True but Unrequited

Now I know.

Shuhua's POV

<<Looks like you didn't succeed with your plan.>> I could recognise this voice even from miles away and just like that I became emotional even before turning around.

<<What should I do?>> I asked my mom crying without stopping. 

<<I clearly told you before that I was against it, but you didn't listen to me.>> My mom said disappointed. 

<<...but there's something that I can't ignore.>> She said which caught my attention.

<<What?>> I asked her anxiously. 

<<I can say that woman has also feelings for you.>> She said with a relaxed gaze which just my mom had and was able to calm me. 

<<But there's nothing I can do anymore, she's going to marry dad and everyone knows about it already.>> I said holding my nape facing the floor.

<<That's what you have to figure out.>> She said.

<<You don't have to protect me Shuhua. I want you to protect yourself, you're already hurt honey, don't hurt yourself more than you are right now.>> That's the last thing she said before me waking up. 

I was sweating, crying, breathless just like the other time. 

<<Shhh Shuhua, it's alright, I'm here.>> Irene said hugging me, one thing that I am thankful for despite everything that is going on right now, is her. Even back in Taiwan, there was never a moment that she wasn't there for me. 

<<I don't know what to do, is like I'm stuck and I can't move. I can't say anything, I can't tell her anything.>> I said already exhausted. 

<<I'm sorry.>> Suddenly Irene said. Why would she apologize?

<<What? For why?>> I asked her confused. 

<<Did you feel like this when I...>> She stopped.

<<..."rejected" you.>> Irene then continued sadly looking down. I lift her chin making her look at me.

<<I wasn't in love with you, it was just a crush. So no.>> I told her. When I thought I was calming down I suddenly felt a slap on my arm. 

<<Ouch! Why would you do that?>> I asked her laughing still with some tears in my eyes.

<<You're the worst Yeh Shuhua, I thought you were going to kiss me but all I got was an insult.>> She said pouting but I could sense that she was joking. 

I looked at her for a moment without talking. 

<<Do you want me to?>> I asked her approaching her. 

<<Shut up, I'll just get you water.>> Irene said before getting up and leaving the room. 

Irene's POV

"That was the worst Irene. You could've just said anything but that." I thought on my way to the kitchen. 

I took a glass from the drawer trying to not make any noise and wake up the others. I poured some cold water in it and left the kitchen.

While I was going to Shuhua's room I saw Ms. Seo behind the door. What is she doing up this late?

<<Do you need anything?>> I said causing her to flinch, probably surprised that someone else was up too.