you're mine, be mine!
After a long tiring Saturday practice, Momo was finally back at the dorm, "I'm home," she greeted her roommate as she toed her footwear off, dropping her gym bag by their coat rack with a thud.
"Hey," Nayeon answers back without prying her eyes off of her phone, scrolling through it lazily, "There's food in the oven if you want," she offers.
"Thanks, I'm starving." before walking to the kitchen a little too quickly.
A couple of bites of the leftover Gimbap later, Nayeon heard Momo talking. She stopped and looked up from the screen with question lingering on her face. Is she talking to me?
"Yeah, we're done with the practice, what's up?" Oh, she's on the phone.
The Japanese walked out of the kitchen with a bottled water on hand, the other pressing the device near her ear, "Wait, you're sick?" Nayeon peers up through her eyelashes, trying to be subtle, just in case Momo was looking in her direction. She didn't intend to eavesdrop but it's really hard not to when the other is just a few steps away. "Alright, I'm coming over,"
Dahyun?
"What?!" Momo exasperatedly asked on the other line, "No, do NOT call her over. Sana, I swear to Go-"
Sana? Nayeon's mind whirred as it worked until it clicked at a realization. With the way Momo looked so against the idea, it's clear that Sana's calling Jeongyeon over... so that means-
"God!" her train of thought was interrupted as Momo exclaimed when Sana probably dropped the call and proceeded to still do as she wished.
Momo was visibly annoyed, Nayeon can tell that Sana didn't listen and unconsciously, she smirked. This is the perfect opportunity for her to start her long-awaited plan. With a grunt, Momo strides towards their door, ready to stop whatever Sana was trying to do. She knew Jeongyeon is already with Mina. How could she not, when it's all what Jeongyeon was talking about the whole morning- their Endgame Date.
"Hey, Mo, can you help me look for Jihyo?" Nayeon spoke, effectively halting Momo's pace, "She's not answering my texts," she showed her Kakao conversation with Jihyo with an outstretched hand.
Sighing, she looked back, "Nay, can we do that later? I have to go."
Nayeon pointed at the laptop sitting on their table, "I think she has a presentation today and she can't do that without it," she explains nonchalantly and urged the Japanese to read her messages.
Jihyoring:
you left your laptop???
you have presentation today
where r u
answer ur phone parking
She knows Momo will not turn her down, especially when it's about Jihyo and her studies. They both know the girl values it the most.
Momo looked conflicted but decided after a few seconds that academics matter greater, particularly to Jihyo who was aiming to graduate with flying colors, "Okay, let's go."
She slipped the laptop into its bag and slung it to her shoulders as Nayeon stepped out of their door. They walked past Sana's and she couldn't help but be worried about three things: Sana's fever, Jeongyeon's date with Mina, and Jihyo's presentation.
Little did Momo knew, Nayeon already knows that Jihyo doesn't have a class today. Little did Momo knew, Nayeon already received a reply from their roommate.
Jihyoring:
I thought I told you I don't have classes today?
I'm at a cafe with a friend, I don't need that rn. Thanks btw x
She hid a smirk after reading the messages. We could go round and round this university and we'll never find Jihyo.
It's like a coordinated heist, only, she and Sana didn't even plan any of this. It's a window that Sana unknowingly opened for her, placing everything in her gain.
Sana will have plenty of time to do whatever she wants. And so will I.
-
"I told you to always wear a coat and what do you do?" Jeongyeon sighs as she feels Sana's temple for temperature, "It's been raining lately and winter is almost here, you need to keep yourself warm, Sana-ya." she shook her head, worry clear on her expression.
Mina was left to bear witness to all these Jeongyeon and Sana interactions and she's definitely not enjoying sitting on this girl's couch. Being here is both awkward and annoying, she groans softly. She should be glad that Jeongyeon is finally getting her end of their fake dating bargain, but unsurprisingly enough, she isn't.
"I'm okay, Jeongie. I just need some meds, then you can leave," Sana says in between sniffling and a bit of coughing, all while trying to put on a weak smile for the girl before her.
Jeongyeon grimaces at the mention of medicine, "Right, I forgot about that," she sort of assumed Dahyun would have some stocked, "I have a few back at the dorm, I'll be quick."
"Okay," Sana only nodded as Jeongyeon stood to walk towards where Mina is.
Jeongyeon had her apologetic smile once again, and if Mina's being honest, it's almost getting to her nerves. How many more times would you let me down, Yoo Jeongyeon? "I'm sor-"
"Don't." Mina shook her head, unwilling to meet the other's gaze, "It's fine. Just go,"
She couldn't look her in the eye, she couldn't. She's afraid that Jeongyeon will know that nothing about this is fine with her. She's afraid Jeongyeon will see through her eyes that she's upset, that she's hurt- because Jeongyeon threw everything out the window just to see Sana.
"Mina..." Jeongyeon's voice contained an emotion she couldn't ignore- it just felt like she begs, like Jeongyeon needs to see her.
Mina wanted to deny Jeongyeon of something she pleads, just this time- just this time, she wanted not to get drowned from those painfully beautiful browns... just this time.
But just like a lot of times, Mina gives in.
How can she not when Jeongyeon is cradling her cheeks? How can she not when Jeongyeon is tipping it to face her, to meet her imploring stare?
Jeongyeon had that look on her orbs that would make your heart ache, that would make you feel what she feels. Mina had no choice, no option, but to close her lids- but to clasp the hands that held her close.
Her mind tells her to just turn away. To just leave Jeongyeon with Sana. Because that's what a good fake girlfriend would do, right? Give them the time alone. Give them what should've been theirs in the first place- each other- but the churning within her chest is back, telling her to stay, telling her to run her thumbs along the veins on Jeongyeon's hands, to lean on the soft touch...
To fall.
"Just let me do this," Jeongyeon pleads once more, her voice weak- almost a whisper, pressing their temples together, "Then I'm yours,"
Her jaw tightened, her heart constricted. Then I'm yours... Does Jeongyeon even know the weight of the words she says?
"Why... why do you keep on making things hard for me?" Mina breathes out, unbelieving that Jeongyeon means it, unwilling to take her word but at the same time, wanting to believe that Jeongyeon meant it, willing herself to take her words as something that is true and honest.
She wants to believe, she does. But Mina knows that this is all an illusion, a delusion.
Jeongyeon will never be hers.
Simply because her heart still belongs to Sana.
"What do you mean?" the other leans back, a slight confusion visible on her brows, "I promise I won't be long. I'll be gone 8 minutes tops." Jeongyeon assures her, "You don't have to talk to her if you don't want to, she'll probably just sleep anyway." completely missing the flit of emotion Mina tried to show her just a moment ago, just like how she completely missed how great of a weight her words meant to Mina. Why do you have to be so dense, Yoo Jeongyeon?
Mina pushed her a bit, a little disappointed at how Jeongyeon can be so slow at times. A little too often if you'll ask me, Mina sighed.
"Go. I'll watch her for you," are the only words she uttered. What else is there to say? That I do not want to take care of the girl who doesn't give a damn about your feelings? That I will only let you go if you'll take me with you because I don't want to spend another second sitting on your ex's couch?
Jeongyeon only smiled before kissing her cheek, "8 minutes," and walked out of the door.
Mina stared as it closed. She doesn't know why she agreed, but here she was. She pulled her gaze away and turned to look at Sana's direction.
"Thanks for letting Jeongyeon come here today." Sana smiled cheekily, and Mina knows immediately that this will be the worst 8 minutes of her life. "Also for the last few times you let her come sleep here in the dorm, that's so nice of you,"
Last few times? Sleep... what?
Mina was bewildered to say the least. The information had her mind go on a hazy, blurry state. Jeongyeon did what?
"What?"
It was evident on her voice. The hurt and pain that lashed through her heart didn't go unnoticed. Even Sana knew that Mina had no knowledge of what Jeongyeon was doing behind her back.
But does Sana care if Mina gets hurt?
She doesn't.
Why would I? It's not like I'm lying.
So she pushes through.
Sana sat up and leaned against her headboard, looking clueless at best; her expression radiating innocence. But Mina doesn't notice, doesn't bother if the girl even throws her a proud smirk or a pitiful stare. She wants to know what exactly Sana is talking about.
"She slept here a couple of times already," Sana reveals, "I hope you don't mind that I still hug her,"
Jeongyeon never said anything about this?
Mina tried to rack up her brain for anything, any proof that Jeongyeon told her that she's been going here on her ex's dorm, but to her frustration, she couldn't.
"I also want to apologize about the other day." Mina's mind is already at a loss. She doesn't know whether she should even believe any of this. She could be making all this up, she tries to convince herself and put a little more faith in Jeongyeon.
"I've read your text on her phone when she was asleep. I'm sorry she canceled on your pasta date because of me,"
Mina couldn't release the breath that she didn't know she was holding. Her whole body is tensing up, her fingers clutching the foam of the couch too harshly. There's no way Sana will know about that if all this wasn't true.
She did not expect that out of all people, she'd hear this from Sana herself.
Mina wants to get mad at Sana, at Jeongyeon. For going behind her back, for not telling her anything and leaving her out, for hurting her like this.
But then again, what right does she even have? She's not Jeongyeon's anything. She's not her girlfriend. She's not even sure whether Jeongyeon considers her as a friend.
She's just someone who Jeongyeon kisses whenever she pleases, wherever she deems it's needed- and not because she wanted to. She's just someone who Jeongyeon goes home to- not by choice, but because she needed to, to avoid raising suspicion among their friends.
She's just someone who Jeongyeon contracted to pose as her fake girl so she could get back her ex.
She's just someone who is stupid enough to let herself fall for someone who only uses her to get back to the person she loves.
Compared to Sana, she's nothing.
"Sana," even when she can barely control the pain coursing through her right now, even when she wants to go home and let all the hurt out, she wants to know the truth.
"Do you still like Jeongyeon?"
With that question, Sana looked at her intently, sternly; expressing nothing but sincerity.
"I love her, Mina."
Her heart twisted, her chest wringed. She didn't know when her tears rolled on her cheeks as she stared through Sana's earnest eyes; all Mina knows is it's ripping her apart. She always thought hearing someone profess their love to somebody else was sweet. She never knew it could claw her heart out and cut it into a thousand broken pieces.
Her breathing stuttered, her vision hazy as warm tears stung her eyes. Mina wasn't sure what Sana was thinking, but she knows the woman wasn't fazed at all. If anything, she remained stoic as she stared back at her.
Sana loves her back... and I'm the only obstacle, the only reason why Sana thinks she couldn't get Jeongyeon back.
She watched Sana's face light up at the sound of the door opening. As if minutes ago she wasn't telling her that she's in love with her 'girlfriend', "Jeongie!" she exclaimed as if nothing happened, as if everything is okay- like she knows it will be.
Like she knows she can win Jeongyeon back just by saying those three words.
Mina hurriedly wiped her tears with the back of her hand, careful not to let Jeongyeon know of her state. She took in a deep breath before she exhaled in an attempt to calm herself down, but an unconscious sniffle only got Jeongyeon's attention more- prying her eyes from Sana's bubbly face and onto Mina's slightly heaving back.
Jeongyeon quickly dropped the pack of medicine on the couch's side table and sat on her knees in front of Mina. She held her waist and tried to catch her gaze, "Hey," but Mina wouldn't let her. Something's up.
Somebody's phone rang, but neither paid attention to it. Mina was busy trying to contain everything she feels, just until she's sure she wouldn't burst while Jeongyeon was busy worrying why Mina is avoiding her stare. "What's wrong?"
No answer.
Jeongyeon clasped her face with her hands, unwilling to let go until she sees Mina. It's only then she knew that she was right. It's wet and it's rimmed with red. Why...?
"Minarin," she cooed as she wiped her tear-stained cheeks, her eyes flowing with warmth and concern, "Look at me, please,"
But it seems like no matter how much Jeongyeon pleads, no matter how much she begs, Mina wouldn't meet her gaze anymore. Instead, she pulls her face from her hold and swipes to answer her phone.
Mina's voice cracked the first time she tried to address the caller, but she clears her throat and tries again, "Nayeon,"
Jeongyeon sat there, still waiting for Mina to cast even a glance at her, completely forgetting about Sana. She listens intently to what the other line has to say, trying to make out what Nayeon was asking, "Are you busy right now? Is Jeongyeon with you?" she hears the enthusiasm in Nayeon's exceptionally loud and happy voice.
"No,"
Jeongyeon's face fell at Mina's response. She knows Mina was mad about something, but she still expected her to say that she's busy and just decline what seems like an invitation to hang out. But maybe she'll say no. Nayeon didn't exactly asked her to go out now, did she? She won't leave me, right?
"Wanna come see Endgame with me?" at this point, Jeongyeon is willing for Mina to decline. She wants to butt in and just tell Nayeon to go away, that that is their date, but she holds her tongue. Jeongyeon is confident she'll say no this time.
Mina is mad, but she won't let anyone be her Endgame date. I'm her Endgame.
"Sure."
Hearing the words that came out of Mina's lips made her weak. Why would she leave me?
The hands that held onto Mina's waist dropped. Jeongyeon couldn't understand why she's suddenly ditching her for Nayeon. What did I do?
Mina didn't bother to look at her direction and pushed a little on her shoulder, just enough to get out of the damned couch and far from Jeongyeon's grasp.
She walked and held the knob tightly, not able to twist it open at the steady pain she's feeling within her heart. Biting her lip, she lowered her head and squeezed her eyes shut; trying to stop the tears that threatened to fall once more.
Contemplating whether to look back, but didn't; seeing Jeongyeon would be the last straw for her to give in—again, she knows it very well.
So Mina pulls the door and gets out without another glance or word. Leaving Jeongyeon dumbfounded and hurt without an explanation.
Jeongyeon sat on the floor, still staring where Mina was just a few moments ago. She couldn't, for the life of her, think of anything else other than Mina.
Why Mina was crying, why Mina wordlessly cancelled their Endgame date— she's searching for a reason, but couldn't find any.
She was gone for a few minutes, what could possibly go wrong within that time frame?
Her chest heavy with ache; it's throbbing steadily, upset growing through.
Jeongyeon stood up, mind's already made up. You're not seeing that movie with anybody else.
But just as she was about to hold out her hand for the door to go after Mina, someone called for her name, "Jeongyeon,"
Fuck.
She closed her eyes, inhaling sharply before letting the air out shakily. How could she forget about Sana, the reason why she's here, the most probable reason why Mina was crying and why she left her for Nayeon.
But isn't this what we've bargained for ever since we started dating?
She turned to face Sana with a forced smile. Walked back to pick up the pack of medicine and signalled that she'll only get her something to drink it with from the kitchen.
Jeongyeon began pouring water to a glass, clenching her jaw as she goes as the logical part of her take over when her thoughts go further.
Isn't this what she and Mina planned all along? For them to get their girls back?
Isn't this the outcome they both want? To get the love of their lives back?
Her gripped tensed when her mind threw a question that begged to be answered. A question that presented itself at the most inconvenient time: now— when she's not thinking straight, when her mind's clouded and her feelings wounded.
But why does it hurt? Why is it so hard to see Mina leave me for Nayeon?
The sound of the door opening brought Jeongyeon back from her musings.
Mina?
She whipped her head back, hoping that Mina changed her mind and still wanted to go out with her.
"Sana unnie, why are you up? I told you to just rest!"
But to Jeongyeon's disappointment, Mina didn't return. Instead, Dahyun came back home, probably from her class as she still has her sling bag draping from her shoulder.
"Dahyunie!" Sana whined and immediately got out of bed, running into Dahyun's arms despite the disapproval on the Korean's face, "Welcome home!" Sana couldn't contain the happiness in her voice, the longing that's so obvious, the sweetness in it; and to top it all, she's practically all over Dahyun. Her face on her neck, her arms around her waist. It's almost like Sana wants to cuddle Dahyun even if they're standing.
Jeongyeon knows Sana is a sweetheart, she knows. But what the fuck is this?
Hit after hit.
First Mina, now Sana.
Jeongyeon doesn't even know what's the reason why her insides are being crushed, why it's starting hard to breathe.
She's standing just a few steps away from them, but it feels like Sana is so far, like she's not within Jeongyeon's reach anymore.
At this point, Jeongyeon's mind is only blank, but the same couldn't be said for the whole of her being.
Every beat, every pound inflict harm. Every touch, every kiss Sana has given to Dahyun cripple her already bruised heart.
Am I too late?
-
Momo walked ahead of Nayeon, her eyes in search for a certain brunette. She couldn't call Jihyo, because then, it would only intercept Nayeon's attempt to contact her.
"Ya, Momoring!" she hears Nayeon's lively voice.
For someone who's supposed to be worried, she's sure too happy.
Momo raised a brow when she turned to face her roommate, a little suspicion kindling within her, "Did you find her?"
Nayeon had a broad smile that showed how eager she is, "Yup. She said she doesn't need it today,"
She groaned at the knowledge that they walked for what seemed like an hour, only to find out that they did it for nothing, "Great. Let's head back, then."
Still, she felt relieved, the suspicion gone as Momo thought that Nayeon was only happy to know that Jihyo isn't going to miss any class presentations or whatnots.
"Actually, I have a date, so..." Nayeon gives her a grin that's so wide and stupid, Momo already knows that the chances of her coming home is too small.
Momo just shook her head. For the first time in a long time, she's glad that Nayeon is putting herself out there again and not chasing after Jeongyeon who has zero interest with her. She's glad that Nayeon is back to being her usual self, which means maybe she's moved on. With that, she smiles a genuine one, "Try not to wake everybody up,"
Nayeon giggles at it, "I can't promise you that,"
Momo joined her with a chuckle. They know that joke could very well be true, given Nayeon's reputation, "Just don't take her at our dorm, we don't need to hear and see you fuck like rabbits,"
"I can't promise you that," Nayeon reiterates with a wink, but started to walk to the other direction before waving good bye.
She pities the girl Nayeon will probably play like a fiddle, but that's not her problem anymore, Momo supposes. That's between them.
She heads back to the dorms, more specifically, to Sana's. She still needs to stop that stubborn woman from calling Jeongyeon over.
She thought of bringing the laptop home first, but this wouldn't take long, so when she reached Sana's door, she knocked.
And knocked.
And knocked.
Is nobody home?
But Momo thought she heard Sana's and Dahyun's whines in there. She twisted the door's knob and was surprised that it was unlocked.
She pushed through and what welcomed her was Sana wrapping all her limbs at Dahyun's whining but laughing figure.
Momo knows she has no right to feel hurt, to feel any pain, but the sight of the pair being all sweet and touchy and clingy are just too much to bear.
All those kisses Sana is landing on Dahyun's cheeks and all tha—
Her trail of thoughts went to a halt as soon as she saw someone whose eyes are just as hurt as hers. Maybe even more.
Jeongyeon.
The fuck is she doing here, watching all this?!
She's suffering inside, but Jeongyeon is probably dying from all these if she's there the whole time, she thought. She couldn't assess further what's in those eyes, she tries, but she couldn't. How could she, when she's hurting, too? How could she even begin to unburden her friend, when she herself is in this pit of heartbreak?
Momo clenched her jaw and let out a huff before she let herself in. She's not letting Sana and Dahyun torture any of them longer, no.
She walked purposely to the kitchen with an intent to pull Jeongyeon out of the scene before they both shatter.
"Jeong, come on," she held her wrist and dragged her out; drowning out the calls for their names, stopping for no one until they get out of that damned dorm.
They stopped at the hallway, subconsciously glad that neither tried to go after them. The stabbing pain is still there, but Momo takes a moment to look at their captain.
You look like shit.
She wanted to tell her, but then, so does she. She's certain that she does.
Who wouldn't be if you just witnessed how you've got no chance anymore to the person you wanted so badly? When the only chance you now have is getting kicked to the friend zone?
But amidst all the agony, Momo was struck with a realization.
Jeongyeon's with Mina... she has no right to hope for a chance with Sana!
But she doesn't jump, doesn't conclude. She knows Jeongyeon is a logical person. There's more to this.
Instead of letting her emotions get the best of her, Momo asks the next best thing, "Soju?"
-
"Mina!" Nayeon happily waved at the woman who looked like every bit of sad and disappointed, like she just stopped crying.
Jeongyeon hurt you? is the first thing that came to mind when she saw her walking seemingly out of her usual poised self.
Nayeon couldn't help the little smirk that graced her lips. Good.
She mentally shrugged the satisfaction that she felt from knowing that everything is really going according to plan and ran up to meet Mina halfway. Nayeon resisted and pushed through the flow of the crowd in order to get to a Mina who was busy staring at nothing whilst conforming to the pace set by a throng of people around her.
"Mina!" Nayeon managed to grab hold of her shoulder which made Mina look up.
She expected to see her with tears staining her cheeks but this is worse. Mina really looked like she's genuinely hurt and confused. Her eyes told her so.
Something within Nayeon pricked her chest. Mina is hurting, but she needs her to feel it. After all, most break ups usually start with tears.
Is this guilt? She wonders as the little jabs on her heart couldn't stop.
I'm sorry, Mina, but I really need you to break up with Jeongyeon.
"I've got us passes so we can see any movie you want," she grinned her widest, ignoring her previous worry.
Mina had little to no reaction or whatsoever, just a little curve on her lips, trying to resemble a smile for the girl she's with, and to be honest, Nayeon understands. Even pities her as she tried to put herself on her shoes.
Whatever Sana did must've been too much for her to look this lost.
She held Mina's hand and pulled her towards the theatre, "I know you want to see the Avengers but the next screening will be an hour later, is that okay with you?"
The Japanese only nodded and let Nayeon lead the way, "Do you wanna grab something to eat?" Nayeon looks back for an answer, she knows Mina wouldn't voice out anything in the meantime. "Or maybe coffee? Tea? Lemonade?"
Mina looked up at that, so Nayeon took it as her hint and went inside a popular coffee shop.
"Is Starbucks okay?" Mina is starting to put her senses back together, Nayeon reckons, as she hums in agreement. She smiles at her in return, in hopes that Mina feels safe with her, "So is it your usual lemon drink, or the grapefruit one?" she asks with a little sparkle in her eyes. She knows Mina liked it before, maybe it'll work still.
And maybe it really did, because she spoke up, "I'll have an Americano, please,"
The emotions that her eyes portrayed earlier are now hidden at the back, and although Nayeon can still trace some left, Mina is starting to shrug it all off, probably to unpack it later.
The thought of Mina crying herself to sleep because she's probably hurt by either what Jeongyeon or Sana said or did didn't sit well with Nayeon.
But she quickly snaps out of it, why should I care? It's all going well for me now, Mina should be the least of my concerns.
Eyes on the prize, Im. Eyes on the prize.
Mina was reaching for her purse but Nayeon was quick to catch on what the other was trying to do. She placed a gentle hand above Mina's and shook her head, "I got it,"
Mina was going to insist, Nayeon knew, so as soon as Mina tried to speak another word, she beat her to it, "You're my date, Mina. I got it." she winks at her, in hopes of lifting the other's mood.
"Do you want anything else? No?" she continues her attempt and points a finger to herself, "Me? Do you want me?"
She succeeded as Mina's smile reached her eyes; hearing her low chuckle was suddenly all that matters to her as of this moment.
"Yeah, that's what I thought," Nayeon giggled, thought it was refreshing to hear and she's the cause behind, "Now, go find us a seat."
Mina retreated with a lighter mood and Nayeon couldn't help her grin as she watched her figure do as she was told.
I still got it.
-
"One Americano for the lady that agreed to date me," Nayeon announces with jest as she placed Mina's drink in front of her, "And one Hazelnut Latte for the lady who's wanted by many,"
At that, Mina brought a hand to cover her face as she laughed at Nayeon's antics, feeling the second-hand embarrassment even though she's not sure if Nayeon feels any.
Nayeon sat beside her, chortling, "What?"
Mina shook her head, playfulness dancing in her eyes, "And how many might they be?"
"Including you?" Nayeon squinted her eyes and looked around. Her lips moved, as if really counting, "607,"
Her ears were blessed yet again when she heard her laugh at the ridiculous amount she said, "I'm not even kidding!" Mina hit Nayeon's shoulder, obviously enjoying the moment.
Nayeon didn't mind, but this is the first time Mina has hit her. Not once on their dates before she's ever done this.
It didn't hurt, it's just not a Mina thing to do.
When Mina realized what she just did, her smile faded and she immediately apologized, "Sorry,"
Nayeon didn't want to lose the progress she's made, "No! It's okay, I didn't mind."
Mina seemed to remember something about it, given the sudden plummet of her mood, and if Nayeon would hazard a guess, it has something to do with...
"Jeongyeon?"
The Japanese woman seemed to catch on what she was implying and only nodded; eyes glued to the drink in front of her to avoid Nayeon's gaze.
Of course it's her girlfriend... not for long, though.
"Aish, what did Starbucks do again?" she furrowed her brows and turned her body to face Mina, "Ya, I will kill her if she ever hurt you!"
Mina let out a weak smile. For a moment, Nayeon thought she's going to tell her, but instead, she asked a question, "Why do you call Jeongyeon Starbucks?"
And Nayeon is only happy to go down the memory lane, happy to reminisce.
"Well..."
///
Nayeon closed her eyes and inhaled the aroma her coffee has to offer.
She's at the Starbucks inside their university and while she knows it's very busy during the morning, she just needs to get that caffeine fix in order to go on with the day.
She was on her way out with a steaming cup on her hand when someone rushed past her, spilling a hot americano on her now see-through blouse.
Nayeon was both fazed and embarrassed. She wanted to squeal and let her frustrations out.
That idiot didn’t even apologize and just ran off!
She was humiliated, at the very least, and although she likes having eyes on her every time, this is an exception.
The blouse she's wearing is really soaked and she doesn’t have anything in her bag that can possibly cover herself to prevent other people from seeing her in this state.
God, this is so messed up!
She was about to run away, too, but was stopped when a girl covered her chest area with a jacket and led her to the café's restroom without a word.
“Uh...” Nayeon couldn’t react as the girl ushered her to the nearest stall and is now rummaging through her backpack.
Nayeon keeps hold of the white jacket on her chest, afraid that her blouse would also stain this stranger's jacket as well.
“Wear this.” Nayeon just looked at the shirt that’s being offered to her with furrowed brows.
Jeongyeon, little by little, gets uncomfortable. Does she want the shirt or not?
“Miss?”
“Huh?” Nayeon blinked.
“You can borrow my shirt if you like?” Jeongyeon asked, unsure whether the stranger would take her help.
“Oh yeah, thanks.” with that, Nayeon slammed the door on Jeongyeon’s face which made the latter step back a little.
Jeez, I guess the coffee dazed her or something.
Nayeon shuffled out of her drenched top and held the shirt up, only to realize it’s a bit big.
But I can work through this, beggars can't be choosers. Maybe it will pass as an oversized shirt.
She inspected the cloth more, seeing as it is issued by the university with it's name and logo in the front
Is she some sort of a varsity or staff?
Nayeon thought it doesn't matter, as of now. She just needs to get in some clean clothes.
She walked out of the stall looking all gorgeous and beautiful, and Jeongyeon couldn’t help but stare.
And that's not even her shirt... wow.
“So, are you a varsity or something? Why do you have our uni’s training shirt?” Nayeon asked.
Jeongyeon recovered and replied, “Yeah, but nah, I'm no one there.” she chuckled dryly.
They both walked out of the bathroom and Jeongyeon asked Nayeon where her next class is and offered to walk her there. “So which sport?”
“Baseball.” Jeongyeon smiled while looking far out.
Nayeon nodded, matching the other's pace, “Do you like it?”
“Hmm?”
“Baseball, do you like it?”
Jeongyeon met her gaze with that lopsided smile and twinkling eyes, "Oh, yeah. I like it a lot. I think I've learnt how to swing a baseball bat before I even learnt how to read.”
Nayeon noticed how this noirette managed to brighten up her almost sour day just by offering her her shirt and smiling like that— she couldn’t help but grin.
Jeongyeon cooed, “Aw, that’s cute!”
Nayeon scoffed, but still taking in the compliment, “Thanks, but I prefer pretty or beautiful.” she jokingly said.
Jeongyeon grinned at her, “Your two front teeth are cute, not you.”
“We don’t even know each other that long yet and I already know you are lying. Have you seen me?!” Nayeon stopped walking and twirled for the woman to see her over all beauty.
Jeongyeon just laughed, “Yeah, can’t say I like what I see though.”
Nayeon fake gasped and brought her hands to her chest, “You need to have your eyes checked. You’re nearly blind if you think I'm not!”
Jeongyeon laughed heartily, her deep brown eyes disappearing behind her lids while she clutched her stomach. Nayeon pouted while hitting the taller girl's shaking shoulders, “Ow, ow— okay! Okay!”
“Okay what, okay I'm pretty?” Nayeon bats her eyelashes.
Jeongyeon tries to contain her laughter before speaking, “Okay... I will have my eyes checked. I really can’t see what you're talking about.”
Nayeon whined at her and they both just laughed it off until they got to their destination. “Thanks for walking me here, Starbucks.”
Jeongyeon shrugged, “I was just left with no choice.” which made Nayeon roll her eyes, “But I did enjoy talking to you.” Jeongyeon's smile reached her eyes, seemingly amused with the brunette.
“Gotta go now. Bye, Pretty!” she started jogging off to the opposite direction as Nayeon waved her good bye.
Maybe I should get coffee on that Starbucks more if I'm gonna meet someone like her everytime.
///
The memory made Nayeon smile widely. Now she's reminded why she still wouldn't give up on Jeongyeon— and why she shouldn't take pity on Mina.
It reminded Nayeon to continue, to push through with her plan.
Make Mina fall for her again.
She knows it's borderline sinister, but love makes you do stupid and desperate things.
"Sounds like Jeongyeon didn't change at all," the corners of Mina's lips tugged up, probably imagining what Nayeon had just told her, "Are you sure you don't like her anymore?"
Nayeon was surprised at the question. She didn't had time to hide it, but she knows better than to tell her otherwise, "Duh, of course. I'm okay now, I've moved on."
She lied.
She’s never moved on from Jeongyeon.
She has slowed her advances, but she’s willing to play the long game, thus, the birth of her plan.
Nayeon knows if she manages to set alight Mina’s feelings for her back again, she’ll have more chances with Jeongyeon.
Mina would fall for her, they’ll fight more often, and then she’ll be there for the both of them— playing for both teams; maybe plant the break up idea on their heads subtly. A few more days, she knows someone has to give up.
And when that time comes, I’ll be there for Jeongyeon. I’ll make sure of it.
"I'm not gonna steal her from you," Nayeon starts.
I'm not making the same mistake as before, letting her take some time to herself and all that healing stuff, because look where that got me, on the bench instead of playing on the field. All because I moved too slow.
Mina got to Jeongyeon before she did, and Nayeon has no intention of letting it happen again.
Not this time, Mina.
"I'm gonna steal you from her," and ends it with a smirk.
Mina looked shocked, but Nayeon noted that a blush spread on that pale cheeks.
This is going to be easy.
She reckons it would be, since Mina isn't really hard to like. She's great company, too— not to mention beautiful.
She liked her before, that’s why she stayed for more than three days of her usual, two weeks, her most.
There’s something about Mina that Nayeon couldn’t just figure out and she would’ve indulged herself with a serious relationship, once and for all, if it weren’t for the news of Jeongyeon and Sana’s break up.
Jeongyeon has always been Nayeon’s number one, ever since they met and have been friends. She’s wanted her for a long time, but Nayeon knew she stands no chance against Minatozaki.
She is just too whipped for that Japanese girl— Nayeon knows because Jeongyeon used to tell her everything beautiful about Sana.
In her eyes, she’s the only girl that she’ll ever be with, and it broke Nayeon’s heart.
She tried to move on, resulting into dates that are too plenty for the usual count, thus, earning her the playgirl image.
But she's not, Nayeon swears she's loyal. Only, she's loyal to Jeongyeon.
She detached herself from her but they remained friends, just not as close as they were before. Mina was the first girl that came close to Jeongyeon.
She’s interesting, exciting.
She's special.
Far from all the girls she’s ever dated. She would've given them a chance, but Jeongyeon is just it.
She will always be Nayeon’s pick, over anything or anyone else.
I'm not giving her up.
With renewed determination, Nayeon stood up, "Come," and offered a hand to the woman before her, "Be mine for tonight."
-
01:14AM
Mina glanced at the clock on her phone for the nth time.
To: Jeong-ass
Are you coming home tonight?
She's been staring at her message for a while now, willing for it to have a reply from Jeongyeon.
She knows she should be mad at her, but it's the weekend, she's scheduled to stay here, and it's really late. Worry swarms her chest, but she doesn't text another, afraid that Jeongyeon will just ignore it just like the first one she sent.
Mina was determined to stay up until she gets an answer, but her tired eyes wanted rest, and she can no longer fight it.
Phone still on her hand, she let sleep take over.
It will ring if Jeongyeon sends out a reply.
Darkness engulfed her, it's the last thing she remembers, but a gentle nuzzle on her neck woke Mina up with a startle.
Disoriented, her heart raced as she was enveloped with a hug, but all that faded when a familiar scent took over her senses.
Lavender... and alcohol?
She lay on her side to face the woman beside her, but Jeongyeon only slipped an arm around Mina to hug her closer and nuzzle further, tucking herself under Mina's embrace— almost peppering her collar with light kisses.
Jeongyeon wouldn’t just do this.
“You okay?” She rubbed her back to somehow comfort her. When Jeongyeon only held her tighter, she knew something happened. She's not sure if she has something to do with this or is it because of Sana, but either way, she'll find out.
She leaned back, but Jeongyeon chased after her, hiding her face. Mina rested her hand on her neck, her thumb stroke soothingly on Jeongyeon’s jaw and tried to look at her again. Fortunately, she didn’t go after her this time.
Mina knew just from the look of her face that she’s almost wasted. Even with just the yellow light from her lamp, she knows it’s all red and her eyes doesn’t even open anymore. “Jeong, you’re drunk.”
Jeongyeon chuckled lowly, "M'not," before she buried her face on her chest.
It’s making Mina feel things she shouldn’t have, but she’s the sober one, she needs to be more responsible, “Come on, let’s get you cleaned up,” she taps on Jeongyeon’s cheek lightly, but she doesn’t budge.
She’s pinning her down with her arm around her torso and her legs hooked over her waist. “We need to get you of your outside clothes, you smell like alcohol, come on.”
"Let me stay... please," Jeongyeon pleads and Mina couldn't deny her.
She brought her hand up to run her fingers through her purple hair. Mina knows Jeongyeon secretly loves this, among everything that she does.
Mina thought she'll do this until she falls asleep, but Jeongyeon breaks away from her, her eyes searching hers.
"It's okay, you can sleep here with me," she assures her, if that's what Jeongyeon suddenly thought about.
"You told me I'll be your Endgame," Jeongyeon looked hurt, accusation on her voice, "Why would you see it with Nayeon?"
She's sulking over this? Your ex tore me apart! You lied to me!
Her mind screams at her to let Jeongyeon know all the pain that she's trying to suppress. Everything that she's momentarily forgotten while she's with Nayeon all came crashing down again.
But Mina stops herself. She's drunk. She doesn't know what she's saying.
She wanted to lash out and cry, but she wouldn't. She'd suppress it until she can. It's best if she doesn't know.
"We’ve been waiting for a month and you ditch me as soon as Nayeon called you?" You think I would if you didn't go behind my back?
"Why couldn’t you wait another day to see it with me?" So why didn't you stop me?
"Does Nayeon even know why Thanos wants to kill half of the universe? Why is Gamora?!"
And just like that, Mina melts. She laughs softly at the joke they've been nerding about ever since they've seen Infinity War.
Jeongyeon laughed and Mina couldn't help her sigh. What am I gonna do with you?
But that laugh seemed too short as Jeongyeon now pouts at her, "Mina..." her eyes pleading, almost like there'll be tears any second, "Why did you see it with her and not with me?"
Mina looked at her intently, unsure how to answer that. Jeongyeon seemed to lose her battle with sleep and alcohol as she buried her face back to Mina's chest.
She knows she doesn't have to answer anymore since the person she's talking to is probably dozing off already, but she still mulls.
"I wanted to see this with you, dumbass, but I don’t think you’d want to skip your chance of alone time with Sana." the prickly feeling in her chest is starting to grow, and she knows it will eat her alive soon, "You should be thanking me, I got you time with her."
She was surprised to hear Jeongyeon mumbling, she thought she was already out, "You're the dumb one," it was thick with sleep, but Mina still understood what she was trying to say, "I wanted to be with you and you left me."
Stop saying things like that when you don't really mean it...
Mina didn't know what to feel anymore. She's hurting but she's also confused. She figured something out when she was with Nayeon earlier, and this only confirms it further.
Maybe I should’ve put a no hugging rule. Maybe I should’ve put a no being too sweet and caring and thoughtful and a few other Jeongyeon traits on that contract.
She lets Jeongyeon sleep beside her, practically being the small spoon again; Mina smiles, seeing how peaceful Jeongyeon looked, but it was soon laced with sadness as she ran her fingers once more through the purple strands.
Maybe I should’ve put a rule about not falling, maybe I shouldn’t have agreed to this in the first place. Maybe then, I wouldn't have to constantly stop myself from imagining that you'll ever be mine.
A few moments had passed, she was still trying not to let her emotions get the best of her. At least not when she's here, she thought.
The urge to let Jeongyeon know of what she feels is too insistent; it feels heavy not to at least say it, even if she couldn't hear it.
What Jeongyeon doesn't know won't hurt me, or her.
"You’re right, I am the dumb one," she lets out a dry chuckle. She couldn't believe she's going to tell these to someone who's probably not gonna remember anything in the morning.
But is it useless? Not for Mina, no. It helps. A lot. The things she wouldn't ever dare tell Jeongyeon, she's going to now.
"Can I ask you something? Stop being so caring. Stop being so thoughtful. Stop being so sweet. Stop doing Jeongyeon things to me. You're making it really hard..." at this point, Mina is already begging. She doesn't know if her heart can take any more of this.
She's afraid that it's going to be another failure, all because she couldn't stop herself, "I don’t want to fall for you, Yoo Jeongyeon."
"I know you wouldn’t catch me, I know you’ll only hurt me," tears stain her cheeks, but she lets it. She holds Jeongyeon closer, scared that she could just be gone the next morning, back to where she really belongs.
"I’m tired of falling for the wrong people. I’m tired of falling and crying for someone whose heart is still owned by somebody else." she knows it's bound to happen. Jeongyeon will leave her for Sana. But whose fault is that? All hers because she had let herself fall for someone who already loves someone that isn't her.
Her shoulders shook as she tried to stop from hurting, her chest heaved as she tried to stop her heart from tearing apart. It's never easy to hold back, much less when you already know that you never had a fighting chance right from the start.
Fatigue started to take over Mina's being. Who knew Jeongyeon would be able to make her feel this way?
She only shook her head at the thought before kissing the crown of Jeongyeon's head, "Good night, Jeongyeonie."
It only took minutes for Mina to drift to sleep, but hours for Jeongyeon who instantly sobered up as soon as she felt Mina crying.
Jeongyeon remained beside her, clutching her closer, as if there's still space between them, her heart raging, threatening to escape her chest.
Mina is hurting because of me.
She wanted to lean up and kiss her, to take all the pain away, but then, Mina will know she's awake. She'll never finish what she's saying.
She's confused, but the same thought keeps on going and going.
Mina's words plays on loop, determined to etch it within her mind, intent to engrave it within her emotions.
As if it's all that she ever has to think of, as if it's all that should matter for her.
"I don't want to fall for you, Yoo Jeongyeon."
But I want you to fall for me.