Rainy Days - Haerin x Danielle

13, Situationship

Danielle's POV:

Some people choose to express affection through actions, while others prefer verbal expressions. However, when the relationship is unconfirmed, all actions eventually lose meaning when faced with suspicions. Lately, the question of defining our relationship has been surfacing more frequently. Perhaps due to my impatience, I made the mistake of diving into the relationship before clarifying its nature.

Haerin visited my house less frequently. I yearn to spend more time with her and miss her dearly.

To make matters worse, Haerin seldom initiates texts or calls. Although she responds whenever I reach out, we rarely find time to discuss the questions in my mind. Perhaps it's my lack of courage or the fact that our encounters occur late at night, both of us exhausted from work. Watching Haerin grow busier and more fatigued pains me deeply.

Despite appearances, our relationship lacks concrete evidence. I desire Haerin's confirmation, but how to approach it remains unclear.

Having recently watched "Nevertheless," recommended by Hanni, I found that the movie intensified my longing for Haerin. Particularly the protagonist's relationship mirrored ours - involving making love, cuddling, and care but lacking validation.

As I contemplated, I suddenly realized my nose was congested, forcing me to breathe through my mouth. The arrival of winter signaled the annual onset of the flu, which I usually catch around this time. Wrapped in a blanket, I lazily sought comfort in something sweet.

After half an hour of unsuccessful attempts to find a satisfying movie, I messaged Hanni for suggestions. When she recommended "20th Century Girl," I realized I wasn't in the mood for a movie; I simply wanted to meet Kang Haerin. Dialing her number, I mustered the courage to call:

"Do you remember me, Danielle?" Haerin's voice teased, making me one more time wonder why she never initiated texts.

Noting my silence, Haerin inquired, "I just finished filming for my final project. It's done, so I will come over to your house now"

"Ok, take care on your way."

Regardless of the mixed signals, Haerin's impending visit perfectly dispelled my negative thoughts. She acted as an anesthetic, rendering my mind incapable of rational thought upon seeing her.

After a few seconds of silence, as if waiting to find some signs, Haerin spoke. She always paid attention to small details, exhibiting thorough care - not just for me but possibly for others as well.

.

.

.

Closing my eyes, I suddenly felt a cool sensation on my forehead. Kang Haerin had arrived, providing both physical and mental comfort. She placed her hand on my forehead.

"You are having the flu, Danielle. Maybe because of the weather, winter has just come" In the kitchen, she rolled up her sleeves, chopping ingredients for some kind of soup, maybe shrimp.

"I know you haven't had dinner yet, so let's finish your soup and take your medicine."

While waiting for the soup, she removed her apron and approached my bed. Looking me in the eye, she asked softly:

"Can I check your temperature one more time?"

I nodded slightly, but before I could react, a cool sensation landed on my lips instead of my forehead. I hastily pushed Haerin away, fearing she might catch the flu.

"Haerin, how can you check my temperature with your lips?"

"People don't usually, but it's possible," Haerin explained, as if proving a point. "I see you're still warm, not feverish yet, but you need careful monitoring."