Chapter 5
"What did I just see?" Haru asked me after a while. He drove his car, and we went near the Han River.
"What?" I asked him, confused.
"Why is Yejun running after you?" He said and gave me a paper bag. I checked it out and saw a new polo shirt.
"Eh? Because I accidentally carried his vest?" I said and checked out the clothes that he gave to me.
"You stupid." He scolded me and shook his head.
"I like this! Why did you buy me clothes?" I asked him excitedly.
"Tss. I can't just let you go home with this blood. You idiot!" I frown after looking at him. I gritted my teeth after hearing him calling me stupid many times.
"What is your problem?!" I shouted at him. I wanted to cry because I feel like I'm doing something terrible, and my efforts are all wasted. I glared at him.
"Woahhh. Hush there, sweetheart. Calm down. I'm sorry, okay?. I didn't know that you're sensitive today." He said while both his hands were in the air, acting like he was surrendering.
"You... What's wrong with you? Did you know that I almost died again today?!" I said to him
"What do you mean?" Haru asked.
"You said that the heat in my chest will come two days from now, but I almost died today! You liar." I accused him and glared at him.
"What? What did you do then?" He asked me again. I pouted and told him everything that happens today.
He silently stares at me. I don't know what he was thinking, but he remained silent. He also frowned at me. I stare at him with indifference.
"That's weird. " Haru finally mumbled. There's an awkward emotion on his face.
"But well, you achieved things today. Congratulations." He smiled at me, and I feel like I did something good today. I also smiled at him.
He got out of the car, and I undressed my uniform. I hurriedly changed my clothes. I called for him after. I see the time, and it's already midnight. A white number appears in front of me.
99 days
23:54:49
I jump in shock and see the white numbers like a timer countdown in the air. I tried to touch it, but my hand only goes through it. Haru went inside the car and also saw the number in the air.
"Wow. Now, I will know my remaining days, huh." I told him and laughed. I found this so cool, even though eventually, I know that these numbers will make me feel sad.
"You better don't overdo it... You still feel pain and get sick like a normal person." He reminded me.
"I know. It's weird. I thought I would not feel anything except for the attacks." I told him and pouted
"You will miss those feelings when you work with me." He grins and starts the car. I remain quiet and just let the air breeze touch my face. Haru drove me home. I bid goodbye to him and opened the gate of our house.
I entered our home and funnily enough, just like in the past. Aside from the servants, the house is more spacious because my parents are busy with work. They are mainly around the globe, while my older sister is working as a famous brand model living in the US. She also has a boutique there, and she's planning to expand her business. I heard it before I died, but I'm not sure now.
My older sister is already married, but they have no child yet. We are not remarkably close, maybe because of my bad attitude in the past, so one of these days, I will ask her to see me if she has time. I miss my sister too.
The light in the living room is blinding. The purpose is because I cannot see in the dark. The servants are smart enough to be considerate of their evil master. I momentarily think that I have changed as a good person, but I know that I was not.
Today. I mean, yesterday's events were tiring. I experienced the attacks two times in a row, and I feel like the more guilty I am to people I do wrong, the more often I get that burning heat in my chest. I finally realized it when I watched Yejun today. He is pleasant to me. I feel guilty every time he does, also, with Penelope. I sincerely want her to be happy. If only I could help his father with his business. Hmmm.
A light bulb suddenly popped out in my mind. That's it! I need to help Penelope so that her father won't borrow money from loan sharks that would drive me to suicide. I need to work all-nighter to search for better ideas and to understand business. I can also call my sister for help! Hmm! That's it! I excitedly searched for Penelope's family business. I went to her social media first.
There's a lot of business, and somehow it isn't complicated, but I think it will suit a particular company.
I must call my sister now, but I don't know what to tell her. Maybe I will open up and think of doing business. I nodded my head and got my phone. I sit on the stool in the kitchen and get my phone to chat with my sister.
To Bella eonnie,
It's me, Jia! I am sorry for the sudden msg. I want to discuss doing business with you! It's part of our subject in school, and I am interested in crafting these days.I'm looking forward to your answers. Love Jia.Sent.
**
It's been a while, and I'm a fan of ramyeon. In the past, I refused to eat this because I'm maintaining my figure and was obsessed with my health, but it changes now. I could eat anything I like without holding back. It's like fulfilling my bucket list before I die. I humm my favorite international song and enjoy cooking.
Not everyone knows it, but I love cooking. Yumi also told me that my food is delicious and if I didn't sin, maybe I will study cooking and create my restaurant, but this kind of dream has already expired. I have no opportunity anymore, and I'm not regretting it because that's the life I chose. Even in the past, my mind was a mess after doing terrible things to people.
The water boiled, and I cooked the ramyeon. I happily eat it while surfing the internet. I even watch videos on youtube to find out about the crafting business. It's a lot more labor than I thought. Also, the person should be skilled. I can hire Penelope, though, since she has many part-time jobs. I can lessen her burden by hiring her and offering her excellent compensation. First, I need to post my previous works.
After eating and washing the dishes, I went upstairs to go to my room. I have a studio here where sometimes I do art or crafting. I always like this kind of stuff. I open my bag and get the things I buy in the antique shop. I plan to make a box, but the time is limited so I will simplify it.
Thank god I have materials, and I'm in the part of my life that I am still active doing these kinds of stuff. I opened a box and found a graphical floral wrapping paper and a navy blue ribbon. These will be the last memories I will give to Yumi, and I'm happily putting in an effort for it to look pretty.
I covered the plain small box of the graphical floral gift wrapper. I also put the wooden cat keychain and engraved our names together. The piano music box is pretty, and I only carved my initials in the most hidden spot so that Yumi won't find it. It would be my rebellion since this has initially been mine in the past.
I checked the time, and it's already 4:00 in the morning. I only have two hours to sleep. I place it in my bag and go to bed. I am so tired that the moment I reach the bed, I fall asleep.
End of chapter 5.
Chapter 6I woke up because of the alarm from my phone. I rise from bed even though I’m still sleepy. Today is the day where I will look for craft shops that I can add to my study. I also wanted to ask Penelope so that she could offer her father's business. Now that I think about it, Penelope doesn't need to have a job because her family has a company, but I don’t have any idea of her lifestyle before. There are many things to do, but I only have limited time, so I need to move even though my body and mind like rest.I yawned and rushed to shower and wear my new uniform. I plan to eat breakfast today, so check my bag and make sure that my gift to Yumi is inside. I leave my room and go to the dining room to eat.The servant was shocked when she saw me sit in the dining area. There's food on the table, and I quietly eat it alone. I finished my food without talking, and I saw her wide eyes after making sure that I didn’t say any nasty remark
Chapter 7The library is empty. There's one receptionist at the entrance who smiled at me after I entered the room.I went to the shelves and saw a book with the title Master of Korean Tradition. I opened it and saw photos depicting step-by-step knot instructions. I checked it out and found out that the book only has common designs. I checked another book and many of the designs are for making traditional Korean ornaments. I learned by reading them and plan to create a picture in my head.The books are quickly filling up on the table after I decided to make notes for every helpful information. I really need to quickly start it but I have no time to do it since I only have 99 days left. I sighed thinking I have so much work and I need someone else's help. A forbidden image comes out in my head but I quickly erase it. He offered help but it's not time yet for him to get involved. I plan to ask for Haru's help instead and with that thought, I quickly co
Chapter 8"Yumi, Are you busy today?" I asked, looking at her while we're at the music club. I just recently submitted a form to join here and Yumi is an old member. Even before she told me to participate in this club but I always refused her. It's also my chance to watch for Yejun and Penelope.I sat at the piano chair while Yumi was beside me playing. She shifted her head and looked at me."I'm not busy after this." She said and we looked at the door that opened.Na Hyuk enters the room and surveys the area. He saw Yumi and me at the piano and he stayed his gaze at me."Na Hyuk, I've been waiting for you," Yumi said and gave the paper to Na Hyuk.He frowns after checking the paper that serves as my application for joining the club. Then he looks at me. I awkwardly cling my arms to Yumi and turn my gaze to the Music club president.Na Hyuk is a very serious person. He is tall with a deep set of black eye
Chapter 9We stayed silent after, and I focused on reading the schedule, but my phone suddenly rang. I checked my phone and saw the number of my parents' secretary Ms. Shin. I answered the call while massaging my temple."Ms. Jia?" A voice of a woman from the other line."Hello, Ms. Shin." I greeted her"Are you home?" She asked in a polite voice."Uhm. Not yet. I'm still in school." I said to her, trying to sound calm."I understand. Your parents will be back tonight, and they want to have dinner with you." She said in a formal tone in addressing my parents."Alright. I will be home before dinner." I said and was about to end the call, but I waited for her reply.Ms. Shin is my parents' witty secretary. She handles most of the transactions and meetings of the CEO, and she's excellent in her job. In the past, I'm not aware of her presence and not interested in her, but she was mostly the pers
Chapter 10The outside window is dark. In the past, my parents were strict but affectionate towards me. It changes now because every time I do something applaudable, they won't praise me anymore. They became so busy that they neglected me. It started when I was nine years old. They are mostly abroad and rarely call me. One time I asked my suitor why my parents aren't calling me anymore and she said that because they were busy at work and I need to do better for them to praise me and call me. I waited for years and even for Christmas but they won't come. Same with my sister who studies abroad and leaves me alone. I remember tons of holidays and receiving gifts from Ms. Shin but the name of my parents. It's always obvious that it was her who gave me gifts since my parents don't know what I like.I bitterly smile remembering it. Even if I bullied and killed people they will ignore it and blame the victim. It's weird that I think of this now when in the past, I
Chapter 1198 days23:43:02I startle after seeing the clock reminder. My 99 days are already done. I haven't even started my plans yet! I mess up my hair because I haven't done anything that's nearly my goal!"Hey, are you okay?" Yejun called for me and a scorching heat started in my chest after I met his eyes.Ohh, Is this time? I forgot about it till now! I gritted my teeth and tears started to form in my eyes. It's not even an hour since the day started! What is this?!"Uhm, Yejun, I think I need to go back now. I'm already sleepy." I said and endured the pain while talking to him.
Chapter 12"Why did you come here?" I asked Haru while walking in the hallway. When we were on the stairs, Haru suddenly clicked his finger and our location changed. We were already at the casual dining place of a famous hotel in Incheon. Our school is located in Seoul so I just look at him with disbelief!The ambiance is authentic and I can see the modern architecture of the hotel. The restaurant has a relaxing atmosphere. I naturally walked inside and sat in the dark color chair to dine while Haru followed me smirking arrogantly. I frown and look at him with indifference."So, why are we here?" I asked Haru but we're interrupted by the waitress who was giving us menus."It's my treat to you dear because you survived the first attack." Haru said in a deep voice.He tilted his head and looked at the waitress who was shyly looking at him. I sigh and let him flirt with the poor girl. I get the menu and choose what food to orde
Chapter 13We went to the nearest coffee shop and I let Juno order for them. He knows their taste and for the first time, I was glad that he joined me. I chose amerikano because I can't drink chocolate while the rest like it. Yejun and Juno have the same order as me."Why didn't you like chocolate? Are you an old person?" He said that even though he also ordered the same drink as mine."Are you saying that to yourself?" I asked him while drinking."This day is Friday. I don't need chocolate drinks." He mumbled and walked straight to the stoplight.I didn't mind his bubbling and just waited at the street light to turn red. We walk to the pedestri
Chapter 23"Are you alright?" Yejun touches my right cheek while asking me. I cringed because of the coldness of his hand."Y-yeah." I retorted."That bastard Seohyun! If only I knew that he would do this, I might have ended him a long time ago!" Juno growled. His eyes are piercing while scanning me, maybe because I look beat up."Mr. Choi, you need to go to the doctor," I said in concern. I turned my attention to him while Yejun was still looking at me."Let's go to the Doctor, Miss Jia." Mr. Choi was worried about me, so I quickly nodded my head to him."Thank you for saving us." I glance at Yejun. He didn't answer me. Instead, he kept his eyes on me.Mr. Choi started to walk to the elevator while Yejun and Juno were following us. There's a silence in the air aside from Juno's babbling from time to time.We reached the second floor, and Mr. Choi quickly guided me to the doctor's room while Juno and Yejun waited outside."Ms. Kim. You've frequently been visiting me," says Doctor Yeon
Chapter 22Today is the day where we will visit Penelope's brother Daniel. I have no news for his father yet, and he seems quiet these days. Yesterday, all of the club members had a meeting about the club's activity next week. We need to visit an orphanage that Na Hyuk suggested. We have a plan to hold a mini-concert.I'm not into it, but I need to fulfill my responsibility as a music club member. We plan it briefly, but nothing is final yet. I'm an extra and new here. So, they mainly distributed their parts according to what they used to do. I'm guessing that they don't know where they will put me. Yejun and Penelope are our vocals, while Juno, Hyuk, and Yumi will play instruments. Yumi will also have a solo performance playing the piano. While Penelope has a solo aside from her duet with Yejun, she also proposes to play the guitar.I don't mind what kind of performance I will do, but Yumi suggested that I sing while playing the piano. I'm confident, but I'm not entirely enthusiastic
Chapter 21I made it home after that. Except for Haru and Mr. Choi, no one knew that I almost died and slept half a day in a hospital. Today, I have school, and I plan to come since people have been looking for me since yesterday. I'm glad that Yumi didn't find out what I have been through to that day.Everything was set when I left my room and went down to eat breakfast. The cook did not speak, but she made me a portion of healthy, nutritious food. It is awkward for me, but I don't mind this kind of act. Mr. Choi must be worried; I could tell the cook's eyes that she is curious yet worried for my being.After eating, I thanked her for the delicious food. I saw her smile. I went to the door to walk to the gate and found Mr. Choi waiting for me. I get in the car and put on a blue scarf because I feel the sudden chills. I will take it out later after I reach school. The campus is weirdly quiet when I walk in the hallway. Students were loitering, but everything seemed normal. I went to
Chapter 20Yejun sat beside Na Hyuk with his stern face. I know that he's confused, but I'm not sure if he knows that Seohyun was using him. I remember him as a close acquaintance of Yejun. He was also part of the art club, which was also a member of Yejun. I met him in the past after he offered me a deal for Penelope's information. Even if I was trash before, that guy was the worst. He was pleased that Penelope was getting bullied. He said that Penelope is a work of art that every time she was suffering, the more beautiful she became. I don't even understand myself, but I agree to work with him. Now, the feeling of disgust is making my throat dry."Tell me everything, Kim Jia." I heard Yejun's warning. My heart started to beat faster, and the familiar pain was growing inside my chest. His eyes are like daggers to me. I try to show a fake smirk and sip my coffee, persuading myself to withstand the unbearable heat. I tightly hold my drink and daringly look at Yejun."Why do you think y
Chapter 19Days have passed, and I can't get the timing to talk with Na Hyuk. I look at his way. He was busy on his computer. There's a serious expression on his face and a distant aura that tells you not to approach him, but I don't care about that. I have an essential thing to say, and I can't just tell him about the spy recording here because I'm not sure if the culprit installed another spy device in this room."Mr. Na Hyuk..." I called his name. His attention is still on the screen of the computer, but he answers me. "Hm?" I heard him, but I didn't speak. I stare at him, and I believe that he isn't that oblivious to ignore me."What is it?" Na Hyuk finally met my eyes. I grin after an idea pops out in my head. You spy! Let me test you for a sec. "Let's go on a date. Are you free tomorrow?" I asked him shamelessly. Tomorrow is a holiday, and the timing is good. "What?" Na Hyuk is taken aback. His eyes blink, then frown. He looks at me with a different vibe. "I will text you th
Chapter 18It's been three days since I argued with Haru. I texted him to apologize, but I didn't receive any reply. That day Juno accompanied me until sunset. We spend our day talking about trivial things, and Juno is unexpectedly humorous. Classes resume, and next week is the second semester's first periodical exam. Many students, especially seniors, are cramping because of graduation. I feel content watching their tension. However, I'm still in a rush. In three days, Nothing major happened, and I became more anxious that way. I, unfortunately, got close to Juno, and I can now sometimes ask him for an errand. He is surprisingly good with everything except for his personality. Juno will be perfect. I also offered to work for me officially. I plan to sign him a contract one of these days. "Jia! Help me with this music sheet." Juno brags in our class, and my head literally goes to him. "What?" I got startled because he suddenly went to my desk and put a piece of paper in front of me
Chapter 17 "Hi. I like two slices of cheesecake, one latte, and watermelon juice." I ordered, my eyes were sparkling because of the food. "Can you please add one espresso?" I looked at the voice on my back and found out Haru. He seems fresh with his outfits that are a mix of plain T-shirts, flannels, and denim jeans. It's my first time seeing him not wearing a black outfit. "Haru! You scare me." I greeted him. Many of the customers turned their heads to us, and most of them were girls. Haru is good-looking with his boy-next-door fashion. I agree while checking his wholesome model-like posture. "How are you, dear?" He smiled at me and patted my head. "Join us today. I'm with Yumi." I said. Haru is paying for our food. I got used to him paying for me. I let him bring our order and lead the way to Yumi. "I'm back." I said while smiling. Yumi's eyes widened when she saw Haru with me. I told him to sit beside me. "Haru, this is my best friend, Yumi Chen. Yumi, my cousin Haru."
Chapter 16“Hello?” I answered the call from Yumi. She’s been calling me a few times, but I didn’t answer her because of the spy device. I’m already in the lobby. I tried to book a taxi, but Yumi’s call kept popping out on my phone, so I answered her call.“Where are you, Kim Jia?!” Yumi’s voice thundered in my ear. I got startled and pulled the phone away from my face.“Aww. You surprised me, Yumi!” I stop walking and stand at the entrance shed of the school building.“Why are you so late? Everyone’s already here.” Yumi scolded me and didn’t even lower her voice.&ldq
Chapter 15I rushed to the door and saw that Mr. Choi was already waiting for me at the gate. He bows at me, and I greeted him while hearing my phone beep with consecutive notifications from our group.I ignore it and open a file with the record of the workshop studios I will be going to today. There's the Samcheong-dong where I originally planned to check because the attached pictures are just suitable for the workshop I'm planning to open up. Mr. Choi is reliable, and I entrust the management and other niceties in the shop, but before I think of anything, I might first purchase a place.The distance is only 1.3 miles from Seoul, and I prepare it nearby. I spent my time checking the other places, but the location was far more than I thought.<