Ru Shi’s aunt was known for her ability to subtly orchestrate events, and today was no different. With her characteristic warmth and a playful glint in her eye, she managed to persuade both Ru Shi and Yura to accompany her on a shopping trip. It was clear that her intention was to get them out of the house and allow them some time together, even if it meant under the guise of a casual outing.
Yura and Ru Shi, though initially reluctant, found themselves in the car with his aunt, who chatted animatedly about the various shops they planned to visit. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and despite their reservations, they couldn’t help but be drawn into her plans.
As they arrived at the bustling shopping district, Yura’s mood lifted noticeably. The vibrant colors of the flowers and the cheerful ambiance of the street market brought a genuine smile to her face. She wandered through the stalls, her eyes twinkling with curiosity as she stopped to admire a bouquet of fresh flowers.
Ru Shi followed at a respectful distance, his gaze lingering on Yura as she breathed in the fragrance of the flowers. His attention was sharply focused on her, noting every small detail that made her smile so effortlessly.
Suddenly, a familiar voice called out from behind her. “Yura! Is that really you?”
Yura turned to find an old high school friend, Jin Ho, approaching her with a broad grin. He was a tall, friendly guy with a lively personality that instantly brought a burst of energy to the scene. Without hesitation, Jin Ho pulled Yura into a warm hug, lifting her off her feet slightly.
Yura laughed, her face lighting up with happiness. “Jin Ho! I haven’t seen you in ages!”
Ru Shi, observing from a short distance, felt a pang of jealousy as he watched Yura embrace her friend. The ease and familiarity between them were apparent, and he couldn’t help but feel a twinge of possessiveness. His heart tightened as he saw how comfortably Yura interacted with Jin Ho, the closeness between them serving as a stark reminder of how distant he and Yura had been.
Jin Ho released Yura from the hug, stepping back with a grin. “You look amazing! How have you been?”
Yura’s cheeks flushed slightly as she replied, “I’ve been good. Just busy with work and… life.”
Ru Shi’s gaze narrowed slightly as he watched Jin Ho’s easy familiarity with Yura. He shifted uncomfortably, feeling an unexpected surge of jealousy. The way Jin Ho looked at Yura, with genuine warmth and affection, only highlighted the contrast with his own complex and strained relationship with her.
Ru Shi’s aunt, noticing the change in his demeanor, chuckled softly. “It seems someone’s feeling a bit envious,” she murmured, her tone playful.
Ru Shi tried to mask his feelings, clearing his throat as he approached them. “Hello, Jin Ho. I’m Ru Shi.”
Jin Ho turned to Ru Shi, extending a hand. “Nice to meet you, Ru Shi. I’ve heard a lot about you.”
Ru Shi shook Jin Ho’s hand, forcing a polite smile. “Likewise.”
Yura, catching the subtle tension in Ru Shi’s body language, glanced between the two men. The smile on her face faltered for a moment as she sensed the underlying current of jealousy from Ru Shi. She felt a pang of realization that her simple reunion with an old friend had affected him more than she anticipated.
As the group continued their shopping, Ru Shi found himself struggling to keep his emotions in check. Despite the warmth of the day and the pleasant atmosphere, he felt a constant tug of jealousy and insecurity. Every laugh, every touch between Yura and Jin Ho seemed magnified, making him acutely aware of his own shortcomings.
Ru Shi’s aunt, ever perceptive, noticed the shift in the mood and decided to take the opportunity to lighten the atmosphere. “Why don’t we get some ice cream?” she suggested with a cheerful tone. “It’s a perfect day for a treat!”
Yura and Jin Ho eagerly agreed, while Ru Shi reluctantly nodded. As they walked towards the ice cream stand, Ru Shi couldn’t help but glance at Yura, who was still smiling and chatting animatedly with Jin Ho. The sight of her happiness, combined with his own feelings of jealousy, left him with a bittersweet sense of longing.
For a brief moment, as they stood in line for ice cream, Ru Shi’s jealousy was tempered by the simple pleasure of seeing Yura so content. The day, though fraught with emotional undercurrents, became a reminder of the small but significant moments of connection that still existed between them.
