My Love... by My Side [COMPLETED]

5: First Love

We all have love stories. Some are beautiful, filled with joy and romance. Others are funny, making us laugh. Sadly, some are tragic, bringing heartbreak and sorrow. But they are all love stories, even if they're cliché. The difference lies in the outcomes from each person's perspective.

Love stories can happen at different speeds. Some develop slowly over time, while others ignite with intense passion from the start. Some people prefer subtle connections, while others boldly seize the moment. It depends on the person, but it's still a love story.

Love is like a precious token in our lives. It represents deep emotions and connections. Love stories are woven into our personal experiences, forming an essential part of our stories.

***

"Alright, folks, get ready for the main event of tonight's auction," announced the auctioneer, drawing everyone's attention. "Make sure you have your cards ready... and Professor Dawn, no drooling this time, alright?" The lady chuckled as she teasingly glanced at the eager old professor, who was determined not to repeat last year's loss to the Albert couple.

This year, victory was his sole focus.

"Now, let me introduce you all to Miss Rae Andrews," the room collectively gasped, captivated by the beauty captured in the picture.

In that moment, his heart shattered.

"That's her, the artist behind 'Drowning'," Joe whispered, noticing Youn's shocked expression.

Memories flooded back.

His own love story.

-------------------------------

Years ago.

He was late again! Despite his attempts to be faster than the previous day, he had failed. This meant another possible punishment, marking the fourth time that week!

Running with all his might, he tightly clutched his backpack. Just one more turn, and he would safely arrive at school.

"Damn it!" From a distance, he saw the closed gate. He was officially late now. He stopped, gasping for air, his mind racing to find a solution.

Then he remembered a secret passage he had discovered with Joe the week before when they were attempting to avoid Mr. Birdman's class. He took a detour, heading toward the other side of the school compound. Searching for the hidden entrance...

"Ouch!"

"Argh!" He collided with a girl who had fallen off her bicycle. Lost in his search, he hadn't noticed her approaching from another direction.

The girl slowly got up, dusting off her uniform.

"I'm so sorry! Are you okay?" he asked, his brows furrowing with concern, his cheeks reddened.

"I'm... I'm fine..." she replied, quickly retrieving her bicycle and pushing it forward, though she stumbled slightly. He managed to catch her before she fell again.

"My ankle..."

"Let me have a look..." he motioned her to the side of the road, attempting to touch her ankle, but she swiftly smacked his hand away.

"Relax... I just want to help!"

"Thanks, but I'm fine," she insisted, standing up while enduring the pain. He felt sorry for her, but there seemed to be nothing more he could do.

She had rejected him.

He couldn't take his eyes off her, even if it was just a brief glimpse. Her sweet, soft brown eyes, delicate double eyelids, and slender upper lips were mesmerizing. Her thin frame and fair, tan skin added to her allure. With her eyes concealed behind those black bangs and her hair effortlessly tied up, she radiated true beauty in his eyes.