Spark's Fly

Chapter 7

Jisoo visits Teddy on her own the next time. I only hear about it afterwards.

Though I’m a little disappointed I’m excited when I get the news, “he loved the new song I wrote.”

My heart drops for a moment at that thought I wasn’t the first to hear the song, before it rises with joy at the good news.

“We need to celebrate.”

Jisoo asks if she can bring her boyfriend and I begrudgingly agree. I haven’t made a point to learn his name. I know it’s childish and I don’t really understand the reason behind it, but maybe it’s because I don’t think he’s good enough for her.

My opinion on this is only emphasized when Jisoo leaves to use the restroom. I stay behind, which is a mistake, as her boyfriend, who acts like he’s already three drinks in, asks in slurred speech, “You and Jisoo are pretty close. Have you ever considered having a three way?” he motions to himself as my lip curls in disgust, “I would be more than willing to offer myself as the third.”

“Don’t be disgusting. You are Jisoo’s boyfriend. She should be the only girl you think about. The only girl you see.”

I slam my hand down on the table as I shoot to my feet. The action startles both of us, but I’m too angry to consider the scene I’m making. Leaving the table I head back to the bathroom, intercepting Jisoo just as she is coming out. Seeing my face she asks, “What’s wrong?” I consider telling her about her boyfriend’s words, but I can’t bring myself to say it.

“Your boyfriend was leering at another woman. He doesn’t deserve you. Let’s leave him with the check.”

Jisoo looks too stunned to respond so I lead her out of the restaurant. We get into a cab and it’s two blocks later before cool down enough to realize I’ve basically just kidnapped my friend. Glancing over I find her staring out the window.

How special was he to her? I know she’s talked about him on occasion but I never really listened. Every time I did my stomach went sour.

“I haven’t been a good friend.”

She turns to face me.

“I haven’t liked your boyfriend for a long time. And I never gave him a chance. But you deserve someone better, Jisoo. Someone who sees your inner beauty, as well as the outer. You’re,” my hands and mind pause as I consider my next words, “You’re too special to take for granted. You love so much and you deserve someone who will love you just as much.”

She takes in a slow breath as I feel my heart clench in anticipation of her response. Slowly her lips part with a smile, “Thank you, Karlie. I needed that.”

I remain still as she leans close. My body tenses when her head rests against my shoulder.

“You are a good friend.”

It’s the first time I’ve heard the word since we first said it. But this time it feels like a bullet wound. I force a smile.

“So are you.”