"Another day of school," Na-Rae sighed, eyeing herself in the mirror. Lately, getting ready for school has become a serious challenge. The routine of getting ready for class and just mustering the energy to walk to school felt like a mountain to climb. Despite acing her classes, the whole process of showing up and sitting through them seemed like a major drag.
She stood there, staring at her reflection, a moment of hesitation before she sighed again. "Come on, Na-Rae, you've got this," she muttered to herself, trying to muster some motivation. If some of the boys had heard her by now, they would have thought she was going nuts. "It's just another day. You're acing everything, right?" Her eyes met those in the mirror, seeking assurance.
A glimmer of optimism sparked in her eyes as she reminded herself, that they got P.E today. It was one of the best days out of the week, finally, a chance to throw on that comfy training. The thought of ditching her school skirt for those comfy clothes excited her, and if there was a chance to make that swap, she'd be the first in line.
Things got kinda wobbly at school when they switched up the classes this year. Not sitting with Jungkook in class wasn't the end of the world, but this new girl Minji saw it as an opportunity to be a pain. Most of Na-Rae's friends ended up in different classes, but she was lucky to have Junha still by her side.
Junha wasn't a big talker, but Na-Rae liked having her around. She'd cover for Na-Rae when she couldn't make it to school, share homework updates, and swap notes. Even at lunch, Na-Rae found herself often eating Junha's mom's food, knowing that the girls otherwise ditched lunch break. She even attempted to intervene in the bullying, frequently urging Na-Rae to take action. However, Na-Rae, being stubborn, resisted and made her promise not to say anything at all.
Walking through the bustling hallways of their high school, Na-Rae accompanied by Jungkook greeted friends with smiles that didn't quite reach her eyes. She exchanged a few hugs with friends but, a gnawing uneasiness settled in her stomach.
Na-Rae thought already about what would happen when she took the first step into her class. The routine was predictable, starting with hushed whispers and feigned laughter echoing in her direction. Mocking glances were sure to follow, casting a shadow on her every step. The atmosphere would be tense, and Junha one of her best friends would try to cover for her but wouldn't do anything because Na-Rae asked her to not mingle in her business.
Saying goodbye to her friends, Na-Rae went to her class, hoping Junha would be there. But she knew Junha wouldn't go in first, and besides, she was still sick. The hallway felt quiet as Na-Rae walked to her class, feeling a mix of hope and worry.
Walking into the classroom, Na-Rae immediately spotted the usual group of students who seemed determined to make her life difficult. They snickered and whispered, shooting glaring looks her way as she put her stuff in her locker and grabbed her math book and pencil case.
Trying her best not to roll her eyes and set off Minji, Na-Rae attempted to take her seat. It baffled her why she had become the target of their bullying. She never did anything wrong or even talked to Minji and her followers, who were just classmates a year ago, not minding or talking to her. Na-Rae was always polite, and while she had her stubborn moments, she never hurt anyone.
Getting to her desk was a challenge when Minji decided to stand in front of her. What was Minji up to now? Occasionally, Minji tossed her book on the ground, making a sarcastic show of it. Na-Rae tried to ignore it all, but Minji didn't stop. It even got worse – by pulling her hair and even cutting the sleeve of her t-shirt once.
That evening, Na-Rae had to explain to Jin why her t-shirt had cuts in it. Finding it in the wash like that was no easy thing to explain. So, she came up with a story about a new game in her class, where you had to answer right to a question or otherwise you needed to do a dare. Jin seemed suspicious, but he let it slide, thinking it was just some silly thing kids do these days. It relieved Na-Rae that she got her older member off her back not suspicious of anything.
"Well, look who's alone again... Miss Popular isn't always that popular, huh?" Minji's taunting words rang out, drawing attention to Na-Rae, who found herself at the center of the unwelcome spotlight. The eyes of onlookers flicked towards her, and Na-Rae couldn't help but roll her eyes in response, a reflexive gesture her body betrayed her with, faster than her mind could catch up. She attempted to dismiss Minji by pushing through, but the girl purposefully blocked her path to her seat.
"Can you please let me through?" Na-Rae's request was straightforward, her gaze fixed on the ground.
"Oh, our little idol has a mouth... She can talk?" Minji's mocking tone grated on Na-Rae's nerves. Trying to maintain composure, she attempted to push through once more, but Minji's grip tightened around her wrist, preventing her from escaping. "Na-ah, that's not so polite of Queen Politeness, right?"
As the tension escalated, Na-Rae sensed that today would be a long day. The confrontation had become a spectacle, and even some boys in her class had tried to intervene, standing up to Minji. However, Minji swiftly silenced them with a threat to expose their misbehavior records. Reluctantly, they retreated, leaving Na-Rae to navigate this torment on her own. Great nobody was ready to help her.
With a malicious grin on her face, Minji suddenly seized one of Na-Rae's two braided tails, sending a wave of pain through Na-Rae. Inhaling deeply, Na-Rae tried to disregard the pain, determined not to give Minji satisfaction.
"You can't ignore me, little attention seeker. Do you think you're always number one? Well, looks like Junha has better points this time..." Minji taunted, her words cutting through the air. "Are you going to cry and ask Ms. Baek to upgrade your points now? Or are you going to pay her? Little b*tches like you don't have a conscience, right? I don't even understand what your friends see in you. Even that pathetic singing group of yours cannot grow because you hold them back. You are nothing but a burden for everyone. Your little piece—"
Abruptly, Minji's tirade was interrupted by a voice. Jungkook, who had emptied his backpack, discovered Na-Rae's lunch mixed with his own. Jin, in a morning rush, had likely tossed both lunches into Jungkook's backpack. Aware that Na-Rae sometimes skipped lunch with the group, Jungkook headed toward her class.
As he approached, he heard raised voices and laughter. Pushing through, he was stunned to find Na-Rae being harassed. It took a moment for him to gather himself, "Enough!" Jungkook said his tone firm as he confronted the guys laughing outside the glass door.
"What do you think you're doing?" Jungkook's voice cut through the tension, walking closer to both girls and pulling Na-Rae closer to him. His protective facade made it clear that he was ready to defend her. However, before he could utter a word, Miss Baek, burst into the class.
"Enough!" Miss Baek thundered, frustration evident in her voice. She was a new teacher at the school, a woman in her middle twenties with short, sleek black hair. Her attire was always very neat— a neatly tucked-in blouse paired with a skirt, giving away a sense of professionalism. Her face, marked by a stern expression, had an air of authority that demanded respect, and most students didn't dare to speak against her.
"I will not tolerate any more disruptions in my classroom," she continued, her words firm and unwavering. Miss Baek was in the process of finding her position in the school, trying to establish herself as an educator who wouldn't be taken lightly.
"Mister Jeon, what are you even doing here? This is not your class." Her gaze bore into Jungkook.
"seonsaengnim, they were bothering me" Minji claimed, her voice pretending to tremble. "I asked Na-Rae for help, but she ignored me. Then Jungkook stepped in, and they started shouting. She even tried to pull my hair, but I managed to dodge it." Minji tried to make it sound like she was the one being bullied, telling a story that wasn't true to get sympathy from Miss Baek.
Na-Rae couldn't help but shake her head in disbelief, letting out a low groan. "You can surely act, Minji," she retorted, rolling her eyes. The frustration and sense of betrayal swirled within Na-Rae. It felt like a punch in the gut to see Minji play the victim, especially when actually Na-Rae was the victim in all this. She attempted to back herself up, desperate to make Miss Baek see through Minji's act. Miss Baek noticed Na-Rae's reaction and directed a stern look in her direction. Na-Rae, feeling unfairly targeted, tried to speak up, "But, seonsaengnim—"
Miss Baek cut her off, not allowing any room for explanation. "I don't want to hear what excuses you come up with, but what I know is that both of you have detention."
"Detention?" both Na-Rae and Jungkook echoed in unison, the shock evident in their voices.
"But seonsaengnim—" Jungkook attempted to interject, only to be met with her stern resistance.
"I don't want to hear it," Miss Baek insisted. Her judgment was swift, and she seemed to side with Minji, perhaps swayed by the convincing act Minji put on. The sense of injustice gnawed at Na-Rae as she felt betrayed not only by Minji but also by her teacher.
"If you don't go to your class, and you will not sit down before my lesson starts, I'll give you two days of cleaning detention at lunch," Miss Baek declared, not allowing any room for discussion. The weight of the unfair punishment hung heavily in the air, leaving Na-Rae and Jungkook stunned and frustrated.
Jungkook stole one last glance at Na-Rae, receiving a nod that signaled him to leave. "See you later," she mouthed. As Jungkook walked to his classroom, a mixture of anger and concern welled up within him, leaving him troubled about leaving Na-Rae behind.
On the opposite side of the room, Minji grinned triumphantly at Na-Rae. However, Na-Rae, undeterred by the situation, gave her a disapproving glare as she took her seat at her desk. Minji had crossed a line, and Na-Rae was determined to ensure that Minji would face the consequences of her actions.
As the day unfolded, Jungkook kept a close eye on Na-Rae during lunch, expressing genuine concern for her well-being. Na-Rae, despite the unsettling events, assured him that everything was under control and encouraged him to ease up. The watchful presence of Ms. Baek seemed to deter Minji from further harassment, at least for the moment.
At P.E: The changing room became a battleground when Minji, fueled by her determination to create chaos, attempted to provoke a scene. Unfazed by Minji's antics, Na-Rae, fueled by her newfound determination, firmly pushed Minji aside. The forceful movement caught Minji off guard, causing her to stumble and crash to the ground.
Na-Rae didn't linger on the scene she created. She walked away, leaving the girls behind but before she opened the door, she turned herself around looking how Minji struggled to get up. "Oh and Minji, Don't push me too far. I'm usually polite, but targeting my family is crossing a line. I'm warning you, cease your actions, or things will take a turn for the worse."
Exiting the room, Na-Rae couldn't help but overhear Minji's frustrated outburst. Minji's words spilled out, revealing her hate for Na-Rae and the venom she held within. Undeterred, Na-Rae allowed herself to chuckle, a small but satisfying moment of enjoying the upper hand.
°°°
Detention:
Seated side by side, Jungkook and Na-Rae worked on their homework, but their expressions betrayed a mix of frustration and disappointment. The idea of being punished for something they hadn't committed left them perplexed. The unfairness of it all lingered in the air—bullies getting to go home while victims stayed behind. Was this a new norm?
Meanwhile, Miss Baek, unable to shake off the weight of the day's events, felt a responsibility to involve the parents. Bullying had no place in the school, their families needed to be informed. Determined, she decided to reach out to Jungkook's parents and Na-Rae's guardian, So-Yeon, who was still engrossed in her studies at this hour.
Unfortunately, Jungkook's parents couldn't make it due to their demanding schedules and living in Busan. However, So-Yeon, Na-Rae's older sister, received the call and wasn't pleased to learn about her sister's deeds, and having detention was even worse. Despite her ongoing university classes, So-Yeon immediately made her way to the school, prioritizing her sister over her commitments.
Arriving at the school, So-Yeon entered the teacher's room with an air of professionalism that demanded attention. As a University student herself, she carried herself with a maturity that wasn't seen often at her age. The stern expression on her face spoke volumes about her determination to get to the truth, especially when it came to matters concerning her sister.
She found Miss Baek waiting, and without wasting a moment, So-Yeon addressed her with a calm but assertive tone, "Hello, you must be Miss Baek? I believe there's been a misunderstanding regarding my sister. I need a clear explanation of what happened."
Miss Baek, initially taken aback by So-Yeon's composed yet firm demeanor, began to explain the incident. So-Yeon listened attentively, as the teacher spoke, her stern expression remained, but a subtle concern flickered in her eyes. Na-Rae, her younger sister, wasn't like this. Yes, she could be stubborn and playful, a real handful but bullying? No, she couldn't believe it, Na-Rae didn't even dare to hurt a bug.
"So, let me get this straight," So-Yeon said, her voice steady but carrying an undertone of protective maternal instinct. "A girl accuses Na-Rae of bullying without any evidence, and you've decided to penalize her without even consulting her side of the story?"
Miss Baek, caught off guard again by So-Yeon's strong and assertive response, attempted to explain her perspective. "Ms. Lee, I understand your concern, but your sister's actions today were witnessed by other students, and—"
Cutting her off with a composed but unwavering gaze, So-Yeon continued, "I appreciate your explanation, Miss Baek. However, I believe in fairness, If my sister is accused, she has the right to defend herself. I won't allow her to be punished without a proper investigation into the matter."
The commotion caught the attention of other teachers, prompting even Principal Kim to step out of his office. As So-Yeon continued to express her concerns, her eyes met with the principal's. She had studied at this school 2.5 years ago, and her familiarity with Principal Kim was evident.
"Hello, Principal Kim," she greeted him, shaking his hand.
"Ah, So-Yeon, what a pleasant surprise to see you back here. How can we assist you today?" he asked her.
"I'm not here for myself. I'm here for my sister. If what I heard about today's events is right, I promise, I would take further steps but if my sister is accused, she deserves the right to defend herself. I won't allow her to be punished without hearing her side of the story. It's only fair to hear both sides of a story and now she didn't get the chance to explain her. She might be falsely accused and I don't agree with this."
"I'm not sure about all the details of this situation, but I have a lot of respect for Ms. Baek as a teacher in our school. I believe she must have had reasons for giving detention to your sister. However, it's important to remember that teachers, like everyone else, can make mistakes. So-Yeon, we understand that you are very fond, especially when it comes to Na-Rae, but please don't turn a blind eye just because she's your sister," Principal Kim stated, his expression firm. He directed a pointed look at Ms. Baek, conveying a warning that this situation needed careful handling.
"I appreciate your honesty, Principal Kim," So-Yeon responded with a friendly yet firm tone. "But I must say, I'm not pleased with how this situation has been handled. I find it hard to believe that my sister, would bully anyone. Nonetheless, I'm open to understanding the full picture. I'd like to see her now."
Principal Kim nodded, recognizing So-Yeon's concern and determination to get the truth. He instructed Miss Baek to lead the way to the two teenagers, where they could talk further.
°°°
As the door swung open, Na-Rae and Jungkook turned their heads, expecting to see Ms. Baek. However, when Na-Rae's eyes met So-Yeon's determined gaze, she almost wished Ms. Baek hadn't intervened. The intensity in So-Yeon's eyes seemed capable of setting the entire place on fire, despite Na-Rae's knowledge of her sister's unwavering love. Detention now felt like the end of her freedom.
In a mere two seconds, So-Yeon stood in front of Jungkook and Na-Rae. "What happened?" she asked, her voice carrying both worry and anger. "This isn't the way I taught you about respecting others, you know all too well that bullying is never acceptable" Ms. Baek opened her mouth to speak, but So-Yeon raised her hand, signaling for her to remain silent. "Let them explain," she said firmly. "They deserve to be heard."
Na-Rae took a deep breath and began recounting what happened. She detailed the relentless bullying, the hurtful comments, and the constant feeling of being belittled. She explained that she had reached her breaking point, unable to stay silent any longer, and Jungkook had stepped in, to help her.
Tears welled up in Na-Rae's eyes as she looked at Jungkook. Her voice trembled as she confessed, "I didn't want to burden anyone. I thought I could handle it on my own, but it became too much, and I couldn't fight it any longer. Then you came and it all became worse, because of me you are sitting here, giving up your free hour."
"Why didn't you tell anyone? You never let anyone run over you before," Jungkook said, a mix of frustration and concern evident in his voice.
"I'm the weirdo who lost her mom, right? The one who sings in a boy band and is labeled a sl*t just for living with only boys," Na-Rae added to the list of hurtful comments she had endured in recent weeks, breaking down in tears.
So-Yeon consciously tempered her anger, realizing that the one who had bullied her sister would face consequences. Speaking slowly and tenderly, she enveloped Na-Rae in her arms. "Nara-shi, I understand your desire to handle things on your own, but there are times when you must reach out for help. No one should face these things alone. We're here for you, and we always will be. I lost Mom too, and I'm the 'weirdo' who has your manager as my guardian. He shows up at my dorm with food or snacks sometimes, and everyone thinks he's my brother, boyfriend, or even my father who cannot let go of his baby girl. I'm the one who sits alone in the atrium because I'm the 'nerd.' We're all different but in a good way. I'm fully supportive of you being part of that 'boy band' that isn't a boy band. They have you, and you're not a boy. They cherish you as a true sister, so don't let others bring you down. They're just jealous of what you have and wish they had it too."
Miss Baek, in meanwhile felt sorry for how she misunderstood things and treated the two young students. "I want to say sorry for not seeing the bullying you were going through," she said. "I'm sorry for not letting you share your concerns and not listening when you wanted to explain things to me. I promise you that Minji and the other girls will face consequences from different teachers and our principal. I'm very sorry to both of you, and I hope you can find it in your hearts to accept my apology." she bowed in front of the three.
"I've voiced my concerns about this school, earlier. The bullying was going on for weeks, seemingly unnoticed by the teachers. While I believe this is a great school, if bullying persists so easily, I think you need to take decisive action against it. There are always two sides to every situation. I trust you'll investigate this matter thoroughly and make sure it doesn't happen again." So-Yeon stated, slinging her sister's bag over her shoulder. "Can we be excused now?" She gently urged Jungkook and Na-Rae to head toward the door.
"I appreciate your concerns, Miss Lee, and I agree that bullying is a serious issue that requires our immediate attention. I will ensure that the teachers are more proactive in preventing and addressing bullying incidents. I apologize for any distress caused, and I'm genuinely sorry for my oversight. You're free to leave, and I wish you a pleasant evening farther." Miss Baek responded, a tinge of shame evident on her face as they left.
After leaving the school, Jungkook grinned proudly and slung his arm around So-Yeon. "Noona, you're a le-gend! You put Miss Baek in her place; she won't dare to cross you ever again. The way you spoke to her, even my mom would say "So-Yeon-ah, slow down, you're spitting out fire!". You're going to be a top advocate."
"Jungkook-ah, hands off!" So-Yeon exclaimed, prompting Na-Rae to crack a slight smile. Jungkook pressed his lips together, wisely taking his arm off her. "You two better make sure I never skip class again, or my legendary advocacy skills might disappear," So-Yeon playfully warned, turning her head now towards Na-Rae "And what about you? Lost your tongue?" she asked
A hint of worry adorned Na-Rae's face. "Are you not angry with me?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.
So-Yeon shook her head, a faint smile gracing her lips. "No, I'm not angry. I'm just maybe a bit disappointed that you didn't come to me or someone else for help. I understand your reasons, but you must promise me that if anyone ever lays a finger on you or is unkind to you, you'll let me know. I'll personally take care of the matter. Nobody touches my little sister; I don't care who they are. Nobody lays a finger on you! Understand?"
Na-Rae nodded in agreement, but her stomach growled loudly, reminding her that she had skipped lunch and was now starving. "Alright, I promise," she said, a mischievous smile forming on her face. "You know, there's one more thing you can help me with." So-Yeon looked at her, sensing that it might not be entirely innocent. "Could you buy Jungkook and me some ice cream to make up for our rough day at school?"
So-Yeon laughed, relieved to see Na-Rae's spirits lifting. "Fine," she said, playfully rolling her eyes. "Ice cream it is, but remember only if you promise me now to remember. Communication is the key. We are here for you, always." She turned her gaze toward Jungkook. "Same goes for you, Jungkook-ah. You're both the same age, and it can happen to you as well. Protect each other just like you always do. I know you two can be a pair of stubborn kids together, but I have no doubt you'll do anything to make each other happy."
As they strolled down the street, enjoying their ice cream, So-Yeon began to wonder. "Now that I think about it, don't you two have like... any extra lessons? Like vocal classes or dance classes?"
"Yes, our vocal class started 20 minutes ago," Jungkook replied, glancing at his watch.
So-Yeon raised an eyebrow. "And you two don't plan to go? Aren't those classes important?"
Na-Rae shrugged her shoulders. "Well, they are, but we're already so late that being extra late won't make much of a difference. They will only let us stay longer, we are used to this now. Jungkook sent already a message to our coach." With her ice cream in her hand, she strolled further down the street with Jungkook, leaving a dumfounded So-Yeon behind.
So-Yeon shook her head, struggling to comprehend what she had just heard. "Those kids," she mumbled to herself, both amused and puzzled by their carefree attitude.
_______
A/N:l absolutely love So-Yeon's character, and I realize I don't give her enough page time (yeah, yeah, I'm aware this is my second chapter in two days about sister relationships.) She's a master at putting people in their place, and her love for Na-Rae is HUGE. We all know where Na-Rae gets her sassy attitude from! Let's love and cheer for So-Yeon! Sorry for any typos or errors; I'm a bit tired but still wanted to update. It feels like it's been ages since I last posted in the past two weeks.