Yesterday Once More

Unexpected meet ups

Hyunjung sat alone in her backyard, the only light coming from the single candle atop her birthday cake and another 3 candles on her pencil case sitting beside her. As she made a wish and blew out the candle, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of loneliness. She just wish she could celebrate her birthday with someone so she won't be lonely.

Then, out of nowhere, a girl her age appeared, curious about what she was doing. Hyunjung explained that it was her birthday, and she was celebrating alone.

The girl's eyes lit up with excitement, and she asked if she could join in. Hyunjung hesitated for a moment, but something about the girl's sincerity and warmth made her smile and nod in agreement. Together, they shared the cake, talked, and laughed under the starry sky.

As they sat together in the backyard, sharing Hyunjung's birthday cake.

"I'm Jiyeon," the girl said with a warm smile, extending her hand.

"Hyunjung," replied Hyunjung, returning the smile.

From that moment on, they became inseparable friends, sharing everything from secrets to dreams. Hyunjung realized that sometimes, the best gifts come unexpectedly, like the friendship she found on her solitary birthday.

One sunny afternoon, Jiyeon eagerly awaited her best friend Hyunjung's arrival. When Hyunjung came over, Jiyeon led her to her room and handed her a special stuffed toy—a unique bunny with patchwork fur and a tiny heart sewn onto its chest.

"This is Bunny Heart," Jiyeon said, her eyes shining. "My mom made it for me, and I want you to have it."

Hyunjung's eyes widened. "Are you sure?"

Jiyeon nodded. "Yes. You're my best friend."

Hyunjung hugged Bunny Heart tightly. "Thank you, Jiyeon. I'll take good care of it."

......

Hyunjung giggled as she teased Jiyeon about her bunny-like appearance paired with a fierce doberman attitude. "You're like a bunny with a bark," she joked, poking fun at her friend.

Jiyeon rolled her eyes but couldn't help but laugh along. "Hey, at least I've got personality!" she retorted, playfully nudging Hyunjung.

Their banter continued long into the night, filled with laughter and inside jokes that only they shared. As they sat side by side, watching the stars twinkle above, 6 years old Hyunjung knew that she had found a friend for life in Jiyeon.

20 Years later

As Hyunjung mingled at the wedding reception, a woman approached her with a worried expression. "Excuse me, are you good with cakes?" she asked, gesturing towards a table where a cake lay in ruins, courtesy of an adventurous child. "Umm I'm actually having a problem, and I just need some assistance, if you don't mind"

Hyunjung nodded, offering a sympathetic smile. "Well....umm I'm actually free right now might give it a shot"

They chat as they worked, the conversation flowing effortlessly between them. By the time they finished fixing the cake, Hyunjung felt like she had known the woman for years.

"Thanks for your help," the woman said, giving Hyunjung a grateful smile. "I'm Jiyeon, by the way."

As the woman introduced herself as Jiyeon, Hyunjung's heart skipped a beat. Memories of her childhood friend flooded back, and she couldn't help but wonder if this Jiyeon was somehow connected to her past.

Hyunjung grinned, extending her hand. "Hyunjung. And don't mention it. It was actually kind of fun."

"Jiyeon?" Hyunjung repeated, a hint of disbelief in her voice.