Final

 

After two years, Joohyun is finally back in Korea. She was expecting that she would still take another two years, but since the merger of HW Entertainment and her previous company turned out to be a success, all things were settled easily. 

 

She didn't tell anyone that she'll be coming home today, not even to Seulgi or Yerim. She wanted to surprise them, and most especially, Seungwan.

 

She thinks it was a good thing that she decided to talk with Seungwan about them before she left Korea two years ago. It was like a closure. If it was a television drama, that talk served as the conclusion to close a storyline. Their two years apart would be the season break. And now that Joohyun is back and healed from all her pain, she is ready to start her new story with Seungwan.

 

During those two years, Seungwan was patient and understanding enough to give Joohyun all the space she needed. Both focused on fixing themselves, they chose not to contact each other, not even once. But of course, Joohyun was confident that Seungwan was waiting for her return. After all, the younger girl told her she definitely would. And Joohyun believes her. 

 

Besides, there were Seulgi and Yerim who would talk with her on the phone from time to time, and sometimes the two would mention Seungwan's name once in a while. 

 

From her two friends, Joohyun learned that Seungwan is now working as a professor for university students at one famous music academy for almost a year now. A few months after Joohyun left, Seungwan continued on with her therapies until she was finally able to sing a little again. Joohyun couldn't be more happy when Seulgi told her that. In fact, that good news even made her tear up. She remembered the image of a crying Seungwan she saw one time at the company’s training room. Seeing Seungwan looking so helpless and hopeless broke Joohyun’s heart and she fought every inch of her being not to barge in inside and hug Seungwan tight. That’s why when she heard the news that Seungwan has started singing again, Joohyun was beyond happy and proud. It motivated her to do her best as well, knowing that Seungwan was also doing her part on the other side of the world.

 

Joohyun takes a deep breath. She was now standing outside the music academy where Seungwan is teaching, and her heart kept racing in both anxiety and excitement. She makes her way inside and after asking a couple of people, she finally finds Seungwan inside one of the classrooms. 

 

The younger girl is now sporting a shoulder-length, blonde hair, making her more beautiful in Joohyun's eyes. Seungwan is talking to her students with a smile on her face and Joohyun felt her heart swoon at the sight. She thinks she has seen all kinds of Seungwan. The scared and cute little Seungwan, the naughty and brave Seungwan, the Seungwan who always hums a song whenever she cooks, the Seungwan who grins proudly as she hands Joohyun her self-made bubble tea, the Seungwan who sings with confidence, the crying Seungwan, the Seungwan who felt like she had just lost everything, and many other more. But a happy and smiling Seungwan would always be Joohyun's favorite. 

 

The sound of the bell ringing pulled Joohyun out of her thoughts. From outside the classroom, she watched as Seungwan dismissed her class. 

 

"Okay, so that signals the end of our class."

 

The students groan in unison, one that Joohyun didn't expect. 

 

But as she realized that the reaction was because they don't want their class with Seungwan to end which only means that Seungwan is doing a great job, Joohyun felt proud and was grinning to herself. 

 

"You kids, really." Seungwan laughs, shaking her head. "Anyway, any more questions?"

 

One teenage girl raised her hand. "Ssaem, are you free this weekend? My sister is asking about you again. She really wants to go out with you, even just once."

 

What the hell. Joohyun frowns.

 

"Eh Yunjin, just tell your sister that ssaem is not interested." A boy from the back row answered instead. "Ssaem! Why don't you go out with me instead?"

 

"Yah, Eunho, do you want ssaem to be suspended?" Another girl said. "It's prohibited."

 

"But ssaem is only a few years older than me. Besides, we're already graduating next year."

 

"Then wait until you graduate." Yunjin countered. "For now, it's better for ssaem to go out with my eonnie."

 

Another student raised her hand. "Wait. How about Sua seonsaengnim? I heard she was pretty much interested in our ssaem."

 

"Oh, that's right!" The class cheered.

 

"Guys. I'm still here, you know." Seungwan finally spoke, silencing the class. "And I've already told you, I already have a girlfriend."

 

Joohyun sees Seungwan blush and she couldn't help but blush as well. 

 

"Ssaem, I know you're only telling us that so we would stop pestering you to go on dates." Eunho answered. 

 

"He's right, ssaem." A boy named Daehan agreed. "We know that you don't really have a girlfriend."

 

Joohyun raised her brow as she listened. She chuckles amusingly. Kids nowadays.

 

"What?" Seungwan lets out an exaggerated sigh. "What makes you think I'm lying to you guys?"

 

"Ssaem, we're not saying you're lying." Yunjin answered, chuckling. "What we meant is that we think you're just making an excuse not to go on dates."

 

"But I'm not." Seungwan pouts. "I really have a girlfriend."

 

"Then where is she?" A girl named Jihyo joined in. "We've known you for a year now, ssaem, and we never once saw your girlfriend."

 

"That's right, ssaem." The rest of the class nodded her head.

 

"And even during your birthday or white day, the only one who gave you flowers and chocolates were us, your beloved students." Eunho added. 

 

Seungwan shakes her head with a chuckle. "What are you even all trying to point out here?"

 

"We just want you to go on dates, ssaem." Yunjin answered. 

 

"What?" Seungwan laughs. "Why?"

 

"Because we want someone to take care of you, ssaem."

 

"Well, that's sweet of you guys, but I assure you that I can take care of myself well."

 

"Yes, we know, ssaem. But isn't it more happy when you have someone?"

 

Seungwan playfully rolls her eyes. "And I've already told you, I already have someone."

 

Listening to the ongoing conversation inside Seungwan's class, Joohyun smiled amusingly. Seungwan would always tell her that she's the most beautiful person she had ever seen, but it would always be Seungwan who makes people fall for easily. Joohyun couldn't argue though. Seungwan has a different charm that gravitates people towards her. 

 

The scene before her made Joohyun remember something that happened a long time ago. Something that made her finally cross the thin line between love and friendship. 

--

Joohyun was a university freshman when she and Seungwan had their first real and major fight. 

 

As Joohyun went out of the campus gate with her classmates, she saw Seungwan waiting for her outside. She realized that ever since Seungwan saw her being bullied outside her school when they were still kids, it has already become the younger girl's habit to wait for Joohyun outside her school once her class ended. And until now that Joohyun is already a university student, Seungwan never failed to wait for her outside her school.

 

"Ooh.. As expected, your girlfriend is here." One of her classmates , to which Joohyun could only shake her head with a shy smile, never confirming nor denying the accusation. 

 

She and Seungwan had been inseparable for ten years now, four years since they started living together on their own. But they've never put any label to what they have or to what they are to each other. 

 

As they reach Seungwan, the younger girl greets her classmates with a smile.

 

"You guys go ahead first. I'll follow in a couple of minutes." Joohyun told her classmates.

 

"Alright. See you later, Joohyun."

 

"Oh. You're going somewhere, Hyunnie?" Seungwan asked as her classmates went away.

 

"Hm." Joohyun hums and massages her temple. She's feeling tired and she could feel a headache coming. "We're going to do a project. Haven't you read my message?"

 

Seungwan shakes her head. "My phone died on the way here."

 

"I see." Joohyun nods. "You can go home first, and you don't have to wait for me. I might be coming home late."

 

"Where are you going, Hyunnie? Where would you and your classmates do your project?"

 

"At my classmate's apartment. It's just a few meters walk from here."

 

"And how many of you are gonna be there? Are they your friends too? Or classmates only?"

 

"There would be five of us, and three of them are my friends."

 

"Guys? Girls?"

 

Joohyun sighs. "Two boys."

 

"Oh, okay. Are they harmless, Hyunnie? What time would you be home anyway?"

 

Seungwan has the tendency to be like this. Joohyun thinks it's the younger girl's protectiveness and really, she finds it thoughtful and sweet. But there were times when Joohyun felt that Seungwan was overdoing it, and oftentimes, Joohyun would just laugh about it. But today, Joohyun couldn't find it in her to laugh anymore. Her part-time job ended late last night that she had only a few hours to sleep before going to school. She has been working for four straight nights now and in addition to that, there are many homeworks and projects to settle in school. Joohyun has been feeling tired all week now that's why her mood has been grumpy lately, and right now, she just couldn't hold it anymore.

 

"Seungwan, just go home. I'll be fine."

 

"But Hyunnie, I still need to know-"

 

"Seungwan, please. Just this once, could you please stop asking all these stupid questions."

 

The way Seungwan gasped made Joohyun think that her words were too much. Still, she was already in a sour mood to back down.

 

"How could you say they're stupid, Hyunnie? I just want to make sure you're safe." 

 

"And I already told you that I'll be fine. Seriously, Seungwan, you're just asking too much sometimes and it's not even helping."

 

"But I'm just worried-"

 

"You're being overprotective!"

 

"And it's wrong?"

 

"Yes! You're being overprotective when you're not even my girlfriend!"

 

"But I thought.."

 

Joohyun saw the hurt flashed in Seungwan's eyes and that was how Joohyun confirmed that Seungwan has feelings for her. Well, it's not that she has no idea about it. They have never talked of their feelings before but Joohyun has always felt that the younger girl already feels something for her. 

 

"Thought what? That we're girlfriends? It doesn't work that way, Seungwan."

 

"Well.." Seungwan's voice shakes, but she looks at Joohyun's eyes intensely. "What if I ask you to be my girlfriend then?"

 

Joohyun was stunned. She was not ready for this. "You don't know what you're talking about, Seungwan. You're only-"

 

"I'm already sixteen and I'm not a kid anymore, Hyunnie. I know what I'm talking about." Seungwan answered, eyes still on Joohyun's. "I'm in love with you, Hyunnie. I don't know how or when it started, but I know I love you. And I know you know it too."

 

"Seungwan…"

 

"I know that this is not the right time and place for this but I don't think I can hold it any longer. I love you, Hyunnie. And I know, I just know, that you feel the same way."

 

Seungwan is right. Joohyun had already known that she is indeed, already in love with Seungwan. She thought she realized it even before Seungwan could with her own feelings. But when Joohyun realized her feelings for the younger girl, she chose not to act on it. Joohyun was scared. What she and Seungwan have now is something really special, something that she treasures more than anything. And Joohyun is scared that if they cross that line and it didn't work out for them, that she'll lose that special relationship they have, that she'll lose Seungwan. And that's the one thing that Joohyun wouldn't be able to handle. So, she told herself that to not go there and just stay in their no label, no commitment relationship.

 

Gathering all her courage, Joohyun shakes her head. "Be careful on your way home." 

 

Without waiting for Seungwan's response, Joohyun walked away from the latter, afraid that once she saw the hurt on Seungwan, she wouldn't be able to control herself.

 

Joohyun was nervous as she walked inside their house late that night. She doesn't know what to say if Seungwan is waiting for her, after indirectly rejecting the latter. Fortunately for her, Seungwan didn't wait up. A part of Joohyun feels unsettled at that thought, given that Seungwan would always wait for her no matter what. But Joohyun couldn't really blame the younger girl. After all, she just hurt Seungwan's feelings. 

 

As Joohyun passed by the kitchen to get a glass of water, she saw that there were foods left on the table. Beside the food container was a medicine pill and a note. 

 

Just in case you haven't had dinner yet. And take the medicine. It's a pain reliever for your headache. Rest well, Joohyunnie. Goodnight. 

 

Joohyun felt like tearing up. Despite how she treated Seungwan earlier, the latter was still concerned and prepared all these for her. Joohyun clenched her fist. This is what she is afraid of. That once either one of them acts out on their feelings, it would damage the relationship they have. 

 

It was obvious that Seungwan was avoiding her the next day and the days that followed. If before, Seungwan would wake up at 6am, now the younger girl would already be awake at 5am to prepare their breakfast and would go straight to her school just so she wouldn't have to encounter Joohyun when the older girl wakes up. Seungwan also stopped waiting at her school gate, or at their home. Whenever Joohyun comes home at night, Seungwan would already be in her room and the only thing that greets her is the food at the kitchen prepared by Seungwan for her dinner. 

 

Joohyun felt miserable. She has been missing Seungwan dearly and yet, she couldn't come up to the younger girl because Joohyun doesn't know what to tell her. If Seungwan confessed again, Joohyun was afraid she'll just reject it again and it would be more painful for Seungwan. So as much as it pains her too, in the meantime, Joohyun decided to give themselves space instead. 

 

"So, are you and Seungwan fighting?" Mother Superior asked Joohyun one time she visited the orphanage.

 

"Oh, did she say anything, halmeoni?"

 

"No. It's just that last Sunday, she was here alone. And then today, you're here by yourself. Which was never the case before. You always go here together. So, I thought you guys might be fighting. And well," Mother Superior laughs. "-your reaction confirms it."

 

"W-well, we're not really fighting, halmeoni. It's just that.. uhm.. we don't talk to each other?"

 

"Okay, that's a first." Halmeoni commented with curiosity. "And why is that?"

 

Joohyun was not sure how to tell Mother Superior what happened, mostly because she didn't know how the old nun would react if she learns that the two girls she raised whom she may have expected to take care of each other like a family, ended up being in love with each other instead. 

 

"Okay, let me guess." Mother Superior said when Joohyun couldn't seem to answer. "From what I see.. I think one of you said something to the other, and the other didn't know how to go about it." 

 

Joohyun gulps. "Well, yeah. To make it short, that would be about it, halmeoni."

 

"So, who confessed?" Mother Superior suddenly asked, surprising Joohyun. "Ah, but judging from how you two are right now, I'm guessing it's Seungwan, isn't it?"

 

Joohyun's eyes widened.

 

"But wait. If she confessed, then why are you two not talking?" Mother Superior asked even before Joohyun could answer her first question. "I mean, shouldn't the two of you be all happy and clingy towards each other now? Oh, unless.." Mother Superior winced. "You rejected her?"

 

"But, no." Mother Superior contradicted herself again. "It's impossible. Why would you even reject her when you feel the same way about her. Right?"

 

"W-wait. Wait, halmeoni. Are you.." Joohyun halts. "Are you okay with this?"

 

Mother Superior raised her eyebrow. "What do you mean? With you and Seungwan being together in that way?"

 

"Uhm.. yeah?"

 

Mother Superior chuckles. "And why wouldn't I be?"

 

"Because.. we're both girls? And the teachings-"

 

"Hyun.." Mother Superior cuts Joohyun with a gentle smile. "I'll be honest here and admit that at some point, when you were growing up together, I had prayed that you two will end up with a loving man and build your own family. Because I had always hoped for your happiness, everyone of you who I took care of in this orphanage. And well, we've been taught that it's the right thing- to get married to the opposite . That's why I had wished that for you two as well." Mother Superior chuckles. "But you know what? As I watched you two grow up, I thought to myself, 'ah, can anyone even compare or take care of each of you better than how you did with each other? Can anyone make you happier than you already are when the two of you are together?'. And I came up with the realization that no one can ever compare to how you two are with each other. I think I've already known that you two will eventually fall in love with each other. I mean, seeing how you two were, it's not even surprising anymore."

 

"And.. you've come to accept that?" Joohyun gulps in worry.

 

"Like I've said, Hyun, I had only hoped for your happiness. And if you found that happiness in each other, then how can I not accept that? How can I not be happy for both of you?" Mother Superior pats Joohyun's head. "I know it's different from what is being taught to us, especially in church. But I always believed that at the end of the day, God allows us to love anyone we want to love."

 

That brought comfort and a smile on Joohyun's face. "Thank you, halmeoni."

 

"But you still haven't answered my question. Did you reject Seungwan?" Mother Superior asked, voice laced with worry and curiosity.

 

Joohyun nodded meekly, lowering her head.

 

"Oh, dear. Why?" Mother Superior sensed Joohyun's guilt. She hugs the young girl. "And I know it's not because you think it's against the teachings of the church. Because I know you, Hyun. When you want something, you will always fight for it no matter what everyone says."

 

Joohyun lets go of the hug and sighs. "I guess… I'm just scared, halmeoni."

 

"Of what?"

 

"Of what will happen if we didn't work out? Halmeoni.. I just.. I just love Seungwan so much that I can't think of losing her."

 

"What makes you think you will lose her?"

 

"Putting a label on it will change things, halmeoni. And I've seen enough to know that relationships, no matter how long they've been, don't always end up in happy endings. I've seen a lot of couples who were so in love, but then they broke up and now, they're just.. strangers. I don't.. I don't want me and Seungwan to end up like that. I can't lose her in my life, halmeoni."

 

"Well, I understand your worry, Hyun. But each couple is different. You and Seungwan are different. Besides, how can you know for sure how this will end up when you haven't even tried?"

 

"B-but.. I can't risk it, halmeoni."

 

"You know, Joohyun, all great things are worth taking the risk for."

 

That made Joohyun think to herself. 

 

"Seungwan has probably the same worry as you. And from how she never wanted to let go of you since she was six, maybe her fear of losing you was even greater. But she takes the risk. Because I know that for her, you are worth every risk."

 

Joohyun couldn't help but cry. It was then she realized that she became so cowardly and ended up hurting Seungwan who, as Mother Superior said, was probably even more scared. Yet, the younger girl had the courage to risk it all for Joohyun, for them to have something better.

 

"And I failed her, halmeoni." Joohyun chokes. "I hurt her."

 

"Well, it's not too late for that, isn't it?" Mother Superior asked, smiling kindly. 

 

"It's.. not?" Joohyun asked, wiping her tears.

 

"Of course."

 

"But she's avoiding me now, halmeoni."

 

"She's probably just giving you some time. And do you really think that Seungwan would just give up on you like that?" Mother Superior asked incredulously. "That girl even proposed a marriage to you when she was only nine!"

 

That made Joohyun laugh. "I don't think she knew what that meant then, halmeoni."

 

"Well, she probably didn't understand how marriage works, but way back then, she already knew that she wanted to spend her lifetime with you." 

 

Joohyun blushed.

 

"Oh, and you answered her proposal back then, right?" Mother Superior teased. "You clearly know by then what marriage is. And you said yes to her."

 

Joohyun blushed harder. "W-well.. t-that's.."

 

"That's because you also wanted to spend your lifetime with her. Right?"

 

Joohyun nods, smiling. "Yes, halmeoni. I did. And I still do."

 

Mother Superior pats her head. "Go and talk to her, okay?"

 

"I will." Joohyun hugs the old nun. "Thank you, halmeoni."

 

When Joohyun went home with flowers in her hand, Seungwan was not at home. Joohyun frowns as it's already late in the afternoon. Instead there was a note and an envelope posted on Joohyun's bedroom door.

 

Joohyunnie. Today is the last day of our school festival, and our school band is performing, so I might be home after dinner instead. I reserved a ticket for you. Well, if you just want to watch, that is. If not, it's okay too.

 

Joohyun ripped the envelope open and saw the ticket. She hurriedly went to Seungwan's high school, still with the flowers in her hand.

 

She came right in time to watch Seungwan and her band perform. And oh, Joohyun asked herself how can she not fall in love with this girl who sings her heart out, making the audience stare at her in awe. As she watches Seungwan, Joohyun shakes her head in disbelief. She couldn't believe that she almost let Seungwan go just because of her cowardice. But she won't be a coward anymore. She would confess to Seungwan after this performance. 

 

So when Seungwan made the final bow, and the field was filled with fangirling screams, Joohyun quickly made her way backstage. She was nervous, but more than excited to see Seungwan's face. What she didn't expect to see though is Seungwan being crowded by three girls, one of them is giving Seungwan a bouquet of flowers. 

 

"Seungwan-ssi. I like you. Please go out with me."

 

'The nerve of this girl.' Joohyun thought. 'Seungwan is mine.' Joohyun decided to jump in, but before she could make a step, she heard Seungwan answer.

 

"Oh, I really appreciate it, Soojin sunbaenim. But I already have a girlfriend."

 

Joohyun stops in her tracks. Was Seungwan talking about her? Joohyun could feel her cheeks getting red at that thought. But then, she remembered that it's been nearly two weeks since Seungwan avoided her. Could it be possible that Seungwan found a girlfriend in those two weeks? Joohyun grits her teeth.

 

"Is it Joohyun sunbae?"

 

Joohyun's ears perk up hearing her name. She had just graduated last year in this same high school so students know her. Joohyun was somehow nervous to hear Seungwan's answer.

 

"Yes. It's Joohyun eonnie."

 

Joohyun could feel her heart thumping inside her chest as heat creeps up to her cheeks. 

 

"But didn't she reject you?" Soojin asked, making Joohyun frown. "I heard it from one of my classmates. She heard you confessing to Joohyun sunbae and she rejected you."

 

Seungwan lowered her head and seeing that, Joohyun's heart broke.

 

"Seungwan," Soojin continued. "If she doesn't like you then it's okay. You don't deserve someone who-"

 

"Soojin sunbaenim," Seungwan lifts her head up to look at Soojin with firm eyes. "Thank you for being kind to me. But please, don't talk about Joohyun eonnie like that, especially in front of me. Like I've said, she is my girlfriend and I won't tolerate anyone talking bad about her."

 

Joohyun's heart just melted at what she heard. 

 

Soojin refused to back down though. "You're just saying that so I would back off. But I know you two are not together, Seungwan. I mean if you two are, then where is she? Shouldn't she be here cheering you on?"

 

"Well.."

 

Joohyun saw Seungwan's dejected look that she couldn't just continue watching further. 

 

"See? She's not even-"

 

"Wannie!"

 

Seungwan and all the girls turned to her with wide eyes.

 

"H-hyunnie.."

 

"I'm sorry. I've been meaning to go to you as soon as your performance ends but my old teachers saw me and I got held up for a while." Joohyun lied, purposely ignoring the three girls. "But I have watched your performance of course. I'm so, so proud of you, Wannie-ah." That she said with utmost sincerity.

 

"Hyunnie." 

 

Joohyun heard Seungwan's voice shakes. With how Seungwan was looking at her lovingly, as if she was so relieved and happy that Joohyun was there, it only made the younger girl vulnerable in Joohyun's eyes. She wants to erase Seungwan's uncertainties because the younger girl only deserved everything good in this world. Looking at Seungwan's eyes, Joohyun could only feel just how much she loves the younger girl.

 

"I'm sorry, but can I just.." Catching everyone off guard, Joohyun closed their distance, cupped Seungwan's cheek, and leaned in for a kiss on Seungwan's lips. 

 

Three girls gasp in unison. Seungwan had her eyes wide and before she could process what was happening, Joohyun already pulled out of the kiss.

 

"I'm sorry, Wannie." Joohyun scratches her head, feeling shy all of a sudden. She didn't regret what she did, still, she admits she did it without much thinking, contrary to her personality. "Well.. you just looked too lovable right now that I couldn't help it."

 

Seungwan opens but before she could say something, Soojin beat her to it.

 

"Oh my goodness! So it's real? You're really dating Joohyun sunbae?"

 

Joohyun turns to her. "Ah right. I'm sorry you had to witness that." 

 

"Y-you're.. you're dating our Seungwan, sunbae?" Soojin stuttered.

 

"OUR Seungwan?" Joohyun frowns. "Ah, I don't know about that, because she is MY Seungwan."

 

The three girls gasp dramatically once more.

 

"Hyunnie?"

 

Joohyun turns back to Seungwan and catches the latter's questioning gaze. She gave Seungwan a soft smile and grabbed her hand. "Let's go?"

 

Despite the confusion, Seungwan managed to nod.

 

"Me and my girlfriend will go now, okay? See you girls." Joohyun said to the three still shocked girls, grinning to herself. 

 

On their walk home, Seungwan hasn't said any words. But instead, she keeps touching her lips every now and then. And that's when Joohyun remembered that Seungwan hasn't kissed anyone yet. Well, she hasn't kissed anyone either but it was Joohyun who initiated the kiss. It was her who kissed Seungwan. Therefore, she just stole Seungwan's first kiss, just like that. 

 

Joohyun gasps, stopping herself from walking. "Oh my gosh, Seungwan-ah! I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Joohyun panics, grabbing Seungwan by the shoulders. She looks at Seungwan's lips and gulps. "I took your first kiss and I didn't even ask for your permission. Oh my gosh how unromantic! I'm sorry, Wan-"

 

"S-so.. it.. it wasn't a dream then?" Seungwan held her lips once again. "You- you really kissed m-me?"

 

Seungwan was blushing so much that Joohyun finds it really cute that she just wants to kiss the girl ag- No. Joohyun shakes her head. She needs to talk to Seungwan first.

 

Looking nervously at the blushing girl, Joohyun asked. "Are you.. mad, Wannie?"

 

Seungwan shakes her head. She got even redder. "I liked it, Hyunnie."

 

Joohyun could only grin sheepishly. Seungwan liked her kiss. 

 

"Oh, but wait." Seungwan suddenly asked with a raised brow. "What- what does that mean, Hyunnie? Why did you.. I mean," Seungwan avoided Joohyun's gaze, her cheeks red. "I really liked the kiss. But I just want to know what it was for?"

 

Joohyun grabs Seungwan's chin, making the latter look at her. "That's my answer to your confession, Seungwan-ah."

 

Seungwan's eyes widened.

 

"I love you too, Son Seungwan. So, so much. So yes, I would be your girlfriend."

--
 

As Joohyun recalled that memory, it came to her that so much time has passed and she and Seungwan have been through a lot. They fought, they broke up, she even told herself not to love Seungwan again. Still, after all these years, one thing remains. And that is her love for Seungwan.

 

"For the last time, guys, I already have a girlfriend, okay?"

 

"Where is she then, ssaem?"

 

Ah. So they are not done with this conversation yet. Joohyun stifled a chuckle. I guess it's time to answer them then. 

 

"She was just-"

 

Seungwan was not able to finish her answer when the front door of the classroom was opened harshly. She and all her students turned in unison towards the door.

 

Joohyun watched as Seungwan's eyes widened in shock.

 

"H-hyunnie?"

 

Joohyun strides towards Seungwan and without a warning, she grabs the younger girl by her cheeks and pulls Seungwan in for a kiss. Seungwan was obviously surprised but as she felt Joohyun's lips on her, the latter didn't waste any time and kissed back.

 

"Ooooooh! Nice one, ssaem!" 

 

They both pulled out of the kiss when some of the class cheered noisily. Both of them were red faced.

 

Seungwan cleared , suddenly feeling embarrassed. "Guys, quiet down."

 

Joohyun chuckles seeing Seungwan's red cheeks. To help the latter, Joohyun faces the class.

 

"So, I guess that kiss answers everyone's question. Right?"

 

Eunho has her jaw dropped. "You're THE girlfriend?"

 

Joohyun smirks. "The one and only."

 

"Hyunnie.."

 

Joohyun heard Seungwan's confused voice. And just like what she did a long time ago, she sends Seungwan a soft smile and grabs the latter's hand.

 

"I believe that her class with you had already ended like," She looks at her watch. "Ten minutes ago."

 

Still in disbelief, the class chorused a nod.

 

"Well, then I'll now get MY girlfriend." Joohyun gave them a teasing wink. "Bye, class."

 

**

 

Joohyun chuckles as Seungwan was staring at their intertwined hands and keeps squeezing Joohyun's hand. They were in the park, sitting on one secluded bench.

 

"What are you doing?"

 

"Oh, uhm, I'm just making sure you're real." Seungwan grins shyly. "I just can't believe you're here now, Hyunnie."

 

"Why? Did the kiss earlier feel like a dream too?" She teases.

 

"W-well, no. It felt too real, actually. In- in fact," Seungwan clears and blushes. "C-can I.. May I kiss you again, Hyunnie?"

 

Joohyun giggles. She lifts Seungwan's jaw and leans in for a kiss.

 

"Woah. It's really real."

 

Joohyun laughs, slapping Seungwan's shoulder. The younger girl smiled seeing the laughing Joohyun.

 

"So, how were you, eonnie? This is a sweet surprise, you know. I didn't expect you'll be back after only two years."

 

"Well, the merger went well so I have no reason to stay there any longer."

 

"So, you're back here for good?"

 

Joohyun knows it was not only a question relating to the company. Seungwan was asking her if she was already healed and ready to start again. 

 

Joohyun's answer was quick but honest. "Yes."

 

"Then.. us.. are we.." Seungwan gulps in nervousness. "Are we back together again too?"

 

Joohyun laughs once again. "I kissed you in front of your class, and you asked to kiss me just now. Yet, you're still asking that?"

 

"I just want to be sure, Hyunnie." Seungwan pouts. "This came unexpected and it still feels like a dream, so I-"

 

Joohyun leans in for another kiss, cutting Seungwan off her sentence.

 

"God, I missed kissing you, Wannie." Joohyun chuckles seeing a red faced Seungwan. "Does that answer your question now?"

 

Instead of answering, Seungwan pulls Joohyun by her nape and captures the older girl's lips. They shared a minute of passionate kiss before they pulled out to breath. 

 

"I missed kissing you too, Hyunnie. And you're mine now again."

 

Joohyun caresses Seungwan's cheek. "As you are mine."

 

The two decided to have dinner together but Seungwan insisted that she cook for them instead since it is a very special day. 

 

As Seungwan unlocks the house, she looks at Joohyun who was still standing a few meters behind her.

 

"Hyunnie? Why are you just standing there?"

 

"Well, you still haven't invited me in, so.."

 

Seungwan laughs as she takes Joohyun's hand. "Halmeoni gave this house, her house, to us. So I don't have to invite you in because this has always been your home too, Hyunnie. I never, for once, think otherwise."

 

Joohyun shakes her head, poking Seungwan's nose. "I can't believe I'm saying this but I missed your greasiness too."

 

Seungwan beams and pecks Joohyun's cheek. 

 

However, when they entered their shared house, they were surprised to see a light in the living room.

 

"Yah, is someone else living here?" Joohyun whispered.

 

"What? No, Hyunnie."

 

"Then.." Joohyun clasps Seungwan's hand tight. "Maybe a ghost?"

 

"Hyunnie.. There's no ghost here."

 

"Then why-"

 

"Hi, eonnies!"

 

As Joohyun and Seungwan reach the living room, they see Seulgi, Sooyoung, and Yerim in the living room, watching TV, with Yeri grinning at them.

 

"W-wait! How did you know I'm here?" Joohyun asked, surprised.

 

"And how did you manage to break in?" Seungwan asked, equally shocked. 

 

"Seulgi eonnie knows the lock code." Sooyoung answered proudly.

 

"Wait. How?" 

 

"I saw it when me and Joohyun eonnie came here when you had an allergy attack two years ago." Seulgi grins. "It's a good thing you still haven't changed the lock code, Seungwan-ah."

 

"Okay. But what are you three doing here?"

 

"We came to see you two, eonnie. Of course." Yerim answered. She then eyes the plastic bag that Seungwan is carrying. "Oh, and are you gonna cook food, Seungwan eonnie?"

 

"W-well, yeah."

 

"Alright!" Seulgi and Yerim high fived each other. "We came just in time."

 

"Wait a minute. What is going on here?" Joohyun asked, a hand on her waist. "How did you know we'll be here? You didn't even know that I'll be coming back today."

 

"Yes, you didn't tell us. And of course, the first person you went to right after coming back is Seungwan eonnie." Yerim gave a teasing grin.

 

"So, what?" Joohyun answered, a blush on her cheek. "And really, how did you three end up here?"

 

"I came to the music academy to see Seungwan eonnie." Sooyoung explained. "And guess what your students told me, eonnie?"

 

Seungwan instantly blushed.

 

"That your girlfriend came and you two were on a liplocking reunion." Yerim dramatically shakes her head. "Seriously, eonnies. Next time please do it in private. You terrorize those poor children's eyes."

 

"They're university students already, Yerim." Joohyun rolled her eyes. She then remembered something. She turned to Sooyoung with a glare. "But why are you looking for my girlfriend anyway, Sooyoung-ssi? Do you have that much free time?" She looks at Seulgi. "Seulgi-yah, I think we should give Ms. Park many more projects then."

 

Sooyoung laughs. "Oh-ho. So this is how the great CEO is as a girlfriend, huh? It's cute, eonnie." She pats Joohyun's head teasingly, which earned her a glare from the older girl.

 

"But anyway Ms. CEO," Sooyoung continued. "I actually came there for my next project. I will be a singer on my next drama and the company hired Seungwan eonnie to be my vocal coach."

 

"Really?" Joohyun turned to Seungwan, to which the latter nodded with a smile. Joohyun felt proud. It just shows that Seungwan is getting confident with her singing again.

 

"So, when I heard that a girlfriend came for Seungwan eonnie, you're the only person that came to mind." Sooyoung told Joohyun. "But I didn't know you're already back so I contacted Seulgi eonnie and Yerim."

 

"Then we figured out that you two might be together already and so, we went here to congratulate you too." Yerim finished for Sooyoung. "And to have dinner as well."

 

Seungwan chuckles while Joohyun could only shake her head. "You three, really."

 

The couple began preparing dinner while their three friends continued their movie as if it was their own house. 

 

"Hyunnie, I'm good here. You can just join them and rest."

 

"I'll help you, Wannie."

 

"But I said I'll cook for you."

 

"Yes. But that's before those three enter the scene." Joohyun answered with a chuckle. "It will be too much to cook for five people so I'll help you."

 

"But aren't you tired, Hyunnie? You just came from a long flight."

 

"I'm good, Wannie. Now that I'm here with you, I'm good."

 

Seungwan pecks Joohyun's cheek once again. 

 

"Can you guys just save that for later and finish the dinner first?" Yerim asked, surprising the two.

 

"Yah, what are you doing here?" Joohyun asked, startled.

 

"You two are taking too long. I need to make sure you're not doing anything funny here in the kitchen."

 

"Ugh. Seriously." Joohyun rolls her eyes. "Fine, fine. Go back there now."

 

"If you're not done yet in another ten minutes, Sooyoung eonnie will be the next to check on you two." Yerim said as she turned away laughing. 

 

"I think we have crazy friends." Joohyun murmured.

 

"And they will get crazier if we're not done in the next ten minutes." Seungwan laughs. "Let's get this finished with, Hyunnie."

 

Joohyun chuckles in return. "Let's do that."

 

The five of them had dinner together and Sooyoung brought a wine which they enjoyed after the dinner.

 

"Cheers!"

 

The five girls clank their glass of wine together. 

 

"For Seungwan eonnie and Joohyun eonnie." Sooyoung makes a toast. "This is a first for us, to see you two together like this. And I have to admit, you two really look good together." 

 

"We've seen how miserable you were without each other so I'm glad that finally, you two are back in each other's arms." Seulgi raised her glass too. "Don't let go of each other now, okay?"

 

"Yes. But please, keep your hands to yourself when we're here." Yeri added, raising her glass in the air. 

 

"Yah, we're not like that." Joohyun whispered, but still loud enough for the rest to hear, making Sooyoung and Yeri laugh.

 

"Ooh. How about we continue this with a sleep over here." Seulgi suggested excitedly. "What do you guys-"

 

"Oh my goodness, Seulgi eonnie, no." Sooyoung interjected.

 

"No, no, no. Definitely." Yerim shakes her head.

 

"What? Why?"

 

"We need to give them their private time." Sooyoung winks at the two blushing girls.

 

"Yes. And please, I don't want to hear any moa-"

 

"Yah!" Joohyun shouts.

 

Yerim laughs and raises her arms in surrender.

 

**

 

"I still have some of your pajamas here, Hyunnie. Want to get changed in them? Or you want me to get your luggage in your car?" 

 

"No need, Wannie. The PJs are fine."

 

Seungwan nods. "They're in your bedroom. I already laid it on your bed."

 

"Thanks, Wannie." Joohyun gave Seungwan a chaste kiss on the lips.

 

They went to Joohyun's bedroom and once she was done changing into her pajamas, she saw Seungwan sitting on her bed. 

 

"Ah, finally. Some peace and quiet." Joohyun exclaimed, joining Seungwan on the bed.

 

Seungwan laughs. "They are really chaotic, Hyunnie."

 

"Goodness, yes." Joohyun chuckled. "You really should have changed the lock code next time. Why didn't you even change it ever since?"

 

"W-well, I was kind of hoping you'd come back, Hyunnie." Seungwan grins, scratching her head. "And when that happens, I want you to know that you can always come here anytime you want and I'll just be here, waiting for you "

 

Joohyun palms Seungwan's cheek. "Did I make you wait long?"

 

Seungwan shakes her head, leaning to Joohyun's touch. "You are worth every wait, Hyunnie."

 

Emotions surge within Joohyun at Seungwan's sincerity. Waiting no more, Joohyun kisses Seungwan fully on the lips and Seungwan returns the kiss with the same fervor. Soon, they were lying on the bed with their clothes scattered around the floor. They continue to kiss each other as their hands touch each other's body. They made love a number of times that night, pouring every sorry, every thank you, and every I love you.

 

Surprisingly, it was Joohyun who woke up first the next morning. As she opened her eyes, Seungwan's peaceful sleeping face was what greeted her. There was an obvious hickey on Seungwan's neck and Joohyun blushed as she thought of last night. She was sure that Seungwan had also left marks on her body, but Joohyun wouldn't complain. After all, they really had a passionate lovemaking last night. 

 

Seungwan took all of her and Joohyun had never felt good before. Seungwan kept telling her how much she loves her with every kiss and every touch. They had already slept together a couple of times when they were still together before, but last night was just different. She even remembered how Seungwan teared up while they were making love last night.

 

"Wannie?" Joohyun was kissing Seungwan after the latter came from her high, when she felt wetness on the younger girl's cheeks. She immediately stopped to focus on Seungwan's face. "Are you crying? What's wrong?" Joohyun's eyes widened. "Wait. Did I hurt you? Oh my gosh, Wannie. I'm so-"

 

Seungwan shakes her head, sniffing a little. "I'm just so happy, Hyunnie. I just couldn't believe I have you again. Thank you for giving me another chance, Hyunnie."

 

"Thank you for not giving up." Joohyun answered as she kissed all of Seungwan's tears away. "Don't cry now, Wannie. I'm here now."

 

With a chuckle, Seungwan wipes Joohyun's tears too. The older girl didn't even realize she was crying as well. "Silly. You're crying too, Hyunnie."

 

Joohyun had a contented smile as she watched Seungwan sleep. Everything seemed to fall on its right places and Joohyun couldn't be happier. She continued to stare at Seungwan and Joohyun thought of how she wants nothing but to always wake up like this, with Seungwan beside her.

 

At her thoughts, Joohyun palms Seungwan's cheek. Being a light sleeper, Seungwan stirs awake when she feels Joohyun's touch. 

 

Seungwan opened her eyes sleepily and she smiled at Joohyun, her hand cupping Joohyun's hand on her cheek. Then she closed her eyes again.

 

"Wannie?"

 

Seungwan opens her eyes once again and looks at Joohyun. "Yes, Hyunnie?"

 

Joohyun caressed the younger girl's cheek as she stared directly into Seungwan's eyes. "Marry me."

 

Seungwan's eyes widened and she sat abruptly, hugging the blanket to her body. "W-what?"

 

Joohyun followed suit and lifted herself up to a sitting position, meeting Seungwan's eye level. "Marry me."

 

"Yes, Hyun!" Seungwan hugs Joohyun tight. "Yes, of course. I love you so much, Hyunnie!"

 

Joohyun kissed Seungwan's temple. "And I love you, Seungwan-ah."

 

**

 

"Hi, halmeoni."

 

Joohyun giggles as Seungwan greets Mother Superior's tomb with excitement, swaying their intertwined fingers. 

 

"Hi, halmeoni." Joohyun did her greeting too. "I'm back, and I missed you, halmeoni."

 

"Halmeoni!" Seungwan raised their joined hands and grinned. "We're together now again, halmeoni. And I promise, I won't let Hyunnie go again."

 

Joohyun chuckles, kissing Seungwan's cheek. 

 

"Especially now that we're getting married, halmeoni!" Seungwan continues on with excitement. "We're engaged! Right, Hyunnie?"

 

Joohyun looks at their intertwined fingers and smiles sheepishly. "We don't have any engagement rings yet, but it's true, halmeoni."

 

Joohyun felt Seungwan suddenly stiffened. She was about to ask what's wrong when Seungwan wordlessly handed her a small box. Joohyun gets her hand from Seungwan and takes the box. "What's this?"

 

"Well.. I've been.. I've been carrying that with me for almost a year now."

 

Joohyun opens the box and gasps as she sees a ring inside. "Seungwan, what.."

 

"When we parted two years ago, I didn't know when you would come back. But I'm sure that you will. I believe that you will. And I bought that ring a year ago."

 

"And you have been carrying this since?"

 

Seungwan nods shyly. "I want to be ready in case you suddenly come back. And well, you did. I was planning to give you some time before I give you that. But well.. you beat me to it, Hyunnie."

 

"And you're planning to propose to me?"

 

"Of course." Seungwan takes the ring from Joohyun and grins shyly. "I promised you when we were still kids that I will ask for you in marriage again once we grow older, right?" 

 

Joohyun laughs. "You did."

 

"So, then, Hyunnie." Seungwan cleared . "With halmeoni as our witness.. Bae Joohyun, Joohyun eonnie, Joohyunnie, Hyunnie.." Seungwan kneeled on one knee and offered Joohyun the ring. "Will you please marry me?"

 

Joohyun's heart swooned. She grabs Seungwan's hand and helps the latter to stand back up. Then, she cups Seungwan's cheek. 

 

"I said yes to marrying you when you were still nine. And now, twenty years later, I will say yes again." Joohyun starts to tear up. "Yes. Son Seungwan, Seungwan-ah, Seungwannie, Wannie.. I will marry you."

 

Seungwan, who was crying now too, shakily puts the ring on Joohyun's finger, making the older girl laugh. She wipes Seungwan's tears and embraces the latter tightly.

 

A lot has happened between them. Joohyun came with that realization. From meeting a scared little girl who lost her parents in an accident, to being friends with her thanks to the latter's persistence and boldness, to leaving the orphanage and start living together on their own, to being lovers, to being broken souls for five years, to trying to fix their broken selves for two years, to giving themselves another chance at love, and now, they are finally about to start another journey with their lives together.

 

So many things have happened and it was not always rainbows and sunshines. There were rains and storms too that were so strong it almost made Joohyun give up. In fact, if someone were to tell her two, or seven years ago that she would be here right now, standing in front of Mother Superior's tomb with a ring on her finger and with Seungwan on her arms, Joohyun would not believe it. After all, she told herself some time ago that she would not love Seungwan again, not after all the hurt she's been through.

 

But as she holds Seungwan tight in her arms right now, Joohyun realizes once more that Mother Superior is right. 

 

All great things are worth taking the risk for.

 

For sure there would be bumps along their road, and Joohyun knows there is no guarantee that she won't be hurt again. But she is willing to take that risk.

 

Because for her, Seungwan would always be worth taking the risk for.

 

 

FIN