Our Story Was BitterSweet

CHAPTER 1

 Year 2001

Chapter 1

As I hurriedly sought shelter from the rain, my wet sleeves clinging to my arms, a captivating sight caught my attention. Through the misty downpour, I noticed a figure donning a vibrant pink raincoat, gently petting a cat. Curiosity piqued, I approached, and as she turned around, our gazes locked, igniting an inexplicable spark between us.

Ji-Eun inquired innocently as the cat hurried away,

 "Ahh Tae-Yeon, what are you doing here?" 

At the sight of her, I couldn't help but experience a rush of emotions, a mix of nostalgia and the pleasure of rediscovery. 

"I don't have an umbrella," I said, my cheeks flushing with shame at my unkempt look. My hair was soaked, and my clothing stuck to my body, a witness to the conditions.

Ji-Eun got to her feet without hesitation, her gaze fixated on me. 

"Can I escort you to your home?" she said, her voice laced with a fresh tenderness. As she assessed my sodden state, her proximity caused my heart to skip a beat.

"I-If you're okay with it?" I stammered, my voice reflecting the mix of excitement and trepidation that was coursing through me. 

Ji-Eun had something completely unexpected in mind for me.

She tossed her umbrella at mine with a malicious glitter in her eyes, the two colliding in mid-air before collapsing to the ground. She turned and dashed outside the temple in an instant, leaving me befuddled and dealing with unresolved questions. 

 Ji-Eun's farewell wink and smile lingered in my head as I stood there, umbrella in hand. Confusion and excitement combined, prompting me to follow her example. I went out into the storm, my pulse hammering, ready to solve the riddle behind her rash acts.

Ji-Eun stood a few meters away, her pink raincoat glowing against the gray backdrop of the rain-soaked earth. The rains danced about us as I gently approached the gap between us."I thought you needed an escort home," she said, her voice tinted with mischievousness. "But it seems I've thrown you off guard instead."

As I tried to gather myself, a frightened giggle escaped my lips.

 "You definitely surprised me, Ji-Eun. But what's going on? Why did you throw your umbrella at mine and run off like that?"

Her grin broadened, revealing the daring attitude that had always hidden underneath her calm demeanor. She moved in closer, her fingers reaching out to wipe a damp strand of hair away from my face.

 "Because, Tae-Yeon, life is too short to always follow the rules and play it safe. Sometimes, we need to embrace the unexpected and take chances."

Her remarks struck a chord deep within me, inspiring respect for her bravery. I felt a burst of bravery spring up within me, boosting my determination. 

"I understand that, Ji-Eun. But why me? Why did you choose to involve me in your spontaneous act?"

Ji-Eun's face softened, and she drew the last few inches between us, her warmth engulfing me. Her glance met mine, and she spoke with a compassion I'd never seen before.

 "Because, Tae-Yeon, you've always been the one who can make my heart flutter. I wanted to create a memorable moment for us, something that would stand out in our memories forever."