In the end, we only regret the chances we didn't take, relationship we are afraid to have, and decisions we waited too long to take.
started on June 1st, 2022
(c) 醉也真
Among the people who played basketball, I cooperated best with my cousin initially, but I gradually connected more and more with Jaehyun. He would run in the direction of my pass as I was controlling the ball on the backcourt, run over to assist me when I was being marked, or block the opposing players for me when I went in for a layup. The understanding we had on court was much more useful than any sweet talk, and it was impossible to ignore.
One particularly hot day, my jersey was nearly soaked when I finished playing basketball. My cousin bought a few chilled bottles of cola, and I took one and gulped it down as I walked toward the grape trellis.
Irene leaned against the stone pillar behind her with her legs folded on the stone bench. When she saw me come over, she said to me a bit excitedly, "I've gotten to the part where she disguises herself as a man and takes the imperial examinations with the scholar."
"So fast! Show it to me tonight," I said as I burped loudly.
Irene showed an expression of disgust. Just as I was about to say something, I heard someone speak behind me.
"Can't you drink a bit slower?" I covered my mouth and turned my head.
Jaehyun smiled at me, and his eyes turned to Irene. He smiled as he said, "Are you Irene?"
Irene gave a "Mhm."
"I've heard a lot about you.
Jaehyun handed Irene a bottle of cola as he spoke, and to my surprise, she took it.
After being with her for so long, I knew that she never drank cola.
Irene twisted the cap and took a small sip.
Jaehyun sat down across from her, separated by the pathway, and idly spoke with her.
This kind of situation was a common occurrence when I was with Irene. It seemed like she was the ultimate target of every boy who came to talk to me. Even if they seemed to be having a good time chatting with me, they would secretly glance at her.
I had spent a lot of time adjusting my mindset. After all, Irene had done nothing wrong and treated me very well. So, I thought of her as my older sister who was desired by those silly boys, which would then make me feel just a bit of pride.
However, a devilish emotion rushed into my head at that moment, overpowering the line of defense I had built up for so long, because it was Jaehyun and because of that small response from Irene.
When I was nearly about to surrender, I heard Jaehyun ask, "I always see you here writing in a notebook. Are you doing your homework?"
"I'm writing something," Irene casually said, then looked at me and sent me a playful smile.
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At that moment, I was saved by her smile.
I thought of that little world of ours and the story that didn't belong to any boy or anyone. No one could take it away, and no one could break in.
