When the Clock Strikes|Pi Han Ul x Reader|

(S02) Chapter 1

I shot her a flat look. “Which is exactly what I don’t want to scream.”

Woo Joon chuckled from the doorway. “I think she’s about to run.”

Before I could do just that, Ha-ya suddenly gasped, clutching a dress in her hands. “Wait. This is it.”

She held up a stunning two-piece outfit—a soft pink, asymmetrical halter top paired with a flowing, tiered white maxi skirt. The fabric was lightweight and airy, perfect for a breezy beach night. The pastel pink of the top contrasted beautifully with the creamy white of the skirt, giving it an effortlessly elegant yet relaxed vibe.

Seok Kyung's eyes widened. “Oh, this is perfect for you.”

I hesitated, running my fingers over the delicate fabric. “It’s… not too much?”

“It’s classy, it’s pretty, and it doesn’t scream I’m looking for a date,” Ha-ya said with a knowing smirk. “But it does say I know how to have fun.”

Woo Joon, who had been silent until now, glanced up from his phone and raised an eyebrow. “I can actually see her in that.”

I sighed, giving in. “Fine. I’ll try it.”

Slipping into the fitting room, I quickly changed out of my scrubs and pulled on the outfit. The halter top hugged my torso just right, the asymmetrical cut adding a touch of style without being too revealing. The skirt flowed down to my ankles, moving effortlessly as I shifted.

When I stepped out, Ha-ya practically squealed. “Ye Na, you have to get this.”

Seok Kyung clapped her hands together. “You look like a dream. Seriously, if you don’t buy this, I will.”

Even Woo Joon gave a small nod of approval. “Not bad. Definitely an upgrade from the black top and jeans.”

I rolled my eyes. “You guys act like I dress horribly every day.”

“You dress safe,” Ha-ya corrected. “Tonight, you’re dressing fun.”

I stared at my reflection in the mirror, the colors of the outfit blending perfectly with the idea of a beach party.

Maybe, just this once, I could let go and have a little fun.

With a small smile, I turned to the cashier. “I’ll take it.”
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The cool night air brushed against my skin as we stepped onto the sandy shore, the distant sound of waves crashing blending with the upbeat music blasting from the speakers. Lanterns and fairy lights were strung up between wooden poles, casting a warm golden glow over the crowd. People were scattered across the beach—some dancing near the makeshift DJ booth, others lounging on bean bags or wooden pallets, drinks in hand.

"This is so much better than being stuck in the hospital," Seok Kyung sighed, stretching her arms above her head.

"You say that now, but wait till tomorrow when we have morning rounds," I reminded her, slipping my sandals off to feel the sand beneath my feet.

Ha-ya grabbed my wrist, spinning me around. "No work talk. Tonight is for fun!"

Before I could protest, a group of guys approached us, their easy smiles and sun-kissed skin giving away that they were probably surfers or just regulars at beach parties like this. One of them, tall with slightly messy hair, grinned at me.

"Hey, haven't seen you around before," he said smoothly.

I blinked at him, unimpressed. "Because I haven't been around before."