Minji's Voice - Bbangsaz

Chapter 11

Hanni's POV

The next day, I walked hesitantly down Minji's driveway, biting my lip. I heard what sounded like rock hitting rock somewhere in the back of her house. When I turned the corner, I saw Minji, her hands placing stones for what looked like the beginning of a side yard.

"Hello," I said quietly, and her head snapped up. She seemed a little surprised, but... happy? Maybe? She certainly wasn't the easiest person to read, especially since I couldn't see all of her features clearly beneath the hair that fell over her forehead and around her jaw.

She nodded and raised her hand, indicating a large rock that was to the right of her project, and returned to her work.

I left the restaurant at two and then went home and took a quick shower, got on my bike and went to Minji's house. I had left Milly with Anne because I wasn't sure if other dogs should be around the puppies or not.

When I reached Minji's door, I couldn't help the smile that took over my face when I saw that it was slightly open.

I walked over to the rock she had just indicated and sat on the edge, staring at it in silence for a minute.

Apparently she was a bricklayer in her spare time? It must have been her who had laid out the long driveway and patio in front of her house. She was full of surprises, one after another. I couldn't help but notice the way her arms flexed and tensed as she lifted each stone and placed it in her place.

"Okay, so I made a list," I said, looking at her and pushing my butt higher on the large rock, getting more comfortable.

Minji looked at me, raising her eyebrows.

I was using my voice to speak so she could continue working without having to look at me.

But she sat on her knees, putting her gloved hands on her thighs, and looked at me. She was wearing a pair of faded gym shorts, knee pads, and work boots.

A list? , She asked.

I nodded, placing the list on my lap.

Some names for the puppies.

She cocked her head to the side.

Well...So , I said.

Feel free to cross out, I mean, they're your dogs and all, but I thought Jorangie, Gungdaeng, and Dongie were the best choices.

She looked at me. And then her face did something miraculous.

She broke out into a smile.

My breath hitched in my throat and I gaped at her.

You like them? I finally asked.

Yes, I like them, she said.

I nodded, a smile slowly taking over my face.

Well, okay then.

I sat there a little longer, enjoying the summer sun and her presence as I watched her work, her body moving the stones, placing them where she wanted them to be.

She looked at me a few times and gave me a small, shy smile. We didn't exchange many words after that, but the silence between us was comfortable, friendly.

Finally, I stood up and said, "I have to go, Minji. My neighbor, Anne, has an appointment and I need to pick up Milly."

Minji stood up as well, wiping her hands on her thighs and nodding.

Thank you , she pointed out.