Chapter 1: First Encounter

Lee Jieun

“Hi.” I heard someone beside me say. I don't respond. I know it wasn't meant for me. So I just continue watching the group of people dancing like there's no tomorrow, some holding cans of cola as if they're alcoholic beverages, acting all cool. I sighed. Why does my oppa have to be so popular? Captain of the Basketball team. President of the Student Body. Number 1 in the whole school. Who wouldn't know him? Everyone admired him. Teachers and students in our school liked him. Heck, even our dog likes him better than me. That's my oppa for you.

I'm not saying that I hate my older brother because it's just the other way around. I love him so much and he's the best big bro anyone could wish for. It's just that his popularity is out of this world and when I entered high school everyone at school was just dying to see THE younger sister. It's like all of them were scrutinizing my every move. I don't like the attention caused by his popularity. I don't know how oppa can stand all these attention. He always says that I'll get used to it but I think I never would. I was never a 'people person' to begin with. Hence the reason why I am here sitting here alone watching oppa's birthday party in full swing.

“Hello? Anybody home?” Someone was lightly shaking my arm. I looked at the person, looking confused. “Finally, I thought I was speaking to a ghost for a moment there.”

“Uhm, sorry, I thought you were calling someone else.” I explained. He looks familiar, somehow.

“We're in the same year together. My classroom is just next to yours so maybe that explains why I look familiar to you.” Wow. How did he know what I was thinking? “I can tell just by looking at your face.” Again. Wow.

Then suddenly I laughed. “Am I really that of an open book?”

“No, I am just really good at mind reading.” That shut me up. “Haha, I was just playing around. Yes, I can see your thoughts plainly on your face.” He laughed heartily and I joined him not long after.

When our laughters died down, he spoke. “ I'm Kim Jongin by the way.” He offered his hand to me.

“Lee Jieun.” I introduced myself while shaking his hand.

“So why aren't you enjoying your brother's party?”

“I'm not into these kinds of things. I just went down from my room b