MALIN'S POV
I stood in front of the mirror, fiddling with my hair, unsure of how I wanted it to look. "Is this okay... or should I wear my hair differently?" I asked myself, before finally letting my bun down and tying back a few strands. "This looks good," I said with a smile, feeling a little more confident as I picked up the gift and headed to the cab that would take me to Lee Yi's home. My stomach fluttered with a mix of nerves and excitement.
As the cab approached, I caught sight of a large fence. "Is this his home?" I questioned, glancing out the window. The driver confirmed we had arrived, and I stepped out, scanning for payment as I slowly walked away from the cab. I stood there in awe as the car drove off, taking a deep breath. "Wow!" I exclaimed, my heart racing as I headed toward the gate.
When I reached the entrance, a guard greeted me. "Welcome, are you here for the housewarming?" he asked. Nodding, I felt the weight of my anticipation. After a brief check on the list, he welcomed me in, and I stepped inside. The mansion was even more lavish than I had imagined. "Wow!" I couldn't help but sigh again, captivated by the grandeur. Guests were arriving, and as I followed them in, I felt a little out of place among such influential people. Just then, a familiar voice called out to me. "Hey..." I turned to see a man I recognized but couldn't quite place...."It's me... Haejun... Lee Yi's friend... we met a couple of times," he introduced himself, and suddenly everything clicked. "Hey... nice to meet you again," I said, forcing a nervous smile. His warm smile in return made me feel a little more at ease. "I'm glad you could make it... well, welcome to our humble home. Make sure to help yourself to anything... feel comfortable," he urged. "Thank you," I replied, feeling grateful for his kindness.
"I'd like to stay and chat, but I'm needed... I'll see you around," he said, and I nodded, watching him leave. "Okay... help myself to anything," I thought, looking around the lavish space. I turned to find a place to settle but accidentally bumped into a waiter. "Sorry," I sighed, relieved that nothing had fallen. "It's okay," he said, turning to leave, but then I noticed some wine had spilled on my dress. "Urghh!" I exclaimed, scanning the room for the washrooms.
"Are you looking for something?" a lady asked. "No... yes, actually, the washrooms. I spilled something on my dress," I admitted. "Oh, I see... come with me," she said, and I followed her. "Here we are," she said, showing me the way. "Thank you," I replied, feeling a bit flustered. "Help yourself," she said as I walked in. As I wiped the spill off my dress and fixed my hair, I caught a glimpse of someone in the mirror. "Oh, Hong Malin...!" the person exclaimed, and I scoffed, completely taken aback. She was the last person I expected to see.
Hana looked at me, her brows furrowing in confusion. "Wait, what are you doing here? Are you like the help... but aren't you a bit overdressed for that position?" I smirked, choosing to ignore her as I made my way to leave. "Are you ignoring me?" she called after me, and I sighed, continuing to walk out.
"Hey!! You have forgotten something!" I heard her shout, prompting me to search myself. That's when I realized I had left the gift bag behind. "What is this?" she questioned, trying to peek inside. "Give that back," I demanded, but she pulled it away with a teasing grin. "Why... I just wanted to take a little peek," she replied, her smirk infuriating me.
"Hana!" I yelled, my voice rising slightly. "Give it back!" I added, frustration bubbling up inside me. She paused, still smirking, and then said, "Alright... take it." Reluctantly, she handed it back to me. "Now can you tell me what you're doing here?" she pressed. "I don't owe you any explanation," I shot back, turning to leave. But then she asked, "Is Mr. Lee your new target...?" My anger flared, and I stopped dead in my tracks. "I mean... a single young rich man... I knew you couldn't manage on your own... why are you targeting him?" she continued, her words stinging like daggers.
I gripped my fists tightly, trying to contain my frustration. "Listen here, Hana..." I started to say, but then a voice interrupted me. "Hong Malin?" I turned to see Lee Yi standing there. "You here?" he asked, and I felt a nervous smile creep onto my face. "Yes..." I replied, feeling a mix of relief and excitement. "I am glad you could make it... uhmm come with me... I'll show you around," he said, offering me his arm. "Okay," I said, slipping my arm into his.
"Mr. Lee," Hana called out, her tone shifting. "I am Hana... Mr. Ying's daughter," she introduced herself. Lee Yi looked at her with a confused expression, "Mr. Ying?" he asked, clearly puzzled...."Mr. Yingzhen..." Hana explained, her tone somewhat smug. "Your business partner," she added, as if that would clarify everything. Lee Yi responded, "Oh, we're not exactly business partners. I invest in his company... anyways, nice to meet you." He turned back to me, his focus shifting. "Hana," she introduced herself, and I could sense the tension in the air.
"Yeah, Hana, help yourself to anything," he said, and I felt a rush of relief as we started to walk away. "You should have texted me upon arrival. You must have been bored staring at all these unfamiliar faces," he remarked, and I chuckled softly. "It's actually not been long since I arrived," I replied, trying to keep the mood light.
"Have you heard anything to eat or drink?" he asked, concern lacing his voice. I couldn't help but question him in return, "Did you hear any of what Hana said?" Observing his expression, I noted the confusion. "No," he replied, shaking his head. "Was there something I should have heard?"
"No," I sighed, feeling the weight of the conversation. "Shall we go get something to eat?" he suggested, a smile breaking through the tension. "Okay," I agreed, grateful for the distraction as we left the awkwardness behind.
As we approached the food table, he pulled out a plate for me. "What shall you be having?" he asked, and I scanned the spread, my mouth watering at the sight of all the delicious options. "Everything looks good," I said, my eyes darting over the variety.
"You can have everything," he replied, and I chuckled lightly. "No, that was a compliment. I'll have some brown rice, steamed Irish, and then chicken," I decided, feeling a bit more at ease. "Wait... will you be serving me?" I questioned, a playful tone in my voice.
"Well, it's self-service for all the guests... Heejo feels like it's a better way for everyone to take their fill of the food without feeling restrained," he explained. "Heejo?" I echoed, curiosity piqued..." Heejo, my sister... She prepared everything—the meals, the decorations, the music..she has a knack for this since she is sort of an events planner...and an exceptional cook.." he said and I could see the admiration in his eyes as he spoke about her, and it made me smile. "I'll introduce you to her after she settles down," he said, and I nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation.
As he glanced around, searching for a place for me to sit, he finally pointed to a spot. I followed him, grateful for his thoughtfulness. He placed my plate down gently and pulled out a chair for me before sitting across from me. "Thank you," I said, noticing he hadn't got food for himself... "Aren't you going to eat?" I asked, curious. "I've already had my fill... I was in charge of the pre-testing, so I've had my share of most of the meals," he replied with a chuckle. I couldn't help but laugh softly at his response. "Are you feeling uncomfortable eating with me not?" he asked, and I quickly reassured him, "No... I am actually thankful for your company."
Just as I was about to dig in, someone called out, "Lee Yi!" I turned to see the woman who had helped me earlier approaching us. "It's almost time for your little speech," she said, and he stood up, prompting me to do the same. "Have all the guests arrived?" he inquired. "Yeah... I'm actually curious how you've already made so many friends in Qingzhen in just a month," she replied, then turned to me with a smile. "Hey," she greeted. "Hello," I responded, feeling the warmth of the moment...."Right... this is the awesome sister I was talking about... and Heejo, this is my good friend Hong Malin." Lee Yi introduced me, and I could feel a flutter of nerves. "Nice to meet you, Hong Malin," Heejo said, extending her hand for a shake. "Nice to meet you too," I replied, forcing a smile to hide my anxiety.
Just as I was starting to relax, Heejo interrupted, "I'm really sorry for the interruption, Malin, but could I steal him for a minute?" I glanced at Lee Yi, unsure. "Yes... it's okay," I said, trying to sound casual. "Let's go," she said, and Lee Yi followed her, assuring me he'd be back soon. My heart raced at his words, and I nodded, "Okay... thank you," as he flashed me a reassuring smile before leaving.
I sighed and returned to my meal, which Lee Yi had praised as amazing. Just as I was finishing, someone sat opposite me, startling me. It was Mr. Ying. "Hey, Hong Malin," he said, and I rubbed my fingers together nervously. "Hana told me she saw you around here... can we talk?" he asked, pulling me aside. "When are you coming back home?" he questioned. I scoffed, "What home?" He continued, "Look, I know you and Ms. Huang, as well as Hana, have some issues, but I'm sure you can work them out... you didn't have to leave home because of those." I scoffed again, feeling the weight of his words....As I listened to him speak, I just couldn't wrap my head around why he was suddenly concerned after years of ignoring me and the things his wife and daughter had done. "I'm not coming back," I said firmly, feeling a mix of anger and resolve. "And I think that's what Ms. Huang and Hana want as well." His response was quick, urging me to go back home with him that night, but I shook my head. "That place is not my home... it has never been. If anything, it's the last place I want to go. I'm okay on my own if that's what you're worried about."
With that, I turned to leave, my heart racing from the confrontation. I made my way to the beverages table, pouring myself a glass of water to cool down. Just then, Lee Yi's voice cut through the chatter, commanding everyone's attention. I turned to see him standing confidently, and I felt a flicker of admiration for his ability to gather everyone. "This isn't going to be long since I invited you here to have some fun and not listen to me give some long boring speech," he began, and I couldn't help but smile at his lighthearted approach. He expressed gratitude for everyone who had come, mentioning how new they were to Qingzhen and how glad he was that most of the people he wanted were there. "On behalf of my family... I welcome you to our home. Please feel at home," he said, and I felt a warmth in his words, even amidst the tension I had just left behind...
Applause and chatter filled the air as Lee Yi wrapped up his speech. Everyone returned to their previous activities, but my mind was still consumed by what Mr. Ying had said. My eyes drifted around the room until I spotted him, his wife, and Hana staring at me. An uncomfortable feeling settled in my stomach, prompting me to pick up my purse and the gift bag, searching for a quieter place away from their judgmental looks and negativity.
As I wandered, I stumbled upon a rooftop. There was something about rooftops that always drew me in; they felt like the most open and peaceful spots to escape to. Standing there, I took in the view of the swimming pool below, letting out a sigh of relief. "I knew I could find you here," Lee Yi's voice broke through my thoughts. I turned to see him approaching, a hint of concern in his eyes. "I thought you had left without saying goodbye," he added.
"I wouldn't... I just needed some air," I replied, managing a smile. He glanced at me knowingly. "I saw you talking to Mr. Ying earlier, so I believe that he must be the reason you stand over here." I looked back at him, feeling the weight of the situation. "He wants me to go back to the Ying mansion," I admitted. "It's actually funny that he does, after all three of them making it clear I was nothing but a burden." Lee Yi offered, "Do you want to talk about it? I can listen." I sighed, shaking my head. "No... I want to forget about it." I paused, then added, "That being said, I think I need a glass of wine." I said as he chuckled..." We can do something about that.." he replied as I raised my eye brow....
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I watched as Lee Yi poured me a glass of wine. "Thank you," I said, lifting the glass and first sniffing it. "It smells nice," I complimented before taking a quick sip. "And tastes even better," I added as he stared at me quietly. "Is this your first time drinking?" he questioned. "No... no... I had a beer once to celebrate turning 18... that was last year," I said defensively. "And you haven't had any since?" he asked. "Well, I did lots of crazy things when I had that one beer, so... I swore off any alcohol, beer, or wine since then," I explained.
"You swore off beer," he said with a chuckle. "Yeah... it scared me how you can take something and not have control of your mind and body afterwards... I like feeling like I am in control of myself," I replied as he listened quietly. "That's good... then you might need to slow down on this one. It's sweet, so you find yourself taking more and more, and before you know it, you're drunk without even realizing it," he explained as I nodded. "I'll keep that in mind," I said with a smile as I sipped more. "You should have some too... I'll pour you a glass," I said as I picked up the bottle and did. "Thank you," he said with a smile. "Cheers... to your housewarming," I said as we tossed our glasses. "I should hold one too," I said. "What?" he questioned. "A housewarming... I mean, this is my first apartment... I should celebrate entering it," I said...." You should..and I'll be more than glad to attend it.." he said, and I couldn't help but chuckle softly at his enthusiasm. "I'll let you know when it will happen.." I replied with a smile, feeling the warmth of the moment as I turned my attention back to the wine. The night was beautiful, and for some reason, I felt a sense of peace enveloping me. Perhaps it was the wine, but more likely it was the comforting presence of Lee Yi, who sat next to me, making everything feel just right.
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LEE YI / SHI YI'S POV
"How are you already drunk from just a glass of wine..?" I questioned, watching Malin sway back and forth. "I'll have one more," she declared loudly, and I chuckled softly. "I think that's more than enough for you..." I said, gently pulling the glass away from her. "I'll take you home," I added as I tried to help her up.
"Wait! Wait a minute..." she said, looking around as if searching for something. "Here... I haven't given you this," she said, handing me a gift bag. "I wanted to leave it at the table with all the other gifts, but I thought I should hand it to you in person..."
I held the bag in my hands and took a peek inside. "What's this?" I asked with a smile. "A small gift... to celebrate your housewarming," she replied. I pulled out what seemed to be a wall hanger, a decoration. "This is..." I started, but she interrupted.
"I know... it's not like a fancy gift, and I doubt you have a place for it in this huge house, but..." she trailed off. I stopped her, saying, "It's beautiful... and I know where I can put it."
"Thank you," I added, and her smile widened. "I am glad you like it," she said, but then sighed and tried to stand up, only to stumble. "Hold onto my arm," I instructed, and she did. "Thank you," she said as we left.
"Here you are," Haejun said, and I noticed him looking at Malin. "Isn't that Hong Malin? Is she drunk?" he questioned. "Yes... I am taking her home," I replied, but he quickly added, "Well, you can't... Mom wants you to help her see the guests off."...." I am sure you can do that," I replied, feeling a bit of pressure. "I can fill in for you like I've been doing the entire night, but mom said that it has to be you, so follow me." He insisted, and I knew he was right. "Fine... I'll first settle her into the guest room," I said, trying to keep the mood light.
"Okay... what some help?" he asked as I lifted her in my arms. "I'll manage... hold her purse," I instructed him, and he complied without hesitation. I carried her into the guest room and tucked her in for a while, making sure she was comfortable. "Let's go," Haejun said, and I stood up to leave with him. We finally saw the guests off, and I felt a wave of relief that the night had gone as planned, at least for the most part.
"Okay then... I guess we shall clear up tomorrow. I bet you all are tired, so have some rest," Heejo said as I stood up. "I'll head out first," I announced. "Where are you going?" she asked, a hint of concern in her voice. "It's Hong Malin... I need to drop her home. She's a bit drunk," I explained, feeling responsible. "And you seem like you had a few drinks as well... and you're also tired, so how about letting her spend the night? She can head out tomorrow," she advised, and I considered it. "Unless otherwise... it's late as well," she added. "That's a great idea... and even if you manage to send her home, she's going to be on her own," Haejun chimed in. "I guess she can spend the night," I replied, feeling a sense of relief. "Okay... I'll go and check on her," I said as I turned to leave. I found her still peacefully sleeping and decided to turn off the lights to let her have some more rest.
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After a quick shower, I headed down to find Heejo cleaning. "I thought we agreed to all have some rest and clean up tomorrow... plus I was thinking of interviewing some house help," I said. "I wasn't falling asleep, so I decided, why not?" she replied. "I can't sleep either... so maybe I should help?" I suggested. "Well, I am not left with much to do, but maybe we can have a cup of tea together?" she said as I nodded. "That sounds like a good idea... we have a lot of catching up to do," I replied.
After her work was completed, she handed me a cup of tea. "Thank you," I said as I sighed and looked around. "There are a lot of stars today," I noted. "Right..." she chuckled. "How long are you planning to stay in Qingzhen? I never asked about what you were going to do here, but it must be an important consideration you extending your stay," she questioned. "I am not sure, and my work got some complications, and I might have to start again, so it might take a while," I replied. "And you still can't tell me what this work is?" she pressed. "It's just investment work... I have invested in some companies, and I have to wait for feedback or something," I explained. "Investment... okay," she said as I sipped my tea. "You must really adore her," she added. "Her?" I questioned. "Hong Malin..." she replied. "I feel the need to look out for her," I admitted..." The need to look out for her?" she questioned. "I met her in some special circumstances... she fell off a bridge... some people said that it was willingly... so..." I explained, feeling the weight of the story. "Oh my God..!" she exclaimed, her shock palpable. "At first, I pitied her and hoped that she never does that again... I hoped that the thought never crosses her mind again... so I looked out for her... and helped her in any way I could but as I got to know her, I realized that she is actually nice, she is hardworking and funny and thoughtful... hates hand-me-downs... always feels the need to be thankful for literally everything," I continued, noticing Heejo staring at me.
"Go on..." she encouraged, and I chuckled softly. "I feel a connection towards her... I am not sure what that is but it's there..." I replied. "Well, I am glad you're making connections and friends outside the family circle," she said. "Outside the family circle? I have lots of those..." I replied defensively. "Yeah, business connections... none are personal... take a look back... and I heard from Dad that it has something to do with the fact that you don't want to feel too attached to someone just to watch them outlive their lives and leave you behind..." she explained. "And I do understand... you always have to go through that pain watching us leave you... but then that should not stop you from embracing life and living a little... you have to look at this whole immortality curse as an advantage... get to do all the things you would love to do... make connections with people...Live happily...." She advised... as I felt a lump in my throat wth tears welling up in my eyes..."Woah... when did you grow up so fast?" I asked. "You aren't the young girl who always asked me to play rock paper scissors just to decide who gets to wash the dishes," I teased, and she playfully hit me on the arm. "That little girl has grown up and is now your older sister," she replied with a smile. "Yeah, and it's really weird..." I said..."You should be used to it by now," she replied. " I missed this," I said, looking at her.
"The herbal tea?" she asked, a smile spreading across her face. "And talking to you..." I admitted, my heart warming at the moment. "I missed this as well," she replied, returning my smile. We continued our conversations, laughter filling the room until later on. Back in my room, my eyes landed on the gift Malin had given me. "Where should we hang this?" I wondered aloud as I placed it on the wall. "How did she even think of this?" I mused, a smile creeping onto my face at the thought of Malin's thoughtful gift.
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MALIN'S POV
I woke up groaning from an irritating headache. I don't even remember drinking that much. I tried to open my eyes and couldn't help but sit up fast at the realization that I wasn't at my apartment but somewhere else. "Oh no... did I stay over at Lee Yi's house?" I questioned, and immediately heard a knock at the door which startled me. "Malin!" someone called out, and I quickly ran to open the door. In front of me stood the lady I was introduced to yesterday, Lee Yi's sister.
"Good morning..." she said as I snapped out of my thoughts. "Good morning..." I replied. "Just came to check on how you're doing... and to inform you that breakfast is ready and we would like you to join us," she said. "I am fine... and I'd love to," I said nervously. "Well, I bet you would love to freshen up a bit. There is a washroom in the room. I'll bring you some clothes to wear," she offered. "Okay, thank you..." I said as she turned to leave, and I quickly locked the door.
"How did this happen? I hope I didn't do anything stupid or silly..." I thought to myself as I vigorously rubbed through my hair. I quickly took a shower, and as I did, Ms. Heejo informed me about the clothes she had got me and placed on my bed. Once I was done with my shower, I got ready to head down for breakfast. Stepping out of the room, I looked around and managed to make my way to the dining room, where I found Ms. Heejo setting up the table....
" Why weren't these two down here yet? Ms. Heejo's voice echoed in my mind as she turned to see me.." You here.." she said.." Can you help me stir the oat meal..I'll go and see if these two are up.." she said as I agreed and rushed to help her stir the oatmeal, trying to make sure it didn't burn at the bottom. Just then, I heard a soft "Good morning," and my heart skipped a beat. It was Lee Yi. "Good morning," I replied nervously, but as I did, I accidentally spilled some oatmeal on my hand.
"Hey!" he exclaimed, rushing over to me. I felt a rush of embarrassment as he grabbed my hand and poured some water on it. "What were you thinking? You should be careful," he said, his voice filled with concern. "I am sorry... I was..." I tried to explain, but he interrupted me. "It's okay. You don't have to apologize," he reassured me, his gaze focused on my hand, which was turning red from the burn.
Just then, Ms. Heejo appeared, her eyes wide with worry. "What's happening? Did she hurt herself?" she asked, and I felt a wave of guilt wash over me. "I am sorry... I was trying to remove the..." I started, but she cut me off. "Why are you apologizing? You're the one who's hurt! Lee Yi, go help her apply some ointment on that," she instructed firmly. Haejun then came in, greeting me as I slowly followed Lee Yi to the first aid kit. "Have a seat," he said gently, opening the kit. "Hand me your hand," he instructed, and I complied, feeling a mix of anxiety and gratitude as he warned me, "This might sting a little." I clenched my fists, watching him carefully apply the ointment, feeling a strange warmth in my chest as I stared at him...."Thank you," I said softly as I watched him work, feeling a strange mix of embarrassment and gratitude. "I really didn't mean to spill it like that." Lee Yi looked up and gave me a reassuring smile, his eyes softening. "It happens to everyone. Just try to be a bit more careful next time," he said gently.
As he finished applying the ointment, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. "All done," he said, and I glanced down at my hand, the redness starting to fade. "Thanks for helping me out," I replied, feeling a warmth in my chest. "No problem at all. Now, let's get back to breakfast before Ms. Heejo comes looking for us," he chuckled, and I couldn't help but smile back, feeling a little lighter as we headed back to the dining room together.
Lee Yi pulled out a seat for me, and as I settled in, my eyes wandered over the variety of snacks on the table. "I know what you're thinking... it's just breakfast, so why all this?" Haejun said, snapping me out of my thoughts. "Uhhmmm..." I replied, a bit caught off guard. Haejun continued, "My mom respects every meal, or you can say she considers it some kind of ritual. Every meal of the day is important, and to top it all, it must be eaten with the ones you love; that way, it can feel more wholesome." I couldn't help but smile at the reasoning.
Ms. Heejo chimed in, "I also have a rule that says one should eat without talking. It's strict, but it helps avoid incidents of choking." She placed a glass in front of me. "This is honey water; it will help with your hangover," she said. "Thank you," I replied, picking it up and taking a sip. "Okay then, help yourself to anything you would like," she added. As I started to dig in, I reached for the jar of juice, and Lee Yi helped place it within my reach. "Thank you," I said to him as he smiled back.
As we ate, I took a moment to observe how close they were as a family. They weren't necessarily a huge family, but you could feel the warmth and love through all their interactions. I was glad to be a part of it, even just for a minute. Suddenly, a voice pierced through my thoughts. "Malin! Are you okay?" Lee Yi asked. "I am fine..." I replied, shaking off my reverie as I returned to my breakfast.
After breakfast, I helped Ms Heejo clear the table.." I already told you..that you don't have to do all of this.. especially with a burnt hand." She said.." It's okay... I'd like to help." I replied...." Consider it me thanking you for the wholesome breakfast." I added..." You do say that word alot..don't you?" She said.." What word?" I questioned.." Thank you...I noticed it alot...I even counted and you have said it like ten times today.." she said as I chuckled softly.." I can't help it.." I replied.." I understand...it's virtue.." she replied..." I'll do the dishes my self so you can go and have some rest.." she said.." Iam actually heading home.." I replied.." Right....well thanks for your help today..." She said.." Thank you for the breakfast and the clothes." I replied.." And that's 11.." she said as I couldn't help my chuckle..." I'll get going then.." I said as I left to get ready.
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I rummaged through the guestroom, feeling a bit frantic. "Where is it?" I questioned, wondering if I had left it on the rooftop. As I made my way up, I found Lee Yi. "Hey, are you done getting ready? I'll drop you off," he said, and my eyes wandered nervously. "Are you looking for something?" he asked, and I hesitated before replying, "Did you by any chance see a gift bag? It contained something I wanted to give you, but I can't find it anywhere..."
"Ohh... Well, that's because you gave it to me last night," he replied, and I felt a wave of realization wash over me. "I did?!" I exclaimed. "Yes, you did... I even have it hung up in my room," he said with a reassuring smile. I sighed with relief, then nervously asked, "Well, did you like it?" "I did; that's why I have it hung up in my room," he confirmed, and I felt a flutter of happiness.
"Now shall we?" he questioned, but I quickly added, "You actually don't have to drop me off... I can take a taxi." He looked at me with determination, saying, "I actually wasn't asking you if I could do it; I was telling you that I was going to do it... now let's go." Heat rushed to my cheeks as I replied, "Okay," following him. "Wait for me here," he instructed before leaving and returning with a bag. "Let's go," he said, and we left the house together.
The ride was quiet, filled with stolen glances between us. Each time he caught me looking, I felt a mix of nervousness and embarrassment. Eventually, we arrived, and as I unfastened my seatbelt...Thank you for the ride home... I said as a voice of Ms. Heejo rang in my head counting... "Twelve," which reminded me of our earlier conversation, bringing a smile to my face. "You're welcome," he replied. As I turned to open the door, he called out, "Hey! Take the bag as well."
"The bag?" I questioned. "Right, remember when I said I'd give you some of my clothes to hang up in your apartment to make it seem like you live there with someone in order to avoid creeps? These are the clothes," he explained, and my heart skipped a little. "Thank you," I replied. "It's nothing," he said as I caught the bag and headed out of his car.
"I'll get going," I said. "Is it up there?" he questioned, pointing at the building. "Yes, up there. I am still a bit of a mess, but I'll make sure to invite you in next time," I explained. "It's okay, take your time," he replied. "Have a nice day," I said to him as I left. Turning back, I could see him watching me, and he shot a little wave of goodbye towards me before he left. "Goodbye," I said as I walked to my apartment.
Reaching in, I couldn't help but sigh as I placed the bag down. I felt the urge to open it, and inside were long-sleeved shirts, pants, and even shoes. I know it's a bit weird, but I sniffed the shirts as I hung them on the balcony, and then I headed over to the library for my boring Sunday shift.
As I arranged the aisles, my phone rang, and I picked it up. "Hello," I said. "Hello," a lady's voice came through the line. Who could this be? I wondered. "Song Jia... can we meet up tomorrow?" she asked, catching me off guard. After days of trying to reach out and her refusing, I was surprised she was reaching out herself this time. I needed to know why she sent me that weird text.
"Okay, where?" I questioned, curious about the location. "SJ cafe... in the afternoon," she replied. "Okay," I said, trying to keep my composure. "Okay... see you then," she said before hanging up. I was left with a mix of anticipation and confusion as I returned to my task.
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