Chapter 6
I 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 remarks regarding her cooking. Before, I used to use all the adjectives to criticize her, but it changes now. I have no time for petty discussion. I thank her and now go to the entrance. I saw the driver waiting for me outside the house. I hopped in, and we arrived at school.
I walked to the hallway and looked forward to seeing Yumi today. There’s a smile on my face while I go to our room. It's a new feeling that I am early, and there’s no student inside yet. I plan to go to the library after the third period to search for a book about making crafts. It’s better to ask for a professional than to follow my own pace. I know that I’m doing good, but I’m still lacking.
“Good morning.” a voice came outside the classroom, and I saw Yejun with his natural poker face. He goes to me and sits in the chair in front.
“Good morning.” I said and hid my phone.
“You're early today.” He said and looked at the empty classroom.
“Yeah. I’m waiting for Yumi.” I said and awkwardly shifted my gaze.
“Are you going to the hospital today? You’re early too” I asked him because the silence is giving me a hard time.
“Penelope will be absent at school today, and she told me to ask permission from the teacher. I came early because of that. I will go to the hospital later. If you’re going to visit, tell me, and let’s go together.” He said in a monotone tune.
“I’m sorry. I won’t be visiting now because I’m busy. I need to find a shop today.” I told him as bait so he can tell it to Penelope later.
“What kind of shop?” Yejun asked me with interest.
I grin and look at him.
“I plan to sell my craft design, and I’m looking for a manufacturer.” I told him enthusiastically. There’s a hint of excitement in my face, and I like to lure him into being interested so I can convince Penelope to join me later.
My face turns sour when I realize that my evil side is showing again. I fixed my expression after reflecting. I look at Yejun, who’s listening to me seriously.
“Well, that’s only a plan. I’m not that good at creating designs, and I need to study crafting more. I will look for books later in the library.” I told him. I was feeling embarrassed, bragging about my skill. When in the past, my confidence was higher than Empire estate… but it changes now.
“I can help you through.” He said out of the blue.
I stare at him, trying to check if I did hear it wrong. His deep black eyes are also looking at me. I cough after a minute of staring at each other. There’s the familiar heat inside my heart, bringing the pain in my chest again.
“Why?....” I asked and got flustered.
“I mean, you have a competition that is going on.” Now I remember that contest. Yejun is preparing for that, and I don't want to involve him directly in my plan. I just need him to tell Penelope later.
“You don’t have to worry about that, Jia.” He said, and a delightful grin arose on his lips.
“I think about it.” I said and stood up. I received a text from my sister, and she told me to call her. I excuse myself to Yejun and leave the room.
I dialed my sister's international number. I feel so nervous since we have initially not been so close, and she's cold to me. I don't know how to communicate with her, but I think this is an opportunity to be near or just be typical sisters. I want to whine with her or talk to her just like normal siblings.
"Hello? Jia?.." She accepted my call, and my heart skipped a beat after hearing my sister's voice.
"Bella eonni... This is Jia." I said nervously without my voice cracking.
"Ohh, Yeah. How are you?" She asked me while her voice is more affectionate now.
"I'm fine... Eonni... Uhm. How about you?" I asked her awkwardly. I close my eyes and breathe. I scratched my head. I saw some students walking at the entrance. There's more time before the class will start, but I felt so rushed.
"I... I need your help, Bella eonni." I told her. I'm in the fourth-floor building, and the cold breeze is making my skin paler. I let out a sigh. It's been a few seconds, but I don't hear any response from the other line. I started to feel anxious.
"I-I'm sorry..." I unconsciously whisper. I felt the cold while thinking of the better thing to say aside from apologizing."It's been long since you asked me something, Jia. I'm glad you did... Asked me anything. I will help my little sister." My moist eyes started to spark after hearing my sister.
"Thank you." I whisper sincerely.I told my sister half of my plan and wanted to create crafts designs and sell them. She told me the basics about opening the business and how I need some professional help, and she recommended our employee, Mr. Choi. She also tells me to call her if she has questions. I agreed with her and ended the call. My heart is whole, and I feel overwhelmed by the emotions I only experience now. I regret ignoring my sister in the past. I'm glad it went well for now.
Since it's still early, I decided to go to the library. I went back to the classroom, but I didn't see Yejun inside. He must be in the faculty room asking for permission of absence for Penelope. I quickly get my bag and walk my way to the library.
End of chapter 6.
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 14"Pardon for intrusion." Penelope said when she entered my room."You can sit wherever you like." I smile and put my bag and coat in the corner. I also turn on the heater because my room is freezing.Penelope looks awkward and just sits in the corner of my room in a daze. The maid knocks on the door and I open it."Thank you." I said when she entered my room and put the tray of food on the small table. I waited for her to go out before I called for PenelopeI saw Bibimbap, Bulgogi, Chapchae, Chicken soup, Kimchi and rice. I got hungry after smelling the food.
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.<