Whispers of the heart

Chapter 13: THE TRUTH UNTOLD

Surrounded by journalists as we exited the hospital, the bodyguards formed a protective barrier, ensuring they didn't get too close. Cameras flashed incessantly, capturing every moment, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of dread knowing I'd be in the papers the following day. My scholarship hung in the balance, but Mr. Kim reassured me, his voice steady with confidence. "Don't worry, Wendy. We'll handle this. You'll be okay."

As days turned into weeks and Hyunjin remained unconscious, tension simmered. Mrs. Kim's resentment towards me was palpable, and I felt like a pariah in their presence. Then, one day at the hospital, I encountered Seoyeon. Her anger erupted like a volcano, blaming me for everything. The sting of her slap lingered as Minho intervened, his voice cutting through the tension. "Fighting won't help Hyunjin," he stated firmly, his eyes pleading for calm.

Weeks passed, and hope dwindled until one day, we received the news we'd been praying for—Hyunjin had woken up. Rushing to the hospital, I stood by the door, watching him interact with his parents. The joy in my heart was overwhelming as he inquired about me. Despite Mrs. Kim's disapproval, the doctor advised against upsetting him, so they called me into the room.

Unable to contain my emotions, tears welled in my eyes as Hyunjin reached for my hand, his touch comforting. "It's okay, Wendy. I'm awake now. Everything will be okay," he reassured me, his words a beacon of hope in the darkness.

One day I went to visit Hyunjin to bring him home cooked food and fresh clothes. As I entered Hyunjin's hospital room, I found him engaged in a silly argument with his nurse. She was attempting to help him with his shirt, but he kept refusing her assistance. With a smile on my face, I intervened, telling him to stop being so stubborn. The nurse agreed to let me help, and as I began buttoning his shirt, I couldn't help but notice the bandages on his abdomen, a reminder of the terrifying ordeal he had endured. Tentatively, I reached out to touch him, but pulled back hesitantly. Sensing my hesitation, Hyunjin took my hand and placed it on his chest, drawing me closer to him.

"I'm happy you're here," he whispered softly, his eyes filled with warmth and gratitude. "Promise me you won't leave again."

I couldn't bring myself to respond, but I cautioned him against risking his life for me in the future. His response was unwavering.

"I'd do it a thousand times over if I had to," he declared, his voice filled with conviction. He then leaned forward and kissed me. A kiss that sent electricity through my whole body.

Unbeknownst to us, Mrs. Kim had witnessed our intimate moment. Later, she summoned me to her study, her expression stern and unforgiving. She wasted no time in delivering her ultimatum.

"Wendy, now that Hyunjin has recovered, it's time for you to leave," she stated firmly, leaving no room for argument.

Heart sinking, I tried to plead my case, but Mrs. Kim's resolve remained unyielding. Tears welled up in my eyes as I realized the gravity of the situation.

"But Mrs. Kim, I... I care about Hyunjin deeply," I pleaded, desperation creeping into my voice.

Her response was cold and calculated. "It's in Hyunjin's best interest that you leave. Do you understand. You might hate me for this but I'm doing it for my child. I want you to stay as far away from Hyunjin as possible".

" But how can you ask that if me. Hyunjin is..."I was cut off before I could finish my sentence.
"I already told you and I won't repeat it again. Cut all ties with him. If you don't the price to pay will be you losing your scholarship."

With a heavy heart and tears streaming down my face, I nodded silently, knowing that Mrs. Kim's decision was final. As I left her study, the weight of her words hung heavy on my shoulders, filling me with a profound sense of loss and despair.