mean it - winrina

nine

Winter and Karina's relationship had found a steadier footing after Winter chose Karina over Minju. The couple spent more time together, rekindling their romance with late-night talks and spontaneous dates.

One sunny afternoon, Karina and Winter decided to have a picnic in the park. They spread a blanket under a large oak tree, enjoying the warm breeze and the sound of laughter from children playing nearby.

As they ate, their conversation drifted to light-hearted topics, but eventually, they touched on more serious matters. Winter mentioned her plans for the future, expressing her desire to travel and explore new opportunities.

"Jimin, I've been thinking about maybe taking a photography course abroad," Winter said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It's something I've always wanted to do."

Karina's expression shifted slightly. "Abroad? For how long?"

"Maybe a few months," Winter replied, sensing Karina's hesitation. "Well, it's just an idea for now."

Karina forced a smile. "That sounds great, Minjeong. But what about us? Long-distance relationships can be really tough."

Winter's excitement faded a little. "I know, but we can make it work, right? We've come so far."

Karina nodded, though her smile didn't reach her eyes. "Yeah, of course. We can talk more about it later."

The rest of the picnic felt slightly strained, the earlier joy dampened by unspoken concerns. Winter tried to brush it off, but it still bothered her.

A few days later, Karina and Winter attended a party at Giselle's apartment. It was a lively gathering with friends, music, and laughter. However, things took a turn when Karina, after a few drinks, made a thoughtless comment that would cut deep.

Winter was chatting with Giselle and Ningning when Karina joined them, slightly tipsy. "Hey, what are you all talking about?" she asked with a playful grin.

"Minjeong was just telling us about her photography plans," Giselle said, smiling.

Karina laughed, but it was a hollow sound. "Oh, you mean her latest escapist fantasy?"

Winter froze, her smile fading instantly. "What? What do you mean by that?"

Karina, not noticing Winter's reaction, continued. "Come on, Minjeong. You always talk about these big plans, but do you ever really follow through?"

The words hit Winter like a slap. She stared at Karina, hurt and disbelief evident in her eyes. "Why would you say that, Jimin?"

Karina blinked, finally realizing the impact of her words. "I didn't mean it like that. Minjeong, I was just... I was worried about us."

"Then why would you even let those words come out of your mouth, if you don't mean it?" Winter's voice trembled with a mix of hurt and anger. "You promised to support me and change for the better, Karina! But why do you just keep doing it again and again?! And now, you're doubting me?"

The room grew quiet as their friends watched the unfolding drama with concerned expressions. Karina reached out, but Winter stepped back, tears brimming in her eyes.

"I need some air," Winter muttered, turning and leaving the apartment.

Giselle and Ningning exchanged worried looks before following Winter. Karina stood there, overwhelmed by a crushing wave of guilt and regret that made her feel even worse.

Winter found herself outside, breathing in the cool night air. She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Minju standing there. "Are you okay, Minjeong?"

Winter shook her head, tears spilling down her cheeks. "No, Minju. I'm not."

Minju wrapped her arms around Winter, offering silent comfort. They stood there for a while, Winter finding solace in Minju's embrace.

After a few moments, Winter pulled back, wiping her tears. "I just don't understand why she would say something like that."

Minju sighed, brushing a strand of hair from Winter's face. "Sometimes people say things they don't mean when they're scared or insecure. It doesn't make it okay, but it's not always about you."

Winter nodded, though the hurt remained. "I need to talk to her, but I don't know if I can handle another argument."

"Take your time," Minju said gently. "But remember, you deserve to be with someone who supports your dreams."

Winter gave a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Minju."

Later that night, Winter returned to her apartment, finding Karina sitting on the couch, looking miserable. When she saw Winter, she stood up, her eyes pleading.

"Minjeong, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean what I said. I was just scared of losing you."

Winter sighed, feeling the exhaustion of the night. "Jimin, I know you're scared, but that doesn't justify hurting me. If we're going to make this work, we need to be honest and supportive of each other."

Karina nodded, tears in her eyes. "I know. I promise, I'll do better. I just love you so much, and the thought of being apart terrifies me."

Winter stepped closer, taking Karina's hands in hers. "I love you too, but we need to trust each other. If we can't do that, then we have no future."

Karina held Winter's hands tightly, determination gleaming in her eyes. "I'll earn your trust back, Minjeong. I promise."

Winter leaned in, resting her forehead against Karina's. "We'll take it one step at a time. But we need to mean it, Jimin. Every word."

As they embraced, Winter hoped this would be the turning point for their relationship. She wanted to believe in their future, but she also knew that actions spoke louder than words.

The following days were a mix of tension and cautious optimism. Karina made a genuine effort to be more supportive, and Winter appreciated the changes. However, the scars from their argument remained, a reminder of how fragile their relationship still was.

One evening, as Winter was sitting alone in her room, her phone buzzed with a message from Minju. "Can we meet tomorrow? I need to talk to you."

Winter agreed, knowing that she needed to address the lingering feelings between them. The next day, they met at their usual spot in the park. Minju looked anxious, her usual confidence shaken.

"Minjeong, I know you chose Karina, and I respect that," Minju began, her voice trembling slightly. "But I need to be honest with you. I still have feelings for you. I can't just turn them off."

Winter's heart ached at Minju's words. She had hoped that things would become simpler, but life rarely followed such straightforward paths. "Minju, I care about you deeply," Winter began, her voice trembling. She looked into Minju's eyes, seeing the raw vulnerability there. "But I've made my choice..."