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APPRECIATION
Sunday, March 21st 1980
The next morning, Lisa arose early for her morning shift, already dressed in her dark blue blouse and black pants, her long brown hair pulled back into a ponytail with a few loose strands framing her face.
She opened her drawer, and pick up the Julia's letter and put inside her bag.
She emerged from her bedroom, white coat in hand and bag slung over her shoulder, and glanced into the living room to find Taehyun still sound asleep on the couch.
In the kitchen, Mrs. Lee was already bustling about, preparing breakfast. "Should I wake him up?" she asked, noticing Lisa's presence.
Lisa shook her head. "It's fine," she replied, making her way to the counter to start her own breakfast.
As Lisa enjoyed her buttered toast and cereal, a groan emanated from the couch, signaling Taehyun's awakening.
She didn't turn around, choosing to focus on her meal instead.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Lee had prepared a pot of soup, specifically designed to ease a hangover.
Taehyun slowly became aware of his surroundings, noting the change in his attire.
He realized he wasn't wearing his own scrubs, but the jacket that belonged to Lisa.
Glancing over, he saw her seated at the counter, her back turned to him as she ate her breakfast.
Next to him, his own clothing hung neatly on a chair, freshly ironed.
It was a gesture he didn't expect, but one that he appreciated nonetheless.
Despite his discomfort, Taehyun attempted to stand, only to be overcome by a wave of dizziness.
He sank back onto the couch, resigned to waiting until the room stopped spinning before attempting to move again.
Once Lisa had finished her breakfast, Mrs. Lee handed her the tray with Taehyun's soup. "Lisa, can you give this to him?" she asked.
Lisa nodded. "Sure," she replied, taking the tray and making her way over to Taehyun, who was sitting on the couch with his head in his hands.
Setting the tray down on the coffee table in front of him, Lisa instructed, "You should have your breakfast. After that, you can clean up yourself. The bathroom is on the left side."
Taehyun looked up at her with tired eyes, confusion evident in his expression. "How did I end up here?" he asked in his low, husky voice.
Lisa sighed, her tone tinged with exasperation. "Namjoon dropped you off here last night. You were drunk. Please eat your breakfast."
"He should have dropped me off at the hospital. My car was still there," Taehyun muttered, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice.
Lisa crossed her arms, a hint of concern in her voice. "You were in no state to drive, Taehyun. You were barely conscious when Namjoon brought you here," she pointed out gently. "It's a good thing he didn't leave you alone at the hospital."
Taehyun rubbed his temples, the memories of last night slowly came back to him.
"Do you mind if I tag along to the hospital with you?" he asked, prompting Lisa to look at him. "I need to get my car, then I'll head home," he explained.
Lisa nodded. "Yeah, sure. You should eat your breakfast now while waiting for the taxi to arrive," she suggested before leaving him to eat in peace.
Later, Lisa and Taehyun found themselves seated in the back of a taxi.
"Thanks for the breakfast," Taehyun said, breaking the silence.
Lisa nodded, offering a small smile. "Mrs. Lee prepared it for you," she replied, and Taehyun nodded in acknowledgment.
They remained silent throughout the journey.
Lisa gazed out the window, her eyes drawn to the passing scenery.
As they passed the Lorelei Station, she couldn't help but notice the ongoing construction, a familiar sight along her daily commute.
A nostalgia washed over her, reminding her of the convenience of riding the train.
No more waiting for taxis, no more uncertainty about arrival times.
Just a smooth ride to her destination.
Taehyun, noticing her contemplative gaze, followed her line of sight before turning to her with a curious expression.
Despite her quiet demeanor, her thoughts seemed to be in a whirlwind of their own.
As they arrived at the hospital, Lisa and Taehyun stepped out of the taxi and stood outside the entrance.
"Are you not working today?" Lisa inquired, breaking the silence.
Taehyun shook his head. "No, I'm heading back to my parents' house."
Lisa nodded in understanding. "I'm going inside," she stated, preparing to enter the building.
"Lisa," Taehyun called out before she could leave. She turned to face him. "My parents are inviting you and your parents for dinner next week."
Lisa sighed inwardly, not particularly fond of family dinners with their inevitable discussions of marriage and tradition.
"Okay," she replied simply, offering a nod before turning and heading into the hospital, leaving Taehyun behind.
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