For Real. Forever.

Chapter 1: The Girl

Park Jiyeon

Life has never been worse. Or better.

My name is Park Jiyeon and I have been an orphan since I was 10. My parents died in a hotel fire. They were having a vacation in Hawaii when the hotel burned up.

I used to live with my uncle but when I turned 18, I decided to live on my own. I'm in my senior year and I have to work to be able to sustain my needs. My uncle sends me money sometimes, but I still have to work.

"Jiyeon! Sausage platter to table 15!"

I went to the counter and took the tray of food in my hand. I made my way to the table and I saw my batchmates there. Hahm Eun Jung and her friends. They never bullied me but they never noticed me either.

"Hey. Here's your order."

I placed their orders down the table and I was about to leave when Eunjung called me.

"You're Jiyeon, right?"

I smiled at the girl sitting in front of me.

"Yes. Why do you ask?"

"We just want to know if you're coming to Prom," her friend answered for her.

I turned to who spoke. Go Hara.

"I... I haven't decided yet."

I don't think I will.

Eunjung handed me a card.

"Well, let me know if you've made up your mind. We are in charge of the program so I need a head count."

I nodded and went on my way.

That was the longest conversation I've ever had with them. Or anyone. I only spoke to my teachers when they asked me a question.

The day dragged on slowly and I went home. I turned the lights on and I took a shower.

My phone rang and I answered sleepily.

"Hello?"

"Hi Jiyeon."

"Uncle Kyu. Why did you call?"

"I just wanted to know how you're doing."

"I'm good."

There was a lull in our conversation. He must've sensed my weariness so he decided to cut the phone call.

"You sound so tired." He remarked.

"Yeah. I guess I am."

"I won't keep you. I'll just call you tomorrow morning. Goodnight, Jiyeon."

I miss my uncle. I want to go and live with him again. But I have to learn how to be independent.

"Okay. Goodnight Uncle."

I put my phone down and drifted off to sleep.

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"Good Morning class! Bring out your assignments!"

Most of the class groaned as Mr. Han started to discuss. I don't really understand anything but I kept my mouth shut. The class finished and I walked out of the room gloomily. I absentmindedly walked into the cafeteria and took my lunch. I sat on my regular seat, on the farthest corner.

You might wonder why I'm such a loner. I never had friends. You know why? After my parents' death, I got so traumatized and I cried for three weeks. I looked like a zombie and I didn't say a word when I went to school so my friends left me. They didn't want a lunatic friend, of course.