HERSHE || BBANGSAZ ||

23. Truth

Ever felt like dying to know about something but too afraid to ask because the answer might be the opposite of what you want to hear?

Hanni felt like a bullet hit her and dug a hole in her chest. Her worst fears had come true.

"I did, Hanni. And I still do."

Hanni stared blankly at Haerin as the words continuously reverberated in her head.

What would happen to her now if Haerin wants Minji back? Does she have the right to say no?

"She's my first love," Haerin continued, eyes at the floor. "But she was dumb not to recognize it."

It took Hanni a few more seconds before she even thought of saying something.

"Was that... was that the reason you left...?"

"Mmm... Partly, yes." Haerin nodded. "I don't see hope in us. I don't even think she feels the same way for me. So, when the opportunity for my dream career came knocking at my door I took it right away, without hesitation."

"But... but she... she loved you..." Hanni found it hard to say those words.

"She could have, but I'm not sure." Haerin shrugged. "She cared for me—yes—but I know it was never like what I felt for her. And when you came into the picture, I saw the proof that I was right."

Hanni was surprised to hear that. "What do you mean?"

Haerin smiled. "Minji never looked at me the way she looks at you, Hanni."

Hanni froze. She's wondering how in the world Haerin can see such things when they are only pretending.

"Which reminds me I should apologize for my behavior towards you," said Haerin. "I know I've offended you. I'm so sorry." She looked away. "My pride just can't accept the fact that Minji took the courage to be with you when you've only known each other for months. I've been with her for four years and she never did that."

Hanni felt the guilt creeping up inside her knowing she and Minji are only pretending.

"She loves you, Hanni. I can see it in her," said Haerin. "And believe me or not, I am in love with Jungwon. It's just that there's still a part in me that wanted to settle something with Minji."

Hanni felt nervous at that.

"I wanted to talk to her that's why I invited you guys here," admitted Haerin. "I should have done this earlier but I can't find time for it." She takes in a deep breath. "But since we're here now and talking, I'd like to ask for your permission, Hanni."

Hanni's nervous now more than ever.

"Jungwon will have a photoshoot tomorrow morning until noon," continued Haerin. "I think that's the perfect time for Minji and me to talk. Only if you'll allow it."

Hanni took a deep breath.

"Don't worry. I won't try anything to snatch her from you." Haerin chuckled. "Minji loves you. But I can see she's troubled as much as I am. I think it's about time we settle things up for ourselves."

Hanni glanced at Minji. She knows that she has no right to hinder this talk. In fact, this is the main reason they went there.

"Okay. I'll leave you two alone tomorrow."

Haerin let out a warm smile. She approached Hanni and bent over for a hug.

"Thanks, Hanni. Thank you."

Hanni felt Haerin's eagerness to have this talk. She rubbed Haerin's back with a hand to acknowledge her sincerity.

It's all up to Minji now.