Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

When you are in your junior year of high school, life seems great. You've been doing this for quite a while, you get the hang of it. Teachers know you, your classmates know you. If you're lucky enough, being social is no problem, you get good grades, you know what you want and your only worry is doing well so you can go to a good college.

Son Chaeyoung falls into that category. She finds life just wonderful. And she is sure everything is going to be okay as long as is perfectly planned by her. And as long as she is with her best friend. It really can't be another way.

Nothing can't be another way, or else, Chaeyoung might lose it. She carefully and thoroughly plans and takes into consideration every detail. You really can't catch her unprepared.

"Mashed potatoes." The sound of the tray made Chaeyoung look up. "I hate mashed potatoes, you can have it."

"I won't have it, Dahyun, you need to eat."

"Gosh, but you brought me something, didn't you," Dahyun asked pealing her orange, the only thing she found edible in that lunch tray.

Chaeyoung sighed and reached for her backpack. It was Wednesday. She knew it was mashed potatoes' day. Actually, everyone should know, yet everyone acted surprised every day. Did no one read schedules? She knew Dahyun hated them. She always packed her a sandwich.

"Here, I didn't have time to cut the edges this time."

"It's okay, I'm a grown-up, you know."

'no, I don't' Chaeyoung thought. her best friend sure acted like one whenever it was convenient. "Sure."

"Ah, I love lunchtime," Dahyun chewed energetically on her sandwich. "It means only a few more hours to go home."

"You have debate team," Chaeyoung reminded her like it was so obvious and she sure was used to reminding her every Wednesday and Thursday.

"Fudge, right, okay," Dahyun nodded. "But then... Oh, we have to study, right?"

"Yeah," Chaeyoung pouted. "I really need to, we must do well tomorrow, it's an all-nighter."

"Well, I like those if I'm with you."

Chaeyoung smiled wide. "Great, I'll have everything ready for when you get there."

"I know you will."

And lunchtime passed. They went to their last classes and it was time to go. Usually, Chaeyoung would wait for Dahyun, but this time she went straight home to have everything nice and comfortable for their study session. Chaeyoung guessed it was better to use her room.

You see, their town was a rather small town and probably everyone knew each other. The Kims and the Sons sure did. Chaeyoung and Dahyun had been friends since before they could walk. Their families shared many holidays and had been good friends for years. Now, Dahyun's family, specifically her dad, had to go away for some time for his job. Naturally, her daughter needed to move out with them, but Chaeyoung, who has her whole life planned, of course, couldn't let that happen. Consequently, both their parents came to an agreement and Dahyun was living with her until graduation.

It was no trouble. They basically lived together anyway. And there was an extra room at Chaeyoung's place given her brother was studying abroad. At first Dahyun kind of hated feeling like a burden but then everyone reassured her she wasn't, at all, and now she really is a burden only for Chaeyoung, but in a good way, Chaeyoung loves taking care of her. Just small things, like her Wednesday sandwiches or being her personal agenda, which, honestly, Chaeyoung was for everyone around her.

If it weren't for Dahyun, Chaeyoung's best friend could be easily her phone by how she is always taking notes and using her calendar all the time. What had her calendar for tomorrow? They had a physic test, they both needed to study being focused for that one. Both had good grades, Chaeyoung actually had the best one in their course, but she wouldn't make a big deal out of it, she just really liked to have everything organized which granted her the right amount of time to study and it was working. See? She has everything under control.

Chaeyoung prepared her worksheets and notes with all the concepts and formulas for her and Dahyun, as well as two calculators, all the pens needed, their books and some fruit snacks. She left at hand hot chocolate for the night. She had said it was going to take them the whole night, but she had checked better the syllabus and they would probably be sleeping before 2 am. She was glad because good students needed a good sleep, right? Exercise, eat healthy, Chaeyoung knew all about it.

"How was it?"

"It was great, I loved today's argument," Dahyun left her things in her room as she walked followed by her friend. "So, I'll take a shower and then we can work on our formulas."

"Awesome," Chaeyoung smiled seeing Dahyun so happy. The girl took a towel and disappeared for the bathroom leaving Chaeyoung in the hallway, where their rooms were in front of the other on the second floor.

She didn't take long and soon enough their study session started, everything according to plan. Dahyun was actually doing better than Chaeyoung that's why she knew they needed to study, they always helped each other. After hours, they took a break to have dinner downstairs with Chaeyoung's parents and then they kept going.

"You always fix us fruit," Dahyun complained. "I want some sweets."

"You'll hurt your stomach."

"No," she whined rolling to be closer to Chaeyoung. They had abandoned their desk to study with a mess of papers on the floor. It was oddly comfortable. "I know you have some..." Dahyun got super close and talked in Chaeyoung's neck, "Come on."

Chaeyoung laughed softly at her and got up, walked to her nightstand and in one of the drawers she took out one of her candies from her secret emergency stash. Skittles.

"Here," she said getting comfortable on the floor again, Dahyun was on her back, Chaeyoung got on her side using one arm for support. "You'll buy a replacement."

"Thank you!" Dahyun gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and opened her candy excitedly. Once she ate a handful, she sighed. "We'll do great," she said. "You'll do great, we studied a lot."

"I hope so." Chaeyoung kept watching her as she ate.

"No, but really," Dahyun turned around to face her, "we could have done great even without studying now."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean that we're smart and... maybe we spent too much time studying, don't you think?"

Chaeyoung didn't think so, she knew they studied just the right amount. But she allowed her friend to elaborate more. "Is there something you would rather do?"

This time Dahyun took a minute before answering. Chaeyoung felt the atmosphere got serious. "We do have friends," she started. Chaeyoung nodded, they weren't outcasts, "we always have a good time, we do great with school and you exercise a lot, I mean, you have a body to die for—"

"Dahyun," Chaeyoung interrupted her. Having her or anyone talking about her body made her self-conscious. "What's your point?"

"My point is... we are lacking one thing only."

Chaeyoung was not slow, she knew by now to where Dahyun was going with this, the issue was, it made her nervous. Remember, she has everything planned.

"That is..."

"You're beautiful, anyone would love to date you, what better time than now?" And there it was.

"I'm okay, Dahyun, really," Chaeyoung chuckled. "I don't have time for such things."

"Oh, but you do, I know you do, you always know how to organize your agenda."

"Well... yeah," Chaeyoung mumbled. "But—"

"See?" Dahyun seemed excited. "It's the perfect time. Chaeng," she said looking at her, Chaeyoung could see stars in her eyes, "I want to be kissed."

Chaeyoung gulped. 'she wants to be kissed' She couldn't help but glance for a swift second at her friend's lips before catching her eyes again. "You want to be kissed."

"Yes! Don't you? When you told me you like girls I thought maybe you had someone in mind and I would get to see you dating but nothing's changed."

'right' Chaeyoung thought. She came out to Dahyun and her family a couple of years ago and it was great. She had, though, yet to date anyone. The problem was, there is a girl in mind. Chaeyoung has everything planned.

"I—"

"Then let's date!" Dahyun said eagerly and Chaeyoung's mouth dropped. "We'll go out more and find you a pretty girl and maybe I'll get to be kissed, you know? I don't even want to date, just, It's been years since my last kiss, I want to know more." And she had misinterpreted Dahyun's first sentence. 'of course' They should date... different people.

"I don't really care about that..." Lie.

"I'm sure once you get your first kiss, you'll see it differently."

"Maybe but I'm not worried about it." Lie.

"Still, we should try, get out there, maybe at the welcome dance—"

"Okay, yeah, yeah," Chaeyoung actually didn't want to hear more. "Maybe you're right."

So Dahyun kept smiling and eating her Skittles thinking about god knows what. Chaeyoung wondered if it was a nice gesture from Dahyun to not pressure her any further because she knew that her friend knew Chaeyoung thinks about everything, yet she let it slip how Chaeyoung had claimed to not be interested in that.

After that Dahyun fell asleep. Chaeyoung didn't have it in her to wake her up so she let her be in her bed. They don't mind sleeping together anyway. So after changing clothes, covering Dahyun and turning the lights off, she was ready to sleep in the little space she had left.

There was only one problem. Her heart wouldn't calm down. 'There is a girl in mind' Chaeyoung thought. 'there always has been' Dahyun's features were barely visible but she could make out in the dark her lips and nose and Chaeyoung fixed a strand of hair behind her ear delicately, leaving her hand on her head. 'She wants to be kissed'

That's how Chaeyoung found herself getting closer, being drawn by her best friend's familiar warmth. It has always been Dahyun. Chaeyoung knows falling for your best friend is a complicated territory but it's not like she could've helped it and she has, once again, everything planned. She has always wanted to tell Dahyun, she is just... waiting for the right moment.

Dahyun wanting to be kissed puts her in a tight spot. The right moment needed to come earlier than expected.

'She wants to be kissed' Chaeyoung thought one more time as she got really close to her lips. Her heart was beating like crazy and her stomach made a flip. She did care. She thought about it often. In her agenda there was time for it, as Dahyun had said, all the time Chaeyoung offered to her, how could she not see it? Maybe because it had always been like that. Then, what if she kisses her now? What if...

But it's wrong. So Chaeyoung quickly turned around to her own side and took little short breaths to calm herself down. If Dahyun wants to be kissed, she needs to change her plans now.

***

Thursday came by quickly. Almost as if her thoughts from the night before weren't a menace to her body clock but she could ignore them. She did her test without complications, handed in her five pages essay due next week, and finished with her student council's chores for the week too. Dahyun seemed completely normal around her, of course, and she reminded her once again of her extracurricular for that afternoon. For the second time, she didn't wait for her, instead went straight home.

Chaeyoung couldn't get it out of her head, because it had not been planned, all the things Dahyun expressed she wanted to experience, therefore, she needed to plan it. And she needed to hurry.

At school no one notice anything differently, she played her part, but once she got home, all her nervousness appeared at once. She needed to get it out of her head.

Leaving her school supplies, changing her school uniform for sweatpants and a sports bra, and filling a bottle with water, she was ready to get it together. She walked downstairs, they had a small basement with a rugged floor and black painted concrete walls. Chaeyoung had redecorated the space for her, it had been her project for several months. It was well illuminated, it had a grey sofabed, a red pouf, and stereo system sound around the room.

It was simple but the main element of the room got all the attention. A black and red punching bag hanging from a support beam. From a desk, Chaeyoung got out her cloth boxing wraps and wrapped her hands in no time. She took a sip of water and left the bottle on the desk, put on her red gloves, and without even realizing how upset she was, turned around to meet her punching bag immediately, throwing jab and cross punches with all her strength.

One punch after the other as fast as she could, which was a lot, she's been practicing for years now. After a full minute of her outburst, she stopped being coordinated and just threw every movement she could think of, hitting the bag with all her frustration, in her mind, the idea of anyone but her kissing Dahyun. She didn't even have a warm-up, she didn't put on her favorite compilation of Beethoven, Bach and Mozart, she didn't think. And when she finally got out of it, after some intense minutes of punching and punching, she took off her gloves with the help of her teeth and threw them on the sofa. She was ready.

It worked all the time. She ran upstairs to her bedroom, catching her breath she erased everything from her whiteboard and started writing everything again on the little spots of each day of the month drawn. Whenever she felt something wrong or changing, she needed to check her dates. Repeating them on her head, typing them on her phone again or, this time, on her board.

"Dentist appointment, Momo's presentation, Dahyun's haircut appointment, the—" Chaeyoung kept repeating and writing dates in deep focus. For most, she might look crazy or losing it, but she was actually calmed and feeling better each second. "Physic's test done, essay delivered— The dance."

Chaeyoung let out a deep breath and took a step back. That was it, clear as day. No one could kiss Dahyun. And for that, she needed to be honest. She needed to tell her how she felt. See? Problem, solution. If Dahyun wanted to be kissed now, she couldn't keep waiting for the right moment, she needed to create it.

Tomorrow. She was going to confess her feelings from years ago. Was she scared? Totally. But it had to be done. Did Dahyun even like girls? Chaeyoung refused to believe straight is the default, so if Dahyun has never come out as straight, then she has a chance still. Besides, the guy she kissed at camp years ago didn't count. Chaeyoung hated that story.

They were going together either way. Their school organized this dance around the beginning of the school year in order to make everyone feel comfortable. It was not mandatory to go or to be formal, but everyone goes and dresses up for the occasion. Dahyun and she had got their dresses a week ago and even if Dahyun had said they should experience, they still were going together, right? Her best friend knew better than to make last-minute changes with her.

But she needed to make sure, and Dahyun had arrived home just in time. Walking downstairs again, she saw her heading to the kitchen and called for her, "Dub!" The loving nickname left her mouth. "Tomorrow we—"

"What happened to you?" Dahyun frowned staring at Chaeyoung at the beginning of the stairs. 'oh' Chaeyoung took a moment to look at herself and realized she had not taken out the wraps of her hands, she still was only wearing her boxing attire and for whatever reason, she only had a sock on. Her hair that reached a little past her jawbone, for sure was messy and she definitely was all sweaty. It is not like Dahyun had not seen her before in her boxing clothes but it always made her shy, even more now.

"Nothing, just-- Uh, tomorrow," Chaeyoung ignored her burning cheeks, "we'll go together, right?"

"Of course," Dahyun smiled and Chaeyoung felt so much better. Her smile was just the most beautiful one. "Do you have time now?"

Chaeyoung made de involuntary movement of touching her leg, where her phone would be in her pockets, but she had left it in her room. "What time is it?"

"Around five and... Well, it's Thursday, I'm sure you're free, I just wanted to watch a movie, and then we can talk make up for tomorrow, deal?"

Chaeyoung smiled, of course, she had time for her. "Deal, I'll make you popcorn."

And so they changed clothes and had a regular afternoon, laughing, watching movies, throwing popcorn at each other, Chaeyoung couldn't ask for more. It was in those moments where she felt the most in love and it sure gave her the certainty of what she was about to do. How couldn't Dahyun feel something? The tiniest something. With all their cuddling, the hand holding, being together all the time, honestly, she had to have really bad luck to get rejected but then if she did, she was willing to wait. Chaeyoung has everything planned, of course rejection could be an outcome, but her friendship was too strong to be broken so easily and yes, she was willing to wait for Dahyun her whole life, after all, she felt completely hers and Dahyun, one way or another was Chaeyoung's, too. They fell asleep holding each other, like many past nights. Of course, they belonged to each other.

"I love you," Chaeyoung whispered. Just practicing, really.

"I love you too, Chaeng, sleep," Dahyun cuddled closer to her back. It was perfect.

***

7 am. Chaeyoung woke up with all her senses sharped. It was today, probably, the most important day of her life. Okay, yeah, she was exaggerating but it felt like it. Classes ended earlier today and started later. That gave her time to exercise a bit, shower calmly and prepare breakfast for her family, specially Dahyun. Her parents found her in the middle of whisking her pancake mix.

"Just a wonderful day, isn't it?" She answered once they had asked what was the occasion for her mood.

Dahyun seemed happy to wake up to pancakes and thanked Chaeyoung. They got ready for school, with their plaid skirts and ironed shirts. Dahyun almost forgot her blazer but Chaeyoung grabbed it for her. Once outside she hurried to her. "You forgot your blazer."

Dahyun turned and laughed at her, taking the fabric and passing it over her shoulders as she got closer to Chaeyoung. "And you," she said. "Still don't know how to tie a tie." She grabbed Chaeyoung's poorly executed knot and did it all again quite seamlessly. The proximity and the tender gesture, made Chaeyoung feel butterflies. "There."

"Thanks," she breathed out. "Let's go." They were on time. They always were on time.

The day passed rather slowly, even though they ended classes earlier, at home, both of them were excited about later. When the sun starts setting, they should get going. Until then, they were enduring a warm afternoon, which was unusual for the season. Chaeyoung took it as a good sign.

The thing was going to start, there were going to be couples doing an official organized dance, a waltz. And then after some words from the principal, everyone could do whatever, the music playing was going to be whatever the administration felt was trending and it would all be over in some hours.

She had planned to dance with Dahyun, dismissing their friends and just being honest. She didn't have flowers or anything of the sort, just her sincere words. The sun finally set, both girls were ready to go. Dahyun wore the most beautiful red dress, which went really well with her long loose silver hair, Chaeyoung was finding it hard not to stare. Although she was not far behind, with her shiny black hair and black short dress, she looked just as flawless.

It was informed to her not long after having arrived at the gym nicely decorated with a bunch of flowers and lights. "Son Chaeyoung you look stunning," Momo approached both girls and gave them hugs. Momo is their senior friend, but she always hangs out with younger people. Chaeyoung really enjoys her company despite her jokes about her obsession with her calendar. "Oh, my, red is your color!"

Dahyun chuckled and compliment her as well. Chaeyoung felt comfortable. They greeted more people, classmates and acquaintances, everyone looked stunning and soon enough it went just as Chaeyoung had expected. She couldn't deny that the more time she was inside that room, the more nervous she got. Was she making the right decision? Of course. There was no doubt, they were soulmates.

When the old man finished her speech and the lights changed, she knew it was time to start her mission.

"Here," she had left Dahyun's side to get drinks and hurried back to her, "Sparkling pink lemonade, what a drink, right?"

Dahyun took the green cup and laughed. "They do know how to innovate. Thanks, though, you're being extra nice today."

The innocent comment made Chaeyoung stand straighter but she played it cool. "Am I not always?"

"Well, right, you're the best." Dahyun took a sip of her pink lemonade and passed her arm over Chaeyoung's shoulders. The younger girl hated that. Yeah, she liked the contact, the proximity, but it made her feel small and you know, more friendly than what she had planned for tonight. She was going to change their position just when someone joined them.

"Pink lemonade! Where did you get that?"

"Tzuyu!" Dahyun let go of Chaeyoung to hug her late comer friend. "Wow."

"You're late," Chaeyoung stated the obvious. More obvious to her than how gorgeous Tzuyu looked in her yellow dress.

"I know, our car broke down, bummer," Tzuyu explained fast. "It's okay now, I'm here, what are you doing? Should we dance?"

'no' Chaeyoung thought just as Dahyun happily accepted. She watched them walked away with a sad smile. 'it's okay, there's time' She could have the next dance, preferably a slow song.

So she let a song pass and another one and she got more lemonade and when she finally felt it was time, she turned to locate her friends, only to not like what she was looking at one bit. Tzuyu walking away, leaving Dahyun to be held by some guy she had never seen before. Yes, the song had changed. Yes, it was slow. Why? It couldn't be. She started walking rapidly in that direction, ready to interrupt them no matter how embarrassing it might be. But the night was not helping and as Dahyun's figure seemed closer, cold liquid was felt all over her chest.

"What the-"

"Changie!" Momo's voice got to her ears. "I'm so sorry, you appeared out of nowhere." Momo used napkins in her attempt to dry Chaeyoung.

'Damn' Chaeyoung thought. She couldn't confess with some random guy dancing with her girl and she couldn't do it all sticky either.

Think. She had clothes in her locker, that would do.

"No worries, put an eye on Dahyun, be right back!" She ran fast to the inside of the building. She didn't even think why would she ask Momo to put an eye on their friend but oh, well. She needed to act fast. But her luck, her stupid locker wouldn't open. Was she forgetting her combination? That couldn't be, she knew her numbers.

"Five... Twenty eight—Gosh!" She couldn't deal with that right now. She took a step back and in a swift second threw a punch at the cold blue metal. It was a dumb idea. It hurt. It hurt a lot. But she barely had time to complain because it had worked. She put on her hoodie, ignoring her red knuckles, and ran back to the gym.

How long it took her? More than one song, apparently. She walked back to where Momo was, now with Tzuyu and couldn't believe her eyes. Dahyun had her head supported on the guy's shoulder. He was surrounding her waist. Chaeyoung felt sick.

She started heading to their direction but Momo held her wrist. "Where you going?"

"Can't you see them, I'm stopping them, obviously."

"Obviously?"

"Chaeng, let them dance, she looks happy," Tzuyu said.

Happy? Chaeyoung couldn't understand. She had never felt this jealous.

"But—"

"You always dance with her, come on, let someone else."

Maybe Momo was right. But it couldn't be, Dahyun was her half, not that guy. Not anyone. Chaeyoung started panicking. That was it. That was Dahyun exploring, it hurt. "One song," she accepted through gritted teeth. "Then I'm going."

What was the worst that could happen in a song. Momo and Tzuyu felt that was fair enough and disappeared somewhere else. Chaeyoung used the time to get her phone from where they had left their purses and returned to her spot. She grew nervous in her corner as the song advanced.

She started playing with her fingers, holding her breath, releasing it slowly, avoiding glances at Dahyun, drinking more and more lemonade she was going to have to go pee soon. She looked so nervous, yet everyone seemed to be doing their own thing perfectly fine.

She grabbed her phone with a hand on her hoodie pocket and tried to focus mumbling, "Dentist appointment, Momo's presentation, Dahyun's haircut appointment— Dahyun. Okay, okay, I'll go, Dahyunnie, I have— Dub, I need to tell you—"

"What are you doing?"

"Sorry?"

"You've been mumbling things, are you okay?"

Was she okay? That was a good question. She was okay, for sure. "Yes."

"Then what are you doing?"

"I'm gathering courage."

"Why?"

"Because—" Then Chaeyoung realized she had no idea who she was talking with, she had not stopped looking at Dahyun being all lovey-dovey. When she turned around to the curious voice, she saw this blonde senior raising her eyebrows at her. "Why are you asking?"

"I'm bored," she shrugged. Chaeyoung shook her head and focused once again on what was important. "Then... courage for what?"

"I'm going to confess my feelings." Chaeyoung saw no danger in being honest with a stranger.

"Oh, bold, who's the lucky guy?"

"Girl."

"Oh—" The unknown senior seemed surprised, Chaeyoung didn't mind. "That's... great."

"Thanks?"

"No, I didn't mean to make it weird, it's actually really great." She sounded glad, even. Chaeyoung couldn't care less.

"Okay," the song was about to end, "I'm going." She was ready. She walked slowly but with determination. She felt watched, though, that senior must be watching. She just needed the song to stop and they would stop holding each other and she could take the next dance or maybe even ask her to go outside, they could watch the stars or something. Only the song ended but they didn't separate. Chaeyoung stopped dead in her tracks. They were not letting go, they were getting even closer. So close. Her heart felt heavy and if she had thought earlier she had felt jealous, she couldn't even describe the way her blood was boiling now.

They were kissing. Passionately kissing. She couldn't look away. Who even was that guy? She made a fist out of rage, but she couldn't punch him, that wouldn't make sense, she couldn't but oh, how badly she wanted to. And then he whispered something leaning to her ear, Dahyun laughed and he walked away.

Chaeyoung wanted to get close but she was not moving. Then she realized Dahyun had spotted her and walked to her.

"Chaeng! I just had the best dance ever, did you see? I— It's a bit embarrassing but—"

"Who was that guy?"

"Angelo, he is new this semester, I talked to him the first day, he's thinking of joining the debate team."

"He thinks trash," Chaeyoung didn't realize what she was saying. She had been so determined to confess her feelings, why was this happening.

"Chaeng..."

"I'm sorry," she said perceiving Dahyun's worried tone. "Uh, Angelo," the name didn't feel nice in her mouth. What kind of name even was that, "you danced..."

"We kissed! Ugh, I told you it was the perfect night to experiment, I'm so glad he asked me to dance and he is so tall and strong." Well, Chaeyoung had one of those.

"Are— Are you happy? Did... did you like it? Him?" Chaeyoung feared the answer.

"He is really nice, I can't say that I like, though, he dances wonderfully but I can say that he kisses awfully, I mean," Dahyun tilted her head, "it's not like I have experience but I'm sure it's not supposed to be like that..."

At her words. as painfully as it was, Chaeyoung replayed in her head the images of seconds ago. She had not thought about it then but it was true, she didn't have experience either but it was not supposed to look like he was devouring her mouth. "Ew," Chaeyoung let out loud.

But Dahyun barely heard her. "Well, not everyone is a good kisser, I did want a proper kiss but, well, I guess he can get better, right? If we go out again and..."

Chaeyoung stopped hearing. That meant Dahyun was willing to keep going out with him. It was not just a thing for tonight. Why. How could it be?

"Dub, I," she interrupted Dahyun's explanation, "tonight I— I needed to uh..."

"Are you okay? Do you want to leave?" Chaeyoung couldn't believe words were not leaving her mouth, but she was in shock, and honestly what good would be confessing now?

"No... no, just, let me know when you want to leave, okay?"

Dahyun smiled and left a kiss on her cheek. "You're the best." That was her last sentence before disappearing through the crowd, probably looking for that Angelo fella.

She was the best. Yet she felt defeated. Completely trashed. Tired, embarrassed and let's not forget, sticky. She needed air. That's why she walked out again, this time really outside, and walked until she reached the nearby bleachers of the field outside.

"What a joke," she said out loud. She couldn't grasp the idea of anything that had just taken place. She had been sure everything was going to be just fine, how was it that it got so bad. Could she fix it? Maybe. She could still be honest, right? Only it got harder and she was not made of steel no matter how nice her muscles were. She felt like crying, but the thought of crying alone outside the dance only made her feel worse.

"There you are."

Chaeyoung looked up. It was that senior again. Without permission, she sat next to her. Not that she needed it but it was weird.

"Here I am." Chaeyoung figured company was not the worst that could happen to her.

"How it went, then?"

"Didn't you see?"

"Well, you didn't tell me who to look at."

"She was kissing someone."

"Oh! Oh, it was your friend, wow, that's..."

"How'd you know? That she is my friend."

"Well, you guys do everything together."

"Yeah, but, why would a senior know that?"

"Am I not allowed to know?"

"No, it's just... I don't really know any senior apart from Momo that cares about— you know what, whatever."

"Okay, well, impossible to miss a silver-haired girl." That made Chaeyoung remember the motive of her mood. She sighed and hid her face. "Hey, no, come on," the girl said. "Here, this will cheer you up." She handed her a cup. Chaeyoung had drunk enough lemonade but it was a nice gesture so she took it and tried a big gulp. Only to spit it out in an instant.

"What was that!?"

"I'm sensing you're not a big fan of vodka."

"I've never had vodka!"

"Shit, sorry, my bad."

Chaeyoung stared at her. She had accused the girl to be a senior therefore not knowing anyone, but she in fact knew her and Dahyun and it was in fact Chaeyoung the one that didn't know her instead. She has blonde long wavy hair and delicate features, her dress was white and she couldn't help but notice her marked collarbone as well as a little mole on her lips and nose.

"Who are you?"

"You should know your seniors."

"Sorry," Chaeyoung said honestly. She felt that was true, she was failing again.

"I'm joking," The girl smiled. "My name is— Did you hit the guy?"

The girl suddenly held Chaeyoung's right hand and examined it carefully.

"What? No." Chaeyoung had forgotten about her injured knuckles. "Ugh," the girl was distracting her from her fury, she started ranting again. "I should've, though, oh he would've lost so badly, who the hell does he think he is? We are not even a month into classes and— Why would he dare to even ask her to dance I mean Dahyun is— But— And he kisses awfully, how could she have let him do that, it's so disgusting, I can't believe— I don't understand, I don— I don— I—" The air, suddenly was nonexistent for Chaeyoung. "I—"

"Hey, hey," the girl said. "Breathe."

And Chaeyoung did but along with her respiration, tears appeared going down her cheeks, she felt so embarrassed. "So- sorry."

"Hey, no, no,"  the girl got closer and held Chaeyoung's chin. "It's okay, you..."

Chaeyoung was not sure what she was going through, so many emotions were messing with her brain. "It's so embarrassing, I—"

But she couldn't finish, because the mysterious senior was getting closer and closer, holding her chin in place, making her face her, how could that be? Chaeyoung was not dreaming. 'is she— is she about to kiss me? Is she about to kiss me?!'

Her eyes moved rapidly from her eyes to her lips, how could that be happening. Chaeyoung thinks everything. She knew she could get rejected tonight. But out of all the outcomes possible, she couldn't have guessed this senior would try to kiss her.

You can never catch Chaeyoung unprepared, yet, there she was, like a whole mess under that cute senior's gaze. If Chaeyoung plans everything, what was this?

Chapter Text

She was not making it up, the senior got so close, she only reacted just before their lips could touch, pushing her shoulders.

"What are you doing?" Chaeyoung was utterly confused.

"Ah," the girl said. "Well, you were upset."

"So?"

"I figured you'd calm down with a kiss, it sort of worked, didn't it? Besides... your crush got kissed, I thought it would be fair if you did too."

That was odd reasoning. But it weirdly made sense in Chaeyoung's mind, it was indeed good thinking. For her, if it had good arguments it was enough. The senior made sense. Then she really thought about it.

"Well, I've never kissed anyone..." She didn't feel shame saying it, and for some reason, she had talked so much with this girl already.

"Do you want to?" It was an offer.

"Would you tell me your name now?"

"I'm Mina," the girl smiled extending her hand, "and you're Chaeyoung."

"Hey, that's my line," Chaeyoung smiled too and they shook hands. "So, Mina, do you always go around kissing random people?" The comment made Mina look down, she seemed slightly annoyed. Chaeyoung had not meant it in a bad way. "I— I didn't mean to offend you, it was—"

"No, it's okay, it has nothing to do with you, just, uh, well, do you want to? I could kiss you now."

"That's..." That's a nice offer indeed. Chaeyoung felt a bit shy and she wanted to say yes, that way she would know what it was like, how to kiss properly, how to kiss Dahyun. Mina seemed to understand her hesitation as an invitation, Chaeyoung felt delicate fingers under her chin once again and... "Yes!" She stopped Mina one more time. "Uh, yes, I do, just... not now."

"Oh."

"No, but, with you."

"Oh..."

"I mean," Chaeyoung thought about it all in just a second, if Mina was willing to kiss her, she could use that. "We can kiss, on Monday, would you teach me how?"

Mina stared at her for a long time probably considering the odd request. Chaeyoung knew there was a low possibility of her saying yes but she really wanted to kiss properly, that way, that Angelo guy wouldn't be competition. She tried her best puppy eyes and Mina sighed.

"Okay, why the hell not, Monday."

"Great!" Chaeyoung took her phone out and typed the encounter. "After class, you can find me at the west door at five." Dahyun didn't use that door. They didn't usually. She felt hopeful once again. And Mina smiling at her, made her feel less crazy. It was a good plan, right? She had her reasons and a willing girl, as awful as that sounded.

But as soon as she said goodbye to Mina and Dahyun found her some time after so they could leave, she felt sad and defeated once again which wasn't proper of her, but it hurt. She needed to rest in order to feel better, with everything planned, nice, and with no sad feelings.

It didn't help the way Dahyun seemed extremely happy all the way home until they finally went to bed but she couldn't give up. So Chaeyoung washed her face, fixed her room a bit, checked her board, watered her cactus, and when she finally closed her eyes in bed she felt more relaxed. She had not been able to express her true feelings, but maybe it was better that way. Now, she was going to learn and prepare how to kiss, so when she finally finds the right moment again to express her feelings, if she gets to kiss Dahyun, she would be mesmerized by such a good kisser 'instead of vacuum cleaner Angelo' It was a great plan. Dahyun had been right, they should experience stuff, just with a slightly different motive for Chaeyoung. She didn't give Mina's willingness a second thought, just felt grateful as she fell asleep.

***

Her weekend passed uneventfully. Other than marking done dentist appointment from her board and cellphone. There was no news about any boy either, which made her feel better, maybe it had been just a one-night thing. She exercised, she studied, she advanced homework, she had burgers and smoothies with Dahyun, they held hands, they cuddled, and everything seemed back to normal. Chaeyoung felt at ease, they belonged together.

When Monday came, she was ready to learn. And not from school. She thought about everything and when the school bell rang at 4:30 she was ready to get two coffees and head to the west door. She told Dahyun she had some business with the student council and it was enough excuse to part ways.

At 5:01 she worried Mina had stood her up. How embarrassing would that be.

At 5:02 she started tapping her feet against the white tile.

At 5:03 she started sweating. 'of course she is not coming. Teach me how to kiss what a stupid request, she must be laughing at you with all her senior friends and—'

"Hey, there."

"There you are," she sighed heavily and handed her her coffee.

Mina looked at her wristwatch and stated, "I'm only three minutes late."

"Well, I said five." Chaeyoung hated unpunctuality. Mina mumbled something she couldn't hear and then started drinking her coffee. Both had started walking without knowing where to.

"I'll remember to be punctual for next time." 'next time? do I look like I'm such a bad kisser I'll need a next time?' Chaeyoung worried but Mina didn't feel she had said something wrong. "This machine is always stealing my money, I gave up using it," she said in reference to where Chaeyoung had got the coffee.

"Ah, yes, I lost the first two tries."

"And you tried again?"

"Yes, I didn't want to wait for you empty-handed."

Chaeyoung found out that Mina stared at her a bit more than necessary. "Where are we going?"

"My place." Chaeyoung doubted if that was a good idea for some time but then she heard Dahyun was going out with Tzuyu and Momo so it was okay. It's not like she was hiding Mina but, well, maybe she was. "Is that okay?"

"Unless you want to kiss me on the street, I guess so."

Chaeyoung laughed. It was weird but she liked Mina's answers, maybe because they weren't obvious to her. With everyone else she always knew more or less what was coming. Mina seemed surprised at her reaction but kept quiet. Then after walking many blocks, they got there not fifteen minutes past five. That worked for Chaeyoung's agenda.

Her parents worked, which made the house alone. It's not like she needed the house alone but it did make her feel comfortable and it had this little feeling of doing something forbidden, which she wasn't. Maybe the secretive part produced something in her. But she dismissed it.

They walked upstairs to her bedroom and she glanced discretely at Dahyun's door before closing her own.

"You have a nice room," Mina said looking carefully at every side. Chaeyoung had cleaned her room just for this, although there wasn't much to clean since she always has everything perfectly placed. Her room didn't have many things in plain sight either. It was all white. She had her desk and bookshelf with school stuff and books of her own entertainment near a window. Her big board with dates nearby. She had many post its on one side too and her cactus added a subtle green to all the white. On the other side, her bed was a twin-size bed with one nightstand, her closet was white as well and the only thing that showed a little bit about her free time was her backup pair of boxing gloves hanging from the closet door. "So, Mina said turning to her. "You want to learn how to kiss in order to beat that guy that kissed your crush, is that right?"

Chaeyoung was awkwardly standing near the door. "No. Well, yes but don't call her my crush, she is not my crush we're much more than that."

"Like you sister."

"No!" Well, it might look like that under their circumstances but Chaeyoung couldn't afford to see it like that. "We're soulmates."

"Okay... soulmates." Mina walked closer to Chaeyoung. "Then shall we begin?"

"Yes," Chaeyoung was aware of time, they had lost some by now. "Here," she went through her backpack and put on the bed many gums and mints. "I'm ready."

Mina used the same look she had given her when she requested this class and then laughed softly. "You bought all that?"  She took one of the ten packages. Chaeyoung nodded. "Well, first lesson, you don't need mints, it's okay... unless you ate something super smelly or yeah, you know, but even then, you didn't have to buy all this, thanks, though," she put the package in her school blazer pocket, "I appreciate it."

So Chaeyoung was not up to a good start, but she was a great student, she could do better. "Okay, no mints."

"I like the taste of coffee either way," Mina said softly making Chaeyoung get a bit embarrassed. Mina got closer and just like at the dance, used her delicate fingers to hold Chaeyoung's chin making her look slightly up. "I'll go slowly."

"What?" Chaeyoung panicked. "No, no," she moved away and sat on the bed, "you're supposed to teach me first, theory."

"Theory?"

"Yes, theory first. Most classes have a theory, then practice."

"You know," Mina objected sitting next to her, "nowadays it's quite the opposite and teachers let students make their own research."

"What? No, that's— Please, I'm great with theory."

Mina sighed, Chaeyoung wondered if the senior was regretting this. "Okay, then... look, we'll do a bit of theory and then practice but don't worry, okay? I'll narrate everything for you, you'll see, better?"

"Yes, yes, thank you."

"So, well, there's not much theory—"

Then Chaeyoung remembered the fact she had read, "Did you know that when kissing we use 23 to 34 facial muscles and 112 postural muscles? It's fascinating."

"Ah, yes... of course I knew," Mina smiled at her. Chaeyoung felt that was sarcasm.

"I'm sure it counts as exercise, look, I even save it as that." Chaeyoung grabbed her phone and showed Mina where she had saved their date.

"Exercise from five to six..." she read. "Five to six? Did you plan to kiss for a whole hour?"

Chaeyoung blushed, that was not it but it made her shy to hear it like that. "Well, no, theory first, I told you."

"Okay, okay, then we know now it's good exercise, now, there isn't really a way to teach you other than doing it, actually you can't really teach these things but okay. kissing is great and many enjoy it, but sometimes people like that guy and, well, boys mostly, think one just wants their tongue shoved down our throats when that's not the case, so, rule number one—" Mina couldn't finish because Chaeyoung moved frantically to get her notebook and pen. "Wh— No, you don't have to actually take notes, Chaeyoung."

"But it's important—"

"No, okay, wow," Mina smiled and grabbed the notebook from Chaeyoung's hands away. "You just need to remember."

"Are you sure? I'm better with notes."

"You are a good student, right?"

"Yes." She didn't doubt answering that.

"Then the rules of my class are that you must relax and do as I say."

"Okay." Chaeyoung worked with rules, she felt better now.

"Are you relaxed," Mina asked using her hands to massage Chaeyoung's shoulders. "Breathe in and out, got it?" Chaeyoung did, she felt calm. She promised to behave and just trust Mina. "There we go, theory done, I'll kiss you now, just don't panic."

Chaeyoung nodded. She knew she was going to feel fingers now, she liked them because they made her head still, she wondered if that was mandatory or what. "Okay."

Mina leaned closer slowly and talked softly, "Just use your lips." Then she closed the space in between them and brushed her lips softly against Chaeyoung's. Chaeyoung parted her lips just a bit and Mina leaned more to finally kiss Chaeyoung's upper lip and then lower lip one time each and backed away. "Was that okay?"

"Yes," Chaeyoung whispered not wanting to ruin the atmosphere Mina's soft voice had created.

"I'll go again, longer this time." And she did, Chaeyoung felt Mina's fingers guiding her back again to her face and repeated the same actions from before, but this time she also leaned her head to the other side and left small kisses on Chaeyoung's mouth, making her part her lips and participate as well, Chaeyoung kissed her lips as well. They were super soft and she wondered just how it would be to kiss Dahyun. If it felt like this, she couldn't wait to do it. Then without realizing Mina backed away again. "You did great," she said.

"Really?"

"Yes, you followed instructions and your lips are, well, I hope you don't mind but they are quite kissable."

"Thanks," Chaeyoung answered lamely. She was not sure how to feel about that compliment but she did want to prove it to Dahyun now.

"So, that's one kind of kiss but I'm sure when you kiss her, you would want something more passionate, am I right?" Chaeyoung nodded picturing it in her head, it looked amazing. "You've probably heard of tongue kissing, french kissing, whatever, we'll do that now but always start as we did before, okay? Don't use your tongue right away."

Chaeyoung nodded again and repeated instructions in her head. "But how would I know—"

"You'll see, trust me," Mina said leaning down again, this time, less slowly probably because Chaeyoung was no longer worried about that first step. They kissed again, Chaeyoung kept her eyes closed picturing Dahyun and it gave her the confidence to follow the kiss until something new happened. She felt Mina's tongue brushing softly against her lip. She was surprised. "It's okay, I'll do it again, and you'll open your mouth." Chaeyoung nodded not wanting to speak so close to Mina's lips and the kiss kept going, she liked that Mina kept reassuring her and explaining every step.

The same thing from before happened and this time she opened her mouth. It was such a nice feeling, she had no idea kissing could feel so amazing. Mina's tongue sort of caressed her opened mouth and Mina's fingers kept her so close yet somehow she wanted to be closer. "How was that?"

"Great," Chaeyoung whispered. This time not caring about talking so close. "How is it that—"

"It feels so nice? You should know, smarty-pants, your tongue has many nerve endings which is perfect, and kissing triggers your brain to release stuff like oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, I'm sure you know how those act."

"Oh, so you did have theory, you were hiding it from me."

"No, I told you I wanted to make a more practical lesson, isn't it great?"

Chaeyoung, for some reason, maybe how close they were or maybe because she knew now why it felt so nice, captured herself Mina's lips. It caught Mina by surprise apparently but she kissed her either way. Only their lips, the smack sound was the only thing you could hear for a while. Until Mina stopped again and instructed Chaeyoung, "That was really good, but now I need you to open your mouth again and... when you feel my tongue, use yours too."

"Mine too? How?" Chaeyoung lost confidence again.

"Like... when we brush our lips but with your tongue, okay? Just do it."

And Chaeyoung was a fast learner and a good student so she didn't object and waited for the right moment again. Every time they kissed, they started slowly, Chaeyoung liked it. It made her a bit nervous to use her tongue too, what if she did it wrong? But then Mina had been so nice and explicative she had to try.

Mina for some reason was extremely slow this time, like super slow. The time she took just to brush Chaeyoung's lips, it made her stomach kind of feel weird and she found herself leaning too just to reach faster. The contact was somehow different this time, it felt nicer, and by the time Mina asked for permission with her tongue, Chaeyoung granted it immediately and tried to follow what Mina had asked. It really felt so much better when it was the two of them, Chaeyoung was so impressed, she didn't want the kiss to stop. So when she felt Mina moving her hand from her chin to her nape, she couldn't help but use her hands, too, to hold Mina's waist. She was not sure if that was allowed but Mina didn't say anything just got closer. Chaeyoung was sure they were probably in one of those so-called make-out sessions. She liked to be held and to hold Mina, it made the kiss feel magical. They kissed for several minutes, going from just lips to just their tongues to just their lips. Each time Chaeyoung brought Mina closer without realizing and she felt Mina's hand firmly caressing her neck. Until they stopped, Chaeyoung did.

"It's—" she said a bit breathless, "It's about to be six."

Mina moved back and it made Chaeyoung blush how she licked her lips as she looked down for a second and then up, with her same relaxed expression. "How did you know?"

"I don't know my brain just... does it."

"You have the cutest little dimples."

The compliment came so out of nowhere, that the only thing Chaeyoung could do was look surprised. "Thank you," she said lamely again.

Mina seemed to notice. "Earlier you said the same, you know when someone compliments you it might be nice if you compliment them back."

For some reason, Chaeyoung enjoyed that Mina was correcting her or advising her in these random things. "Your bone structure is nice." But maybe she is not that good at following them because as soon as she said that, Mina's face changed.

"My— what?" She was holding a laugh.

Chaeyoung had meant it so she explained, "At the dance, your collarbone was exposed nicely in your dress, it looked perfect."

"Oh, so you were looking after all, I thought you were too heartbroken for that," Mina joked and seemed flattered.

"I'm not heartbroken, nothing happened, plans just got delayed," Chaeyoung corrected just to feel better herself. Plans got delayed but it gave her the time to have this lesson first, she was super thankful to Mina, she didn't even wonder why the senior had taken the time to do it.

"Right," Mina said getting up. "So that's the end of my lesson."

"Thank you," Chaeyoung got up too, fixing her plaid skirt and tie, "for agreeing to this, I know it's not—"

"Don't sweat it, I enjoyed it too, so. You're not a bad kisser."

Chaeyoung's smile was forming but it stopped. 'not a bad kisser?' That's not a good kisser. It couldn't be. But another session was probably out of question. "Oh... well, okay, would you give me your number?" Just in case. She handed her phone.

Mina smiled probably realizing how her choice of words had made straight-A student Chaeyoung feel. She accepted and saved her number, Chaeyoung watched how she took her time doing it. It was almost six now, Chaeyoung didn't have anything to do after but if she had typed that lasted from five to six then it had to end at six. Luckily, Mina finished and they walked downstairs.

Only to run up with Dahyun at the door.

"Dub!"

"Hey, Momo just dropped me," she explained as a greeting and then looked at Mina. "Oh, hi."

"Hi," Mina smiled politely.

Chaeyoung talked before she could introduce herself, "This is Mina, we, uh, we were exercising."

Dahyun nodded and smiled at Mina but then she noticed, "With your uniforms?"

"Well," Mina rushed before Chaeyoung. "Today was just theory, she's teaching me the basics of boxing."

"Oh, great," Dahyun squeezed Chaeyoung's shoulder. "Well, I'll go."

"Nice hair," Mina said before she could leave.

"Oh, thank you," Dahyun seemed delighted. "Nice pin!" And she walked after Mina had smiled too.

It was 6:01 and Mina was already outside next to Chaeyoung who looked paler.

"You live with the girl!?"

"Yeah..."

"Oh, you have it hard."

"I know." Chaeyoung knew just how difficult it was to see her best friend every day at every moment, be madly in love with her yet not express it.

"Well, See? She didn't doubt to compliment me back."

Chaeyoung got out of it and realized Mina's words. Maybe it was a nice gesture to do that, she'll consider it in the future. Then her eyes traveled to the pin Dahyun had mentioned, which she had not noticed. It was a delicate golden letter M next to another M and a little rose. She wondered if it meant anything special but she was not going to ask. "Right, but did you see how she understood right away theory goes first? I told you."

"Didn't you enjoy it?" Mina boldly asked making Chaeyoung open her mouth and immediately close it.

"Don't— okay, well—"

"Don't worry you don't have to say anything, I know you did," Mina said last before starting to walk away. "See you around, cute dimples."

It made Chaeyoung's face get completely red out of embarrassment, shyness and a bit of annoyance given that Dahyun might hear that but she waved goodbye and that was it.

Later that night, after having checked everything for tomorrow's classes, she couldn't fall asleep. She kept reliving everything that had happened. She really really tried to think of something else and just rest. But out of nowhere flashes of feeling Mina's warm breath against her lips made her toss and turn. So she gave up and focused on that only.

After all, it was her first time kissing someone and she had not thought about it much. Now, it hit her. 'I kissed a girl' Chaeyoung thought smiling. 'I really did it' And she had done it right, right? That's what Mina said. She didn't know if that senior was a reliable source, but the way she kissed her, made Chaeyoung believe she did have a good teacher. She didn't have anyone to compare it with but it had given her the confidence to try and be more close to Dahyun. that's what she promised. Or else, it would've been not worth it.

Despite the kiss itself, what haunted Chaeyoung that night the most, were Mina's fingers. How the sensation lingered under her chin, how it felt when she held her neck. Would Dahyun hold her chin like that too? Would Dahyun kiss the same? Chaeyoung knew her best friend did everything right, if anything, she probably kissed even better than Mina. She finally fell asleep with the sensation of warm breath and soft fingers replaying in her head, only she kept imagining it was Dahyun instead. And as her last thoughts, she remembered:

Chaeyoung had enjoyed the taste of coffee too.

Chapter Text

It is just a coffee vending machine. It's old, it doesn't work well, and some of its lights flicker, yet Chaeyoung couldn't stop staring at it. It has been a couple of days since she had seen Mina. Chaeyoung felt it was almost as if the senior had the power to appear only when she wanted to. They didn't have any reason to meet, but Chaeyoung had started to feel... anxious. So there she was, staring at the coffee machine.

She kept making excuses not to use it. 'it will take my money away, I'll lose the first two tries, that if I'm lucky, I'll look ridiculous, no one uses it' But she didn't walk away. All her excuses were just to avoid the embarrassing truth. Chaeyoung wanted to taste that coffee again. Just a taste.

The bell was about to ring, she needed to decide quickly, but she was miraculously saved.

"Hey, let's go," Dahyun was walking to their classroom and noticed Chaeyoung, "what? You want some coffee? She must have noticed Chaeyoung's wish too.

Chaeyoung breathed out shakily and turned to wrap her arms around Dahyun, who received her gladly, patting her back. "No, it's fine." Chaeyoung knew the coffee thing was just her brain being stupid. But she was feeling some type of way she couldn't name, the only thing she knew was that hugging Dahyun was helping, she hid her head in the crook of her neck and inhale the scent of fresh linen. She knew she was being extra touchy, but she couldn't help it. Dahyun and her have always been fans of being in each other's personal space, but she never thought much of it, despite her feelings, their actions were a natural thing. Now, ever since she kissed that senior, every time she was close to Dahyun she just wanted to be closer. And she started looking for innocent ways of being more close, as she was doing just now.

"I'll get you some," Dahyun said and Chaeyoung moved back a bit to look at her. "I have change."

"It will take you more than one try."

"I'll test my luck for you," Dahyun smiled and fixed Chaeyoung's tie before walking to the old machine. "Let's see..."

Chaeyoung watched her, still feeling weird. She was getting annoyed at not being able to identify this feeling. It was like her breath got taken away every time. Then Dahyun got it on the first try. 'how perfect is she' "You did it."

"Yep, told you, here," she handed her the small paper cup and Chaeyoung could smell the coffee, she felt silly, but she couldn't wait to taste it.

Holding Dahyun's hand from behind she thanked her and they headed to class. Surprisingly, she felt better, calmer now that she could taste the sweet vanilla coffee and hold Dahyun's hand. The feeling dissipated.

"Do you have the tickets?"

"There are no tickets this time," Dahyun answered, in her voice a bit of doubt that Chaeyoung identified as surprise because she should have known there is no need for tickets this time, she did. But she pretended to forget now just to change the topic.

"Right, then, should we go sooner or..."

"It's at eight I think it's fine if we get there a few minutes earlier, this time everyone can go."

"Is she nervous?"

"Totally, I sent her encouraging words this morning."

"You're so considerate," Chaeyoung complimented at the news.

Dahyun smiled and ruffled her hair as they passed through the door looking for their seats. Today it was Momo's presentation, Chaeyoung had it in mind. Of course, she did. It was the first of the semester and it always made Momo nervous. She was the main act of a series of presentations. Chaeyoung wasn't nervous, though, she knew Momo was the best at what she did. It will be fine and she couldn't wait to congratulate her after, they usually got dinner and spent quality time with Tzuyu too. Maybe it is what she needs to get rid of unwanted sensations.

She tried her best to stay focused on class and it worked because it was one of her favorite subjects, Chemistry, although that might have to do with how amazing she thought her teacher was. Tzuyu is always saying Chaeyoung has a crush, but she denies it, she is just fond of the subject.

Time flew by, both girls went home after agreeing to meet with Tzuyu after Momo's presentation. Chaeyoung decided to practice a bit, that would totally keep her mind focused on what's important. This time she did it properly, warming up first and after. Not forgetting her music. She adored the feeling boxing brought to her, she was definitely feeling better, and in just a moment it was time to go. She washed up and dressed to support Momo.

Their school had a special theater for these things. Today it was quite full but since they got a bit earlier they managed to have some pretty decent seats.

"Look, Tzuyu is a few rows down, I'll go ask her if she saw Momo just now," Dahyun said and got up. Chaeyoung nodded and saw her walk carefully in between the seats and legs of students and parents. Chaeyoung took out her phone and deleted Momo's presentation from her calendar.

"Is this seat taken?"

"What are you doing here?"

"I thought we already established I study here," Mina remarked sitting next to Chaeyoung.

"But, I mean why are you here now." Chaeyoung looked at the senior and the feeling from earlier threatened her stomach. So she stopped looking.

"It's a school thing, isn't it?" Mina said a bit frustrated. Chaeyoung knew she had asked with an attitude so she apologized.

"Sorry, sometimes I don't realize if I'm being too direct or insensitive."

"Yeah, old news," Mina said getting up but Chaeyoung held her wrist.

"It's not— It's not taken for the next five minutes."

"Okay." Mina sat again and Chaeyoung could feel her eyes staring attentively at her even though she was trying to stay focused on the stage.

The feeling had definitely come back and she wondered if asking Mina. But she had no idea how to explain it and it was embarrassing. But her thoughts were interrupted by Mina taking something out of her pocket, Chaeyoung recognized it as the gum she had bought the other day. Mina took one and started chewing. "Want one?"

Doubting for some reason, she finally accepted and guided the piece of gum to her mouth. The feeling just kept growing and it made her wonder if Mina's piece of gum tasted the same as hers. 'if only I could taste it... no, no, god, Chaeyoung' Of course it tasted the same, but Chaeyoung grew nervous picturing it. Feeling the taste of mint in her mouth as if it wasn't from the piece she was chewing

"So I take it as you didn't confess yet," Mina suddenly talked again.

"What?" Chaeyoung looked at her and then followed the direction of her gaze. Her heart stopped, she no longer cared about the taste of mint. That Angelo guy was talking with Dahyun who apparently was returning from having talked to Tzuyu. They could just be talking but Dahyun's big smile shattered Chaeyoung's heart.

"Then my lesson wasn't worth it?"

"Wh— no, yes, it was, thank you I just— I'm waiting for the right time," Chaeyoung insisted.

Dahyun brushed the guy's shoulder for a second and smiled, it looked bad for Chaeyoung's cause and Mina didn't doubt to point it out, "You better hurry, then."

"I will." Chaeyoung felt the feeling from earlier the strongest now and then Mina was gone. Dahyun got back and the lights went off. Chaeyoung couldn't concentrate much but she cheered for Momo loudly. In between presentations, she felt like asking Dahyun what was the deal with him, but she was far too afraid of the answer. So she remained quiet

Momo crushed it, they hurried backstage to wait and congratulate her. Her energy and technique were unmatched, Momo was the best dancer Chaeyoung knew. Waiting for her, Tzuyu and Dahyun were talking about the other presentations when Chaeyoung got distracted by blonde hair. Again.

Mina was backstage too, without a second thought, Chaeyoung approached her. "What are you doing here?"

"Oh my god, are you that dense?" Mina sounded impressed Chaeyoung was talking to her. "Are you following me?"

"Why would I follow you?" If anything, it was the senior the one that seemed to always be where Chaeyoung was.

"Okay, well, why are you here?"

"Waiting for a friend, Momo."

"She killed it today," Mina smiled. "We are from different classrooms."

Chaeyoung thought maybe that's why she didn't know about Mina.

"She is the best," Chaeyoung nodded. "So, what are you—"

"Please don't ask again," Mina interrupted her. "I helped with some of the decorations, I have to take them out once everyone is gone." Chaeyoung nodded again, feeling better now that she had a reason. It made her wary that she could swear she had never seen Mina and now she was everywhere. She had put Dahyun in the hypothetical case, her friend answered it had to do with the brain and stuff, Chaeyoung was not convinced. "I could use a hand."

Chaeyoung understood that meant she was asking for help. She would help, after all, Mina had helped her. "I can't, I have plans."

"I had to try," Mina smiled. "But I understand, go celebrate with your friend." Mina signaled behind her. Momo had appeared and was greeting the other girls.

Chaeyoung waved with her hand and turned around to be with her friends.

"It's the best I've seen." Dahyun was talking. Chaeyoung joined them supporting her hand on Dahyun's shoulder.

"It was great but last year's is still my favorite," Tzuyu objected.

"I don't know I tried my best in both so..."

"Of course you did," Chaeyoung talked moving to hug Momo. "Congratulations today."

"Thanks." Momo gave her a tight hug and then added, "Hey, Chaeng?"

"Yeah."

"Why were you talking to that girl?" Momo sounded worried.

Chaeyoung felt she shouldn't talk about Mina in front of Dahyun for some reason so she was not sure of answering until, "Mina?" Dahyun said. "Chaeng is guiding her into boxing."

"Yeah..." Chaeyoung supported Dahyun's answer not sounding so sure.

"You never wanted to teach me," Tzuyu frowned looking hurt. Chaeyoung scratched her neck.

"I see..." Momo nodded. "Well, just, I don't know, be careful."

"Of what?" Chaeyoung didn't like that tone.

"I've heard things, I don't want you to get hurt or something."

'or something? what something? what is she talking about?' Chaeyoung looked annoyed. "It's nothing, I can't stop talking to someone just because you heard something, rumors are always stupid, besides, I know how to take care of myself." The part where she considered Mina to be pretty nice and kind was kept to herself.

"Alright," Momo lifted her hands in surrender, "just had to tell you, easy."

'No, you didn't' Chaeyoung thought. She really felt people talking about other people without knowing was awful. Where were the arguments? Not to Chaeyoung's liking.

What Chaeyoung didn't realize too busy feeling annoyed was how Dahyun was not by her side. And when she did, her stomach sunk. Again. Today was not being such a great day. Two times seeing them interact and the unknown feeling she couldn't get rid of emerged.

"They look nice," Tzuyu commented.

"Nice? What are you talking about? Dahyu—"

"Chaeng, you really should start leaving the girl alone." Momo was not gaining Chaeyoung's love tonight either.

"She's—"

"People think you two are dating, lucky Angelo approached her, probably because he's new and had not seen you with her."

'God, Momo I swear! I—' Chaeyoung's breathing changed and she really wanted to run away and hit something. But she calmed down. "So what? If they think that."

"It is influencing with her possibil—"

"Hey," Dahyun got back, "come on, let's go."

"Yeah, let's go," Chaeyoung said.

"What did he want?" Tzuyu unnecessarily asked.

"Buy me smoothies but I told him we were already going to."

'well done' Chaeyoung smiled to herself.

"Invite him with us, then."

Yeah, Chaeyoung was definitely using Momo's face as a mental image for the next practice.  "Why? No."

"It's okay," Dahyun said smiling softly.

"Well, if you want to, just do it, I'm hungry and I deserve food after a killer presentation, please, let's go now."

"Agreed, just tell him and let's go," Tzuyu started walking with Momo.

Dahyun glanced at Chaeyoung and smiled. "Would you mind?"

'yes' But Dahyun's smile looked so nice. "No."

"Great," she smiled again and maybe it was worth it.

Only maybe because Chaeyoung's next few hours were atrocious.

The worst part? The guy was actually really nice and she hated herself for thinking that.

Chaeyoung got to finally really look at him. He was tall and seemed really strong, which annoyed her for no reason. He had dark curly hair, brown eyes, and a kind smile. He was wearing an orange lumber jacket and it made him look so cool and warm, Chaeyoung wanted to jump off a cliff. She had thought that after the dance, Dahyun and he had not spoken. Why would she think that? Maybe her silly belief that Dahyun told her everything. But she was hiding something from her too, right?

Still, her blood would boil every time anyone at the table laughed at something he had said and she especially hated how Momo purposely hurried to sit him and herself next to Dahyun not allowing her to be next to her. So what if people think they are dating sometimes, Chaeyoung thought that was perfect, then it meant it would be just fine if they did. They will make a cute couple, she was sure. Dahyun laughed at her jokes too, she was strong too, what else did she need? Besides Chaeyoung gets her. The only thing she had to do was confess and they would live happily ever after.

But she needed to get rid of him first. She needed to wait for the right time. And every time at dinner she felt that time was not near, the feeling from this morning came back. She wanted Dahyun close.

But she wasn't and Angelo was sharing his fries with her. 'how lovely' Dahyun's giggles only made her feel worse and worse which never happens and suddenly she wished she had stayed to help Mina clean up. Chaeyoung would rather be blind in the meantime. Then she would have gathered the courage again. She was not sure exactly what was stopping her, only that it was not right yet.

"Well, I— I'll see you guys around." Angelo was quite timid too, helping with his look of perfect boy. "I'll, uh, text you," he said looking at Dahyun. He left right after.

'Finally' Chaeyoung wanted to go to bed and forget this day ever happened. Momo drove them back home, passing by Tzuyu's first and then she finally got to her room. Her bed. How nice it was. She felt safe, she felt the world was paused.

Dahyun didn't hold her hand on the way back and she didn't hug her good night, only said it. Chaeyoung felt she was losing her, that couldn't be. She needed to plan something again, something better. But her mind was not at its best and the feeling she had felt the whole day, in the darkness of her room, came as stronger as ever.

She had no idea how but she took her phone and the only thing she could think of was texting her.

To Mina prettiest girl
How did u know?

Chaeyoung had not changed the name Mina had used to save herself. But she was going to. She waited only a few minutes for her answer.

From Mina prettiest girl
Its 1 am

Chaeyoung was aware.

To Mina pretties girl
That I box, how did u know

From Mina prettiest girl
That's a late reaction
I saw gloves in your room
and a picture downstairs. took a wild guess

'ah, right' Chaeyoung forgot about pictures in her house. They were various of her downstairs. She changed the name before texting again.

To Mina
Can I call you?

Chaeyoung was not a fan of texting. She would've called Mina right away, but she had learned not everyone likes phone calls as much as she does. Mina took a moment before answering because Chaeyoung felt nervousness creeping down her stomach again. It was unusual.

From Mina
ok

So Chaeyoung pressed the call button. It only rang two times.

"What is it, cute dimples?" Chaeyoung had not expected to hear the nickname, the unknown sensation reached its highest point and she definitely had no idea what she was doing now. "Chaeyoung?"

She took a minute to answer, fearing Mina might hang up, but she didn't and Chaeyoung finally reacted, "Can we have another class?"

"Exercise?" Mina chuckled softly.

Chaeyoung relaxed but felt her hands tingly. "Yeah... exercise."

"Mhh, but why?"

Chaeyoung was not sure. Only that she felt in her mind and whole body like it was needed. And maybe she could use the practice for the meantime she develops another plan. "I need the practice," Chaeyoung said confidently. "And," she added with no confidence, "I— I have this feeling."

"What feeling?" Chaeyoung wondered how was it that Mina sort of cared. But she was grateful.

"I don't know," she said recalling the coffee from this morning. "In my stomach, my hands, I really don't know." And Chaeyoung usually knows most things.

"Needy."

"What?"

"You liked the kiss, you want more, your body is telling you, you feel needy," Mina summarized. Chaeyoung was not sure.

"Needy?"

"Okay," Mina said. "I'll do it."

Chaeyoung felt relieved. Maybe things were going to change, she would have another lesson and maybe her feeling would disappear and she would feel like herself again and have the guts to tell Dahyun just how much she loves her. "Tomorrow?"

"Mhh, let me check," Mina said and Chaeyoung waited for a couple of seconds. "Okay, tomorrow."

"Thank you."

"I'll find something in return, don't worry." Chaeyoung got scared for a second but Mina had the right to ask for something, right? Chaeyoung would try her best. After all, Mina had given her something really special, and she was sure someone else wouldn't have been as tender and slow.

"Deal," Chaeyoung said feeling better to take on the world again. "At five."

"Five," Mina said before hanging up. Chaeyoung managed to fall asleep quite easily after that.

Although Mina's words pondered in her head. You want more. But what was more? More kisses? Or something new? Maybe Mina had another lesson, Chaeyoung hoped so, she wanted to learn, she was good at that, but she had no idea what could be more. Maybe they were just going to make out again, that was fine by Chaeyoung. She was not nervous about doing it because she had done it right. Mina said that. Maybe she could use this lesson to do it better. With a good kisser title for feedback instead of a not bad kisser like the first time.

Next morning she woke up with newfound energy. She showered fixed fruit for her and Dahyun for later and made breakfast. They ate as usual and she forgot all about the lack of contact from last night because they walked hand in hand to school. See? getting back to normal, that was Chaeyoung's goal for today. Besides learning a bit more with Mina.

"Chaeng," Dahyun said in their break before the last period. They were in the library lending their homework to Tzuyu. "Yesterday's dinner was... was it okay for you?"

Chaeyoung was expecting a question about the topic but she got nervous either way. And she hated that her attitude made Dahyun feel doubtful but she also liked that she was considerate enough to ask. Does that make her a bad friend? She has her reasons, she wants to control her jealousy, yes, but for that, she needs to tell Dahyun first.

But she lied. "It was okay."

"We get along," Dahyun chose her words carefully. Chaeyoung didn't want to be seen as a jealous friend. "Angelo and I, we talk often..."

"He seems nice," Chaeyoung said gathering all her strength. She wanted to ease Dahyun's mind even if it hurt her.

"You really think so?" Dahyun's eyes sparkled. Chaeyoung's heart felt heavy.

"Mh," she was not that strong for a yes, "maybe we can all be friends." Yeah, she was being difficult again. But it was true, friends was okay. They had to start somewhere, right? But if they ever want to go any further, Chaeyoung would've already confessed. She was sure.

"Ah, yeah," Dahyun smiled and changed the topic, "Tzuyu, are you done?"

"Uh..., I still don't get it much but," she sighed and stood up, "let's go."

The three girls started their way to class, only a few minutes left of break. But Dahyun remembered she had to lend Momo her calculator so she excused herself and ran in the other direction.

"It's not nice, you know?" Tzuyu said. "What you are doing."

"What am I doing?" Chaeyoung asked smiling, thinking Tzuyu was joking about something.

"She is your friend, you are supposed to support her, yet all you seem to do is act like a kid whenever he is mentioned or around. You don't own her." She wasn't.

Chaeyoung felt so called out. In a way, she knew Tzuyu was right. But it was much deeper than that. "It's not like that, you don't understand."

"What? That you like her?"

Chaeyoung stopped walking as if she got hit by the wall. "How— Why would you—"

"Chaeng, come on, we've been friends for a while now." Tzuyu's voice warmed up seeing Chaeyoung nervous. She was glad because she didn't like to be scolded, who did anyway?

She looked down. They didn't have the time to discuss that right now. "Let's have this class, then I have fifteen minutes to talk to you, okay?" Chaeyoung did the math, she could give those minutes to clear Tzuyu's head and then the minutes left to get mentally prepared and find Mina at the west door. She wondered for a second what Mina did in those but she dismissed it as quickly as it came. For some, it might sound mean the way Chaeyoung worded the answer, but she wasn't, her friends knew that, she just needed clear times.

"Okay," Tzuyu said touching her shoulder for a second probably saying to Chaeyoung not to worry.

The truth was Chaeyoung was a bit distracted during class, but it was okay, she still understood most of it and most teachers wouldn't ask much of her because they know she knows. Dahyun had debate team, Chaeyoung forgot to ask if Angelo joined yet.

After saying goodbye to her, she marked done math exercises from her phone's agenda and was ready to meet Tzuyu's questions or words or explain whatever she needed to know.

Before talking, Tzuyu used the restrooms and asked her to go with her to get something from her locker, taking away precious minutes from Chaeyoung. "You can't say it out loud like you did just then, though, alright?" Chaeyoung started once they were on their way again. She preferred walking and talking so she mindlessly made way to the west door because she might be late.

Tzuyu followed. "You just frustrated me, I didn't want to say it."

"I get it."

"Would you tell her?"

"I tried."

"Really?" Tzuyu sounded too impressed

"I mean, I was going to, at the dance, but then..." Chaeyoung sighed and took a turn. There it was, the coffee vending machine.

"She danced with him the whole time," Tzuyu completed.

"And a bit more than dancing, don't you think? But it's okay I have everything sorted out." Chaeyoung reached the machine, she only had one try this time. "She told me before the dance, how she wanted to experiment, I'm sure he is just that, I should've hurried but now— damn it." The machine won.

"Why are you using this? Everyone knows it's a scam."

"Do you have change?"

"You'll lose it," Tzuyu shook her head but looked in her wallet either way. "Here."

It was only one try more. Chaeyoung tried again with all her hopes up. It didn't work.

"Ahh! Why!?"

"Come on, I told you, let's go somewhere else, I'll buy you coffee if you want it so desperately," Tzuyu offered.

"No, I— I can't now." Chaeyoung was taking longer than expected. They started walking again."So, uh, yeah, I'll tell her sooner than later."

"Maybe it's a good thing that he appeared, he can be the experiment and you the real thing after, right?" That was one way to look at it, Chaeyoung liked it.

"Well, I hope so."

"She does seem interested, though, in him. And she is worried about your reaction so all I'm saying is you should make it easy for her."

"Has she said anything?"

"The other day she asked us if we felt you were mad or something, she thinks you're being distant."

"Distant?" Chaeyoung got surprised. "I have been trying to—" She sighed audibly again, she didn't have time for this. "Well, thank you... for not judging me."

"Of course not," Tzuyu said and stopped again, they were quite close to the west door. "I know you have good intentions. Or wait, you mean the whole liking girls thing?"

"No, no, just... Dahyun."

"Well, it's okay, if anything, I'm on your side," Tzuyu smiled and Chaeyoung felt so much better. For a second. Because she got a view of the west door and Mina was there.

"Thank you," she hurried, I— I'll see you around."

"Are you not going now?"

"Uh, this... no, I have to..."

"Okay," Tzuyu frowned. "I'll see you, I guess," she hugged her goodbye and left through the door passing right next to Mina. Still, Chaeyoung waited a bit before going there. Mina caught her hiding and raised her eyebrows.

But Chaeyoung could still see Tzuyu walking away so she didn't want to risk it. Mina smiled and looked at her wristwatch and back at Chaeyoung with a shocked expression. Chaeyoung knew she was being mocked. Mina shook her head disapprovingly and finally, she could walk to the door.

"It's 5:01," Mina remarked as soon as she got next to her.

"I know, sorry." Chaeyoung really felt bad even if it was a minute. Mina just seemed like laughing.

"And you're empty-handed."

"That's different, last time I didn't want to wait empty-handed, now you were the one waiting."

"And I'm not empty-handed, I bring knowledge and wisdom and patience just to teach you," Mina gave her a bright smile and started walking. "Shall we go?

"Okay," Chaeyoung sighed heavily. For some reason, she felt tired.

They walked in silence for a while, until Mina, who had stared at her the whole time, broke it. "Are you okay?"

"Me? Yes."

"Are you like... nervous or something?" Mina seemed determined to help her mood.

"Nervous? No... I'm just, I don't know," Chaeyoung tried to smile, she didn't want to act like a burden to Mina.

"Like when you didn't know yesterday?" Somehow, Mina's relaxed voice made Chaeyoung feel like she cared and not as if she was meddling.

"I guess so." It was weird not having an answer because she always did.

Both girls kept walking until they got to the younger's house. This time Chaeyoung guided Mina downstairs, to her basement, because it had to be believable that they were training. What Chaeyoung didn't consider once again and apparently neither did Mina was that they still had their uniforms.

Mina chuckled a bit when Chaeyoung said they were going downstairs this time. She probably thinks it's pointless but for Chaeyoung makes sense.

"Are you a psychopath?"

"Why?" Mina stopped walking.

"You passed next to the punching bag and didn't punch it, really, if I had a penny every time someone walks near it and doesn't punch it, I'd have zero."

"Well now you have one," Mina said and sat on the sofa leaving her schoolbag aside. "I don't think that makes me a psychopath, though, or that it has anything to do with that."

"It's just a saying, even I know that." Chaeyoung had to learn it. She did feel a bit disappointed that Mina didn't say anything about the place, or more like her training stuff. It was awkward when she shared it with people but she was waiting for Mina to ask about it. So she just sat too. Not too close not too far away.

Mina turned her body facing Chaeyoung and looked for her eyes. Chaeyoung made eye contact for just a few seconds. when she looked away, Mina talked, "I have something new to teach you."

"Really? I was not sure if there was more to it..."

Mina let out her singular chuckle, the one used whenever Chaeyoung said something wrong apparently. "There's plenty more."

"Oh." Will they learn that much in just an hour? Would she have to ask for another one?

"But first, I need you to describe it to me."

"Describe what?"

"The feeling you mentioned last night... needy," Mina remembered. And it sounded almost as if she was enjoying it.

"I don't want to do that." Chaeyoung felt it was embarrassing that she had not known how to name it and that Mina insists is one thing.

"Is that how you answer in class too?"

"What? No, of course not."

"Then you shouldn't answer it now." Apparently, Mina was taking serious her whole teacher act. Chaeyoung guessed it made things more comfortable. Less personal.

"This is different."

"Yes, it is," Mina said and got back to sitting looking forward. "Since it's different I can choose to start or not, if you don't answer I won't."

"Ah— That's not fair." Chaeyoung turned to her this time. Mina didn't answer. "Are you for real?" Chaeyoung kept staring but Mina didn't bend. A heavy sigh left Chaeyoung's mouth and the silence was formed. It made Chaeyoung feel self-conscious but she couldn't keep it, the longer they were in silence, the more the feeling from yesterday got back and even if she felt it was embarrassing to describe it, she was the one that brought it up to Mina in the first place.

She could slightly feel her heartbeat in her throat, she fixed her skirt and coughed a little. Maybe talking about it might help. "I... get these random sensations, as if I'm nervous? But I'm not." Chaeyoung tried to explain herself the best she could. "My heart might feel heavy or— or my stomach feels it. Sometimes I just feel like the air is not enough but the thing is, I'm fine, I'm just fine so it's stupid."

Mina looked at her attentively. "But, is there anything on your mind?"

That was embarrassing. Because sometimes there was, sometimes she wanted Dahyun closer, sometimes it was mixed with jealousy, and yesterday, even next to Mina she felt it as she could feel it creeping in now. "That's... I just— I feel like—" Chaeyoung couldn't say it fully but she managed to say, "When she is close to me it goes away."

"Dahyun?" Chaeyoung couldn't get used to the name coming from Mina's mouth but she nodded.

"I don't know, yesterday I felt it too many times and then I ended up calling you and I only could sleep after that, I—"

"Chaeyoung," Mina said softly getting closer and holding her chin. Chaeyoung had no idea she had missed that specific contact. "Are you feeling like that now?"

Chaeyoung breathed in and out and nodded. "It's embarrassing."

"It's not, I—" Mina left her chin and said, "I had something different to show you but we can leave it for another time, I think..." Mina slowed down and got really close, wrapping her arms around Chaeyoung's shoulders. She hugged her and it caught Chaeyoung by surprise but she didn't mind. "I think I know how you feel... sometimes," Mina kept going and talking softly, "you don't need to kiss at all." By that, Chaeyoung got the class had started, her heart felt small, she felt exposed yet safe.

Mina held her tightly and she finally relaxed under her embrace. resting her head on her shoulder. Mina remained in that position for about a minute and then moved again, without letting go. "Sometimes you just need to be soft," she said leaving a long kiss on Chaeyoung's temple, somehow it reassured her, it really felt little by little as if everything was okay. "Tender..." Mina left a kiss a bit lower. Chaeyoung's heartbeat kept beating like crazy but she was not uncomfortable, only her breath got caught in her throat. "Sometimes you just need to be held." Chaeyoung felt Mina's warm breath against her face every time she spoke and now she felt Mina's nose brushing her cheek right after she said those words and held her tighter.

Chaeyoung couldn't explain the way being held like that brought so much relief to her head. She couldn't control her breathing, but she was trying, making her breathe strongly. Finally, she used her hands to hold Mina's arm that was surrounding her. Chaeyoung was trying to not express her feelings because it was embarrassing for her, yet it was being such a hard task with the way Mina was making her feel. "I— I don't understand."

"It's okay," Mina said feeling Chaeyoung's struggle. "How you feel, it's okay." She kept leaving kisses here and there between Chaeyoung's temple and jaw. With every kiss Chaeyoung relaxed and stopped holding back, she could feel tears in her eyes and Mina felt them too because she moved a bit back and gave her a kind look. "That's okay too."

Chaeyoung closed her eyes, seeing Mina was even more embarrassing. "I'm sorry, it's— it's so embarrassing." Yet, she couldn't help it and it made it the second time Mina had seen her like this, as she showed a few of her tears at the dance.

Chaeyoung felt Mina joining their foreheads with a hand on her head and whispered, "It's not, we all just need to be cuddly sometimes and cry just because."

Tears kept streaming down her face. Mina didn't back away. Chaeyoung dared to open her eyes after a moment. Mina had her eyes closed too, her brows furrowed. Almost like she was worried about her. Chaeyoung voiced her thoughts, "Why do boys have it so easy?"

Mina chuckled and opened her eyes, moving back but not letting go of her head. "Society," she simply answered.

It was not fair for Chaeyoung's mind. "I hate it."

"Yeah?"Mina asked and Chaeyoung nodded almost pouting, crying made her lips quiver.

"I've been around for years," Chaeyoung talked with noticeable frustration, "yet he comes here and it's like he is so entitled. It makes me feel— it makes me feel—" Her breath failed for that one, Mina wiped her tears as she talked. "Sick."

"There's no comparison, I'm sure you are better either way."

Chaeyoung scoffed and sniffed. "That's e-even worse, he is actually so n-nice and respectful, he is even s-shy like what the hell? How i-is it fair? If I were a b-boy—"

"No, god, no," Mina hurried and left her face to hug her again, this time Chaeyoung hugged her back, hiding in her neck, she sobbed quietly. Mina caressed her back firmly. "Don't think that, I know something you have that makes you just fantastic."

"W-what?" Chaeyoung backed away to look at her with curiosity.

"Amazing kissing lessons."

Chaeyoung laughed. She actually laughed out loud in the middle of her tears. Not many people managed to make her laugh but for some reason, Mina was hilarious to her. It always surprised Mina whenever she laughed at things probably because she was sure they were not that funny. "He is a bad kisser," Chaeyoung said with her crying voice mixed with the recent laughter.

"He is," Mina kissed Chaeyoung's forehead and let go of her slowly. "Is it gone?" Chaeyoung nodded and wiped all her remaining tears away. "You are human, cute dimples, is okay to feel needy sometimes. Take it as part of the lessons, okay? Kissing isn't everything."

And Chaeyoung understood today's lesson. As embarrassing as it had felt, she weirdly trusted Mina. And the senior had such touch and delicate words for her all the time. Ironically, though, as soon as Mina said that, Chaeyoung couldn't help but glance at her lips. Mina caught her, of course she did, so Chaeyoung looked away quickly. "Thank you," Chaeyoung tried to answer as if glances had not happened. "I didn't know how much I just needed to be held."

Mina nodded knowingly. "I'm glad you told me all this, I'm glad you called, it makes me happy to help."

Mina talked so calmly all the time, Chaeyoung wondered how she did it. Chaeyoung wondered... just as she glanced at her lips again. This time Mina pointed it out.

"Do you want to kiss me?" They were in a kissing lesson, Chaeyoung shouldn't feel embarrassed, so she nodded, without diverting her gaze from her lips. "Do you want to do it or should I?" Mina moved her hand up, holding Chaeyoung's chin. Chaeyoung liked feeling guided.

"You."

As soon as she said that Mina got closer, different this time, and lifted her chin as she leaned down. Chaeyoung was so ready, she couldn't lie how she had wanted this again since it first happened, she had no idea kissing could be that addictive.

This time, though, as she was waiting for the contact on her lips, it happened next to them. Mina kissed the corner of her mouth first and then it caught Chaeyoung by surprise when Mina caught her lips for real. She had not been ready and it was so much better than expected.

She had learned to open her mouth, so she did just a bit, allowing their lips to brush and caressed each other just like Mina taught her. But before she could really get into it, Mina left her mouth, kissing her cheek, going from her lips to her head and back slowly but with strong reassuring kisses each time. Chaeyoung felt the air was low again and had to use her hands to hold Mina's waist, who moved from Chaeyoung's jaw to catch her lips again, deepening the action with her hand on Chaeyoung's nape.

Chaeyoung loved to feel their lips like that. Her head could only think of how wonderful the action felt and how much she wanted to show it to Dahyun.

'Dahyun' Chaeyoung closed her eyes tighter and brought Mina closer by the waist. She was thinking of Dahyun and that encouraged her to enjoy the kiss at its maximum. Picturing Dahyun's lip's against her own, Dahyun caressing her neck, kissing her jaw and temple so tenderly as Mina had done. Chaeyoung couldn't get enough of that fantasy.

It was only broken when she felt the delicate fingers under her chin again and she knew that was not Dahyun.

"Feeling better?" Mina asked so close to her lips.

"Definitely," Chaeyoung tried her best to speak clearly. She wanted to keep the kiss going, she was about to do it herself but Mina backed away and got up.

"Alright, then, I think it's all for today."

The lack of her touch and closeness brought Chaeyoung back to the real world in just a second. She cleared her throat. "Would you, uh, show me what you were first going to show me?"

"Now?"

Chaeyoung got up too and walked a bit. "No, we can't now, it's about to be six but I... was wondering if we could have more classes you uh, said there's plenty to learn and if you have the time and willingness, then I would love to learn."

"Such a good student," Mina said smiling. Chaeyoung felt a bit of sarcasm but it was true she was so she dismissed it. Although she couldn't lie this whole Mina actually acting like a teacher, brought new sensations to her as if it was possible. "Okay, we can," Mina nodded and started walking too, "but I want something in return this time."

Chaeyoung feared what she could ask for. But she knew it was fair. "Okay, tell me."

Mina passed by her and got near the small desk with Chaeyoung's things. She held up a single glove, studied it carefully, and put it down. Then she turned to the punching bag. "I want to actually exercise."

"Really?" Chaeyoung was surprised. Mina had previously shown zero interest in that.

"No," Mina said confusing Chaeyoung even more. "Actually I don't but I think I might enjoy seeing you practice, next class you'll practice first, deal?"

It was not a normal request. Chaeyoung felt shy, no one ever sees her practice. Practice is her alone time. Yet she had shared a lot with the senior already and she owed her. Besides, it was an easy price, she could do it. right? "I'm a bit... shy."

"I have had your tongue in my mouth, I'm sure you can show me a few punches."

Chaeyoung got visibly red but found it funny at the same time so she laughed awkwardly and accepted. "Okay, tomorrow at five?"

"I can't tomorrow. Let's see Monday."

That meant waiting all through the weekend, Chaeyoung felt she missed the contact already. But she nodded. "Okay, Monday at five." She looked for her phone and typed the date.

"Do you always do that? Write your appointments and..."

"Things to do, yes. Clear agenda, clear mind," Chaeyoung smiled and Mina just looked at her with her brows slightly furrowed.

She couldn't wait to see what Mina had to show her. She couldn't wait to discover what plenty meant. That night she had no trouble sleeping, just picturing the kiss over and over again, replacing the senior's face for her best friend. Chaeyoung forgot to remember it was Mina the one that had held her and calmed her that day. Chaeyoung forgot to remember it was Mina the one who had got rid of her uncomfortable feeling, too caught up in her dreams and desire she forgot to remember who had taken the time to just hold her as she cried. Chaeyoung forgot Mina's tender kisses keeping her sane by being too busy feeling butterflies for the one she had sworn her heart to.

Chapter Text

Three days. Chaeyoung had to endure three days to get kisses again. She had accepted she became a fan of them. She could be doing anything and the soft, exhilarating sensation of plump lips all over her face would attack her out of nowhere.

But she was relieved the weird annoying sensation from the past days was gone and if she felt it resurfacing all she had to do was think of the senior's embrace, reassuring kisses against her head and it was gone. Besides, she had started texting her. She wondered at first if Mina minded, but she just did it, and since the girl answered, she figured it was okay. When it came to the senior, Chaeyoung would assume most things rather than give them second thoughts.

The content of their texts was mainly Chaeyoung asking if she really only wanted to see her practice. Chaeyoung was not sure how would that be a good compensation for the classes. But Mina insisted. Texting also helped with Chaeyoung's anticipation.

Friday went by pretty fast but the weekend was taking so long. Not even doing homework helped. Which is what she did on Saturday with Dahyun. They studied and got all their school things done. They usually used Saturdays for that. Chaeyoung enjoyed that time. Especially because it made their Sundays clear and they could do various things, with their friends or just the two of them. Chaeyoung was hoping to spend some quality time with her, mainly because of what Tzuyu had said. Chaeyoung was not sure how Dahyun could think that given she had been trying to be even closer. Maybe she should try differently.

But she let the day pass to make it more natural and ask for plans on Sunday. Wrong move.

"How do I look?" Dahyun had knocked and walked right away through Chaeyoung's door. It was a little passed midday. Chaeyoung was making her bed. She turned to look and her smile formed immediately.

"You are beautiful."

"I know I am," Dahyun said walking closer. "But how do I look?"

Chaeyoung felt a bit silly for having said she was beautiful instead of how she looked but she couldn't help it. Dahyun looked always fantastic in her eyes. Today she was wearing high-waisted blue jeans and a striped cropped sweater. It was quite simple, yet it was perfect for Dahyun's body. To top it all, she had her silver hair loose and she was wearing glasses instead of contacts.

"Flawless."

"I knew I could count on you to boost my ego," Dahyun smiled and sat in the middle of Chaeyoung's half-made bed.

"Don't do that," Chaeyoung complained pulling from the sheets. Dahyun knew she hated that but she always did it either way.

"Would you do my make-up?" Dahyun ignored Chaeyoung's complaints and didn't move from the bed.

Chaeyoung left the sheets and walked to be right in front of her friend. "Okay," she sighed. She liked doing makeup and she did it quite beautifully but it meant being so close to Dahyun's face that it hurt her a bit.

"You're the best," Dahyun said to her as she always did. Chaeyoung liked being the best but lately, she couldn't help but think it was not the right compliment. It sounded too friendly. 'but that's what you are, friends' "Chaeng?" Dahyun called her attention by using fingers under her chin.

That simple action made Chaeyoung react. "Don't do that." She backed away too fast.

"W-why?" Dahyun sounded surprised.

"Sorry," Chaeyoung didn't mean to scare her, "it's just... sensitive area."

"Huh," Dahyun nodded slowly probably wondering how she had not known that after all these years of friendship. Chaeyoung felt silly. "Okay."

It was better to change the topic. "So, let me do my bed, I'll do your makeup and you'll tell me where we'll go today."

A long silence followed. Dahyun looked down. "Chaeng... we didn't make plans today."

Chaeyoung was aware. "But we always spend Sundays together."

"Yeah, because we are both here or the girls invite us but I made plans, I should've told you." Dahyun looked down again, it made Chaeyoung feel terrible to be making her feel like that.

"No, you're right, I should've asked sooner." Chaeyoung tried to smile. "Let's go I'll do your make-up, don't worry."

Dahyun gave her a tiny smile and they walked to the older's room. "I'm sorry, I didn't think you were so used to Sundays together, I know you don't like it when things change and—"

"Hey, it's okay," Chaeyoung insisted. She did hate it but for Dahyun she could let it pass. At least pretending now. "I'll ask from now on. Just enjoy your date." That was Chaeyoung's subtle way to know if her friend was going out with who she thought was going.

"I'm just going to the movies."

"With Angelo." Chaeyoung had started with Dahyun's makeup. She knew just how she liked it. Simple, cute, natural and with a tiny little something different.

"He asked if I wanted to go with him to this premiere." Dahyun closed her eyes for Chaeyoung. It was in that exact moment of taking care of her makeup that Chaeyoung feared the most. She had to gather all her strength to keep sane and focus on her task and not Dahyun's angel-like features. It was so easy to stare if she was not looking. "You can tag alone if you want, I'm sure I can get another ticket."

"No, go have fun, why would I go?" Chaeyoung hated the idea of them going out together but she was not going to be there in between. No one would consider that as being a good friend and Chaeyoung needed all the points in her favor for later when she confesses.

"Sometimes I get the feeling that you don't lik—"

"Ready," Chaeyoung interrupted her. "Final touch." She moved away from Dahyun's eyes and looked for lip balm. Dahyun looked at her but Chaeyoung just blinked and focused on her lips. How unfair it was to be that close and not be able to kiss her. Chaeyoung gulped and finished before she could give it a second thought. "Look." She took a mirror and positioned in front of Dahyun. "Perfect."

Dahyun stared at her reflection smiling, Chaeyoung felt glad the other topic passed. "Where is it?"

"Look around your eyes." She really liked this part.

"Can't find it this time," Dahyun frowned so Chaeyoung helped.

"Here." She used her thumb to show her, positioning it softly near the corner of her right eye.

Dahyun, still looking through the mirror, let out a soft chuckle. "Hey, there it is, I love it, thank you." Right above Chaeyoung's thumb, there was a tiny little star. Chaeyoung draws a tiny star somewhere on Dahyun's face ever since she started doing her makeup. It was their own little game. Dahyun usually feels when Chaeyoung is doing it but this time she was too distracted with their topic, therefore Chaeyoung had to help.

Slightly caressing her cheek, Chaeyoung removed her finger. "So..."

"Let's have lunch, I'll leave after."

And it was settled, Chaeyoung was losing this game. She couldn't help but feel dumb and she is not, she is sure. They had lunch with her parents and as stated, Dahyun left with the vague promise of returning soon.

Chaeyoung thought maybe she had been too distracted with Mina for a second but that was all part of the plan, too, right? Yeah. Mina was a source. A great source of knowledge.

To Mina
Is going to the movies a serious date?

Chaeyoung returned defeated to her unmade bed and plopped down on it. She had nothing better to do. And she didn't want to exercise to save energy for tomorrow. She waited a bit to see if Mina might answer right away, but she didn't, or probably, Chaeyoung couldn't keep still for more than twenty seconds. She got up and paced around her room, it bothered her as much as she tried to ignore it, so she made her bed thoroughly. Checked her phone, sighed, and watered her cactus. When she sat on the bed again, she got a text.

From Mina
Touch some grass

'What?' Chaeyoung frowned and got up to look through her window at the garden's grass. It probably meant something she didn't know, she didn't have Dahyun to ask but she was not going to ask Mina. 'maybe I could text Dahyun...'

To Mina
I just watered my cactus

She decided not to, she was better than a meddling jealous friend, she had this.

From Mina
You're so cute

'Cute? What? ugh' Chaeyoung was annoyed, with red ears and red cheeks. It was not fair. It was not fair because she said so. She hated not knowing what exactly made her cute, probably answering wrong and it was not fair because that last text only made her stomach feel weird. Weird like when she had Mina's face so close and they were about to kiss.

"Great, I won't even bother to text from now on." Really warm greeting from Chaeyoung as soon as Mina picked up.

"You like to hear my voice?"

Chaeyoung held her phone tighter. That was really not it, Mina just had a way of messing with her. "I like what you know, is it a movie date that serious?"

"Why? Wanna go?"

"Stop, no, please just..."

"I don't know about serious but it sure is dangerous."

"Dangerous? How so?" Chaeyoung fixed her position being intrigued by Mina finally being serious.

"Picture this: a dark room, the fine smell of popcorn, silence, whispers, you're next to the one you feel things for, you probably no longer care about the movie anymore as your hands reach for the same chunk of sticky popcorn, it's fun, it's cute, then someone makes a move," Chaeyoung imagined everything with Dahyun and that guy in her head, she was not liking it one bit, "the tension can obviously be felt and soon innocent touches take place, slight brushes of arms, elbows, shoulders and before you know it that thing separating both seats is gone and—"

"Okay, stop." Chaeyoung didn't want to know more.

"Wanna go now?"

Yes. Chaeyoung would love to go and sit in between them. "It doesn't have to be like that, though, right?"

"Not at all, actually I think it's a boring move, but most guys are either way, so..." Chaeyoung felt Mina was rolling her eyes saying that. She liked that Mina felt like she also did towards guys. Or maybe just one. "Don't take me to the movies unless it is to watch one."

"Wouldn't go for something else, that's what I'm paying for," Chaeyoung said as if it was obvious. "Well, thank you."

"Anytime, cute dimples. Gotta go now, bye."

"Bye," Chaeyoung barely said as the line went dead. She could only hope Angelo was not like most guys. Or was that worse? She would prefer Dahyun to be taken care of, of course.

Chaeyoung felt nervous the whole afternoon. When the sun was down, she knew it was not much until Dahyun got back but it made her nervous either way. As selfish as it sounded, she couldn't see Dahyun being all giggly easily. It hurt.

But it was not like that. When Dahyun returned she was not all excited and ready to tell Chaeyoung about her date. She got through the main door with a bucket of popcorn, keys, her cellphone and a bag. Chaeyoung was in the living room trying to find anything worthwhile on tv.

"I'm back," Dahyun sang excitedly leaving her stuff on the table in front of Chaeyoung. "Have you been lazing around all day?"

Chaeyoung didn't have time to say hi, Dahyun just sat next to her and took the control remote away from her. "I watered my cactus," Chaeyoung said remembering her only task of the day.

"You should have called Tzuyu or Momo," Dahyun disapproved. "Well, I'm here, I brought you my remaining popcorn and check the bag."

Chaeyoung obeyed while answering, "I was okay." She checked the bag and it had gummy bears. "Sweet, thanks." And then she realized, "This is your own bucket?"

"Yeah."

"Then each had their own bucket?"

"Yes, why?"

"No reason," Chaeyoung smiled feeling naively glad. It didn't mean anything but it made her feel better. "Thank you, I love these."

"I know, eat. Let's see something." Dahyun was sitting quite relaxed while browsing on Netflix.

"But you just saw something." Chaeyoung tried the popcorn.

"It's different with you." Chaeyoung's heart skipped a beat. "This looks decent enough, come," Dahyun pated next to her so Chaeyoung could be closer.

'It's different with you, but how? friendly different.' Still, Chaeyoung decided to ignore reason and be happy about it. No shared popcorn, no giggly smile, no story about kisses, just Dahyun spoiling her and spending the quality time she had been waiting for. Life was smiling at her once again. See? Chaeyoung has everything planned.

***

She woke up in her bed, it was still a bit dark. Her alarm had sounded, it was time to get ready for school. She was not sure how she got to bed but she figured she fell asleep watching the movie and Dahyun took care of the rest. She hurried to wash up and look for her things but she found her backpack was already with her things. When she walked out of her room she stumbled upon Dahyun.

"Hey, you're awake. I fixed your things in case you didn't set your alarm and had to wake you up."

Chaeyoung smiled, that was really thoughtful. But she always had her alarms set. "Thank you, it made things easier. Did I just fall asleep last night?"

They headed to the kitchen to grab some breakfast. "Yeah, you were adorable, heavy, though, I had to ask help from your dad."

"You should've woke me up, damn, am I that of a heavy sleeper?"

"Why are you surprised now? Dahyun laughed. "You always have been, come on, we are gonna be late."

Needless to say, Chaeyoung had a wonderful sleep and the smile on her face remembering Dahyun had actually returned early just to spend time with her couldn't be erased. Was she being a spoiled needy friend? Maybe. But she was enjoying every moment of it.

She got to the school's cafeteria earlier with Tzuyu that day. And once they had got their food and sat, her friend pointed it out.

"Something happened over the weekend?"

"Why? Not much."

"You just seem way happier than normal."

"Nothing, really, it was actually quite uneventful." It was the truth, but she knew she was feeling way happier. Life just seemed to be aligning for her.

"You have plans today? Tzuyu kept interrogating her as she ate her rice. But it was not out of the ordinary, they usually talked about their plans. This time, though, Chaeyoung remembered.

"Hey, Tzuyu... we've been friends for a while now—"

"I don't have money."

"Why would I ask you for money? No, I don't need money." Chaeyoung was amazed that was the first thing Tzuyu thought. Then she realized maybe it was just another expression. "I need a small favor but... would you do it if I don't explain why?"

"Uh, I mean, that really depends, I can't promise I won't be curious like..." Tzuyu looked at her suspiciously.

"I can't say. If you ask I just won't answer or maybe I'll tell you another day but please?"

"What is it?"

"Would you keep Dahyun away from home for like an hour after class?"

"Oh," Tzuyu said changing her worried face for a normal expression. "That's easy, sure why not? I was scared you might ask me something difficult. But that's easy, I was planning on asking her out either way, yeah, no worries."

It was not necessary to have the house to herself, but she preferred it that way. Just to avoid questions or just to feel less concerned. Chaeyoung smiled in relief and thanked Tzuyu, who didn't even care to ask a reason after all. That only left Chaeyoung with one thought: she was ready for another class.

This time Mina got to their meeting place at the same time Chaeyoung did, so they just kept walking immediately.

"Hey, cute dimples, did you survive that movie date?"

Chaeyoung couldn't help but smile a bit, even if the senior was mocking her. Her perfume was too familiar for her now and it only brought back good memories to her. She had no idea how oddly safe she felt around Mina. The nickname was starting to stay, too.

"Hey," Chaeyoung greeted too. "I did. I worry too much, sorry I bothered you."

"You don't bother me. I'd tell you if you did."

"That's reassuring. So... do you—"

"Yes, I actually want to see you practice, stop asking, it's my request."

That made Chaeyoung nod and keep quiet for a while as they walk. The silence was not awkward but she still decided to talk.

"Don't you have anything else to do at this hour?"

Mina glanced at her with a tiny smile and said, "You know? That sounded kind of rude, you should word it differently."

"Oh, it did?" Chaeyoung scratched her neck. "I didn't mean it."

"I know, that's why I'm explaining it to you," Mina said. "Try again."

Chaeyoung nodded to herself once again and went for it, "Shouldn't you be somewhere else?"

Mina laughed. "Okay, fair try." By that Chaeyoung knew she didn't do it right but oh, well. "I have a test tomorrow..."

"Oh, then you need to study, do you want me to help? I'm a great study buddy."

"That's sweet," Mina said. "But there's no need, thank you. I don't study, I usually just go to the test with what I learned in class and it works."

"Oh." Chaeyoung felt that was risky but if it worked for her then great. Admirable, even.

They kept walking until they got to her house. Empty house. Tzuyu said she would text her if Dahyun left earlier.

She got nervous but tried to play it cool. "So, uh, I'll go upstairs and change," Chaeyoung said seeing Mina was making way for the basement. "You can wait downstairs, I'll be right there."

She saw her nodding and ran to her room. Chaeyoung was way more nervous than she had expected. She left her schoolbag and changed her school uniform for her usual sweatpants and black sports bra. She stared at her reflection. She couldn't go down like that. She was aware she had a nice body, she really did, she made sure of it. But it was a bit too much to go like that to Mina, right? Using a shirt was going against the petition of show me how you practice but Mina didn't need to know that so that's what she did before finally walking downstairs.

She was sure she made the right decision because as soon as Mina saw her the girl complimented her. "Look at those arms! You're built, cute dimples." She blushed immediately and it would have been way worse if the compliment had involved her stomach hadn't she worn the sleeveless shirt.

Chaeyoung mumbled a thanks and looked for her equipment. She had planned to do a quick warm-up, show a few punches and skip post warm-up. It's not like she was doing much so it was okay. And they needed a few minutes for the other exercise. Which she was far more interested in.

"Is it really—"

"Yes."

"Okay." Chaeyoung gave up and figured she'll explain a few steps. "So, first of all, I have to warm up a bit. I'll do a few stretches and... yeah."

Mina was sitting on the couch with a perfect view of Chaeyoung and the punching bag at one side. She had one leg on top of the other and her legs looked so long from Chaeyoung's point of view, that she only glanced for a second and then at the senior's blonde hair. 'She really is so pretty' Chaeyoung thought, also noticing involuntary how short her skirt was. Mina gave her an encouraging look and Chaeyoung started.

She focused on stretches for her arms mainly and she tried to think it was not awkward. This was her thing, her space, it was okay. After a few minutes, she reached for her skipping rope and jumped seamlessly for a few minutes too. She was definitely sweaty by now and it was time to start with the main stuff. Mina was awfully quiet but it was not like she should say anything, right? Chaeyoung preferred it that way.

Before putting on hand wraps, she wondered if she should put on her usual music. She knew it was not a very popular genre. Maybe she should skip it for this unusual training as well. But Mina noticed her predicament.

"What is it? You're doubting again. Chaeyoung," Mina leaned forward on her sit, "just be you, I won't judge you, I already saw you crying twice and I bet you don't like it when people see you cry." Chaeyoung nodded. "See? Then we are already way beyond any lack of confidence, come on, this is your thing."

'Yeah, this is my thing' Chaeyoung smiled and turned excitedly to put on her usual classical mix. She gave a few jumps, put on her hand wraps, pressed play, put on her gloves, and shaking her head to get rid of any doubts, her training started. 'If she wants to see me, then she can see me' Chaeyoung started punching the bag keeping coordination. 'She asked for it, this is it, just training, I can do it, I'm good at it, I'm great at it' Chaeyoung started using more strength and finally forgot about being watched and focused on the music and her arms, her fists, her legs well positioned, the movements well performed, she was in her element.

Whenever she would manage to push the bag the farthest Mina started cheering for her. With oohs and a few wolf whistles. Usually, Chaeyoung would feel embarrassed but it actually made her feel encouraged. She kept going, feeling the music, her blood running, and Mina's cheers until it was enough and with a final big punch she backed away finishing the set, and gave Mina a bow just to end it with style.

Mina clapped for her. "Woow!" She said. "You really are good, cute dimples, damn."

"Thank you," Chaeyoung said a bit out of breath and then remembered she ought to give compliments back. "You are good at cheering," she said before taking a gulp of water.

Mina frowned for a second but was still smiling. "You practice a lot?"

"Regularly, yeah."

"Your arms are so toned, do you have abs too?"

Chaeyoung left her water feeling embarrassed once again and surrounded her stomach. "What? No."

"Oh... you're blushing, I bet you do."

"I— No, I—"

"Come on, show me."

"It's— No, I don't have." Chaeyoung was awful with lies.

"Okay, relax, I'll make you show me," Mina said grinning as if it was no problem. Chaeyoung was not sure what that meant but she decided to ignore it. Right now it was time for her class and they didn't have much left. "By the way, you shouldn't have hesitated, I like the music."

The comment really surprised Chaeyoung and it made her genuinely smile. She only shared this kind of stuff with Dahyun, it was nice to show it to someone else. "I'll go change, I'll be right back."

"No, stay, class is starting," Mina patted next to her.

"Uh, but I'm all sweaty."

"That's okay, I don't mind, it makes you look... quite appealing, actually."

"Uh— Are you sure?" Changing was no problem. Mina hummed affirmatively and Chaeyoung accepted just because she was intrigued about today's lesson and time was precious. She used a small towel to dry her face a bit before sitting next to Mina. "Okay." She was super ready, maybe because of all the serotonin she had produced.

"So," Mina said turning to face her. Chaeyoung had her legs crossed on top of the couch. "It's great 'cause today's lesson is thematic."

"How so?"

"Let's say... it goes pretty well with how you practiced. A bit... rough."

"Rough?"

"Mh hm, you'll see. Is it okay if I kiss you now?"

Chaeyoung was a bit surprised with how fast it was going this time but she guessed it was fine. "But how... uh— well, okay." She trusted Mina by now.

Soft fingers lifted her chin and she instinctively closed her eyes. Mina pecked her lips so Chaeyoung parted her lips capturing hers. She definitely had missed that sensation. She had been waiting since Thursday. They always started with soft pecks and then Mina lingered longer on each lip. Chaeyoung liked the consistency. She wondered how could this soft gentle kiss be anywhere near rough. The last time they kissed, it did get a bit intense, at least for her. She kept bringing her closer by the waist and their lips met with a higher speed. How could it be more intense than that? Or from the tongue kissing of the first class? Chaeyoung felt excited every second that passed.

"You're getting way better at this," Mina talked close to her lips as she backed away a bit. The first time she talked like that, Chaeyoung felt embarrassed of answering so close. Now, she liked their exchanges.

"Really?" Her eyes sparkled. She was actually happy about it.

"Mh hm," Mina said and resumed kissing.  Only for a few seconds because then she whispered, "Don't freak out okay?"

"Okay," Chaeyoung whispered too not sure why she would but the expectation was killing her.

Mina moved her fingers to her neck, holding her steady as she kneeled on the couch, probably because Chaeyoung's crossed legs were making it difficult to get closer. Mina's new position made Chaeyoung lift her head to keep the kiss going. She really liked how Mina had her head in her hands. Then something already familiar happened, Mina use her tongue to brush her lips, so Chaeyoung did as learned and opened her mouth a bit more but Mina didn't use her tongue further, instead, she caught her lower lip with her teeth, biting it and releasing it in just a second. As asked, Chaeyoung didn't freak out, but she was surprised and that made her move both hands to Mina's hips.

"Wha—" Chaeyoung babbled staring at Mina who was smiling. "That's allowed?"

"It is," Mina sat on her own folded legs and gave her that look she always had for her, between tenderness and amusement, "only if your partner wants, of course, but they do, usually. Do you?"

Chaeyoung left Mina's hips. "I'm not really sure, maybe..."

"Okay," Mina said lifting her upper body again, as well as Chaeyoung's head and kissed her immediately.

This time Chaeyoung knew what was coming, still, Mina made her open her mouth in the most gracious ways. Chaeyoung really understood by now how everything was just a game. And when she thought the biting would take place, Mina didn't use her teeth but sucked on Chaeyoung's lower lip and it really caught her by surprise, once again having to hold Mina's hips. This time she could tell, she had really liked that.

"How about that?"

"Great."

Mina kept kissing her after that exchange and finally, Chaeyoung felt how she bit her lip again, this time pulling from it a bit before releasing it. It made her close her eyes tighter and when Mina backed away she opened them amazed.

"You did like it." Mina didn't need to ask.

"I did." Chaeyoung licked her lips and only wanted more. "How is that good? It really makes me feel... stuff."

"Stuff?" Mina raised her eyebrows.

"Well, yes, I don't know, don't you?"

Mina looked aside for a second and Chaeyoung could swear she noticed a bit of pink creeping on the senior's cheeks.

Mina cleared her throat and looked back at her. "Wanna try?"

"The biting?"

Mina nodded and leaned closer as Chaeyoung nodded as well. She was ready to try, it was one of her favorite parts. She was not sure how but it really felt different when Mina was showing her something than when she was expecting something from her. She had control now. So she did what she felt like doing and started with a slow kiss.

Just enjoying how good it felt to brush each other's lips. It amazed her how she felt she couldn't get bored of it. But time passed and she knew Mina was waiting so she acted. Chaeyoung had really liked it, more than the biting so she did it first. She made Mina part her lips more and sucked strongly on her lower lip. It made Mina pull Chaeyoung closer from her nape and then one of her hands moved lower, to hold Chaeyoung's arm. Specifically her bicep. Chaeyoung knew it was just her arm but she liked the contact. And Mina seemed to enjoy it as well. Chaeyoung sucked her lip again after leaving a few sloppy kisses and finally bit it. Mina held her arm tighter and Chaeyoung barely realized how she pulled from Mina's hips, uncrossed her legs and made her sit on her lap. Mina had to hold tight again, to Chaeyoung's arm and neck, as not to fall.

They didn't stop the kiss and Chaeyoung felt light-headed from Mina's hand caressing her neck and molding her arm, almost as if she was enjoying how strong Chaeyoung was. It made her feel more stuff, she had no idea why it produced that, feeling Mina enjoying her muscle.

"Was it okay?" She asked for feedback for the biting, barely leaving Mina's lips.

"I don't know, try again," Mina said rapidly and joined their lips again. Chaeyoung felt that was a lie but she needed feedback so she did it again, this time like Mina did last and pulled as she bit too. She felt Mina's hot breath stronger against her face while doing so, it only encouraged her more and she had to use her tongue this time. Mina immediately allowed her and joined her in her intentions.

Mina kept feeling her arm and Chaeyoung kept her steady by the waist. The biting was forgotten but they kept kissing deeply and taking turns sucking on each other's lips. Chaeyoung really really liked that action.

Thinking about how much it made her feel Mina's interest in her arm muscle, she thought maybe Mina was right and showing her abs was going to come voluntarily. But that thought only lasted a second, she would feel shy about it. Although, her brain couldn't help but make the quick connection. 'Dahyun has seen my stomach...' She for sure would show it to her. Dahyun was always complimenting her body, too. Would she like her muscle as Mina did? Would she like the lip biting? Would she hold on tight to her neck? Chaeyoung needed to find out. Kissing her, having her, feeling her was becoming a must each lesson she got. Mina made her want more and more. Of Dahyun. Chaeyoung could only think of Dahyun. Which was a comfortable fantasy. Dahyun's lips, Dahyun's legs, Dahyun's waist. Dahyun holding her.

Until Mina bit her lip again and she liked it so much she couldn't take it.

"Mina," she said totally breathless.

"Yeah?" Mina said without much air too, staring at her with half-lidded eyes. The hand on Chaeyoung's arm, moving to her shoulder, holding it strongly too.

"How many lessons can we have?"

As soon as she said that, Mina's expression changed and Chaeyoung felt she had popped a bubble surrounding them. "Why?"

But Chaeyoung didn't mind, she needed a number. "I need to be ready, is there more to learn? How many lessons can you do?"

Mina's hold was gone, she moved away from Chaeyoung's lap standing up. "I don't know."

"Please, I need a number, I need to organize this, I really need to feel this again."

"Feel it again?"

"Yes, with her, I need to tell her, I can't keep it." Chaeyoung had enjoyed the biting so much pretending it was Dahyun, she wanted the real thing. But for that, she needed to complete her lessons and be ready.

Mina walked a bit and collected her bag. "Do you always think of her?"

Chaeyoung lifted her head to look at Mina, wondering if Mina's voice had changed for a reason or not. "Like in general...?"

"When we kiss, do you always think of her?"

"Well, uh," Chaeyoung blushed a bit but Mina knew about her feelings so, "yes."

"Right, well, I should go."

"I know," Chaeyoung said not perceiving Mina's seriousness. "It's about to be six, that's why I stopped."

"Of course it is," Mina said through gritted teeth.

"What?"

"Nothing—"

"Would you tell me a number?" Chaeyoung got up too now.

"Chaeyoung, I don't have time, I don't know." Mina started walking upstairs.

Chaeyoung followed. "Please. Is it five? Four? I—"

"I don't know, Chaeyoung! I don't have all the time in the world for you." Mina stopped in the middle of the stairs and looked annoyed. Frustrated even. She passed a hand through her hair sighing and turned to leave again.

Chaeyoung couldn't understand what was so wrong. So she followed even if being yelled at by her felt weird. "I know, but—"

"I'll let you know, just don't insist, bye." Mina got to the door and avoided Chaeyoung's eyes and the attempt to reach for her as she closed the door leaving fast.

Chaeyoung missed her presence, remembering how nice it had been to feel her weight on her lap. Chaeyoung was not sure why she left like that. It was time, yes, but the reaction was out of place, Chaeyoung just needed a number. And she was going to get one. She needed to organize everything to get to kiss Dahyun after an epic love confession.

Going back downstairs, Chaeyoung decided to keep training. Hitting the punching bag until the feeling of the rough warm kisses left her mind and she could relax for the rest of the day. Or maybe, she was not going to achieve it until Mina gives her a number.

But days passed and Mina didn't reply to a single text or call. Chaeyoung was feeling anxious and not knowing why awfully guilty.

Chapter Text

Thoughts were attacking her mind. Why would the senior ignore her? At least she could say hey, we can't have more classes and that's it but instead, she said she'll let her know. Well, it's been days and Chaeyoung hates things unplanned.

She always has things super organized and it's great. But since Mina appeared, out of nowhere she insists, her plans never seem to take place correctly. It made her wonder if she was doing something wrong, but she was doing everything just the same. Studying, exercising, organizing her agenda, eating well, and being in love with her best friend, everything was the same. Why did she feel wrong? So Chaeyoung got really inside her head.

"Mashes potatoes," Dahyun said disappointed. "Way to ruin a day." She slid the tray to the side and stared at Chaeyoung with expectation, tapping the table with her fingers.

That was all oblivious to Chaeyoung, who was too busy reliving Monday's afternoon events in her head over and over again just to study it as she, in fact, ate her mashed potatoes.

"Hey," Tzuyu said as she sat with them.

"Chaeng," Dahyun tried.

"Uh, yeah?" Chaeyoung finally looked up.

"Was she spacing out again?" Tzuyu asked if it was a normal action already.

"Yes, it's getting annoying, honestly, what's in here?" Dahyun asked knocking Chaeyoung's head.

"Nothing, why?"

"It's Wednesday yet I have no sandwich," Dahyun explained. "Although I'm not saying is your duty, of course not, but I was kind of used to and it worries me because you never forget things... did you forget or just didn't feel like it? Which I repeat, is totally okay."

"Oh." Chaeyoung looked at her phone. It was Wednesday. The food could tell her that much, too.

"Oh?" Tzuyu frowned.

"I mean... yeah, I forgot. Sorry, should I buy you something?"

Dahyun sighed. "No, don't you see? I don't really care about the food just... why did you forget? What's on your mind lately?"

"Yeah, I've noticed too," Tzuyu said. "Is everything okay?"

Everything was just fine. Chaeyoung wanted to believe that. But she was annoyed. It was more than a week since she saw or spoke to Mina. It seemed the senior disappeared as fast as she appeared. How? And most importantly, why? Chaeyoung had been fine just confused but it was okay. Until it wasn't and her patience was running out by the second. She was nervous.

"It just slipped my mind, I guess that happens sometimes," Chaeyoung said feeling bad that that might be her new self. "I'm fine."

"How's your training with Mina going?" The mention of the name so out of nowhere caught her off guard, making her sit straight on her seat.

"Why?"

"Why? I'm just wondering. It seemed a promising activity."

'quite' Chaeyoung thought. "Just... it's okay."

"So unfair," Tzuyu mumbled probably still bitter about Chaeyoung not teaching her.

"I like it, I think it's great you're sharing with other people, you know besides us and Momo. Where is she by the way?"

"Don't know," Tzuyu answered. "I should go look for her."

Chaeyoung heard everything, processing it fast. Why would Dahyun think is great for her to spend time with other people? It bother her in a way but she dismissed it quickly because the mention of Momo made her confused brain come up with an idea. A risky idea.

"I'll go," she said getting up. "I— I promised Momo I'd— Yeah." Chaeyoung got up awkwardly lifting her tray as she received the curious looks of her friends. "See you." But she left, either way, Momo not being her objective in mind.

She made her way to the classrooms, seniors' classrooms, even if she was not looking for her directly, she knew there was a high possibility of finding Mina given the classrooms were close to each other. If the senior was not answering her texts or calls, not that she had tried much, though, she didn't want to appear desperate, then she needed to talk to her.

'Blonde hair, blonde hair, blonde hair...' Chaeyoung made her way looking at everyone that passed by. For sure she was going to find Mina, right? The possibilities were high according to her wishes of wanting to see Mina. What if the senior was injured or something?

When she was about to get to the door of Momo's classroom, a few meters away, she spotted it: blonde hair. Not just any blonde hair but Mina's beautiful locks. Chaeyoung breathed out in relief.

Mina appeared to be chatting with someone, but that was no issue in Chaeyoung's mind, so she walked decisively to talk to her too. She would have interrupted the conversation if it weren't for Momo interrupting her way.

"Chaeng! I took longer, did you guys already have lunch?" Momo hugged her rapidly as she got in between her and her target.

Chaeyoung was not focused, trying to look past Momo's shoulder. "Yeah, yeah..."

"Oh," Momo said sadden. "Well, let's go, we still have a few minutes."

"Right, right..." Chaeyoung repeated the same dismissive tone and took a step to the side, obviously showing how interested she was in something else.

Momo followed her gaze and quickly talked again. "Uh... hello? No. What are you doing?" She grabbed Chaeyoung's shoulders so she finally looked at her.

"I—" Chaeyoung realized she was being silly. Reckless even. "The lessons, we need to—"

"I hate to say this, but I already warned you, Chaeng, don't get involved with her."

Chaeyoung frowned immediately. 'this again' She could befriend whomever she felt like it and that's it, no matter what anyone could say. "I know how to judge people on my own, thank you very much."

"Yes, but I'm your friend," Momo said meaning every word. It made Chaeyoung think that she should trust her friends but...

"Then what is it? What is it that people say?"

"You really haven't heard?"

"Oh my god," Chaeyoung sighed. She had been willing to hear it for a second but the words Momo used, bringing it as gossip once again, were enough for her. "No, I haven't and you know what? I don't care." She was about to leave Momo there but just then realized Mina had turned around and walked past her, completely ignoring her presence. Somehow, it annoyed her. "She— Uh, we—" She cleared her throat and avoided eye contact with Momo. It was a bit embarrassing.

"Let's just go, Chaeng." Momo shook her head dismissing the topic almost as if she had won the argument. Chaeyoung felt too confused to complain about that.

***

More days passed and honestly, Chaeyoung couldn't stop thinking about it. But she tried her best and used all her confusing thoughts to hit the punching bag. She started training on a daily basis, not just regularly. Plus, just like with the taste of that particular coffee, what had caught Chaeyoung's mind now was her own arm muscle.

She added weight to her dumbbells and put a lot of time into just that, bulking up her biceps. To get her goal, she had even set up a pull-up bar. It was not weird as long as no one knew why she was doing it.

"Chaeng! Lunch is ready." Dahyun's voice was heard as well as her steps walking down the stairs to Chaeyoung's training room.

"Be right there."

But Dahyun didn't get back and sat on the stairs to wait for her. "You've been here a lot lately," she commented.

"Yeah, I'm trying to—" Chaeyoung lifted her body now with difficulty over the bar and got back down, "get muscle."

"Why? 'Cause you're so like a noodle?"

"What?" Chaeyoung jumped to the floor and walked closer to Dahyun using a towel to dry her sweat. "I'm not like a noodle."

"You are totally like it!" Dahyun got up and laughed at her.

Chaeyoung suspected she was only messing with her but she also felt insulted so she complained. "I'm small, okay? But I'm super strong, feel," she said offering her arm to Dahyun. It was silly because you could clearly see her arms were strong and Dahyun had even seen her back and toned stomach but if you challenged her, Chaeyoung was going to bite.

Dahyun had an entertained smile and extended her hand to feel Chaeyoung's arm. The contact messed a bit with Chaeyoung's mind but she pushed it aside. "You are stronger. How is it so strong," Dahyun asked as she let go of it and added, "yet you still look like a noodle?"

"I—" Chaeyoung was about to fight for her life but Dahyun burst out laughing and ran up the stairs. "I'm not like a noodle!"

Chaeyoung loved her laugh either way. Putting something on she throttled up too to have lunch. She definitely was not like a noodle.

As the day passed bearing no news of any sort, Chaeyoung spend a lazy afternoon. She tried her best to relax and ignore the constant urge to check for new messages. Everything felt almost like a fever dream. Had she actually been making out with a cute girl as she learned how to just to hurry and confess to her best friend? Yes. She had. But how did it all happen? How did it stop? Who even was that girl.

It was not until everyone went to sleep that she prepared to sleep too and allowed her head to wonder a bit more. Questions of what had happened. And why? But also how was she? Okay, apparently. According to the last brief time she saw her.

Chaeyoung got in bed and opened her chat with the senior. It had been weeks since the last exchange and the few messages Chaeyoung had sent asking if everything was okay.

'I wish I could ask Dahyun about it. Maybe Tzuyu... Momo would only tell me to stay away— What even is that about? Mina seems like no trouble how is it that—Oh my god'

Chaeyoung sat on her bed in the blink of an eye, touching the screen before the phone could lock. A message. She had the chat opened, she panicked thinking that she had sent something by mistake. But she had not, it was indeed Mina who had sent something.

Then it got weird.

From Mina
been great
been  c
chaeyoudn

'Chaeyoundn? What the hell?' Anyone would wonder if answering so fast after weeks of nothing but Chaeyoung was not like that, she wanted answers and clear facts.

To Mina
Chaeyoudn?

From Mina
chaetojdn
chaeyound
chae

"Mina?" Chaeyoung got a call after the last attempt. "Is everything okay?"

Silence came and then Mina's giggles, Chaeyoung frowned. "Oh— It's... it worked, hi, cute dimples, what are you doing? How are you? Is— is it—"

"Mina, stop it. Have you been drinking? What's this? Are you okay? It's late."

"You rather phone calls, that's why, not because— not because I couldn't... write."

"That's not what I asked," Chaeyoung sighed. "Mina."

Mina didn't answer. You could hear her breathing. Chaeyoung could swear the senior was nervous. Or maybe she was projecting her own feelings.

"Cute dimples." Chaeyoung just hummed as an answer, feeling strange, so Mina continued, "Could I come in?"

"Wh— what?" Chaeyoung blinked and got out of bed way too fast, stamping her face against the window, to no avail because her window didn't have a view of the main door.

"It's cold, damn, I lost my jacket, I shouldn't have— I know I... I know I'm slurring my words."

Yeah, Chaeyoung could tell she was. She sighed heavily and put on a hoodie as she silently made her way downstairs. She unlocked the front door as quietly as she could and there she was. Supported against the fence with a crooked smile. It really was Mina but it was not the Mina Chaeyoung was used to seeing. Confidence was lacking.

"Cute dimp—"

"Shh," Chaeyoung hurried. "Do you have any idea how late it is? Let's go inside but please, please be quiet, alright?"

Chaeyoung was reacting. She had no idea how to deal with drunk people, she had no idea how to sneak someone in or out, she had no idea that in a way, she was glad Mina was in her presence.

With difficulty and probably not that quietly, she managed to get Mina upstairs to her bedroom. She closed the door and sighed heavily taking in the sight in front of her.

Drunk Mina, stumbling until she reached her bed, falling somehow softly and with a silly smile. Now that Chaeyoung had turned the lights on, she could see clearly how Mina was indeed wearing too few clothes for a cold night and her eye makeup...

"Were you crying?"

Mina's smile didn't fade but she seemed surprised and tried to wipe the makeup away.  "N— no. What? No, it's," she said with her hands on her face.

Chaeyoung could tell it was not going to work so she walked to her desk looking for cleansing towelettes and turned to do it herself, clearly seeing Mina was not at her best and also as a reflect, having had to do and undo Dahyun's makeup all the time.

"Here, let me," she said positioning herself in front of the girl oddly seated on her bed.

"It's fine," Mina protested and tried to cover her face. Chaeyoung insisted. "I'm— really—"

"Stay still," Chaeyoung said getting closer and removing Mina's hands, who insisted on moving and trying to cover her face. "Mina, come on," she tried softly and actually reached her face, wiping the stains away. As tender as she could given Mina was not relaxed, Chaeyoung tried to hold her head with the other hand.

"I don't— I don't want," Mina whined and Chaeyoung worried and stopped.

"What do you not want?"

"I—" Mina shook her head.

"Where were you?" Chaeyoung looked for her eyes, even if she was not that comfortable with much eye contact, with Mina was fine. The senior only looked at them briefly.

"At a party."

"Why are you alone, then?" Chaeyoung used Mina being distracted and wiped the other side.

Mina breathed in and seemed nervous. "I shouldn't have gone, I— should not be— be here."

She tried to get up, but she failed. Chaeyoung held her and only kept getting worried. Mina's hands were shaking. Chaeyoung had no idea, once again, how to deal with any of this. But Mina was breathing weirdly and she needed to do something, putting her brain to work, she realized.

Gathering all her courage, she moved closer and wrapped Mina in her arms. Tightly. Just when tears were forming in her eyes. Chaeyoung was trying to comfort her, but she would be lying if she said she didn't feel relieved herself feeling her close once again after so long.

She moved away a bit and kissed her temple longingly. "Is it— is it better?"

Mina was fighting with her breathing and seemed just as upset. "Wh— why?"

"Sometimes we just need to be held," Chaeyoung used Mina's words of the lesson she had. Chaeyoung was trying to put it into practice. She did not let go of Mina and fixed a strand of blonde hair behind her ear before leaning and kissing her again. Softly against her forehead, warm cheeks, and jaw. Nervous? She was. But she had to do something right for her. Mina sniffed and seemed to be recovering her normal breathing.

Joining their foreheads, Chaeyoung looked for her eyes again, Mina had them tightly closed as tears kept streaming down her cheeks. So she did the best next thing, using her thumbs to wipe tears away, she pressed her lips against Mina's.

Mina moved back a bit, surprised, probably. But since Chaeyoung's hands were in her head, she didn't get far. She accepted the kiss. Parting her lips slightly. It was different. One because Chaeyoung had started and two because it was... salty. Chaeyoung just kissed her lips messily and backed away.

"You— You don't have to kiss me, cute dimples," Mina said softly as they were close. So close.

"But you're upset." Chaeyoung didn't stop looking at Mina's enticing lips. Maybe upset was just an excuse.

"I—"

"You seem better," Chaeyoung whispered too, leaning down again. Testing softly if Mina accepted her lips, which she did. The kiss started slow but escalated quickly. Yes, Chaeyoung only wanted to make Mina feel better, nothing else.

Therefore, she pushed. She nibbled on Mina's lips with eagerness, until Mina opened her mouth more and their tongues, so familiar by now, found each other. It all happened so fast, Mina ended up laying on the bed. It was all thanks to Chaeyoung's efforts, so she, of course, followed and somehow, kissing laying down felt even better. She supported her forearms on the sides of Mina's head. Mina, instead, had her hands carefully under Chaeyoung's cleavage, almost trying to keep distance.

Chaeyoung got lost in the kiss, she always had many thoughts when kissing the senior. Most of the time, about Dahyun. But that was because of the lessons, this time, it wasn't a lesson. The motive was Mina. Mina feeling better. Yet, as a minute passed of them passionately kissing, like never before, she had to wonder. How was it that she always felt secure and wanting to kiss the senior? It probably was because she knew she could, right? That's what they did. Kiss. But maybe if not in a lesson it was not right. One thing is for sure, it felt nice. So nice it was confusing.

Chaeyoung stopped the kiss abruptly. They shouldn't kiss outside lessons. But she was a good student, so she left a peck signaling she was stopping and moved away from Mina's space.

"You're... better at it."

"Sorry, this is not a lesson," Chaeyoung said apologetically. "Here," she passed her hoodie over her shoulders and handed it to Mina as she stood up, "this one is warm, you're cold, you can wear it. I'll call you a ride."

Mina sat on top of the bed, her hair slightly messy now. She took the hoodie and wore it but she looked down after. "Chaeyoung," she tried. "I don't— I don't really want to go."

"Oh." Yeah, Chaeyoung should've realized that much. There was a reason Mina went to her house and not her own. She lacked touch once again. "Sorry. I— I don't really, I—" Chaeyoung sighed and came up with a plan. "Okay, sleep here, I can wake you up in a few hours, we have school but I can wake you up in time for you to go home and get your uniform and stuff, okay," Chaeyoung walked to her closet getting another hoodie and walked to the door. "Just—"

"Wait," Mina interrupted her. "Where are you going?"

"Downstairs, it's fine, I've slept there before, the sofa is actually—"

"Don't go, please," Mina hurried and even if she still sounded quite drunk, it was obvious to Chaeyoung that the girl was mostly upset. "Stay here."

"Don't worry, it really is no trouble."

"Please don't make me say it again." Mina looked down and fixed her hair. "I don't want to be alone."

Chaeyoung gulped. She felt useless and she wanted to help. Once again Mina had wrecked her plans completely. Turning off the lights, she walked back to bed. Mina got inside and moved to the side. Chaeyoung got in too but remained sat. Breathing slowly.

The silence was loud. She felt the need to break it.

"Are you still cold?"

Mina chuckled and got on her side, closer to Chaeyoung. "Are you cold?"

"No, why?"

"Then I'm not either."

"Why does that—"

Mina laughed softly again and moved even closer to support her head in Chaeyoung's lap. "Were you not making out with me just now?"

Chaeyoung didn't answer. It surprised her that Mina even upset and drunk had the power to mess with her.

"I was."

"Kissing is not the solution for everything, by the way, maybe I gave you that wrong impression when I met you," Mina answered just forgetting to explain to Chaeyoung what not being cold had to do with them making out.

But, yeah. Mina had tried to kiss Chaeyoung when they met just to make her feel better but maybe the situation merited it. Although Mina had used it again and now... Chaeyoung felt it worked.

She felt curious. Moving carefully she laid on her side too, both girls now covered under the sheets up to their shoulders.

"But it works."

"Does it?"

"You do seem better." It couldn't be any other reason. Chaeyoung knew cause and effect. Kisses make it better, that's what she had learned. And sometimes, being soft.

Mina stared into Chaeyoung's eyes. It wasn't awkward. Chaeyoung had got used to her. It's hard for her sometimes to make eye contact or be around anyone but Mina was no longer anyone.

"You do know I'm drunk, right?"

"I only tasted tears," Chaeyoung answered without thinking twice about what she was saying.

"You taste our kisses?"

"I—" Chaeyoung felt exposed but it was the truth. Mina giggled once again.

"Wanna try again? Have you tried flavored vodka?"

"No," Chaeyoung gulped unconsciously. She felt Mina closer and her heart went faster.

"Should I?" Mina whispered against her lips. Chaeyoung had closed her eyes. She was weak, it was no secret Mina's kisses made her feel great.

But after a few seconds that seemed eternal, Chaeyoung felt weight against her chest making her get on her back. Mina had snuggled up to her and seemed ready to sleep. Oddly, the proximity didn't bother her. Chaeyoung sighed.

She used a hand to caress Mina's always captivating hair. "What happened tonight?" She had to try.

Mina didn't answer, Chaeyoung thought maybe she had indeed fallen asleep but that fast? Then she just said, "People talk." Her voice broke and Chaeyoung brought her closer. Mina cried a bit again before falling asleep.

***

The next morning Chaeyoung woke up exactly when she had wanted to. But she was alone. She got up to check the bathroom and even downstairs all quietly but the senior was gone. She cursed being a heavy sleeper.

Back in her bedroom, at the feet of the bed, the yellow hoodie she had lent to her lay folded. Without realizing what she was doing, Chaeyoung took it and brought it to her nose. A barely recognizable sweet scent was felt for a second. Had the senior gone home or somewhere else? Either way, she didn't text. Just waited to go to school and find out there.

"Did you have trouble sleeping last night?" Dahyun yawned on their way to school.

"Wh— No, why?"

"I heard noises, must've been dreaming." Chaeyoung was thankful Dahyun dismissed the issue that fast, she was becoming a liar, and she didn't like that. Not to Dahyun.

"For sure..."

"So, uh... he did, by the way," Dahyun formed carefully, "join the debate team, I mean."

"Oh." Chaeyoung was surprised by the twist in the conversation. Although, she did like her friend could talk to her about such topics. "Nice."

"Yeah... he is. Nice, I mean. We do— we do share a lot— It's— we're in the same... same side for... yeah." Dahyun didn't seem nervous to Chaeyoung. To Chaeyoung, Dahyun seemed confused. She talked as if she was trying to convince someone. Was it Chaeyoung who she was trying to convince? Unclear.

"Nice," Chaeyoung repeated lamely. It was not her intention to sound uninterested, at all, she just really didn't have much to say.

Maybe just maybe her brain was distracted considering different approaches to other certain things certain blonde had made her worry about. Why was Mina so upset?

"Nice." Dahyun didn't seem to mind Chaeyoung's emotion-lacking response. She was used to her distinctive self, either way.

Chaeyoung glanced at her as they kept walking and her friend smiled. Chaeyoung quickly dismissed her burdens and smiled back, feeling better than before. She reached out her hand and Dahyun took it. It was perfect to feed her dreamy hopes once again.

Chaeyoung really loved her.

***

Luckily, Chaeyoung didn't have the time to worry about the senior during school time. She had the obligation set to herself of focusing on her assignments, of course. She was slightly getting lower on her marks, not enough to stop being number one but enough for her to notice.

It was an easy fix. Chaeyoung had it all under control, of course.

That's why it seemed as if just on queue when she marked done her last task in her phone agenda and a message popped on the screen.

From Mina
Main door, in five.

Chaeyoung smiled and got up. She was at the library with Tzuyu and Dahyun who was returning a book. She probably shouldn't have got up so fast, Dahyun was not done, but it passed unnoticed. Then she realized.

To Mina
Main? what about west?

From Mina
🙄

Well, it was settled, then. Chaeyoung didn't mind... much. She just felt a bit embarrassed picturing her friends and Mina together, but it was okay. Besides, she didn't want to walk without Dahyun who has been holding her hand all day long.

Again, as if everything was coming into place, Dahyun returned and took her hand.

"Let's go."

"I'm so hungry," Tzuyu expressed as they started to walk out.

"Let's order something, wanna come with us?"

Chaeyoung nodded at Dahyun's word, they could invite Momo as well, it's been a while.

"Really? Awesome," Tzuyu smiled.

They were about to reach the main entrance. Chaeyoung got slightly nervous. And much more when she noticed Mina was already there. Dahyun's hand suddenly felt different.

Tzuyu and Dahyun were talking, Chaeyoung got distracted. When they were about to pass Mina, and the senior noticed Chaeyoung and her friends, she cleared her throat and stopped walking.

"I— uh, I—"

"Hey, cute dimples." Mina approached them and, probably, saved her. "Hi," she said to both her friends. "Mind if I take her for a minute?"

"Hi, Mina," Dahyun smiled and let go of Chaeyoung's hand. "Sure. Come on, Tzu."

Chaeyoung was left there, slightly blushing, and missing Dahyun's hand. She needed to improve being in the presence of both girls. It was silly. She was better than that.

"You hold hands now," Mina raised her brows and smiled at her. She looked as bright as ever, no trace of her state from last night.

Chaeyoung got back to life. "No. I mean, yes. But we've always had, it's just... you know."

"Well, it's something, I guess."

"Yeah... so, how ar—"

"Listen, cute dimples, I'm sorry about last night. I was not at my best so thank you."

"You okay now?"

"Yeah, totally. I'm sorry I bothered you that late and also... I'm sorry I ignored you these past weeks, I was uh— well, sorry."

"Right," Chaeyoung had forgotten about that. "No worries, but why wo—"

"I was busy, I said I would call you about the lessons but I didn't have the time and now, I was wondering if you still wanted them, I owe you for last night, after all."

That made Chaeyoung smile wide. Yes, of course she wanted them. See? Perfect to get everything back on track. "Yes, please."

Mina scoffed and smiled at her with that look Chaeyoung was sure it came whenever she had said something questionable, but whatever. "You seem eager."

"I am, I told you before."

"Right... so, whenever you want, maybe we can have about three more? You're way better anyway, I think that's enough."

"Totally," Chaeyoung said and took her phone. "Uh... tomorrow works?"

Mina chuckled and nodded. "Yeah, okay, tomorrow."

Chaeyoung typed and heard Mina saying, "Alright, see you at five," when she walked away. It was perfect.

She returned without hiding her smile from her friends and grabbed Dahyun's hand. No one made any comment about it and they got milkshakes with Momo once they got home.

Chaeyoung forgot to wonder why Mina had been ignoring her and forgot to worry about Mina's behavior from last night. Instead, she focused on her expectations for tomorrow. She got her lessons back and she got a number. Life was great. And Dahyun's hand felt amazing.

Chapter Text

Five o'clock.

It was five o'clock yet Mina was nowhere to be seen.

Chaeyoung was tapping her foot against the white tile at the west door. She was getting slightly impatient. So much time without any encounter maybe Mina had forgotten punctuality again.

'maybe she is not coming...'

The whole morning Chaeyoung had spent it wondering what could she learn from this lesson. Now that she could actually think about it and not try to forget it filling her agenda with exercise, she was in blank.

What could Mina possibly show her? Chaeyoung was sure it had to be something even better than last time. She really, really liked it last time. What if they could do it again?

'What if it involves other places...' Chaeyoung blushed thinking about it. That could be a possibility, right? She had loved the biting, what it would feel like to bite other places? 'God, Chaeyoung, this isn't you.' It was a mystery to her how she went from never having kissed a girl to being this person that fantasizes about making out sessions with this beautiful girl. And oh, how beautiful Mina was. Chaeyoung couldn't believe she had had the girl sat on her lap, tasting each other's lips, holding her waist, feeling her warm scent and— how? In those instances, with Mina, she felt less of an awkward mess. Maybe because the senior was such a nice instructor. For sure, that was it.

"Guess who?" A soft voice interrupted her barely proper thoughts and two soft hands covered her eyes.

"You're late."

"But I'm here," Mina said and returned Chaeyoung her vision.

"Still, you know this."

"Yeah, yeah, I know you're super meticulous, but I also know you are dying to have this lesson, so you waited."

"So you're taking advantage of my eagerness to learn?"

"Right, you're motivated by educational purposes, I'll keep that in mind." Mina was mocking her, she got that.

"Please do, let's go."

Chaeyoung started walking in fast steps, they had lost a few minutes, and she disliked that. Although, somehow, and probably because of her long legs, Mina walked even faster and passed her. Chaeyoung couldn't help but smile; the girl had been late and now she was in a hurry. Chaeyoung would've trotted a bit to catch up, but she got distracted.

Mina looked so beautiful today. It's not like she had anything different, they all wore the same school uniforms, but Mina made it look stylishly. Chaeyoung had held Mina's hips and waist before, yet only now she thought about how perfect they were. Mina was not skinny nor fat. Chaeyoung didn't care either way, but Mina was somehow making her mentally drool. 'this isn't you, Chaeyoung, is just her bone structure' Yeah, that was it. Chaeyoung had told her before, that she had really good bone structure.

"Come on, aren't you worried about your precious time? We only have 'till six."

Yeah, Mina was mocking her again, but she was right. So Chaeyoung snapped out of it and caught up.

Their walk as usual didn't involve much talking. That, until Chaeyoung remembered something. "So, I believe there's a high possibility one of my parents is home."

"Oh," Mina seemed slightly discouraged.

"It's okay, we'll just go to my room."

"Oh," Mina seemed interested now. "What about downstairs?"

"Well, Dahyun won't be there and... honestly I don't care, I like lessons better in my bed. I mean— uh— Room."

Mina chuckled a bit and fixed her hair. They mindlessly walked faster. Chaeyoung knew she had let out more than she should've but at least Mina didn't question her. The truth is the other night's position still lingered in her mind and body. She wanted Mina on her bed again, as confused as that made her feel.

"Won't they mind?"

"Sorry?"

"Your parents."

"Mind what?"

"Well... me."

"Why would they? Don't worry, you just have to say hi."

Mina nodded slowly and Chaeyoung noticed certain nervousness appeared suddenly on her face; which was not Mina-like at all. Chaeyoung kept forgetting how much Mina had cried that night. Forgot to wonder how sensitive Mina actually was and how different it was from the Mina she knew from lessons. Regardless, they got to her house. If Mina was nervous, Chaeyoung remained unaware.

"Mom's here," Chaeyoung said once they got through the door. She had seen the car outside. Walking a few steps, her mother raised her head from a laptop and smiled at her.

"Chaeng, you're back." Her mother got up to greet her. She ignored the way Mina remained slightly behind her. "Did you have lunch?"

"I did, hi." Chaeyoung received the hug in a hurry. "Uh, Mom—"

"You brought a friend, hi." Her mother turned her attention to Mina. A small silence was formed, Both Chaeyoung and her mother waiting for Mina to say hi and introduce herself but nothing happened.

Chaeyoung was quick to help, though. She cleared her throat and took a step back, turning her body to Mina as well. "This is my friend, Mina, she is a senior."

"Hello, Mina, feel welcome here any time." Chaeyoung saw Mina bowing her head and keeping it low. It was odd, but she couldn't ask what was wrong right then as much as she felt like it. "You're a Myoui, right?"

Mina raised her head and moved a hand somewhere near her school tie. "Yes, ma'am, hi, thank you."

'Finally' Chaeyoung thought for a moment Mina had stopped working or something. It made her slightly nervous. "We'll be in my room," Chaeyoung stated ready to just end the unnecessary awkward presentation.

"Okay, let me know if you need anything." Her mother sat back down taking her laptop, Mina's odd behavior forgotten.

But not to Chaeyoung. Once they got through her door and closed it she frowned at her. "Why would you—"

"Class is starting," Mina said ignoring Chaeyoung as she contemplated the always perfect cactus above Chaeyoung's desk.

"Okay, but, my parents are cool, you shouldn't—"

"Chaeyoung, it's okay." Mina seemed ready to abandon the topic for the rest of their friendship. "Time is ticking."

Well, Mina for sure knew where to pressure Chaeyoung. Time was key. "Alright," she sighed. Now her stomach felt weird. It was time to figure out what was coming today.

"Do you feel like during all this time you lost the hang of it? Or are we okay to move on like a normal lesson?" Mina turned around and Chaeyoung made eye contact, she was wondering if sitting or...

'Lost the hang of it? Who does she think I am? I'm a great student, of course I did not lose the hang of it' Chaeyoung felt insulted. "Normal lesson."

"Great," Mina clapped and walked closer getting in front of Chaeyoung. "Okay?"

Chaeyoung nodded. Her heart warmed just hearing that word. The way Mina was always making sure she was fine through it all was so exhilarating. She had no idea why. Then fingers lifted her chin, of course. She swallowed hard and Mina leaned down.

They had kissed the other night. It was still fresh in Chaeyoung's mind but it was different. It didn't count.

She liked it when it was Mina guiding her and holding her chin, just like now. Closing her eyes, she finally felt Mina's breathing against her face. But the kiss was not happening. Only her heart was going a bit faster.

"I'll have to use my hands this time," Mina talked softly against her lips leaving the hold of her chin and using both hands to hold her shoulders.

"W—what?" Chaeyoung opened her eyes immediately. Only to be met with the most tender gaze ever, she felt tiny.

"Trust me."

Chaeyoung sighed and breathed out relaxing her body and closing her eyes again. "Okay." She was blindly trusting the senior, it was unbelievable. 'this is not me, what is she going to do? How—'

Mina's hands moved from her shoulder to her nape and neck slowly. Chaeyoung felt how she was pulled closer to Mina's body and then it actually happened.

Chaeyoung felt relieved. Not many things made her feel like that. Boxing, managing her agenda, being with Dahyun, skittles, handing in assignments... and Mina's kisses. Probably because it meant her agenda was going accordingly, right? One step closer to confessing her true feelings. Which were...

"Is your mom really cool with us making out here?" It was a question with a tone of laughter. Mina was, once again, playing with her. Talking softly against her lips.

Chaeyoung didn't open her eyes. She frowned. "She doesn't know that."

"Look at you, who would've thought? Straight-A student Son Chaeyoung hiding a girl in her room."

"I'm not hiding you."

"You did the other night... Thank you." Mina leaned down again a captured her lips tenderly. Something was different. No alcohol or vainilla coffee. Just Mina's coconut lip-balm, probably.

What was different? What was she going to learn? Nothing, apparently. She needed to protest but she had forgotten how weak on the knees she feels when Mina is kissing her that slowly. Then she got rigid. Mina's fingers moved from her nape and neck to her blouse and tie. Weak on the knees or not, Chaeyoung's body stiffened. Mina took the collar of her blouse and lifted it up, taking it out from the perfect folded way she tries to accomplish every morning. It was nothing, right? 'It's okay, I can take this, she is not doing anything, I shouldn't stop her... should I? Mina always asks permission to do something different' Chaeyoung felt so nervous, she was, probably for the first time, afraid to ask. Then Mina pulled a bit from her tie, it was enough to make Chaeyoung talk, and open her eyes. "H—hey."

"You're so tense," Mina said still fidgeting with Chaeyoung's tie. "I won't do anything you don't want."

"What are you going to do?"

"Untie this. May I?"

Chaeyoung stared at Mina's fingers playing with the fabric, her jaw could feel the grazing of her school blouse, it was nothing, really, how come her heart was going so fast? Then it clicked in her brain. Something that she was always subconsciously doing, this time hit on another level.

Comparing. Dahyun's touch and Mina's. Wondering if Dahyun's kisses would be like this. But now, there was something else. She was comparing both sensations.

'Untie'

Dahyun is always tying her tie. It feels amazing.

Now Mina wants to untie it. It feels...

"Yes." Chaeyoung was so into whatever was happening to her. Yes, she is always trying to have everything organized. Everything neat and precise. Dahyun helps with that. Now, since Mina appeared, her plans seem to always go the other way, she has had to come up with unexpected solutions for Mina. And she is not bothered by it. 'this isn't you'

'Untie'

Mina's hand worked slowly and effectively, pulling from one side, making the tie loose, not taking it away fully, just lower.

"You're thinking about something."

"I'm not."

"You are," Mina looked for her eyes, her hands still around her tie, "what is it?"

"The lesson, what's this?"

"Already started," Mina said as if scolding Chaeyoung for not paying attention. In a second, Mina pulls again from the tie, stronger this time, making Chaeyoung get so close and catch her lips in a swift movement. Chaeyoung breathes into the kiss, she never does that. But she is... craving for it. For more. Mina's left hand keeps her tie there and her right hand, goes up, to her nape, keeping her in place too and scratching it slightly. 'this lesson is definitely advanced' Chaeyoung thought. And she was more than okay with it. It was different. She felt closer to Mina, not physically.

She felt trapped and she liked it. Mina's lips firmly caressed her own until the senior broke the kiss and started leaving a trail of kisses along her jawline, Mina has done that before, so Chaeyoung was not surprised. Until she felt Mina's breath against her ear for a second, sending shivers down her spine and right after, Mina's lips pressed against her neck.

Chaeyoung sighed heavily, she couldn't help it. "W— what..."

"Neck kisses," Mina said against her neck. "That's today's lesson."

"Th—that was quite an introduction," Chaeyoung stuttered just as Mina moved somehow to the other side of her neck leaving kisses there as well. Chaeyoung helped by giving her space, moving her head to the other side without even realizing it. With every kiss, she felt her breathing getting faster. Then Mina stopped and Chaeyoung opened her eyes.

"You liked them."

"I did."

"Neck kisses are crucial," Mina got on her instructor mode, "your neck is one of the many erogenous zones."

"Kinda noticed," Chaeyoung laughed nervously. Mina smiled at her. It was a tender smile. Mina always had those for her.

"I just kissed you, though," Mina kept explaining. "In the moment, you can also suck your partner's neck, bite it—gently bite it," she reworded, "and it might even leave a mark, which, even though feels nice, you always have to ask, okay? Not everyone likes to show those. If you do it visibly."

"Huh," Chaeyoung processed the information quickly. "Is it hard?"

"What is?"

"To leave a mark, is it hard?"

"It's a challenge," Mina considered as if recalling the event. "Tricky."

A challenge. Chaeyoung liked those. "I can do it."

Mina giggled at Chaeyoung's immediate response. "Sure you can."

"I mean it."

"It really is a bit difficult, cute dimples, I'm not saying you're not able, it just is." She tried to reason with Chaeyoung as she kept smiling at her and sat on the bed. It was a simple action but Chaeyoung got flashbacks and sat as well a bit too fast. Mina noticed. "Oh."

"What?"

Mina smirked. A big smirk judging Chaeyoung. "You really liked the bed part."

Chaeyoung felt her cheeks burning and suddenly turning away and staring at her cactus was the best thing she could do. Is not that easy to get her to feel embarrassed but if she was it was evident. She is not afraid to admit it, though. "I did."

"Well, wanna try? Or is it okay just that?"

Time. It was not even close to being six. Chaeyoung wanted a thorough lesson. Of course she wanted to try.

"I do," she looked at Mina again, "show me."

"I just showed you," Mina recalled. "Be gentle. Start with a kiss."

Chaeyoung's hands were a bit sweaty. She fixed her school skirt and took a few breaths. It was a bit much but she really wanted to. Mina waited patiently. She didn't say a thing, only waited. Chaeyoung appreciated that. She was going to do it, she just needed to relax.

She tapped her fingers against her lap for a few seconds and then looked up at her board. All the dates were there. It seemed in order. 'Reading test, student council meeting, math test...' She sighed and turned back to Mina. The senior was simply looking at the board too, she didn't seem in a hurry. "Okay."

"Okay," Mina smiled at her and got closer to help her.

Chaeyoung used her hand to cup Mina's face and bring her closer. Once again their lips met. She shouldn't have been nervous, the kiss helped too. It was a bit scary when she was controlling it, but she could do it. She had to. She even went a bit further and dared to use her tongue. Mina seemed surprised and she let out a little hum. But the kiss didn't break. Until Chaeyoung felt Mina pulling from her own school tie and lifting the collar of her blouse for her. She was glad, one because for some reason her stomach felt things seeing Mina do that and two because she might have not been able to. So she moved a hand to Mina's nape and just went for it, leaving tiny kisses along her neck. She liked it. 'easy enough' So easy enough, she got back to Mina's mouth and kissed her with more intensity. She just maybe, maybe had a reason. Mina didn't stop her so she focus on her goal and kissed her the best way she could, going from one lip to the other, sucking on her lower lip and insisting with her tongue, until she finally moved the hand on Mina's neck, to Mina's shoulder and pushed.

She has wanted that since they got inside the room. Mina laying on her bed. Kissing Mina while laying on her bed. Mina giggled against the kiss once she got lowered by Chaeyoung. Chaeyoung ignored it and positioned herself better, getting back to Mina's jaw and neck. She felt Mina's hand curling her hair and it was even better than she had imagined. She barely realized she had started sucking on her neck.

"No." Mina cupped her face and lifted her up. "No marks."

"But I can do it."

"Chaeyoung," Mina sighed, probably annoyed but she couldn't tell, "I'm not saying you can't."

"Then—"

"Okay, okay." Mina pushed Chaeyoung away and sat a bit on the bed again. She removed her tie completely and started unbuttoning her blouse so fast that Chaeyoung had no idea what was happening. It was far too late to ask or react once Mina had her blouse open and the only thing Chaeyoung could see was her grey bra. "Here. Wanna prove you can do it? You can, but only here."

"H—here where?" Chaeyoung had shifted her gaze to her own hand holding her weight on the bed.

Mina lifted Chaeyoung's chin. "On my chest, low enough to hide it, if you don't want to, it's okay, you were the one that—"

"Okay," Chaeyoung said. "Okay." She nodded her head and hovered above Mina once again, completely ignoring how nervous she was. She joined their mouths and despite having being complaining, Mina didn't hesitate to wrap her arms around Chaeyoung, caressing her back and head. Once again, Chaeyoung breathed against the kiss, air seemed less today. But whenever she did that, Mina would hold her tighter, it was really nice. So she went again, she could. No, she wanted to. She needed to. Whenever she got something on her mind, there was no other way around it. She needed to prove she could do it.

One kiss, two kisses, three kisses, and Mina seemed to have less air too. Chaeyoung looked at her, she had her eyes closed so she kept getting lower. Another kiss, another breath. When she kissed Mina's collarbone, she felt fingers scratching her head. Then she noticed Mina's necklace, shiny, golden and delicate. Same letters M from her pin. Mina liked it, apparently. 'pretty' And when she finally got to her target, her heart beating like crazy, she started sucking on it. Trying to ignore the fact that she was kissing Mina on a place like that. She was not sure if she was doing it right, but Mina gasped. She looked up, the senior's eyes were still closed, her chest unaffected by Chaeyoung's attempt. 'Damn, maybe it really is hard'

But she couldn't give up, she fixed her weight and tried again. Stronger this time, longer, and she stopped. And did the same. And once more. And Mina's chest rose and fell faster each time. And then— "Look!" Chaeyoung moved back with a big smile. "I did it!"

Mina opened her eyes hearing her and moved a hand to her hair, passing her fingers and sighing. "You did it," she said barely looking, breathless.

"But look," Chaeyoung frowned feeling ignored. She had done it.

Mina licked her lips and actually stared at it. "Well done, cute dimples," she said. "But come here."

"Where?" She barely could ask when Mina, who had sat on the bed, kissed her again, and pushed her immediately, making her be against her bed now. She gasped and followed the kiss happily. She felt rewarded. One step closer to confessing her feelings, which were...

Mina had her body so tightly pressed against hers. Their mouths were so closely joined together, she barely had space to breathe. And she really needed to breathe. That's why when Mina moved to her neck, she lifted her head immediately and gasped for air. Right after that, she felt Mina's hand on her body, not her arm, not her chin, but her stomach, unbuttoning her blouse from the bottom. She didn't stop her, she wanted to know what was she doing, she wanted to feel more. Maybe Mina had been right and she was going to end up showing her abs. It was an exciting thought. She wanted air.

Chaeyoung started panting, feeling Mina breathing and kissing against her neck and then one of her hands moved inside her blouse to her side, caressing with her fingertips. Her body moved up without realizing it, her hands held the covers tight. "I—" Chaeyoung wanted to apologize, she was reacting without wanting to. It was unfamiliar. But so, so nice.

Mina noticed, talking against her neck, "It's okay." And her fingertips became a whole hand grasp of Chaeyoung's waist making Chaeyoung's little breaths transform into a perfectly audible moan. She panicked.

"I— I'm sorry, I—"

"No, no, shh, cute dimples," Mina left her neck to reach her eyesight. "It's okay, really, it means you like it."

"But—"

"It's okay, I like it— I mean, the more pleasured you look, the more pleasurable is for your partner."

"Really?"

"Yes. Don't be ashamed. Should I continue?" Mina asked but it felt more like she needed to. Something had shifted.

Chaeyoung just nodded, she was not trusting her voice. She understood what Mina had explained, but it was a bit embarrassing, she wanted to control her body and sounds. How come she couldn't?

Mina returned to her neck going slowly through her jawline and pulled more from her tie, reaching her collarbone, as much as she tried, Chaeyoung's battle for air was not something she was winning today. Mina's hand on her waist moved again and along with it, Chaeyoung's whole body moved upward again. Mina seemed to like that because as soon as that happened she kept caressing Chaeyoung's waist where it felt better.

"I—" Chaeyoung couldn't talk, another moan escaped her lips, Mina bit her neck. "Mi—Mina—Ah—"

"Mhh," Mina hummed against her neck and caressed Chaeyoung's side going up and down softly.

That was it. Chaeyoung couldn't control it, it seemed such a simple action, but Mina's hand seemed to just know where to touch her. She couldn't help how an even louder moan left her mouth and suddenly it all stopped. Mina moved back in an instant, her cheeks tomato-red, her eyes blinking fast. "That's— That's it for today's lesson," she said.

"It's not six yet."

"I forgot to tell you I have to— to study, yeah," Mina said getting up and away from the bed, "I do, I— sorry, cute dimples, I'll see you next time, I totally forgot."

'That's odd' Chaeyoung frowned. Mina says she never studies, plus, she had said they had until six. How could she have forgotten? "Do you want any help?"

"No, no, it's cool." She buttoned up and fixed her tie in a second.

"Okay..." Chaeyoung was confused and mad at the sudden change but she couldn't force Mina. "Let me walk you out—"

"No, I— I know where the exit is." Mina reached the door and waved a last goodbye before she closed the door.

Chaeyoung felt her quick steps and then silence. She was left alone, twenty minutes to six, half her blouse undone, her tie completely loose, the lingering sensation of soft lips against her neck and an unknown tingling sensation on her stomach. She had really enjoyed this lesson but it left a bad taste. Because it had not finished properly and even if she had trouble realizing those things, Mina seem bothered by something. She must have done something wrong.

Chaeyoung sighed heavily and changed clothes in a second before running downstairs and some more, put on some old wraps and looked for her red gloves. She didn't warm up. 'it counted as exercise' she thought, so it was fine. As shy as it made her feel, she was already warm enough to start punching the bag like a normal training. While training, specifically hitting the bag, nothing else mattered. It was only Chaeyoung and her thoughts flowing just like she wanted them. It was liberating.

One, two punches. Mina grabbing her tie.

One, two punches. Mina whispering against her neck.

One, two, three punches. Mina's eyes staring down at her.

Mina's breathless sight wouldn't leave her mind. One, two, three, four punches. Mina stopping.

That was, surprisingly, the worst part. Realizing that, Chaeyoung kept punching the bag over and over again until she felt tired enough.

She needed a shower. But on her way up, she found Dahyun. As lovely as ever, still in her uniform, Chaeyoung glanced at her tie and then met her eyes.

"Good training?"

Chaeyoung gulped nervously. She felt as she had betrayed her. 'which training?'

"Refreshing as ever," Chaeyoung smiled. Her best smile always for Dahyun. "I'll go shower now."

"You better go, smelly noodle."

Chaeyoung scrunched up her nose and kept walking. "Gotta get better with friendship nicknames," she mumbled to herself. She showered and as confusing as it had been, she was okay.

It was just another lesson, right? She learned stuff. It was okay. At least, that is what she kept repeating. After dinner, she was ready to forget all about it by sleeping when her door opened.

Dahyun hardly ever knocked on her door, Chaeyoung didn't mind but now she got startled. "Dub! Hey, learn to knock."

"When have I ever— Chaeng, are you going to sleep?"

"Yeah, what else...oh"

Chaeyoung felt stupid. Even dumb. How could she have forgotten? She even saw it on her board earlier. What could possibly have her this distracted? Were Mina's lessons that time consuming? Energy consuming? Was her brain losing its intelligence one kiss at a time?

"Math," Dahyun answered. Chaeyoung could tell now, looking at her friend with her course book and calculator.

"Right, I—"

"Maybe you already studied, it's okay, I can study by myself but since you like it when we do and..."

"No, no, stay," Chaeyoung said moving quickly to her desk, looking for her book and own notes.

Dahyun sat on the bed. "Were you with Mina earlier?"

"Wh— uh, I— Yes."

"Mom told me, were you training?"

"Yes." Chaeyoung was noticeably nervous.

Silence followed as Dahyun started spreading her notes on the bed. Chaeyoung felt she needed to wait for Dahyun to say something.

"You know... I was with Momo earlier and she just mentioned that I should tell you to be careful around Mina—"

"Oh, please!" Chaeyoung, not knowing why, reacted immediately and loudly. She was mad. "You all gotta stop, you don't know her as I do."

"You know her well?"

"I do" She didn't.

"How so?"

Chaeyoung gulped. She didn't really know Mina. But she liked to think she did, right? Enough to believe she couldn't have done anything that bad for people to ask her to be careful. Careful of what? "I just do."

"I trust Momo... I don't know anything but if she—"

"Stop, okay? She is not a bad person." She was actually really helpful.

"Do you like her?"

"Do I— What? Li— Like her? Dub, what are you talking about?" Chaeyoung sat on the bed and felt air missing, but this time it was not nice.

"She is pretty, you spend a lot of time together, I don't know. Mom told me she got nervous earlier, maybe—"

"No!" Chaeyoung frowned. "No, I don't like her. Never."

"Okay, relax, I'm just saying... mom felt you did."

Chaeyoung got mad. She got mad at Mina, at her mom, Momo and... no, never Dahyun.

Never Dahyun. She dismissed the topic and they studied for less than an hour. Chaeyoung hurried everything because she really needed her time to think before sleeping.

In her dark room, once again, she forgot to take in how she had really felt during today's lesson. She could only concentrate on how she had forgotten her study time, Mina was to blame.

To Mina
Why would you get nervous?

From Mina
go to sleep

To Mina
I can't, answer me

Nothing happened for several minutes. Chaeyoung was so frustrated. Then she got a call.

"Why would you?"

"Call? I know you prefer calls."

"No," Chaeyoung sighed. "Get nervous. With my mom, why?"

Silence. Chaeyoung started to relax. Maybe she was overreacting.

"I'm not good with adults." Mina seemed honest. Chaeyoung felt so confused again but she felt better. She didn't like Mina and Mina was not a bad person. Everything was fine. And indeed, she did like calls, that was a nice touch.

"How so?"

"You are not good with social cues, everyone has a thing, now go to sleep, I'll see you five."

"Oh, tomorrow?"

"Yes, tomorrow, bye, cute dimples." Mina ended the call. Oddly enough, Chaeyoung felt so much better. She forgot about having forgotten the study time, about Momo, about her mom, about Mina leaving earlier, she barely noticed Mina called her out just now and how she had added to her agenda without even asking and fell asleep with a big smile wondering about tomorrow's lesson. She was definitely not being herself, but this time, she didn't notice.

Her last thought that night? Mina's body pressured against her own, gasping for air. Not a trace of Dahyun's angel-like features.

Something had definitely shifted.

Chapter Text

A green grape flew high just to end up in the fresh-cut grass. Again.

Chaeyoung rolled her eyes.

One more try and she had to say something. "You have to think before throwing."

Momo took another grape and failed. She frowned and ignored Chaeyoung. They were sitting in the schoolyard, where there's grass near the school gymnasium. Suddenly a grape went high again but it didn't hit the grass.

"Not fair!" Momo protested crossing her arms. Dahyun had easily landed the grape in her mouth. It goes without saying, Chaeyoung stared at the whole process with heart eyes, especially the part where Dahyun chewed with a grin on her face.

"She thought before throwing it." 'of course she did' Chaeyoung smiled. Dahyun smiled back at her comment.

"I'll do it, open up," Tzuyu kneeled and took a grape, ready to throw it into Momo's mouth. It was not working with that method either. Dahyun started laughing silently, staring at them. Chaeyoung started smiling like a fool staring at Dahyun. A normal day at school.

Sun was out today and the four girls were enjoying their lunchtime outside. Chaeyoung was no longer mad and had forgotten all about whatever had bothered her yesterday, she won't miss any study sessions again. Dahyun was her priority and her agenda couldn't keep getting interrupted by Mina.

Mina. Chaeyoung's stomach felt her thoughts. Whenever it was about the senior, she could feel it everywhere, it needed to stop. So she got closer to Dahyun and intertwined their arms, they were sitting next to each other.

Dahyun supported her head on Chaeyoung's shoulder for s second as if acknowledging the younger's presence.

"It's easy, Momo, just don't close your eyes when you throw," Dahyun giggled. Chaeyoung relaxed a bit. She was overthinking too much these days. Even if she usually does, when she does it's supposed to come to a conclusion and done. But now... 'No, that can't be right' Chaeyoung thought. She was sure she just needed to think a bit more or maybe do some homework and everything will be back in place.

Besides, today was a great day. Only two more lessons left and she had already been planning an epic love confession. She felt she didn't need more lessons but she had already planned it like that, maybe just to make sure she could get the most out of them. For educational reasons. And maybe... 'No, no'

"So, milkshakes later?" Tzuyu covered the sun reaching her eyes with her hand and asked looking at Dahyun and Chaeyoung.

Chaeyoung was about to answer, but Dahyun went first, "Chaeyoung can't, she has students' council meeting."

It was maybe a weird thing to feel attracted to, but Chaeyoung felt her heart skip a bit hearing that. Yeah, Dahyun knew her agenda, big deal for Chaeyoung's head.

"So... us three?"

"Oh, I..." And Dahyun kept talking, but Chaeyoung was too immersed in her fantasies about her best friend to pay attention to anything that was being said. And lunchtime was over.

Today was a great day. Chaeyoung was meeting Mina once again after the few weeks of being ignored. The last class was... an experience. Chaeyoung made up her mind, that from now on, lessons must be laying down in a bed, there was no other way around it. Hopefully, today Mina was not going to leave before six. So she was going to ask if the girl needed to study anything or what beforehand.

Chaeyoung's last period today was not a class but her meeting. So she took her phone out and cleared that part of her agenda right before she got inside the meeting room.

It was half the size of a normal classroom, just a few chairs and a couple of round tables. As always, Chaeyoung was punctual, but almost everyone was already there. She liked students council members' punctuality.

"Have a seat, Chaeyoung," Student council treasurer, redhead Park Jihyo offered. Chaeyoung smiled and sat. She liked sitting next to her in the meetings because Jihyo, as much as herself, was quite meticulous in everything she did.

Next to Jihyo, there was Minatozaki Sana,  Chaeyoung loved Dahyun's silver hair, but if she had to choose, Sana's long pink hair would be a close second. Sana's role... Chaeyoung stopped asking after a few meetings, no one ever gave her an answer. Apparently, she was there just because.

"So, we should start now—"

"Two minutes left to start," Chaeyoung said making vice president Yoo Jeongyeon bite her lip. Chaeyoung was not sure, but she is almost certain that vice president Yoo Jeongyeon wants to climb up higher in position. For Chaeyoung that's dangerous because for a student council to work well, they have to work in harmony and concordance. Ambition was not needed. Now, even if she said it because it's true she is in charge of time and writing everything down, she was also stopping her from doing the president's job.

And just when one minute was left, student council president, Im Nayeon walked through the door in her unique fashion. Short skirt, perfectly ironed blouse, the most gracious tie knot, her long brown hair perfectly waving. She was the embodiment of perfection, punctuality, charisma, and responsibility, Chaeyoung was happy with her role there. Chaeyoung loved a work well done, just like Mina's lessons.

"Hi! hi, everyone, thanks for your punctuality," The president said as she sat leaving her bag above the table and taking out her notes, "this will be a quick meeting, Chaeyoung why don't you tell us about last meeting?"

Gladly, Chaeyoung unlocked her phone. Everything was there, of course. She cleared her throat and started reading last meeting's act. The meeting went on just for the right amount of time. Their main worry, for now, was prom. Thematic and fundraisers and stuff. Chaeyoung didn't really pay much attention to detail, she just made sure to write everything down. She liked her role and she liked Im Nayeon's presidential presence, she had an opinion on everything.

Chaeyoung lifted her gaze from the phone and observed the room a bit. Sometimes she had to force herself to acknowledge her surroundings, or more like, the people around her she usually and unintentionally took for granted.

Vice president Yoo Jeongyeon was nibbling on her thumb as she stared at the president's every move. Chaeyoung frowned for a second. Didn't Nayeon mind that her own vice president represented a threat to her position? Chaeyoung looked again at the president, talking confidently, her chin up, her now long hair arranged in a ponytail... yeah maybe she had everything under control.

"So if we work that out, then money will be enough," Treasurer Park Jihyo smiled wide. That seemed good news. Chaeyoung turned to the president once again, she seemed pleased and then she turned to Minatozaki Sana. Even if Chaeyoung usually ignored her presence because it had nothing to do with their meeting this time she glanced at her because she started clapping lightly at Jihyo's words.

Chaeyoung wrote on her phone swiftly what had just been said and as she glanced up again, she saw something she probably wasn't supposed to see. Treasurer Park Jihyo intertwined hands on the table and moved back resting on her lap just as no-role Minatozaki Sana stopped clapping and her right hand rested above Jihyo's hands. Chaeyoung blinked a few times in confusion but she didn't look away. Maybe she should have. Jihyo moved a hand again to rest on top of the table but left her other one to grab Sana's hand and guided it all the way to her knee and back up again under her school skirt.

Chaeyoung turned around a the speed of light. Her face probably tomato-red. She could feel it in her ears. She shouldn't have seen that. 'This is not the place nor time to...' Chaeyoung wanted to be mad. Yet... she glanced again. Treasurer Park Jihyo shifted her position in an awkward movement. Sana, instead, had her head resting against the palm of her left hand with a cheeky smile, completely relaxed and unaffected. Chaeyoung was... curious. And also a bit uncomfortable in her seat as well. She shifted her gaze only to meet Jihyo's right hand, white knuckles as she was grabbing the table. Chaeyoung swallowed hard, this couldn't be happening, was she the only one seeing this? Well, she was the only one at that side of the table. Didn't both girls have a tiny bit of respect for her? Or they actually thought no one could see them or— maybe they wanted to be seen? Chaeyoung was losing her mind.

And after she wasn't sure how long, she snapped out of it. "That's about it for today, wouldn't we say?"

She got up so fast and barely said goodbye as she headed for the west door. She wished she could go to the bathroom first just to... breathe. But she only had two minutes until five. She was not going to be late again. Yes, a minute counted.

For the first time, she wished Mina got there a bit late but she arrived just on time with her.

"Hey, cute dimples, I'm just on time, I made sure to—" Mina stopped mid-sentence. "What happened to you? You look pale yet flushed like when we are— oh... oh, what were you doing?"

Chaeyoung avoided Mina's gaze but didn't miss her smirk after her suggestive question. She was not sure why she got so embarrassed, she felt as if she was intruding or something. Or maybe... maybe her head went to other places. 'god'

"I was at the students' council meeting."

"Ah," Mina acknowledged and her smirk faded away quickly. "Okay."

Chaeyoung thought nothing of it, glad she was not being mocked longer. "So, my parents are home today and I don't know if you mind again, given last time it was awkward for you."

Mina ran her fingers through her hair. "You are always so direct, aren't you?"

Chaeyoung sensed a bit of annoyance coming from the comment but she was not sure she had said something mean this time. "I was just—"

"I know... I know," Mina sighed and then quickly recovered, "Okay, let's go to my house."

"R—really?"

"Yeah, what the hell? Come on." Mina started walking outside school terrain like they usually did so Chaeyoung felt better and followed. Kinda anxious to know a bit more about the senior. Mina took her phone as they were walking and after a few blocks she stopped.

"Uh—"

"Just give me a second," Mina said putting her phone back in her bag. They stood awkwardly in a corner. Chaeyoung tapped her fingers against her thigh. A part of her was feeling this was not a great idea but the other part trusted Mina way more than it should. Then a voice echoed in her head. 'Be careful around Mina' and all the other warnings disguised as gossip. But no, it couldn't be 'they won't get into my head!'

Just when she was ready to relax, a black shiny long car parked in front of them. Mina opened the door and Chaeyoung frowned. "Weren't you taught not to go in strangers' cars, 'cause I was."

"I called it, it's fine, get in." Mina signaled to her to get inside. Okay, maybe Chaeyoung was letting the comments affect her.

Both girls went inside the luxurious car, the smell Chaeyoung identified as new attacked her nose. She swallowed, sat straight, and tapped her fingers.

"Home, miss Myoui?"

"Yes, please, thank you Mr. Jung."

The ride began swiftly. Chaeyoung was at loss for words. Or that she felt for a second. "Why couldn't we walk?"

"Comfy this way."

Chaeyoung sighed. She had more questions, many more, but she had learned she was not supposed to ask everything that was on her mind. Specially obvious questions as to why was the smell of the car so new, it bothered her. The tapping definitely increased. Mina noticed.

"Cute dimples, it is just a car ride," she said and used her hand to try and what Chaeyoung recognized as an attempt to reassure her by placing it on her knee. But oh, how that did the opposite. Flashes of Minatozaki Sana's hands going up private places of treasurer's Park Jihyo came to mind. Chaeyoung was about to malfunction. Either getting really quiet or asking a million questions as she shouldn't.

The second one seemed to win. "Where do you live?" Mina's hand didn't leave her knee.

"Not that far from school, half an hour if I walk fast."

"What's this car?"

"Uh..." Mina hesitated and then leaned forward. "Mr. Jung, who is the manufac-"

"No, I know the manufacturer, I—" Chaeyoung blinked and breathed in. "Why are we in it?"

"Well, usually when you want to go to a place from—"

"No sassy answers, please." Chaeyoung was getting frustrated. And surprisingly Mina was answering everything. Somehow Mina was always—almost—patient with her.

"Mr. Jung is my chauffeur, my driver," Mina explained, "he is taking us home."

"What?!" Chaeyoung frowned and raised her voice. "You have a chauffeur and we have been walking to my house all this time?"

Maybe she was overreacting. Still, a driver? Chaeyoung was now really curious about Mina's family. Her mother had recognized her as a Myoui, why didn't she know about them?

"I liked our walks," Mina mumbled and Chaeyoung ignored her. Better questions were coming to mind.

"Who do you live with?" She started the word vomit. "What's your parents' work? Who will be at home now? Will we be alone? Why the car smells like that? When—"

"Chaeyoung," Mina squeezed her knee, "we are almost there, no one would bother us and... you can ask more later."

Chaeyoung turned to look at Mina's face. The senior seemed honest. Chaeyoung nodded trying to relax, knowing damn well she had just done something she was not supposed to do: attack people with questions. Yet, Mina didn't seem to be bothered by it.

After a few more minutes, smooth turns made by Mr. Jung, Mina's typing that she ignored and the smell of new finally starting to be okay with Chaeyoung's nose, she realized they were arriving. The car passed throw big gates that opened automatically and a big house came into view. Not just any big house,  but a really really big house.

Chaeyoung knew the Myoui's were wealthy people, she could see it in Mina's style, presence, diction, anything Mina, really. Yet, she was astonished by the luxury of the house and entrance. She could only imagine the interior. Mr. Jung followed the path until a gorgeous landscape roundabout and they arrived right outside the main entrance.

"I'll be around, Ms. Myoui," The chauffeur  stopped the car and Mina made an immediate movement to get out.

"I appreciate that, Mr. Jung. Thank you," She smiled and opened the door. Chaeyoung got out too. She stood a bit awestruck at the sight of the house. Mina scolded her. "Come on, cute dimples, time is ticking."

Yeah, time is always ticking. Chaeyoung knows that, yet, she was distracted by everything. She wanted to know more about Mina. Elegant, funny, understanding, patient Mina. "How come we were having lessons at my place?"

"Well, it is the same," Mina said and walked through the door. It was not the same, how could it? Mina's house was huge. Everything screamed taste and luxury. Just like Mina did most of the time. But Chaeyoung was not allowed time to explore anything and was guided to Mina's room right away. "Come on, close your mouth, this is why I don't bring people," Mina mumbled.

Still, Chaeyoung enjoyed being pushed around by Mina until they got to her room and she was quite excited about knowing that place because come on, it must be special for Mina, right? Maybe she could know more about her. But she was disappointed once they got inside.

Just like the rest of the house, Mina's room was impeccable, clean, and luxurious and nothing that gave away anything else besides the word wealthy was in sight. "Well, that was disappointing."

"Uh, sorry?"

"I thought your room would represent you or give away something about you, you know? Like my cactus."

"Your cac—" Mina stared at her and shook her head almost laughing. "Well... I have a thing here."

"Oh, perfect," Chaeyoung said and followed Mina. They reached a space in one of the two bookshelves that were on one side of the big room. There was a box.

Mina opened it and took something out of it. "Candy," she said to Chaeyoung. "I keep it here."

"Oh, you have a stash as well!" Chaeyoung smiled and took the package of Skittles happily. She loves those.

"Keep it but eat it later."

"Why?" Chaeyoung asked about to rip the bag open.

"Food is almost here."

"Food?"

"Lesson is starting," Mina said and took the Skittles away. Chaeyoung frowned a bit and tried her best to understand what was next. But she was a bit distracted. Usually, she is all for having the lesson right away, but now she wished they could wait a bit. But she obeyed.

"Pretty, tho," she commented as she sat in one armchair near a window that gave a perfect view of the roundabout Mr. Jung left them a few minutes ago. Mina's room was big but there was not much more than what a room needed. It was just her bed in the middle. Big turquoise bed, a big chandelier above it. Shelves with some books, desks with nothing in plain sight. White and turquoise walls. A lot of light probably got inside the room from outside but at this hour, the sun was falling down, and soon golden would look so beautiful inside.

Mina just half smiled at Chaeyoung's comment and walked to the door. A knock was heard.

"Ms. Myoui, your order," resonated through the room as soon as Mina had opened the door.

"Thanks a lot, we'll be fine." The door closed and Chaeyoung was astonished.

"What? you got servants?"

"Don't call them that," Mina smiled and brought the bags near the bed. Chaeyoung wondered if that was even allowed. In such a clean space how could they leave greasy bags on the bed, "they are helpers."

"You just asked for food and you got it? When?"

"Well, yeah. On our way here."

"That's amazing," Chaeyoung said walking closer. "What are we eating? Oh, wait. Most importantly, why are we eating? And the lesson?" Chaeyoung got back to earth. She remembered the reason for them spending time together. The lessons, not them being friends or close, no. Of course.

"This is the lesson, cute dimples," Mina said and took burgers and fries out of one bag. The other she left on the floor apparently carrying smoothies. Chaeyoung recognized the local place she and her friends visited frequently. She loved it there although most of the time she only got a small portion or none at all cause she was wary of her diet.

"How is this the lesson?"

Mina moved and sat on the bed placing Chaeyoung's portion next to her on the bed too. Chaeyoung felt it was so wrong to support greasy food on the covers even if it was on cardboard so she hurried to sit next to Mina and grabbed her burger and fries. "Remember our first lesson?"

Oh, how could Chaeyoung forget? First, Chaeyoung doesn't forget. Second, it was great. "Of course, rules were set."

"Well, I had been thinking about it, our lessons, and on that one, you were so nervous about everything that you brought so many mints."

Chaeyoung smiled. Yeah, she had been and she was now... maybe because Mina had said she had been thinking about their lessons. Does that mean she had been thinking about them kissing?

"I read a fresh breath is important." Facts.

"Well, it is, but," Mina said and crossed her legs on the bed to turn and look at Chaeyoung, "what if you're on a date and no mints and just— it doesn't really matter, you see? If you want to kiss that person."

"Huh," Chaeyoung considered it for a moment. It's true, she doesn't carry mints around as much as the last time she bought they lasted for a while, "then..."

"Decent people just have to have regular dental hygiene, you see? You know about that, don't you?"

"Well, cleaning the tongue is a must."

"Well there you go," Mina smiled and took a big bite of her burger. "Now, let's eat."

Chaeyoung inspected the burger, it didn't seem to have onions so that was reassuring. But she was liking the lesson because what Mina had said made sense. And, she always loved an excuse to eat this kind of food without feeling guilty.

"Wow," Chaeyoung hummed, "I love this."

"There's your milkshake too in the other bag if you want."

"I love those too!" Chaeyoung talked with her mouth full. She loved burgers and fries. Mina's bed was extremely comfy and somehow, she forgot all about their lesson. She was just eating with a... friend. "So, you really just ask for whatever you want?"

"It's not like that— well, it is." Mina seemed to have changed her speech. "I have it easy, I know, no need to remind me."

"Oh, no, wait, that seemed like she is upset— wait, no, I said that out loud— uh," Chaeyoung cleared her throat, "Sorry."

Mina giggled. "Okay, come again."

"Are you upset?"

"No. Not with you."

"But, what I said, uh," Chaeyoung didn't seem to find the words, "you live here, you said you have it easy but it doesn't seem like it and it's confusing for me your tone and your words, but I'm not sure so, do you wanna talk about it? I'm a great listener, not a great understanding person but a great listener nonetheless."

"I don't know if there's anything to talk about."

"Okay." Chaeyoung kept eating. There was silence. That had not been present until that moment. Her intrusive thoughts won. Chaeyoung felt like knowing more about Mina and out of all the things she could say, she chose the one she had sworn had not been bothering her. Lies. "Why do people keep telling me to stay away from you?"

Chaeyoung stared at Mina, but not her eyes. Her body movements and her side of the bed. Mina didn't seem to react to the question. Only kept chewing the bite she had just taken and reached for a napkin to clean her mouth. Left her burger in the cardboard, reached down for her milkshake, took a sip, and intertwined her hands on her lap. "What do people say?"

Chaeyoung sighed in relief. "Well, just that I shouldn't hang with you but then I never ask why because I hate gossip."

"Mh..."

"So—"

"Students council meeting you said?"

"What?"

"You were just there, right?"

"Right," Chaeyoung said but one thing she hated was people changing the topic. "But can we—"

"Did they say something to you?"

"What? No— we— we don't really, they don't really— Can we— I'm confused."

"Okay, sorry." Mina saw how Chaeyoung struggled. "So who?"

"Uh... well, my friends."

Mina scoffed a laugh. "Right, 'cause they sure know all about it."

"Well, mostly Momo I assume because—"

"She is a senior, right." Mina seemed used to it. Chaeyoung was feeling bad about having asked.

"Maybe I shouldn't have asked, we don't need to talk about it." Chaeyoung took a bite and reached for her smoothie as well, she meant it. She hated making anyone uncomfortable, especially Mina.

"No, it's fine, I'm glad you asked instead of assuming, that's new."

"Gossip is the worst," Chaeyoung frowned and kept thinking about that. She really disliked it. "You're not bad, I know that."

Mina half smiled and left the small part of her burger that remained, aside. "Yeah? You think so?"

"I know so, you're like, the only one that speaks to me and doesn't make me feel exhausted." And Dahyun, of course.

"Exhausted?"

"Yeah, like, when I talk to other people, they won't get fully what I'm saying and I have to explain myself again and sometimes they don't make sense, I hate it but you always seem to understand and when you say stuff to me, it's clear and precise, like our lessons."

"That's... you're really honest with me."

"I'm honest with everyone, but thank you." Chaeyoung took it as a compliment, it sure was one, right?

"Well, I know what they gossip around, I'm not stupid and they're not trying to hide and—"

"Oh." Chaeyoung suddenly remembered. That day. Mina drunk. She had forgotten all about how upset she had been but Mina's voice now reminded her. Something happened that day. "People talk."

"They sure do, cute dimples." Mina got out of bed and took Chaeyoung's trash away, she looked as if they had not been talking about anything just now or maybe as if she was trying to diminish the importance of it. "So, our lesson."

"Right," Chaeyoung said. "Almost forgot about that." Lies. Chaeyoung knew perfectly well only this and one lesson more remained. Yet... she was ignoring it a bit.

"Oh, really?" Mina rose an eyebrow and got in bed again, almost crawling near Chaeyoung, who suddenly could feel her heartbeat in her throat. "I feel you're lying."

"I can't lie."

"Yet, you're lying," Mina insisted, positioning her face awfully close to Chaeyoung's. "Can I kiss you now?"

Chaeyoung wanted to say yes but what about the food? "But—"

"The food is fine, you don't need mints," Mina crawled closer breathing next to Chaeyoung's lips. And, oh, wow. Chaeyoung's heart went even faster. She remembered the last lesson, yeah, that had been interesting. A similar feeling was taking place now. And suddenly Mina grabbed her school tie again as if she knew just what she had been thinking and pushed Chaeyoung slowly backward to lay on the bed. Mina didn't have to ask again, because Chaeyoung opened her mouth and received Mina's lips right when her back reached the mattress.

"Oh," Chaeyoung worded after having just kissed Mina's lips for a second.

"What?" Mina said almost grazing the younger's lips. Chaeyoung had her eyes opened. She could see Mina's glossy lips and perfect nose. She could see her pink cheeks and every mole on her face. She wondered how would it be to put makeup on her, would she draw something? "Chaeyoung, what?"

"Right." Chaeyoung got carried away. "You're right, no need for mints."

Mina sighed heavily and left her weight fall a bit on Chaeyoung. "You scared me, I thought something had bothered you."

"Why would something bother me?"

"WHY WOUL— Okay... then, is everything okay?"

Chaeyoung frowned at Mina's voice but then it changed to a soft tone again so it was okay. She guessed her question had been absurd given many things bothered her and Mina knew. Unpunctuality for example. But now, everything seemed more than fine. Not a single thing was bothering Chaeyoung. Not time, not them wasting it, not even the awful sound of Mina's clock at the other side of the room. Not at all Mina's body weight on her. Not Mina's eyes on her. "It is," she said and lifted her hands from the bed to maybe...

"My waist, it's fine," Mina whispered realizing Chaeyoung's predicament. It was  almost unreal how both knew now they were about to kiss. Chaeyoung wanted it. So much. For Mina to lean down and catch her lips and kiss her breathless, for Mina to pull from her tie, to open her blouse, to grasp her thighs, caress her hips and waist, kiss her neck, bite her earlobe. To make her feel small and wanted. That was on her mind. Just feeling Mina's breath against her face made her imagination travel like that.

So she held Mina's waist. And her wishes came true one by one. Mina leaned down to kiss her tenderly, playing with her lips the most. Chaeyoung was not sure what to do with her hands but she realized when Mina started going down her jaw to her neck and she had to hold tighter. She felt like breathing faster but last lesson... had she done something wrong? She stopped holding Mina.

"What is it?" Mina whispered against her neck. Chaeyoung had to swallow before answering.

"I don't want you to run away again." 

"Why— ah, cute dimples," Mina got closer to Chaeyoung's face again. This time Chaeyoung had her eyes closed. "You can express how much you like it," she said, "in any way you want or... happens," Mina breathed the last word against Chaeyoung's ear, making Chaeyoung release the air she had been holding since Mina started going there and her body rose and fell as well. 'god' Chaeyoung thought. She will, she will react however Mina made her feel like it.

She didn't need to ask. Mina resumed kissing her right then. Attacking her lips not as tenderly as earlier and then her neck again and she felt Mina's body even closer to her and sometimes further and closer and realized Mina was actually slowly grinding her body against her and— "Mina," Chaeyoung let out more shakily  and breathy than she had intended. "Ah..." She couldn't talk. She could only hold tighter and tighter. "Your lips..."

Heaven. Mina's lips were heaven against her neck. Mina's body was heaven against her own. Softly pressed, strongly pressed. Mina's hand going under her skirt again. Mina's hand grasping her leg, caressing her thigh, Mina...

"Chaeyoung," Mina whispered with agitated breath. Chaeyoung had to confess hearing the senior say her name like that made her spine tingle. "Your heart..." she moved her fingers to Chaeyoung's pulse point at her neck, "heartbeat is too fast and—" Mina cleared her throat. "I—"

"Yeah," Chaeyoung breathed calming herself. "Maybe—"

"Yeah."

They knew. It was better to stop.

But Mina remained there, supported on top of Chaeyoung who could feel Mina's slow change in her breathing against her neck. Time was not even important, was it? Chaeyoung had not thought about it.

Chaeyoung was thinking about how Mina was almost hugging her as they both rested on her bed. Her hands no longer had a waist to hold but a back to caress. And the most beautiful golden locks to pass her finger through as well.

They stayed there for a while. The ticking and the birds and then, the sun setting illuminated the room with a warm soft yellow-ish orange hue. Never seen before, Chaeyoung didn't remind to check the time or her agenda, nothing. Chaeyoung was not sure she had even had a lesson, she had completely forgotten about it. And suddenly she felt furious about anyone making Mina cry.

It was not possible, Chaeyoung wanted Mina to be good. How could she be wrong? How could anyone find the senior a bad person? She wanted to ask again but even with her bad habit of being direct, she was finding it hard to word it.

But just like before, Mina seemed to have read her mind. "They're just rumors..." Her voice matched the soft light and atmosphere of the room. Mina's head was on Chaeyoung's chest and Chaeyoung hoped her heartbeat was not bothersome. 'but how could my heartbeat be bothersome, they mean I'm alive, if she didn't feel it then it means I'm dead, how could that—' "They altered reality, they took something nice and made it awful."

"What did they take?"

"It was so precious to me, what I had— we were friends, you know? We were friends first. Long time friends. We both unknowingly dealt with coming to terms with our sexuality but then, only I accepted it for real. It was my fault, I shouldn't—"

"Wait, I'm so confused." Chaeyoung didn't want to interrupt or sound mean. She was genuinely confused, she hoped Mina got that. She tried to say it lowly.

"How come you don't know? Haven't you heard anything? Everyone seems to hate me."

"I told you I don't like gossip." And actually, Chaeyoung didn't pay much attention to things that felt were not important to her, which made pretty much everything, except her friends, tasks and family, invisible.

"You avoid it pretty well, then," Mina mumbled and apparently mindlessly moved her hand to reach Chaeyoung's one. Chaeyoung felt how Mina started playing with her fingers softly. She was not sure why it didn't bother her, the soft sensation was not awful and the tickling was okay. She liked it. "Im Nayeon and I, we were friends first, then lovers, or so I thought until she betrayed me."

'what? no way. No way' Chaeyoung thought. 'Students council president Im Nayeon was not homosexual' "But she is straight."

"Right, straight," Mina laughed bitterly. "Not everything is at it seems, cute dimples." Well, that was true. "We dated for a few months, and before that, we had a very unique friendship, I love... loved her, you know? But one time, her father saw us kissing and that was it. She was straight again and everyone thinks I'm disgusting."

"But, why would people think that? I'm out, no one thinks I'm disgusting. Do they? Oh, are people at school homophobic?!" Chaeyoung was not aware.

"No, no, calm down," Mina said and squeezed her hand, "they're not, they're against creeps, as they should."

"Hey, you suck at telling stories, I'm even more confused now."

"Don't insult me, I'm really vulnerable right now."

"Sorry."

"It's fine," Mina sighed and somehow cuddled closer. Chaeyoung felt warm. This whole interaction felt oddly natural. "She said I had force myself on her, that I stole that kiss, that she had no idea I was that terrible, that she never thought I could have those intentions with her... she said that to her father and to everyone at school, so no one would think she is, you know, and so her father wouldn't react badly, which he was about to. Now everyone thinks I'm this predator."

"But—"

"And it would have been fine, I would have accepted a lie, but she started rumors about me like how I touched her at sleepovers or I had stared more than needed and just— All lies, cute dimples, I would never and what I had with her, it was all consensual! We had feelings for each other, she—"

Mina stopped talking, too upset to continue. Chaeyoung didn't say anything because she couldn't understand how could students council president Im Nayeon be that same girl. In Chaeyoung's mind, students body president Im Nayeon was perfect. Someone to look up to. How could she be that awful? How could she be the reason for the senior's distress? "I don't— I don't understand."

Mina sighed. "Which part?"

"Students body president Im Nayeon can't be that same girl, are you certain?"

"If I'm certain that I know who the girl that basically was my first ever love and made me dream about my life finally making sense and then crushed it all away turning all my social status to trash is? Yeah, I'm certain." Okay, fair point.

"Why were you crying that day?" Chaeyoung frowned. Weren't the rumors enough? Had Nayeon bothered her that day?

"I shouldn't have gone to that party, I thought it would be fine, a great opportunity to look past this, but I got way too drunk when I saw her being... all sweet with this boy and— It was just not fair and my silly drunk self tried to go to her and, well, it's all blurry now." Mina sniffed and left Chaeyoung's hand to wipe a few tears. Chaeyoung could tell Mina didn't want to go into details, which is fine.

"It makes me happy that you went to my house that night." Why? Chaeyoung was not sure but she rather Mina crying in her arms than drunk and with no jacket in the cold. "But... why didn't you come here?"

"Because uncle was here that night... he is not very... warm."

"What about your parents?" The question came immediately, Chaeyoung didn't think it could be something bad to ask. Mina moved away from Chaeyoung's space to rest on her back.

She used a hand to press it near her school tie, Chaeyoung had seen her do that before. The last sun rays illuminated her face, Chaeyoung felt something in the pit of her stomach seeing Mina like that and especially with clear tears threatening to fall. "Just... gone," Mina said. And Chaeyoung felt maybe she had already opened up too much for one afternoon.

She was not sure why but she approached Mina this time and cuddled closer, even leaving a quick kiss on her cheek. Mina smiled weakly and received her. They stayed like that for a while until every trace of yellow light disappeared and a soft blue took place outside. Mina played with her hair and Chaeyoung relaxed by counting Mina's heartbeats.

The weird part was that Chaeyoung had not once remembered they were supposed to be in a lesson, not once had worried about time, not once she had checked her phone or reminded herself she had to study for tomorrow. Again, Chaeyoung had been careless and relaxed and of course, Mina was to blame.

That's exactly what happened when she realized it.

"Cute dimples..." Mina whispered probably fearing Chaeyoung had fallen asleep, which she was about to.

"Mhh..." she mumbled.

"It's getting late."

Late. That word finally clicked in Chaeyoung's mind. In a bad way.

"Late?" Chaeyoung rose her head and sat on the bed. "How late?"

"Well, it's..." Mina was about to reach for her phone but Chaeyoung got up quickly and took hers.

"It's more than six, it's way more than six," she announced as she saw the big 7:45 on her lockscreen. "I— I don't understand, how— no, that can't be right."

"Hey," Mina got up too, a bit lost with sleep still, "hey, Chaeyoung, it's fine."

"Fine? It can't be fine, I never, I never," Chaeyoung breathed in and out a bit faster. "That can't be right."

"Chaeyoung," Mina insisted. "It's okay to forget about time sometimes, I promise, nothing bad has happened, you can go home now and it will all be okay."

Chaeyoung stared into Mina's eyes, was that possible? Was everything okay? The truth is she had felt okay. She had felt more than okay wasting time in Mina's arms. But...

"I'm sorry, I need to go."

"I know, I know, I'm sorry I didn't want to bother you, you seemed comfortable so I forgot about the time too..."

"Yeah, we made a mistake, I know, I just— I need—"

"To get home, I know, don't worry I'll ask Mr. Jung to drive you, would that be okay?"

"I guess so." Chaeyoung didn't want to sound ungrateful, it was just that she was reminded of the awful smell of new.

It happened all too fast, Mina called for Mr. Jung, they said goodbye and in no time Chaeyoung was outside her house. Almost all dark already.

She got inside and ignored her mother's greeting and obvious questions. She barely replied to Dahyun's hi who was snacking on the couch and she ran downstairs. She needed to order her thoughts, she needed to understand how could she have forgotten about time. She needed to hit something. She threw her things on the sofa and untied her tie in a swift motion. She was about to start hitting the sack right then with no bandages and no gloves, but suddenly her impulse was over.

Chaeyoung hugged the punching bag supporting her head against it. She felt mad. At herself. And maybe at Mina. Right, Mina was to blame. Mina was the reason she had gotten distracted, Mina was the reason she had forgotten to study the other time. Mina was... the reason she had for the first time enjoyed wasting time.

Time was precious for Chaeyoung. She loved using her time in the right ways. She loved using her time with Dahyun. But it had never been... as enjoyable as she had felt just now and why would Chaeyoung enjoy not being in control, why would this girl who came out of nowhere insist on changing her plans and right then, Chaeyoung moved quickly to get her hands wrapped in bandages as fast as she could, put on her gloves and started hitting the punching bag as she had first intended.

All her thoughts disappeared, she didn't need more distractions, she needed her head clear, she needed to keep punching and punching and get rid of these silly feelings.

What Chaeyoung didn't want to accept was that as desperate as she had felt over having lost track of time, she had enjoyed way more being in Mina's arms. She had enjoyed way more Mina calming her and maybe her words had been right. Maybe it was indeed okay to forget about time sometimes. 

Chapter Text

Blank. White. Empty... cold. 'tiny spider'

Those were the adjectives that came to mind as Chaeyoung stared at her ceiling. It's been a few days since that day at Mina's house and frankly, Chaeyoung wouldn't stop thinking about it.

Not exactly it... but her. Mina represented confidence for Chaeyoung. Therefore, having seen Mina being so honest and vulnerable with her that afternoon, was making her think twice about how she had classified Mina in her head. Maybe Mina was more than 'the girl teaching me how to kiss'

And she had learned, of course. Now there was only one class left and Chaeyoung hated that she should be feeling glad but instead... she felt already missing them. So, these past days she had unconsciously been avoiding Mina.

Not in a bad way, she hoped. Just delaying last lesson. Chaeyoung was not good with excuses, though. And it was time to accept, she sucked at texting. It was hard to understand voice tones with emotions, imagine just reading plain words and a few emojis. Not helping.

From Mina
Got home safe?

To Mina
Hated the smell

From Mina
What smell?

To Mina
New

From Mina
I know you hate texting but care to elaborate?

To Mina
no

Needless to say, Mina didn't insist. And Chaeyoung was okay with that. She needed time to get her head straight. Or at least, think about more important things than just Mina's lips. And hips. 'and waist... and hands, her smile, her warm breath....'

"Chaeng," Tzuyu called. "You're doing it again."

"What?" Chaeyoung answered distracted.

"Pulling from your lip," Tzuyu frowned. "People might think you're trying to seduce me."

Chaeyoung tilted her head. Both confused about her action and people thinking that. "That's silly," she said. "I'll stop."

"Yeah, you already said that... anyway, what's got you like that?" Tzuyu picked up a fry. They were waiting for their friends at the usual place with milkshakes and burgers. Chaeyoung had convinced Tzuyu to just get milkshakes and a portion of fries to share. "Important test? 'Cause I don't recall, should I be studying?"

"No, we are clear," Chaeyoung said checking her phone just in case.

"Ah, perfect, then," Tzuyu smiled, and just then everyone else arrived. By everyone, yes, it meant Dahyun and Momo but also Angelo. Chaeyoung was okay with it, friends are allowed to hang out, right? At least it was not another silly movie date. It wasn't surprising for Chaeyoung because Dahyun made sure to let her know. Of course she would tell her, Dahyun knows she and unexpected don't go. 'although Mina is always changing my plans and is not as bad as—'

"Chaeng?"

"Oh, don't bother," Tzuyu said. "She is been spacing out since I got here."

"I have not," Chaeyoung answered feeling insulted. "Hi."

She managed to greet everyone and not distract herself with other thoughts for a while. Momo got more food for everyone and they were all having a good time. Chaeyoung was too, she got to sit next to Dahyun and Angelo was at the other side of the table. That's a win in her head.

But the topic changed and it made her thoughts wander again.

"This year's prom theme for sure will be good, right Chaeng?"

"Don't try to make her give us information, she won't fall that easily," Dahyun answered at Momo's attempt.

Chaeyoung knew the theme they were going for yet she knew she was not supposed to tell. Of course she wouldn't fell for it. "Good indeed," Chaeyoung said. But her mind was half thinking about the theme itself. The other part was reminded of last meeting. Flashbacks of Minatozaki Sana's hand playfully grasping treasurer Park Jihyo's thigh and then Mina's hand on her leg, keeping her sane. 'really, really, good'

"Chaengie, come on, I thought Tzuyu had been lying when she said you had been spacing out," Dahyun waved her hand in front of her eyesight, bringing her back to the real world.

"Theme will suck," Momo said. "Who picked it? Nayeon is way too boring."

"Don't talk about her like that," Dahyun smiled turning to Chaeyoung. "You know she is a big fan."

Tzuyu giggled along with Dahyun, Momo only blew some raspberries and Angelo smiled not really understanding. Chaeyoung, though, who knew the girls made fun of her for admiring president Im Nayeon, frowned immediately. She had completely forgotten about it.

She got up really fast, almost making Dahyun spill her drink. Everyone looked up at her. "That effin'— arsehole, son of a— gun!"

"Wow, someone's got her real mad," Momo laughed at Chaeyoung's attempt at cursing. Yeah, she had tried her best.

Everyone got back to eating as if Chaeyoung had not remembered the most important thing ever. Well, everyone except Dahyun, who of course cared about everything Chaeyoung related.

"What is it, Chaengie?" She asked patting Chaeyoung's back twice inviting her to sit down again.

Chaeyoung couldn't answer, she awkwardly passed over Dahyun and got out of the shiny red booth. Without a word, she turned and headed to the exit. But then remembered something important, you don't just leave places like that, not if you're with friends. So she took a few steps back.

"Excuse me, I have to go," she explained briefly as a goodbye. Waved her hand, more like a high-five signal, and made her way out completely this time.

If someone found the sudden reaction odd, she didn't realize. But it was not uncommon for Chaeyoung to react in odd ways or times.

Once outside she walked strongly and fast for ten solid seconds until her steps started to lose decision. Okay, she had reacted, now what? It was a Sunday afternoon. She looked at the sun starting to set. There was nothing she could do, actually.

Confused about her emotions, she returned slowly to the diner. Her friends and vacuum cleaner Angelo were still there at the back booth. She sat in the space that had been Dahyun's who was now next to the window in Chaeyoung's previous spot.

"How do you make someone's life a living hell?"

"Oh man, I'm so curious," Momo smiled wide and leaned closer on her seat. "What the hell is going on inside that little head of yours?"

Momo was never the one to care about Chaeyoung's doubts or odd comments, she would always pick the turning it into a joke way. Chaeyoung had learned Momo's way of guiding her was bully. It worked most of the time even if the method was prompt to end in discussions where Chaeyoung was not going to give in.

"I can't say," Chaeyoung frowned realizing she was already saying too much. "So, I'm listening." She took out her phone and opened her notes app.

No one started talking but Chaeyoung remained expectant, she mostly expected Dahyun to say something because she was usually more interested in her doubts.

Yet, after a few—unknowingly for Chaeyoung—awkward seconds, Angelo cleared his throat. "Well, I don't know about living hell, but... if you want to get back at someone then you should find their weakness."

"That sounds alright," Chaeyoung mumbled and wrote. "Define weakness," she stated without looking forward.

Angelo must have been impressed with the positive reaction, he smiled and started using his hands to elaborate. "See, everyone has a weakness, a thing that makes them crack or scared.  For example, uh... let's see, well— I have a fear of spiders—" Chaeyoung snorted loudly. 'spiders are harmless'. But Angelo continued, "so, if someone wants to make me upset or get back at me they might use that."

"Mh," Chaeyoung considered this. It sounded theoretically easy. "Then, how do I get to know someone's weakness?" She was interested enough to look up at the guy. Dahyun was staring at the whole interaction impressed.

"You have to get close to them."

"How close are we talking about?" Chaeyoung considered sitting across the table at every meeting a reasonable close.

"The other close, Chaengie," Dahyun interrupted their conversation.

"Oh." Immediately Chaeyoung put back her phone inside her pocket. "I can't do that." Chaeyoung knew she sucked at that. Goodbye revenge.

"Don't say that you can do anything," Dahyun corrected.

"Are you actually encouraging her to make someone's life a living hell?" Tzuyu frowned nibbling on her straw.

"Yes, please, I wanna watch," Momo joined again.

"No, of course not," Dahyun said. "I only meant that if Chaeyoung wants to get close to someone of course she can, right? And Chaeng," she turned to her, "Angelo gave good advice but remember that getting back at someone is not always the best thing to do, okay? If someone made something bad, then the universe will take care of it."

"Yeah, karma and that shit," Momo nodded at Dahyun's words. "But I could also gladly help."

'Yeah, right' Chaeyoung thought recalling Momo's constant warnings against befriending Mina. "Thanks," she said either way. "And thanks... Angelo." The name felt weird in her mouth. "I don't think I can do that exact method but I'll think of something."

And just like that the topic died down. Chaeyoung got lost in her thoughts and everyone else kept talking as usual. She heard something about a dog and something about buying clothes, but yeah, she never paid much attention.

It was 8 pm when she and Dahyun got back home. It was almost a bit late considering they had classes tomorrow.

"Hey, Chaeng," Dahyun said after they had greeted Chaeyoung's parents. "What's all this revenge thing?"

Chaeyoung stared at Dahyun and found she looked worried. "Don't worry about it, I won't be able to go through with it." Chaeyoung tried to reassure her.

"Okay, just remember what I said okay, the universe will take care of it, karma and that shit," she quoted Momo. Chaeyoung laughed. Dahyun saying bad words was always funny to her. It was unlike her personality. Suddenly she got lost staring at her. Dahyun's lips looked so enticing and soft. Chaeyoung's breath got caught in her throat. She wanted to kiss her so badly. "Well," Dahyun suddenly said, "I'll go take a shower, you get ready for tomorrow too, okay? Come on."

She started going upstairs and Chaeyoung was left there lovestruck. A regular for her. She did not follow upstairs because she wanted to have some time out. She headed downstairs instead and sat carefully on the grey sofa bed. She sighed. It had been a long day.

Everything was always better down there, she stared at her punching back hanging a few feet away. 'Yeah, tomorrow' she had set training days, Sunday was not really one. She put both hands on the sofa about to get up but then... some thoughts came to mind. She was in the same spot where she had learned biting someone's lips was one of the best things in life. No kidding.

She took out her phone and went through Mina's chat. All the messages from last time were there, an inconclusive conversation. "Mhh." She tilted her head and wrote a message. By the time she realized what she was doing, she had already pressed sent.

To Mina
I miss you

She did not regret it, because she meant it. But maybe it was not adequate. She scratched her head. What did she miss exactly?

Right then she got an incoming call from Mina. She answered immediately. But she did not say anything. There was silence for a few seconds.

"Say it." Ah, she had missed her voice.

"Say what?"

"What you texted."

"I miss you," Chaeyoung frowned. What was the purpose of saying it?

"Say it again."

"Wh— I miss you," Chaeyoung got up and started walking around. She was not getting this interaction, was the line failing? She got to her punching bag and leaned on it with a side hug.

"So, last lesson."

"Uh, yeah... uhm—"

"What?" Mina seemed to laugh at the other side. "You don't want it?"

"I do, I do," Chaeyoung slid down a bit on the sack.

"Then, tomorrow?"

"I— I can't tomorrow."

"Oh, you can't tomorrow? Tell me your agenda," Mina demanded. Chaeyoung didn't answer. "Come on, recite it. I know you know it."

She did. "I— I do have the afternoon free," she couldn't lie.

"Then why can't you?" Mina sounded less Mina with that question.

"I don't know."

"Well, figure it out, please."

Chaeyoung slid further down, almost at the floor. "Okay." A bit of silence followed.

Then Mina talked, "I miss you too, cute dimples."

Chaeyoung reached the floor and the call ended. She laid there longer than she would admit until she gathered the strength to go get in bed after preparing for tomorrow. Before sleeping, she checked her notes and added: Figure it out.  With a star at the very top. That was going to be tricky.

***

The following morning Chaeyoung woke up just when her alarm went off. She was not ready for the day ahead, she felt emotionally confused and it was exhausting. 'Time to end this' she thought once she saw her notes and the very first one reminded her of everything. She needed to start following her agenda, no more distractions. No more funny thoughts.

Oh, but it was becoming impossible to not have funny thoughts. Especially when Dahyun fixed her tie once they said good morning to each other downstairs.

"You have to do that knot again," Dahyun said. "I swear I don't know how you take that out every day, mine does not get messy so fast." She pulled from the collar of her blouse without previous notice, lifted, unmade the knot, and started making a new one. It was all no more than ten seconds. Dahyun then finished by tightening the knot upward with one strong movement. Chaeyoung, all wobbly, had to take a step forward to steady herself and inhaled sharply. Dahyun smiled at her work, without realizing Chaeyoung's odd behavior. "There," she said stepping backward. "Picture perfect."

"T—Thanks..."

Breakfast was quick, Chaeyoung was in silence, she needed to figure things out. Dahyun did not seem to find anything out of the ordinary and then they were out for school. It was a cloudy day, but warm enough. 'good day for coffee' Chaeyoung pondered. Just a passing thought. Somehow she kept concentrating on the wrong things. She got goosebumps when flashes of Mina's soft lips and the taste of coffee came to mind. 'no, no, no, figure it out, just— her weakness, president Im Nayeon's weakness' That's what Chaeyoung settled she was supposed to be thinking today. Of course. If she cared about Mina, then this was necessary. So, it was decided.

She could not have a lesson today because they needed to discuss that, plus, she could not keep having funny thoughts because her mind needed to think about revenge, of course.

She wished she had council meeting today, but they did not. There she could try and get close to Nayeon. Chaeyoung realized that she cannot be that terrible at it if she had befriended Mina, right? Although, it was Mina who had made it easy for her. Still, she knew Im Nayeon. Or at least, a bit.

"I can totally do that."

"Sorry?" Chaeyoung's Math teacher looked directly at her. 'oh' She was in class already, you are not supposed to say things aloud without permission there, Chaeyoung knew that. She had not been paying attention, but when you are Son Chaeyoung, you can catch up on everything Math related. "It would be best if you show us, Ms. Son."

The teacher pointed at an exercise written on the whiteboard. "Right," Chaeyoung said and got up. She could actually totally do that. Having saved that, she forgot about her mistake. Plus, she nailed the procedure, got to explain it and the day was over. Time to meet Mina, finally. She had important things to announce.

Chaeyoung ran to the west door. On her way there, though, she remembered she had not confirmed with Mina about getting together or anything. She had only assumed they were meeting. She stopped running by the rusty coffee machine regaining her breath. Someone was actually using it and it had worked. The mild smell got to her nose and apparently, now she not only wanted to announce things to Mina but she needed to. She walked to where they usually met as she reached for her phone to text the girl, but there was no need. Mina was there.

"You are here."

"Hello to you too," Mina corrected her as always. "You seem surprised, cute dimples, did you figure it out?"

"Right, yes," Chaeyoung frowned and got closer. "I can't have a lesson today because I need to start a revenge schedule."

Mina stared at Chaeyoung, probably trying to figure out what was being said. But it was so random, she had no idea. "What?" She chuckled amazed.

"In order to get revenge, I need to find someone's weakness and to do that, I need to get close to them, I suck at that but I figured, hey, if I got close to you then this might work, and even so, I'm not that distanced, you know? I can get to know president Im Nayeon's weakness to get at her for what she di—"

"Shh," Mina got close holding Chaeyoung's shoulders to stop her from talking once she had realized what she was saying. "Do not talk about that here."

Chaeyoung frowned slightly and realized Mina was being serious. Still, "It is important we do something, she can't just get away with it, we need to make it right."

Mina this time did not stop her, just let go of her shoulders and smiled, the smile Chaeyoung always got. "You've never been cuter."

"What?" Now it was Chaeyoung's time to be confused.

"You are so cute, I swear," Mina seemed frustrated but she was smiling? Chaeyoung was not identifying the reaction. "Revenge? God, you—" Mina looked away for a second still smiling and then sighed. "Cute dimples, that's really nice of you but there's no need."

"Of course there is."

"No, no, really, you don't have to do anything."

"But it's not right."

"I know, you're right, it's not but... the universe will handle that, not us. Don't worry, don't stress about it."

"Oh, you're with the universe too," Chaeyoung nodded knowingly. Apparently, everyone trusted those stars.

"Uh— Yeah, I guess," Mina answered. "The thing is, please don't do anything, it's fine, I just... have to endure it but..."

Mina did not keep talking, Chaeyoung insisted. "But what?"

"I still care for her, you know?" That Mina said in a whisper. "I know what was done is wrong but I don't want to make it worse, besides," she raised her voice and smiled, "if weakness is what you want to know, I already know hers."

"What? Really? Tell me." Chaeyoung did not seem to understand anything that was just said.

Mina chuckled again. "You won't do anything, okay? No need for you to know any weaknesses. Of anyone. Promise?"

Chaeyoung felt frustrated and confused. Why could she not get revenge? Someone needed to do right by Mina if the whole senior year was against her. This promise did not feel right, but she could tell Mina meant it. "Promise..." Chaeyoung mumbled grudgingly.

"Okay, perfect, no revenge, everything's fine." Mina tried to reassure Chaeyoung but how could everything be fine if Mina was being treated like that. "Now, let's go."

"Where?" Chaeyoung did not feel like having the last lesson. Not yet.

"Last lesson." Chaeyoung did not reply which seemed odd to Mina. "Mhh... so you have not figured it out, then?"

"I mean... I thought we could plan that revenge thing," Chaeyoung mumbled, probably not believing that excuse fully.

"Right," Mina nodded. "Okay, then let's just spend the afternoon together. Sounds okay? I can leave if you rather not. I just don't have anything else to do."

"Me neither," Chaeyoung thought aloud. "Okay."

"Okay."

They walked together. Chaeyoung started making the walk to her house. Mina just followed but then interrupted her. "Uhm, where are you going?"

"My house, we usually go there, I didn't—"

"It's fine, just, well, what do you usually do with your friends?"

"Well we usually hang out at the diner, we get smoothies and fries," Chaeyoung smiled. She really liked spending time there with her friends.

"That's fun. How about we get some ice cream and then go to your house?" Mina proposed. "There's a place a few blocks from here."

"Ice cream," Chaeyoung repeated. She loved ice cream. That plan sounded wonderful. "Yes."

Mina laughed a bit and nodded as they kept walking, this time Mina leading the way. Chaeyoung really liked vanilla or simple flavors. So, she actually had double vanilla as her choice and Mina asked for something the younger had never heard before and some strawberry. Seemed nice, and she liked that the colors went well together.

"Do you get double vanilla all the time?" Mina asked once outside the shop.

"Yeah," Chaeyoung said like it was the most natural choice. "It will never disappoint me."

"Right, okay, next time I'll force you to choose a different flavor."

"What? No."

"What? Yes, come on. You never know when you'll be surprised."

"Hate surprises," Chaeyoung frowned. Her ice cream was delicious and she would much rather always know what she was choosing than explore it. Vanilla was always good.

"People only hate surprises when they haven't been correctly surprised."

Chaeyoung smiled. That was a weird phrase. She glanced at Mina as they walked. Mina seemed serious about her wisdom, and Chaeyoung somehow trusted her. She didn't answer, just hummed and kept walking. They reached her house shortly after, both about to finish her ice cream cones.

"No one's home, I think, so don't need to panic," Chaeyoung said as she pushed the door open. She meant it, she did not like Mina being afraid.

"That was— One time. I won't— Well... Thanks." Mina relaxed significantly after that, Chaeyoung could tell. "You're sweet, cute dimples, really."

Chaeyoung felt her face oddly hot. She must be getting sick. They made way for the living room, Chaeyoung thought since this was not a class, they were not going to her room or downstairs so the living room was just fine. She kept repeating in her head how this was not a lesson and that was fine, she was trying to see that worrying about time was not always important. These plans had not been previously set and it was going fine, right? She felt slightly anxious but it was manageable. Mina's presence was soothing.

"I guess we should look for something to watch." Chaeyoung turned on the tv and handed the remote to Mina who just hummed and started going through different channels. Their lessons were never awkward. This, however, was becoming so awkward. Chaeyoung felt nervous and she never really felt like that much. Was she the only one feeling like that? Maybe she could ask.

But Mina beat her to talk. "So, how's your training?"

"Oh." Chaeyoung enjoyed talking about that, plus she kind of loved how Mina was so interested in her progress. "It is going great, I created a new schedule, actually. I think it's working."

Mina left the remote aside, the tv on some random channel and she turned to Chaeyoung. "Is it?" She wondered with a curious tone and a tiny smirk on her face as she used a hand to hold Chaeyoung's bicep.

"I— I think so." Chaeyoung gulped, feeling Mina's hand examining her arm. She almost felt like pulling away but that would have been rude, right?

"I think it is," Mina smiled and left her arm. But that was not all. "You really are so strong, yet, your skin is so soft..." Mina's soft voice relaxed Chaeyoung as this one used a thumb to caress Chaeyoung's cheek and then a hand Chaeyoung had been resting on her lap.

Chaeyoung's breath got caught in her throat but at the same time, she felt impressed because she had that same thought regarding Mina. "I think you're so soft, too." She used her free hand to trace Mina's face. It took her a second to actually get to touch her but she did. Mina smiled at the contact. "Really, really soft..." Chaeyoung mumbled as her fingertips went from Mina's forehead to her chin.

They had no idea how but both felt leaning closer. Just as Mina left Chaeyoung's hand and instead held her wrist firmly and decided not only Mina's face was soft, but also her lips so she traced those too. "And your lips are just so..." But she couldn't finish, Mina held on tighter to her and Chaeyoung moved her hand out of the way, to Mina's nape. In just a second they were all over each other in their most desperate and unplanned kiss.

Mina immediately let out a soft sigh against Chaeyoung's mouth as she got even closer. Chaeyoung held her waist pulling closer too. Again, she had no idea she had been wanting a kiss all day. And this kiss somehow felt so good.

She had no idea how but after a few seconds, Mina was no longer next to her, but straddling her thighs. Chaeyoung felt small yet strong and she loved it. Mina caressed her hair in all directions as their tongues met eagerly and Chaeyoung's hold became strong groping on Mina's waist and hips and soon enough, her thighs under her school skirt.

Strawberry had never tasted so good. Mina's lips were slightly cold at first and it felt just right. Maybe she would ask for that flavor next time. This was not a lesson, she knew, but they could talk too, right? She wanted to. The only way to manage to do that, though, was by lifting her head up, almost escaping from Mina's lips. "Strawberry, your— lips t—taste like strawberry."

Mina found no better alternative at Chaeyoung lifting her head to talk than leaving kisses against her jaw and neck. That made Chaeyoung stutter.

"Mmhh," Mina chuckled against Chaeyoung's neck and then looked for her lips. "Well, vanilla has never been this interesting," Mina whispered against Chaeyoung's lips and leaned to kiss her but instead bit and pulled from her lower lip. Chaeyoung moaned immediately and pressed Mina tighter against her body. Their kiss became a round of soft pecks, bites, and agitated breathing.

'this is not a lesson, this is not a lesson' Chaeyoung kept repeating in her head. It was confusing. What did it mean that they were not on a lesson? Maybe they were. What if Mina decided to count this as a lesson? That was not fair, was it? Chaeyoung started to feel nervous and confused again just as Mina started to slow down their kiss. "Cute dimples," She said against her lips, still breathing funny.

"Mhh," Chaeyoung answered leaning forward and caressing Mina's lips with her own. She had no idea why she liked that so much.

Mina opened her mouth slightly at the contact but kept going, "I— I need to tell you something."

Mina had her forehead pressed against Chaeyoung's. A hand got in between their lips, stopping Chaeyoung from keeping the kiss going. Mina traced Chaeyoung's lips. Quite red and plumped. "What?" She answered against Mina's fingers.

Mina let out a big breath and swallowed hard. "The thing is that... I think..." Mina stared into Chaeyoung's eyes this time. Chaeyoung looked too. Surprisingly, she did not mind the interaction. Mina's eyes were the most beautiful brown she had ever seen. She wanted to know what Mina was trying to say, but she couldn't deny she also wanted to keep kissing her right then. So she did that. Mina couldn't stop her. "Mhh— Chaeyoung— Wait." Mina voiced as she could to no avail because Chaeyoung was far gone into the wish of kissing her and Mina didn't feel like stopping her again. So they kept kissing. Maybe they could talk later. There was something about it that made Chaeyoung's willingness a mess, she had heard Mina but she didn't want to stop. Maybe it had to do with the fact that she usually did whatever she felt like it and somehow she knew Mina was okay with it, right?

The only sound that made Chaeyoung stop was a simple click on the door. She pushed Mina's hips gently. "Someone's here."

Mina got up in a swift second fixing her skirt way too disheveled for having been watching tv. "Sorry," she said leaning down to fix Chaeyoung's hair and giving her a tiny smile. Chaeyoung still could feel her heart beating so fast. Mina seemed fine, just her cheeks were a bit pink.

She wondered how her own face looked. "Am I all—" But she didn't finish because whoever had arrived closed the door and it only took a few steps to have them in view. Mina had already sat as if nothing had happened.

"Oh, Chaeng, you're here," her mother struggled to walk with some grocery bags. Given Chaeyoung did not make the slightest movement in an attempt to help, Mina got up and picked some bags. "Ah, you're with Mina."

"Hi, Mrs. Son," Mina answered. Only then Chaeyoung seemed to react and got up too.

But Mina and her mother had already carried the bags to the kitchen. So she just entered empty-handed. "Hi, Mom, we got ice cream and came here after class."

"Did you get vanilla again?"

"Yes."

Her mother sighed and shook her head with a smile. "Thank you, darling," she said to Mina for having helped. "You guys can go back to your program." Chaeyoung had no idea what was on the tv.

"No problem, Mrs. Son."

Mina seemed less nervous today. Chaeyoung got a glass of water before leaving the kitchen, failing to offer Mina some.

"Where's Dahyun?" Chaeyoung's mother asked as if remembering.

"Oh." Chaeyoung frowned. She did not know. How could she not know? "I'm not sure," she said.

"Well, she'll be here soon for sure."

Mina and Chaeyoung left the kitchen but Chaeyoung was still frowning. How could she not know? It felt weird, she always knew.

"You're worried," Mina said. Not asking but stating.

"I forgot to ask her."

"Well... it's fine, just text her."

"I guess so." Chaeyoung scratched her head and got her phone to send a text but she felt dumb.

"So... about what I wanted to say..."

"Yeah?" Chaeyoung did not lift her head from her phone looking at the chat between her and Dahyun.

"Uh... well, it's nothing, forget it." Mina cleared her throat and got up. "I guess I should go now."

"Uh, yeah, yes, for sure." Chaeyoung was not really paying attention.

"So, bye." Mina was looking down at the girl. Chaeyoung was unaware.

"Bye," she said. And got up to leave upstairs even before Mina could leave through the door.

"I'm sorry," Chaeyoung's mother appeared from the kitchen door to the hall where Mina stood in disbelief. "I'm sure you've realized Chaeyoung can be a bit blunt or oblivious."

"Well, yes, I just... well, yes," Mina smiled not elaborating any further.

"You seem like a lovely girl, thanks for sharing with my daughter, she is not that big on friends. So it means a lot."

"For sure," Mina replied. "She is quite lovely herself... when she wants," she added the last part with a weak smile.

"Do you need a ride or—"

"Oh, no, no, don't worry Mrs. Son, I can go on my own, thank you."

"Well, then, I hope to you see soon, you're always welcome, maybe you can stay for dinner sometime."

"Yes, thank you," Mina bowed a bit before giving one last smile and turning to the door.

Just when she opened, Dahyun was arriving.

"Mina, hi," Dahyun gave a big smile. "Were you guys training?"

"Uh, not really, just hanging."

"You should totally come with us one weekend, we get smoothies at the diner."

"Ah, yes Chaeyoung told me."

"She probably won't have the kindness to invite you," Dahyun laughed as if apologizing for Chaeyoung's behavior. "Here," she handed her phone. "Give me your number and I'll invite you."

"Oh... I—"

"Come on," Dahyun insisted. "I'm sure she'll love it." So Mina accepted and wrote her number. Dahyun was persuasive. "That's it, see? Well, see you around." She said last before actually getting inside the house and Mina finally left.

As soon as Dahyun entered, Chaeyoung came running down the stairs.

"Dub! You're here, where were you?" Chaeyoung hugged the newcomer and let out a big breath. "I forgot to ask."

"Debate team changed schedules, I forgot to tell you, why so startled?" Dahyun ruffled her hair and got past her to the kitchen where she greeted Chaeyoung's mother.

"You know Chaeng and her schedules," Mrs. Son replied instead. "You guys should set the table in the meantime."

And so they did. Chaeyoung asked a lot of questions while at it, though. Mostly about the new schedule and today's argument. Dahyun answered patiently.

It was not until an hour and a half later when Chaeyoung's father had got home and they were all having dinner that she thought about Mina again. Only because she was remembered.

They had been talking about their days but she had not spoken much, she was enjoying the food instead. She was almost spacing out while eating. "Chaeyoung," her mother turned the topic to her. "Chaeng," she had to say again to get the attention.

"Oh," Chaeng lifted her head and gave a quick glance but kept eyeing her plate. "Sorry, tell me." Now she was listening. Everyone there knew eye contact was not needed for her to be paying attention.

"I reckon you had a good day in class?"

"Yes, of course," Chaeyoung remembered the incident during Math, "I even got to teach a bit."

"You just explained an exercise, silly," Dahyun checked the facts.

"That's good," Mr. Son said. "As long as you were comfortable doing so."

"Of course, couldn't be easier."

Dahyun scoffed faking surprise. "You're so cocky when it comes to school subjects, come on."

"Well, I'm the best student, what do you exp—"

"Okay, okay, no need for that," her mother said. "Actually, Chaeyoung, I wanted to ask you for a favor."

"What is it?" She looked up because it seemed important.

"Just that I think you should start letting us know when you bring a friend home."

"Oh," Chaeyoung looked down. It didn't seem serious now. She could do that. "Okay."

But Dahyun found it weird. "Why? Should I too? Even Momo and Tzuyu?"

Mrs. Son cleared her throat and explained better. Chaeyoung was losing interest by the second. "No, no, it's okay, I just want to know when Chaeyoung will be around here with Mina."

"Why?" Chaeyoung found interest again. What did Mina have to do with anything?

"Oh, I get it," Dahyun laughed and kept eating as if she fully understood now what the mother had meant.

"Well, I just think it's fair to know when you'll be with a girl in the house... alone."

Mr. Son cleared his throat and sat uncomfortably on his seat, also apparently understanding where the conversation was going.

Chaeyoung had not caught up. "So why not Tzuyu or Momo?"

"Because those are your friends." Chaeyoung's mother had the most patience when it came to talking to her daughter.

"I don't get it." Chaeyoung scratched her head, this conversation was becoming ridiculous.

"I had the impression that Mina was a special friend."

"Special? What does that even mean?"

"As in dating, Chaengie," Dahyun explained way better. "Mom thinks you like her."

"What?!" Chaeyoung got up. How could they say that? It made no sense.

"Alright, alright, I'm sorry, darling, no need to get upset, I just had the feeling, but if that's not the case then it's fine. Still, you should let us know when you'll be here with her or someone else, okay?"

"Okay," Chaeyoung sat back in annoyance. She hated the idea. Plus, how could her mother get that idea? Did anyone else get that impression? Did Dahyun get that impression? She had asked her before if she liked Mina. Maybe she still thought so. She needed to set things straight.

'No more distractions' Chaeyoung thought once dinner was over and she got to her room. She was not that unaware of how she had been avoiding certain things or how she had been delaying the last lesson just because she did not want to stay away from Mina, but why? It was all so stupid. She needed to concentrate. She needed to get back on track, again. After all, those kisses meant nothing else than experience for the real thing. 

She took her phone and went to her notes app. She saw the first thing written in her reminders. Figure it out. She had figured it out, right? Dahyun was the real thing, no more delays. So she marked it done. 

To Mina
Let's have the last lesson

Chapter Text

Drips of sweat were running down her forehead. Neck, back and chest, probably too. The compilation of epic classical music was still being heard at the basement. The punching bag was swinging back slowly into its static position.

Chaeyoung had just finished her training and was using her microfiber towel to dry her face. She turned down the music and grabbed her water bottle when steps interrupted her mid-drink.

"Looking good!" Dahyun took the last step and gave a thumbs-up to Chaeyoung.

"Dub," Chaeyoung left her water and towel. "is it dinner time?"

"Yep," Dahyun wandered around and punched the bag not managing to move it one bit. "You should hurry."

Chaeyoung smiled at the silly attempt. If anything the bag had moved Dahyun. "Okay," she answered still with heart eyes.

"Look at you all smiley," Dahyun suddenly said. "You seem really happy."

"It's what sports do," Chaeyoung explained. It was a well-known fact that exercising produces positive energy. "I recommend it."

"Yeah," Dahyun scoffed. "Sports."

Chaeyoung frowned. She was not lying. "It's true."

"I know, I know," Dahyun said as she walked to the stairs. "Come on, get changed."

Chaeyoung felt Dahyun was changing the subject but let it pass, she could not be sure and it was not a big deal if the girl did not trust the power a well-exercised body had for the mind.

They had dinner as usual after Chaeyoung washed up and it was time to go to bed, they had classes tomorrow but Dahyun stopped her before they parted ways.

"Hey, Chaeng, it's not that late."

"Yeah, I know, I thoug—"

"What if we see a movie or something? It's been a while since we have had the time," Dahyun proposed interrupting her. She seemed excited. Chaeyoung loved the idea.

"Yes! I actually have skittles and—" Chaeyoung got so happy about it so fast, her thoughts were mixing. She turned around and walked downstairs to the kitchen. "Mom, do we have popcorn?!"

"Hey, hey, not so fast, yes," her mother said. "Left cabinet, at the back."

"We are having a movie night," Chaeyoung explained as she registered the cabinet.

"On a school night? Just don't stay up too late."

"Found it," Chaeyoung found the package and moved to the microwave. Popcorn was made soon enough ready to be taken upstairs as well as a couple of refreshments. She was so ready for this, she had not realized she missed it too until Dahyun had proposed it.

"You are always ready for movie night," Dahyun smiled as she stole some popcorn and they walked into Chaeyoung's room. "I put some blankets and pillows on top of the bed so we don't mess up yours, I also looked for the movie, sounds fun."

"Yeah, I don't mind," Chaeyoung said throwing herself on the bed. She liked any movie if it was with Dahyun.

Soon enough they were cozy and comfortable on top of the bed. Leaving Mina aside, Chaeyoung was not a fan of anyone touching her, except for Dahyun, so she was happily enjoying supporting her head on Dahyun's lap as this one played with her hair from time to time. The scene seemed more romantic than it actually was. For Chaeyoung it meant everything, but they had always been touchy like this. Friendship at its finest.

Half into the movie, though, Chaeyoung felt slightly uncomfortable. She started thinking about how she had not a date yet for the last lesson. Mina had replied to her text but just with an I'll let you know and after a couple of days she had not got another reply. She needed that lesson for this to be real, right?

She was not sure what it was but Dahyun's touch suddenly felt annoying. She didn't want to show it, though. She tried to breathe in and out slowly to stop the odd sensation she usually got when anyone else would try and touch her. 'this doesn't happen with Dub' Chaeyoung felt so upset. Breathing exercises did not work so she took her phone trying to make it less bright and checked her calendar hoping she would feel less anxious. It felt wrong.

She tried fixing her position slowly, but she was not very subtle. She couldn't take it anymore. She paused the movie and got up walking straight to her whiteboard where she started erasing dates and writing them again, checking if everything was okay, for sure something was wrong.

Dahyun just sat on the bed. "Chaeng, what is it?"

"Nothing, I just— just need to do this now."

"Did something bother you?" This time Dahyun got up and walked closer.

"No, how? No, no—"

"I know you change this thing when something's bothering you, plus I saw you checking your notes," Dahyun said tenderly. "It's fine, we can finish the movie another time. Should I go?"

"Yes, please." Chaeyoung hated the idea of pushing Dahyun aside but at the same time, she just had to, otherwise, the sensation was not going to leave, she needed to be alone.

"Don't stress, you know I know you, I don't mind this," she said probably referring to Chaeyoung's odd behavior. Chaeyoung wished she could control it or ignore it. It kind of sucked. "I'll see you tomorrow, sleep soon, okay?"

And she left. Chaeyoung fixed her whole whiteboard and even watered her cactus as the last resource. As time passed she felt better. But she could not believe this has happened during movie night.

She got in bed, all the way in bed covering her head and she unlocked her phone. There was no denying, she wanted to call Mina. Most times, whenever Chaeyoung wanted something, she would plainly do it, express it, or ask for it. Now, she felt it was a bad idea to call. Plus, she had never called without asking first.

She sighed. She was not going to be able to sleep if she didn't do it.

To Mina
Can I call you?

It was about to be midnight, she was not expecting a reply. She stared at the chat for a while until her eyes were almost closing. Maybe she was going to be able to sleep after all.

But the screen suddenly changed, Mina was calling. Now she was not sure why she had asked for it.

As usual, she did not say anything once she had accepted the call. Mina, apparently, knew it was going to be like that because she talked right away.

"Something happened?"

"Yes."

"Elaborate."

"I hate it when people touch me without letting me know first."

"I know."

"How?"

"I just figured, you react better when I let you know first...way better," Mina trailed off.

"But when we met, you held my hand, you checked my knuckles and you held my chin and I didn't react."

"Well," Mina sighed as if trying to come up with something. "You were already upset, maybe—"

"I know most people don't get annoyed by the things I get annoyed with."

There was a bit of silence and then Mina said, "That's good that you know, cute dimples. We should get some sleep."

"Yes, you're right..."

"Goodnight, now."

"Night," Chaeyoung said and the call ended. Somehow she felt way better and she fell asleep right away. No thoughts of a certain lesson came to mind.

The next morning she woke up refreshed. She long forgot about the movie incident and was ready to conquer another day of being the most outstanding student ever. In class, of course. Not extracurriculars. She had not even thought about it.

Today was 'history test, math assignment, students council meeting' Yes, Chaeyoung was feeling anxious about that one. She had got out of her head the idea of revenge but... 'what if...'

Also, she kind of wanted to check if president Im Nayeon was actually mean. Not that she didn't trust Mina, but, well, Chaeyoung had the president on a high pedestal. She needed at least to talk to her about something not school related. Hard task.

But that's exactly what she tried to accomplish at that meeting. All gatherings have about the same scheme. She gets there with a perfect amount of time left to start, she is greeted by treasurer Park Jihyo who is always there first, then vice president Yoo Jeongyeon acts as if she were the president, and sometimes Minatozaki Sana—whose role remains unknown—is late, which Chaeyoung's despises and even writes it in all caps on the notes for the meetings that she is supposed to submit to their shared online folder so hopefully, the girl feels guilty but no one seems to care about that.

Then, just when it's about to be time, Im Nayeon arrives. Chaeyoung is sure she is the queen of making an entrance because, wow. 'girls? does she actually like girls?' Chaeyoung felt a bit nervous that she was not going to be able to keep it together and might end up plainly asking that. She couldn't, Mina had trusted her. 'don't ask that, not like that, you got this'

Chaeyoung came up with a quick plan. She should have thought about it better sooner, but this is what she came up with while also trying to keep a record of everything being said. You see, Chaeyoung always leaves right away when the meeting is over. There is no need to waste more time, right? But this time, it was different.

The plan was simple, she was going to forget something. Yeah, seems hard to believe, she never forgets anything—although we all know that has been failing these days—but either way, she was going to forget her backpack. Why? Because even if president Im Nayeon is the last to arrive, she is always the last to leave. That way, Chaeyoung will find her casually and will try to start small talk, which Chaeyoung dreads but, seems important in order to get to know her.

Was she doing too much? She didn't think so, plus, it had nothing to do with revenge, right? Finally, it was time.

The meeting ended and the first to leave was treasurer Park Jihyo, once she had directed some words to the president and they both smiled. The red-headed girl grabbed Minatozaki Sana's hand as this one waved happily goodbye, even to Chaeyoung and they walked away. Chaeyoung, instead of her usual, see you next week and walking out in a second, got up slowly and just said, "See you." Forgetting her backpack as she left the room.

She waited in a few classrooms down smiling and fidgeting with her fingers, she was anxious yet proud of her plan, seemed infallible. After a couple of minutes, one or two max, she walked back to the room. She heard noises when close, so she smiled wider because Im Nayeon was definitely there. Yet, she had to stop before getting inside, right at the door. She was not alone.

"...it's good but it would be more efficient if that money went to the fundraiser!" Chaeyoung heard the vice president's Yoo Jeongyeon voice with her usual tone of believing she knew best.

"Don't raise your voice at me, vice president, you know what? You have to stop doing that," President Im Nayeon answered unbothered and with what Chaeyoung identified as a perfect example of why she was president and the other vice president, Im Nayeon was just better at it. Chaeyoung wanted to see her putting the other one in her place, so she moved quietly forward enough to get a view.

They were both just standing in front of the other. Im Nayeon's platform shoes made her look taller and her whole presence seemed superior from Yoo Jeongyeon's shocked face, who also took a step back reaching the meeting table with her hands.

Chaeyoung felt she should interrupt now, but Jeongyeon replied, "Doing what?"

Nayeon scoffed and smirked as she looked down for a second and then back at the girl in front of her again. "Acting as if you were so much better than me at my own role, pretending you would much rather have it when in reality... you don't want to be in my position," Nayeon leaned closer, way closer for anyone having a conversation or discussion, "you don't want to be president, you want the president."

Im Nayeon's smile grew wider as the vice president's face filled with anger. 'want the president?' Chaeyoung was confused.

"I'm not stupid," Nayeon said again this time turning around, probably ready to collect her stuff and leave. "I can see you staring at me all the time, no one is buying your act."

Chaeyoung could see and hear Im Nayeon's satisfaction. She had definitely put the girl in her place, even if the way she did it was confusing for Chaeyoung 'want the president?'

Maybe she definitely needed to interrupt now because Nayeon was about to get out and she could not be discovered there. But she was also stopped this time.

Just when president Im Nayeon was about to get her things, vice president Yoo Jeongyeon reacted, walked forward, pulled Nayeon's wrist making her turn around with a protesting sound, turned them around, and joined their lips in a rough kiss.

Chaeyoung closed her eyes immediately. She was sure she was not supposed to be seeing that. But she opened them again, in time to see Nayeon release the table she had held onto just like Jeongyeon had done before and used her hands to push the girl away, only managing to stop the kiss.

"Let's not forget, madame president, who got me this position," Jeongyeon seemed to be the satisfied one now. "Maybe you just wanted me closer."

Nayeon pushed the girl this time actually making her move. She had an expression Chaeyoung had never seen before, it was like anger but also sadness, Chaeyoung was not sure but it definitely was a negative one. "Don't ever touch me again," she spat the words with disgust just as she retrieved her things and walked to the door all so fast. So fast Chaeyoung didn't realize she was going to get caught. "Wh— How long have you been there?!"

"I—" Chaeyoung couldn't say anything because she was pulled inside the room as the door closed behind her. It all happened way too fast for Chaeyoung's liking, she lost her cool. "You like girls?"

"Why are you here?!" 'okay, yes, that was not the way, damn it, Chaeyoung'

"She forgot her backpack," Jeongyeon said as she lifted Chaeyoung's all-red backpack.

"You knew someone might potentially come inside?!"

"You started it," Jeongyeon shrugged. "I was gonna take it to her."

Chaeyoung had never seen president Im Nayeon lose her cool, ever. "You're not gonna go around telling your friends, are you, Chaeyoung?" Her gaze implored her not to. Chaeyoung could tell how important it was for her. "You're so correct all the time."

Something about that sentence bothered Chaeyoung, she was not sure what. She was not planning on telling her friends, though. "I won't." Only to Mina, technically, not a friend friend, more like her instructor.

"You can't," Nayeon insisted.

"She won't," Jeongyeon said. "If she appreciates her life."

Chaeyoung felt that was a threat. It also made her uncomfortable. Were the people she met with once a week actually so mean? Or was it the circumstances?

"Just— Let's all forget about this," Nayeon said last as she sighed heavily and walked through the door, finally leaving.

Chaeyoung stood there awkwardly, she needed to go but she was not moving.

"What are you waiting for now?" Jeongyeon frowned throwing her backpack at her feet. "Get lost."

So Chaeyoung, slightly humiliated by her seniors, took her backpack and left utterly confused. She headed straight outside school. No need for her to stay inside any longer. That whole event had consumed so much of her social battery.

It was a bit past 5 pm. She had not agreed to meet Mina today like the last council meeting but she wanted to see her. She needed to know this.

To Mina
Can I call you?

After more minutes than last night, Chaeyoung got a call. But this time she talked first.

"I need to talk to you."

"Hello to you too, cute dimples," Mina said calmly. "You always seem to skip greetings."

"Hello, then," Chaeyoung felt slightly frustrated to be scolded again for the same thing.

"Don't get mad, I was just reminding you."

"Thank you," Chaeyoung said. She meant it. "Sorry, I just need to say something."

"What is it?"

"No, you said I can't talk about that here."

"What? Where are you?"

"The parking lot, but technically still school property so I can't—"

"Alright, just—" Mina seemed to get away from the phone and a bit of noise bothered Chaeyoung's ear. After a few annoying seconds, she talked again. "Stay there."

"Are you here?"

"Sort of," Mina said still sounding a bit far from the microphone. "You have your red backpack, right?"

"Yes," Chaeyoung smiled finding it funny that for a second she could have almost said no to that if things had been different. "But where are you?" She turned around to look at the school entrance, but only a couple of students were still there.

"I'm in my bedroom," Mina said.

"What? Then—"

"Ms. Son," a gentle voice came from behind Chaeyoung who turned around a bit fast.

"Okay, Chaeyoung, you remember Mr. Jung, right?" Mina said from the other side of the line. "He is gonna drive you here, would that be okay? Then we can talk."

Chaeyoung did not appreciate how suddenly things were happening this day. At all. But she did want to talk to Mina and if Mina was not at school, then this was fine. "Fine," Chaeyoung said as Mina replied with a goodbye and ended the call.

Only one problem, that terrible smell her nose could not stand, not again. Maybe she was not going.

"Don't worry," Mr. Jung suddenly said while opening the door. "Ms. Myoui made sure to enhance the car's smell."

'oh' Then if that was the case, Chaeyoung got inside immediately. Mr. Jung closed the door and circled around to get to the driver's seat. Chaeyoung was sure the whole car smelled like Skittles, that was fantastic. "How is it that it smells so good?" The ride started and Chaeyoung was delighted.

"Car diffuser," Mr. Jung replied. "Different scents, she insisted on combining them."

Chaeyoung felt so genuinely happy. No one really minds when smells bother her, she just endures it. Suddenly she was reminded of last week, Mina resting on her chest, their hands messily intertwined, the last sun rays illuminating her blonde hair. She wanted to be close to her.

She got lost thinking about it all when in no time, they arrived. She didn't wait for Mr. Jung to open the door for her, just exited on her own. Mina was by the main huge door.

"Thank you, Mr. Jung," the senior said kindly.

The man bowed his head slightly and Chaeyoung realized she should be saying thanks too. She actually felt really grateful, so she copied. "Thank you, Mr. Jung."

"No problem, Ms. Son." He looked at Mina again. "Ms. Myoui." And he turned to get in the car again.

"Was it better this time?" Mina asked once they got inside.

Chaeyoung wanted to answer a thousand times yes and probably jump too, but she was not figuring out how to express that. Then she remembered something and she felt it matched how she had felt in the car.

"Do you remember our second lesson?"

"Uhh..." Mina trailed off as she guided Chaeyoung up to her room. Chaeyoung has a great memory, but she would not have been able to remember the way to Mina's room. "Mh... Oh! That one, yeah, yeah."

They got there, apparently. Mina opened a door and invited Chaeyoung in. It definitely was Mina's room. Although, this time Chaeyoung recognized the walls as teal and not turquoise as she remembered. Maybe it was the sun or maybe they had painted? That seemed unlikely. Still, the color sits right by Chaeyoung.

Mina sat on her bed with her head tilted, probably waiting for Chaeyoung's reply.

"Could you... be soft with me again?"

Mina smiled at her. The smile she always gave her. She had a bit of trouble wording that out, she was not sure why, but she did it. "Come here," she said softly patting next to her.

Chaeyoung moved forward and sat awkwardly on the bed. She felt something on her stomach, not like when you're hungry or nauseous, but something odd.

"Did you get that feeling again?" Mina asked staring at Chaeyoung's profile. "Like that lesson."

"It's just that I really liked the smell of the car."

"Well, I'm glad 'cause I spent a lot of time mixing stuff and now the smell lives in my nose."

Chaeyoung smiled. She knew the smell could not live there, she found it funny. "Why did you?"

"Because it bothered you." Seemed the obvious reason, but when things bother Chaeyoung not many help. So Chaeyoung was stuck with that sensation. "So, soft you said."

"Yeah."

"Should I hold you?"

"Yes, please."

"Okay," Mina said and moved closer wrapping her arms around Chaeyoung's torso, strongly enough. "Better?"

"Mhh," Chaeyoung answered while closing her eyes. She really liked it.

Mina moved her neck forward and supported her chin on Chaeyoung's shoulder. Chaeyoung turned to look but avoided Mina's eyes, instead, she looked somewhere lower. "Do you want a kiss?" Mina said softly.

"I really like your kisses," Chaeyoung answered honestly.

"You have nothing to compare it with."

"Still, I like how you kiss me."

"Then..." Mina released Chaeyoung and moved a hand to lift her chin as usual. Their lips grazed and Chaeyoung felt Mina's breathing. A few seconds of waiting were enough for her heart to pound strongly against her chest and then Mina leaned closer, only releasing her chin when their lips met. The kiss was simple and slow. That's how they usually started kissing but this time it didn't escalate.

Because Chaeyoung pulled away, suddenly remembering why she was there. "Consent."

"Wh— sorry, what?" Mina usually understands Chaeyoung but now she looked startled. "I—"

"She did not ask for it in any way, not even how you do it, that's it. You lift my chin and then I know and I accept, that's how you ask for my consent, but she didn't, at all. It was strong and fast."

"Chaeyoung," Mina moved her face back. "What are you talking about? Did someone do that to you? Who? Are you okay? No one should kiss you with—"

"Not me, Im Nayeon."

At the mention of the name, Mina's face changed completely. From being worried about Chaeyoung to plain confusion and a hint of awkwardness.

Mina cleared her throat and asked as usual, "Elaborate."

"So, I had this plan," Chaeyoung said turning to Mina, sitting better and crossing her legs on top of the bed. "I'll explain everything."

Chaeyoung seemed excited to tell, Mina seemed to like that so she mimicked her position and crossed her legs too. "Tell me all about it, then," she smiled and suddenly her awkward face from before was gone.

"It was infallible, see, but I was not counting on this variable."

"Right," Mina nodded as if it was obvious. Chaeyoung liked that she matched her enthusiasm.

"I decided to forget my backpack at the meeting. I know, I know, hard to believe I would ever," Chaeyoung added almost laughing after seeing Mina's impressed face. Maybe a bit too impressed. "But I did. I'm usually first to leave and president Im Nayeon is last so I changed a bit and left slowly while forgetting my backpack and then I was coming back to get it so I could—"

Wait a second. Chaeyoung had completely forgotten she would have to explain to Mina why she had decided to come up with a plan. A plan for what? She was not supposed to get to know any weaknesses. 'oh, oh'

"So you could..."

"You know," Chaeyoung said mindlessly scratching her head a bit too obviously. "Just chat."

"Chaeyoung."

"Okay, well, I did not intend to keep on going with any revenge idea, I just wanted to get to know her a bit."

"I told you to let it go." Mina did not sound mad or annoyed, just entertained apparently. Maybe a bit... blushed?

"I know, I did, I just wanted to know her a bit, pure curiosity." Chaeyoung almost believed that herself, she repeated it many times before getting through with her plan in the first place. "So, anyway— I couldn't talk to her like I intended because she was not alone."

"That's the variable."

"Exactly, vice president Yoo Jeongyeon was there and I heard her so I didn't go in but then— it all happen quite fast."

"The what?"

"Presi—"

"Cute dimples, just call them by their name."

"Okay." Chaeyoung was okay with that request even if she liked the full version. "Nayeon started it, they had a discussion, I guess. Jeongyeon was complaining about the money distribution but Nayeon asked her to stop acting like that, finally, you know? Vice— Jeongyeon is always trying to act like the president and I always wondered why Nayeon did not say anything about it, but now she did and I didn't quite get it at first," Chaeyoung scratched her head again, "but it does make sense now."

Mina kept nodding and adding reactions to everything Chaeyoung was saying. Chaeyoung liked being heard like this. "What did she say?"

"She asked Jeongyeon to stop acting as if she wanted to be president because in reality, she wanted the president," Chaeyoung chuckled a bit. "I thought it was a ridiculous sentence but then I got which meaning of want she was referring to."

"Oh," Mina tilted her head. "That's... " But she didn't finish so Chaeyoung kept going.

"Jeongyeon seemed mad and grabbed the president's arm and kissed her. That's not really nice as lifting my chin, is it?"

Mina did not reply for a few seconds. Then she said. "No, is not. What happened then?"

"I got caught outside so I was pulled inside the room. Nayeon asked me to not go around telling my friends about any of it, but you're not my friend, no, so I was glad I could tell you because I had to tell you and then she left. Jeongyeon threw my backpack at me and asked me to get lost, they were quite rude but I figured they ought to be given I had just witnessed something I was not supposed to." Chaeyoung finished all at full speed. But then she added, "Oh, and I asked her if she liked girls, I shouldn't have said that."

Mina was frowning at everything but smiled hearing the last part. "Yeah, that's not very smart."

"I figured."

"Well, cute dimples, that's it," Mina said before sighing. "I don't know how you managed but you found her weakness right away."

"I did?"

"You did," Mina replied. "Her own desire. Liking girls but not allowing herself to act on that."

Chaeyoung thought for a second. Why would anyone not allow themselves happiness? Then she remembered what Mina had said about what had happened to them. It was sad, yes, but not enough to get the idea of revenge out of her head. Not after how she had turned Mina's social status to the ground. "That's not really living, is it?"

"I know, that's why you have to let it go," Mina said this time looking for Chaeyoung's eyes. "Just like I did. There's no point dealing with any of it."

"Right." Chaeyoung was not promising anything. She almost felt the urge to ask Angelo for advice, he seemed to be happy to help with this. But she knew she couldn't go into details so that might not be a good idea.

Suddenly Mina kneeled on the bed, apparently, the conversation was over. "We should not worry about it."

"But..." Chaeyoung wanted to discuss it further. She actually wanted to know what Mina thought about it all and stuff but then Mina leaned closer and used a hand to lift her chin making her stop talking. "Oh." Chaeyoung knew what that meant.

So, she was not going to insist. She accepted Mina's lips gladly. But the senior stopped just when Chaeyoung was about to start enjoying it a bit too much. She actually sighed in frustration.

"How about we get that lesson?" Mina said softly. But to Chaeyoung that was an abomination.

"What?! No. How could you— It was not even scheduled, I didn't know beforehand, it can't be—"

"Okay, okay, yeah, I forgot," Mina leaned back and stopped Chaeyoung from rambling any longer. "Not now."

"Thanks." This time she sighed in relief.

"But we should definitely schedule it, you know?"

Chaeyoung knew all too well. She could not keep postponing it. Why was she even doing that? It was silly.

"You're right," Chaeyoung said. It was settled, she had to do it. Plus, she took her phone and saw the time, Dahyun must be home now, it was time to leave. "How about Monday?"

"Will you practice over the weekend?" It probably was a joke but Chaeyoung did not feel it that way.

"No, how could I? That's why I'm getting lessons."

Mina smiled looking down and shook her head. "That's good, then."

Chaeyoung ignored this and got up. "As much as I loved the smell of the car this time, I can go on my own, I wouldn't want to bother Mr. Jung again."

"You don't even know where you're at." Mina got up too and smiled at her.

"I have my phone."

"Don't be silly, it's literally his job. In fact, I'll go with you, would you like that?"

"Okay," Chaeyoung shrugged. She found it wasteful. Why would Mina go just to come back? But alright.

As usual, Mina used her phone to request the car and after a few minutes, they were on the road sitting at the backseats. The faint scent of skittles making Chaeyoung happy. She definitely was starting to love these rides.

They didn't talk more than greetings and thanks to Mr. Jung. That was until Mina asked softly, "Did she look sad?"

"Who did?" Chaeyoung turned to look at Mina.

"Nayeon," Mina said almost afraid.

"Ah," Chaeyoung looked through the window again. She relived the events in her head. "She did. Mostly angry but I saw sadness too. Weird."

"Yeah... weird," Mina nodded and turned to her window as well. It was quiet until they got to the Son's house.

Chaeyoung bowed politely once outside to Mr. Jung and gave thanks again. He headed straight to the driver's seat after that. Mina had her door opened and was standing right outside to say goodbye to Chaeyoung.

"So, Monday," Chaeyoung said.

"I'll see you at five."

"Yes," Chaeyoung felt sad about it for some reason. "So, bye." Chaeyoung turned around to walk home after that.

"Hey, cute dimples." But Mina called for her making her look back. "I'm glad we are not friends."

Chaeyoung frowned. Mina did not say anything about it then. She figured the senior was glad because otherwise, she would not have been able to tell her about what she had witnessed today. But she asked for clarification, "Why?"

Mina walked a few steps away from the car door to close the distance Chaeyoung had created by walking home and leaned to whisper against her ear, "Because friends don't kiss as much as we do."

Mina turned around and walked swiftly back to the car, she closed the door and waved while smirking at Chaeyoung, who was still there speechless.

Her heartbeat definitely experienced some change, she felt her cheeks hot. Mina signaled for her to go inside with her hand that had been waving. Apparently, they were not driving away until she got inside the house, so she scratched her nape and turn to walk home again, this time actually getting inside.

She closed the door just when Dahyun was coming down the stairs.

"Hey, Chaeng," she said and greeted her with a smile. "Did you catch a cold? Your cheeks are burning," Dahyun used a hand to feel Chaeyoung's temperature. "Seems okay." She took her hand away and walked to the kitchen where, apparently, she had been previously going.

Chaeyoung stood there once again, still not really reacting to anything happening. Until she got a text.

From Mina
Mr. Jung likes you.

That was even more confusing. Not the text, but the way her heart skipped a beat.

Chapter Text

One thing Chaeyoung adored about the weekends was the time she got to spend with her friends. And mostly Dahyun. Not to mention, she was a bit excited about seeing Angelo and maybe asking him more about how to get back at someone. Not that she intended to act on it, of course.

But Chaeyoung didn't know if he was going so she asked Dahyun before going out while she was doing her makeup. Chaeyoung had not really noticed how she no longer got nervous about being close to Dahyun's lips.

"Details..." Chaeyoung mumbled as she drew a tiny star on Dahyun's cheekbone. "There."

"Thanks, Chaeng."

"So I was just wondering, will Angelo be there today?"

Dahyun sighed leaving the mirror she had been using to check her recently applied makeup aside. "Chaeng, I don't get why you don't like him, but maybe you can try a bit."

Chaeyoung was confused. She had just asked a simple question. She scratched her head in annoyance. Something didn't feel right. "I—"

"I mean it, Chaeng. He is really nice."

"I just—" Chaeyoung was not sure but she got mad. "Whatever."

Dahyun let out a short laugh. "Of course, whatever."

They stopped there, but the walk to the diner was uncomfortable. Chaeyoung hated feeling uncomfortable and she hated even more not knowing why. Usually, she would plainly ask what was wrong. Dahyun, most of the time, was kind enough to explain everything to her and answer her most silly questions. But now, she didn't feel like asking. Maybe it will pass.

So they got there as usual. Tzuyu was already there so Chaeyoung felt slightly better because she got along so well with her.

"Tzuyu, hi," Chaeyoung said and sat way too fast.

Dahyun sat too, next to Tzuyu and not Chaeyoung but this time Chaeyoung did not mind.

"I'm always early," Tzuyu said frowning. "The funny part is that I actually try to be late but to no use."

"Well, that's excellent," Chaeyoung who loved punctuality found that a blessing. "It is way better than being late."

"Of course you would say that," Tzuyu smiled. "What should we get in the meantime? The usual?"

"Bacon cheese fries!" Momo shouted as she walked to their booth and sat all messily next to Chaeyoung. It goes without saying Chaeyoung hates when Momo does that. She tried scooting aside subtly. Momo noticed. "Get here," she said ruffling Chaeyoung's hair, which happened usually and Chaeyoung also disliked but has learned to endure. "No Angelo today?"

Dahyun made a face but answered either way, "Yeah, he is coming."

"Awesome," Chaeyoung said without any other intention than actually meaning awesome but the girls apparently, thought she was being sarcastic. Funny, because she is not really great at being sarcastic.

"Would you stop that?" Dahyun seemed really upset today. "I actually—"

"What happened?" Momo asked sensing the tension.

"I have no idea," Chaeyoung said. "I really want him here. Why would I lie?"

"You do kind of dislike him, Chaeng," Tzuyu said softly.

Chaeyoung wanted to protest. Maybe she hated the fact that he had kissed Dahyun. But as far as Chaeyoung knows, that only happened once, so, she can let that pass. And besides that, she has no issue with Dahyun having a friend.

She did not say anything about it, though. Because just then Angelo arrived there. "Scoot aside," Chaeyoung said pushing Momo out of the booth.

Momo looked at Angelo smiling while inviting him to sit where she had been. "You go here today, apparently."

"Uh..." he said a bit confused but sat there either way. "Hi, guys."

Three people did fit comfortably in the booth, yet he seemed smashed between Momo and Chaeyoung.

Angelo was wearing his usual flannel and jeans, he seemed confused but not as confused as when Chaeyoung talked next. "So, what do you do once you obtain someone's weakness?" Yeah, Chaeyoung forgot all about Dahyun acting mad and everything the second she saw Angelo.

And, apparently, her question made all the girls realize something because they all changed their expressions.

"Huh," Momo said while nodding. "She actually meant what she was saying."

"I can see that," Dahyun looked a bit guilty. "I'm sorry, Chaeng."

"What for? You did invite him so, that's perfect." Chaeyoung couldn't care less about whatever argument they had had. He was there, she needed advice.

"So," Angelo said this time less confused, probably remembering last Sunday's conversation. "You actually got information."

"Yes." Chaeyoung felt proud of herself. She really thought there was no way she would get any.

"Wait," Tzuyu said. "How is it that you're asking for advice from him? We can help too."

"Yeah, we can help too," Momo supported the statement with eagerness.

"You guys just care about gossip."

"Come on," Momo said. "That's not true, we are friends, we help each other."

Chaeyoung turned to Angelo as if he had all the answers. "Well," he said a bit caught up in the spotlight. "It is true most of the time that your enemies are also your friend's enemies, no questions asked."

"Really?"

"Chaeng, you should really tell us what you're up to, this whole revenge thing," Dahyun said seriously, "I thought it was just a question at first but if you're actually doing something then you'll need help. Or someone to stop you."

Chaeyoung was not really doing anything, was she? She promised Mina, so she only was gathering information and that was it. In a way, she wanted to tell her friends, but she couldn't, could she? So many questions.

"Did something happen at the council's meetings?" Tzuyu suddenly proposed. Chaeyoung panicked. Why would she ask that? Did she know something? 'oh, my god'

"Why would you think that?" Chaeyoung tried her best to talk normally.

Tzuyu was about to answer but someone came to take their order now that everyone had arrived. They got the fries Momo had asked and some milkshakes.

"Well, I was just guessing," Tzuyu kept going. "That's pretty much your social circle unless you're trying to get back at one of us, that I doubt, then something must have happened there."

"Or with Mina," Momo nodded. "Good thinking. Tzuyu."

"But they seemed fine the other day," Dahyun said. "I even talked to her, it's unlikely Chaeng is plotting revenge against her."

"It sounds so fun," Momo laughed. "Chaeng plotting revenge, why would that happen? Who even plans revenge? Only this girl would say it like that."

Chaeyoung was a bit in shock. Her friends were talking about her as usual, but now they were trying to guess and their guesses were not far from reality.

"It's cute," Dahyun smiled at her. "Want us to help, Chaeng?"

Dahyun's silver hair looked so beautiful today. Chaeyoung stared at the star she had drawn, not Dahyun's eyes. She liked it when Dahyun called her cute. She liked it when Dahyun offered her help. 'wow' Her tummy for sure felt funny.

"I do," Chaeyoung said softly getting out of her trance. "But I can't give out much information."

"Okay, we can all work with that."

"You have to decide first," Angelo said. "Now that you've gathered this person's weakness then you have to decide what do with it."

"How so?" Chaeyoung couldn't get enough of this guy with no sense of style's wisdom. She took out her phone to take notes.

"Once you know, you have different options. Not good ones," he tilted his head thinking. "Revenge is not really that good."

"I know that," Chaeyoung said. "But I think it's necessary this time."

"Okay, just checking," he said smiling and throwing a glance at Dahyun who smiled back. Chaeyoung missed that interaction busy and ready to take note, but it seemed as if Dahyun couldn't be happier about Angelo's patience with Chaeyoung and his willingness to help. "Then, first you have blackmailing."

"Blackmailing..."

"Usually used if you want to obtain something, right?"

"Yeah... I don't think I want that." Chaeyoung was not sure of what exactly she expected to obtain with this revenge.

"You can also use this weakness to your advantage in different ways depending on what it is but I figure you can't say so I'm not sure how to give more options."

Chaeyoung wanted to hear more but he was right, she couldn't say. The food arrived and they took a moment to taste it and give compliments on it as usual before returning to their conversation.

"I have an idea," Momo said chewing on her long-awaited bacon cheese fries. "Why don't you tell us what's going on?"

"I support that idea," Tzuyu said.

Chaeyoung thought about it, what exactly couldn't she say? For sure not what had happened between Mina and Nayeon, that was a big no. Also not what she had witnessed between Nayeon and Jeongyeon. But maybe she could say what were her intentions.

"Chaeng you don't have to say anything you don't want," Dahyun reminded her.

"Let her," Momo insisted to which Dahyun made the action of smacking her without really doing it. Momo answered back with the same motion.

Chaeyoung was going to talk. Just enough. "I want to help Mina."

"Of course it was Mina." Momo stopped trying to fake a fight with Dahyun and seemed unimpressed. "I told you guys that girl will try and mess with our Chaengie's head."

"I don't think she is messing with her," Dahyun said sipping on her milkshake. "If anything she is a good impact, I've seen her at the house, Mom even made a rule for Chaeng to let us know when she'll be there with her alone."

At that, all the girls laughed and giggled. Chaeyoung's face turned pink. "Oh, Chaengie, you're a real player."

"What? No. What game?" Chaeyoung felt embarrassed and annoyed at Momo for talking badly about Mina again. "I'm not playing anything, and Mina is not bad."

"She is down bad."

"Yep."

"Guys," Chaeyoung protested. They were talking too fast. "Stop, please, I'm confused."

"Okay," Tzuyu said. "So, you want to help her."

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Because I want to."

"Right, but getting revenge on who?" Momo frowned. "What even happened? She is the one that—"

"You're wrong," Chaeyoung stopped her. "You are just talking and talking and you have no idea, that's what gossip does."

"That's it," Dahyun said. "Let's get the source herself." She took her phone out and started typing. "I'll call her."

"What?" Both Chaeyoung and Momo said. Chaeyoung more confused than her friend.

"I got her number the other day, I bet she'll be happy to answer me."

"No, no you can't," Chaeyoung hurried. "Dub, you can't, she'll get mad at me if she knows I'm talking about this."

"So she is forcing you to—"

"No one is forcing me, god, Momo," Chaeyoung was uncomfortable now. "I just want to help, she has not even asked me for anything, actually, she asked me to let it go, but I don't want to, so it's on me."

"Oh..." Momo considered it for a second. "Then, I'm sorry."

"Yeah, you say that to her along with all your senior classmates."

"oh."

'uh, oh' Chaeyoung had let that slip. She shouldn't have said that. 'Oh, no'

"Isn't she the one that—"

"Stop," Chaeyoung cried. "Just stop, stop, let's all forget I asked anything." She would have got up and left but she couldn't go past Angelo and Momo. So she only used her arms to hide her face leaning against the table—perfect way of shelter.

"Alright," Dahyun said softly. "Let's talk about something else, no more questions."

Chaeyoung wasn't looking. She tried to calm herself by breathing slowly. She felt guilty because she had asked. Maybe revenge was above her abilities, even if Dahyun was always reminding her that nothing was above her abilities. Chaeyoung knew many things were. She could hear the girls and Angelo talking about something different as if nothing had just happened, she knew they were used to her getting overwhelmed, except Angelo maybe, but he had to learn if he was staying around. She stopped focusing on her breathing and started listening again.

"I wasn't thrilled about it at first," Angelo was saying. "But I really like it now, especially with how you all have received me."

"Will you leave again?"

"I don't know, Dad said he was not moving again until graduation but, you never really know."

"I hope you stay," Momo said. "Your lack of fashion makes us look better."

"Yah, Hirai Momo!" Dahyun this time actually smacked her, apparently, because Chaeyoung heard a hitting sound. It made her laugh so she lifted her head slowly already feeling better. Momo deserved those once in a while. She agreed with her, though.

Angelo and Tzuyu were laughing too. "It's stylish enough, come on," Angelo said.

"You look like a lesbian, tell him, Chaeng."

Chaeyoung actually knew all about this. Not because she found it useful information but because when she came out, Momo and Dahyun made her research all about lesbian stereotypes, especially fashion. She refused to turn into a stereotype, though. So now she only considered that research information in her head that she could not get rid of yet was worth nothing. She could use it now, though.

"It is a common conception that flannels belong to the lesbian stereotype. As with all stereotypes, there is some truth to it, and the truth is that actually many do wear flannels. I don't see the appeal," Chaeyoung explained. "Plus, your soft features and curly hair make you look pretty much like a tomboy, another stereotype. Maybe you like stereotypes."

"T—thanks? Okay, I love my flannels, I'll take looking like a lesbian as a compliment."

"You should," Momo nodded. "Otherwise we'll think you're homophobic."

"I'm not homophobic," Angelo immediately frowned. "I have a gay uncle."

Momo, Tzuyu and Dahyun laughed at that. Chaeyoung was just listening. "That does not exempt you," Tzuyu said still laughing softly.

"Well, it's okay if you're a little homophobic," Momo suddenly added. "I'm a bit homophobic myself, you know?"

"W—what?" This time Chaeyoung talked. How could her friend be homophobic? She must be lying.

"Of course," Momo explained and pointed at Chaeyoung. "You guys find love and that's it, you stick with it, it's the most romantic thing ever, yet so tragic and long and all the yearning," Momo sighed. "That's pretty cool even if it hurts and makes you suffer, come on, I wish straight guys were as passionate."

"Am I going to suffer?" That's mainly the only part Chaeyoung got. She did not want to suffer. Nor make Dahyun suffer.

"Probably," Momo nodded. "I'm telling you, the drama is never ending with you guys."

"You seem to know quite a bit," Tzuyu observed. "Care to tell us something?"

"Yeah, right," Momo laughed it off. "I'm just saying."

"Well, that doesn't make you homophobic," Chaeyoung smiled in relief. "I was afraid we were gonna stop being friends."

"Oh, no, buddy, you'll have to deal with me for a long time."

"Unfortunately," Dahyun mumbled.

"I'm not either, just for the record," Angelo meddled.

"We believe you," Tzuyu smiled at him. "Should I ask for more fries?"

And that's how progressively their afternoon went. No more revenge questions were asked. They only kept talking about random topics here and there, where Chaeyoung would occasionally ask for something to be clarified or Momo would mess with her. Angelo seemed to fit in pretty well with them and accepted Momo's bullying. Chaeyoung felt glad to have such nice friends.

Although, as fulfilling as her afternoon had been, at night, she felt anxious. Something was missing. But this time, she knew just what that was.

To Mina
Tomorrow at five?

She stared at her phone screen for a whole minute until Mina replied. Mina always did.

From Mina
Of course, saved it as exercise

Chaeyoung smiled. She had forgotten they were supposed to be having boxing lessons. Maybe they could, after tomorrow's last lesson, maybe she could actually teach her something in return.

To Mina
Night

From Mina
Night

It was quite simple, their interaction, yet Chaeyoung enjoyed it a lot. She fell asleep only a tiny bit sad about everything ending. But hopeful that it would all be even better from then.

***

Uneventful. That's how Chaeyoung's morning was going, which was always a great thing because it meant her agenda was going okay. And today, of most days, she needed her agenda to work.

Last lesson. 'wow'

It seemed like forever since she made that agreement at the welcome dance. Forever since the senior approached her out of the blue and even made her taste the awful taste of vodka. 'eew'

But the senior also made her taste a lot of other flavors. 'I need some coffee'

Yeah, Chaeyoung was feeling only a bit anxious. Not too bad.

"Wait, so, number six is alternative a or c?"

"What? Neither," Chaeyoung turned to Tzuyu's exercise sheet. "The answer is zero."

"Oh..." Tzuyu bit the end of her pen and frowned slightly. "This is confusing."

"I'll explain."

"I'll try to understand."

Both of them had been using their study hour to complete math exercises at the library. Chaeyoung finished quite fast so she helped Tzuyu. Chaeyoung was not that great at explaining but she tried her best for Tzuyu.

After a while, Tzuyu finally understood... a bit.

"Well, don't worry, you'll get it for the test."

"It's fine," Tzuyu sighed. "I think I can get enough of a mark with what I already understand."

"That's—"

"So," Tzuyu closed her folder and crossed her arms on top of the table. "How can I help?"

"With what?"

"Your revenge."

"Oh," Chaeyoung got startled and checked her surroundings quickly. "You can't mention that here."

"No one's listening," Tzuyu reassured her. "I know you think we only care about gossip but that's not the case, I promise."

"Well, still, I can't talk about it here."

"Okay," Tzuyu said gathering her things. Time was almost up. "But we will, okay? You don't need Angelo to get advice, come on."

Chaeyoung chuckled. Tzuyu was right and she looked really offended. "Okay." She was not sure how and what she will say or explain but she believed Tzuyu meant good.

"Let's go. What are your plans for today?"

Chaeyoung got up too and they started walking back to their classroom. "After this period, well, home," Chaeyoung said not really elaborating further. She got the anxious feeling in her stomach again.

"What if we talk about it then?"

"Oh..." Busted. That's what Chaeyoung felt like. But it shouldn't be so she said the truth. "I have lessons with Mina today."

"Right," Tzuyu said nodding. "Because you never wanted to teach me but you teach her." Tzuyu did not sound actually mad, she was just joking.

"I taught you math just now."

"I don't care about math, I wanted to punch people."

Chaeyoung laughed loudly. "I don't teach her to punch people!"

"Okay, but you could use the same technique, right?"

"This is why I refused to teach you."

Once back into their usual classroom, Tzuyu headed to Dahyun and Angelo who were already there just chatting. Chaeyoung remained aside, ordering her things, probably as a way of keeping calm, the feeling in her stomach had increased.

Yeah, she was nervous. And she never really got much nervous about these lessons. Although, she knew that once she sees Mina, it will be okay.

It always was.

Chaeyoung felt slightly confused about the way her brain kept reassuring her just with the thought of the senior. How was that even possible? She needed to push it aside.

Classes ended for the day. Distracted, she lost her friends after a quick goodbye just to get to the west door quicker. Chaeyoung knew being distracted was never good but she was not really being herself.

4:45 pm

She had definitely arrived too soon. She sat on a set of stairs next to the big west entrance. A few students were leaving as well. Not many used it.

"That's why we meet here," Chaeyoung mumbled at loud as she tapped her lap anxiously. She wanted to keep it cool because she knew Mina would make fun of her if she was acting silly. She wanted to look serious, you know? An expert. Perfectly ready for a last lesson.

A couple of minutes before five and she saw her. Mina walking to the door, gorgeous blonde hair slightly moving with every step, all of Mina's gracefulness showing, and just then: her smile. The smile that caught her eyes when she saw Chaeyoung.

"Cute dimples," Mina stopped by her side. "You're sat, how long have you been here?"

"Not long," Chaeyoung got up, almost tripping, but she was sure no one noticed. "I'm ready."

"I can see that," Mina chuckled and started walking out. "I'm not sure we can go to my place today because—"

"Then mine," Chaeyoung said. "I don't mind." She just wanted to go through last lesson without any obstacles. She had learned so much, she was ready to graduate. Plus, she felt it had been so long since she got an actual lesson. She missed them.

They walked as usual, mostly in silence, with occasional exchanges. It was easy now. Even with Chaeyoung feeling like a nervous wreck. Unfortunately, for her, Mina noticed.

"Okay, what is it?" Mina asked turning to Chaeyoung as this one tried to open the door of her house with the wrong key.

"I feel nervous, I'm sorry," Chaeyoung said truthfully as she managed to unlock the door.

"No need to be nervous, cute dimples," Mina smiled. "It's just me."

Yeah, that was precisely the point. Chaeyoung knew it was just Mina, that thought comforted her and that comfort made her scared and therefore, she was nervous again. "I know that."

"Okay," Mina laughed a bit as they walked up the stairs almost by memory. "I'll keep it short."

"Until six it's fine," Chaeyoung said. No need to change the schedule just because of her nerves.

"Looking good," Mina said leaning down and inspecting Chaeyoung's cactus.

"Of course," Chaeyoung replied immediately. "I take care of things."

"Yeah? That's nice." Mina sounded genuinely happy about that. "Shall we?" she asked turning back at Chaeyoung who felt small sitting on the bed.

She stood up out of nervousness. "Yeah— yes."

"Last lesson..."

"Yep." Chaeyoung scratched her neck and felt like watering her cactus again but that would not be good for it.

"Focus, cute dimples."

"Right, no, yes, I know."

Mina sighed. "Okay, then, for last lesson—"

"Wait, wait... I just," Chaeyoung remembered what she had been planning on saying for now. "I wanted to thank you first. For everything. It feels like a long time ago that we started lessons and— and I just, I'm really thankful."

Mina looked at her with a smile and her head slightly tilted, almost analyzing her words for a second. Then she just said, "Save that for the end, I still might fail you."

"What? Don't say that. Fail me? No, that can't be," Chaeyoung panicked for a second. "No, right?" Failing changed everything. It couldn't happen.

"Well, you'll have to show me," Mina clapped, getting in teacher mode. "Today you'll be making a recap."

"Me?"

"Yes, what have you learned? You'll have to show me."

"Oh." Chaeyoung had not prepared for that, but she was so ready. She couldn't fail. Besides, it was easy. "Okay, I can do it."

"Of course you can," Mina smiled and sat in the middle of Chaeyoung's bed. "I'm all ears."

Chaeyoung sighed heavily and paced for a few seconds. Mina stared attentively.

"We have had five lessons. First, I wanted theory but you said no and so you taught me how to always start softly and don't shove my tongue down anyone's throat... not right away."

There was a bit of silence after her speech. Mina still had her head tilted as if recalling the events. Chaeyoung grew anxious.

"That's right," Mina said in her sweet soft voice. "Now show me."

"Not just theory," Chaeyoung nodded in understanding. "Okay." She was happy to show.

She took a few steps forward, standing right in front of Mina. She seemed taller in that position, she had to look Mina down. It was the perfect opportunity to do something she had never done before.

She used a hand to lift Mina's chin and leaned down to show her how you start a kiss. Soft and gentle, she had learned that.

Chaeyoung felt a bit awkward leaning down, usually, Mina would do most of the work.

"Keep showing me," Mina whispered against Chaeyoung's lips.

Chaeyoung liked the feeling that vibration brought, so she answered in the same way, "All the lessons?"

"Mh hm," Mina talked and brought Chaeyoung closer by the neck. Chaeyoung was definitely in an uncomfortable position, so she pushed Mina back and tried to kneel on the bed. Mina moved back and it all worked out without really stopping the kiss. She felt she was definitely passing this task.

Mina moved her hands to the youngest's waist. Chaeyoung felt funny. "I—" She awkwardly stopped the kiss but played it cool. "Then, uh, then you go faster, right?" She got closer again and kissed Mina not as gently as before. Almost sucking on her lips. Mina helped too, alternating the action. Oh, she had missed it.

Lost in the kiss, Chaeyoung felt so light, almost like floating away. It tingled and dizzied her. She needed to hold tighter or closer. The solution, of course, was to straddle Mina with her legs. She felt so much closer, wrapping her arms around her and holding with her legs too against Mina's thighs.

Mina seemed to like that decision because she made the tiniest whimper and held her tighter too. Chaeyoung was supposed to be using what she had learned during lessons and this position was not exactly learned while in a lesson. They had been eating ice cream and Mina had done it. Yet, it felt great. She felt Mina untucking her school blouse and suddenly she felt her cold and soft fingers tickling her back up and down.

"Mmh—wait," Chaeyoung stopped mid-kiss. "We then learned how to be soft, how— that was ne—needed."

"This is soft enough," Mina said calmly and brought Chaeyoung closer to rest her head against the crook of her neck while she kept caressing her back with her fingertips.

It was indeed suddenly so soft. Except for when Mina passed her fingertips across specific spots and Chaeyoung had no idea why it felt different there but her body reacted by moving upward, and she smiled against Mina's neck. "It tickles."

"Yeah?"

"Why— don't!" she laughed again as Mina took advantage of a new spot that produced the same reaction.

"You're really ticklish, it's cute."

Chaeyoung felt challenged. She felt so comfortable there resting her head and getting caressed, but she wanted to mess with Mina too. Could she do that? She had had many lessons to learn a way. She just had to think.

The answer was recalling the next two lessons she had had. Biting and neck kisses. Seemed easy and quite, quite enticing.

Chaeyoung pulled Mina's blouse collar and immediately started leaving kisses against Mina's neck without letting her know beforehand. Mina stopped her hands. Chaeyoung felt proud.

She remembered Mina had said it was not nice to leave a mark without a warning so she was not trying to do that. "We learned this," Chaeyoung said still leaving kisses. "Neck kisses, I'm not supposed to leave a mark."

"Yeah," Mina breathed out while nodding slightly, but Chaeyoung felt it was more of a subtle way to accommodate her neck and give her access.

"Do you know when you learn something in a subject that you can use for other subjects?"

That question made Mina laugh a bit. "Yeah, why?"

Chaeyoung was happy to show why.
She left one last kiss on Mina's neck before leaving a soft bite.

Mina breathed in sharply and pressed her hands stronger against Chaeyoung's back. "I see," Mina replied.

Chaeyoung liked the new grip Mina had on her. Her hands strongly pressed against her back felt heavenly. And every time she alternated from a kiss to a bite, Mina pressed her even closer.

Chaeyoung enjoyed quite a bit the smell of light soft scents. She had noticed she liked Mina's perfume before, but now it felt even better having the scent so close to her nose. Mina not only had good bone structure but she also smelled magnificently.

"You smell so good," Chaeyoung talked brushing Mina's neck with her lips. Unaware that this action produced vibrations that made Mina feel some kind of way.

"Mhh, is that so?" Mina chuckled slightly and her voice sounded different. It made Chaeyoung's stomach flip.

"Am I doing okay?"

"Can't you tell?"

Chaeyoung lifted her head and stared at Mina's face. Her cheeks acquired a soft pink hue. She looked at her eyes briefly. It made her embarrassed.

"Don't," Mina said lifting her chin. "Look at me."

"I really dislike eye contact." Chaeyoung stared everywhere but her eyes.

"Just this time," Mina whispered and stroked Chaeyoung's cheek once but softly.

Chaeyoung heard that and breathed out. Mina was in a position where a few favors from her had to be granted. So she tried her best and maintained eye contact. She has done it before, of course. She has even stared into Mina's eyes in a few lessons, but now it was hard.

Mina was beautiful and she felt more and more drawn to her as she stared. She broke the contact only to close her eyes and crash her lips against hers.

It was a messy kiss. Chaeyoung was not sure if she liked it or not; messy was not her style. But maybe she did because she found herself pushing Mina even further back on the bed and their hands became more touchy.

"Are you okay?" Mina asked. "Is it okay if I hold you like this?"

"Yes," Chaeyoung answered shakily. She loved the way Mina would grab onto her back.

They made out for quite a while, Chaeyoung did not have anything else to recall and they both seemed to have forgotten about that.

In the end, it was Mina who tried to stop everything when Chaeyoung attempted to open a button of her school blouse.

"No," Mina whispered pressing Chaeyoung's hand against her chest. "Cute dimples, that's..."

But Mina stopped because Chaeyoung lifted her head and made eye contact, which surprised Mina, especially in this situation. Chaeyoung was not sure why she was acting like this, but in a way, she knew, and she kept going.

"Why not?"

Apparently, Mina was not sure how to answer because she just stared back with her hand still pressing Chaeyoung's.

"What do you want?" Mina asked, probably wondering without meaning anything else than that, she knew Chaeyoung was probably trying to act on a thought or recalling something. After all, she had learned how to leave hickeys around that area, maybe she wanted that. Mina just needed to make sure.

Chaeyoung, though, was not really thinking about that, no. Chaeyoung was not thinking much, she just kept staring at Mina's eyes, trying to understand why her heart kept pounding so hard against her rib cage.

"I want you."

'I want you' Chaeyoung kept thinking, repeating her words in her head. Yes, that was what she wanted to say.

Maybe Mina was taken aback. Chaeyoung did not think about what could it mean to her. She just needed to say that. She wanted Mina, she wanted to kiss Mina and be held by her and hear her breathing.

"Me?" Mina said, her voice demonstrating disbelief. "Chaeyoung— Maybe—."

"I do," Chaeyoung insisted. Mina was about to speak again but Chaeyoung didn't want her to. Not about this, anyway. So she closed the space between them and started kissing her again.

It was different, Chaeyoung felt it, yet she pushed it aside. Now, she only wanted to focus on Mina. And Chaeyoung was quite good at focusing particularly on one thing. She just wanted to feel Mina.

The kiss was not, in theory, different from their other kisses, but Chaeyoung was way more into it. Mina's lips felt so warm and soft, she enjoyed it so much she had to say it.

"I love kissing you?"

"Is it a question?" Mina smiled really close to Chaeyoung's lips. Apparently, they now had no issue with talking in the middle of kissing, Chaeyoung actually enjoy the hot breath against her lips.

"I love kissing you."

"That's better."

"I want to kiss your neck again," Chaeyoung said playing with Mina's blouse collar.

"Why?"

"Your breathing changes."

"Mmh," Mina said moving her hands to help Chaeyoung with her wish. Things were now escalating really fast.

Chaeyoung attacked Mina's neck with kisses and bites the moment she got access to skin again. Mina immediately used a hand to keep Chaeyoung's head close to her and her breathing did indeed change.

Chaeyoung was not sure why she enjoyed it so much but she did. A lot. She could feel it in her heart thumping and her tummy twisting and her body temperature rising. And no, she didn't have a fever, she was sure.

Nothing else mattered, only Mina. Mina's skin and Mina's neck. Mina's scent, Mina's waist she got to feel by pulling and lifting her blouse and the way she kept reacting to every brush of her hand. Mina's everything.

And suddenly Mina's voice.

"Chaeyoung—"

But that didn't sound right.

"Chaeyoung."

No, that wasn't breathy or nothing like how Chaeyoung liked it to hear her name coming out of Mina's mouth.

"Chaeyoung!"

Everything changed so fast. Reality came followed by Mina pushing her back. Suddenly Chaeyoung reacted again. She blinked a few times and realized she was acting weird. "What?"

Chaeyoung had not realized Mina's worried face until the senior spoke again. "The door—" Mina seemed both breathless and worried. "Dahyun opened the door."

Forget having reacted. Now Chaeyoung did react.

Too much.

"It can't be," she said while getting up. "Da— Dahyun? No, I—"

Mina fixed her position on top of the bed and tried to reason with Chaeyoung. "Cute dim—"

Chaeyoung did not appreciate it. In fact, she turned around as she fixed her clothes a bit and ran through the door until she reached Dahyun's room where she found the girl about to put on some headphones.

"Hey—" Chaeyoung breathed out feeling tired, her pulse was too fast.

"Chaeng!" Dahyun seemed startled and left the headphones aside. "What are you doing here? Go back, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to bother you guys, I just didn't imagine that you—"

"Stop, stop, stop," Chaeyoung shook her head from side to side. This was not right.

"Chaeng, come on, what's wrong? I get it, I won't tell Mom."

"Wh— No, Dub, I—" Chaeyoung felt like crying, her whole world felt like falling to pieces and she never experiences feelings like these ones. She does everything in her power to avoid them. Still, she could fix this.

"Go back there, please, don't mind me," Dahyun ignored Chaeyoung's state. "I have headphones."

Regardless of Chaeyoung being utterly confused as to why that would be important right now, she tried to make Dahyun understand. "It's not true, it's a lesson!"

"What? Chaeyoung, come on, don't leave a girl waiting."

Breathe in, breathe out, breathe in, breathe in, breathe in. Chaeyoung was not managing to calm down. In fact, she was furious. She closed Dahyun's door and ran to her own room. Mina was still there, apparently reaching for her things to leave. 

"You need to go."

"I know," Mina said calmly as she tried to reach for Chaeyoung's arm. "Listen–"

Chaeyoung stumbled back immediately, Mina's touch seem almost gross right now. She couldn't see it any other way, not now. "Leave!" She scratched her head intensively, almost keeping her arm up as a shelter. 

"Cute dimp–"

"Do not call me that," Chaeyoung almost cried out. She had definitely not managed to get it together. "Won't you leave already? Leave. Lesson's over!" Chaeyoung felt angry, annoyed, upset, and tired but not necessarily in that order and not exactly sure at what or who. One thing was certain, Mina was getting the worst part and she could not stop it. Word vomit. "I don't need them, I don't want them! I hate this, I hate this and I hate you!" 

Chaeyoung could not see Mina. Not from her position of covering her head with her arm and looking away. She only could hear when Mina answered immediately. "You're being unfair." 

"Unfair? How? This is all your fault! You came into my life out of nowhere and suddenly, everything was about you! You and your stupid kissable lips and your stupid long soft hair that makes my stomach sick and–"

"You asked for lessons!" Mina had never spoken like that. Chaeyoung felt dizzy. "You asked for them! You said you wanted me, you talked and talked and never realized what you were saying! Sometimes you did not even talk, your actions speak, Chaeyoung!"

"Wh– wha– I– I don't..."

"You have no idea, do you?" Mina lowered her voice, which Chaeyoung appreciated, and dared to move her shaky arms out of her eyesight. Mina's eyes were red. 

"It's your fault," Chaeyoung whispered still shaking. 

Mina shook her head slowly as tears fell down her cheek. "The first thing I told you was that you can't really teach these things, why do you think I agreed to it all?" 

Chaeyoung felt a heavy weight taking all over her body. She was about to pass out for real, it had been a long time since she felt this kind of pressure.  "You–"

"You really are so selfish, Son Chaeyoung."

Mina turned around and walked away with hurried steps. Reality was becoming black, and the last thing Chaeyoung saw was blonde hair as Mina left through the door, then everything was blurry and the only thing she could hear was a high pitch-constant sound in her ear. 'why do you think I agreed to it all?'

Chapter Text

By the middle of her sophomore year, Mina fell in love.

It was like getting hit by lighting. She should have realized sooner, but she did not. And when she did, it was terrifying. Yet, beautiful.

She had met Im Nayeon in middle school and as some friendships do, they got along as if they had been friends since forever. Joined at the hip.

The two of them were inseparable, it was known by everyone. Mina felt happy, safe, and most importantly, accompanied.

Nayeon accepted her feelings and reciprocated them. It was a dream come true. Until it was not anymore.

Nayeon was not ready.

Mina understood that.

Nayeon acted like an asshole.

Mina could not understand that.

They say young love hurts. Mina could confirm. Her heart ached so much all the time. Before Nayeon, things were not good. Now, after Nayeon, things were even worse. The only difference, she had known love. Real love. Because she was sure, that regardless of how Nayeon had acted, reacted and kept on acting, Mina's love for her had been real. And probably, still was. According to Mina, you love someone once and you cannot simply unlove them. Love is a strong word that she had not taken for granted, even if Nayeon had.

Of all days, today Mina did not want to get home that early. Unfortunately, things did not last until six. And she did not feel like escaping somewhere else. She felt too tired for that.

"Ms. Myoui," A startled Mr. Jung said. "You didn't call, right? Certainly, I would have heard." He seemed to be about to get something from the spotless shiny black car parked near the big entrance.

"No worries, Mr. Jung," Mina said. "I walked on purpose."

"Be ware, you should call me, you know that's why I'm here."

"I know." Mina somehow felt bad at how much Mr. Jung was always worrying. But it's been a while since she has giving him reasons. She was okay, it was not a big deal. She appreciated it, though.

Mr. Jung walked Mina inside, still making conversation. "How was Ms. Son? Peculiar girl." He was aware of Mina's extracurriculars... as in boxing.

Mina was not going into detail, her heart felt tiny. "Lovely as always."

"Good, good," he mumbled and they got inside, where more of Mina's servants as Chaeyoung had called them were waiting.

Somehow everything resembled Chaeyoung. Mina sighed slightly and put on a smile. "Is it just dinner?"

"Just dinner, honey," A middle-aged woman that Mina cared for fondly answered right away. Her servants were the closest thing she got to a family, so no, she didn't like how Chaeyoung had referred to them.

Mina subconsciously reached for her necklace and answered, "Okay, I can do dinner."

In no time she passed from receiving kisses to getting yelled at to... this. It always amazed her how quickly she had learned to change emotions and keep everything to herself. Mina had learned to resist her reactions and suppress her real feelings. It was not that hard especially with a bit of alcohol, except in a few occasions, when you get drunk and decide to crash a party. The good thing? That night she ended up with Chaeyoung. 'maybe not good now'

So, yeah, she could do dinner. Just dinner. Today, she wouldn't have been able to handle much more.

She went to her room to change from her uniform and put on something slightly more fancy than just regular clothes. Not like she wanted to give this dinner much importance, but after all, it was.

After half an hour or more, she was called downstairs. Dinner was going to be served. The expansive space she entered featured high ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers that cast a warm, inviting glow over the room. The centerpiece was a massive rectangular table, polished to a glossy sheen, stretching elegantly down the center of the room. It was surrounded by luxurious, cushioned chairs, each seemingly designed for royalty. The room exuded an air of opulence and sophistication that Mina was so used to.

She sat by one of the ends of the shiny table, its other half waiting. Mina sighed and fixed a strand of hair behind her ear. She kept repeating in her head that it was not a big deal, just uncomfortable. A mere cordiality that she hated. Uncle was not the best person but he was family, so she had to see him once in a while.

He entered the room with his typical aura of superiority. Uncle was not terrible, he was just... bad. Bad character and bad intentions. Mina used to find him the scariest person ever, then she grew up. Once he took a seat, the food and drinks were served.

"How'd you been doing, girl?" He asked without even a proper greeting.

'lovely' Mina thought. "Fine."

"Better? Has anyone been bothering you at school?"

Well, he could be an asshole, for sure, but apparently, only he could be bothersome to Mina, no one else. When the whole issue with Nayeon burst out at school, Mina's tutor was called by the school so he knew all about it. He dismissed it as a rebellious act and pure teenage curiosity. Mina did not try to change his mind, only kept shut.

"No." That would be Mina's answer all the time even if someone has. She hates to be a burden, which is pretty much how he sees her. Just a burden.

Since Mina's father passed away, that is what Mina has become for her uncle, a burden. For all she knows, she has always been a burden at the sight of adults. The living proof is her mother, who couldn't deal with her husband's death and moved to the other side of the world to form a family with some other guy. Not once Mina felt loved by her. And who was left? Uncle. Of course, Mina knows he does not care for her, only what she means.

"Good," he said and started chewing on his meat. One of the kitchen helpers entered the room carrying the finest bottle and poured some of it into uncle's shiny glass.

"From the latest harvest, sir."

Uncle nodded his head and examined the glass in his hand. "You'll be nineteen soon."

"Yes," Mina remained with monosyllables. She knew, of course, that she was going to be legally considered an adult in no time and that was all he cared about.

"You do know what that means, right?"

"Yes." Signing of papers and acquiring a more active role in the company, which meant more signing of papers.

The vineyards have been the family business for more than 80 years now. Although their success was more international than national, the whole town knew the Myoui's and their rich history. 7,000 acres of scattered vineyards in the north ready for exportation.

All uncle cared about was getting Mina to sign stuff. Mina believes he is playing her for a fool, but she is not. And she won't just sign anything, of course not. She has been studying and learning about it her whole life, he is not going to take everything away from her.

Feeling some kind of lump in her throat, she moved a hand to her chest and fidgeted with her gold necklace out of habit. Her father meant everything to her. It was not an easy topic, yet, so simple. He had been the only one ever loving her. If Mina still believes in love and tries to see the good part in things, it's because of him. And if she has been studying and polishing her mind to know and be wise enough about the wine company, it's because of him.

Mina does not need the money. Regardless of the millions the vineyards represent, she has a bank account her father left for her. And regardless of her mother disappearing from her life, she also deposits regularly into that same bank account, as if money meant care. But Mina does not want uncle to get the vineyards and sell them to a random person. Or destroy in any way all the hard work and effort both her grandpa and her father had put into the business. Uncle did not care, he only cares about money, that's why he needs Mina to give up her part.

"I have been talking to a few buyers, it's easier that way, Mina."

"No," she immediately said. Not loudly or mad, just seriously.

Uncle only clenched his jaw and kept eating. Dinner after that went fast and quietly. Mina was grateful for that. She was tired and too sensitive.

Getting in bed that night was a relief. Although, that did not mean there was no tossing and turning. She could barely fall asleep after a big wave of overthinking and relieving certain scenarios.

The worst part was that she was still worried about Chaeyoung. She shouldn't care about it, not after the way she had been treated. But she did. The girl did not look fine and Mina in a way understood that she was confused.

'confused' Mina mentally scoffed. Of course the girl was confused, her mind was somehow wired to orbit around Dahyun. And Mina had appeared out of nowhere. 'well, she asked me to'

Yeah, Chaeyoung had asked her about the lessons, but it was Mina who approached her. It was Mina the one that kept trying to get closer without Chaeyoung even acknowledging it. Chaeyoung could be many things, one of them: clueless.

And it hurt.

It hurt even more because Mina knew this could happen. From day one. Not the night they agreed on their lessons, but day one.

You see, Mina did not just knew Chaeyoung because she was the number one junior or because she had a friend with the most beautiful silver hair. Or because she had seen her before at several award ceremonies. No.

It was a Tuesday. No one likes Tuesday because they are another kind of Monday. Mina was by her locker. Things with Nayeon had just fallen apart and rumors were spreading fast. Even faster than Nayeon's allegations, mean comments reached her ears. She was sick of it, yet, she couldn't do anything about it. Mina would usually stand up for herself but at that moment, she couldn't. Everything had caught her so unprepared and she realized she was not that strong.

Shin Jaeha. Mina couldn't care less about that guy. He was the school sweetheart, basically every girl cared about him, yet, Mina was disgusted by him and his dumb group of friends. His ugly comments were naturally the first ones to reach her ears. It was thanks to him, oddly enough, that she got to be intrigued by Chaeyoung for the first time.

"I'm telling you, dude!"

"It's not true, that's disgusting."

"Well everyone is talking about it."

Jaeha listened to the comment and laid his back against the lockers. "I hate it, it's so emasculative to have people saying I lost a girl to another girl."

Hearing the loud conversation happening across the hallway, Mina couldn't feel more enraged. But she stayed put. It was as she was trying to breathe calmly, that she heard it.

This quiet yet constant voice. "Emasculative, emasculative...." Her face turned to the sound, that's when she saw her. The tiny junior repeating the word as if tasting it in her mouth. Suddenly her volume changed, "Emasculative." She approached the group of friends with quick steps and stood in front of Jaeha, not really bothering to stare at him. "That's not even a word, punk," she accused him loudly. "And you can't really lose something you don't own."

It was quick, simple and direct. After that, she kept walking. Mina followed her with her eyes. She had not expected anyone to say anything to them, ever. That was more than enough for Mina to get interested in Chaeyoung.

That was day one, she could tell now. She had been hurting. But she got a distraction. Suddenly Chaeyoung appeared more in the hallways. Soon enough she realized her lockers were not that far. Mina wanted to talk to her, but she did not have a reason. So, she just let it be. Until the dance, where she saw the girl all nervous and mumbling to herself, plus Mina had drank a bit to endure the whole activity. Truly not her best habit.

A beacon. Without even realizing it, Chaeyoung had been a tiny light in Mina's most dark days that had kept her grounded. It was a good distraction, almost like a game. Chaeyoung was special.

It was almost not fair, Mina felt a bit stupid about feeling sad. She knew it was not a good idea. Plus, what was she expecting?

She had accused Chaeyoung of being selfish and clueless, yet, how was she expecting for the girl to realize something she was not even sure about. Maybe she was being silly. Maybe it was a mere whim.

But Chaeyoung was special.

Since they started lessons, Chaeyoung is all Mina thinks about. Her odd funny comments, or the way she laughs at her words sometimes, how she explains herself and, of course, her careful clumsy way of kissing that makes her heart race. In one way or another, the junior pops out in her mind from thought to thought. Even when she was being stupid enough and ended up drunk at Jaeha's party.

Boy had that been a bad decision. She was not supposed to be there to start with, but she had got hold of some alcohol, it's easy for her, and felt the need to upfront Nayeon. Yeah, that did not work. Everyone at that place adores Nayeon, who just ignored her and accused her again of a thousand things in front of everyone. Of course, she left. No one could handle such nasty comments.

It is not like she wanted Nayeon back. She just wanted for her to admit everything. Apparently, it was not going to happen. No one really cared about it anyway. 'except Chaeyoung'

Mina smiled for a brief second. It warmed her heart whenever Chaeyoung brought out the revenge topic. It's not like she wanted revenge, but Chaeyoung seemed to care. From day one, you see? Chaeyoung is special in that way. The girl even made the effort and found Nayeon's weakness.

This time Mina smiled bitterly.

Jeongyeon. That, she had not expected.

Not the part about her classmate also liking girls, because yes, Mina had indeed felt that. She just did not put thought into it. Mina was not a big fan of the girl. She is sort of what Mina likes to call a silent bully. She has enjoyed ever since they were kids to pick on everyone but only when no one is watching. Now, if Mina remembers correctly, the girl also enjoyed bothering Nayeon and no one really bothered her.

'what a kid' Mina thought. She felt mad. She had been feeling mad about the situation Chaeyoung told her. She had tried to ignore it but to no avail. How could Jeongyeon dare to do such thing? Don't misunderstand, Mina is not jealous, just worried.

Well, okay, maybe a tiny bit jealous. But that's it. The main issue here was the silent bully. They have similarities, though. Jeongyeon and Nayeon. They both always get what they want, they're both bossy, organized, straight-A students. Only one enjoys pushing people down and Nayeon values everyone's self-worth.

Mina liked that about her. She could be quite the narcissist sometimes, but she sort of encouraged everyone else to be one too. Maybe that's one of the reasons that Chaeyoung likes her. It makes sense. Chaeyoung needs that kind of people around her.

Now, what could she do about it? Nothing. First, it was not her problem. Second, Nayeon can stand up for herself. Third, she has to put herself first. And right now, she needs to be there for herself. Even if it is hard.

Mina only found sleep after shedding a few tears. In her mind, all the words Chaeyoung had said. Besides, she was not sure what Chaeyoung's friends would think of her, would Chaeyoung clarify things? She couldn't go through false accusations again and it terrified her. Nothing was fair.  A part of her wanted to find Chaeyoung and talk to her about feelings, another just wanted to get a bottle of any strong drink and forget about it all. Her heart could not take another disappointment and Chaeyoung was special, yet a lot. 'I want you' her mind kept echoing. 'I do'

***

Mina didn't dislike her morning routines. She had her alarm set, but just in case always one of the helpers came and knocked three times on her door. She would get up, freshen up, put on her uniform, and go downstairs where breakfast would be waiting. She was not alone, even if sometimes it could get a bit lonely.

Mina lived on a big piece of land. Her great-great-great-grandpa had bought it cheap in a gambling situation. As the years went by, her family lost most of the land to the state and other houses were built around it, yet they owned quite a bit still and the big mansion built in it stood out from everything else. There was even permanent staff for the place, they had their own space more into the terrain. They were no more than 8 people, including Mr. Jung. Mina cared for all of them fondly, and all of them cared for Mina regardless of the money involved. She would greet everyone and then she'd be off to school in her usual ride.

The Myoui's have been easily the wealthiest family in town for years now. It amazed Mina how Chaeyoung did not seem to care about any of that. Even her mother had immediately recognized her as a Myoui yet Chaeyoung couldn't be more focused on the lessons or any other thing. Even if the junior expressed her reaction to the big house, it was not at all like other people make it seem. It was not uncomfortable, Mina appreciated that.

Uncle would often say that people are just full of envy and that most of the issues with her fellow seniors is due to that. Mina found that funny because he was also an envious person. However, he was not wrong. Mina had heard comments regarding her economic situation as well as the Nayeon thing. In a way, she hated those comments because most of all her classmates and people at school came from wealthy families and big houses, yet it came to a matter of who was the wealthiest.

"Have a good day, darling." And she was off to school as always. Mr. Jung would usually put on the news and sometimes music. Mina liked it. See? She is not really alone as it may seem.

Mina didn't dislike school. She didn't love it either. It was fairly easy and she never really studied. The problem with school was its people. Especially people her age.

The only extra time she spent at school was when she helped with the decorations for plays or most school events. She was really close with the art teacher and she didn't mind helping with all that. Mina is not really into arts or anything like that but she is quite crafty. She enjoys building things and decorating for the plays and in general, at home she loves to build Legos and knit. And surprisingly, people from the decoration team were not mean to her. Not even Park Jihyo, who was fairly mean to everyone. Maybe not mean, just... way too honest. 'Chaeyoung would appreciate that' Mina thought in a second, feeling stupid. She needed to stop doing that.

It's been a few weeks. Yeah, weeks since Chaeyoung's outburst, and not a word has she pronounced to Mina. Not even an apology text, nothing. And she should apologize, right? Mina didn't care. Or that she kept saying to herself.

The problem is that not a word had been pronounced but Chaeyoung had not disappeared either. She was around. Constantly around. It was getting annoying. Annoying how much Mina felt like reaching out and forgiving her without an apology. She was getting weak and all it was taking was the junior walking awkwardly a few meters away and stopping when she stopped. Mina wondered if anyone else noticed this odd behavior.

Regardless, she was not going to bend. She had done nothing wrong. Chaeyoung would do this at least once a day at different times, Mina had not found a pattern. Yet. There must be one. There's always a pattern.

"It needs more of that black paint," Miss Moon was supervising today's work only because the play they were working on was that week.

Mina had been working the last few days on a big cardboard cat. "I'll check at the back, I had been meaning to add some more, be right back," Mina said. She left the brush she was using and grabbed a piece of fabric to clean her hands as she hurried to the back of the stage, they kept materials in a tiny room.

However, her mission was interrupted by someone who approached her out of nowhere, right when she entered the room. Mina, although surprised at first that someone had entered the room in a rush, recognized the intruder quite easily.

"I'm sorry," the silver-headed girl breathed out. "I've been looking for you everywhere and now— I saw you from the—yeah," she finished talking regaining her breath, apparently, she had ran.

Mina frowned slightly, she was... nervous. No. More like taken aback. She was not expecting anyone to approach her, especially no one like Kim Dahyun.

"Hey," she answered giving a tiny smile. But there was no answer back. Dahyun was just staring seemingly lost in her thoughts. "Yes?" she insisted wondering if the girl actually wanted to say something.

"Right," Dahyun shook her head. "Can we talk for a minute?"

Not really, she was busy. But she was so intrigued. "Sure, just a minute."

"I'm just gonna say it," Dahyun seemed unsure about this whole interaction. For just a second Mina wondered if she was worried about anyone seeing the girl talking to her, it wouldn't be the first time someone dislikes the idea of being seen talking to someone like her. "She misses you."

Mina scoffed and looked away. 'sure' she thought. But what about it? "Okay," she said. What else could she say?

"I know what you're thinking," Dahyun said. Mina doubted it. How could she? Was she perfect or something? 'That hair and those features...' Mina felt... jealous? No, not really, right? Why would she? She was about to say that there was no way she could know when Dahyun kept talking, "You want an apology."

And Mina had to bite her lip. The girl was right and it bothered Mina on a whole other level. Don't misunderstand, she doesn't have anything against Kim Dahyun. Is just that not so deep down, she wants Chaeyoung's attention as she has. "I deserve one."

"Well, you're not getting one."

"And why not?"

"Because she doesn't know what she did wrong."

Mina couldn't believe what she was listening. "That's not a reason at all."

Dahyun sighed. "I'm sure you've realized she is different."

'different?' Mina was feeling really uncomfortable now, what does that even mean? She couldn't have said that.  "You baby her too much. She can do things on her own, you know?"

"Of course I know, I just care."

"Okay," Mina sighed. She didn't want to argue, plus, she was busy. "If that's all—"

"Just— Mina, look, maybe you guys could talk at Smoothie Sunday, you know we hang out there."

Mina felt impressed that Dahyun was even inviting her to their place just for her and Chaeyoung to fix things. But, honestly, there was nothing to fix, how could Chaeyoung possibly apologize, even if she did, Mina was not so sure about accepting that apology.

"It will be awkward."

"I know," Dahyun smiled. "It will indeed be terrible for her but she needs it."

"Well," Mina thought about it. "It might work if she stops with this walking around me once a day without saying anything, it's frustrating. I thought there was a pattern to try and avoid it, but I can't find anything. There must be one, right?"

"Of course there is one. There's always a pattern." Yeah, that is what Mina had thought. "She does it after every English period, not sure why."

"Oh," well, there was one, "so, I don't know, I don't know if I can go."

"Fine, just, think about it. It's upsetting." Dahyun seemed like she could keep talking about it but Mina was actually really busy, so she just gave a quick smile and walked past her. She had a giant black cat to finish.

That was not the best conversation experience. It was quite awkward and Mina disliked Dahyun's behavior, unlike the last time they had talked when she had found the girl to be super nice. Deep down, Mina was glad Dahyun approached her like this because it meant she had not thought badly of her the other day.

Was she jealous or was Dahyun actually having an attitude. 'what's with that she is different comment' Mina couldn't keep that out of her mind. Chaeyoung was indeed different but there was something about the way Dahyun had said it that annoyed Mina. Besides, someone needs to hold Chaeyoung responsible for her actions.

'That's right' Mina thought, someone does. That settled it. She was going to the diner on Sunday. Mina couldn't care less about the awkward part. They will make it awkward, she is not embarrassed of herself and she got an invitation, so, she just needed to set things straight with Chaeyoung and stop this madness. 

***

Sunday came way faster than Mina would have liked, but it was better to get this over with. She was not going to admit it but a part of her wanted to be on good terms with Chaeyoung and just spend time together again, whatever form that is. The problem was she was not going to bend without a form of apology or acknowledgment from Chaeyoung.

Hopefully, today was the day. She got to the diner Chaeyoung and her friends frequent. It was just a regular diner just like the other diners in town, Mina wondered why they liked it so much to even make it part of their routine.

When she got inside and scanned the place searching for familiar faces, she recognized two of Chaeyoung's friends. Momo and Tzuyu. And to her surprise, the diner seemed quite full, she recognized people from school as well.

Mina sighed. She wanted to be the first one there. When Dahyun had texted her the details she decided to get there early but it didn't work. Nevertheless, she wondered what could happen if she just approached them. She knew Momo disliked her just like the other seniors but what about this context? In a way, Mina wanted to get along with Chaeyoung's friends, but she also wanted to make sure everyone knew she couldn't care less about what other people thought of her.

There was no time to debate, honestly. Mina acted on impulse most of the time. She walked to the booth and gave a quick greeting before she could back down. It was done.

"Hello," she simply said and hoped for things to develop nicely.

The girls seemed to have different reactions. Tzuyu looked up and gave a tiny smile as she said hello as well. Momo, on the other hand, looked up, frowned, and looked back at Tzuyu.

"What are you doing?" she whispered loudly across the table.

"Saying hi," Tzuyu talked normally. "You can sit next to me, it's fine." Tzuyu patted next to her and scooted aside.

"Okay, I know you got your brain frozen from all that lemon slushy you've been drinking, there's no way she is sitting with us."

'well' Mina thought as she sat down. 'of to a great start' she could use this opportunity to understand what Momo had heard to make her this averse to her.

"Momo," Tzuyu sighed. "We didn't want to tell you because you would refuse, but we invited Mina to smoothie day."

"And why the hell would we do that?"

"Oh, you're so dense!" Tzuyu seemed red with frustration. Must be tiring to explain things to your senior. Mina could bet she did it all the time. "Haven't you seen Chaeyoung? She is barely herself—"

"That must be good not being herself for once," Momo interrupted.

"Oh, please! You know what I mean. We have to fix it."

"Why on earth would I help to get her back to the way it was? If anything she is more likable now, quiet and less annoying."

Mina analyzed the interaction in silence. Somehow, she knew Momo was just being a pain in the ass on purpose. Maybe she liked getting on Tzuyu's nerves, or everyone's. But her attitude towards Chaeyoung didn't bother her like Dahyun's had.

"Whatever, you don't have to help, just keep quiet, actually." Tzuyu had enough. She kept drinking her slushy. Momo decided to stare directly at Mina with a frown and Mina decided it was best to stare back. With a smile.

It felt like forever. Mina was getting tired and she even felt like leaving. But she had to give this a chance. She needed any kind of resolution. Or closure. Then, Momo talked.

"What's your deal anyway?"

Mina kept smiling while analyzing the question. This had to be entertaining. "My deal?"

"Not just you. You and Chaeyoung," Momo slightly frowned. "What are you?"

"I told you to keep quiet," Tzuyu almost begged.

That's actually a good question. Mina herself would like to know that. It's complicated she guessed, but that was not a good answer. "We are... not friends," she remembered one of their last encounters.

Momo was not convinced. Mina didn't blame her, that was also a silly answer.

"How on earth did you start talking, then? Sorry, I just don't understand."

"What's so hard about it?" Now, Mina seemed more stressed. She knew she needed to keep her cool, she knew coming here meant all of this but she had not thought about the whole Momo being a senior, therefore, naturally having it against her. "She asked for the lessons, you know? It's not that deep."

Tzuyu turned to look at Mina intrigued. "She asked to teach you?"

"What?" 'what?'

"Tzuyu is just jealous," Momo mocked.

'jealous?!' Mina immediately frowned at Tzuyu. What was this? A love triangle she was not aware of? Was Chaeyoung that of a catch? Had she really laid her eyes on the one nerd girl with the most charm?

"I asked her all the time to teach me how to box! It's really unfair, you can't deny that."

Mina released a huge breath out. Boxing. Right. 'wait... then...?' "Boxing? That's what she said?"

It's not like Mina had imagined Chaeyoung would explain everything to their friends but she figured the truth was out. Was it not? What was the problem? Something was starting to make her really uncomfortable. She wanted to talk to Chaeyoung in private.

"Were you not receiving lessons on how to box?" Momo raised her eyebrows and sat closer to the table, visibly intrigued.

Mina could not believe Chaeyoung had not said anything. Or maybe she was not that close with her friends. She decided to keep quiet and let Chaeyoung explain. If she arrived.

"Yeah, right, I was. I asked."

"O— okay," Tzuyu tilted her head, "sure."

Thankfully, the girls arrived and put an end to that weird situation to get into an even more awkward one, of course. Mina knew this, she had prepared for different outcomes. You never know with Chaeyoung.

When Mina saw them, she almost lost all her cool. She had no idea why but Chaeyoung looked particularly beautiful. She has always thought that the girl is good looking, really good. With her black hair and strong physique that is usually hidden, yet Mina finds charming. She is just naturally good looking.

But as they got to the table and she could see the shift in the expression on her face, especially when she talked, Chaeyoung did not look as charming anymore.

"Oh, darn it," she said. "No way." She tried to walk back to the exit but Dahyun held her shoulders and sat her down. In a second the junior got trapped between Momo and Dahyun.

Chaeyoung got visibly upset and started tapping the table as she complained, "This is why you didn't let me use a hoodie, isn't it?"

"Yes. We can't have cacoon Chaeyoung for this, okay?"

Mina was not sure what Dahyun was expecting of this encounter or if she had anything prepared. Mina was not even sure what she expected. But one thing was sure, she hated the way Dahyun kept babying Chaeyoung.

"Hello to you too," Tzuyu said.

"Let's order something to eat, I can't stand this on an empty stomach." Momo raised her hand and one young waiter took their order. Mina just asked for one vanilla smoothie. Vanilla is never her go to, but since Chaeyoung and her got ice cream, she started asking for it as well.

She was giving this thing a chance. It couldn't be that terrible as awkward as it was being, right?

"Okay, so, thank you all for coming," Dahyun said cheerfully. "You might wonder why we are all here—"

"Because we are always here on Sundays," Momo interrupted.

"Yes, okay," Dahyun acknowledged. "But today is different, we have a new guest. Mina," she said using her hands to present her, "thank you for coming."

"Thank you for inviting me." Mina wanted to leave, honestly. This seemed too ceremonial.

In that moment, Chaeyoung stopped tapping the table and reached for something by her feet. She had a bag, apparently. No one but Mina was intrigued by this. She pulled out a book that seemed to have various neat annotations. She opened it and started tapping the table again.

"She does this regularly now," Tzuyu explained. Mina was thankful she had noticed her confusion. "It's the book we are reading for class, it's really not that interesting."

At that, Chaeyoung scoffed a laugh without raising her head from the book. Mina worried. She had never seen Chaeyoung being so... robotic like this. She always noticed stuff, of course. Like her issues with social interactions, or her evident need to have everything organized, or even her lack of understanding sarcasm but not this. Maybe the girls noticed her worried face because they tried to reassure her. Sort of.

"It's fine. Sometimes she fixes her attention on something for quite a while. But it's fine," Tzuyu nodded.

"Yeah, she is fine, right, Chengie?" Momo poked her shoulder and Chaeyoung gave her a quick glance with a frown.

"It's not, though," Dahyun said. Mina wondered if Chaeyoung minded how they were just talking about her like this, but the girl seemed focused on her lecture. "It's been a while since she had done this. And we have to fix it, clearly, something is bothering her and we all know what."

That's when everyone, but Chaeyoung, looked at Mina, who was not sure what to say, she found this whole situation ridiculous. "Look," she started. "I came here 'cause she owes me an apology."

"She doesn't."

"What?" Mina had to bite her lip at Dahyun's words. How in the world did she not deserve an apology?

"She—"

"Oh, I'm sorry," Mina interrupted. "Could I please talk to her and not just you talking for her?"

"She doesn't like it when—"

"Chaeyoung," Mina said loud and clear before Dahyun could keep inventing excuses. Chaeyoung stopped tapping the table. "Chaeyoung," Mina insisted. "Could you just talk to me for a minute?"

"She won't—"

"Oh, for god's sake, what's your problem?" Mina knew she was being rude but wouldn't this girl shut up? "Stop babying her." Mina, despite her agitated state, caught Momo nodding at her words. Mina knew she had to calm down, so she sighed and apologized. "Sorry, but I'm sure she can speak for herself."

Dahyun sighed. "Maybe this was a mistake, I just wanted to—"

"I can speak," Chaeyoung suddenly said as if nothing.  She cleared her throat and raised her head. Not meeting anyone's eye, though. "I can speak to her."

"See?"  Mina said. She loved winning an argument.

"Chaeng, are you sure?"

"You just never asked," Chaeyoung said as it was the most obvious thing.

"Let's... let's give them some privacy," Dahyun said getting up and signaling with her hand to Momo and Tzuyu to do the same. She looked tired.

"Man, my food has not even arrived, this was unnecessary," Momo complained but got up anyway, not bothering to wait for Chaeyoung to get up, she passed standing on the seat and walking behind Chaeyoung's back, obviously annoying the girl on purpose. Mina stood up and gave access to Tzuyu.

Finally, they were left alone at the table.

"So," Mina said feeling better now. "I'm listening."

Chaeyoung kept her gaze down. Mina started to get a bit nervous. Memories of their last encounter started to come to mind. The way Chaeyoung had looked directly into her eyes like it was for her only. All the words she had said and the many sensations no one had ever make her feel before. A mix of fear and excitement. Maybe she didn't have in her to listen to any of this. She was considering leaving before she could get any more hurt.

"I can do things on my own, you know?" Chaeyoung said closing her book and tapping that instead of the table.

Mina sighed. Of course she knew. "Why didn't you talk to me?"

"You were mad."

"You don't know that." She was.

"I tried to," Chaeyoung scratched the back of her head.

"Following me around without saying anything doesn't count."

"It had been a while..." Chaeyoung seemed to struggle to say this, "since I had that of a bad reaction to something. I— I shouldn't have said all those things."

"Which ones?" Mina asked without thinking. She just couldn't help but wonder if Chaeyoung meant the wanting her part or the outburst part. She probably meant both.

But Chaeyoung didn't answer, just kept talking. "I wanted to thank you for the time you took to teach me—"

"What? Chaeyoung that is not important now." Mina wondered if Chaeyoung felt anything at all. They had not talked for a while now, Mina couldn't read her mind and Chaeyoung was not expressing much. Mina had lamely hoped for Chaeyoung to realize one or two things but, apparently, she remained clueless.

"But I mean it. You took the time and—"

"No, no, cute— Chaeyoung," Mina stopped herself. "Is there nothing else that you thought about? Anything, don't you remember?" It hurt.

Chaeyoung stopped tapping her book and passed her thumb through the pages, still staring at the table. Mina wondered if she was feeling just nervous or embarrassed or why couldn't she just look at her for the tiniest second.

"I really wanted to thank you for the le—"

"Oh, please," Mina was desperate. This is not what she had expected. She needed Chaeyoung to snap out of it. She had lost her patience. "I gave you kissing lessons, yes, but that's not the point of any of it, didn't you— didn't you feel—" Yeah, Mina was not that brave either. "The kissing lessons were just—"

"Kissing lessons?"

That made Chaeyoung lift her head and Mina to stop talking. Chaeyoung's friends were walking back to the table.

"W—what happened to some privacy?" Mina asked, trying to recompose herself. They couldn't see her hurting.

"Kissing lessons?" Dahyun asked again.

The young waiter came with their order and Mina realized that's why they came back, maybe. But now, they seemed mad.

"Well—"

"So the rumors are true," Momo said before anyone could talk. Her voice was unnecessarily loud. "I told you guys, she is disgusting. You said you asked for the lessons!?"

'No, no, no' Mina felt like throwing up, this was a whole misunderstanding, this couldn't be happening again.

"W— were you forcing Chaeyoung to do this?" Dahyun asked really worried. "When I saw you two, oh god—"

"She did the same to Nayeon, I wouldn't be surprised," Momo kept talking and talking and Mina couldn't for the life of her deny anything. It was all too familiar and she couldn't believe it was happening.

"G— guys, no, no—" Chaeyoung tried to say, but Mina was not sure of anything that was happening now.

Voices turned to gibberish. She saw Chaeyoung standing up and talking just more and more gibberish. This couldn't be happening again.

That's when she realized gibberish was louder than necessary and caught glances of other people from school present in the diner. After all, they were not the only ones who frequented the place.

"Dahyun, that's not—" she tried to say as she got up. "That's not the truth."

But she was met with more accusations, and phrases she couldn't process. Momo shouting about all the rumors between her and Nayeon didn't help either. All Mina managed to do was reach for her wallet, leave a few bills on the table, and walk to the exit as fast as she could still surrounded by unfair accusations and the memory of all the terrible events from her past.

She walked and walked until she reached an alley and tried to catch her breath. She moved a hand to reach her gold necklace as tears streamed down her face. It was not long before she dried her tears and let go of her necklace. Her breathing was still agitated. But she decided she had already cried too much for all of this.

Not just now but in the past as well.

Mina cursed this whole town.

"Mr. Jung," she said once the chauffeur picked up her call. "Do not wait for me today, I'll get back on my own." And she ended the call.

She knows he gets worried, she knows he might be worried right now. But Mina acted on impulse and she truly needed this, or that's what she kept repeating in her head.

She walked through streets all too familiar, ready to numb these emotions. It was getting dark and that only made it all better. That night Mina drowned every word said to her in bottles of alcohol. She had not drunk like this since Jaeha's party.

Truly not her best habit.

She knows she is not supposed to drink.

And she knows she always regrets it.

But, alas, there's always a pattern, isn't it?

Chapter Text

One thing you need to know to understand Im Nayeon is that she is all pretend.

The way she so easily manages the student council? Pretend.

How important her studies and marks are? Pretend.

The love she has for her boyfriend? Pretend.

Nayeon does not care for any of it. Or maybe she does. Way too much. She cares about what others think of her. She cares about how she is perceived. Therefore, she is all pretend. She needs to be perfect and she is good at pretending to be exactly that.

It is rough and messy. Sometimes way too dry and sometimes unnecessarily wet. The hands groped her thighs and she just let it, after all, it did not feel that bad. It was easily bearable. This time the kiss was dry. Jaeha's lips need some lip balm and Nayeon, unfortunately, was not wearing anything to smooth the kiss. It was a short one, though. They were sitting at the school cafeteria with his groups of friends, so it was mainly a kiss to show off. Although his hands didn't leave her thigh, a territorial move. Nayeon understood that, it came with the pretending. She is a great girlfriend, no one can't deny that.

She was not really listening to the conversation, something about a game, they didn't want her to participate either way, so. She looked away from the table for a few seconds, almost recovering her strength. Then, she got a text.

From SC Yoo Jeongyeon
You could at least pretend you like it.

Nayeon scoffed. She raised her head from the device and found the source of the text several tables away. Jeongyeon raised her brows and shook her head showing disapproval in her acting. Nayeon felt insulted, she was great at this.

From SC Yoo Jeongyeon
You even rolled your eyes.

'did I? must be tired that's all' Nayeon didn't find this amusing. She turned her gaze back to the table and the conversation. Jeongyeon was just annoying.

Jaeha moved his arm and surrounded Nayeon by the shoulders. 'great' she thought. She scooted closer just to improve her acting, after all, she had just got called out. In a second she got another text, she could just look at them because she knew her boyfriend never really paid attention.

From SC Yoo Jeongyeon
Anyway, locker room in 5.

Ah, Nayeon read and deleted the message immediately. But she gave Jeongyeon one final glance across the cafeteria and it was enough to portray a positive answer.

Exactly having passed five minutes, she got closer to Jaeha's ear and whispered, "I have to go now, babe, I'll see you later." She placed one kiss on his cheek and stood up. "See you around guys," she said giving her best charming bunny smile.

"Love you, babe," Jaeha answered and all the guys waved and said goodbye.

It was not odd. Nayeon was, after all, always quite busy. Jaeha knew and accepted that. He gave her a warm smile and turned back to his friends.

He is great. Nayeon likes him, yes. He is good-looking. Quite buff. Nice dark hair. Perfect smile. Popular and caring. In his own way of caring, that is. Like giving Nayeon flowers and chocolates for their dates or you know, those dates being them hanging out with Jaeha's friends while they play video games. It is fine, really. Nayeon has fun with them... sometimes. They all like her at least, and she likes that. They are dumb enough for her to manipulate their weak minds.

Right now, though. She couldn't say she liked this. That's the thing, she doesn't. How could she? No. This is wrong. This is not the right way of pretending. She hates it. Yet, she accepts every time. As dangerous as it is.

She is just... tired, you know? Nayeon needs a break sometimes. And Yoo Jeongyeon is just perfect for it. Why? You may ask.

Easy. Because she hates the girl. Yoo Jeongyeon is despicable. She doesn't care for anything or anyone but herself. She treats everyone poorly, not teachers that is. Adults do not seem to see how awful she is.

So it's easy. It is so easy how she got to the locker room, closed the door and walked steadily around one of the concrete walls decorated with blue tiles to find the girl sitting on one wooden bench, lockers behind her. Jeongyeon had her legs crossed, she uncrossed them as soon as she saw Nayeon who took this as an invitation.

It's so easy how she approached her and without further struggle sat on the vice president's lap straddling her legs. Her hands surrounded her neck for support. She moved her head to the side, letting her hair fall all to one side so it did not get in the way, and leaned down to capture Jeongyeon's lips. The girl steadied her holding her hips.

Kissing Yoo Jeongyeon is simply... uncomplicated.

Their lips followed each other's movements delicately but increased in speed rapidly. Jeongyeon always kisses her with a certain hunger and hurry. Nayeon likes it. To a point she left a quiet hmm sound between Jeongyeon's lips.

"That's more like it." Jeongyeon mocked her remembering their previous conversation through texts.

"Shut up," Nayeon said. No need to remember that now. Jeongyeon didn't pressure further and so they kissed again. This time, Nayeon liked it even better.

Jeongyeon moved her hands up to her waist and brought her closer, caressing her sides up and down strongly. Nayeon likes to feel wanted. A lot. The way Jeongyeon left her mouth to go to her jaw and neck pressing small kisses, left her breathless. Her school tie suddenly felt like an obstacle so she pulled from it quickly releasing her shirt collar for Jeongyeon to move further down and leave more kisses.

Nayeon had no thoughts, just the alleviating feeling of pleasure and short-lived happiness. Kiss by kiss, this was liberating.

"So, ice? Are you really going that basic?" Suddenly Jeongyeon stopped leaving kisses and questioned.

Nayeon sighed. "It's not basic, and it's not just ice, it's frozen fairytale."

"So, no penguins, but a lot of glitter?"

"Let's not discuss that here." This was definitely not Nayeon's mood at the moment. "We have meetings for that."

"Yeah, but," Jeongyeon frowned, "you don't really listen to me in those."

"Oh, come on," Nayeon dismissed it. "You know I call the shots, now kiss me."

Jeongyeon rolled her eyes but complied anyway. It was great. All Nayeon needed to keep pretending every aspect of her life is just perfect, was to recharge by making out with a pretty girl once in a while (lately more than that, but who's counting). It definitely adds meaning to life.

Their make out sessions do not last longer than 20 minutes. Time, after all, is crucial for busy people like Nayeon. And she can only keep the locker room closed for a while before anyone notices it is odd.

"Alright," she said standing up from Jeongyeon's lap. "I need to go now." She skillfully fixed her tie and collar. And then she put her hair into a ponytail. Time to look serious.

Jeongyeon crossed her legs again and leaned forward. "Wait, Nayeon." Nayeon raised her brows as a response. "Should we go somewhere else next time?"

'oh' Nayeon was impressed and somewhat flattered but she was not going to express any of those. "Why should we?" She couldn't tell if Jeongyeon wanted a private place to maybe upgrade their make out sessions to something else or if she actually wanted to hang out.

"You know, to have... fun." 'so the first one'

"That's okay," Nayeon answered losing interest. "You know I don't really have time. Let's not change things. It was good today, you're welcome," she said before kissing her hand and waving goodbye offering a flying kiss and a wink. "Let's do it again sometime."

And she left. It was quite like a business after all. Merely a necessity. She didn't need the girl for anything else, much less hanging out. Nayeon was not even afraid of Jeongyeon saying anything because there was no way she wanted people finding out about them, or her sexual preferences. So, again, these make out sessions with her vice president were just so easy and rewarding. The perfect agreement.

She was not even sure how they agreed on everything, but it was perfect. Yeah, Jeongyeon used to be way more annoying and sometimes she even thought that the girl only wanted to take her role as president. 'turns out she just wanted a piece of this' Nayeon chuckled. She enjoyed her post-make-out session happiness. It was brief but intense.

Once she got to class when lunchtime was over, she had to face reality again. And back to pretending. It was... hard sometimes. Scratch that, it's hard every time the rush of the moment stops and her happy hormones stop acting out and she feels numb again. It's the worst part. Then, she gets used to it again, but it makes you wonder: why keep doing it? Like a never-ending cycle.

And Nayeon hates herself for it. You won't catch her admitting it, tho. But she hates it. She hates how much she enjoys it, soft lips pressed against her own and oh, the scent. There are a few scents Nayeon finds nicer than a girl's perfume. Definitely not her boyfriend's cologne.

Why can't she just enjoy Jaeha's kisses the same? It's frustrating. How can she not be normal? It's on these occasions where her thoughts get the best of her. But she won't let those win. With the right distraction, everything will be okay.

Unfortunately, today was becoming to be a pretty boring and not really occupied day. She felt gloomy for the rest of the afternoon and refused to hang out with Jaeha's friends through some lame excuse about prom.

At home, she couldn't stop pretending as you may think, but in her bedroom, she could relax a bit. Her parents were quite strict. Her mother, a respected lawyer, and her father, working his way as a politician currently a legislator. Therefore, they cared a lot about appearances.

Everything in their life has to be just perfect. Their giant Mediterranean house, their jobs, their family, their pets even. Kookeu, their Pomeranian for sure has to endure various grooming salon appointments. You see? Nayeon has to be good, an example. A reflection of their parents and there is no other way around it.

Today ended up with some mindless scrolling through social media after dinner and washing up. She did her skincare routine and even put on some music to make the evening more pleasant. She finally got in bed around 11 pm with a silly bothersome feeling from this afternoon still threatening her sanity and perfect world.

Her internal battle had been so exhausting today, that it shouldn't have been a surprise when her phone rang at 4 am and startled her dreamless sleep. Honestly, her feelings should have been a premonition. Of course, Mina was going to appear today out of all days. Like a cherry on top for the strangest day feelings-wise.

Nayeon rolled in bed, took the phone, and ended the call. What else was she going to do? 'you know she might need your help' Nayeon's conscience knew better but... no. There was no way.

The phone started vibrating again. Nayeon bit her lip and sat in bed. 'is this girl for real?'

She stared at the screen for a while, she didn't even have the contact saved, she had just memorized the numbers without intending to. The call ended and started again.

Nayeon accepted the call, what was the worst that could happen? She didn't say anything just waited.

Strange noises could be heard, like the rustling of something. "...won't you pick up already?" More weird sounds made Nayeon frowned. And she knew perfectly well that was Mina's drunk voice.

"I did."

"Great," Mina said loudly. "I just—" The rustling kept going plus some whispered swearing. Nayeon was regretting this already. 'what in the world is she doing...' "I need to ask—" More unfinished sentences and suddenly a loud thud. "Shit," Mina cried. But the noise sounded oddly close and familiar.

'Not this again' Nayeon immediately reacted and stood up from bed pressing the phone firmly against her ear. "You're here, aren't you?"

"Of course, silly, didn't you see how I almost broke my arm," Mina laughed. Forget drunk, Mina was completely wasted. Nayeon's heart was racing so fast, this was terrible. She clumsily put on her red robe and walked rapidly out of the house with her keys. Luckily for her, her parents' bedroom was way on the other side of the house and she could easily walk downstairs from her own bedroom and through the front door.

"Stay still," Nayeon warned Mina. The walk from the front door to the front of the yard was significant. Her house was surrounded by tall metal fences hidden by beautiful green ivy.

Exactly as she had expected Mina was sat on the floor against the fence by the door, barely holding her phone with her shoulder while she used her right hand to hold her left arm. She had landed in mud, her clothes were dirty and she reeked of alcohol.

Nayeon's heart felt heavy. Adding this situation to the exhausting day she had had, was overwhelming on a whole other level.

"You're here," Mina said lifting her head, making her phone fall to the ground.

"Not this again, Mina," Nayeon scolded her. She was completely mad, there was no time to feel pity for the girl. "Get up right now!" As soon as she raised her voice she looked around startled. She was not supposed to call the neighbors' attention even if the houses were far away from each other, you never know. "Please."

Mina seemed to have no care for the world. She tried to get up but her arm seemed to bother her. She whispered more nonsense under her breath.

There was no time for this. Nayeon tightened her robe and got closer, pulling the girl up in a second. She also grabbed the phone from the dirt and made Mina surround her shoulders to guide her through the gate. It was a hard task. Try keeping a wasted Mina still as she complained about her arm. Using the keys was even more complicated but she managed. Once outside, she moved Mina's arm out of her shoulder and let the girl to stand on her own.

Mina leaned against the wall and immediately held her injured arm again. She kept talking nonsense but Nayeon ignored everything, she had to take care of this. Fast.

"... why did you lie? why did she lie? why— why would— and then... then— why did, fuck my arm, maybe I can't jump that high— Hey, that's m—my phone!"

"Yeah, yeah," Nayeon said putting it in front of her face so she could unlock it.

"W—what are you doing?" Mina attempted to grab the phone back but failed and had to support herself on Nayeon again who just sighed.

"I'm texting Mr. Jung." Nayeon typed fast and then she locked the phone, she put it back in Mina's jacket pocket, securing it.

Mina stopped talking for a moment. Nayeon could smell the alcohol in her clothes, it was a humiliating sight. She couldn't say she had never seen Myoui Mina wasted, because she had. More times than necessary. She had seen her exactly in this state and exactly demanding to talk and whatnot, but she had never seen her this dirty and just... miserable.

Suddenly, in the cold waiting for Mr. Jung to get there, Nayeon felt like reminiscing. She helped Mina to stand better, allowing her to lean on her better and basically holding her by the shoulders. Mina's beautiful hair was a mess like the rest of her, Nayeon moved it out of the girl's face, as well as some mud in her cheek.

Nayeon had felt like helping her at Jaeha's party last time, but she didn't. Now, she just had to. And for a moment she allowed herself a break.

"You promised you were not going to do this again," she whispered moving her thumb slightly against Mina's pink left cheek. It felt strange. She was feeling the burden of the past on her shoulders, she hated it. And she hated how the girl kept hurting herself after all this time. 'this bad habit of yours, it never has been worthy of a princess'

Mina seemed to relax for a second, but then she let out a bitter laugh. "And you promised everything was going to be okay."

The night started to feel quite chilly. Nayeon could not pretend right now. Not when it was just Mina and her—and she wished it could be like that all the time.

"I guess we lied." Nayeon felt so so tired and it was not better when she felt her thumb wet. Mina's angel-like tears fell one by one. Nayeon had to look up to the sky to get it together.

"I just— I can't— I can't do this again," Mina babbled. "Not again, not again, please." The blonde girl was begging. Nayeon was confused, but she didn't dare to ask. Luckily for her a well familiar car turned by the end of the street. The chauffeur had arrived. He immediately got out of the car and approached Mina.

Nayeon cleared her throat and delivered the girl to the man. "She hurt her arm, I think." The moment had passed, and she needed to pretend again. "Next time I'll call the cops." She took one last glance at her past and walked back inside her dimly lit yard through the gate, closing it behind her. She felt the car driving away and the night became quiet again.

For a second she stood there. Taking everything in. When was this ever going to go away? But she knew deep down, that Mina was a part of her that she couldn't just erase as much as she had tried.

She stopped her silly feelings for a moment, she needed to get back inside the house. She was not amazed no one had heard a thing. Her parents usually took sleeping pills and no one worked at the house at night. Nevertheless, once inside she didn't go to her bedroom upstairs, but walked to the big studio down a few corridors at the left side of the house. She had to delete everything the cameras from the front yard had recorded tonight. It was fairly easy and she had done it before.

After that, finally, she could sleep. Or more like lay in bed. It was around 5 pm now and she had to get up early anyway. She kept repeating in her head that it was not worth stressing about it or overthinking it, yet, she was worried. What could have happened? How was her arm? She knew for a fact that Mr. Jung would take care of her just fine, but she was... worried. And mad. They were not kids anymore. They couldn't act like this. Mina couldn't keep acting like this.

The thing with Mina and her it's more complicated than it looks. Nayeon wished she could erase it, forget it, stop it, anything. But she can't just delete her phone number and expect the girl to disappear from her life. She has tried, but she always knows. She always knows when Mina is in trouble, she knows when the girl needs help, she just does. And even if they don't speak or see each other anymore, they both somehow comfort each other by just knowing that they are there. Nayeon knows this is the reason why Mina has endured everything that has happened and has not moved to another school or something.

The girl is relentless. Nayeon wishes she had a bit of the courage Mina has. She has never met anyone so honest and true to herself.

Their love story? That is really not worth talking about now.

But Nayeon missed her best friend even if she tried to ignore those feelings every day.

She felt for Mina so much. Especially knowing the girl has been derailing again. And no, the whole alcohol thing, that was not a side effect of Nayeon ending things with Mina. It started even before that, Nayeon hated it, how could she not?

Being the only heir of the vineyards' wealth, Mina was no stranger to different types of wine and their dangers when being consumed without regulation.

Nayeon adored how Mina could talk to her for hours about the aftertaste of different wines, aging barrels and their complexity, different varieties of grapes and wines and just so many terms that Nayeon didn't really understand, but she got lost in Mina's bright eyes every time. The girl was crazy smart and she was only 14 years old. Nayeon could see the whole process of Mina sheltering her feelings by learning about the vineyards and their management after her father passed away and her mother left. It was painful to see the girl aching, yet, it was not until her uncle appeared that everything went downhill.

He appeared with his promises of taking care of everything, ready to sell the whole family business to the highest bidder. Mina could not accept that. But how much say she got in all that? She felt useless and worried and Nayeon couldn't help her because she just didn't understand.

It started with the sentiment of wanting to forget and erase everything that was happening. During a sleepover, Mina stole a couple of bottles from the reserve they kept for special occasions. Nayeon humored her just because she wanted her friend to leave the pit of depression she had been wandering in for a while now. And she seemed excited about the whole thing. It promised to be fun anyway.

It was. Both fun and emotional. By that time, both girls were sort of discovering their own preferences and Nayeon simply loved how Mina fell asleep in her arms after babbling about how much she loved her even if they still didn't realize the depth of that love. Nayeon did not drink much that time, although she felt tipsy and giggly she felt responsible for Mina, who had indeed drank until she could stand no more.

The problem started when Mina did the same without inviting Nayeon. And more frequently. And started to skip school sometimes. The helpers at the house started to notice, they have taken care of Mina since always and couldn't let the girl suffer. They locked the bottles and hid them from her.

It didn't really help much because Mina was loaded. The girl didn't need the free bottles at home, with the right shady turns and the right amount of money she easily found the places that sold alcohol to minors. Nayeon warned Mr. Jung and he was able to threaten some of these places so they wouldn't sell anything to Mina.

Those were a difficult couple of years, but it made them get closer. No matter how much Mina was trying to get away, Nayeon stood there with her. And it all got better when they finally found each other romantically.

"Put that down."

"Just go!" Mina shouted. "I'm having fun!" Mina had the biggest smile and was wandering around the back of the mansion, way back where the trees stood up high, drinking from a blue glass bottle.

"It's the middle of the night, Mina, everyone at the house is worried and we need to go back."

"Won't you relax already? Here, take this," Mina said reaching for her pocket and throwing something in Nayeon's direction.

"What the hell, Mina?" Nayeon immediately threw what she caught to the ground. "You are carrying pills now?"

"That's just candy!" Mina started laughing hysterically. "Have you not heard of the placebo effect? I just wanted to trick you, so you get off my back for a minute."

"Get off your— Yeah right!" Nayeon was not even sure why she kept trying. "You know you're acting stupid, you know this is not you! That's why! I won't just leave you to lose yourself."

"So what if I do?! There's nothing else for me!"

Nayeon was supposed to calm her down and bring her back home, she was doing the opposite. "Nothing else for you? Then what am I?!"

"You—"

But Mina didn't say anything. Nayeon was mad, but she also could feel her heart pounding against her ribcage and she simply needed to try this.

"What?" She asked quietly now. "I am here for you, you know that. I've always have."

"Everything... He is going to take everything," Mina relaxed and let go of the almost empty bottle.

"He is not," Nayeon got closer. "I told you, you are to have everything in your name, you have been studying for this, it's your signature that can allow this to sell or not, Mina."

Nayeon was not sure how lost Mina was, how her mind was working and fooling her but she could see that right now in that moment, something had finally clicked in her head. Nayeon could finally see her best friend again, the real her.

Mina got closer and simply wrapped her arms tightly around Nayeon, who received her with pleasure and a sigh of relief. The girl was completely drunk and reeking of cigarettes and alcohol, who knows where she had been that night before she got to the mansion but she could also smell her usual lavender shampoo. Home.

"Thank you for not leaving me," Mina sobbed.

"I won't, you know I love you," Nayeon said reassuring her.

Mina cried for a few more minutes and then she moved back a little, to look at Nayeon's eyes.

"Do you know I love you too?"

Nayeon did. But these words seemed different from all the other times. This time Nayeon's heart couldn't catch a break. This time she could feel these words affecting her stomach and her palms and... These words demanded a different kind of answer.

So she leaned down to catch Mina's lips. She held her tight and kissed her softly. Nayeon could feel Mina clinging to her like never before, and following the kiss with eagerness.

It was refreshing.

They both needed that. They needed each other.

Nayeon was able to make Mina come to her senses. Little by little. The girl started to worry again about her studies both academic and regarding the family business. All Nayeon had to do was research and make Mina understand that she did not have to worry, her uncle could not do anything about the business without Mina's signature, period.

The dark days passed with the help of everyone, especially Mina's effort to be better. Nayeon couldn't be more proud. This was the real Mina. Elegant, sweet, smart, and kind Mina. Not the one that got lost in dark streets and frequented the wrong crowd. It was a big relief. Everything was easier with the perks of starting their romantic relationship. It had been confusing for Nayeon for a long time, but she knew it. She liked Mina for more than cuddles and sleepovers. She was not sure when the attraction started, it was only natural.

At first, they were reckless, typical young dumb in love. So much so, that it became obvious for Mr. Jung. Mina told Nayeon about it, the man only asked for them to be careful. So they were. Really. A lot. No one knew about them. They could be happy inside the mansion, it was perfect. And outside, they were the best friends ever. No one would question if they held hands or not.

They had the best year ever. Mina stopped drinking for her life with the help of therapy that soon she quit declaring—herself—that she was cured, and only had a few drinks at parties or stuff like that. Which, Nayeon did not approve but it was impossible to make Mina understand, and as long as she didn't start the self-sabotage journey again, it was okay.

Both girls were popular, especially Nayeon. They had their close group of friends, of course. That is when everything went downhill, so did their friendship. It was silly, really.

Nayeon's father caught them kissing, what a rookie move. But it was enough for Nayeon to lose it. Plus, the man threatened both her and Mina. He promised that if their relationship didn't end, Nayeon would lose everything. Money, her studies, family, all of it. And he made sure to add Mina in that too, threatening to hurt the whole vineyard's business and Nayeon couldn't let that happen.

The worst part? She had to lie to Mina. Until this day the girl thinks that Nayeon just decided to forget about everything, to betray her, to abandon her without reason or without care. To this day Mina believes that Nayeon did everything selfishly and Nayeon has had to act like it because it was the only way she could keep Mina away and safe. Away from all this bad. Away from the danger her father brings. She cried herself to sleep every night the first weeks. Then, she just became numb to it.

And the real pretending started. Junior year came to an end, her school president campaign went wonderfully and she started dating Jaeha. Simply amazing.

The rumors about Mina? You could say she started them, but she didn't make them bigger, people just distorted everything and she... didn't do anything to stop them. It would have made the lie questionable. And she needed to break Mina's heart to keep her away. That was just it.

Now, all the feelings were messing with her mind. Mina was once again a train wreck. But she didn't know why.

It was not only until Monday that she could maybe spot the girl and see if she was okay. Physically at least.

School was great for Nayeon. Despite all the pretending and lies, despite all the acting she puts up with, she likes being queen. She loves being loved. And she will protect that reputation until the end. It was her last year, she just had to do and be her best.

In the morning she couldn't see Mina in class. It was the first alarm. Later, she had a short meeting about a sports event so she couldn't check if maybe Mina was just late to class, but it didn't seem to be the case because back in class, she still had not arrived. It didn't matter anyway. It's not like she was going to do something about it, right? Maybe she just selfishly wanted to reassure her mind to feel better. Of course she didn't care.

She was not sure what it was but she kept hearing annoying whispers and unusual stares, not like the admiration stares. That should have been her second alarm.

Her third alarm came during lunchtime. At the cafeteria, in her usual spot with Jaeha's friends. The weird secrecy became apparent.

"...tiny ass nerd, but I'll admit she is a bit scary."

"She is the victim here, and it might be a sensitive topic, guys. Let's not—"

"What is that topic?" Nayeon asked sitting down next to her boyfriend, as she caressed his nape. He had already gotten her tray with lunch for her.

"Babe!" Jaeha turned to her and seemed surprised. All his friends did too. "You're here— Uh— How was your morning?"

Nayeon sighed. It was evident there was something no one was telling her. Why? "Pretty exhausting," she said. "It seems like everyone's hiding something from me, so you all better start talking, okay?" Nayeon was desperate to know but she had to play it cool, she was not going to beg them or anyone, really. That's not who she is.

"We were just talking about that girl that—"

"Dude!" Jaeha stopped him and sent him a knowing look. "I told you."

"She said speak."

"Yes, speak, please," Nayeon insisted. What the hell was he doing?

"No, don't," he replied. "Babe," he turned to Nayeon, "I promised I'm just looking after you. You have to believe me."

Oh, but Nayeon didn't. Even if his intentions were good, Nayeon didn't trust anyone that easily. And whatever it was, she could take it. "Shin Jaeha, you are going to tell me right now what's going on or I'm telling your mother that you broke my heart."

"That's not—" He was about to protest, but Nayeon knew that was more than enough to make him speak. Jaeha's mother would make her son regret having hurt perfect Nayeon for the rest of his life. Literally.

All his friends knew this as well and just lowered their heads, focusing on their meals. He was cornered.

"I'll call her," Nayeon grabbed her phone and started scrolling through her contacts.

"Okay, okay, just... don't do that, okay," he said. "Babe, I just wanted to protect you, you know? This situation might be triggering for you and—"

"I can decide that."

"That's what I said," one guy sang slowly making fun of Jaeha. Everyone else giggled.

"Okay, make fun of me for protecting my girl."

"Jaeha!" Nayeon had enough. But she quickly apologized for raising her voice. "Just— tell me."

"Fine. That girl that took advantage of you is doing it again. To a junior no less. I've been trying to tell everyone not to tell you because I know how hard it was for you back then and—"

Nayeon stopped listening. She could feel the blood in her ears. Her mouth felt dry. What? It simply didn't make sense. She could be mad at her boyfriend later. Now, she just stood and walked away from the cafeteria as fast as she could. She got to the locker room out of habit maybe, given how frequently she had been visiting that place.

She took her phone and saw the last call made. It was still that number she had memorized. She considered calling for a moment. But she couldn't. This was silly. She felt stupid, none of this mattered. So what if Mina was in trouble again? It was none of her business.

She started feeling better again. She breathed slowly and deeply and it was over. She could ignore this. It didn't mean anything. She was someone else now. Not Mina's friend, not Mina's carer, certainly not Mina's girlfriend. She had learned to not care. Easier that way.

She acted mad at Jaeha for the rest of the day and excused herself to go out with him thanks to the student council meeting she had. That was great to take her mind off and ignore whatever was happening. Nayeon was about to feel so overwhelmed she was not going to be able to keep pretending so well, but she was better than that. She was better than all those stupid feelings. Besides, the fact that Jaeha had told everyone to not tell her anything kind of worked. That way she could ignore everything and no one was bothering her.

Sort of. Jeongyeon was always bothering her. "Hey there, Ms. I call the shots."

"Hey," Nayeon sighed not in the mood to follow with a nasty comment.

"Oh, are we sad about something?"

"Just tired. Why are you here so early?"

No one was ever early, except for her secretary, she ought to arrive soon enough, but it was indeed quite early even for her.

"Missed you."

"Right," Nayeon rolled her eyes and kept organizing her paper sheets for the meeting. Jeongyeon seemed to get the hint and just sat down in silence.

One thing she liked about Jeongyeon, she never pushed more than needed and she always seemed to get her looks.

Soon enough, everyone started to arrive. Except for Sana who was always late, but they could start the meeting without her. This meeting was quite important. They finally officially settled for frozen fairytale so now they could divide different tasks and ask for help from the decoration team, band club, sound effect group, and everything. Plus, they could start promoting and selling tickets, because they also settled for catering, bar, the whole budget and set a price to start selling tickets as soon as Sana got them designed and printed. The truth is they were a bit short on time.

Nayeon is not sure how that happened but they were behind a week and it was a crucial week. Nevertheless, they were a smart efficient team, they were going to make it. And everyone was going to have the best prom ever. How could they not if she was in charge?

When she ended the meeting, not everyone left. It was not odd that Jihyo had stayed because she had asked her to stay for a minute. It was not odd that Jeongyeon had stayed either because they usually fooled around after meetings. But it was definitely odd when, Chaeyoung, her always punctual secretary remained seated.

Nayeon looked at Jeongyeon and raised her brows slightly so only she could understand that today was not the day for any funny business. Jeongyeon made a face and turned to leave not without first unnecessarily kicking Chaeyoung's red backpack.

Chaeyoung only put it back in place without trouble and remained in her position.

"May I help you?" Nayeon asked once Jeongyeon had closed the door.

"Yes," Chaeyoung said. "Could we talk in private?"

Nayeon wanted to laugh a bit. What could she possibly have to say that it needed privacy? Oh, she certainly was not in the mood for more nonsense.

"Here is fine."

Chaeyoung frowned and started to slightly scratch her neck, evident confusion in her face. "I'm not sure it is."

"Why is that?"

"We are not alone, I should really say this in private."

Nayeon sighed and started to gather her things. "Listen, I'm a busy person, and what could require such privacy? Do you mind Jihyo?" She asked Chaeyoung as she finished with her task.

"I don't," Chaeyoung said almost as if it was too obvious. "You might."

"Wh— Oh, come on, just tell me already, she is fine," she said giving Jihyo a look to which the girl nodded and sat on top of one of the tables.

"I'm not even here," she said.

"Alright, Chaeyoung," Nayeon sighed. She was tired and she knew that whenever this girl wanted to talk or had questions or anything it was meant to be a bit exhausting, but she liked the girl. She was efficient and helpful and really organized. She cared for her team, she actually planned on scolding Jeongyeon for always annoying her for no reason. 'yes, I have a soul'

"Well," Chaeyoung started. "I really need you to apologize to Myoui Mina and tell everyone the truth."

Nayeon frowned immediately and smiled in bewilderment. "Excuse me?"

"You know," Chaeyoung said. "Apologize and then tell everyone that the rumors about her are not true, that you dated, and that everything that happened was mutually consensual."

Oh, Nayeon felt that deep in her soul. She felt like throwing up. What the hell was this girl even saying? And then she turned to Jihyo, with a terrified face. She should not have heard that. 'no, no, no'

"Hey, Nayeon," Jihyo stood up from the table as soon as Nayeon caught her eyes. "Nayeon, it's okay." She held her hand that had started to shake. "It's okay."

"Ho— how?" She managed to breathe out.

"You think I didn't know?" Jihyo smiled and held a laugh. "We were all friends, come on."

Nayeon shook her head and released her hand from Jihyo's hold. 'no, this is all wrong' She couldn't let this affect her. What was even happening today?

Then it hit her. "You're the junior, aren't you?"

"About the new rumors?" Jihyo answered instead. "Yep."

"Why don't you apologize and explain, then?" This time Nayeon regained confidence and walked closer to where Chaeyoung was sitting, even supporting her hands on the desk, challenging the girl.

"I tried," Chaeyoung explained not affected by Nayeon's proximity. "I called, texted, emailed, nothing's working and no one at school believes me, not even my friends—"

"Oh, yeah," Jihyo started laughing as she pointed at Chaeyoung. "I saw her trying to convince a group of people at the cafeteria," she explained to Nayeon as it was hilarious. It wasn't.

"Then that's your problem," Nayeon finally started to feel better, she had nothing to do with any of this. "You fix it."

"That's what I'm doing." Chaeyoung grabbed her red backpack and was ready to get up. "I'm asking you, you started this whole problem, and you ruined her reputation, you have to do the right thing."

"And why the hell would I do that only because you ask me?" Nayeon couldn't believe the nerve.

"Because," Chaeyoung stood up and looked up at Nayeon who raised an eyebrow with her crossed arms. "If you don't, I will tell everyone about you and vice president Yoo Jeongyeon's kiss."

Nayeon's face dropped and she uncrossed her arms. This day was definitely a fever dream, right? It had to be. "How—" 'She saw us' It all came to mind now. 'she indeed saw us'

Chaeyoung bowed slightly and walked to the door. But before she could leave she turned around. "Oh, and we are not behind by a week, you just counted wrong. I would never let us be late. Tickets sale starts on Wednesday," Chaeyoung nodded and finally left.

The door closing produced an awkward silence that made Nayeon question her whole existence. 'this is not happening'

"Well," Jihyo sighed and walked near Nayeon. "She is fierce, isn't she? I think you have a tiny problem," she laughed mimicking Chaeyoung's height with her hand.

Nayeon couldn't move. She was sure Jihyo said something else but she couldn't understand. She felt quite nauseated. 'I didn't have lunch' she thought trying to forget everything that was happening, trying to make it feel okay and normal.

But it wasn't. Not at all.

She certainly had a tiny problem.

Chapter Text

Urgent.

It was urgent that Chaeyoung talked to Dahyun in private. Chaeyoung's brain was about to explode. All the little Chaeyoungs working in each department were running from one place to the other screaming as everything burnt down. And that is not normal, you know Chaeyoung's mind is barely disrupted. All the tiny Chaeyoungs usually hum a soft melody as they do their work so efficiently that they feel proud.

After Mina left, Chaeyoung couldn't speak. It was new. She had acquired that the last time Mina had left her alone unexpectedly. Not so unexpectedly the last time... as she had learned when you word vomit terrible things at someone, it is indeed normal that they might leave.

But now, she had not said anything wrong. She wanted to say a lot, but it was interrupted. Awfully and gut-twisting terrible. So confusing, so emotionally charged that she couldn't speak.

Her friends took her home. Momo drove them and left with Tzuyu. As usual, as expected, almost as if they had had the typical smoothie Sunday. Except they never got their order. Right? Chaeyoung couldn't remember.

She almost felt relieved. But this time something was telling her she needed to react. To talk. This time she could feel the urgency of the situation on a whole other level. Last time she was out of it. This time she had to react. Somehow.

"Chaeng?" Dahyun asked seeing Chaeyoung had not really moved since they got in. "I'm so sorry I didn't realize sooner about—"

But Chaeyoung couldn't hear any of it, she had to react and she did. She ran. Away from the turmoil of emotions and words, and words, and words.

Remember, Chaeyoung is not a violent person, but she just really needed to punch something. So that is exactly what she did, over and over. Once again not even bothering to wrap her hands or wear gloves. It is not really a bad thing if you do not do it all the time. Chaeyoung didn't do it all the time, only when she was so frustrated she needed to feel the roughness of the bag. Chaeyoung's fists clenched with frustration as she approached the punching bag

Why something like that was so relieving? She was not sure. But it emptied her mind. She could only feel the growing pain in her hands and arms and soon enough in her lungs, she needed air.

She needed to take a break but it was not something she was going to allow herself, the room echoing with the rhythmic thud of her punches. Her movements were fueled by a potent mix of anger and determination, each strike resonating with a raw intensity. The boxing bag swung violently, absorbing the force of her blows.

A low growl escaped her lips, a manifestation of the pent-up emotions driving her relentless assault on the bag. The air in the room crackled with the energy she poured into each punch, the physical manifestation of her inner confusion.

As beads of sweat formed on her forehead, she felt the discomfort of her clothing, she took her top off in a swift movement and kept throwing strong punches. She overworked herself so much, she lost balance and one of her blows missed the punching bag, making her fall forward. She steadied her body by holding the trembling punching bag and let out a scream in frustration.

Chaeyoung stayed there breathing in and out until her breaths became normal again. She felt dizzy and exhausted. Why was she so mad? Because things were falling out of her control. Everything. But it was even more frustrating when she realized through each punch what she didn't want to accept; she couldn't control everything, she couldn't fix everything.

'I can only try' she thought. 'and I will try'

It was clear in her mind that she needed to go back up there and talk to Dahyun. Tell her all the things she has been keeping. But it was confusing when she realized what was actually happening. It was new.

Chaeyoung always thought that her feelings for Dahyun were number one. Above everything and everyone. Only this time, she was reacting all because of someone else. The urgency, the state of emergency set up in her head was because of Mina. She didn't want to lose Mina, she cared for Mina, she even... missed her. Hell, she even missed the girl right now.

So much so that Chaeyoung felt embarrassed and somewhat like a liar. Because she was using her energy and feelings for someone else. In Chaeyoung's mind, that was definitely wrong. Yet, she couldn't change it back. It has been happening every since the day that girl appeared in her life.

Mina messed with her mind from day one. Mina changed her plans and disturbed her peace. Mina made her try things and somehow, she liked it. Mina made her feel comfortable in situations where she didn't usually. Mina made her feel... normal.

And feeling normal for someone like Chaeyoung is not the default. Of course, she has heard and read all about it, everyone says she is but she knows she really isn't. And that is okay because what does it really mean to be normal? It is just some stupid human convention and Chaeyoung knows this.

But it is nice to fit in.

Mina does that for her. Chaeyoung came to realize all these days without Mina, that she finds herself in her. In a way, she needs the girl around, or rather, she prefers to have the girl around. But do not misunderstand, it is not only a selfish wish to feel better. Chaeyoung wants to make Mina happy as well.

She does. She really does and it makes her mind ache and her stomach hurt and her hands sweat because Mina is not Dahyun. And Dahyun has always been her one and only. Her safe choice, her perfect choice, her most beautiful person.

Chaeyoung wanted to... cry? Almost as if she had to apologize to Dahyun. Forgive herself as well. She was not sure what this emotion was but it was scary.

It was not that late when she finally gathered the courage to walk to her room. As she had expected, her mother was waiting for her in the living room.

"Chaeng?" Her mother called before she could step on the second set of stairs leading to the second floor. "Can I help?"

Chaeyoung knew her mother was going to be there. She always was. Most probably, Dahyun had said something and everyone knew she spent a great deal of time in the basement when things were being difficult.

Ever since she was little and her family was finally coming to understand how different she was, her mother would ask if she could help, giving her the opportunity to fix things on her own. Chaeyoung liked to have that safety net, but she didn't need help right now. Not from her mother at least. It was enough to know that she was there.

"You always help me," she answered honestly. "I'll let you know if I require more help."

"Alright," her mother nodded and smiled shortly.

Chaeyoung trotted to her room. Feelings threatening to break the momentary peace of mind she had created. It was like the eye of the hurricane. She only had a few minutes of peace before the effect wore off. She knew it was the effect of the endorphins post-training after all.

"Okay," she said aloud. "Okay, I can fix this."

It was time to do what she did best. The only thing she could do, honestly. It was past her usual bedtime but she carefully erased everything on her whiteboard and left to take a shower.

In an hour or so, she had everything ready. Her board with every important date, she had freshened up, her school supplies, and the most important thing: she had made a list. 'nothing better than a list'

To Fix

1.
2. Talk with Dahyun
3. Talk with Momo and Tzuyu
4. Get Angelo's number
5. Talk with President Im Nayeon

It was simple, yet she needed to visualize it so she wouldn't miss a thing tomorrow. She sighed. There was no point circling it. She turned off her light, got in bed, and stared at the list in her notes app. Before she locked her phone she tapped a few letters on the screen.

To Fix

1. Mina
2. Talk with Dahyun
3. Talk with Momo and Tzuyu
4. Get Angelo's number
5. Talk with President Im Nayeon

For Chaeyoung, being number one was a big deal. She fell asleep thinking about her top of the list and it felt right.

***

Chaeyoung's plan was simple. She needed to wake up early to be ready. Mentally and physically. She was going to talk to Mina and make sure the girl was alright. Chaeyoung had not tried to reach out last night because she was too overwhelmed and failed to do so.

The first thing she did after waking up was text her.

To Mina
let's talk
good morning

But she didn't get an answer. She tried again.

To Mina
I guess you must be sleeping
answer ASAP
yes, I know what that means.

She waited while getting ready to go. Nothing happened.

To Mina
I also know FYI, FYI
see what I did there?

Well, if texting was not going to work. She called. About three to ten times. Nothing happened. She needed to move on with her day and her list. Ignoring the nervousness creeping up her stomach every time Mina did not pick up.

"May I come in?" She knocked softly on Dahyun's door.

"Yes!" Dahyun answered from the other side. "I was about to go to you anyway."

Chaeyoung felt a bit uncomfortable seeing how messy Dahyun's room was. It rarely looked like that. She felt the impulse of starting to pick up the clothes from the floor but she knew that was not necessary right now and maybe, just maybe it had to do with the nervousness growing in her.

Instead, she started tapping her finger against her school skirt. "I need to talk to you, it's urgent." Chaeyoung needed to come clean and explain this mess. The reason for the lessons and how consented they were. Chaeyoung always thought that when she confessed to Dahyun it was going to be out of love. Now she needed to do it for something else. Someone else. And it confused Chaeyoung greatly, but she could think about that later.

"Chaengie," Dahyun sighed and got closer as she finished putting on an earring. "I thought you were going to skip today."

"What?" Now she was more confused. When had she ever skipped school? Except for when she got chickenpox, what a terrible memory. She shivered at the thought of it. "Why would I? I can't, I need to find Mina."

"I think she won't be there, you shouldn't either."

"Why wouldn't we?"

"Yesterday, there were people at the diner, Chaeng. Other seniors, people from school. They heard stuff and talked stuff, it won't be nice for you to go today."

"What do you mean?" Chaeyoung was slowly becoming infuriated. 'These punks wouldn't dare!' "Which part?"

Dahyun made a face and seemed frustrated at her. That was not usual. "You know she has a reputation, Momo warned us all the time. Now, I'm upset enough about not having been there for you, please don't make it harder, I won't let you hurt yourself again." Dahyun talked seriously.

"I'm not hurt! Why won't you guys let me speak? I asked for everything!"

"Why on earth would you ask for something of the sort, Chaeyoung? You're being ridiculous."

Chaeyoung wouldn't usually answer back at Dahyun. But she was frustrated. And that last word certainly didn't help. "You are all ridiculous! Talking about things you don't even know, that is ridiculous. I won't skip school, I will shut these fools up!" Chaeyoung turned around to leave but then she stopped. "May I get Angelo's number?"

"What? No," Dahyun frowned.

"Alright," Chaeyoung said and left. But as soon as Dahyun left for the bathroom, Chaeyoung went back into the room, scanned for Dahyun's phone, took it, unlocked it, sent herself Angelo's number and deleted the message. She normally would never violate Dahyun's or anyone's privacy but she was done playing nice and fair.

Before she left she picked up some clothes from the floor about to fold them but that would be reveling. She sighed in frustration and threw the clothes back to the floor.

At least she could mark one item on her list ready.

Finally at school, she could see what Dahyun had meant. She searched everywhere for Mina but the senior was not there. Plus, when she lurked near the senior's homeroom, she was immediately spotted and everyone seemed to be giving her unusual looks and pointing at her.

That's when Momo appeared. "You shouldn't be here, let's go." Chaeyoung was too surprised to say anything at first so she walked with her. Or more like, Momo pushed her surrounding her by the shoulders. Chaeyoung disliked it when she did that but she has had to get used to everything Momo did.

"Let go," Chaeyoung finally said when she felt it was enough, Momo set her free. They were near the cafeteria.

"Tzuyu is waiting inside she got a table, let's eat."

Chaeyoung didn't want to eat. She wanted to shout at her friends.

"Hey," Tzuyu smiled. "How are you?"

"I'm—" Chaeyoung was about to snap at them. But she remembered that you don't do that to your friends. "I'm confused."

"Okay, what is it?" Tzuyu asked as she skillfully peeled an apple.

"You shouldn't be here," Momo added. "I thought Dubu was not letting you come."

"She can't tell me what to do." Yeah, Chaeyoung was aware that she usually let Dahyun boss her around but now she was mad at her. And most people.

"Louder!" Tzuyu approved her statement while clapping.

"Did you guys say anything?" Chaeyoung needed answers. "About what happened yesterday at the diner."

"I love gossip, Chaeng. And I know you hate that but I wouldn't do that to a friend," Momo said. "I warned you about this and I told you she is bad news, but I won't go around spreading rumors if it has to do with you."

"Well, I'm glad," Chaeyoung said honestly. She felt a bit guilty that she had really thought Momo had been saying stuff. "But, guys, you have to believe me, she didn't do anything wrong."

"That's hard to believe."

Okay, Chaeyoung knew she needed to try and make her friends understand but the fact that Momo was so closed in her opinion towards Mina, annoyed her greatly. Plus, it was quite upsetting that her own friends wouldn't believe her. Then who would?

"Why won't you believe me?"

"I believe you, Chaeng," Tzuyu said now eating sliced apples. "I believe you guys had kissing lessons, of course."

"Yes," Momo added. Now Chaeyoung felt slightly relieved. "What we don't believe is that you knew what you were getting into. Kissing lessons? Was it more than that? Did she come up with the whole idea? That's the thing, Chaeng, when it comes to you—"

"Come on," Tzuyu interrupted her. "Don't."

"I'm sorry, but she needs to hear it."

"Hear what?" Chaeyoung was feeling more and more uncomfortable which was not something that came a lot when she was with her friends.

"You are easy to fool, Chaeng. You trust people and you know sometimes you don't understand everything we say or do, you know you are, well, different and—"

"Momo, come on," Tzuyu insisted. "God, where is Dahyun?"

But Momo kept going. "Bad people like her could influence you. Everyone knows what she has done before, now, do it to you? Out of all the people here, of course she was going to approach an easy target. That's what everyone has been saying. You guys might have agreed on something but you could have been fooled, Chaeng."

"For fuck's sake," Tzuyu whispered loudly as she rubbed her temple. "It was enough to say we believed her, she didn't need to know all the other parts!"

"We all try to protect you all the time, especially Dubu. Do you have any idea how she feels about this whole thing? Awful. Because she feels it's her fault you got tricked like that."

Chaeyoung knew sometimes she had a hard time getting things that everyone understood so easily. Chaeyoung knew she struggled with sarcasm or irony and the words people used. But she was not naive. Was she? Of course not.

She felt like she got punched. A strong clean punch to the gut. She knew those hurt. Everything Momo had said made her feel less. But she knows she is not less. Also, being different is not wrong.

"I didn't get tricked," she said lowly. Still not believing any of this was happening. Then she felt the pressure of the world on her shoulders and her neck itched. She looked around and she caught the same stupid glances and whispers from before. 'enough' she thought.

Chaeyoung got up quickly and approached a random table full of seniors. "You're talking about me, aren't you? Well, whatever you think about it, it's not true. Nothing bad happened!"

No one said anything but the pitiful looks remained. Chaeyoung couldn't believe this. Momo was right. People think she is naive.

"Chaeng," a calm voice approached her and pushed her back to her table. "What are you doing? Just lay low." It was Dahyun.

"Do you think that too?" She challenged her. Chaeyoung wanted to cry again. This was... humiliating. Yeah, that was the right word.

"Think what?" She asked not only her but her friends at the table. Tzuyu pointed at Momo.

"She talked and talked. Not my fault."

"What did you say to her?"

"What no one wanted to explain to her."

"God, Momo, why would you say anything?"

"Doesn't she have the right to know what's happening? The least we could do is help her understand."

"It's difficult for her, you know that, I tell you all the time."

"Well, but..." And Chaeyoung couldn't hear anymore. It was indeed humiliating. How could they speak about her without considering, well, her. She felt stupid.

But she wasn't. How could everyone, how could her friends think she is stupid enough to let someone take advantage of her. To even tricked her into thinking it was for her own benefit. She is not stupid.

Her head hurt. "I'm not stupid," she said just above a whisper. The girls stopped arguing.

"We know, Chaeng—"

"But you don't," Chaeyoung said. "If you didn't think that, then you would believe me."

If Chaeyoung had not prepared to have an emotionally charged day the night before and this morning, then she probably would have been hiding inside her hoodie in the library or something. But she still had control of this. She knew she had to be strong to clear things out. That's why she made a list. And despite this brutal revelation and how confused and frustrated it made her feel, she had to follow her priority. Mina.

She got up and left. There was no point trying to convince her friends if they all thought she was so dumb like that. Besides, she realized something really important: She was not going to be able to clear things out on her own.

Not exactly.

She had the feeling, that's why Im Nayeon was on her list But she wanted to avoid it. Plus, Mina had asked her to not do anything of the sort, but... she just had to.

And she wanted to. Enough was enough. 'I will show everyone just how stupid and naive I can be, just wait'

She ignored messages from everyone for the rest of the day. Although she kept texting and calling Mina from time to time, she even sent a few emails. She was pondering with the idea of a letter as well.

Mina had forbidden it. But plan revenge was on. Well, it was not really a well-developed plan, she was 40% just winging it. But it seemed on a good track. She could see that right after her talk with President Im Nayeon.

Chaeyoung had felt quite nervous. Mostly because she was breaking Mina's trust of not talking about what had happened, especially at school. Also, Park Jihyo was there, she tried to avoid that but well, probably Nayeon also thought she was not capable of anything. Everything Momo had said came to her in that moment and all the pitiful looks from the seniors. So she just went strong, Nayeon could see how serious she was about it. 'You're not gonna go around telling your friends, are you, Chaeyoung?' That's what Nayeon had said to her last time. 'you are so correct all the time' and the memory made Chaeyoung's blood boil. Then, it had bothered her for unknown reasons, now, she could put a name to it. Everyone seemed to think she was a certain way with a bad connotation. 'easily influenced, naive, correct, easy to fool'

Chaeyoung had enough of it.

"Hello?" Angelo's voice seemed lower.

"Angelo, are you busy right now?"

"Chae— Chaeyoung?"

"Yes."

"Oh, hey," he said his voice now with the usual friendly pitchy tone. "What's up?"

"Could we meet?"

"Meet? Why? Are you alone?"

"Not relevant, could you or not?"

"Right, okay, well," he said a bit confused and then added, "uhh... I'm actually still at school, I have been having trouble with my marks and—"

"So study hall?" Chaeyoung deducted.

"W— yeah, I—"

"Okay, see you in two minutes."

Chaeyoung ended the call. It was perfect because she didn't have to go somewhere else. In exactly two minutes Chaeyoung got to the always cozy study hall. She loved it. It was not bigger than the library she also liked, but it was more comfortable.

It had big windows that at this hour, let soft almost golden light get in. It had many bookshelves with all sorts of literature. What Chaeyoung loved the most was that it had private spaces to study, tiny spaces with tables and chairs for no more than three students. All perfectly polished with a shiny light brown wood.  And the rest of the tables and spaces were quite separated from each other, making it the perfect place to study or just rest.

She walked for a while until she spotted Angelo. He was in one corner near a window making a tower of pencils. On the desk, were the books he had tried to study and his iPad with a few notes.

Chaeyoung took the seat next to him. "Hello," she said.

"Hey," he smiled. "Are you okay?"

"Yes," Chaeyoung answered ready to skip formalities. "So, I need your help."

"How?" He stopped playing and turned fully to her. "Are you in trouble? Does Dahyun know you're here?" He reached for his phone but Chaeyoung stopped him.

"I can do things on my own, did you know that?"

"Ye— Yes," he doubted, probably confused at Chaeyoung's answer. "I didn't mean that."

Okay, maybe Chaeyoung was giving him a hard time because of all the other nonsense. "I'm sorry," she said. "It's been a rough day. But I really need your help with my revenge."

Oh, saying it aloud like that made her feel better. She was doing this. She was doing this for Mina. She deserved that. Nothing had ever been clearer in her mind.

"Ah, awesome," he clapped and smiled. "How is that going?"

"It's... starting." Chaeyoung felt that was adequate. "That's why I need to talk to you. Uhm, so, what exactly comes
next?"

Angelo laughed softly and shook his head. He didn't say anything for a while. Then he reacted. "Oh, you're being serious," he cleared his throat and cracked his fingers. Chaeyoung frowned at the sound. "Okay, okay, what do you mean by next? What have you already done?"

"Uh... well," Chaeyoung was going to be careful with her words, but then she remembered she had already spoken way more than she should have. For a good cause. "As you may already know I'm trying to help someone."

"Yes, Mina," Angelo nodded.

"Okay, and well, to do that I need a confession."

"Right..."

"So you said to find a weakness, I did. And I threatened someone with it, now what?"

Angelo seemed surprised but proud. "Look at that, you work efficiently."

"Yes," Chaeyoung nodded. Of course she did.

"Wait, you threatened someone, who?"

"President Im Nayeon."

"President— Chaeyoung! That's— No. That's dangerous, or something." He seemed quite scared. "You know I haven't been in the school for long, just a few months but even I know she is like... royalty here or something."

"Whatever," Chaeyoung said. "Royalty or not, I'm doing this. For Mina."

Angelo smiled and tilted his head. "Do you know how I'm a strong man and all?"

"No," Chaeyoung answered truly. She could beat his ass anytime.

Angelo didn't seem to care for the answer as he continued, "Oh, but this is so romantic, you're doing this for your girl!"

"My— no," Chaeyoung frowned. "My—" She couldn't say it. 'my girl' It sounded... nice in her head. But that was not the truth.

"Of course you are, come on, you wouldn't go this hard for any friend."

Chaeyoung gave a long sigh in frustration. He was only complicating things. "Anyway," she said. "What do I do next?"

"Listen," he said. "You threatened her, but what did she say?"

"Well, nothing yet."

"Uhm... did she... understand the threat?"

"Yes, of course, I was quite clear: Either she tells the truth about everything or I expose her secret." Chaeyoung felt glad that Angelo was intrigued but didn't ask further questions. No unnecessary gossip, see?

"Mhh..." He thought for a second and then added, "Do you have any solid proof about this secret? You know, to keep pushing her and all."

'oh'  That was quite smart. Therefore, Chaeyoung was the smartest because she knew she needed to talk to him. "I... I don't."

"Then, my friend, you will need to get some, otherwise you just made a mess."

"Okay," Chaeyoung said. "I can do that. Yes, I can do that." She might have to scheme a little and put a lot of work into it but she was willing to do that.

"So romantic," Angelo sighed dreamily.

"By the way," Chaeyoung thought he might as well keep helping her. "How do I reach someone that's ignoring me?"

"Tried text and all already?"

"Yeah, even an email."

Angelo chuckled and leaned forward. "I have an idea," he said seriously. "Have you tried knocking?"

'Oh' Chaeyoung thought. 'This guy is really smart' She felt silly. Of course. Her place. Quite impossible to miss, yet she did. "I believe I owe you, thank you," she said honestly.

"Don't sweat it," he said. "Just go get your girl."

Chaeyoung felt her cheeks oddly warming up. He insisted on calling Mina her girl and it made her palms sweat. "Uh... what exactly do you mean by that concept?"

"Which one?" He asked and for some reason turned back to play with his pencils.

"My girl." Chaeyoung almost giggles saying it aloud. "What makes someone your girl?"

"Well, just, you know," he rambled. "I don't know, I've never talked about this with a girl, but for some reason, I can only befriend girls here, anyway, just— your girl must be someone you care for and it doesn't have to be official just, it's the one you want, your person, your priority."

'your priority' Chaeyoung repeated in her head. She knew about her priority, she had made a list. Maybe Mina was her girl. "She is not... does she have to know about it?"

"Of course not," Angelo frowned and her tower of pencils collapsed. "I mean, ideally, yes. But you can also just choose someone, it happens. You get a crush and it silently takes over every aspect of your life, I guess. Man, I don't know, I think I'm better with revenge assistance."

Chaeyoung got enough. He had been of great help. "Okay, thank you again. And if you need any help with those," Chaeyoung pointed at the books. "Just call me, you have my number now. One study session with me and you will be all caught up."

They said goodbye and Chaeyoung was able to be done with almost every aspect of her list. She just needed to check on Mina. Luckily, now she was given another idea.

The only problem was that she was not exactly sure where Mina's enormous house was. The times she was there, she was driven. Also, the only things she remembered about the trips were particular smells and lots of turns. Even if she got the address online, she was sure no buses went that way and she didn't have money to pay for a taxi or something. Asking Momo for a ride as usual was out of the question.

She didn't doubt much, she needed help and she knew where to get it.

"Chaeng, is everything okay?"

"Mom, hi, yes," she said. "I need your help."

"Okay, tell me." Chaeyoung knew she could count on her mother. She always knew how to help her.

"I need a ride to the Myoui's."

"The Myoui's?" Her mother sounded surprised. "Uhm, okay, is it urgent?"

Ah, that word had been in Chaeyoung's mind all day, the state of emergency was still current in her head, only now it was organized chaos, slowly becoming better.

"Not quite, but could we go now?"

"Let me finish here and I will pick you up, are you at home?"

"I'm still at school."

"This late? Well, we can talk then, wait for a while," her mother said. "Do you need anything else?"

"No," Chaeyoung answered because she actually didn't but then... "Wait, will you get me some Skittles?"

"Ski— okay, yes, no problem."

Chaeyoung smiled when the call ended. She felt good. She had managed to stay calm. And she was seeing Mina soon, which made her nervous but she really wanted to see her.

Deep down, she knew things were far from being okay. Yet, she allowed herself this moment to feel proud of her accomplishments today. If she kept ignoring the fact that her friends thought so little of her, then everything seemed manageable. Plus, she was still with her mind set on showing everyone what she was capable of.

In half an hour or so, that Chaeyoung spent at the library collecting books with revenge theme, her mother arrived. She had already finished the one for English class, it was also revenge-themed. They were quite appealing. Although most were way too dramatic, intense, or fiction. Which is why she still needed Angelo for the real thing.

"Hi, Mom," Chaeyoung said once she had closed the car door.

"Hello, my daughter." Her mother started the car again and drove off. "How was school?" This car was great. It was super clean and it smelled just right.

"Academically, great," Chaeyoung answered as she fastened her seat belt, "socially, not good."

"Mh... I thought so." She sighed and made a turn. "Dahyun mentioned you might be having some trouble, she said you could explain it to me."

"Oh, because suddenly I can do things on my own." Chaeyoung was still pissed about that. "Did she really say that?"

"Yes, I asked what happened but she said it was up to you to explain everything."

"Right," Chaeyoung said. She was having the hardest time understanding her friends. "Wait, where are we going?"

"You asked for a ride to the Myoui's."

"Yeah, but, did you look for the address?"

"Most people in town know where they live, love. It's the biggest terrain around here. I've been there once or twice."

'makes sense' Chaeyoung thought. "Okay."

They stayed quiet for the rest of the ride. Until Chaeyoung recognized the views she had seen last time and realized they were near. Then, her mother stopped the car.

"Alright," she gave a long sigh and turned to Chaeyoung. "Before you go, you need to explain what's happening."

"I know..." Chaeyoung knew asking for a ride implied this, still, she felt a bit embarrassed. "Is it okay if I explain briefly and without details?"

"I just want to know if you will be okay."

"I will be," Chaeyoung nodded. "I just made an agreement and everything was okay until it wasn't."

"What about school?"

"People at school, including my friends, think I can't make my own decisions."

"That's not good," her mother shook her head. "You can make them, just remember these can be the right ones or sometimes, not bring the best outcome and that is okay."

"I know," Chaeyoung mumbled. "I am smart, you know?"

"Everyone knows that, love."

"Yeah, but— I mean, I'm not dumb." Chaeyoung felt like crying again but she looked outside the window and concentrated in the pat of her fingers. "At school, they said I can be way too naive... and I know sometimes I don't understand everything, but I'm capable of doing everything they do and more Even the bad things."

Her mother didn't answer for a second, then she said, "Then that's all you need to know. Don't mind foolish people." Chaeyoung smiled. Her mother always trusted her. And she liked talking with her. It was always a great feeling. "Here," the woman said, reaching at the back of the car. "Skittles."

"Thank you," Chaeyoung took them and then doubted for a second staring at the red package. "Mom..."

"Yes, love."

"I think I found my girl."

"Is that so?" Her mother tilted her head and smiled warmly. "What do you mean by that?"

"Oh, you know," she said as if she had known the recently acquired concept for a while, "the one you care for, your priority."

"Huh... and how is that going?"

"Not great." Chaeyoung was just starting her job as a protector. It was off to a rough start. "I will make things right."

"Chaeng, love," her mother wondered. "What about Dahyun?"

"What about her?"

"Do, uh... do you care about her?"

"Of course I do," Chaeyoung scratched her neck. Of course she did, only she was not a priority. And that confused Chaeyoung on a whole other level, she was ignoring it for the time being.

"I see," her mother nodded. "I trust you, Chaeng. I'll be here, you have an hour."

"Oh, okay," she said. She had not thought about that. "I'll go, then."

It was awkward as she got out of the car and walked to where she recognized the big gate for the Myoui mansion. Chaeyoung felt even smaller than usual next to it. There was a panel with many buttons, she didn't want to press any. Delaying the task, she put the candy inside her bag slowly and closed it.

Luckily for her, she was saved right on time. "Ms. Son." She recognized the voice immediately.

"Mr. Jung," Chaeyoung said. "Hello."

"Lovely to see you, were you about to call  inside?" The car entrance was slowly opening, he had walked out of the car just to greet her.

"Y—yes, I came to see Mina."

"I'm afraid Ms. Myoui has requested to be left alone today."

"Oh, I see." Chaeyoung couldn't hide her disappointment. It seemed like she had done a worthless effort and made her mother lose time.

"But," he said as he rubbed his chin, "if I remember correctly, she asked for us the helpers to not bother... Now, you're not a helper, are you, Ms. Son?"

"I'm not," Chaeyoung smiled. He was right, if she had said that then she could try and talk to her.

"That's perfect, then." He walked to the black polished car and opened the door. "Get in, it's not that long but it still a walk to the main door. I'll take you."

"Oh, thanks," Chaeyoung felt happy that she didn't have to press any buttons and relieved that she could get inside. In just a few seconds she was guided to Mina's room.

As requested the helper just left her there, excusing that she was not to bother Mina, so Chaeyoung was on her own to get in.

She swiped the sweat from her hands against her skirt and sighed heavily. Then she breathed in and knocked softly on the door.

There was no answer so she tried again.

"I asked to be left alone, please," Mina's voice resonated through the door.

Chaeyoung was not sure what to answer so she knocked again.

"If it's food just get in and leave it by the desk, it's open."

Chaeyoung technically had food... candy. So she used this new loophole to get in again.

"Thank yo—" Mina stopped talking when her eyes caught Chaeyoung. "Wh— what are you doing here?"

Chaeyoung liked Mina's room. It was oddly warm. She saw that by the desk there was a tray with breakfast and lunch untouched. She frowned.

"You haven't eaten." She looked at Mina. She was sitting in bed with a weird face. Probably surprised.

"Stomachache," Mina explained shortly. "What are you doing here?"

"I... came to check on you," Chaeyoung said lamely.

"How did you even get in?"

"Mr. Jung helped me, he said you asked for no helper to bother but, well, I'm not a helper."

"Of course," Mina nodded and sighed as she sat better. She struggle to do it and that's when Chaeyoung saw it.

"You—" She shook her head and walked to reach the bed. "You are hurt." Chaeyoung was not sure how to react to that. She felt guilty, she wanted to take care of her. She... hated seeing Mina physically hurt, which in a weird way made her visualize that Mina was not only physically hurt better. "Who did this to you?"

Mina was wearing a blue arm sling on her left arm. "No one did."

"What happened?" Chaeyoung got closer but not that close. She didn't know if she could.

"Nothing to worry about," Mina said. "It's just a small fracture." Mina made a quick movement to stand up. "You shouldn't be here and I look terrible." She dismissed the arm topic.

Mina walked closer to Chaeyoung standing in front of her. "Well..." Chaeyoung mumbled.

"Just go," Mina said softly. "You saw me, I'm fine."

Chaeyoung thought for a second. She had not planned exactly how to approach Mina. It was part of 40% winging her plan.

"Does it hurt?"

"It does a bit," Mina answered looking at it. She sat on the bed again. "You don't have to be here."

"I know," Chaeyoung said. Of course she didn't, she wanted to. She was not sure how to respond or what to say, she felt silly because she had wanted to be here all day. Her eyes traveled everywhere in the room but Mina, that's when she caught it. The perfect tool.

She approached to one side of the room, next to the big vintage armchair she had used once. A small table had on top a pouch with makeup. Chaeyoung took it and approached Mina again.

"You don't look terrible." Chaeyoung had been thinking about that since Mina said it. It was so far from the truth. "Would you let me do your makeup?"

Mina stared for a while, evident confusion. "Do you know how?"

"Yes, I enjoy doing it."

"Mh..." Mina was hesitant. "Okay, show me."

"Is it..." Chaeyoung pointed at the bed, she wondered if it was okay for her to kneel on it so she could have good access to Mina's face.

"Yes."

Chaeyoung was not that nervous now, she was doing something she was good at. She was ignoring the feeling in her stomach growing as she thought about how close she was going to be to Mina's lips.

She scanned the bag. It didn't have many supplies, but she could work with that. Chaeyoung assumed a kneeling position on Mina's bed, now a beauty station for their impromptu makeup session. The room was, like their last time there, in a soft glow, casting a tender ambiance that echoed the gentle connection between them. With limited supplies at their disposal, Chaeyoung artfully applied light makeup to enhance Mina's features. She had done it many times before to Dahyun. She loved doing it, but right now she felt it was even more enjoyable.

Chaeyoung's trademark, a tiny star. She wondered if Mina would mind it. But it was necessary. She delicately brushed a tiny star under Mina's eye, it became a celestial addition to the constellation of beauty marks adorning her face, her unique mole on her nose and above her lip. The air held a subtle tension, many feelings stayed unspoken.

In the quiet intimacy, Chaeyoung felt Mina's breath from time to time. The electricity between them lingered, fueled by the uncharted territory of their emotions. At least, Chaeyoung couldn't dare to explore them further, not right now. She could only feel the room getting smaller. She felt so close to Mina it burned.

She had finished. Yet, she didn't say anything to Mina as she used the moment to admire her face. With her eyes softly closed and her lips slightly opened, Chaeyoung wanted to scream. How could the girl be so ethereal?

"Okay," she said after a moment passed. "Ready."

"Let me see," Mina said opening her eyes.
Chaeyoung held a mirror for her. "You drew a star," Mina immediately spotted it.

"Yeah, it's... I like them, and you have a trace in your face," Chaeyoung said. "Here and here." She touched each mole softly. "It resembles a constellation, so my star looks perfect."

"Thank you," Mina said softly as she left the mirror and looked down at her lap. Chaeyoung wondered what the girl could be thinking. Did she hate the makeup? Probably not. "Why are you here, Chaeyoung?"

"I came to check on you."

"Yes, but," Mina cleared her throat and searched for Chaeyoung's eyes. "Let's not do this."

Normally, Chaeyoung would ask what she meant by this. However, she felt that was not appropriate right now. "Why not?" She said instead, maybe not appropriate either. She looked away. Not much time had passed since she arrived but it felt like it was going so fast. She felt Mina quickly slipping away.

"Because it hurts," Mina barely whispered. "You don't... You don't see what's happening and I don't want it to hurt anymore."

Chaeyoung was not sure what to say. Mina was right. There were many things Chaeyoung was ignoring and letting slide. But she had told her mother she was doing things right, so she was going to. "I know one thing," Chaeyoung said. "You're my priority."

Mina didn't answer right away. Chaeyoung scratched her head. "What changed?"

"I made a list," Chaeyoung answered honestly.

Mina laughed bitterly. "Did you?"

"Yes," Chaeyoung nodded. "I mean it. It's quite important."

"So why am I there?"

"Because I— I want you around. I care for you, I want to make you happy." Chaeyoung was honest about all of it. The problem seemed to be that it didn't sound truthful.

"Stop that," Mina said and accommodated her arm. Chaeyoung stared at the action. It hurt her more than she thought it could.

"Mina," Chaeyoung said as she slowly tried to reach for one of her hands. "Let's..." But she failed and only managed to caress the back of her hand with her fingertips. "Could we have like a lesson, but uh... without the lesson?"

Chaeyoung moved her hand back and felt like throwing up. She was sure of her question, she just feared the answer.

"I hate you," Mina said as she suddenly started laughing. "I hate how cute you made stuff like that sound."

"Wh— what?" Chaeyoung was confused once again. Did Mina hate her or was it just the expression? Cute?

"Just ask me seriously."

"I did."

"You know there is a word for going out and doing the things we do without it being a lesson," Mina asserted. Chaeyoung couldn't help but feel her stomach flipping at the things we do part. She definitely... missed that.

She gulped and stood up from the bed. "Okay," she said. "You're right. I— I think I didn't realize that's what I was referring to."

Mina smiled at her. For the first time since she arrived. A perfect gummy smile that almost reaches her eyes. Chaeyoung was aware of how sad Mina looked. She was not sure how to change that, but she was going to try from now on. "And what is that?"

Chaeyoung looked at her hands. 'My girl' she thought. She was not sure how Mina became so important in her life. It was quite fast but slow. Like deep but shallow. Damn, she was not making sense, but it was Mina the one that took away her sanity. Yeah, Chaeyoung might as well have lost her mind. 'didn't you feel?' Mina had asked yesterday before everything fell apart. She had ignored it yesterday, but now that she had felt the urgency of it and how easily Mina could slip away from her, she feared being away from her again. She knew what she wanted, there was no point trying to change it.

"A date," she said. "I want to take you on a date. And make you happy."

Mina looked away, although Chaeyoung was looking at her face, not her eyes. It was enough to catch the pink in Mina's cheeks.

"How can I trust what you're saying?"

"Well, that's up to you, but I made a list and I don't joke about them. You're my priority and I like that."

Chaeyoung was honest and straightforward. She didn't know if Mina appreciated that. Was it okay? Maybe she shouldn't say it like that. "It's not that simple..."

"Only it is," Chaeyoung said. "I promise I will protect you from now on."

Mina didn't say anything, only kept looking away. A silence was formed, Chaeyoung wondered if she was actually saying the right things. But at least, she was saying the ones she wanted to say. "Why?" Mina said a bit throaty.

"Because I want to," Chaeyoung answered. 'Because you are my girl' she thought.

"I think I can't accept like this." Mina now looked at Chaeyoung's direction again. Chaeyoung saw the slightest trace of her watery eyes. "I need time to think about it."

That answer annoyed Chaeyoung physically and mentally. She felt uncomfortable and exposed. But she soon realized it was all part of it. Part of doing the right thing. It was not a negative answer, Chaeyoung could work with that.

Chaeyoung nodded and reached for her backpack at the edge of the bed. "Here," she said. "At least eat some candy."

Mina accepted. "Thanks," she smiled weakly. "I will... I can— Uh, call you or text you when I— when I have an answer." Mina had never struggled to talk to Chaeyoung like that.

"Okay," Chaeyoung nodded. It worked for her. She couldn't deny she was a bit anxious and sad about it.

"ASAP," Mina said with a tiny smile.

"So you read my texts."

"Of course."

"You can't use those while talking, though. I have been told it's uncool," Chaeyoung explained.

"I, D, C," Mina spelled. It took Chaeyoung a second but she caught on quickly.

"Oh," she said and laughed a bit. "That's fun."

"You try it."

"I don't want to be uncool."

"You won't if only I can hear it."

That actually sounded nice. Everything would be quite different if only they listened to each other in general.

"Okay... uh, just L, M, K."

"About what?"

"You know, when you have an answer."

"I will," Mina said. And Chaeyoung knew it was time to go. She still had like 20 minutes more but she realized Mina needed time.

"I'll go now." Chaeyoung turned to walk to the door. Mina followed standing up from bed. "Thanks for not kicking me out."

They were by the door standing in front of each other, with a significant distance that Chaeyoung felt wrong.

"Thanks for making me pretty."

"You are pretty," Chaeyoung corrected. She didn't mean it as an attempt to flirt, she was just being honest.

"T, T, Y, S," Mina spelled again and gave a tiny smile.

Chaeyoung nodded and left. She felt glad Tzuyu had made her sit and learn all the silly text abbreviations she used to overuse a year ago.

Being with Mina felt awkward for just a second. Even if she felt slightly rejected, she felt glad that they were still them. She felt happy that Mina could talk to her and be uncool together.

Chaeyoung was unsure of many things. And she could see that Mina was hurting. But she was going to fix that.

The most important thing she could realize and she knew for sure now was quite simple and certain:

Her feelings for Dahyun had never felt this way.

Chapter Text

Gentle.

Blonde hair locks tickled her face. It didn't bother her.

For some reason, nothing the girl did bothered her.

Although Chaeyoung could feel weight and pressure on top of her, it was oddly lighter. Yet, it was perfect. Even if Chaeyoung would rather have stronger pressure when it came to contact.

She didn't mind the soft caresses either, they felt like heaven. Especially when Mina's hand went under her pajama shirt and held her waist. She remembered that. Mina had used her hand there, everything she was feeling she had felt before. The tender kisses, the warm breath... Maybe it was heaven because of the weird golden and silver glow everything had.

It was curious, because she was enjoying everything, even the way the girl started to kiss her neck, still holding her waist. Mina moved up, she couldn't see her face but she could feel her hair still tickling her. The curious part was how she even seemed to enjoy when Mina stopped kissing her neck and licked from there all the way up to her earlobe, sucking on it, and oh— Chaeyoung Couldn't understand how that could feel so nice, it looked so... unnecessary wet and annoying and— it felt just perfect, so perfect it sent shivers down her spine and suddenly the pressure was gone, the glow was gone, Mina was gone. Now, she only felt the weight of one bedsheet and the comforter, that used to be carefully wrapping her and now it seemed scattered.

At least she was still on her back, she always slept on her back. 'Just a dream' she thought as she blinked more times than necessary, trying to get her senses back. It was just a dream... a different kind of dream. It was actually her first-ever dream of the sort. Chaeyoung felt embarrassed. Not because of the content of the dream but... of Mina being there. Was that allowed? Should she tell her? She felt she needed to ask for permission to have her image there. Did she not? She was not an expert in the dreams area.

Chaeyoung breathed in and out slowly. She could feel the warmth emanating from all her body. She had to lick her lips and repeat to herself that the dream had ended. But the images wouldn't leave her brain. It had been a while since she had felt Mina's lips and this dream had felt so real she couldn't just let it go.

She gave in, still embarrassed, and closed her eyes to relieve it all. The ticklish sensation against her ear was the strongest sensation. Chaeyoung wished she was still dreaming... it was not enough to fantasize on her own about Mina's lips against hers, so delicate yet precise. Oh, but what a powerful tool the brain was because with a little imagination, Chaeyoung felt her breathing changing again. Flashes of Mina kissing her neck, sucking her earlobe, straddling her on her living room couch after having had ice cream, Mina feeling her arms, Mina removing her school tie, and— Maybe, just maybe it was all too much for Chaeyoung to take in right now.

She closed her eyes tightly and turned around in bed to hug her pillow, trying to relax. She is smart, of course she knew what was happening, it was natural after all, her hormones were acting up and she was having a hard time stopping it. For a second, she smiled.

"Wow," she said her voice muffled by the pillow. "I really like her."

It was silly. That simple thought helped to calm herself and sent a different kind of reaction, this time to her stomach and she felt her cheeks burning intensely. These were many sensations for just one Sunday morning.

Time had passed since Chaeyoung asked her girl on a date. Time that was becoming too long for Chaeyoung to keep ignoring the fact that she had not got an answer. Sometimes, more often every day that passed, she felt that maybe Mina didn't want to go on a date with her and she tried to think about that as a fine choice. Nevertheless, that thought produced a feeling she didn't want to feel. It was a negative one.

During this time that has felt like forever, Chaeyoung realized a few things. One of those things was that she didn't need more epic revenge books because they were not becoming any helpful. Actually, the other thing she realized was that movies were quite more educational. And, romantic teenage movies had everything she needed. Revenge plus dates.

She came across one movie one afternoon just mindlessly going through different channels, but now, she has streamed many more. All related to young love. At first, she only wanted insight on dates, but then she realized many of these movies included a revenge or blackmailing aspect. It was a treasure, really. What were the odds? She really didn't know.

Then, with those movies, she realized even more stuff. One was that texting seemed necessary to have a relationship, all the couples texted in the movies. So, as much as Chaeyoung hated texting, she had been trying to text instead of calling. And about the revenge part, she obtained a new method of getting information and she actually would rather to get it like that. Instead of getting proof with a video or picture, she wanted a recorded confession. She had threatened Nayeon with telling everyone about the kiss, but now she wanted to have Nayeon on record confessing to everything she had done to Mina. That would definitely make a statement and she will have to apologize.

Oh, and about Nayeon. The president had not contacted Chaeyoung at all. Not even tried to say anything at meetings. This made Chaeyoung mad because it probably meant that the girl didn't believe in her threat. Chaeyoung was pretty serious about it. Especially given that people were still talking behind her back and saying nasty stuff about Mina. Not all the time, but anytime the opportunity presented.

More now that Mina was back at school. She came back in the middle of the week without letting Chaeyoung know— not that she was entitled to know, but... anyway, it was hard.

It was hard seeing that nothing had changed and that Mina allowed it. Plus, Chaeyoung felt guilty.

They had not talked in person since that day at Mina's place, but they were in texting terms.

Some of it went like this:

To Mina
you're back

From Mina
I am

To Mina
don't worry about what people say, I will make it better

From Mina
no need, really

Yes, Mina insisted on Chaeyoung to stay still, but that promise was broken long ago. For a good reason. 'no one should talk ill of my girl' Enough reason for Chaeyoung.

Sometimes it went like this:

To Mina
want to have coffee?

From Mina
?

To Mina
Let's buy some at the machine

From Mina
Okay

That's how they would buy coffee at the half-broken machine in silence and then drink it separately. Chaeyoung didn't approach her more because she was giving her the time and space she needed. Except in texting. Mina had asked if she was okay texting so much, Chaeyoung reassured her it was.

To Mina
was class okay?

From Mina
as okay as it can be, yours?

To Mina
good, good

From Mina
Let's sleep, cute dimples

And Chaeyoung smiled because she had got her nickname back. They would text daily. Chaeyoung didn't even have to initiate it anymore because Mina would too. They would talk about anything, really, but mostly their days. Sometimes Chaeyoung didn't want to say goodnight.

From Mina
ready to sleep?

To Mina
Not really, I feel

From Mina
you feel?

To Mina
I feel needy and I wish you were here

From Mina
cute
we can imagine
let's sleep, okay?

To Mina
I will

Chaeyoung was not exactly sure why they only texted and couldn't talk, but maybe it had to do with what people would say. She was above that, but she wanted to give Mina that space. For now, she was okay with texting.

Until this morning, that is. She could only hope that dream didn't affect her routine. She knows she gets fixed on certain things or feelings, that one couldn't be one, it was distracting and embarrassing.

A knock was heard on her door. "Chaeng, breakfast."

It was Dahyun. Ah, her friends. Chaeyoung was still mad at them. They still had their usual routine and everything but Chaeyoung barely spoke to them, only necessary words. They acted as if nothing happened, she hated it.

After a quiet nice breakfast, she immediately encountered trouble: Her friends were there. Way earlier than usual. It was smoothie Sunday, she knew that, but she didn't feel like going after the last one.

"Chaeng, come here for a minute," Dahyun said. She was already dressed. Chaeyoung felt out of place in her pajamas when everyone was dressed to go out.

She sighed but approached them either way. Curiosity mostly. Dahyun saw her walking and sat next to Momo and Tzuyu on the big couch. She took the smaller one... she felt her cheeks slowly warming up at the memory of Mina and her there. Normally that wouldn't happen, you see? But her dream, what a wonderful thing.

"What is it?"

"Well, we want to apologize," Dahyun started.

"Yes," Tzuyu followed. "We were unfair to you."

"We were worried, that's all," Momo nodded.

"Okay," Chaeyoung scratched her head. She was not sure how that would make a difference. She still felt they didn't believe her. "But you guys don't understand, I'm not stupid."

"We know," Dahyun said. "But it is true we were worried, we're sorry, Chaeng. That's why we are here so we can talk."

"And we won't assume anything, okay?" Tzuyu said.

'Well, that sounds nice' Chaeyoung thought. It definitely felt different from the other times they talked. She knew one thing, she needed to be really honest this time, or else they were going to keep assuming things. "Thanks," she mumbled.

"We talked to Mina," Momo spat all of a sudden.

"You what?!" Chaeyoung hated that thought.

"We wanted to threaten her, but she was really honest and seemed genuine about everything she said..." Tzuyu nodded.

"She definitely didn't want to talk to us but she also said that we should ask you about everything," Dahyun explained.

"And that is true," Chaeyoung said. "You guys never let me explain and just assumed I was being tricked."

"I'm sorry, Chaeng," Momo said. "I shouldn't have said it like that, we were worried and felt guilty, we should've listened to you so that's why we are here... now."

There was no more delaying the situation... Chaeyoung knew what she needed to say next, it was just harder than she thought and not at all like she had expected it to be in the past. But it was important.

"I asked for kissing lessons," she said lowly. "I did," she emphasized feeling slightly more confident but still embarrassed.

Momo chuckled, of course she did. "You are so much fun, really. Why would you ask that?"

"Why would she accept is the real question," Dahyun frowned.

"I think both answers are pretty obvious," Tzuyu frowned.

Chaeyoung gave a look to Tzuyu. She probably did know the reason, after all, she was the only one who knew about her feelings for Dahyun.

"I wanted to learn how to properly kiss," Chaeyoung explained. "For you."

After her words, the air in the room changed. She was not sure what it was but it felt thicker.

"Me?" Dahyun seemed confused. Chaeyoung gulped and looked away.

"Told you it was obvious," Tzuyu said.

"Oh," Momo seemed to caught on everything. "Well, that seems more like Chaeyoung, yes."

"What is?" Dahyun asked looking at her friends, demanding an explanation. "Wha— what do you guys mean?"

She couldn't keep this any longer. "Dub, I— I liked you for the longest time," Chaeyoung said honestly. "I thought I did, I mean, I— yeah, I liked you as... you know, more than a friend and that's why I wanted to—"

"Hold up—" Dahyun said. "There's no way."

"W— Why?"

"Because! We are friends, we—" Dahyun frowned and got up. "We live together and well, you know I'm— I'm not like that."

"What do you mean like that?" Momo asked quickly.

Chaeyoung felt like throwing up breakfast. Something was wrong.

"I— I don't like girls, how— Why would you believe that—"

"Okay, wait a second," Momo got up too. "Why are you getting so worked up about this? Chaeyoung's crush on you was quite obvious, and even if it wasn't, there's nothing bad with it."

"I— I'm just not that way, I could never be that way," Dahyun insisted.

"That way?!" This time Tzuyu got up and started laughing. "Oh, you're so done," she said. "Come one, Chaeng, let's go."

Chaeyoung was not sure what was happening but she just followed Tzuyu and Momo upstairs. Or more like, she was pushed upstairs but still.

"My god," Momo said once they got inside Chaeyoung's room and closed the door. "Is she for real?"

Chaeyoung, naturally, had done her bed before going to have breakfast, she disliked the way both girls sat on it without care. Nevertheless, she was too confused to protest about that.

She had finally confessed her feelings and it was... anticlimactic. Terrible, sad, weird, unexpected, not right. It was definitely not right. She might have as well kept shut.

"Was she..." Chaeyoung almost didn't dare to ask. "Was she uncomfortable?"

"Oh, Chaeyoung," Tzuyu said and left the bed to stand next to her. She used one hand to grab her shoulder strongly. Their friends knew better than to hug her or anything of the sort.

"For what it's worth, Chaeng if you had a crush on me I would be delighted," Momo said.

"Yeah, me too," Tzuyu said leaving her shoulder. "Well, Momo would probably take advantage of it, but still, we would be thrilled!"

"Hey!" Momo complained but then thought about it. "You're right..."

"Guys, I—" Chaeyoung was confused. She could notice that there was something off in the way Dahyun was reacting and it was confirmed by her friends but even then, why? Was it so bad that she had feelings for her? Was Dahyun disgusted by the idea? That would make her really upset. Were her feelings so terrible? "I don't understand."

"It's okay, we don't understand either," Tzuyu said.

"She is being stupid," Momo said. "She should come around, but she needs one big apology to you before we allow it."

"Yeah," Tzuyu nodded.

"Come on, get dressed," Momo said as she stood up and opened Chaeyoung's closet without permission. "We should do something fun."

Chaeyoung thought they were right, because if they didn't, then she would be stressing all day. And she might stress all day either way but it was nice that her friends had apologized and wanted to be there for her. She felt included again. They were best friends, after all. And Chaeyoung knew fights and disagreements happened, so she felt happy that they could fix things.

In the end, doing something fun turned out to be the usual smoothies and cheese fries at their booth. Momo and Tzuyu didn't come up with anything and they rejected both of Chaeyoung's ideas: Going to the local library or going to buy her a new pair of gloves.

If you think about it, Chaeyoung's Sundays just kept getting worse. Two Sundays ago she had no idea anything like this would happen. At least their friends believed her now.

"I just want to say," Momo started as she chewed one of her beloved cheese fries, "we never thought that Mina was that bad, okay? I mean, we thought she was playing you but we never thought she had done anything that terrible, otherwise, we would have told your mom or something, see? We were just worried... and you weren't exactly explaining anything—"

"You never listened!"

"Oh, come on, Chaeng, you would get mad immediately and never finish your explanations."

"That's true," Tzuyu said. "But we also assumed a lot and well, I still don't understand something."

"What is it?" Chaeyoung sipped her usual vanilla smoothie. She liked this, it felt almost normal. Yet, she couldn't deny that the whole Dahyun situation echoed at the back of her mind. She was trying to ignore it.

"What are you guys?"

"Oh, yeah," Momo added. "We need to discuss that."

Chaeyoung's cheek warmed up in a second. She looked down at the table and scratched her head. She felt quite silly, yet, she enjoyed it. It was a nice silly.

"I asked her on a date..." Chaeyoung was honest. "She has not accepted."

"Why? I mean, did she say no or...?"

"She said to wait for an answer."

"Mmh," Momo hummed. "I get it, we scared her a lot, and judged her a lot and everyone at school has been talking these days, of course she needs time."

"Yeah, sorry, Chaeng."

"You have apologized enough today," Chaeyoung said. "I think I understand and I accept your apologies, please refrain from apologizing again."

Both Momo and Tzuyu laughed softly at that. "Okay," Tzuyu said.

"That's the Chaeyoung I missed." Momo reached across the table and ruffled her hair annoyingly.

"Please refrain from that too," Chaeyoung backed away on her seat and fixed her hair.

"I still don't approve of her, though," Momo said. "I get that you were not tricked but... what about all the rumors? I assumed the reality was not as bad as everyone said, I know these things get out of hand. And please don't get mad, just— talk to us."

"Yes, you keep saying those are not true and to stop gossiping but you need to give us something."

Chaeyoung sighed loudly. Maybe her friends were right, maybe she had been quite hot-headed about everything. She knew communication was important and she knew it was not one of her strongest qualities.

"The rumors are not true," she started confidently.

"What happened then?"

Chaeyoung thought for a moment. She was not supposed to say anything. But she wanted to clean Mina's name. At least for her friends to understand. Would saying something be so bad? She had to trust them, she could trust them, right? They could keep a secret and she could try and explain it to Mina. Was that okay? She felt conflicted.

"Would you guys promise to keep it a secret?" She decided it was time, keeping this from her friends only had brought trouble. She knew she was doing the right thing, it would be better for Mina as well. They could help and she needed help.

Momo squeaked at that sentence. "Sorry," she quickly whispered and gave a mischievous smile.

"We promise." Tzuyu elbowed Momo and frowned at her. She still smiled after that.

Chaeyoung sighed and nodded. She was ready to explain everything, or mostly everything. She was comfortable around her friends so this was not being terrible as long as she kept ignoring the fact that Dahyun was not there.

She decided to spare the details, just explain what she knew generally. From Mina dating President Im Nayeon to the rumors made up. When she finished explaining that, the girls seemed skeptical.

"Okay, so, you're telling me that perfect, always kind valedictorian President Im Nayeon—the one you drool about may I add— had a thing with the Myoui Mina, crazy rich reckless girl, and screw her over?"

"Drool about?! I do not." Chaeyoung has always been accused of that, it's absurd.

"You do, bestie," Tzuyu gave her a sympathetic smile.

"I do not drool," Chaeyoung protested at the same time she used a napkin to clean her lower lip.

"Right, not drool," Momo elaborated. "But you admire her lots, she represents everything you are always going about it's important, marks and punctuality, organization, etc."

"Huh, well, yes," Chaeyoung acknowledged. "But I have lost all respect now."

"Well, damn," Momo said as if finally taking everything in. "I guess we owe Mina a bigger apology than the half one we gave her the other day."

Tzuyu seemed to be in deep thought until she asked, "But why does no one know about this?"

"That's how gossip and rumors work, see? That's why I hate it."  Chaeyoung really did. "Mina said she didn't want to change people's minds, that it was a waste of time."

"But this is terrible," Tzuyu frowned. "We all think she is this awful person."

"I want to do something about it," Chaeyoung wondered if telling them about revenge too. "But she asked me not to."

"Well," Momo sighed. "At least we know now and we can really apologize—"

"No, but wait," Chaeyoung said. "You can't just yet, not until I explain to her that I told you what I was not supposed to tell anyone..." Oh, Chaeyoung felt like a liar. She had broken a promise for the second time but she kept trying to think that this was going to be for the best.

"Thanks for that," Tzuyu said. "We know you don't break your promises, but this is for the best, Chaeng." Exactly.

"We shouldn't keep secrets from each other, especially if it leads to us fighting," Momo nodded.

Chaeyoung felt warm. Cozy. She had felt so sad about her friends looking down on her like a child. Now, they seemed to have thought things better and she loved it., she wondered how they realized their mistake. She loved her friends. She was grateful they had apologized.

"Alright," Tzuyu said. "Enough feelings. I actually think this whole Nayeon thing makes sense."

"Why?" Momo turned to look at her with a smile, waiting for her answer.

Tzuyu just shrugged and said, "She is always giving me these nasty looks, I thought she hated me, but maybe she just has a thing for me, I could totally see that."

"Oh," Momo scoffed. "Yeah, sure."

"Come on, I'm super cute, I bet I—"

"Please!" Momo interrupted throwing a fry in Tzuyu's direction. "Since when are you so full of yourself?"

Tzuyu laughed and ate the fry. "I know my charms," she said.

Chaeyoung observed the whole interaction from her side of the booth. She had a few questions but she kept them to herself. "Guys!" she suddenly said stopping their chatter.

"Can you believe this girl?" Momo acknowledged Chaeyoung's call by asking and pointing at Tzuyu.

Chaeyoung almost felt like explaining that maybe Tzuyu was not her type, given Nayeon's current affair with her VP. Nevertheless, she was aware that she had already outed Nayeon to her friends and you are not supposed to do that, so she kept Jeongyeon's name a secret for now.

"Tzuyu is astonishingly beautiful," Chaeyoung decided to give the obvious answer. "She could most probably get anyone."

"See?" Tzuyu seemed proud, this time she threw a fry in Momo's direction.

They kept discussing it for a while, Chaeyoung stopped hearing them quite fast. She got lost in thought. Looking at her hands, she remembered her dream from this morning. Her smile grew. Then she remembered Dahyun's words.

'I'm not like that' 'I'm not that way' Chaeyoung was no expert, but those felt so... wrong. Their friends had confirmed. She couldn't believe Dahyun had said that. Was it just the surprise of it? She hoped. Still, it made her feel embarrassed.

"... right, Chaeng?"

"Sorry?" Chaeng stopped staring at her hands, lifting her head and looking at her friends. She tried to smile.

Sadness was evident, her friends could tell. "Ohh, you're thinking of Mina, right?"

"Damn, our Chaeyoungie is gone bad," Tzuyu shook her head.

"I was... not," Chaeyoung chuckled slightly. She was. "Guys, do you think she will accept?" It worried her. Many things were worrying Chaeyoung and that was not good.

"What? Of course she will," Momo said immediately. "I mean, the girl didn't just give you kissing lessons out of kindness."

"Yeah, we thought she had misleading intentions but, would you look at that, she seems to actually like you."

"Is that surprising?" Chaeyoung felt so... small and confused.

"I— no, Chaeng, not that she likes you, but the part where she is not bad," Tzuyu explained.

"But is it possible that she likes me, then?"

"Okay, where is this coming from?" Momo leaned forward, evidently worried.

"Dahyun was taken aback by the idea of me liking her," Chaeyoung whispered.

Tzuyu and Momo exchanged looks. Momo looked really mad now. "Don't overthink that," she said. "She will regret it."

"Yeah, we are sure it was just... bad timing or something, really," Tzuyu nodded.

Chaeyoung sighed. She had been trying to ignore it but the anxious feeling was growing fast now. She felt itchy all over.

"Maybe we should go," she said trying to think of her bedroom. Something clean, something organized.

"Okay, I'll drive us after we pay for this," Momo smiled a her and added, "But hey, you owe us details."

"Oh, yes, I almost forgot," Tzuyu clapped. "Juicy details."

"What details?" Chaeyoung quickly forgot her growing anxiousness.

"About these lessons, come on, and now you say you like this girl? Damn," Momo frowned. "We need the secret."

"There's no secret," Chaeyoung answered fast. Then she realized that was probably just an expression. "I mean, I don't think I can give you details."

Her friends laughed and kept making her blush. "Not without getting all flushed you can't," Tzuyu replied.

Oh, they were right. Chaeyoung immediately felt her cheeks warm and images from today's dream appeared once again. She really missed Mina.

"But on a serious note," Momo stopped laughing and cleared her throat. "If you need us, we are here, Chaeng. If you want to give us details or not, if you need help with anything, we are here for you."

"Yeah," Tzuyu joined. "And that doesn't mean that we think you are not capable of handling things on your own, because everyone needs help and we want to help because you are our friend, okay?"

Chaeyoung felt like crying, but she didn't. They were right and she was thankful they had said that. The truth was this past week she had felt like asking for help. Sometimes everything seemed too much without her friends and she missed them tremendously. Now she knew she could ask for help and it wouldn't mean she was not capable of doing things on her own. They didn't think less of her and that meant the world.

"I will," Chaeyoung said. "Thank you for saying this to me."

Finally, they paid for the food and walked to Momo's black Jeep. Chaeyoung has never been a fan of Momo's driving but she has had to get used to it. Although her driving was quite messy and fast, the car was clean, that's how she convinced herself it was not that bad, and with time, she has endured it better. Always wearing a seatbelt as well.

"I think I will ignore her for a while, I mean, come on," Tzuyu said. "She is always lecturing us and explaining what to say, how to say it—and now this?"

"I agree," Momo nodded changing the music. They were at a red light. Chaeyoung sat at the back and was observing her friends interact. "You do it too, Chaeng," she said looking back at Chaeyoung for a second. "She needs to apologize but first, give her a hard time, she deserves it."

"Okay," Chaeyoung nodded. Ignore Dahyun, got it. She was worried at first but her friends insisted it was just the shock of it and that she didn't mean it, so she was trusting that to stay calm.

After that she got lost using her phone organizing everything for the week until they got home, if her friends said anything else about it or anything at all, she didn't hear it.

"Your stop, cub," Momo stopped the car and turned around to tap Chaeyoung's knee.

She knew it was, of course. She locked her phone, unlocked her seatbelt and opened the car door to walk home. "See you guys tomorrow," she said before leaving.

Their friends said goodbye and then Tzuyu rolled the window down. "Don't get discouraged, remember you're hot!" Tzuyu shouted at her.

"Pocket-sized hot!" Momo's face appeared next to Tzuyu. "But hot nonetheless!" She screamed and left the window to drive forward down the street.

Chaeyoung frowned at their silliness but felt good to have been called hot. The second she lost them from sight and got inside her house, the positive cheery effect they had left on her, started to fade away. She felt nervous and worried.

Since they left to have smoothies right after breakfast, it was still early in the afternoon, she wanted the day to be over so she could wrap herself in her bed without it being like something was wrong but she couldn't.

After greeting her mom and finding out that Dahyun had gone out with Angelo, she left for her room. White. Her room was always comforting. She sighed and decided to keep distracting herself.

She read for a while, cleaned her whiteboard, watered her cactus, folded her washed clothes, and when there was nothing else to do, she sat on her bed. 'Crazy Sunday' She thought. 'Maybe...'

She had not texted Mina today. She would usually send a text earlier but her morning had been busy, from her amazing dream to her lame confession going wrong.

She wanted to tell her about that. The Dahyun part... not her dream. Definitely not the dream. There was no denying that she felt sad. She didn't have more energy and she felt small once again.

To Mina
I feel sad.

Chaeyoung had been texting a lot lately, nevertheless, she still failed to provide context to most of her texts.

As usual, Mina didn't take long to reply.

From Mina
needy again?

To Mina
No

Chaeyoung was quick to type that, yet...

To Mina
Well, maybe

But that was not the point.

To Mina
Dahyun hates me

After she sent that message she received a call.

"What happened?" Mina asked.

"Hi," Chaeyoung said. "We can text, you don't have to call."

Mina huffed slightly laughing. "Texting you is harder than all my subjects combined."

"Oh," Chaeyoung frowned. "Well, I guess I can help with the subjects."

"No need, cute dimples." Mina's voice was so soothing, that Chaeyoung laid in bed allowing herself some rest. "Tell me what happened—well, if you want to."

"I want to," Chaeyoung said. She was not sure why but whenever she talked to Mina, things just seemed easier. "This morning... my friends were here and well, they asked about the lessons and I owed them an explanation, right?"

"You sure did," Mina said.

"So I was honest, and— I said that I asked for them because I wanted to learn how to kiss and I confessed my feelings for Dahyun and now she hates me."

After a few long seconds of silence, Mina talked again, "Chaeyoung do you realize you didn't explain a single thing? Elaborate."

Chaeyoung frowned. Maybe Mina was right. Yet, she couldn't help but feel Mina was uncomfortable hearing all this. She was afraid to ask. So she just obeyed.

"I said that I liked her and that I took the lessons for her, Tzuyu and Momo understood that, but Dahyun didn't like the idea and used some words that I know are not correct and—" Chaeyoung frowned and stopped for a second, she found that saying it at loud made it more real. "She said she was not like me, that she could never be like that."

It was real. Chaeyoung felt wrong. Her existence felt wrong. Was she wrong? She was sure she was not supposed to feel like that. Was it wrong? She has always trusted Dahyun, all the time. She has always been supportive and caring, why was this happening? It was almost not fair.

"Chaeng..." The name left Mina's mouth way softer than usual. Mina sounded concerned. "Did she say it..."

"With disdain and disgust, yes," Chaeyoung felt her stomach twist. "My friends confirmed that to me, but I could tell this time. She has never said anything like that to me."

"I'm sorry," Mina said. "Maybe..."

Her incomplete sentence left Chaeyoung waiting, she thought probably Mina was not sure what to say. So she talked again.

"Maybe she is surprised, that's all," Chaeyoung tried to believe that. "Tzuyu and Momo said it was probably just the surprise of it all, maybe it will pass. It must have been very surprising for her to know that I used to like her. I— it will be okay, right?"

"Of course it will be okay, cute dimples," Mina said still sounding concerned. "Your friends are probably right, it must be the shock of—"

Silence. Chaeyoung moved her phone to look at the screen, the call was still going. "Hello?"

"...Wait," Mina said. "Did you— I mean— Are you sure of what you just said?"

"Huh?" Chaeyoung sat on her bed confused at the change of mood.

"You said— Are you sure of uh— the grammar of your sentence?"

"The grammar?" Chaeyoung frowned and scratched her head, Mina was always getting in her mind through the weirdest ways. "Which part?" Of course Chaeyoung was sure of her grammar, all the grammar aspects.

"You know," Mina replied almost too fast. "The tense part."

"Why would I not be sure, I'm sure." Chaeyoung got this sensation she gets when people understand something obvious and she does not but this time she was sure that was not it, Mina was asking something crazy and even she could tell that.

"Even uh... even when you said that— well, just—"

Silence. Again, Chaeyoung checked her phone to see if the call had ended. But no, Mina had stopped talking.

"I don't think I understand what you are trying to say, but I can assure you all my tenses were just fine," Chaeyoung said while laying back in bed again, feeling tired almost. Yet... this odd conversation was making her forget her previous anguishing feelings. Mina always did that.

"You promise?"

Fearful. That's how Chaeyoung identified Mina's tone. But why? Was it possible? Was she wrong? Maybe she was too tired and that was messing with her brain.

"I promise," she said. Whatever it was, Chaeyoung hated the idea of hurting Mina in any way, so she promised even if she was not sure what she was promising.

"Hey, cute dimples," Mina softly asked. Chaeyoung could have sworn she felt the words caress her ear.

"Mhh..." Flashes from her dream came back. Fingertips.

"How about you take me on that date you asked for?"

Oh, Chaeyoung's world stopped. She immediately got up, forgetting how sleepy she was getting. She stared at her whiteboard, she had just checked everything, and now she needed to add a date. Oh, god. She got closer and erased everything. 'This is amazing'

"Chaeyoung?"

"Uh— Mina, right, right," Chaeyoung started to nibble her thumb. She kept staring at her board, smiling. "Yes, of course I can do that."

"Yeah?"

Chaeyoung realized Mina was always asking for confirmation. Chaeyoung disliked explaining herself or repeating most things, but she had no trouble reassuring Mina.

"Yeah," she repeated. She couldn't believe she had finally got an answer. Her heart was beating so hard against her ribcage. Chaeyoung felt euphoric. Oh, she needed to do something, to run, to scream, she started pacing around her room as little as she could.

"Okay," Mina said. "I'll be waiting."

"Yes, yes, I—" Chaeyoung stopped for a second and took a deep breath. "Yes."

She heard Mina laughing slightly and Chaeyoung thought everything would be just fine. "Bye, Chaeyoung."

"Bye," she replied. As soon as the call ended, she felt all the adrenaline again, she was more excited than ever. She ran to her door and in a second she was outside Dahyun's room, ready to knock. 

'How silly' Chaeyoung thought stopping herself. Dahyun was not there. Even if she was, she was not sure her best friend in the whole world would want to hear any of what she had to say. Oh, it hurt. This was the weirdest sensation. 

Don't misunderstand, Chaeyoung was happy, too happy, but she couldn't share this with the only person she wanted to the most. This life thing for sure was testing her. 

Then she got a text.

From Mina
Hey and, Dahyun will come around, don't worry too much

Chaeyoung sighed. She felt tears forming in her eyes.

From Mina
<3 

Oh, but she smiled. 

Chapter Text

Healing.

Both physically and mentally. Mina decided to stop feeling sorry for herself after a few days of crying around, skipping meals, and not going to school.

She had been way too many times like this before. It sucks. She had been sure her reckless year was long gone. She had stopped drinking around at night at the shadiest places, she had stopped skipping classes, and she had stopped all that self-destructive behavior. She knew that.

Last time at Jaeha's party, it was a mistake. She knew better than that. This time, after that day in the diner, it was an epic mistake. No drop of alcohol should ever touch her mouth ever again, she knew that. Everyone at the house knew that. Well, maybe she was not doing as well as she thought to still be having these reactions.

There was only one thing different now. There was this little annoying ray of sunshine that kept promising her stuff. Mina knew she was not alone, the only problem was she had to believe it.

Nayeon had been there for her when she needed it the most, she promised stuff too, but then she left. Mina was not sure if she was willing to go through the same thing again. How could she trust Chaeyoung? Mina was not certain about anything and maybe the simplest choice was to forget about everything. Go on with her senior year, get into a good university, take over the company, and live happily ever after without further trouble. Alone.

But... she couldn't deny the girl had her in shambles, all while also keeping her as part of her rigid schedule. What a chaotic feeling, really. However, it brought her an odd sense of... calm.

Chaeyoung had not left. She kept thinking that. Chaeyoung felt how it was to be judged, the looks, the comments, and after all, she had not left. Instead, she had run to Mina. Hell, the girl even made her mom give her a ride to the big house.

That made Mina think. Was Chaeyoung's mom okay with them being friends for real? Mina couldn't believe that. Her relationship with adults was damaged and the one she had with the helpers at the house, didn't mean much, after all, they got paid to do that.

This whole situation scared Mina and it was becoming more and more unnecessary. For real, what was she even doing? Chaeyoung probably promised stuff that she was not even sure about. Mina couldn't let that get to her.

Oh, but what a difficult thing to ignore. Especially when the girl occupied her every thought. Or the fact that the girl decided to start texting her all the time. Every text put a smile on Mina's face and it was hard to keep ignoring it. Besides, Mina knew Chaeyoung hated texting.

There was only one thing Mina needed to do now: try and keep her head above water. Despite everything, she knew she just needed to keep sane and keep trying every day, letting the self-pity and damage consume her, only brought pain. She didn't want to suffer anymore, she acted as if nothing happened, right? Fake it until you make it.

Back at school, the whispering was not that bad. Either she had got used to it at this point or people were actually busy with tests and worrying about their own lives. Whatever the reason was, she was glad. Because she could quickly stop giving it much thought and started to worry about her own marks and tests. The most thought she could, at least.

Chaeyoung kept making it hard to focus. They even had coffee together at school... not that you could count that as a first date but the silly situation made Mina blush. A date. Chaeyoung had asked for a date but did she even know what that meant?

Mina could not accept, especially keeping in mind the feelings Chaeyoung had for her best friend. Until that call. Oh, what a wonderful call. Yes, Mina was afraid of everything but deep down she was still hopeful, waiting for Chaeyoung to realize... something.

Chaeyoung does not mess with her grammar. Mina hoped that was true because she was only trusting that. That simple interaction over the phone is what she is putting all her trust in now... 'god, what am I doing?'

But in truth, even if she was trying to change, trying to be less reckless or impulsive, Mina had not really changed and right now she only truly needed one thing: Chaeyoung. That girl. The thought of her, her touch, her kisses, her facts even, all of her had been keeping her grounded and functional. It was a mystery, really. But it was real. See, when things seemed to have ended with her, she had lost it, quite badly. So badly she ran to Nayeon, the evil herself, how bad could Mina have felt? Awful. But now? Now there was a light again, she could be happy with her, could she not? Why the hell not?

'fuck this' Was her last thought before crossing the entrance of her house. A familiar muddy black jeep was parked in front of it. According to the handwritten instructions she had received, she was not to open any doors during the date. Of course, she was going to follow them the best she could so she stood and waved awkwardly at the black windows.

She was met quickly with a jumpy Chaeyoung, that had come from the other side of the car, almost tripping.

"Hh— hi— uh, welcome," Chaeyoung breathed out and even opened the door for her. Yes, Mina, wanted to say that there was no need for anyone to open doors for her, she never lets Mr. Jung do it and no one should, actually. But she figured that it might be important or... just part of the schedule for Chaeyoung, so she was going with it for now. Maybe just today. They could sharpen the date rules another time, especially when they decide the course of their relationship.

Oh, the butterflies. 'I just haven't eaten' Mina thought ignoring the weird sensation in her stomach.

There were a few seconds from when Chaeyoung closed the door until she ran to the other side to get in, where Mina breathed out and took in her surroundings. Black was the predominant color, black windows, black seats, black hair. Of course, Momo was behind the steering wheel.

Did that scare Mina? Not really. Just another classmate that hated her guts, no big deal.

Chaeyoung got inside closing the door, she sat at a great distance from Mina, mind saying, this was a big car.

"Hi," Chaeyoung said again not really looking at Mina but smiling.

"Hi," Mina replied smiling back and scooting closer.

"Hi," Momo mimicked with a dreamy voice immediately after the two greetings.

Ah, Mina felt a bit embarrassed, had they sounded so lovey-dovey already? She didn't mean to. It was not a bad thing, though, but... oh, the butterflies.

"Momo!" Chaeyoung complained. "We said no talking."

"Uhhh," Momo shook her head and started to drive down the street. "You said no talking, I said I would drive you— And I'm talking, so."

Chaeyoung nodded in acceptance and scratched her head softly for a second, almost thinking about it. Mina kept observing everything in sight, she noticed the radio was on now but only at a low volume and she noticed a puppy keychain hanging from the rearview mirror.

"Where are we going?" She decided to ask. She had received instructions but nothing else. Actually, you might think she had accepted this date, and then plans were made quickly but no. Chaeyoung took a bit more than a week to notice her about everything, she almost started to think nothing was going to happen.

"I can tell you where you are not going!" Momo said raising her hand. She was quite chatty, Mina had never actually heard her talking this much. She saw how Chaeyoung opened her mouth but closed it and sighed, defeated by Momo talking. "So, you're definitely not going kart racing because it's too dangerous, yeah, we had to scratch that right away."

'Odd' Mina thought. She had not expected Momo to be this talkative, not to anyone but especially not in front of her. It was nice...

"Oh," she answered shortly before Momo kept narrating everything.

"Listen to this one, okay, this one's too funny," Momo started laughing. "Okay, okay, hear this out: She didn't want to go to an escape room because she was afraid of coming off as— too smart!"

Momo's laugh was loud and cute, she was not mocking Chaeyoung, still, Mina turned to look at the girl next to her. Chaeyoung was frowning but she was not complaining and she didn't look uncomfortable.

"Too smart?" Mina asked quietly at her. Chaeyoung returned the look briefly and blushed, then looked down.

"As if—" Momo's laugh faded away. "As if she didn't come off as smarty pants every time she opens her mouth— Okay, and ah! Movie date was not allowed either, but that was because you had said it was a boring first date, and that is true, so yeah, that one was actually a good reason," Momo said and continued after changing a song. "Uh, let's see, what else? Ah! No arcade date because she didn't want to get competitive and ruin things, fair enough, plus that place usually annoys Chaeyoung, so."

Chaeyoung now did seem a bit conflicted, Mina decided to put a hand above her knee, pressuring strong enough and looking for her eyes. Chaeyoung smiled at her and stopped moving her leg up and down.

"Bummer," Mina answered to Momo. "I love a little competition."

It was strange to Mina how Chaeyoung had just kept shut to everything Momo was saying when usually she is quick to complain about these things. She made a mental note to ask about it later.

"... so no bowling date," Momo had started narrating again after a couple of minutes driving them, but Mina had missed it. "No ice skating, no fruit picking, oh! No pottery class 'cause she hates the feeling of wet clay, kinda fair to be honest," Momo nodded. Mina smiled imagining Chaeyoung carefully considering all those date ideas, it was quite charming to picture the girl putting so much effort into this, on her. "... but that made sense too and— okay we are almost here, just let me stop around the corner."

Mina let go of Chaeyoung's knee and looked through the windows. They were not exactly downtown, but near. Mina knew there, it was actually close to Chaeyoung's house, she would have said that they could have met there, but Chaeyoung insisted she'd be picked up as part of the date instructions.

She heard the car pulling up and still wondered where they were going because she knew that street but that was it.

"Okay," Momo turned around. "You're still in time to say no to this and I can drive you back to your fancy mansion."

'cute' Mina thought of the offering. She was getting that being annoying was part of Momo's default, not being mean, just... like a considerate bully, if that existed. She guessed she would have to match her energy and it would be okay, plus, not taking anything she said too seriously.

"No need, I am too curious about this now."

"Don't be too hopeful," Momo turned back to her position. "I didn't vote for this idea but, she does what she wants."

"Thanks, Momo," Chaeyoung said looking at the time on her phone. "Now we have to go." Chaeyoung unfastened her seatbelt and got out of the car, in five seconds she was opening Mina's door.

"Bye," Mina said to Momo. "Thanks for the ride."

Once outside she thanked Chaeyoung too and in a moment, Momo drove down the street. They were left alone by the sidewalk. She missed Chaeyoung's voice.

"I apologize for her," Chaeyoung began. "She was not insulting you, by the way, I learned that with time—When she is, she says so."

"No worries," Mina smiled. Oh, this felt so different, she felt afraid? Nervous? Anxious maybe. She was not sure, she just wanted Chaeyoung closer. "It was kind of nice to hear her, I figure that if she can talk that much in front of me, the idea of me being a bad person is changing."

"Ah, yes," Chaeyoung nodded. "I have to tell you something regarding that but... later, okay?"

"Okay, cute dimples," the loving nickname slipped her mouth, Chaeyoung's dimples were just too cute today... or maybe Mina felt so, "where are we going?"

The day was nice. It was not too sunny outside, nor cloudy. It was not chilly but not too hot either. It was quite perfect actually. Mina wondered if Chaeyoung had had the weather in consideration when planning this date, she probably did.

"Momo described how I considered but scratched many options... well, I decided that it was best if we did something familiar and... just cozy, right?" Chaeyoung seemed hesitant, she waited for Mina's approval before continuing. Mina found it cute, nevertheless, she also wanted to let her know she didn't have to doubt herself like this for her. In Mina's opinion, they could have a bag of chips behind a dumpster and it would be the most amazing date if Chaeyoung was there. For her only.

"Right," she answered. She could give her opinion later, she was not going to mess with Chaeyoung this soon, they had time and she knew the girl needed this to go as she had planned.

Chaeyoung started walking so she walked next to her. It was awkward but Mina knew she just needed to get through this moment, these first steps to get to something better, their usual but improved selves.

Around the corner, Mina finally realized where they were going. Familiar, indeed. She smiled. "Ice cream," she said.

"Yes," Chaeyoung answered. "It's something you like and I do too, plus, as I've learned, you can never go wrong with ice cream."

Chaeyoung's smile made Mina's heart flutter. How? Oh, this was bad. Now, Mina definitely felt two forces in her head, the one saying 'calm down, this can ruin you' and the other saying 'she is an angel' Lucky for Mina, the second one was winning. "You really can't."

The last time they had been there, they only bought some ice cream cones and left. Now they got a nice corner table and waited for someone to get their order. Mina wondered how much of this date was going according to Chaeyoung's plans. She hoped it was okay, she hoped she was enough. For some reason, now that they were alone, negative thoughts were surfacing in Mina's mind.

These thoughts were along the lines of not deserving Chaeyoung, so every time the girl did or said something lovely, Mina adored it and then her mind would bring up the fact that maybe Chaeyoung was too good for someone like her. She just needed to breathe and ignore it.

A kind waitress took their order, Chaeyoung did not let Mina decide on something, they were sharing. So Mina only got to pick two flavors and Chaeyoung did as well.

"No double vanilla this time?" Mina was genuinely surprised.

"No," the girl smiled. "Today is the perfect day to try something slightly different, so you can see I can."

"I know you can, though," Mina explained. She had been meaning to say something like that. "I am super happy and grateful that you have put careful thought into our date, but you have to know that I don't expect you to be different or to... feel pressure to do or be something you don't want."

"Thanks for saying that, but the truth is that..." Chaeyoung doubted and fixed the silverware on top of the table, one large spoon. "With you here... you with me, I feel and I want to be my best, even if it is with things that most people have no issue with—But look, I still got vanilla, just— not double this time."

"Then," Mina smiled softly. "I'm glad you are still half-vanilla."

"Yeah," Chaeyoung said looking at her face.

There were few moments where Chaeyoung would straight up look at her in the eyes, but more and more as they grew closer, definitely more now than in their first talks. Mina was glad the girl had understood what she had meant to say. The sunlight made her face golden and her eyes the most beautiful brown she had ever seen, oh, the butterflies were definitely there. Mina was not going to be able to keep her distance from her for much longer, maybe Chaeyoung had no idea how beautiful and just simply attractive she was.

Mina was not a fan of cheesy romance... at all. But she was 2 for 0 today when their big glass cup of ice cream arrived and she realized she had been staring at Chaeyoung's face for way too long. They both had been staring at each other for way too long or maybe not enough.

Regardless, it was going great. Step by step, Mina felt less nervous, less negative and more... the real her she could be around Chaeyoung. Not more than forty minutes had passed, their ice cream was long gone, but their conversation only improved. As well as the blushing. Mina had forgotten how blunt Chaeyoung could be without even realizing it.

"Tell me about your first kiss," Chaeyoung said happily leaning forward on her seat. Questions. Mina was prepared for questioning because the instructions had warned her. It was cute to see Chaeyoung so interested in her. Plus, this question game was quite... useful. That is an adjective Chaeyoung likes for things to have, for sure.

This last question, though, escaped from the triviality of the past ones. Mina had easily answered her favorite color was blue and its shades, her interest in horror movies, how she loved crafting things, even her favorite season... but, to go from all that to quickly have pictures in her mind of Nayeon's lips against her own, guiding her through that dark night, definitely scared the butterflies in her stomach.

'lie' Was Mina's first thought. Why? She was not even sure. After all, she was talking to Chaeyoung, the girl who knew about her past relationship. Maybe it was the habit in her to hide that. Nevertheless, even if she was talking to Chaeyoung... her first kiss with Nayeon was something so precious to her, something she had never ever shared with anyone before.

Chaeyoung had explained when she started asking questions that it was okay to skip some, she had made it quite clear that there was no need to answer everything. Yet, Mina knew there was no reason to not answer this. Only the silly feeling of protecting Im Nayeon, of keeping their moments for themselves, of forgetting the bad parts... there was definitely no real reason to not tell her about this.

Maybe she had remained in silence for too long because Chaeyoung talked again, "I can tell you about mine."

'oh' Mina's smile came back. 'silly' "Can you really?"

This time it was Chaeyoung turn to blush for a change this afternoon. "Yes," she said. "It was really, really nice."

"You're quite lucky, then," Mina leaned forward supporting her elbows on the table, feeling somehow closer to Chaeyoung, "most people can't say that."

"It was a great kiss," Chaeyoung said with confidence that made Mina's breath change. "I even play it back in my head sometimes."

Okay, the butterflies were definitely there again. Mina was not rejecting them anymore, not again. Today was their day and she just had to allow herself to feel.

"I really like it when you say these things to me." Ah, there, she had said it.

"What things?"

"All of them," Mina tried to explain. "What you think of... everything. Of me. How you feel, how you felt, the things you like and the things you want."

"Sexually?" Chaeyoung asked so naturally.

"W—what? No!" Mina chuckled almost embarrassed. "No, I meant— In general." Mina had no idea why she felt somehow nervous at that question. After all, this time it was not even Chaeyoung's fault to have misunderstood that, because Mina had explained awfully and they in fact had been talking about kissing.

Mina does not feel embarrassed about sex. At all. Probably because she had forced the thought in her head that it was a meaningless action. She knew it didn't have to be, she knew it could be something special and she knew it was the most natural thing ever, still, she forcefully and automatically had the setting of seeing it as nothing more than a biological reaction. Kind of why she had been able to easily give lessons to Chaeyoung, just kissing for educational purposes, of course.

This time, it had caught her off guard. Probably because of where they were and because the last thing she wanted was for Chaeyoung or anyone to think the only reason she was around Chaeyoung was a physical one. Definitely not.

"You have said before that you like how honest I am, but really, I can't not be... most of the time," Chaeyoung scratched her neck slightly and looked troubled for a second. "I do know how to lie, though, or keep a secret you know, of course— It's, it's just that I say what I want and I do not think there is a reason why I shouldn't be honest with you or tell you everything I want to tell you."

Mina felt her cheekbones hurting because of how much she had been smiling at this date. That was it, she wanted it all with Chaeyoung. No. Maybe that was a rushed decision. But she couldn't help but feel that way, Chaeyoung made her heart beat again, quite strongly.

"Then..." Mina said softly as she lifted a pinky finger, offering it to Chaeyoung. "Let's be honest with each other all the time."

"Let's," Chaeyoung raised her finger as well, locking them and the promise was sealed.

That felt good. Refreshing and real. Not to ruin things again in her head but Mina started to overthink again, this date was going amazing, she liked Chaeyoung. A lot. But she was too afraid to ask her if she felt the same. Did she? Oh, that had to be dumb, right? The girl had asked her on a date, of course she did, right? Maybe not.

"...if that's okay with you, of course."

"Sorry?" Mina missed whatever Chaeyoung had started saying again. The young girl smiled at her. Something broke inside Mina. 'god dammit, her smile'

"You're distracted," Chaeyoung said. "It's okay, I get distracted too sometimes."

"No, I'm... it's okay, what did you say?"

"I was saying that we should go now, we still have some light outside and I wanted to walk for a bit, if that's okay with you."

"For sure," Mina smiled and just let stuff happen as she got lost in thought again. Could Chaeyoung feel the change in her interactions? She hoped not. This part of her, she hated. She could be confident, give-a-stranger-kissing-lessons confident, or pretend-she-did-not-care-for-the-approval-of-her-peers confident, but this? Being confident someone wanted to be on a date with her was next level. Mina has second thoughts quite a lot. She had considered this date for a long time and she decided she wanted it, and she did. But she had forgotten this anxious feeling where the word leave kept appearing at the back of her mind. She was not strong enough to face another heartbreak, that was it.

They paid for everything and left the place, Mina moved out of habit just following Chaeyoung. Outside, she felt relieved to have some fresh air.

"Okay, now that we are being honest, that flavor sucked!" Chaeyoung said immediately after they walked out.

Mina laughed at loud taken aback by Chaeyoung's change in attitude. "Oh my god, Chaeyoung! You did not have to eat it  if you didn't like it."

"But I asked for it."

"That's not important, silly."

"Oh, well, you should have told me sooner."

"I didn't know you had hated it!"

"True..."

The last rays of sunshine were present. Mina thought for a second how their soft moments like this had always involved them. They walked leaving more distance in between them than usual. It was almost comical. Mina wanted to get closer but she was not sure if Chaeyoung was doing this on purpose.

"Thanks for this," Mina dared to say after a while of walking in silence. They reached a busy park along a street, filled with people exercising, walking their pets, kids playing, and people walking around like them. Trees had flowers bloomed and the temperature was just right. 

"Thanks for this," Chaeyoung repeated. "I mean— Thank you, you know, for accepting and being here with me."

"Yeah..." Mina wanted to say more. Know more. This feeling, was she the only one feeling this? No way. Right?

As for the cheesy counter, it became 3 to 0 when Mina realized their hands kept brushing as they walked mindlessly getting closer. She was sure that could be something annoying for Chaeyoung. Yet, she resisted the impulse to say something just to push the girl.

Until it did bother her enough to talk. "Can we—" Chaeyoung stopped walking. "Uh... the girls told me we should hold hands."

"Ah, why is that?" Okay, Mina knew she was being a child. Of course she knew, but hearing Chaeyoung explain things made her happy.

"If you ask me, I have no idea why people like to hold hands but then, I guess is one of those things that are socially required and all."

Oh, well, that was not the answer Mina was expecting. It was a good answer, though. "Do you want to hold hands?"

Chaeyoung seemed to think about it for a second, then she answered, "Not really, no." Followed by a scrunch of her nose.

It was kind of hard not to take this personal. Of course, Mina understood why she didn't feel like it, right? Now, the scary thoughts creeped in again. What if Chaeyoung was not sure of this? What even was this? She liked her, didn't she? Could the girl see that now? Was this date not like a romantic date? It was, was it? Mina knew she could just ask. But she didn't.

Usually, she would have said something sarcastic or a joke, but this time she didn't say anything. It was fine. They walked again, in silence. No more brushing of hands.

"There are things... I want to say to you," Chaeyoung said as she slowed down her pace and made her way to sit on a bench next to the path they were following. Mina guessed they were done walking, then. She sat next to Chaeyoung.

Mina was feeling... mad? Annoyed. God, she was not even sure, why did she care so much? Why was she feeling so much, it was a simple, friendly, date. Chaeyoung had not even done anything wrong, had she? 'nothing much right either'

"Things?" She managed to ask through her growing anger.

"Yes, things."

Mina was not sure what else to say, possibly because she was becoming frustrated even if she knew she just had to be honest about her mood or whatever. She remained silent, looking at the people in the near distance, staring at the leaves above their heads, then Chaeyoung's sneakers, then at her face. Chaeyoung looked away but smiled.

Mina was about to ask what was so funny, considering nothing seemed the slightest bit funny to her. But she didn't have to because Chaeyoung decided to explain herself.

"I'm sorry," Chaeyoung chuckled. "I... I know I just said that I think there is no reason why I shouldn't be honest with you and tell you everything I want to say, but—" Chaeyoung looked down and scratched her neck. "Somehow— I— I can't, it's... uh..."

Now, Mina felt silly. She understood now, that Chaeyoung was nervous and the stuttering plus the growing redness of her cheeks could tell her that, as unusual as it was on her. 'oh' Mina thought as the butterflies started to flutter gently around her stomach once again.

Mina sighed almost relieved. "Can I help?"

Chaeyoung didn't say anything. She slowly stopped rubbing her neck and took out her phone. Mina stared at her and realized what was happening followed by the vibration of her own phone. A text.

From Chaeyoung
I hate texting

"I know you do," Mina said once she read the message on her screen.

To Chaeyoung
should i answer here?

Mina quickly typed an answer as she relaxed a bit. This, oddly enough, was comfortable. It was them.

From Chaeyoung
Only if you want to

Chaeyoung turned to look at Mina for a swift moment, evident nervousness on her face. Then typed again.

From Chaeyoung
Well, preferably

To Chaeyoung
fine, then

Chaeyoung looked up and let out a big sigh, then she leaned forward with her elbows supported on her knees and typed like that. Mina could no longer see her face or phone. Just Chaeyoung's backside. Her short growing dark hair fell down the sides of her face. She felt the brief impulse to caress the girl's nape. She didn't.

From Chaeyoung
I do want to hold your hand

Mina stared at her phone screen with a faint smile, hoping for more messages. Hoping for everything Chaeyoung was willing to offer her, even if it was in bits and pieces, she was going to take it all.

From Chaeyoung
But sometimes I won't
even if I want to.
This is weird, I always know how to voice this.

To Chaeyoung
thats okay

The distant noises of people, birds, and just the city in general seemed to have dimmed as well as their voices silenced. Mina could have sworn her own beating heart felt louder.

From Chaeyoung
I guess it's embarrassing

"It's not," Mina said aloud. "Shit, sorry— I mean—"

To Chaeyoung
sorry

From Chaeyoung
Foul-mouthed

Mina huffed humored by the last message. Sure, she used some swear words once in a while, but not foul-mouthed at all, only Chaeyoung had never cursed anything in her life, she was certain.

To Chaeyoung
kiss  it better

Chaeyoung immediately left her position and turned to protest at Mina, opening her mouth and pointing at her but nothing happened. She quickly returned to her previous form. Mina felt proud of the result, a mischievous smile ruled her expression now.

From Chaeyoung
Seriously, now, I mean this

To Chaeyoung
i mean it too

Chaeyoung scratched her head impatiently. 'Okay' Mina thought. She had her fun now serious.

To Chaeyoung
okay okay! i think i understand

From Chaeyoung
I don't think you do
I want to do things and be someone for you
But what if I can't? What if it's not enough? 
Because I do want to do everything for you and
the girls tell me what I should do but I know that,
I know all of that, only sometimes I might find it
difficult and then I can't be the best for you,
Also

Mina put her phone back in her bag and reached for Chaeyoung's hands, putting her hand above the device, making it impossible to keep writing. It had become word vomit but written.

"Cute dimples," Mina said softly.

"Mh," Chaeyoung managed to answer.

"I like you— I really like you." Mina put her hand away. "You. For everything you are and— I'll be more than happy to... treasure all of you that you can offer me."

There was no immediate answer. Mina felt like throwing up. At the back of her head, a voice screaming at her to stop talking nonsense, to take it back, to run away. But she pushed it aside, she meant this, she had to say this.

Just then, Chaeyoung put her phone away and sat straight once again, carefully, she asked, "Even if it's not certain what it is I can offer?"

Mina was impressed by how clear her sentences were now, but that was Chaeyoung. Her usual self.

"I just want you," Mina sighed almost impatiently. She passed her fingers through her hair and closed her eyes for a few seconds.

Chaeyoung turned to her, not reaching her eyes, but looking. Her eyes traveled all over Mina, who felt examined but not uncomfortable. She let her. It felt almost like a kind embrace. A single tear threatened to fall down Mina's cheek. She resisted it.

In the close of an eye, Chaeyoung got up, she was quickly walking away. Mina frowned and got up too. "Chae— Chaeyoung!" She could see the girl still moving, Mina was dumbfounded, she did not even have time to feel insulted, mad, or anything, just started following the girl.

"Son Chaeyoung!" She tried again now that she had run and came up close to the girl. "What the hell?"

Chaeyoung just kept walking, Mina feared forcing her to stop, so she just followed trying to keep the pace. The girl definitely had better resistance than she did. She only kept talking.

"Come on, now, this is not necessary, let's talk."

She could see the girl was walking back. Close to the ice cream shop, down another street. One, two blocks, then she realized.

"Are you going home?" She was breathless by now.

"Really? Come on, stop, text me again, I don't know—"

After a few turns, they were definitely in Chaeyoung's street. The younger girl walked faster.

"Chaeyoung, I won't follow you home!" But she was. "Come on, I will leave now." But she didn't.

Chaeyoung reached the front door, taking her keys out. Mina reached the sidewalk, a few meters separated them. "Chaeyoung, I won't go in."

But Chaeyoung got inside leaving the door open. Mina sighed in frustration and followed, running this time. She hoped no one was there, oh she felt so embarrassed. "Excuse me," she managed to say as she closed the front door and followed Chaeyoung up the stairs. She did not see anyone, maybe they were alone, maybe that was better. What if Chaeyoung needed help? Maybe she could call Dahyun. Or Momo, did she have her number? Oh, Mina was losing it.

"Son Chaeyoung," she whispered loudly fearing someone might be there. She crossed Chaeyoung's room door and sighed loudly. That's when Chaeyoung closed the door and in a second Mina felt the girl holding her, reaching for her neck, pulling her down to kiss her.

Chaeyoung clung desperately to Mina's body, kissing her quite messily. Three things invaded Mina's mind. One: She liked this, a lot. Two: She hated how much she was willing to ignore just to keep feeling this. Three: What the hell?

As fast as it started, it ended. Chaeyoung backed away breathing heavily and using her hands to keep distance between them.

"Wait—"

"Oh," Mina breathed out sarcastically but out of breath as well, "so you still talk."

"No, no, wait—" Chaeyoung insisted. "I'm sorry, I— I like you, too. So, so much."

The words messed with Mina's stomach. "Chaeyoung..."

"No, really, I like you so, so much you have no idea!" Chaeyoung lowered her hands and spoke calmly now. "I wanted to kiss you."

"So you left me."

"I didn't leave you."

"You did."

"You followed me."

"But, Chaeyoung—" Mina sighed loudly and stopped for a moment. "You have to tell me first, before leaving like that, you could have asked, right?"

Chaeyoung looked down and played with her fingers. "I guess."

Mina felt so frustrated. She liked this girl so much the only thing she wanted to do now was to grab her cheeks and kiss her silly annoying face again.

"Is this what you had planned?"

"No," Chaeyoung said softly. "Not at all, I wanted to tell you things there at the park but I couldn't— That had never happened before."

"I see."

"Are you mad?"

"I am not mad," Mina replied taking a step closer. "Although I should be, I will forgive you this time, okay?"

"Thank you."

"You made a mistake just now, though."

At the mention of that, Chaeyoung raised her head with a frown. "When?"

Mina took another step and finally caught Chaeyoung's eyes. Her frown was still present, it made Mina feel like squishing all of Chaeyoung's face. Her heart racing fast. "I thought I had taught you well."

Chaeyoung breathed in and out shakily. Maybe they were too close. "Why?"

"You..." Mina whispered against Chaeyoung's lips, who opened her mouth almost afraid. "You are supposed to let me know when you are going to kiss me." Mina used a hand to lift Chaeyoung's chin as she usually did and close the space between them kissing her lips gently and firmly.

Chaeyoung clung to her neck once again, Mina felt as if the girl almost fell. This time they kissed the right way. Slow, fast, then slow again, a new kiss. Not a lesson kiss.

"Sorry," Chaeyoung said once they separated. "I forgot."

"I still liked it."

"I like you," Chaeyoung said again. "I do."

"I... believe you," Mina said. She did. After all, finally, she did. How could she not? Maybe it was difficult and frightening and different, but she believed her. She was anxious most of the time and her mind played her tricks but right now she could see that this was real.

Maybe doing this was going to mess with her mind in more ways than she could imagine, and she was going to have to acquire more patience than the one she already had, but she wanted all of it. If it meant having Chaeyoung by her side, she was ready.

"I will hold your hand," Chaeyoung whispered looking down, a bit sorry again. Maybe recalling what she had been trying to explain before.

"I know you will," Mina said. Messy. Their first date was a whole mess, but it happened. That's all Mina cared about. This was happening and even if she could see better now how difficult it could get with Chaeyoung sometimes, she wanted every bit of it. "I know, cute dimples."

Mina promised that night, that she was not letting this go.

Chapter Text

Sweat.

Chaeyoung missed that feeling. Don't ask her how, but she had skipped a few training sessions. She missed the rough feeling. The pressure, the almost angry state. Hitting the bag harder than the last punch was refreshing and made her happy.

Skipping on her feet, she threw the last punches, smiling she ended with a happy growl-like scream and took out her gloves. She looked for her bottle and took a big gulp of water. She left the bottle on the ground and used her fingers to throw her hair back, given the sweat, it easily stayed back offering a clear face.

"Wanna go, now?" Chaeyoung asked and approached the couch.

"Mhh, not just yet, next time maybe," Mina said smiling. She tapped next to her on the couch. "Rest a bit."

Chaeyoung, eagerly to be close to her girl, immediately smiled at the request and threw herself on the couch, legs spread and head back. She could feel the tiredness now. She was not going to admit it but maybe, just maybe, she had put in extra effort just because Mina was there.

Mina accommodated her position on the couch so she was facing exhausted Chaeyoung. "Your hair looks sexy pushed back like that."

"Sexy?" Chaeyoung asked mindlessly.

"Mh hm," Mina nodded. She took the opportunity to move a hand and reach for Chaeyoung's hair, playing with it lovingly. The younger girl had her eyes closed.

"Well, I am sexy."

Mina snorted a laugh and stopped her movements. "Silly."

Chaeyoung didn't answer anything. She was enjoying this moment. Plus, she was sexy, she knew that, or at least talking from the definition of sexy, she could be that, physically sexy. She thought for a second, that maybe she should have trained in her usual clothes and not the loose T-shirt she has shown Mina. Just maybe.

She felt quite relaxed there. A nice silence had formed and she loved those. She couldn't see but she could feel Mina staring at her. The senior then resumed her caresses, not in her hair, but her ear. Holding it with her thumb and index finger, Chaeyoung found it annoyingly pleasant. So she frowned for a second, but let her.

"Is it not good?" Mina asked softly still playing with Chaeyoung's ear.

Chaeyoung did not feel like talking, she felt her voice could break the atmosphere. Instead, she offered her head closer, tilting it to the side. Mina understood.

Chaeyoung felt so relaxed, it barely annoyed her when Mina's fingers started caressing her neck. Even if for a second she wished the contact there was as strong as the one on her ear, she let her. And after a few seconds, she was loving it. Mina's fingers went from her ear to her neck, now indeed with more pressure, like a massage. For a second, she remembered how much she enjoys when Mina pulls from her tie and opens her blouse, the anticipation is what makes her nervous and then tingly.

Now, it was relaxing more than anything. She was tired and this felt great. Until it stopped. The door leading to the first floor opened, Mina removed her hand so fast that Chaeyoung frowned at the action. Was there a problem?

Trotting steps stopped mid-stairs followed by a "Chaeyoung, mom says that—" Dahyun caught a glimpse of them and turned back up the stairs. "Sorry." The door closed immediately after. Chaeyoung sighed loudly.

"Is she still being weird?"

"Yeah, weird, a stranger, unreasonable," Chaeyoung answered. "I hate it."

"Have you tried talking to her?"

"The girls say I shouldn't, they said I should wait for her to come to me."

"Well, that's... partially true," Mina hesitated. "You know you don't have to do everything the girls say, right?"

"No, I know," Chaeyoung nodded and got up. "But it's usually better when I do."

"That might be true, yeah," Mina smiled at her and got up too.

"Well, let's go, she probably meant to say that dinner's ready."

"Okay," Mina nodded and collected her things. "I'll get going, then."

"Oh, no, you can stay," Chaeyoung explained as if it was obvious.

"I don't think that's a good idea, with everything you know..." Mina signaled for the stairs referring to Dahyun. It might be awkward, yes. But Chaeyoung was mad at her. Besides, there was no other reason why she shouldn't stay, Dahyun would have to deal with it on her own.

"No," Chaeyoung said stronger than usual. "You're my girl, you're staying."

Mina opened her mouth but didn't say anything. Her cheeks turned slightly pink and only muttered a soft, "Okay."

Chaeyoung wondered if she had said something wrong or if Mina got mad, given her facial expression, but she figured everything was fine once she stayed for dinner and later, her goodbye kiss was longer than ever.

***

You might wonder, how is it that Chaeyoung knows she is ready for a relationship. Easy. And she figured this on her own. No movie, no questions. She feels really proud of it too.

Her routine. She figured that if Mina checked all the boxes accompanying her in her routine then that's it. Because for Chaeyoung, her schedule is everything, so if she can accommodate Mina and her routine, she is totally ready. Perfect, right?

It was going great, besides. Mina was really checking all the boxes, with her family, training, studying... yes. It was going well. A Sunday milkshake with the girls was yet to be checked but on schedule and school... well, that was different.

The school had always been common ground. So she was not sure how to measure it. They had always been there just not together. It bothered Chaeyoung, just slightly. The past days, since their date, they had only been friendly at school. She was not a fan of public demonstrations of affection so it was okay, but there was a big difference from no PDA to no nothing, right? She couldn't be sure and asking the girls, for the moment, was not an option just because she was trying to do this on her own.

Chaeyoung had the feeling this behavior had to do with the rumors and the whole Nayeon issue, that made her blood boil. Why? She was not sure. Yes, she wanted to protect Mina and defend her to the best of her abilities, but she knew there was no need to get mad at Student Body President Im Nayeon but— oh, she was. And she had to do something about it. Chaeyoung never was one to stay still.

That is how she found herself staying, once again, seated after the council meeting ended. The moment Nayeon realized what was happening once again, her expression changed.

"Not this— let's talk later," she said quickly to Jeongyeon waiting by the door and pointed at her to close the door. "What, Chaeyoung?"

"You know what, I want your apology and your honesty."

Nayeon laughed, evident frustration on her face. "We already discussed this, I won't do a thing."

"That's settled, then, you'll get what's coming," Chaeyoung said nonchalantly and made a motion to get up.

"No, okay, wait!" Nayeon pressured her to sit again.

Chaeyoung crossed her arms, waiting. She was mad, and that made it easier to talk like this and show this attitude, but she wouldn't take the credit, she was just good at imitating and Angelo had sent her the best vengeance movies. She thanked him for that.

"You'll do it, then?"

Nayeon seemed hesitant for a moment, she bit her lip and messed with her loose hair, her cheeks were quite red. Chaeyoung felt almost sorry until Nayeon started chuckling and shook her head.

"No," she insisted. "You're bluffing, kid, yes," Nayeon nodded, now apparently feeling smarter. " 'cause that's what you are, a kid! You think you can intimidate me? Oh, it is very kind of you to be fighting Mina's battles, but believe me when I say this: She does not care. Not for you, not for anything, not even herself— And why are you even doing this? Are you two together? I don't think so, everyone knows she is just taking advantage of your little crush and fervent devotion, apparently. You guys don't even hold hands."

"Take that back." Forget the movies, this was Chaeyoung talking. Rage was about to be the only feeling inside her.

"Or what? You know, I have the whole school on my side, no one would ever believe you, so why put all this effort? Go home, kid."

Okay, now Chaeyoung was biting the inside of her cheeks and felt her fists clenching. Nevertheless, she remembered what she had to do, not what anyone who lets her feelings govern would. Ultimatum. "You have until prom night." She spat bitterly and left before she could start pretending Im Nayeon was her punching bag.

She had not expected less, Nayeon refusing, yes. She had prepared to give an ultimatum, yes. But the unnecessary comments got in her head and started to echo.

And echo. And distort. And suddenly Chaeyoung couldn't help but wonder, what if Mina was embarrassed of her? Was that why nothing changed at school? What if Mina thought she was a kid? Oh, that did not go well for Chaeyoung.

'you guys don't even hold hands'

'you're a kid'

'she does not care'

Funny enough, one thing she had always admired about President Im Nayeon: Her way with words.

***

Sunday morning. Important day. Not as typical as most Sundays but similar. She had to get ready, and most importantly, get her friends ready. She was exhausted only from thinking about it.

To Momo
What time are you coming?

She did not get an immediate reply. She called.

"H—hello?"

"Ah, you were sleeping." Chaeyoung talked while moving around in her room, she was folding her recently ironed clothes.

"Goddamnit, Chaeyoung—" Annoying phone sounds made her move the device away from her ear. "It's 8 in the morning! On a Sunday! Of course I was sleeping and I'll continue to do so, goodbye."

Momo hung up immediately after that. Chaeyoung thought that maybe, just maybe, her friend had a point. But she needed to be prepared, if anything, she was a bit more nervous than on her first date. There was so much to clarify and delimit.

From Momo
dumbass

'oh, well' Chaeyoung thought. Deserved.

From Momo
2pm

Okay, that made her feel better. That meant she had almost two hours to shape their friends before the date.

She finished with the clothes and it was time to erase her board, not before checking important dates written or something. Everything seemed to be okay. Now, what she needed. Topics to delimit. Safe topics versus No-no topics.

"Okay, easy," Chaeyoung talked to no one as she scribbled the two titles.

No-no Topics

1. Wealth

"Number one for sure, highlighted..."

2. Family
3. School*

"School will definitely come up..."

4. Past relationships!!

"That is important," Chaeyoung mumbled to herself biting the back of her marker. Now, for safe topics, that was broad. They could talk about many things, so Chaeyoung only added four suggestions so it would look even.

Safe Topics

1. Crafts
2. Candy
3. Movies
4. The weather?

"Yes, okay, the weather is always a must in a conversation," Chaeyoung nodded happy with the list. She felt just fine, time was ticking and everything seemed okay. Her room was clean, her laundry was ready, and she watered her cactus before going downstairs and preparing breakfast. It was too early to prepare for everyone so it was just for her.

She had a light breakfast and a protein smoothie, she was training a bit before showering. Some rope skipping, some pull-ups, stretching, no boxing for today. When she was done done, it was only midday.

At the house, her parents had realized something was wrong between Dahyun and her, although they did not know why. She was glad they had not asked, she was not sure how to explain it and it could be quite embarrassing.

When lunch was being prepared she explained she would rather not have it today, since she was eating later with the girls.

"That's okay, honey," her mother said. "Are you going as well?" She directed her question to a quiet Dahyun who was washing some vegetables.

"Oh, uhm, no, I— have homework," Dahyun mumbled quite focused on her task.

Chaeyoung felt uncomfortable. Why did it have to be this way? No reason, for sure. "You can come if you change your mind," she said trying to sound nice, she meant it. And she strongly wished Dahyun changed her mind.

Dahyun mumbled a reply that didn't catch Chaeyoung's ear and gave a faint smile. It was all so stupid, that Chaeyoung turned to leave.

She stopped when her mom asked, "Is Mina going?"

"Yes, why?"

"Oh, nothing, just, give her my regards," her mother smiled. Chaeyoung nodded and smiled too, the thought of Mina cheered her. That was the important thing today, the date with Mina and her friends.

So she was completely focused on that by the time Momo and Tzuyu arrived at her house. She guided them directly to her room and wasted no time explaining her board.

"Now, this one," Chaeyoung said pointing at her board. "I am guessing school will come up because it is our common space, but please do not mention any rumors or what I have told you about it."

"Is that it?" Momo asked as she was trying to put on one of Chaeyoung's extra pair of gloves.

"Yes, mainly," Chaeyoung nodded. "Did you get it?"

"Of course," Momo said forgetting the glove. "Ask her about her exes and eat the rich, am I right?" She said the last thing offering a high five to Tzuyu.

"Your family is loaded." Tzuyu ignored the high five rolling her eyes at Momo but laughing anyway.

"Yeah, well, no problem if we talk about money then," she said as she got up. "I'll go get some juice, be right back."

Momo left closing the door behind her again. Chaeyoung was not given the chance to protest at her so she did it with Tzuyu.

"She can't!"

"Relax," Tzuyu sighed sitting down on Chaeyoung's bed. "She won't say anything bad, she is kidding."

"Is she?" Chaeyoung couldn't be sure.

"I mean," Tzuyu tilted her head thinking, "she probably will say something bad but not bad bad, you know? Just— she talks more than she should but it will be fine! You know we are cool, it will be okay."

Chaeyoung scratched her head, that was not relaxing. She grabbed the glove Momo had used and put it back in its place. Suddenly, she wished Dahyun would go. She always knows how to scold Momo for stuff like this, Tzuyu only laughs. 'that's enabling it' Chaeyoung thought feeling more nervous.

"Chaeng," Tzuyu called. "I mean it."

"Don't enable it, then."

"Ena—" Tzuyu stopped probably realizing it was better to just agree with her friend. "Okay, I won't."

"Good," Chaeyoung nodded. She felt better but she still played with her fingers and recited all the events for next week in her head until it was time to go.

The smell of burgers and fries invaded her nose. She used to hate it when the restaurant had just opened. The noise was alright, but the smells sometimes were too much. Smells always are a big deal to Chaeyoung. With time she got used to it, and now it all seems familiar and comfortable, plus she enjoys the compilation of 70s and 80s music that is always playing and the restrooms are clean all the time.

Their usual booth was waiting for them, Chaeyoung had grown fond of it. She sat at her usual place and felt the nervousness immediately after sitting down. It was not itchy or like a heavy-weight kind of nerve, but bubbly and ticklish. Did that make sense? It did for Chaeyoung.

"Good," Momo announced. "We made it." She was sitting in front of Chaeyoung, next to Tzuyu, those were the usual places, but the booths were big enough for more people, sometimes Chaeyoung would fit between Angelo and Dahyun. Their presence missing was like a whisper at the back of Chaeyoung's mind.

"We should wait before ordering," Tzuyu smiled and received the menu from one of the usual waiters. "Thank you," she said. He was nice, Chaeyoung liked all the waiters enough, even if sometimes they would try to get Tzuyu's number.

"I'll have the usual but yes," Momo nodded. "We should wait."

As they waited, the girls started to watch some video on Momo's phone, Chaeyoung took out one by one the straws from their usual place in a container at the border of the table and started to create a tower. Angelo had taught her that, it was fun. It had taken some minutes to convince her that the straws were well covered in their individual paper packaging to not be unhygienic, but after that, it became fun.

"Hi!" Suddenly a breeze of air was felt, Mina had run to their table. She fixed her hair as usual and regained her breath. "Sorry, I'm late."

Momo frowned. "It's only three minutes past four." Tzuyu laughed and shook her head realizing what was happening immediately.

"Exactly," Mina said. Then realized Momo was not saying it as a bad thing. "Wait... she does not make you be precisely on time?"

"I tried," Chaeyoung said as she got up. "They wouldn't change their ways, but at least we are on time when they drive me places."

"So, you are telling me all I had to was ignore you?"

"Well, yes, but— I like you punctual," Chaeyoung said and just then realized her girl was there and she had not received her properly. "Hi."

"Hi," Mina said smiling and noticing Chaeyoung as well. Bubbly and ticklish for sure.

"See?" Momo said to Tzuyu. "I told you."

"Hi!" Tzuyu said loudly breaking their bubble. She laughed when both distracted girls looked embarrassed and sat down.

Mina cleared her throat and offered another greeting, "Uh, hello."

"Hi," Tzuyu replied kindly ending the awkward exchange. "We were about to order, so, we will have the same as always, you can take a look at this." She handed her the menu and called for one of the waiters.

"What do you usually have?"

"Momo has the peanut butter milkshake with bacon cheese fries, Tzuyu has the strawberry milkshake with chicken nuggets, and I have vanilla milkshake with cheese fries—cheese on the side." Chaeyoung smiled feeling smart and started to put back the straws except for the ones to be used.

"Huh," Mina nodded. She looked at the menu but had the slight impression that whatever she picked was going to be criticize by a certain someone. "I'll have... uh..."

"Darling, just pick whatever you want," Momo said noticing her predicament. "She will judge you anyway."

"Yes, I will," Chaeyoung said. She couldn't understand how anyone would want cheese on top.

Mina smiled and looked down a bit embarrassed. Momo had such character. She liked it, though. "I'll have the cookies and cream milkshake and some regular fries."

"Oh, that is just vanilla with rocks in it," Chaeyoung scrunched her nose and shook her head. There it was. The girls laughed warmly, used to these comments, Mina laughed too, feeling genuinely happy about being there with them.

Chaeyoung relaxed. The encounter was going fine. Her worries were currently safely settled at the back of her mind, which was good. Also, what was even greater: Mina's hand holding her thigh firmly from time to time under the table. It was new and it made her feel even more bubbly.

Besides when Tzuyu blatantly said, "So, candy, huh?"  Their conversation was going fine. Chaeyoung liked that her talk had worked. 'lists are always efficient' And Mina kept checking the boxes, oh she was the one.

"If it makes you feel better, I didn't get a lesson, I have just seen her train," Mina tried to reassure a whiny Tzuyu discussing the topic of why her friend kept refusing to teach her again.

"That is still a lot, that's privilege! You're so lucky, you have to know that, she is the best."

"I thought we said no privilege talk— Ouch!" Momo frowned and turned to Tzuyu who had smacked her arm.

"Not enabling it," Tzuyu gave a thumbs up at Chaeyoung.

"Dear God," Chaeyoung looked down. She knows her friends are a pair of clowns but she was hoping for a calm afternoon. Mina seemed confused but amused.

She ignored it. "She is the best," she said after a sip of milkshake. "How come you're not in any class or tournaments?" She looked at Chaeyoung smiling. She felt curiosity, she had always wanted to ask.

Chaeyoung was going to answer, but the girls answered instead, almost at the same time.

"She believes the idea of punching someone is stupid." Tzuyu was correct.

"She only likes to punch inanimate objects." Momo as well.

But it was more than that, "I don't like to fight other people even if it's a sport, I just box as exercise, I like it that way." She had tried to be in a class when she was much younger, her parents took her, it was not good and Chaeyoung prefers to forget about it. She has her own space now.

"Uh, I get it," Mina nodded. It was only a question, and Chaeyoung was okay with answering. But that triggered something else, shifting the course of their previous conversation. That's how Chaeyoung realized she had forgotten an important topic for the no-no list: Herself.

"... and that's how I ended up getting my library card at the public library just so she could get more books!" Tzuyu seemed entertained talking to Mina.

"I remember," Momo nodded with a smile. She had finished her fries and had leaned back on the booth, her legs were up in the seat, relaxed. "You're kind to accept—I didn't, she does not need more books."

"Isn't the individual limit like 40?" Mina seemed quite interested in the conversation as well.

"Exactly!" Tzuyu answered. "Why did she need more? But, well, now I have a library card."

Chaeyoung felt slightly uncomfortable by being the center of the conversation. She should have guessed if the connection between her friends and Mina was her.

"Once I got daily spam calls for a month just because she was mad at me and gave my number to some random call center," Momo said funnily, yet Chaeyoung felt called out.

"That's mean," Mina laughed and caressed her thigh turning to look at her. "You're a little devil." Her smile was warm, as well as her touch. It should feel nice but Chaeyoung didn't feel it that way.

She ignored the comment and she ignored the uncomfortable sensation. Mina didn't seem to notice anything, she turned back to the conversation immediately. Sounds were becoming annoying, was the music louder? It didn't seem alright. And it smelled like someone had burned something in the kitchen. Bad smells always got the best of her. Now, things were not bubbly and ticklish, it was itchy and heavy. 

The conversation seemed distant and she needed Mina to either remove her hand or press tighter. The problem was that she couldn't ask for any of it at that moment. Usually, Chaeyoung knows how to ask for help or make requests to avoid discomfort. Now, she found herself already past that point. Besides, without Dahyun there, who always knows how to calm her, the best she could do was try and self-regulate.

She tried to ignore the smells surrounding her. That was important. She lowered her head and tried to get the smell of fresh linen in her clothes. As it reached her nose slightly and interrupted, she tried to focus on something organized: This morning's routine. 'Focus...start with a 5-10 minute warm-up by doing 3 minutes of rope skipping, which improves footwork and coordination. Workout circuit...  3 sets of push-ups 20 reps, 3 sets of pull-ups 12 reps. Some shadow boxing for 2 rounds of 3 minutes, concentrating on footwork, speed, and technique... 3 sets of plank to push-ups 10 reps for arm strength and core stability. Dumbbell shoulder presses... controlled shoulder movement. 5-minute cool-down, stretching the shoulders, arms, and back to enhance flex—'

"Chaeng?"

She breathed in and out one last time before looking up. Her friends were staring, she knew those worried looks all too well.

"You okay, kid?" Momo asked frowning.

'kid' Chaeyoung repeated in her head. 'you're a kid' Nayeon's voice echoed.

"I'm—" She blurted too loud and felt Mina leaving her leg. This time, she wanted her hand, so she quickly grabbed it back and pressed it against her leg. "Not a kid." She had her jaw clenched.

It was frustrating, but somehow, it helped to avoid the other uncomfortable situation. She felt happy that she had been able to calm down on her own, without Dahyun, without anyone. But now, she felt the same anger she felt talking to Nayeon.

"Oh," Momo nodded slowly, unaware of how serious this was for Chaeyoung. "Okay, since when?"

"Since I have a girlfriend."

Mina choked on her milkshake and coughed a few times before regaining composure.

She saw how Momo seemed entertained. Tzuyu, on the other hand, shook her head looking at her disapprovingly. "Oh, Chaeng," she mumbled.

"Congratulations, buddy!" Momo clapped.  "I have one question, though."

"Okay," Chaeyoung listened attentively. She was happy to answer. Mina had checked all the boxes after all, right? She was perfect. What else was necessary?

"Does this girl... know that she is your girlfriend?"

'Know that— oh. Well, yes... didn't she?'  Yet, when she turned to look at Mina, it was evident she had missed something.

'Huh'

Chapter Text

It is inevitable. People change.

They do not change completely, though. That's impossible. Or at least that's what Park Jihyo believes. She has seen it. Yes, she sees it every day. No one really pays attention anymore but she does. If you take a look at her, your first thought maybe won't be how perceptive she appears to be. Not at all, with her dark red hair, never wearing the proper school uniform, and late assignments. Chaeyoung would definitely misjudge her in the blink of an eye.

Nevertheless, she would be mistaken. Yes, Jihyo may have a few bad habits, like skipping classes, underage drinking, smoking in the locker room, and probably, fooling around too much with her girlfriend— even if some won't classify that as bad—but, she is not all that. She is indeed quite perceptive and smart. Late in assignments, yes, but perfectly made.

Jihyo watches people, that is how she knows they don't quite change. Not completely. You know, like the essence thing some philosophers talk about. She has been very interested in her philosophy classes lately. What actually makes a person? What is the essence of someone? Jihyo has no idea about her own essence but she sure knows about the rest.

"Feel like skipping this period?"

"Of course, why else would we be here?" Jihyo smiled and allowed her girlfriend to sit on her lap, receiving her with a loving head kiss. Sana always smelled very sweet.

Sana smiled and reached for Jihyo's hoodie pockets, patting them lightly. She smiled when she got what she was looking for and pulled out a cigarette placing it softly in between Jihyo's lips, using her fingers to trace them more than needed. Right after, she reached between her school skirt and blouse, taking out a lighter.

It was customary for the pink-headed girl to light her girlfriend's cigarettes. She found it hot, in a way, as cliche as it may appear. Especially when they spent time at the lockers. The thing about this locker room was that it was the perfect place to not get caught. Fancy school means fancy courts. Football field, tennis, baseball, you name it. Naturally, there was more than one locker room. This perfect locker room was old, one of the first ones ever made since it was for the football team. Contrary as you may think, it is close to the main building, and the trip from the classrooms up to the football pitch is not long.

The structure of the school goes something like: Parking lot, school building, green area, football field, and tennis courts. For other sports, the field was on another piece of land owned by the school. The locker rooms were always open and accessible, but this one was barely used, since the new one was better, bigger, and closer to everything.

"Thank you, baby," Jihyo smiled and blew out a soft cloud of smoke angling away from Sana.

"Of course." Sana stood up in a swift motion. She skipped around the room to stretch for a while. The smell of cleaning products lingered faintly. "Are we going out later?"

"Sure, you can stay the night and we can finally watch that movie, what was it called? The—"

"Someone's coming!" Sana's soft voice raised at her from near the door, she had felt steps.

Jihyo sighed and put out the barely burned cigarette against her shoe, then waved her left hand lamely dispersing the smoke. Sana worried too much, Jihyo worried too little.

Sana got next to her again. She felt steps now entering the room. A row of lockers blocked the view from the entrance but in a second they saw Im Nayeon raising her eyebrows at them.

"I can still smell it, you know?"

Seeing her, Jihyo scoffed and smiled again realizing there was no danger. She regretted the waste. "Hey."

"Come on," Nayeon sighed in disappointment. "I'll have to tell on you next time."

"Sure," Jihyo chuckled amused. "You know my dad would do whatever it takes to make an accusation like that go away, right? Plus, all the money he gives to this school—"

"Man, fucking rich kids," Sana interrupted her girlfriend covering her mouth with her hands from behind her. She left a kiss against her hair to make the interruption more lovingly.

"Fine, then I'll tell on Sana."

Sana smiled mischievously and approached Nayeon with her hands behind her back. "You wouldn't," she pouted. A grin formed on Jihyo's face as soon as she noticed her girlfriend's shenanigan. She laid back on the wooden bench supporting her back on the metal structure, enjoying the show. "Right, Nayeonnie?" Sana asked tiptoeing to approach the rigid girl's face. Sana surrounded her in an embrace from the side, almost hanging like a cute tiny koala. Devilish baby koala. "Mh?" she asked for confirmation once again, this time so close to Nayeon's ear, that Sana was sure she had sent shivers down her spine.

Don't make the wrong impression, Jihyo does not enjoy watching her girlfriend being that sweet with anyone, but this was Nayeon and she would trust that girl with her life. Besides, annoying Nayeon was so much fun. Especially when it was about...pretty girls.

"I—" Nayeon lifted her hands to protect herself as she finally reacted back to her senses. "I won't, I won't."

"Good," Sana smiled contentedly and left a quick peck against Nayeon's cheek before releasing her and walking to stand behind Jihyo's back once again, holding her shoulders. Jihyo patted one of the hands on her shoulder as a good job gesture.

"What brings you here anyway?" Jihyo asked now more seriously, she had the impression something was not okay.

"Just— Getting some air."

"Something on your mind?"

Nayeon hesitated for a second. Jihyo was always expecting to catch glimpses of her friend, her real friend, not the new downgraded fake version of her friend. It was brief. She could see the preoccupation but in a second it was gone. "Not really, just— Prom stuff, of course."

"Right," Jihyo replied disappointed but not surprised.

"Listen," Nayeon said more in a hurry now. "I wasn't here okay?"

"Sure," Jihyo nodded. "Never."

Nayeon, who had turned to leave, stopped in her tracks. "What's that supposed to mean?" She looked at Jihyo menacingly.

"Nothing," Jihyo frowned. "We got you." Nayeon sighed loudly and just left, quick steps were heard walking away.

"She okay?" Sana asked now sitting next to Jihyo.

"I don't think so."

"Is it maybe... girl-related?" Sana was intrigued, almost afraid to ask.

Jihyo sighed and made a face. "Worse, baby," she said. "I think it's Mina related."

"Mina?" Sana seemed surprised. "That has not been a problem for so long, how could it be?"

"I thought it was nothing..." Jihyo started to confess. "You know my guy? At the convenience store, the shady one."

"Yeah, yeah, the one who sells you buzz," Sana hurried but frowned. She supported her girlfriend's bad habits but she disliked her recklessness sometimes. Being rich surely does not protect you from everything, at least that was what Sana kept trying to teach her. "What about it?"

"You know back then when everything went down and all, we told him to not sell to Mina, he helped but the other day— a few weeks ago he called me and said that he had forgotten and that I probably should know that Mina bought a few bottles."

"Oh."

"Yeah... but I thought it was fine, she should be able to have some once in a while, right?"

"No... baby, that's not how addiction works."

"Right," Jihyo nodded. "I know, okay, I just didn't think anything would happen but I don't know, maybe she did something, maybe nothing happened but regardless— Now Nayeon is acting weird and she won't tell me anything I don't know. Maybe it's not related."

"Maybe not," Sana nodded wondering. "But Mina seems better than ever, right? Isn't she dating that cute junior?"

"Cute?" Jihyo raised one eyebrow accusing her girlfriend. Sana could directly seduce Nayeon in front of her but she drew the line at cute. "Cute?"

"Baby!" Sana protested and pinched her cheeks. "Chaeyoungie is super cute! You know how she is always calling us by our full names and how she explains everything at the meetings, plus she gets annoyed when I'm late but doesn't complain and she gets so flustered when she sees us kiss or something, she is adorable!"

"Well, true," Jihyo smiled remembering. "She makes you feel important."

"Silly," Sana said stealing a quick kiss. "But are they dating, then?"

"Seems like it... but I'd bet not even they could give you an answer." Jihyo got the feeling that as strict and organized as Chaeyoung could be, dating Mina could not be that easy. "If they are... I just hope she makes Mina feel important too."

Jihyo sighed. She missed her friends and Sana knew that. She missed them as well, it was just different. Jihyo, Mina, and Nayeon were childhood friends. Sana came along around the beginning of high school. She was one of the few students with a full scholarship.

Sana is not crazy rich at all, she is just smart enough, as well as charming. She does not get to mess up like Jihyo. Skipping this period? She had a free period. She constantly tries to give her perspective, more of a normal, down-to-earth perspective to her girlfriend. Jihyo is smart but she is just a spoiled rich child as most people at that school. She loves her nonetheless. They... oddly bring out the best of each other.

"Sure she does," Sana said. "I'll ask her."

Jihyo chuckled. "She will panic talking to you."

"I know, I love it."

"Of course you do."

"Yes! But it'll be fun, we are almost friends already, you know? She glares at me when I'm late... I smiled warmly, we are basically besties now."

"Okay!" Jihyo laughed. Sana was the light of her life. Not a day goes by where she doesn't laugh over something she says or does. Jihyo's biggest fear? Losing her. Not having the real Nayeon is bad enough, she is lucky she has Sana. "She is still there, you know?"

"Who?" Sana asked playing with Jihyo's fingers.

"Nayeon, I can see her in glimpses."

"Mhh," Sana nodded. She knew this topic was difficult for Jihyo. She had lost her two friends but not really, it was complicated as she had explained, even if Sana didn't truly think it had to be that difficult. She supported her still.

"The essence of a thing is what it is said to be in respect of itself."

Now, that confused Sana. "Excuse me, what?" she laughed softly, taken aback by the sudden powerful quote.

"What?" Jihyo frowned and felt slightly embarrassed. "I know Aristotle."

"You indeed have been loving that philosophy class, huh?" Sana asked tilting her head and getting closer to her girlfriend. "Enlighten me, then."

"It means that... people at their core, they don't really change, no matter how different they may appear on the surface."

Sana closed the space and brought Jihyo against her chest, hugging her and kissing her head. She had stood by Jihyo all this time, of course. And she will continue to do so... but maybe it was time for her to meddle, right? The way things had developed was complete chaos and more chaos. Nayeon might have wanted to protect herself but changing completely and suffering every day does not accomplish anything, and Mina had to just accept that? Maybe, but she didn't deserve any of the lies, rumors, bad looks, and the forever stigma. 'and my poor baby... torn between her two friends' Sana always regretted how they had abandoned Mina as well, they didn't want to support whatever Nayeon came up with, but by remaining silent, they spoke either way, right? It was definitely time to meddle.

***

The very next day, by the end of classes, Sana gathered her things and walked down the hallway with one objective in mind. She knew where Chaeyoung's locker was located more or less and to her luck, she caught the girl just in time as she closed the door.

"Hi!" Sana smiled as a greeting. Chaeyoung seemed startled, with reason, given Sana's face had just appeared in front of her. "Sorry."

Chaeyoung nodded and cleared her throat. "Minatozaki Sana, what can I do for you?"

"Can I ask you a personal question?" Yes, straight to the point. Sana had the impression she would prefer that. Besides, she could already see her blushing.

"You can, but I guess you are asking if you may?"

Sana breathed a laugh, of course, she should have been careful. "Sure, yes, may I?"

Chaeyoung scratched her neck for a second but then tried to smile at Sana. "Yes," she answered.

"Are you and Mina dating?"

Sana, who had thought this to be a simple yes or no question, was surprised when Chaeyoung suddenly looked at her face with her eyes wide and sparkly.

"Oh," Chaeyoung said and tapped her pockets taking out her phone. "Okay, could you ask again and this time give concrete evidence of why would you think that?" She asked as she opened her notes app. "And please, elaborate."

A few seconds passed where Sana just smiled with her brows furrowed until she realized it was a serious request. "Ah— oh, uhm, well...." she started, "I've seen you guys close, yes. Close here at school and there are some rumors—"

"Not rumors, that's not concrete evidence." Chaeyoung frowned. "You can't assume anything based on rumors."

"Okay, but, I am not," Sana complained, she was not losing this argument. "Rumors have, after all, some truth to it, like stereotypes. And I am not assuming anything, I just heard stuff and decided to ask a reliable source, that source being you."

"Oh," Chaeyoung scratched her head again and blocked her phone. "That's smart."

"Thank you." Sana fixed her hair and felt satisfied. "Now, are you?"

"Walk with me," Chaeyoung demanded after she looked at the time on her screen.

Sana obeyed, expecting an answer. She was getting one no matter what.

"Dating..." Chaeyoung considered the word carefully. "We are dating."

Sana gave a tiny jump and started walking backward, looking at Chaeyoung. "You are! That's great, do tell."

"But..."

"Oh no, what?" There was something that indicated Chaeyoung was not so sure if trusting her, of course. She had no motive to discuss all this with her, but Sana hoped she emanated the needed trustworthiness.

Chaeyoung stopped walking, and Sana almost tripped stopping as well. "When I mentioned she was my girlfriend, she didn't seem to like that."

"Uhm," Sana nodded and wondered. "What do you mean by mentioned?"

"I said that I had a girlfriend."

"Did you... say that to her?"

"To my friends, but she was there and—"

"Chaeyoung... Did you ask her to be your girlfriend before saying that?" Now Sana felt slightly sorry but warm. This girl was so cute, for real. A treasure. She felt like helping.

"My friends asked the same, I guess I made a mistake."

"Yes, but it's not too late, is it?"

"How can I know that?"

"Mhh... does she reply to your texts?"

"Yes."

"Okay, then it's all good!"

Chaeyoung smiled for a second and then tilted her head at her. "Did you ask Park Jihyo to be your girlfriend?"

Sana felt her cheeks warm up at the question. "As a matter of fact, I did."

"And she said yes, right?" Chaeyoung started walking again, and Sana just hurried to keep up.

"Yes," Sana said reminiscing about that moment in their lives. It had been quite amazing.

"Then, do you think you could help me?"

"I thought you'd never ask, yes, of course, we will help you!"

"We?"

"Jihyo and I."

"Oh... okay. I guess you two know about this, yes," Chaeyoung nodded to herself and then stopped walking again. "So, you're welcome."

"Don't you mean thank you?"

"Yes, thanks for agreeing to help me out, but look." Chaeyoung pointed at the door. "We've arrived at today's meeting and you're not late this time," she said nonchalantly and walked through the door leaving Sana behind, confused, impressed, and entertained, but most importantly excited to know more. 'see we are definitely friends already'

***

"Come on," Sana said reassuring her girlfriend. "We'll just talk to her."

"Why not at school?" Jihyo complained as she walked following Sana who was just a couple of meters behind Chaeyoung.

"Something about time and her schedule, I don't know, baby, but it'll be fine, we can go out later, mh?"

"Fine," Jihyo whined rolling her eyes. They both caught up with Chaeyoung then. The trip from the school to her house was not long at all, Chaeyoung seemed to enjoy it, even. They arrived to a well-kept neighborhood with stylish but smaller houses, the homes had neat lawns and pretty plants, giving the area a classy look without being too fancy. The streets had trees and there were no gates, giving a welcoming feeling.

It was a good side of town, given it was close to the school and everything, but it was not the luxury side of town where Jihyo and Nayeon lived. Sana liked this neighborhood, it seemed perfect for a family. She couldn't help but smile imagining it. It's not the same feeling she gets when she's at Jihyo's. Even entering Chaeyoung's home felt different, warm, and cozy. At Jihyo's is all white and untouchable.

"Welcome," Chaeyoung said scratching her neck. "You can leave your shoes there and your backpacks here." She pointed to both places and then disappeared for a moment. Jihyo and Sana left her things and walked inside, coming across the living room.

"Cozy," Jihyo mumbled observing around. She approached a wooden desk and grabbed a random trophy. They all seemed to be Chaeyoung's. "Is she on scholarship as well?"

Sana walked closer to take a look feeling curious too. Science, math, and debate trophies. "Debate isn't hers," she noticed.

"That's Dahyun's," Chaeyoung appeared again. "I'm not on scholarship," she answered as well.

"Kim Dahyun," Jihyo nodded acknowledging her. "Are you family?"

"We are best friends, we live together." Chaeyoung seemed sad for a second and looked down. But then she shook her head and talked normally again. "She lives here and their parents pay for school, it's an arrangement, anyway—come, now." She seemed glad to end the topic fast. Sana thought she was eager to discuss their motive for the visit as well as she was, so she followed gladly pulling Jihyo with her.

They entered what appeared to be Chaeyoung's room. Sana found it interesting how much Chaeyoung was willing to share with them... she seemed reserved and private, but she was being quite open. She hoped she was not like that with everyone, she could perceive a certain gullibility from Chaeyoung's behavior. Of course, Sana didn't want to trick her, she genuinely wanted to help, but she couldn't help but wonder if someone else with bad intentions would be able to get this close to her so easily.

"White, nice," Jihyo said observing around Chaeyoung's room.

"White is clean," Chaeyoung nodded.

Jihyo smiled and helped herself to sit on a desk chair. She still wondered what exactly were they doing there, how could they help? But if Sana was sure about this, then so was her.

"Great!" Sana clapped and smiled widely. Chaeyoung sat on her bed and looked attentively at Sana. "We can definitely help you, Chaeyoungie, right, baby?"

"Sure, we graduated girlfriend school."

"That is a thing?" Chaeyoung frowned at her.

"It's not," Sana said immediately and gave a look to Jihyo. "Let's keep it real, okay?" She didn't want to scold Jihyo, she simply didn't want to confuse Chaeyoung. She was not sure why it was about her but Sana was sure she could believe everything they were about to tell her, she could explain later to Jihyo.

"Figured," Chaeyoung mumbled. "How did you ask her to be your girlfriend, then?"

"Easy," Sana started. She noticed how Chaeyoung crossed her legs and opened her notes app from before. As she was standing with Chaeyoung on one side and Jihyo on the other, she felt as if she was giving a talk. "Baking."

"Elaborate," Chaeyoung frowned looking interested.

"I love baking," she said. "And this beautiful lady loves my baking." She turned to smile at Jihyo who nodded encouragingly. "So I made cupcakes with letters on them, asking."

"Those were delicious!"

"So, you're saying—"

"I'm saying—And you should write this down," Sana pointed at her phone. Chaeyoung seemed to appreciate that. "If you're gonna ask her, you need to do something special for her, or both of you... something meaningful or sweet. It can be simple, but it needs to be thoughtful."

"You need to make her feel important and special," Jihyo added making Chaeyoung pay attention to her, but in a second her face changed completely from looking interested in their advice to terrified.

Sana frowned and followed her gaze, turning around only to find Jihyo about to light a cigarette. "Baby," she reprimanded. She stole the lighter from her hands and stored it again in between her skirt and blouse. Chaeyoung seemed relieved.

"Special, okay," Chaeyoung nodded. "I can do that."

"Do you really want to?" Jihyo asked now leaning forward on her seat.

"What do you mean?"

"I mean... are you guys actually dating? For real?"

Sana frowned. She was not sure what Jihyo was inferring but she let her, she could ask if she was curious. After all, she had dragged her there.

"We are," Chaeyoung seemed to blush slightly.

"Is she... is she okay?"

'huh' Sana realized now where Jihyo was coming from, she was worried.

"In which aspects?"

"Life. Is she happy? Do you make her smile? Does she tell you stuff? Are you fully out? Has she been drunk?" Jihyio blurted a bit fast.

Chaeyoung seemed to think about it for a while. "She tells me stuff... I don't know for certain if she is happy but I know I want her to be, with me. Drunk? Just once. Out from where by the way?"

Oh, Sana loved this girl. She laughed softly and walked to hold Jihyo's shoulders. "See? That sounds good," she said to Jihyo. "She genuinely likes her."

"I do," Chaeyoung meddled. "No, I do, I— It was not easy to tell, but I do. I told her."

"Chaeyoung," Jihyo asked. "Do you know about any rumors regarding Mina?"

"All lies," Chaeyoung said blatantly.

"You... you are not being forced—"

"Do not finish that sentence," Chaeyoung got up. "If that's what you believe, I would like to ask you to leave now, please."

"Uh—" Sana hurrided. "No, no, Chaeyoung, she didn't mean to—"

"I don't care what she meant, I won't have you guys talking trash about my girl."

"I'm sorry," Jihyo said. "I didn't mean to assume anything, I just wanted to make sure everything is okay."

"It is!" Chaeyoung seemed frustrated now. "Those stupid rumors from the past are not true, okay? And she didn't make me do anything, we had— well, we had— uhm, we just got to know each other and liked each other, okay?" She seemed embarrassed by the end of the outburst. 'odd' Sana thought, but she was more curious now. She believed the junior.

"We know," Jihyo said calmly. She knew she had messed up before with her wording.

"You know?" That seemed to catch Chaeyoung's attention.

"We know the past rumors are fake, we uh—we know about Nayeon."

Oh, Sana was impressed. She didn't imagine Jihyo was ever going to tell on Nayeon just like that, up until this point she never had. Maybe she has felt the same reliability she felt in Chaeyoung. In just their short interaction, you could tell she cared about Mina deeply and that she was not a liar.

"Baby—" Sana herself had not even planned on bringing Nayeon to all of this, of course not, she just wanted to help and make sure Mina was doing okay. "Are you sure?"

Jihyo nodded slowly. "I think she knows, don't you, Chaeyoung?

For some reason, Sana felt a bit scared they would straight out start fighting. She knew her Jihyo was not afraid of much and she always carried around that sassy upfront attitude. She was sitting in that chair like she owned the place, and as hot as Sana might find that, she was not there to make things worse.

"Mina told me," Chaeyoung said getting closer. See? Fight. Sana wouldn't picture Chaeyoung as someone ready to fight anyone, but she could tell the girl was getting mad by the second and the fact she had caught a glimpse of a pair of boxing gloves, was not reassuring. "How do you know?"

"We were friends," Jihyo said calmly. Sana was not sure if she wanted to be honest and help the situation or make Chaeyoung madder. Maybe by doing one, the other one was bound to happen. "Before they broke up."

It was visible that Chaeyoung's breathing changed. Her fists clenched and her jaw tightened as she kept staring at Jihyo. "And you left her?"

"Chaeyoungie, we—"

"You were friends and you just left her? Friends don't do that." Yes, Sana knew friends don't do that, they had no excuse. She couldn't see what was Jihyo's aim by telling her all this.

"It's complicated," Jihyo said. "It's not like we said anything—"

"Exactly! Why didn't you? Say something, deny something! You stood by Nayeon, at the council and everything!"

"Now that's a fallacy!" Sana pointed out. "You're part of the council too, it doesn't mean anything."

Chaeyoung seemed troubled by that comment. A lot. She walked from side to side once and scratched her head faster than the other times. "True," she said. "I should leave the council." It was amazing how quickly she had made up her mind. Sana hoped she didn't mean it.

"What?" Jihyo stood up. "No, Chaeyoung, listen, I know we are not friends but we do get along at the meetings and everything, we do a great job you can't leave because of that— I mean, you don't have to."

"Yeah, you shouldn't leave." Sana worried about Chaeyoung's state, she seemed anxious, maybe they should go for now.

"We fucked up, okay? Back then... I didn't know what to do and now it's complicated as well but I didn't mean for anything bad to happen, I'm sorry." Jihyo was honest.

"It's not me who you should be apologizing to," Chaeyoung answered still mad, but not as she looked a minute ago.

"I know," Jihyo nodded. "That's why we need your help."

"You do?" Chaeyoung asked frowning. At the same time, Sana thought 'we do?' because she was just as surprised as the junior.

"Girlfriend school is not a thing, but we can make it a thing, you know? We can help you and advise you... like counseling," Jihyo said and offered her hand to Sana. "Right, baby?" She made a face asking for confirmation.

Sana had no idea what she intended to do, but she was going to follow along either way. "Of course," she smiled. Besides, that was her intention all along, to help Chaeyoung with this. Not the whole telling on Nayeon and discussing their past but regardless. "We have two years of experience."

"That is a good amount of time," Chaeyoung mumbled. She seemed to have relaxed. She got distracted by this, you could tell she wanted and valued good advice. Sana noticed before at school when Chaeyoung had called her smart that their conversation took a good turn.

"All we ask in return is your help," Jihyo said and waved her hand in front of Chaeyoung to get her attention again. "You have to set us up with Mina."

"What? No, I can't do that," Chaeyoung answered focused again, frowning and ready to drop the topic at once. "She should agree to a meeting and I can't lie to her."

"You don't have to lie, just hide a few things, like a surprise party."

"Hate those," Chaeyoung scrunched her nose. Sana was not a fan of Jihyo trying to convince the girl like that, but they could talk about it later.

"She won't listen to me, then how could I apologize?" Jihyo explained. "Listen, we will go now, you can think about it, just— please, consider it."

Jihyo left the room in a hurry. Sana, although surprised by all this, used the moment to clarify things for Chaeyoung.

"Chaeng..." she said. "We want to make things better now. We can help you and we need to apologize."

"I get that."

"Think about it, okay?" She kept it simple because she wanted to talk to Jihyo and ask what exactly had happened. "Oh, and stop drowning your cactus," Sana said pointing at the cactus by the window.

"I am not drowning my cactus," Chaeyoung frowned and approached it.

"Look," Sana said pointing a tiny part at the bottom. "See that color? That's what too much water does."

Chaeyoung seemed amazed. She looked at the cactus and then at Sana for a second. "You are quite smart," she complimented her again, making Sana smile proudly, that should definitely work in her favor now.

"Of course," Sana winked.

"I like that," Chaeyoung nodded. 'bingo' Sana thought. "I will consider your offer."

"Thank you!" Sana said in a high-pitched voice. She felt like hugging the girl, but maybe not. So, she resisted the impulse and said goodbye before leaving the room and eventually the house. Overall, it went great. Now, she needed to interrogate her girlfriend.

The only problem is that Jihyo did not want to talk after that. They continued the rest of their day as usual but with a silent Jihyo and a worried Sana. It was not until late at night, in Jihyo's bedroom, after they had eaten delivery and watched a trending romcom, that Sana insisted.

"So..." she started testing the waters. When she only received silence as an answer she used her feet to poke Jihyo's arm. They were resting on top of Jihyo's king-size bed with their heads on opposite ends of it. As soon as they had got there, they changed their school uniforms to more comfortable clothes. Sana usually wore one of Jihyo's oversized shirts and Jihyo put on some shorts and loose old shirt. The lights were off, but the curtains were open, allowing the moon and street light to illuminate the room slightly. "We should talk now."

Jihyo growled and sat on the bed for a second. She reached the pack of cigarettes by her nightstand table, her own purple lighter, and lit her first smoke of the night throwing her body once again against the bed releasing a stream of smoke that lazily circled the room. "Okay," she sighed.

It was a bit late for a school night, Sana was tired but she had to have this talk. "I... I thought we just wanted to make sure how Mina was doing through Chaeyoung."

"Yeah..." Jihyo said not elaborating more."

"Baby, I mean, that we were only going to ask her stuff. And what about Nayeon? We have never told anyone about that."

"Well," Jihyo sighed loudly. "I could tell she already knew, and if Mina told her about that, it means we can trust her. It also means she cares."

"Right..." Sana nodded to herself. "But asking for her help—"

"She will help us, she is kind by nature, I can tell. Even if it's hard for her to lie to Mina I know she will want to help us."

"Okay, but—" Sana stopped for a second, Jihyo was answering she didn't want to mess that up by getting frustrated. She could understand they had to apologize but why bother Chaeyoung when they could try and talk with Mina anytime. Was Jihyo scared? Insecure about it? "Why ask for her help?"

"It will facilitate things. She won't believe us if we try on our own, you know how it was in the past... she's not changed, just like Nayeon," Jihyo chuckled bitterly for a second. "I bet she still won't want to hear us, I bet she is still all proud and independent— even if it's just, you know, armor or whatever."

Sana considered that for a minute, it was true. In the past, they tried to approach Mina and it didn't work. But it was all happening so quickly and terribly that Sana could understand the need for space and the feeling of betrayal. Jihyo, on the other hand, took it personally. Time passed and things just happened.

Maybe Jihyo had a point but the one question remained, "Why now?"

"Because..." Jihyo started but took a few seconds to answer. Sana could see the smoke dancing around the roof, it appeared and disappeared. "We are running out of time."

Ah, yes. Sana had her suspicions, but of course, she couldn't be certain. Sometimes her girlfriend gets so lost in her thoughts it is a struggle to keep up. She had noticed how it had been happening these last weeks. Especially whenever someone mentioned something related to graduation and their next steps.

Leaving her position, Sana sighed and accommodated her head on Jihyo's chest, who received her gently with one arm, the other carefully extended outside the bed. "Talk to me."

"It's ending, we will leave this place in no time and no one seems to care."

"They care, baby, I care... I know it's scary and unknown."

"We always talked about it you know? Graduating together... prom and all. When we were kids." Sana cuddled closer to try and comfort her. She didn't answer to let her talk. "I bet you remember it was Mina the one who encouraged Nayeon to become school president one day. She was always encouraging her to do her best..." Jihyo was so lost in thought reminiscing, then she laughed softly. "I was always a mess..."

"Don't say that... you simply have different personalities, you wanted to have more fun, that's all." Although Sana understood what Jihyo meant. Nayeon and Mina, especially Nayeon worried more about school and doing the right thing and all. Jihyo couldn't care less about any of it, she just did what she had to do.

"I know deep down she still blames me for Mina's drinking and all."

"What? No, baby, you have nothing to do with that." Sana lifted her body and frowned down at Jihyo.

"I didn't help either. Back then I thought it was nothing, not at first, I helped and enabled it— you know we used to hang out late at night, and god, I introduced her to so much—"

"Okay, come on," Sana interrupted her, otherwise she would lose her mind with those thoughts. Did she have them regularly? "Baby," Sana said seriously. "Listen to me, it is not your fault. You couldn't know what was happening in her head, you were being a friend. You couldn't know better back then, not even now. We are still practically kids, you know? All we can do now is our best."

"But—"

"No buts," Sana insisted. "She got better, we all helped. If you wanna blame someone, blame Nayeon, okay? She is the one that left her and us and just decided to break her heart and separate all of us."

Silence. Sana had never said something like that. She might have thought about it, but she didn't mean it. She just said it. Why? Frustration, maybe. She didn't want Jihyo to feel guilty about anything.

"You don't mean that," Jihyo said softly after a while. She was not asking, she simply knew.

"I don't," Sana sighed and cuddled her again. "Let's not lose our minds over this, what's done is done, I told you we can only do our best now, and that's what we'll do."

"Okay."

Sana knew Jihyo would let her have the last word. Sana knew Jihyo was still thinking about it all and probably still feeling guilty. But at least they had talked about it and they were on the same page. At least now, Sana knew what was going on inside Jihyo's mind and she had an idea of how to help. Besides, she had won Chaeyoung's attention, which was a big step, they were on a good road.

"Come on," Sana suddenly interrupted the quiet and sat on the bed.

"What?" Jihyo seemed confused.

Sana with the best of her agility, moved sitting on top of Jihyo, with her knees on each side of her hips. She looked at her smiling for a second and then reached for the almost consumed cigarette in her hand, putting it out on the ashtray on the floor. She moved back again, placed all her long hair to the side, and leaned, this time to rest on top of Jihyo. "Let's think of something else," she said sweetly before leaving a couple of kisses against her girlfriend's neck.

"Mhh," Jihyo smiled and Sana could feel the vibration of a soft laugh. "You know... girlfriend school is not a thing but I am certain you would graduate with honors."

"I know," Sana said looking up at Jihyo's eyes. "You too."

Sana saw how Jihyo smiled but the smile didn't reach her eyes. She struggled to lift her head and left a gentle kiss against her head. Sana appreciated the kiss. But she disliked how negatively Jihyo perceived herself all the time.

'if you could see yourself with my eyes, you'd graduate with honors too' Sana thought. But this time, she kept it to herself. Jihyo will not believe her and there was no need to insist any further for now. Besides, she knew what Jihyo would prefer. So she kept leaving kisses and distracted her the way Jihyo would appreciate.

Sana hoped her kisses were enough to show her how much she loved her.

Jihyo wished Sana stayed by her side forever.

Chapter Text

Once or twice, she has heard that phrase before.

"Oh my God, Chaeyoung, what did you do?" Momo asked as she entered the living room of her friend's house.

It was not only that there were several pieces of paper gathered on the center table, the whiteboard from her room in the middle, or the pile of books scattered on the ground. If you're friends with Chaeyoung, call it a Tuesday. No, the problem for Momo was the two new guests sitting there as if they were all friends. Momo has no love for any of her senior classmates, she is barely coming around for Mina. Now this?

"Momoring," Sana cheered and got up to approach her. Momo immediately exited the room, probably leaving for the kitchen. Chaeyoung knows she usually gets herself something to drink whenever she is at her house. Sana followed, making Chaeyoung slightly nervous about her schedule.

"Okay," she directed at them raising her voice. "That is fine, I just need everyone here in two minutes!"

Chaeyoung knew Momo disliked hanging out with her own classmates, but she figured Sana couldn't be that bad since they danced together sometimes. Momo is popular and beautiful and everyone seems to like her, she is the one who denies the attention and selects her friends thoroughly. Chaeyoung can appreciate that. Maybe, just maybe she could have warned her about the newcomers but then... she probably would have skipped the reunion, and she values her opinion.

Once they got back, with a smiley Sana and an irritated Momo holding a glass of orange juice, Chaeyoung checked her phone and everything was on schedule. She could start.

"Okay, so I gathered you all here today—"

"Oh, so is no one going to stop this?" Jihyo asked surprised by the actions taking place. That is to say; no one interfering.

"You can't stop it," Tzuyu answered. "It is easier to get through with it." This knowledge, of course, had been acquired with time.

"Aha, thank you," Chaeyoung acknowledged Tzuyu's answer and kept explaining after frowning at Jihyo for her unnecessary interruption. "I gathered you all here for an important task. I want to ask Mina to be my girlfriend and it has to be perfect, therefore, this impromptu focus group."

"Ugh, fine," Momo sighed heavily and sat down on one individual couch. She kept sipping from her orange juice.

"I need different perspectives," Chaeyoung kept explaining. "That is why I asked you guys to come," she addressed Tzuyu and Momo, "friends' perspectives; Minatozaki Sana and Park Jihyo, couple perspective; and—"

"Right," Momo interrupted again as if remembering. "What is he doing here?"

"Angelo," Chaeyoung said. "Male perspective."

"Why do you need a male perspective?" Tzuyu frowned entertained.

"He happens to give good advice," Chaeyoung answered nodding in approval at Angelo.

He smiled and looked at her friends. "I happen to give good advice," he shrugged.

Momo stuck out her tongue at him and Tzuyu rolled her eyes. They got along pretty well, regardless of the situation with Dahyun at the moment.

"I need you all to take one of these," Chaeyoung handed everyone a sheet of paper she had prepared. "Then, I will give you a moment to answer the first question there."

Everyone examined the sheet of paper then at each other probably wondering what to do and questioning why was this happening at all. Chaeyoung turned to her board and wrote the same question printed on the paper.

1. What do you think is the best way for Son Chaeyoung to ask Myoui Mina to be her girlfriend  officially ? Exemplify.

Chaeyoung put emphasis highlighting the officially part.

"Damn," Momo talked to no one in particular. "Do you mind spelling?"

"I'll stop you after three minutes..." Chaeyoung ignored Momo and checked her phone. "Okay... start."

Everyone took their time to stare at the paper or anything else, really, except for Sana who immediately put her head down and got to work happily.

As expected after three exact minutes, Chaeyoung stopped everything. "Time," she said. "I'll collect your answers."

She gathered the sheets of paper one by one and smiled contently. This was important for her and that is why she needed this care. Not just internet research. not just movies or books, but her friends' perspectives. She trusted this group could provide her with a valid answer given they knew the context and had key background information.

"We will go like this," she pointed from Momo to Angelo, since they were seated by the two ends of the group scattered across the Son's living room. "Let's see..." Now, Chaeyoung considered she had great group control, it was boasting her ego, oh how she loved control. Only the start was not good. "Momo, here says: Just ask her. I know I have to ask, the question is how... this is why your grades are low!" She shook her head disapprovingly and left the paper aside.

"You don't need more, I mean it," Momo tried to explain her answer but Chaeyoung ignored her. She sighed heavily and flipped the papers.

"Fine, let's start from this side then." She took Angelo's answer and read it aloud. "3d printed chocolate jigsaw puzzle... heart-shaped chocolate..." Chaeyoung slightly scratched her head reading Angelo's list. "Bouquet of chocolate...flowers?"

Among all the girl's giggles, Angelo noticed the confusion in Chaeyoung's voice. "Chocolate works," he nodded eagerly. 

"Of course chocolate works with Dahyun," Momo said entertained mocking him and explaining to Chaeyoung at the same time. "Chocolate is not it."

"Exactly," Sana jumped supporting Momo's statement. "Guys think all girls love chocolate and flowers, that's not true."

"You do love chocolate and flowers," Jihyo frowned at her girlfriend.

"That's not the point!" Sana pouted and frowned at her.

"I'm confused," Chaeyoung stated honestly. "So, no chocolate?"

"Yes choco—" Angelo stopped mid-protest and jumped from the couch.

"Oh, hey," Dahyun said greeting everyone stopping by the entrance of the room. She had no idea that this meeting was taking place, Chaeyoung registered her surprise, but she didn't give it relevance as she was not supposed to. Dahyun received zero greetings back as she didn't give the time enough, turning back from where she had come from immediately.

"W—wait— hey," Angelo hurried across the room, tripping on Chaeyoung's books. "Sorry, Chaeng," he said turning around briefly, in a moment he was gone.

"And then there were..." Momo stopped for a second pointing around the room to count. "Four."

"Five," Tzuyu corrected immediately.

"Five," Momo nodded. Chaeyoung rubbed her forehead in stress. This was not going as smoothly as she had expected. Couldn't they understand this was a serious matter?

"Fine," she said. "No chocolate, then." She turned to the whiteboard and wrote:

Momo: X
Angelo: X

"Me next!" Sana nodded. She indeed was next according to their positions, so Chaeyoung took her answer, hoping to find something useful. "Cute, isn't it?"

Sana kept her big smile, hoping for Chaeyoung's reaction. "A drawing?"

"A perfect drawing."

"This is not-" But then, Chaeyoung had not specified how to give the answer, once again, Sana had proven herself smarter. Damn. She observed it. The drawing was sloppy but clear. "They are ice skating"

"Yes! See, you should take her in a perfect date," Sana said. "Perfect means thrilling, it has to be heart-racing, dangerous, difficult, or something."

"Why?" On their first date, Chaeyoung immediately turned down a dangerous idea because it could end badly. She was going to avoid accidents at all costs.

"The shared thrill can create a stronger emotional bond! You will get her heart beating faster and her palms to sweat, maybe. Your brain will associate the symptoms with attraction, it's biology."

"Biology," Chaeyoung mumbled. Oh, that is true. How could she not have thought about that? It's simple. It had a perfect biological component, she knew about that. "Misattribution of arousal."

"There you go," Sana smiled and leaned back on her seat contented.

Chaeyoung smiled, and she finally got a decent answer. More than decent. She turned to her board and wrote

Sana: Misattribution of arousal, thrilling date.

"Does that mean we are done?" Momo asked hopefully.

"Of course not," Chaeyoung answered. "This is important, I don't know how I can stress that enough for you, I need every opinion I can get."

"She understands, Chaeng, she is in a mood, just keep going," Tzuyu explained to her from behind Momo, where she positioned and massaged Momo's shoulders for a moment.

Chaeyoung nodded. The girls would usually explain to her whenever she should not discuss with Momo, but most of the time the senior would mess with her, she had learned that, and as a consequence, she had learned to answer back and take it lightly. But sometimes it was different, the girls would explain this by saying Momo was in a mood and she should probably ignore her and not take anything she says seriously or answer back since it may be pointless.

"I'll read yours, then," Chaeyoung replied to Tzuyu. She took her answer and read aloud. Looking at it, Tzuyu's was the only complete answer at the moment, a simple paragraph, well structured. "In my opinion, the best way for Chaeyoung to ask Mina to officially be her girlfriend is to go on a nice date and ask her after. This is a common yet ideal way to ask for such a thing. Preferably, you could share a nice fancy dinner. Maybe some Italian cuisine. Classic is better."

"This is why you are single," Momo said amused.

"My hands are too close to your neck," Tzuyu answered menacingly.

"Kinky," Momo replied not minding her friend's threat.

"You're idiotic today," Tzuyu said leaving Momo's shoulder and walking to the other side of the room. Sana tapped next to her on her seat as she moved to one side to offer space. Tzuyu just sat on the floor.

Chaeyoung couldn't tell if this was a friendly argument or not. She frowned and took her phone out to quickly write down a reminder to ask Tzuyu about it later. She had to write those things because she was not good at... caring. Well, she did care. But sometimes she couldn't perceive something was wrong so her friends had advised her to always ask. She couldn't interrupt her mission now, so she wrote it just in case she forgot later.

She turned to her board and wrote.

Tzuyu: Classic fancy Italian dinner.

"That's good," Chaeyoung answered. "I like breadsticks, and classics are always good, thank you, Tzuyu."

"Mina really loves pizza," Sana commented as she fidgeted with one of her hair locks.

"Oh, do you know if she has trouble with some food?" Chaeyoung appreciated the intel. She knew they shared similar tastes in candies but that was about it.

"She is not a picky eater, I don't remember her having trouble with any food," Sana answered thinking about it.

"Just liquids," Jihyo mumbled to which Sana frowned at her.

"What?" Chaeyoung asked wondering if she had heard alright, it had been no more than a whisper. Which liquids? Chaeyoung hated strawberry milk.

"Nothing, lovebird, sit down," Jihyo answered at the same time she got up and walked to the board where Chaeyoung stood in confusion.

"What is happening?"

"It's my turn, isn't it?" Jihyo raised her brows at her waiting for an answer. Sure, it was her turn but there was no need for her to stand up or for Chaeyoung to sit down, right? That is what Chaeyoung thought, but apparently, no.

In her confusion, she decided to see Jihyo's answer. "It's empty."

"Yep," Jihyo nodded unbothered.

"You were supposed to answer," Chaeyoung complained. "Sana," she whined at her asking for support, Chaeyoung was not becoming a fan of Jihyo's attitude, it was super confusing. How could they be together? Sana was too smart for this, according to Chaeyoung.

"Come on," Jihyo said. "I'll give you my answer."

Dumbfounded, Chaeyoung just sat in the space Jihyo had left and stared at her actions. Jihyo took the marker and wrote.

Jihyo:

"Okay, so you just need two things," Jihyo started. Everyone seemed expectant. Chaeyoung figured that everything was fine as long as she did not try to smoke inside again. "How do you wanna make her feel and how do you feel."

Jihyo: Her feelings, your feelings.

"Whether you decide to do on the date or not, even if you don't plan a date, it does not matter more than this," Jihyo kept explaining and managed to have Chaeyoung's undivided attention. After all, she had asked for help from them the other day, and even if Jihyo had asked something difficult in return, this information seemed valuable. If Jihyo and Sana decided to charge for their wisdom, Chaeyoung would have to figure it out later. "First, answer me: What do you want to make her feel?"

"Uhm..."

"One minute, let's go," Jihyo snapped her fingers and pressured.

'huh' Chaeyoung thought. 'so this is what is like on the other side' Okay, she could take a pop-up test. No biggie. Jihyo looked so sure about this, maybe Chaeyoung had misjudged her.

Sana seemed to be melting at her girlfriend's performance, playing more intensively with her hair locks, while everyone waited for Chaeyoung's answer.

"If you say something like butterflies or some—"

"Shh," Jihyo hushed Momo's remark in a second signaling with her index finger. Tzuyu grinned satisfied someone had shut her up. For a while at least. Momo bit her tongue and looked away.

'Butterflies?' Chaeyoung thought. That's silly'

"Thirty seconds."

Oh. "What I want to make her feel..." Chaeyoung started, "It's safe." She knew the answer, she just wanted to explain it better. "Happy, important, and... mine."

The girls giggled at the last part of the answer. "Come on now," Jihyo said to stop it but giggling too. "That is a good sentiment. Okay! Then you have to tell her that, give her reasons, be honest and sincere about how you feel, she's gotta know that, now..."

Jihyo: Her feelings,  your  feelings.

"What does she make you feel? You might not have to tell her everything but at least you have to know it. You need to have your reasons and feelings clear to ask her such a question, it can't be lightly decided."

Chaeyoung nodded. Of course, she could understand that. It was not lightly decided. Maybe she had realized her feelings late and abruptly but she was sure of them. Mina made her feel so many things. From frustration to complete chaos to calmness and peace. She felt light and heavy around Mina. She felt happy and happier. She could feel her stomach flipping and her heart threatening to burst and oh, she could feel her. But Chaeyoung wanted to say something else. Above all. Something that has resonated with her from day one. "She makes me feel normal," Chaeyoung said.

This time, no one giggled. Momo and Tzuyu smiled weakly and lovingly at her. Sana and Jihyo stared attentively. The atmosphere of the room changed dramatically. In a good way. This felt too personal to ignore it or laugh about it.

"She makes you feel normal?"

Chaeyoung went rigid and turned around. "Dub," The nickname left her lips. She cursed inside her head. It was the surprise that had produced that, she was not supposed to be nice to her.

Dahyun, once again, was standing by the entrance of the room, with Angelo behind who waved and pointed at Dahyun erratically as he smiled. This time, she entered and walked past everyone to get close to Chaeyoung, who was sitting on a single armchair where Jihyo had been. "I'm sorry, Chaeng," she said.

"Oh," Chaeyoung answered in surprise. She had not expected this. Not today, especially not now. She couldn't deny it, her heart felt lighter hearing this.

"I know, I know," Dahyun said. "It's unexpected, but... if it's okay with you, do you think we can talk normally again and discuss it later? I am really sorry and I hate that I'm losing... this," she pointed around the room lamenting. If you had been in there enough, you could expect a snarky comment from Momo after that sentence, but she kept quiet.

"Uh, yeah," Chaeyoung nodded, still a bit surprised.

"I'll hug you now," Dahyun announced, to which Chaeyoung made a face but let her without trouble. After all, she liked Dahyun's hugs and she had missed her. A lot.

"Dub," she said after like three seconds. "If you don't mind, I have a meeting to adjourn, you can stay if you like."

"Right, yeah," Dahyun said smiling entertained at the fact that Chaeyoung had let her stay at her own house. It happens more frequently than you would imagine.

"Context, anyone?" Sana asked smiling at everyone with a puzzled face.

"I'll explain later," Momo answered. "I can give you guys a ride home." The thing about Momo is that she cares a lot even if she pretends to dislike everyone. See? Chaeyoung knew Sana was her friend and that she did not hate all of her senior classmates even if she wouldn't admit it.

"Yay!" Sana shrieked and ran to hug Momo from behind, who sighed heavily.

"So," Chaeyoung talked from the whiteboard once again, "this has been useful. Thank you to the ones that actually contributed to this." Chaeyoung looked with a frown at Momo and Angelo.

"Hey! I gave you my ideas!"

"They all included chocolate, smart-ass," Momo laughed at him along with everyone's giggles.

"Well, I brought Dahyun, didn't I?"

"It's true," Dahyun said. "He did talk me into it."

"Huh," Chaeyoung nodded satisfied. "Then I was right on having you here," she took the credit making more laughs audible. "Does anyone feel there's something to add?"

"Yeah!" Jihyo replied raising her hand. "I was guiding this, remember? You didn't let me finish my explanation."

"Sorry," Dahyun smiled apologetically.

Chaeyoung frowned focusing her attention on Jihyo. She was right and whatever she had to say now for sure was going to be valuable.

"I mean what I told you," she started. "You have to tell her your feelings and expectations. But, also, if you really want my advice, I'll consider the element of surprise."

Immediate responses came as negative sounds from Chaeyoung's friends. Followed by a collective, "Chaeng hates surprises."

Now, that is true. Chaeyoung scratched her neck at the memory of being surprised. She was willing to consider it, though. "Why a surprise?"

"Mina has stopped expecting anything from anyone a long time ago... that's on us. I feel a surprise could be nice to remind her that she deserves good things just because. You could show her that."

Sana nodded along to Jihyo's words. "That is true," she supported softly and walked to ask for a hug, Jihyo received her gently. Chaeyoung smiled. She had been wrong by saying Sana was too smart to be with someone like Jihyo. They were good to each other and they had proven they wanted Mina happy.

'a surprise' Chaeyoung thought considering the idea. It was true she didn't want to do anything simple... she wanted to impress Mina and make her smile and remind the date forever. For Mina, she could prepare something special, surely. Besides, if she was the one doing the surprising, then it was just fine. It was settled, she was doing this. Something, somehow.

"I do like it when you are the one being questioned," Tzuyu said suddenly. "Thank you, Jihyo."

"Feel free to call me anytime she needs a lecture, or her for that matter," she pointed at Momo and walked towards her. "Take me home now."

"I decide when," Momo said emotionless and got up, taking her glass leaving probably headed to the kitchen. Jihyo rolled her eyes, but followed her either way with Sana skipping behind.

"What will you do, then?" Dahyun asked feeling genuinely curious about everything.

Chaeyoung now needed space. Space to think, plan, and recharge her mind. She felt tired and excited to put everything in order. She wanted to leave for her room and not give further explanation or socialize anymore, but she knew that was rude, so she stopped her impulses and held on a little more.

"I'll have to think about it first." That was all she could answer on the topic for now. Besides, she was reminded of something else. "Tzuyu, is everything okay?"

"What do you mean?"

"With Momo earlier, she was in a mood, then you left her. Was it a friendly fight?"

"Fight? What happened?" Dahyun asked feeling preoccupied now. She had been disconnected from them, it felt weird that she didn't know already what was happening. She always did.

"Oh... nothing, Chaeng, it was friendly." But she also added, "And you! We are still mad at you even if you apologize, you need to explain and give a better apology, and then we'll talk."

"I will," Dahyun said. And Chaeyoung expected that too. She could not simply ignore the way she had reacted and how it had made her feel, but having Dahyun by her side felt so natural and right, that she was willing to give her all the time to hear her out, they were best friends after all.

Finally, the night came. Chaeyoung could be alone now. She had to wait for Momo to finally decide to leave and take everyone with her. Then she had a conversation with Dahyun. It involved her friend apologizing over and over again with some explanations that made no sense to Chaeyoung.

That interaction made her head hurt, she could sense something was not okay with Dahyun because she never had that much trouble explaining anything to her. It was weird but Chaeyoung cared more that they could be friends again. The girls allowed the apology saying they would handle it if something of the sort ever happened again, which Chaeyoung was thankful for. It was fine, they could all be together again.

But most importantly, she knew how she wanted to ask Mina to be her girlfriend and she was going to act as soon as possible. All she needed was help. A trusted adult always came in handy for Chaeyoung. This time, she knew just who to talk to.

***

Saturday morning Chaeyoung made an important call.

"Does it have to be her room?"

"Not necessarily," Chaeyoung answered. "I just imagined it there."

Mr. Jung had kindly taken Chaeyoung's call and heard her out. He was very patient. There were three characteristics she quite liked about Mr. Jung. He had told her he preferred calls before texting when he had offered his phone number for emergencies, which was ideal; he drove the smoothest Chaeyoung had ever felt, Momo could learn one thing or two, and he was always well dressed and polite in his speech.

"From what you are telling me, I reckon there is a room ideal for this."

"How so?" Chaeyoung was curious. This had to be perfect, if he had better ideas she was willing to listen. The truth is she could use all the help available.

"Beneath the mansion, there's an underground room. Ms. Myoui loves it there, she cherishes it dearly. If you are to surprise her, that's the place."

'Like my basement' Chaeyoung thought. That place was special for her. Of course, she knew the room Mr. Jung was talking about could not remotely be compared with her basement in terms of luxury. Everything at Mina's place was exquisitely fancy. But she could understand the favoritism to a certain room and how much it could mean. "It's perfect, then. When could I go and prepare everything?"

Chaeyoung had a simple plan. She had asked Mr. Jung if he'd be so kind as to facilitate entrance to the mansion, in order to provide a surprise for Mina. She, naturally, had not mentioned her intentions of asking Mina to be her girlfriend. She got embarrassed just to think of it. She only said she wanted to do something nice for her with some snacks and a comfy space. Mr. Jung had listened carefully, showing enthusiasm for the idea.

"Ms. Son," said the chauffeur over the line. "Would you consider letting me arrange everything? If you don't have anything in mind already, I can set up the room for you."

"Oh," Chaeyoung scratched her neck thinking about it. Somehow, she did trust the man. But if she didn't know how it was going, she would also be surprised. Although she knew she was going to be surprised... maybe it was an advantage she wouldn't ever have the opportunity to have again. "Do you want to do it?"

"I do," he said. "It's what we do, we keep the house clean and perfect, we serve. I want to help with this, I can arrange the room with the perfect cozy decoration and snacks. You can have my word."

"I do trust your word," Chaeyoung said honestly. She adored talking with him, everyone should be this polite. "Are you certain it can be done tomorrow?"

"Of course," he said. "From what I know, Ms. Myoui is to stay here all day. Just tell me an hour and I will have everything set up. Then, I can allow you in."

"You are of so much help, Mr. Jung," Chaeyoung said thankfully. "How much will it cost?" Luckily, Chaeyoung handled her money with great care. She could pay for everything.

"There is no need for money," he said a bit surprised at the question. "I will handle everything."

"No, but," Chaeyoung frowned. "It's important that I pay, you are already setting everything up."

"Nonsense, we have everything here at the house," he explained. "You don't need to pay for anything, besides, if you're doing this for Ms. Myoui, then her happiness is already worth much more than all the money you could offer."

Chaeyoung could tell he was not about to change his mind. She guessed she could pay him back some other opportunity, maybe asking Mina for help or something.  So she didn't insist, which meant a lot coming from her but this was so important, she didn't want to create unnecessary stress or drama.

They finished the call after concreting the arrangements. Chaeyoung more or less described what she was going for and Mr. Jung assured her it all went perfectly with the room. It was an underground wine cellar that had no use now, but they kept it clean and functional. Especially because Mina would visit regularly. He said they could have everything ready by five so she could get there then.

'From five on' Chaeyoung smiled remembering her kissing lessons. Oh, she wanted to kiss Mina badly. Hopefully, she thought, by six she could. The thought made her stomach hurt.

The rest of the day she spent feeling anxious, choosing her words, and her clothes, and asking Momo for a ride.

"I'm not an Uber, you know?" Momo said once Chaeyoung had entered the car the next day, right on time to get at five o'clock. She took the front seat, which felt weird. She usually sits at the back and Tzuyu is at the front.

"Well you couldn't be," Chaeyoung answered as she uncomfortably fastened her seatbelt. "You don't drive very well."

"Chaeyoung," Momo said softly. "You realize I am doing you a favor, right?"

"Right," Chaeyoung said confused.

"Then... you shouldn't be insulting my driving."

"Mh," she thought about it. It was true. She had been told before, that she is too upfront about some qualities in moments when she shouldn't. "I do appreciate your driving," she tried to fix it. "Thank you."

"That's better," Momo replied nodding her head. Chaeyoung did like that she was fast whenever they were late somewhere but today she was going slow. "I do this out of kindness, you know? I am a kind person." Chaeyoung just nodded, she sensed Momo wanted to make conversation but she couldn't be more distracted by her inner monologue of how to ask Mina to be her girlfriend. She had repeated it over and over again since she had decided on it. "Do you think people know that? That I'm kind?"

"Sure, why not?" Chaeyoung replied mindlessly. She wanted Momo to go faster, although by going slow she could keep practicing. 'Hug, then talk, at least try, then talk'

"Because I care, you know," Momo said taking some turns.

"Mhh..." Chaeyoung fixed her hair still distracted. 'how I feel, then what I want for her...'

"Do you think Tzuyu knows I care?"

'... safe and—' "Tzuyu?"

"Yeah, Tzuyu."

"Of course, she does," this time Chaeyoung paid attention. She remembered their friendly fight from the other day. Something did not feel right to her. "We are friends, we care for each other and she knows you care. I know you do for me, see? Even when you annoy me."

"Okay," Momo nodded. "Yeah, I knew that."

"Okay, then," Chaeyoung checked the time. "Let's go faster, please."

"I can never please you! I was trying to drive better," Momo complained.

"I'm sorry, I just really want to do this."

"My little Chaeyoungie all grown up!" Momo fake cried. "Asking out a senior! And no other than Myoui Mina, god, you are a character."

"I will ignore that because I cannot focus my mind on something else right now."

"Sure," Momo chuckled. "We'll get there in a little bit," she said. Momo hit the gas more, the jeep went faster making the doggie plushie hanging from the mirror swing from side to side as well as Chaeyoung's heart, threatening to leave her body and run for its life. There was no turning back now.

Momo left her at an appropriate distance from the place, as requested by Chaeyoung, just in case they got seen. Which was unlikely given the extension of the house and the considerable distance from the entrance to the actual house. Still, you can never be sure. That is why when Mr. Jung received her at the door and he talked in a normal voice, Chaeyoung felt nervous.

"Everything is in order, Ms. Son," he said as they walked inside. "I am happy with the results and most glad that you could make it."

"Shouldn't we be quiet?" Chaeyoung asked in a lower pitch.

"There is no need, besides most of the rooms being soundproofed after remodelations, the distances between rooms allow us to chat normally."

Chaeyoung nodded, still feeling the need to be quiet. Mr. Jung guided her through some hallways and spaces she had never seen before until they reached a beautiful wooden door.

"This is it," he said. "I must say, Ms. Son, you look astonishingly handsome."

Chaeyoung blushed slightly. She wore a long-sleeved loose white blouse that draped gracefully over her frame, the soft fabric caught the light around her producing a soft sheen. In contrast, she complemented the blouse with her favorite black tailored pants, they fit perfectly to her silhouette, making her look slightly taller due to the high-waisted feature. She looked undeniably and charmingly chic. Of course, she had learned to take a compliment by adding one herself. "Thank you, you look so elegant all the time."

Mr. Jung chuckled shaking his head and smiled at her. "Crossing the door you'll find everything you need, let me know if there is something else I can do." He took a key and unlocked the door. But before opening he said, "I must tell you, though, Ms. Son, I can't guarantee you Ms. Myoui won't be in her pajamas."

'oh' Chaeyoung thought. She smiled entertained. How funny could it be? See, that is why surprises sucked. She hoped Mina wouldn't mind, of course, she didn't mind but, maybe Mina did, who knows? "That is okay."

"I'll make her come here in five minutes," he said. "Be ready then."

He finally opened the door for Chaeyoung, allowing her in, and closed it behind her. Five minutes. Chaeyoung checked time: 5:06.

Finally, she walked inside and realized the beautiful arrangement in front of her. She opened her mouth in surprise, she had to blink a few times as well. Nothing she could have ever prepared compared to the sight in front of her. Oh, her stomach flipped in anticipation.

Mr. Jung had described it for her, beneath the grand mansion had once stood an exquisite underground wine cellar, a masterpiece of craftsmanship and luxury. The room had been enveloped in rich, polished wood, from the ceiling beams to the paneled walls, exuding warmth and sophistication. Floor-to-ceiling wine shelves stretched across every wall, their design intricate yet robust. Softly glowing LED lights accentuated the beauty of the wood, casting a golden hue on the bottles.

The shelves had been impeccably organized, each space holding a wine bottle. The glass sparkled under the subtle illumination, and the labels, though faded, were still there. At the center of the room, a long wooden table stood, its surface smooth and gleaming, surrounded by high-backed leather chairs. It had felt like a temple to wine, frozen in time, its emptiness lending it a sense of nostalgia and mystery.

But in front of Chaeyoung, there was nothing compared to what she had imagined, the wine cellar had been transformed into an enchanting, intimate space for a date. The polished wooden table at its center had been replaced by a cozy arrangement of soft, oversized pillows in cream, burgundy, and forest green. These had been carefully placed atop a luxurious blanket, creating a comfortable and inviting nest-like space.

Twinkling string lights had been draped along the wooden beams and shelves, their gentle glow adding a touch of magic to the room. The warm tones of the polished wood and the illuminated bottles on the shelves shimmered under the soft light, enhancing the romantic atmosphere.

At the center by the pillows, a low rustic wooden tray held a chilled bottle of sparkling cider and two delicate crystal glasses. Beside it, a charming wicker basket offered an assortment of fresh fruits—plump grapes, juicy cut strawberries, and sliced apples—alongside a selection of fine cheeses, arranged perfectly on a wooden board.

Nearby, a few scented candles had flickered, their fragrance mingling with the cool, earthy aroma of the cellar. 'vanilla' Chaeyoung smiled. This was so perfect, she hoped Mina liked it. She was so ready.

Or maybe not. God, she needed to use the bathroom. Throw up a little, maybe. Right? No. No, this was fine. She was ready.

5:10

Any moment now...

When the door moved, Chaeyoung felt like fainting. Maybe giving a surprise was way worse than receiving one. No one had warned her about this.

Mina entered the room with her head down at first. She did not register what was happening until Chaeyoung spoke.

As was known by her, when you give a surprise an obvious, "Surprise!" It's obligatory.

Contrary to Mr. Jung's suspicions, Mina was not wearing pajamas. She had a beige sweatpants and a beige hoodie on. She looked comfortable and suddenly Chaeyoung felt that usual neediness around Mina.

"Chaeyoung," Mina frowned and then smiled, looking around she started to realize how everything was different. "How... I mean, wha— what is..." Mina could not finish any sentence and the look on her face was worth everything.

If Jihyo wanted to ask for a million dollars from Chaeyoung in return for her wisdom, then she was going to give them to her. A setup with Mina? She got it. Oh, she owed that girl big time. Nothing compared to the way Mina smiled at her right then.

Chaeyoung took a few steps towards Mina, feeling extremely insecure about being close to her right now, but she had to.

"Hi," Chaeyoung said trying to give her the best genuine smile she had.

"Hi," Mina replied. Her cheeks were pink and her hair looked a bit messy. She unconsciously tried to fix it. "Mr. Jung just asked me to get him..." But she did not finish because Chaeyoung walked even closer and there was simply something that made her weak on the knees.

Unaware of her charm, Chaeyoung continued. "Welcome," she said reaching her hand out for Mina. "We are on a date."

"Oh," Mina chuckled not believing anything that was happening. She gave her hand to Chaeyoung who guided her to the center of the room, where the blanket and pillows awaited. "This is... I look terrible!" Mina whined.

"You look just perfect," Chaeyoung said and invited Mina to sit down. It was extremely different yet attractive to see Mina being lost for words and somewhat shy.

Chaeyoung sat down next to her, the pillows were so cozy and beautiful. By sitting there, they had completed the final part of the picture. It was perfection, Chaeyoung adored perfection.

"I— I am a bit speechless," Mina said softly, looking down at her hands.

"Then the surprise worked."

"It did... Cute dimples," Mina finally talked more like herself. "Did you plan all this?"

"I had help," Chaeyoung scratched her neck and smiled. "I wanted to have a perfect date."

"This is... this is perfect looking."

Good, Chaeyoung thought. It was a first step. "Could I pour you a nice glass of..." Chaeyoung reached for the bottle and read, "Non-alcoholic wild berry sparkling cider?"

Mina took a moment to stare at her and licked her lips smiling, still mesmerizing by everything. She looked the cutest Chaeyoung had ever seen her. "Of course."

Carefully, Chaeyoung filled the two glasses and sat next to Mina again. "Here," she said raising her cup. Mina lifted her cup as well, the two glasses clinked and they both took a big sip.

"You, uh..." Mina said leaving her glass aside. "You look beautiful."

"I carefully selected my clothes," Chaeyoung answered truthfully. "I was going for sexy."

Mina could barely hold her giggle, using a hand to cover her mouth. It was not that the girl had not accomplished sexy because she had, but the way she was so honest about it, made her nervous, allowing for her constant smiles and giggles.

"You do look sexy," she answered as she used a hand to carefully feel the fabric of Chaeyoung's blouse on her shoulder, just briefly.

It made Chaeyoung's heart go faster. Even if she felt her hand for two seconds. She, nervously, took another sip of her cider and left it aside. "This place is nice..." Chaeyoung commented. "Mr. Jung said you come here often."

"Mhh, yes," Mina nodded leaning back using her palms as support. She looked around. The fact that she had leaned back allowing more distance between them, permitted Chaeyoung to breathe better. Yet, the way Mina's hair fell down her shoulders was a sight that wouldn't let her stomach rest. "This was my dad's favorite place, he taught me a lot about wine here."

Chaeyoung looked at the bottles on the walls, they did look old but super well taken care of. "So... is it okay for our date to be here? I mean, Mr. Jung said it will be okay."

"Yeah, it's perfect, silly," Mina looked directly into her eyes and Chaeyoung melted. She wanted to ask her already. "Come, I'll show you some special ones." Mina stood up and offered her hand to Chaeyoung.

She followed her to one of the corners of the room. Mina reached up for a bottle, they all seemed equal to Chaeyoung.

"This one," Mina said staring at the faded label. "Is a Château Étoile, 1987, classic Bordeaux, known for its velvety tannins and rich, dark fruit notes."

"Fancy," Chaeyoung nodded at the bottle. She was surprised at the information being given to her, mostly because she understood half the words of that sentence.

"Oh, and this," Mina said turning around and grabbing another bottle. "This one is a Golden Sparrow Reserve, a Californian Chardonnay with notes of baked apple and toasted almond, it is a tribute to the late '90s wave of New World Excellence... I love this one," Mina said trying to smell the cork.

To say Chaeyoung was drooling would be an understatement. Chaeyoung felt so attracted to this girl in front of her, that she felt like kissing her all over. It was no secret that Chaeyoung felt captivated by smart people. Take Mina giving her lessons, for example, she adored those instances. But this... Mina simply knowing everything about wines, was making Chaeyoung's head spin. "Why?"

"It's different from the other ones," Mina said and looked at Chaeyoung's face. "I would give you a taste but they are all empty."

"What? Empty?" Chaeyoung had not realized that. How could they be empty? "All of them?"

"Yep," Mina said and walked to the other side searching for different bottles, taking them down and smiling. "Not a drop you'd find."

Chaeyoung walked too and took random bottles as well. Every one of them was empty, she felt silly not realizing it soon. It was odd, why keep them here, then? Regardless, for some reason, she decided not to ask why. "You look super cool giving facts like that," Chaeyoung said walking to where Mina was. "What's this one?" She chose one bottle that had caught her attention to see if Mina knew them all or just random ones.

"Mmh..." Mina said taking the bottle and frowning. For a second, Chaeyoung thought she had caught her, but no. "This one is a Lago Escondido 2013, a silky Pinot Noir from Chile's Casablanca Valley with notes of red currant..." she stopped briefly getting closer to Chaeyoung, who, for the life of her couldn't move nor speak. "Rose petals...and a hint of earthiness." Mina stopped so close to Chaeyoung's face, that she could feel her warm breath. "A simple but powerful one. I don't think you meant cool."

"I— I see," Chaeyoung gulped and tried to move away but simply couldn't stop staring at Mina's lips. So inviting, yet, she wanted to talk with her first. How annoyed she felt at her mind's methods.

"It goes pretty well with cheese," Mina said moving back, giving Chaeyoung air again.

"Cheese, yes," Chaeyoung said snapping back to reality. "Let's go have some."

"Did you pick them," Mina asked as they walked back to their comfy pillows and food.

"Mr. Jung did."

"He has really good taste in cheese," Mina said clapping and sitting down. "Surprise me."

"Okay," Chaeyoung smiled now recovered from her dangerous previous thoughts. She took the wooden board with the cheese on it and placed it in the middle, they all had labels on top of them.

"Do you have any cheese knowledge?" Mina asked sensing the confusion as Chaeyoung read the labels. She had a smile so big, that Chaeyoung had no trouble admitting she had no clue.

"Not the slightest," she said. "I do love cheddar on my burger."

Mina laughed softly. Chaeyoung had intended it as a real fact, but if it made Mina laugh then she was a comedian. "Here," Mina took one of the pieces. "Try this one then."

Chaeyoung, although hesitant, accepted the offer. Mina gave it to her in the mouth. It felt extremely provocative, she couldn't be the only one sensing it like that, right?

"Mh," she said as she chewed. "This one is good."

"Yeah, I figured you would like it," Mina smiled contentedly. "It's just Brie. Extremely mild. Since you're a vanilla girl and all."

"Hey!" Chaeyoung pouted. "Those are good tastes."

"I can't deny you do have great taste," Mina said, her tone teasing and inviting. Chaeyoung would not be able to resist much longer without being closer to her. Mina chose a cheese for herself and ate it making sure she stared at Chaeyoung the whole time.

"Uh," Chaeyoung cleared her throat and looked away. She reached for the basket and pulled out the freshly cut fruit. Grapes, she liked grapes. "Have some fruit," she said as she took some for herself.

"Brie does go well with grapes, see? Your taste is as basic as it gets."

"Are you insulting me?" Chaeyoung asked genuinely curious. "Because I am pretty proud of my taste."

"Try this," Mina said and chose a particular-looking one, that Chaeyoung truthfully had no intention of trying. Oh, the things she did for love.

She received the piece, once again, feeling nervous about Mina's fingers so close to her mouth. This time her frisky thoughts could not continue, though, as the cheese once in her mouth tasted awful. Completely disgusting.

"Oh, oh no," Chaeyoung said and turned around to somehow take the piece out of her mouth. She found a napkin inside the basket and had to do the least attractive thing ever and spit the cheese out.

Mina burst into laughter the second the cheese had touched Chaeyoung's mouth. She laughed all the time until Chaeyoung desperately reached for her glass of cider, drinking all of its content.

"Here, here," Mina said offering her own glass once Chaeyoung had finished hers in just a second. Chaeyoung accepted and drank the whole thing as well. Mina left her hand on Chaeyoung's back and tapped it gently. "That's Roquefort."

"I'm never having that again," Chaeyoung stated once she had recovered. "I like simple, cheap, mild things, okay? That's all I can eat."

"Fine, sweetie," Mina said softly and gently fixed a strand of hair behind Chaeyoung's ear.

'oh'

Now, that was too much for Chaeyoung to take. She felt her stomach twisting and it was not the Roquefort effect. It was the Myoui Mina effect. The way Mina called her sometimes just produced something in her. It was hard enough to hear cute dimples sometimes, now sweetie? She was doomed.

"I need to tell you something."

That was it, she could not wait any longer.

"Oh, okay," Mina said a bit scared. Probably because Chaeyoung had said it so suddenly and a bit serious.

Chaeyoung cleared her throat and stood up. She moved the glasses aside, the cheese tray, and the basket. Mina stared attentively. Once everything was away, she had the space to sit closer to Mina, where she, not seamlessly, hugged her from behind. "Is this okay?"

Her hands were awkwardly surrounding her torso. But she felt better once Mina had nodded it was okay. She also supported her chin on top of Mina's shoulder.

"What is it?" Mina asked still worried.

"I'll talk for a while... yeah?"

"Okay." Mina felt scared and confused but feeling Chaeyoung hugging her brought comfort. Although, she couldn't help but think that something was terribly wrong.

"I wanted to have this date and make it memorable with a purpose," Chaeyoung started confidently but quickly started to feel nervous. "Uhm, well... I wanted to— Sorry, "she said. To which Mina moved her hands to hold Chaeyoung's against her body. "Tighter."

"Okay," Mina said softly again. She pressed stronger and it truly felt better.  Mina was scared. She was not sure why but she felt so scared, her body tensed and her head felt pressure. She felt like running away, but Chaeyoung's embrace kept her grounded.

"On our last date I wanted to say things and then left you and well, it was not as I intended," Chaeyoung chuckled a bit embarrassed, and continued. "This time I won't leave anything unsaid and I won't leave you." Mina just nodded, feeling too frightened to speak.

"Mina," Chaeyoung sighed ready to express her feelings. "I really like you."

Chaeyoung could feel Mina's hand squeezing her own for a second, she figured it meant she was listening. She liked it.

"You make me feel so happy and tingly all the time. With you, I can be myself and it's not complicated, which is... amazing, really. You make me want to be the best version of myself and I know sometimes I just— I will have trouble with simple things, but I can look you in the eyes now, which I couldn't do easily before and I love it, because you have such beautiful eyes and— well, you have beautiful everything."

Mina let out a little laugh and squeezed Chaeyoung's hand again. Chaeyoung hid her face against Mina's neck for a second regaining strength and moved back to her position to keep talking. "I want to make you feel wanted, protected, and happy," she said. It came easy, maybe because this part she had practiced a lot. "And— I know I will struggle trying to do that, but I've come to realize after much thought that everyone struggles when promising things like that, not just people like me. Even if I might struggle more, it's okay because I will try harder." Chaeyoung had reflected on this heavily for a while now, she meant every word. "And I will be good at it because I am excellent at surpassing statistics, so I know I can promise that to you." Now, after the promises, she just had to ask. She got this. "If you allow me, I want to remember you every day just how special you are and all the ways you're perfect for me, that is why I need to ask you—Mina, will you be my girlfriend?"

Oh, she did it, She said it. It was terrifying, but she said it. She felt much lighter for a second, but then... no one had warned her an answer would take so long. Was it supposed to be like that? 10 seconds... 20... 30... something was wrong, right?

"Mi—Mina?"

"Mh," Mina replied with a short hum.

"Uh... Did— Did you—"

"Cute dimples, could I turn around now?"  Mina asked so fast, that Chaeyoung had no time to register her tone.

"Ah, sure," Chaeyoung said releasing her embrace. Mina immediately turned around, kneeling on the blanket and looking at Chaeyoung. "Oh, no, was it something I said?"

Mina, who had her face full of tears and could not stop silently crying, cried a laugh hearing that. Chaeyoung was scared and she did not know if that was a good laugh or not. "Of course it was something that you said, you fool."

Mina held Chaeyoung's face, without asking for permission or anything, she just did it. It took Chaeyoung by surprise, but she wanted Mina to answer so she let her. Her heart was going so fast, she was afraid.

She could see how Mina's breathing, in the middle of her delicate tears, was also fast. She could see her chest rising and falling and then, in just a moment, Mina leaned down and caught her half-opened mouth in a kiss.

The hands on the side of her head kept her still. Mina's lips tasted sweet and salty. Mina kissed her strongly and fervently. Chaeyoung had not expected that, but she could quickly catch on to the kiss, allowing Mina easy access, more than anything. The girl kissed her mouth over and over again for at least half a minute, oh she had missed her lips.

She immediately felt something was missing when Mina pulled back, both their breathings messier than before. She just had to ask. "Is—is that a yes?"

"A thousand times yes," Mina said all teary leaving Chaeyoung's face and smiling at her.

Chaeyoung just needed one yes, but she figured a thousand were much better. Actually, she preferred it. She dared to reach for Mina's face and carefully wiped her tears away with both thumbs. She hated the wet feeling so she quickly cleaned her fingers against the blanket, but after that, she looked at the girl in front of her in the eyes. "Don't cry," she said. "It's okay."

Mina licked her lips and looked up holding any tears left. When she looked down, Chaeyoung got closer. "May I kiss you again?"

"Of course," Mina said anticipating Chaeyoung's lips, so kissable and warm.

This time, Chaeyoung started the kiss, so it was not a surprise. She wanted to. She had wanted to kiss her the second she had walked through that door. She caught her lips gently but firmly.

'a thousand times yes' She thought smiling against the kiss. 'a thousand times' That is a lot. She could not get the phrase out her mind. She loved it, she loved this, she wanted Mina badly. She deepened the kiss, insisting and pushing Mina gently. She felt lost in the kiss, she could not help to keep pushing until Mina had to rest her back on the pillows.

Chaeyoung wanted to kiss all her tears away, Chaeyoung wanted to kiss her until she believed all the words she had said. She had to. She supported her body with one hand, hovering above Mina, who pulled her closer by her blouse.

It was difficult for Chaeyoung to recognize this feeling because she usually had to name her feelings. She knew she felt attracted to Mina, she was indeed quite turned on by her, but it was a bit different. She also felt happy and afraid. It was so confusing all she could do was ignore it by feeling all of Mina.

"I— I had missed your lips like this," Chaeyoung said, stopping the kiss briefly.

"Mh," Mina answered not letting her stop it for long. "Show me."

Chaeyoung felt hot, actual heat bothering her body, she wanted to take all her clothes off, but she knew that was not an option. She obeyed and showed Mina.

Putting all her knowledge into this moment, nibbling on Mina's lips, kissing her until she needed to breathe again. She used the breathing time, to look for Mina's neck, kissing her there, making the girl immediately grant her access by looking to the side and using a hand to press her head and make a mess of her hair.

"God, Chaeyoung," Mina breathed out shakily.

Oh, hearing her name like that made Chaeyoung's mind go crazy. She used her free hand to look for Mina's waist, messily lifting her hoodie, and she held her strongly. Mina felt warm and fragile.

Her skin felt so nice to the touch, Chaeyoung really wanted to feel more. Could she? Is that possible right now? Could she ask? She stopped kissing Mina's neck and looked for her eyes.

"Mina," she called, making the girl look at her. Breathtaking.

"Yes?" She asked and lifted her hand to caress Chaeyoung's bottom lip. For a moment Chaeyoung forgot she had wanted to ask something, that gesture made her speechless. Mina's fingers felt so good close to her mouth, not just offering her food. "Tell me..." she said again seeing Chaeyoung didn't say anything, fixing a strand of hair again behind her ear.

"Ah, right," Chaeyoung laughed feeling slightly embarrassed. "Uhm..." Now she felt afraid to ask, forget it. 

"What?" Mina asked as a big smile formed on her face.

Chaeyoung felt so embarrassed her cheeks turned red. "Ah... ah, nothing, just..."

"Cute dimples, tell me!" Mina had caught her, she was not letting this go.

Chaeyoung, now that her breathing and heart had calmed a bit, could think better. She had another, less hormonal question. "Could I call you mine?"

Mina blinked in surprise and frowned, still smiling. "Uh... like you own me?"

"No, not like I own you," Chaeyoung shook her hand negatively. "More like... I take care of you. In every aspect."

Mina struggled to lean forward and sit again. Chaeyoung leaned back to grant her space but still sat close to her. Mina nodded her head showing she understood. She used a hand to lift Chaeyoung's chin, as the Junior adored so much. Their lips ached to be together again.

"I'm yours then," she whispered and supported her head against Chaeyoung's.

"I'll do it," Chaeyoung said. "I promise everything I said."

"I'll do my best too, then," Mina said. "To keep you happy and mine as well."

"Mhh," Chaeyoung laughed softly feeling shy. "I am really happy."

"Then I am happy as well." Mina fidgeted with Chaeyoung's blouse neck mindlessly. "This is beautiful, cute dimples, this is the best date I've ever had, thank you..."

"Mine too," Chaeyoung said to which Mina chuckled.

"I... I can't believe this," Mina shook her head.

"What?" Chaeyoung frowned.

"That... this is happening."

"It's true," Chaeyoung said worried. "I do, I really like you."

"Yeah, that's— That's the surprising part."

"What? Why?" Chaeyoung kept frowning. "No, I do, I swear."

"I know..." Mina said sounding pensively. "Ignore me."

"I— I won't ignore you," Chaeyoung said. "Actually, I can't ignore you." It was really hard for Chaeyoung to let things go.

But Mina had an advantage. "Ignore me," she whispered and lifted Chaeyoung's chin again. The younger girl knew what that meant, suddenly she could forget whatever Mina wanted. Complete memory loss.

They kissed slowly this time, gently and nicely. Smiling against the kiss, Mina whispered again, "Better."

'a thousand times' Chaeyoung thought again. She could not believe this moment, this day, this girl, her girlfriend. They stopped kissing slowly and laughed about it. Laughter invaded them easily this afternoon. Having each other was perfect.

"Here," Mina said and decided to keep feeding her girlfriend.

Chaeyoung, briefly reminded of the previous cheese incident, feared for her life but immediately relaxed once she saw Mina had only taken the fruit. She gladly bit half of the strawberry from Mina's hand and smiled at her as she ate it. All the fruit was sliced and nicely arranged.

"Sweet," she said. She liked it.

"Yeah?" Mina asked and took another one. Chaeyoung imagined she was going to try some, but she offered it again to her. 

"Try it," Chaeyoung recommended. It was excellent fruit.

"I will," Mina said and insisted on offering the piece of strawberry to her. Giving up, Chaeyoung shrugged and bit the fruit again, but this time, when she did so, Mina used her thumb to caress Chaeyoung's lip like before, keeping her there with her mouth opened and the piece of strawberry half-eaten.

'oh, dear' Chaeyoung thought, realizing what was happening. Mina leaned forward holding Chaeyoung's chin in position with her thumb still grazing her lips. She bit the other side of the strawberry, in the most seductive way Chaeyoung had ever seen. She left her chin, tasting the fruit and nodding along. She licked her lips and smiled at Chaeyoung.

"It is extraordinarily sweet."

The way Mina's lips glistened after that, made Chaeyoung's tummy swirl. She wanted for her to do that again. Again and again, just to taste Mina's lips after. Sweet and warm, the most perfect lips ever. She wanted it so bad, that she took another piece and positioned it in between her teeth herself, waiting for Mina.

A fast learner. That's what Chaeyoung had always been. Mina smiled remembering that, realizing what Chaeyoung was asking. "I see," she said and leaned to bite a piece again, making sure to graze Chaeyoung's lips with her own in the process. 

They ate like that for a while, until Chaeyoung decided she had had enough and preferred to keep feeling the sweet taste from Mina's mouth alone. They made out for another while, then ate normally and poured each other more cider. They talked, laughed, kissed again, and talked some more. The night came and soon Chaeyoung knew she had to leave, even if she did not want her day to end.

"Can't you stay?" Mina asked. They were looking at the ceiling, resting on their backs with her heads together, their bodies pointing to opposite sides.

"We have class tomorrow."

"So what..." Mina pouted. "I can get you anything you need."

"It's not that... I just— I didn't know beforehand."

"What's the difference between knowing now and knowing then?" Mina asked genuinely wanting to understand.

"I would have had time to prepare... physically and mentally," Chaeyoung tried to explain. She did not feel judged, she wanted to explain.

"So... if I invite you some other day, with anticipation, you could stay?" Mina asked hopefully.

Chaeyoung thought about it. She was not sure her parents would let her... but she did want to. As nervous as the proposition made her feel. It sure could be arranged, right? Definitely.

"I think so, yes."

"I'll invite you one day, then."

It was a promise. Chaeyoung accepted and soon, it was indeed time to go. She felt sad about leaving such a comfy space. A space that had been created just for the two of them. It was unique and beautiful. She was going to miss it but it would live forever in her mind. A thousand times, actually. She said goodbye to Mina with a long kiss and a big smile. The end of a perfect afternoon.

Mr. Jung drove her home. He didn't ask much other than if the space had been up to her expectations and if Mina had liked it as well. He seemed happy and Chaeyoung felt comfortable around him. She thanked him once again after getting out of the car.

A dream. Chaeyoung felt she was waking up from a dream, but she promised to make Mina feel like this every time she could. Her heart felt full and maybe, just maybe, she could see why Momo had said she could feel butterflies, although it seemed to her, it felt like a much larger living specimen. A thousand times larger, to be exact.

To Mina
Gn <3

From Mina
gn, gf <3 

Chapter Text

She forgot. A few weeks ago, no one would have believed that.

"Do you think she'll freak out when we tell her?" Momo asked playing with one of her fries.

"I think whatever she is doing now is way more fun, she'll let it slip."

"True," Dahyun, who had recently joined the two friends supported Tzuyu's answer. "If she planned it ignoring this, then it was way more important."

The girls met at their usual diner, as they do on Sunday afternoons. This time, Chaeyoung had forgotten.

"You drove her there. How did she look?" Tzuyu asked Momo, curious about Chaeyoung's decision.

"She kept doing that thing where she rehearses what she wants to say... I mean she was doing it in her head but I could tell," Momo nodded remembering their ride. "She did not look nervous, though, just excited."

"That's good," Dahyun said, she still felt out of place around her friends after skipping a few smoothie Sundays. "I hope everything goes right."

"It will," Tzuyu said. "Mina is as much interested as Chaeyoung is, they look completely disgusting around each other."

"I can confirm that," Momo frowned. "I don't know how she did it but that girl really likes our Chaeng."

"I see..."

"Yeah, a bit too late you see," Tzuyu said frowning at her. "We have a pendant talk."

"Yes," Momo supported firmly, pushing her food aside, which meant real seriousness coming from her.

Dahyun knew this might happen, which is why she dismissed Angelo from today's smoothie Sunday, explaining she needed to talk with her friends. The boy understood, if anything he was glad. He missed the girls and all of them together.

"Okay..." Dahyun sighed and slid down slightly on her seat. She would rather ignore everything. That is what she had been doing anyway.

"You are the one who has always taught us how to behave, talk, and be around Chaeyoung since we were kids!" Tzuyu seemed really annoyed at Dahyun. She cared for Chaeyoung a great deal.

"Exactly, you are the one who forbade me from whistling around her because it annoys her! I have not whistled ever since but suddenly you are homophobic?" Momo was frowning at her and meant every word. But the fact that her complaint involved the prohibition of whistling, made Tzuyu chuckle at her.

"Be serious," she whispered at her still giggling.

"I am," Momo considered this an important matter. "Explain yourself."

Dahyun looked at her lap, her hands seemed so interesting now. "Uh..." She delayed. "Listen... I am sorry, okay? I was surprised that's all."

"Dub..." Tzuyu tried to be less aggressive. She was not completely mad after all. They had to fix this, whatever it was.

"Fine, just, of course, it's okay if she likes girls... we have known since forever."

"But?" Momo raised her eyebrows at her.

"She can like girls, not me, okay?"

"Well, yeah, but that is not up to you," Tzuyu replied feeling more confused than before.

Momo laughed a bit incredulously. "What are you even saying?"

"I don't know, you guys said it was obvious that she had a crush, I don't want people to think of me that way—"

"Stop with that wording, be serious now."

"Fine!" Dahyun said feeling more and more frustrated. And slightly afraid of Tzuyu's gaze. "I don't like girls."

"Okay," Tzuyu said. "We get it, now don't ever be mean to Chaeyoung about it."

"I just— need a moment," Dahyun said frustrated, and got up, leaving for the restroom's direction.

"Are we really forgiving her?" Momo asked returning her attention to the remains of her food.

"Yeah... Chaeyoung needs her, plus, I know she means well." Tzuyu said softly. "It's the crush part that took her by surprise—"

"She must be blind, blind!"

"Come on," Tzuyu said trying to make sense of her friend's behavior. "I think she genuinely didn't know, they have always been close to each other, she couldn't have guessed it was different for Chaeyoung, plus... even if we don't see them often, her parents are quite the pain."

"Yeah, I guess..." Momo had considered that, but she still couldn't quite understand or justify the way things happened. She was willing to give Dahyun a chance but just this time.

"Okay listen!" Dahyun got back after a minute, it seemed she had only gone to the restrooms to splash some water on her face. "But listen carefully, 'cause I'll only say this once—"

"What are—"

"No, no, just listen," Dahyun silenced her friend. "It was all just bad timing, okay? I had been wondering for a while now if I like girls the way I like boys— and, you know what? I probably do, but I won't allow it, not now, I just— can't afford to explore that right now, okay? I won't, so, don't ask me about it and let me ignore it for now, yeah?" Dahyun recited everything quickly. "Take me home now."

"Are you saying that—"

"No!" Dahyun said covering her ears with her hands. "I won't talk about it, do not tell Chaeng either, she does not know how to not talk about something."

She slowly uncovered her ears and cleared her throat, looking at her friend's faces carefully.

"Fine," Momo said accepting whatever this was. She gave a glance to Tzuyu who just nodded at her.

"Yeah, fine," she said as well. It was not a surprising revelation, but the fact that she refused to talk about it, was what left her friends confused and worried. Momo drove Dahyun home and they said goodbye as if nothing had happened.

"Are we ignoring that?" Momo asked, once again, looking for confirmation on Tzuyu. They usually worked collaboratively like that, especially when it came to their group of friends.

"I mean, what else are we supposed to do? She seems fine, she just wants to ignore it for now, I kinda get it. Besides, it does explain why she reacted like that and how she does not mean it, so... That's good."

Momo sighed heavily ready to ignore it, as demanded. "Okay," she said. "Then everything is fine. Your place now?" She asked starting the car again, ready to select Tzuyu's home address on the screen.

"Are you going home after?"

"Uh, no, I forgot to ask Chaeng if she needed a ride back home and she didn't tell me so I was planning on driving around for a while..." Momo explained. "I don't want to call and interrupt something so."

"That's sweet," Tzuyu smiled at her. "I'll wait with you."

"No, it's not," Momo frowned and drove off. "Fine, but—"

"I'll pick the music!" Tuzyu said quickly, realizing what Momo was about to forbid.

"Noo," Momo whined. "You will only choose the songs I complain about."

"You got it," Tzuyu cheered and started to add songs to the queue. "I am your copilot, that's what we do."

Momo rolled her eyes and let her be. She liked the songs anyway. Having company was good. The company being Tzuyu, was even better. Besides, the fact that Tzuyu had said your copilot, instead of just the copilot, stuck with her... faintly at the back of her mind almost like a whisper.

In the end, Chaeyoung did not need a ride home. They got a message from Dahyun saying the girl had arrived safely.

"Apparently, Mina has a chauffeur," Momo explained. "If Chaeng gets that benefit from now on, I won't ever offer her a ride, she has betrayed me."

"Don't be silly," Tzuyu laughed as she scrolled through her phone, they had parked a few minutes ago in an empty lot near the school. People usually used that place to practice driving. Tzuyu had her seat reclined and was comfortably lying down. "Wait, but," Tzuyu put her phone aside and smiled wide, "it worked, then? They are official?"

Momo sighed and shook her head. "I'm afraid... we will have to stand these two being in love from now on."

Tzuyu seemed glad for a second and then immediately frowned and sat properly. "We will have to help Chaeng."

"With what? No," Momo whined. "Why?" She had her head resting against the steering wheel.

"Help her not mess this up, how to prioritize Mina and all... You know her with her schedule and all she might take her for granted."

"I don't think so..." Momo thought about it. "I mean, yes, she might need a bit of a push for some things but priority-wise, she stood us up today, didn't she? I think she is all set."

"Still." Tzuyu offered her pinky to Momo. "We can't let her mess this up, okay?"

"Seriously?"

"Yes." Tzuyu did not kid about pinky promises. And she cared for Chaeyoung greatly.

"Fine," Momo answered, faking annoyance. She did worry about this as well. She was not going to let Chaeyoung mess it up either. The whole pinky promise thing, though... was too much for her liking. Regardless, she sealed the pact locking her pinky with Tzuyu's. That's what friends do, right?

Friends also judge each other. In the kindest way possible. Momo did a lot of that regularly, and specially the next day at school, when they interviewed Chaeyoung regarding her relationship status.

"So, it's official?" Tzuyu asked her friend for the third time that morning. "But, really, really?"

"Why are you not believing me?" Chaeyoung frowned. She looked the happiest ever. There was something on her aura that reflected how well she had rested last night. Her smile wouldn't leave her face.

"I'm just happy for you," Tzuyu said and held Chaeyoung's right shoulder for a moment as if saying good job. "Will she be having lunch with us from now on?"

"That's to be determined," Chaeyoung replied closing her locker, ready to get to class.

"Noo," Momo groaned. "Tell me you're not determining it in a you way."

"What's the you—"

"She means a way you've created, Chaeng," Dahyun interrupted her question anticipating the doubt produced by Momo's wording. Chaeyoung smiled. She had missed having Dahyun around, especially to help with this kind of stuff.

"Ah, yes, then," Chaeyoung nodded. "We are discussing dating protocol later today."

"God dammit," Momo cursed. "I pinky promised but she is not helping." She looked at Tzuyu explaining the issue. Certainly, Momo was afraid this could happen. She knew what Tzuyu had meant in terms of helping Chaeyoung with everything and she was willing to do it, but her friend was not going to make it easy for them, right? "Dating protocol? Surely, Mina is not accepting that, Chaeng."

"Oh, but she did," Chaeyoung said not finding the issue.

"Did she?" Momo insisted. Maybe this whole relationship thing was not for her younger friend.

"She did. Hey." Or maybe Momo was worrying too much. Mina had for the first time ever approached them on a normal school morning. As if nothing. "Hi," she said smiling at Chaeyoung.

"Hi," Chaeyoung smiled back and looked down immediately. Her flushed cheeks made her whole appearance cute. It was a loving scene. Momo was going to be sick.

"You agreed to discuss dating protocol?" Tzuyu asked after waving as a greeting.

"Of course," Mina answered. Her voice was quiet and uncommon by the group of friends. It resonated soft and gentle. "How else could our relationship thrive?"

"Exactly," Chaeyoung nodded, feeling glad of Mina's answer. It was exactly what she had said to her yesterday when she had asked to discuss this protocol.

Chaeyoung's friends, though, smiled feeling entertained at Mina's answer since she was evidently repeating what Chaeyoung had said in a sarcastic way. "Ah, you are right," Tzuyu nodded feeling already good to have Mina around. She was witty and friendly. Ideal to keep Chaeyoung on her toes.

When it was time to go to class, Momo realized she was going to have to walk with Mina. It was not a bad thing... but it definitely was not a Momo thing. Nevertheless, she had pinky promised and this surely counted as helping Chaeyoung. It was all so weird to her. Momo did not dislike Mina... she had been wary of her approaching her friend because she doubted her intentions.

It was not only a distrust coming from the rumors about Mina, but Momo doubted all of her senior classmates. And everyone ever, really. She fully trusted her three friends, no one else. Okay, and maybe, just maybe, she saw reliability in Sana. But she had to, it was a dancing thing. Merely a dancing thing. Everyone else was a lying, self—interested teenager.

Given the circumstances, she was willing to give Mina a chance. She kept looking at her by the corner of her eye. Mina looked relaxed, she looked so cool and composed all the time. It was almost a royalty-like characteristic. Perfect seemed a proper adjective to describe this girl, Momo could see more and more why Chaeyoung was so into her. Her friend adored perfect.

Even if they had apologized to Mina for previous accusations made... Momo felt a bit embarrassed about what had happened. She wanted to say something... or more like, she felt she had to. Anything. Just to make things lighter. Besides, Mina looked happy today, unlike other days.

"You don't have to say anything," Mina suddenly said. She didn't look at Momo or anything, they just kept walking. She meant it and Momo could tell. It was less embarrassing after that. They did not say goodbye, just walked to each classroom once they got to their destination. The walk from the lockers to their classrooms was no more than two minutes.

It felt a bit longer, but Mina had meant it when she said Momo did not have to make conversation. For Mina, the fact she had walked willingly next to her meant a great deal. She had started the day happily, thinking of everything that had happened recently, and hurried to school just to see her girlfriend and now this short yet meaningful moment. Mina was definitely feeling excited about things finally changing.

In class, though, everything was the same. Boring and easy. Mina lazed through the classes before lunch period with the prospect of seeing Chaeyoung again as motivation. They had indeed agreed to discuss dating protocol.

She had expected no less from Chaeyoung. It was a bit odd, for sure. Not a common thing. But if you ask Mina, it sounds way better than common. Couples failing to communicate and trying to guess based on assumptions and attempts. Relationships need boundaries and rules. Setting them up from day one surely will facilitate things for them. If Chaeyoung wanted to discuss it, it meant she cared. Mina knew this by now. Chaeyoung making her part of her schedules and plans, was the purest way to incorporate her into her life. Besides, she needed to communicate some preferences as well. Yeah, the dating protocol seemed exciting.

Seeing Chaeyoung again seemed exciting. They met at the study hall, it was quite cozy and private there. Mina liked that it was quiet for real. Besides, at lunch, no one was there. Ah, Mina tried to play it cool, but her heart could not catch a break since yesterday afternoon.

The truth is Mina had been a bit resentful since she participated in Smoothie Sunday. What Chaeyoung had assumed... broke her heart, slightly. They had confessed their feelings for each other but that did not mean they were official. After that, Mina only hoped Chaeyoung's friends talked to her, because she felt a bit embarrassed to explain it herself. Apparently, they did. Whoever talked or gave advice to Chaeyoung, Mina was forever grateful. Or who knows? Maybe Chaeyoung had realized herself, but the result was that Mina could not feel any happier.

It felt as amazing as it felt scary. But, she was trying to ignore her usual frightened thoughts and allowing herself to be taken care of by Chaeyoung, as the girl had proposed. How long will this bravery last? She hoped long, but it couldn't be certain.

"Hi," she said as usual, sitting next to Cheyoung who was already in one of the self-study corners, the girl raised her head at her and stared examining all of her face. Mina frowned. Was there something wrong?

"Hi," Chaeyoung answered back as expected and immediately added, "I want to kiss you right now."

"Cute dimples," Mina said frowning but smiling at the same time, taken aback by this statement. She felt pressure on her tummy, she was not sure if she felt like throwing up or not. She urgently had to start getting used to Chaeyoung's bold comments like this, otherwise, she was going to be sick all the time. Dead by romance.

"Is that wrong?" Chaeyoung genuinely asked.

"Uhm, no..." Mina thought for a second. It was frankly nice. There was nothing wrong with it, except the trauma poking Mina's brain. To think she would ever hear those words and be able to kiss her girlfriend in this context was unbelievable. She was not sure how to explain that to Chaeyoung or if she wanted to. So, she did the best next thing and leaned down to give her a small kiss.

It was a simple peck on the lips. But it meant the world for Mina. She had kissed a girl. At school. Without caring for looks or anyone else. She felt her cheeks warming up at the thought. But her cheeks were not as red as Chaeyoung's.

Her girlfriend could be all talk sometimes. The junior definitely had the intention, boldness, and courage... but when things actually happened, Mina could see the doubt and inexperience. During lessons as well. Chaeyoung for sure learned easily and did everything right, yet, the carefulness, the questions, her red cheeks, oh, it made Mina weak. She was simply the most charming.

"Ah..." Chaeyoung answered scratching her head, looking a bit surprised. Mina smiled wide at her. "Excellent. So, dating protocol. We have to discuss it and if you don't mind, I already thought of a few points."

"Mh hm," Mina nodded using the time to admire the view in front of her. Ah... she could get so easily lost staring at Chaeyoung. Sure, they could discuss dating protocol, she was sure whatever Chaeyoung wanted was fine. Now, she wanted to keep staring.

Chaeyoung used pen and paper instead of her usual notes app, she started explaining her first proposal, Mina nodded and positioned her elbows on the table to support her head with her fists as she kept listening to her.

There was something so attractive about seeing Chaeyoung talking invested in something. Mina was used at this point to the lack of eye contact from Chaeyoung, but she didn't mind, because she could divert her eyes as well. Chaeyoung's lips moving looked enticing. Mina wondered what would happen if she just kissed her again. Maybe another peck. A tiny one against the mole under her lower lip. No? Maybe later...

Chaeyoung's tie also looked interesting. She followed from there all the way down to Chaeyoung's folded blouse sleeve in her right arm, it was so simple, yet so sexy. She looked smart and strong and Mina could not get enough of her.

"... would that be okay?"

'shit' Mina thought lifting her head and nodding in agreement. She had no idea what she had accepted. 'aha perfect' she saw Chaeyoung writing the first point down so she could check there.

It was not a first petition. Apparently, Chaeyoung had only asked to separate the protocol into two, a general section and a school section. Yeah, Mina remembered a few words now. This was fine, she supported that division. Okay, she was paying attention now.

"Let's start with school then?" Mina asked seeing if she had understood well. Seeing Chaeyoung nod and smile confirmed it.

"Mh..." Chaeyoung started feeling a bit troubled. She massaged her nape. Mina moved a hand to her knee, trying to use enough pressure. She knew Chaeyoung had liked that before.

"You can ask anything," she assured her.

"I feel like kissing you all the time, but I believe that I cannot follow that impulse at school, and... maybe it will be easier if we establish a number."

Mina smiled and thought before answering. Not because she was doubting or considering whether accepting or not, but because she found this adorable. She couldn't help but compare this situation with her previous experience. Having someone hiding her and then denying her making her feel so small to having now someone who cares enough to sit down and write the guidelines of their relationship felt overwhelming in a positive way.

"A number... okay," she smiled tilting her head at Chaeyoung. "How about a hundred?"

When she said that, Chaeyoung immediately started laughing. Mina loved her laugh although it always came in the least expected moments.

"You're funny," Chaeyoung said recovering from her laughter. "You meant it as a joke, right?"

"So you wouldn't like to kiss a hundred times a day?"

"Ah... well, yes." Chaeyoung blushed. "But that is not very practical is it?"

"Does our relationship have to be practical?" Don't misunderstand, Mina knew they could not kiss that much and she had indeed been joking, but she loved to get these answers out of Chaeyoung.

"Mh," Chaeyoung nodded without hesitation. "Yes, of course. I am not saying is the most important aspect of it. Because I know some impracticality is required in life. Idealistic prospers and all. But I want this to work, so we need useful and realistic routines. Practicality."

Mina smiled. 'in her terms, that might as well have been an I love you, right?' She could not get enough of this girl being so honest, so into her, so genuinely healthy. Chaeyoung felt like a remedy she could not get enough of.

"Not a hundred kisses then?"

"We could try one day," Chaeyoung was open to the idea even if it made her chuckle again. "As a challenge."

"Alright, sweetie," Mina nodded and fixed a strand of hair behind Chaeyoung's ear. She was giving her a break now. "Tell me a number for school then."

"I was thinking four," Chaeyoung looked at Mina maybe waiting for a complaint or something but Mina just nodded still looking at her with her head tilted. Mina felt so safe and relaxed talking like this with her. Honestly, Chaeyoung could have picked the number one and Mina would have been okay with it.

"Four seems good, explain," Mina said.

"One when we meet, then the other two might happen when we see each other during the day, probably lunch, then a goodbye kiss." Chaeyoung seemed to have put thought into this way before today.

Mina nodded slowly, thinking about it. "Okay, but that is just for school, right?"

"Yes."

"So... outside school, we can kiss all we want?"

"Uhm, yes," Chaeyoung nodded and was about to scratch her neck when Mina stopped her gently.

"I know," she said. "I know you mean at my place or yours. I was just playing around. I know you are not a fan of PDA and I'm not either and it's for the best, really." Of course Mina thought that. They could kiss either way probably, but not just anywhere. She was completely aware of that.

"Okay," Chaeyoung smiled in relief and started to write down the newest agreement. "Then, four kisses. How about lunch?"

"What about lunch?"

"Will you be having lunch with me?"

"Oh, uhm, well, I would like to be with you, yes," Mina answered. "But just you or—"

"No, no, with my friends too."

Mina felt a bit embarrassed to ask but she did anyway. "Won't they mind?"

"Of course not," Chaeyoung said. "Tzuyu even asked me today. They seem to like you now." Mina could not help but scoff at the now part, she loved Chaeyoung had no filter sometimes. It was okay, though. She could understand the feeling.

"I will, then."

"Excellent," Chaeyoung wrote that down as well. "Now... I was thinking, would you let me carry your books or school bag? Because I have seen movies where they do that but I wouldn't like you to carry my things... or anyone, really. But I wouldn't mind if you don't want to, but— I would like to, especially if they are heavy. I like heavy things."

"Cute," Mina replied, to which Chaeyoung frowned. How was any of that cute? "Uhm, yeah, I mean... there is no need but if you want to, sometimes I might ask for your help or you can offer, is that okay?" Mina felt she was doing a favor to Chaeyoung by accepting, it looked like she wanted to do that. Mina didn't mind carrying her things.

"Yes!" Chaeyoung nodded eagerly and wrote it down. Mina massaged the girl's nape as she wrote. "Tickles," she mumbled. Mina chuckled and stopped, leaning forward she left a kiss against Chaeyoung's shoulder and moved back to her position.

"This protocol, Cute Dimples," Mina started softly. "It is open to changes and suggestions, right?"

"Yes, of course," Chaeyoung nodded looking at her once she stopped writing. "We can add or remove clauses anytime."

"Okay, sounds good," Mina smiled. "Just remember that it's okay if sometimes we don't kiss four times, or you don't carry my things or we can't have lunch together, yeah?"

Chaeyoung made a face for a second but then nodded in agreement. Mina had the feeling this protocol could get a bit too much in Chaeyoung's head, so she reminded her of this.

After that, they discussed a few more aspects regarding the school part and wrote them down. Chaeyoung proposed the idea of her trying to walk holding hands three times a week, just to see if she could handle it. She didn't promise she could, only that she would try the three times, no matter the result. It could be ten seconds or a whole minute, but it all depended. Mina agreed, explaining that it was okay and giving thanks for the proposition, knowing how much it meant. She looked forward to it.

For the outside of school part of the agreement, they mainly discussed the ritual of dates. Chaeyoung expressed her desire to take Mina on various dates, only explaining she was not sure where and being honest about how difficult it was for her to decide since it had to be perfect. Mina gave the idea of creating a list of places or activities she would love to go or do for her, so Chaeyoung could pick from there without worrying about it not being the right option.

"You would do that for me?" Chaeyoung frowned as she asked feeling touched.

"Of course, silly," Mina smiled at her incredulity. "Anything."

For a second, Chaeyoung looked down at the table and seemed emotional. Mina noticed, scooting closer, she supported her head on her shoulder.

"I love lists..." Chaeyoung mumbled.

"I know."

Chaeyoung moved her head as well, so their foreheads touched each other. Mina felt it was the perfect time to have the first proper kiss of the day. Her girlfriend's lips looked as kissable as always, and she wanted to make Chaeyoung believe her words. She did not have to initiate anything, though. No chin lifting, no asking, because she could see Chaeyoung staring at her lips as well, thinking the same.

Ah, she loved when Chaeyoung kissed her on her own. The junior moved her head slowly and so naturally, reaching for her
lips, she grazed them slightly and was about to catch them, when they got interrupted.

"No, no, no! No fooling around at school," Momo said as she approached them. "Put it in the protocol, immediately." She moved one of the chairs from the group tables and sat in front of them uninvited. "Oh, man, you are actually writing stuff down." She noticed the paper on the table and shook her head.

Mina had to bite her lip in frustration at the interruption, but she smiled at them. All three friends of Chaeyoung were there. She knew they had to get along, it was
important for Chaeyoung, it was okay.

Chaeyoung immediately took the paper away before Momo could meddle with it. "Of course we are," Chaeyoung frowned. "Why are you guys here?"

"Momo wanted to be annoying and check your protocol," Tzuyu answered rolling her eyes and pointing at Momo. "Dahyun wanted to give you something." She pointed to her other side.

"Right, yes," Dahyun said and struggled to search in her bag. "Here, Chaeng," she handed her a folded piece of paper

"What's this?"

"Uh, well, I—"

"She made us work!" Momo whined complaining as she laid her head on the table, indicating her frustration. At that, Tzuyu used a hand to caress Momo's head, running her fingers through her hair. Mina noticed the gesture. She smiled to herself. It was intriguing to her how different Momo could act for everyone else and how she acted around her friends. She had also noticed how much she loves to interrupt people.

"It was fun," Tzuyu answered smiling.

"Well," Dahyun continued as if nothing, probably used to those interruptions. "I guess I should have given it to Mina, but, you can decide if sharing— uh, it might be good if you go through it together—"

"Chaeng's annoying habits that we love?" Chaeyoung read aloud as she unfolded the paper.

"That was me," Momo raised her hand and laughed against the table. Tzuyu messed with her hair as if scolding her. 'huh' Mina thought.

"We just gathered different aspects to consider when around you, usually the ones you forget and come in handy to know," Dahyun explained. "We are used to them but Mina might need some guidance, so this could help with your protocol, it could be a subheading or something."

'guidance' Mina repeated in her head. She could only give a fake smile as an answer. What was this? Was she seeing things or why did it all feel... not genuine? Guidance? She did not need assistance to treat her girlfriend. Maybe she was reaching...

"Ah, thanks guys," Chaeyoung seemed pleasantly surprised.

"Mh, it was all Dub," Momo said as she sat normally again. "Although I came up with some really good ones."

Chaeyoung chuckled and folded the paper. "Well, thank you Dub."

"Always," she answered and smiled back. "We should go now."

"Oh, physics," Tzuyu groaned and turned to leave, followed by the other two girls. They were gone as quickly as they had appeared.

What was possibly meant as a nice gesture, was making Mina's blood boil. Had she always been this... jealous? Or did she have good reasons? Did she?

Seeing Chaeyoung all happy staring at the piece of paper was not helping. Oh, Mina was mad. What were the possibilities of her offering to make a list and Dahyun already making one? 'use it as subheading? This is our protocol' Okay... maybe the information gathered could be helpful for her, but why did she feel it all so... backhanded?

Maybe she needed to calm down, but Dahyun had been her crush for years, and she knew her more than anyone else. Did Mina stand a chance? Was she even suitable for the position? Had Chaeyoung really forgotten about her? Ah, Mina's confidence from this morning was starting to fade.

"I do have physics," Chaeyoung nodded. "I should go, the bell is about to ring. Would you like to continue this after school? We could go to my place."

"Oh, I can't," Mina blurted out. But she could. She just talked without thinking. She was afraid. 'take that back, don't do this'

"Oh, then maybe—"

"No, wait!" Mina snapped out of it. Ah, she was embarrassed. "I can, I would love to, I just got dates mixed up, yeah." She did it. She knew she couldn't let bad thoughts win. Besides, if she worried about Dahyun, then she just needed to be even closer to Chaeyoung, right? Oh, she felt stupid.

"Awesome," Chaeyoung smiled and got up. "Main door at five?"

"No west door?" Mina asked feeling the butterflies again, she had to keep her anxiety away.

"Of course not," Chaeyoung frowned slightly and smiled again, displaying her dimples in such a cute way, that Mina wanted to kiss all over her face. "There is nothing to
hide."

Mina looked down, trying to keep it together. Chaeyoung was simply an expert at saying what she needed to hear in that exact moment. An expert at making her feel wanted. She felt like kissing her again, she wanted to kiss her so badly! But she was not sure how Chaeyoung would take that, she would have to ask later. It was all so new and she wanted to do right.

"I'll be there," she replied. They took their different paths for class and spent the rest of the day hoping for classes to end fast.

At least Mina did. She wanted to keep discussing the protocol, she wanted to keep being close to Chaeyoung. Every moment next to her was worth living. She knew she was down bad for her, but she adored the feeling. She hoped they never stopped feeling like this.

The problem for Mina was her own insecurities, her mind kept warning her about this. Was it too sudden? No, of course not, they knew each other for a while now. Could she trust Chaeyoung? Yes, she trusted that girl more than anyone. Right? She had wanted this for longer than Chaeyoung. To be hers, to hold each other romantically, to be close. Was that bad? The fact she had realized she wanted this before Chaeyoung did. What if she backed down? God, Mina felt like she was losing her mind. All she wanted was Chaeyoung and she did not want to lose her, she did not want to mess this up, she was not going to be able to handle heartbreak again.

Maybe all she had to do was be honest. Chaeyoung had shown her before that she could be a great listener. Maybe bottling her insecurities was not going to do any good. 'she wants to take care of me' Mina believed that. It was settled. She had to be honest.

This day for Mina was one of completing milestones. Approaching Chaeyoung and her friends on her own, walking down the hallway with another senior who does not hate her guts, kissing her girlfriend at school, and now... meeting at the main door. Like a couple. A real couple. Sure they were not going to walk home holding hands but the fact that Chaeyoung was willing to try in the near future, made her feel all giddy. Having her by her side was enough.

"Okay, then, bye losers," Momo waved goodbye after making sure who needed a ride today and who didn't. Mina felt like an outsider, it was her first day seeing the friends' routine, she felt as a watcher, but it did not feel awkward. It felt... experimental. Educational even.

She saw Momo walking away to her parked car and Tzuyu catching up after saying goodbye too. She linked her arm with Momo at the same time she pushed her away with her body. It felt nice to observe and deep down, she hoped to belong someday.

She felt someone tucking from her sleeve, she turned to find Chaeyoung raising her brows at her. "Let's go," the girl said. Yes, they were walking to Chaeyoung's home. Dahyun and Angelo had already started walking, she could see them a few meters ahead, holding hands and talking.

"Yeah," she finally talked and started walking. She had got distracted analyzing the dynamics of the group. "Are you sure we can go to your place?"

"Yes! I am certain," Chaeyoung said almost frustrated. "Please don't worry about it."

Mina nodded and they kept walking. She had made this walk before, more than once. But it had never felt this right. One thing remained the same: the anticipation of kissing Chaeyoung.

When they got to the house, Dahyun and Angelo sat in the living room, discussing if ordering something to eat or preparing, they looked... cute. Mina felt silly for how she had reacted earlier. Yet, she couldn't get the feeling out of her mind.

"Come on," Chaeyoung hurried and jogged upstairs. Mina felt embarrassed. When they had lessons, Chaeyoung would make sure she was alone in the house. But today, they were not and Mina couldn't help but feel a bit shy. It was quite hard for her to accept that it was fine for her to just be there. As Chaeyoung's girlfriend.

On the other hand, her girlfriend couldn't be more certain of it. The excitement so evident in her face of finally being alone was so sweet and, honestly, hot. It was similar to the way she had shown herself eager to learn, but way better. This had to be a dream.

"Hi," Chaeyoung said when Mina crossed the door to her room. The space was as clean as ever.

"Hi," Mina answered just to keep the salute game going... she wondered if Chaeyoung noticed it. It was cute nonetheless.

"We can kiss now," Chaeyoung looked at her smiling so wide, her eyes looked tiny and bright.

"That's why you invited me?" Mina
joked. "I thought we had work to do."

"No, yes, but, we can ignore it for a while, can't we?"

"Ah, you are so cute!" Mina felt frustrated. She left her backpack on the floor next to the bed and approached Chaeyoung. "Kiss me, then," she challenged her just because she wanted to see her doing it.

Chaeyoung nodded. "I have to leave the door open, though."

Mina chuckled "Yeah?"

"It's one of the new rules," Chaeyoung dismissed. "But I don't mind. I can still kiss you."

Now, Mina was hearing too much, but not seeing any action. Was she going to kiss
her or not? She had no idea why but she enjoyed teasing Chaeyoung like this. Lessons were lessons, she had had to be a good instructor and show first, now she wanted to see the results of her hard work.

She didn't answer, just waited. Chaeyoung seemed to caught on that and tucked from her sleeve once again, guiding her to sit on the bed. Surprisingly, Chaeyoung didn't simply make her sit and kiss her there, but she got on the bed positioning herself behind Mina, where she supported her chin on her shoulder.

Mina smiled but wondered what were her intentions. "Comfy?" she asked.

"Mh," Chaeyoung nodded on her shoulder. "I like this position. That is why I asked you to be my girlfriend like this."

"Yeah? Why do you like it?"

"I thought about different ways to make it easier to ask you... and I came up with this position. It was a risk to try it then but it worked. I like it because it is easier to talk to you while still having you close."

"That's clever."

"Thank you," she took the compliment. "I also happen to like the way your hair smells."

"That's... not creepy," Mina chuckled.

"I mean it," Chaeyoung insisted. "Smells are tricky for me, I love that I like how you smell." When she said that, she moved her head closer to Mina, slightly smelling her hair against her neck. "Mhh."

Now, Mina laughed softly. Not because she wanted to mock Chaeyoung, but because it was easier to disguise the true feeling felt as that. Having the girl so close to her like that, sent shivers down her spine.

That's when Chaeyoung decided to get bold. Or maybe, just decided to do whatever she felt like it, as usual. Don't misunderstand, Mina loved it. The girl used a hand to move the hair falling down her shoulders aside, leaving access to her neck. Chaeyoung scooted closer and nuzzled against it.

The action, so tender, so gentle, surprised Mina and made her feel soft, yet... excited. The fact that she was sure Chaeyoung was not trying to get a reaction out of her, just genuinely enjoying having her there, was extremely alluring as well.

In her own world, Chaeyoung kept nuzzling against Mina's neck, as she closed her arms around her body, hugging her tight. "Pretty," she said.

Mina's heartbeat increased considerably. She felt nervous. Her cheeks grew red and she couldn't help the way her body wanted to react to Chaeyoung's touch. On queue, the girl left a long kiss against her neck, and another one half kissing her neck half kissing her blouse collar.

"It— isn't this a bit too risky for a door-opened policy?" Mina managed to ask trying to keep her cool.

"Why?" Chaeyoung asked still against her neck. "I'm just kissing you."

"Precisely," Mina said.

"Should I stop?"

'ah, no, no, not at all' Mina did not want that, it was not like that. "No, but—"

"Then no," Chaeyoung said. And just like that, she kept kissing Mina's neck over and over again, softly, gently, nuzzling and holding Mina's waist.

It was surprising how much Chaeyoung had learned or how much she was capable of. It was charming and so damn arousing Mina had less control over these instances every time. Besides, hearing Chaeyoung leave words as pretty, mine, and soft hums against her neck, drove her crazy.

"Mhh Cute Dimples." Mina had to stop this.

"Yeah?"

"Can we talk?"

"We can."

"Okay, good, because—"

"But I don't want to." 'oh, right' Mina should know better than to ask can instead of the proper word.

Well, she tried. Enough was enough. She moved abruptly and turned around, looking at Chaeyoung directly in her eyes before lifting her chin and pressing her lips against hers. 'a girl can only handle so much'

Mina kissed Chaeyoung fervently, leaving her chin and pulling from her tie. How she had missed that. What was stopping her from caving in to her real desires and feelings if Chaeyoung, her girlfriend, was feeling the same? Besides an opened door that is.

"Oh," Chaeyoung said in between kisses. The genuine surprise made Mina smile against the kiss and she had to stop.

"You started," she said softly.

"This feeling?"

"Yes," Mina could see Chaeyoung was almost analyzing everything. She was happy to be part of the experiment.

"Then... if I kiss your neck, you react like this?"

"Most probably, yes."

"Awesome," Chaeyoung said. Mina could not believe this girl. Ah, she liked her so damn much.

"You know this is not a lesson, right?" For a second, Mina feared.

"Of course," Chaeyoung frowned a bit. "Still, I enjoy learning with you like this."

"Good," Mina nodded, feeling relieved. "Let's learn more, then."

"You too?"

"Of course me too," Mina said softly and kneeled next to Chaeyoung on the bed, still holding her tie, fidgeting with it. "I taught you how to kiss and stuff but I don't know everything... I have to learn what you want and what you like as well."

"I'm quite good at saying what I like," Chaeyoung nodded.

"Good," Mina said softly and leaned down to kiss her girlfriend again. This time, slowly.

They laid down on the bed, kissing so naturally, Mina loved the sensation of kissing without the thought at the back of her mind constantly remembering her they were on a lesson and that it was not real. Now the thought kept repeating to her how real this was.

Nothing better than a make-out session to make her forget about her fears. Chaeyoung felt so warm and cozy like this.  Also, it was not something Mina paid much attention as Chaeyoung did, but since she had mentioned it, it stuck with her, and yes, she also loved the way her girlfriend smelled. It was not sweet, it was rather... fresh.

Mina couldn't help but sniff a bit against her neck as Chaeyoung had done when they stopped kissing and just snuggled closer. Mina was on her side, with one leg above Chaeyoung's legs. She was so comfortable, she was sure she belonged there. One of her arms, resting still fidgeting with Chaeyoung's tie.

"Cute Dimples," she broke the silence remembering she had to be honest about her feelings.

"Mhh..." Chaeyoung seemed rather sleepy or way too relaxed.

"I just wanted to say that... I am a hundred percent committed to this," Mina started still fidgeting with the tie, it helped her nerves. "But, if I ever seem not to, I don't mean that... uhm, it's all a bit scary that's all." She tried her best to explain something.

"Just a bit?" Chaeyoung asked.

"Yeah... a bit scared."

"Mh," Chaeyoung nodded. "We can deal with a bit of that, as long as it is just a bit."  The younger girl did not question any further and used a hand to caress Mina's hair, bringing her closer to her body.

Talking to Chaeyoung honestly always felt like such a relief. The girl truly unburdened her and she couldn't be more thankful for having someone like that in her life. They stayed like that for a while, Mina couldn't be certain but she was sure they had fallen asleep for a few minutes.

Chaeyoung groaned her sleepiness away and moved to sit slightly on the bed, making Mina move and stretch her arms as well.

"Okay," Chaeyoung said. "I'll type it for you." She got up and walked to her desk, where she sat and opened her computer. She moved the chair to the side, reaching for her red backpack. She grabbed the drafted protocol and Dahyun's paper.

Mina pursed her lips for a second but then shook her head and sat by the edge of the bed to be closer to the girl. "All of it?"

"Yeah, I like typing."

"Put images."

"Why?"

"I'm a visual learner."

Chaeyoung chuckled and tilted her head thinking. "Okay, I'll include a design."

"Yes!" Mina celebrated and stood up behind Chaeyoung's chair, hugging the girl and leaving a kiss against her head.

"Mina?"

"Yes, sweetie?"

"Do you think you could bring me fruit from downstairs? There should be sliced apples in the fridge. Those are mine."

"Of course." Mina found it adorable that she wanted to have something to eat while working. Was that actually adorable? Or was it the effect of liking her girlfriend so much?

She headed downstairs happily. She knew her way around now, she had stayed for dinner a couple of times and even helped to clean up after, which was... new. She never did any of that, but it was a good kind of new.

She entered the kitchen only slightly shy of running into someone. She opened the refrigerator and searched for sliced apples. She found that there were various plastic containers with different foods inside. 'Now, which one has the apples...' Mina crouched a bit to see the insides better.

"Ah, grapes or apples?" Dahyun entered the kitchen and took Mina by surprise. She grabbed two glasses and walked closer.

"Apples," Mina answered already feeling annoyance creeping in.

"Top left container," she said pointing with one of the glasses. "All red containers are Chaeng's. Usually in alphabetical order."

Mina didn't say anything, simply took the one and nodded as she closed the refrigerator door. She felt it was appropriate to give thanks in a situation like this. Yet, she refrained from it.

Dahyun poured water into the two glasses she had taken. Mina was about to leave without a word when the silver-haired junior talked again. "You should take honey with you," she said pointing at one of the jars on the counter. "She loves apples with honey."

'Of course, honey, how could I not know every single detail of my girlfriend's life?' Mina had to bite her tongue. "Just apples," she said. "Thank you." Ah, maybe being polite was not going to hurt. She left immediately after that. 'god' She was not crazy, right? Yeah... maybe she could be a bit jealous but this... felt different. She felt the girl provoking her, not helping. She wished she could ask someone, but Chaeyoung was out of the question.

"Look, how about this font?" Chaeyoung said excitedly once Mina got back to the room. "Well, I'm not gonna change it, so you have to like it."

Mina sighed in relief at being back there with a welcoming face. "I love it," she said without really checking if it was true or not. She left a kiss against Chaeyoung's head and positioned the opened plastic on her desk.

"Thank you," Chaeyoung smiled at her for the fruit. They stayed there for a while working on the protocol, it was not that long, but Chaeyoung liked to specify every clause. Therefore, they spent the time discussing about it. It was fun, Mina enjoyed giving her opinion, and she got to form an idea of how Chaeyoung saw relationships. Overall, it was a good view, except for the part that was altered by, apparently, many teenage romantic movies she had been binge-watching. Mina made a mental note to add a movie night to her list she owed her, with her own selection so she could cleanse her mind from fake teen reality a bit.

Although Chaeyoung told Mina to stay for dinner, she rejected politely. It had been a long and new day, she needed time at home alone to recharge her mind. Plus, she was not in her best mental state to have dinner with Dahyun at the same table. She only hoped lunches at school were okay and that everything was in her head.

Mr. Jung waited outside. Chaeyoung waved at him, Mina could tell they got along pretty well, it was a warming feeling that she could have never imagined. She kissed her girlfriend goodbye, with the clause of the protocol in mind we always kiss each other goodbye, no matter what.

"Was it good today?" Mr. Jung asked as he usually did when picking Mina up after classes. For the first time Mina could say
yes with conviction, actually meaning it.

The idea of taking care of Chaeyoung and being taken care of by her, brought such happy sensations to her, that she never expected to feel again. Although she felt scared and sometimes she couldn't trust her reactions and mind, she wanted to trust Chaeyoung fully. She was going to believe her promises, she was going to believe everything the girl expected and wanted for them, because for the first time, she felt she deserved that kind of love. She was going to make the best of this, even if it was scary.

Even if she had to start socializing again. Chaeyoung's friends were a whole other deal that came along with Chaeyoung's love. Mina didn't mind Tzuyu, she was the kindest of the three. She was fun, and nice and had never really said anything bad to her or about her. Dahyun was still a work in progress, she could not make up her mind about her. At first, when they saw each other sometimes after lessons, she always thought the girl to be nice and friendly, now... it felt different.

And Momo. Well, Momo. She knows Momo better. She knows how she acts around the other seniors, she knows her from the dance team, as she has had to work on various scenarios for them, being part of the decoration crew. Momo intrigues her the most. And somehow she feels that her approval is the last test for adapting to this new routine.

Of course, Mina knows is not necessary. Mina would say she does not need anyone's approval. Mina wouldn't act like she cared. But she did. She wanted, deep down, to feel accepted by her. Also, strangely, Chaeyoung seemed to respect her opinion quite a bit, it was sweet. Mina liked the way Momo talked and treated her girlfriend, rather than the way Dahyun kept sugarcoating everything for her.

She got to see more of that the next days immersed into their routine. Lunch was not that bad, and although she felt like an outsider, the feeling dissipated little by little each day. Also, during the mornings, she got to walk with Momo to their classrooms.

She couldn't say it was the best part of her day because that was being with Chaeyoung. But somehow, this simple walk came as a close second. She never expected to have someone, let alone, another senior to walk with her to class. Besides, Momo started talking to her.

With simples see you or good classes to asking about some subject's homework, it was a good feeling every time. She was not sure if Momo was forcing herself to do that, to talk to her, or if it was genuine. But she kept thinking that Momo was not someone to do something she didn't feel like.

It was not until one random morning almost a week passed since they started walking together, that she could confirm she had Momo's approval.

Momo had asked her about Math homework, then about Smoothie Sunday, and when they got to their classrooms, she did not only say see you or good classes, no. It was special.

"Okay, catch you later, loser!" The words left Momo's mouth so easily, it was unbelievable.

Mina smiled and she couldn't say anything back before Momo disappeared. Mina was left there in awe. She couldn't believe her ears. She felt so happy, it was embarrassing. It shouldn't mean this much to her. Oh, but it did. So simple, so friendly. She had missed that.

Then she remembered one of the clauses. We tell each other all the good and all the bad, so she texted Chaeyoung before reacting.

To My Chaeyoung
momo called me a loser!

Chaeyoung's response came immediately.

From My Chaeyoung
Oh
No, she didn't! I will have a word with her.

That was all Mina needed. She chuckled and shook her head. 'oh, sweetie' She didn't answer, she could explain later.

After all, they had time.

From My Chaeyoung
NVM! Tzuyu explained what you meant haha

And Mina finally started feeling like she belonged.

Chapter Text

Mina's room had always had the best illumination during sunset. That afternoon the soft glow had filtered through the sheer curtains, casting delicate patterns of gold and amber across the walls. The soft light made Mina's eyes glow the most beautiful brown Chaeyoung had ever seen.

Afternoons at Mina's place had happened more than once. Chaeyoung loved them. Being in bed next to her girlfriend, looking at the sun rays caressing her shape, highlighting her features, illuminating her hair... Chaeyoung was in awe every time. This was a sight she would never get bored of seeing.

She felt the air was too sacred, her breath short, admiring this little perfect moment, she knew the sun left fast, allowing for this golden light to be so precious. Naps were not something common in Chaeyoung's schedule, yet she had found herself falling asleep in Mina's arms more than once.

She had woken up a few minutes ago. Mina remained asleep. Her mouth slightly opened, the sun making her glossy lips shine. It was almost an invitation. One that Chaeyoung was having trouble rejecting.

Still having her head supported on Mina's arm that surrounded her, she moved slightly closer. Chaeyoung lifted her right free arm and moved it to softly trace Mina's lips. She had not been able to resist the impulse. Her heart went faster the moment she felt her girlfriend's mouth smiling against her fingers.

"Oh, hey..." Chaeyoung said softly, feeling caught.

Mina hummed and left a kiss against Chaeyoung's fingers. "Hi..."

The soft kiss made Chaeyoung smile. She removed her hand, but guided her arm to surround Mina by the waist. She had found that being close to Mina felt the most comfortable ever. She had been scared of struggling to get used to the proximity, yet she couldn't get enough of it. Chaeyoung never imagined she could become a clingy person. But these days, she couldn't get enough of Mina. Sometimes, snuggling her body closer barely felt enough.

Mina lazily groaned and moved her face to the side, catching Chaeyoung's lips without a warning. "How long did we sleep?" She only gave her a short kiss.

"Half an hour," Chaeyoung answered.

"It felt longer."

"Means you might have fallen into deep sleep or REM quickly, it can make a short nap feel longer," Chaeyoung said softly and moved closer, drawn by Mina's lips and breath against her face. She captured her girlfriend's lips softly.

"I love a fact after waking up," Mina mumbled between kisses.

"Do you?" Chaeyoung stopped kissing her and frowned, feeling this was valuable information. She had many facts.

Mina chuckled and stole a kiss before answering, "It was a joke, sweetie, but if you would like to give me facts when waking up, I would love it—as long as I still get kisses," she added quickly.

"Deal, then," Chaeyoung smiled widely, loving the idea. These days have been the most wonderful! Mina was her everything, she wanted to do everything with her, and she couldn't stop the feeling. She didn't want to stop the feeling.

The protocol has been working magnificently. They tell each other stuff, and she has managed to hold Mina's hand twice during this week. The first time was not good, but the second one went over a minute! Although... she had a motivation, there is no denying that. 'That ponytail must be holding in all her bad intentions like a dam' Chaeyoung tightened her jaw and surprised Mina by holding her hand out of the blue.

Im Nayeon. She was standing by one of her friends' lockers. She stopped talking and glanced at them with an expression Chaeyoung couldn't read, but decided to interpret negatively.

They, Mina and her friends, were walking together to get to the parking lot. Mina didn't notice the stare, as she was talking amicably with the girls. Chaeyoung, instead, who couldn't be more uninterested in their conversation, caught Nayeon's change of expression just in time.

Frowning, she grabbed Mina's hand, interlocking their fingers. She held it strongly, pulling from Mina and walking faster to leave the older girl's sight quickly. 'yeah, she is mine' Chaeyoung thought. 'and I'm not a kid'

"... okay, Chaeng?"

"Huh?" She shook her head and realized they all had stopped talking once outside the school building. 'oh' she looked around and then at their hands intertwined, she smiled. She let go of Mina's hand gently.

Her girlfriend only gave a tiny frown with a subtle smile. She was definitely going to ask her later what had happened, but she was grateful it was not a big deal now. Chaeyoung loved many characteristics of Mina, one of them being her intuitive personality, always perceiving her and knowing how to act.

The hallways at school had started to bother Chaeyoung more than the occasional uncomfortable. Estranged looks made her way whenever she was with Mina, and the whispers, although unintelligible, annoyed her a great deal. Still, Chaeyoung decided not to talk about it, because she knew her girlfriend would rather ignore it. For now, it was easy to ignore it, as she could simply fill her mind with Mina.

"Did you do your math homework?" Chaeyoung asked as she lazily groaned and stretched her arms, sitting on Mina's bed.

Mina lifted her body a bit too, she frowned as she fixed her hair, messy from their nap. "How do you know I had math homework?"

"I am doing Momo's homework, I was almost ready, but there is this one exercise that is confusing me."

As much as Mina wanted to mock perfect student Chaeyoung for admitting she was having trouble with an exercise, something she never expected would happen, she felt more curious about why on earth she was doing Momo's homework. "Sweetie, why are you doing Momo's homework? All of her subjects?"

"No, no," Chaeyoung said quickly. "Just her math homework. For a month. I needed a ride when I took you on our first date."

"Ah," Mina sighed, leaving out a laugh as well. "That's... smart." She reached for her blue backpack next to the foot of the bed, looking for her math notebook. "You can ask me now, you know?"

"You?" Chaeyoung accepted the notebook and started going through the pages.

"Well, Mr. Jung, but, yeah, me."

"I will have it in mind, but there is no need. Besides, I know Momo would have accepted either way, but she does need help with this, so."

Mina stared at the girl, seated on her bed, legs crossed, comparing both homeworks. She looked so genuine and gentle. Mina could feel her heart and stomach reacting at everything her girlfriend did or didn't.

"You really love her," Mina commented just to see what Chaeyoung thought about it. The past few days she has got to see them interact and, as she believed, Chaeyoung's friendship with Momo it's special. Momo is kind and hard on her. She treats Chaeyoung like she would anyone and it keeps Chaeyoung on edge. Mina enjoys their interactions.

"Of course," Chaeyoung replied as it was obvious. "I love my friends." She had been taught that.

"Cutie," Mina mumbled as she stared at the girl analyzing her homework.

"Ah, I see..." Chaeyoung said and scratched her nape. "I should have known."

"Sweetie," Mina said, getting closer and taking away her math notebook from her girlfriend's hands. "You are supposed to be a junior; it's okay if you missed one exercise."

Mina could tell Chaeyoung felt genuinely annoyed at her mistake. That is why she tried to reassure her and left a small kiss on her forehead.

The kiss made Chaeyoung smile, yet she really felt annoyed at her mistake. Now that she had understood, she could tell it was so easy; she was disappointed at herself.

"But I really should have known," Chaeyoung complained and made a face.

"Ah, don't let this affect you, come here," Mina said as she sat in bed again and pulled Chaeyoung closer.

"Cheering up kisses?" Chaeyoung asked before allowing her body to be pulled down.

"Mh hm," Mina nodded, her arms surrounding Chaeyoung's neck. At the confirmation, Chaeyoung followed and allowed the kisses to happen.

Kissing like this lately brought the strongest sensations in her. Mina could be kissing her the most tenderly, caressing her nape the way she liked, or just being all soft with her, yet her thoughts couldn't help but wander. There was this physical heat she had felt before that was almost unbearable.

Almost. Because she could resist it, it only made her girlfriend more and more desirable each time. Of what? She was not quite certain what could calm this desire. Of course, she knew sex. But what then? Would it be gone? Will it always be this strong? She was full of doubts. And she couldn't quite differentiate if she was getting too fixated on it or if it was perfectly fine to be feeling like this.

She couldn't ask Dahyun, that would be weird and their trust is slowly getting stronger again. Angelo? No... that would be similar. The most obvious answer, she thought, could be asking Sana and Jihyo. But she already owed them and that scared her...

Now... asking Mina. That could for sure be helpful. But a whisper at the back of her mind told her that could be lame. And Chaeyoung didn't want to be lame. She was cool. She could figure this out. It was not such a big deal; she kept coming to that conclusion. Yet, this same pattern and sensations had started to take a lot of space in her mind. And when her mind is full of something, there is no space for anything else.

She kissed Mina deeper, allowing her girlfriend to sink her fingers more into her hair. Somehow, Chaeyoung loved how Mina's hands pressed and guided her head. It was steady and certain. She loved it.

Mina left her neck and moved her hands to hold her by the waist. It was good. Really good, but it caught Chaeyoung unprepared. "It— It tickles," Chaeyoung mumbled, moving back, stopping the kiss.

Mina left a short sigh and smiled at her. "It's okay, sorry."

Chaeyoung couldn't register how Mina felt at that moment, but her voice seemed genuine, so she didn't look into it further. Besides, according to the protocol, if there was something wrong, they would discuss it.

"Should we give you a ride now?" Mina asked, getting up and putting on a jacket. "I'll text Mr. Jung."

"Sure," Chaeyoung nodded and collected her things. Another amazing afternoon together coming to an end. It was not her favorite moment—the leaving part—but it was necessary.

Rides with Mr. Jung were pretty awesome as well, so that was a good motivation. Mina would always accompany her and kiss her goodbye at her door. Just a little kiss with the briefest hold of her chin. Just perfect.

At home, things were also good. But not as good as being with Mina. Nothing was as good as that. Chaeyoung had realized half of her thoughts were always about Mina now. Was that bad? She could not be certain.

At home, it was the tiniest bit awkward with Dahyun. She hated it, but she couldn't stop it or change it, not so fast. Their last interaction went like this: Dahyun had tried to spend time with her, but Chaeyoung snapped.

"I bought the good popcorn," Dahyun had said to her. "Should we watch something?"

But the truth is that Chaeyoung didn't feel like spending her time in silence next to Dahyun. The idea sounded wrong in her head, as much as she had loved that in the past. "No, thank you."

"Come on, Chaeng," Dahyun tried. "I don't want us to be like this from
now on."

"I know, I know," Chaeyoung said. Of course, she didn't want that either, but it was not as simple; she felt hurt. "I'll forget about it, just—"

"You won't forget about it."

"I will, I am just saying that—"

"You won't forget about it, Chaeng, I know you," Dahyun insisted.

"You don't know everything about me!" Chaeyoung felt terribly frustrated at that exchange. She was trying for real to not be awkward around her best friend when it was just them; she really wanted not to feel betrayed, but this got on her nerves.

"Of course I do," Dahyun said, trying to get closer, to which Chaeyoung backed away. It was not good.

"No, no you don't!" Chaeyoung deep down, knew what Dahyun meant, and from outside, yes, she knew everything about her, but it bothered her greatly how she was talking with authority. Regardless, she breathed in deeply and managed to keep it together. "I won't forget about it," she said, acknowledging what was said before. "But I will put it aside, just not now." That was all she could answer and left for her room.

It was not like that all the time. Since Dahyun apologized, things were good, but it was when Dahyun tried to be exactly like before that Chaeyoung couldn't yet. She just needed time; it's not like she didn't love her best friend anymore.

Leaving that subject behind, another woman in her life was also bringing data to her already overloaded brain. You could say she was handling it well for now, though.

"Chaeng," Her mother knocked on her bedroom door one day. "Could I come in?"

"Sure," Chaeyoung said from her desk. She was erasing her board to update it. One of the top three favorite things to do at home, along with training and making out with Mina, a new entry, of course.

"Listen, honey," her mother said and grabbed her shoulder for a second before sitting on the edge of the bed. "We should talk for a minute."

"Sure," Chaeyoung repeated, not really stopping what she was doing.

"Son Chaeyoung..." The calmness and intonation of her name being said like that, she knew perfectly well.

She stopped and turned around in her desk chair. "I am listening now," she said. "Well, I was also listening before..." She didn't continue explaining, seeing the expression on her mom's face. She shut her mouth.

"How are you?"

"I am good." Chaeyoung felt a bit impatient. But she knew her mother had a bigger reason to talk to her than just asking about her well-being.

"How is Mina?"

'Ah, Mina's well being, then' Chaeyoung thought. "She is great." A smile formed on her face.

"Honey, do you remember what I told you when you started dating?" Her mother sounded more serious now.

Chaeyoung frowned. Of course she did. "Which part?" She remembered everything.

"Good, so you remember everything, then?"

"Of course," Chaeyoung smiled and felt slightly entertained that her mother was testing her.

"And... do you remember what I used to tell you when you were younger, whenever someone would pick on you?"

"You have said many things," Chaeyoung answered, looking up as if remembering. "I could tell you many pieces of advice that you have given me, but I don't know which one you mean now."

"I used to tell you not to make it easy for them, remember?"

"Ah, yes," Chaeyoung nodded. See? She remembered, it was just a broad question. "You told me to be careful who I hung out with, careful who I showed myself to, and careful who I trusted."

"Good," her mother said again. "Now, I need to say this again to you. Mina and you, don't make it easy for them, yeah? People are not kind."

Chaeyoung looked at the floor and tilted her head. She fidgeted with her fingers, thinking. "Mmh, I know people are not kind at all, but... what do you mean this time?"

"The same be careful from before, honey," Her mother explained. "Be careful who you show yourselves to, who you trust."

"Ah, I see." Chaeyoung lifted her head. Yeah, that made sense now. Her mother was worried. Chaeyoung knew people could be really mean; she had learned that from a young age. And later she learned about homophobia as well, she has never experienced it (Dahyun didn't count, right?), but she was very well aware and she found it simply ridiculous. "Mom, I know this, you don't have to worry. Besides, I can't even hold hands properly."

Chaeyoung said this last part without any intention or sadness; it was just that. Yet, she could tell it was not well received by her mother.

"Oh, honey," Her mom said with something Chaeyoung registered as care. The woman got up and walked to touch her shoulder again. Chaeyoung liked that contact. She looked at the hand. "Have you talked to Mina about your autism?"

"Mmh..." Chaeyoung doubted. Had she?

"Directly about it," Her mother clarified.

"Ah, then no," Chaeyoung shook her head. She had the bad habit of assuming everyone knew or wouldn't care about it.

"You will, okay?" It was not a suggestion. "I know you feel it is the same either way, but it isn't. People, and especially people who care for you, appreciate it when you explain to them something that's important about you or see that you appreciate them enough to share."

Chaeyoung sighed. She had to obey; it was that simple. She didn't have any issue explaining, but she didn't feel like it. She felt it like a burden. "Do you really think I have to?"

"She will appreciate you opening up like that, I promise."

"How do you know?"

"Because I've seen Mina," Her mother explained. "She has kind eyes."

"How are kind eyes like?"

"They look at you without judging you," she said. "You will feel it, honey."

"Alright," Chaeyoung sighed again. It was not that of a hard task; on the contrary, for Chaeyoung, it was unnecessary. But she had to obey, and if her mother thought so, then it probably was a good idea. Then she remembered something she had been meaning to ask. "Mom," she called before the woman could leave.

"Yes?"

"Could I have permission to stay over at Mina's after smoothie Sunday?"

Her mother looked at her for a few seconds before answering. Chaeyoung almost felt she had to ask again. "Mo—"

"Uhm," The woman said before she could ask again. "What about school?"

Certainly, Chaeyoung had already thought about school. How could she forget? She had asked Mina the same when she was invited. "Mr. Jung will take us, he is punctual all the time, just like me, it's refreshing."

Her mom smiled and looked down, reflecting on this. "Is this something you truly want?"

"Yes, of course."

Chaeyoung heard how her mother released a big sigh, then said, "Okay, but I will need Mina's number and you will give mine to her, yeah?"

"Yes, yes, yes!" Chaeyoung nodded eagerly. "That is no problem, thank you, Mom."

Excitement. Chaeyoung had really thought about this. She was scared at first, but honestly, what could go wrong? She ignored how her mother looked troubled and got immediately back to her board.

"Smoothie Sunday..." she wrote first before anything else. With a big smile, she added, "Mina." Right under it. Ah, she felt her stomach moving.

To Mina
I have news!

She felt so excited that she didn't even finish completing her board. The important dates were already there. She moved to her bed, sitting by the edge. She was waiting for an answer. She had learned not to call all the time since she saw all those movies and all, but she appreciated how Mina knew she liked calls.

She answered as soon as she saw the name on the screen.

"Guess what?!"

"Hi, honey," Mina's voice vibrated against her ear. 'honey'

"Hi," Chaeyoung said, remembering it was nice to greet before talking about other stuff.

"Did you find the candy you wanted?"

"What? No, no," Chaeyoung shook her head and got up to check her candy compartment by her desk. 'refill' She closed it and walked to her board to write the new reminder. "Bad guess."

"Okay, tell me then, I know you want to."

"Yes," Chaeyoung smiled. "I asked permission and I am allowed to stay over at your place this Sunday."

"Oh, are you serious?"

"When am I not serious?" Chaeyoung frowned. 'silly'

"That's amazing, sweetie, I can't wait."

"You have to," Chaeyoung said. "Ah, but I will need to give your number to mom is that okay?"

"No problem," Mina chuckled. Chaeyoung could imagine her covering her mouth. "Are you nervous, sweetie?"

"Nervous?" Chaeyoung frowned.

"Yes, well, you said how it is difficult for you to sleep somewhere else and that's also why I invited you over with spare time."

"Yes, but... It's not nervous... It's just that is difficult— but—"

"Okay, okay," Mina said. "No nervous, then. We will have a great time, sweetie."

Chaeyoung was not sure why this bothered her. "Yes, I will hang up now, bye."

Mina had tried teaching her that she should wait to hear a goodbye before ending a call, and she does most of the time, but this time, she felt weird.

'I'm not nervous' she thought. 'should I be?'

She felt physically annoyed by this thought. Her neck itched. She scratched it in annoyance and walked around the room thinking. 'Should I?'

'am I?'

It was normal if she felt a little bit of nervousness, sure. She thought so. But Mina questioning it like that made her think she was missing something. Ah, how difficult.

She walked around the room a bit more and then found herself about to knock on Dahyun's door. Her raised hand closed in a fist and she turned around again. 'No, no'

She took her phone back in her room, ignored the unread messages on Mina's chat and did the best next thing.

To Momo
I will call you

She waited just a few seconds for an answer and pressed call. It was better than just calling, right?

"Hey, buddy," Momo answered faster than she usually did. 'mh, maybe a heads up truly works' Chaeyoung felt content by the efficiency.

"Hi, I have a question."

"Ah, wait..." Momo said, and Chaeyoung scrunched her nose at the rustling noise that came from the other side of the line. "Okay, you're on speaker, shoot."

"Wh—"

"Hi, Chaeng!" Tzuyu's voice echoed friendly.

"Ah, good," Chaeyoung approved this. More opinions. She loved friendship.

"What's your question?" Momo shout to be heard. Chaeyoung could hear the noises of the outside world. They were not in an enclosed space.

"Should I be nervous if I am staying over at Mina's place?"

Momo let out a whistle and added, "Staying the night?"

Chaeyoung had had enough of annoying noises after the whistle and put the phone on speaker as well. She sighed. "Yes, should I feel nervous?"

"Yes," Momo said.

At the same time, Tzuyu talked, "No—Ah, como on, Momo."

"Well, nervous enough, right?"

"Why?"

"Okay— look, we will be right over," Momo answered. "This is important. We will get in five."

"Five? Why are you so close?"

"We are walking the doggies," Tzuyu answered with a baby voice as if talking to the dogs.

"Oh, you know you can't bring them here." Chaeyoung was willing to forget this conversation ever happened if they were planning on bringing them.

"Come on, Chaeng," Momo tried. "They are adorable."

"And messy."

"Fine, I tried," Momo sighed. "Auntie Chaeyoung hates you all." She used the same silly voice Tzuyu had made. Chaeyoung rolled her eyes.

"Don't say the H word in front of them!" Tzuyu complained. "Don't listen, sweeties."

"Listen, buddy," Momo talked again and sounded closer on the phone. "We will drop them off at Tzuyu's place and get in a few more minutes then, yeah?"

"Good," Chaeyoung nodded. "Clean your clothes."

"Of course, okay, hang on."

The call ended, and Chaeyoung sighed, feeling a bit tired already, yet she felt grateful for this help. It was better than keeping everything in her head. She just hoped they really left the dogs at home.

***

"Chaengie's first sleepover," Momo sighed dreamily. "They grow up so fast."

Tzuyu finished locking Butter's harness and pulled from a distracted Kaya's leash, keeping her from smelling some grass. Walking the four dogs together is always a bit messy, but it's in Tzuyu's top three favorite plans.

"We've had sleepovers before."

"Yeah, all four of us, but I mean sexy sleepovers."

"Don't be that ridiculous when we get there, yeah?" Tzuyu glanced at her seriously. They were walking towards Momo's parked Jeep a block down.

"You know I'm right."

"Yes, but no funny wording!"

"That's no fun," Momo mumbled, looking down. Tzuyu smiled, thinking how she looked like such a kid. She enjoyed the way she messed with Chaeyoung. It was just her duty as a friend to try and stop her. She just did not try much. Not if it was harmless. Besides, pretending to be on the contrary of Momo was so fun, especially seeing the girl pout and make faces.

"Come on, hurry," Tzuyu trotted making both her puppies to go faster. Naturally, Momo's little beasts, Boo and Dobby, tried to catch up, making Momo almost lose balance.

"You always do that!" Momo groaned as she hurried in annoyance.

"You said we'll be there soon, if we aren't she'll scold us forever."

"Yeah, well," Momo shrugged. "At least this time you don't need a change of pants."

Tzuyu scoffed and frowned at her. "You know that's your fault! Not teaching them properly where to pee. Poor babies don't have a caring mother," Tzuyu baby talked to them.

Momo laughed at loud at the memory. Tzuyu ignored her. She didn't mind the dog marking his territory on her pants, things happen. Blaming Momo was fun, though.

Finally, they got to the car, drove to her house and left all four of them. They were used to being together and behaving quite nicely. Honestly, Tzuyu believes Boo and Dobby only behave like little devils when Momo is around. 'dogs resemble their owners, right?'

From Tzuyu's place to Chaeyoung is not long. They indeed got there quite fast as promised. Chaeyoung received them by looking behind their backs with a worried expression.

"We didn't bring them, goofus," Momo rolled her eyes at her.

"I was only making sure."

Tzuyu remembers the one time they brought them to their friend's house. Dahyun was thrilled; she wanted to play with them and no one considered Chaeyoung's reaction. She had never complained about animals before. How could they know?

Honestly, they should have figured, but it was not that easy to consider Chaeyoung's feelings all the time before. It comes naturally nowadays, you don't question why she would leave you talking alone sometimes if there was a weird smell around, or you would know better than opening a bag of Doritos in front of her.

The dogs were fine until Chaeyoung saw muddy paws and drooling tongues in her living room. She threw a whole scene, and they have never touched the Son's house since then.

The two of them followed Chaeyoung to her room. Tzuyu noticed Momo being conflicted for just a second before deciding to follow again.

"You can get juice later," she said to her.

"Yeah, no, it's okay, the curiosity is stronger."

Tzuyu shook her head and laughed softly. Once in Chaeyoung's room, Tzuyu expected something exactly as it happened. She had started to believe it was so routinely, it would annoy Chaeyoung more than the day it didn't happen.

Momo messily sat on top of Chaeyoung's perfectly made bed, crisping the edges. Tzuyu sat carefully next to her, trying to fix it with a hand.

Chaeyoung sent them one of her judgy looks but didn't say anything, just sat by her desk, turning the chair to face them. She was ready to chat, apparently.

"Aren't you forgetting something?" Momo said.

Chaeyoung sighed and turned on her chair to open a drawer. She took a package of Skittles and threw it at Momo. "It's my last one."

"How?" Tzuyu asked Momo, wondering how she had made their friend give her precious candy. Chaeyoung eats so healthily all the time; her candy is measured and valuable.

"I texted her saying our wisdom had a price."

Tzuyu rolled her eyes but offered her hand to get some of the candy as well. It was a good idea, actually.

"Alright, so," Chaeyoung said, waving her hands to get her friend's attention again.  "Nervous or not?"

"Just nervous enough, Chaeng," Tzuyu said. "Are you?"

"I thought I was a normal amount... Now I feel it more, oh no—"

"No, no," Momo stopped her from getting upset. "Come on, this is all relative."

"It is, Chaeng," Tzuyu tried to help, too. "Like, do you think Mina might expect more to happen?"

"More like..." Chaeng's frown grew in doubt.

"Excellent question!" Momo clapped. "You know, buddy... playing with adult legos."

"Wh—"

"Momo," Tzuyu frowned and suppressed a laugh.

"Okay, how about a little cardio session?"

"Now?" Chaeyoung's face couldn't be more estranged.

Ah, Tzuyu knew she should stop her friend, she was going to, okay? Just not immediately. She pressed her lips together, keeping her smile. 'stupid'

"Folding the sheets together! Dancing without the music! Uh... pressing all the elevator buttons!" Momo continued feeling proud of every occurrence.

The smile Tzuyu was hiding came to life in full size. She scratched her forehead, looking at Momo with surprise. How on earth did she always have something or somehow to mess with Chaeyoung so much?

The way Chaeyoung was not even able to provide a single answer or word was even more funny, she was just staring, trying to make something of Momo's nonsense.

"I got it!" Momo continued. "Unlocking level sixty—"

"Sex, Chaeng," Tzuyu decided it was enough and threw a pillow at Momo's head, who started to laugh at loud. "She means sex."

"Ah," Chaeyoung finally talked. She nodded her head and then gave a tiny smile. "Adult Legos, that is funny."

"See?" Momo pointed at Chaeyoung and complained to Tzuyu for having thrown the pillow. "We are all having fun."

It was true. Tzuyu smiled, seeing Chaeyoung smile and take it with the humor Momo had intended. It was quite smart how Momo would mess with her, then educate her. Yeah, Chaeyoung knew pretty much everything you have to learn at school and more. Momo made sure Chaeyoung also learned the unnecessary stuff.

The three of them were laughing softly when a tiny knock was heard, followed by Dahyun's head popping by the door.

"I thought I had heard your voices," she whined. "Come on, why are you still meeting in threes? Weren't we on good terms?"

"Yes, Dub," Chaeng said, still smiling. "This was improvised, please do not think otherwise."

"Can I join, then?" Dahyun asked getting inside.

"Depends..." Momo grinned. Tzuyu could already imagine Dahyun's red cheeks once she was up to date on their topic of discussion.

"On?"

"You can't be weird about it," Tzuyu replied. She knew Dahyun didn't mean any harm, yet the way she had acted toward Chaeyoung and everything since her confession annoyed Tzuyu a great deal. She was not letting anyone take the way she had reacted lightly. Chaeyoung has never doubted herself regarding her sexuality, and that was something Tzuyu admired. She was not letting anyone making her second guess herself.

"Why would I? Come on, scoot over," Dahyun said while pushing Momo more to the center of the bed.

Tzuyu could now feel Momo's warmth next to her. Momo looked at her and smiled as if saying, 'hi, missed me?' There was something that messed with her body every time she received those stupid smiles. She hit the girl's shoulder as if trying to push her back to her previous spot, but she left her hand inside Momo's jacket pocket after the punch, keeping her close.

"We are discussing the possibility of Chaengie's sex life changing," Momo nodded at Dahyun.

Indeed, as Tzuyu had expected, Dahyun's face could not hide her surprise. "Ah, that's cool," she said in the most unbelievable way with one of her giant smiles.

It was funny for Tzuyu to think she was not being awkward out of disgust or something, but rather out of awkwardness for her own doubts. Tzuyu and Momo promised not to question her or anything, but she was dying to.

"Yeah, exactly," Chaeyoung called their attention again. "So, why would you think this?"

"Wait," Dahyun said. "What's the context?"

"Mina invited Chaeng over this Sunday," Tzuyu answered.

"For the nighttt," Momo specified. "So our Chaengie was asking if she should be nervous and of what, therefore, the sex topic."

"Ah... naturally," Dahyun nodded with a serious face. "Naturally."

'dork' Tzuyu thought. She could not look more awkward right now. She was glad Chaeyoung couldn't tell. She sighed and stole the package of Skittles before throwing herself all the way down on the bed, resting against her back. With Dahyun here now, she didn't have to stop Momo anymore, her job was done, so she was listening to the conversation from her new position while munching on the candy.

"... then how can I know it might be an expected event?"

"You can just ask—"

"Shh!" Momo stopped Dahyun's speech, shushing her with an annoying finger rubbing her mouth and nose. Dahyun closed her eyes and sighed in frustration. "Asking is for dummies, forget that, Chaeng."

"Surely," Chaeyoung nodded and smiled at Momo.

Tzuyu had to admit that it was cute how much Momo complained about helping or about Chaeng's odd petitions, but she was way too interested in making her a mini her, and she just knew Momo loved every second that Chaeyoung trusted her wholeheartedly.

"First, ask yourself this," Momo continued. "How far have you gotten?"

"Far where?"

Tzuyu cackled from her position. She could not understand why Momo kept putting herself in this position; surely her friend did it on purpose, right? No one uses this figurative language around Chaeyoung but her. You might think she had learned her lesson by now, but Momo simply doesn't give up.

After like half an hour of Momo explaining the bases to Chaeyoung and Dahyun interrupting and correcting Momo's double meaning sentences, Chaeyoung finally understood that although it could be expected, it was not required, that being nervous was okay, and that only being there could tell her more. Their friend looked way more relaxed and confident for her date. Their job was done.

They went downstairs to share dinner and said goodbye after a while. It was already dark outside, and time to go. Tomorrow was a school day after all. Tzuyu was impressed Chaeyoung had not kicked them out sooner, but she guessed her priorities were slowly shifting.

"I can't believe you explained to her the bases," Tzuyu said while unfastening her seatbelt. They were parked by her house entrance. "That's like so sexist."

"What can I say?" Momo leaned down to rest her face against her arms surrounding the steering wheel. "I'm a bad boy."

"You are most definitely not a bad boy," Tzuyu laughed, looking at her. "You sure are a magnet for ones, though."

"Mhh," Momo stared at her back from her position. "What do you mean?"

"Are you... Not going to go out with that freakishly tall guy from Mina's class?" Tzuyu looked down at her hands while asking. As unapproachable as Momo likes to appear, it seems she only draws more attention. Tzuyu remembers every guy who has dared to ask her out. Tall guy being the last one.

"Ah, Taeho," Momo nodded. "No idea what gave him the impression he could do that. Kudos for daring to ask, I guess."

Tzuyu chuckled, still looking down. That was good to know. She preferred to change the subject, though. "Well, I hope everything goes well with Chaeng," she said, looking up again.

"Surely," Momo said as if it was obvious. "Mh, I can't believe that nerd has all this action while I remain with virgin lips."

"What are you talking about?" Tzuyu frowned and felt amused. "You've kissed people." She knows for a fact Momo's kissing history, plus they all tell each other everything.

"Well, nothing worth remembering," Momo shrugged. "Barely counts."

The way she said it so nonchalantly made Tzuyu's stomach weird. She felt the need to leave. What were they even discussing anyway? All silly talk.

"Come on," she said, opening the door. "They are waiting for you. Dinner time."

The remaining days until Smoothie Sunday were the usual. Tzuyu's routine was the simplest. She woke up, Momo picked her up, and at school, it all depended on what their topic of the day was or if they had any tests or homework. Those days, she didn't. Chaeyoung made sure to remind everyone. It came quite in handy to have a calendar for a friend

One thing that changed from her routine and the group's routine was the brief time Dahyun was not part of it, then again, and now Mina joining them on most occasions. The company of the girl was super well-received by Tzuyu.

Mina's presence made Chaeyoung a good different. She seemed more smiley and less worried about certain things. It was even funny to see her being surprised at her actions. Tzuyu could finally judge Mina on her own without others' ideas. She didn't seem at all like the girl everyone portrayed her as, which makes you wonder: How much credibility Im
Nayeon has?

Now, Tzuyu has barely crossed a word with her, maybe just a greeting, and only because of Chaeyoung's place at the council, because otherwise, Nayeon is only the student body president, and that's it. You see her around, and you hear the words perfect, correct, discipline, hot, bossy, and that is it.

The difference is that Tzuyu always got Chaeyoung's added commentaries on her. The previous ones being how amazing she was, the last ones being how a piece of trash she is. It was the biggest gossip ever. But they promised Chaeyoung not to tell anything.

Having that new information in mind, surely made it different to look at her. And if you paid enough attention, you could totally get it. Somehow, it made sense. Tzuyu feels kind of curious about Nayeon's feelings; she would love to get closer and push her out of her comfort zone. See what happens. Tzuyu would find joy in the drama of it all.

Chaeyoung had asked her and Momo to keep that they know this information a secret from Mina. Give her time to tell her herself, but it has been a while, and nothing has happened, she believes. Momo has not even made a mistake and given it away in front of Mina. Tzuyu wished something like that happened so they could talk about it. She does not think Mina would take it badly.

Actually, Tzuyu feels that they have all been getting along pretty well. Even Momo has told her much. How her senior friend enjoys walking with the other senior to their classrooms and how they get to discuss decorations for the next dance team presentation.

Momo has told her that Mina sounds genuine when talking about anything and that she approves of her relationship with Chaeyoung. Tzuyu does too. It oddly makes sense. You might not see it at first sight. But if you take a good look, you start noticing the little things.

How much they make each other smile. How Mina corrects certain mistakes Chaeyoung does with such ease and patience. How she listens to their friend, how they share looks and small touches. How shy Mina gets when Chaeyoung says stuff she probably shouldn't say in front of everyone, or no one says that bluntly. They look soft and healthy. 'they have a freaking protocol, come on'

Also, being Chaeyoung so correct and polite, having them around, even being all lovey-dovey at their own pace and ways, it's not uncomfortable at all. Tzuyu is glad she doesn't have a friend who would make you feel single by rubbing it against your face. She hates those couples.

That is why, when Smoothie Sunday finally arrived, she was looking forward to finally fixing their last shared meal there all together, where her tiny friend had tragically assumed Mina was her girlfriend without having asked. 'ah, Chaeng, you've come a long way'

This time, Dahyun and Angelo had been invited as well, so, to Chaeyoung's discontent, they had to drop their usual booth and sit on the only one that was a bit larger to fit all six of them. You could see it was not ideal for her by her reaction, but Tzuyu noticed how Mina somehow made her relax. When they sat, and she looked uncomfortable, Mina whispered her a few things and moved a hand to her nape. Tzuyu noticed how Chaeyoung went from pissed to smiley in just a few minutes. 'ah, Mina, where have you been?'

Since they changed booths, their usual arrangement did too. Now, the newly couple had a booth, the seats by the wall belonged to Dahyun and Angelo, and the other booth in front of Mina and Chaeyoung is where Tzuyu was sitting next to Momo, who was amicably chatting with Angelo about aliens, apparently.

"If they are not green, why have we been portraying them green this whole time?" Angelo asked.

"Surely some of them might be green," Momo nodded, sounding more serious than you would expect for this conversation. "But not all of them, we can't even know how they look, what if Chaeyoung's an alien undercover? I could totally see that."

At the mention of her name, Chaeyoung raised her head and frowned at her. "Momo, I am not an alien."

"That's exactly what an alien would say," Momo pointed at her and looked serious.

'what a kid' Tzuyu thought at the same time she hit her friend's leg with her own. Momo glanced at her, scrunching her nose for a second.

"But I'm not," Chaeyoung kept defending her humanity.

"Okay, Ms. I'm human," Momo said, leaning forward to her. "If one factory produces... 2,400 fries every 6 hours using 4 fry machines, how many fries would 6 machines in 8 hours working at the same rate?" She ended biting a piece of fry.

Chaeyoung looked at the fries in front of her and tilted her head. After five seconds, she said, "Four thousand eight hundred fries."

Everyone at the table chuckled at the situation. Momo looked pleased, and Chaeyoung frowned again.

"That's not very human-like," she kept teasing.

"You are holding a ketchup packet like a microphone," Chaeyoung accused Momo.

Momo laughed and leaned back on her seat. She turned to Tzuyu and held the ketchup packet in front of her mouth. "Anything to add to Alien Hunter Chronicles?"

Tzuyu laughed and held Momo's hand in front of her, acting as a mic. "Yes, you're ridiculous," she said, grabbing the ketchup mic out of her hand and opening it.

"Well, there you go."

After that, more of their order arrived. Milkshakes and more fries. Angelo got a burger, not without being judged by Chaeyoung. But Tzuyu could tell everything was going smoothly. Nothing out of the ordinary for tonight, apparently.

It was not until they started playing some preference games to get along and pass the time that Tzuyu noticed something was not right. Maybe she had taken a while to notice because since they had finished their food, Momo had relaxed on the seat and lifted her feet to rest on it, while also offering her back and weight to her.

It was usual for them to be close and tender with each other, all while fighting and insulting one another. True quality friendship. It was only a bit distracting to feel the older girl's laugh vibrating against her chest, or her shampoo as she had supported her chin on her head. 'chamomile'

The ambiance was right, their stomachs were full, so the remaining food on the table was growing cold. They had refilled a few sodas not long ago. The conversation was fun, and since they decided to look for some would you rather questions and go around the table, more than one story appeared, inviting laughter and cheerfulness.

"Okay, okay," Tzuyu said, reading from her phone. "Angelo, would you rather... switch lives with your best friend for a day or your enemy for a week? How random."

"Easy," Chaeyoung said.

"I bet," Angelo chuckled at her and offered a fist bump. Chaeyoung smiled and answered with a swift move. Everyone looked at them, entertained. "Enemy, for sure."

"Who even has enemies?" Tzuyu felt Momo laugh as she asked.

"Enemies are part of life," Chaeyoung said as if it were obvious.

"No..." Dahyun shook her head, also laughing. "That's— Ah, come on, my turn."

Since they were going around the table, it was indeed her turn. Tzuyu scrolled down and looked for a simple one. "Uh... would you rather fight one horse-sized duck or ten duck-sized horses? What? These keep being so random."

"They are fineee," Momo said, turning to look at her. She was so messily sitting that she was almost supporting her back against Tzuyu's legs. Somewhere between the table and Tzuyu's lap. It allowed Tzuyu a full view of her face whenever she would turn to look at her.

Tzuyu just used a hand to cover her mouth at the comment. Momo stuck out her tongue to annoy her. Tzuyu was unbothered by it. Her dogs did worse. She simply moved her hand, giving two soft slaps against Momo's cheek, reprimanding her. Still, mindlessly, she removed it caressing her friend's face with her fingertips. Momo smiled.

"Definitely the big duck!"

"What? Why?" Angelo looked at Dahyun with a big frown. Tzuyu felt it was indeed an odd choice. She glanced at Chaeyoung to see what the judge of everything felt about it. She also had a frown, waiting for an answer.

'cute' Tzuyu thought as she also noticed how Mina had obtained one of Chaeyoung's hands and was quite concentrated playing with her fingers. 'Chaeng's hands must be rougher than softer'

"Honestly, I just want to see a big duck," Dahyun said. "It will look so fun."

Chaeyoung shook her head, disappointed, and turned to look at her hand being massaged. She smiled softly.

"That's just crazy," Angelo also shook his head and sipped his heavily iced red soda.

Tzuyu felt Momo giving in on holding her weight against the table and lay fully on her lap, closing her eyes. It was getting late, so she figured it was okay to leave after this last round of questions.

"Okay, last three questions," She guided as they had started the round with Momo. "Chaeng, uhm... would you rather stay a whole day without your phone or stay the whole day completely alone?" It seemed like a fit question for her.

"Ah," Chaeyoung said and thought for a second. "I'd rather give out my phone."

"What? No way," Dahyun said with a fond grin. "You freak out without it, one time you locked it by accident in the car and called it torture."

"I remember," Momo said, lifting her hand and letting it fall again.

"Well, yeah," Chaeyoung didn't deny. "But that doesn't mean I would rather be alone."

'That's true' Tzuyu thought. She was ready to ask Mina her question, a random one a few sentences down. "Mina, woul—"

"Come on, Chaeng," Dahyun insisted, nudging her. "You say that, but you would totally hate it, don't you think?" She tilted her head, directing her question passed Chaeyoung, looking at Mina.

Tzuyu saw how the senior had stopped playing with Chaeyoung's fingers and stared at Dahyun with a puzzled expression. No answer. Something was wrong.

"I need space sometimes," Chaeyoung nodded, explaining without realizing the change in the mood. "That doesn't mean I like to be alone."

"Yeah," Dahyun answered again, not letting it go. "But you would prefer—"

"She just told you what she would prefer," Mina said more seriously than Tzuyu had ever heard her. Everything her friend's girlfriend said was always precise and soft spoken; this was serious. And awkward.

She moved uncomfortably on her seat. Momo opened her eyes, and they exchanged worried looks.

"I mean," Dahyun insisted, not showing regret or any reaction at Mina's words. "I just know her—"

"So does she."

'Tsk' Mina was right, and Tzuyu begged Dahyun would stop. 'come on, Dub, let it go' She had no idea what got into her.

"No, yeah," Dahyun replied, not realizing how entitled and obnoxious she was sounding. "It's just when you know Chaeng for a long time, you get things not even herself realizes."

Mina bit her lip and let out a half-sigh half half-laugh as she looked away. "Woah"

'Honestly, same' Tzuyu thought. She tried to send a look to Dahyun or something to make her stop, but the silver-haired girl didn't meet her eyes.

That is when she felt Momo lifting herself. She sat properly in the middle of the frozen conversation. No one said anything. She took one of the cold fries and ate it. "Come on," she said. "Let's go, I'll pay for everything, we can talk money later." She got up, making Tzuyu get up too, to allow her passage.

Momo had talked calmly but decisively. Their night was over. Tzuyu followed her steps with her eyes. The girl got to the register and indeed made the payment.

Mina had excused herself, disappearing to the restrooms. Tzuyu sighed heavily. "What's up with that?" She accused Dahyun.

"What?" She shrugged.

When Momo returned, with just a shared look, they both knew they were thinking the same. Dragging Dahyun out as soon as they could. Not without guiding a confused Chaeyoung, who appeared to be in deep thought first.

"Hey, Chaeng," Tzuyu called her attention. "You should go check on Mina, yeah? We will get going now."

"Yes, but we will text her goodbye and all," Momo nodded and used a hand to hold Chaeyoung's shoulder for a second. "We know you have a ride, so just let us know you got there safe."

"Yeah, enjoy your night, Chaeng." Tzuyu truly wished that. They had had a great time together until now, and she knew this night was important for their friend.

Their goodbye was messy and fast. Improvised on the spot so they could take Dahyun far away from getting into their friend's brain once again. They barely let her wave a simple goodbye, as they quite literally dragged her out, followed by a serious and sad-looking Angelo.

Chaeyoung was left there standing, feeling utterly confused. 'I... didn't do anything, right?' She scratched her head awkwardly as she saw her friends leave through the door. She knew it was late and they were almost ready to go, but she was not sure why it was so abrupt. Yeah, maybe Dahyun was being annoying, but she had always been like that with her. Saying what she believed was best for her. It annoyed her sometimes, like the other day at their house, but... was that it? She couldn't be sure.

At least, she didn't feel overwhelmed or tired, just confused. Maybe she had missed something, but the truth is she had been distracted all afternoon thinking about being alone with Mina later.

When she walked into the restrooms, Mina was drying her hands with a paper towel. "Hi, sweetie," Mina smiled at her as she threw the paper in the trash.

"Uhm, the girls left," Chaeyoung said, still confused. "Tzuyu told me to check on you, and Momo said she will text you."

"She did," Mina nodded. "Mr. Jung is a few minutes away. We can wait outside." She extended her hand to Chaeyoung.

Chaeyoung took it. She had made significant progress, and Mina's hand was becoming quite familiar to her. It makes her heart flutter more than it produces the usual uncomfortable feeling.

They left the diner hand in hand, and Mr. Jung indeed picked them up only a few minutes later. Chaeyoung greeted him happily. She still felt doubtful, though.

"Mina."

"Mh," She said. Her hand no longer holding hers but grabbing her thigh. Chaeyoung liked that.

"I know we left abruptly..."

"Yes."

"But, uhm, why exactly?"

Mina didn't answer. She looked out the window and started caressing her leg with enough pressure. Then she simply said, "Let's talk in a bit, yeah?"

Chaeyoung nodded. She would rather discuss things right now, and it was a bit uncomfortable, but she figured it was better to trust Mina and not become crazy about it.

Once at the house, they thanked Mr. Jung and said goodnight. It was around 10 pm, so they still had enough hours of sleep for tomorrow. The man said he would make sure they got to school on time tomorrow. Chaeyoung approved that.

As enormous as Mina's place was, her girlfriend always made her follow the same path to her room. Chaeyoung usually felt a bit curious about the other rooms, but not tonight. Tonight, she needed to talk to Mina and then enjoy their moments alone together, which she had been daydreaming about for a while.

Once the door was closed, Mina let out a big sigh and turned to look at Chaeyoung. "Hi," she said.

"Hi," Chaeyoung smiled, feeling butterflies starting to wake up. She wondered how long it would take for the butterfly sensation to turn into bigger animals.

"I texted Momo letting your friends know we got here," Mina said softly, getting closer to her. The girl took Chaeyoung's backpack from her hands and left it by the bed, returning to her position in a second. She was so close to Chaeyoung again, she felt expectant. "I also texted your mom, so you don't have to worry about anything..."

Now, Chaeyoung indeed felt butterflies turning into maybe lizards, or snakes, something with more weight, she was sure. It was not just the change in proximity, but also her girlfriend's caring acts. One thing Chaeyoung felt grateful for all the time was having to care less.

"Thank you," she barely got to say as Mina lifted a hand to hold her chin, and Chaeyoung's whole body felt weak. She knew perfectly well what that meant.

Mina's lips found hers gently. Just lips, familiar and tender. The kind of kiss that made Chaeyoung want to lean in and forget anything else existed. But then Mina tilted her head, deepening the kiss, and something in Chaeyoung ignited. Her fingers gripped the edge of Mina's shirt like she might fall without it. Mina's thumb brushed her cheek, grounding her as everything else started to spin.

Each movement grew bolder, lips parting, breaths catching, a rhythm forming between them, somewhere between tenderness and hunger. Yet, regardless of how skillful Chaeyoung had become at kissing and following Mina, something was different, and she couldn't catch up.

Mina's affectionate kiss felt more like a desperate one, not want but need. Chaeyoung felt slightly confused and struggled to keep up with the kiss, something Mina ignored as she tried to hold the girl's chin once more. Chaeyoung felt weird. She shook her head and took a step back.

"Something's wrong," she said, a bit embarrassed, hoping she had not messed up. It's not like she didn't enjoy kissing her girlfriend, because she did. Thoroughly. She just needed to feel sure about it.

Mina looked away. Chaeyoung found it strange because even if it was sometimes a task for her, Mina always tried to look for her eyes. It only brought more doubt to her head. It made her remember they should not be kissing, but rather discussing what had happened at the diner, and also, the talk her mom had requested her to have. She felt exhausted already.

"I've been wanting to kiss you all day," Mina said, still looking away. Then she turned to Chaeyoung, finally looking at her face. "I'm a bit embarrassed," she confessed. It always surprised Chaeyoung when Mina felt shy or similar.

"Why?" It's not like she could have said something else.

"Too serious, okay, no." Mina suddenly walked away and started arranging things. Moving Chaeyoung's backpack to a proper place, opening her wardrobe, and taking bags out. "Okay, cute dimples..." Mina said with a totally different voice from before. This one was her usual tone. Not even the tone Chaeyoung had noticed she used with her since they started going out.

Don't misunderstand, she loves cute dimples, but she prefers sweetie or honey these days. She felt downgraded.

"Why am I cute dimples again?"

"What?"

Chaeyoung pouted. She felt embarrassingly sad. Like a kid falling, crying from embarrassment rather than pain.

Mina looked at her, tilting her head, examining her face. "Oh, no, no," she said, going to hold her cheeks and attend to her. "No, honey, why are you sad? Oh, God, you pouting is— Hey."

"I don't wanna be cute dimples again," Chaeyoung tried to explain, yet she was not sure why it felt so painful. The only thing she was certain of was that she wanted Mina to reassure her.

"What do you mean, sweetie?"

"That," Chaeyoung answered, swallowing her sadness with a big breath in. "You have to use sweetie or honey, now."

Mina's face changed in understanding. She stopped holding her cheeks and pulled Chaeyoung in for a hug. A big one. "Silly," she said. "You scared me!"

Chaeyoung whined a bit against her shoulder as an answer, still feeling somehow hurt.

"You are my cute dimples, though," Mina explained in the tight embrace. "You will always be my cute dimples, okay, sweetie?"

Chaeyoung nodded against her shoulder again. She felt better already hearing my before cute dimples. It was definitely better. Not a downgrade.

Mina ended the hug and left a kiss against her forehead. "I'm sorry my tone scared you."

"It's okay."

"I needed to stop the seriousness for a bit, nothing else."

"Okay," Chaeyoung nodded, trying to understand.

"I was actually about to give you this," Mina pointed at the bags she had taken out of her closet. She offered her hand to Chaeyoung and pulled her closer to the bed. "Open this one."

Chaeyoung carefully took the gift bag and opened it. Inside, there was something white with a few red lines. She took it out of the bag, understanding what it was. "Is it for me?"

"Yes," Mina smiled and took the other bag, taking the same product, just slightly different in color, out. "I know you like soft pajamas, is this fabric okay?"

Chaeyoung smiled, feeling it. It was indeed a good soft. Not rough or unnecessarily cold. But soft and easily warm. "I think I love it, can I try it on?"

"Of course, sweetie," Mina smiled lovingly. "The one with red lines is yours, and I got a blue line version for me, see? We can match."

Chaeyoung loved the idea. She had learned about matching clothes in one of her movies. Ah, she definitely felt reassured. Mina was her all. "This makes me so happy," she said honestly.

"Look," Mina said. "Try it on and I will go get us hot chocolate as we had planned. We can discuss what we need to while having it, don't you think?"

"I accept," Chaeyoung nodded. She felt so... in love? She could not be certain, but she felt so, so understood and taken care of. Besides, she was glad Mina was not ignoring their pending conversation. A protocol worked wonders.

Mina left with her bag, and Chaeyoung immediately changed clothes. She folded her street clothes carefully, leaving them by a chair. She sat on Mina's bed.

It was odd to be there alone; she could feel it strange in her tummy. Yet, she felt good, anxious to wait, drink the hot chocolate Mina had promised, talk about whatever they needed to, and finally get more kisses. The last one was a must.

She used the time to look for her phone in her backpack.

To Mom
Good night, Mom
Mina got me new pajamas!
You'd love them

She also figured she needed to talk to her friends. Only she didn't feel like using the group chat.

To Tzuyu
Hey, did you guys get home?
I am doing okay
See you tomorrow!

Ah, yes, she set her alarm in case she didn't wake up. She put her phone back in her backpack and moved to sit on the bed again, legs crossed on top of it. The fabric of her brand-new pajamas really felt amazing.

Taking in everything that had happened today, good and bad, you could say she was doing okay. The prosper of sleeping all warm next to Mina kept her sane.

After a few minutes, where she prepared her script again to talk with Mina in a bit, her girlfriend got back. It was one of the most beautiful sights she had ever witnessed. Her girlfriend entered the room with a tray filled with their cups of hot chocolate, tasty tiny marshmallows, and some crackers. The girl was wearing her new matching pajamas, and her wavy, long blonde hair cupped her beautiful, smiling face. Chaeyoung's heart skipped a beat. 'wow'

"Hey," Mina said, leaving the tray carefully next to her and joining her on top of the bed after closing the door. "It's not as hot, but be careful, yeah?"

"Thank you."

It was sweet, warm, and soft. Words she could easily use to describe her girlfriend. Ah, she felt so comfortable. Only Mina could make her feel this great about sleeping somewhere else. She was amazed at how not worried she was. Was being too relaxed a bad thing? Not even her coming topic of conversation scared her. It was just a pending conversation. 'life is great'

"So..." Mina said, adding some more marshmallows to her chocolate. "Protocol demands I explain myself."

"Mh, yeah... I am a bit confused," Chaeyoung nodded. She blew on her hot chocolate to make it colder. They both had their legs crossed on the bed, one in front of the other, the tray in between them.

"The kiss, uh—" Mina's cheeks grew pink. "Well, I did want to kiss you."

"Me too," Chaeyoung hurried to add. She truly did, and she still feels like it. A lot. It was only a bit... confusing.

"But, I was indeed too intense about it, I am sorry it caught you by surprise."

"Was there any reason? I do like it when we kiss intensely, a lot," Chaeyoung said without shame. "This felt different, like anger."

"It's similar," Mina nodded. "I am... uh, I feel jealous, cute dimples."

This time Chaeyoung knew cute dimples was not being downgraded. But, jealous? 'what?'

"How? I mean, of what?"

Mina sipped her chocolate before answering, then said, "Well, of Dahyun."

Oh, Chaeyoung panicked. Words just left her mouth in a second. "No, no, I don't like her anymore, you have to believe me, I—I can't lie to you, I don't, she is my friend, and I like you and only you and—"

"Chaeyoung!"

"Mina."

"Breathe, okay? Let me explain."

Chaeyoung left her almost done chocolate on the tray and scratched her head and neck uncomfortably. She tried to calm herself and indeed took a deep breath.

"You guys... have been friends for a long time," Mina started explaining. "And things with her are different. You rely too much on her. I get that... but it makes me jealous."

"I don't like her, though," Chaeyoung clarified again. She felt she couldn't make this clearer enough. She was slightly panicking; she didn't want Mina to feel less. Never.

"I do believe you, sweetie," Mina said, noticing how troubled she looked. "I just do not trust her. She acts like she is entitled to anything regarding you, have you noticed?"

"I do get annoyed sometimes when she says stuff for me or assumes something about me..."

Mina, noticing Chaeyoung's thought process, decided to guide her reflection. "For example, today when..."

"When we were playing at the diner." Chaeyoung felt her brain working. This made sense. "Oh, is this why we left abruptly?"

"Yeah, honey."

"Oh."

"She treats you as if you couldn't make decisions for yourself, it annoys me a great deal," Mina explained everything now. "And it makes me jealous that even if she is wrong by doing that, she does know you better than anyone."

Chaeyoung thought about it. She did feel annoyed by Dahyun sometimes, but she had not taken into consideration the possibility of her actions being a bad thing or how Mina could feel about their closeness.

She decided to be honest about it. "I do get annoyed sometimes when she assumes stuff for me... I have complained before, but I never thought of it as a bad thing. If anything, I think I am used to seeing her as a guide, you know? Most of the time, she knows me better than I regarding myself."

"Yeah..."

Ah, Chaeyoung could see the issue clearly now. "That's not the case for a while, though. I have changed, and I am allowed to change. She... can't know how I feel now, or what I need or want."

"She knows stuff, though," Mina said, a bit annoyed. Chaeyoung could tell now. It was like a curtain had opened.

"Yes, but those are—" Chaeyoung scratched her head and stopped. She knew what she needed to explain now. It fitted the conversation perfectly, so much so that she felt excited for the very first time to share.

She knew exactly what Dahyun knew and what made her different from her friends and Mina. But that was so fixable. And Mina was her priority now.

"I need to tell you something," Chaeyoung said. She smiled. Mina left her chocolate aside, too. She looked at Chaeyoung with curiosity.

Chaeyoung moved the tray to the side and moved closer. She looked down. Even if she felt like sharing, it always made her feel awkward to say.

"Okay," Mina said softly.

Chaeyoung was nervous, and the words took a few seconds to leave her mouth. But there was no point delaying, and she wanted to explain to Mina.

"I am on the spectrum," she said. She didn't mind talking about it, but for some reason, it was always hard for her to say it like that. That is why her mom's request felt like an annoying task.

Mina chuckled and said, "Oh, but I know, honey."

"You do?"

"Of course, if you weren't on the spectrum, I would be really disappointed, you know?" Mina said.

"What?" Chaeyoung had felt good that Mina said she knew, but what?

"You're my girlfriend, if you didn't like girls, then how could we be together?"

Now, Chaeyoung looked up and opened her mouth to speak, but closed it. She was confused. She frowned. 'spectrum, girlfriend, disappointed' She tried to associate the words to understand what on earth Mina was talking about. She could feel the smoke coming out of her head when she realized.

"OH!" She smiled at the realization and laughed at Mina. "Not the gay spectrum!"

At that, Mina started laughing too. Chaeyoung caught her eyes were shiny, and she felt so in love with her laugh.

"Which spectrum, then?"

"The autistic spectrum," Chaeyoung explained, this time feeling lighter. Laughs were an amazing thing. "Well, I guess I am also on the gay spectrum, huh, I have never realized I am on two spectrums."

"Overachiever," Mina said and stole a quick kiss from her lips.

Chaeyoung smiled. She felt so safe, it was incredible.

"I am."

"I'm glad you told me this," Mina said now more seriously.

Chaeyoung looked at her, at her eyes, and realized her mom was right. "You do have kind eyes," she said.

"What?"

"Mom told me that you would appreciate me telling you because you have kind eyes."

"Ah," Mina looked down, a bit blushed.

Chaeyoung boldly lifted the girl's head by her chin. She knew that action. She did it on purpose. She got a glimpse of Mina's surprised eyes as she leaned forward to kiss her. It was a gentle kiss
on the lips.

She let go of her chin and leaned back again. "The thing is," she said, remembering why she had told her this. "It's not that Dahyun knows me best. Tzuyu and Momo also do, but... Dahyun has learned from a really young age how to help me with this. Soothe me or guide me through emotional or sensory dysregulations. That is the stuff she knows."

"I see..." Mina nodded. Chaeyoung could tell she needed to say more by Mina's expression.

"But you know, that used to be super necessary when I was younger... nowadays I do pretty okay, I think." Chaeyoung truly believed that. "And... if you allow me to think so, I feel you help me every day with everything, you make me feel better and mature, somehow."

Mina smiled at her and leaned down to support her head on Chaeyoung's shoulder.

"I do like to think so as well," Mina said from her shoulder.

"Why are you hiding?"

"You make me shy."

"Mh... well, you can stay a bit," Chaeyoung said. "I... sometimes I tell you how to touch me or when things annoy me, I trust you with all that. I don't want you to feel jealous ever again."

She felt her girlfriend chuckling against her shoulder. She returned to her previous position. "You can't decide when I feel jealous or not," she frowned.

Chaeyoung found her frown the cutest thing ever. "I only mean that I don't want to make you feel second because you are first."

Mina immediately moved back to her shoulder. "Stop."

"What?"

"Saying things that make me shy."

"I'll try," Chaeyoung said genuinely. Although she didn't know what those were exactly.

After a few seconds, Mina cleared her throat and sat properly again. "She... has been kind of challenging me, though." She seemed troubled explaining this, Chaeyoung was listening attentively. "Uhm, do not worry much, but, I mean, Dahyun, she has been saying stuff to me with a double intention, like she actually feels proud to know more about you than me, does that make sense?"

"Oh," Chaeyoung frowned. No, it didn't make sense at all. Why would she do that? "Today... when she asked you what did you think?"

"Yeah, exactly," Mina nodded. "You couldn't tell, but it was quite awkward, sweetie, and your friends could tell, that is why Momo ended the night."

"This upsets me," Chaeyoung said, recognizing her emotion out loud. "Why would she do that? I have to talk to her."

"Wait, but—" Mina hurried. "I also feel that, as much as this makes me feel uncomfortable, I don't think she is the kind of person to do this just to be mean. I have the impression that something else might be happening or bothering her. I don't know, honey, but maybe you could consider that first, yeah?"

"Okay," Chaeyoung nodded, taking in the information. Her brain was working fast; she made a mental note to ask her friends and kept thinking how or why this could be a thing and why she couldn't realize it on her own. It was annoying. She felt silly for not realizing at the diner. "You are angry at her, though, right?"

"Well, yes," Mina nodded. "Today she was super annoying, she keeps saying how she knows things about you over you, how is that even possible? You are not a kid."

Those words. Chaeyoung smiled. "You're super right."

"Momo texted me apologizing on her behalf and said that they were going to scold her... but yeah, I wanted to let you know 'cause we tell each other stuff, right?"

"Right," Chaeyoung nodded.

"But now that we have talked about everything, we should enjoy our night together, don't you think?"

"I want nothing more."

Finally, Chaeyoung felt unburdened and ready to spend their night together. They had planned for it, of course. Hot chocolate was one. They were also supposed to watch a movie selected by Mina and take some pictures. Why? Because it had come to Chaeyoung's knowledge that it was romantic and couple behavior to have a lock screen of your girlfriend or them together.

"Stop closing your eyes!" Mina whined at her after trying to take her picture for the tenth time.

"I don't close them on purpose!" Chaeyoung protested. "You take the picture just when I'm blinking."

Mina took another picture and sighed. "Well, you do look cute with your eyes closed and your pajamas. Come here."

She pulled from Chaeyoung's hand and made her lie back on the bed as she had been kneeling to pose for the picture. "Careful!" Chaeyoung was surprised by the sudden pull and complained.

"Stop complaining," Mina laughed. "Selfie time," she demanded as she accommodated her head on Chaeyoung's chest and put her phone up with her arm fully extended. Chaeyoung also accommodated and received her better. She genuinely smiled seeing their picture on the phone. Mina took the photo.

Chaeyoung felt her heart so warm and happy seeing them like that on the phone. Their matching pajamas and Mina's soft features relaxed, resting on her chest. She felt brave enough and turned to leave a kiss on her forehead. Another picture.

But after that one, Mina put the phone aside and scooted closer, hugging her. Ah, nothing mattered in those moments. Her girl was happy and close to her, she was the luckiest ever. They stayed like that for a few minutes. Chaeyoung felt a bit sleepy already. It was so relaxing to be quiet with Mina.

"Hey, Chaeng..."

"Mh?"

"Thank you for telling me about you."

Mina was playing with the neckband of her pajama, and she could feel her fingers grazing her skin by accident.

"Of course," Chaeyoung answered softly.

"You... can tell me anything you want about it, yeah? Anything you need or want me to know, learn, do, anything, sweetie."

"Thank you," Chaeyoung felt so grateful and emotional. It was new. "I do, I will. I do tell you most things already."

"Most things?" Mina asked, looking up and placing her palm on her chest. "What things do you not tell me?"

Chaeyoung chuckled. But then she saw Mina looking seriously. "Oh." She moved a bit uncomfortably and then thought for a second. "Well..." she said, moving up, leaving Mina without support. "There is one thing I haven't told you, and it does not leave my mind."

Mina just stared at her actions, confused at the sudden movement. She was probably annoyed because she had seemed comfortable. But she could not complain because Chaeyoung leaned down to kiss her.

She did not let her know with any gesture, just leaned in a swift motion, grabbing her neck with both hands. Mina even surprised received her kiss perfectly well.

Chaeyoung felt really good. They kissed for longer than she had intended. Mina's lips simply felt so nice against hers. They sucked on each other's lips gently but with purpose. The rhythm they had acquired made Chaeyoung's brain go blank. She could only think of Mina.

'And Mina, Mina, Mina'

But she needed air. She pulled back and looked at her from her kneeling position, chest rising and falling, lips parted. Yes, she had been thinking of more. Not just kissing, but touching, biting, sucking. The thoughts had crept in quietly, then suddenly all at once. And now they wouldn't leave. She had been thinking about this for days.

She felt a little embarrassed to say it out loud. But it was surprisingly easy to show her this time.

Mina didn't say anything. She didn't smile. She just looked at her, calm and unreadable, but her silence wasn't cold. It was loaded. Her gaze held something intense and private, and Chaeyoung felt it hit her straight in the chest. Then Mina sat up slowly, bringing their bodies even closer.

Chaeyoung didn't move at first. Her breath was still shaky, heart thudding in her chest. But when Mina opened her arms to her, slow and sure, it felt like an invitation or a dare, even.

So she moved.

Her hands touched Mina's shoulders again as she leaned in, and then she slid one knee, then the other, to either side of her lap, straddling her without breaking eye contact, surprisingly.

Mina's hands slid to her waist again, warm and grounding. They held her there, not possessively, but deliberately, as if to say I feel it too.

They paused, just for a moment. Breathing the same air. Letting it settle in.

Then Mina leaned in again. And this time, when she kissed her, it was slow but deep, like she was reading her thoughts one by one. Their mouths moved together with a gentle urgency, as if nothing else mattered. Chaeyoung gasped softly into her lips, her fingers curling against Mina's neck.

Mina's eyes searched hers for a breathless second, then her hand rose tucking a strand of hair behind Chaeyoung's ear, fingers brushing her cheek in the same motion. Her touch was featherlight but deliberate, which made Chaeyoung shiver.

"Chaeyoung," Mina said softly. Her name, spoken so gently, made her stomach twist in a way that wasn't unpleasant. She didn't answer. Just leaned in again. And this time, the kiss was slower, but deeper. Like Mina wanted to understand her through it. Their mouths opened, moved, and closed again. Chaeyoung let her hands slide down Mina's back, fingertips catching on fabric, then inching beneath it to find skin. Almost mindlessly.

Mina's breath hitched softly against her lips, and she responded by kissing her harder, but not rough, just more certain, like she wasn't afraid to ask for what she wanted.

Chaeyoung followed the pull, letting her body press closer, her hips shifting instinctively. Her thoughts scattered again, but this time it wasn't just blankness, it was heat, need, and something tender mixing it all.

But suddenly, it felt like a little too much.

Not Mina. Not the kiss. Just... everything. The closeness, the hands, the heartbeat pounding in her ears. It was all crashing in at once.

She broke the kiss with a small gasp, eyes wide, body still straddling Mina's. Her hands clenched briefly at the fabric of her shirt, like she wasn't sure whether to pull away or hold on.

Mina noticed immediately. Her expression didn't shift in surprise or frustration, only concern. She reached up and cupped Chaeyoung's face, her thumb brushing softly across her cheekbone.

"Hey," she said gently. "It's okay."

Chaeyoung blinked. "I—sorry, I just—"

"You don't have to explain," Mina whispered, her voice almost like a breath. "You're here. That's enough."

They stayed like that for a moment. Chaeyoung was breathing fast, Mina grounding her with soft hands and softer eyes. Then, still holding her, Mina pressed a slow kiss to her temple and another near her jaw.

No rush. No pressure.

Just the quiet warmth of her.

"I like being close to you," Mina said. "But I like you more than just that. It's okay if we only stay like this."

Chaeyoung swallowed, her throat tight. Her heart still beat too fast, but her body slowly began to settle. She let herself lean forward, resting her forehead against Mina's.

"I think about you like this..." Chaeyoung finally said. "A lot."

"Mhh..." Mina hummed softly, still holding the girl close. "Me too."

"You do?"

"Of course," Mina said, looking for her eyes. "Can't you tell how much I like you?"

 "I like you as well, like that, I mean— I think about your touch quite often." 

At those words, Mina moved to hide against her neck again. Chaeyoung felt better, calmer, and her heartbeat was normal again. "Stop," Mina whined.

Chaeyoung liked her like that. "Should I really?"

Mina moved back again with a frown. "No, keep talking."

"Ah," Chaeyoung felt confused, but it was no problem. "Well, should we have sex?"

Terror. Mina's eyes looked so big for the brief second Chaeyoung got to see them before she went into hiding once again. "Chaeyoung!" She whined loudly. 

Chaeyoung blinked, startled by the reaction, then realized Mina wasn't upset. Just overwhelmed in a very different way. 'ah'

"You started it," she muttered, confused but not backing down. "You told me to keep talking."

Mina groaned, voice muffled against her skin. "Not like that!"

Chaeyoung smiled. Not just because Mina was adorable, but because something inside her had clicked into place. She felt seen.

Mina peeked up, face flushed. "You're so—bold."

Chaeyoung tilted her head, suddenly shy again. "Sorry. I just thought... maybe it was okay to say that. Since I want to. A lot."

Mina looked at her then. Really looked. Her expression softened.

"You do?"

Chaeyoung nodded slowly. "I do. But... I'm also afraid."

Mina didn't interrupt. She waited.

"I'm scared something like what just happened will happen again," Chaeyoung said, voice quiet but steady. "That I'll get overwhelmed, or I'll freeze, or panic and ruin everything. And you'll think it means I didn't want to. Or that I changed my mind. But I wouldn't be lying. It's just—my brain sometimes... short-circuits."

She hated saying it out loud. But Mina didn't look at her weirdly or anything. Didn't look away. She just listened.

"You didn't ruin anything," Mina said gently. "And I wouldn't think that. I promise."

Chaeyoung let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. She had felt so much so quickly that it was exhausting. 

Mina reached up, brushing a thumb over her lower lip, slow and thoughtful. "That was the boldest, scariest, cutest thing anyone's ever said to me." Chaeyoung blushed deeply, and Mina smiled warmly. "I want you too... like that," Mina added, her voice softer now. "But not more than I want you to feel okay. And I love that you told me. That you trust me enough to say it out loud."

Chaeyoung looked down at her hands, then back into Mina's eyes. "I'm trying."

"I know," Mina said. "And you don't have to try alone." 

They stayed hugging for quite a while, until Chaeyoung's body clock decided it was time to sleep for tomorrow's classes. 

They brushed their teeth in silence, side by side. Chaeyoung's lips were still tingling, remembering Mina's ones sucking on them. Every time she glanced at Mina's reflection in the mirror, her stomach turned a little, not out of nerves this time, but something warmer.

Back in Mina's room, they moved slowly. Mina handed her some water, and Chaeyoung offered her a lavender-vanilla scented sleep roll-on. They didn't speak much, just traded soft looks and the occasional sheepish smile.

They slipped under the covers quietly. It was good to finally rest after quite a moving night.

Mina turned toward her. "So... should I expect more sudden questions about sex tomorrow?"

Chaeyoung blinked, then deadpanned, "Statistically, yes."

Mina chuckled. "Good to know."

They were close again, without effort this time. Skin brushing under the blanket, breath syncing. Chaeyoung let her eyes close for a moment, then opened them again, just to make sure Mina was still there. Still real. 'mine'

Mina reached for her hand under the covers. Interlaced their fingers like it was nothing. Chaeyoung liked that it didn't feel weird or uncomfortable. 

"I really like you," Chaeyoung whispered. It wasn't planned. It just came out, simple and right.

Mina didn't question it. She just ran her thumb over Chaeyoung's knuckles and said, "I know." Then, quieter, "Me too."

They stayed like that a while, facing each other, fingers tangled, saying nothing. Chaeyoung felt the tension in her chest loosen, slowly replaced by something quieter. The scent of Mina's skin. The weight of the night. The strange, steady calm of being wanted without asking.

"I think my brain's finally quiet," she murmured.

"Then sleep," Mina said gently. "You can keep talking tomorrow."

So she did.

And as her eyes finally closed, Chaeyoung thought —Maybe this is what it feels like to be held exactly how you need. Not perfectly. Just right.