Whispers of the heart

CHAPTER 15 : MOONLIGHT REVELATIONS

In the days that followed, Hyunjin showered me with kindness, his efforts to win me over unwavering. He brought me coffee every morning, left sweet notes in my locker, and even walked me to my classes despite his busy schedule. His relentless pursuit melted my heart, and I couldn't help but adore him even more.

However, tensions with his mother escalated, her disapproval of our relationship only growing stronger. But Hyunjin remained resolute, refusing to let her dictate his happiness. When she threatened to sabotage my scholarship, Hyunjin stood firm, ready to sever ties with her if necessary.

After a heated argument with his mother, Hyunjin came to my house in the middle of the night. His voice over the phone was urgent, filled with a hint of vulnerability that tugged at my heartstrings. When I stepped outside, there he was, waiting for me, a silhouette against the soft glow of the streetlights. Despite the late hour, I couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement in my chest. In my casual attire of shorts, crocs, and a crop top, I felt a pang of self-consciousness, but Hyunjin's warm smile instantly put me at ease.

"Let's go for a walk," he said softly, his eyes reflecting the moonlight. Without hesitation, I agreed, knowing that whatever troubled him, we would face it together. As we strolled through the quiet streets, the world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of us wrapped in the magic of the night. The colorful lights and falling cherry blossom petals created a dreamlike atmosphere, and I found myself lost in the beauty of the moment.

When we reached a small bridge, we paused, gazing at the moon's reflection dancing on the water. A tree adorned with delicate flowers caught my eye, and I couldn't resist reaching out to touch them. As I leaned over the edge, Hyunjin's voice was filled with concern.

"Be careful. Don't get too close to the edge," he cautioned.

"Relax, I'm just grabbing a flower," I replied, my hand reaching out.

Seeing I wasn't listening, he wrapped his arms around my waist, pulling me back slightly. "I can't let you fall," he said softly, his breath warm against my ear. His embrace made my heart race, a mix of safety and excitement. With his encouragement, I plucked a flower, its petals soft against my fingertips. Turning to him, I held it out, a silent offering of love and affection. Then, in a moment that took my breath away, he leaned in and kissed me, his lips warm and tender against mine.

As we parted, my heart was aflutter with emotion. "What was that for?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. His response was simple but heartfelt, his words sending warmth spreading through my chest. "보고싶다 (I missed you)," he confessed, his eyes filled with sincerity and longing. Unable to contain my joy, I playfully punched his shoulder, a mix of laughter and tears in my eyes.

Together, we made our way back to my apartment, where Hyunjin watched me enter before bidding me farewell. As I closed the door behind me, I couldn't help but smile, realizing that I had experienced the joys of having a boyfriend for the first time.

The next morning, Jessie couldn't resist teasing me about wearing Hyunjin's jacket, which I had completely forgotten about. She playfully insinuated that I must have gone out with him. Chuckling, she continued her banter all the way to campus. "So, did you have a secret rendezvous with Hyunjin yesterday?"

"No way, Jessie. You know I would tell you if I did."

While going through my mail, I discovered an invitation to Mr. Kim's birthday party. Despite my desire to attend, I hesitated at the thought of encountering Seoyeon and Mrs. Kim. Just then, Hyunjin called and informed me that his father expected me to be there, so I felt an obligation to attend as I was part of the company staff, even just as a part-timer.

The night of the party, I attended with Minho and Jessie. It was a lavish affair, filled with influential figures, businessmen, sports personalities, and celebrities. This wasn't just any party; it was hosted by a millionaire. Unable to spot Hyunjin, I assumed he was occupied elsewhere.