Kay࣪ ִֶָ☾.

• It Has To Be You:

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4 | part 5 | part 6 | part 7

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: song kang x OC x rowoon

ᯓᡣ𐭩 "Two childhood best friends who both shared their young love that is truly so unforgettable, but then their friendship was separated by unforeseen circumstances. After 20 years, they saw each other again in a summer getaway from a mutual friend of theirs. What would happen in that whole week of the getaway?"

• Marked

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: wi hajoon x OC

ᯓᡣ𐭩 "A well-known celebrity and his devoted manager cross the line between professionalism and desire when a daring photoshoot ignites unspoken passions—leaving them questioning where business ends and longing begins."

• Power Play - coming soon

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: ju jihoon x OC

ᯓᡣ𐭩 "A powerful CEO, Jihoon, and his sharp, confident secretary, Jeonghwa, grapple with forbidden desire after an unexpected happening at a charity gala. As boundaries blur between duty and passion, unspoken jealousy and years of simmering tension ignite into a steamy, dangerous affair that neither of them can ignore—but one that could upend their professional lives forever."

• Angelic - coming soon

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: min yoongi x park jimin

ᯓᡣ𐭩 "the date 2.22.22 is where people say the angels will come down to earth from heaven and grant wishes to some people. One of the angels who picked to grant wishes is Park Jimin, and his mission is to be the wingman for Min Yoongi, a music major student, to make him confess his feelings towards Lee Donghoon, his senior in the same major."

• Distracted - coming soon

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: kim mingyu x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 "You come home frustrated from work, as you vent out to him. He listens—sort of."

• One of Us

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: roger taylor x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “You came home from a family vacation to surprise Roger in his flat, and little did you know you have to face your biggest nightmare…”

• Heart of Mine:

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 3 alternate ending

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: roger taylor x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “She’s his bestfriend, her forever companion after all the years. She wants to say everything she feels towards him, but she guessed she’s just too late…”

• Trapped in Montreux:

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4 | part 5 | part 6 | part 7 | part 8 *MOODBOARD FOR TRAPPED IN MONTREUX

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: roger taylor x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “You got a job as a bartender in a yacht somewhere in Switzerland, and you didn’t know that the yacht was rented by a famous band for the whole weekend…”

• Take it easy

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: roger taylor x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “You have been having a huge crush on your friend Roger back when you’re still in college. Now he’s a rising rockstar and selling out universities in UK. You’re still finding the time to tell your feelings to him because that silence inside your heart kills you slowly. But he suddenly put up an argument with you that pretty sure broke the friendship a little bit. How will you both recover from that?…

• Lost Without You

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: roger taylor x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “Mistakes were proven. Now you’ve seen it and felt the pain that suffers you in the heart right there in the scene you’ve caught. He knows what he did was unforgivable but he wants you to forgive him still, but it’s just impossible…”

• Hold Me Close Before I Go

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: roger taylor x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “In 1982, you are invited to his wedding. He was the love of your life before, but now you’re just watching him showing his love with another woman, that is supposed to be you. You can’t stop but to remember the things that had happened between the both of you that really struck your heart…”

• Heartbreak Weather:

part 1 | part 2 *MOODBOARD FOR HEARTBREAK WEATHER

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: roger taylor x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “It’s the story about the unexpected love between you and Roger Taylor that had lasted through thick and thin, through the challenges and darkness as you both find a way to prove that love is unbreakable…”

• A Night to Remember

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: joe mazello x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “Your life-long friend Rami called you in to come with them in a Queen+Adam Lambert concert. It turns out you’ll be facing your celebrity crush, Joe Mazello…”

• Boyfriend Stealer

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: rami malek x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “You and your boyfriend, Rami went to attend the Met Gala 2019 and in the after party, someone just stole him from you in that party…”

• Unexpectedly

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: ben hardy x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “You’re the only daughter of the famous actor James McAvoy and in his major film, X-Men, you have met someone that would unexpectedly change your life…”

• Friendly Gesture

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: gwilym lee x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “Gwilym takes you to his parent’s summer cabin and everything just got carried away…”

• So close, yet so far

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: john deacon x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “After your major heartbreak, you have called the only friend that will always listen to what you’ll say. Confessions exposed unhand, but would he feel the same way too?…”

• Mutual Melodies

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: john deacon x reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 “In the summer of 1975, you’re working as Paul Prenter’s assistant and asks you to come with him in Ridge Farm for the recording for Queen’s upcoming album. While the band isn’t around in the studio, you tried singing by yourself with the song you’re randomly making until John Deacon found you alone there…”

• Chasing Dreams:

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4 | part 5 | part 6 | part 7 | part 8 | part 9 | part 10 | part 11 *MOODBOARD FOR CHASING DREAMS

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing: queen x reader

The dress that I neatly prepared for last night’s party is all unruly and wrinkly and one of the straps is dangling off my shoulder. Upon seeing myself, I buried my face in my hands and cursed about everything I did. This is why I've not touched alcohol for the past few years.

A flood of hazy memories crashed over me. The party. The shots. The laughter. The dancing. Me randomly waking up in Yoobin and Sunhee’s bedroom—and Hojun…with Haesoo.

I winced when my head throbs again, and so is my heart.

I can’t believe I saw that and I feel even more pathetic now that I’m sober. I didn’t do anything, not even call Hojun out, or confront Haesoo. I just stood there like a deer in headlights. How can I even argue with them, knowing that they’re exes and I’m just the person who he spent his childhood with.

But an unforgettable childhood.

“Why did I just swallow my pride and walk away from them? Maybe I should’ve asked Hojun what really is between us and—”

Then something hit me.

Taeha.

The kiss.

My breath caught in my throat as the memory sharpened. How I pulled him in a desperate kiss because of too much emotions that night. Panic bloomed in my chest as I looked down on the ground, instantly feeling the shame and regret as my head throbbed in protest.

I kissed him. I kissed my friend.

I wanted to just scream out, to undo time, to somehow erase the moment from existence. Taeha had been in my life for years—through hardships in our work, late-night vent sessions, and ridiculous inside jokes. I had never crossed that line before. And now…I have ruined everything.

Now it felt too awkward to face both Taeha and Hojun right now. After that day in the woods with Hojun, I thought everything would be alright, but now, I think it’s getting worse. And tomorrow is our last day, I really don’t want to hold drama until it becomes too much for my mental health.

All I think about is how am I going to clarify things.

After fighting with my inner thoughts in front of this mirror, I finally took a shower that literally eased up my tense self, changed up to my clean and comfortable clothes then left the room. My eyes dropped on Hojun’s door as I remembered everything that happened behind those doors, making my cheeks turn in shade of red again.

I shook off my thoughts and went downstairs, where I was surprised that Taeha and Dohyun are just peacefully snacking together and watching TV. Taeha looked okay and I think he’s already done with his hangover, but Dohyun on the other hand, looked like he hadn't slept in days. I just know he had a dreadful hangover.

Last night was really fun. Now, there was only suffering.

I quietly made my way to the kitchen and drank some water, also getting a chocolate bar from the fridge to boost up my energy. When I was about to escape to the back door, I heard Dohyun called out.

“Eunji? Is that you in the kitchen?”

I cursed under my breath. How does he even know that it’s me since he’s too focused on the TV earlier.

“Yeah…” I just admitted, “But I’ll just go outside for a bit.”

Dohyun pouted, “We’re watching Anastasia, I know you love this movie.” He smiled.

Now he’s reeling me in using my most favorite animated film ever. And when someone calls me up to watch Anastasia, I am there and always going to be there. Of course, I joined them. I felt the thick awkward atmosphere between me and Taeha, no words leaving from our mouths, the only focus we have is the movie right now.

Halfway through the movie, I noticed that Dohyun is already sleeping on the couch, and the next thing I didn’t know it would happen is that Taeha finally spoke in our deafening silence earlier.

“Eunji, can we talk outside?”

I gulped.

“Uh, yeah, sure,” I nodded, but my eyes reverted back to Dohyun, “Should we just leave Dohyun here?”

Taeha shrugged and soon stood up from the couch, “Yeah, he should be fine.” He replied.

Me and Taeha finally went outside towards the lake shore. It’s already afternoon and the golden sunlight shimmers across the rippling water, creating a dance of glistening reflections. Gentle waves lap against the pebbled shore. The sky, painted in soft blues with streaks of wispy white clouds, casts a warm glow over the landscape, making the lake appear almost ethereal. I will truly miss this place.

I am still standing awkwardly beside him, feeling unreasonably nervous.

“So…about last night.” I started.

His lips twitched. "Yeah. About that."

I inhaled deeply. "Look, I was very, very drunk. And when I get drunk, I apparently get bold. And stupid. And—I don’t know what got into me, but I just—"

"You kissed me," he finished.

I winced. "Yeah."

There was a pause. I expected it to be awkward, but it wasn’t. He looked at me with that same calm expression, the one that made me feel like I could say anything and he wouldn’t judge me.

"You don’t have to explain yourself," Taeha said. "I know you were drunk. And it’s okay."

I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. "I just don’t want this to be weird between us. You’re too important to me, and I don’t want some…drunken mistake to mess things up."

“Don’t worry, you didn’t mess things up. We’re still us.” Taeha smiled, and my heart swells.

I blinked at him. "So… we’re okay?"

"We’re okay." He brought his hand on top of my head and messed around my hair, causing me to groan and playfully pushed his hand away, making Taeha chuckle. 

He soon added, "Though, I do think I should start keeping track of how many drinks you have at parties.” He grinned.

I groaned, my head dropping down. "I’m so sorry, I feel so pathetic."

He laughed, that warm, familiar sound, and just like that, the tension melted away between us.

And maybe, just maybe, something had changed—but in a way that didn’t break anything.

In a way that left the door open for something more.

But for now, we were okay. And that was enough.

This is such a spontaneous idea.

Me and Taeha are both holding some snacks and drinks, clothes, towels, and a blanket. Taeha first laid down the blanket on the grass and put all of our things there. Kicking off our shoes, we raced down the wooden dock, our bare feet slapping against the sun-warmed planks. Without hesitation, we leaped into the lake, the cool water embracing us as we plunged beneath the surface. Bubbles streamed around as we resurfaced, gasping with exhilaration and grinning at each other.

“The water feels amazing!” I exclaimed, letting my body float around.

Then suddenly, a huge splash of the water slapped my face, and that interrupted my serene floating here. I looked at Taeha who was giggling like a little kid on what he just did, and I gave him a mischievous smirk.

“You’re gonna regret that.”

We spent the next several minutes battling in the water, splashing, laughing, and dodging each other’s playful attacks. The sound of our joy echoed over the lake, mixing with the rustling trees and distant calls of birds overhead. After a while, we drifted toward the deeper part of the lake, floating on our backs. The sky above was a beautiful golden hue, unmarred by clouds. Our arms occasionally brushed, neither of us moving away.

“This is perfect,” Taeha murmured. “I wish this could last forever.”

I turned my head slightly to look at Taeha. He had his eyes closed, his face relaxed as if soaking in every ounce of peace the lake offered. I smiled. “I wouldn’t mind that.”

We swam back toward the shallows, letting the water carry us lazily. When we finally reached the shore again, we just indulged in the snacks we brought here and watched the sky turn to orange and the sun getting ready to set. A light breeze soon whispered through the trees, carrying the scent of damp earth and pine. The water lapped gently at the shore, where smooth, time-worn stones lay scattered, perfect for skipping.

I soon found myself standing at the water’s edge, a small, flat rock cradled in my palm. I turned it over, feeling the cool weight of it, the slight roughness of its surface.

“You’re gripping it too hard,” Taeha said from behind me, stepping closer. His voice was low and warm, like the summer air around us.

I sighed, glancing up at him. “I don’t get how you make it look so easy. Mine just always plops into the water.”

Taeha chuckled, “Here, let me show you.”

Taeha reached for my hand, his fingers brushing against mine. My body tensed slightly, caught off guard by the brief contact, but I didn’t pull away. He gently adjusted my grip, making sure my index finger rested along the edge of the stone.

“Okay,” he murmured, stepping beside me so that our shoulders nearly touched. “Now, keep your wrist loose. The key is the angle. Flick your wrist, like this—”

He demonstrated his own rock skipping effortlessly across the water, bouncing three, four, five times before finally sinking beneath the surface. I let out a soft sigh of admiration.

“Now you try.”

I took a steadying breath, mimicking his stance. With a quick flick of my wrist, I released the stone. It struck the water once, twice—three times before vanishing beneath the lake. A triumphant grin spread across my face.

“I did it!” I exclaimed, turning toward Taeha.

My breath caught in my throat when I am too close to him again, thinking about what I did last night haunts me. Taeha’s lips parted slightly, as if he was about to say something, but the words never came.

Finally, Taeha exhaled, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “Told you you’ll be good at this.” he said, his voice softer now.

I swallowed, blinking as if breaking free from some unseen pull. I let out a breathy laugh, shaking my head. “Yeah…and I will be better than you now.” I teased him again.

Taeha laughed at my sudden teasing, “Ha, think you can beat me now?”

I smirked, already reaching for another rock. We skipped rocks for almost half an hour and that leads me from giving up again, obviously knowing that Taeha is still the best at skipping rocks.

But at least the score improved from three over ten back in our first day here, to seven over twelve today.

The golden hues of the setting sun reflected off the calm surface of the lake. Laughter still echoed through the trees as we both gathered our things after an afternoon of swimming and skipping rocks. The water droplets on our sun-kissed skin sparkled under the dimming light, and the warmth of the summer air still clung to us.

My heart was light again—lighter than it had been after what happened last night. This has been the perfect way to end the week-long summer getaway.

Until now.

Just as we were about to enter the cabin again, I heard an all-too-familiar voice call out from behind.

“Eunji.”

The name came sharp, almost cutting through the serene twilight. I turned around, my stomach sinking when I saw her—Haesoo.

Taeha was even confused as to why Haesoo is suddenly approaching me since he knows that I haven’t interacted much with her throughout the week.

“Can I talk to you?” Haesoo said, but her voice came out a bit shaky.

I swallowed. I hadn’t expected this.

I felt Taeha instinctively step closer in silent support but I stopped him there. “You should go ahead inside Taeha, I’ll just talk to Haesoo for a bit.” I gave him a reassuring smile.

Taeha didn’t try to argue with me as he let out a sigh, now taking my things to return it back to our room. But before he left, he wrapped the towel around me and made sure that I won’t be too cold because my clothes are still a bit damp before he made his way inside the cabin, leaving me alone with Haesoo.

“What are we going to talk about—”

“Let’s talk over there.” Haesoo cut me off and headed her way to the far side of the cabin, just steps away from the trail that leads to the falls.

When we are now standing across each other, maintaining a distance between us since I still feel uneasy around her, not because he’s one of Hojun’s past and the one that made me feel anger last night of what she did, but instead the lack of proper interaction between us.

“I saw you last night…” Haesoo started, that shaky voice still there.

Ironic. That same five words is also the one I badly want to tell her.

“W-what?” I was very confused.

“You and Hojun, in the hallway.” Her voice is now laced with anger.

My eyes widened when she said that, remembering that moment with Hojun, how he craved for me as he wanted to touch me in that hallway. I even warned him that someone would walk in on us, turns out, someone really did.

"You really are something else," Haesoo said, her voice laced with bitterness. “Who even are you to do that with Hojun? It seemed impossible to just gather feelings in just a goddamn week.”

I took a breath, steadying myself. "Haesoo, I—"

“And you’re even hanging out with another guy after doing that to Hojun. You’re…you’re selfish. Do you even care about anyone but yourself?”

Her words hit me harder than I expected. A sharp pang settled in my chest. Everyone had been gossiping that her and Hojun are literal exes, meaning they broke up, their relationship is now gone, and Hojun clearly moved on.

And Haesoo is still holding onto Hojun.

I felt the weight of the moment pressing down on me. I could hear the quiet lapping of the lake against the dock, the rustling of leaves in the evening breeze. My heart pounded.

"Haesoo, I never meant to hurt you," I finally said, voice calm but firm. “But me and Hojun…we had something—”

“Bullshit, I don’t remember an ounce of your face or name from Hojun, I—”

I cut her off, “Why? Are you certain that you know everything about Hojun?”

Now Haesoo was silent. She wants to argue again, but with her clenched fists, she tries not to.

I exhaled, “Me and Hojun…we had history way, way back. When we are still little kids.” I explained.

Haesoo's ears perked up when I brought that up.

“We are the best of friends and totally inseparable. And before Hojun left for Australia, I confessed my love to him. We haven't seen each other for over 20 years, and I was surprised that Hojun still has feelings for me. I can't help myself but react the same because the feelings I have for him are still there.” I explained, but when I looked into Haesoo's eyes, I knew she's not believing every word I've been saying right now.

Haesoo lets out a humorless laugh, “Since you're the lucky one here, you have no idea what I'm going through. To watch someone you loved the most slip away, only to see them fall right into someone's arms. I haven't seen him flirt or romantically interact with anybody after our break-up, it's just you.”

No, I didn't know that pain—not yet. But that didn't mean she had the right to make me feel guilty for being happy.

A heavy silence fell between us. The sun had almost fully dipped behind the treeline now, and the shadows stretched longer across the dock.

I exhaled deeply. I wasn’t going to let Haesoo's words define me. "I didn’t come here to fight with you, Haesoo," I said softly. "I’m sorry if this hurts, but I won’t apologize for being happy. You deserve happiness too. And one day, you’ll find it."

For a moment, Haesoo just stared at me. Then, without another word, she turned on her heel and walked away, disappearing down the path leading back to the cabin.

I let out a breath that I didn’t realize I was holding on for so long.

Haesoo now knows about my past with Hojun, but I think she's still not buying it. I just shrugged off my thoughts when the breeze is now nipping on my skin, sending chills down my spine.

While I was walking back to the cabin, the confrontation still lingered in my mind. But I knew one thing for sure—I wasn’t going to let anyone make me feel guilty for following my own heart.

Moonlight slipped through the curtains, painting silver streaks over my tangled sheets. Yet, despite the silence, despite the comfort of my own bed, sleep refused to come.

My mind was too loud.

I turned onto my side, staring at the dim glow of the digital clock on the bedside table—2:37 AM. I squeezed my eyes shut, willing to push away the memory of Haesoo's voice, the sharpness in her words, the accusation laced with pain.

You're selfish, Haesoo's words echoed again.

I exhaled slowly, shifting onto my back. I knew I shouldn’t let it get to me. I had done nothing wrong—did I? They broke up. I wasn’t some villain who had swooped in and stolen him from her.

But still…

The look in Haesoo's eyes haunted me.

I turned onto my stomach, burying my face into the pillow with a frustrated groan. I wished I could shut these thoughts off like a switch, erase the moment, let it disappear like footprints washed away by the lake’s gentle waves. But emotions weren’t that simple.

A heavy sigh escaped my lips as I rolled onto my back again, staring at the ceiling.

I wasn’t heartless. I hadn’t meant to hurt Haesoo.

I turned to my side and that's where my heart skipped a beat when I saw Taeha sitting up from his bed as he turned to look at me.

“Taeha?” I whispered, “Did I wake you?”

“You looked troubled.” Taeha replied, tilting his head in curiosity, “Did Haesoo say something bad earlier? You still haven't explained why she suddenly wanted to talk to you. And judging from the tone of her voice, it feels like she's holding a grudge against you.”

Why is his intuition always right?

I sighed as I sat up from my bed too, “I'll explain everything now.”

My heart kept beating loudly in my chest as I tried to find the right words on how I can even start this conversation.

“If you feel uncomfortable then it's okay—”

“Me and Hojun had a past.” I finally blurted it out, right here in front of Taeha.

Silence. Taeha didn’t say anything, but I could feel his stare pressing into mine, waiting for more explanation.

I forced myself to continue. “I told you I didn’t know him when we first saw him again, but that wasn’t true. I do know him.” I finally lifted my gaze to meet Taeha’s, guilt swirling in my chest. “I’ve known him for a long time.”

Taeha’s lips parted slightly, as if he wanted to say something, but he stayed silent. His expression was unreadable, which somehow made it worse.

I inhaled shakily. “Hojun… he was my childhood friend. He was more than that.” My voice softened. “I liked him. A lot. He was my whole world back then.”

A shadow flickered across Taeha’s face, but still, he didn’t interrupt.

A small, sad smile tugged at my lips. “But then, one day… he just left. He left for Australia with his family and I didn't know they would never come back.”

My voice wavered as I looked at Taeha, my heart pounding. “When I saw him, I panicked. I didn’t know what to do, what to say. So I lied. I told you I didn’t know him because…”

My thoughts trailed off, stopping on what I'm about to say.

Because I have these weird feelings that I feel about you that I truly can’t explain.

Can I even tell him that?

“Because…” My tongue is still tied.

But Taeha interrupted me now, “It's okay, don't explain further if you feel uncomfortable sharing it with me. If you're thinking that you would lose me because you suddenly met your childhood best friend, please don't.”

Taeha stood up from his bed and suddenly knelt down in front of me, slowly holding my trembling hands that were resting on my lap.

“Always remember I won't leave this friendship. You're too important, and I don't want to lose you.” Taeha smiled at me warmly.

I've never felt so lucky to have a friend like him, a person that won't pressure me through life and a person that always makes sure that I'm smiling.

“I'm happy that you and Hojun reunited again, and there's no need for you to tell too much, since he's been in another chapter of your life that I don't have any business with.” Taeha said.

I nodded my head at him and I tried to regain my composure. I watched Taeha stand up again and suddenly took his phone out, clicking onto something and suddenly heard a familiar slow beat.

“Taeha—”

“Remember years ago? When we're still new teachers in the school, and a parent suddenly falsely accused you for flirting with her husband?” Taeha suddenly took a trip down memory lane.

I rolled my eyes, “You still remember that? God, I feel so miserable that day.”

“Right, and when we got home, you suddenly pulled me close to dance to this slow song, demanding me to just slow dance until you calm down.” Taeha smiled.

A shade of red crept up on my face again when I remembered that exact moment. I did that because it's my first time living away from home, and when I'm sad, my parents would usually rock me to a slow song and that would ease me up effectively.

“Oh, yeah, I remember.” I chuckled, “And you have two left feet at that time.” I teased.

Taeha scoffed and now he suddenly offered his hand to me, “Now you have to find out if I still have two left feet right now.”

I let out a soft laugh, shaking my head. “You’re serious?”

“Dance with me?”

My eyes lit up when he said that, and I gladly took his hand.

Taeha smiled as he pulled me close. One hand rested gently on my waist, the other holding my hand in his. I placed my free hand on his shoulder as we swayed.

The music played softly between us, a comforting lullaby in the quiet. I closed my eyes for a moment, letting myself sink into the rhythm.

Taeha's voice broke the silence. “You know, you don't have to think too much.”

I let out a small laugh against his chest. “You know I can't do that.”

We kept swaying, the song coming to its last few notes. Taeha hummed along, off-key as always, making me smile just a little.

As the music faded, he pulled back slightly, looking down at me. “Feeling better?”

I met his gaze and, for the first time tonight, the tightness in my chest loosened just a little.

“Yeah,” I murmured. “I think I am.”

Taeha grinned. “Good. Now, go to bed, it's our last day tomorrow and we still have to pack our things.”

I groaned when I remembered our last day will finally be tomorrow and I still haven't packed my things, but I still smiled as I stepped back. “Goodnight, Taeha.”

“Night, Eunji.”

As I climbed back to my bed again, slipping under my covers, I realized something.

The thoughts were still there, lingering at the edges of my mind.

But they weren’t so heavy anymore.

I gulped when he's too close to me as I look away, thinking how Hojun would react to how I act towards Taeha too, since I also experienced bottling up my feelings since we're both in college.

“I…I wanted to see the falls again, so I tried to follow the trail we've been to days ago.” I replied, my eyes are now staring at the ground, trying to stop myself from feeling things.

I don't want to make everything complicated.

Taeha's look is now filled with concern when he just heard me say that. “What? You took the trail alone? Are you even thinking that—”

“That I'm afraid of the woods? I want to overcome that fear, the fear of just being pathetic and not doubting myself. I faced it, Taeha, and I was happy that I faced it.” I said, my voice was a bit trembling.

From the words that escaped my mouth, I didn't think about my fear of being lost in the woods. All I thought was my fear of losing the person I cherished the most, and how I faced them again with any doubts, and ended up with the happiness that I've been looking for.

Taeha exhaled sharply, “How about the rain? Are you drenched when you're out there?” He questioned again.

“Yeah, but I'm fine.” My voice came out as a whisper.

My heart skipped a beat when Taeha cupped my cheek and then slowly dragged it to my forehead, feeling if I'm cold from the rain.

“You could get sick.” He stared at me in pure concern, his other hand was ghosting over mine, thinking if he could intertwine our fingers.

But when I took a step back from him, he knew he had to stop. “I'm fine Taeha, I took a shower immediately when I arrived. So don't worry too much about me.” I said as I sat down on my bed, where the two dresses that I've been planning to pick from are still laying. My eyes bore on the white dress that Taeha picked because he said I'll look beautiful in it.

“Are you still going to wear the dress?” Taeha asked, his eyes showing a hint of pleading.

I warmly smiled and took the white dress that he picked out for me earlier, “Of course, since you said I'll look beautiful in it.” I replied.

Taeha can't hide his smile again and nods his head at my reply, “Okay then, I'll see you later. I actually have to help Dohyun outside.”

“Okay, I'll see you tonight.”

Then Taeha left the room again.

I exhaled sharply over my overthinking self again. Feeling that inner argument within me as I still haven't decided that I'll explain everything to Taeha what is between me and Hojun. I just didn't want to have misunderstandings with such a fun night like tonight. I am finally promising myself that I'll be explaining everything to him tomorrow, or on our last day.

I laid down on my bed and just imagined what would be Taeha's reaction? Will he become distant or…will he accept Hojun?

“Why am I even drowning myself in overthinking again. I should be enjoying the last days of this getaway because I will never experience this again.” I said to myself, eyes glued on the ceiling.

The room was filled with the hum of my favorite playlist, the upbeat music uplifted my mood earlier as I got myself ready for tonight. I leaned closer to the mirror and finally put on my favorite lipstick, making the look subtle yet elegant, complementing my entire look effortlessly. Leaning back, I admired my reflection. The girl staring back at me looked confident, radiant, ready for a night of fun. I can already hear the music thumping outside, meaning that everything is now ready.

“Hm, Taeha really has a good eye with this dress.” I said to my reflection, twirling the dress around.

Suddenly, a knock on the door interrupted my thoughts.

“Eunji, are you ready yet?”

It was Taeha.

“Yeah, almost!” I called out, grabbing a pair of earrings and putting them on before stepping out of the room.

Taeha already got ready earlier before I started putting on my makeup and now he’s here, leaning against the doorframe, dressed casually in a button-up shirt and dark jeans. For a second there, he just stared.

“What?” I chuckled while putting on my sandals.

“Wow,” he breathed. “You look… amazing.”

I felt a sudden rush of warmth rise to my cheeks. “Well, you said I would look beautiful in this dress” I said, smiling as I twirled for effect in front of him.

Taeha grinned, shaking his head slightly. “I mean, yeah I said you’ll look beautiful, but when you’re actually in the dress right now, you look flawless.”

I snorted a laugh when he said that, nudging his shoulder playfully to hide the fluttering in my chest. “Alright, charmer, you look good too, now let’s go and enjoy the night.”

Me and Taeha finally went downstairs and out of the cabin. The evening sky was painted in hues of orange and pink as the sun dipped below the horizon. The warm summer breeze carried the scent of grilled food and the laughter of friends. Music echoed through the spacious backyard, where fairy lights were strung between the trees, casting a golden glow over the party.

My eyes gleamed in joy over this party, “Wow, Dohyun really did his best.” I complimented the place.

“Why thank you.”

I was startled when a voice came from behind me and saw that it’s Dohyun, who just heard my compliment.

It was Dohyun, who was smiling widely at the sight of the party with all of his friends having fun with the music, the food, and of course, the alcohol.

“This is now my favorite activity in this getaway so far.” I said.

Taeha and Dohyun stifled a laugh over my comment. “Really? I thought volleyball was your favorite?” Taeha teased me again, making me lightly punch his bicep.

Dohyun also laughed along with Taeha's teasing and I’m just pouting here between them. Then Dohyun poked my cheeks, trying to cheer me up.

“You should be smiling right now, everyone here is having a blast.” Dohyun chuckled, then soon left our side to entertain the others too.

My eyes scanned around the party, seeing the others already holding their drinks and enjoying the music. I still can't believe that we stayed here for almost a week now and I won't get over how the moon illuminates the calm current of the lake. And also the people I've interacted with in this getaway, Dohyun being the bestest friend, Taeha still the most patient one for me, and Hojun…who miraculously entered my life again. After everything that happened here, good or bad, should be celebrated.

“Should we get our drinks now?” I grinned at Taeha, who is clearly excited for tonight.

“We shall.” Taeha replied with a smile as we both made our way to the bar wherein a wide variety of drinks were served.

While me and Taeha were enjoying our small talk with our drinks, Yoobin and Sunhee also interacted with us and they added more gossip—which is their expertise. They mentioned Haesoo again, which made my ears perk up in interest.

“I saw Haesoo and her ex Hojun talking yesterday, I'm not sure but her voice sounds paranoid?” Sunhee gossips, making sure her voice is low.

“Just like Dohyun said, she's not over him but Hojun is clearly over her. She sounds paranoid and desperate.” Yoobin added.

I just stayed silent throughout the gossip and prevented myself from acting too much on the information I've heard again. I remember the day I saw Haesoo come out from Hojun's room, and now questions came spinning in my head again. In those days before me and Hojun reconnected, did he perhaps talk to Haesoo since they have history together? Is Haesoo asking for closure? Why am I overthinking again?

When my eyes went towards the others, I finally saw Hojun, who was talking to Dohyun—like an invisible thread, his eyes also trailed over to my direction, that fleeting glance sending warmth curling through my chest. It was a subtle exchange, unnoticed by anyone else.

I watched him take a swig on his drink, and I took some of mine too. My eyes followed his hand movements, of how he was tapping his wristwatch with his finger, showing me some message. And when Hojun finished his drink, he excused himself as he entered the cabin again.

Maybe that's also my cue.

I finished my drink and set it down the counter beside us, “I'll just go to the restrooms. The beer is messing up my bladder.” I said to Taeha, who is enjoying socializing with the others.

Taeha glanced at me, “Oh, alright, just call me up if you need help or if you're getting drunk.” He replied.

I nodded my head at him and finally went inside the cabin again. I look around the first floor and he's not here, then my feet dragged me upstairs and that's where my breath hitched when I finally saw Hojun leaning against his door, with that sly smirk on his face.

“So you did understand it.” Hojun smirked, referring to his so-called signal earlier.

I chuckled, “I actually don't, I was just curious.” I said, crossing my arms in front of my chest.

The silence that took over us gives off a suffocating feeling—it’s like the atmosphere is urging me to do something. But those inappropriate thoughts made me blush so hard again, flustered of how I'm thinking in front of him right now.

“The others are definitely looking for us—”

My words were interrupted when Hojun suddenly hooked his arms around my waist, pulling me close, and just embraced me like I was about to leave him forever. I am more flustered than before when he buried his face on my neck, the feeling of his hot breath fanning over my skin. His hands soon roamed, sliding over the delicate fabric of my dress, fingers tightening at my waist. I gasped when he pulled me even closer, his lips trailing along my jaw, down the column of my throat.

My heart is literally beating so hard right now.

“Hojun…we’re in the middle of the hallway. Someone might walk in.” I breathed, though there was no real protest in my voice.

Hojun didn’t reply to me back, instead, he reached to his bedroom’s door knob behind him and pulled me inside the dimmed room. Before I can even process my thoughts on what he’s going to do, he pressed me against the door, hands still gripping my waist and his lips ghosting over my neck.

“You look beautiful tonight, Jinnie.” Hojun murmured, his voice rough with restraint.

I still feel butterflies in my stomach when he's using that nickname.

I let out a soft, knowing hum, tilting my head slightly, letting my lips barely graze his. “You look good too, Hojun.”

Hojun’s next response was wordless as his lips crashed against mine, hungry and desperate, as if he had been holding back for far too long. I melted into his soft plump lips, my fingers threading through his hair, tugging just enough to make him groan against my mouth.

His hands slipped lower, hands playing over the hem of my dress before he gripped my thighs and lifted me in one swift motion. I gasped, wrapping my legs around his waist as he pressed me harder against the door, the heat between us was electric, consuming.

I could feel the solid press of his body against mine, the way his hands tightened around my thighs, the way his breath hitched when I rolled my hips just slightly. Hojun cursed under his breath, capturing my lips again, deepening the kiss and more desperate. He soon turned and carried me toward the bed, our mouths never parting, and our bodies moving as one. When his knees hit the edge, he lowered us down, my back sinking into the soft mattress as he hovered over me.

His lips never stopped. He kissed me again and again, as if he couldn’t get enough, his hands exploring, memorizing every curve, every inch of my body. He soon left my lips, trailing down my jaw, then lower, finding the sensitive spot just below my ear. He kissed there, slow and deliberate. I felt him smiling against my skin when I let out a sharp breath.

Hojun slowly pulled down the thin strap of my dress, exposing my collarbone and shoulder. I arched into him as his lips ghosted over my exposed skin. He took his time, pressing soft, lingering kisses along my collarbone and the delicate line of my shoulder. His hands traced down my arms, fingers skimming over my heated skin, making me tremble beneath him.

“Hojun…” I whispered, breathless.

“Jinnie…” he whispered back, his breath teasing me.

He hummed against my skin, his lips still exploring, his tongue flicking out to taste the warmth of my shoulder before he nipped at it lightly, making me gasp. My hands found their way into his hair, tugging him back up so I could kiss him again, deep and needy. Our bodies pressed together, heat radiating between us like a fire we couldn’t put out. There was only this moment where only me and him exist.

And then—loud sounds from the others echoed outside, it seems like they are amazed over something. Then followed by the sound of footsteps outside the door. Hojun tensed above me and I was holding my breath, a loud pulse hammering in my chest.

“Hey, has anyone seen Hojun? Haesoo has been looking for him.” The voice said from outside.

A questioning look flashed over my face when I just heard that. Why is Haesoo even looking for Hojun? And that made me think about Sunhee and Yoobin’s gossip earlier, that Haesoo is growing desperate for Hojun throughout this whole getaway.

I lightly pushed against Hojun’s chest and he quickly pulled away, rolling onto his side, his breathing still uneven.

“I think…we’ve been gone too long. The others might wonder why.” I whispered, running a hand through my tousled hair, trying to compose myself.

Hojun sat up, dragging a hand down his face, trying to shake off the haze of desire that still clung to him, “Yeah, we should…” He whispered.

We exchanged one last lingering glance, the heat still simmering between us, but the moment had already passed. Hojun slowly leaned in to me again and placed a soft kiss on my cheek, the kiss felt like an apology to me.

With a reluctant sigh, I smoothed out my dress, ran my fingers through my hair, “You’ll go first,” I said. “I’ll wait a few minutes after you leave.”

Hojun nodded as he stood up, straightening his clothes too and approached the door, before he left, he looked back at me again, “I’ll see you later at midnight.” He murmured.

I remembered that we will see each other by the lake later, “See you Hojun…” I replied.

The cheers that me and Hojun heard earlier is because of the bonfire that is lit up in the middle of the space here. It sent golden embers dancing into the cool night air, their fleeting glow disappearing into the dark sky scattered with stars. I found Taeha and the others again, relieved that they didn’t suspect anything of my absence earlier. I also spotted Hojun back with his circle too, acting like nothing happened between us. But this time, my eyes locked on Haesoo, who is also sending glances over Hojun’s direction, noticing that her friends are nudging her to go talk to him.

And to my surprise, she really did.

My gaze, sharp and unwavering, was fixed on them when Haesoo was now in front of Hojun. I had promised myself that I wouldn't let it bother me, but they still have history, which is more recent than what I have with him.

My brows furrowed when Haesoo said something to him that made Hojun smile a bit. My stomach coiled—I shouldn’t be surprised, they’re exes, and Hojun…had once loved her. I exhaled sharply, reverting my gaze to the bonfire. The flames swayed with the wind, throwing flickering shadows across the ground. The warmth felt suffocating now, pressing against my skin, making my pulse quicken.

“You look lonely.”

I flinched slightly, turning to see Taeha giving me a curious look. I forced a smile. “No, I’m not. I’m just…mesmerizing the bonfire.”

Taeha is still drinking a cocktail and his face looks flushed, making me giggle, “Your face is so red. How many drinks did you even consume?” I asked.

“Three? Oh no not three because Yoobin gave me another, maybe five?,” Taeha looked puzzled right now and he looked damn funny. After the heavy feeling I’ve felt earlier, he came to lift up my mood again.

“Oh god, I think you’re really drunk.” I giggled.

Taeha pouted, “I’m not drunk.”

“Yes, you are.” I poked his cheek, laughing at his current state. “You always act all cool and everything, but now you look like a big baby.”

Taeha groaned, covering his face with one hand. “Why am I friends with you again?”

“Well it’s your fault you were very approachable and kind when we were in college. My perfect prey for my whole college life.” I teased him and he scoffed at me.

Taeha leaned in close, his head tilting on the side, “Well, it’s your fault too that you radiate so much energy during college that helped me get through anything before.”

I was speechless at what he just said and my heart skipped a beat.

And I just realized just how little space separated us. Taeha’s usual sharp gaze, now softened by alcohol, locked onto mine, and the atmosphere shifted between us. I could feel the warmth radiating from his skin, could see the nervous flicker in his eyes that mirrored my own.

And then as if on cue, we both looked away, our faces exploded in shades of red.

“U-uh,” Taeha stammered, quickly looking away.

“W-we should, um, go and grab some water for you to be sober later.”

“Yeah, yeah, definitely,” Taeha nodded way too fast, running a hand through his hair.

But unlike his confident demeanor when he’s sober, he’s surprisingly so shy when he’s drunk. It’s like I took a time machine and is witnessing Taeha as a college student again. I peeked at him from the corner of my eye and couldn’t help but smirk.

“So, I helped you get through anything with my burst of energy in college?” I teased him again.

Taeha groaned, “Eunji…”

I just laughed at his cuteness, but I still can’t ignore how my heart raced earlier.

When we found our way to the bar and took a seat on the stools, the music earlier soon chimed a different mood wherein one of Dohyun’s friends took over as a DJ right now. Everyone cheered when he switched to an upbeat track that everybody knows and one of my favorites dance tracks ever—it’s ABBA’s Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!. The small crowd erupted into cheers. I closed my eyes, letting the melody flood my senses. My feet moved instinctively, my body swaying with the music, heart soaring as if I could bottle this feeling and keep it forever.

The thought hit me suddenly, a pang deep in my chest—would something like this happen again? All of us in this beautiful getaway are all adults, living our own lives to live comfortably, but this specific night brought us all back when we were younger and away from all the worries of the real world. I didn't want to think more about it, but it was there, lingering at the back of my mind like the last note of a song before the silence sets in.

The song built up to a drop, and when the beat hit, the entire group jumped in sync, their laughter mixing with the music. The lake glowed under the moonlight, reflecting the joy, the freedom, the now.

My eyes found Yoobin dancing her way towards our direction, pulling me in to join them in the crowd. Taeha chuckled and let me be stolen by them as I soon matched their energy. Everyone is so lost in the music. Yoobin, with her endless energy, grabbed my hands and twirled them both until we were breathless with laughter. Sunhee, who is already tipsy from the varieties of drinks she had, threw her arms in the air, spinning in a ridiculous, exaggerated move that sent everyone into hysterics.

This was limitless euphoria.

In the corner of my eye, I saw a familiar figure watching me from afar.

Hojun, tall and effortlessly handsome, leaned against the bar counter with that half-smirk he always wore when he was amused. His dark hair was tousled and his hands rested in the pockets of his jeans. His gaze was steady, observant, filled with something unreadable. And no sign of Haesoo around him anymore.

And just beside him is Taeha, arms crossed, a small smile playing on his lips. His brown eyes flickered in the lantern light, catching every move I made. He wasn’t just watching. He was seeing me here, living my best life through the beat of the music.

My heart gave a traitorous flutter.

They were both here. Both watching me. The feelings I had for both of them are still messing me up in different, tangled ways.

“Give me more energy Eunji!” Sunhee hollered as she showed me a cup of a drink I’m not aware of, then she made me drink the alcohol as it burned pleasantly in my throat. That felt like a big burst of energy as we moved to the music again.

And so it continued—shot after shot, mixed drinks I couldn’t even name, all handed to me with playful insistence. The music felt louder, the lights blurrier, my body lighter. Every step I took felt like floating, my laughter echoing through the crowd. At some point, reality started slipping away. My thoughts turned into fragments of the night—and then came darkness.

A dull throbbing in my head was the first thing I registered. The second was the unfamiliar weight of a blanket draped over my shoulders. Groaning, I blinked against the invading moonlight filtering through the curtains. Why are the curtains open? I always close them when it’s time to sleep.

Where am I?

Slowly, I turned my head, recognizing the familiar walls of the rooms in the cabin. Relief washed over me, but it was quickly replaced by confusion. How did I even get back here?

I sat up slowly wincing at the pounding inside my skull. My dress clung to my body, the faint scent of alcohol and sweat still present. I looked to my side and I was surprised that there’s Yoobin and Sunhee sleeping in one bed, cuddling together. I looked around the room and saw that I’m not in my own room, it’s their room.

I checked the clock on the bedside table and saw it’s 3 in the morning, and something crept into my mind. Hojun. We promised that we’ll see each other by the lake. I cursed under my breath and soon left the bed without making any loud sounds and entered the bathroom, washing my face and also gargling with the mouthwash I found in there. But the effect of the alcohol is still there.

I silently opened the door and soon left the room, making my way downstairs and outside the cabin. The aftermath of the party is still there, the bonfire is now extinguished and the moonlight is the only source of light in this breezy night. My feet dragged towards the lake, my heart leaped when I spotted Hojun, standing near the driftwood where we sat that night.

My heart suddenly dropped when I realized that he wasn’t alone.

A few feet away, a woman was clinging to him.

My breath hitched. Even in the dim lighting, I recognized her instantly—Haesoo.

Haesoo was holding onto his body, desperate, looking up into his eyes. She was saying something—I couldn’t hear exactly what—but the way her hands tightened around Hojun’s made my stomach churn.

I took a shaky step forward.

Hojun didn’t push Haesoo away.

He didn’t move closer either.

But that didn’t matter. Because to my drunken, hurt, and infuriated mind, that hesitation was enough.

Now, I just feel stupid. And something in me snapped.

Before either of them could notice me, I spun on my heel and walked away. Not a word. Not a sound. The cold wind bit on my skin, but I welcomed it. Better to be cold than to feel like this.

I ran back inside the cabin, wiping away the stray tears at my eyes furiously, hating myself for being this upset, for feeling betrayed, even though I knew something like this would happen.

And then—I collided with a firm chest.

“Oof—what the—”

Strong hands gripped my arms to steady me. I blinked up, still slightly dazed from the alcohol and the anger swirling inside me. “Taeha?”

He looked a bit sober now, compared to what I witnessed earlier. But the faint shade of red is still visible on his cheeks and his ears. “I’ve been looking for you. Where have you been?” His voice was laced with worry.

“Yoobin and Sunhee gave me so many drinks earlier…a-and they let me sleep in their room because they don’t know where my room is.” I explained, my voice still a bit slurring.

“Alright, you need to rest more. I swear you’ll have the worst headache in the morning.”

I let him guide me upstairs, his arm steadying me when my steps still wobbled a bit. By the time we reached our room, the alcohol had again settled deep into my system, making everything feel slower, heavier.

I kicked off my shoes the second we stepped inside and turned to face Taeha. “You always take care of me,” I murmured, tilting my head as I studied him through my heavy-lidded eyes.

Taeha chuckled softly. “Someone has to.”

His voice was warm, familiar, and for some reason, that only made me more frustrated with what I’m really feeling for Hojun minutes ago.

A rush of emotion crashed into me—anger, hurt, longing—all tangled into a mess I couldn’t untangle. And before I could second-guess herself, I grabbed Taeha by the collar and pulled him in. Our lips crashed together, and Taeha froze for a split second before groaning against my mouth. His hands found my waist, holding me like I might break, but I pressed closer, deepening the kiss. It was raw, fueled by alcohol and frustration, but the moment his lips moved against mine, it ignited something hotter.

Taeha’s grip tightened, his fingers digging into my hips as he backed me up against the nearest wall. His mouth was urgent, demanding, and I met him with equal hunger. A small moan escaped my lips as his hands skimmed under my dress and on the heated skin of my thigh, his touch sending a shiver down my spine.

I felt his hesitation for only a moment as he pulled back just enough to whisper, “Eunji, are you sure?”

But I didn’t want to stop. Not now. The alcohol made me this way.

“Shut up and kiss me,” I breathed.

And he did.

Our bodies tangled as we stumbled toward one of the beds—I don’t know which one—clothes becoming looser, touches more desperate. His lips left mine only to travel along my jaw, down the column of my throat, teeth scraping, tongue soothing. My fingers tightened in his hair as I let my head fall back, surrendering to the delicious sensation of his mouth marking a path across my skin.

His hands roamed, exploring, claiming every inch of skin he could reach. Those large hands slowly ran down my thighs and soon gripped my leg, setting himself between my legs as a faint moan passed my lips when his hips grazed onto mine.

With all my emotions mixing together and the effect of the alcohol running through my veins, something felt off. My responses slowed, my movements now less certain. I still had the tiny bit of energy to cup Taeha’s face, leaning in for another kiss, but then my body just automatically slumped slightly against him.

“Eunji?” I heard Taeha murmured through my blurry vision, brushing a strand of hair from my flushed face.

I blinked sluggishly, struggling to focus. “Mmm... ‘m fine,” I mumbled, though my words were slurred. My head rested on his neck, and a second later, my body went slack and soon passed out.

Eunji hid behind the large plant in this hallway, eavesdropping on the two.

“What are you doing for the break?” The girl asked Hojun.

Hojun scratched the back of his head, “I am playing with Eunji, you know her right?”

Eunji smiled on Hojun’s answer, knowing that he’s really a real friend to her.

“Oh…Eunji, the second grader?” The girl said, with a hint of sarcasm in her voice, “She’s cool, but you should come hang out with us this summer.”

“That sounds fun,” Hojun replied, and Eunji felt her heart shatter, “But can Eunji come along?”

Eunji bit her lip, trying not to make a sound because of how happy she is. Hojun is always making her feel like she belongs with the other kids, regardless of their gender and age, because the other kids are just too cruel when they suddenly have a new kid in their group.

“Alright, she can come along. I’ll see you guys tomorrow at the park.” The girl finally bid her goodbyes and left Hojun in the hallway.

Eunji scrambled her way out of the same hallway and pretended that she’s waiting on Hojun to the entrance of the school. Feeling excited for her new playmates for tomorrow. Eunji finally saw the dark haired boy she’s been waiting for as she crashed herself onto him, hugging him tightly.

“Oh Jinnie! Are you waiting for too long?” Hojun asked, smiling down on his longtime friend.

Eunji smiled over the nickname her friend gave to her as she shook her head, “Nope. I just left my classroom.” She replied, pushing herself away from their hug earlier.

The warm afternoon sun greeted them like an old friend. The air smelled of freshly cut grass, and the faint sound of birds chirping made everything feel magical. This summer seems like the best one so far because of how perfect the weather is. Eunji can already imagine herself, Hojun, and the other kids enjoying games under the summer sun.

“Race you back home!” Eunji challenged, already running away from Hojun.

“Oh you’re on!” Hojun called behind Eunji, running faster than he did before.

Eunji laughed loudly as she ran for her life, the wind whipped past her face. Hojun is also laughing along, trying to catch up with his best friend. The sun hung low in the sky, painting the world in warm shades of orange and gold. The air smelled of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass as Eunji and Hojun raced down the sidewalks that led to their neighborhood.

“You’re never gonna catch me!" Eunji shouted, her laughter trailing behind her like music in the wind.

Hojun, who is grinning wide, pumped his arms faster. "Oh yeah? Watch this!" His sneakers pounded the ground as he closed the gap between them. Eunji's pigtails bounced with every step, and her heart thudded joyfully in her chest. The world blurred around them—just trees, pretty flowers, and endless possibilities.

Hojun finally saw his house and threw himself on the soft grass of their front lawn, catching his breath. He heard Eunji’s pants getting closer and watched her lay down on the grass beside him. Their tired selves just enjoying the summer sun and watching the clouds pass by in the wind.

“That’s not fair, you have longer legs." Eunji gasped for breath as she let out a cough.

Hojun laughed, “It’s not my fault you’re slow Jinnie!"

“I’m not slow.” Eunji protested, glaring at her best friend.

Hojun’s mother heard the two bickering at each other in their front lawn, she soon stepped out of their house and chuckled upon seeing the two just laying on the grass and staring at the clouds.

“Did you just arrive, my darlings?” Hojun’s mother said, smiling warmly on the two.

Hojun sat up from the ground upon hearing his mother’s voice, “Yes mom! It’s finally summer break again! We will be playing with the other kids at the park tomorrow!” He exclaimed.

Hojun’s mother chuckled, “Alright, you’ll truly make the most out of this summer break again. Don’t forget to look after Eunji too.” She reminds him.

Eunji smiled over Hojun’s mother’s words as she tried not to blush that hard. She really can’t wait for tomorrow where she can meet new kids and new friends.

Hide and seek. It's a game that is frequently played by Eunji and Hojun. They usually just play at either of their homes, but this day, it's different. It will happen in the park. Their parents would constantly say that they shouldn't play hide and seek in the park, since there are woods behind that park. Eunji was scared of the stories about the woods, she heard there are countless ghosts wandering around that area and big insects that are half her size. Hojun, on the other hand, was intrigued by the big insects their parents were talking about.

Today, Eunji finally met Hojun's classmates and they are starting the game. Hojun was it.

The afternoon sun filtered through the tall trees, casting patches of golden light on the ground. Eunji brushed the stray hair away from her face, grinning nervously at Hojun's classmates walking ahead of her in these woods.

“Why do we have to hide back here?” Eunji sheepishly asked, walking slowly behind the older kids.

One of them looked back at her and shot her a scowl as they taunted her, “Why? You're scared?”

Eunji swallowed hard, her chest tightening and her hands balled up in fists. After all her scaredy cat moments about the woods, she decided today that she'll overcome this fear.

“No.” Eunji half lied, forcing herself to move forward from her spot.

The other kids soon told her hiding spot and said that spot is the best one. Eunji soon crouched behind a huge tree, heart still thumping loudly in her chest. She's really praying hard that Hojun would just come and find her throughout the game.

Minutes have passed, then what felt like hours.

Eunji is only hearing the wind rustling the branches and the fallen leaves on the ground. The shadows of the trees looked like an unknown abyss on the forest floor. Her breath quickened as fear crept in.

Eunji stood up and looked around the area, tears now prickling her eyes when he realized everything. They left her there. Alone.

“H-Hojun…come find me now.” Eunji cried, still looking around the space that filled her deepest fears. She can't take it anymore.

Eunji just crouched down again, hiding her face in her hands as she broke down in tears. The heartbreak that she went through with those kids because her intentions are so pure and she really wants to gain more friends. But why, why does this always happen to her, every time with Hojun's friends.

“Jinnie! Eunji!”

Eunji looked around her again when she suddenly heard her name being called. Then after a few minutes, she saw the familiar dark hair that surely belongs to her best friend.

“Hojun?” Her small, shaky voice answered back.

Hojun followed the sound of the shaky voice he just heard until he finally spotted Eunji crouched down and drowning in her tears. Hojun ran towards her and helped her up, then gave her a bone crushing hug.

“You found me,” Eunji sniffled, trying not to cry even harder in her best friend's arms.

“Don't worry Jinnie. I'm here now.” Hojun comforted her.

That same afternoon, Hojun lost some friends, but he's still as happy as before, because he'll never lose his only friend and the friend who is genuinely happy when they're together.

“I actually don't have anything in mind on what we'll be doing today.” Dohyun said while pacing back and forth in the living room. Me and Taeha are just watching him while we're sharing a bowl of nachos on this sunny afternoon.

I was beyond happy when I heard Dohyun say that. No more teamworks and misunderstandings, and I want more sleep, sleep, and yes, sleep. And just me basking in the sun while overlooking the beautiful lake.

“Maybe like…a lazy day perhaps?” I sneakily suggested. Taeha agreed with me too.

Dohyun shot us a knowing look, “Lazy day? No, that's not in my vocabulary for this summer getaway.” He said, crossing his arms.

I rolled my eyes, slouching my back on this couch we're lounging on, “Then what are you planning? It's already 3 in the afternoon, and the others are still sleeping.”

Dohyun thought of it thoroughly, returning in pacing back and forth in front of us again. He looked out at the lake and scanned towards the bar. A smile soon appeared on his lips.

“What do you think of an outdoor party? I got lots of booze in the bar and I can get more. I can put pretty lights outside and music.” Dohyun suggested.

An outdoor party would look perfect by the beautiful lake just as I imagined. I nudged Taeha beside me, “What do you think? I like outdoor parties, especially with a view like this.” I grinned.

Taeha nodded in response, “If you like it, then I like it.” He warmly smiled back.

Dohyun clapped his hands in excitement that made me and Taeha tear our eyes from each other. Our friend was so excited for the outdoor party later that he immediately called Hongchul for help. Dohyun already told the others about the party and they are scrambling to find their outfits and the others are offering to help him.

Me and Taeha went back to our room to find an outfit that is suitable for a party. I just found two summer dresses that I still didn’t use. I laid the dresses on my bed and began comparing the two. My arms crossed and face scrunched in frustration.

“You’ll look good in white.” Taeha suddenly spoke behind me. I looked at him and saw him gazing back at me.

A blush crept on my cheeks again and looked back on the white summer dress on my bed, my breath hitched when I felt Taeha’s presence close to me as he took the white dress from the bed and put it in front of my body—visualizing what I would look in that dress.

“Yeah, you’ll look beautiful.” He smiled.

“You think?” I nervously laughed, trying not to look too flustered in front of him again, “I would put on some of my jewelry.” I tried to dodge him again as I went to my bedside table, rummaging through my jewelry bag.

My eyes looked out of the window and something caught my attention.

It’s surely Hojun who made his way to the trail towards the falls we took days ago. He’s all alone and that makes me wonder why he’s going back to the falls. I kept thinking about yesterday, where me and Taeha were in the balcony, his eyes that time were haunting me and making me overthink everything about us again. I didn’t even have the chance to talk to him after that, since he kept avoiding me.

That made me think that I should talk to him now. And maybe finally open up about our past, if he still remembers.

I closed my jewelry bag and decided to follow Hojun, but I stopped in my tracks when Taeha wondered why I’m leaving. “Where are you going?” Taeha asked while he’s still rummaging through his clothes on what he’ll wear tonight.

“Um,” I stammered at first, but soon found my excuse, “I’ll just go by the lake. I saw Yoobin outside too.” I lied.

Taeha bought my excuse again as he nodded, “Okay, I’ll come along with you after I finish deciding my outfit.” He smiled at me.

My heart dropped when I felt like I have been lying too much to Taeha, and I think he also deserves an explanation about my past and feelings for Hojun. Soon. I smiled back at him and soon bid my goodbyes, my feet quickly dragged me downstairs and outside the cabin. I glanced at the trail where Hojun walked into and soon followed after.

The woods were thick with towering different trees as I remembered, their leaves a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold. Sunlight filtered through the branches, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor. I hesitated at the trailhead, wondering if I could walk through this path alone. But the thought of turning back left me feeling hollow. I had to know where Hojun was.

Minutes stretched into what felt like hours as I walked even deeper into the woods. My eyes kept looking around the tall trees and the thick bushes around them. The further I went, the quieter it became. The path narrowed, winding deeper into the woods, and the thick canopy above blocked out much of the sunlight. Shadows danced across the forest floor, twisting into shapes that made me think of that time again.

I just want to see Hojun, or I hope Hojun will find me.

A sudden crack echoed through the woods, and I froze in my spot, breath catching in my throat. My eyes darted around, searching for the source of the noise. Was it just a branch snapping under its own weight? Or was someone—or something—out there?

I remembered my seven-years old self again, where I was left alone by the other kids. Fear soon clawed at my chest, regretting why I entered the trail alone with this fear of mine. I crouched down and hugged my trembling frame, comforting and telling myself that I should overcome this.

Then, a familiar voice broke through the fear. "Eunji?"

My eyes flew open and saw them standing just a few feet away from me was Hojun, his expression a mix of confusion and concern. "What are you doing out here?" He asked, his voice low but steady.

I immediately stood up and patted the dirt out of my pants, “I…I was walking around.” I tried to lie, but my trembling voice is giving it away.

Hojun made his way closer to me and I just stood my ground, my breath hitched when he suddenly reached over my hair, realizing that there’s a leaf resting there. He’s quiet—too quiet, his eyes looking around but mine. The silence between us is making me feel those years of longing because of our lost time.

“You shouldn’t be alone out here, it’s dangerous.” Hojun said in concern, “We should head back—”

“No.” I suddenly blurted out, holding his hand to prevent him from leaving. Hojun was surprised by my sudden remark, probably wondering why I wanted him to stay. I took a deep breath and finally gathered the strength to finally open up to him.

“Eunji—”

“2002. 23 years ago, I felt lonely as a child because I had no one to share my wildest imaginations and activities that I dreamed of doing as a child. My mother would play with me sometimes but then would just leave me alone playing because she had to make dinner for us, my father on the other hand would also play with me but he’s busy with work. I just dream to have someone who would be my very first best friend. Springtime came and I met one kid…that changed my life.” I exhaled sharply, trying not to cry in front of him.

My eyes found Hojun’s and again was trapped into his gaze. My heart automatically raced as I stared into those eyes, those familiar brown depths that had once been the backdrop to countless childhood moments. But now, there was something different—something deeper. My chest tightened with a longing I had carried silently for far too long.

I broke out a laugh and wiped away the small tears forming around my eyes, “This is absurd.” I whispered to myself, “I’m sorry for suddenly being emotional, and um…you’re right, we should head out now.”

I turn myself away from him, regretting that I just said everything earlier. When I stared into his eyes earlier, I knew that I’m already one of his forgotten memories and I am tangled with the fear of rejection.

“Jinnie…”

My breath hitched. Again.

Jinnie.

The childhood nickname I hadn’t heard in over twenty years. A name bestowed upon me by none other than Lee Hojun—my one and only best friend when I was a little kid, during those endless playdates and my unforgettable puppy love.

I return my eyes to him, heart racing. The same eyes I stared into earlier were now sparkled with the same warmth I remembered back then. Memories surged to the surface—Hojun catching me from falling when I first met him, the unexpected playdates our fathers would plan because they wanted to hangout too, racing home from school, and everything that made our childhood the happiest. We had been inseparable once, two halves of a whole, until life pulled us in opposite directions.

In the very moment, fate has pulled us back together again.

“Hojun…” I sobbed, the weight of those lost years pressing down on me.

Without thinking, without hesitation, I closed the distance between us and wrapped my arms around him, holding on as if letting go would shatter me. Hojun’s arms came around me instantly, strong and reassuring. We fit together as seamlessly as we had all those years ago. I buried my face against his shoulder, breathing in the familiar scent of warmth and comfort.

“I thought you didn’t recognize me since the first time we saw each other again.” Hojun said and that made me suddenly pull away from our hug and slapped his bicep, causing him to wince and stare at me in confusion.

“Me?! I thought you were the one who didn't recognize me!,” I raised my voice and paced back and forth before him, “So all this time, we—”

Hojun let out a laugh, “God, we really are still stupid, just like when we were kids.” He said, his gaze still on my pouty self.

I can’t believe we were feeling the same way for five consecutive days.

“Then why didn’t you make a single move? Even on the night when we were all alone by the lake.” I complained again, crossing my arms together.

Hojun lets out a deep breath, “Because I thought you and Taeha are together and I don’t want to make suspicions and ruin this getaway for Dohyun.” He explained, his voice filled with gentleness

I rolled my eyes, “But I already mentioned that me and Taeha are just friends.” I pout at him again.

I heard him let out a playful chuckle and noticed him getting closer to me again, then I was surprised when he pinched my cheeks—but he’s gentle, unlike the ones he would do to me when we were kids. That gummy smile in full view, making my heart do somersaults.

“You’re still adorable, Jinnie.” He chuckled before pulling his hands away from my cheeks.

Our moment was ruined when I suddenly felt a drop of water that touched my forehead. Hojun was also confused and looked up at the sky, without any warning, the warm sun earlier turned into gray clouds and rain soon began to pour. With the summer rain and Hojun standing before me, all I could ever think about is our childhood memories when we would play in the rain, not even caring that we could get sick the following day.

We just let the rain fully drench us, then our eyes met again, causing us both to break into laughter. Reminiscing about our good old days.

“How I wish we were kids again.” I deeply sighed.

“I hope not though.”

I furrowed my brows at him, “Why not?”

I noticed his eyes are on me right now, “Because I don’t want to go back to the time that I left you.” His expression tightened, a hint of guilt flickering his eyes.

“But…you needed to leave that day. It’s for the sake of your father.” I said, fighting the lump rising in my throat.

Hojun looked down on the ground, my eyes fixated over the droplets of water from his drenched hair, “I should’ve done this back then…”

“Done what—”

The world seemed to pause, the rain fading into background noise. My eyes widened when Hojun suddenly closed the distance between us again, his hand cupping my cheek with a tenderness that spoke of longing and regret. My skin burned under his touch despite the rain drenching us both.

And then it happened.

Hojun’s lips found mine with a passion that spoke of every unsaid word and every missed opportunity that is filled with longing. I melted into him, my hands tangling in his wet hair and his hands wrapping around my waist as the rain poured down around us. Not only the rain drenching my face, but also there were tears that shed with the droplets of rain.

The rain was relentless, soaking through our clothes and chilling our skin, but we didn't care. We kissed as if the world depended on it, as if that moment was our redemption, our only chance to rewrite our story that we didn’t like how it first ended.

Me and Hojun finally broke apart, gasping for air, I rested my forehead against his. Laughter bubbled from my lips, pure and joyous.

“What do you mean that you want to do this? We were just kids back then.” I giggled, playfully hitting his pec.

Hojun bites down his lips, “Yeah, you have a point.” He chuckled.

His arms are still wrapped around my waist and our eyes are still gazing at each other, “We’re really drenched right now.” I giggled again.

“I think we should really head back now.” Hojun said, pulling away from my touch.

I nodded and sighed, “Yeah, we really should.”

While we were walking back to the cabin, with our hands tangled together, I also mentioned the outdoor party that will happen tonight and Hojun was excited, since it’s been a while for him to attend a party and enjoy some booze. We also planned on seeing each other in the middle of the night by the lake again and catching up with our lost time. The warmth of Hojun’s presence beside me again was enough to erase the shadows of doubt, making my heart flutter a million times.

My eyes flew open, and my heart skipped a beat. Standing a few feet away, hands tucked into the pockets of his hoodie, was Hojun. His dark hair was tousled by the breeze, and the faint glow of the moonlight highlighted his sharp features. My mind wanders off my memories of him being a kid, a cute kid playing with little me, then fast-forward to now, we both matured, our faces changed, and our relationship changed.

“Hojun, right?” I managed to steady my voice, pretending not to know his name in the first place, “What are you doing out here?”

“I'm about to ask you the same thing,” He shrugged, making his way closer to me, now he's standing beside me.

I tried to play it cool despite the sudden fluttering in my chest when he stood beside me, “The scenery of the lake really looks comforting, and I think the fresh air might help to sleep.” I replied while looking at the lake.

“Same thing.” Hojun agreed. I watch him take a seat on the large driftwood by the shore. He glanced back at me and saw his hand patting on the space next to him, inviting me to sit there.

Several thoughts ran in my head again before I could even process that he’s waiting there for me. I lowered myself onto the dock, the wood cool beneath my pajama pants. For a moment, me and Hojun sat in comfortable silence, listening to the gentle lapping of water against the shore. The night wrapped around us like a soft blanket.

“It really is peaceful.” Hojun said, breaking that deafening silence.

I feel very confused about this. I don't know if what I'm feeling is nostalgia or something more. I'm now thinking if I really miss him, this current him, or just the idea of who he was when I spent most of my time with him. Am I really holding onto memories or hoping to build something new?

I finally found myself smiling, feeling that strange sense of ease despite the unexpected interaction and my troubled mind. “Yeah, it is.” I agreed.

“You really did great in the volleyball game earlier.” Hojun chuckled.

I tried to hide my ashamed self, “Not without the massive help from the rest of the team. All of you are so good at playing volleyball.”

“Your boyfriend really did carry most of it.”

My eyes widened when I just heard that, “Boyfriend? You mean…Taeha?”

Hojun nodded his head, and all that I did was laugh and shake my head, “He's not my boyfriend. He's just a friend of mine.”

Hojun arched his eyebrow, “But why did you both look too close?” He asked, his voice in a teasing tone.

My brows furrowed together, “Aren't friends supposed to be close?” I countered.

I heard him chuckle under his breath again, “Yeah, friends are really supposed to be close.” He said, a hint of longing in his voice.

Is this the right time to ask him now? If he really knows me?

But I'm still tongue tied whenever I have to tell him about our past. I really don't know how to introduce myself or start explaining everything. Is he even having the same thoughts as mine? Or am I really erased in his memories already?

My train of thoughts stopped when Hojun suddenly stood up, “It's getting late. We should head back inside now.” He said, offering his hand to me.

With slight hesitation, I held his hand for the first time in years again. Thousands of butterflies erupted in the pit of my stomach. My eyes only glued on our hands lightly tied together. He helped me stand up from the driftwood and out of the lakeshore.

Then our hands pulled away again, but he left some of his warmth that's surprisingly filled with comfort. The night air was cool, tinged with the earthy scent of the trees and damp grass. Me and Hojun walked side by side along the winding path back toward the cabin, the sound of our footsteps muffled by the soft forest floor. When they reached the front steps, I was taken aback again when Hojun opened the door for me. I thanked him for that as we made our way upstairs. I stood in front of my bedroom door, stealing one last glance over at Hojun. I’m surprised that he’s still standing in front of his bedroom door, then soon found my gaze toward him.

“Goodnight,” Hojun murmured, his voice smooth in the silence of the night.

“Goodnight,” I replied with a brief smile.

Neither of us moved for a beat too long, the pause speaking volumes. Then, as if bound by an unspoken agreement, we turned away from each other, each stealing one last glance over our shoulder as we entered our own rooms.

The morning light crept through the windows of the room, soft and golden, warming my face. I blinked herself awake, but my mind was already elsewhere—back to the night by the lake, where everything had felt dreamlike. I finally shared a small yet unforgettable interaction with Hojun. I looked over at Taeha’s bed and I’m surprised that he’s there, reading a book from the bookshelf inside the room. I try not to break out a giggle upon seeing him so focused on the novel he’s reading.

“You look so invested in that book.” I sat up from my bed and tied my hair up in a bun.

Taeha was surprised upon hearing my voice, “You're up.” He smiled, “And yeah, I never thought I would like it.”

I watched him go back into reading again and I just made my way to the small balcony here inside our room. Taking in the beauty of nature and the fresh breeze. My eyes fixated on the shimmering surface of the lake and the people lounging by the shore. My heart starts to race when I reminisce about last night again and my lips curved into a smile. Maybe this is the start of something new again.

Clouded by my thoughts, I didn't realize Taeha had been calling me from the inside as I looked back at him, who was standing there with a concerned look on his face.

“I'm sorry…I was zoning out.” I apologized and entered the room once again.

Taeha took steps closer, “Are you sure you're okay? Are you still tired from the game yesterday?” He gently asked, my breath hitched when he suddenly tucked a piece of stray hair behind my ear.

“I’m…okay, I'm very much okay.” I stammered on my words, a faint blush appeared on my cheeks again.

Taeha softly smiled, “Alright, and by the way, Dohyun said that we'd just be doing painting activities today.”

My eyes gleamed in joy when I heard that we'll be painting today and Taeha knew that I love painting, judging by the excitement of what he said earlier.

“Finally, after the long walks and the dreadful volleyball game, I deserve this kind of activity.” I grinned.

I excused myself to change into some comfortable clothes for today. Taeha already made his way downstairs to greet the others, and when I finally left the room, my eyes darted over Hojun's door, which actually opened too, expecting his presence but then my smile faded—instead of Hojun, it was Haesoo who left his room.

I froze in my spot, my feet are literally rooted on the floor right now.

Haesoo glanced over and caught my frozen self. I'm surprised that Haesoo looked natural and so casual that she just came out of Hojun's room right now. There was no embarrassment or awkwardness in her—she just showed me that friendly smile and bowed to greet me before leaving the hallway.

Why do I feel betrayed? I'm not even that important in Hojun's life anymore.

I shake off my emotions before heading down the living room, finding the others socializing and having fun while doing their thing. I politely just greeted them and left the cabin with my head down. My heart stopped when I suddenly collided into something hard, or rather, someone.

I stumbled back, wide-eyed, but strong arms immediately steadied me. The loud thumping sound from my chest is the only thing I can hear until I looked up and met with those familiar eyes again.

It's him. Hojun.

“Are you okay?” He asked, his voice warm and steady. Making me think about last night again.

I pulled myself away from him, “I…um, yeah! I'm okay.” I stammered, my cheeks burning up again.

Silence took over us again, building that awkward atmosphere that's been going on since our first day here, “I heard we're doing some painting today. I'll see you later for the activities.” I excused myself.

I bowed my head down and started walking away, but then my feet stopped when I heard him say something behind me. Something that made me want to cry because of how long I've been wanting to hear it from him.

“Eunji.”

He finally said it. He said my name.

I turned around, trying not to let my tears escape my eyes, “Yes?” I put up a smile, showing that fake composure.

“Did you have a good sleep last night?”

I bit down my lip when it started to tremble and found myself staring down on the ground again. Then just gave him a small nod, “Yeah, I did. And I hope you did too.”

I can't stand my emotions right now as I immediately dismiss myself and walk away from Hojun, my feet dragging me towards the lake shore again. The soft lapping of the water touched my toes as I let out a deep sigh. Wiping off the stray tears that formed from the corners of my eyes. I looked up at the sky and just felt the warm breeze as it blankets me, comforting my worries.

My heart is screaming for joy when we finally got our own canvases for our painting activity today. The weather is perfect as we found our comfortable space here in the wide space between the lake and the cabin. Dohyun said that we should paint the beautiful view of the lake and it’s up to us if we will add more detail into the painting. Taeha is sitting beside me with his own canvas, and he’s been thinking deeply on what he will do with his painting.

“Just do a typical sunset vibe of the lake.” I said, laughing over his face because of how focused he looked right now.

Taeha scoffed, “You know that I’m not settling for less.” He smirked.

I let out a small laugh, “Of course you are.”

We both began painting now. Our eyes shifted from the lake and to the canvas as we tried our best to show the beauty of nature through the tip of our paintbrushes. I decided to paint not only the lake but also the cabin, with the orange hue from the sun embracing the sky. I was now in the perfect feeling while painting until I felt someone’s presence on my right. I looked and my eyes widened again, not even believing that it’s Hojun sitting beside me.

I watched him set up his canvas and then turned his gaze to me, “Mind if I join?” He asked.

“I…yeah, sure.” I stammer on my words again, looking away from embarrassment.

Hojun thanked me and started planning his painting. My eyes trailed over to Taeha, who is obviously glaring at Hojun, who is too busy sketching on his canvas. I reverted my attention to my painting again and took an intake of breath, calming myself of everything that is happening right now. These two men sitting between me are the ones who are making this summer getaway harder to enjoy, now they’re making it worse.

I just gathered up my strength and continued my painting, ignoring the fact that my hands were a bit shaky when I lifted the brush earlier. I was about to add more detail, I felt Hojun’s bicep brushing onto mine and noticed that he’s peeking on my painting. I scrambled around and tried to cover it—but it’s too late.

“Why are you even covering it? It’s pretty.” Hojun commented, and when he said that last compliment, his eyes found mine again.

I suddenly heard Taeha clear his throat to get our attention, “What about mine?”

I created a small space between me and Hojun again as I looked over at Taeha’s painting—it’s the lake in the early morning, where the trees are in the perfect green color and the sun is still rising. I see that Taeha made this because of his frequent early walks and I think it’s beautiful.

“It’s beautiful Taeha.” I smiled, “I love how you did the sunrise.”

Taeha had a victorious smile on his face as he looked over at Hojun, “Thank you Eunji.”

After that, there’s an awkward silence between us three right now. The undeniable tension between Taeha and Hojun is choking me, like it’s slowly torturing me on my spot.

“What do you think of adding gold on the sunrays?” Hojun suddenly asked, breaking the thick and torturing silence.

“I think that will be a bit flashy since Eunji’s painting is very subtle.” Taeha butted in, making my heart race on what is happening right now.

Hojun chuckled, “Subtle? I’m just saying that the painting needs more contrast, and with the help of the gold makes it more ethereal.”

I watched the two men squabble more about my painting, feeling a bit overwhelmed. I looked around to see the others already peering over to our direction, wondering why there’s a building debate happening right now. I get how Hojun comments about my art because he’s better than me in painting ever since we’re children, and Taeha is also gaining awards in college for those art contests in the campus.

“Okay, okay,” I held up my hands between them, “What if I’ll just do my own thing and you two stop trying to plan on every brushstroke? This debate is getting kinda petty.”

Taeha’s face tightened in frustration, “He started it.” His eyes are now on Hojun.

“I’m just trying to help. I’m just trying to make her painting stand-out from anybody else.” Hojun scoffed, arms now folded together.

Now the tension between them escalated again. Taeha shot Hojun a sharp look, while Hojun didn’t back down, just subtly glaring at Taeha. This is the first time I experienced this and I literally don’t know what to do.

“Forget about it. If this tension lasts longer, then I’m going to take my leave.” I said firmly and immediately left my seat, running inside the cabin and towards the balcony that is facing the trees.

I watched how the trees danced with the wind as the breeze swept over me as I stood here, my arms resting on the wooden railing. My chest felt heavy, weighed down by the emotions I couldn’t name, let alone share. I just needed air—space to breathe and think. It’s been four days since our first stay here and I didn’t expect that this would happen. Hojun and Taeha bickering? So freaking weird.

The soft creek of the balcony door broke my solitude. I glanced back, surprised to see Taeha stepping outside. His eyes were full of worry because of how I stepped out of that tension earlier.

“I’m sorry Eunji…for being too immature.” Taeha apologized, leaning against the railing beside me.

I shake my head at him, “It’s nobody’s fault. I just feel…overwhelmed about it. I just needed some air.” I forced a smile.

Silence took over us and only the gust of wind was heard between us. Taeha stepped away from the railing and he decided to let me be on this balcony, but then he stopped in his tracks.

 “That Hojun guy felt too comfortable with you. Is he really someone you know?” He asked.

Am I ready to tell Taeha everything? From those 20 years of constantly thinking about my childhood friend that miraculously came back in my life because of a summer getaway? My questionable feelings for Taeha is making my tongue tied. The thoughts tangled, looping into doubts that gnawed at my chest.

“I told you before, I didn’t know him. He’s just someone we know in this getaway.” I lied again, my heart thumping loudly in my chest.

As we stood here, a quiet comfort settling between me and Taeha again, I felt a strange prickling sensation—the feeling of being watched. My eyes found someone standing by one of the rooms, realizing that my eyes landed on him, on Hojun. I could see in his eyes that he eavesdropped something on our conversation and that made my heart sink. Before Taeha could catch him, Hojun already went inside his room.

But those eyes, I can’t forget it. His expression was unreadable, though his clenched jaw and the flicker of something sharp in his eyes spoke volumes. I hope I’m wrong in what I’m thinking.

“What the—” Eunji stopped complaining when she saw Taeha now sitting on the chair across from her, who is crossing his arms and glaring at her, “Heyyy Taeha.” She showed him a toothy smile.

“Is that even the look of someone who promised that they will study for the big quiz later?” Taeha sarcastically said, “Eunji, this quiz will be added in our final grade! This is a big thing!”

The other students inside the library now began shushing the two as they apologized and decided to take this conversation outside.

“I'm sorry! I'm just…I didn't get any sleep last night from writing our lesson plan for our final demonstration.” Eunji pouted, and she knows her pouting effect on Taeha.

Taeha sighed, “Fine, I understand. Now let's go study in the courtyard instead.”

Eunji grinned happily when he forgave her careless actions again as they made their way to the courtyard, finding a place on the benches. Taeha gave her the notes he has that truly helped Eunji since it's already summarized, no need to understand all those paragraphs in the textbooks.

This person a.k.a Eunji's guardian angel through her whole college life is Kang Taeha. They've known each other ever since they're both freshmens when they were making a project that involves doing instructional materials. He was so persistent and hard-working to be an honor student and he did it, per semester he was always on the dean's list and receiving awards. Eunji, as a supportive friend, was always there, applauding for him and cheering him on.

Then all the cheering stopped when Taeha caught feelings for one of their classmates and Eunji saw everything blossomed into something new—Taeha got himself a girlfriend in their third year.

Lim Daeun is literally one of the kindest girls in their class and actually a rare one, because Eunji hated the others. Except for Daeun. Daeun began interacting with Eunji and Taeha when she approached them if they wanted her to be one of their group mates for their thesis. Constructing a thesis requires working together all day long and even hanging out on each of our homes for us to continue working.

During those days, Eunji noticed Taeha and Daeun had been really close and she understood because Taeha is literally such a friendly person and Daeun is the same. And when they finally finished presenting their thesis to the panel, they both came clean and confessed to Eunji that they're dating.

“That fast? It's only been a month and a half since we were grouped together for the thesis.” Eunji tried not to overreact and offend their feelings.

“Oh you know, we don't know how love goes. Right babe?” Daeun hooked her arms on Taeha's arm as she stared up at him, all lovesick and everything.

'Babe? I'm really allergic to pet names', Eunji said in her head.

After that confession, Taeha and Eunji's dynamic duo halted for a while since she wanted to respect the couple's space and not make herself an awkward third wheel. When they finally finished their thesis, the three celebrated in joy that they will be college seniors for the next semester. Eunji's world stopped when she looked over to her side to see Daeun pulling down Taeha's necktie, giving him a passionate kiss.

Eunji became silent when she witnessed this moment. There's this weird feeling, and this time, Eunji couldn't shake it off. All the thoughts are now running in her head, asking herself over and over that why does her heart make her feel the truth? The truth that she never wants to say to Taeha.

Eunji turned speechless and just forced herself to speak, “I…um, I've got to go, my parents decided to celebrate with me.” Eunji sheepishly said to the two.

Taeha pulled away from the sudden kiss when he heard Eunji say that. “Wait, but you said yesterday that you're free of plans and we three could celebrate.” Taeha obviously pleaded with his friend.

Eunji put up a smile as she shook her head, “I thought so too, but my father suddenly called me over for a special dinner. I don't want to miss the food he specially made for me.”

But the thing is, Eunji was the one who made the call first to her parents and that she wants to celebrate with them—not with Taeha and Daeun.

“But Eunji—” Taeha pleaded again, but Eunji stopped him.

“You guys go ahead with your date or whatsoever, I’ll get going. Have a great day and thank you for the hard work for our thesis!” Eunji bid her goodbyes as she took her things and began walking away from the two. With her back exposed to the two, she took an intake of breath, feeling that heavy thing in her heart.

After that day, Taeha noticed Eunji became distant. Although she still interacts with him and Daeun, it's not like her usual self. Eunji can still have lunch with them but soon excuses herself first to go to the library. And the thing that Taeha felt betrayed for is that he saw Eunji studying with Baek Minho, one of the class’ dean’s list too, and he’s sharing his notes with her, like he always did to Eunji. That’s the reason why Eunji always has to go to the library to meet with her new study friend.

A day came when Daeun didn’t attend her classes because she and her family had a family gathering, so that day, it’s just Taeha following around Eunji. And when he saw her come out of her class, he approached her.

Eunji noticed her friend walking towards her, “Oh Taeha, what’s up?” She smiled at him. Taeha had mixed emotions when he saw Eunji again. A human heart can’t lie that he feels so comfortable with her—more comfortable than he is with Daeun.

“I…have to talk to you about something.” Taeha said and soon held Eunji’s hand, leading her to the courtyard and to the place where they usually study. Eunji was shocked by the hand holding as she pulled her hand away from him.

“Are you nuts?! Stop holding my hand! You have a girlfriend Taeha, and I don’t want some rumors going around that can ruin my reputation.” Eunji reminded him and Taeha just let out a small laugh, making her look so baffled in front of him.

“Relax, I’m just here to ask one thing,” Eunji turned red when Taeha suddenly leaned in close, “Is Baek Minho better than me?” He whispered in her air, sending chills down her spine.

Taeha pulled away, seeing Eunji as red as a tomato in front of him and was clearly speechless.

“What do you mean?” Eunji cleared her throat and tried not to look too flustered again.

Taeha furrowed his brow, “I literally saw you two in the library last week and he’s giving you his notes.” He crossed his arms.

Eunji looked at him in confusion and also crossed her arms, “And what about it? He offered his notes to me and I’m really grateful about it.” She responded.

“You’ve should’ve asked for mine—”

“Are you for real, Kang Taeha?”

There. Taeha was silenced when he heard his full name from Eunji, and he knows that this is getting serious.

“I’m not going to ask yours anymore since I think Daeun needs your notes more than me,” Eunji literally shade Daeun, since his little girlfriend is not showing good scores on their quizzes lately, “And news flash, you’re not my only friend that I can rely on in this wide campus. So please, Taeha, go and help Daeun. I’m fine on my own.”

Taeha was silent the whole time Eunji spoke for herself. That made Taeha realize that all of this happened because of him—him catching feelings for Daeun and him creating that distance between the only close friend he had in his whole college life.

Eunji’s phone chimed as she looked over the message she received, “Our final exams are upcoming next week and I have to go study now.”

Taeha watched Eunji walk away from him, probably go study with Minho again. He couldn't help but curse under his breath and went back to his dorm room, trying to forget what just happened.

“Daeun, we have to study.” Taeha choked out his moans, trying not to melt with Daeun’s soft peppering kisses that she’s planting on his neck, her hands roamed his chest and continued down his clothed crotch.

Asking Daeun over to study in his dorm is not a good idea, especially when she’s this kind of girl.

“We already studied for an hour.” Daeun pulled away and pouted at her boyfriend, then soon set herself between his legs, “We still have time later.” She bit her lip, reaching down Taeha’s pants—but he stopped her.

Daeun looked up at him in confusion, “Why babe? Are you uncomfortable? Should we stop?”

It’s true what Eunji said, Daeun needs to study really hard after what she did in her midterms, if she still would get those scores for her finals, she would retake her lacking subjects again. But Lim Daeun is getting too hard-headed these days.

“Daeun, you have to pass your finals with a higher score than your midterms. Please.” Taeha pleaded, gripping her hands in his. But from the reaction he saw from Daeun, he knows that she’s getting pissed.

Daeun stood up and put on her jacket, giving Taeha the silent treatment. Taeha stood up from his bed, trying to get her attention, “Hey, where are you going?” He asked, holding her hand to keep her from leaving his dorm.

“Taeha, we’re both young adults and why can’t you live life a little? Maybe free yourself from the shackles of college life and studying. College is about living, experiencing things, making memories. And I want to build those kinds of memories with you.” Daeun sincerely said, tears now pooling around her eyes.

Taeha pulled Daeun in a warm hug, comforting her. He pondered on her words and that’s where he knew that they were not compatible. Daeun is a fun soul that Taeha genuinely enjoyed for months, but with them approaching their final year in college, Taeha wants to focus and graduate without ruining the grades he worked hard for.

“Daeun, I’m so sorry, but this is important to me. I can’t just drop everything and follow every whim. I want to make something of my life, and I need to focus on that.” Taeha cupped her cheeks while he said that to her.

“Taeha…” Daeun sobbed. Taeha looked at her, really looked at her—the way her hair fell in loose waves around her face, the way her eyes shone with unshed tears, the way she radiated a kind of energy he’d always admired but could never match.

“I’m so sorry.” Taeha said it again, his words heavy with resignation.

Daeun wiped away her tears as she laughed bitterly, “You know, I thought we could balance each other out. Maybe your seriousness and my spontaneity could work together. But maybe we’re just… too different.”

“Maybe…” Taeha's voice only came out as a whisper.

Daeun sweetly smiled as she cupped Taeha's cheek, “I guess this is it, then.”

Taeha put his hand on hers resting on his cheek, “I’ll always care about you Daeun.” He assured her.

“I know, and I'll always care about you too.” Daeun said, intertwining their hands together before she finally let go.

And with that, Daeun took a step back from Taeha and gave him one last look before she walked out of his dorm. Taeha sighed deeply and sat on his bed again. The breakup seemed…mutual? But he still felt that hole in his heart. He really loved Daeun, but this is not the right time for them.

Three days have passed since the breakup between Taeha and Daeun. He still didn't interact much with Eunji, they were just seeing each other in their classes and Taeha would just go and study by himself. He still didn't know how he could tell Eunji that he and Daeun had already split up.

After an hour of just staring at his notes, he finally manages to decide that he'll tell Eunji today. He just has to find her around the campus again. The first thing that came into mind is the library.

He ran down the hallway towards the library and looked around the silent aisles of different books. He immediately went to her usual spot near the window, and there she was, sleeping with her notes sprawled around the table where she's resting her head on. Taeha chuckled when he saw her hand still holding onto the pen.

Taeha carefully sat on the chair beside her and also rested his head on the table, blankly staring at Eunji's sleeping frame. The soft strands of her hair falling messily over her face. His eyes trailed down her lips that were slightly parted as she breathed steady and soft.

There's suddenly a sudden pang he felt in his chest, hitting him with realization that he's been looking at Eunji like this, that yearning that Taeha couldn't even notice in himself. Eunji isn't just a girl that he met in his freshman year, she's not just a girl who's always his partner in projects, and a study buddy. Somewhere along those moments, she had become more than that.

Eunji's flicker of movement pulled him from his thoughts as panic surged through Taeha. Taking a book from his bag as he pretended to read through it. Eunji is now slowly opening her eyes, adjusting from the lights inside the library.

She glanced beside her to see her friend sitting there, “Taeha? How long have you been there?” Eunji asked while stretching out her arms.

“I just got here,” Taeha lied, “I didn't want to wake you up, you're sleeping so soundly.”

Eunji was shocked, “Oh my god, did I snore again?” She asked in horror.

Taeha chuckled and shook his head. Endearment embraced Taeha again when he finally saw Eunji's one of a kind reaction again.

“Why are you here? Where's Daeun?” Eunji questioned.

Taeha scratched the back of his head, “Actually…me and Daeun…broke up.” He said hesitantly.

Eunji almost had her eyes almost jump out of her eye sockets when she heard those words come out of her friend's mouth. After four months of witnessing their blossoming relationship, she didn't know that the break-up would be so sudden—too sudden.

“What the hell? What happened? What did you do?” Eunji now bombarded him with questions.

Taeha shrugged, “We're…incompatible, I guess.”

Eunji can't believe it, “Incompatible my ass, you and Daeun are literally the cutest couple I’ve seen in the campus. And that kiss after we passed the thesis? Straight out of a Korean drama.” Eunji said, her voice full of enthusiasm.

Taeha tried not to laugh loudly over Eunji’s reaction, “I have to tell you something, but come closer.”

Eunji dragged her chair close to Taeha, and couldn't wait to hear what Taeha wanted to secretly tell.

“She tried to blow me while we were studying for the finals and didn’t like that I stopped her from doing it.” Taeha whispered to Eunji, “So that’s why we had this huge misunderstanding that led to us splitting up.”

Taeha pulled away from Eunji and saw her reaction: her eyes wide open and jaw nearly on the ground.

“Do you want some insects entering that damn mouth—” Taeha reached out to her chin but Eunji deflected him by holding his hand.

“She tried to—” Eunji’s voice came out loud as she clamped her mouth closed, then continued talking through whispers, “She tried to blow you? I didn’t know Daeun was that kind of a girl.”

Taeha’s visible smirk made Eunji blush like crazy in front of him, “Don’t tell me it already happened.”

“We were together for four months.” Taeha chuckled and Eunji covered her blushing face as she tried not to squeal inside this silent library.

“You fucking minx!,” Eunji whisper-yelled her words while she swat her hand on Taeha’s bicep, “I thought college is all about just books and grades. You’re a lot ahead of me right now.”

Taeha’s brows curled up, “Isn’t a minx exclusively used for women—and what do you mean I’m ahead of you? Are you doing something stupid?”

“Me and Minho are a thing now too.” Eunji sheepishly smiled at Taeha when she finally confessed the secret she’s been hiding.

Taeha was flabbergasted, and now he’s the one that has his jaw on the ground. He suddenly felt something within his chest that he didn’t know how to explain. Taeha can’t even make a word out of his mouth right now, he’s really surprised.

“It only happened last week. And when I tell you, he’s the cutest ever. When he confessed to me, he gave me that strawberry shake I love and a music playlist. A playlist where I can only listen to. I’ve never felt something like this.” Her voice softened, almost dreamy, as she recounted the adorable moments she had with Minho.

Eunji’s enthusiasm was infectious, her smile radiant as she swooned over every little thing Minho did. Taeha just sat there, nodding at the right moments, offering small words of agreement, but his chest tightened with every word. He tried to focus on her happiness, but a gnawing ache is really tugging at his heart.

They sat in silence for a moment, the sounds of campus life buzzing around them. Students silently talking to each other and the sound of book pages being turned.

“You okay?” Eunji asked suddenly, her brows knitting together in concern, “Are you still not fine after the breakup?”

Taeha shook his head in disagreement, “No, it’s just—”

“Do you want me to treat you to some ice cream?” Eunji grinned at her friend, waiting for him to say yes.

Taeha gave her a soft smile, “Sure, let’s go and grab some ice cream.” He offered out his hand and Eunji gladly took it. They went to the usual place where they got some ice cream.

When they are now eating their ice cream and lounging peacefully in the courtyard. The two didn't know they both went through the same thing, which is experiencing that familiar emotion that they can't express. All that they can paint inside their heads is that they'll be friends for a long time and that they don't want to lose each other.

The third day of the summer getaway started when I woke up with the harmonic sound of the birds and my annoying phone alarm that was set at 7:30 in the morning. I sat up on my bed and glanced over at Taeha's bed that is already neatly made. That early bird is really making the most out of this trip. He really is a boy scout, like he mentioned before.

I stood up from my bed after a couple minutes and left the room, didn't even bother to change from my pajamas. I went to the kitchen and made myself a cup of coffee, my mind just clouding up and eyes staring blankly on the window where I can see the lake outside.

“Good morning!”

I slightly jumped when Dohyun greeted me from behind as he held my shoulders. In exchange, I slapped his arm too.

“Dohyun! You already know that I get scared easily!” I complained and heard him snickering but he apologized afterwards.

Dohyun also made himself a cup of coffee and stood here beside me too, the both of us just enjoying the beautiful scenery of the lake through the window.

“How are you liking the getaway so far?” Dohyun suddenly asks, then sips on his coffee cup.

“I love the nature walk yesterday, even though I tripped over some branch, the waterfalls made me feel so much better.” I responded, still thinking about yesterday. Hojun catching me from falling and Taeha getting drenched in the shallow water. I looked down on the ground to calm myself and not get flustered again by those two men.

Dohyun warmly smiled, “Everyone loved the nature walk too, since most of them are their first time to see a waterfall.”

“Count me in on that, that's why I don't even want to leave that place yesterday.” I chuckled, finishing off my coffee.

“You can still visit the falls, the trail is just easy to find.” Dohyun encourages.

I shook my head, never imagining myself being alone in the middle of the woods. I would die in hyperventilation because of my sudden panic attacks.

“If only I got someone with me, I'm down. I'm not good at being alone in the woods.” I said to Dohyun, who was a bit surprised.

Dohyun was about to ask what happened, but our conversation was cut short when Taeha entered the kitchen, who was just about to get some water, and was surprised to see us both lounging here too.

“Good morning guys,” Taeha greeted, soon turning his face to me, “Did you have a good sleep?”

“Yeah, I did.” I nodded at him, “What are you up to today?” I look at Dohyun again.

Dohyun smiled, “We'll be playing volleyball.”

My eyes widened when I heard him say that, “Noooo, not volleyball.” I hid my face in my hands.

Taeha is trying to hide his laugh on my reaction and Dohyun is a bit confused why I'm in disbelief when we are going to play volleyball today.

“Why? Did something happen before that is connected to volleyball?” Dohyun genuinely asked, his voice with a hint of concern.

Taeha soon spoke up, “We played volleyball in the school we both work on, it's for the teacher's sports festival and we picked to play that sport out of fun, and during the game, the ball landed so hard on Eunji's forehead that it marked for two weeks—”

“—hey! It's just a week!,” I interrupted Taeha, “That mark traumatized the hell out of me.”

I turn my gaze to Dohyun, who is actually trying not to laugh over the backstory. I hit his bicep again and watch him wince in pain, making me smirk in delight.

“But you still have to play though, it's against the rules you'll turn down an activity in this getaway.” Dohyun has a mischievous smirk on his face as he starts to walk away from the kitchen.

“Since when did we have rules?!” I asked him.

Dohyun looked back at me again, “Since today.” He snickered a laugh at me before exiting the cabin and joining the others outside.

The bright sun beat down the green grass on this large space between the cabin and the lake. The net is now ready to be played for volleyball and I'm going to die in anxiety.

Dohyun gathered everyone for us to split into two teams. We just have to pick into the jar he showed earlier, and if we have the same color, we'll be on the same team. As simple as that.

We fell in line to the jar that Dohyun was holding, and when it's my turn, I glared at Dohyun who was still smirking playfully at me and then I walked away. I looked at the color I picked and it was blue.

“Blue?! Eunji, you're blue!”

My heart did somersaults when I heard Taeha's voice slowly approaching. I celebrate inside when I see the paper inside his hand is blue. I'm now very safe that Taeha is one of my teammates.

“Oh thank God you're one of my teammates. Now where's the rest of the team?” I hooked my arm over Taeha's arm and looked around to find the blue papers. Meeting the other teammates is making me smile in relief that they all know how to play.

My smile soon faded when I saw Hojun now picking from the jar and found out that he will be playing in the same team as mine. I noticed him looking around and soon found our circle, now making his way towards our direction.

“Blue team right? Best of luck to all of us.” Hojun said to the team, motivating us for the upcoming game. I suddenly saw him stare down at me and on my arm hooked around Taeha's arm. I immediately unhooked our arms and stood there awkwardly.

Wait, why am I feeling guilty about it?

I huffed out a breath in annoyance and tried to calm myself down. When Dohyun finally said that we should finally set our positions for the game, we all entered the court and talked about the rotation. A sudden wave of anxiety hit me right now but I just try to forget everything.

The game finally started with a toss coin, our team bet on heads and watched the coin as it landed on heads, making our team the first one to serve the ball. Hojun is the first one to serve and he did it effortlessly—he really looked like a professional player when he served the ball.

The opposing team successfully received the ball and now it came to a rally. Hojun is the powerhouse in our team and Taeha is assisting on each of his moves. Watching the two work together is literally making my heart race so much.

Meanwhile I'm here, in the corner, waiting for the ball to come at me. I look so pathetic.

Taeha set the ball at the perfect time and watched Hojun leap, spiking it over the net with immense power making the opposing team lose the ball. We got a point!

Taeha, who is already drenched in sweat, turned his face to me then shot me a wink before focusing on the game again. How can I even focus on the damn game if he's doing all that?

The opposing team is now the one to serve, and Yoobin is in charge of it. We kept our eyes on the ball that will be crossing the net again, all of my team members are making sure that we won't lose and I'm still stuck in the same position I've been in since the start of the game.

With the intense heat of the sun, the game is getting intense too. Then my eyes darted over to Taeha, who is suddenly taking his top off, revealing the abs that he’s been working on for the past few months.

“That’s cheating!” Yoobin complained, making all of us laugh in unison. Yoobin served the ball and it went out the court, our team roaring in victory for gaining another point.

The game went on and we still had the lead. During the game, the ball sometimes went in my direction, but Taeha or the other members saved me from the approaching ball. I also tried to hit the ball myself but I’m always messing up and missing some points. Now, we called a time out as we went to drink some water.

“You’re really trying back there.” Taeha chuckled, teasing me because of how pathetic I am while playing earlier.

I drank some water and glared at Taeha, “I am trying,” I huffed in annoyance, “Trying not to die.”

I suddenly felt Hojun’s presence beside me as he drank on his water tumbler too, then he turned his gaze to me, “It's a nice effort.” He commented, referring to my volleyball incompetence.

I tried to hide my blushing cheeks by snorting a laugh, “Don’t patronize me now.” I said to Hojun and he hid his smile by looking down on the ground.

This is literally the longest conversation I have with Hojun since we first arrived here.

I was just about to make this conversation longer but Dohyun called to continue the game again. We did a team cheer before entering the court again. I looked over at the scoreboard, my eyes widened because both teams had the same score by now. I thought we were still leading.

Only a point away where both teams will be tasting the final victory.

Unfortunately, I’m the one who will serve the ball.

I took a deep breath when they gave the ball to me, I focused on the ball then on the net. I kept thinking that we should win this game and I won’t be a sore loser anymore. I will be overcoming my fear and turning down my incompetence. I finally hit the ball with all my might, watching it perfectly cross the net and to the opposing team.

“That’s it!” Taeha cheered and I happily entered the game when the opposing team received the ball. The ball went to a rally again, the intense screams coming out of our mouths, just for that one point.

I saw the ball fast approaching my direction, but Taeha or Hojun is too far away from where I’m standing right now and there’s no other choice but to receive this ball by myself. I set myself and hope for the best.

Smack!

To my surprise, I perfectly hit the ball towards Hojun, who successfully set the ball, and Taeha assisted him with a strong spike, making the opposing team panic and miss the ball. Finally calling victory to our team.

“You did it! You didn't let the ball hit your head!” Taeha ran towards me as we jumped around. The other members of the team are also celebrating—including Hojun.

“I can't believe I did it!” I screamed for joy.

I turn to my right to see Hojun clapping for me and I've never felt so much happiness seeing him smile at me like that again, like the smile when he was a kid when he shows how proud he is. That's the same smile.

“Good game, and you actually did it.” Hojun complimented.

My heart stopped when I heard that from him. I can't help but smile happily at him and nod my head in agreement on what he said.

“Yeah, it was a good game. We really make a great team.” I grinned.

Taeha is awkwardly standing between us and I notice him glancing at me then at Hojun. I can see his facial expressions full of unspoken thoughts. Taeha then cleared his throat, gaining attention from me and Hojun.

“We should go inside the cabin now, it's warm here already.” Taeha suggested and we all agreed, now making our way inside.

Through my peripheral vision, Taeha followed behind, keeping a distance between me and Hojun. Why is he acting like this? He's acting weird.

Then I felt his touch on my lower back, guiding me to the staircase, “You don't have to guide me like that.” I told Taeha.

“It's okay, I just want to do that.” Taeha said and he entered the room first. I'm still standing in this hallway, my mind clouded by those two men I happen to have mixed feelings with.

Goosebumps ran down my body when I saw Hojun walking down this hallway and stood in front of his room. I saw him look over at me and gave me that empty yet alluring gaze before entering inside his room.

I rested my back against the wall of the hallway and took deep breaths. It's only been three days and this getaway felt like those over dramatic reality tv where there will be drama, love, and so much expectations.

Just four days to go, I will survive this week.

“Eunji, come here for a second.” Her mother beckoned her over and the little girl obeyed, slowly walking towards her while wearing the chaotic looking jacket because she accidentally put the wrong buttonholes.

“But the cherry blossoms.” Her eyes slowly filled with tears.

“I'm just going to fix your jacket, and then we'll go see the cherry blossoms.” Her mother calmed her down while buttoning her jacket right and then planted a kiss on her forehead.

The child's eyes gleamed in joy when she heard the words that came from her caring mother's mouth. Eunji was the happiest that day.

Just then the door opened, those familiar footsteps from their leather dress shoes made Eunji turn around with the largest smile on her face. She fled off her mother's hold and ran towards them.

“Daddy!” She screamed and threw herself towards her father who just got off early from work since he promised to have dinner with the family tonight.

“My angel!” Her father exclaimed, dropping his things on the floor and carrying his daughter in his welcoming arms, “Why are you wearing that thick jacket indoors?”

“She wanted to see the cherry blossoms, maybe we'll go to the park for a bit while you rest and then I'll prepare the dinner after—”

Eunji's father shook his head to his wife, “—don’t worry, I'll take her to the park and we'll buy some ice cream for our dessert later.” He winked at her and took his jacket.

Eunji's mother giggled, “Alright, have fun you two.”

Eunji and her father soon left the house. Eunji was skipping happily while walking towards the nearby park, singing children songs that talked about spring, even dancing to it. Her father loved Eunji's bright personality and he hopes she'll stay that way until she gets old.

“Daddy, look at me! I'm walking backwards!” Eunji practiced this—walking backwards, thinking it's an amazing skill. She can't wait to let her classmates see how she does it.

Her father chuckled, “You're doing great, but watch out for some—”

A happy laugh came from a distance and his father saw a kid running out of their house, unaware that he and Eunji, who is confidently walking backwards, will bump into each other.

“Eunji, wait!—”

Well, it's too late.

But little Eunji didn't fall on the ground.

The little boy caught her. His tiny arms hooked under her armpits.

“Oh god, are you both okay?!” Eunji's father checked on both children, checking if there were wounds. But to his surprise, no bruises or wounds.

He took Eunji in his arms and turn his attention to the boy, “I'm so sorry kid, are you—”

“What's happening here?”

A grown man's voice came between the scene and guessed it was the little boy's father. Eunji's father turned to look at the man and his eyes widened.

“Lee Jinhwang?!” Eunji's father exclaimed, not believing his eyes on who he's meeting right now, just a few minutes from his house.

Jinhwang furrowed his brows and soon recognized his friend all the way back in high school.

“Kim Youngchul?! Is that you?!” Jinhwang screamed.

“In the very flesh!”

The two grown men reunited with the warmest hug that they haven't done with years they've lost in their friendship. Back in the 80s, Lee Jinhwang and Kim Youngchul were those duo who looked like delinquents but actually excelled so high on their studies.

“Oh! Meet my daughter Eunji!” Youngchul showed little Eunji to Jinhwang, “Angel, say hello to uncle Youngchul!”

Little Eunji shyly waves her hand to Jinhwang while she's gripping on her father's pants.

“Hello Eunji! I'm uncle Jinhwang, your father's friend!,” Jinhwang waved back, “And meet my little boy too! Hojun, come here!”

The little boy from earlier walks towards his father and bow down to Eunji and her father, “Hello.” Hojun greeted them.

“Your son actually caught Eunji from falling earlier, so I'm thanking this little man here.” Youngchul showed his fist, asking the little kid for a fistbump, which Hojun gladly did.

“Really? Hojun, you did good, my boy.” Jinhwang patted his son's head and pulled him closer.

Eunji had been staring at Hojun, wondering if they would be friends. She remembers from her classmates that having a boy as a friend is weird, but Eunji thinks Hojun is not weird…because he helped her earlier.

“Are you perhaps living in this neighborhood too?” Jinhwang asked.

Youngchul nodded his head, “Yeah, we've been living here for five years, just two months after Eunji was born.”

Jinhwang was flabbergasted, “We just moved here this morning, god…I can't believe we're now neighbors! Isn't this fate?” He laughed.

“It really is fate, my friend. I'm really happy to see you again,” Youngchul patted his friend's shoulder, “But for now, we'll take our leave because my daughter wants to see the cherry blossoms in the park.”

“Oh sure! Have a great time,” Jinhwang bid his goodbye but he suddenly thought of something, “Actually, you and your family should come over tomorrow for dinner at our house.”

“Of course, we'll be there. Right, Eunji?” Youngchul lightly pinched Eunji's cheek.

Eunji nodded her head.

“Say your goodbyes to uncle Jinhwang and Hojun now.” Her father said.

Eunji bowed her head to Jinhwang and waved goodbye to Hojun, who also shyly waved goodbye.

“Why are you so late, Hojun?”

My discreet stare kept locking in on Hojun, who is being asked by Dohyun. They were sitting on the other table, where Choi Haesoo is earlier.

“I attended a virtual meeting with some executives back in Australia to let them give me some letter of recommendation for my new work here.” Hojun answered.

My heart skipped a beat again to hear how professional and stoic he's speaking. Like a computer. My eyes found Haesoo, still quiet and probably full of thoughts that's been bothering her—and I feel the same. She's just trying so hard to hide by talking to the others in that table.

“She's shaking so much.”

“What? Me?—oh um, who?” I suddenly blurted out those words in a slightly loud tone, feeling like I was caught from staring at Hojun.

Yoobin was surprised by my sudden reaction, “What are you rambling about?” she questioned.

“Oh, it's nothing…it's uh…I think I'm getting tired.” I pretend to yawn and stretch out my arms.

Goosebumps embraced my body when Taeha suddenly cupped my jaw as he observed my face, “You should get more rest, I noticed your eye bags getting worse.”

His face is so close—too close.

I can totally feel Yoobin's interested stare between me and Taeha, of course I defended myself, “I know that look Yoobin.”

“What look?” Yoobin innocently said, “But come on, you and Taeha looked good together. I thought you two were really together when I first saw you in the shuttle.”

I look over to Taeha who is flustered right now, “I…uh—” He stammered.

“—no way, he's just my friend. A very good friend.” I cut him off his words. I stood up from my seat and excused myself.

“Eunji, where are you going?” Dohyun asked when I walked past their table. I stopped my tracks as I lay my eyes on Hojun, who is sitting across Dohyun.

“I'm going back to my room, I feel kinda tired. I'm excited for the nature walk tomorrow though. See you all in the morning.” I explained to my friend and at the same time, hoping that Hojun would recognize me.

But he didn't even add something in the brief conversation, not even a hello, or how have you been?

We really are strangers. But I really accept these consequences between our history since it's been two whole decades that we last saw each other.

“I'll excuse myself now, have fun for the rest of the evening.” I bowed my head down and strolled back inside the cabin. Soon I found myself running upstairs and into our room.

I lean my back against the door, hands clutching my chest as I hear my heart thumping loudly. I have to stop feeling like this, he's just my childhood friend—only a friend!

I threw myself on my bed and curled into a ball with the thick duvet, “But why am I so affected that he's not noticing me? We didn't even have a proper past! We were only kids!” I argued with myself, trying to vent out everything.

I kind of want to tell my father that I met Hojun again, but if I tell him, maybe he'll tell uncle Jinhwang?

“That's not a good idea. I'm not gonna tell my parents about this.” I shook my head and then calmed myself down.

The door suddenly opens to see Taeha, upon the look on his face, I can tell he’s worried. I also noticed the two mugs in his hand that are steaming hot.

“Eunji? Are you still not feeling well?” Taeha asked, sitting down on the edge of my bed then gave me one of the mugs—it was hot chocolate.

My heart swells that he always remembers that I drink hot chocolate whenever I’m not feeling well.

“Not anymore,” I chuckled when I sipped on the hot chocolate he made, “Thank you for the hot chocolate. This comforts me so much.”

Taeha warmly smiled and also took a sip on his own mug, “By the way, I noticed that…your face looked so puzzled when that friend of Dohyun came. Is he perhaps…familiar to you?” He curiously asked.

I stopped indulging in my hot chocolate when he suddenly asked that, but I tried my very best to show off my poker face behind the emotions I’m experiencing right now, “No, I thought he’s someone I used to know…but I was wrong.” I lied.

“Alright,” Taeha nodded his head. I was relieved that he believed my lie. I’m still not ready to tell him about Hojun and how I feel about him, “Dohyun said that the nature walk tomorrow starts at 7 in the morning, so I suggest we'll take a shower tonight for us to have more time to get ready tomorrow.”

“Okay, I’ll just finish this hot chocolate and then I’ll take a bath.” I agreed on Taeha and continued drinking.

I hope I can sleep peacefully after what I’ve felt tonight.

What did I expect? Of course I slept perfectly.

The bed is the most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept on and since my body is still getting more sleep from work, I automatically passed out after I took a bath last night. The hot chocolate also helped put me to sleep. When I woke up, I glanced over Taeha's bed to see it’s already empty. Panic rushed through my veins and instantly took my phone on the bedside table, only seeing the time is still 5:30 am

I became at ease when I realized that I’m not late for the nature walk, but instead confused about where Taeha is in the early morning. My questions were answered when the door opened, revealing Taeha who was wearing a compression tank top and spandex shorts. Sweat glistened over his face as he took off his wireless earphones.

Taeha noticed that I’m already awake, “Good morning, did you sleep well?” He asked.

I was about to respond to him but I turned speechless when he lift up his tank top for him to wipe away the sweat on his face, showing his chiseled torso and the hint of body hair leading down to his—

What am I even thinking?! 

My face turned red again as I looked away from him, pretending that I’m looking at the window and enjoying the view, “I..uh, yeah, I did sleep well. How about you?”

“I did too and took a stroll earlier to see the sunrise and workout too. This place is so soothing. No loud cars and pollution like we always see in our apartment.” Taeha replied.

I should’ve got up early too to see the sunrise. I imagine it to be so beautiful with the scenery of the lake. I stood up from my bed and looked out the window. Seeing the large trees and lake made me feel that excitement for the nature walk and Dohyun mentioned that there’s a nearby falls and that’s where we’re going.

“You should get ready for the nature walk now.” Shiver ran down my spine when I felt Taeha’s low voice behind me. I turned around to see him striding close to me, trapping me against the window. A mischievous smile painting over his lips.

“T-Taeha, why are you—”

He leaned in closer again and I just closed my eyes, expecting if something happened…but there was nothing.

“My bag is behind you, I'll have to get my towel.” He said.

I immediately opened my eyes and felt that stupidness on what I've been thinking about, “Y-you should've told me in the first place.” I stammered and returned to my bed. Still shocked at what just happened.

Taeha took his towel and clothes to change, “I'll shower for a bit. You should also get some insect repellent, there's a lot of mosquitoes outside.” He said and then entered the bathroom.

I took my pillow and shoved my face right onto it, screaming on the soft pillow, venting out on how stupid I was earlier. It's still our second day here and it's staring off so bad.

These mixed signals from Taeha and Lee Hojun coming into my life again.

I removed the pillow from my face, “I'm going to survive this damn week. Just five days left and everything will be going back to normal again.” I said to myself and stood up from my bed, getting my stuff ready for the nature walk.

“Good morning everyone! Is everyone ready for the nature walk?”

Dohyun is again sending us some energy and motivation to go on a nature walk this morning. Some were excited and some were not a bunch of morning people. Well, I'm in the middle of it all.

The sun hung up in the sky beautifully today, its rays dancing over the water of the lake. The air is warm and thick with the scent of trees. All twelve of us soon began walking towards the trail and up to a ridge where we could see the falls.

The dirt path is a bit soft beneath our shoes and leaves that fell cracking on each step. I can also hear the sound of the birds chirping, making a beautiful symphony that is being accompanied by our chatter as we continue walking.

Others are now snapping some pictures, pausing to take a picture of the view or some tiny details like the sun rays peeking through the canopy of leaves and a butterfly resting on a flower.

“This feels so comforting. And I feel like I went back to my childhood days where me and my parents used to go camping. My father loved nature walks.” I smiled as I reminisced about those simple but happy times.

“That's nice, you seem to be the happiest kid.” Taeha responded, also smiling over my tiny personal story.

My eyes found Hojun walking just a few steps ahead of us and who was surprisingly talking to Haesoo.

And they were…smiling.

“Yeah, I was.” I said with a smile, thinking about how Hojun also made my childhood happy.

It's already been an hour since we started walking towards the falls and Dohyun announced that in only a few minutes we will be surprised by nature's beauty. Me and Taeha kept the random stories about each other going.

I tried walking backwards again, explaining to Taeha that when I was five, I thought this was a rare skill. Making us both laugh.

“That's so cute, but really? Nobody in your classmates knows how to walk backwards?” Taeha can't believe it.

“Yeah! When they do it, they fall back.” I chuckled.

“Five year old you surely gained a lot of confidence when—”

Taeha's response was cut off when my feet suddenly hit a large protruding tree root on the ground, and since I'm walking backwards, I knew I'll meet the dirty ground already.

My eyes were closed, waiting for that solid ground, but nothing happened. Instead, I felt strong arms hooked under my armpits, catching me from falling. This feels so deja Vu.

My breath hitched when I decided to look up who caught me from falling—it was him. Lee Hojun.

Words are not even processing in my brain right now. All I'm feeling is his arms, those steady, firm but gentle arms sending a jolt to me stronger than the adrenaline I've felt from nearly falling.

Our eyes finally meet and then hear him say his first words to me after 20 years, “Are you okay?” Hojun asked.

Everything is now processing inside my head again as I immediately stood my ground and fixed myself. I only managed a shaky nod as a response to him, my words lost somewhere between embarrassment or that overwhelming feeling.

“Eunji,” I heard Taeha behind me and immediately checked if I had bruises or cuts, “Oh thank God you don't have cuts.”

Hojun suddenly spoke between me and Taeha, “Look over your girlfriend next time, getting cuts in these woods would lead to infection.” He said before walking away again.

Fuck, he really don't know me anymore. I'm even sure he heard my name from Taeha earlier, but didn't that ring a bell for him? He even called me Taeha's girlfriend!

“Come on, the others are now way ahead of us.” Taeha held my hand as we continued walking, pretending as if nothing just happened.

Of course that interaction between me and Hojun was nothing for Taeha, but to me, after those years without interaction made me feel something. It's even like the first time we met when we were kids.

After several minutes of walking, we finally heard the sound of rushing water from a distance. Me and Taeha grew our excitement as we ran towards where the sound was. My heart quickened when we finally saw it—the falls.

It's cascading down the rugged rocks and down with its silvery stream glistening in the light of the sun. Mist is dancing in the air, sending a cooling breeze on my skin. We took a step closer, resting on the rocks that surrounded the water. I decided to take my shoes and socks off as I stepped into the shallow water, feeling the cold water from the falls engulfing my feet, sending chills down my spine.

“This place is like a huge painting, I just want to stay here forever.” I said, wading a bit deeper and my feet splashing playfully at the water’s surface.

Taeha chuckled, “Yeah, it really is.”

I watched Taeha also take off his shoes and socks, wanting to join me from wading in the shallow water, but then something unexpected happened. I was shocked when Taeha let out an undignified yelp as he landed on his backside in the shallow water, sending a splash towards me and in another direction. For a second, only silence was heard between us but then I couldn't help but burst into laughter, doubling over the tears that welled in my eyes.

“Taeha! Oh god what happened to you?” I gasped between my fit of giggles, “Are you okay?”

Taeha, who is now soaking wet and blushing like crazy, tried to laugh it off as he still sat there in the cold water, “I actually meant to do that, for me to hear you laugh.” He said with a crooked grin.

I finally recovered from laughing as I reached out my hand to him, helping him up, “Yeah right, I definitely saw that moss-covered part of the rocks and you actually stepped on it earlier.”

Taeha gasped, “And you didn’t tell me?” That face shows how betrayed he was.

I giggled, “You’re such a dork.” I said warmly, eyes sparkling in amusement.

“Yeah yeah you got me. Now let’s dry ourselves off. I think the others are now also getting ready to leave.” Taeha said, setting himself up on the dry rocks again. He hoists me up with him as we dry ourselves, but I’m still stifling a laugh over his drenched clothes, the scene replaying in my mind again.

Then my eyes caught Hojun’s direction again, who was also having fun with the others. He still has that adorable gummy smile when he was a kid. All of those memories of us as children are now hidden away from him and I think I should really accept it. I have to remind myself that time changes and people change. Those little moments she’d cherished are now rendered meaningless, swept away from the passage of time.

My train of thoughts were interrupted when Taeha offered his hand to me again, “Come on Eunji, let’s go.”

Now that Taeha has been the greatest friend I’ve had, I think this is now the change that’s been offered to me. A new person that will be sharing a lot more memories than I had with Hojun. Life had moved on and I think so had I, finding something far better than her distant memories: a new friendship now rooted in the present, hoping that it’s finally steady and true.