When the Clock Strikes|Pi Han Ul x Reader|

(S02) Chapter 1

His grin faltered slightly, but he recovered quickly. "Then it's a good thing you're here now. Want a drink?"

"I'm good," I replied without hesitation, already looking away.

Ha-ya, on the other hand, was already laughing at something another guy had said, clearly enjoying the attention. Meanwhile, Seok Kyung shook her head with a small smile.

"Sorry, guys. I have a boyfriend," she said sweetly, holding up her hand like she was showing off an engagement ring.

One of the guys pouted dramatically. "Ouch. Faithful ones are always the hardest to flirt with."

Seok Kyung shrugged playfully. "Loyalty is rare these days."

I snorted, crossing my arms. "So is basic respect."

The guys chuckled, though the one who had initially approached me looked slightly defeated. I wasn’t trying to be rude, but I had zero interest in flirting with strangers.

Just then, Ha-ya linked arms with me. "Alright, Miss Ice Queen, if you won’t flirt, at least dance with me!"

I sighed, but a small smile tugged at my lips. "Fine. But just for a bit."

She squealed, dragging me toward the crowd gathered around the DJ. The music pulsed through the air, the bass vibrating beneath my feet. As the night went on, I let myself relax, swaying to the rhythm, enjoying the salty breeze and the carefree energy surrounding me.

The night stretched on, filled with laughter, music, and the endless sound of waves crashing against the shore. The warm sand beneath our feet made it feel like time had slowed down, allowing us to enjoy the moment without worrying about the responsibilities waiting for us back at the hospital.

After dancing for what felt like hours, we finally stumbled back to a quieter spot near a wooden bar stand, panting and wiping the sweat off our faces.

"Okay, I need a drink," Ha-ya announced, fanning herself dramatically.

Woo Joon, who had joined us somewhere in between the chaos, smirked. "You look like you need five."

"Shut up," she muttered, waving him off before turning to the bartender. "One cocktail, please."

Seok Kyung leaned against the counter, sighing. "I'll take something light."

The bartender turned to me. "And you?"

"Water," I said without hesitation.

Ha-ya groaned, slamming her head against my shoulder. "Ye Na, please, for once in your life, just let loose!"

I rolled my eyes. "Alcohol is bad for your health. You want me to give you a lecture on its effects on the liver?"

Woo Joon snickered. "Oh no, here comes the doctor talk."

Seok Kyung laughed, nudging me. "Come on, one drink won't kill you. Even I drink sometimes."

"And I would like to keep my brain cells intact," I shot back, sipping on my water.

Ha-ya dramatically clutched her heart. "You're too serious for a doctor!"

"I'm literally in medical training. What did you expect?" I deadpanned.

Woo Joon chuckled. "She's got a point."

As they sipped their drinks, I leaned back on the barstool, glancing around. The party was still going strong. A group of people was playing beach volleyball under the lights, others were gathered around a bonfire, sharing stories and laughter. Some couples had wandered closer to the shoreline, walking hand in hand as the waves kissed their feet.