This Is Not Goodbye

He placed a coffee cup in front of her.

One he bought from the vending machine.

He was apprehensive of her visit.

She has never visited him at the station before.

"Min-sung ssi… I've thought about your offer..."

"And?"

"I'm sorry but I have to say no...."

"It was not an offer, actually. It was more of a request."

He looked at her beseechingly, giving one last try.

"Min-sung ssi..."

If the earth could open up, she would gladly jump in.

She felt that guilty.

"It's back at that then, huh?" He smiled sadly. "I thought we have upgraded to Min-sung Oppa."

So-Mi could only look down at her hands.

"I can't be with you."

"Be with me?"

"I have to be truthful to myself. I am not ready for a relationship."

Lee fiddled with his paper cup for the longest time, before speaking.

"With me... You are not ready for a relationship with me," he spoke slowly. "Because you are in a relationship with him."

And she kept silent, confirming his accusation. Knowing that he meant Tae-sik.

And in a lot of ways he was right.

Despite being platonic, both Tae-sik and So-Mi were partners in many areas.

And they have been in a relationship...for the longest time.

But Lee was slowly admiting defeat.

"Here," he took a small pin from the lapel of his jacket.

A small silver star with a white zirconium stone in the middle.

He gave the pin to her, pinning in on her blouse, just above her heart.

"Here," he said again, sadly. "No matter how you don't feel the way I want you to feel about me, my feelings for you will not diminish over night."

He looked at her seriously.

"I have men all over town. Please wear this pin wherever you go. My men wil recognize you with this. And they will protect, you should the need arise."

"Min-sung ssi..."

"Please, this is not goodbye," he looked deep into her eyes. "Please don't say it is. I am still hopeful, but if you truly are not ready, then let's just remain friends for the time being. Please, that much I'm asking from you."