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Longing
By once_xxb
The group gathered around the table, but the usual chatter was absent. Their lunch, typically filled with laughter and lighthearted teasing, felt strangely quiet today. There were too many unspoken emotions lingering in the air, and the atmosphere was heavy with concern.
Chaeyoung, ever the one to try and lift the mood, suggested, "Who's up for clubbing tonight?"
"Me!" Momo exclaimed eagerly, followed by Nayeon and Dahyun, who joined in with enthusiastic nods.
"Yeah, count me in." Jeongyeon added, raising her iced coffee in agreement.
But Tzuyu's eyes narrowed slightly, her gaze falling on Jeongyeon with a hint of disapproval. The sudden shift in Jeongyeon's attitudeβso carefree and ready to go outβwas hard for Tzuyu to digest, given everything that had been going on lately.
"I'm sorry, Chaeng, but I'm not feeling well." Sana's quiet voice cut through the chatter.
Her pale complexion and the coughs that punctuated her words left no room for doubt: she was genuinely unwell. Yet, despite clearly being sick, Sana had still managed to show up for class, showing dedication to her studies.
Dahyun, noticing her condition, frowned. "Are you okay, Unnie? You look like you just walked out of a freezer."
"I'm fine, really." Sana reassured them, though her voice was strained, and another round of coughing followed.
"I'm taking you back to the dorm." Jihyo declared, her voice firm as she stood up and began gathering Sana's things. "You're obviously not okay. And I'm not going to take no for an answer."
Sana tried to protest, but Jihyo's resolve was unwavering, and soon they were leaving the cafeteria together.
Mina, who had been quietly observing, felt the familiar tug of concern in her chest. Sana was usually the healthiest among them, and seeing her so vulnerable made something in Mina ache. Though typically reserved, Mina had always kept a soft spot for Sana, her gentle nature and smile never failing to make Mina feel at ease.
As Mina watched Jihyo and Sana head out, Chaeyoung immediately started making plans for their evening. She casually mentioned that, since her car was being repaired, they'd be borrowing Mina's car for the night.
Mina, however, stood up suddenly, her eyes flashing with determination. "Actually, I'm not going." The words left her lips before she could fully process them. Grabbing her purse, she gave a brief, hurried excuse. "I have to go. Have fun, you guys."
The abruptness of her departure left her friends confused, but Mina's thoughts were already elsewhereβon Sana. She couldn't shake the feeling that something was off, that she needed to be there for her, even if she couldn't quite pinpoint why.
She drove around town, picking up supplies for Sana, but no matter how much she tried to distract herself, her thoughts kept drifting back to the pale girl back at the dorm. She couldn't leave her sideβnot when she was this sick.
As Mina arrived at the academy dorms, she ran into Jihyo just as she was heading down the stairs. They collided with a soft thud, Jihyo groaning and rubbing her forehead, while Mina, her eyes wide with apology, quickly helped her up.
"That hurt!" Jihyo exclaimed, though the tone was more playful than anything.
Mina didn't have time for any back-and-forth, her eyes already scanning for any sign of Sana. "I just want to make sure she's okay, that's all."
Jihyo's expression softened into a knowing smile. "Good. No need to knock. The door's open."
"How come you didn't lock it? Someone could get in." Mina began, but Jihyo interrupted her.
Mina's concern deepened, though she had to stop herself from chastising Jihyo for leaving the door unlocked. "You didn't lock it?" she asked, though Jihyo simply grinned.
"I knew you'd come." she replied, a hint of teasing in her voice.
Mina hurried inside, the silence of the empty unit greeting her. She tiptoed into the living room, her heart racing, and there she found Sanaβcurled up on the sofa, wrapped in a blanket.
"Sana?" Mina's voice was gentle, barely more than a whisper.
Sana's muffled voice floated from beneath the covers. "Go away."
Mina sighed softly, shaking her head. "I'm not going anywhere."
"Please leave me alone." Sana muttered weakly, trying to shuffle away from the couch, but her body was too weak.
Mina, however, was persistent. "Stop being stubborn. It's just me."
"I'm sick, and I don't want you to catch it." Sana said firmly, her voice hoarse from exhaustion.
Mina's heart ached as she kneeled beside her, her voice soft but filled with genuine concern. "You've been sick this whole time and didn't tell anyone?"
"I didn't want to be a burden." Sana replied quietly, her eyes barely meeting Mina's.
Mina gently touched Sana's arm, her voice unwavering. "You're not a burden, Sana. You never will be."
With a smile, Mina unloaded the bags of fruits and vegetables, along with ingredients for chicken soup and spicy ramen. "I've got everything for you. Let's get you feeling better."
Sana finally met her gaze, gratitude flickering in her eyes. Despite her condition, the sight of Mina's care brought warmth to her chest.
Mina moved quickly, pulling off her shoes and moving toward the kitchen. "Come on, let's get you to bed. Want something to eat?"
Sana shook her head, a faint smile appearing. "Not hungry. But I'd love some Minari cuddles."
Mina's heart fluttered at the request. Without a second thought, she wrapped her arms around Sana, gently pulling her into the warmth of the blankets. They settled in together, the tension between them melting away.
"How long have you been sick?" Mina asked softly, her fingers tracing soothing circles on Sana's back.
"It started three days ago... I didn't really think it was that bad at first." Sana answered wearily.
Mina sighed, disappointment flickering in her eyes. "I can't believe you didn't tell me."
"I'm sorry," Sana muttered, her voice filled with regret. "It was hard to talk to you... after everything."
Mina's eyes softened, guilt flashing across her face. "I'm sorry for being distant, Sana. I was going through some stuff, but that's no excuse. I should have been there."
"I just want you to know that you're never a burden to me. You're important to me. Always." Mina's voice was calm, and her words sincere.
Sana hummed, her eyes closing as she snuggled closer to Mina, comforted by the gentle, steady presence beside her. Despite the fever that raged in her body, the warmth of Mina's embrace made her feel safe, like the world outside didn't matter anymore.
====
Sana's fever had finally gone down by the evening of the next day, bringing a deep sense of relief to both her and Mina. After days of caring for Sana, who had been burning with fever, Mina was exhausted but content. She hadn't thought about herself much these past few days. Her focus had been entirely on Sanaβmaking sure she stayed hydrated, comfortable, and calm. Now that Sana was resting, her fever gone, Mina finally had a chance to think about her own needs.
She hadn't had the time to take a shower in what felt like forever. Her hair was messy, and her clothes were a little too worn from the long hours of caring for her sick best friend. As she looked at Sana, who was fast asleep on the couch, Mina felt a wave of relief. She had pulled through, and now it was time for her to relax.
Mina undressed slowly, feeling the weight of her exhaustion settle into her bones. The day had been long, filled with taking care of things that didn't leave room for anything else. She stepped into the bathroom, the coolness of the tiles on her feet a welcome sensation. The sound of water running from the showerhead was calming. The steam surrounding her like a soft cloud. She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the water wash over her.
But that little moment didn't last long. The click of the door to the bathroom broke through her peace. Mina turned, surprised, and found Sana standing in the doorway, a determined look on her face.
Mina blinked, unsure if she was imagining things, but there Sana was, looking at her with an intensity she hadn't expected. "Sana, what are youβ"
"Turn around." Sana said, her voice soft yet firm. There was a calm authority in her words that made Mina pause. Something about it sent a wave of excitement rushing through her.
Mina swallowed hard, her heart suddenly racing. She did as Sana asked, turning her back to her. She wasn't sure what was about to happen, but she didn't mind. A part of her was eager for something more, something different, something that would shift the atmosphere between them.
Sana moved closer, the sound of her steps muffled by the sound of running water. Without warning, Sana's body pressed up against Mina's back, the heat from their skin melding together. Mina's breath hitched in her throat as she felt Sana's lips brush against the side of her neck, sending a wave of shivers down her spine.
Mina turned her head slightly, eyes wide as her voice trembled. "We've never done this before... in the shower, I mean." She could barely speak, her breath catching with the sensation of Sana's lips against her skin.
"I know." Sana murmured, her lips still close to Mina's ear, sending tiny sparks through her. Her hands gently traced over Mina's shoulders, the warmth of her touch making Mina's pulse quicken. "But do you want me to stop?"
The question, though soft, carried an intensity that sent a shiver through Mina, igniting a fire within her that she hadn't felt in far too long. No, she didn't want Sana to stop. In fact, she never wanted her to stop.
"No." Mina whispered, her voice thick with longing. "Don't stop."
Sana's hands moved to Mina's sides, her fingers grazing over her skin. There was something so tender about the way she touched her, but also so confident. As if she knew exactly what Mina needed, what they both needed. Mina felt herself melt into the touch, the heat between them growing with each passing second.
Sana's lips returned to Mina's neck, her breath warm against her skin as she kissed a trail down towards her shoulder. Mina's head tilted back slightly, her eyes closing as she let herself be lost in the sensations, the feel of Sana's lips and hands everywhere. Her body responded without thinking, wanting more, needing more.
"Sana..." Mina breathed, barely able to get the words out.
"I'm here." Sana whispered back, her voice low and soothing. "I'm not going anywhere."
With a playful grin, Sana continued to explore Mina's body, her movements growing bolder and more purposeful with every moment. Mina let herself completely immerse in the pleasure of Sana's touch.
"You're so beautiful, Sana..." Mina whispered, her voice full of admiration.
Sana's smirk grew as she drew Mina closer to the edge, each touch sending waves of pleasure through her. The connection between them was electric, a powerful blend of desire and affection that left them both breathless.
"Did you feel that?" Mina whispered, her breath catching as she nipped at Sana's neck, pulling her even closer until their bodies were pressed tightly together.
Sana paused, her lips lingering against Mina's skin, her breath warm on her neck as she met her gaze. "I feel everything." she murmured, her eyes locking with Mina's. "I've missed this. I've missed you."
A soft smile curled on Mina's lips, her eyes full of tenderness as she replied, "I've missed you, too." She gently cupped Sana's face, savoring the closeness, feeling as if time had slowed, allowing them to fully embrace the moment they'd both longed for. She didn't need to say more. Everything she felt for Sana was in the way she held her, in the way they moved together, perfectly in sync.
As the intensity continued to build, their cries blending with the sound of the water falling, it was impossible to separate the physical from the emotional. It was as though their hearts and bodies were speaking the same language, one that only they understood.
Finally, as the tension between them reached its peak, their bodies slowed, both of them breathing heavily, hearts still racing. The water continued to pour down over them, soft and steady, as if it, too, was sharing in the moment.
Mina's voice was soft as she leaned her head against Sana's shoulder, her hand gently resting on her chest. "That was..." She couldn't find the words at first, but then she whispered, "That was amazing."
Sana's chuckle was quiet, her voice teasing but gentle. "I've missed this. We haven't had a moment like this since summer." She pulled Mina closer, her hands resting on her back, feeling the rise and fall of Mina's breath.
Mina smiled, her face against Sana's skin. "We should do this more often."
Sana kissed the top of her head. "Definitely."
As they finished their shower, the air between them felt different, lighter. They dried off together, the simple act of helping each other feeling more intimate than ever. When they finally settled into bed, Mina curled up next to Sana, feeling the comforting warmth of her body and the steady of her heartbeat.
====
Last Year's Summer | Minatozaki Private Beach House | L.A.
The summer sun hung lazily in the sky, bathing the Minatozaki family's private beach house in a soft, golden light. Situated far from the city, the house offered an escape where all the stresses of life seemed to vanish with each gentle ocean breeze. The soothing rhythm of the waves brushing against the shore created the perfect melody that filled the air, wrapping them in its calming embrace.
Mina and Sana had come here to find some peace, to escape their usual whirlwind of thoughts and feelings. The stillness of the place felt almost surreal, as if the world had paused just for them.
As the night settled in, they sat together on the porch, their feet sinking into the soft sand as they gazed out at the dark expanse of the ocean. The evening warmth surrounded them, but it couldn't ease the tension between them. The silence was thick, both unsure of how to express the emotions they were feeling.
Mina broke the silence first, her voice laced with uncertainty. "What are we, Sana?"
Sana glanced at Mina, her eyes widening in surprise, as if the question had taken her by surprise. It was something that had been lingering in the air for days, maybe even months, but neither of them had found the courage to say it out loud. The passion of their recent kiss only made it harder to ignore the emotions they had both been trying so hard to keep hidden.
"We're... friends?" Sana's voice wavered, as if she was trying to reassure herself just as much as she was trying to reassure Mina.
Mina's heart sank at Sana's words, a sharp pang of disappointment echoing in her chest. It wasn't what she had been hoping for. She had dreamed of something more, something that would make all their moments feel deeper, more real, and more solidβsomething that would make her feelings for Sana feel justified. She wanted to believe that what they shared was more than just fleeting moments, that there could be something lasting between them.
"Friends don't do this kind of... stuff." Mina's voice wavered as she recalled the heat of their kiss, the closeness that still lingered between them. She could still feel Sana's lips against her neck, the sensation of Sana's touch that was now branded into her memory.
Sana let out a shaky breath, her gaze dropping to the sand as she tried to gather her thoughts. "You're the one who only wants this to be a benefit thing, remember?" she said, her words tinged with frustration.
Mina's eyes widened, the weight of the accusation hanging heavy between them. Was that how Sana saw it? Did she really believe that was all Mina wanted?
The question hung in the air, their gazes locking once more. Mina felt torn, unsure of what to say next. She had never felt so exposed, but at the same time, she couldn't ignore the intense pull she felt toward Sana. It was undeniable, and no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't push it away.
"Look, we can make this work." Mina said, her voice steady despite the storm of emotions inside her. "Let's not let this ruin the rest of our summer. It's pretty clear now that we both want the same thing."
Sana nodded, her expression softening. There was a moment of unspoken understanding between them, a quiet agreement that seemed to fill the space. "Let's enjoy the rest of our vacation. We can forget about everything else for a while... it's just us." The words felt natural, like they were always meant to be said.
Sana shifted closer, her hand gently resting on Mina's thigh as she leaned in, her lips grazing the delicate skin of Mina's neck. "Can I?" she asked, her voice low, but the question was clear. She was asking for permission to take things further.
Mina's heart fluttered at the tenderness in Sana's voice. It was so unlike the fiery passion they had shared earlier, but it was just as intense in its own way. "Yes." Mina whispered, her breath hitching as she nervously bit her lip. She was uncertain, but the desire that had been building between them was undeniable.
Sana wasted no time, her hands gently pulling at the fabric of Mina's clothes. Each movement was deliberate, but it was also gentleβlike she was taking her time to make sure Mina was comfortable, that she was okay with everything that was happening. The feeling of her skin being exposed to the warm air, the sensation of Sana's touch, all of it was overwhelming.
Mina's breath quickened as Sana's lips trailed down her neck, each kiss sending a wave of heat through her.
"I don't want to argue." Sana murmured, her voice low. Her hands explored Mina's body, sending shivers of pleasure through her.
Mina nodded, barely able to catch her breath. She could see the desire in Sana's eyes, the raw longing that mirrored her own. It was thereβunspoken but undeniable. "Obviously, you want me, and obviously, I want you." she admitted, her voice trembling with a mix of passion and vulnerability.
The slow rhythm of their interaction shifted as the intensity grew. Sana's hands roamed more urgently now, her fingers trailing over Mina's skin, leaving a trail of heat in their wake.
"Sana..." Mina's chest rose and fell rapidly with each pleasure, her breath coming in short gasps as she surrendered to the overwhelming sensations.
As their kisses deepened, the world around them seemed to fade. There was only the feeling of their bodies pressed together, the heat between them growing with every passing second. And then, just as quickly, it all came crashing down, and they both found themselves gasping for air, their bodies trembling from the intensity.
Sana's eyes fluttered open as they reached the peak, her breath shallow and her voice strained. "Mina." she whispered, as if the reality of what had just unfolded was starting to settle in.
Mina's hands were gentle, tenderly brushing through Sana's hair, offering her a quiet reassurance. "It's okay, Satang." she murmured, her voice soft and calming, wrapping Sana in the warmth of her words. "It's okay."
Sana's body relaxed, her head resting against Mina's chest as they both caught their breath. But there was still a lingering tension, a question neither of them had the courage to ask. Sana's voice broke through the silence, full of emotion. "Mina, I'm sorry if it was too much. You're... you're too hot, and I've been thinking about you all day."
Mina's heart ached at Sana's words, and she reached up to gently lift her chin, her thumb brushing over her soft skin. "Don't apologize, Sana." she whispered. "You're not too much. You're perfect just the way you are."
Sana's eyes softened with relief, a small smile tugging at her lips. It was a fragile moment, filled with so many unspoken things, but it felt realβfelt honest. Mina kissed her forehead gently, the gesture soft and full of affection.
"And it was beautiful." Mina added, her voice barely above a whisper, the words coming from the deepest part of her heart.
Sana smiled, her lips curling into a more genuine smile as she leaned in and kissed Mina softly. The kiss was different this timeβtender, full of promise. When they pulled away, Mina couldn't help but tease her. "Do any of your other 'friends' make you do this?"
Sana's laugh filled the space between them, the sound rich with affection and amusement. "No, only you." she replied, her voice playful yet sincere.
The laughter died down, but neither of them moved. They stayed wrapped in each other's arms, the moment stretching out. Beneath the surface, Mina couldn't shake the doubt that clouded her thoughts. She knew their relationship was evolving, becoming something more than what it had been, something they both longed for but hesitated to fully embrace. She could feel the weight of her thoughts pressing down on her, but she didn't want to dwell on the uncertainty of their future. For now, she was content.
As the evening unfolded, they stayed wrapped in each other's arms, Mina realized she had found a sense of belonging in Sana's embrace, a feeling of homeβand she wouldn't have it any other way.
====
The academy halls were quieter than usual as Sana made her way through them, her thoughts drifting back to the peaceful laps she'd just completed in the pool. She was mentally gearing up for the rest of the day, trying to figure out what to wear next and wondering what her upcoming classes would bring.
"Hey, Sana, can we talk?"
Sana immediately turned toward the voice, and there, standing confidently in front of her, was Mark Lee. He was a well-known figure at the academy, recognized for his confidence and disciplined approach to academics. As a member of the VIP student clique, he had a certain air about him.
"Uh, sure." Sana's response was cautious, her unease growing. She had no idea what Mark wanted but had a sinking feeling it was about to be something that would get under her skin.
Mark didn't hesitate to get straight to the point. "It's about Mina. Do you think she'd be interested in me? I want to ask her out."
Sana's eyes narrowed at his words, irritation bubbling up from the pit of her stomach. It wasn't the first time someone had asked about Mina, but something about Mark's approach rubbed her the wrong way. His nonchalance, like Mina was some sort of prize to be won, made her blood boil.
"As far as I know, she's not interested in dating anyone right now." she said, a sharp edge to her tone. "She's focusing on her studies."
Mark's expression faltered for a second, before his confidence returned. "Well, tell me what she's into, and maybe I'll have a chance."
Sana's patience snapped, and she cut him off. "Like I said, she's not interested. And she's not some prize to be won. She's my best friend, and I won't let someone like you treat her like an object."
Mark looked taken aback by the intensity of her words, his face momentarily frozen in shock. But before he could speak again, Sana turned her back on him and walked away, her steps purposeful, her frustration still simmering inside her.
Later, in more comfortable clothes, Sana hoped the change in attire would help ease the lingering frustration from her encounter with Mark. But as she walked down the halls, her mind was still occupied, the unease lingering. Moments like these reminded her just how much she needed to protect her best friend from unwanted attention.
"Sana!" a familiar voice broke through her thoughts, and she turned to see Mina approaching with that warm smile that always seemed to put her at ease.
"Did you go swimming?" Mina asked, her eyes filled with concern.
"Yeah, I just finished my laps." Sana confirmed with a nod, trying to shake off the tension.
"What's wrong? You seem troubled." Mina said as she studied Sana's expression.
Sana hesitated before deciding to share what had happened. "Nothing much. Just had a chat with Mark about you."
"Me?" Mina's voice lifted in surprise. "What about me?"
Sana gave a casual shrug. "Yeah, had to give him the classic rejection speech."
Mina's lips curled into a playful smile. "Does it bother you? I mean, you don't have to do it if you don't want to."
Sana shook her head. "No, it's fine. I actually kind of enjoy shutting down guys for you. And besides, it spares you from having to deal with their advances."
Sana shook her head with a small grin. "No, it's fine. I actually kind of enjoy shutting down guys for you. And besides, it spares you from having to deal with their advances."
Mina nudged her playfully, her voice teasing. "Thank you. So, are you saying you're my personal bodyguard now?"
Sana laughed, her heart lighter now that she was with Mina. "Maybe, but only for you."
They walked side by side, arms linked as they continued down the hall. Sana realized that no matter what the world threw at themβwhether it was unwanted attention or anything elseβshe would always stand by Mina's side, ready to protect her, defend her, and support her.
====
Wentworth Academy | Riding Grounds
Nayeon felt a sense of calm sweep over her as she rode her horse across the spacious riding fields of the academy. The rhythmic movement of the horse beneath her, along with the pleasant air, allowed her to breathe, to think, and to momentarily forget the weight of everything else.
Lost in the moment, Nayeon's focus wavered momentarily, causing her to almost lose her balance on the saddle. It was then that her phone rang loudly, shattering the peaceful atmosphere. Startled, she yanked the reins and brought the horse to a halt, fumbling with the phone before answering with a deep sigh.
"Hello, this is Nayeon speaking." Her voice had a sharp edge to it, a clear signal that she wasn't thrilled by the interruption.
"Nayeon, sweetie, it's me." came the voice on the other end of the line, dripping with a saccharine sweetness that made Nayeon's stomach turn.
Nayeon immediately recognized the voiceβher stepmother, a woman who had always felt more like an outsider than a family member. The last person she wanted to hear from.
"What do you want?" she replied coldly, her patience already wearing thin.
"Come on, is that how you talk to your mother?" Her stepmother's voice was mocking, as though she were trying to bait Nayeon into a confrontation.
"I'm not your daughter, and you're not my mother." Nayeon shot back, her tone firm and unapologetic. She would never refer to this woman as anything more than her stepmother.
"Whatever, you devious brat, your father wants us to bond this weekend, so how about we go shopping or get our nails done?" The suggestion came with an insincerity that was evident, as though her stepmother were trying to manipulate her into spending time together.
Nayeon's teeth clenched, and she was quick to dismiss the idea. "I can't, I have plans this weekend." she said, making it clear she had no intention of spending time with the woman who had caused her so much irritation over the years.
"Really? What kind of plans?" Her stepmother persisted, clearly fishing for information she had no right to.
"It's none of your business. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go." Nayeon said, ending the call abruptly before her stepmother could push any further.
As the call ended, Nayeon let out a frustrated sigh, her mind still spinning from the intrusion. How had her stepmother even gotten her number in the first place? The constant boundary-pushing was draining.
As she mulled over the unwelcome intrusion, Nayeon was approached by her friend Jeongyeon, who had a knack for lightening the mood with her cheerful demeanor.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice. "It's too early to see your grumpy face." Jeongyeon's playful tone cut through Nayeon's frustration, and she turned to see her friend approaching with her usual grin.
Nayeon couldn't suppress the faintest hint of a smile at Jeongyeon's antics. The distraction was just what she needed.
"That bitch." Nayeon muttered under her breath, her frustration spilling over as she recounted the conversation with her stepmother.
Jeongyeon listened intently, her expression sympathetic as Nayeon vented. "Well, at least you handled it like a pro." Jeongyeon offered, trying to ease the tension.
Nayeon chuckled wryly, the humor helping to diffuse some of the anger. "Thanks. I just wish she would leave me alone."
Jeongyeon gave her a comforting pat on the shoulder. "Don't worry, we'll figure something out. But for now, let's focus on enjoying the rest of the day."
Nayeon nodded in agreement, her frustration slowly fading as she allowed herself to shift focus. Jeongyeon's presence was grounding, a reminder that she had people in her corner. Together, they walked toward the stables, ready to prepare for the upcoming swimming competition. Nayeon pushed her worries aside, choosing to embrace the support of her friends.
====
The atmosphere at Wentworth Academy's natatorium was charged with energy, especially for the Elite members who sat in the front row, their excitement practically radiating as the annual swimming competition kicked off. Nayeon sat between Jeongyeon and Tzuyu, beamed with pride, holding a handmade banner adorned with hearts and messages of support. Her grin was so bright it could've lit up the whole stadium.
Jeongyeon, ever the tease, couldn't help but laugh at Nayeon's lovestruck expression. "Wow, I never expected to see you like this." she quipped, nudging Tzuyu, who just shook her head with an amused smile.
Nayeon blushed, feeling a little self-conscious. "I can't help it." she admitted sheepishly, her voice soft with affection. "Jihyo just has that effect on me."
Meanwhile, across the room, Mina sat quietly with Dahyun, her eyes constantly scanning the crowd for a glimpse of Sana. Her heart fluttered every time she saw her, captivated by the effortless beauty and confidence Sana exuded. But there was also a longing in Mina's heart. She couldn't cheer as openly as she wanted, not without risking drawing attention.
"Minatozaki Sana is so dreamy." a girl from the opposite team remarked, unknowingly reflecting Mina's own thoughts.
Dahyun, sitting beside Mina, noticed the faint blush creeping onto her friend's face and nudged her gently. "Don't worry, Mina Unnie, she's going to do amazing." Dahyun reassured, her smile warm and calming.
"It's not about that." Mina confessed softly, her voice betraying the conflict inside. "I just wish I could cheer for her without any restrictions."
Dahyun understood immediately. She placed a comforting hand on Mina's shoulder. "Well, you can always show your support later, in private." she said with a knowing smile, causing Mina to look at her in confusion.
Meanwhile, the tension in the bleachers was rising as the opposing teamβsome of the boys in particularβmade crude comments about the female competitors. Jihyo, in particular, was the target of their vile comments. Nayeon's blood boiled as she heard them, and when they crossed a line with their insults, she couldn't keep quiet any longer.
"Why don't you just shut up?" Nayeon snapped, her voice cold and sharp, cutting through the air. The jocks turned to look at her, surprised by the confrontation.
But their comments only got worse. One of them, a particularly brazen jock, threw in, "Why don't you turn your sweet little ass around and mind your own business?"
That was it. Nayeon's rage boiled over. Her response was laced with venom as she grinned dangerously. "And if you say another disgusting word, I'll show you how I manage my business."
The jock laughed it off, his grin wide and ignorant. "My bad, I didn't realize she was yours."
Nayeon, not about to let the disrespect slide, scoffed and sat back down. But just as things seemed to calm, the jock muttered something even worse.
"I'm sure you two look good in bed, can I watch?"
"THAT'S IT."
Before anyone could stop her, Nayeon lunged forward, her fist colliding with the jock's face with a sickening crack. The sound of his nose breaking was followed by a loud groan of pain. His eyes went wide as he staggered back, clutching his nose.
The rest of the bleachers went silent as Nayeon calmly sat back down, her gaze icy and unwavering. She glanced at the coach, who had come over after the commotion, and smiled innocently. "No problem here, sir." she said, though her eyes betrayed her simmering anger.
Jeongyeon was quick to check on Nayeon's hand, but she stubbornly insisted on staying to watch the competition. "No, I came here to watch my mermaid swim, and that's exactly what I'm going to do."
As the competition continued, Nayeon kept her focus on Jihyo, who, along with Sana, dove gracefully into the water. The synchronized movements of the two competitors were mesmerizing, and the cheers of their friends echoed through the natatorium when they both emerged victorious. Nayeon couldn't contain her pride, her heart swelling with admiration.
Mina couldn't contain her excitement, her voice rising above the crowd as she cheered for Sana. Her joy was infectious, and soon, everyone around them was caught up in the celebration, laughter, cheers, and celebrating the victories.
After the competition, Nayeon wasted no time. She approached Jihyo, a beaming smile on her face. Without a second thought, she pulled Jihyo into a tight hug, her heart racing with joy. "We're so proud of you!" Nayeon exclaimed.
Jihyo laughed, her arms looping around Nayeon's neck in a grateful hug. "Thanks, guys. I could hear your screams even while I was in the water." she said, her smile as radiant as the victory itself.
As they made their way out of the natatorium, Dahyun couldn't resist teasing Nayeon. "Your girl is a badass, Jihyo Unnie." she chuckled, glancing at Nayeon.
Nayeon winced as she subconsciously held her injured hand, trying to mask the discomfort.
"What's wrong?" Jihyo asked, her voice filled with concern.
"It's nothing." Nayeon quickly dismissed.
But Chaeyoung wasn't convinced. "That nasty bone crack on her fist is probably still bothering her!" she exclaimed, drawing a scolding glance from Nayeon.
"What? It's true?" Chaeyoung teased.
As they said their goodbyes and left the natatorium, Nayeon took a deep breath, gathering her courage for what she was about to ask. She turned to Jihyo, her nerves palpable but determination shining through as she finally spoke the question that had been on her mind.
"Would you mind if I asked you out on a date right now?"
Jihyo's answer came in the form of a radiant smile, one that made Nayeon's heart flutter. "I'd love to." Her words were warm, and her grin widened, making it clear that she was just as eager to spend time with Nayeon.
As they walked side by side, their fingers brushing together now and then, Jihyo couldn't help but steal a glance at the group of boys from the opposing team, still recovering from the shock of Nayeon's swift punch. Despite the chaos around them, a sense of pride swelled inside Jihyo. She couldn't help but notice Nayeon's hand, still throbbing from the hit, and the gesture of protection that had driven her to defend Jihyo.
In that moment, everything clicked for Jihyo. She realized how deeply Nayeon cared for her, how far she was willing to go to keep her safe. It was a realization that filled Jihyo's chest with warmth and gratitude. She looked at Nayeon with a newfound respect, her feelings deepening as the weight of the moment settled in.