"It was You."

by ddaehee

Chapter Two - Tutor

Jessica swung her bag back and forth as she walked down the university's hallway. She could see several boys turn their heads to her direction as she brushed the blond hair off of her face. She ignored them and sighed at the sight of Taeyeon and Tiffany.

"Yo Jessie!" Tiffany greeted as Jessica opened her locker, "Did you have fun last night?"

Jessica nodded and sighed once more, "It wasn't any different from the other nights we've spent in the club, but it was fun though-- seeing how you and Taeyeon-----"

Taeyeon cupped Jessica's face all of a sudden and shook her lightly. "Shh! You know how trendy eavesdropping can be, especially in a school like this-- and also for someone popular like you.", Taeyeon hissed.

Jessica shook Taeyeon's arm off, and grinned. "Yeah, yeah... I know that. But still, I know what happened between you two so..."

Tiffany beamed at Taeyeon as she fixed her back pack. "Don't get too nervous and flushed up right now, Taengoo, you started it in the first place."

Taeyeon pushed Jessica and Tiffany as they bursted out laughing, "STOP IT! Why are you two like this?"

"Let's just go to class." Jessica said, trying to regain her poise, "You know how grumpy that teacher can be, especially to late comers."

......

Yuri fixed her helmet as she made her way through the growing traffic. She was feeling tired after working late last night, and this made her wake up later than planned. She has to arrive at school before 9:00. If not, she'll be in big trouble, again.

"You're not doing good in class, and you're late most of the time. How do you expect me to feel about this? Huh!? That does it. If you get yourself into trouble again, I will surely---" The teacher paused, and let out a growl. Then, she stomped out of the classroom, leaving a speechless Yuri.

Yuri stepped on her motorcycle's breaks before she could run over a puppy. She cursed to herself and jumped out of the bike, checking if the puppy was okay.

"Poor thing. I'm so sorry!", she said to the puppy, as it wagged its cute little tail. Yuri looked at the puppy's puffy eyes and stood up, "Don't you have anyone to take care of you?" The puppy barked and walked closer to Yuri.

......

"I'm guessing they're out on a date."

"Yeah, I'm thinking the same thing. They don't really care about school anymore."

Jessica sipped her cup of caramel coffee and nodded, "Do you expect Sunny to care about school when she doesn't even care about having a girl as a partner? Jeez."

"What is it with you and girls having relationships with other girls?" Taeyeon snapped, "Sunny's happy with her, so don't say 'jeeeez'."

Tiffany smiled as Taeyeon grumpily ate the piece of cake on her fork, "The question is not really for Jessica, we should ask you that! What is it with you and girls?" she giggled, as Taeyeon choked upon hearing.

"W-what do you mean? What are you saying?" she mumbled, as Tiffany and Jessica laughed at the sight of a bullied Taeyeon.

The cold air that signaled the coming of winter sent chills around the coffee shop, despite the hot coffee being brewed and served. It was lunch break and yet Jessica was feeling sleepy, again. It was a bittersweet thing for her that Taeyeon and Tiffany woke her up for a bit.

"What I'm trying to say is-- (Tiffany giggled louder)-- what I'm trying to say here is that it doesn't really matter if Sunny's in love with a girl. What matters is what they bring out of each other, and how they make each other feel!" Taeyeon finished, as Tiffany's eye-smile grew brighter. Jessica sighed while Tiffany patted Taeyeon, still laughing.

"For me, it's just-- not right." Jessica said, as Tiffany's smile seem to silence Taeyeon. Tiffany grinned at Taeyeon. "Just tell us that you like Tiffany already, okay?" Tiffany continued to giggle.

Taeyeon didn't move, stared at Tiffany with a stern expression for a few seconds, and stood up.

"C'mon... I'm being serious here." She walked out of the table and closed the comfort room door behind her. Jessica didn't take her stare away from the door, and said "Pshh. Our Taeyeon's annoyed, eh?" She shifted her stare at Tiffany. The smile was erased from her face after she saw a serious looking Tiffany.

"Excuse me, Jess." She walked after Taeyeon, leaving Jessica behind.

.

.....

Yuri closed her locker as she cursed under her breath. "This sucks."

A sudden voice from behind made her jump and scream, dropping her books on the ground.

"Hey YURI!" Yoona smiled, as Sooyoung picked Yuri's books up, "Gotcha there didn't I?"

Yuri growled and pushed Yoona lightly. "C'mon Yoona, you should stop doing that!".

Yoona put her arms around Yuri, seeing that she was was obviously annoyed, as Sooyoung read the piece of paper that fell with Yuri's books. "I'm sorry Yuri, forgive me?"

Yuri sighed and patted Yoona, "I'm sorry. I'm just... I'm not in the mood right now. Mrs. Han ruined my morning already."

"She did? Well, Mrs. Han is only one person Yuri. Besides, there are a hundred more things you should be happy about right now, so don't let that one single thing ruin your day." Yoona beamed, letting go of Yuri. Yuri smiled and said, "Thanks Yoona-- you're always--"

"HAHA! A TUTOR!?" Sooyoung bursted out, as Yuri and Yoona glared at her.

Yuri snatched the paper from her, "Yeah! A tutor! Well, it's better than being suspended, right?"

Sooyoung bit her lip to stop from laughing, closing the locker behind her.

"It's the last thing swimmer Kwon needs at this time."

......

Taeyeon, Tiffany and Jessica stood outside Jessica's car as the other students made their way in and out of the university grounds. Jessica looked up at the sky and let out a short yawn, and said

"Darn that."

Taeyeon, who looked as if she was observing every person who passed by, stayed silent since the coffee shop incident. Tiffany was busy texting, in the other hand.

"Hey Taeyeon, I'm sorry about earlier." Jessica whispered, as Taeyeon continued to stare at the people passing by, "I'm just... You know. I'm sorry."

"It's okay." Taeyeon said, not looking at her. She could see Tiffany look at them with that cute pout of hers.

"Girls! Sorry I'm late! It's gonna be my treat tonight so don't be mad!"

The three turned around to see a hyped up Sunny approach them. She looked brighter than usual, and this made the three of them think that she had a wonderful time with her date, again. "It's okay, we're not mad." Tiffany smiled, hugging Sunny back, "We could use a night out you know."

Sunny let go of Tiffany, "Hmm? Did something happen?"

Jessica broke the silent atmosphere between the three of them as she pulled the door open, "NOPE. Nothing happened. Let's go!".

The four of them jumped into the car like any other day, and drove off to club 'Limelight'.

......

"It was You."

by ddaehee

Chapter Three - Club Limelight

Yuri panted as she ran through the hall. The thought of being suspended because of not attending to her tutorial class was nothing to Yuri anymore. She ignored the pain in her chest, the sweat on her forehead, the twirling feeling in her tummy, and the people that shouted after her as she bumped into them. She must be there on time, she must stay alive. "No she can't be... She won't be..." She thought, as she charged faster, ignoring the weakness and pain her body let out.

"She had a mild stroke. She'll be fine. She just needs to stay here for a couple of days." The doctor said, as Yuri held her mom's hand tighter. "She needs to take her medicine properly , I think poor management is the reason behind this."

Yuri sighed and nodded, "Okay. I will keep that in mind." The doctor walked out of the room.

Her mom has always been unhealthy, and for that reason, Yuri had to work for the two of them-- being the healthier person. Her mom doesn't fully approve of this, but Yuri ignored her disapprovement and explained to her that things need to be this way. For Yuri, the best thing that her mom can do in return is to cook good food at home, and to take care of her health.

Yuri stared down at her unconscious mom. She looked very pale and worn out, but still, she was smiling.

"Y-Yuri? Have you eaten?"

Yuri didn't answer, and clenched her hand inside her pocket.

"I'm sorry for causing too much trouble..." Her mom whispered.

Yuri took a deep breath, as a tear escaped her eye.

"Mom, don't be sorry."

She walked out of the room as her mom fell into her sleep.

......

The music grew louder as scent of alcohol intoxicated the club's atmosphere. People danced and drank as if tomorrow didn't exist, as the music took them away from reality. The four girls have been there for hours now.

Taeyeon took another shot as Sunny was cheering out for her. Tiffany stayed silent with Jessica. The two have been staring at the dance floor for minutes now.

"Whatever happened between you guys earlier has surely made Taeyeon a sudden drinking goddess!" Sunny yelled, as the music sank in.

Tiffany grabbed Taeyeon's arm before she could take another shot, "Stop it Taeyeon that's too much already." Taeyeon glanced at her with a blank expression, and let out an ugly burp. Sunny looked at, completely clueless.

"I'm going to the comfort room." Jessica said. The three didn't hear her, so she didn't get an answer. She stood up still, and walked slowly to the comfort room.

She stared at the blond figure in front of her, and blinked several times. She then opened the sink, washed her hands, and took a deep breath. Jessica lightly massaged her face with her wet hands, and pot dried it with her hanky. She glanced at herself for minutes, and finally took time to walk to an available cubicle.

She sat on the covered toilet seat, and closed her eyes. It was silent, and it made her feel good.

......

"I miss you so much."

Jessica woke from her daydreaming, and looked around for the voice.

"I miss you so much, but still I choose to stay away from you. That's just weird, right? I can get to you anytime, I could tell you, I could stand beside your side and love you, protect you, be there for you-- but still, I choose not to and not to be."

Jessica figured that the voice came from the occupied cubicle beside her. She then sat straight.

"Why do you choose to stay away?"

The girl whimpered silently, and let it all out in a forced exhalation.

"I'm sorry, whoever you are." the voice answered, letting out a short laugh.

Jessica giggled. "It's alright. You sound like you need someone to talk to so..."

They were silent for awhile when Jessica broke the silence, "Good for you you have the choice to either stay away or to be there for whoever that person is. For me, I don't have any choice. Distance has separted us for too long and the best thing I could do for him is to wait."

This was the first time Jessica opened up to a stranger. She didn't know why, but she felt like doing so.

"I've had my share of waiting, trust me." The voice said, "And I know you know that it's not easy to wait. It's painful, it's hard and it's... just hard. But still, you wait-- you're willing to wait-- even with the pain it brings. Have you ever wondered why?"

Jessica let out another giggle, "Yeah I know why. Because I know that waiting is not worthless. That my 'waiting' will pay off soon enough, it will pay off for something greater that love-- something... something that's worth waiting for. And while I wait, I'll work on myself for that person-- so that when our time will come, I can be the best for him."

"Where is he?"

"He's away, but we'll see each other soon enough." Jessica answered, as she thought of him.

"He's away... well, good for you." the voice said in a sad tone, "I'm waiting... I've been waiting... for so long-- despite knowing that I'm not going to get anything from it in the end."

"But still you choose to wait." Jessica said, "why do you think so?"

"Because I love this person, and-- even if it hurts to know that I'll never be loved like that in return. I don't care if I don't get anything in return, I will stay true and firm to what I feel. It's all because of love."

This answer touched Jessica's vulnerable side. It made her brittle, it grasped her heart so bad that it almost made her cry. She felt so sad for this person's desperation but somehow very amazed by her love. This stranger impressed her, she wanted to hear from her more, she wanted to know this person.

"I'm sorry for your situation. Why do you choose to stay away?"

The voice didn't answer, instead, she let out a deep breath.

"I'm sorry for asking." Jessica said, standing up.

"It's okay. I'm sorry for bursting out all of a sudden, I'm a bit drunk you see." The voice said, chuckling, "You must be freaked out right now. I'm sorry. Umm, you have a great night, and good luck with you and your love. I'm sure that everything will pay off for the two of you."

"Thank you, and good luck to you too. Hang in there. umm-- can I know your name?" Jessica let out. But before she could open the door of her cubicle, she heard the comfort room's entrance door close.

She was left alone.

......

Chapter Four- Suspension

"Well I betcha! I'll finish this in a minute!"

"Oh yeah!? Did you forget that you said that yesterday and yet you finished it in an hour?"

"Well! W-well-- I wanted to enjoy the meal- that's a good explanation."

Sooyoung and Yoona argued as they ate. The restaurant grew silent, as they were distracted by the two's loud wailing. "It's not eating if it's in a rush. Eating is about patience; it's about enjoying the food's taste and the satisfaction that it brings while it's still in your mouth."

"Okay okay. Why are you challenging me into this in the first place then?" Yoona laughed, as Sooyoung put the scoop full of ice cream into her mouth. Sooyoung ignored her and closed her eyes, enjoying the meal that already took her other senses away.

Seohyun joined them a few minutes later, as the two ordered another round. "Are you two even aware of your health?" she said, after ordering a cup of tea. This is the typical health-conscious Seohyun.

Yoona nodded, "Yeah. We are aware. It's not good for my health if I skip a meal so..."

Seohyun straightened up, and said "Skip a meal? You're over eating! It's not called 'regular eating' anymore, it's more of... of..."

"Do you want some, Seohyun?" Sooyoung cut her off, as she offered her spoon of icecream. Seohyun groaned, and crossed her arms. She knew that this was, again, going no where.

"I wonder how Yuri is doing." Yoona chewed, "She's been sick for days. I do hope that the dean won't suspend her."

......

"Why don't you just tell her? It's been so long- please, just tell her already!"

Taeyeon didn't look at Tiffany.

"Why Taeyeon? Why not?"

"Because I'm scared! I'm scared that she might think that I'm disgusting! Do you think it's easy?"

Tiffany grabbed Taeyeon by the shoulders, and shook her lightly, saying "She's you're friend! She will understand. I know her. She may look serious, cold and arrogant but she has a heart-- a heart that knows how to accept and understand. So please Taeyeon, don't make things harder for yourself- just be brave and tell her already!"

"Taeyeon, I know that it's not easy to tell her that- but you have to."

Taeyeon brushed Tiffany's hands off her shoulders, and turned away. "How would you know?"

She walked away, leaving Tiffany inside the classroom.

Tiffany took a deep breath, and whispered--

"Trust me, I know it's hard."

......

Yuri weakly took several deep breaths. The rain outside made her colder, and it sent shivers down her bones. She rolled over, and put her own arms around her tingling body. She could feel herself sweat, but she didn't wipe them away. She was too weak, and her body was aching more all over.

A sudden slam from behind made her heart jump higher. "YURI!"

Yoona jumped on her, as Seohyun and Sooyoung entered the room. Yuri tried to open her eyes but she couldn't.

"D-did you check on mom?" she said huskily, "I'm sorry."

Sooyoung slapped her, and said "Don't be! Yeah, we already did. She's doing great so don't worry. We told her that you were too busy at school-- so, yeah, she doesn't know that you're here, dying."

"Hey don't say that!" Yoona shouted, jumping off of Yuri. Yuri didn't open her eyes still, breathing faster than usual. She felt the heat from her insides burn her tongue.

"Maybe we should take her to the hospital." Seohyun said, as Yoona nodded in agreement.

"No... please don't... I'll be fine..." Yuri whispered, "I-I just need to rest..."

"Okay! Let's just order some food, I'm starving." Sooyoung smirked as Yoona, again, nodded in agreement. Seohyun couldn't help but sigh.

......

Jessica closed the door behind her as she shook the anger off. She stared at space for a few seconds and realized that she lost a lot of oxygen as she held in some of the anger earlier. She deserved it, she really did-- she thought. She walked to the hallway, with no hesitation-- completely not guilty of what she just did.

........

Chapter Five - Soccer ball

"SUSPENDED!? For a month?! That's unfair! You were sick Yuri!"

"That's what the dean said-- For a month Ms. Kwon! For a month! We gave you a chance, and you blew it. We can't tolerate this-- nothing will change my decision! NOTHING!--" Yuri imitated, as she and Sooyoung paced near the soccer field, "At least I'm not suspended forever."

"But what about the swimming tournament?! Yuri, he knows that you're the best in this university!" Sooyoung screeched, catching the attention of some people passing by, "YURI... you have to--"

"Sooyoung calm down. Since the dean really wants us to win- AND yes, he knows that I'm the best-- I can still participate in the swimming club's activities." She bragged. "My coach managed to pull it off. I know you're only worried about the swimming team 'cause they give off free food in the tournament."

Sooyoung smiled widely. "But still, you don't deserve that Yuri. You're mom was hospitalized, and you were sick-- can't they consider that?"

Yuri opened her can of juice as they sat on a bleacher, and took a sip of it as the football team did warm ups.

......

"You can kick balls my friend."

"I know right?"

Jessica tackled the ball and kicked it to the goal as she heard some of the men watching cheer for her. She was used to them being like that, and she didn't mind them at all. Hyoyeon patted Jessica at the back, and danced randomly as the their other teamates huddled in.

"Okay-- tournament's in a week so we need to practice double the effort. Triple the effort actually." Captain Hyoyeon shouted, "OKAY! LET'S-- GET--- THIS--- ON!"

The team played around as Sooyoung and Yuri watched them. Yuri wasn't really paying attention. Instead, she was deeply thinking of her suspension, her mom-- and the night she was drunk.

......

Jessica wasn't concentrating on the game. She just moved the ball along with herself. She continued. She ran faster. She thought of the sobbing girl at Limelight club. How she cried so hard-- how they were simply attached to one another through that conversation. She wasn't the type who'd talk to strangers-- but that night, she felt great during and after talking to one-- for a reason she didn't even know. She didn't feel like a stranger at all.

She kicked the ball with full force that she felt the air brush by her free leg. The loud thump of the ball echoed throughout the field. She panted. She breathed deeply. Then, she smiled.

......

"You know, I think you should find a boyfriend. Someone opposite. That is, someone RICH - and HEALTHY so you wouldn't be--- YURI!"

Sooyoung shouted as Yuri fell from the bench they were sitting on. The can of juice went flying to the air as Yuri let out a short cry. Sooyoung stood up and looked down at an unconscious Yuri.

"YURI! What ha-- happened?" Sooyoung walked to the soccer ball beside Yuri, picked it up, and looked around at the soccer team.

"HEY! YOU CAN SERIOUSLY KILL SOMEONE!"

The other members of the team, along with Hyoyeon approached her. Jessica, who was not even aware of this, walked after them still. Sooyoung furiously threw the ball to Hyoyeon, "Hey! APOLOGIZE!"

Hyoyeon grunted while placing her hand on her waist.

"Why are you so mad? I didn't do it! She did!", she pointed to Jessica.

Jessica approached them, unaware of what she just did. She looked up at Sooyoung. Their eyes met, as the sky grew dark.

"YOU?!"

Hyoyeon shifted her stare from Jessica to Sooyoung, "You know each other?"

"I don't know her, but Sunny does." Jessica sternly hissed, looking straight at Sooyoung, "It's not my fault that you're friend was sitting there."

"SITTING THERE?! IT'S NOT MY FAULT THAT YOUR EYES SUCK! That's a bench for crying out loud! Does it look like a goal to you?!" Sooyoung stormed, as the atmosphere grew darker. The team, along with Captain Hyoyeon, Sooyoung and Jessica were too occupied with the situation, -- that they didn't notice Yuri anymore.

"SHUT IT or I'll tell Sunny." Jessica shouted back, pushing Sooyoung lightly. Sooyoung let out a sarcastic laugh, and pushed her back.

"Leave her out of this! You want a fight? Huh? C'mon blondie, bring-IT-- ON!!"

The team swiftly stopped the two from clashing as the first rain drop fell from the sky.

......

Yuri opened her eyes. She felt the rain cooled her warm body off as she blinked several times to sharpen her sight. She was trembling all over, and she couldn't stand on her own. She needed help.

......

CHAPTER SIX - STALKER

START OF TOTAL FLASHBACK.

Yuri rode the scooter faster as the skies thundered and grew darker. She needed to deliver all the boxes of milk and soya before it'd rain. She took a fast curve as a rain drop touched her skin. She drove faster---faster--until---

SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEECH!!!

The side of Yuri's scooter scratched against the ground as she roughly rolled her way to the sidewalk. The last thing she felt was the strong and painful jerk against her arm. And then, she was unconscious.

.....

"YURI."

Yuri weakly opened her eyes, and blinked two times. The rain poured stronger, and she couldn't hear any other than the soothing sound of rain drops.

"Yuri! YURI-ahh!"

Yuri took a deep breath, and looked at the figure beside her. She was shaking her to consciousness. The figure leaned forward, "YURI! YURI! YURIIIII!!!"

Yuri gained alertness and panted as she stared at the worried girl.

"I-I..."

"OH YURI!"

She threw her a tight hug. Yuri felt a throbbing pain in her left arm as she squeezed tighter-- but Yuri didn't mind. Her hug, somehow, took the pain away. "Yuri you're so reckless!!"

Yuri managed to sit up. The rain bathed both of them as they didn't let go of each other. "Yuri... please... Don't get yourself into trouble again, okay?"

Yuri nodded. She's done this countless times now, but she keeps on promising that it won't happen again. "How did you find me?" Yuri murmured, struggling to stand up as the girl helped her.

"I was... Well... I was... I was stalking you." The girl answered, as they went inside the car.

.....

FLASHBACK

She took one last gulp from her bottle of water as she watched the black-haired girl walk to one of the gates across the street. Yuri placed a box of milk and quickly ran to her scooter as the house owner thanked her.

She smiled as she saw this girl wave back, with that pretty smile of hers.

They continued to follow Yuri as she seemed to drive faster. She grew worried as she saw her take risky curves.

"Driver, please drive faster-- we can't lose her."

The driver nodded and stepped on it. She took a quick glance at her phone as it vibrated. She was going to open the message from her mom when she heard a loud screeching sound from outside. The next thing she knew-- she was caressing an unconscious Yuri-- trying to shake her off her sleep.

.....

"You were following me the whole time? That's just scary."

"Well, it's scarier to let you drive on your own."

Yuri let out a short cry of pain as the girl tightened the bandage on her arm. She smacked her lightly at the forehead..

"You're so cute when you make that sound." she said.

Yuri tried to smile for her, despite the pain, as she massaged her arm. She looked very beautiful, with that soft skin and long dark brown hair of hers. "You should ride with me then."

"That's two times the trouble then! Will riding with you change your poor driving skills?" she laughed, smacking Yuri on the forehead again.

Yuri smiled, and said "No. But that'll inspire me to learn to be a better driver. I wouldn't want you to get into an accident, wouldn't I?"

They looked at each other for a few seconds that seemed longer than that. Their stares seemed glued to each other, when Yuri shyly broke the awkward atmosphere--

"You're mom will kill you if you go home late... again." she said, finally flouting the silence between them. She was too distracted. The girl sighed, and beamed at her.

"You think I don't know that? I don't mind. At least, you're safe- and that's more important."

Yuri looked down to try to hide her flushed face. She wasn't gonna show this shy side of hers-- it's going to ruin her strong image. The girl stood up and paced around Yuri's room.

"You're lucky your mom's asleep when I took you here."

Yuri didn't pay attention. She was too distracted. She's alone, with her-- in her room-- in pain but still happy that she's here with her-- heart beating faster as she looked straight at her. The girl stopped walking, and looked at her closely. "What's up?"

"Thank you and I'm sorry for causing you trouble again."

The girl beamed at her again, and this melted Yuri's heart. "I'll always be here. So don't say sorry 'cause I know you'll get into trouble again, okay?"

They laughed together as the rain poured stronger.

END OF TOTAL FLASHBACK.

.....

SLAP!

"YURI!"

"Uhh. mm. Mom?"

"MOM?! IT'S SOOYOUNG! DO I LOOK LIKE YOUR MOM TO YOU?!"

Yuri opened her eyes as Sooyoung wiped the blood off her nose. "I thought you were dead! What is this? A flash back? You keep putting yourself into trouble-- don't be reckless!"

Yuri sat up straight and breathed heavily. She was wet all over-- and so was Sooyoung. "Reckless? I got hit, didn't I?"

Sooyoung grunted and pulled her up. "Doesn't matter. Why do you get into trouble a lot anyway? Sheesh."

Yuri was still tipsy from the hard hit of the soccer ball that she couldn't stand on her own anymore. Sooyoung put her arm around Yuri's waist for support. "Let's take you to the clinic."

.....

CHAPTER SEVEN - HIDDEN

"She didn't even say sorry!"

"Well-you know how strong her pride is." Tiffany joked, as they pulled themselves some seats in the coffee shop. "Wait, Jess- did you kick that ball towards the poor girl in purpose?"

"Of course not... Maybe." Jessica answered, mixing her cup of coffee lightly. "I was thinking about some stuff. I was distracted. I thought I was heading for the goal but instead-yeah, I kicked the ball towards her."

"What were you thinking of?" Hyoyeon let out, "I know that you can be a daydreamer-but you don't do that while we play soccer, don't you? So, what's up?"

Jessica exhaled noisily and crossed her legs.

"About the supposed tutorial classes, the comfort room last week, and about him."

Tiffany and Hyoyeon all sat straight as Jessica continued to talk, "He hasn't been sending me letters since last week. I'm just-worried."

"So you weren't day dreaming- you were just preoccupied." Tiffany pointed out.

"Yeah, it's not like him to do that. Anyway, I'm sure he has a good explanation for that." Hyoyeon retorted, "Wait-what? You unintentionally hit a girl because you were too bothered about a comfort room?! And what about your tutorial classes?"

"No silly." Jessica replied, "Last week, when were out at Club Limelight, I indirectly met this girl in the comfort room. I don't really know why but-I'm really bothered by that incident."

Tiffany's eyes widened as Hyoyeon choked on her coffee after Jessica finished her sentence.

"Incident? Why? What did you do with this girl?!"

"Relax. We didn't do anything. We just talked." Jessica calmly said, "I don't really know what made me talk to her that night and I don't know what occurred to me. But I felt really close to her after we talked- I felt we had a connection-- and now I'm really bothered about this girl's identity- how she looks like, what her name is, and where she goes to school."

"You don't really get bothered by those kinda stuff." Tiffany responded, "Wait-how did you talk without even seeing each other?"

"Between cubicles."

"That's just gross." Tiffany said, as Jessica put her elbows on the table, "Well. What about your tutorial classes?"

"My student hasn't been attending for days. That person's really pissing me off. I waited there for hours, for days-and still, he or she hasn't shown himself or herself up. I deserve a good explanation- no, I don't really need an explanation anymore, since I'm not going to tutor that PERSON anymore. I had to tell the dean and he suspended her... or him."

The other two stared at a flaring Jessica. They knew that it was way over board to ask for someone to be suspended, but nobody dared to tell her because even so, she would be firm to her decision.

"Where's Taeyeon?" Jessica uttered, "Don't tell me she's still mad at me."

Tiffany inhaled deeply and let it out slowly. She remembered her last conversation with Taeyeon, how the two of got into an argument concerning her (Taeyeon's) feelings, and how disturbed Taeyeon was. She remembered how troubled Taeyeon looked, how confused and afraid she was-she just wanted to help her but she couldn't.

With her arrogant and cold personality, it's double the times harder for Taeyeon to tell to this special person that she likes and liked her from the start. It's very difficult because this special person didn't swing the same way as Taeyeon did- and according to Taeyeon, she didn't want to put their friendship to risk just for the sake of how or what she feels- at least, that's what she is forced to bear with.

For Tiffany, it's harder to watch and witness Taeyeon's heart constantly break with every day that they spent with Jessica. It's really hard to hide your feelings from someone throughout the years, and it's even harder to let them know. For this, Tiffany feels useless. As much as she wanted to extend her help to Taeyeon, she didn't really know how to and if she helped her in the first place at all.

BUT.

But aside from feeling useless, Tiffany is also very hurt. Her heart also constantly breaks as time passed them by. She also has to bear with it, and for her, it's even worse. BUT WHY?

Taeyeon and Tiffany were neighbors when they were little. They would walk to school together, go home from school together, and would play with each other at their free time. As time passed, the two became very close and soon enough, they became the best of friends.

After high school, they chose to live with each in a dorm. Being the clumsy and childish Tiffany, Taeyeon was always in contrast with her. She would take care of Tiffany, and in turn, Tiffany would take care of her-in her own little way. Taeyeon was always there to be leaned onto when Tiffany felt like breaking down- she would be her strength, and Tiffany, in turn, would always make her smile.

In short, the two have always there for each for quite a long time now. They filled out each other's weaknesses, and the double each other's strengths. For Tiffany, this is just a portion of what she truly has with Taeyeon.

She is hurt not only because Taeyeon seemed to slowly drift away- but also because of ONE special reason...

At first, she denied it because she knew that it wasn't going to get anywhere-and that at some point, it was wrong. But as time passed, she couldn't deny it anymore-she couldn't run away from it any more-she has to be honest with herself. She knew deep in herself that Taeyeon is worth it. She knew that she felt different towards her- she knew that she wanted her to be with her, and in turn, she will be there for her by all means. It what they bring out from each other that touched Tiffany the most- and this made her realize that...

She loves Taeyeon and she will stay firm to that no matter what. Even when it hurts, even when it's difficult to hide it (and she believes she has hidden it from her successfully), even when Taeyeon likes and maybe, already loves, Jessica...

She will love her NO MATTER WHAT.

"Are you mad at me too?"

Tiffany pulled back to her senses and noticed that her coffee was getting cold. Jessica fixed her eyes with Tiffany's and this, somehow, made Tiffany nervous.

"No, I'm not." She said, "AND, I know, Taeyeon's not mad as well. Just ignore her Jess, she tends to show that she's very sensitive."

Jessica smiled and patted Tiffany. "Your really know her, eh?"

Tiffany just smiled back. But deep inside, it was the exact opposite.

......

Taeyeon stared at the picture. She's been staring at it for minutes now but she didn't get tired of it. The picture in front of her always took the worries and sadness away. It took her away from reality, and took her back to the old days for one bit. Suddenly, everything was much easier.

She held the picture and smiled at the two children in it. The sun shined so bright that day, but the rain poured as well. The two kids were wet and messed up but the two children seemed to be happy with that. The smiles across their faces were epic- and Taeyeon wished that their smiles would still be and feel the same way as before.

She wished that they could bring back the old them- that they could be with each other, with no worries and no care in the world at all-just like before. Just the two of them, hand in hand, having fun like little kids, being there with and for each other, and loving each other-just like before and even more.

Taeyeon put the picture back on the table top and walked to the kitchen. She had to cook dinner for them, again, but she didn't mind. Besides, she's used to loving that. Taeyeon wished that this night would be no different, despite the little fight that they had earlier.

She beamed at herself as she continued to dream about their younger days... and how everything started for the two of them.

.....

Chapter Eight -

THE PARK AND MR. HAMSTER

"AAAHHH!!"

"I may be sick but it doesn't mean that you can get away with this!"

"AAAAAAHHH!!"

Yuri screamed louder as her mom pinched and pulled her around by the ear. She just came home from the hospital to find the house untidy and dirty.

Yuri couldn't clean the house because of her busy schedule. At morning to late in the afternoon, she had to work at the coffee shop. And late in the afternoon to early in the evening, she had to practice with the university's swimming team. After practice, she would attend to her other job.

Of course, Yuri didn't tell her mom about all of the above.

"What were you up to the whole time I was gone?"

"Stuff. I was practicing for the swimming tournament." Yuri explained, "The house was clean the whole time you were gone except for this day." She lied. Her mom glued her stare at her and pinched her again. "You've been drinking, were you? You've been at night clubs with guys, am I correct? Huh!?"

This made Yuri laugh. She wasn't really scared of her mom. She was usually like this, so physical towards her but deeply warm inside. Her closeness to her mom also adds up to the motivation of wanting to earn a better life for the two of them.

"I don't do that mom! Hehe!" Yuri laughed as her mom tickled her, "Why would I?"

"Yeah right. Well, I'm going to cook us dinner now." Her mom finished, walking to the kitchen. Yuri's eyes followed her mom as she walked.

"Why would I?" Yuri thought, "Sorry mom, I didn't mean to."

Yuri recalled the night she was drunk, and the words she let out that night. She meant those words, but didn't mean to express them in that manner.

Yuri shook the thoughts away and walked to the kitchen to help her mom.

......

"Jessica told me about the fight you had."

"Fight? Which one? We always fight."

Sooyoung pulled little Sunny through the crowd and crossed the road to the park. It was a weekend and the park was always filled with a lot of people during this time of the week. The park looked as fun as usual: with the trees of autumn, the children and couples who biked around the area, the food being put up for sale, the wonderful fountain and the faint light from the sunset. The beautiful street lights around the park would soon overcome the darkness that will come- and everything will be as wonderful as before.

"About Jessica hitting your friend."

Sooyoung patted Sunny and pulled her in for a tight hug as the wind brushed them by. Sooyoung could feel Sunny breathing, and in turn, Sunny could feel Sooyoung's fast heartbeat.

"I was only defending Yuri." Sooyoung gently uttered, "She didn't even apologize. She didn't even help us put her into a clinic-Sunny, her nose was bleeding so badly."

Sunny tightened her hug, "I know, Hyoyeon told me. You know how Jessica goes, right? So please do understand her."

Sooyoung snorted and massaged Sunny's back as they continued to enjoy each other's embrace. "Never mind. It's between me and her anyways. It has nothing to do with you and me. Please, let's just enjoy this date, okay?"

Sunny nodded and pushed herself deeper into Sooyoung's cuddle. The two were silent for a long time, until a sudden noise interrupted--.

GROOOOOWWWWLL...

Sunny heard Sooyoung's stomach rumble. Obviously the food queen was hungry upon smelling the delicious aroma of the food being cooked around them. Sunny giggled as Sooyoung jokingly shook her around.

The two have always been this sweet and romantic towards each other.

"So-- her name is Yuri?"

"Yes. Yuri Kwon."

"You mean-- THE YURI KWON? The swimming goddess?" Sunny emphasized, as they payed the food seller, "I didn't notice you being friends with her."

Sooyoung beamed at Sunny's cute reaction, "Because you're too focused on me, silly. I'm all you see."

Sunny softly smacked Sooyoung's arm, "Silly! Well, maybe so."

The two of them laughed as the skies grew from orange to blue.

......

Jessica opened her eyes. It was getting dark. Her back ached because of lying down for too long. She could hear the children laugh and the people talk in excitement as they passed her by. She's been sleeping under the tree for hours now, and none of them seem to have noticed her.

She stood up, pulled her shoulder bag into place, and brushed a couple of leaves off of her shirt. She was still feeling drowsy, but she had to get out of their before the police would come to think that she's drunk or something.

She walked to the park's main area as she pulled her jacket's hood for cover, and took time to glance around and appreciate the surroundings. The lights always amazed Jessica for them seemed to take her away from her own melancholic self for a while.

"Hey! Hey!"

Jessica looked down to see a little boy pull her jacket. "Hey! Down here!"

Jessica raised her eyebrows, and knelt to get a better view of the boy's face. "Hey aunt! Please buy me some balloons."

Jessica looked at the little boy sternly, "Why should I?"

"Because I want you too."

"You talk well for a little guy." Jessica said, standing up. "Make me."

The little boy looked at Jessica with a cute expression across his face. He then pouted and looked as if he was going to cry, "I'm lost aunt and I just want to have something to play with."

Jessica sighed and pulled the little guy along with her. She looked around for mascot. They were a lot of them; around the fountain, along the benches, and with the children playing. Jessica wasn't really interested and these mascots somehow annoyed her.

One of the many mascots caught her attention. It wore a hamster costume and was balancing itself along benches. The children laughed as it jumped off and wiggled its head.

Jessica walked to the mascot and pulled it from them. The children couldn't help but stare as the hamster left them. Jessica wasn't really comfortable around children, so she had to pull the mascot to the little boy.

"Play with him."

The hamster looked from her, to the little guy. It handed him a balloon and this made him smile. The hamster patted the boy, and stood up to face Jessica. It pointed to its T-shirt, as a form of introducing itself.

"Mr. Hamster." Jessica read, "That's a unique name."

The hamster nodded and extended his palm towards Jessica. Jessica looked from Mr. Hamster's hand, to Mr. Hamster's face. "What do you want? I ain't playing with you, silly."

Mr. Hamster giggled silently by covering his mouth and shaking his head. Jessica grumpily turned away, "Take the boy to the police station, okay?"

Mr. Hamster poked Jessica before she could walk away. Again, he extended his hand to her. Jessica was really irritated now.

"What do you want?" she coldly said. Mr. Hamster pointed to the other balloons he was holding, to the little boy's balloon, and extended his hand again. The hamster was merely asking for a payment for the balloon. Jessica laughed, "That's all you want? Here."

She opened her wallet, handed the hamster some (actually too much) cash, and swiftly walked away from Mr. Hamster, leaving him with the little boy.

......

Mr. Hamster sighed, and pulled the boy closer. Before he could start walking back to the kids, he stepped onto something that looked like a bracelet. No, it was a necklace. He picked it up (well, he managed to despite the costume) and looked at it closer. The silver necklace had a purple colored heart hanging on it, with an initial 'S' dangling along with it.

The mascot quickly looked around for Jessica. It was hard to find her since Mr. Hamster didn't really see her face clearly. But he had to return the necklace; he had to find her.

But, she is no where at sight.

.....

"It was You."

by ddaehee

Chapter Nine -

JUNHO

Yuri leaned on the table to rest her head on her arms. She was felt more tired than usual, and she really wanted to sleep. The manager stared at her for a few minutes. Mr. Choi was always caring and considerate when it comes to Yuri. He understands and knows Yuri's situation: working for her mom and herself. She really admired Yuri's hard-working and determined personality.

"Yuri, are you alright?"

Yuri looked up at Mr. Choi, and quickly stood up. "I'm sorry Mr. Choi, I was-- I was..."

"It's okay Yuri, I understand. What's up?"

Yuri breathed deeply and sat down, as Mr. Choi pulled a chair for himself. "I had to stay up late last night."

"You should take the day off then-- because--"

Yuri stood up, grabbed her apron and shook her head. "No Mr. Choi, I need to work today. Thank you so much for your offer but I can really do this. I'm fine, sir, so please don't mind me."

Yuri bowed and walked to one of the customers to attend to his order. Mr. Choi sighed and resumed to his paper work. Yuri was always like this-- industrious but careless of her health.

The coffee shop's door opened and a strict looking business woman walked in. Mr. Choi set aside his paper work and approached the woman.

"Good morning, Mrs. Jung!" he cheerfully greeted. Yuri looked at the woman, and before she knew it, the two of them were staring at each other. Mrs. Jung didn't look away but instead, continued to glare at Yuri. She raised her eyebrows, as Yuri bowed and looked away. Mrs. Jung has always been like this to her: stern, cold, and grumpy.

......

Jessica opened the envelope excitingly and jumped onto her bed, raising the letter so she could read it. It's been a week since she last received a letter from Junho.

She continued reading the letter and with every word she read her heart pumped faster. Junho never failed to touch Jessica's heart and it constantly did.

Jessica and Junho have been exchanging letters before Jessica went into college. They've been sending letters for quite a while now, and this has proven their undying love for each other- that continues to bloom more each day, despite PHYSICALLY being away from each other. His sweet words always caught Jessica's heart, and much more- his love melted the coldness away from her.

"...Remember that I'll always be here. Near or far, no matter how long it may take, whatever happens- let's promise to keep our love strong and invincible. Everything else doesn't matter, all that matters is our love, right? Nothing will go wrong, we'll always be happy-- as long as its love.

I'm dramatic am I? Keke~ I've been reading lately.

Don't be sad, okay? Keep smiling.

Love,

Junho

...."

Jessica finished reading the letter and pressed it against her heart. How she wished for them to be physically near each other. She prayed so hard for the two of them to see each other soon enough.

Junho was Jessica's childhood friend. The two were basically the best of friends from the start. They met when Jessica was about to drown in a swimming pool-- when Junho came and pulled little Jessica from the waters, along with his yellow rubber boat. Jessica owed her life to him. After that significant moment, the two became closer-- and soon enough, they found themselves falling for each other.

According to Jessica's parents, Junho had to go to the States for his college education. Jessica didn't really care where he is or what he's doing there, the important thing for her is that they keep in touch- by sending letters.

Jessica regreted the times that he pushed Junho away, when they were still with each other. She didn't know why, but she seemed scared and confused at that time. She ran away from him, she drove him away-- she did everything to PUSH JUNHO AWAY. She hated herself for doing this to him, because for her, he deserved the exact opposite.

Jessica was only able polish her feelings and thoughts when it was already too late.

She walked to her book shelf and pulled out a purple colored scrapbook, decored with flower and cloud stickers. This is their masterpiece, their flashback, their only album together.

She opened it, and smiled as she felt the warmth that it brought. Suddenly she felt Junho beside her, and eveything else was well. She smiled wider, and breathed deeply as she read:

"First chapter... The Yellow Rubber Boat..."

......

"Yuri, you really need a boyfriend 'ya know." Sooyoung huffed as she engagingly chewed to food into pieces.

"A sugar daddy."

Yoona laughed with Sooyoung as they continued chewing. Seohyun ignored them, as she continued writing her homework. Yuri, in the other hand, looked at them sternly without talking. She was deeply engrossed with the word, 'boyfriend'.

"No seriously Yuri you need one. I mean, you're hot- you're hard-working, you're somewhat... nice. What else would someone ask from you? 'cept for money, though." Yoona said, as Sooyoung chuckled. Yuri raised her eyebrows, and exhaled forcefully as if annoyed.

"I'm taken."

Sooyoung and Yoona stopped laughing and eating, even Seohyun looked up at the three after Yuri spoke. "Taken?" The three said in chorus. Yuri smiled and nodded, "Yeah, I'm taken."

"By who? Since when?!" Sooyoung excitingly yelled, "Why didn't you tell us!? Yoona, cancel the blind dates that we planned, the hell."

"Since I was little." Yuri said, smiling. Yoona looked at her as she did, "You're smile is just scary Yuri."

Seohyun closed her text book and sat straight, "Who is this person Yuri?"

Yuri didn't answer who, but instead she repeated, "I'm taken. That's it."

The other three stared at her for a couple of seconds, and resumed to their lunch. They respected and understood this serious side of Yuri, and they didn't want to push her through.

Yuri dreamingly looked at Yoona's soup; the vegetables seem to swim away from Yoona's spoon. They looked as if they were screaming for rescue. Yuri's heart ached as she recalled something, but at the same time it made her smile.

......

"I have to stay later than usual." Jessica said as Tiffany and Taeyeon stepped into the vehicle. It was late in the afternoon and the sky was turning darker. The leaves brushed by school grounds of the university as people left.

"Why? I thought you didn't have tutorial classes anymore?" Taeyeon said from the car's window, "It's not safe to stay late. Besides, I think it's going to rain so might as well set that appointment some other time."

Tiffany nodded in agreement. Jessica waved them goodbye, ignoring their suggestion, and walked into one of the school buildings.

"Well. At least we tried." Taeyeon said, "Let's eat dinner outside, shall we?"

Tiffany beamed at Taeyeon, "American food?"

Taeyeon sighed, and stepped on the accelerator. "Fine."

"Yaay!" she chanted, throwing Taeyeon a hug.

......

Jessica walked into the hallway, which was half empty at the moment. She turned to enter the school's swimming pool area and sat on one of the benches near it. The swimming team was still there, and it somehow made her feel secured. It was indeed getting late, and it's not safe to be alone at that time.

She looked at the swimming pool, and remembered Junho once more. She recalled their dramatic meeting; how she owed him her life after he saved her from drowning- despite being little at that time.

"If I would jump into the pool tonight, would you be here?" Jessica asked, as she walked towards the pool.

She leaned forward to take a closer look, and breathed deeply as she saw how deep it was. She didn't know how to swim-- maybe because she wants to be saved by him.

Suddenly, she felt her head throb. And from throbbing, it ached. And from too much aching, her vision was blurred-- her arms, legs and head numb because of the screeching pain. She closed her eyes, and screamed as it ached more.

She tried to stand straight, but it was too much that it made her slouch instead. She was going to faint anytime, she couldn't feel her legs anymore- she felt cold all over.

Suddenly, everything was black. She couldn't breathe, and she could feel herself sink furiously. She couldn't hear anything but the whispers of the waters and her own heartbeat's call for rescue.

She needed help.

......

Yuri closed her eyes as she felt the tiny sprinkles of water warm her body up. She felt relaxed as it soothed the stress out of her. She massaged her arms and looked up, gently brushing her long black hair back. She took a deep breath.

She kicked the other thoughts away and took time to listen to the mere noise of the shower, and her heartbeat. With that, she was calmed.

After a few minutes Yuri closed the shower and proceeded to the room to change clothes. She swayed her bag over her shoulder and fixed her shirt as she turned off the locker room's light, walking back to the swimming pool area.

Then, she turned the lights off as well, leaving only the lights of the swimming pool itself.

She walked to the area's door and grabbed the door's handle- but then...

Her heartbeat went faster. Her breathing pattern grew more rapidly. She felt something- something unexplainable yet so strong...

Out of the blue, without hesitation, she ran to the swimming pool. She stopped and looked down on the figure that was floating about.

Blonde hair, fair skin-the person seemed lifeless.

Yuri took her shirt off, threw her bag and dived into the water. She swam towards the person as fast as she could. Her lungs were tired, but she didn't care. She swam faster-faster until she reached the person.

She pulled her with all her might. She was physically weak but inside she was strong. She had to be strong. She must bring her back.

She has to save her.

.....

Chapter Ten - The Rain

They were very wet- very wet from the tears that strongly fell from the clouds. And if the heavens have been crying, the two high school kids are laughing instead, as they played around under the rain.

The two of them laughed harder as the kicked the grass and jumped into a puddle of water as they continue to play. They were going to graduate from high school soon, and they wanted to spend their last moments as high school girls in this way- simply like children who experienced the rainy season for the first time, with no worries and no care in the world in mind.

They grew tired as the garden appeared foggy along with the rain. One of them panted and pulled the other one to her embrace, as she covered her with her hands. She leaned forward while the other one just looked at her. The tip of their noses met, and with that, they laughed harder as they gazed into each other's eyes.

After this they held each other's hands and ran across the garden to the tree house, where the two of them always played and hung out along the years.

The other one looked at her as she closed the door. They sat next to each other as the rain clashed against the roof grew louder. But still, the pumping of their hearts seemed louder than that.

They were silent.

After listening to the mere sound of rain drops and the beating of their hearts, the other was finally moved.

She leaned forward, she leaned closer. They were wet all over, but she didn't care. The other girl, who was inclining against her, slipped and laid on the sofa. Before she knew it, the other girl was already on top of her, their faces only inches apart.

"Y-Yuri..."

The girl cupped her mouth, looked deeply into her eyes, and softly whispered as she slanted closer...

"I love you."

......

Yuri crossed her legs as she broke from her daydream. She has been staring at the clinic's window for an hour now, and she couldn't help but reminisce.

"It's my fault." She whispered under her breath.

......

Jessica weakly opened her eyes and inhaled deeply as she heard the rain drops from outside. She examined her surroundings and later realized that she was in the school's clinic.

Her chest was slightly heavy and painful at the same time, and her back ached. She tried to stand up, but she couldn't.

"Ms. Jung."

She turned her head to the nurse as she saw her smile down at her.

"It's good to have you back. You almost drowned there."

Jessica recalled her traumatising head ache back at the swimming pool. She recalled falling down and sinking beneath the pool. But, who would save her?

"Ms. Jung if you want, I should call your parents."

"No. Please, don't. I can take care of myself."

"But Ms. Jung, you're still weak from the fall and--"

"I can manage."

"But--"

"I'll take her." A voice interrupted.

Jessica shifted her stare towards the voice and saw a tan girl with long black silky hair leaning against the doorway. "I'll take her, Ms. Khun, don't worry."

Jessica looked at the person. She didn't know her, but why was she going to take her? She wouldn't let her do that, besides, she doesn't hang out with strangers.

"Who is this?" Jessica forcefully yelled. Her head was still aching and this had its effect on her mood. "I can take care of myself, excuse me."

"That's Kwon Yuri, Ms. Jung. And she--"

"I don't care. I'm going home and I can do it myself... without her help." She snapped, pointing at Yuri. Yuri heaved a sigh and crossed her arms. "Unnie, you don't have to force yourself..."

Jessica stood up with all her might and snatched her bag from the tableside. She bowed at the nurse, passed by Yuri, and opened the door to the clinic- banging the door behind her.

......

Yuri closed the main entrance's door, opened her umbrella, and walked towards the university's gate. It was scary inside the school, since it was already around eight in the evening. She had to go for her other job, but this 'Ms. Jung' took a lot of her time. The rain was heavier now, and she held onto her umbrella tighter.

She strolled towards the gate's exit, waved at the security guard, and turned towards the bus stop. She stopped at her pace as she saw a blonde girl desperately shade herself from the rain. Yuri let out a short chuckle and walked towards her.

Without indecision, she shaded Ms. Jung with her umbrella, as she felt a couple of rain drops hit her head. Jessica surprisingly turned and looked at her.

"W-What's this?"

"You just drowned, and now you can't afford to get yourself sick." Yuri smiled, continuing to shade her with her umbrella. Jessica just stared at her, and groaned. But deep inside she was touched by this person. Warm and caring people always caught her attention.

......

They waited for a bus to stop but there weren't any buses yet. It's been thirty minutes, but the road was still dark and empty. Jessica had a long way home, and she felt really tired and hungry. She felt her tummy growl and wished that this girl didn't hear.

"Unnie, I think we should eat." Yuri smirked, "I'm really hungry, aren't you hungry too?"

Jessica nodded. She didn't know why, but this stranger didn't feel like a stranger at all. In fact, she felt like she already met her somewhere.

"Okay." She replied, coldly.

"Umm. Unnie, may I ask for you name?" Yuri timidly let out, as they walked. Jessica was hesitant, but still she answered.

"It's Jessica. Don't call me 'unnie', I don't like it."

"Okay Jessica. Mine's Yuri." Yuri smirked, "And by the way, I heard your tummy grumble at the first place so I decided on asking you for dinner tonight."

Jessica blushed and unintentionally smacked Yuri. Yuri laughed as Jessica's face grew redder.

"Don't be shy; my tummy has a mind of its own too." Yuri said, massaging her cheek.

Jessica smiled and looked down. This person was a lot nicer than she thought. And not only that, this person also tickled her interests.

......

Yuri looked at Jessica. Her heart pounded faster as she saw how fair her skin was, how beautiful she appeared, and how cute her expression was. She never really noticed earlier, since she was too occupied. Next thing she knew, she's so into this girl.

But another thing that caught her attention was this girl's familiar face. She didn't understand why, but she felt a lot closer to this person- in spite of meeting her for the first time, tonight. She didn't know why, but she felt that she had a connection with this person, and Jessica felt the same way.

She shook the thoughts away, and continued talking to Jessica as they paced towards the eatery through the cold rainy night.

.....

Chapter Eleven - One night

The cold rainy night turned two hearts into warm ones as two strangers accompanied each other home. Yuri and Jessica just finished dinner, and they didn't notice that they've took the wrong way home because they were too occupied from talking to each other.

Yuri continued to cover Jessica from the rain, making herself wet. Jessica didn't notice at first, because it was dark most of the time.

"I-I'm sorry but you were doing that the whole time were you?" Jessica stuttered as she saw a wet Yuri. Yuri smiled and shook her head.

"It's okay- I-I'll be fine..."

Jessica looked at her for a few seconds and pulled her towards her. "Let's share then..."

Everything was suddenly awkward. Yuri semi-embraced Jessica as she held the umbrella over the both of them.

"So umm... Thanks for... for saving me there." Jessica said, not looking at Yuri. She felt Yuri nod.

"No problem. Don't dive into the pool if you don't know how to swim in the first place."

Jessica snorted, "I didn't dive... I slipped."

"Okay so don't slip." Yuri pointed out, smiling. "I admit you're thin but... You're a lot heavier than you look."

Jessica smacked her. She silently laughed. Yuri seem to make her smile and laugh, despite her cold self. She didn't know why, but Yuri's aura was different-- it wasn't like a stranger's... instead, it was a friend's.

This was basically why a lot of people admired Yuri for her friendly personality... not only was she sweet and friendly at first, she also has a good sense of humor that caught many people's interest.

......

After an hour of circling around the park, they finally got tired and took the RIGHT way home.

"It was nice knowing you!" Yuri called after Jessica, as she walked towards the condominium. Jessica looked back and nodded. She stared at the semi-wet tan girl, and reminded herself that this girl did not only save her, but she also made her night. Before she knew it, she replied with words that she didn't usually say to newly made friends:

"I'll see you at school!"

Yuri hesitated, and blurted out "You'll only see me at our swimming practice. I'm kinda suspended, hehe!"

Jessica turned to her, "Why?"

"Long story. I was sick." Yuri laughed, "It doesn't matter. Well, I'll see you then?"

Jessica nodded once more, and smiled.

"Thank you, Yuri."

......

That night wasn't like the other nights that Jessica spent. It was totally different. At evenings Jessica would usually feel lonely and melancholic. She would feel alone despite having lots of friends-- maybe because she felt that no one could understand her, like Junho did.

Junho was the only person who made her heart skip a beat. Junho always made her smile and laugh just with his letters. With his letters and sweet words, he was the only person who have ever melted the ice off of Jessica-- he was the only one who caught her interest, who touched her heart.

... But now, there's Yuri. Yuri was warm, funny, friendly, caring and sweet to Jessica. These qualities turned Jessica on, and furthermore, these qualities caught her heart's attention- and touched it as well.

It's not common for Jessica to feel this way. It's not that she likes Yuri, it just pushed her curiosity towards Yuri higher. She wants to know her more, she wants to hang out with her more-- she wants to be friends with her.

Jessica smiled as she recalled their dinner together and their walk home. She recalled how sweet Yuri was to shade her with her umbrella, how sociable and friendly Yuri was despite her coldness towards her, and lastly how caring and brave Yuri was when she saved her from drowning.

Over all, Yuri made this night incredible for Jessica.

ALL IN ONE NIGHT, Yuri has made her feel this way.

......

Yuri finally succeeded in sneaking through the window. She heard her mom snore, and this signaled that it was safe to do so.

She walked to her bed and jumped onto it. She was too tired, but deep inside a sparkle of happiness shone.

Meeting Jessica Jung was great for her. Apart from being undeniably beautiful and hot, her cold personality really challenged Yuri. She reminded her of someone, and made her want to know her more.

Yuri doesn't want to see people being sad and lonely. Jessica looked cold, silent, and somehow sad for her-- and Yuri really wants to make somehow make her smile, laugh and maybe, appreciate how great life truly is. She wants to cheer her up, to again, make her smile because for her, Jessica really looked prettier when she flashed a smile.

Yuri is into Jessica. She wants to know her more, she wants to make her days brighter for some reason that she doesn't understand-- she wants to be her friend.

But the thing that caught her attention the most was Jessica's familiarity towards her. She didn't only look familiar, but she sounded and felt familiar as well. Yuri ignored these feelings, and covered herself with the thick blanket.

She beamed again, and pondered on how Jessica made her night..

ALL IN ONE NIGHT, Jessica has made her feel this way.

......

All in one night, the two of them have made a big impact on each other... and all thanks to this night.

Jessica and Yuri didn't know that this night would not only mark the blooming of a special relationship with each other, but also the twists, pain, truths and drama that will soon come there way.

Chapter Twelve - Winter Air (Part 1)

"You better run... run... run... run... run..."

"RUN!"

"Yeah! Yo."

They sang as they drove the care through the snowy air brushing against them. They took a curve and finally saw the billboard of the mountain resort.

"Yay! We're here!" Sooyoung cheered, "I want to eat."

"Me too!" Yoona let out as she massaged her stomach. Seohyun groaned. "But you just ate."

"That's the point! It makes us crave for more." Sooyoung replied. Yoona nodded in agreement.

"Guys! We're here!" Yuri shouted from the driver seat. Yoona, Seohyun and Sooyoung grabbed their bags and went out of the car. Yuri sighed and smiled as she remembered Jessica.

......

"It's so cold."

"Of course, do you expect the snow to be hot?"

Taeyeon handed them out some hot chocolate as they sat around the lobby's fireplace. Jessica rubbed her hands together. They could see Sunny march back in forth near the lobby's entrance.

"I think Sooyoung we'll be coming." Tiffany smiled, "if that's the case then it'll be a lot more fun."

"Fun? I think it's going to be the opposite when she's here." Jessica snapped coldly, "That giant's a mess."

"Guys I can't get to the manager." Tiffany said as she approached them, "And I can't get our room either."

"Why?" Taeyeon walked towards her. Jessica continued staring at the fire as they talked, and smiled as she remembered how warm Kwon Yuri was when they first met.

......

"We called yesterday!"

"But you're not listed--"

"That's not even an excuse! Where's the manager?" Tiffany stormed. Taeyeon massaged her back to calm her down.

"I'm the manager."

Taeyeon and Tiffany turned to look at an eating Yoona. Sooyoung stood close by. "What's the problem miss?"

"Oh. It's you." Tiffany looked in amazement, "You're a manager?"

"I guess so." Yoona grinned, "My dad owns the place."

......

"Thanks Yoona." Sunny said as Sooyoung hugged her tightly. Yoona waved her hand as a sign of saying you're welcome. Hyoyeon, Tiffany, and Taeyeon sat around the table with them. "Who you with?"

"Seohyun... Yuri." Sooyoung said, shaking Sunny lightly side by side. Hyoyeon, Tiffany and Taeyeon sat straight upon hearing. "Yuri?"

"Yeah. Why?"

"Jessica's been talking about her."

Sooyoung laughed with the reply. Yoona choked.

"They've been hanging out lately." Tiffany pouted, " Since the... the swimming pool... thingy?"

"Yeah, Yuri told me." Sooyoung let out, still shaking Sunny, "They've been close since then."

"It's kinda weird for Jessica to be that close to someone new." Taeyeon said after sipping her cup of chocolate, "She's usually all anti-social to anyone else."

"Hah! Yuri's has a sweet tongue, that's why." Yoona giggled.

"Uhh. Sweet tongue?" Sunny said, looking puzzled.

"No! Not that sweet tongue... I meant, she's a sweet talker." Yoona cackled, "And she's pretty too. And she's hot."

Sooyoung high-fived with Yoona as they both laughed. The other girls remained silent.

"Well, Jessica's not into girls." Taeyeon snapped, "So her hotness and her beauty doesn't really count."

Tiffany looked at Taeyeon, who seemed Jealous. She nudged her with the elbow and flashed her the eye-smile of hers. Taeyeon slightly smiled.

......

"I'll be back Seohyun, do you need anything?"

"No unnie, I'll be fine."

Yuri closed the door and walked down the stairs to the lobby. She fixed her jacket and wore her gloves for warmth. It was indeed very cold.

She opened the door to the public balcony where the view was spectacular. She could see the mountains and the trees that are covered with snow. From a far she could also gaze at the city despite the thick fog. Yuri breathed deeply and walked to one of the vacant benches near the rails. But before she could sit down, a blonde figure caught her attention. She was seated to the bench next to hers, and was taking some pictures of the view. Yuri smiled as she figured that it was Jessica.

......

"Junho would've loved this." Jessica whispered under her breath.

A sudden poke surpised her. She looked up and saw Yuri who was about to sit next to her. "You're here too?"

"It's obvious." Jessica coldly replied. Yuri smiled and patted Jessica. "Well I guess we'll be spending more time now, eh?"

Jessica groaned, as she continued to smile inside. Spending time with Yuri was lot better than spending it out at night clubs, partying, drinking, dancing, socializing with hot guys who didn't mean anything to her, gossiping, or any of those stuff that she usually did with Taeyeon and the others. When she's with Yuri, she's suddenly happier.

"Y-Yuri... Did you ever have a... a- special someone?"

Yuri was taken a back with the question. "Why'd you ask?"

"Nothing, I just want to know."

"Of course."

Jessica smiled at her and leaned forward as a sign of anticipating to hear more for her.

"Well... Yeah that person still is and will always be special." Yuri grinned, but for Jessica, she looked sad in a way. "What about you then? Do you have someone?"

"Yeah I do."

"And--?"

"Well. That's it. I miss him."

Yuri paused at the word him. "Oh, where is he then?"

"He's away."

He's away...? Yuri recalled someone saying the same thing. She recalled how emotional that person was when they talked, how they connected in that night, how-- how she sounded like Jessica!

Yuri ignored those thoughts and continued listening to Jessica.

"But... But I'll wait for him... because I know that it's worth waiting for."

Yuri looked at an emotional Jessica and unhesitantly hugged her.

They ignored the people around them, the coldness-- everything. They felt good while hugging each other. Jessica felt warm and secured around Yuri's arms, and Yuri-- Yuri felt the emotion that was surging out of Jessica. She has her share of waiting, she has her share of missing-- and with Jessica, she would be empathetic. She will make her happier while he's away.

"Thanks Yuri."

"I know how you feel, and I know it's hard... But you're right, it's worth the wait. You just have to remember the moments you've shared, and that you love him. With that alone, you'll be inspired to wait longer and to be stronger." Yuri whispered. She felt Jessica tear up, and this somehow hurted her.

"C'mon! Stop crying! Let's just have fun and think about ourselves for once!" Yuri cheered, pulling Jessica up, "Let's stop thinking about them for a while and enjoy while we're here!"

Jessica wiped the tears from her eyes and nodded.That's exactly why she wants to hang out with Yuri, she was always cheerful and caring-- and she never fails to make her smile.

......

......

Chapter Twelve - Winter Air (Part 2)

"They went skiing."

"How sweet."

Tiffany and Taeyeon walked around the resort to enjoy the wonderful view around it. Tiffany looked at a stern-looking Taeyeon, "Hey! What's with that face!? Stop being jealous."

"I'm not. It's just-- Jessica hasn't been hanging around with us these days... Since that Yuri came along."

"Oh c'mon... At least she's a lot happier!" Tiffany baffled, "No offense, but yeah, she is a lot happier when she's with Yuri."

"I wonder why..."

"I don't know either."

They were silent.

"Taeyeon, do you remember when we got straned inside a barn one winter night?"

"Yeah I do."

"Well, I can't forgot how disgusting you looked that night."

Taeyeon jumped in surprise, "What? What do you mean?"

"You were drooling while you were sleeping." Tiffany laughed, pointing at Taeyeon's mouth. Taeyeon laughed with her and smacked her lightly. "No I wasn't!"

"How would you know? You were sleeping."

The two continued laughing as they sat on a bench.

"Tiffany."

"Yes?"

"D-Do you have someone...?"

"What?"

"Do you have someone special in your life."

Tiffany wished that she could just tell Taeyeon that she is the one.

"No." Tiffany smiled, "Why have one if you can enjoy with many? Haha!"

Taeyeon shook her head and grinned. "Or maybe you're just scared."

"Of what?"

"Being hurt."

Tiffany smile evaporated. She looked up, sighed and gazed at the mountain top view in front of them. If only Taeyeon knew.

"I'm already hurt."

"What?"

"Nothing." Tiffany smiled, "You're the one who's scared here."

"I'm not anymore."

"Then tell her already! Tell her why..."

Taeyeon sighed and looked away from Tiffany.

"She's beautiful. Her smile is brighter than the sun. Her skin, so fair. Her body... so."

"Pervy!"

Taeyeon laughed and continued, "She's always been here for me. When I'm as hard as a stone, she would even make me laugh and smile and that I'll crack... The way she cares for me it's different from others... Her laugh, even if it's annoying, runs around my mind all day-- and it never fails to make me laugh as well."

"But most of all... It's her love. Her love for me, how I become when I'm with her... That's why I love her."

Tiffany gazed at Taeyeon for a while, and looked back at the view once more. "Why are you telling me this anyway? I'm not a practice dummy."

Taeyeon grinned, and turned to look at Tiffany. Tiffany looked back, and gave her a puzzled look.

"I already told her."

"And? What did she say?"

Taeyeon leaned forward and embraced Tiffany.

"It's you Tiffany."

Tiffany's heart stopped beating for a second. She felt her knees weaken and her arms shake as those words came out from Taeyeon's mouth. It's her? How can that be possible? Did she lie to her?

"It's been you all along. I was so scared to tell you because I didn't want to ruin our relationship."

"Wait. The whole time we've been talking about Jessica... how you liked her and how much you wanted to be with her... It was me?" Tiffany said, breaking away from the hug. Taeyeon nodded.

"You're making me look like a fool then?"

"No! I was afraid to tell--"

"No Taeyeon! I WAS HURT! I WAS IN PAIN! Do you have any idea how hard Icried every night, thinking that you loved Jessica with all your heart while I'm left out-- praying and hoping that it'll be me instead? Actually that's not it! YOU LIED TO ME! YOU PLAYED WITH ME TAEYEON! YOU!" Tiffany was standing now.

"Tiffany... please just--"

"Why didn't you tell me earlier? You had to hurt me!"

"Tiffany I--"

"No Taeyeon! I was scared too and I needed you there! I was hurt and I needed you to help me! I was confused too and I didn't have anyone with me... You were drifting away!"

"I was scared Tiff..."

"SCARED!? I'm your BEST FRIEND! I wouldn't push you away if you told me you liked me. I would accept and understand you! I would have loved you! Being my bestfriend, I expected that you'd know that by now!"

"TIFF---"

"YOU LIED! It was all a LIE!"

"Tiffany I love--"

"JUST-- Just, leave me alone."

Taeyeon couldn't speak anymore. She didn't expect this kind of reaction from Tiffany-- and much more, she didn't expect that they both felt the same way towards each other. She stood up, took a last glance at Tiffany, and slowly walked away-- leaving Tiffany behind. Tiffany covered her eyes as tears escaped from them.

"I love you too..." Tiffany whispered under her breath.

......

"You mentioned earlier that you had someone."

"And--?"

"Spill. C'mon, tell me something about him."

Yuri tightened her grip on Jessica's arms as she helped her learn how to skii.

"Well... we were childhood friends. And uhh-- well, I think fate was against us so..."

"What do you mean?" Jessica said, trying to balance so hard. "What happened?"

"He... His parents. And uhh-- well, he had to move away. I don't know where he is now, but..."

"Does he like you?"

Yuri was taken a back.

"Well?" Jessica said, turning towards Yuri. Yuri looked from the snow, to Jessica's flushed face. Yuri rubbed her hands together and touched Jessica's cheeks, warming them up.

"I wish he did." Yuri said, gently swaying Jessica around.

......

Chapter Thirteen - Soo

"YURI!"

"WEEEEE!!!"

Yuri drove the red scooter faster as they drove at seaside. The beach looked splendid but the girl didn't seem to enjoy it because she was too scared.

"Yuri! Don't drive too fast!"

"Okay!"

Yuri drove from fast to moderate, as the girl fixed both of their helmets.

"The beach looks nice! I want to swim."

"You want to? What if you get into trouble?"

"I don't care."

Yuri turned and parked the scooter near the seawall. She hopped off the scooter, helping the other girl out. The brown haired girl threw the helmet away and cheered along as she ran to the shore. Yuri ran after her.

They dipped their legs and played in the water as the sound of the waves filled the air. Yuri forgot to took her helmet of, and this made the brown haired girl smile.

"Yuri! Your helmet!"

"What?"

Yuri touched her helmet and blushed. She swiftly took it and threw to where they left their slippers. "I was too caught up in the moment."

They laughed and continued playing.

......

"Yuri, thanks again."

"Forget it. I should be the one thanking you for the scooter."

The girl snorted, "It's nothing. It's just a scooter. But you-- you gave me something that money can't buy-- and it's fun and laughter. So Yuri, thanks so much!"

She threw her a hug and shook her around. Yuri patted her back and flushed as she felt their bodies collide.

"Soo, let's stay like this forever, okay?"

The girl, named Soo, smiled back and broke the embrace. "Sure Yuri! Even if we're... we're old grannies you'd still drive me around amazing places... and we'd still be best friends."

Yuri beamed at her, but deep inside she was somehow-- afraid.

"Graduation's coming up. Let's inquire at the university together afterwards okay?"

"Alright. Do you want to ride the scooter on our way there?"

Soo laughed and gently smacked Yuri. "Silly, it's too far."

"I don't care. At least it's going to be fun, right?"

Soo smiled and patted Yuri. She was always the fun, wild, and crazy one- while she was the reserved one. They're the exact opposites, and that's why they complete each other.

"Right."

......

Yuri and Soo have been best friends since they were young. Since then, Soo's strict and boring life with her family has changed into something more worth living-- something fun, less tightened with rules-- and probable, a better one.

Soo never really had many friends. Her parents never allowed her to go out of the house, and with this-- they homeschooled her. Everyone in the house was busy, and this is why Soo has adapted with the coldness and loneliness.

But when Yuri came along, she would frequently (Secretly) visit her by sneaking through the Soo's window. As they grew older, they learned how to sneak OUT of the house and Yuri would take Soo to different places and would-- in short, teach her how to have fun in life.

In a young age, Soo has experienced her first real love and affection through Yuri.

In turn, Soo would watch over Yuri since Yuri can be reckless and clumsy at times. She'd tell her if she's going too far, and she would listen. Yuri wasn't really fortunate when it came to money; so Soo, being the rich one, would help her with this. The two completed each other.

......

"Hey... We're here."

Yuri took her helmet off and turned to look at a sleeping Soo. She smiled and brushed the hair off of her face. "Soo! We're here!!"

Soo broke from her sleep and looked up at Yuri. "Oh- that was fast."

"Where have you been?"

Yuri's heart pounded. The voice was familiar, and it always sent shivers down her spine.

"Where have you been? Go inside." Soo's mom said, her arms crossed. Soo stood up, waved at Yuri with a worried expression, and ran to the house. Yuri gulped.

"She's wet... and it's late... don't you have any idea how much danger you've put her into?" her mom shouted, "Leave us alone."

Yuri looked down. She always got this reaction from Soo's parents, and they never liked her. They felt that their daughter was being taken away, and that Yuri is a bad influence for her.

"I'm sorry Mrs.--"

"Go home."

Yuri quickly put on her helmet and drove away as fast as she could. "A little more... a little more... We'll be away in no time." Yuri thought, as she imagined the both of them, living their college life together-- just the two of them, away from everything.

......

"Soo! Soooo!"

There was no answer. Yuri stopped knocking. She's been standing outside Soo's room, in the balcony, for an hour now.

Yuri slapped herself. "Darn. It's you're fault-- now she's in trouble!"

Yuri slipped the letter under the balcony's door. She hurriedly climbed off the balcony, and ran to her scooter to resume to her delivery work.

......

"....Meet me at the tree house. I have to tell you something.

Sorry,

Yuri...."

Soo finished reading the letter and got herself dressed as fast as possible. Yuri sounded so serious, and she didn't want the sound of this. She quickly ran to the balcony, looked around for her parents, and climbed off as soon as it was clear.

......

Chapter Fifteen - Could it Be?

Jessica pushed the door open and saw her mom sitting on the table in front of her. This business woman looked very busy and occupied with her work, but Jessica didn't care-- she had to send another letter to Junho.

"Mom."

Mrs. Jung looked up, and raised her eyebrows. "Jessica."

Jessica extended the letter onto her, bowing her head. Mrs. Jung stared from the letter, to Jessica, and sighed. "He hasn't been sending letters lately, am I right?"

Jessica politely said 'Yes', and looked down on the floor. Mrs. Jung stood up, snatched the letter from her, and walked to the window. "What do you think?"

Jessica turned towards her mother, still not directly looking at her, and answered ''About what, mom?"

"About Junho. About his delayed letters- or maybe about him not sending in some letters lately."

Jessica shrugged and looked down once more, "I'm guessing he's busy."

Mrs. Jung let out a sarcastic short laugh, still looking at the city's view in front of her. "You may be right."

Jessica breathed heavily and bowed. "I should get going now."

Her mom turned to her daughter, nodded, and fixed her glasses. "Yes, you should. I'll give you his letters once I get them."

Jessica bowed once more, said her thanks and walked out of the room. Her mom resumed to her work, sliding the letter into one of her folders. She has always been the relay lady between Junho and Jessica ever since, since she told Jessica that going to the post office would be too much of a burden for her.

......

"Hey black pearl."

"YURI..."

Yoona and Sooyoung have been calling out for Yuri but Yuri seemed to be too occupied. The even yesterday disturbed her, although it did feel good, but she can't help but ask herself if it was good or bad.

She recalled how Jessica surprisingly backed away from her, said a quick 'sorry' and ran away from the room. Yuri, who was still intoxicated, couldn't help but look at her as she went off.

Why did she do that? Why didn't I stop her? What's going to happen now? Yuri though. Sooyoung slowly approached her from behind, and pulled a few strands of her hair.

"WHAT?" Yuri barked. Sooyoung and Yoona laughed as a flushed Yuri stood up.

"We've been calling out for you for the last... ten minutes? What are you thinking of anyway?" Yoona said, "where is Seohyun by the way?"

Yuri shrugged her shoulders and sat again. "I'm just... I'm confused."

"What do you mean?"Sooyoung said as she pulled out a bag of chips, "You hungry?"

"No. I'm.. It's..."

"WHAT?" Yoona and Sooyoung said in chorus as they opened the pack.

"It's Jessica. I think she's... I don't want to... Close to her... I think I... But it's wrong and... What if... She's taken... I'm... She needs me... I want to make her smile... But I think things are awkard now... What am I going to do... She--"

"You're falling for her, but she's taken-- and you don't think it's right. Now, things are awkward between the two of you and you don't know what you're gonna do-- is that what you're trying to say?" Sooyoung mumbled as she munched on the chips. Yoona was too focused on what she was eating.

Yuri nodded. She really felt that Jessica needed someone like her- someone who would make her smile, who'd show her how to have fun. She really wants Jessica to be happy. As the days went by, she felt that Jessica needed her more-- and not only that, she also felt the similarity between Jessica... and Soo. This contributed to the fact that she was falling for someone she just met for about months ago.

"Why are things awkward? You're not the type who'd be awkward around someone." Yoona said.

"Well, we..."

"WHAT? YOU ALREADY DID THAT?"

"No... We were... almost there."

Yuri told them about the locker room incident (refer to Chapter Fourteen). Sooyoung choked but Yoona was so engrossed with the story that she already ate three packs. Yuri finished and wiped the sweat from her forhead.

"Charismatic slash strong slash player Yuri's weakness are these kinda stuff eh?" Sooyung said, curling her lips along, "Haha! I should've known."

"No. It's not about that. It's about her. And I'm no player. It's... I don't why or how but-- I'm not really the type of person who'd fall for someone that easily, or in other words-- in a short while... but for Jessica... I feel that... I feel like I've known her for a long time now... somehow I can feel it... and it's weird."

Yoona and Sooyoung stared at a completely occupied Yuri, looked at each other, and sighed.

Yuri touched her heart. She wanted to know what it was trying to say, but she wasn't sure. It pounded faster, as she continued to analyze Jessica's ways, her stories, her face, the way she smiles, her scent, her coldness, herself- who she is when she's with Jessica, the things they bring out of each other---could it be?

No, it can't be- Yuri thought.

Chapter Sixteen - Guilt

The rain didn't stop pouring.

Soo panted as Yuri swayed her around. They've been playing around the garden for hours now, but it seemed never enough for the two.

"Yuri... what were you gonna tell me?"

Yuri stopped swaying her, and let out a forceful breath. Her heart pounded faster, and she could hear it despite the rain. Will she tell her? What will happen after that? She just had to.

She pulled Soo towards the tree house as they left the garden. They were a mess, but they didn't care anyway. Yuri pushed the door open for Soo and walked after her.

"Well?" Soo said, smiling, as she sat on the sofa. Yuri sat beside her, not looking away from those beautiful eyes of hers. Soo blinked several times- her eyes were like magnets for her, they alone- have shown how amazing Soo can be. Beneath those eyes, Yuri felt the warmth that was hidden behind the thick cold stare of Soo's-the icy surface of the princess sitting beside her. She wants to melt her-and she believes she already did.

Soo looked at Yuri. She looked serious but still, Soo found it cute and funny. Yuri's face alone has never failed to make her smile for some reason. Adding to that, Yuri's personality of being caring, protective, compassionate, fun, lovable and most of all- -being warm has somewhat completed the missing part for Soo.

Soo smiled as these thoughts ran around her mind. "Yuri! What were you gonna tell me?"

Yuri snapped out of herself and took a deep breath.

She slowly leaned forward. She felt Soo incline against her, but she didn't care anymore. She leaned forward-closer... and closer...

......

"I love you." Yuri whispered, as their lips almost met.

"I may be carefree and it looks as if I don't care-- but trust me, you're the only the only one I care about... I may be funny and wacky outside- but my love for you is far beyond serious. You told me once that you feel empty, that somehow you feel that there's something missing-- I know that I can fill in your emptiness, and that I am the one who's missing. You seem so cold, let me be your warmth- you say that you're tired of the four corners in your room, well let me break those walls-- and life will never be the same for you."

"I don't want you to be sad, to be bitter, to be cold-- I want you to feel the warmth, I want you to be happy, I want you to love yourself-- and I wanna be that person who'd make you feel that way, who'd stay by your side... it'd mean everything to me... it'd mean everything to me If I could just see you smile... I can't say how much I love you now, because everyday I seem to fall harder and love you more." Yuri let out, as a tear escaped her eye. She was in pain because of fear of rejection. She didn't want to lose her, but holding it up is too much for her anymore.

"I... I may be strong outside but... but you're my weakness. At the same time-- you're my strength because when I see you... I just... I want to be better, I want to be the best for you. I just... I love you so much."

Soo closed her eyes. She felt their lips touch, as a tear dropped from her eyes. She was confused now-she was suddenly scared, unsure of herself-she wanted to hug her, to wipe the tears-- but she was really confused now, very shocked. She wanted to run away.

She pushed Yuri away, stood up and quickly ran out of the tree house. It wasn't because she was uncomfortable, she was just-scared and confused.

She heard Yuri call after her but she ignored her. She ran away. She ran as fast as she could. The tears continued to surge down her eyes as she finally ran out of air. She felt bad for leaving Yuri behind, but she wanted to be alone for now... she wants to think. Yuri is her best friend, and she didn't want that to change.

......

Yuri sat inside the tree house and continued sulking. She'll kill herself if Soo would be in trouble-she'd never forgive herself if their good friendship will be ruined just because of her selfish confession-she'd forever blame herself for everything.

"It's my fault... it's my fault..." Yuri whimpered. Why couldn't she hold onto it longer? Why did she have to make her cry? Why did she have to scare her?

The image of a crying, scared and confused Soo kept rewinding on her mind. She clenched her fists and cried louder. She was supposed to make her smile, she's supposed to be there for her when she'd cry- she supposed to BE THERE for her, against all odds.

She would be damned if Soo would leave her.

......

Chapter Seventeen - Completely

Soo opened her eyes. She felt the heat surge up from her insides out her mouth, and panted as she closed her eyes once more. It's been a week...

A week since she's been sick... A week of loneliness... coldness... silence...

A week without Kwon Yuri.

As much as she didn't want to recall, the image of a crying Yuri kept running in her mind. Her heart ached as she remembered the scene, again and again. She didn't want that, she never did- but she was overwhelmed.

She missed Yuri. She missed how Yuri would sneak through her window, she missed how she'd make laugh and smile in the simplest way, she missed how they would travel around the countryside with Yuri's red scooter, she missed how Yuri would make every day of her life better... but most of all, she missed Yuri's simple presence.

She tried to sit up straight, but she failed to. She's been ignoring Yuri for weeks now, and she doesn't really know why- not until now.

She tried to sit again, but her back fell on the bed. She smiled faintly, thinking how Yuri would've helped her get back up-or maybe, how Yuri would've caught her from falling down. She has polished her thoughts.

From the start, Yuri has always been there. When she was lonely she was beside her to keep her in company, when she was scared she was always in front of her- turning her fears into a great feeling of safety. When she was about to fall she was always there to catch her, and if she's weak- she'd never leave her, but instead, she'd fall with her. When she was in joy, Yuri would always lift her higher. Yuri was all around her in all circumstances- why did she run away from this?

In turn she would watch over a clumsy Yuri. She would always (secretly) follow her around, as she would deliver boxes of soya or milk to earn a living. Jessica really wanted to help her, but Yuri went against this. She was really rich, while Yuri needed to work for her mom and herself. But why was she so sad? She knew why, so the question should be-why was Yuri so happy in first place despite her situation? How could someone like Yuri make someone like Soo even happier more than everything else? There must be a reason behind this.

Soo finally gathered the strength to stand up, but all of a sudden her strength evaporated and she fell again on her bed. The door opened. She wished it was Yuri, but then-

"Sooyeon."

Her dad took off his jacket and swiftly threw her a tight hug. He just got home from the States.

"Sooyeon I missed you. Are you okay now? You're still hot (*temperature guys, temperature). Wait-why are you crying?" He said.

Soo's dad worked in the States. He only goes home once a year, therefore, leaving Jessica with her mom. Soo and her dad were not close, but still, her dad would be less strict. Her dad was always kind hearted. He was always at work, but he always has time to talk to Soo once in a while.

"Sooyeon..."

Soo hugged him back and closed her eyes. She needed to let out some load.

"Dad... I..."

"Yes?"

"Dad... I've done something wrong."

Her dad sat up and patted her daughter. "What?"

"I've done someone wrong. And I don't know what to do--"

"What did you do?"

"I left her."

"Why?"

Soo was stopped by the question 'why'. Why did she leave her? She wasn't worth it. Why or how could she? Her heart ached more as she tried to speak despite being close to tears.

"I don't know why... but... I've been dishonest not only to her, but also to what I feel. I've been brushing it away, but it always comes back."

"Her? Why what happened?"

"I ran away."

Soo's dad laughed. He crossed his legs and continued to pat her daughter. "Sooyeon, you're about to graduate from high school and you still run away from your friends? Why, did they bully you?"

Soo shook her head. She was not going tell her dad about Yuri's confession, but she was merely asking for advice about her feelings.

"Dad, what if-I've been denying..."

Her dad leaned forward, straightened his glasses, and smiled "I've been there, Sooyeon."

"The thing is... You're denying something... you're denying a feeling... you're denying...it only comes to one point or one truth in the end-since you've been denying all along, then that means that you feel something... You've always felt something. And my Sooyeon, that feeling is all that matters- trust me. That feeling you're denying, is the most important thing you have to consider." Her dad said in a fatherly tone.

"Like a mask- the fears, confusion and denials are simply there to hide what's truly in your heart. In the end- the mask doesn't really last, and the heart will always win over in the end because you realize through time. But the problem there is that-everything could be too late."

"The fear, confusion, uncertainty-these are only temporary. But the heart and what it feels, trust me, it's way more than permanent-it's everlasting." He finished. Soo looked up at her dad, and embraced him.

"I'm glad you're home dad." Soo whispered.

Beneath the smile she delivered onto him, there was an unmasked heart that was ready to pump back into life again-this time, better, and more honest to itself. Now she's completely uncovered- completely ready to let it go-completely ready to let her know.

......

Chapter Eighteen - S

Soo played with the necklace as she waited for her parents to leave. Her smile glowed brighter as she remembered.

Yuri has been really busy for a couple of weeks. She didn't know why, but Yuri was always in a hurry-and when she's not, she's always tired and sleepy. This made her think that Yuri was working extra hard-but why?

Finally, one cloudy afternoon, they met under their special tree- each brining a basket with the other. They were going to have their weekly picnic there.

After having random conversations throughout the afternoon, Yuri pulled out something from her pocket. The necklace.

"Soo, I bought you something. It's not much- but I made it myself."

Soo touched her heart, and looked from Yuri to the necklace. "You made? No way!"

Yuri pouted and handed her the necklace. It looked very beautiful: it had a purple heart on it, with the 'S' initial hanging near.

"H-How? W-Why?"

"It's an advance graduation gift." Yuri said, smiling "It's one of a kind, so don't lose it, okay?"

Soo gripped on the thing, as tears escaped from her puffy eyes. Yuri approached her immediately, "HEY! Why are you crying? I know it's cheap but---"

"Yuri, is this why you've been working extra hard? Is this why you're always tired? Is this why you're busier than ever? Is this why you're... you're..."

Yuri cupped her mouth and chuckled. "Silly, stop crying. Yes, that's why I've been working extra hard- that's why I'm always tired-that's why I'm busier-and I'm happy with that. It's all worth it, it's all for you."

Soo was silenced. For a minute there Yuri caught her off guard. Again, she managed to melt the ice off of her.

"I'm so sweet am I?" Yuri kidded, "Yeah, I know-you're falling for me."

They laughed as the wind blew against the trees' falling leaves.

"You're over-confident." Soo snapped, "So proud of yourself, eh? And yet you can't even drive your scooter right! You're lucky I bought you a new one."

"Fine! I'll give it back to you then!" Yuri barked. Soo stopped laughing and looked at a serious looking Yuri.

"No way. I love that scooter." Yuri said, grinning. Soo pushed her and she fell on her back. They laughed once more.

"What's the 'S' for?"

Yuri sat back up, scratched her head, and pursed her lips. "Guess what."

"Uhh- Sooyeon?" Soo answered, "It's kinda obvious you know."

"Nah. It's not that. Well yeah, it's that but-it has another meaning." Yuri was putting peanut butter on her sandwich. "Keep guessing."

"Sweet?"

"If we're talking about sweet here then that should belong to me."

"Whatever! Umm-Serious?"

"No!"

"Then what?"

Yuri finally stopped chewing, swallowed the lump on her throat, and said "Stalker."

Soo let out a short laugh, "That's it? Stalker?"

"Yeah."

"Why?"

"Because you stalk me a lot." Yuri quickly replied, "I'd like you to remember that once in your life-you were caring enough to watch over someone like me. I want you to remember how clumsy I was, I want you to know how thankful I am for everything you've done- giving me a scooter, saving me when I was in the accident-everything."

"And you used the word 'stalker?" Soo said, "That's just... wrong."

Yuri laughed. "It also means another thing. It's something I want to tell you- but yeah, I won't tell you now."

"TELL ME!"

"Noo. You'll know soon enough."

"Sorry?"

"No!" Yuri shouted, "Don't be naughty Soo, it's something more... like more of a... request... or... I dunno what it's called. But you'll figure it out soon enough, when we get into fight or something..."

"I don't get you." Soo giggled, "But Yuri, thank you so much."

......

Soo looked at the glittering necklace once more. What did the 'S' mean?

She played with it with her fingers. She gazed outside the window and saw that the rain didn't stop yet. She sighed, and heard her mother's car start. She's officially leaving for work.

Now was her chance to escape- her chance to go back to her- her chance to finally let her know.

......

"Stay." Yuri whispered, as she recalled the herself crying for Soo. She wanted to pull her back, she wanted to run after her- but she was trembling too much that afternoon, she was scared, emotional and weak.

"Stay." She said once more, as she recollected on Soo running away with tears after her sudden confession. She sank deeper into her bed.

Please stay. Yuri thought, she repeated it again and again as her tears endlessly plunged from her already weary eyes. It's been days but for Yuri it's way longer than that. Stay... She shouted it for many times now- but still-

She left, and it's all her fault.

......

Chapter Nineteen - Underneath the Stars (Part 1)

Seohyun closed the door behind her and took a deep breath as she looked at the bus stop nearby. She saw Yoona waiting for her, with that kiddy back pack of hers being too obvious.

She slowly paced towards her and poked her, "Yoona, sorry for keeping you waiting."

Yoona just grinned at her, "It's okay. So, what did you do there?"

Seohyun visited her step-dad's clinic for some advice regarding her chest pains. Seohyun wasn't really alarmed by it in the first few days. But after weeks of having it occur, she finally took the chance to consult.

"Oh, umm. I asked for allowance." she lied.

Yoona curled lips like a kid and raised her eyebrows, as if knowing that it was a lie in the first place. "Really? You never do that."

Seohyun ignored her and stepped into the bus that just stopped in front of them. She hoped that this night would be great for the two of them.

......

"Oh, that's just..."

"Mmmmm!"

"Sunny!!!"

Sunny kissed the icing away from Sooyoung's chin . They were playing with the cake that they were eating while Yuri was concentrating on some paper.

"Yaah! Don't make me kiss you back." Sooyoung snapped, as she was turning redder. Sunny giggled and kissed her on the cheek.

"That's what I'm trying to do." she whispered, Sooyoung blushed even more and slightly pushed her. The two laughed together as Yuri was still focused on the paper.

Yuri's attention was just diverted when she saw Sooyoung and Sunny kissing each other (sweetly).

"Cute."

She then remembered that night when she (almost) kissed a scared Soo. She never forget, the scene, the pain- and the guilt inside her heart. She would do anything to bring it all back, but then again, she can't.

Sunny smiled romantically at Sooyoung, as they sat back up. Yuri was just looking at them, while finally folding the piece of paper and pushing it in her pocket.

"It's almost night." Sunny said, "Yuri, where's Jessica?"

Yuri shrugged her shoulders. She remembered the awkward but hot (*yes, sexy hot) moment in the locker room. They never talked since then.

"She's been looking for you. Did something happen?" Sunny continued. She heard Sooyoung choke on the cake as she almost laughed. Sooyoung knew about the incident.

Yuri sneakily kicked Sooyoung and shrugged her shoulders once more. "Oh, uhh- really? Nothing happened. I've been really busy so..."

Sooyoung was staring at Yuri mischievously with a small piece of cake stuck between her teeth. Yuri almost laughed but she didn't want to embarrass her. Sunny saw this and chuckled so loudly that the people around them all turned to her direction. Sooyoung clearly didn't get it.

Sooyoung blushed as Sunny told her, but still- the two cheerfully teased each other. They were always sweet. Yuri looked at them with a faint smile written across her face. Somehow, inside, she felt happy for them- but still, somehow hurt.

......

Jessica rested her elbows on the bridge's rails and looked dreamingly at the night light view of the city. The river below her (the bridge) and its continuous view in front of her made it more wonderful. Suddenly she wasn't lonely anymore.

But still deep inside her heart she felt a pinch of pain- she didn't know exactly why, but maybe it's because of Junho's delayed letters- or maybe, because of Yuri.

She admitted to herself that Yuri is indeed her closest friend (all in an instant) now, even in a shorted time compared to the other friends she has. She was used to having her around, she was used to the feeling that she has with her and she really missed her. No doubt ab out it, Yuri helped or helps in making her days and nights brighter.

But since that incident, they never met again. Everything was plain awkward.

......

"So beautiful."

"Thanks."

Seohyun laughed and smacked Yoona, "Not you silly, the stars."

Yoona pouted and smacked her back. "Why, am I not beautiful for you?"

Seohyun smiled and shook her head. Yoona chuckled like a dork and resumed to looking up at the sky. It was filled with stars, stars that looked like glittering diamonds spread across a dark blue carpet. Well, at least that's how Yoona imagined it.

Seohyun gazed at the awesome and mysterious view. The stars looked a lot clearer tonight, along with the cold night breeze that spring brought about. Suddenly, the busy life at the city turned into something calmer- something more soothing and relaxing.

The only noise they'd hear was their own voices, and the voices that ran around their own minds.

"Yoong."

"Yeah?"

"Uhh... I feel like I'm all left out."

"Haha! Why is that?"

"Well... You know... Yuri has been really busy with her work, and if not- she'd be at home or she'd hang out with Jessica, Sooyoung, or You. I mean, we don't really get along that much."

"And Sooyoung, well, she's with Sunny most of the time and if not- well, she hangs out with us but you know... We don't really get along. And you-- well..." Seohyun cut.

Yoona just looked up at the stars, waiting for Seohyun to continue.

"Well, for you- you seem to get along well with the two, and- well... you-- I just feel like I don't get along well with everyone and... I feel left out and... I just--"

Yoona turned to Seohyun and made her face her by putting both hands on Seohyun's cheeks, pressing them to make her look like fish (lol, I'm not good with this-- just imagine it).

"Seohyun, first of all- you're right about a few stuff. About Yuri, Sooyoung and even me. I get along well with them, they get along well with me- fine! But still, you're wrong about one thing."

"What's that then?"

"You're wrong about you being left out, because you can never be... Not with me around. We may not get along well and I may get along better with others- but Seohyun, it's me and them- it's not us."

Seohyun blinked twice.

"Seohyun, what I'm trying to say here is that- it's not really important if you can get along well with someone. For me, the important thing there is that you're there for each other, you're happy when you're around each other, and that you got each other's back no matter what. So Seohyun, don't worry too much- 'cause I'll always be here for you." Yoona finished with a wide grin. Seohyun was speechless for a moment.

"What's wrong with you?" Seohyun blurted out. She wasn't really used to this kind of a Yoona- someone open and somehow-- warm hearted.

Yoona scratched her head and laughed noisily. "You could have just said thanks. I was too caught up in the moment... you know, with all the romantic scenery."

Seohyun giggled and gently pushed her. Yoona never failed to make her smile.

"Thanks."

......

Yuri rode her scooter faster as she recalled another memory with Soo. They were going to inquire for the university's application, so they decided on escaping from the country side and driving to the city one day. That day, since they weren't really familiar around the city, they got lost.

She remembered how scared and hopeless they were that day. Night came and still, they didn't get to their destination. The only thing that kept them going was each other's presence. Behind all of that, the two still (somehow) enjoyed it because even if they were lost and scared, they still had each other to pamper things off and to make each other feel secured and somehow, still happy.

After taking several turns around the city, finally they stopped over at a bridge where a splendid city view was seen from it. From the bridge you could see the river, and the night lights of the city, and of course- the glittering stars above them. These things alone, made them feel less lonely-- along with each other's presence.

That night they talked and talked and talked-- they enjoyed the view and agreed that when they get to college, they would come back to that bridge once more, whenever they felt lonely and lost.

This night, Yuri felt lost.

......

Jessica glanced at where the sound came from. The bubbly sound of the scooter's engine weirdly makes her feel better- but she didn't know why.

......

Chapter Nineteen - Underneath the Stars (Part 2)

Taeyeon hugged her tightly as they continued to gently kiss each other. After that, the two looked up at the sky and was caught up with the wonderful view above them.

Tiffany smiled and hugged Taeyeon once more. She felt cold after being in the alley for an hour now, just doing her thing with Taeyeon there. But inside she felt warm still, since Taeyeon kept her in company.

"Taeyeon."

"Yes?"

"Nothing, I just wanna say your name."

"Ha-ha! (*ahjumma laugh) Why?"

"Because, by just saying it, I feel much better. I feel warm, I feel secured-- and for once, I feel sincerely loved."

She heard Taeyeon snort. "Fany- have you been reading?"

Tiffany laughed and swayed her, as they continued to look up at the stars.

"No, I just... I just really love you."

Taeyeon looked at Tiffany, and smiled. Everything was going great for them, and she will keep it that way. She really loves her, and she'll live by that feeling.

"I love you too."

Tiffany pointed to the stars with a bright smile on her face, "Well! The stars are our witnesses. I bet they had witnessed a lot of happenings here on earth... I mean, they've been there for maybe... a million years and so..."

Taeyeon found this kinda cute, and continued to smile. "We don't need witnesses because it's already stamped across our hearts."

"My my, Taeyeon, you've been reading as well!"

The cold night air, the warm atmosphere between the two and the laughter that came out of them made the night much better for them.

......

"Yuri?"

Yuri took her helmet off and saw Jessica standing on the bridge. She didn't expect that she'd see someone (specially Jessica) here, since usually people just pass by.

"J-Jessica? Hey! What are you doing here?" Yuri cheerfully chanted back, trying to ignore the awkward atmosphere between them.

"I don't really know, I just felt like going here for some reason... that I don't even know myself." Jessica laughed- she felt much happier now, now that someone (specifically Yuri) kept her in company.

"What about you, what are you doing here?"

Yuri took her driving gloves off and pushed them into her leather jacket's pocket. She didn't want to tell her about Soo, or their memory here (which is the reason after all for her visit here)-- so instead, she replied "I saw you, and saw that you were alone. Mind if we hang out for a bit?"

Jessica nodded.

For a few minutes they stayed silent, along with the night light view of the city before them, the river, and the stars above. They thought about the locker room incident, and tried to brush it away for many times now. Things were indeed super awkward for the two of them, but they didn't show any signs of feeling that way.

"Where have you been?" Jessica let out.

"I've been busy with work."

Jessica nodded. She knew that Yuri was somehow affected with that incident, and that she felt the same way as she did-- confused, awkward, scared and embarrassed. There was no point at hiding and ignoring the situation now- besides, it already happened.

"Yuri I'm sorry for what happened in the locker--"

"It's okay. It's my fault I was--"

"No! I started it and I was kinda---"

"It's alright. I understand. I mean I was--"

"No... really I didn't mean it I was--"

"Yeah. Umm... I'm sorry too it's my--"

"It's my fault."

The two stopped talking and realized that they were going no where. Finally, the other one straightened things out.

"Let's just... move on from it, shall we?" Jessica said. Yuri nodded in agreement, and looked away as their eyes met.

"So umm, was I too hot (*yes, that kinda hot) for you that afternoon?" Yuri joked. Jessica pushed her and laughed. "You're really silly, are you? I missed you Yuri."

Yuri smiled, although somehow it felt awkward.

She was indeed falling for Jessica, and hearing those words from her made her heart beat faster.

She looked at Jessica. Why was she here in the first place?

She remembered Soo once more. How she looked very similar to Jessica- how the two act and feel the same way- how the two speak and smell the same way... how everything else seem similar for the two of them... Could it be that... No, she brushed that thought away again.

Besides, Soo would have ignored her, would have ran away from her, would have avoided her, in the first place. But Jessica did the opposite.

But it was weird finding her here- or maybe it was just a coincidence- since this bridge was and will always be a special place for Yuri and Soo.

"I missed you too." Yuri finally replied.

"I miss you so much." She thought, as Soo's cold but cute face appeared in here mind once more- like any other day. She just wanted to grab her out of her mind and hug her for real-- she just wanted her back-- she wanted her to stay...

But this time, Soo's memory felt closer... and Yuri didn't know why.

......

Chapter Twenty - The Necklace

The fact that Jessica was taken made Yuri hesitant. They didn't really talk about Jessica's lover, or her lover as well. When Yuri and Jessica hang around with each other, this sensitive topic about their respective lovers is always out of the picture. No names were exchanged, no secrets revealed- nothing at all. The only thing that they know is that both of them are taken already.

But Yuri's curiosity about Jessica's lover grew as they got closer. She wanted know who this person was and how Jessica fell in love with him. Yuri has gotten honest with what she feels for Jessica- and has admitted to the fact that she is falling for her. The weird thing is that, she's falling for her the same way she did for Soo.

Jessica and Soo are both very similar to each other, according to Yuri. Everything was just-- so similar for the two that they look like twins now. Although the idea that Soo and Jessica are both the same person occurred to Yuri, she didn't want to expect too much from this- she didn't want to conclude directly... but instead, she'll wait for more evidences.

She vowed to save herself for Soo or no one else- but Jessica... there's a strong feeling that this Jessica is the person she's been waiting for all along.

So far, the only evidences she's got are the similarity of their physical appearance, their personality, and lastly- their aura and approach towards Yuri. Is the fast beating of her heart, and the mere feeling of it and its loud cry for Jessica ENOUGH to prove everything? To prove that what she feels and that the crazy idea in her mind is true? Or rather, can be possible?

Yuri shook her head and pushed the door in front of her. She fixed her neck tie as she approached the comfort room's mirror. Suddenly, she heard someone coughing.

The cough sounded so severe. It sounded painful, even for the ears.

"Hello? Are you okay?" Yuri called out to one of the cubicles. There was no answer.

"Hello?" Yuri yelled once more, the coughing has stopped, and there was no other sound. A sudden thump made Yuri jump.

She crawled and peeked under the cubicles to see who it was. She was so nervous that her hands were shaking madly.

......

Yoona knelt in front of the little kid and handed him a balloon. He patted him and bid him goodbye as the boy ran back to his parents. The park was again, filled with a lot of people since it was late in the afternoon. Some of the decorative lights are switched on now- it looked like it was going to be a great night at the park once more.

Yoona smiled to herself as she reminisced.

She's been hanging around the park from time to time to shoot different scenes from her camera. Through this, she met her special someone.

She first met him while she was taking pictures from the playing children. She saw how friendly this person was, how fun and warm he was towards the children around him. Yoona was always touched by these types of people- those people who love children, and are fun and friendly.

At the time she built enough confidence, Yoona unhesitatingly approached him and finally introduced himself. Since then, the two of them have been having regular 'dates' around the park- along with the children, almost ever afternoon. Through this, Yoona liked him even more.

He was always so nice to her, and in return, she was nice to him as well. He'd buy her food (which, of course, Yoona enjoyed very much), he'd make her laugh, he'd touch her heart-- even without directly talking to her.

But this afternoon, he didn't come to the park. Yoona crossed her arms in worry, and looked down on her wristwatch. It was already late in the afternoon, and it seems like he's not going to come-- not today.

Yoona swayed her bag and fixed her jacket. She waved to the children and sadly left, unlike any other day when she'd always leave with a huge smile written across her face.

......

Jessica pushed her cellphone back into her pocket. She jumped onto her bed and closed her eyes. She tried to brush the thoughts about Yuri, and focused on Junho. Why was his letters not coming? Did something bad happen?

She remembered how she lost the purple heart necklace. This necklace is very important not only to her, but to them. It's one of the few memories that he has left her-- and now, she's lost it. She came back to the park several times to look for it but then again, she failed in doing so.

She walked to the shelf and pulled the purple scrapbook. She read the words written in front 'Things that remind me of You'. This is filled with their memories, and Jessica would always feel better when she'd hold it. When she's holding it, suddenly the empty spaces inside her are filled with joy, warmth and love..

She read the four chapter titles, and closed her eyes as she imagined them happening once more. Suddenly she felt her heart grow lighter, and suddenly everything was brighter. If only she could go back to those days-- if only she could put herself into the scrapbook-- then all of the emptiness and coldness will fade away.

"Chapter two, under the oak tree." she read, as the smile on her face widened. She glided her finger above the letters written- she must've been so emotional and passionate at the time that she wrote this (scrapbook). The text inside was too full of emotion and love, that she can't even believe that she wrote it her self.

......

Yuri shook her furiously. She shouted for her name but she wasn't waking up. The blood from her mouth looked fresh, and this meant that she just fainted. She shook her, she called for her name but no answer came from the lifeless girl.

Yuri opened the cubicle's door and called out for help. She heard several girls respond, as some of them cooperated.

Yuri crouched beside her and held onto her arm. She was very cold.

"No... please no!!!... Please... please wake up!" she cried, tears flowing down her cheeks and heart beating fast.

The paramedics arrived and they managed to move her onto the stretcher. Yuri grabbed the girl's bag and ran after the paramedics. Her legs were shaking with fear, but she had to be there for her. The girl remained pale and lifeless.

Sooyoung saw this commotion and ran beside Yuri. After seeing the girl, she put her other arm around Yuri as she herself was as nervous as her. The two of them were very shocked, scared, and are in tears now. "Yuri what happened?!"

"I was... I was..." Yuri stuttered as she tried her best. Her hands were trembling so badly that she dropped the girl's bag, spilling some of the stuff from inside. She quickly grabbed it from the floor, picked each object and put them back into the bag.

Before she could completely stand up, she saw that she missed one thing and swiftly walked to it. The glittering object caught her attention. She looked at it closely, bent down and picked it up from the floor... the necklace.

"Yuri we have to hurry!"

Yuri tilted her head forward. She blinked twice to make sure that what she was seeing was real.

"YURI!"

Yuri suddenly couldn't hear anything. Her heart running faster, but her hands a lot calmer as she looked at the sparkling purple heart necklace and held onto the initial 'S'.

......

Chapter Twenty-one - Afternoons with You

"Hotcakes, or pancakes?"

"Pancakes."

"Winter or summer?"

"Uhh. Winter."

"Home or outside?"

"H-Home..."

"Mother or father?"

The girl was silenced.

"Mother or father? C'mon!" Yuri chanted. Soo remained silent for a few more seconds and blurted out.

"Neither."

Yuri looked at the seriousness painted on her face, and shook her. She tickled her and again, she succeeded in making the cold girl smile.

"We're total opposites. I like hotcakes, I love summer- I'd rather go outside... we complete each other! Yay!" she cheerfully said, Soo nodded and giggled at the site of a dorky Yuri.

"Your idea worked pretty well! I can't believe we've been doing this for a long time now."

"It feels as if it was just yesterday." Soo continued as she looked up at the clouds. Yuri looked up at them as well.

"We're not so lonely after all. I mean, we've got the clouds, the sky, the butterflies, this old tree-- they've all kept us in company through the years." Yuri whispered as the air blew.

"I'm never lonely when I'm with you." Soo said, turning to Yuri with a glittering smile on her face. Yuri grinned at her, "You didn't have to say that. You don't think I that?"

The two laughed as the clouds continued to pass them by, the old tree shading them still from the sunlight, rain, and even their troubles-- through the years.

......

Flashback on chapter.

Soo continued running. The rain fell hard and she couldn't see where she was going anymore- but she didn't care. Her shoes were so wet with mud now, and her shirt as well- in short the little girl was a mess. She finally stopped running after she fell down on the ground, being totally drained with all the running.

She panted and panted and panted... when.

"E-Excuse me."

Soo looked up to see a tan girl, munching on her hotcakes. She was semi wet, but still- she continued munching. She crouched down and extended her little palm to Soo. "It's you again! Why are you so dirty?"

"I...I..."

"Are you hungry? I have more in my bag." Yuri said, pointing to her bag. Soo sat up and wiped herself with her shirt. "I-It's you..."

Yuri smiled, pulled a towel from her kiddy back pack, and threw it to Soo. "There! I'm gonna sleep here for the night, do you want to stay?"

Soo nodded. But why was Yuri going to sleep here in the first place? Didn't she have a house to go home to? A family that would worry about her?

Soo didn't want to go home, besides, it's not even a home. Yuri handed her a hotcake and smiled once more, "what do you want to do?"

Soo just glared at Yuri and shrugged her shoulders. Yuri didn't stop smiling, but instead, her smile widened. "I know! I know! Let's get to know each other! Let's ask each other some questions every time we meet here. Do you want that?"

Soo nodded, she didn't know what to do anyway. AND she didn't know if she'll come back here after she'll leave. She looked at Yuri- she's so cheerful and friendly, and she seems so nice. Soo gave her a faint smile, and agreed to herself that she'll be friends with this person-- besides, going home would be sad for her, and she has to make it up to her as well.

End of flashback (on chapter).

......

Since that day onwards, they've always hung out at that spot-- and they did what Yuri suggested.. Soo would sneak out of the house, and would sometimes sleep with Yuri (when they planned to) through the night. If not, she would meet her there at afternoons (when her parents are away at work). They did what Yuri said: they asked questions to get to know each other more-- or even more, as time went by. Not only did they ask questions, but as they grew up, they developed it into conversations and just-- merely having fun together. In an instant, Soo's cold and lonely life turned otherwise.

with that- their friendship sprouted out of no where. The friendship that would soon give great impact to their once simple life.

......

"Here are your pancakes miss."

Yuri laid the plate on the table and paced back to the counter. She finally took a seat, after walking and standing around for hours.

She leaned on the table and rested her chin on her folded arms. Her eyes were too heavy, she just wanted to sleep. The coffee shop was very much filled with people since it's breakfast time. Yuri's tummy grumbled but she chose to ignore it-- besides, she didn't have the appetite.

She was going to fall asleep when a sudden thump woke her up. She looked up and saw, to her fear, Mr. Song.

As usual, he wore his black tuxedo and shades. Along with him were two men, dressed almost the same as him. He bent down to look at Yuri closer.

Yuri inclined away from him, fear written across her already tired face. Mr. Song didn't look happy at all.

"Outside, now." He said in furious whisper. Mr. Choi, the manager, was too distracted from the papers he was working on. Yuri, nonetheless, having no choice, stood up and followed the three men outside. She knew that this was going to happen, and how hard she begged that it wouldn't.

"Explain."

"I'm... I'm..."

"EXPLAIN. NOW."

"I'm really busy, I'm so sorry but I'll make it up to--"

"That's not a good reason at all. Maybe you want to stay away, am I correct? To run away from this, if I'm not mistaken?"

Yuri swallowed the lump on her throat; she felt herself throb in nervousness and fear. But along with that, there was a spark of courage.

"I don't think I can do this anymore."

The man snapped his fingers and in an instant, they dragged Yuri into an alley. Without stopping,one of the men pinned her against the cold wall and the other slapped her across the face. Mr. Song stood there, lighting up his cigarette.

"What did you say?"

Yuri shook her head, and looked at him straight in the eye. She has never done this before.

"I said, I'm not going to do this anymore."

The man threw her against the wall. Yuri heard her back crack, as she fell on the alley's cold street. One of the men kicked her, and this made her cry out in pain. Mr. Song crouched in front of her.

"You will do this, or else... you don't even want to know."

He gave Yuri a light push on the forehead as he stood up. Yuri remained lying on the ground, massaging her tummy as the three men walked away. She couldn't hear anything but her heartbeat, and she couldn't feel anything but the pain. She closed her eyes, gripping the purple heart necklace inside her pocket. She has to keep it safe.

Suddenly, everything went dark.

......

Chapter Twenty-two - Tears

Yoona sat in front of her as she held her hand. Seohyun's been in the hospital for days now but it seemed longer than that. Although Seohyun was a quiet and reserved type of a person, Yoona always enjoyed having her around-- she was used to having her around-- since they've been with each other since they were young.

Yoona observed Seohyun's chest as it rose up and down-- her eyes tightly closed and her mouth semi-open. Her heart ached at this sight, she just wanted to be in that place instead of her.

The room's door opened and two tall girls walked in.

"How is she feeling?" Sooyoung said, placing the plastic bags of groceries on a table. Yoona stood up and scanned them for food. She hasn't been eating properly for days now.

"Same same. Still weak... Still..."

Yuri sat on the sofa, crossed her legs and leaned forward. "Is she awake?"

"No, not yet." Yoona answered, "The nurse will come to wake her up in an hour."

Yuri nodded and gazed at Seohyun. She has to ask her about the necklace.

......

"I lost it somewhere at the park." Jessica said, her lips almost meeting the coffee cup.

"Well, did you come back to look for it?" Hyoyeon said, one of her elbows resting on the chair.

Jessica nodded. She's been looking for it for months now but still... she never found it again. This necklace was the only memory he left (had with) her, along with the scrapbook she's made for both of them. She can't believe how reckless she was for losing such an important thing.

"Taeyeon and Tiffany are together, you heard?" Sunny said, changing the topic. "Good for them, I thought she liked Jessica."

Jessica grunted and took another sip. "Let them be."

Hyoyeon shook her head and smiled, "My my Jessica, why do you sound so bitter towards these types of relationships anyway?"

"Because it's not right, and it looks stupid."

Sunny stood up, snatched her bag and slightly pushed Jessica, "You know what, do you even know what's right in the first place?-- following these 'standard' and 'ideal' rules on love or FOLLOWING YOUR HEART?"

"Hey Sunny, sit down... calm down..." Hyoyeon said, pulling her down. Sunny brushed her hands off.

"I'm tired of this. I'm tired of her (Jessica's) bitterness towards me and Sooyoung, towards Tiffany and Taeyeon-- who are all merely loving each other whole-heartedly and truthfully, who are innocent of any crime or whatsoever."

"Your so judgmental and you don't even know how we feel in the first place. Or rather, you just can't appreciate how beautiful and passionate our love is for each other for even taking the risks of being criticized and judged by other people. OR MAYBE- you don't even know what real love is because that Junho guy never existed in the first place!"

Hyoyeon stood up and cupped Sunny's mouth. Jessica stopped drinking her coffee.

"You are in love with someone who only exists through letters, paperworks, and a necklace! Think again Jessica, that's only a part of how real love is-- or maybe, it's not even real at all!"

"SUNNY STOP IT!" Hyoyeon roared, the coffee shop was half empty now.

She clenched her fists under the table, and held her breath as she tried to keep her guard on. Sunny panted and glared at Jessica. Hyoyeon looked from Sunny to Jessica.

Jessica bit her lower lip as tears began to surge from her eyes. Sunny's words pierced through her, and she couldn't hold it in any longer. Junho is important to her, and so are the letters- the scrapbook and the necklace. Hearing those words from Sunny really hurted her, she clearly crossed the line.

She stood up, gathered her stuff, turned away and walked out of the coffee shop.

"Sunny, darn it. You know how--"

"I was--"

"You know her condition." Hyoyeon firmly said, "You know it, and you had to go that far."

Sunny exhaled deeply, and sat down. A feeling of guilt was starting to grow in her.

......

Yuri checked her wristwatch. "She's late."

She looked around, still, there was no sign for Jessica.

They planned on going to the amusement park for the night, and it's been so long since the locker room incident. Yuri really missed hanging out with her.

The warm air of spring crept into her, as people in the park walk out and leave little by little. It was getting late, but still- no Jessica.

After an hour she finally saw her. Her blond hair was really obvious from a far. Yuri stood up, fixed her bag and walked to her.

"Hey! You have to treat me for tonight since you came in late! You--"

Yuri stopped talking as she saw the tears from Jessica's eyes. Jessica's eyes were fixed on the ground as she took short breaths. She continued crying, and this made Yuri wonder why.

"I-I'm sorry... what's wrong? What happ--"

Jessica suddenly threw her a hug- a very tight and cozy hug-- that made her step back a bit. Yuri looked down on Jessica as she cried on her shoulder. She hugged her tighter and more passionately as she felt Jessica crying.

"I-I just want him to be here..." Jessica whispered under her breath. "I can't wait any longer... I... I just want him here... I...want-him-here..."

Yuri's embrace made her feel secured. Yuri wrapped her arms around her tighter, as she pulled her in. "I-I don't know what to say..."

"I feel so alone... I feel so cold... They don't even understand... I'm just--"

"I'm here, okay?" Yuri cut her, "I'm here to make you feel less lonely. I'm here to make you feel warm and most of all- I'm here to understand you. So please, stop crying, okay?"

Jessica continued crying. She was, and is, indeed very hurt. Yuri closed her eyes. She hated this sight, she hated seeing other people cry-- it reminds her of Soo-- reminds her of herself-- how the two of them cried so hard, how their friendship ended just because of THAT.

Yuri took a deep breath, and patted Jessica on the head.

"Remind yourself that you love him, that way- it'll be a lot easier."

Jessica shook her head, "No, it'll make things harder. I just love him so much that I can't wait for him any longer, that I'm hurt with everyday that he's not here, that I'm hurt with every week that I don't get letters from him, that I'm hurt whenever I think that things might be impossible for the two of us, that I might lose him... I JUST WANT HIM HERE..."

Yuri cursed to love fore a while. Why is it so painful? Why is it so complicated? Why does it have to make people cry? Why does it have to hurt? It's love and it's supposed to be the opposite, right?

Yuri massaged Jessica's back and pulled her closer. "I don't know what I can say to make you feel better and I'm sure if I can erase the pain and your problem-- but I just want you to know that I'll be here to listen, that I'll be here to face that problem with you, to feel that pain with you- that at least, you won't be alone."

She hugged her tighter, she could feel Jessica's crying wear out little by little. But now, a tear escaped from her own eyes. Her heart ached again, like any other day, but this time it was more painful-- she recalled a crying Soo, she recalled everything about them-- and hoped and wished once more, for the nth time, that she could just go back-- that she could go back and just make her stay.

......

And another thing that made her heart ache, was the clear idea in her mind that this Jessica can really be Soo.

......

'Thoughts'

Chapter Twenty-three

Mr. Hamster looked at the mirror. Nobody really knew about this job of 'his', and the sense of enjoyment that 'he' gets from it. Seeing those children smile, making them laugh, and being with them- really made 'him' feel less lonely and more fulfilled.

'He' remembered the afternoons, and that single night-- alone with Yoona-- how memorable and sweet it was. Those afternoons, turned from fun to extra fun because of Yoona. Through Yoona, this mascot felt that Yoona did not only know 'him' by the costume, but also by the person inside.

In that night, 'his' closed heart was suddenly opened by Yoona, and her sweet words. Never did 'he' feel this way- 'his' heart so fast, 'his' temperature so high, 'his' thoughts taken away by Yoona-- 'he' thinks 'he's' fallen in love for the first time.

But nonetheless, would Yoona accept the person inside Mr. Hamster? Would she still be the same when she finds out who Mr. Hamster is? Would she love Mr. Hamster whoever 'he' may be?

'He' put on his hamster head costume, and noticed that his red scarf costume was missing. Now, where did 'he' put it? It's been missing for days now. Anyway.

Mr. Hamster took a deep breath. 'He' is not ready to let her know... not yet.

'He' gently touched his chest- 'he's' ready to face a new day.

......

Yuri let go of the pen, and tilted her head backwards. She sighed and closed her eyes. The thought of a sulking Jessica kept occuring in her mind.

But it wasn't merely the 'crying' that caught her attention-- but rather, it was the 'way' she cried. She tilted her head forward, and rested her forhead on the study table.

She tried to think hard-- she thought harder. As much as it hurted for her, she thought of Soo. She recalled the way she cried that rainy afternoon at the treehouse- she recalled how Soo would laugh at her jokes, how she smiled, how she would deliver that cold face of hers-- how she talked... everything was just like Jessica's.

Yuri closed her eyes tighter- she felt her heart ache at the memory of her supposed first and last love-- Soo. She remembered herself giving the purple heart- 'S' initial necklace, how she wanted her to stay so badly. Upon remembering the word 'stay', Yuri's lips began to tremble, as she tried her best to stop the tears from falling. Why couldn't you stay?

Yuri thought of Soo. How her voice was really similar with the girl in the cubicle (at Club Limelight). It CAN be her, but it would be embarrassing to ask. She recalled the two of them talking- how she mentioned that she (Jessica) already as a special someone, who is FAR away. Suddenly, a weird thought occurred to-- but then again, she brushed it off.

If Jessica was Soo- then she would have noticed Yuri in the first place, and at the first day that they met. She knows that Soo is somehow scared of her, and that she's running away from her-- but if Soo was Jessica, then why didn't she do so? Why didn't recognize her? Did she forget her?

Mrs. Jung popped out of her mind. She said that Soo was outside the country. Was she playing around with her (Yuri)? If so, then still, if Jessica was Soo, then she would have noticed her beforehand.

Yuri shook her head and resumed to writing the letter. But then again, she let go of the pen- as she was once again distracted about Sooyeon and Jessica.

......

"Sunny bunny."

"Hmm?"

"Sunny... bunnyyyy..."

"Yes?"

"Mmmm..."

Sooyoung has been trying to distract Sunny from studying for the past 30 minutes now. She tried doing aegyo (cuteness), she tried pretending to be sick-- but Sunny's unbeatable concentration to her studies were just too strong.

"Sooyoung, you don't look good with aegyo." Sunny laughed, throwing her pen away. "Stop trying to distract me... I have to finish this thesis by tomorrow, so please..."

Sooyoung pouted, "Mmmf!"

Sunny laughed louder at the sight of a cute-pouting Sooyoung. Sooyoung wasn't really the 'aegyo' type of a person. She felt Sooyoung's chin on her shoulder, and her arms slowly making it's way around her waist. Sooyoung made a short-sexy sound. Sooyoung's back hug was the best, and it never failed to make Sunny feel... warm, loved and somehow...

...seduced.

Click HERE for rated part.

Sunny tilted her head backward. Sooyoung kissed her neck lightly as she slowly touched Sunny further bellow the abdomen. Sunny let out a short moan as she bit her lip-- as Sooyoung's hand made it's way between her legs.

"Just for a while." Sooyoung whispered between kisses. Sunny couldn't help but nod back- she couldn't talk back anymore.

She felt Sooyoung's tongue played its part into her ear. She moaned as it did. She felt the hot breath from Sooyoung's mouth, and gripped on the bed sheet as one of Sooyoung's hand slipped into her pants.

Sooyoung continued to kiss her neck hungrily, as Sunny's grip grew tighter with every second. She couldn't hold it in anymore, therefore, she turned around to push Sooyoung and jumped on top of her. Now she was in control.

She held onto Sooyoung 'naughty hands' and pinned them against the bed. She then leaned forward to kiss Sooyoung passionately, as their tongues played. Sooyoung moaned as Sunny bit her lower lip.

"I love you." she whispered, as Sunny kissed her neck. Sunny stopped, looked at her, and smiled.

"I love you too, but I'm sorry for what I'm going to do tonight."

Sooyoung giggled, "Oh yeah? Well, why would you be? I always win over you."

Sunny bit her ear, and laughed. "Eh? Well, not tonight Sooyoung..."

Sunny slowly made her way below Sooyoung's waist. She continued to satisfy Sooyoung as she gripped the sheets, trying to hold it in. Her body arched as she cried for Sunny's name. This night was going to be long.

......

Yoona took a deep breath and looked at the red scarf that Mr. Hamster wore. She didn't expect to find it there, not in her bestfriend's locker. She's been keeping the scarf for months now, and because of this scarf, she finally proved her long made theory right.

Who would've thought that Mr. Hamster was a girl? Who would've thought that this girl was just beside Yoona all along? Who wouldn've thought that Yoona would fall for both characters, the girl- and Mr. Hamster?

No matter- the important thing there is that she's in love with Mr. Hamster. But still, she will wait for her to reveal herself, to confess, and to finally be confident enough to admit (Mr. Hamster).

She will wait.

She smiled at the red scarf, and giggled to the thought that Mr. Hasmter was 'her' all along.

......

Mrs. Jung crossed her legs. She looked sternly at Mr. Song, and let out a sigh. She bit her lip, and crossed her arms as well.

"Are you positive?"

"Yes ma'am."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm sure. I've been seeing them."

Mrs. Jung put one of her hands on her forhead and combed her hair back. She never expected that something like this would come, that something like this was happening way before she was informed. She has to do something about it- as soon as possible.

......

'The Jungs'

Chapter Twenty-four

Jessica's POV.

A new life.

That's what mom told me- that I'm going to start a new life, gonna leave everything behind--

New look, new name, new school, new place, new people- everything new...

Except for one.

......

We transferred from the province into the city, and they got me into a prestigious school. Dad is outside the country, while mom worked from day till late at night for our company- that meant that I was alone.

I transferred to my own crib, and now I'm learning to be more independent- to adapt to everything. I met a lot of new friends, and before I knew it, almost everyone in school knew me. Still, I'm alone.

New look, new name, new school, new place, new people- everything new... except for one.

Junho.

......

Although Junho seemed new to me, his memories and love is already a part of me. Though he's far, his only a pump away from my heart. And when nights are cold, he kept me warm with the memories he's left, and the words he's written. I love him, no matter what. What more if he's physically here? I love him, and I WILL WAIT for him, cause he's worth it- we're worth it.

This scrapbook-- with four chapters- written on paper through a pencil but stamped across my heart through time and love.

I'm cold- but he makes me warm-- and through that, I've written the truth and my deepest feelings for him- long hidden (I don't know why) I regret, but who cares- it's always been there.

Yellow Rubber Boat... Under the Oak tree... Riding the Red Scooter... Inside the Treehouse... These four chapters are not merely memories, but they also support the ultimate truth of our love, of our part in each other's lives, HOW WE COMPLETE each other from the very start.

Since I pushed him away, since I ran away from him- I've made this scrapbook for him-- for him to know how I really feel, how special he really is- how I want and need him so much in my cold damp life- how much I've fallen and is constantly falling-

how much I truly love Junho.

......

A new life.

New look- from my brown hair, I've dyed it blond

New name- Jessica Jung. Junho's the only one who calls me Sooyeon, and I'd like it to stay that way.

New school, new place, new people...

New me. Everything new- except for one.

Junho.

......

Mrs. Jung's POV

Lee Jun Ho.

Business man, the heir of a big company in Asia. My daughter's future husband.

It's been years since that incident- tell me I'm bad but that incident relieved me. It supported my master plan.

Since she was young, I've planned her marriage for her- with a rich and successful family that complimented ours. She's wise, intelligent-- just like Jun Ho. She's beautiful, he's handsome- they complete each other.

I've planned on this for so long, but- one person got in the way.

I tried to ruin their friendship (that seemed more than that), I tried to keep her way, tried to kick her off-- but still, she'd come back to my Sooyeon. Sooyeon drifted away because of her, Sooyeon was dis-attached from my plan because of her-- she was going to ruin everything, my plans-- and Sooyeon's future.

But then- that incident happened. Although it caused great impact, I'm thankful for it. That incident erased her, and finally-- drove her away. Now, nothing's gonna ruin my plan.

BUT- it doesn't stop there. I won't let that 'girl' go easily. There must be-- a prize.

......

Hence, I told her that my Sooyeon doesn't want to see her anymore. She cried. I told her that Sooyeon doesn't want her anymore, that she wants her to go away. She cried harder. But-- it's all a LIE.

I let her choose between having no contact with her at all, or having contact but under one condition or circumstance. Of course, being her own desperate and hopeless self, she chose the first. Therefore, I said...

"You will make her fall for Jun ho, through writing letters in his name." I told her as she sulked.

Then, our deal began. I told her that my Sooyeon was out of the country for her studies, but again- this was A LIE- a lie said so she won't reach or find her (Sooyeon) anymore.

Why did I do this? I win either way. I get pay back for her almost ruining my plan-- through hurting her in the end. AND I get to have my Sooyeon fall for Jun ho in no time.

Isn't that nice?

But I'm also thankful for Yuri in some ways. For instance, for making Sooyeon write the scrapbook-- filled with her feelings and their memories. Also, for that pretty purple necklace of hers-- I'll give Jun Ho the credit, and in this way, my Sooyeon will fall harder for him.

Genius.

......

'Let Her Know'

Chapter Twenty-five

"Ahh! Taegoo!!!"

"Hahaha!"

"Ahhhh! Stop it! I can't take it anymore!"

"Eeeek!"

Taeyeon chased Tiffany around as she tried to trap her around her arms, tickling her. Sooyoung and Sunny just stared at them, with their jaws dropped.

Finally, Taeyeon caught her in her embrace and swayed her as she kissed her at the cheek. Tiffany giggled and kissed her back.

"I love you Taeyeon."

Taeyeon looked at her deeply, and smiled. Their stares were full of love (that I can't describe it anymore).

"Wha... Wait..." Sunny stammered, Sooyoung massaged her tummy as it growled. "I"m hungry, can we eat now?"

Tiffany laughed as she pushed Taeyeon jokingly-- pulling her then to the table. Taeyeon couldn't take her eyes off of Tiffany, that she stumbled before sitting.

......

"Sunny-ahh."

"Hmm?"

"When are you and Jessica gonna talk things over?"

Sunny sighed and scratched her head. Taeyeon didn't look away from her. "You know Jessica's condition right? And Junho's the only... the only memory that lives in her."

"How can he be alive in her memory if she doesn't even know him in the first place?" Sunny let out, "I mean, seriously, what gives her the right to judge me and Sooyoung, the ones who love the way we do? What gives her the right to even describe or know what love is when she never experienced the real thing in the first place? I know I hurt her, but she has to LEARN a lesson here."

Taeyeon groaned, "The least we can do is to understand her. But wait- she told us about her condition-- but if that's the case, then where the heck did this Junho come from? I mean- she wouldn't fall for this person if---"

"He doesn't exist." Sunny huffed, "He doesn't, okay?"

"What makes you say that? Are you even sure?"

"He's my cousin. Lee Jun Ho. The one Jessica's mother is talking about."

"Then he does exist?"

"He does, but not as the 'Junho' that Jessica knows."

Taeyeon crossed her arms, "Are you playing with me? I don't understand."

"My cousin Jun ho is not Jessica's Junho." Sunny started.

"They are totally different. Besides, Jun ho (my cousin) NEVER MET JESSICA in the first place- I know this because our family and Jessica's family are planning to get those two married. I didn't tell Jessica because I'm scared that she might get hurt... but what makes me think is the--- the scrapbook Jessica showed us, and-- and the purple necklace Jessica lost- where did those come from? My cousin doesn't even know about those stuff."

"So Jessica's mom lied to her?" Taeyeon answered swiftly, "I mean- she- improved Jun ho's place in Jessica's mind by making things up?"

Sunny nodded, "I'm guessing she did... but those material things (the scrapbook, necklace), I think Jessica's mom is not so desperate that she would bother making those herself, just for Jun ho's sake-- and the letters-- I don't know where they come from, but they're sure making a big impact on Jessica's attachment to Jun ho."

Taeyeon took a deep breath, "So, behind everything, there is a real Junho- but this real Junho is not the Jun ho who is a rich business man, who is not the long planned groom of Jessica, who is not Lee Jun ho, who is not the Junho that Jessica knows?"

Sunny nodded once more, "My cousin, Lee Jun ho, is not the Junho that Jessica knows."

Taeyeon looked up, her head was starting to ache because of the information overload. "So in short, this was all a lie? This is all unreal? Jessica's gonna get hurt in the end?"

Sunny felt the cold wind pass before them, as the sun finally kissed the horizon. As much as she didn't want to say 'yes', she said "Yes. It's all a lie. It's all unreal. Jessica's gonna get hurt."

Taeyeon punched the wall beside her, and growled, "How could a mother do that to her own daughter? That... that... tha rotten piece of--- aahh! How could she take advantage of Jessica's condition? I'm so gonna... I'm gonna..."

"But the scrapbook... the necklace... the letters... I'm guessing that they are all real-- like, they all trace to someone... someone maybe- close to Jessica before." Sunny said, still calm. Taeyeon stopped wrestling the plant beside her, and looked at Sunny. "Who?"

"My guess is..." Sunny whispered, "I mean, from the first time they met at that swimming pool incident, till now- their chemistry is just-- different. They became close way faster than it usually should be... it's as if they already knew each other from way back. And besides, my mom once mentioned that Mrs. Jung had a grudge on one of Jessica's close friends before."

"So, what are you trying to say? And who is this anyway?" Taeyeon excitingly said. Sunny sighed.

The wind didn't stop blowing, the sun finally sunk beneath the horizon. The sky turned from orange to dark blue now, and the night stars finally glittered above.

"Kwon Yuri is the Junho that Jessica knows."

......

This part is a flashback on the story itself.

She finally finished writing it, and later wrapping it. Now she had to give it to her.

She looked at the clock, it was almost 12:00 midnight-- almost Kwon Yuri's birthday.

It looked beautiful already, but it was never gonna be enough- never gonna be enough for the beauty that that person gave into her life.

This gift meant a lot to her- and she knows that it'll mean a lot to both of them soon after this person gets it.

She looked at the clock- an hour from now it'll be this person's birthday. She had to hurry, she has to be there on time.

The girl ran to her bike as she pushed the gift into her bag. It was very cold, but deep inside she felt warm. She felt warm because she has never been so sure of how she felt- she has never been so confident of herself, and she has never been so in love. The mere thought of the moments they shared brought warmth not only to her shivering self, but deep inside her heart as well. This person melted her- and that is one of the many reasons why she is in love.

As she ran the bike to the wet road, she smiled to herself while thinking of the person. She WAS scared to fall harder for this person- her thoughts and her heart were both blinded by fear, doubt, and confusion. She was pushing this person away.

But the sky that was once cloudy and dark- her mind and heart is now crystal clear. Her masked feelings cannot disguise or hide itself anymore. She's letting everything go, and she will now be true to herself. She doesn't care anymore- about what her family would think, about the world- and about when, why, and... how they fell for each other.

The only thing she cares about is who- and how the both of them feel for each other.

Kwon Yuri.

She drove the bike faster. Her heart pounded faster as she thought of this person and how the both of them were madly in love with each other from the start. She regretted being hesitant and doubtful of what or how she felt.

Of all the wrong decisions she had made, this was and will always be the first and right decision she had decided on. For the first time, she's gonna follow her heart.

This person brought a better side of her, and that is another reason why she is in love.

She brushed the hair off of her face and widened her smile.

"Kwon Yuri, this night will be the start of you and me."

She has to let her know, she has to- she knows that Yuri felt very bad since the treehouse confession she made- and she doesn't want that feeling to last.

She loves Yuri so much, so much that it's the only thing she cares about now, the only thing she wants, needs and longs for-- at this moment.

She cursed herself for leaving Yuri along- for not being there for her for weeks when she (Yuri) was down. She should have been there, she should have been there for her (Yuri), being best friends, they had to face this together.

It doesn't matter, after this confession, after giving this gift-- Jessica is sure that everything will be okay and that everything will be better. She just has to let her know.

She took a curve and her bike almost slipped, she regained balance quickly and took a deep breath.

"That was close." she smiled, "Yuri, wait for me, I'm coming."

End of flashback.

......

Yuri looked at the ceiling, her arms stretched at each side of the bed. She closed her eyes, as tears came rolling down her cheeks.

"I couldn't even say goodbye." Yuri whispered. The last time she saw her was at the tree house when she confessed- when they both cried- when she ran away from her and never came back. Since then she waited for her- she waited with pain, guilt and a little hope- but still, she never came back- instead, she moves on and agrees to love this Jun ho.

"Sooyeon... it's been so long... but the pain is still the same." She whispered, "No, it's getting worse."

......

Clarifications:

- Sunny knows about Mrs. Jung's plan (Jun ho and Jessica's fixed marriage). She also knows Lee Jun Ho.

- Taeyeon, Tiffany, Sunny and Hyoyeon are all aware of Jessica's condition.

- Yuri's last meeting with Soo (or Jessica) was at the tree house.

- It hurts even more for Yuri because she knows that Sooyeon has fallen for Junho (which was her in the first place) while she's still here, longing and crying for her. It hurts her even more, knowing that this Lee Jun ho will get the credit in the end, and that the only good thing she could get out of the deal is that she gets to communicate with Sooyeon- but still, Sooyeon thinks it's Jun ho.

Next chapter up tomorrow. I'm sorry for the late update- an emergency happened.

Anyway, I'd like to welcome the new readers, Synergy, soshi4ever1212, kgeraji, Snsd Kid, maknaeheart, Joedy~, Antasha ! - thanks for taking time to read.

And also, I'd like to thank the people who stayed up late to read the story- I really apreciate it.

In short, I'm really thankful to everyone. Really. Thank you for the positive feedback. Oh, and mind you, I was really scared after reading your comments for Mrs. Jung. Keke~

*oh, and KEii, I love you too. rofl.

Please wait for the next update. Take care! God bless! And I hope things are clearer now, keke~

'Letters'

Chapter Twenty-Six

All she has to do is to ask her. To ask her if the necklace belongs to her, if her lover's name is Jun ho, and lastly- if her other name is Sooyeon.

But still- if so- if Jessica owns the necklace, if her lover's name is Jun ho, if SHE IS SOOYEON- then, why can't she recognize her?

Did she forget her? Did she forget everything?

Yuri took a deep breath and munched on her donut, she sat on the bench and watched the kids play with Mr. Hamster. She brushed the thought away- of Sooyeon forgetting her. Even if they parted ways in an ugly way, knowing Sooyeon- she would never forget someone like Yuri. They've been friends for like, almost forever- and they've only been away from each other for two to three years- knowing Sooyeon, she would never forget Yuri.

Another thought that contradicted Yuri's theory is that- according to Mrs. Jung, Sooyeon's away from the country. But still- If Jessica was Sooyeon, then she would have noticed her in the first place. She would remember her.

Yuri bit the donut again, and looked up at the balloon that the kid let go. Staring at the ballon as it flew away, brought another pain into Yuri's already broken heart.

"Sooyeon, wherever you are, maybe you've already moved on." she thought, "Maybe, you already let me go."

She looked up at the balloon, "But still, did you hold onto me in the first place?"

She saw the kid crying as he watched his balloon fly away, Mr. Hamster approached him and gave him a new balloon, with that, he smiled and in an instant- he forgot about the older balloon.

Like the kid and his balloon, Sooyeon slipped out of Yuri's life. Everything was so fast. She went away, and like the balloon, she couldn't bring her back. It hurts to think that all you can do, while the balloon is flying away-- or in other words, when the person is slipping away-- is to cry and grieve hopelessly for her to come back- but then again, for Yuri- she (Sooyeon) couldn't come back to her. She (Yuri) couldn't bring her back.

"Why do kids move on so quickly..." Yuri whispered, as she watched the kid run around with his new balloon. Yuri couldn't move on- and she won't. She loves her so much that she doesn't care if she grieves or stays broken for the rest of her life. It's her, or nothing.

"Hey!"

Yuri snapped out of her sad self and wiped the tear that almost fell from her eyes. She was really hurt, her lips were trembling out of it, her heart aching as if it already wants to give in-- still, she has to stay strong.

"Jessica. Hey."

Jessica sat beside her and handed her an ice cream cone. "Are you crying? Are you alright?"

Yuri smiled, "No, I'm not. Umm- I should pay you for..."

"Don't. It's my treat." Jessica said, smiling back. "Are you sure? Do you want a balloon too?

Yuri laughed. "No silly."

"You've been staring at the children. I was watching you." Jessica said, "C'mon... spill..."

Yuri took another deep breath. She never shared anything about Sooyeon to anyone- not even with Sooyoung, Seohyun, or Yoona. She wanted to keep this painful and gloomy side of hers to herself- she didn't want anyone to feel sad for her in any way. But still--

"I miss someone."

Jessica sat straight. It's the first time that Yuri has said something like this, and this somewhat boosted Jessica's mood. "Who? Yuri you didn't tell me anything about your special someone!"

Yuri faked a smile, "Well. You never asked."

Jessica lightly slapped her shoulder and faced her. "So, where is he? What happened between you two?"

Yuri gulped at the word 'he'. She never told Jessica about this special someone being a 'she'-- she's scared that things might be uncomfortable between them.

So she lied.

"He... He's somewhere I don't know... and uhh- we kinda parted ways about 3 years ago, and he... he... I was... it was my fault... I was... I confessed and he-- he kinda ran away."

"He acts like a girl- hehe! Running away. No offense." Jessica joked, "Why'd he ran away? He must have a reason behind it. Didn't you guys talk about it?"

Yuri shook her head. "It's the last time we saw each other-- after that confession."

Jessica looked at Yuri, she looked as if she was gonna cry any time now. She figured that this memory was really a setback for Yuri- and that it was really painful for her.

"I... I just wish that... I just love her so much and I can't... I can't move on from it." Yuri said as tears fell from her eyes. She finally gave in- finally gave in from the pain that she was holding in- she couldn't fake it anymore-- she was deeply hurt.

"I-I just want to bring it all back... I want to- I want... I..." Yuri whimpered. She couldn't speak anymore- she couldn't go on. Jessica threw her a tight hug and patted her bag. "Her?"

Yuri held her breath as she just realized that she said 'her' instead of 'him' just now. "Him... I'm sorry I'm just..."

"It's okay." Jessica whispered, "Just let it out. It's bad to hold the pain in."

Yuri whimpered harder. She just wished that she could go back, that she could just snatch Sooyeon out of her mind and have her for real- she wished that Jessica was Sooyeon.

......

Yoona sat on a bench near the fountain and looked at Mr. Hamster from afar. "Seohyun, what made you take that job anyway?"

She smiled at Mr. Hamster. Mr. Hamster saw her, and skipped towards her, waving. Yoona giggled at the site of a dorky Mr. Hamster slash Seohyun. "Cute." she thought.

Mr. Hamster sat beside her and hugged her. Yoona blushed and hugged her back. "I missed you, where have you been?"

Mr. Hamster shook her head. Yoona already knew why she was away, but pretended to not know.

Late afternoon finally came as the both of them walked home. Mr. Hamster looked tired, but Yoona cheered her all the way.

"Thanks for the afternoon, Mr. Hamster." Yoona beamed, "Eat well, sleep well- and be healthy okay?"

Mr. Hamster just looked at her.

"Also, here's your red scarf." Yoona said handing the thing over, "Next time, be more careful, okay?"

Yoona waved back and ran into her house. Mr. Hamster just looked at her, and looked down on the scarf.

......

Seohyun took the hamster costume off after arriving her house. She heard her mom call for her from the kitchen, but she was too occupied to reply.

How did Yoona get the red scarf?

"Eat well, sleep well- and BE HEALTHY..." - Did she know that Mr. Hamster was her (Seohyun) all the while?

......

"I'm sorry about earlier."

"It's alright Yuri. I was shocked 'cause I never really saw that side of you. You're usually cheerful and all..."

Yuri couldn't help but smile back. They payed the waiter, took their stuff, and walked out of the restaurant.

"Well, I have to go. I have to work extra late at the coffee shop tonight. I was absent for three days you see, hehe!" Yuri said, as Jessica closed the door behind them.

Jessica looked at Yuri and pouted, "I wanted to hang out longer."

Yuri raised her eyebrows, "Really?"

"Yeah. Wait. Why were you absent?" Jessica said, "You're not sick are you?"

"Nah. I'm not." Yuri lied, but the truth was she was in pain for days now, physical and emotional pain. "I had to do some other stuff. Wait, do you wanna come with me?"

Jessica was a lazy person, but this time, she felt the want to hang out with Yuri longer. "Can I? I'm kinda alone you see so..."

"Great! I'll take the loneliness away! Haha!" Yuri said, punching the air. Jessica giggled at the site of a kiddy Yuri.

"Haha! Oh Yuri you're such a kid." Jessica giggled, "Wait, but before that, I have to drop these letters off somewhere. Can you wait for me here? It's just right across the street."

Yuri nodded, "What are those for?"

"For a friend," Jessica smiled, "You sure you can wait?"

"Yeah." Yuri answered. Jessica waved at her and swiftly walked across the street. Yuri was deep in thought now- "For a friend?" she recalled Jessica saying, "Who could that friend be..."

She watched Jessica and saw her enter the familiar looking building-- wait. It was not only familiar- but she's been there before!

Sooyeon's mother- Mrs. Jung, has her office located there! And it was where she'd drop of the letters for Soo. Yuri's heart pounded faster, could Jessica and Sooyeon really be... really be one?

Yuri touched her chest, her heart wanted to crawl out of her mouth now- it can't be, if Jessica was Soo, why didn't she recognize her?

Yuri sat on the sidewalk and continued thinking about it.

......

'Touch'

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Jessica carried the tray to one of the customers and gave them their coffee. She faked a smile and walked back to the counter. Yuri smiled at the sight of a lazy Jessica. She looked cute with the apron she wore-- but still, Yuri was disturbed.

She was afraid to ask Jessica if her lover's name was Junho- she's scared because if it is Junho, then it would be a lot harder- a lot more confusing- so many questions flew around her brain now-- why didn't she recognize her? Did Mrs. Jung fool her? Why?

Yuri crossed her arms and massaged her them. They hurted so much. She recalled Mr. Song and his men battering her without her knowing the reason. Her body ached but she ignored it.

"Yuri, what is that?"

She saw Jessica pointing at the bruise near her shoulder. She quickly covered it and laughed, "It's nothing. I just slipped. It's nothing severe."

"Yuri, are you sure you're alright?"

Yuri nodded, "Yeah, I'm okay. Really."

Jessica looked very worried, this time, not only that- she also looked like Sooyeon before. Yuri recalled the days when Sooyeon would always be there to help her when she gets into trouble- she missed her even more. She missed how she would touch her wounds, her bruises- and would already make her feel better with just that.

Jessica touched the bruise. Yuri felt Sooyeon's presence all of a sudden- and suddenly, she was so sure of the idea in her mind. Suddenly, she was courageous enough to finally ask her the question.

"What's his name?"

Jessica looked up at Yuri. "Hmmm?"

"Your friend... the one you send letters to... what's his name?"

"Yuri why do you look so serious?" Jessica laughed, "It's Jun ho. Lee Jun ho."

Suddenly, everything was silent.

......

Tiffany rode Taeyeon's back with her arms around her neck and her legs around her waist. They've been running around the field for a while now, and finally, Tiffany was cautious enough to see that Taeyeon was tired.

"Taengoo, I'm sorry- I was too caugh up in the moment." Tiffany said with a cute pout, Taeyeon pinched her cheek while panting.

"It's okay." she said between breaths, pretending that she wasn't tired. Tiffany eye-smiled and pushed her lightly at the forehead.

"Taengoo. I love you."

Although Tiffany has said for the nth time today, it still felt fresh and new every time she did so. She never got tired of it, and she will never be.

"I love you too."

The two kissed each other sweetly, and giggled right after.

"Tiff- I think... I think we need to help Jessica."

A clueless Tiffany looked at Taeyeon, "Why? What happened?"

"Sunny and I talked about it. This Jun ho guy, we think he's fake. We think Mrs. Jung's been lying all along."

Taeyeon shared the conversation she had with Sunny last week. Tiffany nodded and leaned back. "Well, as her friends, we really need to help her. But still-- let's make sure if that Jun ho is really fake and if Mrs. Jung is really up to something bad.."

Taeyeon nodded, "But Sunny's still mad about--"

"Let's both do the investigation."

"Wait, investigation?" Taeyeon said, scratching her head. By helping she never expected anything about investigating.

"Yeah. Like in movies-- when a bunch of friends would spy and investigate about the details-- just to make sure and to help their friend at the same time." Tiffany dreamingly explained, "Let's investigate about Mrs. Jung's said plan, about Jessica, that Yuri, and about this letter-guy Jun ho. Are you in?"

Although Taeyeon was actually scared, she nodded. "Sure! Why not? If you're in, then I'm in! Let's do this together!"

Tiffany smiled, leaned forward, and kissed her at the cheek. "Let's do this for Jessie."

......

'5th of December'

Chapter Twenty-Eight

This chapter is a flashback on the story.

She felt her breath shorten.

She felt the cold street against her skin. She wished for Yuri's warmth.

Everything was black. She couldn't see anything but Yuri's crying self.

She couldn't hear anything but the loud cry of her heart for Yuri's name.

She was numb all over, she was weak-- but she had to hold on.

Suddenly she was back at the scene at the treehouse- her lips almost met with Yuri's, as Yuri whispered the three words that she's been longing for all along--the three words that actually described the relationship between the two of them from the first time they met, till now-- the three words, that she was supposed to tell and prove to Yuri herself if it wasn't for this...

"I love you."

.......

Mrs. Jung looked down on Sooyeon's body. She was breathing but she was unconscious. The doctor said that her head part is severely damaged, including her brain. She's under coma.

Mrs. Jung didn't feel anything. But instead, she felt the advantage of finally getting rid of that Yuri. It's all her fault- why Sooyeon ran away, why Sooyeon's drifting away-- it's all her fault. She needs to be punished.

The nurse entered the room, carrying with her Sooyeon's bag. Mrs. Jung snatched it from her and opened it, revealing the gift that Sooyeon was suppose to give to Yuri.

She tore it open, the scrapbook dropped on the floor. She looked at it, and swiftly picked it up. She scanned through the pages and threw it on the sofa after realizing that it was a love confession. A supposed love confession rather.

Sooyeon was a different person because of this Yuri, and Mrs. Jung took this negatively. She sat beside Sooyeon, looked at her pale face- took a deep breath and finally came up with an idea after a few minutes.

.......

Yuri somehow felt the urge to wait for Sooyeon that night. It was her birthday after all, and she was sure that Sooyeon, although probably angered and confused-- would never forget about that. Through the years, the two have always been with each other, especially on their birthdays. This birthday, would probably be the first of the many days to come- that Sooyeon wouldn't be with her.

Yuri wiped the tear from her eye. She bit her lip and tried to hold it in. She's been crying for days now that tears didn't come out of her eyes anymore. She blinked twice, looked across the street, and finally accepted the fact that she was waiting for nothing all along.

.......

But she didn't know, that she was wrong.

.......

"Sooyeon."

Sooyeon finally opened her eyes. She felt heavy and weak, and her hands still trembled. She looked around- she looked outside, it was summer already.

She's been in a coma for a long time now, that December passed like it was only single day. She looked outside and the snow already melted off- the birds chirped and the trees danced as the hot air of summer welcomed her back to the real world.

"M...mom."

"It's alright Sooyeon, how are you feeling?" Her mom said, taking her glance away from the book she was reading. Sooyeon didn't know why, but she felt very empty. She felt new, she felt- different.

.......

"Amnesia."

The doctor leaned forward to Mrs. Jung, taking his spectacles off. "Her brain couldn't take the damage, and we- I'm sorry- couldn't reverse it. As we know, once the cells in the brain are damaged, you can never bring them back- there's no turning back."

Mrs. Jung didn't take her stare away from the doctor, "So, she forgot everything?"

"Luckily, only a few parts of her memory has been taken. She recognized you, right?"

Mrs. Jung nodded.

"Does she have friends, Mrs. Jung?"

Mrs. Jung shifted from her position. "Only a few."

"These memories will most likely be blurry to her. They may still be present, but it would be unclear to her. So I suggest that you would explain to her her condition, so that she would understand why she's feeling like that. If she wants to remember, then remind her of these memories- it would contribute a lot to her healing process or maybe even to her health itself." the doctor explained.

Mrs. Jung nodded, finally she's relieved-- everything else is going smoothly as planned. Sooyeon's perspective or view on her memories will depend on Mrs. Jung, and in that way- Mrs. Jung will be able to get rid of Yuri.

.......

Yuri sat inside the coffee shop and waited for Mrs. Jung. She's never been this nervous, and the thought of Mrs. Jung's unusual invitation made it worse. She took a sip of her milk shake and looked outside. Two friends caught her attention- she saw how the other one pushed the bike while the other laughed and raised her hands in the air. Yuri held her breath as she felt her heart ache again- but this time, it was a lot worse. She just wanted to see Sooyeon, to talk to her- and to be with her again.

"Sooyeon will be leaving for the States."

Yuri looked up at Mrs. Jung as she approached her from the door. "She will be studying there."

Yuri looked down as she felt the pain worsen. "C-can I meet her so I could at least say good--"

"She doesn't want to see you, in fact, I don't think she ever mentioned you." Mrs. Jung let out. Yuri touched her heart as her vision became blurry of the tears. She bit her lip again to stop herself from breaking.

"But don't worry Yuri, I will help you."

Yuri looked up at Mrs. Jung, "Help me?"

"I'll let you write to her." Mrs. Jung said, the smile on her lip widening. "That way, you'll be able to keep in touch with her- and still, somehow feel her with you."

Yuri clutched her fists as she felt her heart throb in pain. She ignored it. She didn't care about anything anymore, she just wanted Sooyeon.

She didn't know what Mrs. Jung was up to, and she knows that it's not good- but this time, she didn't care if she was gonna get hurt, or if it's gonna be worse for her-- but what's important for her is that she'll know how Sooyeon is, she'll be able to read from her, hear from her- and that if she's okay.

This was the only thing that mattered to Yuri now, despite the pain that's destroying her.

"I'll let you do that in one condition."

"W-What?" Yuri said, her voice trembling and her tears finally escaping from her will.

Mrs. Jung smiled. The smile looked mischievous, but Yuri didn't care still. She walked nearer, and put her hand on one of Yuri's shoulders. She leaned forward, and whispered the deal that started it all--

"You'll have to use another name."

.......

'Proof'

Chapter Twenty-nine (Part 1)

......

"That's her house? You're positive?"

"Yeah."

"You sure?"

"I've been her friend since the first day of college... Don't you trust me?!"

Taeyeon pushed Sooyoung aside and took a deep breath. Sooyoung looked at her furiously and smacked her head. "Yah! I'm doing you a favor here!"

"Will you two pipe it down?" Tiffany said under her hood, "You don't want to get caught!"

Tiffany and Taeyeon's plan for an investigation was actually serious- although it sounded the opposite when they planned it. They brought along Yoona and Sooyoung since the two are close to Yuri. Of course, before joining the 'mission', they oriented the two shikshins about Mrs. Jung, their theories about Yuri and Jessica, and this Lee Jun Ho.

After that orientation, Sooyoung and Yoona unhesitantly said 'yes' to it. Besides, being friends from both groups- they really have to help Yuri and Jessica.

......

"Okay, Mrs. Kwon is outta the building!" Sooyoung yelled out. Yoona cupped her mouth.

"It's not a building, it's a house." Taeyeon said as she fixed her scarf. Sooyoung couldn't help but groan.

"Okay, let's go!"

They tiptoed their way into the Kwon Recidence. Sooyoung bit her lip as she pushed the rusty gate open. It let out a squeaky sound that it made the dog next door bark. Tiffany yelped, hugging Taeyeon.

"Darn it!" Sooyoung screamed silently at the gate. Yoona pushed her in as Tiffany and Taeyeon followed them.

"How do we get in? It's locked!" Tiffany said as she tried to open the front door, "Don't tell me we have break in through the window."

"No! Don't do that. I have a--" before Sooyoung could finish, they heard footsteps from inside the house. They ran to one of the plants and tried to hide behind them. Sooyoung and Yoona were too obvious though, being tall.

"Hey! Kneel down!" Taeyeon called out, Sooyoung's eyebrows met.

"It's not my fault I'm taller than you!"

The heard the door open. Yoona and Sooyoung forced to hide themselves as Tiffany and Taeyeon got squeezed in.

"What are you all doing there?"

Sooyoung looked up and saw Yuri looking down at them.

"I saw you guys from across the street- is there something wrong?"

Sooyoung stood up and brushed the leaves off of her, so did the other three.

"Oh. Hehe. Uhh-- we were, we were-- sneaking away from the dog... hiding." Sooyoung said trying to look natural, the other three nodded in chorus. "You saw us all along?"

"Yeah." Yuri blankly said, "You guys wanna come in?"

......

The four (Sooyoung, Yoona, Tiffany and Taeyeon) sat around the dining table as Yuri walked to the kitchen to find something to cook. Tiffany leaned forward, covered her face and whispered--

"Okay, here's the plan. Sooyoung, you distract her, okay? Since your so good at it. Yoona you walk around the living room-- acting like you're just looking at their stuff but actually you're gonna be there to signal us if Sooyoung's distraction failed. Meanwhile, Taeyeon and I will go upstairs to check out Yuri's room. Understood?"

Tiffany said these all quickly that the three couldn't help but nod. "Just tell us that you want to spend time alone with Taeyeon already--" Sooyoung laughed, as she rested her elbow on the chair. Tiffany ignored her, pulled Taeyeon up-- and shouted,

"Yuri! Can we use the comfort room?"

"Sure!" Yuri yelled back, as she opened the fridge.

......

"Is this it?"

"Yes. Yes! C'mon hurry open it!"

They pushed the door open. They looked around at the messy room and finally figured that it was Yuri's room after they saw her school ID hanging on the door. Tiffany closed the door and went to look at Yuri's stuff. Taeyeon sat on the bed and just watched her.

"It's soft Fany..." she said in a seductive tone. Tiffany stopped, looked at her, and pouted.

"Help me!"

Taeyeon groaned and started to look around for 'evidence'.

"I guess Yuri lives alone with her mom." Tiffany said as she opened the drawers. Taeyeon nodded.

She leaned forward as she saw a couple of crampled papers on the floor near the trashcan. She knelt and picked one. She uncrampled it to read what's inside.

"Fany-ahh... I think... I think you should see this."

Tiffany ceased from scattering Yuri's belongings all over the place and walked to Taeyeon. She cupped her mouth as she saw what was written on the paper.

"S-Sunny... Sunny was right???"

From: Lee Jun Ho

To: Jung Sooyeon

"Wait, Sooyeon?" Taeyeon said, "Why Sooyeon? Is this Jessica?"

"Yeah, but Jun ho's the only one who calls her that." Tiffany heaved, "So Yuri IS Junho? I mean, why else would she have those letters here? 'cept when she's the mailman or something."

"Wait. This is not enough proof. Let's look for other stuff." Taeyeon said standing up. She grabbed a couple of papers and threw them into her shoulder bag. Tiffany resumed to what she was doing.

......

"What's taking them so long?" Yuri said, as she fried the vegetables. Sooyoung gulped and put her arm on Yuri's shoulder. "You know those two- they can't handle each other."

Yuri laughed. But still- she was too preoccupied about last night.

......

"Taeyeon look at this," Tiffany laughed as she discovered what seemed like Yuri's drawing. "It's so cute, and here's another one! She's so dorky!"

Taeyeon snorted, "I can draw better than that."

The cute jealous side of Taeyeon made Tiffany smile. She met her forehead with Taeyeon's.

"You jealous?"

"No, I'm just telling the truth."

Tiffany kissed her. She was surprised when Taeyeon pulled her in and didn't let go. They continued doing so, even after they fell on Yuri's bed.

......

"Yuri."

"Hmmm?"

Sooyoung gobbled on the food in front of her, swolled the lump on her throat- and said,

"Yuri, you said you were taken, right? Who is this person anyway? Don't get me wrong, I'm just curious 'cause you don't have other close friends besides me, Yoona and Seohyun... and if it's one of us, then that would be a mess, because you know-- I have Sunny, Yoona has... well, let's just say that Yoona and Seohyun somehow belong to each other."

Yuri sighed, her blank expression still written across her face. She never really told anyone about Sooyeon, but still-- it felt very heavy and hard, keeping it all to herself. Yuri has been blank and out of herself since last night's shocking realization. She wasn't really herself.

"Sooyeon."

Sooyoung sighed. "Darn it. It's not Jessica- but it's Sooyeon! So, Sunny was wrong?" she thought. Sooyoung was completely unaware of Jessica's other name.

"Oh, Sooyeon? A she?"

"Yes. I love her."

Sooyoung was shocked with the quick and firm reply that Yuri let out. She wasn't really like this. She has never been so straight-forward.

"W-Where--"

"She left me. It's my fault."

Sooyoung saw the sadness in Yuri's eyes. All of a sudden, she felt a pint of guilt inside for asking- or even reminding her (Yuri) of this, Sooyeon. "Yuri, I--"

......

Yuri ignored Sooyoung. She couldn't hear her anymore, but instead- Sooyeon's name kept repeating on her head, and as usual and still-- in her heart.

Jessica's name also lingered inside- this disturbed her once more.

Jessica and Sooyeon are very similar, in feeling- appearance and even by how they sound. Both Jessica and Sooyeon are 'Jungs', and Jessica's lover's name was Lee Jun Ho (the name she uses in her letters).

When she's with Jessica, her heart pounded the same way it did when she was with Sooyeon- all of a sudden, Sooyeon's black and white memory in her head was suddenly filled in with colors. In short- Jessica revived Sooyeon's memory.

Everything else connects to the fact that Jessica and Sooyeon are the same person-

...that the one she cried and grieved for, the one reason why her heart's constantly broken and put to whole at the same time, the reason why she's still stuck in the past, her one and only true love-- was Jessica all along.

But still- the same question flickers inside Yuri--

"Why doesn't she recognize me?"

......

'Proof'

Chapter Twenty-nine (Part 2)

"Seohyun! Hurry!"

"I'm tryin to!"

"Well, keep trying!"

"Hey! Don't rush her too much!"

Sooyoung and Yoona covered Seohyun as she tried to unlock the door to Jessica's room. Seohyun's hand shook as she kept thinking of the circumstances that could be if they broke in.

"My mom taught me to become a good child, not to be a burglar!" Seohyun hissed as she finally unlocked the door. Sooyoung jumped in joy while Yoona smiled.

"Wait, how do you know these stuff then?" Sooyoung wondered, Seohyun pulled the two into the room. They saw Tiffany sitting on Jessica's bed.

"You were there all along?" Sooyoung shouted, Tiffany just smiled back.

"Yeah, I told you that we'll be here--"

"Well, you should have opened the door for us then!" Sooyoung barked, Tiffany continued smiling. "I'm sorry Sooyoung, we were too busy."

Taeyeon came out of the bathroom, fixing her shirt. Upon seeing the tall three, she couldn't help but pretend that nothing happened.

"Arrgh! Even in other people's houses! Yesterday when we were at Yuri's, we almost got caught because of you two! Who the heck would be so thicked face to even make out in other people's pla--"

"Is this proof?" Seohyun said, as she pulled the scrapbook from Jessica's shelf. She opened the thing and scanned through the pages.

Sooyoung stopped her wailing and approached Seohyun. Yoona walked after her. Tiffany stood up and giggled at the site of an embarassed Taeyeon. She hugged her as Taeyeon blushed even more.

"It's all Jun ho." Seohyun said, "But I thought Jun ho was a fake?"

"That's what Sunny said. She told me that this Jun ho never knew Jessica in the first place." Sooyoung said, looking harder at the scrapbook, "So maybe, Jessica wrote this for- wait, did Jessica write this? 'cause it says Sooyeon."

"Sooyeon is Jessica's other name." Tiffany said, as Seohyun paced to the bed and took time to analyze it further. "Jun ho's the only who calls her that name though."

"Wait! SOOYEON!?" Sooyoung shouted, "But-but..."

"What?"

"Yuri told me yesterday that... Oh my g- so it's her! We've done it! We have enough proof!" Sooyoung wailed out louder.

"What do you mean?" Taeyeon said as she signalled her to calm down. Sooyoung ignored her and kept jumping around.

"The letters you saw yesterday at Yuri's house, Yuri saying that she's taken by this 'Sooyeon' (which you just confirmed to be Jessica)-- everything else is connected! They've been writing for each other all along! Sunny was right! She's a genius! Yuri is the Jun ho that Jessica knows all along!"

Tiffany and Taeyeon abosorbed the information and were finally shocked. Yoona just looked at Seohyun as she continued to analyze the scrapbook.

"So... all the material things that Jun ho left-- was for and from Yuri?" Tiffany said, "The necklace, the purple one-- the one Jessica told us about (-Taeyeon nodded---)-- it was from Yuri, I guess?"

"In short, the Jun ho in Jessica's mind is actually our Kwon Yuri." Yoona confirmed, Sooyoung nodded in agreement. "Since according to Sunny, Jun ho never knew Jessica."

"So Jessica's mom lied to her?"

"I guess she did, maybe she wanted to get rid of Yuri because of Lee Jun ho--"

"Or maybe, Jessica has a twin--"

"That's not even possible!"

"I'm hungry."

"This is all confusing!" Taeyeon blurted out, "My head hurts. Can't we just ask them directly ourselves? That way, things will be straight-forward."

"Guys, I think you need to see this."

They stopped talking and approached Seohyun. Seohyun took a deep breath and gave them the scrapbook. "Take a look on the chapters..."

Sooyoung snatched the scrapbook from Seohyun and read them. Her eyebrows met as she did.

"Yellow rubber boat... Under the oak tree... Riding our red scooter... Inside the-- what is this? This is all weird." Sooyoung barked, Seohyun shook her head and stood up.

"Look at them closely."

"Can you just tell us? I'm hungry." Sooyoung said, passing the scrapbook to Tiffany. Taeyeon stopped tiptoe-ing.

"Yuri." Seohyun whispered.

Yoona and Sooyoung blinked. "Is it me or did you just call for Yuri? Can you be any weirder."

"Yuri. It is for Yuri."

"How can you confirm--"

"The thing, it's written in pencil and therefore, it is editable. Sooyeon, or Jessica- said something about a red scooter- Yuri rides a red scooter, remember? Also, she mentioned that this Jun ho delivered boxes of milk and soya for a living- that's Yuri's other job, right?"

"Not only that, the very intriguing evidence is the last line in the scrapbook, that says-- I don't know if it's a coincidence, but these for chapters literally reveal the same name that my heart beats for. I don't know if it's a coincidence, but I'm sure it's destiny.--- take note on the word, 'literally'... read the chapter titles then."

"What?" Sooyoung was completely clueless. Yoona approached Tiffany and Taeyeon and analyzed the chapters as well. This was basically why they brought Seohyun along, she was really good at analyzing and observing.

"You actually read everything she wrote?" Sooyoung let out. Seohyun just smiled.

"You're right Seohyun." Tiffany said in disbelief, "Oh my gosh- this is just..."

"What?" Sooyoung growled, "Tell me!"

"It says Yuri. The four chapters."

"How?"

"The initials."

Sooyoung covered her mouth as she read Y-U-R-I on the chapter titles. She felt the hair on her back stand as she read the last line, and the four chapters all over again. This scrapbook was romantic and was genius- but at the same time, just plain freaky.

......

"My... Sunny must be really smart. I mean, I wouldn't think that it was Yuri if it wasn't for this spying thing we've done." Sooyoung boasted as they walked towards the car, "I wonder... how'd she know about it without seeing the evidence itself-- hmm."

"A wild guess, I guess?" Yoona smiled, "Or maybe she knew it beforehand--"

"What?" Sooyoung said in a jiffy, "If she did, she would have told me-- since Yuri's my friend and I'm her girlfriend."

Yoona shrugged her shoulders, and poked Seohyun. Seohyun, who looked very tired now, turned to look at her. "What?"

Yoona grinned at her, "Nothing, I just wanted to hear your voice. Nyahaha~"

Seohyun looked away- "I think she knows already."

Sooyoung jumped into the car. "What if Sunny knew it all along, and she was just hiding it from her? No, she would've told me."- she thought. She started the engine, took a deep breath and looked at the horizon-- now that they've found proof, the next question is-- what are they gonna do about it? And how and when? Sooyoung stepped on it, and firmly said-

"Yoona, Seohyun... we have to tell Yuri."

......

'Proof'

Chapter Twenty-nine (Part 1)

......

"That's her house? You're positive?"

"Yeah."

"You sure?"

"I've been her friend since the first day of college... Don't you trust me?!"

Taeyeon pushed Sooyoung aside and took a deep breath. Sooyoung looked at her furiously and smacked her head. "Yah! I'm doing you a favor here!"

"Will you two pipe it down?" Tiffany said under her hood, "You don't want to get caught!"

Tiffany and Taeyeon's plan for an investigation was actually serious- although it sounded the opposite when they planned it. They brought along Yoona and Sooyoung since the two are close to Yuri. Of course, before joining the 'mission', they oriented the two shikshins about Mrs. Jung, their theories about Yuri and Jessica, and this Lee Jun Ho.

After that orientation, Sooyoung and Yoona unhesitantly said 'yes' to it. Besides, being friends from both groups- they really have to help Yuri and Jessica.

......

"Okay, Mrs. Kwon is outta the building!" Sooyoung yelled out. Yoona cupped her mouth.

"It's not a building, it's a house." Taeyeon said as she fixed her scarf. Sooyoung couldn't help but groan.

"Okay, let's go!"

They tiptoed their way into the Kwon Recidence. Sooyoung bit her lip as she pushed the rusty gate open. It let out a squeaky sound that it made the dog next door bark. Tiffany yelped, hugging Taeyeon.

"Darn it!" Sooyoung screamed silently at the gate. Yoona pushed her in as Tiffany and Taeyeon followed them.

"How do we get in? It's locked!" Tiffany said as she tried to open the front door, "Don't tell me we have break in through the window."

"No! Don't do that. I have a--" before Sooyoung could finish, they heard footsteps from inside the house. They ran to one of the plants and tried to hide behind them. Sooyoung and Yoona were too obvious though, being tall.

"Hey! Kneel down!" Taeyeon called out, Sooyoung's eyebrows met.

"It's not my fault I'm taller than you!"

The heard the door open. Yoona and Sooyoung forced to hide themselves as Tiffany and Taeyeon got squeezed in.

"What are you all doing there?"

Sooyoung looked up and saw Yuri looking down at them.

"I saw you guys from across the street- is there something wrong?"

Sooyoung stood up and brushed the leaves off of her, so did the other three.

"Oh. Hehe. Uhh-- we were, we were-- sneaking away from the dog... hiding." Sooyoung said trying to look natural, the other three nodded in chorus. "You saw us all along?"

"Yeah." Yuri blankly said, "You guys wanna come in?"

......

The four (Sooyoung, Yoona, Tiffany and Taeyeon) sat around the dining table as Yuri walked to the kitchen to find something to cook. Tiffany leaned forward, covered her face and whispered--

"Okay, here's the plan. Sooyoung, you distract her, okay? Since your so good at it. Yoona you walk around the living room-- acting like you're just looking at their stuff but actually you're gonna be there to signal us if Sooyoung's distraction failed. Meanwhile, Taeyeon and I will go upstairs to check out Yuri's room. Understood?"

Tiffany said these all quickly that the three couldn't help but nod. "Just tell us that you want to spend time alone with Taeyeon already--" Sooyoung laughed, as she rested her elbow on the chair. Tiffany ignored her, pulled Taeyeon up-- and shouted,

"Yuri! Can we use the comfort room?"

"Sure!" Yuri yelled back, as she opened the fridge.

......

"Is this it?"

"Yes. Yes! C'mon hurry open it!"

They pushed the door open. They looked around at the messy room and finally figured that it was Yuri's room after they saw her school ID hanging on the door. Tiffany closed the door and went to look at Yuri's stuff. Taeyeon sat on the bed and just watched her.

"It's soft Fany..." she said in a seductive tone. Tiffany stopped, looked at her, and pouted.

"Help me!"

Taeyeon groaned and started to look around for 'evidence'.

"I guess Yuri lives alone with her mom." Tiffany said as she opened the drawers. Taeyeon nodded.

She leaned forward as she saw a couple of crampled papers on the floor near the trashcan. She knelt and picked one. She uncrampled it to read what's inside.

"Fany-ahh... I think... I think you should see this."

Tiffany ceased from scattering Yuri's belongings all over the place and walked to Taeyeon. She cupped her mouth as she saw what was written on the paper.

"S-Sunny... Sunny was right???"

From: Lee Jun Ho

To: Jung Sooyeon

"Wait, Sooyeon?" Taeyeon said, "Why Sooyeon? Is this Jessica?"

"Yeah, but Jun ho's the only one who calls her that." Tiffany heaved, "So Yuri IS Junho? I mean, why else would she have those letters here? 'cept when she's the mailman or something."

"Wait. This is not enough proof. Let's look for other stuff." Taeyeon said standing up. She grabbed a couple of papers and threw them into her shoulder bag. Tiffany resumed to what she was doing.

......

"What's taking them so long?" Yuri said, as she fried the vegetables. Sooyoung gulped and put her arm on Yuri's shoulder. "You know those two- they can't handle each other."

Yuri laughed. But still- she was too preoccupied about last night.

......

"Taeyeon look at this," Tiffany laughed as she discovered what seemed like Yuri's drawing. "It's so cute, and here's another one! She's so dorky!"

Taeyeon snorted, "I can draw better than that."

The cute jealous side of Taeyeon made Tiffany smile. She met her forehead with Taeyeon's.

"You jealous?"

"No, I'm just telling the truth."

Tiffany kissed her. She was surprised when Taeyeon pulled her in and didn't let go. They continued doing so, even after they fell on Yuri's bed.

......

"Yuri."

"Hmmm?"

Sooyoung gobbled on the food in front of her, swolled the lump on her throat- and said,

"Yuri, you said you were taken, right? Who is this person anyway? Don't get me wrong, I'm just curious 'cause you don't have other close friends besides me, Yoona and Seohyun... and if it's one of us, then that would be a mess, because you know-- I have Sunny, Yoona has... well, let's just say that Yoona and Seohyun somehow belong to each other."

Yuri sighed, her blank expression still written across her face. She never really told anyone about Sooyeon, but still-- it felt very heavy and hard, keeping it all to herself. Yuri has been blank and out of herself since last night's shocking realization. She wasn't really herself.

"Sooyeon."

Sooyoung sighed. "Darn it. It's not Jessica- but it's Sooyeon! So, Sunny was wrong?" she thought. Sooyoung was completely unaware of Jessica's other name.

"Oh, Sooyeon? A she?"

"Yes. I love her."

Sooyoung was shocked with the quick and firm reply that Yuri let out. She wasn't really like this. She has never been so straight-forward.

"W-Where--"

"She left me. It's my fault."

Sooyoung saw the sadness in Yuri's eyes. All of a sudden, she felt a pint of guilt inside for asking- or even reminding her (Yuri) of this, Sooyeon. "Yuri, I--"

......

Yuri ignored Sooyoung. She couldn't hear her anymore, but instead- Sooyeon's name kept repeating on her head, and as usual and still-- in her heart.

Jessica's name also lingered inside- this disturbed her once more.

Jessica and Sooyeon are very similar, in feeling- appearance and even by how they sound. Both Jessica and Sooyeon are 'Jungs', and Jessica's lover's name was Lee Jun Ho (the name she uses in her letters).

When she's with Jessica, her heart pounded the same way it did when she was with Sooyeon- all of a sudden, Sooyeon's black and white memory in her head was suddenly filled in with colors. In short- Jessica revived Sooyeon's memory.

Everything else connects to the fact that Jessica and Sooyeon are the same person-

...that the one she cried and grieved for, the one reason why her heart's constantly broken and put to whole at the same time, the reason why she's still stuck in the past, her one and only true love-- was Jessica all along.

But still- the same question flickers inside Yuri--

"Why doesn't she recognize me?"

......

'Proof'

Chapter Twenty-nine (Part 2)

"Seohyun! Hurry!"

"I'm tryin to!"

"Well, keep trying!"

"Hey! Don't rush her too much!"

Sooyoung and Yoona covered Seohyun as she tried to unlock the door to Jessica's room. Seohyun's hand shook as she kept thinking of the circumstances that could be if they broke in.

"My mom taught me to become a good child, not to be a burglar!" Seohyun hissed as she finally unlocked the door. Sooyoung jumped in joy while Yoona smiled.

"Wait, how do you know these stuff then?" Sooyoung wondered, Seohyun pulled the two into the room. They saw Tiffany sitting on Jessica's bed.

"You were there all along?" Sooyoung shouted, Tiffany just smiled back.

"Yeah, I told you that we'll be here--"

"Well, you should have opened the door for us then!" Sooyoung barked, Tiffany continued smiling. "I'm sorry Sooyoung, we were too busy."

Taeyeon came out of the bathroom, fixing her shirt. Upon seeing the tall three, she couldn't help but pretend that nothing happened.

"Arrgh! Even in other people's houses! Yesterday when we were at Yuri's, we almost got caught because of you two! Who the heck would be so thicked face to even make out in other people's pla--"

"Is this proof?" Seohyun said, as she pulled the scrapbook from Jessica's shelf. She opened the thing and scanned through the pages.

Sooyoung stopped her wailing and approached Seohyun. Yoona walked after her. Tiffany stood up and giggled at the site of an embarassed Taeyeon. She hugged her as Taeyeon blushed even more.

"It's all Jun ho." Seohyun said, "But I thought Jun ho was a fake?"

"That's what Sunny said. She told me that this Jun ho never knew Jessica in the first place." Sooyoung said, looking harder at the scrapbook, "So maybe, Jessica wrote this for- wait, did Jessica write this? 'cause it says Sooyeon."

"Sooyeon is Jessica's other name." Tiffany said, as Seohyun paced to the bed and took time to analyze it further. "Jun ho's the only who calls her that name though."

"Wait! SOOYEON!?" Sooyoung shouted, "But-but..."

"What?"

"Yuri told me yesterday that... Oh my g- so it's her! We've done it! We have enough proof!" Sooyoung wailed out louder.

"What do you mean?" Taeyeon said as she signalled her to calm down. Sooyoung ignored her and kept jumping around.

"The letters you saw yesterday at Yuri's house, Yuri saying that she's taken by this 'Sooyeon' (which you just confirmed to be Jessica)-- everything else is connected! They've been writing for each other all along! Sunny was right! She's a genius! Yuri is the Jun ho that Jessica knows all along!"

Tiffany and Taeyeon abosorbed the information and were finally shocked. Yoona just looked at Seohyun as she continued to analyze the scrapbook.

"So... all the material things that Jun ho left-- was for and from Yuri?" Tiffany said, "The necklace, the purple one-- the one Jessica told us about (-Taeyeon nodded---)-- it was from Yuri, I guess?"

"In short, the Jun ho in Jessica's mind is actually our Kwon Yuri." Yoona confirmed, Sooyoung nodded in agreement. "Since according to Sunny, Jun ho never knew Jessica."

"So Jessica's mom lied to her?"

"I guess she did, maybe she wanted to get rid of Yuri because of Lee Jun ho--"

"Or maybe, Jessica has a twin--"

"That's not even possible!"

"I'm hungry."

"This is all confusing!" Taeyeon blurted out, "My head hurts. Can't we just ask them directly ourselves? That way, things will be straight-forward."

"Guys, I think you need to see this."

They stopped talking and approached Seohyun. Seohyun took a deep breath and gave them the scrapbook. "Take a look on the chapters..."

Sooyoung snatched the scrapbook from Seohyun and read them. Her eyebrows met as she did.

"Yellow rubber boat... Under the oak tree... Riding our red scooter... Inside the-- what is this? This is all weird." Sooyoung barked, Seohyun shook her head and stood up.

"Look at them closely."

"Can you just tell us? I'm hungry." Sooyoung said, passing the scrapbook to Tiffany. Taeyeon stopped tiptoe-ing.

"Yuri." Seohyun whispered.

Yoona and Sooyoung blinked. "Is it me or did you just call for Yuri? Can you be any weirder."

"Yuri. It is for Yuri."

"How can you confirm--"

"The thing, it's written in pencil and therefore, it is editable. Sooyeon, or Jessica- said something about a red scooter- Yuri rides a red scooter, remember? Also, she mentioned that this Jun ho delivered boxes of milk and soya for a living- that's Yuri's other job, right?"

"Not only that, the very intriguing evidence is the last line in the scrapbook, that says-- I don't know if it's a coincidence, but these for chapters literally reveal the same name that my heart beats for. I don't know if it's a coincidence, but I'm sure it's destiny.--- take note on the word, 'literally'... read the chapter titles then."

"What?" Sooyoung was completely clueless. Yoona approached Tiffany and Taeyeon and analyzed the chapters as well. This was basically why they brought Seohyun along, she was really good at analyzing and observing.

"You actually read everything she wrote?" Sooyoung let out. Seohyun just smiled.

"You're right Seohyun." Tiffany said in disbelief, "Oh my gosh- this is just..."

"What?" Sooyoung growled, "Tell me!"

"It says Yuri. The four chapters."

"How?"

"The initials."

Sooyoung covered her mouth as she read Y-U-R-I on the chapter titles. She felt the hair on her back stand as she read the last line, and the four chapters all over again. This scrapbook was romantic and was genius- but at the same time, just plain freaky.

......

"My... Sunny must be really smart. I mean, I wouldn't think that it was Yuri if it wasn't for this spying thing we've done." Sooyoung boasted as they walked towards the car, "I wonder... how'd she know about it without seeing the evidence itself-- hmm."

"A wild guess, I guess?" Yoona smiled, "Or maybe she knew it beforehand--"

"What?" Sooyoung said in a jiffy, "If she did, she would have told me-- since Yuri's my friend and I'm her girlfriend."

Yoona shrugged her shoulders, and poked Seohyun. Seohyun, who looked very tired now, turned to look at her. "What?"

Yoona grinned at her, "Nothing, I just wanted to hear your voice. Nyahaha~"

Seohyun looked away- "I think she knows already."

Sooyoung jumped into the car. "What if Sunny knew it all along, and she was just hiding it from her? No, she would've told me."- she thought. She started the engine, took a deep breath and looked at the horizon-- now that they've found proof, the next question is-- what are they gonna do about it? And how and when? Sooyoung stepped on it, and firmly said-

"Yoona, Seohyun... we have to tell Yuri."

......

'The Truth'

Chapter Thirty

"Yuri."

"Yes?"

"Are you okay?"

"Yes."

Yuri opened the bag of chips as Jessica watched the soccer players run about. Yuri has been silent lately, and Jessica wasn't used to this.

"You miss him?"

Yuri turned to look at Jessica, if only she knew.

"So much."

Jessica took Yuri's hand, and rested it on her cheek. "Yuri-ahh... We're at the same position."

Yuri didn't know why, but she just wanted to run away. She wanted to cry, to break down- but she must stay strong. Besides, she was so sure now that Jessica and Sooyeon were the same person, and that she's been writing to her as Jun ho for while now. But why-- why doesn't she recognize her? She has to know.

"Jessica."

"Yep?"

Yuri swolled the lump on her throat, "Jessica, do you mind if we talk about this Jun ho of yours? So that we could have something to talk about."

"Sure, why not?" Jessica replied cheerfully.

Yuri didn't know how to talk or to even act around Jessica anymore. She's Sooyeon, the Sooyeon she misses, she longs for, she cried and wrote to-- the reason why she's so stuck at the past-- it's Jessica, it's her all along. But still, she has to make sure- and she has to ask questions to be able to do so.

"H-How did you meet?" She forcefully asked. Her heart was pounding so strong that it felt like it was gonna blow out of her chest.

"Jun ho? Well... I was kinda... I was still small, and-- and he kinda saved me from drowning. Since then, we became friends." Jessica shared. Yuri bit her lower lip- but she has to ask more.

"How do you guys spend time together? I mean, before."

"We'd go for walks- and later when he found a job as a delivery guy, we'd ride around his scooter. He'd take me to different places and so... oh, and I remember going to this treehouse with him."

"When was the last time you met?"

Jessica paused at the question. She looked at Yuri, blinked twice, and laughed. "You ask weird questions. Sadly- we didn't really have a proper goodbye. I kinda ran away from him and-- that's it. But still, what's important is that we're still attached through the letters we write, and of course, throught the memories we've spent."

Yuri wanted to shout- to cry- to just pull Jessica to her embrace and tell her that she's the one they're talking about. She just wanted to tell her how sorry she was, how much she wanted her back- and how much she's in pain right now.

Yuri tried to look as emotionless as possible. She observed the smile across Jessica's face- she didn't want to wipe it out.

"That's great. How did you guys get attached?"

"My mom set us up."

Yuri gripped her skirt. Now she's reminded about Mrs. Jung's deal. She told her that Sooyeon (or now confirmed to be, Jessica) is out at the States- but why was she here?

Come to think of it, she did want to get rid of Yuri. She never really liked her- Yuri thought. After analyzing her thoughts, the events, EVERYTHING-- Yuri said to herself, "She set me up. This was all a lie."

"What?"

"Nothing." Yuri quickly answered. A mixture of sadness, hatred, and anger raged inside her. She just wanted to go to Mrs. Jung, and ask her about everything. And if Yuri was right about Jessica and Sooyeon, she would kill her for fooling them, for playing with their feelings- for getting in the way of everything.

"But I'm really thankful for Jun ho." Jessica whispered, "I mean- He's everything I'm not. He's cheerful, he has a good view in life, he's positive, he's funny, he's warm... we complete each other."

Yuri's rage was suddenly calmed.

"I love him, no matter what. And I regret leaving him behind at that treehouse. I just..."

Yuri felt her lips tremble. Now the pain was getting worse. "What's happening here?"

"I could have told him, I could have- I could said sorry... I could have hugged the guilt away from him... but... if it wasn't for that accident..."

"Accident?" Yuri said as she begged for the idea in her mind to disappear. "What-- What accident?"

"I was on my way to give him my present." Jessica recalled, "But... I got in an accident... and so... I never had the chance to give it to him. I was too late. I suffered amnesia, but it wasn't that severe. I was able to recall with my mother's help, and- besides, my heart never forgot about us. So... Wait, Yuri? Are you okay?"

Yuri didn't feel anything- except for the burning pain in her heart, and the tear that escaped from her already worn out eyes.

Mrs. Jung set me up. She made me use this name 'Lee Ju n ho' and now I'm replaced by him in Sooyeon's memory. So that means- the time I saved her, the afternoons under the oak tree, the rides on my red scooter, the treehouse incident-- Jessica thinks that it's him?

But- above all... Sooyeon remembered everything we did, and how I was-- but what hurts the most is that she doesn't know that it's me, that's it's Kwon Yuri.

Mrs. Jung lied to her, she lied to me. That witch.

Yuri has to do something about this.

......

"Sunny you were right about Jessica and Yuri."

Sunny put the book she was reading on the library table and raised her eyebrows. "Ehh?"

"We investigated everything, and all the evidence support your theory." Taeyeon said, "Whoa, you're really smart."

Sunny laughed. "Taeyeon, I'm not. I knew about this."

Taeyeon leaned forward, "WHAT? YOU KNEW?"

Sunny cupped Taeyeon's mouth. They saw a couple of students turn their heads to their direction, while the librarian signalled them to 'hush'. Sunny looked around to make sure that no one else was listening.

"My mom and Mrs. Jung are good friends. My mom told me about this, about Yuri-- about Sooyeon or Jessica-- my cousin Jun ho--the accident..."

"Wait, why didn't you tell us?"

"Because... Wait, I tried to tell Jessica! I told her that this Jun ho never existed."

"But it was out of anger, you shouldn've told US."

"She would never believe! And you guys didn't know Yuri at that time. I'm the one who's getting pinned here! And besides--"

"Sunny."

Sunny stopped talking as soon as she recognized the voice. She closed her eyes, and begged that it was not her.

Sooyoung, who was hiding behind the shelf all along, dropped the bouqet of flowers she was holding as she revealed herself. She swiftly turned away and stormed out of the library. Sunny stood up and called after her.

"Gahh. This is all a drag." Taeyeon complained, "How did I get myself into this drama."

......

'Doubt'

Chapter Thirty-one

Jessica screeched in pain. She grasped her hair and slouched as the pain irrupted again and again. Tears shed out of her eyes as she closed them tightly- her lips trembled as the pain irrupted still. Her head felt like it was being squished into pieces.

She lay on the bed and panted--

All of a sudden, she saw the beach where Junho used to take her- she was riding. She heard them laugh together--

A sudden flash took her to another memory- she was running around the rain- the memory shifted once more- and she felt herself being lifted from the waters---

She recalled the three memories-- suddenly she was back at the beach scene, where Junho and her rode his red scooter- but- she saw someone different...

she saw a girl driving the scooter.

She screamed and turned to the other side of the bed, she swallowed the lump on her throat- breathe harder and hoped that the pain would end.

......

"I know."

Yoona and Seohyun looked at Yuri. Her lips were still, but the expression on her eyes clearly stated that she was in pain.

"I know that it's Sooyeon, I know that Jessica and Sooyeon are one."

Yoona leaned forward, Seohyun slouched backward- they didn't know what to say anymore.

"Yuri, tell Jessica."

"I can't."

"Why?"

"It's hard."

"That's not even an--"

"I can't! Okay?! I don't want to hurt her, I don't want ruin what we have-- I don't want-"

"Hiding it from her will hurt her more." Seohyun finally interuptted, "Saying that it's hard is not an excuse Yuri- you said that you love her, then- you should take the risks and brush the fear aside and just tell her! Fight for yourself, for Jessica- for your love. Instead of leaving it this way, do something and save her! Tell her!"

Yoona smiled at Seohyun, "look who's talking? You can't even tell me that you're Mr. hamster, keke~" Yoona thought. Seohyun took a deep breath and crossed her arms.

Yuri looked down on the floor. Tears began to drop from her eyes again, as she bit her lip.

"It-I want to fight for us... I want to be strong... I want to tell her as much as you do... I want to... I want to save her-- but I couldn't... and I can't... I just-- I just can't." she stammered between breaths, "I don't know what to do. I'm confused- you don't know how hard my heart is breaking, how hard this situation is for me-- I'm just..."

"What we're trying to say here is that you should cut the drama, and start working!"

They looked around and glared at Sooyoung (who was standing at the doorway).

"Stop crying- that's what you've been doing since forever. For once, just-- just fight and go ahead and take what's yours--- Jessica!"

Yoona and Seohyun nodded in agreement, while Yuri remained in her state.

Yuri stood up and wiped her tears.

She thought of Soo- she thought of Jessica-- she thought of the memories they've had, everything they've wanted-- Mrs. Jung took it all away. She thought of what Mrs. Jung did, she thought of Jessica's accident-- in an instant, she was motivated to fight. She clutched her fists and gritted her teeth at the sight of Mrs. Jung-- in the first place, Yuri wasn't trouble, she wasn't ruining Jessica-- but instead, it's Mrs. Jung who needs to take the blame for everything, for all the pain she's going through, for Jessica--for EVERYTHING. Yuri wasn't getting in the way of anything- but instead, Mrs. Jung was.

Yuri took a deep breath, let out a loud exhalation, and for the first time after three years-- strongly and firmly said,

"Mrs. Jung MUST PAY."

......

Mr. Jung smiled as he watched his clock. Thirty minutes from now he will finally meet his daughter once more. He really missed Jessica- and in fact, generally-- he really loves her. He fixed his shirt and smiled again--

"I wonder how my daughter is doing."

The airplane landed on the airport, Mr. Jung stood up grabbed his bag.

......

Jessica opened her eyes. The pain finally disappeared. It will be back soon, but Jessica was still glad that it wore off for now. She sat up and recalled her vision--

"who was that girl?

She stood up and approached the shelf again. She pulled out the scrapbook-- suddenly, she felt empty again. She didn't feel the fullness that usually occurred to her whenever she would touch the book. Was there really a 'Junho'? Was it really 'Junho'?

She thought of Yuri. She remembered how Yuri saved her from the pool, how it actually felt being with her-- it was somehow, familiar. She shook her head, and laughed to herself-- ''Silly, it can't be Yuri."

She thought of her mom- she thought of the amnesia she got, and how her mom explained everything for her after that. She touched the writings on the scrapbook-- she touched Junho's name-- she looked at the chapters.

Suddenly-- she was hurt. She hated how unfamiliar things actually were, and how empty she really felt. She hated how she couldn't remember anything--

Tears escaped from her eyes. She panted and whimpered as she touched Junho's name. She opened the scrapbook to the last chapter-- 'Inside the Treehouse'. She didn't get why she was so scared at the time. She never finished reading the scrapbook- because the thought of a crying Junho made it too painful for her.

But now- she's ready to read it through-- up to the last line.

......

"Make sure that he doesn't find out, okay?"

"Yes ma'am."

Mr. Jung never really knew about Mrs. Jung's plan. She remembered how Mr. Jung asked about Yuri- and how she answered to him that Yuri transferred to a different place. Mr. Jung liked Yuri, and Mrs. Jung secretly despised this. If Mr. Jung finds out about Mrs. Jung's plan about Lee Jun ho, about Yuri-- and what she did to Jessica after the accident-- he will be more than furious.

So, Mrs. Jung has to hide everything for now.

"For the meantime, keep an eye on Yuri. Don't let her see or even write to Jessica-- understood? Once I get the letters from Jessica, burn them down. It's too risky now." Mrs. Jung said as she opened the blinds.

"Hurt her, if necessary. Just don't let her get to Jessica. Also-- delete Yuri's contact number from Jessica's phone, is that clear?"

The men nodded. Mr. Song nodded as well, let out an evil grin and said--

"With pleasure."

......

Sunny looked straight at Sooyoung. They've been sitting inside the coffee shop without talking for an hour now. Sunny looked at her feet- Sooyoung just glared at her.

"Soo-baby... please..."

"Why..."

Sunny bit her lower lip- she tried to stop the tears but they were too heavy now.

"I was pressured... scared... confused... I was... it's Mrs. Jung-- she corned me and-- and told me that..."

Sooyoung was hurt inside after seeing Sunny cry-- but she tried to stay still. Sunny continued explaining-

"She threatened me... she told me she was going to hurt you... I-- I don't want you to get hurt, okay? I don't... I just... I love you so much that it's only you I care for--- I wanted to tell you but- I was just so scared and helpless at that time..."

Sooyoung stood up before Sunny could finish. She embraced the little girl and rested her chin on Sunny's head. "Hush now... It's okay... I was just disappointed-- but now, it's okay."

"Please watch out... Don't leave me... I won't let her hurt you..." Sunny sniffed. Sooyoung laughed as she imagined someone tiny, like Sunny, save her from the bad guys.

"I should be the one protecting you, okay? Don't worry. She can't hurt us-- she will lose-- we're on the good side, and the good ones always win, okay? So please Sunny-bunny... don't cry.... please. You're making me hungry."

Sunny giggled and smacked Sooyoung, "You... I'm really sorry...."

"It's okay now, alright?" Sooyoung said with a smile, "Besides, we're the happy couple-- not the dramatic and tragic one- that title belongs to Yuri and Jessica. So, let's move on and think of a plan to help them, okay?"

Sunny hugged Sooyoung, "Okay. I love you so much."

"I love you too." Sooyoung whispered, patting Sunny on the head.

......

He took his glasses of. He looked at the mirror and practiced a smile. He resumed to his serious face. He fixed his tie and put on his glasses- he must look handsome.

He opened the door of the airport comfort room and handed his bags over to his assistants. "Where is her place?"

"We don't know yet, Mr. Lee- Mrs. Jung said that she would set you two up on a date as soon as possible." one of the assistants said. Mr. Lee nodded.

"Okay then."

He pulled his phone from his pocket, opened it and dialed.

"Hey Sunny! I'm finally home! I'm coming there after I meet up with our affiliates. Tell Aunt that she must prepare something delicious for me, okay? I'm really excited..."

The phone gibbered back. The other men watched around as they approached the private car they've readied for the young business man. Mr. Lee opened the door to the car, jumped in, took the sunglasses of, smiled- and said...

"See you soon."

......

'Slap'

Chapter Thirty-two

Jessica's been gone for days.

Mrs. Jung has been busy with work- and the fact that Jessica's been isolating herself (for some reason they don't know) really supported her plan of separating Yuri and Jessica. For now, Mrs. Jung's plan (to separate Yuri and Jessica, to marry Jessica with Lee Jun ho) has to remain hidden-- because first, Mr. Jung was around and second-- Jun ho was in fact, busy with his vacation. Jun ho was indeed clueless about everything- about Jessica, about Yuri and of most-- about Mrs. Jung's plan.

*Jun ho knows who Jessica is, but he is completely clueless about Mrs. Jung's plan.

Yuri, on the other hand, has been busy with her work- and is also been busy planning on what to do about Jessica, with the other girls.

"Two weeks."

Yuri crossed her legs and played with her fingers. The last time they (Yuri and Jessica) communicated with each other was last week-- and to think they were talking about Yuri's past. Yuri took this oppurtunity to indirectly confess to Jessica that she's the Jun ho that she loves all along.

Yuri told Jessica about her job before as a deliver girl- how she would enjoy riding around the province with her scooter- how she took care of her mom and all- and lastly, that she spend these memorable moments with the person she loves. Yuri called this 'person' - Sleepy head.

*Jessica, Sooyeon, and Sleepy head are one person.

Since then, Jessica isolated herself for some reason that always worried Yuri.

"What if she remembers you already? That's possible right?" Yoona said after Yuri explained. Yuri sarcastically laughed,

"You think so? What if... I texted her last night, and she replied saying that she's fine and that she's working on something."

Tiffany (who was sitting on Taeyeon's lap) held her breath, "She's like that. Usually she wouldn't go to school for days-- I don't really know why."

Yuri smacked herself, "I don't know how to tell her... or-- if it's right at all."

"Do you wanna lose her for good?" Sooyoung yelled, "She's just blinded by Mrs. Jung's lies-- but her feelings and love for you is intact and still present-- once she figures it out by herself and through the evidences we've obtained, I'm sure she won't care about anything else! You just have to prove to her that IT WAS YOU!."

Yuri nodded. Her already strong feelings for Jessica got bolder by the minute. Sooyeon (or Jessica) is hers- and she's taking her back.

"First, we have to stop Mrs. Jung."

......

Jessica sat on her bed.

Her head has been aching for days, and if she was confused before-- she was much more confused now.

She didn't know why Yuri was such a bid deal to her. Apart from being nice- good- and helpful for Jessica, Yuri seem to have taken a huge part of Jessica's emptiness-- and Yuri has never failed to replace this emptiness with happiness, hope-- and even love.

Jessica massaged her temples-- Kwon Yuri... Kwon Yuri... KWON YURI she kept thinking.

She someone knocking and blew her thoughts away. She hurriedly ran to the door and opened it. A big man with a black suit came in urgently.

"Your phone, Miss Jessica."

Jessica raised her eyebrows, "Why do you need it?"

"Your mom ordered me to do so."

Jessica held on the phone, "Can I use it for a while? I have to call someone. Just wait."

Mr. Song sat on the sofa and groaned.

......

Hours later.

Yuri walked aimlessly across the street. She has to see if Jessica was fine- she just has too. She knows that Jessica could be cold and lonely without her, and she didn't want that. She has too--

She stopped in her steps.

"Jessica?"

She saw a blond petite girl sitting on the sidewalk (in front of her apartment). As soon as she heard Yuri, Jessica stood up and greeted her.

"Hey. How are you?" Yuri said, "I've been worried. Are you sick? Are you-- are you alright?"

Jessica nodded, "I'm good, don't worry. I've been lonely though-- you wanna take a walk?"

This was what she wanted apart from telling her the truth-- a walk with Jessica was like a trip to memory lane for Yuri. And by this, a piece of her heart is broken and put to whole at the same time.

The night was quiet and still, but Yuri's heart and mind weren't. She was scared, she was bothered and of most, she wanted to act natural as much as possible. This girl beside her is Sooyeon indeed, and Yuri felt a mixture of relief, comfort, love, anger and pity inside.

"So, what happened?" Yuri asked. She saw how Jessica hugged herself, "Are you cold?"

"Hug me." Jessica whispered with a smile, "Take it as a form of apology for making you worry."

Yuri smiled, she wanted to cry of happiness and pain- but she must act natural. She unhesitantly hugged her and rubbed Jessica's arms as she did. She felt Jessica rest her head on Yuri's chest-- Yuri didn't know why but it looked as if Jessica was deep in thought- so, she didn't disturb her...

"I really love Jun ho. I love him no matter what."

Yuri felt as if her stomach was gonna fall down anytime now.

"I wanted him to know that- I didn't want him to be stuck in the past because of me and that I loved him all along. I want to hear him say that he loves me."

Yuri smiled, lowered her voice and (meaningfully) said, "I love you" in a man's voice. Jessica giggled and hugged Yuri back.

"Yuri I want to say thanks for everything." Jessica whispered under her breath, "For making me smile, for comforting me, for being here for me, for... for everything. You such a nice friend- and you're the best that I've ever had."

Yuri's heart ached once more-- she didn't want to lose this friendship with Jessica, she didn't want this night to end-- she just wanted Jessica to stay in her arms and by that simple prayer- her three year old pain would go away.

"I don't really know what to say-- I'll just-"

She looked down but before she could continue talking, she stopped as she figured that their lips were just inches apart. Yuri didn't move-- a part of her wanted to pull back, and another part wanted to just kiss Jessica. She thought Jessica was going to pull away, but instead-- she didn't. She didn't move and just looked at her straight in the eyes.

Jessica slowly moved towards her. Yuri closed her eyes-- she just wanted to let go.

"Jessica!"

Jessica let go of Yuri and turned to see her mom approach them. "Jessica, it's late-- and--"

"Mom, wh-what are you doing here?" Jessica said nervously. Yuri glared furiously at Mrs. Jung-- this woman lied to her- this woman tortured her through Mr. Song and his men- this woman RUINED EVERYTHING-- and of most, this woman fooled Jessica and took advantage of her. Yuri gritted her teeth as Mrs. Jung approached them. She clutched her fists inside her jacket pockets and just stared at her.

"Who is this?" Mrs. Jung pretended. She gave out a fake smile. Yuri didn't budge, she continued to glare at her.

"This is Kwon Yuri, umm-- she's from my school." Jessica said, "And she's---- YURI!"

SLAAAAAP!!!

Yuri couldn't help it anymore. She tried to stop herself- but she just wanted to slap the face of off Mrs. Jung's. Her heart pounded as she held it in-- but after delivering that strong 'SLAP' to Mrs. Jung, she's never been so relieved in her whole life.

"YURI! WHY?!"

Mrs. Jung stood up from the ground and fixed herself. Her men came running down to them after she did so. Jessica looked from Yuri to Mrs. Jung, and pulled Yuri - "Why?! She's my mother!"

"She's your mother alright." Yuri said haughtily, "BUT IS SHE ONE FOR YOU?"

Jessica just looked at Yuri. Although her mom has always been the workaholic-strict-cold type of a mother, she is her mother indeed- and nothing can change that. Jessica bit her lip and looked at the ground, "What are you talking about?"

"Ask her." Yuri said. The men just wanted to strangle Yuri, but they could because Mrs. Jung's hidden plan would be spoiled. Yuri fixed herself, "I'm sorry Jessica."

Jessica didn't know what to do. What was happening? Why did Yuri slap Mrs. Jung? Why did Mrs. Jung and Yuri know each other? A thought occurred in Jessica. Suddenly- everything else makes sense.

......

After that incident, Mrs. Jung couldn't help but escape from all of it. She has to hide it from Jessica, and her mere excuse was that she had to attend to a meeting.

"I didn't get her number, nor deleted it." Mr. Song said as Mrs. Jung applied a cold compress on her cheek. "I couldn't find her name on Jessica's contact list."

"Are you sure?" Mrs. Jung said behind the ice pack, "Jessica must've noticed us by now-- she must meet up with Jun ho as soon as possible. Make that happen, okay? And one more thing..."

"Yes?"

"Deal with Yuri."

Mr. Song nodded and resumed to his blackberry.

......

Last night was a mixture of revelation, action-- and romance for Yuri and Jessica, Hyoyeon on the other hand- just came home from an island resort, being clueless of everything that's been going on.

Hyoyeon smiled as the sun hit her face. She's never been so happy in her life. Last night was the night of nights for her- and luckily for her, there's more to come.

BUT- she has to wait a little more. Only a little more.

......

'Disappointment'

Chapter Thirty-three

"We almost kissed."

"What? AND? WHAT HAPPENED?"

"That's basically why I smacked Mrs. Jung... well, at least it's one of the hundred reasons for it." Yuri said sitting straight, "It was so close-- and I couldn't just... she was moving towards me and-"

"And? Wait! She WAS moving towards you? You mean, she was gonna start it?" Yoona said standing up, "That means... well maybe she's falling for you!"

"I don't want to take it that way-- I don't want to expect for things that will turn out the other way anyway. She was emotional that night--" Yuri crossed her arms, "Anyway... What if Jun ho pops out of no where? What will I do then? I'm screwed."

"Yuri, don't worry..." Seohyun said as she sat down beside Yuri, "Jun ho is not you... He's not the person that Jessica loves-- you are that person, and you should look at the bright side and be thankful that Jessica loves you."

"But she doesn't know I'm a girl, that I'm a poor hag... that I'm nothing--"

"Why are you saying that?" Yoona complained, "Yuri- remember that from nothing you can be everything to someone through love."

"So you do think that I'm nothing?"

Yoona laughed and pushed Yuri, "I don't silly! What I'm trying to say is that-- Jessica is already in love and is taken by you from the start... and once she knows that it's you, nothing else will matter (that is, if she truly is in love with you which I'm quite sure of)."

Yuri just looked down and hoped that a plan will come out of her already battered brain.

"You just have to tell her." Seohyun smiled. She heard Yoona cough at the sentence.

......

Jessica shook her head as the sunlight hit her face. Last night was both good and bad for her-- good, because she almost kissed Yuri and bad because she almost kissed Yuri (and things could be awkward again) and Yuri slapping Mrs. Jung made things a lot more confusing now.

She stood up and comber her hair backwards-- she then approached the shelf and pulled the scrapbook once more. She scanned through the pages she's already read for a hundred times and stopped at the last line-- this line could bring her a step closer to or away from truth-- and now she really understood it.

She knows that her mother can be evil-- but she didn't think that she could be much worse (that is, if she really did lie to her).

She has to ask her.

......

"Oh, so he's the son of the Lees?" Mr. Jung said as Mrs. Jung ate her pancake, "He's intelligent and is a good man? Am I right?"

Mrs. Jung nodded, "I think we should set them on a date."

"Of course! Why not?" Mr. Jung laughed, "If he is a good man then that's fine with me. But wait, how is Jessica doing? I can't wait to meet her."

"She's busy with school, but she'll be here as soon as she's done with it." Mrs. Jung smirked. Mr. Jung nodded and returned to his meal,

"What about Kwon Yuri? I bet they're still hanging out up to now. Those two have been very close since they were young. I wonder how the two are doing lately-- we should even the two of them over..."

"Kwon Yuri and Jessica don't hang out anymore. Yuri went off to somewhere far--" Mrs. Jung lied. She saw the smile fading from Mr. Jung's face.

Mrs. Jung already succeeded in convincing her husband about Jun ho- but still, she has to hide the real plan here. She has talk to Jun ho before Jessica gets to Mr. Jung.

The breakfast table and the setting of early morning bonding between a husband and wife masked the reality that lies behind Mrs. Jung's smile.

......

Sunny smiled and clapped her phone shut. She's never been so proud in her life. Her guilt about hiding the truth from Jessica wore off as she walked down the street. She saw Sooyoung holding on to a bouquet of flowers-- she smiled and again, realized how lucky she was to have her.

"So?" Sooyoung said, "What happened?"

Sunny gave her a thumbs up. Sooyoung punched the air and swiftly resumed to her formal self as she slightly slouched to hand Sunny the flowers. "One down, two to go."

......

"Okay, copy that." Taeyeon read- she sent her reply to Sooyoung and resumed to kissing Tiffany. Tiffany pushed her lightly, "What did she say?"

"Mission two has been completed." Taeyeon said perkily, "Now, we'll have to proceed to the next-- but before that--"

Taeyeon leaned forward and delivered soft kisses to Tiffany. Tiffany giggled ass Taeyeon did so.

"Yah, you can't handle me can't you?"

Taeyeon didn't answer but instead her soft kisses turned into passionate ones-- and soon after that, they found each other making their way into each's clothes. Tiffany moaned as Taeyeon hungrily kissed her, she felt her heartbeat pound as she tried to grasp for air between kisses. Taeyeon was madly seduced.

Tiffany gripped the sheets as Taeyeon's hand traced down to her (Tiffany's) core as she continued kissing her. Her tongue tangled with Tiffany's, she felt the strands of her hair stand and the burning sensation all over her body explode.

"I love you." Taeyeon said, as she deeply breathed for air--"and I'll never be tired of saying that."

Tiffany smiled and started to kiss her now, but this kiss was slow and romantic-- passionate rather. Tiffany returned Taeyeon's words with this kiss, and this will always be remembered by the two.

"I love you." Taeyeon said, as she deeply breathed for air--"and I'll never be tired of saying that."

Tiffany smiled and started to kiss her now, but this kiss was slow and romantic-- passionate rather. Tiffany returned Taeyeon's words with this kiss, and this will always be remembered by the two.

......

Jessica opened the door to her mother's office and marched towards her. Her mom looked up for the loud sound from Jessica's footsteps distracted her from work, and this approach was unusual to her.

"What was Yuri talking about? Why did she slap you?"

Mrs. Jung stood up, put her hand on Jessica's shoulders-- and sighed.

"It was nothing, trust me. I'm guessing she slapped me for cutting your supposed, kiss." Mrs. Jung whispered, Jessica just blinked.

"Did you lie to me? Everything about Jun ho... every--"

"Why would a mother lie to her child, especially if it's about her memories before?" Mrs. Jung said in a motherly tone, leaning forward, "I'm your mother, and why would I do such an evil deed? I know what's best for you, and I won't hurt you."

Jessica looked down at her feet.

"Forget about it dear, Jun ho's home-- and I'm going to arrange your meeting." Mrs. Jung finished with a smile.

......

'Time'

Chapter Thirty-four

Yuri held on the purple necklace. This thing belongs to Jessica, and she must return it to her. But at the time, Jessica should know who Yuri truly is.

She gripped it- "This is her fault... this Mrs. Jung's fault... she will pay... she will... You just have to wait a little longer-- you have to hold on for now Kwon Yuri... But still, what if Jessica won't accept me?"

Yuri sat on her bed and tilted her head backwards, facing the ceiling.

Jessica didn't know that Yuri was a girl, and if she figures out that her rich, handsome and intelligent Jun ho is Yuri-- things could turn around not only for Jessica alone, but for the two of them. She didn't want to ruin Jessica's form of inspiration through Jun ho, but still-- what if she finds out about Mrs. Jung's lies?

She didn't want Jessica to be hurt- she didn't want Jessica to be played around, and of most, she didn't want Jessica's love to be wasted on nothing.

To sum it all up, she doesn't know what to do.

She looked back to everything they've been through-- saving her from that pool, making her smile, riding around with her, the confession that parted them-- Jessica and Sooyeon actually being the same person-- could fate be playing with them, or is fate leading them back? Are the obstacles signs of disapproval from destiny, or is it a sign that they should overcome everything and be together?

Yuri stood up and stretched. Whatever the answer maybe, she knows in her heart that she loves Jessica- and it will stay that way no matter what happens.

But, will time wait for them?

......

Yoona looked across the street as Mr. Hamster (Seohyun) danced with the children. She laughed as Mr. Hamster succeeded in making the children laugh by pretending to slip-- this hamster right here is the one for Yoona-- and Yoona loves this hamster.

But this hamster has been silent for too long, and could it be that Yoona's waiting for nothing? Yoona shook her head, "You need to wait longer, Yoong"

Yoona chose to wait silently not because she was afraid and shy, but rather-- she to see if Seohyun would be strong and brave enough to tell her herself.

The hamster stopped dancing all of a sudden as the children left for their parents. It stayed still and touched its heart-- Yoona just watched Seohyun (Mr. Hamster)-- she reminded herself that she was sick and that time 'could' be limited for the two of them.

Yoona ran to Mr. Hamster and punched her lightly at the back. Mr. Hamster looked at her and gave her a hug-- Yoona wished that this hug was meant from Seohyun herself, not from Mr. Hamster.

......

A week from now, Jessica will finally be able to meet Jun ho. She spread her arms across the bed as she continued examining to ceiling-- or rather, pondering.

She closed her eyes as tears came escaping from them.

[I]"It's so confusing..."[/i]

She hugged herself but still she was cold-- she's always been cold, till Yuri came along.

Yuri came out of no where, and her cold life was warm whenever she was with her. Yuri always made her smile, made her laugh, made her feel sincerely loved.

But after reading the scrapbook, after the night when Yuri slapped Mrs. Jung-- everything was just messed up. Everything made sense, but she wasn't sure of it still. She was taken a back, but somehow-- weirdly, she was relieved.

She continued crying- it's all because of that accident. That accident caused all of this, if it wasn't for that-- she wouldn't be as empty and vague as now. She thought of her mother, she thought of Yuri, she thought of the letters, the necklace and the scrapbook--

......

She sighed and wiped the tear from her eye. She pulled her cellphone from her pocket, raised it up-- and scanned through the contacts list. She stopped at Junho's name, and just stared at it.

"It's always been you, from the start-- to now. It's you that I love."

......

Two days later.

"Mission two's done." Taeyeon said as Tiffany nodded along. Sooyoung and Sunny celebrated with them as Jessica came in. She threw her bag to the the van and sighed. Taeyeon and Tiffany just stared at her, Sooyoung and Sunny coughed and walked to the van.

"What was that about?" Jessica said.

"Nothing, you know those two, they're weird." Taeyeon grinned. Tiffany back-hugged her and shook her around. "Who will be driving?"

The gang planned this outing as a form of their other 'mission' for Yuri and Jessica, and a form getaway from all the topsy-turvy things they've been trying to solve and resolve. They needed a rest, they needed a vacation from all of it.

"This outing is gonna be awesome!" Yoona said, looking out from the van. "C'mon guys! Jump in already!"

Jessica sighed and opened the door from the front seat. She was surprised to see Yuri on the driver's seat.

"You can drive?" Jessica smiled, leaping in.

"I guess." Yuri beamed, "I'll keep you awake through the trip, keke~"

Jessica nudged Yuri and giggled, "I'll hope for that. I heard the view towards the mountains is great."

Yuri nodded. She looked behind, "Are you guys ready?"

The gang cheerfully yelled back at her. Sooyoung winked at Yuri, leaned forward-- and whispered...

"This is your chance to prove to her that your the Jun ho she's been longing for, so don't waste it!"

Yuri pushed her back into her seat, hoping that Jessica didn't hear and stepped on the gear. She looked at Jessica, and hoped that Mr. Song and his men wouldn't follow them along and ruin everything.

......

'The Beach'

Chapter Thrity-Five

Yuri took her sunglasses off as the other girls ran to the shore. She and Jessica glanced at the beach and appreciated it with few minutes of silence-but great noise deep inside.

"It's beautiful..." Jessica broke the silence. Yuri smiled,

"Like you." She thought. (*lol, I know I know, it's cliché.)

Yuri nodded and smiled at the thought, "Yeah, it is."

This 'vacation' was not only an escape and break from all the drama, confusion, and revelations for Yuri and Jessica-but this vacation was also a time-out from all of Yuri's setbacks, doubts, fear, and hesitations from what she felt and what she wants to do with or to Jessica.

She held Jessica's hand, and grinned at her- "Let's swim!"

"But Yuri I can't--"

"Did you forget that this friend of yours is a varsity swimmer? C'mon, I won't let you swim all by yourself. Trust me, I'll be here."

Jessica raised her eyebrows and smiled, "Just tell me that you want to see me in m bikini."

Yuri cackled and covered her mouth, Jessica was partly right indeed.

"I'm no pervy, don't worry." She lied.

Yuri pulled her shirt off (slowly). She brushed her hair from side to side by gently swaying her head as she did. Jessica just looked at her with her jaw dropped. She saw Yuri's S-line, girl abs, and her shining tan body-all in SLOW MO. For a moment there, she was again, seduced. (*who wouldn't be?)

"Y-Yuri..."

"C'mon!" Yuri laughed, as she ran to the beach. Jessica pulled hers off and followed.

......

"Sooyoung!"

"Hold still!"

"I'm going to fall!"

"Hold-arr!"

Sooyoung crouched, "C'mon, get on."

Sunny pouted, "I'm sorry babe, I'm just... I'm scared that I might fall."

"You won't if you get on. C'mon, it's okay." Sooyoung said, merrily. Sunny nevertheless rode her back and put her arms and legs around the giant. Sooyoung walked along the seawall slowly as the strong blow from the sea puffed against them.

Sooyoung looked back at Sunny and noticed that this dwarf was enjoying the view a lot, she has never seen her so happy before.

"You're enjoying this a lot, eh?"

Sunny smiled without showing her teeth and nodded, "I remember my late grandpa. I feel his presence and- he always made me happy."

Sooyoung looked away, "Well-if this makes you happy then I don't care how long the seawall is- and how long it should take for me to give you a ride all the way... as long as your happy, I won't be tired of it."

She heard Sunny let out an embarrassed laugh, "Sooyoung... your sweet words..."

"Are all true," Sooyoung finished, "But nothing is as true as what I feel for you. I love you, Sunny bunny. No matter what."

Sunny kissed Sooyoung's cheek, "And you know the answer to that."

"I wanna hear it."

Sunny hugged Sooyoung tightly, "I love you too."

The sunset was looming as the two walked along the seawall.

......

Yoona sat beside Seohyun as another silent moment passed them by. The sea continued to reach out to the sand as it pulled itself back again. Yoona looked at Seohyun-she was just looking out at the ocean. She really wanted to read what's on her mind- and if that's what she wanted now, she needed her to admit her feelings for her more than anything.

"Seohyun!"

"Whaa?" Seohyun said in surprise, "You don't need to say that out loud, I'm barely a foot away from you."

"Do you like mascots?"

Seohyun tried to stay still, "Oh no, I think Yoong is noticing me!" she thought.

"Uhm, well. They're alright, but I'm kinda scared of them."

"Well! I like them, you know that? I love them, actually." Yoona said, smiling with her eyes closed, "They are so mysterious- so silent, and yet-they bring laughter and joy to children, and even to an older person like me!"

Seohyun just nodded, "You'd love to have a mascot for a lover?"

Yoona nodded back, "Yeah, haha! I know it's weird."

Seohyun looked down at the sand, as she examined her fingers. "Yoong... what are you trying to do..."

Yoona leaned forward and rested her head on Seohyun's shoulders, "Seohyun..."

Seohyun sighed. "I'm sorry Yoona... I just can't say it..."

......

Taeyeon pinned Tiffany against the wall and hungrily kissed her neck. Tiffany tilted her head backward as the satisfactions continued to burst into her. Taeyeon closed her eyes as her mouth found it's way to Tiffany's-as so, she 'tasted' her.

They continued as Tiffany moaned between kisses. Taeyeon wildly growled as she avidly but slowly bit Tiffany's lower lip-Tiffany returned a short moan. "T-Taeyeon you're too wild--"

"You give up?" Taeyeon teased. Tiffany smiled, "It actually meant that I was asking for more."

Taeyeon did her signature 'ahjumma laugh' and carried Tiffany to the bed. She slowly crept into Tiffany's top as Tiffany lay on the bed. She grabbed both of her hands and pinned them to each side of the bed.

Taeyeon leaned forward to kiss Tiffany, this time- it was slow and 'dreamy'. After that 'long' kiss, Taeyeon took a deep breath and moved down. Tiffany arched as Taeyeon did her job.

"Taeyeon-I-can't--- hold---it---an long---er---ahh! Someone's knocking!"

Taeyeon jumped off of Tiffany and barked, "Who's there? Darn it."

"Dinner's ready!" Sunny shouted from outside the cottage, "Sorry for ruining your rather-'noisy' make out session but we're hungry."

"Go ahead!" Taeyeon snarled. She closed the curtains and looked back at Tiffany. "Shall we continue?"

"With pleasure." Tiffany answered, pulling her dress down.

......

Yuri burped as she stood up to clean the mess around the bonfire. The others went ahead to enjoy the night view of the resort, but Jessica 'unusually' stayed behind to help Yuri out.

"Is it always like this?" Jessica asked, as she opened the garbage bag for Yuri, "You're always left behind to clean the mess?"

Yuri shrugged, "I don't really mind. You should go with them."

"Just thank me Yuri." Jessica rayed, Yuri could see her beauty even more-now that the fire radiated her face despite the darkness. They were alone now, with the fire, the sea and the stars above.

"Thank you, eonnie." Yuri giddily let out. Jessica covered her mouth at the site of a kiddy Yuri.

The two finished cleaning and chose to stay at the bonfire. Yuri hugged herself as Jessica covered her body with a towel (*yes, the two girls are still in their bikinis).

"Yuri, did you ever get into a relationship with someone?"

Yuri looked at her with a stern look, "Not really. Why'd you ask?"

"I just want to know how it feels you know. I've never felt it- being protected by someone, being kissed and being hugged-I feel lonely."

Yuri took time to listen.

"I want to feel it- being committed, being secured with one person-all the nice things that relationships bring."

Yuri sat straight, "Well, you said you were lonely- did you forget about me? Hehe! Oh, and besides, you have Jun ho."

Jessica was silenced after that. She just gazed at the fire as it burnt the wood- this was how fast her feelings grew for 'the one she loves'.

"You're right, I had him all along and... I love him."

Yuri's tummy was filled with butterflies now- her heart ached once more.

"I'm glad." She lied, "are you cold? Let me..."

She sat nearer and embraced Jessica. Jessica smiled with both her mouth and eyes closed and raised her shoulders as Yuri did- "Yuri, thank you so much."

Yuri just smiled, but deep inside-she wanted to tell her so bad-she just didn't want to ruin Jessica's happiness and 'sureness' towards 'Jun ho'.

"Yuri-I-"

Jessica turned to look at Yuri- but she was surprised to realize how close their faces was, not knowing that Yuri turned to look at her at the same time. They just stared at each other-deeply, dreamingly, passionately-and hopefully, romantically.

Yuri drowned into Jessica's stare- her heart was whole all of a sudden- out of the blue, Jessica was Sooyeon again, and her presence- the once she was longing for-was there once again.

"Kiss her... Kiss her... no wait, don't kiss her... it's not time yet..." Yuri's mind battled.

Jessica looked through Yuri's dark eyes, they were dark- but when she stared at them- she felt very bright. She could feel Yuri's fast breathing, heart pounding, and her own as well. She didn't know why, but suddenly she felt complete again.

"Kiss me... Just... Just kiss me, Kwon Yuri... Just once..." Jessica shouted in her mind, wishing that Yuri could read it.

Yuri closed her eyes, "Yuri... take the chance... Just... for one night, do something for yourself for once..."

She slowly moved forward-she saw Jessica close her eyes, which was a good sign perhaps. She inhaled deeply, and finally-their lips touched.

The kiss was soft but romantic- Yuri wished that it would never end.

Jessica returned by also moving forward, her hand slowly making its way to Yuri's S-line. Yuri tilted her head as Jessica's tongue entered her mouth. She's never kissed anyone like this, so it felt really new and 'good' for her. Yuri let the satisfaction capture her and so did Jessica. Jessica took the towel off as Yuri put her hands on Jessica's cheeks. Jessica put her arms around Yuri's neck and pulled her in.

Yuri pulled away for a second, "I-I'm sorry- I should stop--"

"Don't..." Jessica moaned, "I... let's..."

Yuri resumed to kissing Jessica, this time- her tongue granted entry into Jessica's mouth. She heard Jessica hold her breath for a short while, and exhaled noisily after she pulled Yuri. Jessica's back hit the sand as Yuri rode her, their already warm bodies coming in contact.

Jessica brushed Yuri's hair from behind as Yuri bit her ear lobe. Yuri was holding it back for too long, and this night-she will let it go.

Jessica's hand traced down from Yuri's neck down to her lower back, pulling her closer and tighter.

Yuri wanted to tell her that she loves her, that she's Junho, that she was sorry for keeping it from her, that she really meant this... but then again, she was too scared too. A tear fled her eye.

Jessica noticed and brushed it off with her thumb, as she held onto Yuri's cheek.

"Don't cry now..."

She turned Yuri over, now being on the top. She kissed Yuri and bit her lower lip as she stopped, and slowly shifted down to Yuri's core, leaving kisses ahead. Yuri whispered for Jessica's name, her body arching as Jessica went further. This night was the best for her so far.

The fire continued to illuminate them as their wet bodies reflected the flare and the moonlight. This made them so obvious, that Yoona and Seohyun (who came back from shell hunting) just stood their watching them, with their jaws dropped and their eyes popped out.

"Y-Yoong..."

"S-Seohyun..."

The two were clearly innocent.

......

The morning met the gang as they packed up to leave. Yuri tried to erase the awkwardness that she felt after what she did last night with Jessica-- but Jessica surprisingly acted as if it never happened. Taeyeon and Tiffany took pictures together as the others walked towards the van.

"Yeah, they did- we saw them!"

Sooyoung jumped around in enjoyment as Yoona finished sharing to her about last night. Sooyoung pulled Yoona by the collar-

"Why-didn't-you-call-ME?!"

Yoona pushed her away and raised her eyebrows, "'cause you were too busy making out with Sunny!"

Sooyoung nodded in agreement, "Well, that's a valid excuse. How did Seohyun take it? She must be traumatized now!"

Yoona just cackled and looked at Seohyun, who was sitting inside the van daydreaming. She grinned at the site of a cute, calm, and blank expression on her face.

......

"Ahh! It bit me!"

"It's not even alive."

Taeyeon laughed as Tiffany kicked the small rock away. She spread her hands in the air, "C'mon Taengoo, take a picture!"

Taeyeon groaned and clicked the camera for the nth time now.

"I want to go back here with you-- ten years from now." Tiffany said seriously. Taeyeon walked to her and hugged her-

"Ten years... Twenty... Forty... A hundered... I'm sure we'll be able to do that."

Tiffany patted Taeyeon, "You talk big for a short person."

Taeyeon pushed her away, "WHAT DID YOU CALL ME!?"

Tiffany stuck her tongue out and splattered some sea water to Taeyeon- Taeyeon growled and chased her around as the waters flickered with the sunlight.

......

Yuri closed the door and stared the engine. Jessica sat beside her fixing the rear mirror, she caught Yuri's reflection staring at her-- and playfully said "I seeee yoouuu~"

Yuri laughed and gently smacked Jessica's cheek. She looked in front of her and stepped on the gear- hoping that in their return to the city things would be better and that she could finally claim Jessica once and for all.

......

*SNSD - 'Fun' playing on the van's radio.

The girls sang along as Jessica swayed Yuri from side to side, Yoona smacking Tiffany lightly on the forehead with every beat, Taeyeon- Sooyoung and Sunny all singing loudly.

"Seohyun, are you okay?"

Seohyun stopped gripping her shirt, "Yeah. I'm fine, don't worry."

Sunny looked away from Seohyun and resumed to playing with Sooyoung.

"It hurts so bad... Hold on Seohyun." Seohyun thought. She looked outside the window, closed her eyes, felt the breeze- and prayed that time would wait for Yoona and her.

......

'The Fall'

Chapter Thirty-six

Yuri fell again, wiping the blood off of her nose. She blinked twice to regain the clearness of her vision-- only to welcome another blow from behind.

She fell on the ground- she felt the dampness of the street and the sweat all over her.

"Stay... away... from her." Mr. Song said, throwing his cigarette to Yuri. Yuri screeched in pain as the cigarette touched her skin.

One of the men pulled Yuri up by the hair-

"Do you understand?" Mr. Song said, walking towards Yuri. Yuri was now furiously grasping for air.

"She's... You're all going no where... She's mine... and I will never--"

Yuri's back hit the wall after the impact from Mr. Song's punch. She crouched and screamed in pain again, blood falling out of her mouth.

"If you won't stay away- perhaps your mother should be punished as well." Mr. Song smirked, throwing off a picture of Mrs. Kwon.

Yuri tried to fight against the fatigue and grabbed the picture. "N-N-No..."

"Yes. So if I were you-- STAY AWAY." Mr. Song finished, signalling the men to leave. They fixed their suites and walked out of the alley, leaving a battered Yuri collapsing out of no where.

.......

"She's not answering her phone- what if..."

"Her mom said that she's not home-- darn..."

"She could be hurt, you know how evil that witch can be..."

The girls walked around as Sooyoung continued to try and contact Yuri. Tiffany was seated near the window- praying while Taeyeon comforted her.

"Mission two is done. Two down, one to go." Sunny reported, Sooyoung smiled at her and pulled her to sit beside.

"I told them about our plan... so we won't have to worry about Mrs. Jung- the only problem now is how and when are we going to tell Jessica? Or rather... how would Yuri do that."

"It's hard since Jessie's been always against girl to girl relationships." Taeyeon reminisced, "But who cares!? Yuri is the Jun ho in her heart and not even amnesia can beat that!"

"I think it's safer for Yuri to stay away for a while-- I think men are out to get her, since Mrs. Jung threatened me before." Sunny shared, "I think we should do the 'job' in disguise, since Mrs. Jung doesn't know that we know about it."

Sooyoung nodded, "But still-- it would be great if Yuri's the one who'd tell her."

"What if Jessica already knows?"

They looked around at Tiffany.

"I mean-- they made out already right? And plus, I bet she already read that scrapbook a dozen times now- and being the author behind it, I know that she'll decipher that last line that practically proves everything."

The other girls remained silent.

......

Jessica closed the shower curtain.

She felt the warm water soothe her body as she closed her eyes and tried to contemplate. She thought of Jun ho, their arranged meeting-- and finally her realization. She let the excitement sink in-- finally, in a few days, she'll be whole again once they've already met. Her vague memories, finally put into place. She will be warm and happy again-- with Jun ho in no time.

She massaged her head as the water continued to flow-

"I love you, my Jun ho."

......

"Everything is going as planned." Mr. Song said, "That rugged Kwon Yuri's beaten up, and I'm sure she'll be too weak and battered to get her hands on Jessica."

"And the meeting?--" Mrs. Jung said behind the newspaper.

"Lee Jun ho and Jessica's meeting is arranged, madame. So, no worries." Mr. Song finished, standing straight.

Mrs. Jung layed the newspaper down and clapped her hands- "Great job, Mr. Song. You can go now."

Mr. Song fixed his tuxedo, bowed and turned away from the evil in front of her. He marched down the office and closed the door behind him--

"Mr. Song."

Mr. Song looked up and saw Mr. Jung in front of him.

"Good morning Mr. Song."

"Good morning too sir--"

Mr. Jung furiously pulled Mr. song by the collar, pulled him to the corner where no one could see and pinned him against the wall.

"What---is---this?" he growled. Mr. Song shook his head, "Sir, what are you talking abou--"

Mr. Jung pushed him again, as Mr. Song's sunglasses fell on the floor. The raged father stepped on it and broke it into pieces--

"Explain, or you'll end up like that."

......

Yoona licked her ice cream as Mr. Hamster happy danced across the street. The children danced around her as the hamster pulled on up to her shoulders.

"Whoa-- Seohyun's strong." Yoona smiled, crossing her legs. She needed Seohyun to tell her, she can't wait any longer-- she's been waiting for year now but still-- Seohyun hasn't packed the courage to do so.

Mr. Hamster put the child back down and wiggled her behind as the children laughed with it. She playfully swayed her head from side to side- and suddenly looked at Yoona.

Yoona waved back, "Hey Mr. Hamster! I bought you some ice--"

Yoona heard the children scream as Mr. Hamster fell on her back. Yoona sudddenly couldn't hear anything-- she felt her heart was going to burst any time now-- she ran to her, to Seohyun, to Mr. Hamster,

Mr. Hamster layed there lifelessly, as the children tried to put her back to consciousness. Yoona finally arrived and shook her from side to side.

"Seohyun! Seohyun!"

Mr. Hamster didn't move.

"Seohyun!" Yoona took the hamster head off, "Seohyun please! Please wake up!"

Seohyun's lips turned purple now, her skin clearly pale and her eyes half open-- without life. Her mouth moved a little as if hopelessly grasping for air.

"SEOHYUN! PLEASE, HELP!" Yoona screamed as tears fell from her face. The other children cried as one of the people who watched them pulled out his cellphone to call an ambulance. Yoona continued cry as Seohyun closed her eyes.

"Seohyun! Don't sleep! Don't sleep! Stay awake! Please!"

"I'm a nurse!"

Yoona didn't bother to look up as the nurse introduced himself.

"I'm Kyuhyun and I'm here to help- don't worry, I'll do my best while the ambulance is on its way." the man said, kneeling next to Seohyun as he checked for the pulse.

The children cried louder as a rain drop fell from the sky- Yoona gripped Mr. Hamster's arms and begged for her to stay awake. Her whimpers turned into cries as people crowded around them.

"Please... Seohyun, don't sleep-- I'm here, everything will be alright-- I love you... please..."

Seohyun stopped breathing.

......

'A Message'

Chapter Thirty-seven

The thunder crashed again. The rain poured faster and the clouds gloomier. Sooyoung stood in front of the door and tilted her head down. Yuri sat close by, her head bowed down and her eyes tightly closed somehow.

The sound of the hospital has traumatized Yoona by far, but still-- she chooses to face this and wait hopefully for Seohyun to come out of that door like any other day. She would smile-- she would run to them and would look down and ask Yoona about her love confession earlier (that is, if she heard Yoona). Yoona wanted this, and if it doesn't go this way she will lose it.

Yoona continued to pace back and forth in front of Yuri. The nurses passing by have noticed the three being there for hours, and so one of them approached and asked if they needed anything--

"I need Seohyun." Yoona whispered, "Please, please take care of her... she has to live."

......

Yuri closed the comfort room's door and walked to one of the cubicles. She sat on the covered toilet and bowed her head once more. So many bad things have happened- Seohyun being hospitalized, Mr. Song threatening her, Jessica meeting up with Jun ho soon-- and her being brutally battered. She really felt worn out and hurt both emotionally and physically now. She's nerve-wrecked and... tired.

She pulled her shirt up and touched the bruise on her side-- she bit her lip as the pain radiated. Se crouched down and tried to keep quiet. But then, the other bruises began throbbing all over. She was sweating now and a tear escaped from one of her eyes.

But still-- she has to be strong. Not only for herself, but for her family- her friends who've helped her and most especially... for Sooyeon... for Jessica. She needs to hold on, and she will never give up.

Yuri stood up and pushed the cubicle door open. She wiped off the sweat- and

"Yuri? Are you okay?"

She blinked twice to make her vision clear, and saw Tiffany standing in front of her. "You look pale, you're sweating oh my g... and Yuri, what's that in your arm!?"

Tiffany touched the bruise but Yuri pushed her away and rolled down her sleeve. "Don't mind it, it's nothing. Just... what are you doing here?"

"We heard about Seohyun, so we came." Tiffany said, still examining the battered one in front of her. "Yuri, are you sure you're okay? You don't look good..."

Yuri smiled and nodded, "Yeah. Please don't worry."

Tiffany tried to smile. Yuri's strong and optimistic personality, and her never ending love for Jessica has always inspired and is continously admired by her. She has never seen someone so strong and determined as Yuri.

"Yuri, we'll help you- so don't lose hope okay? You'll get Jessica in no time." Tiffany smiled, pulling Yuri to a hug. "Just hold on."

Yuri wanted to cry and run away- a knight behind a shining armor is not strong all the time, he can also be weak and in the verge of breaking down after a long battle--- but still, no one can see that side of him behind the armor but instead, the armor itself symbolizes a knight's never ending strength. Deep inside the armor, Yuri was as hopeless and weak.

Yuri swallowed the pain and closed her eyes as Tiffany continued hugging her.

"WAIT-- Why is there YULTI all of a sudden?!"

Yuri and Tiffany from their hug and saw Taeyeon entering. "Oh, Taengoo, I was just--"

"You-were-what??" Taeyeon asked loudly, "I can't believe this! How could you Yuri?"

Yuri looked at Taeyeon blankly, and raised her eyebrows. "Wh--"

"Wh-wh-wh!!!" Taeyeon said furiously, "That's my Tiffany! MY! I can't believe this."

"Taengoo you're over-reacting..." Tiffany said pouting. Taeyeon laughed and lightly smacked Yuri at the side. Yuri bit her lower lip as the pain errupted again.

"I was just kidding. Hehe!" she said as Tiffany continued to pout.

"You're scaring Yuri. Yuri?"

Yuri closed her eyes and rested her back on the wall. Tiffany and Taeyeon hurriedly approached her and called for her name. She didn't hear anything, all she was focused on was the pain that errupted all over and the image of Jessica that flickered in her heart long before everything else was this. She just wanted to rest-- but then, again...

"I'm fine." Yuri said, panting. "Please... don't mind me. I'm sorry Taeyeon I was..."

"It's alright! Were you really scared? I was just kidding! Did I hurt you? I'm sorry." Taeyeon said in a worried tone, Tiffany playfully punched Taeyeon and giggled at the sight of a guilty and worried Taeng.

......

After Yuri was calmed down, they went back to the Seohyun to check. The opened the door and saw nurse Kyuhyun standing close by, with Yoona seated next to Seohyun.

"I already explained to her relatives, and now I'm going to share her condition to you. She has Cardiomegaly, in other words, heart enlargement."

Yoona stood up, "AND? What will happen to her?"

"She needs a new heart." Kyuhyun said behind the chart, "We'll transplant it, but before that- we have to know if she strong eno--"

"Of course she is! You people shouldn't be in haste, do something-- and do it now!" Yoona yelled, Taeyeon's eyes popped out and Tiffany went to calm Yoona down. Yuri just stood at the doorway.

"There's a small 30% chance for her to live through the surgery." he continued nevertheless despite Yoona's storming, "but the relatives have chosen to get her through that, so..."

Yoona sat down. The clouds reflected what she felt now, gloomy and sad. The thunders clapped and the rain poured heavier as the three girls stood around an unconscious Seohyun, praying that she'll make it through.

......

Yoona opened the door to Seohyun's room and went straight to her cabinet to pack some of her clothes. She searched for blankets, pillows-- any little thing that can help Seohyun through her hospitalization. But before finally zipping the bag close, Yoona jumped in surprise after a flash of lightning shot from the skies.

"Darn."

She zipped the bag close, put it on her other shoulder-- she was ready to go. But then, she stopped in her steps and noticed a few strands of paper (crampled and uncrampled) on Seohyun's desk. She slowly paced towards the table and picked each paper-- reading them silently but loudly by heart...

"Dear Yoona... I'm Mr. Hamster and... I like--"

"Yoona, I have to be honest now... I love you."

"Hey! Mr. Hamster here! I love you Yoona Im!"

"Yoona... I'm sorry for keeping it all hidden for too long, I'm just so scared and unconfident of myself.... I'm scared that you might not accept--"

"Yoona, is it too late?... I love you."

Yoona gripped the paper and let the guilt sink in- Seohyun tried many times now, she tried to write and tell her how she felt but then again, she was yet too scared and hesitant to. This trying side of Seohyun made Yoona's heart ache-- she could have been the braver person, she could have told her first instead of Seohyun (being the confident one)-- she could have proclaimed her love for her, while Seohyun could still hear her and answer back... but now, she can be too late...

there's a thin 30% chance for her and Seohyun to settle down their long hidden feelings for each other.

.......

Jessica closed the scrapbook. She's read it again- and she never gets tired of it. But she knows that it's not for her in the first place, and that this masterpiece was made by her for the person she loves. She smiled, and put the scrapbook against her heart... she was no longer empty, she was no longer in doubt... she has never been so sure in her whole life.

BUT-- she has to give it to that person-- this gift was, in fact, made and molded for that someone. If she missed before, right now- she won't. Now and finally, she will give this scrapbook to whom it belongs to, without hesitation and with full of love.

Jessica pulled her phone from her pocket and looked through the contact list, she clicked on Junho's name and started texting--

"Umm, hey. Let's meet at the park, I have something to give you. I'll be waiting."

She smiled and glanced at her reflection that looked brighter, more cheerful and very warm unlike before. She's ready to love and to finally, give in to what her heart trully feels.

......

Jun ho quickly clapped his mobile phone close and got dressed in less than 5 minutes. He has never been so excited in his life, and with every text message from her-- the he gets the same feeling. He fixed his hair, tidied his shoes and practiced a flash of smile.

"Lee Jun ho, you're one handsome guy."

He snatched his car keys and swifted to the door.

......

'Wait'

Chapter Thirty-eight

"Yoona... you've been standing there for hours now..."

"Yoona you should--"

"I should wait." Yoona said, "I must wait."

Yoona shifted her stare back at the operating room's door. She's been standing there for hours now, tired- wasted and nervous.

"Yoona, listen-- Seohyun wouldn't want you to be that way." Sooyoung said, "C' mon just sit--"

"I don't care if I wait here for hours, okay? It's nothing compared to the pain she's going through and the life she could lose..." she replied without looking at Sooyoung, "All I care about is Seohyun."

Sooyoung and Sunny looked at each other. They pitied how Yoona tried to be strong behind the hopelessness that was obvious behind her eyes.

It's been a day- and the girls have adapted to the scent and aura of the hospital. Taeyeon and Tiffany have gone to buy them food and drinks, while Yuri went off to some place else.

"Gosh-- what's taking those two so long. I'm hungry." Sooyoung groaned. Sunny smiled,

"You're always hungry. Well, I'm guessing that Taeyeon and Tiffany just used that as an excuse for a date-- or maybe, the other kinda date."

Yoona finally moved and placed her back against the wall. Sooyoung and Sunny stood up and approached her, "What's wrong?"

"The lights... they turned them off."

Sooyoung turned and looked at the operating room's window-- the lights finally went out and the people from inside were silenced... but what does that mean?

"No..." Yoona said closing her eyes, "It can't be..."

......

Jun ho sat on the bench. He's been staring at the bouquet of flowers for minutes now-- but he didn't care. He knows that she won't fail her, and that she's just stuck in traffic. He stood up, fixed his sleeve and looked around.

A blond haired girl who had a gift at hand sneaked from his behind. She slowly tiptoed, placed the gift on the bench and covered Jun ho's eyes.

"My my..." Jun ho giggled, "Finally, you're here."

The girl laughed and threw him a hug. She snatched the gift from the bench and pushed it against Jun ho's chest, "Here you go... it's not much but, at least--"

"If it's from you, it's more than enough." Jun ho smiled, fixing the girl's hair. "I'm sure Mrs. Jung will be very happy once we tell them the good news."

The girl smiled back-- and grinned "Yeah, she will be happy."

......

Yuri walked swiftly against the crowd. She put on her hood as a tear escaped from heaven- the people around her pulled out their umbrellas. Yuri didn't mind, all she was thinking about was Jessica.

She looked across the street and saw the park's entrance. She panted as the rain poured harder. She felt the pain erupted again, this time-- from inside and outside. Her vision was blurring and she wanted to faint now. Her legs would move as she would like them to. She took a deep breath and tried hard to run faster towards the park despite the heavy weight that went against her.

"Please wait for me." She whispered as she struggled with every step. "Just a little more Kwon Yuri..."

Yuri was wet all over now, and the people around her turned to look as she hurriedly but weakly searched around.

As if a piano fell on her, Yuri finally collapsed against the wet ground. She fought against her tired eyes as she tried to open the wide- but they wouldn't anymore. She closed them and felt her heart and the bruises around her body throb-- she tried to stand but she wouldn't move anymore. She reminded herself of Jessica- but her mind and body couldn't bare the weakness and pain anymore... after years of hurting, Yuri finally gave in-- at least, her body did.

......

Yoona packed Seohyun's stuff as Sunny and Sooyoung continued talking to the doctor. She wiped a tear from her eye gripped on Seohyun's clothes--

She couldn't say anything anymore, but her strong shell finally cracked and all she could do was let her emotions burst out. Finally, the long wait is over.

"Seohyun, I love you so much."

Sooyoung opened the door. She looked at a crying Yoona and swiftly went to hug her. Sunny joined along and looked up at the ceiling as if saying a prayer with her eyes. Tiffany and Taeyeon stood nearby, hand in hand-- one of them drawing a faint smile across her lips.

......

Jessica looked up at her umbrella-- to the people around them and down to her wet shoes as another minute passed her by. She didn't know why but she has never been so nervous in her life. She looked at the scrapbook she was hugging and made sure that it wasn't wet-- besides, she has to return it to the owner as perfect as possible-- for she deserves it.

"Yuri..." she whispered to herself as the rain drops grew lighter but her heart heavier with fear and worry. The park lights finally went on and the people merrily walked around the park despite the light rain-- this scene made Jessica feel lonely.

......

"The meeting is set this Sunday, so I want this house nice and clean." Mrs. Jung said to the maids. She smiled to herself as she reminded herself that success is near. She's introduced Mr. Jung to Jun ho, now all was left was for Jessica and Jun ho to (finally) meet up with each other.

Mr. Jung looked from afar. He snorted and went back to typing his text message for Jun ho. He smiled and pressed the send button.

"Tomorrow." He whispered from afar as Mrs. Jung continued to nag around. She looked at him and gave him a wide smile- Mr. Jung faked one back and pushed the phone into his pocket.

......

'Finally'

Chapter Thirty-nine

The Sunday morning sunlight woke the sleeping figure as the nurse opened the curtains. She groaned as she tried to open her eyes- as they were still weak from yesterday.

"Miss Kwon, we're glad that you're back. I'm nurse Siwon."

"What happened?"

"You fainted from fatigue, and we've found out that you had bruises all over. The doctor advised your mother to have you confined here for a while. You need to rest and you have to drink supplemental medications for your fatigue- as for the bruises, we've provided the appropriate care and treatment for them last night."

Yuri weakly nodded and smiled at the nurse, "Thank you."

The nurse bowed and left the room. Yuri moved her hands as they were stiff and her legs for they felt numb. She took a deep breath, and suddenly looked around for her cellphone. She has to apologize to Jessica.

"Yuri."

Yuri stopped and stared at where the voice came from. To her relief, she saw a beautiful blond girl standing beside her, with a worried smile painted across her face. She was hugging a scrapbook- but stop doing so as she put it on Yuri's side.

"This belongs to you."

Yuri was curious about the scrapbook- what was this about and why was Jessica giving it to her?

"What is it?" Yuri asked as she tried to sit. Jessica giggled and helped her out.

Yuri pulled the scrapbook and opened it. She started to read- from the first chapter to the next. As she did so, every pain and weakness in her body evaporated. Jessica loved her all along-- and she made this scrapbook just for her. Yuri wanted to cry but she realized that she should be smiling instead- but as she remembered the things they've went through-- their memories lost and found- the accident, Jessica's amnesia, Mrs. Jung's evilness-- EVERYTHING... she couldn't help but break down. Finally, she's done it... they've done it.

"Yuri-ahh..." Jessica said as Yuri closed the scrapbook, "I know that my mind has forgotten, and I have to be honest with that. But mind you, my heart never failed to remind me of you with every beat that it took. My mind was blinded with lies, but I'm happy that my heart never failed to lead me back... and that you never gave up on this... on us."

"I'm not good at expressing, that's why I wrote this for you. I wanted to tell you, I wanted you to have this, I never wanted you to suffer-- but the accident, and my mom... I'm really sorry Yuri... I just want to tell you that I love you so much.. It was you... all along.."

Jessica covered her eyes as tears surged out of them. Yuri quickly embraced her and smiled as she cried as well. The two remained that way for a few minutes-- finally, they're back in each others arms-- back to where they belong.

"Sooyeon." Yuri whispered to Jessica's ear. Jessica closed her eyes- she missed that voice, and the way Yuri used to call her by that name.

"Sooyeon... I suffered, I was in pain, I was close to giving in... but, you know what kept me up? It was you. It was you that kept me going. You helped mold me into a braver and stronger person. It was you who made everything I've been through worthwhile... "

"Because of you, I now know, and I've always know-- what love truly is." Yuri tightened her hug. "All of the times I've wanted to give up, all the suffering and longing for, all the time I've waited-- is nothing compared to this very hour that we're in each other's arms... nothing compared to the feeling that I get when I heard those three words I've been longing for."

They stayed that way- and finally, their hearts weren't beating out of doubt, fear or worry... but otherwise-- out of happiness, relief, trust, assurance, and of most-- love.

......

The two families sat as the maids served the food. Mrs. Jung kept moving as if uncomfortable- and looked up at the wall clock.

"My my... I'm sorry for the inconvenience..." she said, looking across Jessica's empty seat. Jun ho smiled as Mr. Jung wiped his mouth with the table napkin.

"It's okay, I'm sure your daughter has a good reason for it." Mrs. Lee grinned. Mr. Lee continued eating as if not attending to the conversation.

"Mrs. Jung, does Jessica have a boyfriend?" Jun ho let out after swallowing the piece of meat. He saw Mr. Jung smile from the corner of his eye.

"No she doesn't!" Mrs. Jung answered anxiously, "In fact-- she's..."

"Who knows? Maybe it's a girlfriend... Ha-ha!" Mr. Jung indirectly pointed out to Mrs. Jung, as he remembered Kwon Yuri. Mrs. Jung glared at him, as she played with her fingers. "What about you Jun ho? I'm sure that a man like you would have one."

Jun ho nodded, "Actually-- I have something to say..."

Mrs. Jung suddenly turned pale- what was Jun ho trying to say? Did he have a girlfriend? But what about him and Jessica? Despite the nervousness she was feeling, she tried to stay put.

"I've loved this person from the very start. And even when I was far- each word that came out from our letters killed the distance, and suddenly we're near each other by heart." Jun ho said, "If I worked hard before, I'm working even harder now-- because of her. We've waited for so long- and now I'm finally here, and we can be together."

Mrs. Jung smiled as she thought of Jessica. She looked at Mr. Jung. He moved towards her, leaned forward, and whispered - "Don't worry. I know about your plan already. I told him as well."

Mrs. Jung felt relieved as Jun ho continued to talk. The Lees looked at their son with amazement and pride.

"That's why, I decided to marry her."

Mr. Lee choked while Mrs. Lee celebrated. Mrs. Jung beamed as Mr. Jung drew a grin on his face.

He stood beside Jun ho and put his arm across his shoulder, "Nice one man. You should introduce us to the lucky woman then..."

The two of them laughed loudly. Mrs. Jung stopped celebrating, "Wh-Who is it?"

The door opened and a blond girl walked into the room. Jun ho walked to her and kissed her cheek, putting his other arm around her waist. He paced towards his parents as the blond girl greeted them politely-- Mrs. Jung's heart sank.

"This is Kim Hyoyeon, and we're gonna get married soon." Jun ho said, looking straight at Mrs. Jung's eyes. Mrs. Jung faked a smile, and looked around to Mr. Jung with a question mark on her head.

Mr. Jung's smile turned from positive to a negative one.

Hyoyeon beamed sarcastically at Mrs. Jung, as the Lees welcomed the wife to be.

......

"What... I thought you knew the plan..."

"Yes, I know your plan. Your plan about blinding our Sooyeon with lies, and your plan that will actually break her heart in the end." Mr. Jung barked back, closing the room behind him.

"How could you be so evil? And you call yourself a mother?! You could have just told her the truth, you could have taken care of her while I was gone-- but instead, that selfish heart of yours did otherwise!" Mr. Jung shouted as Mrs. Jung stepped back.

"Is this all for money? For fame? You chose to take this path to richness and material success instead of taking the path of truth and love-- and unending happiness FOR YOUR OWN DAUGHTER. And to think, she got in an accident! An accident that changed her life. As a mother, you should've helped remind her of who she really is and who she really loves-- but then again, YOU DID OTHERWISE!"

Mrs. Jung was crying now, on her knees as Mr. Jung panted.

"AND-- not just that. But you inflicted pain and agony to an innocent life who you know in your heart-- has made our daughter happier and better as a person. You had to hurt another one, you had to physically and emotionally batter the one person who made your daughter any happier! Yuri Kwon! Are you not contented? You had to hurt two people?! No, you had to hurt three actually-- that includes ME!"

"I'm taking Sooyeon with me, you failed us- not only as a mother and a wife-- but as a person, of most." He finally finished, walking out of the room. He heard Mrs. Jung scream after him-- but unlike before, that voice was nothing to him anymore.

......

"Awake"

Chapter Forty

A year later.

"Merry Christmas!"

"Yeaaah! Eating time!"

Sooyoung gobbled on the food in front of her as Taeyeon continued to play with the confetti on Tiffany's hair. Yuri was being spoon fed by Jessica, while Jun ho and Hyoyeon continued looking into each others eyes. Yoona stood near the window, her eyes fixed on the christmas lights decored outside.

"Ahaha!" Yuri laughed, as Jessica placed the ice cream on her cheek. Jessica giggled and kissed it away. Taeyeon and Tiffany looked at Yulsic,

"Oh noo. We can't let them beat us." Taeyeon said under her breath, Tiffany just laughed at her and threw her a tight hug. "My Taengooo! I love you sooo much!" she said playfully. Taeyeon groaned and patted her.

"Tiffany, that cute voice of yours is awkard." she lied, for it actually made her feel nice inside. Tiffany pouted, Taeyeon smiled and kissed her lightly.

"Yaaah! Look at the couples around the room! They're all having their sweet moments! Look at you! Just concentrating on your food, eh! Hmff!" Sunny complained as Sooyoung continued to gobble. Sooyoung chuckled and resumed to eating.

The door opened.

"Yaah! Why are you late?"

Seohyun walked to them and bowed. She greeted everyone in the room, and stopped to look at a lonely Yoona. A small smile drew on her face, but a bigger one glittered inside her heart.

"Yoona."

Yoona quickly turned to her and unhesitantly hugged her. The hug was so tight that Seohyun scattered thoughts and feelings were suddenly put into place.

"Finally... Seohyun I love you so much and..."

"Yoona, I love you too."

Seohyun leaned forward and kissed Yoona. The kiss was long but very descent. The love flowed out of them as they continued. The other couples 'awwed' as the two drowned in their moment.

"You keep saying that as if we didn't go out for a year now..." Seohyun said to Yoona as they ate. Yoona looked at her and patted the little maknae,

"Everytime you're not with me, I'm reminded of all the moments I've wasted on holding my feelings back. I'm reminded on the day you were hospitalized, how I almost lost you-- how I was almost too late. Everytime I remember that I---"

"Yoona, that's the past. I'm here, don't worry--" Seohyun said, "Let's concentrate on 'now', shall we?"

She rested her head on Yoona's shoulders as Yoona stopped the tears from her eyes. Yuri and Jessica looked at them, turned to each other and grinned at the same time. Taeyeon and Tiffany played with each other, while Sunny's complaining continued to float around the room as Sooyoung enjoyed this and her meal. Jun ho massaged a pregnant Hyoyeon's tummy, while Yoona and Seohyun held hands under the table.

Everyone else was confident that these moments will last through thick and thin-- through everything-- through love.

......

The first drop of snow. They say that the first drop of snow witnessed by a couple is a sign of great luck and life to come for them. I remember how my mom shared this to me when I was little, how she told me the story of my dad and her witnesssing it in a cold december night. That night, according to her, will always be stamped in her heart.

My mom lost my dad a year later. We lost him, and from that day on- I became so angry towards winter- towards that single drop of snow that signals the start of the season. I blamed it all on that 'drop of snow', I blamed it for taking him away. I was born in December, and ironically- I hated it.

But then again...

......

Yuri looked up and continued to hold Jessica in. She felt Jessica sneezed and giggled at its 'cuteness'. "Are you cold?"

"No, you keep me warm." Jessica said under her scarf. Yuri hugged her tighter as the cold air went against them. "Are you sure that it's gonna happen tonight?"

"Yes." Yuri said, staring up at the dark sky. "They say that a couple that will witness the first drop of snow will experience a great love life ahead- you want that right?"

Jessica giggled, "You're so cute... sharing stories like that. Well, I want that but-- I think we're already great."

Yuri looked down at a blushing Jessica and gently swayed her around. They've been together for a year, but it felt as if it was a lot longer than that. Those years of pain, longing, waiting, holding on-- we're nothing compared to this very moment that they spent, and will always spend. Suddenly, everything seemed a dream- and now thay are awake.

"Snow! Snowy!" Jessica called out, pointing up at the sky. Yuri let go of her and glittered as she saw the first drop of snow coming towards them. She quickly embraced Jessica and closed her eyes tightly. Jessica did the same. "Okay Sooyeon! Make a wish!"

Yuri felt the cold drop on the tip of her nose. She smiled while eyes still closed, and leaned forward as her nose met with Jessica's. She wiggled and Jessica did the same.

"You done?" Jessica called out to Yuri. Yuri opened her eyes without answering and moved closer to Jessica. Jessica's eyes were still shut. Yuri smiled, and in that moment- she realized how much she loved Jessica more with every second that they spent. She kissed her. They kissed passionately under the drops of snow that followed.

"I used to hate snow, but now I love it." Yuri said, after their lips parted. She pulled Jessica in by the scarf, the tip of their noses met, and they felt each other's breath. She felt Jessica's fingers travel up to her chest to her shoulder.

"Why?"

"Because of this." Yuri briefly answered. Jessica grinned and kissed Yuri again. The snowy scene continued to grow colder as the two hearts that used to be filled with coldness, trouble, and the like- were now showered, and will continually be showered-- with warmth, love... and the like.

......

But then again...

that myth about the first drop of snow, is nothing compared to what love can bring and do to you and your life. Through love, through this experience with Jessica, my Sooyeon- I finally let go of the sad memory of the snow and my dad and replace it with the great and never-ending feeling of confidence and assurance of my love for Jessica, how we made it through, how we can go against all odds-- how our love can make everything possible.

Love surpasses everything-- those myths, obstacles, and even 'what is written'. Love is something that depends on those two people who are involved-- not on the 'script', 'fate' or whatever it is that goes against them. We are in love, and will always be.

......

Yuri pulled the purple heart necklace from her jacket, and put it around Jessica's neck. Now, everything else is in place.

"It was you, it is you-- and it will always be you."

......

*Okay, look at the title ''It was You.'' closely. It's actually a spoiler to the story. Hehe! For the mysterious tutor, stalker, Mr. Hamster, Soo, Jun ho-- and everything else.

*Jessica found out about Yuri in those 2 weeks. I've deleted the chapter, since I wanted to end the chapter with '40'. But here's what happened: She read the scrapbook up to the last line, and was later enlightened (and bothered) that all the four chapters initials, (Yellow Rubber Boat, Under the Oak Tree, Riding the Red Scooter, and Inside the Tree House) spell out Y-U-R-I. Also, after that-- everything else came back after she reminisced on how she felt when she was with Yuri, how Yuri spoke, Yuri's past, how Yuri saved her from the swimming pool, about Mrs. Jung-- all of these factors enlightened Jessica, and with that her memories came back to life. After being enlightened and being aware of Mrs. Jung's disappointing and evil plan, and after seeing Yuri's bruises (which supported her theory)-- Jessica finally FINALIZES that Yuri IS the Jun ho in her mind. After this, she renames 'Yuri' into 'Junho' in her phone's contact list to hide her and patiently waits for Yuri to confess. But then, she grew impatient-- and texts YURI to meet her at the park. But after she sees her collapse in the park-- she takes her to the hospital and later gives her the scrapbook. *pants*

*Do you guys remember Sooyoung saying 'One down, two to go--" and "Two down, one to go"? She was pertaining to Mr. Jung and Jun ho. Sunny and Sooyoung told them about Mrs. Jung's plan and Yulsic beforehand-- Mr. Jung and Jun ho just chose to look for a good timing to 'pawn' Mrs. Jung.

......

......

Finally, it ends.

Thank you for the unforgettable emotion and posts you've shared, I'm really gon miss the times when I'd hurry up and go home from a busy day and read your somewhat stress-relieving and lovable posts... aww. :l Also, thank you for giving me room for improvement (through your posts). I will write better in the future!

and of most- thank you for supporting my debut fiction, "It was You.". I'd like to thank my early subscribers (you know who you are), the readers who subscribed and kept me updated with their posts, and Desiatch (you know why). I'm really greatful for each and everyone of you... Anyway, I'm really sad that the fic's ending but hey, at least they are all happy right? Hehe.

I do hope that this fic will continue to be active for more readers to read, I hope I hope... 'cause I really worked hard on the plot-- too hard that it's already confusing, keke~ but I hope it ended up alright for you guys.

......