suggested that we date to boost the film’s publicity. It worked, the film did incredibly well and soon both of us started getting more popular and we had more projects. And when I decided that we both can stop pretending and announced that we broke up, his fans went livid. They called me names, and even went to random places they knew I’d be. They are everywhere.” Yongsun buried her head in her hands. Wheein gently grabbed them with her own, squeezing them softly. And then the actress added, “I don’t know where to go. The hotel is surrounded.”

 

“This is just the place,” Wheein said and wrapped Yongsun in an embrace.

 

“They say horrible things to me,” Yongsun was very shaken. “They are so… They make me look like— “

 

“Don’t think about it. We’ll sort it out.” Wheein couldn’t help but cut in. “Now what would you like— coffee— bath?”

 

“A bath would be great,” The actress replied, snuggling into Wheein’s arms.

 

-

 

While Yongsun was in the bathroom, Wheein cleaned up a bit and prepared food for the both of them. She didn’t noticed Seulgi entering the apartment and the latter headed into the bathroom.

 

Seulgi heads for the toilet and undoes her zipper— 

 

“Hi, Seulgi-ah,” a voice caught her attention.

 

Yongsun was in the bathtub and Seulgi turned in shock. She, then, sneaked out of the room.

 

Seulgi calmed herself down, still very much wanting to pee. And then she opened the bathroom door again and looked in.

 

Yongsun was still lying low in the bath.

 

“Hi,” Yongsun greeted again, there was an amusement in her voice.

 

“Just checking.”

 

Seulgi come back out into the corridor. And stared at the ceiling.

 

“Oh my god.”

 

-

 

When Yongsun came to join Wheein, she was wearing a clean oversized yellow t-shirt and a pair of sweatpants that Wheein provided for her. She hadn’t really thought much of it, when she gave it to her. But now, she thinks that she looks better on it than she does.

 

“I made us something to eat,” Wheein took the plates and set them at the table. Yongsun sat down with a thankful smile. 

 

They started eating in silence. It wasn’t awkward, but it wasn’t that comfortable either. Well, on Wheein's side anyway.

 

“I’m really sorry about last time. He just flew in— “ Yongsun started, “I had no idea— I mean, it was just that I didn’t know how to react at that time.”

 

Wheein already wasn’t thrilled to recall that night, but she was surprised when Yongsun’s face mirrored hers at this conversation.

 

“No, that’s fine. It’s not often one has the opportunity to see two of the most popular people in the country in one room. It was a thrill for me,” Wheein said and Yongsun chuckled humorlessly. “How is he?”

 

“I don’t know. He did call me apologizing for his fans’ actions. But he really can’t do anything without the fear of losing them,” the actress rolled her eyes at that. After a moment, she asked, “And you… and love?”

 

“Well, there’s a question— “ Wheein shrugged, trying to be nonchalant. “— without an interesting answer.”

 

Yongsun looked into Wheein’s eyes then bit her bottom lip, “I miss you.”

 

Seeing only nothing but honesty in the actress’ eyes, Wheein reached over to take Yongsun’s hand which was resting on the table, “I miss you, too.” 

 

They let go, both looking at their plates, trying to hide their shyness.

 

“Just anytime I’ve tried to things normal with anyone normal— “ Yongsun continued, “it’s been a disaster.”

 

“I appreciate that absolutely,” Wheein said. She changed the subject, tactfully. “Is that the film you’re doing?” She asked, pointing at the script in the table.

 

“Yes— “ Yongsun smiled, appreciating Wheein’s effort of not getting into it more. “— starts in Seoul next week.”

 

“Would you like me to take you through your lines?” The actress’ face lit up after Wheein suggested it.

 

“Would you?” The actress tilted her head, Wheein found it incredibly adorable. “It’s all talk, talk, talk.”

 

“Hand it over,” Wheein cleared as she shook her head at her thought. “Basic plot?”

 

“I’m a difficult but brilliant junior officer who in about twenty minutes will save the world from nuclear disaster.”

 

Wheein playfully nodded, “Well done you.”

 

-

 

Wheein finished up cleaning the kitchen and joined Yongsun in the living room, who was comfortable sitting on the couch, script in her hand. She watched the actress for a while until Yongsun noticed her, which earned a light blush on her cheeks. Yongsun invited her to sit next to her. Wheein set the coffee on the table in front of them, and fully turned to face the actress.

 

Yongsun slightly frowned at her and playfully slapped the papers at Wheein. She told her to stop staring at her. The light blush on the actress’s face turned into a full-on blush. 

 

They went into the script with Wheein acting her heart out. And Yongsun would laugh at her attempt. She didn’t mind as it made the actress smile. Wheein thought, that maybe a little, she was helping.

 

When they were done, or when Wheein commented that her head felt like bursting from acting a bit too much, they settled on the couch. Yongsun situated herself besides her snuggling at her. It was incredibly comfortable and dare Wheein thought it was very domestic.

 

“I can’t believe you have that Fleetwood Mac record framed on your wall,” Yongsun pointed at the Rumour record.

 

“You like Fleetwood Mac?” 

 

“I do. Especially that album, despite all the drama behind it.”

 

“That actually what made it more intriguing, isn’t it?”

 

“Yes— “ Yongsun agreed as she reached out and put a hand on Wheein’s knee, “— and that was what made it more wonderful. The struggle before they created something beautiful.”

 

As the actress said those words, she leaned closer to Wheein. Their eyes met and closed the distance between them. They kissed slowly. Wheein felt Yongsun move and straddle her on the couch. She hummed in response and slowly wrapped her arms around the actress’ waist.

 

A sound of someone clearing was heard from the other side of the living room and they jumped away from each other.

 

Seulgi stood there, frowning a little, a box in her hand.

 

“I ordered pizza,” Seulgi said with a grimace as if trying to erase the image of them in her mind. Wheein laughed nervously while Yongsun pretended to read the script that magically appeared in her hand. She mumbled, “but you two seemed full already.”

 

“What are you doing outside your room anyway?” Wheein chose to ignore the last sentence. She should really talk to Byulyi about teaching Seulgi about these things. “I thought you were painting all night long.”

 

“Well, I was and I will. But I got hungry and I thought maybe we could share this,” Seulgi mumbled, looking at the food she brought. 

 

Wheein, unable to hold even a fake grudge at her friend, invited her to the empty spot of couch. She had to reassure Seulgi that nothing happened when she saw the hesitation in her face. 

 

They sat in silence at first, as Seulgi kept glaring at Yongsun. 

 

“You broke my roommate’s heart, you know that,” Seulgi mumbled. She took a bite on her pizza and tried to threaten the actress, which proved to be ineffective. Because she just looked like a harmless bear with puffed cheeks. “And if you do that again, I will follow you to Seoul and burn all your clothes. I once stole Joohyun-unnie’s favorite food when she was not looking when she broke up with Wheeinie.”

 

“And got scolded by Seungwan-unnie, because you made Joohyun-unnie cry. It was the last bite. She was saving it for last,” Wheein added, shaking her head.

 

Yongsun bit her lips to stifle that laugh that was threatening to escape. 

 

“Whatever. After that Joohyun-unnie never sat beside me whenever we ate. She’s scared of me now,” Seulgi said proudly, “So, if you hurt my friend again— “

 

“You’ll stole her last piece of pizza?” Wheein supplied before she could say more. Yongsun couldn’t help herself this time, when Seulgi crossed her arms and pouted.

 

“Hey, Seulgi-ah, sorry for laughing. You’re very scary,” Yongsun reassured her, patting her arm empathically. “So, please don’t steal my pizza.”

 

“That’s the reason?” Wheein asked jokingly. She put her hand to her chest, faking offense.

 

“Oh, definitely. I happened to love the pizza Seulgi bought. So I will be devastated if she takes it away.” 

 

The actress smiled at Wheein, who returned it while Seulgi nodded in satisfaction. They didn’t notice that she was observing the two of them and was happy that Wheein seemed happy. She decided to stand down, and took her own piece of pizza and offered it to Yongsun.

 

“You can have mine, too, if you love it very much.”

 

-

 

They finished eating and chatted the rest of the night away, until they were all yawning and finally decided to go to bed, besides Seulgi who first excused herself to continue her work. 

 

After much argument about the sleeping arrangement, Yongsun begrudgingly agreed to take Wheein’s room, while the latter sleeps on the couch. Wheein walked her to her room. She left but not without a kiss on the cheek and a soft ‘thank you’ from the actress.

 

As Wheein laid down on the couch, she replayed the events that day and cannot help but smile. All of these still seemed like a dream to her.

 

She was about to drift off when she heard a familiar voice.

 

“Hey,” Yongsun said, softly. “Are you asleep?”

 

“No, I mean I’m about to, but no,” Wheein heard a chuckle from the actress. She gets off the couch and glances at Yongsun, who was standing across the room. “Are you alright? Is my bed not comfortable? Do you need another blanket— “

 

Her rambling was put to a stop when Yongsun suddenly closed the distance between them and kissed her.

 

They kissed for a few moments, only breaking apart to catch their breath, both smiling contently. It didn’t take long before their kiss turned more aggressive.

 

Yongsun pushed her on the couch and deepened the kiss. Their position earlier mirrored their position now. The actress straddles Wheein again, her hands firmly on her neck as if anytime Wheein would break away. She tried to reassure her by wrapping her arm on the actress’ waist while Wheein sneaked the other one under the hem of Yongsun’s shirt, lightly touching her stomach. A muffled moan left the actress’ as Wheein moved to kiss her neck. And her shoulder. 

 

What a miracle it was just to be able to touch this woman’s skin let alone have her like this, Wheein thought. She leaned back just enough to see the actress’ face and was struck again by how beautiful Yongsun is.

 

“Wow.”

 

“What,” Yongsun asked, unable to stop her grin.

 

“Nothing,” Wheein said and looked away for a moment when the actress suddenly stared at her warmly. And then she kisses her again.

 

That night, Yongsun was asleep just a few inches apart from Wheein. In her sleep, the actress' arm reaches out for her, touching her shoulder, and then she snuggles in and re-settled herself, tenderly, right next to Wheein. She is not asleep yet, and wondered how extraordinary this all is.

 

-

 

The next morning, there was a rare comfort filling in her as Wheein opened her eyes. She buried her head to the pillow, intending to enjoy it to its fullest. But then she remembered what happened the night before, so she woke herself up.

 

“Good morning,” a whisper-soft voice beside Wheein said.

 

“Good morning,” Wheein glanced at Yongsun who was leaning back against the wall, pulling the sheet up to cover her body. She gave her a lazy smile. “It still strikes me as, well, surreal, that I’m allowed to see you like this.”

 

Yongsun chuckled at her comment, and gave her a light kiss on the cheek, “you still ramble even if you just woke up.”

 

Wheein shrugged and returned the kiss on the cheek too, “you are still lovelier than ever even when you just woke up.”

 

“Oh,” the actress said, there was a light blush present on her face. She looked at Wheein carefully before leaping out of the bed and grabbed her clothes to wear. Before Wheein could protest, she said, “I’ll be back.”

 

Wheein didn’t know how long Yongsun was gone as she drifted on and off to sleep until the actress came back with a tray of toast and coffee.

 

“Breakfast in bed. Or lunch, or brunch,” Yongsun supplied sheepishly. She headed across the bed and smiled. “I would have prepared something better, but this is all you have in the kitchen.”

 

The actress explained apologetically, as if it was her fault that Wheein and Seulgi forgot to get groceries again. She just smiled, and pulled Yongsun in for a kiss.

 

“Thank you,” Wheein said against Yongsun’s lips as she took the tray from her.

 

“Can I stay a bit longer?”

 

“Stay forever.” The reply came automatically, full of honesty and affection and something else they both not ready to name yet, but it is there.

 

Yongsun smiled, and leaned in for another kiss. They pulled away from each other briefly when the doorbell rang. They ignored it at first and returned to kissing. They only stopped when there was a loud knock.

 

“Seriously, Wheein-ah! Stop making out and answer the door, please!” Seulgi yelled, from her own room. 

 

“Alright, alright!” Wheein yelled back as disentangled herself from Yongsun. 

 

She headed to the door, after getting something decent to wear, and then opened it. But she immediately regretted it when she was met by lots of paparazzi, an explosion of cameras and questions, and of noise and light. The press seemed to fill the entire hallway.

 

“Jesus Christ,” Wheein muttered once the door was closed. 

 

She came back inside and found Yongsun face pale with worry. The actress was on a phone call and quickly put it down when she saw her.

 

“I gotta go,” Yongsun frantically said and ran to Wheein’s bedroom, gathering her belongings. 

 

“Unnie… “ Wheein trailed off, worried. She watched her put on her coat from yesterday. “I don’t know what happened.”

 

“Don’t,” Yongsun said. She finished packing her things and made her way to the door, Wheein in tow.

 

“I’m so sorry. Please— “

 

“This is such a mess,” Yongsun cried out. “I come to you to protect myself against more gossip and now I’m landed in it all over again.”

 

“Let’s calm down, alright? Just stay here until they are all gone. Stay here with me.” Wheein tried and failed to stop the emotion in her voice. Yongsun stopped when she heard that and she was surprised when Wheein saw tear in the actress’ eyes.

 

“This is just a dream, Wheein-ah. I’m sorry.” Yongsun smiled sadly, wiping her tears before putting on her sunglasses on and left.

 

The door shut in and Yongsun was gone. 

 

-

 

Six months had passed. Six month without hearing anything from Yongsun. It was a blur. All those months.

 

Seasons went by and Wheein vaguely aware of them. She thought of Yongsun of course. It was impossible not to. Not Yongsun the biggest star of South Korea, just Yongsun who smiles at her rambling, who loves her hideous sweatshirt, who laughs with her friends’ bad jokes. 

 

Wheein was sitting at her desk in Magnolia Vinyl, reading her book of the day when Hyejin rushes in the shop with a panting Seulgi. 

 

She barely had time to greet them before Hyejin was shoving her phone at her.

 

“How is that Solar Kim wearing our dumb loser crew shirt on set of her film?” 

 

Wheein’s heart skipped when she saw the image of Yongsun, looking as beautiful as ever, walking the streets, sunglasses on her face and a very familiar shirt under the leather jacket she wore when they first met.

 

That didn’t mean anything, Wheein reasons with herself. Maybe what Yongsun said about the sweatshirt being comfortable on her was true. But it doesn’t matter anymore, isn’t it? It was just a piece of clothing. There was no meaning to it.

 

“It’s nothing. She needed a clean shirt and I let her borrow it. She just never had a chance to gave it back.” Wheein shrugged.

 

Hyejin fell silent until she calmed down, “that was taken just a day ago. She’s here, by the way. You can see or something.”

 

“Well, thanks,” Wheein let out a dry laugh. “That’s great. I’ll think about it.

 

Her best friend stared at her for a few moments before sighing, “that’s great, isn’t it. See you tonight. Hey, Sooyoung-ah.” 

 

Hyejin waved good bye to Sooyoung, Seulgi did too, but she was more shy about it, before rushing out of the shop as fast as they came in.

 

Wheein took a deep breath as she went back to reading. She couldn’t help but pull up her phone and search for that photo. She stared at it. Wheein silently cursed because that stupid shirt really did look good on Yongsun.

 

-

 

That night, all their friends gathered at Seungwan’s apartment. 

 

“I have an announcement to make— “ Joohyun said, clapping her hand to get everyone’s attention. “— I would make it brief because I know you guys want to get drunk already. Seungwan and I decided to adopt.” She reached out on Seungwan’s hand which the latter returned with a soft smile.

 

Everyone in the room cheered and said their congratulations. They all throw questions at the couple. Seungwan and Joohyun tried to answer it all once.

 

“We are still in the early stage of planning and it will take a while since Joohyun-unnie needs to finish school first, but we’ll all let you know,” Seungwan replied. There was happiness written all over the couple’s faces and Wheein thinks that they deserve that.

 

They toast to the couple. 

 

“Since it’s an evening of announcements… “ Sooyoung cleared and stood up. “I’ve also got one. I’ve already got a girlfriend.”

 

What she just said caught everyone’s attention, especially Seulgi.

 

“I’ve found myself a nice, slightly dense but good looking girl who I know is going to make me happy for the rest of my life.” Sooyoung continued. There was a resoluteness in her voice, like all she said was the unchangeable truth.

 

“Wait a minute— “ Wheein can’t help but look at Seulgi, who was stunned and heartbroken. Trying to know the identity of this person, to maybe… she doesn't actually know she is as threatening as Seulgi was. “I’m with you everyday and I don’t know anything about this?”

 

“Is it someone we know?” Seungwan asked, who kept glancing at the crestfallen Seulgi, too.

 

“Yes,” Sooyoung replied nonchalantly. As she sat down, Sooyoung turned towards Seulgi and said, “It’s you, by the way. It is taking you too long so I might as well jump into it.”

 

There were many emotions playing like a movie in Seulgi’s face when Sooyoung told her that. Everyone witnessed the exchange and stifled their laughter.

 

“Any more announcements?” Seungwan finally inquired after their friend was done laughing at Seulgi's expense.

 

“Yes— “ Wheein stood up. She glanced around the table with an apologetic smile on her. “I feel I must apologize to everyone for my behavior for the last few months. I have, as you know, been slightly down.”

 

“There’s an understatement.” Byulyi interjected. “There are dead people in better form.”

 

Wheein rolled her eyes, good-naturedly, “But I wish to make it clear I’ve turned a corner and intend to be happy in the future.”

 

-

 

Two hours later. They’ve had a very good time. There was a chocolate cake and lots of alcohol. Hyejin was playing a song on the piano, and Seulgi and Byulyi joined her, singing. 

 

At one table Joohyun and Sooyoung sit— beer and wine on the table.

 

“I’m really horribly drunk,” Sooyoung said, her eyes uncontrollably closing.

 

On the couch, Wheein and Seungwan were relaxing together.

 

“So— “ Seungwan started, “you’ve laid the ghost.”

 

Wheein took a sip on her beer before speaking, “I believe I have.”

 

“Don’t give a damn about the famous girl.”

 

“No, don’t think I do,” Wheein supplied, unconvincingly.

 

“Which means you won’t be distracted by the fact that she’s back in Jeonju, grasping for another award, and to be found filming most days around here.”

 

Seungwan showed her phone with an article opened with a picture of Yongsun on it.

 

“Oh god no.” Wheein said gloomily, covering her face with her hands.

 

“So not over her, in fact.

 

-

 

The next day, Wheein woke up with a purpose. She called Sooyoung and told her to open up the shop on her own and that she might be late. Moved by some unknown force inside her, she decided to go to the filming site that was written on the article Seungwan showed her last night.

 

She marched up the hill and went over the summit of it and saw a huge film crew and hundreds of extras in front of the radiant blue house, with its lawn and its lakes.

 

Wheein marched closer to the house. As she approached the barrier, security stopped her.

 

“Can I help you?” The security asked, looking suspiciously at her.

 

“Yes— “ Wheein is kinda scared of the big figure in front of her. “I was looking for Yong— Solar Kim?”

 

“Does she know you’re coming?”

 

“No, no. She doesn’t.”

 

“I’m afraid I can’t really let you through then, ma’am.”

 

Which is fair, Wheein thinks. The security was just doing his job.

 

But still, Wheein tried again. “Oh right. I mean, I am a friend— “ unsuccessfully. “— I’m not a sasaeng fan or something— “

 

“— I can’t let you through.” But the security did not budge. Wheein sighed defeatedly.

 

At that moment, a few steps away, Wheein heard a trailer door open. Out of it comes Yongsun looking extraordinary, in a velvet dress, full with beautiful make-up and with extravagant hair. She has a necessary cluster of people around her. Hair, make-up, costume and her assistant who collected her.

 

Yongsun walks a few steps, and then casually turns her head. And she sees Wheein. The actress’ face registered not just surprised, certainly not thrilled either. She realized her being here was a complicated thing.

 

But still, Wheein did a small wave. Yongsun paused before she began to make her way towards her. When Yongsun reached her, the security stood back, and the people around her as well. 

 

“This is certainly… “ Yongsun doesn’t really know what to say.

 

“I only found out you were here yesterday,” Wheein filled in the conversation.

 

“I was going to call you… “ There was a frown and clear frustration on Yongsun’s face. “But… I didn’t think you’d want to… “

 

Her assistant, Yeri, butted in. 

 

“Unnie,” there was an urgency in the assistant’s voice. 

 

Yongsun looked around. There are a few film crew approaching them.

 

“It’s not going very well— “ Yongsun said when she regarded Wheein again. “And it’s our last day.”

 

“Absolutely— “ Wheein sort of felt stupid for not considering Yongsun’s situation. “You’re clearly very busy. I’m going to take my leave.”

 

Yongsun seemed like she was about to say something but was swept away by the people around her. They were calling her attention. 

 

In that moment, Wheein could see now. She was right. Their lives couldn’t be more different, and mixing them was a complete disaster. This is just a dream, Yongsun's words echoed in her mind. And they had proven again and again.

 

With one last look at Yongsun, she took a step back. She tried not to brood over it and forced herself to not turn around again.

 

-

 

Wheein found it incredibly hard to leave her bed the next morning. She could not sleep the whole night as her mind kept running on the thought of Solar Kim. And when she finally felt herself drifting to sleep, it was time to go to work.

 

She took a sip of her coffee and read. She tried to keep distracted as she couldn't register the words that were written in the book. 

 

So instead, Wheein focused on work and was doing the account in a dark small space in the far corner of the shop. 

 

“I have to disturb you when you’re far in math,” Sooyoung popped her head in, “but there’s a delivery.”

 

“Sooyoung-ah, can’t you just deal with this yourself?” Wheein rubbed her forehead. She can already feel a headache coming.

 

“But it’s not for the shop,” Sooyoung argued. She seemed uncharacteristically excited. “It’s for you.”

 

“Okay, then.”

 

They head out of the corner of the shop, Sooyoung behind her, incomprehensibly giggling— she’s in a very good mood.

 

When Wheein arrived at her destination, she saw Yongsun standing there, seemingly too nervous. The actress was wearing a simple black shirt and jeans. 

 

“Hi, Wheein-ah,” Yongsun smiled shyly.

 

“Hello, Yongsun-unnie,” Wheein said as she moved to stand in front of the actress.

 

“I was going to invite you to the set but you left all of a sudden.” Yongsun had a small frown on her face.

 

“Yes— I’m sorry— I had to leave… “ Wheein trailed off, looking down before meeting the actress’ eyes again. “I didn’t want to disturb you.” 

 

“Well… how have you been?”

 

“Fine. Everything is much the same. Whereas you… I watched in wonder. Awards, glory… “

 

“Oh no. It’s all nonsense, believe me. I had no idea how much nonsense it all was— “ Yongsun chuckled lightly, but it felt forced. She seemed nervous. “Well, yesterday was our last day of filming and so I’m just off— but I brought you this from home, and… “ the actress waved at a wrapped parcel placed on the top of Wheein’s desk. “I thought I’d give it to you.”

 

“Thank you. Shall I… “ Wheein said, motioned to grab the package but was stopped by Yongsun.

 

“No, don’t open it yet— “ There was a slight blush on the actress’ cheeks. “I’ll be embarrassed.”

 

“Okay, well, thank you. I don’t know what it’s for. But thank you anyway.”

 

“I actually had it in my apartment in Seoul and just thought you’d… “ Yongsun started rambling. Wheein would have found it incredibly adorable if they weren’t in the current situation. “… but, when it came to it, I didn’t know how to call you… having behaved so badly, twice. So it’s been just sitting in the hotel. But then… you came, so I figured… the thing is… the thing is… “

 

“What’s the thing?” Wheein wondered in anticipation.

 

Before Yongsun could answer, Sooyoung approached them.

 

“Excuse me— it’s your mother on the phone.” Sooyoung looked at Wheein before taking a peak at Yongsun. 

 

“Can you tell her I’ll call her back, please,” Wheein supplied.

 

“I actually said that— “ Sooyoung said sheepishly and somewhat apologetic. “But she said you said that before and it’s been twenty-four hours, and that her television is not opening and she can’t watch her shows so… “

 

“Okay— “ Wheein took a deep breath. “Perfect timing as ever.” She rolled her eyes before turning to Sooyoung. “Hold the fort for a second will you, Sooyoung-ah.”

 

Sooyoung was left with Yongsun. She attempted to offer her hand to shake but quickly remembered she was holding a few records. She went to set it on the desk. She is studying the actress.

 

“Can I just say, I thought ‘Parasite’ was a wonderful film.”

 

“Is that right?” Yongsun raised her eyebrow at that.

 

“Yes… “ Sooyoung continued to study Yongsun. “I’ve always wondered what Song Kangho-nim is like in real life.”

 

“I can’t say I know Kangho-sunbaenim all that well?” There was an amusement in her voice.

 

“Oh dear,” Sooyoung frowned. “He wasn’t friendly during the filming? I always thought he looked like my father.”

 

“Well, no— “ Yongsun smiled softly at Sooyoung. “I’m sure your father is a good man,” she was convinced that what she said was true. “But Sodamie did say he’s friendly on set. She’s the one who acted with him in ‘Parasite.’”

 

Realization don on Sooyoung’s face, before she apologized. “Oh right. Right. Sorry. Always bad at remembering faces.”

 

“Sooyoung-ah,” Wheein returned, a little uneasy. “Could you go be anywhere but here for a bit?”

 

“Oh, yes. Unnie.” Sooyoung glanced between the two of them. “Anyway… It’s lovely to meet you. I’m a great fan of yours. And Sodam-nim’s, of course.”

 

Sooyoung grabbed the records earlier at the desk and made her way back to the shop.

 

An awkward silence set back in once they were alone again.

 

“You were saying… “ Wheein trailed off.

 

Yongsun cleared and continued. “Yes. The thing is… I have to go away today but I wondered, if I didn’t, whether you might let me see you a bit… or, a lot maybe… see if you could… “ the actress’ voice sounded small, her eyes glanced to the ground, almost reluctant. “… like me again.” 

 

Wheein didn’t know how to process this information. 

 

“Yongsun-unnie, look— “ Wheein can’t really express what she feels. But she saw the vulnerability in Yongsun's eyes. “I’m a fairly level-headed person. Not often in and out of love. But… “ She took a deep breath, considering her words before answering. “I do care about you so much. But can I just say ’no’ to your kind request and leave it like that?”

 

The actress was stunned. “… Yes, that’s fine.” Yongsun smiled, but it was sad. “Of course. I— you know— of course. I’ll just be getting along then… Nice to see you.”

 

“The truth is… “ Wheein can’t help but explain herself, unable to hide the sadness behind it. “… with you, I feel like I am not strong enough. It was like a perfect situation, apart from that job of yours. But I don’t think my heart would recover If I was once again cast aside, which is inevitable. I can’t take that again. There are too many pictures of you everywhere, too many films. You’d go and I’d be, well, broken, basically.”

 

“I see,” Yongsun simply said, her eyes welling up with tears mirroring Wheein. “That reality is a real ‘no,’ isn’t it?”

 

“Everyone in the world knows who you are.”

 

There was a pause. Yongsun seemed unsure for a moment but then said, “the fame thing isn’t really real, you know. Don’t forget— “ she wiped her tears. “I’m also just any other girl. Standing in front of someone she cares about. Asking her to love her.”

 

Wheein was taken aback but nodded lightly. Yongsun took a step forward and kissed her on the cheek. 

 

“Bye, for real this time,” Yongsun whispered, lips almost brushing Wheein’s.

 

The actress gave her one last smile before leaving Wheein's life, again. 

 

-

 

“What do you think? Good move?”

 

Wheein looked around her friends. They were in her record shop after she called everyone for an emergency meeting. They all immediately came in knowing that she wasn’t the person who would call on them unless it was in utmost importance.

 

She just told them about her encounter with Yongsun earlier.

 

“I think it was a sensible decision,” Joohyun offered, always the rational one of her friends.

 

“Good move,” Byulyi agreed after a moment, wrapping an arm around Wheein’s shoulder. “When all is said and done, she’s nothing special. It’s… probably for the best. It wasn’t easy for us to watch you brood for months because of her.”

 

“Good decision,” Sooyoung supplied. “All actresses are mad snakes.”

 

“Hyejin— “ Wheein turned to her best friend, who was frowning lightly. “What do you think?”

 

Hyejin hesitated at first, but sighed, “Absolutely?”

 

“Brilliant. Seungwan-unnie?” 

 

“Never trust a beautiful woman,” Seungwan said. which earned a smack on her arm by Joohyun.

 

“Great. Excellent. Thanks.”

 

Suddenly, Seulgi entered the shop panting. 

 

“Sorry, I just read the messages.” Seulgi asked distractedly as she catch her breath. “What happened?”

 

“Wheeinie has just turned down Solar Kim,” Byulyi explained. 

 

Seulgi suddenly stared in bewilderment at Wheein, before glancing around their friends and turned back at Wheein again. 

 

“Are you stupid?” 

 

Everyone was taken aback at Seulgi’s outburst. Never had they heard their friend say something like that to another person. And to be honest, Wheein was sort of hurt but pleased at those words. Wheein opened to speak but Seulgi continued. 

 

“You’ve been brooding over Yongsun-unnie for months and when she finally says she wants to be together, you get cold feet?”

 

“I— “ Wheein was dumbfounded. She crossed her arms, composing herself. “I didn’t— I thought you were on my side! You even threatened to burn all her clothes!”

 

“I am on your side! That’s why I think you are being an idiot. I saw the way she looked at you. It was as equally disgusting as when Wannie stares at Joohyun-unnie.” Seulgi stared at Wheein, crossing her arms, too.

 

“You’re incredibly attractive right now,” Sooyoung sighed. “But Seulgi-unnie, that’s enough.”

 

“Okay, okay,” Seulgi said, pouting a little. She calmed down a bit before she asked, “I just have one question for Wheeinie. Do you want to be with her?”

 

“Of course, I do,” Wheein answered immediately. That’s the one thing that has never changed, no matter what happened. She was sure about that.

 

All her friends nodded before Hyejin casually looked at the Fleetwood Mac record that sits besides Wheein. It was the same album from Wheein’s living room wall.

 

“That record was one of your favorites, is it?” Hyejin asked, or more like a statement.

 

“Yes. I think it was signed by the artists’ themselves.”

 

“But she said she wanted to go out with you?” Seungwan wondered, staring at the record, too.

 

“Yes... “ Wheein said, bashful. “Sort of— “

 

“That’s nice,” Joohyun interrupted.

 

“What?” Wheein raised an eyebrow.

 

“You know, anybody saying they want to go out with you without being creepy about it is… “ Joohyun shrugged. “… pretty great, isn’t it?”

 

“It was sort of sweet actually— “ Wheein admitted. “I mean, I know she’s an actress and all that, so she can deliver a line. But she said that might be as famous as she can be— but also… that was just just any other girl, standing in front of someone she cares about, asking her to love her.”

 

They all took in everything Wheein said. There was silence until she spoke up again.

 

“Oh my god. I’ve made the wrong decision, haven’t I?” Wheein groaned, ruffling her hair.

 

They all stared at Wheein before nodding.

 

“Did anyone bring their car?”

 

-

 

They all rushed out of the record shop once Seungwan’s car arrived in the street outside. They piled into the car. Joohyun grabbed Seungwan out of the driver seat and offered herself to drive. Everyone for a second was scared, but they figured if they want to get to their destination quickly, they need to trust Joohyun to get them there alive.

 

When they were settled in the car, they realized they didn't know where they were going.

 

There was a pause, until Joohyun rolled her eyes and yelled at them to google where Yongsun is right now. 

 

“Well, this article an hour ago says that she was still in the Velvet Hotel?” Hyejin offered the information.

 

“Okay— “ Joohyun stretched her arms. “Velvet Hotel it is.”

 

The car is shooting up the corner of the market street.

 

“Where are you going?” Seungwan asked, a little pale from the chaotic driving.

 

“Down the market street, then right at the park.” Joohyun said quickly, focused on her task.

 

“Nope! Go left along— “

 

“That’s right— “ Byulyi agreed.

 

“Or you could go straight right down— “  Sooyoung supplied.

 

“No!” Wheein exclaimed.

 

Suddenly the car slammed to a halt. There were cars behind them honking but they ignored it.

 

“Stop right here! I will decide the route. All right?” Wheein said in frustration.

 

“All right.” They all shouted in chorus.

 

“Vin Diesel never has to put up with this sort of shi— “ Sooyoung muttered.

 

-

 

The car turned illegally, turned right across the park the wrong way down a one-way street and ended up outside the Velvet Hotel. Wheein sprint into the hotel with Seungwan in tow.

 

“Bloody hell, this is fun,” Seungwan said, running as she followed Wheein.

 

Once they arrived at the front desk of the hotel. Wheein asked the employee behind it.

 

“Is Solar-ssi staying here?”

 

The employee looked at awe, raising an eyebrow. There was a glint of recognition in his eyes. “No, ma’am.”

 

“How about Yongsun-ssi?”

 

“No, ma’am.”

 

“Or Kim-ssi…. “ Wheein had to try. “Or I don’t know, Yeri-ssi or something?”

 

The employee shook her head. “No, ma’am.”

 

“Right. Right. Fair enough. Thanks,” Wheein said, dejected. She took two steps when the employee stopped her in her tracks.

 

“There was a Magnolia-ssi in room 619 but she checked out an hour ago. I believe she’s holding a press conference at the MMM restaurant before going back to Seoul.”

 

Wheein was very grateful and kissed the employee on the cheek. Seungwan’s also grateful. She kissed him, too.

 

“We have a new destination! MMM restaurant!” Seungwan yelled, once they arrived at the car.

 

The car speeds through the streets. It gets totally stuck at a junction where no one will let them in.

 

“The things I do for my roommate,” Seulgi mumbled before she got out of the car and boldly stopped the traffic coming in the opposite direction. 

 

Their car shoots past the traffic.

 

“Go,” Seulgi yelled, a little too excited for someone in the middle of the street.

 

They left her behind but not before Sooyoung leaned out of the window and shouted, “you’re so hot!”

 

-

 

Wheein was out of the car before it even came to a full stop, when they arrived at the restaurant. She rushed inside and to the main desk.

 

“Excuse me, where’s the press conference?”

 

“Are you an accredited member of the press?”

 

“Yes… “ Wheein said, and flashed the employee of the front desk a card. “I’m from Magnolia Weekly.”

 

“That’s a credit card, ma’am,” The employee replied, not sparing her a second look as she went back to her task.

 

Wheein looked around. For what, she wasn’t sure. She doubted Yongsun would be roaming a hall full of fans and journalists. And yet, her eyes did land on a familiar figure.

 

“Hey, Yeri-ssi!” She called the assistant. 

 

“Do I know you?” Yeri looked at her. Despite what she said, Wheein saw a glint of recognition from the assistant.

 

“I’m Jung Wheein from Magnolia Weekly.” Wheein gave her the friendliest smile she could muster. “I was wondering if I could do a follow-up interview with Solar-ssi.”

 

“You know, you’re making my job incredibly hard.” Yeri sighed.

 

The assistant approached the main desk and talked to the employee. After a few seconds, Yeri looked at her and gave her a slight nod.

 

Wheein took everything in her not to hug the assistant but decided against it because she had more pressing matters to attend to. She heard her friends following behind her not before they all shouted, “we are from Magnolia Weekly, too!” 

 

With that Wheein ran and searched. She felt like she was holding her breath as she ran through the hallway. And at last, she finds the room and enters.

 

And Wheein was greeted by a huge room, full of press. Row after row of journalists, cameras at the front, TV cameras at the back. Solar Kim clearly gives press conferences very rarely, because this one seems positively presidential, she thought. 

 

Wheein saw Yongsun sitting at a table at the end of the room. She nodded towards the questions and answered it with confidence. And oh god. Wheein loves her.

 

The thought came naturally and the terror she expected at this realization only lasted a second. It was immediately replaced by a sense of warmth. Wheein is in love with Yongsun, of course she did. She felt so stupid for even doubting that even for a second.

 

“How much longer are you staying in Jeonju then?” One of the journalists asked.

 

“Not at all. I am going back to Seoul tonight.” Yongsun is lightly melancholic and therefore in an honest mood.

 

“Which is why we have to round it up now.” One of Yongsun’s assistants, the one Wheein saw in the film set yesterday. “Final questions.”

 

The assistant pointed at one of the journalists.

 

“Is your decision to take a year off having anything to do with the rumors Eric Nam’s fans were telling about you.”

 

“Absolutely not,” Yongsun answered. Wheein observed that she was not bothered by it anymore. “It’s not really something that I can control. And in my experience, whatever I say won’t change the preconceived opinion they already have about me.”

 

The journalists love the answer, and all scribbled in their notes. Next question comes from someone straight right next to Wheein.

 

“Last time you were here, there were some rumors about you and a young local girl— so what happened there.”

 

“She was just a friend— “ Yongsun smiled. “I think we’re still friends.”

 

Wheein raised her hand up after the answer. The assistant pointed at her.

 

“Yes— “ Wheein cleared . “Solar-ssi, are there any circumstances in which you might be more than just friends?”

 

The actress glanced at her direction when she recognized her voice. She stared into her eyes for a moment before giving Wheein a bittersweet smile. “I hope there might be. But no, I’m assured there aren’t.”

 

“And what would you say— “ Wheein added, before she was interrupted.

 

“No, it’s just one question per person.” 

 

“No, let her,” Yongsun said, looking hopefully at Wheein. “Ask away. You were saying?”

 

“Yes, I wondered if it turned out that this… person… “ Wheein trailed off. 

 

One of the journalists whispered to her, “Her name is Jung Wheein.”

 

“Thanks.” Wheein nodded at the journalist before turning back to Yongsun. “I just wondered if Wheein-ssi realized she’s been stupid and got down on her knees and begged you to reconsider, whether you would… reconsider.” 

 

“Yes, I’m pretty sure I would.”

 

“That’s very good news. The readers of Magnolia Weekly will be absolutely delighted.” Wheein had a small, careful smile of her own on her lips.

 

Yongsun shook her head before bursting out a laugh, surprising all the occupants of the room. She turned to her assistant and whispered something before looking at Wheein again, smiling. 

 

“That one journalist,” the assistant pointed at someone. “If you’d like to ask your question again?”

 

“Yes, Solar-ssi, how long are you intending to stay here in Jeonju?”

 

There was a pause. Yongsun stood up from her seat and slowly headed to Wheein's direction. There were murmurs around her, but her focus was only on the actress who was walking towards her.

 

Once Yongsun was standing in front of her, the actress fixed Wheein’s hair before she slowly grabbed Wheein’s face, pulling her in. And they were kissing.

 

Wheein was faintly aware of the screams around, the clicking sounds of the cameras taking pictures of them and the loud cheer from her friends. All she could feel were Yongsun’s lips on her own, hands holding her firmly, as if she were afraid to let go.

 

When they parted, Yongsun seemed to suddenly remember where they were and hid her face in Wheein’s neck, as if that could hide her from the world around them. Wheein laughed, uncaring of anything other than Yongsun’s warmth. She felt the actress shift a little and whisper something in her ear, so soft she wondered if she’d imagined it. 

 

“Indefinitely.”

 

[Cue She - Elvis Costello]

 

THE END