MALIN'S POV
"I took a deep sigh as I found my way inside the house..." Where are you from?" Ms Huang asked as I ignored her and continued to move along...she then gripped my arm tightly, her voice sharp and demanding. "Where are you from?" she repeated, her fierce glare making it hard to look away. I wanted to brush her off, to pretend I hadn't heard, but she wasn't letting go. "Hospital... I am from the hospital," I finally replied, lifting my bag of medicine as if it were proof of my reality. I pulled away, trying to escape her grasp.
She continued her lecture, her words cutting deeper than I cared to admit. "You have been acting up a lot recently... but if you want to live here peacefully, then you should know your limits... and stop crossing them." I clenched my fists, frustration bubbling inside me. "Why are you glaring? Lower your gaze when you're talking to an elder," she added, pushing my head down slightly. "Urrghh, she is so annoying," she muttered as she turned to leave. "There are some dishes left to wash... hurry and do that before you go to sleep," she commanded, her back already towards me.
With a heavy sigh, I fixed my hair and made my way to my room. I glanced at the calendar, crossing out another day. Each mark brought me closer to freedom, to finally leaving this place. As I placed the calendar down, my eyes fell on the bag of medicine, a reminder of the man who had helped me time and again. It was strange how our paths kept crossing, but I felt a sense of gratitude towards him. I pulled out my phone, seeing his contact name, "Lee Yi," and a smile crept onto my face....."Right, the hospital bills..." I muttered to myself as I dashed over to my savings box, my heart racing. How much was it again? I racked my brain but couldn't recall the exact figure. "Should I ask him?" I pondered, feeling a little uneasy. Wouldn't that make me seem unserious? If I offered to pay him back, I should at least know how much I was paying back.
Sighing, I thought about how to phrase a text. What could I even say? Were we close enough to text? I shook my head; I wasn't going to ask anything personal—just a quick question. But what if he didn't reply? "I'll just ask the hospital tomorrow," I decided, feeling that was the best solution. With that settled, I got up to finish the work assigned to me before heading to bed.
The next morning, during physical education, I was warming up for dodgeball when Hana approached me with a curious look. "Are you here to get your hair pulled out again?" I smirked, trying to keep things light.
"No... I'm here to ask you who that man was," she replied, her tone serious.
"Man?" I questioned, feigning ignorance.
"Yes, the man that brought you home yesterday. Why, you thought I didn't see him?" she shot back, and I scoffed.
"Well, it's none of your business..." I said, trying to brush it off.
"As you say. I guess I'll make it our parents' business too. Let's see how they react to the fact that you have an older man," she threatened, a smirk on her face.
"Suit yourself," I replied, rolling my eyes as she turned to leave. Just then, the teacher called for everyone to gather up, and we all fell into line.
*
*
LEE YI / SHI YI'S POV
As I stood there, the weight of the evening ahead settled on my shoulders. "Is everything set?" I asked Haejun, trying to mask the nerves bubbling beneath the surface.
"Yes... you and the investors will be meeting for dinner at M and H restaurant. I've booked a private room so that you have the privacy to discuss whatever you have to," he replied, his tone reassuring.
I nodded, my mind racing. "Okay then... is there something I need to know about these investors?"
Haejun leaned in slightly, his expression serious. "Well, one of them is Mr. Park Jimin. He is from Blue Eyes Investments; it's one of the top investment companies in Qingzhen. The other is Mr. Han Daon from Han Investments; it's a startup investment company."
A frown creased my forehead. "What is a startup investment company taking the risk of investing in the Essence hotels that are drowning in debt?"
"I think they want to test the waters and take the risk. Thankfully, if your talk with them goes well today, then you will save them from their doom," Haejun replied, a hint of optimism in his voice.
Just then, my phone chimed, pulling my attention away. I glanced down to see a message that read, «You have received a cash deposit of 1000 in your account...». A second message quickly followed, «Thank you so much for everything... that's the hospital deposit I promised to pay back. Thanks for being patient with me...". I couldn't help but chuckle softly at both messages, a wave of relief washing over me.
"Is everything okay?" Haejun asked, his brow raised in curiosity.
"Yes... I'll go and get ready for the dinner," I said as I stood up to leave...
I got ready and set off to meet the investors, feeling a mix of anticipation and nerves. As I arrived at the restaurant, I spotted Mr. Park and Mr. Han waiting. "Thanks for coming," I said, shaking hands with both of them and gesturing for them to take a seat.
"Would you like to order now, or should we talk first?" I asked, trying to gauge their preferences.
"I'll have a glass of water... let's have our meal after our discussion," Mr. Park suggested, and Mr. Han nodded in agreement. We ordered some water, which was soon placed on our tables, and then I took a deep breath, ready to dive into the discussions.
"Can I ask with what honor we have been invited by Mr. Lee Yi today?" Mr. Park questioned directly, his gaze steady and expectant. I took a deep sigh, feeling the weight of their curiosity...."Firstly, thanks for joining me tonight," I began, trying to project confidence despite the urgency I felt inside. I needed them to understand the gravity of my concerns about Ying Zhen's project. "I heard that you are planning to invest in Essence Hotels, but I need you to listen carefully before you make that call."
Mr. Park's expression hardened, his gaze sharp as he leaned in. "What's your concern with Ying Zhen's project?" he demanded. I took a deep breath, feeling the tension rise. This was it. I had to make my case convincingly.
"Ying Zhen has a history of over-promising and under-delivering. His last project was a disaster—full of delays and budget overruns. I genuinely believe this venture could be a huge risk for your capital. In case you didn't know, his hotels are currently drowning in debt. Don't you think you're going in for quite the risk investing in a project you aren't sure is going to fully work out in the end? Are you even sure how long it's going to take for all of this to get settled?" I watched as my words hung in the air, heavy with concern.
Mr. Han interjected, his tone defiant. "Well, business is all about taking risks… Mr. Lee." I chuckled softly, trying to ease the tension. "Of course, yeah, business is all about taking risks. But considering this is one of your first projects with Han Investments, are you sure you want it to be with a project you aren't even 100 percent sure of? Starting projects define what the company is going to be or its future, and this is what you choose. I understand you want to take risks, but not this way."
I studied their faces intently, searching for any sign that I was making an impact. The tension in the room was palpable...I watched as Mr. Han and Mr. Park exchanged glances, their minds clearly churning with the implications of our discussion. "This isn't just about the numbers," I insisted, my voice steady and firm. "It's about your reputation and the long-term impact on your portfolios."
Mr. Han, ever the pragmatist, interjected, "Well, Mr. Yingzhen has everything planned out. We saw and analyzed his proposal before accepting to invest in him. Business is also about honoring commitments…" His words hung in the air, and I felt a surge of frustration. This was going nowhere. "Has the contract already been signed?" I asked
"Not yet…" they both replied, and I seized the moment. "Well, don't sign the contracts and withdraw your investments. In fact, I have a better proposal for you. If you decide to pull your interest in Ying Zhen's hotels tonight, I can offer each of you 50 million as a gesture of goodwill. Think of it as a safety net for your investments."
The room fell into a heavy silence as they processed my offer. I could see their expressions shifting, the allure of my proposal slowly overshadowing their initial interest in Ying Zhen. I leaned back slightly, letting my words linger. "This is an opportunity to protect your assets and invest in something much more stable. I promise, your money will be put to better use elsewhere."
"So what do you think?" I pressed, eager for a response. Mr. Park's gaze narrowed, and he asked, "Mr. Lee, you are the CEO and owner of L.Y. Investments, right? How are we supposed to trust that you aren't trying to land this deal for yourself?" His skepticism was palpable....I took a deep breath, trying to convey the seriousness of the situation. "Look, gentlemen, this isn't about L.Y. Investments. This is about weighing your options and seeing what truly matters to you. You have to consider whether you want to invest in an uncertain project that could jeopardize your portfolios or take the 50 million I'm offering as a secure alternative."
I could see the gears turning in their minds, the conflict between risk and security playing out visibly on their faces. "I'm genuinely looking out for you both. You're in the same business I am, and I want to ensure you make the best decision for your futures. After our meal, feel free to go home and think it over."
I paused for a moment, letting the gravity of my words settle, then added, "I also have something else prepared for you. I'm sure Mr. Yingzhen has his own proposal ready, but I've compiled a comprehensive document that outlines all of his loans and current financial status for his hotel. These documents will give you a clearer picture and help you make an informed decision."
With that, I summoned the waiter, ready to shift the focus back to the present moment. "Excuse me," I called, and the waiter approached with a polite nod. "What would you gentlemen like to have for dinner?" I glanced at Mr. Han and Mr. Park, eager to see if my words had resonated with them as we moved on to the next course of the evening.
*
*
After our meal, I shook both Mr. Park and Mr. Han's hands, feeling the weight of the moment. "Thank you so much for the opportunity to listen," I said sincerely. "Please make sure to think about my proposal, and if you do change your minds, feel free to contact me on this number." Haejun handed them my business card, and I added, "The documents will be sent to your emails."
Then, with a hint of mischief, I continued, "And one more thing... I have this thing I do when I record meetings, so don't think of stabbing me in the back and telling this to Yingzhen. Of course, it might look like I'm trying to buy you out, but to be honest, you accepted to meet and even stayed to listen and have a meal. That's pretty much you accepting to be bought out as well." I smirked, letting my words hang in the air. "My offer still stands, gentlemen, and I hope you make a wise decision."
As they turned to leave, Haejun looked at me and said, "You should have left out the camera part... don't they feel threatened?" I smiled, "I want them to feel threatened." He raised an eyebrow, questioning, "Do you think this is going to work?" I replied confidently, "We shall have to wait and see. Make sure you send them the documents about Yingzhen—the real status of his hotels, not the sugar-coated version he has prepared. These documents might also impact the decision they both have to make."
"Okay, now let's head back to the hotel. I am hungry, and you must be too," I added, feeling the adrenaline of the meeting still coursing through me. Haejun commented, "Well, you don't seem stressed out by this matter." To be honest..Iam a bit worried but at the same time confident that they would choose the quick money instead of making an uncertain investment. It's a thing about human beings—they always fall weak in the face of money. If I just used words and a few documents, they would feel like they were walking out of this with no benefit whatsoever. But since I added the 50 million, they are definitely going to think more in that direction, which would benefit us. " I replied
"But isn't 50 million a lot?" Haejun asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Is it?" I questioned, feeling a bit defensive. "Well, I wasn't resting easy; I just laid out what I thought would turn their minds more. So now we have to wait and see if it did."
"Must be good having lived long enough to have this much money," he teased.
"It would have been sadder if I lived long and still bore with poverty," I replied with a smirk. "Let's go and eat something." I turned to leave and got into the car.
"Wait, you were having dinner with the investors... aren't you supposed to have eaten something?" he questioned.
"Yes, but I wasn't really feeling any of the meals," I replied, feeling a bit annoyed.
"Okay then, let's head back to the hotel and order room service," he suggested.
I stopped to think for a moment. "No... I actually feel like having noodles," I said.
"I'm sure we can order those too," he replied.
"Not the hotel noodles... the convenience store noodles. Take me to the convenience store you left me at last time." I suggested
As we arrived at the store,it was high time I confessed why I was really there. It wasn't just for noodles; I thought I could use this opportunity to check on the girl I saved from drowning the other time. I mean, I was going to mind my own business, but after my talk with Haejun and the old lady who said that the girl had attempted to take her own life, I felt an unexpected concern. Of course, I was no one to talk; I was literally searching for a way to end my own life through breaking the curse. But for some reason, I felt like she still had many years ahead of her. Even though I didn't know why she attempted to make the decision she did, I still cared to know why and hoped that she wouldn't do it again.
"Shall I go in or will you?" Haejun questioned as we arrived.
"Let's both go in," I replied, feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety.
As I walked in, disappointment washed over me when I saw that the lady at the counter this time was not the girl. Could she still be sick? I thought to myself, my heart sinking a little....."Excuse me... how may I help you?" The lady at the counter asked, noticing me staring. I felt a bit flustered and replied, "Uhhmmm... I am here to buy something." I turned to join Haejun but then stopped and turned back. "Does someone by the name of Hong Malin work here by any chance?" I asked, my heart racing a little.
"Well, yes... she works the 4-7 shift," she answered. "Okay... then," I replied, feeling a mix of relief and disappointment as I walked away.
"Which flavor do you want?" Haejun asked, his enthusiasm for the noodles evident. I shrugged, "I'll just take a beer," and I headed over to the refrigerator to grab one. Once outside, I settled into one of the designated seats.
"Okay, you're the one who asked to grab noodles, and now you're just having a beer?" Haejun questioned, raising an eyebrow at me.
"The flavor I wanted wasn't there," I replied, taking a sip of my beer and leaning back, trying to relax.
"What flavor? They pretty much had everything," he pressed.
"Yah, just not what I wanted," I said, a little defensively.
"You're so picky," he complained, slurping up his noodles while I savored my drink, feeling a mix of annoyance and amusement at his teasing.
*
*
Back home, I opened the chat with Hong Malin, my fingers hovering over the screen. "Would it be better to call... I mean, are we close enough to be texting?" I questioned myself. I just wanted to know how she was doing; my conscience wouldn't let me move past not knowing. I decided I'd just call and ask. But then I hesitated, "Maybe I should just text," I muttered, toggling between the call and text options.
"Lee Yi!" Haejun called out, startling me from my thoughts. "Why?" I asked, confused about why he was interrupting me.
"The realtor called and asked if the contract for the house can be signed tomorrow," he said, looking serious.
"Uhhmm... okay," I replied, trying to focus on what he was saying.
"I'll schedule the appointment for morning then," he warned as he turned to leave.
I stared back at my phone, still caught up in my thoughts about Hong Malin, and then realized a call was running. My heart sank as I noticed it was her. I must have accidentally pressed call when Haejun startled me earlier. Clearing my throat, I picked up.
"Hello... are you there?" Hong Malin asked, her voice coming through the line.
"Yes... I am here, sorry for that," I replied, feeling flustered. "It's Lee Yi..."
"I know; you saved your number in my phone," she said, and I felt my cheeks heat up.
"Well, I... was calling to ask how you're doing... I mean, are you healing well?" I asked, my nerves getting the best of me.
"Yes... I am doing better, actually... thank you for asking," she replied, and I felt a wave of relief.
"That's good... then," I said, but for some reason, the nerves lingered. "Uhmm, since you're doing well, I'll let you be then," I added quickly, turning to hang up..."Wait!" she called out on the other side of the phone. "Yes!" I replied, my heart racing.
"Did you see the money...?" she questioned, and I could feel a rush of warmth spread through me.
"Yes, I did..." I answered, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Well, thank you again for that day and the day before... in short, thank you for all the times you have helped me out," she said, her voice genuine and appreciative.
"It's okay... I already told you that it's all for my..." I started to say, but she interrupted me.
"Conscious. I know," she said, and I couldn't help but chuckle softly at how well she understood me.
"Okay then... goodnight," she said, and I felt a strange mix of nerves and comfort in her words.
"Goodnight..." I replied, hanging up the call and leaning back, trying to process everything. My heart was racing, and I couldn't help but wonder why I was so nervous. It was just a phone call.
*
*
The next morning, I met up with the realtor. "The payment has been wired to your account..." I said. "And these are all the documents and deeds attached to the house, including the transfer of ownership... the house is now yours... congratulations, Mr. Lee," he said as we shook hands.
"Thank you," I replied as he left. While in the car, I turned to Haejun. "Contact some interior designing companies... I'd like to oversee the overall decoration of the house," I instructed.
"Okay," he replied. "So when do I get to see this house?" he questioned.
"We can go there right now... it's not like we have anything to do," I said.
"Okay..." he replied as we headed to the house. Arriving there, I could see Haejun's eyes light up at the sight of the house.
"This is huge... I mean, almost bigger than our house back in Qiyan," he exclaimed.
"I know... it has the terrace, the backyard... I was actually thinking about inviting your mom to stay with us," I suggested.
"Mom!" he exclaimed.
"I mean, she must be lonely in Qiyan... plus, we shall feel more reassured of keeping her safe if she stays with us," I added as he nodded in agreement.
"Okay... I'll call and tell her later, and if she proves to be stubborn, then you talk to her," he said, and I agreed.
"Well, this isn't champagne or anything, but I got us these two cans of beer to celebrate the house ownership," I said, cracking open a can with a smile.
Back home, I settled into the couch, feeling the weight of the day. "Okay, I've contacted the interior design companies, and they will be meeting with us tomorrow," Haejun said as he sat down next to me.
"What are you watching?" he asked, glancing at the screen.
"I don't know... I was just staring," I replied, my mind elsewhere.
"Do you really think Mr. Park and Mr. Were are sold on our proposal?" I questioned, feeling a mix of hope and anxiety.
"Uhhmm, pretty much yes. Source tells me they still haven't signed to invest with Yingzhen," he replied, trying to reassure me.
"Yeah, but it's already been a day, and they haven't contacted us either," I pointed out, frustration creeping in.
"Well, they must be weighing their pros and cons," he said, trying to remain optimistic.
"What's there to weigh? You have 50 million on one hand and then a risk on the other. I'd take the 50 million," I replied, my impatience evident as he chuckled.
"For someone who has patiently waited a dozen years to break the curse and gain freedom, you being impatient is a bit ironic," he said, raising his eyebrow. "Let's just wait a bit, and you know damn well that if this fails, we can always go with my plan."
"Well, I hope they contact us soon," I said, feeling the tension in my chest.
"They will," he scoffed, and I took a deep sigh, trying to calm my racing thoughts.
*
*
I paced around the room, frustration bubbled within me...it had already been a few days and Mr Park and Mr Han had not gotten back to me.."Are these guys really going to contact us?" I questioned, feeling the weight of anticipation pressing down on me. Haejun's calm demeanor surprised me. "They will," he assured, but I couldn't shake the feeling of impatience gnawing at me.
"It's already been three days... I mean, wasn't the proposal convincing enough? Should I have offered more than 50 million?" I shot back, my voice tinged with anxiety. Haejun remained unruffled. "Look, I checked, and they haven't signed the contract with Yingzhen either. They might still be weighing their options. They have a reputation to uphold; pulling out suddenly would need to be strategic. We gave them the documents, and they can use those as a reason to reconsider. Trust me, they're going to take our offer."
I sighed deeply, feeling the pressure of time. "Why are you in a hurry?" Haejun asked, breaking my train of thought. "What?" I replied, caught off guard. "I mean, you seem rushed with the sword thing," he clarified.
I paused, the truth spilling out. "I've spent years looking for both the sword and the powerful witch. I was starting to lose hope, and just when I thought all was lost, I finally got a lead on the sword. Maybe that's why I feel this urgent need to make things happen quickly before something goes wrong again. I admit, I'm panicking because I'm scared." My heart raced as I spoke, the fear of failure looming over me, pushing me to act before it was too late...."Don't worry... we're going to get this done. Whether it's through the investors or some other method, we're going to get the sword, so stop stressing," Haejun reassured me, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to my racing thoughts. I appreciated his attempt to soothe my nerves, but the weight of uncertainty still pressed heavily on me.
"How about you go walk it off? Staying confined in here will only drive you crazier. Walk it off, distract yourself," he urged, leaning back comfortably on the couch. I glanced at him, contemplating his suggestion. "Are you coming with me?" I asked, hoping for some company.
"No... I mean, I can handle myself in here pretty well," he replied, settling into his spot. I sighed, realizing he was right. "You know what, you're right... I'll go out there and take my mind off things," I responded, grabbing my coat. As I stepped out of the hotel, the cool air hit my face, and I felt a mix of anxiety and relief. Maybe a change of scenery would help clear my mind and ease the tension that had been building inside me.
*
*
MALIN'S POV
I walked into class, and for some reason, it felt like everyone had their eyes on me this time. It was unsettling, and I had no idea what was happening. I quietly made my way to my seat, trying to ignore the whispers and stares. As I pulled out my workbook to prepare for the lesson, a picture of an old man landed on my desk.
"What's this?" I questioned the boys who were chuckling nearby. One of them grinned and said, "That's my grandfather. We heard that that's your taste in men—like you like older guys." The class erupted in laughter, and I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment. "I mean, look at him. He very much so checks all your boxes... wait a minute, is that why you refused to go out with me? Because I'm not old enough to meet your requirements?" he added, and my anger boiled over. I clenched my fists, knowing exactly who had started this ridiculous rumor.
Angrily, I stood up. "Where are you going? Come on, I still have a few more pictures to show you," the boy taunted. I stopped in my tracks, turning around with the intention to hit him. But then I realized that the real person I needed to confront was Hana—the root cause of all my problems. I took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm inside me. This wasn't just about a silly rumour..it was about Hana's obsession with always trying to make my life a living nightmare.
I took a step back, turned around, and dashed to Hana's class. "Hana!" I called out, bursting through the door and drawing the attention of all the students. "Ohh, if it isn't the celebrity of Qingzhen High School. How may I help you, Ms. Hong Malin?" she said with a smug smile. I couldn't help but chuckle angrily at her audacity. "My god, you're so pathetic," I shot back.
"What?" she questioned, feigning innocence. "I mean... what did I ever do to you? Why are you always out to get me? If it isn't enough that I haven't had one peaceful moment with you and your family at home, you just have to bring that hell to me even at school. Like, I can't be free from you people anywhere, can I?" My voice trembled as I fought back tears. "What's your obsession with me? I've tried really hard to put up with you and your tantrums, but you just can't seem to let it go. You keep coming at me like hell, you're suffocating me... so much." I added, my frustration boiling over. "Please... please just let me be," I said, turning to leave.
As I walked away, I felt a panic attack creeping up on me. I struggled to catch my breath, the weight of everything crashing down. I left the school and headed to the bridge, desperate for some air. Leaning against the railing, I scrolled through the school website, and my heart sank. There were edited pictures of me with older men, accompanied by disgusting comments. Tears streamed down my face as I stared over the edge of the bridge, overwhelmed by the hurt and humiliation. I couldn't hold it in any longer; I squatted down, burying my face in my palms, and broke down into tears.
As I broke down in tears, I suddenly felt something being placed over my head. "What's this?" I questioned, instinctively trying to take it off. "Take your time..." the person said gently. "I've covered you so you can cry as much as you want without worrying about anyone seeing you." Their kindness only made my tears flow more freely.
When I finally took the coat off, I was surprised to see that it was the same man who had been helping me lately. "Here you go," he said, handing me a bottle of water. I couldn't help but feel a mix of gratitude and confusion. "Why is it you again?" I asked, my voice still shaky. "Well, you don't seem thrilled," he replied, a hint of concern in his tone.
"I just feel like the more you give me or help me, the more I'm going to owe you, and I hate owing people," I admitted, feeling vulnerable. "I know..." he said, understanding my struggle. "But I just saw that you needed help and stepped in. I never did all that for you to pay me back... I did it for my..." he started, but I interrupted him. "Conscious, I know." I chuckled softly, realizing how silly it sounded. Then, out of the blue, I asked, "Are you hungry?"
"Huh?" he replied, clearly caught off guard. "I feel pretty hungry..." I continued, my stomach growling slightly for emphasis. "Do you want to go out and eat with me?" I watched his reactions closely, hoping he'd say yes. "I mean, I still owe you for saving me at the convenience store... let me pay you back through a meal that isn't just a tin of noodles." I added, trying to lighten the mood. "Or maybe if you don't want them..." I trailed off, but he interrupted me with a smile, "Okay!"
"Are you sure?" I asked, a bit surprised but relieved...."Okay, let's go..." I said, trying to hand the coat. "Wear it... your clothes are light and it's pretty cold." He replied, and I hesitated a moment before slipping it on. It felt a little big on me, but I appreciated the warmth.
When we arrived at the hot pot restaurant, I gestured for him to take a seat. "This is one of the best hotpot restaurants in Qingzhen," I introduced cheerfully, noticing him look around in curiosity. Just then, the old lady who owned the restaurant spotted me. "Malin, is that you?" she called out. "Yes, hello aunt," I said, bowing my head slightly in respect. She asked how I was and why I had been so lost. I explained that I was in my senior year of high school and things had been busy, but I was here today. "So will you have your usual?" she asked, and I nodded eagerly. "Okay, I'll bring it out in a few minutes," she replied before heading off.
I turned back to Lee Yi, who was still seated across from me. "She's the owner," I said, and he nodded. "I used to work part-time with her last year," I added, feeling a bit nostalgic. "She has the best hot pot..." I rambled on, excited to share this experience with him. Finally, our meal arrived, and I thanked the lady before taking a bite. "This looks good," I commented, glancing at Lee Yi, who was still examining the meal. "It's good... try it," I encouraged him, watching as he slowly picked up the chopsticks. He seemed hesitant, looking back at me for reassurance before tasting it. I couldn't help but wait eagerly for his reaction...I leaned forward slightly, eager to hear his thoughts. "So how is it?" I asked, watching him take a small bite. His eyes widened as the flavors exploded in his mouth, and I couldn't help but feel a rush of anticipation. "It's good..." he exclaimed, a smile breaking across his face. Relief washed over me, and I grinned back at him. "I told you! Auntie's hot pot is the best."
As we continued to eat, I noticed how he began to relax, his initial hesitance fading away with each bite. It was heartwarming to see him enjoying the meal so much. "You should try adding some of the vegetables next," I suggested, pointing to the colorful platter. "They soak up all the flavors from the broth." Lee Yi nodded, looking eager to dive into the experience, and I felt a surge of excitement.
After our meal...As we slowly walked out of the restaurant... a thought popped into my mind. "Do you know what's the best thing to eat after hot pot?" I asked, unable to hold back my excitement. "Popsicles!" I exclaimed, my eyes lighting up. "Should we get some popsicles? Consider all of this as me paying back." To my surprise, he agreed, and I couldn't help but feel a rush of joy.
I ran to the nearby store and bought a couple of popsicles. "Here you go," I said, handing him his treat as we sat on a bench outside the store. "Come on, taste it," I urged, watching him hesitantly take a bite. "It's so tasty, right?" I questioned, and he nodded, a smile creeping onto his face. I took a bite of mine and sighed contentedly. "Thank you so much for today," I said, feeling grateful.
"I did nothing today; why are you thanking me?" he replied, looking a bit confused. "Well, you accompanied me... that's something I should be thankful for," I said with a smile. He stared at me for a moment, then pointed out, "You got something on your cheeks." I quickly tried to clean up, but I noticed him chuckle, which made my cheeks heat up. "Here," he said, pulling out his hankie and gently helping to clean my face. My heart raced as he did, and I felt my nerves kick in. "It's cleaned," he said, and I stammered, "Th-thank you," as I quickly took another bite of my popsicle.
After we finished, he said, "I've called a taxi for us. It'll drop you off at your house, and I'll continue to mine." I tried to decline, but he insisted, and we both got into the taxi when it arrived. Sitting side by side, I couldn't help but sneak glances at him...Upon arrival, I felt a rush of emotions as I turned to him and said, "You don't have to get out... I will." I opened the car door, feeling the cool air brush against my skin. As I took off the coat he had given me earlier, I turned to him and said sincerely, "Thank you so much for today."
His response was humble, "I should be thanking you... you're the one who treated me to the meal and popsicles." I couldn't help but smile brightly at him. His concern for me was endearing as he urged, "You should go inside; it's cold." I waved at him, ready to leave, when suddenly he called out my name, "Hong Malin!" I stopped in my tracks, my heart skipping a beat.
"You can always give me a call," he continued, and I felt a flutter of hope. "I mean... if you're ever feeling sad and have no way of processing those emotions, then you can call me. I'm not a good talker, but I'm definitely a great listener... plus we can always go grab a meal together." His words made a smile creep onto my face. "Does this make us like friends?" I asked, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.
"Well, we definitely aren't strangers anymore, so yes, maybe friends," he replied, and I rushed back to the car, extending my hand. "Well then, I'll take you up on your offer... friend." He shook my hand with a smile, and I felt a warmth spread through me. "Okay..." he said, and I raised an eyebrow, prompting him to add, "Friend." My smile widened at that.
"You should get inside," he said, and I waved back at him as I headed into the house.
This random stranger I had first encountered at the party, then again at the convenience store, and finally at the hospital had now become a friend. I found myself reflecting on how peculiar life could be. I wasn't entirely sure who he was or why he had come into my life, but there was a certain spark of curiosity that ignited within me. Each meeting felt like a thread weaving our stories together, and I was more than willing to explore where this connection might lead.
As I thought about our conversations, the laughter we shared, and the moments that felt so genuine, I realized that he brought a sense of warmth and comfort I hadn't expected. There was something refreshing about his honesty and kindness, and I couldn't help but wonder if this was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. The uncertainty of it all was thrilling, and I was eager to uncover the layers of his personality, to learn about his dreams, and to share my own.
In that moment, I felt a wave of hope wash over me. Maybe, just maybe, this unexpected friendship was exactly what I needed. Life had a funny way of surprising us, and I was ready to embrace whatever came next.
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