vermilion. || nct taeil [COMPLETE]

chapter 16.

LEE BEACH HOUSE – 3:54 PM.

Rin hasn't gotten tanned for a long time. It's been a while since she last when to the beach, and she remembers it's during Hyerin's birthday that she, along with her sister and niece, went to their grandparents' house that was also near the shoreline.

She and her friends spent the entire time playing around the beach, catching waves, surfing, and just getting burnt under the sun. Chaeyoung definitely enjoyed sunbathing, with an umbrella over her of course. Meanwhile Lucas and Mark competed on who's the better surfer. No one won. They both got droned in the big waves and Jungwoo got it all on tape. So maybe Kim Jungwoo won after all.

Rin just watched from the side, taking pictures now and then. Sometimes she'd even type out a small poem in her phone whenever she feels inspired by the beautiful scenery.

There was a particular picture of a starfish that she found on shore that she liked so she sent it to her niece with the caption: 'Look, I found Patrick!'. She didn't realize she accidentally clicked on Taeil's number when she sent that until her boss replied to her text.

>> Did you just reference Spongebob Squarepants?

<< ...I'm surprised you know a kid's cartoon show, sir.

>> It's been going on for over a decade. Even I watched cartoon as a child, Lee Chaerin.

<< Really? I figured you enjoyed watching documentaries on world wars and history of writing...

>> I very much enjoyed that, too.

<< Ah...

>> Looks like you're enjoying your trip.

<< Yes, very much. It's been so long since I went on a trip with my friends. Mark looks really happy. I'm glad he's enjoying his birthday.

>> Isn't that tomorrow? August 2?

<< Yes, but we considered the weekend to be his entire birthday celebration.

>> Ah, I see.

<< I'm surprised you know his birthday, sir.

>> It's in my calendar. Employee benefits include a birthday bonus so. I'm emailed by the finance department about it.

<< Oh, I see.

>> Well, don't let me interrupt your well-deserved vacation, Lee Chaerin. Have fun over there.

<< Thank you, sir. Have fun at Xiao~Café!

>> Witty name for a café.

<< I know. Kun recommended it. He was sure you'll enjoy it.

>> Thank you for scheduling it for me, Lee Chaerin.

<< It's my pleasure, sir.

Taeil still wasn't replying for 5 minutes so Rin figured that was the end of their texting. It kinda felt weird texting her boss about trivial matter. She didn't think he'd go along with her randomness.

Nevertheless, she continued roaming around the beach, snapping pictures of the sceneries and of her friends.

She captured one where Mark was drowning at the background while Lucas posed for her camera. It was hilarious.