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Chapter Text

“There’s your apron, and you can go to the IT office to get your laptop in ten minutes, unless they come to us.”


Minnie took the garment from her colleague’s hands, holding it up in front of her.

Kim Minnie
 

“It has my name?! Cool,” she smiled, placing the hook around her neck as the man came behind her to tie it around her waist.

It was Minnie’s first day working in a rather expensive looking private school in Seoul, having just graduated with a teaching degree. She had basically zero expectations how this would go, having landed in the country barely a few weeks before, with zero friends, zero understanding of the culture, and just the will to educate minimal students on how to use a pillar drill.

Moving to Korea would be fun, she said.

“Your classes are quite light this year, as you’re new to teaching. Your main one are the class twelves. There’s only three of them.”

“Three?” she frowned. “Does nobody like engineering here?”

“They’re all children of doctors,” he laughed. “You have some younger classes too, but the cohorts are split with me and Jaehyuk so again, no more than seven at one time.”

“This is perfect,” she nodded slowly. Minimal, as aimed for. “And, how does the day work?” she turned back to him.

“Follow the timetable. Lunchtime is varied for us, as some students might need extra help during our breaks. The blank boxes are free timeslots for you to do what you want.”

She stared at it blankly. At least she would be in the workshop, doing what she loves. She leaned back to look around the whole workshop, equipment lining the walls and machinery on the other side of the room, desks in the middle.

“It’s huge,” she mumbled to herself, before remembering her biggest question. “Oh… and, we can see people from other departments, right?”

“Of course. Why? You know someone?”

“My older brother works in the Chemistry department.” She chose not to add the word unfortunately to that sentence.

“Ah, I see,” he nodded. “Yes, they’re all on the third floor in the second building,” he smiled. “Also, we tend to compete in many engineering competitions here, so be ready for the extra load at times.”

“That’s fine,” she shrugged. “I love being in the workshop, so I’ll do anything for extra hours in here.”

“Perfect. Your first class is in five, so just relax. Although, there won’t be any practical work this week as the students will be getting used to the environment here.”

“That’s fine,” she sipped her coffee. “Thank you for coming in so early. You didn’t need to, really.”

“And have you taken on a rocky start? No. Kids can be brutal these days.”

“You’re right,” she laughed. “So, is the twelfth group the oldest?”

“Yes. Their exams are at the end of this year, right before they all graduate. We’ve assigned them to you as they all know what they’re doing in terms of their final product. They’ve been instructed to focus on their portfolios and presentations this half of term, so you shouldn’t worry about them unless they’re struggling.” He paused, laughing to himself. “They’re very amusing,” he added. “You’ll get the most fun with those three than the other classes.”

“Oh, really?” she raised her eyebrows.

“Definitely.”

The doorbell rung, the older man ambling around the desks and over a stray screw to open it. A box was handed to him.

Minnie walked over hesitantly, tilting her head as he handed the box to her.

“That’s your laptop,” the woman at the door smiled. “If you have any trouble with it, let me know… but it is brand new, so you should be okay.”

“Oh, thanks,” she bowed quickly, taking it in her hands and opening it up. “This is good,” she nodded. The woman left, her colleague removing his apron.

“I’m going to grab a coffee. The girls will be here soon. If you need any help, the assistant is in the office upstairs,” he gave a thumbs up, leaving the building.

Minnie held the laptop against her chest, walking slowly over to the writing desk. She sighed, shaking off all her nerves, before a loud ‘beep’ was heard from the door, startling her.

It swung open, three students strolling in, dropping their things and grabbing their aprons from the hook beside the cupboard.

“Morning,” the tallest called. “Where’s Park-ssaem?” Minnie opened her mouth to answer, but was cut off.

“She left, dumbass,” the shorter one snapped, the medium one in between them forcing them apart. She looked up, locking eye contact with Minnie, who smiled sheepishly. “Wow, she’s pretty, isn’t she?”

“Pack it up. That’s an adult,” the mediator shook her head, taking a seat in front of her. The other pair came up on either side, all three pulling out their iPads.

“Good morning,” Minnie giggled. “Call me Kim-ssaem. I’ll be your teacher this year.” She cracked her knuckles under the table, taking a deep breath to calm herself.

“Thank god. Our last teacher was not good,” the tallest sighed. Minnie gulped. “I’m Yuqi, and I don’t know what I’m doing.”

“Jeez, don’t scare her off! It isn’t even eight thirty yet,” the shortest rolled her eyes. “My name is Soyeon, and unlike Yuqi, I was listening in class,” she gave a broad, inviting smile.

“I’m Shuhua,” the middle one spoke quietly, tapping at her device. Minnie nodded. So, Soyeon would be the one to trust, Shuhua being the self-organiser, and Yuqi perhaps on the blacklist? It was good to character profile in advance.

“So I take it you all know what you’re doing?” she asked. “A-apart from Yuqi?”

“Pretty much,” Soyeon shrugged. “So… where did you teach before here?”

“I haven’t,” she smiled. “You’re my first class ever,” she bit her tongue anxiously.

“Oh, don’t get your hopes too high,” Yuqi mumbled. “Wait, you have us every day for three hours?! What is this? Shit… sorry. No offence to you, just… we used to get free periods last year. What happened?!”

“I think the school suggested you spend more time on your coursework. It’ll feel like free time when you put more work into it and finish the course early.”

“Won’t make a difference if our test is the same time as everything else,” Soyeon mumbled.

“And, Yuqi-ssi, pleasure refrain from bad language in our classes.”

“Oh, sorry. I didn’t even realise,” she flushed.

Shuhua whined, staring at her timetable. “This is terrible!” she cried. “Engineering for two hours… then maths… then ad-math… then… physics?!”

“It’s fine,” Yuqi patted her shoulder across Shuhua’s face. “We have Cho.”

“Oh? That’s perfect,” she switched up immediately.

“Hey, Kim, have you spoken to any other teachers here?” Yuqi looked up.

“It’s Kim-ssaem,” she reminded, “and no, I haven’t.”

“You’d get along with Cho-ssaem,” she nodded. “You’re both young and pretty. Although, she’s quite… tough… at times.”

“Not really. She just tells us off for existing. But, she can feel like a parent.”

“A really young, kind of fun parent. My parents aren’t fun,” Shuhua clarified.

“Yeah no shit Shu. If you had a fun parent, you’d get nowhere in life.”

“That’s not true!” she defended. “Soyeon’s parents are fun!”

“Rich and fun are different things,” Yuqi rolled her eyes. “Damn we have you for three hours on Thursdays and Fridays?!”

“Hey, hey, we have engineering for four hours on Mondays. Two first thing and two last,” Soyeon tilted her screen.

“Oh my god!”

“Guys, let’s calm down,” Minnie sighed, the three finally starting their work. “So, who is this… Cho…ssaem?” she asked softly.

Soyeon looked up, narrowing her eyes. “She’s our physics teacher. You’ll notice her, trust me.”

“Okay,” she nodded slowly.

“You’re really quiet. Sorry about us. Our last teacher could keep up with the banter. It’s okay. We’ll tone it down,” she smiled gently. “Why did you want to start teaching?”

“It’s in the family,” she blushed. “My mother was a piano teacher, and my grandfather taught Chinese. And I love engineering, but the best part of working in school is the holiday we get.”

“Yeah… you’re right,” she nodded. “Hey, can you take a look at this slide please?”

“Sure,” Minnie leant over, tilting her head as she read through the pages.

“I like your hair,” Shuhua babbled. “I really want to dye mine but my parents don’t let me. Because they’re not fun,” she pouted.

“You’ll be an adult soon, Shu,” Yuqi laughed.

“You’ve made good progress over the summer. Maybe you don’t need the extra hours,” Minnie hummed, pushing Soyeon’s screen back.

Soyeon shrugged. “You seem chill. We don’t mind. Plus it gives us time to revise, at least. Unless you need the free hours.”

“I may do, but I can’t know just yet,” she nodded. “But I look forward to teaching you three this year.”

“We won’t be a handful! We promise!” Yuqi and Soyeon high fived. “Okay, maybe a little. Just a little.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“So… breaktime is at ten? That’s five minutes from now?”

Minnie was staring at her computer in confusion, her fellow form teacher helping with some chaos with the students.

“We get twenty minutes, and then at ten to one, we have lunch,” a quieter student moved next to her. “You look stressed. It’s okay,” she smiled warmly. Minnie nodded slowly, eyes darting around the screen. “Where are you from?”

She looked up. “Thailand. How could you tell?”

“You have an accent,” she tapped on a few links, showing her the screen. “This will make life easy for you. I’m Soojin.”

“Soojin,” she mumbled. “Thank you, Soojin.”

“No problem. Really, there’s no need to panic about anything. Ask anyone for help, and they will.”

She blinked. “I see…”

“What subject do you teach?”

“Engineering and technology,” she turned to her.

“Oh, really? You’ll have my friends then.”

“I just had some girls in this year group.”

“Shuhua?”

“Y-yeah… Shuhua. You’re friends?”

“Best. Although, don’t tell her I said that. She gets too excited when she thinks it’s requited.”

Minnie laughed. “I see. I won’t say anything.” She looked around the room. “The uniform here is beautiful. Ours was purely for comfort.”

“Yeah, and ours wasn’t,” she pointed at the frills by her neck. “Take a deep breath,” she insisted with a gentle smile. “You’ll be okay.”

“Th-thanks…”

“Oh, it’s break now! See you tomorrow.”

Minnie smiled nervously, watching all the students filter out of the room, along with the other teacher.

“W-wait, ssaem,” she called to him. “Where’s the physics office?”

“Third floor,” he nodded, leaving her alone in the room.

She hastily grabbed her things, throwing them into her bag and dashing out of the room.

“Cho… Cho who?” she frowned, slipping through the crowd of students and through the packed corridor. “She teaches physics. So, I go there, and ask for her…”

She frowned, hitting the empty third floor. “Why am I listening to a bunch of teenagers?... but they did seem genuine. And I haven’t got any friends here.”

Not enough friends, having moved to the country only a month before.

Her eyes scanned each door, classroom after laboratory passing in a flash as she jogged past each one. She upped her pace, jog turning into a run, before she collided with a figure.

She hissed in pain, firm hands supporting her from falling backwards completely, refraining from letting any profanity slip.

“Sorry,” she whined, stepping back to compose herself.

“Jeez, why are you up here?”

She looked up, Mac standing in front of her in confusion. She sighed in relief.

“Can I not be here?”

“Well, you can, but…” he shrugged, helping her gain her balance. “How was your first lesson?” he brushed her off.

“Good,” she shrugged, noticing the label on his lab coat. “’Mac Yontak’? What happened to the rest of our name?”

“You tell me. Where did ‘Kim’ come from to begin with?”

She blushed. “They just gave it. I don’t know!”

He patted her head. “Why are you here?”

“Just exploring!”

“You really weren’t.”

“Who’s Cho-ssaem?” she asked impulsively. “My students mentioned her being a similar age from me. My department is just middle aged men. I really want to meet someone who gets me.”

“Cho?... Sorry… I don’t know. She doesn’t work in the Chemistry office.”

“She teaches physics! Have you really never seen her?!”

“No… sorry,” he mumbled. “Well, if she does exist, keep looking. I probably know her, but we don’t usually use surnames to call each other as we’re not… pupils.”

“I’m not stupid, Mac. That’s all the girls told me!”

“Okay, okay! Just knock on the door and ask, but… I don’t know. You look desperate.”

“The EDT department is boring, you know?”

He pointed at a red door, eyes following her as he watched Minnie walking up to it, and knocking once.

“You’re a psychopath.”

“Fuck off.”

“Who knocks once?!”

She knocked twice more. No one opened.

“Bad luck. Wait until lunch.”

“What if I don’t have any friends?”

“This isn’t school, Nich- Well, it is, but-“

“Dude.”

“Text me if you want us to get you. Otherwise, go with your department.”

“Oh… okay…”

He sighed. “You’re such a kid.”

“I’m not!” she whined, about to punch him before they heard footsteps from the other side of the corridor.

“Oh… hey!” Yuqi grinned. “It’s you again! Kim-ssaem! Anyway, Yontak-ssaem, can you help me with this question?”

He took the phone from her hand. “You’ve been struggling with this since January. Couldn’t you… ChatGPT-“

She cut him off with a gasp. “How dare you-“

“Okay, okay! All I’m saying is, you could have found other ways to get help!”

“But you’re a teacher!”

“It’s also a new school year!"

They walked back into the chemistry office, leaving Minnie by herself. She shrugged. She’d have to drop by later.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“You’re lying to me.”

“We’re not! Maybe you picked the wrong moments!” Yuqi whined, Shuhua busy drawing a picture of Minnie Mouse, having realise her teacher’s first name.

“I went twice, and I didn’t see her in the dining hall.”

“She’s not wrong,” Soyeon sighed. “Maybe she wasn’t in.”

“You tell me. I thought she taught you.”

“We have two physics teachers. We have her today after lunch.”

“That’s a great drawing Shu,” Soyeon snorted. “Well, how was day one?”

“Fine. You were my best class.”

“Woah, okay, so terrible, right?” Soyeon patted her back. “We’ve been there.”

“No we haven’t?” Shuhua turned to her.

“No, as in… ‘we’ve’ been there.”

“Oh…”

“You aren’t that bad. You just talk a lot.”

“Made any friends?” Soyeon asked.

“No.”

“Aw.”

“Soojin said you spoke to her yesterday!” Shuhua exclaimed. “What did you say?”

“She told me how the timings work here, and was actually quite helpful.”

“Did she mention me?!”

“What do you think, Shu,” Yuqi flicked her forehead, Shuhua sinking in her seat.

Minnie remembered Soojin’s warning, sighing to herself. “She mentioned you, Shuhua, but it was just a small, “oh, I know her”, after I told her what classes I teach.”

Shuhua jumped out of her chair. “Oh my god! Oh my god!!” she squealed, throwing her arms around her. “Soojin said she loves me!”

“No she did not,” Soyeon stared at her blankly.

Shuhua slid back into her chair, kicking her under the table. “Lovely,” Yuqi nodded in satisfaction.

“Thanks for the hug, Shu… so, you three can get on with your work then.”

“I miss cutting!” Yuqi complained.

“Yuqi, you better word that differently next time,” Soyeon frowned.

“What?”

“Fucking foreigner,” she mumbled, Yuqi grabbing a triangular file.

“Hey hey hey, calm down,” Minnie took the weaponised saw and placed it on her desk. “Yuqi, we’ll be back on your product in a few weeks. Please be patient with me.”

“Okay,” she pouted.

“Soyeon-ah, are you okay?”

“Yeah,” she leant on her hand. “I think I’ll be done by next week.”

“What if I distract you so that you won’t be,” Yuqi challenged.

“I literally could not care less,” Soyeon grumbled.

“Hey, let’s concentrate on our work now. No, really, Soyeon, I can see the work that you’ve put in. You’re looking at full marks right now.”

“Woah…”

“Hey! I want full marks!”

“Better work your shit then, Shu,” Yuqi advised.

“Language, Song-ssi.”

“You mean Songstar? Heck yeah!”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“So, Engineering? Woah, but your aesthetic is so cute and pretty!”

“Just today!” Minnie whined.

Her new friend smiled across the lunch table, biting into a piece of fried fish. “I know. I saw you yesterday. You like hip hop?”

“What?”

“I don’t know. You have a dancer body. I thought you might be into that stuff.”

“Oh, right… No… I’m not like that,” she shrugged, adjusting the loose baby pink jumper she was wearing over her dress.

“Kim Minnie… cute. I’m Yuri.”

“You teach…”

“Guess.”

“Something creative.”

“Yep.”

“Music.”

“Right.”

“Ew…”

“Oh come on!”

“And you teach all the years?”

“I know. It’s hell. It shouldn’t be compulsory.

Minnie nodded. “How long have you been here?”

“Nine years.”

“So you’ve seen everything,” she mumbled. “I was still in school maybe five years ago,” she hummed. “Hey, uh, actually, I have a question. My students keep mentioning this teacher whom I may get along with, a-and, I don’t really have friends in Korea, so I really want to make the most of their suggestion.”

“Oh yeah, sure. What’s her name?”

“Cho something. She works in physics.”

Yuri narrowed her eyes. “Cho… physics… Oh! Oh yes, uhh… shoot, sorry. I know who they’re talking about. They call her ‘the pretty one’ around here. Ask any man. They all know her name.”

“Any man, huh,” she narrowed her eyes.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Fucking dipshit!”

“Hey! No swearing!”

“You lied to me! You know who I’m looking for!” Minnie scowled, Mac rubbing his bruised arm.

“Okay! Okay, fine, I do.”

“Well where is she?!”

“She’s in her office right now!” he groaned. Minnie perked up.

“Really?!” her eyes widened.

“Jeez, you’re too obsessed over someone you’ve never met,” he scoffed. “Go eat.”

“I’m not hungry! I want to meet her!”

“She’s probably eating too.”

“Then I’ll wait,” she sank in his office chair, spinning around in it.

He stared at her, before reaching for his backpack and pulling out a box. “Here. Take this,” he handed it to her. She opened it, a kaya toast lying inside.

“What?” she scowled.

“Eat it,” he groaned. “Or you’ll starve. I’m sure she’ll be back soon. Go to her office in ten minutes.”

She stared at him, now confused. “Why are you not bullying me?” she asked innocently, taking the sandwich and gnawing the corner.

“Because,” he moved his hands around in the space in front of him, “I get it, okay! Like, not having any friends in a new country, relying on K-dramas and Duolingo to converse with your own students… Like, it’s hard. And honestly, I think you’ll like her, but she can come across as standoffish to those she doesn’t know. You should give it a shot. Look,” he grabbed his blazer from behind the chair she was on. “I’m going for lunch now. You’ll be fine by yourself, right?” She nodded. “Okay. I’ll see you soon.”

She nodded slowly, watching him leave the room, before pivoting to view the corner of his computer screen, watching each second pass.

The bread had long disappeared by the time ten minutes had finished, at which she stood up, dusted her lap and tossed the box, before making her way out of the door.

She skipped down the corridor, turning left and then walking down another when she caught sight of an angry twelve year old, who’d clearly been given an earful from one of her teachers.

A young teacher, who happened to be standing in the middle of the doorway, calling her name out.

“Daeun! Come back!” she called to the student, who had already sprinted past Minnie in a rage. Minnie made eye contact with the teacher, who sighed to herself.

“Kids,” Minnie smiled, walking up to her.

“Right?” she placed the test down. “She didn’t study. This wasn’t a hard topic! She’s a good student!” she argued, before shaking her head at the situation. “She’ll do better next time,” she shrugged. “But hey, I’ve never seen you around before,” she looked her up and down.

Minnie stared at her inquisitively. She was young, pretty, had a good sense of style… and a nice voice. Wow, she really was the whole package.

And now she has to stop herself from blatantly checking out another woman.

“My name is Minnie,” she cleared her throat. “I teach engineering. I am new.”

She blinked. That sounded much too robotic.

“Cute,” she laughed out loud. Such pearly white tee- “I’m Miyeon,” she walked back into her office, Minnie following her inside. It seemed to be empty, luckily. “We’re the same age right?” She nodded. “Wow, and you just joined?” she nodded. “I’m surprised I haven’t seen you, but I have been busy recently. How has it been so far? You’ve taught before?”

“No,” she curled up in the chair opposite.

“Where are you from?”

“Thailand,” she smiled. “But I like it here too.”

“Made any friends?” She shook her head. “Aw, don’t worry,” she chuckled, pulling out a bag from her drawer. “Chocolate?”

Minnie took one hesitantly. “Physics… That’s hard.”

“Not much harder than yours. All maths,” she shrugged. “It’s refreshing, seeing you. At least I’m no longer the only one who’s going to be hit on,” she rolled her eyes. “That man behind you- god, he’s the only one that isn’t insufferable.”

“Oh. I didn’t see them.”

She took a chocolate herself, replacing the bag. “He came out of a Chemistry lab. Mac Yontak.” Minnie’s face heated up.

“I see. You like him?” she muttered.

Miyeon blushed. “No!” she exclaimed. “He’s just… nice. He’s Thai too. Have you met?”

She paused. “I- I guess not,” she bit her tongue, amused by her own choice of words.

“He’s attractive, and kind. A little bit of banter, I guess. And he never tries to get with me.”

“Are you sure that’s not his way of getting with you?” she challenged.

Miyeon watched her. “You’re really beautiful, Minnie-ssi. What made you teach?”

“Why? You think I should model?”

“Of course. And you’re tall,” she listed. “Shit. Lessons are starting up soon. You should go. We can see each other later,” she stood up, grabbing a few books and her bag.

Minnie slipped out of the chair in a daze, following her out of the room. “Y-yeah… of course. Thanks for the chocolate. And the conversation. You’re really nice. I- I like your hair.”

Miyeon burst into laughter. “You’re adorable,” she turned to enter a different corridor. “Speak soon,” she winked.

“Y-yeah,” Minnie raised her hand to wave, paralysed in her spot as she watched Miyeon’s back turn down the corridor.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“I saw you with her,” Yuqi challenged. “So, how was it?”

“What?” Miyeon sighed, wishing that Yuqi would just shut up and do her work like the other girls.

“We’ve been getting her to meet you for like ages,” she groaned. “She’s nice, isn’t she?”

“Of course, I…” she groaned. “Yuqi, please wor-“

“No! No, spill! Come on! We want to know more about her but we don’t want to scare her away-“

“Hey, hey, I didn’t speak to her for that long,” Miyeon defended. “She’s a sweet girl. Now do your work!”

Yuqi rolled her eyes. “It’s okay. I’ve got her for a double after this. I’ll get her to tell us everything,” she wriggled her eyebrows.

Soojin kicked her under the table. “Just do the equations,” she snapped.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Soyeon-ah? What’s happened?” Minnie frowned, looking up from her surface to find Soyeon walking painfully slowly into the workshop, hands around her waist. “There’s another hour until-“

“I felt ill,” she mumbled, throwing her bag over.

“So you came here?” she stood up, running over to her as she doubled over in pain. “Go to the nurse’s office-“

“No!” she shook her head quickly. “They’ll write it up and email my parents and do everything that I don’t want them to do,” she argued.

Minnie bit her tongue. “Okay, okay,” she whispered, handing her some medicine, before walking over to the sink to grab a wet towel. “If you go to my office there’s a small sofa,” she directed. Soyeon hobbled in, Minnie following after her closely. “Lie down and get some rest. And go and sleep when you get home!” she directed.

Soyeon yawned, slowly lowering herself on the surface. “It hurts,” she groaned.

“Go see the nurse,” she urged, grabbing a stool and dragging it up behind herself to sit beside her patient, whom she placed the damp towel on. “Fevers are never good. And a stomach ache? You’re doing well.”

“I’m not.”

“You’re not screaming,” she reasoned.

Soyeon looked up in a daze. “Hey, I’m sorry about disturbing you. I’ll be fine here.”

“No, no, it’s okay. Unless you want me to go-“

“No!” she stopped, before composing herself. “Are you coming on the STEM trip?” she asked suddenly.

“Eh? No? Why would I be?”

“It’s one teacher from every STEM department. No one seems to be coming from engineering. You should come. It’s only to Japan for a couple of weeks.”

“Weeks? How can they afford that? And for you to miss so much work?”

“It’s our year. It’s all coursework and revision. We’ll be fine. And there’s time to work there.”

“Sounds interesting,” she nodded slowly, brows furrowing as she listened further.

Soyeon groaned, before continuing. “Shu and Yuqi are coming. Maybe Soojin too. I was only asking because Miss Cho is leading it. We’re ignoring that her best friend lives in Japan, being probably the only reason why she’s taking us.”

“I see… I would love to, but I can’t afford to spend my first term out of work. I need to meet people, and talk to people, a-and-“

“Chill! It’s a big event. And Miss Cho is leading it,” she repeated. “Yuqi said she saw you both. She’s nice, right?”

“Oh, yeah,” she mumbled. “Yeah, she’s nice.”

Soyeon sat up slowly. “I should start working. I have so much to do-“

“You’re ahead of the others; don’t worry,” she insisted. “Would you like me to leave so you can rest?”

“I don’t know,” she shrugged, wincing suddenly. “I guess I enjoy your company.”

“That’s nice to hear. I don’t want to be that teacher that makes you stare at the clock the whole time. I used to have those. Painful.”

“Literally. No, but please come on the trip! It’ll be nice! And you’re nice. You’re better than some of the other ones coming.”

“If you say so. I don’t want to throw my weight around. If Miyeon doesn’t bring it up, then I won’t push.”

“Miyeon?”

“Sorry, Miss Cho,” she corrected. “S-sorry.”

Soyeon looked away. “Hey, can I ask you something?”

“Sure…?”

“You have a weird way of speaking.”

Minnie frowned. “What’s that supposed to mean?!”

“As in, did you learn Korean from a textbook? What happened to cartoons and lullabies like normal babies?” she judged. “Oh wait… are you even from Korea? I mean you must be. ‘Kim’ Minnie?”

Minnie nodded slowly. “I’m from Thailand. Kim’s just… I don’t know.”

“What’s your real name?!”

“Nicha.”

“Nicha Minnie. I see-“

“N-no, sorry… uh… Yontararak Nicha… except, in Thailand we say our given name first.”

“Nicha Yontararak. Hm… interesting. Hey, that sounds familiar!... I can’t remember where I heard it, but I definitely have. Are you famous?”

“No.”

“Would you like to be?”

“Hell no.”

Soyeon laughed. “Thank you for letting me be here. I really like you, you know? You’re easy to talk to… and quite funny.”

“I didn’t think I was,” Minnie tilted her head in confusion.

“See, just like that,” she giggled. “Please don’t tell the medical centre,” she sighed.

Minnie narrowed her eyes. “It’s safeguarding, So-“

“Please?” she begged. “I’m fine. It’s just an ache.”

“Okay,” she grabbed a cushion from her chair, placing it under her head. “Sleep, kid. Even if it’s during our lesson. I’d rather you work at your full potential than get even more sick.”

The front door opened, Minnie looking through the doorway of the office.

“Hey Kim!” Yuqi waved. “Saw you with Cho earlier. Hit off well?”

“We… yeah,” she mumbled, not understanding what she had said. She stood up from the stool, walking out to her.

“Why’s Sso there? Yah-“

“She’s resting,” Minnie closed the door behind her. “She isn’t feeling well. Come on now. Get your things out.”

“Not until you tell me about your new friend!” Yuqi grinned, dropping beside her table. Minnie sighed. This would be a long lesson.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“I’m running a trip to Japan. I think you have to come,” Miyeon proposed the following morning over breakfast.

Minnie raised her eyebrows. “Are you sure?”

“Of course! All expenses paid for. Just come! It’ll be fun. The girls can do whatever they want, and we can too. It’s two weeks. We have so much time, and we’re not the ones sitting exams.”

“That is true,” she nodded slowly. “Am I allowed to?”

“Why wouldn’t you be?” she tilted her head.

Minnie blinked slowly. “I guess I don’t know… I would love to… I don’t know you…”

“Hey, hey, it’s next month. We have time.”

“Haven’t you booked tickets?”

“Well, you see. I had. The last engineering teacher was coming. So… free tick.”

“Oh, I understand,” she nodded. “I would like that.”

Miyeon smiled. “Don’t worry about everything. You look scared,” she pouted. “Cute,” she whispered. “We should go out after work. I guess you haven’t seen much of Korea?”

“Not much,” she scratched her head sheepishly.

“Hey, it’s okay,” she leaned forwards to wipe her mouth with her thumb. “Who are you teaching first?”

“Song Yuqi,” she sighed. “And… co."

“Soyeon isn’t in school today. Soojin mentioned something about her being ill.”

“She was quite, yesterday afternoon.”

“Poor thing. One less to worry about in class, though.”

“From a three to a two.”

“Song Yuqi has a personality complete for more than three people at a time,” Miyeon remarked. “She’s a funny girl. She asked me how we got along.”

“So did Soyeon,” Minnie nodded.

“What did you say?” she smirked.

Minnie paused, sipping her coffee slowly. “I said that I really liked you,” she blushed.

“You’re so cute!” she squealed. “I’m happy that I have someone I can talk to. I mean, if you don’t mind.”

“Of course not,” she grinned. They stood up to clear their trays, doing as so before leaving the cafeteria. “Unnie, can I hug you?”

Miyeon turned around, pulling her out of the doorway. “Minnie-ah, that’s not how we use ‘unnie’. We’re the same age,” she chuckled at her innocence, striding over to a stationary taxi- specifically one with a pink bow on the front.

Minnie hung behind her, waiting for her to come back to her.

“Come. We’ll drive over to your building.”

“I could just walk-“

“Come, come,” she shook her head, opening the door. She climbed in, Miyeon following her. “This is my uncle,” she gestured to the driver.

“O-oh, hello,” she bowed quickly.

“I forced him to put the bow on,” she added, her uncle waving and nodding back sweetly. “I know it’s only a ten minute walk but he needs the money,” she whispered.

“Can’t you just… give it?”

“Exactly! He resists every time,” she sighed, as the car began to move.

“Oh, I see,” she nodded.

Miyeon leaned over suddenly, arms outstretched. “Come on then.”

“What?” she watched her, perplexed.

“You wanted a hug, did you not?” she smiled.

Minnie blushed, leaning in to hug her. “Thank you for being my first friend here. I hope we stay close.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Life is not worth living.”

“Song Yuqi, please do your work.”

“But why should I? Life is not worth it. Who cares about my stupid coursework. They should give up and start caring about why life is worth living.”

“All this because Soyeon isn’t it?” Shuhua scoffed. Minnie looked up from her screen, hiding her smirk as she watched her student continue to lament.

“I miss her,” she sobbed.

“Trust me. We know,” Shuhua rolled her eyes. “Just work, for crying out loud.”

“I have no motivation,” she threw her arms in the air.

Suddenly, the doorknob began to shake, a figure behind the door knocking at it in confusion. It finally opened, revealing the figure in question.

“Soyeon!” Yuqi yelled, Minnie frowning when she realised.

“Aegi, why are you here?” Minnie sighed, walking over to the door.

“Aegi?” Shuhua giggled. “You’re right. She’s quite little.”

“I was scared to miss too much school. This trip and all. It’ll take years off my life.”

Minnie took her bag from her. “I can carry you to your seat.”

“O-oh,” she frowned. “I’m okay,” she shook her head, yawning as Minnie helped her to her seat.

“Yuqi was just crying about how the world had ended because you hadn’t shown up.”

Soyeon rolled her eyes. “I’m ill, Yuqi.”

“SO am I when you’re not here!” she whined, Shuhua smacking her forehead.

“Seriously, Soyeon-ah, are you okay?” Minnie asked softly. “Let me know if you need anything. Please.”

“Of course,” she nodded. “Thanks,” she looked up. “Have they harassed you about Miss Cho yet?”

“Not particularly,” she shook her head.

“You guys are cute together,” Yuqi yawned, lying on Shuhua’s work, who smacked her side.

“You think?” Minnie smirked.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Really?! That’s so cute!”

“I know. I’m a detective, right?” Miyeon winked, sitting back in her chair as she sipped her glass of wine.

Minnie had just been informed of Miyeon’s suspicion of Yuqi and Soyeon’s behaviour.

“Everywhere. They act romantically. I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re an item.”

“I agree. Yuqi was insufferable without Soyeon.”

“I know. You should see her in physics. All because Soyeon chose a medical degree.”

“She did?”

“Yeah. Biology and chemistry. Not me.”

“So why the engineering?”

“Chemical engineering? I guess?”

“That’s… not it,” Minnie made a face. “But they’re adorable. I see it. Poor Shuhua.”

“Don’t ‘poor’ Shuhua,” she snorted. “She gives Soojin grief.”

“So I thought,” Minnie hummed. “But they seem to be good friends. I guess Soojin doesn’t play into her behaviour.”

“Yandere. Or is it tsundere? Which one’s which?” Miyeon hummed. “But I used to teach Soyeon before. Good kid. Kind. Soft spoken. A little bit of attitude, but which teenager doesn’t?”

“Hm, I was awful,” Minnie nodded. “Hey, so uh… I live alone. Would you like to comeback to mine for drinks?”

Miyeon stared at her wine glass. “Hell yeah.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“How are you finding Korea?” Miyeon enquired, linking arms with her as they walked down the dark, empty road.

Minnie turned to her silently, Miyeon’s eyes staring straight back at her.

“I love it here,” Minnie nodded. “The people are nice. The kids are wonderful. The food is good,” she smiled.

“Ah… well. Thai food is spectacular too,” she winked. “This your place?” she looked up, Minnie turning to walk down the path.

“I’m renting it. In case Korea doesn’t work out for me,” she explained quickly, unlocking her door. Miyeon followed her in, looking around herself carefully.

“You found a good place,” she nodded. “You rich? This is quite something,” she looked up the spiral staircase.

“Something like that,” she scratched her head sheepishly.

Miyeon giggled. “I’m joking. Come on now. Show us the alcohol.” They walked down the stairs into the basement.

“I don’t have much. I don’t drink alone,” Minnie warned. “I should probably email Soyeon and ask her how she is.”

Miyeon gave her a look, taking the bottle that she handed to her from behind. “Do they do that in Thailand?”

“Do what?” Minnie climbed up the step to reach for another bottle.

“Ask students how they are over email? Surely you just drop a quick enquiry at the beginning of your next lesson.”

“She slept in my office because she could barely sit straight,” Minnie sighed, pulling out the last one. “I wanted people to care about me when I was younger.”

“True,” Miyeon shrugged, following her back up the stairs. “You’re so polite. No wonder they love you.”

“I don’t think-“

“Yuqi goes on and on about you in our lessons. She really enjoys being around you.”

“What does she say?” Minnie walked to the kitchen, handing her the bottle so she could grab two glasses.

“How you’re kind, and patient, and a really good teacher. Apparently their last one wasn’t good,” she laughed, finally entering the living room. “Jeez. You must get ten thousand steps a day just by walking around in here,” she joked, dropping in the sofa.

Minnie sat beside her, Miyeon curling an arm around her. “You don’t need to go back home tonight. It’s late, and we have to work tomorrow. I have a guest room.”

Miyeon blushed. “Are you sure?”

“Of course. It’s not safe to travel at night,” she popped open the first wine bottle, filling Miyeon’s glass, and then hers. “And I wouldn’t mind the company. You’re my first proper friend here.”

“I’m glad I am. Moving to Korea was such a big change. You’re so brave.”

“I know, but… wait, unnie- I mean, Miyeon… we’re the same age, but you were already working here?”

“Just three years,” she nodded.

Minnie frowned. “Oh, right. I took a gap year… and a masters degree…”

“See? You’re much accomplished than I am.”

Minnie sat back. “I know the girls like me, but I wish I was a native Korean speaker. I want to join in on their banter, and they want me to as well, but I never know what to say or how to carry a conversation.”

“I know what you mean. They’re advanced speakers, too. Yuqi managed to get the whole language down when she joined.”

“She’s foreign?” Miyeon nodded. “And Shuhua too?” She nodded again. “They’re intelligent girls, I must say.”

“Your best bet is with Soyeon,” she explained. “I used to teach her, as I said earlier, but I doubt she’s changed much. She’ll be patient with you.”

“I know,” she nodded slowly. “She’s calm, and is genuinely curious about me.”

“I am too, but I won’t interview you,” she patted her leg. “Yuqi can also be calm. You just need to find her at the right time.”

Minnie gazed at her. “Tell me about you,” she mumbled, sipping her wine.

Miyeon raised her eyebrows. “Well, what do you want to know?”

“What you enjoy doing. Where you live. What you studied… I don’t know. It just feels like I’ve known you for days when in reality I met you last week.”

“I know what you mean. Teaching was never my passion. It’s what I do on the side.”

“Oh, what?”

“I sing. I work with Soyeon, actually.”

“A student?” Minnie narrowed her eyes.

“It isn’t like that. She’s a producer. She’s produced music for years now. Extremely talented girl. When she found out I write songs, we decided to work together, and we’ve been doing well with it.”

“What about when she graduates?”

“It’s all the same,” she shrugged. “We may release it, or maybe not. I’ll let her sell them to big artists, and we’ll split the profit,” she winked. Minnie giggled. “I perform. Mainly in bars, so the students don’t spread my whole lifestyle.”

“I see,” Minnie nodded slowly.

“I live alone too,” she added. “I had a boyfriend, but… I wasn’t sure about him.”

“Oh, right. Someone mentioned how all the male teachers at the school knew you,” she mumbled.

“Right. I’m young. The only reason. Like I said, if I had to date anyone, I’d pick… Mac. Have you spoken to him yet?”

“No, sorry,” she scratched her head.

“Hey, don’t be. I just think you’d get along. He’s caring.”

Miyeon leant in, wiping Minnie’s undereye with her thumb. “Thanks?”

“Sorry. Your mascara smudged there,” she winked. “You’re beautiful, you know?”

Minnie gulped, staring back at her. “Y-you’re saying that?” she played with her glass.

Miyeon chuckled. “What happened to that email to Jeon Soyeon?”

Minnie blinked. “Shit, right, y-yeah… sorry…”

“Stop saying sorry,” she rubbed her back gently.

Minnie blushed, pulling out her phone. She typed quickly, sending the email without reading it twice. “I should’ve checked it for typos.”

Miyeon read the screen. “Interesting emoji use,” she narrowed her eyes.

Minnie smiled. “Can I ask you something?”

“Sure.”

Her mind flashed to her conversation with the student in question. “She mentioned your best friend in Japan. Who is she?”

“Oh! Sana-unnie!” she clapped her hands excitedly. “I’ve known her for years. We’re the same person in a different font. But, we rarely see each other. She came over for university, and then left for Japan again,” she sighed. “We’ll see her in Japan. Oh! You’re coming, right? Why am I asking? Of course you are!”

“When is it again?”

“Next week!”

“NEXT WEEK?!” she yelled. “I swear you were telling me it was next month.”

“It’s a new month,” Miyeon scratched her head awkwardly. “The end of next week. It’s in a while.”

“Fine,” she sighed. “Is Mac coming?”

“Yeah, actually. You wanna meet him?” she teased.

“No, no. I was just wondering,” she gritted her teeth, aware of her blown cover.

“Oh, I can’t wait!”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“I saw your email. Sorry I didn’t reply. Interesting emoji choice.”

“Thanks, Soyeon-ah.”


Soyeon took her regular seat on the bright Monday morning, Minnie typing at her computer busily.

“You’re coming on the trip then.” Minnie nodded. “You’re rooming with Cho-ssaem. I saw.”

Minnie looked up. “I am?” she frowned. “How do you know about this?”

“There’s a list in the biology office,” she shrugged. “I’m happy you’ve met. I don’t think she had many friends here either.”

“Well, everyone is nice here, so I’m not complaining either way.”

“Has Jin-ssaem not hit on you yet?” she made a face. “One of my old maths teachers left after he harassed her.”

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” she narrowed her eyes. “Anyway, how are you feeling? I reformatted a few of your slides as I saw you were a little behind your schedule.”

“You did that?” Soyeon dove at her iPad. “Ssaem, you didn’t have to. I- I have to the work anyway. It’s my grade-“

“I know, but I don’t want you to be stressed out. I also did a little for Yuqi, who’s also fallen behind our class schedule.”

“I think she saw. She thought it was God who did it for her last night,” she joked, Yuqi walking into the workshop.

“Good morning,” she smiled, coffee in hand, that she passed to Minnie. “I got one for free, and I hate coffee.”

Minnie took it from her slowly. “Are you sure?”

“You look a little tired, and, why not? Soyeon’s idea of coffee is a Starbucks iced vanilla latte with six pumps of syrup extra cream and caramel nuggets at the bottom. In other words, a sugar fest.”

“Hey, don’t come for me,” Soyeon pouted, Yuqi dropping beside her. She watched Minnie look down at her computer, before stealing a kiss on her cheek.

“How are you feeling?” Yuqi whispered, Minnie pretending not to notice their interaction.

“Better. Thank you for coming yesterday. I needed you,” she sighed, Yuqi patting her leg under the table. “Where’s Shuhua?”

“She has the flu. She’s been out for two days already,” Yuqi winced.

“Poor thing,” Soyeon mumbled. “If it gets worse-“

“She can’t come to Japan,” Yuqi frowned. “And it’s annoying because the trip is so long. If she isn’t with us she’ll get bored and have separation anxiety.”

“There’ll be a way, guys. Don’t worry,” Minnie chuckled. “Work on your coursework.”

Soyeon nodded, yawning before she carried on. Yuqi was about to pull out her computer when she noticed something different. “Ssaem, that hoodie is Cho-ssaem’s, isn’t it? She wore it during last year’s excursion.”

Minnie blushed. “Y-yeah, it is… Why?”

“Nothing?” Yuqi smiled knowingly. Minnie’s heart sank.

“Don’t get any ideas,” she mumbled quickly for damage control. Soyeon and Yuqi gave each other a look.

“The coffee will get cold,” Yuqi pushed it towards her. “I won’t be in the lessons tomorrow. I have this computing challenge they’re making me do.”

“Why?” Soyeon frowned. “You don’t even take it.”

“I know. Stupid,” she scoffed under her breath.

“Would you rather do a maths Olympiad instead?” Minnie hinted jokingly.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever,” Yuqi mumbled.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“They noticed the hoodie? They’re much more astute than I thought.”

“That’s what I was thinking,” Minnie slid her hands into the pockets, Miyeon linking arms with her as they crossed the road.

“Ugh, I have so much to mark,” she groaned. “And Yuqi’s not in my lesson so I have to give her extra work!”

Minnie turned to her. “Shit. I’m supposed to do that?”

“She can’t just miss a lesson, Min.”

She blinked slowly. “What about Shuhua? She’s ill.”

“No! No, not if they’re ill. Let her rest and catch up in her own time.”

She nodded slowly, Miyeon twirling her long blonde hair in her glove covered fingers. “Hey, there’s a 7/11 there,” Minnie pointed, Miyeon instantly dragging her inside. “Woah, woah woah.” They reached the door, Miyeon striding to the baked goods section. “You’re so hungry already?”

“Of course,” she frowned, throwing a few matcha cookies into the basket she’d managed to grab at some point without Minnie noticing. “Put what you want in. I’ll buy.”

“You sure?”

“Of course. I’m sure it’s different from Thailand.”

“Much,” she scoffed, placing a jelly drink inside. “Hey, uh… about the trip… Do we… get our own rooms?” she asked.

“Oh, sorry! No,” she shrugged. “The kids are in fours. We’re in twos,” she dove in her handbag, handing her a sheet. “Here’s the plan of the floor. We’re all on the same one, and men are above.”

Minnie took it from her, unfolding it and running her eyes along the names. “We’re in a room together. Thank you!”

Miyeon turned back. “For…?”

Minnie blushed. “N-nothing… I guess…”

“We’re next to the students.”

“Soyeon and Yuqi, surprisingly. I can’t seem to get away from them.”

“Lucky. They’re the only room that isn’t a four, if Shuhua makes it. Her mother called this morning saying that they might pull her out.”

“Shit. They were worried about that. What will she do?”

“She’ll have normal lessons with other teachers.” Minnie pursed her lips. “I called her back. I insisted she come,” Miyeon added. “Anyway, are you done? You barely looked around.”

“I-I’m done,” Minnie stepped back, Miyeon walking to the till to pay. “Would you like to come back to mine again? It was nice having you around. In Thailand I’m used to my home being packed with people-“

“Yes, yes,” Miyeon laughed. “You don’t need to explain yourself. Also, in the hotel, it’s one double bed. We tried with two singles, but we wanted the students to have those. I hope you don’t mind.”

“Of course not,” Minnie nodded. “We can distance ourselves fine.”

“Good,” Miyeon put her wallet away, thanking the cashier. “For someone who isn’t from Korea, you do a pretty good job with the language,” she added. “Remind me?”

“I learnt from K Dramas. And my br- teachers in Thailand,” she saved.

Miyeon nodded. “Smart girl,” she took her hand.

Chapter Text

Minnie sat back in the airplane seat, Miyeon engrossed in one of the plane magazines beside her. Soyeon had to take the window seat, her friends contently lined up behind her, leaving her to resort to playing her no-Wi-Fi phone games.

“Sorry,” Minnie smiled lightly, Soyeon turning to look at her. “I know it’s not ideal. It’s just a few hours!”

“Hey, I’m fine,” Soyeon shrugged, pulling her blanket over her. Minnie looked outside, the sky still dark due to the ridiculously early morning flight.

She leant back. “Go to sleep. We go right into tourism when we land,” she advised, Miyeon turning to join in, slotting the magazine back in the seat pocket.

“She’s right, Soyeon-ah. Get some rest,” she winked, leaning forward to dig in her handbag before handing her a packet of Pocky sticks. Soyeon looked at them.

“Are you sure?” she mumbled, Miyeon smiling, having to restrain herself from squeezing her cheeks.

Meanwhile behind them, Shuhua and Yuqi were bickering over something unnecessarily, Soojin too busy to give a fuck.

“Dude, stop stealing my shit! Get your own!”

“No!”

Miyeon sighed, turning around to hush them quietly, having disturbed the whole vicinity from getting any sleep.

“Kids,” she chuckled to Minnie, turning back. She slid her head onto her shoulder, Minnie leaving her arm in her lap for Miyeon to wrap her arms around. “I can’t wait to get to the hotel. I can’t wait to relax for the next two weeks,” she yawned. Minnie squeezed her thigh.

“Same. It’s only been a couple of weeks and I’m already exhausted,” she laughed. She turned back to Soyeon, whose head was bumping against the window, having fallen asleep. “Poor baby,” she whispered, Miyeon leaning up to free Minnie’s arm, who lurched over to cradle the student’s head, resting it on her other shoulder. Soyeon whined in her sleep, hugging Minnie’s side.

“They really do feel comfortable around you. You have the magic touch,” Miyeon joked, resting her head back on her shoulder.

“Right?” Minnie laughed. “So, tell me about your friend, Sana. Can we see her?”

Miyeon sighed. “I wish. I really wanted to, but she’s in America for the next two months.”

“How unfortunate,” she pouted, about to pull out a chocolate bar from her bag to cheer her up, before she heard her name. She looked up, Mac staring at her with a grin. “What?”

Miyeon looked between them, squealing when he flicked his wet hands at Minnie, sprinkling water on both of them in the process.

“Yah! Are you crazy?!” Minnie scowled, pulling Miyeon closed to her and patting her hair dry. “Crazy man,” she mumbled with an angry face, Mac fist bumping Miyeon as he passed.

“You know him, then?” she smiled. “I told you. He has a-“

“Charm?! You said charm. Look at that. How can that be charming!?” she argued.

Miyeon raised her eyebrows. “Wow. You clearly have met him, I suppose. He’s cute!”

Minnie rolled her eyes. “What are you going to do when we get to the room?”

Miyeon chuckled. “You know we have a full day of tourism before that’s happening, right?”

“I just can’t wait to sleep!” she whined. “I want to relax and waste a few hours lying there.”

“Yeah, let’s do that,” Miyeon nodded. “Well, we’ll get to the hotel by nine, and then we’ll take the students to the 7/11 nearby so that they can buy whatever they need, and snacks and sweets and stuff, and then it’s lights out from then,” she shrugged.

Minnie tugged at her jumper. “Can’t you skip that?! You’ll be there for hours.”

“I doubt it,” Miyeon patted her leg. “These kids are in Japan all the time.”

“True,” she sighed, feeling Soyeon move around against her chest.

“Umma, I’m cold,” she whined in her sleep, Minnie turning to Miyeon with a broad smile.

“She’s adorable!” she squealed, grabbing her hoodie and wrapping it around the student, who yawned and fell into an even deeper sleep.

“I know. I’m surprised she can sleep with that mayhem behind us.” She turned around, glaring at Shuhua. “If I hear one more word from either of you, it’s detention.”

“Miss, we’re on a school trip?” Shuhua frowned.

“Yes. You’ll be excluded from all activities and made to write lines in your room.”

She turned back, settling peacefully with the quiet noise. Soyeon woke up again.

“Contrary to your beliefs, the sound of their bullshit was actually quite comforting,” she mumbled, Minnie raising the arm rest so she could fully lie on top of her.

“See, Soyeon knows what she’s doing. I should probably sleep too before a long day of… I can’t tell. Is it long because of the tourism or because of them?” she frowned.

“Well… I guess it’s a bit of both,” Miyeon agreed, patting Soyeon’s head.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

Tourism lasted, all students being full of energy until the final moment. Miyeon had just returned from the 7/11 trip, Minnie having climbed into bed with a book in hand.

The door opened, Minnie perking up.

“Hi!” she smiled, Miyeon blushing as she looked around.

“So this is the room? It’s quite small… oh, you unpacked for me?! Thanks… I guess.”

“Sorry… I didn’t know if you wanted me to go through your stuff, but I could also see how tired you were-“

“No, it’s okay,” she walked over to Minnie, wrapping her arms around her. “I like your pyjama shirt,” she giggled, eyeing the pink silk with the brown teddy bears. “The bed is huge though. It’s not all too bad.”

Minnie laughed, Miyeon getting changed in the corner of the room. “Is it too cold? I can turn down the fan-“

“It’s pleasant,” she dismissed, walking into the bathroom.

Minnie yawned, placing her book away and grabbing her phone.

macdonald's

yo look what i found

some nuts

nich 

what nuts

*attachment*

deez nuts

you’re acting like a five year old stop
it.

sorry sorry

how’s your room?

Having fun sharing a bed?

i don’t mind 

i like Miyeon so it’s wtv i guess

have you seen the itenary?

not how you spell that word but carry
on

there’s a mall we’re going to tomorrow
with a thai restaurant

we should go

take miyeon

we could teach her about thailand

so about that 

i may have lied to her about not
knowing who you are 

so can we keep it up? It’s fun

you hate me that much?

Okay rude

no! it’s just fun to have a harmless secret

alright

i won’t say anything then

can we still go out together?

Of course! 

you know i can’t spend that long without
you

i hate myself for it too xx

harsh

where is she now?

getting ready for bed 

are you doing the lights out checks

did them already

anyway can i ask you for something

what?

since you’re so close with Miyeon

i was wondering if you could get a word
in about me

in what sense?

…

you know

oh? you like her?

i guess

she’s young and attractive, and

and like eight years younger than you but
okay

hey mae and phx have like a twelve year
difference

seven is fine

whatever 

she’s probably into u too 

she keeps mentioning how youre the
only nice guy or something

i don’t know if she has her eyes on you but you
have a chance

sweet

thanks nich

hey you sound a little angry though?

No I’m not! 

good night! 

miyeon's out of the bathroom now 

i'll see you at breakfast

i might be out late as i need to mark
a few papers

get a table for four so i can see you

of course love you

yeah that

bithc 

you can’t love your sister?

you can’t spell bitch??

Minnie rolled her eyes, smiling at her phone.

“Who are you texting?” Miyeon climbed in beside her. “Someone’s making you blush.”

“Oh! I’m not blushing!”… It wasn’t about Mac, right? Ew… “Oh my god, no,” Minnie whined. “It’s my brother, Mic. He’s just teasing me.”

“Oh, I see.” Miyeon leant over, Minnie taking a sigh of relief, having texted in Thai instead of Korean. “Hey, that profile picture looks like Mac.”

Fuck. “It’s a trendy haircut in Thailand,” she shrugged. “Mic isn’t even his real name,” she threw aside her phone, Miyeon moving a little closer to her.

“Can I have a hug?” she teased, Minnie rolling into her arms, noticeably blushing even more.

“I’m happy we’re in a room together. Maybe I don’t enjoy being on my own.”

“Of course,” Miyeon kissed her forehead, her soft lips making Minnie weak at the contact. “Shall we watch something before sleeping?”

“I’m a little tired, but maybe we can tomorrow. Soyeon suggested me this film… maybe we could watch it together!”

“Safeguarding,” she sighed. “I’m sorry, but… she’s not allowed to be in a room with us.”

“Hey! I thought you work with her outside of school! That’s not very safe!”

“That’s commercial, still. But… I won’t tell if you don’t, and they’re comfortable around us. At least we’re not middle aged men.”

Minnie nudged her side. “Of course they’re safe.” She turned on her side, Miyeon settling behind her.

“You don’t mind if I spoon you, right?” Miyeon stared at the back of her head, arm reaching over to settle her hand on her waist. 

“N-No, it’s okay,” she gulped, Miyeon pulling her against her front. “G-good night.”

“Night, Min.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“The food here is so good!” Minnie squealed, diving for the hash browns, placing them on the plate beside her bowl of udon, that she’d poured an unnecessary amount of curry sauce onto. “They have mochi for breakfast!”

“Calm down,” Miyeon laughed, a few students glancing at them. Luckily there was no one else in the dining room yet.

“Woah! Fried fish?! Chicken! Unnie, they have noodles!”

“Min, I’m not your unnie! And the students are laughing at you-“

“They’re not laughing at me,” she scowled, turning back to look at them.

“You’re quite cute, ssaem,” a student grabbed a ketchup sachet. “No offence of anything,” she smiled.

Minnie blinked a few times, Miyeon smiling to herself as she placed a few buns on Minnie’s plate. “They also have seasoned rice, if you want-“

“MORE CURRY?!”

“What’s happening?” Mac walked in, noticing everyone staring at the woman in question. “What? Have you never been to a breakfast bar before?”

“They have everything! We should tell phx about this so he can make the resort diner even bigger!”

“Nicha, this is barely a circuit. Phx organises two rooms of buffets,” he shook his head, walking past them.

Miyeon watched them, a little confused, but dismissed it. “There’s an empty table there,” she pointed to one beside the wall, with two chairs.

“Actually, can Mac sit with us?” she turned back to her, taking a table of four beside it.

Miyeon placed her tray down, sitting opposite her. “How did you sleep?”

“So good,” she smiled, biting into one of the buns with an expression of bliss. “It got a little cold, but you kept me warm.”

“You’re adorable when you sleep,” Miyeon pinched her cheek. “So, today, we take them to a museum, and then… a shopping-“

“Ah, that,” Mac cut in, sitting beside her. “Min and I found a Thai restaurant in there, and we were intending on going with you.”

“Have you ever had Thai food before?” Minnie asked, before downing her bowl of noodles in one go.

“Yeah, I like it. Is it authentic?”

“Well… we’ll see,” he shrugged. “How did you both sleep?”

“Good,” Minnie grinned. “You? You sounded pleased with the room to yourself.”

“And I slept amazing,” he nodded. “The students are coming down now. When did we say they should be ready?”

“Nine o’clock,” she shrugged. “Plenty of time.”

“I’m tired,” Minnie whined.

“Dude, you just said you slept great.”

“I know but still,” she frowned.

“It’s a coach ride, so you can sleep on the coach.”

“Am I not supposed to be… being a teacher? To students?”

“There’s like, six of us. I’m sure you’ll be okay.”


Minnie glanced over to the rest of the food, Soyeon scowling at one of the sections. She looked down at her plate longingly.

“Don’t overdo it. You’ll fall asleep even faster,” Mac warned.

Minnie stared between Soyeon and her plate, before getting up with a groan.

“Soyeon-ah, what’s wrong?!” she ran up to her, grabbing a few sausages at the same time.

“They have too many vegetables!” she complained, her plate filled with plain noodles and hash browns.

“They have miso soup-“

“With vegetables! Even the noodles have vegetables!”

“Why is she complaining?” Mac leaned over to Miyeon.

“She doesn’t eat vegetables,” Miyeon sighed.

“Peculiar,” he mumbled. “Well… I heard from one of your friends that you’re into musicals.”

“Off topic, but go on,” she smiled.

“Rent is playing in Seoul. My friend is in it, so I can get cheap tickets if you’d like to go.”

She blushed. “I- yeah… that would be nice, actually. Just you and I? What about Min? You seem to get along.”

“Musicals aren’t her thing. I mean, she’s good at singing them, but, nah.”

“Oh? How do you know? Has she sung for you?” she teased.

Mac bit his tongue. “Y-yeah- well, something like that. It was a dare,” he covered up, Minnie returning to her seat with all the desserts.

“Mac here says you can sing,” Miyeon turned to her.

Minnie glared at him, kicking his leg under the table. “Oh, I really can’t. It was-“

“A dare!” he cut in. “It was a dare,” he nodded towards her.

“Right… a shit dare. It was when we first met, too. He thought I was lying about being Thai so he made me sing the national anthem.”

“Creative,” he mumbled.
“I know,” she groaned.

“Oh…”

“She’s also very good at whistling.”

“Jeez, how much are you hiding from me!?”

“He’s making that up!”

“Go on, whistle for her.”

“Miyeon, I promise I cannot whistle.”

“Well try! He’s not saying it for nothing!”

“How do I deliberately fail, Mac?! You’ve dug a deep fucking hole,” she gritted her teeth.
“Haha,” he grinned.

“Hello?” Miyeon mumbled, looking between them. “I don’t speak Thai…?”

“Oh, I just told him what an assho-“

“No swearing!” Miyeon hushed her immediately.

“Shit, sorry. Well, Mac, if you can do a headstand for us, I’ll consider it.”

“What?!”

“Miyeon, I cannot do a headstand. I don’t know where she got that from.”

“Now what, dumbass?” Minnie smirked.
“I swear to god, Nicha.”

“Okay! You guys are… fighting, which, cute, but… what part was actually true?”

“She can whistle,” he nodded. “Bust a tune!”

Minnie thought for a moment. “The only songs I seem to know are national anthems. I’ll do the Korean one!”

“Weird. Even I didn’t know that until a few years ago.”

“What do you mean? It’s such a bop,” Mac argued.

Minnie took a deep breath, before trying to whistle the tune. Instead of a smile, she was met with a kick.

“Min, I think that’s the North Korean one,” Mac winced.

“I didn’t specify what Korea!”

“We have precisely identified the problem.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Girls, be quiet on the train,” Miyeon called, before shoving everyone on. The train was already full, so having to fit forty teenagers was a very big task at hand.

Soyeon squeaked, stuck behind an elderly couple, Yuqi jamming the open-door button so she wouldn’t be left behind.

“Come,” Mac sighed, grabbing her and lifting her in, before seating her in his seat. “Sorry if that was invasive,” he whispered. “Didn’t want you to be left behind.”

“It’s okay. That was a little stressful,” she sighed, Miyeon coming up behind him.

“Oh, thank god she made it on,” she grabbed onto the handle as the train began to move. “You’re so small, kid. I wasn’t sure if we’d lost you.”

“She’s okay!” Yuqi nudged Soyeon’s side, sitting beside her so they were sharing a seat. “I’m not sure about Shuhua, though.”

Minnie came up to them. “Guys, someone said Shuhua was left behind. She was in… that… biology teacher’s… group, and he’s misplaced her.”

“’Misplace-‘ How can you misplace someone?!” Miyeon began to panic. “Yuqi, Soyeon, call her and tell her to take the next train four stops down.”

She turned back to them, Yuqi already on the phone. “Shuhua said she’s missing,” she pulled it away from her ear. Everyone groaned, Miyeon taking her phone from her hand.

“Yehshu, take the next train. Get off at the fifth stop.”

“AHHH-“

“Shuhua, calm down.” Miyeon huffed. “Minnie, can you get off the train-“

“Hey!”

“And get on the next one? Make sure Shuhua is there.”

“Okay,” Minnie sighed, the train coming to a stop.

“Shuhua, get on the first carriage. Kim-ssaem will join you, okay?”

“AHHH-“

“Oh my god,” she groaned, Minnie running out of the carriage.

“Don’t miss me!” she shouted.

Miyeon turned back to Mac, the train jolting into motion, causing her to fall into his arms. He caught her, holding her tightly.

“That bar is incredibly slippery. You can hold onto me,” he mumbled.

She hesitantly reached to hold his arm, his other wrapped around her waist. “Thanks… I hope Min and Shuhua will be alright…”

“It’s Shinjuku. I think they’ll be okay,” he laughed.

“Miss, can I have my phone back?” Yuqi asked.

“Shoot, sorry,” Miyeon handed it back to her. “Thank you. Let me know if Shuhua texts you.”

“Okay,” she nodded, resting her head on Soyeon’s shoulder.


Soyeon looked around briefly, before lowering her lips against hers. Yuqi sat up, placing a hand on Soyeon’s leg. “Beauty,” she mouthed, Soyeon taking her hand and kneading it in hers.

Miyeon turned back around, smirking. “Did you see that?”

“Of course,” Mac whispered. “Are they-“

“I want to know, but I don’t want to ask. Maybe it’s something complicated. You never know with teenagers.”

“Right, right… So, uh, sorry if this is invasive, or anything,” he began, Miyeon shaking her head with a smile. “Are you in a relationship? Sorry, I’m sure you’ve told me this before.”

“Oh, no,” she laughed. “I’m single. Well, more single than these guys,” she gestured. “You?”

“I am too. Actually, I’ve never dated before, so… it’s a little… you know.”

“I understand. Actually, there are people who prefer those who have been single their whole lives.”

“Really?” he gave an unconvincing look.

“I do. It’s… innocent, you know? Don’t lose hope. Oh, the next stop is ours. That was fast.”

“It’s Japan,” he reminded, lifting her off him.

“Sorry,” she mumbled, gathering Soyeon and Yuqi. “If you could tell the other teachers to go on ahead with my group, I’ll wait for Min and Shuhua.”

“I’ll stay!” Yuqi called, Soyeon nodding.

“Okay, okay. Mac?”

“I’ll stay too,” he took Soyeon’s hand, helping her off the train.


She stumbled off, falling into Miyeon, both of which were grabbed by Mac.


“I’ll talk to them. You stay back here with these two,” he let go, striding over to the other side of the platform.

Yuqi was busy kicking a pebble, that fell onto the rails. She walked over to stare at it. “Bitch.”

“Yuqi,” Miyeon reprimanded, placing a hand on her shoulder and guiding her away from the platform, accidentally walking into Soyeon, who squeaked. “Sorry Soyeon-ah,” she sighed, squatting beside her.

“Can I tell you a secret?” she whispered. Miyeon nodded. “It’s Yuqi’s birthday the day after tomorrow. In your guide there’s a street with a dog café. We’re going,” she threatened.

“I see. That sounds wonderful. Why is it a secret?”

“Shh! She doesn’t know!” She glanced towards her, who was talking to Mac.

“Right…”

The next train arrived, Minnie stepping out of it with Shuhua in hand. Shuhua waved with a grin, Minnie squeezing her playfully.

“Next time, call for help if you need it,” she patted her head, Soyeon joining her side.

“The others left. We’ll just follow up the street and into the mall,” Miyeon said, leading them out. Shuhua ran up to Minnie.

“Thank you for coming back for me,” she babbled. Minnie took her hand, holding it as they made their way out of the station.

“I have to. Imagine if we go back to Korea without you?” she joked, Shuhua hugging her front once they’d emerged. Minnie rubbed her back, watching Yuqi and Soyeon come out of the station. “So, you three are off to do what you like. Come back to the meeting point in a few hours. All the information is on KakaoTalk.”

Shuhua pulled away from her, the trio running out into the road.

“I hope they make it out alive,” Miyeon joked, Minnie coming up behind her as a strong wind blew.

“Not the best day to wear a short skirt,” she called out.

“Ugh. I know. I didn’t check the forecast,” she groaned.

“The restaurant is this way,” Mac gestured, dragging them across the road and straight inside.

Having found a table, they settled in the same formation as they had been at breakfast, Minnie ‘ooh’ing and ‘ahh’ing to each item.

“Yah, they have everything! I’m getting a Thai milk tea,” she decided.

“What are you eating, Nich? You always do this, and then you eat mine.”

She whined. “Pad Kee Mao,” she decided.

“What are half of these saying?” he sighed. “Miyeon, can you translate?”

“I’m not… sure…” she mumbled. "Min, you can read all of this?"

"No. I'm going off pictures and vibes. That one is short... so... Pad Thai!"

“Well, I hope they have everything.”

“Order for me,” Miyeon panicked as the waiter came over.

“But you speak Japanese!”

“N-no…”

As Mac began to order, Minnie turned to look at Miyeon, who was cracking her knuckles under the table.

“So, how do you feel about him?” she whispered.

“What?”

“About Mac. What are you thinking?”

“What do you mean…? He’s a nice guy-“

“Do you like him?!” she pressed.

“No!” Miyeon groaned. “No, not like that. What made you think that?”

“I was just asking!” she whined.

“Fine, fine, but… no, sorry,” Miyeon dismissed.

“Forget I said anything.”

“Hey, wha-“


Mac turned back.

“You’re going to get ill.”

“What do you mean?” Minnie pouted.

“It’s Thai milk tea. You always get ill.”

“Oh? Did you tell him that too?” Miyeon turned to her, concerned.

Minnie rolled her eyes. “That was only because they used heavy cream. Who uses heavy cream in tea?!”

“My point still stands. Miyeon, I got you something with noodles because that’s what your name means and I was just going off of vibes because there is no way in hell that I was understanding that menu,” he informed.

“I like noodles,” she shrugged, their drinks arriving immediately.

Minnie dove for her tea, sucking it up to a full mouthful, before stiffening up. Her face paled.

“Oh my god,” he groaned. “Now what?”

She mumbled something with her full mouth. “I think she said she thinks this will make her ill,” Miyeon tried to translate.

“Okay, swallow it and give me the glass,” he gave in. “The things I do for you,” he passed her his lime tea.

Miyeon looked between them. “If anything, I’d think he likes you,” she whispered. Minnie rolled her eyes.

“No,” she kicked her leg. “That’s stupid!

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“I told Soyeon and Yuqi to come over tonight!” Minnie threw open the hotel room door, a bag of snacks in hand. “I grabbed some stuff from the seven eleven.”

Miyeon emerged from the bathroom. “Cool. When are they coming?”

“Soon. You get ready for bed,” she dismissed, Mac following behind her as Miyeon shut the door.

“So, where am I putting all of this?” he gestured to his multiple bags.

“Just on the bed,” she pointed. Miyeon perked up. Who was she talking to?

“Have a good night, Nich.”

“Hey, can’t you watch with us?”

“I don’t really want to, but I also don’t want to be in a hotel room with an underage girl. It doesn’t help my plot.”

“Oh… I see,” she mumbled. “Okay, well, good night…”

Miyeon opened the door a little, peering outside. Minnie and Mac. Makes sense.

“Good night. Hey, we should probably call Mic at some point,” he whispered.

“I know. I’ve been texting him, but I really miss him.”

“We can call him tomorrow?” She nodded. “Fine. Remind me, if I forget.”

“Okay,” she smiled, watching him place the bags on the bed, before walking towards her. She wrapped her arms around him, squeezing him tightly.

He chuckled, kissing her forehead as he rocked her back and forth. “Whenever we do this, it reminds me of the day you were born.”

“Ew,” Minnie scowled, Mac sitting on the bed. She sat beside him, Mac pulling her into another hug.

“Can you imagine? I was ten years old, holding my little sister?”

“A bit younger,” she mumbled, wincing at each of his kisses. “This is so gross! Stop!”

He pulled her away. “You’ll always be your baby sister, you know? Even when you’re eighty years old living off a pension.”

“Stop! Go!” she groaned. He put her down, giving her one final hug. “Go!” she whined.

“Okay, okay,” he laughed, leaving her hotel room.

A few minutes later, Miyeon emerged. Minnie gawked at her.

“Even when you’re bare faced you’re gorgeous,” she muttered, Miyeon walking over and pecking her cheek.

“Cutie,” she giggled. “Who was here? You were talking to someone.”

“Mac. He was teasing me, that’s all,” she then pouted, Miyeon cooing at her tone of voice.

“Min, I told you. He likes you!”

“Stop! He doesn’t!” she threw herself back on the bed, pulling her clothes off and tossing them aside.

“I think he does,” she insisted. “He looks at you with so much affection. He teases you. That’s what men do when they like a girl!”

“That’s complete bullshit,” she crossed her arms, curling up in the bed. Miyeon lay next to her, pulling her down for a cuddle.

“Cutie Minnie,” she held her to her chest. Minnie looked up at her, about to say something, before a knock on the door sounded.

“Oh shit,” Minnie mumbled, throwing on her pyjamas and running to collect the tossed around clothes. Miyeon walked over to open the door.

“Hey kids,” she sighed, Yuqi and Soyeon running in with their pillows. They both dove at Minnie, who was panting on the bed after her mini-workout.

“Film night!” Yuqi yelled, Miyeon chuckling under her breath as she locked the door.

“Okay, now girls, remember, you can’t tell your parents we’re doing this,” Minnie recited.

“Dude!” Miyeon shoved her. “It’s fine. We just need you out of here by eleven.”

“How long’s the film?” Yuqi turned to Soyeon.

“Ninety minutes bu- WOAH SNACKS!”

“Calm down,” Miyeon reminded, sliding back into the bed.

Soyeon and Yuqi turned to look at each other before nodding, parting either ways and sitting on the edge of the bed.

“What? Why? Come in the centre,” Minnie patted the space between Miyeon and herself.

Yuqi sat beside Minnie, who pulled her closer. “You’ll fall,” Miyeon called out to Soyeon, who was dangling herself on the very side.

“I live life on the edge,” Soyeon mumbled, Miyeon rolling her eyes and placing her between her legs. Minnie lurched over, dragging the massive bag of snacks.

“Take what you want. There’s chocolate, sweets, cookies, cakes, and ice cream. Eat the ice cream first, please,” Minnie combed her fingers through Soyeon’s long, dark hair.

“Ugh, I can’t wait! Tonight will be so fun!”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

Minnie woke up the next morning, her alarm blaring “07:00” way too brightly for her liking. She groaned, realising her arms were around a body, and as she came to her senses, she realised she’d fucked up.

“Sh-shit, Miyeon,” she sat up groggily. “M-Miyeon, we didn’t send the kids back.” She wanted to fully turn, but Yuqi’s arms were around her like a vice grip. “God, she needed a teddy bear, didn’t she?!”

“I’m normally her teddy bear,” Soyeon babbled back, rolling over Miyeon, before wrapping her arms around Minnie’s waist too.

“Oh god,” she whined. “Both of you, get off me!”

“Yuqi’s asleep. I’m being annoying.”

“MIYEON?!”

“H-huh…? Where are you, jagiya?” Miyeon sat up, looking at the three sleeping figures on the same pillow. She sighed, pulling away the first girl’s hair, and then Minnie’s, and then a red mess at the end. “Oh, right,” she groaned. “Soyeon, go back to your room.”

“No!”

“Why?” she complained.

“I like it here. You’re warm and this bed is comfy. And you touch people’s hair when you sleep! It’s nice,” she turned to Miyeon.

Miyeon rolled her eyes. “Is Yuqi at least awake?”

“No!” Minnie sobbed. “I can’t breathe.”

She rubbed the back of Yuqi’s head, cradling her, before realising that the only reason she was experiencing pain was the fact that Yuqi was entirely off the bed altogether, hanging on purely because of Minnie. Minnie pulled her back onto the bed, Yuqi burying her face in her chest.

“I no wanna go,” she whined.

“Come on,” Minnie prised her off herself. “Soyeon, come here and help me get her off me,” she lay their defeatedly.

“No,” Soyeon grinned, Miyeon walking around to the other side of the bed.

“Unnie, let me stay!” Yuqi lay on top of Minnie.

“I mean, it’s only seven… they can stay a little long-“

“They were meant to leave at eleven Miyeon!” Minnie sighed. Miyeon lay back in bed, Soyeon crawling back into Miyeon’s arms.

“Can we sleep here every night?” Soyeon wondered out loud.

“No!”
“No.”

“Aw…”

“Hey, ssaems, are you two dating?” Yuqi asked out of the blue.

“No… why?” Minnie asked, stroking her hair back.

“I don’t know. You just give those vibes. Soyeon and I are dating. I like Soyeon very much.”

“I like Yuqi too,” Soyeon added, “which is key in a relationship. But you two also look like you really love each other. Do you have anything-“

“We’re just good friends,” Miyeon clarified. “Sorry to break it to you, although… I guess we kind of knew about you two.”

“I know,” Soyeon shrugged. “But still. I just wanted to know if you guys were, and you’re not.”

“You look good together,” Yuqi added. “But Miss Kim also looks good with Mr Yontak so I can’t tell.”

“You guys ship us?!” Minnie made a face.

“Yeah?” Soyeon sat up. “You’re the only two Thai teachers, and you get along. We see you in his office all the time-“

“That was because he had my lunch,” she whined.

“Why? Your friend brings you lunch?”

“Before. I didn’t know Miyeon, and I didn’t have many friends, so I would eat alone in the office. But that was for like… a few days! I’m not a loner.”

“Aw… that’s so sad. You could’ve sat with us!” Yuqi offered.

“Be for real, Yuqi,” Soyeon groaned.

“Well, okay maybe not… but… aw…”

“Yeah, that’s a little sad,” Miyeon agreed. They turned to face the ceiling, Miyeon’s arm gently placing itself against her stomach. Her fingertips just reached the hem of Yuqi’s side, where she rested her hand.

“I think you should go on a date with Yontak,” Soyeon suggested.

“Who?” Minnie asked.

“Either of you. You both work. Hey, threesome,” Yuqi smirked.

“That’s inappropriate, Yuqi, no,” Minnie reprimanded softly, with a kiss on the head. “You’re right, it really is comfortable here.

Minnie’s phone buzzed. Miyeon leant over to hand it to her. She narrowed her eyes, reading the notification.

“Oh…”

“What?”

“Mac was waking everyone up. Said you two aren’t in your room.”


She sighed, raising the phone to her ear. “Hey.”

“We’ve lost two girls.”

“No, no, they’re with us.”

“What? Still?! Didn’t your movie session end well before midnight?!”

“We… fell asleep… during it.”

“During it?! That’s illegal!”

“They’re fine! We’re not planning on murdering them! Just, log them in. They’re with us.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“Ugh!” Minnie groaned. “Yuqi, say something to Yontak-ssaem.”

“I failed chem last year.”

“I know you- okay, where Soyeon?”

“Don’t laugh at me for my vegetables again.”

“Right… fine. I mean… do you have any snacks left?”

“Everything but the ice cream,” Miyeon called back, Soyeon burying her face in the crook of her neck.

“Okay. I’ll see you in a bit. Love you Nich.”

“Yeah that,” she mimicked, hanging up

“See? He said ‘I love you’!” Yuqi perked up.

“No, Yuqi-yah!”

“Please date him!” Soyeon gave her puppy eyes.

“Ugh, fine, guys, I need to tell you this because I can’t keep quiet any longer.”

“You’re already dating?!” Yuqi asked.

“No! Mac’s- Mac’s my brother!” she sighed. “He’s a lot, lot older than me, so the dynamic’s odd, but-“

“Oh my god…” Miyeon whispered.

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“No, what?”

Miyeon blushed. “I saw you talking to him last night. I thought you were making out-“

“Miyeon?!”

“Sorry, it was the angle!”

“And then you had the audacity to ask me who was there?!”

“If you lied then my suspicions were true, right?”

She rolled her eyes. “He’s very… affectionate.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“How did you sleep?!” Shuhua asked excitedly, as the group of four managed to reach breakfast.

“Great! Cho-ssaem kisses people when she’s asleep,” Soyeon ran to her, Miyeon smacking her forehead.

“What?!” Shuhua gasped, Miyeon coming up behind them.

“Girls, are you sitting with Kim-ssaem and I?”

“Yeah!” Yuqi exclaimed, diving for a table of six to drop her bag off. Minnie followed her, Miyeon taking Soyeon, who took Shuhua, who shouted for Soojin, who ignored her, choosing to be with her other friends.

“Soojin is a bitch!”

“Shuhua, we don’t use that word,” Minnie told her off, Miyeon helping them arrange their things and handing them trays. “Kids,” she sighed as she passed her, Miyeon laughing under her breath.

“Did you see Mac?” she leant towards her.

“No, actually. I’m sure he’s fine,” she smiled, watching Yuqi put everything without vegetables on Soyeon’s plate. “They’re adorable.”

“Right?” Miyeon watched them. “Quite fearless, though.”

“The audacity to ask about our relationship?” she giggled, taking some of everything before walking back to their table, Shuhua still sitting there. “Baby, what’s wrong?” she sat beside her.

Shuhua looked up. “Soojin didn’t come,” she pouted.

“Oh, Shuhua,” she sighed. “Go and get some food. I’m sure Soojin will spend time with you later, when we go out, okay?”

She nodded sadly, walking up to the breakfast bar as Yuqi returned.

“You give nice hugs,” she decided, as she sat down. “Are you sure Soyeon and I can’t come back tomorrow?”

“Sorry, but I don’t want to get into trouble because you wanted a hug,” she shrugged. Soyeon ran over to them, taking a seat beside Minnie. “You don’t want to be with her?”

“I wanted a hug,” she shrugged, wrapping her arms around her side.

Minnie chuckled. “Alright fine, you can come back tonight. Let’s actually watch the movie this time.”

“What movie?” Miyeon came beside Yuqi, dragging a chair out. “Where’s Mac?”

“Jeez, you ask about him a lot,” Minnie snorted. “The one we didn’t watch last night. They’re coming back.”

“Min! I thought you said not to!” she whined. “Having said that, they did keep the bed toasty.”

Shuhua joined, finally. “Oh. Soojin and I knocked on your door and you guys weren’t there,” she tugged at Minnie’s top.

“What?” Minnie frowned, pulling away from her.

“Nothing. It just looks pretty,” she wrapped her arms around her right arm. “You’re left handed, aren’t you? Wait! You both are!”

“Really?” Miyeon turned to Minnie. “How didn’t I notice that?”

“I noticed because I did!” Shuhua shouted unnecessarily, Minnie hushing her quickly.

“We were watching a film with Cho-ssaem and Kim.”

“Am I just Kim to you?!” Minnie whined.

“What?! Lucky!”

“Join us!”

“No!”
“No!”

“You’re both already on thin ice,” Miyeon added with a glare.

“It’s okay. I want to be with Soojin,” she shrugged.

“Well, I’m glad we’ve all found our pairings.”

Chapter Text

“You know, I was thinking,” Miyeon whispered, arms wrapped around Minnie’s waist as they rode the subway. “I felt relieved when you told me about yourself and Mac. I don’t know why, but it felt satisfying.”

Minnie smiled, holding her closer to her chest. “You’re single, aren’t you?” She nodded. “Maybe it’s that jealous feeling when someone is in a relationship and you aren’t. I’m telling you- you should ask him out.”

“I know, but…” She sighed. “He’s nice, and caring, but he isn’t my type.”

“Oh? Who is your type then?” she smirked. “You never told me about this.”

Miyeon blushed. “Can I tell you a secret? Not like… Shuhua and Soyeon’s secrets. It’s something I haven’t told anyone ever, but I think I can trust you.”

“Why didn’t you ever tell anyone?” Minnie frowned, reaching a hand towards her left to stop Soyeon from falling onto a stranger.

Miyeon pulled her in closer. “I- I’ve never really felt… safe… before,” she admitted quietly. Minnie stared into her eyes.

“Miyeon-ah, what is it? You haven’t felt safe? It can’t be so bad,” her brows furrowed.

Miyeon’s eyes darted to the floor. “It’s scary, Min… You promise you won’t hate me? O-or judge me? I really don’t know how anyone would react to thi-“

“Miyeon-ah, you can trust me,” Minnie smiled warmly, tucking her hair behind her ear.

Miyeon licked her lips. “Hold me,” she whispered, Minnie placing a hand on the back of her head, guiding it to her shoulder. Miyeon shut her eyes, inhaling her perfume, arms tightening around her waist. Yuqi looked up from her phone, frowning when she noticed their position. She nudged Soyeon to look too.

“What, Miyeon?” Minnie asked gently. “You can whisper it.”

Miyeon gulped, leaning up to her ear. “I- I… I- I- I- I…” She pulled away to take a breath. “I’m s-sapphic.”

She pulled away quickly. Minnie stared at her. “What does that mean?”

“Oh, ugh,” Miyeon groaned, folding her arms across her chest, Minnie placing her arm around her back to hold her steadily. “I… I like women.”

She raised her eyebrows. “You’re a lesbian?” she mouthed. Miyeon winced. “Sorry. Is that wrong to say?”

“No, it’s not wrong,” Miyeon blushed. “I’ve just been scared to be so… upfront about it.”

“That’s fine,” Minnie smiled. “Hey, you thought I’d dislike you for who you like? No! I like you because you’re kind and funny, and you look after me as if I’ve known you forever.”

“Forever,” she repeated. “Right? It feels like I’ve known you forever too. Th-that’s why I could tell you. Only my mother knows. I realised after the last guy I dated, that something wasn’t right. She noticed too, and when I realised I had the biggest breakdown ever.”

“But, Miyeon, did you see me badmouth Soyeon and Yuqi for whatever mess they’re in?” she laughed, Miyeon blushing and hugging her once more.

“I thought you just dismissed it ‘cause they’re kids,” she hid her face in her shoulder. “That’s… why I’m not after Mac. He’s just not… he’s not the one for me.”

“But you said you were jealous when you saw me and him together,” Minnie tilted her head.

Miyeon panicked. “N-no, as in, you know. Just seeing your friend in a relationship…”

“Oh! Right. I forgot we spoke about it,” she shook her head. “Miyeon, you’re still the beautiful woman who makes me feel like someone when I’m in Korea. You’re my best friend, and I don’t have many here.”

“You’re mine too,” Miyeon nodded. “But, it’s still okay if we share a bed, right? I- I’m not into you, or anything. I don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”

“Hey, hey. If I felt uncomfortable around you, that would be far from your problem,” she laughed. “I’ll squeeze you as much as I can, provided Soyeon doesn’t get in the way,” she joked, Miyeon nudging her side.

“Thank you, Kitty.”

“Kitty?” she giggled.

Miyeon nodded. “That was scary,” she sighed. “And, we’re at our stop,” she pulled away from her, reaching for Shuhua, Minnie for Soyeon.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

Minnie turned to Yuqi, whose head was rested on her shoulder. The film had long come to an end, the silence in the room providing some peace to the four women.

To her right, Soyeon and Miyeon were lying on their sides with their backs towards them, Soyeon tucked up against the older, whose front was right against her back. Miyeon’s arm wrapped around her waist, their knees bent like spoons, her lips against the back of the younger’s head.

“They fall asleep like that in Soyeon’s studio,” Yuqi whispered, breaking the silence. Minnie turned to her. “Like that,” she pointed. “They get tired, and there’s no windows in there, so you never really know what time of day it is. Soyeon’s father put a sofa big enough for them to sleep like that, so Miyeon holds her so she doesn’t roll off.

“Miyeon?” Minnie asked.

“We do call her ‘Miyeon’ outside of school. She’s not just her teacher. And Soyeon tells me everything, so it feels like I’m there too, sometimes,” she sat back. “I’m sorry. I haven’t done much coursework since we landed.”

“That’s okay,” Minnie smiled. “Are you enjoying the trip?”

She nodded tiredly, lying her pillow down, so she could rest her back. Minnie joined her, slipping under the sheets and facing her properly. “She worked really hard to create it,” she acknowledged. “Thank you for coming, by the way. We see everything, and I did wonder if she was going to be alone. She doesn’t know these teachers well, apart from Mr Yontak. I was worried she’d be by herself. She’s strict, and a little annoying in class, but we have a soft spot for her. She’s our teacher.”

“You’re very kind,” she stroked her hair back. “She’s fine,” she reassured her. “After all, it was you three that brought us together. Who knew some advice from some random eighteen year olds could bring me to my closest friend?”

“You like her a lot, right? That’s good. It would’ve been a fail if you hated each other,” she giggled. “I’m quite tired now. I think I’ll sleep.”

“Of course,” Minnie nodded, switching off the TV. She quickly turned around, lowering her lips against Miyeon’s cheek. “Night, baby,” she whispered softly, her hand brushing her arm. Yuqi smiled at the interaction, as Minnie turned back.

“Are you sure you’re not in a relationship?” she asked genuinely. Minnie made herself comfortable, Yuqi lifting her head and placing it against her chest. Minnie hummed, her arms spreading around her.

“I don’t know,” she admitted. “And I shouldn’t really be telling you this-“

“This isn’t school, and we aren’t those kinds of teenagers,” she reassured her. Minnie shut her eyes, feeling her watch buzz as midnight struck.

“Happy birthday,” she whispered. Yuqi lit up.

“Hey, how did you know?! That’s so cool!” she smiled, Minnie lying her head on the pillow and pulling Yuqi into a hug.

“Someone special told me,” she giggled. “Miyeon told me. Soyeon told her.”

“Wow…” she blushed. “I’m an adult!” she squealed. “Now only Shuhua’s left, and we’re a four for four!”

Minnie pecked her temple, hugging her tightly. “Have a good one, kid.”

“When’s yours?”

“Same date next month,” she ran her fingers through her hair.

“I no longer feel tired,” she sighed. “I’m so happy that it’s my birthday!”

Minnie groaned. “Jeez, it is quite hot, isn’t it?” she mumbled. She placed Yuqi down, slipping out of bed to adjust the temperature of the room.

“Hmm…” Yuqi sat up, Minnie sitting back down beside her.

“Hey, you sleep. I think I’ll go to Mac’s room.”

Yuqi lit up. “Can I come?!”

“To… your chemistry teacher’s hotel room?” she made a face.

“I just want a walk!” she insisted.

Minnie nodded, standing back up to grab a room key, kissing Yuqi’s forehead as she led her out of the room.

“Come,” she mumbled, raising her elbow so Yuqi’s arm could link into it.

“How far away is he?” she asked.

“We have to go up a floor,” she called the elevator, that already happened to be on their floor. “What did you think of the movie by the way?”

“Soyeon has good taste,” she nodded. “Also, you didn’t tell me about you and Miyeon!”

Minnie chuckled, walking out when the door opened. Yuqi sprung behind her, Minnie knocking on the first door they saw.

A few seconds later, it opened.

“Nicha,” he mumbled, having clearly been asleep. “A-and Yuqi? What do you want?”

“To talk,” she shrugged.

He sighed. “I don’t want Yuqi in here. It’s not appropriate,” he groaned.

“She’s with me,” she took her hand, following him inside. Yuqi looked around inquisitively, although it looked the same as Minnie and Miyeon’s room from before. “You know, Yontak isn’t our surname.”

Yuqi’s head whipped around. “So what is?!”

“Yontararak,” he sat in his bed, Minnie taking the floor, patting the chair for Yuqi to sit. “So you guys couldn’t sleep either? It’s too warm today. Where’s Miyeon?”

“She’s asleep with Soyeon.”

He nodded. “Nicha, come here.”

“Nicha?” Yuqi mumbled.

“That’s her real name,” he explained, Minnie climbing onto his bed. He kissed her cheek, Minnie making a disgusted face as her held her tightly.

“It’s Yuqi’s birthday today,” Minnie looked back.

Mac glanced at his phone. “Shit. It’s already midnight?!” Minnie nudged him with a glare. “Oh. Sorry.”


He stood up, walking over to the mini fridge, Minnie digging in her bag

“What’s happening?” Yuqi tilted her head, Mac emerging with a small roll cake slice, that Minnie shoved a candle in.

“How do we light this thing?” Mac wondered, looking around for matches.

“Sorry, uh… why are you guys carrying around a birthday starter pack?”

“The cake was a snack, and the candles… it’s her birthday soon, so I’m prepared.”

“Aw!” Minnie squealed, Mac rolling his eyes as he found the box, lighting the candle.

“We won’t sing. Blow it out quickly so the fire alarm doesn’t go off,” he advised, Yuqi quickly blowing it out with her eyes shut.

“Thank you guys,” she blushed, Minnie tossing the candle in the bin, reaching around and hugging her from behind.

“Did you make a wish?”

“Of course!” she smiled. “Seriously, this is so impromptu. Thank you so much!”

“Don’t worry about it,” Mac yawned. “You should go to bed, though. Tomorrow is a busy day!”

“Why?” she looked up from the cake, that she’d already finished. “We’re just walking down a street.”

Mac stopped, Minnie glaring at him once again. “Uh, you know! An exciting street!”

“Okay…” she scratched her head.

“Come, let’s go,” Minnie threw the wrapping away, helping her stand up. “Thanks for making us tired, Mac.”

“Always a pleasure,” he punched her unnecessarily on their way out, Minnie squeaking and kicking him back.

“I don’t have siblings, but you guys seem close,” Yuqi whispered as they left the room.

“We weren’t before, but they left when I was young, and I hadn’t seen them for a while.”

“They?”

“Oh, him, and my other brother. They’re twins. You know how they’re older than me.” She nodded. “They left for Korea when I was much, much younger. Mic, my other brother, returned shortly after, but I hadn’t seen Mac for a long time, so when I came out here, I didn’t really want to leave him, you know?”

They entered Minnie’s room, climbing back into bed. Minnie slipped beside Miyeon, who was still clutching onto Soyeon. Yuqi came up beside her, turning on her side.

“Miyeon’s the stereotypical attractive Korean women that probably got hundreds of guys back in high school. I’ve… never dated in my life.”

“Really?!” she whispered. “You’re so pretty! How did no one get you?! Oh… you’re a tough one-“

“No! No, I was in a girls’ boarding school. Who’s supposed to lust over me?!”

“The gay ones?” she shrugged. “Honestly, at first, I was concerned that you wouldn’t accept me and Soyeon. We’re not… in a country where girls dating girls is a ‘good thing’, and I was concerned if you were part of that crowd that frowned upon it.”

“No,” she turned to face her. “Of course there’s nothing wrong with it.”

“I still think it’s wild that you’ve been single your whole life.”

“I’ve had much less action than whatever you and Soyeon have… going on.”

“Hey! We’re dating!”

“I can’t tell if you’re being legitimate or if you’re kids being kids,” she shrugged. Yuqi pouted. “Okay, fine,” she smiled.

“Have you had your first kiss?” She shook her head. “Hug?”

“No.”

“HELD HANDS?!”

“With who?!”

Yuqi paused. “Did you have crushes?”

“Not really. I probably lied to my friends once to sound interesting.”

“That’s what Soyeon and I did. We lied about guys who didn’t exist and then showed each other up. It was embarrassing, but worth it.” Yuqi stared at her. “Or are you scared?” her eyes softened. She raised her hand up to stroke her cheek, Minnie staring back at her.

They stayed silent, listening to the quiet breaths of the others. Minnie shut her eyes, feeling Yuqi’s caring gaze lie upon her.

“Don’t be scared of love, Minnie,” she whispered.

Minnie opened her eyes, Yuqi smiling back at her. “It’s complicated.”

“Do you trust me?”

“Not particularly.”

“Who brought you and Miyeon together?” she reminded. Minnie remained silent. “You’re right. She’s like, the queen bee of queen bees. All the male teachers want her attention, but there’s a reason why she doesn’t go for them, and goes for you instead.”

“She doesn’t ‘go for me’, Yuqi. She just wanted a friend.”

“I don’t think friends hold each other the way you did on the train earlier,” Yuqi lay on her back. “I think she likes you,” she whispered. “And I know, she looks really straight, but let’s be real. It’s always those ones that end up deceiving you!”

“I know she likes women,” Minnie sighed. “It doesn’t mean that she likes me.”

“You like her, don’t you?” she grinned. Minnie’s eyes dropped. “Hey, you can tell me,” she whispered. “I don’t think I need to tell her. Clearly whatever she told you then was monumental enough for her to trust you. I think you like her, but I’m sure she likes you.”

“What are you? Tinder for teachers?!” she groaned. “I don’t want to ruin anything. Miyeon…” she sighed. “I love her, but it’s not romantic at all.”

“Didn’t you just try to kiss her, like, twenty minutes ago?”

“No!”

“Just checking,” she shrugged. “Chocolate.”

“Huh?”

“Your eyes are like chocolate. So is your hair.”

“Are you flirting with me?”

“If I call you ‘chocolate’ from now on, maybe I’m not,” she smirked. “Maybe you’re oblivious to all the guys that hit on you. I swear I saw the other teachers in the engineering lounge eyeing you up and down.”

“I’m not stupid, but I don’t count that! That’s just… men who can’t hold it together. They’re not who I’m looking for so I don’t care about them.”

“At least you know you’re pretty.” Minnie rolled her eyes. “What?! We told you that, like, the day we met,” she laughed, Minnie blushing and hiding her face in her shoulder. “Do you love me?”

“No.”

“Come on! It’s my birthday!”

“Fine,” she groaned. “What?”

“Go out on one date with her. If you kiss, you owe me a bar of chocolate.”

“Sorry, bribery?! Of course not!”

“Please?! I think it’ll make her day more than mine. Just you two. No Yontaktaktak-ssaem.”

“Close enough,” she mumbled. “It’s not that, Yuqi. I don’t want her to think that I think she likes me just because she came out to me!”

“She came out? Is that what she said?!” Minnie nodded slowly. “Oh… So she really is gay. Shit… that explains a lot.”

“Like what?!”

“She’s bitchy in class. Not in like a bitchy way, but she’s still a bitch.”

“Swear one more time-“

“This isn’t school!” Yuqi shrugged. “But… if she really told you that, then she really does love you.”

“’Love’ is a strong word-“

“You don’t see the way she looks at you. And the look on her face when you told her you’re related to Yontakakaka-ssaem.”

“Little worse,” she mumbled, “but it’s not the way it seems, trust me.”

“She said she felt relieved!”

“You heard our conversation?!”

“No one else was talking in that carriage,” Yuqi deadpanned. “She was scared that you were into him and not her!”

“That’s not right. She kept suggesting I go for him-“

“Because that’s what friends do! She wouldn’t gatekeep you!”

Minnie pursed her lips. “Maybe you’re right,” she sighed, Yuqi pulling her closer.

“And now you have to hug me all night because I earnt it,” she ordered. Minnie chuckled, kissing her cheek.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Sex or chocolate?”

“Sex!”
“Chocolate!”

Soyeon and Yuqi turned to each other, disgruntled.

“What do you know about sex, Soyeon?”

“So you want to get fat? Fatty.”

“Hey! Be nice! It’s her birthday!” Miyeon shouted at her, the pair cowering behind Shuhua, who had asked the dreaded question to begin with.

The five were back around the dining the table, Shuhua having successfully dragged Soojin with her this time.

“How did you sleep?” Miyeon asked, Minnie sitting beside her. Yuqi watched them closely, the way Miyeon adjusted her hair and clothes as she sat down.

“Well. Yuqi wasn’t falling off the bed this time,” she chuckled.

“You look so different without a fringe!” Shuhua called out. “Did you straighten them out?!”

“I pinned them back,” she laughed. “I don’t look that different.”

“I wouldn’t recognise you,” she shrugged.

Miyeon chuckled, noticing Soyeon pouting at her plate, having finished all her buns, and noticing that there didn’t seem to be any more in the bar. She sighed, placing one of her own and one of Minnie’s on her plate. She looked up with joy, before Shuhua stole Soyeon’s and shoved it in her mouth.

“Yah,” Soyeon shoved her.

“What? Finders keepers?” she shrugged, Soojin telling her off with a glare.

“See, this is what I put up with,” she whispered to Minnie, who was laughing at the interaction.

Mac came around from behind, placing a plate with a few pancakes beside Yuqi’s plate, before walking off to the teachers’ table. Yuqi grinned, taking a picture on her phone.

“Oh? They do pancakes now?”

“Only for birthdays,” Minnie squeezed Yuqi’s cheek.

“Ah,” Miyeon nodded slowly. “I hope you enjoy today. It’s nice to spend your birthday on holiday.”

“This is far from a holiday! Why am I doing more studying here than normal?!” Shuhua complained.

“Shu, that means you don’t study at all,” Minnie sighed. She turned to Miyeon, who was staring at her empty plate. “You not hungry?”

“Not very,” she mumbled, twirling her long, blonde hair over her black leather jacket.

“Ssaem, you have good style,” Yuqi pointed out. “You wear nice clothes.”

“Thanks,” she blushed a little.

“I’m done!” Soyeon stood up, Miyeon with her. “I left my phone in your room. Can I get it?”

“Come with me,” Miyeon took their trays, handing them to a staff member. “Kitty, when they’re done, wait in the lobby with the tour guide,” she placed a hand on her shoulder, the younger woman nodding. Miyeon left quickly, Soyeon holding her hand before running out excitedly.

Walking into the empty lift, Soyeon wrapped her arms around her from the front, Miyeon smiling as she leant her back against the mirror, hugging her back.

“Did you sleep well?” she asked, pulling away a little.

“Really well. You didn’t let go of me the entire time! Yuqi and Kim-ssaem were up until late, though.”

“Really? You were awake too?”

“Yeah, for a bit. They were talking about all sorts of things, and then they left, and then they came back. I thought you were awake. You said her name once or twice.”

“I said her name? I was asleep.”

“Sleep talking,” she shrugged. “She really cares about you, though. I heard them talking about you quite a bit.”

“What did they say?” she panicked, walking out of the lift.

“I think… I shouldn’t-“

“Soyeon-ah, please?” she frowned, unlocking the door.

“All I really heard was Kim-ssaem-“

“Minnie.”

“Minnie telling her that you like women. Which she didn’t seem too surprised about. Oh, Yuqi and I are dating, by the way!... I- Is there a problem?”

She turned back around, Miyeon staring at her, crestfallen.

“Shoot… was I not supposed to know? Sorry! I- I figured it wasn’t a big deal because, so do Yuqi and I,” she grabbed her phone, rejoining her at the door frame. “Did I say something? Miyeonnie?”

“No…” she looked down, pulling away from the door.

“Miyeonnie, what happened?” she took her hands.

“Nothing… I just… I told Minnie it was a secret. It was scary for me to tell her… and she so easily told a pupil.”

“I mean, she probably said it for a good reason. I think a few seconds before that Yuqi was suggesting that she asks you out. Oh… I’m saying too much.”

“No, carry on,” she begged, walking back to the lift slowly.

“Okay… I think… Minnie said she’s never been in a relationship before, and that she doesn’t know if she’s supposed to take me and Yuqi seriously, which, rude, but I digress. I think Yuqi said she thinks you like Minnie but I don’t know. I think I fell asleep then.”

Miyeon stared at the floor. “Okay…” she mumbled.

Soyeon watched her, leaning in and lifting her chin with her finger. “Do you agree?”

She shook her head. “That just felt a little exposing,” she placed her arms around herself, walking into the lift. “I thought I could trust her-“

“You can,” she insisted. “Yuqi hypothesised it before she said anything. And it’s just us, Miyeon. You’re okay-“

“It’s just… the way she so easily told someone else. It’s not that. It’s the principle.”

Soyeon licked her lips. “Don’t be angry with her. She sounds like she really loves you. I don’t know if you guys have feelings for each other or not, but don’t push her away,” she advised. “She told Yuqi for a good reason.”

The lift reached the ground floor, Miyeon stepping out slowly.

“Hey!” Minnie sprung towards her. “The guide gave me this,” she handed her a chocolate bar.

Miyeon smiled a little. “Thanks, Kitty.”

She frowned. “Are you okay? Did something happen?”

“Nothing.”

Minnie nodded slowly, taking her hand in hers. Soyeon left for Yuqi, Minnie and Miyeon following the group out of the hotel.

Minnie sighed, the sun shining down on them.

“I love this weather,” she pulled her sunglasses on, Miyeon doing the same. “Jeez, you’re hot.”

“Thanks?” she mumbled. Minnie pulled her closer.

“Are you sure nothing happened?”

“Positive,” she nodded quickly, “but… Can I ask you something?”

“Sure.”

“Soyeon heard you and Yuqi last night. She told me she heard some things.”

Minnie turned to her. “Okay.”

“Uh… c-can I ask you about them?”

“Sure,” she smiled. “Miyeon, are you sure I didn’t do something wrong? You’ve been awkward. Tell me if I hurt you.”

“You told Yuqi about my sexuality. I told you it was private,” she mumbled.

Minnie gulped. “Oh… right. I’m sorry. It was tired. The conversation led to it.”

“Y-yeah, that’s what Soyeon defended you with, but, what was the conversation?”

Minnie blushed, sighing. “Yuqi… thinks we would look good together. She’s sure that you were interested in me, and that I am in you too… she asked me how I felt about it, and when I showed that I wasn’t too… opposed… to the idea, e-everything kind of fell in its place.”

“Not opposed to what?”

She licked her lips, staring at the ground. “I told her how I’ve been single my whole life. That set something off. She wondered if I was scared of relationships, and argued that you’re the kindest person she knows, who wouldn’t hurt me. I’m not scared, but she made me see things in you. That’s when I let it slip. I hadn’t thought about it, and I was explaining my thought process. She wasn’t wrong, but I’m sorry. It was insensitive.”

“So… she told you I’m interested in you?”

“Suggested, that you might be. She didn’t lie to me.”

Miyeon folded her arms, glancing up quickly when she heard her name being called. Shuhua was turning to look at her, her hand pointed over the railing of the bridge. She turned in that direction, noticing a few people in toy racing cars, zooming past them. She smiled.

“Do you want to do it?” she called with a laugh, Shuhua nodding excitedly.

“Don’t! She’ll kill us all!” Soojin yelled back.

She laughed, turning back to Minnie, who smiled too.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t want to make it awkward. I- I guess Yuqi’s not wrong. I really like you. I just didn’t want to tell you that yet. I thought one piece of information at a time would be more manageable.”

“So you like me?”

“I guess,” she turned away. Minnie nodded in satisfaction.

“Let’s take it slow,” she advised, squeezing her hand in hers. “Did I tell you how beautiful you are today? More than usual.”

Miyeon blushed. “I feel like a teenager with a new boyfriend,” she hid her face, Minnie nudging her playfully. “I don’t know when it happened. All of a sudden I started seeing you differently. But… I promise, I don’t want to hurt you. Even if it doesn’t work out, we’ll still be close.”

Minnie kissed her cheek, Shuhua catching sight of it and pretending to throw up. “Yah, you wish that was you and Soojin,” Soyeon kicked her, Shuhua play-crying.

“You won’t hurt me, Miyeon-ah. Yuqi just cares. I’m fine, really, and you aren’t everything I have in Korea, to take the pressure off your shoulders… Sorry, I’ve never been in a relationship before. I don’t know how good I am at managing people’s emotions.”

“Well, you’ve been everything to me,” Miyeon whispered, removing her sunglasses. “I want to hug you, but we’re walking right now.”

“When we come to a standstill,” she laughed. “Aren’t you warm in that jacket?”

“A bit cold, actually. I should’ve worn tights,” she gestured to her bare legs, which were mostly covered by boots anyway.

Minnie also removed the sunglasses, Miyeon finally able to see the warmth in her eyes. “I don’t want the kids with us tonight,” she whispered, as they were definitely in their vicinity. “Just you.”

Miyeon agreed with a small nod, pulling away from her to do a headcount, and reprimand a few students who weren’t following instructions.

“Hey,” a teacher behind Minnie spoke. She turned around. “I’m sorry. I don’t think we ever talked. I’m Mr Jin. I teach maths and physics, with Miyeon-ssi.”

“O-oh, hi, I’m-“

“Kim Minnie, I know. Everyone knows you,” he nodded. She blushed.

“Really? How?”

“You didn’t know? Really?” She shook her head in confusion.

“Is it bad?” she lowered her voice.

“No! No, you’ve just been with Miyeon a lot. She’s not easy to open up, so, the news did the rounds when we saw her really getting along with someone. I take it you’re good friends, then?”

“Yeah,” she nodded. “You’re looking at me like you need my help.”

“Right, uh… I don’t know how to ask this without it being a little awkward, but it’s been a few years and…” He cleared his throat. “I’m interested in her, but I don’t think she’s getting the message. I was wondering if you could talk to her. Maybe a date would be nice,” he asked.

Minnie pursed her lips. “I’m sorry… I don’t think I can. It’s not you, don’t worry. I think she’s seeing someone, that’s all.”

He nodded taking a step back as Miyeon returned. “Hey, is something wrong?” she frowned, placing an arm in front of Minnie protectively.

“Nothing, nothing,” he backed away, moving to his friend.

Minnie turned to her in confusion. “He just wanted to respectfully hit on you.”

“Hit on me?” she scoffed. “He harassed one of the teachers so badly that she had to leave,” she shook her head.

“Oh… right… Soyeon did mention that before,” she nodded slowly. “I’m sorry.”

“You didn’t know it was him,” she shrugged, wrapping her arms around her. Minnie reciprocated, just tall enough to rest Miyeon’s head on her shoulder. She laughed, about to pull away when they heard the snap of a camera. “H-huh?” Miyeon jumped, pulling away from her.

Shuhua grinned, watching a polaroid print out of her camera, before handing it to them.


“Y’all cuties,” she grinned, Soojin dragging her back to the group.

Minnie waved it in the air, smiling to herself as it developed. “And this is going on my bedroom wall,” she shoved it in her hidden pocket.

“Do I not get a say?” Miyeon teased.

“Hmm, maybe you don’t,” she giggled. “Thanks, Shushu,” she called, Shuhua squealing in response.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“You know who asks good questions? Shuhua,” Minnie mumbled, the pair having filled their baskets with new clothes. “Like, ‘sex or chocolate?’? Damn!”

“Well, you can’t answer that.”

“You know, Yuqi called me ‘chocolate’ in Chinese yesterday. Apparently my eyes and hair resemble it.”

“Aw, cute!” she giggled.

“What would you pick? Sex or chocolate?”

“I’ve only ever had straight sex.”

“And?”


Miyeon gagged, Minnie shoving her into a rack.

“Not in public!”

“You asked!” she laughed. “I want to try some things on,” she sighed, staring at her basket.

“We can give the baskets to the assistants,” she suggested, Miyeon doing so as they were speaking. They each grabbed a bunch of items, striding over to the changing rooms.

“I’m too tall for half this stuff,” Minnie sighed, staring the pair of jeans she’d fallen in love with.

“We can go into any room, right?” Miyeon asked, dragging Minnie into the same one as her. “Oh, it’s rather spacious.”

“You don’t want privacy?”

“You need a second opinion,” she shrugged, placing her things down and undressing right away.

Minnie choked, lurching to lock the door, before doing the same. She stared at herself in the mirror, and then at Miyeon behind her, who had already shoved on the first top.

“Buy,” she nodded.

“Hey! You’re not asking me?!”

“I don’t always need a second opinion.”

Minnie laughed, pulling on the first pair of jeans, that were definitely too short for her. “Ugh. Why?!” she cried, Miyeon stopping in her tracks, removing the face sheet to look at her.

“Hey, ask for a larger size.”

“This is one size only!” she whined, pulling them off with a pout. She lay on the soft carpet, staring at the ceiling. Miyeon had already tried on two skirts and two tops.

“I love this shop. I’m buying everything.”

Minnie turned to look at her. “They’re so cute,” she sighed. “Pink and bows and other cute shit. You look like an idol.”

Miyeon smirked, undressing and trying on the final pair of jeans, that she also smiled with satisfaction at. “Yep. I’m going broke,” she removed it, lying beside her on the floor. “We’ll go to another shop. You’re just taller than average. Or maybe everyone here is short.”

“Fine,” Minnie whined, Miyeon giggling. “Why do you call me ‘Kitty’? You never explained.”

“Oh! It’s because you look like a cat sometimes. A very happy, energetic cat.”

“Well, I’m not happy and energetic right now.”

Minnie pouted, Miyeon cooing, sitting up to kiss her cheek. Minnie blushed, pulling Miyeon closer, who kissed her over and over and over and over, until-

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“You’re acting awkward,” Yuqi called out, ignoring Soyeon, who was busy lamenting to Mac about how all the trousers were ‘still’ too big for her, as if he knew anything about women’s fashion.

“We’re not,” Minnie frowned, ignoring the massive bag of clothes in Miyeon’s hand out of jealousy.

“You know you have another two hours to shop, right? You can find stuff for yourself,” Yuqi shrugged. “Poor Soyeon looked like a tramp in everything she tried.”

“Yeah, that’s… worse,” Miyeon agreed. “We’re not awkward. Go and be with your friends,” she dismissed, Yuqi running back over to Soyeon.

Minnie and Miyeon turned around, walking to a more promising clothes store.

“I guess she didn’t notice the lipstick on the corner of your mouth,” Miyeon whispered into her ear, Minnie’s breath hitching. “You even look like you’ve just had your first kiss. I don’t know how she missed it.”

“Do you wish she hadn’t?!” Minnie snapped, already finding enough clothes to try on.

“They’re probably heading for the dog café,” Miyeon mumbled, taking the basket and holding it for her. “I need to wash my hair. I don’t think I can last any longer.”

“Same,” Minnie sighed, spraying some perfume into it. “Hey, after dinner, do you want to take a walk around the area before we go to bed?”

“Sure,” she nodded at her suggestion, stopping in front of a rack of skirts. “Hey, Min. Try this.”

“I have wide hips. I won’t-“

Miyeon shoved one in her hand. “Try it,” she insisted.

“Skirts are your thing. You do the cute stuff, and I do the sexy stuff,” she spelled out.

Miyeon nudged her. “Promise me,” she pushed her in the direction of the changing room.

“Hey, come in,” she took her hand, Miyeon following her into a cubicle, which was much smaller than before. They removed their shoes, Miyeon sitting on the fake grass floor as Minnie began to strip in front of her. “Throw money at me.”

“What?!”

“Throw money at me. It’s for the aesthetic,” Minnie deadpanned.

“What aesthetic?!”

“A stripper, obviously,” she shrugged, pulling on a top and a pair of jeans. “FUCK YES!”

“Shh,” Miyeon laughed. “They’re pretty. Get them. I’ll buy.”

“No! What?! You shelled out your whole salary at the last shop.”

“Okay, that’s an exaggeration,” Miyeon defended. “But I insist. Come now. We have places it be.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

Night finally came, the pair of women undressing in the bathroom, about to take a shower.

“You wanna do it together?”

“If you don’t mind,” Minnie whispered hesitantly, Miyeon dragging her in and closing the door, before switching it on. Minnie wrapped her arms around her as they both became soaked, meeting her lips for a deep kiss.

“I could kiss you forever,” Miyeon sighed.

“Me too. I didn’t know it was so fun,” she giggled, turning off the shower and rubbing shampoo into her hair. They continued to kiss, Miyeon pushing her against the wall with her body. They giggled. “Did you tell Yuqi and Soyeon not to come tonight?”

“I didn’t, but they’ll get the point if we don’t open the door, right?” Miyeon suggested, rubbing her hands over Minnie’s shoulders and stomach. “You’re so hot, baby,” she moaned.

Minnie kissed again, switching the shower back on and pulling her under it. Her eyes roamed her body, locking on her chest, and then stomach, and then crotch. Miyeon shoved her tongue into her mouth, Minnie squeaking and grabbing onto her shoulders for stability as they tasted each other’s mouths.

She shut her eyes, Miyeon taking control of her, before pushing her away. “Conditioner,” she pumped into her hands, running her fingers through Minnie’s hair, and then her own.

Having rinsed everything off, they stepped out, drying themselves and their hair, eyes locking in the mirror, before Miyeon grabbed her by the waist, pulling her straight out of the bathroom and onto the bed.

“Miyeon,” Minnie moaned, Miyeon spreading her legs and crawling between then, locking their lips once more. “Miyeon, I need you,” she panted.

She gasped and groaned, roaming her lips around her chest and shoulders. “You can’t be messy, baby. There’s only one bed.”

“I- I don’t know if I am,” she whined, arching her back as Miyeon’s lips came in contact with her nipples. “Miyeonnie, please…”

Miyeon nodded, grabbing a spare towel and placing it under Minnie. “Spread. Good girl,” she whispered.

“I’m so desperate,” she cried. “I- I feel it bubbling up inside of me!”

Her legs vibrated in anticipation, Miyeon’s hands roaming down to her thighs. “Minnie…” she gasped, feeling her arousal on her legs, Minnie spreading herself out even further, when there was a knock on the door.

“Fuck,” Minnie sat up, closing her legs and throwing Miyeon’s extra large hoodie over her head, that just reached her knees when covered up.

Miyeon licked her fingers, Minnie biting her bottom lip at the action, as she threw over her robe, running over to the door.

She swung it open, Yuqi and Soyeon walking straight in without a word.

“Guys,” Miyeon scratched her head awkwardly, as Yuqi tossed away the towel, climbing into the bed beside Minnie, Soyeon taking her other side.

Minnie paled, still catching her breath. “You’re looking at us weirdly,” Yuqi stared Miyeon down.

“We were busy,” she sighed.

“Doing what?!” she whined, hugging Minnie’s chest. Minnie gulped, pulling the duvet over herself awkwardly.

“We’re discussing exams and reports-“

“In a bath robe?” Soyeon made a face. “Pack it up.”

“No, seriously, guys. I’m sorry. Maybe tomorrow,” she smiled hopefully.

Soyeon nodded, dragging Yuqi out. “Okay!”

Miyeon closed the door quickly, throwing the robe off her body. She locked the door, walking over to Minnie, lifting her out of the bed, and replacing the towel.

“Where were we?” she kissed her lips. “Kitty?”

“Mhm?” she whined, gazing up at her with hooded eyes.

“Would you like me to use my fingers, or tongue?” she spoke slowly, staring back at her with an excited glint in her eyes.

“W-Whatever you prefer…”

Miyeon crawled down under her. “Minnie-ah, I just want to make you feel good, okay?” she stroked her thighs, lifting them up and spreading her apart. “It’s your first time. I want you to remember it.”

“I trust you,” Minnie nodded, Miyeon kissing her mound. She kneeled up to kiss her lips, tugging at her hair, allowing it to fall over her shoulders. Minnie’s mouth watered as she moved back down, taking her thighs in her hands.

Minnie covered her mouth with her hand, Miyeon lowering her lips to kiss her entrance, where a warm pool had settled over time. “My Kitty,” she dipped her tongue inside, thumbs gently brushing over her skin caringly, before one moved over to lift her clit, rolling it lovingly.

Minnie whined into her hand, unable to look down at Miyeon’s actions as she felt herself sink into the cloud of warm delight. “Ohh,” she sighed in relief, feeling her hot tongue run through her folds, swirling over her clit and down, inside of her. “This is perfect,” she whispered, each action Miyeon took being slow and regulated, as if each taste was expensive in itself.

“Minnie-ah, you should touch yourself here,” she looked up, taking her other hand and placing it on her chest. “You’re all mine, baby. Make yourself feel good.”

She nodded quickly, biting her bottom lip as she tugged at her nipple, Miyeon circling her clit firmly, sucking up her arousal. “Th-this is i-i-incredible,” she shut her eyes, the hot, wet feeling morphing from simply delightful to comforting, as each touch Miyeon gave made her feel even more relaxed than before.

Minnie began to ride her tongue, hips undulating over her mouth as her clit continued to spasm under Miyeon’s finger.

“You’re so weak for me,” Miyeon chuckled, rubbing her lower belly softly. “So boneless…” She kissed her clit, Minnie taking deep breaths as the pleasure grew. “You’re all mine, aren’t you?” She nodded uncontrollably. “Easy, easy,” she whispered, Minnie’s soft moans filling the room. “It’s okay! It’s okay,” she laughed, hearing the struggle in her little voice. “You’re doing fine.”

“I d-don’t know the words in K-Korean… I’m s-so close t-to…”

“I know, baby, I can feel it,” she kissed her thighs. “Just relax your whole body. I’ll take care of you,” she advised, Minnie letting go of the tension in her muscles. Miyeon continued to suck her, feeling her legs begin to tremble beside her. Her hand continued to circle her belly, the other moving to cup her thigh as her lips centred on her clit, sucking it sweetly.

Minnie’s moans grew in volume, raising higher and higher in pitch as her sucks grew in intensity, before finally bottoming out. “Miyeon!” she moaned, biting down on her hand as her body shook, hips trembling as Miyeon steadied her with both hands.


She let out a quiet sob, her liquids running out of her and against Miyeon’s mouth. Her legs continued to vibrate as Miyeon pulled away from between then, kissing her entrance one final time, before closing her up.

She reached over to the table, grabbing a tissue and lifting her legs by her ankles to wipe her down. Minnie remained lost in her dreams, Miyeon disposing of it, before crawling up to lie beside her.

“Did you fall asleep?” she giggled.

“No,” she sighed, turning to face her. “I still feel it spasming,” she smiled lazily. Miyeon pulled her into her arms, kissing her lips gingerly.

“Taste that?” She nodded. “That’s you,” she smiled, Minnie weakly pulling her back to kiss her once more, jamming their lips together. She opened her arms, Miyeon lying on top of her, their bodies moulding into each other.

Chapter Text

“Hey, I forgot about this camera I have. Can I try it on you?” Yuqi asked Minnie and Miyeon who were waiting in the lobby for day five of their tour. 

“Yeah, sure,” Miyeon nodded, Minnie moving closer to her.  

“YAH SOYEON-AH!” Yuqi suddenly bellowed, Soyeon appearing out of nowhere. “Can you direct them into a nice pose?” she asked sweetly. 

Soyeon nodding, moving forward to arrange the pair, Miyeon ending up holding Minnie from behind with one arm, Minnie leaning into her body, their heads resting against each other.  

Yuqi smiled, showing them the product. 

“So cute!” 

Minnie nodded. “You’re good at this,” she patted Yuqi’s head, Miyeon wrapping the other arm around Minnie too, squeezing her. 

“Can you send it to us? How would you?” 
 
“You can take one of those aesthetic pics on your phone, or Soyeon can just text you it when I can get it uploaded onto my laptop.” 
 
“Yeah, sounds good,” Miyeon smiled. 

“Oh, also,” Yuqi turned back, Soyeon smirking. “We kind of heard you guys last night. I hope it went well,” she grinned, before running off to the rest of the students. 

Minnie paled, turning to Miyeon, whose eyes were wide in fear. 
 

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧ 
 

“What did you hear?” Minnie whispered, voice trembling over no sound at all. 

The four were sitting in the back of the train away from everyone, Minnie having been inconsolable since finding out.   

Miyeon too didn’t know what to think, but her heart was too fixated on keeping Minnie calm. It was her first time, after all. It couldn’t be her last.  

“S-ssaem, it’s okay,” Soyeon placed a hand on her shoulder, Minnie visibly imploding by the second. 

“No!” her knee bounced in anxiety. “I’m s-so s-s-sorr-“ 
 
“Calm down,” Yuqi wiped her tear. “The only think we heard was you calling her name out. We didn’t think it was anything obvious, but after you told us you were ‘busy’, and Miyeon-unnie was in a bathrobe, we figured what you were up to.” 

 
Minnie stood up quickly, running into the next carriage alone. Yuqi stood up, Miyeon gesturing for her to let her be. 

“The thing is, she’d never done it before. It was her first time, and she was vulnerable… I’m just worried that she’s scared of herself now.” 

Yuqi’s eyes softened. “If I hadn’t known her…” She began, but didn’t finish her sentence. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you. It was a positive thing. You love Minnie, and we know how much she loves you too.”  

Soyeon placed a hand on her knee, shaking her head. She stood up, following in Minnie’s direction, Minnie sitting by herself in the empty carriage, face in her hands. 

“Minnie,” Soyeon sat beside her. “Don’t cry,” she pulled her into her side. 

“I can’t tell if it’s embarrassing or just wrong,” she mumbled. 

“Stop worrying. I’m just happy you and Miyeon are together.” 

Minnie peeled her face away from her hands. “It’s another thing to hear your teacher having sex,” she gritted her teeth, Soyeon patting her head. 

“Hey, we’re friends. It’s fine. Kitty.” 
 
Minnie looked up. “Kitty?” she repeated softly, Soyeon hugging her. 

“Come. Let’s not ruin your makeup,” they stood up, Soyeon taking her face in her hand, tidying up her face. 
 

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧ 

The crowd of children walked ahead of the teachers, following the tour guides and engaging with them animatedly. Miyeon and Mac stayed close to the back of the group, Minnie in the middle of a conversation with Soojin towards the middle. 

“Hey, Miyeon-ah… a word?” he mumbled hesitantly. 

“Yeah? What’s wrong?” she turned to him, moving a little away from the students.  

“Sorry, I- uh…” he scratched his head nervously. 

“Don’t worry,” she laughed. 

He pursed his lips. “I was wondering if maybe… you’d like to go out some time?” 
 
“Oh! We arranged the musical, didn’t we?” she smiled brightly. 

“Right! Yes, but…” he looked down. 

Miyeon’s face fell slowly, as it hit her. “Oh, like that,” she whispered. He nodded. 

“Sorry. It’s a little embarrassing.” 
 
“No! It’s fine, oppa,” she shook her head. “C-can I… speak to you about this later, maybe? Sorry, this is getting awkward… I just have a few things on my mind right now.”

“Of course,” he nodded. “Sorry if I made you unc-“ 
 
“You didn’t! Don’t worry,” she placed her hand on his upper arm. “Trust me, oppa, you’re the most respectful male teacher this school has. There’s nothing wrong in asking anyone out.” 

“Right,” he nodded. 

He moved away, Miyeon walking by herself. Yuqi came up to her. 
 

“I heard that.” 
 
“Jesus Yuqi! Why are you everywhere?!” she groaned, Yuqi linked her arm with her. 

Miyeon sighed, pulling her a little closer to her side. “How is your physics revision going? 

“…Lowkey-“ 
 
“For god’s sake!” 

“It’s going, that’s for sure. I’m procrastinating it, sorry. Minnie’s content is more interesting!” 

“Way to make me feel better,” Miyeon mumbled. 

“Hey, I have another movie we can watch,” she wriggled her eyebrows. “Unless you and Minnie want to spend time together away from us,” she quickly backed off. 

“No, no, it’s fine,” she licked her lips. “I need to do something, though.”

“What? Tell Mac you’re dating his sister?” 
 
“Yontak-ssaem,” she gave her a look. 

She folded her arms. “He’s a good guy. He gave me cake literally the moment I turned nineteen.” 
 
Miyeon’s head flicked around. “You were in his room at night?!” she narrowed her eyes. 

“Hey, hey! Minnie was there! She was going and I just wanted a walk!” 

She shook her head. “You should be more careful. He’s a good person, but what if he wasn’t.” 
 
“Minnie was there!” she argued, watching her closely. “You stress yourself out.” 
 
“What?” 
 
“You do. Look at yourself!” 

“I’m not stressed!” 
 
“You certainly look like it,” she shrugged. “You just need a good hug.” 

“I think I’m okay,” she scoffed. 

Yuqi took a few strands of her hair, playing with it in her fingers. “Don’t tell me you dyed it blonde when you heard about her.” 

Miyeon took her hair back. “I always wanted it blonde,” she dismissed.  

Yuqi smiled at the ground. “What are you nervous about?” 
 
“Rejecting him.” 
 
“Why? It’s normal to reject someone if you don’t like them.” She remained silent. “Did something happen before? With an ex?” 

She gulped. “One guy didn’t take it well. He wasn’t my ex. We didn’t have anything to begin with.” 

“I’m sure Yontak-ssaem isn’t like that. He’s grown up with Minnie. The last thing he would ever want to do is to hurt a girl the same age as his sister.” 
 
“That doesn’t change anything.” 
 
“He loves her, and he clearly likes you.” 
 
“I don’t get it. What’s in me to like? I guess… it’s my looks. Never who I truly am,” she remarked bitterly. 

“Well, I can’t help you there. You’re just my teacher, so I see your teachery-ness, but if Minnie loves you, it’s definitely not for the way you look.” 
 
“Rude.” 
 
“Sorry, I forgot the ‘just’.” 

Miyeon slid her arm down, Yuqi interlocking her fingers with hers. “You’re intelligent, Yuqi.” Yuqi perked up. “You’re good at reading the room, and people’s emotions. It’s helpful. Sometimes you don’t want to say exactly how you’re feeling, but you manage to help out the… situation.” 

The tour guide dismissed the whole group, Minnie finishing off her conversations. Yuqi turned back to Miyeon, who buried her face in her neck, her arms slowly moving around her. Yuqi chuckled, resting her chin against her forehead, lips against her head. Her hand rubbed her back, before pulling her in more, as she felt her arms tighten around her. 
 

“You’re right. I did need a hug,” Miyeon mumbled, Yuqi kissing her cheek. 

“You worry way too much. Minnie’s okay, and so are you, and it will stay that way,” she reassured her, pulling away. “I’ll go with Soyeon, now. Call us if you need us,” she squeezed her hand, Minnie walking up to her as Yuqi left quickly. 
 

“That was explosive,” she replaced her by her side. “Are you alright?” 
 
“Yeah,” she blushed. “I’m fine, yeah.” 
 

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧ 
 

“What did you want to say?” Mac asked, Miyeon walking into his room in her loungewear. She sat on his bed, Mac taking the chair. “Miyeon, you look scared. Why would I ever hurt you?” 
 
“It’s not… that,” she cracked her knuckles, taking deep breaths. “I don’t know how you’ll react.” 
 
“What? What’s the matter?” 

She sighed. “I’m in a relationship.” 
 
He raised his eyebrow. “Okay? You could have said that.”

“I know, I know,” she brought her knees up to her chest. “It may or may not be with your sister,” she added. 

He froze, watching her tremble in her spot. “Miyeon…” he sighed, Miyeon immediately bursting into tears. He lurched at her, sitting on the bed and pulling her onto his lap, Miyeon burying her face in his shoulder.  

“I’m so sorry,” she sniffled. “I- I feel like I’ve led you on to betray you. Y-you know, had you asked me two months ago I would’ve been able to say yes without a doubt. I’m sorry,” she wiped her face. “I don’t know if Minnie even… oh god what have I done?” 
 
“Don’t worry about it,” he cupped the back of her head. “I didn’t know Minnie was…” 
 
“I- I think she’s just trying things out. I- I don’t know…” 

“Miyeon,” he mumbled, feeling her hands clutch his top. “You don’t need to cry-“ 
 
“I’ve been a bad person! I’ve led you on to treat you like shi-“ 
 
“You moved on. Things happen. Minnie’s my sister, and the one person I’ll put my life after. If you make her happy, god forbid I ever take that away from her-“ 
 
“S-so you don’t h-hate her for dating a w-woman?” 

He released a breath he didn’t know he was holding, relaxing her in his arms. “Miyeon, did someone hurt you?” She looked away. “Miyeon, did someone ever hurt you for it?” 

She looked down. “I don’t speak to my father anymore,” she admitted quietly. “He said it was a sin, and that was it.” 

He shut his eyes, pulling the side of her head against his chest. “Miyeon-ah…”

His door opened quickly, Minnie walking in with a bright smile on her face, that slowly fell as her eyes settled on the scene in the middle of the bed. 

“I- uh… am sorry to… disturb… you…? What’s happening here?” 

 He beckoned her to the bed, Miyeon firmly in his arms still. She sat beside them, placing a kiss on Miyeon’s cheek. “Miyeon told me. About you and her.” 
 
“O-oh…” Minnie whispered, stroking her hair back. “Is everything okay?” 

 Miyeon sniffled. “I lied… I’m sorry, Mac, b-but I don’t see you as a potential partner. If anything, you were like him to me. I lost him ages before…” 
 
“You’ll always have me,” he whispered, holding her tightly. “I understand why you’re so stoic elsewhere.” She sat up, Mac tucking her hair behind her ears. “You’re protecting yourself from other people’s opinions of you.” 
Minnie placed her hands on her waist. 

“It’s a win for the ladies anyway,” she winked. 

Miyeon smiled a little, wiping her damp face. “Even if he resented you, you have all the love in the world from us and any other person who’s been in your presence for over a couple of hours. You’re charming, Miyeon-ah. Don’t let him make you define yourself just for your sexuality. And with Minnie, I’m sure you’ll receive the utmost love one could ever get.” 

Minnie squeezed her shoulders. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realise how hard it was for you. I had thoughts in which I wished I was you because of your personality, and looks. I’m sorry. I recognise your struggle now…” She lifted Miyeon’s face, gently kissing her lips. “Come back, now. You can have all the cuddles and kisses in the world.” 

Miyeon pulled away from Mac, Minnie wiping her tears and taking her back to their room. 

“He asked me out. I didn’t know what to say.” 
 
“You did the right thing, but you didn’t need to cry,” she smiled, speaking softly to avoid startling her. “Come here. Let me hold you.” 
 

They walked into the lift, Minnie kissing her lips as the stared at themselves in the mirror. 
 

“Who hurt you?” 
 
“Appa.” 

Minnie shook her head. “He didn’t deserve you, then.” 

Reaching their room, they both headed straight for their bed, Yuqi and Soyeon having already made a home in it. 

“Miyeonnie?” Soyeon sat up as Miyeon sat beside her. Minnie took to Yuqi’s side, grabbing her laptop. 

“What are you doing?” Yuqi asked, watching her log into the school portal and search through Yuqi’s work. 

“I wasn’t sure if you had done much work yet-“ 
 
“I haven’t,” Yuqi sighed. “Sorry. It’s so much. I have to get into the zone and by that point the time is up.” 
 

Minnie nodded, opening her document and scrolling to the last slide, that indeed hadn’t been touched. 

“Don’t worry,” she began to type, Yuqi leaning over and realising that Minnie was doing her work for her. “I need to send these to the head of department for a progress report at the end of this week. Soyeon-ah, how many slides do you have left?” 
 
“Three.” 
 
“Good. I believe Shuhua has finished hers.” 
 
“Finished?” Yuqi exclaimed. “I swear she spends all of study time harassing Soojin… oh…” 
 
“Soojin’s with her other friends. Shuhua wasn’t with us,” Soyeon reminded. “Shoot, have we been leaving her alone this whole time?” 
 
“Well, she got her work done. Jin-ssaem said she finished her maths coursework too.” 
 
“Maths coursework?” Minnie made a face. “How does that exist?” 

“Hey! She said we’d study together!” Yuqi whined. 

“How has she had time to do all of this?” Minnie scratched her head. “We’ve been here for four days.” 

“What if she crams at night?” Soyeon suggested. Minnie looked up from her laptop. 

 “You know what? I’m going to check,” she climbed over Yuqi, who grabbed her wrist. 

“Can I come?” 
 
“Yuqi, stay here,” Soyeon held her back, Minnie squeezing her shoulder as she ran out of the room, and down the corridor, Shuhua and Soojin’s room only a few doors down. 

“How did they get a room in a pair?” she wondered to herself, reaching it and knocking on the door. She heard some quiet footsteps walk over, unlocking it slowly. 

 “Oh, Kim-ssaem,” she babbled, rubbing her eyes tiredly. 

“Can I come in, Shu?” she asked softly, Shuhua nodding and stepping back to allow her inside. Minnie walked through, eyes locking onto the two beds- one, where Shuhua had supposedly been studying, and the second covered in study materials. Minnie’s eyes softened. 

“I was doing physics and ad-maths,” Shuhua shut the door, walking up beside her. Minnie turned back. 

“Where is Soojin? Isn’t this her bed?” 

Shuhua stared at the floor, refusing to respond. Minnie walked over, checking her files, and books, and her laptop in the corner. She glanced at the clock on the TV. 

“It’s midnight. When were you planning on sleeping?” 
 

Shuhua shrugged, avoiding eye contact. Minnie sat down on her bed, gesturing for Shuhua to sit opposite her. 

“Why?” 
 
She shrugged.  

“Shu… where is Soojin?” 
 
“In unnies’ rooms.” 
 
“She doesn’t sleep here?” 
 
She shook her head. 

“Did you fall out?” 

She stared at the floor. 

“Why don’t you study with the other girls? During the three hours we give you during the day? It’s a long time.” 

She didn’t react. 

“What happened between you and Soojin?” 
 
“Said I’m stupid. That I never study.” 
 
“You do. I saw you on the first day with her and her friends.” 
 
“Her friends don’t like me.” 

Minnie placed a hand on her shoulder. “Soojin likes you.” 
 
She shook her head. “I pretend I don’t realise, but I know she doesn’t.” 

“Why don’t you study with Soyeon and Yuqi, and their group?” 

“I don’t want to annoy more people.” 
 
“So what do you do when everyone’s working?” 

She didn’t respond. 

“You need to rest, Shu. I know you’ve completed all this work but you’re driving yourself insane. My coursework was due from you in February. It isn’t even the end of September yet.” 

She glanced over at the rest of Shuhua’s maths work, that she hadn’t realised had travelled to Shuhua’s own bed. “Where do you sleep?” 
 
“Floor.” 
 
“Why? Put the books on the floor.” 

She crossed one leg over the other. 

“And this because of what Soojin and her friends said to you?” 

“I was doing shit anyways.” Her voice trembled slightly, still barely a whisper. 

Minnie stood up, closing the laptop and three of the textbooks. Shuhua lurched over to stop her, Minnie pulling her into a hug. 

“No wonder you’ve been lacking in energy,” she whispered, holding her. Shuhua stopped struggling, Minnie pulling away to clear up the room, stacking the books up and placing them on the floor in the unused closet. 

Shuhua watched with red eyes, supposedly from having not slept in days. 

“How did you bring all of this here?” Minnie questioned, shutting one of the books, realising that the text was in Japanese. She turned to her in confusion. “You were that desperate?” 

“I’m not good at school. I just wanted something I could understand.” 

“Shu, you don’t even know Japanese! How would that fix anyth-“ 
 
“It was better than looking at the same pages over and over again.” 

 
Minnie shook her head, adding them to the stack until both beds were void of books and papers. 

“Get into bed,” she ordered, Shuhua pulling herself under the duvet. She looked up at Minnie, who sat beside her. “If you don’t understand the content, ask your teachers,” she insisted. “Jin-ssaem is here to help you. He’s a good teacher. Cho-ssaem can help you with physics. You didn’t need to do all of this.”  

“She’s sick of me.” 
 
“Who? Cho-ssaem?” Minnie frowned. “Why do you think that?” 
 
“Soojin and her talk. Soojin’s always telling people how much she doesn’t like me. I told you! I’m not as stupid as people think I am…” 

“Shuhua, there has to be a misunderstanding. Soojin doesn’t hate you at all!” 

“So why does she ignore me?! And call me stupid?!” 
 
Minnie paused. “Shu… maybe you’re just demanding her full attention. She can’t always give you that. But it doesn’t mean she hates you. My first conversation with her was about you. She started it.” 

Shuhua looked up. “What did she say?” 
 
“She told me you’re her best friend,” she smiled, “but that I shouldn’t tell you because you’d get too excited.” Shuhua looked away again. “She never hated you.” 
 
“She’s ignoring me now.” 
 
“Do you want me to talk to her?” 
 
“No!” 
 
“I’m sorry. I have to. Not about you, but, she should be here, in her room. It’s not good safeguarding if I don’t look for her.” 

“Fine,” she sighed. “She’s in the room next door.” 

“Alright, I’ll look for her,” she stood up, patting her head. “You promise you’ll sleep for me?” she tilted her head up. 

Shuhua nodded slowly, sliding under the covers. Minnie smiled in satisfaction, walking towards the door and flicking off the light switch. 

“Night, Shu,” she called, leaving the room and moving the one beside it, which also seemed to be lit up. 

She knocked twice, as Mac had called her a psychopath for the single knock earlier. She heard a groan, and a few words between two girls, and then someone opened the door. 

“Uh… hi?” she mumbled. 

“Can I see Soojin, please?” Minnie asked. She turned back quickly to her friend, who looked away nervously. 

“She’s not here. Sorry.” 

“Really?” Minnie looked at her, bemused. “You’re acting more suspicious than a nun in a penguin shoot,” she frowned. 

“…What…?” 

“Seo Soojin!” 

The girl rolled her eyes. “Come out. Your cover’s blown.” 

Soojin slipped out from behind the blind spot, walking over to the door. She followed Minnie out, the girl closing it behind them. 

“Sorry,” Soojin mumbled. “Shuhua kicked me out. She needed my bed for revising maths, or something? I wasn’t listening.” 

Minnie guided her back to her room. “Shuhua’s in bed. If she does that again, let me know. You should stay in your own room overnight.” 

Soojin nodded, leaving her side, as Minnie walked back to her own. Opening the door, she groaned as her eyes adjusted to the darkness, sliding off her slippers and walking to her bed, where Yuqi and Soyeon were both sprawled out over Miyeon, asleep. 

She sighed, looked over the three figures, Miyeon barely visible under the weight of the two younger women, the room filled with quiet snores. 

She grabbed her phone, laptop, and hotel cards from the table, sliding her slippers back on and leaving her room once more, taking the stairs up to the next floor, and heading for Mac’s room. Luckily, he had handed his hotel card to her earlier, that she swiped and entered inside his room easily, walking over to his bed. 

He looked up from his phone, shuffling to one side and pulling back the duvet, Minnie dropping beside him, opening the laptop. Mac switched his light off, placing his phone to the side, taking her laptop away from her and placing it on the floor. He grabbed her phone and cards, placing them on the table, pushing her down into the bed, the two siblings falling asleep immediately. 

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧ 

Shuhua’s alarm clock went off, the youngest girl whining under her duvet as she reached out to switch it off. She grabbed her phone, the time; 04:00, illuminated in the dark room. 

She sat up, jumping in her spot when she felt a hand grab her wrist. 

“Soojin?!” she gasped, Soojin pulling her down, wrapping her arms around her. 

“You’re seriously crazy if you’re waking up now,” she mumbled groggily, holding down against the bed. 

“Soojin, get off me! I need to shower quickly so I can start working!” she scoffed. “Stupid Kim-ssaem ruined my whole evening plan.” 

“She’s not stupid,” Soojin defended. “She’s looking after you like any normal teacher would. You’re working too hard. This trip is supposed to be relaxing. We only have a few more months until school’s over, you know? Make the most of it.” 

Shuhua struggled under her grip. “Get off me!” she whined, Soojin moving to pin her down with her body weight. 

“No. Sleep. You have three more hours,” she ordered. 

She groaned in defeat. “Why aren’t you in your bed?” she sighed. 

“I was. There were pencil nibs lying around. It was mildly uncomfortable. And stop pretending like you aren’t enjoying this,” she added, moving off her slowly. 

Shuhua turned to look at her. “Why did you come back here?” 
 
“Ssaem made me. She said she finally put you in bed.” 

“I wanted you to be with your friends.” 
 
“You are my friend, Shu.” 
 
“Really? That’s not what you said earlier.” 

Soojin sighed. “That isn’t what I was getting at, Shu. You’re my friend, but you make bad decisions. You don’t prioritise what you should.” 
 
“And I am now, and that’s big problem, huh?” 

Shuhua relaxed, Soojin pulling her into a hug. “I just want you to do well,” she kissed her forehead. “Your parents will get angry if you don’t, and there will be so many other knock on effects. Cramming at night so you can avoid everyone during the day just isn’t worth it. Stay with me.” 
 
“Your friends don’t like me Soojin! What don’t you understand?!” 

Soojin remained silent. “Fine. I’ll stay with you.” 
 
“You don’t need to do that.” 
 
“I do.” 
 
“You don’t. I’m fine alone.” 
 
“I don’t want you to be alone.” 
 
“Why not?!” 
 
“Because I love you. A lot. You know I love you. It’s not nice to see you like this.” 
 
“You wanted me like this.” 
 
“I just wanted to protect you,” she sighed. 

Shuhua shook her head, pulling away from her. “You don’t have to lie to me. I’m not an eight year old. I’m not stupid. I can read the room, and be normal friends and do normal things like normal people would. You keep acting like I’m an alien.” 
 
“No, I don’t. Shu, you’re a kid to me. A really cute kid. Don’t you think I worry over you?” 
 
“I’m saying that you shouldn’t. I’m fine without you.” 

Soojin shook her head, turning on her side. “Alright,” she gave in. “I’m sorry.” 

Shuhua ignored her, turning her back towards her. 

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧ 

Miyeon was coaxed awake, a soft row of kisses down her face bringing her to consciousness. She hummed, a small smile tugging at her lips. 

“Minnie,” she sighed with a warm, gentle laugh, quiet, due to the absence of her morning voice. Her hands raised to curl around her waist, pulling her closer to her chest. “Morning, baby.” 

Soyeon slowly woke up beside her, her hand palming Yuqi’s stomach gently, nails brushing along the surface of her skin. 

Miyeon’s hands pulled closer, the kisses against her collarbone growing fervent, the younger woman reaching up and undoing the first few buttons of her top, enough to expose everything but where she needed her. The warmth on her belly was satisfying enough for her to finally open her eyes. 

“What the fuck?” 

She sat up instantly, Yuqi falling off her, Soyeon’s hand seizing from her waist. She lurched up to flick the light switch on, looking around to meet Soyeon and Yuqi’s confused faces, Minnie nowhere to be seen. 

Yuqi wiped her mouth with a mewl, taking the arm of her pyjama top and wiping down Miyeon’s face and neck, Miyeon’s arm covering her bare chest as she redid her buttons for her. 

“Sorry. I really thought you were Soyeon.” 

Miyeon groaned. “I said Minnie’s name!” 
 
“You did?” 

Soyeon winced. “It is dark in here,” she sighed. “Thank god you opened your eyes. That would’ve been messy.” 

Miyeon shook her head, lying back down and pulling them closer to herself. “Do either of you know where Minnie is?” 

“She went to Shuhua’s… and then… she didn’t come back?” Yuqi reminded, catching her breath, reaching over to hold Soyeon’s hand. 

“She can’t be with her still,” she mumbled. “Yuqi-yah, can you give me my phone?” 

Yuqi reached over to grab it, handing it to her. Miyeon tapped at it quickly, raising it to her ear. The call was answered quickly. 

“She’s with me,” Mac mumbled over the phone. 

“Is she okay?” 
 
“She’s fine. Don’t worry.” 

“Alright.” 

She hung up, dropping it aside. 

“It’s seven. We should get up,” Soyeon advised, Miyeon holding her close to herself.  

“We have a late start today, I believe. We leave at eleven.” 

“Perfect,” Yuqi stretched herself out with a whine. 

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧ 

“How is Shuhua?” Miyeon asked, joining Minnie in the lobby, alone. “You stayed with Mac last night.” 
 
“You needed space.” 
 
“You should’ve asked them to leave.” 
 
“No,” she shook her head. “Shuhua’s fine, I think. Soojin… I need to talk to her more. I don’t understand her.” 
 
“What do you mean?” she sat beside her. Minnie shook her head. Miyeon smiled, kissing her cheek. “Yuqi almost made out with me this morning. I thought she was you, and she thought I was Soyeon.” 
 
Minnie raised her eyebrows. “Really, hm? Sounds… disgusting, actually.” 
 
“It wasn’t that bad,” she dismissed, catching sight of a couple of students in the corner, talking quietly and giggling with each other. “Are you sure Shuhua’s okay? What happened in the end?” 
 
“She’s just stressing herself out,” Minnie shrugged. “How are you feeling? After your talk with Mac?” 

She shrugged. “He’s a good person. You have a good family.” 

Minnie nodded slowly. “How is Shuhua in your lessons?” 
 
“Quiet. Soojin avoids her. Maybe that’s why.” 

Minnie shook her head. “I think we view her too linearly. Just… she’s happy with Soojin and sad without. Are you sure she hasn’t been struggling?” 
 
“Her tests were average. Fifty, sixty percent. I expect that of a topic she barely knows of. Why? What about your lessons?” 

Minnie stared blankly. “Am I too emotionally invested in them?” she wondered out loud. 

“Why do you say that?” Miyeon frowned. 

“Our lessons aren’t…” She cut herself off. “She’s fine. Yuqi and Soyeon are there. She talks. She’s happy.” 

“What’s your point, then?” 
 
She licked her lips. “She was planning on pulling another all-nighter, doing physics work. She bought textbooks from the bookstore yesterday to help herself.” 

“Bookstore? She can’t read Japanese, can she?” 
 
“She can’t, but she’s saying she doesn’t understand anything she’s being taught.” 

Miyeon blinked. “That’s not true, though… You think someone is making her feel that way?” 
 
“The only person I can think of is Soojin, but I doubt she’d do anything to hurt her deliberately.” 
 
“Soojin wouldn’t hurt her like that. You think it could be the language barrier?” 

Minnie shook her head, lost in thought. “I think you should speak to her. Honestly, jagi, the sight was heartbreaking. The poor thing was up at midnight, and she had clearly started much earlier than that.” 
 
“Where was Soojin?” 
 
“I can’t tell if she left herself or was evicted by Shuhua. Her bed was covered with books too.” 

“You can’t study like that,” Miyeon agreed. “Alright. I’ll say something to her.” 

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧ 

Soyeon yawned, opening up her laptop and scrolling onto her engineering powerpoint. 

“Engineering is the only subject I actually enjoy,” she mumbled. “Biology can kiss my ass, and chemistry and fuck right off.” 
 
“Yontakatakataka is right behind you,” Yuqi kicked her. 

“’takatakataka’? Okay, helicopter. I’m sure he didn’t hear me. Also, he would so agree with me.” 
 
“No he wouldn’t, dumbass.” 

Soyeon reached the final slide, eyes widening in disbelief. “Bitch…” 
 
“What?” 

“No, not you.”

“?? Dude??" 

“You’re right! Maybe it is the gods…” 

She turned her laptop around. “What am I looking at?” 

“The PowerPoint is complete! All forty slides!” 

Yuqi lurched forwards. “Damn. She did that for you?” 

“Well… she shouldn’t.” 
 
“Don’t say anything. We can get disqualified!” 
 
“Yeah no shit Sherlock. I wasn’t planning on outing myself for a worse grade.” 

Yuqi gasped at her own screen. “Thirty eight out of forty?! I was at thirty yesterday!” 

Soyeon gulped. “Jeez… why is she doing this?” 

They were about to turn to search for her, when a shout across the classroom stopped them in their tracks. 

Shuhua stood up, her chair screeching against the floor. She had her hands out, slamming Miyeon into the wall with a loud thud. 

“I HATE YOU!” she cried, about to throw a slap that Minnie caught immediately. Her eyes flashed in anger, before running straight out of the room, tears streaming down her face. 

Yuqi and Soyeon turned to face each other. 

“Okay, mood.” 

“Dude, she almost assaulted her!” someone snapped back. 

“Yeah, mood,” Soyeon repeated. 

Minnie panicked, looking between her girlfriend and the door, and then around the classroom for Soojin, who wasn’t there. She made eye contact with Miyeon, her sad eyes dropping to the floor, deep breaths slowing her heart rate down after whatever had just happened. 

She heard a small laugh in front of her, that disturbed the complete silence of the room. 

“Well, Kim. A student, or your girlfriend?” the student snarled. 

Minnie dashed straight out of the room, Mac walking up beside Miyeon.  

“Who said that?” Mac asked, face red in anger. “WHO ASKED THAT?!” 

The students cowered back, Miyeon slipping out of the room behind him. Yuqi followed, Soyeon too. 

“Don’t. Shuhua doesn’t want to see you,” Yuqi called back. Miyeon stopped, turning back to them, hands trembling in front of her, grabbing onto each other to maintain her composure. 

Yuqi stepped forwards, taking her to the bathroom. Soyeon followed, keeping a watch of the empty corridor for anyone surrounding them. 

“Come,” Yuqi whispered, lowering her on the closed toilet seat, kneeling in front of her. 

“No, b-baby stand up,” she sniffled, Soyeon sitting beside her. 

“Take deep breaths. Mr Yontak is in there. Don’t worry,” Yuqi placed a hand on her leg. “I need you to breathe, Miyeon. You’re tiring yourself out.” 

“Th-this isn’t what I wanted,” she sniffled. “F-for them to f-find out… W-what i-if th-they h-hurt u-“

“No one will do that. Soyeon’s more than happy to bite ankles for you,” she stroked her head back. “What did you say to Shuhua, though? I’ve never seen her so aggressive.” 
 
“Did she hurt you?” Soyeon asked. 

“Th-tha’s the least of my concerns right now,” she dismissed. 

Yuqi and Soyeon turned to each other. “Ignore Semi. She’s a bitch to everyone. You’ve never taught her before?” Yuqi asked, settling down on her legs. 

“Have Minnie and I been that obvious?!” she whispered between breaths. 

“No, you haven’t,” Soyeon reassured her. “I think she’s just pulling your leg. It’s good you didn’t say anything to her in there, because that would have probably given it away further.” 
 
“Right,” she sighed. “Mac did, though.” 

“He’s calling out her bitchiness,” Yuqi grinned. 

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧ 

“Yehshu?!” Minnie called, walking into every empty classroom of the centre, looking for the girl in question. She hadn’t gone to the bathroom, or in any of the rooms in the building, clearly. 

She sighed, feeling a sharp pain in the back of her head, slipping out of the corridor and into the garden. 

“Yehshu?”  

She walked through the flowers and around the fountain, searching each bench for a figure. Placing a hand on her waist as she reached the end, she shook her head in confusion. 

“Where did she go?” she mumbled, collapsing in the nearest bench, her head throbbing incessantly. “Fucking sun,” she groaned, standing back up and walking around into the backdoor of the building, hearing a quiet sniffle nearby. 

She perked up, tiptoeing around the corner, where Shuhua was sitting, face buried in her knees. 

She sighed in relief, sitting beside her. Shuhua barely looked up to acknowledge her presence. She brought her knees to her chest, sitting in the same position as Shuhua, her hand reaching out to hold hers for support. 

“There is nothing I hate more than an annoying, nosy teacher,” she spoke hesitantly. “I get you, completely. Are you feeling better out here?” She nodded. “Good. That room was suffocating. Worse than hagwon, I presume.” She nodded once again. “Do you mind telling me what happened? I was on the other side of the classroom.” 

“She told me that I need to be more responsible for my learning and education,” her voice croaked. “She said that my studying plan was stupid and thoughtless and wouldn’t get me further than I am now.” 

Minnie frowned. “Did she really?” 
 
“No. That’s what she implied.” 

“But I didn’t ask for that. I asked you what she said.” 

She looked up, rolling her eyes. “She said the first bit. That’s it.” 

“And you tried to hit her?” 

“I was boiling in rage, and my head was spinning,” she rested her head back down. 

Minnie nodded. “I agree. That room didn’t help the situation. Nor the lighting. But did she deserve it?” 

“Yeah. She did.” 
 
“Why do you think that?” 

Shuhua shrugged. Minnie nodded slowly. 

“You need sleep,” she advised. “When did you wake up this morning?” 

She didn’t reply. 

“Shu,” her tone became firm, Shuhua stiffening up. “I can speak to Soojin if I have to.” 

Shuhua shook her head. “Four thirty,” she mumbled reluctantly. 

Minnie sat back. “Less than four hours of sleep. No wonder you’re barely functioning.” 
 
“Says you! You’re always up too!” 

“Shu, do you know the effects of having no sleep?” she ignored. “You start functioning at your lowest. Your minimum capacity becomes your maximum. You can’t think straight.” 
 
“I’m fine!” 
 
“Shu, you almost hit a teacher,” she reminded.  

She shook her head. “You can’t talk. Yuqi and Soyeon are always talking about your help with their coursework. When do you do it? It’s definitely not during the day.” 
 
Minnie’s heart sunk. “Hm. I’m an adult. I’ve done my studies. I’ve got my degrees.” 

Shuhua stared at her knees. 

“Kid, we should head back.” 
 
“And face that class again? Please. Just leave me here.” 

“You’ll be with me,” she dismissed. “Come.” 

She stood up, lifting Shuhua up with her. “What time is it?” 
 
Minnie glanced at her phone. “Everyone should be packing up by now.” She texted Mac, sliding it in her pocket. “Yontak-ssaem is packing up your things. Soyeon or Yuqi will take them. Let’s go to the entrance.” 

“Where are we going now?”

“Shopping street. You’ll like it there.” She turned to look at her. “You can be with Soyeon and Yuqi. They’re not doing couple-y stuff all the time, you know?” 

She nodded, Minnie pushing her into the main building, leading her down the corridor and out into the car park. 

“Would you like to sit with me?” she offered, climbing into the empty coach. 

Shuhua nodded quickly, Minnie gesturing her into the window seat. “Thank you.” 
 
Minnie patted her head. “I’ll wait outside,” stepping down the steps as the group arrived, Mac with Shuhua’s backpack. Minnie took it from him. 

“How is she?” 

“I’ve calmed her down,” she mumbled, counting the students as they climbed on one by one. 

“Ssaem, where did you get your hair done?” one asked with a smile. “It’s so nice!” 

Minnie blushed. “Go in, kid,” she giggled, nudging her inside. Yuqi followed. 

“Bro, we have problems.” 
 
“One, I’m not your bro, and two, what problems?” she groaned. 

“One, you are my bro, and two, I don’t know, ask Miyeon,” she grinned, grabbing her hand to fist bump her, climbing in, Soyeon following her. 

Miyeon was last. 

“Jagi-“ 
 
“Don’t talk to me,” she whispered, pushing past her and sitting beside Mac. 

Minnie raised her eyebrows, stepping inside and settling beside Shuhua. 

“There’s a matcha café near. If I give you the address you can take your friends.” 

She shook her head. “I’ll just follow them.” 
 
“Shu, this is your trip too. Don’t ruin it for yourself.” 
 
“I don’t want to ruin it for them!” 

Minnie’s phone buzzed in her pocket. 

macdonalds  

how is she? 

better 

miyeon? 

don't go there 

now what 

you picked shuhua over her 

that’s a student! 

she hasn’t slept in days mac 

she needed someone before she 
committed murder 

she needs to know that there are 
consequences of her actions 

now what? 

she apologises and we move on 

nicha that’s not how it works 

if anybody reports this you’re losing your 
job 

why?! 

lack of professionalism 

you’re letting her get away with it 

what did Miyeon say 

she’s hurt too 

Minnie groaned, sitting back in her seat, the throbbing in her forehead getting louder. 

what do i do? 

honestly im not sure 

you already have a situation with the  
students 

semi isn’t the only one who’s realised 

i swear my life only gets harder 

also, Yuqi and Soyeon may have been a  
bit too vocal about you helping them 

what? 

nicha 

you can’t do their coursework FOR them 

it’s illegal 

it’s impersonation 

are you kidding me??? 

be careful 

please 

when we get off the bus, try and get in 
a word with either Soyeon, Yuqi or Miyeon,  

you’re in a sticky situation and honestly 
even i don’t know how im supposed to  
help you 

im concerned about Shuhua 

Shuhua can wait 

shuhua needs space to calm down 

if you get stressed, you’ll stress her out, 

and she’ll go crazy 

just let her be and focus on the next mess 

will you defend me? 

i can’t jeopardise both of our jobs 

of course i'll try I’m not just going to 
watch you suffer 

be careful 

okay… 

the bold text is kind of creepy but yeah 

i understand… 

good 

Chapter Text

“Miyeon…” Minnie ran after her, Miyeon walking in the opposite direction of the tour guide, that had just dismissed the students to go their separate ways. Miyeon ignored her. “Miyeon, wait!”

“Minnie, go,” she groaned, turning around to Minnie behind her.

Minnie shook her head, walking up to her. “I’m sorry… I- I was confused. I didn’t know what to do. Semi made me choose Shuhua because I thought you didn’t want more speculation! I didn’t mean to choose Shuhua over you…” Miyeon didn’t respond, so she continued. “Shuhua hasn’t slept in days. She’s hurting herself and she was overwhelmed and uncomfortable and stressed so she lashed out on you-“

“And that makes it okay?” she spoke sternly.

Minnie sank back. “I guess not,” she sighed. “It’s not okay, but-“

“There’s no buts, Minnie! And then I found out that you’re doing their coursework for them?! You know how that affects every other department?!”

“I-It gives them more time to study…?”

“No! God you’re so naïve,” she looked to the sky. “It makes us look like shit teachers who can’t do our jobs better than the new teacher who just graduated!”

Minnie looked to the ground. “Miyeon, you know I love you, but you told me safeguarding comes first.”

“Safeguarding, Minnie. The girl tried to hit me-“

“And I blocked it,” she cut in.

“The girls have each other to go to.”

“Right now Shuhua has no one.”

“And me?”

“I left knowing Mac was there to defend you.”

“Of course. My girlfriend’s brother. Wonderful.”

“Miyeon, you wanted us to be professional.”

“What about a student assaulting a teacher is professional, Minnie?”

“You’re referring to her as if you don’t know her. And she told me what you said to her. No wonder she lashed out.”

“I was frustrated with her for not caring about herself and expecting others to.”

“You’re the teacher! That’s your job!”

“With eighty other students to teach, it can’t be,” she snapped. “She just causes trouble.”

“Don’t say that, Miyeon. She’s still growing up, and making mistakes.

“Cho-ssaem,” a small voice from behind them spoke. They turned around, Shuhua standing there awkwardly. “I- I’m so, so sorry. I didn’t know what I was doing.” She outstretched her hands, holding a small bag. “I know it doesn’t excuse my behaviour. D-did I hurt you? I’m sorry…”

Miyeon sighed, moving towards her and taking the bag. She opened her arm, Shuhua immediately latching onto her. “Don’t worry. I shouldn’t have said it how I did,” it closed around her, Miyeon patting her head. “Kim-ssaem told me how hard you’ve been working. I was frustrated for letting it get to this stage without realising. Shu, you have to trust me for me to help you, you know? Not everyone understands everything the first time, and that’s why I encourage everyone to ask for help. I have so many students that it’s hard to keep track of every single one of you.” She pulled away. “You’re lucky you have Kim-ssaem. She’s the one who noticed it.” Shuhua nodded quickly. “If you can’t trust me, speak to her. We’re always beside you, but we can’t help you unless you speak up.”

“Y-yeah… Kim-ssaem spoke to me yesterday,” she gulped.

Miyeon nodded. “How are you feeling? Did you talk?”

“Kim-ssaem really helped me with my emotions,” she played with her hands. “She calmed me down.”

She looked to the ground, Miyeon’s eyes following her. “Are you scared of me? Is that why you avoid me?”

“N-no…” Her response was highly unconvincing. “You’re just a bit strict… I guess…”

Shuhua squeezed her eyes shut, waiting for something to happen, but the calm hand on her shoulder suggested otherwise.

“I didn’t realise,” she whispered. “I’m sorry I made you feel that way.” She took a step back, composing herself. “Where are your friends?”

“They’re waiting for me in the shop,” she pointed to the Uniqlo beside them.

Miyeon nodded. “Okay, go,” she patted her. “Enjoy yourself. No studying.”

Shuhua nodded quickly, running down inside, where her friend was standing, holding a basket.

“You handled that well,” Minnie grinned.

Miyeon scoffed, walking away.

“Oh, come on! You make up with her and not me?!”

“You’re my girlfriend.”

“Double standards much!” she whined, running up after her.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“So, what are the chances of Minnie absolutely killing us when she finds out about the coursework thing?”

“Low. She doesn’t tell people off!”

“No, you’re just lucky,” Yuqi shrugged. “Also, Miyeon looked mad.”

“Average couple fall out,” Soyeon shrugged, Yuqi glaring at her. “They’ll get back together in a couple of hours, and then kick us out of their room to have sex again.”

“Hey, we should have sex.”

“Yuqi, if we weren’t dating already, I’d block and report you.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Nicha, come here,” Mac called, spotting her in the street, alone, Miyeon nowhere to be seen.

“What?” she tilted her head, Mac taking her hand and pulling her into a quieter spot.

“Someone needs to write up what happened.”

Minnie groaned. “Mac, seriously? You can’t! Semi will cause more trouble, Shuhua gets written up and I get put on a watchlist!”

“It’s protocol. Min, you’re way too emotional. You need to hold yourself back.”

She looked away. “I haven’t even made up with her.”

“People saw you run away Shuhua. You shouldn’t have done that. You should have stayed by Miyeon-“

“After what Semi said?!”

“I’m dealing with Semi. You need to focus on this.”

Minnie looked around her, Miyeon walking towards them. She came up to Minnie, who gently bumped her forehead against hers.

“Miyeon, let it go.”

“I’m now passively angry,” she clarified.

Minnie put an arm around her front. “Can we deal with this later?” she frowned, Mac nodding and leaving their side.

Miyeon excitedly handed her a small bag. “Look what I found!”

Minnie opened it, a small furry animal toy lying inside. “What?” she made a face.

“For Shuhua. It can be like… a friend, to help her study, you know?”

“I… see… It’s cute. She’ll like it,” she nodded, handing it back to her. “Trying to make amends?”

“She’s a kid. I can’t leave her hanging,” she shrugged.

“She’s a good kid. Not Semi, who’s apparently out to get us.”

“I’m proud to say I never liked that girl.”


They continued walking, the bag swinging in Minnie’s hand.

“Genuinely, did the shove hurt? It was against the wall.”

“It’s nothing,” she dismissed. “Just startling.”

“Fine,” Minnie nodded. “Again, I’m sorry. We read the situations differently, I guess.”

Miyeon nodded silently. Their fingers interlocked, Minnie massaging her hand in hers.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

Miyeon and Minnie snuck out of their room, slipping to Shuhua’s. It was barely ten o’clock, but if Mac was doing his job correctly, then everyone would be in their rooms, perhaps trying to fall asleep.

Minnie smiled, knocking on her door.

It swung open immediately, startling Miyeon.

“Sorry. I was just in the bathroom,” Soojin shrugged. “You want Shuhua?” She opened it further. Miyeon walked in.

“Shu,” she called, Shuhua looking up from her maths textbook. Minnie sighed, following her.

“What?” Shuhua’s eyes locked on the bag.

“Look what we got you,” she handed it to her. Shuhua tilted her head, looking inside it and pulling it out.

“Fluffy alpaca,” she palmed it. “Cute,” she looked up at Minnie, who leaned down to kiss her forehead.

“It’s a revision friend. When you’re revising by yourself, it can sit and watch you, so you don’t feel alone,” Miyeon explained.

Shuhua hugged it to her chest. “Thank you,” she glanced at Miyeon, and then hugged Minnie.

“You can share him with Soojin,” she joked, Soojin standing behind them all.

“And the perfume is wonderful, Shuhua,” Miyeon added. “You really didn’t need to.”

“No, I had to,” she looked away, Minnie pulling away from her.

“Alright, you two, go to bed. Shuhua, if Soojin tells me you’re waking up at four in the morning again, we’ll have some problems, won’t we?” Minnie warned, patting both of their heads. “Tomorrow is busy, so wear comfortable clothes.”

Minnie kissed her cheek, Shuhua giggling. “Thank you,” she squeezed him up. “Mian Mian,” she named.

“Mian Mian because he’s fluffy?” Minnie asked in Chinese, Shuhua’s face instantly lighting up. She nodded excitedly. “Aw, baby,” she chuckled. “Put Mian Mian to bed, and then yourself,” she ordered, leaving their room.

The walk back to their room was silent, Minnie comfortable in the lack of conversation. Meanwhile, Miyeon’s heart was palpitating.

“She really loves you, doesn’t she?” she mumbled, Minnie unlocking their door.

“Hm?” Minnie frowned.

Miyeon immediately lay in the bed. “Shuhua really likes you. She’s always so excited to see you…”

Minnie sat beside her. “She’s just nervous around because you’re a little stricter,” she shrugged. “And you had a bit of a brawl, so she’s in her repenting era.”

Miyeon nodded. “I know. It’s just… nice to have that connection.”

Minnie turned to look at her. “Hey, Soyeon treats you like a mother, sister, and friend all in one. You’re good.”

“I know, I know. I just feel like I drove this wedge in between me and Shuhua. I was supposed to help her, not guilt trip her.”

“She’s fine. She’s a little sensitive, but she’ll get over it.” Minnie leaned closer to her, Miyeon completing the distance by pecking her lips.

Miyeon retracted quickly. “I know.”

Minnie nudged her. “You’re acting awkward. Just tell me what’s on your mind!”

“She just… looked at you like you were everything.” She blinked.

Minnie made a face. “I really don’t know where you’re going with this. You’re jealous?”

“No! No, just… ugh! It’s petty.”

“It’s really not.”

“Fine. I just wish they liked me like they like you. They see me as a teacher. They see you as a friend. I don’t know which one is better but right now I wish I was you.”

Minnie lay beside her, Miyeon doing the same. Minnie pulled her closer. “God I love you,” she whispered. “Jagiya, you know it’s not like that. You’re dealing with masses of students. I just have them. That small class builds a familial connection. It’s not me.”

Miyeon nodded slowly. “Okay…” she whined.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

Yuqi and Soyeon lay in their beds, staring at the ceiling quietly.

“Soyeon,” Yuqi whispered. Soyeon turned to her. “Soyeon…”

“What?”

Yuqi whined softly. Soyeon climbed out of her bed, slipping into Yuqi’s. Yuqi looked her dead in the eye. “I need you,” she begged, her voice quiet, yet straining in desperation.

Soyeon leant in to meet her lips, Yuqi taking her hand and placing it against her body. It slowly dawned on Soyeon, her Yuqi dragged her hand to her upper chest.

“We’re old enough now,” Yuqi gulped, controlling her heavy breathing as her eyes fixated on Soyeon’s lips.

“Yuqi-yah…” Soyeon placed her other hand on her waist.

“Please,” her hooded eyes shifted upwards. “Please touch me… M-make me f-feel good…”

Soyeon switched the light off, leaning down to undo the buttons of Yuqi’s pyjama top. Yuqi’s hand stopped her, shaking her head nervously. Soyeon nodded, Yuqi switching the light back on, pulling Soyeon’s lips towards hers. She took her hand, placing it over her crotch, over her pyjama trousers, which were damp.

“Jeez, Yuqi,” Soyeon’s breath hitched. “You’re that desperate for me?” Yuqi nodded quickly.

Soyeon turned on her side, Yuqi lying on her back beside her. Her hand slid into her trousers, and then her underwear, grazing over her pubic hair. Yuqi adjusted to rest her head against Soyeon’s chest, Soyeon’s free hand cradling her close to her body.

“I-I’ve never done this before,” Soyeon gulped, pushing her hand further until it came in contact with the slippery hood of her slit.

“Y-you touch yourself, r-right?” Soyeon nodded hesitantly. “D-do what you do t-to yourself… A-and trust yourself.”

Soyeon licked her lips, dipping her finger through her slit, Yuqi moaning at the contact. “L-like this?” Soyeon asked hesitantly, Yuqi gazing up at her, nodding.

“Jagi… you don’t need to make me cum,” her fingertips danced on Soyeon’s forearm. “I just wanted you to touch me…”

Soyeon smiled a little, placing her thumb on her clit, rolling the tip of it. “No… I’ll give you what you deserve,” she pecked her forehead, Yuqi spreading her legs so Soyeon’s fingers could enter her. She moaned loudly, biting her bottom lip.

“Y-you were right…” she suddenly spoke.

“Right about what?” Soyeon continued to run her fingers over her area.

“About undressing me. I’m all yours, Sso… You can do whatever you want to me…”

Soyeon chuckled. “I’ve never seen you so submissive before,” she kissed her cheek.

Yuqi whined. “You- You’ll get it when you have the most gorgeous girl on the planet touching your… p-pussy…” she winced at the word choice, Soyeon leaning down to attach her lips to hers.

“I- Imagine Minnie that night,” Soyeon moaned, finger reaching deeper inside of her. “M-Minnie, lying on the bed just like you are now…”

“Mmm,” Yuqi disagreed. “She was nak-k-ked.”

“Miyeon was still taking care of her, just l-like I’m taking care of you,” Soyeon insisted. “But w-we’re virgi-“

“S-so was she… that was her- fuck- first… t-time,” her chest rose and sunk with each syllable. “S-Soyeon-ah… I’m g-going to cum…”

“G-good girl…”

“Y-you promise me you won’t stop? I can’t think straight… it feels so good… my whole body is filled up with it.”

“Take a deep breath,” Soyeon brushed her nose against her cheek. Her thighs rubbed against each other, pyjamas also slick.

“I- It’s going to be l-loud, Soyeon, w-what-“

“Shh,” Soyeon hushed her, Yuqi raising her legs so her knees were bent to the ceiling, Soyeon’s hand increasing in pace as her hips began to tremble against it. Her breath grew short, pants filling the room loudly, as well as the sound of the creaking bed, and the wet noises from under the duvet. Each thrust gave Yuqi a jolt into her cervix, her young, excited body thrown straight into a convulsing orgasm, a loud, deep moan escaping her lips.

“Soyeon!” she moaned, arching her back, feeling her arousal run out of her. Soyeon’s hand was planted over her mouth to suppress her cries, as she rode her orgasm expertly with a smooth roll of her hips, before Soyeon lay her back down.

“Good girl… now, let’s get you out of all this…”

Minnie and Miyeon stood outside the room, Miyeon’s knuckled raised, about to knock.

“Don’t, maybe…” Minnie winced. “If they’re over… we shouldn’t stop the aftercare-“

“It’s okay if we hear them, but if any of the other students do, they’ll be in trouble,” Miyeon mumbled, concerned. “They can get bullied, or shamed for it…. I don’t want them to put themselves in that situation.”

“Let them be. Soyeon knows what she’s doing.”

“It’s definitely their first time. You can hear how clueless they are.”

Minnie fisted the hotel card in her hand. “Yuqi gave it to me.”

Miyeon looked down at it. “What? Why?”

“They have ours.”

“WHAT? WHY?”

“Shh!” Minnie squeaked, raising the card to the sensor.

The door slowly opened, Soyeon and Yuqi freezing in their spots. They stared at each other, eyes wide.

“Girls, it’s Minnie,” they heard a gentle voice from behind the blind spot. “Can I come in? Miyeon is here.”

“Y-yeah,” Yuqi whined, still catching her breath. Soyeon’s arms wrapped around her, her hand sliding out of underwear, wiping her fingers with her trousers.

Minnie tiptoed around the bend, eyes landing on the two figures in the single bed. Miyeon remained at the foot, awkwardly.

“Are you okay?” Minnie asked carefully, both students nodding.

“You heard us?” Soyeon asked hesitantly, heart racing.

“It’s why we came in,” Minnie sighed. “You share walls with your fellow students. Be careful,” she stroked Yuqi’s flushed cheek.

Yuqi nodded quickly, Minnie pecking both of their foreheads, before walking back to Miyeon. “Thanks,” Soyeon called out. Minnie turned back. “For looking out for us.”

Minnie smiled. “It’s my job,” she nodded, taking Miyeon’s hand. “Sleep, girls.”

Yuqi flopped back onto Soyeon, waiting for the door to click shut before snuggling into her body. Soyeon squeezed her up.

“I love you,” Yuqi moaned, Soyeon wedging her leg between hers.

“I love you too,” Soyeon whispered.

Minnie and Miyeon yawned, dropping back into their beds.

“This is the weirdest dynamic I’ve ever had with students,” Miyeon mumbled, Minnie stretching herself out before cuddling into Miyeon. She reached up to kiss her lips, Miyeon pulling her back to deepen the kiss.

“Fuck, Miyeon,” Minnie moaned, Miyeon pulling her top over her head. “I’m too tired.”

“We don’t have to do this. I just want to feel you,” she whispered, Miyeon pulling off all her clothes instantly, removing Minnie’s shorts and underwear. Minnie reached up to increase the temperature of the room, Miyeon grunting as Minnie lay back down against her. She came up behind her, spooning her, as they always did.

“You’re always the big spoon.”

“I just want to hold you,” Miyeon rubbed her side. “I don’t want this trip to end.”

“We’re not even halfway through. Calm down!”

Miyeon sighed, kissing her shoulder. “Can I tell you something?” Minnie mumbled in response. “The only reason I got angry was because I really love you. And I know it came off wrong, but you’re the best thing that has ever happened to me. Is it bad if I want you to myself?”

Minnie turned around, Miyeon’s large, puppy eyes melting her heart. She didn’t look anything like the woman from before, the teacher who was in charge of 40 young adults with nothing but everything stressful on her mind.

“You’re adorable,” Minnie whispered, smiling back at her. “So I guess we really are serious, then?”

Miyeon tilted her head. “You though we weren’t before?”

Minnie chuckled, kissing her lips and sighing. She moved close to her, their bodies brushing against each other. “I can feel your katsu,” she joked, reaching down to pat her belly. Miyeon pulled her closer, pressing herself against her.

“I don’t want anyone else…”

“I know that, Miyeon-ah. I saw it from the look in your eyes when you were with Mac earlier. It’s love,” she stroked her head. “And I didn’t think I’d ever get into a relationship so quickly, but I’m happy with you. You’ve made this whole… moving to Korea… situation so much easier. And I was scared that I wouldn’t have anyone. I didn’t want to rely on Mac-oppa for everything, but… I guess I didn’t need to.”

Miyeon kissed her again. “I’m happy you feel safe with me.” She turned onto her back, Minnie’s hand still on her body.

Minnie smiled, kissing her shoulder. “I always knew you were beautiful, but there’s something about you nude that just blows my mind…”

Miyeon laughed, nudging her gently. “I’m glad I could impress you,” she winked. “Maybe tomorrow you can get a feel of me,” she winked.

“Tomorrow, hm? So… far… away…” Minnie moaned, Miyeon nibbling at her neck. “How about now?”

Her hand wondered down, brushing over her damp folds. “I wouldn’t be so opposed to that,” she whispered, tilting her head to meet her lips.

“Someone’s prepared,” Minnie gently dipped them through, her thumb running over her hairless skin. “I’m afraid I’m not adventurous enough to use my mouth…”

“Maybe later,” Miyeon sighed in relief. “I can’t lie, Yuqi’s noises did something to me,” she bucked her hips. “I shouldn’t… she’s a student, after all, but she sounded hot.”

“I think any sexual noise is bad enough,” Minnie relieved. “I didn’t know Soyeon had enough experience to pull through with it, though. Proud, but concerned. Hey, when did you get your first boyfriend?”

“Before university,” she shook her head. “He was around two years older than me. I was eighteen when we met, and he was twenty one.”

“Damn, underage?” Minnie palmed her thigh, spreading it out gently.

“Well, we didn’t know it was illegal at the time. I guess we could have paid more attention in health class.”

“He was probably just using you, you know?”

“I didn’t care. It felt good,” she mumbled. Minnie watched her closely, with no response. “A-as in, he bought me things, a-and-“

“It’s okay, I get it,” she smirked. “I wish it was just us on the trip. No students…”

“Mac?”

“… okay yeah.”

“Soyeon? Yuqi?”

“… never mind.”

Miyeon squeezed her thighs together, bouncing on her fingers. She lifted Minnie so she was sitting on her leg, her thigh slotting in between her legs and nudging at her clit. Minnie barely humped against her, Miyeon bending her legs in the air as she prepared for an orgasm.

Minnie lurched over, grabbing a tissue and wedging it against Miyeon’s crotch as she came, Miyeon sobbing into her hand quietly as her whole body convulsed under the duvet. Minnie’s hand pressed it against her crotch, feeling it soak up her release.

“I’m done,” Miyeon whispered hoarsely, Minnie disposing of the tissue. She lay back down, still riding her thigh.

“You cry during sex?” she pointed out. “Why? Did it feel bad?”

“N-no…” she pulled the duvet over her shoulders. “I don’t know why. I just do.”

Minnie suddenly pulled her into a hug, pulling her over her body and tightening her forearm around the back of her neck, over her hair. The force cause Miyeon to loosen up against her, whining softly out of submission.

By this point, they only had a few hours to actually sleep, knowing that their slumber would be cut short as soon as possible by-

“Shh!”

Miyeon woke up slowly to the sound of a soft giggle and a hush, eyes slowly opening to find Soyeon and Yuqi slipping into their room. She sighed. She couldn’t even be startled by this point until-

“Shit. Are they not wearing anything?”

“Lift the duvet and see!”

“Ew! Soyeon, you’re so stupid! Shit… is she awake?”

“Miyeon? Maybe. She would have said something by now. Get in!”

Miyeon’s eyes shut again, feeling Yuqi’s hand brush against her bare shoulder, slowly peeling back the duvet.

“She’s not wearing anything on her back… Hmm…” Yuqi stepped back, Soyeon shifting her body slightly on top of Minnie, before yelping. “What?!”

“I saw a side boob. I saw a side boob!”

Yuqi made a face. “So? You have boobs. Did you think they were two dimensional?” she deadpanned. “It only counts if you see a nipple. And I don’t want to do that. We should go.”

“Go where?” Minnie groaned, finally waking up. “Oh. You’re here. Don’t come in the bed. I fucked Miyeon last night.”

“Dude!” Miyeon groaned.

“Oh, so she is awake!” Soyeon pointed, Minnie yawned and stretching her arms up.

“I mean, come if you want. Just don’t touch us or look down.”

“Oh… we’re good. Thanks,” Yuqi grinned awkwardly. “You probably want some time together anyway.”

“How are you feeling?” she asked, reaching out to pat her clothed body. “I hope these are your clean ones.”

“Of course,” Yuqi rolled her eyes. “I feel better. A little out of energy, though.”

“That’s normal,” Miyeon dismissed, flopping around as she turned to face them. “As you can see,” she added.

“You’re right…” Minnie mumbled. “This is an odd conversation to have with students.”

“You still just see us as students?” Yuqi scoffed. “We’ve given your life advice and listened to you having sex. Don’t you think we’re a little closer now, dynamic-wise?”

Minnie turned back to Miyeon. “Nah. I don’t know, guys.”

“Yeah, beats me,” Minnie yawned once more. She sat up slowly, covering her chest with a pillow as she pulled her shirt back on, pulling the duvet away and swinging her legs off the side. Soyeon and Yuqi screamed, covering their eyes. "Oh my god, you guys. I’m fully dressed! So is she… kind of.”

“You said-“

“We got cold! I dressed myself and put some stuff on her. I mean, I don’t know if we’re wearing the right stuff but we tried, right?” she shrugged. Yuqi sat on her lap, Minnie climbing back into bed. Soyeon sat in front of her, Minnie keeping her knees to her chest.

“Did you wash your hands?” Yuqi gave her a look.

“Yes!” Minnie groaned. “Now, why are you both here?”

“We wanted to say something actually…” Soyeon mumbled, glancing over towards Miyeon, before back at Minnie. “About our coursework.”

“Oh guys!” Minnie groaned. “I’ve just woken up!” she whined.

Yuqi placed her head on her shoulder. “Listen, unnie,” she placed a hand on her leg. “My whole portfolio is finished… and Soyeon’s. You did the twenty slides that were due in for February, after our product… When?”

Minnie shrugged, rubbing her eyes. “I don’t know. now?”

“Why?” Soyeon pressed. “You looked exhausted yesterday when you were helping Shuhua.”

“I didn’t!”

“You had your hand on your forehead. You were really tired.”

Minnie shook her head. “It’s fine. I want you to focus on your chemistry work. Yuqi, Mac is concerned about you, and Soyeon, I don’t want you to be behind next month,” she warned. “You’ve also got maths to do. It’s easier if you get your coursework done with now so you spend time studying, so you get a better grade.”

They nodded slowly. “You should sleep. We’re your students but we also know how to manage ourselves. After all, we’re graduating in a few months anyway,” Soyeon smiled. “You’re supposed to rest. We were just worried about you.”

“Hey, hey. I’m your teacher. Don’t worry about me,” she chuckled.

Yuqi gazed at her. “You’re more than that,” she nudged her, Soyeon crawling up to hug her.

Minnie laughed, kissing both of their foreheads. “Alright, you babies. Go back to your rooms and get ready. We’re doing study first and then a museum, and then a shopping mall tonight with dinner,” she patted their backs, fist bumping both of them before they escaped the room.

As the door shut, she sighed, relaxing in her spot in the bed.

“We should get up,” she rolled over to Miyeon, leaning down and kissing her cheeks.

“Mhm,” she mumbled, standing up quickly and walking over to grab her things, before moving straight for the bathroom without another word.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

Miyeon stood outside the coach, counting each student as they stepped inside. Minnie was still nowhere to be seen, perhaps with another student or teacher in the hotel.

“Who are you looking for, miss? Your girlfriend?” Semi scoffed as she walked up to her. Miyeon turned back to look at her, eyes hardening. Her mouth glued shut. “Lesbian,” she snarled, Miyeon about to throw hands, before the student next to her stopped her.

“What did you say?” Soojin gritted her teeth, grabbing her shoulder and spinning her around. Miyeon herself was taken aback. Soojin had never been so cold before. “Let it go.”

“You’re just jealous she has friends!” another student argued, a student that Miyeon had notably never even spoken to before. “This is why nobody likes you, Semi!”

“Fuck off,” she raised her fist, Miyeon pushing the trio apart.

“Hey, no fighting,” she reprimanded sternly. “Semi-“

“I’ll deal with her,” Minnie came forth from wherever she was before, eyes locked on her phone with her hand out in front of Semi. “You, come here. Cho-ssaem, keep counting.”

Miyeon nodded, giving a small smile to Soojin and her friend. “Thank you,” she whispered, Soojin taking her hand and squeezing it.

“If you are together, you guys are cute,” she giggled, skipping up the steps.

“Semi, you’ve been acting off this whole trip. I don’t know if this is normal behaviour, but you should stop before you say something that damages your career,” Minnie warned. “Cho-ssaem and I are doing our jobs, to look after all of you. I’ve never taught you before, and you may know that I just moved to Korea from a different country, so we’re close because she has helped me settle in. I don’t need to explain anything to an almost twenty year old woman, but I believe that you should treat everyone with respect. Especially your teachers.”

Semi stared at the ground, arms folded across her chest. “Whatever,” she mumbled. “You’re like, the same age as us. You can drop the act,” she scoffed.

Minnie shook her head. “You should respect your peers too, Semi, and the students who are younger than you,” she lowered her voice. “I want you to apologise to Cho-ssaem. For your behaviour today and yesterday,” she glared at her.

Semi rolled her eyes, turning back to the coach, Minnie following her in. She walked down the aisle, checking everyone’s seatbelts, before noticing Shuhua sitting alone. There were only two seats left, presumably for herself and Semi. The other was beside Miyeon.

“Shuhua-yah, this coach is smaller, so someone will have to sit next to you,” she winced, Shuhua taking her backpack and placing it under her seat.

“You?”

“It’s me or Semi,” she smiled weakly. “If I sit with you, she’ll go with Miyeon.” She looked up, Semi standing disgruntled at the front of the coach, waiting.

“It’s okay. You sit with Cho-ssaem. I’ll put my earphones in,” she shrugged.

Minnie kissed her forehead quickly. “Are you sure?” she cupped her cheek, Shuhua nodding quickly. “Okay, baby.” She stood back up, gesturing to the other girl. “Sit with Shuhua,” she ordered, Semi rolling her eyes once more as she dropped beside her.

Minnie nodded in satisfaction, walking up and sitting beside Miyeon.

“She’s unbearable,” Miyeon mumbled.

“Well, it was me or her sitting next to you just now,” she giggled. Miyeon swatted her side. “Hey, I let Shuhua pick! I told Semi to apologise to you. If she doesn’t, let me know.”

“Why did you put it down to Shuhua?” she pouted. “Always putting her before me!”

“She’s a student,” she giggled, “and us sitting next to each other doesn’t do well for the allegations.”

“Well, I don’t care!”

“It’s fine,” she shrugged. “I was thinking she would apologise to you, but it’s too fresh right now, and the journey isn’t terribly long.”

Miyeon sat back in her seat. “Soojin has a friend. I don’t know her, but she defended me.”

“Get to know her,” Minnie nodded. “All of Soojin’s friends are good.”

“Right?” Miyeon smiled. “I like your outfit, by the way.”

Minnie nudged her. “It’s just jeans and a top,” she shrugged.

“A nice one. Wasn’t Yuqi wearing something similar yesterday. It’s weird we have the same wardrobe as our students.”

“But do we still call them that? I think acquaintances works best,” Minnie grinned.

“I thought you said accomplices,” Miyeon laughed, gazing out of the window. She heard a click behind her, whipping her head around to see. “You took a pic?”

“A candid. It’s cute! Memories,” she reminded, tapping at her brain. Miyeon did the same.

“Smart,” she agreed. “So, what did Soyeon and Yuqi talk to you about this morning? I fell asleep momentarily.”

Minnie shrugged. “Just school work,” she dismissed. “Nothing deep.”

Miyeon was about to respond when she received a text. “It’s from Soyeon,” she glanced at her phone. Minnie raised her eyebrows. “Oh… interesting. She wants us to split up at the mall. She’s saying… you go with Yuqi… she goes with me… and we get each other things! Hey, she’s onto something.”

“Really? Are you sure?” she gave her a look. “It sounds cute but don’t you want to do your own shopping?”

“Well, and that! We can just pick stuff up for each other too.”

“And what if we get the same things?”

“More for everyone,” she argued. “Please?! She’s got a point.”

Minnie sighed, looking down. “Honestly, Miyeon, I had plans to be with Shuhua,” she winced. “I’m sorry. I just don’t think she’s been doing well, and I wanted her to be with someone and feel comfortable. This is her trip too and she isn’t helping herself one bit.”

Miyeon stared at her. “Oh…” she mumbled after a few moments. “I see.”

“I’m sorry. It’s our trip but the kids come first,” she insisted. “Shuhua needs me. You can come with us, of course! I wasn’t really planning on doing it alone. I just… can’t do this whole plan.”

“Can’t she just join us? We can do it either way.”

“Her biggest thing is third wheeling and invading people’s space,” Minnie argued. “If she’s with us as a four, she’ll feel uncomfortable.”

“But it’s just your class.”

“I know. It’s in her head. I don’t want to make it worse,” she insisted. “I’m sorry.”

“Fine,” Miyeon sighed. “So, we do school, then museum, and then mall, okay?”

“Yeah. Perfect. Text her back,” Minnie smiled. “Also, Miyeonnie,” she grinned.

Miyeon looked up, tilting her head.

“You’re so cute! I just wanted to say something.”

“Yeah, what?” Miyeon frowned.

“Never dye your hair dark again!” she ordered.

Miyeon nudged her. “If you’ll pay for my roots every month, sure,” she agreed, Minnie squealing and wrapping her arms around her.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Hey,” Minnie ran up to Shuhua, who was walking around the museum exhibition alone. Shuhua pulled out her earphones, looking up at her.

“Hi?” she turned her music down, shoving her phone in her pocket.

“I was wondering if you had any plans in the mall tonight before dinner,” she began, walking alongside her. She looked up, Miyeon having a quiet conversation with Semi in the corner. She’d have to ask her what it was about later.

“Just walk around, I guess,” she shrugged. “Why? You need me?”

“No… I don’t need you, but, I thought it would be nice if we went around together,” she suggested. “I haven’t spent much time with you at all this trip. I want to know my own students well, at least.”

“Don’t you want to go with Cho-ssaem? Or even Yuqi and Soyeon?”

“I haven’t seen you enough,” she insisted. “It’ll be fun. We can go to the shops. I’ll buy.”

Her eyes widened. “You don’t need to, ssaem,” she shook her head. “I’m fine by myself.”

“But I want to see you!” she pressed, the pair coming to a standstill in front of the café. Minnie sighed, feeling a familiar ache in her forehead, and a flash of pink and yellow. She blinked a few times, adjusting herself.

“Fine,” Shuhua gave in, turning her back towards her. Minnie nodded in satisfaction, about to walk away, before Shuhua turned back around. “You should sleep on the coach,” she added, before disappearing amongst the crowd of students.


Minnie tilted her head, jolting when she felt a hand around her waist.

“You okay?”

She looked up, Mac standing in front of her. He leaned in, pressing a hand against her forehead. “I’m fine,” she pulled away from him. “Just trying to get Shuhua to talk to me.”

“Hey, if she wants her personal space, you should let her be,” he suggested, keeping his eyes on her. “You look tired. You want to sit down?”

“I’m fine,” she shrugged him off, Mac keeping his hand on her shoulder. Minnie tried to pull away again, successfully, before resorting to collapsing against him.

“Did you not sleep well?” he bent down.

“I’m fine,” she insisted, pushing away from him. “I’m going to find Miyeon. Semi was talking to her.”

Mac nodded, patting her head as she walked the other way, Miyeon milling around by herself, watching the students. “Did she say something?” Minnie asked, Miyeon turning to her.

“Barely apologised. I said it wasn’t good enough,” she scoffed.

Minnie sighed. “What do you want her to do?”

“Accept the kind of person she is. A bully.”

“I don’t think the students like her either,” Minnie mumbled, looking around the exhibition. “Shuhua didn’t seem thrilled to be with her.”

“She’s unlikeable,” Miyeon agreed. “So, what did Shuhua say?”

“I’ll spend time with her this evening. Hopefully it’ll make her feel better.” Miyeon nodded. “You’ll go around with Mac?”

“No, no. Yuqi and Soyeon.”

“Third wheeling?” she giggled. “Okay, sounds good.”

“Can I just say, uh… are you sure Shuhua wants this? Like, you want to look after her, but maybe all she needs is time by herself.”

“She’s been alone this whole trip,” she pointed out. “I thought she and Yuqi and Soyeon were close!”

“Yuqi and Soyeon are dating. She doesn’t want to come between them.”

“She wouldn’t,” Minnie argued. “They adore her. They talk about her.”

“She feels uncomfortable. Let her be,” Miyeon dismissed. “We need to go back on the coach soon,” she looked out of the window. “It’s getting dark.”

“How many hours in the mall?”

“Two, and then dinner, and then the subway back to the hotel,” she placed her hands on her hips.

Minnie smiled at her. “You’ve done really well, putting all of this together.”

She blushed. “It’s hardly anything,” she shook her head.

“It’s good. The students are enjoying it. You’ve incorporated just enough shopping within all the educational stuff.”

“You know what they’re like,” she giggled, glancing at Shuhua, who was staring at a highly interesting wall. “Her alpaca is in her bag. I’m happy she likes it.”

“Kids like everything cute and fluffy,” she shrugged. Shuhua glanced towards them, Miyeon smiling endearingly. She raised her hands, making a squeezing action, Shuhua lighting up and nodding.

“Mian Mian,” Minnie called, laughing under her breath. Soojin turned around, placing a hand on top of Shuhua’s and dragging her into a conversation.

“She has Soojin. I forget sometimes,” Miyeon added.

“But you can’t expect Soojin to give up her friends for Shuhua. I mean, they’re good friends, but if hers don’t like her, she can’t change it,” Minnie defended. “It’s okay. Shuhua has who she has. I’m sure she’s in contact with her friends at school.”

“Which are…?” Miyeon wondered.

Minnie paused. “I don’t know. Haven’t you noticed?”

“Well, it was Soyeon and Yuqi. I assume things have changed since they became a couple.”

“Seriously…” Minnie folded her arms. “I should talk to her today. Maybe she feels alone,” she suggested, Miyeon agreeing with a grunt.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Okay, this or this?” Soyeon shoved two packets of nail glitter in front of her.

“The Tokyo Girls Collection,” Miyeon recognised. “I have every single thing they own.”

Yuqi giggled. “Which?! She’s doing my nails tonight.”

“This one,” she pointed to the one with pink sequins. “Tonight? When are you sleeping?!” she laughed.

“Yuqi will sleep while I paint, and then I’ll sleep while they dry,” Soyeon explained. “Okay, this is good,” she took the pink one, glancing at the gold. “Nah. I’m getting both.”

“I found these nice hair accessories,” Yuqi placed them in their basket. “There’s a whole wall of rings. You might like them.”

“I’m not a ring person,” Miyeon shook her head. “It knocks against the pen when I’m writing.”

“So?! You’re not writing all the time!”

“I am most of the time,” Miyeon patted her shoulder. “Hey, look at those keyrings.”

“Miffy!” Soyeon bounded over to them, grabbing a few.

“You can get those in China for half the price,” Yuqi made a face.

“Whatever,” Soyeon scowled, placing them in her basket. “Hey, I might buy this whole store. Are you in?”

“Heck yeah,” Yuqi grinned. Miyeon ran her eyes up and down the cosmetics. “Get something! Don’t make us look like the irresponsible ones!”

Miyeon chuckled, placing a few items and jewellery in her own basket. “You can’t stay in here forever. You know there’s another jewellery store down there?”

“Really?!” Soyeon squealed, dumping ten or so more things in her basket and dashing towards the counter to pay. Yuqi followed, and then Miyeon. In line, there was a stack of perfume samples, Yuqi lifting one up and spraying it on Miyeon’s neck.

Miyeon watched her replace it, lean in to sniff it. “Oh… that’s good,” she smudged a little with her thumb, Miyeon agreeing. “How much is it?”

“I don’t care,” Yuqi dumped three bottles in her basket. Miyeon raised her eyebrows, watching her walk up to the next available cashier.

“Look at all this free stuff!” Soyeon handed her a stack of face masks. Miyeon’s eyes widened as she shoved them into her bag.

“Dude! Stop!”

“Why?! Give them to Kim-ssaem! I’m sure she’ll be very pleased,” She teased, nudging her.

Yuqi finished, Miyeon walking through. “Look what I bought,” she showed Soyeon the three perfumes, handing one to her. “The other is for her,” she handed to Miyeon as she finished paying.

“What?” she frowned.

“Take it! I’m not using three!”

“Then why did you buy three?!” she groaned.

“Because it smells good!” Yuqi whined. “I’m thirsty. Oh! Gongcha!”

Miyeon led them in, Soyeon launching herself up to the employee. Yuqi followed, the pair practically shouting their orders.

“S-sorry… I don’t speak Korean…” the server winced. Soyeon paused, turning back to Miyeon, who moved up to the scene.

“What did you guys want?” she turned to them both, the pair pointing at the items on the menu. She narrowed her eyes. “The mango… mini pearl… yeah… that,” she pointed, “and a taro milk.”

“With tapioca,” Yuqi insisted.

“Yeah. That.”

“Large or regular?”

“Large!”
“Large!!”

“Large,” Miyeon repeated. “You can understand Japanese better now,” Miyeon mumbled, pulling out her card to pay.”

“It’s because Soyeon watches too much anime,” Yuqi stuck out her tongue.

“Hey, don’t pay,” Soyeon whined, Miyeon having already put her card away.

“It’s fine. You bought me stuff from there. It makes up for it,” she argued.

Yuqi stared at her inquisitively, taking her hand and spreading her fingers between hers. Miyeon didn’t bother to look up from her phone, Yuqi busy twisting them over each other. “Your fingers are very bony.”

“Thank you, Yuqi-yah,” Miyeon nodded.

Yuqi placed their palms together, holding her hand. “So, Kim’s with Shu? Cute.”

“I think Shuhua’s apprehensive of third wheeling on you two,” Miyeon mumbled.

“Right. She like, literally runs away from us,” Soyeon snorted. “I’m glad Minnie-unnie’s doing something.”

Yuqi wrapped her arms around her, resting her forehead on her shoulder. “I’m taller than you,” she challenged unnecessarily.

“Good girl. Keep eating your vegetables and you can grow even taller!” Miyeon backhandedly encouraged, leaving Soyeon very hurt and confused in the corner.

Yuqi grinned, nuzzling against her shoulder. “Don’t listen to Semi. She’s just jealous because you’re hot.”

“O-oh…”

“Hey! Don’t say it like that!” Soyeon whined, pushing them apart. “You’re just very pretty, ssaem. Yuqi’s being a heckler.”

“Hey, hey, I’m not! Semi’s just a bitch.”

“Right,” Soyeon yawned.

Their drinks were complete, the pair grabbing them. Yuqi took four straws, puncturing her lid with one and handing it to Miyeon. “You try ours first. Soyeon keeps saying taro is bad, but she’s the one with shit taste.”

Miyeon blushed, shaking her head. “Hey, hey, it’s fine. They’re yours.”

Yuqi pouted. “Are you sure?” Miyeon giggled, coming in between them and squeezing their hands. Soyeon power sucked her mango drink, having already reached halfway. She looked up at Miyeon, who wiped the corner of her mouth with her thumb.

“Baby,” she chuckled. “Where to now? The record shop?”

“Ooh!” Soyeon pointed at a small boutique, a large ‘no food or drink’ sign nailed to the wall. She turned back to Miyeon, who took her cup so she could run inside. Yuqi stared longingly, before turning back to Miyeon.

“I have two hands,” she laughed, Yuqi handing her the cup and pecking her cheek, running into the store.

“Babysitting?” one of the store helpers came up to her, not much older than her.

“Teenagers,” she laughed.

“They’re your nieces?”

“No, my students. They graduate in a few months, so this is their final celebratory school trip.”

“Oh, where are you from?”

“Korea,” she smiled, Soyeon emerging from the changing room in a pink jumper. Miyeon nodded, unable to give her a thumbs up.

“You’re close?”

“I’ve known them for a long time,” she explained, giving Yuqi a look of pure disgust as she pulled open the changing room door.

“They’re a bit short, aren’t they?!” she shouted, Miyeon wincing and nodding slowly. Yuqi sighed, slipping back into the room.

Soyeon returned with two full bags. “Jeez, how much did you spend?”

“Not a lot. Anything that doesn’t fit is going on Vinted,” she grinned. Miyeon placed her hand on her forehead.

“Okay, I guess,” she sighed handing her the drink. Miyeon handed her Yuqi’s taking her shopping bags from her. Soyeon squeaked, before calming down as Miyeon organised them in an increasingly easier to hold fashion. “Put the small bags in the big ones next time,” she reprimanded, bending down to rearrange her shopping.

The shopping assistant left to help Yuqi, whose head was stuck in a top. “It’s one size. I don’t know how she thought that top was going to fit her,” Soyeon chewed on her straw. “Hey, you should buy Kim some gifts.”

“I will, I will,” she mumbled, standing back up. Yuqi waddled back to them, one small bag in hand.

“I got a skirt and a top,” she mumbled, Soyeon handing her her drink.

“You’re lucky you came now. I was about to finish yours too,” she scowled.

Yuqi sucked on it, moving back to cuddle Miyeon, who kissed her forehead. “You’ve been so clingy today,” she noticed. “Is everything okay?”

Yuqi nodded with a smile, feeling Miyeon’s arm slide around her waist. She kissed the top of her head, Soyeon picking up all of her bags, tossing her empty cup. The pair began to walk behind Soyeon, who turned back, Miyeon opening her other arm for her to run into.

Chapter Text

Shuhua rummaged through a thrift store, Minnie hanging behind her closely. Her phone buzzed in her pocket, but she was determined to not look at it.

“What do you think of this?” she pulled out a lace-lined top, red in colour.

Minnie peered at it. “It’s a nice shape, but the colour’s a little strong, don’t you think?” Shuhua pursed her lips, nodding. “Put it in the basket. You can take it out later.”

“Yeah…” Shuhua handed it to her, before turning back to the rack. “This feels wrong.”

“What?” Minnie frowned, moving closer to her.

“Just, this. Being in a mall, doing nothing useful…” She pulled away. “I should revise,” she mumbled.

“Hey, no,” Minnie insisted. “This is to give you a break. You don’t need to study!”

Shuhua gave her a look, Minnie staring at her with begging eyes. “Fine,” she sighed, pulling out a short skirt. “My parents would hate me if I came home in this,” she scoffed, placing it back.

“But do you like it?”

“Love. It’s my style. But in my household I can’t have that, because of how strict they are. T-shirt, and straight jeans. That’s it,” she mumbled dejectedly. “I guess most of my frustration comes from them. They don’t like girls. They wanted sons, but they got me and my sisters instead,” she explained sadly. “So they like to have full control over us.”

“Shu,” Minnie placed a hand on her shoulder.

“They think studying is everything, so surely, if I do well, I could maybe… buy myself a drink when I go out with my friends?” She shook her head. “That top is out of the question. My mother hates everything with lace. Says it’s slutty,” she placed the hanger back. “I can’t wait for January. I’ll be an adult. I can move out, and I can do what I like!”

“It’s not that simple,” Minnie smiled sadly. “Buy the top. It will make you happy.”

“There’s no point. They’ll take it from me anyway,” she sighed. “I hate them.”

Shuhua pulled away from the rack, moving towards the accessories. Minnie sighed, grabbing a small basket and placing the top inside, as well as the skirt and the other clothes Shuhua had given some time to looking into. She grabbed another leather jacket she’d been eyeing, placing it on top.

Walking over to Shuhua, she noticed a small leather handbag in her hand.

“Oh, I like that,” Minnie whispered, Shuhua placing it in her basket.

She looked up at her. “I wish you were my umma,” she mumbled, walking away.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Lowkey, I want my hair done like Kim-ssaem’s,” Yuqi mumbled, walking past a hair salon. “Remember those pink highlights?!”

“I’m pretty sure they were just extensions,” Soyeon shrugged. “But they were nice. I like your hair, unnie. I’m just surprised it’s so healthy.”

Miyeon shook her head. “I’ll be chopping all of it off soon.”

“WHAT?!”

“NO!”

“It’s very, very broken, guys. Completely damaged. My hair has more volume because of the split ends, if anything.”

Soyeon whined, dropping into a squat. “My feet hurt. We’ve been shopping too hard!”

Miyeon glanced at her phone. “We’re assembling in twenty minutes. Hang in there, kid.”

“Bro…”

Yuqi lifted her back up. “You’re going to regret not shopping more later,” she warned. “We still haven’t been to the gashapons.”

Soyeon lit up, diving into the first one she saw, Yuqi running up after her.

Miyeon was about to follow, when she caught Minnie in the corner of her eye.

“Hey,” she walked up to her, Shuhua on her phone beside her.

“Hey. We’re resting. We’ve been standing for too long,” Minnie grinned, shifting her five bags and placing them under the bench. Miyeon sat beside them, Shuhua sliding her phone away. “We’ve been to many shops, and we’ve been doing a lot of browsing.” She was about to continue, when a sharp pain pierced through her brain. She groaned, before dismissing it quickly. “You smell of Yuqi,” she changed the subject.

“Yeah, she was hugging me quite a bit today. Maybe she’s missing home.”

Minnie nodded, turning to Shuhua. “How are you feeling? Less tired? There’s a cosmetics store we can have a look at. We can see if they have something in your shade?”

Shuhua nodded hesitantly, Minnie standing up and taking the bags. “I’ll stay for those two in there,” she pointed. “I probably won’t get Soyeon out at any point within the next ten minutes.”

“Right,” Minnie laughed, taking Shuhua’s hand. “Could you text me the location of the meeting point? It’s a lot to get the document up, and the Wi-Fi is terrible in here.”

“Of course,” Miyeon nodded. “Go, both of you. Before dinner.”

Minnie bumped her forehead against hers gently, before walking into the other direction with Shuhua. Miyeon turned back to the gashapon, hesitantly heading in that direction.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“The girls want to see us tonight.”

Minnie stared at the black TV screen. “I need to talk to Shuhua.” Her eyes darted to the brown bag in the corner of the room.

“What is that?” Miyeon mumbled.

Minnie sighed. “Shuhua wanted all of these clothes but was scared of what her parents would say. I bought them anyway… because she’d regret it.”

“If she can’t wear them, what’s the point?”

“She’ll be an adult soon, and move out for university. Her parents will probably move back to Taiwan. She’ll have freedom, and when will she have time to come back and get everything she wants?”

Miyeon hummed. “How much was it all?” she asked quietly.

Minnie shook her head, glancing at her phone. “I need to see Mac, too. We have to call our brother.”

Miyeon sat up. “The twin, right? Mic?” Minnie nodded, their bedroom door opening.

“Okay, this time we have a good film, and no, we won’t fall asleep! I promise!” Yuqi shouted unnecessarily, climbing into the bed beside Miyeon. Soyeon smiled, Minnie lifting her on and settling her in her arms.

“Alright, alright. Put it on,” Miyeon giggled, handing her the remote. “Jagi, you should go now,” she turned to Minnie.

“Go where? We just got here,” Soyeon pouted.

Minnie ignored her, sliding out of the bed and pulling one of the items from the bag, that she placed in the suitcase, and left the room.

“What?” Yuqi whined.

“Hey, hey, she’ll be back soon,” Miyeon stroked her head, the pair turning to each other in confusion.

Minnie yawned, walking down the corridor, the white garment in her hand, before reaching Shuhua’s room.

“Hey, can I come in?” she called, knocking on it. Soojin opened it.

“Shuhua?” She nodded. “I’ll give you some space.” She slipped out, walking towards the lifts.

Minnie walked in, shutting the door. Turning the corner, Shuhua was tucked in bed, reading something on her kindle. She looked up, smiling a little to see her.

“Ssaem,” her voice croaked. Minnie sat beside her, Shuhua hugging her tightly. “Can you lie beside me?”

Minnie hesitated, before shifting over to lie down over her duvet. “When are you going to sleep?” she chuckled, stroking her cheek, that she squeezed.

“Soon. I was reading some physics notes,” she showed her the screen.

Minnie shuffled over to peck her cheek. “I know today was rough for you, but I’m glad you had fun.” She nodded. “Don’t revise too hard, please?”

“I’ll try,” she shrugged. “If I don’t do well, I’ll get disowned.”

“Baby, that’s not true. They love you-“

“They don’t. They don’t like any of us. I told you, we’re girls. They hate it. They think girls are just good for arts and… I don’t know. Things that don’t require a lot of intelligence in academic fields. I told them they were wrong, and now, if I can’t prove it, I’ll be sent away. It’s just fate that I’m the stupidest in all of my classes.”

Minnie lay on her back. “I wasn’t the smartest in my school,” she admitted. “But I was also in a very good school. You’re doing way above average, you know? Some students are just aiming to pass.” Shuhua shook her head. “I was the worst in my school. I did the STEM stream, like you’re doing, and I was the worst at chemistry, physics… even engineering.” Shuhua looked up. “I know, right?” she chuckled. “I was the worst in my class. My scores were below the expected level. I had terrible teacher reports. But I knew that I just had to study and do well in the real exam at the end of the year. Who cares if I was asking stupid questions in class? It was my grade, not theirs. And they could judge me all they wanted, but I had my friends in other classes, and I didn’t need them. I couldn’t care less if they called me stupid behind my back.” She cleared her throat. “You have to ask questions in class, Shu. A plus B won’t equal C by just reading a textbook. We’re qualified for a reason. Schools exist to help you.”

Shuhua sighed. “It’s not that simple, and I’m always trying. It’s just… my parents, and then school, and then… it’s a lot to think about.”

“What’s on your mind?” Minnie turned on her side, Shuhua moving closer to her.

“I guess… Yuqi and Soyeon are free to do whatever and they’re doing well in school. They’re even dating! If my parents found out I had a boyfriend before twenty five, they would kill me… And then, I can’t wear what I like. I can’t go out with friends because they hate me spending money when it isn’t on academics. Sometimes I wish I could be normal. I wish I could go shopping and just be an average teenager.”

“Did they explain why?”

“I told you,” she whined in agitation. “The whole not being a boy thing.”

Minnie sighed, handing the skirt to her. “I bought it. You would have regretted it.”

Shuhua stared at it with glassy eyes. “What’s the point? I can’t wear it.”

“Talk to them.” She shook her head. “You can’t,” she nodded slowly.

Shuhua gazed at her. “I mean, th-thank you, you didn’t have to do it… I told you. I wish you were my mother. You care about me more than she does. She doesn’t talk to me on a daily basis. Only discuss my low grades.”

“There’s a parent-teacher meeting the week after we land. Do you want me to say something?”

Shuhua’s eyes flashed with fear. “No, please! Don’t do it! D-don’t…”

Minnie nodded. “Alright. You’re doing just fine. Don’t worry.”

“Fifty percent? Really?”

“And you didn’t know the topics. Cho-ssaem said. She’s not going to tear you apart in the meeting, you know?”

“Why wouldn’t she? She hates me after what I did. And I hate her. Why does she hate me all the time?”

Minnie shut her eyes, replaying what she had said in confusion. “Oh,” she whispered. “Why do you think she hates you?”

“She ignores me in lessons and always tells me to be quiet. I swear she glares at me in the corridors. A-and then, like yesterday or whenever it was, and we were in the classroom-“

“Slow down,” Minnie rubbed her side gently, Shuhua hyperventilating beside.

“-a-and sh-she told me off for studying at n-night-“

“She wants to look after you.”

“No, she hates me.”

Minnie sighed. “That’s not true.”

“You’re j-just saying that because you like her!” she cried. “She can say what she wants to, but I see the look in her eyes.”

“Baby, no,” Minnie pulled her closer. “She’s just defensive. It’s a personal thing, not you. She told me herself that she’s just worried about you.” Shuhua shook her head, burying her face in her shoulder. “Are you scared of her?” She nodded. “Why?”

“She’ll probably agree with my parents-“

“Would she really?”

“About girls being stupid and doing art instead? Yes.”

“Shu, she’s a woman in STEM-“

“Teaching is different. She’s not inventing anything. Teaching is a girly job.”

“Your parents said that? I don’t understand. How can your mother be misogynistic?” She shrugged. “Look I think you need to talk to Cho-ssaem. I think you’re reading her wrong-“

“How? She’s been like this since I joined. She’s never liked me. She always favours Soojin over me, and Yuqi over the rest of the class!”

“Well, she shouldn’t be picking favourites in the first place. Do you want me to speak to her?”

“I don’t want you to fall out again.”

“I think our friendship gives me a better chance of getting through to her. Although, I can’t take your word for it. Cho-ssaem claims she teaches you all the same.”

“She looks at Yuqi differently, and always talks to Soojin. If we meet in the corridor she just teases me. It’s never like the way she talks to them.”

“Baby,” Minnie sighed, wrapping her arms around her. Shuhua sobbed into her shoulder, snuggling into her chest.

“Can you stay tonight?” she whispered.

Minnie pulled away. “Do you think Soojin’s okay with her friends?” She nodded quickly. “Okay. I’ll stay,” she stroked her head back, kissing her forehead.

“I wish you were my umma,” she sniffled.

Minnie pulled the duvet over herself, Shuhua fully attaching herself onto her. “I can’t be, baby. I’m less than six years older than you…”

“I don’t care!” she whined, slowly sinking into her embrace.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Minnie’s not come back,” Miyeon sighed. “I think Shuhua really needed a word with her.”

“Shuhua’s been acting weird,” Yuqi agreed.

Soyeon placed her head on Miyeon’s chest. “We should talk to her more, but she runs away from us.”

Miyeon pursed her lips. “Yuqi, am I scary in class?”

“What?” Yuqi sat up. “No, what?”

The door opened and shut, Minnie emerging.

“Girls, please go to your room. Miyeon and I need to have a word,” she spoke sternly.

Yuqi and Soyeon nodded, climbing off Miyeon and running out of the room.

“What?” Miyeon frowned. “It’s six in the morning.”

Minnie sat on the bed. “Miyeon, I don’t know what you’re doing in class but Shuhua is scared of you-“

“Not this again,” she rolled her eyes.

“No, no. Listen to me. The kid already has parents that are unsupportive. She thinks you have the same mentality-“

“I’ve never even met them-“

“No, listen,” she sighed. “She says you treat everyone differently in your lessons.”

“Bullshit!” Miyeon sat up, stroking her long blonde hair. “That’s not true.”

“She says you treat Yuqi and Soojin differently-“

“No way! Yuqi talks to me about everything but that doesn’t change how I view them. I- It’s- It’s just…” She groaned. “Whatever.”

“No, go on.”

Miyeon swallowed. “If Yuqi’s going to talk to me, I’m not going to ignore her. And I see her more often because of Soyeon. Shuhua’s got things in her head, I swear.”

“You even talk about her like you don’t like her.”

“Whether I like her or not, I’m treating her the same because she’s my student.”

Minnie pursed her lips. “I know. She exaggerates to me often, but… She has parents who think of women as inferior. They didn’t want her pursuing science. Surprisingly she fears that you’ll agree with their sentiments. I know you don’t, because why the hell would you be teaching science, but I think you should talk to her. About… parents.”

Miyeon looked down, Minnie reaching over to kiss her forehead. “I think homophobia is a little different…”

“But you know what it’s like to be alone. I just…” Minnie sat back. “I don’t think she feels loved. She isolates herself. She latched onto me. She’s scared of you, and every teacher she has, actually. You’re good with students. Shuhua’s different, but she needs attention all the same.”

Miyeon zoned out, nodding slowly. “Fine. I will.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

The tour group came to a stop, waiting for further instruction. Miyeon walked over to Shuhua, who seemed to be listening to music.

“Hey,” she nudged her gently, Shuhua pulling out her earbud. “What are you listening to?”

She looked away. “Music,” she shrugged, her phone flashing up with a notification, revealing the physics podcast. Miyeon narrowed her eyes as Shuhua hid it from her sight, having already noticed the “extra help” letters beside the title.

“You don’t have to hide it from me. I’m happy you’re taking charge-“

“-of my own education, yeah, yeah, you said,” she rolled her eyes. “Miss Kim said something, didn’t she?”

Miyeon shrugged. “Can I listen?”

Shuhua handed her one of the buds, pressing play. Miyeon took her hand in hers, listening closely as they continued to walk. Shuhua watched her carefully.

“What’s the definition of a half life?” she asked suddenly.

“The time it takes for the number of unstable radioactive nuclei in a sample to decrease by half,” she recited monotonously.

“So why are you listening to this? You know the topic.”

Shuhua shrugged, Miyeon handing her back the earphone.

“Kim-ssaem wanted me to talk to you. Apparently you had a good conversation last night.” Shuhua shrugged. “Well, she didn’t come back to our room so I wondered what was up.”

“Nothing. I told her not to say anything.”

“She cares about you, and so do I,” Miyeon insisted, sitting down on a bench as the group was dismissed. “Talk to me.”

Shuhua didn’t say anything, instead staring at the ground.

“Alright, I’ll start,” she mumbled. “I don’t have a good relationship with my parents either. They didn’t support anything that I love. You're friends with Soyeon, aren’t you?” She nodded. “I do music with her. I perform when I’m not teaching.”

“I know. You're a good singer.”

Miyeon smiled with promise. “My parents hated anything to do with music. They wanted me to become a scientist, or a banker. Something that I wasn’t interested in.”

“If you had my parents you’d be fine,” she scoffed.

“Well…” she mumbled. “I don’t think so. Physics is also a passion of mine, hence why I teach it. Of course, they didn’t like the sound of teaching, either. But it’s a reliable income and it gives me what I need- space and time. You don’t have to follow what your parents say, Shu. You should follow your heart. You can resent them, but it’s harder to resent yourself.”

Shuhua nodded. “I guess… So… you don’t talk to your parents?”

“My mother, sometimes. I don’t have siblings, and neither do my parents, so if I cut off that connection, I have nobody.”

“What about your father?” Shuhua spoke quietly.

Miyeon hesitated, before shaking her head.

“What happened?”

Miyeon didn’t want to speak, but didn’t she have to? This whole point was to make herself approachable, and more humanlike than how Shuhua had perceived her so.

“He’s homophobic, and so is his side of the family. I didn’t want him in my life, or in my future child’s life, but clearly he didn’t want me, so we cut ties.”

Shuhua looked up innocently. “You’re…” Miyeon nodded. “Oh… I didn’t know.”

Miyeon patted her head. “I understand your fear. If you don’t please them, so what? You do everything for yourself and no one else. And you’re good enough for your friends and teachers. If they don’t support you, fuck them.”

Shuhua giggled. “I guess…”

“Shu, I never disliked you, ever. And you do better in my classes than you think. Who cares if you fail a test? Just you, fine, but… at the end of the day, no one else does. It doesn’t define you, and your grades aren’t important in the real world. Picking something you love and becoming stronger as a person are what’s important.”

“Okay,” she mumbled.

“And I never had preferences in my classes. That ones in your head,” she laughed.

“So you never hated me?”

They stood up, Miyeon placing her arms around her. “You’re the cutest kid I’ve met. How am I supposed to dislike you? And I’m sorry I gave that impression.”

Shuhua pulled away. “I’m sorry about your parents. I didn’t know.”

“How would you, right?” she shrugged. “I don’t need them, and you’ll soon realise that you don’t necessarily need yours either. If they hold you back, let them go. It’s what I did, and I’m the happiest I’ve been in a long time.”

Shuhua nodded, Miyeon kissing her cheek. “I guess. It’s parents evening when we come back. I’m nervous.”

“That we’ll tear you to shreds? Baby, that’s not the point.”

“You won’t side with them?”

“About what?”

“That I should have done art instead?”

“No,” Miyeon made a face. “There should be more female engineers. I think you’ve picked a good subject, and much more interesting. Again, ignore what they have to say. Focus on yourself and what makes you happy. You're studying to prove a point to them, but who are they? You don’t have to care as much as you do. I didn’t, I’m happier than I would have been if I did, trust me,” she smiled. “Thank you for at least trusting Kim-ssaem. If I couldn’t get through to you, at least someone could. And I’ve always cared about you, Shu. I guess it never came through to you.”

“I know. It was me, I guess. I didn’t let you understand me.”

Miyeon smiled, Shuhua looked up at her. “You promise me you’ll talk to me when you need help?” She nodded. “Don’t suffer in silence, kid. I’m here to help you. We all are. And I’m always on your side. Never your parents, or anyone who is against you. I’ll defend you if you need me to.”

“You would?”

“Shu, your parents sound like nightmares,” she gave in, blankly. “I know I told you I wanted to creative things, but still, having parents with an old fashioned mindset is ridiculous, and honestly, you have every reason to go absolutely insane, so I respect your anger. Of course I’ll defend you. It’s my job. On top of that, you’re way too good at the subjects you’ve selected for them to make you regret your decision. You know, you’re averaging quite well.”

“Kim-ssaem told me she was also failing school most of the time but then studied for the real test and came out on top.”

“Exactly. You're caring about things that don’t really matter. What matters is enjoying your youth while you can. I would kill to not have to work two jobs, you know,” she chuckled.

“But it’s still hard with hagwon and stuff… and everyone’s just better, you know? Ahead of the curriculum. Moving to America and all kinds of really academic things that I can’t even think of.”

“Do your parents want you to move back to China?”

“Taiwan,” Shuhua corrected calmly. “I don’t know. they might. I guess I liked it there with all my friends, but Chinese is their first language so they had more power over me, and I guess that would harm me in the long run as they would be able to control me and make me do what they want.”

“So you should stay here. You're studying in Korean. It makes sense.”

“Yeah, I guess,” Shuhua nodded slowly. “Thank you. I need this.”

“Of course,” Miyeon stroked her head back. “And next time, talk to me, okay? I don’t want you to suffer in silence, and I don’t want you to think that I hate you. I never did, Shu.”

Shuhua smiled a little, Minnie walking up to them.

“So you spoke?” Minnie asked, patting Shuhua’s head. “Shu, we have your back, don’t worry. We’re young women in STEM. Of course we’re there to support you.”

“Thank you,” she blushed.

“Ignore your parents, and wear that skirt Minnie got you. It’s nice. I want one,” Miyeon joked.

“I didn’t want you fighting again so I wasn’t sure if you would… talk about it.”

“Shu, you’re our priority,” Minnie insisted. “I think Soyeon and Yuqi are waiting for you.”

“WHAT?! Why?!”

“They wanted to go around with you. They want you to be with them.”

“Seriously?! I told them not to!”

“But they want to, Shu!” Minnie insisted. “Come on, let’s go,” she took her head, waking her to the train station. “Be back in two hours,” she instructed, the three dashing into the station.

Miyeon came up from behind.

“So, are we going shopping?” she smirked, raising her elbow so Minnie could link arms.

“You know what, yeah. Let’s do it. And I’m buying this time.”

“What! You don’t have to.”

“Of course I do. You bought that stuff for me when we last went out! Come on, even if it’s a few clothing shops. And hey, maybe we can get something else,” she smirked, Miyeon pushing her away in horror.

“Oh you wish,” she gasped.

“Of course I do. Hey, this trip has been quite fruitful, hasn’t it? We made up with our students, got together, and you took my virginity.”

“This is historic,” Miyeon joked.

“Right? And Japanese sex toys are apparently the best, so-“

“I’m going to kill you.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“So what did you say this was?”

“A… tail. Apparently it’s hot,” Minnie shrugged.

Miyeon made a face. “I don’t understand. We’re human. How would a tail be attractive? And where is it going? There’s no belt or…”

“…”

“Oh my god,” she looked up in horror. “Th-that…”

“Yeah…”

Miyeon shoved it back on the shelf. “Dude, you’re the one who’s had like, one orgasm in your entire life. How are you aware of this shit?!”

“Fanfiction,” she yawned.

Miyeon stared at her, jaw hung. “You read fanfiction with nipple tassels and octopus tentacles?”

“Apparently it feels good!” she shrugged.

“Minnie, you didn’t even know what an orgasm was.”

“So? I just thought of that feeling when you take your first bite of an ice cream,” she skipped off into another section.

Miyeon groaned, following her deeper. “How did you find this?” she whined, Minnie grabbing a pair of lingerie from the wall.

“Hey, what do you think? It’s pink,” she winked.

Miyeon took it from her, replacing it. “You don’t need this stuff to make you sexy. I think your face when you orgasm is good enough,” Miyeon pecked her lips.

“Okay, okay,” Minnie laughed. “What about a vibrator?” Miyeon shrugged. “A dildo?” She shook her head. “A blindfold!”

“What do you plan on doing to me…?” she mumbled, watching Minnie dig through a pile of fuckall. “I swear, Min, if you get any of that-“

“Hey, calm down. I’m not actually going to,” she sighed.

Miyeon whined at the distant sound of a sultry moan, burying her face in Minnie’s hair as she continued to gaze at the random rainbow objects. “It’s scary in here. It sounds like she’s going to eat me.”

Minnie laughed, patting her head. “Okay, baby, let’s go,” she kissed her forehead, taking her hand and leading her out of the shop. As soon as they exited, they pulled their face masks off, stuffing them into Minnie’s handbag.

“Can we get ice cream?” Miyeon looked up at the ice cream shop down the floor, Minnie nodding and heading in that direction.

She groaned, locking eyes with Semi as they passed the next few shops, who glared at them, before conversing with her friends.

“At least she didn’t see us in there,” Miyeon bit her tongue.

Minnie chuckled. “You shouldn’t be scared of a student, Miyeonnie.”

“But she’s one of the lethal ones!” she whined, walking into the ice cream parlour. “This is extravagant…”

“Well, I’m in. They have Kuromi shaped ice creams!” Minnie squealed, running to the freezer. Miyeon walked up to the screen, peering down at the flavours. She narrowed her eyes, comparing prices in her head. A double scoop wouldn’t be so bad… right?

“Excuse me?” she mumbled, the man behind the counter pulling away from the computer.

“Hi there. What would you like?”

Miyeon stepped back, running her eyes over each label, trying to remember what the words in English meant. “Uh… please… could I have a double scoop in a cup?” she tried. Minnie sprang back with her ice cream sticks. “Two? They’re going to melt!”

“Bold of you to assume I’m not having them both now,” she scoffed. “What are you getting?”

Miyeon fiddled with her fingers as the man reappeared with the cup and scoop. “O-okay, right… uh… wait, how much more is a triple?”

“Free. It’s Friday!”

“What has that got to do with it?” she mumbled under her breath. “Okay, y-yeah…”

He turned back around. “Dude, you’re acting weird.”

“No, I just… I’ve forgotten all my English. What does any of this say?”

Minnie gave her a look. “Jagi… it’s written in Korean at the top.”

Miyeon glanced up at the screen. “Oh… what the fuck? Right okay.”  The man came back. “Can I get one scoop of… which one is the brownie one?” He pointed to the tub, that she nodded at. “Yeah, one of those, one matcha, and one…”

“I can give you free red bean topping as well,” he added with a smile.

“No thanks…” she tilted her head. “Which one? Strawberry or coconut?” she turned to Minnie.

“Isn’t that mango and coconut?” she pointed. Miyeon groaned.

“And one mango and coconut,” she concluded. “Am I blind?” she whispered.

“Wow, Semi really does fuck with you,” Minnie scoffed. “And these two please,” she placed her ice creams on the counter.

“What toppings would you like?”

Miyeon pointed to a random one. “Is it really her?” she sighed. “I can’t believe students are making me second guess myself.”

“I know, right,” Minnie tapped her card on the reader, grabbing and opening one ice cream, thrusting it in her mouth. “Also, there’s no way in hell you’re finishing all that.”

“I know. I just wanted to try each one.”

“You could have asked for a sample.”

“I don’t know what that is in Japanese!”

“You could have googled it!”

Miyeon sighed, taking her cup and thanking the server, Minnie grabbing her other ice cream, placing it in her bag. She looked up, narrowing her eyes as she gazed into the window of a shop.

“Hey, doesn’t Soyeon like that anime?” Miyeon walked up to it, grabbing her phone. “I doubt she’s come this far down. Do you think we should call her?”


“Minnie, Miyeon!”

Their heads whipped around, Yuqi bounding up to them. “Oh, hey,” Minnie mumbled through her ice cream, Shuhua and Soyeon holding hands and running slowly behind her. Minnie handed her her other ice cream. Yuqi made a face.

“Taro? Gross.”

“Hey! It’s Kuromi!” she pouted.

“So what’s that one?” Miyeon pulled it out of her mouth.

“My Melody!”

Yuqi and Miyeon shrugged, Soyeon running into the anime shop. “How much time do we have?”

“Like, an hour and a half,” Minnie shrugged, having finished her ice cream.

“Oh, right. How long does it take to dye your hair blue?”

“WHAT?”

“We were coercing Shuhua,” Yuqi shrugged, Shuhua having gone with Soyeon. “Blue Shu. It rhymes.”

“And you think that would be okay?” Miyeon groaned. “Are you serious?!”

“What? She said it was fine.”

“Does she have a death wish?” Minnie wondered. “Long. You're not dying her hair blue. Sorry. You can get her extensions, though.”

“Soyeon did. She’s Hatsune Miku at my birthday party next week. She wanted a wig. But they’re really expensive.”

“Can’t she just dye her hair?” Miyeon wondered, as if it was a normal weekend activity.

“She doesn’t like blue enough. She might go pink, though. Hey, unnie, you should go pink!” 

Miyeon watched her in horror. “Absolutely not, what the hell,” she shook her head. “I like it blonde. So does Minnie.”

“I might dye it pink,” she shrugged. “Fun!” She and Yuqi high fived.

Soyeon returned. “All the stuff is in Japanese. Useless,” she spat under her breath, walking in the opposite direction dejectedly.

Shuhua looked up to Minnie, Minnie opening her arms out to hug her.

“Cute,” Miyeon giggled.

“Hey, have you visited the sex shop down there? Apparently there are octopus tentacles. I don’t know. Soyeon mentioned something about them.”

“I saw them on reddit,” Soyeon shrugged.

Minnie pulled away from Shuhua about to say something, but Miyeon cut in. “Yeah, sorry. Let’s not talk about that,” she curled her arm around Minnie’s waist possessively. Shuhua moved away, Minnie pulling Miyeon into a kiss quickly.

Miyeon gasped, a strained whine sounding against her lips, Yuqi coming up behind them. “You know a bunch of people almost saw you, right?” she pulled them away.

“I just wanted to kiss her!” Minnie frowned. “And so what? We’re not celebrities or anything.”

Miyeon blushed. “I guess…”

Shuhua tugged on Minnie’s sleeve, pointing at a photobooth. She looked up to her, Minnie pressing a kiss on her cheek, allowing her to be dragged in that direction.

“Shuhua’s so cute,” Soyeon giggled. “I wish she spent more time with us. I don’t know what happened.”

“Mhm…” Yuqi mumbled, wrapping her arms around her from behind. Miyeon watched forlornly. “Jealous?” Yuqi teased.

“H-huh- what? What? I’m not jealous. Why would I be jealous?” Miyeon panicked.

Yuqi raised her eyebrows, pulling away from Soyeon. “You’re acting very defensive. Are you sure?”

Miyeon looked down. “Why would I be jealous of a student? She’s a kid.”

“And she’s been taking Kim-ssaem’s attention off you,” Yuqi winced.

“I’m okay with that,” Miyeon played with her fingers. Yuqi pulled her into a hug, a soft chuckle escaping her lips. Her hand placed itself on the back of her head. “You’re so cute,” she whispered, palming her cheek as her other arm settled on her waist.

“Yah,” Miyeon mumbled, relaxing into the embrace anyway.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Ssaem,” Shuhua mumbled, Minnie about to leave her room after tucking her in for bed. “Can you stay again?”

Minnie licked her lips. “Baby, we shouldn’t make this a habit,” she stroked her cheek, glancing over at Soojin, who was reading on her bed.

“It’s just this trip. I won’t break into your house. I promise,” she begged. Minnie sat back down, Shuhua tugging her gently, for her lie beside her.

“How can I say no? My cute powdered-sugar donut,” she kissed her forehead. “I need to see Cho-ssaem for a few minutes. I’ll be back,” she sat up, Shuhua grabbing her wrist.

“You know you won’t,” she pouted.

Minnie gulped. “F-fine,” she nodded, Shuhua pulling back the duvet and lying beside her. Shuhua gently moved closer to her, placing her arms around her.

“I love you ssaem,” she babbled, yawning before flopping against her. After a few minutes, quiet snores filled the room, Minnie turning her head to Soojin.

“I’m sorry if this is making you uncomfortable,” Minnie laughed nervously, Soojin placing her book away and leaning over to switch off her reading light.

“Hey, this is what I meant by ‘excited’,” she winked. “Night, Kim-ssaem.”

“Goodnight, Soojin-ah,” she called, turning to fully hold onto Shuhua.

Miyeon groaned, staring at her phone.

“She can’t even check it?”

“Call,” Yuqi encouraged. “I’ll need to go back to my room soon. Soyeon’s on her period and she gets overwhelmingly emotional when I’m not with her. You thought I was bad?”

Miyeon sighed, Yuqi stroking her head. She pressed ‘call’, hearing a phone ring distantly, somewhere in the room. “She left it here,” she sighed, hanging up. “It’s okay. You go.”

Yuqi gave her a look. “You’ll be okay?” she asked, Miyeon nodding quickly. “Alright,” she pecked her cheek. “Give me a hug.”

Miyeon squeezed her quickly, Yuqi kissing her nose. “Thank you,” she mumbled.

“Love you, Miyeonnie. If she doesn’t come back tomorrow morning, drop me a text,” she pulled away, jumping off the bed and heading towards the door.

“W-wait, Yuqi-yah,” Miyeon called. Yuqi turned back around. “She isn’t missing, is she?”

Yuqi licked her lip. “I- I think she’s with Shuhua,” she replied calmly. “Night, Miyeon.”

“Night, Yuqi,” she lay back down, pulling the duvet over her front and frowning at the ceiling. Seriously? Minnie had picked a student over her again?

She shook her head pulling herself out of the room, dragging her feet as she trudged over to Shuhua’s room, knocking on the door.

It opened after a few seconds.

“Hey,” Minnie yawned, rubbing her eyes.

“Dude? Why are you in a student’s room?!” Miyeon whisper-yelled.

“Hey, hey, you can’t talk,” she gulped, adjusting her voice. “Shu wanted me.”

“Shu? I wanted you. Wasn’t there that talk about, I don’t know, doing it tonight?!”

“Doing what?” Minnie mumbled, dumbfounded.

Miyeon rolled her eyes. “You dragged me to that shop for nothing?”

Minnie blinked. “Ohh, shit yeah. Sorry. She didn’t let me leave. I couldn’t even grab my phone. I’m working on- never mind whaaat-“

“You can’t keep picking students over me, you know? Shuhua avoided me. Now you. Who next? Soyeon?”

“You’re not getting anything out of her. She got her period during the mall trip and bled through her white skirt. Apparently she threatened to punch Yuqi in the uterus for telling her ‘it wasn’t a big deal’, and she couldn’t find a single pharmacy to help her out and was relying on toilet tissue for the whole day.” She winced. “Jeez, if she can do that, she can do anything. Is she okay now? Yuqi said she has breakdowns.”

“You’re asking about her?! What about me?!”

Minnie winced. “Shit, sorry. But you’re here and you’re fine.”

“Can I come in?”

“No! Go to Yuqi’s room, although she’s probably occupied with Soyeon.” She was cut off by the sound of a pained groan. “She’s probably giving birth in there, by the sound of things.”

Miyeon rolled her eyes. “Fine. I don’t have your phone. I don’t know where it is.”

“Honestly, neither do I. I’ll see you tomorrow, I promise,” she kissed her lips quickly. “Love you!”

“Love you,” she rolled her eyes, Minnie closing the door.

Minnie yawned, walking back to the bed and picking up her glowing laptop.

“Three more pages,” she mumbled to herself, overviewing Shuhua’s written analysis. “Then fifteen pages for Shuhua, and the full twenty five for Yuqi. That’s doable.”

She was about to type some more, but her laptop was lifted from her lap.

“Sleep,” Soojin whispered, saving the documents and placing it under the bed. “Please?”

Minnie sighed. “Okay,” she groaned, Soojin watching her until she lay down properly.

“I know you want to help them but it’s not…” She sighed. “You’re not helping yourself. You need to sleep. You're really tired. I can tell. Your eyes are glassy and more red with each day. You have Shuhua beside you. She’s the best thing for deep sleeps. Like a free, weighted stuffed animal,” she joked. “Do you want to talk?”

Minnie looked up at the ceiling. “You should sleep.”

“No way that’s happening. I had four Kopikos. That’s an espresso.”

Minnie sighed. “But you don’t want to hear about it.”

“I mean, I don’t mind. You seem interesting. I only see you for twenty minutes every day. If you look after my Soyeon and her friends so well, then I want to know you too.”

“Your Soyeon?” she chuckled.

“Hell yeah. I was in the delivery room when she was born.”

“Oh my god,” Minnie mumbled. “Alright, well,” she cleared her throat. “I guess, all the teachers are angry with me.”

“What? They love you!”

“No, well… I guess not anymore. They found out that I’ve been helping Shuhua, Soyeon and Yuqi with their work. I kind of-“

“-did everything for them, yeah, we know.”

“Right… I said I stopped but I can’t. If I don’t do well, that’s my livelihood gone. And I’m a new teacher as well. If I don’t get them to do well, it’ll look bad on me.”

“That’s not a good solution though,” Soojin winced.

“It is in the long run. I give them more time to mess about before they lock in. I get their work done, review it, hand it in to the head of department, and they’ll moderate it. Then, I’ll have the scores, and I can change what needs to be changed. Boom. Full marks.”

“And that isn’t at all suspicious?”

“Well, I hope not,” she shrugged.

Soojin sighed. “Look, I’m not one to pry, but it looks like you and my physics teacher are very close. She looks at you with the same love she looked at her ex, whom I’m not supposed to talk about, but I saw them at our first parents’ evening. Anyway, she really trusts you, and she seems like the kind of person that has trust issues. I don’t think you’re giving her the time and attention that she warrants.”

“H-huh?”

“I don’t know… I saw her watching you with Shuhua earlier. I guess she seemed a little upset. My friends thought she was just waiting for you to come back to her, but when you didn’t, we were confused. I think she’s close to Yuqi though. They know each other through Soyeon.”

“Right… I didn’t realise.”

“I can’t really know my teachers but… I think Cho-ssaem is a little sensitive. Like, if you have banter, fine, but if you take it too far you’ve instantly made it on the blacklist.”

Minnie sighed. “I met her within my first week of being here, and we instantly hit off, but you’re right. I barely know her.”

“It’s not all too bad. She’s a good person. Hey, she’s a little older than you, right?”

“By a few months, yeah. I don’t know. She just assumed it.”

“Didn’t you say you just graduated?”

“Mhm…?”

“She’s been teaching here for three years. Of course she’s older than you. You don’t call her unnie?”

“No… she said not to.”

“You’re… twenty five?”

“Yeah.”

“I swear she’s almost thirty. Isn’t she twenty eight next year?”

Minnie paused. “Oh. I didn’t realise. Is that bad?”

“No, no. You should be careful if people try to take advantage of you. That’s all. Age is quite big here. It’s nice that she isn’t using it for anything against you.”

“Yeah…” Minnie mumbled. “S-Soojin-ah, I’m really tired now. I might sleep. If you can’t, sleep on the train tomorrow.”

“The train? Ugh. Why does our tour guide love the train? So annoying,” she cursed him under her breath. “Alright, goodnight, Ssaem. Hopefully Shu doesn’t choke you in your sleep.”

“Thanks,” she chuckled. “Goodnight, Soojin-ah.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“How was Shuhua last night?” Miyeon asked reluctantly at breakfast the next morning.

“Better. Coffee?” she offered. Miyeon refused.

“You know you’re getting too close to them, right?”

“What do you mean?”

“The students. Your relationship with them isn’t good.”

Minnie gave her a look as they walked to their table. “I just look after them.”

“We shouldn’t be so close,” she sighed. “It’s not good for them. Shuhua will become dependent on you.”

“That’s not how it works. She just needs someone for comfort.”

“Soojin is there. And we shouldn’t have Yuqi and Soyeon in our room. It went from being sneaky and illegal to a normal thing.”

“Were they with you yesterday?”

“I told you they weren’t. You heard them.”

“Oh… yeah… sorry,” Minnie sighed. “Shuhua is my priority. She has so many things on her mind. She needs love. She clearly doesn’t receive any at home.”

Miyeon nodded. “I understand, but you should be careful.”

“You just want me to see you at night,” she called out, sipping her drink.

Miyeon shook her head, twirling the noodles over her fork. “I think I’m looking out for you as a colleague this time,” she mumbled. “I’m also not sure of myself, but I don’t want you to get into trouble. Shuhua’s family is powerful. So are Yuqi’s. Everyone here has a very strong upbringing. One mistake can bring down your career. I don’t know what revolution game you’re planning with the Yeh family, but think twice before putting yourself and Shuhua into that position.”

Minnie shook her head. “I don’t know,” she mumbled. “Can I just-“ she shook her head, ignoring the aching on the left side. “She said she wishes I was her mother. What do I do?”

Miyeon opened her mouth to tell her off, before shaking her head at the situation. “Fine. Stay with her. I guess she won’t get this opportunity again.”

“Can you not stay with Soyeon? I don’t want to leave you alone but this is a battle she’s having within her family.”

“I can be by myself, Minnie-ah,” she laughed, finally putting the fork in her mouth.

Minnie smiled, holding her hand across the table. “Soojin suggested I call you ‘unnie’. Why did you tell me not to?”

“Are we not the same age?”

“Apparently not.”

She yawned. “I don’t want that to come between us. I really don’t care who’s older. Don’t worry about that stuff,” she dismissed.

Minnie nodded. “Also, I know you said we should distance from the students, but isn’t Yuqi touchy with you?”

“I know. She’s been clingy recently… I don’t know if it’s her or me. Or even Soyeon?”

“Just wait it out. Everyone’s soft and emotional. No one has slept in days.”

“Well they should be,” Miyeon frowned. “What else are they doing?”

Minnie raised her eyebrows. “Really?” she chuckled. “At least we get a lie in tomorrow. Fuji!”

“Mhm…” she sipped Minnie’s coffee. “It’s cloudy, though. I don’t know how much we’re going to see.”

“Find a picture on google and gaslight them,” Minnie grinned. She was about to continue, when Shuhua ran up to them.

“Ssaem, I like your jumper,” she smiled, Minnie patting her head.

“Aw thank you, Shushu,” she blew a kiss. “Have you eaten?” She nodded. “Where are your friends?”

“They went back upstairs.”

“Go with them,” she suggested.

“No I wanted to see you,” she babbled, placing her arms around her neck.

“Cutie. I’ll see you later,” she pulled away. “Wear some sunscreen.”

“I’m bringing my parasol,” she nodded, running away.

“A parasol? Really?” Minnie turned to Miyeon.

“She’s all about being pale, isn’t she?” Miyeon sighed. “Well, we’re almost done, so we should get going.”

“Min, wait,” Mac called from behind them.

Minnie turned around. “Oh, hey! What?”

“You didn’t come yesterday. We were supposed to call Mac!” he walked up to them. “What happened?”

“Shit…” she mumbled. “I’m sorry. I was so tired, a-and Shuhua nee-“

“It’s fine. Just come today, okay?” he requested.

Minnie and Miyeon stood up from their table, Mac kissing her forehead. “Fine.”

“Are you sleeping?”

“Yeah…”

Minnie hugged him tightly. Mac pressed her against his front, lifting hers and Miyeon’s trays from the table as he pulled away.

“You both go. I’ll tidy.”

“You sure?”

“Yeah, yeah. I need to stay here to kick these guys out,” he gestured to the rest of the students.

“Fine,” Minnie nodded, receiving one more kiss on the cheek before the exited.

“He’s more affectionate with you,” Miyeon recognised. “Is everything okay?”

“Should be. Also, I’ll ask the reception for another hotel card for us and Shuhua. That way I can sleep with you but if Shuhua needs-“

“Are you sure you want to do that?” Miyeon winced.

“Yeah?!” Minnie mumbled, entering the lift.

Chapter Text

“Hey, Shu. Yuqi, Soojin and I are going to do a Kahoot on the Egyptians. Want to join us?”

Shuhua stared at Soyeon in bewilderment. “What? Why would you do that?”

“Why not!?” Yuqi yelled.

“N-no thanks…” Shuhua shook her head.

“Girls, to your rooms please,” Mac stuck his head out of his room, Minnie slipping out of it.

“Aren’t you all tired?” Minnie laughed.

“Ooh, what were you doing in there?” Shuhua asked.

“Shu, that’s her brother,” Yuqi groaned. Shuhua looked up in confusion.

“We’re doing a Kahoot on World War 2.”

“I thought you said-“

“We’re doing both,” Yuqi cut Shuhua off.

“Uh… okay… you do you. I’m gonna… go to bed. Also, why are you on this floor? Go somewhere else.”

“Wow, rude. Chaewon has sweets,” Soyeon grinned, Yuqi squeaking and slamming her hand onto her mouth.

“Why did you say that?! Now she’s going to confiscate them!”

“Uh, do you know me?” Minnie snorted. “Fine. Just don’t eat too much, and get to bed!” she urged, walking towards the elevator.

Shuhua squeaked, running up after her. “Ssaem! Ssaem!”

Minnie turned back, Yuqi and Soyeon entering one of the rooms. “What?” she turned to Shuhua.

“Can I see you again tonight?!” she asked excitedly.

Minnie was about to respond, when Miyeon’s words echoed in her head. “Sorry, Shu. I should do some work. Your reports are coming out soon so I need to work on them.” Shuhua looked down. “Hey, hey, I’ll see you tomorrow. You can cuddle Soojin all you like.”

“Soojin is playing Kahoots with them!” she complained.

Minnie patted her head. “Sorry baby. But please don’t study. I want you to sleep. You can’t climb a mountain with a headache.”

Shuhua nodded sadly, following her into the lift. “Okay…”

Minnie smiled at her through the mirror. “You’re okay, right?”

They exited, Shuhua leaning in for a hug.

“Night,” she mumbled.

Minnie kissed her cheek, dismissing her to her room before entering her own.

“Oh, you came,” Miyeon mumbled, in the middle of a paragraph. “I think… Yuqi’s report is the hardest to write.”

“Hm…” Minnie sat on the bed in front of Miyeon, pulling up her laptop. “Just say she’s a good student.”

“She needs to stop talking in class, but I don’t want to personally offend her.”

“These are for her parents, not her.”

“Her parents would still lecture her nonetheless.”

Miyeon lay her head on her shoulder, running her tongue along the side of her neck. Minnie squeaked.

“Jeez, ew!”

Miyeon pressed an open-mouthed kiss, sucking on her skin. Her hands dropped from her device, moving up Minnie’s sides, before dropping and sliding under her top.

“Oh…” Minnie moaned, placing her laptop aside and pulling her top off. “You’re… mhmmm,” she was cut off as Miyeon pushed her tongue in her mouth, Minnie turning around properly. Miyeon pulled her onto her lap, Minnie rolling her hips against her as the room filled with moans.

“Yuqi and Soyeon aren’t in their room tonight,” she bit her bottom lip, undoing Miyeon’s top. “Fuck, I want to see all of you,” she begged, Miyeon placing her down to strip herself.

“We c-can’t do it in the bed… How are we supposed to sleep after?!”

“Bathroom?”

“Sleeping in the bathroom?!”

“No, dumbass, we f-fuck- mmm- ah- fuck in the bathroom,” Minnie groaned, stripping herself bare, before pulling Miyeon’s naked body onto hers.

“I wanna fuck you so bad,” Miyeon growled, pinning her down.

Minnie pushed her away, staring at her body. “You’re gorgeous,” her breath hitched, as both girls slid two fingers inside of each other with a moan. “Mi-Miyeonnie, y-your f-fingers…”

“You’re so deep,” Miyeon arched her back, raising her thumb to rub her clit.

Both women whined, fingers reaching deeper inside each other, before Miyeon pulled away, raising her legs and slotting Minnie between them. Minnie’s eyes widened as their clits bumped against each other, Miyeon moving on top of her to encourage the thrusts.

Shuhua sighed, staring at the ceiling. Surely Miss Kim would be done by now.

She had been standing outside of her room for a long time, debating on whether she was supposed to knock or just go in. Minnie had left her key card in her room, of course.

She shook her head, before deciding to raise it to the scanner, unlocking the door easily.

“M-“


She was about to speak, when a guttural moan made her freeze in her spot.

“M-Mi-Miyeonnie…” Minnie whined. “I’m g-gonna c-cum… fuck… th-the bed-“

“I don’t care,” Miyeon panted, slamming her hand inside of her. Minnie yelped, arching her back as she hit her high, feeling her whole body succumb to Miyeon’s hand as she rolled her hips against her.

Shuhua barely turned the corner before stumbling back towards the door.

Kim-ssaem and Cho-ssaem? Really?

She bit her tongue. She didn’t want to be curious, but had every urge to see them. At the same time-

“N-no, that’s gross,” she mumbled. “But…”

She felt her legs weaken, and her heart tighten. She’d have to leave now before they noticed.

“Fuck.”

She stepped a little closer, feeling herself about to faint as her eyes locked onto Minnie’s body, and Miyeon slumped on top of her.

“I told Shuhua I was writing reports,” she heard Minnie giggle, Miyeon moaning louder. “I guess I was, until you showed up.”

“I’m so close…” Miyeon gasped. “Th-this is for sleeping in her room,” she squeaked.

“Aw, you’re adorable,” Minnie giggled. “You’re so cute, baby.” Miyeon whined, Minnie kissing her forehead. “And the students think you’re scary?”

“Stop,” she pouted.

Shuhua stumbled back, pressing her back against the door.

Minnie mounted Miyeon on all fours, gently pressing her fingers inside of her, her other hand supporting her under her belly. “Just relax. You're taking my fingers so well.”

“Mhm… Ah… Good that Yuqi and Soyeon are upstairs. Th-they would have heard everything.”

“What about Shuhua and Soojin…?” Minnie wondered, spreading Miyeon’s legs slightly. “Easy, easy. That’s it, arch your back. I’m holding you, baby,” she spoke over Miyeon’s moans and gasps. “Aw, you ride so well. my fingers are so deep. You're doing so well, baby.” Minnie felt her thrust her hips against her hand, Miyeon cumming with an innocent squeal on top of her. Her legs trembled, her opening quivering around her fingers.

“Well, I guess Soojin’s with them, and Shuhua should be asleep. It wouldn’t reach them anyway… shit, Miyeon… you- you…”

Miyeon sat up, feeling the damp bed. “Ugh… I’m sorry.”

“I don’t care,” Minnie kissed her, Miyeon pulling away.

Shuhua’s eyes widened. Was she going to walk towards the door? She should leave. Why isn’t she leaving?!

“I’m gonna go and ask for some more sheets,” Miyeon pulled her clothes on. “If there’s anyone who’s running the reception downstairs.”

“Alright… are you sure? That looked strong,” Minnie stood up with her, noticing her legs still shaking as she walked around.

Shuhua quickly slipped out of the room, taking deep breaths as her eyes adjusted to the light.

“I’m fine,” she heard the door reopen, Miyeon exiting. “Shuhua?! What are you doing here?”

Shuhua jumped, turning around quickly. “O-oh… I j-just… w-was upstairs.”

Miyeon watched her sceptically. “Fine. W-wait, you didn’t hear anything, right?”

“F-from your room? No… What happened?”

“Noth- Nothing,” Miyeon dismissed. “Sorry,” she ran into the lift.

Shuhua stared at her, before running back to her room.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Shuhua’s acting weird,” Yuqi mumbled, biting into a sesame ball. “Damn, these are good!” she turned to Miyeon, who smiled and nodded. “Yah, Soyeon-ah, try this!”

“No. I don’t like sesame.”

“You don’t like anything!”

“Eat one piece of broccoli,” Minnie begged. “You’ll, like, die, if you don’t eat anything green.”

“I can have muscat juice. That’s green!”

“No it’s not,” Yuqi made a face. “Yeh Shuhua, you haven’t said anything this morning.”

“Is everything okay?” Minnie turned to her. Shuhua simply nodded, Miyeon turning slightly red.

“What are we doing today?” Soyeon asked, polishing off her soup.

“School, then Fuji… then… another mall-“

“YES!”
“YES!”

“Yah, did you plan this trip around yourself?”

“Of course,” Miyeon shrugged. Minnie watched her closely, placing her hand on her lap under the table.

“Are you okay?” she whispered. Miyeon’s eyes darted to her, nodding quickly. “Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?”

Minnie smiled. “Okay,” she nodded, kissing her cheek.

Miyeon rested her head on her shoulder, Minnie’s arm wrapping around her from behind. “Did you call Mic, then?”

“I did yesterday,” she nodded. “He’s doing good, but misses us. I’ll go back home for Christmas to see him.”

Mac came up behind them, tapping Minnie on the shoulder and handing her a small business card.

“There’s a bar near the hotel. We should go tonight.”

He walked off, Minnie nodding as she flipped the card over, not that she could read any of what was on it. “Sounds good,” she nodded.

“I could use a drink,” Miyeon sighed, placing her chopsticks down.

“Can we come?” Yuqi grinned.

Soyeon rolled her eyes. “Let them be! We’ll end up being their personal lives!”

Minnie laughed. “I’m sure Woogs just wants to join in. And no, you can’t. You need to be in bed.”

“Just one drink!” she begged, Soyeon kicking her under the table.

“No! And you can buy your own peach juice if you want a drink that badly!”

“Can you buy us alcohol from the seven eleven?”

“NO!”
“Yeah sure, what kind?”

Minnie glared at Miyeon. “Dude, it’s my first term here. I’m not asking to be fired just yet.”

“They’re adults. They’re in a hotel room. Nothing can really go wrong,” Miyeon winked.

Minnie leaned closer to her. “If this is your way of getting closer to them, you might as well be pulling yourself away, by going to jail.”

“Chillax,” she pushed her away.

“Hey, you’re pretty cool,” Yuqi frowned, fist bumping Miyeon. “Also, are we actually climbing the mountain?”

“No,” Miyeon made a face. “You think I could do that? We’re taking a cable car. You could use your camera-“

“We’re doing a vlog!” Soyeon nodded excitedly. “You can be in it!”

“No thanks, kid,” she laughed, Soyeon leaning against her.

“Hey, you’re wearing the perfume!” she exclaimed, wrapping her arms around her. “Do you like it?”

Minnie tilted her head, Miyeon raising the underside of her wrist to smell it. “It’s nice,” Minnie nodded, kissing her hand softly as she placed it down on her own lap.

“I do, Soyeon-ah. Thank you,” Miyeon patted her head, moving her other hand out of Minnie’s grasp. “We should start heading out now.” She dragged her chair back, leaning over to the other teachers.

Minnie watched Yuqi stuff multiple rice balls in her mouth, Soyeon taking pictures of her and laughing. Meanwhile, Shuhua stared back at her blankly.


“Is everything alright there, kid?” Minnie enquired, clearing the table.

Shuhua continued to stare, shaking her head. “Can I sit with you on the coach?”

“Uh… y-yeah, sure,” she turned back to Miyeon, before whipping her head to Shuhua. “It’s a short journey this time.”

“Oh…”

“Why? Is there a problem?” she handed the trays over to the helper, grabbing her bag from the floor.

“No…”

“How about you sit with me during lessons? Or Miss Cho?”

“No, I think the coach ride is okay,” she nodded.

“Alright. Go to the lobby with Soy and we’ll meet you there,” she gestured to the lift, Shuhua nodding quickly and running in that direction.

“What was she saying?” Miyeon returned.

“She wants to sit with me on the ride there. She’s acting strange.”

“Yeah, talk to her…” she mumbled. “I mean, I don’t want what happened last time to happen again.”

“Either way, you should probably have her seated closer to you or the maths department…” she suggested, walking into the empty lift.

“No, I know, I’m working on it. Yuqi needs to have a session with Mac tomorrow.”

Minnie nodded. “Hey, also, I’ve lost my hotel room key. Can I get a new one?”

“Yeah it’s cheap, don’t worry,” Miyeon hugged her.

“Hey, give me a kiss.”

Miyeon pecked her lips, squeezing her quickly before the doors reopened. “I’ll see you on the other side, kitty,” she brushed her hand against hers, parting ways as they stepped out.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Did you want to talk to me about something?” Minnie asked, Shuhua staring at the back of the coach seat in front of her.

Shuhua remained silent, before turning to look at her slowly. Her eyes showed some sort of longing, yet an ounce of pain that made Minnie feel guilty, for some reason. “No…”

“Shu… there has to be something?”

Shuhua folded her arms across her chest. “So… you and Cho-ssaem are in a relationship.”

Minnie’s mouth opened and shut, eyebrows tilting into a frown. “I- I mean, y-yeah… yeah, we are… what’s the problem?”

She shrugged, scowling at her knees. “It’s whatever.”

“No, Shuhua, come on,” she insisted. “I can’t help you if you pretend everything is fine.”

She shook her head. “There’s nothing. I just… suppose you won’t be coming to my room for the next few nights.”

Minnie sighed. “Shu, I can’t sleep beside you… You know it’s unprofessional on my pa-“

“I don’t care… But it’s fine. You have to be with her.”

Minnie looked out of the window, hearing the faint sound of her girlfriend’s voice, who was joining in on some of the banter.

“Why are you so glued to me…” Minnie sighed, turning back to her. “Shu?”

Shuhua shook her head, Minnie leaning down to kiss her cheek. “No…”

“I know you just want affection, kid, but I’m not the one you should go to-“

“You don’t get it. It’s fine. Ignore me.”

“I can’t do that. You’re my student.”

“And that’s it. That’s fine,” she shook her head once more.

“She’s hot.”

“Which? Kim or Cho?”

“Uh, both? Obviously.”


Minnie’s ears pricked up, narrowing her eyes as she listened to the conversation of the students behind her.

“But it’s different. Cho’s all elegant and princessy-“

“Kim too.”

“Yeah but, if you think about it, she’s kind of sexy.”

“Yah! Maybe I wish I took engineering now.”

“Why?”

“Well, Yuqi-unnie gets along with her so well.”

“So does everyone. She’s so nice.”

“I wonder how old she is. If she’s anywhere less than seven years older than us, she’s definitely my brother’s type.”

“Ew! Not him!”

“No I think she’s gay, actually.”

“Huh?!”

“Like, she looks at Cho how that maths pedo does. Just less hungry.”

“So… love?”

“…yeah?”

“Uh, guys, you know she’s sitting right in front of you?” A third voice joined.

“She isn’t. It’s just… I don’t know. Not her though. She’s with Cho up front.”

“Pretty sure Cho’s with Yontak…”

“Nah.”

“So, what do you think?”

“Of?”

“Like, who’s hotter? Cho or Kim?”

“Guys, seriously? I think Cho when she’s angry. But Kim… wait I don’t know…”

“Right?!”

“Guys, it’s just Shuhua in front of us, by the way,” a fourth scoffed. “She’s so weird. Why is she sitting with a teacher?”

“WHICH TEACHER?!”

“No you’re so right though. She’s super annoying too. Feel bad for Seo Soojin.”

“Literally. She has so much potential.”

“Lowkey I can’t stand her.”

“WHICH TEACHER?!”

“Shush! Wait! I’m pretty sure Soyeon ditched her too…”

“Shit, does she have any friends?”

“I don’t think so.”

“Guys she’s right there!”

“So?”

Minnie’s eyes hardened, barely darting over to Shuhua, who was listening quietly. Shuhua looked up to Minnie, who leaned forwards to pull out her headphones, placing them over her head gently.

“No, jokes aside, they’re both so pretty. If Semi’s right about them dating, I don’t know how to feel.”

“Right?! I so get you. It’s cute, but… damn… they pulled each other. Of course they did.”

She heard footsteps moving closer to her, looking up in confusion.

“Yah, Kim Minnie. Soyeon’s been stupid again.”

“Now what?” Minnie groaned, Shuhua not bothering to pull the headphones off.

“She sold all of the clothes on Vinted. She didn’t put her account on holiday mode.”

“CAN I SHIP FROM JAPAN?!” she heard her yell from the back of the coach.

Minnie groaned. “Tell her there’s nothing stopping her apart from a huge sum of money and her mother’s slipper. She’ll be spending more than she earned!”

“I don’t know about that one. She sold a vintage hoodie for ninety American dollars. I swear she bought it for like, two thousand yen.”

Minnie pulled a face. “She’s really making bank. Tell her I want some.”

“She’ll make you do something for her.”

“I’ll finish off her coursework.”

“You already did that.”

“Then I should get free commission then, shouldn’t I?” she challenged.

Yuqi rolled her eyes playfully. “You’re not sitting with Yeon?”

“With Shu,” she nodded, placing an arm over the youngest’s lap. “You go and sit down. I don’t want you having a concussion if you fall over.”

“Okay,” Yuqi giggled, leaving their side.

“Hey,” she walked back, sitting in her seat. “She wants some of your money.”

“What! Why?” Soyeon pouted.

“Did your coursework. Tax.”

“Fair enough,” she sighed.

“Shuhua’s so down hard for her,” Yuqi whispered. Soyeon narrowed her eyes. “You know they’re sitting together. She was using her headphones. Shuhua definitely has a crush on her.”

“I doubt that.”

“Dude, she like, forced her to sleep beside her.”

“Hey, we bulldozed her room too-“

“For the snacks. Not for an intimate night about… whatever they talked about. And Shuhua’s a night talker.”

Soyeon smirked. “She is.”

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“What?!”

“I’m sorry! That was awkward! Very awkward!”

Miyeon groaned. “You should have said something!”

“What?! Don’t call your teachers beautiful and hot?” she made a face.

They stared at each other through the mirror of the bathroom, Miyeon placing her dried hands on Minnie’s waist gently. “Kiss me,” she asked, gingerly pulling her closer to her, as Minnie’s lips met hers.

“I’m happy it’s you and me,” Minnie mumbled into the kiss, pulling away and walking towards the door. Miyeon grabbed her quickly.

“No, wait! Let me hold you for a little longer…” she begged. Minnie chuckled, feeling Miyeon’s head rest against her chest in a hug.

“Big baby. Come on, let’s go,” she kissed the top of her head, taking her hand and leading her out of the bathroom.

They entered the classroom, Shuhua sitting beside where Minnie was supposed to be.

“I want to go over a few topics,” she looked up desperately. Minnie nodded quickly, sitting beside her.

“Your content knowledge is fine. I think you just lose marks because you get ahead of yourself when you answer the questions.” She leaned forwards, Shuhua’s eyes darting up to meet her lips as she continued explaining the content on her laptop.

“You’re coming to mine tonight, right?”

Minnie looked up. “Shu, stop blanking out. I’m trying to explain-“

“Yes or no?”

Minnie paused. “Yes. I’ll see you. Please focus.”

“Okay…”

“I’m gonna have ramen at the mall.”

“Dude, we have a mountain to go to. It’s not all about the mall!” Soyeon complained, kicking Yuqi’s leg.

“Right, you two,” Mac sat in between them. “Yuqi, I need you to do more redox equations. Soyeon…” He sighed. “We have a few issues.”

“What now?!” she groaned.

“You can’t give carbon six bonds at your big age,” he shook his head, pushing a booklet in front of her. “Do this. Every question.”

“Ugh! Fine.”

Miyeon sat beside Soojin, watching her complete a physics sum.

“Is Kim-ssaem sleeping well?” Soojin asked quietly. “She’s so tired nowadays…”

Miyeon looked to her direction, the younger perky woman helping Shuhua enthusiastically. “She seems fine to me…”

“You’d think. Things change quickly. Just check up on her every now and again…”

Miyeon nodded. “You’re very astute,” she watched her write her answers down on the page, ticking them immediately.

Soojin smiled. “I mean, she’s new here. She needs all the support you can give her. I’m sure she’s already working overtime to improve her Korean, too.”

“Of course… I almost forgot she’s foreign,” Miyeon sighed.

Soojin sat back with a smile. “I hope you’re resting too, ssaem. I guess it’s difficult enough to be dealing with so many of us.”

“It’s why I have a recruitment,” she nodded. “And you’re not as bad as you think.”

“But aren’t you stressed about the work your other classes need to catch up on?”

She shook her head. “You’re out here, so the other teachers have taken over. Don’t worry. We made it work.”

Soojin nodded slowly. “How’s Shuhua with you? Are things better?”

“I don’t know. I guess so. She’s much tighter with Minnie, though. I- I mean, Kim-ssaem.”

“It’s natural. Their class is so small that they managed to get to know her really well. And it helps that she’s young.”

“Hey! I’m young too…”

“Playful,” Soojin corrected. Miyeon yawned. “You didn’t sleep last night?”

“No… I did. Just not enough. I had to go to the reception in the middle of the night to get new sheets, and when I came back Minnie was working, and then we had an argument about her working too much, and then we had to leave so they could clean the room, and it was just… a lot.”

“What happened to the bed?” Soojin made a face.

Miyeon stumbled. “I spilled my drink,” she lied. “It was fine until it became sticky.”

“You could have shared a bed! You’re close enough.”

“Yeah… there’s only one bed… A big one, but… I spilled it in the middle.”

“Stay on either- oh. You didn’t want to. I see,” she smirked.

Miyeon rolled her eyes. “Shuhua was in the corridor when I left my room, too. Why was she up so late?”

“I don’t know. I was doing Soyeon’s French history Kahoot, so I didn’t go back to my room until the morning.”

“You didn’t sleep?!”

“No, we did but we all stayed in their room… Are you going to tell me off?”

Miyeon chuckled. “No. It’s fine…” she mumbled, Soojin finishing the booklet.

“I’ll be playing games now. Join.”

“I should look at the other students.”

“I think they’re all doing fine,” she shrugged. “You could help Shu, though. But she’s with Kim-ssaem.”

“I wonder why. She’s good at Engineering…”

They glanced over, Minnie leaning over Shuhua’s notes, Shuhua’s eyes running up and down her quickly.

“Well… she looks like she’s having fun.”

“She’s not even looking at where she’s pointing,” Miyeon sighed. “She gets distracted too easily…”

“Hey, you can’t talk,” Soojin whispered, giving her a gentle nudge.

“What does that mean?!” Miyeon squeaked, Soojin giving her a knowing look.

“It’s Kim-ssaem, isn’t it,” she teased, Yuqi and Soyeon walking up to them.

“Cho-ssaem, what’s a polyroot?” Yuqi shoved her calculator in front of her.

“Yuqi-yah, that’s maths-“

“But what is it?!”

“It’s… how you find the roots of a polynomial…” she pressed the button.

“Oh…” Yuqi smiled and nodded. “Wait, but… what’s a polynomial…?”

“YUQI AT YOUR BIG AGE-“

“Woah, calm down, Sso,” Miyeon laughed, patting the chair beside her. Yuqi yawned, leaning against her for a hug. Soyeon went behind them, joining Soojin and her game. “How was Mac’s help?”

“Apparently I just can’t do chemistry,” Yuqi sighed. “Or maths. Or anything.”

Miyeon looked up, noticing Minnie about to stand up and walk over to them, before Shuhua told her something, making her sit back down slowly.

“Is Shuhua weak at engineering?” Miyeon turned to her.

“Better than me,” she shrugged.

“Yuqi, you’re intelligent. Stop calling others smarter than you.”

“I don’t know,” she sighed. “I’ve lost faith in myself recently…”

“Don’t. You’re good.” Yuqi shivered. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s cold but my hoodie has food stains,” she complained.

Miyeon pulled her jumper off, wrapping it around her arms. “Better?”

“You didn’t have to do that!” Yuqi whined, pulling it over her head anyway. “It’s only warm because you were wearing it,” she snuggled up against the warm fabric. “Now you’ll be cold…”

“I’m fine, Woogs,” she patted her back, glancing over at Soojin’s screen. “That’s a terrible game,” she sighed, watching Soojin sprint away from a bald man with a stick, in some kind of ugly green jumper. “What is that? Why are you solving maths equations?”

“You have to run away from Baldi,” Yuqi explained.

“Baldi… is that him? Why isn’t she being chased then?”

“The game just started,” Soyeon grinned.

Miyeon noticed Yuqi leaning over her to watch them, standing up and gesturing for her to take her seat. Yuqi tilted her head in confusion as Miyeon walked away, up to Minnie.

“Is everything okay?” she asked, kneeling over the desk from in front.

Minnie gave her a look of defeat, before turning back to Shuhua.

“I don’t understand!” she complained.

“Shu! You just did six questions correctly!” Minnie pointed out. “What don’t you get?!”

Miyeon leaned over. “Explain why the screen printing process is suitable for a low volume production run…” she read aloud, eyes running over her revision notes. “The answer is right there.”

“It’s the exam technique!”

“There’s no technique! Just write the answer!” Miyeon frowned.

“Okay, I’ll give you a few minutes by yourself to do a few questions, and then I’ll come and mark them, okay?” Minnie compromised.

“No! No, Kim-ssaem! Stay and help me!” Shuhua whined as Minnie stood up.

“You’ll be fine, Shu,” she patted her shoulder. “And Miyeon and I need to have a word. Just do a few questions.”

“Fine,” she rolled her eyes, Miyeon giving Minnie a look.

They stepped outside of the room, Minnie yawning dramatically as she sat on the floor beside the door.

“I told you to sleep.”

“Whatever,” she groaned. “Why’s Shuhua so bent on being bad at things. Like, she’s good!”

“Well, Soojin caught her checking you out a few minutes ago.”

“No,” she shook her head slowly. “That’s not right…”

Miyeon dropped beside her. “I need a drink.”

“Not now! We have to go up a mountain!”

“I’ll buy something at the service station.”

Minnie nudged her. “Why would there be alcohol at a service station?! It’s illegal to drink and drive!”

“What if I needed a gift for someone?!”

“I don’t know! Chocolate?”

Miyeon sighed. “Whatever,” she mumbled. “And you need to sleep, okay? You can sleep against my-“

“Shuhua wants to sit with me.”

“Seriously?!” Miyeon whined. “You’re now actually putting her before me! She can go with Soojin!”

“I know, but she’s been struggling, and we’ll be together for everything else.”

“Minnie! The drive is three hours!”

Minnie paled. “Oh… we can swap after the service station…”

“No, no don’t hurt her feelings… I guess we have tonight.”

“I can’t wait!” Minnie squealed, pecking her lips. “Ugh, you’re so pretty today. I’ll need to be careful in case I start sucking your lips off in front of everyone.”

“Hey, I wouldn’t mind that,” she winked.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“So you’re going out tonight?” Shuhua mumbled dejectedly, resting her head on Minnie’s shoulder as the metro came to a stop. “You’ll come to mine?”

“I’ll see, kid. But you have Soojin with you. Spend time with her…”

“I know, I know… I just like being around you. You’re calm and nice to talk to, and you understand me…”

Minnie patted her leg. “Well, we did have a good conversation on the coach this afternoon.” She glanced at her watch. “We’ll be back to the hotel by nine, and then you should all be getting ready for bed,” she turned to the other students, who nodded.

“Ssaem, your hair is really nice today,” a student with a familiar voice spoke up. She must have been one of the pupils she’d heard on the coach that morning.

“Oh, thank you! My brother did it, not me,” she smiled, pulling out her phone.

“Brother? He’s here in Japan? You’re Japanese?”

“No! She’s Thai!” another corrected.

Minnie giggled. “No, no, Yontak-ssaem,” she started texting. “He’s my older brother.”

“Woah… actually?! I didn’t see that coming.”

“Wait, why are you ‘Kim-ssaem’ if you’re Thai?” another asked, Minnie narrowing her eyes as she read her emails over and over. “Miss? Miss?”

“Shut up and let her breathe,” Shuhua snapped.

Minnie’s head shot up from her phone.

“Hey, Shuhua, calm down. I was just reading an email. It was just something to simplify my name really.”

“Couldn’t you have gone with ‘Yontak’? Isn’t that your real surname?” the student asked, the other giving Shuhua a look.

“It isn’t,” she tucked her phone in her pocket, standing up as the train neared their stop. “Okay everyone, this is us!” she called, Mac walking up to her in the centre of the carriage, Soyeon in hand.

“She’s so weird,” she heard a student mumble about Shuhua, another laughing.

“Hey, what are you doing with Soyeon?” Minnie asked, Mac lifting her up under her arms.

“It’s too late to have another mishap,” he explained, carrying her off the train and dropping her on the floor. “Form a line so I can count you all! Jeez, it’s like herding sheep,” he shook his head.

A loud whistle came from behind him, everyone falling silent and walking into their groups. Minnie and Mac turned around, Miyeon counting everyone quickly.

“Everyone’s here. Let’s go!” she called.

Yuqi ran up to her. “Hey, so… drinks from the seven eleven?” she grinned.

“When everyone’s in bed, you and I will sneak out,” she nodded. Yuqi threw her arms around her.

“I love you!”

“You can’t share with anyone, okay? I’m buying you one bottle, and I want to see it at least half full tomorrow morning.”

“But that’s nothing!” she pouted.

“You know you could probably buy some yourself, right?” she sighed.

“I’m underage!”

“They don’t check IDs here.”

The walk back to the hotel was quick and convenient, everyone running inside as it started to rain.

“Jin-ssaem will do a room check. Please have someone awake at ten o’clock to answer the door!”

“Okay!”

“Goodnight everyone!”

 A few students hugged her quickly as they walked in. “Thank you for the day!” they called, dashing up the stairs.

“No worries, everyone. I will text you when you should be up! Soyeon-ah, come here.”

Minnie and Mac were the last to come in, Soyeon trailing behind them.


“You’re going drinking then,” she pouted.

“Go to your room, and get changed and take a shower. I’m taking Yuqi out to buy some things for you both. I want you asleep by midnight. If I hear you making too much noise, I’m splitting you up for the night.”

Soyeon nodded, Minnie hugging her quickly as she ran to the lift. “So, we’ll wait for you to come back and then we can go,” Mac sat down on the sofa, Minnie handing Yuqi an umbrella.

“Share it. There’s only one.”

They nodded, Yuqi opening it outside and pulling Miyeon under it. “We won’t be long!” Miyeon called back, placing her arms around Yuqi’s waist to keep themselves together.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“Woah… there’s so many,” Yuqi stared at the wall of bottles, Miyeon picking a few cosmetics. “Twinkle Pop! I like their highlighter,” she watched her place them in the basket.

“You want?”

“I have enough. So… drinks!”

“Get some snacks. Matcha cookie,” she placed three in the basket.

Yuqi threw in some Pocky sticks, and then some cream buns. “I could live in here. Do they have sushi?”

“They ran out,” she pointed at the sign. “You just ate dinner!”

“So?” she pouted. “Okay! Drink time!”

Miyeon sighed, opening the fridge and pulling out a can and a bottle. “Look at this. It’s sweeter than average.”

“I want the hardcore stuff!”

“No you don’t,” Miyeon warned.

Yuqi read the label. “White peach sounds nice… why not a regular... peach...?”

“Or you can get this soju.”

“No! Not soju! Oh, red wine.”

“I’m not buying you a bottle of wine,” Miyeon snapped, pointing at the beer bottle. “You like beer?”

“I’m not a man in a midlife crisis,” she spat.

“Okay, get this flavoured alcohol,” she handed another bottle to her, taking the can and beer away. “It’s slightly strong, so eat it with some crisps and control yourself.”

“Ugh… right. I get horny when I’m drunk. Gotta warn Soyeon to watch out.”

“TMI!” Miyeon snapped, placing the basket at the cashier. “Do you want to do the talking?”

“I have to talk?”

“Just say you’re buying with cash.”

“I’M BUYING?!”

“Alcohol isn’t cheap you know!”

Yuqi pouted, Miyeon shoving the bill in the machine. “I love you,” she pecked her cheek as Miyeon took the change out. “You can keep the change.”

“I think I will,” she side eyed her, grabbing the bag and thanking the cashier. “Right, come on now,” she took her hand, Yuqi opening the umbrella as they stepped outside.

Yuqi grabbed her wrist, picking up the pace. “Come on!”

“Yah! I’m not running!”

“Yes you are! Come on!” Yuqi laughed, pulling her into the hotel. Miyeon groaned, handing the bag to her.

Minnie stood up from the sofa, walking over to them and kissing Miyeon’s forehead. “But your makeup is in here,” Yuqi looked down.

“Give it to me later,” she dismissed, Yuqi hugging her quickly before running to the stairwell.

“Right. Drink time,” Minnie smirked.

୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧

“I think Shuhua is interested in you,” Miyeon began. Minnie rolled her eyes.

“She’s a teenager, Miyeon. I’m not entertaining that idea.”

“Yeah, but it doesn’t change that she does,” she shrugged.

“It’s just teenager stuff. She’ll be over it soon,” Mac dismissed, finishing the last of his beer.

“I forgot to mention,” Miyeon placed her glass down, “last night when I went to get the sheets, I found her in the corridor just outside our room.”

Minnie’s eyes widened. “WHAT?”

“I know, I know. I asked her if she heard anything and she insisted that she didn’t, but she’s been acting clingy towards you this whole day.”

“Why? What happened last night?” Mac frowned, before it dawned on him. “You’re unbelievable.”

“Yah,” Minnie scowled. “Dude, why didn’t you tell me?!”

“I didn’t think it was a big deal! But she was staring at us strangely.”

“She even asked me if we’re together. On the coach earlier. She was upset about it… Fuck, do you think she heard us?”

“How?! We weren’t loud at all!”

“Uh, I wasn’t loud,” Minnie scoffed. Miyeon shoved her.

“It’s not like she could have entered your room, so maybe she caught onto it from somewhere else.”

Minnie paled. “Hey Mi, remember how I lost my key-“

“Oh my god.”

“You think she has it? I mean, you probably did leave it in there…”

“Fuck…”

“You were in her room?” Mac groaned. “Your boundaries are questionable.”

“What if she actually walked in on us?”

“The chances of that happening are low.”

“Low? Really? After she begged me to stay with her?” Minnie placed her face in her hands. “She definitely has it.”

“Oh my god…” Miyeon groaned. “How do we know, though? We can’t prove it!”

“And Nicha was dumb enough to leave it with her in the first place,” Mac rolled her eyes.

She kicked him. “She wouldn’t do that, would she? She’d knock first…”

“You'd hope. Soyeon and Yuqi don’t even try.”

“True. We have to give them a heads up,” she groaned. “And she wants me to see her again tonight. I told her to not bank on it in case I’m too drunk.”

“So… would you go?”

Minnie shrugged. “I want to sleep with you for once,” she whined. “I don’t like you being on your own.”

“Yuqi sometimes joins. It’s fine.”

“No, it isn’t… But of course I need to be there for Shuhua. And the other students definitely don’t like her.”

“You think?”

“I heard them talking about her. I don’t know if I should tell them off. Everyone talks about everyone. That’s normal.”

“I wish she spent time with Soyeon and Yuqi. This wouldn’t have happened otherwise.”

“What did you hear them say?” Mac asked.

“No one likes her, she has no friends, she’s weird, et cetera.”

He nodded slowly. “It’s so hard to be different nowadays,” he mumbled. “Shuhua’s not a bad person at all, either.”

“I think she’s misunderstood by everyone. She wants to please people but she isn’t able to in the way that she wants.”

“It’s not my job to be her friend though,” Minnie yawned, watching Miyeon order a few more drinks. “Hey, you should check on Yuqi and Soyeon when we head back.”

“Of course,” she nodded. “It’s confusing. Don’t go to hers. She’ll probably trauma dump on you.”

“That’s what I want, though. I want her to talk to me. She’s already mentioned her parents disliking her and her sisters, and being extremely strict on her. Other than that, I don’t know what else is left to hear.”

“Do you want to hear more?”

“What if she’s in trouble?!”

“She’ll tell you. She’s already shit talked about me.”

“Hey it wasn’t like that. You make her nervous.”

“Why?! She made up some bullshit that I favour Yuqi over her?! No! She just sits right in front of me and asks about my personal life!”

“And you enjoy that?”

“No, but it gives us more to connect over,” she shrugged.

Minnie yawned. “What are we doing tomorrow?”

“Just school. I need to recover from the altitude.”

“How is that recovering? You need to teach?” Mac frowned.

“It’s fine, it’s fine. They’ve finished the syllabus. I’m just working on them remembering everything.

“Soyeon’s been doing all kinds of chemistry she shouldn’t be. Yuqi’s reverted to last academic year.”

“I don’t blame them. Chemistry sucks,” Minnie shrugged.

“You only say that because it was your worst one.”

“And it was my worst one because my brother was a terrible tutor and made me want to kill myself every time I returned home to see him.”

“You should have stayed at that boarding school,” she scowled.

“Are you teaching, then?” Miyeon turned to Minnie, who shook her head.

“Shuhua will do more physics with you and I think Yuqi and Soyeon need to do some more Chemistry, which leaves me free!”

“Can you do physics with me?”

“I’d rather die.”

“No! Come on!”

“What does Semi do?” Mac frowned. Minnie shrugged.

“I have no clue, but she isn’t in our lessons. Why?”

“In case she sees you together and starts spreading rumours.”

“Ugh, so what?” Miyeon rolled her eyes.

“Hey, you’re the one who’s scared of her.”

“Am not!”

Minnie turned back to Mac. “Trust me, she is. She’s just too drunk right now.”

Miyeon reached over and stuffed two Kitkats in her mouth, before chugging half a pint. “I’m not drunk.”

“Will you be fine sleeping alone tonight?” Mac asked. Miyeon pouted, shaking her head.

“I’ll go to Shuhua’s. You deal with her.”