Wonderwall • ℍ𝕒𝕖𝕤𝕠𝕠

𝟙𝟚

Unexpected moments often bring the things we yearn and anticipate for. Love, friendship, warmth, happiness, delight, achievements, and triumph stem from authenticity. With the right people by your side, the sky's the limit and anything can be achieved.

For the past few weeks, Jisoo had been making a conscious effort to build a connection with JongSuk. Ever since the day his teacher had introduced him to the bakery, she had been going the extra mile to empathize with him. It was evident that he was going through a tough time and required help.

Despite knowing that the absence of his father was the root of JongSuk's troubles, Jisoo was determined to create a safe space for him to open up about his struggles. She longed for him to confide in her, but JongSuk remained guarded and resilient, refusing to show any vulnerability even in her presence.

Staring at her cup of black coffee, Jisoo caught a glimpse of her weary reflection mirrored in its surface. The dark liquid seemed to echo her somber mood, prompting a heavy sigh as she closed her eyes, trying to momentarily escape from the exhausting challenges that seemed to be engulfing her life.

"It looks like that coffee isn't doing the trick," a soft but steady voice spoke from in front of her. Jisoo opened her eyes to find herself facing him. Surprised, she quickly stood up, and a smile spread across his face.

"No need to stand up... it's fine... can I sit down?" he asked, smiling softly at her. Jisoo returned the smile and gave him a small nod.

"I'm sorry for being late... I... I had a lot to do today!" he explained, settling comfortably into the chair. Jisoo smiled again and shook her head softly.

"No... it's fine! I... understand... besides... I am the one who's grateful that you made it here!" Jisoo expressed. Haein felt a sudden warmth that hadn't been present before. He gazed steadily into her eyes, attempting to discern her thoughts.

"Right! How's it been with JongSuk these past few weeks?" he inquired, prompting her to take a small sip from her coffee.

"I'm grateful for what you have been doing... I have noticed JongSuk seems a bit different and better... he doesn't appear angry all the time like he used to in the past!" Jisoo spoke with a sense of relief evident in her facial expressions. Haein smiled to himself, feeling pleased that his conversations with JongSuk were making a positive impact.

"I'm glad to hear that! You know... I wanted to talk to you about something that I can't quite figure out from him yet! He doesn't open up to me much... our conversations revolve around other topics that don't really touch on his emotional well-being. And I also don't feel comfortable confiding in the people at the school about him! Do you understand what I mean?" he shared with Jisoo. She quickly nodded her head and leaned in a bit closer.

"Yes... it's better to come from me directly... I agree! What is it?" she inquired with curiosity. Haein took a deep breath before speaking.

"Where is his father?" he asked, causing her expression to dim.

"His father?" she inquired, then cleared her throat. Haein noticed her discomfort, realizing she was hesitant to discuss the topic.

"Yes... his father... where is he?" he repeated. Jisoo lightly cleared her throat, offering a smile that seemed somewhat strained.

"Well... he... he abandoned us," she stated with a lack of emotion, trying to avoid evoking pity from him, but the pain was evident in her eyes. Haein observed her closely, his brows lifting in response to the revelation.

"Oh. I'm... I'm sorry that I had to ask you that... I just really wanted to understand his behavior... to get to the actual root cause! And now it makes sense!" he expressed, attempting to meet her gaze. Jisoo finally locked eyes with him once more, offering a smile tinged with pain.