In a secluded alcove of the university, away from prying eyes and the cacophony of farewell celebrations, Ji-hoon and So-yeon found solace. The gentle hum of distant conversations was overshadowed by the palpable emotion between them.
So-yeon's usually poised demeanour had given way to vulnerability. As she clung to Ji-hoon, it was evident how much she dreaded the impending separation.
Ji-hoon: (voice tinged with emotion) "Tomorrow, as I step into Alliance University, the vastness of the journey ahead feels overwhelming without you by my side, So-yeon."
So-yeon:(teary-eyed, holding onto him tighter) "It's as if the sands of time are slipping through our fingers, Ji-hoon. The thought of our worlds apart is a reality I'm struggling to accept."
Ji-hoon:(gently stroking So-yeon's hair) "Every moment, every memory we've crafted together is etched in my heart. How do I move forward without you being just a heartbeat away?"
So-yeon:(looking up, her eyes searching his) "Promise me, Ji-hoon. Promise me you'll bridge this distance with your words, your stories, and your love."
Ji-hoon:(smiling through his own tears) "So-yeon, every sunset, every dawn, I'll share with you. But oh, how I'll miss feeling your warmth beside me."
Their intimate bubble was in stark contrast to the growing tension between Joon-ho. and Min-joo. As miles stretched between them, misunderstandings and external influences began to sow seeds of doubt.
Joon-ho., in an attempt to reconnect, initiated a video call, hoping to bridge the chasm that seemed to widen with each passing day.
Joon-ho:(while the call is connecting) "Since coming to Simorea, we haven't had a proper conversation. I can't blame you or my parents, but the ongoing war between Nimorea and Simorea is preventing any resolution. I shouldn't mix my love life with politics. I hope Min-joo is enjoying her life at Alliance University."
Joon-ho: (Call gets connected) "Hey, Min-joo. Regarding our argument last night, I feel like we've been distant lately. Wait a second, why are you with someone else? What's going on?"
Min-joo: (feigning innocence) "Oh, Hii Joon-ho. Hey Hyun-woo come here meet my ex, who is he, it's nothing. I was exploring other options, like you suggested. You know how it is, right?"
Joon-ho: "It was just in the heat of the moment. You know I didn't mean those words. You told me to find someone else, but how can you forget our three-year relationship so quickly and start a new one within hours?"
Hyun-woo:"Min-joo, Joon-ho. is just jealous. He can't stand to see you succeed in life. He's stuck with a patriarchal mindset."
Joon-ho:"Do not come between me and Min-joo, you intrusive person."
Hyun-woo:"But I did, and she enjoyed it."
Min-joo:"Don't involve a stranger in our affairs, Hyun-woo." (She kisses him) "Joon-ho., what we shared is over. Just go to hell."
(Ends the call)
Min-joo:"Hyun-woo, maybe you're right. Maybe I need something more."
Hyun-woo:"Was I not good in bed?"
Min-joo: "No, silly, you're really good at it. But I want someone to explore a deeper connection with, you know?"
Hyun-woo:"Maybe you're right. But promise me you'll still make time for our physical needs."
Min-joo:"Yes, I will. I have my own requirements too. Why don't I try on Alex, Ansh, or Aarav?"
Hyun-woo:"Alex is committed to Emily, Ansh is rumoured to be trying on Keya, and Aarav is always with his roommate."
Min-joo:"I am not interested in dating someone who does not have time for me."
As Ji-hoon was engrossed in a deep conversation with So-yeon, pacing near university gate no. 4, he was oblivious to the figure of Min-joo, who had been watching from a distance. As the call with So-yeon concluded, the immediate surroundings were filled with an eerie silence, disrupted only by the soft echo of footsteps approaching him.
Ji-hoon: "So-yeon, these are complicated times. I don't want to be a burden."
So-yeon:"Ji-hoon, remember we promised to face challenges together. Please share what's on your mind."
Ji-hoon:"Perhaps I need some space to think."
So-yeon: (affectionately) "You know I'll always be here when you're ready."
As the call ended, Min-joo emerged from the shadows, her gaze fixed on Ji-hoon.
Min-joo:"You know, Ji-hoon, long-distance relationships? They're more challenging than people realize."
Ji-hoon:(taken aback) "Min-joo? How long have you been listening?"
Min-joo:(smirking) "Long enough. And from what I gathered; you seem to be having doubts."
Ji-hoon: (regaining his composure)"So-yeon and I have a bond that transcends distance. We believe in it."
Min-joo: (mockingly) "You can believe all you want, but reality has a way of intervening. I've been there."
Ji-hoon:"Well, thanks for your input, but we're committed."
Min-joo: (leaning closer) "Commitment won't stop you from feeling lonely. Maybe you need some company."
Ji-hoon:"I appreciate the offer, but I'm committed to So-yeon."
Min-joo:"Are you sure? Because it seems like you could use a distraction."
Ji-hoon: (firmly) "I know what I want, Min-joo, and it's not what you're offering."
Min-joo:(frustrated) "You're missing out, Ji-hoon. Opportunities don't last forever."
Ji-hoon:"Some opportunities aren't worth seizing if they jeopardize what truly matters."
Min-joo's advances, attempts to seduce Ji-hoon.
Min-joo: (attempting to kiss Ji-hoon, lowering her voice) "You are quite attractive, you know. Long-distance relationships are tough, aren't they? Especially when there are so many tempting distractions around."
Ji-hoon:(Frowning) "I'm committed to my relationship. It's important to me."
Min-joo:(Moving even closer, attempting to be more enticing) "But think about all the fun you're missing out on here, Ji-hoon. We could have some unforgettable moments together."
Ji-hoon:(Drawing back) "Min-joo, I appreciate your directness, but I'm not interested in jeopardizing what I have with someone I care deeply about."
Min-joo:(Growing frustrated) "You know, I thought you might be more adventurous, more willing to explore what's right in front of you."
Ji-hoon:(Standing up, maintaining his composure) "I value my commitments, Min-joo. It's essential to respect boundaries and make choices based on integrity."
Min-joo:(Sighing) "Fine, Ji-hoon. Your loss. But remember, opportunities like this don't come often, But Ji-hoon, life's too short to be tied down by commitments. Why not seize the moment and have a little fun?"
Ji-hoon:(feeling the pull of Min-joo's intensity) "You make a tempting offer, Min-joo. Maybe there's room for a little adventure."
Min-joo, sensing an opening, moved even closer, her fingers gently tracing a path on Ji-hoon's arm.
Min-joo:"Imagine the excitement, the thrill of something new and unexpected. No strings attached."
Ji-hoon: (feeling the weight of his long-distance relationship) "A little fun wouldn't hurt, right? After all, I'm far from home, exploring new horizons."
Min-joo:(smiling mischievously) "That's the spirit, Ji-hoon. Let's forget about commitments and live in the moment."
Ji-hoon, caught up in the allure of Min-joo's advances and the promise of adventure, found himself leaning in, ready to embrace the unexpected passion that lay before him.
Min-joo:(gently pushing him back) "Ji-hoon, wait."
Ji-hoon: (looking slightly bewildered, his heart racing) "What's wrong?"
Min-joo:(taking a deep breath, her eyes searching his) "This isn't right. We can't let a moment of vulnerability lead us down a path we'll regret."
Ji-hoon:(pausing, the weight of his emotions evident) "But it felt... I don't know, exhilarating?"
Min-joo:"It might feel that way now, but (shouted), I am not that kind of person who would do it for money.
Min-joo runs towards Hyun-woo.
Hyun-woo:(laughing) "I did not expect you to ruin his life like this."
Min-joo:"Forget about him; he's not my type, Let's find someone else."
"As days passed on the university campus, whispers and rumours began to circulate about Ji-hoon and Min-joo's encounter. The university, with its intricate web of gossipmongers and the ever-present rumour mill, wasted no time in turning a fleeting moment into a full-blown scandal. Groups of students exchanged hushed conversations in cafeterias, libraries, and dormitories.
"Did you hear about what happened with Ji-hoon and Min-joo?"
"I heard Ji-hoon asked to bang Min-joo for money and she rejected him."
"I never expected this from Ji-hoon."
"It's just how patriarchal society objectified us; can blame him."
Amidst the sea of rumours, Ji-hoon noticed a change in how some of his peers interacted with him. Whispers followed him down hallways, and he could feel the weight of judgmental eyes during lectures.
Ji-hoon:(sounding weary) "So-yeon, I feel like everything's spiralling out of control here. Every time I try to explain myself or set things straight, it feels like I'm sinking deeper."
So-yeon:(with a hint of frustration) "I know, Ji-hoon. I hear things from my end too. It's hard being so far away and feeling so powerless."
Ji-hoon:"I miss the times when things were simple between us. I hate how these rumors have cast a shadow over everything."
So-yeon:"Me too. But we can't ignore them, Ji-hoon. I'm trying my best to trust you, but it's challenging when I'm so far away. Sometimes, I feel like I'm in the dark, and I don't know what to believe."
Ji-hoon:"I understand, So-yeon. But I need you to know that I'm trying my best to navigate through this. It's not easy for me either."
So-yeon:"I know you are, and it's just... it feels like we're drifting apart. I hate feeling this way, but I can't help it."
Ji-hoon:"Do you think... maybe it would help if we took a break? Not because I want to, but maybe it'll give us both some clarity."
So-yeon:(pausing) "A break? I don't know, Ji-hoon. I love you, but I'm so confused right now."
Ji-hoon:"I love you too, So-yeon. That's why I'm even suggesting it. Maybe some time apart will help us realize what we truly want."
So-yeon:(sighing) "This isn't how I imagined our relationship would be. But maybe you're right. Maybe we do need some time."
Ji-hoon:"Whatever happens, So-yeon, know that my feelings for you are genuine. I hope we can find our way back to each other, whether it's as a couple or as individuals."
So-yeon:"I hope so too, Ji-hoon. Let's take some time to think, okay? And promise me, whatever happens, we'll always be honest with each other."
Ji-hoon:"Promise."
Ji-hoon couldn't help himself and texted So-yeon: (crying) "I cannot take it anymore; I'm facing temptations of my own, but I won't give in. I love you too much.
So-yeon makes a life-changing decision. So-yeon entered the Alliance University and saw Ji-hoon, crying in the corner.
So-yeon: (puts hand on the shoulder) "Ji-hoon, I can't bear to see you suffer."
Ji-hoon, overwhelmed by emotions, held So-yeon tightly, feeling her warmth and presence wash away the bitterness of the past few days. The weight that had been pressing down on him seemed to lift, if only slightly, with So-yeon by his side.
Ji-hoon:"So-yeon, you are here (tears falling), just having you here feels like a balm to my soul. I can't believe you're actually here."
So-yeon:(smiling through her tears) "I couldn't stay away, Ji-hoon. Every moment apart felt like an eternity. I had to come."
Ji-hoon:"But what about everything you left behind? Your studies, your life?"
So-yeon:"Sometimes, Ji-hoon, you realize that some things are more important than the plans we make. Being with you, standing by your side during these trying times, is what matters most to me right now."
As they walked through the campus together, students who had been whispering and gossiping stopped and stared. But So-yeon held her head high, not allowing the judgmental glances to affect her.
Ji-hoon:"So-yeon, I know we have a lot to talk about. I've missed you so much."
So-yeon:"We have all the time in the world now, Ji-hoon. Let's focus on rebuilding our trust and understanding."
They found a secluded spot under a tree, a place where they had shared many memories before. Sitting down, they began to talk, laying bare their feelings, fears, and hopes for the future.
Ji-hoon:"I won't lie, So-yeon. The rumours, the temptations, everything was tearing me apart. But knowing you're here gives me strength."
So-yeon:"We'll face this together, Ji-hoon. We'll confront the rumours, rebuild our trust, and emerge stronger than ever."
Ji-hoon:"I've realized that our love is worth fighting for, So-yeon. No matter what challenges come our way, I want to face them with you by my side."
So-yeon:"And I want nothing more than to stand beside you, Ji-hoon. We'll take each day as it comes, supporting and loving each other, I have to go now, if you ever need me, just tell me, I know you have had so much, but at least you can tell me anything not as lover but as a friend, I and you have all rights to support each other, so just smile before I leave"
Ji-hoon:(smiles) "Thank you so much, So-yeon, I am really fortunate to have you, it would have been great if you could be here forever with me."
So-yeon:(sad)"I also want that but my family is not financially capable to afford it"
Ji-hoon: "Then I should marry you right here and now."
So-yeon: "you know it's impossible, even my family cannot afford to arrange a big fat wedding"
Ji-hoon: (Moving towards) "who needs such a wedding, when I only need is you, forgive me" (kisses her)
So-yeon: (shocked) "it's not fair, I wanted to surprise you, with the kiss"
Ji-hoon and So-yeon laughed and So-yeon left, Ji-hoon with the motivation to face the false college rumours, as he is now not alone, he has some to share
As days turned into weeks, the rumours began to fade, Ji-hoon's college life became better.
One evening, as they sat on the balcony of So-yeon's apartment, looking out at the city lights, Ji-hoon took So-yeon's hand and looked into her eyes.
Ji-hoon:"So-yeon, this journey hasn't been easy, but having you by my side has made it all worthwhile. I want to spend the rest of my life with you, so don't leave me."
So-yeon:(teary-eyed) "Ji-hoon, I've always known that you're the one for me. Through thick and thin, I'll always choose you."
Ji-hoon, grateful and emotional, whispers: "Thank you, So-yeon."
So-yeon:"Ji-hoon, we'll face everything together. I'm here now."