The World Is Cruel to Us 💎 yungi [▶]

11

"Forgive me, Mingi, you ended up like this because of me," Yuna said, her head bowed deeply with regret.

There was something warming in Mingi's feelings as he looked at Yuna’s swollen eyes from crying, or perhaps it was just fear. Mingi smiled, trying not to focus too much on how Yuna looked beautiful in her pastel blue nightgown that clung comfortably to her body. Although, yeah, of course, Mingi couldn’t help but think about it a bit.

"But if I weren’t with you, I can’t imagine what would have happened to you tonight. It would have been much worse. And afterwards, I would never be able to forgive myself." He said weakly, with a slight wince from the pain of bruises and the medication seeping through his skin. At least Yuna’s concern made him feel a bit better, as it meant she cared for him.

Yuna made warm banana milk for him and helped him drink it. She didn’t know what Mingi liked or what he usually ate at night because she had never asked. She had never felt the need for such information before. And even if she asked now, only her favorite banana milk was available at home.

The supply of tea and chocolate was out; she and her mother had forgotten to check the cabinet. She planned to ask her father to take her to the market to buy some later. You know, since the incident where a man groped Yuna’s breasts in the crowded market during the day, the girl had become more paranoid than usual. And even if she didn’t feel scared, her father would never allow her to go to the market alone again.

A daughter is the most valuable treasure to a father, who is like a hero to his daughter and will always be ready to protect his gem.

Yuna helped Mingi lie down, tucking him in up to his neck. She tried to make him as comfortable as possible. It was quite cold tonight, and the room heater wasn’t very effective. It might be a bit broken and not getting much attention since this was just a guest room, and there weren’t many guests who liked to stay here.

Yuna told Mingi to call her if he needed anything. Mingi gave a warm smile and nodded, knowing well enough not to trouble this kind family who had helped him, treated him, and cared for him in the best way.

So once again, he didn’t plan to disturb Yuna’s sleep since it was very late and everyone was exhausted. Especially since they both had to go to school in the morning. For Mingi, he might come in late with a valid excuse—he had to go home first to change into clean and decent clothes. Besides, the teachers knew Mingi as a good student. How could he be bruised from a fight? And Yuna could be a witness if the teachers didn’t believe him.

Oh, perhaps Mingi’s condition could also serve as evidence for Yuna on why late-night classes should be abolished. If not, the school would have to be willing to build dormitories for one night so that all students wouldn’t have to deal with late-night returns.

“Good night,” Yuna said quietly and uncertainly, feeling very awkward. She had never stayed up with Mingi until bedtime before. This was her first time, so she was gaining experience. It was a pity it had to be this way.

Mingi smiled widely. “Good night,” he wanted to continue saying, “dream of me,” but he thought, who was he kidding? If Yuna found that cringeworthy, it could be dangerous for his well-being.

Turning off the light switch, Yuna closed the door. That was the last image of Yuna Mingi would see for the day—the last person he would meet before closing his eyes. And for the first time. Before fully drifting off, Mingi took a moment to look out the window he had asked not to have the curtains drawn. He enjoyed looking at the moonlight that continued to illuminate him in the darkness. The full moon was round and white, like Yuna’s beautiful face.

Mingi didn’t mean to justify or normalize the terrible events that had happened to him a few hours ago. But he was grateful because without that incident, he wouldn’t have experienced the comfort he had just received. This is such a blessing in disguise. The old saying is true; there is always a silver lining behind every event.

Yuna’s family was so kind. Her father saved him from the drunken man’s blows. Her mother helped treat his wounds. Her beautiful daughter helped care for him, preparing the guest room that was initially messy, getting Mingi’s night clothes—fortunately, Yuna’s cousin’s clothes were left here when they stayed over, so there was no confusion about whose nightwear to borrow. The only man in this house was Yuna’s father, but his clothes would be too big. It was unlikely that Mingi would wear a girl’s clothing, even if it was the right size. She made and fed him warm banana milk, tucked him in, and wished him good night.

Mingi was sure he would have sweet dreams tonight.