Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Yujin stretched her legs out on the bleachers, leaning back on her hands as the cool evening air settled over the football field. The floodlights buzzed faintly above them, casting long shadows as her friends lounged around, their conversation drifting from class gossip to the upcoming Valentine's Day.

“I can’t believe it’s already next week,” Rei sighed, twirling a strand of her hair. “Another year of watching couples be all lovey-dovey while I suffer in loneliness.”

“Speak for yourself,” Ryujin snorted, tossing a bottle cap at her. “I, for one, am thriving in my single era.”

Jimin laughed, adjusting the sleeves of her blazer. “Please, Ryujin. The only reason you’re single is because you reject every person who confesses to you.”

“Exactly. No distractions. No problems,” Ryujin said smugly.

Yujin chuckled, her gaze drifting towards the empty football field. She hadn’t really thought much about Valentine's Day—at least, not seriously. It was always just another day filled with pink decorations, love letters crammed into lockers, and desperate confessions in the hallways.

“Yujin, what about you?” Rei nudged her with her elbow. “Got any plans? Or are you gonna keep breaking hearts like usual?”

Yujin scoffed, sitting up straighter. “What do you mean, ‘breaking hearts’? I don’t even do anything.”

Jimin smirked. “Exactly. You exist, and people fall for you. It’s unfair, really.”

Yujin rolled her eyes, but a grin tugged at her lips. “Well, sorry for being effortlessly charming.”

Rei suddenly perked up, eyes glinting with mischief. “Oh! We should make things interesting this year.”

Yujin narrowed her eyes. “Define ‘interesting.’”

Rei leaned in. “How about a little challenge? Since you’re so ‘effortlessly charming,’ let’s see if you can make someone fall for you before Valentine's Day.”

Jimin let out a dramatic gasp. “Wait, wait, wait. That’s actually genius.”

Ryujin chuckled, intrigued. “And who’s the target?”

They thought for a bit, scanning the school grounds for potential candidates. Just as the silence stretched, Rei’s eyes lit up, catching sight of someone walking along the side of the school.

The girl was heading toward the entrance with her friends, her long hair swaying with each step, her laughter ringing faintly in the air. Everything about her was effortless—graceful, untouchable, completely out of reach.

Rei smirked, nudging Yujin. “There. Jang Wonyoung.”

Yujin hesitated.

Wonyoung? Sure, they were friends—kind of. They hung out in the same circles, exchanged playful banter here and there, but making her fall for her? That was a different level of impossible.

Yujin nearly choked on her own breath. “Excuse me?”

Jimin let out an amused hum. “Oh, that’s perfect. ”

Ryujin grinned. “What’s wrong, Yujin? You were confident just a second ago.”

Yujin scoffed, masking the sudden rush of nerves creeping up her spine. “I’m not scared.”

Rei leaned in, her smirk widening. “Then prove it. Get Wonyoung to fall for you by Valentine's Day.”

Yujin exhaled slowly, watching as Wonyoung disappeared into the school building.

This was a bad idea.

But at the same time… it was also the perfect challenge.

She turned back to her friends, her usual cocky grin slipping back into place.

“You’re on.”

Operation: Make Wonyoung Fall in Love With Yujin was officially a go.

The moment Yujin uttered those words, her friends erupted into cheers and laughter.

“Oh, this is gonna be so good,” Jimin grinned, already entertained by the thought of Yujin trying to win over Wonyoung.

Rei leaned back against the bleachers, crossing her arms. “Alright, Yujin. Since you’re so confident, what’s the game plan?”

Yujin blinked. “Game plan?”

Ryujin snorted. “Don’t tell me you’re just gonna wing it.”

“I always wing it,” Yujin shot back, shrugging casually. “That’s what makes me so charming.”

Rei rolled her eyes. “Well, you better make this one count, because Wonyoung’s not just any girl. She’s practically impossible to impress.”

Jimin smirked. “She turns down confessions every other week. What makes you think you’re different?”

Yujin stretched her arms behind her head, letting the question hang in the air for a second.

“Because,” she said smoothly, “I’m An Yujin.”

Ryujin let out a loud laugh, shaking her head. “This is gonna be fun to watch.”

Rei leaned forward, resting her chin in her hands. “Alright, lover girl. You’ve got less than two weeks to make this happen. What’s the first move?”

Yujin paused. Right. The first move.

Her gaze flickered toward the school building, where Wonyoung had just disappeared inside.

She had no idea what she was doing. But if she was going to win this bet, she needed to start now.

Yujin clapped her hands together. “Step one: casual but unforgettable encounters.”

Jimin raised a brow. “Meaning?”

“Meaning,” Yujin smirked, “I need to bump into Wonyoung as much as possible. Make her notice me more than she already does.”

Ryujin chuckled. “And how exactly are you gonna do that?”

Yujin grinned. “Easy. Starting tomorrow, I’m going to be everywhere she is.”

“You’re gonna stalk her?” Rei laughed. 

“Not stalk,” Yujin corrected. “Just… strategically place myself in her daily routine.”

Jimin whistled. “Wow. This is either going to be legendary or embarrassing.”

Yujin shrugged. “That’s the risk I’m willing to take.”

She stood up, slinging her backpack over her shoulder. “Tomorrow’s the beginning of my master plan. Watch and learn, ladies.”

As she walked toward the school, her confidence unwavering, Ryujin, Rei, and Jimin exchanged amused glances.

“This is going to be a disaster,” Ryujin muttered.

Rei grinned. “Exactly why we’re letting it happen.”

—

The next morning, Yujin was ready.

Well, kind of.

She had spent half the night coming up with a plan—one that mostly consisted of casual but unforgettable encounters—which, in reality, just meant running into Wonyoung as much as possible.

The first step? The hallway.

Yujin knew Wonyoung always stopped by her locker before first period. It was the perfect place to make an impression.

She stood by her own locker, a few feet away, casually waiting. Any second now—

And there she was.

Wonyoung walked down the hall, hair perfectly in place, uniform pristine, chatting with a friend. She didn’t even glance Yujin’s way, but that was fine. Yujin would make her notice.

She took a deep breath. Time to execute step one.

With a carefully calculated move, Yujin swung her locker open dramatically—

BANG!

The sound echoed through the hallway, making Wonyoung and half the student body turn to look.

Okay. Maybe too dramatic.

Wonyoung blinked at her, raising an eyebrow. “Uh… you good?”

Yujin straightened, flashing her best, most charming smile. “Oh, hey, Wonyoung. Fancy seeing you here.”

“…We have lockers on the same floor.”

Yujin’s smile faltered for half a second, but she recovered quickly. “Right! Crazy how that works, huh?”

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes slightly, like she was trying to figure out what Yujin’s deal was. But before she could say anything else, her friend called her over, and just like that, she was gone.

Yujin let out a breath, shutting her locker. “Alright. Not my strongest moment, but we move.”

Step one? Questionable success.

But she still had the rest of the day.

Next up: the cafeteria.

At lunch, Yujin scanned the room, spotting Wonyoung at her usual table. The goal? A casual but memorable interaction.

With her tray in hand, Yujin confidently strolled over—only to accidentally (definitely on purpose) trip on absolutely nothing.

Her tray tilted, her drink spilled, and before she could even process what was happening—

Splash. Right onto Wonyoung’s uniform.

The entire cafeteria went silent.

Wonyoung looked down at the mess on her blazer. Then up at Yujin.

Yujin’s soul left her body.

“…I can explain,” Yujin started, laughing nervously.

Wonyoung exhaled slowly, closing her eyes for a moment before opening them again. “An Yujin.”

Oh, she was so dead.

Yujin held up her hands. “Okay. In my defense—”

“Run.”

Yujin didn’t need to be told twice.

She bolted out of the cafeteria, dodging tables and chairs as Wonyoung chased after her, determination in her eyes.

Rei, Jimin, and Ryujin, watching from their seats, burst into laughter.

“This plan is going great,” Ryujin smirked, biting into her sandwich.

Rei shook her head. “This is going terribly. ”

“Which means it’s working.” Jimin grinned. 

Meanwhile, Yujin sprinted down the hallway, laughing as Wonyoung called after her.

Maybe step two wasn’t perfect. But if Wonyoung was chasing her… that meant she was paying attention, right?

And that was definitely progress.

By the time Yujin finally stopped running, she found herself outside by the vending machines, catching her breath. A few seconds later, Wonyoung stormed around the corner, hands on her hips, eyes narrowed.

"An Yujin."

Yujin grinned, leaning casually against the machine. “Hey, Wonnie. You look—”

“Don’t.” Wonyoung held up a hand, cutting her off. “Do you have any idea how hard it is to get soda out of this blazer?”

“Uh…” Yujin scratched the back of her neck. “Really hard?”

Wonyoung scoffed, rolling her eyes. “Unbelievable.”

Yujin clapped her hands together. “Okay, but listen. As an apology, let me make it up to you.”

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow. “Oh? And how exactly are you gonna do that?”

Yujin turned, slipping a few coins into the vending machine. With a practiced ease, she pressed a button, and a drink clattered down. She grabbed it and held it out toward Wonyoung with both hands, eyes shining.

“A peace offering,” she said, like she wasn’t the one who caused the problem in the first place.

Wonyoung stared at the drink. Then at Yujin.

“…This is the same soda you spilled on me.”

Yujin winced. “Okay, fair point. But it’s cold this time?”

Wonyoung exhaled sharply, but Yujin didn’t miss the way her lips twitched, like she was this close to smiling. After a second, she snatched the drink from Yujin’s hand.

“You’re ridiculous,” Wonyoung muttered, opening the can and taking a sip.

Yujin grinned. “But I made you laugh.”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, turning to walk away. “Shut up.”

But as she left, Yujin caught the faintest hint of a smile on her face.

She watched Wonyoung disappear back into the school, a victorious smirk creeping onto her lips.

Step two? Not bad.

Yujin wandered back inside, hands in her pockets, replaying the interaction in her head. Wonyoung hadn’t completely hated it. She had taken the soda, after all. And Yujin was pretty sure she saw a smile. A tiny one. Barely there. But still.

A win was a win.

As she reached her usual table, Ryujin, Rei, and Jimin were already waiting, all three of them looking way too amused.

“So…” Ryujin started, propping her chin on her hand. “How’s the master plan going?”

Jimin smirked. “From what we saw, you’re off to an… interesting start.”

Rei sighed. “I don’t think making her want to kill you is the same as making her fall for you, Yujin.”

Yujin flopped into her seat, grabbing a fry off Ryujin’s tray. “You guys have no vision.”

“Right. Because nearly drowning her in soda was so smooth,” Ryujin deadpanned.

Yujin pointed a fry at her. “She laughed.”

“She rolled her eyes,” Rei corrected.

Jimin shrugged. “Same thing.”

“Exactly.” Yujin leaned back with a smug grin. 

Ryujin shook her head. “You’re delusional.”

“And yet, you’re all still invested.”

Rei sighed dramatically. “Unfortunately, yes.”

Jimin leaned forward, eyes glinting mischievously. “So? What’s next?” Yujin tapped her chin, pretending to think. “Hmm. Good question.”

The truth was… she hadn’t actually planned past today.

But she couldn’t admit that. Not when they were all looking at her like she was an idiot already.

So instead, she grinned and said, “Just wait and see.”

Yujin then remembered the bet—the whole reason she was even doing this in the first place. She furrowed her brows, leaning forward. “Wait. What do I even get if I win?”

Rei tsked, crossing her arms. “Ugh. I was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Yujin narrowed her eyes. “Excuse me?”

Ryujin chuckled. “She means she was hoping you’d get so caught up in this that you’d forget to ask.”

“Wow,” Yujin deadpanned. “The betrayal.”

Jimin smirked, resting her chin on her hand. “You never asked before, so we just… didn’t say anything.”

Yujin groaned. “Unbelievable. Okay, spill. What’s the prize?”

Rei sighed dramatically before finally giving in. “Fine. If you actually make Wonyoung fall for you before Valentine’s Day, you can ask us for anything within reason, and we have to do it.”

Yujin’s eyes sparkled. “Anything?”

“Within reason.”

Yujin leaned back with a satisfied grin. “Alright. Sounds good to me.”

“But if you lose…” Jimin’s smirk widened.

She paused. “Uh. Yeah?”

Rei’s lips curled into a devious smile. “You have to be our personal assistant. For an entire month.”

Yujin’s grin froze. “You’re kidding.”

“Nope,” Ryujin said, looking far too entertained.

Yujin scoffed. “That’s ridiculous. Why would I do that?” Jimin smirked. “Because you agreed to the bet.” Yujin groaned, dragging a hand down her face. “Oh my God.”

Rei grinned. “What’s wrong? Scared?”

Yujin huffed, shaking off her nerves. “Pfft. As if. I got this.”

She definitely did not have this.

—

Yujin had a plan.

Well. Sort of.

After yesterday’s mild disaster, she decided to take a different approach—smooth, subtle, charming. None of that accidental soda explosion nonsense.

So, naturally, she found herself loitering near Wonyoung’s locker before first period, leaning against the wall like she had all the time in the world.

She was aiming for effortlessly cool.

But considering she’d been standing there for almost five minutes, it was starting to feel more like suspiciously weird.

Finally, Wonyoung appeared, chatting with her friends as she walked down the hall. Yujin straightened, waiting for the perfect moment.

Three… two… one—

“Morning, Wonyoung,” Yujin greeted, stepping forward with a lazy smile.

Wonyoung barely glanced at her as she entered the combination on her locker. “Morning.”

Okay. Not the warmest reception, but Yujin could work with that.

She leaned a little closer, peering into Wonyoung’s locker like she had any business being there. “You look nice today.”

Wonyoung paused. Just for a second. Then, she turned to look at Yujin properly, brows raised.

“…What?”

Yujin’s confidence wavered, but she pushed through, forcing an easy grin. “I said you look nice. I mean, you always do, but, you know. Especially today.”

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes. “Did you do something?”

“What? No.” Yujin scoffed, placing a hand on her chest like she was offended. “Can’t I just give you a compliment?”

Wonyoung hummed, unconvinced, but there was something in her expression—curiosity, maybe.

Yujin decided to press her luck.

“I’m just saying,” she continued, tilting her head. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were dressing up just for me.”

That got a reaction. Wonyoung’s lips parted slightly before she scoffed, shutting her locker with a bit more force than necessary.

“In your dreams, An,” she said, slinging her bag over her shoulder.

Yujin smirked. “Every night, princess.”

Wonyoung gave her a flat look, but—there. That was a smile. Barely there, almost hidden, but Yujin saw it.

And that was definitely progress.

She watched as Wonyoung walked off, feeling pretty pleased with herself.

Maybe this wouldn’t be so hard after all.

Yujin grinned to herself, watching as Wonyoung disappeared down the hall. Complimenting her had actually worked—kind of. There was definitely a reaction, even if Wonyoung tried to play it off.

As she turned to head to class, she spotted Rei, Ryujin, and Jimin watching from a distance, smirking like they had just witnessed the most entertaining thing in the world.

Yujin groaned. “Oh my God, were you guys spying on me?”

Jimin shrugged, looking far too smug. “Spying? No. Casually observing? Maybe.”

Ryujin snickered. “Dude, you looked so awkward standing there waiting for her.”

Yujin rolled her eyes but couldn’t help feeling just a little proud. “Hey, it worked, didn’t it? I got a reaction.”

“True,” Jimin admitted. “But it’s only day two. You better step it up if you wanna win this bet.”

Yujin scoffed. “Pfft. Please. I got this.”

Rei raised a brow. “Oh yeah? Then what’s your next move, Romeo?”

Yujin hesitated. “Uh. Well—”

Ryujin laughed. “You don’t have a plan.”

“I do!” Yujin defended quickly. “…Kind of.”

Jimin patted her shoulder. “Good luck with that.”

Yujin rolled her eyes but didn’t waste any time. As soon as her friends walked off, she spun on her heel and set off down the hallway, determined to find Wonyoung again.

She weaved through the crowded hallways, glancing into classrooms, scanning groups of students, until—

There.

Wonyoung was at her usual spot by the windows, chatting with a few of her friends. Sunlight streamed through the glass, casting a glow on her long hair, and for a second, Yujin almost forgot what she was supposed to be doing.

Then she remembered: Step three. Whatever that is.

Taking a deep breath, she casually strolled over, hands stuffed into her pockets. Cool. Effortless. That’s what she was going for.

“Hey, Wonyoung.”

Wonyoung turned, blinking at her in surprise. “You again?”

Yujin smirked. “Miss me already?”

Wonyoung scoffed, crossing her arms. “Not in the slightest.”

“Aw, don’t lie.” Yujin leaned against the window frame, glancing at the books Wonyoung was holding. Perfect opportunity.

“You need help carrying those?” she asked smoothly.

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow. “What?”

“Your books,” Yujin said, nodding toward them. “They look heavy. Let me carry them for you.”

Wonyoung stared at her for a moment, then—she laughed.

A light, amused laugh, like Yujin had just told the funniest joke in the world.

“Yujin, I’ve been carrying my own books just fine for years,” Wonyoung said, shaking her head. “Why are you suddenly acting like a gentleman?”

Yujin shrugged, trying to play it off. “Maybe I’ve just decided to be extra nice to you.”

Wonyoung hummed, giving her a skeptical look. “Right. And this has nothing to do with whatever scheme you and your friends are up to?”

Yujin froze.

Was she that obvious?

Wonyoung tilted her head, watching her reaction. “You’re being weird. Suspiciously weird.”

Yujin quickly forced a grin. “What? Nooo. This is just me. Being a kind and considerate classmate.”

“Uh-huh,” Wonyoung said, unconvinced.

Yujin panicked. “Okay, but really, let me carry those. Think of it as, uh… a favor.”

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes. “A favor for what?”

“…For existing?”

Wonyoung burst out laughing.

Yujin felt like she had just won the lottery.

After a moment, Wonyoung shook her head, a small smile still playing on her lips. “You’re such an idiot.”

Yujin grinned. “But a charming idiot?”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, but—there. That little smile.

“Fine,” Wonyoung sighed, handing over her books. “You can carry them. But if you drop them, I’ll make you regret it.”

Yujin took the books with ease, slinging them under one arm. “Please. These are nothing.”

It was only then that she heard the soft giggles coming from behind Wonyoung.

Oh. Right. Wonyoung’s friends were still there.

She had been so focused on her mission—on Wonyoung—that she completely forgot they had an audience.

Danielle leaned in toward Jiwon, whispering not-so-subtly, “Oh my God, is this happening right now?”

Jiwon barely held back her laughter. “This is so much better than I expected.”

Sunghoon crossed his arms, smirking. “I knew something was up when Yujin practically sprinted over.”

“I don’t know whether to be entertained or concerned.” Gaeul just sighed, shaking her head.

Wonyoung shot them all a glare. “You guys are embarrassing.”

Danielle grinned. “We’re embarrassing? You’re the one letting Yujin carry your books like she’s your knight in shining armor.”

Yujin took that as her cue to keep going. She smirked, shifting the books under one arm dramatically. “Well, I am a knight. And Wonyoung is a princess, after all.”

Wonyoung shot her a warning look. “Don’t start.”

Yujin grinned, completely unfazed. “Why not? It suits you. Beautiful, elegant, always getting attention everywhere you go…” She leaned in just slightly, lowering her voice. “You sure you’re not secretly royalty?”

Wonyoung’s expression didn’t falter—but the slight twitch at the corner of her lips did not go unnoticed. Again.

“Oh my God.” Danielle covered her mouth.

Gaeul let out a dramatic sigh. “I can’t believe I’m witnessing this in real time.”

Wonyoung let out a very deep sigh. “Can we not do this right now?”

Yujin only grinned wider. “Why? Are you flustered, princess?”

“I will take my books back and hit you with them.”

Yujin laughed, holding them away. “Violence? That’s not very princess-like.”

Wonyoung groaned, turning on her heel. “I’m leaving.”

Yujin quickly fell into step beside her. “Leaving? No, no. You’re gracefully walking away while I escort you like the gentleman I am.”

Jiwon whispered to Gaeul, “Wonyoung’s ears are pink.”

“She’s doomed.”

Wonyoung muttered something under her breath that sounded a lot like “this is the worst day of my life,” but Yujin just grinned.

Because despite Wonyoung’s grumbling, despite the eye rolls and sighs—her ears were pink.

And that? That was progress.

Yujin grinned, standing up to walk alongside Wonyoung with her usual ease, completely unfazed by the teasing whispers behind them. Wonyoung, on the other hand, was visibly trying very hard to ignore her friends.

“You know,” Yujin said casually, adjusting the books under her arm, “if you keep blushing like that, people are gonna start thinking you actually like me.”

Wonyoung shot her a glare, but the effect was ruined by the way she instinctively raised a hand to her ear—only to realize what she was doing and immediately drop it.

“I’m not blushing,” she huffed, walking faster.

“Oh, sure.” Yujin easily matched her pace. “It’s just… really warm today, right?”

“It’s winter.”

“Exactly. So strange how the cold air makes your ears all pink like that.”

Wonyoung groaned. “I hate you.”

Behind them, Danielle nearly choked on a laugh. “She so doesn’t.”

Jiwon leaned on Sunghoon’s shoulder, barely keeping it together. “Yujin’s literally speedrunning a romance drama right now.”

“And Wonyoung’s totally playing into it.”

Gaeul hummed, observing the scene with amusement. “I give it a week before she starts expecting Yujin to do this without the teasing.”

Jiwon gasped. “Oh my God, you think she’s gonna get used to it?”

Danielle clutched her chest dramatically. “Tragic. This is how it starts.”

Meanwhile, Yujin and Wonyoung had reached the classroom.

“Alright, princess.” Yujin placed the books down on Wonyoung’s desk, stepping back with a flourishing bow. “Your noble knight has fulfilled her duty.”

Wonyoung crossed her arms. “Are you gonna do this every time you see me?”

Yujin pretended to think. “Mmm. Probably.”

Before Wonyoung could say anything else, Yujin flashed her a grin and ruffled her hair, earning a surprised noise from the taller girl.

Yujin leaned in slightly, lowering her voice just enough for only Wonyoung to hear.

“You’re cute when you’re flustered, you know that?” she murmured, her tone smooth—too smooth.

And then, just as Wonyoung’s brain short-circuited, Yujin winked before stepping back with a satisfied smirk.

Danielle shrieked. “Did she just—”

“OH MY GOD, SHE DID.” Jiwon grabbed Sunghoon’s arm, shaking him.

Sunghoon was wheezing.

Gaeul clapped her hands together like she was watching the season finale of her favorite drama. “This is actually insane.”

Wonyoung, meanwhile, was frozen in place. Completely still.

It took a full three seconds before she finally blinked. And then, without a single word, she turned bright red and whipped around to sit at her desk, burying her face in her arms.

Danielle gasped dramatically, clutching her chest. “We’ve lost her.”

“She fought hard.” Jiwon wiped away a fake tear.

Sunghoon was still laughing.

Meanwhile, Yujin was already halfway down the hallway, practically radiating confidence as she rejoined her own friends.

Rei looked up, raising an eyebrow. “Judging by your face, I’m guessing it went well?”

“Better than well.” Yujin swung an arm around her shoulder, grinning.

Jimin snorted. “You’re way too smug about this.”

“Listen,” Yujin said, stopping in her tracks. She turned to them, eyes gleaming. “That was textbook flirting. I deserve an award.”

Rei tsked, amused. “Or maybe we should start preparing one for Wonyoung. She’s the one suffering here.”

Jimin crossed her arms. “You know, at this rate, I think you might actually win this bet.”

Yujin smirked. “Of course I will.”

But as she walked ahead, she felt something strange tug at her chest.

She ignored it.

For now.

—

The next day, Yujin had one goal: to spend more time with Wonyoung.

And if Wonyoung was always in the library, then that’s where she’d be too.

So, for the first time in forever, Yujin actually stepped into the school library, hands shoved into her pockets as she scanned the room. It was quiet, as expected—students hunched over books, flipping through pages, lost in their own worlds. And then, near the window, exactly where Rei had said she’d be, sat Jang Wonyoung.

Her long hair was pulled over one shoulder, eyes focused on her textbook as she absentmindedly twirled a pen in her fingers. Completely lost in whatever she was studying.

Yujin smirked. Found you.

Without hesitation, she made her way over, pulling out the chair across from Wonyoung and plopping down like she belonged there.

Wonyoung blinked. Then blinked again.

She lowered her pen, looking at Yujin like she had just materialized out of thin air. “…What are you doing here?”

Yujin didn’t answer. She just rested her chin on her palm and grinned.

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes. “No, seriously. You? In a library?”

Still, no answer. Just the same, lazy grin.

Wonyoung scoffed, shaking her head. “You’re not even holding a book. Did you get lost on the way to the cafeteria or something?”

Yujin hummed, tilting her head like she was thinking. Then, finally, she said, “Nah. Just felt like sitting here.”

Wonyoung stared at her for a long moment, like she was trying to figure out if this was some elaborate prank.

“…Right.” She huffed, turning back to her textbook. “Do whatever you want, then.”

And so, Yujin did.

She stayed put, not moving, not saying a word—just sitting there like she totally belonged in Wonyoung’s quiet little world.

It was amusing, watching Wonyoung attempt to ignore her.

At first, she seemed fine, flipping through her textbook like usual. But after a few minutes, her pen taps became sharper, the way she flipped pages became snappier, and Yujin could practically see the way she was resisting the urge to look up again.

Another five minutes passed before Wonyoung finally snapped her book shut.

“Okay.” She placed her hands flat on the table, eyes narrowed. “Seriously. What’s your deal?”

Yujin raised a brow. “What do you mean?”

“This!” Wonyoung gestured vaguely between them. “You, sitting here like you suddenly care about studying. Since when do you even like the library?”

Yujin shrugged. “Since now.”

Wonyoung squinted at her, clearly not convinced.

Yujin, still grinning, leaned forward slightly, resting her arms on the table. “What?” she asked innocently.

“There’s no way you’re here just because you ‘felt like it,’” Wonyoung said, voice laced with suspicion. “So, what is it? You lost a bet? Got dared? Need me to tutor you?”

Yujin chuckled, shaking her head. “None of the above.”

“Then why?” Wonyoung pressed, crossing her arms.

Yujin tilted her head as if she were considering her answer. Then, with a smirk, she said, “Because you’re here.”

Silence.

Wonyoung blinked.

“…What?”

Yujin leaned back in her chair, arms folded behind her head like she hadn’t just dropped that line so effortlessly. “I like the library because you like the library,” she repeated as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Wonyoung’s lips parted slightly, her brain visibly buffering. Then, her eyes narrowed. “Are you messing with me?”

Yujin gasped dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. “Why do you always assume the worst of me?”

“Because you’re you,” Wonyoung deadpanned.

Fair.

But Yujin just chuckled, leaning forward again, this time resting her chin on her hand. “I’m serious, though. Maybe I just wanted to spend time with you.”

A pause.

Then, Wonyoung scoffed, looking back down at her textbook. “You’re ridiculous.”

“Ridiculously charming?”

“No.”

Yujin bit back a laugh. “You sure?”

“Yes.”

But Wonyoung was flipping through her textbook with a little too much focus, ears just the tiniest bit red.

She took a deep breath and went back to reading, acting as if Yujin wasn’t sitting right there, staring at her with that insufferable grin. She turned a page, picked up her pen, and started writing notes in neat, precise handwriting.

For a moment, it was peaceful.

Then, something nudged her foot.

Wonyoung froze, her pen stopping mid-word.

She glanced up cautiously, but Yujin was just sitting there, looking way too pleased with herself, her chin resting on her palm like she was perfectly innocent.

Another nudge.

Wonyoung’s brows furrowed. “Are you—”

Before she could finish, Yujin tapped her foot against hers again, slow and deliberate.

Wonyoung immediately pulled her foot back, eyes narrowing. “Stop that.”

“Stop what?” Yujin asked, all wide-eyed and innocent.

Wonyoung shot her a glare before looking back at her notes, trying to refocus.

But then—tap.

She whipped her head up. “An Yujin.”

“Yes, Wonyoungie?” Yujin’s grin stretched wider, her voice sickeningly sweet.

Wonyoung inhaled sharply, willing herself to stay calm. “Why are you like this? ”

Yujin hummed, pretending to think. “Like what?”

“Annoying.”

“Charming,” Yujin corrected. Then, as if to prove her point, she tapped Wonyoung’s foot again—playful, teasing.

Wonyoung glared at her.

This time, instead of pulling away, Wonyoung lifted her foot and lightly kicked Yujin’s shin under the table. Not hard—just enough to make her stop.

Yujin gasped, dramatically clutching her leg. “Ow! Abuse! I’m being attacked in a public space—”

“Shut up,” Wonyoung hissed, looking around to make sure no one was staring.

Yujin pouted, rubbing her shin as if she were actually hurt. “Wow. All this just because I wanted to play a little?”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes and turned back to her book. “Some of us actually study in the library, you know.”

Yujin huffed, leaning back in her chair. “Fine, fine. I’ll be quiet.”

Wonyoung didn’t respond, already back to scribbling notes in neat, perfect handwriting.

For a while, Yujin actually let her study. She stayed still, hands folded on the table, doing absolutely nothing.

But then, without really meaning to, her eyes drifted back to Wonyoung.

She always knew Wonyoung was pretty— everyone knew that. But seeing her up close like this, under the soft glow of the library lights, with her hair tucked behind her ear and her lips slightly pursed in concentration—Yujin was starting to realize that pretty was an understatement.

She noticed the way Wonyoung’s lashes cast the faintest shadows on her cheeks, the way her fingers twirled her pen absentmindedly as she read, the way she would occasionally bite her lip when she was deep in thought.

And wow.

Yujin had been around Wonyoung plenty of times before, but never like this. Never just the two of them, sitting so close, with no distractions, no loud group of friends around them. Just Wonyoung, quietly existing, and Yujin, trying not to get completely distracted by her.

She was so lost in her thoughts, so caught up in looking, that she didn’t even realize Wonyoung had stopped writing.

Didn’t realize Wonyoung was now looking right back at her.

“…Yujin.”

Yujin blinked.

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow. “You’re staring.”

Yujin’s mouth opened. Closed. Opened again. “I—”

Wonyoung tilted her head slightly, lips twitching like she was trying not to smile. “Something on my face?”

Yujin immediately shook her head. “No! I just—” She floundered for an excuse, anything that didn’t sound like Yeah, I was staring because you’re literally breathtaking and I forgot how to function for a second.

Wonyoung just kept watching her, waiting.

Yujin cleared her throat, forcing a smirk onto her face. “I was just thinking about how cute you look when you’re focused.”

Wonyoung blinked. Once. Twice.

Then, she let out a scoff, shaking her head. “That’s the best you’ve got?”

Yujin leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. “It’s not my best,” she admitted, her voice dropping just slightly. “But it is true.”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, but the way she quickly turned back to her book—a little too quickly—didn’t go unnoticed.

Yujin grinned. “There it is again. You’re blushing.”

“I am not,” Wonyoung shot back, keeping her eyes trained on the page in front of her.

“You totally are.”

“Shut up, Yujin.”

Yujin grinned, tapping her fingers against the table. “If you say so.”

For a while, Wonyoung actually tried to focus on her work, ignoring the way Yujin was very much still watching her.

Yujin, on the other hand, was having way too much fun.

She let out a small sigh and rested her head on her arms, settling into the table. Without even realizing it, her lips curled into a soft smile as she watched Wonyoung scribble something down in her notebook.

Everyone knew Wonyoung was pretty—but watching her like this, brows slightly furrowed in concentration, lips pursed in thought as she tapped the end of her pen against the page… It was something else entirely.

She must’ve been staring too long because Wonyoung suddenly looked up, eyes sharp with suspicion. “What?”

Yujin blinked. “Huh?”

“You’re staring at me, again.”

Yujin straightened up slightly, rubbing the back of her neck. “Oh. Was I?”

Wonyoung scoffed. “You were,” she muttered before turning back to her notes, though her ears were noticeably pink.

Yujin grinned, tilting her head as she rested it back on her arms. “Maybe I just like looking at you.”

For a split second, Yujin thought she had really gotten to her, but then Wonyoung let out a small huff, shaking her head. “You really don’t give up, do you?”

“Nope.” Yujin popped the “p” playfully. “Not when I’ve got such a good view.”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes but didn’t make any move to leave. Yujin figured that was as good of a sign as any.

—

Yujin walked through the cafeteria, scanning the options in front of her. She wasn’t particularly craving anything, just scoping out what seemed decent today.

Without much thought, her hand reached out and grabbed a carton of strawberry milk.

She paused, staring at it for a second.

Why did she grab this? She never really drank strawberry milk. It wasn’t her favorite.

But she knew it was someone else’s favorite.

Wonyoung.

She always saw Wonyoung getting it, practically every day. And on the rare occasion when it wasn’t available, Yujin had caught the younger girl with the tiniest pout on her lips—a sight that she thought was ridiculously adorable.

Yujin blinked, then shook her head with a small chuckle.

She grabbed the rest of her food and sat with her friends, eating without much thought. By the time she was finished, she heard a familiar round of laughter near the cafeteria entrance.

Looking up, she spotted Wonyoung walking in with her friends—Danielle, Jiwon, Sunghoon, and Gaeul. They made their way toward a table, chatting animatedly.

Without really thinking, Yujin stood up, strawberry milk carton in hand. She made her way over, casually placing it down in front of Wonyoung.

Wonyoung blinked at the carton, then up at Yujin. “What’s this?”

Yujin stuffed her hands into her pockets, grinning. “You always get one, right? Thought I’d save you the trouble.”

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes slightly, but there was a flicker of something in them—something almost amused. “…And what do you want in return?”

Yujin smirked, leaning slightly on the table. “Maybe just a thank you.”

Wonyoung hummed, picking up the carton and inspecting it like she was debating whether to accept it. Then, after a moment, she met Yujin’s eyes.

“Thank you,” she said, tilting her head slightly, an unreadable expression on her face.

Yujin should’ve just left it at that, should’ve just walked away like it was no big deal.

But Wonyoung looked really cute at that moment—her long lashes fluttering slightly as she inspected the carton, her lips just barely curving at the edges. And for some reason, it made Yujin feel weirdly flustered.

She quickly masked it, keeping her usual confident grin. “No problem,” she said smoothly, stuffing her hands back into her pockets. “Hope you like it.”

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow as if silently questioning her. “It’s just strawberry milk, Yujin.”

Yujin chuckled, rocking back on her heels. “Yeah, but still. Gotta make sure it meets your high standards.”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, but there was something softer in the way she did it—like she wasn’t as annoyed as she wanted to seem. Instead of saying anything, she just poked the straw into the carton and took a sip, her lips pursing slightly around it.

Yujin definitely didn’t stare.

Or at least, she told herself she didn’t.

Before she could embarrass herself any further, she took a step back. “Alright, enjoy. See you around, princess.”

She turned on her heel and walked off, mentally patting herself on the back for staying cool.

She plopped back down in her seat, grabbing her water bottle like nothing had happened.

But the second she did, Jimin was already smirking at her. “You’re so down bad.”

Yujin choked on her water. “What? ”

Rei snickered, propping her chin on her hand. “You literally bought her favorite drink without thinking and then called her princess like it was the most natural thing in the world.”

Ryujin nodded, looking way too amused. “Yeah, man. You’re so obvious.”

Yujin scoffed, rolling her eyes. “Okay, first of all, I was just being nice and doing my part of the bet. It’s not that deep.”

Jimin raised an eyebrow. “Oh, really? So if she walked in here right now with some other girl and held her hand, you’d be totally fine with that?”

Yujin opened her mouth, then closed it.

For some reason, the thought of Wonyoung with someone else sent the tiniest spark of irritation through her chest.

But that didn’t mean anything. Right?

She shook her head, scoffing. “I don’t like her like that.”

Rei leaned in, smirking. “Oh, so you don’t think she’s cute?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“So you do think she’s cute?”

Yujin groaned. “Of course I think she’s cute! She’s Jang Wonyoung. Literally everyone thinks she’s cute.”

Jimin and Ryujin exchanged a look. “Uh-huh.”

Yujin grabbed a fry off Jimin’s tray and shoved it in her mouth, pretending to be unbothered.

She didn’t have a crush on Wonyoung. She was just playing the game, that’s all.

Right?

Across the cafeteria, Wonyoung twirled the straw in her strawberry milk, gaze flickering toward Yujin’s table just for a second before she turned back to her friends.

Wonyoung absentmindedly swirled the straw in her strawberry milk, staring at the drink like it held the answers to the universe.

“So…” Danielle started, dragging out the word. “Are you really gonna pretend Yujin doesn’t like you?”

Jiwon leaned in, grinning. “Because it’s so obvious.”

Sunghoon smirked. “She literally bought your favorite drink without you even asking. That’s, like, peak girlfriend behavior.”

Gaeul nodded. “She follows you around everywhere lately. Even went to the library for you. That’s dedication.”

“She was probably just there to annoy me.” Wonyoung scoffed, rolling her eyes.

“Right, because she totally wakes up and thinks, ‘You know what? Let me dedicate my entire free time to Jang Wonyoung,’” Jiwon teased.

Danielle giggled. “You should just give her a chance.”

Wonyoung blinked. “Give her a chance?”

“Yeah,” Gaeul said. “Like, if she actually confessed, would you consider it?”

Wonyoung hesitated, sipping her drink to stall.

Jimin and the others were probably just messing with Yujin. It was probably just some dumb joke, the way she was suddenly going out of her way to talk to her, tease her, bring her things—

It was a joke. Right?

Jiwon nudged her. “So? Do you even think she’s attractive?”

Wonyoung nearly choked on her drink. “Obviously.” She shot Jiwon a look, like she had just asked the dumbest question ever. “Anyone with eyes can see that Yujin’s attractive.”

Danielle wiggled her eyebrows. “Ohhh?”

“Ohhh?” Jiwon mimicked, grinning.

Sunghoon snorted. “So you do think she’s hot.”

“That’s not what I said,” Wonyoung muttered, suddenly feeling warm.

Gaeul smirked. “Mmm. Sure.”

Wonyoung took another sip of her strawberry milk, ignoring the way her friends kept giggling like they knew something she didn’t.

She tapped her fingers against the carton, her mind drifting despite the chatter around her.

Give Yujin a chance?

She hadn’t seriously thought about it before. Yujin was just… Yujin. Playful, annoyingly confident, always surrounded by people. They had their moments—bickering, teasing, but nothing that ever made Wonyoung think Oh, maybe I should actually like her back.

But lately…

Lately, Yujin had been around a lot. Showing up at the library, playfully bumping her foot under the table, staring at her with that stupid soft smile—buying her strawberry milk just because. It wasn’t just teasing anymore, was it?

Wonyoung exhaled, running a hand through her hair.

Maybe she should just—see.

Let her in. Just a little.

Not make it obvious, but… if Yujin really wanted to chase her, maybe Wonyoung could stop running so fast.

She hid a small smile behind her drink.

Just a little.

Chapter Text

It had been a few days since that strawberry milk incident, and Wonyoung was starting to notice things—small things, but things nonetheless.

Yujin wasn’t just teasing her anymore.

Sure, she still had her moments of being an absolute menace, but lately, she was also… sweet. Like, overly sweet. And Wonyoung was starting to react to it in ways she wasn’t used to.

Like when Yujin had casually fixed the strap of her bag this morning, a simple “It was slipping” leaving her lips. Wonyoung had felt her ears burn.

Or when Yujin had held the door open for her between classes—not in the lazy, ‘I just happened to be here’ way, but standing there, waiting, even sending her a small smile as she passed.

And, okay, maybe the worst—or best—was when Yujin had remembered that she liked her coffee with just a little bit of sugar, and had wordlessly slid her cup across the table before she could even get up to fix it.

Wonyoung had nearly choked.

She didn’t hate it. That was the problem.

She just wasn’t sure how to act anymore. Should she tease back? Should she ignore it? Should she—ugh.

Sitting at her desk, Wonyoung rested her chin in her hand, staring at the empty corner of her notebook.

Yujin was up to something. That much was clear.

And for the first time, Wonyoung wasn’t entirely sure if she wanted to stop her.

That was what bothered her the most.

At first, Yujin’s sudden attentiveness had been easy to brush off as just another one of her antics. The teasing, the flirting—it was all in good fun, right? But now… now it felt different.

Now, Wonyoung found herself noticing things about Yujin she hadn’t before.

Like how her eyes softened when she looked at her. How her voice always had this warm lilt when she said her name. How she never seemed to hesitate when it came to doing small things for her—offering her a drink, carrying her books, holding open doors like it was second nature.

And maybe the worst part? Wonyoung was starting to like it.

She tapped her pen against the desk, letting out a small sigh.

It was stupid. It was so stupid.

She shouldn’t be thinking about this. About her. About the way Yujin had flashed her a lazy grin in the hallway today, a “Hey, princess,” falling so easily from her lips that Wonyoung had nearly tripped over her own feet.

She had rolled her eyes, obviously. Had scoffed and told her to stop calling her that.

But her heart had still stuttered in her chest all the same.

And now, here she was, sitting in her room, twirling her pen between her fingers and staring off into space like some kind of lovesick fool.

No. No, this was ridiculous.

Yujin was just being Yujin. She was always like this.

…Right?

Maybe—just maybe—she should stop fighting it.

—

Yujin walks into the cafeteria, her usual goofy grin spread across her face. The chatter of students fills the air, and she’s looking for her usual gang, but her eyes catch someone else—Wonyoung.

There she is, sitting at a table alone, her books scattered in front of her, her focus on the pages. She’s so engrossed in what she's doing, yet Yujin can’t help but smile at the sight.

Yujin approaches the table casually, sliding into the seat across from her. “Hey, princess,” she says, her voice soft but teasing as always.

Wonyoung doesn’t immediately respond with her usual sharp comeback. Instead, she just looks up from her book, offering a soft, almost shy smile. It’s a smile Yujin’s seen before, but now it feels... different. Like she’s seeing a side of Wonyoung that she hasn't fully understood until now.

“Hey,” Wonyoung replies, her voice gentle. It’s not cold, not distant—just... calm. She keeps her gaze on Yujin for a moment longer than usual, and Yujin wonders if there’s something there she’s missing.

“So, what’s up?” Yujin asks, leaning in a little as if she were about to share some big secret.

Wonyoung just shakes her head slightly, still smiling, not offering much else beyond her quiet presence. “Just studying,” she says, her voice barely above a whisper, but not in a way that feels off-putting. It's... comfortable. She seems content with the silence between them, something that used to be rare.

Yujin notices the way Wonyoung isn't pushing her away like before, isn't giving her one of those sarcastic remarks she’s so used to. Instead, she just lets Yujin fill the space, letting her be herself. Her usual teasing moments, the ones where she would interrupt Yujin’s rambling with a quick, sharp response, seem to have softened into a smile that seems to say, I'm fine with this. With you, just like this.

It’s almost like the tension between them has melted away, and what’s left is just... the two of them.

"You're being unusually quiet today, you know?" Yujin teases softly, her eyes searching Wonyoung's for some kind of retort, but there’s none to be found. Instead, Wonyoung just shrugs with a slight smile, as if she doesn’t mind at all.

"I don’t always have to talk," Wonyoung says, her voice a bit playful but not snarky, just light. It feels like the most honest answer, and somehow that makes Yujin's heart flutter. There’s something about the way Wonyoung says it, the way she’s not dismissing Yujin but letting her exist, letting her be.

Yujin leans back, crossing her arms, still smiling, though her mind races with something new. She notices the little details—how Wonyoung isn’t pulling away, how she’s not rolling her eyes or avoiding her gaze, how she’s just... there. Soft, calm, and content.

"Okay, but you are gonna tell me if something's wrong, right?" Yujin asks, her tone shifting slightly, still light but with a hint of genuine care.

It’s strange for her to feel this way, but it’s hard not to, not when Wonyoung’s been so... different. Not in a bad way, just... quieter, softer. And it’s making Yujin realize how much she appreciates that softness, that calmness.

Wonyoung’s eyes meet hers again, the same gentle smile playing on her lips. She doesn't answer right away, but the look in her eyes says enough. It’s a reassurance, an understanding between them that goes unsaid.

“I will,” Wonyoung replies softly. And somehow, that feels like a promise.

Yujin stands up, stretching her arms with a slight yawn. "Be right back," she says, offering Wonyoung a playful wink before heading toward the bathroom.

She’s not entirely sure what it is—maybe it’s the soft shift in Wonyoung’s energy, the way she’s letting Yujin be around her without any resistance. But something about it makes Yujin feel... lighter, like she’s walking on air.

When she returns to the table a few minutes later, she notices Wonyoung hasn’t moved much, still flipping through her textbook with that serene smile on her face. There’s something oddly comforting about how steady Wonyoung seems, even when the rest of the world feels chaotic.

Yujin hesitates for a moment, but then, without thinking too much about it, she decides to sit beside Wonyoung instead of across from her. She slides into the seat next to her, the slight movement of her body brushing against Wonyoung’s. It’s small, but for some reason, it feels like a big shift.

Wonyoung doesn’t flinch or pull away. She simply looks up, offering Yujin a soft, curious glance, her eyes warm.

“You’re sitting next to me?” she asks, her voice gentle, though there’s a quiet amusement in her tone.

Yujin grins, her heart beating a little faster than usual. “Yeah, I figured it might be more fun this way. Besides, I like being closer to you.”

She says it so casually, like it’s no big deal, but she feels the heat of her words linger in the air between them. She watches as Wonyoung’s lips curl up into a small smile, and it makes something in Yujin’s chest flutter.

“Well,” Wonyoung says after a beat, turning her attention back to her textbook but not entirely letting go of the connection between them, “I guess it’s okay.”

Yujin leans a little closer, the playful energy she carries around her shifting into something softer. “Good. I’m glad.” She doesn’t need Wonyoung to give her anything more than that quiet acceptance. It feels enough, just being here together like this.

The space between them is minimal now, just enough for their shoulders to brush occasionally as Yujin shifts, fidgeting with her own things, but it’s not uncomfortable. In fact, it feels right. There’s no rush, no tension, just a simple comfort in the small moments.

Yujin notices the way Wonyoung’s fingers tap lightly on the page of her book, not with impatience, but with ease. Wonyoung seems almost content with the quiet, with the lack of chatter between them. And yet, Yujin finds herself wanting to fill the space with her own words, her own little observations.

She leans in slightly, her voice breaking the stillness between them. “You know... usually, you’ve got something to tease me about.”

Wonyoung glances up from her book, her expression still soft but a little amused. She doesn’t respond right away, just letting Yujin’s words hang in the air. Her lips curl into a faint, quiet smile that’s somehow more comforting than anything sharp or sarcastic.

Without really thinking, she lets herself push her luck a little.

She shifts closer, just slightly, and then, with a soft smile tugging at her lips, she rests her chin gently on Wonyoung’s shoulder. The sudden closeness makes her heart beat just a bit faster, but she doesn’t pull away. Instead, she breathes in the warmth of Wonyoung’s presence, feeling her steady pulse of calm.

"How’s your morning been?" Yujin asks softly, the words slipping out with the easy warmth of someone who’s spent too many mornings with Wonyoung to feel shy anymore.

She doesn’t wait for Wonyoung to pull away or ask her what she’s doing. Instead, she keeps her voice light, almost playful, as if it’s no big deal that her chin is resting on Wonyoung’s shoulder, so close she can feel the soft fabric of Wonyoung’s shirt against her skin.

Wonyoung’s breath catches slightly, but it’s not a sign of discomfort. It’s more like a gentle shift, a tiny pause in the otherwise calm rhythm of their space together. She doesn’t flinch, doesn’t push Yujin away. 

Instead, there’s a soft sigh from her as she closes her book, marking her place with a finger. She let the stillness hang between them for a moment, like the question wasn’t really about the morning at all.

"It’s been okay," Wonyoung answers, her voice still gentle, but this time with a trace of something more, something subtle. She’s not pulling away, not saying anything about Yujin’s unexpected closeness. She simply seems to accept it, letting the quiet linger, as though this is normal, as though it’s okay to share the space this way.

Yujin’s heart skips a beat, and she decides to push her luck even further. 

A soft laugh escapes her lips as she leans in a little closer, her hands shifting from her side to gently wrap around Wonyoung’s waist. She hugs her lightly, more for the comfort of it than anything else, but it feels like something more—something new.

Wonyoung goes still for a moment, like the unexpectedness of the hug has caught her off guard. Yujin can feel her body shift under her arms, and her breath catches slightly as if unsure what to make of it. But she doesn’t pull away. She doesn’t break the hug. Instead, Yujin feels a small shift from Wonyoung—just a soft exhale, like a breath she’d been holding in for a while.

Yujin smiles into the soft fabric of Wonyoung’s shirt, her fingers lightly tracing the curve of her waist, her heart beating a little faster than usual. The warmth of the moment sinks in, and Yujin’s voice is almost a whisper when she speaks.

“Is this okay?” she asks, the teasing edge in her tone soft and gentle, as if asking permission in the most natural way.

She doesn’t immediately answer. She’s quiet for a moment, and Yujin can feel the shift in her—her back straightening just a little, a soft warmth spreading through the space between them. It’s almost as if Wonyoung is choosing to let the silence stretch, to let herself be held, to just... be.

Finally, after a few heartbeats that feel like a little eternity, Wonyoung’s voice breaks the quiet, soft but steady. “Yeah,” she says, her words just above a whisper, but somehow they carry more weight than anything louder could. “It’s okay.”

Yujin feels a quiet warmth blossom in her chest, the words sinking in like a promise—simple, but so much more than just that. Wonyoung is letting her in, and Yujin can’t help but hold her a little tighter, just for a second longer. It’s not about rushing. It’s not about pushing for anything. It’s just about this moment, this feeling of being close, of being comfortable.

And for once, the silence doesn’t feel empty.

After an hour of studying, Wonyoung was finally finished.

Wonyoung closes her book with a soft thud, stretching her arms above her head as she lets out a quiet sigh. "I'm done," she says, turning to Yujin.

Yujin, who had been lounging beside her the entire time, looks up immediately. Her face lights up in an instant, her dimples making a cute appearance as she beams at Wonyoung. "Really?" she chirps, almost like she’d been waiting for this moment.

Wonyoung can’t help but stare for a second, taking in the way Yujin’s whole expression softens with happiness. It’s not like Yujin had been annoying her the whole time—surprisingly, she’d been good, just doing her own thing while Wonyoung studied. She was there, just present, and somehow, that felt nice.

“Yeah,” Wonyoung nods, slipping her notebook into her bag. “Finally.”

Yujin grins at that, as if she’s been waiting for Wonyoung to say those words. And maybe she has.

When they get up to leave, Wonyoung expects Yujin to trail beside her like usual, maybe tease her about how long she was studying, maybe throw an arm around her shoulder playfully. But instead, Yujin does something different.

Without hesitation, she reaches for Wonyoung’s hand, fingers slipping easily between hers, like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

Wonyoung blinks, looking down at their hands for a split second, but Yujin doesn’t give her time to question it. She just gives Wonyoung’s hand a small squeeze, as if sealing the action with quiet reassurance.

If this had happened yesterday, Wonyoung might have pulled away, might have scoffed and teased Yujin for being clingy. But she doesn’t. Instead, she just lets it happen, lets Yujin be, like she has been all day.

Yujin doesn’t say anything about it either. She just holds her hand, gently swinging their arms a little as they walk. It’s subtle, easy, almost thoughtless. But Wonyoung can feel it—the way Yujin’s touch lingers, the way her presence settles next to her like something warm, something steady.

She exhales softly, glancing up at Yujin, who’s walking with that same bright energy, like she’s exactly where she wants to be.

And maybe, Wonyoung thinks, this is okay too.

As they walk hand in hand toward Wonyoung’s next class, their fingers remain loosely intertwined. Yujin swings their arms slightly, her grip light but sure, as if she’s testing the waters—seeing how much she can get away with.

Wonyoung, despite everything, doesn’t pull away. It should feel strange, how easily they’ve fallen into this, but instead, it’s just… warm.

Then, suddenly, a thought pops into her head. She frowns slightly, glancing up at Yujin. "Wait," she says, realization dawning. "Why were you even in the cafeteria with? Didn’t you have a class last period?”

Yujin barely even looks guilty. In fact, she grins, dimples making another appearance. "Mm, I do."

Wonyoung blinks. "Then—"

"It was too boring," Yujin cuts in smoothly, swinging their hands just a little more. "Being with you is way more entertaining."

The words land too easily, too naturally, and Wonyoung feels the heat creeping up the back of her neck before she can stop it.

Yujin, of course, notices immediately. Her grin turns playful, her voice dipping softer, more teasing. "But wait—how’d you even know I had class last period?" she asks, tilting her head slightly toward Wonyoung, her gaze full of amusement.

Wonyoung’s lips press together, and she looks straight ahead, refusing to meet Yujin’s knowing stare. "We have mutual friends," she mutters, trying to sound casual. "I just… hear things. I know when people have classes."

Yujin lets out a soft chuckle, clearly enjoying this. "Oh?" she hums, nudging Wonyoung’s shoulder lightly. "So you just ‘happen’ to know my schedule, huh?"

Wonyoung’s face burns hotter. "I don’t—"

"Mhmm," Yujin hums, dragging out the sound, her grin only growing.

Wonyoung groans, finally turning to glare at her, but Yujin just looks impossibly fond, her smile never faltering. And worse, she’s still holding her hand, still swinging it slightly as if all of this is completely normal.

"Shut up," Wonyoung grumbles, looking away again.

Yujin blinks, then grins. That was the first snarky thing Wonyoung had said all day. Up until now, she’d just let Yujin be—no complaints, no teasing remarks, just soft smiles and warm glances. But this? This was familiar. This was so Wonyoung.

Yujin chuckles, squeezing Wonyoung’s hand. "You’re so cute," she says, her voice light, teasing, but undeniably fond.

Wonyoung falters mid-step, her fingers twitching in Yujin’s grasp. The tips of her ears turn red almost instantly, and Yujin catches the way her lips part, like she wants to argue but can’t quite find the words fast enough.

Her silence only makes Yujin’s grin widen. "What? No comeback?" she teases, tilting her head toward Wonyoung, their arms brushing with each step.

Wonyoung exhales sharply through her nose, rolling her eyes. "You’re so annoying," she mutters, but it lacks any real bite.

Yujin just laughs, completely unbothered. "And yet, you’re still holding my hand," she singsongs.

Wonyoung huffs, her grip tightening for a brief second before she scoffs. "You’re the one who grabbed it first," she mutters, eyes stubbornly fixed ahead.

Yujin tilts her head, watching her with amusement. "And yet," she repeats, drawing out the words, "you haven’t let go."

Wonyoung exhales sharply through her nose, but Yujin catches the way her lips twitch, like she’s fighting back a smile. She’s flustered. Yujin knows it. And it makes her want to push just a little more.

"You must really like me, huh?" Yujin teases, her voice dipping softer, more playful, as she gives Wonyoung’s hand a small swing between them.

This time, Wonyoung does look at her, eyes narrowed, cheeks dusted pink. "I will literally let go right now," she threatens, but her fingers are still laced with Yujin’s, still warm and steady in her grasp.

Yujin gasps dramatically. "Nooo, don’t do that," she says, fake pouting as she leans in slightly. "I’ll be heartbroken."

Wonyoung groans, looking away again. "You’re so—" She stops herself, exhaling like she’s run out of energy to argue.

But instead of rolling her eyes or scoffing like she normally would, she just smiles to herself, small and almost hidden, before turning her head slightly so Yujin won’t catch it.

Except Yujin does.

"You’re adorable," Yujin says, and Wonyoung can hear the smile in her tone. Soft, fond—like she truly means it.

Wonyoung feels the warmth crawl up her neck, and she grips Yujin’s hand just a little tighter without thinking. She doesn’t say anything, doesn’t give her usual sharp retort. Instead, she just lets the words settle between them, lets them sit there in the space where her usual snark would be.

Yujin continues to swing their hands slightly, testing if Wonyoung will pull away, but she doesn’t.

The older girl hums, clearly pleased. "You really are, you know," she muses, voice light, teasing, but gentle all the same. "I should start calling you my little princess."

That makes Wonyoung whip her head around, her face fully flushed now. "Don’t you dare."

Yujin grins, dimples showing, and leans in just a little closer. "What if I already have it saved as your name in my phone?"

Wonyoung stares at her, jaw slightly slack. "You—" She cuts herself off, visibly flustered. Then, she narrows her eyes. "You don’t."

Yujin wiggles her brows. "Wanna bet?"

Wonyoung opens her mouth, then closes it. She glares at Yujin, but there’s no real heat behind it. Just a mixture of exasperation and something softer, something hesitant but unwilling to admit it.

In the end, she just exhales and shakes her head. "You’re impossible," she mutters, but her fingers are still curled around Yujin’s.

Yujin only laughs, bright and happy, as they continue walking together, hand in hand.

—

The day was finally over.

Yujin leaned against the side of the school building near the front steps, arms folded, her bag slung over one shoulder. She wasn’t really thinking about much—just waiting. She always waited. It wasn’t even something she questioned anymore.

A faint smile tugged at her lips when she saw the familiar figure appear from the hallway, but it didn’t last long.

Right behind Wonyoung, she showed up.

That girl. The one who’d been hovering around lately. The girl Yujin hadn’t bothered to learn the name of—didn’t plan to, either. In her head, she just called her “Mushroom Cut.”

Wonyoung was walking a little too close to her. Or maybe Mushroom Cut was the one too close, touching Wonyoung’s arm as she laughed about something. Then came the hair ruffle—Yujin blinked once, slowly. Mushroom Cut's hand was in Wonyoung’s hair like it belonged there. Like it was fine.

Wonyoung swatted it off, but she was still smiling.

Yujin’s jaw tensed before she even realized it. She looked down for a second, pulling at the strap of her bag, then glanced back up. Mushroom Cut leaned in again, saying something. Whatever it was, it made Wonyoung roll her eyes, but she didn’t move away.

Something crawled under Yujin’s skin. It made her chest feel tight, like her shirt was clinging too much.

It’s nothing.

She looked off to the side, forcing a slight smile like she wasn’t paying attention. Her foot nudged a small pebble near her shoe.

It’s just her classmate. Probably talking about… school stuff. Or… whatever.

She didn’t believe her own thoughts, not even a little.

Mushroom Cut finally waved and started walking the other way. Yujin’s eyes followed her for a second, narrowing. She looked back just in time to see Wonyoung turning toward her.

Wonyoung’s gaze landed on her. “Took you long enough,” Yujin said, voice light, but her smile didn’t quite reach.

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow. “You were waiting?”

“Obviously.”

“You didn’t have to.”

Yujin shrugged. “I wanted to.”

Wonyoung didn’t say anything to that. Just started walking, and Yujin naturally fell into step beside her.

The silence was weird. Not heavy—just different. Usually Yujin was the one talking first, throwing out some dumb comment or teasing Wonyoung about something. But right now, she didn’t have anything. Her hands were shoved in her pockets. She stared ahead like something interesting was waiting in front of them.

Out of the corner of her eye, she could feel Wonyoung glancing her way. The silence stretched longer.

“…Why are you being weird?” Wonyoung finally asked.

“I’m not.” Yujin blinked.

Wonyoung squinted, “You are.”

“No, I’m literally not.”

“You’re quiet. You’re never quiet.”

Yujin scratched the back of her neck and looked down at the sidewalk. “I’m just tired.”

Wonyoung didn’t buy that for a second. “Is it because of that girl?”

“What girl?” Too fast.

Wonyoung gave her a look. Yujin avoided it, eyes on her feet instead.

“She’s just in my class,” Wonyoung muttered.

“I didn’t ask,” Yujin said quickly, before she could stop herself.

Wonyoung let out a small scoff. “Okay.”

They walked a few more steps in silence. Yujin looked over and saw Wonyoung adjusting the strap of her bag. Without thinking, she reached over and tugged it gently from her shoulder.

“I’ll carry it.”

Wonyoung frowned. “You don’t have to.”

“I want to.” Her fingers brushed against Wonyoung’s as she took the bag. She didn’t let herself look at her face.

A beat passed.

“…Sorry,” she mumbled, eyes stuck on the strap. “About earlier. That thing I said—‘I didn’t ask’—that was kind of mean.”

Wonyoung glanced at her, lips parting like she was going to tease her, but her voice came out softer than usual. “It’s okay.”

That made something in Yujin’s chest tighten. She didn’t know if she liked that soft tone. It sounded too gentle. Like Wonyoung was being kind because Yujin was being pathetic.

She kept quiet after that. Just walked.

They didn’t talk for a while. The only sounds were their shoes on the pavement and the occasional rustle of leaves when the wind passed. It wasn’t awkward, but it wasn’t normal either. It felt like something was hanging in the air, waiting.

Yujin shifted the bags on her shoulder, then quietly stepped closer.

Her shoulder brushed against Wonyoung’s. She didn’t pull away.

Another step, and she was walking right next to her. Almost bumping arms. Wonyoung raised a brow at her, but didn’t say anything.

A second passed. Then Yujin bumped her again—on purpose this time.

Wonyoung looked at her like she was being stupid.

“…What?”

Yujin pouted.

“You really weren’t… like, into her or anything?” she asked, voice barely above a whisper.

Wonyoung tilted her head. “…Who?”

“…That girl.” Yujin stared straight ahead.

She saw the way Wonyoung bit back a smile. She hated how smug she looked. Hated that Wonyoung probably knew what this was.

Yujin turned her head away, face burning slightly.

“Don’t hang out with her,” she muttered. “I don’t like her.”

Wonyoung blinked, pretending to be surprised. “Why not?”

“There’s just…” Yujin trailed off, her brows furrowed. “…There’s something about her. I don’t like her. Like, I can’t explain it. Just—don’t.”

Wonyoung gave her a look. She didn’t say anything right away, just smiled that stupid knowing smile and softly chuckled.

“…Okayyy.”

Yujin’s eyes narrowed. “Why are you saying it like that?”

“Like what?” Wonyoung turned away, pretending to study a leaf on the sidewalk. Her voice was all innocent.

Yujin didn’t answer. Her face already felt hot, and she knew if she tried to talk again, she’d sound like a sulky middle schooler. She scuffed her shoe against the ground and walked a little faster, just enough to move ahead of Wonyoung.

For about five steps.

Then she slowed down and waited, letting the younger girl catch up again. Without saying anything, she shifted the bag she was carrying onto one shoulder and bumped Wonyoung with her elbow. Lightly. Then again. And again.

“Stop it,” Wonyoung said, her mouth twitching into a smile.

Yujin pretended not to hear her and leaned a little closer. Her arm brushed against Wonyoung’s, and this time, she didn’t move away.

Wonyoung didn’t either.

They walked like that for a bit. Not quite holding onto each other, but not apart either. The silence wasn’t awkward. Just... slow. Like something settling.

Still, Yujin kept glancing at her from the side. Every few steps. She wasn’t even trying to be subtle anymore.

Yujin wanted to ask the same question again. “Do you really not like Mushroom Cut?” she asked eventually, quiet and pouty.

Wonyoung turned her head slightly. “What?”

Yujin rolled her eyes, like it should’ve been obvious. “That girl. The one with the bangs.”

“Did you just call her Mushroom Cut?” Wonyoung chuckled.

“I never said that.”

Wonyoung deadpanned, “You literally did.”

“Well—she looked like it.” Her voice dropped. “And she was touching you.”

Wonyoung blinked. “So?”

“Sooo, she was like, all over you.”

Wonyoung reasoned, “She was just talking.”

“She ruffled your hair," Yujin said, pouting.

Wonyoung stared at her for a second, then softly smiled. “Are you seriously still thinking about that?”

Yujin didn’t answer. Her lips were pushed into a small pout again, and her gaze dropped to the sidewalk.

“…Don’t hang out with her,” she muttered.

Wonyoung raised a brow, amused. “Why not?”

“I just—there’s something about her I don’t like.”

A pause.

“…Like what?”

Yujin exhaled. She didn’t really know what to say. The words felt stuck in her mouth. Her hand tightened around the strap of the bag. Her voice dropped lower.

“She’s annoying.”

Wonyoung gave her a look. She didn’t say anything right away, just smiled that stupid knowing smile and softly chuckled.

“Hmm, okayy...”

Yujin’s brows pulled together. “Why do you keep saying it like that?”

“Like what?” Wonyoung tilted her head, way too pleased with herself. “Don’t be annoying.” Yujin glared at the air in front of her.

“And you’re acting weird.”

Yujin pouted, “I’m not.”

“You totally are.”

“I’m not,” she insisted, even as she stepped closer and bumped her arm against Wonyoung’s again. Then again. And then, without thinking too hard about it, she tilted her head and let it rest briefly against Wonyoung’s shoulder as they walked.

Just for a second.

Wonyoung didn’t say anything about it.

Instead, she reached out and flicked Yujin’s forehead gently, which made the older girl scowl.

“Hey!”

“You were being a baby.”

“I wasn’t.”

“You were.”

Yujin looked away but was smiling now, just a little. “Whatever.”

Wonyoung laughed softly and glanced at her again, voice teasing but warm. “If you wanted me to yourself, you could’ve just said so.”

“What—?! I didn’t—!” Yujin’s face went hot.

Wonyoung giggled and skipped ahead a little, turning around to walk backwards so she could see Yujin’s expression. “You so did.”

“I didn’t!”

“Okay, okay,” Wonyoung grinned. “Then I’ll just keep hanging out with Mushroom Cut—”

“Yah! I swear—”

Wonyoung burst into laughter and stopped walking, letting Yujin catch up. When she did, she casually reached out and tugged lightly on Yujin’s sleeve.

Yujin slowed.

“What.”

Wonyoung didn’t say anything. Just tugged her sleeve again, this time not letting go. “Let’s get something sweet on the way home,” she said. “You’re cranky.”

“I’m not cranky.”

“You are.”

“I’m not—” but she didn’t finish, because Wonyoung had already started walking again, still tugging her by the sleeve like she was dragging a very sulky puppy behind her.

And Yujin let her.

Grumbling quietly under her breath. Still smiling like an idiot.

—

Yujin lies on her bed, staring at the ceiling, the faint glow of her phone screen casting soft light over her room. She should be asleep, or at least scrolling through her phone, but her mind is stuck on one thing. Or rather, one person.

She wasn’t even looking at her phone.

She should’ve been asleep. Or at least pretending to be. But her mind wouldn’t stop replaying the day. Not the annoying parts. Not Mushroom Cut. Not the dumb green-eyed monster that made her act all weird.

Just Wonyoung.

She exhaled sharply, dragging a hand through her hair, fingers tangling halfway through. God. Why did she look so cute today?

She didn’t mean to think that. It just slipped in. And now it wouldn’t leave.

The way Wonyoung had looked at her with that little smile. The soft “okayy” that held way too much knowing. The way she flicked Yujin’s forehead like it was hers to mess with. How she tugged on her sleeve and walked ahead, dragging her along like they’d done that a thousand times before.

Yujin shut her eyes, but Wonyoung’s face was still there. That stupid pretty smile. Her pink cheeks and ears. The way she giggled when Yujin got flustered. The way she didn't even hesitate to walk close to her, to stay close, like it was the most normal thing in the world.

Yujin bit her lip, a small grin tugging at the corners.

“She was really cute today,” she mumbled into the darkness, voice barely above a whisper. “So cute.”

And then it hits her.

Oh. Oh no.

Her smile falters.

This was supposed to be a bet. A game. A challenge to make Wonyoung fall in love with her first. That was the plan.

But here she is, lying in bed, staring at her ceiling like some lovesick idiot, completely catching herself falling first.

"Shit," she mutters, pressing a hand to her face. This wasn’t supposed to happen.

And yet, when she closes her eyes, all she can see is Wonyoung smiling at her, eyes soft, letting Yujin be close—letting her in.

Yujin groans, flipping onto her stomach and burying her face into her pillow. This is bad. Really bad.

Because suddenly, winning the bet doesn’t feel like the point anymore.

Yujin exhales into her pillow before flipping onto her back again, staring at the ceiling with wide eyes.

Okay. Maybe this isn’t that bad.

It’s just a little crush. Nothing serious. Just a tiny, harmless thing.

She bites her lip, suppressing the giddy feeling bubbling in her chest, but it’s impossible to ignore. Her hands come up to cover her face, muffling the soft, excited squeal that escapes her lips.

She twists onto her side, then onto her stomach again, kicking her feet slightly before turning onto her back once more.

Ugh, she’s that person now. The kind who tosses and turns in bed thinking about their crush.

But really, what’s the worst that could happen? The bet doesn’t change. If anything, it’s just a little push in the right direction. A nudge. Just… an added reason to keep doing what she’s doing.

She grins to herself, rolling over again.

Because if Wonyoung is really starting to fall for her, then that just means Yujin can keep being close, keep teasing her, keep holding her hand.

And if Yujin happens to like it just as much—if not more—then who cares?

This is fine. Totally fine.

She lets out another quiet giggle, pressing her face into her pillow.

There’s no way she’s sleeping anytime soon—not when her heart is still racing, not when her mind keeps replaying every little thing that happened today.

Yujin turns onto her side and grabs her phone from the nightstand, unlocking it with a swipe of her thumb. Her contacts app is already open, and she scrolls down until she finds Wonyoung’s name.

A smug grin tugs at her lips.

Wonyoung really thought her contact name wasn’t ‘My Little Princess ❤️’ earlier. She acted so sure of it. But, well… it actually was.

Yujin taps on the name, staring at it for a moment. The little heart emoji next to it stares back at her.

She bites her lip, warmth creeping up her neck.

A laugh bubbles out of her as she locks her phone and flops onto her back again, hugging the device to her chest.

She’s so screwed.

But somehow… she didn’t mind.

Not at all.

—

Yujin spots Wonyoung standing by her locker, absentmindedly tucking a strand of hair behind her ear as she rummages through her things.

Yujin doesn’t hesitate. She strolls right up, a playful grin already tugging at her lips. “Morning, princess.”

Wonyoung doesn’t even flinch at the nickname. She just glances at Yujin, eyes briefly flicking down to her before turning back to her locker. “Morning.”

Yujin tilts her head. No teasing remark? No exasperated sigh?

She leans against the locker next to Wonyoung’s, watching her with open amusement. “Sleep well?”

“Mhm,” Wonyoung hums, still focused on whatever she’s looking for.

Yujin narrows her eyes slightly. Wonyoung’s been letting her get away with a lot lately, and it’s only making Yujin more eager to push her luck.

So she does.

Without thinking much of it, she reaches out and smooths down a stray piece of Wonyoung’s hair, fingers lingering for just a second longer than necessary.

Wonyoung finally pauses, her hand still resting on the books inside her locker. She looks at Yujin, her expression unreadable.

Yujin smiles, tilting her head slightly. How can someone get cuter every day? she wonders, completely lost in thought.

It’s only when Wonyoung blinks at her, eyes widening slightly, that Yujin realizes—

Oh. She said that out loud.

Her smile falters for a split second before she quickly recovers, playing it off with a lazy grin. “Well, I mean, seriously. It’s impressive at this point.”

Wonyoung lets out a soft breath—not quite a laugh, but something close. She shakes her head, lips pressing together like she’s fighting a smile. “You’re so ridiculous.”

“But I’m right,” Yujin counters smoothly, shifting her weight against the lockers as she watches Wonyoung shut hers.

Wonyoung exhales through her nose, finally looking at Yujin properly. And for a moment, she doesn’t say anything. She just looks at her.

Then, with a quiet smile, she simply murmurs, “Let’s go,” before walking ahead.

Yujin watches her go, feeling that familiar warmth settle in her chest.

Yep. She’s absolutely done for.

Yujin blinks, still standing by Wonyoung’s locker as the other girl walks ahead. She doesn’t rush to catch up right away, too caught up in the way Wonyoung had just looked at her. No teasing remark, no exasperated sigh—just that quiet, knowing smile.

It makes her heart do this weird little flip, and she exhales sharply, shaking her head before jogging a few steps to fall into stride beside Wonyoung.

“You’re being really nice to me lately,” Yujin muses, bumping their shoulders together as they walk.

Wonyoung doesn’t look at her, but Yujin sees the small curve of her lips. “Am I?”

“Yes,” Yujin says dramatically. “It’s kinda throwing me off.”

Wonyoung finally turns her head, tilting it slightly. “Do you not want me to be nice?”

“No, I like it.” Yujin grins before she can stop herself. “I really like it.”

Wonyoung rolls her eyes, but there’s no real annoyance behind it. Just amusement. Maybe something fonder, too.

Yujin watches as Wonyoung lifts a hand to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear, the smallest hint of pink dusting her cheeks.

The sight makes Yujin’s grin widen. “See? So cute.”

Wonyoung huffs, nudging Yujin’s arm in an attempt to shut her up, but Yujin just laughs.

“You know,” Yujin starts, tilting her head playfully, “if you keep blushing all cute like that, I think you’ll actually start developing a crush on me.”

Wonyoung shoots her a look, and once again there’s no real bite to it. “You’re delusional.”

Yujin gasps dramatically. “Oh no, she’s back to being mean again. Guess the kindness was just a phase.”

That gets her. Wonyoung presses her lips together, but Yujin sees it—the corners of her mouth twitching, the way her eyes crinkle just the slightest. And then, finally, the smile slips through, small but undeniably there.

Yujin stops walking for a second, just staring, before a grin overtakes her face—big, genuine, and a little too happy for what just happened.

“You smiled,” she says, unable to keep the giddiness from her voice.

Wonyoung rolls her eyes, but the pink dusting her cheeks gives her away. “So what?”

Yujin just shakes her head, still grinning like an idiot. “Nothing. I just… I really like it when you smile.”

She doesn’t mean to say it out loud—it just kind of slips, but when Wonyoung glances at her, something flickers in her gaze.

And then, just as easily as before, Wonyoung looks away.

“Come on,” she says, adjusting the strap of her bag over her shoulder. “We’re gonna be late.”

Yujin blinks, still standing there, trying to process whatever just happened. The warmth from earlier lingers, trailing all the way to her fingertips.

But then Wonyoung tugs lightly on her sleeve, urging her to move, and Yujin shakes herself out of it, quickly falling into step beside her.

Her heart is still beating a little too fast.

She doesn't really know what just happened.

All she knows is that Wonyoung didn’t tell her she was wrong.

—

Later into the day, Wonyoung steps into a bathroom stall, locking the door behind her, but her mind is still racing. She pulls at the waistband of her skirt, trying to focus on something else, anything else. But then, a few voices filter into the bathroom, familiar voices.

Yujin's friends.

It’s only when she hears Yujin’s name that her ears immediately perk up, her heart skipping a beat for no real reason.

She knows Yujin is close with her friends, but what she hears next stops her in her tracks.

“This bet is too easy. I still can't believe she’s falling for it,” Rei says, her voice low but clear. “I mean, it's so obvious. Yujin can get any girl she wants, and Wonyoung—she's being so... easy. Easier than expected”

Wonyoung freezes, clenching her fists. The words hit her like a slap in the face.

Ryujin chuckles softly. “Yeah, it’s almost too easy. I swear, I thought she'd catch on sooner. But it’s pretty funny to watch her fall for it.”

Jimin adds in a teasing tone, “Yujin’s been all over her. Did you see how she’s been with her lately? All that cutesy stuff. It's so obvious."

Wonyoung’s chest tightens, her stomach flipping as the realization sinks in. The laughter, the teasing, the way Yujin had been following her around for the past week—it wasn’t because Yujin liked her.

It was a bet.

Her clenched fists were shaking now. The betrayal tastes bitter in her mouth.

For a second, she doesn’t know whether she should stay in the bathroom or walk out. But what’s the point? She already heard enough.

She forces herself to breathe, to steady her shaking hands. There’s a sudden weight in her chest, something that feels a little too heavy to ignore.

Yujin had been sweet to her, so sweet, but it had all been a game. To her, it was just a challenge. To her friends, it was entertainment.

Wonyoung wants to laugh at herself. How could she have been so stupid? How could she have thought it was anything else? She’s angry at herself for being so blind, for falling for it.

The voices fade as Yujin’s friends leave the bathroom, their laughter still echoing in her mind. The betrayal stings more than she expected, and she doesn’t even know why it feels so deep.

It was just a bet, right?

That’s all it was.

Wonyoung slowly steps out of the stall, the sound of her footsteps muffled against the tile floor. She moves towards the sink, eyes fixed on the mirror in front of her.

She’s trying to steady her breath, to calm the storm inside her. But when she looks up, she doesn't even realize that the tears have already started slipping down her cheeks. Slowly, quietly, they trail down her face, a stark contrast to the numbness she’s trying so hard to hold on to.

“Great,” she mutters to herself, wiping at her eyes quickly. She’s so embarrassed, so frustrated with herself.

But then her thoughts come rushing in again.

Gosh, she just had to fall so easily for Yujin. But how couldn’t she? It was Yujin.

She wasn’t immune to her charm, to the way Yujin could make everything feel lighter just by being near her. The way Yujin’s smile could melt the tension in the room, how she always knew just what to say to make Wonyoung’s heart skip a beat. Wonyoung had tried to ignore it, tried to push it down, but how could she not fall for that?

It was Yujin. And that made it almost impossible to not want her to be real.

Wonyoung takes a deep breath and fixes her appearance in the mirror, forcing the tears to stop, to calm herself. She can’t be weak, not now. Not after hearing all that.

She straightens up, ready to face the world again, even if the smile that will appear on her face won’t feel genuine anymore.

Wonyoung steps out of the bathroom, the cool air hitting her skin like a reminder of everything that just happened. She straightens up, wiping any last trace of emotion from her face. She can’t let anyone see her fall apart, especially not Yujin.

But as soon as she turns the corner, her eyes land on Yujin.

She freezes.

Yujin’s already walking down the hallway, hands in her pockets, her usual goofy smile plastered on her face. The way her eyes light up when she spots Wonyoung is unmistakable.

It's like the whole world disappears for a moment, and it’s just the two of them, the usual warmth filling the space between them.

“Hey, princess!” Yujin calls out, the smile spreading across her face.

But Wonyoung doesn’t answer.

She just keeps walking, her steps purposeful, ignoring Yujin completely. Her heart is pounding in her chest, but it's not because she’s flustered or embarrassed. It’s anger, frustration—hurt.

Yujin blinks, clearly confused, and calls her name again. “Wonyoung? You okay?”

Wonyoung doesn’t even spare a glance. She tightens her grip on her books, trying to keep herself from falling apart right here, right now. The familiar sight of Yujin, the way she always made her heart flutter, only makes it worse now.

She knows it’s all just a game to Yujin. She knows it was a bet all along.

Before she can stop herself, she feels a pang of something sharp and bitter surge through her chest. She forces herself not to look back, even though she can feel Yujin’s gaze following her.

It feels wrong, not feeling that rush of happiness when she sees Yujin. She hates it, and yet she can’t stop herself from walking faster, from pushing Yujin’s voice out of her head.

She keeps walking, her pace quickening, leaving Yujin behind.

Yujin stands there for a moment, her brow furrowed in confusion. She watches Wonyoung's retreating figure, unsure of what just happened. It wasn’t like her at all.

She doesn't understand what’s happening. Wonyoung had never acted like this before. She had always been so open, so easy to talk to, so warm. But now… now, there’s a coldness in her demeanor that Yujin can’t ignore.

She shakes her head, pushing through her confusion, and hurries after her. She catches up quickly, reaching out and grabbing Wonyoung’s wrist before she can walk any further.

Wonyoung jerks away from her grip, spinning to face her. Her eyes are sharp, but there’s something broken in them. Her lips tremble as she glares at Yujin. “What?” she snaps, her voice colder than usual.

Yujin's heart drops. She can barely keep her voice steady. “Wonyoung, what’s wrong? You’re—” She’s about to ask more, but she sees it in Wonyoung’s eyes. The hurt. The disappointment.

And then Wonyoung laughs, but it’s bitter. “Nothing was real, was it?” she spits, crossing her arms tightly over her chest. “Everything was just a bet.” She takes a deep breath, and Yujin can hear the tightness in her voice. “I overheard your friends in the bathroom. They were laughing, saying I was too easy... that I fell for you. That I actually fell for you.”

She shakes her head, letting out a small, humorless laugh. “I did fall for you, you know. You won. You got what you wanted.”

Yujin’s heart sinks further as she watches Wonyoung’s face twist with bitterness. “Wonyoung…” she begins, but the words don’t come out right.

Wonyoung doesn’t give her the chance to speak. She takes a step back, her eyes hard, and says in a low voice, “Goodbye, Yujin.” She turns, walking away without another word.

Yujin stands there, completely dumbfounded. Her chest aches, her mind racing. Wonyoung’s words echo in her head, but they don’t make sense. They can’t make sense.

She was right. It had started as a bet. But it didn’t stay that way. Not for Yujin. Not anymore.

Wonyoung had to know that. She had to know that Yujin kept pursuing her, not just because of the bet, but because she genuinely liked her, cared about her. But now… now it feels like everything has shattered. Yujin didn’t just want Wonyoung to fall in love with her for the sake of winning a bet.

She wanted to be with her.

She liked her.

But all of that seems irrelevant now. Wonyoung’s gone, walking away from her, and Yujin’s left standing there, feeling like the world’s been knocked off its axis.

She stands there for a while, watching Wonyoung’s retreating figure, her heart heavy and conflicted. There’s so much she wants to say, so many feelings bubbling up inside her, but she doesn’t know how to fix this, how to explain everything that’s happened. How to make it right when she can’t even begin to understand what went wrong.

All Yujin can do is stand there, silently, her chest aching with the weight of unspoken words and regret.

Chapter Text

Yujin storms into the cafeteria, her anger boiling over as she spots her friends sitting at a table in the corner. Her footsteps are heavier than usual as she makes her way over to them, all of them looking up in surprise as she slams herself into a chair.

Her friends exchange confused glances. Rei raises an eyebrow, breaking the silence. “What’s going on with you? You look like you’re about to explode.”

Yujin crosses her arms tightly, scowling. “I’m angry at you guys,” she snaps, not even bothering to soften her tone.

Ryujin blinks in confusion, glancing at Jimin. “Why? What did we do?”

Yujin’s eyes narrow, her fingers tapping irritably on the table. “You guys. You just couldn’t keep your mouths shut, could you?” she grumbles, her voice dripping with frustration.

Rei leans forward, clearly not understanding. “What are you talking about?”

Yujin exhales sharply, rubbing her face in exasperation. “Wonyoung. She found out about the bet. Because of you guys. Because of your loud mouths!” She can feel her chest tightening as she speaks, a mix of anger and hurt in her voice. “She overheard you guys talking about it in the bathroom. She knows it was a bet, and now she thinks that’s all this ever was.”

Her friends just blink at her, their expressions blank for a moment. “What? How does that even make sense? Weren’t you always telling us it was a bet?” Jimin asks, still unsure of the gravity of the situation.

Yujin’s frustration grows, her hands gripping the edge of the table as she leans forward. “Yeah, at first, it was a bet. But it’s not just that anymore. I like her. I genuinely like her, okay?” she says, her voice shaking with the weight of her emotions. “It was never just about the bet. It stopped being a game for me a long time ago.”

The table falls silent as Yujin’s words hang in the air, the weight of the revelation sinking in.

Ryujin’s eyes widen slightly, but it’s Rei who speaks first, her voice quieter than usual. "Oh... so you actually like her? Like, really like her? We made those 'down bad' jokes because we thought you wanted to win the bet."

Yujin’s chest aches, the truth spilling out so easily now that it feels almost freeing. “Yes. I do. But it doesn’t matter now, does it? Because she thinks I was just messing with her this whole time.” She throws her hands up in frustration, the weight of everything crashing down on her. “I don’t know how to fix this, how to make her see that I’m not just some jerk who used her for a bet.”

Jimin, who had been quiet up until now, leans in with a frown. “Yujin, we didn’t mean for this to happen. We didn’t think it would go this far. We didn’t realize it was more than a joke to you.”

Yujin bites her lip, her eyes watering slightly as she stares down at the table. “I didn’t either, okay? But now she’s gone, and she thinks I was just playing her. And I don’t know how to make her understand that I… I care about her.”

Her friends sit in silence, processing everything. Finally, Rei speaks up, her voice softer than usual. “You need to go talk to her. Apologize, explain yourself. Don’t let her keep thinking that it was all just a game.”

Yujin’s gaze flickers up at them, her expression a mix of desperation and uncertainty. “What if she doesn’t want to talk to me? What if it’s too late?”

Jimin shrugs, offering a half-smile. “It’s never too late, Yujin. You just need to show her that you’re serious. You’ve got this.”

Yujin hesitates, but something inside her shifts. Maybe her friends are right. Just this once. Maybe there’s still a chance to fix this, to show Wonyoung that she wasn’t just messing around.

She takes a deep breath, pushing aside the anxiety creeping up on her. “You’re right,” she mutters, looking up at them with determination. “I’ll talk to her. I just hope she’ll listen.”

With that, Yujin stands up from the table, ready to find Wonyoung and make things right.

Yujin looks at the usual spot where Wonyoung sits with her friends in the cafeteria, but there is no sign of her. Yujin’s heart races as she rushes through the school, her eyes scanning every hallway, every corner, every place Wonyoung might be. She doesn’t stop to think; all she can focus on is finding her. She then moves to the library, hoping Wonyoung is there, surrounded by the quiet hum of books, but it’s empty. She checks the bleachers outside, the place Wonyoung likes to retreat to when she needs a moment of quiet, but nothing.

Her mind begins to race. Where could she be?

Just as her frustration begins to build, she spots her—Wonyoung, walking alone down a corridor, her eyes fixed ahead as she walks, completely unaware of Yujin’s presence. Her heart leaps, and before she can second-guess herself, Yujin quickens her pace and catches up to her.

"Wonyoung!" Yujin calls out, grabbing Wonyoung’s wrist to stop her.

Wonyoung flinches, clearly startled by the sudden touch, and whips around to face Yujin, her expression closed off, guarded. “What is it, Yujin?” she asks flatly, her voice lacking its usual warmth.

Yujin can feel the coldness in Wonyoung’s tone, the distance between them more palpable than ever. “Wait, please,” Yujin says, her voice soft, but insistent. “Just let me say something. Please, just listen.”

Wonyoung’s brow furrows, and she pulls her wrist free, clearly not wanting to engage, but Yujin doesn’t let her leave.

“I didn’t mean for it to happen like this. The bet… it was supposed to be a joke, I know, but it turned into something else. I—I like you. I really like you, Wonyoung,” Yujin says, the words tumbling out of her mouth before she can stop them. Her eyes are searching Wonyoung’s face, trying to gauge her reaction, but Wonyoung just stands there, unmoving, her gaze distant.

“Stop,” Wonyoung says, her voice quieter now, but with an edge to it. “It doesn’t matter now. It was a bet. That’s all it ever was.”

Yujin’s chest tightens. “No. No, it wasn’t. I’m sorry, okay? I messed up. But I swear, I’ve started to care about you. More than just the bet. My feelings are real, Wonyoung. I like you.”

Wonyoung’s eyes flicker with something unreadable, but she doesn’t respond right away. Yujin takes a step closer, hoping to bridge the gap between them.

“You don’t have to believe me right away. I just wanted you to know that I’m not messing around anymore. I’ve never been more serious about anything,” Yujin says, her voice earnest.

For a moment, there’s a heavy silence between them, the tension thick in the air. Wonyoung looks down, her fingers gripping the strap of her bag, as if trying to hold herself together. Finally, after what feels like forever, she looks up at Yujin, her expression softening just a little.

“I don’t know if I can just forget all of this, Yujin,” she says quietly, her voice trembling ever so slightly. “You made me believe something that wasn’t real. How am I supposed to trust that now?”

Yujin’s heart aches at her words, the weight of her own guilt sinking deep into her chest. “I get it,” Yujin says softly, stepping back a little, giving Wonyoung space. “I’ve hurt you, and I’m so sorry for that. But if you’ll just give me a chance, I’ll prove it to you. I want to show you that this isn’t a joke. You mean more to me than you think.”

Wonyoung remains quiet for a long moment, her eyes avoiding Yujin’s. She exhales slowly, as if weighing her options. Finally, she looks up at Yujin again, her voice quieter this time.

“I don’t know, Yujin. I need time,” she says, her tone softer than before, but still guarded.

Yujin nods, her heart heavy but understanding. “I’ll give you all the time you need,” she says, her voice full of sincerity. “I’m not going anywhere. I just want you to know how I feel.”

Wonyoung looks at her for another long moment, her eyes still filled with uncertainty. But she nods, just barely, before turning and walking away without another word.

Yujin watches her go, standing there in the silence, feeling both relieved and heartbroken. At least Wonyoung had listened. And maybe, just maybe, there was still hope.

—

The next day, Yujin finds herself unconsciously keeping her distance from Wonyoung, letting her have the space she clearly needs.

Every time their paths cross, Yujin holds herself back, watching from afar, letting Wonyoung go about her day without intrusion. It’s the least she can do after everything that happened yesterday.

She catches glimpses of Wonyoung in the hallways, her eyes tracking her every move, but she doesn’t approach. She watches her laugh with her friends, her usual carefree smile lighting up her face, but Yujin stays rooted where she is, letting the distance grow between them.

The cafeteria, usually a place where they might sit together, feels like an obstacle.

Yujin watches Wonyoung sit with her group at their usual table, her face more reserved today than usual, but still surrounded by laughter and conversation. Yujin doesn’t join them. She doesn’t sit down, even though the urge to walk over and sit beside her is almost overwhelming.

She tells herself that this is what Wonyoung needs—time to process, to think, to breathe. Yujin isn’t going to rush her. She knows she has to be patient, even though every instinct in her screams to reach out and make things right.

The day passes in a blur of fleeting moments—small exchanges, half smiles from across the room, but nothing more.

She doesn’t want to push. Yujin learned her lesson. She’ll wait.

Yujin sits by the bleachers, her mind feeling like a haze. She tries to focus on something—anything—but nothing seems to hold her attention for long. She shifts her weight on the cold concrete, a vague attempt to keep herself busy, but her thoughts keep drifting back to Wonyoung.

Her mind just won’t let go.

She sighs and pulls her phone out of her pocket, staring at the screen for a moment before her fingers start scrolling without any conscious thought. Her thumb moves over Wonyoung’s Instagram feed, her eyes catching on the pictures and posts that are all so... Wonyoung.

She doesn’t even realize she’s smiling until she feels it—soft and hopeless.

There’s a warmth in her chest, but it’s laced with frustration. Wonyoung is so cute, so effortlessly charming, and Yujin feels like she’s sinking into the realization that she’s completely falling for her. 

She lingers on the photos, each one making her heart ache a little more. Wonyoung’s genuine smiles, her playful poses, the way she radiates energy even in still images.

Yujin can’t help but think back to everything—how she never intended for it to get this deep, how she’d never expected herself to feel this way, to care this much. And yet, here she is, smiling like a lovesick fool at her phone, as if the distance between them could somehow shrink by staring at pictures of her.

Her thumb slows as she stops at one particular photo—a candid shot of Wonyoung laughing with her friends.

There’s something about it, something so raw and real, that makes Yujin’s chest tighten. She bites her lip, holding back the wave of emotions that threaten to flood her.

"Idiot," Yujin whispers to herself, wiping away the smile before it can turn into something too obvious.

She stares at the screen one last time, letting her thoughts linger there for a few more seconds, before her thumb swipes off the app and locks her phone.

She leans back against the bleachers, feeling the weight of everything—of Wonyoung, of her own feelings, of the silence between them that feels too heavy to bear.

But she knows, deep down, she’ll keep waiting. Even if Wonyoung needs space, Yujin can’t seem to stop herself from hoping that someday soon, maybe she’ll get a chance to fix things.

—

It’s been three days since.

Yujin’s heart skips a beat as she rounds the corner, lost in her own thoughts, and then—bam—she bumps into someone.

Wonyoung.

The world seems to freeze for a moment. Yujin’s eyes widen, and before she even registers it, she’s apologizing in a flurry, her voice stumbling over itself. “Oh, I’m so sorry! I wasn’t looking—are you okay?”

Her hands instinctively move to help pick up the books Wonyoung dropped. She crouches down quickly, her fingers brushing against the spine of a thick textbook. Her movements feel rushed, but her mind is racing even faster.

She watches Wonyoung dust herself off, trying to act normal, but her heart feels like it’s thudding in her chest.

It’s been three days.

Three long days since she’s seen her this close. She can feel the tension between them, and it hits her hard, almost too painfully.

Wonyoung is standing in front of her, looking just as beautiful as she always does. Yujin’s eyes linger for a second longer than she should.

She forces her gaze back to the books in her hands, before standing up and handing them to Wonyoung. Her fingers brush Wonyoung’s lightly, and for a brief second, Yujin can’t help but feel the spark of it all.

“Um... how have you been?” Yujin asks, her voice softer than usual. She wasn’t sure if it was the right question to ask, but she had to say something. She couldn’t just stand there in silence anymore.

Wonyoung doesn’t answer right away, her gaze flickering to the ground before meeting Yujin’s eyes briefly.

There’s a quiet pause, a moment that stretches between them like an awkward silence neither of them seems sure how to fill. Yujin feels the weight of it. The gap between them feels wide, and yet it’s only been a few days since they were laughing together.

“I’ve been... fine,” Wonyoung finally replies, her voice flat. It’s clear there’s something unsaid, a heaviness in her words. She shifts uncomfortably, like she wants to move past the conversation. Yujin notices the way Wonyoung doesn’t meet her gaze for long, instead looking off to the side, her body language closed off.

Yujin feels her stomach twist. She doesn’t know what to say next, but it’s like her heart is speaking before her brain can process. “Wonyoung, I—”

She stops herself before she can continue. She’s not sure what she was going to say, but the tension hanging in the air feels too thick. Yujin stands there awkwardly, holding onto the books, unsure whether to push for more or just let it go.

Wonyoung sighs quietly, her voice quieter than before. “Look, I don’t think we should—”

But before she can finish, Yujin blurts out, “I really like you, Wonyoung. I know I've already said this, but it’s not a bet anymore. It never was.”

She takes a breath, quickly continuing, her words tumbling out in a rush, “Okay, it did start off as a bet, but soon, really quickly, I stopped caring about the bet. I just... I found myself falling for you. Not a crush, not some fleeting thing, but love. I’ve never felt this way before. And I know you said we should have some space, and I get it, I do. But I swear, if I don’t hear your voice, or talk to you, or just... be around you, I’m going to lose my mind.”

Yujin’s heart is racing, her hands trembling as she holds the books in her arms like they might give her some sense of stability. She looks at Wonyoung, hoping, praying that her words have gotten through, but all she sees is silence. Wonyoung doesn’t move, doesn’t say anything for what feels like forever.

Wonyoung’s eyes flicker down to the ground, and then back up to meet Yujin’s. There’s something in her gaze—maybe it’s confusion, maybe hurt—but Yujin can’t tell. It’s like there are a thousand unsaid things between them, and Yujin feels the weight of each one pressing down on her chest.

“I just... needed you to know,” Yujin continues, voice softer now. “I know I messed up, I know I hurt you, and I’m so sorry. But I can’t take this back. I-I think I’m in love with you, Wonyoung.”

Wonyoung stands there, her expression unreadable. Yujin feels her stomach drop, her words hanging in the air like a delicate thread. She’s not sure what she’s expecting—she’s not sure she’s even expecting anything at all—but whatever she thought would happen, this silence isn’t it.

She swallows hard, trying to steady her breath. “I don’t want to push you, but please... just say something. Anything.”

The space between them feels unbearable now, and Yujin wonders if she’s made a mistake. If this is it. If everything she’s felt for the past week was just... too much. Too fast. Too real.

But before she can spiral any further, Wonyoung finally opens her mouth, her voice small but steady. “Yujin... you’re not the only one who’s confused.”

Yujin’s heart skips a beat. She can hardly believe what she’s hearing, her breath caught in her throat. She stares at Wonyoung, eyes wide, waiting for her to say more.

“What do you mean?” Yujin asks softly, her voice trembling, though she tries to hold it steady. She doesn’t want to interrupt her. She doesn’t want to rush this moment, even though every inch of her feels like she’s about to explode from anticipation.

Wonyoung looks down at the ground for a moment, gathering her thoughts. When she looks back up, her expression is softer, though there’s still a layer of uncertainty in her eyes. “I... I didn’t know what to think when I found out,” she says quietly. “The bet... it hurt. I won’t lie. But I started thinking about it... about you... And everything just got so complicated.”

Yujin feels her chest tighten, but she’s afraid to speak. She doesn’t want to say the wrong thing and make things worse. So she just nods, silently urging Wonyoung to continue.

“I think... I think I’ve been avoiding you because I didn’t want to get my hopes up,” Wonyoung continues, her voice small, vulnerable. “I didn’t want to fall for you... if it wasn’t real. If it was just a game. But I realized something. I don’t know how to ignore what I feel for you anymore.”

Yujin’s heart flutters at her words. She can feel the warmth spreading through her chest, the hope slowly returning, but it’s still fragile. “So... what are you saying?” she asks, almost afraid to ask, afraid of the answer she might get.

Wonyoung exhales softly, her shoulders dropping as if she’s been carrying a weight this whole time. “I don’t want to rush into anything. But I’m… I’m willing to take a chance on us. On you.”

Yujin’s breath hitches. She doesn’t know if she’s hearing this right. “Wait... you—” she starts, then stops herself, suddenly worried she might have misunderstood.

Wonyoung meets her gaze, and for the first time in days, Yujin sees something that makes her heart leap—something like hope, something like possibility. “I’m not saying everything is perfect,” Wonyoung says. “But I’m willing to try. I want to see where this can go. If you’re willing, too.”

Yujin feels like her heart is going to burst. She takes a step closer, her eyes shining, her hands trembling. She doesn’t want to overwhelm Wonyoung, but she can’t help it.

“You have no idea how much that means to me,” Yujin whispers, her voice thick with emotion. “I’ll do whatever it takes, Wonyoung. I just— I just want to be with you.”

Wonyoung’s lips twitch up into a small, shy smile. “You’re an idiot, you know that?”

Yujin laughs softly, the sound a mixture of relief and joy. “I know. But I’m your idiot now.”

Yujin’s face turns bright red. “Wait—no, that’s not what I meant,” she stammers, flustered. Her heart is racing, and she feels like she’s about to combust. “I just meant—uh—I didn’t mean it like that!”

But as Yujin mumbles under her breath, her voice quiet, she says, “But I wouldn’t mind... actually... if I was yours.”

Her words come out softer than she intended, but somehow, the quiet confession still carries enough weight for Wonyoung to hear.

Yujin’s eyes widen as soon as she realizes what she’s said, and she braces herself for the awkward silence, but instead, she sees Wonyoung smile—soft, knowing.

Wonyoung doesn’t say anything, just lets the silence linger between them. And then, to Yujin’s complete surprise, Wonyoung leans in and presses a soft kiss to her cheek.

Yujin freezes, her mind completely blank for a moment as she feels the warmth of Wonyoung’s lips against her skin. Her heart leaps in her chest, and she can hardly believe what just happened.

Wonyoung pulls back, her smile still there, but there’s a certain playfulness in her gaze.

“What was that for?” Yujin asks, still in a daze, trying to process everything, her hand instinctively touching her cheek where Wonyoung had kissed her.

Wonyoung simply shrugs, her voice light as she glances over her shoulder. “No reason,” she says, the glint in her eye making it clear she’s enjoying the moment a little too much. “We’re going to run late for class if we keep standing here.”

And just like that, Wonyoung turns and starts walking away, leaving Yujin standing there, utterly bewildered. Yujin watches her go, still trying to catch up with everything that just happened.

Her heart feels like it’s still stuck in her throat, a mix of excitement, confusion, and the most overwhelming sense of happiness.

Yujin can’t help but smile to herself. She knows she should hurry to class, but for once, she doesn’t mind being late. Because in that moment, everything feels perfect.

—

Wonyoung steps out of her classroom, expecting to head to the next one, but she’s taken off guard when she sees Yujin waiting outside.

The way she’s standing there, hands in her pockets, trying to look casual, makes Wonyoung’s heart flutter just a little bit.

She walks toward Yujin with an exaggerated raise of her brow. “So, I guess you know my schedule now too, huh?”

Yujin lets out a soft laugh, scratching the back of her neck nervously. “Uh... I asked Jiwon what classes you had,” she admits, clearly not prepared for Wonyoung to tease her.

Wonyoung chuckles lightly at how endearing Yujin is in these little moments. It’s almost as if she’s still the same Yujin, the one who used to make her laugh with her goofy jokes and clumsy moments, but with something deeper now. Something that makes Wonyoung’s heart squeeze in a way she hadn’t anticipated.

“So, where are you heading now?” Yujin asks, her voice softer than usual, and Wonyoung looks at her, noticing how her dimples peek out with a shy smile.

Wonyoung shrugs, her mood light. “I’m just heading to the next class. You?”

Yujin grins. “Same here. Wanna walk together?”

Wonyoung feels something warm spread across her chest at the invitation. “Sure,” she replies, her lips curving into a small smile as she starts walking beside Yujin.

As they walk down the hallway, Yujin keeps a bit of distance between them at first. But then, Wonyoung feels a gentle brush against her hand. It’s soft and unintentional at first, but the lingering touch sends a warmth shooting through her. She tries to ignore it, but there’s a part of her that can’t. She looks down, then back up at Yujin, whose eyes are nervously focused ahead.

Wonyoung feels a tiny thrill at the thought of doing something a little daring, so she hesitates for only a second before reaching for Yujin’s hand. She intertwines their fingers, feeling the soft warmth of Yujin’s skin against hers. The simple touch is electric, and for a moment, Wonyoung wonders why it took her this long to do something like this.

Yujin freezes for a moment, surprised. But then she looks down at their intertwined hands, her lips curling into a grin that makes Wonyoung’s heart beat faster. The dimples on her face appear, and Yujin’s eyes light up with that adorably shy joy Wonyoung had missed so much.

“You—uh... you’re holding my hand,” Yujin says, her voice soft, almost in disbelief.

Wonyoung glances at her, her smile a little playful. “Is that a problem?”

Yujin shakes her head, her smile widening as she pulls Wonyoung's hand a little closer. “No, not at all,” she says, her voice full of fondness. “It’s just... I wasn’t expecting this.”

Wonyoung feels her cheeks flush, but she doesn’t look away. She squeezes Yujin’s hand gently, feeling a sense of comfort wash over her.

Yujin smiles, her heart racing a little as they continue walking, fingers still intertwined. Her thoughts are scattered, the feel of Wonyoung’s hand in hers distracting in the best way possible.

The comfortable silence settles between them, but then, just as the moment feels perfect, Yujin clears her throat, breaking the quiet.

“So... Valentine’s Day is in two days,” she starts, her voice a little more hesitant now, like she’s unsure how to bring it up. “And... well... since, you know... I like you...” She pauses, her face flushing slightly as she nervously glances at Wonyoung. “I was wondering... maybe we could... be each other's Valentines?”

Wonyoung looks at her, a glint of playful mischief in her eyes as she raises an eyebrow. She taps her finger against her chin, pretending to think about it seriously, dragging out the suspense. “Hmm...” she hums thoughtfully. “I don’t know... where are the Valentine’s confession props?”

Yujin stops walking for a second, blinking in confusion before realizing Wonyoung is teasing her. She chuckles nervously, but she can’t stop the grin that spreads across her face. “What? Props? Like... roses and chocolates? Is that what you mean?”

Wonyoung nods, a teasing smile on her lips. “Obviously. It’s not a proper Valentine’s confession without some kind of grand gesture, right?”

Yujin laughs, a sound full of warmth and fondness, her chest tight with happiness. “I can get you roses... and chocolates if that’s what you want,” she offers, her eyes sparkling with sincerity. “But honestly, I’d just be happy to spend the day with you, however that looks.”

Wonyoung’s teasing smile softens a little as she meets Yujin’s gaze. Her heart flutters, but she tries to keep up the playful act. “Hmm, well, I guess... if you’re serious, I could consider it,” she says, nudging Yujin’s shoulder with hers. “But you’ll need to step it up a little. A nice dinner, some flowers, maybe a couple of cute notes?”

Yujin laughs again, shaking her head, her face lighting up at the idea. “Deal,” she says, her voice full of amusement and determination. “Whatever it takes to make you say yes.”

“You’re enough for me to say yes.”

"W-What?" Yujin’s heart skips a beat at Wonyoung’s words, her cheeks flushing slightly, a soft smile tugging at her lips. She wasn’t expecting that at all, but hearing it makes her feel like the world just shifted into a place where everything makes sense.

Wonyoung’s gaze softens, her fingers tightening around Yujin’s hand just a little. “You’re enough for me to say yes,” she repeats, her voice quieter now, a hint of something deeper in her tone.

Yujin blinks, stunned for a moment. Her mind tries to process what just happened—Wonyoung, saying she’s enough. It makes her heart race, and she can’t help but let out a breathless laugh, a small chuckle escaping as she looks at Wonyoung in disbelief.

“You— I... really?” Yujin asks, her voice barely above a whisper, the vulnerability in her words betraying her surprise.

Wonyoung simply nods, a smile playing at her lips. “Yeah, really,” she says softly, her eyes meeting Yujin’s with a sincerity that makes Yujin feel like she’s floating. “You’re enough, Yujin.”

For a few seconds, neither of them says anything. The air between them seems to thrum with a quiet, gentle energy, their hands still tangled together as they walk side by side.

Yujin’s brain is still buzzing, but at the same time, her chest feels light—like all the tension and worry about Valentine’s Day, and about whether Wonyoung would even say yes, just disappeared into the air between them.

“Guess I’m your Valentine, then?” Yujin teases softly, her voice still a little breathless from the sudden rush of emotions.

Wonyoung laughs, a sound so natural and bright that it makes Yujin feel even more at ease. “Looks like it,” she says, her smile warm and inviting, her eyes sparkling.

—

Wonyoung spins the lock on her locker, the familiar click sounding as she pulls it open. Just as she reaches for her books, a sudden warmth envelops her from behind, arms wrapping around her shoulders in a surprise hug.

She gasps, her body stiffening for a brief second before she hears a familiar voice, soft and playful against her ear.

“Happy Valentine’s Day.”

Wonyoung turns around quickly, her heart still racing from the unexpected embrace. And there stands Yujin, her dimples showing as she grins, hands tucked behind her back like she’s hiding something.

Wonyoung raises an eyebrow, pretending to be suspicious. “What are you up to?”

Yujin shifts on her feet, looking almost shy for a moment before finally revealing what she’s been hiding—a bouquet of fresh flowers in one hand and a neatly wrapped box of chocolates in the other.

“For you,” Yujin says, her voice a little softer now. “Since, you know… you’re my Valentine.”

Wonyoung’s eyes widen slightly as she takes in the sight. The flowers are beautiful, but what catches her attention more is the chocolates. She immediately recognizes the packaging—her absolute favorite.

Her lips part in surprise. “Wait… how did you know I like these?”

Yujin looks away, rubbing the back of her neck as a light blush dusts her cheeks. “Uh… I may have asked your friends,” she admits, eyes darting back to Wonyoung to gauge her reaction.

For a moment, Wonyoung just stares at her. Then, she lets out a soft laugh, her heart warming at the thought of Yujin going out of her way to ask about her favorites.

“That’s kind of cute,” Wonyoung teases, taking the chocolates from Yujin’s hands, her fingers brushing against hers.

Yujin pouts playfully. “Kind of?”

Wonyoung hums, pretending to think. “Mmm, yeah. Kind of.”

Yujin huffs, crossing her arms. “I’ll have you know, I worked really hard on this, you know.”

Wonyoung giggles, shaking her head. “I can tell,” she says, hugging the chocolates close. Then, after a brief pause, she glances up at Yujin, her voice quieter now. “Thank you, really.”

Yujin softens, her eyes gentle as she nods. “Anything for you, Wonyoung.”

And just like that, Wonyoung feels her heart flutter—because even though the chocolates are sweet, the flowers are pretty, and the whole gesture makes her happy, nothing compares to the way Yujin looks at her.

Wonyoung smiles, hugging the chocolates to her chest for a moment before gently placing them inside her locker along with the flowers. "I'll keep these safe for now," she says, turning back to Yujin. "School isn't over yet, after all."

Yujin nods, still grinning, feeling accomplished that Wonyoung liked her gift. "Good call. Wouldn't want anyone trying to steal them from you."

She hums in agreement, but then, before Yujin can process what's happening, Wonyoung takes a small step forward, tilts her head slightly—

And presses a soft kiss against Yujin’s lips.

It’s brief but warm, feather-light yet enough to make Yujin freeze completely.

Wonyoung pulls away, watching her with amusement as Yujin just stands there —her brain clearly short-circuiting. Her eyes are wide, her mouth slightly open as if she wants to say something, but no words come out.

“Y-You—” Yujin stammers, blinking rapidly. Her cheeks turn a deep shade of red as she struggles to function, her hands awkwardly hovering in the air like she doesn't know what to do with them.

Wonyoung laughs, the sound light and teasing. She places a hand on Yujin’s arm, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “Why do you look so shocked? Isn’t this what you wanted?”

Yujin still can’t form a coherent response. “Yes! I—I mean—but—”

Wonyoung just giggles at her, finding Yujin’s flustered state absolutely adorable. She tilts her head playfully. “And you keep calling me cute,” she teases, poking Yujin’s warm cheek. “But I think you’re the cute one.”

Yujin finally exhales, covering her face with both hands as she groans. “Wonyoung, you can’t just do that out of nowhere!”

“Why not?” Wonyoung grins. “You said it yourself... you're my Valentine, aren’t you?”

Yujin peeks at her through her fingers, her heart still racing. “Still… give me a warning next time,” she mutters.

Wonyoung just smirks. “Where’s the fun in that?”

Yujin groans again, but she can’t stop the smile tugging at her lips. Even if she’s completely malfunctioning, she already knows—this is the best Valentine’s Day she’s ever had.

Yujin really wanted to kiss Wonyoung again.

Yujin exhales, finally regaining her composure. But then, she glances at Wonyoung, her eyes flickering with something more determined this time.

Before Wonyoung can react, Yujin leans in and kisses her again.

It’s soft, sweet—just like her.

Their kiss was everything Yujin had hoped for. Her lips were as soft as they looked. She gently bit down on Wonyoung’s bottom lip, smiling into the kiss. She felt like almost combusting at any moment from the younger girl’s lips.

Wonyoung’s arms immediately went around Yujin’s neck. She felt giddy, smiling back against Yujin’s lips. Wonyoung has never been this affected by a kiss in her life.

“AHEM.”

Both of them jump apart like they just got caught committing a crime. Wonyoung whirls around, her face heating up instantly when she sees Jiwon and Gaeul standing there, arms crossed, smirks plastered on their faces.

“Well, damn, Wonyoung.” Jiwon raises an eyebrow. 

“Didn’t know you had it in you.”

Wonyoung sputters, covering her face with both hands. “Oh my god.”

Meanwhile, Yujin is just standing there, hands in her pockets, looking way too entertained. And just like that, Yujin's back to her carefree and smug ways. She snickers, shaking her head. “Didn’t think we’d have an audience.”

Jiwon smirks at Wonyoung. “So, are we finally seeing the rise of our romantic queen?”

Gaeul nudges her. “Yeah, Wonyoung, get that girl.”

Wonyoung groans, now completely red. “You guys are the worst.”

Yujin just laughs, eyes crinkling in amusement. “Hey, I don’t mind the support.” She winks playfully.

Wonyoung glares at her, but she’s still too flustered to even come up with a response. Jiwon and Gaeul just exchange looks, clearly enjoying this way too much.

“Well,” Jiwon grins, throwing an arm around Wonyoung’s shoulder. “We’ll leave you two lovebirds alone. For now.”

Gaeul chuckles. “Yeah, but Wonyoung, next time? Maybe not in the middle of the hallway.”

Wonyoung whines as they walk away, burying her face in her hands again. “I hate them.”

“You love them.” Yujin chuckles, nudging her lightly.

Wonyoung peeks at her from between her fingers. “…Not right now, I don’t.”

Yujin just grins, reaching for her hand and squeezing it. “Well, for what it’s worth… I like it when you’re flustered, it’s very cute.”

Wonyoung groans again, but she doesn’t pull her hand away. Instead, she squeezes back, mumbling, “You’re so annoying.”

Yujin just laughs. “And you’re so cute.”

—

Wonyoung sits at her desk, pretending to focus on the notes in front of her, but it's impossible when Jiwon and Gaeul keep staring at her with knowing smirks.

She sighs, setting her pen down. “Okay, what?”

Jiwon immediately leans in, grinning. “Sooo… how’s it feel?”

Wonyoung blinks. “How does what feel?”

Gaeul wiggles her eyebrows. “Being in your gay little love story.”

Wonyoung groans, slumping forward. “I hate you guys.”

Jiwon snickers. “Uh-huh, sure. Says the girl who literally made out with her Valentine in the middle of the hallway.”

Wonyoung snaps her head up. “It was not making out! It was just—”

“A very gay little moment,” Gaeul interrupts, biting back a laugh. “And the chocolates? The flowers? Yujin literally pulled the romance movie confession special on you.”

Jiwon gasps dramatically. “You’re so right. All that was missing was a love song playing in the background.”

Gaeul nods. “Or, like, a sunset.”

Wonyoung groans, covering her face with her hands. “Seriously, you guys are the worst.”

Gaeul and Jiwon just burst into laughter, high-fiving each other.

Jiwon wheezes, “This is literally the gayest thing I’ve ever seen.”

Gaeul hums. “Honestly, I’m proud of you, Wonyoung. You finally got your girl.” Wonyoung peeks at them through her fingers, her ears still red. “…Shut up.”

Jiwon grins. “Aww, don’t be shy now!” Gaeul chimes in, leaning on her desk. “So? When’s the first date?”

Wonyoung narrows her eyes. “Why do you guys care so much?”

Jiwon shrugs. “Because this is peak entertainment.” Gaeul nods along, “And also because we’re your biggest fans. Duh.”

Wonyoung groans again, but she can’t help the small smile forming on her lips.

The classroom is quiet, save for the teacher’s voice as they go through the lesson. Wonyoung is trying to focus, but her mind keeps drifting back to earlier—to Yujin, the flowers, the chocolates, the—

Before she can spiral into flustered thoughts again, there’s a sudden knock at the door.

Everyone turns their heads as the teacher sighs, already looking exhausted. “Come in.”

The door swings open, and in comes a group of students in matching shirts with heart designs—the Valentine’s Day singing grams.

A few students start whispering excitedly, while Wonyoung blinks, watching as they scan the room before stopping—right in front of her desk.

She freezes.

“Oh no,” she mutters under her breath, already feeling her face heat up.

One of the students clears their throat. “Wonyoung, this is a special Valentine’s song request just for you!”

The class erupts into oohs and giggles, and before Wonyoung can even process, the group launches into song.

“Oh, her eyes, her eyes

Make the stars look like they're not shinin’—”

The classroom loses it. Some students start clapping, others are dying laughing, and Jiwon and Gaeul are practically wheezing at their desks.

Wonyoung, meanwhile, is covering her face, mortified.

“Her hair, her hair

Falls perfectly without her tryin’—”

Jiwon leans over, whispering through her laughter, “No way, Yujin definitely set this up.”

Gaeul nods, wiping a fake tear. “This is peak romance.”

Wonyoung glares at them, but it’s hard to look intimidating when she’s blushing furiously.

The singers keep going, swaying dramatically.

“And when you smile, the whole world stops and stares for a while,

'Cause, girl, you're amazing, just the way you are—”

At this point, the whole class is either cheering, laughing, or filming, and Wonyoung wants the earth to swallow her whole.

She grips the edge of her desk. Yujin. An Yujin, you absolute loveable idiot.

The song finally comes to an end, and the group of singers claps for themselves before handing Wonyoung a small note with a wink.

She hesitantly takes it, unfolding the paper.

Happy Valentine’s Day, Princess! Hope you liked your song :)

From: Yujinnie <3

Wonyoung stares at it, then groans, hiding her face in her arms as her friends howl with laughter beside her.

Despite how embarrassing that was, Wonyoung couldn’t help but smile a little behind her arms.

The lyrics were so sappy, so romantic, and the fact that Yujin—her Yujinnie—chose them just for her made her stomach flutter.

She peeked at the note again, reading over Yujin’s message. Hope you liked your song :)

She did.

She really, really did.

Even if she was going to kill Yujin for making her the center of attention like that.

—

Wonyoung later finds Yujin by the lockers and immediately starts whacking her arm, her face still red from earlier.

“What is wrong with you?!” she exclaims, hitting her again for good measure. “A whole song gram? In front of everyone?! Do you enjoy making me the center of attention or something?!”

Yujin just laughs, letting Wonyoung have her moment. “I thought it was cute,” she says, grinning.

“Cute? I wanted to die,” Wonyoung whines, dramatically leaning against the lockers.

Yujin watches her fondly, biting back a smile before suddenly leaning in, placing a soft, gentle kiss on Wonyoung’s lips.

Wonyoung freezes.

Her heart stops, her breath catches, and for a second, she forgets what she was even mad about.

Before she can recover, Yujin pulls back with a shy but adorable smile, bringing something out from behind her. “Here,” she says, handing Wonyoung a small, neatly wrapped box.

Wonyoung blinks, taking it. “What’s this?”

“A little something for you.”

She unwraps it carefully, revealing a delicate bracelet with a tiny charm in the shape of a heart.

Wonyoung stares at it, her fingers brushing over the charm as something warm blooms in her chest. “You’re so—”

But Yujin isn’t done.

She takes a deep breath, then finally asks, “Wonyoung… will you be my girlfriend?”

Wonyoung's head snaps up, her eyes wide. “What?”

Yujin chuckles nervously. “I mean… officially.”

Wonyoung stares at her for a moment, then slowly starts to smile. “You really had to bring out the big guns, huh?”

“Had to make it count,” Yujin admits sheepishly.

Wonyoung rolls her eyes—but she’s grinning. So much.

“…Yes,” she finally says, slipping the bracelet onto her wrist. “I’ll be your girlfriend, An Yujin.”

And Yujin?

She swears her heart explodes.

Yujin’s grin is so wide that her eyes disappear into little crescents, dimples deep in her cheeks as she looks at Wonyoung like she just won the lottery.

Without even thinking, she leans in, pressing a sweet, soft kiss against Wonyoung’s lips—just a little one, but enough to make Wonyoung’s heart skip a beat.

When she pulls back, Yujin’s still smiling like an absolute fool. “I’m so happy right now,” she murmurs, her voice full of warmth.

Wonyoung giggles, poking Yujin’s cheek. “You look ridiculous.”

“I don’t care,” Yujin says, grinning even harder.

And honestly?

Wonyoung doesn’t mind at all.

“I like you a lot,” Yujin said with a soft smile on her face. Wonyoung giggles and hums in content when Yujin peppers kisses all over her face.

Wonyoung had never been happier in life. She was floored, and completely on cloud nine from her new girlfriend.

“I like you too.”