Wonderwall • ℍ𝕒𝕖𝕤𝕠𝕠

𝟙𝟟

When confronted with senseless drama, malicious criticisms, and misguided opinions, choosing to walk away is often the most empowering response. Reacting with anger only fuels their negativity. Yet, the overwhelming pain and anger brewing inside her were hard to ignore. Desperate for relief, she craved fresh air and a chance to distance herself from the pointless conflict that had transpired mere minutes ago.

Grabbing her coat from the entrance, she swiftly exited the building in search of a taxi. Avoiding everyone, including her father, she couldn't contain the tears streaming down her face like a relentless downpour. Clutching her coat close to her chest, each breath felt heavy and suffocating.

"Why do I deserve this ridicule? What have I done to be treated this way? And my heartless father...always finding ways to hurt me to the core! Why did he expose me to them...!?" Jisoo muttered to herself as she stood by the roadside. Her eyes grew heavy, the ache in her throat intensifying. A primal urge to scream and release the pent-up emotions consumed her, but she held it in, the pain festering in her chest.

"I want to scream, but I want my voice to vanish into the night!" she pondered, gripping her head tightly. The darkness of the night provided a cloak for her to blend in with her black dress, hiding her turmoil on the roadside. Yet, to her surprise, someone noticed her presence in the dimly lit area.

"Mrs. Kim! Mrs. Kim!" Haein's voice echoed as he hurried towards Jisoo. As soon as she registered his voice, her body tensed - he was the last person she wanted to encounter.

"No...I don't need your pity," Jisoo silently protested as she slowly turned to meet his gaze. As he approached, he attempted to decipher her expression; she appeared distant and puzzled by his sudden appearance.

"Are...are you okay? Do you nee-" he began, wanting to offer comfort and assistance, but she interrupted him.

"Why did you come? If my father sent you...just tell him I'm fine...and that I'll find my own way home. I don't need his help," she retorted before briskly walking away to hail a taxi. Haein stood there, perplexed by her abrupt dismissal.

"Your father...didn't send me to find you!" he clarified. Jisoo halted in her tracks and turned to face him.

"I'm sorry...did I offend you? If my mother's actions are the cause of this treatment, please forgive me. I offer my sincerest apologies," Haein expressed as he cautiously approached. Jisoo narrowed her eyes slightly, her head beginning to shake slowly in response.

"No...No...no...I'm not offended by you at all...you're not your mother," Jisoo murmured softly, wiping away her tears.

"I'm sorry! I apologize if I was impolite...I just don't feel well right now. That's why I'm leaving. Thank you for checking on me. But you needn't worry about me. I'll be okay," Jisoo reassured him, offering a small smile. Despite her efforts to lift her spirits, the pain in her throat persisted. Haein gazed at Jisoo with unwavering eyes, seeing a myriad of emotions reflected in hers. Despite the sadness, he found a strange yet captivating beauty in her eyes.

"Please...I can help you. Let me take you home," he insisted. Jisoo's eyes widened at his unexpected offer, but she was adamant about handling things on her own.

"Thank you, but-" she began, only to be cut off by his swift movements. In a matter of seconds, he closed the distance between them, catching her off guard. Her eyes grew even wider as she felt his hand gently touch hers.

"Please, it's the least I can do after what my mother did to you. Let me help," he whispered softly, leaving her slightly stunned. A mix of unfamiliar yet comforting emotions surged through her, causing a strange reaction in her body.