Chereads / The hidden hour / Chapter 2 - Chapter 2 : WHEN TIME ECHOES

Chapter 2 - Chapter 2 : WHEN TIME ECHOES

Scene started from the school park where it was ended.

Eunho's eyes widened as Ji-Hyun said, "And that's Jihoon, my brother."

"Your brother?" Eunho repeated, confusion etched on her face.

Ji-Hyun nodded, smiling.

Eunho's mind reeled. Jihoon, Ji-Hyun's brother? She felt disoriented.

"Which...which year is this?" Eunho asked again, her voice barely above a whisper.she just wanted to confirm.

Sooyoung burst into laughter. "Oh, it's 2016! I know you're going to say you're from the future!"why are you asking such dumb questions again and again

Ji-Hyun and Dan-Oh joined in, their laughter filling the air.

Eunho's face remained frozen, her thoughts swirling. Time travel? Heaven? Had she truly died?

"Guys, stop teasing her," Ji-Hyun said, still chuckling.

Eunho forced a smile, but her mind raced. What was happening? Why was she here?

Here's the revised scene:

Eunho trailed behind Ji-Hyun, Sooyoung, and Dan-Oh, her mind still reeling.

As they entered the cafeteria, Eunho spotted Tae-Oh.

She rushed toward him, enthusiasm etched on her face.

"Hi, Tae-Oh!" she exclaimed.

Tae-Oh glanced up, his piercing gaze sweeping over her.

Then, he dismissed her, returning to his phone.

Eunho's smile faltered.

"Hi," she repeated, trying to grab his attention.

Tae-Oh sighed.

"Can I help you?" he asked curtly, not looking up.

Eunho's face flushed.

"I-I just wanted to say hi," she stammered.

Tae-Oh's expression remained unyielding.

He spoke up and anger if you need my attention you are not gonna get it it's really hard you little girl,move and leave me alone I am busy with my work,I will give you my autograph!you needed it right.

Eun-ho got angered ohh really you are a such a loser to me,who says I am your fan,oh can't believe how can someone stan a person who is bad like a devil.

Tae-oh yelled at her watch your mouth you girl!!

Suddenly a guy appear and said tae-oh that enough it's really disappointed from you tae-oh.

Eunho felt a sting from his rejection.

Ji-Hyun and Sooyoung exchanged concerned glances.

"Tae-Oh's always like that," Ji-Hyun whispered.

Eunho nodded, masking her hurt.

She couldn't understand why Tae-Oh's dismissal affected her.

Was it because she knew him from...somewhere?

Or was it the harsh reality of 2016?

Eunho, Ji-Hyun, Sooyoung, and Dan-Oh settled into chairs in the cafeteria, slurping ramen from the food shop.

"Ji-Hyun's brother is so handsome," Sooyoung cooed.

Eunho nodded, her thoughts drifting to Jihoon's piercing gaze.

"I know, right?" Ji-Hyun grinned. "But he's also super annoying.

As they chatted, Eunho couldn't help but steal glances at Tae-Oh, sitting across the room.

Why was he being so cold? Was there something she didn't know?

Just then, Ji-Hyun's phone buzzed.

She smiled mischievously. "Oh, it's my beloved brother."

Eunho's curiosity piqued.

"What does he want?" Sooyoung asked.

Ji-Hyun replied it was my mom who called from jihoon phones and told me to invite my friends to his birthday party.

Ji-Hyun turned to Eunho. "I'm bringing you, Sooyoung, and Dan-Oh to Jihoon's party."

Eunho's eyes sparkled. "Really? Why?"

Ji-Hyun smirked. "My family is loaded. Our parties are legendary."

Sooyoung's eyes widened. "No kidding! I've heard rumors."

Dan-Oh grinned. "Rich kids know how to throw parties."

Ji-Hyun nodded. "Exactly. And Jihoon wants me to invite my closer friends there."

Eunho's mind whirled. What did Jihoon really look like in person

"Is this a charity event or something?" Dan-oh asked.

Ji-Hyun chuckled. "Nope. Just a fancy birthday bash."

The group chattered excitedly, envisioning luxury and glamour.

As they left the cafeteria, Eunho wondered:

What secrets lay behind Jihoon's lavish lifestyle?

Eunho burst into the classroom, dramatic flair evident in her entrance.

"OH, I MISSED THIS PLACE SO MUCH!" she exclaimed, arms spread wide.

Her classmates stared, shocked by her sudden outburst.

Sooyoung and Dan-Oh exchanged worried glances.

"What's gotten into her?" Sooyoung whispered.

Eunho zigzagged through the room, doling out bizarre predictions.

"Sunghjun! Oh my god, you're so handsome now, but in the future, you'll lose all your hair!" She burst into laughter.

Sunghjun's face turned bright red.

Next, Eunho approached bookworm Jiyeon.

"Jiyeon, you're such a nerd now, but trust me, you'll blossom into a stunning beauty!"

Jiyeon's eyes widened.

Eunho continued her prophetic spree, leaving a trail of confusion and giggles.

When the bell rang, signaling the start of class, eunho settled into her seat.

Mr. Kim walked in, writing on the blackboard.

Eunho shouted, "OMG, MR. KIM, AS ALWAYS, YOU'RE SO HANDSOME! BUT IN THE FUTURE, YOUR WIFE WILL MAKE YOU HER PERSONAL Errand BOY!"

The class erupted into laughter.

Sooyoung and Dan-Oh covered their mouths, trying to stifle their giggles.

"WHAT'S WRONG WITH HER?" Ji-Hyun whispered.

Mr. Kim's smile seemed forced. "Eunho, could you please step outside ,you are disturbing the class.Here's the continuation:

Mr. Kim's expression turned stern. "Eunho, I think you need to take a break. Please step outside the class."

Eunho's grin faltered, but she didn't seem surprised.

"Okay, Mr. Kim. I'll go."

As she left, the class whispered among themselves.

"What's wrong with her?"

"Did she lose her mind?"

Ji-Hyun and Sooyoung exchanged worried glances.

Dan-Oh leaned in. "This isn't like Eunho. Something's off."

Outside, Eunho walked down the empty hallway, her footsteps echoing.

Suddenly, she stopped and giggled.

"What's happening to me?"

She looked around, taking in the familiar school surroundings.

I really missed my this life it's really fun all remember how I always get bad grades and when I get out of the class my friends followed me their

And suddenly 3 girl come and stand with her outside of the class

when she looked it was her friends and eunho grins then dan oh speak "do you really think that you will enjoy your punishment alone" they all laughed.

The final school bell rang, signaling departure time. Students flooded the hallways, eager to start their after-school routines.

Eunho beamed, walking alongside Ji-Hyun and Sooyoung.

"Best day ever! I don't want it to end," Eunho exclaimed.

As they parted ways, Eunho waved enthusiastically.

"Bye, guys! See you tomorrow!"

On her walk home, Eunho noticed familiar landmarks.

"Hey, there's the ice cream shop where mom bought me a cones!

She skipped toward the shop, grinning.

"And there's the park where we had our school picnic!"

Eunho twirled, feeling carefree.

As she passed a salon, she spotted a stylish young auntie.

"Aunty, you look stunning! So young and beautiful!" Eunho gushed.

The auntie blushed, smiling.

In her mind, Eunho thought, But in the future, you'll lose your glow...

Eunho's expression changed from admiration to amusement.

She burst into laughter.

"Bye, Aunty! Stay beautiful... for now!"

The auntie's face turned bright red.

Eunho sprinted toward her home, excitement building.

She get to her apartment she runs to her floor and see her flat and then she opened the door saw her mom.momm you are so beautiful I missed you I love you very much then her mom speak what happened sweety,how was your day today

She replied it was good,but.....but where is eun-mi,And her mom replied there she is and a little girl come out from room yawning mom,unnie I want to poop and eun-ho shouted omg eun-mi you.....you are so smelly

Scene shifted to her room and was lying on her bed and thinking my sister is now 8 years old and I am 17/18 years old but why is my sister so cute.

Eunho lay on her bed, lost in thought, when her phone buzzed.

Ji-Hyun's message flashed on the screen.

"Hey, Eunho! Jihoon's party starts at 7 pm. You coming?"

Eunho sat up with a jolt.

"Oh yeah! I totally forgot!"

She leapt off her bed and rushed to her closet.

"Which dress should I wear?"

Scanning her outfits, Eunho's face fell.

"Ugh, none of these are good enough!"

She rummaged through her clothes, growing frustrated.

"Why don't I have anything nice?"

Suddenly, Eunho burst into tears.

"All my good dresses... I bought when I was 20..."

Her sobs mixed with laughter.

"How ridiculous am I? Crying over dresses!"

Eunho wiped away tears, remembering something.

"Bing bong lottery! How could I forget?"

She rushed to her dresser, pulling out a small, forgotten drawer.

Eunho's eyes sparkled.

"This is it! My lucky dress!"

She held the dress against herself, admiring the fit.

"Perfect! Now, let's get ready to dazzle Jihoon's party!"

Eunho arrived at the party, turning heads in her stunning red bodycon dress. Every guy's eyes locked onto her, mesmerized.

She waved enthusiastically at Ji-Hyun, Dan-Oh, and Sooyoung, who looked equally breathtaking.

The friends exchanged compliments, admiring each other's outfits.

"Wow, Eunho, you're glowing!"

"Thanks, Ji-Hyun! You look stunning yourself!"

As they took their seats in the grand hall, Eunho whispered.

"Can you believe this setup? It's insane!"

Dan-Oh nodded. "I heard it cost $500 million!"

Sooyoung's eyes widened. "What? That's unfathomable!"

Ji-Hyun smiled sheepishly. "Yeah, Jihoon's family spares no expense."

Just then, the lights dimmed, and Jihoon stepped onto the stage.

Eunho's heart skipped a beat.

He was even more handsome under the spotlight.

As Jihoon began to speak, Eunho's eyes welled up with tears.

Jihoon's voice brought her back to the present.

"Welcome, everyone! Tonight, let's celebrate life, love, and friendship!"

Eunho's tears fell freely now.

He was alive.

Alive and vibrant, contrary to her visions.

Jihoon sliced into the magnificent cake, sparking applause from the crowd.

Every girl's eyes adored him, their gazes filled with longing.

Eunho rolled her eyes good-naturedly, smiling at Dan-Oh.

Huh! Dan-oh are you fine

"Want some water? You look pale."

Dan-Oh nodded weakly. "Thanks, Eunho."

As Eunho made her way to the refreshments, she collided with someone.

"Oh, I'm so sorry, sir!"

The person turned, revealing Tae-Oh, Jihoon's best friend.

Eunho's apologetic smile faltered.

"Tae-Oh? What are you doing here?"

Tae-Oh raised an eyebrow.

"Same question,Why are you always getting in my way?"

Eunho's eyes flashed.

"I'm not intentionally trying to bump into you, Tae-Oh."

Tae-Oh smirked.

"Sure seems like it. You're always around, Eunho."

Eunho bristled.

"What's your problem, Tae-Oh?"

You are such a anti-fan,"do you think you will seduce me,all girls try to act like this"tae-oh smirk

"Never mind. Just stay out of my way."

Eunho huffed.

"Fine. I'll try."

As Tae-Oh walked away, Eunho wondered.

What's Tae-Oh's issue?why is he like this but on reunion party he was so caring to me.

Ahhh!!whatever he is just jerk.he is really getting on my nerves and making me angry.

Jihoon stormed away from the party, seeking solitude. The grand hall's opulence felt suffocating.

He pushed open the changing room door, ready to shed his formal attire.

"Jihoon."

A soft voice whispered his name.

Jihoon spun around, surprised.

Eunho stood before him, her eyes brimming with tears.

Without warning, she flung her arms around him.

Jihoon's tension eased, replaced by confusion.

The silence was palpable as Eunho clung to him.

Jihoon's hands hovered, unsure how to react.

Finally, he gently pulled her back.

"Who are you?" Jihoon asked, his voice laced with uncertainty.

Eunho's face crumpled.

Tears streamed down her cheeks.

"Y-you don't recognize me?" Eunho stammered.

Eunho's voice cracked.

"You... you don't remember me?"

Jihoon's expression turned cold.

"Omg, are you my fan? Please get away from here."

Eunho's eyes widened, pain flashing across her face.

"You... you don't know me?" she whispered.

Jihoon's gaze faltered, unsure.

"No, I... I don't."

Eunho's voice trembled.

"I am the girl you loved."

The words hung in the air.

Time seemed to freeze.

The party noises, the music, everything ceased.

Eunho stood before Jihoon, her eyes locked onto his frozen face.

Time had stopped for everyone else, but Eunho's heart still beat.

She felt the air, heavy with unspoken words.

Jihoon's expression, paused in confusion, seemed almost vulnerable.

Eunho's gaze wandered to his lips, slightly parted.

Her fingers twitched, longing to touch him.

"Why did you forget me?" she whispered.

Only silence replied.

Eunho's eyes dropped to the ring on Jihoon's finger.

"It seems familiar" Eunho spoke up.

Eunho's determination surged.

She had to make Jihoon remember.

"I am the girl you—" she began.

Time froze once more.

But this time, Eunho's words were stuck in her throat.

She tried to speak, but her voice was silenced.

As if an invisible force prevented her from uttering those words.

Eunho's eyes widened in realization.

She couldn't say it.

The words that could change everything.

Jihoon's face darkened.

"This is the worst birthday ever."

He turned to leave, dismissing the frozen scene.

Eunho's heart sank.

No, don't go!

She tried to speak, but her voice remained trapped.

Time remained still, mocking her.

Jihoon's departure would shatter her hopes.

Eunho's desperation turned to despair.

Why was fate cruel?

Why couldn't she reach him?

As Jihoon walked away, Eunho's vision blurred.

Tears streamed down her face.

Time's silence was deafening.

Suddenly, Jihoon's footsteps halted.

He turned back, gaze locked onto Eunho.

For a moment, their eyes met.

Eunho's heart skipped a beat.

As Jihoon turned and left, the time freeze released its grip on Eunho.

She collapsed to the floor, tears streaming down her face.

The partygoers, still frozen, seemed like statues around her.

Eunho's chest heaved with sobs.

Why couldn't she reach him?

Why did fate keep them apart?

As she wept, Eunho's gaze fell on Jihoon's discarded birthday cake.

The once-vibrant decorations now seemed mocking.

Eunho's thoughts swirled.

What could she do?

How could she make Jihoon know about her?

Here's the continuation:

Eunho's mind whirled with questions.

What just happened?

Why did time freeze?

And why couldn't Jihoon remember?

Does he even know me?

As she pondered, a low, mysterious voice whispered in her ear.

"Do you think you'll save us like this?"

Eunho's heart skipped a beat.

Who spoke?

She spun around, but Dan-Oh was busy cleaning up the party mess.

No one seemed to notice the voice.

"...you are here to change everything."

The words echoed in Eunho's mind.

Change everything?

What did it mean?

Eunho's curiosity turned to determination.

She had to uncover the truth.

About the time freezes.

About Jihoon's past.

About her own destiny.

"Who are you?" Eunho whispered aloud.

The voice remained silent.

But Eunho felt an unseen presence.

Then she got pissed and leaves everything and was on her way to home

Am I really on earth! Or it's a parallel universe

Sooyoung tell me that tae-oh and jihoon loves me and here they don't even know me.

Thinking about she get to her home and reach into her room.

Eunho submerged herself in the warm bath, letting out a sigh of relief.

The party's chaos and Jihoon's forgotten past swirled in her mind.

She closed her eyes, allowing the water to soothe her tense muscles.

"What's happening to me?" she whispered.

The voice's words echoed.

"Do you think you'll save us like this... you are here to change everything."

Eunho's thoughts danced.

Was it just her imagination?

Or something more?

After the bath, Eunho wrapped herself in a plush towel and settled into bed.

As she lay down, her gaze drifted to the window.

The moon cast an ethereal glow.

Eunho's eyelids drooped.

"It's just a dream," she murmured.

"A dream within a dream."

She had read about such concepts.

Lucid dreaming.

Parallel universes.

Was she trapped in one?

Eunho's voice barely above a whisper.

"If I sleep, I'll never wake up... not here."

Not in this reality.

Not with Jihoon.

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.

"I wish I could wake up... here."

In this world, where Jihoon existed.

Where their love story unfolded.

Eunho's fingers intertwined.

A desperate prayer.

As she drifted off to sleep, Eunho's mind whispered.

"Let me stay... let me wake up... here."

The room faded into darkness.

Morning sunlight streamed through the window.

Eunho's eyes fluttered open.

Her room was... different.

The furniture, the walls, everything was changed.

Eunho's heart sank.

"No... no... no..."

Tears burst forth.

"I knew it... I knew this would happen."

She sobbed uncontrollably.

Her world, shattered.

Her reality, altered.

Eunho's thoughts swirled.

Was she still in the dream?

Or had she awakened to a new reality?

She remembered her desperate prayer.

"Let me stay... let me wake up... here."

But this wasn't what she wanted.

This wasn't her home.

Eunho's cries intensified.

She scrambled out of bed.

Stumbled to the window.

The view outside was unfamiliar.

A foreign cityscape stretched before her.

Eunho's knees buckled.

She collapsed to the floor.

"What have I done?"

"Where am I?"

Eunho's sobs echoed through the room.

Her 8-year-old sister, eun-mi rushed in.

"Unnie, what's wrong?"

Their young mom followed, concern etched on her face.

"Eunho, sweetie, what happened?"

Eunho's tears flowed harder.

"I... I thought it right I am seeing ghosts now

"I thought I was stuck in a different life..."

Just then, Naein, her 24-year-old cousin, appeared.

"Hey, kiddo, what's the drama?"

Naein's playful tone cut through Eunho's despair.

Eunho's tears slowed.

Naein's gaze sparkled with mischief.

"I renovated your room while you slept."

Eunho's eyes widened.

The new furniture, the fresh paint...

And our neighbours cutted their trees from their garden..,

It wasn't a new reality.

Just her cousin's surprise.

Eunho's face lit up.

"Am I... really back in my 17-year-old body?"

She shouted, joy overflowing.

Naein chuckled.

"Of course, silly! Where else would you be?"

Eunho leapt up.

Hugged Naein tightly.

"I thought I lost everything..."

Naein's expression softened.

"You're home, Eunho."

Eunho's heart swelled.

This life, with her family...

Was the one she truly wanted.

But questions lingered...

What about Jihoon?

The mysterious voice?

The time freezes?

Why tae-oh and jihoon are ignoring eun-ho like they never meet but elder sooyoung tell that they fight over her ?