CHAPTER SIX Hwa-Yeon's Perspective
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     Fragility comes in the form of memories.

     Though, the ones contained within Se-Yeon's room was not owned by myself, however. Everything was paper thin. The furniture, the study notes, the certificates, the clothes, the computer. In some ways, they were in a form of a tissue, and I felt that whenever my eyes flittered across and towards every object within the bedroom, everything would tear into pieces and dissipate.

     I could not bear to be within his room any longer.

     To even think about how my brother had laughed and cried, lived within the room that I was sat in, was just a reminder that he could not do that in the present.

     Fragility comes in the form of the past.

     Physically, every inch of my body had never gone through such unpleasant affliction before. It only worsened when I tried hoisting myself upwards, my lungs feeling as though the could erupt into a blazing inferno. They tried their hardest to steady my breathing, since my exhales and inhales grew irregular after trying to suppress a weeping that was beyond my control.

     My socked feet slipped multiple times on the wooden flooring, as I staggered towards the door, my palms clutching the frame. I leant on it for briefly. Though, I noticed that it would not open all the way. Something blocked the back of the door.

     I stopped, turned around to see what it was. Puzzlement polluted my thoughts as something, or rather a collection filled my sight.

     Cassettes, videotapes lined up all against the wall. They were all VHS tapes, black and grey.

     "1994?" I mouthed in a volume that was almost inaudible, voice-box inflamed from trying to contain my weeps within my throat.

     They never dated before 1994, only afterwards. Beside the years, there were scrawly sentences written in permanent marker along a white strip. Nu-Ri's letter to the future. The beginning of it all; my love and I's history. A light gasp fell from my lips. "Mom?" I questioned no-one in particular, I couldn't think properly, and instead I watched myself pick that tape out.

     It felt cool to the touch, for nothing warm has held it in perhaps years. The thudding of my pulse enhanced in sound once more, though, it reached the walls of the room, and beyond the drums of my ears. My palms were aquiver. I didn't move for two whole minutes, only my pupils did as it flickered across the plastic case. She held this before. My mother.

     I could feel a pounding emerging from my skull, and it started off minutely. Everything was tumbling in at once. My brother's room. My mother's tapes. Within the moment, I could not focus on either, let alone my own breathing.

     I could only follow what I desired, from within, despite the fact that there was a voice in the rear of my mind, pleading for me to stop.

     I still held onto the plastic VHS cassette as I rushed into the living room, not caring about the fact that I had knocked few over, and they crashed onto the rug like dominoes.

Petrichor stained the air, and it diffused into the living room through the billowing lace curtains. The transparent fabric was long, so it flowed before the television, but not long enough to touch it. It poured and poured outside, and I thought, almost, how coincidental it all was. On any other day I would have thought about the kitten I met that day, but I was about to tackle my own storm. I was sure that the kitten was perhaps struggling under the downpour too.

Within the glass doors of the cabinet below the television was the machine used to play VHS tapes. I paused. Had I really garnered all the strength within the last five days for this very moment? If I had known that I would end up in that situation, of not only entering my brother's room, but also digging into my mother's past, I would have prepared myself long ago. It had all been too swift. One occurrence after the other.

I let my eyes stare into the dark abyss of the television screen.

Once again, I was met with my very own reflection.

I had been so serene within that bus to Seoul. Although I still had my previous tangles of thoughts within my mind, I wasn't so out of it like how I was when I was in front of the television. In the past, I had been someone in her girlhood. Someone who made all the wrong choices. Someone who was at loss, and the childhood innocence she used to have was long buried.

But as I looked at myself in the television screen, I almost did not recognise myself.

Fragility was in the form of myself.

I re-directed my gaze onto the VHS videotape within my hands, and pressed messily at the machine. The mouth of it opened, inviting the VHS videotape into its world. Welcoming me to the past. I locked it into place, and before I could jab at any more buttons, it took it in.

The very first tape. The numbers 19941129 appeared in the right hand corner.

"Is this working now?— Oh!— Dad, dad come look!"

     All of the sounds outside: the winds, the trees fighting against the rain, dustbins falling onto the pavement, cars honking along the roads— All subsided, the world seeming as though it were going through a haze. I didn't move, only the tears to my eyes did.

     My focus was solely on the screen.

     I think she was about seventeen or eighteen years old. There was an opal woollen bobble hat on her head, with two pigtails flowing from underneath them. With rosy cheeks, flushed from the cold, she waved a cotton gloved hand to the camera. I always wondered who I got my double eyelids from. Neither my aunt or my brother had them, but my mother did. I saw them then, as I looked at the video, and her eyes arched into two crescent moons when my grandfather, Do-Gyung, entered the scene. I matched her expression, lips morphing into a yearning smile.

     "Oh well done Nu-Ri! . . . Woah!— It really does work— My daughter is so clever!"

     I could recognise the background easily. It was the bit of private land behind the block of apartments, and they were under that majestic maple tree. But, of course, instead of foliage, it was coated with snow, like chocolate yule log cakes sprinkled with sugar and flour.

     "That's because I'm your daughter." Nu-Ri earned a gentle push on the shoulder. She nearly toppled into the grass, but there was nothing but fondness within her eyes. "It's true!"

     "Rightly said!" His smile was as bright as the snow, "remember what I always say . . . At first if you don't succeed you—"

     "Try and try again!" They chorused.

     Grandpa ruffled her hair by moving a palm on her woollen hat. "Exactly!— Now, let's see shall we? Want to test it out?"

"Mhm!"

They both faced the camera lenses, as they recorded for the future. It felt surreal that I was the audience they intended to film it for. But, I was the only one sitting in the living room. Any other soul was either in the form of a photograph, or within the videotapes. The past. I could already feel myself being pulled into it, to that world. The past.

"Hello future me!" All cheery, if the recording wasn't pixelated and a bit fuzzy, you could make out the glimmer within her eyes. The determination to reach out to the future. Her future self.

"Hello future me?" Grandpa asked with a hearty chuckle.

"Yeah!" She trapped her bottom lip under her top teeth, words fuelled with excitement. "I'll make videos all the time. So that my future self can look back. Cool, right dad? Hellloooooo futuree meeeee!"

"Well, I guess it sort of does. Like a time capsule. But a video log!"

She was not there to answer herself. So I did instead. "Hey mom," my voice croaked. She waved back, even though there was a delay, signifying the barrier between us. I pulled my knees closer towards my chest, my chin rested on top, as if I could conserve the heat within me, but all I felt was cold.

Her voice was warm. "Yeah exactly dad! I wonder if this will make me famous— What if I forget about all this and I give up on recording? . . . Dad, dad—"

     There was a dark fluffy cat snuggling its chin into my grandpa's shin. Arching around its nose was white fur, alike the kitten I met just an hour before. If only I had taken that kitten with me, so that it could see that there are other cats in the area too. Similar ones to it, and I had a feeling that the cat beside my mother was the kitten's parent.

     "Yes Nu-Ri?"

     "If I forget to film one day, will you remind me?"

     "Nu-Ri . . . There is no way you'll forget—"

     She jutted her lower lip. "Promise though? I'll never forgive myself if I stop. It'll be such a waste! Think about it, when it turns into the year 2000, the world will probably end. Theeen, years later scientists will uncover stuff from humanity, just like how they did with the dinosaurs. Imagine they find these tapes? I would be so famous!"

     "Famous? What's so good about being famous?"

     "Well . . ." Picking handfuls of snow, then letting it fall between her fingers, she tilted her head towards the tree. "I can get rich, buy myself lots and lots of cats to accompany Dooly."

     Another chuckle accompanied that statement, as my grandfather reached for Dooly the cat's body and held it within his arms. "Well . . . I think Dooly and I can agree, that, you don't need money to buy more friends and family. Is that right? Dooly?" It purred comfortably within his jacket. "As long as we're grateful for each other, we can all be happy."

     "Dad!"

     "Yes Nu-Ri?"

     "That was way too cheesy!" He watched as his daughter aimed a compressed ball of snow at his arm, but she missed and flung it towards Dooly's leg. "Sorry Dooly!" With snow flying from her gloves and into her hair, her hands flew to her mouth that was agape.

     "Oh no . . . That wasn't very nice of her is it? Is it Dooly? Nope, we can't have that . . . I guess that calls for a . . ."

She was backing away, in fits of giggles behind her gloved palms. "Snowball fight?" I can faintly hear her say.

"Snowball fight!"

Before I could process it all, Dooly was set to the ground, her paws imprinting against the snow as she tried to escape the scene. Molecules of snow sprayed across the screen, from the heel of my grandpa's shoe. The camcorder was pushed towards the side, but far enough to see the scene.

Though the audio sounded as though it were being buried by heaps of snow, I could make out her squeals and their disharmonies of laughter echoing around the garden. Snowballs to the left, snowballs to the right, snowballs to the centre. My grandfather, and my mother at the age of seventeen, right before me, and for a moment, it felt as though I were witnessing it all, in the snow.

A baby pink button nose covered the frame. Dooly sniffed at the lenses, puzzled at the technology before it. A prickling chill glided across my arms. But when Dooly found a way to end the videotape, I was then reminded that I was not cold from the Winter of 1994, but the winds from the present.

It was past the afternoon.

Yet, I was still within the apartment. Time was working beyond my favour once again— fragility was in the form of time. I noticed, that time went by slowly in the present, but swiftly on videotapes. I had been looking at dozens by now, maybe even over fifteen days worth of memories.

     I found my emotions being lifted, no longer resonating with the dull weather outside. The videotapes made me forget. It made me forget that I was in the living room that housed past memories. It benumbed the suffocating feelings, and the strong weeping that I was trying so hard to keep in. Really, I felt as though I were creating memories all at once, the cassette videotapes being my source.

     Until, all that I was thankful for, was for the present, but for all the wrong reasons.

     I never once thought of that, though, and soon, I forgot about Seoul and the small, pleasant memories that I made. I began to replace them with the overwhelmingly great memories that my mother produced.

MEMORY 19941215

NU-RI IS INSIDE HER CLASSROOM. CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS WERE ADORNED ACROSS EACH SIDE OF THE ROOM. THE FAIRY-LIGHTS DANCED WITHIN HER EYES AS SHE SPOKE.

CLASSMATE 1
What are you filming? . . . No way!— Is that one of those camcorders or something? My Uncle bought one of those yesterday! (He pointed his finger into the viewfinder)

NU-RI
Yeah! I had this for a while now— Originally, my dad wouldn't let me bring it to school. But, I promised him that I would do the laundry forever if I ever broke it. So he let me, in the end. (She wriggled into her chair, a smug grin plastered across her face)

CLASSMATE 1
Woah, I respect that Nu-Ri!

YE-NA (FRIEND)
Yeah, yeah, back off she's mine now.

NU-RI
Ye-Na! Heeey, look say hello to the future, I'm making another log.

YE-NA
No way! I knew you could convince him. Oh!— (Startled, as NU-RI zooms in on her face) Noo! I have my hair roller in-uh!— Anyways . . . Hello . . .

NU-RI
Future!

YE-NA
Nu-Ri I love you, but I'm not saying that.

NU-RI
Say it or else I'll tell Chin-Hae you like hi— (Her sentence is muffled due to YE-NA's hand on her mouth)

YE-NA
Shhhhh!! I told you not to say that out loud. Ever. In school!! What if he sees this video?!

NU-RI
Yeah when you guys are married— (YE-NA stuffs some crisps into NU-RI's mouth) Mmm, BBQ chicken!

YE-NA
Swear you'll never say that again, and I'll say your stupid sentence.

NU-RI
I solemnly swear (She salutes at YE-NA)

YE-NA
. . . Okay then, here I say your stupid sentence— Hello future. There, now onto you and Ha-Joo—

HA-JOON (CLASS PRESIDENT)
Park Nu-Ri is that a camcorder I see? (NU-RI remained silent) That's so cool, you know, you should try out for the broadcasting club. We need someone who knows how to use camcorders. I'm guilty of not knowing how, if I'm being honest. (He laughs nervously whilst rubbing his palms together. NU-RI watches, still silent) But remember to put that away whenever Professor Lee sees it. If not, I'll cover for you.

(The prolonged silence continued)

YE-NA
Hellooo? Earth to Nu-Ri?!

NU-RI
(NU-RI sat up immediately) Oh Ha-Joon, yes, I will, thank you. And uh, thank you.

HA-JOON
(With a cunning smile, fingers tapping mindlessly on the table in front of NU-RI, he turned to go, but found his eyes on her again) So I'll see you in broadcasting club?

NU-RI
(She forgets to answer)

YE-NA
(YE-NA digs her foot into NU-RI'S shoe)

NU-RI
(Stands up abruptly, causing HA-JOON to recoil, startled) I'll see you!

HA-JOON
Oh, oh okay! Perfect. (He doesn't realise it, but he's doing a double take again) I'll see you, then. (Class is about to start, and he's using it as an excuse to hide his growing grin, as he makes his way towards his seat. The column next to NU-RI three seats ahead of her)

NU-RI
(NU-RI is still stood up, eyes still set on him. He feels her gaze, scratches the back of his neck and looks at her through his peripherals) Yes, I'll see you Jeong Ha-Joon!

MEMORY 19941217 (PART 1)

IN THE SUPERMARKET, 'BABY IT'S COLD OUTSIDE' IS PLAYING AS THE GLASS AUTOMATIC DOORS SWISH OPEN. NU-RI IS PUSHING A SHOPPING CART WITH THE CAMCORDER ON THE CHILD'S SEAT. SHE CATCHES UP TO HER MOTHER WHO GETS HER OWN CART.

IL-HWA
Slow down, I'm getting dizzy!

NU-RI
Sorry mommy. I'm just so excited— What should I do? Do roly-polies? Cartwheel into the scene and call dibs on absolutely everything? (She let's go of the shopping cart, and starts doing star jumps and stretches)

IL-HWA
(She chuckles at her daughter) Do everything you can my dear, but please, at least spare the other aunties a chance. The most they can probably get is one orange and two apples!

NU-RI
(NU-RI's jaw hangs open, stares at her mother as though to say 'are you serious?) Noooo, they're brutal. Every year. One time I was lucky enough to come home with all my limbs! (She leans in, hand covering one side to her mouth, whispering) I swear the Christmas market sale brings out the inner beast within them—

IL-HWA
(She shoves her daughter's arm scornfully) Don't talk about your elders like that! (But she chuckles, nodding briefly) But I have to say, you're not wrong. Just get what you can— When does it start again?— (IL-HWA looks up and her daughter is already making a beeline towards the sale that was yet to commence. Or so they thought. She checks her watch) Oh dear . . . it has already started—

(The camcorder shook as NU-RI raced towards the entrance of the sale, causing the footage to appear blurry, and only consisting of NU-RI's busy expression. But, when she arrives, there is already a commotion)

NU-RI
How great . . . (NU-RI was about to roll up her sleeves. Someone in the crowd causes her to stop. Instead, she surveys the scene and does not enter)

AUNTIE 1
You give me that!

AUNTIE 2
I was here first! These are basically the bane of my shop's existence!

AUNTIE 3
Well you all back off because they are the bane of MY existence.

(They are fighting over a packet of glass noodles)

AUNTIE 2
Yeah, as if you've got long.

AUNTIE 3
I beg your pardon?!?

BOY
I apologise Aunties, but I'm going to have to take thi— (A boy in a dark blue hoodie is alone, and away from the others as he gets his fingers on a packet of 5 oranges)

AUNTIE 4
How dare you? Has anyone ever taught you manners? This is mine.

BOY
(The boy is flabbergasted. Unsure of how AUNTIE 4 managed to get there before him) But— But I found it! Finders keepers! Pardon my manners.

AUNTIE 4
(AUNTIE 4 looks like she's about to faint) Youngsters these days . . . Look here boy, I have four grandchildren who loves oranges . . . Now if you don't give me these—

BOY
Well . . . Well. I, love oranges with my life! So, therefore this is mine— Never mind about my manners—

AUNTIE 4
(AUNTIE 4 leans back into AUNTIE 5, multiple aunties catch her as she half faints) Oh!—

BOY
Oh!— I didn't mean to make you— (BOY murmurs to himself. Then he freezes. Oranges roll around the floor. His gaze found NU-RI, who witnessed the whole ordeal from afar)

NU-RI
Ha-Joon! (She hopes that he doesn't hear the waver in her voice. But she is smiling like crazy) You beat me to the sale. (She sighs heavily, feigning sadness) I really wanted those yoghurt drinks. Guess I'll be having second thoughts on broadcasting club . . .

(Subtly, she manoeuvres her camcorder and the lenses are directed on HA-JOON. He stands up straight, completely abandoning the oranges and the scene. It was as though it never happened. Well he hoped it seemed that way)

HA-JOON
Nu-Ri— I— Uh— Look, my mom dragged me into this. And I was just trying to rightfully claim those— (he forgets what he was trying to get earlier, fingers pointing repetitively to the war behind him)

NU-RI
Oranges?

HA-JOON
Right . . . Oranges. (He's stuffing his hands into his pocket. Then takes them out again, palms smoothing out the front of his jeans. He's unsure of where to look as he feels awkward, his cheeks pinch red)

NU-RI
(She's laughing, and she doesn't hide it. That pulls his attention back on to her. He never drags his eyes away) Well, are you going to get them? Or what?

HA-JOON
(It takes him a moment to answer) Hm?

NU-RI
The oranges, are you going to get them?

HA-JOON
Oh!— Oh the oranges— Uh . . . No it's okay, the aunties really want their oranges . . . So I'll— Uh— Just give it to them.

NU-RI
Are you sure? . . . Becauuuuse, you seemed pretty desperate to have them . . . Mr 'I love oranges with my life!' (She mocks him and holds up her palms jokingly)

HA-JOON
That's not what I said . . .

NU-RI
Hmmm sureeeee . . . It was definitely what you said . . .

IL-HWA
Nu-Ri? What are you doing over here? Why are your hands empty? Last year you came home with dozens of items!—

NU-RI
Oh!— (Taking the camcorder into her hands, she closed the viewfinder, but is still recording) Mommy I'm about to go in, don't worry, how have you finished with shopping already?— (She's whispering harshly)

IL-HWA
By talking to a boy?— I came over here to check on you! To check that you haven't broken any limbs—

NU-RI
It's the aunties you should be worrying about. Not me!

HA-JOON
Hello Mrs Park! I'm Nu-Ri's class president. It's nice to meet you!

(The camcorder is directed at NU-RI's face, and she's tilting her head at HA-JOON, confused at the whole interaction)

IL-HWA
(Taken aback, IL-HWA's hand is being shaken by a random boy in her daughter's class. Both NU-RI and IL-HWA share a look, eyebrows raised, surprised by the formality) Well . . . It's nice to meet you too.

HA-JOON
There's no need to worry about Nu-Ri. I picked these up for her, I remembered that she sprained her ankle during Physics Ed on Thursday. So, I decided to jump in and help. (He places some items that he managed to get from the sale into NU-RI's cart) Well I'll need to get going, I have some Chemistry homework to catch up on. It was—

IL-HWA
What's your name?

HA-JOON
(He laughs awkwardly at the sudden question. But he does not leave and answers politely) Jeong Ha-Joon.

IL-HWA
(IL-HWA's eyes light up slightly) Oh! Ha-Joon! Right!

HA-JOON
S— Sorry, have we met befo—

IL-HWA
Well my Nu-Ri always tells me all about you—

NU-RI
Your scores in English. Oh how I wish I could reach that high! (NU-RI grows awfully giggly, her words came through gritted teeth)

HA-JOON
Oh, but Nu-Ri . . . You were the one that scored the mos—

IL-HWA
(She stands in front of her daughter, and begins to interrogate the poor boy) MBTI? Blood type?

HA-JOON
Zero

IL-HWA
Hobbies?

HA-JOON
Playing the piano and poetry. I'm looking to study politics when I go to College.

(IL-HWA liked the answers very much. IL-HWA liked it so much that it was very much evident in her expression, still, she stayed skeptical about the situation)

NU-RI
Cute.

(HA-JOON is looking at her now. NU-RI doesn't notice)

HA-JOON
Well it was lovely talking to you Mrs. Park—

IL-HWA
Oh, no, no call me Il-Hwa—

HA-JOON
(He laughs) I hope I picked out the right items for you from the sale. (He gives her a swift nod and is shaking her hand again. NU-RI's hand is already held before her for him to shake. Slowly, he takes it. He's still holding her hand, even though he can see the camcorder pointing at him under her right arm) I'll see you at school?

NU-RI
Yeah! Still debating about broadcasting club though.

HA-JOON
(He's staring at her, at her smile) I hope to see you there. (He let's go of her hand, waves at IL-HWA and then he's gone)

IL-HWA
So how come I never knew about your sprained ankle . . .

MEMORY 19941217 (PART 2)

NU-RI IS IN HER ROOM. THE WALLS ARE A FRESH WHITE, LIKE DAISIES. POLAROIDS SCATTER ACROSS THE WALL BEHIND HER, ALONG WITH TORN PICTURES OF FAMOUS MALE ACTORS FROM MAGAZINES. SHE'S IN HER TEDDY BEAR PYJAMAS, GLASSES ON, WITH A GIGANTIC SMILE. THE CAMCORDER IS RECORDING HER AS SHE POURS OUT HER FLUTTERY FEELINGS.

NU-RI
(She's chuckling to herself, eyes dreamy, the yellow lamp on her desk is twinkling within her eyes) Jeong Ha-Joon . . . Jeong Ha-Joon . . .

He was so heroic! 'There's no need to worry about Nu-Ri.' (She places two fists on her hips, as though she was re-enacting the scene at the supermarket. She then places her palms together and claps, still smiling, but then her eyes find her viewfinder. Her mouth turns into a frown) Oh but why did mommy have to ruin it?! That was so embarrassing! (She's covering her face with her hands) And, he was being so kind . . . He probably thinks I like him now!

But what if he doesn't? (She gasps and is smiling again, pink blooms across her cheeks) I never knew he wanted to go to college and study politics . . . Now . . . I like him even more! Oh this is really bad . . . But I can't help but think how coincidental everything was! . . . At least the Universe doesn't hate me thaaaat much. (She's tapping at her chin with a glittery pen with a cute clay bear on top of the pen) Ha-Joon . . .

THE CAMCORDER CUTS OFF AND SWITCHES TO A DIFFERENT SCENE. NU-RI IS STILL IN HER ROOM, HOWEVER SHE IS KICKING HER FEET IN THE AIR, BACK ON HER BED. SHE IS SEEN IN THE CORNER OF THE SCREEN. HER DESK CLOCK READS: 9:30PM.

NU-RI
Jeong Ha-Joon, Jeong Ha-Joon, Jeong Ha-Joon . . . I like him so much. But, I don't know if he returns those feelings. What should I do?

SEUNG-WAN (AT FIVE YEARS)
Ha-Joon . . . I love you . . . Ha-Joon I want to marry you! (She's in fits of giggles, finding her sister's crush hilarious)

NU-RI
(A heart shaped pillow is flung across the screen, and slams at NU-RI's closed bedroom door) Shut UUUUP!

SEUNG-WAN
(She cries) MOMMY NU-RI TOLD ME TO S WORD AND U WORD.

IL-HWA
Be nice to each other! (IL-HWA calls from the living room, the television sounds muffled in NU-RI's room)

NU-RI
(NU-RI rushes towards the camcorder and brings it towards her bed, where she flops back down onto her pillows again) I know! (Her pupils are enlarged, filled with ideas and excitement) I call it, 'Operation orange!' It'll commence on Monday. Our last week of school!

MEMORY 19941219

YE-NA IS LOOKING OUT FOR A PARTICULAR SIX FOOT BOY OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM. NU-RI IS PICKING OUT SOME NOTES FROM HER OLD PURSE, THAT WAS IN THE SHAPE OF A PIG, ONE EAR WAS MISSING. THE NOTES WERE HAND-WRITTEN. SHE FINALLY PICKS ONE OUT AND GETS A SMILEY FACE STICKER AND STICKS IT ON THE ORANGE ON HER DESK.

YE-NA
Okay so, run through this plan once more? I want to celebrate your genius idea with you again. But I also want to flip a table! Enough with the suspense already! Just tell him you like him right now— (YU-RI's mouth is covered by NU-RI's hand)

NU-RI
That defeats the purpose of this plan! And who said I liked him?

YE-NA
(YE-NA rolls her eyes, and points to her mouth when NU-RI doesn't remove her hand immediately)

NU-RI
Sorry— (She almost sulks)

YE-NA
Okay . . . So, for both the future and I's sake (YE-NA zooms in on NU-RI's face, who's eyes were wide as saucers, both filled with hope and eagerness) What on Earth is going on right now? Why did you stick a paper on top of an orange? Is this girl obsessed with oranges? Or is it for a special someone? Why did she do that? Is she okay?—

NU-RI
(NU-RI looks upwards as though to re-scan those questions so that she could answer them) We are going to start 'Operation Orange' . . . For 'Operation Orange' . . . Not originally . . . Yes . . . I'll get into it . . . And yes, I am.

YE-NA
Hmmm no, absolutely not about the last answer. This girl is not okay.

NU-RI
I so am!

YE-NA
Sure, sure. This girl made a whole operation based around some fallen oranges— Which is actually very smart but very frustrating. Why are you doing this Nu-Ri? Why are you not going to tell him you like him directly, and go about with this 'Operation orange' plan?

NU-RI
(Without taking a breath, she rushed) Basically, I iverheard him say that he really liked oranges, whilst he fought a grandma. He then saw me, and he never picked those fallen oranges up. Then, he met my mom and told her that he liked poetry. So last night I came up with a plan. It's called 'Operation orange!' Since he likes oranges AND poetry, I'm going to write him a line of poetry on a piece of paper, and stick it on top of an orange. I'll place an orange on his desk every day until the end of the week. Now, everyone knows that he likes oranges—

YE-NA
I for one, did not.

NU-RI
Well . . . (NU-RI stutters) Neither did I . . . But— But, who cares!— So, he'll probably be like, 'oh who's this secret admirer?' Theeen, he'll go to the mystery writer. The person he thinks that wrote these messages. The person he hopes for. The person he likes . . . That way, I'll find out if he reciprocates my feelings, or if he likes someone else!

YE-NA
Wow—

NU-RI
Amazing, right?

YE-NA
Well . . . I guess so— I guess we can all live with the suspense for a bit.

(Some students rush in from playing football or being outside for break, they return to their seats. NU-RI almost frowns when she does not see HA-JOON. But, then, with his bold strides, he starts making his way down the corridor)

NU-RI
Quick!— Quick— Sit down!

(NU-RI drags YE-NA to their seats, the camera pointed towards HA-JOON's desk, half-closed to make it look as though it was shut off)

HA-JOON
(NU-RI's the first person he waves at, before he is pre-occupied with trying to make his way over towards his seat without tripping over, since, he saw the green dots of light flashing on the camcorder on her table. He places his textbook in the compartment under his desk. He pauses, hands finding an orange) Strange . . . (His eyes flicker behind him, to NU-RI. But she's not looking back)

NU-RI
He's looking over, isn't he? (YE-NA scribbles a note and NU-RI reads it: yup) Dang it. (YE-NA writes again: isn't that what you want?) Yeah . . . But what if the plan doesn't work? (YE-NA, again: you are the dumbest person I have ever met)

MEMORY 19941220

NU-RI IS WATCHING FROM AFAR AS HA-JOON READS THE NOTE FROM THE SECOND ORANGE THAT HE RECEIVED IN THAT WEEK. WHEN HE LOOKS AROUND SHE QUICKLY HIDES, BEFORE RUSHING TOWARDS THE BROADCASTING ROOM. HA-JOON ENTERS THE BROADCASTING ROOM WITH AN AVOIDANT GAZE, HANDS WITHIN HIS POCKETS. HIS TIE IS DONE LOOSELY AS THOUGH HE DID IT MINDLESSLY IN THE MORNING.

HAN-EUL (FRIEND)
Yo Ha-Joon! What are the plans for today? Should we start off the broadcast with a Christmas song playing? Someone got back to me the other day and said that it was really fun.

HA-JOON
(HA-JOON dismisses the question by waving his palm in front of him. He then runs a hand through his hair. It is half unruly) Uh yes, let's do that. Or . . . Yeah, let's do that.

HAN-EUL
Okay . . . Cool! . . . (There is a concerned look upon their face as they watch HA-JOON fumble with the lenses cover on the school's camcorder)

NU-RI
Here, let me help. (NURI's next to him now, her own camcorder hanging around her neck and is filming subtly. HA-JOON draws a sharp breath. His hands pull back to his sides as though the school's camcorder was an infectious disease)

HA-JOON
Uh, thanks— Thank you. (He pretends to be busy with finding a pencil. But, when he finds one, he is unsure of what to do with it)

NU-RI
There's no need to feel awkward, I've completely forgotten about Sunday. (NU-RI makes a zipping gesture over his closed lips. HA-JOON blinks quickly, his breath hot above her hand, before she does the same thing over her own mouth) We don't have to speak about it, ever again, if that makes you happy.

HA-JOON
(He can't help but smile as he lifts up NU-RI's camcorder straps with a finger and plays with them briefly) Yeah, I'd like that.

(CLASSMATE 3 clears their throat, slicing the air between HA-JOON and NU-RI)

CLASSMATE 3
It's nearly time for first period. Professor Lee is putting on a Christmas movie for Eng Lit class, so I suggest we get a move on. I don't want to miss a second.

HA-JOON
Right, yes— (HA-JOON claps loudly, which not only startles everyone but also himself. He faces CLASSMATE 3 quickly, still dazed from his interaction with NU-RI) That's true, I wouldn't (HA-JOON turns to face NU-RI again. He has to turn away again, when NU-RI sends him another smile) — I wouldn't miss that.

CLASSMATE 3
Okay . . . Glad we're on the same page.

CLASSMATE 4
I created the script last night. You can have a run through it if you'd like? (They hand it over to HA-JOON. HA-JOON stares at the words for a while. His mind keeps replaying everything that he found it hard to process anything) So? Good or not good? I hope it's not bad.

HAN-EUL
I think we should let Nu-Ri read it, as a celebration for her first broadcast with us. (CLASSMATE 2 stares at HA-JOON through narrowed eyes, sensing the change in his behaviour) Right Ha-Joon?

HA-JOON
Yeah, yeah I think we should. Good idea Han-Eul. (HA-JOON could not concentrate on HAN-EUL's words, he was too busy fixing this camcorder and avoiding NU-RI's gaze)

HAN-EUL
Thanks dude.

HA-JOON
Yeah good stuff.

HAN-EUL
Goo— Good stuff? (There was no point in asking what was up, when he knew what the answer was) Right, yeah, good stuff.

NU-RI ENTERS THE SOUNDPROOF BOX AND SPINS ON THE CHAIR SEVERAL TIMES, A SATISFIED SMILE IS SPARKLING ON HER FACE. NU-RI TAPS THE MIC A COUPLE OF TIMES. HAN-EUL SIGNALS THAT IT'S OKAY. SHE CLEARS HER THROAT AND GLOSSES OVER THE SCRIPT WITH HER EYES ONE LAST TIME. THEN SHE BEGINS TO READ. HA-JOON IS STILL 'SETTING UP'

NU-RI
Goooood morning everyone, hope you're not all caught up with the snow! With the lovely snow falling outside, today marks the official start of the holidays!

(HA-JOON's attention is no longer pre-occupied, NU-RI and NU-RI only beholds his sight)

Have you got any plans?— No, don't tell me, we can't let our Professors know that we're completely abandoning our studies, because, we're not righhht? (Students can be heard laughing within their classrooms) Aannyways, remember your coats and scarfs! The holidays will be extremely snowy. And, even though we have a few days left of school, let's keep working hard, as well as having fun during this festive season at Saebom High School!

(HA-JOON and NU-RI are glancing at each other now, smiles as pure as the snow outside. The broadcasting team have risen from their seats, applauding)

MEMORY 19941221 (Part 1)

HA-JOON IS WALKING CAUTIOUSLY DOWN THE CORRIDOR. FOR A FEW DAYS NOW, NU-RI HAS BEEN APPEARING FROM OUT OF NOWHERE WITH YE-NA. SOMETIMES THEY CONVERSE LOUDLY ABOUT THEIR MUSIC LESSONS OR ENGLISH LESSONS. HE WOULD OVER HEAR AS IT SPARKS HIS INTEREST.

HE DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO CARE FOR HIS HAIR THIS MORNING, SO HE TRIES TO TIDY UP HIS DISHEVELED HAIR AS HE MAKES HIS WAY TOWARDS THE LIBRARY. BUT NU-RI IS THERE, WHERE HE USUALLY SITS.

HA-JOON
Nu-Ri?

LIBRARIAN
Shhhhhh!

HA-JOON
Sorry Miss. (HA-JOON dips his head down low sheepishly, flashing the LIBRARIAN a small smile. He awaits for NU-RI's answer, but when he is left with none, he realises that she was falling asleep behind a book. He chuckles as he hears her light snores amongst the great silence of the library)

HA-JOON
What is she reading? (He checks. The page is opened to some poetry. He chuckles softly) Word of the wind by Mah Chonggi? (It was his favourite poet. But he almost frowns at a thought) The oranges . . . (His smile slowly fades when he sees her stir, and he hastily backs away, and tries to leave the library as quick as he can)

NU-RI
(Nu-Ri throws the book half way across the table and sits up abruptly) I'm awake!

LIBRARIAN
Okay everybody on the front tables get out. No talking or eating in the library!

MEMORY 19941221 (Part 2)

NU-RI IS TALKING TO HER CAMCORDER AS SHE WATCHES THE RAIN ON THE FRONTS STEPS TO THE SCHOOL. PETRICHOR IS IN THE AIR AND CONDENSATION FLOWS FROM HER MOUTH AS SHE SPEAKS.

NU-RI
Hello future . . . (She speaks drowsily) I am so tired! We had double maths today and all I could worry about was the rain outside. I would cry about how I might have to walk in it . . . But for now, I'll worry about sleeping accidentally on the steps here.

(NU-RI leans her chin against her palm, her scarf unravelling slightly. She almost sneezes) It's so cold. I hope the mommy's flowers are still alive at the shop. (NU-RI sits up as she explains) You see . . . When it rains, people rarely visit mommy's flower shop. But more people go to dad's noodle restaurant instead. So I guess that's something to be happy about.

CLASSMATE 5
(A classmate runs down the steps whilst saying goodbye) Bye Nu-Ri!

NU-RI
Oh! Byeee! See you tomorrow!

CLASSMATE 5
Bye!

NU-RI
Future, I feel like the rain will stay like this for a while . . . I guess it won't hurt to take a small nap . . . (She yawns) I'll awake soon . . .

MINUTES PASS AND NU-RI IS STILL HOLDING ON TO HER CAM-CORDER WHILST SLEEPING ON THE SCHOOL ENTRANCE STEPS. THE RAIN GROWS LIGHTER, HOWEVER, IT IS STILL PELTING DOWN. A FIGURE ARRIVES FROM BEHIND HER. IT'S HA-JOON.

HA-JOON
. . . Nu-Ri, sleeping again? (He chuckles over her slumped figure, but then sighs at the rain) Sleeping during english, during maths and even now . . . You haven't changed since middle school.

(HA-JOON then sits down next to her, thinking that maybe it would be okay to wait for her to wake up. He looks at her again. In the camcorder's viewfinder, you can see him study the way her flyaway hairs flow against the slow current of the wind) . . . And of course you have no umbrella.

(He freezes when he sees the lights on the camcorder flash and NU-RI almost drops it during her sleep) Oh!— Gotcha. (He chuckles softly, the camcorder is within his fingers now. He faces the lenses) Hello . . . future? (He's seen her film with YE-NA before, and countless of times before that. So it only seemed fitting to say that. Since he was in broadcasting club, coming up with things to say, on the spot, was natural to him) Hmmm . . . It's a rainy day. But, I like it— I like the rain, only for today.

NU-RI
Me too.

HA-JOON
(HA-JOON almost drops the camcorder) You're awake—

NU-RI
(NU-RI grins, cheeks flushed from the cold, and still pressed against her palm. She's looking towards him now) I am.

HA-JOON
(He gives her the camcorder gingerly, before sitting up, umbrella in his hands) Here, I don't need it anymore. You can keep it. (Before NU-RI can protest, he hands her the umbrella. He rushes into the pouring rain, with his rucksack on top of his head)

NU-RI
— I'll see you tomorrow then, Ha-Joon. Thank you! (NU-RI calls out as he waves a palm in the distance)

MEMORY 19941222 (Part 1)

HA-JOON IS READING THE POEM ON THE FOURTH ORANGE HE'S RECEIVED THAT WEEK. HE KNOWS WHAT THE POEM IS ABOUT, BUT HE CANNOT WRAP HIS HEAD AROUND IT. HE NEEDS A SECOND OPINION.

HA-JOON
Ji-Na? Can I talk to you for a bit?

JI-NA (VICE CLASS PRESIDENT)
Yeah sure. But don't forget, I'll never forgive the fact that you left me with Professor Cho last week—

HA-JOON
Yes, yes I'll never do that again. But, I had a reason—

JI-NA
You were at some poet's meet and greet—

HA-JOON
It was Kim Hye-Soon!— And Well— Well the Professors don't know that—

JI-NA
I will never. Ever. Forgive you.

HA-JOON
I wouldn't either. I mean, that guy is ruder than Professor Do. Which is much, much worse—

JI-NA
Yeah, yeah exactly!— Anyways, enough about that sad, sad time. What was it that you wanted to ask me about?

HA-JOON
(He hands over the slip of paper with poetry on it, his hand still clutching his orange) This. What does it mean?

JI-NA
I thought you were an expert on poetry.

HA-JOON
Yeah— But— I just need to know. Poetry is ambiguous.

JI-NA
(JI-NA almost laughs out loud, she's pouting at the words on the page) This is sweet. Did someone send this to you? (She eyes the orange) Hang on . . . (Her eyes shifts towards the desk by the door, in the back, where two students usually sit. Realisation hits her) Ohhhhh! (She murmurs) Park Nu-Ri you romantic girl.

HA-JOON
Huh? (He wants JI-NA to repeat, for he has no idea what is muttering about) What does it mean? I need to know.

JI-NA
That's for you to figure out. But, all I can say is that they like you. Like a lot. (JI-NA hugs him) Happy for you.

HA-JOON
(He pushes her away politely) Well I don't know who wrote it to me yet. Thank you for the translation to the poem, by the way. . . (He doesn't finish his sentence, as he sees NU-RI rush out of the classroom, causing a ruckus as she accidentally runs into a student as she does so)

MEMORY 19941222 (PART 2)

NU-RI AND YE-NA ARE SITTING AT THE BACK OF THE LIBRARY. THEIR BACKS AGAINST THE SHELVES. NU-RI IS CRYING INTO HER HANDS AS YE-NA RUBS HER BACK.

YE-NA
It just doesn't make any sense— Professor Lee gave you a lower rank this year? But you worked your socks off for the finals— I'll go now actually, I'll go tell Professor Lee he's got it all wro—

NU-RI
(She pulls YE-NA down by the wrist. YE-NA sits back down reluctantly as NU-RI hugs her hand) I'm not sad about that, don't worry Ye-Na. (She hiccups)

YE-NA
Don't tell me . . . It's Ha-Joon? Isn't it? I'll go kill hi— (YU-RI is being made to sit back down again. This time she crouches incase she really needed to go and attack someone)

NU-RI
(NU-RI goes silent for a second, and YE-NA fears that it might really be HA-JOON's fault) It's my— My mom. Our cat turned out to be a girl. She gave birth to six kittens. Three were already— Already dead— And one of them has gone missing— I wanted to, to um keep them all— But my mom wants to give them away. And, our cat is gone too—

YE-NA
(YE-NA sighs and sits back down and pats NU-RI's head whilst letting NU-RI use her shoulder for her to cry into) Dang it, I can't even kill your mom, I love her. (NU-RI sniffles and tries to snuggle her head into YE-NA's shoulder but, she jumps when YE-NA jolts with an idea in her mind)

NU-RI
Oh—

YE-NA
I'll think of something! I have some ideas, but trust me okay? (NU-RI is still crying, which causes YE-NA to frown) Why are you still cry—

NU-RI
(NU-RI hugs her) Thank you Ye-Na! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

YE-NA
(YE-NA sinks into the embrace) It's okay Nu-Ri (NU-RI doesn't let go and whimpers when YE-NA tries to nudge her away) Okay, okay now—

(There is a thud. They both look to the right and a book has fallen off the shelf. Someone must have pushed it over by accident. But, no-one retrieves it)

NU-RI AND YE-NA ARE LATE TO THEIR FIRST CLASS. YE-NA DOES MOST OF THE SPEAKING. WHEN THEY SIT DOWN, HA-JOON IS STILL STARING AT NU-RI.

MEMORY 19941223 (PART 1)

NU-RI AND YE-NA ARE STOOD IN FRONT OF THE DOORS TO SAEBOM HIGH SCHOOL. THERE IS SNOW POURING DOWN IN FRONT OF THEM, EVERYTHING IS A HEAVENLY SIGHT. THE SCHOOL TERM HAS OFFICIALLY ENDED FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

NU-RI
(Waving at the lenses, her nose is pinched red from the cold) Hello futureeee! School finally ended today and I'm so excited! My mom said she'll get us some gingerbread house kits to make after school today!

YE-NA
Yeah, hopefully this takes your mind off of everything Nu-Ri . . . We're going to have a sleepover and everything it's going to be super, super fun! (They both squeal as they start to walk to NU-RI's house, which is not too far) Let's go to the convenience store though, I want to decorate mine with extra gum drops and candies.

(Walking with arms linked, NU-RI shivers as her scarf keeps unravelling, but she dismisses it. They arrive at GS25, both of their expressions are filled with glee as they rush to the candy aisle. NU-RI picks out an ice-cream too, never minding the weather. She always ate vanilla ice-cream regardless the weather. The camcorder is still recording, however, is hanging around her neck. She almost jumps when she hears HA-JOON's voice from behind her)

HA-JOON
Nu-Ri? (He's calling out her name, because he isn't sure if it's her or not. It's happened multiple times that day, and each girl was not NU-RI. He chooses to ignore them. It wasn't like NU-RI wanted to talk to him anyways. It felt as though she were ignoring him lately. He gets ready to pay and leave, but he stops when NU-RI speaks)

NU-RI
Ha-Joon! (Her voice doesn't waver, but she is acting far more different than usual. Ha-Joon can see that.)

HA-JOON
Nu-Ri . . . (He nearly puffs out his lips. He did not expect her to speak to him) I've been needing to talk to you!— You weren't at broadcasting club today. Or yesterday. I was just wondering if you were alright? I've been having a bit of trouble with the camcorder lately. (The tone to his sentence sounded blunt, which was the opposite of what he intended. His is riddled with guilt when her lovely smile turns into a slight frown)

NU-RI
(She laughs awkwardly, avoiding his gaze) I'm really sorry about that. Something came up yesterday, and I slept in this morning, so that was why I was late to school. Ye-Na and I also had a sleepover so that's why we both came in late. I promise it won't happen again.

HA-JOON
(HA-JOON is frowning, because he was so sure that he saw YE-NA come out of her father's car in the morning. He even overheard YE-NA and NU-RI's conversation at the library. What puzzled him the most, was that her smile didn't quite reach her eyes. He knew that something was wrong. HA-JOON steps closer) You don't have to apologise, I'm just glad that you're okay—

HAN-EUL
Ha-Joon let's go to a different store. There's this annoying girl that took all the gum drops— And apparently there's none left in the back of the store. Now I'm hungry and mad let's go, go, go—

YE-NA
Excuse you. I have a name you know, we've been in the same class since forever!— If you really wanted some, you could have asked rather than sulking and calling me annoying.

HAN-EUL
I'll sulk if I want to sulk.

YE-NA
How mature of you. (YE-NA sounds bored) If you wanted them so bad, then, here. (She shoves one towards his chest)

HAN-EUL
(He shoves it back) Nope, I don't want it anymore. (He almost laughs when he sees YE-NA's face droop)

NU-RI
(Whilst HAN-EUL and YE-NA are bickering, NU-RI gives HA-JOON a sheepish grin and takes a step back) So what were you saying again?

YE-NA
Come on Nu-Ri, let's go. I can't stand this loser.

HAN-EUL
Speak for yourself.

NU-RI
(She turns to HA-JOON again, but her mind is still elsewhere) Come again?

HA-JOON
(He forces a smile) Never mind, Merry Christmas Nu-Ri.

MEMORY 19941223 (PART 3)

THE KITCHEN ISLAND TABLE IS FILLED WITH DOZENS OF CANDY PACKETS AND TREATS. THE TWO GIRLS LAUGH OVER THEIR LOPSIDED GINGERBREAD HOUSES.

YE-NA
Let's combine them and make them into mansions! (YE-NA zooms in on the two edible buildings, the camcorder shook within her hands as she laughed)

NU-RI
Good idea! I think we should add gingerbread men too. I think my mom bought some— MOMMY!—

IL-HWA
YES DARLING?

NU-RI
DID YOU BUY ANY GINGERBREAD MEN?

IL-HWA
WHAT? I CAN'T HEAR YOU, COME UPSTAIRS.

NU-RI
(NU-RI groans) I SAID—

DO-GYUNG
Check the drawers, or ask your sister, I gave her some today. Stop shouting! (He called from the living room)

NU-RI
OKAY. (She finalises whilst YE-NA covers her ears from all the yelling. NU-RI checks the drawers, only to find empty packets) SEUNG-WAN!!!! (Her young sister is hiding behind the door frame, crumbs litter her cheeks and around her mouth) Did you eat all the gingerbread men?! (SEUNG-WAN runs upstairs) SEUNG-WAN—

YE-NA
Nu-Ri I have a confession to make . . .

NU-RI
What?! (She closes her eyes and apologises for snapping at her so suddenly) Yes?

YE-NA
I also ate the last gingerbread man.

NU-RI
Ye-Na!

YE-NA
But I saved a packet of gum drops! (She rips open the packet and offers her a raspberry flavoured gum drop) Gum drop?

NU-RI
Fine. (She mumbles as she takes the gum drop and eats it)

YE-NA
(YE-NA laughs as she zooms the camcorder onto NU-RI's face) Let's not use gingerbread men. That's boring. Let's just continue decorating.

NU-RI
(NU-RI let's go of the gingerbread men scenario and picks up a green piping bag) Okay, I'll work on the garden. Do you like the flowers? I used little Peach Heart Gummies.

YE-NA
I'm getting a toothache just looking at this, but I love it!— (The two giggle. YE-NA sighs) Taking all the gum drops was so worth it—

NU-RI
Oh yeah!— I've never seen Han-Eul that annoyed before, it was kind of satisfying, seeing him that angry.

YE-NA
I know right?! I'll never forget middle school Physical Ed . . . I can't believe he threw a ball at me without apologising!

NU-RI
To be fair, we were playing bench ball—

YE-NA
Nu-Ri! Don't switch sides now.

NU-RI
Okay, okay. Don't worry, I'm still on your side!

YE-NA
Anyways, enough about that stupid boy. How about you and Ha-Joon? What did you guys talk about? Did he go to you about the oranges?

NU-RI
(NU-RI stops decorating, and re-directs the camcorder so that it doesn't face her) He didn't come to me for that. He just wondered where I was in the morning.

YE-NA
So how do you feel about it? (YE-NA also stops decorating. She can see the tears stinging at NU-RI's eyes, but she treads cautiously around the topic, not knowing how NU-RI would approach this situation)

NU-RI
Well, I saw him and Ji-Na talk and they hugged. He had the orange in his hand, so, I guess, it's not me that he likes. (She goes really quiet) But, I'm over it. I don't care. When I carried out 'Operation Orange' I knew that there was a possibility that this would happen anyways.

YE-NA
(She hugs her) Oh Nu-Ri, you'll be okay. Look, let's just continue decorating and have fun. (She hands NU-RI another gum drop and a piping bag. They both carry on. YE-NA clears her throat, knowing what could cheer them both up) I got into the women's national basket ball team in Seoul.

NU-RI
(NU-RI takes the camcorder into her hands and starts squealing, it shakes as they both start jumping up and down) YE-NA!!!! That's amazing! I know you would get in— I mean, you're basically Tina Thompson but better!

YE-NA
No, Tina Thompson is beyond phenomenal— But!— I'm just kind of excited, you know? I can be a part-time student at college, and practise for tournaments with my team. How cool is that?

NU-RI
I'm so happy for you Ye-Na!! (They embrace for a long time) I'm so excited for you too, like, you can travel the world at the same time right? Different tournaments in different countries? Isn't that what you've always wanted?

YE-NA
(YE-NA's eyes glimmer) Yes!!! I really want to compete in Spain. It's not only pretty, but I can always play there at the same time. You need to come with me too, it'll be so fun!—

NU-RI
Yes! I can be your emotional support buddy too. (NU-RI draws stars around the walls of the gingerbread house. The both of them giggle again)

YE-NA
I'll definitely be needing you for that. You should be our mascot too! I don't know, wear a bear or dinosaur suit. Or something.

NU-RI
(She shoves YE-NA lightly, whilst chuckling) Now that's too far—

YE-NA
Okay, okay— What about you Nu-Ri? What do you want to do when you're older? When we were younger you wanted to be a vet. How about now?

NU-RI
(NU-RI thinks, but comes up with nothing) I'm not sure yet.

YE-NA
That's okay. I mean, we have ages till University, so I suppose we don't have to know just yet.

NU-RI
(NU-RI's not looking at the camera anymore. She knows that it isn't true since they were in their last year of high school already. She just smiles) Yeah, that's true.

SEUNG-WAN
Nu-Ri . . . I made you a drawing (It's a squiggly drawing of the sun. They're both on a floating hill, with their hands together, and pink and orange dresses. There's the words 'I'm sory for eting yur gingerbred man' written with rainbow crayon) I'm sorry.

NU-RI
(There's a fond smile on NU-RI's face. She crouches down and wipes as the crumbs on SEUNG-WAN's face) I would usually say I look funny in your drawings, but I actually love this picture. Thank you Seung-Wan.

SEUNG-WAN
(She doesn't care about the drawing, instead she asks NU-RI a question she'd been wanting to ask the entire time) So do you forgive me?

NU-RI
Yes—

SEUNG-WAN
YAY! MOMMY NU-RI FORGAVE ME. CAN I GET MY CANDY-CANE NOW?

NU-RI
(She watches as her little sister runs upstairs, her jaw hung open) DO I GET ONE TOO?

SEUNG-WAN
MOMMY SAID ONLY ME.

NU-RI
AWWW—

SEUNG-WAN
MOMMY CAN NU-RI GET ONE?— YAY MOMMY SAID YES AND YE-NA CAN TOO.

NU-RI
YAY!!! (Both YE-NA and NU-RI cheer into the camcorder and pull funny faces, as they find it hilarious how they are so excited over candy-canes)

MEMORY 19941225

THE PARK FAMILY ARE HAVING THEIR CHRISTMAS DINNER. THERE'S DISHES EVERYWHERE AND EVEN YE-NA'S FAMILY HAS JOINED THEM. THE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTS BOUNCE OFF THE GLASS DINING TABLE. EVERYONE IS HAPPY AND CHEERY WHILST CHRISTMAS SONGS PLAY IN THE BACKGROUND. YE-NA'S COUSIN IS ALSO PLAYING ON THE PIANO. RATHER THAN SNOW, IT IS RAINING OUTSIDE.

IL-HWA
Do take some more! (She pushes some dishes forward) We're already quite full, take some more, take some more!

SANG-AH (YE-NA'S MOTHER)
We are too! You take some too!

NU-RI
(She opens up her camcorder, she's sat next to her young sister and YE-NA) Hey future!! Merry Christmas!—

SEUNG-WAN
(She bears her teeth, her lips pulling into a bright smile) Cheeese!

NU-RI
You silly! It's a video camera not a film camera!

SEUNG-WAN
(She looks like she's about to cry, as she feels everyone stare at her) Mommy Nu-Ri called me silly—

IL-HWA
Nu-Ri I told you not to use the camera over dinner—

JUN-WOO (YE-NA'S FATHER)
Is that the camcorder you were talking about Do-Gyung?

DO-GYUNG
(He perks up and starts talking about it. The fathers beging to discuss about the new technologies and camcorders) Yes! It's quite amazing actually . . .

IL-HWA
I need to check the fridge for desserts— Can't trust that have any I'm afraid, I think we've eaten most of them!—

SANG-HA
That's okay Il-Hwa!— Oh!— I almost forgot! (She rises from her seat to accompany IL-HWA) I think Jun-Woo put the cheesecake into the fridge. We were going to give it to you as a gift, but we didn't want it to melt—

IL-HWA
Ou perfect! (They both head over to the kitchen)

YE-NA
Nu-Ri! Open my present now! (YE-NA takes the camcorder and hands the paper gift bag to NU-RI)

NU-RI
Okay!! You open mine too—

YE-NA
Yes, yes! But mine first (She's excited for her reaction, and is looking behind NU-RI's shoulder repetitively. She's looking at the door)

NU-RI
Here I go (She takes out the gold tissue paper. She stops. There's a frown that dares to take over her lips. But, she plasters a smile on top. Cheeks warming. YE-NA's gifted some cat food) Thank you Ye-Na (NU-RI hugs her) . . . But, Dooly, she's—

YE-NA
Ah, buh, buh— (She puts an index finger in front of NU-RI) Trust me—

IL-HWA
Nu-Ri darling! The nice supermarket boy is outside!— Oh but the poor boy, he's in the pouring rain!— What did he say his name was again? Jun-Ho? Ha . . . Ha-Joo—

YE-NA
It's Ha-Joon!

IL-HWA
Oh yes! That's it! Ha-Joon! Oh but I've spilled some juice all over the kitchen floor— Is it okay to go ask the boy if he wants to have some dinner? It's raining cats and dogs outside and— Oh wait, I think he's leaving!—

BEFORE IL-HWA COULD SAY ANYTHING ELSE, NU-RI BOLTS THROUGH THE FRONT DOOR WITHOUT A COAT. SHE GRABBED THE BORROWED UMBRELLA FROM THE CLOAK HANGER. SHE SHUTS THE DOOR BEHIND HER AND ALMOST TRIPS OVER A CARDBOARD BOX THAT'S IN FRONT OF HER. IT MOVES, QUIET PURRS FOLLOW AFTER.

NU-RI
What's . . . (She gasps softly when she finds a small black and white kitten inside the box. It's eyes are closed, but she recognised the button nose all too well. There's identical black and white patches to the cat she lost a day ago. It's warm within her fingers when she picks it up carefully) Hey there friend!— What are you doing here all alone? (It almost whimpers) It's okay, Nu-Ri sister is here for you, you're not alone anymore!

(There's a hand written note within the box. But it's a poem. A poem by Mah Chonggi:

Rainy Day

As when cloud meets cloud
with a thunderous crash,
so too would I meet you
and cry out, unthinking.

As when cloud collides with cloud
and all the sky lights up at once,
I hope that when I collide with you,
I will see again the path I lost.

The rain's song sweeps high, then low—
I cannot hope to sing along.
But you are dazzling bright
as you tell me what it means:

"The rain must meet the rain
for either to get wet."

NU-RI turns the paper around, and it's just. To Park Nu-Ri, thank you for the oranges. I always had you on my mind. No-one else)

NU-RI LETS THE CAT INSIDE THE HOUSE, BEFORE CLOSING THE DOOR AND RUNS INTO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD. THE RAIN PELTS DOWN ONTO HER SHOULDERS, SOAKING HER HAIR. SHE SCANS THE AREA. SHE RUNS AND RUNS IN EVERY PATH THERE IS. UNTIL SHE FINDS THE FIGURE SHE HOPED TO FIND.

NU-RI
JEONG HA-JOON! (He can't hear her, even though he is just a few steps away, he's walking slowly, head down) YOU'LL GET SICK, GO INSIDE!— (She hurries over, and once she reaches him, she opens up the umbrella. It shades his figure, and he stops walking)

HA-JOON
(He turns around slowly, not quite believing the entire situation. He thought that NU-RI would never forgive him, and reject him. But she didn't. NU-RI was standing right in front of him) . . . Nu-Ri?

NU-RI
Jeong Ha-Joon— Thank you! (She could say so much. But she felt that those words were most fitting)

HA-JOON
(He doesn't say anything. Instead he stops and stares at her for a while, before embracing her wholly) You're all soaked. (He whispers beside her ear whilst playing with a tendril of her hair)

NU-RI
'The rain must meet rain for either to get wet.'

HA-JOON
Huh? (He feels sleepy, and he could fall into a slumber right within her arms)

NU-RI
We're both soaked. Do you know what that means?

HA-JOON
(The entire poem was a metaphor for the collision of people falling in love, so, he knew what that meant. But, he stayed clueless) What does it mean, Nu-Ri?

NU-RI
(She laughs, and he can feel her shoulders shake. He smiles. In the distance, soft piano sounds echo behind them) And I thought you knew everything about poetry . . . It means, that we're both in for it Ha-Joon.

HA-JOON
In for it? (At this point, the umbrella is doing nothing. He smooths out her hair)

NU-RI
Yeah, in for it.

MEMORY 19941231

HA-JOON, NU-RI, YE-NA AND HAN-EUL ARE AT LOTTE WORLD. IL-HWA INSISTED THAT SEUNG-WAN WOULD GO TOO. THE AMUSEMENT PARK LIGHTS SPARKLE ALL AROUND THEM, THEIR EXPRESSIONS AS BRIGHT AS THE VIVID COLOURS ON DISPLAY. THEY'RE PICKING OUT HEADBANDS BEFORE THE GO. NU-RI FILMS IT ALL.

NU-RI
Awww the bunny ears with a carrot— It's so cute! Everything's so cute!!

SEUNG-WAN
I want that one— Can I get that one Nu-Ri?

NU-RI
Oh but I wanted that one!— (She pouts when SEUNG-WAN looks like she's about to cry) Fine you can have that one . . . Oh! This ones much cuter!— Oh I love it!

HAN-EUL
Oh look!! We're matching, see? (They head over towards the mirror and NU-RI zooms in) We're both wearing couple headbands!— You're the angel, I'm the dev—

HA-JOON
Give that to me.

HAN-EUL
But dude, didn't you say it was ugly? You said it was so tacky—

HA-JOON
(He takes it from HA-JOON and over emphasises his adoration for the plastic headband) I love it. It's mine now. You must be hearing things, because I never said that. I love it— Okay? (He then places it on his head. He smiles sheepishly when NU-RI raises her brows, a knowing smile is written across her face)

HAN-EUL
Jeez bro, sorry for my assumption I guess (HAN-EUL picks something else. It's a bear head band, he glances towards YE-NA. She's wearing a honey head band) I guess you have good taste Ye-Na— I know you like me— But matching with me?—

YE-NA
(She shoves him) You are delusional.

HAN-EUL
Me?! No I'm not!!

SEUNG-WAN
Nu-Ri I want to go on the carousel!

NU-RI
Just wait a moment Seung-Wan.

SEUNG-WAN
Why?

NU-RI
Because I need to do something—

SEUNG-WAN
Why do you need to do something?

NU-RI
(She fixes the camcorder strap around her neck) Okay! Let's go!—

THEY RIDE THE CAROUSEL FIRST. THE YELLOW BULBS THAT WHIZZ BY DANCE WITHIN THEIR EYES. HAN-EUL CHOSE TO SIT WITH SEUNG-WAN IN A MOVING BOOTH AS HE GETS MOTION SICK EASILY, AND SEUNG-WAN IS ONLY FIVE. YE-NA IS ON THE HORSE JUST NEXT TO THEM. HA-JOON AND NU-RI ARE NEXT TO EACH OTHER TOO.

SEUNG-WAN
Ye-Na look at me!! I'm faster than you!

YE-NA
No you're not!

SEUNG-WAN
Yes I am!! Aren't we Han-Eul?

HAN-EUL
Yeah we are!! So suck it Ye-Na!

YE-NA
Suck it? (She laughs at his childishness)

SEUNG-WAN
Yeah! Suck it!

NU-RI
Seung-Wan! You shouldn't say that—

SEUNG-WAN
But you said the f word when we were doing homework the other d—

NU-RI
Seung-Wan! (Her little sister starts to giggle)

HA-JOON
Sounds like your sister— (NU-RI shoots daggers at him with her eyes. He laughs whilst offering a hand) Here, do you want me to film instead? You've been carrying it all day. Plus I'm behind you all, so it only makes sense to—

NU-RI
Sure (She replies grumpily)

HA-JOON
Okay! . . . (He slips the strap over his neck and begins to film. He's only filming her. He smiles when she poses with a peace sign and grins. When she laughs, he chuckles. You can hear it strongly within the crispy video) Beautiful.

THEY THEN RIDE THE JOLLY RODGER. NU-RI IS A NATURAL, SHE'S EVEN HOLDING HER ARMS OUT AS THE BOAT SWOOPS DOWNWARDS. BOTH HAN-EUL AND YE-NA SCREAM AS THEY CLUTCH ONTO SEUNG-WAN'S ARMS, WHO IS SITTING IN THE MIDDLE AND YELLING ALONG WITH THEM. HA-JOON IS COVERING HIS EYES AND GROWS PALE. NU-RI HOLDS HIS ARMS DOWN, TELLING HIM TO ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE. WHEN THEY GET OFF. ALL OF THEM EXCEPT FROM NU-RI AND SEUNG-WAN COMPLAIN.

NU-RI
They're all weak, aren't they Seung-Wan?

SEUNG-WAN
(She laughs whilst clutching her stomach, and points at all three of them: HA-JOON, YE-NA AND HAN-EUL) All so weak!!!

NU-RI
High five your sister Seung-Wan!! (They both high five. She goes up to HA-JOON who is clutching onto the bench) Are you okay?

HA-JOON
Yeah— Yeah (He responds weakly)

NU-RI
(She pats his back slowly and smooths out his hoodie, comfortingly) Here, I think I know something that can make you feel better (She holds out her hand. He takes it slowly, giving her a small smile)

THEY ARRIVE AT THE FOOD STALLS AND FOOD STATIONS. ORANGE HUES ILLUMINATE FROM EACH ONE AS THEY NEAR THEM. THE PIQUANT AIR ENTER THEIR NOSES AS YE-NA AND NU-RI WALK THERE WITH ARMS THREADED TOGETHER. SEUNG-WAN IS HOLDING THE CAMCORDER WITH BOTH HANDS AS HA-JOON GUIDES HER TOWARDS THE FOOD STALL. HAN-EUL PULLS FUNNY FACES AT THE CAMERA.

SEUNG-WAN
You're silly Han-Eul! (She is unable to control her laughter)

HAN-EUL
I'm not!!

HA-JOON
Han-Eul is very, very silly you're right Seung-Wan

SEUNG-WAN
Silly, silly Han-Eul!

HAN-EUL
Hey!!!

(NU-RI turns around with some skewers with some fried goods stuck on them. Steam rolls from them as she hands each one to everyone)

NU-RI
Eat up guys, we'll need more energy for later! (She hands three over to HA-JOON) Here, for earlier and for later.

HA-JOON
(A thankful smile is written on his face. He holds on to one of the skewers, but gives NU-RI the other two) You take these, I know you like these the most.

NU-RI
(She chuckles bashfully) Oh! Thank you— How—

HA-JOON
The summer fair we had back in middle school.

NU-RI
That was so long ago how do you—

HA-JOON
(He shrugs quickly) I just do. Wait here, I'll get some cold drinks for everyone.

HE RETURNS WITH A MIXTURE OF DIFFERENT SLUSHIES. SEUNG-WAN SQUEALS WITH JOY WHEN HA-JOON ALSO BOUGHT HER SOME COTTON CANDY. THEY SIT. HAN-EUL, YE-NA AND SEUNG-WAN SIT ON A BENCH BESIDE SOME BUSHES AND THE LARGE ROLLERCOASTER.

SEUNG-WAN
Nu-Ri I want to go on that one!

YE-NA
That's for big kids Seung-Wan! Ha-Joon can go on the little dinosaur ride with you if you want?

SEUNG-WAN
(She hugs YE-NA) I want to go on it with you.

HAN-EUL
Awww— (He feigns being hurt) Now I'm sad!

YE-NA
Us girls stick together yes! High five?

SEUNG-WAN
(She returns the high five) Han-Eul can go with us too—

HAN-EUL
Yeah! Get in there!—

YE-NA
No, No, he is not—

SEUNG-WAN
Sorry Han-Eul but Ye-Na says no—

HAN-EUL
Well you and I say I can so, I guess I ca—

YE-NA
No— Nope—

SEUNG-WAN
YAY!!

HA-JOON AND NU-RI ARE SAT ON A WOODEN LUNCH TABLE AND BENCH. HA-JOON BRINGS OUT TWO STRAWS. NU-RI DOESN'T REALISE THAT THERE IS ONLY ONE DRINK AND TAKES A LARGE SIP FROM HER STRAW. SHE SMILES GLEEFULLY AS THE TASTE OF RASPBERRY FILLS HER SENSES, EVEN SQUEEZING HER EYES AT THE COLDNESS OF IT ALL. HA-JOON QUICKLY PLACES HIS STRAW INTO IT TOO, AND TAKES A SIP. WHEN NU-RI OPENS HER EYES SHE IS TAKEN ABACK, AS SHE FINDS HERSELF STARING INTO HA-JOON'S EYES. HE GRINS WITH THE STRAW STILL IN BETWEEN HIS LIPS.

NU-RI
(She backs away, hiding her face with her palm subtly) Oh you startled me—

HA-JOON
What? Did that makes your heart flutter?

NU-RI
No!— It's because I saw your face so suddenly!—

HA-JOON
Sure Nu-Ri. Sure . . .

NU-RI
It's true!—

HA-JOON
Whatever you say Park Nu-Ri

(But NU-RI does not hear him as she pushes the drink towards him, and she hurries over to sit next to HAN-EUL and YE-NA, whilst picking SEUNG-WAN up to her sit on her lap)

AFTER EATING. THEY ALL RIDE THE MINIATURE DINOSAUR ROLLERCOASTER. THE SUN DIPS LOW AND THE SKY IS VIOLET AND BABY PINK. PEOPLE GATHER IN FRONT OF THE CASTLE OUTSIDE AS FIREWORKS ARE ABOUT TO BE ON DISPLAY.

HA-JOON
Do you have any New Year's resolutions? (Ha-Joon points the camcorder at NU-RI)

NU-RI
I don't know (She chuckles nervously) . . . It's quite a tough question . . . Maybe try to get into college? That's my first resolution.

HA-JOON
(Someone accidentally bumps into NU-RI, and at that he places one arm beside NU-RI. He lights up behind the camera) That sounds so exciting!! Which college do you want to go to? And what do you want to study?

NU-RI
I'm not sure yet . . . But, I would like to go to whichever college you wish to go to (She's not looking at the lenses, but to him)

CROWD
10 . . .

HA-JOON
Where . . . I'm going? (He slowly lowers the camcorder)

CROWD
9 . . .

NU-RI
(She starts to rush, people are counting down to the new year behind her) I want to be with you, Ha-Joon. I like you. I've liked you since forever, and I feel so silly that it took some oranges for me to say this to you—

HA-JOON
It wasn't silly. I liked the whole thing. It was cute.

NU-RI
Really? (Her voice is quiet, only at a volume for him to hear, the distance between them was nonexistent) It wasn't cheesy? Or weird? Were you weirded out?— Because, I totally would be—

HA-JOON
No, not at all. I'm sort of glad. (He's laughing now, his eyes go back and forth between her eyes. He pulls her into an embrace) Thank you, Nu-Ri.

CROWD
5 . . .

NU-RI
(His breath is the only warm thing. As he laughs, his voice rings through her ears. She sinks into his arms) Good.

HA-JOON
But the last days and nights have been the worst.

NU-RI
Why?

HA-JOON
I couldn't stop thinking about you. I usually can, but I couldn't stop my thoughts of you for this past week— And, when you started ignoring me, I thought I was done for. (He can feel her laugh, which only makes his mouth turn into a smile again) What is it?

NU-RI
It's just— Just that was cute. You're cute.

HA-JOON
(He has to close his eyes, as though that could control his overwhelming heartbeat. But it did nothing) Hell Nu-Ri—

CROWD
3 . . .

NU-RI
What?

CROWD
2 . . .

HA-JOON
You're the only one for me.

CROWD
1 . . .

NU-RI
And I you, Ha-Joon.

MEMORY 19950103

NU-RI AND SEUNG-WAN ARE BAKING DIFFERENT SHAPED COOKIES. THE KITCHEN IS DECORATED WITH SUGAR, EVEN BOTH THEIR CHEEKS ARE SPRINKLED WITH BITS OF FLOUR. SEUNG-WAN SQUEALS AGAINS WHEN SHE CUTS OUT A PERFECTLY SHAPED SNOWMAN.

SEUNG-WAN
NU-RI!!! NU-RI LOOK!!!

NU-RI
You're almost as good as a chef than me Seung-Wan! Look at you— (NU-RI rubs away the mess on her little sister's cheeks, but laughs when she realises that she only made it worse)

SEUNG-WAN
Nu-Ri

NU-RI
Hm?

SEUNG-WAN
(She tries to reach for another cookie cutter)

NU-RI
This one? (When SEUNG-WAN nods approvingly, NU-RI hands her the tree cookie cutter)

SEUNG-WAN
Nu-Ri, why do you like Ha-Joon so much?

NU-RI
Well . . . (She chuckles) What's with this question?

SEUNG-WAN
I don't know. You just talk about him too much.

NU-RI
No I don't!

SEUNG-WAN
Yes you do! You go 'Ha-Joon! Ha-Joon! Ha-Joon!'

NU-RI
Fine. Maybe I do. But, I don't need a reason. (She picks at a lump of dough)

SEUNG-WAN
That's a bit boring.

NU-RI
Well, what reason do I need Seung-Wan? How would you know? You're only five— (She squishes one side of Seung-Wan's cheeks)

SEUNG-WAN
I know!!

NU-RI
(She lets go, and watches as SEUNG-WAN feeds her plastic doll with some uncooked cookies) Seung-Wan . . . Don't tell me—

SEUNG-WAN
Don't tell mommy, but I have a boyfriend.

NU-RI
Park Seung-Wan!! A boyfriend? (She pretends to faint)

SEUNG-WAN
Yes!! Don't tell mommy, please?

NU-RI
(She then mimes zipping her mouth shut and throws away the imaginary key) Your secrets safe with me. My little baby sister! With a boyfriend? When and how?!

SEUNG-WAN
I'm not a baby!

NU-RI
Okay, okay—

SEUNG-WAN
I love him because he sat with me for lunch on Monday. He also said he liked my shoes. (She leans in to whisper into NU-RI's ear) We even held hands— (When NU-RI gasps, her eyes widen) Don't tell mommy!

NU-RI
Held hands?!

SEUNG-WAN
Yes. (She giggles with her older sister) Now don't tell mommy.

NU-RI
(NU-RI places a palm on her forehead and salutes) No telling mommy. Got it.

IL-HWA
What are you two giggling about? (She enters with a laundry basket)

BOTH SEUNG-WAN AND NU-RI
Nothing! (They share more giggles and laughter, and return to cutting out more heart and star shaped cookies)

I had no idea what time it was.

Though, the silent bustling of the city outside the balcony, informed me that I was long overdue for my first day at Saebom High School. But, my focus was not on that fact. I could only pay attention to the moving pictures on the crisp, opal filtered videos that my mother filmed.

Chest hollow from my tears, I wept freely, no longer confining them, as the last video drew to an end.

I was left with disbelief, and I muttered: "Don't grow up Park Nu-Ri . . . Jeong Ha-Joon . . . Don't grow up."

Sylvia's note. My oh my everyone that was one heck of a chapter . . . I hope you liked this one? We finally got to see what Hwa-Young's mother was like when she was a little girl. It took forever to write, but it was so fun!! I just love all the clichés in dramas and movies so I incorporated that into Nu-Ri's story!!!

See you guys in the next one! Don't forget to vote and comment <3