Just Friends

Thirty

What a beautiful night, I thought to myself.

Seeing that the skies were clear, I decided to take a walk. Tomorrow, Bin and I will have our final workout session and the golf battle. I smiled at how this week has gone so far. Our only real connection had been during that hour that we meet at the gym, but we seem to have crossed paths numerous times – at the lake, at the restaurant.

I even saw him at the driving range the day we decided on the deal. Although assigned to the spot beside his, I chose to go to the one at the farthest end to practice my swing.

Finding myself at the main hall and seeing that the bar was still open, I went up and asked, "Do you have a couple of bottle of soju?"

While the bartender went to check, I heard the soothing tones of the piano and closed my eyes for a little while. That's the song from our show, I thought. How swee that someone still thought of playing it more than a year after it had aired.

Once I got my soju, I stood up to head back to my room but the sound of the piano lured to me to come closer. The corner where it was located was dark so I couldn't see clearly who was playing.

But the next sounds made it unmistakable.

I would never forget that baritone.

If I continue this way, will you love me?
Just come a little nearer...a little more
If I take one step closer to you, then you take two steps back

I could only see his silhouette of that perfect face I've adored for so long but somehow I could feel the pain through his song. I almost came out of the shadows but stopped myself.

That man is crying

Do you really want me to come nearer, Bin? Then what happens?

His shoulders sagged and with one last chord, he was done.

I decided to leave before he could see me.

Tomorrow.

*

We arrived at the gym at the same time again. "Good morning," we greeted each other. Searching his face, I noted he was frowning. "Is there something wrong?"

"Just a little worried about golf," he said.

I smiled smugly. "You should be worried. I'm going to beat you."

He rolled his eyes. "Have you forgotten that I've beaten you the last couple of times we made a bet?"

"I've been practicing!"

"So have I!"

For that brief moment, it felt like how things were between us before and we suddenly felt shy. Avoiding direct eye contact, I said, "Well, we'll see later. TRX first. I made an intense routine for you today."

After warm up, I went full speed with intense sets for him that he had to grunt on one round, "Geesh, you're really trying to kill me!"

When he was on his knees on a quick break, I walked close to him and bent down. "Do you give up?" I provoked.

Narrowing his eyes at me as well, still kneeling, he straightened his back nose almost touching mine. "No."

Breathing suddenly became difficult. "Let's go for this last round then. Come on! Position! Twenty reps!

I knew he was struggling but he didn't give up. I needed to keep reminding him though to maintain his posture. I saw his arms shake and knew I needed to give him a break or else it would cause him injury.