MAZE : The key to love

~Chapter 12~

Everyone stood in astonishment at Ji hu's declaration, and Jessica exclaimed, “So, this implies you were chosen? Wow, what a surprise.” Subsequently, the atmosphere shifted back to normal conversations. Ji hu, feeling uneasy from his prolonged stay at Jeon's residence and exacerbated by his hunger, contemplated departing. However, as he attempted to exit, Jessica grasped his hand and uttered, “No, Ji hu, you can't depart like this.”

Ji hu turned back and responded, “Apologies, I'm famished. I initially came to the mall to procure ramen for tonight; I was in the mood. Therefore, I must arrange something to eat.” Even Soo ha fretted about her parents' potential reaction to her presence at Jessica's abode without their knowledge. With a smile, Jessica intertwined her fingers with Ji hu's and proposed, “So, let's consider an idea! It's my fault; this unnecessary commotion arose because of me. Nonetheless, it led to the revelation of truths. Despite that, you all were needlessly distressed, so... Let's organize a dinner gathering!”

Soo ha looked puzzled and questioned, “huh!? How's that gonna work with our issues? If this is a joke, it's not good.” Jessica chuckled in response, “No, no! Actually, Ji hu's dinner dilemma will be resolved, and you'll have a valid excuse to explain to your parents why you'll be late. And if they need proof, our photos will suffice. It's also a good way to apologize from Jeon and my side.” Soo ha and Ji hu were delighted by Jessica's idea. Jessica hurried in, carrying a large package, and displayed it to everyone. Jeon examined it closely and remarked, “Hey, isn't this the 4 in 1 Ramen packet you got on sale last week?” Jessica nodded joyfully, sparking excitement on everyone's faces.

Jessica revealed that she had crafted a projector for the upcoming school invention challeng. She mentioned her desire to test it by watching a new K-drama, fulfilling many of her wishes. Soo ha proposed a vanilla smoothie as a dessert in case the Ramen's spice level was too high. The girls were all set to prepare the meal.

As they were on the verge of heading to the kitchen, chuckling with delight, Soo ha texted her mother about the unexpected dinner, and her mother was fine with it. However, an unexpected turn of events occurred when Ji hu suddenly appeared in front of the pair, blocking their path, and remarked, “So, the ladies will be cooking, and the gents will merely hover around? No way! Unjust! Jeon and I will neaten up the area, arrange your projector, and adorn the space until you complete your cooking.” Jeon gave his assent, leaving the girls in astonishment as they exchanged glances and giggled.

They consented to the arrangement and proceeded with their culinary plans. The evening unfolded splendidly; Jessica was elated as it marked her inaugural gathering with some acquaintances. She cherished the pleasant moments shared with Soo ha and Ji hu. Consumed by remorse for her initial treatment of Ji hu, she incessantly apologized to him, yet he graciously brushed it off.

The tantalizing scent of the sizzling dishes had the guys practically drooling with hunger! They were getting really antsy while they finished setting up the projector and the dining table. Jessica and Soo ha swiftly arranged the food on the table. Just then, Jeon piped up, “Jess! I'm feeling all sweaty and smelly, can Ji hu and I change real quick? I'll be back in a flash, sharing clothes with Ji hu.”

Jessica agreed, mentioning that the girls also wanted to freshen up. It was already 10, quite late, when they regrouped at the table. Jessica requested everyone to take a seat while she tried to start the projector. Alas, it refused to cooperate. “Oh, sorry, guys, the projector's acting up!” she exclaimed, dimming everyone's cheerful expressions. Jeon proposed, “No worries, we can use the laptop instead!” The group's spirits lifted as Jeon hurried to fetch the laptop.

They connected it and watched a captivating drama with 6 episodes titled “The Sound of Magic.” By the end of the K-drama, Jessica noticed she was the lone night owl still awake! In disbelief, she gazed at the dozing figures around her and discovered Ji hu napping on her shoulder. She gently woke everyone up and escorted Soo ha and Ji hu home.