Fate

9:15 AM.

“Welcome to Kwangya Jewelries! How may I help you, sir?” A woman with short black hair greets you from behind the counter.

“Hey there, I’m looking for a gift for my girlfriend.”

“Oh, we have plenty of great choices here. Do you know what her preferences are?”

"Hmm, she loves the color black… and simple designs, I think. Sorry, I don’t know much about jewelry.” you answered while scratching the back of your neck and letting out a nervous chuckle.

“It’s alright, sir. Follow me.“ She then leads you to a section in the store.

Ranging from necklaces to rings, you were amazed at how the store had such graceful and heirloom-quality types of jewelry. As you look at each one of the accessories displayed, your mind tries to imagine how your girlfriend would look with them. But, no matter what, she would still look pretty in every single one of them.

"Having a hard time sir?” The woman asked.

“Uhh yeah…” She lets out a little giggle.

“Do you mind sharing any of her pictures? I could recommend some choices for you that way.”

You were a little hesitant to show her your girlfriend’s pictures because of her reputation as an idol. Although, you won’t get that far if you choose to stay passive. So, you had to put your trust in her since you were unsure of your girlfriend’s preferences.

“Sure, but could you please keep this on the down-low?”

“Of course.”

You took out your phone from your pocket to search for a good picture to show to the woman. Stumbling across a beautiful selfie of her, you decided that it was the one.

“Here.” You show your phone screen to the woman, making her eyes widen in shock.

“This is…” She looked at you, who quickly placed a finger on the lips, hinting at her to keep this a secret. “…I see. Give me a minute, sir.”

She then looks through the several glass display cases, trying to find some choices for you to pick out. Eventually, she laid out three different accessories in their separate boxes in front of you on a glass table.

“I think these would fit well to her liking. Have a look.”

The first one on your left was a gold necklace with a cable-like design on its chain and a shiny black or almost like a gray heart pendant. For the middle one, it was a white gold ring that holds a purely black type of gemstone. The last one was a rose gold-plated bangle featuring a black pave moon and star motif. Indecisiveness takes over your mind as you were stunned by the excellent choices that she had picked out.

“So, what do you think?”

“You picked out some great options, all of these would be perfect for her.”

You continued to wander your eyes between each of them. Your brain was working on overdrive, trying to come up with the final decision of your purchase. Out of the blue, your eyes were glued upon the necklace for a while.

“This necklace is one of our latest designs. The pendant is made out of spinel, one of the rarest minerals on earth. Specially designed to fit the younger generation’s taste. It’s a little pricey, but it’s a worthwhile purchase for a lady like her.” The woman explained as she realized that your attention was on the aforementioned necklace.

Your fingers were on your chin and your upper teeth bit your lower lip gently, thinking whether or not this necklace was the one. After fighting back and forth with your thoughts, you sighed deeply, finally coming up with a decision.

“Alright, I’m getting the necklace.”

“A splendid choice indeed sir. Let’s go back to the counter to make the purchase.”

After confirming the authenticity of the jewelry and completing the transaction of your purchase, atlast, you can sigh in relief as the woman hands you a bag with the black box containing the necklace.

“Thank you so much, Miss…”

“Minjeong.” She completes your sentence, letting you know her name.

“Minjeong… Thank you for helping me out.”

“No problem, sir. I hope she’ll love the gift!”

“I hope so too. Thanks again and have a great day!” You were about to turn around and walk out of the store, but you suddenly thought of a plan. “Uhh, Miss Minjeong?”

“Yes sir?”

“If it’s not too much for me to ask, would you… reserve the ring for me?” You asked, making Minjeong smile as she knew the purpose of the task.

“Of course, sir.”

7:00 PM.

As you were waiting for your girlfriend to dress up for the birthday dinner, you browse through the Instagram app on your phone while humming to a song that you’ve been into nowadays.

“Honey, I’m ready!” Your girlfriend suddenly calls out.

“Finally, it felt like fore—ver…”

Hwang Yeji was beautiful as always, but this time it felt different. Her orange hair was tied up into a high ponytail with some hair left to be the side bangs. Although you would prefer it to be free, it doesn’t stop you from admiring her gorgeous features. Matching her white milky skin with a cute gray dress that you bought for her on Valentine’s Day, she was making your mouth open wide, truly astonished by her visuals. The infamous cat-like eyes then formed a crescent and the light pink lips smiled as the woman that took your heart walked closer towards you, making your heart beat faster than normal.

“How do I look?” Yeji asked and did a little twirl in front of you, showcasing her outfit fully. The scent of her favorite perfume lingers in the air.

Deciding that no words were needed to answer her question, both of your hands sneaked up to her waist to drive her body closer to yours. Yeji was a bit surprised at your act but quickly succumbed to it as your head leaned down to give her a deep kiss.

“You look so beautiful.” you said after you pulled away from the kiss and were greeted by the sight of Yeji smiling ear to ear while slightly blushing.

“Thank you. You’re not so bad yourself.“ Yeji said and fixed the collar of your dress shirt, then wrapped her arms around your neck before kissing you again.

"Alright alright, let’s go now, or else we’re gonna be late.”

You promptly hold onto Yeji’s hand in which she returns it happily. After putting on a face mask, both of you then leave the door of your shared apartment to head to a restaurant that is just a five-minute walk away.

Thank god that it was a Wednesday, which meant that there were fewer people around the area of your apartment. Now with both of your arms linked together, you both went through countless stores and buildings along the way to the restaurant. Yeji’s head was resting on your left shoulder the entire time, showing you how clingy and adorable she can be even under her mask.

Before entering the restaurant, Yeji looked a bit hesitant as she held onto your arms tighter as you were about to grab the door’s handle.

“What’s wrong honey?” you asked her.

“T-There’s a lot of people here… I’m just afraid that we’re gonna get noticed.”

“Yeji, there’s nothing to worry about. I booked a private dining room for us. Besides, this place is owned by my friend, so rest assured that the waiters and the staff will keep our secret, alright?” you explained to Yeji who nodded her head cutely in agreement.

Opening the door of the restaurant, you both were instantly greeted by the hostess. You told her that you made a reservation and soon after, she led the both of you to the private dining room of the restaurant which was on the second floor.

Yeji was in awe, amazed by the aesthetic of the room. It was luxurious yet elegant, and offered an enthralling view of the hustle and bustle of the street. A massive chandelier was lighting up the room, glistening and casting white reflections on the gray walls. You both sat down on the white chair, the decorative table was already prepared with utensils, a glass that was already filled with ice-cold water, and a menu in front of both of you. Yeji looks out to the window, observing the scenery that was unfolding outside. You just smiled and admired her side profile that was on your sight with the menu book wide open in your hands.

Suddenly, footsteps filled the room, letting you know that the waiter had arrived. You were still having a hard time deciding on what to get since there were so many options listed. Before you could even ask what Yeji wanted, she immediately listed out her orders. Once you have ordered your meal, the waiter confirms both of your orders and explains that they will be ready in about fifteen minutes.

Another set of footsteps was heard again as the waiter left the room. You and Yeji turned towards where the sound was coming from and once you got a good look at that person, you smiled wide as the person that was getting closer was someone familiar to you.

“Jimin!” you called out to the person before standing up from your seat. She then pulls you in for a hug once she’s close, making Yeji widen her eyes.

Yu Jimin is one of your closest friends from high school. While you both had a different interest in education with her being into business and you into science, it doesn’t stop you both from hanging out with each other. Nowadays, it’s a bit hard for you and her to hang out, let alone meet because of your separate careers keeping you both busy. Even so, messages and video calls were the ones to help cure that longing.

Yeji eyed the woman who was still hugging you tightly. Jealousy filled her brain as she realized that the woman had a striking figure, equipped with a pair of large breasts and deadly hips which was visible from her black dress alone. Once Jimin pulls away from you, Yeji finally has a chance to have a good look on her face. As expected, she has an attractive and charming visual, forcing Yeji to wonder if both of you are close enough until…

“Oh yeah, Yeji, this is Jimin, the owner of this restaurant and one of my best friends from high school.”

“Nice to meet you, Jimin. I love the look of this place!” Yeji extended her hand out for a handshake and Jimin happily returned it.

“Thank you! This is my first time meeting an idol up close and serving them in my restaurant, so it’s a pleasure to have you here!” Jimin then turned her focus back to you. “It’s so good to see you again oppa! How have you been?”

“Good obviously, it’s my girlfriend’s birthday today!”

“Oh yeah, happy birthday!”

“Thank you!” Yeji answered.

“I’m so glad that you guys came here to celebrate. You know oppa, Aeri has been asking me when are you going to visit us again since you know, you’ve been soooo busy with work nowadays.” Jimin said, flipping her hair and cutely hitting you on the shoulder.

“I’ll come to visit around this week. How is she doing anyway? She hasn’t messaged me in a while.”

“She’s been getting more into her musicals lately. I think she has a show toni-” Jimin was interrupted by her phone suddenly ringing loudly as it was getting a call. “Oh! Excuse me for a moment.” She then turned around and answered the call with a lot of ‘mhm’ and nodding.

"Work stuff?” you asked Jimin who was finished with her call.

“Yeah. Sorry that I can’t stick around any much longer.”

“It’s alright. See you soon!” you said.

“Enjoy your meal! Bye!” Jimin quickly left the room while waving goodbye, leaving you and Yeji alone once again.

“So, what does she mean by 'visit’?” Yeji asked you in a cold tone.

“We sometimes hang out at her place, usually at night-” You suddenly realize why Yeji asked you as she’s glaring at you with a hint of anger and jealousy in her eyes.

“D-Don’t get me wrong! We’re j-just friends, nothing m-more than that!” You tried to explain yourself but Yeji’s gaze doesn’t seem to change one bit.

“So you want me to believe that you never slept with her?”

Her question was so unexpected that you started sweating because of it. Sure, you technically did sleep with her but not until you both well… had sex. However, Yeji’s gaze of evil was making you nervous and clueless on how to answer her question.

“I-uh, we-um,” You start stuttering with your head looking down, something that you rarely ever do because this is the first time that Yeji was getting jealous.

“Because even I would’ve,” Yeji said once more, making you perk your head up to see her expression changed to a smirk. “Don’t worry honey, I’m not jealous. I trust that you both are just friends.” Yeji giggled.

A few minutes passed by and both of your orders started to appear one by one on the table. Once all of the food has arrived, you both quickly dig in as the aroma of the food was making your mouth water. The steak was cooked to perfection, juicy, beefy and a little salty and the addition of fries just made it even more enjoyable. As you took a second bite, you heard Yeji’s moans that almost made you spat out the food inside your mouth as she was satisfied with her meal. Like the sweet couple you both were, the two of you shared each other’s meal while enjoying the warm atmosphere of being together.

The dinner was ending soon and Yeji ordered a big bowl of vanilla and chocolate ice cream for you both to share. Silently rummaging in your pocket for a certain box, you smiled after confirming that it was still in your possession. You looked at Yeji who was happily eating the ice cream. With a nervous sigh, you begin the scene that you were most looking forward to for today.

“Honey?” Yeji’s head then turned cutely towards you. “Close your eyes.”

“Hm, why? Are you gonna prank me again?” Yeji said while pouting, reminiscing a memory that happened about two weeks ago where you pranked Yeji by putting icing on her nose when you asked her to close her eyes during tea time at a cafe.

“No no no, I promise this is not a prank. Just close your eyes for me, okay?”

“Hmm, okay…” Yeji then closes her eyes with her hands and you pull out the black box containing the necklace you bought yesterday from your pocket.

“Alright, open your eyes,” you said after placing the box in front of her on the table. “Happy birthday, my sweet little angel.”

Once Yeji’s hands slid off of her eyes, a surprised and bright expression was plastered on her face once her eyes caught the sight of the box. You lean your head on your right hand while smiling and watching her excitedly open your gift.

“So, do you like it?” you asked as she picked up the necklace, still looking sparkly as yesterday.

“Are you kidding me? Of course, I love it!” Yeji replied.

“Here, let me put it on you.”

You stand up and move towards her side of the table. Once you’re behind her, Yeji hands you the necklace. You bring it around her neck and fasten the clasp of the necklace perfectly. She then takes a look at the necklace, holding the heart pendant in her palm.

“Can I have a look?” Yeji turns her body behind to face you, letting you see how flawless she looks with the necklace. “Wow, you look great with it!” you exclaimed after leaning down a little to match her sitting position, making Yeji giggle and kiss you on the lips.

“Thank you oppa! I love you sooo much!” Yeji said before hooking her arms on your neck and giving you a set of pecks on your cheek.

“I love you more sweetie.”

11:00 PM.

After the hearty dinner, Yeji wanted to go to the park near the apartment before going back home. As you both stroll around the park, you realize that there weren’t that many people around which in return, makes you feel a little relieved. A few more minutes later, you both then sat down on a bench in front of a small pond to rest after the long walk.

“Ahh, this feels so nice…" Yeji said, slowly leaning back to the bench and closing her eyes.

“Yeah, especially with someone like you.”

“Aww, stop that oppa!” Yeji gently punches your biceps, squealing at your little tease.

It couldn’t have been more perfect. The calming atmosphere paired with the beautiful scenery of the moonlight’s glow reflecting on the surface of the water, all adds up to the warm feeling in your heart—being together with the person you truly love.

You placed your arm on the headrest behind Yeji. Needless to say, she laid her head on your shoulder. Her hair trickles on your neck, but it doesn’t tickle at all. Patting her head is the way you spoil her with your affection. Her giggle is like a muse to your ear, and you would never get tired of it. It does hurt however when she looks up to you with her pure eyes. Your heart pounds rapidly, your body begins to feel warm, and your cheeks turn red.

Surely nothing could ruin this moment.

“Oppa.”

“Hm?”

“Can I ask you a question?”

“Ask away.”

“We’ve been together for a long time now, right?”

“Yeah, three years to be exact.”

“And… we love each other a lot, correct?”

You squint your eyes, feeling confused about a question that doesn’t need an answer for. “Of course! What, don’t you love me back babe?” you said while pouting.

“No no no no, I love you too honey!”

“Then, what’s up? Have I done something wrong?”

There was a few seconds of silence in the air, which were rare in your conversations with Yeji. She seems hesitant and nervous, judging by how she’s biting her lips often and her pupils looking around all over the place. Eventually, she gains the courage to speak up.

“What if… I was gone one day?”

You were stunned by her question. She’s never been the type to be this sentimental. Usually, she would be the opposite and would never ask questions like these. She’s always been simple-minded, so it was a shocker for you to hear these words from her.

“Yeji—”

“Would you still love me? Would you come find me?”

Her questions pour out even more, twisting your brain to find an answer, meanwhile generating more questions for you about why Yeji was acting this way in your head. At the same time, Yeji stayed silent and kept her head low, silently regretting her decision to ask such an imaginary question.

Regardless, you don’t want to risk hurting her feelings, so you might as well answer it truthfully.

“Yes, yes I will.”

Yeji lifts her head up. “Why—”

“Even though, it will never happen. I love you so much that I’ll do everything in my power to make you stay. Even if it is fated, I will still find a way to look for you. Even if there are any consequences, even how difficult it would be. No matter what, you and I will never be apart. Because why?” You pull her body closer into your arms. “Because I love you, Hwang Yeji.”

The woman in your embrace began to spill out tears from her eyes. She wasn’t expecting such an answer. You hugged her tightly and patted her back gently to calm her down.

“I love you. I really do.”

11:45 PM.

Finally, after almost thirty minutes of pampering your girlfriend, you both are on the way back to your apartment. Along the way, Yeji was back to herself, talking about how happy she was today to have spent precious time with you. Not only that, but Yeji also kept giving you kisses on the cheek after every minute passed. Thankfully, it was midnight, so no one was really around the neighborhood area anyways.

Eventually, your apartment was in your sight. You both only had one more street to cross. The crosswalk signal then turns green, prompting both you and Yeji to walk down the zebra crossing. As you held her hand, you felt a sudden uneasiness in your heart. However, her sweet smile was too distracting for you to think about it further.

Before you know it, your body was sent flying into the air. Everything seemed to transpire in slow motion until gravity pulled you back down to the earth. It wasn’t a gentle one though, so it resulted in your head hitting the ground first and your vision instantly turning black.

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Ugh…

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What the… My head hurts.
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Shit, I can’t see anything too.

.

Huh?

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Oh my god—

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“YEJI!”

Getting up was futile. Your whole body felt crushed by an unknown force. With all the strength you had, you reached out your hand and dragged yourself slowly. The headache was getting more painful, and your vision was getting blurrier as each second passed.

Regardless of what you’re going through, you know that she’s there.

Right in front of you.

Blood on your hands. Numbness on your legs. The shallowness of your breaths. Every grunt you let out conveys the pain you’re feeling all over your body. The further you go, the more unbearable it gets.

“Yeji!”

Your ear caught the screams of a few people, fire crackles and metal banging against each other. Yet it doesn’t phase you from locating her.

“Yeji…”

You’re getting weaker.

There was nothing you could do anymore.

You reached out for the one last time….

….and a familiar hand brushes upon yours.

You held onto it tightly.

“Yeji, please… stay… with me—”

Your world blackens once again.

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Only fate is your savior.