Unfold | Minayeon

Chapter 9: Deal

Warning: Some language may be inappropriate for some readers

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[2 Years Ago]

"I like you. Not just as a friend. I really like you Nayeon."

Nayeon glances at Jeongyeon with shocked eyes, she doesn't know how to tell her best friend that she doesn't feel the same way.

Jeongyeon's heart could explode out of her chest at any second. She can't take no for an answer. If Nayeon says no, their friendship is over. There's no going back from rejection for Jeongyeon.

"Jeongyeon..."

Nayeon has never thought of Jeongyeon romantically. They've been best friends for all of middle school, Jeongyeon was there for her when her mom entered her coma. She was her biggest supporter through all the tough times.

Every day after school Jeongyeon would walk Nayeon to her company. They would often grab snacks or ice cream. Jeongyeon would always end up making a mess or wiping ice cream on Nayeon's face.

The library was Nayeon's and Jeongyeon's favorite spot. Nayeon would always try to tutor Jeongyeon, but Jeongyeon would never take the session seriously. Instead, their eyes would brim with tears as they try to hold in their laughs, trying not to disturb the library.

Jeongyeon was Nayeon's person. She knew how to comfort her, make her laugh, and always took care of her. Nayeon can't imagine her life without Jeongyeon.

"You can't say no."

Nayeon stares at her emptily, she doesn't understand what Jeongyeon is saying.

"You will give me a chance."

Jeongyeon has never acted this way before. She's never seen her so possessive. She doesn't even own Nayeon, yet she's giving her no choice?

"What are you trying to imply, you haven't even heard my answer."

"I know your answer already."

Jeongyeon's eyes tell Nayeon everything she needs to understand. Jeongyeon knows Nayeon doesn't like her back in the way she wants, in the way she needs.

"Let's make a deal"

"Jeongyeon, we don't have to do anything. We can still be frie--"

"No. We can't. Because I will live every day knowing, knowing I'm not enough for you. So let me be enough. Give me a chance Nayeon."

"I can't"

"I'll pay you."

"What? Are you out of your mind? We're friends Jeongyeon, I love you. Just... platonically"

"Your mom, you can't afford the bills on your own. I can make your life easier Nayeon."

Nayeon is left speechless, she never expected Jeongyeon to be like this.

"My family, I'll pay for all of your mom's hospital bills. And not just that, I'll give you more than enough money so that we can go to high school together. I'll pay for your tuition as long as you attend Hanlim with me as my girlfriend."

At this point, Nayeon's face has turned sour. She can't believe Jeongyeon is trying to bribe her into a forced, fake relationship with her. Was our friendship not enough? She can't wrap her head around anything her best friend is saying.

"I- I thought I knew you. I thought I understood the kind person you are, where is the Jeongyeon I know?"

"This is me Nayeon. This is Jeongyeon that you don't know how to love, not yet. But you will fall in love with me. I'll give you all the love in the world and the riches. Anything you want I can give."