Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Minji was still mortified about her behaviour on Tuesday, even though Bora was very nice about it.

As someone who only had a drink or two on rare occasion, she often wondered where her limit actually was. She found it. And crashed through it with a wrecking ball.

How unbecoming.

But at least she discovered things about herself.

Minji had already been feeling warm and fuzzy before the alcohol, because Bora's invitation and concern into her personal life had her walking on cloud nine, for some reason. Minji just found it touching that someone was so invested in her beyond her productivity.

And then she started drinking beer, and eating comforting food, and even while lamenting her professional life, she found she couldn't feel as down about it as she could have. Because she got to trace Bora's bone structure over and over with her eyes. And counted every mole. And noticed how when Bora was being a little mischievous, her teeth would just barely poke through a thin smile in an adorable way.

And then the Kaoliang liquor came.

And Minji… preferred not to think much about what happened after that. It made her want to shove her face into a pillow and scream.

But she remembered how it felt later on, after she had fallen asleep on the couch. She had started off comfy, relieved that the world was no longer spinning as much.

And then she was plagued with the images of everyone in her life disappointed in her. The executives. The clients. Her co-workers. Gahyun. Her parents. Her teachers.

Bora.

And then there was a soft, soothing sound.

It had woken her up.

She opened her eyes to see Bora playing her guitar and humming. Minji didn't know if Bora was playing for her or was just playing to play. But it was comforting and warm. And Bora looked so pretty sitting there and picking at the strings. Her side profile was like something sculpted from the luminescent light of a full moon filtering through the trees on a warm summer night.

And then she watched Bora put her pick between her teeth, and Minji felt her heart jump into her throat, and her stomach do a million flip flops.

How was anyone that attractive?

And then Minji realized she was attracted to Bora. Truly attracted to her. Not just finding her objectively aesthetically pleasing.

Minji had shut her eyes again, because she felt weird yearning for her host like that all of a sudden. Or maybe not all of a sudden. Probably always, but it was so much clearer to her now just what the emotions she was feeling now were when she looked at Bora.

Even with her eyes shut, she immediately started fantasizing about Bora coming over to her, stroking her face, gathering Minji into her arms and holding her close so Minji could tuck her face into that collarbone, breathe her in.

These were not straight thoughts to have about another woman. Nor was the warmth that flooded her chest at the thought of Bora enveloping her very straight either.

It was comforting enough, along with Bora's playing, that she had been able to fall back into a dreamless slumber. She had slept far longer than she meant to, as well.

When she awoke, the feelings hadn't faded. They were as strong as ever, as she looked at Bora's concerned smile, her heart thudding in her own ears.

Minji blamed the warmth she felt in her chest as well as the warmth in her head from any leftover buzz she had been feeling for why she ever thought it was appropriate to just lean in and even think about kissing Bora.

Luckily, a last minute reality check caught her. Thank god. It would've been way harder to recover if she had followed through.

But she still felt shivers whenever she thought about how her lips had briefly touched Bora's.

The shivers were coupled with shame. Because she didn't know how Bora felt about her. Just because Minji had her gay awakening didn't mean that Bora had. If Bora even had a gay to awaken.

Minji supposed Bora could be flirtatious, but some people were just naturally like that. It didn't mean anything. Gahyun could be naturally flirtatious. Though Gahyun only really showed that side of herself if she was actually trying to get their attention, or trying to butter them up for some reason…

And when Minji apologized for her clumsiness, Bora had said it was "more than okay".

More than okay.

Why had she said it like that?

This whole having a social life thing was confusing. Her job might be hell, but at least she almost always knew what she needed to do next to try to move forward.

How did she move forward with Bora? They had promised they would see each other next Tuesday, but then what? Would they acknowledge the almost-kiss? Should they? Should Minji confess? If she did, and Bora looked at her with pity and said she didn't feel the same, Minji wasn't sure she could ever get herself to go to that bridge on another Tuesday ever again.

And that would be… devastating. Minji losing her biggest respite from her job might destroy her.

The irony was that now Minji was using her job as respite from thinking about how to proceed with Bora and what it might look like, no matter what path she chose. Minji just kept her head down. All she focused on that week was work.

Minus the times where she could text Bora throughout the week, of course.

So she was a little obsessed.

It wasn't her fault, though! Bora texted her first, making sure she got home okay. And then thanking her, because she had gotten a few streams of her music. Which made Minji prideful.

And then Minji would complain about work. And then Bora would tell her what she was doing that day to help distract Minji from overworking. Which made Minji in turn just text Bora about random shit, from anything about how her coffee tasted to how much she liked it when she could hear the rain against the window in her office to how much she was craving a bánh mì she had tried once, to—

Okay, maybe she was a lot of obsessed. But to her credit, Bora was meeting her halfway and texting her about random stuff as well.

It was giving Minji some hope that any awkwardness was forgotten and things could go back to how they were. Maybe Minji didn't have to have any life-altering conversations that Tuesday.

And then a text came in on Monday from Bora.

Wanna hang out again after my busking set?

Minji's heart started pounding at the words on her screen, but her fingers moved faster than her brain.

Yes

Had that been too fast of a response? Did it seem desperate?

But Bora's response came in quickly, too.

lol okay I'll plan something so you don't have to worry about it. just show up looking cute as always

Minji's heart was pounding again. That was flirty, right? Bora was flirting?Flirt?ing?

She was short circuiting.

Because was Bora asking because last time was fun despite everything, or because she felt bad for Minji again, or was she asking as a proper date?

She couldn't bury herself in work to avoid thinking about these questions this time. Outwardly, Minji was the picture of professionalism. Inwardly, she was chewing through the drywall.

She needed a second opinion.

"Gahyun," Minji thrust her phone into Gahyun's face the moment she hung up a call with someone during her secretarial duties. "Read this. Tell me if you think it's a date."

Gahyun let out a sigh, but she quickly scanned the screen.

"I'm not paid enough for this," Gahyun muttered, raising her eyebrow. "Honestly, instead of getting your co-worker to interpret a text from someone she doesn't know, why don't you just ask?"

Minji blinked rapidly.

"Is… is that allowed? Aren't there rules about these things? All the dramas I've watched have led me to believe you have to sort of dance around the subject," Minji theorized.

Gahyun let out a groan.

And she snatched Minji's phone.

"Here," Gahyun huffed, typing quickly. "There."

Minji quickly took the phone back and looked at it.

Is this a date?

"…Gahyun," Minji glared.

"You're welcome," Gahyun smiled innocently.

"Gahyun, this company better put a job posting for another secretary because I'm about to kill you—"

Another text came in.

I'd like for it to be.

Minji let out a gasp.

"She said she wants it to be! She said! She wants it! To be! Ahh!" Minji tried to keep her voice down, but her professionalism was slowly seeping out the seams.

"See, you're welcome," Gahyun shrugged. "Now reassure her or something. I bet she's as freaked out as you are."

"Oh, right," Minji looked down at her phone, but then looked back Gahyun with a glare. "That was a serious breach of boundaries though, Gah! I'm upset at you!"

"Worth it to save you several hours of agonizing," Gahyun tutted her tongue. "Is her profile picture of her? Congrats on stepping outside once and immediately bagging a baddie."

Minji blushed, scowling, and turned away as if protecting her phone and Bora.

I'd like that, too.

Minji let out a sigh. That was it. No taking it back now.

Each agonizing moment she didn't get a reply felt like she was in the midst of spaghettification a la black hole.

But if Bora was a black hole, Minji would jump in every time.

Finally a response.

Then I guess I'll make sure I show up looking cute, too <3

Minji looked up from her phone, grinning.

"I have a date tomorrow," Minji beamed. Then her face fell along with the pit in her stomach. "Oh my god, I have a date tomorrow."

"Don't worry. I'll walk you through any preparations," Gahyun shook her head. "I'm definitely not paid enough for this."

Despite Gahyun's grumbling, she did assist Minji the whole way, from helping her pick out a cute outfit to change into quickly once she could get out work, to telling her what to expect, and of course, giving her a ton of pep talks.

But most of all, she told Minji to just have fun.

"And congrats on maybe your first girlfriend," Gahyun had winked, which made Minji miss Bora's awkward blink winking.

But those words in particular stuck with Minji.

Girlfriend?

That's what usually happened with these types of things, right?

You go on dates, you develop stronger feelings, you maybe establish a more committed relationship after a few months…

Minji knew relationships were a big time commitment. For good reason. And that's why she never sought one out. She knew she'd never have the time to give one proper attention.

She could only barely get Tuesday evenings off, and that was mostly thanks to Gahyun and some of her team members covering for her. She was swamped the rest of the time. She'd never get away with taking other evenings off. Even during the weekends. That was mostly when she made up for her Tuesdays so that the executives wouldn't get suspicious.

Was this fair to Bora? If Bora wanted something more than a casual date night every Tuesday… she was probably going to be disappointed.

And it's not like Minji didn't want to see Bora more often either. She just… couldn't.

Maybe it was a mistake to get both their hopes up like this. A date that couldn't go any further? It didn't sit well with Minji. Bora deserved more.

Minji was feeling full of regret as she walked toward the pedestrian bridge. She wasn't sure what to do. Should she just call the whole thing off? That felt cruel, to both of them.

But would it be just as cruel dragging this out when Minji couldn't make the commitment?

And then Minji saw Bora.

And all her worries melted away.

She's gorgeous.

Minji missed just looking at her, but Bora hadn't been kidding. She really did make sure she was cute for today. All dolled up.

Minji couldn't let all that effort go to waste.

She would enjoy the night, and make sure Bora had fun, too.

They would talk more about the logistics later.

Not usually how Minji operated, but the floaty feeling Minji got just from looking at Bora's smile as she approached made her forget all of that.

"Hey, beautiful," Bora smirked, and Minji's stomach jumped off the high wire and slammed into the mat.

Right, they established they were going on a date. All pretense was tossed aside. Bora's flirty side could come out at full force.

Scary prospect.

"Hi," Minji gave a shy, awkward wave that made Bora giggle.

"Glad you came. Wasn't sure if I was dreaming or not," Bora smiled sweetly, and Minji blushed.

"You look lovely," Minji muttered, tucking her hair behind her ear.

"Special occasion, I guess," Bora shrugged.

"You always look lovely!" Minji said quickly, pouting. Though she had to admit, the cherry-red lipstick Bora chose to wear that day was quite striking. Bora usually had an edge to her in her style, but today it was much softer and elegant.

Bora was the one blushing now, nearly matching her lips.

"Well thank you," Bora chuckled. "But I had to look extra nice today. I have a date after this."

For some reason, Minji's stomach twisted almost painfully in envy for whoever Bora was about to see after this.

As if the person wasn't her.

Wow, having a crush really does mess with someone's internal logic. Minji suddenly understood why all those people in dramas were acting so irrationally.

But at least she could use this as inspiration.

"Oh, really? I'm a little jealous," Minji teased, and Bora grinned.

"You have no reason to be jealous of anyone," Bora winked, and again failed, and she let out a groan. "Why do I even bother?"

Minji let out a laugh, feeling more at ease already.

"Please never stop trying. It brings me joy every time," Minji urged. Bora turned away shyly, tuning her guitar.

"Well if it brings you joy…" Bora mumbled. "Hopefully my set today will bring you joy, too."

"Always does," Minji beamed. "I will listen diligently."

Minji gave a polite bow which made Bora laugh.

"So proper. Hope you know we're past that point," Bora shook her head.

"Maybe. But I still respect you," Minji insisted.

"Shocking, considering last time I got you drunk," Bora looked sheepish.

"And yet you conducted yourself very respectfully. It's impressive now, since I know how you feel," Minji tilted her head. Bora tore her head away, but not before Minji could see the blush deepening on Bora's face.

"You… deserve my respect as well," Bora mumbled, and she cleared her throat. "I better start playing before you distract me for my entire slot from being too cute."

"That would be tragic for me and everyone walking along here," Minji smiled. Bora smiled backed, tested the microphone, and started playing.

Even though Bora's music always gave Minji a sense of satisfaction, of release, like a breath she was holding onto, Minji still couldn't shake the feeling of anxious excitement at what the evening might bring.

This beautiful, talented woman agreed to go on a date with her. This musician, who sang with her entire soul, who looked like a goddess while doing so, was going on a date with her. Minji had that privilege.

aaaaaaaa

The anticipation grew as Bora got closer to finishing her set (and more people scanned her QR code — it was not lost on Minji that Bora brought it again), and Minji couldn't help but notice even Bora's angrier songs sounded much lighter today. Maybe it was just her imagination.

With a final chord and high note, Bora finished her set, and immediately shot Minji the widest grin Minji had ever seen. Clearly Bora had been thinking of what came after the set the whole time, too.

"Do I even have to say it? You were amazing," Minji sighed.

"You're motivating me to write new music. I can't just have you listening to the same thing every week," Bora mused. "Luckily, I already am working on something I think you'll like."

Minji's heart soared.

"This day is only getting better," Minji breathed.

"And it's only just begun," Bora smirked. "Sorry to put you to work but I'll have to drop all this off at my place before we get the date started proper…"

"Got it, I can help no problem," Minji nodded, grabbing what she could. "This isn't the real reason you asked to hang out after, is it?"

"I can have multiple reasons," Bora teased, and Minji laughed along.

Bora made Minji feel so… comfortable. Even when they were lugging heavy equipment several blocks. Bora had to invest in a cart or something next.

(When they got to Bora's apartment, Minji saw Miss Han practically pressed against the window waving to them. Minji could've sworn that Bora was glaring at her)

"Alright," Bora was dusting off her hands after she came down from dropping everything off in her apartment. "We're going a little farther today so I'll have to call us a car, if that's okay."

"Do I get to know where you're taking me?" Minji inquired. Bora let out a hum.

"Are you a big planner? Or do you rather spontaneity?" Bora questioned. Minji tilted her head.

"By nature of my job, I have to be a planner," Minji sighed, making Bora tut her tongue.

"I want tonight to stick out in your mind, so I'll have you operate a little differently than you're used to," Bora stated. "Just enjoy the ride."

"This is already abnormal for me. I think it'll stick out no matter what," Minji admitted.

"In a good way?" Bora smiled.

Minji nodded.

"Definitely a good way," she confirmed. Bora hummed again.

"I'll make sure it stays that way. I think you'll like our first stop. I did my research," Bora promised. Minji blinked at her.

"What does that mean?" Minji asked curiously. In response, Bora reached out and lightly tapped Minji on the nose.

"Remember? Just enjoy the ride."

Turned out the first stop was a fancy Vietnamese café. As soon as they got out of the car, Minji could smell the potency of the roasted beans. It practically made her mouth water.

"Wow! I've heard of this place. I've always wanted to go," Minji marvelled. "How did you know?"

"You said you were craving bánh mì and you were complaining that your coffee at work wasn't strong enough. I figured this place would fix both problems," Bora explained, and then looked over to see Minji staring at her with a pouty face and watery eyes. "What?"

"This is… so sweet. You really paid attention to all my random messages?" Minji gushed. Bora giggled.

"Of course I did," Bora shook her head. "About time someone thought of your needs instead of you thinking about a company's needs. Come on, let's get a table."

Minji's heart felt full as she followed Bora inside. She was already such a wonderful host. So attentive.

It was making Minji regret even more that they couldn't do this every day.

But she was determined to enjoy what she could, and Bora made that easy.

They sat with their delicious sandwiches and strong coffee, and they just talked, got to know each other better. Minji learned that Bora had been inspired to get into music at a young age when she was so shy in school she wouldn't talk to anybody, so her parents got her a piano so she could try to express herself. It was funny, because Bora now had no trouble expressing herself and was such a social butterfly.

And Minji explained a lot of the pressure for success came from her parents, who were both in very prestigious office jobs. But Minji worked for everything she had herself, and she enjoyed her work. She enjoyed relating to people, understanding them, figuring out their needs, and then finding a way to get them exactly what they wanted. It's just the dehumanizing aspect was… less than ideal.

They also talked of their friends. Minji assured Bora that her co-worker, Gahyun, was looking out for her well-being as well, and Bora seemed relieved that someone was keeping Minji on her feet during the week. And Bora told Minji about Yubin and her music, and even played a bit for her. Minji commented that talented people stuck together.

The time passed by so smoothly, like a blink and suddenly the sun was a lot lower in the sky. Minji cursed the passage of time, because she just wanted to sit there and learn more and more about Bora. She was feeling greedy.

But Bora had other plans, checking her phone.

"You ready to go? We're running out of time to get to our next location," Bora mused.

"And I'm guessing you aren't going to tell me where we're going?" Minji smirked.

"You're getting it," Bora giggled. "Come on. It's walking distance."

"You organized this well," Minji noted, following after Bora. Bora laughed.

"When I told Yubin how much thought I put into this, she teased me a lot. I'm usually the spontaneous one," Bora admitted.

"Guess we're both subverting expectations for ourselves this time," Minji mused. "I'm touched you would go out of your way."

"You… made me wanna put in the effort. And you made it feel easy," Bora blushed. "I hope you're not too uncomfortable, putting all the trust in me."

"I'm very comfortable," Minji promised.

"Good," Bora grinned. "You might feel differently once we get where we're going, but don't worry, I'll help you as much as possible."

Minji sighed, shaking her head, "I won't even ask. I'm just along for the ride."

Bora giggled, practically skipped ahead a bit in excitement, which was adorable. She seemed so carefree in so many ways, where Minji was always stuck in a more structured, rigid mindset. But Bora made her want to bounce around like a rabbit. Maybe like she always wanted to, but she repressed it this whole time, and Bora brought it out.

Something else she was repressing was her strong desire to take Bora's hand. Because it was a date, right? So that was okay? And she had done it before, at Bora's front door. But there were different implications then.

And there were a lot of people around.

Minji cursed her need to keep up appearances. Two girls holding hands would be overlooked, because friends often did that, too. But Minji just had a feeling if she held Bora's hand, it would be a big neon sign pointing at her, just from Minji not being able to hold back what she was feeling.

But, ugh, she wanted to feel that hand in hers. To feel the callouses from the guitar strings. Minji would like that a lot.

But she never built up the nerve by the time they arrived at an unassuming building.

"Here we are," Bora announced. "Hope you're ready to unleash some frustrations."

Minji had some frustrations alright. Mostly at herself. But her curiosity overrode most of that.

"An archery range?" Minji questioned as they walked inside. "I've never shot a bow before."

"Perfect," Bora beamed. "You ever wanted to visualize shooting your executives in the face? This is your chance. It was either this or a gun range. I figured bows had a bit more whimsy~"

"I agree," Minji nodded. "I just don't know how well I'll do."

"I'll teach you all I know. Come on," Bora urged, and they went up to the employee to get access to a booth and all their protective gear on.

"This is heavier than I thought," Minji breathed. "And the string is really hard to pull."

"Careful, don't wanna catch your fingers," Bora warned. "Here. Watch me. Watch my form and take note of what I'm doing. Then you can try."

"Ah, so this was an excuse for getting me to look at you?" Minji joked. Bora let out a giggle.

"I can have multiple reasons," Bora teased.

She then took aim at the target. Minji didn't really have a point of reference, but it looked like perfect form.

"This is for all the times your bosses didn't appreciate you," Bora muttered.

And then the arrow was let loose.

And it buried itself into the near-middle of the target.

"Oh my god!" Minji cheered. "You're good at this."

"There have been… a lot of people in my life I've wanted to shoot in the head," Bora admitted sheepishly. "This place has probably kept me off the news several times."

"Commendable," Minji mused. "I hope you don't expect me to do the same."

"My expectations are you to have fun," Bora smiled. "Now you try."

Bora passed the bow over to Minji, who looked at it, confused.

"So, uh, walk me through it?" Minji requested.

"Thought you were looking at me," Bora teased.

"I was! I was just… distracted," Minji muttered. Bora beamed proudly.

"Alright. Feet shoulder width apart. Point toe 90 degrees," Bora explained. "Then raise bow."

Minji did everything Bora asked, though it still all felt unnatural.

Then Minji felt a small body at her back, and hands on hers, placing them in the right places.

"Hold here… and here… like this… elbow at this level… there you go," Bora's breath tickled Minji's ear. "And place the arrow here… pull taut… have the string rest… about here…"

Minji's heart was pounding, blood rushing between her ears, just feeling the way Bora was against her, practically holding her.

She could feel the callouses of Bora's fingers.

"Focus on the target. Breathe," Bora whispered.

Minji took in a deep breath. She felt her back press against Bora's torso.

She felt Bora's lips against her ear.

"Show those executives what for."

Minji let the arrow go, and she felt it flick past her nose.

The arrow ended up imbedded in the outer edge of the target. Not very impressive, but at least she hit it at all.

"Hey! There you go! You hit your target first try!" Bora grinned, stepping away. Minji already missed her warmth.

"I had a good teacher," Minji breathed, heart in her throat. Bora giggled, patting Minji on the back.

"Well, now you know how it works, wanna make a game out of it?" Bora questioned. "We'll keep score. Whoever wins gets to decide where we go next."

"That's not fair. You're obviously going to win," Minji scoffed. Bora raised a finger, a twinkle in her eyes.

"Ah-ah! I think you'll do better than you believe," Bora insisted. "Plus, I know you business world types. You do your best when there's competition."

Minji gave Bora a challenging leer, a smile dancing on her face.

"Fine. You're on," Minji accepted. Bora clicked her tongue.

"Let's see what you've got."

To Minji's surprise, she did far better than she thought. She was shocked she even retained anything from Bora's lesson. She was too focused on, well. Bora.

But she actually hit the target most of the time! To the point that Bora almost started sweating.

…Until Bora revealed she had been shooting with her non-dominant hand, and switched in the last round to win handily.

"Oh, come on," Minji whined, seeing the final score tallied up. "That's cheating."

"I was giving you a chance," Bora chuckled.

"You still switched to your hands to make sure you could win in the end," Minji pouted. Bora actually looked a little guilty.

"You did better than I expected. Besides," Bora sighed. "I do have a plan I didn't want to mess with. And I guess I wanted to impress you."

"I am impressed. But I still feel hustled," Minji huffed, crossing her arms.

Bora sighed, and lifted a hand to cup Minji's face.

"I'll make it up to you. I promise," Bora assured.

Minji melted, her face growing hot under Bora's hand.

"Okay," Minji dropped her arms, relenting.

Damn, she was putty in Bora's hands. Minji was realizing she had zero backbone when it came to Bora. All she had to do was smile at her.

Minji was somehow okay with this.

"So what's your wish for what we do next?" Minji questioned. Bora removed her hand and placed a finger against her own lips thoughtfully.

"I'm not cashing it in yet," Bora stated. "Let's get some air first. Looks like the sun is about to set."

"Feels like you're cashing it in anyway, but okay," Minji sighed. "Lead the way."

Bora grinned at her.

"Thank you for being along for the ride," Bora expressed.

They headed out, and luckily the Han River wasn't too far away. The sky was filled with pinks and purples and oranges as Bora led them to walk alongside the river, the coolness of the evening breeze refreshing them.

It was a nice night, so there were a lot of people taking a walk as well, which was unfortunate for Minji. She still couldn't build up the nerve to take Bora's hand.

Fortunately, she didn't need to. It wasn't long into their stroll that Minji felt a small hand envelop hers, and give her a squeeze.

They smiled brightly and shyly at each other, and Minji and her pounding heart were grateful that Bora was far better at taking initiative in this instance. Turned out, being a go-getter at work didn't translate the same when it came to dating. She was happy to let Bora take the lead.

This was the happiest Minji had felt in recent memory. She thought closing a deal made her happy, but… the nice evening, Bora's hand in hers, the memories thus far, the anticipation of what was to come?

Nothing beat it.

"Looks like the sun is about to go to sleep," Bora pointed out, pulling Minji over to a railing along the river. "Let's tell it goodnight together."

"Goodnight, sun," Minji expressed. "Thank you for a wonderful Tuesday."

Bora let out a chuckle, "It's definitely one of my favourite Tuesdays of all time," she mused. "I've been having a lot of good Tuesdays, lately."

"Me too," Minji sighed, watching the sliver of light peeking over the horizon. Bora let out a sigh as well.

"You know, I'm very glad you asked if this was a date. I'm glad I got to treat it like one," Bora contemplated. "I was very impressed that you asked, by the way. It was very cool of you."

"Oh. About that," Minji blushed. "Gahyun, remember the co-worker I told you about? She grabbed my phone and asked… for me."

Bora blinked at this admittance.

And then she laughed.

"Now I'm even more impressed. You could've just taken all the credit. Aren't corporate workers supposed to scheme way more? I never expected such honesty," Bora teased, bumping Minji slightly with her hip. Minji chuckled sheepishly.

"I… try to have some integrity. I'm also a bad liar. It's my biggest weakness but also my greatest strength. I think a lot of the clients I get to sign on only do so because they can tell I'm being sincere," Minji explained. Bora shook her head.

"You really are one of a kind, Minji," Bora sighed, looking back at the sunset. "Either way it happened, I'm glad somebody stepped in to make sure this was a date. Usually I would've made that clear. But something about you made me… hesitate."

"How so?" Minji looked over at Bora, curious.

"Didn't want to lose you," Bora said plainly. "I mean it, Minji. You're one of a kind. And if I had scared you off, I'd never forgive myself."

"Bora…" Minji frowned. Bora looked at Minji earnestly.

"I really like you. Have since the moment I saw you and I've only been justified in that as I've gotten to know you better. I hope this isn't too presumptuous, but I hope we can keep doing this in the future," Bora expressed. Minji took in a deep breath.

"I really like you, too. You make me feel… so much. Not just your music," Minji mumbled. "But Bora… you know what my professional life is like."

"I do."

"I'm very busy."

"I know."

"And I really want to keep this up, too. But I just want to be realistic. I only have Tuesdays."

"I know."

"So if you're okay with just us having a night a week that's our night…" Minji trailed off, feeling guilty. Bora gave her a sad smile.

"It's not ideal. But that just shows how much I enjoy your company. Of course I wish we could do this everyday, but…" Bora let out a sigh. "I knew going in that this would probably have to stay casual. It's okay. I'll take what I can get of you."

"You sure?" Minji blinked. Bora nodded.

"We're still getting to know each other anyway. But no pressure. I know your job is important to you. Just… I hope our date night can stay important to you, too," Bora requested. Minji, again, melted.

"Of course it will. I'll be living every day looking forward to our night," Minji promised, and Bora smiled.

"Then I'll make sure the time we get together is worth it," Bora stated. She closed her eyes, leaning her head back, the last of the sunlight cascading over her face as the breeze jostled a few loose strands of hair. "I'm ready to cash in my winnings."

Minji's heart rate picked up.

"Yeah?" Minji's eyes rapidly searched Bora's expression, trying to find some clue.

"Mhm," Bora confirmed, her eyes opening. "I wish… for you to choose what we do next."

Minji stared at her.

And then she raised her arm incredulously.

"Then what was the point of the competition!" Minji huffed while Bora erupted in a fit of giggles.

"Heh, sorry cutie. To be honest, my plan was to always let you win, but when you were doing so well, my own competitive side took over," Bora admitted with a grin. "Ironic, considering I poked fun at your job field being competitive."

"Guess the music industry is pretty competitive too," Minji smirked, shaking her head. "Why do you want me to choose?"

"It's the ultimate chance to be spontaneous. You haven't planned anything. You've just been following me around. Now, I want to know what you want. No forethought. Just, anything you want to do. We'll go do it," Bora promised.

Minji absorbed Bora's words, internalized them, and then once again felt her heart rate increase.

Not even her most stressful days in the office made Minji's heart rate go this wild, she swore.

What did she want?

She wanted to do exactly what she was doing, being with Bora, every day.

But that was impossible. She would have to lose her job, and she just… couldn't do that. After everything she worked for.

But what did she want that was possible right now?

Bora already solved that. She had wanted to hold Bora's hand so badly. And now she was. And it felt perfect.

But she could do better than that. Bora was right. Minji could be competitive. And Bora had taken initiative on everything thus far during their date. She couldn't let herself be shown up.

Even though it made her heart get stuck in her throat.

"I want to kiss you," Minji whispered.

The smile that slowly formed on Bora's face shone brightly in the evening.

"Yeah? You gonna follow through this time?" Bora teased, but Minji's expression remained serious as she shifted forward slightly.

"Is it okay?" Minji requested softly. Bora's expression grew serious, too. She nodded, her eyelids already heavy.

"More than okay."

Minji took a deep breath, and she watched Bora shut her eyes, and this time Minji followed through, not caring about anyone walking by. She basically forgot anyone else exist, the moment her lips pressed against Bora's.

They were so soft. And they moved against her lips so well. Minji shouldn't have been surprised that Bora had a good sense of rhythm. Though Minji initiated the kiss, she let Bora take over. She almost had no choice. There was an eagerness in that Minji found incredibly cute. But she couldn't judge. Minji was just as eager.

She turned into Bora, craving the feeling of having her against her during the archery lesson. They leaned into each other, deepening the kiss, Minji's fingers curling at the hem of Bora's nice blouse, and she felt Bora gasp a little when her fingers brushed against her stomach.

It clued into Minji now that that must've driven Bora crazy. She understood, because she now felt the hunger in the pit of her stomach, too. The desire to feel those calloused fingers against her skin.

Minji had thought a kiss would've been more than enough. But she really was greedy. And she was tired of holding back in favour of having a plan.

"Bora," Minji breathed between kisses.

"Mm?" Bora grunted.

"We only have — one night — a week —" Minji muttered out when she could.

"Don't remind me," Bora growled, pulling Minji closer, as if to devour her. It made Minji's head spin. It also bolstered her confidence to follow through.

"I wanna make the most of our time together," Minji whispered, pushing Bora back a bit. Bora's eyes searched Minji's. There was a hunger in them, too.

"What do you mean?" Bora questioned. Minji took a deep breath.

"My place is actually nearby," Minji proclaimed.

Bora's eyes widened, her hands clutching at Minji's sides, as if afraid to let her go, and she licked her lips agonizingly slow.

"You sure?" Bora questioned softly.

Minji nodded, just along for the ride. To go for what she wanted.

And she wanted Bora. If only for one night.

"More than sure."

Internal clocks were like magic. Sometimes, you don't to see a clock, or even the lighting outside, for your circadian rhythm to know approximately where you were in a daily cycle, as long as routine is kept.

And that's how Bora could sense it was way too early when she was woken up by a hand brushing over her forehead.

"Bora?"

Bora could barely open her eyes, but she managed to, if only because she knew what awaited her when she did.

It was a beautiful blur at first, but as it came into view, it was everything Bora was hoping for. Well, almost everything.

Minji looked gorgeous with her morning glow, bright and soft smile on her face, eyes twinkling, lips looking soooo kissable.

The only problem is Minji was wearing clothes. Business casual. She must've already gotten ready for work.

"What time is it?" Bora croaked out, sitting up. She felt the blanket slide off her shoulder and Minji stood back, wide-eyed, and turned slightly away, blushing.

"Um. 5:30am," Minji muttered, embarrassed. Bora smirked, blinking the sleepiness away.

"You can look, you know. I think we're past that," Bora chuckled. She watched Minji's cheeks turn pink.

"No I can't. I have to get to work. And you're making me want to stay here," Minji muttered. Bora let out a sigh.

"Very well," Bora relented, bunching up the covers over her chest. "You're safe now."

Minji slowly turned back toward Bora, looking like she was exuding great effort, and let out a shaky breath.

"Somehow, that doesn't help," Minji admitted.

"I can drop it again."

"No! No. No, no. No."

Bora let out a giggle.

"Sorry they got you going into the office at the ass crack of dawn," Bora yawned. "Been a while since I've seen this time of day."

"I wanted to let you sleep, but, I dunno, just leaving you here alone without saying goodbye and just leaving a note… after last night… it didn't feel right," Minji mumbled. Bora felt a rush of warmth fill her heart. Minji was too cute. Even after seeing how not cute she was the night before.

"I appreciate that," Bora sighed. "We okay? You don't… regret anything?"

"Absolutely not," Minji stated firmly. "Are you okay?"

"Yes. Very," Bora smiled.

"And you're still fine? With this just being a once a week thing?" Minji asked meekly. Bora rolled her head lazily to the side.

"I'd wait forever for a night like last night again. I feel blessed I'll only have to wait a week," Bora murmured. "We are meeting again next week, right?"

Minji seemed to relax a little, and she smiled warmly.

"Wouldn't miss it," Minji promised. "Feel free to make yourself breakfast, use the bathroom, whatever. Just clean up after yourself as best as you can. And then let yourself out whenever. I've already texted you the door code in case you forget something."

"Very sweet," Bora cooed. "Now go show the business world who's boss."

"Feel like I could take on every executive after last night," Minji whispered, swooping forward and pressing her lips gently to Bora's, and Bora's eyes fell shut, welcoming the affection.

And then Minji kissed her again.

And again, a little deeper.

And then she tore herself away.

"Mm. No, no. I have a meeting. I have a meeting, I have to go," Minji huffed, turning away and waggling a finger as if lecturing herself. "Next Tuesday?"

"Next Tuesday," Bora sighed, and she watched as Minji grabbed her bag, gave Bora one last longing look, and then headed out.

Bora flopped down on the bed, grinning from ear to ear.

So last night really happened. It wasn't a dream.

She hadn't been expecting it to… escalate as far as it did, but Bora definitely wasn't complaining.

After all, Minji had been right. They only had so much time together in a week. Might as well make most of it. She was glad Minji didn't appear to regret it. Bora certainly didn't.

It was way too early, but she felt wide awake now. So she did everything Minji suggested. Took a shower, made some food, ensured everything was back exactly as she found it, all the while regularly smiling about the memories she had of last night.

Eventually, she sat down and took out her phone, seeing the door code from Minji along with a heart. Then she navigated to the contact she'd been dying to yell at since Minji left.

Yubin

Yubin

alert

Yubin

we must meet

when can we meet

please tell me when we can meet

today please

urgent

gay urgency

I need Yubin time

Yuuuubbbiiinnnnnieeeee

"Do you have any idea how aggravating it was to get a slew of texts at 6am?"

It was later in the day, and Yubin was sitting back grumpily in her chair glaring at Bora over a late lunch.

"I'm sorry but this was important! It's not something I could just talk about over text!" Bora exclaimed. Yubin looked Bora over slowly and sighed.

"Well, it's the day after Tuesday, where you had a date with Minji, and I know this because you spent all day yesterday freaking out about it, and you're glowing like the northern star after a mass urban power outage at 2am. And you have several hickeys. So I'm assuming it went well?"

Bora instinctively pulled up her collar.

"Alright, smartass. Since you can figure all that out on your own, I guess you don't want to hear all about it," Bora muttered. Yubin chuckled, shaking her head incredulously.

"That's not what I'm saying. I'm just saying you're obviously very happy," Yubin noted. "Tell me about it. Not all details, please."

Bora brightened up.

"Well she's… so great. So wonderful. And so sweet. And it went so well! I was so worried all my last minute planning would go to waste but she was sooo agreeable and nice and fun and pretty and nice and seemed to really enjoy herself and she's just she's really pretty and willing to put up with my antics and she's a little silly when she lets herself and I dunno we vibed really well and she's got the most beautiful smile in the whole wide world and she's actually such a good kisser and god I wish I were kissing her right now and—"

"Bora, breathe," Yubin warned, smirking. "Damn, I've never seen you this smitten after a first date."

Bora let out a deep sigh.

"I really like her, Bin. I already miss her," Bora mumbled.

"You gonna do it again?" Yubin questioned. Bora nodded.

"We're planning to meet next Tuesday, as usual. And maybe, hopefully, every Tuesday…" Bora trailed off, thinking of Minji again.

"So you're gonna meet weekly? Just a casual thing?" Yubin inquired.

"Yeah. She's too busy for anything else. Which I understand. After last night, I don't care. The fact I get to see her like this already. I'm over the moon," Bora gushed, but Yubin's brow furrowed.

"You sure you're okay with it staying a casual meet up once a week?" Yubin questioned. Bora blinked.

"Yeah. Why wouldn't I be?" Bora tilted her head.

"Because you were right before. I know you. You get way too invested in even your most casual past relationships, and you weren't even as crazy about them as you are for this woman," Yubin claimed. "It might just feel fun now, but I'm worried about with how you are, you're not going to end up satisfied with this."

"You don't know how I'm going to end up feeling," Bora scowled. "The way I figure it, people already make long distant relationships work all the time. And I'm already ahead in that regard, because I get to see her once a week."

"See, you're already framing this as a relationship. That wasn't what was agreed, was it?" Yubin raised an eyebrow, and Bora let out a huff.

"Semantics," Bora grumbled. "What do you want me to do? Call it off? Stop seeing her? Just because she's too busy for a full relationship? That doesn't feel like a solution."

Yubin thought for a moment.

"Well, you could have other casual hook ups throughout the week. Help satisfy you until you see her and keep you from thinking too seriously about her," Yubin suggested, and Bora stared at her for a moment before sinking down in her chair.

"I don't think that would work," Bora mumbled.

"Why not?"

"Because I would just be thinking of Minji the whole time. It wouldn't be fair to them. Or me. Or Minji," Bora sighed. "I feel like it would hurt her to know I was hooking up with other people."

"Is that because it would hurt you to know if she was hooking up with other people?" Yubin questioned. Bora glared, crossing her arms and pouting.

"Doesn't matter. She'd be too busy for anything like that anyway so I don't have to worry about it," Bora muttered.

"Bora."

"I know, I hear it," Bora sighed. "I admit I'm probably in… deeper than I expected to be. Ever since she saved me from that… skynth duo. I mean, how could I not fall for her?"

"So I ask you again, are you okay with just keeping this a casual thing with her?" Yubin pondered. "What'll you do if she ends up too busy for meeting you even weekly?"

"Then I'll be worried for her. No job is important enough to keep you from having one evening off," Bora huffed.

"Doctor, firefighter, environmental scientist, human rights lawyer, child protective services—"

"Semantics," Bora scoffed. "The point is that Minji's job involves her being overworked and underappreciated to further line the pockets of the 1%. And if I'm the one reprieve she gets from that per week, then I'm happy to be that. If I care for her, and I do, then being there for her when she needs me is all I need."

"And what about you?" Yubin questioned. "Will you set yourself on fire to keep her warm?"

Bora glared at Yubin again.

"Leave it to you and your logic to put a damper on what was a really exciting day," Bora muttered. "Listen. I promise if it gets too much for me, and I feel I'm not getting what I need from the arrangement either, I'll pull away. Okay?"

"I wish I could believe you," Yubin sighed. "But, you're a grown woman. You can put yourself into any situations you want."

"I, personally, am quite fine with having more nights like last night, no matter how frequently they happen," Bora claimed, and then she stared off in the distance, thinking of Minji again, and she felt a hole in her heart craved out from where Minji's soft touches the night before left behind. "Wonder if I can get her work address. Bring her flowers, or something."

"Bora."

"I know. I hear it."

Despite Yubin's warnings, Bora still barrelled ahead. Because in Bora's head, even if she wanted everything immediately, Minji made the wait worth it.

Plus, maybe it was good for her to slow down for once.

And the yearning was always resolved come Tuesday.

Bora was very aware she only had so much time with Minji, and Minji was always at least a little stressed, so she always tried to plan something that would help Minji relax.

Over the next few weeks, it was the same, in that it was some of the best evenings of Bora's entire life.

They would grab dinner, either at a restaurant, or by walking a market, or even Bora cooking for Minji herself. And then they'd enjoy some sort of activity, from seeing a movie to taking a late ceramics class, or just going for a long walk and talking.

Then they would go back to one of their respective places, and they would enjoy each other intimately in a way that left no room for stress.

And then Minji or Bora would leave, and Bora would feel empty, longing to have held Minji a little longer.

Wednesdays ended up being Bora's least favourite days. Lonely, and she'd have to wait an entire week to see Minji again.

At least they'd text from time to time, usually to plan for the next date, and it was never the same as talking to Minji while Bora got to run her fingertips over Minji's skin, watching as the action made Minji shudder.

But Bora tried to put that aside. Because Minji needed her.

That was never more clear, as Bora noticed Minji seemed a bit more drained every time they'd meet.

Until she reached her breaking point, and the routine was altered, when Minji showed up near the end of Bora's set uncharacteristically late, her eyes red and puffy.

Bora finished up playing, even though she was eager to just stop her set all together and check on Minji, but Minji looked like she needed to listen to Bora's music for a little.

"Are you okay?" Bora asked immediately after she finished her last song, concern woven in her brow. Minji smiled at her sadly.

"More layoffs," Minji sniffled. "Entire departments. Effective immediately."

"Shit," Bora frowned. "Minji, it's not your fault."

"I know, but," Minji hugged herself, "at this rate, the whole company is going to go under. I'm watching everything I worked for crumbling before me."

"Hey, you still have your experience. Even if the company goes under, that doesn't mean you can't start over somewhere else. Any company would consider you a great asset with all your success," Bora pointed out.

"Except…" Minji bit her lip. "This is what other companies will look at when hiring. They won't look at the successes. They'll look at the one deal I couldn't make that brought a whole company under. And the executives have been… very loud about how it was my failing. Gahyun took a look at some of their correspondence. It's not good."

Bora felt rage creep up the back of her neck.

Who did these jerks think they were?

She stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Minji's neck.

"Assholes," Bora growled. "You deserve so much better."

Minji buried her head in Bora's hair, sniffling some more.

"At least I have you," Minji murmured. "Feel better already."

"You don't have to worry about any dumb executives while you're with me," Bora promised. "Gonna beat 'em up."

Minji let out a chuckle at that.

"If I could believe anyone can," Minji sighed, pulling away from Bora's hug and giving her a sweet smile. "So, what's the plan today?"

Bora frowned, placing her hand on Minji's cheek.

"We can postpone and just stay in today if it feels too much. Order takeout from the restaurant in my building. You can… relax and distract yourself however you want," Bora offered. Minji laughed tearfully, shaking her head and sniffling some more.

"I don't want you to feel like I'm using you as an escape from my work," Minji expressed. "You're more than that."

Bora nearly swallowed her own tongue, the sentiment was so sweet, and Minji may not have known just how reassuring that was for Bora to hear.

But still, Bora pulled Minji closer.

"I don't mind," Bora stated softly. "You only get one night a week. Let me help you give what you need to face the rest of the week. I want to."

"Bora…" Minji sighed, resting their foreheads together. "Okay."

Bora tucked a strand of hair behind Minji's ear.

"Then help me carry this stuff back to my place."

It didn't take long, after they dropped Bora's equipment on the floor, before Bora was being pushed against the wall, mouth hot and heavy against hers.

As much as Minji clearly tried to be respectful, Bora could feel the frustration and desperation in Minji, with the way she clutched at Bora, brought her closer, dug her fingers into her skin in ways that would leave marks, the rough animalistic follow-through that disregarded everything but what Minji wanted to do to Bora in that moment.

For Minji rarely ever got to go for what she wanted.

Maybe there was a point where she thought she knew what she wanted, but it paled in comparison to the desire Bora stirred in her. Bora felt like she understood Minji better than she ever had in those moments, where there were no inhibitions holding her back, when Minji whispered the filthy things she wanted to do in Bora's ear. And then how it felt after Bora let her.

Minji needed a release. Bora was more than happy to comply.

It was a band-aid solution to Minji's troubles, truly. But it was all Bora had to offer, with how much they could realistically give each other. Bora wished she could give Minji so much more.

They were wrapped up in each other most of the night. Mouths searching for another patch of skin to decorate. Experimenting with what touches and where would elicit which sounds ripped from their lungs. Discovering how the taste of each other rested on their tongues.

But their hunger took more forms than what could just be satisfied by each other. Something announced by a grumbling stomach at some point, though neither knew who it came from first. Even if they did, they were too caught up to be embarrassed by it anyway. But it was an issue that needed dealing with, nonetheless.

Bora glared at Miss Han when she dropped off their food during their break. That knowing smile was too irritating.

"Hope you're hungry for mandu," Bora announced, heading back into the bedroom with the bags of food.

Minji was lazily lying there, glowing from sweat and the smile on her face, and Bora had never seen a vision more beautiful. Like the first time she saw her.

"I could definitely use a recharge," Minji chuckled, sitting up slowly. Bora smiled, feeling so smitten, and distributed the food among the two of them. Eating in bed wasn't the best practice, but neither of them felt like wandering too far from it, and well, the sheets would be going in the wash soon anyway.

"Feeling better?" Bora inquired carefully, not wanting to drudge up anything that would make Minji upset again too soon.

"About what?" Minji questioned, and then she laughed. "I'd be way worse off without you, Bora. Thank you for giving yourself to me tonight. I hope it's okay."

"Of course," Bora nodded "Just wish I could do more."

"What? Like what?" Minji questioned. "You're feeding my body and soul. What more could I ask for?"

"Well, I mean, what needs to be done to save the company and all those jobs?" Bora inquired. Minji let out a sigh.

"We would need a lot of clients to recuperate the costs of the one we lost, and there's just not enough out there. I've been trying," Minji frowned. "Ideally, we get the original client I lost back on board. Because the investments the company went in on are going to cost the company for years. Resources used on a market that we can't profit off of because those clients were our doorway to business in Japan."

"Then that's what I wish I could do," Bora stated. "If I had the ability, I'd march to Japan. Knock on their door. Tell them to give you one last shot to show them how your technology can do what AI can't. And then I know you could convince them. Now that you know exactly what you're up against."

Minji stared at Bora, slowly chewing on a mandu before swallowing, and she smiled, and giggles erupted from her grinning face with her more teeth per teeth.

"I admire you, Bora," Minji sighed. "I wish it worked that way. But there are procedures and a matter of respectful cultures and making sure the right things are signed and all the red tape is cut and… Believe me, I've tried to go through the correct channels. They wouldn't respond."

"Bureaucracy," Bora huffed. "Helpful in theory. Stifling in practice. I remember in my record deal I had to go through a bunch of it. But I only got to keep the rights to my music by barging into a meeting and basically annoying them until I got what I wanted."

"Good thing you did," Minji beamed. "Wish I was as brave as you."

"What?" Bora blinked. "What do you mean? You're plenty brave. I mean. Take us for example. No contract had to be signed for you to run up and give me a bunch of money. To protect me from some bozos who were trying to break a code that needs no contracts. To do everything you've done for me and my music, just because you wanted to."

"Well that's because," Minji paused, chewing on her lip, "because it felt too important to wait until the right moment."

"And imagine if your co-worker hadn't stepped in and asked if it was a date. She understood the assignment," Bora pointed out. "I forgot, too. But what I have with you has reminded me just how important is to go for what you want, regardless of the risks. You reminded me of that."

And that's why Bora was with Minji now, in the minuscule time that was allowed. Regardless of the risk to her heart.

Because Minji was who she wanted.

Minji appeared thoughtful, a slight frown taking up the space of her usual smile.

"If only I had the same drive at work to go for what I want right now. I think I'd be unstoppable," Minji mused. Bora tilted her head.

"And what do you want right now?" Bora questioned.

Minji reached over and took Bora's chopsticks, setting them on the side table along with their food.

And Minji threw her leg over Bora's lap.

"You," Minji purred, pressing Bora down into the mattress, lips diving into the euphoria of Bora's.

Bora gladly accepted, because it's what Bora wanted, too. And she didn't even have to go after it herself. Not anymore.

She was lucky that they both wanted the same thing.

It gave Bora hope that maybe they both wanted more, too.

Minji wasn't a spontaneous person.

But it wasn't always that way.

Once upon a time, she went through the motions, was a model student, filled up her portfolio with exactly what she needed, and a little extra.

But what really got her ahead was her determination to make sure the hiring managers put a face to a resume. Even if she could have been written off. But her job would involve the ability to convince other people to buy into a product. Minji was selling herself. And she wasn't going to give people any other choice but to purchase.

So many times she would just happen to end up on an elevator with an important person who made the decisions. And she would make those elevator rides count. And if she got the chance to step into an office, she made that count, too.

When she had the chance to meet with clients, she made that count, after her surprise drop-ins just to get the clients in the room in the first place.

She eventually got so good at it, that word spread, and people would agree to a meeting at her company just to meet her. And soon, she was head of her department.

And she stayed good at her job.

But she never had to try as hard as she did just starting out again.

Just following procedure was enough.

And a disarming smile.

Minji didn't know when it happened, but she just started going through the motions. Doing exactly as she was supposed to. And the passion left her. Achievements felt shallower. Success less shiny.

It took meeting Bora for Minji realize just what it was she was missing in her life. The humanity that came along with reaching out for your goals, even when it was scary.

Because if she just did the bare minimum, without demonstrating she would fight for more, then how could she ever convince a client that the product they were selling was any better than a soulless machine?

So Minji found her spark again.

And she did something crazy.

And that weekend, she hopped on a plane to Japan.

And on Saturday, she stepped into an elevator with a very important man who had denied her just a few months ago.

And she made it clear: they had more to show him that he would be a fool to ignore.

And Minji returned a hero, despite nearly being dragged out by security and ruining her company's reputation forever.

Because she got that damn follow up meeting.

One more shot. One chance to convince some big bosses to take another chance on humanity.

There was just… one downside. But hopefully it would just be a one time thing. Minji needed it to be a one time thing.

Minji was already aggravated, because she was held up at work on Tuesday because of all the preparation they had to do for the rescheduled meeting. And that meant it was cutting into precious Bora time!

Bora was the last thing Minji wanted to sacrifice for her work, though it seemed she sometimes had no choice.

Minji was jogging down the street, annoyed to all hell that her heels were so hard to run in.

Please still be there.

She was relieved, through all her huffing and puffing, to see Bora was still on the bridge, though it was clear she was packing up, a slight frown on her face.

Minji felt a pang of guilt and regret.

"Bora!" Minji called out, her voice strained from the tightness of her lungs.

But Bora still heard and looked over. A smile grew on her face, a clear expression of relief.

"Minji," Bora sighed, placing her amp down and closing the distance between them. "They kept you later than you expected?"

"You could… say that," Minji wheezed. Bora smirked, viewing Minji with pity.

"I'm touched you ran over here just to see lil ol' me," Bora chuckled. "I was starting to think you forgot."

Minji shook her head furiously.

"Never," Minji insisted. "I'm sorry I'm late. But I have… good news!"

"Really?" Bora grinned. "Me too."

"You first," Minji huffed. "I owe you that much… for being… late. Also I'm still… catching my breath."

"Clearly," Bora raised an eyebrow. "Glad I make you so breathless."

"Very funny," Minji breathed. "What's your news?"

"Well, if those mean executives hadn't kept you so long, you already would've found out," Bora teased. "I debuted a new song today."

Minji's eyes widened.

"What?!" Minji gasped. "And I missed it? Ughhh!"

"Well here's the good news," Bora raised a finger. "I can just give you a private concert back at my place."

Minji, through her ragged breathing, grinned happily.

"Well what are we… waiting for?" Minji inquired with urgency. "I want to hear your song!"

Minji, though still a little breathless, went past Bora and started gathering as much as she could. Bora looked at her incredulously.

"Wait. What about your news?" Bora questioned.

"Later. New Kim SuA music takes priority," Minji stated, low-key forgetting what her news even was. Bora just shook her head.

"Alright. Take it easy. Don't want you passing out. This equipment is expensive," Bora warned teasingly. Minji looked up at her and puffed her cheeks out.

"Glad to know where your priorities lie," Minji scoffed. Bora giggled and swooped over to kiss Minji on the cheek.

"C'mon cutie. I've been so excited to show you this song. You inspired it, you know," Bora revealed. Minji's eyes widened.

"We're going. We're going right now let's go," Minji stomped off with several pieces of equipment in her arms.

"Hold on! You forgot your me!" Bora called after her, laughing.

They got to Bora's place in record time. It still amazed Minji what she accomplished when she had the right motivation. The motivation being Bora.

"Alright, just let me set up. Get comfy," Bora beamed, grabbing her guitar case and sorting through the money that was put into it to get her guitar out.

Minji looked around the apartment to figure out where to sit, and memories of the several places she got comfy last week flashed through her mind.

She shook it off, face going red. Time for revisiting that later. Song first, and then she still had to talk to Bora about…

Oh right.

How she couldn't see her next Tuesday.

A pit formed in Minji's stomach as she recalled that tidbit. It was like she had shoved it down on purpose. It was already hard enough waiting a whole week to see Bora. Now, next time she'll see Bora, it'll have been two.

"Minji?" Bora questioned, observing how Minji was just standing there. "I'm ready."

Minji blinked herself back to reality. After this. Minji just hoped Bora would understand.

"Okay, let's hear it," Minji urged, sitting across from Bora on the other beanbag chair. Bora plucked at the strings shyly.

"Alright. Um," Bora took in a deep breath. "I've been writing this for weeks. It's probably the longest time it's ever taken me to write a song. It's not my usual style, so that might be why. I also… wanted to do it justice. I told you you inspired it, after all."

Minji's heart rate picked up, as it often did around Bora.

"I know I'm gonna love it," Minji assured, and she got a nod from Bora before she started into the song properly.

From the first few notes, Minji could tell it was different. A slower BPM and rhythmic, following a simple pattern that was catchy, but Bora's rate at being able to hit all sorts of notes in a syncopation to the main melody was never not impressive, even for a slower song like this.

And then she started singing.

Minji had never heard this vocal tone from Bora before. It was cooler, smoother, like honey. Bora always had a depth to her voice, but the colour she filled this time reminded Minji of blues and lilacs, like what she would hear at a lounge on a warm summer night.

This song wasn't angry and loud, having Bora vent her frustrations to the void. It was soft, sweet, sensual, but there was a touch of unease. Of sadness. And that was only enhanced by the lyrics.

It was about her music just as much as it was about a lover, and how she feels that lover even when she's performing, and how she longs for them, wants them closer, wants time to slow down, wants them to stay. To touch them.

Baby stay here right beside
Till the end of time
Can we leave out all the lies
When the stars collide
Can you promise that you're mine
Whisper saranghae
Then open up my mind
And will you just give me a kiss

It was a song of deep yearning that Minji felt deeply in her gut.

She could relate.

When Bora finished the song, she shyly looked toward Minji, and she smiled.

"So, how was it?" Bora questioned. "I'm a little nervous about the repetition but it felt right because it really captured the, you know… desperation. Like you're stuck on one thing and you can't… think about anything else. I shouldn't be telling you what to think. What do you think?"

Minji stared at her with her mouth hanging open. Where did she even begin?

"Bora… I loved it. I love it a lot," Minji expressed earnestly. "It was different, sure, but it held the same meaningful conviction that makes all your other songs stand apart."

Bora blushed deeply.

"Thank you," Bora mumbled. "Like I said, I gained a lot of inspiration. From you."

"I could tell," Minji smiled warmly. "I'm honoured I occupy so much space in your thoughts."

"Of course you do," Bora breathed. "And this isn't me trying to push you or guilt you or anything. I know you're busy and I agreed that that's fine. But that doesn't stop me from wishing I could see you more. I hope that this got those feelings across."

"It did," Minji sighed. "And for the record, I can relate. I'm always thinking of you all week, Bora. Not a moment goes by that you're not on my mind. If things were different, you know I'd see you more than once a week, right?"

Bora let out a breath, her smile a bit misty.

"Yeah. But it's still a comfort to hear it," Bora expressed. "I'm okay with any time I get with you, though. I promise. And… thank you. For listening."

"Thank you for playing it for me," Minji beamed. "For what it's worth, I think this could go far. You played it during your busking slot, right? Did you get any good reactions?"

"Actually, I got a lot of people who scanned the QR code during this one," Bora claimed proudly, and then she deflated, sheepish. "Unfortunately, this song doesn't have an official recording yet. So it's not on that streaming site. But I have plans for when I do record it for real. I was thinking of adding some synths? Those skynth guys were idiots but they were right, sometimes a good synth just hits."

"Ooh! And we could promote it like a special release!" Minji gasped. "I've been seeing little banners around town of indie projects and promotions and I've been thinking, we could do that for your music, too! We just have to get the right permits. Have a QR code on them linking to your new song. Even if they can't hear it, your face will be enticing enough to scan. And, oh! Speaking of your face, short form videos! Do you have any short form video accounts?"

Bora waited patiently for Minji to finished, smile on her face, and then she laughed heartily.

"I do. But I haven't used it in a while," Bora chuckled. "I should probably just focus on getting a studio recording, first. Maybe that can be a birthday present for myself."

"Birthday?" Minji tilted her head, and Bora grinned.

"This is my not-so-subtle way of informing you my birthday is next week," Bora smirked.

"Next week?" Minji gaped. "When?"

"Tuesday, actually," Bora admitted smugly. "Isn't that fun? I get to spend my birthday with you."

"Bora, I—" Minji's voice caught, and she frowned. Bora's face also fell, appearing concerned.

"What is it?" Bora questioned. Minji let out a sigh.

"I haven't told you my good news yet," Minji sank a little, feeling downtrodden. Bora just looked more confused.

"Okay?" Bora inquired slowly. Minji let out a breath.

"You… also inspired me this past week," Minji explained. "I flew to Japan this past weekend."

Bora's eyes widened.

"I thought it odd I hadn't heard from you at all," Bora pondered. "How'd it go?"

"I got another meeting with them," Minji revealed, feeling a little more bittersweet about it.

"What?!" Bora gasped. "No way! You didn't. You did? Holy shit, Minji, that's incredible! I knew you could do it! Take that, executives! Woohoo!"

Minji couldn't help but feel endeared watching Bora cheer for her, but it also just made her feel more regretful.

"You're gonna convince them, Minji. I know you are. There's no way they can so no to you again. You're at your most powerful, I think. Look at you," Bora grinned, gesturing to Minji, and then her face fell again. "Look at you. Why do you look so sad?"

"Because, Bora," Minji sighed. "The client agreed to meet at the only time they're available. And that just happens to be next Tuesday evening. They've booked off the whole night to hear us out."

Bora stared at Minji, her expression neutral.

"Oh," Bora sank down in her beanbag chair. Minji felt the emotion stick in her throat.

"It was already going to suck missing you for a week. But now I know it's your birthday, too?" Minji frowned deeply. "I am so, so sorry."

Bora continued to sit there expressionless, and then she seemed to shake it off and gave Minji a comforting smile.

"Hey, it's okay. This is important," Bora assured her. "We can pretend my birthday is the week after. It's alright."

"That's not fair to you," Minji pouted, but Bora shook her head.

"It's just a birthday. I can wait. Your clients can't. I understand. And you have no obligation to me," Bora stood up, walked over, and placed herself in Minji's lap while cupping her face with her hands. "I knew sometimes you wouldn't have time for me. That's just reality. But I'll wait for however long it takes for you to have time again. Okay?"

"Bora," Minji's lip trembled, and Bora kissed it softly.

"Don't worry about me. You do what you need to do," Bora murmured, stroking Minji's cheeks with her thumbs. "I'm so proud of you. My hardworking, pretty office worker."

Bora leaned in again and gave Minji another kiss, and lingering and deep one this time, but Minji's throat stayed tight.

Bora was so sweet.

So good.

So understanding.

But even with the permission, Minji's heart still hurt.

She couldn't help but think of a line in the song Bora had sung her, as Bora continued to kiss her affectionately.

Can we try to travel time in slow motion, it's just like we're in space

Bora had had better birthdays.

It wasn't the worst birthday, either. There was that time she turned ten and ate too much cake and threw up on her grandparents. That wasn't a fun birthday.

But today's birthday also didn't feel great. Mostly because Bora was mourning what it could've been.

Bora let out a sigh, heading out the door of her apartment with all her equipment in her arms or strapped to her back. Time for a regular busking slot. Like it always had been. Before Minji.

Then she'd stop playing, and go home, and maybe watch a sad drama and cry.

At least Yubin had been able to buy her lunch, which was nice. Though Yubin could obviously tell Bora was sad. But Yubin kept her mouth shut, thankfully. Probably for the sake of Bora's birthday. Bora got to be sad about her casual weekly hook up she was probably in love with. As a birthday treat.

And Minji… Minji promised she would make it up to her. Tenfold. The next time she could. And Bora believed her.

But as she set up for her busking, Bora couldn't help but think of the patterns that were emerging.

Two weeks ago, Minji had been late. She missed most of the set.

Then last week, she missed the set entirely.

This week? No Minji at all.

And, realistically, if Minji pulled the deal off this time, her schedule wouldn't get any lighter. They'd be expanding business in Japan, and if the executives were smart for once, they'd want Minji at the forefront of that.

Maybe it would turn into one Tuesday a month.

Maybe less.

And Bora should be okay with that. She had agreed. She would wait for whenever Minji had time for her.

Bora adjusted her guitar, and tested her mic.

She was going to start with her new song. Her song about Minji. And how much she took up her entire life. How much she wanted to be with her. How much she'd stop time itself just to spend another moment with her.

But Minji didn't have that room for her in her life. Work was always going to occupy a bigger space.

A job that didn't even appreciate her.

And that's where Minji was.

On Bora's birthday.

Bora made one, dissonant strum, and she bit her shaky lip, bowing her head and trying to get a hold of herself, tears filling her eyes.

Dammit, Bora. Get it together.

It's just one important day Minji had to prioritize.

It was important for Minji's success.

Don't be selfish.

Don't you want success for Minji?

Can you not sacrifice a few nights with her so that she can find happiness elsewhere?

…

Dammit.

Maybe Yubin was right, after all.

Bora wasn't cut out for this.

Too dramatic.

Here she was, holding a guitar, trembling from trying not to cry in the middle of a pedestrian bridge.

All because it was apparently more important to her than she thought to have Minji there with her on her actual birthday.

Stupid.

Apparently she couldn't cope.

And that's what broke her heart the most.

Because now she had to decide just how much she was willing to set herself on fire to keep Minji warm.

And though she was on fire, she just felt cold.

There were some people walking by, confused, and she could hear them ask if she was okay. But she didn't answer.

Because if she did, she would just scream.

No!

I'm not okay!

Because I can't be strong enough to even imagine being without someone!

How can I even handle it when they're not here?!

It hurts too much.

Her not being here hurts.

It hurts.

It hurts.

It—

"Bora?"

Bora felt the hands on her face lifting her head before she heard the voice, and then the blurry but vibrant face through her teary eyes.

"Minji?" Bora croaked.

"I'm here," Minji murmured, her expression distraught as it came into focus. "I'm sorry."

"But, but your meeting—"

"Screw the meeting. It's your birthday," Minji huffed, wrapping Bora up in a tight hug. "I'm such an idiot. I'm sorry I even fathomed missing today. Happy birthday, Bora."

Bora wanted to sink into the embrace so badly and cry, but she pushed Minji back, shaking her head.

"No. Not for me," Bora insisted. "The meeting was important. It's your last chance. You can't miss it for me."

Minji put her hands on Bora's shoulders.

"It is important. But so are you," Minji explained. "The difference is, between the two, the one that I want? It's you, Bora."

"Minji…" Bora breathed.

"And I want you more than once a week, Bora. I want you every day. Not just on Tuesdays for an evening."

"But, your job—"

"I quit."

Bora's eyes widened.

"But! The company! I mean, screw the executives but all the other employees, what's going to happen to them?" Bora questioned. Minji smiled warmly at her.

"You have so much empathy huh? Even for office workers. Bleeding heart of an artist," Minji beamed. "Don't worry about them. I wouldn't have left them high and dry."

"What'd you do?" Bora inquired.

"Well, I couldn't just not send someone into the meeting. So I sent someone very capable. Even more insightful than me. Knows what needs to be done. Doesn't let emotions cloud her judgement. Leads with logic," Minji mused. "Left to her own devices, and with the right opportunities, she'll probably be CEO one day."

"Sounds powerful," Bora smiled.

"Mhm," Minji nodded. "So don't worry. I'm happy with this decision. I've never felt so… free."

"But what are you going to do?" Bora wondered. Minji hummed thoughtfully.

"I'm going to do what I want," Minji stated. "Which means I'm going to listen to my favourite musician."

"That's cool. I hear she's performing soon," Bora cooed, nuzzling her nose against Minji's.

"Lucky me," Minji murmured. "And then, I'm going to celebrate the birthday of the woman I love."

Bora stood back, shocked.

"Minji…?" Bora gaped, but Minji just kept giving her a sunshine smile.

"And then tomorrow, maybe, if she wants, I'll spend even more time with her," Minji pondered. "And then the next day. And the next day."

Bora smiled in a way that even the heavens could probably sense it.

"I'd like that," Bora sighed. "I'd love that."

"Me too," Minji agreed. "And after that? I don't know. But whatever it is, I hope you'll be there for it."

Bora threw her arms around Minji's neck.

"Wouldn't miss it for the world," Bora whispered, and she pulled Minji in for a deep kiss, not caring at all about the passersby.

(Astoundingly, someone threw money into Bora's guitar case while this happened)

"Hey, Minji?" Bora mumbled against Minji's lips.

"Hmm?"

"Best birthday ever."

Minji chuckled.

"Best Tuesday ever."

Gahyun, to the surprise of nobody, had been able to close the deal. She still kept in touch and let Minji know what was going on. They were very busy with their new market opening up, and people who had lost their jobs were being hired back.

Now with some sway in the company, Gahyun was even able to have Minji's job offered to her again.

Minji declined, which Gahyun expected.

She was done with the days of being too busy for anything else other than work. Too busy for anything else more important.

Speaking of, after a couple weeks of Minji's unemployment, Bora and Minji had been taking advantage of all their free time now, spending every waking moment together, sometimes sleeping moments, too.

They wouldn't have had it any other way.

Of course, Minji still needed a job eventually, because Bora's busking donations definitely couldn't pay off her apartment deposit, and job hunting was going… about as expected.

At least Minji got to listen to Bora's singing and playing while she searched on her laptop at Bora's apartment.

And Bora didn't even mind if Minji started tapping. It helped her keep beat.

"Oh this looks promising," Minji announced suddenly. "High paying musical gig, looking for someone who can sing and play and instrument and take requests every other night for two weeks as a trial run."

"Minji," Bora sighed, putting her guitar aside. "You're supposed to be looking for a job for yourself. Not for me."

"I ran out of job postings for me to apply to. And I just… happened to come across this one," Minji stated as Bora leaned over her shoulder to read the screen.

"Oh, that place," Bora scoffed. "No shot. They only hire conventional musicians. And they're so prestigious. They turn their nose up at anyone who they think is lesser than them. Trust me. I've tried to audition with them before. Even did the whole face-to-face thing. No dice."

"Maybe you just didn't sell yourself the right way," Minji claimed, starting to type away at her laptop.

"What are you doing?"

"Sending them an email."

"Minjiiiii," Bora rolled her eyes. "Don't waste your effort."

"Why not? What's the harm in trying?" Minji questioned. "These people. They're all the same. They always want to be on the cutting edge. The trick is to make them believe they'd be severely missing out if they don't give you a shot. It's all psychology."

"Isn't that up-selling me a little bit?" Bora sighed.

"Nope," Minji proclaimed. "Because I do believe anyone not giving you a chance is missing out. And that's why I'll be able to send them a banger email they can't ignore. And if they do ignore it? I'll find someone who can get it to them and won't give them any choice. Even if I have to do it myself."

Bora sighed again, sliding onto Minji's lap. Somehow, Minji kept typing.

"At this rate, I'm going to have to hire you as my agent," Bora shook her head.

"Well why not?" Minji contemplated. "Same skills, different venue. And I can't think of a better use of my time than to help get your music career off the ground."

"Minji," Bora clicked her tongue. "Just don't overwork yourself for me, okay? I want you most of all. Not what you can do for my career."

Minji stopped typing and looked up at Bora endearingly.

"These days, I consider my work to be devoted to you in every possible way," Minji cooed. "It's work that makes me truly happy."

"I'll be sure to give you lots of vacation time," Bora smirked, kissing Minji softly.

"Mm. As long as I get to spend that time with you," Minji smiled.

"You know the answer to that," Bora kissed Minji again. Minji let out a chuckle.

"I think this partnership could be very beneficial to both of us, Kim Bora," Minji purred.

"As if that wasn't already clear," Bora giggled, kissing Minji several more times. "I love you."

"I love you, too."

They sighed, melting into each other, feeling secure that they'd never have to be apart again.

Because there were no early meetings to attend, no deadlines to meet, no executives and clients to impress, making Minji leave Bora's arms far too soon.

Instead, now, finally, she could stay.

"Every day of the week."