Paper Rings

1

Sana's Point of View

   We had set off on our camping trip with the intention of fishing and having a great time, but Minari remained asleep inside the tent. I couldn't really blame my best friend for behaving this way. After all, college was just around the corner, signaling the end of carefree moments. However, it would be a shame if she missed out on all the fun. I let out a sigh. 

"Jihyo unnie, do you mind waking her up? I just can't bring myself to do it," I requested, but Jihyo unnie frowned at me.

"Hey, are you implying that I'm heartless?" I nodded, causing her to roll her eyes. I couldn't help but laugh at her. Meanwhile, she was busy grilling the fishes Nayeon had caught, with Momo playfully messing around near the river.

     Jihyo unnie took off her gloves and entered the tent to wake up Mina, and fortunately, she woke up almost immediately. "You need to enjoy this day, Mina. Don't fall asleep, help me grill some fish," Jihyo unnie urged. Mina simply nodded, still appearing groggy. Poor thing.

    As she joined us outside, I couldn't help but admire her beauty. She truly was stunning, with healthy hair that suited her well. Her fair complexion reminded me of porcelain, and there was an air of elegance about her. However, her eyes always seemed filled with melancholy.

"Sorry, guys. I was late because our practice ran overtime. And of course, I had to shower afterward," Jihyo explained, waving her hand at Momo, who was now successfully grilling fish with Mina. Jihyo unnie then hurriedly made her way back to the tent. I shook my head in amusement.

  Jihyo unnie returned to my side, holding some chips. "The kid still seems lifeless," she remarked, referring to Mina, who remained quiet most of the time.

"She's been like that since we were ten years old," I replied. "It's as if she's still deeply saddened by something."

"Do you remember what her mom said before?" Jihyo unnie asked, and I nodded in response. It was something about Minari's childhood best friend. "I hope she can find peace once college starts, and I wish she would open up to us about her struggles."

"I agree. It's been years. I want to see those eyes light up atleast."

Mina's Point of View

     As the day progressed, I found myself sitting on a log by the campfire, feeling disconnected from the lively atmosphere surrounding me. The crackling flames provided some comfort even if it looks dull and empty, it still has this warm glow contrasting with my own inner turmoil. Lost in my thoughts, I absentmindedly reached into my pocket and pulled out my earphones.

   Plugging them into my phone, I scrolled through my playlist, searching for a song that could match the melancholy that enveloped me. I found solace in the lyrics, letting the music transport me to a place where my own emotions could find refuge.

   Sana approached me, her voice breaking through the haze that surrounded my mind. "Mina, what song are you listening to?" she asked, her tone filled with genuine curiosity.