𝐣𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧 ; 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐚

Realization

Chapter Thirteen: Realization

The years after college passed in a blur for Minjeong. She threw herself into her career, moving to a bustling city where the opportunities were endless. The fast-paced life kept her occupied, but in the quiet moments, her thoughts inevitably drifted back to her college days and the friends who had become her second family.

Among those friends, Jimin stood out the most. Minjeong often found herself reminiscing about their time together-the late-night study sessions, the spontaneous adventures, and the deep, heartfelt conversations. Despite the distance and the years that had passed, Jimin remained a constant presence in her thoughts.

One chilly evening, as Minjeong walked home from work, she found herself wandering through a park decorated with twinkling lights for the holiday season. The sight brought a wave of nostalgia, reminding her of the times she and Jimin had spent at similar events, wrapped in scarves and sharing hot cocoa.

That night, Minjeong couldn't shake the feeling of longing. She sat in her apartment, staring at a photo of the four friends from their last night together in college. The realization hit her with the force of a tidal wave-she was in love with Jimin and had been for years. It wasn't just a fleeting crush or a close friendship; it was a deep, abiding love that had grown stronger with time.

The following days were a whirlwind of emotions. Minjeong found herself questioning why she hadn't realized her feelings sooner and what she should do about them now. She decided to reach out to Jimin, who she hadn't seen in person since they graduated. They had kept in touch through occasional texts and social media, but it wasn't the same as being together.

Minjeong nervously typed out a message:

"Hey Jimin, it's been a while. I was thinking about our college days and how much I miss you. How about we catch up sometime soon?"

Jimin's response was almost immediate:

"Minjeong! I've missed you too! I'd love to catch up. How about this weekend?"

Excitement and nerves mingled in Minjeong's chest as they made plans to meet at a café they used to frequent. The days leading up to their reunion were filled with anticipation and a little bit of fear. What if Jimin didn't feel the same way? What if this meeting didn't go as planned?

Finally, the day arrived. Minjeong arrived at the café early, her heart pounding as she waited. When Jimin walked in, looking just as radiant as Minjeong remembered, all her worries melted away. They hugged tightly, the years apart vanishing in an instant.

Over coffee, they caught up on each other's lives, laughing and sharing stories. The connection between them was as strong as ever, and Minjeong felt the warmth of Jimin's presence like a balm to her soul.

After a while, there was a lull in the conversation, and Minjeong took a deep breath, deciding it was now or never. "Jimin, there's something I need to tell you. I've been thinking about us a lot lately, and I realized something important."

Jimin looked at her, curiosity and concern in her eyes. "What is it, Minjeong?"

Minjeong's heart raced as she gathered her courage. "I've been in love with you for years. I didn't realize it until recently, but looking back, it all makes sense. I love you, Jimin."

For a moment, there was silence, and Minjeong feared the worst. But then Jimin's eyes softened, and she reached across the table to take Minjeong's hand. "I've loved you too, Minjeong. I was always afraid to say anything because I didn't want to lose our friendship. But hearing you say it now, I feel like a weight has been lifted."

Minjeong's heart soared as she squeezed Jimin's hand. "So, what do we do now?"

Jimin smiled, a warm, genuine smile that lit up her face. "We take it one step at a time. Let's see where this journey takes us