Crazy Little Thing called LOVE

Chapter 35 Rediscovering Joohyun

                                

Irene looked at Seulgi, who was now smiling warmly, and couldn't help but ask the question that had been nagging at her ever since she had learned the truth. "Seulgi, how did you know I was your childhood friend when I couldn't even recognize you?"

Seulgi's smile widened, and she leaned in closer, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia. "Joohyun, when I first saw you enter the practice room that day, I had this strong feeling that it was you. I mean, I know we've both changed a lot over the years, but some things never change."

Irene furrowed her brow, her curiosity growing. "What do you mean?"

Seulgi chuckled softly, her gaze fixed on Irene's face. "I've known you for so long, Joohyun. I know all your habits, your quirks, and even the little details that most people wouldn't notice. But the one thing that gave you away immediately was that mole on your cheek."

Irene's hand instinctively went to her cheek as she realized what Seulgi was referring to. It was a small, inconspicuous mole that she had had since childhood, a feature she had always taken for granted.

Seulgi continued, "And your cold eyes, Joohyun, those are hard to forget. They've always had this unique intensity. When I approached you that day and started a conversation, I knew for sure when I heard your dialect, the one from our hometown, and when I noticed the scarf you were wearing. It was the same scarf I had given you for your tenth birthday."

Irene's eyes widened as she remembered the scarf, a gift she had treasured as a child. She had kept it tucked away in her closet for years, never realizing its significance. Guilt washed over her as she realized how oblivious she had been to the clues Seulgi had left for her.

"I can't believe I didn't recognize you," Irene said, her voice filled with regret.

Seulgi reached across the table, taking Irene's hand in her own. "Joohyun, don't blame yourself. It's been a long time, and we've both changed. Besides, I didn't want to reveal my identity to you right away. I wanted to gain your trust as the present Seulgi, not just someone from your past."

Irene nodded, her heart heavy with the weight of missed opportunities. "I understand, Seulgi. I just wish I had realized sooner."

Seulgi squeezed Irene's hand reassuringly. "It's okay, Joohyun. What matters now is that we have the chance to reconnect and make new memories together."

Irene smiled gratefully, feeling a deep sense of warmth and comfort in Seulgi's presence. "You're right, Seulgi. I'm grateful for this second chance, and I promise I won't take it for granted."

Seulgi's eyes sparkled with affection as she reminisced, "You know, Joohyun, back in our training days, we used to rely on each other for moral support. We were each other's rock, pushing each other to be better. Those were some of the most memorable times of my life."

Irene's gaze softened as she remembered their shared journey in the world of K-pop. "I remember, Seulgi. We faced so many challenges together, and we were always there for each other. I missed having you by my side."

Seulgi smiled, her thumb gently caressing Irene's hand. "I missed you too, Joohyun. But now, we have the chance to create new memories together, to support each other once again."

As they sat there, hands intertwined and hearts rekindling the bond of their shared past, Irene felt a profound sense of gratitude. It was a reminder that sometimes, life had a way of bringing people back together, even after years of separation.

The room was bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight, casting a gentle and romantic atmosphere around Irene and Seulgi. They had spent hours talking, revealing their deepest emotions and hidden secrets. The weight of their shared history had brought them closer, and yet there was still so much more to explore. Seulgi, feeling tired and weak after the emotional rollercoaster of the day, turned to Irene with a request.

"Irene," Seulgi began, her voice soft and vulnerable, "I'm feeling exhausted, and I don't want to be alone tonight. Can you stay with me in bed?"

Irene's cheeks flushed a deep shade of crimson at the suggestion. Her mind raced with thoughts and emotions, and the idea of sharing a bed with Seulgi sent her heart into a frenzy. She stammered, "I-I, uh, Seulgi, are you sure?"

Seulgi, who saw the flustered look on Irene's face, couldn't help but smile. She gently tugged Irene towards the bed and pulled her into a warm embrace from behind. She whispered softly into Irene's ear, "Joohyun, don't think anything dirty. I just want to cuddle with you."

Irene's heart skipped a beat at Seulgi's words, and a rush of warmth spread through her. She felt Seulgi's lips press against her forehead in a sweet and affectionate kiss. As Seulgi settled into the bed, she closed her eyes and drifted into the world of dreams, leaving Irene in a daze.

Irene couldn't believe what had just happened. Her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, and she released a long breath that she had been holding back since Seulgi's kiss. She turned to face the sleeping Seulgi, who looked so peaceful and serene under the soft moonlight.

As Irene stared at Seulgi's sleeping form, a sense of calm washed over her. She realized that, despite the unexpected turn of events, she felt content and at ease in Seulgi's presence. The moonlight that filtered into the room illuminated their surroundings, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere.

Irene turned onto her side and inched closer to Seulgi, wrapping her arms around her gently. She marveled at how perfectly they fit together, like two puzzle pieces finding their rightful place. Irene watched Seulgi's peaceful expression and the rise and fall of her chest as she breathed.

In that moment, as they lay together in the quiet of the night, Irene made a silent vow in her heart. She promised herself that she would do whatever it took to win back Seulgi's trust and to make this love story last forever. She thanked whatever higher power had brought Seulgi back into her life and allowed her the opportunity to show her affection and care.

Under the watchful gaze of the moon, Irene closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of Seulgi's presence. She knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but she was determined to navigate it with love and sincerity.

And as they lay there, entwined in each other's arms, bathed in the soft moonlight, they both drifted into a peaceful and hopeful slumber, their hearts silently speaking the language of love.

"In the quiet of the night, love speaks its most beautiful language, in whispers and embraces, under the gentle gaze of the moon."