Goodbye Monday Couple - ONE SHOT

Goodbye Monday Couple – ONE SHOT

Gary slowly look through the pictures from the photo album. Flipping through the book, accompanied by the soft jazz music playing in the recording room. Each one holds so many memories and laughers; which belongs to just two of them. The memories just gushed in like waterfall crazily. As he sips through the wine, he felt a sense of sadness yet relief at the same time.

It was one the biggest decision he made in life. More than 15 years ago, he chose to get into music, and then later, was getting into variety show. And today he chose to quit it.

The fame and recognition he gained through Running Man was something he could not repay back to the PD that initially approached him. Without Running Man, his works would not be recognized as much now, as he isn’t a mainstream idol or singer. He just love making his own style of music, standing out in his own style in the music industry.

As he flips through the pages in the photo album, he can’t help but to smile looking at those wonderful memories. Jihyo’s smile is just so endearing, so genuine, and so real. He always hears his fan saying that, Ji Hyo is the most comfortable around Gary, maybe it is really true. As pictures won’t lie.

His phone showed 11.30pm when he heard the front door unlocking.

“Oh?”

He left the album on the table and got out of the swivel chair and headed outside.

Standing in the middle of the room, it was a lady who knows the password to his studio very well; Ji Hyo. She was standing there in an oversize grey coloured long sleeved fleece shirt, top with a red beanie. She also covered her face with black sunglasses and mask.

“Did anyone see you?” He asked almost immediately.

She just shook her head.

Gary broke into a smile. He stepped forward and pulled in for a big hug. The lady too, comfortably fit herself into his big hug.

Gary broke off the hug and made the Ji Hyo looked at him. “What brought you here? You didn’t tell me you’re coming.”

The lady took off the mask and sunglasses that is covering up her face.

“I saw you barely touched your food earlier during dinner. So I brought you food.” She raised up her right hand to show what she brought along in that secretive attire. She broke into a smile, and a perfect eye smile.

How can I not fall and give up for this girl?

Gary peered into the bags on her hand. He can smell jjajangmyeon (black bean noodle) and tang su yuk (sweet sour pork).

He was shock at the choice of food. “At this hour?”

“Anytime is a good time for jjajangmyeon,” She aegyo-ed back. “Come, let’s eat.”

They set up the table, and made themselves comfortable in the same place where they filmed earlier. Gary took the chopstick and started mixing the jjajangmyeon sauces.

“You know, I am not trying to be cheesy…but eating with you at this hour…” Gary said suddenly.

“What?”

“How should I describe it..?”

Ji Hyo gave him a curious look.

He turned to her and looked straight into her eyes. “I am just happy. Contended. So blissful.”

“Tsk.” She jeered at his words. But in her heart, she felt really warmth and happy too. It was simple, just the two of them, without any cameras, without any weird mission of ‘fake’ date, without any other members whom are always asking them to get together. 

“Oppa be truthful, did you cried just now reading our letters?”

Trying to be masculine, he maintained his composure. “Men shed blood but not tears.” He said nonchalantly.

“You sure?” Ji Hyo frowned at him.

“Y-Yes.”

“Are you?”

“No—Yes…a little”

“Just a little?”

“Well, a while.” Gary eventually gave up trying to protect his little men pride.

“Awwww. Our oppa is really sad to leave us…”

She leaned forward and gave him another big hug.

“Well, I really owed it to Running Man…without the members and the staff, I am nobody today. A lot of nice memories just rushed in, and so my manly tears just fell.”

Ji Hyo broke off the hug and cupped his sad face in her delicate hands. “It’s okay to hide in front of the cameras but never hide in front of me. Okay?”

“Arasso.” He smiled back.

“You can always come back as a guest! Maybe our PD will keep calling you!”

“Well I don’t mind, as long as I am no longer the fixed member…”

“Oppa…I-I know you’re doing this for us...” She said, looking down, feeling guilty.

Seeing her like this, Gary dropped his chopsticks and grabbed her hands. He caressed it and made her look up at him.

“Ji Hyo-yah. I don’t know what’s in store for our future, but rest assured that I won’t regret it. Because I know I have to make an effort for us. For us to happen.”

“I know it’s a big sacrifice for us...” She trailed off.

“Well, I am going to see everyone often too! It’s not like I am not seeing the others anymore again. Most importantly, it’s us. Plus I get to focus more on my music now.”

“Really? Cause sometimes I was thinking maybe I should be the one to—”

“Shhh. You’re the ace of the show. You have to be there. The fans may be sad, but they won’t know what’s in store for them.” He chuckled slightly and pinched slightly on Ji Hyo’s nose. She just smiled back faintly.

Ji Hyo finally felt much better, despite being in daze when Gary initially mentioned this to her. They argued a bit on his decision, but she knew his character. Once he set his heart on it, he’ll achieve it. So from now on, she’ll support her as the woman behind him, to support his music; his life.

They chatted about the episode earlier as they ate the supper. Then Gary browsed through the articles and came across Ji Hyo’s press conference of her latest drama.

“MC ended?” Gary smiled mischievously while checking out Ji Hyo’s expression. She looked up from her phone, with a mong look.

“Of course. Because it must end so that we—can.…” Ji Hyo trailed away.

“We can….?” Gary wanted to hear from her. “Finish your sentence.”

“Well—theoretically we are together off screen but—Yah!” Ji Hyo hit Gary slightly on his shoulder.

“I just wanted to hear from you…”

“Nope. Not going to say it.” She persisted.

“Yah~~~” Gary aegyo-ed.

*

It was already 1am in the morning when they finished the supper. Together they cleaned the table and made themselves comfortable at the couch in front of the TV that he had in another room. She has promised him to watch her drama’s first episode together; ‘This Week, My Wife Is Having An Affair’.

“Ji Hyo-yah you’re so pretty! Are you also going to be the pretty and intelligent omma to my child in the future?”

“Yah! Who says I am going to marry you?”

“You will! I will make you fall deeper in me.” He said confidently.

“Stop your nonsense.” Ji Hyo just snuggled in the cuddle and continued watching.

As they watched, Gary was so engrossed in the drama and didn’t realised that she has fallen asleep in his arms.

“Daebak story! Ji Hyo-yah is that guy in the car Michael? You’re being so affectionate with him…he could not be someone from the office right? If not, who’s that?”

Silence.

He turned to the lady in his arms and Ji Hyo was already fast asleep. Instead of waking her up, he took the time to go through her face. Because of their busy schedule, he never really has the chance to see her so up-close, when she is sleeping so soundly.

She didn’t have any make up on, just her usual bare face, but that’s the best look that he like about her. So simple, so down to earth, just like the lyrics to his song that he released last year with her in mind; Your Scent. Not to mention her full, luscious lips is the one that always makes him weak especially she pouts and aegyo. Why is he so lucky to have such a beautiful and charming lady in his arm? Sometimes he felt that he was too lucky.

“Ji Hyo-yah,” He nudged her slowly. “Let’s get you home okay?”

“Huh its over?” She winched and sat up straight while rubbing her eyes.

“Yes, you missed it.”

“It’s okay.  Actually I’ve already watched the 1st episode with the team.”

“Then you still watch it with me? “

“Because I promised you to watch it together.” She smiled with her sleepy eyes and yawns.

It is little things like this that made him fell in love with her so deep.

“Aigoo…babo-yah…You should have slept instead of accompanying me.” He tighten the cuddle and kissed her on her left cheek. “It’s really late now, I’ll send you back home okay?”

“I don’t have schedule tomorrow…” She mumbled softly, looking at him.

“Arasso. Then get to the bed and sleep?”

“Carry me.”

Without hesitation, Gary got up from the couch, hands stretched out ready to carry her.

“Oppa! I am just joking. I can walk to the room myself.”

“I better do it more often, otherwise there may be other guys carrying you in the future filming.” He just sweep her up in a bridal style and carried her in his strong arms. Ji Hyo laughed out loud, but just let him do it.

“I wonder will there be anyone like you..? In the future filming…”

“Didn’t you always like young and handsome strong idols?”

“On Monday you’re most handsome. Nobody can deny that.”

“Wow it has been a while…since I heard this.” They reached the other room and he laid her down gently on the single bed that he has. On days he worked too long in the studio, he’ll just spent the night there. “Just on Monday now?” He said, looking at her.

Ji Hyo just smiled back at his words, a little speechless.

“Kang Gary is the best looking person for Song Ji Hyo. Not just on Mondays, but everyday.”

Gary smiled proudly.

“Is that okay? Satisfied?”

“That’s more like it.” He pulled the blanket over her. “Yah, get some rest. You’ve cried a lot earlier.”

“Arasso.”

Gary turned around to turn off the light.

“Yah Kang Gary. You are not coming to bed yet?”

“I’ll wash up and come. You sleep first.”

“Arasso.”

“Good night. OH wait. The last part of Episode 1…the guy in the car…is that the Michael?”

Ji Hyo chuckled out loud at his sudden question about the drama. “Well, I can’t give you spoiler. Please continue to watch to find out.”

“Not even to me?”

“Nope.” She said coolly with her eyes already shut tight.

“Arasso. Good night.”

After taking a quick shower, he changed into something more comfortable. He slides in the bed with her who already soundly asleep. Gently he reached out to her and cuddled her by the waist.

Saranghaeyo Song Ji Hyo.

Every ending is the new beginning. 

=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*=*

[Author's Note]

There you have it! Again, because of Monday Couple, I made a comeback to writing! Presenting to you my delusional thought about them. I just want to live in my own fantasy about them as their fans.

Hope you guys enjoyed it! 

Cheers till we see each other again~ 

Sincerely,

Angela 

Her Diary - Part 4

Part 4

Ji Hyo was flipping through some documents when there was a knock on the door. Before she could answer, the door swings open.

“Yuri? Why did you come back to the office?”

“We drove by after dinner and saw the lights are still on. So I bet you must be still here.”

“Yea, I am just going to finish up some stuff here…” Her eyes returned to the lengthy words on her desk. “You can just go back, I am fine here.” She gave a smile.

Yuri gave a sigh as she looked at her wristwatch “Unnie. It’s almost 7pm. Are you planning to stay here for the night?”

Ji Hyo looked up to the concerned Yuri. She let go of the pen that she was holding. “Well, I just don't feel like going home. I am going to face the empty walls only.”

“Are you really feeling fine?” Yuri walked beside Ji Hyo and made her looked at her.

Ji Hyo’s eyes quickly gave away. She knew what Yuri was talking about. “I really appreciate your concerns...but yea I am holding well. It’s just...”

“It’s just..?”

“I miss her so much today.”

Yuri sat down in front of her desk. She reached out for her hand and caress them. “Unnie....you have to let her go...if not you can try fighting for her. I know you told me..after she left, you guys never really talk it out...”

Ji Hyo nodded regretfully.

“Perhaps...give her a call. Tell her that you still misses her. Let her know that you still cares about her. If she has really moved on, so you must move on too. At least you have given your shot and tried your best. No point mopping over her. Life must go on. You need to have your own life.”

Ji Hyo listen attentively. Yes, Yuri is right. At least she must give her last shot. No point lingering over someone that has long moved on.

“Maybe I will send her a message.”

Yuri just smiled. “I hope you really do. You know I really see you like my big sister. I don’t wish to see you being alone and sad like this. You need happiness, and you deserve someone better. Someone that really willing to walk this path with you.”

*

“Hi...

It’s been a while...since we have contacted each other.. But I chose to write this letter to you. Hopefully it reaches you, to the right one. I hope you have not change your address. Maybe I am a coward that I chose to write to you instead of calling or messaging you. It’s just that I want to give myself more time, before getting an answer from you. 

I am not sure about you but things between us...I always feel that there’s no closure. You left so suddenly and I had no courage to go over to find you. It was partially my fault for leaving our relationship that way. The truth is, I still can’t get over you. I still misses the time we spent together, the night we spent cooking and playing a fool with each other. And I miss your coffee...I have stopped drinking them since. Are you still making them?

 You’re the one that really changed my life. You made me felt loved, cherished and gave me a purpose of striving hard to give us a family. You are all I needed.

 If it’s really the Hebe that I have loved and still do, please write back to me. At least I need an answer from you. No matter good or bad, I’ll accept it. I am still staying at the same place. 

I just want to know…have you ever loved me? Or was I just an experiment?

 I am waiting. 

JH” 

A drop of tears wets the letter. Hebe wiped away the tears of guilt that rolled down her cheeks. She quickly folds the letter away as her father steps into her room.

“What’s wrong, daughter? It’s dinner time.”

“I am not hungry, you guys go ahead.” Hebe replied coldly and hushed him out of the room.

Ever since her dad found out about her relationship with Ji Hyo few years ago, she has been acting cold towards her father. The family ties was estranged and quiet. Hebe always cooped up in her room after work, other than meal times.

Hebe closed the door hardly behind her. She quickly broke down into tears. All their wonderful sweet moments started flooding her mind. Ji Hyo’s laughter and mong face keep flashing her mind. She cried harder.

She realized how much she missed her. Truthfully, Hebe has not be with anyone ever since she came back from Korea. She just indulged herself in work, to keep her mind off Ji Hyo. Her mother kept introducing some bachelor to her, she just kept pushing them away. And through her perseverance, she has finally made name out of herself in the local café world as she opened her first café.

She cried herself to sleep that night.

*

It was ten in the morning when her mum knocked on the door. “Hebe! Still sleeping? Are you feeling okay?”

Usually by nine, Hebe would have made her way out of the house to prepare for the opening of the shop. It was little weird that her room was quiet.

“Yesterday I saw her crying in her room.”

“What?! And now you’re only saying it?” Hebe’s worried mum frantically looking for the room key in the kitchen.

When they opened the door, they were surprised to see an empty room. “She’s not home?”

“Perhaps she went out earlier today.”

They noticed a piece of paper on the dressing table.”

“I have closed the shop for a week. Please don’t look for me. I have made a decision, to look for my other happiness.”

Hebe’s mum hand trembled as she read the letter. “She went away…to look for her...”

*

She sat at in the departure hall, staring blankly with her hand clutching tight on her letter. Her mind floated away.

[Flashback]

“Hey babe...How’s class today?”

Ji Hyo greeted Hebe who just walked into the house. She gave her a tight hug around her neck. Hebe briefly smiled and hugged back.

Ji Hyo could sense something wrong and was about to break off the hug but was stopped by Hebe. “Can we just stay like this for a while?” She said softly.

JI Hyo’s heart twitch hearing her said that. “What happen babe?” She raised her hand and brush her head slightly. “Take your time to talk it out...”

Hebe tighten her hug around Ji Hyo’s waist. “My dad....”

Ji Hyo’s heart sank. “He knew about us?”

Hebe nodded.

“He saw us...that day in Myeongdong street.”

Ji Hyo’s heart sank further as she tightens the grip around Hebe. She expected this and always thought she is prepared but the moment it came, she never knew that it felt like her world came crushing down.

“It’s okay, as long as we are in this together. Don’t worry I am here with you.”

She planted a soft kiss on her side of her head.

“We won’t be separated right?” Hebe said softly.

“I will not leave you until you leave me.”

[End of Flashback]

It was how it started. On the day after their Myeongdong date, Hebe went home to visit her father. She came home with her father sitting in the living room. It was unusual to see him sitting quietly, as usually he’ll be either watching the television or making dinner.  

[Flashback]

“Dad how are you?” Hebe chirped as she entered the house. “How’s your day?”

“I saw you today in Myeongdong?”

“Oh y-you did?”

“Yes, I had some errand to do around that area, so I passed by Myeongdong.”

“Oh...have you eaten dinner?”

“Are you dating someone?”

“E-eh? N-No I didn’t. T-that was just my friend. Her name is Ji Hyo. I’ll bring her over for a dinner one day.”

“Do you behave so intimately with your friend in the public?”

“Dad you’re thinking too much. We are just very good friends. We always go out for shopping.”

“Am I?”

“You haven’t eaten right? Me neither. I-I will prepare dinner for us. Please wait a while.” She said and went into the kitchen, ignoring his father’s question.

“You know our Chinese tradition can’t accept things that’s unusual right?” He said suddenly.

Hebe stopped working at the bunch of tomatoes.

“Dad, what are you trying to say?”

“You heard me. You can stop making dinner. I don’t feel well. I am going to rest now.” Hebe’s dad finished his words with a loud thud of the closing of his bedroom door.

Hebe just stood there, shocked with his dad’s word.

***

Her Diary - Part 3

[[[Part 3]]]

[Flashback]

Sent to: Ji Hyo Unnie   Time: 4.13pm

Hey, are you sick? I passed by your office and I thought of visiting you but you’re not in. I called you but you didn't pick up. Is everything fine? Call me as soon as you see this kay? Hugs.

Hebe kept looking at her sent message since the afternoon. It was past Ji Hyo’s working hour but she did not get any reply or calls from Ji Hyo. She got worried and decided to pay her visit at her house.

"YAHH! UNNIE!" Hebe shouted for the umpteen times on her door. She tried calling again but to no avail. Her phone was turned off and she started to get annoyed at the beeping tone that answers her every time.

She gave a sigh and decided to enter her house on her own as she knows the number combinations to the lock pad.

After keying in the combination, she entered the house and was greeted by the empty living room. She went straight to her bedroom and found Ji Hyo lying on the bed in the dark.

She turned on the side table lamp and saw Ji Hyo’s pale face.

"Unnie!"

She gently caresses her forehead. It was hot and she could see beads of cold sweat trickling down. She looked to her side table by the bed and saw anti-emetic pills.

She must have eaten something wrong.

"Unnie, how are you feeling?” Hebe asked softly in a worried tone. “Can you hear my voice?" She patted her cheek gently.

Ji Hyo’s eyes slowly open and she was surprised to see Hebe standing by her bedside.

"…Y-you came..." Ji Hyo spoke weakly. "I-I think I ate something wrong...I—...vomiting….whole day..." She barely could finish her sentence.

Hearing this, Hebe remembered a traditional Chinese remedy for food poisoning that her mum fed her when she was younger. She drove to the nearest mart to get some dried shitake mushroom. From what she knew feeding boiled mushroom water can cure food poisoning.

She came back and quickly prepared the medication. While waiting for the mushrooms to boil, she stayed by her bed. Using a warm towel, she wiped away Ji Hyo’s cold sweat and made sure she’s hydrated by giving her small scoops of water. As soon as the mushroom water is done, she brought them over to Ji Hyo.

"W-What is this..?"

Hebe helped Ji Hyo up and made her lean against the head of the bed frame.

"This is boiled mushroom water. It's going to helped to clear your stomach."

"But it smells weird..." Ji Hyo whined looking at the clear brownish liquid. Her forehead frowned as Hebe gave her a mouthful.

"Trust me…It's good for your body and it will make you vomit out all the bad stuff...I know it may taste bad but be a good girl okay?" She hushed. Hebe reached out Ji Hyo’s hand and patted her hair.

Obediently, Ji Hyo drank all that Hebe fed her. It was not something tasty but she drank for the sake of Hebe.

"And you'll feel like vomiting very soon…so be prepared."

Hebe helped Ji Hyo slowly to the toilet and sat by the toilet bowl with her.

"You sure you going to stay here? It’s not a pretty scene." Ji Hyo laughed weakly. “Now I’m a bit embarrassed for you to see me in this state.” Ji Hyo had a messy bun tight up, top with a loose baggy shirt and pants and a worn out face.

"What are you saying? Of course I'll stay by your side, silly." She flashed out a warm smile.

As expected, after drinking the boiled water, Ji Hyo vomits out everything. It was painful for Hebe to watch how Ji Hyo struggles to keep up with the vomit reflex. Ji Hyo literally felt like she’s going to vomit out her entire system.

Hebe could only brush her hand up and down her back, gently soothing her back. "Everything is going to be fine..."

*

Ji Hyo opened her eyes and the sky is still dark. She does not know how long she has slept but she felt so much better. She charged her battery-dead phone and turned it on. It was 4am. There were 32 missed calls. 19 calls were from the company and the rest was from Hebe. She felt guilty immediately.

She must have really gotten worried for me.

Then she heard noises in the kitchen. She got up from bed and slowly walked out of the room. She was surprised to see Hebe moving about in the kitchen.

"Hey..." Ji Hyo called out.

Hebe turned as she heard Ji Hyo's weak voice. "You're up? How are you feeling?" Hebe let go of the task on hand and walked towards her. “You’re looking so much better.” She smiled.

Hebe reached for her forehead and used the other hand to touch her own forehead.

"I think your fever has subsides." She gave a smile. "Come, your stomach must be empty right now…I have cooked some porridge for you."

Hebe made Ji Hyo sit down on the dining chair. "I've made this as plain as possible...I know your upset tummy wouldn’t like anything oily right now." Hebe served her a bowl of chicken porridge.

Ji Hyo just watches Hebe talking and moving about silently. She was too touched to say anything.

“Why do you keep looking at me and not eating? Are you still feeling uncomfortable anywhere?” She reached out her hand and caress Ji Hyo’s cheek.

A smile spread across Ji Hyo’s face. “Because I think I am too lucky to have you as friend, to take care of me.”

Hebe giggles at the sudden confession. “I am glad you know that.” She said as she shifts her eyes towards the clock hanging on the wall. Hebe pushed the spoon onto Ji Hyo’s hand. “Quick, eat a little before you take a rest again.”

Just then, Ji Hyo then saw a small bandage on Hebe’s pinky. "What happened here? I don’t remember seeing it few days ago." She took her hand and gently caresses it.

"Oh…this” She took back her hand. “This is nothing, I accidentally scalded myself just now...it was not that bad... so don’t worry and quickly—"

“You’re injured because of me?…How can I not be worried?” She gave a worried and guilty look.

“Aww…” Hebe smiled gently. She reached out her hand and patted Ji Hyo’s head. “But now you’re patient yourself, that almost passed out due to dehydration….shouldn’t you get all the attention you need now?”

Ji Hyo can only smile. Instead of insisting of being worried at Hebe’s pinky, she should get herself fixed up so that Hebe can be at ease.

“Then…eat together with me?” Ji Hyo gave a sweet smile.

*

Ji Hyo blinks her eyes gently as she could feel the sun’s ray hitting on her. Her wall clock showed 11.00 am. She sat upright and reached for her phone. On the phone, there was a post it note.

Don’t freak out and hurry to work. I’ve applied leave for you today and told them about your condition. So just lay in bed and rest.                                                                            H.

 

 A smile spread across Ji Hyo’s face. How can someone be so sweet? A friend in need is a friend indeed. She might have been dead if not for her. And thankfully for her attentive care, she felt so much better.

She looked over to her side on her double bed and there was Hebe sleeping peacefully. Addition to the sun’s ray coming from the window, it makes her hair shines; she was a sleeping beauty. Unknowingly, Ji Hyo reached out her hand and gently brushed Hebe’s hair behind her ear to reveal more of her delicate face.

I could wake up to this forever.

Eyebrows lightly drawn together, her lips pursed. This was her first time watching Hebe sleeps. Hebe used to overnight at her place but she never looked at her that way before. She can’t really help how she’s feeling, and suddenly she has this strong urge. To kiss her.

In the end she gives in to her urges, hunching over just to kiss Hebe lightly on the forehead.

It felt so wrong yet it felt so right at the same time.

The girl stirs, eyebrows furrowing and arms stretching out above her before she opens her eyes, slowly. She saw Ji Hyo hovering above her, eyes widened. The startled Ji Hyo retracts and sat up right.

“Unnie…you’re awake…” She said, half yawning. “Were you trying to play a prank on me?” She sat up and frowns her eyes at Ji Hyo. “What are you doing so close up to my face?”

“W-When did I?” The older one looks away afraid to be caught by her eyes, because she’s bad in lying. “I’m washing up.” She said about to crawl out of bed.

Before she successfully got out of the bed, Hebe pulled her back in and made her sit on the bed. She scooted closer to Ji Hyo and held her hands.  

“Are you feeling better? Still feeling pain around this area?” She reached out her hand and touched her abs area, just under her bosom. She froze at the sudden intimacy. She prayed that her nervousness didn’t show on her face.

Ji Hyo shook her head to her question. A smile spread across Hebe’s face. “My mum’s method is really working. Your face yesterday really freaks me out.”

“I’m sorry for making you worry….” Ji Hyo said quietly. The other girl just plops back to the bed, making herself comfortable on the bed. “Then now it’s time for you to serve me….lunch. While I sleep.” She ends her sentence with a silly giggle.

“Of course. I’ll wake you up when the food is ready.” She tucked Hebe under the blanket and pulled the curtain together to make the room dimmer for a better sleep.

In the washroom, Ji Hyo thought her heart almost beat out of her system. Other than the sound of the water flowing in the basin, she can hear her heart thumping so loudly. What did she just done? Did she notice it? She didn’t want to lose a close friend like her; neither can she contain her feelings for her.

[End of Flashback]

“Ahhh-chooo!!” Ji Hyo sneezed loudly. She reached out for the box of tissue and grabbed a few tissues at once. Her running nose has been bothering her the whole morning. The weather has turn cold, as the spring season has started.

Yuri came knocking on the door and brought a cup of hot ginger tea. “Unnie, have some of this….”

“Oh dear, thanks Yuri….AH ChOOO!!!”

“Unnie, you’re really in a bad shape…you sure you don’t want to get home to get some rest?” Yuri said with a concern.

“It’s okay….I’m going to be alone back home anyway… AHHH CHooOO!!! At least I have you here….” Ji Hyo said with a cheeky smile. “You’re my best secretary!”

“You’re welcome….but…”

“But?”

“You’re not going to fall in love with me right?” Yuri said casually.

Ji Hyo almost spit out the hot ginger tea. Her eyes dart up to Yuri’s face.

“Unnie I was just joking!”

Yuri knew about Ji Hyo; that she likes girls, to be precise, in love with that girl. She found out accidentally when she saw the pic of them on Ji Hyo’s phone’s homescreen.

Even though they are no longer together, Yuri knows that Ji Hyo still can’t forget about her. That’s why she’s single but not available.

Entry: #221  Time: 11.27pm  Date: 24/11/14

"Hi,

No matter how busy I am, you always cross my mind when I’m sick. How I wished you were here with me. Are you wearing thick enough? Don’t catch cold.

JH." 

Her Diary - Part 2

[[[Part 2]]]

That's where she met her.

That girl that made her feels happiness and sense of belongingness.

The girl she never expected to be so attracted and attached to.

The girl she met in work.

Hebe Tien came to the office as a temporary secretary for Ji Hyo. She is a Taiwanese that has stayed in South Korea for a half a decade because her father was newly allocated there for work purposes. She was new but she was hardworking and willing to learn. She was three years younger than Ji Hyo and could speak fluent Korean.  Her chestnut brown hair is straight and long, it reaches her chest. She also has a dark brown eyes and a sweet smile that made Ji Hyo took a second glance at her the moment she walked in. To be honest, she was dazzled by her smile. It's warm and friendly.

Hebe only came to work for 4 weeks because Ji Hyo's previous permanent secretary was on a maternity leave. It was short collaboration but their friendship quickly grows. They moved to places together, eat together, attend meetings together and for a few occasions, Hebe stayed over Ji Hyo’s house after long girls’ talks. Hebe was her only friend that she felt comfortable with.

For three times a week, Hebe takes night classes for barista course. Hebe loves the fragrance of the coffee but sadly she can't drink them because of her sensitive stomach. After knowing Ji Hyo loves coffee, Ji Hyo became Hebe's target to test her coffee skills.

Even after Hebe stopped working for Ji Hyo, they continue contacting each other and frequently went to Hebe's class after her work.

[Two and half years ago]

In her favourite dark green checkered shirt, Hebe brought over a cup of hot latte to Ji Hyo who was sitting at one of the tables. She tucked the fallen hair to the back of the ear and pulled a chair beside Ji Hyo.

“Freshly made… just for Song Ji Hyo.” She chirped, complemented with an eye smile.

“Thank you…” Ji Hyo smiled back warmly. “I was waiting for this the whole day in the office.”

Hebe's eyes glimmered as she watches Ji Hyo took a sip of the freshly brewed coffee. "How was it?" No doubt she was eager.

"Mmmm…” Ji Hyo closes her eyes as she savours the coffee. “You're really improving!" She smiled from ear to ear. "But there's too much foam this time.”  Ji Hyo whined as she reached out for a tissue to wipe away the foam stains on her upper lip.

“Let me...” With her right thumb, Hebe gently wiped it away. She gave out a smile as she wiped her hand cleaned.

Shocked by the sudden gesture, Ji Hyo bit her lower lip and letting down a shy smile, cheeks reddened. Ji Hyo could felt an intensifying electric shock down her back.

"Why? What’s so funny?" Once again Hebe reached out her hand and gently caresses Ji Hyo's red cheek with her thumb.

Ji Hyo gives out a shy smile again hearing Hebe’s response. She then brushed her long fringe back. “Nothing…It’s just...”

It was at that moment she realised she started to develop feelings for Hebe. She has been into relationship before, so she knew exactly how it feels to fall in love with someone. The adrenaline rush feeling.

"It was the coffee...I think." Ji Hyo lied. "Well, why I don't see any other student's this time?" She looked around the empty classroom. Usually there are four other students around, but today there are only two of them.

"Actually there was no class today because our teacher is sick…but I still came…with permission of course." Hebe smiled cheekily.

“Such a hardworking girl! I would have spent mine on sleeping!” Her words made both cracked into laughter.

"Because….” Hebe’s lips forming a pout. “I’m still far behind in the class so I thought I might want to practice more...." Her voice trailed away slowly.

“Awww….you’re improving! Don’t be too hard on yourself okay?” Ji Hyo said and pinched Hebe’s nose lightly. “You’re really good with aegyo, do you know that?” She laughs at Hebe who’s playing along. “Honestly when I first know you I wouldn’t have guess you will be someone with so much of aegyo.”

“I only do that to people I’m close with….People used to say that I’m an Ice Princess.” She lets out a laugh.

“That’s because they are not lucky enough to get to know you better!”

“So you think you’re the lucky one?”

Ji Hyo nodded confidently. “You’re a very special girl” She said suddenly as she glances at her. “I wonder who will be the lucky guy…” Her voice trailed off.

“Guy?” Hebe ponders. “Honestly….I have been thinking about this quite a few times…”

“About?” Ji Hyo questions, with her eyebrows coming together.

Hebe heaves a sigh and drops her head low. “It’s nothing...maybe I’ll tell you next time...”

“What’s bothering you?” Ji Hyo asked with concern.

Hebe raised her head and plops her head onto the table. “This is so frustrating….but I’m not ready to share yet.” She looks up with a pout at the concerned girl sitting right beside her.

“You sound so suspicious...” She shook her head at the self-contradicting girl. Then Ji Hyo remembered the stuff she just brought along. “Maybe this will cheer you up.” 

Ji Hyo turned to her right and took a red paper bag. She then passed it to Hebe.

“I saw this thing online…and thought you’ll like it. So I bought it for you.”

“For me?” Hebe said in an excited tone. Her hands dived in and took out a cloth. With a flip of the hand, she unravels a plain apple green apron with a cute cartoon elephant in front of it.

Hebe’s face lights up almost immediately. She has always love elephants and green was her favourite colour.

“OMG! This is so cute!”

Ji Hyo’s smiles widely too seeing Hebe’s excited face. “I knew you’ll like it the moment I saw this on the net.”

“Thank you!” Hebe jumps a little and hugged Ji Hyo around her neck. “Next time I’ll wear these when I come here for classes.”

Ji Hyo was a little overwhelmed because it was the first time they are being so close that she could smell her hair scent. It was mixture of grapefruit, green almond and hints of lily flower scent. It was refreshing and utterly addictive. Ji Hyo never looked at Hebe the same way again.

She officially has a crush on her best friend.

*

[Flashback]

“我…喜--欢--妳.”  Hebe said clearly, in Mandarin with her beautiful Taiwanese accent.

Ji Hyo heard these words somewhere before. It must be from the Chinese drama that she used to watch when she was younger. She frowns as her brain tries to registers what Hebe is trying to say.

Hebe reached out her arms and cupped Ji Hyo’s face. The cold from the winter suddenly just disappears as she could only feel the warmth from Hebe’s hand. It was snowing lightly that night, and the duos were spending their Christmas eve night together, sipping on hot tea in the balcony enjoying the city view covered with snows.

Hebe’s brown eyes gaze warmly at Ji Hyo. She thought if she can hold the gaze long enough, Ji Hyo will see how sincere she meant.

“I like you.” Hebe repeats, this time in Korean.

Ji Hyo looks at her, shocked eyes studying her face.

“W-What?” It was the first thing that escaped her mouth from the sudden confession, on a Christmas Eve. 

It’s not a joke, silly.

“I mean it, Song Ji Hyo.” Hebe mutters. “I like you. I like to be around you, talk to you, care for you and be there for you…”

Her gaze are still intense, never moved an inch away from Ji Hyo’s.

“I struggled within myself for a long time….before I came out with this conclusion…” She added as she looked down. “I have fallen in love with you.” She looked up again with a smile. Her final statement concludes all.

Ji Hyo expression hardens at the words from her.

She was too shock and her expressionless face says it clearly. She never sees this coming - Hebe confessing to her. It never crossed her mind at all. She thought it was only one sided, not the other way round.

Silence hangs over them, not an awkward one but just a still quiet. Muffled Christmas carols could be heard from the living room and decorative lights along the rail lights up the balcony that adds to the atmosphere. Ji Hyo wants to say something, but not sure what to say. 

Hebe could feel her heart beating awfully loud as seconds past, ready to burst through her ribs.

“I…you know—I” Ji Hyo finally spoke. She raised her own hands to her face to hold Hebe’s. She then interlocked her fingers with hers. “I’ve been dreaming to hear this from you.”

Her reply made Hebe‘s nervous face break into a smile; smile of relief to hear the answer that she was expecting.

Ji Hyo leans forward in the creaking rattan armchair and hugs Hebe around her neck tightly.

“I love you too.”

[End of Flashback]

She jolted up in the dimly-lighted living room. In the lonely Christmas eve, she dreamt about their past again. The sky outside the window was dark and it was snowing strong that night. The corn tea she brewed hours ago has gone really cold, almost iced. Christmas movies from the plasma TV was still showing right in front of her.

It was the first Christmas without her.

They broke up after over 18 months of relationship after it was being found out by Hebe’s father. The pressure from her dad was so overwhelming that both had no choice but to go own separate ways. Hebe was she was forced back to Taiwan by her family.

The first few weeks were unbearable. She had to fight off the urges for a few occasions to call her because she knew that calling her may worsens Hebe’s situation in her family. But neither did she receive any calls or messages from her. Perhaps it was just something not meant to be, she wonders sometimes. However, it became a habit of Ji Hyo to write in the green diary whenever she thinks about her.

Ji Hyo drops her head and buries her head between her folded leg.

She thought work could make her forget about her. She thought she could do it, but every little detail in her life reminds her about Hebe. Reluctantly she grabbed the notebook for another entry.

Entry: #225   Time: 11.33 pm   Date: 24/12/14

It’s Christmas Eve again…Two years ago it was once the best day of my life. How are you? Are you celebrating with your friends?

If I could ask you one question again, did I ever cross your mind like you did?

IMY...so much.

JH.

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