Painted Love | Hwang Hyunjin

6

A week had passed since Hyunjin came by so unexpectedly and since then I couldn't stop thinking about him. I was painting, but every brushstroke and every colour I brought onto the canvas reminded me of him and his beautiful face. How he laughed, how he smiled or the warm feeling he gave me with his arms around me. I really tried to focus on something different, but his face kept appearing in my head.

We texted every day and one day, as I was working on a big canvas for a client, my phone buzzed with a text. I pulled it out and started smiling as soon as I saw Hyunjin's name on the screen.

Hyunjin
Hey Mui, are you free today? Thought we could hang out, maybe go to the park.

I smiled and quickly replied.

Mui
I'd love that. I could use a break from painting. What time?

Hyunjin
How about 3 PM? I can pick you up.

Mui
Sounds perfect. See you then!

I set my phone down and took a deep breath, trying to calm the fluttering in my chest. I needed to finish the portrait before he arrived. I focused intently, determined to make every detail perfect. By the time I was done, it was almost 2 PM, and I rushed home to get ready.

I chose a simple sundress and sandals, something comfortable yet presentable. As I was putting on a light layer of makeup, I heard my doorbell ringing. My heart skipped a beat, and I quickly finished up before opening the door.

Hyunjin stood there, looking effortlessly handsome in a casual oversized white shirt and baggy jeans, his black hair shining in the light. He smiled brightly when he saw me.

"Hey," he said, his eyes twinkling.

"Hey," I replied, feeling a bit breathless.

"Ready to go?" he asked.

"Yeah, let me just grab my bag," I said, quickly grabbing my things.

We walked to the park together, chatting about our week and laughing about random things. The park was beautiful, with blooming flowers and shady trees, and a gentle breeze that made the day perfect.

We found a spot under a large oak tree and sat down on the grass. Hyunjin had brought a small picnic basket, and he pulled out some snacks and drinks.

"You came prepared," I said, impressed.

He grinned. "I thought it would be nice to just relax and enjoy the day."

As we munched on sandwiches and sipped lemonade, we talked about our favorite artists, our dreams, and the little things that made us happy. It felt so natural, like we'd known each other for years.

After a while, Hyunjin looked at me with a shy expression. "Mui, I've been thinking a lot about you," he said, his voice was soft.

I felt a lump in my throat, and I nodded for him to continue, because I surely couldn't get a word out right now.

"I really like you," he continued softly. "I know we've only just started hanging out, but I feel this connection with you. I want to see where it goes."

My heart raced, and I felt a warmth spread through me. "I feel the same way, Hyunjin. I've never felt this way about anyone before." I just said, hoping to not make a complete fool out of me.

He smiled, reaching out to take my hand. "Then let's take our time and enjoy this. No rush, just... us."

I squeezed his hand, feeling a sense of peace. "I'd like that."

We spent the rest of the afternoon lying on the grass. My head on his chest, talking and laughing. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the park, Hyunjin turned my head towards me gently. I looked at him in awe, trying to get in every single detail of his face. I didn't want to forget it in case he had to leave me someday.

"Let's take a walk," he suggested. "I would love that", I whispered and slowly stood up. He did not hesitate and took my hand in his, intertwining our fingers. I loved how my hand just fitted in his perfectly.

We wandered through the park, the setting sun casting long shadows and painting the sky with hues of pink and orange. Hyunjin suddenly stopped and pointed to a small clearing ahead.

"Look, fireflies," he said, his voice filled with wonder.

I watched as tiny lights danced around us, creating a magical atmosphere. Hyunjin let go of my hand, reached out and caught one gently in his hands, then opened them to let me see the glowing little thing.

"It's beautiful," I whispered, captivated by the delicate light.

"Just like you," he said softly, his eyes reflecting the fireflies' glow as I looked up towards him.

I felt my cheeks heat up, but I couldn't look away from his gaze. We stood there, surrounded by the soft glow of the fireflies, and I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness. I thought a little about just smashing my lips on his, but I chickened out and he already turned his head away to look at the lights around us again.

As we walked back to my place, Hyunjin held my hand again, and we talked about our plans for the next few days. When we reached my door, he hesitated for a moment.

"Can I see you again tomorrow?" he asked, his voice hopeful.

I smiled, feeling my heart swell with affection. "I'd love that."

He leaned in and again gave me a gentle kiss on the cheek. "Goodnight, Mui."

"Goodnight, Hyunjin," I replied, going through the door. He waited until I was inside and the door was closed, then he slowly walked away.