In a tale like the movies, love is a sweet dance.
Jisu found Ryujin, a rose wrapped in chance.
Scarred, yet shining, in love's risky trance,
Will thorns of the past end their romance?
***
Book 1: Roses and Thorns (Completed)
Book 2: Poisoned Flowers...
“HEY MOM, just wanted to wish you an early Happy New Year! I'm so pumped to catch up before the big day! Love you!”
“I'm thrilled you're soaking up the holiday spirit, darling. Are you guys in the midst of party prep? How are Chaeryeong and Yuna doing?”
Jisu nearly let slip that Ryujin was with them but caught herself in time, realizing her mom wasn't in the loop about Ryujin yet. Shooting a slightly panicked look Ryujin's way, she covered smoothly, “Oh, they're great! They've taken over kitchen duties while I'm out here getting the backyard ready.”
Pausing her setup efforts to focus on the call, Jisu couldn't help but be distracted by Ryujin, who was showing off her muscles and throwing cheeky glances her way.
“You're going to be the end of me,” Jisu silently mouthed, barely holding back her laughter. Ryujin just flashed a cheeky smirk, tossed her hair, and got back to work.
Then came that tone in her mother's voice, the one that always threatened to make Jisu's eyes water, “Jisu-yah...” she began, regret lacing her words, “I'm really sorry I can't be there. I--”
“Mom,” Jisu cut in gently, understanding in her voice, “It's okay. I get it. You've been promoted to Financial Director at Shin's Deversorium--that's a big deal!”
Mrs. Choi exhaled, burdened with regret, “I'll make it up to you, I promise.”
“I have no doubts, mom,” Jisu reassured her warmly, “See you soon, love you. Bye for now.”
Their moment was abruptly interrupted by Yuna's enthusiastic shout. “Woohoo! Look at the lovebirds over here!” she teased, catching them off guard.
──⇌••⇋──
“Okay, everyone!” Chaeryeong chimed in, grabbing the attention of the group lounging in the receiving area. They had just wrapped up their New Year's feast and enjoyed the fireworks display, shouting greetings into the night. “I've got four slips of paper here,” she announced, explaining the task at hand. They were to pick one and pen a letter to the person whose name they drew, keeping the recipient a secret. She also laid out some stationery and pens for the activity.
Jisu carefully unfolded the paper she selected: Chaeryeong.
Under her breath, Jisu couldn't help but whisper, “Nice,” a small smile playing on her lips.
After a few moments of focused scribbling, the quartet wrapped up their letter-writing task and regrouped on the expansive sofa.
Yuna drew Ryujin's name but couldn't resist penning an additional note for her beloved Jisu eonni. Chaeryeong ended up writing to Yuna, while Ryujin's piece was destined for Jisu. They exchanged their letters and a hush descended as they delved into the contents.
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Jisu tenderly folded the note with a grin and tucked it away in her pocket before she eagerly unfolded the unexpected letter from Yuna.
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Jisu gave Yuna's back a comforting rub in response to the heartfelt letter.
──⇌••⇋──
It was past 2:00 AM. Slipping out of bed at the gentle sound of paper brushing against the floor, Jisu was quick to scoop up the note that had found its way under her door. Perching on the bed's edge, her fingers worked eagerly to unfold the message within.
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A broad, uncontrollable smile spread across Jisu's face.
