Episode 12: Shadows from Bangkok
We were done with the burial of Yoongi. That was when reality hit me. I realized—truly realized—that I was never going to see her again. My cousin, my best friend, my heart... was gone for good. I cried like a child. I was traumatized, shattered in ways I couldn't even explain.
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A year later...
We went back to school. Honestly, I can't remember when last I talked about school life—it used to be boring without Yohan. But now he's with me again, so everything feels different. Everything feels lighter.
We sat in the same seat, attended the same lectures, went home together. And today... today was one of those days that just felt perfect. We were under a cherry blossom tree. My head was resting on his lap. His fingers were weaving lazy braids into my hair, only to undo them moments later. The wind was soft and sweet. The kind of breeze that makes you forget the world exists.
"Has anyone ever told you you're beautiful?" Tae suddenly asked.
I smiled, eyes still closed. "Yes. Including you."
He chuckled softly. "Then let me say it again... you're so beautiful. So special."
"You're also handsome," I replied, giving him an innocent smile. He leaned down and kissed my forehead, soft like a whisper.
"Tell me, Tae," I said, watching his face focus like I was about to deliver some sacred truth.
He blinked. I giggled.
"What good deed did I ever do in this life to deserve you?"
His eyes widened, completely unprepared for that question. I pulled him in for a peck—it turned into a kiss. Sweet, innocent... until a sudden cough interrupted us.
I looked up and my stomach dropped. That face. That annoying, painfully familiar face.
"Sorry, I didn't know you were..." he trailed.
Tae looked up too. "Hey nerd, what are you doing here?"
Wait—did he know him?
Tae caught my confusion and gestured. "Babe, this is our school nerd. From Bangkok. He's the guy I mistook for you."
The guy blushed, clearly remembering how Tae almost kissed him in class back then.
I sat up quickly and grabbed Tae's hand tight. Jealousy was stabbing through me. Tae squeezed my hand gently like he could feel it.
"I transferred here yesterday," the guy said.
I couldn't. I couldn't handle him being here. I stood up, heart racing, and just ran.
Tae immediately chased after me.
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School Toilet
I stood at the sink, splashing water on my face. My hands gripped the marble slab. My breath was ragged.
Why him? Of all people... why?
"Ahhh—" I flinched as Tae touched my shoulder.
"What's wrong with you?" he asked gently.
I didn't answer. I just threw my arms around him and sobbed into his chest.
He wrapped me in his arms, rubbing my back slowly. "Baby, what bad deed did I ever do to deserve this much pain?"
He kissed the top of my head. "You're such a pure soul, baby. You never did any bad deeds."
He peppered my hair with soft kisses, calming me.
"Why did you run from that nerd guy?" he asked, voice low and comforting.
I didn't reply. I only pressed myself deeper into his chest. He kept patting my back.
"I get it. You don't want to talk. But you're making me worry too much."
I nodded slightly.
We stayed like that for what felt like thirty minutes. Then he took my hand and we walked home quietly, together.
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Author's Note: Hi lovely and faithful readers... how are you holding up?
I know I've been inconsistent lately and I truly apologize. Life hit hard—I've been feeling really down, and a close friend passed away. But I'm trying to stay strong. I promise to make it up to you all.
Tonight, there will be a bonus chapter. Watch out.
Saranghae ❤️❤️💜