365 Days of You

Chapter 21

Mina feels conflicted. This isn't how she has expected her New year to go.

Min has planned a weekend for them, away from the stalking eyes of the paparazzi and she doesn't know what to tell him now.

"My dad is going to be here."

Nayeon is careful and gentle with her words, she has crushed the younger girl enough already. Besides, she already hates being the one thwarting the plans the blonde has with her friend, ex fiancé, whoever.

"And you want me to pretend as your doting wife?"

Nayeon sighs.

It isn't what she wants. It's what is needed.

She knows how cruel her father can be. It runs in the family, she supposes.

She doesn't want Mina to suffer anymore than what she has already put her through.

If her father knows she is only her contract wife he will treat her worse than she has.

"We don't have to kiss in front of him or anything, if you're worried about that." Nayeon pauses, scratching her chin nervously, "Just a little PDA. It shouldn't be that difficult."

It shouldn't be. Mina knows. Anyone in her place would jump at the chance to get close to Nayeon. Except her.

"How long is he going to be around?"

"Three weeks. Can you pretend to like me until then?"

Mina doesn't have to pretend. Because she already likes Nayeon. She doesn't tell her that.

"Sure."

When Nayeon's dad arrives, he casts Mina a suspicious glance.

"She's good looking darling. At least you have standards."

Nayeon glares at him but controls her anger.

"Dad, she's my wife and she's right here. I would like it if you didn't speak of her like she's an object."

Mina's cheek warms a little, touched at how Nayeon comes to defend her honour. She knows it means nothing, they aren't real, but she can't help the gentle fluttering her heart does.

"Right, don't get your knickers in a twist darling. I was only complimenting your wife."

They have dinner and Mina tries not to blush whenever Nayeon leans over to whisper something in her ears, sitting too close for comfort.

They are used to pretending for the paps and cameras outside. One can call them an expert even. But this is their personal space. A place Nayeon calls her home. And it feels weird to be physically affectionate here.

If Nayeon feels it too, she doesn't let it show.

"Goodnight dad."

"Goodnight darling."

He looks at them long enough to make them shift uncomfortably on their feet.

Mina follows Nayeon into her bedroom.

She has been here couple of times before, never staying for more than a few seconds.

She has never imagined in her wildest dreams that she would be sharing a bed with the singer. She sits on the edge of the bed gingerly while Nayeon disappears into the bathroom to change into her night clothes.

"Do you think he saw right through my lies?"

Is Nayeon asking her? Do her thoughts suddenly count somehow?