how you get the girl (daerin adaptation)

- 1

Danielle hunched over her computer screen, the fluorescent lights of the advertising agency buzzed overhead, mirroring the frantic activity within her head. With a sighed that ruffled the stack of papers on her desk, Danielle pushed herself back from the chair, her lower back protesting the long hours. Grabbing her phone and purse, she made her way out of the stifling office environment. A quick text to Lily, her confidante and cousin, secured her a much-needed caffeine fix and a break from the corporate monotony.

"Looks like you need a vacation, not a coffee break," Lily greeted, gesturing Danielle to sit opposite her.

"Just trying to stay on top of everything before I leave for Minjeong's wedding."

"Ah, yes, the wedding. How do you feel about it?"

Danielle let out a weary sigh, her shoulders sagging with the weight of her emotions. "Honestly, I'm not sure. Excited, nervous, apprehensive... a whole mix of emotions, really."

"And what about seeing Minji again? Are you ready to face her?" Lily said teasingly while her gaze was directed at the counter where Haewon was taking orders.

"Hey! She might melt, I can't afford not having a housemate," Danielle joked.

"She's so pretty, please adopt me so I get to see her everyday."

"No."

"You're ruining the moment." She pouts.

"Anyway... I don't have any choice but to attend the wedding. The worst part? She recently broke up with Hanni, the girl she left me for."

"Woah, why are you updated? The real worst part is you still have feelings for her!" Lily chuckled. "Then add the other relatives who will be asked why you are still single. Huhu."

Danielle winced. Lily hit the nail on the head. Family gatherings, especially extravagant ones like Minjeong's, were notorious for the relentless. "Singlehood inquires." From well-meaning but intrusive relatives.

And then there was Minji. Despite the pain she had caused, Danielle still couldn't deny that a part of her still held onto the love they had shared. They had been together for so long, their relationship blossoming from childhood friendship into something deeper and more profound.

"But what iiifff- OMG! I have an idea!"

"Do tell."

"Well, why don't you bring one? A special someone... fabricated, of course."

"Heck, no!"

Lily shrugged, underreted by Danielle's skepticism. "Think about it. If Minji sees you with someone else, it might ignite a spark of jealousy. Show up with a stunning partner on your arm, someone who makes Minji do a double take. It might be the perfect revenge - or at least a confidence booster."

Danielle chewed on her bottom lip, considering Lily's word. It was a bold plan, one that carried its fair share of risks. But the prospect of turning the tables on Minji, of reclaiming her power or first love back was undeniably appealing.

Danielle scoffed. "Like I could find someone to pretend to be my girlfriend in two weeks, especially someone willing to fly to a remote island."

"Hmm, not just someone!" Lily countered, a sly smile playing on her lips. "It should be a bit shocking and the complete opposite of your taste, right? That would certainly catch Minji's interest. The free-spirited, if possible immature and broke."

The cafe door chimed momentarily silencing their conversation. It was Haerin, Haewon's best friend, her fierce cat eyes a stark contrast to Danielle's sleek back.