Our Story Was BitterSweet

CHAPTER 3

Friends Again

Chapter 3

Ji-Eun was fixing her hair during P.E. class when she observed Hee-Jin sitting close with a melancholy look, murmuring to herself while fumbling to tie her shoes. Ji-Eun approached her with a pleasant grin, intrigued and worried. Hee-Jin let out an unintentional scream as Ji-Eun patted her shoulder, hurriedly concealing her lips in embarrassment. 

"I'm sorry, Ji-Eun; it's just... I'm not in the best of moods right now," Hee-Jin said as she continued to straighten her shoes.

Ji-Eun's grin remained kind and understanding. She extended her hand to Hee-Jin, assisting her in standing. "It's alright, Hee-Jin. We all have our off days. If there's anything you want to talk about, I'm here to listen."

The P.E. teacher urged everyone to team up while the session progressed with various tasks. Hee-Jin instantly grabbed Ji-Eun's hand and drew her to their meeting site. They started doing crunches together, and the physical exertion provided a time for them to talk.

Ji-Eun spoke out, anxious for Hee-Jin's safety. 

"You seem to be overworking yourself lately. It's important to find time to relax and take care of yourself."

Hee-Jin, on the other hand, was hesitant to take Ji-Eun's advice, dismissing it with a wave of her hand. But as they performed the workout, Hee-Jin groaned in pain and clutched her knees. Her knees were suffering, and she needed quick treatment. 

The physical education instructor soon interfered, directing Ji-Eun to accompany Hee-Jin to the clinic. Ji-Eun comforted the instructor, stating, "Yes, ma'am. I'll take care of her."Ji-Eun gazed at Hee-Jin with real concern as she sat in misery, pouting and apologizing for the inconvenience. 

"What's the matter, Hee-Jin? You can tell me. We're friends, remember?"

Hee-Jin paused for a minute, her defenses gradually relaxing. "I... I've been dealing with some personal issues lately," she said, her voice soft. "It's been overwhelming, and I guess I've been taking it out on others unintentionally."

Ji-Eun's eyes softened, her empathy visible. 

"You don't have to face everything alone, Hee-Jin. We're friends for a reason. If there's anything I can do to support you, please let me know. Sometimes, sharing our burdens lightens the load."

Hee-Jin glanced at Ji-Eun, a sense of relief and thankfulness sweeping over her. She understood she didn't have to face her problems alone, and that Ji-Eun was there to lend a sympathetic ear and a helpful hand.

 Tears welled up in Hee-Jin's eyes as she opened up to Ji-Eun about the underlying root of her pain. She confessed that her parents were divorcing, and the approaching visit from her mother and brother triggered a range of emotions she found difficult to endure.

"Hee-Jin, I'm so sorry to hear about what you're going through," Ji-Eun murmured, her voice softly concerned. "It's completely understandable that this situation is hurting you deeply. Family changes can be incredibly challenging." 

Hee-Jin smiled and nodded.

 "It's just... I always wished my big brother could stay with me. But he's being forced to live with our mother in the States. And now, I find out that my mother has remarried someone. It feels like everything is changing, and I miss those days when we were a complete family."

Ji-Eun reached out and softly grasped Hee-Jin's hand, comforting and supporting her. "I can only imagine how much pain you must be feeling, Hee-Jin. It's natural to long for the stability and togetherness of your family. Remember, though, that your feelings are valid, and it's okay to grieve the loss of what was."

"Ji-Eun, have you ever experienced a similar situation with your own family?" Hee-Jin asked while wiping her nose. 

Ji-Eun paused for a moment, contemplating how to respond. She took a deep breath and looked into Hee-Jin's eyes with honesty."I haven't gone through the same situation as you, Hee-Jin," Ji-Eun began, her voice gentle and sincere. "But like many families, mine has had its challenges and struggles. We've faced moments of tension, misunderstandings, and even periods of distance. It hasn't always been easy."She continued, "However, what I've come to realize is that every family is unique, and we all have our journeys and experiences. Each situation carries its weight and complexity. While I may not understand your exact circumstances, I can empathize with the emotions and difficulties that arise when significant changes happen within a family."

Ji-Eun reached out and placed her hand on Hee-Jin's shoulder, offering reassurance. "What I can say with certainty is that having someone to talk to and lean on during challenging times can make a world of difference. And that's why I'm here for you, Hee-Jin. I may not have all the answers, but I promise to support you as best as I can."

Hee-Jin nodded, appreciating Ji-Eun's openness and understanding. She felt a sense of comfort knowing that even if their experiences weren't identical, Ji-Eun could still relate to her on an emotional level.

"Thank you, Ji-Eun," Hee-Jin whispered, her voice filled with gratitude. "I'm grateful to have you as a friend. Your presence and support mean more to me than you can imagine."

While returning to the classroom, Hee-Jin and Ji-Eun noticed SUng-CHul approaching Hee-Jin with a troubled face. He hugged Hee-JIn, causing his cheek to flush red. "When I heard your knees were hurting, I immediately took off my gear and went looking for you!" Hee-Jin said, embarrassed.

"You didn't have to go through all that trouble, Sung-Chul," Hee-Jin remarked, a smile pulling at her lips. "But I appreciate your care and friendship."Sung-Chul smiled, his eyes twinkling. "Of course, I had to make sure you were okay. You're my best friend, Hee-Jin. I'll always be there for you."Hee-Jin's heart skipped a beat as she felt a pang of desire for something greater, but she quickly dismissed such thoughts. She cherished Sung-Chul's friendship and didn't want to compromise it.

Ji-Eun spotted Tae-Yeon correcting his glasses and studying their exchanges as they approached their classroom. She met his eyes, and a warm grin spread across her face. "I'm glad everything's okay too, Tae-Yeon. Thanks for your concern."Tae-Yeon nodded, his smile indicating relief. "Of course, Hee-Jin. Friends look out for each other."Hee-Jin clasped Ji-Eun and Tae-Yeon's shoulders, bringing them closer, feeling a burst of gladness and thankfulness. "Hey, how about we celebrate with a feast? Sung-Chul's Chicken Restaurant is just around the corner."