Author: yanashin

Link:http://soshified.com/forums/index.php/topic/55409-f-i-r-s-t

01 First Day

I hurriedly went out of our house, picking the bread on the plate, putting it inside my mouth while I dashed toward the door and said goodbye to my mother without even looking at her. She said goodbye back, and I didn’t even hear what other words she was saying. It’s the first day of classes and I am late! Damn late!! Well, it is not really my fault, vacations rock, they make me get use to sleeping late and waking up late and yet again, I’m not used to this new red uniform. I tried to look myself in the mirror yesterday. The uniform is pretty, like the ones you see in dramas and I was constantly admiring myself in the mirror. Oh, why am I saying that to you? Anyway, it’s my first day in high school. I keep on imagining things, they say high school is the best but really, does it have to be any different with middle school or elementary? I stride along our gate and opened it with all my force, and there goes my all time dorky best friend who waved her hand at me then rolled her eyes with a so-early-in-the-morning-why-you-should-look-haggard-Fany expression.

“Haven’t changed at all huh!!” my best friend yelled at me with annoyance. I was quickly chewing the bread on my mouth and just swallowed the bread. But what can I even do? I’m not really excited like her. First days are just uhhh, can’t describe the feeling of the tension forming in my veins.

“Why you so early Taetaeeeee~” I whined just to make her anger subside.

“Ugh, Fany. Stop that and let’s just go, okay?! Stop whining you late-as-ever-ass. I don’t wanna be lateee.” Taeyeon grabbed me by the arm and we walked faster that I can ever imagine. My steps were getting larger and I really wonder how this danshin could do large steps with her uhh short legs, I’m laughing in my mind. I could be the worst best friend in the world and Taeyeon doesn’t even mind that.

“Can we walk a little bit slower pleaseee?” I pouted behind her and I’m running after my breath.

“No!” She answered with irritation and tightened her grip on my arm. Then suddenly, we were running like crazy.

Now I want a bicycle. I told myself.

Once we arrived in our new school, I saw so many people walking calmly into the school gate. God, I looked at the school clock and we weren’t really late! In fact, we’ve just travelled toward school for about ten minutes! I don’t know if my best friend is a real time freak or what. Pfffft. I want to go drill her smallness into the ground. Evil me is evil!!!

“Look, Tae~ we are not even late!” I stood in front of her, purposely making her removed her hand on my arm.

“At least we still have time to pick our seats, let’s go.” Taeyeon walked in front of me and we went to our assigned class room. When we went inside, there were already a couple of people whom I don’t know, I wandered through the room and noticed a girl with blonde hair, flowing down her neck. She is sitting near the window, looking outside. That usual blank expression painted in her face.

She is my classmate again? Again???!!! Pffft.

It’s not that she gets me annoyed but she has been my classmate ever since preparatory school. Yes, that long. But I haven’t even got to talk to her, not ever, not even once. Because this girl, named Jessica Jung is as close as a hard shell, an oyster shell. She wouldn’t talk or if she talks, she would only speak one-word answers. She doesn’t even have friends, she’s like a mushroom that you would see early in the morning and the type that you won’t see after dismissal, gone like the wind. I don’t even remember how her voice sounds like. But mind you, she is really intelligent. I wonder too, how come she could be that intelligent without even talking. And if she would recite, she would go in front of the blackboard and write the answer there. Truly weird! But teachers don’t mind, a prodigy huh.

And why the heck am I even talking about this weird girl?? I walked while still looking at her and bumped into Taeyeon. Damn this small girl, why wouldn’t she just take her sit? I looked at Jessica again and she suddenly looked my way and I strode going to the back of Taeyeon, as if she could hide me. I wish Taeyeon was taller, these were the times I wish she was taller!

“What the hell are you doing Tiffany??” I could sense Tae is rolling her eyes again.

“She is our classmate again.” I whispered slowly to Taeyeon. Seeing in my peripheral version that Jessica is not looking at us anymore.

“What? Oh, Jung. Why should you even bother Fany. In fact, I rarely notice her inside the classroom but I can’t accept the fact that she is more intelligent than me!! And now she is taller than me!!!!!” Taeyeon whispered with annoyance, moved forward and picked up the chair where she would sit on. Oh, I haven’t told you guys that my best friend is the grade-conscious type but unlucky for her, she is always doing her best and stressing herself but she only comes second after Jessica. While me? I don’t need to. I am a happy-go-lucky, come-what-may person and I’m proud at procrastinating. Heeh, and I always pass, well not as intelligent as Taeng but above average. Ooohhh , readers see airhead me?

*eye-smiles at you reader*

I sat beside Taeyon, and just spent the whole class time daydreaming. Not even listening, since it’s orientation day. I sighed, I wondered how my high school life would go. I hope it would be as exciting as they always say.

“Hey, daydreamer!” Taeyeon snapped her hand in front of me and I moved back onto the back rest of the chair.

“Whuut?” I glared at her.

“It’s already dismissal, let’s go. I thought you want to go home early?” She arranged her bag and stood up. Flinging her shoulder bag aside.

“Ah, yeah right.” I looked at the place where Jessica sits. She was gone, already. Wow, is she a teleporter or what? I suddenly got conscious.

Huh?? Why am I being interested with her for once??? What the..

Let’s changed my “I suddenly got conscious” bubble thought into “I suddenly got curious with her”. Yes, I am just curious because she is a real mystery. Mysterrrryyyyy, my brain was ringing that word loud.

“Let’s go!! Hey!!” My best friend slapped me in the arm.

“I know! I know!” I petitioned at her and went straight out the door. I know Taeyeon was trailing behind my back and when we were nearing at the school gate, I saw her. She was calmly making her way out of the school gate.

“Oh.” I uttered, purposely only to myself but I think this small creature beside me had heard it.

Oh shhh.. what kind of ears does she have?

“Is she your crush or something Fany??” Taeyeon put her hands on her waist.

“What!?? You think I’m going to like a girl, mostly that girl?! What do you think of me!??” I glared at her.

“For once, Fany. Why so defensive? I told you already that you should not bother about Jung. Are you even listening? Or maybe you wanna be friends with that weirdo.” Taeyeon giggled at me, and it somehow made me annoyed.

“I am just curious Tae, you know that girl haven’t talked ever since.” I started to walk.

“Why only get curious now??” She replied.

“Because we... are uhh already in high school??? Uhmm??” I tried to convince her with my senseless reason and she giggled yet again. I hate that.

“So you’re now more mature and more aware of the people around you huh?” She smirked at me. We went home together and on the way, I begged for Tae to let me copy our homework, or should I say what should we bring for our class tomorrow. Woah, I hate Tae to death, why should she let me beg just to copy her notes. That’s unfair and when we arrived at my house, she told me for the nth time that I should wake up early, be more organized and stop daydreaming. She was like a mother talking incessantly. Oh my. But hating her, that I couldn’t really do because Taeyeon is my best source of everything school related. Heeh, user, I’m just kidding. I guess she couldn’t also resist me, because we had been together for fourteen years now and I liked that. In the end she sent me a text message of what should we bring tomorrow.

What a day! Tiring even if we haven’t done anything~

I arranged my bed and tried to sleep, trying to shake off my thoughts of mysterious Jung. Maybe she is an alien? Or a mannequin? Or maybe some kind of extraterrestrial creature??

What?? I am thinking of her again?

Dooodooorooodooodoooodooo kissing you babyyyy~

I tried to hum a song in my mind.

I turned off the lights from my bed lamp and pouted by myself.

Taeyeon’s right, why should I even bother?

02 First Encounter

I was still yawning while Taeyeon and I walked together to school. At last, we weren’t running like yesterday but we’re just walking like everyone else. It felt good, I felt good. I smiled at myself. It’s an accomplishment for me to be early for school, it’s because Tae told me to promise her to wake up early, starting from today, before she gave me the assignment. She blackmailed me but I need it, I pinky-promise to be an early bird starting from now on. Although, that sucks, but at least I have the assign----

The assignment!!! My assignment!!

My eyes widened. Taeyon looked back at me.

“Will you please stop yawning? That’s the third time already! And what’s that look on your face?” The lines on her forehead were forming.

“Uh. Oh.. yes.. Heh, sorryyyy.” I tried to smile.

“Is something wrong??” She asked me, one of her eyebrows was up.

“N-No, heh, nothing really.” I tried to smile again.

What should I do? I forgot my assignment!! Ugh, I forgot it at home. Tae would be angry with me~ How should I convince her this time to help me? Gosh, what wrong timing.

I walked faster to be able to be beside Taeyeon.

“Tae~” I grinned at her and she looked at me, her face looked surprise with my sudden cutesy voice.

“Uhmm, Tae~” I placed my hand on her shoulder.

“We are best friends right?” I eye-smiled at her.

“Huh?” She replied.

“You love me~ righttttt~I am important forrr ya righhhtttt~ You’re so pretty today Taeeee~” I patted her on her hair.

“Stop it already Fany! What do you really want??” She pushed me lightly and crossed her arms.

“Ehhh~ Tae~ Uhm..just a f-favor~ do you have extra folders, envelopes, bond papers and...”

“AS I HAVE GUESSED! YOU FORGOT YOUR ASSIGNMENT!! THAT LOOK ON YOUR FACE AFTER YAWNING WITH YOUR MOUTH LEFT OPENING SLIGHTLY!! I KNEW IT!!!” Taeyeon glared at me.

Here comes my best friend-mother, she would scold me incessantly again! But I should worry not! Taeyeon couldn’t resist me anyway. Here she comessss~

“What did you do last night? Just sleep? Oh, Fany!!!”

I feel proud to have a best friend like her. Or lucky, I guess.

“Sorry~ please? I ended up sleeping~~” I put my hands together, trying to be irresistible as I can.

“UHN! FANY!!! When will you stop forgetting things! And you did nothing yesterday at school but daydream, how come you ended up feeling tired!! I guess there’s nothing I could do!” She sighed.

“I’ll give them to you when we reach our class room!” We continued walking.

At last, the assignment problem has ended!! Way to go Tiffany Hwang~

I patted myself in my mind.

“Thank you~ Tae~~ You’re really the best!!! I’ll pay them, don’t worry okay?” I smiled at her again but she pouted annoyingly in reply.

When we reached the class room, Taeyeon gave me the requirements for our class and we sat on our respective chairs. I just hope our homeroom adviser wouldn’t change our sitting arrangement. I feel much more secured and worry-free when I am beside Taeyeon. I suddenly crossed my hands and prayed hard that Tae would be my seatmate for the whole school year~

“What are you doing Fany??” Tae asked me and I opened my right eye and looked at her.

“I am praying that we would be seatmates for the whole school year~” I whispered at her gladly and closed my eyes again.

“Oh Fany!!! I hope not!” Taeyeon answered while I was still praying.

“Oh Tae~ I promise you I would really, really, really, really, really change starting from now on~” I put stress on the words ‘really’.

“Promise?” Taeyeon smiled at me.

Oh, what best friend I have. She is too easy to get~

“Promise!!” I winked at her.

“Keep your word Fany~” she told me.

“Okay class, we would have a new sitting arrangement starting from today.” The adviser suddenly announced. I heard most of my classmates whined.

My eyes widened, I just prayed and I was like aldfjasdjfsaldjfsdj! My prayer didn’t work!! I looked at Taeyeon and she smirked at me. Damn this dwarfy!! She was only pretending and I promised something to her already!!! Ugh.

Hmfff!

“Here class, I have a box. There are seat numbers in here. And when you look at the desk of your table, there is also a number there. You guys got it?” Our male adviser who is in his forty’s smiled at us, his spectacles made him looked a terror one, but he isn’t. He is a gullible one, in my opinion.

One by one we fell in line to get our respective seat numbers. When my turn came, I closed my eyes. Taeyeon was behind my back. She should be in front of me, so at least I could see her number! This small creature!! I nervously put my hand inside the box, and wavered my hand inside.

I hope I would be sitting next to Taeyeon. I hope, please..

I got my number, I couldn’t see any number. Oh, the paper’s back was facing me. I flipped it over. My seat number is 23. I looked behind me and see Taeyeon peeking behind my back.

“You can’t see it huh?” I looked at her tip-toed feet and she pushed me lightly. I put the number in front of her face and she nodded.

“What’s your seat number Miss Hwang?” our adviser suddenly asked me.

“Twenty-three.” I told him and he motioned his hand on my seat. I looked on the left side of my seat.

Oh, it’s still not occupied. I hope Tae would be sitting there~

I then, looked at the right side of my seat.

FOR REAL?

“Miss Hwang, sit beside Miss Jung. She is seat number twenty-two. You’re seat is number twenty-three right?” The adviser observed me with his eyes. I haven’t moved an inch. I don’t even...

“Miss Hwang?” The adviser called my attention again.

“Oh, yes that. Err.. right.” I moved cautiously towards my new seat. I looked at Jessica who is now my seatmate for-----

WHATTTT?! ONE WHOLE SCHOOL YEARRRR~ NOOO~

It’s not that I don’t like it but I can’t... I don’t even know how could I control being talkative. I hope Tae sits on the other seat. That’s my only card left.

I looked at this blonde girl again and she looked at me too. I tried to smile. But, gosh, her expression never really changed. What the...?

Is she a cyborg?

Her expression was as blank as a white bond paper.

I sighed. Sat down on my seat and wandered my eyes on the room and Taeyeon was sitting on the other side of the room, in front. Oh damn, why did it turn out like this!

“Tae, tae, tae~” I whispered hard at Taeyeon who is on the other side of the earth. Okay, I am exaggerating but whatever. She looked at me and I pointed my finger at her.

“Is that really your seat??” My face looked worried.

“Yes.. and sshhh.” She silenced me and turned her back from me. I pouted by myself and started to daydream again, our adviser was talking something about festival and stuff. Oh, I don’t like to listen. I looked at Jessica, who is now my seatmate and I suddenly had the impulse to talk. Because I’m really as talkative as you could ever imagine.

“Hi.” I said while looking at her and guess what, she only looked at me for awhile and looked away again. Her expression, didn’t change at all!!

Is her face plastered to be like that??

“Hi! I’m Tiffany Hwang!” I waved my right hand at her, she looked at me for the second time and is it just me or I saw her lips moved an inch?

Maybe it’s not bad at all. Maybe she is just a shy type of person? Hmm.

“I know.” She answered me coldly. Oh, I remembered her voice, it’s small, soft and kind of high-pitched, musical.

“Wow! That’s great, you know me. We had been classmates since I could clearly remember!” I eye-smiled at her.

She just looked at me again.

“You’re Jessica Jung, if I’m not mistaken?” I smiled again at her. Being a talkative person, I can’t really control myself. I find it hard.

“Yes.” She answered me, icily. Her eyes were as cold as something I could never describe. But she’s not scary at all, in fact she looked sleepy. Heeh.

“Have you’ve been really blonde since you’re a baby??” I asked her suddenly.

Oh, Fany, what kind of question is that, are you even thinking?? I think I would really run out of questions to ask her, I suddenly felt uncomfortable.

“No.” She answered me.

This conversation is going nowhere!! I racked my head hysterically.

“Anyway, what’s your secret for being the school’s number one??” Why do I continue on asking her.

“Nothing.” She replied and was looking at me. She was staring at me. Oh, she’s scary this time. And the longer I looked at her, the more I realize that this girl is pretty. How should I put it? She has nice eyes, and pinkish lips and her short blonde hair was giving more emphasis on her face. And her eyelashes are long... and---

“Miss Hwang, Miss Jung!” The adviser suddenly called our attention. I suddenly got up and the class laughed.

Now, what the heck??

I looked at Taeyeon and her face drew an expression that says, ‘what-are-you-really-doing-daydreaming-again??!’

I smiled at her.

“Miss Hwang.”

“Yes sir?”

“You and Miss Jung would be the class representatives from now on.”

WHAT?? DID I HEAR THAT RIGHT?? CLASS REPRESENTATIVE? ME?! WITH THIS COLD GIRL??! HUH??! What is really happening.. it feels domino effectttt~

I looked at Jessica and her hand was supporting her chin, she wasn’t even looking at me but was looking at the teacher. Again, with her usual cold slash sleepy eyes. Then I looked at Tae, her eyes widened with frustration, maybe even with worry or anger. I would never know! I need to get myself of this mire!!

“B-But S-sir---”

“You and Miss Jung must be enjoying each other’s company. You two would make good class representatives. Cooperation is needed, and I think you too have it. Seeing you from here, you two looked very close.” The teacher countered me.

I should have not talk with her~ you’re too talkative Fany! What kind of adviser do we have???

I slapped my head in my mind.

I cannot do anything but to sit again and looked at my partner now. I sighed for the 909086th time. She looked at me too and opened her mouth, slightly.

“Stupid.” I saw the word forming on her lips. She told me I’m stupid and turned her head away. Wow, nice. Really nice. She’s a really friendly person! My sarcasm was eating me.

This girl has attitude!!

I frowned.

“Class dismissed.” The adviser announced and I hurriedly stood up and went to Taeyon’s seat.

“Tae~ help meee~” I whined again.

“How could I help? That’s your fault.” Taeyeon and I walked out of the room.

“But I was just interviewing her!” I pouted.

“Is it necessary to ‘interview’ her?? Tell me how would I help? That’s your responsibility, I guess you deserve that. So that you could change completely.” We continued to walk and I looked at our room’s window. The wind slash cold slash one-word slash mean girl was gone. She’s like a mushroom, really! Or maybe she’s just a reincarnated ghost? And maybe in her past life, she was an ice??!

“I guess there’s nothing I could do~” I rested my head on Taeyeon’s back while we walk.

“At least, you’ll get near to your ‘crush’.” I know Tae was smirking so I went in front of her.

“I don’t like her!! She only answered me with single word and our conversation wasn’t going anywhere!!!!” I complained.

“But as you have said, there’s nothing you could do.” Taeyeon continued to walk and passed by me.

“Tae~Tae~” I kept on whining.

“Fany, stop it. You should just at least stop being talkative!” Taeyeon got something from her bag and handed me a notebook.

“What’s this?” I looked at the blue notebook resting on her palms.

“Lecture, I know you weren’t listening awhile ago! It’s obvious you were just talking with Jung. DUH!” She rolled her eyes.

“Lecture? The teacher lectured?” I asked, puzzled.

“That’s about the school festival and what you should two be doing as a ‘CRs’. As a class representative, you’ll need that.” She sighed at me.

“Oh, thank you~ Tae~ you’re really the best~~~ I hope Jessica is also listening~” I hugged her.

“You’re as stubborn as ever Fany.” Taeyeon poked me on my forehead.

“There’s nothing I could really do Tae~ah... but to just cooperate with her~” I pouted again.

“Yup. But at least, you wouldn’t be that curious about her now.” Tae smiled at me. Is she serious or is she fooling around? This girl, is just as dorky as I could get!!! Pff.

We reached my house and I waved Taeyeon goodbye. I put my school shoes in the shoe rack and went straight to my room.

“You don’t want dinner dear?” My mother called out.

“I’ll just eat later mom...” I answered her back and closed the door of my room.

I wonder what would happen tomorrow.. Thinking about doing things with that Jessica, makes me shiver. She has something in her that I can’t explain. I hope she and I would have a good relationship as CRs (class representatives). I hope we won’t clash.

I sighed.

So is this what they call as ‘high school fun’?

I guess not.

Hey, it’s just the start Fany. It could be better.

I hope so.

Oh, assignment!!

That’s the one thing I shouldn’t forget from now one. I promised Taeng that I would change. I first set my alarm clock and started to read the lecture Tae had written for me.

What the...??? Being class representatives have these many responsibilities???!!!

I pointed my finger down the bulleted notes. I lied on my bed... and stretched.

I’m class representative, huh. Really? And my partner is Jessica Jung...........!

03 First Conversation

I read over and over again Tae’s given lecture about “Responsibilities of Class Reps”. I tried to memorize them, but I’m up to no good. Memorization is a no-no, and it makes me hate my being a class representative thingy. I’m wishing our adviser had already forgotten that he had already assigned class representatives yesterday. It could have been a dream! Oh! How I wish it was!!

And why should organizing school festivals, arranging books and even gardening have to do with being a class representative?

I put my hand on my chin and frowned, flipped the pages a few times again and closed Tae’s notebook. I’m up to no good~

“Still reading that?” I looked up and saw Taeyeon in front of me. These are the times when she looked taller, that is, when I’m sitting on a chair. I fancied myself with her height. I wonder if Tae would ever be taller.

Yeah, Fany. That’s a nice thing to think of, really.

I slapped myself in my mind.

“Thank you for the lecture Tae~” I handed her the notebook, trying to shook of my thoughts about my best friend’s height.

“Why you look so lifeless??” Taeyeon asked me eagerly. I looked at the chair beside me and Jessica hasn’t arrived yet. Maybe she doesn’t want to be a class representative so she just decided to drop from high school? Or maybe she got sick just thinking of the responsibilities and having to socialize with people? Oh Fany, senseless thoughts. I sighed and looked at Tae again.

“Oooh, you’re ‘partner’ hasn’t arrived yet huh.” She teased me while eyeing the empty seat beside me.

“What?!” I answered her annoyingly.

“Don’t forget today is the start of your ‘work’ as a CR, good luck best friend!’” She smiled at me and went back to her seat. Was that a sarcasm or was she just wishing me luck? And was that intentional? I pouted by myself and put my head down the desk.

Oh, I hate this~

“Good morning class!” Our math teacher suddenly arrived and we all stood up to greet him back. I looked again on my left side and saw Jessica, standing beside me. I sat at my seat and looked at her again. I just can’t believe it.

Eeeehhhhh? How come?!! How did she do that? When did she arrive??! But she was not yet here a while ago???! She is scary!

Now my hypothesis of her as being a teleporter is rising. Then she looked back at me.

“Good morning~” I tried to sound cheerful and smiled at her. No reaction at all. Does she even have a tongue or what?! Or maybe she’s deaf?!

“Good morning~” I repeated and looked at her face. She stared at me like I was the weirdest person she had ever seen then the expression on her face went back to its poker expression. God, I’m starting to dislike her.

Mathematics was our first subject and I was hurriedly copying the notes on the blackboard. Why the heck does our teacher speaks this fast?? And his voice was not that loud for us to hear!! I don’t even----

I looked at Jessica and she was not writing at all, she was just staring at the teacher. I am doing my best to follow every word the teacher is saying while she is just here, beside me, doing nothing. Unfair!! My eyes widened with frustration and she yawned, making me feel more frustrated and humiliated.

What brain does this girl have??!

Time went by fast and lunch time arrived. I looked at Jessica again, followed her movement with my eyes. She stood up and went out of the classroom. She is really weird! Tae and I went to the cafeteria to eat our lunch. I was looking around trying to find Jessica.

Finding?! Why am I even trying to find her??!

My eyes wandered everywhere and no sight of her. We returned to the classroom after eating and when we got back, she was already there sitting on her seat. She’s making me think of things. Is she an alien?! Or maybe she’s just a hologram or an untouchable person??

Our next two subjects went by faster because I was frustratingly copying the lecture notes. Having to promise Tae that I would change made me miserable.

I wish I could just copy notes from her again.

Dismissal arrived and here goes my ultimate problem. Just try to think of this, our adviser told us to arrange the books alphabetically on the bookshelves. I’m getting nervous. What’s really getting me nervous? It’s the thought that I would be here in the classroom, only me together with Jung. I’m trying to think how to cope up, what should I do, what should I say.... Gee....I don’t want her to leave though, two heads are better than one. At least we could finish this faster.

I waved at Taeyeon while she was making her way out. I tried to look calm but she looked back at me and went in front of me.

“Would you really be all right Fany?” she asked me while whispering. She was worrying! She looked at Jessica who was arranging something inside her bag.

“Don’t worry! I can do this!!” I flashed a smile at her.

“Okay then, good luck okay? You owe me a story tomorrow~” Taeyeon patted me on the shoulder and left. I sighed again and turned around to face Jessica who was now sitting in front of the bookshelves, putting out the books from it. I went beside her and sat there also, I also started to put out books.

............

This is getting really awkward. Getting more and more awkward as time passes by. I need to talk!

“Jessica..” I tried to say her name and she looked at me. And there’s only one thing I could tell you, she is a real poker-faced girl!!

“How about we put the English books here and... uhh the Science books.. there.” I was trying to give my opinion about arranging the books. Maybe she would try to disagree and it would be a start, at least, of a conversation.

“Okay.” Was all she replied to me. This is just so hard!

I started to get the books when she also started to get the books from where I was getting them. And our fingers touched each other. I retreat my hand back and looked at her.

This is just insane!

“Oh s-sorry..” I looked at her and smiled. So she wasn’t a hologram huh?

She looked at me too and looked away. She stood up and went to arrange other books which were on the teacher’s table.

Just what kind of person is she? I don’t get her at all!

I’m so pissed off that I just continued to arrange the books giving no attention to her. Then I suddenly felt someone was poking me continuously on my back.

Annoying!

I looked behind me and saw Jessica, with her all time poker-faced expression.

“Is this yours?” she asked me while holding a pink pen on her right hand. She was staring at it and looked at me. As I have always said, her expression doesn’t change.

“Oh, yes.. thank you..” I got it from her hand and put it in my pockets.

“What’s the history of that pen?” she suddenly asked me.

Wow, could you believe that? She was starting a conversation~

“Huh?” I suddenly uttered.

“Where did you get that pen?” she asked me again.

Wow!! Say goodbye to her single word answers~

I somehow feel excited and proud. Maybe I was the first one to hear her talk sentences.

“Oh this? Why do you ask?” I was experimenting if she would still answer me with a sentence.

“It looks old.” She told me and arranged other books again.

“Well, someone has given this to me.. when I was in elementary.” I smiled at the pen that is now resting inside my pockets.

No reply.

“Taeyeon has given this to me~” I said cheerfully at her.

No reply.

Was she even listening?? What a weirdo!!

The silence continued like that and when we finished arranging the books, I went to get my bag, which was resting on my desk.

Should I go home with her?

If I just go out and leave her, she might think I am mean or something like that but if I wait for her and asked her to go home with me, then she would think I am some kind of a creeper and mostly, a weirdo again. I pretend to arrange things from my bag even though there’s nothing to arrange inside it. Then she talked.

“Aren’t you going home?” The same expression was still painted on her face. She was already at the door, her red shoulder bag resting on her arm.

Wow, she’s talking to me again huh.

“Oh.. that, well yes..” I tried to weigh my thoughts.

“You too?” I asked her.

“Yes.” Then she turned her back from me. I was making my way towards the door, involuntarily. I walked behind her and found myself staring at her back. I slowed down my pace, just as so that she would go home first, but she slowed down her pace too.

What is she doing?

This makes my head hurt. I am confused with her actions. Later, I just found myself walking side by side with her. And mind you, it feels really awkward. I can’t think of anything to say, not unless I am so eager to ask her again if her hair had been blonde since she was born or how come the expression on her face doesn’t change, which were just totally pathetic. I sighed and she looked at me. I looked at her too and her eyes were piercing mine. I looked away.

What the heck.

She stopped and I found myself stopping too.

“Wait for me here.” She said without even looking at me. Her voice was commanding.

What??! Wait for her?! Is she serious, she’s asking me to wait for her...? Uhm..?

And I waited and saw her again, and with her was her bicycle. She wasn’t riding on it.

Bicycle..... I envy her, I want one too~

We walked out the school, me, her and her bicycle. She’s still not talking and I have decided to just ask her anything that comes into my mind. At least that way, I could reach home faster.

“You always ride in a bicycle every time you go home and go to school?” I looked at her.

“Yes.” She replied without even looking at me.

“Is your house that far..?” I asked her again.

“Not really.” She now looked at me, with her cold eyes.

“Oh I see.. so your house is this way too?” I pointed at the road which is the way to my house.

“Yes.”

“Why don’t I see you around? We’re living in the same neighbourhood!” I told her, excitement could be traced in my voice. And I regretted that.

“I don’t see you too.” She answered me calmly and after that, all I could hear was the bicycle’s pedal while it was walking with us. I tried to speak but nothing comes out. The silence was unbearable.

“Your name’s Tiffany, right?” she blurted out of nowhere.

“Yes, it’s Tiffany. Don’t tell me you haven’t known my name up until now?” I smiled at her. Our walk home took us long, and time seemed to be slower. Is it because of the silence or the awkwardness? I wonder which one, either of the two, I feel like a bubble gum stuck on a desk.

“I know it, I’m just assuring.” She told me, she’s not looking at me again.

“Oh.. you’re not really sociable?” I asked her, straight-forwardly.

“No. And you’re too sociable.” She replied. Was she trying to tease me or what?

“Am I to you? Sorry about that...I am just this.. uhh, talkative..” I looked at her even though I’m getting used to the fact that every time we would be talking with each other, she won’t even dare to look back at me.

“I see.” She replied.

“Do you have a sibling?” I asked her. You’re brave Tiffany, having to ask her about personal stuff. It was just a try, if she won’t answer it then I’ll stop. As easy as that.

“No, I don’t. You?”

Are we having a decent conversation now?

“I don’t, too.” I answered her. We continued to walk and I could almost see our gate.

“So here I go. This is our house by the way..” I stopped right in front of our gate.

“Oh, that’s you house.” She stared at it for a while. And her eyes wandered on it.

“Where do you live?” I asked her.

“There.” She pointed towards the left curved, which is kind of far from my house and I just nodded in reply.

“So.. uhm... ah... goodbye.” It was really hard having to tell her something like this, awkward as always. Maybe because we are not really close yet and maybe because I don’t get her at all. She looked at me and I waved my hand while I opened our gate. I wonder why I was slowing down.

“Goodbye, Tiffany.” She waved back.

What????!! SHE WAVED BACK??!! Yes!! She’s waving back at me! And she... mentioned my name too. This is just really fascinating.

And is it just me? I feel sort of happy.

She waved back at me and mentioned my name. The mention of my name from her lips sounded different. Was it because her voice was soft? I don’t know, really. Although to tell you the truth, her expression hasn’t changed yet again. And I felt really surprised. Maybe I was the first person to be ever called by her, by name. Heeh.

She took a step and turned her back from me, her bicycle left echoing through the distant road where I found myself watching her walk away. I smiled.

I smiled.

I smiled?! What!?

I touched my lips, and they are smiling! Why am I smiling?! Huh, maybe I just feel happy because I get to talk to Miss Oyster Shell. And I also found out she wasn’t a hologram, neither was she deaf nor have no tongue. And she’s human, really. That’s the greatest revelation ever, Taeyeon would be glad when she heard it. I guess? Everything went well today and I hope, everyday would be just like this. And I hope the awkwardness we feel with each other will pass.

Maybe meeting her wasn’t so bad after all, and mostly, being a class representative too.

04 First Smile

“Ohh~” I stretched my hand up as Tae and I walked home. I wondered how come days could pass by just like this. And I still kept on thinking about yesterday, smiling just because somehow, Jessica had been sort of friendly in my opinion and that, actually she spoke of sentences. Or maybe she was actually trying to get me know her more, in that case giving me a chance. I wondered more about her.

What...?

I stiffened at my thoughts and I could see Tae staring at me while my hand was still stretched up. Admittedly, I looked like my body has been plastered to be in that position and I looked funny, so I just shrugged it off, thinking that maybe Tae didn’t realize that peculiar look on my face. I dropped my hands and grinned at her purposely. Maybe in this way, she would just let me off.

“You still haven’t told me what happened yesterday.” Taeyeon was still looking at me like I was keeping a death threat from her, her eyebrows forming into a ‘v’ while she observed me with those, ‘you-shall-not-tell-lies-Fany-or-else’ eyes.

“Y-Yesterday?” I was trying not to think about how I made Jessica called my name, waved back at me and had a somewhat decent conversation. Furthermore, I didn’t want to tell Tae the details. Something is really holding me back to tell the details. I don’t know which. But I guess it’s finalize, I won’t go into details.

“Well, everything went fine. Jessi--- well Jung was not really that bad of a ‘partner’ at all.” I stiffened again as to how my lips curved at the mention of her name. And the ‘partner’ word made me twitched a bit too, the word is not that really appropriate but that’s how Tae put it anyway, so I guess it would be fine.

“I see. So, nice thing you two are having a break today. Well, anyway, it looks like she’s not as ice cold as she is when I look at her.” Taeyeon was staring directly into something I couldn’t comprehend. I thought she was looking at a tree nearby but I don’t think that would interest her.

“Huh? What do you mean ‘not as ice-cold’?” her words just sunk into my mind. What was she trying to compel?

“’Not an ice-cold’. She’s not as ice-cold, not when she’s with you or around you.” I saw a smirk forming onto her face and I don’t know why. It felt like she was pertaining into something I couldn’t comprehend. And it started to make me feel kind of uncomfortable.

“What do you mean?”

“I’m just thankful you two are going along well.” My best friend looked at me and smiled.

“Oh... that..” Was all I could say. I was thinking of saying more but like I’ve said I don’t want to reveal as much as I want. I just hope her interrogation about me with Jessica would be over. I don’t want to talk about it anyway. Ugh.

I don’t know why I just feel sort of embarrassed by just letting out the details, telling out the story.

Just when did I---

“You’re not really listening? Are you, Fany?” I heard her sigh and made a sound I can’t distinguish what.

“H-Hey I’m listening, Tae~” I sounded like I was whining and trying to convince her that I’m really paying attention into her every word. Taeyeon just looked at me and frowned.

“I said you better introduce me to Jessica.” Taeyeon’s words suddenly echoed into my ears. Was she serious about what she had said?

Just when did Jessica interest her..?

I weighed my thoughts again and just nodded at her. Unable to decide why should I be the one to introduce her. It’s not that we’re really close or anything. And it’s not as though Jessica and I are friends now. Puzzled. I was totally at lost as to what Taeyeon was trying to hit on. I am slow with these kinds of things. And, why would Tae like to know her? What made her seem interested to her? I wondered so much, it made me became more confused the more I think about them.

“Why?” I asked her suddenly, just so the questions that had been bugging me would disappear.

“Is that wrong?” Taeyeon’s tone was unusual. Her tone was kind of sarcastic, or was it anger? Why would she be angry anyway?

Maybe Taeyeon likes her...?

But Tae~ah wouldn’t like someone like her!! Impossible!

I shook my head in frustration and I could sense Taeyeon had never left her eyes on me. Where was this heading? I don’t know. I can’t seem to organize my thoughts. I am a first year high school, spending the first weeks of classes, having her first week as a class representative, having her first week spent with a total stranger that is as intriguing like a showbiz star and having confusion as to how and why her best friend is just acting different today. I am totally a noob, or whatever you call it, at this.

“You’re acting different.” Taeyeon stared at me with confusion too. Her eyes didn’t even blink. I think I should be the one to ask her that, but she was the one darting those words towards me. I flinched.

“A-Am I?” I stuttered. I can’t even seem to input all those things that had been happening, I’m feeling so many emotions at once that I feel like I’m at lost for words. My feelings are getting complex.

“Tiffany, I think you need to rest. I don’t want to talk to you tomorrow with your state like that again. You’re totally not you, it feels like you’re not telling something to me. And although I respect that, I just feel uncomfortable with how you act. You shouldn’t have looked too obvious. I think you’re thinking too much, thinking too much of things. And, you keep on spacing out.” My best friend sighed and she gave up on me. She had her points laid out well, and that just made me think more. I swam in my own sea of thoughts.

Am I?

I was questioning myself. I can’t seem to answer it though. I shook off my thoughts and thought that this would just pass. Everything will pass, maybe I’m just having ‘high school anxiety’ or maybe I am still trying to cope up with the new high school system plus class representative thingy. Maybe. I will get used to this anyway.

The next day, another ‘work’ as a class representative awaited Jessica and I. I kept on pestering my brain as to how this ‘work’ should be included in our responsibilities. The school could have just hired a gardener to water all of these plants and to arrange this garden. It looked severely unfavourable as to why the school would still pick class representatives to just water their own plants. I found myself frowning with these thoughts and as soon as I was getting out of the room to go to our ‘section’s garden’, I could still sense that Taeyeon looks at me the way she looked at me yesterday. I feel bad about us, we haven’t talked much at all. It’s because I am still guilty because I am in the same state again and what’s worse? I know the reason behind it. I am conscious every time I’m around my best buddy, I am conscious that I am keeping something from her and I don’t want to spill the beans and it makes me frustrated that it’s all about Jessica. Maybe it’s just because I know Taeyeon would be teasing me with her again, and in fact, I hate that.

What should it even matter?

“Hey..” I sounded like all was normal. Taeyeon glanced at me and fixed her eyes on me. I hate that look in her eyes. It feels like she was still interrogating me.

“Gardening work?” she asked.

“Yea..” This was the very first time I found myself not knowing what to say to her.

Just what are you doing Tiffany? Why are you acting up so defensive..? You’re acting on impulse and you’re ending up hurting your best bud. And now what? This issue is just about Jessica, who in turn doesn’t know that she’s involved here because you’re emphasizing too much of everything!

“Stupid.”

I could suddenly hear Jessica’s words in my ears. Ugh. I tried to cover my ears and Tae~ looked at me like I was nuts.

“Fany, stop being guilty, okay? Just what the hell are you doing?” My lips trembled with her words.

“H-How..?”

“You’re just too transparent best friend.” Taeyeon tapped me on the shoulder and smiled at me. She knows me well, too well. I smiled back at her, apologetically. And she seemed to understand. Yes, she always finds a way to understand even if I’m not really understandable most of the time.

“It’s not like I have to know everything. All of us need space for ourselves. And all of us, there would always be something that we wouldn’t like to share even to our best---est friend. Take your time.” She whispered at me and I back tracked a step. She smiled again and is it just me or did I actually saw her glance a little at Jessica?

My best friend said goodbye at me and left the school. Again, I was left along with Miss Oyster Shell. She had already gone to our garden, so I hurriedly went there too. I was walking hurriedly and I could already saw her blonde hair, streaming through the rays of the sun. She was holding a hose on her right hand, and she walked to the faucet, letting the hose pushed the water out, making the plants glitter with the flow of the water. And they looked refreshed. Jessica was staring not on the plants but on somewhere else, I followed the direction of her eyes but all I could see was the wall so I took my steps to get near to her. She noticed I was already there and she looked at me.

Still that expression, huh?

“Hey.” Her face composed and unchanged.

“He-he---he...He-he---heyyyy-y..” I was stuttering and I don’t know why, she was still looking at me, her one brow rising and she looked away. All I could do was to go on her right and on her left, still trying to find out what she was looking at. I looked up and down and sideways again and I could tell she thinks of me as really weird although she hasn’t really moved an inch.

Where is this icy girl looking at?!

“This.” She answered me and pointed at something, as if she was able to read my mind. Which in fact, she did. Now, does she also have mind telepathy?

I looked at where her finger pointed. It pointed beneath the water bursting out from the hose by which the sun’s rays lay, shining. What I saw? A miniature rainbow, it stood out there formed between the sun’s rays and the water. Beautiful, even though the sun’s heat was making my eyes small or should I say, smaller. I smiled, eye-smiled and I could see through the heat that Jessica was looking at me then I looked back at her.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” she looked away, shifting her eyes to the miniature rainbow. And all I could do was to nod in reply, how come I just saw this now. She looked beautiful, while the sun’s shadow was resting on her face, it was softening her features a little bit.

I shook my head.

What is going in my mind???!! Just when did I start to realize that she was captivating my thoughts? I don’t understa-----

*looks at you, yes you reader, what do you think of this? I am confused!! HEEEEELLLP~ what am I feeling?*

I looked away. I can’t even think about it, am I admiring here!? If so, how come??? What to admire in her??!!!! I can’t think of anything!!! Am I admiring her expression? What the heck. I don’t even seem to sound stupid, in fact, I sounded more stupid.

I thought I felt heat flowing through my cheeks. I put my hand on them. Was it even summer? Maybe because of the temperature, I wonder how I felt so hot suddenly. I found myself fanning with my hand unconsciously. She was looking at me with observant eyes and I looked up at her.

She smiled and bent her head down, trying to look at the plants.

She smiled........

She smiled...

She smiled...

And it left my mouth gaping.

She smiled... And I was left, hanging like a computer. I can’t seem to process the way she looked, my brain was overloading. And she actually knows how to smile, her lips curved in a way that makes it alluring, making me mesmerized...I left walking blindly, slowly trying to focus my eyes only on her face then...

I tripped..

Ouch!!! Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuu~ What stupidity is that?! Oh Fany, just what the hell are you doing??? Fany-fail or Fany-clumsy! Whatever you call that.

I snapped back to reality.

I looked at my knee while I sit up, looked up and Jessica was already there, in front of me. I retreated backward because our faces were just inches away from each other. She was looking at the wound and I was stupidly blowing air through it, as if blowing would make the pain I feel, alleviate.

“You all right?” She asked while still looking at a small circular wound on my right knee.

“Y-Yes I am all right!!!” I stood up suddenly, trying to pretend the pain was gone and then I heard someone was walking from the bushes. Jessica too, stood up, looked around and looked back again at me.

It’s as if she haven’t heard anything and continued to water the plants and carry some pots to their respective places. I stared at the bushes, and saw a girl, standing far away from us. Her tall figure and black hair flowed through her hips. I could sense that the expression on her face meant dislike, even disgust. And I know I’ve seen her before, I just don’t know when or where. She turned her back from us and left. I looked at Jessica who, turned out to be, was also looking where the girl stood awhile ago. I observed her face and her eyebrows suddenly twitched. Lines were forming on her forehead.

“What about lend me a hand Tiffany?” She asked me while she got back to gardening work. The new expression on her face awhile ago, was subsiding.

“Oh, yes.”

My mind was flying while I help Jessica. Jessica, whose face expression had just changed to a smile and what looked like curiosity. She now has three expressions in my eyes, her poker expression, her smiling face plus her curious face. And I drew in my mind other expressions she could muster. There’s one thing I had discovered, her face was not plastered to be like a poker-face.

And I wonder who that girl was, who stood and left. And that look on her face! It felt like she would eat me alive or something!! Did I do anything?? O man!

I sighed deeply.

05 First Impression

Taeyeon and I went to the cafeteria to eat our lunch. Somehow, and still, I can’t get over about what happened yesterday. That girl from the bush was making me use my brain too much.

I guess I am really thinking too much. As much as I want, I can’t understand what I am feeling and what’s happening.

We walked pass the chairs and tables after eating. Taeyeon kept on talking about school stuff as we walk on. Then I suddenly stiffened at the sight of the girl eating on the table beside the door of the cafeteria. Taeyeon noticed that I halted and she stopped too, wondering why I suddenly came into a halt. My mouth opened slightly and I pointed my fingers at the girl who in return just looked at me.

“YOUUUUUU!!!!!!” I pointed at her. Taeyeon’s eyes widened with my sudden action and tried to put my hand down but I managed to avoid it.

“It’s you!! You!!! Yesterday, you’re the one who----” I said again towards the girl and she just looked at me. Taeyeon covered me in front and giggled in pretension towards the girl.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, I’m sorry.” The girl smiled at me in reply. Her features yesterday were far far more different today. She looked friendly and warm.

“But it’s y----“

“S-Sorry my.. uhh, my friend doesn’t know what she is... talking aboutt~” Taeyeon let out a small laugh and I could see sweat forming on her neck. She grabbed me by the hand and we exited the cafeteria. I removed her hand on me and faced her.

“Taeyeon! What are you doing?!” I sounded defeated.

“I should be the one to ask you, what you are doing talking to her! Oh Fany, you’re stressing me out!” She said while we walked hurriedly.

“And you don’t know her?” She continued to look at me with her eyebrows meeting at the centre of her forehead.

“Huh? What do you mean???” I sounded confused for a moment.

“Oh. Em. Gee.” Taeyeon said as I looked at her lips forming those words. I hate this dwarfy, having to think of things again! It’s like she’s making me answer a Sudoku!! Pfff. And mind you, I’m not good with sudokus. I don’t know what to do with those grids!

“I really don’t know what you’re doing at school Tiffany! Do you even know someone besides me and Jessica???” she dropped her hands in frustration.

“You don’t know Kwon Yuri???” she continued.

“Kwon who---“ I became puzzled. How did Taeyeon know her? I tried to ponder my thoughts, that Kwon girl hasn’t been my classmate the past years and I just saw her yesterday. Huh?And and and the worst, she sounded like she doesn’t know anything about yesterday! Did she have amnesia or was she just sleep walking into the garden yesterday?!

“Oh my gosh Tiffany, you’re making me laugh!” I heard her giggle. She put some books and closed her locker. I too opened my own locker and got my copy of “Mathematics for Dummies”. Algebra is making my head hurt. I would ask Tae~ to tutor me before the day of exams. Heeh. And I would just repay her with sweets. Heeeeh. I smiled at my plan.

I closed my locker with frustration.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about Tae!” I sounded more defeated now.

“AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!’ Her witch-like laugh echoed into the hallway, making people look at her like she’s nuts. She was also tapping the locker continuously, making her look more... uhhh nuts!! I’m not even kidding around!! What’s funny, I don’t get it!

Taeyeon looked at me and was controlling her laugh but she burst out laughing again.

“Taeyeon! Enough!!” I rolled my eyes with annoyance.

“Sorry Funny. I mean Faaaanyy.” She giggled a little, stressing at the ‘a’ of my name.

“What’s funny?!” I frowned.

“Tiffany, you really don’t know her? Are you really going to school?? Or have you always left your brain inside your house?” She grinned widely at me. Why can’t she just say it directly! I hate this~

“Anyway, you don’t really see her?” Taeyeon’s face became serious.

“Uh uh.” I replied and she was controlling her laugh again.

“Gosh, Fany. Yuri is our classmate!!” Taeyeon crossed her arms.

“Huh? But I don’t see—“

“How come you could not see her? She’s tall! And she is just sitting behind me! What the... Fany!” Taeyeon sighed and breathed deeply, making her lips curled upwards.

“Do your eyes see someone other than your ‘partner’???” she continued and grinned again.

“What does Jessi--- I meant, Jung have to do with this???” And now my best friend is connecting Jessica again, connecting her with everything. I hate it, she sounded like I fancied Jessica or something!! But, why didn’t I know that Yuri was our classmate!? It’s because I’m always daydreaming? Definitely!! I don’t need to know everyone in the classroom, do I?

I don’t need to pay attention at everything too!

“Anyway, why are you talking that way with her?? It felt like she owed you something or she had done something??!” Taeyeon was interrogating me again. INTERROGATION PLAN: TAE~MODE IS ON.

“Well, yesterday, Jessica and me saw her on the bushes.. And---“

“Bushes???” Taeyeon cut me off.

“Yes bushes and she was looking at us. Jessica and me, with her face frowning!” I was hysterical.

“Huh? Are you sure that person is her? I mean, I’ve got to talk to her when I have chances, and she’s quite nice.” Taeyeon said in disbelief.

“Ehhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh???” I said while forcing out my smile out.

“Are you sure about that Tae??” I whined.

“Why would Yuri interest you anyway???” Taeyeon crossed her arms and we started to walk back to our classroom.

“Maybe you’re just mistaken!” Taeyeon insisted.

“But it is really her! I know it! The moment I saw her!” I insisted my point too.

“Could I trust you about that? And anyway, why would she frown at you, you haven’t done anything! And what’s funny is that, you don’t know her too!!!” I got her point. There’s no sense in insisting that who I saw yesterday was Yuri, I don’t have proofs anyway. Dwarfy is winning this argument again!! Tss.

I thought of something, what if that Yuri-girl has to do with Jessica? What if?! There’s nothing wrong thinking about that anyway right? But that argument is much more invalid!! Why? Because I clearly saw yesterday that she was frowning at me! ME. PERIOD. I need to push through Tae’s brain about this Jessica-Yuri thingy though, just as so she could make connection.

“Well, you’re right... but.. how about Jung?” I asked her, trying to lay my thoughts in front of her.

“Do you think Jung could have talked with her? Of course not, not unless it’s you!! Hello Tiffany, please widen your comprehension skills. Jung doesn’t even talk nor socializes with anyone other than you.” I understand Tae’s point. But why would Yuri look at us that way? Me, to be exact.. I hope it’s nothing serious. Taeyeon wouldn’t understand anyway so I just gave up on talking with her about Yuri.

“Jung doesn’t even talk nor socializes with anyone other than you”

Now that I come to think of it, that’s true. Heeh, and I’m proud.

WHAT TIFFANY!??!!!! Proud?! How the hell.

I spank myself in my mind. What was I thinking—

We reached our class room and Taeyeon sat on her seat. I just really noticed now that well, err Yuri-girl is really sitting behind her. Why did I just notice now? Am I really that absent-minded?! Oh well, same as always. Dwarfy should have told me more about her...My head aches with my intertwining thoughts.

I too, sat on my seat and Jessica looked at me.

“Hey.” I tried to greet her as I caress my stomach.

“I’m so full~” I uttered at her.

“You’re fat.” Jessica said in reply while her cold eyes linger on my stomach. I felt uncomfortable by the way she stared at my... stomach..

“What??! Am I?!” I replied to her in panic.

“I’m just kidding.” She smiled for the second time. The first time was yesterday. I could again feel the heat on my cheeks rise and I looked outside the window. It’s not even that hot. Maybe because of the soup I’ve eaten awhile ago.

“You did know Yuri was our classmate??” I whispered at her while I move my chair closer.

“Yes.” She answered me like she was bored.

“EHHHHHHH!!!!!?” I yelled at her and the whole class was staring at me again. I smiled awkwardly at them and hid my face with my “Mathematics for Dummies” book. I put it down slowly beneath my eyes when I could already sense that their shock gazes left me, and Yuri was looking at me too. My eyes shifted to Taeyeon and she looked embarrassed by what I did. I smiled and looked at Yuri again. She smiled at me like I was some kind of comedian.

Huh?! Yes she smiled back at me. So, that girl from yesterday wasn’t really her then!?? But it cannot be!!! It’s all the same! Her eyes, her hair and even her height!! My vision is 20/20, I could have never mistaken her for someone else!! A doppelganger?!

Oh Tiffany, for once, stop reading too much sci-fi books!

I looked at Jessica whose gaze at Yuri was like that of yesterday. What’s happening?! I observed Yuri’s face and she too, smiled at Jessica before looking away.

I stared at Jessica for a moment because I was trying to decode what she was thinking but I failed. She then looked at me with her ultimate blank face. How the hell that blank face looked so intimidating!

“What do you think?” I suddenly uttered, asking her in a very low whisper.

“What do you mean?” she was staring at the book I was holding on my hand.

“About her.” I continued.

“Nothing.” She answered and looked away.

“Anyway Tiffany, that book you’re holding is for elementary students. And your pink pen is sliding down your pocket.” She arranged her skirt down and focused her eyes on the teacher who is now in front.

06 First Crush

“Where are we goi—“ Taeyeon pulled my hand as she dragged me along the corridor. I don’t even know why she was doing this to me. She just said that we should head back to the gymnasium. We just had our aerobics (yeah you read it right readers, aerobics! Our PE for this uhm, semester. .___.) there and she was just so excited to come back there again!! After all the sweat and as to how my body had stretched?! I don’t even know why I deserved to be dragged by this I-am-Tae-who-still-has-energy-after-aerobics-class-SHORTY!!!!!!

“Taeyeon!! Why are we coming back??! Did you forget something?! I think we should change back to our uniforms!!! I feel so dirty!!!” I tried to pull my hand away but her grip was just hard.

“Oh Tiffany, you’ll never regret this!” I could sense that shorty was smiling as we walked hurriedly towards the gymnasium door. And when we entered, I could see basketball players. I wandered my eyes around and saw that a game was happening. Taeyeon and I stopped near the benches and I could see fangirls all over.

Why the heck would basketball interest me and Tae!?

I crossed my arms as I frowned. I don’t even know the mechanics of this game. And this shorty beside me is not even a sports fan or something!

“Tae, what are we doing here?!” I asked her annoyingly. She was clapping her hands and she was jumping, a big smile was painted on her face. And I have guessed she didn’t hear me at all because of the shouts of the people around the gym.

“Tae!!” I shook her shoulders.

“What?!” She replied at me, one of her eyebrows rising.

“What are we doing here? I mean in here?! We’re just here to watch??” I asked her, trying to speak the way she does every time she wants to interrogate me.

“Oh, I forgot. My crush is here..” She looked down and I thought I saw her cheeks flushed.

“WHAT???!!!!” I answered her with disbelief.

“How... c-c-c-c-c-c-come you would have a crush here?! THIS IS GIRLS’ BASKETBALL!!!!” I yelled at her amidst the shouts. I knew she had heard by what I said once she looked at me with those fierce eyes. Then she slapped me then she giggled. Violent shorty!!! Hmf.

“What the..?” I told her.

“She is my crush..” She blushed again and I saw the girl. Err, she was the one holding the ball and her short brown hair waved cutely?! as she run. What I noticed as soon as I shifted my eyes to picture her whole body was her long legs.

“ARE YOU KIDDING ME???!!” I answered with shocked.

“AHAHAHAHAHAHA~” I laughed hard. She then pulled my hair and I struggled to make her hand leave it.

“Oww. Ouch! Hey that hurts!!!” I said when I successfully removed her hand and she frowned at me.

“Are you really uhh, serious?” I tried to control my giggles.

“Do you think I would bring you back here just to watch this? You know I’m not a sports fanatic!! Fany, you do have common sense right? And you know me.” She crossed her arms as she continued to frown.

“Okay, okay. I got it. But she is a... .she.” I tried to emphasize on the word.

“Is it wrong to admire a girl!?” Taeyeon countered me while she looked at her uhhh first?! crush.

“Uhm, n-no.” I was unsure of the answer.

“She is Choi Sooyoung~” She said musically as she formed the girl’s name from her lips. At that moment, I just noticed that my best friend looked different. And as I was digesting the words she had said, I just realized that this was the very first time she had told me about her crush. Not, that I question her sexuality... but somehow it felt nice though. To know that Taeyeon is really feeling emotions, which in my point of view, are what normal people feel. I thought all she cared are just grades and school or school and grades.

“Anyway, I have news.” She glanced at me and looked at Sooyoung who was now shooting the ball from the three-point side of the court. And she made the ball into the ring. Wow. Taeyeon clapped again in amazement.

“What news?!” I suddenly sound worried because I was thinking of Yuri, Yuri and the bush. Okay it’s ‘and Yuri’. But she’s quiet in the room and I didn’t see on her face the look she gave me four days ago. Oh! And now that I mentioned her name, I saw her in one of the benches sitting, she was cheering too.

Cheering too...

WHAT?! Even Yuri was a fangirl of this Sooyoung?!

I then whispered to Taeyeon that Yuri was there. Taeyeon looked at me and she smiled.

“The news Fany is that I already picked the club where I wanted~” She said joyously. What the..? She didn’t even tell me about this! This is unfair!!!! Grrr. Now, what should I do to revenge from this dwarfy? I want to again, for the second time, bury her smallness, six feet below the ground!!

“Why you didn’t tell me about it!!!?” I shouted at her so she would still hear me even though so many fangirls filled the court. God, fangirls everywhere, fangirls of this Sooyoung!! I could see all banners and also cheer leaders cheering her name.

“S-O-O-Y-O-U-N-G ~L-O-V-E~~!! GO! GO! GO!!! Fight! Win!! Shikshin!!” These words echoed through court and Taeyeon was also yelling this on top of her lungs. How did my best friend turn out to be like this?!

“What club?! I would sign up myself!!” I dropped my hands into frustration while we exited the gym. The game has ended and Sooyoung’s team won. Although Taeyeon told me it was just a practiced match, it felt like it was the championship game. Pff..

“Why didn’t you tell me you would already join a club!! You didn’t even ask me if I would like to be with you!!” I continued, annoyed. I thought she is my best friend?

“Because I know you wouldn’t want to join!” She said defensively. What?! How would she know?! She hasn’t even asked me yet?!

“How would you know?! You haven’t even asked me yet!!” I blurted out what’s on my mind.

“I’m sorry about it, Fany. But the impulse just got through me.” Her face suddenly turned soft.

“It’s okay! There’s nothing I could do!! Just tell me what club you’re in and I would sign myself up!!” I said to her hysterically. I’m not even planning on joining a club but this morning, our adviser said that we should. It’s a requirement and it’s a must! But I was still being indecisive and wishy-washy about what club I should go in. Ugh. This dwarfy should have given me suggestions!!

“You sure about that?!”

“Just tell me what club!! Even if that’s Math Wizards’ Club!!! Or anything!!!” I told her with defeat.

“I.. well..” I saw again that blush forming on her face and I knew it!

“Did you?! Did you join the GIRLS’ BASKETBALL CLUB?!!!!” I shook her shoulders continuously, my eyes widened with shock. How did she become so addicted with this Sooyoung?! When she just told me about her today???

“Of course not!!!”

“Then what club?! I thought you were now getting obsessive with her!”

“Tiffany, forgive me. But well...” She clasped her hands. I could sense that she felt nervous and again her cheeks were blushing. What the heck.

“Fany, I joined...” Then she turned her back from me, slowly.

“Hey! Just tell it to me! You’re making me itchy!!” I turned her around so that she would face me again. She held her cheek with her two hands.

“I am shy~” And she smiled shyly at me.

“Oh Taeyeon! You dork!!” I put my hands on my waist. She wiggled her body. What the heck was she doing?!

“Tae~ah!!!!” Then she exhaled heavily when she heard her name.

“Fany... I joined SOOYOUNG’S FANS CLUB!!” She hugged me and she wiggled her body again. She looked some kind of a jelly fish dancing in the sea. And as I processed her words...

SHE JOINED A ‘FANS CLUB’????!!!!

I shouted in disbelief. I looked at her again with eyes poking out of its sockets. Her hands held her blushing cheek again and for the third time she was wiggling. I can now picture a caterpillar dancing on the tree. What imagination Fany!

“Oh gosh, Taeyeon!!!” I cannot speak a word.

“Could you believe it? Could you believe it?! We had taken an exam to be able to get into her fans club!! Could you believe it? I perfected the exam and it was all about her! I perfected it! I was the high scorer!!!!!” Taeyeon was now ballet dancing.

“Ah~” She suddenly put her hands on her chest. It’s as if she was trying to feel her heartbeat that was only for this Sooyoung.

OH.EM.GEE. I don’t know her. I think I don’t. I suddenly wished Taeyeon would be the same as before, the one who just loves grades and school.

My mouth opened slightly at what she said. Speechless, moreover she was already driving me insane.

“Tiffany, would you like to join?! But I won’t review you about it or tell you something about her. And don’t even. Try. To. Cheat.” She said it like I was already taking a board exam.

“Of course I won’t join that club!! I would just find other clubs! There are tons of them anyway!!” I told her. She was right, I could have never liked that club.

“Sorry Fany~ah~” she said sweetly to me and I pushed her lightly away from me.

“Eh, you’re angry best friend?” She pouted.

“Not. I guess there’s nothing I could do but to support you.” I sighed.

“Thank you Fany~” We locked arms.

“Taeyeon, would you tell me how the hell did you know about that Sooyoung?” I asked her and I could feel my eyebrows twitching. We changed back into our school uniforms and headed towards the school gate.

“She is popular Tiffany!!! And Yuri told me about her!!” She said.

“What?!”

“She kept a portfolio about Sooyoung~ They are so niceeee and pretty~~ Sooyoung is so handsome.” She smiled, heavenly.

“Huhn?? Yuri???!!” I uttered in disbelief.

“Oh, Yuri also dragged me into that amazing club~ and Yuri is one of the club’s administrator!!! Lucky girl!! And she also got tons of Sooyoung merchandise~! I envy her!! I swear I would have each and one of those!! Especially that jersey dearest Sooyoung was wearing today~” She grinned.

“This Sooyoung??”

“She is a sophomore. And ever since she joined the basketball team, we kept winning~” Her eyes looked dreamy now. I looked ahead and motioned her that we were already nearing the school gate. Taeyeon said her goodbye to me.

“Bye Bye Fany!” she waved her hand and I waved back at her.

She went home first because I still have to do gardening work with Jessica. Niiiiyayyyyyy. I’m getting lazy but I am looking forward to spending time with her. What?!

I guess there’s nothing more I could do about Tae.. I sighed.

As I reached the garden, Jessica was already there, watering the plants. She looked at me and greeted me with her usual blank face. I wondered if we’re going anywhere?

“Why the frown on your face?” She asked me and looked back at the plants as she watered them.

“Me? Am I?” I suddenly felt my lips transforming into a pout.

“Yea.” She answered with her usual icy soft voice.

“Well, it’s because Taeyeon doesn’t even told me that she had already joined a club!!!” I gave up with what she noticed. I need someone to listen over my whining. Then I pause for a while and I continued as I felt that she was really listening.

“Taeyeon joined a club that wouldn’t even interest me! Not at all! So now I am having a problem about what club should I join...” I said and being stressed out could be traced with my words.

“Did you join a club already?” Why am I even asking her this?! I don’t know!!

“No.” She glanced at me then back to the plants. Oh, I forgot about the plants, I carried some pots and arranged them to the other side of the garden as I talk.

“Eh? Aren’t you planning to join? It’s required you know.” I told her as I put one last pot on the other side.

“I know. It’s just that, I’m lazy to sign up. But I guess I’ll sign up tomorrow.” She glanced again at me. Being boring could be traced on her voice.

“Oh. What club would you join?” I asked her. I wish I could be as decisive as her.

“Arts club.” She answered cooly.

“Wow! You like arts?” I asked her, fascinated with what she said.

“Would you like to sign up with me then?” She asked me so sudden that it took me time to process her words. SHE IS ASKING ME IF I WANT TO JOIN THE CLUB WITH HER!! And the longer I think of my answer, the more I realize that I really do like arts. Even though it doesn’t like me that much, I know that I enjoy it.

“So?” She asked me again. And I was reluctant for a moment.

“Well... Uhh...” I am trying to find my words on the ground as I stare on it.

“W-Well... if i-it’s all right with you.....” I looked at her. And just like a shot of an arrow, I felt my cheeks turning to heat up. What the..?! I suddenly placed my hands on my cheeks like what Taeyeon did awhile ago.

“Of course, it’s all right. I’m the one who asked you, right?” Her lips turned to smile at me.

Like what Taeyeon did awhile ago.

And in a flash I remembered what happened awhile ago.

“Oh, I forgot. My crush is here..” She looked down and I thought I saw her cheeks flushed.

“WHAT???!!!!” I answered her with disbelief.

“How... c-c-c-c-c-c-come you would have a crush here?! THIS IS GIRLS’ BASKETBALL!!!!” I yelled at her amidst the shouts. I knew she had heard by what I said once she looked at me with those fierce eyes! Then she slapped me then she giggled. Violent shorty!!! Hmf.

“What the..?” I told her.

“She is my crush..” She blushed again and I saw the girl. Err, she was the one holding the ball and her short brown hair waved cutely?! as she run. What I noticed as soon as I shifted my eyes to picture her whole body was her long legs.

As I try to connect what Taeyeon was doing awhile ago with what I was doing now, the realization struck me like lightning.

I..... I.... I have a crush.... on Jessica?!

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO~!!!

And I thought about it more... deeply...

“Okay, okay. I got it. But she is a... .she.” I tried to emphasize on the word.

“Is it wrong to admire a girl!?” Taeyeon countered me while she looked at her uhhh crush.

“Uhm, n-no.” I was unsure of the answer.

I comforted myself.

Don’t worry Tiffany, you only admire her. There’s not thing wrong with that. Yea, right, right. I sighed in relief. There’s nothing wrong, okay? Yes, it’s okay! Fighting!

I opened my eyes and I just realized that Jessica was staring at me the whole time. Well, it’s still her blank face in front of me so I guess it’s all right. Heeh.

“Weirdo.” I saw her lips forming another annoying word. At least, I’m not stupid anymore! DUH. I tried to smile at her.

And she smiled back. Was she even serious?!

“Join with me.” Her voice was commanding.

“Okay...” I smiled and the heat was more ignited on my cheeks. And she smiled for the second time.

“Let’s go home? We’ve already finished everything we need to do here.” She walked passed me.

“Let’s go.” She spoke again and I followed her voluntarily. And as we walked home together with her bicycle, many things had been swimming inside my mind. I was thinking of the things that happened way back four days ago until today. That maybe, I could get some clues as to who was the girl in the bush. I’m persistent, ain’t I? It’s because I really know that it was Yuri, I am certain. I am putting each piece like a jigsaw puzzle.

Now I am getting more confused. So Yuri is a fan of Sooyoung but the way she looked at me four days before, what was that?! I don’t think this got something to do with Sooyoung, or is it? Or is it Tae~?? But she was the one who invited Tae~ to join the club?! And why would she be angry with me?! I can’t connect this Sooyoung with me?! How about Jessica? Totally a no-no. Jessica doesn’t talk to others except with me.

JESSICA DOESN’T TALK TO OTHERS EXCEPT WITH ME.

And I felt my worries suddenly subside by the mention of her name. That felt right.

HUH???!

07 First Touch

Grrr, I am just so bored. I feel a little sleepy and a little tired to think of things over. Teacher is teaching about polynomials and I’m not even listening. Totally hopeless. Then I glanced at Taeyeon. Okay, I’m not really hopeless. I’m a bit exaggerating but then after thinking of Taeyeon tutoring me, I also got the idea about her new obsession, err well I want to put it that way, Sooyoung. She was boasting at me awhile ago about her pin that she put on her bag. It says “I♥SY” and I was like, “SY who?” and she glared at me like I was talking blasphemy over her crush. How did she ever---

As I was thinking more of things, Jessica suddenly put a small pink paper on my desk. I’m guessing it came from her “post-its”. It was folded in two, and I looked at her and she just nodded at me. She looked different today, she don’t talk. I wonder why, she just kept on shaking or nodding her head at me every time I would talk to her. Hmmm.

I glanced back at the paper again and slowly reached my hand for it. I felt weird. And I could sense that she was looking at me so I looked at her too. Is it just me or she suddenly looked away? I exhaled. My admiration towards her was getting more unbearable and obvious. I wonder why or am I just getting paranoid? I could feel again the heat towards my cheeks and my heart beating fast.

WHAT?! MY HEART WAS BEATING FAST?! HOW THE HELL?! WHEN DID I START TO EVEN FEEL THIS?!

I tried to remove the feeling away and opened the paper. I swallowed the words, clearly and slowly: “Tiffany, are you free this lunch?” Asking me for a date? NO WAY.

I looked at her again and her cold eyes piercing mine. Then I started writing my reply: “Yes I think, why?”

I held the paper towards her. She too, started writing back as soon as she received the paper, “We should sign-up for the club.”

“Okay, by the way, why aren’t you talking?” My words seemed unsure. They were slanting because I was getting conscious of the heat I felt rising more on my cheeks. I folded the paper. Damn, when did I start to get conscious with everything I do?! I controlled my slight trembling and returned the paper to her. She unfolded it and I found myself just staring at her, hoping that she would well, say something to me. I am worried as to why she wouldn’t talk. I didn’t do anything bad, right reader? She looked at me then looked away, putting the paper inside her bag. What the heck. I gave up and just started to calm myself, I need to listen to the teacher, exams are coming and I haven’t got decent notes!!!

“Fany~ah!! Are you even listening?” I suddenly looked up and saw Taeyeon standing in front me.

“Well.. that..” I can’t defend myself. I was totally caught red-handed.

“Spacing out too much!!” She glanced at Jessica who was still on her seat. I don’t know why the hell she’s still there. Is she eavesdropping? Ugh.

“I said a while ago that I cannot go home with you today!” she sounded pissed off.

“Why?” I was out of focus.

“We have club activities! We would be preparing this good-luck celebration for Sooyoung’s team! The real game would be starting after the exams and oh, this is a good-luck celebration for her examinations too!!” And again, I could see that spark forming on her eyes. She looked like she was in a dream. At least she was not ballet dancing or being a caterpillar slash jellyfish today.

“Okay, good luck~ Your club seemed really active and busy.” I smiled at her. My best friend is enjoying this. I hope I could enjoy Arts Club too.

“Have you picked your club?” Taeyeon asked me and I glanced at Jessica. What the...? She was already looking at me! And I could feel Taeyeon’s eyes moving on Jessica and me, then back again on me to Jessica.

“Jessica and I.. Well... Arts Club..” I said shyly. When did I also start to feel shy?!

“Wow, that’s good then!” Taeyeon exclaimed. Her voice looked contented. Pff.

“Jessica.” Taeyeon called blondie’s attention. Jessica looked at her too, with her cold eyes. And I started my stomach flip-flop.

I am loving that expression on her face. Heeh.

“Take care of Fany~ah for me.” Taeyeon winked at her and Jessica looked like she was controlling her smile. Or was she?

WHAT THE HECK, I AM IMAGINING THINGS!

Then Jessica just nodded at her, coolly and calmly.

“Thank you, Jessica.” Taeyeon grinned and the hell, I could again feel the heat and my heart. Man, I hate this. Admiring her more is just out of my control.. I wonder too much why and how am I admiring her... but at least I’m not as obsessed as this Shorty. Yea, right.

Taeyeon just said goodbye after that, we haven’t eaten lunch yet!! I am hungry as hell! She has club activities even at lunch time!! This Sooyoung’s Fans Club is having their meeting for their celebration. Wow, Taeyeon would be real busy. I sighed then I stood up. There’s nothing I could do but to eat alone. Oh my, when did I start to be emo? I guess a little time for myself is not that bad.

*Reader, you want to eat lunch with me? Oh, you would want to read though, never mind!! Hmf.*

As I walked towards the door, a girl suddenly grabbed my arm. I looked at the girl and I was shocked, Jessica. Oh my, she is holding my arm. I could now feel something else, like I was being electrified. What is this?! I was thinking of removing her grip but I can’t seem to act on it. I felt like my body wasn’t mine to control.

“Where are we going?” I asked her as we walked along the corridor and students were staring at us. Why are they even in awe—

“Club.” She uttered like a whisper.

“Oh, I forgot.” I was still oblivious to the fact that Jessica was holding my arm. She is cold but her hand... it felt warmer on my skin. Warmer. I smiled on myself. The feel of her hand on my skin is soft...

What?!

“Here.” She handed me the application and we were now falling in line for the Arts Club. I got the pink pen on my pocket and I could see in my peripheral vision that she was staring on the pen. I looked up at her.

“You’re liking this pen?” I asked her and she nodded. I smiled and I handed her the pen as soon as I finished filling up the application. She stared on the pen for a moment and started writing.

Why is my pen, interests her this much?

She got my paper and gave it to the club administrator. The administrator was a guy, gosh, why did I just notice now, he is our teacher in Arts Subject and all he teaches us every meeting is to make origami. Does origami interest Jessica for her to join this club? Well, at least I wouldn’t be busy like Tae. It’s already hard balancing my studies and being a CR, although I don’t really study. Heeh.

“Welcome to Arts Club~” our Arts teacher said happily and we bowed in front of him and just left. He said that he would just announce if we would have activities. Now, I am getting hungrier, I glanced at my watch and we still have forty minutes to eat. We. I looked at Jessica who was now beside me. Walking beside me.

“Hungry?” She said again in her whispery voice. Why does she looked colder than before and she looked red. And she seemed not composed..

“Y-Yea.”

Then we headed to the cafeteria to buy our food. This is my first lunch with Jessica. Our first lunch. Together.

Tiffany!! Why is this, such a big deal to you?? Does admiring include this??

I was battling with myself.

I put my plate on one of the unoccupied tables and Jessica pulled me away. I thought my plate would slide off the tray.

“What?” I said, puzzled. Her hand was touching my arm again. Then she pointed through the door. We’re eating elsewhere?

I followed her while we take our lunch out. She headed towards the other side of the school and walked up the stairs and I could feel someone was looking at us. I looked back and I thought I saw a tall shadow hiding behind the walls. Who could that be?

Maybe I was still imagining things so I just shrugged it off. We continued to walk and climbed up the staircase again. Just then the realization hit me. We would be eating on the roof top. My heart is beating fast again, why oh why Fany?

I entered first. I let the wind touch my face as soon as I entered. Felt good. I took a seat near the railings and Jessica stared at me, her face as I have said earlier was really pale. I watched her as she slowly put down her food and she sat next to me. I stared at her hand which was trembling a bit. Oh man, my heart was beating faster. What the hell is happening with her? She looked sleepy??! No, it’s not. I can’t comprehend the look on her face.

I glanced at her and she was already looking at me.

“I..” she tried to talk and my mouth was left opening, slightly.

Her face looked disfigured. What’s happening with her?

“I... I ..” she tried to talk again.

I tried to speak. But my heart kept me tongue-tied.

“I.. I feel hot...” She ran her hands on her neck, slowly. WHAT?! What did she mean by that??! AM I TURNING HER ON??!!! No!!! What should I tell her, that this is not the right time and place??!! How to---

And I examined her face, her face was red. Her eyes looked transparent and I could feel her arms touch mine. I looked away, trying to hide what I feel. Then I suddenly felt her head touch my shoulder.

WHY THE HELL IS SHE LEANING HER HEAD ON MY SHOULDER NOW?!

I tried to not look at her, what’s happening??! I am panicking inside. Then I tried to glance a little at her, trying not to be so obvious what she was making me feel. I froze. Her eyes were closed, her face was redder. I touched her forehead, god, she is hot. She has a fever. Why didn’t she tell me awhile ago? That’s why she was so quiet, I meant quieter than usual. She is sick!! This girl really freaks me out. She was sleeping on my shoulder, and the heat which I realized was that I was blushing. Okay, I just admitted but... no!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! maybe her heat was transferring on my cheeks??? I can’t move. I glanced at her again, her face looked calm, more peaceful and her lips, I just noticed they were kind of smiling. I smiled.

I like her.

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO~!!!!

I froze with that random realization. Fany, are you gay or whatttttt?! Then I stared at my watch, our next class would be starting already. What should I do now? I won’t be leaving her here alone, never. I sighed. There’s nothing I could do but to wait for her to wake up. I placed my hand on her forehead again. The heat emitting on her forehead gave me that warm feeling she gave me awhile ago. The same warmth when she held my arm. I guess, she pushed herself too much.

And I closed my eyes too, drifting off to dreamland.

...

I suddenly felt the weight on my shoulder had gone. Slowly, I opened my eyes and found Jessica already standing in front of me. Her colour was back to normal. I straightened my back and try to find the right words to say.

She was looking at me.

And I can’t seem to move my lips.

“Are you all right n-now?” I was uncertain if I made my words comfortable for her. She didn’t reply though. And I noticed that her cheeks were now pinkish. Was she blushing?WHAT?!!!!! Or maybe that was her skin colour, I just haven’t noticed it. Tee-hee.

"You should have said you’re not feeling well.. so that I could have taken you to the clinic..” I continued, avoiding her cold eyes.

“Thank you, Tiffany.” She suddenly uttered. And her words felt right, sincere. Although it couldn’t be seen on her face, it could be traced on her voice. I glanced at my watch.

“It’s dismissal already.” She talked again. I was relieved she’s fine now. I skipped class for the first time in my life. I stiffened. I skipped my Mathematics and Science Class.

“Wah~” My eyes widened with shock.

“Let’s go home.” She said. The dominance on her voice that I’ve heard a thousand times was sending sound waves in my ears. Suddenly, I could feel my mobile phone vibrating inside my pocket. I looked at it and damn 52 missed calls?? All by Taeyeon? She even sent me a couple of SMS!!! THAT SHORTY!!!!!

----------2:05pm---------

FANY!!! WHERE THE HELL

ARE YOU AND JESSICA??!!!

WHAT HAPPENED!?

REPLY ASAP!!! >.<

From: Taeyeon Kim

I suddenly touched my temples, they hurt a little. I started composing my SMS to her. Wasn’t she supposed to be busy for club activities?!

---------3:15pm-----------

Everything’s all right.

Will tell you tomorrow..

I pressed the ‘sent’ button and I looked at Jessica again.

“Yea, let’s go home.” I stood up and suddenly I could hear ‘Kissing you~’ playing. I flinched and Jessica was controlling her smile again. What’s just so funny!? My mobile phone continued to ring. I placed it over my ear. I know this would be shorty.

“Hey...” I sounded like I didn’t want talk to her. Although, it’s true, I don’t want another INTERROGATION 101 with her.

“WHAT HAPPENED???!!!” She yelled on the other line.

“Long story. I’m tired.” I whined. I don’t want to tell her everything. Not now that Jessica is with me.

“You two didn’t-----“ Then I could hear chit-chats on the background.

“WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?!” How come this shorty could think of those things. I am innocent!!!! I was defending myself in my mind.

“Anyway, I’m going home already~” I continued, sounding pissed off. She was accusing me and I am still PURE!!

“Oh, you’re still with Jessica?” she emphasized on her name, musically.

“Yes.” I told her, hiding the anticipation in my voice. Jessica was glancing at me every now and then while we walk and it made me feel conscious of the way I talk.

“Okay. I guess that’s all right huh.. have fun.” she sounded excited. What the heck is this shorty up too?And what?! ‘HAVE FUN’??!! What for?!

“Bye then Fany. Oh, I wouldn’t be going with you to school tomorrow~” she continued while I was digesting the tone of her voice.

“Huh? Why? Club activities again?” I rolled my eyes.

“Yes, there would be another meeting tomorrow~” She told me.

“Okay. You’re enjoying much huh. Have fun~” I tried to copy the way she sounded and Taeyeon didn’t even pay attention to that. I know my tone wasn’t as effective as her. So I have to go to school tomorrow, alone. Again. Pffffff.

I ended the call. I know, unconsciously that Jessica was looking at me the whole time. We walked home, together. I realized we were together the whole day. Gosh.

Gardening work. I stopped and Jessica looked at me.

“We forgot gardening work.” I told her as I tried to calm myself.

“We still have tomorrow. They won’t die that fast.” She uttered to me. And the calmness she was emitting got me too. Yea, we still have tomorrow.

We talked about the club, about origami and stuff. I asked her if origami interests her and she said it doesn’t. So I blamed her for being in the club and she told me why I joined in the first place if I hadn’t like it. Well, I told her because she’s there and it made her quiet. I’m getting used to it, with the silence that befalls us every time we’re together. In fact, I am comfortable with her silence. Moreover, she said she wanted to make paper cranes. Then she suddenly talked about how she liked to draw someone who is smiling genuinely while looking at a sunset. And I wondered why she looked at me differently today. We had random conversations and our talks, they seemed to be longer this time and every once in a while she would smile at me. Although she didn’t even mention about what happened earlier at the roof top, neither did I. I guess we both feel that it should be avoided. It made me think though: do I make her conscious too and do I make her feel what she makes me feel..? Why can’t I read her deeply?

I like her. I am literally going gay for her.

And I guess, there’s nothing I could do but to accept it.

Oh, Jessica, what are you doing to me?

I blushed while lying on my bed. Then, my stomach growled.

I just remembered I haven’t eaten yet. Dang~

08 First Friend

Krrrriiiinnnggggggggg~

“Class dismiss.”

At last, our English class had finished!! I wanna go home but we still have to do some tallying of attendance, what lazy adviser we have! But I would be with Jessica... so it’s not much of a big deal..

I smiled by myself. I’m used to this ever since I realized I like her. Well, sort of but I haven’t told Tae about it because I am shy(?). Tee-hee. And I don’t know what her reaction might be.. but am I gay? GAY!?! I DON’T KNOW. I think I’m having identity crisis. I’m afraid the way I like Jessica is not the way Tae likes Sooyoung...

I sighed deeply. I tried to focus my mind on other things.

ARGGGHHHHHH! I just remembered that tomorrow would be Friday but I need to do super review with Taeyeon. How I wish our exams next week would be always English but err impossible!! Impossible! I tapped my desk hard and Jessica looked at me. We smiled at each other though that was just so random. That great feeling I feel every time our eyes met... and every time she would answer back my smile. Priceless.Speaking of Taeyeon...

I looked around and she’s nowhere to be found. What the heck..?! It has been three days since we went to school together!! She owes me a lot now. Bfff.

“BOO!!” I thought I would have a heart attack and I could hear Jessica giggled secretly beside me. I twitched my eyebrows and looked back.

“Tae!!! You would do me heart attack!!!” I yelled at her, irritatingly.

“Sorry Fany~ah.” She laughed.

“Not funny at all.” I crossed my arms after standing and putting my bag onto my desk.

“Of course, it’s not funny ‘cause it’s FANY.” She smirked at me.

“Huh? Really?” I tried to taunt her.

“Anyway, Jessica and me would still need to tally the attendances so I guess..” I tried to think of the appropriate word.

“..we won’t be going home together again..” I sounded down.

“Oh my besttttt frienddd misses meeee~” Taeyeon flung her arms and hug me. I hugged her back and I suddenly saw Jessica going out of the room. Where is she going?

“Rest room.” She looked at me as if she had read my question in my mind. I smiled at her and followed her with my eyes as she disappeared from the door.

“How’s that celebration going?” I asked her as soon as we parted.

“Going well! And oh! You would be surprised~” Taeyeon eyed the class room’s door and I looked at it too. Taeyeon winked at me and looked back at the door. Suddenly a tall figure came running towards the door.

“Did I make you wait?” I stood there astounded as I eyed Taeyeon then back at this giant girl. How did this--- Taeyeon just shook her head and put her bag on her shoulder.

“Fany~ah, this is Choi Sooyoung. Sooyoung, this is Hwang Tiffany, my best friend.” I looked at this short-haired girl. So this is Sooyoung. She emitted a lot of appeal when she smiled at me. It’s as if I was drawn into her. Maybe this is how she gets all those fangirls. And suddenly, I felt dizzy.

“Hello there, Tiffany. Nice meeting ya~ I am Choi Sooyoung~” She smiled at me with all her charm and I waved at her. I felt uncomfortable seeing her wearing uniforms though. It felt that it would be nicer if she wear jerseys.

“Uhm, if it’s all right to ask. Err, why are you here? I mean why does.. err looks like...” I asked her. I don’t think I made my statement weird right?

“Oh, Fany, I haven’t told you yet?” Taeyeon looked at Sooyoung who smiled at her encouragingly.

“WHAT?!” I sounded shocked. Are these two already going out?! Why so fast?! So Tae is also gay?!?! WHAT THE....!? So we’re both gay???!!!!!! So she..? I..? Gayness?!

I watched as Taeyeon got something from her bag.

“Here.” She handed me what looked like a raffle ticket and I narrowed my eyes. Something’s fishy.

Taeyeon frowned at me and she kept the raffle ticket(?) back inside her bag.

“Fany, as you can see, Sooyoung is with me. Going home with me.” WHAT?!! She’s taking Sooyoung home? WTH?! I haven’t even got to sleep over Tae’s house and this Sooyoung would be??? What’s happening?!

“Goodness, Fany.” Taeyeon eyed me horribly and I heard Sooyoung laughed.

“Your best friend won a raffle ticket. My fans club’s tradition is to do raffle promos every month. And there would always be that one rare prize, which is the first prize. First prize equates to being with me but with a task with it. And Kim got it. And that prize was to feed me, make me happy.”

“...And that prize was to feed me, make me happy..”

That sounded a little bit off. Or I guess I was just thinking of something—STOP FANY! When did you start to have a green mind?!

“Oh.” Was all my mouth could speak of. Those Fans Club’s activities are certainly peculiar.

“..so that’s why I am bringing Sooyoung~unni.. to my house.. to make her taste my cooking..” Taeyon blushed and Sooyung tapped her on the back.

Oh so that what she meant, cook = eat = feed Sooyoung. Not feed me = make me happy. Oh gosh, what am I thinking... I am still in first year, but my mind is so polluted already. No~

“I see. Errr, way to go Tae, congrats!!” I sounded a little bit unsure of what to say.

Taeyeon grinned at me and put her hand on Sooyoung’s arm. How aggressive!

“Let’s go?” Taeyeon looked at Sooyoung like I wasn’t there. What the heck!

“Ya.” Sooyoung smiled and they walked towards the door.

“Bye~ Fany~ be productive today.” Taeyeon winked at me. Again? Why does she keep on telling me things I can’t decode?? I don’t really know, most of the time, what she really meant. Productive? How could I be productive with tallying attendances? I groaned.

“Nice meeting ya Hwang.” Sooyoung smiled at me and I could feel again that aura she would emit. What a charm!! I felt like all her pheromones are getting into me.

I smiled and waved at them. Once they have disappeared, my eyes wandered around the room. Jessica is still not here?! Did she have a stomach ache or something?! We still need to tally one month of attendance for heaven’s sake. Didddiiidiiit. I need to find her and see what she’s up to. Stomach ache?!

I exited the door and walked my way towards the corridor. I wandered my eyes everywhere, thinking I would find Jessica somewhere. Then I made up my mind to go to the rest room since she said she would be there.

“At last, you’re alone.” I was looking at the right side of the corridor that I didn’t notice her. I suddenly froze from where I stood. And that same old expression when she was on the bush, that tone from her voice was just so scary. She walked slowly and blocked my way.

“Come here, I need to talk to you about something.” Her eyes narrowed at me. She was scanning my whole body with her eyes, making me conscious with how I walked towards her. Why did I ever follow her command?!

“About w-what?” I suddenly uttered.

“About this.” She suddenly got something that looked like a letter from her pocket.

“W-What’s that?”

“STOP ACTING LIKE YOU DON’T KNOW ANYTHING!!!” She suddenly yelled at me and I took a step back. I don’t really know anything about it!!

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I tried to get away with my trembling body.

She opened the paper which was folded into two with all her force and placed it in front of my face. My eyes widened, when did I—

“Why are you doing this?!” she asked me.

“Yuri, I really don’t know anything about that... and—“

“Stop acting!!! Damn it Hwang, I JUST WANT THE TRUTH!! THE TRUTH!!! You’re name is written here!!! Look!!” she pointed at the bottom part of the letter and my name was really written there. WHAT THE!!? I DON’T REALLY KNOW HOW THE HELL AND WHO THE HELL WROTE MY NAME!! THAT’S NOT EVEN MY HANDWRITING!!!!

“Why did you write to Sooyoung?! This is against the rules of her fans club!! And you didn’t even join!! Tell me why!!! And just stop it!!!! We Sooyoungsters could punish you, beware with your actions!!!! Sooyoung~unni is for us to share!! NOT TO BE GREEDY WITH!!!” She sounded so angry.

Huh?! I don’t even like her and I just met her moments ago!!

“But it’s not really m—“

“DAMN IT, JUST TELL THE TRUTH!!” She shook the paper closer to my face. She raised her hand and was on the act of slapping me. I froze. I was being bullied right? But I can’t handle it. This, I don’t know what to do. My mind’s on a blank.

“Could you kindly please stop?” That cool and calm voice... Jessica came from nowhere and pulled the paper out of Yuri’s hands, removing her other hand that was already close to my cheek. Yuri took a step back and was surprise with Jessica’s sudden appearance. My mouth was left slightly opened and Jessica smiled at me. She then looked back at Yuri. Her soft features when she smiled at me had gone, I see fierce in her eyes.

“She already told you that she’s not the one who wrote that.” Jessica’s words were hard.

“If it's not her then wh---“

“Look.” Jessica suddenly placed a notebook in front of Yuri’s face. That’s my notebook. How the hell did Jessica get that?!

“This is her handwriting, not that one on the letter.” Jessica placed the notebook down and Yuri’s eyes widened. I could see the blood forming on her cheeks. Jessica put her to shame.

“I told you to stop this already, right? I guess you might as well do some research and have stronger proofs in case you wanted to pin point on a person. You only got that letter I reckon and didn’t even bother to think twice on blaming Tiffany. And Tiffany and I had always been together every dismissal, there’s no way she could sneak out and put that on Choi’s locker. Should I repeat this again huh, Kwon Yuri? You’re barking at the wrong tree. At least, try to be logical.” Jessica crossed her arms.

So Jessica knew this all along.....?? How....? And who put the letter on the locker?!

“But—“

“How could she ever like Sooyoung in the first place..? Tiffany likes someone else.” I flinched by what Jessica said, what she’s telling was true.. could it be that ---

“This conversation is going nowhere. Let’s go, Tiffany.” Jessica eyed Yuri. The former grabbed my hand and we walked away. I looked behind and saw Yuri who was left frozen on her place.

We were both quiet as soon as we reach the end of the corridor. The girl who just saved me, looked at me.

“Thanks..” I uttered while my eyes started to meet hers. The feeling was ecstatic, anticipating and confusing.

“You’re welcome.” She answered back. We haven’t moved an inch and I looked down onto the ground. Her eyes were piercing mine and it was unbearable. And the heat started to flow though my cheeks again.

“How d-did you know... I was... t-there..?”

“Because I just did.” She shrugged and I realized she was still holding my hand. And I looked at her skeptically. She sighed.

“I really went to the rest room and well, when I heard you were talking with Kim and the basketball player, I just stayed outside to wait for you. I was going to enter the room when I saw you walked to the corridor and I followed you.. then I saw Yuri confronting you.” Jessica said.

“But it seemed like... you already know.. that Yuri...”

Jessica looked at our hands which were intertwined with each other. I tried to pull away but she tightened her grip.

“I caught her stalking you and I confronted her. But she was just so stubborn, she want to confront you.” She said in her usual calm voice.

“D-Do... do you know who put it in Sooyoung’s locker...?”

“I don’t know.. and that’s what I’m trying to find out...”

“We should find.” I corrected her.

“My notebook..?” I continued.

“Oh, you left it on your desk..”

“ H-How did you know... you would need it a-and.... How did you catch her stalki—“

“Because I had been always watching you..” She smiled softly.

So, she’s also a stalker too...?! OH.EM.GEE. Am I dreaming or what? I feel like I am in a movie, am I hearing everything right???

I tried to speak but my tongue was entangled. I don’t know what to do but to stare at her.

“I have been always watching you... ever since we were... little. Ever since I’ve known you....” She confessed.

I can’t talk.

“Am I creeping you out?” She suddenly said and she moved forward, I took a step back. But she reluctantly pulled me closer that I thought I would bump her.

My brain wasn’t working. All was blank.

I just stared at her, trying to find the words in her eyes but they seemed to be so transparent that I could have never known how deep I could fall.

“Will you avoid me now, Tiffany?” Jessica looked at me with those new pair of eyes. My heart skipped a beat... her eyes... how can they look kinder and sweeter, tamer..?

I shook my head while I stared at our hands, holding each other. How long had it been? Fifty seconds? Two minutes? Ten minutes? I can’t count, I just know we’re holding each other.. our palms resurfacing the heat and that touch I know I would always give in, was there.

I could and would never avoid you... I. Just. Can’t.

“Thank you, Fany.” I looked at her and she smiled at me.

The first time she called me with my nickname. How could she do this to me? I unconsciously placed my other hand on my chest. I was trying to feel my heart... but my pulse was lost, its pattern was also irregular.

“May I call you that? Not unless you—“

“I-It’s all right.. r-really...” I looked down and felt my cheeks tinged in pink. Oh gosh, am I too obvious now...?

“I.. I.. well.. I felt happy when I called you that: Fany..” She smiled at me again and I couldn’t control myself to look at her. How come my nickname sounded different when she said it? It sounded beautiful, indescribable... Why?

“J-Jessica.. thank you.. too..” I smiled at her. Although I was shocked by the circumstances and her confession, I felt really her sincerity, moreover, I felt happy. It’s as if, I was so stupid to just notice her now.. and she was there all along...

“Stupid.”

I could hear her voice again and I smiled at myself.

“Fany.. I am so happy that.. I’ve got to know you, got close to you and I couldn’t thank you enough..” She tried to control her trembling lips.

“But I.. I haven’t done anything--” I glanced at her lips then to her eyes.

“Being here with me is enough, choosing not to avoid me is enough... and mostly.. being my friend is enough...” She picked her words clearly and sweetly.

“You’re my very first friend...” She looked down at the pavement and looked at me, she smiled.

I shook my head, telling her that those are not big deals. I didn’t even expect this. It’s as if Jessica was opening her heart, voluntarily. And she opened it up for me, only for me. And it was her choice. Our eyes locked at each other and we were both smiling. Then, still holding my hand, Jessica turned her back and we started to walk back to the room.

Silence had fallen once again.

What do I feel...?

I was feeling the beat of my heart, echoing with every step we take together.

I like her more...

I am liking her more with each passing second of my high school life.

09 First Secret

“Tutor me please~” I tried to be as cute as possible as Taeyeon and me walked home from school.

“Please~ Please~ Best friend~” I continued to make my voice as little and as cute as I could. This is my goal today, to make Taeyeon fall into my mission entitled: ‘Taeyeon: My Master Tutor For the Exams’.

“I have to review too Fany.” She whined.

“But—but—you’re happy aren’t you? Sooyoung and you had a ‘date’ yesterday~” I poked her on her cheek and I could already see that her cheeks were being coloured with pink. Taeyeon need not to put blush-on now.

“W-We didn’t have a date. I-It’s just plain dinner.” She sounded so timid.

“Hmm, really?” I teased her further.

“And Sooyoung~unni is just so cool while she eats my cooking~” Her voice suddenly got energetic.

“Did you know Fany that she was like a soldier who never got to eat a decent food for years? She ate my cooking like it was her first time eating something delicious~ And, and she said she liked my cooking so much~” She suddenly clapped her hands while staring at the sky. Her smile reaching her eyes already and I could see that heaven-like expression on her face again. OMYGOD Tae, you have been telling this story to me for about 94820482194812 times already!!!

“That’s just so greattt Taeyeon!! And now, because you’re really, really, really happy~ you and I would~ ta-da~” I opened my arms wide in front of her.

“..We would study hard for the exams~” I exclaimed.

“We?” she asked me skeptically and I nodded at her reassuringly.

“What do you mean by ‘we’? Isn’t that supposed to be, ‘Jessi and me’?” She emphasized on the words ‘Jessi and me’ which made me turned my back to her like a robot. Taeyeon then walked in front of me and smirked.

“I guess you owe me something, huh?” How did my ‘Taeyeon: My Master Tutor For the Exams’ mission turned into ‘INTERROGATION BY TAEYEON 101’? Oh man! How could she turn things around in favour of her? This dwarffffffyyyyyyyyyy is just so, so, so, SOOOOOOO~!

“I owe you nothing, do I?” I looked at her innocently. I walked again, making myself go first and every now and then I could feel her eyes resting on me. Gosh, scary! I need to accomplish my mission!! GO FANY! GO FANY!! GO, GO, GO FANY!

I cheered myself in my mind.

Then suddenly, I know my plan would go smoothly. Heeeheeeeeheeeeeehh.

“Oh!” I clapped my hands and looked at Taeyeon.

“I now know what I owe you!!” I placed my hands on her shoulders and her eyes stared at me, doubt was stirring on her pupils.

“About Jessica and me..” I willing myself to blush so Taeyeon can see it. I also said the words ‘Jessica and me’ sweetly and slowly to grab her attention. She just stared at me and I frowned.

“Never mind then.” I waved my hand irritatingly.

“Wait!! Fany!!! What is it?? WHAT IS IT? Between you and Jessica?” she came running to my side and locked her arms with mine. Now, this is what I call gossip girl Taeyeon huh. I smirked. This is going according to what I want and what I plan. Heeh.

“Never mind. You don’t want to listen, right?” I raised my eyebrows and turned my back to her.

“That’s unfair!! I told you everything that happened yesterday and you haven’t told me a thing since the day you ditched classes with Jung!!!” She walked faster and shook my shoulders.

“UNFAIR!! Tell it to me, tell it to me!!” she continued. Ooh, begging Taeyeon . I like! Heeeeeehhhhh.

“Okay.” I said.

“What now? Fany!!?” she asked me when I didn’t continue talking.

“Do you really want to know?” I asked her while controlling my smirk.

She nodded like a dog asking for treats. I like!

“Do you really want to know it Tae~ah?” She nodded again. Nice!

“May I ask a favour then?” I looked at her with my best soft-sided expression. She looked at me and narrowed her eyes, as if she was making up her mind then she looked at me again.

“Okay.” She answered. Gotcha!

“Let’s review together!!!” I exclaimed and her expression didn’t change.

“WHATTTTTTTTTT?!” she suddenly said after digesting what I’ve said.

“You already said ‘okay’.” I wiggled my body like she did when she said she like Sooyoung. And I like the feeling. She then sighed.

“Okay, okay! BUT FOCUS FANY OKAY? And remember to tell me what happened or else!!!” She threatened me. I like it! MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!! I AM SO JJANG~!!!!

“Sleepover, you want?” I offered to her while we go inside the house.

“But I didn’t bring any clothes!” Taeyeon said hysterically as we placed our shoes on the rack.

“Then I’ll lend you!” I said to her like she wasn’t thinking of a perfect solution for the problem.

“But! You’re way too tall!! It wouldn’t fit me!” She now admitted that she’s really a shorty. And I stared at her from head to foot, I could just buy her baby clothes?? I controlled my laughter.

“It would be all right!! Your house is not that far!” I said to her.

“Then I could just get clothes from our house then?” She offered but mother suddenly popped out in front of us and waved.

“Mum, as you can see Taeyeon is here. We would be studying for the exams.” I kissed my mother on the cheek.

“Oh Taeyeon! Feel at home as always.” She said and Taeyeon smiled back and nodded.

“Thank you for always taking care of Tiff.” My mother continued as she walked to the kitchen, the two of us tailing her.

“You guys should eat dinner now, I just finished cooking.” She offered as she got plates from the platter.

“Thank you auntie.” Taeyeon said while she too popped out in front of me and was already helping my mother to arrange the table.

“Oh, by the way mum, is it all right for Tae to sleep over here?” I asked my mother who was now sitting in front of us.

“Of course!.” she said happily.

“By the way Taeyeon, is Tiff giving you a hard time at school?” she winked at Taeyeon who was sitting beside me and I groaned.

“Tiff!” She silenced me and smiled encouragingly to Taeyeon, as if I could bribe her by making her eat dinner in our house.

“Well, Fany is..” Taeyeon glanced at me. I gave her a ‘watch-your-words-shorty’ look.

“Fany is not giving me a hard time. She is great at school and... and she is also our class representative.. in case you don’t know auntie.” Taeyeon sounded cheerful. Wow, what a praise! It felt like Taeyeon wasn’t the one speaking.

“Oh Tiff! Why haven’t you told me that, dear?” My mother was now looking at me with surprised eyes like it was the only thing I’ve done great in school. DUH!

“Well, I’m busy and I’m still coping with it.” I smiled shyly and I elbowed Taeyeon. She pretended not to feel it though. Hmff.

After we had eaten dinner we went straight into my room. And I first lead Taeyeon inside.

“WHATTTAAA PINK-ROOM!!” She yelled in surprised.

“I know your favourite colour is pink but isn’t your room over exaggerated with its look?” She continued as she placed her bag onto my study table.

“All I see is pink! Aren’t you having a hard time?!!!” She continued to complain.

“Aren’t we going to study Taeyeon?” I frowned at her. How could she scrutinize my very very pinky-pretty room? DUH, she doesn’t understand the way ‘pink’ could replace ‘think’. PINK POSITIVE BABY.

*Uhh, okay reader, that’s a not-so funny joke. But please do laugh, for the sake of my dignity. Loljk.*

“Here, have a seat Tutor.” I grinned at her and she sighed.

“Bring out your Algebra notes and your book.” She commanded me and I just smiled at her.

“You don’t have a book?!” She continued when she saw me not moving an inch.

“W-Well, this..” I slowly brought out my ‘Mathematics for Dummies’ book which I haven’t returned to the library yet. And I remembered Jessica telling that this book is for elementary students. Err.

Taeyeon narrowed her eyes at the book and she slowly flipped into the pages.

“FANY!? WHAT IS THIS?!!!” She pointed at the illustration of ‘one triangle plus one triangle equals two triangles’. All I could do was to smile awkwardly. I haven’t even browsed the book so I didn’t even confirm myself that it’s really for elementary students.

“T-That Taeyeon is a.. book.” I grinned and she placed the book away from us.

“Haven’t you brought the work-text book?” She asked.

“Err, I forgot that..” I smiled again at her.

“Goodness.” She opened her bag, got a thick book inside it and placed it in front of me.

“Here. Turn to page forty-five.” Wow, Tutor Tae is just scary. T________T

“Answer the exercises there and let me see what you understand.” She crossed her arms as I stared at her. Finally, after a while, I got my pen and started to answer each questions about ‘Factoring’. Oh, man! I could feel cold sweat dripping on my neck, down to my stomach. I looked at Taeyeon again and she just nodded at me. WHAT CRUEL TUTOR!!! >,<

“After that, we would be both re-answering the questions on our quizzes while you tell me your story.” I saw her smirk while she got a magazine inside her bag. The title, ‘THE SY FANCLUB JOURNAL’, was in big-bold letters, and I could see Sooyoung’s face with a V-signed hand plus her smile oozing with that charm again. She was wearing a red jersey. I could then remember again her pheromones acting up on me. What a charm, really.

“Here, finished...” I put the paper in front of her. She looked at my answers one by one and with a pen she started to check it. CRUEEELLLLL.

“So, err Tae, your club also have a magazine... err...” I uttered while she seriously checked my answers.

“Yea, yea.” She said.

“Fany, you’re not bad at all.” She gave me back the paper and I only got two mistakes. WHAT THE?! AM I REALLY THIS GOOD?!! All I did was my all-time favourite, ‘trial and error’ technique. Wow! Heeh, I guess I’m just this good, yeah.

*Sorry readers, this is airhead-Fany again. Just don’t let yourself be taken away, I know it, I dazzle you guys.* //sticks my tongue out in front of your monitor//

“I thought you’re too desperate for Algebra, but not at all.” Taeyeon was observing me with eyes like I was only pretending to know nothing.

“So, now..” She cleared her throat.

“Yah, I know.” I dropped my hands over the table.

“Let’s start.” She put out two pieces of papers and a questionnaire. Damn, should we really re-answer this? I feel lazyyyy~

“Yeah?” I sounded unsure.

“Yeah?” She tried to copy my ‘yeah?’.

“What?” I stared at her.

“Tell it to me. Yeah?” She emphasized on the word, ‘yeah?’ and it really sounded annoying!!

“Where would I start then?” I have been defeated.

“Yesterday.” She crossed her arms. What a dominant being! That look on her face!!

“Well... I had been... kind of.. bullied...” I confessed.

“WHAT?! By Jessica?! Let’s revenge then!!” Taeyeon stood up and balled her hands into a fist. Her expression was serious.

“What did she do? I thought you two go along with each other, then now.. that weirdo girl!!” She stomped her feet and I shook my head to disagree with her.

“Yuri!” I yelled.

“What???” She raised a brow at me and took her seat again.

“Yuri kind of bullied me.” I confessed.

“Yuri-sshi? Are you sure?! She’s the best SY Mod you could ever get!!! And the ultimate and ultimate and ULTIMMMMAATTTEE fan you could evahhh get!” She circled her head with every ‘ultimate’ word and I swear she looked like nuts, forming a hoolahoop by her head.

“Well, your Idol-SY fan Yuri thought I was writing letters to Choi via her locker.” I crossed my arms.

“WHATTT?!” Her eyes widened with disbelief.

“Yeah, you heard me right. She confronted me yesterday and let me see a letter that she insisted I wrote to Choi, when I really hadn’t. What got me really petrified was the fact that someone was using my name.” I continued.

“And Yuri really has access to Choi’s locker?” I raised a brow while I stared at the questionnaire laid out on the table.

“We should find out who’s behind that then.” Her face looked determined.

“Not only because it concerns you but the club as well.” She continued.

“And yes, Yuri has the access on Sooyung~unni’s locker. Yuri is like Sooyoung’s official water girl or whatever you call her. She brings stuff inside her locker and the like. And our rule is to never ever selfishly treat Sooyoung~unni as yours. Sooyoung~unni must be shared for everyone. I wonder why use your name, it’s confusing. What happened after? Did she believe that it wasn’t you?”

“I don’t think she really believed me..” I thought of my words deeply.

“Then how come you got out of the situation?” Her eyes narrowed at me.

“Jessica helped me.”

“Jessica??” She retorted.

“Yes..”

I revealed to Taeyeon everything, even told her about Jessica being sick and both of us, sleeping on the roof top. I told her Jessica admitted, she has been watching over me ever since she met me and that I am her very first friend. And every once in a while, I could see Tae smirking, though her smirk was pertaining to something, I didn’t even dare to ask her. Not that I don’t want, or maybe she was just teasing me. Just whatever. Then, I came to the realization that I just have to admit it, not only to myself but to her too.

“Tae~ah, am I still your best friend if I tell you something that I think you would feel disgusted for??” I suddenly asked her out of the blue.

“Huh? Well, that depends??” She placed her pen on her chin.

“Taeyeon, I think I like her.” I told her without second thoughts.

“Her? You meant Jessica.” She smiled at me. Did she already know? Was this something she really expected? -___-

“Well.. y-yes..” I admitted while looking at the notes on the table.

“You don’t have to tell me, it’s obvious from the start.” She grinned widely and I just widened my eyes. Am I really that transparent?! Gosh

“And you know what Fany, don’t get your hopes up but I think..” She leaned forward and whispered something to me, I could suddenly feel chills all over my body.

“...Jessica likes you too..” She said over my ear while smiling and I involuntarily fell backward on my seat.

“Do you think I am gay?” I asked her straight forwardly.

“Yes.” She answered me straight forwardly too. DAMN SHORTY, not even taking our conversation slowly!

“And I would be gay too. Sooner or later.” She confessed and I pouted.

“Is this wrong?” I suddenly became worried.

“I don’t know. Maybe yes, maybe not. But is it really wrong to follow your heart? I mean, the heart speaks of something that I think is intentionally good. It’s not like you’re killing or murdering someone when you fall in love with the same sex, right?” She assured me.

“But I’m not in love!” I said defensively.

“But, you’ll be. Sooner or later.” She crossed her arms.

“You too, you would be! I swear and you’ll definitely feel what I feel!” I tried to revenge.

“I’m already in love.” She smirked.

“What? You’re literally obsessed with Choi, not in love!!” My eyes widened and she just laughed to answer me. Is she serious or what!? She can’t be in love with her, like she said, Sooyoung is for sharing!!

“Tae~ah. Unfair.” I frowned at her.

“Anyway Fany, think of things. And the way she told you that she has been always watching you? Can’t you remember any childhood memories?” She grinned again. HUH?!!! CHILDHOOD MEMOS??! Now she was diverting this conversion, centred on Jessica and me.

“W-Whut?” What?! Jessica and me had memories together?!

“Well, technically Fany, Jessica supposed to be a nice girl though she is now the oyster girl. When we were little, every time you can’t climb up the slide, she would be always there to help you. You know, I’m short too and you’re way too chubby that it would be hard for me to carry you up, but she always did. Don’t you remember..???” I shook my head slow. Is Taeyeon telling the truth?

“I thought, Jessica would always be like that, but not. When we reached middle school, she started building a wall between herself and other people. I also thought she would be our friend for I felt that we three are growing to be closer.. but not. She suddenly got quiet than usual and cold. She suddenly distanced herself from us too and she didn’t even tell us why, that made me kind of hate her. So, I purposely compete with her until now, because if I would be dominant over her, I thought I would know the reason why. But I cannot defeat her!!!!!!!!” She admitted hysterically.

“And as usual, you Tiffany Hwang haven’t even noticed that at all. For all you did when we were little was to be a dense animal. Technically, until now, you are. The worst dense animal everrrr.” She giggled.

“Well, it’s still fresh in my mind that she used to talk! And I thought that was part of her growing up and I just got used to it, I meant about her, to be that quiet. I got used to that, silence equates to Jessica.” I said defensively.

“Well, I’m kind of happy that she’s being her again with you.” She blinked her eyes many times.

“T-that..”

“She’s very fond of you Fany.” Taeyeon placed her hand over mine, squeezing it like I should wake up and realized something.

“And when we were little, Jessica and me has a secret.” She smirked for the nth time. SECRET?! Huh?!

“I don’t know though if Jung still remembers that. But I think there’s no way she could ever forget that.” Her lips forming a smirk again, curling upwards.

“Tell it to me then!” I begged her.

“No.” She sat like a boss in front of me.

“What are friends are for?” I pouted again.

“Fany, you really like her, right? Just admit that.”

“Okay! I admit it! I like Jessica. You happy now?” I said irritatingly but it felt good though.

“If I tell you about it, there would be no sense into sticking around this long. You know what I mean. If I would be telling you this, I could have been told you from the start that you like her. But I didn’t, I want you to know it yourself.”

“It’s for you to find out, Fany.” She smirked again at me. DAMN IT, I wanna draw some moustache on those lips of hers!!!

What’s the secret????

Will Jessica tell me about it?!

I sighed and I gave up. We just continued to study. Jessica, why are you constantly in my mind? >,<

I hope.

10 First Day of Exams

Say what?! Today is Monday!! I hate Mondays. Yayayayayayaya! And certainly not only because it’s the start of a new school week (again) but today is the first day of exams! I hope everything Taeyeon taught me will be useful or else, I would be using my stock knowledge, which in fact I always use!!!! Ugh, Even though I admit to myself and to you readers that I was listening to her, half-heartedly because, BECAUSE the SECRET is bugging me for goddamn forty-two hours now!! You read that right!!!! That SHORTY!!!! If only I could black mail her but I can’t think of anything!! Pffffffffff. Taeyeon cleans out so well, unlike me, I can’t even----

I put my hand on my chin and stopped my thoughts from getting over me. Algebra is our first exam then next would be Arts. Dammmnn, why should we really have exams for Arts?!If I pass these two exams, I would really, really, really treat myself a biggg fluffffyyyy pink cotton candyyyy! Yay!!

Just thinking about it made me dreamy when Yuri caught my eye. I felt sweat dripping down my face.

Help, just where the hell is Taeyeon? I need back-up! T,T

Then, slowly I noticed she was looking at me while walking.. I don’t know where she’s going though.. But she’s walking. I see her figure getting bigger as she walked.

WTF TIFFANY!!! SHE’S WALKING TOWARDS YOU!!

Whaaaa~ Why is she walking towards my seat?! Maybe she is cross-eyed?! Or maybe my vision is not 20/20 anymore that’s why I thought she’s walking towards me?!

I then put my head on the desk and closed my eyes.

I’m just dreaming! 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1005!!

I counted five seconds and raised my head up then..

“WHAAA~” I yelled when I saw Yuri’s face inches apart from mine. My back suddenly crashed my seat and my mouth opened slightly. I looked around and my classmates were having this kind of faces again: =___=” They were like, “What is Hwang doing again?!”

And Taeyeon is nowhere to be found, then I looked to my left, Jessica is not here too!!! I looked back at Yuri then she.. then she...

“HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! What errr ya doing, Hwangg!!”

She laughed.

WTF?! Why did she laugh? Doesn’t she remember what happened two days ago?! Huh?! Is she nuts??? Omo, did she believe me then?!!

I frowned at her.

“Silly.” She uttered and frowned back at me.

“I am not really the one who put the let----“

“Enough. I believe you, don’t worry. I get Jung’s explanation now. I even asked Sooyoung~baby about it and she said, it couldn’t be right that you would give her a letter, because she felt like you dun like her.” She finished.

SOOYOUNG~BABY?! WHAT THE..!

“Huh? It’s not like I don’t like her. It’s just that, errr I’m not err her fan.” I said defensively. She smiled at me and tapped me on the shoulder.

“I am sorry Tiffany for judging you and blaming you for the something you haven’t done.” She bowed.

“I-It’s not a big deal really, Yuri.” I smiled at her awkwardly and I noticed Taeyeon making an ‘okay’ sign at the back of Yuri. She just popped out of nowhere, I guess she’s not really noticeable because of her petite figure. And suddenly, I know Taeyeon have something to do with this!! Damn micro-organism creature! What did she tell Yuri?!

Yuri placed her hand before me after wiping it on her uniform.

“So, friends?” She smiled at me.

Friends....? What...?

I slowly and carefully placed my hand near hers. She quickly gripped my hand and shook it. Then she smiled.

“Thank you! Thank you!!” She said giddily.

“By the way,Tiffany, would you like to join Sooyoung’s Fans Club?” She suddenly offered.

“Err, no.” I didn’t even think twice. I’m not really a fan and I don’t want to be obsessed with her too. Just looking at Taeyeon, makes me see that club as it was some kind of religion or a cult. Based on experience right? I don’t want to be like Yuri or Taeyeon. Eeek, I’m contented with Jessica.

WHAT?! Jessica~

I felt the need to glance around and Jessica was already placing her bag on her desk, she pushed her hair backwards. So pretty~ that blonde hair! I sighed and when she looked at me, I looked away. The heat I always feel felt much stronger this time, intense.

“Think more about it then, Tiffany! Please do consider it! Just get an application form from me, okay?” Yuri said cheerfully and looked at the sudden entrance of our teacher. I stiffened, exams are here!

The one sitting in front of me, named uh Sun-something(?) if I’m not mistaken, passed the examination sheet to me. This was the first time I saw her face closely, she seemed friendly because she smiled. Nice, I’m getting aware of the people surrounding me. Anyway when I got the paper, I felt the urge to look at Jessica again. What’s Jessica and Taeyeon’s secret?? I looked at her intently then she looked at me. Cold.

I looked away then I heard her say something.

“Good luck, Fany.” She said and I could see in my peripheral vision that she was smiling at me. Although, I didn’t look at her, I said ‘good luck’ back, awkwardly.

What is this?! I’m being more conscious. This is bad! I shan’t!

I put out my pen. No, not this pink pen, my other pen. I only use the pink pen for emergencies because I want the ink to last forever, although that’s not possible. Taeyeon gave this to me and it felt like our friendship is in this pen.

I got the other pen in my pencil case and started reading the questions, oh equations.

“That test, would only be taken for one hour. Time starts now.” The teacher suddenly wrote how many minutes left for us to take the exam, 53 minutes..

I started answering each equation. Wow, not really hard, I meant they’re bearable. It’s exactly like the ones in the quizzes. I suddenly felt happy that Tae and I re-answered the quizzes. After about 35 minutes or so, I re-checked my answers and started counting. I know I’ll pass!

Overconfidence. :3 <-the current look on my face.

I stretched up my hand and made an awkward sound, making the teacher looked at me weirdly.

“You can pass your papers, if you’re already through.” The teacher said while looking at me.

Don’t want!

I started to pretend to write something on the test paper. I don’t want to be the first one to finish or pass my paper! I looked around and saw everyone was still writing. What the...? I then glanced at Jessica again and she was....

Sleeping!

Her head was resting on the desk while her right hand was still holding her pen. Her eyes closed intently and her mouth was opened slightly, seductive.

Waaa~ what are you thinking Tiffany!?

I slapped my self. (Literally)

Did she finish the exams already or did she fall asleep suddenly? But, well, she’s just so cute while sleeping. Then she opened her eyes, she was staring with no other but me. Fierce eyes.

I looked away and started to pretend to write again.

“Fany?” She uttered softly.

“Hmm?” I answered her while my eyes were still on the paper.

Why can’t I even decently look at her now? I don’t understand. I suddenly feel so shy! And my heartbeat is difficult to comprehend.

“Let’s pass our papers?” I could feel that she stretched her arms, slightly.

“O-Okay..”

She stood up and stopped in front of me, waiting for me to stand up too. I then stood up, fixed my eyes on the pavement.

I can’t even look straight into her eyes now. What?!

We then passed our papers and both of us, were given the test papers for Arts. We sat back on our seats. Oh help me, the only person I remembered was Picasso. Damn names. I stared at the paper, and what is this?! Who are these: Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse, Marie Vorobieff, Louis Marcoussis, Jeanne Rij-Rousseau (...)?! Plus, match their names with their works: Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, Nude Descending a Staircase, No. 2(..) . >,<

Hopeless.

I then looked at Part B of the exam. I sighed. This is the only thing that I could answer. I started dribbling what is asked.

What I had memorized is just so so so, I HATE IT!! So many names of painters! And hell, their names were Italian or alien-like that it’s harder for me to memorize them! I’m not really good at names. God, help me.

Test B.

Draw the following:

1. Concave

2. Convex

3. Circle

4. Spiral

5. Horizontal Line

6. Vertical Line

7. Zig Zag

8. Dot <- HAHA, at last I would get a correct answer.

After answering Test B, I looked at Test A again, there’s nothing I could do but to guess. I’m a good guesser, I know it. Heeh. I started using my instincts and just wrote the letter I felt would match the name of the painter. Afterwards, many of my classmates had been passing their test papers already, so I passed mine too. Jessica was tailing me and it made me feel uncomfortable in some way. What is the secret?

I then wandered my eyes around the room and I can’t believe Taeyeon was still answering the exams. Maybe she wanted to perfect it. But it felt though that Jessica doesn’t really care about competing. Heeh.

I got my bag on my desk and exited the room. I stood outside the room to wait for Taeyeon. And Jessica was standing beside me. Oh my gosh, is she waiting for me or what?! Is this the right time to ask her about the secret then?

I switched my neck to her and it felt robotic. I am robotically moving my body. She glanced at me and I looked away for the 283421084th time.

What’s happening with me? I’m not this conscious before?! After what Tae~ told me? I can’t even... Does Jessica like me too?! What if?! What should I do?

LOVERHOLIC. ROBOTRONIC.

I suddenly felt my body trembling. And Jessica held my arm suddenly. I tried to look at her, robotically, but I end up looking away.

“Fany, are you avoiding me?” She suddenly asked.

“I-I-I-Irerde doneoerndrldf.” I was stuttering.

“What?” she asked.

“You said you wouldn’t avoid me.” Her grip on my arm tightened.

“Fany...” Still holding my arm, she walked and stood in front of me.

“Are you avoiding me, Fany?” Her face looked worried.

“N-N-Noerl.” Stuttering robot. My tongue is twisted. What happened?!

“Did you learn a new language? I don’t understand you.” She confessed and her face looked more worried.

“J-Je-Je—“

“Are you laughing?” She asked, her eyes suddenly widened.

“N-nnnnuhnn no.” I tried to calm my self.

“Don’t you like me?” She asked, her eyes fixed on me.

What did she mean? Man, is she urging me to confess or what? My eyes suddenly widened with what she asked and I..

“Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa~”

I ran away while yelling, my hands raised up for frustration.

“Hey wait! Fany!!” I heard her yell and I continued to run.

What am I even thinking? Running away made me more obvious?!

I hid under the staircase, hugging my knees to my chin. Then, I could hear Jessica’s running steps.

“Fany?! Fany, where are you? Come out.” I heard her yell.

“Why so aggressive and why should she be this straight forward?!” I pouted while talking to myself.

“I’m not ready yet...” I buried my face to my knees.

I hope you won’t find me..

“Hey..” I raised my head and there she was, standing in front of me, staring at my face worriedly. I quickly buried my head on my knees again.

How did she find me?!

“You said you wouldn’t avoid me... but you are..” I looked at her while she sat before me. Her arms crossed on her knees.

“...avoiding me...” she continued.

“You could have just told it to me, that you think I am some kind of a disgusting stalker or something... and I would never mind to.. distance myself..”

“...but that would be too hard for me.....” she admitted.

I.Can’t. Speak.

“I.. I..” I tried. But how could I tell her what she has been doing to me? What she has been making me feel?! I am an idiot!!! I’m clueless.. this is the first time I’ve ever felt this way... and I don’t know where this feeling would head on...

Love..?

I suddenly shook my head.

It couldn’t be. Not with her. Admiration, inspiration, or crush, just like that, not love.

“Hey.” She suddenly touched my arm and I reluctantly remove her hand.

She sighed.

“I don’t understand you.” She said to me as she stood up, turning her back from me.

“I’ll give you space then.” She said as she took steps to walk away.

No. NO. NO!

“D-Don’t go!” I said to her. Taking all my effort and strength to just tell her that I am so confused with what I feel.

And I know, my feelings for her are getting stronger. Stronger... and I couldn’t make it stop. I can’t control it..

I too stood up and reached for her uniform’s sleeve, preventing her to walk any further. Jessica looked back at me. Her expression was blank.

“Du du du d-d-do-----n’t g—g-g---go..o.” I repeated while staring at the pavement.

Argh, I hate my self! I don’t understand, why is this happening? .___. I am dumb.

I suddenly wished there would be a “Jessica for Dummies” book so that I could know what she was thinking.

“Are you sick?” She asked and I shook my head in reply.

Ask her the secret!!

“Shi—shii—shii---siii-se—cher-kret?” I suddenly asked her.

“Chiclet? Isn’t that a gum?” She suddenly asked.

“Weirdo.” And I just felt her hand on mine. I didn’t even have the strength to remove it.

What is this?! .____.

“Si.. secret?” I asked her, my eyes tried hard to stare on hers.

“I said ‘sick’ not secret. What’s up with you?” She frowned.

“Tae... y-you.. secret..hhh.”

“What?” she frowned more. Just as I was gathering my thoughts and strength to ask her, Taeyeon with Yuri. Yes, shorty is with Yuri!

What?! Tae and Yuri?! Together?! Anyway, Taeyeon with Yuri came into view.

“Tiffany, what are you two—“ Taeyeon smirked at me then at Jessica whose expression turned into her usual blank face.

“Anyway, we were looking for you. Aren’t we going home?” Taeyeon put her hands on her waist and I saw Yuri nodding her head like a bulldozer.

“We’re going home then.” Wow, my tongue was suddenly got back to normal then I glanced at Jessica.

Oh no, we’re still holding each others' hands!!!!

I can’t even remove my hands from hers. It felt right though. It’s as if our hands fit each other well.

WHY AM I EVEN SPEAKING OF CHEESY LINES?! @____@

“Let’s go.” Taeyeon said.

“You want to go home with us Jessica?” Taeyeon asked her and Jessica nodded.

Waaaaaaa. What would happen now?

We walk together, the four of us as we reached the school gate. Me and Jessica was inevitably quiet while Taeyeon and Yuri kept on talking about the SY Fanclub’s activities. I hate it. I haven’t even got to ask what the secret is, for heaven’s sake!! >,<

“Fany.” Taeyeon suddenly called out to me as the four of us walked home.

“School festival is coming after the examssssss!” She beamed at me.

“So...?” I asked her lifelessly and she widened her eyes at me.

“What the!! You’re the class representative! I meant you and Jessica.” She glanced at Jessica.

“You should make plans now! We should have our own booth you know!!” She grinned.

“After the exams. I totally screwed up with arts..” I answered her.

“I thought you had memorized all the notes I’d given you?” Taeyeon said to me and her eyebrows forming a ‘v’ again.

“Errr.” I smiled awkwardly and Yuri suddenly laughed.

“It’s just memorization! It couldn’t be that hard! And Arts is just so easy~” Now, here comes Taeyeon airhead. Pff.

“But you know I’m not good at it!!” I dropped my hands and Yuri laughed harder. I felt the need to glance at Jessica but she too was controlling her laugh. AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO HAD GUESSED TEST A OF ARTS??!!! >,<

“At least I had answered Test B, I know myself I perfected it.” I said confidently.

“Even an elementary student could perfect that!!” Taeyeon teased me harder.

“Like I care. Hmph.” I said and I suddenly felt Jessica’s shoulders brushed mine.

LOVERHOLIC. ROBOTRONIC.

I stiffened.

“How’s the exam for you Jessica?” Yuri suddenly asked Jessica.

“..especially Arts.” Yuri grinned at me.

“Nothing.” Jessica answered and I controlled myself to giggle.

Jessica would be always Jessica. But she’s more Jessica when she’s with me. Tee-hee.

Yuri frowned at Jessica’s answer. And then, I could feel Jessica’s arms locked with mine.

Why does she felt different today? I mean, she seemed more aggressive. =__= Holding my hand, then now locking arms with me.

And I could feel Taeyeon’s stare at us. Her lips curling up to form her all-time smirk.

I’m falling with everything she does. I can’t even control myself. Thump, thump, thump.

Love..?

No. No!

That afternoon, Yuri had to separate with us for she live in the other side of the world (LOL, neighbourhood). It’s sort of awkward, Jessica and Taeyeon, the secret and me together. What’s the secret?

“You ride a bike right, Jessica? Where is it?” Taeyeon blurted out.

“Flat tires.” Her voice sounded bored.

“Thanks for taking care of Fany when you two are together, you know Fany is like a child.” Taeyeon continued to harass me verbally. GRRRRRRR.

“No worries.” Jessica smiled, a bit.

Why is she so good at controlling her emotions?

“Taeyeon, is Fany avoiding me?” She suddenly asked, coolly and confidently. She’s just too straight forward and I froze from where I stand.

LOVERHOLIC. ROBOTRONIC.

“No, she isn’t. Sometimes she’s just dumb like that.” I could see Taeyeon’s teeth shining at me. Ugh.

“I see.” Jessica looked at Taeyeon with her supaaaahhh poker face. I don’t know if she believed her or not.

“In fact, Fany likes you.” Taeyeon continued and looked at me as I tried to move my body. I can’t even process what she told Jessica!!! I don’t like it, Taeyeon being the one to tell Jessica this. >,< It should be me, isn’t it? THE SECRET!!! I WANNA KNOW IT!

“I like Fany too.” Jessica replied as she looked at me with those kind eyes, her smile was reaching her ears, making her cheeks more defined. OMYGOSH, pretty sight. (*u*)

And the hell, I could see Taeyeon’s teeth again. Grrr, that smirk!! And what more, these two are talking like I wasn’t around. And I can’t even react. It felt like someone had put paper on my mouth....

Damn.

“I like Fany too.”

Does Jessica likes me the way I like her??? OMYGOSH.

I felt the heat again, tingling on my cheeks. I palmed my face as I sat near the window inside my room.

“OMYGOSH. OMYGOSH. Was Jessica confessing? OMYGOSHHHHHHHHH...” I was spazzing like a crazy fangirl.

Exaggerated Tiffany mode.

“She likes me, she likes meeeeeee...” I then rolled on my bed infinitely while hugging my pinky pillow.

First day of exams has never been this sweet and memorable.

*WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA~ I HAVEN’T ASKED ABOUT THE SECRET!!!! SORRY READERSSSS!!!! I FORGOT!!! WHY DIDN’T YOU REMIND ME?! I would be making up for you by just eye-smiling, okay???*

*eyesmiles*

Then, I’m back rolling on my bed again.

“JESSSSSSSSSIIIIIIIIICAAAAAAA~” I hugged my pillow harder.

11 First Responsibility

After two days of pondering my brain, I felt the need to disregard my consciousness when I’m with Jessica. I tried so hard, really hard to act the way I always did but she kept on asking me, like every minute of the day if I was avoiding her or not. Which in fact, I’m not! It’s just that she do something to me that make me speechless. Breathless.

I’m trying so hard to act normal. To control my feelings but until when could I control it? I wonder. She acts normal too even though she said she likes me, maybe it’s not the way I like her then? Hopeless.. Jessicccccaaaaaaaaaaaa you oyster girl~!! *dizzy*

I had asked Taeyeon for advice but that shorty told me to take initiative, what the heck. Furthermore, she told me to do a first move on Jessica. Is she really serious? That’s embarrassing and I’ll just stick to being friends... unless.. well, unless Jessica does the first move...

Because I am. S.H.Y. :”>

I put my pen and my pencil inside my pencil case. Last day of exams had just finished and our adviser told everyone to stay for we should discuss about the school festival. By the way, the school festival would be happening next week, Friday. So we still have, uhhh..

*counts my fingers*

About nine days to prepare for it.

“Each class should have their own booth in the upcoming school festival. Any suggestions?” the adviser said.

No reaction.

Our adviser sighed. I do think that all of my classmates were still having a hangover because our last exam was English. I don’t freaking care because I’m really good at it. Heeh. Literally though, one of my classmates had to be brought to the clinic because her nose bled. And oh, the name of the girl was Hyo-something.

Wah!! The other day I was talking about Sun-something and now Hyo-something, they’re not relatives or anything, okay.

“Since no one’s reacting, may I call on our class representatives?” the adviser looked at me then shifted his usual gullible look at Jessica.

Jessica then stood up and pulled my sleeve, motioning me to go with her onto the platform. I stood up then and glanced at Taeyeon and her mouth lip-synched the word, “Go Fany!” and Yuri was shaking her hand with her ultimate ‘okay sign’ which was kind of disturbing. What I did was just to look at her and smile awkwardly.

I still can’t believe she’s really considering me as a friend. =__= Yuri has been going home with Taeyeon and me. Furthermore, Jessica is with us too, it has been a habit. A good one in my opinion for they would always laugh with how dense I am!! And I feel happy inside too, going home with Jessica every day even though she is making me tongue-tied.

*snap*

Jessica snapped her fingers in front of my face because I was spacing out, stopping midway.

“Miss Hwang, are you here with us?” Our adviser arranged his spectacles.

“Y-Yea.” I uttered.

“Will you and Miss Jung kindly assist me in discussing the festival with your classmates?” He commanded.

“Err, yea sure.” I uttered again while stepping onto the platform and noticed that Jessica was already writing something at the blackboard.

I cleared my throat.

“S-So, what do you guys wanna do with the err, uhh upcoming festival??” I asked them.

“..Any suggestions?”

Suddenly Taeyeon raised her hand.

“Yes, uhh Miss Kim...?” I found myself wanting to laugh but I controlled it nonetheless.

“Why so formal?” She frowned at me.

“Anyway, how about a horror booth!!! That would be nice right?” Taeyeon offered and I suddenly heard whispers in the room. I glanced at the blackboard and Jessica was writing this:

For school festival.

Majority Wins:

1. Horror booth

Ooh, her handwriting is pretty. She doesn’t really write notes so this was the first time I saw her handwriting clearly. Why does it even bother that I like her handwriting too? It’s as if I like everything about her...

“Any other suggestions?” I looked around the room and Yuri raised her hand. For the first time in my life, I thanked destiny for having Yuri be my friend. I don’t want to talk with my classmates who are still drifting like sands because of the previous exams. They don’t give reactions anyway, LOL zombies.

“Yes, Yuri?” I called out to her.

“How about a Sooyoung Merchandise Booth?? Isn’t that great?? We’ll have tonsssss~” Yuri opened her arms wide to act how big or how many merchandise would be in the booth.

“Tons of Sooyoung love~” she finished and I saw all the people in the room frowned, including the adviser. So Yuri just took her seat and placed her hand on her chin. Hopeless.

But Jessica wrote it anyway. Heeh.

For school festival.

Majority Wins:

1. Horror booth

2. Choi Merchandise

“Any other????” I asked them again. I don’t want the horror booth!!! Just thinking of it makes me get frightened. Oh gosh. And the Choi Merchandise is just so random!! I don’t think our class would win the ‘Best Booth in the School’ award if we would go with that, besides not all of us are Sooyoung fans!! I know Yuri just wanted to have income because she’s the one producing the merchandise. -___-

Our adviser suddenly got up from his seat and stood beside me.

“Is this the only idea you guys have?” He started to say.

“You’ll never win the ‘Best Booth in School’ award then. Don’t you want that?” he continued.

“If you guys win that award, don’t you know?! DON’T YOU KNOW!?” He suddenly sounded angry and I stiffened on my position.

“DON’T YOU KNOW?!!!” He raised his hand and turned around 360 degrees on his position while his arms were opened wide.

Oh man, weird adviser!! What’s happening to him? My classmates’ mouth and eyes were opened widely because of shooooccckkk!

He stopped turning around and faced the whole class.

“DON’T YOU KNOW IF YOU WIN, YOU GUYS WOULD HAVE A SCHOOL YEAR SUPPLY OFFFFFFF~ WAAAHHH.” He screamed and my classmates’ eyes were popping out of their sockets. I then looked (I was wearing the same expression as my classmates) at Jessica and she just wore that blank face of hers. What a boss!

“YOU GUYS WOULD HAVE A SCHOOL YEAR SUPPLY OFFFFF PUDDDDDDDDIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGGGG!!!” Our adviser rotated his head like he was mad and I covered my mouth with my hand.

This is the horror booth, happening now!!

“So you guys better think twice of any booth you’ll do! And plus!!! If you guys win this, you’ll get two steps higher on your final grade this semester!! Bwahahahaha!!” The adviser suddenly announced and all my classmates talked incessantly. Oh, haven’t I told you guys, our adviser is our teacher in English so that’s why they reacted like that.

Suddenly the girl who had a nosebleed raised her hand, Hyo-something.

“Yes? Hyo-something?” I asked then the class laughed.

Huh?! What’s funny?!

I looked at Jessica and she still wore that blank face of hers. I shifted my eyes to Taeyeon, I was asking for her help. I don’t effin’ know the real name of this Hyo-something.

“I am Kim Hyoyeon, Tiff-something.” She grinned at me and the class laughed again. WTF!

“Oh, yeah right, sorry, yes Hyoyeon?” I smiled awkwardly at her.

“How about a Cafe Booth?” She glanced around and all my classmates nodded in unison. The adviser was also nodding his head. Damn, just for the school year supply of pudding? I know what my classmates want is the two-step higher in English.

Jessica then started to write it.

For school festival.

Majority Wins:

1. Horror booth

2. Choi Merchandise booth

3. Cafe booth

“Any more suggestion?” I looked around and I saw all of them shook their heads. I then went to Jessica and asked her to be the one to talk to them now but she just answered me with her blank face. Cold face. >,< I sighed and gave up.

“Okay then, you guys have to vote for the booth you want.”

“Err, horror booth?” I counted. What the heck, even Taeyeon didn’t raise her hand, only about three raised their hands and Jessica wrote it down.

For school festival.

Majority Wins:

1. Horror booth - 3

2. Choi Merchandise booth

3. Cafe booth

“Next, Choi Merchandise Booth?” I looked at my classmates and only Yuri raised her hand. Err, not really, Yuri got Taeyeon’s hand and raised it herself. These two!! Are they even serious?

For school festival.

Majority Wins:

1. Horror booth - 3

2. Choi Merchandise booth – 2

3. Cafe booth

“Last one..” I guess it’s pretty obvious what booth we would have, right?

“Cafe booth.” Suddenly a crowd of people raised their hands. Me and Jessica raised our hands too.

For school festival.

Majority Wins:

1. Horror booth - 3

2. Choi Merchandise booth – 2

3. Cafe booth – 30

“Okay, so we’ll have Cafe Booth.” I announced.

“Any other suggestions, how we would uhm, do this? Any creative people out here?” I asked them, we needed to design the room to make it look like a cafe.

Hyoyeon raised her hand again and stood up.

“Sunny is a good sewer! And she designs well too, so that we could turn our room like a cafe!! Right Sunny?” She tapped Sunny on the shoulder.

“She could sew mascots for three days!!” Hyoyeon beamed.

That fast?! I don’t even know how to put thread inside the needle!

So Sunny is the person sitting in front of me, she is Sun-something. I find it amazing that Hyo-something and Sun-something are friends. Heehhhh.

“Can you do it for us Sun—somee—Sunny? You could pick anyone in the class to help you so don’t worry.” I smiled at her and she nodded reassuringly.

“Would it be all right then?” I asked her again just to confirm.

“Yes.” She smiled at me.

“Okay, so about the mascots, who would like to be mascots for the cafe?” I asked everyone. I don’t even know why is there a need for mascots, but maybe for customers to be inclined with the cafe.

Hyoyeon raised her hand again.

Gosh, is she really this participative??!

“Yes?” I asked her again.

“You and Jessica should be the mascots!” She grinned at me.

What??! Did I hear her right??! Was she even serious??!!

“Ehh? Why us and why—“ I just saw all of my classmates nodding their heads and hearing whispers that we two would be good mascots. Oh no. Not us. This is just incredibly insane. >,<

I glared at Jessica and she just looked at me. She looked sleepy. Okay, whatever.

“So?” I asked my classmates.

“Yes, Tiffany and Jessica as mascots is perfect right?” Yuri nodded her head while smiling and wandered her eyes around my classmates who are so agreeing with her. How did this happen!!

“Err so... I guess..” I tried to smile.

“Just accept it! All you have to do is to pass flyers around you know. We would be the one cooking, cleaning and serving the customers!” Hyoyeon said.

I’m not good at cleaning and cooking so I guess this would be all right then?

“Okay.” I suddenly uttered and everyone clapped their hands.

But Jessica hasn’t been asked yet. >,<

I looked at her again and she just nodded.

Okay, good luck to the two of us!

“What are our mascots though?” I asked Sunny.

“I’m still thinking of it. I’ll tell you tomorrow, okay?” She smiled at me again.

"How about the name of the cafe?" I glanced at everyone.

Hyoyeon raised her hand again, which in fact I have been expecting already.

"Mushmers Cafe!!!" She beamed at me.

What?!

"Huh?" I asked her skeptically.

"Mushmers!!! You don't know the english word mushmers?!" She sounded like I was some idiot but really, there is no 'mushmers' word in the dictionary!! DUH.

"Uhm?" My faced was disfigured.

"Mushmers! It means to be spellbind!! To be enthralled!!! Or to be hypnotized!!! You don't know that???!!!" She made me looked more stupid!

Hyoyeon glanced at the room and everyone laughed.

"What?" She said irritatingly.

"Maybe you meant 'mesmerized'! Not mushmers!!!" Sunny said, controlling her laugh.

"Oh!" She suddenly took her seat and looked down on the pavement because of embarassment.

"Anyway, I think 'mushmers' sounded cool! Right classmates?" Sunny asked everyone inside the room and everyone nodded in agreement.

"So, 'Mushmers Cafe' then??" Sunny looked at me now.

"Yea, 'Mushmers Cafe'." I said reassuringly.

Whatta name!!!

“Okay, the name has been decided. What about the chairs, tables, cooking materials and ingredients we would use?” I asked them.

“That’s easy! We’ll just contribute for the ingredients to be used.” Hyoyeon offered.

Good idea. She should be the class rep! >,<

“Oh, my uncle by the way, have tons of chairs and tables because he closed a restaurant he had. I’ll try my best to borrow them from him!” Yuri suddenly exclaimed.

“Okay then, so I guess, we’ll start doing the plan tomorrow?” I asked them and they all nodded their heads.

“OKAYY, DO YOUR BEST CLASS!!!!! CLASS DISMISS!!!” Our adviser suddenly dashed in front of me. All of my classmates started to stand up from their seat and dispersed.

“So much for the pudding.” I told Jessica as I put my bag on my back.

“What do you think of us being mascots?” I sighed.

“It’s fine..” she looked at me and smiled at bit.

“..and it would be fine as long as I’m with you..” She continued.

Oh MY. How could she be this sweet? I could feel my heart melting and I just looked away after smiling awkwardly at her.

Taeyeon and Yuri suddenly came into the scene with both of their lips grinning. Huh, funny!

“You two are mascots huh.” Taeyeon beamingly said. Sarcasm could be traced with her words! I really hate this micro organism!!!! I wanted to pulverize her!! >:[

“Yea?” I answered her annoyingly.

“Hey, at least you won’t be cleaning the dishes or something!” Yuri told me.

“I forgot to ask who knows how to bake! And to make coffee too!” I clapped my hands.

“Hey yoh, best friend look at me.” Taeyeon pointed at herself.

“I know how.” She said, braggingly.

“Aye! I forgot!” I confessed and Jessica suddenly held my arm. I’m getting used to it though so it’s not much of a deal. Well, in fact I loved it. ♥

“What about coffee-maker though?” I asked hysterically.

“What the Tiffany, anyone could make coffee! You’re the only one who doesn’t know how!” Taeyeon countered me again.

Yea, yea right ‘coz I’m a princess. B-)

I suddenly felt Jessica tugging my sleeve and I looked at her, shyly.

“Let’s go home?” Jessica’s words sounded like a whisper.

“Okay.” She squeezed me on my arm.

“Lovers.” Taeyeon put her tongue out.

She’s teasing us again?! And the way she said the word, ‘lovers’ made me blush a little. Oh no. I felt the need to not look at Jessica, I feel embarrassed.

“What are you talking about?!” I slapped her lightly.

“I’m talking about the truth. Hee.” Taeyeon narrowed her eyes on me and Jessica while painting a grin on her lips.

“Huh?” I said.

“That’s enough, okay? Let’s go home mascots.” Yuri said teasingly.

I really feel verbally harassed by these two. T_________T

“La la la la~” Taeyeon started to hum.

“La lo lolovers~” Teasing me again and I just stared at the pavement to hide my further embarrassment. Jessica was still holding my arm and she acted like she doesn’t hear anything.

“Boo! Lovers!!” Taeyeon suddenly moved her face closer, inches away from ours.

“Annoying.” Jessica uttered while not looking at Taeyeon and she silenced herself.

“Let’s go home~” Taeyeon said, disappointed by Jessica’s reaction.

~~~

“What’s the secret Taeyeon?” I asked Taeyeon the moment Jessica left the two of us, momentarily riding her bicycle now. She looked so calm and cool while riding her bicycle~

“Secret.” She teased me again.

“Tell it to me please~ I’ll do everything!!” I begged. I hate begging because I want Tae~ to be the one who begs but there’s nothing I could do but to use my cards, openly.

“Anything?” Taeyeon smirked. Ugh. I hate it when this little creature is belittling me!! I swear! I f only this wasn’t the only way!

“Yes!” I told her.

“Then, Fany~ah.. I’ll tell it to you, if..you...."

“Confess to Jessica your feelings.” She smirked more.

“HUH?! What?! Are you serious??? For real?!” I asked her surprisingly.

“Yeah. You choose.” She smiled at me and I hate it!

“Confess to Jessica or..” she crossed her arms and leaned closer.

“Ask Jessica yourself.” She moved backward, in her position before.

“You choose, best friend.” She smirked.

“Hell! I’d rather asked her than confess!!!” I said.

“Ask her then. Good luck.”

“I hate you!” I yelled.

“It’s the same thing, what if Jessica won’t tell it to you? Then you’ll have to confess too ‘coz you want to know it. You’ll really want to know it though. Although the secret is just so simple.” She sounded like she was telling a death threat.

Is Taeyeon really my best friend?!

She has a point though! What if Jessica won’t tell it to me? But I also have no assurance that Tae would tell it to me if I confess to Jessica!! >,< Maybe I need to ask Jessica first then? What do you think reader? I’m at lost!

“Choose.” Taeyeon elbowed me as we reach my house.

“Ugh! Give me time to think until tomorrow!!”

“You still have a responsibility, remember? School festival plus you’re our ultimate mascot.”

“You can do it, Fany!” Taeyeon smiled.

“I hope!!! I sometimes think if you’re really my best friend or what!? You’re pushing me to the limits!” I pouted at her.

“A little challenge won’t hurt, right? You and Jessica almost look like lovers in my eyes.” She winked.

“Challenge??! You’re making me suffer!! And we’re not lovers! We’re just friends!!” I said.

“Special friends.”

“Not.”

“Yes you two are.”

“No!”

“But she said she likes you too, have you forgotten that?”

I froze on my place.

“I like Fany too.” Taeyeon copied the way Jessica told it two days ago.

“But she still acts normal, maybe she doesn’t even meant it to be that ---“

“She’s good at hiding her feelings.” She cut me off.

“I don’t want to believe what I want to believe. I don’t want to expect anything.”

“Ooh, really?”

“Yeah.”

“Let’s wait and see then.” Taeyeon looked at me.“I think sooner or later, you’ll be real lovers. Heeh.”

I looked away while going inside our gate and said goodbye to her, annoyed.

“I think sooner or later, you’ll be real lovers. Heeh.”

I palmed my face. Thump thump.

“I think sooner or later, you’ll be real lovers. Heeh.”

“I think sooner or later, you’ll be real lovers. Heeh.”

I kept hearing Taeyeon’s words over and over again.

I should be thinking of the secret, not this!

“I think sooner or later, you’ll be real lovers. Heeh.”

Lovers?

“Lovers?” I whispered to myself.

But ain’t I too young for love? Ain’t this wrong?

Lovers...?

I don’t even think about that possibility but if---

OMG, my mind got suddenly filled with me hugging her, even putting my arm on her shoulder, leaning my head, holding her hands and and and and and kissing her!! >,<

Those lips...

Perverted Tiffany!!

I slapped myself. I should think now of what to do and what to choose!

12 First School Festival - Part 1

“What?! We would be wearing this today??!” I asked Sunny hysterically while I stretched the mushroom costume. Why should I even wear this? I never imagined myself wearing this!

“Moreover, while a mushroom costume?” I looked at Jessica who is silently glaring at her cucumber costume. Her eyes narrowed at it, her mouth opening to speak something but decided to close it and not talk.

“Mushmers!” Sunny opened her arms wide.

“I had been contemplating and pondering as to what costumes to make!” She suddenly put her hand on Hyoyeon’s shoulder.

“And voila! The idea came into my mind like a rare wisdom of creativity!” She turned around, 360 degrees.

“Mushmers is Mushroom plus Cucumberrrrrr!!!!! Makes sense, right, right?” Sunny suddenly got Hyoyeon’s hand and they danced Swing.

Weirdo somethings!!!! Why did I ever get myself into this mess?!

I sighed.

“You two should change now!! So that we would find out if it fits you or Sunny we’ll have to fix it to fit your bodies.” Hyoyeon commanded us.

Jessica started exiting the door and I followed her. I put the pink mushroom costume in front of me and stared at it.

“Why mushroom?” I pouted and tugged the costume to my arms.

“Why cucumber then?” Jessica looked at me and rolled her eyes.

I laughed at Jessica’s rolling eyes and she looked at me.

“Don’t you know I hate cucumbers? I don’t eat them.” She said.

“I know now ‘coz you’ve told me already.” I said.

“Yeah, right.” She replied.

“Those somethings should wear Lolita costumes to make up for these or see-through clothes!!!” I said cursing the somethings while Jessica and I enter the rest room.

“Somethings?” Jessica asked me, puzzled.

“Because I called them Sun-something and Hyo-something? So they are the somethings??” I asked innocently and Jessica laughed.

I smiled at her, this was the first time I saw her laugh and I was the reason behind it. *happy*

Goodness, I’m glad we are the only ones inside the rest room or else we would totally feel embarrassed being seen by many people with these insane costumes. >,<

“Let’s go change now.” Jessica looked at me blankly, her hand motioning inside the second cubicle.

I opened my mouth slightly.

WHAA? She’s inviting me to go change together with her inside a cubicle? US TOGETHER IN ONE CUBICLE, CHANGING???!!!!!

My eyes widened then Jessica narrowed her eyes on me.

“Perv.” I saw her mouth opened while saying the word slowly.

She walked, went inside the cubicle and locked it.

Eh?! Waaaaaaaaaaah!!!

I raised my hands hysterically and went inside the unoccupied cubicle.

“Fany.” I heard her say on the other cubicle while I was trying so hard putting the mushroom costume onto my head. UGH!

“Yesh?” I said while my face was covered by the head of the pink mushroom costume.

“We’ll go out together, okay?” she yelled.

“You finish changing already?” I pulled the sleeves of the costume on my arms and dizzyingly asked her.

“Yea, Fany sure is slow.” I could sense the boredom on her voice.

“Just. Wait. Okay.” I pulled the costume onto my head and I found where my head should be. I could feel the weight of the mushroom’s head on mine. God, I know I look like a freak with this costume. .___. Just knowing this mushroom’s head has pink spots on it.

“I’m finished.” I called out to Jessica.

“We’ll both go out once I finished counting three, okay?” she answered.

I wonder what Cucumber Jessica looks like?

“Okay.” I sighed, staring down at my feet which are now covered with the mushrooms single body. It’s hard walking. I felt weird seeing a pointed shape between my legs because of how a mushroom looked like. DAMN.

“One..” she started counting.

“Two...” I reached for the knob.

“Three... Go...” we both opened the doors of the cubicles and faced each other.

Jessica’s body is now green. And she too has a pointed shape in between her legs because of the cucumber’s structure. (I assume you readers know how a mushroom and a cucumber look like, right?? .__.)

My eyes then went up to look at her face. And her face painted her usual blank face, though I could really tell that she is annoyed. I looked at her and yes, I burst out laughing while pointing my index finger towards her face.

“You!!” I laughed hard again, putting my hand onto my stomach because of laughing so hard.

“Cucumber!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” I laughed again.

“Look who’s talking pink mushroom.” She rolled her eyes.

“Oh, you also got a pointed shape in between your legs.” She smirked at me and I pouted.

“And you’ve got a big head with pink spots.” She too pointed at me and laughed. Her laugh was conservative yet musical. I love hearing it. :”>

“So?? Are we going back to the room with these costumes??” I suddenly asked her. But, seriously, I don’t want to walk around school with these costumes. .__.

“No. It fits you right?” She asked me and she was staring at the pointed shape in between my legs. Oh man, this is making me feel conscious.

“Yes.”

“Let’s change back to uniforms then.” She walked inside the cubicle and locked it again.

After changing and exiting the rest room, we told Sunny that the costumes fit us.

“That’s nice to hear! Have you guys liked it?” She said beamingly to us.

“Y-yea.” I pretended.

“By the way, the room has now been designed to look like a cafe. You might want to look around denseFany.” She said while getting the costumes from us and placing it in a paper bag.

Where the hell did she get the ‘denseFany’ thing?! I suddenly heard Taeyeon’s giggles around and I glared at her, pumping my fist in front of her.

“Hey, hey the truth hurts you?” I suddenly felt Yuri’s hand on my shoulder.

“By the way Tiffany, have you decided if you would join the SY Club?” I glanced at her and saw a pin placed on her chest with the word, “MY SY, MY LOVE” and an image of Sooyoung in jerseys. Really a hard core fan. =__=

“Err, I’m in the Arts club now, so..” I said.

“Don’t you know, you could join two clubs? And Tae told me you still haven’t got any activities in Arts club except making origami!!” Yuri insisted.

“Origami-making is fun!” I said defensively even if it isn’t really fun. At least I’ve learned how to make a frog out of a paper, an envelope too and even a paper plane. Okay, everybody knows how to make a paper plane. Pfffff, but I’m proud so whatever, my plane could fly!!!

“You heard Fany, she doesn’t want to join.” I suddenly heard Jessica’s voice.

“Don’t persuade her about something she doesn’t want.” She continued, looking at Yuri with her blank face.

I sometimes think Jessica hates Yuri because she always say things that makes Yuri freeze on her place, or shall I say, makes her feel irritated. Maybe, Jessica just doesn’t like her after all or maybe she still can’t forget what Yuri had done to me. @___@

“Think of it, Fany.” Yuri narrowed her eyes towards Jessica and smiled at me.

“Jessica, maybe you’re the one who really wants to join?? You’re just not telling it to me?” Yuri grinned at Jessica and to answer her, Jessica turned her back and grabbed me.

“Look.” Jessica made me turned around too and saw the big banner of our booth, “MUSHMERS! CAFE” which was painted in big bold blue letters. I swear, the name is just so-so- I don’t know! >,<

Sunny came running to us and made me see the costumes the waiters and waitresses should wear. How come the waiters’ and waitresses’ costume should look this pretty whilst me and Jessica would wear weird costumes as mascots!? And suddenly, Taeyeon was already wearing the attire, parading it in the corridor.

“Hey, best friend. I’m one of the cafe’s waitress, and I would bake cakes too!!” Taeyeon winked at me and posed a v-sign while Yuri suddenly appeared taking pictures of her. What the.....?? Even her camera has Sooyoung stickers all over. @___@

“Nice costume, I envy you!” (T,T) I said. She posed in front of me, making me drool more, over the cute white and black costume. SO CUTE~ GYAAAA~

“Heh, but you know what, I’m looking out for your costumes.” She grinned.

“You don’t need to. They are.. errr.”

“MUCH CUTER THAN WHAT YOU WEAR!!” Sunny said happily.

@___@ Does Sunny even think.

“Say cheesssee lovers!!” Yuri suddenly said towards me and Jessica and I swear, my mouth was opening slightly because Yuri suddenly popped out in front of us!

Why should our first picture together look like this?! .____________. Pathetic!! I know I looked ugly and I hogged the camera of Yuri to see it. >,<

“Let me see! Let me see!!” I shouted while tugging the camera.

“Wait! Wait!” Yuri removed the camera from her neck and gave it to me. Jessica was still beside me, our faces inches apart while we stare at our first ever picture. :”>

But when I stared at it,

FAILED PICTURE!!!

My face was shocked, moreover my mouth was opened and Jessica’s face was blank, she looked like she would eat the camera!! .___.

UGLY!! >,<

Then I stared at it more,

Okay, something made me happy. :”>

Our arms were locked together. :”>

Oh, I swear, I feel heavenly that I smiled sheepishly.

“You looked weird, Fany.” I suddenly heard Jessica and my sheepish smile disappeared all of a sudden.

“Delete that Yuri!!” I pouted.

“No! This is your first ever picture! I shall not!” She said.

“But I looked like I would be swallowing the camera while Jessica looks like...”

“What she usually looks like.” Taeyeon finished my sentence.

“Take us another picture!!” I begged Yuri.

“NO!!” Yuri said.

“Why? Just one more picture!!” I said.

“NO!! My memory would be full! The remaining memory of my camera is dedicated to Sooyoung~baby. Sorry Fany!!” she said.

“Then just delete our previous picture!” I said, unsuccessfully tugging the camera towards me.

“No, I won’t! It’s a precious memory of Jeti!!” she said.

“WHAT??!!!” I asked her surprised.

“Jeti who??” I continued and I sensed Jessica yawning beside me.

Yuri smiled awkwardly and shifted her stare at Taeyeon who seemed disappointed.

“I guess there’s nothing we could do but to reveal it.” Taeyeon surrendered.

“Is this the secret??” I smirked. Heeh, I am still thinking of what to choose but gracious goodness!! Thanks to Yuri’s camera and slip-of-tongue, I would know it now and Jessica is here too. :P Yes, baby!!!

“No.” Taeyeon narrowed her eyes on me.

“Eh?”

TIFFANY DEFEATED.

“Taeyeon and me.. is well... we mixed you and Jessica’s names and came up with the name... JeTi... well, when we are talking about you two... we use that... Hee” Yuri said.

“JeTi is Jessica plus Tiffany.” She grinned widely at me.

“You liked it Tiffany?” she grinned again.

I froze in my place. Is this two really considering us as a couple?!!!! Oh man. And they’re talking behind our backs?! @__________@

I glanced at Jessica and she looked at me.

“We are JeTi.” She said to me and smiled a bit.

Man, she liked it. Totally weirdo Jessica. =___=

I smiled back too though, I liked it too. :P

“Oh gosh, the ambiance is getting romantic.” I saw Taeyeon fanning herself with her hand and I frowned.

“Anyway what do you think of how our room looks like now?” Yuri interjected.

“It really looks like a cafe now, right Jessica?” I looked at her and she nodded.

“You guys made a good job.” I announced.

“Tomorrow is the day!! Let’s do our best!!” Taeyeon jumped like a child and she high-fived all of us. We continued to arrange our room and decorated it more. We got home earlier than expected and I rest to ready myself for tomorrow’s festival.

IT’S MY FIRST SCHOOL FESTIVAL!! (*u*) I’m so excited!!

Oh, I forgot, I would be wearing a mushroom costume. >,< and the damn secret!!!!!!!! Grrrr!

“So she said, "What's the problem baby?"

What's the problem I don't know

Well maybe I'm in love, think about it every time

I think about it, can't stop thinking 'bout it

How much longer will it take to cure this

Just to cure it 'cause I can't ignore it if it's love

Makes me wanna turn around and face me

But I don't know nothing about love.”

-Accidentally in Love; Counting Crows

12 First School Festival - Part 2

“Wake up dear.” I heard my mother call out to me.

“Someone’s waiting for you.” She continued and I opened my eyes. I sat up while scratching my head.

“Why does Taeyeon have to be this early?!” I whispered and scratched my head again.

“Should she be this excited?” I sighed as I stared at my mother who was now leaving my room.

I got up and looked outside the window. And I saw a blonde-haired girl

Did Taeyeon decide to dye her hair blonde???!

I stared more and rubbed my eyes.

“It’s Jessica!????????? Eh???????????????” I closed my curtains when I saw her standing at the gate, staring at me with her bicycle.

“Why should she -----?? Oh man!!!” I dashed around the room and quickly wore my uniform. I went to the bathroom, washed my face and I also brushed my teeth, I almost tripped at the book lying on the floor because I was in a hurry.

“Wah~ Why is Jessica here??!!!!” I brushed my hair hurriedly, not even caring how in the world I looked like. I could see some hair strands not in place and I pulled my hair.

“UGH!!! Please behave my hair!!” I brushed it again.

She is waiting for me. Sheesh.

I went down the stairs and put my shoes on my feet faster than I usually do.

“Bye mom!!” I yelled as I opened our front door.

“Take care honey!” I heard my mother yell back.

“Why you here?” I greeted her.

“Is that how you greet me early in the morning?” she said coldly.

DAMN.

“You should have called first so that I would wake up earlier!” I said frustratingly.

“I don’t have your number.” With that she brought out her scarlet phone and gave it to me.

“Number.” She said and I pushed on the buttons, registering in her phone my mobile number.

“Where’s Taeyeon?” I asked her.

“She’s readying some Sooyoung merchandise with Yuri so she needs to be earlier.” She said calmly.

“By the way, your chest is wet and furthermore, your right shoe is on your left foot and your left shoe is on your right foot.” She glanced at my shoes and she was correct!!

OH MAN!!

I removed my shoes and interchanged them.

“How come you know she won’t be coming? She didn’t even message me!” I asked.

“She did.” Jessica said and I glanced at my phone and she was right.

33 missed calls.

“Damn it Tae!!” I said irritatingly.

12 messages.

I pushed my phone’s button angrily.

“Take it easy.” Jessica said.

I read the 12 messages which are:

---------5:06 am----------

Have fun early in

the morning, best friend. ;)

from: Kim Taeyeon

Taeyeon is so ugh!!! She messaged me 12 times just to tell me have fun over and over again!!! I closed my phone and put it inside my pocket. So Jessica and I had been set-up by Yuri and Taeyeon!!!! >,<

“Let’s go?”Jessica said and she suddenly rode her bicycle. ....So I would be walking then?! .___.

“Get on.” She said.

“What?” I asked, surprised.

“Get on.” She repeated and I did.

I suddenly felt uncomfortable when I felt our bodies are inches apart from each other. Then I clutched my hands towards the metal to hold on, so that I won’t fall over the bicycle when we travel.

“Not there.” She glanced at me.

“Huh?” my eyes widened and she rolled her eyes.

“You think that thin metal won’t make you fall over? Your hand will slip.” She said.

“Put your hand on my waist.” She suddenly looked away.

“Eh?” I said and I could feel my heart beating fast.

“Uhhhhhhhh...”

“Quick. We’ll be late, we still need to arrange things for the festival.” She didn’t look at me.

I slowly and cautiously placed my hand on her waist. I could already feel my stomach flip-flop. As soon as my finger tips touched her waist, I could feel my heart banging inside my chest. Jessica suddenly held my hands and put them into place, making me feel the softness of her body. I could feel the warmth of her hands and she quickly removed it over mine. Oh gosh, I think I would die anytime........

“Hold on tight.” She glanced at me, and I swear I could see her blush..

What...................?

“O-Okay..” I was blushing too as I cling my hands onto her uniform. She started pedalling the bicycle and we started to move. She wouldn’t even speak a word.

“Err.. Jessica..” I suddenly talked and the bicycle suddenly bounced as we reached a hump, making my head bumped on Jessica’s back. And I looked like I was embracing her while we were riding the bicycle.

“S-Sorry..” I said shyly.

“It’s fine, you all right?” she asked and I could hear her voice vibrate as I slowly removed my head on her back.

“Y-Yea..”

I didn’t dare to speak again. Shyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy.

When we reached the school, we both got out of the bicycle and I wait for her as she locked it in the school’s parking lot for bicycles. She tossed the keys and placed it inside her pocket.

“Let’s go?” She suddenly held my arms as we walked inside the campus.

“Hey yoh!!” Yuri greeted us. She was wearing a jersey, Sooyoung’s jersey with the number ‘24’ printed in front. She turned around and the name ‘Choi’ was printed on the back.

“You wanna buy this Jessica?” Yuri got a Sooyoung light stick from her pockets and lit it up.

“No, thanks.” Jessica said coldly and Taeyeon emerged out of nowhere as she was carrying a box.

“What’s that?” I asked her. I wandered my eyes around and I just noticed that many people were already arranging their respective booths.

She put the box and opened it. Jessica and I peeped inside and what I saw were fans stamped with Sooyoung’s face.

“Me and Yuri decided to do a business together. Don’t worry we’ll sell these after our shift on our cafe booth.” Taeyeon grinned.

“Many will buy these fans because Sooyoung~unnie’s image here is rare!! And what more, Sooyoung~unni herself promised us to appear after her shift on their booth so that we would attract more customers!!!” I could again see the spark of obsession on her eyes.

What did Sooyoung do to my best friend? @_@

“So, err, uhh good luck then.” I could again feel Jessica tug my sleeves.

“We need to change to our costumes now.” She told me.

“Err, yea..” I said, defeated.

Now, many people would undoubtedly see us. .___.

As we walk the corridors, the somethings emerged out of nowhere.

“Hey mascots!” Sunny was wearing the cute waitress costume. *drools* Hyoyeon too was wearing it!! Unfair!! >,<

Sunny then handed us the paper bag where our costumes were placed.

“Our booth is ready now, we’re just waiting for our mascots.” Sunny smiled.

“We’ll go change quickly now.” I said as me and Jessica left them to change.

“Aren’t you shy...?” I said after we changed.

“No...” Jessica looked at me.

“Because I’m with you.” She smiled. Now it’s a full smile, her cheeks getting more emphasized and her eyes are smiling too~

*Dieeeeeeeeesssssssssssssssss* how could she be this pretttttttttttyyyyyyyyy? :”>

“Let’s go?” she grabbed my hand as we exited the rest room. Oh man, all people are staring at us and I could hear them whispering with each other and as soon as they finished whispering, they would giggle or grin. >____________<

“Now, I’m feeling shy.” Jessica looked at me and she smiled again.

“I told you.. this is embarrassing...” I answered her as we dashed quickly towards a pack of people.

“You’re embarrassed?” she said as we stopped when we reached our booth.

“Kind of..” I smiled at her.

“Will you be embarrassed when we became lov---?“

Sunny suddenly came running and cut her off.

“Ta-da!” Sunny said as she opened the locks of the room and all of our classmates were there, wearing their respective attires. The room really looks like a cafe now and everybody was smiling at us. I was amazed at everyone’s effort.

“Omo!! SO FLUFFFFFYYYY!!” Hyoyeon was pinching the head of my mushroom costume.

Heeh.

“What are you talking about a while ago Jessica?” I was curious of what she was talking about.

Would I be embarrassed if we became??? WHAT?!

“Nothing.” She said and we got the flyers from Yuri.

“We’ll be opening now so the flyers should be passed around the corridors now too!” Hyoyeon said excitedly.

“Taeyeon had also baked a couple of cakes yesterday and a while ago!! Sunny had cooked pasta too! Good thing Seo-sshi brought a microwave!” she continued as she tapped Soshi(?)

“Oh.” I glanced at Soshi. Is she Japanese?

“Hello Class rep!” Soshi greeted me cheerfully.

“Hello Soshi..? Sushi...?” I asked confused and Taeyeon suddenly slapped me in the head.

“Forgive my best friend, she’s really hopeless and dense, and have a poor memory. Fany, she is not ‘soshi’! And furthermore not ‘SUSHI’!!!” Taeyeon glared at me.

Go, Tae, continue to verbally harass me. @_@

“But Hyo said—“ I tried to argue.

“She is Seohyun. Don’t you notice her????” Taeyeon rolled her eyes.

“Oh!!” I answered surprisingly.

“Sorry! And thanks for bringing the microwave!” I smiled.

“It’s all right unnie!” she answered.

“Unnie?” I asked.

“It’s because she got accelerated that’s why she’s our classmate and all of us are three years older than her.” Taeyeon kept on rolling her small eyes.

“Ah, I see.” I smiled again and suddenly, Seohyun got Jessica’s hand and shook it.

“Cutesyyyy cucumber~~~ You look like Keroro~ so greeeeennn~”

“Hello Sica-unnie!!” Seohyun said.

SICA-UNNIE?! SICAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA?!

“She... she is... uhh... Seohyun is my uhh.. cousin..” Jessica said uncomfortably and everyone inside the room was shocked.

“How come I don’t see you two talked with each other???” Taeyeon was shocked too.

“Sica-unnie and I aren’t close.” Seohyun admitted and Jessica nodded her head.

“But she’s such a cutesy cucumbyyy nowwww~” She said musically and brought out a camera.

“Class-rep~unnie, take a picture of me and Cutesy Cucumby~unnie” she handed me the phone.

Me?! Why it should be me??? Man, my status now is not good, I could already feel sweat drip down my body because of this costume. ;___;Moreover, reaching for something is hard too!

“One, two, three.” I clicked the camera and Jessica was with her usual blank face while Seohyun was hugging her.

Weirdo child is like weirdo cousin. XD

“Enough now! Let’s start! Let’s start!” Hyoyeon called to everyone.

“We’ll go out to pass the flyers now..” I said as Jessica and I exited the booth.

“Here.” I gave Jessica a bundle of flyers.

“Hello! Good morning everyone! We are from the---“ Suddenly a group of girls came running and took pictures of them with Jessica.

“OMG CUTE CUCUMBER!!!!!” Girl number one said.

“You’re right!!! And the cucumber has blonde hair~ she looks so coolllll~” Girl number two pinched Jessica’s cheek. >________<

I FEEL JEALOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I looked away.

“Excuse me mushroom-unnie...” Girl number three said.

“Can you take pictures of us with cute-cucumber~unnie?” she continued.

o(>__<)o ME AGAIN?! DO I LOOK LIKE A MUSHY PHOTOGRAPHER?!!!! DAMN IT!!!!

“Uhh... okay..” she handed me a camera and girl number three joined girl number one and two. What more? GIRL NUMBER THREEE HUGGEEEEEDDDDDDDDD JESSIIIIIIIIIIIIICAA!! I wanna put my mushroom head onto her mouth!!! Grrr!!!!!

I controlled my face from frowning after I finished capturing their picture.

“Thanks unnie~” Girl number one said.

THAT’S IT?? YOU DON’T WANT AN IMAGE WITH ME??Fine!! ;_________; I feel so hopeless now.

“D-D-Don’tt f-forget.. to p-please vi-sit o-our booth, please do.” Jessica said blankly at the girls and they screamed, fangirl screams. >_<

“Omo, speaking cute cucumber~unnie!” Girl number three suddenly kissed Jessica on the cheek and Jessica suddenly got dizzy.

Oh man!!!!

The girl blushed and motioned her friends to get inside the cafe.

“Bye cute-cucumber~unnie!!” Girl number three kept on spazzing. I hate her to death! I wanna punched her to the face!

But when I glanced back to Jessica, she had collapsed already.

Oh no!

“Jessica, are you all right? Hey?” I tried to carry her but the costume is so heavy!! >,<

She suddenly opened her eyes and continually wiped her cheeks.

“Eww, that girl kissed me! Annoying!” She said as she tried to stand up.

“Ugh!!” She said again and I laughed.

“Maybe if we make a ‘Free one kiss to Cucumber-unnie after you buy a meal’ sign, our customers would increased.” I smiled.

But of course I don’t want that. >_<

“Won’t you be jealo----?”

Sunny suddenly came and cut her off, again!!! Damn it Sunny!

“Hey you two there, what happened?” she said.

“Our customers are increasing because of Cucumber Jung. They all wanted to took pictures of her.” Sunny announced.

I looked around and suddenly saw camera flashes all around, even taking pictures of a lying cucumber on the floor.

“Eh?” was all I can react.

“Stand, Cucumber Jung!” Sunny and I helped Jessica to stand up.

“What are you saying a while ago Jessica?” I asked.

“Nothing.” She looked away and stood from her place, she started to pass flyers again.

I too started to pass flyers and soon enough, another group of girls started to take pictures of Cucumber again. Man, don’t I have appeal?? I always end up being the photographer. >,< And after three hours of being mascots, passing flyers and being a cucumber photographer, Hyoyeon and Sunny replaced us as mascots, at last, they pitied us! We also need to eat and rest you know. >,<

“Eh? Cucumber-cute-unnie is gone?” another girl said while looking at Hyoyeon who is now the cucumber.

“The new cucumber is not cute.” The girl with the ‘another girl’ said.

“YOU WANT ME TO TURN YOU TWO INTO REAL CUCUMBERS?!” Hyoyeon was pissed off and widened her eyes, the girls run away and Sunny laughed.

“You two, go eat and rest. We’ll be able to handle this perfectly!” Sunny winked at us.

I hope so.

Jessica and I went inside the cafe and a lot of people were already inside. Wow, I never imagined, we would have so many customers! I glanced around and saw Yuri doing her sideline. Could you believe it? While serving food, she would bring out her Sooyoung merchandise and would go sales-talking with the customers. She then placed the Sooyoung fan in front of the customers, and as if the customers had been spell-bound by Sooyoung’s charm, I heard them say, “WAHHH!! WE WOULDDD BUY ONEEEEE DOZENNNNNNNN PLEASEEE!!!”. @_@

Yuri looked at me and waved at us. I waved back.

“Eat mascots.” Taeyeon motioned the two of us to sit on the only table which is unoccupied.

“We’ll just take the food out.” Jessica said coolly at Taeyeon.

Huh? Where would we eat?

Jessica looked at me.

“Rooftop.” And I just nodded.

Taeyeon posed an ‘okay sign’ and dashed around the counter, placing food inside two boxes of Tupperware.

“Here, lovers.” She winked at Jessica and I slapped her again.

“Ouch.” She frowned.

“Oh, drinks.” Taeyeon filled two plastic cups with Iced Tea, placed them in a plastic and handed it to us.

“Thanks Tae!” I said cheerfully.

“That’s my cooking! Have fun.” She winked again and I groaned.

As Jessica and I exited the door, I saw a couple of boys taking pictures of Mushroom Sunny.

How envying. O_O

While Hyoyeon is the photographer now. LOL!

“Give me that.” She reached for the plastic of the drinks.

“Eh, I can manage. And you’re already holding the Tupperware..” I smiled.

“Give me.” She looked at me with cold eyes.

“O-Okay..” I gave the plastic to her.

As soon as we reached the rooftop, Jessica told me to go first and I did.

I sat beside the railings and she sat beside me. She placed the Tupperware out and the drinks too.

“Here.” She handed me the Tupperware and my beverage.

I opened the Tupperware and wow! It was like a bento box!!! There was pasta carbonara, cooked by Sunny and there were also carrots and corn as side dishes, plus there is a cake baked by Taeyeon!! I feel heaven! After working, I need food!! I put the fork and spoon out and started to eat. I glanced at Jessica and her faced was indescribable.

“Hey, you all right?” I asked her and glanced at her food.

“Oh, there’s cucumber.” I said as I put a spoonful of carrots and corn inside my mouth.

“Put it away!” She said, her face was getting red.

I then spooned the cucumbers and tried teasing her by placing the cucumbers on her mouth.

“STOP!!!” she was begging now. Haha, another new expression of Jessica.

This is called Using Cucumber as Harassment Measures. LOL!

I didn’t stop teasing her for I was fond with her frightened expression. Then I didn’t mean it but the cucumbers touched her lips. She put it away with all her strength, making the cucumbers fall from the rooftop. I put my hand on my mouth when I saw Sooyoung was on the ground and the cucumbers fell on her head, a cucumber also fell to her hand (LOL). She glanced upward and Jessica pulled me towards her, making me feel her breath near my face. The two of us then looked down again and Sooyoung glanced around, ate the cucumber that fell on her hand.

“Eww!” Jessica and I said in unison.

Then, we both laughed.

“Taste this cake.” She placed her spoon inches from my mouth.

“It’s delicious.” She continued.

And I just found myself leaning forward to eat.

“It’s delicious.” I said willing myself not to blush and she smiled.

When we finished eating, I suddenly realized that we are the only ones here. All people were busy enjoying the festival, downstairs. I flinched. I knew I could feel Jessica’s eyes resting on me. I looked at her, slowly and she didn’t look away. We stared at each other and I suddenly got conscious, so I looked away first, staring at my empty Tupperware.

“Tiring day, isn’t it?” I suddenly yawned and stretched my arms.

“Yes.” She answered.

This is your chance to ask the secret Tiffany!!

“Fany.”

“Jessica.”

We both said and looked away.

“Y-You first..” I said.

“Thanks..” she suddenly uttered.

“For what..?”

“For not avoiding me..”

“I-I well.. there’s no reason to avoid you, really.. You’re nice... and I.. well.. I love your company..” My cheeks are heating up. Why am I even saying this to her?

“Me too.” She answered and I looked at her.

“And.. just in case you care..” she traced the lid of the Tupperware with her hands and looked at me. I looked down.

This is so hard~

“I just want you to know that..” I glanced at her and she bit her lip while staring at the Tupperware.

“I.. I’m here to stay..”

“..and I’m not going anywhere...” she looked up at me and smiled shyly.

“T-Thanks..” I don’t know though why she suddenly said that.

Silence.

“Jessica.”

“Fany.”

We both said again and we let out a laugh.

“Your turn.” She smiled at me.

“Well...” I don’t know how to ask her.

“Can I cut you off?” she suddenly said while I was gathering my strength and I nodded.

“Fany..I..” she looked at me, straight into my eyes.

“I like you.” Her eyes were piercing mine and I looked down.

“Y-You.. already told me that... f-four days a-ago..” I was stuttering.

“Yes.” She said.

“But I wanted to elaborate.” She suddenly placed her hand over mine and I stiffened.

Elaborate?

“I.. I don’t know if this is the right time but..” she looked around and I know what she was thinking of.

“I think Sunny is.. still the mascot.” I grinned and she grinned at me too.

“Fany..”

“W-Wait.. may I call you.. S-Si-Sica?” I asked her. It’s unfair right, I didn’t know she has a nickname!

“Don’t.” Jessica said.

“Oh..” I suddenly felt disappointed.

“Call me Jessi.” She stared at me and I am blushing intensely.

“Jessi.” I mouthed the word and she smiled.

“You’re the only one who is allowed to call me that.” She admitted and I could feel my heart beating like a drum.

“May I continue?” She said and I nodded. Her hand was still over mine. The warmth was mesmerizing. Mushmers. Heeh, Hyoyeon. I suddenly smiled at her baboness. LOL.

“You stole.. my heart.” I think I was in a dream. Am I?

“I like you.” She said again.

“I-I-I like you too.” I looked at her straight into her eyes and she leaned forward. I closed my eyes hard and she embraced me. I embraced her back. I was blushing like a retard. @____@

“I like you.. since the day I met you..” she confessed, embracing me tighter.

“And.. sometimes.. I think....” she said when we parted and she touched my face. The felt of her hand on my face was overwhelming.

“I love you..” she admitted and my mouth was left hanging.

She was confessing already!!!!

“I-I’m telling you this.. because I can’t... control it.. anymore... it has been five years.... since I realized I... I like.. no, I love you...” she said again.

“I am sorry.. am I so fast..” she stared down the pavement.

“Jessi..” I suddenly said.

“I’ll wait for you, don’t worry.. whatever decision you make... I’ll.. accept it..” she smiled at me.

“I-I well, you know I-I was just..” I could feel her grip my hand.

“Waiting f-for you to confess..” I was stuttering.

“Really?” she smirked and I pouted.

“B-But.. I dunno if I.. love you or what.. because... this is.. the first.. time... I ever felt... like this..” I said furthermore.

“But.. I know.. I like you.” I now placed my hand over hers.

“T-Thanks..” she smiled.

“I didn’t expect that..” she answered.

“But I, well, I seem to think.. I’m too obvious.. like what Taeyeon always say..” I smiled.

“I guess so..”

“But I’m not.. expecting.. I’m afraid of the rejection.. but I can’t.. control myself anymore.. it just keeps on going stronger... I’m afraid if I don’t tell you, I’ll explode and I’ll end up, taking advantage of you.” she admitted furthermore.

Her words left me melting like an ice cream on a summer day.

“No...” I’m trying to find the right word to say.

“You’re just surprising me with holding hands and locking arms with me...” I smiled again.

“I’ll stop doing it if it makes you uncomfor---“

“Don’t” I said.

“If I didn’t like it, I won’t be tolerating it from the start...”

Because I liked it...

“Oh..” she smiled back at me, the sun was now reflected on her eyes. The rays of the sun were streaming down her beautiful blonde hair. And I know from this day on, I could stare at her like this forever.

“So..” I uttered.

“W-What are we....?” I looked at her and she bit her lip again.

What am I thinking? Now asking her of something I don’t know what to do. @____@

“What do you want...?” she softly asked.

“I-I don’t know..” I laughed.

“I’m happy like this... so..”

“We'll just stay like this...” she glanced at the rooftop’s door and back at me.

“N-No.” I suddenly blurted out. I don’t even know what I want, why did I say ‘no’?

Oh man, Tiffany, what d’you want?? Why am I talking without thinking?

And Jessi stared at me, waiting for me to continue.

“L-lo...” I tried to say.

“Lovers...?” she repeated the words that made me blush and making me hear Taeyeon’s bewitched laugh inside my ears.

I nodded shyly.

She suddenly placed the Tupperware and plastic cups inside the plastic. She stood up and I stood up too. Her face was not expressing anything.

Ugh.

“I think everyone’s waiting for us downstairs...” Jessi then started to walk while I left frozen in my place.

She’s not ready yet..... ?

I felt a pang of melancholy hit me.

But I thought......

“Let’s go...” she stopped while holding the knob and looked back at me.

“My girlfriend..” she smiled at me and reached for my hand.

I was caught off guard.

And I could feel the heat on my cheeks rising yet again.

“My girlfriend.”

I’m yours.... Jessi...

I was carried away with everything she said. I knew it. I am falling in the spell of her charms even more.

13 First Kiss

Thump-thump-thump.

I put my hand on my chest. I still haven’t asked Jessica about the secret. Ugh, I just kept on staring at her or holding her hand whenever we’re together. Because I still can’t believe it. :3 It’s like I’m in a dream all along.

Thump-thump-thump.

I looked at her then she looked and smiled at me. I too, smiled. What a fascinating sight! Those eyes glowing before me~ How I wish I could just ditch classes and stare at them all day long. Heeh. It has been a week since Jessi and I started our ‘relationship’. Though it’s annoying that Taeyeon and Yuri never, as in never ever, stop teasing since the day I’ve told them about us. And I wish Taeyeon and Yuri end up together so that I and Jessi could revenge, but that would be impossible for all they know, all they see and all they talked about is Sooyoung. Oh, speaking of Sooyoung-- I still can’t get over the cucumber incident!!! Haha, it’s just so hilarious!!! I wonder if I should tell Taeyeon or Yuri about it?????

Should I?

A smirk was suddenly taking place into my lips. Heeh.

“Hey Jeti!!!!” I heard Taeyeon put her hands on our shoulders. (Jessica and mine)

“Here, here.” Taeyeon gave me a blank sheet of typewriting paper.

“What’s that for?” I asked her skeptically as I my eyes linger on the typewriting.

“We should do a schedule!” She raised her hands after putting the paper on my desk.

“Schedule?” I looked at Jessi who was plain bored while her hand supported her chin. Her gaze never left me as I looked back at Taeyeon.

“Look, you should have time management!” She grinned at me.

“Time management about what?” Huh? What is shorty talking about? I can handle time well, even though I always end up cramming or procrastinating, I finish everything!!

Taeyeon cleared her throat and looked at Jessica.

“Separate girlfriend time to bestfriend time. Hehe.” She grinned at me.

“Not unless you want Jessica beside you 24/7???!” she put her hand on her waist and pouted.

“Huh? Should I really need that?” I asked her, confused.

“I mean we go home, the three of us together. So what’s the point?” I asked her further because I don’t really get her point.

“But you should have solo time with yer girlfriend, ayt?” She leaned closer at me while whispering.

“...You two alone together... Yuri and me not bugging you... you want that righhhtttt..?” she whispered further and I could tell a smirk was taking place on her lips as she said them. I covered my face with the book lying on my desk, trying to hide my reddened face.

But seriously?! When we’re together, we just hold hands or we just talk!! We haven’t even kissed---

Wait, now that I think of it, it has been a week and nothing, even a kiss on a cheek?! I couldn’t even remember Jessica kissing me on my cheek— But Jessi embraced me, yes she did. But only once. ONCE?!!! WTF!!!!!!!! >,< And that happened one week ago at the rooftop.

Something’s wrong!!! Oh no.

Is it important in a relationship? Ehhhhhhhh~ kissing????

But you were dreaming about that Fany, kissing her, right??Ooohhh those lipssss, Fanyyyyyy. Think about thoseee small pinkkk lippssss~ *Fany could see Jessica dancing seductively in front of her*

I slapped myself in my mind.

I’ll just wait. I don’t want to initiate. Jessi might think I’m a kisswhore. @____@ And both of us would break up~ NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!! I dun want that.

“Fany!!!” Taeyeon rolled her eyes.

“Are you even listening?” She rolled her eyes again.

“Huh?”

“I said Monday, Wednesday and Friday are bestfriend days~ and Tuesday, Thursday and your weekends are all for Jessica.” Taeyeon looked at Jessica and smiled.

“You agree with this Jessica?” Taeyeon asked for her opinion and she just nodded. Why on earth should Jessica agree with Tae’s schemes? @___@ I guess I’ll never understand that.

I looked at Jessica and still wondered about our kiss. Will we ever kiss.....? >,<

How about you ask her about that damn secret first, right?? All readers are waiting for it to be revealed!! You’re taking long Fany, DUH!!! What if they discontinue reading this fanfic because you’re being a turtle?? Pfff.

Oyea, right! Sorry readers!!! >___<

“Jessica agreed so you must agree too, Fany.” Taeyeon insisted.

“All right, all right!!” I said defeated. SHORTY WINS AGAIN.

“It’s a good thing we didn’t win the ‘Best Booth Award’.” Yuri suddenly popped out of nowhere, and a headband was tied on her hair with the words, ‘SOOYOUNGSTER <3’ in red bold letters.

“You’re bad.” I answered her.

Our adviser hasn’t been going to school for one week now because we didn’t win the award. That’s how much he loves the ‘school year supply of pudding’ prize. He could just buy boxes of pudding in a grocery store if he wants, right!!!! >_<

But it’s not free. .__.

But was that a valid reason for him to not teach his students? O_O

Anyway, all of us were getting bored. No homeroom because we don’t have our adviser, I guess we’ll just spend the time loitering on the corridors or eat again at the cafeteria.

“Let’s go to the cafeteria!! Yay!!” Yuri suddenly said, ignoring that I just called her ‘bad’ a while ago.

“I wanna eat again!!” she continued.

“Really? Or you just wanna stalk Sooyoung~unni??” Taeyeon sounded pissed.

“Not.” Yuri frowned.

“Oh by the way about Sooyoung---“ Both of the two girls looked at me.

Jessica suddenly pulled me closer to her.

“What if you would be the reason for the destruction of SYFC!” Jessica whispered to me and she was right. I don’t want to be the ‘destroyer’! But it’s really funny (that cucumby incident XD) so I am still thinking twice over it. Hihi.

Maybe I’ll tell it to them on other days, not now(?).

As I looked back at Yuri and Taeyeon, they were already giggling. I thought awhile ago, they would end up quarreling because Yuri was ‘stalking’ Choi but again, they end up going along together. Weirdos!

“What are you giggling at?” I tried to peep in between them as they watched something on Yuri’s camera.

“Oh, your camera could record videos too?” I asked to no one.

“Shut up Fany, we’re watching.” Taeyeon said annoyingly.

“Let me watch it too!” I insisted.

But they kept on giggling, their heads blocking my view. Ugh, these two! Just what is so funny!!!

“Let me! Let me!!” I insisted again, pushing both of them away to get myself a better view.

“So adorkable~” Taeyeon suddenly put her hands on her cheeks.

Oh gosh, I know who’s in the video.

“Is that Sooyoung?” I asked instinctively and Yuri nodded.

“What’s that, basketball game?”

“Nah.” Yuri suddenly giggled again, ignoring me. FUUUUU.

“Ugh!!” I groaned. I wanna see it even though I’m not a Sooyoung fan!! I wanna see it because they are laughing so it must be funny, right?

“Here, here!!” Tayeon pushed the camera near my eyes.

‘What are you doing!!!” I said irritatingly.

“Making you watch it?” Taeyeon looked at me innocently. Man, what a pain in the neck!

I looked at the camera and what the....? It’s Sooyoung.

Sooyoung, eating the cucumber that fell down from the rooftop.

“How did you---” I trailed off.

“’Cause Yuri’s the greatest stalker.” Taeyeon smirked at me as she praised Yuri by tapping her back continuously.

“Sooyoung~unni is just so adorraable and cuteee, now I think I know what to give her for Christmas! I’ll just give her a cucumber-shaped Sooyoung!” Taeyeon beamed while still staring at the video.

“How about spell her name using cucumbers?” Yuri offered and they high-fived.

“And I think if I sell this very limited edition video, I would get rich.” Yuri’s eyes sparked and they spelled money.

And the two kept on replaying the video over and over again, Sooyoung’s face emitting that of like, “I’m innocent and what’s wrong with eating a cucumber from heaven?” and “No one’s is looking so it’s only natural.”. Isn’t that supposed to be a turn-off? O_O Just what the hell did Sooyoung do to her fangirls?! And so I found myself ducking away from them, Jessica’s hands reaching mine.

“Let’s get away.” I heard her say gently and we did.

We exited the room and found ourselves enjoying the perfect view from the rooftop again. Jessica was still holding my hand while she was looking at the serene ambiance emitted by the weather. Not too hot, not too cold. And I guess this is our favourite place in the campus.

“Jessi..” I suddenly uttered and she looked at me with pleased eyes.

“Repeat it.” She commanded.

“What?” I suddenly got puzzled.

“Say my name again.”

“Jessi..”

“I don’t know but it sounded different when it’s you saying it..” She smiled at me and tucked her blonde hair in her ear.

I think I’m melting.

I can’t even say a word. And I’ll never know why is it that even if Jessica is already my girlfriend, I still can’t believe and can’t get used to this reality.

*snap*

“What is it, Fany?” She pulled me back to reality by squeezing my hand.

“I want.. to ask you something..”

“What is it?” Her eyes fixed on mine.

“About a...” I suddenly think of the appropriate word.

“..ah...” she was waiting.

“ah, well.. ahmm..” Why can’t I just ask it straight-forwardly? O_O

“The secret..” She just stared at me and looked at me blankly.

I guess I’m just too vague! >,<

“Taeyeon...” I started again and glanced around, hoping that I could find the right words in the corners of the place.

“Taeyeon said you and she...” I looked at her now, tracing her jaws and lips with my eyes.

“Have a...” Her gaze didn’t leave me. She just listened.

“Secret.” I finally said it.

After freaking 843085435023948534098534x seconds. XD

She glanced away until all I could hear was our breathing.

Don’t tell me she won’t tell it to me????????????????? @___@

She looked back at me, her fingers twirling her hair and her eyes looking at me with.................. I don’t know how to describe it.

“Where’s your pink pen?” She suddenly asked.

“W-Waa..” I trailed off.

“Your pink pen.” She repeated.

I hurriedly stride my hand onto my pockets to get my pink pen. Maybe she wanted to write it? I guess so, because it’s a secret and so that no one would know but the two of us. :”>

“Here.” I gave her my pink pen and she just stared at it.

“Oh, I don’t have paper.” She stared at me while I looked at her puzzlingly.

Why the blank face. T_______T

Does she hate me now or what?!

“Look, Fany~ah.” She uttered and I stared at her.

She sighed.

“The secret is something you still don’t know until now??” She asked me, she sounded quite disappointed and I shook my head.

“Are you really that dense?” She said coyly.

“Uh..” Everyone agree so I just have to agree myself eh?

“Good thing you keep that pen and the ink is still intact.” She continued.

“If not, you’ll throw it, right?”

WHAT?? I don’t understand her! >,< Seriously, why is she so, so, so concerned with the pen given to me by Taeyeon?!

“Have you tried opening it?” She suddenly asked and I shook my head.

“Okay, I think I’ll have to confess something.” She walked closer to me and I was left, frozen on my place.

THINK FANY.

BLANK.

“Fany~ah..” She said sweetly and my heart was already pounding really fast.

“That pen was not given to you by Taeyeon..” She continued and I tried to make a sound.

“I... well I was the one who gave that to you...” She looked at me intently into my eyes.

“But why did---“

“Because I asked her to give it to you.” She sighed.

“I was afraid you would not accept it if it wasn’t Taeyeon...”

“I noticed that well, if it was Taeyeon...”

I suddenly embraced her. And I don’t know why. I suddenly felt her hands on my waist.

So this is what the secret is all about. @,@ It’s not that surprising at all!!! I AM NOT AMUSED >:[ Taeyeon kept this to me all along. Only this small secret. Fuuuuu!

“There’s one more thing..” She said when we parted.

“Open it.”

“Open the pen.” And I did.

What I found was a paper coiled into the ink tube of the pen.

“It’s old already. Four years old and you still haven’t discovered it.” Jessica said as she eyed the paper.

“Unfold it.” And I did.

I stared at the now yellowish paper. As I unwrap it, the words, “I am waiting for you –Jessica’ caught my eye. I looked at her and she was staring back at me. She has been loving me for this long? Too long... and I... I just discovered this now. And what more, I just noticed her now. >,<

I AM REALLY DENSEFANY. @___@

I looked at her again. And all I could do was to stare when she leaned forward.

“May I...” She suddenly talked.

“May I kiss you?” Her dark eyes pierced mine.

Her words just sank in.

She was asking for a kiss. A KISS. OH. MY. GOD. I was flailing inside, literally. And I don’t know how to react.

My mouth was left opening for awhile. I could feel my lips drying out already. How to...?

“But... I ... I don’t know how to.. kiss..” I suddenly said and she chuckled.

“But.. may I?” She asked again and I shut my eyes close.

I closed them hard that I don’t know what would happen. I desired for a kiss inside when I don’t know how to kiss. (Okay, stupid isn’t it?) Then after awhile, I could feel her breaths on my cheeks. Her hand was on my arm. I closed my eyes harder. The feeling was overwhelming that I don’t know how to describe it, the touch of her hand on my arm tingles me inside. Until, I felt her lips touch mine.

OH MY----

I felt her lips, her lips that smelled like strawberries. Her soft, moist lips, they were on mine and.. and I can’t believe it. I stiffened, I hadn’t move even a bit, I just stood there, feeling her lips while my eyes were shut. Her hands were on my waist, her fingertips electrifying me.

Then her taste left mine and I slowly opened my eyes. Staring at her, she was looking down the pavement, her cheeks flushing red. I tried to speak but I ended up putting my hands on my cheek as I try to alleviate the heat.

We were both blushing.

“It.. it was..” She suddenly spoke and I looked at her observantly and she looked back. I found myself looking away a bit. Gosh, I was so shy. What had just happened?

“It was my first time too.” She finally confessed and we stared at each other.

Then we both giggled shyly until someone came in, running and yelling. A dwarf was RUINING THE MOMENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What the hella you shorty, micro-organism, tiny Taeyeon!!!!! >,<

“JETTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Taeyeon’s voice suddenly echoed all around the rooftop.

And Jessica and I looked at her blankly.

“Ooh, sorry..” Taeyeon said teasingly as her eyes fixed towards Jessica’s hands on my waist and Jessica removed them, putting them behind her back.

“What?” I tried to be calm.

“Anyway, you already know about the secret?” She glanced at Jessica and me with a smirk.

“Yes.” I said.

Then Taeyeon suddenly poked Jessica hard on her cheek.

“Ouch!!” Jessica said irritatingly as her hand caressed her cheek and I glared at Taeyeon.

“Heeehhh Jessicaaaaa, you little sweetttt girlfrienddd!!” Taeyeon further teased and Jessica just looked away, while furrowing her eyebrows. I smiled awkwardly though.

Sweet. :”>

“Oh by the way Jeti, sorry to disturb you but..” She grinned at us and got a paper from her pocket.

“Today is Friday!! So, it is bestfriend day!!!” She beamed at us and Jessica just looked at her with her poker face.

“Hey Jessica.” Taeyeon poked Jessica again and my girlfriend yanked her hand away.

“Yea, Taeyeon bring home Fany now.” Jessica said and she smiled at me and I suddenly blushed.

I can’t get the kiss out of my head.

I guess first times stick into your mind like that.

Oh, Fany you just had a kiss. Your first kiss~ nyaaaaa~

I was spazzing inside that I really felt like I had been hypnotized. And after awhile, I just realized that I was still holding the paper. I recoil it on the ink tube and kept the pen. I smiled at Jessica and she smiled sweetly.

“Hoo~ ambiance is getting romantic again.” Taeyeon fanned herself with her hands and I slapped her lightly.

“Let’s go Taeyeon.” I said as I waved goodbye to Jessica. She waved back at me and stared at us as we disappeared from the rooftop’s door.

WHY DID I EVEN AGREE ON THE SCHEDULE?! Now, I won’t be going home with Jessica. .___.

I sulked.

“Fany! It’s just three minutes since you and Jessica met and you’re getting lonely already?” She frowned at me.

“Eh?” I uttered.

“You know, the secret in a relationship is to starve yourself with the other’s presence.” She winked at me. Like Taeyeon had ever gotten into a relationship! DUH, she didn’t even have any lover!!! Look who’s talking, I-am-expert-in-love-even-if-I-haven’t-been-in-love Taeyeon.

“Anyway, what happened at the rooftop?” She smirked at me.

“I asked her about the secret.” I tried to act innocent.

“Just that, huh?” She elbowed me.

“Y-Yea..” I tried to lie.

“Really? Why her hands on your waist.” Oh man, I can’t even--- I don’t even know why Taeyeon keeps on interrogating me over certain matters. >,< And I end up spilling to her everything! Every detail!!

“We just kissed!!!” I said after giving up with the way she stared at me.

“Congratulations!!” She opened her eyes widely and hugged me. I hugged her back.

“I didn’t know Jessi has been waiting for me.. that long...” I uttered and she sighed.

“And you knew it from the start!!!” I said irritatingly at her and she just answered me with a laugh.

“Fany~ah, what’s the feeling?” She suddenly asked me.

“Huh?”

“Being in love?” She continued.

“Indescribable..” I admitted.

“I hope to be in love too.” Taeyeon stared at the clouds travelling on the peaceful sky.

“I think I’m in love with Sooyoung~unni..” She looked at me and her faced painted that of worry.

“Oh no. That’s not good.” My eyes widened.

“Yeah I know..” She sighed.

“Maybe you’re just fangirling?” I offered her.

“No...” She pouted.

“I am getting jealous with the attention Yuri is getting from her..” She kicked a small stone away as we walked.

“But.. Sooyoung is for everyone..” I tried to calm her down.

“Yeah.. but I always feel shy and tongue-tied every time Sooyoung~unni would try to talk to me..” She frowned.

“Not good.” I said and she nodded.

I tapped her on the shoulder.

“It would be all right.” I comforted her.

“I should control my feelings.”

“But.. that’s hard...”

“It’s impossible though, Fany..” Taeyeon was looking at me.

“Impossible that we would end up.. together..”

“Too many fangirls, too much fame... Sooyoung has it.... and there is news that came out that she already have a girlfriend.. but she won’t admit it to the fans club..” She tried to act like she’s not affected but I could tell she is.

“Oh no, she’s gay. I’m gay, Jessica’s gay, you’re gay too?” I suddenly asked, hysterically.

“Everyone here is gay! Get over it.” She looked at me irritatingly like I don’t know anything in the world.

“Yea, right.. but what if my mother discover it... I’m a little bit afraid..”

“Keep it.” I nodded while processing her words. ‘Keep it.’

Suddenly my phone rang.

Doodooroodooodoodooo kissing you baby~ Doodooroodoodoodoo loving you baby~

Taeyeon rolled her eyes at my ringing tone. So I hurriedly answered the call.

“Hello? Tiffany speaking.” I asked.

“This is Jessi.” She said before clearing her throat.

“Jessi!!” I sounded excited, this is our first ever phone conversation! :D Yay!

“Uh, see you tomorrow okay? 9o’clock am, I’ll be there at your house.”

“Okay but---“ The other line went dead and Taeyeon was giggling beside me.

“What?” I eyed her annoyingly.

“Jessica doesn’t know how to do a decent phone call.” She was clapping her hands while laughing.

“Considering she’s asking you for a date!” She continued to laugh.

“What?” I tried to process everything.

“Oh Tiffany, denser than ice.” She shook her head.

“Big, big problem. I’ll help you out tomorrow on your date to be the prettiest.” Taeyeon smirked at me as we continued to walk home.

So tomorrow would be our first ever date?! WHATTT?! I’m not even--- I mean it’s just so sudden, after the kiss then now we’re going on a date?! Am I really a first year high school student?! And that call was just so, so not like asking someone for a date. O_O I personally think, Jessica doesn’t know how to ask someone for a date. What the heck. Both of us are inexperienced.

Inexperienced beings.

And I could imagine Taeyeon laughing wickedly in front of us while pointing her finger at us and telling us how inexperience we are.

“INEXPERIENCED BEINGSSS!!!” Taeyeon was laughing in my mind like a witch while wearing a black gown.

I drank my milk which was resting on my study table to shake away my thoughts of WitchTaeyeon. As I took a sip, I suddenly found myself blushing. Why did this taste like strawberry?! Jessi’s lips are still lingering on mine. Then I looked at the bottle.

It read, “Strawberry Flavoured Yogurt.”

I narrowed my eyes towards the intimidating bottle and continued to blush.

14 First Date

This pink one or that pink one?

I laid all my pink clothes on my bed, picking and trying each one of them but still to no avail. It’s hard to decide!!! And I’ve only got thirty minutes until Jessi arrives. THIRTY MINUTES, oh man, panic!!! Where the hell is Taeyeon? She said she would help me but I kept on calling her but she didn’t even bothe---

“Fany!! Sorry!!!” Taeyeon suddenly burst inside my room.

Goodness!! >___<

“UGH!! C’mon help me!! Don’t just stand there!!” I said while panicking.

Taeyeon eyed my bed and sighed.

"Fany!!! Haven’t you got any clothes except for pink clothes???!!” She rolled her eyes and I pulled her arm hard making her fall on the bed.

“Pick one for me!!!!” I said hysterically.

“How could I pick one?! I am buried here in your pile of pink clothes!!!” She yelled while her head and face were covered with tons of pink materials.

“Oh, sorry!!” I pulled her again so that she could stand up.

“Oh my goodness!!!” She said while removing some of the clothes on her body.

“I’ve only got thirty minutes!!!! Help me!!” I said while I opened my cabinet.

“Should you really wear pink today??” Taeyeon talked as she moved her hand on my clothes inside the cabinet, as if searching for something.

“Uhm, I guess?” I said and she sighed.

"How about your hair?? Just like that??” She raised an eyebrow.

Oh man!! I forgot I haven’t brushed my hair yet!!!! @_______@

I staggered along the pink clothes on the floor and searched for my brush.

“My brush is nowhere to be found!!” I panicked further.

“Fany!!! The brush is on your hair!!!!” Taeyeon sighed more.

I pulled the brush on my hair. OUCH!!!

God, it won’t leave my hair!!

“Tae~!!! Help me!! My brush!!! It—It---- uhhh!!!” I tried pulling the brush out of my hair.

“I’ve only got fifteen more minutes!!!!” I added while I still try to remove the brush that has been coiled on my hair.

“Tiffany!! It won’t--- leave---your----hair!!” Taeyeon and I tried pulling the brush together.

“Should we cut your hair?” She suggested with worried eyes.

“NO!!! I’ll just postpone the date!!” I sulked on the corner of my bed.

I’ve still got nothing to wear!! And what more, this brush got stuck on my hair!!! T_____T Why is this happening now? >___< Taeyeon then approached me and I could feel her hands doing something on my hair. After a while I could see a smile creeping on her lips.

“Ta-da!!” Taeyeon put the brush in front of my face.

“I had removed it already!!” She said as if she won the lottery. Thank God for having Tae as a best friend~

“How did you??” My eyes widened.

“Because we’re pulling it the wrong way!!”

“Thank you Tae~ you really are my best friend!!” I embraced her.

“My head hurts though.” I sighed.

“Tiffany!! You only got ten minutes!! Quick! Quick!!” Taeyeon ran towards my cabinet and got a light pink polo, matched it with my greyish short jumper and hurriedly went downstairs to get my white Converse high cut sneakers.

“Quick!! Get change!!!” She threw the clothes and shoes inside my room before slamming the door. I hurriedly put them on me, not even caring how my hair looks like, man I should not keep Jessica waiting!!! >___<

“You finish already??” Taeyeon yelled on the other side of the door.

“It’s time already!!!!” She yelled more.

“I’m coming!!” I opened the door and Taeyeon smirked at me.

“Perfect!!” She said while smirking at me.

“Is she there already?” I glanced downstairs.

“Not yet, not yet!! Let me fix your hair!! C’mon!!” She pushed me inside the room.

Doodooroodooodoodoo kissing you baby~ Doodooroodoodoodoo loving you baby~

“For once Fany, change your ring tone!!” She rolled her eyes as I hog my phone inside the pile of clothes on my bed.

“Hello, Tiffany here?” I glanced at Taeyeon.

“This is your Jessi, I would be late. I’m sorry, I overslept. Please wait for me!! I’ll be there after thirty minutes!” Jessica sounded apologetic and worried at the same time.

“It’s all right, I would be waiting.” I happily replied.

I still have time to fix my hair~ Nyaaa~

“Okay, bye.” She hung the phone.

I glanced at Tae and smiled at her.

“Does Jessica even know how to say ‘I love you’?” She rolled her eyes AGAIN.

“Fix my hair!!” I changed the subject.

Oh right!!!!!! >__< She didn’t say ‘I love you’ to me again ever since she confessed. @____@ Don’t panic Tiffany, it’s not much of a big deal right? You could feel her love, so don’t worry, right, right?!! She’s taking you on a date today! Don’t be affected by what Shorty’s talking about.

After about twenty minutes, at last I’m ready for the date~ I got my headphone and stuck it on my ears while waiting for my girlfriend to arrive. I’m feeling nervous, really.

“Pose!!” Taeyeon suddenly brought out her camera and I posed.

“Does your mother know?”

“What?” I said while dancing to one of the songs.

“DOES YOUR MOTHER KNOW?” she yelled at me and I got the headphone out of my head to shush her.

“Of course not!” I whispered annoyingly.

“What would you say if she asked you?”

“Uhm, going out with you?” I smiled awkwardly.

“All right, by the way change your ring tone!!” She said.

“Why do you keep on insisting that? I don’t want!” I frowned.

“That’s your ring tone ever since you had a phone! Aren’t you tired of it?” She frowned at me too.

“No.” I said.

“You should change that with this!!” Taeyeon stood up and got her phone inside her pockets, turning it into full volume.

“Sowoneul malhaebwa!!!! I’m genie for you boy!!” And she started dancing.

Crazy. @___@

I felt the need to peep on my window and I did, just in time, Jessi was already there at the gate. She was wearing---

Wait, she is speaking with my mother. JESSI IS SPEAKING WITH MY MOTHER!!!

I quickly stood up, and hurriedly went downstairs, ignoring Taeyeon who just stopped dancing when she saw Jessica too.

“Erm..” I smiled awkwardly while my mother glanced back at me.

“Oh, Tiff is already here!” My mother smiled.

“Why haven’t you introduced me to Jessica?” She shifted her eyes from me to Jessica.

“Err... it’s because uhh..” I am stuttering. >___< What if mother knew or what if she figure it out already?? @____@

“Fany didn’t have the right time to introduce me to you because we’re busy as class representatives.” Jessi said coolly, covering for me.

“Yea.” I nodded awkwardly.

“Oh I see, Jessica said that you two would go buying some stuff for gardening. You two are so responsible.” Mother proudly.

STUFF FOR GARDENING?? But we’re going on a date right---- oh Jessi was just covering. Heeh.

“Yep.” Taeyeon popped out of nowhere while smiling maliciously at us.

BE PREPARED TINY TAEYEON WHEN I GOT BACK HOME!!! GRRR. >:[

"Uhm, so I think we should go now...” I smiled awkwardly at my mum again.

“Okay then, take care you guys. Have fun!” Mother smiled at Jessi.

“Bye, auntie.” Jessi smiled back at my mother and my eyes widened.

SHE JUST CALLED MY MOTHER, AUNTIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And my mother didn’t mind. :3

I just noticed now that Jessi didn’t bring her bicycle. So where are we going.....?

As soon as we can’t see my house in view, we walked hand in hand. Suddenly, Jessi stopped and I stopped too. I thought I would trip myself because it’s so sudden and I daydreaming of what will happen today.

“Uhh..” I uttered shyly.

Why am I still being so shy........

“You.. well you..” Jessi faced me and she is just wearing grey sweat pants and blue shirt printed with....

My eyes widened as I digest what is printed on her shirt. Her shirt says, “I ♥ →”(!) And now that I think deeply of it, that is why TinyTae was smiling maliciously over us!!! When I was beside Jessi awhile ago, the arrow on the shirt was pointing at me. And mum was there....... no, no, no... she couldn’t have think like that! It’s just a shirt, right?

I calmed myself and stared at Jessi whose face looked at me blankly and I smiled.

“Fany..” She started to talk again and I just stared at her.

“Those clothes..” She looked down the pavement and stared at me again. I am blushing.

“They look good on you..” And she smiled.

“Yours.. too..” I blushed at the sight of her shirt.

“I.. I just stopped to tell you that..” She stared at me with pleased eyes.

“Thanks..” Then she suddenly embraced me.

I embraced her back. I narrowed my eyes around us. Good thing there are no other people around. @_@

“We’ll go to the amusement park..” She said when we parted.

“Would you like that?”

“Yes.. anywhere, as long as I’m with you..” I said shyly.

“We’ll eat first then..” She smiled at me.

“Yes!” I said happily. I’m thinking of buying tons of pink fluffy cotton candies after eating lunch~

She reached for my hand and we headed for the train station.

~~~

Jessi brought me to a Pizza house. We picked the table which was near the window, what caught my attention was the silky yellow chair and there were frames of pizzas on the wall as well. As I scoot myself closer to the side, I saw the passer-bys as they hurdle along the streets of the city.

“What do you want to order?” Jessi was browsing the menu then looked at me.

“Pizza will do, Jessi.” I smiled at her.

“Pepperoni? Hawaiian?” She smiled back, tucking strands of blonde hair on her ear. That blonde hair~ I wonder how it smells~

“Hawaiian.” I replied.

“Do you want carbonara? Spaghetti?” She offered.

“Carbonara will do and iced tea.” I smiled shyly.

Jessi then called the waiter and told him our orders. After a bit of staring and being awkward because it was both our first times to go on a date, Jessi opened a conversation.

“Uhm, you’re having a good time?” I saw Jessica’s hands nervously shivering on her knees while she’s trying to talk.

“Of course.” I smiled at her, ignoring her nervousness.

“Fany, this is my first time on a date..” She suddenly said.

“Forgive me if I... well, I’ll do my best to make you enjoy it with me..”She smiled shyly.

“Don’t worry, it’s just the start of the day.” I winked at her as the waiter placed our food on the table. I started digging my fork in the carbonara while I could feel Jessi’s eyes on me.

“Hey, eat.” I told her as I take a bite.

“Let me stare at you for a while..” She reached for my left hand, placed it on her cheek and closed her eyes.

“Warm.” She tightened her grasp.

I just stared at her, I was blushing horribly. And I looked around, and there were a group of girls giggling at us so I bowed my head because of shyness.

“You’re blushing.” She grinned at me then let go of my hand.

Why is she this straight-forward? @__@

“Here, taste it.” I placed my fork in front of her mouth to feed her. Anyway, her food is carbonara too so why am I telling her to taste mine? It’s not like my carbonara would taste different from hers. Err.

She opened her mouth and I placed the fork inside.

“Mmmm.” She said while fixing her eyes on me.

“Delicious.”

I smiled shyly and continued eating.

“When will you start eating?” I asked her puzzlingly as she was still staring at me.

“I still can’t believe you’re mine.” She said slowly and gently.

Oh God, so much for the cheesy lines Jessi. Don’t you know you’re making me evaporate now?? Ugh. :”>

“Me too..” I took a sip of my iced tea.

“After five years..” She touched my cheek and I flinched slightly. Her hand is incredibly warm.

“Now, you’re mine.” She finished.

“You’re cheesy!” I started to kid around but her face was all serious. :”>

“Am I?” she smiled awkwardly.

“I’m just telling what’s on my mind.” She held some strands of my hair and gently stared at them.

“Fany..” Then her stomach growled. She laughed lightly and placed a hand on her stomach.

“I told you, you should eat.” I smiled.

“Save your cheesiness at the amusement park. You’re shirt is as cheesy as you.” I chuckled and she smiled at me.

We finished eating and decided to stroll first at the stores aligned with the place of the Pizza house. We enjoyed window-shopping at the clothes and Jessi looked sleepy for a while because I was constantly looking for pink clothes when I told her that I have tons of pink clothes inside my cabinet. Heeh. After about two hours, Jessi and I went to the train station to visit the amusement park.

“Amusement park! Here we come!!!” I opened my arms wide when we were only five feet away from the entrance.

“Mum, what’s happening with unnie?” A small girl suddenly pointed at me and Jessi pulled me towards the entrance to pay for our tickets. Now that I’ve come to think of it, the line is shorter than usual! Yay!!! And talk about embarrassment. @___@

“Oh, crazy-unnie!!” The small girl from before was falling in line too and I smiled awkwardly at her.

“What?” Jessi sounded pissed off and I elbowed her. I then put my hands on my knees and waved at the small girl, her mother was smiling at me too.

“How old are you?” I talked at the small cute girl. Her pink dress is too cute not to be noticed by me. :3

The small girl opened her fingers and started counting, then placing her eight fingers in front of me.

“Wow, so young.” I eye-smiled at her.

“Why is crazy-unnie doing like this.” She too opened her arms wide to do what I did a while ago.

“Crazy-unnie is just so excited to go to the amusement park!” I beamed at her.

“Crazy-unnie will ride the Ferris Wheel too?” She asked innocently.

“Yes, with Jessi-unnie!” I put my arms on Jessi’s shoulder.

“Oh, hi poker faced-unnie!!” The small girl waved at Jessi. Seriously, this small girl is cute but does have a very sharp tongue. @__@ Jessi narrowed her eyes at the girl and I elbowed her again, she looked away and I could tell she’s getting pissed off. I looked at the child’s mum to make sure she hasn’t seen Jessi doing that to her daughter. Good thing she’s not really paying attention to us.

“Crazy-unnie, is poker faced-unnie your best friend?”

“No.” I smiled at her.

She's more special than that..

“Then why are you holding hands?”

OMG, seriously, this child is something! @_____@ She’s straight-forward and very observant for a child.

I then let go of Jessi’s hand and smiled at the child awkwardly.

“She’s my..” Jessi yanked me away and gave me my ticket.

“Stop talking to that annoying child!” Her eyebrows furrowed when we reached an ice cream stand, losing the small girl from view.

“But she’s cute! I can’t resist children.” I pouted.

“But she’s getting into my nerves! Calling me poker---“

“TOTORO!!!!!!” I suddenly jumped and approached the booth with small, medium and large Totoro stuff toys. Jessi lazily walked beside me.

“How much is that?” She asked the man inside the booth.

“We’re not selling those.” The bearded man answered lazily.

“You should shoot these moving plastic mice to be able to win these stuff toys. To get the small stuff toy, you need to shoot four of them, eight will give you the medium sized stuff toy and shoot them all and we’ll give you the biggest.” My eyes sparkled at the sight of a 13-inches Totoro inside the booth. I really want it!! But I’m too shy to tell—

“How much per shoot?” Jessi suddenly brought out her wallet.

“There are 15 mice, so you will be given 15 shots but if you missed three times, you’re dead. 15 shots is 4 dollars.” The bearded man smirked at Jessi.

“Here.” Jessi handed her the money and smiled at me.

The bearded man smirked again at us like we wouldn’t be able to get Totoro. T___T Bad man!!! >__< He got a bow and arrow and gave it to Jessica.

“Tell me if you’re ready.” The man said. @_@ I hate him.

Jessi leaned closer to me.

“Wish me luck babe.” She whispered.

"Good luck, Jessi.” I smiled shyly as she arranged an arrow on the bow.

She pulled the bow lightly and let the arrow go as the mice moved from side to side.

Tsuk.

Shot one was successful and the mouse fell over. The man frowned at this. Jessica continued doing it, she already missed two shots and I was so nervous. There were still remaining three mice. But I would get a medium size Totoro so it’s not that bad after all, right?

I tugged Jessi to tell her that it’s all right ‘cause I would be getting the medium sized Totoro anyway but she looked at me with a blank face and I pouted.

“Toto-sshi for you.” She uttered sweetly and let go an arrow, another mouse fell over.

The man’s eyes widened.

"You should not miss. One more then you are dead.” The bearded-man said.

“I know.” Jessi said calmly.

“You’ve got the medium-sized Totoro now.”

“I want the biggest.” Jessi said coolly at the man.

“If you would get it. If you missed one more, you’ll never be able to claim anything. Claim it now.” The man smirked again.

“What?” I said in annoyance.

“But that’s like cheating us!!”

“That’s the rule here so claim it now.” The man patted the medium-sized Totoro then without a word Jessi let go of the arrow making two mice fell over at once. My jaw dropped! How can she be this good towards almost everything? :”> We looked at each other and smiled.

“Now, the largest Totoro?” Jessi raised an eyebrow and the man pathetically and annoyingly got largest Totoro and carried it towards us.

“Thanks.” Jessi shoot the man with the last arrow she hasn’t used and I giggled. The arrow landed on the man’s forehead.

“You guys!!!” The man shouted as Jessi and I walked away.

“Thank you Jessi!” I beamed at her while hugging my Totoro.

“Anything for you.” She smiled.

“Ice cream?” She offered.

“It’s my turn.” I said while getting my wallet on my pocket but Jessi stopped me.

“No, it’s my treat.” She shook her head and motioned me to sit.

“But..” I tried to argue but she already went towards the ice cream stand, ignoring me.

When she came back she carried two strawberry ice creams. STRAWBERRY!!! I blushed as the feeling of her lips over mine suddenly came over me. As soon as we finished eating, she lead me to the Ferris Wheel. We sat side by side inside, while we stared outside together and she was holding my hand all this time.

“Pretty view.” I exclaimed as the night and day mixes into the sky. The damp and cold weather filling the air as her hand rest on my shoulder.

“You’re prettier.” She smiled at me.

It’s killing me.. :”>

“Really?” I teased her.

“Yup.” She grinned.

“Proof?” I raised a brow. Trying to tease her further. Though I know I'm going nowhere. XD

“Look at me.” She fixed her gaze on mine and I could feel my heart beating fast, my hands being sweaty and my cheeks heating again and again.

“Take a look at me...”

“And you will see how beautiful you are..” She kissed me on the forehead and I froze.

What’s happening ~ I think I am dreaming~ (*u*)

“Is it all right for me to kiss you on the forehead?” Her face suddenly looked innocent.

“You already stole a kiss on my forehead!” I pouted.

“I love your forehead.” She chuckled and placed a hand on my forehead.

“Hey.” I removed it.

“A kiss on the lips?” She offered and I just looked at her like O_O

I still can’t get over about my first kiss then this date is happening then we’ll kiss again. O_O I love to kiss her again but I was just so shocked, I can’t seem to move my body.

She got Totoro which is sitting in front of us and placed it on my lips. I just kissed Totoro. @__@

TOTORO STOLE A KISS FROM ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! >_______<

“You don’t like my kiss, so maybe you like Totoro’s.” She sounded disappointed.

“Eh?” I said defensively and she just looked at me blankly.

“I hate that face!” I looked away, resting my eyes on the clouds travelling onto the sky, a hint of orange sprinkled evenly into the sky because the sun was setting beautifully.

“Hey.” She wrapped her arms around me, embracing me from behind.

“I’m sorry.” She tightened her embrace.

“I’m just kidding you know.”

“I won’t ever make you do things you don’t want to..” She rested her chin on my shoulder and I put my hand on her arms.

“Because I respect you..”

“I know.” I finally said and I see her smile.

“Oh here we go.” She unwrapped her arms around me when the Ferris Wheel stopped moving.

“Where do we go next?” I asked her.

“Roller coaster?” She reached for my hand as we walked out of the Ferris Wheel.

“Crazy-unnie!!!” Suddenly, we saw the small girl from before and Jessi frowned at the sight of her.

“Oi!” I could tell that the little girl was crying. I wonder what happened. The child ran towards us and embraced me.

“Crazy-unnie, I’m lost.” She wiped her eyes.

“My feet are also hurting because I walked everywhere...”

“I got lost and I can’t find my mum.” She buried her face on my waist.

“It’s all right, it’s all right.” I comforted her.

“Crazy-unnie and Jessi-unnie will help you find mum, okay?” I assured her as I pat her on the head.

“Thank you, crazy-unnie!” She embraced me again while crying and I looked at Jessi.

Her face was expressionless.

“Err..” I smiled at Jessica

Jessi looked down on the child.

“Here.” She opened her arms and the child looked at her blankly.

“You said your feet are hurting, let me carry you.” Jessi wasn’t even looking at her and I smiled.

“Thank you poker-faced-unnie.” The child embraced Jessi and she frowned.

Jessi looked at me and turned her back from the child and knelt.

“I’ll carry you on my back.” Jessi uttered and to tell you, I am admiring her more..... How could she be this cool without even trying so hard? :”>

The small girl wrapped her arms on Jessi’s neck and we walked.

“You hungry?” I asked the small girl and she nodded.

“What do you want to eat?”

“Hotdog.” The child suddenly pulled Jessi’s hair.

“What the?!” Jessi said in annoyance.

“Why is your hair yellow poker-face-unnie?”

“’Coz I like it that way. None of your business.”

“But poker-face-unnie smells great!” The child sniffed her.

“And very nice too! I thought she’s not nice!” The girl exclaimed and I smiled at Jessi who just looked away.

“Anyway, we’ll look for the management so that they would contact you mum.” I said and the child nodded.

“What’s your name by the way?” I smiled.

“I am Krystal, crazy-unnie. How about you? And you too poker-face-unnie?” The child put one of her finger on Jessi’s ear making her more annoyed. @__@

“Stop that! You want me to make Totoro eat you??!” Jessi said and the child stopped. Totoro is not a child-eater. T____T

“I am Tiffany and this is Jessica.” I ignored them.

“Tiffany-unnie and Jessica-unnie!” Krystal said and I smiled at her. I’m very fond of this little girl and I don’t even know why. After finding a hotdog stand and making her eat, Jessi carried her again and we looked for the main office of the amusement park.

“You all right Jessi?” I asked her worriedly. I know the child’s not that light.

“Yup.” She smiled at me reassuringly.

When we reached the office, Krystal was already sleeping on Jessica’s back. Jessi looked so cool and I don’t know why, really. :”>

“She looked too tired.” I stared at the child worriedly.

“Her mother must be worried..” I sighed.

“Good evening.” Jessi greeted one of the staff with her expressionless face, making the staff stare at her like: O_O’’

“Uhm, good evening!” I said happily.

“We wonder if we could---“

“Krystal!!!!!!” Krystal’s mother suddenly popped out in front of us.

“Good evening.” Jessi and I bowed our heads.

“Oh, thank you very much for taking care of Krsytal!! She got lost when she insisted to buy cotton candies and I told her it’s bad for her teeth. Thus, she runaway! A very stubborn child!!” The mother frowned as she reached for Krsytal who is peacefully sleeping on Jessica’s back.

“Krystal, wake up.” I gently said.

“We’ve found your mother already.” Krsytal opened her eyes slowly.

“MUM!!!” She wailed and cried as her mother carried her towards her.

“Thank you very much!” The mother bowed at us again.

“What would you say to them Krystal?”

“Thank you so much unnies!!” The child also bowed at us.

“Not a big deal at all.” I smiled at Krystal.

“You should obey your mother okay?” I said to her and she nodded shyly.

Talk about following your parents. @__@ I suddenly think deeply if I am a good daughter to my mum. XD

Krystal and her mother bid us goodbye, she waved at us then she ran towards us again.

“Poker-face-unnie.” Krystal called Jessi’s attention who is looking somewhere else.

“Yea?” Jessi raised an eyebrow.

“I’ll whisper something to you.” Krystal said and I elbowed Jessi to lean towards her.

“Thank you!!” Krsytal kissed her on the cheek and ran to her mother. Her small hands waving at us again, I waved back and Jessi wasn’t waving back.

“Wave!” I told Jessi.

I grabbed her hand and make it wave. When Krystal and her mother vanished from view, I stared at Jessi who was still waving her hand involuntarily.

I giggled.

“What?” She looked at me and dropped her hand down.

“You like her.” I elbowed her.

“I like you more.” She brought her chin up and I elbowed her more, making her lean onto the wall.

“Sorry.” I grinned at her.

“Let me take you home? It’s getting late.” She suddenly said as I embraced Totoro.

“Did you enjoy though? We haven’t ridden anything other than the Ferris Wheel and the caterpillar.” She sounded apologetic.

“Of course! I got Totoro. And we still got plenty of next times.” I hugged it tighter.

“And I saw a side of Jessi that I haven’t seen before.” I winked at her and she looked away.

“You’re blushing, Jessi.” I teased her.

“No, I’m not.”

“Yes, you are.” I teased her further.

“I just have rosy cheeks!”

“You’re stubborn like Krystal.” I giggled.

“No, I’m not.”

“Yes, you are. Certainly.”

“Before we go, let me get you your cotton candy.” She grabbed my hand after she got Totoro from me.

“Eh, aren’t these too much? You paid everything today!!” She pulled me closer.

How could she still be this strong after carrying a child on her back?! Maybe she goes to the gym. *now wild imagination is on* I SLAPPED MYSELF.

“It’s nothing, as long as you’re happy.” She smiled at me.

“Okay, but next time, it’s my turn okay?”

“Promise me? Or else.” I put out my pinky finger.

“Or else?” She just stared at my pinky finger.

“Or else.. errr.. I’ll uhmm.” I furrowed my eyebrows, thinking of a good thing to use for black mailing.

“Or else I’ll put cucumbers on your face!” I told her.

“Okay! You win!!” She rolled her eyes and we continued to walk to buy my desired pinkkkk cotton candy.

Just as we were already buying the cotton candy, a tall girl suddenly embraced Jessi from behind making me took a step backward because of surprised. @______@

YURI??!!

“SICAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” The girl buried her face on my girlfriend’s back.

MY GIRLFRIEND’S BACK!! >_________< Annoying!!!

“UGH!! Get off me!!” Jessi pushed the girl away.

“Hey!!” I yelled as Jessi gave me my cotton candy. I first placed Totoro on the bench.

“SICAA!!!” The girl was persistent, she embraced Jessi again.

“Who are you!!” Jessi pushed the girl again.

“It’s me!!! SICA!!! You don’t remember me?!” I thought the girl was Yuri but she wasn’t. WHO IS THIS FREAKING GIRL?!

Jessi stared at her in shock as the girl pointed on her own face.

“You don’t remember me Sica????”

“What are you doing here?” Jessi sounded mortified.

“Oh hello there!!” the girl waved at me.

“You are?” She suddenly asked me and Jessi pulled her on the arms.

“Wait, wait, what are you doing here??” Jessi insisted.

“I went back.” The girl said innocently.

“Oh by the way, I am Im Yoona. Sica’s childhood friend.” The girl grabbed my hand and shook it. For a moment, I can’t react because I don’t know what’s really happening. >___<

“Uhh..” Jessi stared at me and I looked at her blankly.

“You are?” This Yoona asked me again.

“I’m Hwang Tiffany.” I finally said.

“OH!! Tiffany!!! Jessica always tells about you when we were young! I bet you’re my Sica’s friend?” She asked me.

‘MY SICA’S FRIEND’?!!! ‘MY Sica’?!!!!! >:[ I could already feel my blood boiling but I tried to be as calm as possible, hiding my fury.

“No more than that.” I answered her proudly.

“Oh.” She glanced at Jessi who was frozen on her place.

“You still remember Sica when we play together?” She locked her arms with Jessi.

WTF!!! THIS GIRL IS SERIOUSLYY GETTIN’ INTO MY NERVESS!!!

“I still remember when I try to feed you~ and remove cucumbers on your food~” She stared at Jessi like I wasn’t there and what more, what Jessi did is to nod her head slowly!!!!!! >___<

“Sica~ah..” The Yoona girl said seductively and I can’t contain it anymore.

“Could you please stop? Jessi is my---“

“I’m transferring into your school next week~” She put her head on Jessi’s shoulder. ON MY JESSI’S SHOULDER!!!!!!!!!!!! >___<

“Wait, Yoona. Jessi has already---“

“Sica.... don’t you miss me?” She put her hand on Jessi’s waist. ON MY JESSI’S WAIST!! >__<

I acted on impulse and removed her hand.

“What are you doing?” She frowned at me.

“Removing your hand from my girlf------“

“Fany...” Jessi looked at me blankly.

WHUT?!

I’m getting more and more jealous. >__<

Suddenly another girl emerged from view and she was wearing dark shades and her hair was red.

“Let’s go, Yoona.” The girl said with a very low voice, grabbing Yoona’s hand and I stared at the girl.

“I think I know you.” I uttered as I stared at girl.

“Your wig baby S—“ The girl suddenly put her hand on Yoona’s mouth.

“We have to go, hehehe.” The girl suddenly took steps backward and ran away, vanishing from our view.

“I know her, where did I see her?” I talked to myself when Jessi caught my view.

“I’m going home.” I told her.

“Wait, I could explain---“

“I don’t need your explanation. You like her more than me!!!!!”

“Go and make that Yoona your girlfriend now!! You like her right, it’s just so obvious! You don’t need to tell it straight to my face!! And what more, she’s your childhood friend while me?! I just came into your life! I don’t know that much about you unlike her!!! Go and make her feed you and remove cucumbers on your food!!”

“It’s not what you---“

I grabbed Totoro who was sitting on the bench and threw it at her. I walked away.

“Fany!!!” I heard her and her foot steps on my back.

“LEAVE ME ALONE!!! I HATE YOU!!!” I ran away, as fast as I could.

I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!! I HATE JESSI!!

I whispered it to myself a thousand times!!! GRRRRRRRR!!

And as the place became darker, I could feel my eyes getting wet.

Doodooroodoodoodoo kissing you baby~ Doodooroodoodoodoo loving you baby~

Damn it!!! I turned my phone off.

*Bump*

“Ouch!” I placed my hand on my forehead and saw Yuri and Taeyeon in front of me.

“Hehe, hallo Fany!” They both said in unison.

"YOU TWO!!!” I slapped both of them. Seriously, they were stalking Jessi and me on our first date!! WTH!!!

Then I suddenly cried. Both of them saw what happened.

“Huwaaa!” I cried harder.

“She’s a liar!!” I buried myself on their arms.

“It’s okay, it’s okay! Maybe you’re just mistaken!” Taeyeon told me.

“But she told me to stop!! And that damn ugly Yoona is already seducing her!!!!” I said in annoyance as my tears flow.

“You should have listened to her first, let her explain.” Yuri continued to comfort me.

“MY TOTORO!!!” I suddenly whined.

“O God Fany, is Totoro more important than Jessi?”

“Don’t mention her name!!!” I looked away.

“I’ll wait for her to chase me!! If she really loves me, she would apologize!!” I said stubbornly.

“Ugh, Fany!”

“A little bit of fight and misunderstanding is healthy in a relationship.” Taeyeon tapped me on the shoulder.

“But we’ve just been together for about two weeks!! And there’s already a third party!!” I argued.

“That Yoona is a friend, you are her girlfriend.” Taeyeon insisted her point and I could see Yuri nodded like a bulldozer again. @___@

I wiped my eyes as the two walked me back home. Hmp.

“You know what Fany, that girl who was in dark shades and on red wig looked familiar to us too.”

“You two should stop stalking us!! Okay?” I said to them, annoyed.

“Sorry, we can’t help it!!” Tae grinned at me.

“And I know you guys would make up.” She winked at me and I ignored her.

"Yea, yea, you two really looked sweet awhile ago~” Yuri added.

“Anyway, that girl really looked familiar..” Ignoring her compliment at how Jessi and I looked like awhile ago.

Who is that girl? And seriously I just found Yuri’s face annoying because it reminds me of Yoona’s face!!! They look like twins!! AND I HATEEEE ITTTT!!!

And about Jessi, I DON’T FREAKING CARE!!! HMP!!! >__________<

MY THIRTEEN-INCH TOTORO!!!!! T_______________T I never should have thrown that to Jessi. T_________T

Man. I turned my phone on.

Doodooroodoodoodoo kissing you baby~ Doodooroodoodoodoo loving you baby~

15 First Porridge

Doodooroodoodoodoo kissing you baby~ doodooroodoodoodoo loving you baby~

“UGH! So persistent!!” I buried my phone inside the pillows so that I would not hear it again. Damn it, it has been three hours and Jessi is constantly calling me. Like I care! >__< I could suddenly hear drops of rain outside, making the sound of the phone disappear in my ears. But again, it started to ring...

Doodooroodoodoodoo kissing you baby----

“What do you want?!! Leave me alone!!” I said as soon as I answered her call.

I hate it and I’m still pissed off about the fact that she let that Yoona go flirty-flirty with her!!! BFFFF!! You deserve this!!! I would be pushing the off button when she suddenly spoke.

“Fany, I’m sorry.. I know I’ve got some explaining to do and I’m here outside your house.”

WHAT?! Did I hear her right?! Outside my house!!!!??

I looked out my window and saw her drenched in the rain. She was looking at me with her puppy-dog eyes, still holding the phone onto her ears.

LIKE I REALLY CARE!!

But she looked sexy~ :3Ugh, I MUSTN’T---

I shook my head, looked at her disgustingly and shut my curtains. I buried myself on the bed and peeped a little on the window, and she’s still there. No~

I.MUST.TORTURE.HER.AND.I.WANT.MY.TOTORO.BACK. I peeped again and noticed that she didn’t bring Totoro.

WHERE IS TOTORO? T________________T

I closed my curtains slowly and lied on my bed. Finding my phone again, I called her and she answered.

“Fany, look I’m sorry. About Yoona, it’s not what you----“

“I don’t want to see your face ever again!!!!” I don’t want to hear the name of that girl again!!! I turned my phone off and placed my face on my pillows.

I thought you’ve loved me that long... but I guess you loved her first? So I am not your first then... but you are my first......... what should I do?? How could I ever get over this? I don’t know what approach to do now, I am confused!! >________<Hmf, drench yourself in the rain!! I DON’T CARE!!!

But she might get sick..

NO! I don’t really care!

I relaxed myself, shaking my thoughts away and trying to sleep but to no avail. That Yoona girl is crawling in my brain and I’m having nightmares!! She was popping on my head and saying, “Your Jessi is minee!!” while wrapping her arms on my Jessi. T______T And Jessi was smiling at me and hugged her back!!!!!!!!!!! I jolted and sat up on my bed when I suddenly heard the birds chirping.

Oh God, it’s already morning!!!

“Tiff! Taeyeon is already downstairs!!” My mother constantly knocked on my door.

“Tell her to... go leave.. I would be late..” I yelled back and I noticed my pillow was wet, oh man, drool? NO!!! EWW. I touched my eyes and I suddenly cried. T______T Poor me!

“You okay dear?”

“Yes.. I’m okay..” I got my tower and wiped my tears off my pretty(!!!!) face. I looked at the mirror and cried again. WHAT IS HAPPENING TO ME?!!!! >____<

“Huwaa~” I wailed.

“Dear? Are you sure??” Mother was still on the other side of the door.

“Mum, I...” I thought of an alibi.

“I just uh bumped my head on the bed rest.” I said and I washed my face then brushed my teeth.

“Okay, I’ll tell Tae to leave ‘cause you’ll be late?” Mum sounded unsure. I continued to brush my teeth as I hear her footsteps down the stairs.

I sighed and I furrowed my eyebrows.

“Jessi,” I told myself and I felt the need to peep on the window.

Was Jessi really here last night, and it was raining?

I closed my curtains again.

I don’t care.

I changed my clothes and got my pink bag.

Yesterday was supposed to be a date.

I shook my head because of anger and erased what is on my calendar, there, written was “My first date with my Jessi ♥”

I looked away and left the house that morning.

When I reached school, our first class was already starting.

“Good morning, Sir.” I greeted our Math teacher.

“Oh, you’re late for your class Miss Hwang.” He stared at me, making him stop from writing some equations on the board.

“Sorry sir.” I bowed my head and glanced at Taeyeon who frowned at me.

“Don’t be late again, please take your seat.” I nodded at him and stared at the unoccupied chair beside mine.

Jessi didn’t come to classes.

@________________@

She-----

It’s her lose, not mine.

I crossed my arms and narrowed my eyes on Jessi’s seat. I looked away and held my chin up.

Jessi...

“Miss Hwang?” The teacher suddenly said and I widened my eyes in shock.

“Do you have any idea where Miss Jung is..?” I shook my head.

“Okay, please listen.” He finally said.

Goddamn it!! >_______< Lunch break came and still no Jessi. I’m getting sad and I don’t know why. I told myself over and over again that it’s her lost but what if.... she ran away with that Yoona girl????!!! >__< I hate this, I’m the one to blame!! I should have talked to her last night. :( All it takes is just an explanation but I didn’t even dare to listen to her....

“Too much jealousy kills.” Taeyeon put a book on my shoulder, disturbing my negative thoughts from flowing.

“What?” I said innocently.

“Jessi asked me yesterday if you got home safe and I said yes, she followed you and got drenched in the rain.” Taeyeon raised her eyebrow.

“Now, you expect her to go to classes?”

“Fany,” She tapped the book on my shoulder again.

“But she flirted!!” I looked at her with a sullen face.

“Are you sure?” Taeyeon looked at me with worried eyes.

“What if she got sick because she waited for you all night, yesterday??” She sighed and the realization suddenly hit me.

Man, what did I do? @_@

“I-It’s her choice!” I was still pushing my point.

“But the point is, wasn’t that enough??” Taeyeon tapped me for the third time and damn, it hurts.

“Wasn’t that already a proof that she’s sorry??” She talked further.

“...” I can’t seem to talk, Taeyeon has a point.

Okay, she was right.

I could have just listened to what Jessi might say and judge her by that.

But---

“Tiffany Hwang!!!” I glanced around and Taeyeon opened her mouth in surprise.

I stood up and looked at this flirty-flirty in front of me, I was ready to spank her when she suddenly embraced me and I can’t get her off me!! WTF!!!

“GET!OFF!ME!” I pushed her hand with all my force but I cannot undo her flirty arms wrapped around me.

“Aish!!” Taeyeon irritatingly said while helping me get this flirty girl outta my body.

“Get off my best friend!!”

“But, Tiffany! You don’t remember me?” Flirty pointed to her face like she did last night.

“What are you doing here?” I sounded really pissed off.

“I just transferred schools!!” She paraded her new uniform in front of us and I wanna punch her flirty face.

“Leave me alone!!!” I said.

“But Sica is not here!!”

“Don’t—“

“And I just wanted to tell you that Sica is sick!!!” She suddenly pouted at me.

“Like I care!!” I frowned at her flirty pout.

“But she got sick because of you!!”

“Stop blaming me! It’s not like I told her to take a bath in the rain!!” I countered.

“But you are Sica’s girlfriend!!” She dropped her hands in frustration.

HUH? @_@

I suddenly pulled her hair and carried her to the door.

“What did you just say??” I narrowed my eyes on her. Gosh, her eyes swirled, she got dizzy when I pulled her hair.

"I said you’re her girlfriend!! You should care!!”

“You knew it??” I let go of her hair.

“Ouch!! That hurts Tiffany!!” She pouted again at me. Damn that flirty pout!!

“Of course!! I knew it from the start.” She looked at me innocently.

“What?” I stared at her in confusion.

But she went all flirty with my girlfriend yesterday! Even hugging her tight!!!! >_<

“Yah. I know you’re her girlfriend for she has been in love with you for about five years, ayt?” She asked me innocently.

“And I got the idea yesterday that you are already her girlfriend!!”

“AT LAST!!!” This Yoona opened her arms widely and I looked at her annoyingly.

“So, Tiffany, won’t you visit her? She’s sick.” She pouted again.

“Huh?”

“You should care and don’t be angry already!!! Don’t be jealous about me and Sica.” She patted me on the shoulder.

“What do you mean I should not get jealous when you hugged her tightly yesterday?! And you got flirty-flirty?????????” My anger got over me.

“Eh?” Her eyes widened in shock.

“So you really think I fancied Sica?” She chuckled.

“We’ve know each other for years and I don’t find her attractive, well maybe slight but it’s not whatcha think,” She crossed her arms.

“It’s just that I like hugging!!!” She beamed at me and hugged me again.

“And that’s given!! I haven’t seen her for about three years!!!” She leaned her head on my shoulder and I wanted to remove her flirty head!!!! >_<

“I have my own girlfriend ya know.” She winked at me.

And so...

“In fact, I’m a member of a nationwide club called ‘HugEveryone’. And the members are required to hug 30 people a day!! We hug persons all over!!” She suddenly walked and hugged Taeyeon who was just listening to us.

“You’re the 22nd!!” She beamed at Taeyeon.

“Err..”

WHAT A WEIRDO!!!!!!!!!!!!!! O_O

“I LOVE HUGSS!!!!!” She yelled and all my classmates looked at us like: “It’s Tiffany and company again.”

Why are the people surrounding me weirdos?!

I sighed.

“Forgive Sica, eh.” She patted me again and wrapped again her arms around me.

“By the way, who’s the girl with you yesterday??” Taeyeon suddenly barged in.

“Uhh, secret!!!!!!!” She embraced Taeyeon again and ran away.

“Hey!!!” I yelled at Yoona who just disappeared.

Good thing, she’s not our classmate. @_@

I sighed and looked at Taeyeon who was grinning at me widely.

“Now, who’s to blame?” She smirked at me and I slapped her lightly.

“Now I think, Jessica would love to have a visitor.” She suddenly whispered to me.

“HEYO THERE!!” Yuri popped out of nowhere and we both looked at her.

“Look, look!!” Yuri let us see bookmarks with Sooyoung’s face in it.

“They come in handy!! And there are tons of fangirls buying them!! You like one, Tiff?” She suddenly asked me.

“Err, no thanks.” I shook my head.

“Gosh, so many designs!! How much each?” The two suddenly became busy while looking at the Sooyoung-inspired bookmarks.

Then within ten seconds,

“I’ll be getting all!!!” Taeyeon brought out her wallet and paid Yuri.

“Nayzzzz doin’ business with ya yoh!!” Yuri sounded like she was in a casino.

“Now you.” Taeyeon leaned closer at me, observing my face.

“What?” I took a step back.

“I’ll be visiting her after dismissal.” I looked away as if it would hide my flushed face.

“Good.” Taeyeon patted me on the head like I was incredibly shorter than her.

I place my hand over us, just to measure if Taeyeon got taller but she’s still in the same height. Heeh.

I smirk at myself and she slapped me on my stomach.

“Ouch!!” I said annoyingly.

As soon as dismissal approached us, I hurriedly said goodbye to Taeyeon and Yuri so that I could go to Jessica’s house.

But where is her house? @_______@

Man, such a fail!!!

As I struggled to find where she is in this line of houses before me, flirty Yoona suddenly appeared out of nowhere and hugged me from behind. WTF?!

UGH. Is this really what her ‘club’ teaches them? It’s kind of uncomfortable you know---

"Tiffany!” She yelled even though my ears were just inches from her mouth as she clung to me like a koala. @___@

“What?!” I said annoyingly as I try to remove her flirty-hands off my waist. DAMN.

“I reckon you dunno Sica’s house huh?” She let go of me and put her hands on her waist.

Not that I like her to be the one to tell me!!! >__<

“It’s none of your busi----“ As I try to finish my should-be ‘I-DON’T-LIKE-YOU’ statement, Yoona suddenly grabbed me while we ran through the lines of houses. I try to remove her grip on mine but to no avail. @_@ Maaa~uhhnnnn! I try to remove her hand again!! FAIL! Then she halted in front of a peach gate house, making me bump my head on her back.

“OUCH!!” I said as I wipe my forehead then she smirked at me and smiled. Huh?

Still holding my arm, she walked towards the door, pushing the button of the door bell a multiple times until a voice talked saying ‘Jung’s residence’ (By that mention, I could feel my heart beating fast. Seriously I don’t know what to say to Jessi. Maybe I should get angry at her? Or wait for her to say sorry before I talk??) and she talked incessantly, ugh ParrotYoona.

“HEY AUNTIEEE!! It’s Yoona here!!!” I saw her eyes gleaming. Does she even know how to greet in the afternoon? @_@

“Sica has a visitor,” She suddenly said.

“A special one..” She whispered and winked at me.

Suddenly, the door opened and there came out a woman in her middle forty’s in a red apron. Her hair is brown and kind of dishevelled. As I stare at her intently, she smiled warmly at us, at me(?!) That was the time when I thought this woman could be Jessi’s mother but.... as I stare at her longer, I couldn’t even find any resemblance. Jessi’s cold eyes, her blonde hair, her thin, pink lips and her eccentric aura has been the opposite of her mother’s.

“Oh, Yoona! It’s nice to see you again. Sica just told me you came home yesterday.” She smiled at flirty and back at me. I tried to smile warmly too but it’s hard because I’m too shy.

“Auntie~ I brought Sica’s..” Flirty looked at me again and grinned.

“Friend.” God, she put too much emphasize on the word making Jessi’s mother’s eyes wander at me. @_@ And I could feel cold sweat flowing through my body.

I pushed a smile.

“Oh hello there! It’s nice to know Sica has a new friend. That girl is hard to understand, I’m a bit surprised to know she gained one. That doesn’t happen everyday and I’m so glad.” She smiled and motioned us to get inside as she wiped her hands on her red apron.

Even her mother calls her Sica.

“Auntie! Uhm, I don’t think I could stay.” Flirty started making up alibis. Oh flirty, please flirty, don’t leave me by myself here. >__< I, I don’t know what to do!!!

“Oh.” Jessi’s mother glanced at flirty questioningly.

“Erm.. I’ve got to ran errands!” Flirty blurted as she pushed me beside Jessi’s mother. @_@ Seriously, this girl has issues!! I don’t understand her.

“Please enjoy Tiffany’s company!!” She continued to push me beside Jessi’s mother.

“Bye auntie! Bye Tiffany!!!” She left as soon as I turned to look back at her to catch her but I was too slow and late. I just found myself side by side with Jessi’s mother, that feeling of having butterflies in my stomach is just too much to ignore. >_<

“Uhhm..” I tried to talk as I smile shyly at her.

“So your name is Tiffany?” She looked at me and smiled.

Her smile is so warm~

“Yes. I am Tiffany Hwang.” I answered politely.

“I just heard that Jessi is sick ... so I.. I came by.. to visit her.. and..” I held the box of a tiny cake in my right hand.

“Oh, thank you Tiffany~ By the way, Sica is upstairs. She would be glad to know you’re here.” She smiled again at me and pointed at the staircase which leads to Jessi’s room. @_@ Now, I could tell that even caterpillars and cocoons are living in my stomach, each one of them on the process of metamorphosis.

I bowed at Jessi’s mother and she smiled again at me. Nodding at me like she was encouraging me to go upstairs and I did while I could feel my feet wobble as I try to ingest and think of what I should say as soon as I see Jessi.

Grrrr. I suddenly remembered what happened yesterday! >_<

As I reached her door, I knocked twice and she peeped, looking at me with wide eyes. I looked away as I furrow my eyebrows and clear my throat. She closed the door and I knocked again.

“Hey! Let’s talk!” I tried to soften my voice. Damn you Jessi, why should you close your door at me?!

“Open..” And I could hear her cough a little.

I suspiciously opened the door. Her room is a....

MESS. Too many books on the table and bed, and even magazines scattered around the floor and her clothes lying everywhere. @__@ JUST WHAT THE..?

I looked around again and I fixed my eyes on her.

“EH????????” I said in disbelief.

“You.. well, you said.. you don’t want to.. see my face ever again.. so..” She talked as she arranged the Totoro mask covering her face and control myself to laugh.

“I guess you like Totoro’s face than.. mine..” She suddenly sneezed.

“Yea right. Good thing you remembered that.” I was trying to annoy her when she crawled back to her bed again.

“Hey..” She looked at me, Totoro’s face in front of my eyes.

“Well.. uhhh..”

Should I get angry? Should I confront her now?

But I’m not really angry now.. the moment I saw her... I felt happy........

“....” I could only hear her deep breaths and she suddenly buried herself onto her pillows.

“Hey, Jessi..” I sat on the bed and put my hand on her forehead, trying to feel her temperature.

“Did you drink your medicine?” Totoro’s eyes looked back at me and shook her head.

“You should drink your medicine!!” I said hysterically as I stood up, searching on her drawers for some medicine kit but what caught my eyes was a sketch pad and she hogged it from me when I would be opening it.

“....”

“Jessi..” I reached for her face and slowly remove the Totoro mask to see who I wanted to see. When I had removed it completely, her face was red, her nose was red and she looked so weak.

And this is all my fault. T_T

“I’m sorry..” I said as I stared at her watery eyes and she sneezed again.

“I should have listened....” I placed my hand on her cheek, and it was warmer than usual. She shook her head slowly and sneezed again.

“...” I don’t know what to say next and we stared at each other for awhile, my eyebrows furrowing again.

“Well, don’t think I have forgiven you already just because you’re sick.” I looked away.

“Yoona and.. I..” she coughed.

“..are just friends..” She finished and hurdled herself onto her blanket like a caterpillar on its cocoon. Her eyes staring at me intently and sincerity transparently emitted from her deep, dark eyes.

“But... you tried to stop me when she was flirting... you” I frowned as the small eyes of Totoro seemed to look at me questioningly. I glanced at her and she coughed again, slowly shutting her eyes. And she opened them again, her eyes getting watery, I think, from her colds.

“I.. would... try to explain...that time....” She stared at me and I suddenly see tears dripping from her eyes and she wiped them quickly, as if I should not see them.

“I am sorry..” She continued to stare at me.

“Would you..” She coughed.

“Forgive me Fany...?” A tear flowed again and she used her blanket to wipe it.

She tried to sit up and I watched her oily blonde hair moved with her body as she reached for my hand. And as soon as her hand rested on mine, that same feeling becomes stronger.

“...” I just stared at her then glanced at our hands.

“Fany..”

“It’s all right.... really, I could never be angry at you for too long. I.. well, my anger had already disappeared as soon as I saw you.. last night.. it’s just that... I, I want you to initiate.. I’m bad, ain’t I? But then... you got sick because of me...” I started crying!!!!!!!! Oh man, such a cry baby and she laughed weakly at me.

“I wish I could hug you.. but I can’t..” She tried to smile.

“I don’t want you to smell me or to have flu-----...” She stopped as soon as I wrapped my arms around her.

“Hey, I don’t really care.” I said while smiling and she hugged me back.

“But---“

“Ssshh.” I silenced her and embraced her tighter. I missed her. T___T It’s because I was too stubborn and was full of pride. @___@ And in the end, I know I’ve lost more than I’ve thought I would have gained. >__< Shall not repeat this~!

“Drink your medicine okay?” I said as soon as we parted and she nodded like a child, burying herself again on the pillows and I put her blanket over her body.

“Where’s your medicine?” I wandered my eyes on the catastrophic room and she smiled awkwardly at me.

“I know.” I stood up and started cleaning her room, placing her clothes downstairs and her mother was really gratefully because I was the first person whom Jessi let to touch her clothes and arrange her own room. HUH? @_@

As I continued to arrange the books and placing them on the bookshelves, Jessi’s eyes were all around me.

“You should sleep!” I demanded and she closed her eyes. When I continued cleaning her room, I looked around and became proud of myself. I’m hell of a cleaner baby!! Heeh. And I smirked. Glancing back at Jessi, she opened her eyes slightly. Does she really know how to read minds? It’s like she knows that I would be looking at her. @__@

“Thank..you..” She smiled quickly and I sat beside her. Suddenly, we both heard a knock on the door, making Jessi sat and I stood up to open it.

“Sica~dear, here.” She peeped on the door with a bowl of porridge on her hands and I blushed slightly at the idea of me feeding her. AGGRESSIVE FANY. >_< I glanced at Jessi and she turned her back from the door. @_@

“Tiffany, is it all right if you’ll be the one to feed her?” Jessi’s mother’s voice sounded apologetic as reached for the bowl and smiled at her.

“It’s no big deal, really.” I said and she nodded at me. I closed the door behind and put the bowl on the bedside table.

“Jessi..” I pat her on the shoulder and she turned around.

“Here.” I placed the spoon near her mouth and she frowned.

WTF?! I would be feeding her and she ADFJLASJFDSAKL FROWNED?!!! >_<

“I would sit first.” She sat up and wrapped her blanket around her body and stared at me as her mouth left opening slightly and I placed the spoon to feed her.

“Ouch!!” She fanned her mouth.

“It’s hot! HOT!!!” She said and I gave her the water.

“I’m sorry Jessi!! I’m sorry!!” I said apologetically as I watched her eyes water again. UGH!!!

“It’s all right..” She grinned weakly and I tried to feed her again, guaranteed that it’s not that hot anymore. And she looked at me, her eyes intense.

“I..”

“I.....” she started to talk slowly.

“I lo---“ and she just smiled.

So I neared the spoon on her mouth when she suddenly, fell in front of me. @___@ And her lips...

Touched mine.,.

O_____________O

What’s happening??!! Her lips felt warmer this time and I could taste the porridge on her mouth. >____< Why should she even-----

I placed the bowl blindingly at the bedside table for her lips were still on mine, then I pushed her lightly away from me and she fell down again.

COULD YOU BELIEVE IT READERS??? JESSI WAS ALREADY SLEEPING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ARGGGHHH. And she stole another kiss again!!! Not in the forehead but on my lips! @__@ A sleepy kiss of porridge. O____O UGH. It’s not like I don’t want it but I want to be ready because I still don’t know how to kiss!! >_<

I twitched my lips slightly and I could feel myself flushed again as I lay her carefully on the bed, her mouth opening slightly and her deep breaths filled the room. One of the buttons of her pajamas’ pink top opening slightly as she turned around at me. @_@ A hint of her skin blinding me and I could feel my eyes getting dizzy the more I stared at her fair skin just below her collar bones so I looked away. Feeling guilty thinking of YOU-KNOW-THAT-IT’S-BAD things!! But I should uhh, arrange her clothes so I closed my eyes while I buttoned her pink top again. After feeling guilty, I went downstairs and told Jessi’s mother that she was already sleeping.

“Thank you!! It feels as though you’re so important to Sica!” She smiled warmly again at me.

“I’m sorry if I’ve bothered you about feeding her...” She looked at me with her worried eyes and I shook my head.

“It’s all right.” I smiled.

“All of us want Jessi to get better.” I smiled with full energy and her mother bowed her head on me and so did I.

“I’ll just tell Sica that you left already because it’s getting dark outside. Thank you Fany and please do continue taking care of our Sica.” She bowed again as I disappeared from their gate.

I COULD STILL FEEL THE PORRIDGE ON MY LIPS, and her lips... Jessi stole a kiss. She kissed me and she didn’t even tell me that she would. HUWAAAAAAAAA~ my kissing skills are below level ten, I’m hopeless. @____@

She kissed me..

The next day, I wobbly walked towards the garden when I saw Jessi, covering her mouth with her blue hanky as she coughed. (We started to water the plants every morning too. @__@)

“Uhh..” I’m not looking at her.

“Are you really feeling better..?” I tried looking at her but end up looking at her hanky. @_@

“Yes, thanks..” Her lips curled into a smile.

“Uhh, by the way Jessi..” I looked at her, but then every time I look at her, I could remember what happened yesterday. BUT was that intentional?? It’s not much to ask, right? Uhh...

She looked at me intently.

“Do you remember...” I trailed off.

“Y-yesterday..?” I asked her questioningly.

“Yes.” Oh, so that kiss was intentional??!!

“You knew it?!” I said surprisingly.

“That you came and visit me and feed me?” She retorted.

“Uhh.. that’s all..?”

“Then I slept and you left..?” She continued, looking at me confusingly.

“YOU FORGOT??!” I widened my eyes.

“Huh?”

“Jessi, you forgot what happened to us yesterday?” I widened my eyes more.

“WHAT?” Her eyes widened too and covered her body by her hands as if to tell me that I raped her yesterday or something!! WHAT THE HECK..?

“W-We, we did that yesterday??” She tightened her grip on her body again.

“I’m just a first year student.. I’m still young and.. and---“

“NO!! Not that! What are you thinking??” I sighed deeply.

“I thought we already did that, and you took advantage of me while I’m sleeping.. and uhh.. you saw my.. body..” She smirked.

“OF COURSE NOT!!!” I said defensively but I did buttoned (NOT UNBUTTONED) her pink top and just that!!! How come she forgot about stealing a kiss from me!! >__<

“We’re too young for that and---“

“And?” She raised a brow.

Don’t you think I should be the one cornering her about the porridge kiss!!

“And I NEVER took advantage of you!” I rolled my eyes.

“Okay.” She crossed her arms now.

“So what did I forget?” She raised a brow again.

“You did me wrong.” I pouted.

“What? I was the one who took advantage of you and we did that??” She asked confusingly.

I sighed again.

“We never did that! But you’ve done me something that’s....... uhn.... why did you forget it!!!?” I asked hysterically.

“What?? I never really remembered anything except that you feed me then I slept then after that, you left!!” She said, annoyed by how I was interrogating--- wait I’m not Tae!!! ---Anyway, that.

“You stole a kiss from me yesterday!!” I confessed.

“HUH?” She shook her head hard.

“How did I??”

“Before you slept!! You fell and..”

“And... y-you kissed me!!!” I said as I pointed my index finger at her.

“Ow, that’s why I felt warm...?” She blinked her eyes many times.

“But that was accidental!!” She said defensively.

“But you did!! You didn’t even tell me that you would!!”

“But how would I know when I just suddenly got dizzy yesterday!!”

“But the point is, you kissed me!! And I’m not good at it! I mean...”

“I could have been prepared.” I dropped my hands. Why does kissing frustrate me? -____-

“Prepared?” She let out a laugh.

“Now, what?!” I was annoyed then she moved closer to me. Her face inches from mine.

“Practice makes perfect you know.” She whispered at me and I pushed her away.

She smirked.

“Let’s practice.” She teased me more.

“I thought you just had your first kiss with me? Then now, now you’re belittling me about kissing!! And then, you don’t understand my point!! Am I really your first kis—“

No! What I fear the most, happened again.

Jessi suddenly kissed me and I surrendered... I closed my eyes...

WAAAH?! SURRENDERED??! I SHALL NOT!!! @__@ NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! This is bad, this is bad. I shall stop this!! >__<

I pushed her again then she opened her eyes. When we parted she smirked at me and I looked away.

“That made you shut up.” She grinned.

"I hate you!!”

I pouted at her when I suddenly felt something in my nose. Something that I never thought I could get sooner or later. @___@ THIS. IS. NOT. GOOD.

“Achoo~” I suddenly sneezed and Jessi was already quite far from me, then she coughed and grinned.

She ran away.

“JESSI!!!” I yelled at her and,

“Achoo~!!!” I sneezed again.

Then I ran after her.

“ACHOOOOOOOO~!!!!” My sneeze echoed towards the corridors.

16 First Overdose

“Hey, you two there, what are youhn---“ I walked happily at the bushy side of the school when I saw Taeyeon and Yuri dressed weirdly, with hats and dark sunglasses covering their faces. So I asked them what they’re up to. It’s lunch break and I left Jessi in the room because I was finding Taeyeon (She also said she wanted to ‘protect’ Totoro and she doesn’t want to leave him alone). I would ask her to lend me her notes then I saw them here, looking weirder than they used to.

“Mmmm mhnnn!!” I tried to remove Yuri’s hands on my mouth.

“Ssshhh!!!!” Taeyeon pulled me to sit with them behind the bush while putting her index finger over her mouth to silence me.

“What are you—“ I talked with the normal level of my voice.

“Shut up!!” Taeyeon said in a low but annoyed-tone whisper and Yuri kept on silencing my mouth.

“Okay!! Okay!!” I whispered too.

“But what are you two up to---“

“There she is!!!” Their eyes suddenly left me and it narrowed towards a girl walking on the back side of the garden. The eyes of these two felt like they were snakes waiting for their prey to come. Scary! Then I felt goosebumps growing on my arms.

“Ugh...” I wrinkled my nose as I watch the girl eyed her surroundings suspiciously.

“Ahhh~” I was controlling myself and Yuri and Taeyeon shifted their eyes on me. I wrinkled my nose again, no~ I can’t control it!

I MUST NOT SNEEZE. It has been four days now and I still have colds. What virus did Jessi get?? Must be something from outer space!!

“Ahh~” My head tilted as I still try to control it.

“Ahhhhhh~”

“NO!!” Taeyeon said in a low whisper and Yuri suddenly pinched my nose hard.

“Ouch!!! You should have not done that!! I was controlling it!!!” I was annoyed as I whispered to them while I felt my moment of sneezing have gone by. Ugh, I hate it when I control my sneeze. The feeling is just so irritating, right readers?

“As I’ve told you!!” Yuri said to Taeyeon, ignoring what I’ve said earlier. And because I was dense (I know you readers are laughing now because I already admitted it, DUH.) I just noticed that the girl we’re observing (uhm? Stalking?) was Flirty.

FLIRTY?!!!

Oh man, I just realized it’s FlirtyYoona, ParrotYoona and YoonaWhoLeftMeYesterdayWithJessi’sMom and YoonaWhoIsAHugWhore.

“Why are we---?” I tried to ask the two stalkers beside me when they cut me off.

“I’ve told you!” Taeyeon said disappointingly and I saw Flirty with another girl. The girl we saw at the amusement park. The girl’s hair is now yellow and her sunglasses was darker than before. So is this Yoona’s girlfriend? Hmm, I think so.. Maybe her girl friend is an entertainer? Or maybe a mafia so she needs to pretend? Or maybe a foreigner?? Wow, American!!!!

“Wow, American!!” I beamed while whispering and Taeyeon slapped me in the head. THIS TINYTAEYEON DESERVED SOME PUNISHMENT FROM ME, REALLY.

“Ouch!” I glared at her.

“That’s a wig!!!” She said like my IQ was based on that!!! I rolled my eyes.

“When I finished counting, you know what to do...” Yuri and Taeyeon stared and nodded at each other. They looked on the other side of the bush and I saw the somethings.

SOMETHINGS!?? Hyo-something and Sun-something?!!!

“Why is Hyo and Sunny here?” I eagerly asked Yuri and covered Taeyeon from her view by placing my face in front of her.

“Oh, man, you don’t know Tae and I had also persuaded them to join the club?” Yuri raised her eyebrows like I’m the last person to know.

“You should join to you know!! It would be really, really---“

“Yuri!!” Taeyeon whispered annoyingly while pulling my face out of the way. WTF!!!!

“Game,” Yuri’s face turned serious as soon as she caught a glimpse of Taeyeon’s determined face. This is absurd.

“How about me?” I pointed on myself. I should participate! I wanna see American~

“Control your sneeze.” Taeyeon smirked at me and Yuri was controlling her laugh severely.

“Okay now...” Taeyeon’s face suddenly became serious again as she signalled Hyo and Sunny to switch places and get closer to Flirty and the American. They were also in disguised by the way.

“One...” Yuri suddenly started counting and my mouth was left opening at the sight of Yoona and the foreigner embracing each other tightly.

“I miss you hunnybunch~” I suddenly heard Flirty’s voice echoing towards the garden of the school. Eww, calling someone like that is just a no-no. I wonder what would Jessi tell me if I called her that. Maybe she would even avoid me.

“I miss ya too hunnybunch~~” The foreigner(?) said.

THE VOICE WAS FAMILIAR!!

Then suddenly I just saw Yuri and Taeyeon running towards flirty and foreigner. That fast!!! Taeyeon wrestled Yoona as Yuri put her hand on the foreigner’s(?) mouth, making the foreigner(?), as Yuri knelt down on the grass, strangled while lying down. Hyo and Sunny stood by like bouncers waiting and being fences so that Yoona and the foreigner wouldn’t escape. Then after awhile Sunny brought out a rope and tied the foreigner on the tree.

I stood up and started to run away when Taeyeon suddenly called me. What are these four doing? Hold-upping Yoona and the foreigner(?) just to buy and produce Sooyoung merchandise? Are they this desperate?

I smiled awkwardly at her.

“HELP ME, FANY!!” Taeyeon motioned me to approach them and to hold Flirty on the head. What are they doing?!

“Uhh, I’m not jealous at Yoona anymore... so uhh...”

“It’s not about that!! JUST GO AND HELP!!” Taeyeon glared at me and I slowly made my way towards them.

“Let go of me!! Let go!!!” Yoona’s voice started echoing.

“We might be caught! If this is about money, I could---“ Then suddenly Yuri removed the foreigner’s hair. HER HAIR WAS REMOVABLE???!!!

Aye, it’s a wig. Heeh.

Then she removed her sunglasses, revealing the foreigner’s short and wavy hair and her big yet alluring (no, Jessi, don’t get angry to me, I just dunno how to describe it. Err) eyes.

It’s...

I stared at her...

The girl is...

Suddenly Yuri hugged the foreigner tightly, loosening the rope a bit.

“EXACTLY AS I’VE PREDICTED!” Yuri cried out while my best friend stood frozen on her place.

Ehh? It was action now turned drama.

Okay, the girl is Sooyoung.

WHAT?!

SOO----

SOOYOUNG?!

Yoona. Sooyoung. Yoona. Sooyoung. Yoona and Sooyoung. Yoona calling her hunnybunch. Sooyoung calling her hunnybunch too. Yoona and Sooyoung. Yoona and Sooyoung secretly seeing each other in this garden. Secretly and uhh hugging each other. OMG, they are lovers. Now, what to do, what to do.

“Err...” I smiled awkwardly as Sooyoung successfully freed herself from Yuri. Wow, that fast, she managed to escape from the rope!! Amazing!!

“...” Taeyeon cannot talk but just stared at Sooyoung as the taller girl stood up and placed her hand on her waist, her face emitting something like anger, embarrassment and apology at the same time.

“Uhh eehhhh...” Sooyoung stood in place as she smiled awkwardly at her fangirls.

"Explain!!” Yuri demanded and her face was literally unimaginable. A mix of anger, hatred and disappointment. Something I couldn’t bring myself to expect from her face.

“What?” Sooyoung’s tone was that of ‘are-you-even-serious’ tone.

"Why are you doing this to us?” Yuri glanced at the top 3 fangirls of the club (of course Top 1 is Yuri) and they nodded in unison while their faces painted that the same of Yuri’s. Especially my best friend, her mouth was opened in an ‘o’ and her eyes fixed on the ground.

“Doing what??” Sooyoung said the words like she wasn’t doing something wrong and then her expression changed from that of shock when she stared at Yoona still lying on the ground. She slowly walked towards her and helped her up.

“Are you all right, Yoona? I’m sorry.” I could only see Sooyoung’s back as Yoona nodded before leaning closer to her and Yuri, without thinking, pushed Yoona away from Sooyoung.

I was like watching a drama live. I couldn’t even think of what to do.

“Don’t. You. Ever. Touch. Yoona. Again.” Sooyung’s tone raised as she narrowed her eyes towards Yuri.

“Explain!” Yuri pouted at her.

“What should I explain? It’s not like I forced you girls to be my fangirls in the first place!!” Sooyoung dropped her hands in frustration as she help Yoona up again.

“But you promised us that you wouldn’t involve yourself in a relationship! YOU ARE OURS!”

“When..?”

“Taeyoen give me my bag!!” Taeyeon slowly reach for the beaded bag on the ground and gave it to Yuri, not even bothering to glance at Sooyoung. Annoyed, Yuri waver her hands inside the bag as soon as she got what she had been looking for.

“Here!” Yuri placed the paper in front of Sooyoung’s face and I tried hard to peep on it but all I could see was Yoona’s face which was now dirty because of the grass and the mud. Poor Flirty. I couldn’t even do anything to stop this.

“Waaah???” Sooyoung’s eyes widened with shock.

“I, I, I didn’t sign that!!”

“Yes you did!” Yuri flied the paper around for the other fangirls to see and Yoona peeked too but Yuri kept the paper again for Yuri not to see it.

“You had signed a contract saying that you wouldn’t get a girlfriend before you graduate high school.” Yuri held her chin up.

“Ehhhhhh~?” Sooyoung suddenly got dizzy while she rested her hand on her forehead.

“But that could be fake!” She suddenly had the fighting spirit.

“No, it isn’t unnie.” Yuri smirked.

“You’ve signed it while we were dating. Remember, I’ve treated you to a Japanese resto.” She eyed Yoona proudly who was now pushing Hyoyeon away from her after Hyoyeon pushed her first.

“Eh, maybe we could uhh talk this over.” I talked awkwardly at them as each one of them looked at me like ‘talking-this-over-wouldn’t-do-anything’.

“How..?” Sooyoung sounded like she badly need my help to stop this.

“Uhh, first well...” I started to furrow my eyebrows while I think of a good start of how we could arrange this.

“Well...” I furrowed my eyebrows further.

“Uhh...” Seriously, I can’t think of anything. The fangirls might cause a riot over me.

“Skipping classes?” Jessi was suddenly beside me and everyone looked at her like she was some kind of mushroom. How the hell did she managed to escape from classes and know where I was?

I looked at her and she was already looking at me, smiling gently and her blonde hair tied up. And I felt her hands caressing my hair gently as her other hand carried our son, Totoro.

“It feels romantic.” I glanced at Sooyoung as she rolled her eyes at us.

I cleared my throat.

“As I was talking about...”

“You guys should just accept the fact that Sooyoung had a girlfriend.” I stared at Jessica who just talked bluntly and the fangirls narrowed their eyes on my Jessi.

“Or... she has to pick...” Their expressions changed.

“Challenge each other so that it would be final as to who Sooyoung’s girlfriend would be.” Jessi let out a smirk.

Sooyoung’s face lit up slowly and she beamed at everyone. What the...

“Nice idea.” She smiled at Jessi.

“What about the club!!! All the girls in there??” Yuri sounded worried and responsible now.

“Since not all of the members of the club know this, then whoever becomes my girlfriend between the five of you would be a secret.” She grinned.

“Wouldn’t that be adventurous, keeping it as a secret?” She grinned wider and the fangirls’ faces suddenly blushed. The pheromones Sooyoung emits to them, I’m feeling dizzy again~

“I would hold a challenge then.” Sooyoung crossed her arms.

“The champion in the challenge would be my girlfriend.”

All the fangirls face turned serious. This is just so scary. And Jessica put her arms on my shoulder.

“When would the challenge start?” Yuri sounded determined and Taeyeon’s features went darker, Hyo’s and Sunny’s too. And Yoona looked like she was in the wrong place.

"In the upcoming Sports Fest.” Sooyoung smirked.

“You’ll be mine.” I heard Hyoyeon whisper to herself. And Jessi pulled me closer to her.

“How about me..?” Yoona questioned her, searching Sooyoung’s eyes for the answer.

“We just broke up.” She looked at Yoona whose mouth gaped.

“B-But...”

“Win me back.” She finished and left her fangirls on the garden.

“She would be mine!!” Yuri tugged Yoona’s shirt as she threatened her.

“No, I’ll win her back!!” Yoona frowned and I could see that she’s near tears. She had been dumped just like that, that Sooyoung is a player, seriously.

“Try me.” Taeyeon suddenly balled her hands into a fist while the girls look at her.

“Don’t you dare tiny.” Sunny suddenly talked.

“Look who’s shorter!!” Taeyeon cried out.

“Stop! Stop!!” Yuri cleared her throat.

“This should be a healthy competition!!” She announced and Taeyeon looked away from Sunny’s irritated face.

“May the best woman wins then,” Hyoyeon said and they all agreed before dispersing away from each other.

I looked at Jessica and she looked at me back.

“What did you do?” I panicked.

“That’s better than you watching them wrestling each other.”

“But...”

“Sports fest is still three weeks away, so they could prepare.” She continued.

“We’ll have to go on a field trip on Thursday first.” She finished.

“Oh, I totally forgot about our camping trip!!” I panicked because I still haven’t asked if my mother would allow me to go. I should ask her to sign the consent when I get home.

“Yay, camping!!” Yuri emerged again in front of us and Jessi looked at her like ‘how-did-you-just-came-into-the-scene’ face.

“Eh? Where have you been?” I asked her to my surprise.

“Oh, I just hid on the trees after we had dispersed. It felt like we’re in an action movie!! YAY!! Readying for some kind of a big challenge!!!” She beamed.

“Why the sudden happiness?” I asked her doubtfully.

“’Coz I know I’ll win—“ Then suddenly Taeyeon slapped her.

“Ouch mini!!!” She eyed Taeyeon.

“Tae?” I asked her worriedly.

“I also hid on the other side of the trees. The moment was mutual.” Then she smirked. Glad, she’s back on track. Maybe the challenge wasn’t a bad thing at all. Err.

“Let’s not talk about the challenge every time we’re together okay? To avoid... uhhh arguments...” I proposed.

“Fany’s right.” Taeyeon was not really looking at us.

“So we are skipping classes?” Jessica asked again.

“What else are we doing?” Taeyeon rolled her eyes.

“By the way Jessi, don’t you care about Yoona...” I suddenly trailed off and I could feel Tae and Yul’s eyes on me.

“Huh?” She looked confused.

“You don’t know she is Sooyoung’s girlfriend?!” I said in shock.

“I just knew now that you told me.” She eyed me innocently and YulTae giggled controllably.

“Someone is turning dense.” Taeyeon smirked at us.

“So uhh...” I stared at Jessi and I could tell she was still shock because she would be putting Yoona in a difficult place.

“You haven’t heard that Sooyoung told her that they just broke up? They broke up just now.” I sighed.

“Err... no, because...” She scratched her head and YulTae started giggling again.

“I... well, I was just staring at you all the time awhile ago...” She smiled gently.

“Oh man, Tiffany, I think you and Jessi should not hang out everyday because she’s having your ‘sickness’ too.” Yuri grinned at me as she tapped me on my shoulder.

“What sickness?” I eyed them puzzlingly.

“I just have colds! And Jessi was the first one who had it.” I told them and I glared at Jessi and punch her lightly on the stomach. Heeh.

“You’re not dense, you’re slow too.” Taeyeon rolled her eyes like it was a wheel turned around.

“What?”

“This conversation is going nowhere.” Taeyeon shook her head.

“Oh my, I guess we should leave the dense lovers alone with their thoughts.” Yuri and Taeyeon turned their backs away from us before I can even ask them what they meant. All I could do was to stare at Jessi for help after watching them vanished from the garden.

“Slow,” She uttered and I looked away, irritated.

“What they meant was that I’m being dense too.” She suddenly hugged me from behind.

“Ehhhhh?? Are you??” I turned around so that I could face her.

“No. I was just well...” She glanced at the bushes and looked at me again.

“Let’s just say...” She smiled.

“You keep on distracting me with your beauty.”

She glanced at her watch, held my hand and together we went to the club.

*

Can’t we even do anything at club beside sketching the field or making origami???!

I mumbled to myself as I try sketching the grasses and flowers from a distance.

The club moderator told us to go outside and draw anything we like and we should keep all our drawings every meeting, compile them to make a portfolio that would be passed before the winter break. And because Jessi and me had (well, literally speaking) drew everything we could think of for the past meetings, we decided to just settle on the upper hill where we could see the open field, where soccer players and baseball players practice.

I turned my back to Jessi who was sitting under a tree beside Totoro, busily sketching something when I caught her looking at me.

“Why don’t you let me see your sketchpad?”

Unfair isn’t it? After I finished drawing things, I would proudly make Jessi see them but in her case, she would tug her sketchpad on her own or yanked it inside her bag before I could even asked her what she have drawn. I’m not good of a drawer either so I don’t think she should get intimidated by my own artistic skills.

I sighed.

“May I see it?” Jessi closed her sketchpad and just looked at me with her empty eyes. There are times when I still don’t get her. Err.

“May I?” I said politely as I put my hand on her sketchpad and she was still looking at me with those eyes. I slowly pull the sketchpad to myself when she gripped on it harder, making me stop.

She doesn’t want me to see it but I want to see it badly!!!

I smiled at her and again, I slowly pulled the sketchpad to myself.

“Uhh...” I made as sound as she continued to stare at me.

“Don’t tell me there are naked----“

“Of course not!!!” Jessi looked away and managed to bring the sketchpad to herself.

“Really?” I curved my lips into a playful grin and she stared at me again as she put her palms on the grass. Heeh, the sketchpad was lying on her lap, unprotected.

And yea, I managed to get if from her laugh and run away.

“HEY!! FANY!!! Bring that back!” She yelled at me as we run after each other.

As I run, I opened the sketchpad and looked at the sketches.

Jessi is pretty good at sketching.

No, she is more than good.

“That’s private!!” As soon as she said those words, I halted and I turned each page, every page. As I look at each page, I could see a girl, sketched countless of times in each page. Every detail was perfectly made from her black streaming hair strands to her contoured lips, no, it’s more than perfect, sublime. I looked up at Jessi and she looked away, as I was trying to catch her eyes, shyly.

I could see myself in every page. Then, slowly I could feel my lips forming a smile.

Jessi have been sketching me, each meeting.

“I—“ I don’t even know what to say.

“Now you think your girlfriend is... still a stalker.” She was now looking at me, her all-time blank expression dominating her features yet again.

“Why haven’t you told me?” I grinned at her.

“I could have posed for you, you know.” The grin started to spread across my face and she smiled at me, her eyes sparkled with my statement.

“But, would you really pass this as your portfolio?” I asked her worriedly. The moderator might think Jessi was some kind of a stalker or something, really.

“Yes.” She said confidently and I let out a laugh.

“Why shouldn’t I be proud with sketching my beautiful distraction?” She stared at me and just like that, the moment came. I leaned closer... and kissed her...

And for a moment, before I close my eyes, I saw Jessi’s widened eyes because I initiated.

I was the first one to initiate a kiss... (But I didn’t get to practice yet!!! Maybe I should try with my pillow first or maybe with my Barbie dolls (because Jessi looks like one)? I AM ONLY KIDDING! DON’T LAUGH!!!!)

“Hey, that’s a good kiss.” Jessi winced after we parted and smirked at me.

“Was that a sarcastic statement?” I raised an eyebrow.

“Nah. Did you practice?” All I could do was to punch lightly on the arm.

“I’ll give you this portfolio when it has been graded.” She suddenly said and I nodded, excited by the fact that I would separate each sketches and posed it around the walls of my room.

She turned around and looked at the open field.

“Oh.” She suddenly said.

“What is it?” I asked her as I positioned myself beside her and she pointed at four girls down the field.

Yuri, Taeyeon, Hyoyeon and Sunny are running in the field. What the hell are they doing??

I then looked at Jessi for an answer and she shrugged.

“Taeyeon!! Yurii!!!” I yelled at them across the hill and the two Sooyoungsters with the religion Sooyoungism (It sounds like a cult.) looked back at me as they stopped running after hearing my voice.

“What are you four up to??” I yelled again as I see Jessi waved back at them.

“STAMINA STRENGTHENING!!” Yuri yelled back.

“What?” I looked at Jessi with confusion.

“Their club is Sooyoung’s Fans Club.... right...? Not Sports Club...?” I looked back at Yuri again.

“SO THAT WE COULD BE READY FOR THE CHALLENGE!!!” Taeyeon yelled, answering my question and I could hear Jessi chuckle.

“They are so serious, aren’t they?”

“I don’t know what effect Choi had on these girls.” I shrugged.

Fany!!! We decided to go to the gym too! You want to come???” Hyoyeon offered across the field and I could see all the sports club members looking at us like they could or I could get nearer so that we wouldn’t need to yell at each other.

“No, thanks!” I smiled at them.

“Ehh, when I thought you want to impress Jessi with your body?”

I looked around and all the people on the field stared at me like I was some kind of a stripper or lap-dancer. This is embarrassing! For once, I wanted to show Hyoyeon how pitiful she was with the cucumber costume!!! Grrr. What more, now the whole school knows I am the girlfriend of the school’s ‘top one’, ‘weirdo’, ‘cyborg’, ‘oyster shell girl’, ‘teleporter’, ‘lady gaga’ (Oh man, her song got stuck inside my head everytime I looked at Jessi before ‘Po-po-po-poker face, po-po-poker face muhmuhmuhmuh’) Jessica Jung. (Like that I care anyway. Wait, I think those terms I’ve used to tell how the school describes Jessi was the terms I’ve used to describe her myself. Ehh?! I just realized I don’t really know what other people think of Jessi, other than Taeyeon’s bickering about how she couldn’t beat Jessi for being out batch’s top one.)

“WHAT!!?” I yelled back as to my astonishment.

When did I say that??!! I’m not even thinking of showing my body to Jessi----

And Hyo-something said it straight to my face and I’m with Jessi. She would think I’m a pervert or something. Or a sex maniac. God, how inconvenient.

“NOTHING!!” Hyoyeon yelled again and they started running like soldiers while I could see the painted grin on my best friend’s face. I don’t even have the courage to look at Jessi now.

“So you want me to see your body?” She looked at me and it was obvious she was controlling her face to show an expression that would back me off.

“I didn’t tell that!! They just made that up!” I sounded pissed off and at the same time, I’ve said it defensively.

“HAHA!” Jessi laughed out loud like she doesn’t care in the world.

“I know. Don’t take them seriously okay? My girlfriend is either of the two, the serious type or the dense type.” She looked at me as she was still controlling her laugh. Her eyes sparkled and got tiny because of happiness overdose.

“And I love them both.” She winked at me and we laughed the drawing session away.

Happiness overdose.

How lovely.

17 First - Third

“Uhh... Jessi...” I stared.

“May I...?” I stared gently with deep eyes, as I protrude my lips forward.

And as I gently caress her blonde hair, I leaned closer and closer staring at her small face. I closed my eyes but then---

“FANY!!!!” TAEYEON SUDDENLY BURSTED OUT INTO THE DOOR, catching me in the act. I hurriedly push my back and keep it behind my blanket.

“What are you doing?” She asked me suspiciously as she approached me.

“It’s uhh... nothing..” I smiled at her awkwardly while I wave my hands at her.

“Really,” she narrowed her eyes on me as she put her hand on the blanket, she was staring at it and back at me.

“Oh, Tae, it’s nothing, really!” I grinned at her and faked an eye-smile.

“I heard Jessi’s name.” She stared at me as she sat on my bed.

“Uhh, really? Maybe that’s just err... your uhh...” I stared at the ceiling.

“Your imagination, yeah your imagination!” I smiled at her again and she continued to eye me suspiciously while her hand moves on my blanket.

“Gotcha,” She grinned at me evilly and I hid myself on one of my pillows.

After getting it under the blanket, she stared at me then at the object.

“What is this??” She asked me.

“What are you doing with this???” She further insisted.

“Uhh, practice...?” I lowered the pillow so that she could only see my eyes.

Taeyeon stared at the blonde-haired Barbie doll which I just bought yesterday. She looked back at me, her face was expressionless then after a while she burst out laughing, shaking the doll in front of my face.

“My God, Tiffany!!” Her eyes got watery from laughing now while I look at her shyly.

“You’re the best comedian everrr~!!!” She laughed some more and was now rolling on my bed.

Oh man, this TinyTae!!! This should be a secret between me and myself but then she found out.

“You’re kissing a doll!!!” Taeyeon laughed again and rolled all over while the Barbie doll lay on the bed, motionless, her hands wide open.

“I would just!!!” I defended.

Taeyeon sat up while she wiped her tears of joy. And she looked at me and laughed again.

“You’re practicing with a doll!!” She pointed at me while her other hand gripped on her stomach and I slapped her in the face.

“Enough!” I said pissed off. I tugged Taeyeon’s collar and her eyes widened.

“Don’t tell this to Jessi, if you’re going to tell this to her, expect me to---“

Then again, SOMEONE BURST INTO THE DOOR!!! Gosh, what’s happening with people going into my room in the afternoon without even messaging me????!! I stared coyly at the person when I hurriedly removed my hand on Taeyeon’s collar.

“What is it that Taeyeon shouldn’t tell me?” Jessica stared at me and I looked at the Barbie doll which is so exposed from her view. Man, this is just so annoying!! If Jessica found out---

Why is Taeyeon and Jessica here by the way?!

Jessica followed my gaze and stared at the doll. Her eyes then searched my face for an answer and I just smiled at her.

“W-What brought you here, Jessi..?” I asked her nervously.

“Tae said she wanted to surprise you,” She shrugged as her face was now expressionless.

She stared at me and Taeyeon opened her mouth.

“Je—“ I put my hand on my best friend’s mouth.

“Mmmmmhhnn...”

“D-Don’t listen to Taeyeon’s senseless words.” I let out a laugh.

“She fell asleep awhile ago and was just mumbling through her sleep now.” I elbowed Taeyeon secretly and she nodded while my hand was still on her mouth.

“Okay,” Jessi’s face didn’t change and I now let go of Tae.

“By the way, what uhh surprise??” I asked both of them questioningly.

“We are going to....”

“...sleep here!!” Taeyeon beamed at me and I was mortified by what she said.

“What?” As if I didn’t hear what she just said.

“I asked your mother if we could sleep here and she said it’s all right!”

“Wait, Jessi too?” I talked to Tae like Jessi wasn’t there.

“Yea, you know tomorrow is our Camping Trip!! We decided that with us sleeping with you, you’ll wake up early and won’t be late!” Taeyeon was now staring at Jessi who was making the Barbie doll walk on my legs and I slapped it.

“What are you doing?!” I removed the doll on my leg.

“Making her walk,” Jessi stared at me innocently.

“Walk over my leg??” I raised a brow.

“Over your leg, yes,” She nodded innocently as she put the doll on my leg again and I removed it again! Why was she making it walk on my leg?!

“Why?” I asked her further and I could sense Taeyeon was enjoying watching it from my peripheral vision.

“The doll needs to practice,” Oh man, her innocent face!!!!!!!!

Wait... PRACTICE?!!!!!!!!!

I gave up and just didn’t pay attention to Jessi.

“I readied my alarm clock for tomorrow!” I looked at Taeyeon again when she smirked at me because Jessi put the doll in front of my face.

I stared at her and she looked at me, pouting.

“Practice...” She waved the doll in front of me as its blonde hair waved with its slim body.

“What?” I asked her now innocently like I didn’t know what she was talking about and Taeyeon was now rolling on my bed again, her laugh echoing on my room. This micro organism should be pulverized until its pieces should be thrown into the wind. Grrr.

Jessi smirked at me and suddenly smacked me on my lips, stealing another kiss yet again. That was just so sudden and then, she hid under the blanket. Oh my God, she kissed me again without my permission!!!! What a kiss-stealer girlfriend I have!!!

“What did you just----!” I said as I was blushing and hearing Jessi laughing under the blanket too!!! I eyed Taeyeon and she was still rolling on the bed so she didn’t notice that Jessi kissed me, so it’s not really that bad. Heeh.

Taeyeon sat up again and looked around the room as I eyed her weirdly.

“Where’s Jessi?” She suddenly looked at me after she just left her ‘rolling exercise’.

And when I would point where Jessi was, the blanket suddenly moved and Jessi popped out in front of me, her dark eyes looking up at me. She grinned widely at me and I looked down at her, I shifted my glance away from her so that she would know that her ‘cuteness’ couldn’t make me forgive her that easily. . Yea, right!

“Hey, are you angry?” She pouted further as she slowly poked my cheek.

I again looked down at her and Taeyeon was coughing horribly and I looked at her.

“I think *cough* I swallowed *cough* some of the pillows’ *cough* feathers *cough cough cough*.”

That’s what you get shorty!! After she rolled on my bed and laughed at me crazily, huh, I hope all the feathers stick on your nostrils too. DUH. Then Jessica tapped her on the back multiple times.

“Vomit the feathers!!!” She said, insisting her as she tapped her back harder making Taeyeon cough more.

“Jessi!! What are you doing to her!!” I panicked as I watch Jessi tapped her.

“Tapping her?” She tapped her some more and Taeyeon was reaching for me to help her.

Jessi then looked at Taeyeon and her eyes widened and she tapped her faster.

“Oh my gosh, Jessi, you’ll going to kill her! Stop tapping!!!” I said and Jessi stopped obediently. Taeyeon lied on my bed. Her eyes suddenly got dizzy. Jessi waved her hand over Taeyeon’s face to know if she’s awake but then no reaction.

Jessi and I looked at each other. And Taeyeon suddenly got up, her eyes are all white and she raised two of her hands as she bowed her head.

“Awwoooo~” She tried to scare us.

“Wow, I’m scared!!” I kid around by changing my expression and Taeyeon’s face got back to its original look.

“By the way, Fany have you told your mother about the camping tomorrow?”

“Uhh... not yet,” I admitted.

“You should let her sign the consent now,” Taeyeon rolled her eyes while Jessi nodded.

“And after that...” Taeyeon and Jessica looked at each other.

“GROCERIES!!!!!” They both beamed at me while raising their hands up in the air.

“All right, all right!” I said, enjoying that somehow Jessi and Tae gets along well.

“Anyway, why haven’t you two brought Yuri with you..?” I suddenly searched the answer on Taeyeon’s face.

“Uhh, she went to the gym...”

“Gym..???” I know it’s because of Sooyoung’s challenge but tomorrow is our Camping Trip! And instead of readying herself for tomorrow (to rest, to buy packed snacks and lunches...), Yuri is out there, making muscles.

“You know, Sooyoung-unnie’s challenge...”

“I know... isn’t she overworking...?”

“I just went there too...” Taeyeon said shyly at me and I just noticed that’s why she’s wearing sweatpants and a pink sports shirt... Oh man!!

“Ah, okay...” Was all I could reply!

“Anyway, shall we go?” Taeyeon smiled again and Jessi nodded. I hurriedly opened my school bag to search for the consent. It’s better to let mum sign it while Jess and Tae is with me, she wouldn’t have any reasons to disagree. HAHAHA.

“The consent!!” I said while I wandered my hand inside my bag.

“You put it on your English notebook,” Jessi looked at me and I opened my English notebook and found it there.

“Thank you,” I smiled at her sweetly.

“KISS!!!” Taeyeon said as she teased us.

“Stop!” I slapped her on the arm and we went downstairs.

“Mum...?” I called through her room and found out she wasn’t there.

“Mum?” I called through the kitchen and she wasn’t also there, neither in the living room. Now, what to do?

“I guess she’s not home...” I sighed at the two.

“I’ll just let her sign this when we got home.” I said to them and they agreed. They’ll be sleeping over so they would be with me. Heeh.

“Anyway, did you two bring clothes?” I suddenly asked them while we walked outside.

“Yes,” Taeyeon answered.

“Just uniform,” Jessica answered and I looked at her.

“You’re planning in sleeping with what you wore the whole day?!”

“I guess,” She stared at me.

“...I’ll just go back home to get... some clothes... then...?” She slowly answered.

“We might enjoy shopping too much and we also planned to have dinner in the Supermarket Fany!” Taeyeon said irritatingly.

“How about you just lend her your clothes? It’s not that much of a big deal right??” She offered.

“Yea, Jessi. Don’t go home. I’ll just lend you my clothes.” I smiled at her.

“Thanks,” And Taeyeon suddenly elbowed her and I heard her whisper to Jessi, ‘You just scored’, putting a grin on Jessi’s face.

Man, these two.

*

“This!! And this, and this and this!!!” I said as I put cookies, tons of sodas and breads on the shopping cart.

“And this one too!” I then put cheese-flavoured junk food and Cadbury chocolates on it.

“Oh Fany!! Wouldn’t that be too much?” Taeyeon said while Jessi just chuckled. I looked at my shopping cart and it was already full of foods.

“Uhh,”

“We would just be staying there for two days and one night you know. Not the whole week.” She scowled.

“Uhh,” I eye-smiled at her as my glance shifted to the shopping cart of my girlfriend which was full of yogurts, milk, breads, apples, and ... water?!

“What are you Jessi? On a diet..!?” I asked her, intimidated by her shopping cart.

“These are my snacks,” She looked at me weirdly and Taeyeon made a sound that I can’t even comprehend.

We continued to stroll through the ‘Snacks Section’ to the ‘Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Section’ again of the market when I found something interesting for my Jessi.

“How about this love,” I suddenly grinned at Jessi and her face reddened as she shook her head.

“You don’t really want this..?” I further insisted as Taeyeon got oranges on the other side, not minding what the hell we are really doing.

“Uhh, no...” She was completely caught off guard when I placed the cucumber near her face.

“Don’t Fany-ah,” Oh, the sound of that ‘Fany-ah’ is just so sweeeeet.

“Repeat,” I commanded her as I continued tease her with the cucumber.

“Fany-ah, don’t.” She was now taking steps backward.

“Koochi-koochi-kooo,” I muttered as I suddenly put the cucumber on her ribs to tickle her.

“Wahhhh!!” Jessi was still taking steps back until she got cornered when her back bump the container of tomatoes.

“Koochi-koochi-koo,”

“Fany!!” I suddenly heard a man’s voice called my name. Not paying attention to whoever he might be, I continued to harass Jessi when he called me again.

“What?!” I said, irritated then my eyes widened.

“Fany!!” The guy smiled at me and I winced as I put the cucumber down.

“Wooyoung?!” I uttered in disbelief.

“Yea! You remembered me!!!” He suddenly put her hand on my shoulder and I was taken aback.

“Wooyoung!” Taeyeon came running while pushing the cart on our direction and we both looked at her.

“Nice to see you again!” Taeyeon said as she waved at him.

“How have you been?”

“Well, I’m fine and I just, well. I thought you might want to know that the camping site where you’ll be tomorrow is our family’s lot.” He sounded amused by himself.

“Oh, that’s good then! You look old!” Taeyeon joked and I could sense that Wooyoung frowned slightly at the comment. About him, well, he’s now in first year college. Taeyeon and I used to play with him when we were in first grade since our houses are just placed blocks away from each other... and well... uh....

“Nice to see Fany huh? Woo,” Taeyeon suddenly teased and I rolled my eyes.

“Yes, you’re looking prettier than usual.” He winked at me. Ugh, disgusting.

“Puppy love. Oh, those days, good times,” Taeyeon suddenly sighed and Wooyoung laughed half-heartedly.

“Yea, puppy love between Fany and I.” He winked at me again. And oh my God, to tell you the truth I didn’t even- well I’m just in first grade and I said to him that I have a crush on him and it’s just that- should I even take that seriously?! It’s just a crush!!!!!!!! DUH! Can children even be that serious to what they say? I meant God knows, it was years ago and I can’t even feel anything now. What I feel is that he looked like an ugly tomato whose personality is full of boastfulness!

But I can’t even utter a word because I’m too pissed off. This tinyTae is really I don’t effin’ know!!

“Anyway, I think I have to go then,” He suddenly said and I felt suddenly relieved.

“See you around,” He winked again at me after staring and waved at Taeyeon as he walked away.

I suddenly face-palmed myself...

Man... I looked behind me... and, well... Jessi is here beside us all along and I didn’t even bother to introduce my girlfriend to him!!! What to do, what to do!!!!!!!

I looked at her for a moment and smiled. God, she’s expressionless. I looked at Taeyeon and I could sense she felt guilty with what she had said a while ago because she was biting her lip!

“Jessi... I’m sorry.” I held her in the arm.

“I forgot to introduce you to him... uhh, childhood friend...” I uttered nervously.

“It’s okay,” She assured me but her face was blank.

After that we paid our groceries. Jessi wouldn’t even talk unless I try talking to her. Taeyeon too could feel the uneasy ambiance and can’t look at us. Why did I even forget to introduce her?! Then, when we were outside the supermarket, a black shining Honda Civic stood in front of us, honking at us. God, how inconvenient!!! The side window which was in front of us and Wooyoung smiled at us, I meant ‘at me’.

“You girls want a ride?” He suddenly offered glancing at my groceries which accumulated three bags while Jessi and Tae have only one each.

“No, we would just ride the taxi.” Jessi suddenly talked and I could tell she was pissed off.

“You sure, blondie?” Wooyoung blinked her eyes multiple times.

“Let’s go Fany and Taeyeon.” Jessi continued to walk, ignoring him, as we walk passed his car.

As we ride the taxi, Jessi uttered nothing and I am staring at her for quite long now. She is staring outside as the taxi pass houses, trees while ‘Poker Face’ is our annoying background music. Waiting for her to say something and for me to say something, the taxi suddenly halted to a stop and I just realized we’re now in front of my gate. Jessi brought out her scarlet wallet and paid for the fare.

“Wait, I’ll pay too,” I asked her and she just stared at me backing me off to pay even 0.01% of the taxi fare!! We rode the black one so it would be expensive but she didn’t even mind while Taeyeon was just keeping her lips shut.

After all of us had walked out of the taxi, I opened the lock of the gate when Jessi suddenly talked and I looked at her, intently.

“I won’t be able to sleep over in your house,” She put out her mobile phone and placed it in front of me.

“Relatives from other county just arrived a while ago and mother didn’t expect it. She asked me if I could postpone the sleepover and help her.” She said with a blank expression.

“Sorry,” She finally said but even so I don’t know if she was sincere or not... Was she just making up? I don’t know... I didn’t even bother to glance what was written on the mobile phone for I was busy with my thoughts, I was kind of hurt and I know, she was hurt too... But it’s not on purpose... really...

You readers believe me right?

“Me too, then...” Taeyeon was looking at the ground as she said the words. I know she was just guilty about what she has said awhile ago but Taeyeon likes to tease... I’ve known her like that and I know it’s not on purpose too, but just purely accidental.

“It’s okay,” I finally said though I could sense I’m literally disappointed.

“Here,” Jessi suddenly handed me my bag of grocery. She insisted that she be the one to bring one of my grocery bags...

“Bye..” She mumbled and she stared at me, her eyes meaning something that I couldn’t decipher...

“Bye then, see you guys tomorrow!” I tried to be as cheerful as before, before we saw that damn Wooyoung!!!!

Taeyeon waved at me and her face painted apology and I could only watch Jessi turn her back as both of then vanished into the darkness.

And when I reached my room, I laid myself on my bed and sighed deeply, staring at the ceiling.

Why did I ever forget to introduce Jessi? I know she really felt out of place, what have I done??!

After a few whining and battles with myself for minutes, I decided to call Jessi... When she has answered it, I muttered ‘Jessi’ on my phone and I could hear children yelling and old voices talking incessantly on the other line. So her relatives... did really come. ..

“Wait..” she said on the other line and the yelling subsided, all I could her were her long breaths on the other line.

“Jessi..” I uttered again and she didn’t speak.

“I love you...” Was all I could say as I buried my face on my knees as I held my mobile phone to my ear... Then there was silence...

“I love you too,” She said clearly and I could sense she was smiling by the way she said the words and I felt relieved.

“I love you more than you’ll ever know...” She spoke again and everything that happened a while ago seemed like just an illusion.

18 First Camping Trip

5:00 AM

As I opened my eyes slowly, I realized today is our camping trip so after stretching my body a bit, I hurriedly turned off my alarm clock and got my camping bag ready. Oh, should I really bring all these three bags of groceries? No Fany, you can’t, even if you love all of those Cadbury chocolates, junk foods and sodas.

After battling with myself with what should I bring, I decided I should bring healthy food after all, but all I’ve bought that would fall in the ‘healthy’ category are only breads. Okay, now... panic!!!!!!! I inhaled and exhaled, no don’t panic, we would be camping and we’ll going to eat healthy food by roasting chickens, fishes, veggies~ delicious~ and we would spend a night with a bonfire while heating hotdogs with marshmallows~ yummy~

I suddenly found myself daydreaming that I am laying my head on Jessi’s shoulder, our eyes lock at each other as the fire ignites in our eyes, reflected by the bonfire. Then, Jessi feeds me a hotdog with marshmallow on stick~ heaven~

Romantic...!

*snap*

Hey, Fany, you don’t want to be late, do you?

I shook my head and managed to control myself from daydreaming. I hurriedly change clothes and carried my bag downstairs when I suddenly realized that I’m the first one to wake up. Mum is still asleep. Uhh, okay, I’ll just leave a note to tell her I’ve gone camping already because I couldn’t be late... But then,

OMG, my consent!! Mum hasn’t signed it yet!! What if she wouldn’t sign it, she would literally talk to me for hours about all the details, even the smallest ones, about this camping trip!!! Wait, okay I have an idea!!! HI-HI-HI.

I got the consent in my room. Goodness, I nearly forgot it!!! I hurriedly went to my mother’s room and saw she was still asleep.

“Mum,” I greeted her sweetly and no reaction.

“Mum, I have to go,” I whispered to her sweetly and she flinched, nodding while her eyes were still close.

“Here, sign it. I have to go to uhh...”

“Class representatives should do this...” I finally said which I think doesn’t make any sense. I just muttered anything I could think of! Mum raised her hands upward, motioning me to give her the pen while her eyes were still close.

She half-opened her eyes while signing the consent.

“Mum, I’m going to sleep at Taeyeon’s and I would be returning tomorrow.” I explained to her and she was nodding incessantly even if I just said the word ‘mum’. Then after awhile she closed her eyes again, dropped her body onto the bed and started snoring.

What the...?

Did she even understand a thing? Okay, whatever. The good thing is that I’m going to the camping trip now!! Yay! I went outside the room and stared at the signed consent. WHAT IS THIS? I stared at my mother’s signature which looked like scribbles. This is not her real signature!! They wouldn’t know, would they? I shrugged and just kept the consent inside my pocket.

I excitedly opened the door when I found Jessi outside the gate with her bicycle. I was surprised.

“Hi, just in time.” She smiled at me. “Good morning,”

“Good morning! You haven’t told me you’ll fetch me...” I pouted.

She got out of the bicycle and stood in front me.

“It’s a surprise.” She said while grinning at me and she kissed me on the cheek and I slapped her on the arm.

“Ouch,” She said.

“Don’t steal kisses!” I scolded her.

“But you like it, don’t you?” She teased as one of her eyebrows raised.

“Yes I do,” I teased her too and she chuckled.

“We should go now, bus would be leaving at six.” She was smiling as she said it and we got onto the bicycle... and as I put my hands on her waist, I could feel again that feeling I’ve felt the very first time. A sudden rush of emotions I couldn’t even tell which is which, my heart was beating fast yet again. And just like before, she held my hands and put them into place. The sweet smell of her perfume getting into my brain, making me crazy...

As soon as we travelled towards school, passing houses and trees while the asphalt on the road touched the bicycle’s tires, silence grew between us and I was embracing her from behind, my head rested on her back as my hair waved through the cold air. Watching the tires touched the road, I like it all of it... Especially when the air touches not only my hair but also my face, it felt nice like I was defying the laws of time...

“Fany,” She uttered through the silence.

“Yes..?” I looked through her nape as my chin glided through the small of her back.

“Have you asked your mother to sign your consent?” She asked.

“Yes,” I smiled and rested my head on her back again.

“Did you bring me?” She then chuckled but I didn’t really get her.

“What!? You’re with me..?” I said, confused.

“I meant the Barbie doll,” She now let out a musical laugh and I scowled.

“No,” I was irritated then suddenly felt the need to lead her on.

“Because I want the real one,”

She stopped the bicycle and I just noticed we had already reached school. I thought she stopped because of what I have said earlier. We got out of the bicycle and soon enough we could see Taeyeon, Hyoyeon, Sunny and Yuri from a distance.

“The real one is with you already,” I looked at her and she said it with a bubbly face, I smiled shyly and she slipped her hand through mine. The two of us walking hand in hand, towards the other girls, and I could feel everyone staring at us. Oh man, this is just sort of embarrassing but at the same time, it’s sweet...

The four girls waved at us as I distinguished that the bus was just behind them. I AM JUST SO EXCITED!!! Nyyaaaaaaaaa~

And I just realized Jessi didn’t bring any bags with her?! What...?

I stared at my bag pack and looked at Jessi.

“You didn’t bring anything..?” I suddenly feared that Jessi might not come with us, if so then, I wouldn’t come too...

“Uhh..” She uttered and I could feel disappointment envelop me.

“Jessi’s things are already inside.” Yuri pointed on the bus.

“She insisted she wanted to fetch you... even though we told us you’d be fine and you’ll not be late.” She smirked at us.

“You travelled from your house to here then back at my house then...”

“...back at here again?” I now looked at Jess and she just nodded.

“Oh,” I cannot even know what to say to her. Isn’t this a bit too much? I mean her efforts are just too much... I sometimes think I’m no match with what she had already done for me... and it makes me heart beat a little faster everytime.

“It’s not a big deal really,” She smiled at me.

“C’mon, bus would be leaving soon,” Taeyeon was already inside the bus. Her head could be seen through the windows. Man, she’s fast! How the hell did she managed to go inside without me noticing. Err... ninja.

*

“Now, give me your consents,” The adviser announced inside the bus and I got my own. Jessi stared at my consent and I stared back at her.

“What?” I asked her as she continued to stare.

“Is that your mother’s signature?” She pointed on the scribbles that looked like it had been done by a kindergartner.

“Uhh, yes...” I answered.

“Oh, okay.” She looked away and I could sense she was controlling her laugh and we passed our consents. Maybe she was thinking I purged it or what!!!

*

We travelled through highways and as soon as we reached the mountains, my classmates got hyper and Seohyun (Jessi’s cousin which I just noticed again and just now) was singing the opening song of ‘Sergeant Keroro’ on top of her lungs over and over again and my classmates was like, they’re singing with her too!! (Well, there’s a karaoke installed onto the bus’ television.) Just what the...? And I couldn’t even imagine that throughout our trip, Jessi was asleep! Her head lying on my shoulder, and I could smell her raspberry shampoo, that blonde hair... (I really hope that when the two of us got time to be ‘alone’, I could finally run my hands through her blonde hair.... gosh~) She was not even bothered or disturbed by her cousin’s ‘ultimate favourite song’. And I suddenly found myself sticking my earphones into my ears to never hear Seohyun’s voice again.

When we reached the mountains where we would be camping, our new class adviser (because the previous one had been overdosed because of eating too much pudding, ehe!) told us that we should be in pairs inside the tent and Taeyeon told me that I should ‘spend’ the trip wisely with Jessi. And the way she sounded was like we would be doing something inside the tent. This micro organism hasn’t learned her lessons! Hmf.

“Wow, this tent is really only for two people.” Yuri said as they assembled their own tent.

“Look, Tiffany, we’ve finished assembling the tent!!HA-HA-HA!” Yuri was so proud that she danced around and I just frowned. But, suddenly their tent fell over, making me laugh hard.

“Taeyeon!!!” Yuri complained and my best friend stared at her blankly.

“You should be the one to assemble it by your own now!” Taeyeon said, irritated by the fact that when Yuri was dancing around, she made the tent fell over.

“Okay, boss mini!” Yuri said and Taeyeon balled her hand into a fist making Yuri froze to her place.

“I didn’t mean ‘mini’ as in small, I meant ‘meanie’ as in something who’s mean!” Yuri said defensively.

“You don’t want to mess with someone who just made muscles at the gym yesterday, do ya?” Yuri raised her eyebrows while proudly letting us see her thin arms. Nothing had changed with her arms, really. And Taeyeon showed her thin arms at her too! These two are just so weird and I can’t stop laughing.

“Give me the rope,” Jessi declared as I could see sweat dripping from her forehead. Sexy.

“You don’t really want me to help?” I asked her for the third time as she wiped her sweat by her hand.

"Here,” I got my handkerchief and wiped her face... Her eyes staring at me intently... I think I would melt again, I am always melting!!!!!

“Awww~ so sweet~” Taeyeon emerged in front of us and hugged herself romantically as she closed her eyes. Jessi frowned and Taeyeon left. I laughed at the idea that Jessi still intimidates her.

“Hey, you don’t want me to help?” I scooted near her as she tied the rope for support.

“It’s finish,” She said proudly at me and she put our things inside.

“Give me the sleeping mats.” I carried it towards her and she arranged them inside and I followed her.

“There,” She stared at me and I just stared at her too. Our faces suddenly became inches apart. Nobody would see us... we’re inside the tent... so, uhh...

I leaned forward.

“Wow nice tent!!” Sunny surprised us by opening the zipper of our tent and I scratched my head while Jessi looked away.

Sunny, the interrupter! Readers, remember what she did on the School Fest!!!!

“Thanks,” I replied.

“Adviser wants to talk with you two, by the way.” She smiled and zipped the tent again.

“Let’s go Jessi.” I got out and Jessi followed me. The adviser just told us that we should assemble our classmates six o’clock in the evening because we would be visiting the rainforest near our campsite and we would visit it again tomorrow after breakfast to list down the types of trees and soils that could be found here. Oh, science!!!!

In the meantime we visited the stream nearby and caught some fishes for our lunch. Jessi was holding my hand all throughout because she said I might slip through the rocks. Talk about ClumsyFany.

“Nice catch!!!” Sunny beamed at Hyoyeon who caught a big fish. Wow, amazing!!

“Nice catch girls,” I glanced around from where the voice was coming and saw Wooyoung (MAN!!! I SWEAR, THE EARTH SHOULD JUST EAT HIM ALIVE!!) was wearing violet sunglasses as his mouth curled into an ugly smirk.

“Fany!!” He waved at me and Jessi squeezed my hand as I smile awkwardly back at him.

“Caught anything with blondie?” He raised an eyebrow, not even looking at Jessi.

“Her name is Jessica,” I frowned.

“Oh, hi there blondie,” He looked at Jessi as his eyes wandered at her from head to foot. What’s his problem?

“It’s Jessica,” Jessi said and I know she was trying to control herself.

“Okay,” He said and stared at me.

“Fany, are you free tonight?”

“No, we would be visiting the rainforest this evening.” I told him and just realized why should we even visit the rainforest at evening?! Isn’t that dangerous?!

“Oh, see you tonight then. I would be there too,” He winked at me and Jessi grumbled something I didn’t get to hear. Wooyoung stared at Jessi and frowned back at her.

“Bye, pretty.” Wooyoung waved at me and left. Oh sheesh, he actually thinks I still fancy him isn’t it???? Oh man, I’ll say straight to his face that I don’t when we see each other again! Disgusting guy!!!

I looked at Jessi and I noticed she let go of my hand and was now catching fishes on her own.

“Jessi,” I uttered. Not again~ I don’t really understand Jessi sometimes...

She glanced back at me and her palms opened, reaching for mine, pulling me closer to her when she suddenly splashed water on my face.

“What are you doing?” I stared at her and she was grinning at me. Oh, so she wants to play!!! Grr, here I come!!! We splashed water at each other and I run after her through the slow current of the stream. Then after awhile, Taeyeon, Yuri, Hyo and Sunny joined us. Each of us laughing as fishes touched our feet.

“You had a good time?” Jessi said as she take a bite from the grilled fishes we caught a while ago and I grinned at her and she put her arms on my waist, (that electrifying current~) all of us are still wet because we played at the stream.

“I don’t know Fany is not really that clumsy!” Sunny suddenly uttered and all of us laughed.

“Hey, she didn’t slip through the stream. I’m serious!” Sunny frowned and we laughed some more.

“Coz she’s dense! Dense is different with being clumsy, Sunny.” Hyoyeon barged in and Taeyeon clapped her hands, entertained by Hyo. Now, I want to get a shark and put Tae’s face inside it.

*

“So maybe you guys are wondering why we should go to the rainforest at evening,” The adviser started to explain things.

“There are certain trees and plants that only appear in the evening.” She concluded at us. What are those plants anyway, glow in the dark plants? Err.

“And as we travel through the forest, please turn on your flashlights and don’t ever wander on your own.” And we all nodded at her.

“Don’t worry, we would only be staying here for about thirty minutes or so because we would just be looking at the plants that are only present in the evening.” She smiled at us in assurance and we started to walk.

“Here, this is the....”

I couldn’t really hear our adviser’s voice because it’s not that loud and we were at the back! I looked at Taeyeon who was busy taking down notes. (Heeh, I don’t have anything to worry about) And then my glance shifted to Jessi who looked sleepy and she looked back at me too and yawned.

“Sleeping beauty,” I mumbled at her and she stared at me with her blank face.

“Poker face,” I rolled my tongue out to tease her and she continued to stare at me with her blank face.

“Hey, I’m just kidding!” I pouted and she laughed softly.

“I’m kidding too.” She smiled and put her attention to our adviser and from a distance I could see Wooyoung smiling at me. Goddamn it, curse him! Eew.

Then I suddenly felt something poke the heel of my toe.

Oh my gosh, I hope it’s not bugs, please.

I slowly stared downward and cute pinkish mushrooms caught my eyes, I sit up and stared at them.

“Wow!” I uttered softly by myself and restricted myself from touching them. Our adviser told us to not touch plants or fungi that we don’t know! They might be poisonous!

Then suddenly I heard scratching sounds, I glanced and saw two cute squirrels wrestling each other. I want to take pictures of them!!!!!!!!

“Choo~ choo~” I tried calling them. I raised my digital camera to take their pictures but then they run away and found myself chasing them! I looked back and still saw Jessi’s back. Then, seeing the squirrels run again, I followed them. I should not chase them but I did!! Then suddenly they went inside the bark of a tree and realized that I’m all alone now. 'Choo-Choo'? These aren't dogs, right? Uhh, whatever!

What did I do!

I glanced around and saw nothing and no one but darkness. How the hell did I make it here?! I started to walk, following the directions I thought I could have passed by awhile ago.

But I kept on finding myself seeing nothing but darkness... I wandered again... then it struck me... I am lost....

“Jessi,” I whispered to myself while all I could see are scary looking trees. I shouldn’t have followed those cute squirrels!!!

I sat on the ground and buried my face on my knees.

“Jessi,” I raised my head and found no one but me. I suddenly felt tears dripping down my cheeks. I am lost, what should I do now?? I sobbed harder then after a moment, I could hear thunder and lightning rolling into the night sky.

I covered my ears and cried more.

“Jessi...” I put my hand on my pocket hoping I brought my mobile phone but then I remembered, our adviser told us to not bring valuables... *sobs*

Thunder filled the silence again and drops of rain started to land on me.

“...” I buried myself on my knees again. What should I do now?

Then suddenly a light landed on my face, making me raise my head towards the person holding the flashlight. I stood up and felt a sting of hope inside me.

“Jessi!” I beamed but then her shoulders is not this broad, and how come Jessi had been taller? Oh no, it’s Wooyoung!!!!!!!!!

No!! What should I really do? The drops of the rain got bigger! Maybe it’s not bad at all, we would just be going back to the camping site then I’ll thank him and that’s it.

“It’s me pretty,” Wooyoung grinned at me, his white teeth showing off their perfection which I couldn’t even see.

I covered myself with my hands from the droplets of the rain that’s getting bigger. My digital camera!!!!

“Are you lost?” He suddenly asked me, his expression turning into a worried one.

“Yes,” I uttered.

“Let’s go back to the camping site,” I shivered at the cold droplets of the rain. I suppose he knew how to go back, right.

“I’m lost too, Fany...” I saw his lips frowning but I don’t even know if he was lying or what!!! I know this is their lot, he couldn’t be lost! Could he?!!

“What should we do now!?” I panicked. I don’t want to be alone with him, here in the middle of the rainforest!!!!

He then walked towards me, positioning his self nearer. He put his jacket over my head.

“I don’t know... I left my phone...” He stared at me and I looked away, thinking that I should just runaway!!!

“We should try finding the way out!” I said desperately.

“No, we should just stay.” He was still looking at me and I winced. This is not good.

“There could be wild animals lurking around at night.”

“But,” I tried to argue then he put his hands on my shoulders.

“Let’s just spend the night here.” WHAT?! IS HE SERIOUS??!! I felt like I’m with a maniac or something! And I wanted to remove his hands on my shoulder but I can’t, he was staring at me and he might find that rude. Jessi, I hope Jessi would arrive, please. I found myself praying then after awhile I could now feel his arms touching mine. What is he doing!!!! I looked at him and he was already looking at me. I would kick him if he tries to even touch me again, I swear!!

He continued to stare at me then he grabbed my arms as the rain fell towards us.

“Let go,” I uttered at him, he’s pissing me off.

“No, why are you even trying to fake it?” He uttered and I opened my mouth slightly.

“Why are you still trying to hide the fact that you like me?” He inched towards me again and I took a step back. His other hand grabbed my other arm, he pushed me and pinned me to the nearby tree. Oh God.

And I would be kicking him when we suddenly heard sound from the trees. We both looked at it, and I looked at it, hoping it would be Jessi but then he held my chin upward, turning my guards down.

Kick him, Fany!!!

“You like me, I know it.” He uttered then he stared at my lips. I couldn’t even kick him now. His other hand’s grip is so strong that it makes me weak. As he inched nearer, I closed my eyes, disgusted with what he would do then just in time, I heard someone panting from a distance, and in the corner of my eye I saw Jessi... she was staring at us, and Wooyoung suddenly let go of me.

She was panting hard as if she ran miles and Wooyoung stared at her. Her hair and her whole body were wet from the rain. Jessi looked at him then at me, her expression was again, blank... She started to walk towards me and when she was near me she stared at Wooyoung, her eyes were fierce, scary and cold. She looked back at me and grabbed my hand.

“Let’s go,” She said and pulled me away from him, and she also removed his jacket on my head, tossing it on the ground. Her grip on my hand was hard, and I know she was angry. Maybe she thought I was literally flirting with him but not!! I didn’t and I’m not planning to!!! But seeing me in that position with Wooyoung... I guess she thought I was... I know I should explain...

We walked faster as the droplets of rain fell down on us. She didn’t even talk, never did I. I was afraid that she might yell at me but through it all, she was gripping on my hand tight, that it hurts... and when we finally reached the tent she let go of my hand and went inside. I stood frozen into place and wandered my eyes around and saw Taeyeon who was walking towards me.

“What happened to you? We thought some bear had eaten you already!” She said as she looked worried.

“I got lost...” I said, exhausted.

“Good thing you’re safe and Jessica found you. You got us really worried!” Taeyeon said and Yuri emerged from the tent too, hugging me and said she was too worried she can’t eat. (Was she serious? Err)

“Thanks,”

“Jessica kept on blaming herself because she fell asleep while standing... She didn’t notice you’ve gone... Where’s sleep-bystander Jessica anyway?” Yuri continued while glancing around and her words hurt, Jessi blamed her self...

“She went inside...” I uttered, melancholy could be traced on my voice.

“Did something happen?” Taeyeon asked, her eyes looking at me intently.

“Wooyoung tried to kiss me and Jessi might have thought I was flirting around but I’m not... He cornered me...” I stared at Taeyeon for help. I told her everything then my best friend held my hand and called Yuri back. She whispered something to Yuri that I didn’t really get what and then they suddenly pushed me inside our tent.

“Hey!” I called out to them but they put something in front of the tent, making it impossible for me to get out. I looked behind me and Jessi was... half-naked, I could see her collar bones but a shirt and blanket covered the rest.

“Pervert,” She stared at me coldly and I looked away.

I banged the object that was blocking my way out.

“Jessi is changing clothes!!” I yelled at them but I couldn’t hear voices anymore.

“Yuri! Taeyeon!!!” I sighed and then I could suddenly hear the rustling of the blankets, I turned around and saw Jessi putting a blanket over her body and she already wore pajamas.

“Are you angry?” I asked her as I sit on the sleeping mat, just inches away from her.

“No,” She’s not giving me eye contact.

I sighed again and stared at her. I moved closer and held her on the arm then she removed it.

“You are angry?”

“No,”

“I’m sleeping.” She uttered as her back faced me.

I tugged her blanket, afraid that if I would try to touch her, she would remove my hand again.

“Jessi,” I uttered then when I got no reaction. I looked at her face and her eyes were now closed. I put the blanket over myself and flipped on the opposite side, our backs facing each other.

I couldn’t even sleep, I opened my mobile phone and it was already eleven o’clock. Everyone must be having fun outside with the bonfire, while I was stuck in here, gathering strength to apologize to her... where did my bonfire dream went? I sighed. As much as I would like to think that Jessi was not angry, I know she is... even if she tried to keep it... I should explain to her... it’s not like I want that to happen in the first place... I sighed again, I feel sick thinking about it... Her being angry is not like her at all, it’s different... and it was the first time... and I don’t know what to do...

I suddenly felt tears touching my cheeks and I wiped them, trying to restrain them from reaching my chin... I can’t sleep so I decided to sit up... and I looked at Jessi again...

“Jessi,” I said softly, hoping that she was still awake and she glanced at me... through the darkness, I could still see her cold eyes lingering on my face... She couldn’t sleep too...

“Are you ang---“

“You should sleep, we would still need---“

“What do you want?” She suddenly cut herself off and her tone got higher...

“You,” I replied and she flipped, her eyes intently staring at me.

“You should sleep, we’ve got to wake up early tomorrow,”

“I said I want you,” I uttered again and silence suddenly engulfed us... I gave up and tried to sleep again... and I closed my eyes, letting the tears bring me to slumber.

Rays of light suddenly entered my eyes and I slowly opened them and I felt something on my waist. I looked down and Jessi was embracing me from behind... I think I would melt all over again... I flipped, facing her sleeping face as I put my hand over hers, which was resting calmly on my waist...Her sleeping face is just so pretty in the morning, angelic as I may have called it but it’s more than that, and unable to control myself, I traced her jaw-line with my fingertips. I travelled down to her collarbones when her eyes opened. I stopped. She stared at me coldly and I smiled sweetly at her, she have forgiven already right? She removed her hands on my waist and sat up, she is still angry but she was embracing me all night!?

“About Wooyoung, it’s not what you think...” I trailed off and she just stared at me. She stood up and went outside the tent without a word. I followed her, calling her name multiple times but she didn’t even look back, even once. This is hard, cold war... I felt like crying again...

“Let’s eat breakfast,” She suddenly uttered at me as she sat across the wooden tables.

“Good morning Fany and Jessica!!” Yuri greeted cheerfully in the morning while Taeyeon looked like she hasn’t slept at all.

“Tae, are you all right?” I stared at her and she frowned.

“I HAVEN’T SLEPT AT ALL LAST NIGHT BECAUSE YURI’S FEET KEPT LANDING ON MY FACE!!!” She suddenly complained as she punched Yuri several times.

“Sorry!! I didn’t really mean it and I don’t know it!!” Yuri argued.

“Anyway, how are you two?” Yuri looked at Jessi and me and I just smiled awkwardly at her.

“Still in cold war?” Taeyeon whispered and sighed.

“You’re not really good at confrontations,” She finally said.

“I know,” I gave up.

“Then she wouldn’t understand if you don’t explain,”

“Yeah...”

“Then go,” Taeyeon pushed me through the wooden table, telling me to sit beside Jessi.

“Hmmm delicious~” Yuri put her plate on our table when Taeyeon grabbed her away and I heard her say, ‘The two needs some time alone’ and they sat with Hyo and Sunny on the other side of the camping site.

I looked at Jessi who was now eating, how could she even manage to eat when she’s treating me coldly..?

“Jessi,” I tried and she stared at me, her expression was unreadable.

“Look, about what you see last night---“

“Hey there pretty,” Wooyoung suddenly emerged in front of us and winked at me. Jessi made an uneasy sound and continued to eat, her eyes looking away from us. Why is he always emerging like Sunny? Gosh, I wanna punch him in the face!!!

“What?!” I said, pissed off by the fact that he is the reason behind all of this.

“Fany, would you like to---“

“Look, Wooyoung,” I started, now having the strength to bust him.

“If you think I fancy you, well I don’t.” I stared at him.

“And I wouldn’t ever again.” His mouth was opened slightly to his surprise.

“Hell no, not with your arrogant and ugly personality... And mind you,” I held Jessi’s hand and raised it so that he could see.

“I already have a girlfriend.” I smirked at him and he stared at us. Didn’t know what to do, he just stood frozen in place. Jessica suddenly stood up and faced him.

“You know what I really wanted to do to you?” Jessi stared at him coldly.

“This!” She suddenly punched Wooyoung in the nose and blood started dripping down as he held it. Unable to say something, he just walked away with his eyes wide open and he looked like he was near tears.

“Coward,” Jessi held her chin up and sat on the table again. Then, she suddenly glanced around, making sure our adviser didn’t see anything. But our classmates saw and they pretended to not see anything. HA-HA-HA!

I looked back at Jessi and she was staring at me. Feeling lighter at the fact that I’ve already explained clearly and dumped ugly Woo away, I told four words that meant a lot for me.

“I’m only for you,” I stared at her and her lips suddenly form a smile. Man, I miss it...

“Sorry,” She suddenly uttered.

“I got angry because...” She was explaining and I don’t need any of it, what matters is that we’re in good terms again... right?

“I blamed myself... I-I...” I know she’s not good with words..

“I am all jealous everytime you’re with him...” She looked down the plate then stared at my eyes, searching for something.

“I wandered all around the forest just to find you.... got so worried about you... then I just found and thought you’re flirting around with him...”

“He pinned me to the tree and all throughout last night, I was wishing you’d arrive earlier than him. It’s not like that ‘puppy love’ is ever the same with the way I feel about you...”

"If he touched you again, I swear I’ll break his nose again,”

Then she smiled at me. I don’t know but it was just touching, the way she said those words... It felt like I would never felt pain again...

“Sorry, I should have not followed the squirrels and got lost,” And we both laughed, I glanced at Taeyeon and Yuri and they were grinning at us. Yuri even punched in the air, mimicking what Jessi had done to Wooyoung awhile ago when she suddenly hit Tae’s nose because of the force. It made Taeyeon angry that she ran after Yuri with a fork!! (Good thing, Tae’s nose didn’t bleed) But then, I stared at Hyoyeon who brought a dumbbell, practicing early in the morning for Sooyoung’s competition. Heeh.

19 First One

Why am I so lazy, as in so, so, so, so lazy today?!

I stretched my feet up to the end of the bed so that I would feel my muscles rejuvenate but I’m still lazy like I cat who needs another ten hours of sleep! Today would be the start of the practice for the Sports Festival. Okay, I’m not really good in sports, but Jessi insisted that we should join the Soccer Competition!!! (I dun even know how to kick a damn ball so I wonder how would I even send it in the goal post!*sigh*) While Yuri and Taeyeon joined the wrestling competition (I wonder how ill their thin bodies look like after wrestling), Sunny and Hyo listed themselves for volleyball and I heard from Yoona herself that she would be playing basketball which drove Yul and Tae angry like a mad dog (Yoona kept on hugging me every time she get the chance to see me!!!). And there would be competition between class sections. So, each class should have players in ball games like volleyball, basketball, soccer, blah, blah and blah that we should join, win them and get the trophy plus incentives from our teachers.

I’m still lazy.

But, Fany, Jessi is with you when you practice.

Yes, but maybe she would laugh at me when she saw me tripping at my own two feet! DUH!

But she will teach you...

Uhhhmm...

And Fany, think about practicing with Jessi...

Practice...

Oh, I suddenly thought of kissing sessions... oooh...

Fany... her lips...

I stared at the ceiling and my eyes went dreamy but then another voice shouted in my mind. What the..?!

FANY!!! PRACTICE! AS IN SOCCER PRACTICE!!! WHAT THE HELL?!!!

I shook my head in embarrassment. When did I start to be like this? What am I thinking!!! Oh no, this is not good. I’m feeling ‘Jessi’s-kisses-deprived’. Our last kiss was yesterday and the other day and the day before that... but, but... all her kisses were only on my cheeks. *cries* Now, talk about not being able to get one of my basic needs in life... *cries harder*

I suddenly stared at my alarm clock which is placed on my bedside table and noticed it was already ‘22:22’ in the morning. 22:22?! Damn alarm clock, broken!! I dragged my body lazily as I sat up on the bed, starting today we would be having irregular classes. HA-HA-HA, I pinched Totoro’s cheek which was lying comfortably beside me. And oh, only about four days left before the Sports Festival. Then as I lazily (yea readers, you’ll read the word ‘lazy’ millions of times here ‘coz I’m lazy as hell) stood up from my bed, I heard something on my window.

Why is someone throwing stones at my window?!

Maybe just some random birds...

But then, I heard the thud sound on my window again.

Man, annoying!

I furrowed my eyebrows, and walked towards the window. Hell, whoever this person is, I’m going to shout straight into his or her face!!! I angrily opened the curtains, scowling at the person below when I noticed it was Jessi.

WHAT?!

It’s Jessi, Fany!

Oh! My brain hasn’t been processing faster lately.

My frowned expression turned into an annoyed one as she smirked back at me. She was caught in the act! I could see a rock inside her right hand!!! Why is she so early, anyway!

"Hey! Why are you throwing rocks at my window..?"

"To wake you up!!" She shouted back at me.

"That’s very impolite!" I scowled at her further and she just chuckled. Why does she look so cheerful today though?!

"No, it’s not!" She yelled again and I shut the curtains hard!!! I’m not in the mood! I already told myself that I would go to school at eight o’clock!

"Fany-ah!!" She threw another rock at my window and I opened my curtains again.

"What?!"

"I love you!!!!" She shouted suddenly and my eyes widened. Oh my God, the whole neighbourhood might hear it! And mother too!!! I shut the curtains again and blinked my eyes multiple times. What the hell is happening to her?! She is acting so weird!!!

I hurriedly do my morning routine and changed to my gym clothes. This is Jessi’s fault! I should be taking a bath for one hour~ Then, as I went down the stairs, I could hear sounds coming from the television. What the heck is mum doing? Isn’t it a bit too early for television, she should do household chores, isn’t it?!

Whatever,

As I put my shoes on my feet, I noticed that mum’s legs were a bit whiter than usual, and her hair is blonde.

Maybe, she used skin whitening.

I shrugged and as I went forward, WHAT THE HECK IS THIS?!

HER HAIR IS BLONDE???!

"Jessi?!!!!" I suddenly trailed off and she chuckled at me again. "Feeling at home, aren’t you???" I glared at her. "Where’s mum..?"

"Your mother had already left," She smiled at me.

"Left..? Where..?"

"Uhh, market,"

"How did you know?"

"I was already here at six o’clock in the morning and since I insisted that I should be waiting for you, your mother told me that I could stay here until you wake up." She said coolly.

"So..?"

"So, when I got bored. I threw stones at your window to wake you up."

"Then..?"

"I just shouted at the whole neighbourhood that I love my girlfriend. But then she shut her curtains at me and now, she’s in front of me. Oh, I do think she is currently interrogating me about feeling at home in her own house." Her face was blank. WHAT THE F...?! Then I raised an eyebrow at her, she stood up and approached me. Her hands suddenly ran through my hair and I can’t move. She’s really acting weird, uhhnn...

"Uhh," I suddenly uttered as I stared at her.

"I love you," She suddenly said, her eyes let me fell deeper as a gentle smile was drawn upon her face.

"I love you too," I leaned closer and she embraced me.

"Let’s go?" She told me after we parted.

"Yes..."

"Are you frowning?" She suddenly asked me.

"I’m not," I stared at her and she kissed me on my forehead.

Just a kiss in the forehead..?!

"You’re still frowning..?" She stared at me again.

"Am I?" I pointed at myself. When would she kiss me on the lips again?!

I sighed.

"Did you just sigh?" She asked me again and I just stared at her. "Never mind, let’s go." She grabbed my hand as we went to school with her bicycle.

*

"One, two, three, stretch! One, two, TWENTY-TWO, stretch!!" We saw Yuri and the gang as they do morning exercises at the soccer field. They stopped when they saw us and approached us, excitedly. How come someone would be excited in joining wrestling anyway?

Anyway, ‘twenty-two’..? It should be ‘three’ right..?

"Why you look so sad, Fany..?" Taeyeon poked me on the cheek as I look at her. "You’re not feeling well?" She further asked.

Taeyeon then raised an eyebrow at Jessi which made her flinched a bit. My best friend went closer to her and stared at her in the eyes.

"What," Jessi said as she was taken aback.

"Did you two fight again?"

"No,"

"Why is Fany like this?"

"I don’t know. I have no idea."

"You are her girlfriend! You should have an idea!"

"I just woke her up earlier than she wanted..." Jessi glanced at me and I pouted at her. Taeyeon’s eyes narrowed as she stared at our hands, which were intertwined with each other.

"Widen your patience Jessica." She tapped Jessi’s shoulder and whispered something that I didn’t hear. What did she just tell Jessi now? Maybe, she told her I’m on my menopausal period or something like that. Pff, tinyTaeyeon!! Grrr.

"Fany is having mood swings so early in the morning. I hope she’ll remember something though." Taeyeon then rolled her eyes at me as she returned to Yuri and the gang.

"Remember what?" I asked her and she rolled her eyes again. What should I even remember? That I should practice soccer with Jessi? Of course I know that, DUH. Remember what then..? It doesn’t make any sense!!! Taeyeon is speaking metaphors again. Ugh, I hate this.

I looked at Jessi for any other clues but she just stared at me. Maybe she doesn’t have a clue too. Hmm, never mind.

"Anyway, you two want to join us with the morning exercises?" Yuri offered as she rotated her hips clockwise then counter-clockwise. While Taeyeon, Sunny and Hyoyeon followed her routine at the back, counting numbers. And I swear, they looked like penguins in my eyes.

"Uhh, Fany, want to join them?" Jessi asked me as she pointed at Yuri and the gang who are now rotating their heads. (Take note readers, they are only rotating their heads half circularly unlike their hips!!)

"Are you even sure what you’re asking me?" I looked at Jessi in disbelief and she nodded. I looked back at Yuri and the gang who are now rolling their eyes.

WHAT?!

Is rolling your eyes part of a morning routine?! What the heck, they’re almost rotating all the parts of their bodies!! *gasp*

I stared back at Jessi again whose mouth is wide open now, while her eyes looked so sleepy.

"I guess you shouldn’t take in consideration my offer awhile ago." She finally said and I nodded.

"Uhh, Yuri?" What happened to them now? They stood there frozen into place with their mouths wide open. Oh my God, did their jaws locked because of too much rotation? This is bad, think about how the school clinic would be crowded.

"Sooyoung-unnie," They said in unison as all of their eyes suddenly sparkled, Jessi and I looked at where they were staring and we saw Sooyoung running in slow motion, winking at them as she waves her hand. What is this, she looked so bright!! Whatta radiant being~ Jessica and I suddenly got dizzy as her pheromones envelope all of us.

"Sooyoung-unnie..." The girls said in unison again as they compress together. They looked like they just managed to reach heaven!! I thank my body and Jessi’s body that Sooyoung’s pheromones only make us dizzy, not like these fangirls out here who looked like they just saw a goddess.

"Ahhhh~" All of the fangirls said at once as Sooyoung left the scene, her radiance vanishing bit by bit.

"Uhh, let’s go Jessi." I tugged her sleeves and she nodded as we left the scene. The four girls still stood there, each one of them savouring the moment when Sooyoung’s pheromones hit them.

This is insane.

But as we walked further, what we saw was Yoona who was walking towards us, grinning like a child.

"Not good," I glanced at Jessi and she stared back at me. Another weirdo on the way...

"Not really good," She replied and suddenly I could feel Yoona’s hug. And damn, she’s clinging like a koala all over again!!!

"Uhh, Yoona," I uttered.

"You’re my twenty-second hug again!" She said as we parted and she embraced Jessi too.

Twenty-second..?

As I rolled my eyes, I could feel Jessi was looking at me intently. I looked at her and she looked away. Now, she’s acting weird too.

"By the way, you guys like my jersey?" She paraded us her scarlet jersey which was numbered ‘seven’ and the word ‘Im’ was sewed on the back.

"Yea," Jessi nodded out of interest.

"Sooyoung said she would teach me how to play basketball!!" She beamed at us and my eyes widened. Isn’t that illegal? I mean, Yoona and Sooyoung seeing each other like this. If Yuri and the others will know about this, they might bald Yoona!!!!

"Ehhhhh?" I answered her and she suddenly put her hand on her own mouth.

"This is... this is a secret, okay?" She told us and suddenly run away.

"Sooyoung is really a player!" I said angrily.

"Because she is a basketball player," Jessi grinned at me and I looked at her irksomely.

"Are you kidding me?" I raised my eyebrows and she answered me with a blank face.

"Okay, you win." I tapped her at the back as she continued to stare at me like that. I glanced around our surroundings, contented that we reached the back of the school campus and nobody’s here, I kissed her on the cheek and she was taken aback by my sudden action. Talk about me not being able to resist... but I still want a kiss on the lips...

"So sudden," She pouted at me.

"When did you learn how to pout?" I interrogated her and she pouted further. HA-HA-HA, she’s just so cute!!! I wanna pinch her cheeks and those lips, so cute!

"You look so cute!" I bit my lip as I was resisting myself while I pinched one of her cheeks softly.

"I won’t pout again then." She started to walk.

"Eh? Jessi!" I called her back as I started to walk too.

"Pout please," I pouted at her.

"You’re cuter than me," She hastily put her forehead on mine. Oh man, this is it... this is it... kiss... our kiss... I smiled as I could feel that warm feeling on her forehead.

She put her hand on my shoulder and her hands went up, caressing my hair slowly as we stared back at each other’s eyes. She smiled back at me too. I leaned closer as I stared on her lips. That feeling, I feel like my heart would escape from my chest anytime now. Our lips were just inches apart and I could feel my own lips trembling just like the very first time. It’s different, this is different and this is what I like. Most of the time, all our kissed on the lips were only smacks... but I missed this kind of kiss, taking it slowly and sweetly. I would be closing my eyes when Jessi took a step back and looked at the other direction.

"Tiffany!!!!!" Oh man who the hell just—

SUNNY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jessi narrowed her eyes on me and looked away. She then tapped my back, motioning me to talk to Sunny. I guess she was totally disappointed! This was the second time Sunny! First one was when we we’re inside the tent! Grr!

"What?!" I rolled my eyes at her.

"This is urgent!!" She told us and her features grew worried to anxious.

"What happened? One of you guys locked your jaws while exercising?" She shook her head. "Locked your hips..?" I furrowed my eyebrows and she shook further.

"Locked your eyes..? What is it Sunny?" I asked her hysterically.

"You two must go with me! C’mon!" She hurriedly took my arm as I reached for Jessi with my other hand.

"What happened?" I asked her again as we ran.

"This would make you crazy and angry! Yuri should be the one to tell you this!" Sunny said as her back faced us.

I looked at Jessi whose expression was drawn with confusion like mine.

"Yuri! Here are they!" Sunny waved at Yuri who looked angrier. Scary, her face looked like when she confronted me ages ago.

"Fany!!" Yuri cried out.

"What happened?" I asked her hysterically and I glanced around, Taeyeon was not around and Hyoyeon was still exercising, now with two dumbbells on both hands. Did Taeyeon lock her... eyes?

"Where’s Tae?"

"This." She gave me a paper, not answering my previous question.

"Again," She told me as I opened it. Jessi glanced at my shoulder as we both read it. Man, what is this, how come? What the hell? A letter again!

I looked at Jessi with worried eyes. And she pulled me closer, as if to tell me that she’s here to protect me.

"’Love, Tiffany’" I finally said as I closed the letter again. "Why my name..?" I glanced back at Yuri and she shook her head.

"I would catch who’s behind this." Jessi pulled me closer than ever.

"Jessi, we’re all in this together! This time, we should really investigate who’s behind this. I thought this wouldn’t happen again..." Yuri glanced at me and I nodded.

"I wonder though about the reason behind this." She creased her forehead at the paper.

"Why is ‘she’ using your name to write to Sooyoung-baby?" Yuri sighed.

"This is a big problem and we should put a solution to it."

All of us nodded to her in agreement.

"But how would we be able to catch ‘her’ though?" Hyoyeon barged in as she continued to raise one dumbbell up.

"Yea, how..?" Sunny asked too.

"Hmm, I know a plan." Yuri suddenly smirked at us and I just knew this would end well. That person who’s using my name should just stop! Whatever her reason is, that I wouldn’t understand, why should she use my name? I don’t even find Choi attractive at all.

Yuri then motioned us to compress because she would whisper us something. After awhile we all agreed to her plan. Uhh, sorry readers, you shouldn’t know about the plan! You might know who writes the letter to Choi and you might be an accessory!!! This is for safety measures!! Please do understand.

"Where’s Tae?" I asked them again but Yuri glanced away, creating a domino effect with Sunny and Hyoyeon. "Hey..?" I asked them. I glanced around at the field and just found random people. No hint of small Tae. "Where is she?" Yuri approached me and pulled something from her back... uhh..?

"A rose for you," She gave me a rose and I looked at her weirdly.

"Rose..? For what, is Taeyeon here?" I asked confusedly and suddenly Sunny too held a rose, looking at me.

"What’s this?" I asked Sunny as she pushed the rose to my hand and I looked at Jessi who just wore a blank face like she was not enjoying any of it. "Is this from Wooyoung?!" I suddenly asked them and the two of them shook their heads.

"Huh?" I became more confused when Hyoyeon gave me a rose too. "Why are you guys giving me roses?" I stared at Jessi for an answer.

"Dunno," She mumbled as her eyes were darted elsewhere.

"Where’s Tae..? Did Tae become a rose..?" I scratched my head as the three girls looked at me with questioning eyes like I should have known the answer myself.

"See, she’s really dense and forgetful," Taeyeon emerged out of nowhere as she rolled her eyes. "Someone who loves you wants to give this to you," She handed me a gift which was wrapped in a pink wrapper, and there was a red ribbon attached to it. There was no card though but why would Jessi gave me a gift? Is it Jessi??

"What is this, you guys shall not be playing with me," I glared at them.

"Jessi..?" I looked at Jessi intently and she just looked at me.

"You guys!!" I suddenly chuckled. "It’s not my birthday today!" I told them and let out a laugh again.

"Hyo-sshi," Yuri started to talk like she didn’t hear me.

"Yea?" Hyoyeon stared back at her.

"What’s the date to day?"

"It’s the twenty-second Yuri," She answered her with boredom.

"You don’t know Yuri? IT IS THE TWENTY-SECOND OF THE MONTH TODAY," Taeyeon made her voice louder, stressing the words ‘twenty-second’.

What did I do, again..?

My eyes suddenly widened as I looked around and Jessi was already gone. Ninja-Jessi!? Why did I just remember now, this is bad. This is mean!! What did I--

"My God," I uttered to them as I put a hand on my mouth. "I forgot it’s our monthsary today," I uttered at them and Taeyeon sighed.

"What are you waiting for?! Now go and find her!" Taeyeon pushed me away.

"Where..?" I asked them worriedly.

"You know where! Everywhere," Yuri told me as she shut her eyes hard like ‘what kind of girlfriend would ever forget a monthsary’. I nodded worriedly at them, running as fast as I could. I thank God for giving me understanding friends. But seriously it’s our fourth month and I just forgot now!!

"Good luck Fany!!" I heard them yell. Where would I find her now though..?

Rooftop!

I climbed hurriedly three floors of stairs only to find out that Jessi wasn’t at the rooftop. Where she might be staying? I think of places as I panted hard. I looked around again to ensure that she wasn’t really here then I went down to the school’s garden and she’s not there too. No, this is totally bad. I think I just made her angry. This is my fault! Why did I ever forget?! What the hell is wrong with me!!! I ran as fast as I could again, even finding her at the back part of the school but still no sight of her. As the roses sting my fingers, I searched my brain further, there’s only one place that I know she could be staying.

As soon as I reached the hillside of the school, I saw a figure who was sitting below the tree. Of course, I totally remember this place. This is where she promised me that she would give me her sketches. And this was where I first initiated our kiss.

Jessi...

Panting, I halted when her eyes found mine. She stood up and continued to look at me.

"Jessi, I’m sorr---"

"You’re late." She smiled gently at me and as she walked towards me, my eyes caught the soccer ball which she was holding.

"Uhh," I uttered at her and I could feel her presence behind me.

"Let’s practice," She told me as she held my arm. "Try kicking the ball. Here, give me the roses and the gift." I turned my back around and I stared at her eyes. But her eyes were gentle, no hint of anger or disappointment. I watched her as she placed the roses and the gift on the grass.

She placed the ball in front of me and she returned to stand behind me.

"Kick it, like this." She moved one of her foot to the air as she started to teach me. What is this now...?

"Okay," I answered as I slowly move my feet. This is hard! I don’t even know how to kick a ball! She then suddenly put her hands on my waist and I suddenly felt nervous.

"Just like this," I glanced at her and she was looking at the ball which moved inches when she kicked it mildly. "You try it," As I slowly move my feet again, I felt her chin rest on my shoulder and her hands embraced me from behind. I winced and glanced at her and her eyes were already closed.

"Jessi, are you angry at me because I forgot about... that today is our monthsary...?" I sighed as I kick the ball mildly too. Oh man! It moved! It moved!! I smiled. It’s already our fourth month and it felt different. Usually, Jessi and I spent our previous three monthsaries by just eating outside, nothing special because they always happen whenever we have regular classes.

"No," She then started walking and faced me. We were about two meters apart as I tried to observe her expression again, but it was the same as before, gentle... protective...

"I’m sorry for being like this." I sighed again.

"I’ll get angry with you if you ever forget our first anniversary. You still have about eight months to memorize that twenty-two is our day." Her face suddenly changed into a blank one then she started to grin. I wonder how she could change her expressions this fast.

"Thank you..." I sounded apologetic when she kicked the ball so that it would reach me.

"Kick the ball to me." She commanded and my feet were trembling because I was afraid I might do it too hard or too soft and it would not reach her. I was afraid moreover, that the ball might land on her body or face!

"Try it." I moved one of my feet again. And when I managed to gain enough strength to make the ball reach her, I kicked it. Wah! It reached her!!

"You made it. It reached me." She smiled at me. "This ball is so much like you." She glanced at the ball and back at me.

"..."

"Even though I thought that it couldn’t be the two of us..." She started talking. "It could be. And like this ball, you reached me first. You’re the very first one and probably, the only one who’ll ever reach me like this." She played around with the ball. "You’ve reached me... truly and deeply." She smiled at me as she made the ball bounced to her knees.

"You never told me you could play soccer like a real soccer player." I pouted at her as I just discovered one of her talents.

"I don’t need to show off, do I?" Her eyes pierced mine.

"What more can I wish for? I don’t need tons of fangirls or fanboys. My ultimate fangirl is already in front of me." She smiled at me and I smiled back. She left the ball on the grass and reached for my hand. We sat below the tree and she gave me the gift and roses again.

"How did you manage to give them the roses without me noticing it?"

"Magic," She grinned.

"Why three roses then..?"

"I... Love. You." She uttered like a whisper as she thumbed my cheek. She looked at the gift then back at me. "Open it, although I know you’ve probably guessed what’s inside it." She chuckled.

"Hey, I’m dense. I haven’t." I chuckled back at her as I unwrapped the gift and oh, this was her sketchpad.

"Our club adviser had checked this already?" I asked her and she shook her head. "What would be your grade then if you haven’t passed this yet?!" I said hysterically at her and remembered that we both passed our sketchpads at the same time so how could she---

"That’s volume two, volume one was the one I passed." She chuckled at me.

"Volume two..? How come I haven’t seen you sketching me..?

"Because I’m jjang like that," She grinned further and I slapped her lightly. This is bad, I haven’t got anything but this.

"Sorry... I haven’t got anything for you... but this..." I opened my wallet and gave her our pictures which were inside a mini album, all taken when we’re on the camping trip. Luckily, I had it developed last weekend. I gave it to her and she smiled at me. I promise to buy her something! Grr, I hate myself.

"We’re pretty vain, aren’t we?"

"Yes," She turned every page of the mini album and I could see a smile cross her face every once in a while. Pretty sight, I know I could stare at her forever. After seeing all of the pictures, she kept it inside her pocket and stared at me.

"I guess I should wish first for Sunny to not appear like a mushroom." She told me as I started running my hand on her blonde hair. This was my first time running my hand on her hair that it felt ecstatic, even precious. As the wind gently fondle on us, the grass swayed with it. Making both of us feel like we’re in our own little world. Never to be bothered by anyone, by anything...

"Nah, I guess they’re still busy exercising." I giggled when she got something from her pocket and I stopped running my hand through her hair.

"Give me your hand," I gave her my right hand as I watch her get something from her pocket nervously. "We’re engaged from now on," She stared at me as she inserted a silver ring on my ring finger. I was so surprised that all I could do was to stare back at her then at the silver ring which has an engraved name of ‘Jessica’ at the back.

"What do you think," She said in almost a whisper as I could see her hands trembling after she had put it on my finger.

"It’s... beautiful..." I stared at her. "Thank you..." How could I ever tell her how much she means to me when it felt like even words couldn’t even describe how...

"Here’s mine," She tugged a necklace were the ring was placed. How come I just noticed that she was wearing a necklace? EHH..?

I fumbled the ring on the necklace nervously as I stared at my own name engrave in it, ‘Tiffany’ it says and I smiled warmly.

"Isn’t this too much?" I asked her.

"Nothing’s too much. All is enough as long as I could make you smile... as long as you’re mine." She placed a hand on my chin and she leaned closer. "May I kiss my girlfriend?" She smiled and I nodded. I closed my eyes as I could feel her love on my lips. Her hand caressing my hair gently and every time we would part between our passionate kisses, I could hear her whisper in my ears the words ‘I love you’ like a prayer. And as we stared at each other’s eyes, I was still marvelled by the fact that we were blushing crazily as our feelings express the love in between our hearts.

"May I kiss your neck?" She stared intently at me as she pinned me gently onto the tree. And her deep dark eyes pierced mine, reflecting nothing but me, reflecting nothing but her love for me. I moved my hands through her hair as I feel her lips touch my neck. It gave me chills and it was ticklish. I can’t stop this. Oh man. I can’t stop laughing. This tickles! HA-HA-HA!!!

I giggled as she kissed my neck further.

"Jessi!" I laughed again and she rolled her eyes at me. "It’s tickling me!" I pushed her lightly and she rolled her eyes again.

"We should stop this I guess." She sounded disappointed.

"Hey, don’t." I pulled her closer and buried my face on her shoulder. "I just want to feel you closer."

"We won’t be doing that okay," She assured me.

"I never told you we would be doing that!" I said defensively as I cupped her face on my hands.

"We’re not really doing that!" She said further to argue.

"It’s our day. Let’s stop arguing, please?" I pouted at her as I pecked her on the lips and she closed her eyes and I pecked again, five more times. But I want to peck her 100 factorial times. Kidding!

"May I?" She asked again.

"Neck..? You’ll be disappointed." This time, it’s my turn to roll my eyes and she chuckled. She closed the space between us and she kissed me on my forehead.

"I love your forehead," She smiled as she was kissing me and I slap her slightly then she kissed my eyes, my nose, my ears, my cheeks and back at my lips.

"I love you, all of you." She uttered in between our kisses.

"How cheesier can my girlfriend be?" I smiled at her and she kissed me at the lips again. I closed my eyes as I could feel her lips just above my collar bones. Thank God, it’s not on the neck or I’ll laugh again.

"Happy monthsary baby," I embraced her tighter like I could never let her go. And I know I’ll never would... When we parted she reached for my hand and stared at the ring which rested there.

"Happy monthsary my only one," She answered back as she kissed my hand with the silver ring, a proof that she is mine and that I am hers.

*

"Here, here! Faster girls!! C’mon!"

"What are we doing here Yuri?" I asked Yuri and she rolled her eyes. "Our plan yesterday can’t go well, so this is Plan B!" I stared at her orange sunglasses which was beaming brightly as we were hiding beneath the other side of the lockers.

"Ouch!" Hyoyeon continued to wipe her head after bumping it into one of the lockers. Oh man, why would someone bump her head on one of the lockers when you could see it clearly? It’s not like it’s dark or something.

"Sssh!" Yuri shushed her as I looked back at Sunny and Hyoyeon who have their flashlights opened even though it’s twelve o’clock in the afternoon!! I gripped Jessi’s hand tighter. I eyed her briefly as I could see determination and fierce on her face, like she was creating a perfect tactic in her mind to catch the suspect with her own hands.

"What would be doing here then?"

"Quiet!" Taeyeon said in a low whisper. "Someone’s coming!!"

20 First Sports Festival

“Yuri, what are we doing here?” I asked her for the nth time.

“Oh, Tiffany, we’ll be catching the culprit soon I guess.” She glanced at me as a smirk of sarcasm form upon her face.

“Here?! How?” Our first plan was flawless and this plan b is not good at all! What are we doing here beside the lockers, hiding ourselves like idiots? It’s such a blessing that today is the Sports Festival or else I wouldn’t know what would happen upon teachers and other students seeing us like children playing hide and seek with an unknown element.

“Just shut up and you’ll see!” Taeyeon glared as she whispered airily.

“Huh? What are we doing here?” I looked at Jessi who is staring at Sooyoung’s locker.

“Well, we’re waiting for the culprit!” Yuri crossed her arms at me like I should know it now. Hey, it’s not really comfortable sitting and hiding on the other side of the lockers and feeling the noon time heat on your head!

“Waiting? Then what if—“

“We’ll wait!!!” Hyoyeon said in a loud voice which made Sunny slap her on the head. Poor Hyo, she just bumped on one of the lockers, then now she had just been slapped.

I sighed heavily.

“But, our soccer competition will start at three o’clock!” I sounded frustrated, Jessi and I practiced, what if the culprit would not go today or what if ‘she’ would go after three o’clock?! Taeyeon scowled at me and I silenced with defeat.

“Quiet! Someone’s coming!!” Taeyeon shushed us all and we stared at Choi’s locker. We’re like wild animals waiting for their prey to come. Determination was on everyone’s face.

I wonder who would ever use my name though...?

Why my name?

Suddenly a tall girl walked cheerfully at the locker while singing something like ‘la-la-la-la’ over and over again. And as fast as a bullet, I just found Yuri in front of us and she wrestled the girl. As sudden as lightning, she pulled the girl on our place by the hair and the girl was whining like a puppy. Yuri then got a packing tape and placed it on the girl’s mouth to shut her up.

Desperate times really call for desperate measures.

“You!” Yuri put her hands on her own waist as she readied for interrogation. All of us stood up and encircled ourselves, leaving the girl as our center. All of us stared down at her. She was already crying as her mouth was covered with a packing tape, and her arms tied on her back.

How did Yuri tie her hand at the back? NINJA YURI!

And I felt like a bully for the first time as I glance with the people beside me, all their faces depict that of anger.

To our annoyance, we didn’t even realize she was Yoona.

“YOONA!?” Jessica suddenly shouted in surprise as all of our mouths gape with the realization. So Yoona was the one who had been using my name?! But ---

Yuri brutally removed the tape from Yoona’s mouth, making her flinched.

“Why are you guys doing this to me?” She suddenly cried like a child. “D-Don’t you know that’s unfair?! I fyou guys really wanted to win Sooyoung’s competition, you should not use harsh methods!!” She bickered incessantly at us and Yuri put the tape on her mouth again.

“Shut up!!” Yuri told her and Yoona’s eyes watered again as she controlled her sobs.

“Are you the one who’s constantly putting a letter on Sooyoung-baby’s locker and using Tiffany’s name?” Yuri walked back and forth in front of us, making all of us glance backat her and to Yoona.

Yoona shook her head hard.

“Hyo,” Yuri opened her right palm and Hyoyeon gave her a baseball bat. What the heck, what are they trying to do? Kill Yoona? But it’s not yet----

“I’ll ask you again, Are you the one who’s constantly putting a letter on Sooyoung-baby’s locker and using Tiffany’s name? And you started three months ago!”

Yoona’s tears dripped down as she shook her head harder than ever.

Jessi winced by my side for she can’t believe that Yoona could have done those things, she slowly walked in front of Yoona and slowly removed the tape on her mouth.

“What are you doing Jessica?” Yuri tapped Jessi on the back.

“Yoona,” Jessi started as a sigh escaped from her mouth. “Did you do that?”

“No, believe me please?” Yoona sobbed again. “How could I even do that? I just enrolled here two weeks ago...”

She’s right! The first letter had been found out without Yoona’s presence in this school!

“If it’s not you, then what are you doing on Sooyoung-unnie’s locker?” Taeyeon barged in which made Hyo and Sunny nodded.

“I--- well, I was...” She looked down at the pavement as I noticed her blushing.

“You’re really the one who uses Tiffany’s name, right?” Yuri raised an eyebrow at her. Yuri really insists on some matters that are quite illogical.

“No! It’s not me! You’re mistaken!! I don’t even know what you guys are talking about!!”

“Then what are you doing at Sooyoung-baby’s locker?!” Yuri glared at her.

“I—Sooyoung told me to, well... get her clothes... she needed to change after we played.” She said without even looking at Yuri as her cheeks were tinged in pink.

“YOU TWO PLAYED?!!!” Hyoyeon grabbed Yoona’s collar.

“Y-Yes,”

“PLAYED WHAT?!” Hyoyeon pulled harder as Jessi and I tell her to stop hurting Yoona.

“B-Bas---“

“Someone’s coming again!!” Taeyeon warned us and we all got back from our position before. Making, Yuri pull Yoona towards her and cover her mouth. I even heard Yuri whisper to her to shut up or else she would turn Yoona into a grilled barbeque.

We follow the strangers with our eyes as she glided through Sooyoung’s locker. Her long curly black hair, flowing through her back as her hands caressed Sooyoung’s locker. All of us compressed, even Yoona, to get a better view as the stranger got something from her pocket and before she could insert it, Jessi dragged the stranger towards us.

“So you’re really the one, then huh?!” It was Yuri’s turn to grab the collar of the stranger now. Taeyeon making it a point to get the envelope even before this girl could keep it away from us.

“’My dearest Sooyoung,’” Taeyeon started reading.

“S---“Jessi started stuttering.

“SEOHYUN!!!” Jessi gasped and we all stared at the girl.

“SEO-SSHII!!!!!” Yuri, Hyoyeon, Taeyeon and Sunny cried out in unison. And all along, I was just staring blankly at her.

Seohyun, my name... A letter, Sooyoung’s locker... Jessi’s cousin, Seohyun... keroro, letter, Sooyoungster... microwave...

DRRRDDIDDIIITBITDRTTT

*sound of Tiffany’s brain which is currently processing*

“Seohyun!!!” I shouted in surprise and all of them stared at me.

“Dense Fany!!” Taeyeon slapped me in the head as Seohyun crawled like a caterpillar on the floor.

“Where do you think you’re going huh?” Yuri pulled her on the hair and placed her in front of us. Seohyun stared at us with her cutesy-innocent face.

“Why are you putting this letter on Sooyoung-baby’s locker?” Yuri started walking back and forth again as a baseball bat was on her hand.

“You’re also a SOOYOUNGSTER?!” I barged in again, shouting and Taeyeon slapped me in the head for the second time. “Ouch!” I glared at her and she just stared at me.

Seohyun stared at me and I suddenly saw a sparkling light on her eyes.

“Err, is she all right?” I said to them and they also stared at Seohyun.

“Tiffany-unnie~” She beamed at me as she smiled, showing all of her white front teeth.

“Eh?”

“Seo-sshi, this is not good, but you just broke rules. And are you even a member of the official club?” Yuri crossed her arms as Seohyun continued to stare at her with innocence.

“Oh my God, she’s so cute,” Hyoyeon was now wiping her crying face with a handkerchief. “Can we just vindicate her?” Sunny said sweetly as she started to pinch Seohyun’s fat cheeks.

“No, not unless her reason is valid,” Yuri scowled at them as Sunny’s eyes started to well up.

“You’re stone-hearted Yuri. Look at her,” Sunny wiped the beads of tears from her eyes as Seohyun’s face looked innocent and cute at the same time.

“Aww, Seo-sshi~” It would be all right. I heard Hyoyeon say. I glanced at Jessica and beads of tears are also starting to form on her eyes.

WHAT THE HECK...?

I don’t even---

I looked back at Jessi again and her usual poker face dominated her features. Is she a chameleon or what? Yuri flinched at the sight of Seohyun’s innocent face.

“Okay then! Just tell us why did you use Tiffany’s name? And why are you doing this?” She said while giving up.

“Yuri-unnie... because, I idolize Tiffany-unnie, she’s just so STUNNING, MARVELOUS AND SEXY!!!!” Seohyung beamed at me as she held my hand with both of hers.

“Eh?” Jessi and I stared at each other for a moment and she looked away, I noticed she was blushing. Why is she blushing..? Because I’m ‘STUNNING, MARVELOUS AND SEXY’!? Oh, Jessi, you do agreed don’t ya?

“Why use her name? Just because of that..?” Yuri scratched her head in frustration.

“Unnie... well, because I thought if I’ll use Tiffany-unnie’s name... Sooyoung-unnie, who is my crush...w ould notice me.” She said innocently and Jessi scowled at her.

“Sica-unnie...” Seohyun looked at Jessi with puppy-dog eyes.

“Err, just don’t uhh... repeat this... okay? It would be nicer if Choi would know that it’s really uhh... you...” I told her and she nodded at me like an obedient child.

I glanced at Jessi and I thought I heard her sigh heavily.

“Okay, then just don’t ever repeat this again, or else!!!” Yuri put the baseball bat near Seohyun’s face. “You know what I mean.” And Seohyun nodded again.

“But unnies...” She uttered shyly. “Sooyoung-unnie wants to go on a date with me... because she thought... uhhh I’m really... Tiffany-unniee...” She smiled awkwardly at us.

“WHAT?!!!” Jessi yelled again. Man, it’s kind of weird hearing Jessi yell. “Are you even serious?” Jessi glared at Seohyun making the younger girl pull Sunny’s leg to hide there.

“Oh no, this is a BIGGER problem!” Yuri slapped herown forehead.

“Seohyun, what did you do?” Hyoyeon, Taeyeon and Sunny cried out in unison again.

“I’ll go and talk to Choi!” Jessi walked as fast as she could when I managed to pull her to me.

“Don’t!” I told her.

“But what should we do then? That player might expect you to go on a date with her!” Her voice was trembling.

“I won’t go!” I assured her.

“Sorry, cousin Sica-unnie...” Seohyun stared at us with those innocent looking and puppy dog eyes again. Oh man, she just looked so pitiful! How could she even---

Jessi sighed again and crossed her arms.

“So what should we do then?” She glanced around for us to tell if we have other plans in mind.

“By the way, where is Yoona?” Yuri turned around and saw Yoona disappearing from view with her hands still tied on her back. Yoona running as fast as she could!

“Just leave her alone. She’s not to blame.” Taeyeon said.

“But she just said Sooyoung-unnie and her---“Hyoyeon gasped which made Taeyeon and Sunny’s eyes to widen.

“We’ll come back on her later.” Yuri assured them as she glanced back to Seohyun. “What would we do to her now?”

“Seo,” Jessi started. “Don’t ever repeat this again or else I’ll burn all your Keroro collections.” She said coolly which made Seohyun teary-eyed.

“I—I – I won’t repeat this ever again.” Seohyun shook her head. “Promise,” She pouted quickly which made Sunny, Taeyeon and Hyoyeon say ‘aww’ at the sight.

“I guess this case is closed.” I started.

“Our only problem would be Sooyoung-unnie,” Yuri sighed as if there was something heavy inside her chest.

“You’re free Seo-sshi, don’t repeat this again. Okay?” Yuri untied Seohyun and the younger girl suddenly embraced me.

“Err, Seohyun...”

“Thank Tiffany-unnie. I won’t repeat this again. Okay? I’ll... I’ll... introduce my real self to Sooyoung-unnie... and I’ll... tell her the truth...” She said as soon as we parted and kissed me on the cheek.

Seriously, Sooyoung is a walking disaster! How could my name even be involve in this uhhh, I don’t even know how to describe! And now, Sooyoung agreed to go on a date with ‘me’. Oh my God, this is not so good. I hope Seohyun could just tell her that I’m not the one who’s constantly writing her letters!

“Yuri, will you really stop me if I try talking with Sooyoung?” Jessi suddenly talked and she glanced at me. Her face was unreadable.

“Yah! I guess, after our competition tomorrow..?” Yuri looked like she was weighing things in her mind. Two days are given to celebrate the Sports Festival and Taeyeon and told me they would ditch their wrestling competitions tomorrow just for the sake of Sooyoung’s competition.

“Jessica,” We both glanced at Taeyeon as she furrowed her eyebrows. “Promise us Sooyoungsters that you won’t let your ‘annoyance’ get over you.” She tapped Jessi on the shoulder and my girlfried stared at me. Hyoyeon and Sunny tapped her too.

“I can’t promise that...” Jessi looked away. “She’s hitting on everyone,”

“She’s not! She’s just... nice!!” Yuri defended Sooyoung.

“Stupid,” I heard Jessi uttered which made Yuri scowl and wince.

“Guys, let’s stop this okay?” I told them. “Jessi, if you’ll talk to her tomorrow, I’ll go with you.” I held her hand and she looked at them, particularly at the ring resting there.

“Okay,” A small smile suddenly lightened her features.

*

“Tiffany-unnie!” Seohyun were following us for the past one hour. She’s constantly saying the word ‘sorry’ and it’s already defeaning.

Man, this is not so good. Our soccer competition will start after fifteen minutes.

“Seo---“

“Sica-unnie!!” She embraced Jessi who just frowned. They looked cute though, like Seohyun was her little sister or something.

“Why are you following us?” I asked her, nicely.

“Because... well, unnies... I wanted to... make it up to you...” She stared at us with her innocent face again.

“Make it up to us? Just don’t... use my name again...” I told her.

“I won’t!! But please let me be with you, please Tiffany-unnie?”

“Uhh... why?” I glanced at Jessi and she scowled further. She’s not enjoying her cousin’s presence, I could tell.

“Because... I wanted to know the reason as to why you’re STUNNING, MARVELOUS AND SEXY!!” She beamed and embraced me again while we twirled.

“But is that making up to us?” I wrinkled my eyebrows.

“Well...” She started to think as she put her forefinger on her mouth. Her eyes suddenly widened which made Jessi and I looked at where she was looking.

Oh snap, it’s Choi!

“Hello,” She waved her hand at us and that radiancy started hitting us again, making our eyes half-closed as the light reaches us. So, I guess, this is the perfect time to tell Choi that I’m not the one who’s writing her those ‘love letters’.

“Tiffany?” She glanced at me and I looked away. “Tell them, there should be there tomorrow at four o’clock in the afternoon. Okay?” She flashed a smile, winked at me and started walking away.

OH NO. NOT GOOD, AT ALL. She really thought I’m a fan of hers too. No. Where the hell is Seohyun---

Jessi started walking, trying to catch pace with Sooyoung when I tightened my grip on her hand.

“Let’s wait tomorrow, okay? Besides, Seohyun should talk to her now.” I said to her. Jessi glanced at me and nodded. But I could still see those pissed off lines on her face even when she tried to hide it.

“Seohyun?”

We both turned around to find Seohyun and saw her lying on the ground with her nose bleeding and eyes rolling involuntarily.

“Oh no!” I panicked as I saw Jessi shook her head. “Let’s uhh... take her to the clinic!”

‘Ten more minutes before the soccer competition starts. I repeat, ten more minutes before the soccer competition starts! Please assemble yourselves at the soccer fields, NOW!’ We heard the announcer over the megaphone.

“Should we leave her?” Jessi offered.

“Eh? Let’s bring her to the clinic!” I started to kneel down and carry her body. “Help me Jessi!” I stared at her. “She’s---uhhhnnn heavy-----“I bit my lip as I tried to carry the younger girl.

I still wish we’ll be able to make it for the competition... I practiced hard!

I heard Jessi sigh again as she started carrying Seohyun without any hint of difficulty.

“Let’s go,” She uttered as I watch her walk.

“Wait for me!” I ran as I admire her aggressively virile personality hidden beneath her mysterious elegant face. Which I know, I would love until God knows when.

21 First Lover, One Timer

Our class lost.

Jessi and I continued to walk as silence engulfed both of us. I sighed heavily. I cannot accept this fate!! And since our class lost, I won’t go into details. You readers might laugh at us... so...

“It’s all right,” She patted me on the back.

“Yesterday, we had been disqualified because we needed to bring Seohyun to the clinic!! And we only won one game!!! If only they let you be in the regular players, we could have another chance of winning!” I complained as I stomped my feet on the road.

“Hey, we had fun haven’t we?”

“Well... yes... huh?! Had fun? Had fun sitting on the benches? And what I did was just to run and run on the soccer field!!! Nobody even let me hold the ball!” I further complained and I suddenly heard Jessi laughed.

“You’re really cute when you’re that childish,” She stared while smiling at me.

“Eh?” I mumbled and she pulled me closer towards her, while I let her fixed my fringe.

“Well, we could play soccer every week if you want.” She caressed my hair and I smiled shyly at her. I still feel shy everytime she do the littlest sweet things which always make my heart skip a beat. Oh Jessi~

“Anyway, those guys needed more of our moral support. And important things first, some misunderstandings should be cleared out.” She pointed at the neighbourhood’s basketball court and we saw Yoona, Taeyeon, Hyoyeon, Sunny, Yoona and Sooyoung. The five rivals doing their warm up already while Sooyoung just kept on smiling at them, making the girls unable to concentrate. Okay, so should I even explain further?Uhh.

As soon as we reach the court, Sooyoung stood up and smiled at me. OH NO. I tightened my grip on Jessi’s arm and noticed that Sooyoung stared at us. Her expression never changed and that same light reached us again. I glanced at Jessica and her cold expression dominated her face.

Why so bright?

We both raised our hands to cover the light~

“Hello there our two beloved audience,” Yuri jumped out after rolling her hips and hugged both of us. The five of them wore shirts and shorts and I could sense this competition would be about basketball. Hmm, maybe Sooyoung would make them play and the last woman standing would be her girlfriend.

“Fany! Jessica!!” Taeyeon beamed at us and hugged me too, even Hyoyeon and Sunny followed. I looked at Yoona and smile at her and although she smiled slightly at us, it felt like she’s not amused with our presence. WHO WOULD BE THOUGH? AFTER BEING BULLIED? I just feel so guilty, we shouldn’t have done that... Ugh. I could still see some mild scratches around Yoona’s mouth, maybe because of the packing tape...

“So have Choi told you already what the competition is?” I asked them.

“Not yet,” Sunny answered as she glanced back at Yoona who is talking with Sooyoung.

“She’s biased.” Hyoyeon frowned.

“Hey Yoona,” Yuri yelled and Yoona took steps away from Sooyoung. Yuri could be just so scary at times.Taeyeon tapped Yuri on the shoulder to calm her down.

“Unnies!” We all look as our eyes opened with the intruder’s sudden appearance. Oh no.

Seohyun emerged in front of us as she carried a Keroro stuff toy on one of her hands. What the hell is she doing here? She should not know about this competition. Or else, everyone in the fan club would kill us.

“Seo-sshi!” All of them gasped at the sight of Seohyun. Anyway, the positive side is that... it would be easier to clear things out about ‘my’ date with Sooyoung since Seohyun is already here. Maybe she stalked Jessi and I awhile ago! So that’s why we felt someone was tailing us!! We should have minded it but Jessi and I got lovey-dovey while walking so we didn’t even care...

“What are you doing here?” Taeyeon’s eyes widened with shock.

“Yah! Seo-sshi,” Yuri started.

“I---“ Seohyun stared at Sooyoung who smiled at her gently. And after a while, Seohyun, as she felt Choi’s radiancy onto her, fell on the ground, unconscious yet again as blood started dripping from her nose.

“Oh my God,” I said.

“SEO-SSHI!” They all yelled in unison.

“What should we do? What should we do?” Hyoyeon started walking in circles as she panicked.

“Don’t panic!! Let’s lay her on the bleachers!” Taeyeon stopped Hyo who is now rotating her head in panic.

“Okay! Okay!”

“I guess Seohyun wouldn’t help,” Jessi said and I nodded at her. How would Seohyun clear the misunderstanding herself if she would be nosebleeding every time she would see Choi? Oh no. “I can handle this, don’t worry.” Jessi stared at Choi with her fierce features.

“Don’t be---“

“I know,” She assured me and I nodded.

“One, two, three, carry!” We all counted.

All of us carried Seohyun and put her on the bleachers. After too much bickering with each other, Yuri forced Yoona to look out for Seohyun and to fan her incessantly. Jessi couldn’t do anything about it because Yoona herself surrendered and told us that she would win anyway. She laughed like there’s no tomorrow and it made Yuri scowled and punched her on the shoulder. Man, too much for brutal-Yuri. I wondered all this time why Yuri hates Yoona so much, maybe because, well to tell you guys the truth, at some angle they look alike. And Tae told Yuri about that, and ever since, she hated or should I say, despised Yoona more.

Anyway---

Sorry readers, someone just called me.

“Tiffany?”I looked back and saw Choi smiling at me. I noticed she’s closer to me than usual. It made me uncomfortable as I know she do think ‘I’ asked her for a date. This should be cleared as soon as possible.

“Uhh yes...” I uttered as I moved my body closer to Jessi. Thinking of the word that I should say, I suddenly heard Yuri growled from a distance. Eh?

“Well, we’ll talk later okay.” She smiled warmly at me and my eyes widened as I shivered.

“Choi, it’s not what you---“Jessi started talking but Choi had already turned her back from us and she assembled the girls.

“Jessi...” Jessi took her seat again and frowned.

*

“Okay, so here are the mechanics of the game...” Sooyoung smiled at the girls and I heard the fangirls utter ‘ahh’ at the sight. What the heck... And after awhile all their eyes transpired determination. Wow, anyone who’ll win here would be fine anyway... but I do think after this, many girls would be heart broken...

I sighed at the thought.

“It’s just easy. First you guys should know how to play basketball.” She grinned at them and the girls’ eyes widened.

“Eh??” I heard Sunny questioned.

Tae looked at me and her face painted that of fear. I know she had some idea about Sooyoung’s ‘play basketball’ words. But why the ‘fear’ on her face..?

I posed an ‘okay’ sign at her and she nodded for thanks.

“Don’t be bias.” Jessi elbowed me.

“I’m not. I’m just cheering my bestfriend.” I said defensively. “Who do you think will win?” I glanced at her.

“I don’t know,”

“I hope no one would be bittered by this competition.” I sighed.

“I hope Choi would not continue to hit on you,” She stared at me and I leaned my head on her shoulder. “Or else...”

“Jessi...” I calmed her down by squeezing her hand. “After this, okay..?” I looked at her and she nodded, although I could sense that she was gritting teeth. It felt like her jealousy is more transparent now than the previous Wooyoung-Thought-I-Still-Fancy-Him incident.

*

“You guys should beat each other in basketball.” Sooyoung said coolly as the wind streamed down her short hair.

“WHATT?!” All of them yelled.

“All of you will be given ten minutes to play and the highest scorer would be my girlfriend. Does this sound fair to all of you? So all of you should get the ball from each other and shoot it as many times as you can. So it’s a competition between you girls.”

“Yosh!” Yuri cheered herself.

Tae glanced at me again and worried was now painted on her face. Oh no, she’s not good in sports. She is not even---

No, I should cheer my best friend up!

“Hwaiting!” I shouted at her and she nodded, but still the worry on her face won’t leave.

“Game,”

Choi started dribbling the ball and she glanced at us.

“Tiffany, tell me if time’s up, okay?” She smiled at me and I nodded, annoyed. I glanced at Jessi and she scowled at Choi. But Choi don’t even mind, it looked like all she wanted is to charm other people. What a charmer!

Choi stared at me more and nodded, motioning me to start the time.

“Time starts now,” I yelled and Choi tossed the ball for the girls to get. And of course, Yuri who’s the tallest suddenly got the ball from behind, she started dribbling it and she suddenly stopped as she felt all of the girls circling her.

“Gaaaahhh!!” She yelled as she started running like crazy.

“Traveling!” Choi whistled and Yuri froze. Then suddenly Taeyeon hogged the ball from her and started dribbling like her hands were like a penguin’s. Oh no, not good. After a few more trying-hard dribbling, Yoona got the ball from her and she tried shooting it by lay-up but missed! Sunny jumped to get the ball but since Yuri suddenly emerged in front of Sunny’s face, she got it from her.

“It’s mine!!!!!” Yuri yelled as she hugged the ball and started running again.

“TRAVELING!!” Choi whistled again and Yuri threw the ball away with an angered expression. Suddenly, Hyoyeon emerged out of nowhere and dribbled the ball with confidence. Wow, so Hyoyeon knew how to play basketball? Taeyeon stood in front of Hyoyeon and hindered her from running any further. Again, Yuri ran towards the two girls and slapped the ball from Hyoyeon’s hand.

“Foul number twenty-one!” Choi whistled for the third time and Yuri started panting while she walked around with her hands on her waist. I could sense she’s not enjoying what’s happening. She kept on breaking the rules.Where did she get all of this energy in the first place though?

Choi tossed the ball for the second time which made Yoona’s turn to get it. She strated dribbling and as soon as she got near the ring, she jumped and made the ball into it.

“Two points for number seven!”

“Yes!” Yoona uttered and suddenly Yuri emerged from behind and slapped her on the head. “Ouch!” Yoona said as she wiped the back of her head.

“Foul number twenty-one!”

“Aishhh!!!” Yuri stomped her feet on the ground.

“Keep calm,” Taeyeon uttered as she patted Yuri on the shoulder.

“Time left, six minutes!” I yelled at them and the girls all gasped. Yoona will get Sooyoung back in case they won’t act now.

“BALL IS MINE!!!” As fast as lightning, Hyoyeon started running like a cheetah and she managed to get the ball from Sunny who stood frozen on her place with mouth gaping open as she tried to think how to dribble the right way. Oh no, she’s noob. Both Tae and her...

“Mine!”

“Mine! Mine!! Give that to me!!”

“No! It’s mine!!”

“MIIIINEEE!! I would be her girlfri---” Hyoyeon, Yoona, Sunny, Yuri and Taeyeon started to pull the ball towards themselves and after awhile, they all dropped down the ground. Meanwhile, Sunny and Taeyeon rolled on the gray pavement and bumped onto the body of the ring. Both of them whined as their heads pained with the collision.

“Aish!!” Yuri slapped Yoona who’s now on top of her. “Get off me, you idiot!” She slapped Yoona and tried kicking her. Hyoyeon on the other hand, with her fast recovery, stood up and got near the ring with the ball. Maybe her weightlifting gave her more stamina and strength. Just seeing Hyo’s body, I could easily tell she’s fit.

“You won’t be able to shoot that!!” Taeyeon jumped continuously as she tried to block Hyo’s view.

“Taeyeon! ISAAC NEWTON!!” Hyo screamed and Tae turned to the direction. Man, Taeyeon how many times shall I tell you that Newton is dead because of the apple the fell on his head?! I slapped my head, oh Tae! Oh no, Hyo jumped and the ball circled to the ring and after awhile, it got in!!

“Yea!” Hyoyeon jumped high and grinned.

“Two points for number thrity-two!”

“We’re tie,” Yoona smirked at her and Yuri slapped her again.

“Foul! NUMBER TWENTY-ONE!”

“AISH!!!” Yuri yelled making Seohyun sat up after being unconscious.

“Seo! How are you feeling?” Jessi and I stared at her. Is she really Jessi’s cousin?

“Sooy—“ She uttered and she fell onto the bleachers with her eyes rolling while her nose bled for the second time.

“Seo!!” I started to fan her as I wiped the blood on her nose. Poor little girl! What if she suddenly becomes anemic because of too much lose of blood? Gah!

“Absurd,” Jessi shook her head and I shut my eyes closed. Does Jessi consider Seohyun as her cousin? When we stared back at the court Yuri and Yoona we’re already bickering at each other, this would be a really long argument.

“Why do you keep on slapping me on the head?” Yoona glared her eyes on Yuri as Sooyoung tried to come between them but to no avail.

“You’re an idiot!!” Yuri yelled back.

“You’re not fighting fair!”

“Really? Who’s practicing with Sooyoung-baby? It’s you right? You!!!”

“It’s for the sport’s fest!!”

“Even so—“

“Stop!!! WE’RE RUNNING OUT OF TIME!!” Taeyeon tried to barge in.

“Shut up you two!!” Sunny tried to push each of them away from each other.

“Yah! Im Yoona, fight fair!!” Yuri started to ponder her fist at Yoona

“You’re the one who’s not fighting fair, using physical abuse just to win!!”

“I’m not!! You’re talking sh*t!!”

“Yea? Kwon Yuri?!” Yoona rolled her tongue out which made Yuri grab her on the shirt.

“Yoona, one more and you’ll get back from where you should be! You’ll regret this!” She grabbed tighter.

“Go on! Go and continue to harass me!!”

“HEY!! STOP THERE YOU TWO!!” Choi whistled which made both of them cover their ears. “We should continue on the game! Yuri, stop hurting Yoona! That’s against the rules!! You want to be disqualified?”

“I DON’T WANT TO BE DISQUALIFIED BECAUSE I QUIT!!!!” Yuri tossed her towel on the ground as she glared at Yoona. “I’LL GET BACK ON YOU IM YOONA!!!” She pointed her forefinger at her and grabbed her bag which was resting on the bleachers. I stopped the timer. We all watched Yuri as she moved. This is just impossible to happen: Yuri, quitting over Sooyoung?

“Yuri!” Taeyeon yelled and I tried to pull Yuri towards me but she slapped my hand away.

“Hey!” Jessi yelled at her but she didn’t even look at us.

“This is not going anywhere!!! YOU AND YOUR SILLY GAMES CHOI SOOYOUNG!!!! I QUIT!” She started walking away and I saw hint of tears on her eyes while we all stared as she vanished from view.

“HEY KWON YURI!!” Yoona started running as she followed Yuri.

“Oi! Yoona, get back here! You’re score would be forfeited if---“ But Yoona ignored Sooyoung and continued to run as she too, disappeared from the scene.

“Uhh, this is not good. We should follow them!” I stood up. Something bad would happen between those two if we let them go together.

“Let them be,” Jessi stopped me.

“But...”

“Don’t worry,” Jessi comforted me with a smile and I took my seat again. What does Jessi meant by that though? Huh? ‘Let them be.’

I hope so...

I glanced at Tae and she sighed heavily.

“So, how about you girls?” Sooyoung eyed them for reaction.

“We’ll continue,” Hyo glanced at Tae and Sunny as they nodded at her.

“Time?” Sooyoung stared at me. Her face doesn’t seem to portray any hint of melancholy as the other two players, Yoona and Yuri, vanished. It felt as though she doesn’t really care in the first place, she is really a player. And whenever I think that Yoona had been her girlfriend, it made me piss. Just dumping her like that!! And it doesn’t feel as though she really considered Yoona as her girlfriend! If Jessi was to do that to me I think I’ll--- I sighed at the thought and Jessi eyed me.

“Are you all right?” She stared at me and I put my arms on her waist and she smiled as we continued to watch the remaining players.

“Three minutes left!” I yelled back.

Sooyoung tossed the ball for the third time and Hyo got it. Now, I do think Hyo will win this competition. Just look at how noob Tae and Sunny is!! But how I wish a miracle would happen so Tae will win... I know that she has fallen in love with Choi... but if Choi would treat her as she treated Yoona then it would be better if she doesn’t win at all!

Hyo dribbled the ball confidently as the two other danshins started to block her from nearing the ring. But then Hyo made it because she started dribbling faster which made the two girls dizzy and she shoot again.

“Four points for number thirty-two!” Sooyoung looked at Hyo with an encouraging smile. Whattu player!

“One minute!” I yelled and Tae frowned. She knew there’s no more hope and Sunny started to drag her feet in despair as she still tried to get the ball from Hyo. But I do think she has been smirking? Uhh.

“Six points for number thirty-two!”

“Forty seconds!”

Taeyeon fixed her eyes on the ground and I could sense that she’s hindering herself from crying. Oh Tae... you deserve someone who’s not gonna play with your heart...

“Hyo, congrats...” Sunny reached Hyo’s hand while panting. “I give up,” She surrendered and hugged Hyo.

“Ten seconds.”

Tae approached Hyo and hugged her too. I thought I heard her say ‘congratulations’ in a very down tone. Taeyeon...

I suddenly felt sad...

Sooyoung then whistled to tell them that the game is over.

“Congrats...” Sooyoung reached for Hyo’s hand and the smaller girl shyly looked down as Sooyoung kissed her hand. “My girlfriend,” Sooyoung smiled and Hyo started to cry. Hyoyeon...

Taeyeon started walking on the bleachers to get her things. She’s not even looking at them while Sunny kept on fanning Seohyun endlessly as she tried to wipe her tears. It felt like she was mourning for Seohyun’s ‘death’. ERRR. I thought I heard her say ‘at last’ though. Wha?

“I’m going,” Tae said without even looking at me.

“Tae...” I tried to call her back but she continued to walk. I stood up and followed her when Jessi stopped me. I turned my head to her, questioning her why she pulled me away.

“She needs time for herself,” Jessi stared at me and I focused my eyes on the ground.

“You’re right...” I sighed.

“Tiffany,” Jessi and I turned around and saw Sooyoung in front of me. Oh no, the ‘date’ suddenly creep like a monster in my mind. I should turn her down and tell her the truth that it’s not really me!!

“Look, Choi---” Jessi talked first.

“Well, I... I’m sorry but I’m not interested with you,” Sooyoung smiled awkwardly at me as she pulled Hyoyeon closer to her. WHAT THE HECK? So she still thinks I’ve fallen for her charms? GAH, Seo’s fault! “So, about the date... it’s not going to happen.” I saw regret on her face as Jessi and I looked at each other with surprise. “Because... to tell you guys the truth... Hyo...” Sooyoung glanced at Hyoyeon then back at us. “...Is my first love...” She smiled weakly at her.

“What?!” Jessi and I said in unison. It’s as if, huh? When did this even..?

“Long story... I’ve known her... well, when she was still in middle school... and when I confessed she dumped me because of the fangirls...” She started to caress Hyo’s hair. Hyo, on the other hand was blushing incessantly. Sunny nodded at us, oh Sunny had been a friend of Hyo since then, so she must have known.

“Actually, I’m not really a Sooyoungster, Hyo just persuaded me and since I wouldn’t let her alone and still afraid some fangirls might recognize her, I joined too.” Sunny sighed. So that’s why she looked like she’s not that determined in the first place.

“Then what if Hyo didn’t win?!” I said. Oh man, this doesn’t make sense! So Choi has been watching Hyo all along? HUH?!

“I guess... I’ll keep on playing...”Sooyoung sighed. “She told me unless she won’t get me ‘the natural way’, we’ll... stay as what we were... that is, her as my fangirl...” Okay, her eason is just so... shallow.

“But what about all your other fangirls... particularly Yuri and Yoona!?”

“Yuri... I see her as a water girl... And Yoona, she was there when I tried moving on from Hyo. But she failed at it. No one lasts for about a week though... And Taeyeon... she’s delici--- ah! Others will be gone once I graduated. So I still have to wait for one more school year...”

“Taeyeon..? What?” Huh? Taeyeon is what?!

“Well, she’s quite the intelligent. So she helped me with homeworks... and the food she cooks is delicious.” She scratched her head and I scowled. What a user! And Hyo is all fine with this?! Eh?

“So what about it..? You’ll just leave them like that?!” I told her.

“Do I need to apologize? They’re the one who insisted anyways.”

“You keep on breaking hearts! Aren’t you even aware of that?” I glanced at Hyo and noticed that she flinched. So she had been keeping this identitiy of hers for quite some time now huh. I sighed at the thought. It must be hard for her seeing Sooyoung playing with other girls. Sunny left us and continued to fan unconscious-Seo.

“Are you jealous Hwang?” Sooyoung stared at me and suddenly Jessi grabbed her on the shirt.

“Jessi!” I tried to pull Jessi’s hand, Hyoyeon too.

“Repeat what you’ve said!”

“I said maybe she’s just jealous.” Sooyoung repeated as she looked away but Jessi grabbed tighter. “Hey let go of me! No offense, but I don’t understand why you’re doing this. Are you jealous too? Oh, so that’s why you two had bee----” Sooyoung smirked and without a word Jessi punched her on the face.

“Sooyoungie!!” Hyoyeon called out. ‘Sooyoungie’?!

“Jessi! I told you to stop!” I glanced at Jessi with worry and her eyes were totally different from before. They depicted fury, and for a moment I felt scared. This has been something I couldn’t even persuade myself as real...

“Stop!? Stop as she continued to tell you that you’re jealous and you’re one of her fangirls? Damn it, Tiffany! You’re only mine! Damn it! And you’re not even defending yourself!” She dropped her hands into frustration and walked again in front of Sooyoung who was now being tended by Hyo because her lower lip was bleeding. And all I could do was to look at her, I’m hurt by her words, like I was the one who keep on tolerating Choi’s actions... when in fact, I’m not... I just don’t know when’s the right time to tell her that I’m not really interested to her!

“Hey, coward,” Jessi started to bring up a fight again as she grabbed Sooyoung’s shirt for the second time. What to do to stop her? Is this really my Jessi? I tried moving my body but... I can’t... even my lips were pressed together like it had been glued.

“Stop please! Jessica!” Hyoyeon was now in tears as she put her arms on Choi and all I could do was to watch, I was frozen on my place... I haven’t known this Jessi... do I still know her?

“If you say one more word about Fany being your fangirl, I’ll break that face of yours. Don’t go feeling that everyone must have fallen over your charms. You are messing with me Choi Sooyoung! You are messing with Tiffany’s girlfriend!” Jessi stopped tugging Sooyoung’s shirt and went to me. All Sooyoung could do was to stare at Jessi with disbelief. Sunny too stopped fanning Seohyun and stared at us, her face reddened because this was the first time Jessi couldn’t even control her self. I mean, when she’s angry, she tried to hide it, but now... she didn’t... and she was constantly yelling...

Oh my God... Jessica...

All I could do was to stare at her as her features suddenly softened when her eyes found mine.

“Let’s go,” She uttered and she grabbed my hand as we exited the basketball court.

Jessi...

*

“L-Look, I’m s-sorry Tiffany...” She sighed as I looked at her. All along the trip, I haven’t uttered even a word. I just nodded, I am still afraid that if I tried to look at her, I would see the other Jessi... I’m afraid that I am loving the wrong person, that she is not Jessi... but still... “I... I just don’t want to lose y-you...” She stopped walking and when I noticed that, I looked back at her. “S-Sorry,” She repeated again.

“What do you mean I’m not defending myself though? I tried to do so but I just can’t find the right time and in the first place all you did was to talk first!! Why is it that your words felt like I am tolerating Choi’s flirtatious attitude too? If you say so then---“ She just stared at me. “What if... you did something more to her..?” I continued to ask her. “I’m afraid you can’t control yourself and you would do something I couldn’t imag---“She suddenly wrapped her arms around me.

“S-Sorry, Fany-ah... I won’t repeat it again, o-okay? I promise, really.” She embraced me tighter. “I tried c-controlling myself... but... still, that sharp tongue of Choi got into me... I was afraid you m-might realize... Choi is more good-looking t-than me or that I’m l-less capable than her or that---”

Jessi...

“Sssh,” I uttered as my hand ran on her gold locks. And as we held each other, I could feel her tears on my shoulder. “That will not happen, you know why?” I comforted her after we parted. Her face was dominated with worry. I cupped her face and pecked her on the lips. “That Choi doesn’t have something that you’ve got.” She stared at me and her face turned blank. I slapped her lightly on the shoulder and she smiled slightly with worried lines on her face. I then lead her hand on my chest. “Can you feel it?” Her lips smiled and it made my heart slowed down it’s pace as I told her what all I know on that moment.

“You’ve got my love,”

22 First Lesson

“You’ve got my love,”

I am staring at my Jessi who is currently sleeping with her head down on the desk. Our Science teacher is talking about the sun as the center of our solar system and I’m in no mood to listen because the center of my own universe is beside me. I am just staring as I slowly reach for some strands of her blonde hair, trying all my might to caress it even for just about three seconds.

The teacher suddenly cleared his throat and I smiled awkwardly at him.

“Playing pranks Miss Hwang?” The teacher raised an eyebrow and I shook my head. I felt everyone looked at me and my eye caught the empty seats of Tae and Yuri. It has been three days.

I sighed.

The teacher continued his lesson as I looked at the person beside me. Jessi slowly raise her head up as she was staring at the teacher with a ‘why-did-you-wake-me-up-want-me-to-beat-you-up’ look. I giggled softly and her eyes found mine.

“Err, sorry...” I smiled at her and she smiled back at me. She slowly moved her seat towards mine and a sound was made as the chair’s legs scraped across the floor. For the second time, the teacher glanced at us and we both froze. He faced the board again and continued to write, he was doodling a sun which looks like a moon to me. Huh?

Jessi placed her hand on top of mine and I looked at her.

“It has been three days,” I whispered.

“I think if it makes you worry this much, you should go and visit her then. You’ve given her enough time for herself.” Jessi thumbed my hand and our eyes were locked at each other. Again, the teacher cleared his throat which was much louder this time and it made Jessi pulled her hand quickly away from mine.

“Thank you,” I smiled at her and she nodded at me, encourangingly.

“Class dismissed,” The teacher announced which made all of the students in the room stood up for our lunch break.

“Miss Hwang?” I stared at him and pointed at myself. Is he really calling for me? Err...

“Uhh, yes sir?” I asked him and I could feel Jessi on my back.

“Please don’t pull pranks with Miss Jung, that’s bad.” He scowled and I stared blankly at him. Uhh. “Understand?” I nodded and he walked away.

I turned around and saw Jessi laughing uncontrollably. I slapped her lightly and frowned.

“I’m trying to be sweet, you know.” I told her. “And maybe our Science teacher is hitting on you. Just look at how he clears his throat every time we would just talk or just eye each other!”

“You’re jealous?” She raised an eyebrow at me.

“No,” I said defensively.

“Yes you are and you’re sweet by just looking like that.” She pointed at my pouting lips as she continued to chuckle.

“Jeti!!” We both turned around and saw Yuri as she put her bag pack on her seat.

“Yuri!” I hugged her. “Why just go to classes now?” I asked her as soon as we parted.

“Taking a break and thinking of things,” She looked away as she grabbed the school’s newspaper and stomped her feet on it.

“How’s it going between you and... uhh... Yoo---“

“Nothing,” She glared at me and scowled, as she continued to stomp on the newspaper. Then after awhile she got it and threw it onto the trash can. “Will just eat lunch,” She waved her hands at us and vanished from the door.

Jessi and I looked at each other. She then walked to the trash can and got the newspaper. She placed it on my arm chair and we both stared at the headline.

“Choi Sooyoung is already taken,” I read aloud and we both look at each other. Then we shifted our eyes on the headliner.

CHOI SOOYOUNG IS ALREADY TAKEN!

Choi Sooyoung, the school’s MVP, announced

yesterday at the anniversary of her famous Fan

Club that she already has a girlfriend. This surprising

announcement made fangirls enraged, even making

them stalk her just for the sake of knowing who the

‘lucky’ girl was. But Choi wouldn’t talk and she

even pleaded for the club moderator to finally

dissolve the club itself. Oh Ji Eun, the club’s founder,

told us yesterday with her puffy eyes and distorted

face, “There’s nothing we could do... but to obey her...”

She then left and cried. And this made a really big

impact on the school’s population, recording a number

of thousands of students, boys and girls, being absent

on their classes. We tried getting the comment of the

famous basketball player about the shocking news

but she shrugged and told us, “I’m happy with my life

now, please do be happy for me too.” She flashed her all

time killer-smile, making some of our interviewers to faint.

Sooyoung-baby, as what fans affectionatelycall her...

Cont. p17

Jessi and I stared at each other and I sighed. Man, Sooyoung making rhousands of students to be absent is just so... I don’t even know, it felt like only Jessi and I aren’t her fans. And I suddenly felt lucky!!

“This is just so shocking, even making it on the the headliner...” I stared at Jessica and she just nodded.

“At least, fan club’s going to be dissolved.” She finally said. “This absurdity would finally be over.” She frowned. HA-HA, my Jessi is still jealous. I smiled at her and reached for her hand.

“I’ll come over to TaeTae’s house after classes, would you like to go with me?” I asked her as we made our way out of the room to eat our lunch.

“No,” She uttered as she shifted her eyes on me. We stopped when she fixed my fringe and continued talking. “It would be better if you’ll just see her on your own. Taeyeon needs you, her best friend.” I nodded at her and we headed on the cafeteria.

*

I rang the door bell for about freakin’ 98402384 times already but no one would pick on the door! What the hell, is Tae’s mother not here? Or is Tae not here? I glanced at her room and on the door mat, Tae’s Pikachu slippers is here so she should be at home.

I tried opening the the doorknob with annoyance when it suddenly opened, making me lose my balance as the door opened suddenly.

“What the!?” I uttered in annoyance. So, the door had been opened all this time huh! I glanced around the living room and noticed nobody’s here. Where’s her mother---

Oh, I remembered, her mother is always nowhere to be found. Err, she’s like gone everyday and it felt like she didn’t even care about Tae. She would just leave her money telling her occasionally that she has to go here and there.

I glanced around again just to make sure. I felt like a thief huh!

I sniffed and smelled something delicious. Wow. I moved my head towards the kitchen and saw someone sitting on the floor... who looked like... a curved ball inside a blanket, the stranger slowly turned her head to face me, her eyebags popping out like a big bag of sand, her lips looked really dry and her skin was so pale she looked like some kind of a preserved human being. I stared at her longer and winced.

Oh my God, what happened to you...?

“Taeyeon!!” I shouted as I walked towards her, embracing her but she was not reacting. I looked at her and her face expressed nothing. Her cheeks dropping abnormally, oh my goodness!

“Taeyeon!” I cried again. She started to walk like a caterpillar as the blanket convered her from head to foot. “Where are you going..?” I pulled the blanket towards me and she stopped and turned around to look at me again. “You won’t talk? You look like a dead person!!!”

She shook her head, slowly.

“TaeTae! Go to school again!” I pleaded and she shook her head again. “It has been three days Tae, and is that really the effect of Choi to---“ She stared at me and I swear her eyes looked scarier than my Jessi’s when angry.

“I... well...” I took steps backward as Tae walked towards me. Maybe she would hurt me? OH NO. I shut my eyes close as I was expecting a spank or a kick on the face but then...

“Tiffany!!!!!!!” She cried and embraced me, she sounded like a baby without her milk as I felt her tears on my shoulder.

“Taeyeon... everything will be okay.” I assured her as I comfort her. “You don’t deserve Choi, you deserve someone better...” I said further and she looked at me and she cried again. “Oh Tae...”

When we parted she sat on the floor again and stared at me as she tried to wipe her face. I kneeled down so that I would be on her level. I patted her and smiled.

“Move on,” I told her bravely although I don’t know if that would be easy for her. Did she really love Choi though?

She cried again and I panicked. “Tae, talk please... I’m willing to listen...” I assured her. “Do... you really... love her..?” I asked her seriously and she cried for the 59023485th time. “Sorry! I didn’t mean to ask!” I panicked.

She shook her head and closed her eyes. She sighed heavily.

“Water?” I offered but then she opened her eyes.

“S-Something... s-something... ha-ha-h-happened b-between u-us...” She looked at me intently as if to tell me that I have to understand and I did.

“What did she do? Did she drug you!?” I asked her madly and she scowled.

“Slow!” She uttered.

“Hey! I’m not! I’m the one who’s helping you here huh!” I glared at her and she let out a defeated laugh.

“Thanks best friend.”

“Now what happened between the two of you...?”

“S-Something happened!”

“What?” I don’t get it!

“It happened between us!” She insisted and I narrowed my eyebrows to think.

“What happened...? I still don’t get it Tae.” I pouted and she rolled her eyes at me. She sighed again. “Hey, tell it to me!”

“Okay Fany, Sooyoung did me....” She sounded defeated and shy while I stared at her.

“Did you what...?” I asked her innocently.

“She did me!!!” She sounded even frustrated this time.

“Did you what?!!!” I sounded frustrated too.

“Oh man Tiffany!! How can you be so slow like a snail?!” She shut her eyes. “I don’t wanna talk about it...” She sighed heavily as she put her hand over her own chest.

“Oh my god, Tae!!!” I suddenly realized it!! “Sooyoung... didn’t... no... she didn’t...” I stared at her and she nodded, shyly. “Why didn’t you tell me she told you to be her own fan girl!!!” I told her and she scream in frustration.

“Fany!!!!!” She yelled at me again. “You’re wrong!!”

“Eh...” I pouted.

She then leaned closer to whisper it to me and after a while, she then faced me to observe my reaction. I looked at her.

“Okay,” I told her and she looked shock with my action. “Eh?”

She then rolled her eyes, then after a while her words sunk in.

“TAEYEON!!!!!!!! YOU!!! YOU!!!” I covered my mouth with my hand. “You, you lost your....” I stared at her and I saw tears dripping from her eyes. “You... lost... your... v-v-v-v-v-v-virginty to C-Choi...” I stared at her and she nodded. “TAEYEON!!!!” I embraced her and she flinched.

After we parted I stared at her for a while.

“How does it feel..?” I asked, curious.

“Well... it felt nice...” She said shyly. “But... it’s painful and... well... it’s nice... and---“ She then looked at me and slapped me. “Why are you even asking me about that?!” She told me, furious and I apologized. “You and Jessi hadn’t done it yet?!” She just realized and I nodded. “Really?!” She raised an eyebrow and I nooded again. “Innocent couple!” She teased.

“Well, all we ever did so far was a kiss till the collar bones.” I reminisced the moment and smiled proudly at myself.

“HA-HA-HA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Taeyeon laughed and I felt humiliated.

“Yah! Tae!” I told her and she laughed again.

“Just a ‘kiss’?” She asked then. “Innocent kiss?” She stared at me for an answer and I tried to recall.

“We just kiss...” I finally answered.

“Kiss? As in only ‘kiss’?!”

“I don’t get you Tae!”

“I mean no using of other... ‘parts’...?” She whispered even thought it’s only the two of us.

“What parts?” I asked her.

“Oh my God, you too are so deprived and so innocent to the point that you miss out all the fun!” She said proudly at me and I narrowed my eyes to digest what she just said.

So Jessi and I should finally do it?

HUH?! But how should we do it? Can we do it? WHAT?! I shouldn’t be thinking about these things! I should be persuading Tae to go to classes again!

“That would come later.” I finally told her. “ We’re taking it slowly and we’re only freshmen!”

“Yah!” Taeyeon slapped me.

“Do you want me to talk to Choi about this?” I asked her, seriously. Choi shouldn’t be doing that to all girls! What would just Hyo think of her MVP girlfriend when I told her about this!!! “I can ask Jessi to punch her again!” I punch into the air and accidentally hit Tae’s nose.

“Argh! Tiffany!! At the camp, Yuri punched me then now you!! Ouch!!” She rubbed her nose and I apologized for about 789 times for her to stop glaring at me.

“Anyway, don’t do that.” She frowned.

“Why?! But she used you for fun!!”

“Maybe...”

“Tae?! ‘Maybe’?! Maybe!! She used you! You should be doint it with the person who loves you too! Not just doing it to you to pass the time!!!”

“But... I’m...”

“Tae!!” I shook her shoulders. “Wake-up! Choi already has a girlfriend, and all those times, she was just playing!!! She’s not serious!” I told her the truth, even though I know she’ll get hurt, I want her to realize more of things!

“I know...” She sighed defeatedly. “But I don’t regret anything... I’m happy I did it with her...” She stared at me and I tapped her on the shoulders. There’s nothing I could do, Tae won’t see where I’m pointing at...

“Anyway, you should go back to school...” I told her. “Yuri already attented our afternoon classes awhile ago...”

“Yes, I would...” She finally said.

“And your club is already dissolved...” I put out the newspaper and let her read it. She smiled warily at me and wiped some of her tears again. I hate it, my best friend hurting and there’s nothing I could do... I just hope Tae would be able to move on as soon as possible...

“I know it would come to this...” She finally said. “Thank Fany for being there for me. And I remembered... you told me to remind you to pay for your tuition fee.” I just nodded.

“Thanks Tae for reminding even though you’re still in this state...” She smiled warily. “You really loved her, don’t you....” I was telling a fact, not questioning her. You wouldn’t cry this much for someone you don’t love right?

“I guess so.” She stared at me. “I’ve really loved.. Choi Sooyoung...” I hugged her and let her sob on my shoulder for hours.

*

I stumbled upon our door as I was putting my shoes on the rack. I should be going back to my room now when I smelled something that seemed to be alcohol. I went slowly to the kitchen and saw about three bottles of beer, a glass half-filled on the table, shifting my glance from the table to the chair, I saw mother, quite drunk.

“Mum,” I tried to call her. This is the very first time I saw her being drunk. Why would she be drunk anyway?! “Mum!” I tried shaking her and she just looked at me, her eyes were swelling from I think, mum just cried. Why was she crying?!

“Mum! What happened?! Why are you drunk!!!” I panicked as I dropped my bag onto the floor. “Mum!” Is she also Sooyoung’s fangirl?! OH MY GOD. This couldn’t be.

But mum won’t talk, she just stared at me, her eyes being covered with tears.

“I’m... I-I’m.... I’m... s-sorry Fany dear...”

“Mum! What are you talking about?” What is happening with everyone? Everyone is having their own depressive state! When I thought this fanfic should be humorous!! Now the drama is starting, oh no!!!

Mum wiped her tears and buried her face on her own arms on the table and cried. I just let her cry... I never saw mum like this.... the last time I saw her in this state... was when... father left us... and I fear to know what it’s about this... time, I fear going near her and knowing about it...

Mum...

23 First Depression

“Mum...” I called out again but mum continued to weep on the table. “What happened mum...? Tell it to me, I’m willing to listen... okay?” I tapped her on the back and she looked at me.

“Fany dear...”

“Mum, don’t scare me like that. And you shouldn’t drink beer, okay?” I told her as I placed the contents of the bottles on the sink. It looked like she only drank half of one bottle so it should be fine. “I wouldn’t be happy if you repeat it again. You should rest, mum...” I guide her to stand because she looked dizzy.

“Fany...” She cried again.

“Mum...” I tried to comfort her. Her eyes stared to mine, as if telling me to be ready with something that could change or affect me so much.

“I... F-Fany... I-I’d been...” She cried again. “I-I’d been... s-scammed...” She suddenly said and I looked at her. Her face was so red it looked like she would vomit anytime.

“Scammed...?” I wonder though if mum is all right or is it the effect of alcohol.

“Fany... o-our money...” She cried again and I know she knew what she’s talking about.

“Mum... let it rest... we could talk about it tomorrow...”

“B-But... that money... that’s the one I will use to... pay for your t-tuition fee... and all my savings...” She confessed and I looked at her. Mother is working as the community’s nutritionist, and I really know myself that her salary is not big, not too small and only enough. Paying for my tuition is a pain in the neck, and took lots of effort for mum to borrow to other people...

And at this point of time, I’m already weighing on how to pay for my tuition fee.

“We could borrow to other peop---“

“We are being buried in debts Fany!!” Mother cried and at the same time she was yelling. She looks so frustrated after she sighed heavily and stared at me again. “There’s no one whom we could borrow to!! They won’t even believe I’ve been scammed!” She continued to cry, her voice was trembling. “I-I... I thought if I invest the money... it would be big... but the person fooled me....” She cried some more.

“We should catch the scammer then! We should call the police!”

“I-I couldn’t reach her... all the personal details she told me are fake... Fany... f-forgive me....”

“Mum...” I don’t even know how to react. What should I do now? How can I continue to study? How would I find money..?

“I d-don’t know i-if I could get my salary in advance... w-we already have tons of debts...” I let mother sit on her bed. For the first time I felt really angry with father, why did he left us like this..? He only used mother’s money for his own sake... I wanted to cry but controlled myself. But there’s no sense to have his name with this... When I thought we could make it just the two of us, the nightmare of seeing father hurting mother goes back inside my head... Hautning us and all the sh*t he did to our family---

Erase Fany, erase.

“Mum, don’t think too much about it... okay? Rest for the mean time...” I assured her and she stared at me. Mum looked like a mess, her eyes swollen and her hair disheveled. I should act myself... I should find a solution. I still got two weeks to be able to find money to pay for my tuition fee! I could also write a promissory note, ain’t I?

She lay on her bed and flipped on the other side, making me only see her back. Although I could still sense that she was sobbing, I left the room and went to the kitchen. Err, no food. I opened the refrigerator, oh no, not this. I realized I don’t even know how to heat the food. What the... Okay, I have this idea, I grabbed my bag which was resting on the floor and ate the biscuit Jessi gave me seven days ago.

I was planning to keep this because she gave this to me, the very first biscuit she gave me!!! This should be our first couple biscuit. *sighs* But sorry Jessi, you’ll forgive me right? I’m really hungry. I munched the biscuit and drank water. After taking a bath, I went to my room and thought of mother being scammed, I suddenly felt the need to cry myself. “We are being buried in debts Fany!!” I can’t even do a thing to help mum... I even asked her last Monday to buy me a pink vacuum cleaner...

I felt tears on my cheeks. We’re having financial problems and I don’t even know what shall I do...

*

“Tiffany!” Taeyeon giddily made her way towards me with Yuri beside her and Jessica behind them. Jessica looked so disappointed by the fact that Taeyeon hugged me first. “Good morning!” Tae greeted happily. Wow, she looks so fine now. But then I can still see eyebags beneath her happy smile. “You looked different Fany...” Taeyeon observed me and I tried my best to eye-smile.

“Oh, what’s the newspaper for?” Yuri pointed at the newspaper which I was holding.

“I’m uhh, reading news!” I lied at them and they looked at me weirdly. “Well, I thought that w-well, I should be updated with what’s happening around us, right?” I smiled at them and Tae and Yuri exchanged weird looks while Jessi just stared at me. “You guys think I’m weird?” I raise an eyebrow at them. I was waiting for an answer when Yoona suddenly emerged in front of us, hugging me from behind like a koala.

“Unnie~” Yoona whined.

“EH?! When did I become your unnie?!” I struggled as I saw Tae and Jessi covering their ears.

“UNNIE~” Yoona repeated baby-talking. Ugh, this is just so annoying. “I’m just practicing for our play Fany, Fany!!!” She patted my head.

“Sica!” She hugged Jessi and stopped when she saw Yuri. The three of us stared at Yuri and Yoona, waiting for some kind of war to happen.

“I have to go,” Yuri scowled at Yoona and left.

“Still enemies,” Tae answered which made Yoona scratch her cheek. “What happened when Yuri and you followed each other, anyway?” Taeyeon started interrogating again. She’s really back on track!

“Nothing,” Yoona looked down the ground and walked away. Both of them are acting so weird. It’s amazing their not bickering with each other now, and they’re sort of very uncomfortable with each other like before... but still... it felt as though their trying to avoid each other’s presence which is so new.

“Hmm, time for being detectives.” I looked at Taeyeon as she caressed her own chin like she has a long beard like Santa’s.

“I don’t want,” Jessi mumbled as we left Tae there, still staring into space, finding quite a hint as to what happened between Yuri and Yoona.

Why do I suddenly feel uncomfortable being alone with Jessi..?

“Hey, are you all right?” Jessi stared at me as she disturbed my thoughts. I tried to go away from her stare as I nodded. “Let’s go.” She suddenly grabbed my hand as we walk through the corridors.

“Where are we going...?” I asked her.

“Let’s ditch classes.” She said bluntly and flatly as her hand gripped on mine, as if not letting me go again. But what, we’re ditching classes?! What?! Jessi, intiating to ditch classes!?

“Huh..? I dun think we should---“ She stopped walking and I stopped too. She turned around to look at me and I avoided her eyes. I don’t want Jessi to know about my problem... I don’t want to put a burden to other people... I glanced at her and she suddenly embraced me. I was too shocked to know what she did so I just stood there, slowly returning her embrace... I controlled my tears, controlled them to the point that I was making my eyes larger like a tarsier although I can’t because my eyes are small.

When we parted, she caressed my hair and glanced at the ring which was resting on my finger.

“Let’s ditch?” She was asking me now and I slowly though unsuredly nodded at her. So we walked again, Jessi bringing me to our favourite spot inside the campus, the rooftop. As soon as we reached the door, she let go of my hand and walked towards the railings. The breeze calmly touching her face and hair, as her back faced me. I slowly walked, trying hard to keep myself compose so that she wouldn’t know something is wrong. But as I was trying to compose myself, she turned around and her eyes, they shot deep through mine.

“Are you all right..?” She asked me again which made me smile awkwardly, although I was trying to smile, genuinely.... but I failed nonetheless...

“You’re not all right...” She sighed and I looked down the pavement. “You won’t be telling it to me...?” She asked as she catiously made her way to me, the strands of my hair being caressed by her warm, soft fingers.

“I...” I stared at her and she thumbed my cheeks.

“Don’t force yourself... c’mon, let’s sit.” She sat down and patted the ground.

We sat on the railings and I rested my head on her shoulder. Her fingers, gently supporting my back as her other hand held mine. I looked at her and she smiled, and I found myself smiling too. But still... it’s a sad smile...

“I hate to see you like that...” She thumbed my cheeks by the back of her hand as I still stared at her, trying all my might to control everything I’m feeling. I hook my hand on her arms and she patted it. “I wish I could... make it go all away... whatever is making you sad...” She kissed me on the forehead and I closed my eyes.

“Jessi...” I started to break down and all I could do was to bury my face on her chest, my tears drowning me.... “I... I...”

“Fany-ah... it would be all right...” She assured me as she caressed my back now. “Hey, don’t cry, people might think you’re also a Sooyoungster.” She kid around with her poker face and I chuckled through my tears. I slapped her lightly before wiping my tears.

“H-How did you know something’s wrong...?”

“I just knew.” I smiled gently at her words. “Not all relationships need words right? Sometimes saying nothing at all is much understandable than words.” She kissed me on the forehead again. “Besides, you’re too transparent.”

“A-Am I..?”

“Well,” She chuckled and kissed me again. “Maybe because... I knew you too well...” I punched her on the arm.

“Is that what you’re like when you’re sad... punching your lover?” She raised an eyebrow and I pouted. “You like my b*tch face aren’t you?” She chuckled and pulled me closer, making me embrace her as we sat. I suddenly felt much, much better.

“Why do you want to ditch classes anyway?” I asked her as I could feel her sniffing through my hair.

“Because... I think... this is the time... you need me.” I felt her lips on my hair. “Only me,” She whispered and I embraced her tighter. “Are you feeling better, anyway?” She put her hand on my chin so that I would look at her.

“Yes, I do...” I smiled.

“Great,” As I rested my head on her chest, I could feel her breathing, her chest expanding then contracting again and her heart... beating... irregularly... I mean, it’s pounding...

“Are you nervous?” I asked as I listened attentively to her heart beat.

“Huh..?”

“Your heart is beating quite... fast...”

“What?” She moved away from me and she stared at me. I looked at her innocently.

“Hey! I need my Jessi to hug!”

“I’m not thinking of anything!!!” She said defensively. “It’s not what you think...” She looked away and I could see her blushing uncontrollably. HUH???? Did I say something wrong...?

“What...?” I creased my eyebrows as I observed her.

“Nothing!!” She moved closer again and embraced me. “Dense Fany,” She uttered and I stared at her with quite annoyance. “Oh, my girl looks pretty annoyed...” She teased and I embraced her tighter.

“My Fany... don’t cry...”

And she was right, why am I... crying again... I find it hard to control them this time...

“S-Sorry... I’m w-wetting your uniform...” I uttered.

“It’s all right... if crying makes you better then please do.”

“Listen, J-Jessi...” My first love story... HUH?! Whuut?! I think I’m watching too much SNSD.

I can’t keep this any longer... I need someone to listen... She cupped my face and stared into my eyes.

“What is it, Fany-ah?”

“W-Well... w-we’re buried...”

“Huh?”

“I mean... money...”

“Uhh...?”

I sighed.

“Y-You saw me... I was holding a newspaper... awhile ago. It’s because... mum has been s-scammed... and we’re buried in debts.... I d-don’t know what to do... And a-all I could do... is to find a job to pay for my tuition fee... M-Mum’s not even going out of her room... s-she’s constantly blaming h-herself... I-I I just don’t know w-what to do...” I admitted and cried to her. “I-I am s-sorry...” I sobbed harder and she was silencing me.

“Sssh, Fany...” She comforted me. “We can find a way out of this.”

“I-I’m s-sorry... I’m such a cry-baby...” I wiped my tears and she put my head on her chest.

“Don’t apologize, okay?” I suddenly felt her lips over mine. And she kissed me, very passionately. I stared at her after and she looked away. “Uhh, wrong timing for a kiss.” She admitted and I laugh wryly.

“Anyway, let’s go,” She stood up and grabbed my hand as I stared at her questioningly. “We’ll find a job.” She glanced back at me while smiling and we left the school campus.

*

“No, you’re not yet legal to work.” A bald man scrutinizingly stared at us as I could feel him staring back at Jessi’s poker face. This is the 20th application we’ve made and we’re rejected still...

“Let’s go, Fany.” She scowled and we looked for another one, crossing all the jobs on the newspaper.

“Excuse me,” I eye-smiled to one of the staff of a supermarket. Maybe my eye-smile would work! I could work as a cashier or the ones who are arranging cucumbers on the stalls! But I don’t think Jessi would be very amused.

“Yes..?”

“May I apply...?”

“Age..?”

“Err---“

“Not taking minors,” The staff walked away and left us there.

“I’m giving up... Nobody would want a sixteen-year old... it’s impossible...” I sighed as I stared at Jessi who’s also sighing with me.

“Maybe your mother can borrow money to my mother..?” She suggested but I shook my head.

“Thank you... but Jessi, that won’t make mum feel better... I think, I still have one last chance... Mum said... she’ll try to get her salary in advance...” I assured her as I lie. I don’t want to be a burden to Jessi... “W-Well... but if that doesn’t work... maybe, I’ll try considering your suggestion...” She still stared at me while thinking then after a while, she nodded.

“You... say so...” She said slowly. And I felt guilty by lying. What should I do now...? “Let’s go home?” She asked me and I nodded.

As soon as we reached the house and I got out of her bike, Jessi waved at me. Although I would like a kiss, mum might see us and she would feel much worse... I sighed.

“Something’s wrong..?” Jessi asked as I opened the gate.

“Mum’s slippers are not on the doormat.” I glanced at her.

“You check and I’ll wait here.” I nodded at her and as soon as I reached the doorknob, I turned it around.

“It’s locked!!” I panicked. I tried turning it around again but it’s really lock. Jessi got out of her bike and turned it around too.

“It’s really locked.” She looked at me and I sighed. “Don’t you have any other way inside? If there’s no way you could get inside---“

“I’ll just wait for mother...” I don’t want to think of things. I’m so worried. Where’s mum..?

“I won’t leave you here, it’s getting darker. Well I’ll go if you’ll go with me. You can stay over my house first.”

“I’ll wait for mum. You should go. Your house is quite far...” I declined her offer. Where’s mum..?

“Then I’ll wait with you here.” Sha sat, placing her back on the door and crossing her arms. I stared at her.

“You should go home.” I tried pulling her to stand but she closed her eyes to answer me. “Hey, I don’t want to make your mother worry. Jessi,” I pulled her again but she resisted. “Jessi, you’re so stubborn. What are you doing?” She opened her eyes slightly to look at me.

“I’m sleeping first,” She closed her eyes again.

“Jessi!” I frowned.

“What, my love?” Jessi opened one of her eyes and her arms motioning me to embrace her.

I sighed and went closer to embrace her when the door suddenly opened which made Jessi fell on the tiled-floor of our living room.

“Ouch...”

“Mum! I thought you went... somewhere...” I stood frozen in place. Did she hear it?! “What, my love?” Oh no. What should I say!!!!

“Are you all right, dear..? I’m really, really sorry!” Mum was helping Jessi to stand up now. “Does anything hurt?” Jessi shook her head and she glanced at me. And I know what her glance meant: ‘Fany do you think she heard it?’ and I answered with an unsured face.

Mum looked better.

“Err, mum, this is...”

“Jessica! Your co-class rep, isn’t it?”

“Uhh, yes...”

She looked at Jessi then me. It felt so uncomfortable like she had found us...

“Auntie, I guess I have to go.” Jessi scratched her head, breaking the stares of mum. “I would just stay because I thought... you’re still not around and I don’t want Fany to be left waiting alone...” She said shyly. So adorable~

“Thank you Jessica as always, I remembered asking you to watch over the house while Fany dear is still asleep. You’re such a good friend. ..” Mum smiled at her and Jessi waved at me after she bowed in front of my mother. And Jessi’s face felt a little unrelaxed as she glanced at me. I waved back, unrelaxed too. Mum might think of things. Did she hear it..?

I looked at mum and she looked at me too.

“Tiffany, may I ask you something..?” She said as soon as we went inside. Mother is calling me by my real name. She only calls me by my real name when she thinks I’m doing something bad... Oh my God, I hope--- “Why was Jessica calling you ‘milord’?” She twitched her eyebrows.

I stared at her.

“Tiffany?” She called out again.

“We’re... uhh, practicing for a play...” I stared at her some more. I was literally controlling my laugh.

“I thought you’re bullying her!” She cried out.

“Eh?”

She went her way towards the kitchen, putting plates on the tables.

“Anyway, I tried searching in the internet about the scammer but... I can’t find anything...” She frowned at me and that same problem is still haunting us again... She sighed.

“I’ll try getting my salary in advance...”

“Jessi said...” Mother looked at me and I bit my lip. I should have never told that. But mum was wating for me to continue. “H-Her... mum... would let us borrow to her... if... we haven’t got any... solution to this...” I bit my lip some more. Mum might be angry. I should have never told her that I’ve told Jessi about our problem...

“I’ll get my salary in advance.” She just looked away and went inside her room, leaving the plates and food alone on the table. And me, again, eating alone.

I sighed. Pride goes here.

This is going to be... really... hard...

24 First Unexpectancy

Only one day left before the examinations and I still don’t have the money to pay for my tuition fee... I already wrote a promissory note that I would be able to pay it next week. Err, but I don’t know personally if I could pay it... Mum said, she’ll make a way...

Mother was so stubborn... pride is getting on her way, she doesn’t want other’s help or is it the fact that... she’s afraid for our debts to accumulate again? That, I would never know.

I sighed as I straightened my back while our Science teacher kept on babbling about the giant red spot on Jupiter. I would make glances on Jessica every once in a while, why does it felt like she had been sleeping like a log these past few days. I stared at her and I sighed again, I wonder if she feels rejected after I said no, for the second time, to her offer about my mum borrowing to her mum... And she doesn’t even ask me about it ever again... I sighed again. She was literally going home before me, telling me that she had to finish some important errands at home.

She’s even quieter than usual.

I sighed for the third time.

“Class dismissed!” The Science teacher announced and I just slammed my back on the chair. I’m in no mood to eat my lunch, not in this state that Jessi is still sleeping...

“You all right?” Taeyeon looked at me with a worried face and I answered with a nod. “You sure?” She asked again and I nodded even more. “Won’t you wake up your girlfriend and eat?”

“I’m in no mood to eat...” I looked away.

“Do you and Jessica have a problem?”

“No...” I answered weakly. Do we have..?I don’t know myself...

“It’s not like I’m not paying attention to not noticed she’s not walking you home these days... And that she’s always sleeping like sleeping beauty.” She admitted.

“She said her father got home from overseas work and she should spend quality time with him...”

“Oh... so she’s always staying up late at night? Don’t you think it’s---“ She stopped in mid sentence as she smiled awkwardly at Jessi. I in turn, looked at Jessi too and noticed she just woke up.

“Fany-ah,” She stared at me with droopy eyes then yawned. “Let’s eat lunch?” She offered and I nodded, still uncertain but nodded anyways... I don’t want to think of things, I’m having migraines just thinking of money problems.

“Let’s go...” I uttered as I felt Jessi’s hand on mine. I saw her glance at Taeyeon with a look of disinterest.

“Wait...” Taeyeon called out.

“Where’s Yuri by the way..?” I tried cutting her off. I don’t want to hear what Tae might say.

“Oh, she headed to the cafeteria first...” She stared at me then at Jessi, as if contemplating what to do. “Jessica, may I ask you a favour?” Taeyeon smiled at me and I looked at her with doubt. Jessi slowly made her way to Tae.

“Jessica,” Taeyeon cleared her throat, intentionally making me hear what she would tell to Jessi. “Answer honestly, whatever I would ask you okay?” Jessi stared at her and nodded, her face looked bored. Heeh, I’m amused though.

What would Tae ask..?

“You won’t...” Taeyeon glanced at me before continuing. “...do anything that might hurt Fany right?” She raised an eyebrow. What the heck, Tae!

“Of course,” Jessi said, confidently. “Why would I..?”

“Just making sure,” Taeyeon said. “Or else...” She smirked at Jessica and I felt embarrassed.

“I won’t hurt Fany, in every way.” Jessi frowned. “I’ve waited for her for five years, I won’t be neglecting it by just hurting her.” She turned her back from Tae and stared into my eyes. For a moment, I felt... really... stupid... Am I just thinking too much..? I looked away to avoid her gaze when I felt her hand on mine again.

“I love Fany so much, I’d rather hurt myself than her.” She glanced at Tae and we left the room.

*

“I’m sorry about Tae...” I looked at her.

“It’s okay...”

“It’s just that... Jessi, well... I... I am just wondering why is it... you seemed... far away... these... days...”

“Far away...?” She asked as her knife sliced the meat.

“I mean...”

“I’m going home before you and I’m sleeping always?” I nodded. “I’m sorry Fany, things at home... are kind of making me... busy...” She admitted.

“May I help you with... anything?” I offered.

“Just... stay with me...” She stared at me with her eyes that felt like they were pleading. “Anyway, how’s your tuition fee going...?” She asked out of the blue after placing a spoonful of rice on her mouth.

“I wrote a promissory note to inform the principal that I would be... paying it... next week.” I tried to sound relieved, but still how could you be relieved when you know... the problem is still there..?

“That’s good.” She patted me on the shoulder.

“But...” I bit my lip. “I’m still not sure when would mother’s money... arrive or if it would be arriving...” I sighed heavily.

“I won’t ask you to persuade your mother to borrow from my mother...” She sighed too. “But... well, I know... your mother will find a way.” She smiled, gently.

“Thanks Jessi...” I tried to smile back.

“When would your dad go back anyways?”

“Tomorrow,” She sounded neutral like she’s not sad. My thoughts are bursting out in contrasts with what I want to think... I’m still doubting if her father really got home from overseas. I mean, she seemed not excited and Yoona seemed to not talk about it, they’re neighbours but stil, I don’t hear them talking about Jessi’s father’s arrival, should I----

Argggh, I hate myself. I’m thinking too much! Seriously, I feel like Jessi is only telling me this so that she could hide her disappointment with me...

“Won’t you get sad..?” I asked.

“It just takes one to get used to...” She put her fork on the cake and ate it.

*

When dismissal came, Jessi kissed me on the cheek after telling me that she has to go home first. I felt the need to follow and stalk her to know the truth but then... I’m thinking of mother. This is insane, why does life felt like crumpling me! Grr. What you’re doing in my life now author, it’s not funny at all! Hmf.

*insert author begging for forgiveness here*

“She went ahead again?” Tae said as I glanced at her.

“What is that butterfly glasses you’re wearing?” I looked at her weirdly and Sunny caught my attention because she too, was wearing the same butterfly glasses too.

“Time for us to be detectives! Yah!” Tae kicked into the air and Sunny kicked with her too. These girls! They look so dorky!!

“What are you planning to do now mini?” I raised an eyebrow. “Even telling Sunny to wear that weird eyeglasses and brown coat with you.” I rolled my eyes.

“Hey! You guys are in your depressive state and I can’t find a partner! So, well I hunt Sunny down because of this once in a lifetime case that should be solved! Hiyaa!” She punched on the air.

“Sunny, are you sure you know what you’ve gotten yourself into?” I looked at Sunny.

“Hiyaa! Yes!” She punched like Tae then she hit Tae’s nose. “OMG, sorry Tae! Your nose! Your nose!!”

Weird people!

I laughed suddenly and Tae stared at me.

“Hey, my nose had been punched in this fic three times already! It’s not funny at all!!”

“Anyway, what case are you guys trying to solve? Oh, and how’s... Hyoyeon..?” I tried to ask, even though I know Tae is still hurting.

“She’s... uh...” Sunny glanced at Taeyeon unsuredly before continuing. Tae just nodded and turned her back, trying all her might to divert her attention by fixing the butterfly eyeglasses on her face. “Well, Hyo and Soo’s finally... out in public.”

“Oh,” Is all I can say.

“There,” Sunny pointed out of the window and I saw Hyo and Sooyoung walking hand in hand with smiles on their faces. They seemed to be really a happy couple, only, they were scary eyes behind the trees, scary fangirls!

“Wow, felt like fangirls can’t hurt Hyo now.” I said absent mindedly as I watch Sooyoung caress Hyo’s hair. I still feel angry that Tae’s first time was this player! Hmf.

“Well, yes. Sooyoung gave up her fame, even hiding her face with a paper bag so that people won’t be affected by her pheromones...” Sunny said proudly.

So, Soo really love Hyo then...?

“Anyway, what case are you and Tae solving?” I raised an eyebrow. Tae’s games are weirder than having to reach your nose using your tongue. WTF.

“Heeh, Fany.” Taeyeon smirked at me and I could feel the surrounding getting moist. “Sunny and I now present you the case of ‘Two Whys’!” She proudly said as she put the magnifying glass in front of her eyes.

“’Two Whys’?” I asked undoubtedly. “As in ‘why’?”

“’Why’!” She laughed evilly and Sunny laughed with her. God, weirdos!

“What is this ‘Two Whys’ about though?” I stared at them and they suddenly stopped laughing as their eyes narrowed on me. They started whispering between each other and I could still hear Tae’s faint words like ‘She’s really this dense you know, and she’s slow too!’.

“Yah! Kim Taeyeon!” I stopped them and they chuckled in front of me. “How could one getyour case entitled ‘Two Whys’? It seemed absurd! ‘Whys’ as in ‘Finding the reason why’, it doesn’t make any sense!”

“OMG, Tiffany, you’re really dense.” Sunny looked at Tae and Tae glanced proudly as if she had just proven a theory. This micro-organism!

“It’s not ‘why’ as in the ‘why’ that’s included in wh-questions!” Taeyeon scratched her head and stared at me. “Now, you got it?” She raised an eyebrow and I shook my head. I don’t get it!

“You’re not really paying attention.” Tae said in disappointment.

“What? Now you’re telling me to be observant when I myself---“ I cut myself, Tae should not know about my money problems.

“What?”

“Nothing! What is this ‘Two Whys’?”

“It’s not ‘why’!! It is ‘y’.” Taeyeon frowned.

“’Why’?”

“OMG, Tiffany, it’s not ‘why’.” Sunny rolled her eyes now.

“’Y’?” I drew the letter on the air and they both nodded. “What about ‘two y’s’?” I suddenly gave up after thinking. I don’t know what they are really talking about!

“The ‘y’s’!!!” Taeyeon said frustrated by the fact I can’t get it. “The two girls whose names start with ‘y’!” She crossed her arms and it dawned upon me that they’re solving a case about Yoona and Yuri. HUH? They would make them up? Wow.

“So, what about them? Do you really think those two will make up? I mean they haven’t been friends, and from the start they hate each other...” Just thinking about it makes me frown.

“They are avoiding each other which is new!” Taeyeon smiled widely and I nodded.

“Then what? Maybe they just don’t want to see each other’s faces.”

“But then, Fany... think about it...” Taeyeon started walking back and forth. “Think about what happened when they followed each other. Look, whenever I would ask Yuri about it, she would just say it’s not my business or she would tell me that nothing happened. And her face looked like it had been crumpled like a paper! And Yoona too, she looked so confused whenever she would see Yuri! There was also an instance where I saw Yoona hiding on one of the school’s plants when Yuri and I were walking down the hallway! DUH! SOMETHING HAPPENED BETWEEN THEM!” Taeyeon smirked like she just solved why there are tons of airplanes disappearing in the Bermuda triangle.

Wait... WHAT?!

“SOMETHING HAPPENED BETWEEN THEM!”

“OMG Tae!” I covered my mouth.

“Now you got it!” She raised both of her eyebrows and winked at Sunny.

“OMG, Tae, Sunny... Yoona’s v...” They wrinkled their eyebrows at me. “Yoona’s.... v-v-virginity!” I shook my head. How could Yuri do that to Yoona!?

Suddenly Tae hit me on the head.

“It’s not ‘that’! You pervy Fany!!” Tae slapped me again.

“Oww,” I uttered as I rubbed my forehead. “So this time, that something is other somethings.” I admitted and they nodded.

“Anyway Fany, we have to go.” Tae glanced on her watch.

“Yoona’s dismissal is this time, so we should hurry now.” Sunny nodded at Tae.

“You guys are really serious about... this...”

“Those two are fishy.” Tae narrowed her eyes like Detective Conan. Well, Conan and her looked a like... especially the height. I laughed inside my mind. HA-HA-HA!

“Bye Fany! And oh, about Jessi, I know her reason is certainly valid.” Tae winked at me and I nodded.

Sure, maybe, as always, I’m just thinking too much.

*

I placed my shoe on the rack quietly as I could feel the ambiance of our financial problem around me again. I sighed as I remember I shouldn’t insist or pressure mum about paying my tuition. I walked timidly towards the living room when I saw mum... dancing.

Huh? Why the heck is she dancing...?

My eyes popped out as soon as my attention had been caught by something on her hands.

“Fany! Fany dear!” Mum’s eyes were near tears as she smiled and grabbed my hand, making me dance with her. OMG, what’s happening with mum? Is this the effect of money...?

“Mum, wait, what is...”

“Fany! WE COULD NOW PAY YOUR TUITION FEE!!” She started dancing ‘Gee’ in front of me and my mouth was gaping in surprise.

“Wait, wait...” I composed myself. “What do you mean---“ Mother suddenly hugged me.

“MONEY! YAH!!” She yelled on the living room and danced again after parting with me.

“Wait, mum, please keep calm... what do you mean you could pay my tuition fee now?”

“You don’t want?”

“No, it’s not what I meant, so you already got you salary in advance and...”

“NO!! LOOK FANY!!!” She rotated herself 360 degrees and handed me an envelope. I read the writing on the envelope which read, in big, black, bold letters: “TO MISS HWANG”. I opened it slowly and my eyes and mouth widened.

“Mum... are you sure... this is...” I counted the money and it dawned upon me that it was 800 dollars all in all. I mean how come..? This money is so big..? How could one---

“Mum... are you really sure...?” I stared at mum and she hugged me again. “But mum... this money is so big... I mean... how come...?”

“FANY! When I got home, I just found this on our mail box....” She hugged the envelope again. “This is heaven sent~” She sighed heavenly and twirled around, before kissing the envelope of money. “Maybe the scammer... returned it to us...”

“But mum, we might be mistaken...”

“But my name is here!” She pointed at the letters. “It read ‘TO MISS HWANG’!!” She smiled wider. “You can already pay your tuition fee!! You could also buy again a bigger pink vacuum cleaner!!” She danced around again. “Fany! Our problem is finally solved!!”

Is this really true? I mean... am I not dreaming...?

“We’re given more than what we have lost.” Mum smiled at me and she returned to her room. After a moment, she went out and headed towards the kitchen. “Fany dear, let’s go, we should eat dinner now.” Mum’s eyes sparkled as I stood frozen into place.

Did the scammer really return our money...? But then.... she returned more...?Huh?! Doesn’t make any sense!

*

I stood towards the door when suddenly Jessi hugged me from behind.

“Why is Fany-ah standing towards the door..? Nervous for the exams..?” She asked and I smiled as I feel her arms on my waist.

“Well, not. I’m seeing weirdos again.” I chuckled as I could see Taeyeon examining Yuri with her magnifying glass. “Is my Jessi feeling sad because her father... already... went away...?” I tapped her hand and I felt her close her eyes.

“Aish Taeyeon! You’re annoying me!” I heard Yuri yell at her on the background.

“Not really, you’re with me.” Jessi finally said.

“Why is it you’re being so sweet so early in the morning?”

“I just missed you...” I thumbed her hand when I felt something on it. “We’ll go home together again after the exams...”

“Hey, why do you have a band aid here?” I faced her and stared at the band aid on one of her hands.

“Just a scratch... I was cutting meat last night.” She smiled and I stared at her.

“But you also got a scratch...” I thumbed her right cheek. “On you cheek...” I furrowed my eyebrows and she rubbed my hand which was resting on her cheek.

“Really..? I didn’t know I also got a scratch on my face.” She frowned. “Where did I get this?”

“Exams are starting!” The teacher suddenly announced and we went towards our seats.

Why does Jessica have scratches..?

As soon as Sunny passed the paper for our English exam, I glanced at Jessi to tell her ‘good luck’ and she smiled back.

*

“Woah, this is easy.” I said to myself as I checked my answers for the third time. I stretched my legs and arms and made an unusual sound which made the teacher look at me. I smiled awkwardly and glanced back at my paper again.

“Five minutes left.” The teacher announced and I felt the need to look at Jessica who was sleeping.

SLEEPING!? In the middle of the examinations, SHE IS SLEEPING?! What the heck.

“Jessi! Jessi!” I whispered hard as I cautiously glanced at her paper and saw she had only answered five numbers out of seventy items. What’s happening to her?! I whispered again as I stared on the band aid on her hand but still, she’s sleeping. I kicked the legs of the chair now to wake her up.

No luck, she’s still sleeping. I’m already panicking! It’s not like her to sleep in the middle of examinations!!

Okay, I have this idea. This is the only way. One, two... three...

I purposely dropped my metal Hello Kitty pencil case on the ground and it made a really, really loud sound which made everyone stare at me and I told them sorry, even the teacher frowned at me. The hell I care, I glanced at Jessica and she was already awake.

“Three minutes left.” Jessi glanced at me and her eyes widened slightly. She started writing furiously on the paper and I know that she was just guessing everything. SHOTGUN... Omo....

“Pass your papers N.O.W!”

*

“Err Jessi...” I stared at her. “..are you okay? You look tired...”

“I’m fine.” She grinned at me and I stared at her. She looked so exhausted...

“Are you sure? But you guessed ¾ of the test!!”

“I would be fine.” She winked at me and I smiled at her.

“You look really tired...” I admitted.

“Really..?” She asked, as the silence suddenly engulfed us.

“Anyway, will you accompany me now?” I talked just to break the silence. Why do Jessi looked different..?

“Where..?”

“I’ll pay my tuition fee already.”

“Taeyeon! AISH! What do you want! Stop magnifying me!” Jessi and I turned around to see Yuri frowning as Taeyeon followed her around. “STOP IT YOU SMALL INSECT! What do you want?!”

“I told you, if you wouldn’t tell me about it, I won’t stop!” Taeyeon grinned widely at her as Sunny stood like a bouncer, waiting for Tae to tell her to do something.

“I told you already! Three times already! I sent that Yoona away after she followed me!” Yuri gritted her teeth.

“You’re not telling the truth ! Yoona won’t speak about this matter!! Something’s really, really fishy!!”

“Wait guys, stop this, okay?” I sighed at them and they both looked at me.

“This is not your business Tiffany!” Taeyeon and Yuri said in unison and Jessica stood beside me.

“Let’s go Fany-ah, heartbroken people should be avoided.” Jessi grabbed me by the hand and as we went out of the room, we could hear Yuri shouting ‘What are you pertaining at you silly cold-face Jung!’ under her breath and Taeyeon telling Yuri to shut up and just answer her.

“They’re pissing me off,” Jessi glanced at me and smiled. “I told you, your mum will find a way.”

“But Jessi... the money had been found on our mailbox... I’m unsure if...”

“Fany, is the money addressed to your mother...?”

“W-Well... yes... but s-still...”

“Then no need to worry, okay?” She assured me and put her arms on my shoulder. I felt something inside me that I can’t explain as I stared at the scratch on her cheek. The sight of the pale red line makes me worried again, what really happened? I feel like it’s connected on the band aid on her hand...

“Thanks Jessi...” I smiled back warmly. “Jessi, are you really all right... I mean your scratches...”

“I told you, I just cut myself with the knife.” She chuckled. “And about the scratch on my cheek, I don’t know where the hell I got it. My girlfriend sure is so worried about me.” I slapped her lightly.

“Of course!! Why shouldn’t I?” I pouted before she flicked me on the forehead as we walk.

“Hey, that hurts!”

“You’re too cute to be ignored.” She leaned towards me and kissed me on the forehead. She only broke away when we heard someone clearing his throat.

“No P.D.A in school.” Our Science teacher frowned. “And girl-to-girl relationships are prohibited here.” He frowned further, making Jessi stare at him icily.

“W-Well, I’ll let you two go since this is the f-first time.” He cleared his throat again and walked away.

“Man, our teacher sure likes you!” I said as we walked towards the accounting office.

“Eh!? You’re getting jealous again? It’s not like I would replace you with some dirty, old, bald man.” She chuckled and I chuckled too.

“What if, when I get old I’ll look like him?!” I suddenly asked her as we fell in line.

“Well, if it’s you... however you may look in the future, I’ll still love you.” She grinned at me.

“Really..?” I raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah, and even if you’ll get tons of wrinkles and your hair becomes white, I would still love you.”

“Hmm, not bad,” I teased her.

“Even if you’ll be grandmother Fany now, I would still kiss you.” She grinned wider which made me blush. She leaned closer making me feel her breath on my face. Man, Jessi, stop teasing me back at the wrong place! We might get detention!!

“You’re always winning. And so persistent...” I said shyly as I try to take steps behind.

“HA-HA. Of course, it’s because I’m blinded by you.” She winked at me while she leaned closer again. Our arms slightly brushing against each other...

Woo...

“Ehem,” The accountant on the office stared at us with disinterest while she cleared her throat, making Jessi turn around. “You’re paying, right?” I nodded and handed her the money.

We’re being so into P.D.A. Err.

25 First Love

I stared at the bulletin board as everyone tried to look at the result of the exams last week. I should be finding my name but I still can’t swallow the fact that---

“Omo, Fany...” Taeyeon jumped giddily as I see beads of tears on her eyes. “I-I still can’t believe it...” She hugged me and I patted her at the back.

“Congrats. You beat my girlfriend.” I fake a frown as soon as we parted.

“Hey, it’s not my fault she guessed ¾ of the questions on our English exam and that she slept! Well, she’s still good, I mean look...” She pointed on Jessi’s name. “She’s second! I’m first... and...” Her eyes suddenly widened.

“And you became ahead of her just because of the point-two difference.” I chuckled.

“Yah! Fany! Stop it! I knew I just got lucky! I already know!” She started babbling other words out of being piss, some I don’t even understand. What a dork!

“Well, I can’t believe that my girlfriend is such a genius.” I said proudly at her and Tae puckered her lips slightly. “Hey, best friend, that’s all right. Savour your moment.” I patted her on the back.

“You’re so sarcastic!” She pounded her hand in front of me.

“I’m not! I’m really happy for you.” I winked. “Two of the most important people in my life are geniuses.” Oh, I forgot, I should look at my name. Heeh.

“Anyway I’m....” I narrowed my eyes on the bulletin as I try to find my name.

“I already saw your name!” Taeyeon tapped me on the back.

“Where..?”

“There!” She pointed.

“Huh? That’s your name. Are you trying to tease me huh?” I scowled.

“You did better than me!!”

“Huh? How come..?” I asked, puzzled.

“You’re number zero!!” She laughed like a witch which made all the people stare at us.

“I’m number seven. Not bad, I’m not even studying.”

“Wow, Tae’s joking and it’s not really funny.” Yuri emerged behind Tae’s back and and pulled Tae’s hair. Sunny followed and Hyo too, with, no other than, Choi of course.

“Wow, Sica’s not yet here?” Sunny looked around which made Choi flinched. Wow, the player’s afraid of my Jessi. Heeh.

“Tiffany.” Hyoyeon called out to me and I looked at her. “Sooyoung, well she...”

“I’m sorry Tiffany.” She bowed her head. “Forgive me.”

“It’s all right...” I uttered. “But don’t get me wrong, I haven’t forgiven you completely.” I frowned as I remembered her act of advantage towards Tae. Tae who in turn doesn’t pay attention with Choi’s presence because of Yuri’s hair-pulling.

“Thank you Tiffany.” Hyoyeon patted me at the back and Sunny posed an ‘okay’ sign at me. Choi in turn smile at me, omo, that same light again... making everyone around say ‘aww’ and ‘oww’ at the sight. WTH!!

“Oww! Aww!” Tae whined, I thought she had been blinded by Choi’s pheromones but her face was crumpled by the force of Yuri’s hand on her hair. “Yul, stop it...” Tae tried to remove Yuri’s hand but failed at it.

“You think I’ve forgotten your detective schemes huh, you tiny insect.” Yuri smirked at her.

“Aww~ aww... It hurts Yul! At least you’ve told me about you and Yoon---“

Yuri covered Taeyeon’s mouth and smiled awkwardly at me.

“Oi, Yuri! What’s that about?” I frowned as I insisted.

“Nothing! It’s really nothing! Tae’s acting dorky again! HA-HA!” Yuri said nervously.

“But--”

“It’s nothing serious! Tiffany! I just told her that I really, really sent that ugly Yoona away!! HA-HA!” Yuri defended as I could see Tae turning blue.

“Is Tae all right?” I asked worried and Yuri let her go. Taeyeon coughed and glanced at Yuri again, which made Yuri glare at her, as if to tell Tae not to spill the beans.

I really want to know!!! I don’t think---

“Well, anyway, Tae and I should go.” Yuri suddenly grinned then winked at me. I glanced around and suddenly saw Seohyun walking towards me. “Take care, dense-Fany.” Tae and Yuri waved at me, leaving me behind with Seo-sshi.

“Hey! You guys! Help me here! You can’t just---“ I yelled as I watch them walk away. I glanced back at Hyo and Sunny for help.

“Err, we have to go Tiffany.” Hyoyeon smiled awkwardly and I nodded as I watched all of my back-ups go away.

“Fany-unnie!” Seohyun smiled at me and grabbed my hand. “I can’t believe I am in front of the marvelous, stunning and sexy Fany-unnie!” She smiled foolishly at me and I could feel sweat on my neck. “You’re waiting for Sica-unnie?” She asked and I nodded. I still can’t believe that she’s Jessi’s cousin.

“You do know about Choi and Hyo---“

“Yes! It’s so nice to see Sooyoung-unnie’s head covered in a paper bag! It stopped my nosebleeding sessions. I still wonder though why my nose would bleed everytime she would smile at me before. Hmm.” She put one of her fingers on her lip, as if thinking deeply about it.

“Oh! Fany-unnie, Sica-unnie is already here!” I saw her waved at Jessi and I turned my back to wave at my girlfriend too.

“Seo what are you---“ Before Jessi could even finish Seo already hugged her which made Jessi looked very uncomfortable. After their hug, she glanced at the bulletin then smiled at me.

“I think I kinda screwed up.” She grinned at me.

“Hooh, my girlfriend is so airy.” I fanned myself.

“Sica-unnie is your what?!” Seohyun yelled at us and we both looked at her withdisinterest.

“Let’s go Fany,” Jessi grabbed my hand and we walked away from her.

“Hey! Unnies!!”

“Seo is so dense, she is doing cameo appearances in this fanfic and she still doesn’t know that you’re my lover.” I chuckled.

“Well, it seemed like everyone had been infected by the Fany virus.” She glanced at me to smirk.

“Huh? What Fany virus are you talking about?!”

“You know, in this fanfic, everyone had their own dense-state.” She suddenly laughed and I pouted at her.

“This is not funny! Author should stop making me so dense! Grr.”

“Hey, it’s just the way I like it: Innocent Fany, dense Fany, and pervy Fany.”

“I’m not pervy!” I slapped her.

“Yes you are.”

“How come you should know, you’re not even part of some of the chapters, there are also chapters where you’re only doing cameo appearances! DUH!” I started to argue, remembering about Chapter 22.

“I’m sitting beside the author everytime she types on the keyboard, that’s why I know.” She smirked which made me let go of her hand.

“That’s so unfair! All you people could read my mind and you guys don’t even have your own POVs! Pff.” I walked ahead of her.

“Hey!” She called out and I glanced back at her and put my tongue out.

“Catch me.” I started running on the corridors and Jessi was running after me. HA-HA.

*

“One, Two, Three~” Jessi and I both raised our arms as she pedalled on her bike. “Oh... oh...” We were both laughing as we raised our arms on the air as she tried balancing her bike with only her feet pedalling it. I hugged her as soon as we finished fooling around.

“Do you like my warmth?” She suddenly asked.

“You’re cold outside but whenever I hold your hand, you’re so warm.”

“You didn’t answer my question.” I could sense that she was frowning.

“I like your warmth. It sends that enticing feeling on my skin, making my heart feel protected by your warmth.” I snuggled on her back.

“Quite an answer,” She teased making me pinch her on the waist. “Oww,” She uttered.

“Anyway, where are we going?” I asked her as I rested my chin on her shoulder as she pedalled her bike.

“Did you tell your mother that---“

“Yes, for the third time Jessi, I told her that I would be going home late today.” I smiled at her and kissed her on the cheek and her bike suddenly swayed.

“Hey! Don’t go kissing me out of the blue, especially ifwe’re riding a bike. I might lose balance.” She said as she pushed the break.

“Urm, sorry. I just can’t resist you know...”

“You always make me weak.” She said out of the blue.

“Is that a bad thing..?”

“No, I like that feeling... most.” She stopped her bike and I glanced around at the grassy area near the river. “Here we are.” We both got out of the bike and stared as the sun sets quietly on the orange horizon.

“Beautiful,” I uttered.

“Breathtaking.” She said and I stared at her and she was already staring at me. I blushed. Oh man, I still blush. “You’re breathtaking as the sun lay transparent in your eyes, and as your hair mixes with the slight orange color of the horizon.” She tucked strands of hair on my ears and smiled at me.

I blushed harder.

“Let’s go down.” She reached for my hand as we went down the grassy area.

“What are we doing here?” She didn’t speak but as soon as we reached the bottom, there is a tent, amat and a basket of food near the river. “Wow, where did you get these things ready?”

“I... well, told Yoona to put them for me...” We continued to walk until we were nearer to the tent.

“This is my favourite place out of all the places I’ve been.” She said as she stared at the glowing river. “I hope you’ll also like it.” She smiled at me. “The wait is going to be long... before we could see the stars...” She glanced at me as she sat on the grass and patted it, so that I would sit beside her. She looked at her watch and glanced back at me.

“Jessi...”

“Fany...”

We said at the same time. We both looked away and started flushing just like the very first time.

“Uhh, you go first...” She scratched her head as she smiled at me.

“Nothing, I just wanna say thank you.” I eye-smiled at her and she just stared at me with her mouth slightly opened. “You look stupid with your awed expression.” I chuckled.

“It just amazes me that I get to fall in love with you many times already.” She closed her opened mouth and laid her eyes on me longer than usual. “Over and over again...” She held my hand and put it on her chest.

“Your heart is beating faster again.” I smiled gently as I put her hand this time on my chest.

“You too,” She grinned.

“Thanks for everything, Fany-ah. You changed me.... for the better...” She stared at me and caressed my cheek. I closed my eyes at the strong current running through her hand towards my cheek.

“I can’t even put into words... how important you are to me...”

“You’re so cheesy, you know that?” I grinned at her.

“Because I get to look stoic at times...” She glanced at the swaying grass then back at me. “That’s why I want to tell you... when I feel the courage... how much I cherish you...”

“Not all relationships need too much words, remember?” I smiled at her and she nodded.

“May I embrace you?” She asked me and I initiated the embrace, pulling her closer to me than ever. We stayed in that position longer and we kissed, passionately, our hearts pouring the love we have towards each other.

I still don’t get what Tae said by using other ‘parts’. Err.

*

“Stars,” She pointed on the vast sky filled with blinking stars and the moon, heaving its light towards all of them. I tilted my head up and smiled.

“This is just so stunning...”

“Marvelous and sexy,” She stared at me teasingly and I laughed.

“Now I know why you two are cousins.” I teased her as I watch her slouched and stretched her feet. Afterwards, she was already lying on the grass and looked at me.

“The view is more beautiful when you’re lying.” She stared at me and I obliged myself to lie beside her.

“I think I could trace the Orion here.” I pointed at the stars and started connecting them, invisibly. She touched my hand which was pointing on the constellation, her hand softly and gently tracing down towards the ring she gave me. She raised her other hand and we both looked at our hands, as the moon shone through it.

“You’re wearing it...” I said, touched by her act.

“It’s perfect right? They’re perfect together.” We both looked back at our hands again as the rings shimmered through the vast sky. I nooded at her and smiled.

“Fany, do you see that?” Jessi stared at the brightest and slightly largest star, a part of the Orion constellation.

“That star sure outshone all of the others....” I admired the star before I could sense that Jessi was staring at me.

“You’re like that, you outshone all of them.” She flipped and faced me, her hand reaching for my hair. “And maybe we should start renaming that star.” Still it bothered me, the scratch on her face... from where was it...?

“What’s the name of that star?” I glanced at her and we both glanced back at the star.

“It’s Canopus, it’s used for spacecraft navigation.” I flipped too, so that I could face her.

“What should be Canopus’s new name then?” I asked as I could feel her hand on my waist, pulling me closer.

“Jeti,” She grinned.

“Well, I like it. It’s named after us.” I smiled widely, remembering Tae and Yuri. She then embraced me. “Jessi...” I looked at her and she looked back at me. “You know what I’m afraid of?” She shook her head. “I’m afraid that I’m loving you less than you’re loving me...” I stared at her for a moment and she smiled gently at me.

“No, you’re not. You’re giving me something that’s incomparable... a love that’s too overwhelming and I’m don’t care to get drowned by it.” She held my hand and put it on her cheek and closed her eyes. “You know what I’m afraid of?” She opened her eyes and stared at me. “I’m afraid of the future... I’m afraid if I can keep you with me forever... I’m afraid that you might not want my love anymore.... that you might find someone better... more deserving. That someone or something might come between us... I’m so afraid that there is always a very small probability that you might... fall out of love with me.” She sighed heavily and closed her eyes again. “That’s why... I’m doing all my best to prove to you and show you...” She opened her eyes, slowly, making them pierced mine. “That... in whatever way it could be, how many times it might be... I would always choose to fall in love with no one but you...”

I was speechless and could feel my heart beating faster than ever. All I could do was to smile gently at her. And I felt tears reaching my cheeks.

“Why are you telling these things to me... so wholly, sincerely and with so much honesty?” I chuckled as my tears continued to fall down. “You’re my first love...” She smiled at my words. “And I hope... you would be the last...” I buried my face on her chest and she embraced me tighter than ever. As the grass swayed through the soft breeze and the night sky watched over us, our heart beating together. Our arms linked with each other.

And there, we lay for hours, as we kissed underneath the blanket of stars. Holidng each other, as if never letting go of this moment that we wished would never end. And I would be always grateful for Jessi, for having her in my life, for being a par tof my heart. And I know she would always be my first one, my only one and probably my last.