Work Text:
“Ani…”
Woo Youngwoo stares wide-eyed and lost at the animated looks on Geurami and Suyeon’s faces.
What had meant to be a routine catch up between friends transpired into further drinks at Suyeon’s apartment, all because of a simple admission…
“Ya! No Tinder! They’re gonna eat Youngwoo alive.”
“But isn’t that exactly the point?”
“Yes, but we want a gentle introduction to online dating. Gentle! Not casting her to the wolves!”
“Fine, fine…”
Blinking furiously at the speed at which events are unfolding, Youngwoo hurriedly interjects. “But I don’t want to date online.”
The two women on the adjacent sofa finally lift their heads away from the phone in response.
A beat.
Geurami inhales.
Youngwoo’s fingers nervously grip the sides of her skirt in anticipation. She was a seasoned captain of many a Geurami storm after all.
“Woo Youngwoo! After telling us that story of ahjussi and your wedding expectations, which are none , do you think we would let it go?”
“Correct!” Suyeon jumps in, the wine in her hand sloshing precariously in her glass.
“You shouldn’t say those weak-minded things! So what if you are autistic? So what? You were always on top in school, and a damn fine attorney! You’re a catch!”
Geurami thrusts her phone back in her direction. Startled, Youngwoo takes her phone from the impassioned woman and glances at the screen. She frowns.
“A selfie?”
Suyeon springs up. “That’s right! We need to take your profile picture - come here…”
She waves Youngwoo towards her armchair by the window and turns on the lamp. Behind her, Geurami hums in approval.
“I like it. It’s a vibe.”
“But how do I…how should I pose?”
Youngwoo had already determined the futility of objecting to her friend’s efforts and decided to surrender to their schemes for the evening.
“Just smile naturally” Suyeon directs, Youngwoo’s phone in her hand at the ready.
Unable to look directly into the camera, the reluctant model does her best to smile, but her attempts have her grimacing into the distance.
“Youngwoo, listen to me. Face the window.” Guerami commands, her hands framing the windowsill.
“L..like this?” Youngwoo moves her face towards the window, but her eyes remain fixed on her friends.
“Yes, but look outside, and think of whales.”
A bubble of excitement rises through her chest. She thinks about the whale documentary she watched last night and recollects the scenes in her head. Her eyes sparkle, a grin grows across her face. Her hands clutch in front of her chest.
CLICK!
Guerami and Suyeon share a knowing smile. Perfect.
~*~
MINWOO
Location: ~20km away
Age: 30
Height: 5’8
Drinks: Often
Religion: Catholic
Job: Attorney
Bio:
Realist.
“Play the game, don’t let the game play you”.
Hana University graduate, honours roll.
Scorpio. ESTJ.
Not interested in being penpals.
Loves fine dining and travelling.
I’m looking for:
A partner who is independent, affectionate and with a sense of humour. Someone who is adventurous and willing to travel the world with me.
You should *not* go out with me if:
You cannot cook. Because that would be the 2 of us. Ramyeon is all I can cook!
This year, I really want to…
Focus on improving myself as a person……
“Ya! Youngwoo! That was a perfectly decent profile!”, Geurami grumbles.
“We didn’t even get to see his other pictures”, laments Suyeon, similarly hunched over the phone over Youngwoo’s shoulder.
“He was cute!”
“And he’s an attorney, just like us. You’d have plenty of things to talk about…”
“We would not be a good match for each other”, says Youngwoo matter-of-factly.
“He’s looking for someone adventurous, and who can cook. I’m neither of those things”.
“Yes, but you do not need to be all of those things to see if you get along! It’s not a test. You are not going to be everything they look for, and vice versa - be open to the possibility.” coaches Suyeon.
“Sometimes it is the look of a person, or the vibe from their pictures. Sometimes it’s the common interests. You’ll never know - you can’t tell what a person is truly like from a short profile.”
Youngwoo hums in thought.
“But then what is the point of setting up a profile if you aren’t being honest about what your expectations are of a partner? Shouldn’t I be taking their expectations seriously?”
Suyeon looks stupefied for a moment.
“That…is true. But some things aren’t dealbreakers - like, they may be happy to put up with any shortfalls or flaws if they really like you. No one is perfect.”
Youngwoo sighs.
“We create a profile, say what we are looking for, only for people to disregard it?”
She shakes her head.
“Dating is hard.”
Geurami shoots a look at Suyeon behind Youngwoo’s back before laughing in agreement.
“I know right? Dating is silly, we think we know what we want but sometimes we really don’t. You can only know if you meet people. So let’s look at a few more profiles, shall we?”
She turns to Suyeon, shrugging in a low whisper, “At least she knows how to swipe properly. I didn’t.”
Suyeon’s eyes pop out of her head.
“Then how were you swiping?”
Her finger swishes randomly in the air.
“Like this?”
Not expecting to be made so quickly, Geurami purses her lips, sneers in retort, then loudly clears her throat as she returns her attention to the phone between them.
“Nevermind, who do we have next?”
~*~
“Oh, Junho, you're back?”
A tall, handsome figure emerges from the hallway, sliding off his shoes as the door locks behind him. He returns the greeting from the jolly man in the kitchen with a smile.
“Hairy, did you have a good day? Oh, what are you making? It smells good!”
“I was thinking of modernising my menu, and was experimenting with some new recipes”.
He puts a plate down on the dining table. Junho hurries over curiously.
“Try it!”
Junho looks at the plate of gimbap in front of him, noting the variety of fillings.
“It smells delicious.”
He bites into the first slice. His eyes pop.
Hairy smiles knowingly. “It’s good, isn’t it?”
Junho grunts in enthusiastic agreement. He swallows.
“Not just good - great! What are these textures inside? It’s crunchy but moist?”
“It’s my fried batter range! Inspired by tempura, I’ve made my own special batter recipe, made vegetable fritters, chicken and seafood fritters and incorporated it into the gimbap! Also, I’ve added a cheese omelette too.”
Junho groans in hunger.
“Are you saying each slice is a different type of fritter?”
He smiles cheekily.
“Are they all for me?”
Hairy laughs. “Dig in!”
“Thank you, I’ll eat well!”
BEEP BEEP! BEEEEEP!
Both men look at each other at the distinctive alert tone.
“Your phone…” Junho whispers.
“M..my phone” Hairy stutters, putting down the knife, and patting around his apron and pockets.
He finds it in his back pocket and brandishes it triumphantly in the air. Junho quickly beckons him to sit next to him as the older gentleman walks over.
Hairy whips out the phone, and true enough, the notification from the dating app is on his lock screen. He sheepishly looks at Junho.
“It’s been a while since I’ve received a match”.
Junho smiles encouragingly.
“You should see it! Go on, let’s check it out!”.
He joins Hairy in taking a deep breath, and pats him cheerily on the back.
Hairy unlocks his home screen and opens the app.
WOO YOUNG WOO
Location: ~5km away
Age: 28
Height: 5”5
Drinks: Never
Religion: Atheist
Job: Attorney
Bio:
My name is Woo Youngwoo, whether it is read straight or flipped. Kayak, deed, rotator, noon, racecar, Woo Youngwoo, Yeoksam Station.
Lover of whales and marine life - ask me for documentary recommendations!
Autistic, she/her, lawyer on the clock, environmental activist on the dock.
If I can eat only one thing for the rest of my life…
It is gimbap!
My ideal date is…
Picnic and cleaning patrol along the Han River.
If I could take anyone (living, dead or imaginary) to a dinner date, it would be…
David Attenborough. Or Poseidon. But if this is an imaginary situation, then I would like to spend it with the 52 Hz whale as it is the loneliest whale in the world. We would have whale food of course.
I’m looking for:
Someone to share my interests with, who is kind and friendly.
You should *not* go out with me if:
You want someone who is adventurous and can cook!
“That’s kind of sweet actually”, Hairy scratches his chin. “She’s very passionate and smart.”
He looks at Junho.
“Do you know her? Does she work in your legal firm?”
“Ani, ani…” Junho shakes his head. “Though if she did, I have a feeling I’d remember.” he adds softly.
Hairy grunts in agreement.
“I’m a chef, so I can do the cooking, not a problem.” Hairy smiles, scrolling up to look at her profile picture again.
Junho does a double take. Youngwoo’s moonlit face shines brightly with joy as she sits back in a cosy armchair. Radiant and animated, she looked utterly charming.
He glances up at Hairy’s face, and sees a simple smile on his face. “She looks nice. What do you think, Junho?”
Junho gulps. Resplendent , he thinks.
But instead, he says, “She’s great. I think you should go for it.”
“Yeah, I think so too.” Hairy nods. “Okay, wish me luck!”
He musters up a grin for his housemate, despite the unexplainable sinking feeling Junho feels in his gut. “You got this Hairy - fighting!”.
~*~
BEEP BEEP! BEEEEEP!
YOU’VE MATCHED WITH MINSHIK!
18th June, 19:49
Minshik:
Hi Youngwoo ssi, nice to meet you. How are you doing today?
Youngwoo:
Hi Minshik ssi, I am well. How about you?
Minshik:
Well? You mean ‘whale’? 😂
Sorry, I don’t know many whale jokes. I see you love whales.
Youngwoo:
Would you like to hear a whale joke?
Minshik:
Yes!
Youngwoo:
Why should you never make a contract with a whale?
Minshik:
Ah, a law and whale joke. I’m doomed. Can I call a friend?
Youngwoo:
Aniyo. It won’t help. Do you give up?
Minshik:
Sadly, I do.
Youngwoo:
The whale will eventually breach it 😄
Minshik:
Ooh 👏 That’s clever.
Youngwoo:
Would you like to hear another one?
Minshik:
I do
Youngwoo:
What do you call a whale with bad posture?
Minshik:
A hunchback whale?
Youngwoo:
Yes!! You got it right!
Minshik:
Woo hoo! Youngwoo 1: Minshik 1
Youngwoo:
Are you competitive, Minshik ssi? It’s not fair if I’m the only one giving the jokes.
Minshik:
You’re absolutely right. What are the terms and conditions, Attorney Woo?
Youngwoo:
We take turns in telling the jokes.
Minshik:
Do they have to be whale-related?
Drying his hair with a towel, Junho walks into the living room to find his roommate giggling on the sofa, both hands rapidly typing away on his phone. Junho smiles at the scene.
He sits next to Hairy as he guffaws. “What has got you smiling like that? Is it the lawyer on the dating app?”
Hairy nods, “She’s funny. We’re having a joke showdown now.”
“Oh? What kind of jokes?”
“Whale ones. But you’d appreciate this one. Why should you never make a contract with a whale?”
“Oh! They’ll breach it?” Junho laughs at his answer, and at Hairy’s shocked expression. “I’m correct, aren’t I?”
“Smart cookie”, Hairy grumbles goodnaturedly.
“Aniyo. I grew up on Jeju island so I knew a bit about marine life. My sister still lives there.”
“That’s right. Hey, does that mean you know many whale-related jokes?”
“That depends - who is winning?”
“It’s a draw.”
“Ooh, so you’d need to hit back with a strong one. How about this?”
BEEP BEEP! BEEEEEP!
18th June, 20:25
Minshik:
What did the whale say when he avoided going to prison?
Youngwoo:
Hmm…
…
What did it say?
Minshik:
“I’m off the hook.” 😆
Youngwoo:
😂
That was good! A point for Minshik ssi.
Minshik:
Well, what happens when I win?
Youngwoo:
What do you mean?
Minshik:
Do I win a prize?
Youngwoo:
Ah. What prize were you thinking of?
“Here. Have some”, Gwangho puts down a plate of sliced apples in front of his daughter.
“Thank you”, Youngwoo responds, her eyes never leaving her screen as she furiously types her response.
Curiosity getting the better of him, Gwangho asks, “Youngwoo-ya, who are you writing to like that on the phone? Is it your boyfriend?”. He teases.
But his smile fades when Youngwoo looks up from her phone and hums in hesitation.
“No. At least not yet.”
“N..not yet?”
“Not yet.”
She returns back to her phone, leaving her father dumbstruck.
“Ya! Youngwoo, what do you mean not yet? Which boy are you speaking to?”
“Minshik ssi”
“Who is he?”
Youngwoo pauses. “I’m not sure, but I’m trying to find out.” She looks at her dad. “It’s called online dating”.
“O..online dating? What is this American-style dating? What made you do this all of a sudden?”
“You did, actually.”
“W..what? Me?” Gwangho’s face a picture of complete and utter confusion. “When did I ask you to go online dating?”
“You didn’t. I told Geurami and Suyeon about our conversation about weddings the other day, and how it was unlikely to happen, and they were angry so they downloaded this online dating app for me.”
Gwangho pauses. He liked his daughter’s friends most of the time, but knowing Geurami since she was in high school meant he was no stranger to her harebrained schemes.
It looked like this time was no exception.
He sighs. Who knew this day would come?
“Don’t give anyone your contact information online until you meet them in person first, to see if they are real. Never pay for everything, split the bill. Meet in busy, public spaces during the day to be safe. And before you get serious, bring the boy home to me.”
“You’re giving me online dating advice? But Dad, how do you know so much about it?”
Gwangho clears his throat suddenly. “Finish your apples”.
BEEP BEEP! BEEEEEP!
18th June, 20:31
Youngwoo:
Ah. What prize are you thinking of?
Minshik:
Well. How about if I win, you take me out for coffee? And if you win, I take you out for coffee?
18th June, 20.35
Minshik:
Hello?
18th June, 20:53
Youngwoo:
Sorry Minshik ssi, I was talking to my dad.
Ah. Those prizes are exactly the same - having coffee together. It would negate the point of competing as the outcome will be the same.
Minshik:
Ah, yes. I was trying to be smooth, but I guess I wasn’t very good. 😅
Youngwoo:
Oh, sorry. You were flirting. I didn’t understand.
Minshik:
Gwenchana, gwenchana! I’m a bit rusty and nervous. It’s been a while since I flirted with a good looking woman.
Youngwoo:
Oh. Thank you.
I’m autistic, so I sometimes take things literally. Please do not take offence if I misunderstand.
It’s harder to read people when it is by text.
And I think you are good looking too.
Minshik:
Oh really?
Youngwoo:
Yes. You are also friendly. And I like your whale jokes.
Minshik:
😊😊😊
You are pretty good at flirting yourself, Youngwoo ssi.
Youngwoo:
Really? But all I said was the truth?
Minshik:
Ah, stop it, you’ll make me blush.
Youngwoo:
Sorry
Minshik:
Don’t be. It was nice 😊
So, I have a proposal for a prize.
If I win, you have to come to my restaurant and try my new gimbap line. I’m a chef, and I am looking to trial my new creations. I see you love gimbap, so this is not a bad deal for you.
I’m not sure what you would like if you win - maybe you could tell me?
Youngwoo:
Wow, you make gimbap? That feels like it should be my prize 😮
I’ve never gone on my ideal date before with someone. Maybe that could be my prize?
Minshik:
A picnic and cleaning patrol along the Han River? Sounds perfect 😊
Youngwoo:
Now for the terms and conditions. What should be the duration of the competition and the rules?
Minshik:
Let’s make things simple? We tell as many jokes this week and keep score. Then we will see who wins on Friday evening, and claim the prize this weekend?
Youngwoo:
Okay!
I have to get ready for bed.
Minshik:
Ah okay, good night Youngwoo ssi!
Youngwoo:
Goodnight!
Hairy puts his phone down on the table, spinning to face Junho on the couch. Startled, Junho turns away from the whale documentary he’d been watching and looks at his friend.
Hairy sighs, “I need your help”.
~*~
“I need your help”.
Geurami raises her eyebrow. “What kind of help are we talking here?”
“Dating help.”
Suyeon chokes on her beer. “You have a date?”
The three of them are seated around Geurami’s coffee table having snacks, when Youngwoo decides to ask for help. It’s been a few days of back and forth messaging between her and Hairy, and she came to a startling realisation that either way the competition plays out, there will be a date at the end of it.
And dating was something she had zero experience in.
“Yes. It will be this weekend.” Youngwoo immediately covers her ears at the loud squeals coming from her friends.
“Omo! I have to bring you shopping for new clothes!”
“Wait a minute”, Geurami raises her hand.
“Who is he, and what kind of date is this? I want all the details - his profile, age, what he does for a living…pass me your phone.”
“Youngwoo, this is so exciting! How are you finding online dating? Are you speaking to many people?” Suyeon asks as Geurami pulls up the dating app on Youngwoo’s phone.
“Aniyo. I am only speaking to him at the moment. I got overwhelmed with messaging too many people so I paused my profile.”
Geurami beams with pride. “I said it didn’t I? Our Youngwoo is a catch!”
“Ya! I said that.”
“Anyway, let’s check out what you guys have been doing…” Geurami winks at Youngwoo as she looks through their chat.
“He’s looks friendly. Oh, he’s a chef…Hmm, he looks kinda hairy…”
“Youngwoo, you flirt!” Geurami guffaws.
“Look at you making other boy’s hearts flutter”.
“I didn’t mean to.”
“But look at all these whale jokes. Seriously, have you found your match already?”
“Are you sure you need help from us? You’re doing so well!” Suyeon exclaims.
“Yes”, Youngwoo nods. “I’ve not had any experience in dating, so I do not know what I have to prepare beforehand”.
Before Suyeon can speak, Geurami pipes, “Anything you want. But the most important thing is that you are comfortable, and be yourself.”
“Be yourself”, echoes Youngwoo.
Suyeon deflates, but nods. “Not advice I would have given, but Geurami is correct. Do whatever feels right.”
Youngwoo’s frowns. “But isn’t there a social convention for how to behave on a date? Like must I wear or say something specific?”
“Ani! Just be yourself! All of those rules are rubbish!” says Geurami.
“You’re there to get to know the other person, so there is no point in pretending to be someone else.”
Nodding, Youngwoo says, “That makes sense.”
“Exactly. Now explain to me how it is possible you both know so many whale jokes?”
~*~
“You’re the best! Who knew you knew so many whale jokes?”
“Oh! Did you win?” Junho asks, as Hairy puts down his beer next to him. Junho was having dinner at Hairy’s restaurant tonight, but as usual there were little to no customers present, and the bustle of his food deliveries were over.
“I did! Which means she’ll be coming here this weekend.”
“Hey, that’s really great!” smiles Junho, noting the dull pang in his chest.
“Oh wait a minute. She’s asking for a day time catch up. But I only open in the evenings. Let me sort this out.” Hairy furiously types away at his phone.
Junho was genuinely happy for his friend. Hairy was one of the nicest guys he knew. When he moved to Seoul and was looking for a housemate, Hairy answered his advertisement and not only offered a place to stay but a dear friendship. He had known of Hairy’s disastrous love life despite his heart of gold, and Junho wanted him to be happy. He deserved it. So when Hairy asked for help with his whale joke competition, he jumped at the opportunity. Only…
He takes a swig of his beer as he looks at Hairy typing away on the phone. This past week, Hairy had passed his phone to Junho to respond to Youngwoo. They learnt very early on she had no shortage of whale jokes, and Hairy was struggling to keep up with her.
“Please, I have to win!” Hairy begs.
“Why is it so important?”
“Don’t you know, a way to someone’s heart is through their stomach? It’s the only thing I got going for me. She needs to come to my restaurant.”
“I see, so you can show off?”
“Precisely!”
“O-kay! Let’s see what joke she sent? Oh, this one is very easy.”
Hairy looks over Junho’s shoulder. “ Why did the dolphin tell the whale to cheer up ? How is that one easy?”
Junho laughs, “Because it was blue!”
“See! You’re better at this than I am.” He points to his phone. “What joke are you gonna send her?”
“How about, Why do they say whales are kind ?” Junho types away at the keyboard.
“What is the answer?” Hairy asks.
“It’s because they have a big heart.” Junho chuckles.
Hairy shakes his head. “I don’t get it.”
“Oh…whales, they have the biggest heart in the world, especially the blue whale. I was inspired by her joke, so I think she will get this one right.”
BEEP BEEP! BEEEEEP!
“Ah, I was right. Damn, she’s good.”
“Okay David Attenborough, work your magic! We have to win!”
“Araso, Anthony Bourdain! I’ll do my best.”
Unfortunately for him, it seemed like Youngwoo worked her magic on him instead. He found her witty and her enthusiasm sweet. And as hard as he tried, he couldn’t help but like her.
He may have won the competition, but she had won him over. What a hollow victory , he thought bitterly. It was a rotten deal. All he had in return for helping his friend was burgeoning guilt over an infatuation that could never be returned. He could never tell Hairy, and only hoped it would go away with time. After all, he wouldn’t have to interact with her that way again.
“Guess what? Youngwoo is bringing a friend along tomorrow.” Hairy looked up from his phone behind the counter.
“Oh. That’s a little awkward. What are you going to do?”
“You’re coming along.”
“N..ne?”
Looks like he spoke too soon.
~*~
Youngwoo was nervous.
She decided to bring Geurami along to the date because it was happening at night, and her Appa told her to date only during the day to be safe. Having Geurami along will solve the issue about safety.
But to be honest, she was comforted that she wouldn’t be alone. This was an entirely different social situation she didn’t have a script for, and having someone familiar by her side made her feel more at ease.
“Aigoo, how could you lose? It was about whales!” said Geurami, her voice on loud speaker as Youngwoo walked into her bedroom. She had called Youngwoo to get an update on the competition.
“He was really good. But I only lost by 1 point, so it was close.”
“It looks like you’ll be going to his restaurant for the date!”
“Yes, hold on, I need to find out what time…” Youngwoo opens the app as her friend chatters away.
“It’s almost a match made in heaven. He tells good whale jokes, he even cooks gimbap, and he’s nice. I’m so happy for you Youngwoo-ya…”
“This is no good. His restaurant opens in the evening.”
“What’s wrong with that?”
“Appa said I can only date during the day. It’s not safe.”
“Ah I see. How about making it a double date?”
“Double date?”
“Yes, you can bring a friend along, and he can bring one too. That way, you’re not alone and you’re safe.”
Youngwoo hums. “That makes sense.”
“By the way, I’m that friend. You’re bringing me.”
Youngwoo taps her fingers against her knee, watching the scenery disappear as the train entered a tunnel. Out of the corner of her eye, she notices a tall man with a black backpack staring at her with an odd expression. What was that expression again? She tries to remember the chart of expressions her Appa did for her.
Raised eyebrows, open mouth, wide eyes - was it surprise?
She realises belatedly that she and the handsome stranger are making eye contact. She looks away quickly. How weird. Why was he looking at her? Was there something on her face?
The train comes to a halt, and she stands up. This was her stop. Geurami said she will make her way to the restaurant herself, so she’ll meet her there.
She walks out of the train station, taking stock of her surroundings when she sees the man from the train again. He is wearing the same surprised expression, but then it turns into a friendly smile, and he starts waving at her.
Youngwoo is confused. She looks around her, and back to him. He laughs, and gestures at her to remove her headphones. Nodding, she pulls them off.
“Hello, are you Woo Youngwoo ssi?”
“H..how did you know?”
The man beams. Youngwoo notices he has a warm smile.
“I’m Hairy’s housemate and friend. Ah, I mean Minshik! I’m going to your double date as Minshik’s friend tonight. I’m Lee Junho, nice to meet you!”
“Oh, nice to meet you too. How did you know my name, and that it was me?”
Junho rubs the back of his head sheepishly. “Minshik talks about you, and your name is hard to forget - it can be read forwards and backwards.”
She gasps. “Woo Youngwoo, whether it is read straight or flipped. Kayak, deed, rotator, noon, racecar, Woo Youngwoo.”
He laughs. “That’s right. Woo Youngwoo. A palindrome. Hmm…” Junho turns around and points to the train station sign. “Like Yeoksam Station?”
Her eyes light up. “Do you know many palindromes, Lee Junho ssi?”
~*~
“Youngwoo, over here!” Geurami waves excitedly as she enters the restaurant, standing by Minshik at the counter.
“Oh, who’s this?” She notices the man standing behind Youngwoo.
Junho takes a breath.
“He’s Lee Junho ssi, Minshik’s housemate. He is also good at palindromes.” Youngwoo quips, leaving Junho taken aback, but smiling in response.
“I bumped into Youngwoo ssi at the train station. Hello!”
“I’m Geurami, Youngwoo’s friend.”
“And I hope you’re hungry, because I’ve cooked a lot!” Hairy chuckles.
Youngwoo smiles at him.
“Minshik ssi.”
“Youngwoo ssi”, he gently smiles back.
A beat passes.
Geurami fails to hide her smirk.
Junho stares transfixed at Youngwoo’s smile, and takes in the look on both of their faces. The dull ache returns. He swallows painfully.
Clearing his throat, Hairy waves towards a round table.
“I’m only serving gimbap tonight. I hope that is not a problem?” he winks playfully, as he pulls a chair out for her.
Youngwoo laughs.
~*~
“And then we kept in touch ever since. Right, Youngwoo?”
“De”. She looks at Minshik and Junho. “How did you both become friends?”
“Oh, I was looking for a housemate, Junho moved in, and now I can’t get rid of him”, Minshik jokes, Junho laughing along.
“You’ve seen how amazing his cooking is like, why would I ever move out?” Junho tells Youngwoo, looking at Hairy in his peripheral vision. Hairy nods gratefully.
“But in all honesty, I didn’t know anyone when I was moving here from Jeju. Hairy has been such a good friend.”
“Jeju? You’re from Jeju island?”, Youngwoo perks up.
“De…do you like visiting Jeju island, Youngwoo ssi?”
She is beside herself with joy. “Then have you heard about the rehabilitation of the dolphins Jedol, Sampal and Chunsan?”
“Oh, yes I have. They were released in 2013 right? We sometimes see them and their calves along the coast.”
Her eyes widened. “You can recognise them in the wild?”
“Ah, yes…I had a phase where I loved marine animals when I was younger. I used to take my binoculars with me whenever I went out to see if I could spot any dolphins.”
Quietly, Geurami sips her beer as she takes this interaction in. How interesting.
“I didn’t know that! No wonder you’re so good with whale jokes.” says Hairy, realising too late what he revealed. He smiles sheepishly at Youngwoo.
“You were really good at whale jokes and I didn’t want to lose. And Junho is our resident David Attenborough, so I asked him for help.”
“Omo! So you cheated!” Geurami points accusingly at Hairy.
“Aniyo…it was all in good fun. All is fair in love and war.”
“Minshik ssi…” Hairy gulps as he turns to Youngwoo. “That is not respecting the conventions of fair play.”
She looks at Junho. “Which means he technically won, not you.”
Junho’s tries to keep his traitorous heart from leaping. He looks at Hairy’s stricken expression and interjects, “Ani, ani…it was teamwork. I was only a sounding board. Minshik is already a funny guy.”
Youngwoo continues, “Either way, you must forfeit the game. Do you know what this means?”
The whole room goes quiet with baited breath. Hairy, ashen-faced, stutters, “A..an.niyo. What does it mean?”
Youngwoo smiles. “It means I won. You have to do my date idea as well.”
~*~
Geurami looks at the pair ahead of her, smiling.
“Don’t they make a cute couple, Junho ssi?”
Junho follows Geurami’s line of sight, and sees Hairy walking alongside Youngwoo, with him being on the outer side of the pavement. They are both laughing. The street light hits Youngwoo’s face, making her smile shine out of her eyes. And just like that, he is hit with a wave of jealousy, and looks away.
“Yes, they are very compatible.”
“I thought so too. But it is too early to say…” Junho looks at Geurami, and is taken aback by her exacting gaze. “...what makes two people compatible with each other.”.
“Ah…yes, that is true.”
“Junho ssi”
“Yes?”
“Are you single?”
“Erm, yes.”
“Why?”
“Why? Erm, I guess I haven’t met anyone I liked yet.”
“And what kind of person do you like?”
Junho takes a long look at Geurami. She returns his stare and crosses her arms, defiant.
“Anyone who I can admire and respect. Someone who is smart, honest, and passionate. Someone who I want to cheer on in life.”
Geurami nods. “You’re a strange man, Junho ssi.”
“Oh? Why?”
“You value honesty in a person, but are you honest with yourself?” Her pointed look cuts straight to his soul. He is at a loss of words. Did she know?
Geurami smiles understandingly, “Fair play, Junho ssi. You got to give what you want to receive.”
~*~
“So, what do you think of Hairy?”
Youngwoo looks at Guerami, and then at the train’s ceiling, deep in thought. “He is funny and considerate. He is also a great cook.”
After walking the women to the train station, Hairy and Junho said their goodbyes as they made their way back to close the restaurant properly.
“You think so? What else do you like about him?”
“Hmmm….he knows how to treat people well. He pulled my seat out for me at the restaurant, and made sure I walked safely to the train station. He also served me my favourite food at his restaurant. Minshik ssi is sweet, thoughtful and kind.”
“I see. And what about Junho?”
“Junho ssi?”
Youngwoo wasn’t expecting that question, but considered it seriously all the same.
“I only met Junho ssi today, but he was friendly and warm. He likes palindromes and marine animals too. I haven’t met someone who likes them like me.”
Youngwoo smiles.
“Junho is a good friend to Minshik ssi.”
“Oh, what makes you say that?”
“Hmm, he kept mentioning how great Minshik ssi’s cooking and friendship was. It made Minshik ssi feel nice.”
“Ah, so you noticed that too?” Geurami laughs.
“He did that to make Minshik look good in your eyes.”
“That’s why I said he is a good friend.” smiles Youngwoo.
“Good friends are there for you when you need to be cheered on. Like you.”
“Ah, Youngwoo-ya, don’t start, you’ll get me feeling emotional.”
Geurami gives Youngwoo a hug, which she shrinks from.
“Ah, sorry, I know you don’t like them.”
“Anyway, it doesn’t look like you need any help in the dating department.” She nudges Youngwoo gently on her side.
“What do you mean?”
“Excuse me? Miss ‘You-have-to-do-my-date-as-well’? Who knew you’d be so good at flirting?”
“Aniyo! I was just…”
“Just honest, I know.” Geurami laughs. “Never change, Youngwoo-ya.”
~*~
“How was your day?”
“My day was good, how was…”
“Oh sorry, Junho-ya, I was talking to Youngwoo ssi.” Hairy waves at him from the couch. He turns the phone over so the camera shows Junho in frame.
“Sorry, I thought Hairy was talking to me. Hello Youngwoo ssi!” Junho awkwardly slips his shoes off and jogs over to the phone to greet her.
Youngwoo waves at the camera, but the men can only see her shoulders. “Ah, Youngwoo ssi, I can’t see you again. Can you move the camera so I can see you?” says Hairy.
“Right.” She adjusts the angle, and from the frame, Junho can see the city lights outside her office window.
“Oh, Youngwoo ssi, are you still at the office?” asks Junho.
“Yes, I have a late night. We just wanted to finalise our plans for this upcoming weekend.”
Hairy smiles at Junho. “We’re thinking of going to the arcade.”
“Oh really?” Junho enthuses, weakly. “Isn’t that a very noisy place for Youngwoo ssi?”
“Already ahead of you, we’ll be bringing along her noise-cancelling headphones.” Hairy chimes, as Youngwoo brandishes said headphones for Junho to see.
“That’s good…”
“Did you want to join us?” Hairy asks. Junho looked at his friend strangely. It was the last thing he wanted to do.
These past 2 months, after their subsequent date at the Han River, Hairy and Youngwoo had exchanged numbers and were calling each other every other evening to talk and make plans for their dates. Oftentimes, these chats would happen around the time he was back home.
These feelings will disappear with time, he told himself. You just need time and distance.
But it made it harder for him to move on when they kept inviting him along to their dates.
Junho remembers the time Hairy had invited him to join them for a whale documentary at home. It had been one of the most painful and heart-wrenching moments of his life, watching her across the room. Being so near and yet so far. Her face awashed with the light spilling from the television, her eyes wide with wonderment as she watched the whales soar into the air. He sat there helplessly gawking at her as she beamed at the screen, unable to stop himself from free-falling. He had to feign exhaustion to escape the rest of the evening. When he climbed into bed that night he wondered why his jaws ached, and realised he had them clenched the entire time.
Junho signed up to his company’s corporate basketball sports team the very next day. To avoid being present, he had taken up training after work. But it looks like he couldn’t avoid it today.
“Oh, I might have something planned with Minwoo and some colleagues at work.”
“Your basketball tournament is this weekend? How is your training this evening?” Hairy takes in Junho’s sweaty, dishevelled appearance.
“It was good. But I better let you and Youngwoo ssi go. She is having a late night and I don’t want to take up anymore of your time.”
“Bye Junho ssi!” pipes Youngwoo from the phone. Junho can’t help but smile back. He bows and walks into his bedroom, filing the image of her working with the glow of the cityscape in the backdrop away with his other recollections of her for when he was alone with his thoughts.
Because Geurami was right.
He was very attracted to Youngwoo. Was and still is. She only improved with further acquaintance. And as much as he wanted to deny it, his feelings grew too big to ignore. The thumping of his heart whenever he heard her voice. The way he looked forward to speaking to her through his housemate’s phone. Learning more about her as Hairy shared with him about their dates. His existence had become a joke.
What kind of person was he if he allowed himself to pine after the woman his friend was dating? He tried to feel disgusted at himself. Tried to feel guilty. But no matter how hard he tried, it did nothing to dampen the way he felt about her.
He hadn’t been honest. Not to Hairy or Youngwoo.
But he’d allowed himself one small consolation. He’d stopped lying about his feelings to himself.
~*~
Youngwoo:
Minshik ssi, are you free tonight?
Minshik:
Yes, but didn’t you have your catch-up with your friends tonight?
Youngwoo:
Suyeon is unable to attend tonight, and we were going to the karaoke because Geurami needs to let off steam.
Minshik:
Oh no, what happened?
Youngwoo:
Her boss was rude to her. She punched him, and is now fired.
Minshik:
What! Aigoo, that’s terrible. Let me know if I can help.
Youngwoo:
That is why I’m asking if you are free tonight. I’m not good at karaoke. I usually sit in the corner with my headphones on. It would be good if Geurami had better company.
Minshik:
Got it. Would you like Junho to come along as well?
Youngwoo:
Yes, that would be good.
Minshik:
Okay, sending you his number now. Sorry Youngwoo ssi I have to run, I’m behind on my deliveries. Ask him if he can come along! See you tonight.
- - - - - - - - -
Youngwoo:
Hello, Junho ssi. This is Youngwoo. Are you free tonight?
Junho:
Youngwoo ssi! Good to hear from you. Did Minshik send you my number? Is everything okay?
Youngwoo:
No. I need your help.
Junho:
Sure, anything. When did you need help tonight?
Youngwoo:
Geurami was fired today, and we are going to the karaoke to help her feel better.
Junho:
Ah I see. Are you sure I can be of much help? I’m not much of a singer.
Youngwoo:
I normally have my headphones on. She should have people who can sing with her so she isn’t lonely. I can’t do that.
Junho:
I’m sure your presence is enough, Youngwoo ssi. But yes, I can make it tonight.
KNOCK KNOCK!
Youngwoo looks up from her phone to see Suyeon at her office doorway.
“Here are the booking details of our session at the Karaoke Bar tonight.” She places the print out on the table, and sits across Youngwoo.
“I’m sorry I can’t make it tonight. I’m still stuck on the North Korean public interest case unfortunately. I wish I could be there.”
“I understand.”
“Anyway, did Minshik and Junho say they could come?”
“Yes, they did”
“I’m glad. Well have fun for me. I’ll hear about it tomorrow.”
“Suyeon?”
“Yes?”
“You still have your roller in your hair.”
“Aish!” Suyeon quickly removes the roller away from her fringe.
“Thanks Youngwoo-ya. Back to work for me!”
~*~
“One more time, sing it with me - it’s my lifeeee, it is now or neverrrrrrrrr…” Geurami wails into her mic, her foot on the table, her fist on her chest.
“...I ain’t gonna live foreveeeeerrrrrrrrr”, Hairy screams back, his mic-free hand waving in the air.
Youngwoo sits with her headphones on, squirming softly as she smiles at the sight of her friend rocking out hard with Hairy, her fingers dancing in the air.
Junho, on the other hand, sits gaping at their energy, shaking a tambourine out of beat as he watches the pair bellow the rest of the song out.
The song ends in a roar. Out of tune. Out of breath. Out of fucks to give. It was joyous.
“Next song, what is it? A love song? No, skip it.”
“Oh, how about ‘Ugh’ by BTS?”
“YESSSS. Great song choice, Hairy. Do itttttt!!!!”
It has been over 2 hours, and it doesn’t look like the two of them are close to being done with the night. Junho looks over to where Youngwoo is sitting, noticing she is very still. Her eyes are heavy with sleep. Junho makes a call there and then.
“Hey guys, I’m sorry to do this, but I will have to call it a night. I have an early start tomorrow.” He looks at Hairy and Geurami.
“But please do not stop on my account. You guys continue having fun. I’m sorry I couldn’t stay longer.”
“Ah, are you sure?” Hairy asks, looking hesitant. The song choices they’ve queued looked pretty good.
“Yes absolutely. But er…Youngwoo ssi, how about you? Are you heading home soon? I can walk you back if you are heading off now?”
Youngwoo sits up and smiles gratefully. “Yes Junho ssi, I would like that.”
“Okay then I’ll leave her to your care Junho ssi, thank you for coming along tonight.” Geurami bows.
She looks at Hairy. “Are you still in?”
Hairy grins back, raising the microphone in his hand. “Hell yeah, count me in!”.
~*~
The crisp autumn air hits them on their way out as they leave the karaoke bar, reinvigorating them. Youngwoo immediately releases a sigh of relief.
“Thank you Junho ssi.”
“Oh, they were getting a bit boisterous towards the end there, weren’t they?” He laughs.
“Geurami is always like that, but I didn’t know how much Minshik ssi loves singing until tonight.”
“Haha yeah, he loves to sing when he cooks. He is a lot of fun.”
“I noticed you didn’t sing much tonight though.”
“Oh, yeah. I usually prefer to dance than sing.”
He started the night cheering Hairy and Geurami on, dancing with the tambourine in hand until the evening descended into chaos. As they raged on, he sat down, shaking the tambourine weakly, watching them furiously warble song after song.
“I noticed. You are a good dancer.”
She was watching me dance? Junho shook away those thoughts immediately. This was polite conversation, nothing more.
“Thank you.”
“Erm, Junho ssi, can I ask you for some advice?” Youngwoo asks.
“Sure”, he turns to her, smiling.
And it was at that moment he realised how endangered his heart was.
They were alone together. He was walking her back home, like a boyfriend would under the streetlights late at night. They were having a private conversation, and he had her undivided attention.
It didn’t take much for him to imagine it to be true. Oh how he felt sick inside. Sick with want. Sick with longing.
Especially when she gazed at him with her wide, dark eyes. Like she did now.
He cleared his throat, desperately trying to banish those thoughts away, “What is it?”
“I need some advice about my feelings for Minshik ssi.”
Oh no, Junho thought. He was not prepared for this, if a heart-to-heart was what she wanted.
“Are you sure I am the right person to help you with them? What about your friends?”
Youngwoo hummed with hesitation. “I don’t know who to talk to about this as my friends are biased towards me. But you are Minshik ssi’s friend, so you will have his best interests in mind. And you are always nice and honest. I wanted an honest opinion.”
Honest. That word again.
He takes a heavy breath, “Okay.”
She nods, and starts, “I like Minshik ssi. He is lovely, treats me well, is gentle and patient, and makes gimbap for me. He even lets me talk about whales, even if he doesn’t appreciate them the same way I do.”
“I know all of this. We get along well. And I like him very much for it. But I cannot help but think I should be liking him more than I do. It doesn’t make any logical sense. He is everything that I want. Then why do I feel this way?”
His heart skips a beat. But he struggles, really struggles to be present in the moment. He tries to think about Hairy, singing his heart out at the karaoke bar, oblivious to the fact his relationship is in jeopardy right now.
“What do you think you should be feeling instead?” Junho gently asks.
For the first time, he sees Youngwoo conflicted. “I don’t know.”
Her eyes alight with a realisation. “Could you tell me how you know when you really like someone?”
That was easy to answer.
“You know when you can’t stop thinking about that person. When they preoccupy your thoughts throughout the day.”
“When you start to care about their well-being. You wonder all the time about how they are doing. You constantly want to talk and be around them”
He smiles, looking into the distance, “It is when being in their presence causes your heart to beat faster. It sometimes feels like you can’t breathe, and the oxygen has left the room.”
“Have you ever felt like that, Youngwoo ssi?” He turns to face her, and immediately pauses.
Youngwoo has stopped walking.
Her face is flushed. Her eyes are blown wide. He notices her balled fists and laboured breathing.
Concerned, he walks towards her slowly. “Youngwoo ssi, are you alright?”
Youngwoo gazes deep into his eyes, and he is struck dumb by what he sees reflected back. Longing. Desire.
Emotions he knows all too well.
Junho finds himself on autopilot, gravitating towards her as if he can’t help but be pulled into her orbit.
He stands in front of her, breathing heavily as he watches her face. Her eyes dart rapidly until she closes them tightly, bracing herself for imminent impact.
He can no longer hear the traffic around them, the blood pounding loudly in his ears. He can feel her breath in waves over his face. His eyes lower to her lips.
They were pink, soft and pursed.
They were also a hair’s breadth away.
Unconsciously, he licks his lips, his bottom lip caught in his teeth.
Youngwoo’s eyes flew open.
Junho stumbles back in shock.
She nudges him away as she gasps for breath.
“Y..Yeoksam Station.”
“W..what?”
“Y..Yeoksam Station…my train is leaving….”
Before he could say a word, Youngwoo dashes down the street, towards a train station sign in the near distance.
Junho watches wordlessly after her as he sees her figure disappear into the station, never looking back once.
~*~
Youngwoo:
Junho ssi and I almost kissed tonight.
Suyeon:
WHAT??
WHAATT??
Didn’t you just hang out with Geurami & Hairy?
Youngwoo:
Oh. Suyeon, you’re still awake?
Suyeon:
I’m still at the office, but that’s besides the point.
WHAATTT???
Explain.
In detail.
Youngwoo:
Junho ssi walked me home.
Suyeon:
And?
Why Junho, and not Hairy?
Youngwoo:
He wanted to stay back and continue singing with Geurami.
Suyeon:
Okay, and so Junho walked you home?
Youngwoo:
And then I asked him for advice about my feelings for Minshik ssi.
Suyeon:
Your feelings? Why?
Youngwoo:
Because he is Minshik ssi’s friend, and would be impartial.
Geurami:
Lol, that boy is not impartial, but go on.
Suyeon:
You’re done with karaoke?
Geurami:
Just got back home, but do continue.
What did you ask Junho?
Youngwoo:
I told him I felt I should like Minshik ssi more than I do. And could not understand why I didn't.
Suyeon:
Oh, Youngwoo 🥺
Geurami:
Youngwoo-ya 🥺🥺
Youngwoo:
He then asked me what I thought I should be feeling instead. And I didn’t know.
But then I realised all I needed to know was how to tell if I really liked someone.
Geurami:
And then he told you how?
Youngwoo:
Yes
Geurami:
Of course he did.
Suyeon:
Well, was it useful?
Youngwoo:
Yes
Geurami:
How?
Youngwoo:
Of all the diagnostic elements he described, I could recall one instance when I felt that.
Suyeon:
What was it?
Youngwoo:
When I was chatting with Minshik ssi during the whale-joke competition.
I felt my heart beat increase.
I looked forward to his messages everyday.
Suyeon:
Oh, but that was still with Hairy.
Geurami:
Actually…
Youngwoo:
Junho ssi helped Minshik ssi write the whale jokes. I didn’t know I was writing to him during that time.
Suyeon:
Oh.
OH.
Oh Youngwoo.
Youngwoo:
And through a process of elimination, I have spent 2 months dating Minshik ssi, and that feeling never returned.
Geurami:
And that’s when you knew.
Youngwoo:
Yes.
That feeling returned tonight.
Suyeon:
So why didn’t you end up kissing?
Youngwoo:
I ran away.
Suyeon:
WHATT????
Geurami:
WHAAATTTTTT??? Ya! Youngwoo!
~*~
Youngwoo ssi, I’m sorry about tonight…I want to say
No, more straightforward.
Youngwoo ssi, I’m sorry about tonight…I want to say
Sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable tonight,
Youngwoo ssi. I want to apologise for…
But what was he apologising for? Did he do anything he regretted?
It was 2 am. Junho was lying on his couch at his apartment, wracked with guilt. Guilt over making Youngwoo run away. Guilt over not mending her relationship with Hairy as a good friend should. Guilt for feeling selfishly happy that there was a possibility she could have feelings for him, when it meant hurting Hairy in the process. Guilt for being a rubbish friend, for betraying Hairy by having feelings for his girl. But regret…
The door beeped open, and Hairy’s distinctive burly figure came bumbling through.
Junho immediately put his phone away. He straightens up.
“Hairy, you’re finally back”.
“Oh, Junho, you’re still up? I thought you were tired?” Hairy walks into the living room, his face still red from the night’s activities. He stumbles a little bit. Junho watches his friend warily.
“Couldn’t sleep. How did the rest of your night go?”
Hairy laughs, “That Geurami girl can really hold her liquor and belt out a tune! I don’t know where she gets her energy from.”
He nods at Junho, “By the way, Youngwoo texted me that she’s at home. Thanks for seeing her off.”
“Oh”, and there it was again. The prickly feeling of guilt. “No problem.”
~*~
A week passes by, and Junho has come to the resolution that he will talk to Hairy about what transpired that night. He decides to do this before Hairy’s special menu launch next week.
He finds his opening later that evening, while they were lounging on the couch with the television on.
“How are your preparations for your launch?”
“Good. Good. A bit nervous but the feedback has been good. I am feeling positive.”
“Good. Great.” Junho pauses.
“I’m sure Youngwoo would be thrilled. Will she be coming to the launch?”
“Ah, about that Junho…” Hairy fidgets.
“There is something I should tell you.”
“Youngwoo and I decided to mutually end things a few days ago.”
“What?” Junho jumps upright.
“But, how…”
“It was a long time coming. We both knew we didn’t have, what do you guys call it? The ‘spark’?”
“But we really enjoyed each other's company so we were confused about what to do. We were both sad to see it end, but decided to remain friends. It’s for the best.”
He looks at Junho, “What do you think? I know you must be disappointed…”
Junho looks at his friend. It was now or never.
~*~
Youngwoo looks at the dating app on her phone, her thumb hovering over the uninstall button.
As much as she had a great experience with Minshik, she wasn’t sure if she could go through that again any time soon. Not when she still had to get over her feelings for someone.
A notification popped up on her screen that almost made her drop her phone.
1 MESSAGE FROM LEE JUNHO
Junho:
Hi Youngwoo ssi, are you well? Would you be free to meet up?
~*~
“Junho ssi.”
At the sound of her voice, Junho jumps and whips around. He had been so far in his thoughts that he had not heard or seen her approaching.
“Youngwoo ssi, are you well?”
“Yes, you wanted to see me?”
Ah, she was always straight to the point.
“Ah, yes. This is for you.” He hands her a food box, Hairy’s Restaurant & Pub ’s logo unmistakable on its cover.
“I thought you might want Hairy’s gimbap from his special menu.”
“Oh, thank you. But Minshik ssi and I are still friends. I can get this anytime.”
“Oh, of course.”
“Geurami works there now. I am planning to go over some time for dinner.”
“Really?” This was news to Junho, but he supposes it is a new development.
He rubs his neck. “I heard from Hairy about what happened between you both, and couldn’t help but think about our conversation that night. I wanted to apologise for making you feel uncomfortable.”
“But you have nothing to apologise for. I think about that night too. You helped me understand my feelings better.”
“Oh, is that right? And what conclusion did you come to?”
Youngwoo smiles, “Based on my heart rate that evening, and my constant thoughts of you, I can safely conclude that I like you.”
Junho thinks his heart is beating uncontrollably that it will fall out of his chest. He doesn’t know how he says the words but they come tumbling out.
“Do you want to hear a whale joke?” he rasps.
Youngwoo beams, and it's so bright it nearly blinds him. “Yes.”
“What did the whale say to the one he loved?”
Youngwoo knows the answer, but she wants him to deliver the punchline. “What did he say?”
Junho takes a step closer to her. This time, she is prepared. She takes in a breath, and looks up.
Slowly, he inches closer. Closer until they were where they were a few weeks ago. His heart flutters erratically in his chest.
“You really don’t know?” he smirks at her, his eyes hot as he takes in her lips.
“I want to hear you say it.” Youngwoo smiles shyly back, the way he is staring at her leaving her breathless.
“I see. Well, then that means you must pay the forfeit.” He tests the waters, and gently rests his hands on her waist. She does not move.
“What is it?” she asks softly, her sweet breath washing over him.
“A kiss”, he murmurs back, his eyes roaming over her face.
Youngwoo places her hands on his chest.
Checkmate.
He swallows.
“What is the answer?” Her fingers dance on his chest.
Junho bends down to whisper the answer in her ear, his hot breath tickling her neck.
“Whale you be mine?”
The words barely leave him when he feels her bridge the gap between them, the soft press of her lips against his, and her hands gripping the front of his shirt.
Surrender never tasted so sweet.