In Time (In Places Book 2)

#1.5 - Lies and Surprises

a/n: Here's a light read for tonight. Happy weekend!

x x x 

The art school screams liberty. From the giant steel gates twisted and crafted in varying symbols and shapes, to the crystal-beaded pavement that leads to the buildings improved aesthetically, to the walls painted in complete abstract, to the furniture I can't somehow comprehend, to the students who simply aren't typical, and to everything else. I've been attending this school for one whole week and I still can't fight the urge to just stop five steps from the entrance and just stand there, admiring the details.

Since the day I stepped foot into this paradise, I can't help but shower Park Chanyeol with gratitude in my mind, messages, and calls. He found me this art school and made me do this. For that, I am very much grateful.

Our family manages a business --- we make wares for factories--- and Father wants me to take over that business when the time comes. It isn't big but not particularly small, enough to send me and my brother to big universities and leave Mother a housewife. And so initially, I went to the university I graduated from only because Dad wanted me to. But I know it'll be sad for my part so I decided to join that Glee Club, something that would at least make me happy if needed. I also told myself I'm going to dropout if things start to drive me mad with depression.

And then I met that handsome Park Chanyeol and I finally decided I'm going to stay. For him, this time. And okay, for the business. But through the years we've been together, Chanyeol learned a whole lot from me and he knows it wasn't what I wanted from the very beginning. He insisted I leave school, but I didn't listen to him. And he let me do what I want.

Deep in my heart, I know I want to study art, literature, and music. I would forever want them. But what I wanted more is to be with him, and he let me do as I pleased. But now he's giving me this--- the thing I was meant to do--- and I ought to give him what he wants this time. I never asked for this, but still... 

He's just too generous sometimes.

I kicked a pebble as I continued down the pavement, hands in my pockets. "That big-eared giant knows me too well." I muttered. The wind feels chilly today and I looked up to notice thin grey clouds, threatening a shower. It's a relief I am wearing Chanyeol's baby blue long-sleeve over a white shirt. This always makes me feel warm. The size is a little too big but I managed to look okay with knee-length white shorts, socks, and a pair of Stan Smith's. Besides, I appreciate his scent clinging to it.

As I hurried down the path, an arm suddenly curled around mine, making me sigh. "Too early for today, aren't you?" Instantly, the perfume she's wearing substituted for turning my head to her face. "And what's with that bright look? Someone in your mind?" Choi Sulli even poked my cheek with her index finger and I gave her a glare, all happiness falling from my face. Beside her, Liu Amber grinned and winked.