If Only...

Part Two

“Jeonhee!” my mom called out.

“You were great dear, even if you didn’t win. I am still so proud of you. Asano you too, both of you did so well.” She uttered trying to lift our spirits as she locked us in an embrace.

Well, as I have said I am all about the experience, so the results weren’t that depressing for me. Asano is also a good sport, she will be alright.

“Let’s get home mom.” I suggested.

“Aren’t you going to congratulate Yunho?” she asked.

“No, need.”

“We need to leave.” I bid good-bye to her, “Say hi to your mom for me.”

“Sure. I’ll see you in dance practice.” She giggled.

“Of course, dance practice…” I chuckled. 

“Take care.” Asano stated as she waved her hand.

We exchanged bows, “Ja matane! (See you soon)” I ended and then we walked away.

As we exited the hall, I could still hear jolly laughter. I wanted to look back but I stopped myself… I can no longer make myself fall harder for a man that sees me only as his friend.

Congratulations anyway Yunho… Omedetou gozaimasu. Chuk ha hae.

~*~*~*~*~

Falling in love with my best friend… How stupid of me. I have been hiding this from him, for the simple reason that I don’t want to ruin our friendship. I know it sounds very much cliché but I’m not that person who is risky enough to actually tell him the truth. Yunho and I have been friends since elementary, all those years of companionship might shatter with just three famous words, ‘I love you’.

I lay still on the soft green grass, the gentle breeze brushing my face and the rays of the sun stinging my exposed skin. The rustling of the leaves sounded in the air, as well as the chirping of the birds, cheerful laughs of the passersby and the loud horns of the cars from afar. Another summer day…

I never heard from Yunho after the contest. I wonder what happened. Although, I am just trying to look at the Brightside, at least it will take my mind off him for a while. Think about other things, like uh… I don’t know what exactly but I’ll come up with something. A new hobby perhaps?

I gradually opened my eyes just to find out it was dusk. I need to get home.

I stood up and hopped off the grass area and began striding out the park. Out of the blue my phone started vibrating in my jean’s left pocket. I fetched it out, “Maybe it is my mom.” I assumed.

I glanced at the small screen and saw Yunho calling. I actually flinched for a moment there. Days have passed and he decides to call me just now, I mean… he is not obliged to but he should at least let me know he is still breathing. Right?

I took in a deep breath and answered his call, “Yobasaeyo? (Hello)”

“Jeonhee… it’s me Yunho.” He sounded gloomy, “Are you at the park right now?” he asked.

“Well, kinda. I’m walking out the park actually.” I answered.

“Please stay where you are, I’ll find you. I need to tell you something.” He hurriedly stated.

Before I could reply he hung up. I wonder what’s wrong. My heart started pounding hard. What if he already found out about my true feelings? If so, that’s not good.

I scratched my head in confusion and looked for a vacant park bench to sit on. A few seconds of wandering about, I finally was able to settle on a seat. I know he told me stay where I was but this seat was just a few steps away.