His Paws On My Palms [DoShin]

CHAPTER 21: A COLLISION OF HEARTS

The long-awaited week-long break has finally ended. There were days I felt incomplete, but thanks to Kyungmin, he saved me from everything, and I eagerly anticipate returning to his workplace and starting my job. I had not planned to wake up early, but an inexplicable excitement surged within me. Whatever it was, I would not admit it-why would I?

"Good morning," a familiar voice greeted me as I opened the door. Youngjae leaned against the bar, gazing at the breathtaking view from our terrace.

"Good morning," I replied. He finally turned to face me.

"School again?" he asked.

"Yes," I responded.

A soft giggle escaped his lips. Lately, he had been distant, almost invisible, barely speaking to me. Today, however, was different. I could not fathom the reason for his previous silence; I doubted I had done anything wrong, but I respected his boundaries as he always respected mine. Whatever transpired between him and Shinyu, it was none of my concern. It was their business, and I would not interfere.

"Take care, Dohoon," he said.

"Yes, thanks," I replied.

"Wait," he suddenly stopped me. "Here, take this," he said, handing me a box. His other hand had been hidden behind his back.

"What is this?" I asked, genuinely puzzled, though the box looked like a lunchbox.

"Lunch. Mother visited last night. She wanted to meet you, but you were asleep," he explained.

"Is she still here?" I inquired.

"She left early. Just left me a note," he said.

"I see. Thanks, Youngjae. Please thank your mother for me," I said.

"You are welcome," he replied, finally offering a warm smile. "I will go now," he added, nodding.

On my bicycle ride, I realized I was too early for school. I decided to head to the playground, hoping to see the cat I had befriended.

I parked my bicycle and started making cat sounds, but after several minutes, there was no sign of feline friends. Disheartened, I sat on a swing.

"Where are you?" I whispered.

Suddenly, a voice cut through the quiet.

"You will not find him here."

I turned to see Hannah.

"Hannah?" I exclaimed.

"What is so special about you?" she demanded, arms crossed, her face etched with frustration. "Do you like Shinyu?" she blurted out.

Her unexpected question nearly choked me. It was a cruel question, delivered with malicious intent. Why was she here, asking such a senseless question?

But... did I?

The thought surprised me. I quickly shook my head.

"Why are you asking?" I asked.

"Why not? Who knows, maybe you are taking advantage of his kindness," she sneered, mocking me.

My fist clenched in anger. She did not know my past, my struggles.

"If you are done, I am leaving," I said, standing up. She grabbed my arm.

"I know you are confused about yourself. Shinyu is appealing, but do you think he would like you being into him?" she pressed.

Her words were confusing, infuriating. I pulled my arm away. Who is she to question my existence?