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“Hey! Sana, wait!”
Mina runs in tiny, dashing around the school field, trying to catch someone’s hand that is placed on the pocket of the jacket.
That someone pulls out her hand and the lollipop on her mouth, then takes the left earphone off afterwards, with Mina’s hand still on her arm. She turns back and faces Mina with one eyebrow raised.
As soon as Mina notices that person isn’t Sana, she pulls her hands on that someone’s arm to cover her mouth with both hands then bows repeatedly, “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean it. I thought you were someone I know.”
That someone is tracing Mina’s worried face for seconds and lands back to her eyes.
“Oh? Well, it’s not too late to get to know me too, by the way.”
She puts on a playful smile before suddenly reaching out her hand first to Mina, offering a handshake.
“Im Nayeon.”
Mina is momentarily caught off guard by all of those unexpected responses. She once hesitated before finally returning Nayeon’s waiting hand.
“M-Myoui Mina.”
“Are you new here? I’ve never seen you around before.”
Mina slightly nods, with her head barely moving.
She’s still dumbfounded, but more like embarrassed herself remembering she chased the wrong person. Even though the person in front of her seems not to mind about it.
“Hello? Are you there?” Nayeon continues as Mina looks unfocused.
"Oh, yes. I am."
“I see. So, who are you looking for?”
In the middle of their small conversation, Mina’s phone rings, showing an incoming call from someone named Sana on the display.
On reflex, both of them glance at the screen. Nayeon mumbles a bit, “Oh, it’s Sana-ssi.”
Mina excuses, “Sorry.”
Nayeon nods and signals Mina to pick up the phone.
While Mina is talking on the phone with Sana, Nayeon discreetly smiles as she gazes at her. Nobody really knows what she has in her mind, but it definitely manages to make Mina feel nervous.
“Okay. See you.”
Right after Mina hangs up the phone, she looks up to Nayeon and awkwardly excuses herself, “Uh, Im Nayeon, I’m so sorry but I have to go.”
Mina is stuttered. She’s trying hard to avoid the eye contact while grumbling to herself, “Please. Stop looking at me with those eyes.”
Without even a single word from Nayeon, Mina tries to walk away slowly, walking past Nayeon, who she is standing completely still.
Just one step ahead from Nayeon, Mina turns back her body. Something bothers her mind.
“Im Nayeon, I’m also sorry about the incident. I didn’t mean to take your time. Talk to you later.”
“No problem. You can have my time anytime.” Nayeon playfully replies.
“Okay..”
Nayeon giggles, she finds Mina’s reaction really adorable, so innocent and cute at the same time.
“Oh, just call me Nayeon.”
Mina nods and starts to walk again with eyes closed thinking what she just witnessed before.
10 meters away, a familiar voice coming from afar reaches Mina’s ear. She looks behind and finds Nayeon at the same position.
“Tell Sana, I said hi.” She shouts a bit.
—
The sun isn't too strong this afternoon, it seems like it’s hidden behind those solid clouds.
Today is Mina's second day as a new student, the day after she met someone named Im Nayeon, or just Nayeon that she can’t stop thinking about since yesterday.
The school field is not very crowded, there are only a few classes that have a sports schedule. One of them is Nayeon’s class. And by some luck, Nayeon and Mina meet again, with Nayeon being the first to notice.
There are actually many benches there, but for some reason, that one bench in the corner of the field gets Nayeon's attention. Of course, because Mina is sitting there. Even though the distance is quite far, probably 150 meters away, Nayeon is so certain that person is Mina.
As soon as the coach’s whistle is heard, indicating that their class is over, Nayeon immediately rushes towards one place as she knows exactly where to go in the first place.
A wide smile curves in Nayeon’s face as she sees that Japanese girl sitting alone on the school bench.
“Mina!”
Nayeon tries to call her from afar. But, that girl seems unbothered. She’s way too busy with her book and both earphones on, not even knowing that Nayeon already stands in front of her.
While trying to catch some breaths, Nayeon speaks haltingly, "Hey.. Uh..”
“Eh?”
Mina is shocked with Nayeon’s appearance out of sudden. Instead of the fatigue from running, Nayeon looks more like she’s being chased by some aliens that makes Mina’s worried. She takes off the earphone and lets Nayeon sit on her left.
“Nayeon, are you okay?”
Nayeon nods repeatedly and gives a thumbs up.
Mina closes her book and puts it aside to focus on Nayeon. She looks kinda confused, “Why would you even run?”
“I’m sorry. I just have to, I’m afraid someone will take this empty seat from me.”
“No one would.”
Nayeon laughs and returns Mina’s gaze, “What you’re doing alone here?”
“We have a free class, and uh I’m just trying to catch up on some class materials.” Mina looks at Nayeon and a moment later at the ground.
“Oh, did I bother you?” Nayeon asks.
“Not really.” Mina smiles and looks at the school field to escape Nayeon’s eyes. She surely knows that Nayeon eyes’ all over her now.
She continues, “Besides, wouldn't it feel inappropriate to continue studying while there's someone next to me and I'm ignoring them?”
Mina's response seems way much attractive to Nayeon, she reflexively smiles back.
“Don’t mind me. Just continue.”
“Well, if you say so.”
Mina takes the book while Nayeon is being busy with herself. She pulls a lollipop out of her pocket and unwraps it.
“Do you want?” Nayeon offers, “But, I only got one. So, if you want-”
Nayeon pulls out the lollipop from her mouth and shows it to Mina without finishing her line. Her playful face causes a judging face from Mina, then followed with their both laughters.
“Thank you for your kindness, Nayeon. Seems you need more sugar to keep sane.”
Nayeon laughs then leans on the bench.
“Oh, where’s Sana?”
“She got a headache this morning so she couldn’t come.” Mina answers without even looking at her.
“Oh no, speed recovery, Sana-ssi.” She wishes
Mina is not giving any reaction. Mina seems deeply focused on her reading, not quite noticing that Nayeon is starting to look bored.
“Anyway, I forgot my earphones today. Such a lonely day.” Nayeon grumps, “Would you mind if we share?”
Mina looks unsure as she tries to hand the right side, “Uh.. I don’t think the song would fit yo-”
“It’s okay.”
Nayeon cuts before Mina even finishes her line. She takes the earphone and puts it on her right ear, while Mina seems anxious.
Nayeon and Mina sit side by side on the wooden bench under the cloudy sky, surrounded by the serene ambiance. Not much conversation between them, it’s just a soft piano melody pouring through their shared earphones.
Basically, Mina has one habit: when she’s studying or reading a book, she usually puts on a classic piano melody only, she believes that will help the brain to concentrate more.
But this time, she doesn’t even know why, those melodies seem not working on her. Instead of being more focused, she’s occasionally peeking at the person on her left, Nayeon, with her body leaned on the bench and both eyes closed.
Mina can’t tell if it’s Nayeon being sleepy, bored, or simply just enjoying the sound.
It’s strange enough, but that feeling bothers Mina.
Sneakily, Mina reaches for her phone and adds a random song—which at least something she believes Nayeon will prefer to listen to rather than just a boring and monotonous piano melody—into her playlist queue. Then, she’s back acting as if she's reading the book again.
It only needs the first 3 seconds of the song playing to make Nayeon wake up from her leaning position, “Oh, I love this song.”
Without any suspicion, Nayeon gets carried away by the song. Her body is swaying gently, and her head follows suit, following the rhythm.
“It works!” Mina cheers to herself.
Actually, not much has changed because of that song, it's just that now Nayeon opens her eyes and enjoys the songs, while Mina continues reading.
Until finally a subtle humming emerged in tandem with the song, it sounds much clearer and more beautiful than the sounds on Mina's ear.
“ So lock the door and throw out the key.. ”
As Nayeon starts singing, that's also the time where Mina starts losing her attention to that book.
Her eyes are indeed focused on the sea of words there, but it seems like her whole soul is entirely on Nayeon. It’s obviously shown as she’s still on the same page for the last five minutes.
“.. I'm stuck with you, stuck with you, stuck with you .”
Nayeon now is singing with a clear voice. Her soft voice that nails every note makes Mina’s heart fluttered, as if Nayeon sings for her. Mina's cheeks slowly turn red by just imagining it.
While Nayeon herself, at certain times when she means the lyrics, smiles and gazes at Mina who seems to be busy with her things. In some times, Nayeon intentionally sings with a funny expression, just to make Mina laugh.
As the song plays on, both of them are drowning in their own thoughts with each other.
But, the more they listen to it, the more the lyrics seem to speak for them, representing each other’s feelings towards another.
It's just you and me.
Interestingly, neither Mina nor Nayeon had ever experienced this feeling before, finding themselves sitting beside each other and feeling comfortable with someone they had just met yesterday. There’s no one else, just Mina and Nayeon.
And there's nothing I, nothing I'd rather do.
It's quite clear, Nayeon immediately approaches Mina without any hesitation, and the first time Mina thinks about someone else before herself is when she’s with Nayeon.
I'm stuck with you, stuck with you, stuck with you.
They feel happy being stuck together.
The school bell rings. Today's class is over, and so is their music sharing session.
Nayeon looks at Mina, who is trying to pack her things, observing her every movement.
Something about Nayeon’s loving gaze must have been on Mina’s mind at that time, giving her the courage to ask Nayeon something she never thought she would before. She takes a moment and puts her both hands on her thighs, before finally asking.
“Btw, Nayeon, are you single?”
Without any warnings, Mina's question is like a lightning that strikes through Nayeon's heart.
For a whole minute, Nayeon stares at Mina with an unbelievable look.
“Are you serious?” She laughs, “Why?”
Mina feels down as soon as Nayeon reacts to her question. She falls silent. Mina wonders if she’s wrong, probably it’s too soon jumping to the conclusion that Nayeon would like her too. Even though she finds there's nothing wrong with asking such a simple question.
Nayeon playfully answers with a giggle, “Why? You wanna date me?”
“Nevermind.” A single word just comes out from Mina’s mouth as she stands up and tries to walk past Nayeon.
“Hold up..” Nayeon holds Mina’s arm and tries to get her back.
Nayeon continues, “Yes, I am. But, I’m not sure about the next few days, because I’m currently interested in someone.”
“Who?”
“Only if you figure it out.” She teases.
“How?”
Nayeon grabs her phone, taps on something, then hands it to Mina. The screen phone is showing a dial pad, “I need your number to tell you updates about the girl that I like.”
“Just say you need mine.” Mina replies with a sassy face and takes Nayeon’s phone, typing her number.
“I do.”
They both shyly laugh.
As if there’s an easy recipe, Nayeon has all the ways to get Mina’s heart.
They walk side by side after, heading back to the school buildings.
“Do you need a clue?”
“No.” Mina insists.
“New stu-”
“Ahh. I said no. I don’t wanna hear it.” She starts to gibber and covers her both ears with hands, causing a burst of laughter from Nayeon.
Love and laughter fill the air when Mina and Nayeon walk together, joking around.
And without their realizing, they have become the center of attention, drawing all eyes towards them at that school.
—
Giving her number to Nayeon might be the best decision Mina ever made. Because since then, day after day, their interests for each other grows even more.
Buzz…
And every time Mina's phone buzzes, she knows that it’s a message from Nayeon.
Just as during Mina’s sports class break. After having a marathon running, Mina takes a break and stands on the field’s sidelines. She looks at the phone and there’s a message from Nayeon just a minute ago.
“I saw you.”
“On your 1 o'clock, second floor.”
Mina tilts her head up and looks at the exact point as Nayeon's orders. She finds Nayeon in the corridor on the 2nd floor.
Nayeon is standing there, with a bright smile and her bunny teeth, waving her hand at Mina and mouthing something like Fighting! with the hand gesture.
Mina replies Nayeon, mouthing her with Thank you and copying the way Nayeon did that before, which makes Nayeon laugh.
A moment later, Nayeon grabs her phone and appears busy tapping on the screen, smilingly looking at Mina after.
Mina can tell that Nayeon is telling her something through the phone because the range is quite far that you have to shout, which is not a good idea to do.
Buzz…
“You look so pretty.”
Another message that manages to make Mina blush and cover her face after reading Nayeon's message.
“No way? I'm all sweaty.”
She types on the phone while putting on her doubting face.
“Absolutely. Looks even better.”
“Stop it.”
“By the way, free class?”
“HAHAHA”
“Nope”
“I get punished for not collecting homework”
“You didn’t do it?”
“I did”
“But, I told the teacher that Kookeu ate it, so I can see you now.”
“Such a fool.”
“For you, yes.”
They both smile like crazy, taking turns glancing at their phones’ screens and lifting their heads to find the person they are talking to on the phone right within their sight.
—
And that time when Mina is with Sana, walking down the corridor on the 1st floor heading to the cafeteria at the corner of the building, they pass several school rooms.
And in one of the rooms they pass, there’s a buzzing noise coming.
Buzz…
“Lab on your left.”
After reading the message, Mina's steps are slowing down, and she peeks through the window into the laboratory on her left. There, Mina finds Nayeon at the back row waving and brightly smiling at her.
Mina smiles shyly without returning Nayeon's wave, she’s just nodding. She feels that by returning the smile, she is already conveying to Nayeon that she sees her too.
Mina's gaze shifts to her phone screen after. She chuckles softly while busy replying to Nayeon's message.
Without her noticing, Sana is walking a few steps ahead.
“Mina, come on. Why are you walking so slow? I’m hungry.”
“Sorry, sorry.”
Mina runs a little to catch up with Sana and passes that laboratory room.
—
Those are just a few of the million things Nayeon does to let Mina know that she likes her, how attentive Nayeon is when it comes to Mina. She always makes sure that Mina never loses her smile even once.
Although most of the time, Mina is more likely to freeze up and not know how to respond to Nayeon, instead she just smiles all day long.
No one can describe how the little things Nayeon does manage to make Mina fall even deeper for her.
And for Nayeon, there's nothing more elating than finding the person she likes within her sight, letting her know, and seeing that damn sweet smile over and over again.
—
The rumor of Nayeon and Mina dating is spreading like wildfire, causing quite a buzz among the students. How could it not? Considering Nayeon's well-known cheerful and friendly personality, and Mina, the new student, who has caught everyone’s attention since the day one, are in the dating scene.
Both of them have their own way to face that.
Nayeon seems unbothered about it. Nothing really affects her, she just keeps spoiling Mina at any chances she has.
Unlike Nayeon, Mina tends to cover and keep it lowkey. She doesn’t even say a single thing to Sana about Nayeon. It’s not that she’s not believing in Sana, but she is just unconvinced that Nayeon really likes her.
But no matter how Mina pretends and covers it up, it’s too obvious and the news of her dating already reaches Sana's ears.
This afternoon, they walk towards the library to look for the books for their school project. As they pass the school field, they hear someone calling out from a distance.
“Mina! Sana!”
It's Nayeon in her sports attire, running in tiny to catch up with them as they both glance back after hearing Nayeon call their names.
Nayeon takes out the lollipop from her mouth before finally speaking, “Oh, hey.” Nayeon’s eyes seem locked on Mina, while Mina tries to escape it.
“Here we go.” Sana teases.
“Hahaha hi, Sana.” Nayeon giggles and continues, “I’m sorry, but can I have your friend for a moment? Promise, it won’t take long.” She talks to Sana.
“What are you gonna do to her, Nayeon?”
“Private business.” Nayeon grins, “So, can I?”
“Yeah, of course. Take your time, Mina-yeon.” Sana replies, gesturing towards them both.
Laughter fills the air, especially from Nayeon. She approves, “Nice one.”
“Oh, Mina. I'll be waiting inside.” Sana says as she’s lightly patting Mina's shoulder before turning away. She steps away heading towards the library and leaving the two alone.
Just as soon as Sana disappears, Nayeon asks Mina, “Um, is it okay? Are you busy?”
Mina shakes her head slightly, "No, not really. We just wanna find some books for the class project." She replies softly.
“Oh, okay then. So..”
Nayeon is now facing Mina, who tends to look at the ground, possibly because she's shy or just cautious in this situation with Nayeon, especially after the rumor spread.
Shortly after, Nayeon seems busy rummaging through her pockets, as if something she's looking for has gone missing, while Mina is looking worried scanning their surroundings.
“Nayeon, do you know the rumor?”
“What?”
“Don’t play dumb.” Mina insists.
“Yes, yes, I do.” Nayeon admits, giggling without even looking at Mina. She continues checking her pockets with one hand while the other hand holds the lollipop. She is muttering, “Uh, where is it.. Oh, I got it.”
“Then? What about it?” Mina asks.
“Um.. Actually that’s the reason I’m here.”
Nayeon smirks, then pulls out a cute band aid from her pocket. Mina furrows her forehead, not understanding what that's for. Band aid? She doesn't even need that.
“Huh? What is it?”
Without any explanation, Nayeon puts the lollipop in her mouth then retrieves the band-aid. She steps closer to Mina, then carefully places it on Mina's flawless cheek. There's not even a single wound or scratch there, which confuses Mina of Nayeon’s action. But instead, she can only remain silent and let Nayeon do whatever it is.
Mina’s heart is racing fast. This is the first time where she gets this close to Nayeon’s face. Mina holds her breath when Nayeon’s face is only a few inches away from hers. And at one point, she closes her eyes, not wanting Nayeon to know that she's feeling embarrassed, her cheeks subtly blushing.
“Done.”
As she’s done and before stepping back, Nayeon gently brushes her thumb across Mina's cheek, ensuring the band-aid is securely in place, or perhaps taking advantage of the moment. But, one thing for sure, it succeeds in making Mina's heart beat much faster, as if it is about to burst.
“What is this for?” Mina asks.
Nayeon proudly smiles and tilts her head to the side, revealing one of her cheeks adorned with the same cute band-aid she had placed on Mina earlier.
Nayeon’s gesture says something like ‘I got it too’. Perhaps Mina was too busy ignoring Nayeon's gaze to even notice the presence of the band-aids from the beginning.
“The rumor is boring, let’s spice it up.”
“Are you serious?” Mina laughs, thinking Nayeon must be joking.
“Hell yeah I am. Everyone is crazy about you, Mina,” Nayeon finishes the last bite of her lollipop then throws its stick to the nearest trash bin, then smirks at Mina, “Let's make them jealous.”
Nayeon continues to speak excitedly, “And this gonna be the hint that we're secretly dating.” She is pointing both hers and Mina’s cheek.
Mina is about to open her mouth, probably complaining, but as soon as she does, Nayeon talks again, “Don’t worry, I got tons of this. We just need to meet at this spot every morning.”
“Oh-I’ll give you my lollipop too. It’s the less sugar one, if you’re afraid.” Nayeon keeps talking and laughs.
Actually, it's not the shortage of band-aids or lollipop stuff that Mina is worried about, but the intention behind Nayeon's statement “We’re secretly dating” that is bothering her.
But, looking at Nayeon's excitement, Mina can’t resist and simply nods in agreement. Whatever that makes Nayeon happy is just what she has in mind now.
With a playful roll of her eyes, Mina gives in, her smile growing into a grin.
“Alright. But, I think we need more?”
Nayeon raises her eyebrows. “Huh?”
Mina takes something from her pocket, pulling out a close-up polaroid of herself in sport attire, then handing it to Nayeon.
Nayeon takes it, scanning every detail on that photo. A big smile lighting up her lips, as she is familiar with the photo scene.
“I was taken by Sana, the day when you said I look pretty.” Mina explains, she looks nervous, “You can keep it behind your phone case, everyone will notice.”
Nayeon nods repeatedly, her expression indicating immense satisfaction with Mina's idea.
“Alright, let's give them something to talk about.”
—
The library rules clearly forbid noise, but Sana can't resist the urge to speak to Mina, who has just arrived and appears with new features on her face: a band aid and a wide smile. Sana knows exactly that it's one of Nayeon's doings.
Since the first day the rumor spread, Sana has wanted to confirm with Mina, but for some reason, she never seems to find the right time. And Nayeon's presence earlier makes her think that this may be the perfect opportunity.
“Mina,” she whispers, tilting her head closer to Mina, “What’s with the band aid? What did she do to you?”
Mina bows her head, covering her head with the book and trying not to laugh.
“Look. About the rumor, is it true?”
Another question comes from Sana before she moves closer to Mina. This one seems serious that Mina wakes her head up. The previous wide smile starts to fade slowly.
Mina looks at Sana with a mixed expression, perhaps a blend of unsurement and contemplation, but Sana understands that it isn't a ‘yes’ answer to her previous question.
“If it’s not, I just want to warn you, that’s just how Nayeon is. She likes to play around and tease a lot. I’m saying this because I’m afraid you get feelings…” She continues, “..which I thought you already did.”
Mina thinks that what Sana just said might be true.
The first thing, for the past two weeks, Nayeon has been consistently showing attention and affection towards her. In other words, if she truly likes Mina, wouldn't she confess? But the truth is Nayeon never did.
The second thing, Nayeon is known to be famous. And her request for heating up their dating rumor, it could be for Nayeon’s fun only as she lets anyone know that she could get Mina.
Mina's thoughts drift far away in the silence of the library, while her heart is shattered into million pieces.
“But could Nayeon really be that mean?” Mina thinks to herself as she touches the band-aid on her left cheek.
She finally replies to Sana, with hopelessness drawn on her face, “What should I do?”
“Damn it, I gave her the polaroid.” Mina suddenly taps her forehead as she recalls her own idea to Nayeon.
“Ssshhh.”
As Mina's voice accidentally slips out, a sharp hush pierces the air, accompanied by a cautionary look from a nearby table. Both Mina and Sana respond with a slight bow, feeling sorry before lowering their voices.
“She asked you for something, right?”
Mina nods. No words come from her mouth.
“Don’t fall for her game if she doesn’t mean it,” Sana continues, in a hushed tone. “There are so many girls out there that you can pull though.” She tries to lighten the atmosphere with a playful joke.
Mina manages a small smile. But, Sana’s words carry a weight of concern afterwards.
“I'm saying this because I don't want you to get hurt.” She adds, straightening back up after leaning slightly towards Mina.
Mina nods again but this time slowly, as if grasping exactly what she will do to Nayeon next. Her decision is now firm that she will try not to fall for Nayeon and her ‘game’.
—
Buzz… buzz…
Tons of buzzing voices are flooding Mina’s phone on the desk. Numerous voices as messages from someone named Nayeon pop up on the screen.
“Mina.”
“I’m at yesterday's spot already.”
“Bought you some of my favorite gummies too!”
Buzz… buzz…
“Are you late?”
“My class starts in 10 minutes. Are you coming?”
Yes, she arrived a half hour before Nayeon texts her.
Mina isn't in class right now; instead, she's in the library—at least until the first class begins. She agrees with Sana to hide herself from Nayeon.
She anticipates that Nayeon will reach her out, and there's a high chance that Nayeon will come to her class and ask Sana about her whereabouts, so she hides where Nayeon can’t find her.
Mina merely glances at the notification on her phone screen, knowing it's exactly from Nayeon.
“There's no way a new student would dare to be late, Nayeon.” Mina talks to herself.
Mina deliberately chooses to ignore Nayeon, even though it weighs heavily on her. Typically, notifications from Nayeon are the most anticipated messages she receives every day at school. They are the reason she eagerly sets off around these two-week mornings.
Mina's consistency might be as steadfast as a rock. She does her best not to open Nayeon's chat room. Although several times she almost accidentally taps on it.
The school bell rings, but it seems that's not what Mina is waiting for. She bites her lips as she stares at her phone screen, waiting for something that could confirm that her situation is safe.
Buzz… Yes, a text from Sana.
“She’s gone. You can come.”
—
The next morning is Mina and Sana sport day, which Nayeon knows for sure. It’s obvious since it’s a week after the exact day when sweet memories happened.
“Mina, are you okay?”
“You’re not replying to me.”
“Anyway, sports class now?”
Nayeon looks busy tapping the screen on her phone, sending messages to Mina. She stares at the room chat for a while. It seems abandoned. Since yesterday she hasn’t received even a single message from Mina, or even seen her, which makes her wonder.
Nayeon raises her hand, excusing the teacher to go to the toilet. This time she has to see Mina.
Mina is sitting at the same bench, that may become her favorite spot for some reason. She’s sometimes peeking at the front of that specific class where she found Nayeon last week, waving at her.
As if a hard-to-swallow pill, today—no, everything is different now. Mina just has to accept the fact that she’s on a mission to ignore Nayeon. Although several times she hopes Nayeon is there.
In one of the peeking moments, Mina is startled when her eyes catch a familiar figure walking towards her that makes her heart race.
Before Nayeon can call out to her, she immediately stands up and runs across the field away from that bench, joining Sana in the basketball game. Meanwhile, Nayeon is left behind, clueless. A wistful smile is drawn on her lips.
—
In the middle of the night—late enough for a high schooler to stay up, Nayeon stares at the ceiling of her room. She can’t sleep, something is bothering her. There's no one else on Nayeon's mind right now except Mina.
Tomorrow marks four days since Mina started ignoring Nayeon. The only strange feeling that haunts Nayeon is Mina distancing herself without any reason. Yet, the last time, before Mina completely acts like a stranger, she seemed happy and even offered her polaroid for Nayeon to keep.
Nayeon rises from her bed and sits on the edge of it. She retrieves Mina's polaroid from behind her phone case. She gazes at Mina's smiling face in it; she really means it. This girl is so beautiful that she manages to steal Nayeon’s heart, which Nayeon feels she has truly lost now.
Nayeon feels a slight ache in her heart as she remembers all those things. She can’t help but send Mina tons of messages.
“Mina..”
“Have you figured it out? The girl that I like.”
She keeps texting again, her lips curving a weak smile.
“Update: The girl that I like went missing!”
“Have you seen her?”
She gives up playing as she stares at those unreplied texts.
“Is it really over before it’s even starting? :(”
“I didn’t even stand a chance?”
“Mina, what did I do wrong?”
“I miss you.”
“Do you find someone else?”
Nayeon lays herself on the bed. Overthinking consumes her energy so much. She falls asleep with Mina's polaroid in her hand and thoughts in her mind.
Next hours, Mina wakes up to her notification full of Nayeon’s messages while she was on Do Not Disturb mode.
She sighs. She actually feels sorry seeing Nayeon’s reactions these days. Little did she know, it breaks her heart too. But, as Sana said she needs to prioritize her own self afterall, so she tries to keep going, at least until Nayeon really confesses.
—
It’s still the same day, the fourth day since Mina has been dumping Nayeon.
Today is Wednesday, the day when their school has a long break for activities outside of regular academic classes, such as extracurricular activities, doing hobbies, self-study, or just free time. Nayeon used to spend this time with Mina, as she is going to do today, but with a different situation.
There’s no way, after tons of messages and moments, Mina keeps ignoring her. Does Mina get someone else? But why is it so fast as if what they did those whole days means nothing.
So, Nayeon is taking a brave step, trying to meet Mina in her class and confront whatever is happening to them. What makes Mina act like that. Whatever it is, Nayeon has to be ready.
And, it's now or never. If she continues behaving like this, letting Mina do whatever she does, sooner or later she is gonna really lose Mina.
It is probably one of Nayeon’s luck that her class is over before the school bell rings. At least she is having a little bit more time to prepare before finally reaching out to Mina.
A couple of eyes in the corridor are on Nayeon, who is standing beside Mina and Sana’s class and taking a peek inside. She has nothing in mind other than just to make things clear with Mina, so she doesn’t really care about it.
Just as the bell rings and the teacher exits, she waits for a few seconds before appearing herself in front of the class. She bravely takes a step towards Mina that is standing too. They’re facing each other. Mina is trying hard to keep her shocked face at bay upon seeing Nayeon in front of her.
Nayeon starts the conversation, “What did I do wrong? You’re avoiding me these days.” Her hopeless face shows it all. Mina is actually dumbfounded but trying to keep it cool.
“Do you find someone else?” She asks like there’s no other person in that class than Mina.
Like watching a real-life drama, none of the classmates seem to be leaving the class, probably afraid of missing the scene of this rumored dating couple. Even Sana, that is sitting beside Mina, is pretending to focus on her math work, tapping a pen on her head.
Mina plays it off, “Why? You wanna date me?” The exact tone as Nayeon’s answer on that day when she asked if Nayeon was single. She smirks.
“Hell yeah.” Nayeon answers with no hesitation.
Nayeon's response is actually leaving Mina stunned. She isn't prepared for that answer at all. She truly thinks Nayeon will feel ashamed and regret it when Mina plays with her, but instead, it backfires on Mina.
Seconds after, Nayeon’s voice is heard, it gets weaker, “I like you, Mina. I-”
“Fuck off, Nayeon.”
Mina shoves Nayeon aside as she strides forward, leaving not only Nayeon, but everyone in the class speechless.
The second after Mina passes her standing self, Nayeon perceives the changes in Mina’s face, witnessing anger into sadness. She runs after Mina. They really leave the entire room silent.
Nayeon quickens her pace, trying to catch up with Mina who is possibly ten steps ahead of her.
While Mina walks aimlessly. She actually doesn't know where she's headed, this school is quite vast for a two-week old new student. She just keeps walking as far as possible to avoid someone that she knows exactly is chasing her from behind.
Until the time where Mina’s step is stopped, as they find themselves tucked away in a secluded spot behind the school. There is a dead end so she inevitably has to turn around and face Nayeon.
It’s only the two of them. They stand face to face—or it’s not really because Mina’s face is more likely facing the ground. The silence exchange unfolds between them before Mina finally breaks the silence.
“What? What do you want from me?” Mina's shaky voice fills the air.
Nayeon raises her eyebrows, she looks confused. “What do you mean? I don’t get it.”
A deep exhale comes from Mina. Her tone grows even more heated. “All of those games, what was that for, Nayeon? To let anyone know that we’re secretly dating, while we never did? You’re telling people that you can easily get me?” She raises her voice.
“And suddenly confessed in front of everyone. Is that also part of your games, Nayeon? You make me look dumb.” She looks at Nayeon with sorrowful eyes, “You get it now?”
Nayeon's eyes widen in realization. “Mina, I-I never thought you liked me too. So, I thought we were just having fun.”
“Fun?” Mina scoffs. “Do you think my feelings are a joke to you? Stop doing something you never mean, Nayeon.”
“No, of course not,” Nayeon denies quickly, telling everything that Mina just said isn’t true. She is stepping closer. “Listen, I mean it. I've liked you since the first day you appeared in front of me, Mina. Playing around just because I don’t know how to deal with my own feelings. I thought by doing this I could slowly express it, but the truth is I’m still a coward.”
Nayeon takes a deep breath. “Since the day you decided to avoid me. You had no idea how clueless and desperate I am. I can’t do that anymore, so I come to you. I can only think about you, Mina. I never give a shit to any of them.”
As if a perfect explanation, it leaves Mina speechless. She feels this is already enough. Even though this isn't the confession she ever imagined, she knows well how Nayeon keeps looking for her, despite Mina's firm actions towards her, serving as proof of her words.
Mina finally speaks up. “Nayeon, I’m sorry.”
“No, I'm sorry,” Nayeon lowers her voice, a tinge of regret is clearly heard. "I never meant to be like this. I like you, Mina. I’m such a cowa-”
Mina hugs Nayeon as soon as she starts to look down, cutting her unfinished line. “It’s okay.” She doesn’t know how to deal with words, so she gives Nayeon an embrace instead.
Mina believes that Nayeon isn't the one to blame. It’s just a misunderstanding. Her feelings for Nayeon remain unchanged; even on the days when she tries to keep her distance from Nayeon, she finds herself lost too. And for Nayeon, it's clear without any explanation.
Mina steps back after giving the unreturned hug to Nayeon. As they stand facing each other, they exchange glances, and smiles once again grace their lips.
It’s quite awkward at first that they shyly laugh a lot. Mina is the one who initiates the conversation.
“So, who’s that girl, Nayeon? The girl that you like.”
“Thought you’ve figured it out.” She talks with a doubtful face.
“I’m afraid I’ll guess it wrong.”
“No. It's you. Myoui. Mina.” She emphasizes the last two words.
“Hmm.” She places her index finger on her chin, playfully thinking. They both giggle afterward.
Closing the gap, Nayeon takes steps forward. As Nayeon's body is getting closer, so is her face, Mina can see clearly the whole features in Nayeon’s face. She is noticing something.
“Where’s the band aid?”
“Oh. I never used it after that.”
“I’m so sorry.” Mina pouts.
Nayeon chuckles, jokingly responds to Mina, “It’s okay. Besides, I don’t wanna look dumb alone.”
Seeing that, Mina is about to complain with a fake mad, “So you’re saying?”
“Yeah, at least we both would look dumb.”
Mina rolls her eyes, while Nayeon giggles at Mina’s expression.
“You know what? Actually, it seems like the band-aids agenda might not be enough to spice up the rumor. We can make it spicier.” Mina tries to tease.
“Like what? Kissing in the middle of the school field so everyone would notice?” In a playful retort, Nayeon teases right back.
“No way. You want us to get kicked out?”
Teasing Mina is one of Nayeon’s most favorite things to do. Mina looks very innocent and suddenly gets a slight panic whenever Nayeon does that.
At one moment, after their laughter subsides, almost by chance, their eyes meet. As their gazes lock, their heartbeats race in tandem.
Something in Nayeon’s mind needs to be spoken, “Mina, I like you.” The sweetest three words that have been stuck in her mind for almost every second, but she gets the chance to say it now. This time, Nayeon chooses not to be a coward.
“Me too.” Mina simply replies.
“I don’t get it. Say it.”
“I like you too, Im Nayeon.” Mina says, she covers her rosy face. She fans her face with one hand, acting like the temperature around her has suddenly risen.
No metaphor could describe the sweetness of Mina’s smile and her adorable blushing gestures, to the point that Nayeon also blushes in response.
It’s almost like a million times now that they are lost in each other's eyes. It’s like their eyes even speak one to another, conveying feelings that words can’t even express.
A gentle breeze hits their skin transferring shivers to their spine. The feelings that probably everyone gets where this leads, including Nayeon.
Nayeon gently reaches Mina’s chin. Her big hand is enough to cover Mina's entire jaw. And their no height difference makes Nayeon just need to come closer and tilt her head slightly to reach Mina's soft lips.
Time seems to slow down, the slowest they've ever felt. The world around them fades into a blur as their lips meet. The term ‘butterflies in the stomach’ is really defined now. Their heart is so full that it probably can explode any time with the intensity of their emotions.
After seconds, Mina slowly pulls away. With Nayeon’s hand still on her jawline, she finds herself nervous and breathless as if lacking oxygen because of their kiss. It’s so close that they can feel each other's soft breath.
“Are you okay?” Nayeon seems worried, making sure to Mina while rubbing her thumb to Mina’s cheek.
Mina nods and laughs in tiny, “It’s my first time.”
“I’m sorry.” Nayeon takes her hand and look at Mina, “We can finish here if you’re not comfo—”
“No, no. It’s okay, just continue.” Mina cuts.
Nayeon looks a little hesitant, so Mina takes the first move to lift Nayeon's chin and lands another kiss in return. It gets even more intense than before, probably because Mina initiates it.
Unconsciously, Mina's hand moves to Nayeon's nape to deepen their kiss. Nayeon is almost taken aback, but she thinks maybe this isn't the right time to waste a moment like this so she ain’t complaining. Instead, she put her hands on Mina’s waist to hold her closer.
They run out of breath, as if they've just run a mile.
It’s almost like a candy floss that lands on the wet lips, the soft and sweet feelings that melt and make you crave for more. Their intertwined lips against each other could tell that nothing else matters than this moment, as if this is the best kiss they ever had in their entire lives, even though it’s actually their first.
It just happened for a few minutes, but the memory lasts for eternity.
They remain in the same position after their lips release; Mina is still wrapped in Nayeon's arm. They're facing each other with flushed faces, but can't even maintain eye contact afterward. The amazement on their faces shows that what they just did was never on their bingo list.
“Anyway, the kissing agenda might not be a bad idea.” Mina whispers just to back fire Nayeon’s previous flirty response, “But I think it takes a lot of practice for me.”
Nayeon nods then laughs, her head tilts back, facing the sky before looking at Mina. “Sure, I don’t mind. I can do it all day.” She bravely replies.
Not a long time after they’re having the rest moment, the school bell rings. Break time is over and they have to go back. With a full smile and blush on their faces, they walk side by side with their hands intertwined, returning as the most romantic couple you’ve ever seen as if it wasn’t them that had a big fight before. All eyes are on them while they’re having their small conversation.
“Are you really sure that was your first kiss?” Nayeon looks at Mina doubtfully.
Mina looks back at Nayeon with one eyebrow raised. She pouts. “Is it really bad?”
Nayeon quickly reassures her, shaking her head with a smile. “No, no. It’s a compliment, it’s so good.”
“Thank you.” Mina blushes, she throws another glance at Nayeon. “How about you? You must’ve experienced enough.”
“Surprisingly, that's also my first.” Nayeon sounds proud.
“Liar.”
“No. I’m dead serious.”
“Liar..” Mina jokingly insists.
“Okay. I’ve done it twice.” Nayeon gives up. A smile on Mina’s face seems to fade away, she releases their hands, jealousy is clearly shown on her face.
Before Mina even responds, Nayeon clarifies. “And both were with you.”
“Huh?”
“You kissed me twice, Myoui Mina.”
“No. Just once, another one was initiated by you, Im Nayeon.” She protests, not accepting Nayeon’s words. She calls Nayeon back with her full name that makes Nayeon laugh a lot.
Their walk is filled with unserious yet cute arguments that successfully capture everyone's attention.
—
There have been almost no sad days for Nayeon and Mina since then. There’s no more dumping each other, missing in action, being a coward, or anything else. Everything has been getting better and better since that day.
Today marks a few weeks since Nayeon first confessed her feelings to Mina in a secluded spot behind the school that afternoon, or simply after their first kiss. Don’t ever try to guess how many times they did after that day, but for sure they never kissed in the place where Nayeon suggested.
After taking some courage for weeks, at least until she feels enough, she asks Mina out. She carefully chooses her words and prepares herself for Mina's answer, even though she knows there's no reason for Mina to say no.
When Mina's eyes meet Nayeon's in a moment of silence, she smiles softly and nods.
“Of course, Nayeon, I'd love to.”
An answer that Nayeon has hoped for all along and one that Mina has wished to say earlier.
The news of them dating has spread throughout the school. How could it not? Nayeon truly proved that she was no longer a coward, not only by asking Mina out but also doing it in the middle of the field, witnessed by many.
Minayeon.
Everyone’s favorite couple. The cute nickname was unintentionally initiated by Sana at first before everyone started to call it the same.
Right in the same bench where everything happened; the first time they listened to a song together, they spent time at, and then the place where Nayeon asked Mina out, they two sit next to each other. It becomes their favorite spot now, it’s always empty as if no one even dares to sit on it except them.
Nayeon offers one of the earphones to Mina, plugging it into her left ear. She looks busy scrolling and finding the right song to put on. A second later, she gets something. “Oh oh! I want this song.”
She puts down the phone and slowly glances at Mina. Their smiles mirror each other's as the song’s playing, probably having the same things going in their mind.
“This has always been my favorite song. It reminds me of us that day.” Nayeon smiles broadly with her bunny teeth, followed by Mina’s nods and her cute gummy smile.
“By the way, Nayeon. Do you have any idea how down bad I was to you?” Mina plays Nayeon’s hand and looks at her, giggling.
“Oh, were you? Tell me.” She shifts her position a bit, getting ready for Mina’s answer.
“That day, I was so afraid that you’re bored and left me because of my boring ass piano melody. So, I put a random song, hoping you like it. Then, turned out you sang to it.” Mina tries to hold her laugh and covers her shy face. “I even imagined you meant the whole lyrics to me. God damn, that’s so embarrassing.”
Mina’s confession makes Nayeon uncontrollably laugh. She lightly hits Mina’s arms. Instead of getting upset by the laughter, Nayeon's infectious laugh tickles Mina's stomach.
“Stop!!” Mina tries to stop it but ends up laughing together.
Nayeon takes her breath and wipes her teary eyes. “Babe, you know what? I also imagined that I sang it to you, but you looked so serious to that damn book.”
“Mind you, I didn’t even read it. I lost in your voice, Nayeon.”
They continue to laugh until their cheeks start to ache.
After that cute confession, they’re back leaning to the bench, holding hands, and enjoying the scenery of the green field with the song still on repeat in their ears.
“I can’t believe now I relive this moment again.” Nayeon talks with her eyes gazing down at their interlocked hands. “The same place, same song, same feelings, and same person but now is my girlfriend.”
Nayeon stares at Mina, a reflexive giggle escapes from her mouth remembering her confession, but she tries to keep it serious after.
“I mean this song, like every word in this song speaks my feelings to you. Since the very first place, I let you drive me insane and there’s really nothing I’d rather do than be stuck with you.”
Mina still remains silent while looking at their hands, which Nayeon notices. “Damn, that’s so cheesy but whatever I mean it.” It causes a tiny laugh from Mina.
Between them two, Nayeon is indeed the more talkative one. Knowing that Mina isn't good at making words, she doesn't mind if Mina can't always respond. For Nayeon, Mina's gaze says it all, even the things that can’t be put into words.
Amidst the bustling school field, it feels quiet because none of them are talking. But finally, Mina opens her mouth. Her voice trembles slightly, holding back tears.
“Nayeon, thank you.” She stares at Nayeon’s loving eyes. “I love you.”
“I love you even more, Mina.”
—