another world

chapter 10 "Catatonia"

HAERIN

Miss Shin summoned both of us to her office, and everyone saw the scandalous and chaotic altercation between me and Karina.

"Both of you lacked manners and etiquette, carrying on as if my office were a fighting arena," our boss scolded us sternly. Karina and I sat quietly in front of her imposing office table, feeling the weight of her disapproval. "This is a place of professional work, not a venue for brawls. Are you not ashamed of your behavior? Almost all your colleagues witnessed it! While I understand the frustration caused by Minji's proposal, that does not excuse your behavior. Your colleagues hold both of you in high regard for your work and professionalism, and it's essential to uphold that reputation."

I was unfazed by what our boss said; my thoughts were preoccupied with Minji, and I was still seething at Karina. None of Miss Shin's words registered with me until she singled me out, asking, "Haerin, what do you have to say about what you did? Karina mentioned that you started it." I hadn't even realized that Karina had accused me of starting the conflict. But honestly, I didn't pay it much mind.

“Honestly, I don’t regret what I did to her. She deserved it, I recounted the details to Miss Shin, expecting her to express shock at my words. Instead, she remained silent, only shaking her head to convey her disapproval of my response.

Miss Shin's stern warning hung heavy in the air. "This will serve as your warning," she declared. "If this happens again, I will suspend both of you." Karina's reaction was nothing short of theatrical. She began to cry, but there were no tears. It was as if she was a dramatic actress receiving an award at the Oscars. Miss Shin, seemingly oblivious to the act, handed Karina a tissue and attempted to offer comfort. However, it was clear to at least one person in the room that Karina's display was entirely fictitious.

"Boss Shin, I am really sorry for what happened. I am so ashamed of myself. I don't have a face to show to you and our office mates. I should have fixed whatever misunderstanding Minji and I had privately. I love Minji so much and I can't live without her," she said, sobbing even more. I was stunned by all the lying words coming from her mouth. She's a pro in drama and lying."

"Boss Shin, I think I should resign immediately because of this chaos. I need time for myself to heal my broken heart," she added. "Oh wow, even Katharine Hepburn would be unmatched in how good Karina is in drama. She really brings all the DRAMA."

I stood up from my seat and was about to leave when Miss Shin asked, "Haerin, where are you going?"

"I have to leave, Boss Shin. I think we are done here. I need to go to Minji; she still hasn't left her office and hasn't eaten anything yet. I am truly concerned about my friend," I answered back to Miss Shin, emphasizing the word "truly" and looking at Karina, who was still faking her cry. Miss Shin nodded at me, agreeing to leave. I left the two of them, and by my last glance, Karina was still not finished with her drama, while Miss Shin was still comforting her.

I bought Minji's favorite lunch and mustered up the courage to visit her office, despite her earlier indication that she didn't want to see me. I hesitantly knocked on her office door, but there was no reply from within. Upon trying the doorknob, I discovered that it was unlocked. As I cautiously pushed the door open, I was greeted by the sight of Minji seated at her desk, gazing blankly at her unopened computer screen.

"Minji," I called softly as I stood in her office doorway. I didn't want to startle her. She didn't respond, just blankly staring at her unopened computer screen. I went closer and called her again, "Minji, please talk to me, buddy," I said, unable to control the tears falling from my eyes. Still no response. I placed the food I bought for her on the table and said, "Please, buddy, eat at least a small amount." I didn't want to leave her, but I think it's necessary.

As the office hours came to an end, and my colleagues started to leave for the day, I decided to stop by Minji's office to check on her. Upon gently opening the door, I was saddened to see Minji still sitting in the same position as when I had left her earlier in the day, gazing blankly at her unopened computer. Witnessing her in this state filled me with a sense of helplessness, as I grappled with the unfamiliarity of her current mental episode. I longed for her to find release from the pain she was clearly experiencing. It was difficult for me to see her struggle in silence, especially since in the past, she had been more vocal about her emotions during times of distress.

I drew closer to her, reaching out to gently take her hand. Despite her not pulling away, there was still no reaction from her. As I glanced at the food I had left for her earlier, I noticed that she hadn't touched it. However, a small sense of relief washed over me as I realized that she had at least drunk the water I had left out; the glass sat empty. I tenderly squeezed her hand, hoping she could sense my presence, and whispered to her that I was by her side. I promised her that I would not leave her and would support her through this dark period in her life. I vowed to do everything in my power to help her find solace. As I spoke, tears continued to stream down my face. Her suffering had become my own.

She gently withdrew her hand from mine and let out a deep breath. "Haerin, I need to be alone. Please, just go," she said, her eyes fixed on the computer screen, avoiding eye contact with me. Despite my reluctance to leave her, I knew it was necessary to prevent adding more stress and triggering her depression. Reluctantly, I left her office, even though it was the last thing I wanted to do. I promised to return as soon as possible, planning to call Danielle to update her on Minji's situation.