Withered - Chapter 42: Chapter 42
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Chaeyoung presses his lips and smile. He knows Mina for years, and that expression she's showing means uneasy, confusion and something else he couldn't understand and those unknown things are ignored by him.
"Nothing"
Mina's eyes twitches. She isn't that numb to notice his changing behaviour. When she looks at him at the moment, Now, it feels like the usual him is back; the warm and funny guy she always knew. The girl isn't satisfied with his answer, just a minute before he says yes and now taking back his words aren't acceptable for her. Although she wants to confront the younger, something stopping her from saying anything more.
"Mina, do you really know him despite being friends for years. You said he changed but what if the one that you see now is the true him? I don't have a place to say anything more but, he'll tell you. Just wait for him"
Mina sigh and continue finishing her food, deciding to follows Sana's advice which is to 'Wait for him' She looks up again and an idea pops inside her. "Chaeyoungie" She reaches his hand and taps it, calling for him. The cub raises his brows, asking if she needs anything. Mina beams her gummy smile.
"Let's play a game. 100 questions. But I'm the one who's asking and you're the one who answers, truthfully"
Chaeyoung's brow connected as he still processing the girl's suggestion. He opens his mouth then close it again, loss of words. After a minute pass, he asks, "What for? I mean why?"
"Just....for fun" She exclaims, smiling at him. Nope, it's not for a simple game but a chance for Mina to recognize him. Maybe it sounds childish and stupid, but the point is to get to know him on a deep level all over again, so they can connect, so they can be closer. The fact that she can feel him a thousand miles away from her, sometimes seen him as a complete stranger, and how it bothers her that her sister---Sana seems to know the guy more than her, who is his best friend makes her upset....and maybe envy. She just wants to meet the real him.
"O...kay, " Chaeyoung nods slowly, understanding. He considers the small game she offers and a bit terrified at the outcome. It'll feel like he's interrogated and cornered in a place where he can't escape. Though his mind rejects it, his heart wants to tell her, wants to show her, and most importantly want her to acknowledge him and to finally sees him.
"....but, isn't it a bit unfair?" He trails off.
Mina hums and thinks for a while, trying to come up with something "Umm, you can ask me questions and I'll answer" She says, but the guy already has something planned in his mind. He half-heartedly smiles "No need, I know you too well". He shifts his eyes back to her and that solemn expression change into a mockery face.
"How about...you grant me a wish every ten answers I gave?" He chewed his cheeks, aren't sure where this conversation will lead to and what will be her reaction to his probably the dumbest and most bravery suggestion ever.
"I'm fine with it," She agreed, taking it a challenge. "So, what do you want?"
Chaeyoung slowly heaves a sigh, fighting back the smile that wants to break out. Lucky for him that his ears are hidden among his hair, unknown by the girl how rosy it is. He leans forward, resting an arm on the table while he tilts his head to the side. Mina just watches his movement in confusion, wondering why he doesn't say anything. Then it occurred to her when Chaeyoung points his cheeks with his index finger and glance at her, wearing that silly grin.
"A kiss on the cheeks?" She asks and the guy nods wordlessly, still smiling, showing off his deep dimple. The girl let out a small laugh then lay back to her seat as she narrows her eyes at him. Chaeyoung chuckles and pulls back, feeling small and weak under her stare.
"Nah, I'm just kidd---"
"Alright" Mina cut off, smiling at him.
* * * *
"Iron man or...Captain America?" Mina asks as she puts a potato chip inside the trolley while eating a french fries. The guy just smiles as he pushes the shopping cart, trailing the girl, while time to time, sneakily place whatever convenience food she put inside, back to the shelf.
"I prefer Aquaman"
The brunette nods, her back is facing him as she walks two feet ahead. Still adding late snacks---fruit pies, candies, chocolate bar, packaged cookies, and few more different brands just thrown at the basket.
Chaeyoung sigh staring at his---soon to be wife, who's a shopping liability. Especially when it comes to her friend, junk food. It's not because he hates those foods she buys but the girl always eats too much junk food to the point it concerns him. If he sends her to the store to get a hamburger, they'll get chips, ice cream, and more chips. She'll go willingly---to the store but doesn't do well staying on his list. You think you're going to make some pasta, but you don't have any noodles, you have a lot of chips.
After an hour of grocery shopping, they go for a moonlight stroll around the town and get lay of the land, discovering wonderful things, buy little gifts and souvenirs. They walk along the pavement having the warming, orange glow of street lamps while she has her hands hugging his arms. The shimmering sparkles of star brilliantly silhouetted into the darkness and the night fill with a pleasant silence.
"If you could wake up tomorrow having gained one quality or ability, what would it be?"
Chaeyoung hums and side glance at the girl. It's not a tough question for him to answer but a tough decision for him to says what first comes into his mind. Quality, To be enough for you. Ability, To be perfect in your eyes.
"Confidence and time travel"
Mina stop her track and face him, "Time travel?" The younger nods and she could see his eyes are dull and empty, yet they told a story of sadness and regret. Without a single word she finally understands. A soft smile crossed her face as she pulls her hands, resting it on his shoulder.
"And that's the 10th question," Mina tiptoed to his side and gives him a light kiss on the cheeks. When she pulls away, the guy still rigid in his place and the sight of him makes her chuckles. Chaeyoung brings his hand and caresses the place where Mina leaves a tiny red mark due to her lipstick. His heart is pounding too hard, it makes him dizzy for a while. A bright smile showed on his face as he tries to gain his conscious from the sudden move. He does not expect that.
This dork and his lovely smile. Mina moves to his side and hugs his arms, gesturing the guy to continue walking but end up gently dragging him since he's still in his own little world.
That small action releases the tension between them earlier and replaced by a relatively timid atmosphere. It's not a negative silence but most likely shyness take over them.
They proceed walking leisurely admiring the view of the night while she still asking questions and he answers it with honesty. When they reach the end of the sidewalk, both glancing at each other and grin before they jump on the curb with the sound of a little thud as their feet landed on the street. Both laughing with the realization that they still act like a kid.
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"Do you like high school life or college life more?" Mina sips her milk while gazing out of the cafe window. Her head rests against his chest as the guy sits beside her, both shared a blanket to warm themselves while listening to the light classical music. They are the only customer since it's nine at night and unlike the outside, the cafe is warm and antique.
Chaeyoung finds her hand and holds it. "High school," He says without hesitation.
"And why?"
"Because...you were there"
She smiles upon hearing it, scooted closer and leans against him. His heartbeat calms her down, closing her eyes, she tuned everything out. A yawn escapes her mouth before she slowly falls asleep.
Chaeyoung looks over when he feels her hand's grip loosening, only to see her sleeping face. "Sleep tight" He mutters as he runs her fingers through her hair. The guy watches her sleep with a fond smile while she wraps her arms around his waist. Chaeyoung laughs knowing that Mina really like this position and he mentally takes notes of it. He decides to carries the girl when it's already midnight back to their car and tucks her in. He gently places Mina in the passenger seat and buckles her up then drives off.
* * * *
The next morning. The villa is almost too quiet. Chaeyoung is busy in the kitchen. He knows Mina needs to eat, though he doesn't require it. He's making her some french toast as she sits at the table, drinking her apricot juice while staring out the window. She's thankful for the gift he bought for her---the classic books but as for now, she refused to read any further since the story reaches its breaking point that could lead to her downfall. Whereas, she's supposed to be happy and enjoys this spare time with Chaeyoung. She fights the urge to drown herself back into reading but focused on them.
"Can we go for a hike today?" Mina asks, gazing out across the woodlands. The old, yellow-brown leaves hustled in the wind then falls flutter down, sparse in the cool mid-autumn air.
"Maybe to the hill," She adds, the light returning to her eyes.
Chaeyoung hums and turns around. His brows creased as he leaves the toaster out on the counter and walks towards the girl, standing in front her "Are you okay with it? Isn't it too much" His eyes clouded with belated concern and his voice lost its edge.
Mina looks up to him and smile."Exercise is safe Chaengie, the doctor even recommends it. Plus, I want some fresh air." She reasoned but the guy still considering the pros and cons, averting his eyes somewhere. "Let's go, please" She pokes his tummy again and again while making a small whine. Chaeyoung rolls his eyes playfully and scoffs as he faces the girl back. Mina giggles to celebrate her little winning then cup her mouth, trying to suppress her laughter as the younger give her a deadpan look.
"Well, if it's fine with you... alright then. After you eat breakfast okay?"
Mina bobs her head as they exchange smiles and the younger takes her empty glass then makes another juice for her. Throughout breakfast, the girl still asking curious questions and learn more about him while he patiently answers all of them.
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After the early morning meal, Chaeyoung tidied the house, ran the dishwasher, takes out the trash, wiping the counters and basically keeping the place clean, presentable in the eyes and most importantly safe. He doesn't want the overwhelmed mountains of stuff everywhere in the house since it's dangerous, especially for Mina, blow over the chances of her to slip and fall, that will be a disaster.
Mina is preparing herself for their activity later. She wanted to help him but like usual he never let her do the work, insisting the girl to get some rest and wait for him until he's done with the cleaning. She looks for clothes that suitable for hiking because the clothing option is limited due to her growing bump. She then heads to the living room, wearing brightly-coloured fabrics that stretch and expand without losing her shape.
Chaeyoung turns his phone off when he heard footsteps, he smiles admiring her beauty and spring up from the couch. As he reaches the girl, he brushes her hair into a ponytail and proceeds to braid it. The cub then motions her to wait before he disappears to his room then back with a waterproof jacket. Mina thanks him as she wears the oversize Parka, she forgets to bring hers and it is too late to buy a new one---but it's better that way, wearing his clothes, it smelled like Chaeyoung. He always has that floral fruity scent which is unique for a guy and, she likes it.
Warm and comforting.
"The day is a bit cold," Chaeyoung says and pull the zip all the way up to her collar. That thing pretty much swallowed her, covering half of her face. She tries to say something but it comes out as an unclear mumble and the guy just laugh it off and says "Welcome" getting a hunch of what she's trying to deliver.
They start their walk by following a footpath through the woods which would lead them to a wide earthen trail going higher up in the hill. She walks slow and steady while keeping a firm grip to him whenever they pass on rocky and uneven terrain. Chaeyoung will slide down first and offers her his hand to help her crossed the dell, a small secluded hollow. Then they hiked along the trail which is the best well-planned route---thanks to him.
They walk through skeletal trees, their branches so bare that she could have counted the leaves on each and every single one as she passes by. With an invisible spiral of breeze, she watches the golden leaves takes to air the elegant dance then pirouetted down. When the wind calm, the dance ends and so do the rustling sound.
She takes the opportunity to empty her mind and enjoy the beauty of mother nature. A refreshing breeze invites them to linger just a bit longer and how can she not love the fact that he is also there, arms wrap around her shoulder---someone who is that important to her.
Chaeyoung has his camera with him taking photographs of each passing moment, the beautiful landscape. But, truth to be told, rather than the breathtaking scenery, he is more captivated by the girl and his eyes involuntarily search for her. Finding the latter smiling, closing her eyes, picking up the dry leaves and show a content expression, makes him really happy. Well, a photo of her won't be hurt right? He thought, convincing himself that it's not an act of him become a sudden creep and stalker.
As they reach the peak of the hill, Chaeyoung opens his backpack and takes a mat, lay it down on the flat grassy ground. The journey takes them an hour for three and a half miles. The girl isn't that exhausted but something else. They settle down on the mat and Chaeyoung set the lunchbox he brings from home and pours some warm soup that he packed inside thermos into a cup. He lifts his head when a rumbling sound is heard, witnessing the girl look away as to hide her blushing face.
"Aigoo, my baby is hungry," He says holding a laugh as he leans and put his hands on Mina's bump, caressing it.
"Yeah, the baby is hungry. So feed us" Mina rolls her eyes which earn a chuckle from him. The guy prepares sandwiches and salad for her while a mixed fruit with yoghurt for him. She moves and sits beside the younger as both watches the sunrise like a flower opening and birds chirped an explicit background melody. With breath pause in her lungs, she wishes time would halt.
"By the way, you owe me the 40th and 50th kiss" Chaeyoung bluntly says as he leans his cheeks towards her. "Now, where's my kiss?" Mina scoff and pull down the zip of her jacket, then give him a peck twice. He smiles in satisfaction and continues munching his food. They fall back into silence then it ticked something she always wanted to know.
"Say, why do you lose contact with me when you went abroad last time? Wait no, why do you ignore my calls? For months?" Mina asks, eyes lock on the orange-hued rays of sunrise. Her voice shows a slight frustration although she tries to sound normal.
Chaeyoung notices her tone and sighs silently. He never thought that the girl still thinking it and it stays at the back of her head. Though it's true that he never explains anything, the guy hopes she'll forget about it but nope it isn't the case.
"I--" He starts, Mina swiftly changes his position facing him, waiting.
"Because...I wanted to see you too much. Because, I missed you too much. If I heard your voice, I'd wanted to run back to you. I didn't call on purpose. I really held it." Chaeyoung holds both her hands, keeping his head low. Just tell her everything, "So, I work day and night to finish all the work so I can meet you as soon as possible"
Mina is stunned hearing his confession, never crosses her mind that it will be the reason. She goes speechless and only stares at him blankly. The cub clears his throat and smiles at her.
"You don't have to say anything. I
understand"
That's the last things he said until now, where both of them goes back to the Villa with only silence fills the air.
* * * *
Night rolls in. Chaeyoung turns off the stove and takes his apron off. He pours the pumpkin soup into two small bowls then scatters granola as toppings. He then lumbers over to the oven and pulls out a plate, on which a short stack of pancakes has been lovingly arranged. He prepares to two glasses of freshly squeezed orange juice and put the whole lot onto the large silver serving tray and walks over to the porch. He sets it down on a table that sits in front of a swing bed. He does an arrangement for candles and light, giving a warm, soft and pleasant look.
The lingering light a bit obliterated by the rapidly falling night, He looks upward and a weak smile plastered on his face as he stares at the moon, hoping it will guide him through the night. After stuffing the bed with pillows, he heads upstairs to wake Mina.
"She must be tired" He mumbles as he sits at the edge of the bed, bringing the comforter up to her shoulder. He doesn't have the heart to disturb her sleep so he waits again. Thankfully, not too long after, the girl groans and stretches her arms upward. Chaeyoung moves closer and helps her to sit while she's still half-asleep.
Mina rubs her eyes and slowly open it, just to be greeted by the cub, smiling at her. "Dinner?" He asks. Mina smiles back and nods. It looks like what has just happened in the morning never actually does. And he's grateful and sad at the same time. She might just sleep off his indirect confession and doesn't really think much about it. But maybe that's for the better, no more awkwardness between them.
Mina has her mouth hang open when she arrives at the porch. It's beautifully decorated. She thanks him in appreciation of his effort before they sit down on the swing bed. She apologizes for falling asleep and not being a helping hand in the kitchen. Chaeyoung brushes it off saying it isn't a big deal since Mina is not that good in cooking, so having her or not doesn't really make a big change. That straight forward statement of his earns a smack on his arms while the guy just laughs.
Chaeyoung breath out as the laughter and jokes died. They become comfortable with each other again and the small tension from the morning slowly fades away. As they devour their food, Mina stares in front, the ocean glistening mirroring the dazzling assemblage of glittering and she could hear the sounds of waves hitting the shore. Time to time she still asking questions whenever something pops inside her mind. Voluntarily gives kisses as they reach the 90th.
Mina put her plate down as she finishes eating the same goes to him. She faces the guy and utters her last question,
"Hmmm, if you could write a note to your younger self, what would you say...in only three words?"
Chaeyoung slips his hand inside his pocket, the one that away from her sight. He rubs the small box with his thumb. He let his soul run free as his worries and thought silently burn into smoke. Giving his heart full access to control him. He faces her and smiles softly.
"Confess. Right. Now"
Mina's face crumple as her smile goes falters. "Why would you say that?" She wonders. He sighs and turns his head away from her and to the front. Watching the black endless sky tranquillity married to the poetry of stars. A restfulness above to calm himself, feeling his pulse pounding in his temples.
"That's the 100th question. End of the game" He breathes out.
Mina looks away, hiding her disappointment. Maybe they can do it all over again---the question game but she knows he'll not accept it. In the end, she failed. There's still a secret, something she doesn't know about him, like now, he's someone unknown to her.
Mina exhale and presses her lips. Next time. She chanted inside her mind. The girl looks at him who still has his eyes locked in front. She leans sideways to give him a kiss for the 100th question but to her surprise, Chaeyoung suddenly turns his head and she halts from the closeness.
Their nose is touching and she freezes in her place, feeling his shallow and rapid breath against her lips. Worried, she's going to pull away and ask him if he is sick but the guy slides his hand and gently touch her cheeks. With the last bit of his courage, he closes his eyes and lifts his chin, giving a long kiss on her forehead. Only that time, Mina knows that he's crying as bead of tears falls down to her face.
"Aren't you being cruel?" His voice wavers as he rests his forehead against hers. Mina doesn't reply but stays still like a statue, her face only shows confusion. It's not because, she doesn't want to say something but she doesn't know what to say at the moment.
With butterflies in his stomach and his head buzzing with possibilities, finally, Chaeyoung gives up. Letting all the weight down, breathing normally, and feeling alive again after years of years drowning in the sea of attachment and expectation.
"There's.....this one truth about me" He pulls away and caresses her cheeks with his thumb. Chaeyoung search for her eyes but the girl is looking down, hand tightly gripping the pillow beside them.
"Mina," She lifts her head when he calls her names with wracked voice and they manage to stare at each other. The image of his tears dripping into his mouth as he cries silently, hurt her.
Chaeyoung gulp and blink to wash his eyes from the salty water so he can see her clearly. He breathes out and a faint smile formed across his face.
"I'm in love with you"
"Nothing"
Mina's eyes twitches. She isn't that numb to notice his changing behaviour. When she looks at him at the moment, Now, it feels like the usual him is back; the warm and funny guy she always knew. The girl isn't satisfied with his answer, just a minute before he says yes and now taking back his words aren't acceptable for her. Although she wants to confront the younger, something stopping her from saying anything more.
"Mina, do you really know him despite being friends for years. You said he changed but what if the one that you see now is the true him? I don't have a place to say anything more but, he'll tell you. Just wait for him"
Mina sigh and continue finishing her food, deciding to follows Sana's advice which is to 'Wait for him' She looks up again and an idea pops inside her. "Chaeyoungie" She reaches his hand and taps it, calling for him. The cub raises his brows, asking if she needs anything. Mina beams her gummy smile.
"Let's play a game. 100 questions. But I'm the one who's asking and you're the one who answers, truthfully"
Chaeyoung's brow connected as he still processing the girl's suggestion. He opens his mouth then close it again, loss of words. After a minute pass, he asks, "What for? I mean why?"
"Just....for fun" She exclaims, smiling at him. Nope, it's not for a simple game but a chance for Mina to recognize him. Maybe it sounds childish and stupid, but the point is to get to know him on a deep level all over again, so they can connect, so they can be closer. The fact that she can feel him a thousand miles away from her, sometimes seen him as a complete stranger, and how it bothers her that her sister---Sana seems to know the guy more than her, who is his best friend makes her upset....and maybe envy. She just wants to meet the real him.
"O...kay, " Chaeyoung nods slowly, understanding. He considers the small game she offers and a bit terrified at the outcome. It'll feel like he's interrogated and cornered in a place where he can't escape. Though his mind rejects it, his heart wants to tell her, wants to show her, and most importantly want her to acknowledge him and to finally sees him.
"....but, isn't it a bit unfair?" He trails off.
Mina hums and thinks for a while, trying to come up with something "Umm, you can ask me questions and I'll answer" She says, but the guy already has something planned in his mind. He half-heartedly smiles "No need, I know you too well". He shifts his eyes back to her and that solemn expression change into a mockery face.
"How about...you grant me a wish every ten answers I gave?" He chewed his cheeks, aren't sure where this conversation will lead to and what will be her reaction to his probably the dumbest and most bravery suggestion ever.
"I'm fine with it," She agreed, taking it a challenge. "So, what do you want?"
Chaeyoung slowly heaves a sigh, fighting back the smile that wants to break out. Lucky for him that his ears are hidden among his hair, unknown by the girl how rosy it is. He leans forward, resting an arm on the table while he tilts his head to the side. Mina just watches his movement in confusion, wondering why he doesn't say anything. Then it occurred to her when Chaeyoung points his cheeks with his index finger and glance at her, wearing that silly grin.
"A kiss on the cheeks?" She asks and the guy nods wordlessly, still smiling, showing off his deep dimple. The girl let out a small laugh then lay back to her seat as she narrows her eyes at him. Chaeyoung chuckles and pulls back, feeling small and weak under her stare.
"Nah, I'm just kidd---"
"Alright" Mina cut off, smiling at him.
* * * *
"Iron man or...Captain America?" Mina asks as she puts a potato chip inside the trolley while eating a french fries. The guy just smiles as he pushes the shopping cart, trailing the girl, while time to time, sneakily place whatever convenience food she put inside, back to the shelf.
"I prefer Aquaman"
The brunette nods, her back is facing him as she walks two feet ahead. Still adding late snacks---fruit pies, candies, chocolate bar, packaged cookies, and few more different brands just thrown at the basket.
Chaeyoung sigh staring at his---soon to be wife, who's a shopping liability. Especially when it comes to her friend, junk food. It's not because he hates those foods she buys but the girl always eats too much junk food to the point it concerns him. If he sends her to the store to get a hamburger, they'll get chips, ice cream, and more chips. She'll go willingly---to the store but doesn't do well staying on his list. You think you're going to make some pasta, but you don't have any noodles, you have a lot of chips.
After an hour of grocery shopping, they go for a moonlight stroll around the town and get lay of the land, discovering wonderful things, buy little gifts and souvenirs. They walk along the pavement having the warming, orange glow of street lamps while she has her hands hugging his arms. The shimmering sparkles of star brilliantly silhouetted into the darkness and the night fill with a pleasant silence.
"If you could wake up tomorrow having gained one quality or ability, what would it be?"
Chaeyoung hums and side glance at the girl. It's not a tough question for him to answer but a tough decision for him to says what first comes into his mind. Quality, To be enough for you. Ability, To be perfect in your eyes.
"Confidence and time travel"
Mina stop her track and face him, "Time travel?" The younger nods and she could see his eyes are dull and empty, yet they told a story of sadness and regret. Without a single word she finally understands. A soft smile crossed her face as she pulls her hands, resting it on his shoulder.
"And that's the 10th question," Mina tiptoed to his side and gives him a light kiss on the cheeks. When she pulls away, the guy still rigid in his place and the sight of him makes her chuckles. Chaeyoung brings his hand and caresses the place where Mina leaves a tiny red mark due to her lipstick. His heart is pounding too hard, it makes him dizzy for a while. A bright smile showed on his face as he tries to gain his conscious from the sudden move. He does not expect that.
This dork and his lovely smile. Mina moves to his side and hugs his arms, gesturing the guy to continue walking but end up gently dragging him since he's still in his own little world.
That small action releases the tension between them earlier and replaced by a relatively timid atmosphere. It's not a negative silence but most likely shyness take over them.
They proceed walking leisurely admiring the view of the night while she still asking questions and he answers it with honesty. When they reach the end of the sidewalk, both glancing at each other and grin before they jump on the curb with the sound of a little thud as their feet landed on the street. Both laughing with the realization that they still act like a kid.
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"Do you like high school life or college life more?" Mina sips her milk while gazing out of the cafe window. Her head rests against his chest as the guy sits beside her, both shared a blanket to warm themselves while listening to the light classical music. They are the only customer since it's nine at night and unlike the outside, the cafe is warm and antique.
Chaeyoung finds her hand and holds it. "High school," He says without hesitation.
"And why?"
"Because...you were there"
She smiles upon hearing it, scooted closer and leans against him. His heartbeat calms her down, closing her eyes, she tuned everything out. A yawn escapes her mouth before she slowly falls asleep.
Chaeyoung looks over when he feels her hand's grip loosening, only to see her sleeping face. "Sleep tight" He mutters as he runs her fingers through her hair. The guy watches her sleep with a fond smile while she wraps her arms around his waist. Chaeyoung laughs knowing that Mina really like this position and he mentally takes notes of it. He decides to carries the girl when it's already midnight back to their car and tucks her in. He gently places Mina in the passenger seat and buckles her up then drives off.
* * * *
The next morning. The villa is almost too quiet. Chaeyoung is busy in the kitchen. He knows Mina needs to eat, though he doesn't require it. He's making her some french toast as she sits at the table, drinking her apricot juice while staring out the window. She's thankful for the gift he bought for her---the classic books but as for now, she refused to read any further since the story reaches its breaking point that could lead to her downfall. Whereas, she's supposed to be happy and enjoys this spare time with Chaeyoung. She fights the urge to drown herself back into reading but focused on them.
"Can we go for a hike today?" Mina asks, gazing out across the woodlands. The old, yellow-brown leaves hustled in the wind then falls flutter down, sparse in the cool mid-autumn air.
"Maybe to the hill," She adds, the light returning to her eyes.
Chaeyoung hums and turns around. His brows creased as he leaves the toaster out on the counter and walks towards the girl, standing in front her "Are you okay with it? Isn't it too much" His eyes clouded with belated concern and his voice lost its edge.
Mina looks up to him and smile."Exercise is safe Chaengie, the doctor even recommends it. Plus, I want some fresh air." She reasoned but the guy still considering the pros and cons, averting his eyes somewhere. "Let's go, please" She pokes his tummy again and again while making a small whine. Chaeyoung rolls his eyes playfully and scoffs as he faces the girl back. Mina giggles to celebrate her little winning then cup her mouth, trying to suppress her laughter as the younger give her a deadpan look.
"Well, if it's fine with you... alright then. After you eat breakfast okay?"
Mina bobs her head as they exchange smiles and the younger takes her empty glass then makes another juice for her. Throughout breakfast, the girl still asking curious questions and learn more about him while he patiently answers all of them.
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After the early morning meal, Chaeyoung tidied the house, ran the dishwasher, takes out the trash, wiping the counters and basically keeping the place clean, presentable in the eyes and most importantly safe. He doesn't want the overwhelmed mountains of stuff everywhere in the house since it's dangerous, especially for Mina, blow over the chances of her to slip and fall, that will be a disaster.
Mina is preparing herself for their activity later. She wanted to help him but like usual he never let her do the work, insisting the girl to get some rest and wait for him until he's done with the cleaning. She looks for clothes that suitable for hiking because the clothing option is limited due to her growing bump. She then heads to the living room, wearing brightly-coloured fabrics that stretch and expand without losing her shape.
Chaeyoung turns his phone off when he heard footsteps, he smiles admiring her beauty and spring up from the couch. As he reaches the girl, he brushes her hair into a ponytail and proceeds to braid it. The cub then motions her to wait before he disappears to his room then back with a waterproof jacket. Mina thanks him as she wears the oversize Parka, she forgets to bring hers and it is too late to buy a new one---but it's better that way, wearing his clothes, it smelled like Chaeyoung. He always has that floral fruity scent which is unique for a guy and, she likes it.
Warm and comforting.
"The day is a bit cold," Chaeyoung says and pull the zip all the way up to her collar. That thing pretty much swallowed her, covering half of her face. She tries to say something but it comes out as an unclear mumble and the guy just laugh it off and says "Welcome" getting a hunch of what she's trying to deliver.
They start their walk by following a footpath through the woods which would lead them to a wide earthen trail going higher up in the hill. She walks slow and steady while keeping a firm grip to him whenever they pass on rocky and uneven terrain. Chaeyoung will slide down first and offers her his hand to help her crossed the dell, a small secluded hollow. Then they hiked along the trail which is the best well-planned route---thanks to him.
They walk through skeletal trees, their branches so bare that she could have counted the leaves on each and every single one as she passes by. With an invisible spiral of breeze, she watches the golden leaves takes to air the elegant dance then pirouetted down. When the wind calm, the dance ends and so do the rustling sound.
She takes the opportunity to empty her mind and enjoy the beauty of mother nature. A refreshing breeze invites them to linger just a bit longer and how can she not love the fact that he is also there, arms wrap around her shoulder---someone who is that important to her.
Chaeyoung has his camera with him taking photographs of each passing moment, the beautiful landscape. But, truth to be told, rather than the breathtaking scenery, he is more captivated by the girl and his eyes involuntarily search for her. Finding the latter smiling, closing her eyes, picking up the dry leaves and show a content expression, makes him really happy. Well, a photo of her won't be hurt right? He thought, convincing himself that it's not an act of him become a sudden creep and stalker.
As they reach the peak of the hill, Chaeyoung opens his backpack and takes a mat, lay it down on the flat grassy ground. The journey takes them an hour for three and a half miles. The girl isn't that exhausted but something else. They settle down on the mat and Chaeyoung set the lunchbox he brings from home and pours some warm soup that he packed inside thermos into a cup. He lifts his head when a rumbling sound is heard, witnessing the girl look away as to hide her blushing face.
"Aigoo, my baby is hungry," He says holding a laugh as he leans and put his hands on Mina's bump, caressing it.
"Yeah, the baby is hungry. So feed us" Mina rolls her eyes which earn a chuckle from him. The guy prepares sandwiches and salad for her while a mixed fruit with yoghurt for him. She moves and sits beside the younger as both watches the sunrise like a flower opening and birds chirped an explicit background melody. With breath pause in her lungs, she wishes time would halt.
"By the way, you owe me the 40th and 50th kiss" Chaeyoung bluntly says as he leans his cheeks towards her. "Now, where's my kiss?" Mina scoff and pull down the zip of her jacket, then give him a peck twice. He smiles in satisfaction and continues munching his food. They fall back into silence then it ticked something she always wanted to know.
"Say, why do you lose contact with me when you went abroad last time? Wait no, why do you ignore my calls? For months?" Mina asks, eyes lock on the orange-hued rays of sunrise. Her voice shows a slight frustration although she tries to sound normal.
Chaeyoung notices her tone and sighs silently. He never thought that the girl still thinking it and it stays at the back of her head. Though it's true that he never explains anything, the guy hopes she'll forget about it but nope it isn't the case.
"I--" He starts, Mina swiftly changes his position facing him, waiting.
"Because...I wanted to see you too much. Because, I missed you too much. If I heard your voice, I'd wanted to run back to you. I didn't call on purpose. I really held it." Chaeyoung holds both her hands, keeping his head low. Just tell her everything, "So, I work day and night to finish all the work so I can meet you as soon as possible"
Mina is stunned hearing his confession, never crosses her mind that it will be the reason. She goes speechless and only stares at him blankly. The cub clears his throat and smiles at her.
"You don't have to say anything. I
understand"
That's the last things he said until now, where both of them goes back to the Villa with only silence fills the air.
* * * *
Night rolls in. Chaeyoung turns off the stove and takes his apron off. He pours the pumpkin soup into two small bowls then scatters granola as toppings. He then lumbers over to the oven and pulls out a plate, on which a short stack of pancakes has been lovingly arranged. He prepares to two glasses of freshly squeezed orange juice and put the whole lot onto the large silver serving tray and walks over to the porch. He sets it down on a table that sits in front of a swing bed. He does an arrangement for candles and light, giving a warm, soft and pleasant look.
The lingering light a bit obliterated by the rapidly falling night, He looks upward and a weak smile plastered on his face as he stares at the moon, hoping it will guide him through the night. After stuffing the bed with pillows, he heads upstairs to wake Mina.
"She must be tired" He mumbles as he sits at the edge of the bed, bringing the comforter up to her shoulder. He doesn't have the heart to disturb her sleep so he waits again. Thankfully, not too long after, the girl groans and stretches her arms upward. Chaeyoung moves closer and helps her to sit while she's still half-asleep.
Mina rubs her eyes and slowly open it, just to be greeted by the cub, smiling at her. "Dinner?" He asks. Mina smiles back and nods. It looks like what has just happened in the morning never actually does. And he's grateful and sad at the same time. She might just sleep off his indirect confession and doesn't really think much about it. But maybe that's for the better, no more awkwardness between them.
Mina has her mouth hang open when she arrives at the porch. It's beautifully decorated. She thanks him in appreciation of his effort before they sit down on the swing bed. She apologizes for falling asleep and not being a helping hand in the kitchen. Chaeyoung brushes it off saying it isn't a big deal since Mina is not that good in cooking, so having her or not doesn't really make a big change. That straight forward statement of his earns a smack on his arms while the guy just laughs.
Chaeyoung breath out as the laughter and jokes died. They become comfortable with each other again and the small tension from the morning slowly fades away. As they devour their food, Mina stares in front, the ocean glistening mirroring the dazzling assemblage of glittering and she could hear the sounds of waves hitting the shore. Time to time she still asking questions whenever something pops inside her mind. Voluntarily gives kisses as they reach the 90th.
Mina put her plate down as she finishes eating the same goes to him. She faces the guy and utters her last question,
"Hmmm, if you could write a note to your younger self, what would you say...in only three words?"
Chaeyoung slips his hand inside his pocket, the one that away from her sight. He rubs the small box with his thumb. He let his soul run free as his worries and thought silently burn into smoke. Giving his heart full access to control him. He faces her and smiles softly.
"Confess. Right. Now"
Mina's face crumple as her smile goes falters. "Why would you say that?" She wonders. He sighs and turns his head away from her and to the front. Watching the black endless sky tranquillity married to the poetry of stars. A restfulness above to calm himself, feeling his pulse pounding in his temples.
"That's the 100th question. End of the game" He breathes out.
Mina looks away, hiding her disappointment. Maybe they can do it all over again---the question game but she knows he'll not accept it. In the end, she failed. There's still a secret, something she doesn't know about him, like now, he's someone unknown to her.
Mina exhale and presses her lips. Next time. She chanted inside her mind. The girl looks at him who still has his eyes locked in front. She leans sideways to give him a kiss for the 100th question but to her surprise, Chaeyoung suddenly turns his head and she halts from the closeness.
Their nose is touching and she freezes in her place, feeling his shallow and rapid breath against her lips. Worried, she's going to pull away and ask him if he is sick but the guy slides his hand and gently touch her cheeks. With the last bit of his courage, he closes his eyes and lifts his chin, giving a long kiss on her forehead. Only that time, Mina knows that he's crying as bead of tears falls down to her face.
"Aren't you being cruel?" His voice wavers as he rests his forehead against hers. Mina doesn't reply but stays still like a statue, her face only shows confusion. It's not because, she doesn't want to say something but she doesn't know what to say at the moment.
With butterflies in his stomach and his head buzzing with possibilities, finally, Chaeyoung gives up. Letting all the weight down, breathing normally, and feeling alive again after years of years drowning in the sea of attachment and expectation.
"There's.....this one truth about me" He pulls away and caresses her cheeks with his thumb. Chaeyoung search for her eyes but the girl is looking down, hand tightly gripping the pillow beside them.
"Mina," She lifts her head when he calls her names with wracked voice and they manage to stare at each other. The image of his tears dripping into his mouth as he cries silently, hurt her.
Chaeyoung gulp and blink to wash his eyes from the salty water so he can see her clearly. He breathes out and a faint smile formed across his face.
"I'm in love with you"
End of Withered Chapter 42. Continue reading Chapter 43 or return to Withered book page.