I'M (NOT) MARRIED || YUCHAE

SEVENTEEN

chp. 17

The sun blaring through the opened curtains, Chaeryeong stirred in the bed, groaning as her eyes opened just to be momentarily blinded. Soon, she sat up in the bed and realized that the space beside her was empty.

A small part of - actually no. A big part of her wanted to wake up in Yuna's arms, warm and safe. But she'd never admit that out loud, especially not to the other woman.

As she was about to get out of the bed, what she assumed was the bathroom door had slid open, revealing a model in a grey silky robe. It was wrapped nicely around her slim figure, which had captivated Chaeryeong for a few moments before she heard the other clear her throat.

"Good morning," Yuna said with an unusual soft tone, unlike her monotonous one which she always used in the mornings. "Good sleep? You were snoring."

Embarrassment touched her cheeks, she had only hoped her snoring wasn't loud.

"Sorry about that," Chaeryeong chuckled, nervously scratching the pad of her thumb with her index. "But I had a good sleep."

"I know, your snoring was a good indicator."

Chaeryeong's eyebrows furrowed. "Then why'd you ask?"

"I don't know," Yuna chuckled with a shrug. "My attempt at being sweet?"

Chaeryeong raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by Yuna's uncharacteristic sweetness. She couldn't help but feel a flutter of warmth in her chest at Yuna's attempt, though she quickly tried to suppress it.

"Sweet? That's a first," Chaeryeong teased, feigning nonchalance while slipping out of bed, stretching and yawning. She noticed Yuna's gaze lingering on her, causing a slight blush to tint her cheeks. "What's with the robe? You're not usually one for fancy attire in the morning."

Yuna shrugged again, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Thought I'd surprise you. Plus, it's a photoshoot day for me, so might as well get into the glamorous spirit."

Chaeryeong chuckled and nodded, understanding Yuna's rationale. Modeling was an integral part of Yuna's life, and she always carried an air of confidence and elegance on set. It was a stark contrast to the casual and laid-back version of Yuna she knew intimately.

"I'm sure you'll look stunning as always," Chaeryeong said sincerely, unable to hide the admiration in her eyes.

Yuna's smile widened, and she stepped closer, the soft fabric of her robe brushing against Chaeryeong's arm. "Thanks. And you, my dear, always manage to look effortlessly beautiful, even in the simplest of clothes." She jokingly replied.

What is with this morning?

Chaeryeong's breath hitched at Yuna's words, her heart skipping a beat. She tried to maintain her composure, reminding herself not to let her guard down too easily.

"Smooth talker, aren't you?" Chaeryeong quipped, attempting to deflect her growing emotions.

Yuna chuckled, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of playfulness and affection. "Only when it comes to you."

Chaeryeong's resolve wavered, her walls crumbling bit by bit. The vulnerability in Yuna's voice was palpable, and it stirred something deep within her. She took a step closer, nearly closing the distance between them.

"You don't have to try so hard, Yuna," Chaeryeong whispered, her voice barely above a breath. "I already...care about you more than I should."

"I know," the model replied in a hushed tone, her gaze unwavering. "I'm doing it 'cause I want to."