C-23
I walk hurriedly whilst scolding myself for losing track of time because I didn't have my phone with me. I enjoyed being a rebel too much that I forgot about my curfew.
The sun has completely set and the streetlights are on now. Minho and I went to the arcade after hanging out at Mochi Cafe and we played around until we got exhausted. I'm so happy because we also took so many pictures.
I discovered that we both suck at the claw machine. We played fifteen times and we didn't even get a single plushie. I think the machine is cheating because there's no way we're that bad! It's a great experience nonetheless. We also played those sports games where I somehow ended up missing the goal each time. Minho laughed so loud when the basketball hit my head!
It hurts but I'd definitely do it with him again.
There aren't many people roaming around the dimly lit street now. It's not really creepy but I'm getting goosebumps because those scenes from horror movies keep registering in my mind. It's silent too, just the faint sound of my footsteps and occasional passing cars.
It's why I've been walking fast because I think someone is following me, or maybe it's just me being paranoid again. Our neighbourhood is gated and we have guards, so it's pretty safe, but still!
When I turn to the corner, I suddenly feel chills as if someone's watching me. It's so weird. My heart drops when I hear another set of footsteps so I fasten my pace.
"Hey," a soft voice calls out.
Don't look back!
"You're Moon Y/n, right?"
I turn around before I can stop myself. For the love of all that's holy, why?!
A tall guy wearing a hoodie came into sight. I can only see half of his face because his hood is casting a dark shadow on his eyes. He looks... normal.
Not a ghost, I'm safe.
"Why do you know my name?"
"Just a wild guess," he says. He has a really soft voice.
I gulp when he suddenly takes a step closer to me. I take a step back and I hear him chuckle. He stops in front of me and extends one of his hands forward, showing me something.
"I'm just kidding. This must be yours? I saw it at the bus stop."
He hands me a nameplate with 'Moon Y/n' on it. I immediately check my bag only to find the front pocket slightly opened. It must've slipped off.
"Thank you..." I awkwardly bow to him.
"Be careful." He smiles and walks away.
I shrug and continue walking. I can already see our house a few feet away. When I reach the gates, an angry-looking Jisung comes into sight.
"Where were you, Y/n? Don't you know how worried I was?" Jisung's eyebrows are meeting. His arms are crossed as he walks towards me.
"Were you waiting for me?" I ask, feeling really guilty.
He scoffs. "I've been calling and texting you nonstop but you weren't answering!"
My shoulders jump at his loud voice. "I'm s-sorry..."
"What's happening? This has never happened before! Are you... Are you alright?"
"I'm fine..."
"How did you even sneak out? I--" He sighs loudly. "Just answer your phone next time."
"I didn't have my phone with me because my mum took it."
"Is there a problem, Y/n? You can tell me about it." Jisung holds my shoulders.
"Nothing! I'm just grounded for a week because I took Dori home. I was with Minho so you don't have to worry."
"Minho?" His gaze darkens and he lets go of me.
"Yes, we just--"
"Isn't he being a bad influence on you?"
"What are you saying?" My eyebrows meet at his words.
"Did you think I won't notice? You got grounded for him and now you know how to sneak out because of him!"
"It's not his fault! When will you stop judging him?" I feel my eyes dampen.
"Stop judging him?" He scoffs. "Can't you see what's happening here? All you can see is Minho here, Minho there! What about me?!"
I flinch at his outburst, my eyes widening in shock.
"You never hang out with me anymore! It's always Minho, but what about me? You've only been seatmates for months and we've been neighbours for longer! I was here first, Y/n!" He swallows thickly. "Do you... like Minho?"
My lips quiver as my tears fall one by one. "I'm sorry, Jisung..."
"Please don't cry..." His eyes widen, walking closer to me with careful steps and putting a gentle hand on my shoulder. "I'm sorry for shouting. I just feel like I'm losing you... I also need your attention sometimes."
"I didn't mean to worry and neglect you. It's just that you never really talk to me when you're with your friends so I didn't think you really saw me as one."
His lips part, eyes dampening as well. "I never thought you'd feel that way... I'm so sorry. I never introduced you because I... I just... I know it sounds selfish, but I wanted to be your only friend."
"Why?" I look up to him in anticipation.
"Huh? Um..." He looks away. "Because we're neighbours!"
"Neighbours?"
"Yes, and because we're like, uh, family!"
"Oh..."
"F-Family, yeah. Speaking of, your parents are inside. Don't worry, I told them you were over for the project."
"Thank you..." I give him a small smile. "Well then, we better go inside now."
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Jisung's POV
I watch Y/n as she enters their house and sigh when I can no longer see her.
I've never felt so worried in my entire life, and it's not for myself. I knew then that what I'm feeling is not just a small crush.
"Do you like Minho?"
She didn't answer it and I'm not sure if I'm prepared to hear whatever her reply is.
I like her and I'm only realising it now... I just hope I'm not too late.