Whispers of the heart

Chapter 5 : Unveiling Truths and Unexpected Confessions

Chapter 5: Revelations and Resolutions

As the days passed, Hyunjin and I delved deeper into our project, spending countless hours at the Seirin basketball club, observing training sessions and games. It became our second home, a place where we could immerse ourselves in our shared passion for the sport. . When we first started working with the Seirin basketball team, the coach welcomed us with open arms, assuring us that as long as we were there, we were considered part of the team. It was a heartwarming introduction, setting the tone for our collaboration.

As we met the team, I couldn't help but notice the camaraderie among the players. Christopher Chan, the team captain, exuded warmth and leadership, setting the tone for the rest of the team. His vice captain, Suengmim, complemented him perfectly with his calm demeanor and strong work ethic.

Among the other players, there were distinct personalities that added color to the team dynamic. Mingyu, with his infectious enthusiasm; Tan, the jokester of the group; and Seojun, the silent but determined player who always gave his all on the court. Then there was Go Young, the playful challenger, whose competitive spirit added an extra spark to the team.

During one practice session, Go Young teasingly challenged Hyunjin to a one-on-one match, expecting an easy victory. However, everyone was surprised by just how talented Hyunjin turned out to be. His skills on the court were undeniable, earning him respect from both his teammates and his opponents.

As our collaboration with the team progressed, I found myself taking on a new role as an assistant coach. The team's coach, Coach Lee, recognized my passion for sports and my dream of becoming an athletic trainer. Impressed by my strategic insights and player analysis, he entrusted me with responsibilities beyond what I had imagined, allowing me to contribute to the team in a meaningful way. It was a rewarding experience that further strengthened my bond with the team and fueled my determination to pursue my dreams in the world of sports.

During our visits, I formed an unexpected friendship with Han Seojun, one of the club's star players. Despite the age gap between us, Seojun proved to be a warmhearted and easygoing person, quickly becoming someone I could rely on for support and companionship.

However, as our friendship blossomed, I couldn't help but notice the subtle shifts in Hyunjin's demeanor. His jaw would tighten, and a flicker of jealousy would flash in his eyes whenever Seojun was around. I tried to reassure him that there was nothing more than friendship between Seojun and me, but his unease persisted.

Hyunjin's discomfort became more evident whenever Seojun exhibited gestures of affection towards me—whether it was a friendly touch, a shared laugh, or treating me to lunch. Despite Hyunjin's protests, I valued Seojun's friendship and saw no harm in it.

One day, during a much-needed break, we were sitting in a cafe shop chatting about the latest release of the Attack on Titan series when we're were  interrupted by the sudden arrival of a striking woman in her mid-40s. Her graceful demeanor and elegant presence immediately drew my attention.  She gave Hyunjin and hug and a kiss on the forehead. I couldn't help by wonder who she is.
"Mom what are you doing here" Hyunjin asked her.
Ohh so this was his mother , the famous actress Kim Yeji.  From their conversation I could tell that they had somewhat of a complicated relationship.
After giving Hyunjin an earful for neglecting to spend time with her. She handed him an invitation to her upcoming birthday party, insisting that he attends it  with Seoyeon as his girlfriend. This somehow hurts my feelings. However, Hyunjin surprised both me and his mother by declaring that he would only attend the party with his real girlfriend.
"I'm sorry mother , I will be attending the party's but not with Seoyeon but with Wendy. I haven't officially introduced you to her but now is the right time to do so . Mom meet my girlfriend Wendy".
I am at a loss of words as much as Mrs Kim  who looks at me for a brief moment with so many questions on her face.
She took  a sit next to Hyunjin and she started speaking to him with her mother language which is Japanese , obviously intending for me not to hear the conversation. She said something about Hyunjin dating a girl with no social status and to top it up a foreigner being ridiculous.
I subconsciously interrupted their conversation not realising I was thinking out loud
""Sumimasen, demo watashi wa minna no hanashi ga kikoeru node shinpai shinaide, soredemo tsudzukete kudasai, watashi wa koko ni inai to omotte kudasai." ( meaning excuse me , but I can hear everything you guys are saying. But don't worry just continue and pretend I'm not here )
Both of them look back  at me , surprised by my proficiency in the language.
" let's not argue over this mother. I'll come to your party I promise but please let's not do this in front of my girlfriend". Eventually his mother just gives up and  bids us farewell as she leaves the cafe with a disappointed and disapproving look on her face. After his mother departed, leaving us in a stunned silence,  I turned to Hyunjin seeking clarity amidst the confusion.
" I didn't know you speak Japan" , he said awkwardly.
"Forget that just explain to me what just happened , how did I suddenly become your girlfriend?, I say to him.
He let out a sigh and began to explain. His explanation shed light on the complexities of his familial relationships and the expectations placed upon him,  with a sad look on his face he told me how his relationship with his mother was broken when she chose her acting career over him. He told me how he grew up without a mother and how much that affected his childhood. I could see the hurt in his eyes.
"My  mother is trying to to be a good mother only now but is a bit too late Wendy . She was never there for me when I needed her the most. To top it all off she is trying to force me into a relationship with Seoyeon even though I have told her a couple of times that we are just friends but to her Seoyeon is the perfect daughter in law she dreams off. Mother has never taken my feelings into consideration and she only does what pleases her the most". Hyunjin explains .
"I know it's too much too ask for but please take the role of my girlfriend at my mother's party". He said
I felt sorry for him . It saddened me that he had go through all that and has been holding in all these emotions for this long. I took Hyunjin's hand and nodded my head, agreeing to pretend to be his girlfriend in front of his parents.
Hyunjin gave  me a weak smile and squeezed my hand showing gratitude