Prologue

My heartbeat quickened, and I could not hide my crooked smile as I saw the string of alphabets that progressively appeared on the screen.

In all honesty, I have never felt that much joy and excitement in my entire life. My cheeks started to burn as I repeatedly read the six words in incredulity.

The adrenaline that was pulsing through my veins gave me the false belief of nirvana. I was floating in heaven’s reign.

Mockingly, the cold hard truth of the situation struck me with so much force that it felt like I was jolted off a plane and plummeting through the skies at the speed of light, finally crashing into a large concrete boulder of reality.

Truth be told, I never thought I could feel two extreme emotions at once.  

I was torn.

Chapter 1

It was the weekend. I was lazing in bed whilst reading my favourite manga when I heard my chat message notification beep.

I jumped out of bed and scrambled to my computer. I clicked on the orange flashing tab that read ‘IcePrinc3ss’.

We met in a chat room a week ago and I chose to chat to her because of her interesting nickname. IcePrinc3ss, who knew that I would have enjoyed chatting to her?

I have always been a private person although I needed an outlet at times. Somehow, chatting to a random unknown person on the internet without revealing my identity was the perfect solution; or so it seemed.

***

I had just woken up from my afternoon nap and immediately switched on my computer.

I logged on and I saw that ‘Drag0nBz’ was online. We started chatting a week ago.

Despite the fact that we did not know each other’s names or identities, we hit it off the moment we had our first conversation.

We came to an agreement that we should just pour our hearts out to each other and keep the relationship simple by always keeping our identities secret; it was pretty much the only secret we had between us.

Half of me was curious about the person’s identity, while the other half was apprehensive as I did not want to ruin what we had.

As our conversations with each other grew deeper, so did my curiosity.

There was this alluring charm that Drag0nBz gave off, it was weird. Soon it became an incessant need to switch on my computer, just so I can engage in the kind of profound conversations we share.

Somehow, all that everyone around me does nowadays is to obsess and talk about some nine girl group, or to read some kind of cheesy fan fiction online. When will these people ever learn to read real books and have real conversations?

I truly wonder.

Chapter 2

As the lecturer wrapped up the last bit of today’s lesson, I turned to my close friend Tiffany while trying to stifle a yawn, “Tiff, I swear that was the LONGEST and most dreary lecture I’ve ever attended … ”

Tiffany returned a smile and whispered, “Jess, Not if you have an eye candy who is seated less than 2 metres away from you.”

With that, my tired eyes sparkled as I shot Tiffany a questioning look.

Before I could open my mouth, Tiffany grabbed her bag and dashed off with the obvious intent of avoiding the question that was about to follow her statement.

“Tiff come on! Stop it with the suspense.” I groaned.

Tiffany stuck her tongue out at me and continued running through the door at the front of the room.

She was always full of energy and this tired me out quite a bit. I was the exact opposite and one of my favourite past time was sleeping.

Despite our differences, we have always been close friends all our lives.

Tiffany and I have practically known each other since we were young .We used to be neighbours back in the United States.

We are both Korean, who have been living in America since birth. I moved back to Korea when I was 14 and Tiffany only returned recently.

I picked up my bag and started going after her. I clumsily bumped into another student and her lecture notes flew into a messy pile on the ground.

I hastily picked up her notes for her and shoved the pile of paper into her hands before bowing in apology and making for the door at the same time.

Tiffany is SO dead for making me look like an idiot on the second day of school.

***

I stood up and was about to walk out of the classroom when someone collided into me. The force of the impact scattered the notes I held in my hands.

I looked up to see a petite girl with blonde shoulder length hair looking apologetically at me.

She picked up my notes haphazardly and thrust it in my hands before bowing apologetically and running for the door all at once.

I just smiled politely at her.

I started organising my notes as the girl beside me turned and said, “Wow those two girls sure were in a hurry to get out of this boring lecture.”

I laughed and replied, “Indeed.”

She stuck her hand out, “Hi my name is Kwon Yuri, nice to meet you.”

“I’m Taeyeon, Kim Taeyeon. It is nice meeting you too.”

With that, I made my first friend in university.

Chapter 3

Tiffany’s Perspective

I ran out of the lecture hall and I saw Jessica giving me the ‘Not again Tiffany!’ look.

I stuck out my tongue at her and continued running out the door. I was only just five steps out the door when I saw a guy barely one foot away from me. I tried to stop myself from running into him, and I would have succeeded! That was if he was not staring elsewhere intently. I braced myself for the impact as our bodies crashed into each other. I ended up with my bottom on the ground whilst my bag flew in another direction.

The guy that I collided into turned and started apologising continuously.

“GDragon that’s what you get when all you do is stare at Yoona all day long.” His friend turned to him and teased.

The guy named GDragon helped me up whilst I heard a familiar voice.

“Tiff, that’s what you get for running ALL the time.”

I turned and Jessica smugly handed me my bag.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

I stepped out the lecture hall just in time to see this cute guy apologising to Tiffany repeatedly.

I picked Tiffany’s bag up as I heard the cute guy’s friend say, “GDragon that’s what you get when all you do is stare at Yoona all day long.”

When I heard that name, my heart skipped a beat. Could it be him? I quickly pushed that thought aside and walked over to Tiffany.

“Tiff, that’s what you get for running ALL the time.” I smugly commented as I handed Tiffany her bag.

At the same time I saw two figures walk by looking in our direction. It was the girl that I bumped into earlier on accompanied by a girl with dark flowing hair.

I felt my face heat up slightly. Now our classmates would think of us as the clumsy duo.

I was about to turn to GDragon to thank him for helping Tiffany up when…Wait a minute, did Tiffany just blush?

  Chapter 4

Tiffany’s Perspective

I looked up and I saw my eye candy walk past.

No way! How unlucky can I get! Now she’s going to think I’m a clumsy mess!

I was fuming inside.

I grabbed Jessica’s hands and stormed off whilst screaming, “Watch where you’re going next time airhead!”

***

Jessica’s Perspective

Tiffany grabbed my hands and dragged me alongside.

I was in a total state of confusion.

Tiffany was blushing? Does she like GDragon? But her outburst. No, No.. It doesn’t make sense one single bit. What else could it be. Who in the world is her eye candy anyway.

A sudden jerk broke my train of thoughts. Tiffany had just jerked me to a stop when we arrived at the Food Canteen.

Before I could open my mouth and ask her what in the world was going on today, she lowered her voice in excitement and discreetly turned me in a specific direction “Look my eye candy is standing right there. I am bent on getting to know her. Jessica you have SO got to help me on this one. She so totally makes my heart flutter!”

I paused for a moment, and looked around.

I don’t seem to see any cute guys standing in that direction. All I saw were two girls standing in front of the spicy rice cake stall.

Hang on! Did Tiffany just say SHE totally makes my heart flutter? Dang! Now it all makes sense.

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

I looked at Jessica, waiting for a reaction or a reply of any sort.

“Earth calling Jessie, Earth calling Jessie. Hellooo. Knock knock are you there?”

She was still displaying a look of confusion, when it suddenly turned into a look of realization.

She turned to me with her eyebrows raised, “So your eye candy is a girl?”

I replied, “Yes Jess. You don’t have a problem with that do you?”

Jessica and I were close friends since young, but I haven’t gotten the chance to really talk to Jessica about my sexual preferences yet. I recently just arrived in Korea. After six years of not seeing each other, Jessica and I were still close, but of course we had loads of catching up to do.

I held my breath while waiting for Jessica to say something.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

For the slightest moment I was in shock. Not in a bad way of course. It was just that everything came too quickly for me to react.

I realised Tiffany was still looking at me and waiting for a reply.

“Oh don’t be silly Tiff. Even though I don’t swing that way, I wouldn’t judge you one bit. You will always be my close friend. Stop shocking me with random stuff though. I’m having SO much trouble keeping up with you sometimes.”

Tiffany smiled at me with her lovely eye smiles and gave me a cute Salute, “Yes Jessica!”

Both our laughter ensued.

A sudden thought crossed my mind. I seized Tiffany’s hands and started dragging her towards the Spicy rice cake stall.

  Chapter 5

Tiffany’s Perspective

My blood pulsed through my veins as Jessica dragged me towards the most attractive girl I’ve seen so far.

I could feel my face redden and my heartbeat accelerate with every step we took towards her.

“Jess what in the world do you think you’re doing!” I said in an urgent whisper.

All that came out from Jessica’s mouth as she tightened her grip around my wrist was, “Trust me on this one Tiffany.”

***

Taeyeon’s Perspective

Yuri and I were standing in front of the spicy rice cake stall deciding whether or not to eat before heading home.

I looked to the side and I saw the petite blonde girl from earlier walking towards me. She started waving.

Was she waving at me? Am I mistaken?

I looked around. There was no one but myself and Yuri standing there. I returned a smile.

There was this inexplicable feeling I had when I looked at her. There was this odd tingling feeling in my chest.

I could not explain it and I have never felt it before.

***

Yuri’s Perspective

Wow those two attractive girls are walking in our direction. It must be my lucky day. I thought.

The blonde girl waved to Taeyeon.

Ok so she’s interested in Taeyeon. I’ll have the other one then. They are both equally attractive anyway.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

I strutted confidently towards the pair standing in front of the spicy rice cake stall.

I smiled and waved to the short dorky girl that I bumped into earlier on. She smiled back.

“Hi my name is Jessica and this is my friend Tiffany. I’m so sorry about earlier on. Can my friend here treat you to spicy rice cakes? If not for her all that chaos would not have occurred.”

The girl with flowing black hair exclaimed “Hi my name is Yuri. It is nice to meet the both of you. Do I get some spicy rice cakes too!”

“Sure why not since it’s Tiffany’s treat!” I realised I didn’t know exactly which girl was Tiffany’s eye candy yet.

“Hi my name is Taeyeon, nice to meet the both of you. I’ll take up the offer then, since I’m starving!”

Both of them had their own appeal. Yuri was tall and had a slender figure. Her dark hair complimented her fine-looking tanned skin. Taeyeon on the contrary was short, but she had this really captivating smile and really

beautiful fair skin.

Which would I be interested in if I were Tiffany? But of course I don’t swing that way.

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

I was practically exploding with joy. I didn’t care even if Jessica were to offer for me to treat the whole world to spicy rice cakes.

I bought the Spicy rice cakes and we all started digging in.

I looked at Taeyeon as she ate contentedly. I have never seen anyone look so cute while eating spicy rice cakes.

“You look really hungry, here have mine too.” I offered the rest of the rice cakes I had left on my plate to Taeyeon.

She looked at me shyly, “Are you sure? These are the most delicious rice cakes I have ever had. You should eat too.”

“I’m full already.” I lied.

After all what can be more satisfying than spending more time with the only girl that makes my heart flutter the way it does.

  Chapter 6

Yuri’s Perspective

I rubbed my tummy. I was stuffed from all that rice cake.

“So does everyone here live on Campus?”

“Tiffany and I live on campus. The both of us are sharing a dorm.” Jessica responded.

“What about you? Where do you live?” Tiffany immediately directed the question at Taeyeon, who was still busy eating the extra portion of rice cakes.

“Campus..53A..” Taeyeon mumbled as she poked at another piece of rice cake.

“Nice I live two blocks away. I’m at 51A.” I said while I observed Tiffany. She was looking at Taeyeon and smiling dreamily.

Hmmm…

After Taeyeon finished we all stood up to leave. We walked towards our dorms and separated with Tiffany and Jessica at the Fork; they went down the left fork to their dorm at block 37B.

“So what do you think of the girls?”, I casually asked.

“They seem like nice girls, I think we’ll all get along great. In fact I’m glad I met you too.” Taeyeon said with a really wide smile on her face.

She seems real dorky and innocent.

“Taeyeon Uhn-neeeeeeee!!!”

A voice squealed in excitement along with hurried footsteps that seemed to be coming from behind us.

I turned my head.

WOW ! What a beauty.

***

Taeyeon’s Perspective

“Taeyeon Uhn-neeeeeeee!!!”, I heard a familiar voice squeal.

It must be that little dong-saeng, so full of energy all the time.

I turned, “Yaaaa Yoona ah, we’re sharing the same dorm you don’t have to scream my name all the time do you?”

Yoona gave cheeky expression, “Well I’m just always this excited. Can’t I be, Can’t I be? Huh? Huh?”

“Well anyway Yoona meet my friend Yuri, and Yuri this is Yoona the little dong-saeng in my dorm.”

“Hi Yoona, Nice to meet you.”, I saw that Yuri was flushed while she shook Yoona’s hands.

It must be from all that walking from campus. It is kind of a warm day today.

***  

Tiffany’s Perspective

As Jessica and I walked down the left fork, I began to feel a sense of longing to be by Taeyeon’s side.

“Stop swooning already.” Jessica interrupted.

“Jess come on you wouldn’t understand how I feel. It’s not like you have anything for anyone now.”

I turned and I saw her look towards the ground smiling.

“Hey Jess are you in love with the ground or something, why are you smiling so sweetly at it?”

“I’m just a little unsure, but I think I kinda umm…I think I feel something for GDragon.”

“WHAT!? That idiot?” I bellowed.

“Come on Tiff, It’s not like you know him.” Jessica said defensively.

“You mean you know him any better? All I know is that he’s obsessing over some chick named Yoona.” I retorted.

“I know. But he has this really deep and mature side to him as well. Honestly I’ve been chatting to him for a while now. Or at least I suspect it’s him.”

“What? How can you not know? This is getting too confusing. I think we really have lots of catching up to do.”, I shook my head.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

We arrived at our dorm and I went back to my room.

The first thing I did was to switch on my computer. I heard a knock on my door.

“Come in. The door is unlocked.” I saw Tiffany’s head pop in.

“So are you free right now? Let’s catch up. Like seriously. Or we may get ourselves into the Guinness book of records as the most distant pair of close friends.” She sniggered.

“But Tiff! I am about to chat to him.” I pouted.

“Hey Jess how do you know it’s him anyway?” Tiffany questioned.

“To be honest, I don’t know for sure, but I just have this gut feeling.”

“What is wrong with the both of you anyway? Don’t you even know his name? Like hellooo how long have the both of you been chatting?”

“Well it is just an agreement we made so that you know it wouldn’t be so embarrassing to talk about all that personal stuff.”

“Ok fine. It doesn’t really make sense to me but as long as it makes sense to the both of you.” Tiffany sighed.

Just then the message notification beeped. It was Drag0nBz. I smiled eagerly.

“Jess seriously I’ve never seen you so energetic before.”

“Stop teasing Tiff or I’m gonna chase you out of my room!” I said while smiling a sweet smile.

“Jess you’re giving me the creeps with that smile.”

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

I sat on Jessica’s bed while she was typing away. At that moment a thought came into my head.

“Hey JESS!” I screamed excitedly.

“Tiff Stop that! You scared me!”

I laughed and apologised.

“You wanna know if that is really GDragon? I’ve got a plan. Hand me the keyboard.”

Jessica looked at me with doubtful eyes, “You sure about that? My future is on the line here.”

“Trust me on this one Jess. Sounds familiar?” We both laughed as she handed me the keyboard.

I typed as Jessica stared intensely at the screen.

IcePrinc3ss: So what were you up to today?

Jessica looked at me, “What were you up to? Tiffany are you sure you know what you’re doing?”

“Just have faith Jess.”

The chat window blinked.

Drag0nBz: I was in school.

I proceeded to type on Jessica’s behalf.

IcePrinc3ss: So did anything unusual happen in school today?

Jessica looked at me with sudden realisation at what I was doing and she looked at the screen with bated breath. The chat window blinked.

Drag0nBz: Not much. Nothing out of the usual except that a girl crashed into me today. Hehe. But I’m fine.

“I KNEW IT!!” Jessica jumped out of her seat.

“Of course he’s fine. I’m the one that isn’t. My bum is still sore from the fall.” I grumbled.

“Get your Taeyeon to massage it for you then!” Jessica stuck out her tongue at me.

I grinned at the thought of Taeyeon.

“Ok Jess I’ll leave you to your dearest dragon boy for tonight. But promise me we’ll catch up soon enough?”

“I Promise. You know I love you Tiffany!”

“I know. I love you too. Enjoy!” With that I walked out of Jessica’s room.

  Chapter 7

Yuri’s Perspective

It was evening and I was bored. I picked up the phone and I called Taeyeon’s Dorm.

After four rings I heard a sweet cheery voice say hello. Her voice is just so sweet.

“Hello may I speak to Taeyeon?” I quickly replied.

“One moment please. Anyway who is that speaking?” the sweet voice asked.

“It is Yuri here.”

“Ohh Yuri Uhn-nee. It’s Yoona here. Anyway Taeyeon Uhn-nee is busy at the moment. Is there something important?”

“Oh..Umm..I was just bored that’s all.” I stammered.

“Perfect! I was looking for someone to go with me to the convenience store! I’m craving for some ice cream and Taeyeon Uhn-nee just refuses to go! I’ll see you at the foot of the stairs at 53A in ten minutes! See you!”

Before I could say anything she hung up.

Wow. She didn’t even give me a chance to say no. Is my dream coming true or what?

I combed my hair and made sure that I looked good. I quickly pulled a jacket over the white pullover that I was already wearing. I looked in the mirror one last time to make sure I was good to go.

My hands were trembling with excitement as I tried to open the main door to my dorm.

Why am I so nervous. Kwon Yuri calm down. It is just a trip to the convenience store. It is not like it is a date or anything.

I walked along the path that led to 53A. As I walked around the corner I saw a tall slim figure standing under the street lamp. She was wearing a white turtle neck with a light brown coat.

The way the light reflected off her pale skin made it seem like she was glowing in the night. She was just so beautiful.

She looks like such an angel. I’ve never seen anyone like that.

I sighed.

Would this be a case of unrequited love? She’s so beautiful how can she ever fall for me?

I shook my head hard.

Kwon Yuri pull yourself together.

I walked over with a wide smile.

“Hi Yoona!” I waved.

She skipped over, “Let’s go Yuri Uhn-nee!”

We started walking up the pathway towards the nearest convenience store. It was about a fifteen to twenty minute walk away.

Crap. What are we going to talk about during that period of time? I hope it won’t be awkward.

It was a really great night to be out on a romantic walk. The weather was just right, the skies were clear. All you could hear was the sound of our shoes against the pavement and the sound of nature in the background.

She was the first to break the silence. “Yuri Uhn-nee do you have a boyfriend?”

I pondered for a second. Should I tell her I’m into girls? I don’t want to scare her off though.

“Well no. I don’t have a boyfriend. What about you?”

“Oh I don’t have one too. There’s this guy who likes me though. All he does is stare at me all day long. It freaks me out. I’ll NEVER like him and he is SO irritating. I just totally hate the way he looks at me. Really! I’ll do ANYTHING to make him stop liking me.”

“Why don’t you get a boyfriend then? Just to shake him off.”

“Ohh. That never crossed my mind until now. Thanks for the suggestion!”

I was slightly disappointed when she said that.

I wish you were MY girlfriend.

“Yuri Uhn-nee did you say something?” Yoona looked at me with her stunning round eyes.

I nudged her playfully to avoid holding her stare. I was afraid to look at her straight in the eye.

“Yaaa! are you deaf? I didn’t say anything. Maybe it was a ghost!” I teased.

She grabbed my arms upon hearing that statement. I laughed.

“Yuri Uhn-nee don’t fool around I’m afraid of ghosts!”

We were across the street from the convenience store when she stopped abruptly.

She grunted in disbelief, “Can you believe it? Speak of the devil! I wonder if he bugs my phone or something! Why does he always appear!”

I assumed she was talking about the guy that likes her. So far that was the only person whom she spoke about with such intense dislike and disgust.

I was about to ask her if she wanted me to get the ice cream while she waited out here when I saw a slight sparkle in her eye.

She slid her hand down from my arm and interlocked her fingers with mine.  

The way she did that almost felt like she was seducing me. It was electrifying. My knees almost gave way.

“Yuri Uhn-nee let’s make this a night to remember.”

For a moment I was confused and then I thought of my suggestion to her earlier on.

Ohhh.

Not a night to remember for us but a night to remember for that dude. He’s gonna be so heartbroken, but who cares! I’ll do anything to make him stay away from Yoona.

She pulled her body closer to mine as we entered the store.

Self control Yuri Self control Self control. That was all I was chanting in my head.

We walked towards the ice cream section and I noticed that the guy spotted us.

Then, Yoona slipped her right arm around my waist gently and looked lovingly at me.

My God! Hold yourself together Kwon Yuri!

She moved her lips to my right ear, with her right arm still around my left hip.

“He’s watching, come on play along.” She said in a low voice while smiling.

I realised that I was showing a blank look for I was still in shock from all that physical intimacy.

I quickly smiled and looked back sweetly at her.

“Yes dear. Let’s share an Ice cream cone.” I improvised.

I turned and looked at the variety of the ice cream to decide which flavour to pick.

She wrapped both arms around my waist comfortably and rested her chin on my left shoulder.

Did she just give me a back hug. The most beautiful girl on earth is giving me a back hug! I am really the luckiest person on earth right now.

I boldly placed my hands on her hands as I turned to face her. Her face was practically only inches away from mine.

“Should we have Strawberry?”

“Sure love. Let’s get one for Taeyeon Uhn-nee too.”

I took two strawberry flavoured ice cream and walked towards the counter. Yoona did not let go of my waist and was practically trailing behind me in the same position.

Through the reflection of the glass, I saw the guy queue behind us. I think Yoona saw it too as she suddenly gave me a peck on the cheeks.

At that moment I almost died. It seemed like he almost died too.

I was struggling internally. Here I was trying so hard to keep myself from falling for Yoona and there she was making it so difficult for me.

When it was our turn I quickly paid for the ice cream so that we could get out of his sight as soon as possible.

Part of me wished for the physical closeness to last longer, and part of me wished it could end quickly.

We exited the store and walked hand in hand towards the path that led to our dorms.

Once we were a safe distance away I released Yoona’s hands.

She took a strawberry ice cream out of the bag and started unwrapping it.

I was about to take the other when she stopped me.  

“Yuri Uhn-nee, I was serious when I said to buy one for Taeyeon Uhn-nee. She loves ice cream. Now we’ll just have to share.”

In the pale moonlight I thought I saw the corner of her lips twitch upwards as she said that.  

***

Yoona’s Perspective

As I was unwrapping the ice cream, I saw from the corner of my eye that Yuri was going to help herself to the other ice cream.

“Yuri Uhn-nee, I was serious when I said to buy one for Taeyeon Uhn-nee. She loves ice cream. Now we’ll just have to share.” The words just came out uncontrollably from my mouth.

I smiled at the thought of the both of us sharing an ice cream cone. I quickly hid the smile as Yuri turned to me.

I licked the ice cream and then offered her some.

I could see her hesitating for a second before she helped herself to it.

Is she homophobic. I thought to myself silently. She seemed to have distanced herself immediately the moment we were out of his sight.

I decided to try finding out. Anyway my motto in life is to be confident about everything that I do. With confidence anything is possible.

“Yuri Uhn-nee. I’m sorry about back there. Did I make you feel uncomfortable?”

She kept silent for a while. I could see that she was deep in thought.

I just continued eating the ice cream.

“Yoona ah. I’ll be honest with you. I like girls so I think you should not allow yourself to be so close to me. It is for your own good.”

When I heard that I could scarcely contain my excitement.

I gently slipped my hands into hers, “I like girls too and I happen to like you.”

  Chapter 8

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I heard the main door click as I stood up and stretched myself.

I rubbed my tired eyes. I was feeling thirsty.

I opened my door so that I could get a glass of water from the kitchen.

As I stepped out I saw a tall figure enter and shut Yoona’s room door.

She must have gone out to get ice cream. It’s a surprise she stopped bugging me and went alone.

I sniggered to myself.

As I was pouring myself a glass of water I saw a note scribbled on our dorm’s whiteboard.

It read “There’s strawberry ice cream for you in the freezer Taeyeon Uhn-nee”

Since when was did Yoona become so considerate? The world is changing!

I opened the freezer and helped myself to the ice cream.

When I was done I decided to thank my little dong-saeng so I started towards her room.

I was about to knock on her door when I heard heavy breathing.

Why is she exercising at such an hour? Must be because she ate too much ice cream. Let me jump in on her and scare her.

I sneakily twisted the door knob silently. I took a deep breath and went in for the kill.

“BOOOO!!! Yoona ah thanks for….” My voice trailed off before I could thank her for the ice cream.

I sure shocked her alright as I did myself.

All I could say after that was, “Ooops..I’m sorry!” I shut the door and let myself out quickly.

I stood there for a while trying to digest what I just walked into.

I heard the door open and I turned to see Yoona looking embarrassed.

I smiled at her sheepishly and apologised for not knocking.

“Well but remember to lock your door the next time you plan on doing anything like that with Yuri.” I said mischievously.

“Yaaaaaaa! Stop teasing and get lost!” Yoona said smiling and yet half embarrassed. She walked back into her room.

I pried open the door slightly and stuck my head in shouting to Yuri and Yoona, “Enjoy yourselves the both of you!”

I quickly pulled my head out and shut the door as a pillow flew in my direction. I heard a soft thud as the pillow hit the door.

I went back to my room and crawled in bed.

I wonder when I’ll find my perfect someone.

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

I was lying under the covers and looking out the window. I couldn’t fall asleep.

All I could think of was Taeyeon. The way she smiles, the way she speaks, the way she walks, the way she eats, the way she listens attentively and takes down notes in lecture, the way she always looks so dorky and yet so cute.

I couldn’t help smiling to myself.

That night, I promised myself to work hard towards my goal.

I’m going to make Taeyeon mine.

I closed my eyes and drifted off to sleep.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

I shut my computer and went out for some water.

I walked to the kitchen in the dark and took a glass. I filled it up with water.

The moon was shining brightly and it illuminated the kitchen.

As I looked up at the moon, it just reminded me of him.

So near and yet so far.

  Chapter 9

Jessica’s Perspective

We were just done with lessons. Taeyeon, Tiffany, myself and Yuri started packing up and headed towards the Canteen.

As we walked towards the Canteen I saw a tall angelic looking girl running in our direction.

She’s so gorgeous. I wonder if the Yoona that GDragon likes is as beautiful as her.

She headed for Yuri and gave her a tight hug.

“Yaaaaa…Yoona ah Yuri ah both of you still haven’t had enough of each other last night?” Taeyeon asked teasingly.

I did a double take.

She’s Yoona?! No wonder GDragon is mesmerized with her!

Last night..Huh? I wonder what is going on. Are they..Together?

Yoona stuck her tongue at Taeyeon and took Yuri’s hands.

Yuri blushed.

Well, I guess that answers my question.

Yoona abruptly turned back to us.

“I’m so sorry I forgot to introduce myself! I was too happy to see Yuri! I’m Yoona.” Yoona said with a beam. And boy was she glowing.

I guess this is what someone in love looks like.

“I’m Tiffany!” My dear friend waved cheerily.

“And I’m Jessica,” I said, still in awe of her beauty.

As the five of us walked towards the Canteen, I saw a person staring at Yoona with a pained look in his eyes.

It was GDragon.

My heart contracted seeing him in this state. I wanted to hug him badly, but I couldn’t.

***

Taeyeon’s Perspective

As we were walking towards the canteen, I noticed that Jessica was looking at something. She had this fragile look on her face. It almost seemed like she was on the verge of tears.

I followed her line of sight and I saw that freak GDragon. The stalker who keeps ogling at Yoona!

Wait a minute. There is no one else there but that freak! Is she looking at him?? Why in the world is she looking at him like that?

I gently tugged at Tiffany’s sleeve and asked, “Tiffany, Is Jessica ok? Why is she looking at GDragon like that?”

Tiffany whispered back, “Well I think it is because she likes him and he likes Yoona? Now that  Yoona is with Yuri I’m sure he’s heartbroken. Naturally our dear Jessica feels the pain seeing him so upset. Oh I don’t know. Their relationship is in a mess.”

I finally understood why Jessica seemed like she was in so much pain.

I felt a sharp tug in my chest as I nodded to Tiffany.

Ouch. Maybe I empathise too much.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

After having a drink together, the five of us made our way back to our dorms.

I arrived in my dorm and as usual I switched on my computer immediately.

GDragon left the canteen after a while. I think it was too unbearable for him to watch the love birds.

I sat there waiting to see if he would come online.

As expected I saw his nickname flash green.

He’s online!

I wonder, if he thinks of me when he’s upset.

I saw an orange tab flashing.

Drag0nBz: Hello.. How was your day?

IcePrinc3ss: Hmm, my day was fine. I hope everything gets better for you soon.

Drag0nBz: Wow. How did you even know I was upset?

IcePrinc3ss: Oh umm. It just felt that way. You sound different today.

Drag0nBz: You could tell just by a sentence?

IcePrinc3ss: Because I’m your soulmate!

Drag0nBz: Haha.

IcePrinc3ss: I’m glad I made you laugh.

Drag0nBz: Thanks. You never fail to give me a warm fuzzy feeling in my heart. It really seems like I have found my soul mate.

***

Drag0nBz’s Perspective

What is this that I’m feeling? It feels so right and yet so wrong. I don’t think it is right for me to be feeling this way towards IcePrinc3ss.

Jessica’s Perpective

We chatted throughout the night and before I knew it. It was time for school.

Tiffany’s Perspective

I burst into Jessica’s room, “GOOOOOD MORNIINNG! IT’S TIME TO GET UP.”

Huh? Is she in the shower already? She’s usually lazing in bed at this hour.

I felt a wet tap on my shoulders. “Do you have to be this loud? I could hear you from the shower.”

“Umm Jess what are you doing up so early?”

“I was err..I..Do you mind! I’m still in my towel. Let me get dressed first your perv.” Jessica said as she shut down her computer.

The door shut in my face.

She is SO prickly today. Did she not sleep or what.

I sat down at the dining table and started eating my sandwich.

Jessica appeared shortly and sat down opposite. She just picked at her bread.

“Why aren’t you eating? There are NO cucumbers in that sandwich.” I said as I chewed on my own sandwich.

“I just have no appetite. I’m sleep deprived right now Tiffany Hwang. Stop bugging me.” She replied lethargically.

“And WHY are you sleep deprived Jessica Jung?”

“Well I spent the night up chatting to him.” She smiled as she said that.

“Now now somebody sure is in love. Sacrificing sleep to chat? THAT is a first.” I sighed. 

Chapter 10

Tiffany’s Perspective

I was standing at the fork, patiently waiting for Taeyeon to appear.

It was a dark and gloomy day. The skies were grey and the strong winds were blowing in my face.

I saw two figures in the distance.

I strained my eyes to see Yuri and Yoona holding hands and walk up the pathway towards me. The both of them were inseparable. They were all over each other practically almost every second of the day.

I was envious. I wish I could be that way with Taeyeon.

I looked behind them but realised there was no one behind them.

“Where’s Taeyeon?”

“Oh she’s unwell.” Yuri said casually.

“What happened to her??” I asked worried.

“She’s just feverish. Think she caught a cold.” Yoona replied.

Suddenly a heavy head landed on my right shoulder.

“Let’s go already...I’m falling asleep just standing here.” Jessica whined.

“You asked for it Jess. Stop whining and stop leaning your whole weight on me!”

My best friend was almost impossible to deal with when she lacked sleep.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

It felt like the longest most difficult walk I ever had. I was tired and the strong winds weren’t helping a single bit.

It took me too much effort to even put my foot forward.

I could have skipped classes but part of me yearned to see GDragon. Today was the day that we shared the same lecture. It was the only class we had together.

As we walked, all that I could think of was the sweet moments we shared.

Every time I thought of him, every part of my body tingled.

I have never felt anything like that before.

Finally we arrived in class. I saw him slouching in his seat. He was seated at the third row from the back.

Yuri, Tiffany and I headed for the second row from the back.

When we past him Tiffany whispered to me, “Seems like someone didn’t sleep the entire night too. His dark circles are looking way worse than yours. Both of you can become the Panda couple.”

I was too tired to react though somehow that sentence made me smile.

I like the thought of us being a couple. But how can I even make that possible?

I sighed and took my seat.

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

I sat down beside Jessica.

I saw that she was totally captivated by him. I never saw her like this before. She was just staring lovingly at GDragon’s back.

I looked to my right. Yuri was smiling sweetly at her phone.

She must be texting Yoona again. Can’t they spend a moment without each other?

At that point in time I felt like the loneliest person.

Yuri had Yoona, and even Jessica has GDragon.

When can I be with Taeyeon. Sigh.

I wonder how she’s feeling now. I hope she’s ok..

Chapter 11

Jessica’s Perspective

Class is over? Already? Sigh. Time flies when you’re enjoying it.

Tiffany’s Perspective

Finally!! Class is over!! I am totally dying to go back to Taeyeon and see how she is.

I packed my bag impatiently and stood up quickly. Yuri did the same.

The both of us were keen to leave. Of course Jessica begged to differ. I’m sure she hoped that this lesson in particular could last forever!

I tapped my feet in annoyance as she moved like a sloth.

All I wanted to do at that moment was shout to GDragon and say ‘Jessica likes you so get together already the both of you.’

It took me all the control I had to hold my tongue.

Jessica finally stood up. Her eyes of course were still on GDragon.

Yuri was already heading out the door.

I gave up. I held Jessica by the hand and dragged her along. If I didn’t do that she would probably only reach our dorm ten years later.

Yuri’s Perspective

I waited outside for Jessica and Tiffany.

I couldn’t wait to go back so that I could spend the rest of the day with Yoona.

She was done with class an hour ago and was already back at her dorm.

After what seemed like forever, Jessica and Tiffany finally came out the door.

“Let’s go girls! I miss Yoona already. In fact I started missing her the moment I stepped into class.”

Jessica showed no expression and Tiffany just smiled a dejected smile.

Hmmm..The both of them are so unlike themselves today.

We started walking.

“So what’s wrong with you Jessica? Why are you so lifeless today?”

“She didn’t sleep last night that’s why!” Tiffany replied on her behalf.

Jessica continued stoning.

“Huh? Jessica? Not Sleep??” I asked wide eyed.

“She stayed up to chat to GDragon. She is practically in love with him.”

“Wow. Ok. So how about you Tiffany? Why do you not seem your usually bubbly self today?”

"Oh umm. I'm just worried about Taeyeon that's all."

We left the conversation at that.

It started to drizzle.

I looked at the sky. “It seems like a storm is coming. We better hurry.”

Chapter 12

Tiffany’s Perspective

We barely shut the main door behind us when it started to pour.

I went to the phone and dialled the number to Taeyeon’s dorm immediately.

Yoona answered the phone.

“Hi Yoona, how is Taeyeon feeling?”

“Tiffany Uhn-nee?”

“Yes it’s Tiffany here. How is Taeyeon?”

“Taeyeon Uhn-nee seems to be burning up quite a bit.”

Suddenly there was a bright flash and a loud clap of thunder.

The line went dead.

I was worried sick.

“Jess I’m going over to Taeyeon’s dorm ok? I’m worried about her.” I said as I opened her room door.

At the same time I heard Jessica swear out loud. “Damn! The internet seems to be down! I hate these stupid storms!”

“Jess I’m leaving now.”

I hurried to the front door.

I barely opened the door when the wind blew it wide open.

Dang. This is the worst storm ever.

I stepped out and after struggling for about ten seconds I finally managed to pull the door shut.

I was already drenched by the time I shut the door.

I ran towards Taeyeon’s Dorm.

The torrential rain was beating against my face and it actually hurt.

Finally I was at my destination. I made my way up the stairs towards Taeyeon’s front door.

I heard footsteps behind me and I saw an equally wet Yuri climbing up the stairs.

“Here to visit Taeyeon?” She asked.

I nodded.

We pushed on the doorbell.

Yoona opened the door shortly.

She was slightly taken aback when she saw the both of us.

I guess the both of us must have looked a mess with our wind struck hair and our dripping clothes.

It was the kind of downpour no number of umbrellas could shelter.

Yoona quickly invited us in.

***

Yoona’s Perspective

I heard the doorbell buzz.

Who in the world can it be in this insane weather?

I opened the door not expecting to see two people standing there.

Tiffany and my darling Yuri were standing there soaked to the skin.

I hurriedly invited them in.

“Yuri ah why did you come over? I thought I told you to stay in your room. What if something happened to you on your way here?” I sulked.

“Yoona baby don’t be mad. I just couldn’t bear the thought of being kept away from you. I can give my life away for you, what more brave a storm?”

Yuri is so sweet. She never fails to make me smile.

I leaned over and kissed her tenderly on her lips.

I pulled a leaf out of her hair and ran my fingers through her hair.

“Now I’ll have to bathe you. You look a mess!” I said cheekily.

OH I almost forgot! Tiffany Uhn-nee was still standing there. That’s what love does; it makes you oblivious to your surroundings.

“Tiffany Uhn-nee, what are you doing here?”

“Oh I just wanted to see if you needed help looking after Taeyeon. I was worried that you couldn’t manage.”

“Ok hang on while I get you a towel. Don’t want you to catch a cold too.”

Yuri spoke in an undertone whilst we walked towards my room. “Baby, I think Tiffany likes Taeyeon.”

“Let’s do them both a favour.” Yuri and I said at the same time.

We giggled. We were really a match made in heaven.

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

I watched Yoona and Yuri as they walked to the room hand in hand.

The both of them look so sweet together. They really are the perfect couple.

I walked over to Taeyeon’s room and pushed open the door gently.

I didn’t want to wake her. Although it was not like the storm wasn’t already making a whole lot of noise.

Taeyeon was in bed. Her cheeks were all flushed.

I wish I could take her place.

Yoona and Yuri came in shortly with a towel and a set of fresh clothes.

“Here this is for you. You may want to take a shower too. If you fall sick too who’s going to help me to take care of Taeyeon Uhn-nee.” Yoona said in a low whisper.

I nodded.

There were two shower stalls in the bathroom.

I went in one and then I heard Yuri enter the other.

When I came out of the shower I could still hear the sound of running water in the next stall.

I dried my hair as I walked towards Taeyeon’s room.

I was dressed in a pink t-shirt and a pair of sweat pants.  Lucky for me the clothes fit, just that the pants were slightly too long. Thankfully I could roll the ends up.

I hovered over Taeyeon’s bed and gazed at her. She looked like an innocent child bundled up in bed.

I placed my hand on her forehead and it was burning.

I went out of the room looking for Yoona but she was nowhere to be seen. I wonder where she went.

I looked around and I saw a small face towel soaked in a tiny basin. Yoona must have sponged Taeyeon with that just now. It was exactly what I was looking for.

I rinsed the towel and refilled the basin with water and brought it into Taeyeon’s room.

I placed the basin on her stool and sat on her bed while I sponged her. She didn’t move the entire time. She must be feeling really weak and tired.

“Do you know how much it pains my heart to see you like this?” I sighed.

“I wish you knew how much you mean to me. I really wish that you feel the same way about me too. If only you knew that I love you.” I continued with my monologue.

Sitting so close to her was just too much to bear at that moment. The feeling of being so close and yet not being able to have her was quite a struggle for me.

I stood up and started pacing around the room, trying to contain my feelings.

“…Cold..” I heard a soft hoarse voice mumbling.

Taeyeon!

I turned and rushed over to her bedside. Somehow I managed to trip on the length of the sweatpants and I stumbled.

Crap! No!! I’m going to crash into Taeyeon.

Lucky for me I managed to stop the fall by propping my hands against the mattress.

Just in time. Phew~

I was just an inch away from her face.

Taeyeon stirred slightly.

My heart was racing.

Her eyes half opened.

She half blinked.

She blinked tenderly again.

“I love..you..”

Did I hear wrong? Did she just say she loves me?

It just felt so right at that moment. I leaned slightly forward and pressed my lips against her soft lips.

Her lips parted slightly and she closed her eyes.

I pulled back and I gave her a gentle peck on her forehead.

Chapter 13

Yoona’s Perspective

Yuri and I stepped out of the bathroom.

“Let’s go and check on Taeyeon Uhn-nee.”

Yuri nodded. We could barely hear each other with all the noise in the background.

She held my hands as we made our way towards Taeyeon Uhn-nee’s room.

The door was ajar.

I was about to push the door open when Yuri stopped me.

She excitedly motioned for me to peep through the crack.

I tilted my head just in time to see what was going on.

Tiffany Uhn-nee was bending over Taeyeon Uhn-nee. It seemed like Taeyeon Uhn-nee muttered something. It looked like she said I love you but we couldn’t hear a word thanks to the storm.

Yuri and I almost went ballistic at what came next. Tiffany Uhn-nee and Taeyeon Uhn-nee were looking in each other’s eyes and they kissed.

Yuri dragged me back to my room before we got caught spying.

She sat down on my bed, leaning against the headboard.

“Did we just see that? Taeyeon Uhn-nee is so going to die from all my teasing! Revenge is sweet! It’s time she paid for teasing us so much.” I said with energy.

Yuri laughed nonchalantly and said to me, “Silly girl. You get excited over the simplest things.”

“Come on over.” She said gesturing for me to join her.

I lay beside her and we snuggled up close.

“Goodnight love.” I said.

“Goodnight my love.”  Yuri said while giving me a gentle peck on the lips.

Although there was a storm going on outside, it felt like spring in both our hearts.

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

It was getting late and I was getting tired. It was still stormy out.

I doubt I’ll be able to go back in this weather. I should let Jess know just in case she worries.

I walked out to the living room and picked up the phone. There was no tone.

Hmm..The lines are still down. I left my phone back at the dorm. Perhaps I’ll borrow Yuri’s phone.

I walked to Yoona’s room. I softly knocked on the door. There wasn’t any reply. I silently twisted the door knob and peeked in.

I saw the two of them huddled up in bed snuggling up against each other. They just looked so sweet together. They were sound asleep so I didn’t want to wake them.

I went back to Taeyeon’s room. I saw that her computer had a blinking light on.

Should I try the internet and see if Jessica is online?

I decided to.

I switched on the monitor. I saw that there was no internet connection. The phone lines and the internet network must have been down since earlier on.

Suddenly Taeyeon’s mobile started ringing. Her ringtone was ‘Because I love you’ by Shakin Stevens.

Wow didn’t know she was into such old English songs.

I picked her phone off the table and saw that it was Jessica.

“Hello Jess. It’s me Tiffany.”

“Oh hey is everything ok? I was trying to get you but I realised you left your phone back here. I guessed that you were still with Taeyeon so I called her instead. So how is she feeling anyway?”

I touched Taeyeon’s cheeks. “Well I think her fever is subsiding. Anyway I don’t think I’ll be able to go back tonight. You’ll be alone in the dorm. Will you be ok?”

“Yeah don’t worry about me. I’m pretty worn from not sleeping yesterday. I actually just woke up for some water and I realised you weren’t back yet.” Jessica yawned.

“Ok go back to bed. I’ll see you tomorrow morning. Good night Jess.”

“Good night.”

I hung up and placed the phone back on the table.

I went back to Taeyeon’s bedside. She was deep in sleep.

I laid beside her and propped my head up with my hands. I looked at her while I stroked her cheeks lovingly.

I never thought that she would tell me that she loves me. It just feels so surreal. Did she hear me speaking…

The last thing that I remembered was seeing her beautiful face before I dozed off beside her.

***

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I woke up to birds chirping. I was feeling better already. It feels like my fever has totally subsided. Though, I still felt slightly woozy.

I was about to get up when I realised that there was an arm on my tummy.  I turned to see Tiffany’s head right beside mine.

“GOOOOOOD MORNING!!” Yoona and Yuri suddenly burst in shouting.

Tiffany jerked awake. When she saw me looking her in the eye she turned pink.

“Oooooo seems like a sweet little couple we have there.” Yoona said in a sing song voice.

I opened my mouth to speak but my voice cracked at the second word. My throat was dry.

“Anyway don’t bother defending yourself. Yuri and I saw everything!”

Tiffany turned a deep red.

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

I awoke to a loud good morning greeting.

The first thing that I saw when I opened my eyes was a pair of beautiful eyes looking deeply into mine. I was embarrassed. It was the first time we looked into each other’s eyes after the kiss. I could still remember the feel

of her lips against mine.

“Oooooo seems like a sweet little couple we have there.” Yoona said in a sing song voice.

It seemed like Taeyeon wanted to say something but her voice cracked.

Before I could stand up to get her a glass of water Yoona continued. “Anyway don’t bother defending yourself. Yuri and I saw everything!”

Did they really see us kiss? This was so embarrassing.

My cheeks turned a deep red.

“Taeyeon ah I’ll get you some water.” I quickly excused myself.

***

Yuri’s Perspective

“You sneaky little thing! I didn’t know you were into Tiffany.” I said to Taeyeon.

“Yes! Talk about being sneaky. They were sneakily sneaking kisses yesterday as well.” Yoona joined in.

Taeyeon cleared her throat. “Yaa yaaa yaaaa stop fooling around on an early saturday morning. You have better things to do.”

Her voice still sounded kind of hoarse.

Tiffany came back in with a glass of water. “We’ll leave the both of you alone now. Don’t want to be interrupting another kiss!”

Yoona and I laughed as we left the room.

***

Tiffany’s Perspective

I shyly walked towards Taeyeon and offered her the water. She took a few sips.

“Thanks.” She said.

“Anyway are you hungry? You haven’t had anything to eat since yesterday.” I asked.

“Now that you mention I am hungry.” She said while rubbing her tummy.

“I’ll prepare something for you! I’ll let you know when it’s ready!” With that I ran out to the kitchen.

I saw that Yoona and Yuri were already preparing breakfast.

“Do you need help?” I asked the both of them.

Yuri replied, “Don’t worry leave it to me! I’m the greatest chef of the century.”

“You are also the greatest girlfriend of the century!” Yoona added on kissing Yuri lightly on the cheeks.

“Anyway should I ask Jessica over too? She’s all alone.” I suddenly remembered.

“I already called her. She’s coming over.” Yuri said.

The doorbell rang at that moment.

“That must be her!” Yoona ran to the door and let Jessica in.

“Anyway breakfast is ready, Tiffany you can get your dear girlfriend out here to eat.” Yuri said looking at me.

“Did I miss out on something?” Jessica asked puzzled.

“You missed out on sooooo much Jessica Uhn-nee. We’ll fill you in over breakfast.” Yoona exclaimed.

I went in to get Taeyeon.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

Tiffany and Taeyeon are together already? I wonder what is going on.

“So what exactly is going on?” I directed my question at both Yuri and Yoona.

Tiffany appeared holding Taeyeon’s hands, leading her towards the dining table.

“Well yesterday Yoona and I were about to go and check on Taeyeon. When we were at the door, we saw our dear Tiffany here bending over Taeyeon. They were like THIS close.” Yuri started to act it out with Yoona.

“Imagine I’m Tiffany and Yoona is Taeyeon.” Yuri explained.

She placed her face approximately one inch from Yoona’s.

Yoona blinked twice. “I love you.”

Yuri leaned in and kissed Yoona. Yoona closed her eyes and parted her lips slightly.

Wow that was some explicit re-enactment. I wonder if Tiffany really did that with Taeyeon.

I looked over at Tiffany and Taeyeon. The both of them were quiet.

I could see that Yuri and Yoona were enjoying themselves thoroughly.

“Tiffany and Taeyeon I’m happy for you.” I smiled genuinely. “Tiffany has had the biggest crush on you for the longest time!”

“Jessie! You didn’t have to add on!” Tiffany said bashfully.

We all laughed at Tiffany.

“Yaa yaaa stop teasing us and just eat.” Taeyeon said still sounding slightly weak.

When will it be my turn? I sighed deep inside.

Chapter 14

Yoona’s Perspective

We were just done with our breakfast. Taeyeon Uhn-nee seemed to feel much better after eating and drinking. 

“It’s such a beautiful Saturday. Should we all go for a movie?” I suggested.

“Anything you want Yoona baby.” My darling Yuri replied.

The other three agreed as well. 

We washed the dishes and cleaned the place.

“Ok let’s all meet here in an hour? Is that enough time for everyone to wash up and prepare?” I asked.

“Of course it is! I’ll even be done in half an hour so I can hurry on over to see you again!” With that Yuri gave me a peck on the cheeks and left.

“Ok we’ll see you in an hour.” Jessica and Tiffany said and left together.

Taeyeon Uhn-nee just walked back to her room.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

Tiffany and I were walking down the path back to our Dorm. It was just about two minutes away.

“So did that really happen? What Yoona and Yuri described.” I looked at Tiffany. She was smiling sweetly and blushing slightly.

“So how did it happen?” I was curious. It was just so sudden.

“Well. I don’t really know how it happened too. It was like one moment she was asleep and the next she was telling me that she loves me. She probably heard me 

confessing to her. I mean I was just taking the chance to say what I wanted to say while she was asleep. I didn’t know that she would have heard me because it sure 

didn’t seem like she did. I can’t believe it, we kissed. It was the sweetest lips I’ve ever tasted.” Tiffany blabbered on and on.  

I was really happy for her. It was like a dream come true for her. 

Will my dream come true?

I sighed unknowingly.

“Jessie are you ok? Thinking of him again aren’t you?” Tiffany asked concerned.

“Yes my dear friend. You do know me well.” I replied dejectedly.

“So why don’t you tell him who you are?” 

“Because I don’t know it just doesn’t seem right. I can’t bring myself to do it. Anyway let’s not worry about this now. I’m happy enough to be able to chat to him 

for now.” I concluded while I opened the door to our dorm.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

We were done and heading back to Taeyeon’s dorm. I was looking forward to see her again. 

Although we have had our first kiss, things still felt a little awkward between us. 

She was just not the type to show her affection openly, unlike Yuri and Yoona.

I wish we could be more like them. Am I selfish for thinking that? We should take things at her pace. I don’t want her to feel too uncomfortable.

We all gathered and headed for the cinema.

When we arrived, Yoona and Yuri went to get the movie tickets.

Taeyeon, Jessica and I went to get the popcorn. 

It was our turn.

“Hi can we get two lovers popcorn set, and a single popcorn set please? Thank you.”

Taeyeon paid. Yuri and Yoona were done buying the tickets as well. We went into the Cinema. 

We all settled in and Jessica was sitting in between Yuri and I. 

During the movie I was very conscious of Taeyeon’s every movement. I couldn’t help but feel uptight. I was totally not myself. 

There were a few times that our hands touched while we were helping ourselves to the popcorn. 

Every time that happened I would smile. Even minor physical contact like this sent tingles down my spine. 

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I was seated in between the two couples. Somehow it made me feel very alone. 

To my left I could see that Tiffany was smiling to herself at times. I would guess that was because they were sneaking bits of hand holding here and there in the popcorn bag. 

To my right Yuri had her arms around Yoona while Yoona snuggled against the crook of Yuri’s neck. I couldn’t help but notice the both of them giving each other soft kisses every once in the while as well. 

Everything around me is just too sweet. The couples are so sweet and even the popcorn is too sweet! 

Jessica Jung why are you feeling so bitter! Get a grip on yourself! 

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

I happened to catch sight of Jessica’s expression halfway through the movie.

It distracted me from Taeyeon for a while. 

Jessica must be feeling down. To be surrounded by two couples will most definitely amplify her sadness. I must think of a way to help her out.

Just then I spotted a familiar back view five rows down the front. It seemed like him. 

It was too dark. I couldn’t be sure. 

After a while the movie ended. The lights turned on.

I took a better look. It was indeed him. 

“Hey Taeyeon, I’m going to do my best friend a favour now. I hope she doesn’t kill me.” I whispered into her ears.

Taeyeon looked at me puzzled. 

I stood up. 

All of them looked at me thinking I was ready to leave. They all followed suit. Taeyeon was the only one who knew I was planning something. Just that she didn’t 

know what. 

Yoona and Yuri started walking towards the right aisle and Jessica followed suit. 

I went out and down the left aisle before Jessica realised I was missing. When she did it was too late. 

I noticed that she turned her head to ask Taeyeon a question I presume sounded something like, “Where did Tiffany go?”

When she spotted me I was already talking to him. I tapped his shoulder.

“Hey GDragon right??” 

He looked at me with this weird look.

“Ok I know this is going to sound really random and really weird but the thing is my friend Jessica. She likes you. She’s the one standing there staring at us with 

the gaping mouth.” I pointed.

“She has had this thing for you for the longest time. So if you like our dear Jessica please do something about it. I don’t want to see her upset.” 

I saw this dumbfounded look on his face. It was there for the longest time. He didn’t seem to have any other reaction. 

By that time Jessica already went out of the Cinema with the rest of them. 

I knew I had to face the wrath of the Ice Princess Jessica in a bit. I had to face the music, but it was done all for her good. 

Only Taeyeon waited for me. 

I caught up to Taeyeon.

“So what’s going on Tiffany? Why were you talking to GDragon?” She questioned.

“Well see the thing is Jessica likes him right. Since she’s all alone now and all of us are in pairs I thought that as her best friend I should help her to confess 

to the person she likes.”  I explained. 

“Wow Tiffany you sure are brave. She’s really going to kill you once she finds out. I don’t think even I can save you.” 

“Well It’s the thought that counts, at least I know you want to save me.” I smiled sweetly at Taeyeon. 

We walked out the Cinema together. The moment we were out, Jessica grabbed me by the shoulders.

“What did you say to him?? Don’t tell me you did what I think you did??? Please tell me you didn’t. PLEASE.”

I looked at the ground. “Well. I just told him that you like him?” 

“You told him WHAT?” Jessica half roared.

“Chill Jess. I told him you like him. That’s all. I did it all for you. Come on don’t be mad?” I looked at her with puppy eyes.

“You are unbelievable. I’m so screwed.” Jessica walked away in exasperation.

Chapter 15

Jessica’s Perspective

I was feeling light headed. I didn’t know how GDragon would react to what Tiffany told him. 

I had to get home, go online and find out. 

Tiffany was walking silently beside me.

I could sense her guilt and I knew she did it for my sake.

How can it be such a coincidence?

Why did he have to watch the same movie.

Was it fate?

I never told him who I was because I was afraid.

I was afraid to lose what we had if he found out. 

I was afraid that things between us would change.

Before I knew it we were back on campus.

I heard Tiffany tell Taeyeon, “I better go back with Jessica and make sure she’s ok. I’ll look for you later.”

Ok? How can I be ok!

I was still mad. I was worried.

“Hey Jess forgive me?” Tiffany whimpered.

I ignored her. I just couldn’t talk right now.

I just had to know that everything was ok before I could focus on anything else.

I walked into our dorm, walked into my room, shut the door. I locked it.

I switched on my computer.

I waited. I tapped my fingers impatiently.

Why isn’t he coming online.

Is he still at the mall?

How long more do I have to wait?

Relax Jessica relax.

I switched on the radio. I tuned it to our favourite English radio station. 

I sure hope they play some soothing songs to calm me down.

Because I love you by Shakin Stevens started playing. He had a really soothing voice. It did calm me down a bit. 

Was the radio DJ psychic? They lyrics of the song were totally suited for me right now.

Just then Drag0nBz’s nickname blinked.  

He was online! Finally!

Drag0nBz:

 Hi Princess, how’s your day? 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Hi. My day is fine. How about yours?

What a lie. I’m totally panicking. I’m NOT fine!

Drag0nBz:

  Well I’m a little bothered. I don’t know where to begin. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Oh what’s wrong? Did something happen?

My heart raced.

Drag0nBz:

  See the thing is there’s this girl. She likes me. Apparently she has had this thing for me for the longest time. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Isn’t that a good thing? How is that bothering you?

Please don’t tell me. I really don’t want to know. Why did I ask.

Drag0nBz:

  Well the problem is. I don’t feel the same way towards her and I don’t know how I should turn her down. I’ve never been good with rejecting people. 

But you just did. You just rejected me.

IcePrinc3ss:

 ok. I’m in no position to comment on that. 

Drag0nBz:

  Are you ok? You sound upset. 

I started tearing. The tears just flowed down uncontrollably. 

He doesn’t feel that way towards me. At least I know now. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Hey I’ve got to go now. I’ll talk to you soon. Bye.

There was a knock on my door.

“Jessica. Are you ok?” It was Tiffany.

I opened the door and gave her a big hug. I broke down sobbing.

“Jess what’s wrong? I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that without your consent.” Tiffany apologised.

“It’s ok… At least.. now.. I know he.. doesn’t… like… me.” I said between sobs. 

“Aww come on Jess. Cheer up. At least now you wouldn’t have to waste time waiting around for him right?”

I sniffled. 

“I’ll call Taeyeon over so we can have a movie marathon alright?” Tiffany suggested.

“Ok. Just don’t act all lovey dovey in front of me.” I replied in an uneven voice.

“Don’t worry we’re not like Yuri and Yoona.” Tiffany joked.

I laughed a little at that joke.

Tiffany called Taeyeon and she brought a bunch of DVDs over. 

The doorbell rang. 

Tiffany let Taeyeon in.

“Woah is that a goldfish I see?” Taeyeon teased.

I threw the cushion I held in my hands at her.

“Wow I just taught the goldfish a new trick. It’s the first goldfish that can throw cushions at people.” Taeyeon joked again.

She was so dorky. I couldn’t help but laugh.

I’m glad I have friends to cheer me up.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

I’m glad Taeyeon is over. I don’t think I’ll be able to cheer Jessica up all by myself

.

I sifted through the pile of DVDs. “So what do you want to watch?”

“Its fine, just take your pick. What matters is that the both of you are here to accompany me.” Jessica said sniffling

We randomly picked a comedy and played it. 

We were watching the show in the living room when Taeyeon’s phone rang. 

Jessica suddenly started sobbing again.

I was stunned.

“Jess what’s wrong?” I asked concerned.

Taeyeon was shocked too.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

Because I love you started playing. It was Taeyeon’s ringtone. 

It reminded me of him.

It was the song that was playing while we were chatting.

My heart twisted in pain.

They lyrics pricked my heart.

I love him but he let me down.

It just hurts so bad.

My tears just flowed again.

“Jess what’s wrong?” Tiffany asked concerned.

“It’s just Taeyeon’s ringtone. That song was playing when I was chatting to him just now. It reminds me of when he rejected me indirectly.” I broke down even more.

“Jess don’t cry. I don’t think he would have rejected you if he knew Jessica was the IcePrinc3ss and vice versa. Why don’t you tell him?” Tiffany suggested.

Why didn’t that occur to me? Maybe I can do that the next time around.

“Just do it the next time he’s online ok? You may be surprised at the outcome.” Tiffany encouraged. 

I nodded.

Taeyeon handed me a piece of tissue silently. 

I wiped my tears away.

Maybe there is still hope?

Chapter 16

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I blinked. The television showed a dull screen. 

I must have fallen asleep on the couch halfway through the show.

I pushed a button on my phone. It was 3.20am.

I looked left. Tiffany and Jessica were huddled together. 

Apparently I wasn’t the only one who fell asleep.

I switched off the TV. 

I headed for Tiffany’s room.

I took her blanket and headed outside. 

I covered the both of them. 

I picked up my phone as I took one last glance at the pair of close friends and I left for my own dorm.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I opened my eyes to find Tiffany and I huddling together. We must have fallen asleep halfway through the show. 

It was dark. Taeyeon must have switched off the TV. She even covered us up. 

She’s such a sweet and considerate person. Tiffany is lucky to have found such a good catch. If only Taeyeon were a guy, she would have been perfect.

I looked at Tiffany who was still sound asleep.

She’s the best friend anyone could ever have. I’m glad I have her here with me.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

It was morning. I must have fallen asleep on the couch. 

My body felt stiff. Jessica was still sleeping against me. I stretched my legs.

She stirred. “Good Morning Jess.” I said looking at her.

“Good Morning.” She said sleepily.

I stood up. I stretched.

Ahhh. It felt so good.

She plonked back down onto the couch, covering herself with my blanket.

My blanket? What was it doing out here. 

I looked around for Taeyeon. She must have went back. 

Taetae is so sweet. She must have covered us up before she left. I am so lucky. 

*** 

Drag0nBz’s Perspective

I was sitting patiently in front of my computer. 

There was no sign of IcePrinc3ss yet. 

She left so abruptly yesterday. 

I wonder how she’s feeling. 

I have been waiting all morning. There was still no sign of her.

I opened up our chat logs. I would never get bored reading it. Our chat log was really long. 

I would always smile to myself when I read our conversations again. 

It was like a mini storybook. Our mini storybook. 

Though, I think if we printed it out we will probably need one ream of paper printed on both sides. Not so mini after all.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I stretched. I was finally willing to get up.

I didn’t think that the couch could be so comfortable to sleep on.

I thought of what Tiffany suggested yesterday. 

Should I do it? How should I tell him that IcePrinc3ss is actually Jessica. 

Maybe just maybe I should find out how he feels towards IcePrinc3ss first.

My gut told me that he likes IcePrinc3ss. I just had to confirm it.

I returned to my room and switched on my computer.

I washed up while my computer was starting up.

When I was done washing up I picked up Tiffany’s blanket and returned it. 

Tiffany was sitting at her desk and reading a website online.

“Oh hey you’re up.” She said not looking away from her computer screen. 

I caught a quick glance and saw the title. No wonder she was so engrossed.

“Yeah I’m here to return you your blanket. Thanks. Anyway I’m gonna take your suggestion into consideration and execute it today.”

“Ok. Good luck.” She was still looking at the screen.

"You're sure I should do it right?" I asked unsure.

"Jess just do it." She continued scrolling through the site.

My dear friend was hopeless sometimes.

‘Skinship 101’ was the title.

I went back to my room.

I sat down.

I took a deep breath.

I exhaled slowly.

I saw that Drag0nBz already sent me a message.

Drag0nBz:

 Good morning princess.

Drag0nBz:

 You’re not ignoring me are you?

Drag0nBz:

 Is everything ok? Why aren’t you replying?

Drag0nBz:

 If you want to talk just message me anytime ok? I’ll leave you alone now.

I was smiling. It was the first smile since yesterday. 

He seems really concerned about  me. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Good morning. I was just washing up that’s all. Don’t worry I will never ignore you! 

IcePrinc3ss:

 I had a long night. Stayed up watching movies with two of my friends. 

I was crying because of you too but you don’t have to know that.

IcePrinc3ss:

 So what were you up to last night? Since I wasn’t online to talk to you. 

Drag0nBz:

 Oh I wasn’t up to much. Just you know doing random stuff. Though I did wish you were online so I could chat to you. 

Ok here goes.

IcePrinc3ss:

 Hey. I actually have something to tell you.

Drag0nBz:

 What is it? Is it about love? Hehe.

IcePrinc3ss:

 Yes you guessed it right. You’re psychic. 

Drag0nBz:

 I know right. I’m just good at such. So which guy is it this time? Tell me your problems my dear princess I’ll solve it all for you. And since I’m a psychic perhaps I can even tell you what the guy you like is thinking. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Yes I’m sure you can tell me. 

Drag0nBz:

 Ok. Go on. I’m listening/reading.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I think I’ve fallen for you.

I held my breath anticipating his reply. 

It was silent for one minute. He wasn’t replying. 

I didn’t want to push him. I didn’t want to come across as desperate.

I just waited. Although deep inside, I was really desperate to know his answer.

Come on. Say something. It’s not that hard. It’s either you like me or you don’t. How difficult can it get?

Reply. Reply! Let’s just end it here and now. 

It’s either a happy ending or a total heartbreak. I’ll be able to accept it. 

Jessica Jung you have to be strong.

I couldn’t wait any longer. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 So? What’s going on in his mind now Psychic dragon?

I saw that he started typing. I clasped my hands together and prayed hard.

Please god. Let it be a good answer.

Chapter 17

Drag0nBz’s Perspective

Finally. IcePrinc3ss finally came online.

Drag0nBz:

 Good morning princess. 

I sure hope it will be a good morning.

Why is she taking so long to reply. She’s not usually like this.

Drag0nBz:

 You’re not ignoring me are you? 

Seriously? Fifteen minutes and still no reply?

Drag0nBz:

 Is everything ok? Why aren’t you replying? 

She’s usually quick to reply. I hope she isn’t still upset.

Drag0nBz:

 If you want to talk just message me anytime ok? I’ll leave you alone now. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Good morning. I was just washing up that’s all. Don’t worry I will never ignore you! 

Phew. Finally a reply.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I had a long night. Stayed up watching movies with two of my friends. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 So what were you up to last night? Since I wasn’t online to talk to you. 

Now now that’s the cheeky girl I know. She’s back.

Drag0nBz:

 Oh I wasn’t up to much. Just you know doing random stuff. Though I did wish you were online so I could chat to you. 

I typed what I really felt. It was true. All of yesterday I just wished that we could have a heart to heart conversation online. 

Of course circumstances did not permit.

IcePrinc3ss:

 Hey. I actually have something to tell you. 

Drag0nBz:

 What is it? Is it about love? Hehe. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Yes you guessed it right. You’re psychic. 

Of course. I’m totally ‘Psychic’

Drag0nBz:

 I know right. I’m just good at such. So which guy is it this time? Tell me your problems my dear princess I’ll solve it all for you. And since I’m a psychic perhaps I can even tell you what the guy you like is thinking. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Yes I’m sure you can tell me. 

Wow she has that much confidence in my psychic abilities.

Drag0nBz:

 Ok. Go on. I’m listening/reading. 

I wonder what she’s going to tell me.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I think I’ve fallen for you. 

My heartbeat quickened, and I could not hide my crooked smile as I saw the string of alphabets that progressively appeared on the screen. 

In all honesty, I have never felt that much joy and excitement in my entire life. My cheeks started to burn as I repeatedly read the six words in incredulity. The adrenaline that was pulsing through my veins gave me the false belief of nirvana. I was floating in heaven’s reign. 

Mockingly, the cold hard truth of the situation struck me with so much force that it felt like I was jolted off a plane and plummeting through the skies at the speed of light, finally crashing into a large concrete boulder of reality.

Truth be told, I never thought I could feel two extreme emotions at once.  

I was torn.

IcePrinc3ss:

 So? What’s going on in his mind now Psychic dragon? 

What should I tell her? It is a fact. I do feel the same way towards her.

The veins in my neck were pulsing. My ears were red. 

I couldn’t think at that moment. My brain was not functioning.

I let my fingers do the work.

Drag0nBz:

 Well. The truth is I have fallen for you too.

Crap! What in the world am I doing! I’m confessing! I shouldn’t be doing this. No. No. 

It was a total battle between my left and right brain. Logic versus Emotion. It sucked.

It felt like I was cut up. I felt too much but yet I thought differently. 

The radio was on to our favourite English radio station. It really didn’t help that the program segment right now was ‘Sentimental Sundays’.

The songs that just played were ‘Amazed’, ‘Endless Love’, and ‘I finally found someone’.

I swear it must have been the music. It set the mood and my emotions took over.

Drag0nBz:

 From the first time there was this strange affinity I felt. I’m not sure if you felt it too.  

Drag0nBz:

 The more we talked the more I felt for you. I would never have dreamt that you would feel the same way too.

Drag0nBz:

 I really need you to know this. Love crept up on me silently and you found your way to my heart. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 I love you.

Drag0nBz:

 I love you.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

Drag0nBz:

 Well. The truth is I have fallen for you too.

I felt a surge of happiness. I could even feel it in the ends of my hair.

I was listening in to our favourite Radio Station. The songs were perfect for the current situation. 

Everything sounded so sweet, I felt the sweetness too.

I even tasted it in my tongue. 

Drag0nBz:

 From the first time there was this strange affinity I felt. I’m not sure if you felt it too.  

Drag0nBz:

 The more we talked the more I felt for you. I would never have dreamt that you would feel the same way too.

Drag0nBz:

 I really need you to know this. Love crept up on me silently and you found your way to my heart. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 I love you.

Drag0nBz:

 I love you.

It’s time for the real confession.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I have another confession to make. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 I know who you are.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I have known since you told me that a girl crashed into you in school. I’m sorry I didn’t let you know earlier. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 I just want you to know that I love you for who you are when you converse with me. I want you to know that I love the real you. The you that you portray when you’re online. The you that share all your deepest feelings with me. The mature you. The sensible you. The sweet you. The considerate you. The concerned you. I didn’t fall for you for your looks. I didn’t fall for you just because I knew who you were. I felt for you even before I met you.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I hope you forgive me for not telling you all this earlier. 

***

Drag0nBz’s Perspective

IcePrinc3ss:

 I have another confession to make. 

Another confession? What can it be?

IcePrinc3ss:

 I know who you are.

WHAT? She knows who I am? No way. How is that possible. I have always been careful. I only found out who she was yesterday.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I have known since you told me that a girl crashed into you in school. I’m sorry I didn’t let you know earlier. 

Crap! So that’s how she knew.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I just want you to know that I love you for who you are when you converse with me. I want you to know that I love the real you. The you that you portray when you’re online. The you that share all your deepest feelings with me. The mature you. The sensible you. The sweet you. The considerate you. The concerned you. I didn’t fall for you for your looks. I didn’t fall for you just because I knew who you were. I felt for you even before I met you.

IcePrinc3ss:

 I hope you forgive me for not telling you all this earlier. 

Sigh. How can I ever be angry with you? 

Now what are the both of us supposed to do? Since she knows my true identity.

Chapter 18

Jessica’s Perspective

I waited for him to reply.

Again, he wasn’t replying.

Why does he have to think so much today? It feels like he’s thinking so much at every single thing we talk about today.

IcePrinc3ss:

 GDragon are you ok? Why are you so quiet. You’re not upset at me are you?

*** 

Drag0nBz’s Perspective

IcePrinc3ss:

 GDragon are you ok? Why are you so quiet. You’re not upset at me are you?

HA! She said Gdragon!

I felt a sense of relief at that moment.

It did not mean that all my worries were over. I just felt a sense of relief at that moment.

It was a truly confusing situation. 

Drag0nBz:

 No, no. Of course I’m ok. 

IcePrinc3ss:

 Anyway aren’t you curious who I am? You know, since I know who you are. It is only fair if I tell you who I am right?

Crap! Didn’t see that coming. I can’t allow this to happen. 

I pulled out the internet cable.

Quick thinking Kim Taeyeon. 

I smirked to myself.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

Huh!? What just happened? 

I saw on my screen. ‘ User Drag0nBz got disconnected’ 

Is his internet down? Of all times! Why did it have to happen now!!

Grrrr..

Anyway I’m happy now. At least I know he likes me. 

I couldn’t wait to tell Tiffany. 

I ran to her room while calling her name.

“Tiiiifffaaaannnnyyyy Tiiifffaaaaaaaaaannny! Lalalalala.”

She walked out of her room. 

“Are you crazy or something Jessica?”  She continued walking.

It didn’t seem like she came out because she heard me calling for her.

She headed right for the main door.

“I’m headed for Taeyeon’s. Ciao.” She shut the door behind her.

Why was she in such a hurry? She must be in a hurry to put her Skinship 101 to the test.

Tiffany was just so hilarious at times.

I grabbed my stuff, and I hurried after her.

After all I can share with the rest of them what just happened.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective 

Jessica sure is in a great mood all of a sudden. Things must have went well.

I kept my mind focused on what I just read.

‘Unintentional skinship’ – Do it the natural way.

I ran through the instructions in my head. I was going to put it into practice.

Taeyeon here I come!

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I followed behind Tiffany. 

She was in such a hurry that I had slight difficulty keeping up.

I swear she wouldn’t even notice if I sneaked up behind her now. She was mumbling under her breath.

If that was the Tiffany that I have known for so long, I would bet that she’s running through what she read online.

I can’t wait to see how she would execute it.

Finally we arrived at Taeyeon’s Dorm.

I climbed up the stairs following behind Tiffany.

She pushed the doorbell.

The door opened shortly.

“Hi Fany. What’s up?” I heard a voice say.

I saw Tiffany ‘trip’ over the doorstep while reaching out for the person who opened the door.

It must be Taeyeon. 

I couldn’t hold back a laugh. 

That was so tacky.

“Hi Taeyeon.” I said while stifling my laughter as I appeared in the doorway.

I saw that her expression changed to that of slight astonishment. 

“Oh..Hey Jessica..You’re here too.” She said.

I think she was half embarrassed that I was there because Tiffany was totally hugging her.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

I hope Taeyeon opens the door.

Trip, reach, hug. Trip, reach, hug.

  I chanted in my head.

The door opened.

It’s Taeyeon! God is on my side!

Oh I’m supposed to trip.

I tripped.

Now I’m supposed to reach for her.

I reached for her.

Hold her tight Tiffany! 

I hugged her real tight.

Success!!!

“Hi Taeyeon.” I heard Jessica’s voice coming from behind me.

Why is she here? Anyway it doesn’t matter. It’s ‘Mission Skinship’ now.

“Oh..Hey Jessica..You’re here too.” I heard Taeyeon say.

She sounded weird. 

I hope I didn’t make it too obvious!

I remembered a sentence from ‘Skinship 101’ - Always make it as subtle as possible

Tiffany Hwang remember! Subtle!

I released Taeyeon from my grip. 

“Hi Taeyeon sorry about that. The hug felt good though.”  I said shyly.

“Oh err it’s ok. I wouldn’t want you to fall flat on your pretty face.” 

Did she just call me pretty! It is totally working Tiffany Hwang. 

Skinship 101 Jjang!

“So what brings you here too Jessica?” Taeyeon questioned.

“Oh I just wanted to share some good news with the both of you.” Jessica said.

Opportunity! 

I slipped my hands into Taeyeon’s hands.

“Let’s all sit down and talk.” I dragged Taeyeon towards the couch.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective 

“Oh I just wanted to share some good news with the both of you.” I said in answer to Taeyeon’s question.

Tiffany grabbed Taeyeon’s hands immediately.

Tiffany is such an opportunist.

I saw that Taeyeon looked slightly uneasy at that moment.

Poor Taeyeon she must be embarrassed.

We all sat down on the couch.

“So anyway. I confessed to him.” I said.

“You did? You really did??” Tiffany exclaimed.

“Yes I did.” I replied.

“He likes me too.” I said while playing with my own fingers.

“Wow Jess! I’m glad for you!” 

Tiffany reached for Taeyeon’s hands and grabbed it.

“Aren’t you happy for her too Taetae?” 

I almost snorted a laugh but I held back.

Tiffany was overly enthusiastic. She was SO obvious.

Taeyeon looked like she was going to suffocate. Her ears had already turned a deep red.

“Oh..Yes..Yes.” Taeyeon stammered.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I opened the door and I saw Tiffany tripping over. 

Was there a slight pause before she tripped? Or did I see wrong.

Before I knew it, Tiffany was in my arms.

What’s going on. I can’t deal with this right now.

Suddenly I heard 

her

 voice. It said my name.

She’s here too!?

I realized I displayed my astonishment. I quickly tried to hide it.

“Oh..Hey Jessica..You’re here too.” 

I was stammering? What’s wrong with me. Cool down Kim Taeyeon.

“Hi Taeyeon sorry about that. The hug felt good though.”  I heard Tiffany say.

“Oh err it’s ok. I wouldn’t want you to fall flat on your pretty face.” I replied without thought.

“So what brings you here too Jessica?” I asked curious.

“Oh I just wanted to share some good news with the both of you.” She sang.

Good news? Don’t tell me she wants to talk about me to us?

I tried to hide my uneasiness. 

I was oblivious to my surroundings. All I was doing was to try to calm myself down inside.

I was coping well. Until I heard her say shyly “He likes me too.”

My my what am I going to do now? 

I could feel my ears burning. 

Though, I’m happy that she is happy that I like her. I have the luxury of knowing how she feels. I have the luxury of looking at her expression when she talks about me.

It's kinda sweet to know.

My thoughts got interrupted when Tiffany shot me a question. I didn’t even realise that she was holding on to my hands.

“Oh..Yes..Yes.” I said unsure of what she actually asked.

“Anyway where’s that nice music coming from?” Tiffany asked as she stood up.

“It seems like it is coming from Taeyeon’s room.” Jessica said.

“Oh yes it’s just the radio.” I replied.

“I didn’t know you listened to this radio station too. The songs are so beautiful aren’t they?” Jessica said swooning.

Tiffany was walking towards my room.

I jumped up in sudden realization.

I ran towards Tiffany.

“Fany ah No!” I shouted.

I grabbed her hands just in time. 

She turned to look at me. She was probably startled.

My god I have to improvise. Think of something Kim Taeyeon. 

“Don’t just stand up and walk away from me like that.” 

Crap that’s such a lie. How can she believe that my outburst was just because of that. I’m such a bad liar.

She blushed. “Aww Taetae you’re so sweet.” 

Goodness that actually worked?

Suddenly two heads popped out of Yoona’s room.

“Oh everyone is here. What’s up with all that shouting anyway Taeyeon Uhn-nee?” Yoona asked.

“It’s nothing.” I said in my most casual voice.

“Anyway let’s all go for lunch together? Yuri and I are starving and we are feeling lazy.” Yoona said to all of us.

“Sure let’s do.” Tiffany said happily while she held my hands.

What did you just do Kim Taeyeon. This isn't helping matters. 

I sighed in my head as I shut my door tight.

I didn’t want anyone walking in and chancing upon my conversation with Jessica.

This was too risky.

Now, I have a secret that I couldn’t share with anyone. 

I buried it deep in my heart. 

Chapter 19

Taeyeon’s Perspective

We walked to the nearest food stall in the vicinity.

Yuri and Yoona were walking hand in hand.

Tiffany was holding on to mine.

I looked at Jessica.

She was walking alone.

She didn’t seem upset now. Instead she seemed really happy.

That made my heart flutter.

I smiled unconsciously.

I wish I could hold her hands.

The more I thought the more troubled I got.

I looked at my own hands. They were clasped tightly in Tiffany’s.

I have too many problems to take care of right now.

How am I supposed to manage when Jessica realises that GDragon ain’t Drag0nBz?

If she doesn’t find out. It’s fine. But is that even possible?

Tiffany is so stuck on me right now. Will I even be able to let her know how I truly feel. It’s going to be tough. Especially with what I just did. 

Kim Taeyeon why are you so dumb??

If Jessica knows I’m Drag0nBz will she feel the same way?

If she knows, and she accepts me. How are we going to deal with Tiffany?

After all the both of them are best friends.

Will I get to be with Jessica ever?

What have I done to be in such a big mess?

My head was bursting with thoughts. 

My heart was overwhelmed with feelings.

I felt love, I felt happy, I felt confused, I felt pain. 

Most of all, I worried that if I didn’t handle this well. 

I would end up hurting the one and only girl I love. 

Jessica Jung.

“Taetae why are you so quiet?” Tiffany was concerned at my silence.

“Oh I’m just hungry.” I lied.

Am I going to become a big fat liar now?

I hated liars. I hate myself.

*** 

Yuri’s Perspective

“Don’t you think it’s so weird today.” I asked Yoona privately.

The other three were walking in the front.

“What’s weird baby?” Yoona looked towards me.

“Well I don’t know. I can’t place a finger on it.” I scratched my head.

“Something just doesn’t make sense here. Taeyeon feels weird today. She isn’t herself.” I concluded.

“Now that you mention, I think so too. Yesterday she was still so reserved around Tiffany Uhn-nee. Now they’re so close. Maybe something happened last night?” Yoona 

analysed.

“Maybe…” I said unconvinced.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

We were on the way to get some lunch.

Somehow it didn’t feel as bad to be surrounded by two couples now.

Deep inside I knew I had someone too.

I kept thinking of the part where he told me ‘I love you.’

It was such a wonderful feeling.

Somehow I was too obsessed with my thoughts that I carelessly tripped over my own foot. 

Woah!

I was falling forward.

“Aahhhhh!” I shut my eyes.

My face was going to hit the ground any moment now. I braced for the impact.

*Thud*

My shoulders hit something alright. It didn’t hurt though.

It was soft?

It felt like arms?

I opened my eyes. I looked up.

It was Taeyeon?

She caught me before I fell flat? Wow she’s fast.

We were in an awkward position. Her right arm was wrapped around me. My right shoulder was against her right shoulder. 

“Thanks.” I said as I pulled away.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

We were just walking along the path when suddenly Jessica screamed.

Before I even knew what was going on, I felt Taeyeon fling my hand aside.

I looked over and I saw her spin around to catch Jessica.

Phew 

I was relieved that she did. 

Taetae is such a hero.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I’m glad I was looking at her from the corner of my eye all this time.

I saw her trip over her own foot and fall forward.

I shot forward, spun around and caught her.

I was amazed at my own speed.

I just didn’t want anything bad to happen to her.

I realised I had my arms around her. She was leaning against me.

At that moment all I yearned for was to be close to her.

She pulled away.

Her scent was still lingering.

My heart was contracting.

I wanted her so bad.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

I held Taeyeon’s hands again as we made our way to the food stall.

We arrived in about 3 minutes.

We all sat down and we ordered our food.

“So what are we doing after this?” Yoona asked.

“Why don’t we go singing?” I suggested.

“Sure I love singing!” Jessica cried.

“Sure.” Taeyeon replied.

“If Yoona is ok I’m ok too.” Yuri said as usual.

The both of them were leeched to each other.

“I’m fine doing anything as long as Yuri is there.” Yoona added on.

The both of them gave us goose bumps sometimes.

We had our meal and then headed off.

I was excited. I was looking forward to Taeyeon’s singing.  

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

Jessica and Tiffany were skimming through the list of songs excitedly.

Yuri and Yoona were just cuddling. 

I wonder how she sounds when she sings.

Jessica pushed some buttons. It seems like she chose a song. 

“Ok Tiffany this is a duet sing it with me.” Jessica demanded.

“But I don’t know this song!” Tiffany whined.

“It doesn’t matter. That’s why there are lyrics right?” Jessica rebutted.

“But I don’t know the tune silly! Why don’t you ask someone else.” Tiffany looked at me.

Me? She wanted me to sing a duet with Jessica? You got to be kidding me.

“Taetae you know this song do you? I’m sure you know the song. Could you please please sing it with Jessica?” Tiffany begged me with puppy eyes.

I gave in.

Not because of her puppy eyes, but because part of me wanted to sing a duet with Jessica.

I looked at the screen.

Of all songs? It had to be this one?

It was Endless love by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross.

“Taeyeon you sing as Lionel Richie alright? My voice is higher pitched.” Jessica instructed.

“Ok.” My heart was thumping. 

I was about to sing a song that exactly describes how I feel with the girl I love.

I started first.

“My love..There’s only you in my life..The only thing that’s right.”

It was her turn.

“My first love..You’re every breath that I take. You’re every step I make.”

My knees almost gave way. Her voice was beautiful.

“And I, I want to share all my love with you. No one else will do”

I sang that sentence with feeling while looking at Jessica.

“And your eyes, they tell me how much you care..Oh, yes you will always be My endless love”

I hope she couldn't really tell from my eyes.

 I was conscious for a moment.

“Two hearts, Two hearts that beat as one. Our lives had just begun”

Our voices blended well together.

“Forever, I’ll hold you close in my arms. I can’t resist your charms”

She’s so beautiful.

“And love I’ll be a fool for you, I’m sure”

“You know I don’t mind”

“You know I don’t mind”

I’ll do anything for you.

“cause you, you mean the world to me. Oh, I know, I know I found in you My endless love”

“Oh and love, I’ll be that fool for you..I’m sure..you know I don’t mind”

“You know I don’t mind”

“And yes..You’ll be the only one..’cause no one can deny this love I have inside and I’ll give it all to you”

“My love, My endless love...” 

It was heart wrenching as we sang the last sentence. We were looking into each other’s eyes. 

For Jessica perhaps it didn’t mean anything yet. 

For me it was all real. 

The room was filled with clapping. “Taetae you’re so charming when you sing!” Tiffany screamed.

I faked a laugh.

I placed the microphone down and walked to my seat.

Chapter 20

Jessica’s Perspective

It was quite a day. We all had fun.

I went back and the first thing I did was again to switch on my computer.

I wonder if his internet connection is fixed yet.

I’ll just wait for him nonetheless.

I waited for the screen to load.

Hmm. He isn’t online. I’ll just shower first. Hopefully he’ll come on when I’m back.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I was just done showering. 

I sat in front of my computer.

It was switched on.

The internet cable was still unplugged.

I plugged it in.

I went online in invisible mode.

I saw that Jessica was online.

Should I or should I not? I have got to do something about it.

I was thinking hard. It was really difficult for me to decide on an action.

I was too unsure. The only thing I was sure about was that I love her.

It’s too tormenting to see that she’s there and yet refrain myself from chatting to her.

I have been cautious all my life. I have lived by the rule of not doing something that I would regret.

At this particular point in my life. The worst part is that either way I may end up having regrets.

If I don’t treasure the moments I have with her now I may regret in the future.

If I just leave it be, I may also regret not taking action. 

I am in total emotional turmoil.

I clicked a button.

No I didn’t shut down the computer. I decided to appear online.

Instantly I got a message from her.

Indeed. She was waiting.

IcePrinc3ss:

 Hi love. You don’t mind if I call you that do you?

Drag0nBz:

 Of course I don’t mind. That is if you really love me.

Again I went with the flow. This was rare. I’ve always planned for things. 

I have never ever been in such a situation ever before.

IcePrinc3ss:

 Why would you say something like that? I definitely love you.

Drag0nBz:

 You can never be too sure.

IcePrinc3ss:

 Why are you saying things like that? You’re making me upset.

Drag0nBz:

 What if one day you realised I wasn’t who your thought I was?

IcePrinc3ss:

 I’ll still love you all the same. What if you found out who I was and you stopped loving me?

Drag0nBz:

 I would never. I know that I love you. I don’t have to know who you are in real life. I have already fallen for you before that. It’s the truth I speak.

IcePrinc3ss:

 You sound like you don’t want me to tell you who I am. Don’t you want to hold my hands? Don’t you want to hold me close?

I do. But can I? 

What can I do? I feel so helpless.

Drag0nBz:

 It’s not that. I’m just not who you think I am ok. I don’t think you’ll ever want to be with me.

IcePrinc3ss:

 What do you mean by that? I don’t get you. So you’re saying you’re not GDragon?

Drag0nBz:

 Yes I’m not GDragon.

IcePrinc3ss:

 Ok. So what? I love you for who you are. Not because you’re GDragon. Unless you’re telling me you’re a girl or else why can’t we be together?

That’s precisely what I am. A girl. 

My heart twitched in pain. 

I knew that Jessica has always liked guys, but what could hurt more than hearing from her that I had no chance at all?

Tears rolled down my cheeks. 

Drag0nBz:

 Let’s not talk about this anymore alright. I’m sorry I confessed to you. I should never have done that. To make life easier for you, please forget all that. Trust me I’m not worth it. Let’s end it now. It would be less painful for you.

Every inch of my heart ached. 

I chose to hurt her now to hurt her less. Did I do the right thing?

Chapter 21

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I was laying in bed. I stared at the ceiling.  

I still didn’t know if I did the right thing.

I logged off immediately after that sentence.

My tears were still flowing. 

At least I’m still her friend. 

Maybe I should see how she is.

I’m sure she is feeling really upset now.

I wiped my tears away. 

I washed my face and freshened up.

I silenced my phone so that if anyone were to call, she wouldn’t have to hear my ringtone.

Though, it was meant for IcePrinc3ss all along. 

I’ll have to change it soon.

I arrived at the base of her 2nd story flat.

I looked up at her window. The lights were still on.

I went up. I knocked on the door.

Soon after, the door opened. Jessica was standing there.

Her eyes were puffy again. She had been crying. 

It pains me to know that. But I can’t do anything to stop it.

“Hi Taeyeon. Here for Tiffany? She’s asleep already.” She said and proceeded to shut the door.

I was anxious to know how she was. Without thinking I stuck my hands through the gap. 

The door shut on my fingers.

It hurt so bad; but it could not compare to the pain I felt inside.

She hurriedly pulled the doors open.

“Oh my god Taeyeon what in the world were you trying to do?? Are you ok??” She asked worried.

“It’s ok. It didn’t hurt that bad. I just wanted to umm. I need to use the bathroom urgently.” I didn’t want to cause her unnecessary worry.

“You risked your fingers just to use the bathroom? I don’t think you’re thinking. Ok but anyway come on in.” 

Of course I wasn’t thinking. All I can think of is you. 

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I heard Taeyeon give a muffled yelp as I shut the door on what I think were her fingers. 

I got a shock. What in the world was she thinking?

“Oh my god Taeyeon what in the world were you trying to do?? Are you ok??” I was worried. 

She didn’t seem like she could move her fingers. It must have been quite painful.

“It’s ok. It didn’t hurt that bad. I just wanted to umm. I need to use the bathroom urgently.” 

Didn’t hurt? You think your fingers are made of steel?

“You risked your fingers just to use the bathroom? I don’t think you’re thinking. Ok but anyway come on in.” I invited her in.

I felt better that someone was around and awake. At least I didn’t have to feel so alone. But she’ll be gone when she’s done using the bathroom. 

I sat on the couch and waited for Taeyeon to be done. 

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I went into the toilet. I shut the door. 

Ok now what? Am I going to just leave when I go out? No. I didn’t come here to get my fingers clamped on, use the bathroom, and then leave.

How should I get her to open up to me. Ok maybe I’ll start with her puffy eyes.

I pushed the flush button with my good hand.

Red indentations could be seen on my other hand. They still felt stiff. I better hide that hand and not let her see it.

I stepped out of the bathroom.

Hmm. Where is she?

I walked out to the living area to find her sitting on the couch. 

She looked up at me.

“Why are your eyes so red and puffy?” I asked.

“It’s nothing. I think it’s because of dust.” She lied.

I knew she was totally lying. Why can’t she just open up?

Is it too painful for her to talk about?

The thought of her pain almost made my tears flow. I used all I had to hold my tears back.

“Jessica know that I’m here for you no matter what happens ok?” I blurted out.

“Yeah sure. Since you offered can we watch a show together? Tiffany is asleep and I’m bored.” Jessica asked.

“Sure let’s do that. Why not.” I replied.

I’m glad I can be here by her side.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I heard the bathroom door. Taeyeon must be done.

Soon I’ll be left alone again. Left alone to cry.

Left alone by Drag0nBz. I can’t believe he decided to abandon me. 

It was too painful to think about. 

My eyes turned red.

“Why are your eyes so red and puffy?” Taeyeon asked.

I looked up and saw her staring down at me.

“It’s nothing. I think it’s because of dust.” I lied.

I couldn’t talk about it. I wouldn’t be able to stop crying if I did. The pain I felt inside was too great.

“Jessica know that I’m here for you no matter what happens ok?” Taeyeon suddenly said.

Does she know? But I haven’t told anyone yet. Maybe she can tell that I’ve been crying.

I should ask her to stay for a movie. At least it will keep my mind off Drag0nBz for a while.

“Yeah sure. Since you offered can we watch a movie together? Tiffany is asleep and I’m bored.” I requested of her.

Taeyeon agreed. 

I’m glad she did. I didn’t have to be alone. For now.

“Anyway let’s watch the show on my computer in my room. I don’t want to wake Tiffany up.” I tugged on Taeyeon’s sleeve. 

She seemed to be dazing. 

Her eyes seemed slightly puffy too. 

We went into my room. I just picked a random show from the pile in the living room. Taeyeon left it behind when she left the other day. 

I placed the DVD in the Slot and played the show.

Taeyeon was standing in the middle of my room. 

“What are you doing? Here let’s sit on my bed and watch.” I sat down.

Taeyeon was staring at the DVD case. 

***

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I thought I saw wrong. 

Did she just pick ‘Wicker Park’? Is she crazy? Watching that show now?

She asked me to take a seat on her bed. 

I walked over and sat down beside her. 

I left a gap between us. 

The show started. 

Throughout the show I kept sneaking glances at her. 

I could sense Jessica’s pain when she watched the main character Matthew. 

Tears were rolling down her cheeks. 

She must be thinking of us. How I ‘left’ her, Just like how Lisa left Matthew.

Why did she have to pick this show. I wanted to wipe away her tears for her. 

I know I shouldn’t. 

I continued watching the show, and then came one scene. A section of ‘Strange and Beautiful by Aqualung’ played.

“I've been watching your world from afar, 

I've been trying to be where you are, 

And I've been secretly falling apart, 

I'll see. 

To me, you're strange and you're beautiful, 

You'd be so perfect with me but you just can't see, 

You turn every head but you don't see me.“

It was painful. It totally expressed everything that I felt. 

I looked at Jessica. I needed her. 

Tears rolled down my cheeks too.

Then came the last scene. Matthew and Lisa finally met again. 

They have been kept apart for so long, yet they have never stopped loving each other.

After so long they could finally be together again.  

The both of us were crying together. 

In that moment we were crying for the same reason. 

We knew that we could not be with the one we love.

Chapter 22

Jessica’s Perspective

Taeyeon had just left to go back to her own flat. It was the first time I saw her cry. 

The only difference was that I was crying for Drag0nBz and she was crying for the show. 

I was tired from all that crying, but still I couldn’t stop my tears from flowing. 

I cried myself to sleep.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

I opened Jessica’s room door. She was laying in bed still. There was tissue all over her bed.

Did she catch a cold?

“Hey Jess wake up, it’s time for school.” I shook her slightly. 

She opened her eyes. It seemed slightly swollen.

“Jess is everything ok?” I was concerned.

Something didn’t feel right. 

“I’m fine.” As she said that I thought I saw a glint of pain in her eyes.

“Ok get dressed. I’ll wait for you outside.” I walked out.

I ate my cereal while I waited for her.

I offered her a bowl when she came out but she rejected it.

“I don’t feel like cereal today.”

I finished my cereal quickly. 

I called Taeyeon and told her that we’ll see her at the fork.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I walked down the path. I saw Tiffany waving happily to me.

Jessica was just standing by the corner. She was staring blankly.

“Good Morning girls.” I faked a happy smile.

I wanted to cheer her up.

“Good morning Taetae!” Tiffany hooked my arms.

“Good morning…” Jessica said walking ahead of us.

We arrived in school.

We were about to walk into class when I heard a male voice. “Jessica?”  

We all turned. It was GDragon.

I remembered what happened on Saturday…

Tiffany confessed on Jessica’s behalf.

I was panicking slightly. 

“The two lovers finally meet.” Tiffany whispered in my ears.

Oh..Nobody but Jessica and I knew about last night yet.

 It seems like she didn’t tell Tiffany yet. 

“I heard from your friend there that you like me? Let’s give it a shot?” GDragon said while pointing at Tiffany.

Crap. What’s Jessica going to do now.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective               

“Jessica?” I heard someone call my name.

Is it DragonBz? But he doesn’t know who I am. 

I turned my head. 

Oh…It’s only GDragon.

Somehow when I saw GDragon I had a weird feeling in my heart. 

Have I have imprinted all my feelings for Drag0nBz onto him?

“I heard from your friend there that you like me? Let’s give it a shot?” He asked me.

“Ok.” I replied.

Anyway I didn’t have Drag0nBz anymore. It really doesn’t matter. 

Maybe it’ll work. Maybe GDragon can help me to forget DragonBz. GDragon is the closest I can get to Drag0nBz now.

I walked into class. 

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

The words that came out of Jessica’s mouth were ringing in my ears.

My head was spinning. 

Did she just agree to go out with that freak?

Did I cause all this?

I stood rooted to the ground.

“Taetae. Taetae?” Tiffany was calling out to me. 

Oh. Class.

 I remembered.

I walked into the room. 

*** 

Yuri’s Perspective

I gave Yoona a quick kiss goodbye as she headed for her own class. 

GDragon just asked Jessica to be his girlfriend. We all witnessed it.

That was not the only thing I witnessed.

Did Taeyeon just get affected by Jessica’s reply?

Something is going on. I need to find out. 

I took out my phone. I typed out a message to Yoona.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

Class was finally over. GDragon was waiting for Jessica outside.

“Hi Jessica. Let’s go grab a bite together?” He asked when he saw her.

She nodded.

What is she doing? Didn’t she say that she loves me? Ok not me but Drag0nBz. What is the difference anyway. We are one. 

GDragon held her hands and they walked on ahead.

MY GOD. He’s HOLDING HER HANDS? GET YOUR FILTHY HANDS OFF HER!

I wanted to walk over and toss him aside but I was in no position to do so.

I gritted my teeth.

Tiffany held my hands and we walked behind the pair.

“Taeyeon ah, Fany ah. Yoona and I will not join you alright. We have plans.”

With that Yuri left. 

We walked into the canteen and we sat at a long table. 

I sat opposite of GDragon while Tiffany sat across of Jessica.

“Taetae lets go and get your favourite rice cakes.” Tiffany said standing up.

“No Tiffany. I’ll get it for the all of us. You stay here.” I insisted.

I didn’t want Jessica here alone with GDragon. God knows what he would do.

“If you were a gentleman you would also offer to get drinks.” I hinted while staring at GDragon.

“Oh ok what would you girls like?” 

We told him and he left to buy the drinks.

After I bought the rice cakes I took the tray and walked back to our seat. 

He was already back with the drinks.

His hands were all over Jessica.

I was mad. Really mad. 

I was about to set the tray down when I saw that he was about to place his hands on Jessica’s thighs.

No way!

I tilted the tray and spilled some sauce onto his shoulder.

That will teach you.

He jumped up. “Watch it Taeyeon!”

I knew that he didn’t fancy me much. I had always ‘protected’ Yoona from him previously.

“Oh I’m SO sorry. I didn’t mean it. It was an honest mistake.” I faked an apology.

He sat back down trying to wipe the stain away.

That should keep him busy for a while.

We started eating. I took my hot cup of tea and sipped on it. 

He picked up his chopsticks and attempted to feed Jessica.

I swear he was totally lusting after her.

My blood was boiling. 

She seemed reluctant but she still accepted it anyway.

I wanted to kill myself! Why did I not just come clean and tell Jessica that I’m Drag0nBz.

Now I have to watch this stupid scene unfold right in front of my eyes.

I set my cup of tea down onto the table.

A sudden idea struck me.

I positioned the cup nicely. 

I took aim and I let out a cry “Wow Look at that Bird!”

I shot my hands forward with precision.

The cup toppled over so nicely that the hot tea only splattered on GDragon.

Jessica was fine.

I smiled inside.

He jumped up again. 

This time he was spewing vulgarities.

Jessica seemed stunned at how uncouth he was.

I was secretly happy.

Tiffany defended me. “Shut up it was unintentional. How can you scold a girl like this. You are really an airhead.”

“Let’s go.” Tiffany said.

“And Jess you don’t deserve a guy like this.” Tiffany grabbed her hands and pulled her along.

He continued yelling at us.

Jessica seemed slightly embarrassed for him.

I sure hope she doesn’t see him anymore.

Chapter 23

Yuri’s Perspective

Yoona and I were quietly huddling at the corner. We lied that we had plans.

Well technically this was our plan. We were going to observe Taeyeon.

“You see I told you that Taeyeon likes Jessica. Just look at the way she’s gritting her teeth when GDragon is holding Jessica.” I told Yoona.

“Hmmm. Yes baby you really are observant. I never noticed.” Yoona said pinching her lips.

The four of them walked on. They sat down.

Tiffany stood up. 

Taeyeon sat her down. It seemed like she said something to GDragon. 

The both of them got up to buy stuff.

“See I think Taeyeon did not want to leave Jessica alone with GDragon. That’s my guess.” I analysed.

“You are a genius. Why are you so observant when it comes to other but you didn’t realise that I was seducing you at the Convenience store?” Yoona said cheekily.

“Because you were too sleek.” I kissed her lips.

“Now now let’s not get too carried away.”I pulled away.

We continued watching.

“Did Taeyeon uhn-nee just spill sauce on him?” Yoona laughed.

“Yes I think it’s because he wanted to place his hands on Jessica’s thighs.” I was still looking intently.

“Hey baby look. I think Taeyeon’s going to spill tea on GDragon. Just watch how she positions the cup. Wait for it baby.” 

She shot her hands forward.

I smirked.

Yoona looked at me in disbelief. “Baby you really are a genius!”

“Yes. Let’s go. We’ll ask Taeyeon about it later.” I held Yoona’s hands as she gazed at me admiringly.

We walked back to Yoona’s flat.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I arrived back at my dorm.

I opened the door to see two figures sitting on the couch.

“Oh didn’t the both of you have plans?” I asked surprised to see them there.

“Oh yes we did. This is our plan.” Yuri replied.

Huh? Their plan was to sit on the couch?

“Taeyeon you know something. I realised that you look at Jessica too deeply and lovingly sometimes. And just now when you saw GDragon and Jessica together you were jealous.” Yuri continued.

I was speechless.

Was I that obvious?

“So Taeyeon uhn-nee. Do you like Jessica uhn-nee or Tiffany uhn-nee?” Yoona questioned.

“I..I..” I sighed.

“It’s a long story girls.” I sat down.

“We’ll listen.” The both of them said in unison.

Part of me was glad. I could finally share my burden with someone else.

I told them the whole story about Jessica and I chatting online and all that happened.

They nodded.

“So why did you kiss Tiffany uhn-nee that night? You even told her you love her?” Yoona asked puzzled.

“OH. That one. I swear I have no recollection of what happened. I must have been sleep talking again. You should know that Yoona! I’m sure I was thinking of Jessica when I said I love you.” I explained.

“Ok now it all makes sense. So what are you going to do about the situation? You realise you are in a big mess don’t you?” Yuri looked at me saying.

“I know but there is no solution to this problem. The only thing I can do is to stand by Jessica and watch over her silently.”

“And what are you going to do with Tiffany? You realise that the longer you drag the more painful it will be for her don’t you?” Yuri pointed out.

“I know. I don’t know how to reject her but I should do it soon enough.”

Just then we heard the doorbell.

I stood up to open the door.

It was Jessica. 

I was happy to see her. I didn’t expect her.

She was holding the DVD Wicker Park.

“Here you left this at my place. Thought I should return it.” She stuck it in my hands and left.

That was abrupt.

I shut the door and went back to my conversation with the both of them.

“So how do you think I should tell Tiffany?” I asked bothered.

“Just tell her it was all a misunderstanding? Let her down gently alright. She deserves to know.” Yuri advised.

“Though if I were single I would win her heart to save you the trouble.” Yuri said mischievously.

Yoona glared at her. “I dare you to say that once more Kwon Yuri!” 

“I said I would win Tiffany’s heart if I were single. But now that I have you nobody else will do. I just love you and you alone.” 

The both of them were really made for each other.

I walked to the phone and dialled the number to Tiffany’s flat.

“Hello.” It sounded like Jessica.

“Hi Jessica. It’s Taeyeon here. May I speak to Tiffany please?” 

She didn’t say anything. I could hear that she placed the receiver down on the table. 

I heard her in the background. “Tiffany. Taeyeon’s on the line.”

Why was she so cold? Was she mad because of what I did to GDragon.

“Hi Taetae you’re looking for me?” Tiffany chirped.

“Yes Fany. We need to talk. Can you come over?”

“Sure. I’ll see you in a bit.” We hung up.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

Taetae wants to talk? I wonder what it is about.

I took my keys and made for Taeyeon’s flat.

I walked up the stairs. I could hear the TV in the background.

I knocked. I heard footsteps.

Taeyeon opened the door.

“Oh Fany you’re here already.” She said solemnly.

Something doesn’t feel right.

I went in.

“Here sit down Fany.”

“Ok.” I sat down.

“I have something to tell you. I know I shouldn’t have waited till today. I should have done so earlier. I just didn’t know how to do it. Well you remember our first kiss?”

I blushed.

“It wasn’t real.”

I looked up at her confused. 

What did she mean by it wasn’t real?

“I know you’re confused right now. I have the habit of sleep talking and sleep walking. I do that a lot when I’m stressed. I must have mistakenly said I love you and you took it the wrong way. I don’t mean that you’re a bad girl or anything but I don’t feel for you that way.”

Did she just drop a bomb on me. 

“You mean it was a one sided affair all along?” I clarified.

“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to hurt you. It was an honest misunderstanding.” Taeyeon said apologetically.

I could tell that she was guilt ridden.

“It’s ok Taetae. I’ll make sure I win your heart one day.” I said resolutely.

I was not hurt. I was determined.

Chapter 24

Tiffany’s Perspective

I returned to my dorm.

Jessica was sitting in the living room.

It seemed like she was waiting for me.

“Hi Jess.”

“Hi Tiffany. Is everything fine?” She asked.

“Yes everything is fine. Why would you ask that? Taeyeon just told me that the kiss was all a misunderstanding. I’m still bent on winning her heart though.” 

I poured a cup of juice and joined Jessica in the living area.

“She explained to me that she was actually sleep talking. Well I actually did the kissing not her. All she did was say I love you in her sleep. Kind of hilarious don’t you think? Well at least I got to kiss her.” 

The memory of the kiss lingered till today. I touched my lips and giggled.

“Tiffany you’re really hopeless sometimes. Did she tell you anything else?” Jessica probed.

“Anything else? No. What else can she tell me about? She just told me it was all a great big misunderstanding and she didn’t feel that way towards me. I swear she’s going to fall for me one day. You’re going to help me make that happen right?” I looked over at my best friend.

She was spacing out.

“Jessica?” I called out.

“You’re going to help me right?”

“Oh yes. Sure. Why not. You’re my best friend.” Jessica replied.

I hugged her. “I love you Jessica. You will always be my best friend.”

“Why don’t we plan for a trip or something?I may be able to get close to her then.” I squealed excitedly.

“Sure. You should speak to Yuri and Yoona about it too. Anyway Spring break is next week so it sounds like a plan.” Jessica concurred.

“I’ll call them now. We can leave this Saturday!” I made for the phone excitedly. 

*** 

Yoona’s Perspective

“Yoona ah can you get the phone! I’m busy cooking!” Taeyeon Uhn-nee shouted.

“Oops..” I looked at Yuri. 

We stopped whatever we were doing and we went to get the phone.

“Hello Kwon residence.” Yoona joked.

“Ya yaaa yaaaa Yoona ah what if it’s my parents on the line! Quit joking!” Taeyeon uhn-nee chided.

“Hey Mrs Kwon it’s Tiffany here. Want to go for a trip during Spring break?”

“Sounds like a plan. I would love to! It would be my first trip with Yuri.” I was excited at the thought.

“Great! Why don’t you ask the rest? We can discuss it over dinner tonight? How’s that?” Tiffany suggested.

“Sure! I’ll get Taeyeon uhn-nee to cook for us all!” Taeyeon uhn-nee shot me a dagger stare.

“Ok I’ll bring Jessica over in a bit! Bye!”

I placed the phone back on its hook.

I looked at Taeyeon uhn-nee with puppy eyes. “Taeyeon uhn-nee could you please cook for Tiffany..” 

“and JESSICA!” I grinned cheekily.

“Yaaaa yaaa yaaay YAAaaa! Im Yoona!” Taeyeon Uhn-nee shouted.

I laughed. 

“Yoona quit joking for a while.” Yuri said in a serious voice.

I looked at her and nodded.

“Taeyeon ah so did you clear the air with Tiffany yet?” Yuri asked.

“Yes I did but she seems determined to win my heart. She doesn’t know about Jessica though. Please keep that a secret from the both of them alright.” Taeyeon uhn nee said in an equally serious voice.

Yuri and I nodded.

“So what’s all that about a trip?” Yuri looked at me.

“Oh that! Tiffany asked if we would all like to go for a trip during spring break? That’s why they are coming over during dinner to discuss matters.”

“I would love to go on a trip with you Yoona. But I’m just worried for Taeyeon.” Yuri said throwing a glance at Taeyeon uhn-nee.

I looked over. 

“Why are the both of you looking at me like this? I’ll be fine. Everything will be FINE.” Taeyeon uhn-nee insisted.

“Sure let’s see you survive dinner first.” I laughed at Yuri’s comment.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I continued cooking. Thankfully it was spaghetti I was preparing tonight.

I took out more spaghetti and boiled it in salt water. 

The sauce was already simmering. Lucky for me I prepared extra as well.

The doorbell rang.

“Im Yoona! Get the door!” I shouted.

She ignored me.

I walked towards the door in annoyance.

I opened the door. 

“Hi Fany, Hi Sica.” 

I went back to the kitchen.

It was an open kitchen right beside the living and dining area. 

“Wow you look cute in that apron.” Tiffany commented.

“Thanks.” I said sheepishly.

Jessica just sat on the couch and switched on the TV.

What’s the matter with her? Why is she behaving in such an odd manner. It almost feels like she's ignoring me.

I thought to myself while I drained the water from the pasta.

Perhaps I was too absorbed in my thoughts that my hands slipped.

The pot banged loudly against the sink. The hot water splashed onto my hand. 

It was the same hand that was bruised from that night.

I cried out in pain.

I quickly rinsed my hands in cold water.

Tiffany was already by my side.

“Taetae are you ok. Why are you so careless.” Tiffany said while running cold water over my hands.

I turned to see that Yuri and Yoona were walking towards me concerned. 

Jessica was just watching TV like nothing happened.

She doesn’t even care for me as a friend?

I was upset.

“Here let me continue Taeyeon uhn-nee.” Yoona offered to continue with the cooking.

Yuri took the apron off me.

Tiffany tenderly took my hands and brought me to the couch. 

“Yuri could you get the first aid kit? Is there medicine for burns?” Tiffany asked while blowing at my hands.

“Yes there is. I’ll get it.” Yuri ran off to the toilet.

I looked at Jessica and saw that she still had no reaction. 

Was she really mad at me because of this afternoon?

“Taetae why are your fingers bruised? How did you get them?” Tiffany started examining my fingers like she was a doctor.

I saw from the corner of my eye that Jessica’s expression changed slightly before it went back to normal again.

I couldn’t tell what that expression was. It was too quick.

“Oh it’s nothing. I accidentally slammed my hands when I was shutting a door.” 

Lie lie lie. Lie again Taeyeon. Why do you keep lying so much these days.

Yuri came back with the kit and handed the medicine for burns to Tiffany.

Tiffany applied it on my hands gingerly. My hand was throbbing. 

“Taeyeon ah come on. Go get changed.” Yuri said as she took my right hand.

My left hand was pretty much immobile now. I was glad it wasn’t my right hand. 

We were in my room when Yuri said, “Jessica was worried about you when you dropped that pot. I saw it in her eyes. Then she saw Tiffany run over and she sat back down. Are you sure she doesn’t know you’re the one that was chatting to her online?”

“Yes I’m sure she doesn’t know it’s me.” I said confidently.

“Ok because that look in her eye that I saw. It didn’t seem like concern for a normal friend. Do you get what I mean?” 

“I guess I do. But remember what she said? She clearly implied that she doesn’t like girls. She’s as straight as an arrow.” I reproached Yuri for thinking too much.

“Fine.” Yuri said and left me to change.

*** 

Yuri’s Perspective

I walked out towards the living room.

I was still doubtful of what Taeyeon said. I know what I saw and I’m usually right.

That is when I’m not emotionally caught up in the situation.

Isn’t that always the case?

I went to the kitchen and helped Yoona to dish out the Spaghetti.

We set the food on the table and called the rest over.

It was a rectangular table placed against the wall.

I intentionally sat opposite Yoona so that the other three would definitely be sitting in a triangle. 

I winked at Yoona and she got the hint.

Tiffany sat down beside me. Jessica sat down beside Yoona. The ‘Chairman’ seat as some people call it was left for Taeyeon. Basically it’s the seat at the end of the table.

Perfect. She was going to be seated in between the two girls.

Taeyeon came out and sat down. I could tell that she was hesitant. 

She was hesitant to be between the two girls.

But she had no choice. So she took her seat.

We started eating.

“So about the trip. What’s the plan?” I started the ball rolling.

“Yes the trip! What should we do? Any suggestions?” Tiffany said excitedly.

Yoona and Tiffany started chattering enthusiastically. I left them to it. 

In the end we all decided on a camping trip.

I intentionally asked. “So how are we going to share the tent? Yoona and I definitely want our own privacy.”

“Taetae, Jessica and I can share one. It’s fine!” Tiffany said.

I saw worry in both Jessica and Taeyeon’s eyes. It was the same kind of worry I saw in their eyes.

I smiled to myself. This was definitely getting interesting.

Another idea formulated in my head. I stood up and asked “Anybody want any water?”

Nobody wanted any. So I looked at Yoona. “Yoona you want some hot water right?”

She obviously got my hint. We were very much in sync with each other. It was what I called telepathy.

“Yes darling I want some HOT water. Make sure it is really really hot or I won’t drink it.” Yoona emphasized greatly on hot. Exactly what I wanted.

“Yoona ah are you mad? Why do you want hot water?” Taeyeon said. 

I continued to the kitchen and filled the glass with room temperature water. Of course nobody else knew that.

I walked towards the girls. When I was near Jessica I faked a trip.

“Woaaaaahhhh Watch out Jessica!” I shouted.

Taeyeon scrambled to cover Jessica with her body. The water splashed all over Taeyeon’s back.

Tiffany stood up in shock. “Oh my god Taeyeon how many times do you want to scald yourself today.”

Jessica looked up at Taeyeon at the same time and said “Silly why did you do that for? Are you ok?”

I saw genuine concern in her eyes. I even saw a little more than concern. I saw something else.

“Don’t worry Taeyeon’s fine. We ran out of hot water. That was just normal water. She just has to get changed again.” I said and went back to my seat.

Jessica immediately turned away from Taeyeon and continued eating her Spaghetti.

She acted like nothing happened at all.

Tiffany was still recovering from shock as she sat down.

Wow Jessica is good. No wonder Taeyeon couldn’t tell.

Chapter 25

Jessica’s Perspective

Tiffany and I were walking to Taeyeon’s Flat. 

I was apprehensive.

Earlier today when I came back from school I saw that Wicker Park was still in my computer. 

Taeyeon left it behind. 

I decided to bring it to her.

I arrived at her flat. I was about to push on the doorbell when I heard them talking. 

I stopped my fingers when I heard the following sentence.

I think it was Yoona who said it. “Taeyeon uhn-nee so you’re the person that Jessica has been chatting to online all this time?”

Taeyeon is Drag0nBz?

 I held on to the railing for support.

“Yes I didn’t know it was Jessica until that night when Tiffany said it.” 

“I also confessed to her without thinking. I mean I love her but I shouldn’t have. I am causing her so much pain right now I feel like dying myself.”

So the person I’m so in love with is Taeyeon? 

I’m in love with a girl?

I stood there motionless. 

I couldn’t react. 

Part of me wanted to just leave. Part of me wanted to stand there and listen to every single bit of the conversation.

Since my feet were rooted to the ground. I stood there for the next 20 minutes. 

That two timing liar. How can she love me and Tiffany at the same time?

I fumed when I thought of the kiss that they shared. I fumed when she told me online that she loved me.

What was she trying to do?

Yoona asked the question on my behalf. “So why did you kiss Tiffany uhn-nee that night? You even told her you love her?” 

“OH. That one. I swear I have no recollection of what happened. I must have been sleep talking again. You should know that Yoona! I’m sure I was thinking of Jessica when I said I love you.” 

She was thinking of me? She really loves me that much.

“Ok now it all makes sense. So what are you going to do about the situation? You realise you are in a big mess don’t you?” 

Don’t worry I’ll do something about it. You don’t have to do anything.

“I know but there is no solution to this problem. The only thing I can do is to stand by Jessica and watch over her silently.”

“And what are you going to do with Tiffany? You realise that the longer you drag the more painful it will be for her don’t you?” 

“I know. I don’t know how to reject her but I should do it soon enough.”

No. I can’t let that happen. I can’t let that happen. If that happens I don’t know what I’ll do. I can’t allow it. 

I have to get out of here.

I pushed on the doorbell.

Taeyeon opened the door. “Here you left this at my place. Thought I should return it.”

I handed her the DVD and left.

I couldn’t bear a second longer around her.

There are too many reasons why.

I ran back to my dorm.

Coincidentally the phone rang when I stepped in.

I picked up the phone. I heard her voice. I couldn’t talk to her.

It was too much to ask now. I was mad at her.

I set the phone down. 

I called for Tiffany and I went to get a glass of water to cool down.

They hung up. I wonder what Taeyeon said.

“Hey Jess I’m heading over to Taeyeon’s ok? She wants to talk to me.”

That fast? I hope Tiffany will be fine. 

I was worried.

I sat down on the couch waiting for her to come back. 

I was concerned and worried, yet at the same time I was curious.

I felt ashamed.

I was very bothered. I was still rocking inside. The fact that Taeyeon was Drag0nBz was still hard to believe. 

I was mad at her. I was very mad at her.

I was mad at her for making me fall for her.

I was mad at her for lying to me.

I was mad at her for confessing to me.

I was mad at her for leading Tiffany on.

I was mad at her for wanting to clear things up with Tiffany.

Jessica Jung in love with a girl? Who would ever think that possible. This is crazy.

I hated Taeyeon for doing this to me. 

Why did she have to be so perfect? Why did she have to make it so difficult for me?

I can’t love her.

 But I already do. 

I have to stop loving her.

 But I don’t think I can.

Tiffany was the only thing that was holding me back right now. I needed Tiffany to be with Taeyeon.

I still couldn’t accept that I’m in love with a girl. 

I heard the door. 

Tiffany came in. “Hi Jess.”

She seems fine. It must mean that Taeyeon didn’t do it. 

In a way I was slightly relieved yet there was this strange feeling of jealousy inside.

“Hi Tiffany. Is everything fine?” 

I had to make sure.

“Yes everything is fine. Why would you ask that? Taeyeon just told me that the kiss was all a misunderstanding. I’m still bent on winning her heart though.” 

I’m glad that Tiffany is so determined. It will help me to hold back.

“She explained to me that she was actually sleep talking. Well I actually did the kissing not her. All she did was say I love you in her sleep. Kind of hilarious 

don’t you think? Well at least I got to kiss her.” 

It aggrieved me to picture their lips touching. 

“Tiffany you’re really hopeless sometimes. Did she tell you anything else?” I probed.

I think I’m the hopeless one now. I wonder if Taeyeon told Tiffany that she loves someone now. I hope not.

“Anything else? No. What else can she tell me about? She just told me it was all a great big misunderstanding and she didn’t feel that way towards me. I swear she’s 

going to fall for me one day……” 

Great. At least Tiffany doesn’t know Taeyeon already loves someone else. 

“Jessica?” Tiffany called out to me.

“You’re going to help me right?”

I need help myself too.

“Oh yes. Sure. Why not. You’re my best friend.”

I’m not going to allow you to get hurt because of me.

She hugged me. “I love you Jessica. You will always be my best friend.”

I was filled with guilt.

“Why don’t we plan for a trip or something?I may be able to get close to her then.” 

Maybe I can help them and at the same time help myself during the trip.

“Sure. You should speak to Yuri and Yoona about it too. Anyway Spring break is next week so it sounds like a plan.” I encouraged.

I sure hope it works out well. Tiffany must end up with Taeyeon. It is for everyone’s sake.

Tiffany was on the line with either Yoona or Yuri. They were discussing the trip.

I was too engrossed in my own thoughts that I didn’t hear anything they said.

I was still trying to digest the fact that I was in love with Taeyeon.

It was a fact I wished were fiction.

“Let’s head over to Taeyeon’s flat in a bit. She’s making dinner for us.” 

“Huh? Do we really have to?” I asked.

“Yes Jessica! It’s for my future. We’re discussing the trip.” Tiffany insisted.

“Ok.” I gave in. 

I went back to my room. I laid in bed.

I could still smell Taeyeon’s scent in my covers.

It bothered me. It made me miss her. 

I thought of her crying last night.

Was she crying because of me?

Everything made sense now.

She stuck her fingers in the door because she was concerned about me.

She knew I was upset. She wanted to console me.

Jessica Jung you idiot!

I teared silently.

“Jess are you ready? Let’s go over now.” Tiffany shouted.

I hurriedly wiped my tears. “Coming!”

*** 

We were at Taeyeon’s doorstep. 

Ok Jessica. Remember what you have to do.

Taeyeon opened the door. I couldn’t bear to look at her.

I walked right in and switched on the TV. I needed a distraction.

Suddenly I heard a loud crash coming from the kitchen. 

Was it Taeyeon! Is she ok? I hope she isn’t hurt.

I half stood and then I saw Tiffany running over.

I sat down full of worry.

I wanted to run over. I wanted to see if everything is ok.

I wanted to but no I’m not going to allow it.

Taeyeon is a girl. So am I. It’s not right. It’s not right.

Everyone was in the kitchen. It was chaotic. It was exactly the same in my heart. 

I pulled a straight face. I was good at that.

Tiffany brought Taeyeon over. She sat down beside me.

I wanted to look over at her but I know I shouldn’t.

I could not afford to display any signs of affection right now.

I should not be showing her any concern.

Tiffany mentioned the bruises on Taeyeon’s fingers. 

My heart twitched. The pain displayed momentarily on my face.

It was a difficult evening for me.

I wonder how long more I could act unconcerned.

I was good at hiding my emotions but this time round what I felt inside was so intense it was really easier said than done.

Taeyeon went in to change. I could breathe normally again.

I didn’t notice that I was holding my breath when she sat down beside me.

It was time for dinner. 

Yuri and Yoona sat down. There were 3 seats left. 

Tiffany sat beside Yuri. I had to seat beside Yoona. I didn’t want to come between Taeyeon and Tiffany.

I wished that I didn’t have to sit beside Taeyeon. But either way I didn’t have a choice.

I focused on my food. I had to especially with Taeyeon in such close proximity.

I could feel her eyes on me. 

The intensity of her gaze was so strong that I almost couldn’t control my emotions.

I was thankful that Tiffany was there. 

It helped me.

Yuri stood up to get water for Yoona.

I couldn’t be bothered about water. I just wanted to finish my food and leave. 

I poked at my Spaghetti.

“Woaaaaahhhh Watch out Jessica!” 

Huh? What’s going on?

Taeyeon lunged her body towards me.

No Taeyeon don’t come so close. I may lose control.

I heard water splashing.

Tiffany stood up in shock. “Oh my god Taeyeon how many times do you want to scald yourself today.”

My god! Hot water? Did Yuri just pour hot scalding water over Taeyeon? Taeyeon blocked me from the Hot water?

At that moment all my real emotions flowed. It could all be seen on my face. 

“Silly why did you do that for? Are you ok?” 

I wanted to hug her. I wanted to kiss her. 

“Don’t worry Taeyeon’s fine. We ran out of hot water. That was just normal water. She just has to get changed again.”

Did I just put my emotions on display?

I pulled a straight face and continued eating again. I hope no one noticed.

Chapter 26

Tiffany’s Perspective

I picked up the phone and dialled Taeyeon’s number.

Taeyeon picked up.

“Hello Tiffany.”

“Hello Taeyeon. Jessica and I are ready. How about the three of you?”

Although only Taeyeon and Yoona were supposed to be the only residents in 53A, it seemed like Yoona and Yuri were a 1+1 now.  Yuri’s flat mate practically had the whole flat to herself where as Taeyeon had to share her flat with one more person.

“Yes we’re ready. We’ll see you at the fork in 5 minutes.” 

We hung up.

“Jess you’re ready right? Let’s go.” 

We left and walked towards the fork in the path. The three of them were already there. 

I greeted them. 

We walked on towards the bus stop. I walked beside Taeyeon while Jessica trailed behind us. 

It felt like she was intentionally giving Taeyeon and me some time together.

Jessica’s the best!

Yuri and Yoona were trailing behind all of us. Although they had the longest legs they were always walking slowly.

Perhaps they wanted their own privacy as well. 

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective 

Taeyeon and Tiffany were walking side by side. I intentionally slowed my pace.

I wanted to give them some time together. I wanted to keep away from Taeyeon. 

I was killing two birds with one stone.

Why did I even agree to go on the trip. Sigh.

Even though I always wanted to go to Seonyudo I was not looking forward to the trip.

Not in this situation. 

I always dreamt of the perfect romantic getaway on Seonyudo with my soulmate.

Sleeping together in a tent. 

Sharing a campfire. 

Giving each other warmth. 

Watching the sunset and the sunrise together. 

It was a sweet fantasy.

Indeed I was going to be on Seonyudo with someone I am supposedly in love with. 

But her gender was wrong. 

The whole situation was wrong.

My best friend was in love with her. 

She was in love with me.

And I…

I don’t know what I’m feeling.

When I looked at the both of them I had conflicting emotions.

*** 

Yuri’s Perspective

Yoona and I paced our steps so that we could watch everyone.

It was not an easy task for the both of us. Especially when one step for us was two steps for them.

Imagine.

Jessica has to walk one step slower than Taeyeon and Tiffany.

We had to stay one step behind Jessica.

In order to stay one step behind her, we had to walk two steps slower. 

In total that would be four steps slower for us.

It was quite a pain.

Although I would have to say watching the three of them was one of our favourite past time these days; that was asides from the usual past time that Yoona and I had with each other.

It was fascinating to see how Jessica behaved. It was amazing to see how Tiffany was so forward. Most of all it was totally unbelievable that Taeyeon could be so oblivious.

She still could not tell that Jessica was struggling. Neither could Tiffany.

Regardless we enjoyed all that spying. It was like watching a drama.

All the way in the front was Taeyeon and Tiffany. 

Tiffany was enjoying her time she had with Taeyeon. 

Taeyeon was apparently thinking of Jessica all this time. You could see her turn her head slightly and glance backwards frequently.

Jessica on the other hand was totally confused. You could tell from her actions.

She would look down on the ground deep in thought. One moment she would smile. The next moment there would be a flash of pain. Her face would contort slightly.

She would look up ahead at Tiffany and Taeyeon and then she smile a bittersweet smile to herself.

Finally we arrived at the bus stop.

“So have you booked the bus tickets for Saturday yet?” I asked Tiffany.

“Yes of course I have. It’s going to be a three and a half hour bus ride before we arrive at the ferry terminal in Gunsan. Afterwhich comes a fifty minute ferry ride.” Tiffany explained.

“Wow that’s a really long journey!” Yoona exclaimed.

“Well baby what is four and a half hours when we’re together?” I said intentionally.

Yoona just giggled.

Jessica and Taeyeon looked like they were dreading the long journey for different reasons.

Although it still revolved around one really big problem.

The bus arrived and we boarded.

Before we knew it we were at the Camping supplies store.

“Ok so we’re going to get a 2 man tent and a double sleeping bag for Yoona and myself.”

I grabbed the 2 man tent and Yoona took the double sleeping bag.

“And we’re getting the 3 man tent and three single sleeping bags.” Tiffany said.

They picked a different brand of sleeping bag from ours.

“What else do we have to get?” Yoona asked.

“Let’s get some torches, charcoal, matchsticks, a lighter, and let’s see what else is on the list.” Taeyeon said while fiddling with a piece of paper.

“Marshmallows!” Tiffany shouted.

“Yes! Marshmallows!” Yoona shouted as well.

“Let’s get plenty of snacks to munch on too.” Tiffany continued.

“Girls we have to get more than just snacks and marshmallows.” Taeyeon said sensibly.

We ended up lugging a whole lot of stuff back.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

We bought all that we needed. 

All that is left now is for me to spend lots of time with Taeyeon and win her heart.

I’m going to sleep beside her, watch the sunrise with her, watch the sunset with her and do everything else with her.

She was going to be mine after the trip. At least that was what I hoped for.

I smiled.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

We were done preparing for the camping trip. 

All we had to do now was wait for Saturday to come and leave for Seonyudo.

Our supplies were ready but I was not.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

Everything was set. 

We bought our bus tickets.

We bought our camping supplies.

We bought our food supplies.

We were well prepared. 

I was sure that nothing could go wrong.

Chapter 27

Tiffany’s Perspective

Finally! 

It was Friday night! The trip was tomorrow. 

Jessica and I were packing in our own dorm while the rest were packing in their own dorm.

We split the supplies up evenly. Each of us bought an accessory strap to secure our sleeping bags to the base of our haversack. 

We even got a cooler to store certain food supplies. It was fortunate that it was still spring so the weather was still cool. Otherwise our food might turn bad quickly.

There were shops on Seonyudo as well so it wasn’t too bad. 

I went to Jessica’s room to check on her progress.

I opened the door to a horrendous mess.

“Jessica! Did a hurricane just come through your room?” I gasped holding a hand to my forehead.

Jessica could be really messy and disorganized sometimes.

“You know I hate packing!” Jessica replied impatiently.

“You better make sure you bring the necessities and not forget anything.” I reminded.

“Oh fine fine stop nagging and leave me alone to do the impossible task. It’s all your fault that I have to be doing this now.” She sulked.

“Ok. I’ll leave you to your packing. Remember don’t forget anything!” I shut the door. 

I returned to my room. My backpack was sitting neatly at the corner. 

All I had to do now was sleep and wait for tomorrow to come.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I had stuff scattered all over my room. I tried to sort out which were necessities and which were not. Although everything seemed like they were necessary. 

I had the greatest difficulty when it came to packing. On top of that I was reluctant to spend the entire weekend holed up in a tent with Taeyeon and Tiffany.

Alas the time was here. The trip was tomorrow. I should just get it done and over with. 

I must help Tiffany and Taeyeon. 

Once they get together officially I’ll be free of problems. 

I wouldn’t have to struggle with the fact that I’m in love with a girl. She’ll officially belong to someone else. 

When I thought that I felt a stabbing pain in my chest. 

I started crying. 

I couldn’t talk to anyone about this. 

I had no release. I had to bear it all alone. 

I stuffed whatever I had to bring along into the haversack and attached the sleeping bag to the bottom of my haversack.

I tossed the rest of my stuff into a pile on the ground.

I crawled into bed and pulled the covers tightly around me. It was my only comfort.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I was done packing an hour ago. I double checked to make sure that I did not leave anything out.

I ticked off my checklist. Great I was fully equipped. 

Now I could rest, but my mind was still active.  

I know that I should never let Jessica find out that I’m Drag0nBz. I should never let her find out my feelings for her. 

The thought that we’ll be sharing a tent for the whole time we were going to be on the trip seemed like a really scary idea. 

I was afraid to be close to her. I was afraid I let my emotions show. I was afraid I would slip up. 

There were too many worries I had. 

In a way I was glad that she was avoiding me. Yes it was painful but it would be better for the both of us. 

As if one problem wasn’t enough. I had Tiffany on my back too. She wasn’t giving up. 

*** 

Yoona’s Perspective

I woke up to the feel of soft warm lips against mine. It was the best thing to wake up to. 

Yuri whispered in my ears, “Good morning love. Rise and shine we have a bus to catch. It’s time for our romantic getaway.”

I smiled at the thought. We were going to camp along the beaches of Seonyudo. Sleeping under the stars with Yuri. Holding hands and walking along the beach.

It was just so romantic. 

I hugged Yuri. “I can’t wait.”

“Neither can I.” Yuri kissed my cheeks. 

We got up and washed up.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I woke up to the sound of Yuri and Yoona talking excitedly. 

The pair must be looking forward to the trip. It was their first trip together.

It is not like they don’t spend enough time with each other. It is just that they are spending time with each other in a new environment. Nonetheless they would still be spending time with each other. 

Unlike my situation. I’ll be spending all my time with two girls. Two girls that I would rather not have appear in front of me at the same time. 

I washed up, got changed and had breakfast.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

I woke up bright and cheery. It was an exciting feeling. I could barely sleep last night.

I washed up and popped into Jessica’s room. She was still sleeping.

“Jessica wake up!! It’s time to go soon! We’ll be late if you continue sleeping!”

I dragged her out of bed.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

“Jessica wake up!! It’s time to go soon! We’ll be late if you continue sleeping!”

I hated to wake up to Tiffany’s yelling. I hated to wake up period.

I felt a pair of hands on mine. Tiffany dragged me out of bed.

It was frustrating. I opened my eyes. 

“Ok I’m up. Stop dragging me.” I mumbled.

I proceeded to wash up. 

I was still half asleep. I grabbed my haversack and hugged it while I sat on the couch.

Tiffany was eating breakfast. 

I was getting as much sleep as I could get.

Breakfast was secondary.

*** 

Yuri’s Perspective

We were all carrying out equipment and heading for the bus stop. We had to take a bus and switch to another bus at the bus terminal. After which we take a ferry from Gunsan to Seonyudo.

We made sure we had all our equipment before we boarded the bus for the bus terminal.

We arrived and we made our way to the bus for Gunsan. We flashed our tickets and got on. 

The five of us took the last two rows. All our equipment added together were equivalent to four other people, so it seemed like there were nine of us instead of just five.

We all settled down quickly. Yoona and I sat on the left of the last row. Taeyeon sat on our right and intentionally stacked our bags neatly on the remaining two seats. 

Tiffany and Jessica had no choice but to sit in the seat in front of us. 

A few others got on the bus and the bus moved off after a while.

Needless to say Taeyeon was looking at Jessica. 

Yoona and I were engrossed in our own topics until we heard Tiffany’s conversation with Jessica.

“So Jess how are things with GDragon? You have stopped talking online right? You haven’t told me anything ever since that day at the Food canteen.” Tiffany asked innocently.

Taeyeon pricked up her ears too.

I could see Jessica stiffen at that question.

“Well it’s over. Everything is over. No more GDragon, No more Drag0nBz in my life. No more of them.” Jessica replied.

“No more of them? I thought they were one.” Tiffany seemed puzzled.

Jessica was careless. She let slip. It was obvious that Tiffany didn’t have a clue that GDragon wasn’t Drag0nBz.

“Oh well I found out that GDragon wasn’t Drag0nBz. You were just too busy so I didn’t have time to tell you.” Jessica covered up. 

“Ok so since we have time now. Tell me more. Who is Drag0nBz? How did you find out? What exactly is going on.” Tiffany continued with her endless string of questions.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

Tiffany was asking too many questions. It was the wrong time. Taeyeon, Yuri, and Yoona could all listen in on our conversation.

I had to be careful what I said to Tiffany. Not like I didn’t already have to be careful. Now I have to be extra careful.

“Well we were chatting online one day and Drag0nBz told me that HE wasn’t GDragon.” I said emphasizing on that particular word.

“He turned me down and said that he regretted confessing to me. Everything just ended like that.” I said keeping my voice stable.

I was shaking inside.

“So? Is that it? All this time you spent chatting to him down the drain like that? I don’t get it. All those months that you spent pouring out your hearts to each other, all that you’ve shared just gone like that? I know those feelings you had were real. I believe that those feelings he portrayed were real too. So why can’t the both of you just meet and get together?” Tiffany protested.

You wouldn’t be saying this if you knew Taeyeon was Drag0nBz.

Tiffany’s words hit me hard. I didn’t want to believe that it was real. 

It isn’t real. It isn’t real. It isn’t real. It isn’t real. It isn’t real. It isn’t real. It isn’t real. It isn’t real.

“Tiffany nothing was real. Nothing is real. Nothing ever will be real between me and Drag0nBz. Anyway he’s out of my life. I don’t care about him anymore. What’s past is past. I’m looking forward to my new prince charming. There’s this guy he’s really cute and I think he’s the one. I don’t give a hoot about Drag0nBz anymore.” I was totally lying through my teeth. 

I just wanted Taeyeon to hear all this. I wanted her to think that I’ve moved on.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

“Well we were chatting online one day and Drag0nBz told me that HE wasn’t GDragon.” Jessica told Tiffany.

It’s good that you think Drag0nBz is a he. 

“He turned me down and said that he regretted confessing to me. Everything just ended like that.” Jessica said like it was nothing.

I’m glad that she’s taking it so well. At least I know that I made the right choice.

“So? Is that it? All this time you spent chatting to him down the drain like that? I don’t get it. All those months that you spent pouring out your hearts to each other, all that you’ve shared just gone like that? I know those feelings you had were real. I believe that those feelings he portrayed were real too. So why can’t the both of you just meet and get together?” Tiffany protested.

It isn’t down the drain. Those were memories that I held on to and kept dear to my heart. Of course they were real. They were as real as the pain I was feeling inside. 

“Tiffany nothing was real. Nothing is real. Nothing ever will be real between me and Drag0nBz. Anyway he’s out of my life. I don’t care about him anymore. What’s past is past. I’m looking forward to my new prince charming. There’s this guy he’s really cute and I think he’s the one. I don’t give a hoot about Drag0nBz anymore.” 

Jessica’s words cut like a knife. 

I didn’t know I meant so little to her. 

Then again I was glad I did. I’m glad that she has moved on. 

I did the right thing for her.

***

Yoona’s Perspective

Sitting there listening in to Jessica’s conversation with Tiffany just made my blood boil.

I was upset. How could Jessica say such hurting words. She obviously knew that Taeyeon was listening and she had to say all that.

I typed out a text to Yuri on my phone. We were having a silent conversation.

“What in the world is Jessica Uhn-nee doing. She is obviously trying to hurt Taeyeon uhn-nee. I’m so pissed! How can she do that! Taeyeon uhn-nee has been doing everything for her sake.”

“Yoona ah relax. I think she’s just trying to make Taeyeon give up on her. Think about it Tiffany is her best friend. Tiffany likes Taeyeon. Taeyeon is in love with her. Plus it’s her first girl. I’m sure the entire situation is hard enough for her already.” Yuri typed back to me. 

“Kwon Yuri why are you defending her! She’s hurting Taeyeon uhn-nee!” I typed angrily.

“Baby I’m not defending her. I’m objectively analyzing the situation. Come on I have a plan. Cool down alright? I love you. Their situation is getting out of hand. If we don’t interfere now I foresee that there will be three broken hearts surrounding us.” 

“Ok. I’m sorry I let my anger get the better of me. <3 So what’s the plan?” I was curious. 

Yuri told me the plan. 

We were both going to play god. 

We had to do it. One broken heart was better than three. 

Sneak Peek into Chapter 28

Yuri's Perspective

We were finally at Gunsan. We all carried our haversacks and whatever else we had with us onto the ferry.

Yoona and I had already gone through the plan.

It was one simple step.

One extremely simple step to take for an extremely complicated problem.

We were just going to be the catalyst.

What we were going to do next didn't require much skill on our part.

We would just do it and watch the story unfold 

either

 way.

"It's such a beautiful day let's sit at the open deck!" Yoona faked enthusiastically.

She was better at such than I was.

The both of us found a seat and dumped our belongings there.

Before Jessica could place her haversack down. Yoona dragged her near the railing.

"Wow Jessica uhn-nee look at the view! It is SO beautiful don't you think?" Yoona said distracting her.

I walked over and joined the both of them. Tiffany and Taeyeon set their things down and sat down.

We knew that Jessica would stand there with us. After many days of observation we knew how the three of them reacted around each other.

We could read them like open books.

Jessica stood leaning against the railing, her backpack still on her back.

I leaned in to give Yoona a kiss on the cheeks.

"Ready?" I whispered.

"Yes" She whispered back.

Chapter 28 

(Continued from Sneak peek of Chapter 28)

Yuri’s Perspective

Jessica was facing the ocean. Her hands were on the railing. 

Yoona stood behind her slightly to her right. She placed her left hand on Jessica’s left shoulder while she pointed excitedly to all sorts of things with her right hand. 

It was purely a distraction. 

I gave Yoona a back hug. At least that was what it seemed like. An innocent back hug.

Nobody would know what I was really doing. I was nimbly loosening the accessory strap that held Jessica’s sleeping bag to her backpack. 

Why did we pick her? Because her sleeping bag were the most loosely secured of the three of them.

Great I was done. The straps were really loose.

I kissed Yoona. It was the signal.

“Jessica Uhn-nee Let’s take a picture together!” Yoona said excitedly.

Jessica turned around along with Yoona. 

I took the camera out of my pocket. 

Yoona placed her arms around Jessica.

In the process she nudged gently at the sleeping bag. It fell through the straps and into the deep blue ocean below.

She smiled in time for the picture.

This was a moment to remember. We captured it on camera. 

The three of us heard a faint splashing sound at the same time.

“OMO your sleeping bag!” both Yoona and I said at the same time.

“Huh?” Jessica was still oblivious. 

“My sleeping bag?” She touched the bottom of her backpack just to feel two empty straps dangling loosely at the bottom of the bag.

It finally hit her. She just lost her sleeping bag to the deep blue ocean. Just like how she had lost her heart to Taeyeon. 

There was no getting it back. Was there?

Yoona and I gave each other a secret high five.

We all went back to Taeyeon and Tiffany.

“Jessica’s sleeping bag just fell into the ocean.” I told the both of them.

“What??” The both of them had the same reaction.

“Yeah. Well don’t worry we’ll find a solution somehow. This isn’t a big problem.” I said confidently. 

This was actually a solution.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

Why didn’t I check to make sure the sleeping bag was securely fastened to my bag. 

I have a bad feeling.

This just felt like it was the beginning of unfortunate events.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

She’s so careless. 

What are we going to do now with one less sleeping bag?

Maybe I’ll just offer her mine. I can say I enjoy sleeping under the stars on the sandy beach.

Brrr. That sounds cold.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

We were on Seonyudo! There wasn’t much here but beautiful scenery and sights. It was a reasonably quiet place especially since it was only Spring and not Summer yet.

It was perfect for emotional bonding. Seonyudo just gave off the feeling of peace and tranquillity. 

It felt really refreshing to be here.

I was the one who did most of the research so I directed the rest of them to the beach that we were going to pitch our tents at. 

It was quite a distance away. 

“Do you think we should get transport instead of walking? Sounds like a good plan doesn’t it?” I suggested.

“Sure. Let’s rent some scooters? Sounds way better than pedalling on bicycles.” Yuri added on.

“Sure we could do that. I love riding! How many should we get?” Taeyeon asked.

“I can’t ride a scooter but I’m sure my Yuri will pillion me around.” Yoona said smiling sweetly at Yuri.

“I can’t ride a scooter or a bicycle. I’m bad at balancing. I’ll just have to go with Tiffany. Let’s get three?” Jessica confessed before suggesting being a pillion on my scooter.

I thought I could ride with Taeyeon. Sigh

“Errrrrrrr…Jess..I’m not really good at balancing myself either. I can deal with riding alone but I don’t think I can ride with you. Now what?” I sighed. 

“Well Jessica Uhn-nee can just ride with Taeyeon Uhn-nee! Come on let’s rent those scooters!” Yoona dragged Yuri over to the bike rental.

“Jess I trust you’ll be safe in Taeyeon’s hands. Perfect!” I said joining Yuri and Yoona.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

Jessica? Riding with me? 

I was not prepared for that, but it was not like we had a choice.

Yuri and Yoona were the first to get on. 

Yuri placed her backpack on the pedestal while Yoona still had her backpack on her back. 

Jessica helped Tiffany strap on the cooler box to the back of her scooter.

“Tiff are you sure I can’t ride with you?” Jessica sounded almost like she was begging.

Was it that bad for her to ride with me? Did she hate me that much? What did I do wrong.

“Jess unless you wish for both of us to die on Seonyudo just get on the scooter with Taeyeon. I’m not going to be jealous. Go on now. Let’s not waste time.” Tiffany replied firmly.

I set my backpack on the pedestal. I waited for Jessica to come over.

“Umm how do I get on?” Jessica asked feebly.

“Well you hold on to Taeyeon uhn-nee’s shoulder you step on that stand and then you swing your other leg over. Once you’re seated comfortably make sure you hold on to Taeyeon uhn-nee at all times. Just in case you fall off. Oh and a word of advice hold on to her waist since she would have to steer, if you hold on to her shoulders it may hinder her movement.” Yoona advised expertly.

Hold on to me at all times? Hold on to my waist? Yoona was really making my dream come true.

For the first time we were going to have physical contact with each other. 

I was worried. On the other hand I wanted it as well. 

I knew that I should not ever let her know I’m Drag0nBz. I really should not hurt her that way. 

If she knew, I was sure she would be struggling inside. 

I don’t think she could ever accept being with a girl. It would be too painful for her.

I did not dare to let her know as well. I did not want to lose her as a friend. 

So this was as close as I could get to Jessica.  

Riding on a scooter with her arms around my waist.

It was yet another memory for me to hold in my heart.

Jessica held on to my shoulders as she stepped up on the stand.

My heart was thumping hard. I was nervous. 

She managed to get on. She sat down. 

Yuri and Yoona rode off first. Tiffany followed after. “Hurry you both let’s not waste time!” They three of them shouted.

“Are you ready?” I asked Jessica tenderly.

“Yes.” Jessica said while slipping her arms around my waist.

That moment felt so surreal. I twisted on the accelerator and we zoomed off. 

I felt her grip tighten. 

Honestly. It felt good. I should just treasure all the moments I have with her.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I took a deep breath. I had to calm myself down. 

I was going to be THAT close to her. I knew that it would be really difficult. 

I held her shoulders to secure myself. I got on.

And now it was time for the tough part. I was hesitant. 

“Are you ready?” She asked me in a soft and comforting voice.

“Yes.” I replied. 

I am not ready. 

I slipped my arms around her waist. She rode off. 

I tightened my grip around her waist. She made me feel secure. 

I really wanted to hold on to her forever. 

Part of me felt bad towards Tiffany. 

I should not be feeling this way, but it was getting more difficult by the minute. 

The defensive walls inside of me were crumbling.

Chapter 29

Taeyeon’s Perspective

It was quite a short ride. Before we knew it we arrived at the beach. 

I still haven’t had enough of Jessica yet. These moments were precious and rare. 

How else could we have the excuse to be so physically close? 

I braked. She slipped her hands off immediately.

I sighed silently.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I was glad that we were finally at the beach. 

If I were to sit with my arms around Taeyeon any longer I would probably never want to let her go ever again.

I heaved a sigh of relief and got off the scooter. 

We walked around to find a nice piece of flat ground so that we could pitch both our tents. 

“Perfect! View’s good, there’s shade under the trees, and the ground is even.” Tiffany said with a great deal of satisfaction. 

She picked a spot that was cosy and quiet. We could hear the sound of the waves lapping softly against the shore. The slight breeze rustled the tree leaves gently. 

It was really peaceful. 

It made me want to lay in Taeyeon’s arms and just close my eyes and relax. 

I could tell that I was losing control bit by bit. Such thoughts were appearing too much. 

I have to stop.

“Let’s set up camp!” Yoona said excitedly. 

Yuri and Yoona started setting up their own tent. 

Tiffany and Taeyeon were also setting up tent together. 

Why did I even agree to come. I should have stayed back in the dorm alone.

Although I knew that Tiffany would never allow that to happen.

*** 

Tiffany’s Perspective

“Ok! We’re all set! So what do we do next? Should we explore the surrounding islands now?” I asked enthusiastically. 

“Let’s keep our bags away first.” Taeyeon said.

“Are we going to go on the scooters?” Jessica asked apprehensively.

“Silly! How else are we going?” I said looking at Jessica. 

I walked over and held Jessica’s hands. 

“You’re ok are you? Or was the ride too scary?” 

I was concerned about my best friend. She didn’t seem like she was feeling too good.

“Yeah I’m fine. Maybe I’m just exhausted. I feel like sleeping.” Jessica replied.

“In that case why don’t we all take a break first and let Jessica rest up? We can always explore later. We have loads of time.” Taeyeon suggested.

Taetae was such a sweet girl. 

Taeyeon was already taking a mat out of her bag and laying it on the floor. 

“Here Jessica you can rest here. I’ll go and see if anyone sells sleeping bags.” Taeyeon started walking towards the scooter.

“Hey Tiffany maybe you should go with Taeyeon.” Jessica suggested.

“Are you sure you’ll be fine here?” I looked at her doubtfully.

I wanted to go with Taeyeon but I was worried about my best friend.

“I just need sleep. I’ll be much better without you here. You make too much noise.” Jessica shooed me away.

I knew she wanted to let me spend time alone with Taeyeon. Jessica was such a sweet friend.

What will I ever do without a friend like Jessica?

Taeyeon was already sitting on the scooter. She was waiting for me.

Instead of hopping on my own scooter I hopped on hers. 

It’s our turn now.

I wrapped my arms around Taeyeon’s waist. 

It felt like I was in heaven! 

“Ok Taetae let’s go.” I said cheerily.

We rode around for a good half hour but no shops seemed to sell any sleeping bags. All we could find were small little camping accessories, seafood stalls, and grocers.

We gave up after 45 minutes and headed back to the rest.

Although we couldn’t find anything it was the best 45 minutes I ever had.

It was the first time I ever held Taeyeon so close and so intimately before. 

I’ve always only held her hands or hooked arms with her. We have never really hugged for so long before.

The only other time I managed to hug her was when I ‘tripped over her doorstep’. 

I leaned my head lovingly on her shoulders. 

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I heard the sound of the scooter pull in behind me. They must be back. 

I turned hoping that they managed to get me a sleeping bag. 

Well I didn’t see a sleeping bag.

All I saw was Tiffany holding on to Taeyeon tightly. Her heads were resting on Taeyeon’s shoulders. It seems like Tiffany must have fallen asleep in that position.

I could understand why. 

Taeyeon just gave off this aura. She gave the feeling of security and comfort. 

Who could resist feeling that way around her

?

Taeyeon sat there in that position, unwilling to wake Tiffany up.

She is just so considerate.

Yuri and Yoona started reaching for their cameras and snapping pictures of the two. 

Taeyeon just gave a ‘I can’t believe the both of you’ look on her face.

I stood up and I walked away.

I couldn’t bear to see the both of them being so intimate. It felt like a stake was being driven through my heart over and over again.

I was really on the verge of driving a real stake through my heart. This pain was too much to bear.

I was overwhelmed. I was brimming with emotions. I needed an outlet soon. I needed to find a way to lessen the pain. 

I needed it soon. 

I walked moodily along the shore. I really didn’t know how I was feeling anymore.

This sense of loss was insane. It was like I was a demagnetized compass. 

I had no more direction.

Everything I did just didn’t make sense anymore. Nothing really did make sense in the beginning as well. 

But then again who ever said that love made sense? If it did make sense could it then still be considered love?

I never knew love could hurt so much.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

Yuri and Yoona were snapping pictures of me and Tiffany. It was annoying.

Jessica started walking away when she saw me. 

It felt like she hated me. I really wanted to know what I did wrong. What did I do to make her hate me so.

Was it really that unbearable to be around me?

Did she hate me because I rejected Tiffany? Did she hate me because of what I did to

 GDragon? 

I don’t know why she hated me. But I knew for sure that she hated me so much that she could never bear a moment around me. 

Sometimes I wished that Tiffany was the one I was chatting to online. If it were her nothing would have to be this way. 

If it were her. We would be so happy together.

Chapter 30

Yuri’s Perspective

Jessica walked away when she saw Tiffany holding on to Taeyeon so tightly. 

Things were going better than expected.

Jessica was at the peak of her pain. She had no one to talk to but herself.

Taeyeon still had Yoona and I, but Jessica had no one.

She could never tell her best friend what was going on.

I could see the pain in Taeyeon’s eyes too. 

I was sure that something would happen soon enough. 

However it would end, I was sure that someone would break.

“Ok let’s prepare the fire so we can make some dinner. Let’s wake Tiffany up. It’s getting dark.” I instructed.

Taeyeon tapped on Tiffany’s hands. Tiffany stirred slightly. She opened her eyes and looked at Taeyeon.

“I’m sorry I fell asleep. I was too excited the night before so I didn’t sleep much. I sure am going to sleep real well tonight.” Tiffany said while rubbing her eyes.

I wonder if she would be able to fall asleep if she knew what we had planned for them.

Taeyeon and I set the campfire on the sand roughly 3 meters away from our tents. Didn’t want to get any cinders setting our tent on fire.

Before we knew it the sun had almost set. Lucky for us we had a beautiful fire litted. 

Jessica was still sitting along the beach alone.

She was definitely deep in thought. 

Tiffany went to get her when she saw that we were done with the fire.

I unpacked some food together with Taeyeon and we set up the grill over the fire.

We had sausages, potatos, sweet potatos, and some marinated pork ribs. 

It was quite a spread. We tossed some potatos and sweet potatos into the fire. 

Jessica came back with Tiffany and they sat down together. Jessica on Tiffany’s right.

“Come on Taetae sit here.” Tiffany said as she patted on the soft sand beside her. 

Taeyeon sat herself beside Tiffany.

“Yoona ah get our radio. It’s such a beautiful evening how can we do without music?” I smiled. 

Yoona disappeared into our tent for a while and she came out with the portable radio, it was the type where we could also plug in our personal mp3 player and play our own songs.

We brought plenty of batteries so we didn’t have to worry about not having music. 

Yoona set the radio down beside us and we tuned it to an English station. 

“Here Taeyeon uhn-nee this is specially dedicated to you. We’re going to play your favourite radio station alllllllllll night.” Yoona said. 

We both smiled. It was not only Taeyeon’s favourite radio station. It was also Jessica’s.

I saw that the both of them flinch when the songs started playing. The station was playing old sentimental love songs. 

We talked as we barbecued our food. Jessica and Taeyeon were both quite quiet. 

They gave short replies. 

They avoided looking at each other.

“It’s getting slightly chilly isn’t it?” I looked at Yoona and winked.

She got me once again. 

“Yes it is. I can’t wait to snuggle up close to you in our sleeping bag later tonight.” Yoona replied adeptly.

“OH! Sleeping bag! Crap what are we going to do?” Tiffany exclaimed in realization. 

The three of them just remembered that they were one sleeping bag short. 

This was such a pleasure. Watching them react exactly how we planned for them to.

“Well Jessica can have mine?” Taeyeon said softly unsure at how the rest would react.

“Do you really think you’re made of steel? Stop giving such stupid solutions.” Jessica sighed.

“Uhn-nee stop worrying. I have the perfect solution! Since your sleeping bags are the same brand you can most definitely zip it together? So why don’t you combine both sleeping bags so that all three of you can sleep in it?” Yoona suggested according to plan.

“Indeed. That would most definitely work. One sleeping bag is too small for two but two sleeping bags combined would most defninitely be enough for three. The three of you are small anyway.” I supported Yoona’s idea.

“Awesome! The both of you are just geniuses!” Tiffany was very open to the idea of sharing a sleeping bag with Taeyeon.

We were both very sure that she would suck up every bit of the idea and the other two would have no choice but to follow suit.

Yoona and I really didn’t know how it would turn out after that. 

There were only a few scenarios we could picture.

Tiffany and Taeyeon were so intimate that Jessica would break down.

Tiffany and Taeyeon were so intimate that Taeyeon gives in. 

And if it so happen that it is even possible for Taeyeon to be sleeping beside Jessica, something may just happen. But the possibility of that was very low. Tiffany would most probably be in the middle.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

We were sitting around the fire. 

They were talking.  The radio was playing. The songs were unbearable to listen to. 

Most of them reminded me of the times we were chatting to each other. The songs were taking a toll on me. 

I was already having so much trouble hiding my emotions away. 

“It’s getting slightly chilly isn’t it?” Yuri turned and said to Yoona.

“Yes it is. I can’t wait to snuggle up close to you in our sleeping bag later tonight.” Yoona replied sweetly.

The both of them were so sweet for each other.

“OH! Sleeping bag! Crap what are we going to do?” Tiffany exclaimed on my behalf. 

I almost forgot about it.

“Well Jessica can have mine?” Taeyeon said softly.

Silly I’m not going to allow that. I rather freeze.

“Do you really think you’re made of steel? Stop giving such stupid solutions.” I sighed.

She really loves me a lot.

“Uhn-nee stop worrying. I have the perfect solution! Since your sleeping bags are the same brand you can most definitely zip it together? So why don’t you combine both sleeping bags so that all three of you can sleep in it?” Yoona suggested.

“Indeed. That would most definitely work. One sleeping bag is too small for two but two sleeping bags combined would most defninitely be enough for three. The three of you are small anyway.” Yuri supported Yoona’s idea.

Three of us in a sleeping bag? It seems like we are caught in the vicious cycle of being in threes. One of us had to be eliminated. It has to be me.

“Awesome! The both of you are just geniuses!” Tiffany seemed very glad at the suggestion.

I guess it is a good thing. The both of them can hug each other to sleep.

“Ok that’s settled then.” Yuri said. 

“Anyway Taeyeon uhn-nee don’t you have a music player? Can we plug it in. The music is getting boring.” Yoona said while walking towards the tent.

“Sure.” Taeyeon replied listlessly.

Yoona took the player out after a while and fiddled with it. It seems like she was choosing a playlist.

“Ah ha! I like this one.” Yoona said while she plugged the player in.

The songs played. The songs were nice but somehow they seemed like they were all meant for me.

The lyrics were a pain to listen to. If only I could shut my ears.

I could not take it anymore. I stood up.

“I’m going for a walk along the beach.” 

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

“Uhn-nee stop worrying. I have the perfect solution! Since your sleeping bags are the same brand you can most definitely zip it together? So why don’t you combine both sleeping bags so that all three of you can sleep in it?” Yoona suggested.

“Indeed. That would most definitely work. One sleeping bag is too small for two but two sleeping bags combined would most defninitely be enough for three. The three of you are small anyway.” Yuri supported Yoona’s idea.

Ok at least Jessica would have someplace to sleep. 

“Awesome! The both of you are just geniuses!” Tiffany seemed very glad at the suggestion.

Tiffany will be all over me. Sigh.

She was really persistent. 

“Ok that’s settled then.” Yuri said. 

“Anyway Taeyeon uhn-nee don’t you have a music player? Can we plug it in. The music is getting boring.” Yoona said while walking towards the tent.

“Sure.” I replied while thinking about what could happen in the tent tonight.

“Ah ha! I like this one.” Yoona said while she plugged the player in she must have chosen a playlist.

The first song played. ‘Strange and Beautiful by Aqualung’. Why did Yoona have to pick this playlist. 

All the songs reflected the things I wanted to say to Jessica. 

Crap.

The next song was ‘Angel by Broken Door’. 

Jessica stood up as the song ‘Angel’ was ending. 

“I’m going for a walk along the beach.” 

She started walking away.

It almost seemed like she knew how I felt towards her and she could not accept me so she chose to walk away.

Of course that was not possible. She would never know that I’m Drag0nBz. She would never know that I am in love with her.

But that was how it seemed. 

“Fany ah you better go with her. Don’t let her go walking off alone.” I said as to her.

Tiffany looked up and she realised that Jessica was walking alone. She ran after Jessica.

Yuri and Yoona were sharing a sweet potato. 

I just looked up at the sky. 

God if you exist could you please help me out? Can you please take all this pain away.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I heard footsteps behind me.

I couldn’t be bothered to see who it was. I yearned for it to be Taeyeon. 

“Why are you walking off without your best friend huh?” I heard Tiffany say.

It’s only Tiffany.

“I just wanted to leave you alone with Taeyeon. You know let the both of you bond.” I said.

I knew I didn’t mean it fully. 

“Don’t be silly we can bond all night in the sleeping bag.” Tiffany said as a yawn escaped her mouth.

“Come on let’s head back. We should go to bed soon. I’m really tired and I’m sure you are too.” Tiffany continued.

She held my hands and brought me back to the tent.

“Ok Yoona and I are going to turn in now.” The couple said as they took the radio into the tent with them.

I saw that their sleeping bags were already laid out nicely on the ground inside the tent.

I saw the same for ours. 

“Ok let’s turn in too.” Tiffany said to both Taeyeon and I. 

“Oh anyway Taetae can you sleep in the center? I refuse to sleep beside Jessica. She kicks in her sleep.” Tiffany requested.

I could not believe that Tiffany just said that. 

“Tiffany seriously?? I don’t kick. Why don’t you just sleep in the center.” I protested.

“I don’t trust you. You Kick and I KNOW IT. Well but I trust you enough to let you sleep beside Taetae. And I know that nothing will happen between the two of you. So stop arguing. I don’t care I’m not sleeping beside you.”

Taeyeon was just silent all this time. I knew she was nervous at the thought of sleeping beside me too.

“Just stop arguing already. Taeyeon just sleep in the center. Don’t ruin the peace and quiet for me and Yoona!” We heard Yuri shout out from the tent.

“Precisely. Let’s not ruin it for them.” Tiffany dusted her feet and she slid into the sleeping bag and claimed the right side of it.

“Come on let’s go in too.” Taeyeon said looking at the ground. 

She took center position and I of course had no choice but to lay in the only spot left. 

As I crawled in, our skins touched. My heart was stirring. 

Control yourself.

 I repeated to myself in my head.

It was quite a tight squeeze. After all it was made for two not three. There was no way we could sleep without being in contact with the person beside us.

“It’s so nice and cosy in here. Ahhh. Good night.” Tiffany said to the both of us.

“Goodnight.” Taeyeon replied.

“Goodnight.” I said.

I heard music coming from Yuri and Yoona’s tent. They must have switched on the radio.

The music wasn’t too loud. It was just right. The songs were soothing. 

But I couldn’t fall asleep. Not when I knew that Taeyeon was just laying right beside me.

We were so close that I could feel her skin against mine. I could feel myself heat up. 

It was the fourth song and I was still not asleep. I was tired but my mind was too preoccupied. 

It was an odd sensation I was feeling inside of me. 

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

Jessica was laying beside me. Tiffany was on the other side. I was caught in between in every sense.

Jessica was emitting an abnormal amount of heat from her body. I wonder if she was ok. I wonder if she always felt so warm. 

Her arms and legs were pressed against mine. I heard light snoring on my right. It seems like Tiffany was really tired.

It felt good to be this close to Jessica.

The music in the background was beautiful. Right now ‘Sometimes when we touch by Olivia’ was playing. How apt. Her version of the song was extremely soothing. 

I couldn’t help myself. I turned my head to look at Jessica. 

Our eyes met.

We held the gaze.

It was the first time our eyes met for a very long time. I couldn’t take my eyes away.

I was lost in the moment. It felt like I was peering deep into her soul. 

I wanted to kiss her. 

She turned on her side and edged slightly closer. She moved so close that I could feel her warm breath against my cheeks. Her breathing was heavy.

What is she doing?

She closed the gap between our lips.

I turned on my sides to face her. 

I lost all control.

I kissed her tenderly again.

I held my hands out and lightly caressed her cheeks while we kissed. She slid her arms around my waist and started gently stroking my back.

Our lips parted and I could feel her tongue against mine. 

We kissed each other passionately. 

We could not stop. 

The both of us were on fire.

Chapter 31

Jessica’s Perspective

I heard light snoring from the right. I wonder if Taeyeon’s asleep. 

I turned to look at Taeyeon. She didn’t seem like she was asleep.

Perhaps she was awake for the same reason I was.

My eyes followed the contours of her cheeks. She was so beautiful.

Without warning she turned her head.

Our eyes met. I knew at that moment that I could no longer control my emotions.

The intensity of our gaze heightened my senses. I could practically feel every inch of her skin against mine. I yearned to be closer.

Our bodies were already pressed against each other. That was not enough.

I moved my face closer to hers.

Our faces were barely apart from each other. I couldn’t bear for us to be apart any longer.

I pressed my lips against hers. Her lips were really soft.

She turned her body towards me.

She returned a kiss. It sent tingles down my spine.

She very gently stroked my cheeks. I ran my hands down her back.

The passion in me flared. I needed more. 

My tongue found its way past her lips.

Our tongues met for the first time.

They got to know each other better. Our lips were glued to each other. 

I didn’t know how it happened but I was on top of her. 

We were both very passionate. All that we have kept inside from the beginning was unleashed all at once. 

The love. The desire. It consumed us both.

Just then we heard a noise.

Tiffany!

I pulled away from Taeyeon immediately. The both of us looked over at Tiffany. 

Thankfully she was still asleep. Her back facing us. She was just flipping over in her sleep.

I unzipped the sides of the sleeping bag and I got off Taeyeon immediately. 

I crawled out of the tent.

I needed some fresh air.

I couldn’t believe what had just happened. 

I gave in to my emotions. I gave in to the beautiful music. I gave in to my urges. I crumbled. 

I was trembling.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I was still on my back.

I was still recovering from the intense moment. 

I touched my lips. The taste of Jessica’s lips were still lingering.

We kissed?

I crawled out of the tent and zipped it up. I didn’t want Tiffany to wake up and witness the scene.

It was far too complicating.

Jessica was standing in front of the campfire.

All that was left of it was glowing embers.

*** 

Yuri’s Perspective

“Just stop arguing already. Taeyeon just sleep in the center. Don’t ruin the peace and quiet for me and Yoona!” I shouted to the three of them. I faked irritation.

Yoona was trying to stifle her laugh. It was from excitement at what would happen tonight.

“What do you think will happen?” Yoona asked me as the both of us laid on our backs.

“Hush.” I placed a finger on her lips. 

I switched on the radio to hide our voices.

She playfully bit my finger.

“You’re going to pay for this.” I replied.

“No I’m not.” Yoona said taunting me.

I was leaning against my sides towering slightly over Yoona.

“Anyway I have a feeling that things are going to happen tonight. I’m quite sure of it. Look at all those emotions that Jessica has been suppressing up till now. All it needs is a slight spark to ignite the flames of desire.” I said while stroking Yoona’s cheeks.

“Someone sure sounds experienced.” Yoona said her cheeks warming up.

I knew she wanted me. I toyed with her a little longer. 

I moved my lips over to her right ear and whispered. “Who do you think will make the first move? Jessica or Taeyeon?”

I could feel her breath against my neck.

I moved my face directly on top of hers. I looked her deep in the eyes.

My lips intentionally brushing against hers as I moved.

She was taking short breaths. 

“So do you think Jessica and Taeyeon will succumb tonight?” I asked seductively.

“I don’t know and I don’t care. All I know is I want you right now.” Yoona lifted her head slightly to kiss me.

“Uh uh.” I pulled away and placed my fingers on her lips.

“That’s what you get for biting my fingers.” I said playfully.

She grabbed my shoulders and pinned me down. “And this is what you get for teasing me.”

She kissed my lips. The moment our lips touched all our desires unleashed. We never got tired of each other. 

Everytime we kissed, it felt like our first. 

We were making out for what seemed like five minutes which in actual fact was twenty minutes when we heard someone unzip the tent next to us. 

Did something happen already?  

We stopped whatever we were doing. 

The both of us were excited as we heard Taeyeon say, “Jessica. What’s going on?”

Not that we weren’t already excited in another sense. 

We got up and quietly and lifted the flap of the tiny window. We peered out and saw Taeyeon and Jessica standing by the campfire.

Taeyeon had her hands gently resting on the back of Jessica’s arms.

Jessica pulled away gently.

“I’m sorry Taeyeon. I shouldn’t have kissed you. I lost control.”

Wow they kissed!

 Yoona and I looked at each other thinking the same.

Taeyeon held on to Jessica’s arms and turned her around.

“It’s ok. I wanted to kiss you too. I’m in love with you. I’ve been in love with you for a long time. I have a confession to make. I am DragonBz. I fell for the IcePrincess. It was all real. I fell for you even before I knew it was you. When I found out that you were the IcePrincess I held back. I didn’t want you to have to face the struggles of being in a dilemma. I didn’t want you to feel the pain of being in love with a girl. I didn’t want you to feel caught in between your best friend and myself. I had to hurt you to free you from all those problems. I didn’t want you to be in more pain. Now that you know and now that we have kissed. I’m never going to let you go.” Taeyeon said with passion.

We could see Jessica’s eyes soften up. Tears welled in her eyes.

“Taeyeon ah. I know. I have known all along that you are DragonBz. I overheard your conversation with Yoona and Yuri. I was in pain. I couldn’t tell anyone. I didn’t want to hurt Tiffany. Please promise me that you won’t tell Tiffany? I don’t want her to be hurt. She’s my best friend and I love her. Please respect my wishes.” Jessica pleaded with tears rolling down her cheeks.

“I know. But I love you and you love me. So why can’t we tell Tiffany. I’m sure she would understand.” Taeyeon asked delicately wiping Jessica’s tears away.

“No. I don’t want to lose her as a friend. I can’t afford to lose the both of you. You are equally important. We can’t be selfish Taeyeon ah.” Jessica sobbed silently.

Taeyeon pulled Jessica close to her and held her arms around Jessica’s waist. She leaned Jessica’s head against her shoulders and gently stroked her hair. 

“Ok I promise. Don’t cry. I don’t like to see you in pain. It hurts me too.” Taeyeon said gingerly.

“Our job is done. The rest is up to them.” I said to Yoona. 

Yoona nodded. 

“I’m lucky to have you baby. I love you.” Yoona said to me with tear filled eyes. 

“I know I’m happy I have you too baby. I love you.” I said as I gently kissed the corner of her eyes. 

I kissed her cheeks.

I kissed her lips.

I kissed her ear lobes gently.

I kissed her lips tenderly again.

We spent the whole night bathing in each other’s love. 

Chapter 32

Jessica’s Perspective

Taeyeon was holding me against her. 

I was not able to let her go ever again. 

I should never have allowed myself to have a taste of her lips.

Now I can never stay away from her again. 

The both of us have just unlocked a door in our hearts. The door was broken. The locks were broken. There was no way we could shut the door on each other again.

She pulled away and looked at me. 

I held on tight around her waist. I didn’t want this to end so quickly.

“Let’s go for a walk?” She asked me while brushing my hair aside gently and looking into my eyes.

“Ok.” I said still locked in an embrace.

I unwillingly let go of her. 

The both of us started walking further down the beach. We walked side by side leaving our footprints in the soft silky sand.

“So what are we going to do now?” Taeyeon asked me. 

“I don’t know.” I replied. I really didn’t know.

She reached for my hands. We locked fingers and continued strolling along the shore.

“Well we will just have to enjoy every moment we have alone together.” Taeyeon said pulling me closer to her. 

“I guess.” I sighed. I knew that was all I could do for now.

We continued walking while we just enjoyed each other’s presence. 

We travelled a long way.

We finally arrived at a wooden jetty. We walked down the stretch of it. 

I sat down at the edge of the Jetty. 

Our camp site was out of sight.

We were safe from view.

The skies were clear tonight. 

There were no clouds. 

The moon was shining brightly. 

The stars were sparkling like diamonds.

“Aren’t you going to join me?” I looked up at Taeyeon waiting for her to sit down beside me. 

“Of course I am.” Taeyeon said as she sat behind me and wrapped her arms around my waist.

I love how she did that. It comforted me.

I leaned against her shoulders. 

Her chin was resting on my left shoulder blade.

I placed my hands on hers. We fitted perfectly together.

I played with her fingers.

“Sica ah. I want to hold you like this forever.” Taeyeon whispered in my ears.

It just felt so sweet. I want you to hold me forever too.

I savoured every bit of the moment.

“I want you to hold me like this forever too.” I said looking at her fingers.

“Promise me you won’t ever leave me?” Taeyeon asked while she tilted her head to face me.

“Promise me you won’t ever let Tiffany find out.” I turned to face her. 

“I promise.” She said as she looked tenderly at my lips.

She moved towards my lips. We let loose our second kiss of the night. 

This time there was nothing to interrupt us.

We were exchanging our love for each other.

We didn’t use words. 

We let our tongues do the job.

We stayed in that position for a long time. 

Before we knew it we saw a glint of light in the horizon.

We pulled away breathless. It didn’t feel like we kissed for that long.

She leaned her cheeks against mine. 

We watched as the sun rose in the horizon. 

“I love you.” Taeyeon whispered.

“I love you too.” I said genuinely.

The sun rise took about two minutes.

It was a new beginning for the both of us.

“Let’s head back before the rest of them get up.” I said worried.

We held hands and walked back to our campsite.

We were nearing so I let go of Taeyeon’s hands.

I unzipped the tent entrance silently. Tiffany was sleeping soundly. 

The both of us crawled in and settled into the sleeping bag.

We gave each other one last silent peck on the lips.

I turned my back on Taeyeon and I closed my eyes.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

“Taetae, Taetae.” I heard someone calling out my name as I felt a gentle tapping on my shoulders.

I forced open my heavy eyelids. I was tired. “Huh.” I muttered.

“Taetae it’s time to wake up.” It was Tiffany.

“Oh umm. Five more minutes.” I mumbled under my breath and shut my eyes again.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

“Jessica Jung. Get up.” Tiffany was shaking me as she called out to me.

I grunted and pulled away. I haven’t had enough sleep.

I heard her sigh in exasperation.

“I give up.” I heard her unzip the entrance and left the tent.

*** 

Yoona’s Perspective

Yuri and I were already sitting outside. We were preparing some sandwiches for breakfast.

“Good morning Tiffany uhn-nee.” I said as I saw her step out of the tent.

“Did you have a good night’s sleep last night?” I asked her concerned.

“Yes of course I did. I slept like a log. But poor taeyeon must have not. She seems really tired.” Tiffany replied.

Of course. She was busy spending time with Jessica.

“Oh well we’ll just have to let her rest a while more.” Yuri joined in.

“I’m sure Jessica must have been kicking her in her sleep. That explains why she’s didn’t have enough sleep.” Tiffany explained to the both of us.

We knew better. It was more like Jessica must have been kissing her not kicking her.

Tiffany took a sandwich and munched on it moodily.

She must be acting this way because Taeyeon was still asleep.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I awoke to chattering outside the tent.

The rest of them must be awake.

Jessica was still asleep.

I smiled as I thought of what happened last night.

I whispered into her ears.

“Sica darling wake up.” I planted a kiss on her lips.

Her lips turned up a smile.

“Good morning.” She said lovingly as she opened her eyes.

She stretched.

I got up and went out.

Tiffany saw me and she smiled. “Good morning Taetae! I’m sorry I made you sleep in the center. Jessica must have kicked you all night. I’ll sleep beside her tonight if you want.”

Jessica sure kept me awake all night but it was good.

“Good morning.” I greeted all of them.

“It’s ok Tiffany. I can take the center. It wasn’t that bad. So what’s for breakfast?” I changed the subject.

“We’re having sandwiches for breakfast. Tuna sandwiches.” Tiffany said while munching on another one.

“I’ll go and wash up first.” I said as I walked aside with my cup of water and my toothbrush.

Jessica came out of the tent shortly. She joined me.

We pretended like nothing happened between us. We were doing well.

We washed our faces and we walked back to join the rest.

I sat down beside Tiffany and helped myself to a sandwich.

Jessica sat down on the other side of Tiffany.

“Here Jessica here’s a sandwich without cucumbers.” Tiffany said while she handed a piece of sandwich to Jessica.

“Thank you Tiffany. I love you.” Jessica said as she gave Tiffany a peck on the cheeks.

The both of them were really very closely knitted.

I knew that I had to uphold my promise to Jessica and make sure that I don’t cause anymore pain for the both of them.

I smiled when Jessica mouthed me an ‘I love you too’ when no one was looking.

This was all we could do for now. 

It was 

our

 little secret.

Chapter 33

Jessica’s Perspective

“So are we all ready to go exploring today?” Yuri asked all of us. Yoona was holding on to her arms.

I was envious that they could openly display their love for each other.

I smiled when I thought of last night.

“Yes of course. I slept so well last night. It’s time for exploration now!” Tiffany replied giving us all a thumbs up.

“Let’s get our valuables before we leave.” Taeyeon added. 

“Sure! Let’s hurry! I can’t wait for the rest of today! It’s going to be so fun! I’m going to take lots of pictures! This place is just so beautiful.” Tiffany said with a whole deal of excitement. She disappeared into the tent.

Taeyeon snuck me a kiss on the cheeks as we were standing outside the tent.

I nudged her and pointed inside the tent. I was afraid that Tiffany would see us.

Of course she did not. She had her back against us.

The both of us went into the tent and took our stuff.

All of us came out of the tents and looked around. We were making sure that we kept our food supplies safe inside the tent.

We zipped both the tents up to prevent wild animals from foraging through our supplies.

We were all set to leave.

Yuri and Yoona got onto the scooter. Yoona hugged Yuri tightly. 

Tiffany got onto her own scooter. 

Taeyeon was already on the scooter. She was waiting for me.

I held on to her shoulders and got onto the scooter. This time around I was looking forward to it.

I ran my fingers down her back and slid it around her waist. I could feel her shaking with pleasure. 

She had to keep quiet about it because the rest were around. I knew that she couldn’t do anything.

It was funny to see her reactions.

She looked at me through the side mirrors. I looked back at her lovingly.

The side mirror was our secret messenger for now.

The rest of them rode off and we followed behind them.

“I love you.” I whispered as the wind was blowing in our faces.

She took one hand off the handle bars and gently touched one of my hands that was around her waist. “I love you too.” 

I took every opportunity I had to express my love for her. 

It was akin to a shaken bottle of soda. All that carbonated gas was just waiting for its chance to escape into the atmosphere. 

I have held it in for too long. This was my release.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

It was a beautiful sight. There were cherry blossoms here and there as we rode along the path. 

I was glad that I could share all this moments with the person I’m so in love with.

It felt good to know that she loves me too.

We were on the bridge that connected Seonyudo to a few other islands. 

The ocean was to our right. There were trees lining the left of the path. 

It was a truly romantic moment.

Jessica whispered softly to me at that moment. “I love you.”

My heart was overflowing with love for her.

“I love you too.” I said with much passion.

I gently touched her hands to affirm her of my love for her.

Her hands were soft and smooth to the touch. 

I was glad that her hand was mine to hold for eternity.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

We stopped at this amazing spot. It was a very quiet area. We were a sort of a cliff overhanging the water. There was a solitary Cherry tree hanging over the edge. 

The ground was littered with pink flowers.

Yoona and Yuri started snapping photos.

“Tiffany uhn-nee can you take a photo for us.” Yoona requested.

Yoona wrapped her arms around Yuri’s waist. Yuri placed her arms over Yoona’s shoulders.

“One, two, three.” Tiffany snapped a picture. 

The girls hurried over to check the picture out.

“Wow it’s so beautiful!” Yoona pointed excitedly at the digital image on the camera.

“Taeyeon come on over and take one with me too.” Tiffany motioned for Taeyeon to join her.

Taeyeon sneaked me a look. I could tell that she was conscious of how I felt.

“Go on Taeyeon. I’ll take a good photo for the both of you.” I said as I took my camera out.

“Thanks Jess!” Tiffany said cheerfully.

Tiffany held Taeyeon’s hands and dragged her over. 

“Ok pose. I’m going to take the picture now. One, two, three.” As I was saying that Tiffany wrapped her arms around Taeyeon and kissed her on the cheeks.

This surprised both Taeyeon and me.

I looked at the picture and I laughed at Taeyeon’s face.

I’m sure she was afraid that I would get angry or jealous.

That kind of made me happy instead.

Tiffany ran over while holding Taeyeon’s hands.

“Wow look at this picture.” I said to the both of them.

I could see that Taeyeon was shifting her feet slightly.

She was really uneasy. I could tell that she was so worried.

It just made me want to laugh even more.

Of course she couldn’t tell.

I was fine. It was just a peck on the cheeks.

It was very common in the states.

“Take one for me and Jessica.” Tiffany said as she snatched the camera from my hands and handed it to Taeyeon.

The both of us held each other and leaned our heads against each other.

We smiled sweetly and Taeyeon took the picture.

Taeyeon  then took a picture with Yoona and later with Yuri.

We also took a picture of the three of them.

“Why don’t you and Jessica take one together too.” Tiffany suggested.

The both of us walked over. I was conscious. I didn’t want to appear too close.

We stood there stiffly. “The both of you look like robots!” Tiffany exclaimed.

“Will you die if you showed more joy. Move closer.” Tiffany instructed. 

Taeyeon placed her arms around my waist.

We smiled a genuine smile as Tiffany snapped a picture.

We moved apart from each other the moment we were done with the picture.

“Now let’s take a group photo!” Tiffany said while gathering everyone. 

Yuri positioned a scooter so that we could place a camera on it. 

I stood to Tiffany’s left and Taeyeon stood to her right. Tiffany placed her arms around both our shoulders. 

Yoona stood there waiting for Yuri.

Yuri set the timer on the camera and she ran over. 

Taeyeon and I were holding hands behind Tiffany’s back.

That was literally what we were doing.

The camera light blinked as we prepared for the shot.

We all smiled widely.

I let go of Taeyeon’s hands immediately once the shot was taken. I didn’t want to be seen.

We snapped a few more shots of the beautiful scenery before reluctantly leaving the spot. It was really beautiful. The air was really fresh as well.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

Tiffany planted a kiss on my cheeks while we were posing for the photo.

I was worried. Jessica wasn’t smiling. 

I hope she’s not mad.

I took some pictures with Yuri and Yoona. 

“Why don’t you and Jessica take one together too.” Tiffany suggested after I was done with taking a photo with both Yuri and Yoona.

The both of us walked towards the tree.

I stood there uncertain of what I should do. Jessica was standing away from me.

I sure hope she isn’t mad because of the kiss Tiffany gave me on the cheeks.

We stood there stiffly. “The both of you look like robots!” Tiffany exclaimed.

“Will you die if you showed more joy. Move closer.” Tiffany instructed us.

I took the chance to place my arms around Jessica’s waist.

I smiled. 

After that it was a group picture.

Tiffany had her arms around the both of us. Yuri was busy fiddling with the camera and positioning it on the scooter.

I saw that Jessica’s hands were hanging loosely behind Tiffany.

I took the opportunity to hold her hands. 

Yuri came running. 

We all prepared for the picture.

The lights blinked and the flash went off. 

Jessica pulled her hands away immediately.

Omo she must really be jealous.

I was worried sick.

We were ready to leave. I wish I could spend time here alone with Jessica. 

We got on the scooter. 

Jessica got on and placed her arms loosely around my waist.

We all started the motor and moved off together. 

I intentionally lagged behind.

I held Jessica’s hands and pulled it tighter around my waist.

“Sica darling why are you not holding me tight.” 

“Tiffany’s kiss is enough. You don’t need me to hold you.” Jessica replied brashly.

“Sica darling you aren’t mad are you?” I asked nervously

She kept quiet. I was panicking inside.

“You know I really really really really love you right? I love only you and you alone.”

I tried explaining.

“I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you.” I continued.

Suddenly I heard her giggling. 

“I know. I was just fooling around. I love you and I know you love me too.” Jessica said to me sweetly.

I was relieved. She really had me believing that she was mad for a moment.

She tightened her grip around my waist and gave me a gentle kiss on the nape of my neck. 

Jessica really knew how to make me smile.

Chapter 34

Jessica’s Perspective

Dusk came before we knew it. We had plenty of fun the entire day. 

We travelled around all the surrounding islands and we took many beautiful pictures. 

The most beautiful place was definitely the first destination we arrived at. The one with the solitary Cherry tree and the beautiful view from the cliff overhanging the vast blue ocean.

We had another fire going. Yuri and Yoona were feeding each other and cuddling as usual.

I was sitting by the fire with Tiffany. It was another cold night. It was comforting to have a blazing fire to warm our hands and feet.

I wished Taeyeon and I could snuggle together for warmth though. 

Where is Taeyeon anyway? 

She said she had a tummy upset and had to go and relief herself. It has been a while since she left. 

I was worried. 

“I wonder where Taeyeon went.” Tiffany spoke my mind.

“Yeah I wonder if she’s ok.” I said in my best poker face. I tried not to reveal too much. 

I couldn’t afford for Tiffany to find out.

I was not able to picture how she would react if she found out.

It was too scary. I forced myself to stop thinking about it.

“Do you want to go and look for her? I’m worried for her.” Tiffany asked me.

“Sure let’s go.” I said instantly. I was dying to see if Taeyeon was ok.

I just couldn’t appear more anxious than Tiffany. That would have been wrong.

The both of us stood up and dusted the sand off our clothing.

We started in the direction of the bathroom when we saw a short figure in the distance.

It was Taeyeon. She was walking back cheerily.

She waved when she saw us.

“Yaaa Yaaa Yaaa Yaaaa Kim Taeyeon what do you think you’re doing? Do you know Tiffany was so worried for you when you were gone? What took you so long!” I ranted at Taeyeon.

“I’m sorry. I just had a really bad tummy upset.” Taeyeon said rubbing her tummy.

“Maybe next time I’ll just get Tiffany to go with me so she wouldn’t worry so much.” Taeyeon said intentionally. She knew I was worried and she was having fun teasing me.

“You better make sure you do that then Kim Taeyeon. Tiffany you make sure you take her word for it and tag along every time she goes to the bathroom.” I said triumphantly. 

I knew that Taeyeon would rather go alone than have Tiffany on her back. Taeyeon never did know how to react around Tiffany.

Tiffany had already settled down and started peeling a sweet potato.

Taeyeon sat beside Tiffany half expecting me to sit on the other side of Tiffany.

I walked over to Yuri and Yoona and sat down beside them instead.

“You don’t mind if I sat here with the both of you right? We should give the two of them some time alone.” I said loud enough for both Tiffany and Taeyeon to hear.

“Jess stop being silly. You can always sit here with us. But then again thanks for being so considerate.” Tiffany said to me as she plonked her head on Taeyeon’s shoulders.

“My pleasure.” I said while helping myself to a sweet potato.

“Taeyeon ah enjoy the moment and make sure you keep Tiffany warm. It’s a cold night.” I said with the expectation of Taeyeon not knowing how to react.

“I sure will take care of Tiffany. Don’t you worry Jessica.” Taeyeon said as she placed her arms around Tiffany.

Oh my god. Taeyeon was taunting me.

 I felt a pang of jealousy. 

She sure was a fast learner.

It was just this morning that I teased her about the peck Tiffany gave her on the cheeks.

Tiffany started laughing. “Oh my stop it the both of you. You’re making it sound like some lovers tiff. The both of you are not secretly dating behind my back are you?”

I saw Taeyeon stiffen at the question.

Tiffany laughed again. I laughed together with her. “Stop teasing Tiffany look at how Taeyeon is reacting. She’s all uptight now.” 

In my heart I was worried. I just hid it well. I should be more careful. 

I continued picking at my sweet potato.

“Ok girls we’re going into our tents now. It was a long day and now we’re going to have a long night.” Yuri said to all of us.

“I love long nights.” Yoona said as she held Yuri’s hands. 

We all laughed. The both of them were such jokers sometimes. 

The both of them disappeared into their tent.

“Jessica come on over. Don’t sit there alone.” Tiffany called for me to move over beside her.

I went over and sat beside her. We sat there and talked. 

Before we knew it the fire was dying down.

Tiffany yawned. “Let’s turn in.” 

“Ok.” I said. 

We dusted ourselves before we went into the tent.

We slid into the slipping bags taking our respective positions. 

“Good night.” The three of us said together.

Taeyeon took my hands. I pulled it away.

I was still slightly mad at her.

She made for my hands again.

I tried to pull away but she held on tight.

I gave up trying to pull my hands away. 

I fell asleep with my hands in hers.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

We crawled into the sleeping bags.

I could sense that Jessica was upset because of what I did. I felt bad.

I wanted to apologise to her but I couldn’t. Not when Tiffany was there.

I gently held Jessica’s hands.

She pulled away.

She sure was mad at me.

I reached for her hands again and this time I held on with a tight grip.

She gave up struggling and fell asleep with her hands in mine.

I waited and made sure that Tiffany was asleep too. 

After what seemed like forever Tiffany finally fell asleep.

Jessica didn’t know but she was hugging my arm and snuggling up close. 

I couldn’t bear to wake her up but I had to.

I gently nudged her. 

She didn’t stir.

I nudged her again.

She lay motionless.

I released her hands and pulled my arms away.

She woke up. 

Sometimes what you least expect works the best.

I signalled for her to follow me outside the tent.

She was still dazed. We sneaked out. 

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I was sleeping soundly. Suddenly it felt like a part of me had been taken away from me. I woke up only to find that Taeyeon took her hands away.

She pointed towards the entrance of the tent.

I was lost for a moment. 

She started moving and I realised that she wanted me to follow her out of the tent.

I wonder what she was up to.

I was too sleepy to ask. I just followed her.

When we were outside of the tent. She took my hands and walked towards one of the scooters.

She pushed it further down the path so we wouldn’t wake the rest with the sound of the motor.

When we were far enough she started the engine. 

“Come on Sica darling hop on.” 

“Where are we going” I asked her puzzled. I really wanted to sleep.

“Trust me. Hop on.” She said gently holding my hands and kissing it. 

I climbed on and hugged her really tight. 

I leaned my head on her back. I could hear her heartbeat.

We rode off. She placed her warm hands gently atop mine. 

She held my hands all the way except for when we were going around tight corners.

I wonder where she was bringing me.

Chapter 35

Jessica’s Perspective

After about a fifteen minutes ride we arrived at the top of the hill. It was where we were this morning. 

I wonder why Taeyeon brought me here.

She pulled to a stop. 

“Come on darling let’s get off.” Taeyeon said to me as she placed both arms on mine. I still had my arms wrapped around her waist.

“But I just want to hold you like this and enjoy the view.” I refused to get off. 

“Now now someone sure is stubborn. I’m sure Tiffany will listen to me when I tell her something.” Taeyeon said. I let go of her immediately and smacked her lightly on her back.

She sure had her way of making me move.

I stood up and walked away. I walked towards the Cherry tree and stood with my back facing her. I stared out at the darkness of the night.

I was waiting for her to come over and hug me from behind.

I wanted her to pacify me.

I stood there and waited. 

After about a minute, there was still no sign of her. 

What is that Kim Taeyeon doing? She brought me up here to make me mad?

The more I thought the more I fumed. I wanted to turn around and shout at her.

I couldn’t take it anymore. I turned around. 

The frown on my face disappeared when I saw what I saw.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

How am I supposed to pull it off?

There was only so much I could plan and prepare for.

The rest was up to how well I could influence her and made her do what I wanted.

I was nervous. I didn’t know if I could pull off the perfect surprise.

She was still holding on tightly to me.

“Come on darling let’s get off.” I said with both hands on hers.

“But I just want to hold you like this and enjoy the view.” Jessica refused to get off.

Ah ha! Here’s my chance.

“Now now someone sure is stubborn. I’m sure Tiffany will listen to me when I tell her something.” 

I was sure she would get upset after what happened earlier this evening.

Indeed she did.

She hit me lightly and got up.

She walked towards the Cherry tree. 

Great. Just where I want her. 

I hurried over silently. I knew she was waiting for me to pacify her. 

I quickly used the cherry blossoms that littered the floor and wrote the following words.

‘Sica ah I will love you forever’ I surrounded the words with a big heart made of the same flowers.

I placed the four tea-light candles I hid in my pocket around to light up the words.

I stood there with my hands in my pockets. I was waiting for her to turn around.

Finally she turned. I knew she wanted to yell at me, but the moment she saw what was on the ground her face changed.

I pushed the button on my MP3 player at that perfect moment.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

I saw what Taeyeon wrote on the ground. 

Silly girl.

At that moment I heard a beautiful song playing. ‘I finally found someone’ was playing in the background.

It added to the mood. It was so romantic.

“May I have the pleasure to dance with the most beautiful girl on earth?” Taeyeon said as she extended her hands to me.

I took her hands. She led me under the huge cherry tree. She placed her hands on my waist. 

I placed my hands on her shoulders. 

We swayed to the music. We took slow small steps.

She looked me straight in the eye. “I’m glad I found you.” She said soothingly her voice blending in perfectly with the music.

We held the gaze as we moved to the rhythm.

I was floating like a feather. I felt light headed. I placed my head against her shoulders. 

We were still moving to the music. She pulled me closer to her.

Our hearts were beating together. 

The wind blew gently. The cherry blossoms atop started to drift towards the ground.

It felt like it was snowing cherry blossoms. 

When the song ended. Taeyeon gently took my left hand.

She kissed my finger while she looked deeply into my eyes.

Her other hands reached into her pockets.

She never stopped looking me in the eye. 

She slipped something onto my ring finger.

It was a ring she braided using grass.

“Jessica Jung don’t ever leave me. Promise me you’ll be mine forever?” 

I was melting. She was just so romantic and sweet. 

She brought my hands tenderly towards her lips and gently kissed them again.

“I promise.” I kissed her on the lips. 

We held each other tight.

I held her tight. I knew in that moment that if I ever lost her I would die.

She pulled apart and wrapped an arm around my waist. We walked towards the tree. She leaned me against the tree trunk.

The moonlight was glowing through the leaves of the tree. It shone done on her beautiful face.

It made her look like an angel sent to me from god.

She brushed my hair aside and ran her fingers along my cheeks and under my chin.

“Always remember this kiss we share under the Cherry tree. It marks the moment that you are officially mine.”

She tilted my chin upwards and very very affectionately placed her lips down on mine.

We held our lips together.

I closed my eyes. 

I offered myself to her. 

My lips parted first followed by hers. My tongue slowly caressed hers. Her tongue gently massaged mine. We moved our tongues in a slow indiscriminate manner. We held the pace. It was a deliberate gentle and loving kiss.

I couldn’t stop kissing her. 

Midway through the kiss she moved her head back to look at me. 

I moved unconsciously towards her lips. I wanted more.

She gave me a peck on the lips.

“I love you.” She said as she gave me a loving kiss on the forehead.

I hugged her. I leaned against her chest. I love the sound of her heartbeat.

It was soothing. 

“Come on darling. Let’s go back before the rest of them realise we are gone.” She said while stroking my hair.

I held on to her and shook my head.

I didn’t want to have to let go of her. I didn’t want to go back.

“Come on if Tiffany wakes up and finds us missing we will have a hard time explaining.” She managed to convince me. 

Tiffany was my weakness. 

Taeyeon hugged my shoulders close while we walked back to the scooter. It was a cold night. 

I sat down behind her and wrapped my arms tightly around her. I rested my chin on her left shoulder blade. 

I gave her a kiss on her ear lobes. “I love you.”

I only had a short fifteen minutes before we had to go back to reality and hide our longing for each other. It was getting more difficult for me. 

The fear of losing Tiffany and hurting her was great. I wanted to tell her but I didn’t know how. 

I was stuck once more. 

Can I survive and just share Taeyeon with her like this forever?

I did not want to think about all this at the moment.

I kissed Taeyeon gently again. 

The entire ride back I think I told Taeyeon ‘I love you’ about thirty times. No number of ‘I love you’ was able to express the love I felt inside. 

Unfortunately the happy moments always go by quickly.

We were back at the campsite. She killed the motor and we pushed the scooter back to where our tents were.

We peeked into the tent. Tiffany was still soundly asleep.

We crawled into the sleeping bag silently, afraid to wake Tiffany up. 

This time around, I was the one who reached for Taeyeon’s hands. I held it close to my body.

I kissed Taeyeon one last time on the lips before we drifted off to sleep.

Chapter 36

Jessica’s Perspective

I perpetually woke up to Tiffany towering over Taeyeon and I.

“Wake up wake up wake up.” She was shaking the both of us.

I realised my hands were still interlocked with Taeyeon’s.

I quietly took my hands away.

“Ok ok I’m up. Stop shaking or you’ll shake my brains out already.” I said. 

I was in a good mood. I rubbed my eyes.

“Good morning Taetae!” Tiffany said as Taeyeon opened her eyes. 

I left the tent to wash up first. 

Taeyeon came shortly. 

I sneaked a kiss onto her cheeks while she was still brushing her teeth and I went back to join the rest.

I took a piece of bread and buttered it. I started eating. 

“Jessica I want to go for a nice morning walk. Want to come along?” Tiffany asked me.

“Sure. Let me finish up first.” I said.

“Oh come on it’s just a piece of bread. You can eat as we walk. It’s such a beautiful day.” Tiffany said while she dragged me up on my feet.

“It’s about time the two best friends spend some time alone together.” Tiffany said.

It is true. We have not been spending time together. 

Even though the three of us were always together our focus was always on Taeyeon.

Why? Taeyeon is just too attractive.

Tiffany hooked her arms around my arms as I ate.

We were strolling along the beach.

“It’s been a long time since we spent time together. Just the two of us. Doesn’t it feel good?” Tiffany asked me.

“Of course it does.” I replied still munching on my bread.

“So how have you been feeling these few days? It seems like you have been in a better mood. You seemed bothered previously.” Tiffany said to me still looking ahead.

I had a secret to keep. I was afraid to give it away.

I was afraid it would slip out.

“Oh yes I was bothered previously about the whole GDragon and DragonBz thing.” I said.

I’m still bothered now. Just that I’m in love and I’m bothered because my best friend is in love with the same person I’m in love with. What should I do. 

“I see so is there anything else going on in your life now that you want to talk about?” Tiffany asked me. 

I was panicking.

I continued chewing on what was left of the piece of bread.

“Jess are you ok? You seem nervous.” Tiffany asked concerned.

I continued chewing.

Should I tell her?

I know that there is a problem. It has not disappeared. I have just been avoiding it. It is time to face it.

I took a deep breath.

“Well Tiffany. No there’s really nothing much I have to talk about now.” I chickened out.

“Oh ok. So how’s the new guy that you met online?” She continued.

“Oh the new guy.” I remembered what we talked about on the bus.

One lie leads to another. Never start lying unless you never intend to stop. 

“Yes the new guy. So how are things?” Tiffany continued.

“Well he’s really sweet. He’s perfect. I know he’s the one.” I said thinking of Taeyeon.

“So when are you going to bring him out and let me meet him?” Tiffany questioned.

She caught me off guard. Again.

“Oh I’m uhh..When the time is ripe.” I lied. 

When will the time ever be ripe? How can I tell you about Taeyeon.

“Well you already know he’s the one so isn’t the time ripe already?” Tiffany continued pushing.

I was facing the highest stress point in my life. 

I never ever felt this much stress before. Not even when I had three exams in a day.

I guess when you have too much on the line everything is just so much more difficult.

“Oh well. I just need more time.” I said. 

That wasn’t a lie. I needed more time to prepare myself.

I wonder if I’ll ever be ready to tell Tiffany the truth. Our friendship was very important to me.

The basis of all relationships is trust. This is by far the biggest betrayal. I felt really guilty.

I hated myself. I feel like I have failed Tiffany. 

I shudder at all the faith that she has in me. I have let her down.

I was a bad friend. The nicer she was to me the more guilt engulfed me.

I have been selfish for far too long. I have indulged in my desires long enough.

I realised that the braided grass ring was still sitting on my finger.

I almost forgot that is was there. 

I slipped it off and kept it in my pocket.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I returned from washing up and I saw the two friends walk away.

Is Jessica going to tell Tiffany now? I hope she does.

I sat down and helped myself to a piece of bread.

“So how’s sneaking off with Jessica uhn-nee every night?” Yoona asked. It almost made me choke on the mouthful of bread that I was about to swallow.

“Yoona ah you should ask her how does it feel to be holding Jessica’s hands secretly while they were taking the picture as well.” Yuri added on smiling a cheeky smile.

The both of them were hopeless. They enjoyed teasing me.

“Stop it I don’t want Tiffany returning and hearing all this.” I said worried. I remembered my promise to Jessica.

“Don’t worry we know that Jessica doesn’t want to let Tiffany know yet.” Yuri said.

What were the both of them? International spies or something?

I was staring at the both of them in amazement.

“Yes I know we are amazing. We know everything. Get over it already.” Yoona said casually like it was not a big deal.

“Anyway we think that the both of you should just tell Tiffany already. One broken heart is better than three. If this continues it will be much worse if Tiffany finds out herself.” Yuri advised expertly.

I agreed with her. But I had to respect Jessica’s wishes.

“I know.” I muttered. I dug my toes into the soft cool sand.

“If only everything is as easy as it seems. Fear always gets in the way.” I continued.

“Sometimes we all know the right thing to do but we just can’t bring ourselves to do it. Humans are just so….weird?” I said while I wrote Jessica’s name in the sand.

“Anyway both of you keep this secret alright? I’ll just do what Jessica wants me to do and hopefully she’ll come around it one day. What she needs now is my support.” I said looking up at the both of them.

They nodded. 

“Anyway they are back.” Yuri said while pointing at the sand.

Oh. 

Jessica’s name was written in the sand. I wiped my hands across the name. It disappeared.

Chapter 37

Taeyeon’s Perspective

We were supposed to go fishing after breakfast. 

We had to rent fishing rods and get some bait first.

“So who wants to go and get to rods?” I asked.

In actual fact only Yuri, I or Tiffany could ride. But Tiffany was not stable enough to pillion a passenger. So either Yuri had to go or I had to go accompanied by one other.

Nobody reacted. It seemed like everyone was feeling lazy.

“Ok I’ll go. Who else wants to come along? I need one person to come along with me.” I asked hoping Jessica would volunteer.

“Tiffany can go.” Jessica said.

“But I’m feeling so lazy today. I just want to laze in the sand.” Tiffany said as she was laying under the shade and enjoying the breeze.

“Why don’t you go instead?” Tiffany shot Jessica a look.

“No I’m lazy too.” Jessica replied.

What just happened? Jessica passed on a chance to spend time with me alone.

“Someone has to come with me. Yuri? Yoona?” I asked looking at the couple.

“No we’re lazy too.” They seemed to be intentionally forcing one of the girls to go with me.

“Ok….So am I supposed to carry the rods back by myself?” I asked slightly irritated. 

I was confused at Jessica’s behaviour. It was just last night that she was so stuck on me. 

“Come on lazy bums someone has to come with me. Quick make a decision. I don’t care who comes.” I said standing there tapping my feet impatiently.

Jessica Jung you better offer to come.

“Tiffany you go.”  Jessica said.

I couldn’t believe my ears. 

What was she doing? 

“No Jess. Why don’t you go. Even if you kill me I’m not going.” Tiffany insisted.

“Tiffany you’re passing up a chance to spend time with your darling Taetae. Are you sure?” Jessica prodded Tiffany with her fingers. 

“Affirmative. I’m sure. My darling Taetae can go with my best friend Jessica Jung because Tiffany Hwang is feeling so lazy right now.” Tiffany made the statement and shut her eyes.

Nobody was budging. Jessica refused to go as well.

“Fine I’ll just go and rent it myself. I hope all of you will be happy when the stupid rods hinder my riding and I crash and die.” I said in spite. I was upset that Jessica refused to come along.

I walked away.

“Awwww Taeyeon uhn-nee. I’ll go with you.” Yoona ran over and held my arms.

*** 

Yuri’s Perspective

Yoona and I refused to budge. We wanted to force the rest of them to come to terms with what was going on. They had a big problem and it had to be solved.

It was pitiful. Taeyeon seemed to be tossed around like a ball.

Both Yoona and I shook our heads at the situation.

Jessica, Tiffany, and even Taeyeon. The three of them were really stubborn people.

It was a different kind of obstinacy but they were all immovable nonetheless.

I tapped on Yoona’s shoulders lightly when Taeyeon left in frustration.

“Awwww Taeyeon uhn-nee. I’ll go with you.” Yoona said running over. 

That’s 

my

 girl. 

***

Yoona’s Perspective

We were finally back with the fishing rods. I missed Yuri in the short time we were apart. 

I ran back to her and gave her a big hug. 

“I missed you. Did you miss me?” I said looking at Yuri.

“Of course I did.” Yuri said lovingly.

“Ok let’s all go fishing now.” Yuri called out to the rest of them.

We all stood up and walked along the beach. There was a Jetty further down the beach. We intended to fish there.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

We arrived at the Jetty that Jessica and I watched the Sun rise from. I glanced at her secretly to see if she had any reaction.

She had none.

Why was she so cold today? Did I do something wrong again?

“Ok let’s start fishing.” I said.

“Tiffany and Taeyeon you share a rod. I’ll have my own.” Jessica said while grabbing a rod.

“Do you need help with the bait?” I asked Jessica.

“No it’s ok Yuri can help me. You just concentrate on your own rod together with Tiffany.” Jessica said. 

It seemed like she was intentionally avoiding me on top of fervently pushing me towards Tiffany. 

Maybe she just didn’t want to be so obvious.

We were all set and we all sat down and waited. It was a lazy day.

We sat in a straight row.

Tiffany was in between Jessica and I. 

We were all looking out into the horizon and enjoying the peace.

I leaned back and saw that Jessica’s hands were right behind Tiffany. 

I faked a stretched and touched her hands.

She pulled away immediately.

Something was definitely wrong.

It was worrying. 

It was just yesterday that she was whispering sweet nothings in my ears. 

How can she be behaving so drastically different in a matter of hours?

We had to talk.

After a day of fishing we managed to catch six fishes. It wasn’t too bad.

We went back, cleaned and gutted the fish. They were now sitting nicely atop the barbecue drizzled in salt.

I could not wait for the night to come so that I could talk to Jessica privately.

I found the right moment when Jessica stood up to go to the bathroom.

“Hey Jessica wait up I need to go too.” I said tagging along.

When we were out of earshot I asked her. “What’s going on Sica darling? Why are you so cold to me today.” 

“Taeyeon ah. We have to talk.” She replied.

“I know that is why I followed you.” I explained.

We made sure we were out of view before we started.

“So what is going on exactly? What happened this morning when you went for a walk with Tiffany?” I said as I held her hands.

“Nothing much. We just talked and she asked me stuff. I never did come down to telling her about us though. I couldn’t do it. Taeyeon ah I’m afraid to lose Tiffany’s friendship. We have known each other since we were young.” Jessica told me once again.

I already knew that she was not ready to let Tiffany know and that is why I kept quiet about it too.

“I know. That is why I’m here silently supporting you until you are ready to tell her.” I said gently.

“But I don’t think I will ever be able to tell her. Maybe we shouldn’t be together? I feel bad everytime I see her. This guilt I feel inside is devouring me. Even if Tiffany tells me that it is ok for me to be with you. I don’t know how I can ever face her because I know she loves you.” Jessica said tearing.

“But..but..You just promised me yesterday…that you’ll never leave me?” I muttered in doubt. 

“I’m sorry Taeyeon ah. I just can’t bear to see Tiffany upset. It may be better for all three of us.” Jessica said. It was akin to slamming me into a great big wall.

“Ok… If you are sure that is what you want and that makes you happy. I will respect your wishes. Only because I love you.” I said hoping she would change her mind.

“Yes Taeyeon. I want my friend to be happy.” Jessica said in between tears.

I turned and walked away despondently. I was an empty shell. 

My heart did not belong to me anymore. 

No wonder I couldn’t feel the pain. That was because I have lost my heart.

And now I’m afraid I'm losing my mind too.

Chapter 38

Tiffany’s Perspective

I was on the way to the bathroom. I stopped in my tracks when I saw Taeyeon holding Jessica’s hands.

I could not let them see me.

I hid in the shadows. Luckily for me it was already dark.

Jessica was crying. I heard their conversation. It was painful for me to be standing there listening to all that.

Taeyeon just got rejected. She looked like a zombie.

It must be too hard for her to manage.

I brushed my pain aside. I had more important things to do now.

This is the perfect opportunity for me. This was exactly what I needed. I had to act on it quickly before I lost the opportunity.

I quickly moved in the shadows so that I could appear from the path and seem like I was just heading for the bathroom.

I did just that and ‘bumped’ into Taeyeon along the path.

“Oh Taetae you’re done already? Where’s Jessica?” I asked even though I witnessed everything. I had to pretend that I didn’t know anything at all.

“Oh Jessica. She’s still in the toilet. She asked me to return first.” Taeyeon was totally lying. 

“Do you have to go to the toilet too?” Taeyeon asked me worried that I’ll get there and witness Jessica crying.

“Oh I was just going to look for the both of you. The fish is ready.” I made up a story on the spot.

“Come along now.” I held Taeyeon’s hands as we walked towards the camp site.

*** 

Taeyeon’s Perspective

I saw the last person I wanted to see walking towards me. It was Tiffany.

I could not let her see Jessica crying. I couldn’t let her know. The last thing Jessica said kept ringing in my head.

‘Yes Taeyeon ah. I want my friend to be happy.’

Thankfully she was just here to inform us to hurry back for the fish.

She held my hands and we walked back.

I could not be bothered to pull my hands away.

‘I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy. I want my friend to be happy.’

It was buzzing incessantly in my head. I kept hearing her last words to me.

It was impossible to shut out of my head.

We arrived and I sat down. Tiffany sat beside me.

“Here let’s share a fish.” Tiffany said to me.

I nodded.

Jessica came back at that moment.

I saw that her eyes were slightly red.

I hope nobody else noticed.

She sat down beside Tiffany.

Tiffany started peeling off a piece of the fish and fed me.

I opened my mouth. 

I was still thinking of Jessica. I wonder if this will make her feel better. I’m making Tiffany happy.

Jessica got her own fish and started eating.

Tiffany continued feeding me.

I just ate. 

*** 

Yuri’s Perspective

I was watching them. Something seemed to have happened.

Taeyeon and Jessica left together and Tiffany left shortly after.

Taeyeon and Tiffany came back together? And then came Jessica with red eyes.

I sat there deep in thought as Yoona continued feeding me.

“Is something the matter?” Yoona whispered to me.

I just nodded.

She knew what that meant.

It meant I’ll talk to her about it later.

Taeyeon was not herself too. She seemed to show a blank expression.

That didn’t seem normal at all.

It was mind boggling. For once this was a mystery I could not solve.

It was getting cloudy. The sky was getting cloudy for one. Their relationship was getting cloudy too.

I couldn’t see what was going on. 

I sat there and just continued observing.

We were all done eating. There were only bones left. 

“Taetae I’m cold.” Tiffany said as she hugged Taeyeon and snuggled up close.

Hmmm..Tiffany was especially proactive tonight as well.

Jessica showed a familiar expression. Bittersweet it was. 

That was my first clue. Taeyeon and Jessica must have ended things.

I was sure of that. Her bittersweet expression reminded me of when Jessica found out she was in love with Taeyeon but she was happy for Tiffany at the same time. It was definitely not jealousy.

How can things take such a drastic turn and end up in the exact same situation again? 

Only now Jessica and Taeyeon both knew that they were in love with each other. That was the only difference in the current situation.

It started to drizzle. Sure seemed like the beginning of a long dreary night. 

“Bad weather. We better make sure we keep our stuff properly so nothing gets wet.” I reminded the rest.

We started moving quick. 

“We’ll see you tomorrow morning. Hopefully it won’t be a thunderstorm tonight.” I said hurriedly ushering Yoona into the tent.

*** 

Jessica’s Perspective

Tiffany was all over Taeyeon. 

It was painful to see but yet I would think that this pain was easier to deal with than confessing to Tiffany. 

It started to drizzle so we hurriedly packed everything away and disappeared into the tent.

Right now I wish I could be in Yuri and Yoona’s tent. 

I didn’t want to have to see Tiffany and Taeyeon together but I didn’t want Tiffany to have to experience the same pain that I was going through as well.

Either way it hurts.

“So what do we do now?” Tiffany asked. 

“I don’t know. Sleep?” I replied. I really didn’t want to have to be awake now.

“Ok then. Hopefully the bad weather will clear soon.”  She replied.

Taeyeon was silent all this time. 

The three of us crawled into the sleeping bag. 

“Taetae I’m feeling cold can you hug me?” I heard Tiffany request of Taeyeon.

I was anticipating Taeyeon’s reply. She didn’t say a word.

“Thank you Taetae.” I heard Tiffany say. 

Taeyeon must have hugged her.

I turned my back towards them facing the side of the tent. 

“Taetae tonight reminds me of the night you were sick. It was a stormy night too. Do you remember anything?” Tiffany asked Taeyeon.

Why did she have to do this now. I was trapped. I had no choice but to listen.

“I remember that I almost tripped and fell flat in your face. We were this close and then we kissed. As much as it wasn’t real then, the kiss felt good.” Tiffany said reminiscing.

“Yes I didn’t remember a thing. I only remember that I woke up and you were laying beside me. I was sleep talking that night. I’m sorry Tiffany.” Taeyeon replied. 

“So who were you thinking of when you said I love you?” Tiffany asked bluntly.

“I..I..I’m in love with this girl.” Taeyeon stammered. She was caught by surprise.

“I see. So how are things between the both of you now?” Tiffany continued fishing for information.

“She took my heart and she left me.” Taeyeon said with much pain.

I’m sorry Taeyeon ah. I’m sorry. I’m still yours. At least my heart will always be yours. That promise I can’t break.

I was tearing silently.

I wanted to turn around and hug her. I know I shouldn’t. After all this was all because of me. 

I should never have kissed her. I caused her all this pain.

“Come on Taetae move closer to me.” I heard Tiffany say while pulling Taeyeon closer.

Somehow the thought of that pained me more and more.

Would I be able to survive if Tiffany and Taeyeon got together? 

I was having serious doubts now.

Chapter 39

Yoona’s Perspective

Yuri and I zipped up the tent.

The rain was falling harder by the moment. 

I’m glad that I had Yuri by my side.

“So baby what’s going on? Did you see the three of them?” I asked Yuri worried.

“Yes baby. I think Jessica ended it with Taeyeon. Taeyeon would never do that.” Yuri said as we cuddled.

The strong winds were blowing strongly at our tent.

It seemed like a storm was going to come tonight. Hopefully everything will be alright.

“I feel so sad for Taeyeon uhn-nee. She’s such an innocent party caught between the two friends.” I said feeling slightly upset.

“Baby did you notice anything different about Tiffany tonight?” Yuri asked for my view.

“Well it seems like she’s trying harder to be close to Taeyeon uhn-nee. Why do you ask?” I said looking up at Yuri. She was deep in thought.

“I suspect that Tiffany witnessed whatever happened. It is just a speculation but I suspect she did. Why else would she react the way she did? The past few days she wasn’t like that. Do you think so?” Yuri waited for my opinion.

“Oh I don’t know..I don’t care who Taeyeon uhn-nee ends up with. I just want her to be happy.” I said as I pulled myself closer to Yuri.

“I know. But it seems like a tough situation. I don’t think Taeyeon will ever like Tiffany that way. All that she is doing now I’m sure she is doing for Jessica. Right not we can’t do much. We have interfered too much. It is time to just watch and be there for whoever needs us.” Yuri sighed.

The both of us held each other tight and cuddled in the sleeping bag.

***

Taeyeon’s Perspective

The winds were getting stronger the rain was falling harder. The temperatures were dropping.

I was worried. 

Tiffany and I were huddling together.

She had been asking me questions. I answered her hoping to let Jessica know that she is still the one I love and nothing will ever change that.

Jessica had her back towards me. I really wanted to pull her close to me. I wanted to hold her not Tiffany.

Even though that was what I wanted,I had to respect what she asked of me. 

I was sad, I was hurt, I was in pain. But I knew it was not easy for Jessica as well.

Tiffany was consoling me. 

How ironical. 

Tiffany was the reason why Jessica did not want to be with me and here she was comforting me.

Was this what Jessica wanted? Did she want me to be there for Tiffany? Did she want Tiffany to be there for me? 

I would do anything Jessica wanted of me. If I could I would do anything at all to make her feel better even if it meant that it was at my expense.

I could never love another person as much. 

I could never love another person.

I wished that Jessica knew that.

***

Jessica’s Perspective

I kept quiet all this time. I didn’t want them to know that I was crying.

I could not.

It seemed like they were making progress. 

Thanks to the stormy weather Tiffany could hug her all night long.