Meant To Be

CHAPTER VIII ¦Hold¦

Wednesday

"Pick you guys up at 4 p.m.?" Driver Wook glanced from the driver seat as Seul Gi and Ji Min exited the white van with black tinted windows.

They mumbled a 'yeah' and didn't gave a glance to Seul Gi's parents at the first row seat as Ji Min slid the door shut. The white van didn't moved from its spot, as if waiting for the two to become distant figures before they leave.

Seul Gi with Ji Min at her side were nearing the gate, where Tae Hyung and Wendy were waiting. "Banjang, Ji Min, good morning!" Wendy greeted but was ignored. It felt like a slap across her face.

Tae Hyung felt his chest tightening, stomach lurching. It's been like this ever since Seul Gi's parents arrived. They were immediately sent away from the Kang's residence because of their impulsive childish act. Since Monday, she and Ji Min have been cold towards them. Tae Hyung didn't like it one bit. If this went on, he wouldn't be able to take anymore.

"Noona!" He ran towards her, ignoring Wendy calling his name. Extending his hand out to hold her, his action was ceased by Ji Min. Who gripped his wrist with a cold glare.

"Ji Min, what the hay?! Just tell us what's wrong! Stop acting like this, please!" He scowled, panting. Voice almost breaking.

Guilt flashed on Ji Min's face. "Just wait til lunch, TaeTae." He said and glanced at something behind with his eyes.

Tae Hyung's face softened and Ji Min let him go. He looked over his shoulder to see the white van still there. The hair on his neck stood up, whoever was in the van was watching them. He turned to nod at Ji Min but the boy was already walking away. Seul Gi just entered the High School Dept.

"You should get to class, Tae Hyung. See you at lunch," Wendy jogged to the building Seul Gi entered. "And don't worry about it too much!"

"You say that but you're the one worrying more than too much." Tae Hyung murmured and tread to the Middle School Department building. 'Plus, how could I not do the same when it concerns Seul Gi noona?'

❤❤❤

"EXPLAIN. NOW!!" The oldest amongst their group shouted at Seul Gi and Ji Min. Who flinched and hung their head in shame.

"Um, noona.." Ho Seok scratched the side of his head, abruptly facing away when Irene glared at him.

The twelve of them were at their usual table outside. Seul Gi and Ji Min were the only ones at the left side, the five middle schoolers were seated across them. The others stood behind, waiting for answers.

Ji Min looked at Seul Gi, who seemed to be collecting herself before she breaks the ice. He sighed. "Noona's parents wants her to go to the States with them. While Hyung came to take me back to Busan."

He stiffened, exchanging horrified looks with Seul Gi. "Ji Min!" She exclaimed and they nervously stared at the others. Anxiously waiting for their reaction.

Tae Hyung blanched, regarding the duo. "You're.. you two are joking, right?" He laughed worriedly, glancing at the others for clarification.

"B-but.. it's only been three months since school started!" Wendy sputtered.

"Why are they doing this?" Joy frowned.

Irene went silent, Jin scrutinized her. "Noona?" He tapped her shoulder.

She clenched then unclenched her fists, breathing out the breath she's been holding. "My parents.. wants me to go back to Daegu for college."

"U-unnie!" Wendy breathed out, frustrated. She ran a hand through her crown, a lump forming in her throat, tears threatening to brim her eyes.