Catharsis | AVOOCU Sequel

Chapter 6: Once More, a Place that isn't Home

[Chapter 6: Once More, a Place that isn't Home]

And unlike all those other times, I actually held to my word. That's right, buddy— I can be credible at times!

What I didn't expect was to meet Tae-young right at the exit of the college dorm campus. "Ah." I let out, staring at his figure, which was turned away from me. His body flinched instantly, whipping his head back to meet me. The guy's body seemed to tremble out of nervousness as his hands gripped tightly on his phone. I rose a brow, why is he nervous?

"Sorry!" His head bobbed slightly for a quick bow, avoiding my gaze. "I— I should've just texted you or something..." He trailed off. I could practically hear the curse he swore under his breath. That's... surprisingly cute.

I giggled, a hand over my mouth as I closed my eye. God, that's adorable. "Don't worry about that," I waved off, letting him relax as I stepped forward. "I don't mind." I mean, I was just about to leave but— eh, better now than never. I pressed my fingers onto the straps of my backpack, rolling the balls off my feet. "So did you forget something from yesterday? I can go get it for you."

"I actually came for you." I blinked. Huh? I blinked again— what?

"Bruh, really?" He refused to meet my gaze, basically answering my question. I let out a small hum, shifting my weight to the side. Well, then... it would be rude to turn him down, especially since he came all the way here. I took another step forward, grabbing his sleeve with a small tug. In a confused daze, the man glanced down at me. "You might as well come with me."

Tae, although puzzled, stayed silent, nodding his head once. Exhaling deeply, I let go of him, showing him the way to our destination.

[———>]

I stared down at the adult, who was crouching with heavy breaths. "Damn, you are out of shape."

I swear I heard him choke on his spit. "This body... isn't... isn't used to walking this much...!" Tae panted, wiping the sweat from his forehead. His head raised to stare at me. "Why the hell do you walk so much?!"

"Because I'm too lazy to do driver's Ed." I shrugged. Also because I literally can't afford it. My footing shifted as I looking up at the building, glancing down at my reincarnated friend. "Come on, we're already here."

"What do you mean 'we're already...'" I didn't hear what he said next if he said anything at all. Well, I didn't blame him— this was probably the last thing he expected.

Thumbing my fingers against the straps of my backpack, just ignored his silence. Grabbing the door handle of the building, I swung the door open. "After you," I gestured with a hand out, feeling the joy when he grudgingly strode past me with a slightly frustrated huff.

The inside was much cooler, with the air conditioner buzzing against its crisp white walls. In front of us was a receptionist desk, where a familiar older woman was occupying it. "Oh, Ashley!" She stood up, pushing her glasses as her head perked up. I smiled, waving back at her. "You're here again."

I cleared my throat. "Mhm, hello, Mrs. Wellins," I looked around. It's been years... technically, I thought to myself. But in the end, everything looks the same— the same as when I was here before. My eyes looked over to Tae-Young, stifling a small laugh at his lost expression. "Over here, Tae." I motioned with my hand, along with him.

His head snapped back at me, opening his mouth to say something— only to clamp it shut. The dark-haired adult's brows furrowed, shoving his hands into his pockets as he trudged forward.