With You

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Chaewon engaged in a conversation with Yunjin, who had recently started working. However, Yunjin remained shy and uneasy around everyone. Sensing her discomfort, Chaewon decided to address the issue.

"Yunjin, let's become friends. Can we?" Chaewon asked with a warm smile.

"Sure," Yunjin replied, her voice filled with a hint of relief.

"But why do you feel uncomfortable?" Chaewon inquired, genuinely concerned.

"I'll start feeling more at ease soon, Chaewon. This place is still new to me," Yunjin explained softly.

"I understand. But is there anyone who seems distant or cold towards you?" Chaewon probed gently.

"Ah... no one, really. Sunghoon spoke to me in a friendly manner when we first met. However, since I started working here, his behavior has changed. It's not that he scolds me or avoids me, but he always seems distant. I can't help but feel like he's angry with me whenever he's around," Yunjin expressed her confusion.

"Oh, I see. The truth is, Sunghoon is currently working hard to prepare for his college entrance exams. As a result, he has become distant with everyone lately. He talks less and seems cold, but don't worry, it's temporary. Moreover, there's another reason. His mom is sick, and he has to take care of her because his dad... …well, it's a complicated situation. But please, don't be too concerned," Chaewon revealed, wanting to offer reassurance.

"Then it seems we are both facing challenging circumstances. I lost my mom two months ago to cancer, and suddenly my dad fell ill and couldn't work. That's why I needed this job," Yunjin shared her own personal struggles.

"I'm truly sorry to hear that. You should have told me earlier. I'm really sorry," Chaewon apologized sincerely.

"It's okay. But what happened with Sunghoon's dad?" Yunjin asked curiously.

"Actually, his parents are divorced," Chaewon responded, concealing the truth about Sunghoon's dad being in police custody.

As Chaewon and Yunjin continued their conversation, they were unaware that Sunghoon had overheard them. Sunghoon felt a pang of sympathy for Yunjin and resolved to speak with her soon. After work, as the other employees began leaving the restaurant, Sunghoon called out to Yunjin from behind. Both Yunjin and Chaewon turned their heads, and Chaewon, understanding the situation, smiled and said, "You guys can talk. Yeonjun is waiting for me outside." With that, Chaewon departed.

Sunghoon slowly approached Yunjin and softly asked, "Where do you live, Yunjin?"

"Nearby," she replied, her voice slightly hesitant.

"I can walk with you. It's already late," Sunghoon insisted, concern evident in his voice.

"No, it's okay," Yunjin hesitated.

"It's not okay. Let's walk," Sunghoon insisted, his determination unwavering.

Yunjin didn't protest any further, and they began walking together. Sunghoon sought to break the silence and said, "How's your preparation for the CSAT?"

"Not good," Yunjin admitted with a touch of disappointment.

"Why?" Sunghoon inquired.

"I'm not a good student like you, so I've decided to study at a local college," Yunjin replied with a hint of self-doubt.

"I'll help you then," Sunghoon offered, his voice filled with sincerity.

Yunjin turned around to face him, her expression one of confusion as she searched for understanding in his words.

Past Sent a Reader. Choi Soobin|Choi Yeonjun|Choi Beomgyu|Park SunghoonWhere stories live. Discover now