What Are You Waiting For - My Favorite Highway

A friend requested for a Minyeon fic so here it is. i hope you like it. i hope all of you will like it. it's a really lengthy hehe.  it took me a while before i made this so i made up with the length hehehe :)

i do not own the photo. i got it from google :D

A stylish young woman walked out of the airport. She was wearing a stoic expression. Very chic and cold yet charismatic.

“Park Jiyeon.” The charismatic girl named Park Jiyeon looked at the person who called her. “Don’t you remember me?” The same girl asked.

“Ham Eunjung.” Jiyeon replied uninterestedly. While the girl named Ham Eunjung smiled widely glad that her old friend still remembers her.

There was a time that I would squeal upon seeing that smile. Just after her plane landed, the past has already started to haunt her. I told you this was a bad idea. You shouldn’t have come back, pabo. Jiyeon continued to scold herself.

Eunjung led her to the car.

Why did you pick me up?

“You must be wondering why I’m the one who picked you up.” Eunjung asked trying to start a conversation with her old friend.

You read my mind.

“When I heard that you’re going back, I volunteered to pick you up. I wanted to see how you have been. It’s been a long time since I last saw you. And I wanted to see how my dinosaur of a bestfriend has been all these years.” Eunjung said in attempt to break the awkwardness between them. Jiyeon has changed over the past years.

Jiyeon gave a small smile.

Not wanting the conversation to end, Eunjung continued, “Your Appa is stuck in a very important meeting. Your Umma cannot make it today. And… and Hyomin…”

Hyomin…

“She’s also stuck in a meeting like your father.”

Well…that’s a surprise. Jiyeon thought sarcastically. So you are sent here to do the dirty job eh.

“I guess you’re tired because of the flight. Just rest for a while and save your energy for later. They prepared a homecoming party for you.” Eunjung suggested after noticing that Jiyeon is not in a mood to talk.

Jiyeon nodded and faced the window watching the scenes they passed by. Yes, she is tired and exhausted. How long has she been in Korea? Less than 30 minutes and already her energy had been drained. Some homecoming huh? Yey…

She left because of her so called family who had turned their backs against her because of… because of her… Hyomin.

How could she ever forgive her? She took everything from me. My Appa, my Umma, Eunjung, the company. Now I am back to take everything back from her. I am here to make things right. To take back what is rightfully mine.

There was a time when things weren’t like this. There was a time when we all live happily. That was a long time ago.

Flashback

Jiyeon woke up feeling the empty space beside her. She sat and rubbed her eyes.

“Boo”

“Hyomin unnie…” Jiyeon whined and pouted.

Hyomin giggled. She sat on her bed facing Jiyeon. “Good morning Jiyeon nyan.” She said and kissed Jiyeon on the cheek.

The small act made Jiyeon smile widely. “Goodmorning Hyomin unnie!” She said before attacking the older girl with a tight hug making them fall on the bed.

“Oww”

“Mianhe, unnie, but that’s what you get for teasing me.” Jiyeon said. She kissed Hyomin on the cheek, “And this is my goodmorning kiss to unnie.”

“Girls! Breakfast is ready!” Mrs. Park called them. 3 year old Jiyeon and 7 year old Hyomin walked together hand in hand to have their breakfast, greeting Mr. and Mrs. Park before seating in their own seats.

Was it all just a dream? Now I have woken up to a harsh reality.

Hyomin unnie and I were always together. We share the same room. Even if we have separate beds, I will always sleep beside her. You knew I was afraid of the dark, that’s why you let me sleep with you and we would hug each other til we fell asleep.

“Goodnight my little princess.” Mrs. Park said as she tuck little Jiyeon to bed.

“Goodnight umma” Jiyeon replied beaming. She closed her eyes expecting her mom to give her a sweet goodnight kiss. Mrs. Park smiled at her daughter’s cuteness and gave her princess a sweet goodnight kiss.

Hyomin, being four years older than Jiyeon, tuck herself in. Mrs. Park went to Hyomin’s side and said, “Goodnight Hyomin”

“Goodnight.” Hyomin replied. Mrs. Park smiled and gave Hyomin a goodnight kiss. She switched off the lights and closed the door.

Jiyeon was never comfortable in the darkness. She snuck out of her bed not forgetting to bring her favorite stuff bunny with her. She pulled Hyomin’s blanket and snuck herself in.

“Do you want me to open the lights?”

Jiyeon shook her head. “I’m not afraid unnie.”

“Right…” Hyomin knew any better that Jiyeon is afraid of the dark.

“I just wanted to sleep and hug unnie.” Jiyeon muffled under the blanket.

Hyomin smiled and pulled Jiyeon into a hug. “I love that too.”

What happened, unnie? What happened to us? We used to be so close but now there is a huge distance between us. Distance you put in between us. When did it all start? Was it when you started going to school? I remember the first day you were sent to school after being home-schooled, it was hard for me. I was so used to having you around.

Jiyeon woke up without Hyomin beside her. Hyomin will always wait for her to wake up and they will have breakfast together. Today is different.

“Oh yeah, today is unnie’s first day in school.” Jiyeon walked out of the room, wearing a pout.

“Goodmorning Jiyeonnie.” Mrs. Park greeted. “Oh why is our princess wearing such a long face?” She asked after seeing her daughter sat lifelessly on the table. “Ah, do you perhaps miss Hyomin?” Mrs. Park finally earned a response from her daughter when she nodded a few times. “Today is Hyomin’s first day in school. We should support her.”

“I hate school” Jiyeon muttered because school took away Hyomin from her.

“Don’t say that. School is a really nice place. Hyomin will be back in no time. You can play with me while waiting for Hyomin.” Mrs. Park suggested.

Jiyeon nodded excited that she gets to play. The whole day, she played with Mrs. Park though she misses Hyomin. Playing with Hyomin is more fun.

“Umma, what time will unnie get home?” Jiyeon asked while she was coloring.

“Ji, you just asked me that just 10 seconds ago. Hyomin will be here in one hour.” Mrs. Park replied.

“Arasso”

The hour passed with Jiyeon still asking her mother about Hyomin’s arrival every few seconds.

“I’m back!” Hyomin announced making Jiyeon jumped to her feet and rushed to the door.

“Finally” Mrs. Park exhaled. She was getting tired with Jiyeon always asking about Hyomin the whole time. Mrs. Park smiled watching Jiyeon cling to Hyomin making them fall on the floor yet still laughing heartily. She noticed a small scratch in Hyomin’s hands and she was going to ask about it when Mr. Park entered the house a few seconds after Hyomin. “Hyomin, meet me in my office after you change.” He said before he started walking towards Mrs. Park to kiss her.

The two kids stopped laughing and Hyomin stood up and answered, “Neh”

Jiyeon pouted at Hyomin. “Ji, we’ll play later, ok?” Hyomin said while patting the younger kid.

Jiyeon can be hard headed but she always listens to Hyomin. “Arasso.”

“Good.” Hyomin smiled and gave Jiyeon a lollipop.

Jiyeon took the lollipop happily making Hyomin smile one more time. Hyomin went upstairs to change but not forgetting to kiss Mrs. Park.

Dinner seemed normal with Jiyeon’s hyperactive storytelling.

Mrs. Park tucked Jiyeon to her bed, saying goodnight and giving goodnight kiss. She then went to Hyomin who has her eyes closed. Mrs. Park knew better that the girl is far from being asleep. She sat beside Hyomin and said, “Hyomin ah, always remember that I love you. Umma loves you.” The 7 year old kid opened her eyes asking if it was true. Mrs. Park nodded and said, “Now, will you give me a hug?” Hyomin obeyed and gave Mrs. Park a hug. “Goodnight Hyomin ah.”

“Goodnight”

After Mrs. Park left, Jiyeon went to Hyomin’s side. “Unnie, how was school?”

“It’s ok. I’m sure you’re gonna love it there.”

“I hate school. It took you away from me.”

Hyomin giggled and said, “Soon you will go to the same school with me.”

“Jinja?” Jiyeon asked. When Hyomin said yes, Jiyeon decided that she doesn’t hate school anymore and that she’s excited to go there. Jiyeon fell asleep hugging Hyomin.

After that day, we started playing less and less… I guess it was because we were growing up. I never really got an answer. Maybe because I never really asked…

I stopped sleeping on your bed and you didn’t seem to care. It wasn’t much of a difference when you moved to a different room. I felt sad that you chose to be in a different room from me. Am I really annoying you? I never had the courage to ask you this question.

I was excited when I can finally go to school with you thinking that we can be closer again but you ignore me.

Everytime I ask you, you always tell me off. You say that I should grow up. Grow up? I think we grew apart instead.

Jiyeon was walking towards the school gate to meet Hyomin and to wait for their driver to pick them up. She got dismissed early so she decided to wait at the school gate. Someone blocked her way. More likely two people blocked her way. She knew them. They are Hyomin’s friends, Victoria and Jooyeon.

“You’re annoying.” Victoria said.

Jiyeon choose to ignore them. It’s not like it’s new to her. These two will always bully some students. She cannot understand why Hyomin is friends with them.

Jooyeon slapped Jiyeon’s hand making the books she was holding drop including her phone.

“This looks cute.” Victoria picked her phone and was looking at her phone accessory.

“No. Give it back!” Jiyeon demanded. She can let go if they decided to take her phone even if it was the latest model but not her phone accessory. The accessory was the bracelet she and Hyomin made when they were kids. Hyomin said she lost hers. Jiyeon tried to look for it everywhere even if Hyomin didn’t seem to care. She cried when she cannot find it. Still Jiyeon kept hers and made it as her phone accessory. She hoped that one day, she and Hyomin can go back to how they used to be.

“Are you threatening us?”

“It did sound like a threat.”

 “What are you going to do? Call for help? Look around no one is around. Not even Hyomin.” Victoria said.

Jooyeon snickered, “Not that Hyomin will care anyway.”

They are right… Hyomin unnie doesn’t care… “Please give it back.”

“Fine. Vic give her phone back.”

“Oops…” Victoria faked as she purposely drop Jiyeon’s phone.

Ji was going to pick it up but Jooyeon stepped on the charm breaking it as well.

“Oops” Jooyeon also mocked before the two left laughing hysterically.

Jiyeon walked to the gate waiting area and sat there alone. She was trying hard to hold her tears. It was a good thing their car arrived; she immediately walked inside and began to cry. Hyomin came 20 minutes later.

“What happened?” Hyomin asked after seeing the crying Jiyeon.

The driver narrated what Jiyeon told him happened. After he finished, he drove them home.

Jiyeon was crying hard while holding onto her phone and beloved accessory. Hyomin didn’t even do or say anything to comfort her.

“We’re near. Stop crying.” Hyomin commanded.

Jiyeon could not believe what Hyomin just said. “That’s all? We’re near. Stop crying?! That’s all you got to say?! Your friends did this! You’re ing friends did this! Do you know what this is? Do you even care?” Jiyeon vent out her frustrations to Hyomin, shoving her broken phone charm to Hyomin’s face. She went out of the car and rushed to her room.

It was silent at dinner. Jiyeon who would usually make dinner lively was quiet the whole time. “I heard what happened earlier in school. Kang told me.” Mr. Park said. Kang is their driver. “I ordered the latest phone model and it’s already in your room.”

That’s just it?! Jiyeon wanted to ask her father. She wanted to shout. So after she got bullied by Hyomin’s friends breaking her phone and her precious charm in the process, her father just bought her the latest phone model?! He didn’t even ask if she was ok. So if they bully her again, she will just get the latest phone?! Jiyeon looked around seeing Hyomin not minding anything but eating her dinner. Pfft. She can still eat. Park Jiyeon, like she wound even care for you in the first place. Her mother was looking at her with concerned eyes telling her to calm down.

“What? No thank you?” Mr. Park asked monotonously.

“Thank you Appa.” Jiyeon said then she walked upstairs to her room.

I hate this. Why can’t anybody understand? It’s not just about the phone. I was bullied! Yet no one ever cared. Only Umma cared. But still she didn’t even say anything when I told her that Hyomin didn’t do anything. Am I the only one who is overreacting?! I feel like I don’t even belong to this house.

The next morning Jiyeon went to school acting brave like nothing had happened. No one in school ever asked her about the incident. Usually the news will be spread throughout the entire school. She guessed no one knew about it. Or does anyone even care?

She saw Victoria and Jooyeonseating on the bench along the hallway. She promised herself that she’s not going to let Victoria and Jooyeon get the satisfactioin of seeing her afraid of them. She was shocked to see Hyomin is seating with them like it was the normal thing to do. Pfft. Should I even be shocked with this? Like she even care in the first place. Jiyeon can feel Victoria and Jooyeon’s stare but they didn’t dare do anything after that day. They left her alone for good.

--

She can never understand her father. Hyomin has become like her father. Both of them are the same. They only care about themselves. Her mother is also of no help. Whenever she tells her about Hyomin’s change in attitude, she would not do anything and even tell her to understand Hyomin. Her Appa. Her Umma. Everyone is siding on Hyomin. Does she even belong to this family?

Jiyeon went down to get some milk because she cannot fall asleep. She heard her mother and her father arguing inside her father’s office. Curiosity got the best of her and she decided to listen. She became more curious when she heard Hyomin’s name. She walked closer to the room and pressed her ears on the door.

“You should have let Hyomin choose what she wants to study.” Mrs. Park asked.

“I’m doing this for her own good besides she accepted it.”

“She only agreed because you said so. You didn’t even give her a choice.”

“She’s 16 already. She needs to start learning about the business.” Mr. Park stated in a matter of fact tone.

“She’s still young. Can’t you just let her enjoy? You are making her study business and at the same time work for the company.”

“It’s already been decided. Hyomin is more than ready to follow her father’s footsteps.”

Her father’s footsteps? Why is Appa talking about himself in third person point of view? Jiyeon wondered.

“Her father’s footsteps? Her parents are dead. We are her parents now! We promised to take care of her.” Mrs. Park replied.

“I am taking care of her!” Mr. Park can’t help but raise his voice. In a more calm voice he continued, “She wanted this. He (Hyomin’s father) was my friend! We started the company together. It is just right that Hyomin learns everything about the company… her father’s legacy.”

Jiyeon was shocked to find out that Hyomin is not really her sister. Her mind is still a mess. Jiyeon was startled when she heard Hyomin asked, “What are you doing?” She stared at Hyomin wanting to ask her is what she heard was true. It didn’t even register to her when Hyomin said that eavesdropping to someone elses conversation is bad. Jiyeon only got back to her senses when Hyomin pulled her upstairs.

Jiyeon realized that this was the first time in a very long time that Hyomin has held her hand. Jiyeon was watching Hyomin’s back. How long has it been since we walked this close? It was the first time in a long time that she been this close to Hyomin. She stopped her tracks when she realized that Hyomin is just dragging her and nothing else. Hyomin looked back and tried to pull her again but Jiyeon resisted. Hyomin pulled her harder that Jiyeon had no choice but to follow. Ji felt that Hyomin’s grip loosen but she decided to just follow her unnie. Hyomin stopped when they reached upstairs in front of Jiyeon’s room. Hyomin let go of Jiyeon’s hand and walked towards the window.

Jiyeon stared at Hyomin for a while. She was holding the doorknob but instead of going inside her room, Jiyeon walked beside Hyomin. She gathered all her courage and walked beside Hyomin who was staring at the night sky.

Is this why Umma kept saying that I should just understand you because you were having a tough time? How long have you known? Have you always known? Is this why you put distance between us?

Jiyeon didn’t know what to say. She didn’t know how to start asking. Slowly Jiyeon tried to hold Hyomin’s hand. She was afraid that Hyomin might yank her hand away. Instead Hyomin just let her. They just stood there holding hands somehow comforting each other.

--

“How was it?” Eunjung asked Jiyeon.

Jiyeon released a sigh.

“Don’t worry. I know you aced the entranc e exam. Next year we’ll be in the same university.” Eunjung cheered her girlfriend. Eunjung and Jiyeon got together 2 years ago. It was the classic love story. They were bestfriends and Jiyeon was in love wit Eunjung. Eunjung is the student council president and is very popular. They are both members of the drama club. Though Eunjung is a flirt, she had a huge crush on Hyomin. That was the reason why she befriended Jiyeon, to ask for Jiyeon’s help to get closer to Hyomin. Through the process, the two became close friends with Jiyeon hiding her one sided love. She confessed and was rejected at once. Jiyeon comforted her and later on Eunjung fell in love with Jiyeon. They confessed to each other and has been together ever since. Though a lot of girls and boys hang around Eunjung, Jiyeon trusts her girlfriend.

There was a graduation party for the senior highschools everyone were invited even the alumni. Jiyeon arrived with Eunjung. Hyomin was there too with a ‘friend’. Eunjung prepared for tonight to be extra special for her and Jiyeon. She hoped that tonight will be ‘the night’ she had been waiting for. Unfortunately, everything didn’t go as she planned. Jiyeon was not ready and rejected Eunjung.  While Jiyeon decided to go back to her friends, Eunjung decided to drink to wash away the feeling of rejection.

Almost everyone had gone home besides Jiyeon who was looking for Eunjung and some wasted senior highs. She checked around Gyuri’s house looking for Eunjung. She thought maybe Eunjung is upstairs in ‘that’ room. Ji was going to open the door when the door suddenly opened. To her surprise, it was Hyomin who walked out of the room. Hyomin who was equally shock. It can’t be. Ji walked passed Hyomin. She had to be sure. Hyo stopped her but she yanked her hand away. To her horror, she was right. Eunjung was in the bed only covered in sheets with her clothes scattered on the floor.

“It’s not what it looks like. I…I…I can explain.” Eunjung stuttered.

“I could believe you. You’re an animal!” She screamed at Eunjung. She left Eunjung who was constantly calling her name.

Hyomin was outside the room. “Jiyeon…” She called at the crying girl.

Jiyeon wiped her tears away. “How could you?! I hate you.”

“Jiyeon…” Hyomin tried to stop her but Jiyeon yanked hand hand forcefully.

“I never wanted to see you again.”

Jiyeon cried that whole day. She never wanted to see Hyomin ever again. She hates her. She told her mother what had happened but her mother didn’t do anything. So Jiyeon begged her father if she can move to China or Japan to study. It took a few days before her father finally agreed. Jiyeon booked the next flight and flew to China. She never wanted to go back again to her so called home… ever.

End of Flashback

“We’re here.” Eunjung called cutting Jiyeon from her train of thoughts.

Jiyeon stepped out of the car and looked at her house.

“They are waiting for you inside.” Eunjung said.

“Surprise!” Jiyeon was enveloped to a tight hug by her mother. Mr. Park gave her a brief hug. Almost everyone welcomed Jiyeon back. All except for one. “She just went out to answer a call.” Mrs. Park said as if reading her daughter’s mind.

“I’m not…” Jiyeon defended. It’s not like she cares about Hyomin. She does not want to see that person.

Yet Mrs. Park only smiles at her daughter’s cuteness. “You never change Jiyeon ah.”

“I’ve changed Umma.” Jiyeon replied curtly making Mrs. Park frown.

“Hello my dear sister. I guess those years in China indeed changed you. Hmm… what was it again? Drama and Dance is it?” Hyomin greeted Jiyeon with mockery.

“We’re not sisters.”

“Ouch”

Jiyeon couldn’t take the mockery Hyomin is throwing at her so she left Hyomin and her mother who again didn’t do anything.

“Hyomin, be nice. She just came back and you’re already picking up a fight.” Mrs. Park scolded Hyomin.

“I’m just saying hi” Hyomin defended.

“You could have at least say it in a nicer way.”

Hyomin just gave Mrs. Park a toothy grin making Mrs. Park smile and shake her head.

Jiyeon watched the interaction between her mother and Hyomin. They seem so close. They are more fit to be mother-daughter. Jiyeon watched in jealousy. She went outside to take a deep breath. How long has it been since she came back? Already she has experience a roller coater of emotions.

“Looks like you can use a drink.” Eunjung offered a glass of drink.

“Thanks.” Ji took the drink and turn around. Both of them are watching the crowd inside. Eunjung tried to start a small talk but Jiyeon shut her off by saying, “What do you want Eunjung?”

“Fine I’ll go straight to the point. I want you back. I’ll win you back.” Eunjung confessed with confidence.

Jiyeon let out a dry laugh. “I’ll be back in China before you can even start.”

“No you are staying… at least for your family.”

“From the looks of it, they seem to be doing just fine.” Jiyeon said bitterly while watching her parents and Hyomin talk to the guests.

“Your family and the company need you.”

“How can that be when my father and Hyomin have done nothing but to dedicate all their lives in that company?”

“Your father is retiring and he’s going to appoint Hyomin as CEO.”

“That’s expected.” Jiyeon muttered.

“So you are ok with it?”

“I’m not interested in the company. Hyomin si already acting CEO. So you can rest assure that I’m not gonna wrestle with all of you just to be CEO.”

“It’s not like that Jiyeon. We are not interested in taking over the company. What we need is a reliable and trustworthy leader who will continue your father’s legacy.”

“Isnt that what Hyomin is doing?”

“Ever since Hyomin took over the company, the numbers has been off the charts. The company’s performance has been great however it’s losing money. There are weird transactions that are off the table. There are rumors that it’s close to declaring bankruptcy. There are even rumors that Hyomin is in talks of selling the company.” Eunjung let the secret to Jiyeon.

“Does Appa know this?”

“We are not sure. My Appa has warned him but he seemed to trust Hyomin so much.”

Appa trusts her so much. That I know for sure. Jiyeon stared at Hyomin who was talking to some guests along with her parents. Is this true? I don’t believe it.

“Look I know you find it hard to believe it. I am still investigating this to find more evidences. All I am saying is that you stay and help us find the truth. Save the company which is your father’s legacy.”

“What do you want me to do?” Jiyeon asked. She does not want to believe that Hyomin can do this. She just wants to find out the truth. She may not have the best relationship with her family but she can’t let anything bad happen to them.

“First” Eunjung looked at Jiyeon straight in the eye and said, “Stay.”

--

“You’re allowing this?!” Hyomin asked unbelievably.

Hyomin, Mr. Park and Jiyeon are inside Mr. Park’s office discussing or more like arguing. During the party earlier, Jiyeon talked to Mr. Kim who is a very important client of the company. With the help of Eunjung, Jiyeon managed to convince Mr. Kim to entrust to her Kim Enterprises’s latest product to their company, Park Inc which is one of the top ad companies in the country.

“What? I managed to get the account.” Jiyeon said proudly.

“By promising to give the commercial and print ad by next week! Do you know that it takes months before we can produce a draft? A draft! Just a draft! While you promised to give the final ad in a week!” Hyomin exclaimed.

Jiyeon was finally beginning to realize what she had just done. No wonder Mr. Kim agreed so easily to her proposal.

“What’s done is done.” Mr. Park said to stop the two. “Jiyeon, you handle this project.”

“What?” Hyomin protested.

“It’s only right since Jiyeon closed the deal with Mr. Kim. And the client expects Jiyeon to head this project.” Mr. Park explained.

“Appa…” Jiyeon could not believe that her father agreed to this so easily.

“Hyomin make sure you oversee this project.”

“What?!” The two exclaimed.

“Jiyeon is still new to this. So I expect you two to work together.” Mr. Park said to which the two can’t do anything but to follow the old man’s command.

--

Jiyeon wasted no time and started meeting with one of the best team in the company. They started planning from the concept, the endorser and every little detail. Though Hyommin could not attend the meeting because she has her own duties as acting CEO, she is still in the loop with what was happening. Jiyeon didn’t mind it anyway; in fact she preferred that Hyomin is not around.

The shooting venue is outside the city. Jiyeon and her team went early to set up everything. Everything is on scheduled. Kwon Yuri is their chosen model for the brand. Yuri is an idol/actress/host/model. She is perfect for the brand. Yuri’s manager is on her way. Photographer Choi is one of the respected photograhers in the country. He is also on his way. Hyomin had to attend a meeting that morning so she will go to the venue after her meeting.

Everything was all set until Photographer Choi arrived smelling like alcohol. The shoot was terrible with the photographer trying to change the shoot into a y concept. Jiyeon stopped the shoot because she cannot take the man’s attitude. Photographer Choi was arrogant enough because he thinks that Jiyeon needs him for the shoot. The small talk led to a heated argument until Jiyeon decided to fire the photographer and his team on the spot.

As Hyomin arrived, the photographer was already on his way out. “What happened?”

“Jiyeon ssi fired Photograper Choi.” One of the staff explained what happened.

“Do we have a new photographer?” Jiyeon asked her staff. She was really stressed out. They had to complete the shoot today or else… she’s doomed. They only had a week to prepare the ad before presenting it to Mr. Kim. She does not regret firing the arrogant photographer but she just realized that finding one in short notice is very difficult. Yuri’s schedule is also packed so they have to shoot today. She’s losing it.

“So everything is set? We only need a photographer?” Hyomin asked looking at Jiyeon.

“A photographer, a director... a whole team.” Jiyeon answered obviously stressed out.

“OK then we just have to make use of what we currently have.” Hyomin said tryig to hype up the downcasted team. All eyes were on her as she removed her blazer and folded the sleeves of her white shirt. ‘She looked so stylish’ is what’s running on everyone’s mind.

“What do you mean?” Jiyeon, who was the only one able to snap back to reality from being mesmerized by Hyomin, asked.

“We just have to work together with me as your photographer.” Hyomin said smiling. Jiyeon was going to rebut but Hyomin beat her by saying, “We’re a team remember?” The whole team hyped up and urged Jiyeon to agree. Jiyeon finally agreed making everyone cheered. Hyomin broke into a wide grin and even high fived the other staffs.

Jiyeon watched Hyomin. It was a different Hyomin that was in front of her.

“Park Hyomin” Yuri greeted as she walked on the shoot.

“Kwon Yuri” Hyomin greeted back with a camera on hand. “Will it be alright with you if I’ll be your photographer?”

Everyone in the room was surprised that they talk casually.

“Are you kidding me? I’m ecstatic.”

“I haven’t done this in a long while. But I’ll try my best to make you look pretty.”

“I trust you. Besides it was your shot that launch me into the modelling industry.”

Everyone in the room cannot help but listen to the casual conversatioin happening between their snobbish CEO and top model. Jiyeon who was seating behind the monitor was surprised and intrigued as well.

“I heard you’re CEO now.”

“Acting CEO”

“Acting CEO then. Is that the reason why you gave up photography?” Yuri asked.

Hyomin paused. “Who said I gave up photography?”

“Well if you need a secretary, I’ll be happy to work for you.”

“Haha. Go change for your next outfit Kwon.”

The shoot ended great. The staffs were packing up. Jiyeon was looking at Hyomin’s shoots earlier. They are all great like it was taken by a professional. Jiyeon kept thinking about what Yuri said earlier. About Hyomin giving up photography. Watching Hyomin earlier, Jiyeon can see how genuinely happy Hyomin was.

“Jiyeon ssi, everything is set.” One of the staff said.

“You can go. I just need to prepare a few things.”

“It’s ok, I’ll drive her.” Hyomin answered for Jiyeon. Hyomin walked inside and took her jacket.

“You did great.” Jiyeon said. She has so many things to say. To ask.

“You did great too.” Hyomin replied.

It was one of those rare genuine moments that they haven’t shared in a very long time.

“Are you ready?”

“Not yet. I just wanted to prepare for my presentation.” Jiyeon answered. Though the presentation is in two days, Jiyeon practiced everyday. Hyomin sat back on the chair. “You don’t have to wait for me.”

“How would you go home?” Hyomin asked. Jiyeon has no choice but to practice in front of Hyomin.

At first Hyomin just listened intently. Afterwards, she gave a few pointers. Then they strated practicing together. There was a smile. A shot of embarrassment. And laughter.  

“Yah! I’m not a chicken!”

“You are! You were like this (Hyomin acted how a chicken bobs its head) when I was explaining earlier.”

“I wasn’t!” Jiyeon defended. Later on Jiyeon realizes that Hyomin was right. They exchanged glances before they bursted laughing. It was the first time in a long time Jiyeon has heard Hyomin laugh so heartily.

It was the first time in a long time Hyomin has laughed heartily… and it was because of Jiyeon.

The laughter died down and it became slightly awkward. They decided to go home but the door was locked outside. The guard has locked it thinking that there was no one left inside.

They tried calling out but both of their phones emptied. Feeling exhausted and hungry, Jiyeon sat on the bench in the middle of the set they prepared.

Click.

Hyomin grinned before seating next to Jiyeon.

“I’m tired and hungry and sleepy.” Jiyeon whined.

“You can sleep here.” Hyomin was about to stand up so Ji can sleep on the bench. Ji held Hyo and she leaned her head on Hyo’s shoulder. Hyomin put the jacket on Jiyeon. They stayed on that position for a while. The next morning the guard opened the gate walking Ji and Hyomin up. Jiyeon was surprised to see that she slept on Hyomin’s lap. The drive home was quiet and awkward.

--

It’s the day of the presentation. Jiyeon was very nervous standing in front of Mr. Kim and the rest of the board. Jiyeon decided to start her presentation but instead the commercial playing, a video of her and Hyomin was played. It was when they were locked up inside. It was a 10 second video and in the video Jiyeon was leaning her head on Hyomin. Hyomin gave a Jiyeon a goodnight kiss like when they were kids. Then Hyo let Ji sleep comfortably on her lap.

Jiyeon was shocked for two reasons. One was how Hyomin treated her when she was asleep. Secretly she was happy. Two, she wondered who could have done this to ruin her presenation. She saw Hyomin wearing an equally shocked expression. She was on the verge on crying not knowing how to continue. Hyomin stood up and walked beside Jiyeon. “First I do not know how this video got here. We were not aware that this video was taken. This happened when we were locked inside the venue. We will take action on whoever is behind this. We apologize.” Hyomin bowed while Jiyeon was still standing behind her. “The rumors are true. Jiyeon and I didn’t have a good relationship. When we were given a chance to work together in a project with lots of things happened including this one, Jiyeon and I have patched things up. Mr. Kim, this is not the presentation we’ve prepared but your product has help patch a family’s relationship like ours. Imagine how many relationship your product can help.” Hyomin looked at Jiyeon and signaled her to start the commercial ad. The presentation was a success thanks to Hyomin’s speech. They were able to close the deal.

--

Jiyeon decided to go to Eunjung’s office to give the news about her success. On her way, she heard Hyomin and Eunjung arguing inside. She hid herself by the wall.

“I know it was you.” Says Hyomin. “My staff traced it to you.”

Eunjung let out a sigh. “You were always this good, Hyomin. Always a step ahead of me. You always caught me. Why?”

“Pabo. I thought you love Jiyeon. Why did you do this to her?”

“I love her. I wanted her back.”

“You think by ruining her relationship you can win her back?!”

“No, I only wanted to ruin you. I thought when she came back, she’ll fight against you. But instead you two were getting along! I lost everything. I wanted you to feel what it’s like to lose everything you had.”

I already know how that feels. Hyomin thought. “Losing Jiyeon was all on you, Eunjung.” Hyomin was going to walk out.

“Hyomin.” Eunjung called. “Why did you let Jiyeon think that we slept together? When the truth is I slept with Qri. Qri who you were dating that time. Why?” Hyomin chose to ignore Eunjung. “Why?! Do you know why I slept with Qri? It was because of you! Jiyeon rejected me that night. I have always been there for her. While you always hurt her yet she always thinks about you. So I slept with Qri to hurt you.” Eunjung was shouting at Hyomin who was at the door.

“You slept with Qri because you wanted to hurt me? I wasn’t even dating Qri that time. You choose to hurt yourself. You blame me because you lost Jiyeon? When it was all because of your stupidity.” Hyomin walked out after saying those words. Jiyeon hid herself so Hyomin could not see her.

Jiyeon walked inside Eunjung’s office. “Jiyeon?”

“I heard everything.” Jiyeon said in a coarse voice. Eunjung sat back down her chair. “All these years… All these years you made me believe that it was Hyomin…” Ji lost her strength and she leaned on the door.

“Jiyeon…” Eunjung rushed to Jiyeon.

“Don’t touch me.” Ji swatted Eunjung’s hands away.

All these years she hated Hyomin because of a lie. She was stupid enough to assumed that Hyomin can do this to her. She was stupid enough because she let Eunjung played her. She hates Eunjung. How can Hyomin let her be? Why didn’t Hyomin fight for the truth?

Suddenly Jiyeon’s phone ring breaking her train of thought. She was told that her mother was rushed to the hospital.

“Umma!” Jiyeon went to hug her mother who was lying on the hospital bed. “What happened?”

The doctor explained that Mrs. Park’s health is getting worse. That she needs to be treated but the lady refuses to have an operation. Jiyeon and Mr. Park tried to convince Mrs. Park to undergo surgery but the lady is hard headed and continues to refuse. Mr. Park called Hyomin to come to the hospital. Jiyeon didn’t say anything but she was asking why her father needs Hyomin’s help to convince her mother.

Hyomin was already in the hospital parking lot all the time. She couldn’t find the strength to go inside. Only when Mr. Park called her that she went inside.   

“Hyomin ah” Mrs. Park called when Hyomin went inside the room.

Mr. Park went to Hyomin and said, “Talk to her.”

Jiyeon heard this and she couldn’t help but feel hurt especially when her father called her to leave Hyomin and her mother alone.

Hyomin sat beside Mrs. Park. “Go for the operation.” Hyomin said going straight to the point.

Mrs. Park smiled and said, “Call me Umma and I might just consider it.”

“Oh you’re playing that card eh?”

“Just trying my luck.”

“Come on. We are all here to support you. Not that you need any support since you are one strong woman… too strong. I doubt if you’re even a woman.” Hyomin teased.

“If I’m strong then why am I the one lying in this bed?”

“I don’t know… I think you are just faking it.”

Mrs. Park hit Hyomin.

“See? You are strong.” Hyomin joked. The two of them laughed.

“What happened?” Mrs. Park asked. She knew Hyomin by the back of her hand. She treats Hyomin as her own daughter even though Hyomin refuses to call her umma. She knew Hyomin has her reasons for not calling her umma. Hyomin tells her everything. Everything. Because Hyomin cannot lie to Mrs. Park. Mrs. Park knew all that has happened between Hyomin and Jiyeon and even the things Hyomin does not want to admit.

“I thought someone a lesson not to mess up with me.” Hyomin answered vaguely but it was enough for Mrs. Park.

“You always teach someone a lesson maybe you should have been a teacher instead.” Mrs. Park joked to lighten up.

“Ayy… you always try to change the topic. Go for the surgery.”

“Tell me one reason why.”

“For Jiyeon.” Hyomin answered.

Mrs. Park understood. She nodded. She knew Hyomin’s love for Jiyeon. Hyomin never admitted it but all the things Hyomin has done was always for Jiyeon. She nodded not only for Jiyeon but also for Hyomin. She promised that after the operatioin, her next project is to make Hyomin and Jiyeon together.

Mrs. Park has ageed to undergo surgery. Jiyeon was glad but she was hurt because her mother only listens to Hyomin. She tried to suppress her jealousy because it wasn’t the time for that. What was important is that her mother agreed to have surgery.

Hyomin never visited after that day. Mrs. Park will ask for Hyomin and Jiyeon is running out of excuses. She decided to call Hyomin, “Umma’s surgery is tomorrow. At least visit her before that.” Late that night Hyomin came in. Jiyeon who was sleeping was woken up but she pretended to still be sleeping.

“You came.” Mrs. Park whispered.

“You’re supposed to be sleeping.” Hyomin whispered not wanting to disturb anyone. They were whisphering but it was clear enough for Jiyeon to hear.

“Thank you for the flowers. I knew you asked the nurse to change the flowers everyday.”

Hyomin just smiled. “You should rest so you can have enough energy for tomorrow’s surgery.”

“Call me umma and I will have all the strength I need for the surgery.”

Hyomin shook her head.

“You just wanted me to sleep so you can leave.” Mrs. Park said.

“Fine. I will stay until you fell asleep, you stubborn woman.” Hyomin teased but she kissed the old lady goodnight making Mrs. Park smile.

Hyomin watched Mrs. Park as she fell asleep. “Thank you. You were always there for me. I have made it this far because you were always there. I know you’ll make it because you are a strong woman. You are the strongest among anyone I know. You are the purest among anyone I know.” Hyomin wiped her tears away. “Please stop asking me to call you Umma. You see, I can’t call you Umma. I couldn’t take that away from her. Not when you are the only person in her life that is pure. Everyone else around her is already corrupted by greed and darkness. So please don’t ask me again because I might just give in. You may not see me after this but always remember that I love you.”

“I know.” Hyomin was startled to see Mrs. Park awake. “I love you too Pabo.” Hyomin kissed Mrs. Park one more time before bidding goodnight.

Jiyeon was trying so hard to stifle her sobs. She was foolish for getting jealous of Hyomin for no apparent reason. When she thought Mrs. Park was asleep, she went out to take a breather unaware that her mother knew she was awake all the time.

--

Hyomin called for an important board meeting. The rumor that the company is losing money and that Hyomin was selling the company reached them because of Eunjung. Everyone was present.

“Thank you for being here in this meeting.” Hyomin inhaled. “I am here to address your concerns. The rumors are true. The company is losing money despite our good performance. I can go on the detail but it will bore you. The bottom line is it was all my fault.”

There were protests coming from the board.

“The second rumor that I am going to sell the company, is also partly true.” Again there were protests. “The only solution I can think of to atone for my mistakes is to sell my shares. All profits will be my payment for the money I’ve lost.”

“You could have consulted us with this.” One of the board says.

“You are right I should have tell you about the company losing money. But for selling my shares? That’s none of your concern.”

“Excuse me?” Another one said.

“Yes, it is my shares. Besides it’s not like I’m going to sell it to any of you. I don’t trust any you.” Hyomin boldly said. “I find a buyer whom I can entrust the company with. You can rest assure that she will continue the company’s legacy. She will make a few changes… scratch that… major changes in the company management. I can say that the company is in safer hands.”

“You might have been able to pay the money you’ve lost but your shares are not enough to have control over the company.”

“You are right. I only have 30% of the company shares. But Chairman Park and Mrs. Park both agreed to sell their shares as well making it 55%. Enough to have control over the company.”

“Is this your way of taking over the company?”

“In fact, I’m quitting. Effective immediately.” Hyomin said and left the room.

Eunjung followed Hyomin outside.

“This is not over Hyomin.” Eunjung called.

“Actually it is.” Hyomin answered back. “Arent you happy? I’m no longer in the company. But you’ll never get your hands on the company as well.”

“Do you think I didn’t know the truth?”

“Have a life Eunjung.”

“Do you think I didn’t know that it was Mr. Park, my father and half of the people inside who lost the company’s money?!” Eunjung relvealed. Hyomin stopped walking. When she was going to walk again, Eunjung shouted, “Why? Why did you take the fall for them?”

Hyomin walked back and faced Eunjung, “You want to know why? It’s because I’ve already lost everything. So I have nothing left to lose.” Hyomin left the stunned Eunjung.

--

After a 2 months

“Breathe in. Hold. Breathe out.”

Suspended in the air, Hyomin followed the yoga instructor.

Hyomin decided to move out of the Parks and settled in a beach house her parents left her. She opted for a simpler life. Every now and then she will write to Mrs. Park. Mr. and Mrs. Park decided to retire and enjoy their lives.

“Jiyeon?” Hyomin asked when she saw Jiyeon standing outside her house.

“I see why you never want to leave this place.” Jiyeon said.

“Come inside.” Hyomin opened her beach house and led Jiyeon inside. “How are you?”

“I came here to ask you questions, please answer them. You owe me.”

Hyomin nodded.

“Why did you start avoiding me when we were kids? Do you hate me then?”

“I never hated you.”

“Then why?”

“One the first day of school, I found out that my parents were dead from a bully. I thought they were just away. Well that was what your parents told me. So I had a fight with the bully. I was brought to the nurse and given a lollipop. They also called your Appa to school. That day he explained to me everything. I was so angry. I didn’t know how to hande it. We were both young then.”

“That’s why you avoided me?”

“Yes, I was mad and angry. I knew I was hurting you. I was feeling guilty.”

“You could have just said sorry. We could have gone back to how we used to be.”

“I didn’t want to go back to how we used to be. I didn’t want us to be sisters anymore. I started to have these feelings for you. I knew it wasn’t right so I tried to supress it. But I can’t so I chose to ignore you.”

“So that’s why you put distance in between us. That you didn’t even care when your friends bullied me.”

“When I learn what they did to you, I… well… I taught them a lesson not to come anywhere near you.”

“Why you didn’t tell me that it wasn’t you who slept with Eunjung?”

“Would it make any difference? You were already hurting.”

“It would have made a lot difference. The reason I rejected Eunjung that time was because of you. Even though you were distancing yourself, I kept thinking about you. I was hurt because I thought it was you. I hated you because I can’t stop my feeling for even after what I thought you did. All the time I was in China, I hate you and myself for still loving you.”

“I…”

“You didn’t know and you are sorry. No wonder Umma calls you a pabo.”

“…”

“I learned everything you did for Appa and the company from Eunjung. So I confronted Appa and sold all my shares.”

“Jiyeon why? You didn’t have to.”

“I wanted to. I wanted nothing to do with the company.”

“So what do you plan to do next?”

“I’m broke. I’m hungry and I need a place to stay.”

“I have enough space here… if you’ll consider it.”

“I thought you’d never ask.” Jiyeon smiled. She held out her hand to Hyomin. Hyomin reached out and Jiyeon intertwined their hands. “There, from now on, I will never let you go. Don’t you dare try to let go because I won’t let you. I’m holding onto you forever.”

“Together.”

“Forever.”

“So what do we do next?”

“I don’t know. Aren’t you the brains between the two of us?”

“You said you were hungry so how about we eat?”

The two went out to a diner nearby and eat. Along the way they saw a stray cat.

“Maybe we should own a pet. How about this cat?” Hyomin asked pointing at the cat.

“Or that cat?” Jiyeon pointed another cat. They continued cat shopping until they finaly chose one.

“So what do we name her?”

“How about… Cat?”

“I like it. What do you think, Cat?”