Chapter 1: Prologue
Chapter Text
The freshmen were out to play, so it would seem.
Hyera sat from her leather- covered seat across from the bar, sipping her drink. She ordered some fruity mix that the bartender came up with. It was decent. It was lemony and sweet- was it strawberry? She wasn’t sure. All Hyera knew was that she couldn’t taste the alcohol, so she’d surely be drunk tonight.
The music thrummed through the club, loud and like a heartbeat. Ever present, daunting and the throng of students on the floor moved like they were compelled to. Hyera watched as she saw fresh- faced first years sip their drinks, cautiously at first, then with reckless abandon as the night went on. Some were dancing, some were in corner booths like herself, some were kissing their partners, their hands exploring.
Midterms had just concluded and finding someone to spend the night with was the best way to relieve stress. Hyera watched as she sipped her drink. She could use a distraction herself, but the pickings were slim. Pretty girls were common enough. Hyera wasn’t drunk enough to find the prettiest and hoped for the best. She didn’t want to settle
She was in a particular mood.
Hyera was restless. Inconsequential hookups were fun, they passed the time. She craved something a little more. A bit more than just sex and empty words. She needed something more. She hadn’t quite put her finger on it yet, but she would know.
At the bar, she spotted a black haired beauty. Hyera could only see her back- she wore tight, hip hugging jeans and a cropped shirt, revealing her slender, pale arms. She was drinking a beer in a glass bottle, nursing it slowly. Intrigued, Hyera took her own drink with her and sidled up to the empty seat next to the girl.
She was as beautiful as she hoped she would be. Icy blue eyes and pale pink lips. She glanced at Hyera for a second, then resumed her drinking.
“One more of these,” Hyera said to the bartender when he saw her, lifting her own glass. “And her next drink is on me.”
The bartender nodded and got to work on making Hyera’s drink.
“Thanks,” was all the mystery girl said. Her voice was quiet, deep.
“Mm? Is that all you have to say when a beautiful young lady buys you a drink?” Hyera asked, turning on her stool to face the girl completely. Hyera wore a tight, curve hugging dress that would stop anyone in their tracks. She always made sure she was the most alluring girl in the room.
The girl smirked. “What’s your name?”
Hyera smirked. “Oh Hyera. And yours?”
“Kang Yuna.” She replied, sipping her beer.
“Are you a freshman, too?” Hyera vaguely nodded towards the crowd of people on the dance floor, moving their bodies to the beat that made it hard to talk without leaning in to hear better.
“I am.” Kang Yuna replied. “So we’ll speak casually, then?”
“If you prefer.” Hyera received her drink from the bartender and gave it a sip.
“Might as well.”
Hyera watched Kang Yuna. She drank her beer so slowly, she was beginning to think that she didn’t come to the bar to drink.
“Heartbroken?” Hyera asked, leaning in some more.
Kang Yuna raised an eyebrow. “What makes you think that?”
“I have my ways,” Hyera smiled a coy smile. Kang Yuna was pretty enough. Mysterious enough. She would do.
“It’s complicated.” Kang Yuna said after a pause.
“Tell me about it.” Hyera said at once. “I’m all ears, but this is an awful place to talk.”
“It is.” Yuna didn’t make a move to get up. Instead, she sipped her beer again.
Hyera pursed her lips, glancing out into the crowd. She could spot at least three girls too sloppy to go home on their own. They’d be too easy to sweep up and kiss, to give them a night they’d never forget. However, Kang Yuna seemed less interested than Hyera had hoped she’d be.
“We all have our reasons, don’t we?” Hyera began, watching Yuna carefully. “To be in a lonely place like this?”
Yuna glanced at her. “Are you philosophising?”
Hyera scoffed. “I’m just saying, we have our reasons.”
“And you want me to tell you my whole life story?” Yuna asked, putting down her near empty beer bottle.
“You could, but I’m sure there are much better things we could be doing tonight.” Hyera replied. She slid her hand onto Yuna’s lap, inching towards the inseam of her jeans and squeezing. Yuna didn’t move.
“I know I do, but I’m here.” Yuna shook her head and moved her thigh away. Hyera pulled her hand away. “I’m here and talking to you, after all.”
Hyera pursed her lips. Was Kang Yuna not interested? It was a deep strike, right into her ego.
“I’d like to think I keep good company.” Hyera tossed back her hair, sipping the rest of her drink. She wasn’t drunk enough yet. She’d have to order a few more of these drinks.
Yuna finally emptied her beer and the bartender replaced it nearly instantly. Yuna popped off the cap and took a sip.
“If you don’t want to talk, we don’t have to.” Hyera added. “We could just get out of here.”
Yuna watched her. Hyera smiled, glad that she was direct. It didn’t always work.
“I suppose we could.” Yuna scoffed, taking a longer drink of her beer.
Hyera signalled to the bartender and paid the tab with her credit card. Hyera watched as Yuna finished off her beer quickly, then stood up.
“I don’t live far,” Yuna said as they made their way from the bar and across the club, where the bass of the song began to fade.
“Neither do I.” Hyera replied. “I live alone, too.”
“So do I,” Yuna added.
When they reached the street, Hyera pulled out her phone to call a cab. Yuna stood there and pulled out a carton of cigarettes and a lighter.
“Do you smoke?” Yuna asked, offering the carton.
Hyera shook her head as she ordered the cab. The girls Hyera normally brought home were dainty little things, who hardly drank, let alone kiss girls. They were never the smoking types.
Once the cab was ordered, Hyera approached Yuna. In the dim street lights of late night Seoul, Kang Yuna was prettier than Hyera initially thought. There was a sad look in her eyes, a tiredness that told Hyera that Yuna was long suffering. Yet, who wasn’t these days? Some just hid it better than others. Hyera took Yuna’s free hand and guided it around the narrow of her waist, to pull her in.
“It’ll be some time before the cab arrives,” Hyera began.
Yuna smiled and once she blew out the smoke she had inhaled, she leaned in. Hyera met Yuna’s lips. She tasted like cigarettes and beer, but her lips were soft, her arm around her waist held her in place. Yuna was taller than her, leaning down to push her tongue into Hyera’s mouth. Hyera let out a small moan, her own hand landing on Yuna’s bare mid drift.
Perhaps it was the alcohol finally settling in, but Hyera felt that fleeting feeling- that ache in her core that told her that she had picked right. Yuna was holding her tighter, pulling her closer. Hyera spotted the abandoned, half smoked cigarette on the pavement next to them as Yuna held her in her arms. Hyera smirked into their kiss, reaching up to cup Yuna’s breast in her hand.
When Yuna moaned, Hyera wanted her right there and then. She was half tempted to pull Yuna into an alley and undress her there, but as she began to pull her, a phone began to ring.
Yuna pulled away at once. She took her phone from her pocket and held it to her ear. “Minji, what is it?”
Hyera frowned. Who was this other girl? She crossed her arms impatiently.
“I’ll be right there.” Yuna said. She tapped on the screen and tucked it back into her jean’s pocket. “I have to go.”
Hyera scoffed. “Really? You’re leaving?”
“My friend needs me. She went on some date and-!” Yuna began. She glanced down the street and Hyera spun around to see that the cab was approaching them.
“She’s an adult. She can take care of herself.” Hyera said, waving her hand away. “We have plans, Kang Yuna, do we not?”
Yuna shook her head. “I can’t leave her on her own. I have to go see her.”
Hyera couldn’t believe it. Where was once arousal and the fleeting sense of satisfaction, was now soured by anger.
“Whatever.” Hyera sighed, pouting slightly.
Yuna lingered as the cab pulled up to the curve. “I’m sorry but my friend is precious to me. I can’t abandon her.”
“Sure she is.” Hyera replied, pulling out her phone. She feigned disinterest, but her blood was boiling.
“Thank you for understanding.” Yuna said with a dip of her head, then she climbed into the cab.
Once the cab had driven off, Hyera stood there, fists clenched.
Who was Kang Yuna to reject her? How dare she?
Hyera spotted the cigarette Yuna had abandoned and with the toe of her high heel, she stepped on it, making sure it was nothing but the tobacco, and the destroyed filter, its innards spilling free. She rubbed it into the pavement but it did nothing to soothe her rage.
No one rejected Oh Hyera.
Chapter 2: Chapter One: Missing Piece
Chapter Text
“What do you think of these?”
Yuna glanced down at Minji’s phone. For the past month or so, at least once a week, Minji would either send links or directly show her photos of rings. Couple’s rings, engagement rings, even matching necklaces. This time, it was a pair of sterling silver rings. They were quite nondescript and plain, but Yuna found herself nodding at them.
“Do you like them?” Minji asked, smiling widely.
Yuna shrugged quickly, glancing away. There was a nagging feeling inside of her, snagging below the surface once more.
“Why are you showing me this?” Yuna asked. She was supposed to be working from home, as she was getting over a cold. Minji skipped work as well to nurse Yuna back to health.
“I think they’re pretty, don’t you agree?” Minji asked, hands on her hips.
Yuna didn’t reply. She had been trying to read a report for the past hour and she had no energy to focus on it. Usually, a distraction from Minji was welcomed, but Yuna wasn’t an idiot.
Yuna was a lot of things but stupid wasn’t one of them. However, in this case, she had to be to avoid what was going on.
“Minji, could you go grab some porridge?” Yuna asked, rubbing her eyes. She wasn’t going to get any work done, she knew that much. “I think I need to rest.”
Minji stood there and sighed as Yuna closed the laptop. “Fine. What kind of porridge should I get?”
“Chicken stock, if they have it. If not, shrimp.” Yuna gave Minji a small smile and she smiled, too. “And one of those herbal drinks?”
Minji nodded, wrapping her arms around Yuna’s shoulders and holding her tight. “Leave it to me! Do you need any medicine?”
“I think we still have some from the last time you were sick,” Yuna replied. Her head was beginning to throb now. She really needed a nap.
“I’ll be back!” Minji kissed the top of Yuna’s head. “You go lay down, okay? I won’t be long!”
“It will be if you talk to every auntie you see,” Yuna muttered, sighing.
Minji feigned anger, pursing her pink lips. “I can’t be rude!”
Yuna laughed. “I know. Go on, get the porridge.”
Once Minji was out of the apartment, Yuna headed to the bedroom. Yuna should have known she was too sick to work when she saw what a disarray the bed was. Yuna slipped off her yoga pants and delved under the covers. Her phone was still on the bedside table. Without a second thought, Yuna grabbed it and tapped on the WeiYoppu app.
It was futile, but she did it anyway.
Yuna tapped on the WeiYu News and Lifestyles sections, carefully pouring over every article title and author. There were the usual names that Yuna had seen over and over again, but she didn’t spot the one she wanted to see most.
Her heart sank.
Yuna laid there, closing her eyes as she rolled onto her back. It was the fever, making everything worse, she was sure. Ever since that day, nearly three months ago, Yuna hadn’t seen Cho Minjae at the WeiYoppu building.
At first, Yuna didn’t think anything of it. After all, it would be awkward to seek out and befriend the woman that was also your ex and still had feelings for you. Yuna understood. It hurt, but she got it, but she didn’t spot Cho Minjae anywhere. Yuna ran into the writers and editors of various sections all the time in the cafe, in the cafeteria, in the restaurants around the building. But not Cho Minjae.
Yet what was even stranger was that, apparently, Cho Minjae hadn’t published anything since accepting the job.
Yuna wondered if Minjae was working on a big project. Or perhaps she had to finish out a contract elsewhere before publishing with WeiYoppu? Even a few searches of Cho Minjae’s name brought nothing.
No articles from other websites save the digital archiving of her articles from university, some subtitling credits from over the years, but no social media.
It was as if Minjae stopped existing a few months ago.
Yuna couldn’t help but feel worried. She swallowed hard, wondering if it was her fault. Had she come on too strong? Should she have waited?
No, Yuna should have stopped herself. She shouldn’t have invited Minjae into her office. She shouldn’t have kissed her or hiked up her skirt. She shouldn’t have so pathetically offered everything she had to her.
She offered Minjae her heart once more and she ripped it into two all over again.
Yet, Yuna couldn’t forget her. How could she when her heart raced at the thought of her? How could she when she missed her every day? How could she when her mind replayed their times together constantly?
And how could she continue to obsess so pathetically over Cho Minjae when she once was so desperately in love with Kim Minji?
She still loved Minji. Their bond was special. Irreplaceable. Yet, shame burned a fiery hole inside of her gut. How could Yuna give up Minji so easily? Why did she offer to throw away her comfortable life with Minji, their dogs and the home they had made together? Minji would be devastated if she knew. Heartbroken and betrayed. Yuna couldn’t do that to her, yet she had tried.
And that was why she couldn’t marry her.
*
When Minji returned with the soup, Yuna had finally fallen asleep after the flurry of what ifs and ruminating regrets settled down. She had heard the dogs, barking and whining to be let out. Slowly, Yuna pulled herself out of bed. She had forgotten about the dogs and in some automatic haze, she wandered into the kitchen.
When Yuna glanced outside, in the backyard, Minji was tossing balls into the distance of their tiny backyard, letting them fall near the fence. Siwoo was the fastest of the two mixed breed dogs, being slightly smaller than Woong. They were tanned, nearly yellow coloured, with sharp jaws and pointed ears. Minji had fallen in love with them so easily, and since they were a bonded pair that grew up together, Yuna couldn’t say no.
On the counter sat the plastic bag. There was a takeaway container that was hot to the touch, filled with porridge. There were two cans of herbal drink and a few packs of ramyun. Yuna popped open one of the cans, then went to the bathroom. She took two acetaminophen and then sat at the kitchen table. Minji returned to the kitchen as well not too long after.
“I should have taken Siwoo and Woong with me! They’re filled with energy!” Minji said at once, sitting across from Yuna.
“I forgot to take them out this morning.” Yuna replied.
“They’ll live,” Minji said with a smile. “I got shrimp porridge. It was all the auntie had.”
“Thanks, Minji,” Yuna grabbed the plastic spoon that came with the porridge and opened the lid. Steam spiralled into the air. It must have been freshly made.
“Go nap after you eat,” Minji warned her. “I’ll take the dogs on a walk, okay? I’ll get them tired so they won’t bother you.”
“You sure?” Yuna asked, scooping up a spoonful of the porridge and blowing on it.
“I’m sure. You need to rest. It’s not like you to fall so ill!” Minji said in a scolding tone. “We've been out of school for ages! You're not stressed, are you?”
Yuna shook her head. She wasn’t sure what brought on her cold but she couldn’t rule out stress. It was early summer, after all- not exactly cold and flu season anymore.
Once Yuna had her fill, Minji rounded up the dogs and headed out to the dog park a few blocks away, armed with water bottles and a bucket of tennis balls. Yuna, on the other hand, headed back to bed.
The porridge did nothing to change her thoughts, to distract her from Cho Minjae. It unsettled her. Where was Cho Minjae, if she wasn’t at WeiYoppu? Wasn’t it her dream job? Or at least, the most desirable one for her career?
It didn’t make any sense. Yuna settled under the sheets and promised herself that the moment she felt better, she’d investigate the issue herself.
Chapter Text
“I heard you, Minjae.”
Hyera Unnie stood over Minjae, arms crossed and brow furrowed. Minjae glanced up, her entire body on fire, hot with need and aching for a release. Her knees were sore from sitting on them for hours, her breasts heavy and sensitive from the clamps. A hot, desperate throbbing was radiating from her clit, trapped by the third clamp. The insides of her thighs were slick with her wetness, from the vibrator that was still inside of her, humming on a low setting. With tears in her eyes, Minjae quickly looked away from her Unnie.
“I heard you panting when my parents and I checked this room,” Hyera Unnie planted her foot against Minjae’s thigh, forcing her to sit on the vibrator. She let out a gasp. “My parents didn’t, but I know your voice. I know you couldn’t keep your voice in.”
“Ha- I’m sorry, Unnie-!” Minjae began. She was hot all over and wanted to desperately be freed. Hyera had handcuffed her hands behind her back and told her to sit in the closet for what felt like an eternity while she ate an expensive meal with her parents. Shame filled her- not just because she was naked, aroused and bound in a closet of the guest bedroom, but because she was not deemed worthy enough to join her Unnie and be introduced to Hyera’s parents.
“What were you going to do if my parents heard you?” Hyera asked, leaning down and cupping Minjae’s jaw. “What if my father investigated? What would you do if he opened this door and saw you? Hmm? What would you tell him?”
Minjae gulped, more tears threatening to spill. It was supposed to be a game. A fun little game. Minjae couldn’t help herself. She never could when it came to Hyera Unnie. She had wound her up and let her go, alone in the dark closet for hours. The constant stimulation of her nipples and clit, plus the off and on again vibrations of phallus inside of her lead to Minjae panting a little louder than she had expected.
“So sex crazed, so horny and desperate, did you hope my father would fuck you, too?” Hyere accused with a wicked smirk. She reached down, while still holding Minjae’s chin, and yanked on the chains of the clamps.
Minjae cried out as Hyera kept the chain taut in her delicate hand. New tears spilled down her cheeks, her back arching, trying to relieve the pain.
“You’re so fuckable, Minjae, he probably would.” Hyera leaned in and Minjae shuddered. “But you’re mine, Minjae. Only I can fuck you.”
“Unnie, please, let me go.” Minjae muttered, her heart pounding. Hyera hadn’t been this cruel to her in ages. Her teasings had been more sinister lately. “I’m sorry, I’ll be more quiet-!”
“Not yet.” Hyera reached lower, down between Minjae’s thighs. Minjae could only gasp as Hyera pulled out the vibrator from inside her, glistening with her arousal. “Look at how dirty this is, Minjae. Look what you did! Clean it up for me!”
Minjae’s eyes widened as Hyera held the phallus to her lips. She squeezed her jaw open, then pushed it past her lips and teeth. Before Minjae could protest, the vibrator filled her mouth, tasting like her.
“Maybe this’ll teach you to be quiet, Minjae,” Hyera pushed and pulled the phallus, in and out of Minjae’s mouth, at first slowly, then a little quicker. “Good girl, keep going. I want this toy sparkling when you’re done with it.”
Holding back a cry and a gag, Minjae obeyed. She moved her mouth with Hyera’s rhythm, licking and sucking the silicone phallus. It was ages before Hyera deemed it clean enough and tossed it aside.
Hyera pulled Minjae to her feet, then knelt her down on the guest bed, face first. She cried out, her sensitive, throbbing nipples hitting the hard mattress first, then pressure of her weight against her chest, further amplifying the pain. Minjae glanced up at Hyera, trying to gather her senses, but she couldn’t ground herself. Her mind swam in endorphins- a hazy mix of pain and pleasure was coursing through her and muddled every thought, every sensation. Hyera had a paddle in her hands, stroking the leather almost lovingly. A stab of fear pierced her.
“You lost the game, Minjae. That means a punishment is in order, isn’t it?” Hyera stated.
“Unnie, please-!” Minjae began. She felt Hyera’s hand on her bound wrists, pinning them in place. The paddle was grazing her ass and Minjae clenched, readying herself. “I’m sorry!”
“I think you like being lewd, Minjae,” Hyera said. Minjae could feel the paddle lowering to the back of her thigh, downwards, then upwards. “I think you wanted me to punish you, hmm?”
Minjae didn’t reply. She squirmed, unable to stand the wait any longer. For every morning Minjae awoke with Hyera between her legs, for every night she slept in Hyera’s arms, for every orgasm, for every gift, Minjae awaited the punishment. It didn’t happen often, but when it did, it was unforgettable. Minjae squeezed her eyes shut, another tear rolled down her cheek.
“Don’t cry, not yet, anyway. I haven’t even begun your punishment yet!” Hyera exclaimed as the paddle snapped down on Minjae’s ass.
The pain shot through her like an arrow. Minjae jolted upwards, crying out loudly as another strike of the paddle came down on the same spot. Minjae cried out with every strike, as Hyera alternated striking each cheek, coming down hard on her ass, on her thighs. Minjae began to sob, trembling almost.
“Have you had enough, Minjae?” Hyera stopped at last. She grabbed Minjae by the shoulder and turned her over.
The lack of pressure against her breasts was a welcomed relief. Minjae let out a shuddering sigh.
“Y-yes, Unnie. I’m so sorry, I’ll be better, I promise.” Minjae began, barely able to see Hyera in the haze of tears.
Hyera paused, then pointed the paddle at Minjae’s left breast. She pressed the tip of the paddle against her trapped nipple. Minjae cried out, arching her back.
“How sorry are you?” Hyera asked, clearly amused. She chuckled as she increased the pressure.
“Unnie-!” Minjae cried out. Her nipples were so sore, Minjae couldn’t stand it. She couldn’t bear the clamps for longer than an hour, but she had been ordered to wear them all evening. Her nipples were dark, crushed by the golden clamps so tightly, she was sure she’d cum if Hyera slipped even a single finger inside of her. “P-please, I’m very sorry!”
“If you’re sorry, spread open your legs for me.” Hyera ordered at once.
Minjae laid there, her thighs trembling still. She swallowed hard, realising what Hyera might just do if she opened her legs. Maybe she’d be kind. Maybe she’d let her cum.
Maybe she wouldn’t strike her there.
Minjae obeyed, parting her legs slowly.
“Good girl.” Hyera stood between Minjae’s legs and pressed the paddle to the clamp that had trapped her clit. Minjae screamed this time, her chest heaving as pleasure shot through her, a fresh, tantalising wave rushing over her. “I’ll forgive you Minjae for failing my game if you beg something from me.”
“Ha-! Ha-!” Minjae could barely speak. She was close to her limit. She wanted to cum so bad, she wanted Hyera Unnie in her arms. She watched Hyera, mouth parted as she panted heavily. “A-anything, Unnie.”
“Beg your master to strike your clit.” Hyera smirked, pushing harder against Minjae’s clit.
Minjae let out a whimper. It wasn’t what she wanted at all. Minjae gathered her courage, her senses.
“Master,” Minjae began, panting still.
“Yes, my lovely slave?” Hyera pushed harder, rubbing small circles against her trapped clit. It drove Minjae crazy. She cried out, moaning loudly. All of the words fell from her mind as she tossed her head back. “Am I distracting you? How lewd you are, Minjae. Moaning like this during a punishment!”
Minjae almost didn’t care. It was better than being paddled and it was better than being alone in the closet. She whimpered once more than Hyera pulled away the paddle, leaving only the constant throbbing pain of the clamp behind.
“Now, this is your last chance Minjae, beg me to hit your clit.” Hyera warned. “Or there’ll be consequences.”
It took Minjae a second, but she gathered herself. Panting, desperate for Hyera Unnie’s approval, she obeyed.
“Master, please, hit me.” Minjae began. She could see Hyera smirking. “Hit my clit.”
“How many times?” Hyera asked.
“As- As many times as you want, master.” Minjae admitted, hoping she wouldn’t regret it.
“So sex crazed. You love punishments, don’t you?” Hyera pulled back the paddle and it made hard contact with Minjae’s sex.
It was excruciating. Minjae cried out, fresh tears spilling from her eyes at once. The pain was so sharp, it shot up her core, making her pussy clench. It made her nipples ache, her heart raced faster than before.
“What do you say, slave?” Hyera asked.
Half panting, half sobbing, Minjae tried to open her mouth but no words came out.
“Let me hear it, Minjae.” Hyera pushed open Minjae’s legs again. She hadn’t even realised that she had tried to close them.
“I’m . . . I’m sorry master . . !” Minjae cried out, more tears rolling down her face and into her hair. “Punish me again!”
Hyera struck Minjae three times in succession, in the same exact spot. The pain was so visceral, so intense, Minjae didn’t even scream, she only sobbed silent tears.
The pain swam all over her body. She couldn’t bear it as it became so intense, so powerful. Minjae was only vaguely aware of Hyera’s hands on her body, releasing her from the clamps.
“Let me help you, Minjae.” Hyera was between her legs. Her gentle tongue pushed inside of Minjae’s aching pussy. At once, Minjae moaned, arching her back against her own arms, against the hard mattress. The orgasm was swift and powerful, more so than the punishment. Hyera’s tongue explored her, caressing her, like a tender lover. Minjae cried again and again, unable to handle the sudden delicacy in which Hyera pleasured her. The wave of relief, the suddenness of it all, made Minjae cry. Soft, fat tears down her cheeks as Hyera continued, each lick, each stroke of her tongue, was a little bit closer to heaven.
Once Minjae’s orgasm faded, Hyera undid the cuffs and helped Minjae into the bathtub to soothe her aching body.
*
The cool cream was a welcomed relief. Minjae let out a gasp as the lotion was rubbed onto her ass, Hyera making sure that each red bloom would not end up an ugly bruise.
“That feels so much better, Unnie!” Minjae exclaimed, hugging her pillow a little harder. After a soothing bath and some food, Minjae felt as though the road to recovery was short for such an intense punishment.
“It does, doesn’t it?” Hyera replied, squirting more of the lotion into her hands. “This won’t leave a single mark on your perfect ass.”
Minjae wiggled her ass slightly, looking up at Hyera Unnie. She had her doubts about the game Hyera had introduced, but the aftercare was worth it. Having Hyera Unnie take care of her, washing her body, brushing her hair, and then rubbing lotion all over her? It was the most delicate she’d ever treated her.
However, something tugged under the surface. Something she had overheard in the most desperate moments of her trying to keep silent, trapped in that closet, as the vibrator exploded inside of her, making her cum.
“Unnie, can I ask you a question?” Minjae asked timidly. She had heard the words correctly, she was sure of it. Even if her body was preoccupied, her mind was still there.
“What is it, my Minjae?” Hyera replied, slathering on more lotion.
“I . . . I overheard your father say that the next tenants would love the guest room . . . Does that mean he’s selling the condo?” Minjae asked. She watched as Hyera Unnie’s pretty pink lips went from a placid smile to a slight frown.
“No wonder you failed the game. You weren’t focussing.” Hyera said at once, grabbing Minjae’s ass tightly with one hand, digging her short nails into her flesh. Minjae cried out- despite the bath, despite the lotion, her skin was still sensitive from the earlier paddling.
“Unnie-!” Minjae twisted herself to see Hyera Unnie better, but Hyera planted her hand onto Minjae’s breast.
“What else did you hear, hmm?” Hyera asked, pressing Minjae’s nipple between her thumb and forefinger.
Minjae glanced down, her heart racing. “N-nothing else, Unnie, I swear!”
She let go of Minjae’s breast, then cupped her face gently.
“We’ll be moving sometime in the future,” Hyera Unnie said in a softer tone. “Nothing to worry about, my Minjae.”
Minjae let out a shuddering breath. “O-oh, ok.” She muttered.
“You’re exhausted, Minjae. Go to bed.” Hyera Unnie said after a moment. She pressed her lips against Minjae’s, then got off of the bed.
Minjae sat on the bed, watching as Hyera left the room. Her heart was still beating furiously in her chest and that tugging sensation had not relented one bit.
“Renting out this condo won’t be hard at all. It’ll be snatched up in the market in no time.”
“You just need to hurry and meet up with Park Junmyeon. A wedding is something that takes a lot of planning!”
Minjae hadn’t imagined it, even if she was in the throes of an intense and mind blowing orgasm, she had heard Hyera Unnie’s parents talk of moving and marriage.
And it scared her.
Notes:
So! Thoughts and feelings?
Midnight Ice is finally here and I have mixed feelings. I'm glad to finally publish it, but at the same time, I don't know if I'm ready to leave my version of Minjae and the gang. I'm already brewing up side story ideas when I should be taking a break or at least, working on another fic that I've been putting off since starting the Cherry Gold series. We'll see which wins out, huh?
I already brought it up in the final side story, but the manhwa has finished its run and I HAVE FEELINGS. It was awful and I'm very disappointed. Someone talk to me about this (either here or on tumblr).
I'll try not to make long notes after each chapter, unless you guys want behind the scenes stuff. (I actually like explaining my thought process behind each chapter but that's me.) But for this chapter, remember, its been five years that Hyera and Minjae are together and a few months that they have been living together officially. Their games are only going to be more intense, Hyera more toxic, and well, what will happen to Minjae?
Enjoy!!
Chapter Text
Two seats away, Kim Minji was staring at Kang Yuna.
Oh Hyera wanted to laugh, but she was guilty of the same thing.
Life was seemingly full of coincidences. The world was just that small. Hyera wanted to laugh and thank the heavens for bringing Kang Yuna back into her life just a few days after she had left. Hyera spotted Kang Yuna standing next to a petite girl with short hair. The girl was laughing, she had a big smile on her face.
Any idiot with eyes could see that Kang Yuna was in love with her.
And it only grew more obvious as the semester grew.
Kim Minji was so eager to make new friends, that it was so easy to slide in between them. Hyera just had to say the word- food? Drinks? Study party? Minji was down to do whatever. Kang Yuna tagged along to make sure Minji wouldn’t make a drunken fool of herself.
It was too easy. Too, too easy.
Watching Yuna from afar was interesting enough. Hyera watched as Yuna yearned for Minji, as Minji obsessed over boys, as Minji drank herself silly, as Minji partied, as Minji studied. Yuna was there and Hyera could almost taste the desperation. Those long, sullen looks. The classic yearning.
Wanting someone you couldn’t have was the most difficult pain to endure. Hyera wouldn’t know- she found girls so easily, they piled on her lap. It wasn’t hard.
Kang Yuna was hard to obtain. Nothing could tempt her away, it seemed.
Hyera invited her out for drinks and introduced her to girls. She’d kiss, she’d touch, and Hyera knew for a fact that Yuna fucked them all- every single girl she introduced to her- but Yuna’s eyes were set on Minji. Never changing.
No matter how pretty the girl. No matter which girl, nothing seemed to compare to Minji.
The problem wasn’t Kang Yuna’s unyielding love, but Kim Minji herself.
Notes:
Hello everyone! I have a long weekend of relaxation starting today so I figured that I'd post a new chapter of Midnight Ice for each day.
As you can tell, Hyera's chapters are called 'intermissions'. They're sprinkled throughout the story and are flashbacks. Reading the past comments made me realized that I should have established more of a backstory for her. I've been toying with the idea of more side stories, especially since I'm having trouble getting into writing anything but this fic series haha.
Writing Hyera's chapters were really fun. I wrote them all in like two consecutive weekends and it was a blast. I normally don't get into the headspace of a character like her too often, so this is a deep dive in comparison.
Enjoy!! Until tomorrow!!
Chapter Text
Human Resources was not a place Yuna had to visit often, and she wasn’t sure if she was even allowed to ask, but it was worth a try. In between meetings and during the entirety of her lunch break, Yuna asked around the writing departments, but they all pointed towards Human Resources. After a long day, Yuna headed down to the administration floor and knocked on the door with the sign she needed.
Yuna hated inconveniencing others. She wanted to look for Cho Minjae on her own, but she knew it was impossible. Yet, even though she was the only person she knew who seemed to know Cho Minjae at all, it suddenly felt as though Yuna didn’t know her at all.
Yuna didn’t know the name of any of her family members, or where they worked or went to school. She didn’t know any of her friend’s names. And Yuna certainly didn’t know the name of Cho Minjae’s current lover. All she knew was that Cho Minjae was supposed to work at WeiYoppu and even that had a shaky foundation.
“You’re searching for an employee?” The woman behind the desk asked, raising an eyebrow. The HR rep was an older woman, in her early middle age. Her make up was simple and understated, but wore a large ruffle at the collar of her blouse.
“Yes, she was hired here about three months ago? In mid March?” Yuna added.
The woman leaned back in her chair, raising an eyebrow. “That’s not a lot to go off of, Miss Kang. It would take an immense amount of effort to track down a single employee during the huge hiring period we just had.”
Yuna sat there for a moment, letting the words sink in. The HR rep wouldn’t do it for free, was that it?
“What do you want, then?” Yuna asked in a careful tone.
The woman gasped, one hand to her chest. “What are you insinuating, Miss Kang?”
“Would you help me if I do you a favour?” Yuna asked. “I’m more than willing to.”
The woman smiled sweetly. “Not only is using the employee database for personal use against protocol, but insinuating that I’d do it for a favour, is even more so deplorable, Miss Kang. I suggest that you talk to my colleague three desks over for a good scolding!” She winked slightly, then turned back to the screen.
Yuna’s mouth twitched. Did it have to be so complicated? She thanked and apologised the HR rep and walked over, past the three desks and saw that this time, she had been directed to a young man.
“The HR rep sent me here,” Yuna said, nodding towards the woman who was glancing back at her.
The young man, with messy black hair and glasses, nodded right away. “Mrs Kim loves expensive, European chocolates. She hates going across the city to find them, so whenever she is given some, she becomes very agreeable.” He said, almost reciting it.
Yuna ran her hand through her hair. How annoying.
*
After work, Yuna took a taxi to chauffeur her across the city and to the speciality chocolate store she had found online. On the website of the store she had found, there were lots of positive reviews of the European chocolates, so she was sure to find something that the HR rep woman would like.
Yuna picked out an expensive box for the HR rep, but also a few bars for Minji. Not just out of guilt of working so hard to find an ex girlfriend, but because Minji would be upset if she knew Yuna had gone to a chocolate shop without her. It would be a pre-emptive peace offering.
The train ride home was long. Too long for Yuna. She nearly fell asleep more times than she could count and regretted not buying a coffee for the way home. Instead of sleeping, she scrolled on her phone, trying to think of where she hadn’t looked for Cho Minjae.
She tried all of the social media she knew of- she made accounts for every one she could think of. Yuna even tried dating apps, downloading them and then swiping away every lesbian in Seoul. None of which had Cho Minjae.
Luckily for Yuna, when she came home, Minji had already picked up supper from the deli run by the local auntie. Minji had a craving for black bean noodles and had also picked up Yuna’s favourite, kimchi pork ribs. There were also a huge array of side dishes, but Yuna was so exhausted, she ate her ribs and some rice before cracking open a beer.
“Are we gonna watch another episode of Secret Song or what?” Minji asked once she had finished filling the dishwasher.
Yuna was on the couch, petting Siwoo absentmindedly as she scrolled through social media. Minji had posted photos of her afternoon adventure at the dog park from the weekend. Yuna liked all of the photos, and saw that half of Minji’s friend list did as well.
“I suppose. I’m tired though. I might fall asleep.” Yuna replied.
Minji sat on the couch, right next to Siwoo. She gave the dog a scratch behind the ear while Woong, who was asleep a few metres away, woke up to stare. “That’s okay. I know you’re not the biggest fan.”
“Not since Han Yuri broke up with Song Jimin, actually. I was enjoying the plot up until then.” Yuna admitted quietly.
“Yeah, because Song Jimin finally opened his eyes and realised he belonged to Lee Nari!” Minji retorted enthusiastically. “Han Yuri’s gonna find out this episode and she’s gonna be so mad!”
Yuna rolled her eyes and glanced back down at her phone. Oh Hyera had just left a comment on a photo of Minji and Woong while Siwoo ran wildly in the background.
What good doggies!! I want to pet them!!
Oh Hyera never struck Yuna as the type to have pets, let alone liking dogs. She seemed too busy, too upper class to lower herself to properly take care of something like dogs. Even cats seemed like a stretch.
“I’m craving something sweet! I should have gotten ice cream to go with our supper!” Minji whined. “Do we have anything sweet, Yuna?”
Yuna glanced up from her phone and thought of the chocolate she had bought. “I got some chocolate today, from work.” Yuna wasn’t sure how to explain that she had gone across the city to find chocolate to bribe a coworker to find her ex girlfriend, so she worked on a lie over supper.
“You did??” Minji clapped her hands together as Yuna got up from the couch. “Yay! That’s so amazing, Yuna!”
Yuna smiled to herself, trying to push down the terrible guilt that built up inside of her so suddenly. She grabbed the chocolate from the fridge and handed the bars to Minji.
“What! These look so fancy!” Minji received the bars with her two hands, then immediately turned them around, inspecting them. “Are they from Switzerland???”
Yuna hadn’t remarked. She grabbed one and saw that yes, she had bought milk chocolate from Switzerland. “Y-yeah, I guess they are.”
“Yuna, Switzerland is famous for chocolate, didn’t you know??” Minji tore open the first bar and broke off a piece. “Do you want some?”
Yuan shook her head. She didn’t like sweets that much, especially chocolate. Her appetite was lacking. However, she watched as Minji hummed with delight as she popped a square of chocolate into her mouth, chewing it carefully and savouring the flavours.
Suddenly. Yuna thought of that Christmas, five years ago. Minjae in the kitchen of her tiny apartment, popping a bright red, syrup dipped strawberry into her mouth, moaning with pleasure of eating so good.
And how Yuna made love to her that night, making sure that Minjae could only moan for her.
Her core tightened at the mere thought.
“Are you okay, Yuna?” Minji asked.
Yuna nodded quickly, then drank some of her beer. “I’m very tired, actually. I think I’ll go to bed early.”
“Your job is overworking you, Yuna!” Minji huffed. “How about we go away this weekend? Hmm? Or at least, soon?”
Yuna smiled and kissed the top of Minji’s head. “Let’s talk about it tomorrow. Goodnight, Minji.”
“Goodnight, Yuna!” Minji replied. “Do you mind if I eat the whole bar?”
“Go ahead. I knew you would like it,” Yuna left the living room and headed to the bedroom.
Once she had showered and gotten dressed for bed, Yuna slipped her hand between her legs and thought of that Christmas memory until it lulled her to sleep.
*
Yuna presented the chocolates to the HR rep woman the next day and it was just what was needed to be done.
“Name? Employee ID?” The woman asked as she turned to her computer, her hands ready to type on the keyboard once she had popped a small chocolate into her mouth.
“Uh, Cho Minjae. I don’t know her ID number.” Yuna replied sheepishly.
The woman only nodded, typing quickly and only slightly moving her mouse. “Hmm. It seems as though Miss Cho Minjae is no longer an employee here.” She said after a moment.
Yuna’s eyes went wide, her heart sinking at once. “What?”
“There’s not much to say, unfortunately. She was hired, in the system for a few days, then removed as an employee. She must have had another job offer.” The woman glanced back at Yuna, over her glasses.
For a moment, Yuna panicked. Cho Minjae must have turned down the job offer because of her, didn’t she? It consumed Yuna until she met the other woman’s eyes.
“Um, is that all I am allowed to know?” Yuna asked. “I’m quite worried about this friend. I haven’t heard from her in three months.”
The woman cocked an eyebrow again. “I’ve already told you everything. Her dossier is empty, Miss Kang.” She turned the screen so that Yuna could see it. There wasn’t even a photo of Cho Minjae on her file. Just a starting date and an ending date. March 9th to March 13th.
“Thank you,” Yuna gave a small bow of her head and left the woman’s office.
Defeat filled her so easily.
But not as easily as regret.
Why had she kissed her? Why was she so eager to have and hold Cho Minjae? Yuna glanced down at her hands, recalling how easily Minjae had fit in her arms, under her hands, and against her body that day. Yuna couldn’t control herself. She couldn’t help herself and that truth that rang through her: she still loved Cho Minjae and she didn’t know why.
And the fact that she seemingly fell off of the earth without a word destroyed her.
Notes:
Hello!! Here's another Yuna chapter!
Poor Yuna, I do feel quite bad for her this chapter. She's not any closer to finding Minjae than when she began. I won't say more on the subject but it'll be a few more chapters before any of this progresses . . .
Anyway, I managed to convince myself to write more for this universe. If I ever find the time (my summer schedule leaves little time for writing), I'll be working on more side stories.
Enjoy! A new chapter will be posted tomorrow and monday, since I'm currently having a long weekend and there's many chapters to get through!! One per week would be cruel haha. I'll probably do two updates per week starting next week.
Chapter Text
It seemed as though since her parents had visited, Hyera Unnie was reluctant to leave Minjae alone in the condo. In the past week, Hyera cleared her work schedule to work from home, making sure that Minjae had no time for herself.
Minjae didn’t always mind, but however, she had a deadline coming up and was desperate to steal time away on her laptop. Instead, Minjae did the household chores, lounging about in her robe while Hyera Unnie tapped away on her work laptop in the kitchen. Despite the large condo, Hyera Unnie hadn’t converted the guest bedroom into an office, but she rarely ever worked from home, so it made sense.
“Unnie, it’s such a nice day!” Minjae said after their lunch of freshly made kimbap. “Should we go on a walk?”
Hyera resumed working after lunch, nearly right away. “I’d love to, my Minjae, but I have work to do.”
Minjae paused, watching Hyera’s expression. Since their game on the weekend, their normal dynamic had resumed. No games, no punishments. “Could I go on my own, then?”
“Where are you going, then?” Hyera asked.
“Just around the neighbourhood, maybe I’ll grab a drink? Or should I pick something up for supper?” Minjae offered.
“I suppose.” Hyera sighed, glancing over at Minjae. “Bring me an iced latte, my Minjae. I’ll make some phone calls while you’re out, hmm?”
Minjae clapped her hands together. “Great!”
Minjae hurried to the bedroom. Since living with Hyera, Minjae found herself often wearing very few clothes. Hyera Unnie preferred it that way, afterall. Minjae only had to dress when she needed to run errands, or to go out for dinner. Since it was a warm spring day, Minjae slipped on a white summer dress and removed the collar from around her neck.
“Oh, Minjae!” Hyera exclaimed when Minjae emerged from the bedroom with her sensible heels in one hand and her purse slung over her shoulder. “Who are you dressing up for?”
Minjae blushed. “No one in particular, Unnie.”
Hyera got up from her chair and approached her, cupping Minjae’s face in her hands. “You dress up for me, Minjae. Your Unnie.” She stated.
“I do,” Minjae smiled, her heart beginning to race. “I’m sorry.”
“You’re amazing, Minjae. You’re beautiful in that dress.” Hyera replied. “Everyone will be stunned by your beauty when you walk down the street.”
“Unnie!” Minjae was blushing now. “You’re too much.”
Hyera pulled Minjae into an embrace, holding her tight against her body. Minjae could feel Hyera’s hands on her back, lowering down to the edge of the skirt, then up again to cup her ass.
“How about a little game, Minjae?” Hyera muttered as her thumbs dug between Minjae’s flesh of her hips and the panties.
“Unnie?” Minjae gulped, feeling her panties being tugged at. Suddenly, she felt a drop of dread and her core tightened in anticipation.
“A little secret, just for us, hmm?” Hyera pulled down Minjae’s panties just a bit, then grabbed a fistful of the fabric and tore them off of her. Minjae gasped loudly as the fabric strained against her pelvis, her opening. “Try not to show off your pretty pussy to everyone, Minjae. That’s just for me.”
“Unnie-!” Minjae began but as she did, Hyera reached between Minjae’s legs from the front, her fingers skirting Minjae’s opening. She was teasing her- she wanted to assert herself over Minjae. The idea of walking down the streets, without panties, wet from a fresh orgasm . . . Minjae almost shuddered. “Ha-! Unnie-!”
Hyera pushed her fingers inside and Minjae leaned into her, grasping Hyera’s shirt.
“Do you want to cum? Or wait until you get back?” Hyera asked, pumping her hand a little harder.
“Ha-! Ha-! Unnie, please!” Minjae began. A part of her hated how easily she bent to Hyera’s whims. How she was unable to say no to her- not out of fear of punishment, but because pleasing her Unnie was all she ever wanted to do.
“I’ll lick you up when you get back, Minjae.” Hyera muttered into her ear. “You already came this morning. I shouldn’t spoil you too much, should I?”
“Ha-! Oh, Unnie, you’re so cruel-!” Minjae whimpered when Hyera removed her fingers from inside of her. She was aching terribly now.
Her body, even after five years of Hyera Unnie’s love, desperately couldn’t deal without Hyera. She craved Hyera Unnie’s attention, her power to make her cum so fast and hard. Taking it away when her body craved it was the cruellest punishment of all.
“You think I’m cruel, Minjae?” Hyera said as she offered up the two fingers to Minjae. Minjae eagerly took the wet fingers into her mouth, cleaning them up for her Unnie. “I could be crueller. Would you like that?”
Minjae shook her head, lapping up her own juices.
“Would you like some clamps, Minjae? To make the afternoon more fun?” Hyera asked, cupping Minjae’s face. “Or a toy in your pussy, and you’ll have to hold your sweet voice in?
Minjae shook her head again as Hyera pulled her fingers out of Minjae’s mouth. “No, Unnie, that’s too cruel.”
Hyera inspected her hand. “Looks clean enough. Maybe we’ll play that game next time. Running errands without panties is enough.”
Hyera Unnie grabbed her purse and handed Minjae her credit card. “Remember, I want an iced latte.”
“I won’t forget, Unnie.” Minjae replied.
With a quick kiss (Minjae tried to prolong it, in hopes of more, but Hyera Unnie saw through her), Minjae was out the door.
*
The first place Minjae went to was the nearby coffee shop. She ordered herself a milk tea made with a fruity tea blend that wasn’t too sweet, to her surprise. Next, she hailed a taxi to go to her favourite market.
Normally, she’d take the train, but without panties, there was no way she would escape the ride without a pervert finding out her little secret.
As Minjae sipped her drink, she watched the city pass through the taxi window. Despite it being in the middle of the work day, lots of people were out and about on the streets, enjoying the good weather. Mostly office workers, taking a late lunch break. However, going to her favourite market meant passing by the WeiYoppu building.
Her heart ached as she saw the building come up in the distance of the busy street. Minjae stared at it, trying not to dwell on the what ifs. She glanced away as they passed it, unsure if she could bear it.
Kang Yuna was in that building. She was working, walking the halls and talking to her coworkers, attending meetings or crunching numbers at her desk. Minjae could imagine her there, with her glasses, typing away and referencing papers and spreadsheets. She could see Yuna picking up a black coffee or two during the day.
She could see Kang Yuna pinning her to the wall, lifting her skirt and promising her a life she could never wish to have.
Minjae gulped, holding her hand to her chest, but her heart sank when she realised that her one gift from Kang Yuna was no longer around her neck. Yuna had returned it to her, and Minjae hid it in a box in the guest room.
Like her feelings, she had tucked it away and pushed it out of her view, out of her mind.
*
The market was bustling- women and men and children filled the slim walkways between stalls, people shouting and calling out for other people. The scent of fresh fish, spices, oils and other delectable foods wafted through the air. Minjae bought what she needed- every time she brushed up against someone, or someone was too close to her rear, she grew nervous of her secret being revealed.
Any lone breeze would reveal her sex, so Minjae made sure to be extra careful.
Minjae wandered through the streets, out of the busy market with a bag full of supplies for supper. Fresh fish, fresh kimchi, fresh everything- for cheap, too. Hyera Unnie would be proud. Minjae finished the rest of her milk tea and walked the streets of the neighbourhood. There were so many shops that Minjae had never noticed before. She lingered in front of each storefront, taking her time. There were clothing boutiques with the latest fashions, designer hanboks that Minjae was afraid to even dare ask the price of, purses, handbags, shoes, pastisseries, bakeries, coffee and tea shops, and even an international chocolate shop! Minjae was tempted to step into the chocolate shop, but the afternoon was escaping from her.
After another short taxi ride (passing the WeiYoppu building once more, which made Minjae’s heart ache more than earlier), Minjae was back in her original neighbourhood. She picked up a few more things from the local grocery store, then went to the cafe that Hyera Unnie loved the most to pick up her iced latte.
“Took you long enough, Minjae,” Hyera Unnie said when Minjae stepped through the door.
“I’m sorry, Unnie. There was traffic and the market was very busy.” Minjae replied. She removed her sandals and took her groceries to the kitchen, where Hyera Unnie followed her.
“Oh, is that the reason?” Hyera Unnie asked.
“Of course,” Minjae answered, glancing from the corner of her eye to see that Hyera Unnie was directly behind her. Minjae laid out the items of her haul onto the counter, including Hyera Unnie’s iced latte.
Hyera Unnie waited until Minjae put away the food, before pinning her against the counter, from behind.
“I thought maybe,” Hyera Unnie leaned into her ear, her hand delving under Minjae’s skirt. “Someone saw your pretty pussy and had to have a taste for themselves.”
“Ha-!” Minjae gasped as Hyera Unnie’s fingers pushed inside of her. She opened her legs wider, so that her fingers wouldn’t feel so tight inside, but it didn’t make a difference. “Ha-! Unnie- of course not!”
“You’re a little wet, though, my Minjae,” Hyera Unnie pushed her fingers even deeper. “Was your secret too much to bear?”
“Ha-!” Minjae moaned, leaning over the counter and pushing out her hips for Hyera Unnie.
“I think you like going out and showing off your pussy, don’t you?” Hyera Unnie teased, massaging Minjae’s g spot now. Suddenly, Minjae rolled her hips with the motion, but Hyera Unnie held her hips steady with her other hand. “Dirty girl . . . My poor, sex crazed Minjae. I bet you were hoping someone would notice, hmm?”
“N-no-!” Minjae gasped, half whining. Hyera Unnie could control her body so well, it was akin to torture. She knew how to stroke her to arouse her, but not to make her cum.
“Were you hoping some stranger would touch you?” Hyera asked, digging her fingers into Minjae’s flesh.
“No-!”
“I think so,” Hyera replied. “I think you were desperate for someone to fuck you, weren’t you?”
“Ha-!” Minjae whined, tossing back her head as Hyera massaged harder. Her core was numbing quickly, but Minjae knew better than to expect to cum.
“You know very well you belong to me, Minjae,” Hyera reminded her. “No one can see your pussy but me.”
“I’m- I’m sorry!” Minjae couldn’t handle the teasing any longer. She glanced back at Hyera, hoping for a reprieve.
“Are you, though?” Hyera pulled out her fingers and turned Minjae over. She placed herself between Minjae’s legs and grabbed fistfuls of her dress, yanking it over her head.
“Unnie-!” Minjae began as the dress was pulled off over her head and then so easily tossed aside.
“Look at you, wearing underclothes,” Hyera Unnie scoffed. She reached around Minjae’s back and undid the tiny clasps and pulled off her bra as well. “You know better than that, Minjae.”
Minjae laid there, half on the counter with her elbows propping herself up. Her heart was racing and her core ached for relief. However, Minjae couldn't shake off the feeling that she had done something wrong. She was in need of punishment, she could feel it in her bones.
“You’re mine, aren’t you?” Hyera reached over for her iced latte, taking a sip of the drink, then holding the plastic cup over Minjae’s stomach.
Minjae watched as the condensation slid down the cup, then a single, fat drop of icy water fell onto her pale skin. She winced, glancing away.
“My poor, sex crazed Minjae,” Hyera Unnie put down the cup and opened it. She pulled out a tiny ice cube. “Let’s play another game.”
“Unnie-?” Minjae began as Hyera laid the rapidly melting ice cube against her bare skin. The cold burned into her, leaving a puddle. Minjae sucked through her teeth, watching.
“Playing with you is so fun, Minjae,” Hyera pulled Minjae onto the kitchen table. Minjae hadn’t even noticed that it had been cleared when she arrived. Hyera’s work things and laptop were nowhere to be seen. Minjae laid on her back, shivering slightly as the puddle ran down her stomach and settled near her navel. “Your body is so wonderful. And it’s just for me.”
“It is, Unnie. I’m yours.” Minjae replied, watching as Hyera Unnie fished out more ice cubes from her drink.
“Where shall I place these?” Hyera Unnie asked, smirking devilishly. The ice was melting in her hands and dripping across Minjae’s stomach.
“Wherever you like, Unnie,” Minjae said, her heart racing even faster. She gasped as each drop made contact with her skin. She could feel the goosebumps prickle her skin, her nipples were pebbling as well.
Hyera Unnie placed a single ice cube between Minjae’s breasts. The icy cold made Minjae flinch, but she didn’t dare move too much. Hyera Unnie placed another inside of Minjae’s navel and she shuddered.
“Is it too cold, Minjae?” Hyera Unnie asked, placing a cube on Minjae’s stomach.
“A little, Unnie- ha-!” Minjae could feel the cubes, so cold, melting against her flesh. It was almost like fire after Hyera Unnie’s earlier teasing, which left her hot and wanting.
“Only a little?” Hyera took a larger ice cube and held it between her fingers. “How about this?”
Minjae watched, shivering almost, as Hyera Unnie ran the ice cube against her nipple. The cold had settled deep inside of her, arousing her even further.
“Look at your tits, Minjae. Look at how hard your pretty little pink nipple is!” Hyera Unnie exclaimed when she removed the cube.
“Ha-!” Minjae closed her eyes as Hyera Unnie blew air on her frozen breast, gasping loudly.
Hyera Unnie laughed, then applied the slowly reducing ice cube against the other nipple. Minjae whined and whimpered, trying not to move so that the ice cubes on her body wouldn’t shift and make the rest of her even colder.
“Ha- Ha-! Unnie!” Minjae called out.
“What is it, Minjae?” Hyera asked. “Is it too much?”
“You’re teasing me so much, Unnie.” Minjae said, her core tight and aching terribly now. She didn’t want to be built up and left alone. She wanted Hyera. “You said . . . you said you’d lick me, Unnie.”
Hyera Unnie smirked and fished out another ice cube. “Did I? I don’t recall, Minjae.”
Minjae swallowed hard. Hyera hitched up one of Minjae’s legs and threw it over her shoulder. The ice cubes shifted, rolling down her stomach and onto the table, leaving a trail of icy water.
“But Unnie-!”
“You’re so sex crazed, Minjae. You must have imagined it.” Hyera Unnie stated. She pressed the ice cube against Minjae’s clit and laughed when Minjae cried out, her body jolting. “I don’t want to lick you, Minjae. I want to play with your body.”
“Ha- Ha-! Unnie! It’s too cold!” Minjae cried out, the ice burning against her clit, not even remotely dousing the heat between her legs. It made her crave Hyera Unnie more. Being naked and vulnerable, at the mercy of Hyera Unnie’s wiles . . . Whatever that may be. “Please-!”
“-Stop?” Hyera Unnie finished, leaning over Minjae. “As your master, I don’t want to stop. I want to tease you, Minjae. I want to play with your body all day.”
Minjae whined, the ice cube dripping water against her thighs.
“Maybe this’ll cool you off,” Hyera Unnie grabbed her iced latte and pressed the still full cup against Minjae’s opening. “Do you still want to be licked, Minjae?”
“Ha-!” Minjae arched her back, the cold shocking her to her core. She pressed her thighs together, but not too tightly.
“Yes, hold my cup there.” Hyera said with another smirk. “If I am ever thirsty, I should just drink from my cup, like so.”
Minjae watched as Hyera Unnie dipped her head to her thighs. It was such a tease that Hyera Unnie sipped her drink, making sure to grab Minjae’s thighs and hips to keep her steady.
“What a lovely cup holder I have,” Hyera Unnie said, pressing her lips to Minjae’s thigh before straightening up.
“Unnie . ..” Minjae began, shivering once more. “Am I supposed to lay here all day?”
“No, of course not,” Hyera Unnie replied. “I have other ways for you to serve me, Minjae.”
And with a smirk, Minjae knew what she had to do. Perhaps Hyera Unnie would honour her promise later in the day.
Or at least, Minjae hoped so.
Notes:
Hello!!
Here's a chapter with Minjae and Hyera. Again, always fun to write those two together. Then again, I think I say that about every character haha. I think that's why I keep coming back to Cherry Gold/ Minjae and the gang. It's just fun for me to write. There's nothing I hate more than when writing becomes a chore.
Please enjoy!!!
Chapter 7: Second Intermission
Chapter Text
“Minji, are you excited to be a sophmore?” Hyera asked, handing Minji a can of beer. The new semester was about to start and Hyera needed to set up her pieces.
Minji nodded. “I am! After this year, we’ll be halfway done with university!”
“That’s right,” Hyera replied. They touched cans before opening them. Minji gulped down eagerly. “You know, there’s going to be a group date next week.”
Minji spun around. “Really?”
Hyera nodded, sipping her can. “One of the seonbaes asked me to ask around for another girl. Are you interested?”
“Of course!” Minji turned to face Hyera, her face bright and pink from the beer already. “I haven’t been on a date in ages!”
“I know!” Hyera smiled. “You could use a boyfriend, Minji. You’re such a pretty girl and you’ve been single for far too long.”
Minji nodded, cradling her face. “I want to have more experiences with boys.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll help you out. I’m an expert, remember?” Hyera winked. “We’ll go shopping for your date together. You need something that’ll catch the eyes of the boys!”
“Thank you, Hyera! You’re the best!” Minji exclaimed excitedly. “Oh, wait, is there room for Yuna, you think?”
Hyera raised an eyebrow. “I don’t think so. And I don’t think group dates are Yuna’s thing.”
Minji sighed. “That’s true. She needs a lover, too, you know!”
“I doubt she’ll find a lover in a mixed sex group date, Minji,” Hyera replied. She sipped more of her beer. “And I think she has that handled on her own.”
“What do you mean?” Minji asked.
Ah, poor, sweet Minji.
“You know, Yuna has her own life outside of you. Doesn’t she tell you?” Hyera asked. “I mean, she has lovers all the time.”
Minji glanced away, clearly hurt. “No, she doesn’t tell me anything about that.”
“I thought you guys were friends?” Hyera asked. “Best friends, at that?”
Minji let out a sigh. “Ever since . . . Ever since . . .”
“Ever since what?” Hyera asked.
“Ever since I told Yuna about my . . . dream, she’s been weird and distant.” Minji began, blushing even harder.
“Oh?” Hyera raised an eyebrow. This was new. “What dream? Did you show up to class naked?”
“No, no!” Minji shook her head. “It was a . . . a sex dream.”
“Oooh, did you have a sex dream with a boyband member?” Hyera asked. Poor Minji was so red, almost unable to look Hyera in the eye. It was almost cute. “You know, we’re all guilty of those . . !”
“No, it was with Yuna.” Minji said at once.
Hyera sat still. Minji? Had a sex dream about Yuna? How hilarious! Sometimes, Hyera forgot that Minji wasn’t a child.
“Well? How did she take it?” Hyera asked, propping her chin on her hand.
Minji sat there, squirming slightly. “Well, uh, she changed the subject.”
Hyera smirked. Oh poor Yuna. Poor, poor Yuna.
“Do you want to have sex with Yuna?” Hyera asked.
Minji blushed harder, looking away. “I mean, wouldn’t it be weird?? We’re best friends! I’ve never done anything like that before-! I’m sure Yuna hates me now!”
Hyera couldn’t help but laugh. “Oh Minji, Yuna couldn’t hate you.”
“You don’t think so?”
“Of course not.” Hyera smirked. “But be honest with me, Minji. Do you have feelings for Kang Yuna?”
Minji sat there. “I mean, she’s my best friend. Of course I love her!”
Hyera rolled her eyes as she sipped her beer.
“But at the same time, what does the dream mean?” Minji asked. “Do I want to . . .to do those things?”
“Minji, do you even like women?” Hyera asked, putting down her beer. She supposed there was a solution at hand.
Minji blushed. “What? Well, women are pretty and all but I don’t know-!”
Hyera faced Minji and tucked back a lock of her hair. “Let’s test it, hmm? I’ll kiss you and then you’ll know if you like women, hmm?”
Minji’s face became even redder. Hyera didn’t think it was possible.
“What?”
Hyera rolled her eyes and cupped Minji’s face. Quickly, she pressed her lips against Minji’s. Her lips were soft, but when Hyera made a move to deepen the kiss, Minji moved away.
“Hyera!!” Minji yelped, covering her mouth.
“Well?” Hyera asked, picking up her beer. Minji was such a prude, she’d be no fun to play with.
“I mean, well . . . It was okay.” Minji replied, not looking at Hyera at all.. “It was just a kiss.”
“I mean we could try something else,” Hyera smirked.
“What? No!” Minji picked up her beer as well, gulping it down.
Hyera laughed. “So, do you think kissing a woman is any better than kissing a man?”
Minji shrugged. “I haven’t kissed that many men.”
“Nor women.”
Minji nodded, looking solemn.
“I think you just need the experience. Forget about Yuna-” Hyera waved her hand. “And focus on getting a boyfriend! Boyfriends are a great way to get experience! If Yuna wants to say something about the sex dream, she will.”
“You think so?” Minji asked.
Hyera nodded. “You can’t sit around and waste your life on what ifs, Minji! Go out and kiss some boys!”
Minji smiled a little. “You’re right, Hyera.”
Hyera sipped her beer. It was always too easy.
Chapter Text
The small towns that littered the countryside seemed so idyllic compared to the city.
Yuna drove the rental car as Minji pointed at every farm animal that passed, at every cute little cottage and house. The radio played quietly and the air conditioning kept them cool from the hot late spring heat that grew warmer everyday.
Focussing on the road was supposed to give Yuna a reprieve from her current problems. Getting out of the city and into the countryside inn was supposed to clear Yuna’s head. Spending the weekend with her girlfriend was supposed to make her forget about her ex lover.
Yet Yuna couldn’t shake off the feeling that she wasn’t looking in the right places, that she was so close yet so far when it came to Cho Minjae.
Cho Minjae was no longer employed at WeiYoppu inc. Her university email was no longer in use. Her phone number was reassigned. Her employer that she freelanced for had lost touch with her as well.
Yuna considered that Cho Minjae used a pseudonym, but it seemed out of character. Cho Minjae was proud of her writing. She loved to write and investigate and putting her name on it was to prove herself. To prove that she could do it.
To who? Yuna wasn’t sure yet.
“Earth to Yuna!” Minji called out. “Are you listening?”
“Hmm?” Yuna had been on autopilot once more. She gave Minji a quick glance before returning her eye to the road in front of her.
“I’ve been talking and you haven’t said a word!” Minji said, pouting slightly. “Are you even listening, Yuna?”
“Sorry, I was getting all caught up in my thoughts.” Yuna apologised, guilt settling in deep once more. How many times had she been zoning off on Minji in the past week or so? “Please, continue.”
“As I was saying,” Minji resumed. “I heard that the inn we’re staying at is super romantic! There’s a hot spring, and a hiking trail with a wonderful view! It's not far from a village! I’m so excited!”
“So I guess you want to do all of that?” Yuna asked.
“Of course! I want to see all of the sights!” Minji exclaimed. “And there’s so many good restaurants and bistros in the village, too!”
“Are you planning the itinerary?” Yuna asked, despite having been given the job three days ago. Minji insisted on letting Yuna do it and Yuna knew better than to refuse.
“Didn’t you plan everything already?” Minji asked, pursing her lips.
Yuna chuckled to herself. “Don’t worry. We have a nice weekend ahead of us, Minji.”
Minji clapped her hands together excitedly. “I sure hope so!”
Minji turned up the radio and began to belt out along to the song and Yuna found herself drifting along to her earlier thoughts.
Cho Minjae might have fallen off the face of the earth, but Yuna would find her. She’d find her and hold her one last time. She was determined to.
*
The countryside inn was bigger than Yuna had thought it would be. It was a large villa, remodelled many times. It was both modern in build yet classic traditional Korean in style and decoration. Their quarters were across the villa gardens, near the back. Once they had unpacked and explored the room, Yuna settled onto a cushion by the low table.
“What’s on the itinerary?” Minji asked, hands on her hips.
Yuna raised an eyebrow. “Resting. Driving is tiring, Minji.”
“Okay, so what’s after resting?” Minji asked.
“Dinner, in the village, of course.” Yuna replied. “There’s a traditional restaurant that was highly recommended online, so I made a reservation.”
Minji clapped her hands together. “Ooh! I’m excited!”
“The only catch is that we have to rent hanbok to wear.” Yuna replied. “We have to go early to have a fitting.”
Minji’s eyes grew wide. “Really? The restaurant must be popular with tourists!”
“I think so,” Yuna sighed and stretched her back. She could use a drink, as the tiredness of the drive was catching up to her.
Almost as if she had read her mind, Minji hurried to the complementary fridge and pulled out a bottle of soju. She sat at the table and poured out two glasses.
“Let’s toast to an amazing weekend!” Minji declared once Yuna took her glass.
Yuna nodded and sipped her soju at the same time as Minji. The warmth of the alcohol dulled the sinking feeling in her stomach.
*
“Yuna, what do you think?”
Yuna glanced up from the woman who was tying up the strings of her skirt to see Minji emerge from the other room. Minji had volunteered to be fitted first and Yuna wasn’t surprised to see that Minji was in a bright pink hanbok. Yuna couldn’t help but stare- pink was always Minji’s colour and she radiated, illuminating the changing room. The outer skirt was dark pink but not too full and voluminous. The jacket was paler, less flashy. In Minji’s hair were matching flower pins- bright pink cherry blossoms.
“Wow, Minji,” Yuna began, feeling her face warm in her presence. “You got dressed quickly.”
“I knew what I wanted!” Minji twirled, her skirt fanning around her.
“Miss, you look so good in hanbok!” The woman said as she pulled out a dark blue outer skirt for Yuna, but her eyes were on Minji. “Almost like a princess!”
Once the outer skirt was attached, the woman pulled out the jacket Yuna had already picked out- a bright red coat that the woman had highly suggested.
“Now, for the hair pins!” The woman brought Yuna a box of u- shaped hair pins. At first, Yuna didn’t want any, but one caught her eye.
A red hibiscus hair pin.
Her heart sank. Was this a sign? Was this fate? No, Yuna didn’t believe in any of that. What happened, happened. And Yuna was in charge of her life and her decisions. Yet the red hibiscus pin called to her. Yuna picked up the pin, recalling the glassy pendant that Cho Minjae wore often, that she had given back.
“What good taste, miss!” The woman cooed. “It’ll go wonderfully with your jacket!”
“I see you more with this one, Yuna,” Minji said, pointing to the hair pin set that had glassy baby’s breath instead. “It’ll suit you better, I think.”
Yuna swallowed hard and glanced over at Minji. She was holding something back. Did she know? Did Minji know what the hibiscus meant to her? Yuna never told her.
“You think?” Yuna asked.
“Both would look great!” The woman praised.
“The hibiscus is too bold,” Minji smiled. “I think the baby’s breath is more . . . subtle.”
Yuna nodded, but she didn’t let go of the pin. Not yet, anyway. She slowly returned it to the box and then picked up the baby’s breath pin. She inspected the pin, then replaced it.
“Hairpins aren’t for me. I’ll leave it like this.” Yuna declared after a moment. “Are we ready to eat?”
The woman nodded as she put the box away. “Your table should be ready by now, miss! I’ll go check right away.”
Once the woman was gone, Minji took Yuna’s hand.
“You’re so beautiful, Yuna.” Minji said, smiling up at her. “You don’t need any decorations.”
“Minji, you look amazing.” Yuna replied, realising that she hadn’t even complimented Minji yet. “You’re so pretty in pink.”
Minji blushed but didn’t look away. Her bright green eyes were locked on Yuna, her pink lips in a wide smile.
“I’m so glad you brought me here, Yuna.” Minji said, squeezing her hand.
“It was your idea,” Yuna reminded her, almost unable to maintain eye contact with Minji. It stung, almost. Her heart could only take so much.
“But you planned so much of it!”
Yuna didn’t argue. She knew that Minji would love the novelty of dressing up for dinner, in a village tucked away and nearly frozen in time. Yuna didn’t really care either way, but she supposed it was worth it to see Minji smile.
She wished she could be as invested as Minji was, as carefree as she was. Yuna still thought of the hibiscus hair pin.
*
Out of habit, Yuna awoke early the next day.
Despite eating and drinking late into the night, then finishing the soju they had begun before dinner after stumbling back to the inn, then making love until both of them were exhausted, Yuna pulled herself out of the bed in the morning. It was difficult, as the mattress was on the floor. Her body ached slightly, but she ignored it. She called for the room service breakfast delivery option, then scrolled on her phone for a bit.
There wasn’t much service in the village, but the wifi was better in the inn. Yuna checked her work email, out of habit, of course. It kept her busy until breakfast arrived- a full tray of every breakfast side dish available on the menu. With her hangover starting to thrum in her head, Yuna was sure that Minji would be hungover, too and nothing helped more than eating a lot of delicious food.
When Minji woke up, they ate their breakfast together in their pyjamas. Minji ate happily, trying every side dish and drinking lots of tea. Yuna picked at the dishes she liked, but wasn’t as hungry as she had thought she was. Before they left for the bathhouse, a kitchen worker picked up the leftovers.
After a quick soak in the bathhouse, located not too far from the inn, refreshed Yuna immensely. Minji, too, was in better spirits. As Minji talked about the bathhouse, how relaxing it was and how much she enjoyed the tea there, she wanted coffee, too. Yuna agreed to a detour to find coffee in the village.
It kept Yuna thinking of other things, but not always for long.
They found a coffee shop in the village and spent the early afternoon there. Then, Yuna bought packed lunches from the convenience store and they headed back to the inn. The next part of the itinerary was coming up- a short hike in the mountains.
Yuna insisted that Minji dress properly for the hike, and that she’d be too sweaty to want to wear a nice outfit. Yuna wore a simple t-shirt and shorts with hiking boots. Yuna also carried the water bottles and the packed lunches in a large backpack.
The hiking trail was a twenty minute drive from the inn. They weren’t the only people on the trail- many other tourists, couples and families were on the mountainside. Yuna led the way, walking slowly with Minji.
“Slow . . . down . . Yuna!” Minji groaned fifteen minutes into the hike.
Yuna glanced at Minji, smiling slightly. “Where was the stamina from last night, Minji?”
“Ah! Yuna! Not so loudly!” Minji cried out, blushing.
Yuna had to laugh.
“It’s not my fault that my family didn’t take me on hikes every weekend!” Minji whined again. “I’m out of shape!”
“You need better cardio, Minji.” Yuna teased. “Should we find a gym when we return to Seoul?”
Minji groaned loudly again, but she held Yuna’s hand a little tighter this time. Yuna squeezed back.
*
The view from the top of the trail, which wasn’t the top of the mountain, was spectacular.
“Look! You can see the village!” Minji called out, pointing down at the cluster of traditional houses, juxtaposed against the more modern buildings that were a little further away.
The sun hadn’t quite set yet, but Yuna could see the sun lowering slowly. It cast a pink hue over the village, over the landscape. It was a warm and fuzzy glow, like the late day humidity.
“Shall we go all the way to the top?” Yuna teased.
Minji held onto the rail of the viewing platform. “What? Are you crazy?”
Yuna chuckled, then held Minji’s hand. “I’m glad you thought of coming here, Minji.”
“I’m glad, too. I was worried you didn’t want to get away.” Minji replied. “You’ve been so preoccupied. I was worried.”
Yuna gulped quietly. Of course her behaviour hadn’t gone unnoticed. Minji wasn’t stupid or that unobservant. She knew Yuna well, just as Yuna knew Minji well enough to know when something was wrong.
“It’s work,” Yuna lied. “I’m just having trouble with this thing at work.”
“I know.” Minji leaned against Yuna’s arm, sighing quietly. “Should we eat?”
Yuna kissed the top of Minji’s head, not caring that there were other people around them. She led the way to the picnic tables, which were just off to the side of the viewing platform.
As Yuna undid her packed lunch, Minji’s usual spark seemed a little duller.
*
The rest of the evening was slated for relaxation. The inn was holding a banquet style meal, inviting all of the guests to attend. Minji coerced Yuna back to the bathhouse, to rinse off the sweat and dirt from their hike, then back to the inn to dress up. Exhausted from the sun and the exercise, Yuna let Minji lead her by the hand, to and fro.
The main banquet hall was in the centre of the villa, decked out in lanterns, in all of the wait staff in traditional clothing. Most of the guests weren’t dressed traditionally, but Yuna was surprised to see how many other couples and even a family sat at the longtable. Dozens and dozens of dishes were offered- some traditional, some modern favourites. There were various styles of kimchi, noodles (glass, buckwheat, ramyun), pork, beef, and chicken dishes- the smells were heavenly. Minji was salivating the moment they entered. Yuna had to admit, her stomach grumbled- even after their convenience store packed lunch seemed meagre and lacklustre compared to the feast before them.
Yuna watched as Minji ate eagerly- she was a never ending pit. She had to be, Yuna figured. To be so energetic and full of life, it had to take from somewhere.
“Yuna, try this!” Minji said excitedly, taking her chopsticks and piling food onto Yuna’s plate. “It’s really good!”
“Slow down, Minji. I won’t be able to eat it all,” Yuna warned in a quiet voice, so as to not scold Minji too loudly. The couple next to them had eyed them strangely.
“If you can’t eat it, I will!” Minji replied cheerfully. A little too cheerful. She bit into a fried dumpling and hummed. “So good!”
Yuna sipped her rice wine. Even Minji was acting strange now- had Yuna missed something? She wasn’t sure. She glanced around the table, observing the other guests, who ate and talked as the waitstaff took away empty plates and refilled the table with more side dishes. A woman in a colourful hanbok refilled the rice wine generously.
By the time the dessert courses were laid out, Yuna was already too full. Minji didn’t seem so full, or at least, she didn’t let it stop her. She ate many glutinous rice cakes, poached pears, and various pastries. Yuna couldn’t bear to eat any more. She craved a cigarette- she had withstood indulging in one all weekend, but she was at her limit now.
The final course of tea was served not too long after, in which Minji began to complain of being too sleepy and her stomach too full for any more.
“It was so good!” Minji moaned, laying down on the bed as Yuna scrolled on her phone.
“It was very good,” Yuna agreed. She wondered if Minji would retire soon, then Yuna could escape for a cigarette off of the villa’s premises. Yuna was sure that Minji had heavily hinted for this villa for its no smoking policy. “I just wish I had been hungrier.”
“I wish I had three stomachs!” Minji cried out. “I’m so stuffed, I’ll never eat again!”
“You know that’s not true, Minji,” Yuna glanced over at her, catching Minji’s playful glare.
“You’re so mean, Yuna! So mean!” She pouted, crossing her arms.
Yuna shook her head and glanced down at her phone. At once, the screen flashed for an incoming call. It was an unknown number.
Suddenly, Yuna’s heart dropped and her mind ran wild.
She hadn’t changed her number, just in case.
Who else would call her from an unknown number? Who else could it be?
“I have to take this,” Yuna said at once, leaving their room.
“Yuna?” Minji called out but Yuna slid the door behind her a little too sharply.
She accepted the call, as she put on her shoes, then headed straight for the exit of the villa’s walls.
“Hello?”
“Kang Yuna?”
Yuna stopped in her tracks, her heart cracking. It was a man’s voice. “Who is this?”
“Sorry for calling on the weekend, Kang Yuna. I . . . I overheard you talking to Mrs Kim last week.”
Suddenly, Yuna recalled the somewhat familiar voice- the young man in the HR department who had given her the hint that Mrs Kim liked expensive chocolates. Yuna frowned as she pushed open the doors of the villa. “So, what of it?”
“I, uh, don’t mean to intrude.” The young man paused. “It’s just that, I handled miss Cho Minjae’s file removal.”
Yuna paused. “You did?”
“Yes.” He replied curtly. “I . . .Uh, can’t speak much on the subject. Like Mrs Kim said, she doesn’t always divulge this kind of information because it’s against protocol.”
“I know, but I haven’t heard from her in three months.” Yuna replied. “I’m concerned for my friend.”
“I know. Mrs Kim told me.” He cleared his throat. “Mr Yu had recommended Miss Cho Minjae to apply for other posts that would better suit her needs.”
Yuna paused for a moment, her mind running a mile a minute. “What . . . what were her needs?”
“Mr Yu said it was something about working from home.” He replied. “He didn’t go into more detail, since we have a company policy to work on site. Mr Yu doesn’t make exceptions.”
“Wow. . . Thank you- uh, I’m sorry, I didn’t catch your name-!” Yuna began, instantly feeling awful for not retaining his name. She was sure it was on his desk.
“Lee Hangyol.” He replied. “But I have one thing to tell you, Kang Yuna.”
Yuna pulled out her cigarette case from her pocket. She was going to need it now, more than ever.
“Mr Yu highly recommended that Miss Cho Minjae apply for a travel writer’s position at Gangnam Life and Living.” Lee Hangyol added. “They’re always looking for good looking young women to write for them. They’re expanding into travel.”
“Thank you, Lee Hangyol. I appreciate your help.” Yuna said. “If you know of anything else, please let me know.”
“Unless you speak to Mr Yu yourself, I don’t think there’s much more to say on the issue. Gangnam Life and Living never called us about Miss Cho Minjae.” Lee Hangyol replied with a sigh.
“Are you sure?” She held her breath.
“I’m in charge of a lot of ex-employees' files. I would be one of the first people to know.” He answered.
Yuna let out a shaky breath.
“Sorry for overstepping . . . But it seems as though you care about Miss Cho Minjae very much.” Lee Hangyol said, his voice low.
“I do.” Yuna replied. “I care for her very much.”
“I’ll keep an eye out for anything of interest,” Lee Hangyol added. “But I doubt there is. I don’t want you to get your hopes high.”
Yuna thanked Lee Hangyol, then they both hung up. Yuna lit up her cigarette, devastated.
Her one lead, her first real lead, and it led to nothing.
Well, not nothing.
In the haze of disappointment and heartache, Yuna tried to line up the facts. Cho Minjae accepted the job offer from Mr Yu, then three days later, she turned it down. She wanted to work from home, which WeiYoppu didn’t allow. When given the chance for a recommendation for another company, she didn’t take it.
What happened? Yuna wished she understood. She wondered if Cho Minjae was hiding herself- why would she? Who was after her?
“Yuna?”
Yuna spun around and saw Minji round the corner of the villa’s walls. Yuna hadn’t even noticed she had wandered so far away.
“Minji-?”
Minji bent over, letting out a ragged breath. Yuna took a long drag of her cigarette and then dropped it. She stepped on the smouldering butt. Before Yuna could touch her shoulder, Minji let out a whimpering cry. She raised her head and her eyes were filled with tears.
“Who were you talking to?” She demanded.
Yuna swallowed hard, then tried to pull Minji into a hug. Suddenly, she pushed her away.
“Minji, it was a work thing, I told you-!” Yuna tried to explain, at a loss for words. Why was Minji crying? Did something happen? What did Yuna do? She tried to piece together the moments before the call, but nothing obvious came to mind. Yuna was just too focussed on the potential caller.
Minji wiped her tears, hiccuping slightly. “I . . . I-!”
“Minji, talk to me. What’s going on? Why the tears?” Yuna asked, approaching Minji once more. This time, Minji did not push her away. Yuna laid her hands on Minji’s small shoulders, which drew her in.
“Yuna, you big dummy!” She wailed. “You big, big, dummy!”
Minji cried harder and Yuna still felt as out of the loop as she did before.
“Come, Minji, let’s talk it out in the room.” Yuna said softly, hoping that the other guests were too busy to overhear Minji.
Minji nodded, her face red and puffy from the tears. Yuna held her hand and led the way back into the villa walls. Minji sniffled the entire walk back, wiping away more tears. Yuna’s heart was sinking low.
Something must have happened and Yuna missed it. She was sure of it. She had been so preoccupied with her search with Cho Minjae that she missed something with Minji.
And it was the worst feeling of it all.
Notes:
I got hit by the server crash while trying post BOTH chapters!!
Please enjoy!!!
Chapter Text
“We need a comprehensive review of the Star Lotus Country Inn. The new owner is trying to get the word out about the updated banquets!”
Minjae laid in bed, her arm over her eyes. Hyera Unnie left for work for the first time in days, which was lucky for Minjae. Her editor asked Minjae to call about the next article.
“I told you, Mrs Choi, I don’t do travel pieces.” Minjae replied.
“I think you’d be great at it! You know we’d pay for your expenses, right? Train ticket or rental car, your room, your food- the works!” Mrs Choi reminded her. Her voice was awfully chipper for nine in the morning.
Minjae was too exhausted to play nice. Her entire body still hummed from her earlier orgasms that Hyera Unnie had given her. Since Hyera Unnie had to wake up early to work, so did Minjae, apparently. She wanted nothing more than to go back to sleep, but that was out of the question.
“I don’t do travel pieces. If there’s a place in Seoul, maybe, but I don't leave the city.” Minjae said with a sigh. She wanted to eat breakfast, maybe shower. She had a long list of things to do and this particular phone call wasn’t on it.
Mrs Choi sighed. “Fine. I’ll hand off the assignment to my other writer, then.”
Minjae lowered her arm, rolling her eyes. It was not the threat Mrs Choi made it out to be.
“So, do you have any assignments for me or should I be looking at my other options?” Minjae asked. She finally sat up, her body worse for wear lately.
“Miss Cho!” Mrs Choi gasped dramatically. “Of course I have assignments for you!”
Minjae threw off the covers and slowly got out of bed. “Then what are they?”
“We need something in the food and drink section. Maybe some recommendations for a day in Seoul? We’ll have the translation team go through it with you.” She offered.
Minjae made an agreeing noise, then slowly slid on her robe. She spotted herself in Hyera Unnie’s full length mirror. Minjae was too pale lately- she needed to get out of the condo. An assignment that got her out and about would do her some good. She tied the sash around the narrow of her waist and headed into the kitchen.
“-There’s also an art museum opening a new wing. Let me get my notes and I’ll let you know the name-!” Mrs Choi continued.
Minjae turned on the electric kettle. Hyera Unnie hadn’t emptied it that morning, thank goodness.
“Tell me more about the art museum.” Minjae said. Writing about art would be a nice change of pace. Lately, it had all been local places to eat and drink and hangout. Art museums were a little out of the ordinary.
“Oh, really? I wasn’t sure you’d be interested in it. I’ll send you the info the director and the publicist sent us, hm?” Mrs Choi replied. “Now, about that piece about the open air market, is it finished?”
“Almost,” Minjae sighed. With Hyera Unnie hanging around, it was hard to get any work done. Whenever Hyera Unnie was bored or tired of working, she’d undress Minjae and tease her endlessly. If it wasn’t with ice cubes, Hyera Unnie would use her fingers and tongue, making sure Minjae never came. “I still need a day or two with it.”
Mrs Choi sighed. “If you weren’t so good, I wouldn’t let this pass, Miss Cho.”
“And I appreciate your patience,” Minjae replied.
“So I’ll see that piece in two days?”
“At the very latest. I’m about to start working on it now.” Minjae lied, thinking of her breakfast options first. Minjae could never write on an empty stomach so early in the day.
After some reassurance, Mrs Choi hung up. Minjae finished her tea and then made herself a quick breakfast. She wolfed it down, then took her time in the shower. Minjae preferred to be clean after Hyera Unnie’s generous wake up calls. It gave her time to reflect, to re-energise. She hadn’t slept well again. In the past few months, her sleep had gotten worse. Not even Hyera Unnie exhausting her would help.
More nightmares, more tossing and turning.
Not even Hyera Unnie holding her still helped.
Minjae turned up the hot water, making sure she washed off every speck of dirt and sweat before turning it off again. Minjae got dressed in a loose dress and panties, leaving behind her silk robe and collar in the bedroom. She entered the spare guest room and pulled out her laptop from hiding.
Since turning down the WeiYoppu job offer, Minjae hadn’t been without work. Instead, she found something else to satisfy her craving to express herself, to pass the time and to make a bit of money on the side. She wrote articles for various websites, some captioning work, too. All under a pseudonym or two.
Minjae didn’t want to think what Hyera Unnie would think of her disobeying indirectly. What she didn’t know, wouldn’t hurt her.
In the corner of the guest bedroom, Minjae plugged in her old laptop and turned it on. She could only work when Hyera Unnie wasn’t around, which was more often than not. Minjae wrote to her heart’s content- as long as the list of things to do were done, how would Hyera Unnie know otherwise?
Minjae finished the article about the open air market and the best dumplings in the neighbourhood, edited it for another hour, then sent it off to Mrs Choi. She read over the information about the art museum, accepted the article offer and then began captioning an educational video for university students.
It wasn’t much, but it was honest work.
It was something that made Minjae hold onto a little bit of happiness.
Happiness outside of Hyera Unnie, anyway. Happiness that would, pushing down unwanted thoughts that would otherwise cloud Minjae’s mind, make the day a little better.
And there was nothing wrong with that, was there?
Notes:
Hello everyone!! I wanted to post longer author's notes last time but the ddos attacks were getting in the way!!
So it's official- Cherry Gold: Side Stories Volume Two is on it's way. It will mostly feature the endgame couple and some spicy scenes. I can't seem to let go these characters yet and it's been half a year!!
Enjoy!! I'll post again on Monday!
Chapter 10: Third Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The first day of a new semester brought a new energy to the air that Hyera could savour more often.
Under the cherry tree, Hyera met up with a classmate. She had forgotten her name already (Hyebin? Subin? Sumin?), but she had dark hair and light eyes. Her hair was similar enough, so she’d do.
She was the closest she’d ever get. For now.
The girl was laughing behind her hand, fluttering her lashes, moving closer. It would almost too easy to bed her, to fuck her and discard her. Hyera wasn’t sure.
Then, she approached them.
A curvy, redheaded freshman, all flustered and Hyera could see the anxiety building in her eyes. She was lost. She was lost and the other girl ran off, scared to miss her first class of the semester.
“You cost me a date,” Hyera said at once.
The girl froze slightly. “I’m sorry!”
She was pretty. Hyera held her by the chin, examining her features. Very pretty. A full chest, thick thighs, a small waist. Her cherry red hair and pretty eyes. . .
“You’re a pretty girl. What’s your name?”
“Cho Minjae! Freshman major in Korean Literature!” She replied.
“Well, you’ll do,” Hyera smirked. How would she react? Would she refuse? Or accept? Hyera was curious. Very, very curious.
She didn’t accept right away. She was blushing, averting her eyes slightly, but daring to meet Hyera’s every once in a while. Like a dare. Suddenly, Hyera wondered if she’d looked prettier under her, naked and in the throes of pleasure.
After the best sex of that poor girl’s life, would Cho Minjae still look as pretty? Or even prettier?
Hyera was determined to find out.
*
Hyera could’ve rolled her eyes at how predictable those boys were, going after a pretty girl on her own. Hyera had seen it happen enough times and never intervened before, but then again, they were never stupid enough to go after Hyera’s choice.
“Did we steal your prey, Oh Hyera?” The stupid boy asked, yanking on poor Cho Minjae’s arm.
Jealousy seethed through Hyera. She wouldn’t let those idiots take Cho Minjae. She was her girl for the night, after all. She kept her distance, figuring out a plan. What could entice the boys to drop Minjae and let her go?
Luckily, Hyera didn’t have to think too hard. Minjae broke into a run, shaking off the grip the boy had on her wrist. She ran and tripped on a root of the cherry tree, falling into Hyera’s arms.
Her eyes were wide and Hyera could feel her body tense in her arms. She was scared. She had been through this before.
“Looks like she made her choice, boys,” Hyera held onto Minjae tight, pulling her against her chest.
She made her choice. So did Hyera.
*
Cho Minjae emerged from the bathroom, wet from the shower. She had a towel wrapped around her curves, barely containing her. Hyera couldn’t help but stare. She dropped her towel, revealing her body- full, round breasts and pink rosebud nipples pebbling in the air conditioned air of the hotel room. She was clean shaven, her thighs pressed together, hiding her sex. Her stomach was flat, her waist narrow. Her hips wide enough to give her curves.
“You’re beautiful,” Hyera said at once.
Exploring Minjae’s body was a treat in itself. She promised not to hold in her voice and she made good on her promise- every one of Hyera’s touches elicited a beautiful moan, a lovely sigh, and a desperate gasp.
“How many times do you want to cum? Hyera asked, her fingers already inside of her. She was so tight and warm, clenching down on her. Hyera wondered if she touched herself at night, if she ever had a long time lover before. She hoped Minjae was lewd, hoped that she’d say a big number.
Hyera teased her, hoping to hear a big number. Massaging her g spot, watching as Minjae grew red and hot, her back arching and her breasts jut forward. She could barely speak and Hyera had just begun.
“Three times!”
Hyera was disappointed. “Not feeling ambitious?”
Making Minjae cum wasn’t difficult. Hyera watched her when she came the first time, her pink lips parted in a loud, desperate moan, her tight pussy clenching hard on her fingers, her wetness spilling onto her palm, on her lap. It was intoxicating. She came so easily, so quickly, like Hyera had commanded her.
Hyera liked that feeling.
She pinned her to the mattress after commanding her to lay down. Hyera kissed her, then let her mouth do the exploring this time. She was anxious to taste her, to feel her from the inside. Hyera wanted to lick her up, to make her cry again and again.
Leaving the mark on her thigh made Hyera feel even more powerful. A lovely little red mark, against the creaminess of Minjae’s inner thigh. And poor Minjae, flushed and eager for more, could only lay there helplessly as Hyera moved on to lick her pussy.
With every lap of her tongue, Minjae moaned. Hyera almost didn’t want to stop- she licked and sucked and fingered Minjae until she heard her scream, until she heard the tears. Her hips were rolling against Hyera’s mouth, the wetness pouring out of her and onto the mattress.
“Hold out this time, Minjae, you cum too easily.” Hyera commanded, leaning over her, rubbing her clit.
Minjae was so beautiful. More beautiful after she came. Her half lidded eyes, her parted pink lips, her flushed cheeks. The way she moaned and squirmed.
“Roll over and show me your ass.” Hyera commanded. She wanted to roll her over herself, but didn’t want to scare the poor girl. Maybe next time. Maybe she could be more forceful, more dominating next time.
There had to be a next time.
Minjae screamed into the pillow, holding on to dear life as Hyera fucked her from behind, her arm sore as she rammed her fingers in and out of her pussy. Her body was trembling, and Hyera was on a high.
She couldn’t get enough. She could do this all day. She wanted to fuck Cho Minjae all day, every day.
She could hear Minjae sob- her arousal leaving a large puddle on the bed, her thighs slick as well. Hyera almost felt bad for the cleaning service if she wasn’t so obsessed with Minjae. She finally relented when Minjae’s voice gave out, then collapsed on the bed.
She was panting, limp almost.
“Good girl. You did well, Minjae,” Hyera praised, kissing the top of her head.
“Th-thank you, Unnie,” Minjae replied. Her voice was thin, hoarse. Hyera smirked.
Once Minjae regained use of her legs, she got dressed and they exchanged numbers.
Hyera kissed Minjae, holding her in her arms. It was almost tender, she realised.
A part of her wanted to push her on the bed, and fuck her three more times.
A part of her wanted to lock the hotel room door, and spend the night with Minjae, forgetting about the world around them, to indulge in the perfection that was Minjae.
A part of Hyera wanted to know if Minjae was capable of returning the favour.
Instead, Hyera let Minjae go. She waited until she was sure Minjae was long gone, then she laid on the bed, slipping her own fingers inside of herself.
What was is that made Minjae so fun to play with? Compared to the other girls?
Hyera didn’t know. All she knew was that she wanted more. She wanted more of Minjae.
She wanted all of her.
Notes:
Hey everyone!!! I changed the number of chapters for Midnight Ice because it turns out I can't count. I'm surprised this hasn't happened earlier haha.
I felt like posting a chapter today. I want to get into Hyera's POV so I can brainstorm for her side story collection. I already have the perfect name for it, but I'm gonna wait until I have a draft of the stories before telling y'all the name.
Enjoy!!
Chapter 11: Chapter Seven: Great Expectations
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The car ride home was quiet.
Too quiet.
Minji had fallen asleep not long after returning to their room the night before, leaving Yuna alone with her thoughts. She couldn’t think of a reason why Minji would be so upset- at least none that weren’t ridiculous.
Then, in the morning, they packed up their things, left the villa and began their long drive back to their apartment in Seoul. Minji stayed quiet. Yuna assumed she had fallen asleep again, but no, she was just staring out the window.
“Minji, please,” Yuna began. The drive was long enough as it was, it didn’t need to feel any longer, too. “Talk to me. Directly. What’s going on?”
There was a pause. Yuna glanced over at Minji to see that she was facing forward now.
“I . . . I thought this weekend would end differently.” Minji began.
Yuna frowned. “What do you-?”
Then it hit her.
She had been hinting all along, hasn’t she?
“Minji,” Yuna started but wasn’t sure if she wanted to finish her sentence.
Minji let out a little sob. “I thought you were going to propose!”
Yuna wanted to hang her head but instead, kept her eyes on the road. Her face was growing hot. Minji was right! She was a big dummy!
“Minji, I’m sorry, I-!”
“I thought . . . I don’t know what I was thinking-!” Minji covered her face, crying into her hands.
That well of guilt built up inside of Yuna once more.
“And that phone call?” Minji continued, her tone a little more angry than disappointed. “And your weird behaviour?”
“Minji, let me explain,” Yuna said, trying to remain both calm and a good driver. She was on the highway- there was no way she could pull over and comfort Minji right now.
Minji sniffled loudly. “Go on, explain.”
Yuna let out a shaky breath. “I had no idea you wanted me to propose this weekend, Minji.”
“You didn’t??” Minji replied. “But-!”
“I’ve been. . . I’ve been thinking of other things,” Yuna admitted.
A part of her wanted to tell Minji about her search. She’d understand, wouldn’t she? Yes, Cho Minjae was her ex girlfriend and the two of them weren’t friends. They were barely friendly. But Minji was a kind soul, and Yuna could count on her.
Then again, it would be cruel of Yuna to ask Minji for her help to find Cho Minjae when Yuna still loved her.
And there was no guarantee if . . .
If . . .
Yuna hated herself for even thinking it.
If Cho Minjae wanted her back, Yuna would give it all up for her.
“And I never pieced it together.” Yuna added.
Minji sniffed again. “I should have known.”
Yuna didn’t reply.
“But Yuna,” Minji began slowly. “Tell me what’s on your mind. I know that wasn’t a work call. Please . . .”
Yuna glanced over at Minji, who reached over and placed her hand on Yuna’s thigh.
“I . . . You’re right. That wasn’t a work call.” Yuna replied.
“Then who was it from?” Minji asked, her voice quiet and low.
“It was from a coworker, though. He had some information to give me.” Yuna continued. She bit her lip, trying to form the right sentence with the right words to lessen the blow. “You see, Minji, I’m looking for Cho Minjae.”
“Cho Minjae??” Minji nearly shouted, pulling her hand from Yuna’s thigh. “Why??”
Yuna swallowed hard. “I . . . I can’t find her.”
“She left our lives five years ago, Yuna!” Minji said at once. “She . . . She broke up with you! Why are you looking for her?”
Yuna gripped the steering wheel. “She showed up at my work, Minji. She was going to work there but then she fell off of the earth. I have no idea where she is.”
There was another silence between them.
Yuna didn’t think this conversation would go well. Not after Minji’s expectations of what the weekend would be. Her heart ached at the thought of hurting Minji. Minji was her best friend, her lover, and everything in between. She was there when Yuna was in her deepest pit of despair, even when Yuna wasn’t there for her when her life fell apart five years ago.
Yuna didn’t deserve Minji’s love. She knew that.
“So why do you care?” Minji asked at last.
“I . . . I care for Cho Minjae.” Yuna admitted. “I’m worried for her.”
Minji sat there. Yuna glanced over again and more shame shrouded her. Yuna wanted to say something, anything, but no words came out.
Minji didn’t speak, either.
*
Once Siwoo and Woong were picked up from the kennel, Yuna returned the rental car on her own. Minji wanted to stay behind and spoil the dogs, so Yuna didn’t force the subject.
The train ride home was long, too. Yuna couldn’t believe how stupid she was. Her mind replayed every hint over and over again- Minji talking about rings, getting away for the weekend, the planning of their getaway, the disappointment on her face at the end of the hike . . . It was so obvious!
And to bring up Cho Minjae was just rubbing salt to her wound.
Yuna picked up Minji’s favourite dishes from the auntie’s deli on the way home, including her favourite snacks from the corner store and her favourite beer. She had to make it up to her.
Minji accepted the food, but it was an icy reception. Yuna did the tidying up and the unpacking as Minji played with the dogs, then, once the evening came, Minji went to bed early, not even wanting to stay up to watch her favourite show.
The next few days were much of the same. Yuna did her best to appease Minji, who spoke more and more as the days went by, but the hurt from the weekend was still in her eyes, piercing Yuna with every gaze. Yuna cooked Minji’s favourites, did the chores and even made Minji’s packed lunches with a love note or two.
She saw Minji smile out of the corner of her eye, when Minji thought she wasn’t looking.
Then, while watching the backlog of episodes of Secret Song, Minji grabbed Yuna’s hand when her favourite couple finally kissed.
Yuna smiled to herself, hoping that maybe, just maybe, Minji would forgive her.
*
“Kang Yuna, we have to talk!” Minji declared.
Yuna glanced up from her morning coffee and her phone. It was the saturday after their weekend getaway and after days of barely speaking to now full blown conversations, it was finally time to address the awkwardness of the weekend past.
“Go ahead,” Yuna sipped her coffee.
“I can forgive you for not proposing.” Minji said at once, sitting across from Yuna. “I don’t mind waiting a little longer for that, since we’re living together.”
Yuna nodded. She didn’t even want to broach the subject of the proposal with Minji. Yuna was so far from ready, she didn’t even know where all of her feelings lay currently. Maybe two years ago, she would have given it more thought, but now?
Now was a different story.
“But I. . . I know Cho Minjae was special to you.” Minji said with a sigh. “And I know she broke up with you because of me.”
“I’ve been giving it some thought.” Yuna began. “I think there was a lot more to the situation than we think. I don’t think it was because you kissed me. At least, it’s not just that.”
Minji’s eyes widened. “What do you mean?”
“Cho Minjae . . . She had a lot of secrets.” Yuna added, glancing down at her half empty coffee mug. She could see herself in the reflection. “And I don’t think she told anyone about them.”
“And when you said you couldn’t find her, do you think she ran away from something? Or someone?” Minji asked.
Yuna shrugged. At this point, she had no idea. Yuna didn’t quite believe Minjae about her step father being too strict to live with, but she never met the man. The reputations of strict step fathers didn’t help his cause. What if Minjae was trying to escape him again? Or perhaps, was it a lie for someone else? Minjae had mentioned she had a lover, who she loved more than love itself. Could this person be the culprit?
“Are you . . . Are you worried for her safety?” Minji asked, breaking the silence between them.
“I am.” Yuna admitted out loud for the first time. “I have no idea where she is or who she's with. I . . .-”
Yuna felt tears prickle her eyes. She tried to blink them away, but they would not subside. Yuna couldn’t help but worry. She couldn’t help but carry this torch in her heart, threatening to ruin everything. Yuna loved Minjae, back then and even now. What if she had gotten hurt? Or was in a bad situation?
What if Yuna had the chance to help her, three months ago, and missed it?
What if it was all a cry for help?
Yuna wiped away her tears.
“Yuna!” Minji rounded the table and pulled her against her chest in a tight hug. “Yuna, don’t cry! I’ll cry! Yuna!”
Minji gave a weak sniffle and Yuna couldn’t help herself. She hugged Minji, too.
“I’ll help you find Cho Minjae!” Minji promised. “I’ll help you!”
Yuna glanced up at Minji. “How? How are we going to find her?”
Minji wiped her eyes and took a step back. She had that determined look on her face that told Yuna everything- when Minji put her mind to something, she accomplished it. No matter the task.
“I’m going to ask the person who knows everyone!” Minji declared. “Oh Hyera! She was friends with everyone! I bet she knew someone who knew Cho Minjae, right? Or maybe they were friends?”
Yuna wiped her cheek of a stray tear. “But they didn’t know each other until I introduced them.”
Minji shrugged. “It’s worth a try! I bet Hyera could help us!”
“I don’t know . . .” Yuna’s stomach tightened at the thought of asking Oh Hyera for a favour. She avoided talking to her since she stopped seeing the girls Hyera would push on her. Whenever they got together, it was nothing but alcohol and girls and bad decisions.
“She’s my good friend, I trust her!” Minji replied, her earnestness was almost contagious. “I’ll text her, okay? I bet she’ll find something out!”
Yuna watched Minji’s hopeful expression. Maybe Minji was right. Maybe Oh Hyera could help.
“Then I’ll leave it to you?” Yuna asked with a small smile.
Minji nodded. “We’ll find Cho Minjae in no time, okay?”
Yuna agreed. She finished her coffee as Minji went to make herself a cup.
Perhaps the last thing she ought to be doing was looking for Cho Minjae. Maybe it was all a bad idea, an impulsive thought to be locked away. It was Minji that Yuna ought to be concerned with- her best friend and lover of these many years. No one else should compare.
Yet, the idea of finding Cho Minjae filled Yuna with hope.
Notes:
Hello everyone!! How are we doing post BTD?? I'm trying to find a gl manhwa to get into, but not much is catching my eye. I've been reading some great sapphic novels lately, though!!
For this chapter, it's more of Yuna being a bad girlfriend, unfortunately. However, with the search growing closer to Hyera . . . Let's just say, chap. 9 was a fun chapter to write for me.
Enjoy!! Next chapter is on saturday!!
Chapter 12: Chapter Eight: Never Enough
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Minjae rested her head against Hyera Unnie’s shoulder, fighting off sleep.
“Unnie,” Minjae began, resting her arm across Hyera’s stomach.
“Enjoyed yourself?” Hyera Unnie asked, pulling Minjae closer.
“I always do, Unnie,” Minjae glanced up at her, her heart still pounding.
Naked and exhausted, Minjae didn’t want to fall asleep and waste the morning. Hyera Unnie would leave soon enough for work and it would give Minjae the time she needed to go to the art museum for her assignment. However, the ache between her legs was growing and the heaviness of her eyelids were more powerful, it seemed.
Hyera Unnie pulled Minjae close, then under her. Minjae closed her eyes as Hyera Unnie kissed her neck. Minjae’s arousal didn’t even have time to cool down, and she let out a moan, reaching up to pull Hyera against her.
“You want more, don’t you?” Hyera Unnie muttered into her ear.
“I do, Unnie,” Minjae replied, opening her legs.
Hyera scoffed. “I should stay home today and fuck you all day long. Would you like that, Minjae?”
Before Minjae could reply, Hyera Unnie slid her fingers between her thighs. Minjae let out a deep moan.
“You’re so wet,” Hyera Unnie kissed Minjae’s throat again, leading downwards. “You never tire of cumming, do you?”
“Ha-! No-!” Minjae moaned, rolling her hips as she held onto Hyera. “Never-!”
Minjae savoured the pleasure- Hyera pumped her fingers, her hand, hard and fast, bringing Minjae closer and closer to another orgasm. She raised her hips but Hyera pushed them down, nipping at her collarbone.
“So eager,” Hyera Unnie said, smirking. “If you really want to cum, flip over, Minjae.”
Hyera sat between Minjae legs, then pulled her fingers out of her. Minjae groaned, but obeyed willingly.
“You’re going to fuck me from behind, Unnie?” Minjae asked once she was on her hands and knees, making sure her ass was against Hyera’s hips.
“Would you rather I paddle you?” Hyera asked, one hand on Minjae’s hips and the other parting her legs.
“No, Unnie.” Minjae glanced over at her. Her anticipation, her desperation, was growing stronger.
Just one more time, then she’d move on with the day.
Minjae cried out when she felt Hyera’s fingers inside of her, deep and full. Her hand was pumping hard, working Minjae until her core ached with numbness. Minjae cried out as she neared her orgasm, her heart beating so hard she was sure it would explode. She moved her hips with Hyera’s rhythm, hoping to bring her closer and closer to climax.
“Cum for me, Minjae,” Hyera commanded. “I want you to cum, right now.”
Minjae let out another cry and with a few more pumps, she was cumming. Her core was so wonderfully numb and so intense, she felt the wetness go down her thighs, the squelching of Hyera’s fingers still inside of her.
“Ha-! Ha-! Unnie!” Minjae called out. “Don’t stop-!”
She didn’t want it to stop. It was too good. Too amazing. Minjae pushed harder on Hyera’s hand, her ass hitting Hyera’s hips.
“You like getting fucked like this, don’t you?” Hyera asked. She grabbed the back of Minjae’s head and pushed it down on the mattress, lifting Minjae’s ass in the air.
The same wonderful sensation amplified. Minjae cried into the mattress as another orgasm began to build up inside of her.
“Good girl,” Hyera praised, reaching around and grabbing Minjae’s breast. Her fingers pinched her nipple hard, making her cry out even more. “Cum for me again, Minjae.”
“Unnie-!” Minjae could barely stand it. Her entire body was hot, overflowing with arousal, with pleasure. Hyera’s fingers were deep inside, plunging in and out, hard and fast.
It was too much, but so good. Too good.
“Ha-! Ha-!” Minjae kept crying out.
“Don’t hold back, Minjae,” Hyera slid in another finger. “Will this help? A fourth finger?”
Minjae cried out louder this time. Four was too tight. Hyera’s fingers filled her up, making the sensation worse. She could hardly breathe, let alone focus on cumming.
“Or maybe this?” Hyera let go of Minjae’s breast and reached for her clit instead.
The effect was nearly instantaneous. Minjae’s core tightened, clenching down on Hyera’s fingers as the numbing sensation returned so deliciously. She was shaking all over, too hot to withstand another orgasm, but it came anyway.
“Good girl, Minjae. Cum for me.” Hyera muttered, quickening her pace.
Tears were flowing from Minjae now. She could feel her thighs become slick, her muscles loose and relaxed. When Hyera finally let her go, Minjae fell onto her back, trying to catch her breath.
“Look at how lovely you are, Minjae,” Hyera said, still sitting between Minjae’s open legs.
“Unnie . . . That was amazing!” Minjae said, panting slightly.
“Aren’t you lucky?” Hyera smiled. She lowered herself between Minjae’s thighs. “You’re so lucky, because I want to lick you, Minjae. I want to lick you all day long.”
“Unnie-!” Minjae began, trying to sit up but Hyera’s mouth had latched onto her clit as her fingers pushed inside. She let out another moan, sinking into the mattress under her. “Unnie- Please-! Ha-!”
It was useless. When Hyera Unnie wanted to have her, Minjae couldn't stop her. As Hyera Unnie sucked hard on her clit, all she could see were the sparks behind her eyelids, her body falling victim to Hyera’s skilled fingers and mouth.
Hyera Unnie’s tongue pushed inside Minjae’s aching pussy after another tear inducing, body shaking orgasm. Minjae didn’t have the energy to even think of pushing her away. Instead, she laid there, moaning as Hyera Unnie licked her up.
Minjae only assumed at that point that she wasn’t leaving the bed that day.
*
By the time Hyera Unnie left for work, Minjae was too exhausted to go out. She had fallen asleep once Hyera Unnie finished licking her up, then showered and ate an early lunch. Minjae worked in the guest room for a bit, but not very long, since Hyera Unnie came back home in time for supper.
“How is my Minjae?” Hyera Unnie asked, pulling Minjae into an embrace. “Not too sore from this morning?”
“Only a little bit, Unnie,” Minjae replied. She was a bit sore after Hyera Unnie had nearly jammed her whole hand inside of her. “You’re not very gentle with me.”
Hyera smirked, cupping Minjae’s face. “I just want you to feel good, Minjae,” she replied. “And didn’t it feel good?”
“It did, Unnie.” Minjae closed her eyes as Hyera kissed her. “You always fuck me so good.”
Hyera scoffed, then kissed her again. This time, a little slower, but with more tongue. Minjae tried to hold back a moan, but Hyera pulled her in closer.
“Do you want to be fucked again, Minjae?” Hyera asked, pulling open Minjae’s robe to reveal her bare breasts.
“Again?” Minjae repeated. “I don’t know-!”
“Don’t say that, Minjae,” Hyera cupped Minjae’s breast with one hand and then reached between Minjae’s legs. “I know you’re wet for me.”
Minjae gasped when Hyera Unnie pushed her fingers inside of her quickly.
“Unnie-!”
“See?” Hyera Unnie held up her glistening finger to Minjae. “You’re wet for me. Your body can’t help it.”
Minjae blushed, glancing away slightly. “I . . .”
“I’ll fuck you and then I’ll order some food, how does that sound, Minjae?” Hyera cupped Minjae’s face again, but brought up the wet finger to her lips.
Minjae parted her lips, taking in Hyera’s fingers. She cleaned it up, making sure her juices were gone.
“Good girl,” Hyera Unnie praised.
Hyera took Minjae’s hand, leading her to the bedroom. Once the door was closed, Hyera took off Minjae’s robe and tossed it aside. She tossed aside Minjae’s panties, too.
“Get on your hands and knees, on the bed, Minjae.” Hyera instructed.
Minjae’s heart began to race. She obeyed, but she felt uneasy. She turned to see that Hyera Unnie was undressing save for her bra and panties. She pulled out a harness with the black dildo attached to it.
“Unnie-!” Minjae began as she felt Hyera grab her hips and pull her ass against her stomach.
“If you want to cum, Minjae,” Hyera began. “You’ll have to move your hips. Do you understand?”
“What-?”
When Hyera pushed the tip of the thick dildo inside of her, Minjae moaned loudly. However, Hyera did not roll her hips, or thrust.
“Go on, if you want to cum, show me how bad you want it,” Hyera Unnie said, her hands planted on Minjae’s hips.
Minjae eased herself into it. She pushed against the dildo, back and forth, nice and slow. She didn’t want to go too fast yet. Minjae let out a whimper, then a cry as she went a little faster.
“There you go,” Hyera Unnie guided Minjae’s hips down on the dildo. “Don’t be shy, Minjae. I know you love to cum. Make yourself cum.”
“Ha-!” Minjae quickened her pace, her core tightening a little more as she did. She was feeling the ache in her knees and hands and elbows- it wasn’t an easy position by any means. Instead, Minjae ignored it and focussed on her own pleasure.
“Harder, Minjae.” Hyera Unnie slapped Minjae’s ass hard and fast.
The sharp pain helped. Minjae pushed harder, her ass bouncing off of the harness, off of Hyera Unnie’s lower stomach. She wasn’t there yet. She needed a little bit more-!
“Unnie-!” Minjae cried out, slowing down. “I can’t-!”
“You can’t cum?” Hyera replied, astonished. “Then we’ll try something else.”
Minjae nearly collapsed on the bed, but kept herself on her hands and knees as she watched Hyera sit on her side of the bed. The pillows were behind her, comforting her back against the iron wrought headboard. The phallus stood erect between her thighs.
“Come and sit on me, Minjae,” Hyera instructed. “I want to see your face when you cum.”
Minjae nodded. She got on Hyera Unnie’s lap and lowered herself on the dildo. It slid inside, snug against her walls. She moaned, then placed her hands on the headboard. Slowly, she rose and lowered her hips, trying to recapture that fleeting moment she had felt before, when she was almost ready to cum.
As Minjae bounced on the Hyera’s lap, Hyera pressed her mouth against Minjae’s breast, nibbling and sucking.
“Ha-!”
Her core tightened at once, then she nearly cried when Hyera’s fingers found her clit, applying a hard, constant pressure. Minjae rode harder, glancing down at Hyera as she rubbed her clit and sucked her breast. Her eyes became hazy, glazed over with tears as she grew numb, and closer and closer to orgasm.
When Minjae did cum, she burst into tears. Hyera pushed her down onto the mattress and began pumping her hips.
“Unnie-!” Minjae cried out, clinging onto Hyera Unnie for dear life. She was seeing stars now, unable to think any other thoughts.
Hyera Unnie threw Minjae’s leg over her shoulder, pushing deeper inside of her while rubbing her clit. Minjae was sobbing now, riding the high of the most intense orgasm she had in ages. She arched her back, rolling her hips with Hyera’s rhythm. It was so wonderful, so amazing, Minjae nearly forgot that she hadn’t accomplished anything she wanted to do.
But it was worth it.
When Hyera Unnie finally pulled away, panting heavily, she removed the harness and left it in the bathroom to clean for later. She ordered the food and then left to shower. Minjae laid there, naked, exhausted and letting the endorphins wash through her, like a lazy wave.
It was worth it, right?
After all, it was where she belonged.
Notes:
Hey everyone!! How's a nice spicy chapter to start your weekend with??
Things have been busy on my end. I'd have more time to write if I didn't have to share a laptop with my partner- we've been sharing laptops since quarantine but only now does it interfere with my writing. I should just bite the bullet and buy myself a new one, huh? Writing for Vol 2 of the side stories is going nice and slow. I don't want to rush it and put out crap. I feel like I'm rushing it, but I literally write twice a week now so how could I?? Oh well. There'll be a lot more editing before I publish, that's all.
Enjoy the chapter!!
Chapter 13: Fourth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Hyera took Minji to an expensive boutique after class. It was a short train ride, but it felt long as Minji rambled on about what kind of boy she’d like to date. Kang Yuna tagged along, looking sullen. Hyera couldn’t help but laugh. As Minji ooh’d and aww’d over the pretty dresses, Hyera sidled up to Yuna.
“You didn’t have to come, you know,” Hyera said, watching Yuna go through a clothes rack of black mini skirts. “You look as if you’d rather be sent to slaughter.”
Yuna frowned. “I’m making sure Minji doesn’t get ahead of herself.” She walked away from the rack and towards the shoes.
“You think she’ll try to spend all of my money?” Hyera asked, holding up a white flat top sneaker. Yuna shook her head. “My father is paying for this, Yuna. Don’t you worry. Would you like something pretty, too?”
Yuna glared at her. “I’m good.”
“It’s been a while since you’ve had a good date, Yuna.” Hyera muttered. “Shall we go to the bar tomorrow? While Minji goes on her date? I’ll find you a nice girl.”
“No, I’m going to study.” Yuna replied curtly.
Minji emerged from the changing room in a pale green sundress. It was a little too long, a little too loose. “Ta-dah! What do you think!?”
“Green is your colour, Minji!’” Hyera exclaimed. “But not this silhouette! Let’s find something else!”
Minji nodded, then glanced over at Yuna. “What do you think, Yuna?”
“It looks nice.” Yuna replied, blushing.
Minji returned to the changing room. Hyera scoffed.
“You and I both know you’re not going to study a single bit, Yuna.” Hyera said at once. Yuna didn’t reply. Instead, she walked away, off to admire the jewellery by the register. “Might as well have fun.”
As Minji continued to try on every other green or pale blue sundress that Hyera found for her, Hyera also shopped for herself. She found a tight fitting red dress and some heels. She even tried them on to see what kind of reaction Yuna would have, but she agreed it was a nice dress, looking away quickly.
Minji finally picked a dress, a bag and a pair of sensible shoes for her group date outfit. Hyera paid for it, along with her own selection. Yuna watched, arms crossed, from a distance.
“You know,” Hyera leaned into Yuna’s ear when they were on the crowded train ride back to the university station. Minji was sitting with the bags, looking sleepy as Hyera and Yuna stood not too far away, with a sea of people between them. “I met a freshman, I think you’d like her.”
Yuna gave Hyera a dark look. “Why do you keep trying to set me up?”
Hyera shrugged. “Because obviously you’re out of luck in the love department.”
“Why? Because I sleep around?”
“No, because you sleep around to avoid talking about your feelings.” Hyera added, glancing over at Minji. Yuna glanced over, too. “And I don’t blame you. She’s painfully not interested in other women. She told me herself.”
Yuna’s eyes widened. “What?”
Hyera nodded wisely. “You know, dreams are just that- dreams. They don’t mean anything.”
“She told you, didn’t she?” Yuna groaned.
“Minji is my very good friend.” Hyera replied. “And so are you, Yuna. It pains me that a black haired beauty like you can’t get a girlfriend.”
“I don’t need a girlfriend right now, Hyera.” Yuna said. “And even if I did, I wouldn't need your help.”
Hyera shrugged, feigning nonchalance. Yuna moved past the couple that got between them and Minji, then stood next to her. Minji immediately broke into a wide smile and lent Yuna her earphone. Hyera pursed her lips.
If Yuna was truly set on Kim Minji, and accepted no substitutes, then Hyera would have to work harder.
Yuna, under no circumstances, should be with Kim Minji. Not like this.
And if Hyera couldn’t have Kang Yuna, she’d have to find the next best thing.
Notes:
Hey everyone!! Surprise chapter!
I felt like posting another chapter this weekend. It's become a habit to post multiple chapters per weekend now haha.
Please enjoy!! Comments are always appreciated!!
Chapter 14: Fifth Intermission
Chapter Text
“This is my new boyfriend!” Minji gestured to the tall boy next to her.
Two weeks into the new semester and there were already results. Hyera was almost impressed that Minji moved so quickly and even invited her for a cold drink to show off said new boyfriend. Then again. She was a pretty girl who wasn’t very smart. It wouldn’t be hard for her to find a nice, dumb boy to shack up with.
Hyera raised an eyebrow and smiled kindly. “Hello.”
He smiled nervously, bowing his head slightly. “Hello. I’m Han Jihoon and I’m twenty.”
And he didn’t look like the brightest, either.
“I’m Oh Hyera and I’m twenty one. That makes me your seonbae,” Hyera said at once. She glanced over at Minji. “So, I see that the group date was successful?”
Minji blushed and nodded. “It went very well!”
Han Jihoon nodded shyly as well.
“I’m happy for you, Minji. I told you it would go well.” Hyera said, clapping her hands together. She turned to Han Jihoon, who sipped his iced latte. “And you, Han Jihoon, I hope you treat Minji well! Don’t go breaking her heart!”
She wanted to sound playful, but she made sure her expression leant itself to something darker.
“Of course not! I’ll take good care of Minji Seonbae!” Han Jihoon replied nervously.
“Is she not your Noona?” Hyera asked, raising an eyebrow.
Han Jihoon blushed furiously, making Hyera laugh.
“Noona?” Minji repeated. “We just started dating-!”
“And don’t you care for him? Would you rather call him Oppa?” Hyera asked, chuckling.
Watching those two together, bumbling around, would be interesting enough. It would keep Kim Minji away from Yuna, that was for sure.
Chapter 15: Chapter Nine: Confession
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Meet me at the bar. I’ll tell you what I know -OH
Yuna took the final drag of her cigarette, inhaling then exhaling the acrid smoke. She dropped it and stepped on the butt. Out of habit, she picked up the discarded butt and threw it away. If only more public places had cigarette receptacles.
After work, Yuna headed straight to the bar that Oh Hyera had sent her the directions for. It was way out of her way home, but Yuna couldn’t miss this chance. She had texted Minji that she’d be home late, but nothing else.
Her heart was tight in her chest, as if she was holding back from getting her hopes too high. After all, this was Oh Hyera. Yuna knew better than to rely on her. For all Yuna knew, this was just going to be some worthless chit chat. Yet her body reacted differently. She couldn’t concentrate all day, she couldn’t think of anything else.
Minji had wanted to come along with her to meet Oh Hyera, but Yuna couldn’t let her. Minji had texted Hyera, it was nearly ten days later they heard a reply. Yuna needed to hear it, by herself. She needed to process whatever Oh Hyera would tell her, even if it meant nothing. Even if it was a dead end.
Yuna entered the bar. It was crowded with office workers- young and old- gathering around their tables, eating and drinking. Some were laughing and talking, some were just enjoying their drinks. Some were alone, some were with a partner. The bar hummed, not too loud, not too quiet. Yuna wondered why Hyera had chosen this bar out of all of the others.
Oh Hyera, on the other hand, was at the bar, sipping a fruity cocktail. Yuna recalled the first time they met, all those years ago. Hyera was dressed in a light grey pencil skirt that seemed far too tight, and a white blouse with a button or two undone to reveal the slope of her breasts.
“Took you long enough,” Hyera greeted with that smile. “I ordered you a beer, I hope that’s okay.”
Yuna nodded. She sat next to Hyera, uneasiness creeping in.
“Long day at work, Yuna?” Hyera asked as Yuna was being served. The bartender even popped off the cap for her and poured it out in a glass.
“What did Minji tell you?” Yuna asked. She wasn’t in the mood for small talk. Not today.
“Ah, always so direct with you, Kang Yuna!” Hyera bemoaned. “Can’t a friend catch up and chit chat before getting into the subject of the day?”
Yuna sipped her beer. “I’ve been looking for Cho Minjae for a long time, Hyera. I just want answers.”
“And maybe,” Hyera leaned on the bar counter with her elbow, her rose hair cascading off of her shoulder. “I want to know why you’re so obsessed with an ex-girlfriend who dumped you when you already have Kim Minji by your side?”
Yuna didn’t reply. She knew that Hyera would find it all so suspicious. Unlike Minji, who assumed the best in people, Hyera would assume the worst.
“Hmm, so interesting.” Hyera smirked. She sat up straight and finished off her drink, then slid the empty glass towards the bartender.
“Just tell me what Minji told you.” Yuna repeated.
Hyera sighed. “Minji told me that you’re looking for Cho Minjae. Apparently, she’s gone missing?”
“Minji said you know a lot of people,” Yuna added. “Maybe you know someone who knows her?”
Hyera smiled to herself, then thanked the bartender as he handed her a new drink.
“You could say that,” Hyera replied. “But I’m just so curious about your intentions, dear Kang Yuna. Minji is my good friend!”
Yuna bit the inside of her mouth.
“And if you break her heart because of me divulging some . . . hmm, how should I put it? Top secret information, then I could never forgive myself!” Hyera continued, her tone still as dramatic.
Oh Hyera was always the same.
“What do you know, then?” Yuna asked.
“Tell me your intentions.” Hyera repeated. “Why are you looking for Cho Minjae when she doesn’t want to be found?”
Yuna stared at Hyera, trying to remain neutral but she couldn’t. “What do you mean she doesn’t want to be found?”
Hyera smirked, sipping her drink. “You’re in no place to bargain, Yuna.”
Clenching her fist, Yuna lowered her glass slowly. “I think . . . I think I still have feelings for her.”
“Oh? You do? After all of these years?” Hyera asked, raising a perfectly plucked eyebrow. “How interesting!”
“Our relationship ended too abruptly,” Yuna continued. “I need closure. I need to talk to her again.”
“But what about Kim Minji? You know, she’s quite upset you didn’t propose.” Hyera added.
Yuna wanted to smack that smirk off of her face so bad. Why was she so cocky? What did she know? Or was she revelling in the fact that she had asked her a favour for the first time in years?
“I know.”
“But it all makes sense now, doesn’t it?” Hyera sipped her drink, then gestured for Yuna to do the same. “You won’t propose to Minji because you’re still in love with Cho Minjae.”
Yuna drank from her glass. She didn’t want to admit it, but it was true. She couldn’t commit to Minji. Not yet. Not until she figured herself out with Cho Minjae.
“But why Cho Minjae? The girl who broke Kang Yuna’s icy, cold heart?” Hyera pressed a thin finger to Yuna’s chest for a brief moment. “The sweet, beautiful girl who wasn’t so sweet after all?”
Yuna frowned. She resisted the urge to pull away. “What are you talking about?”
Hyera chuckled behind her hand. Slowly, she gestured for Yuna to lean in closer. Yuna swallowed hard, but she leaned in. Hyera did as well. Her sweet, warm breath was against Yuna’s ear. Hyera smelled of flowers, of . . . of hibiscus?
Yuna’s heart sank suddenly.
“Cho Minjae was never in love with you, Kang Yuna. She was mine all along.” Hyera muttered. “I was her lover since she began university. I was fucking her the entire time. Even as you dated her, she was mine. In heart and body. She broke up with you, then came crawling into my arms. She’s in my bed, right now.”
Yuna sat there, eyes wide.
“Do you need proof, Kang Yuna?” Hyera asked playfully. “I have photos. So many photos- my Minjae loves it when I take photos of her, especially after sex.”
Yuna pulled away, her hands balled up.
“You're lying.” Yuna said at once. “You’re lying!”
Hyera sat there, sipping her drink and smirking. She pulled out her phone, tapped and swiped the screen a few times, then held it up for her.
It was Cho Minjae, fast asleep with a blanket up to her shoulders. The same cherry red braid was on the pillow, half undone.
“Is this enough proof?” Hyera asked, swiping the screen. The next photo was of Cho Minjae with Hyera, both dressed up in pretty dresses, arm in arm. The next photo was Hyera kissing Minjae’s cheek. The next photo was Minjae and a cake, blowing out a candle. Next was at a beach, in bikinis and soaking up the sun.
Each and every photo cemented the worst case scenario.
Minjae, happy. Minjae, with Hyera. Minjae, in love with someone else the whole entire time.
Yuna wanted to yell. She wanted to run away. She wanted to slap Hyera, she wanted to throw her glass. She was bubbling over. She was angry. Hurt. Betrayed.
But she sat there, still as a rod.
“I’m sorry you had to find out this way, Yuna.” Hyera began. She stood up and paid the tab with a tap of her card. She placed her hand on Yuna’s shoulder. “But if you kept your nose where it belonged, maybe you could have been ignorant of my Minjae’s true nature.”
Yuna shrugged off Hyera’s hand but Hyera leaned in anyways.
“My Minjae’s a bit sex crazed. Maybe it would be better to share her, hmm? Do you still want to fuck her, Yuna? Help me satisfy her?”
“Fuck off,” Yuna spat out.
“I guess that’s a no!” Hyera replied cheerfully. “Well, see you around!”
Yuna sat on the stool, trying to gather herself.
Hyera had to be lying.
She had to be.
Minjae wasn’t like that . . . There was no way . . . Why would she? What did she have to gain in seducing her? In having them both?
There was so much Yuna didn’t understand.
Notes:
The truth is out!!!!
I've been dying to write this chapter and post it for ages!! Yuna knows, to an extent, about Hyera and Minjae. I do love writing cocky, confident Hyera. She's about to enter her Peak Villain Era and it'll be a treat for everyone who loves a good, toxic Hyera.
Enjoy!!!
Chapter 16: Chapter Ten: Far Away
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“Minjae? Are you awake?”
Minjae opened her eyes- the room was still dark and she was sure she had just fallen asleep. Hyera Unnie was in the bed next to her- she smelled of alcohol and something floral.
“Hm?” Minjae rolled over, rubbing her eye as she did. “Unnie?”
“Come here, Minjae,” Hyera threw off the blanket and pulled Minjae close.
Before Minjae could say another word, Hyera planted her mouth on Minjae’s as she climbed over her. Minjae wrapped her arms around Hyera, surprised to feel that she was still wearing her work clothes. Hyera, on the other hand, ran her hands all over Minjae’s naked body, feeling her smooth, soft skin.
“Were you dreaming of me?” Hyera muttered, leaning into Minjae’s ear as she slid her hand between her legs.
“Ha-! Unnie, what are you-?” Minjae moaned as Hyera rubbed her clit.
“I want you, Minjae. I want to feel you.” Hyera said. “Because you’re all mine.”
Minjae could see Hyera in the semi darkness of the room, only the light of the hallway illuminated them. Hyera’s fingers worked their magic, waking Minjae from her short lived sleep. She parted her legs wider, which made Hyera smirk.
“Good girl.” Hyera praised. “Tell me, Minjae, do you love your Unnie?”
Hyera’s fingers slid inside of her now and Minjae let out a gasp, arching her back.
“Yes-! I love you, Unnie!” Minjae called out, half moaning.
“And who do you love the most?” Hyera asked, her fingers curling up and massaging her g spot now.
Minjae let out a loud moan, feeling her body tremble. “You, Unnie-!”
Minjae could barely think as Hyera fingered her, taking her time, then quickening her pace, then slowing down again. It was as if she didn’t want her to cum, at least, not yet. She wanted to see Minjae in the throes of pleasure, but Minjae didn’t mind.
She just didn’t understand why right now.
“Say it again, Minjae. I want to hear you shout it,” Hyera instructed, quickening her pumps once more.
“Ha-!” Minjae cried out, grasping the sheet under her. “Ha-!”
“Say it, Minjae,” Hyera pulled away, leaving Minjae to whimper.
“Unnie . . . I love you.” Minjae said, half moaning. She hated it when Hyera teased her so horribly.
“You do, don’t you?” Hyera leaned in and kissed Minjae, nice and slow. Minjae couldn’t help herself- she was aroused now, her body aching for Hyera Unnie. Her tongue dipped past Minjae’s lips, flicking against her tongue.
Minjae whimpered again. “Unnie . . .”
“Do you want to cum now?” Hyera asked, cupping Minjae’s face.
“Please, Unnie. Let me cum.” Minjae asked in a small voice.
Hyera smiled. “I’ll let you cum, Minjae. Your Unnie is feeling generous tonight.”
Minjae leaned into Hyera’s hand, almost nuzzling her. “Thank you, Unnie.”
“But I want to hear you say it one more time.” Hyera muttered.
Minjae laid there, watching Hyera Unnie. What happened? Why was she so sentimental?
“Will you let me cum, Unnie?” Minjae asked, sliding her hand over Hyera’s.
“Not that, Minjae. Tell me you love me. With all of your heart and body.” Hyera said, her voice soft and tender. “Tell me I’m everything you want and need. That you’re mine forever.”
Minjae’s heart nearly stopped- she watched Hyera Unnie for a beat.
“Unnie, I love you.” Minjae began, smiling softly into her hand. She didn’t break eye contact. “And you’re all that I need. I’m all yours. My heart, my body, everything, Unnie.”
“Good girl.” Hyera let go of Minjae’s face, then parted Minjae’s thighs once more. She pulled back her hair and planted her mouth against Minjae’s aching opening, soaked and ready for her Unnie.
Minjae didn’t have time to reflect on Hyera’s behaviour. All she could focus on was the mounting mind- numbing pleasure between her legs, her core tight and numb as Hyera’s tongue penetrated her, as her thumb worked her clit. Minjae grasped the sheets once more, not containing her voice.
When Hyera plunged her fingers into Minjae’s pussy and then began sucking on Minjae’s clit as hard as she could, Minjae screamed, cumming harder than she had expected to. Her body was red- hot, shaking as tears spilled from her eyes. Her breathing was so shallow, her body awash with endorphins. Everything was a hazy mess, and when Hyera Unnie had finally pulled away, Minjae felt like a happy, empty husk.
“You’re . . . You’re so beautiful after you cum, Minjae,” Hyera said, panting slightly. She pressed her mouth to Minjae’s once more.
“Unnie . . . That was amazing . . .'' Minjae panted, trying to catch her breath. “Why . . . Why now?”
Hyera Unnie smiled, cupping Minjae’s cheek. “Because I was thinking today, about how lucky I am that I have you, Minjae. I have you here, in my bed, all to myself.”
Minjae blinked back tears- why was she crying? It was the after sex, it had to be. Her heart warmed as Hyera kissed her again.
“And to think, I wasted time sharing you,” Hyera continued. “When I could have had you, like this, all that time?”
Minjae held her breath. Was she referring to Kang Yuna? Hyera never brought up Yuna, and in turn, neither did Minjae.
“But that doesn’t matter now, does it?” Hyera stroked Minjae’s wild hair. So soft, so tender. Minjae could fall asleep. “You’re mine. You love me. And no one else.”
“That’s right, Unnie,” Minjae fought off a yawn.
“Go wash up, Minjae. I’m sure you’ll sleep well tonight.” Hyera placed another kiss on Minjae’s cheek before getting off of the bed. “I’ll be joining you soon.”
Minjae left the bed, her knees weak under her. She washed up quickly in the bathroom, then fell right asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. She would have to worry about Hyera’s words another time.
*
Minjae awoke to an empty bed.
Still exhausted, Minjae laid there for a moment, listening to the telltale signs of Hyera Unnie getting ready for work. She could hear the dishwasher, and some footsteps, but that was it. Minjae got up, pleasantly sore from last night’s sudden wake up call.
Minjae sat on the edge of the bed, recalling what Hyera Unnie had told her, as she fucked her, as she made love to her.
You’re mine. You love me. And no one else.
The words weren’t out of place. Neither were the actions. However, in the middle of the night? Drunk?
Something didn’t sit right.
Minjae threw on her robe and a fresh pair of panties. She grabbed her collar and headed to the kitchen, where she found her Hyera Unnie. Once more, something wasn’t sitting right.
“Good morning, my Minjae,” Hyera Unnie greeted. She was in a sensible knee length dress that buttoned up to her collarbone. By the door was a suitcase and a large carry on.
Minjae’s heart froze. “Unnie, where are you going?”
Hyera smiled kindly, putting down her phone on the table before approaching Minjae.
“I’m sorry, my Minjae, but my father’s having a getaway this weekend for his business partners and I must attend.” Hyera explained, taking the collar from Minjae’s hand. Minjae spun around, moving her half done braid so that Hyera could attach the collar around her neck. “And because it’s business, I can’t take you along, Minjae.”
Minjae’s heart sank. The few times a year Hyera would fly down to Jeju island or some nearby islands and take Minjae along with her- it was the only time they went out together, shopping, eating in restaurants, sightseeing . . .
“Oh,” Minjae muttered. Perhaps that was why Hyera Unnie had woken her up last night.
“I know you’re disappointed, my Minjae,” Hyera spun Minjae around and held her close. She cupped her face and kissed her gently. “But I’ll be back in a few days and we can plan something special. Would you like to take a vacation by the ocean?”
Minjae nodded. Disappointment was settling in her stomach. After the past few days, with all of the sex they had had, it was going to be a long wait.
“I’ll be back before you know it.” Hyera kissed her again. “But until then, I’ll ask one thing of you.”
“Yes, Unnie?” Minjae looked up at Hyera, gazing upon her soft face. Her makeup was more subtle. Her hair, soft and fragrant- something floral that Minjae couldn’t quite put her finger on.
Hyera Unnie leaned into Minjae’s ear. “You can’t touch yourself while I’m gone. No matter how much you ache, how much you want to cum.”
Minjae gulped. “Unnie, that’s so cruel.”
After the past few days? Minjae was hoping that Hyera Unnie could call her and they could talk on the phone, maybe even video call. . .
“It’s cruel, yes,” Hyera Unnie kissed Minjae again. “But I think your poor pussy needs a break, doesn’t it?”
“Unnie,” Minjae groaned, staring up at Hyera. “What if I get lonely?”
“You’ll have to bear it, my Minjae,” Hyera Unnie said simply. She let go of Minjae and picked up her phone. “My ride to the airport will be here soon.”
“Unnie, I mean it,” Minjae began, following Hyera Unnie to the table. She grabbed Hyera’s hand and planted it against her breast. “Please don’t be cruel to me.”
Hyera smiled, squeezing Minjae’s breast as she did. Minjae held back a pitiful moan. Now that it was out of reach, despite the night before, Minjae wanted more of Hyera.
It was almost as if it was never enough.
“You’re so sex crazed, Minjae,” Hyera Unnie tightened her grip. “You can’t even handle a few days without cumming?”
Minjae opened the front of her robe, sliding Hyera’s hand inside, against her bare breast.
“Not when you fuck me so good, Unnie,” Minjae muttered, her arousal ignting.
Hyera’s thumb ran over Minjae’s pebbled nipple. She pulled Minjae closer, licking her lower lip.
“Are you trying to make me miss my flight, Minjae?” Hyera asked in a low, dangerous voice.
“I . . . I want you to stay,” Minjae replied, her robe falling open now.
Hyera’s arm was around the narrow of Minjae’s waist, pulling her closer.
“You want me to fuck you again, is that it?” Hyera asked, pushing off Minjae’s robe.
“Ha-!” Minjae discarded the robe, feeling her bare chest against Hyera’s dress. The arousal, the need, ached terribly inside of her. “Unnie . . . Please . . .”
“Take off your panties and kneel.” Hyera Unnie whispered. “And beg me.”
Minjae gulped quietly. Hyera Unnie let her go, then crossed her arms. Slowly, Minjae pulled off her panties and tossed them aside with her robe. She got on her knees and looked up expectantly at Hyera.
“Unnie, please, fuck me.” Minjae began. The floor of the kitchen was ice cold, making her shiver.
Hyera smirked over her, then bent down to cup her chin.
“How bad do you want it?” Hyera Unnie asked.
“So . . .So bad. Please don’t leave me be.” Minjae muttered. Her heart was pounding hard in her chest. She didn’t like having to beg, but her arousal was stronger than her now.
“You’re so greedy, Minjae.” Hyera Unnie replied softly. She pulled away. “Wasn’t last night enough?”
Minjae shook her head. “I don’t want to be away from you, Unnie.”
“It won’t be for long,” Hyera muttered. “You can’t hold back for a few days?”
“No, Unnie, I can’t,” Minjae replied. “You’re leaving so suddenly, how-?”
Hyera pursed her lips and cupped Minjae’s chin again, but this time, harder. Minjae gasped, closing her eyes tightly.
“I told you, no.” Hyera said at once. “I must leave and you must learn some restraint.”
Minjae froze in place, too scared to move at all. She didn’t dare open her mouth.
“Look at me, Minjae.” Hyera commanded.
Slowly, Minjae opened her eyes. Hyera was frowning at her, her brows furrowed. Suddenly, shame rose up in Minjae, from the pit of her stomach, up to her throat, choking her.
“You’re such a slut, Minjae. A dirty little slut. So sex crazed, so greedy.” Hyera’s words cut into Minjae, making her recoil but Hyera wouldn’t let her. “I’ve spoiled you, haven’t I? When I get back, I’ll make sure you get what you deserve.”
Minjae closed her eyes again, shuddering.
“Look at me, Minjae! I mean it.” Hyera tugged at her chin, forcing Minjae to look up at her. Her grip was tighter now, her fingers digging into Minjae’s skin. “Now, what do you have to say to your master, hmm?”
Minjae gulped. “I’m sorry, master. I won’t . . . I won’t ask again.”
“What won’t you ask of me?” Hyera tugged once more, tilting up Minjae’s head.
Tears began to prickle her eyes. Minjae could hear Hyera’s phone ring. Her ride must have arrived.
“Go on, hurry. I have to go.” Hyera Unnie instructed. “I don’t have all day.”
“I . . . I won’t beg again, Master. . .” Minjae said in a quiet voice. She didn’t want to cry, but the shame was too much. “I won’t beg you to fuck me.”
“No, you won’t.” Hyera smirked this time. “When I return, you’ll be begging for mercy.”
Minjae gasped when Hyera pulled away her hand. She held her own chin, her throat, as Hyera spun on her bare foot and grabbed her ringing phone.
“Yes?” She answered curtly, her back to Minjae. “I’ll be right there. I had to discipline my pet.”
Minjae watched from the floor at Hyera Unnie grabbed her keys, her passport and wallet from the table, shoving it into the purse that she had picked to match her light blue dress. Quietly, Minjae let the tears fall, not wanting to draw attention to herself.
“Remember, Minjae.” Hyera said after a moment or two. “You cannot touch yourself. Your punishment will only worsen.”
Minjae nodded, holding back a cry. She waited until she heard the door open and close before she let out a quiet sob.
Notes:
Hello everyone!! I have another three day weekend, starting today, so I'm planning on posting a chapter a day.
For those who follow me on tumblr, I put up a poll yesterday about a future fic that may or may not be related to the Cherry Gold series. Please feel free to vote!!
Another update tomorrow morning! Enjoy!!
Chapter 17: Sixth Intermission
Chapter Text
“You and I, we have something special, don’t we?” Hyera muttered, pulling Minjae closer to her.
Minjae smelled of her shampoo, of her soap. Her body limp and heavy against Hyera’s, radiating warmth.
“We do, Unnie,” Minjae replied, holding Hyera tightly.
Minjae did so very well- she endured it all so well. Hyera was still high on the adrenaline of dominating her, of teasing her gorgeous body, of paddling her and of pleasuring her. Hyera didn’t often break out the more intense toys too often- most of her lovers were intimidated by the clamps, the thick dildos and the leather handcuffs. Not Minjae. At least, not enough to say no.
“No one else would understand,” Hyera continued. “They couldn’t even if they tried.”
Hyera had spent the nights since her first encounter with Minjae thinking of her, when she wasn’t thinking of Yuna. In and out of her thoughts, like a constant reminder. How could she begin to explain Cho Minjae to Minji? Or Yuna? They wouldn’t understand. No one truly could.
It neared on obsession.
Minjae was quiet for a moment.
“I only need you, Unnie. I don’t care about the others.” She muttered.
“Exactly.” Hyera kissed the top of Minjae’s head.
Yes, this was special. Minjae was hers to play with. A shiny new toy, whose boundaries have not yet been drawn up. What could Hyera do with her? Endless possibilities came to mind, but for that moment, Hyera settled on enjoying the moment. Of holding Minjae close.
Chapter 18: Seventh Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
From across the bar, Hyera knew she couldn’t be seen. She had chosen a booth far from the bar counter, far from the dance floor. With midterms coming up, there was anxiety in the air. The hard working students of Seoul needed a night off from the hard work that was studying.
Hyera pulled some freshman girl in- she was pretty enough. Blonde hair, blue eyes. She looked sweet and cute, in a mini skirt and a tight top. She had a similar body build to Kim Minji. Maybe Yuna didn’t like big tits on her girls- how was Hyera supposed to know?
“You see that girl with the long black hair, and the crop top? Hm? The one drinking a beer by herself?” Hyera said into the girl’s ear. “She asked me to find a pretty girl to set her up with. She’s awfully shy.”
“Really?” The girl replied, sipping her cocktail. Hyera knew this girl was interested right away. Yuna had caught her attention from the dance floor.
“Go on and seduce her.” Hyera urged. “Don’t tell her about me, though. She’ll think I’m pitying her. She has an ego she wants to protect.”
Hyera watched as the girl downed her drink, then crossed the busy dancefloor. Hyera wished she could watch up close, but sat in the back.
Yuna wouldn’t say no to the girl. How could she? Minji had trampled on her heart just a few days ago. Yuna had kissed Minji, but Minji couldn’t give an answer. She couldn’t return Yuna’s feelings. How could she? She had Han Jihoon and she couldn’t break up with him for a what if.
Hyera just had to wait. Maybe this girl would be the one for Yuna. Maybe this girl could be the one to win Yuna’s icy cold heart. To break her out of her shell.
Once Kang Yuna fell in love, it would be so easy to break her heart again and again.
Then, that was when Hyera could have her.
In the meantime, Cho Minjae would have to satisfy her obsession a little longer. Just until Yuna was ready. Hyera opened her phone and texted Minjae. The results of her experiment would be evident in the morning.
*
By the time classes began the following Monday morning, Hyera left the exam hall exhausted. She had partied hard on Friday and then spent the entire weekend with Cho Minjae. Physically, she was tired, but mentally she was drained as well. The exam was harder than she thought it would be.
Rounding the corner of the hall, Hyera spotted Yuna, her back to Hyera and talking to someone Hyera couldn’t see. She lingered in hiding for a moment and recognized that the other girl wasn’t Minji.
Yuna chuckled, and so did the other girl. It was definitely the girl from the bar! Hyera smirked to herself- obviously, they had hit it off. Obviously, Hyera knew that they’d be a good match.
Hyera readied herself, then continued down the hall. When she reached Yuna, she clamped her hand on her shoulder.
“Yuna! How was the exam?” Hyera asked in a cheerful tone. She glanced at the girl and sure enough, it was her, from the bar. She was dressed a little more modest now than over the weekend. She had tied back her hair and wore a baggy sweater. “And who’s your friend?”
Yuna glanced over at her. “What are you talking about?”
Hyera stared at the girl, who blushed and looked away.
“Jiwoo told me everything,” Yuna turned to Hyera, crossing her arms. “Actually, could you excuse us, Jiwoo? I need to talk to Oh Hyera for a moment.”
The girl nodded, then walked away quickly. She didn’t meet Hyera’s eyes. Hyera frowned slightly, then rolled her eyes.
“What? Was she not your type, Yuna?” Hyera once a group of students walked by them. “Or was she no good in bed? I can’t promise that they’ll all be amazing.”
Yuna’s icy cold glare bore into Hyera. She found it endearing, more than intimidating.
“I told you, Hyera, I don’t need you to set me up with girls anymore.” Yuna said at once.
“Was she no good?” Hyera asked, feigning disappointment. “Were you unsatisfied, Yuna?”
“That’s not the issue-!”
“-Then what is the issue?” Hyera asked, leaning in, smirking. “Is it because I can’t give you a proper replacement for Kim Minji?”
“This isn’t about Kim Minji!” Yuna said sharply. “This is about you, butting into my business!”
Hyera raised an eyebrow. “I’m just looking out for you, my dear friend.”
Yuna swallowed hard, glancing away. “I don’t need you to pick out my lovers. I can do that on my own.”
“Can you?” Hyera asked, sidling up closer. “Who was the last girl you fell in love with, Yuna? Kim Minji is dating Han Jihoon. She likes boys. And who else? Nameless girls who mean nothing to you? How many straight girls have you yearned for? And can’t have?”
“Stay out of my love life, Hyera. I mean it. Don’t send me any more girls.” Yuna warned.
Hyera held up her hands. “I won’t send you any more girls, Yuna.” She said calmly. “But don’t go ruining what our dear Kim Minji has with that boy.”
Yuna glared at Hyera. She scoffed, but then chose to walk away. Hyera only watched, arms crossed.
A plan was forming in her mind.
Notes:
Hello!!!
I posted two little intermissions since they were so short, so surprise!!! If oyu haven't checked out the tumblr poll yet, please do!! I'd love some input from you guys.
Enjoy!!!
Chapter 19: Eighth Intermission
Chapter Text
A recurring fantasy of Hyera’s was to watch Yuna get fucked. By who? Hyera didn’t know or care. She just wanted to see Yuna under someone, tears in her eyes from the throes of pleasure, melting the ice around her heart.
Sometimes, in her dreams, it was Hyera herself. On top of Yuna, between her long, thin legs. Hyera wondered what she tasted like. She wondered if Yuna was quick to cum, if she moaned loudly, if she squirted. She needed to know. She needed to know everything about Yuna. Did she prefer the leading role? Or did she like to receive, more often than not?
With a dark haired girl, she could recreate it easily enough but it wasn’t enough. Unfortunately, even Cho Minjae couldn’t replace Yuna.
She was in a league of her own.
Wonderful, beautiful Cho Minjae. Hyera lost track of how often she had Cho Minjae over to visit. How often they’d fuck until exhausted, sometimes ordering food or just falling asleep after. Minjae couldn’t stay the night every time, but when she did, Hyera would often fuck her again in the morning.
She could get used to something like this.
It was unfortunate that her father forbade roommates and too many visitors too often. Hyera found herself bribing the cleaning staff not to say a word about Minjae if they spotted her or her discarded clothes, left behind after every meetup.
However, Hyera was ruminating over a decision. A plan of sorts.
If Kang Yuna didn’t want anymore of Hyera’s girls, then Hyera would have to find a different method of executing her plan.
A different girl. A girl that not even Oh Hyera herself could resist.
The wonderful, the beautiful, Cho Minjae.
Cho Minjae belonged to her, and who else could seduce the ice cold Kang Yuna? The fiery redhead, of course. The girl who was so sweet, so beautiful- who could resist?
Hyera knew it was fool proof. Cho Minjae was the perfect bait and it wouldn’t be long before Kang Yuna would be within her grasp.
Chapter 20: Ninth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“Two hundred thousand won?” Hyera repeated, raising her eyebrow.
The young man in the glasses nodded. He turned the laptop to face Hyera and there was the proof.
“I wrote everything you wanted me to write.” He said, gesturing to the word document. “But you want it to be untraceable- that’s why I’m charging two hundred thousand.”
Hyera pursed her lips. She supposed that it was the price to pay to move along the plan, but she didn’t think the nerd she had found online would be so greedy. Then again, was there a price to pay for silence? For discretion? She supposed he could be asking for double.
“Fine. I’ll send you the money.” Hyera replied. “And you’ll make the post?”
He nodded, pushing his glasses up his nose. “Of course. It’ll be impossible to tell who posted it from which computer, let alone who wrote it.”
“If anyone suspects me, you’ll never hear the end of it.” Hyera threatened. She pulled up the money transfer app the nerd had told her to use. With a few accounts made and a few aliases created, even the money trail was discreet, too. “Understood?”
The nerd nodded, pulling out his phone. “Received! Shall I post it now?”
“Yes, post it now.” Hyera watched as he tapped the built-in mouse on the laptop and suddenly, their shared work was on the student social media.
“This is a lot of effort just to bully someone,” the nerd remarked, closing the tab of his private browser and then closing the laptop.
Hyera waved her hand. “It’s not bullying. I’m not that petty.”
“It seems like it.” he added.
“It's not. Its . . . Pushing things in motion. It’s complicated.” Hyera stood up at once and tossed back her hair.
Not only would the rant she had curated would push Yuna and Minjae closer, but the entire student body would have their suspicions of Minji.
And poor Minji wouldn’t be able to handle it. Not with her sick grandfather, after all. If it all worked out, then maybe, just maybe, Minji would leave campus.
And if she didn’t think of it, Hyera would suggest it.
She just had to wait and let the pieces fall into place.
Notes:
A little callback to the rant!! Chapter 17 of Cherry Gold, if you need a reminder!!
Chapter 21: Tenth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“I . . . I belong to you, Unnie. I don’t want . . . I don’t want to . . .” Minjae glanced up at Hyera. “I don’t want anyone but you. You’re all I need, Unnie.”
Minjae was almost too loyal to Hyera.
It was endearing, but frustrating.
The words, however, were sweet to hear. Hyera couldn’t help but swell with pride. What made Minjae so loyal? Hyera wondered if it was because she saved her from those idiot gangbanger boys, or the incredible sex, or a mixture of everything?. She was too loyal, too willing to be Hyera’s and not enough to completely obey.
There was one way to fix that.
“Get on the bed, ass up and head down.” Hyera commanded, pushing Minjae to the floor of her room. The poor girl fell with a thump, but got up quickly.
She was on all fours on the bed, her forehead touching the mattress, her ass in the air. Perfect and round. Her thighs trembling with anticipation. Hyera grabbed the paddle from the bedside table, among the other toys she had stashed there, just for Minjae. Once she had bedded her, she had bought a special collection, just for her.
Gently, Hyera cradled Minjae’s ass with one hand and slid the paddle against the back of her lower thigh, trailing upwards. Minjae whimpered, clutching the pillow above her head.
“My poor, sweet Minjae.” Hyera cooed, pulling back the paddle and snapping it against Minjae’s ass. The clap was delectable, but not as delectable as Minjae’s cry. “Was I wrong to put my faith in you?”
“Ha-! Unnie!” Minjae turned her head slightly. She was flushed.
“Was I?” Hyera asked, striking her once more.
“N-no, Unnie.”
Hyera pulled back and struck Minjae’s ass twice in quick succession. The red bloom across her flesh grew brighter. Minjae lifted her head to cry out. Her fingers were digging into the sheets.
“Then you’ll obey me.” Hyera gripped the paddle hard and decided that she wasn’t to hold back.
If Minjae truly loved her, she’d return. She’d do as she was asked. She’d sleep with Kang Yuna, capture her heart and then break it. Break it into a million pieces.
But first, Minjae needed to be broken in as well.
Hyera pulled back and once she let go, once she began to hit the paddle against Minjae’s ass, she did not stop. Minjae cried- oh, did she cry. She screamed, but she did not give up. She endured. She endured and she cried and she sobbed.
Hyera’s heart was racing. It took everything in her power not to slide her fingers between Minjae’s quaking thighs. She wanted- no, she needed to know if Minjae was wet. If she liked being punished. It took everything in Hyera’s power not to lick her up, to make her cum.
Instead, she tossed aside the paddle and pulled Minjae onto her back. Her cheeks were stained with tears, her chest heaving as she panted, as she held back more tears. Hyera walked away, picking up the discarded paddle, leaving Minjae a moment to recover.
“You’re to sleep with Kang Yuna,” Hyera said as approached the bed, sitting on the edge. She laid her hand on Minjae’s soft breast, cupping it gently. Minjae smiled.
“But Unnie-!” Minjae began and Hyera squeezed at once. Hyera stared at her, digging her fingers into Minjae’s flesh. Minjae cried out, arching her back. ”Ha-! Unnie!”
“No buts.” Hyera said, leaning down and over Minjae's body. “You’re to sleep with her.”
Minjae whimpered in pain and Hyera only tightened her grip on Minjae’s breast.
“Sleep with Kang Yuna and bring me proof.” Hyera commanded. She reached between Minjae's legs, parting her slim thighs to reveal her entrance. Minjae opened her own legs further, which made Hyera proud. “I want to see marks. I want to see a mark right here.”
Right there, on her thigh, where Hyera had marked her the very first time.
“Unnie-! Please-!”
Hyera dug her nails into Minjae’s breast.
Hurting Minjae was almost as fun as fucking her.
“There will be no visits, nothing, until you do this for me, Minjae. I do not want to see you until you sleep with Kang Yuna. Do you understand?”
“Ha-!” Minjae cried out again. “Unnie- why-?”
“Why?” Hyera repeated, leaning in until her forehead touched Minjae's. “Because you’re mine, Cho Minjae. You belong to me and I do what I want with you.”
Minjae’s eyes went wide, then she smiled. Hyera relented, cupping her breast now. Her expression soft now- she averted her eyes, then nodded.
“Yes, Unnie, I will do as you ask, ha-!” Minjae replied, moaning when Hyera let go of her.
“Good girl,” Hyera praised. She leaned down, kissing Minjae slowly, but chastely.
Yes, Minjae obeyed so well. Too well. Hyera left the bed, pulling on a robe that matched her nightie, then laid with Minjae in the bed once more. She drew her in, letting Minjae nestle against her breasts. The poor girl was dozing off. From Hyera’s angle, she could see the redness of Minjae’s ass.
Yes, Minjae belonged to her.
And what a dangerous thing to own.
Hyera held onto Minjae. It would be too easy to obsess, to hold on to Minjae too tightly, to never want to let her go. Yet, sending her away to be fucked by Kang Yuna . . .
Hyera almost didn’t want to. Not anymore.
But no, this was Minjae’s task. If anyone could seduce Kang Yuna, it would be Minjae.
It had to be Minjae.
Hyera almost felt bad. She’d be discarded, forgotten, once Hyera had Yuna. Once Yuna was heartbroken and desperate, Hyera would have no use for Minjae.
She ought to have her fun with her while she still could.
Notes:
Hello everyone!!!
I posted three chapter since they were all short and from Hyera's pov. I gotta tell you guys, it's so fun writing from Hyera's pov. I feel like I can really let out my inner pervert haha.
The next chapter will be on saturday. If you follow me on tumblr, I will be obnoxious about the Red, White, and Royal Blue movie coming out on friday. I am truly sorry for the person I will become when I see that movie!!!! I might make a post abotu the movie, we'll see.
Please enjoy all of the chapters!! Comments are always appreciated and the tumblr poll closes on friday if you haven't voted yet!!
Chapter 22: Chapter Eleven: Denial
Chapter Text
The first step was denial.
Yuna poured over the photos on her phone, over the teardrop necklace she had kept hidden from Kim Minji.
The photo from Christmas, the nights together, the declarations of love, the many cigarettes shared, the priceless moments together.
Yuna’s shock seeped into her core. Into every fibre of her being.
No, Cho Minjae loved her.
She loved her and would never betray her.
Her secrets had nothing to do with Oh Hyera, that hateful bitch who wanted nothing more than to meddle.
Yuna slipped into those thoughts more often than not. On the train ride back home, in her bed, late at night, when Minji tried to change her mind and to get her to focus on something else, while she walked the excitable dogs.
It plagued her.
Every moment they shared, every embrace, every single word.
It couldn’t have been faked.
It had to be real.
Yuna wouldn’t accept any other way.
Yet Hyera . . .
Yuna thought of how Hyera had leaned in, had told her that she had been fucking Minjae all along . . . The photos of Minjae . . .
Minjae, smiling along side Hyera.
Minjae, beautiful in everything she wore, pampered by Hyera.
Minjae, her sweet smile and her unwavering love . . .
What was real? And what wasn’t?
Yuna didn’t know. She hated that she didn’t know.
The memories she had held dear- Minjae in the frilly pink apron, Minjae, in the restaurant, with Yuna’s head on her shoulder (You can always lean on me, Unnie), Minjae, moaning Yuna’s name for the first time. Minjae, smiling at the table when Yuna would come home. Their hello kisses, their goodbye kisses, the moments in between, holding each other in their arms in the dark of the early morning.
That dreadful day when Minjae left, the memory surrounded by tears and pain, how Minjae left her necklace behind, how Yuna ran after her.
Yuna had taken the necklace off of the knob and ran down the stairs, jumping steps in her slippers. She ran into the snowy streets and saw no one.
Not even a glimpse of a cherry red braid.
Minjae wasn’t that cruel. She wasn’t that heartless.
Yet. . .
Yet she had left.
Yet she had slept with Hyera.
Yet . . . Yet . . Yet . . .
Yuna couldn’t wrap her head around it. Her heart was a fractured mess, spilling out into tears.
Minji swooped in to hold her that night, tightly in her arms. She didn’t ask any questions. She didn’t impose. Minji held Yuna as she cried the night away.
Chapter 23: Chapter Twelve: Acceptance
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Minjae wasn’t sure how long she was sitting on the floor after Hyera Unnie had left. She was paralyzed, unable to move. Tears had fallen, then dried upon her cheek.
She knew that Hyera Unnie could be cruel. She knew the extent of her wrath. She knew that Hyera held all of the power over her.
Minjae belonged to her.
That was why she wore the collar.
Slowly, very slowly, Minjae stood up on her feet. She grabbed her discarded clothes and made her way to the bathroom. She ran the bath with only hot water.
Hyera Unnie was right.
She was spoiled and greedy.
Hyera Unnie fucked her so often, Minjae almost felt entitled to it.
Shame rose inside of her. How did it get so far? How did this happen? Minjae turned to face the vanity mirror. She stared at herself.
The cherry red collar stood out brightly against her pale skin. She looked exhausted. She was too pale and hadn’t slept properly. Her breasts hung heavily, less perky than they used to be. Her half undone braid was still a mess. She hadn’t had time to brush it yet. She was due for another wax.
She must have looked pathetic on the floor, kneeling, begging to be fucked.
More shame arose in Minjae. It twisted inside of her, making her sick. She stopped the water and sat in the boiling hot water.
It was almost too much to bear.
Almost. Minjae endured it for a few moments, then hopped out. She drained the tub a bit, then added cold water. Once the water was a more reasonable temperature, she slid in.
Minjae slid under the surface, laid there for as long as possible, before her lungs gave out and she emerged, breaking the surface.
The collar hung heavy around her neck. She took it off and tossed it aside.
How did it all come down to this?
Minjae couldn’t remember- the past five years were a haze of different states of undress in between periods of studying and schooling and work.
But in the past three months . . .
Minjae, alone in the condo.
Minjae, in a silk robe at all times.
Minjae, far from everyone she knew. She hadn’t spoken to her mother in months. Her step father in years. She hadn’t spoken to Kang Yuna since she left WeiYoppu. She left behind her friends and changed her phone number.
Minjae, naked in bed, available for Hyera Unnie. Her body was there to serve Hyera Unnie’s every whim.
And she served her.
Minjae obeyed Hyera so easily. She did everything she was asked of.
And now?
Minjae wasn’t sure what she had to show for it.
Nothing but that pit in her stomach.
Notes:
Hello everyone!! Happy Saturday!!!
Once again, the chapter seemed too short and I decided to post another to go along with it. It seemed lonely haha.
I'm trying to think of something to say about these two chapters here. Hyera truly broke down our girls and reduced them to these low states and we kinda love her for it. But the plot is just getting started and there's still more sad times to come.
The tumblr poll closed yesterday and it seems as though people are into the mystery fic with components of character development AND revenge thriller (I use the term thriller loosely). Interesting. . .
Enjoy the chapters!! Another update next Saturday!!
Chapter 24: Eleventh Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“I’ll be back late. I’ll set you free then.” Hyera planted a small kiss against Minjae's cheek.
Hyera gazed upon Minjae, her own arousal mounting. Poor Minjae had failed her task during her lovey dovey getaway with Kang Yuna. So, her punishment was to feel Yuna’s inevitable betrayal. She cuffed the poor girl to the bed, blindfolded her, then attached nipple clamps to her lovely tits. Between her thighs, lodged deep into her pussy, was an app controlled vibrator. The sight of Minjae laying there, her chest rising and falling, anticipating the worst.
She was too beautiful like this.
She would only grow more beautiful once the night was done.
Hyera closed the door behind her just as the doorbell rang. She made her way across her apartment and opened the door.
“Yuna! Long time no see!” Hyera said cheerfully. “How was your vacation?”
“Good. Very good.” Yuna replied casually. Hyera could see the small smile form on her lips. Yuna removed her shoes and entered the kitchen. Hyera knew that Minjae would be able to hear better from the living room, so she gestured to Yuna to follow her.
“Come, and tell me about it! What shall we drink?” Hyera asked, making sure she would be heard, but not obviously too loud.
“Beer. I’m in a beer kind of mood.” Yuna replied.
Hyera brought back cans of beer from the kitchen. She handed one to Yuna.
“So, who’s this mystery girl?” Hyera asked. “I want to meet her!”
Yuna scoffed. “I’m not introducing her to you yet.”
“Why not? Are you ashamed of her? Of me?” Hyera asked in a faux offended voice.
Yuna paused. “I didn’t come here to talk about her. Or at least, not like this, Hyera. You . . . You didn’t send her to me?”
Hyera scoffed, lowering her voice. “I told you I wouldn’t. You don’t believe me?”
“How can I be sure?” Yuna asked, narrowing her eyes. . “You can’t blame me for not believing you.”
“If I knew who she was, you would know,” Hyera replied, sipping her beer.
Yuna sat there, still scrutinising her. Hyera didn’t blame her but she couldn’t have Yuna be too suspicious of Minjae.
“There’s a club I’ve been dying to go to, Yuna,” Hyera began, changing the subject. She even raised her voice. Minjae had to hear, after all. “I know you have a lover, but there’s someone I want to introduce you to.”
“Why, Hyera?” Yuna frowned.
“Nothing wrong with making new friends!” Hyera winked at Yuna.
“I don’t need new friends and I have a lover I’m satisfied with.”
Hyera sipped her beer, hiding her disappointment. She needed Yuna to go with her to the bar. There was no way Minjae could hold her voice enough- she was such a loud, lewd girl. She’d moan the moment Hyera would turn on the vibrator.
Hyera was itching to, but with Minjae listening, she needed to wait.
So, Hyera thought of something else.
“Are you, though? I know you, Kang Yuna. You need change. You need variety. You need a girl that can keep up with you, that can be what you need! Can a single girl do that for you?” Hyera asked, leaning in slightly. Her own breasts were threatening to spill out of her dress. It was a little suggestive, but Yuna’s eyes were drawn to her chest, so it worked.
“If you’d asked me a few weeks ago, maybe but I just spent three days with her, and she’s so amazing-!” Yuna began. She averted her eyes quickly, blushing. Yuna gulped down some of her beer.
“Oh yeah? Tell me about her! Is she pretty? Does she have big tits?” Hyera asked.
“I’m not telling you that.” Yuna retorted. A pause. “This beer is good, though.”
“So her tits must be tiny. I know some freshmen girls with huge tits.” Hyera replied. Yuna didn’t seem like the type to kiss and tell. “Aren’t you curious? How long have you been seeing this mystery girl? You can’t be that attached to her! Are you exclusive?”
Hyera waited for Yuna’s reply, but she only drank her beer.
“You have to meet this one girl, she’s a freshman and she’s super cute. You’ll love her.” Hyera added, pulling out her phone. She tapped on the app for the vibrator. “Just come out and say hi! No harm in that, hmm?”
“Hyera, please.” Yuna said, finally glancing at her.
“I know you, Kang Yuna. You’re going to mess this up. You’re going to lose your mystery girl and when you do, you’ll be all alone. You don’t even have Kim Minji to rely on when you’re lonely. At least meet her once, so that when this ends, you’ll have a shoulder to cry on.” Hyera added. She delivered it softly, to hide the jagged edges of the truth. But it was the truth, wasn’t it? For the past year, Hyera had helped Yuna sleep with so many girls. Has Yuna ever had a steady girlfriend before?
“Fine. I’ll stop by and say hi.” Yuna admitted.
Hyera smiled and pulled the slider to nearly full blast. “I’ll call a driver and we can get going, hmm?”
Yuna didn’t reply. She tossed back her head, emptying the can of beer quickly.
*
This club was small, but it was easy to find a pretty girl and rope her over to sit next to Yuna. Hyera found herself a girl, too. A skinny girl with long hair, maybe a little too drunk. Yuna spoke with the girl, but as much as the other girl pressed her breasts against Yuna’s arm, hanging all over her, Yuna did not react.
It was a little annoying. Then again, Hyera chalked it up to Minjae doing her job. Of course Yuna was seduced by her lovely Minjae. Who wouldn’t be? But could she stay loyal? Could this be more than just fucking? Hyera needed to know.
Hyera played with the apps as the girl who sat next to her drank on Hyera’s tab, hanging off of her.
“What are you doing, Unnie?” The girl asked, noticing the phone.
Hyera turned the slider for the vibrator to full blast. It wouldn’t be for long, just enough to make Minjae think the worse of Yuna.
“I’m playing a game. Excuse me.” Hyera tucked her phone into her tiny purse, then pulled the girl in close. She smelled of cheap perfume and of alcohol. “What were you saying?”
The girl giggled. “I was saying, Unnie, that we should get out of here! Can we go to your place?”
Hyera gave the girl a look over. Her face was pretty enough, but she wore lots of makeup. Too much, almost. She was skinny and had no tits. Hyera wasn’t sure if this girl would be better than Minjae, who was already hot and ready for fucking.
“Maybe next time,” Hyera muttered. “I’m just here to be with my friend tonight.”
The girl sighed, but she got up and left. Hyera shrugged and finished her cocktail.
“That’s not like you, Hyera,” Yuna said. “Letting a girl go like that.”
Hyera shrugged. “Tonight is about you, Yuna.” She lifted her drink. “What do you think of our friend here, though?”
The girl next to Yuna smiled prettily and batted her lashes.
“She’s very nice,” Yuna replied.
“Just nice?” The girl asked indignantly.
“I already have a girlfriend.” Yuna mentioned casually. “Sorry to waste your time.”
The girl frowned, then glanced over at Yuna. “That’s not what you said, Unnie!”
Once again, the girl left. Hyera rolled her eyes but pulled out her purse to lower the slider.
“You’re wasting their time, Hyera. I told you, I’m satisfied with my lover.” Yuna said at once.
“Are you?” Hyera asked innocently, turning up the slider to increase the pulse. It wouldn’t be enough to make Minjae cum, but enough to tease. The poor girl. Hyera couldn’t wait to go see her.
Yuna paused. “You say that like I’m not allowed to move on.”
“Have you heard from Kim Minji lately?” Hyera asked innocently.
Yuna sipped her beer, lowering her eyes.
“She hasn’t texted you?” Hyera raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. Minji had texted her a few times since leaving campus, explaining some of her situation.
But if Minji wasn’t telling Yuna . . .
“No, I haven’t heard from her.” Yuna admitted at last.
“She’s still dating that boy.” Hyera added. “Han Jihoon, I think? He looks so bland. I don’t know what she sees in him.”
“Good for her.” Yuna said it so quietly, Hyera almost thought she imagined it.
“You know, I feel bad for her.” Hyera sighed. “Forced off campus because of that post, her family issues . . .”
“We still don't know who wrote it.” Yuna replied, glancing up at her.
Hyera shrugged. “I have no idea. All I know is that it didn’t help Minji’s cause to make a scene.”
“I don’t understand why she went after Ch- I mean, the student reporter.” Yuna said. “It just made her look guilty.”
“I have no idea either,” Hyera sighed. “But what is done, is done.”
Yuna glanced up at Hyera, sipping her beer.
“So, you won’t tell me about your mystery girl, hmm?” Hyera asked once more. It killed her that Yuna was so tight lipped about Minjae. Then again, she didn’t talk about any of her past lovers. But Minjae was special. How could Yuna not sing her praises?
“She’ll remain a mystery to you, Hyera, for a long time.” Yuna replied.
Hyera pouted. She slipped closer to Yuna, in their shared booth. “Why not? I want to know who was so special to Kang Yuna, that you had to take her on a vacation!”
Yuna blushed at once, but hid her face by drinking the rest of her beer.
“Give your friend a hint, Yuna.” Hyera patted Yuna’s thigh. The alcohol made her brave, made her bold.
“You’ll only bother her.” Yuna said, still averting her gaze.
“Do you think I’ll steal her away from you?” Hyera teased.
Little did Yuna know. Hyera smirked.
“No.” Yuna put down her empty beer a little too heavily.
“Then tell me her name.” Hyera leaned on the table, making sure she was in Yuna’s line of sight. “I promise, I’ll leave your precious lover be.”
Yuna scoffed. “I think you’ve interfered enough, haven’t you?”
Hyera pulled away, trying to hide her dismay with a smile. “I was just trying to help you, Yuna. Didn’t I make the nights a little less lonely for you with my girls?”
Yuna scoffed again, then got up. “I’m done here. Are you?”
Hyera stared up at Yuna, her fingers in her purse. She had forgotten she had left on a slider.
“Sure. It’s late, isn’t it?” Hyera checked her phone. Poor Minjae had been tied up and suffering for nearly three hours now. She tapped the app and turned off the vibrator. A small break, for now.
*
“Minjae! Are you still awake? Are you still there?” Hyera shouted when she entered the bedroom. She flipped on the light and saw poor Minjae just where she had left her. Now, the poor girl was flushed and the metal chain of her nipple clamps were no longer between her pink lips, but now laid on her chest, between her breasts. Hyera tutted loudly. “You dropped the chain. You missed quite the outing, Minjae. There were so many pretty girls at the club. Kang Yuna had her pick!”
Hyera sat on the bed, leaning over Minjae to undo the cuffs. Slowly, Minjae lowered her arms, stretching them slightly. Her breath was a little ragged, as if she was still trying to catch it. Hyera pulled off the blindfold, meeting Minjae’s golden eyes. Hyera smiled softly at her, then, carefully, took off each clamp. Her poor nipples were dark and sensitive. Minjae gasped quietly.
“I had fun teasing you, Minjae. Did it feel good? Did Yuna’s betrayal make you cum?” Hyera asked as she opened Minjae’s thighs once the sash was untied. She pulled out the soaked vibrator.
“Unnie . . . that was so cruel.” Minjae muttered, looking away.
“Cruel? Is it cruel to make you see your place?” Hyera asked, losing the softness. “Is it cruel to teach you a lesson you must learn?”
If Yuna was so protective of Minjae, to take her away on vacation, to fuck her in privacy, to keep her all to herself, then Minjae would be too spoiled. Yuna was not a paragon of a lover. She was flawed. And Minjae needed to know she was nothing more than a tool.
Hyera climbed on top of Minjae’s hips, straddling her.
“You disobeyed me, you must learn your lesson.” Hyera stated once more. “You want Kang Yuna so badly? Then you must know her truth. She never sticks to one girl for long. You have to keep her close. You have to pledge yourself to her. Don’t stop seeing her, is that understood?”
Minjae swallowed hard, staring up at Hyera with wide eyes. “Yes, Unnie.”
Now that she was on top of Minjae, now that she knew she was wet, ready for her, Hyera pressed her hands against Minjae’s soft, round breasts.
“And now, I’m feeling a little . . . lonely. I haven’t seen you in three days, Minjae.” Hyera purred, her tone changing completely. “Let’s play a little before we go to bed.”
“Yes Unnie, anything for you.” Minjae replied, moaning as Hyera massaged her. Hyera was careful to be soft, to be kind after all that Hyera had put her through.
Those simple words were all Hyera needed to hear. Minjae’s obedience was everything.
“Good girl, Minjae.” Hyera praised as she pulled off her dress, revealing her lingerie. She leaned down and kissed Minjae deeply.
Then, when she pulled away and got off of Minjae, she followed suit. Minjae sat on the floor of Hyera’s bedroom, kneeling as she had been told to do.
Hyera smirked, lowering her panties and sitting on the edge of the bed, opening her thighs.
“You know where you truly belong, don’t you, Minjae?” Hyera asked. Minjae held her thighs and pressed her mouth to her sex. Hyera hummed, tossing back her head. “With me. I’m all you need, aren’t I?- Good girl- ha-!”
Minjae’s mouth worked so well. The way her tongue and mouth moved, the way she was so eager to lick her, to prove herself worthy. Hyera kept a hand on the back of her head.
Yuna could play pretend with Minjae all she wanted. They could pretend to be in love, they could play house, they could fuck all they want.
But Minjae was Hyera’s. She was hers, completely and absolutely. Hyera would be the one that Minjae would always obey.
And Hyera would make sure of that.
Notes:
Hello everyone!!! Here's a chapter a day early!!
Why? Because today I start my two week vacation!
(actually it's going to be slightly longer than two weeks because of labour day and today, but still)
To celebrate, I'll be posting one chapter a day during the week! That means no chapter on saturday, but there will be a chapter on monday, tuesday etc etc. That'll also mean I'll be able to work on the mystery fic that I made a poll for last week. After this two week writing session, I'll be able to decide if I want to add the fic to the Cherry Gold series or not.
So, enjoy!!!
Chapter 25: Twelfth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Cho Minjae obeyed so wonderfully.
At times.
And then, there were times when she didn’t. She forgot herself. She’d let herself get wrapped up in Kang Yuna’s embrace. She couldn’t let that happen. Hyera couldn’t let Minjae be lost to Yuna.
She had to keep Minjae in check.
“Minjae, you can seduce anyone, with your doe eyes, pink lips and your lovely body. You’re mine, and I want you by my side. I want your loyalty. I want you to prove your loyalty.”
Minjae knelt on the floor, naked as usual. Naked was how Hyera liked her.
“Yes, Unnie?” Minjae asked, her hands planted on the floor. Hyera cupped her face so gently.
“There’s someone I want you to sleep with. Sleep with this person and get the proof I want, and I’ll never question your loyalty to me ever again. I’ll never try to take Kang Yuna away from you.”
This would be the ultimate test. If Minjae could complete this task, then Hyera wouldn’t have to worry about losing Minjae to anyone. Minjae would be hers. She’d be the perfect tool.
“Who is it, Unnie?” Minjae asked carefully, leaning into her hand.
“Your step brother, Minjae. Sleep with him and send me a photo of you two with his phone. Do this for me and then I’ll know your heart truly belongs to me.”
Her step brother. Hyera knew it the moment Minjae had confirmed it- even her step brother couldn’t help himself when it came to Minjae. She was too beautiful, too irresistible. Even he had his turn with her.
And Hyera wondered if Minjae would go so far as to sleep with him. Would she do it for her? Would she complete the task? Was Cho Minjae that loyal?
Minjae’s eyes went wide at the mention of her step brother. Her lips parted in surprise.
“Will you complete your task, Minjae? To prove yourself to me?” Hyera asked softly.
Minjae was almost frozen in place. She nodded, slowly.
“You have one week, Minjae. To seduce him and to get the proof.” Hyera added. “Is that enough time, my Minjae?”
The poor girl only nodded. Hyera almost felt bad for her.
It was Minjae’s fault. She should have obeyed when Hyera called for her. She should have dropped Yuna when she was told to. She should have left her and come straight to Hyera.
But no, Minjae was forgetting herself. She was losing herself to Kang Yuna.
Of course Kang Yuna was such a wonderful lover that even Cho Minjae couldn't resist her. But then again, Cho Minjae was a glutton for orgasms, for cumming hard and fast and often.
“Good girl.” Hyera smiled. “Lay on the bed, Minjae. I want to hear you cry.”
Hyera wanted Minjae to cry, to cum harder, faster, and more often. She had to prove she was better in every way.
*
The proof came a few days later. A dark photo from an unknown number while Hyera ate supper with her parents.
It was dark, but it was clear.
A photo of a naked young man, with a small dick and his socks still on, next to Minjae. Minjae, half naked, next to him.
Hyera almost pitied Minjae.
The poor girl slept with him. She obeyed. She did it.
And now, it was time for a reward.
*
“What do you recommend?” Hyera asked as she perused the vibrators.
The sex store Hyera visited came highly recommended on the internet and Hyera had to admit, her interest was piqued. A woman- owned small business in the heart of Seoul that sold sex toys? Why not?
The young woman working behind the counter was nothing short of a beauty. Thin black hair, large doe eyes and a slim figure. She wore a masquerade mask, but it didn’t hide her lustful stare. Hyera only smiled back.
“These are quite popular.” The girl said, gesturing to a line of double prong vibrators. “The thicker of the two is for vaginal penetration, of course, and the smaller prong is for stimulating the clitorus.”
“I see.” Hyera picked up the display. “How’s the motor?”
“There’s seven settings on that one,” the woman explained, enclosing the space between herself and Hyera. “But that one over there has ten.”
“Ten?” Hyera immediately grabbed the vibrator that the woman had mentioned. It had a thicker phallus than the other one. “I like the sound of that.”
“It’s quite intense, this one.” The woman mentioned. “Not for beginners.”
“Oh?” Hyera smirked. “My lover isn’t a beginner. She’ll love this.”
“I’m sure she will.” The woman replied with a knowing smile. “Will that be all?”
“For now.” Hyera said, maintaining her eye contact. “I’ll come back if I need more toys.”
“Use this card,” the girl said, writing something in black pen when she returned to the counter. “And it’ll get you a discount.”
It was the girl’s name- Yang Kyerin. And her phone number.
“Excellent.” Hyera bought the vibrator with cash, then left the store. Not without a last look at the young woman.
She was pretty.
Pretty enough to play with, that was for sure.
*
Cho Minjae was so beautiful after she came.
“You’re so beautiful like this, Minjae,” Hyera said in a soft whisper. She cupped Minjae's cheek. The poor girl leaned into her hand, her eyes fluttering open and close.
“Unnie . . .” Minjae muttered. “Unnie, you’re so good to me . . .”
“I am.” Hyera leaned in and kissed Minjae again. “You wouldn’t even let me be good to you. You don’t know what you even deserve, Minjae.”
Hyera undid the cuffs at last. Minjae’s cries were addictive. She had cummed so many times, even Hyera had lost track. The poor girl was limp on the bed, still trying to catch her breath from all of the screaming she had done.
“Thank you, Unnie,” Minjae said and Hyera leaned in for another kiss.
But Minjae deserved it. After proving herself, she deserved to cum. That boy certainly didn’t do her any favours, that was for sure.
They moved to the bathroom, where Hyera drew up a hot bath. She helped Minjae wash up, but it wasn’t long before she found herself fingering her. Minjae only moaned, unable to protest.
This was where she belonged.
Notes:
Hi everyone!!!
So when writing Minjae's pov of the events in this chapter, I had my doubts. Was I going too far? Was this too much? Would other people find this believable? Then I wrote the events from Hyera's pov and honestly, it's believable to me. If readers don't, then they don't have to read it. I've been lucky to have such awesome readers, and if I lost any after that chapter, I didn't notice haha.
I've been writing a lot since friday, which is always fun!!! Let's just say I always have a lot of fun writing this particular character. The reason this fic is remaining ~mysterious~ is because I'm not sure how it'll turn out or if I'll be happy with it in the end. I won't publish something I don't like, even if it ties up certain character arcs. Right now, it's all vibes and I'm just gonna see where it ends up. If it gets posted, I'll explain more then.
Enjoy the fic and see you guys tomorrow!!!
Chapter 26: Thirteenth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Yang Kyerin undressed the moment they entered Hyera’s bedroom. She had small, modest breasts, and less curves. It was her daring attitude that pulled Hyera in. The way she had so casually mentioned that her purchase could be tested for quality assurance and the coyish wink she had given . . . How could Hyera say no?
Hyera approached her, laying a hand on her cheek, and another against the slope of her breast.
“Well, Unnie?” Kyerin began. “What do you think?”
“You’re very pretty, Kyerin.” Hyera said, leaning in. She pulled Kyerin into a kiss, tightening her grasp on her breast at the same time. Kyerin moaned, grasping onto the front of Hyera’s dress.
“Ha-! Unnie-!” Kyerin moaned into the kiss, grasping harder.
It had been ages since Hyera had kissed anyone that wasn’t Cho Minjae. When had Hyera decided to only have Minjae? Hyera couldn’t believe it- it was unlike herself. Kyerin, small and lithe, was almost foreign in her arms.
“Unnie,” Kyerin began, pulling away from the kiss. She was flushed. “I have something to tell you first.”
Hyera raised an eyebrow. “What is it?”
“I. . . I want you to be cruel to me.” Kyerin said, her eyes set on Hyera’s.
“Oh?” Hyera smirked. She had a clue that perhaps that was what Kyerin wanted. After all, she volunteered herself to test out the new clamps Hyera had bought for Minjae- One would have to be a glutton for pain to want to endure those clamps.
“Yes, you can be as cruel as you like.” Kyerin smiled shyly. “You can hit me, you can humiliate me . . . you can make me work on my knees . . . or whatever it is you please, Unnie.”
Hyera’s stomach tightened at the thought. She pushed Kyerin onto the bed at once, then pinned her down- her hands against the mattress, her knees digging into Kyerin’s bare thighs. The girl gasped, eyes wide.
“So I can do what I please with you, Kyerin?” Hyera asked. “What a dangerous thing to say to a woman you just met.”
Kyerin gave a coy smile. “I’m yours to play with, Unnie.”
The words didn’t ring as true as it did with Minjae, but Hyera settled between Kyerin’s legs. She pulled out the three clamp chain from the paper bag on the bedside table.
“I am known to be a bit cruel,” Hyera smirked. “But I reserve that for my Minjae.”
“Then I’ll be your Minjae, Unnie,” Kyerin replied, eyeing the clamps in Hyera’s hands.
Hyera inspected the clamps. Three clamps on a Y chain, a jaw each for a sensitive little bud. The jaws were narrow, lined with small teeth. Hyera toyed with the jaw, opening and closing them.
“Have you tried these before?” Hyera asked, grasping Kyerin’s soft breast in one hand and lowering her head to take her nipple into her mouth.
“Not this one- ha-!” Kyerin moaned the moment Hyera sucked on her nipple, making sure she was stimulating her. “Ha-!”
Hyera used her teeth, biting down on her. Kyerin cried out.
“Unnie-! Ha-!” Kyerin cried out again. She pressed her hands into Hyera’s arms. “Do you . . . Do you want me to fight back? Or submit completely?”
Hyera let go, finishing with a lap of her tongue against Kyerin’s hardened nipple. “You can’t fight back. My Minjae is always tied up when I tease her like this. She can’t fight back, she can’t stop me.”
Kyerin smirked. “You really are a cruel mistress.”
“I have to be.” Hyera opened the jaw of the clamp and then closed it at the base of Kyerin’s nipple. Kyerin watched, her face pink already. When the jaw closed on her, nice and tight, she whimpered. “Does it hurt, Kyerin?”
“A little,” Kyerin replied. “But I can handle it, Unnie.”
“Let’s continue, hmm?” Hyera grabbed Kyerin’s other breast and began sucking on her nipple. At once, Kyerin’s moans were louder, more desperate. She squirmed, but did not push her away. “Good girl, Kyerin.”
The second clamp was attached. The sight of Kyerin under her, panting, was wonderful. Hyera wondered if Minjae would look just as good.
“Are you ready for the next one?” Hyera asked, spreading open Kyerin’s slim thighs. The poor girl had no fat on her, nothing to grab. It was odd. Hyera glanced down at Kyerin’s opening. She was already glistening, wet from just the teasing. “You look ready.”
“I’m ready when you are, Unnie,” Kyerin said.
Hyera grabbed the chain in one hand and began rubbing tight circles against Kyerin’s clit. At once, Kyerin cried out, one hand against her mouth, the other grasping the sheet. Her moans were desperate, aching almost.
“Doesn’t a pretty girl like you ever get fucked?” Hyera asked, tugging on the chain.
“Ha-!” Kyerin almost had tears in her eyes. Almost. Hyera wanted to see them fall.
“Take your hand from your mouth, Kyerin. I want to hear you scream.” Hyera commanded, pulling away Kyerin’s hand. “Answer my question.”
“Not . . . Not in a while . . . Ha-!” Kyerin answered when Hyera resumed rubbing her clit. This time, Hyera rubbed harder, watching Kyerin moan and writhe. “My last . .. Ha-! My last mistress . . . dumped me-!”
“Mistress?” Hyera asked, tugging on the chain extra hard, watching Kyerin’s nipples follow the chain. Kyerin’s face was flushed, her lips parted. “Tell me more.”
“Ha-!” Kyerin parted her legs further. “Unnie, please . . . stop teasing me . . .”
“Tell me about your mistress,” Hyera said plainly, taking her hand away from Kyerin’s clit only to slap the sensitive bud. Kyerin’s cry was delicious. “Or you won’t cum at all.”
“Ha!” Kyerin’s entire body jolted. “You are cruel, Unnie- Ha-!”
Hyera smirked. She gave Kyerin another smack between the legs, savouring Kyerin’s cry. “Go on, tell me.”
“She . . . she was seeing a boy at the same time . . .” Kyerin explained. “I . . . I hoped she’d like me more.”
“A boy? Over you?” Hyera lowered herself between Kyerin’s legs. “Keep going.”
Kyerin was watching her, Hyera could feel it. “No. . . No matter how good the sex was . . . ha- ha-!”
Hyera wrapped her lips around Kyerin’s clit, sucking hard and fast. Kyerin reacted at once- her hips rolling and her legs parted wide, ready for more.
“-Oh my-! Ha-! She didn’t want me-! She . . . She wanted . . . She wanted us to be casual-!” Kyerin dissolved into moans, rolling her hips harder than before. “Unnie-!”
Hyera kept going, making sure Kyerin would be ready.
“-I really liked her- ha-! Ha-! Unnie! I’m going to-!” Kyerin cried out.
“We can’t have that, not yet anyway,” Hyera stopped right away. She looked down at Kyerin, who was panting heavily. “You want to be loved, don’t you? Is that it? You’re hoping for love?”
Kyerin’s eyes went wide. “Ye- yeah, I am.”
“You won’t find it here, Kyerin.” Hyera replied, tugging hard on the chain. The girl cried out, tears spilling from her eyes. Hyera smirked, then attached the third jaw to Kyerin’s clit. “You won’t find it with strangers.”
Kyerin cried out the moment the jaw was attached. Her lithe body writhed under Hyera- by now, her nipples were dark. The blood trapped by the jaws would make her more sensitive. Hyera leaned down and bit down on one of them, holding Kyerin still as she did. Kyerin let out a cry, it was pathetic almost.
“But I think,” Hyera muttered as she kissed across Kyerin’s chest. Her fingers toyed the the chain, tugging at it, eliciting moans and gasps. “You knew that, didn’t you, Kyerin?”
“Ha-!” Kyerin cried out again and again.
“Answer me, Kyerin.”
Hyera yanked hard on the chain, making her scream. Hyera bit down on Kyerin’s trapped nipple again.
“Ha-! Unnie!” Kyerin shouted, her back arching and her body leaning up into Hyera’s. “Please-!”
“I thought,” Hyera leaned into Kyerin’s ear. “You wanted me to be cruel. Can’t you handle this?”
She let out a small sob. “You . . You won’t love me. . . I know that-! Ha-!”
Hyera smirked again. She slid her fingers inside of Kyerin’s mouth.
“You’re right, I won’t,” Hyera replied. She kept her tone soft and kind. She could see the tears spilling from Kyerin’s big dark eyes. “I don’t need your love. I have my Minjae’s.”
Kyerin’s tongue lapped at Hyera’s fingers, trying to suck them as she moaned.
“How do the clamps feel? Does it hurt? Does it feel good?” Hyera asked, cupping Kyerin’s breast. She ran her thumb over the trapped, darkened bud. At once, Kyerin whimpered. “Does it feel like your body is my toy, to play with as I please?”
Kyerin nodded.
“Good.” Hyera pulled her fingers from Kyerin’s mouth. “Now you’re ready to be fucked, aren’t you?”
Kyerin nodded. “Please, Unnie. Fuck me. I can’t wait any longer.”
“Oh no?” Hyera pulled Kyerin’s leg over her shoulder, making Kyerin turn onto her side. “You can’t wait any longer?
“I . . . I can’t-!” Kyerin reached out for Hyera’s hand, trying to guide it inside of her. Hyera allowed it, pushing into her soaked entrance.
The moan Kyerin made was loud, desperate even. She closed her eyes, biting down on her lower lip. Hyera pumped her arm and at once, Kyerin’s eyes flew open. She must have been surprised at Hyera’s pace, but her moans grew louder and louder.
“Ha-!” Kyerin cried out as she attempted to roll her hips.
Hyera tightened her grip on Kyerin’s thigh, leaning into her.
“How’s that? Hyera asked, slowing her pace now. She slowed until she was simply just massaging Kyerin’s g spot, stroking her gently. Kyerin’s moans were now pathetic whimpers.
“Unnie-! Ha-!” Kyerin tossed back her head.
“You don’t cum so easily, do you? Am I not cruel enough for you?” Hyera asked.
Kyerin glanced back at Hyera, smirking. “Not enough- no- ha-!”
Hyera slid out her fingers and pushed them into Kyerin’s open mouth as she whimpered.
Not cruel enough? Hyera wondered if Kyerin would be as fun to play with as Minjae, in that sense. Being cruel to Minjae was second nature. It came as easily as fucking her. Hyera lingered for a moment, watching as Kyerin sucked her fingers of her own wetness.
It was hot, but Hyera wondered how sexy Minjae would look doing the same. Hyera’s stomach clenched at the thought.
“Get on your hands and knees, Kyerin. I’ll show you cruel.” Hyera said once she had enough of imaging Minjae in the same position.
Kyerin got on all fours on the bed. The chain hung loosely from her tits, pulling them down. Her breathing became shorter. Could she not endure the clamps?
“I didn’t say on the bed, Kyerin. On the floor. Right now.”
With a smirk, Kyerin obeyed. She faced the wall, her ass up and high. Hyera could see a semblance of a tremble in her arms. Hyera took her time, observing her.
“Perhaps I should leave you here?” Hyera asked, thinking of how she had left Minjae tied to the bed once. “Do you think you could handle it?”
“I would for you, Unnie,” Kyerin said, glancing up at her.
“Would you?” Hyera bent down and cupped Kyerin’s chin. “And if I didn’t fuck you? If you don’t cum?”
Kyerin swallowed hard. “Well . . .”
Hyera smirked. “You don’t want cruelty for the sake of cruelty. You just can’t get off as easily as others.”
Tilting Kyerin’s chin higher, the girl strained visibly.
“I think that you’ve tested the clamps well enough, haven’t you?” Hyera asked.
“You’re done playing with me already?” Kyerin asked.
Hyera smirked. “I’m far from done.”
Once Kyerin was on the bed once more, Hyera made sure Kyerin couldn’t speak a single word. She licked and sucked Kyerin’s trapped clit, making her scream as Hyera fingered her. The wetness on the bed wasn’t so surprising.
As Hyera slowled her pace, thinking of how Minjae would cum a dozen times over the simple stimulation of her three sensitive points, she heard her phone vibrate. Hyera glanced over- she saw Minjae’s name flash on the screen and immediately, she removed her fingers from Kyerin.
“Ha-! Unnie-?” Kyerin began when Hyera leaned over her to grab her phone.
“My lovely Minjae is calling. Stay quiet.” Hyera said at once. Finally, after hearing virtually nothing from Minjae since she had asked for help, there was that phone call. She swiped the screen and accepted the call. “Ah, hello Cho Minjae!”
Kyerin whimpered but Hyera only pressed a finger to her lips.
“Unnie, please, I can explain.” Minjae began. She sounded frantic, worried.
“You’ve finally pried Kang Yuna off of you long enough to call me! I’m surprised!” Hyera replied, scoffing almost. She glanced down at Kyerin, at her flushed face. She grabbed the chain. “I’d love to talk, but I’m quite busy.”
Hyera pulled on the chain, making sure that Kyerin wouldn’t be able to hold in her voice. “Shh, they’ll hear you,” Hyera Unnie cooed softly, reaching between Kyerin’s legs now. She was still as wet. “Cum quietly, now.”
“Unnie-!”
“Minjae, I must go.” Hyera said with a sigh. “If you wish to talk to me, you’ll have to make time for me. You know where I’ll be tomorrow evening. How about you?”
Hyera ended the call and tossed aside her phone. She resumed pumping her hand and at once, Kyerin’s cries and the clenching Hyera felt on her hand told her what she needed to hear- Kyerin was cumming. The girl writhed, crying out so loudly, Hyera was sure someone would hear it.
“Good girl.” Hyera praised once Kyerin was done. She leaned down and kissed Kyerin’s forehead.
“What do you think of the clamps, Unnie?” Kyerin asked once she regained her breath. It took her some time, but it was punctuated with gasps as Hyera removed each jaw from Kyerin.
“I think they’ll do perfectly.” Hyera replied, toying with the jaw once more. “But more importantly, Kyerin, so will you.”
Kyerin smiled. “So you’ll call me again?”
“Almost certainly,” Hyera replied.
Hyera wasn’t finished with Kyerin, that was for sure.
Notes:
Hello!! Welcome to day two!!
Here is our lovely Hyera, always planning ahead, always looking for ways to further her plans and get what she wants out of them! I love writing from Hyera's pov. There's always layers and she doesn't do what she does for nothing. There's always a reason.
I'm excited for an upcoming chapter- I want to post it this week but can't unless I double post either tomorrow or thursday. Either way, it'll shake the plot up a bit and we'll be advancing. When writing Midnight Ice, I didn't realize how much Hyera's pov chapters would bog down the plot, but I didn't have the heart to exclude them. I swear the plot moved faster when reading it all in one go haha.
Enjoy and see you tomorrow!!
Chapter 27: Chapter Thirteen: Ruminating
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“Whenever you’re ready, Yuna,” Minji said softly the next morning.
Yuna rubbed her eyes. She had heard the alarms but she had no urge to get up and start the day. She was heavy, in every limb and every thought that crossed her mind.
Minji swung her legs off of their bed and stretched, letting out a groan. “I’m making breakfast, alright?”
The only sign of life Yuna gave was an agreeing sort of noise. She waited until she heard Minji’s soft padding of her feet before rolling over and grabbing her phone.
She opened up social media, hoping for a distraction. She scrolled and scrolled but nothing of interest popped up. She checked her emails, but gave up on that, too. Yuna gave up and forced herself out of bed.
She pulled on a cotton robe over her pyjamas and slipped on her slippers. She headed to the kitchen, where she found Minji at the stove. She could smell the fish she was grilling and the aromatics of the soup she was preparing. The rice maker was lit up, currently in the process of making a fresh batch of rice.
“I hope you’re not making too much,” Yuna warned, pointing at the rice maker. She sat at the table, trying to push away the need for a cigarette or two. The dogs made their way over to greet her and Yuna scratched behind each of their ears.
Minji pouted. “What if I wanted to make some fried rice tomorrow? Or some kimbap for lunch?”
“I just don’t want it to go to waste, that’s all.” Yuna said with a sigh.
“I won’t waste it!” Minji said at once.
Yuna glanced over at Minji’s phone, which she left on the table. It vibrated softly. Minji didn’t notice. Yuna picked it up and saw that there was a new message.
From Oh Hyera.
“Hyera’s texting you?” Yuna asked, holding up Minji’s phone.
Minji spun around and grabbed the phone. “Yes! We started talking when I asked about Cho Minjae.” She explained. She tapped her phone a few times. “Ah! Hyera is so lucky! She’s in Jeju!”
She held up her phone and showed Yuna a photo of Hyera in her button up dress- a little on the conservative side for her- outside of the airport. The brilliant blue sky and the clear, nearly clear sea behind her. She was smiling, radiant even.
As if she hadn’t destroyed everything.
“What’s she doing there?” Yuna asked, glancing away.
Minji shrugged. “Family stuff.”
“Is she with anyone?” Yuna asked.
“I don’t know.” Minji replied. “Why? Do you think-?”
“-it doesn’t matter what I think.” Yuna said sharply.
Minji didn’t reply. Instead, she closed her phone and returned to the oven.
Guilt sank in at once. Yuna watched as Minji finished up breakfast and then decided to prepare the tea in return.
“I’m sorry,” Yuna said after a moment. She filled the kettle with water and placed it on the heating stand. “Hyera told me something horrible last night.”
Minji stood at the oven, watching over the slab of fish. “What did she tell you?”
Yuna took in a shaky breath. “Cho Minjae. . . She was dating her all along.”
“Hyera? Dating Cho Minjae?” Minji asked, eyebrows raised. “Really?”
“While I was seeing her, she was sleeping with Hyera.” Yuna added in a low voice. Her heart was aching again. Saying it outloud made it more real.
“I’m sorry, Yuna,” Minji offered at once. She turned off the heat and wrapped her arms around the middle of Yuna’s waist. “I’m so sorry.”
“Hyera . . . Hyera liked to set me up with girls. I . . I told her to stop and then she pulled this . . .” Yuna hugged Minji back.
“I . . .” Minji glanced up at Yuna, furrowing her brow. “I thought she loved you.”
“I have no idea how she felt about me.” Yuna admitted. The ache was unbearable now. She could feel her eyes stinging.
Minji had nothing more to say. Her hold on Yuna’s middle was a little tighter, her face buried into Yuna’s shoulder.
“We need to eat breakfast, Minji,” Yuna muttered, holding back the tears that were coming.
“I know.” Minji replied, her voice muffled. “I just . . . It’s so sad, isn’t it?”
It was. It was so horribly sad.
When Minji finally moved away, the kettle was ready. Yuna poured out two cups of black tea and Minji readied the dishes for breakfast. They ate in silence, only punctuated by the whines of still hungry dogs.
*
The day moved like a blur, a misty haze that passed too quickly. It was too much of a routine, and it was too easy for Yuna to slip into an automatic workflow alone in her office. Luckily, there were no meetings to participate in.
She bought a pack of cigarettes during her lunch break, despite her previous promise not to buy a pack if she still had some cigarettes at home.The shopping centre was so close, and the shop that sold them was selling them for cheap. Yuna found herself not caring. She stole away to the rooftop of the WeiYoppu building, lit the cigarette and took a deep, long inhale.
It was massively satisfying.
Yuna watched the streets below, trying to lose herself in the endorphins of a good smoke, in the small relief of her pain, but Cho Minjae lingered in her thoughts once more.
Hyera hadn’t gone into details, but Yuna found herself almost not caring. What details could there be that could ever make a singular difference in the outcome?
Hyera sent Minjae to her. Yuna took the bait. She fell in love. Minjae broke her heart.
What was the point? Why? That was what plagued Yuna suddenly. Why would Hyera do such a thing? And why did Minjae agree to help?
A dark thought flitted through her mind- Minjae just wanted a good lay.
Yuna shook her head, recalling how Minjae had pushed her away so many times before she was ready.
Was that part of the plan?
Yuna took another long, deep inhale. No, the details didn’t matter. Hyera and Minjae did this together. For what purpose? Did it matter? No.
Resting her head against the chain link fence that lined the edge of the roof, Yuna closed her eyes. There was no way she’d get answers through pointless rumination. It hurt too much and led to nowhere. She’d have to get answers from the source.
The answer was so obvious, but Yuna denied it a little longer.
She wasn’t ready.
Notes:
Hi everyone!! It's a Yuna chapter!! I feel like it's been ages since we had a pov chapter that wasn't Hyera.
Poor Yuna gets the short end of the stick- she doesn't understand all of Hyera's grand machinations, all she knows is that she and Minjae used and hurt her.
Writing for the mystery fic is going super well! I can't wait to share more!
See you tomorrow and enjoy!! Comments are always welcomed!!
Chapter 28: Chapter Fourteen: An Outing
Chapter Text
The day after Hyera Unnie left, Minjae got dressed for the first time in what felt like ages. It almost felt foreign to her to wear a dress, to wear shoes. She had outgrown her bra, and would need a new one. That was the plan of attack today.
Minjae took the train to the shopping centre near the market. It was well populated- with the summer on its way and humidity worsening, everyone wanted to avoid the heat. The air conditioning made Minjae wish she had brought a sweater to wear, to cover herself a bit more.
She wore a summer dress, loose fitting and with a flared skirt. When Hyera Unnie had gone through her clothes, she kept only the ones that were the most alluring on Minjae. The sweatpants, the loose t-shirts, the yoga pants and anything frumpy were thrown out a long time ago.
Minjae couldn’t remember the last time she went clothing shopping for herself. Every time she needed something, Hyera Unnie ordered it online and had it shipped directly to their condo. Panties, silk robes, fancy dresses, and skimpy bikinis only. She gazed longingly at the window display of summer wear- the bathing suits, the dresses, the sandals and the shorts. She caught a glimpse of herself in the window.
She looked naked without the red leather collar.
She felt naked without the red leather collar.
Minjae placed a finger against the hollow of her neck, where the medallion ought to lay. She hardly went without wearing it. Hyera Unnie demanded it of her. A good slave wore her collar at all times and Minjae belonged to Hyera, after all.
She was a good slave.
Minjae kept walking until she reached the boutique she wanted. She browsed the bras, checking the sizing of each one. Some were push up, some were made of dainty lace, some were padded. They came in every colour and size. Minjae grabbed a bunch and tried them on.
She found a few that fit well enough, that gave her a shape that she hadn’t seen in some time. Minjae wondered what Hyera Unnie would think.
Would she have wanted her to step out of the condo? Without her collar?
Or would she have made her do something ridiculous to potentially embarrass her? Minjae couldn’t believe that Hyera Unnie had made her go out without panties not that long ago. The memory of it made her blush terribly.
Minjae bought the bras with her own money and left the boutique. She went to the food court and bought herself a small meal. She wasn’t that hungry, but she wanted a reason to linger. She ordered a bento box lunch and an iced tea, then found a spot tucked away in the food court to eat in silence.
After a prolonged lunch, Minjae left the shopping centre. She passed by the corner shops on her way out, selling cheap booze and cigarettes, the crowded sidewalks with busy people walking to and fro. The longer Minjae walked, the more she recognized the area she was in.
Had her feet carried her to the same neighbourhood as the WeiYoppu building?
Minjae kept walking, her heart pounding. She turned a few corners, hurrying her pace.
She needed to know she was in the wrong place.
But no, she glanced up and saw the towering building with the big bright letters.
How many times would Minjae find herself in front of the WeiYoppu building?
Her heart ached so terribly, so suddenly.
Kang Yuna was there.
The Kang Yuna she had rejected over three months ago.
The Kang Yuna she had once loved.
Minjae stood there, frozen.
No, it wasn’t an option.
She couldn’t.
She spun around and ran the other direction.
Chapter 29: Fourteenth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“It’s been so long, Minji!” Hyera called out, clapping her hands together.
Minji grabbed Hyera’s hands and grinned. “I’m so glad you could meet me! You’re not busy with your classes?”
“I have time for my good friend. What about you?” Hyera freed her hand to wave off her worries. “What have you been up to?”
Hyera had to admit, she had almost forgotten about Kim Minji. In the wake of the developments with Minjae and her relationship with Yuna, and of course, meeting up with Kyerin once in a while, Hyera had far too much to think about than the idiot girl who once stood in her way. Out of sight, out of mind, right?
It was the biggest surprise when Kim Minji texted her for the first time since late spring when it was barely December.
Minji opted to wait to reply until they entered the café. With the chilly weather, they both ordered hot coffees. Minji’s coffee was more of a café moka with a heavy dole of whipped cream. Hyera got a cappuccino.
“I just moved back to Seoul, actually,” Minji began once they found a booth far away from the other customers.
“You were out of town?” Hyera raised her eyebrow. “I thought you were still here, just in secrecy.”
Minji shook her head. There was a sadness in her eyes that told Hyera that joking was not the right move. She pursed her lips. It wasn’t going to be the fun outing she initially thought it was going to be.
“I was with my grandfather in the countryside,” Minji said quietly. She held her moka tightly for warmth. “He was ill and I’m his favourite granddaughter.”
“I see,” Hyera nodded, taking a small sip of her drink.
“He moved to a specialised home. His care was getting too specific for me to handle on my own.” Minji added. She worried her bottom lip, staring into her drink.
“I’m sorry to hear that, Minji,” Hyera replied. “So does that mean you’ll return to campus next semester?”
Minji shrugged. “I’ve been doing pretty well in my online classes. I . . I don’t want to cause more trouble.”
“I’m sure everyone’s forgotten about the rant, if that’s what’s bothering you.” Hyera said soothingly. “There’s been a rumour about the theatre department that’s been very popular lately. People move on.”
Minji glanced away. “I’m not talking about the student body.”
Hyera watched Minji for a moment. Perhaps there would be some fun to be had after all.
“You mean Yuna?” Hyera asked, leaning on her hand, elbow propped.
“I . . . I’ve been texting her.” Minji began.
“Oh?” Hyera tried to remain as neutral as possible. Minjae hadn’t mentioned that Yuna was texting Minji. Was Kang Yuna keeping secrets? “And how did that go?”
“She’s dating Cho Minjae. She’s . . . She’s a freshman and she’s in the newspaper club.” Minji replied. “They’ve gotten really serious. She lives with her, Hyera!”
Hyera nodded, trying to act as shocked and as sympathetic as possible. “Can you believe our Yuna is dating?” Hyera asked. “She has been secretive lately.”
“They’ve been dating since before I left!” Minji added, clutching her mug now. “I can’t believe it!”
“Yuna won’t stay with her very long,” Hyera warned with a wave of her hand. “It’s not like her to stay with just one girl. You know that, Minji.”
Minji sat there, flushed. “I . . . Do you think they’re going to break up?”
“Eventually,” Hyera replied casually.
Eventually would be the right word. Now that Minjae was living with Yuna, after months of dating and no sign of trouble, the endgame was near.
But with Minji around now, Hyera wondered if she could be of use.
“I mean, are you still dating Han Jihoon?” Hyera asked, leaning back in her seat. She hadn’t heard from him, either, in ages. Hyera might have crossed him on campus, but if she did, she couldn’t tell him apart from the dozens and dozens of indistinguishable milquetoast boys.
Minji shook her head. “I broke up with him before I left Seoul.” She answered, looking sullen again. “I feel so bad, but . .. But I think I have feelings for Yuna.”
Hyera’s eyebrows rose. “Oh? You do?”
Last Hyera knew, Yuna’s feelings were one sided and then her heart was captured by Cho Minjae. Minji must have had a change of heart as well. Jealousy was a powerful force.
“But I don’t know what to do . . .” Minji sighed. “Yuna’s so happy with Minjae. So much happier than before.”
Hyera tapped her bottom lip. “Is she?”
“What do you mean?” Minji asked, frowning. “Yuna loves her. I know she does.”
“Even if she does, how could she forget you? Minji, do you know how long Kang Yuna has loved you for?” Hyera asked.
Minii gulped, then shook her head.
“Probably longer than you know.” Hyera replied. “And Cho Minjae is probably just a distraction. I bet she’s just biding her time until she finds someone else. Or, someone else becomes available.”
Hyera gave Minji a pointed look.
“Me?” Minji pointed to herself. “Do you think Yuna is waiting for me?”
Hyera shrugged. “It’s an idea. I could be wrong.”
If Kang Yuna truly loved Minjae, she’d push away Minji’s advances. If she didn’t, then it would give Cho Minjae something to do than lay on her back. Either way, Hyera would be able to watch the aftermath.
“If your feelings are genuine, and if Yuna feels the same way, then there shouldn’t be an issue, Minji,” Hyera added. She reached out her hand and clasped it over Minji’s. “I have faith in your love story. I think you will win Kang Yuna’s heart. Like I said, Minjae is nothing more than a distraction.”
Minji hesitated, staring at Hyera’s hand on hers. She then glanced up at her and nodded. “You’re right, Hyera! Yuna and I are meant to be! I’ll win her back!”
Hyera smiled. “I knew you would get back to your usual, happy self.”
“You’re the best, Hyera!” Minji exclaimed. “With your confirmation, I know that I can win her back!”
Hyera smirked into her mug of half finished cappuccino. With Kim Minji back on the playing field, Hyera wondered if she ought to let it all play out on its own, or have a heavier hand.
She was so close to Yuna’s heartbreak, she could almost taste it.
Notes:
Hello everyone!! Two chapters today so that I can post a big chapter tomorrow!
In Minjae's chapter, I wanted her to have a bit of freedom, a bit of fresh air and of course, to almost cross paths with Yuna. Normally when Hyera goes on vacation, she brings Minjae. This is the first time she leaves for somewhere without her.
In this flashback, it's Hyera up to her old tricks again. It's like she uses people as her barbie dolls to enact the storyline she wants and honestly it's fun to write.
Speaking of which, secret fic writing is going super well! I've been a writing up a storm and it feels nice.
Enjoy the chapter!!! See you tomorrow! Comments are always appreciated!!
Chapter 30: Chapter Fifteen: The Art Museum
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“Let’s have a date!” Minji said once Yuna had her morning coffee.
Yuna glanced up and raised an eyebrow. It was finally Saturday and there were only household obligations to occupy her. Even Woong and Siwoo, who were currently frolicking in the shared backyard, couldn’t distract Yuna.
They had tried valiantly.
“A date?” Yuna repeated. She let out a sigh. “I don’t know, Minji. I don’t think I could really do that for you right now.”
“It’s the perfect distraction! We can walk around, eat a nice lunch, maybe have a beer?” Minji offered, clapping her hands together. “Plus, there’s an art museum I’ve heard so many good things about! Contemplating art will get things off of your mind, won’t it?”
Yuna pursed her lips. “I’m not sure about that.”
“If not art, then we could go shopping! Didn’t we need to pick up things for the dogs?” Minji asked. “I want to spoil them with toys and treats!”
“The vet said you needed to buy them the organic treats, Minji. Not the cheap pet store stuff.” Yuna warned.
It was Minji’s turn to purse her lips. “It's not my fault if Siwoo is fussy.”
Yuna smiled slightly. Siwoo was fussy and it was entirely Minji’s fault. She had been sneaking her treats for ages when Yuna was busy with Woong.
“Fine.” Yuna sighed. Maybe getting out of the house would do her some good.
Spending time with Minji would do her some good.
*
After a quick breakfast, Yuna and Minji took the long train into the heart of Seoul. The train was also crowded, filled with young people and aunties on their way to shop and spend the day in the busiest parts of the city. Yuna tried her best to focus on Minji.
“You look very pretty today,” Yuna said, squeezing her hand.
“Thanks!” Minji grinned. She wore an oversized blouse with rolled up sleeves. She had tiny bike shorts that were hidden under said blouse. Her knee length socks made her look younger than she was. “You’re as beautiful as ever, Yuna!”
Yuna had tried to focus on her own outfit, to look good for their day out and for Minji. Long, breezy pants, sandals, a crop top. She had an open shirt to cover her bare shoulders.
It would have been easy to slip into ruminations about Cho Minjae and Hyera, so instead, Yuna made conversation. She asked about the art museum, about which one Minji had wanted to visit- something about a female Korean sculptor who had suffered through hardships to make unique art. It sounded interesting enough. Yuna was curious to see.
They plotted out their day with their phones. First stop- the art museum, then lunch a few blocks away at a nearby restaurant. Afterwards, a quick train ride to the organic pet food store (to Minji’s dismay) and then depending on the time, maybe some window shopping before heading home.
All Yuna had to do was live in the moment.
*
The art museum was a cold grey building with arches before the front doors. Surrounding the building itself were tall, lush green trees and a path that led from the gardens. Yuna paid the entrance fee and led the way inside.
It was white and spacious, with tall windows and glass catwalks. Immediately they were greeted with a sign of where to go, of which exhibitions to visit first. Minji chose the Korean sculptor, and Yuna agreed upon her choice.
The wooden sculptures lined the exhibition floor. Yuna took time to observe each one. A few sculptures looked as though they threatened to topple over, to fall at the slightest breeze. Some were sturdier, at the bottom.
“It’s all about yin and yang,” Minji said in her most serious, art contemplating voice.
Yuna smiled. “So the signs say.”
“What do you think?” Minji asked, crossing her arms. “Are you contemplating the art?”
“I am.” Yuna replied, walking around a more colourful sculpture. “Deeply.”
“Good because I need you to explain it,” Minji said, groaning.
Yuna let out a laugh that was louder than intended. The other museum goers and art contemplates gave her a disapproving stare.
And in the crowd, Yuna caught sight of a cherry red braid.
Her heart stopped and without even thinking or saying a word, Yuna chased after that cherry red braid.
“Yuna!” Minji called out at once, but Yuna ignored her.
She picked up her pace as she moved through the exhibit. She could barely see who she was chasing anymore.
She didn’t even consider the other possibilities. She just ran.
A flesh of deep red rounded a corner, so Yuna followed. She wished she had run more with the dogs and smoked less cigarettes. She saw the curvy figure who was outrunning her disappear through glass doors, out to the gardens.
There was no doubt about it.
Yuna kept running, bypassing a group of foreign tourists who were listening to the tour guide. Once outside, in the high humidity of the mid day, Yuna was lost. The gardens were nothing more than tall trees, colourful bushels of flowers and towering, human-like sculptures. Yuna lingered, then made a choice.
Running down a cobblestone path that was so winding, Yuna wasn’t sure if she was even following anyone. She kept her pace until her lungs ached and her throat burned.
Then, there she was, in a similar state of strung out and exhausted.
Cho Minjae, in a white and blue summer dress, her cherry red braid a little longer than Yuna had recalled it being. She was panting, hands on her knees.
“Cho Minjae!” Yuna called out at once.
Minjae glanced up at her. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to-!”
“Where have you been?” Yuna shouted.
For the longest time, she wasn’t sure what she would say to Cho Minjae if she ever crossed paths with her again.
She wanted to apologise for every wrongdoing. She wanted to beg for her back, she wanted to know if she was well, if she was happy, if they could ever be friends.
Now? It was all out the window. Now, there was anger, confusion, and denial. She wanted to grab her, to demand answers.
She wanted to grab her and kiss her.
Instead, she stood there.
“Ya! Where have you been?” Yuna asked again, her voice breaking.
It was too much to bear.
Cho Minjae stared at her. She was flushed, panting heavily still. She was still absolutely beautiful and Yuna hated that she was still attracted to her despite what she knew now. Despite the fact that she had been betrayed by that pretty face before.
“Here, in Seoul,” Minjae replied, lowering her eyes. “I didn’t go far.”
“With Oh Hyera, right?” Yuna asked.
Minjae stood there, frozen.
“I know everything, Minjae. Hyera told me.” Yuna continued. She took a step forward but Minjae did not move. “I . . . I should hate you. I should despise you.”
Minjae’s eyes widened. “Kang Yuna . . .”
Yuna scoffed as she bridged the distance between them. Her hands found the small of Minjae’s waist. Overtaken by muscle memory, Yuna pulled Minjae closer, snaking one arm around her waist until there was nothing between them but their thin summer clothes. Minjae was hot, trembling slightly.
Tears were building in her eyes.
So were Yuna’s.
“I told you, it’s just Yuna,” Yuna muttered, leaning in and kissing Minjae in a single swift movement too quick to be stopped. Her lips were still soft, still as sweet.
At once, Yuna felt Minjae’s body melt against her. She moaned, even, shyly kissing her back. Yuna felt that familiar rush of need, of that ache she felt with Minjae so many times.
Then, Yuna pulled away, covering her mouth.
“I should want nothing to do with you.” Yuna said, pulling Minjae into another hug, unable to stop herself. She felt her soft breasts against her own chest, pressed up against her. Despite her curves, she felt so small in her arms. Had she lost weight? Why did Yuna care?
“Let me go,” Minjae muttered.
Yuna held on. “Tell me, Minjae, tell me the truth right now.”
The silence between them was loud. Yuna’s heart was pounding in her ears.
“Did you . . . Did you ever love me?” Yuna asked, her breath hitching. She almost didn’t want to know but she needed to know. She needed to hear Minjae say it.
No, I never did. You were but a part of our game.
How could I ever love a pathetic person like you?
You’re a coward, Kang Yuna. I couldn’t love you, even if I tried!
Minjae let out a shaky breath.
“Of course I loved you.” Minjae admitted in a small, tiny voice. Like a hum on the wind. “My feelings were true.”
Yuna held onto Minjae tighter.
“But I don’t deserve you. I can never have you.” Minjae muttered. She pushed against Yuna but Yuna refused to let go.
Her heart was lighter than it ever had been before.
“Minjae . . . Minjae. . .” Yuna leaned in and kissed Minjae once more, this time, deeper. With more passion. She urged Minjae’s mouth open with her own, flickering her tongue inside. Yuna pulled Minjae against her, harder than before.
Minjae pushed Yuna again, with more force this time. Yuna finally broke free of the kiss, taking a few shocked steps back.
“I told you to stop!” Minjae said at once, her face was red and tears were streaming down her cheeks. “I belong to Hyera Unnie!”
Yuna’s eyes went wide. Minjae covered her lips and shook her head. Frozen in place, Yuna could only watch as Minjae ran off.
Belonged? To Hyera?
Yuna finally turned around and saw that Minji had finally caught up.
Or rather, she had been there the whole time, her eyes filled with tears and her face stricken with emotion.
*
Minjae didn’t even finish her notes for her article.
She left the museum running, not stopping until she reached a train station.
Her lips were burning.
Kang Yuna had kissed her.
Kang Yuna knew everything and still kissed her.
And Minjae had confessed that she had always loved her.
Her head was suddenly light. She cradled it with one hand once she reached the cooled train station. She bought herself a bottle of water and sat on a bench. It felt like a dream- the heat of the day, the fragrance of the flowers. . .
Kang Yuna, as beautiful as ever, with her piercing blue eyes.
How did they cross paths in the largest city in the country? How could they ever find each other again? Minjae held her head, trying to step herself from crying.
Of course she was angry.
Of course she was betrayed.
Minjae had betrayed Yuna so many times. She had never not given herself to another when they were together. There was Hyera, who owned her. Her stepbrother, whom she couldn’t escape. Yang Kyerin, who barely had to try and she dominated her so easily.
Tears were falling now but the other train goers ignored her for making a scene. She had no right to be upset. She had no right to be heartbroken.
This was all her doing, after all.
*
Minjae spent the rest of the day in the guest bedroom.
She wrote what she could for the article, using the internet to supplement the holes in her notes. She hated the idea of it, but she had no choice. Minjae wasn’t going to step foot in there again and Mrs Choi was already too lenient with her.
It was only a matter of time before running into Yuna again. It made sense, didn’t it? Probability and such? Most likely not at the art museum again, but still.
She gave up on her article after an hour and then decided to go through her bins of clothes.
She had hid her new bras there, since Hyera Unnie never entered the guest bedroom without cause. Minjae had hidden loads of things- books she had bought with her own money, her laptop, her clothes that she could wear on rare occasions and one thing she had kept safe from Hyera Unnie all these years.
The hibiscus pendant.
Minjae kept it in the same small jewellery box, under a couple of sweaters and a few books. She rarely took it out, scared that Hyera would see it. Minjae held the thin chain, admiring the red panels of fake glass in the sunlight as it oscillated.
Minjae wondered if Yuna still had hers.
She held the hibiscus pendant in her palm, closing her hand tightly. What point was it to think like that?
Just because Yuna kissed her, didn’t mean she still wanted her.
Just because Minjae had loved her once, didn’t mean she still did.
Just because Minjae ached for more of her, didn’t mean the same of Yuna.
The edges of the pendent dug into her hand. It was still in one piece.
Minjae replaced it in its box, in its hiding place. She put away the boxes and left the guest room. She undressed from her street clothes and tossed them immediately in the washing machine.
She needed to rid herself of the evidence of her excursion.
Minjae slid on a fresh pair of cotton panties and a new silk robe. This one was in an off white colour. She tied the sash tightly at the narrowest part of her waist and then picked up her cherry red collar.
Her heart ached so heavily.
She belonged to Hyera Unnie. That would never change.
That would never change because they were in love. They were in love and inseparable.
And who would want Cho Minjae? Who could replace Hyera Unnie?
Yuna didn’t want her. She shouldn't want her. Minjae wouldn’t let her want her.
Minjae wrapped the leather around her neck and attached the buckle. In the mirror, she smoothed out the silk of her robe against her breasts, her stomach and thighs.
She was a good slave, a good girl.
And she’d obey like she always would.
Notes:
They finally crossed paths!!!
When I was writing Midnight Ice, I made sure that Yuna and Minjae wouldn't cross paths for a long while, but they would be barely missing each other. It would be too easy if they were in contact with each other, but at the same time, Hyera is overprotective of Minjae. She's very picky about how she shares her and it seems like Yuna is the one person she doesn't want Minjae with.
Please enjoy and comments are always appreciated!! The next chapter will be on monday!
Chapter 31: Fifteenth Intermission
Chapter Text
The double date took some planning but it was worth the effort in the end.
Hyera had to plead with her father to let her have one of the reserved dining rooms at the hotel. Christmas Eve was one of the busiest holidays for the Hotel, but Hyera managed to reserve it.
Yang Kyerin loved the chance to act as Hyera’s girlfriend for the evening, even donning the collar Hyera had bought for her. It was simple and made of velvet, but it would destroy Minjae. Only she would understand its significance.
Yuna, surprisingly, agreed to the double date. Hyera was prepared to beg and annoy her, but Yuna needed none of that. Minjae’s company must have softened her edges, made her more agreeable.
Everything was in place until Hyera caught the pendent around Minjae’s neck. A red hibiscus flower, made of stained glass. A cheap little thing that clashed with Minjae’s lovely hair.
It made Hyera angry. She hid her anger well, burying it under her smile and exclamations of admiration for Kyerin. She even avoided longing gazes. She had to keep up the facade that she didn’t know Minjae. She had to pretend as if she hadn’t touched every part of her body, that she hadn’t claimed every inch of her. That she hadn't made her undone a hundred times over.
Hyera hated it. She hated that hibiscus pendant. She hated that Yuna wore a blue teardrop version of it.
It was so cloying. So disgusting.
It had to stop.
Hyera brought Minjae into the bathroom, under the guise of picking out wines themselves.
In the empty bathroom, Hyera’s fingers found the hibiscus pendant that laid on Minjae’s sternum. Minjae was holding her breath, staring up at her.
“What’s this?” Hyera asked, frowning down at it. It felt as cheap as it looked.
Minjae glanced down at once.
“A gift from Kang Yuna, isn’t it?” Hyera asked. Cheap plastic that resembled glass. She wanted to tear it off of her. “She has one, too. A matching set?”
Minjae averted her gaze. “A gift from our summer vacation at the beach.”
“Ah yes, I recall now.” Hyera almost scoffed. Since when was Yuna so sentimental? “I’ve never seen you wear it before.”
Minjae didn’t reply, instead, her gaze was once again diverted, and her cheeks pink.
“If I could, without arousing suspicion,” Hyera leaned into Minjae’s ear. Minjae smelled of jasmine, of something floral. “I’d rip it off of you and crush it.”
Minjae gulped.
Hyera wanted to rip it off of Minjae’s pretty little neck and crush the plastic under her heel. She wanted to hear it crack and break, to snap apart.
How could Minjae wear that pendant in front of her?
Did she think she belonged to someone else?
No.
She couldn't have that.
Cho Minjae belonged to her.
Hyera pinned Minjae to the counter, her hand reaching under Minjae’s skirt. She hardly fought back as Hyera peeled off the layers and pushed her fingers inside. She was wet, as if she knew Hyera would have her way with her.
She didn’t want to think of any other reason Minjae might be wet.
Talking of cuffs and what colour her collar ought to be only fueled Hyera further. She was relentless and didn’t stop until she heard Minjae stifle back a cry, her muscles clamping down as the proof of her orgasm dripped down her thighs.
“You’re so easy to tease, Minjae,” Hyera couldn’t help but laugh. “You can’t hold back, can you?”
As usual, Minjae was focussed on the details, but not the big picture. Why a double date? Why Yang Kyerin? Why now?
Couldn’t Minjae see where it was all going? The larger plot at hand?
“It’ll all be clear soon enough, Minjae. You’ll see.”
“Unnie,” Minjae began quietly, her cheeks still pink. “I . . . I don’t understand.”
“Why don’t you ask Kang Yuna what happened with Kim Minji?” Hyera pulled Minjae closer by the waist. She kissed her gently, even cupping her face. Despite her earlier lewdness, Minjae almost looked innocent. “And then come visit me tomorrow night.”
Minjae nodded, worry descending upon her face. Hyera wondered if it would break Minjae’s heart to hear that Minji had kissed Yuna and she didn’t stop her.
The distressed phone call Hyera had to endure with Minji about the whole affair made her ears ring at just the memory of it.
“You’re a good girl, Cho Minjae,” Hyera muttered, her eyes soft and caring now. She stroked Minjae’s cheek with her thumb. “You obey your Unnie so well.”
Chapter 32: Chapter Sixteen: Aftermath
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
They left the museum at once.
Minji held back tears until they were long gone, and well onto the train ride back home.
“Minji, I’m sorry,” Yuna said, the words feeling pathetic on her tongue. She ignored her.
Was that all she was capable of saying? Minji was her lover, her best friend, her everything. And Minji had seen Yuna kiss Minjae passionately, in a tight embrace. Surrounded by flowers in the seclusion, far from prying eyes.
What could Yuna ever imagine to say to rectify the situation?
Minji cried silently on the train home, listening to music on her phone. Yuna sat there, utterly helpless. She replayed the scenes in her mind.
She had chased Minjae into the gardens and kissed her. Not once, but twice.
She held her in her arms, tight against her chest. Like a precious thing she hoped to never lose.
Why? Yuna’s stomach was a heavy pit, aching with pain and regret and yet, her heart beat rapidly. Her core had tightened when she kissed Minjae.
The last time she had kissed Minjae, she had almost undressed her, almost fucked her in her office.
Yuna held her head in her hands. How shameful she was. How pathetic.
Minji deserved better than that.
*
Once in the apartment, Minji took the wireless headphones out of her ears and glared at Yuna.
“What’s going on?” She asked at once.
Her face was less red, but her eyes still were. Yuna swallowed hard.
“I . . .” Yuna didn’t know what to say. She couldn’t explain herself in a way that was fair to Minji.
“You still have feelings for her, don’t you?” Minji asked, but it sounded like a statement.
Yuna glanced away. She couldn’t lie to Minji yet she couldn’t bring herself to say it, either.
“After everything? After what Hyera told you?” Minji’s voice became high and tense. Yuna didn’t need to look to know that she was going to break down in tears again. “Cho Minjae was sleeping with Hyera the whole time! She wasn’t-! She wasn’t faithful to you!”
Yuna hung her head. “She said she loved me, back then.” She admitted in a quiet voice.
“Yuna!” Minji scolded, wiping away some tears. “That doesn’t change the fact that she was sleeping with someone else!”
No, it didn’t. Yuna held herself, daring to look Minji’s way. She was crying, tears flowing down her cheeks. Her big, green eyes filled with emotion. Her tiny frame quivering with anger, with disappointment. The pit in Yuna’s stomach widened and deepened.
“Why did you kiss her?” Minji demanded, her voice breaking. “Tell me now!”
Yuna grabbed Minji’s hand, holding it tightly. “I. . . I haven’t been honest, Minji.”
Minji stood still, letting out shuddering breaths.
Yuna wanted to keep the secret in her heart for as long as possible, but she knew it had to come out one day. It was too big to bear on her own. It would overshadow her heart, her intentions, her actions eventually.
“I . . . I still have feelings for Cho Minjae,” Yuna admitted in a low voice. She tried to keep her eyes on Minji, but it was too painful.
Minji bit down on her lip, trembled, then let out a loud sob. She yanked away her hand and spun around.
“I saw her at WeiYoppu, three months ago,” Yuna continued, despite Minji’s sobs. “She had a job interview. We had a coffee- well, I did and she had herbal tea. We talked, then, I invited her to my office.”
Minji didn’t reply. All Yuna could see were her trembling shoulders as she held herself, crying.
“I . . . I kissed her.” Yuna added, the dark pit of guilt growing with every aching heartbeat in her chest. “I kissed her and told her that if she . . . If she would have me, we could be together.”
Minji stopped, then spun around. Her eyes were wide and her jaw hung open.
“I’m . . . I’m ashamed, Minji,” Yuna couldn’t look at her. She didn’t deserve to look at her. She hung her own head in shame. “I. . . I thought I had moved on but the moment I saw her, I became weak.”
“Kang Yuna . . .” Minji began, her voice thick with tears. “How could you!?”
Her voice echoed through the apartment. The soft padding of the dogs signalled that they were done with their treats and immediately joined Minji’s side.
Yuna didn’t blame the dogs.
“Kang Yuna!” Minji cried out. “How could you!”
She let out another sob, walking away to the bedroom. Yuna stood there, remorse coursing through her veins. Even the dogs followed Minji, loyal to a fault. When she heard Minji on the phone, crying still, Yuna went outside with a pack of cigarettes and a lighter.
*
Yuna couldn’t recall how long she was outside for. She smoked a few cigarettes, stared at her black phone screen, then watched the pale blue sky above. She knew she heard a car in their driveway, she heard talking, but nothing specific. She heard doors opening and closing, the sounds of the dogs barking, and then silence.
After another cursory ten minutes, Yuna entered the apartment. The two dog dishes were gone, and so were the leashes. Minji’s shoes were gone, too. There was a small note on the table.
I’m staying with my parents until I figure things out.
I didn’t want to run away but I can’t look at you right now.
I love you,
Kim Minji
Yuna reread the note a million times. She hoped to find a new meaning, a sign that maybe not all things were lost but Yuna clung to the I love you. She knew she didn’t deserve it. The last three or so months were nothing but lies- Yuna hadn’t been honest with herself up to then, and now, Minji, too.
And Minji was completely and totally in love. She had hinted at- no, expected marriage.
Yuna tried to blink away tears but couldn’t. They were coming too fast. She let out a shuddering breath that broke her and before she knew it, she was sobbing at the kitchen table.
Notes:
TBH Yuna had this coming and Minji doesn't deserve this and finally left haha.
Since I started writing Cherry Gold and had to deal with the Yuna/ Minji part of the fic (as you know, the couple I don't really ship and I find Minji annoying in the manhwa), I wanted to write their relationship as BFFs who caught feelings at the wrong times, but wouldn't work out for one reason or another. I never really liked the whole 'high school sweetheart' trope because it's terribly unrealistic. People grow and change. (Plus I remember all of the boys I dated/ had a crush on in high school and they're all pieces of shit haha).
Anyway, even in the manhwa Yuna seemed immature to me, by the way she handled her crush, her feelings and how she turned to partying and sleeping with girls to deal with it all. She never seemed like the type to settle down right away, at least, not with Minji, who was also immature (again, I think that's a popular trope too, two dumb kids in love, them against the world etc etc). In Cherry Gold, Minjae has a bit more maturity due to her upbringing- having to grow up fast to take care of herself etc. I think that lends itself out to a better relationship.
Also, both hot, top/ bottom etc etc
Enjoy!!
Chapter 33: Sixteenth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Hyera always thought her ultimate fantasy was Kang Yuna.
Kang Yuna, under her.
Kang Yuna, getting fucked.
Kang Yuna, crying, in the throes of pleasure.
Kang Yuna, in submission.
But there was something about watching Cho Minjae from afar. She was pressed up against the wall, Yang Kyerin holding her in place. Kyerin was kissing her, touching her. Minjae was holding back, reserved.
Was she scared?
Was she shy?
Hyera sat there, watching. She watched as Kyerin undressed her, making a show of massaging Minjae’s breasts, admiring them. Minjae was flushed, holding back a moan, her eyes darting from Kyerin to Hyera.
Luckily, Kyerin was less shy. She played with Minjae’s breasts and Hyera could see that Minjae was torn.
Minjae knew that her body belonged to Hyera. Pride swelled in Hyera’s chest, watching Minjae hold her voice, even as Kyerin slid her fingers between her barely parted thighs.
“Don’t be shy, Minjae. Moan. Let Kyerin know she’s doing a good job.” Hyera added, watching as Kyerin bit down on Minjae’s nipple. Poor Minjae let out a cry, parting her thighs more. “Minjae is very sensitive, she’ll cum quickly, so prolong it, Kyerin.”
Watching Kyerin finger Minjae was hotter than she had expected it to be. Hyera’s eyes locked on Minjae, praising her secretly. The poor girl was finally enjoying herself, but she still seemed on the edge of pushing Kyerin away.
Hyera’s core tightened as Minjae’s cries became more intense. She was near her climax. “She’s cumming, Kyerin. Don’t let her. Not yet, anyway,” she warned with a playful smirk.
Hyera wondered if she ought to let Minjae cum at all, or more times than she could handle. Which would be more tortuous? Which would be more pleasurable to see play out in front of her? Hyera herself was torn.
Kyerin moved away and Minjae whimpered. Hyera watched as Kyerin pushed Minjae onto the bed, parting her thighs before licking her up. Minjae cried out, arching her back. She was sure to cum soon. Hyera laid next to Minjae, grabbing her hand.
“It’s not even a challenge anymore, is it? Poor Minjae. Too sensitive, too needy for her own good.”
Hyera leaned over her, pressing her mouth to Minjae’s, pushing her tongue in. In the corner of her eye, all she saw was Kyerin’s head, her black shiny hair, between Minjae’s legs. Immediately, she thought of Kang Yuna.
Watching Kang Yuna fuck Minjae would be a treat, wouldn’t it?
Her core tightened, so Hyera grasped Minjae’s hand even harder, dominating her mouth with her tongue.
When Minjae became a breathless shell of herself, having cummed so hard, Kyerin moved immediately to Hyera. Minjae watched, too slow to react properly to Kyerin’s embrace.
“You did a good job, Kyerin.” Hyera praised as Kyerin glanced up at her, looking for approval. She took off her robe and tossed it aside. “You made Minjae cum so hard. I don’t think she can return the favour, so I will, in her place.”
Minjae watched with wide eyes as Hyera grabbed a few things from her bedside table. She had bought a few toys for the occasion and was eager to try them out. Once Hyera had handcuffed Minjae’s wrists behind her back, making her lay on them, she pulled out her favourite new toy.
“These are a different sort of nipple clamps. Tell me how much you love them, Minjae.” Hyera held them out for Minjae to see- bird cage like contraptions made to pin a nipple in place with four little spokes. Absolutely tortuous, but just as gorgeous to see on Minjae.
Poor Minjae laid there, frozen in place with wide eyes. Hyera leaned down, sucking on her already hardened nipples. She moaned, unable to help herself. Hyera took her time, savouring Minjae. Her desperate moans fueled her so much, she could never be sick of them. Once satisfied with her work, Hyera placed the tiny birdcage over Minjae’s nipple. Minjae was watching, her face flushed, and holding her breath. Hyera twisted the little vice- like spokes. One by one, each spoke dug into her flesh, into her nipple. Minjae let out a whimpering cry, arching her back once it was completely attached.
“How lovely. Let’s do the other.” Hyera readied the other birdcage, admiring the view. The black birdcage stood so stark against Minjae’s pale yet flushed skin. She was squirming, even rubbing her thighs together.
“I was always curious about it,” Kyerin said, grasping Minjae’s other breast for Hyera.
Hyera did the same to that nipple as well. Now Minjae was whimpering so pathetically, writhing under her. Hyera was less slow, less kind this time around. She let her teeth tease Minjae this time, instead of her tongue. Then, she placed the birdcage and tightened the vices.
Minjae cried out so wonderfully, there were tears forming in her eyes. They had yet to fall. Hyera couldn’t help but admire her beauty. So helpless, a victim to her own sensitivities. To her own needs.
“Unnie! Unnie, please-!” Minjae cried out, arching her back. Her face was redder now, desperate for release.
“What is it, Minjae?” Hyera asked, smirking at the display below her. She grabbed her phone from the bedside table, readying it for a bit of insurance. “Is it too much?”
Kyerin began to tease Minjae by sliding her finger in between the bars of the birdcage, poking at Minjae’s nipple. It was dark now.
“Kyerin, tease her a little,” Hyera instructed. She held up her phone and began recording.
Kyerin obeyed at once. She climbed over Minjae’s body, one hand slid between Minjae’s thighs. She opened her legs so quickly and the moment Kyerin’s finger made contact with her clit, Minjae moaned so loudly, so lewdly, even Hyera wanted to abandon the game and have her turn with the poor girl. Kyerin kissed Minjae- silencing her for a moment. The way Minjae moved her hips against Kyerin’s hand, the way her moans were muffled, Hyera almost couldn’t help herself.
Why was Minjae so irresistible?
Why did she want her so badly?
Hyera held her phone steady, capturing Minjae on her screen. She made whining noises- the poor girl only wanted relief, to cum again. Kyerin finally pulled away.
“Come, Kyerin, it’s your turn for a little fun,” Hyera said, smirking. She put down her phone and took Kyerin in her arms, making sure Minjae could see.
Hyera pushed Kyerin onto the mattress, pinning down her wrists and kissing her hard. She could see Minjae watching from the corner of her eye. Kyerin moaned loudly, sinking into the kiss, the mattress.
It wasn’t enough. Hyera wanted Minjae.
She wanted to fuck Minjae.
But she wanted her to suffer, too.
Hyera cuffed Kyerin to the headboard of the bed, then moved between her thighs. Kyerin was soaking wet, ready for her as Hyera began to lick her up.
She thought of Minjae, who was whimpering beside her. How wet she must be. . . how aroused and wanting she must be . . .
Hyera wondered if this was too cruel.
She fingered Kyerin, ramming three fingers into her pussy. Kyerin’s cry was loud, almost performative. Hyera wanted to look at Minjae, to see the desperation in her face but ignoring her would be the best course of action.
If Hyera so much as glanced at poor Minjae, in her tortuous state, she’d give in and fuck her.
So, instead, she fucked Kyerin like she was Minjae.
It wasn’t the same, it wasn’t as fulfilling.
Kyerin didn’t feel the same. She writhed differently, she moaned differently. Kyerin didn’t belong to Hyera. Her collar was just for show, to make Minjae jealous. It meant nothing.
But a collar on Minjae? Hyera couldn’t help but think how pretty it would look on her. She had ordered a cherry red leather collar for Minjae but it wouldn’t arrive yet.
And Minjae truly would have to earn it.
Hyera moved from licking Kyerin to sliding in the strap on that had been bobbing between her legs. Kyerin cried out, throwing glances at Minjae every once in a while. Hyera thrusted her hips hard and fast, waiting for Kyerin to cry like Minjae, to submit like Minjae.
It just wasn’t the same.
She finally glanced over at Minjae. Her eyes fluttered open and their gaze met. She was crying. Tears were falling down her flushed cheeks.
Was she in such terrible pain, in such horrendous need of touching, that she couldn’t withstand it any longer?
Was her heart breaking, watching her fuck Kyerin?
Hyera didn’t care which it was, but she fucked Kyerin harder and she heard a small sob.
Soon- very soon- Hyera would have Minjae all to herself. The plan was coming to an end.
Hyera decided it and it was final.
Why have the icy cold Kang Yuna when Cho Minjae was right there, aching to be with her?
Notes:
Hey everyone!!
So this intermission/ chapter was fun to write. When I wrote Hyera's POV chapters, I wrote them all in two weekends, in one long narrative. I always say how much fun Hyera is to write, and it's not because I can write horny on main and not feel too bad about it, but because I often don't write from characters like her pov's. I always wrote from the protangonist's pov (always the Minjae's and Yuna's) so it's refreshing change of pace.
Enjoy!! Tomorrow is Minjae's chapter!!
Chapter 34: Chapter Seventeen: Betrayal
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Minjae was not a good girl or a good slave. She did not always obey.
She had dreamed that she was in Yuna’s tiny apartment, laying on her bed. Yuna was on top of her, grinding down on her pelvis with her own. Minjae couldn’t help herself. Her dreams were of Kang Yuna- cooking supper, studying at that tiny table, fucking on the bed in the corner.
It was a comforting, blissful scene just out of reach, just out of the realm of reality. A soft haze around the edges, memories played on a loop.
Kang Yuna, licking her up.
Kang Yuna, fingering her.
Kang Yuna, making her cum over and over again.
Minjae came hard and fast more times than she would want to admit. She couldn’t stop herself. She couldn’t even remember the last time she even touched herself, the last time she was so overcome by a dream.
Her head was light, spinning almost. She was breathless, her heart beating so hard, she was sure it would explode. She stared at her fingers, wet with her disobedience.
Hyera Unnie wouldn’t be happy.
Minjae got out of bed, her knees weak. She showered, to rid herself of the guilt and wash away the evidence. However, the ache returned and Minjae indulged herself. This time, three fingers inside and cumming harder than before.
All she had to think about was Kang Yuna’s lips on hers, their chests pressed together, her arm around her waist.
Nearly sobbing now, Minjae finished her shower and got dressed. For all she knew, it was the day Hyera Unnie would return. She slipped on a pale green robe and matching panties, alongside her red collar. She used the hair dryer and then brushed her long locks before braiding them in a long plait.
Once she had recovered with a bit of a late breakfast, Minjae did some cleaning.
It wasn’t always expected of her to do any of the cleaning. She tidied up after herself and Hyera Unnie more often than not. If the sheets needed to be washed and the housekeepers weren’t due for a visit, it would be Minjae who volunteered. For that particular Sunday, Minjae kept herself busy with cleaning the bedroom.
Normally, the bedroom was a joint effort of Minjae, Hyera Unnie and the housekeepers but now, Minjae stripped the sheets and tossed them in the washing machine, replaced them, then dusted the shelves and surfaces.
Hyera Unnie would usually clean the vanity, despite the fact that it was shared. Hyera Unnie used it the most, afterall. Minjae sat at the vanity and began wiping down the surface and made a mental note to get the right product to wipe down the mirror with. She opened the drawers and spotted a neat stack of envelopes.
Minjae picked one up. It was square and held a thick cardstock. The envelope wasn’t sealed, so Minjae opened it and slid out the card inside. She read with wide eyes the delicate yet bold writing:
Park Junmyeon and Oh Hyera invite you to their wedding
June the sixteenth 20xx Six PM
Banquet Hall, Lotte Hotel
Jeju Island
Reception to Follow
Minjae sat there, and all at once, it made sense.
That day, when Hyera Unnie’s parents visited and spoke of Park Junmyeon, of marriage.
When Hyera said that they might move, all those weeks ago.
Hyera Unnie leaving for a vacation without her. ‘For business’, she had said.
The gold foil and the delicate lotus flowers that lined the edges of the cardstock were heavy in Minjae’s hands.
It was June seventeenth. Hyera Unnie was married to that man now, Minjae realised.
Her heart felt heavy, too. Weighing down in her chest. She pressed a hand to her chest, to feel her thumping, yet aching heart.
Why was Hyera Unnie marrying a man?
Wasn’t she enough?
Minjae closed her eyes and tried to make sense of it all. She had ignored what Hyera’s parents had said that day and hoped, in ignorance, that she could avoid the upcoming reality of her situation.
Tears prickled her eyes but they did not come. Not yet.
She slid the invitation into the envelope and replaced it in the drawer. She left the bedroom and headed to the living room, staring down at the city below.
Somewhere, on Jeju Island, Hyera Unnie was with her new husband.
And in the back of Minjae’s mind, she recalled Hyera Unnie’s words: Minjae, you belong to me, in body and heart. But I belong to no one. I can play with whomever I want.
Minjae knew this, and it was what she believed in for so long. It was the truth. Hyera Unnie had made it clear hundreds of times. Hyera Unnie belonged to no one. She was her own master.
And if she was subjecting herself to marriage- to a man, no less- than Minjae needed to have faith in Hyera Unnie.
She would not be abandoned.
Yet the idea of Hyera Unnie moving on glimmered in Minjae’s mind.
She could be free.
And her traitorous hand found her bottom lip, brushing against it.
Notes:
Hello everyone!!
Lots of mixed feelings in this chapter!!! Poor Minjae, as usual.
There are probably questions about Hyera's marriage. They will be answered in later chapters. Fun fact: Park Junmyeon appears in the mystery fic!!
Enjoy!! Comments are always appreciated!!
Chapter 35: Seventeenth Intermission
Chapter Text
“Unnie, let me show you how sorry I am, please.” Minjae muttered. Her voice was soft, delicate. She was exhausted. Poor Minjae had been through enough and had been asked to complete the most difficult of tasks: breaking Kang Yuna’s heart.
Hyera smiled at her, pulling away from their kiss. She took Minjae’s hand and led the way to the bedroom, where Hyera discarded her robe and so did Minjae. Minjae knelt on the floor, where blankets and tossed behind articles of clothing and lingerie lay.
Watching Minjae lick her up was a treat for herself. Hyera stroked Minjae’s hair, dishevelled still from earlier. She moaned quietly, leaning back to angle herself better for Minjae.
It was always going to end this way- Cho Minjae would have to break up with Kang Yuna eventually. The exact reasons why didn’t matter. Hyera had planned it all along, but there was a change of heart of sorts.
Perhaps she was too attached to Cho Minjae. Perhaps she had grown too soft for her. She was a beautiful, willing victim of her game, who played her part so well, who was irresistible to all. Hyera moulded her into what she was now- a perfected version of the girl she once was.
How could Hyera discard her so easily? She couldn’t. She wouldn’t allow it. Who would snatch her up? Who would be the one to make her cry, moan and scream? Who would touch her lovely body, to hold her and to strike her?
No matter how much Hyera had once wanted the ice cold, untouchable Kang Yuna, Hyera grew bored of the idea. Kim Minji could have her. Hyera found her less and less intriguing.
But Minjae- far from her family, soon to be estranged from Kang Yuna, she would belong solely to Hyera. She had proven herself loyal, and now she needed to cut every tie.
As Minjae brought Hyera to orgasm- Hyera’s own thoughts were slipping away, her core tightening until numb, Hyera kept her eyes on the messy red hair between her thighs.
This was where Cho Minjae belonged.
Chapter 36: Chapter Eighteen: Thoughts
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Yuna held the teardrop pendant in her hand, letting the chain slip through her fingers until the pendant swung freely, letting the sun catch through the glass panes of blues and greens.
She couldn’t help but wonder if Minjae kept hers as well.
The weekend was almost over and Yuna’s texts and calls to Minji went unanswered. She knew it was useless- Minji had been patient enough and didn’t deserve to be strung along. A part of Yuna had accepted it was over between them.
She smoked another cigarette before finally making the train back to the heart of Seoul. Yuna didn’t know what she would do there. She had no plan. She kept the necklace in her pocket, making sure it was still there every once in a while.
Maybe she had hoped that Minjae was out there, waiting to be found. Maybe Yuna thought if she made herself available, she would be able to find Minjae once more.
Yuna returned to the art museum, wandering the neighbourhood of the WeiYuppu building. It was a dazzling hot June afternoon and everyone was out, taking in the good weather. She passed a travel agency and it boasted trip packages to Jeju Island.
Yuna pushed thoughts of another vacation with Minjae out of her mind.
She thought of Minjae’s words: I belong to Hyera Unnie!
And all of those years ago, what Minjae had said about her, at the time, mysterious lover: It’s more than love.
What did that mean? How could Oh Hyera be capable of love?
Cho Minjae was never in love with you, Kang Yuna. She was mine all along.
Such possessive words . . . Yuna couldn’t shake the look off Hyera’s face when she said it. Like she was proud . . .
A terrible sinking feeling came over her and no matter how she tried to shake it off, she couldn’t.
There had to be a reason Cho Minjae dropped off the face of the earth and was only ‘found’ when Hyera had left Seoul, when Hyera allowed it.
Minjae said it herself, she belonged to her.
Hyera was proud because Minjae was her dog and she was the owner.
And it made Yuna sick.
Notes:
Surprise! Two chapters today!! Since the two chapters were so short, I just had to post them together. . .
It looks as though Yuna is putting things together and she's not liking what she sees!!
No chapter tomorrow, but there will be a nice, long chapter on Monday- Hyera's back from her wedding/ honeymoon!
Monday is also Labour day, so technically, the last day of my vacation. The last two weeks of posting was a lot of fun! I think I'll go back to posting twice a week!
Enjoy the chapters and see you guys monday!! (#freeminjae lol)
Chapter 37: Chapter Nineteen: Shattered
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“My lovely Minjae,” Hyera greeted three days later.
Minjae was in the middle of preparing her dinner when Hyera walked in through the door. She had a healthy bronzed glow, but wasn’t too dark. She had a silver band on the finger of her left hand, with a large diamond on it. The sight of it made Minjae’s stomach sink.
“Unnie!” Minjae shook off her bad feeling and turned off the stove. She ran into Hyera Unnie’s arms at once. Hyera squeezed her tightly.
“How was your weekend, Minjae?” Hyera asked, pulling away to cup Minjae’s face.
“It was boring without you, Unnie,” Minjae lied, smiling up at her.
Despite everything, her heart was pounding in anticipation.
“Was it? You found nothing to occupy yourself with?” Hyera asked with a smirk.
Minjae shook her head. “No, Unnie, I was here the entire time.”
“But did you touch yourself?” Hyera asked, lowering her hand from Minjae’s cheek to the knot at her waist.
Minjae gulped and hoped her face didn’t show her guilt.
Lately, punishments have been so harsh, Minjae hardly looked forward to them.
Minjae’s robe fell open.
“I missed you,” Hyera said, her fingers trailing across Minjae’s skin. It tickled and when Minjae pulled away, Hyera held her close by the waist.
Like Yuna did a few days before.
“And I missed your gorgeous body, Minjae,” Hyera muttered, her fingers catching on the elastic band of Minjae’s panties. “Tell me the truth, Minjae. Am I punishing you tonight, or rewarding you?”
Minjae blushed at once. She wanted to lie, to spare herself. She wondered if Hyera could tell, if she knew already. Was it written across her face?
“You touched yourself, didn’t you?” Hyera asked, grabbing a fistful of the thin cotton fabric. It strained against Minjae’s hips and ass, and she heard an elastic snap. As Minjae gasped, Hyera gave another harsh tug and her panties were torn off. “Minjae, you’re such a desperate little slut, you couldn’t wait a few days for me? You had to cum by yourself?”
Minjae gulped, glancing away. “I’m sorry, Unnie.”
“What kind of master would I be if I let you cum by yourself? Especially after I told you not to?” Hyera asked. Next, she let go of Minjae and pushed the robe she wore off of Minjae’s shoulders. “You disobeyed me, Minjae. You know what that means.”
At once, Minjae knelt on the floor.
“Please, Unnie, have mercy on me!” She begged. Perhaps it would save her from a harsh punishment. Perhaps absence made Hyera Unnie’s heart grow fonder of her. She kept her head down, not daring to look up.
Suddenly, Minjae felt Hyera’s barefoot on her back, pushing her down.
“Begging won’t ease your punishment, Minjae,” Hyera Unnie stated at once. “But you know what will? Tell me, who were you thinking of? Was it your master?”
Minjae gulped. “Y-yes, it was. It was you, fucking me, Unnie.”
Another beat. Minjae’s heart was racing, pounding in her ears.
“I’m your master tonight, Minjae,” Hyera pressed more of oher weight on her foot and Minjae squeaked in pain. “And why don’t I believe you?”
“Un- Master!” Minjae called out.
“Tell me the truth,” Hyera demanded. “If you weren’t thinking of your master, then who were you thinking of?”
Minjae closed her eyes tightly. “K-Kang Yuna.” She muttered in a small voice.
Suddenly, Hyera Unnie removed her foot. “Who?”
Minjae remained on the floor. “Kang Yuna, master.”
“You were touching yourself to Kang Yuna?” Hyera asked, her voice too calm, too controlled.
“I’m sorry, master.” Minjae tried not to shiver. She was cold and Hyera’s voice was like ice, piercing through her.
“This cannot be forgiven so easily, Minjae. Get yourself to the bedroom.” Hyera walked past her, in quick movements.
Minjae hesitated for a moment, adrenaline coursing through her. She didn’t know what exactly awaited her, but Minjae knew it would only be the most terrible of pleasure and pain combined.
And there was a time it excited her, aroused her.
But not this time.
*
Hyera cuffed Minjae’s wrists behind her back. Upon her breasts were the black birdcage clamps, which hadn’t been used in ages. Minjae had almost forgotten how painful they were, how much she hated them. Her nipples throbbed painfully, making her core ache dully.
She wasn't aroused until Hyera began to tease her, to stimulate her.
And now Hyera was between her thighs, sucking on her clit. Minjae cried out, thankful for the distraction from her pain for the sweet pleasure of Hyera’s mouth. A tug of fear of anticipation kept her from cumming right away, but when Minjae saw the hair- like pin in her hand, she cried out.
“Please master, have mercy,” Minjae began, using the safeword. She rarely used it but Hyera had used that clit clamp on her before. It caused the most mind blowing of orgasms, but the worst pain as well. “Please, I’m sorry-! Ha-! Ha-!”
It was too late. Hyera trapped her sensitive clit between the jaws of the clamp. She admired her work, smirking down at Minjae’s pussy.
The rush of pain and pleasure made Minaje hot, and desperate. She fell onto her back, onto her wrists, squirming for relief.
“So, you were thinking of Kang Yuna, hmm?” Hyera asked, crawling over Minjae’s body, her knees between her open thighs. Minjae couldn’t help but buck her hips, hoping for some sort of pleasure to take her mind off of it all. She arched her back, with tears building in her eyes. “What was Kang Yuna doing to you, Minjae? Tell your master.”
“Ha-! Ha-!” Minjae cried out. She couldn’t. She didn’t want to share. They were memories she kept in her heart and had never shared before.
How Kang Yuna had once made love to her was none of Hyera Unnie’s business.
“Did she lick you up?” Hyera asked, cupping Minjae’s breasts. As she squeezed, Minjae moaned louder. “Did she finger you? Tell your master everything.”
“No-!” Minjae cried out as Hyera dug her fingers into her flesh, her thumbs pushing against the cages. Her moan became a scream- the sudden tug on her trapped nipples were too much for her and fresh tears escaped.
“No? Why are you so shy, Minjae?” Hyera asked, frowning slightly. “It’s not like you. Or, do you like this too much?”
“Ha-!” Minjae squirmed as Hyera played with the cages, tugging and pulling on her overstimulated nipples. “Ha-! Stop-! Please-!”
“Tell me what Kang Yuna was doing to you, and I’ll stop.” Hyera warned, cupping Minjae’s face.
Minjae swallowed hard. “She . . . she was grinding against me.”
Hyera raised an eyebrow. “You risked punishment for that?”
Minjae watched as Hyera climbed off of her and undressed. She could see the tan lines across her hips, her breasts. Hyera had worn a bikini during her wedding weekend.
“Like this, Minjae?” Hyera said as she slotted herself between Minjae’s legs.
“Unnie-!” Minjae cried out when Hyera’s pelvis made contact with her captured clit. It was like an electric shock, coursing through her core.
“It’s-” Hyera began to grind down on Minjae, holding her legs tightly. “Master-” She heaved Minjae’s leg over her shoulder for a better angle. “To you!”
As Hyera thrusted herself against Minjae, Minjae cried out so loudly, she was sure someone would hear. All she felt was her core numbing so quickly, so intensely. She closed her eyes and wondered if Hyera Unnie was as good as Yuna, but dispelled her thoughts quickly.
“So this was how Kang Yuna got you off?” Hyera pulled away after Minjae’s moans were getting too loud. Minjae whimpered- she was so close to cumming. “I expected better from her.”
Minjae tried to catch her breath, but Hyera was staring at her. “But not from you. I bet Kang Yuna didn’t have to work very hard to make you cum.”
“Ma-master . . . please . . .I’m sorry . . .” Minjae moaned.
“Isn’t this what you wanted?” Hyera asked, standing over her in her naked glory. “Did you want me to dominate you?”
“Not . . not like this-!” Minjae said.
“No, you just want to cum,” Hyera scoffed. “You’re so easy to figure out, Minjae. If it weren’t for me, you’d be no better than a common slut, bouncing around to get your next orgasm, hmm?”
Minjae glanced away, pulling her thighs together.
“Oh no, don’t hide your pussy from me.” Hyera Unnie slapped her hand against Minjae’s thigh sharply, making her jolt. “You have no right to be shy, Minjae.”
“Master . . .” Minjae moaned, watching as Hyera grabbed her second mirror from her vanity and the bench that went with it. Minjae gulped when she saw Hyera Unnie place the mirror on the bench and angled it so that Minjae could see herself.
So she could see her own sex.
She was surprised to see how pink it was, and the wetness of her arousal.
“Look at your pussy, Minjae,” Hyera climbed on the bed, pushing Minjae to sit up. She slid behind her, her head on her shoulder. “Isn’t it pretty?”
Hyera lowered her hand between Minjae’s legs. Minjae watched in the mirror as Hyera touched the clamp. She could see her clit, dark and full of blood. Hyera touched her clit and Minjae let out a moan.
“Don’t look away, Minjae,” Hyera muttered in her ear. “Watch while I tease you.”
Minjae opened her eyes, obeying Hyera. Through her eyelashes, she watched Hyera’s finger stroke her, rubbing harder and harder. Minjae squirmed, moaning as Hyera used her other arm to hold her against her.
“Is this how you touch yourself, Minjae?” Hyera asked gently, now with two fingers against Minjae’s clit. “Like this?”
“Ha-! No-!” Minjae arched her back, her core numbing but no relief came.
“Did you finger yourself?” Hyera asked.
Minjae nodded, holding in her voice. She was on the edge of tears.
“I’ve decided,” Hyera kept stroking her, pushing down. It drove Minjae wild. She couldn’t hold in her screams, so she let it out. “That I’m ignoring your pussy for now.”
“Master-!” Minjae whined.
“I was going to make you cum all night,” Hyera whispered in her ear.
Minjae couldn’t stand it. She was wild with want, with need. She needed Hyera to fuck her now and she hated how desperate she wanted it.
It was disgusting how easily Minjae caved into her own wants.
How pathetic of her.
“But since you seem so sex crazed, a little punishment would do you well, Minjae.” Hyera nibbled on her earlobe, still rubbing tight circles against her clit.
Minjae let out a desperate sob. “I’m- sorry-! Please! Stop!”
“You’re all mine, Minjae,” Hyera said, her other hand landing over Minjae’s heart. “Why should I stop playing with my favourite toy?”
Minjae opened her tear filled eyes to see Hyera Unnie in the mirror, her chin on her shoulder. One hand over her heart, the other on her clit. Poor Minjae, pale yet flushed, and caught in Hyera’s grasp. She could only see herself as pathetic.
“Now, Minjae,” Hyera pulled her hand away from her clit, but instead grabbed her thigh to open her thighs wider. “What else did Kang Yuna do to you in your dream? Surely it had to be more than just grinding. A desperate, sex crazed slut like you needs more than that.”
Hanging her head, Minjae tried to catch her breath.
“Tell your master, Minjae. Or shall I get the paddle out?” Hyera asked sweetly. “I’ll give your sweet pussy a nice smack, hmm?”
“No, please-!” Minjae moaned.
Hyera’s hands cupped Minjae’s breasts. “Then tell me.”
“She . . . she . . .” Minjae felt more hot tears get squeezed out of her.
She had done everything. It felt too intimate, too precious to tell Hyera Unnie anymore than she already did.
“Is Kang Yuna such a good lover, that you’d protect her five years after you’ve broken her heart into pieces?” Hyera asked, twisting the birdcage clamps. Minjae let out a scream, arching her back. The pain was more visceral than she had expected. “She must be, if you’re touching yourself against my wishes, all these years later.”
“Master, please-!” Minjae begged. “Please, stop- please-!”
She let out another sob and Hyera let go of her.
“You’ve been awfully vocal, Minjae.” Hyera let Minjae fall back on the bed. Hyera pulled on a robe and rounded the bed with her arms crossed. “Are you not enjoying yourself?”
Minjae closed her eyes, her stomach tightening. Disobeying Hyera Unnie was never an option. And if she did, Minjae would see the light. She’d give in and apologise and right her wrongs.
So why wasn't Minjae obeying now? Why was she fighting back?
“You know, Minjae, I wasn’t gone for business reasons.” Hyera held up her left hand. “I got married.”
Minjae remained silent. The truth, despite already knowing of it, still shocked her.
“And I got this lovely ring.” Hyera slipped it off. “It means nothing to me. I don’t love him. I don’t care for him. He isn’t mine and I’m not his.”
Minjae watched as Hyera placed the ring on the vanity.
“I did it to please my parents.” Hyera grabbed Minjae’s upper arm and sat her up once more. Sitting on the clamp made her wince and groan in sudden pleasure. “But I know, for a fact, that you still have something.”
Her heart froze.
“You have something I’ve been looking for, Minjae.” Hyera pulled her to her feet.
Minaje could barely stand- she swayed, her knees buckling. Her breasts weighed heavily by the clamps, her head spinning from the pain and pleasure erupting from her most sensitive points.
“You, too, have a piece of jewellery. It matters greatly, doesn’t it?” Hyera gripped Minjae harder. “I know you still have that cheap, disgusting pendant Kang Yuna gave you.”
Minjae shook her head at once. No, she couldn’t let Hyera have it. She couldn’t give it up.
“If you want to cum, if you want to be free of these clamps,” Hyera threatened. “You’ll tell me where the necklace is, Minjae.”
“Ha- no-!” Minjae sat at once.
Hyera was frowning and her grip on her upper arm was tightening.
“Tell me, Minjae. I don’t care. You can stay like this all night, for all I care!” Hyera shouted.
Minjae fell silent, her heart pounding in her ears now.
Hyera led Minjae to the hall and threw her against the wall. Minjae gasped, her legs weak and almost unable to hold her up. Hyera pressed her mouth against Minjae’s, kissing her hard and fast while her hand dove between Minjae’s legs. Minjae cried against Hyera’s lips. The rousing touch made Minjae weak.
She wanted to be free of the clamps, to no longer be in such delicious pain, but she couldn’t give Hyera Unnie the necklace. It was too precious.
“Since when do you disobey your master?” Hyera muttered into Minjae’s ear. “Are you bored of obeying me? Are my punishments not harsh enough?”
Her fingers dig into Minjae’s trapped clit even harder. Minjae cried out again, hitting her head against the wall behind her.
“Or do you think that Kang Yuna will take you back if you carry this torch in your heart?” Hyera asked. “How pathetic, Minjae! Do you really think Kang Yuna wants you?”
“Ha-! Ha-!” Minjae cried out, the pleasure rippling across her core. She was so close. She wanted something inside of her. She hated herself for it.
“I told her about us. I told you how you love being fucked by two women.” Hyera hissed into her ear, her fingers circling even tighter. “I told her that you never loved her. That I was all that you needed.”
Minjae held back a sob. She knew this, but the pain was still fresh and raw.
“Kang Yuna was disgusted.” Hyera muttered. “She was disgusted by you, Minjae. You’re so sex crazed, who would want you anyway? No one but me, because only I can satisfy you.”
She had to remind herself it wasn’t true, no matter how Hyera Unnie said it. Kang Yuna had kissed her. She didn’t hate her. She wasn’t disgusted by her.
“So why protect her? Why protect those tainted memories?” Hyera asked gently, her fingers now dusting her. “She doesn’t want you. She’ll never leave Kim Minji for a slut like you.”
Minjae let out a sob. It was too much to bear. The haze of pain of pleasure, the guilt weighing down on her soul, was too heavy.
“Shall I undo your cuffs? And your clamps?” Hyera asked, pulling her hand away.
Minjae stood against the wall, panting silently. She could never be free of Hyera Unnie and the easiest way through was to comply. Minjae always knew this, but in this moment, it was truly the reality of her situation.
Minjae nodded at last.
“Good girl, Minjae,” Hyera praised. “I’ll buy you something much nicer than that piece of junk.”
Once the cuffs and clamps were off, Minjae led the way to the guest bedroom. She approached the bins in the corner and lifted the lid off the first one. Her body ached with need, her heart heavy with regret.
The hibiscus pendant was the one thing Minjae kept. The one tangible gift Yuna had given her. She didn’t want to give it up. She took her time digging through the clothes, making sure not to reveal her new clothes or her laptop, but when she found the box, she hesitated.
Maybe Hyera was right. Maybe Yuna didn’t want her. Maybe they could never be together. Maybe it was all a game of pretend, and it ended like a spell broken, at midnight.
Minjae held the box in her hands and opened it. The note Yuna had given her with the necklace was still there. Minjae ignored it. She’d keep it for herself. She took the pendant from the box.
It was a cheap pendant, but it held so many wonderful memories. The wonderful weekend at the beach, the food, the ocean breeze, the mind blowing sex, the iconic views. The pendant represented all of that.
Minjae held it out for Hyera to take, without even looking. She felt Hyera Unnie take the pendant from her at once and her heart ached immediately.
“What an ugly cheap thing.” Hyera Unnie said with a disgusted scoff. “All of this trouble for this?”
Hyera Unnie led the way to the kitchen, the chain in between her fingers.
“Sit here.” Hyera gestured to the chair nearest to them. Minjae sat, her heart racing. What was Hyera to do?
Hyera Unnie placed a dishcloth on the table, then the hibiscus pendant and then folded the cloth to cover it.
“I’ve been wanting to do this ever since I caught you wearing this ugly thing,” Hyera said as she grabbed a cast iron frying pan from the cabinet.
“Unnie, no please!” Minjae cried out at once.
Hyera pursed her lips and heaved the frying pan over her shoulder. It was the heaviest one they had, and it was the one they used the least often.
“I own you, Minjae.” Hyera said at once. “You accepted my collar, after all. That means the only person you should be thinking of is me, not Kang Yuna.”
Before Minjae could move, Hyera swung the cast iron pan down on the dish cloth and the unmistaken sound of dulled glass shattering was what Minjae feared the most. She covered her mouth, shocked.
Hyera revealed the shattered glass and the twisted metal of what remained of the pendant.
“Even five years later, you couldn’t let go.” Hyera said with a satisfied smirk. She cupped Minjae’s chin, tilting her head upwards.
Minjae’s heart squeezed. Hyera was gazing down at her, soaking in Minjae’s misery. Before, Minjae might be glad to be taught the lesson she needed to learn, but now, after seeing Yuna, she felt nothing but disillusionment, disappointment.
“From now on,” Hyera Unnie began. “I never want to hear Kang Yuna’s name ever again. Is that understood?”
Minjae gulped, but nodded.
“Good girl. Let’s finish what we started, hmm?”
Reluctantly, Minjae followed Hyera Unnie back to the bedroom. She gave a last, longing look at the pile of red glass on the kitchen table.
Notes:
Hyera's back from her honeymoon!!
So today's my last day of vacation/ labour day so that means there won't be another chapter until Saturday. Posting often was fun, so I think I'll post twice a week until Midnight Ice is done.
The mystery fic is going well!! If you guys are curious about it, send me a number between 1 and 150 on Tumblr and I'll reply with a line or two from the mystery fic. I think it'll be a fun game to play!!
Enjoy the chapter and see you guys either on tumblr or on saturday!!! #freeminjae
Chapter 38: Eighteenth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Cho Minjae fell asleep quickly.
She was almost angelic, fast asleep against the soft pillow. Her face framed by stray red locks, falling from her half undone braid. Her eyes were still red, from all of the tears she must have shed. Her pink lips were parted, kiss swollen and plump. Around her neck laid the cherry red collar and the medallion that shone in the low light of Hyera’s bedroom. Her soft, round breasts were exposed, as the blankets were bunched around her waist. Her rosebud nipples were still hard from Hyera’s lips, tongue, and her fingers, too.
Hyera couldn’t help but admire her.
Cho Minjae had finally done it, after all. She broke Kang Yuna’s heart.
Hyera was still curious- had Yuna begged? Had Yuna ravaged her, in an attempt to convince her to stay? Had she easily accepted Minjae’s choice? Respecting her and not even putting up a fight?
Had Minjae cried as Yuna held onto her tightly?
Hyera would have to ask Minjae to recount the conversation, but not yet. The poor girl was recovering, getting the sleep she so desperately needed. Instead, Hyera left her be and headed to the kitchen.
Minjae had left her bag in the kitchen and there was something Hyera needed to see. She needed to know if it was there.
Hyera opened Minjae’s bag. She found her wallet, her phone (turned off), some books and that was it. Hyera frowned. She checked every pocket, even dumping the contents onto the table.
Had Minjae not brought that stupid, cheap necklace?
It would have been a perfect, fitting end to the whole ordeal. Hyera wondered if Minjae gave it back. Or had she tossed it out herself?
No, Minjae was too much in love with Yuna. She wouldn’t throw it out. She either kept it, or gave it back.
And Hyera would smash it herself.
*
Kang Yuna was a mess.
Hyera sat at the kitchen table, sipping the tea Yuna had served her. With Minjae apartment shopping, Hyera decided it was time to visit her dear friend.
“I can’t believe she left.” Yuna muttered. Hyera couldn’t think of anytime she had ever seen Yuna wear casual sweats and yoga pants. Her hair was loose, but a little on the stringy side. The poor girl hadn’t showered. Her dark sweater looked well worn. Had she not changed her clothes? Hyera hid her smirk.
“I’m surprised as well,” Hyera replied. “You two were so cute together at christmas. What changed?”
Yuna let out an exhale, her icy eyes daring to meet Hyera’s. “Kim Minji is back in Seoul. Has she contacted you?”
“She did.” Hyera replied. “She’s been through a lot, too, hasn’t she?”
Yuna nodded. “She. . . Well, we kissed.”
Hyera feigned a gasp. “What?”
“I’m responsible for Minjae leaving. She couldn’t forgive it. She couldn’t forgive me.” Yuna added, glancing away.
“Oh Yuna,” Hyera sighed and extended her hand. “How could you do such a thing? Do you really still have feelings for Kim Minji?”
Yuna sat there, sinking into her own despair. Hyera had waited for this moment for so long. Her long held plans were finally made and executed.
Cho Minjae had destroyed Kang Yuna so thoroughly.
“I don’t know.” Yuna replied, narrowing her eyes, frowning. “I’ve . . . I’ve wanted her for so long. I loved her for so long . . .”
“And then Cho Minjae came around?”
Yuna allowed herself the smallest of smiles. “And then Cho Minjae came around.” She scoffed. “I almost pushed her away, you know. She was so clingy, so determined to interview me.”
“Oh?” Hyera nodded, listening intently like a good friend should. She was so proud of Minjae. She really could seduce anybody, could she?
“And I’m not even sure how it happened. It was so natural. I . . I fell in love.” Yuna let out a sigh. Half wistful, half devastated.
“But Kim Minji?” Hyera added.
“Well, she was dating Han Jihoon, wasn’t she? And then she left Seoul, without even seeing me in person. All I got was a text.” Yuna added. “I’m a terrible friend. I should have gone to see her. I should have-!”
“You shouldn’t dwell on these things, Yuna,” Hyera advised sagely.
Yuna raised an eyebrow at her. “So what should I do, hm?”
Hyera shrugged. “If Cho Minjae has had enough of your flip flopping, then you should see where Kim Minji will take you. She was your teenage love, wasn’t she?”
“I . . . I’m not ready yet.” Yuna drank from her mug of half cold tea. “It’s only been a few days.”
“It’s been over a week. Do you think Kim Minji will wait after you?” Hyera asked. “Hasn’t she suffered enough, too? Her grandfather almost died, she was harassed and judged because of that anonymous post, then she had to watch you fall in love with Cho Minjae. . . If I were her, I’d move on.”
As much as heartbroken Yuna amused her to no end, satisfying a craving that had plagued her in ages, Hyera didn’t want Yuna to dwell on Cho Minjae.
She couldn’t ever have her again.
Not even in her memories.
She couldn’t treasure her in her heart.
Cho Minjae belonged to Hyera, after all.
“Now, what you need to do, Yuna,” Hyera stood up at once, smirking. “Is to get dressed in something nice and go out on the town. Get your mind off of Cho Minjae, off of heartbreak.”
Yuna stared up at Hyera, almost surprised.
“Well, that’s always your plan of attack, isn’t it?” Hyera asked. “Or would you prefer to visit Kim Minji? And consummate your love?”
“I don’t want to do either, Hyera.” Yuna replied, getting a hold of herself. “I . . . I need more time.”
Hyera didn’t reply. She glanced around the apartment quickly, taking stock. Hyera didn’t visit Yuna often, but when she did, the apartment was much less disorganised. There were unwashed dishes in the sink, a few take out cartons and bags on the counter. An empty beer can or two. Hyera could see Yuna’s unmade bed and a pile of laundry on the floor, by the foot.
If that ugly necklace was laying about, it would take some time to find.
“Take your time, Yuna.” Hyera said at last. “Heartbreak isn’t easy.”
Yuna scoffed quietly. “You’re so mature now, Hyera. Yang Kyerin is a good influence on you.”
Hyera smiled. “I, too, broke up with Yang Kyerin.” She admitted.
“But you were so cute at christmas,” Yuna repeated, an eyebrow raised.
“She and I wanted different things,” Hyera explained. She left it at that. After the threesome, Kyerin had tried to meet up with her a few more times. Hyera told her never to contact her again. Kyerin hadn’t texted since.
“It’s a shame,” Yuna replied with a sigh. “Some things just don’t work out.”
“Sometimes, it’s not meant to be.” Hyera replied. She stood up. “I need to borrow your bathroom.”
Yuna nodded, gesturing to the opened bathroom door across the kitchen, next to Yuna’s bedroom corner. Hyera crossed the apartment slowly, glancing around.
She closed the bathroom door behind her and began her search. Yuna, it turned out, did not keep any jewellery in the bathroom. All there was left was a single toothbrush, a single tube of toothpaste, and a brush. Hyera checked the drawers cupboards and found only make-up, tampons, toilet paper and towels.
Nothing that would indicate that another person had once lived there.
Hyera flushed the toilet and ran the water in the sink to make a show of her trip, then left the bathroom. She lingered, staring at Yuna’s bed.
Yuna’s teardrop necklace was on her bedside table, alone.
“Shall we clean up a bit?” Hyera offered, approaching the laundry pile.
“It’s fine, I’ll deal with it-!” Yuna began, getting up. “I’ve been putting it off.”
Hyera glanced over at the other bedside table. There sat a lamp but nothing else. Was that Minjae’s side of the bed? Hyera wondered if she’d find a lost, stray red hair against the pillow?
“What are friends for, Yuna?” Hyera asked. “Let’s at least get the laundry done, and it’ll do you some good.”
Hyera hauled the laundry pile into a basket and handed it off to Yuna. She took it and headed to the communal laundromat down the hall. Hyera took her chance. She made Yuna’s bed, but didn’t find any lost old hair strands. She opened the drawers of the bedside tables. On Yuna’s side, there were photo albums, spare chargers and a small packet of tissues.
Not even a vibrator?? Hyera couldn’t believe it. She checked the other bedside table. It was completely empty save an old hair tie.
Hyera kept looking, wondering where Yuna would keep something as sentimentally disgusting as a cheap necklace. Hyera pursed her lips. She checked the closet- Yuna was so unitarian, all she found were her summer clothes in a box labelled as such, a collection of leather jackets and her suitcases and other pieces of luggage.
In her dresser, which was next to the closet, was a pointless cause, too. Hyera found Yuna’s panties, bras, and socks, but no secret stash of jewellery. She checked every other drawer and found what was meant to be there: clothes.
When Yuna returned, they picked up the rest of the items off of the floor. Yuna did the dishes as Hyera separated the garbage and recycling into the proper bins outside the dorm building. It was annoying work, but it gave Hyera the chance to snoop. She found nothing but a collection of earrings, rings and a few bracelets in a box, but no necklaces.
Not even a single cheap one.
“You can’t even tell someone else once lived here,” Hyera remarked once the cleaning was done.
Yuna took a deep breath. “Minjae had movers take all of her things pretty quickly. I made sure they took everything that was hers.”
Hyera nodded. Perhaps Minjae still had the necklace. Hyera would have to find it herself among Minjae’s things.
Perhaps. . . Perhaps Minjae hid it from her.
The thought made Hyera clench her fists. Yuna didn’t notice.
“Thank you, Hyera,” Yuna said after the silence lingered. “You didn’t have to do this.”
Hyera smiled her soft smile and took Yuna’s hand in hers. “I’m here for you, Yuna. Let me know if you want to join me at the club.”
Yuna nodded, but Hyera could tell that her heart wasn’t into the idea. No matter. As long as she stayed away from Cho Minjae, Hyera couldn’t care less.
Once Hyera was out of Yuna’s dorm building, she took out her phone.
I think Yuna’s feeling better. You should visit her! -OH
Kim Minji wrote back nearly instantly.
Really? I don’t want to impose . . . -KM
Her fridge is empty. Bring her some beer and groceries and she’ll be thankful. -OH
Hyera tucked away her phone and sighed to herself. Where would those idiots be without her?
Notes:
Hello everyone!!
This is the second to last chapter of Hyera's POV!! I love plotting and scheming mode Hyera so much.
I want to remind my lovely readers that I have a pinned post on tumblr- send me a number between 1 and 150 and I'll reply with a snippet of the mystery fic!! I'm planning on revealing the name of the fic once Midnight Ice is completed here. So check it out, send an ask.
The next chapter will be on monday morning!!!
Enjoy!!!
Chapter 39: Chapter Twenty: An Agreement
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The cafe that Minji chose was three blocks from Minji’s parents house and a forty five minute commute on the train for Yuna. She didn’t mind that Minji chose the location for them to meet, but the long commute gave her more than enough time to ruminate, as if she hadn’t done enough of that already.
With the sun dazzling overhead and not a single cloud in the sky, Yuna wasn’t surprised to see that the cafe was full. The terraces outside were the busiest, with there still being some indoor seating still available. Yuna spotted Minji in the corner, perusing a menu of colourful iced drinks.
“I’m sorry I’m late,” Yuna said when she arrived at the table. She tried her best to maintain eye contact with Minji, but Minji wasn’t. She kept her eyes focussed on the table before her. “The train was delayed.”
“No worries,” she replied softly. “I just got here, too.”
Yuna sat across from Minji, recalling all of the times they had gone on dates, sitting across from each other, pouring over menus and ordering new things to try. Minji was always teasing her to try a new dessert. Yuna wished she had.
“How have you been?” Yuna asked after a beat.
Minji swallowed hard, finally meeting Yuna’s eyes. She seemed calm. “It’s been a rough couple of days.”
Yuna only nodded. She knew that the pain and the tears she had shed were nothing compared to Minji’s. A waitress came by and took their orders. Minji ordered a vanilla iced latte and Yuna ordered a black iced coffee.
“I’ve been thinking a lot,” Minji began once the waitress left their table.
“Me too,” Yuna admitted. She couldn’t shake off the revelation she had made the few days before. It was a bold, unusual result of tallying up the evidence.
“I. . . I know you still love Cho Minjae.” Minji began, her voice growing softer, sadder. Yuna almost didn’t want to hear her say any more words. “And I know that maybe we’re just . . . What’s the saying? Ships passing in the night?”
Minji smiled up at Yuna, tears building up in her eyes.
“Oh, Minji,” Yuna began. She reached out to take Minji’s hand but Minji pulled it away.
“I don’t want to compete with anyone else. I don’t want to have to worry about . . . About you thinking about her . . . I don’t want to lose you, but I think I already did.” Minji took a long, deep breath and then met Yuna’s eyes once more. “I know Cho Minjae is important to you, Yuna, and I won’t get in the way of you two.”
Yuna averted her eyes. Minji was better than her. Less of a coward and she wore her heart on her sleeve.
“Minji, I’m so sorry,” Yuna said after the waitress gave them their drinks. She stared at the deep brown, almost black iced coffee in front of her. She could see her own reflection. “You deserve so much better than me. You deserve every bit of happiness.”
“You do, too, Yuna,” Minji said as she brought her iced latte to her lips. “But there’s something I have to tell you.”
Yuna gulped. Her heart was already tight in her chest, threatening to spill. What more could Minji tell her?
Minji opened her purse and pulled out her cell phone. “Remember when I told you I started talking to Hyera again?” Minji asked. She tapped and scrolled a few times before showing Yuna the screen.
It was a series of text messages.
How was Jeju island??? -KM
Great! It was so warm! I swam the whole time!! -OH
Lucky!! I need to go sometime! Were you there for vacation? -KM
Nope! I got married! It was a small, family affair, actually. My parents had an invite cap. -OH
Really? So you’re married to Cho Minjae now? Congrats! -KM
I’m a happily married woman now :) :) -OH
Yuna and I will send a gift!!! -KM
Yuna furrowed her brow as her heart sank. Married?
“I thought she was getting married to Cho Minjae,” Minji explained, pursing her lips. “But we saw Cho Minjae at the art museum the weekend she went. There’s no way she got married to her.”
Yuna was caught between elation and confusion.
“Hyera . . . Hyera wants me to think she married Cho Minjae,” Yuna said, glancing up at her.
Minji nodded. “But she didn’t.”
“Why?” Yuna asked. “Why does she want me to think that?”
“Maybe she thinks you’re still in love with Cho Minjae?” Minji asked.
Yuna swallowed hard. She had told Hyera she still had feelings for Minjae. If Hyera had pretended to get married to Minjae, it was to rub their relationship in her face.
But why pretend? Why make up the lie?
“What are you thinking?” Minji asked, sipping her drink. “It’s weird, right?”
“It is.” Yuna replied. She glanced at Minji. “I . . . I think something’s wrong with Hyera’s and Minjae’s relationship.”
Minji frowned. “What do you mean?”
“Don’t you think it’s odd that I spent so much time looking for Minjae and only found her when Hyera told me about her?” Yuna asked. She needed to lay out the evidence for Minji. She couldn’t be alone in thinking about what she had realised. “Or that she quit WeiYoppu after succeeding in her interview? Or that the weekend we knew Hyera was in Jeju Island, we found Minjae out in public?”
Minji sat there, rubbing her chin. “It is strange.”
“Minjae told me she belonged to Hyera.” Yuna added. “That it was more than love. What if . . . What if Minjae does belong to Hyera? What if they have some sort of relationship based on ownership?”
“What?” Minji’s eyes went wide. “That’s crazy, Yuna. You know that’s crazy, right?”
Yuna nodded. “Minjae dropped off of the earth and we only found her because of Hyera. Hyera didn’t want us to find her unless it was on her terms. What if . . . What if Hyera is controlling Minjae? Manipulating her into doing those horrible things?”
Maybe it was the wishful thinking taking over, maybe Yuna wanted to absolve Minjae of the blame. If Hyera had manipulated Minjae into seducing her, into two timing her, then maybe she could forgive her. Was Hyera that awful? Was she projecting her bias upon her?
“That’s a huge accusation, Yuna,” Minji replied. “Don’t you think you could be overthinking it?”
“No. Hyera has manipulated me and I’m sure she’s manipulated you, too. Why? I don’t know. But she did.” Yuna swallowed hard, thinking of all of those times Yuna had slept with girls from various clubs, how Hyera had sent them her way. Sometimes she knew, sometimes she didn’t. Hyera orchestrated a friend group that would rely on her- Yuna for women, and what of Minji?
“She’s been a great friend!” Minji pursed her lips. “She’s always giving me great advice!”
“She’s been pushing you to and away from me, she had to be.” Yuna realised. “Remember after Minjae broke up with me? Hyera came over and helped me clean. You said Hyera had texted you about coming over with food, do you remember?”
Minji’s eyes went wide. “That was manipulation?!?” She asked loudly. An elderly couple next to their table gave her a side eye glare.
Yuna nodded. “I was vulnerable and she sent you to me. Remember how we finished the night?”
Minji blushed, nodding. “I do.”
With their bellies full and the beer cans empty, Yuna and Minji ended up in bed and hungover the next morning. It began a weekly tradition up until Yuna stopped partying and sleeping around to settle down.
“Hyera must have told Minjae to break up with me.” Yuna added. “And when I was heartbroken, she sent you my way so I would move on.”
“Why would Minjae obey Hyera?” Minji asked. “Why can’t she stand up for herself?”
Yuna didn’t understand that part. She supposed it was easier said than done to just ‘stand up for yourself’. She only shrugged.
“I don’t know, Yuna . . .” Minji began. “Even if it’s true, what do we do? You said Minjae was in love four months ago.”
“She kissed back, Minji.” Yuna replied, her heart clenching at the memory of kissing Minjae in the gardens of the museum. “She kissed me back.”
Minjae kissed back and she moaned. Minjae . . . There was a need in that kiss, unspoken but it rang true.
“I just have this feeling,” Yuna swallowed hard. “I just have this feeling that she needs help. Maybe I’m wrong. Maybe I’m overthinking it. I just need to know she’s okay.”
Minji sighed. “You really are in love with her.”
Yuna glanced away, ashamed. “I’m sorry. I should be grovelling for forgiveness, not talking about Minjae.”
There was a long pause.
“Maybe so.” Minji smiled once more. “But if Minjae is that important to you, then I’ll help you.”
“You don’t have to, Minji,” Yuna said at once. Her heart warmed as she heard Minji’s offer but her stomach sank. Yuna truly was so shameless. “You should be healing, away from me. You should focus on yourself and I’ll take care of Minjae and Hyera.”
“You’re my best friend, Yuna.” Minji replied. Tears were glistening in those big green eyes once more. “If there’s someone you’re worried about, then I’m worried about them, too.”
Yuna swallowed hard. “Minji . . .”
“We can pretend to still be dating so that Hyera doesn’t get suspicious.” Minji offered. “And I’ll try to get closer to her.”
“You don’t have to do this, Minji.” Yuna repeated. Hyera was smart- if this truly was all a plan of manipulation, then they had no idea what Hyera was up to or what she’d do in retaliation.
Yuna hoped it wouldn’t come to that.
“And we just need to figure out where Hyera lives.” Minji said as she held up her phone. “That’ll get us a step closer to Cho Minjae.”
Yuna nodded and finally, she felt a glimmer of hope.
Notes:
Hello everyone!!
Minji is the MVP this chapter, obviously. Cinnamon roll, too precious for this world etc etc
I want to remind everyone that I have a pinned post on tumblr about the mystery fic!!! Go check it out!!!
Enjoy the chapter and see y'all saturday for Minjae's chapter!!
Chapter 40: Chapter Twenty One: Protection
Chapter Text
Minjae awoke to heavy footsteps she did not recognize. She pulled herself out of bed, her body aching and her head heavy from a lack of restful sleep. She couldn’t stay asleep long, and when she did, nightmares plagued her.
Throwing on her robe and pulling up its collar to hide the red leather at her neck, she glanced into the hallway outside of the bedroom. Hyera Unnie was there, arms crossed as two men were carrying bins from the guest bedroom.
Minjae’s heart dropped at once.
“Unnie!” Minjae called out, dashing down the hall and up to Hyera. She was cut off by one of the men, carrying the bin that Minjae knew for a fact that her laptop was in. “My stuff-!”
“-Needs to go into storage, my dear Minjae,” Hyera Unnie replied with a knowing smirk. “We need to renovate the guest bedroom, don’t you recall?”
Minjae hurried into the guest bedroom and found that it was completely empty- no spare bed, no boxes of Minjae’s belongings, no spare desk or anything.
“What’s going on?” Minjae asked before she could spin around, Hyera Unnie wrapped her arms around her waist from behind.
“I was going through those bins after our little talk the other night,” Hyera Unnie muttered into her ear. Her hands rested on the knot of her sash. “And found some interesting things. A laptop? New underwear and bras? A little love note?”
Minjae’s heart skipped a beat. “Unnie, please, let me explain-!”
“I told you, Minjae, I can provide for you. You don’t need to work.” Hyera began undoing the knot.
Minjae gulped. The men were out of the condo, but she had no idea if they would return. Her robe fell open, revealing her naked body.
“And those clothes? You don’t need them.” Hyera cupped Minjae’s breasts softly. Minjae held her breath, trying to hold back a moan. “You’re dressed perfectly like this. Easy access for me to play with you.”
“Unnie,” Minjae began softly. Her heart was pounding wildly in her chest.
“And that note?” Hyera squeezed her breasts, massaging her a little more roughly. “You tried to hide that from me, didn’t you?”
“Ha-!” Minjae let out a moan. She tried to wiggle free but Hyera did not relinquish her hold on her. “Unnie-!”
“Do you really think Kang Yuna is waiting for you, Minjae?” She pinched both of Minjae’s nipples hard. Minjae’s back arched as she cried out. “After she found out the truth about you? About what a slut you are?”
Minjae cried out again, tears prickling her eyes. She thought of that kiss (I should hate you. I should despise you) and how she didn’t feel any of that hate.
Hyera led Minjae to the bare wall, pinning her back there. She cupped Minjae’s face, smiling softly.
“I’m doing this for you, Minjae.” She added softly. “I’m protecting you from heartbreak. Kang Yuna doesn’t love you, Minjae. She has Kim Minji.”
Minjae closed her eyes, feeling the tears escape and roll down her cheeks.
“Kang Yuna has been in love with Kim Minji for years. She finally has her. You were nothing but a distraction.” Hyera muttered, resting her forehead against Minjae’s. “I’m sorry, Minjae.”
Minjae let out a sob. She didn’t know what to think anymore. It was all a hazy, hurricane mess in her head. If Kang Yuna still loved her, how would she ever know? What could they do? Kang Yuna had Kim Minji. Minjae was Hyera’s.
“But you have me.” Hyera Unnie continued. “You will always be mine and I’ll always take care of you.”
“Unnie!” Minjae sobbed, clinging to Hyera.
“Let it all out, Minjae,” Hyera cooed as she pulled her close and smoothed out her hair. Minjae hated that she needed that kind of comfort. She hated how much she loved being held daintily by Hyera Unnie. She hated that Hyera Unnie was the one to reassure her. “I’ll never abandon you, Minjae. I will be there for you.”
Minjae cried until her head began to ache, until she shook from fatigue. Hyera Unnie helped her back to the bedroom, where Minjae watched as Hyera Unnie knotted her sash once more and eased her into bed. Minjae fell asleep once more, but her heart ached so terribly.
She dreamt of cramped, small bedrooms and the shadow that constantly haunted her. Instead of waking up in a cold sweat, Minjae woke up still thinking of heavily perfumed flowers.
Chapter 41: Chapter Twenty Two: Lovelorn
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
If there was anything to distract Yuna, it would be routine.
In the wake of the recent discoveries and the lack of Minji and the dogs to occupy her with, Yuna was left with very little to do. In her younger, more immature days, she’d fill the empty hours with partying, with other women. However, this time around, Yuna found herself apartment shopping after the long hours at the office.
Once the day was done, Yuna spent too much time with brokers, trying to find an apartment closer to work and trying to rent out the one she was currently in, before giving up. After a few hours of that, Yuna smoked near an open window and drank beer while the television droned on, as she scrolled her uninteresting social media pages.
Her mind always wandered to Minjae. Especially at night.
After her shower, Yuna would collapse into bed, exhausted. But not too exhausted. Her mind would race, combing through the evidence, the clues, she had gathered. How could Yuna be sure? She had no idea.
If Minjae truly belonged to Hyera in the sense of ownership, in some sort of powerplay . . . Yuna had no idea if Minjae even consented to it.
An image of Minjae all tied up flashed in Yuna’s mind. Red ribbons across her pale skin, digging into her soft curves. Her legs splayed open and ready for whomever . . .
Yuna lowered her hand into her shorts.
The shame was quickly washed away with arousal. Yuna moaned as she rubbed her clit harder. She recalled the times she was on top of Minjae, hearing her moan so loudly, feeling her walls clench down on her fingers, the taste of her arousal on her tongue and lips . . .
Yuna cried out when she came, letting the orgasm linger and prolonging it into a second climax when she slid her fingers inside. Bucking her hips, Yuna thought of how she had kissed Minjae, how she moaned, how she held onto her. The fragrant flowers surrounding them, the warm summer breeze . . .
Yuna fell asleep easily that night, for the first time in a long time.
*
“Kang Yuna, is that you??”
Yuna glanced up from her phone. She had run out of cigarettes and during her lunch break, she made her way to the corner store nearby. The person who stopped her seemed familiar, but Yuna couldn’t put her finger on it.
She was a slimmer girl, with black, shoulder length hair and large, dark eyes. Yuna was sure she’d seen her before. She wore a white t-shirt and a black tank top over it, and a pair of high rise black shorts.
“Yes . . ?” Yuna began, trying to place her.
“Oh! You don’t recall! I’m Yang Kyerin!” The young woman said as she bowed quickly. “We met once, on a double date?”
Yuna gasped quietly. Yes! Yang Kyerin! She sat diagonally from her at the table, all those years ago.
“Yes, I remember now! I’m sorry!” Yuna gave a quick bow as well. “How are you?”
“I’m great!” Kyerin replied with a wide grin. “I’m off to meet my girlfriend!”
“That’s great to hear,” Yuna said. “I’d love to chat but-!”
“Here’s my card,” Kyerin dug into her purse and handed Yuna a card as she bowed. “I’d love to chat with you and catch up!”
Yuna took the card and glanced at it.
LOVELORN
Adult toy store
Her eyes went wide, then she recalled that Yang Kyerin worked at a sex shop.
“My sister is paying me in commission. You should bring your girlfriend! And browse!” Kyerin offered.
Yuna blushed but did not correct her. “Umm, sure. I’ll swing by.” She replied, unsure of what to say.
“Perfect! I’ll see you around! I work afternoons and evenings!” Kyerin bowed once more, then made her way past Yuna.
Yuna stood there for a moment, a little confused, as she stared at the card.
Then, she thought that perhaps Yang Kyerin could be of some help.
*
Kang Yuna never thought of herself as a prude.
She always knew that she preferred women and she lost her virginity at fifteen to a classmate. She liked sex and wasn’t afraid to seek it out. She lost count of the amount of the one night stands she had over the years.
She watched porn on occasion and masturbated when she needed to.
However, stepping into Lovelorn on a weeknight, when it was perfectly empty save for Yang Kyerin at the counter, made Yuna blush like a virginal maiden.
“Welcome, Kang Yuna!” Kyerin greeted her enthusiastically.
Yuna froze in her spot by the door, then slowly glanced around. No one heard Kyerin announce her full name, so she let out a long breath.
“Don’t be nervous! Come on in!” Kyerin exclaimed.
“Uh, good evening, Yang Kyerin,” Yuna replied, hating that she sounded so nervous. She tried to keep her gaze fixed upon Kyerin and avoid the rows upon rows of sex toys in the shop.
“So you decided to come after all!” Kyerin rounded the counter and gestured to a comically large yet seemingly realistic dildo that was on display nearby. “Are you shopping for yourself or your girlfriend?”
Yuna blushed then glanced away from the dildo and ended up staring at a female mannequin in full leather BDSM harness and straps, a red ball gag, and blindfold. She stared at the floor.
“Uh, I don’t really have a girlfriend at the moment.” Yuna replied.
“What, really? What happened between you and that red headed girl? Cho Minjae, right?” Kyerin asked, gasping.
“It’s a long story. Actually, I didn’t come here to shop at all, can we talk in private somewhere else?” Yuna asked, daring to glance up.
Yang Kyerin was grasping the dildo tightly. It looked huge in her dainty, small hands. Yuna glanced away.
“I’m the only one on the floor tonight since my sister is on a date,” Kyerin replied with a sigh and gestured with the dildo. “So I need to keep an eye on the shop. Never know when I’ll get a customer!”
Yuna groaned internally. Every moment in the shop made Yuna die of embarrassment.
“Fine.” Yuna made her way to the counter. At least behind the counter was just a collection of lubricants and massage oils. She could manage to look at that.
“So, what is it?” Kyerin asked, joining her at the counter. “If you’re not here to shop?”
“I want to ask you about Oh Hyera and your relationship to her,” Yuna began, finally shaking off the majority of the embarrassment. She glanced at Kyerin and saw that she still held the dildo. “Can you please put that away?”
Kyerin laughed and replaced it. “Sorry! Bad habit of mine!” She leaned on the counter, facing the other direction. “Oh Hyera came to the store to buy some toys and I’ll be really honest, but she’s super hot, right?”
“What kind of toys did she buy?” Yuna asked.
“Oh! Curious, huh?” Kyerin teased. “Technically, I can’t tell you that.”
Yuna sighed. “Of course not.”
“But, that’s how we met.” Kyerin continued. “We had sex a few times, then she asked me to be her date. Remember, on Christmas eve, like five years ago?”
“I remember,” Yuna replied. It was a completely unexpected experience- Oh Hyera never had a girlfriend to introduce to her before. Yuna had always assumed she was the fooling around type. But in hindsight, the date was just Oh Hyera pulling the strings around Minjae, wasn’t it?
“She made me wear this collar,” Kyerin added. Yuna glanced at her to see Kyerin touching her neck. “She said it would make Cho Minjae jealous. That was my job, you know.” Kyerin, very suddenly, looked apologetic. “To make Cho Minjae jealous.”
“A collar?” Yuna repeated. “Like, for dogs?”
Kyerin walked away and came back with a black leather collar. “In a lot of the BDSM plays, the submissive could be wearing a collar. It’s to signify their submission to their master.” She showed Yuna the collar, how it buckled and unbuckled so easily. “Oh Hyera mentioned she might get one for Cho Minjae. I never saw her with one, though.”
Yuna swallowed hard. “Wait, so you saw Cho Minjae again?”
Kyerin hesitated, gripping the collar. “Please don’t be upset with me. I. . . Oh Hyera invited me over the next night, after the date, and then she invited Cho Minjae over.” Kyerin began in a small voice. “We. . . We had sex.”
“What?” Yuna stared at Kyerin, trying to process everything. “The three of you?”
Kyerin nodded. “I. . . I don’t know what to say but it went a lot better than my first threesome, I can tell you that much.”
“Did . . . Was Minjae a willing participant?” Yuna asked.
“What? Of course!” Kyerin looked scandalised, gasping. “I would never-!”
“I mean, did she know about the threesome before it happened? Or did she make a fuss?” Yuna corrected herself.
“Oh.” Kyerin stood there, tapping her chin. “Honestly, I don't think she did. It took her some time to warm up to me, though. I think she was just shy.”
Yuna swallowed hard once more.
“Can I ask why you’re asking all of these questions? What’s going on?” Kyerin asked. She put down the collar and slid off her black masquerade mask. “Did you and Cho Minjae break up because of the threesome?”
“No. . .” Yuna tried to rack her brain for more questions, to make sense of the answers. “No, I’m just trying to make sense of Oh Hyera.”
“Hmm,” Kyerin pursed her lips. “Look, I’ve done a lot of thinking since my time with Oh Hyera.”
Yuna glanced up at her, then stood up straight.
“I was lonely back then and Oh Hyera made me feel special.” She laid a hand over her heart. “I had just gotten out of a terrible, one sided relationship with another woman and all I wanted was to feel loved. Oh Hyera could do that, you know? She could make you feel like the only girl in the world.
“And I saw how she looked at Cho Minjae. I saw how she treated her. In the moment, the threesome was fun, but the more I think about it, I was just a tool. I was there to help Oh Hyera punish Cho Minjae.” Kyerin continued. She lowered her hand.
“Punish her for what?” Yuna asked, frowning.
Kyerin shrugged. “I don’t know.”
Yuna crossed her arms.
“Sometimes subs and Doms have games that not everyone can understand,” Kyerin shrugged. “I guess I was just a small part of that.”
“Subs and Doms-?” Yuna repeated.
“-But I have my Juyeon now!” Kyerin cupped her face and grinned ear to ear. “Huh, subs and Doms? You don’t know-?”
Yuna blushed. “-I’ve heard of it, okay? But do you think Oh Hyera and Cho Minjae have that kind of relationship?”
Kyerin paused, then nodded. “I think so. Their dynamic reminds me of it a lot. With the things Oh Hyera had bought, and the way she treated Cho Minjae . . . I’d be surprised if they weren’t.”
“Thank you, Yang Kyerin. You were really helpful.” Yuna said at once. It was all she needed to hear.
“No problem! And to return the favour, can I interest you in some of our top of the line vibrators?” Kyerin grabbed Yuna’s wrist and tugged her along to the row of boxed vibrators. “Half of my pay is commision based now, so it would help a lot!”
Yuna stared at the lurid pink vibrator and the embarrassment flushed over her once more.
“ . . . Fine, only because you were so helpful.” She said begrudgingly.
“Yay!” Kyerin exclaimed. “Thank you for your business!”
Yuna paid with cash, so as not to sully her credit card history with such a purchase and left the shop, but not before getting an eyeful of scantily clad mannequins near the window in lacy lingerie.
She was never so glad to leave a shop before.
Notes:
Hi everyone!! Two chapters today since Minjae's was a little on the short side.
About Yuna's chapter: I wrote this chapter before the chapter of the manhwa where Minji goes to the sex shop to get toys and all that. In my mind, Yuna doesn't need all of the bells whistles of toys, not just because she feels like she doesn't need it, but also because she's slightly prudish haha.
Also this chapter sheds a bit of light on Yang Kyerin!! If you read sadistic beauty and side story A, you'll know what she's talking about.
The next chapter will be on wednesday, since that's my next day off. Enjoy the chapters!!
Chapter 42: Chapter Twenty Three: Dreams and Nightmares
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
More often than not, Minjae woke up alone in the middle of the night.
The condo was completely dark and silent. Only her wildly beating heart, the blood pumping in her veins could be heard.
Minjae panted, trying to push the image out of her mind- in the darkness of a bedroom she was in before, a long time ago. She was trembling, she realised, when she tried to get out of bed. She was shaking all over.
The dreams were getting worse.
Minjae didn’t like walking around the condo at night. It was too dark, too empty. With Hyera now living with her new husband, Minjae had the entire condo to herself. She made her way to the kitchen, turned on all of the lights, and poured herself a glass of cold water as she waited for the kettle to boil.
When the water began to boil, Minjae prepared herself a cup of herbal tea. Usually, a mug of tea would help calm her down, to clear her thoughts. Lately, not so much. Minjae covered her eyes as she sat at the kitchen table, trying to push away the confusing, swirling thoughts in her mind.
How did this happen? Minjae wondered how it all got away from her. How did she end up alone like this? Minjae stared up at the ceiling, her eyes hot with tears all of the sudden.
Was Hyera Unnie right? Did Yuna hate her? Did she act on impulse? Did she go home to Kim Minji after kissing her and continued on with life?
How would she know if Yuna still loved her? After everything she did? If Yuna knew everything, would she have kissed her the same way in the gardens?
Why have the sex crazed Minjae when there was Kim Minji- the sweet, naive girl who wouldn’t dare be so brazen, so lewd? Yuna shouldn’t want her and it made Minjae’s heart ache in her chest.
Once the water was ready, Minjae dropped the tea bag in and waited for it to steep. She watched as the dried flowers and herbs bloomed in the hot water.
She even spotted a red hibiscus flower petal.
Minjae tried to hold back her sobs, but she couldn’t.
*
“My, my, Minjae, still asleep so late in the day?”
Minjae’s eyes sprung open and she saw at once that Hyera was on top of her, her hands on her bare breasts.
“Unnie?” Minjae began, trying to shake the sleep from her eyes, from her system. She was completely naked- she hadn’t fallen asleep that way- and with Hyera between her parted legs and her hands on her chest, Minjae could put together the pieces easily. “What are you doing here?”
“I came to visit you, my dear Minjae,” Hyera replied with a soft smile. “I missed you.”
Hyera massaged Minjae’s breasts softly, leaning down to kiss each nipple delicately. Minjae couldn’t help but gasp, arching her back slightly.
“Unnie . . .” Minjae began. She almost didn’t want to admit it, but she missed Hyera Unnie. More often than not, Hyera was not in the condo. She spent the majority of her days with her new husband.
“Did you miss your Unnie?” Hyera asked. She ran her tongue across Minjae’s pert nipple. Minjae nodded. “Good girl. I hope you’ve been better behaved lately.”
“Yes, Unnie,” Minjae replied. Since that last punishment, Minjae had no urge for sex. With the lack of sleep and the tightness in her chest and the crushing silence of the condo, she didn’t dare. “I’ve been a good girl.”
Hyera Unnie smirked. “Good. I like it when you obey me, Minjae.”
However, with Hyera Unnie touching her, arousal was building in Minjae’s core. Perhaps it was Hyera Unnie’s praise that fueled her, that soft smile and delicate touch?
Hyera Unnie kissed the length of Minjae’s torso, taking her time to let her tongue and teeth graze her skin. Minjae squirmed, letting out gasps and moans the lower Hyera Unnie went.
“Do you like that, Minjae?” Hyera Unnie asked as she kissed the inside of Minjae’s thighs. “Do you like it when I’m gentle?”
Minjae nodded. “Y-yes, Unnie, I do.” She muttered, almost scared that Hyera would be cruel and take it all away.
Hyera Unnie kissed closer to Minjae’s opening. Her teeth dig into her flesh, but not too hard. Minjae gasped, bucking her hips.
“Do you . . . Do you think you deserve gentle, Minjae?” Hyera Unnie asked, moving to the other pale, soft thigh. Minjae whined slightly as she kissed her there, too, leaving little pink marks. “Hmm?”
Minjae swallowed hard. “Unnie . . .” she whined again.
“If I’m too gentle with you, you won’t be satisfied.” Hyera Unnie opened Minjae’s legs wider.
“Unnie, please . . .” Minjae watched as Hyera slid three fingers into her own mouth, wetting them.
“And I know you wanted to be satisfied, Minjae.” Hyera Unnie smirked as she pushed those same three fingers inside of her at once, ramming them in.
Minjae cried out- she wasn’t quite ready and it filled her up too tightly. She squirmed but Hyera Unnie placed her hand on Minjae’s hip to hold her down and steady. As Hyera Unnie kept up her fast pace, Minjae began to moan, holding onto the pillow under her head.
“This is more like it, hmm?” Hyera heaved one of Minjae’s legs over her shoulder and pushed deeper inside of her.
“Ha-! Unnie-!” Minjae cried out.
All of the sudden, the sensation of Hyera Unnie’s fingers ramming in and out of her was too intense. She cried, moving her hips along with her rhythm. It was all a haze- Minjae cried out, getting lost in the endorphins of Hyera Unnie’s touch. She melted into the mattress, her core tightening.
“Oh Minjae, don’t cum yet,” Hyera Unnie cooed. She pressed her thumb against Minjae’s clit, rubbing hard, tight circles at once.
At once, Minjae came. Her entire body shook as the numbness in her pelvis took over. She was screaming now, bucking her hips harder than before.
“Poor Minjae,” Hyera Unnie chuckled. She did not relent, making sure Minjae enjoyed every passing second of her pleasure.
Minjae couldn’t hold back her voice. She knew she was loud, she knew she was shameless. Her heart was going to explode if Hyera Unnie didn’t stop soon. Her body was on fire, shaking and trembling beyond her control.
“Unnie-! Ha-!” Minjae screamed, trying to pull her hips away, trying to pull her leg from Hyera Unnie’s shoulder.
Hyera Unnie leaned into Minjae, not relenting. It was too much. Minjae sobbed, writhing now under Hyera. It was a delicious, overwhelming pleasure that washed over her, that made her mind as numb as her core. Minjae almost didn’t want Hyera Unnie to stop. Waves and waves of intense, wonderful endorphins made Minjae weep, no longer fighting back.
When Hyera Unnie did pull away her hands, she replaced them with her mouth. Minjae, limp and exhausted already, didn’t stop her. She arched her back as Hyera Unnie resumed her hard work, making Minjae cum again and again with her mouth and tongue.
Minjae’s thighs were soaked by the time Hyera Unnie stopped. So was the bed, the sheets and even the mattress. As much as Minjae wanted to fall back asleep, Hyera Unnie ushered her into a hot bath as she stripped the sheets off of the bed.
Once in the bathtub and made sleepy, Minjae had time to come down from the high of Hyera’s wake up surprise. A sense of shame came over her, sinking into the deep pits of her soul. How could Minjae just lay there, enjoying Hyera Unnie’s attention and how she touched her?
How? After the past few days? After all of the days alone?
Minjae hated it.
“Minjae, are you almost done?” Hyera Unnie asked as she opened the bathroom door. Now that Minjae was more awake, she saw that Hyera Unnie was dressed in a form fitting light blue dress and her hair was tied back in a ponytail.
“Almost, Unnie,” Minjae replied. She splashed water on her face, in an effort not to feel too sleepy. She hadn’t been sleeping well and the nightmares were worse.
“Kim Minji and Kang Yuna brought us a lovely wedding gift,” Hyera Unnie announced. She grabbed a towel and held it out for Minjae. “Let’s go and open it, hmm?”
Minjae sat in the tub, eyes wide. A wedding gift?
“What do you mean?” Minjae asked, turning to face her completely.
Hyera Unnie was smiling. “I told Kim Minji that we got married on Jeju Island.” She shook the towel at an arm’s length. “C’mon Minjae, let’s go.”
“But-!” Minjae began, her heart pounding once more. She tried to make sense of everything. Her and Hyera? Married? Or at least, in the eyes of Kim Minji and Yuna . . . Her heart tightened terribly in her chest.
Was Kang Yuna under the impression that she and Hyera were married?
Slowly, Minjae climbed out of the bathtub and took the towel from Hyera Unnie. In a daze, she followed Hyera Unnie to the kitchen where a large gift basket sat on the table, wrapped in cellophane.
“Kim Minji came over the other day and gave this to us,” Hyera Unnie explained as she wrapped an arm around Minjae’s waist. “They were disappointed to miss the ceremony, but they were gracious enough to send a gift.”
Hyera Unnie plucked the envelope from the basket and handed it to Minjae. “Go on, read it aloud for me.”
Minjae nodded, taking a deep breath as she did.
To the happy couple, Cho Minjae and Oh Hyera,
We wish you every happiness in your life together! Cherish your time together as a couple!
Your very good friends,
Kim Minji and Kang Yuna
Minjae’s throat became thick very suddenly. She handed the card to Hyera Unnie.
“They even sent money!” Hyera replied, counting the bills. “I’m glad they’re not cheap.”
“Unnie, but . . . but we’re not married,” Minjae began, holding onto her towel.
“You belong to me, don’t you?” Hyera Unnie replied easily. She put down the card and the bills to cup Minaje’s face. “You’re all mine. What’s the difference?”
Minjae swallowed hard, lowering her eyes.
“Exactly.” Hyera Unnie kissed her forehead. “And I’m sure that when Kim Minji and Kang Yuna get married, we’ll send them an even better gift than this.”
Minjae’s heart sank. Of course Kim Minji and Kang Yuna would get married. High school sweethearts who overcame obstacles of every kind, joined by marriage.
“Look at this fancy bottle of wine!” Hyera Unnie exclaimed.
Emerging from her train of thought, Minjae glanced up and saw that Hyera Unnie had torn the cellophane wrapping off of the gift basket. There were expensive treats, bottles of wine and even a gift certificate for a restaurant. Hyera Unnie held the bottle of wine close to read the fine print of the label.
Slowly, Minjae reread the card. It was written in Kang Yuna’s handwriting. She knew it was her the moment she spotted the neat penmanship, the careful strokes of each character.
Was there a point in still being in love with Kang Yuna? Minjae didn’t know. She didn’t know how she got to this point, but there she was, in a towel and a red leather collar in the kitchen of a condo she didn’t own, watching Hyera Unnie open up their wedding gift for a wedding that didn’t exist. Her body hummed from the earlier orgasms, but a terrible, unnamed sadness was overpowering her.
Unemployed, alone, and sad.
Minjae wasn’t where she belonged.
And that thought scared her.
Notes:
Hey!!! So sorry that I did not post on Wednesday!!! The family laptop's keyboard absolutely DIED on tuesday. We tried everything but taking it to Staples to get it sent away and fixed. We're using a blutooth keyboard now.
Anyway, besides that, I have my first cold since christmas and it really sucks. I cannot breathe through my nose and I'm too busy to rest :( So comments would really be appreciated haha
Chapter 43: Nineteenth Intermission
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“Father, don’t you think it’s a bit much?” Hyera asked once the waiter served the tea pot and four cups of tea.
Father sat directly across from Hyera, which was the norm, however, Mother sat next to her. Hyera served the tea, but hesitated at the fourth cup.
“Are we expecting someone?” Hyera asked, glancing up at Father.
Father cleared his throat. “Hyera, your mother and I have been very patient with you.”
Oh dear, not this conversation again. Hyera picked up her cup of tea and sipped it. It was her father’s favourite, as usual.
“We let you move out, we gave you your freedom, and you’ve done well in your studies.” He continued. Father, on the outside, was an intimidating man. Greying hair, a stern expression, and narrowed, red eyes. He often wore a suit and Hyera had to admit, since moving out, she rarely saw him dress in anything less than business casual. Even today, for their early supper at the Hotel, he was in a blazer and tie. Dark blue, as he always preferred.
Mother, on the other hand, was where Hyera gained her good looks. She sat next to Hyera, her dainty hands on her lap, agreeing with Father’s words. She pulled back her pale pink hair in a low chignon and wore very little makeup, if none at all. Her dress was always so conservative- Hyera wondered if she ought to have thrown on a cardigan, especially if they were expecting a guest.
“But we had hoped you would slow down on the . . .” Father paused, searching for the right word.
“The lesbianism, Father?” Hyera offered, sipping her tea.
“Yes, that.” He cleared his throat once more. “But the housekeepers say you have a singular, frequent guest.”
“Aren’t I allowed to have friends sleepover, Father?” Hyera asked. She never gave into emotion with her father. It would fuel his opinion of her as a carefree rich girl and it wasn’t one she wanted to cultivate.
“Hyera,” Mother said at once. “We’re not idiots. We know about your lovers.”
Hyera raised an eyebrow. “Lovers? I don’t have lovers, Mother.”
“It ends once you graduate, Hyera.” Father continued firmly.
Hyera lowered her tea cup. “And why is that?” She asked politely.
“There he is!” Mother exclaimed.
Hyera turned her head and saw past her mother. Across the dining room, a waiter was escorting a tall man towards them. Hyera observed him, narrowing her eyes slightly.
He wore a simple black suit, well tailored. His hair was coiffed for volume, but not too much. He had a strong jaw, and thin lips. His eyes were fixed on Hyera.
“Hello Mr Oh, Mrs Oh and Miss Oh,” the young man said with a bow.
“Park Junmyeon! You’re almost late!” Father said at once. He gestured for him to sit. “Please, join us.”
Hyera watched him and at once she knew why.
“Hyera, this is Park Junmyeon.” Mother began, smiling from ear to ear. “He will be graduating from University B next year.”
“What are you majoring in?” Hyera asked, inspecting him. There was a good chance he was older than her, but she didn’t want to be too familiar with him yet.
His gaze hadn’t left hers since he approached the table. He smiled an easy smile.
“Business and marketing.” Junmyeon replied. “And what about you, Miss Hyera?”
“Liberal arts, with a minor in administration,” Hyera stated.
“Interesting,” Junmyeon said. He took his cup of tea and drank it away.
“Park Junmyeon is the eldest son of Park Junwoo, CEO of Vista Foods,” Father began with an approving smile. “You’ll be enlisting soon after your graduation, correct?”
“Yes,” Junmyeon replied with a bow of his head. “I plan to enlist right after, so that I can work in my father’s company and rise the ranks uninterrupted.”
“Some boys these days put off their enlistment,” Father scoffed. “Afraid of what’ll happen to them.”
Hyera tried hard not to roll her eyes. She drank the rest of her tea. Her mother gave her a look.
“So, let’s skip the formalities,” Father said at once, glancing from Park Junmyeon to Hyera. Hyera kept her gaze steady, mentally preparing herself for the next few words. “I’ve already spoken with Park Junwoo about this, and it’s time to announce it, isn’t it? Your great father and I have decided that the two of you will make a lovely match!”
Hyera widened her eyes for a split second. She should have known. Or at least guessed that her father would try to marry her off. She glanced at Park Junmyeon. He seemed unfazed. He smiled politely at her, when their eyes met, but Hyera glanced away.
“What do you think, Hyera?” Mother asked with a wide smile. “Park Junmyeon is so handsome! And well connected!”
“I’m sure he is, Mother,” Hyera replied coolly.
“I’m honoured that you consider me a good enough match for your only daughter, Mr Oh,” Junmyeon said in the most humble, polite of tones.
“Oh no, we’re honoured that you deem Hyera acceptable for a man of your stature!” Father replied. Hyera hid her frown as she poured herself and Mother more tea. “Hyera is a fiery girl, very willful. She will be a handful, I’m sure.”
“I look forward to meeting that side of her.” Junmyeon replied, glancing at Hyera.
“Then let’s speak in private. I need to know more of my future husband without prying eyes,” Hyera said at once. She kept her clenched fists under the table.
Her parents changed looks, then agreed. Once they had left the table for the bar, Hyera glared at Junmyeon.
“Don’t look so upset, Miss Oh,” Junmyeon said casually as he sipped his tea. “You are the one that receives the benefits of this arrangement.”
Hyera scoffed. “Am I, now?”
Junmyeon smirked. “Your parents told me about your. . . proclivities towards the same sex.”
“And what of it?” Hyera replied. “Does that intimidate you? Put you off from marrying me?”
“My father only wants this marriage because your father owns hotels all over Korea and is planning on expanding.” Junmyeon explained. “I much rather wait until I’m more established.”
“I would rather throw myself off a building than marry a man,” Hyera admitted. “I don’t need to marry you.”
Junmyeon smirked again, toying with the lip of the tea cup. “No, but your father needs you to marry me.”
“How so?”
Hyera watched as Junmyeon sat up and placed his elbows on the table. He leaned forward.
“He owes my father some money. A substantial amount of money. A way to ease the debt is marriage.” Junmyeon replied with a smirk. “And since you’re an only child . . .”
“Don’t you have a little sister?” Hyera asked, frowning.
“She’s only sixteen. I suppose you must have the decency to seduce adult women your age, correct?” Junmyeon asked, lowering his voice. “Anyway, I think that your father is trying to correct your . . . tastes.”
Hyera narrowed her eyes.
“We’ll marry in five years from now.” Junmyeon sat up and adjusted his blazer slightly. “You’ll have time to get it all out of your system and then you’ll be ready for me. We’ll have at least one child, enough to satisfy our parents, and then your father can repay his debt with the profits of his new hotels across south Asia.”
Hyera stood up at once, trying to control her anger.
Her outrage.
Her wrath.
“Make all of the plans that you want, Park Junmyeon.” Hyera said in a cold, restrained voice. “But it’ll be ten thousand years before they come true.”
Hyera grabbed her purse and stalked off. She ignored her parents calling after her, demanding that she return. Hyera kept walking until she was blocks away from the hotel, on the boulevard. She called a taxi and headed home.
*
Cho Minjae had fallen asleep on the couch when Hyera had returned.
Her blood was boiling, coursing through her.
She stared at her clenched hands, her knuckles white. She threw down her purse, not caring about the make up she had brought, or the fact that her phone was in there. She wanted to smash. She wanted to tear down the walls, she wanted to scream.
Hyera glanced over at Cho Minjae. The television was playing softly in the background. Some drama, Hyera was sure of it, was playing. Minjae’s robe was tied at her waist, but the opening at her chest showed an ample amount of breast. Her robe rode up her bare thigh.
Hyera rounded the couch and knelt down in front of her. Minjae’s lips were parted, but she was asleep.
Minjae belonged to her.
And if Hyera couldn’t scream, then someone else had to.
Hyera undid the simple knot at Minjae’s waist and threw open her robe. She pulled down Minjae’s white panties and left them to dangle at her ankles. She parted her thighs, her heart racing in anticipation.
She had just realized that she hadn’t fucked Minjae while sleeping before. She’d always nudge her awake first.
The forbiddenness of it all made her core tightened.
She began at Minjae’s collarbone. She dotted slow, careful kisses across, then, she moved down. She cupped each of Minjae’s breasts, threatening to spill out of her dainty hands. Hyera kissed the tender flesh, moving to her nipples. She took each one between her lips.
Minjae did not stir. She was fast asleep. Hyera wondered if being fucked all day really was so tiring on the poor girl. Shouldn’t she be used to it by now?
Hyera kissed the length of Minjae’s torso, from between her breasts, down to her navel. She ran her tongue where her soft yet taut stomach ended and her hip began, hoping to hear a moan but no, Minjae did not stir.
She dotted her thighs with more kisses. Hyere even dared to nibble at her inner thigh. Nothing.
Hyera opened Minjae’s thighs wide enough for her head. She planted her mouth against Minjae’s opening. Only that morning Hyera had tasted Minjae, made her cry and cum. Was she still wet? Had she touched herself since? Hyera moved her mouth and tongue gently at first, exploring the warmth and dampness of Minjae’s pussy.
She was delectable. Minjae always was. Hyera consumed her- moving faster, harder, applying more and more pressure.
Minjae was stirring awake.
Hyera did not stop to explain herself. She wrapped her lips around Minjae’s clit, lapping it up, making sure Minjae would feel her frustration, her powerlessness.
“Hm- Ha-!” Minjae began to moan, her hips rolling slightly. “Unnie-?”
Hyera slid two fingers inside of her, knuckle deep. Minjae let out a gasp, almost paralyzed. Minjae was wet already, her pussy clenching down on her fingers. Hyera continued, pushing in and out.
“Unnie-! What-? What’s going- ha-! On?” Minjae cried out, trying to sit up.
Hyera slid in a third finger, in an attempt to shut Minjae up. She pumped harder than before and her protests and questions began to drown out with her own moans. Hyera didn’t plan on stopping. She needed this.
Hyera needed to conquer and control.
Minjae’s cries bordered on sobs, her hips bucking as Hyera continued. She curled her fingers, sucking on Minjae’s clit with more force. She could feel Minjae clenching down even harder, the wetness pouring out of her. Her moans became so desperate, and loud, Hyera was sure that anyone passing by her door would hear her lovely Minjae cum.
“Ha-! Ha-!” Minjae was sobbing now, her hips so wild as she came. Hyera did not relent. She couldn’t. Minjae needed all of it. Every single moment of pleasure, of unrelenting passion. She couldn’t stop even if she wanted to. “Unnie-!”
A loud cry told Hyera that Minjae was done.
Hyera was not.
She relented only her fingers, and replaced them with her own mouth and tongue.
“Unnie-! Stop-!” Minjae moaned lewdly. Her hips tried to buck away, but Hyera held them in place. “Ha-! It’s-! It’s too much-!”
Hyera didn’t care. She pushed her tongue inside, lapping up the length of her opening, tasting her arousal. Minjae was so tasty, so perfect. Her opening was swollen from earlier, but it made her all the much more alluring.
“Unnie-!” Minjae squirmed now. “Ha-!”
This time, Hyera slid in four fingers. A tight fit, but Minjae accepted them with wide eyes, staring down at her. A perfect fit. Hyera smiled, slowly pushing in and out. She watched Minjae, her face flushed, her thighs trembling.
“Unnie-!”
Hyera, once again, wrapped her lips around Minjae’s clit. The girl cried out at once. Hyera took this as encouragement, pumping harder than before. Her arm was close to being sore, but she couldn’t stop herself. It would take more than an exhausted arm to stop her from fucking Minjae.
Minjae’s cries as she came again rang throughout the apartment. She was nearly screaming, squirming and bucking her hips again and again.
“Unnie-! Please-! No-! No more-!” Minjae begged.
Hyera pulled her fingers from Minjae, sopping wet and tinted with blood.
Perhaps she was a tad too rough.
“Did I surprise you?” Hyera asked in a calming, soft voice.
Minjae laid on the couch, panting heavily. She was spent, absolutely exhausted.
“I . . . I wasn’t expecting you-” Minjae began.
Hyera stood up and left the living room. She went to the bathroom to clean off her hand and her mouth and chin, which were wet as well. Once she was cleaned enough of Minjae’s arousal, she returned to Minjae. She hadn’t moved an inch.
“I saw you sleeping there,” Hyera began, sitting on the couch, pinning Minjae’s hips behind her to the backrest. “And I couldn't help myself, Minjae. You’re so beautiful . . . I wanted to touch you. Make you cum.”
Minjae smiled a small smile. “I . . . I’d like a warning . . . Next time . . .”
Hyera cupped Minjae’s face, kissing her lips gently.
“Why would I do that?” Hyera muttered. “You’re mine, aren’t you? I can do what I please.”
Minjae held her breath for a beat. “Yes, Unnie.”
Hyera helped Minjae to her feet and walked with her to the bathroom. She drew a bath and even fetched her a new silk robe and a pair of fresh panties. Hyera ordered a feast’s worth of food and many bottles of soju.
It would take more than five years to relinquish Minjae from her system.
And it would take more than an arranged marriage to separate her from her lovely Minjae.
Hyera would make sure of it.
Notes:
This is the final Hyera pov chapter (in this fic)!!! While writing this chapter, I finally felt like I was scratching the surface of Hyera's character and how her actions and behaviours could be linked back to this family script. Let's just say this was very helpful with the mystery fic :) :)
I want to add that if something comes up and I can't post on a day I've promised to post, I will have a post on tumblr about it. It may be pinned or not. It'll depend haha. Enjoy!!!
Chapter 44: Chapter Twenty Four: Help
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Minjae’s eyes snapped open the moment she heard the loud, frantic knocks at the door.
She sat up and grabbed the nearest robe and threw it on. Her own heart was pounding in her chest, forcing her awake and pushing the early dregs of her nightmare behind her. She glanced at the oven clock. It was only seven in the evening, but Minjae had fallen asleep after her lunch.
The frantic knocks did not relent. Minjae slowly approached the door, making sure her robe covered her properly and knotting the sash at the narrow of her waist. Minjae swallowed hard and approached the peephole in the door.
It was Kang Yuna.
Her heart nearly stopped. Minjae pulled away, backing into the closet door of the entrance way. What was she doing there? Had she come for Hyera Unnie? Minjae’s mind raced with possible explanations, but the knocking resumed after a brief pause.
With a slow, shaking hand, Minjae unlocked the door and opened it. She made sure that the collar of her robe was pulled up as high as possible.
Yuna stood there, her face lined with worry, her icy blue eyes wide and lips parted.
“Minjae, I found you.” Yuna said at once, stepping inside.
Minjae stood there for a beat, before closing the door. Hopefully the neighbours wouldn’t say a word. Yet at the same time, Minjae was too stunned for words. She stared up at her, unsure of what to do. Was she dreaming? Had she finally fallen asleep?
“Oh Minjae, you look terrible,” Yuna said, cupping Minjae’s face. “You’re so pale . . . Have you been sleeping well?”
Minjae gasped, her heart threatening to burst. She grabbed Yuna’s hands, letting her robe collar fall. Then, for a brief moment, Yuna’s gaze dropped to Minjae’s neck.
“What’s this-?” Yuna began, then she stopped.
“I-!” Minjae pulled out of Yuna’s hands and hurried away.
“Minjae!” Yuna followed her, grabbing her hand once she caught up with Minjae in the kitchen. “Minjae, I’m here to help you. Please, let’s talk. What are you wearing?”
Minjae’s hand flew to the medallion at the base of her throat, covering it up. Shame was rising inside of her. No, Yuna couldn’t know. She could never know.
“I . . . I think you should leave, Kang Yuna,” Minjae said at once.
“I’m not leaving until I get some answers.” Yuna replied, squeezing Minjae’s hand slightly. Her voice was tight, desperate. Minjae could feel it in her hand. “I came all this way to help you, Minjae. Let me help you!”
Minjae froze, then glanced at Yuna. “What makes you think I need help?”
Yuna swallowed hard but her gaze was locked on Minjae’s. Minjae hated it, how it made her feel as if she were being judged, or rather, how it made her feel so vulnerable.
“Minjae, I’ve been looking for you.” Yuna began. “And isn’t it funny that I found you only when Oh Hyera told me about you? About what happened five years ago?”
Minjae glanced away.
“Why is it that I ran into you in public the weekend that Oh Hyera went to Jeju Island?” Yuna asked, her voice a little louder, a little more assertive. “Why did you fall off of the earth after turning down the WeiYoppu job? I’ve been trying to figure it out, Minjae. I think I figured it out and if I’m right. . . .Well, I. . .”
Minjae glanced back up at Yuna to see her face a little more flushed and her eyes shining a little more in the low light of the kitchen.
“I don’t know if I want to be right, Minjae.” Yuna continued, her voice now thick with unfallen tears and emotion. “I want you to be happy. If you’re happy, I’ll leave you be. Are you . . . Are you happy, Minjae?”
Minjae stood there. Yuna still held her hand tightly. Minjae glanced down at the medallion, at the silk robe she wore. She glanced around the condo- sparsely decorated but still well furnished.
All of the loneliness that ached in her heart, the nightmares of dark bedrooms that haunted her, the lies and the lack of control.
All of the sudden, tears prickled Minjae’s eyes. She couldn’t hold them back. She closed her eyes tightly, willing the tears to stop, for them to disappear. Her shoulders trembled and Yuna squeezed her hand again.
“Minjae, please, talk to me.” Yuna took a step forward. “Please, no more secrets.”
“I . . . It doesn’t matter,” Minjae said, trying to control her voice. She let go of her medallion and turned to face Yuna. “I belong to Hyera Unnie. I told you this, Kang Yuna.”
Yuna didn’t react. She approached Minjae and scooped up the medallion to read the words.
“Property of Oh Hyera,” Yuna pursed her lips, then glanced up to meet Minjae’s tear filled eyes. “Oh, Minjae . . .”
Minjae glanced away again, shame raising up inside of her in a terrible wave. “I’ve always belonged to her.”
“No, you haven’t, Minjae,” Yuna pulled Minjae into a hug. “You don’t have to be, either.”
Minjae closed her eyes as tight as she could. She didn’t want to cry. She didn’t want to break down and sob. Yet Yuna smelled the same as she did five years ago- jasmine and tobacco. Minaje could feel her resolve melting away. She clung to Yuna, trying to hold back but every passing heartbeat made it harder and harder.
“If you were happy, Minjae, this wouldn’t be your reaction.” Yuna muttered.
Minjae froze in place. “It doesn’t matter.”
“It does matter, Minjae!” Yuna tightened the hug, her nose buried in Minjae’s hair. “It matters because you can choose who to be with. You have the choice! Oh Hyera took it away from you! You don’t have to stay here!”
“Where would I even go?” Minjae asked in a small voice.
“What about your family?” Yuna offered.
“I . . . I don’t speak to my family anymore.” Minjae admitted.
“Friends?”
Minjae shook her head.
Yuna held her even tighter. “Then you can stay with me.”
Minjae glanced up. “I can’t!”
“Yes, you can.” Yuna replied. “Minji moved out two weeks ago. I have my entire apartment to myself.”
Minjae stood there, her heart pounding. She was surrounded by too many possibilities and it scared her.
“I can’t leave.” Minjae said at last. “I belong to Hyera Unnie.”
Yuna cupped Minjae’s face once more. “You said your feelings were true. You loved me five years ago, didn’t you?”
Minjae nodded, tears threatening to spill. “But-!”
“And I still love you now.” Yuna added. “I still love you despite everything. I . . . I know about you and Oh Hyera. I know about the threesome with Yang Kyerin. I know it all.”
Minjae shook her head. “No, you don’t. You don’t know it all!”
Yuna frowned. “What do you mean?”
With a shaky breath, Minjae pushed Yuna away. “You won’t want me after I tell you what I did, Kang Yuna. I’m not who you think I am. I’m nothing more than a desperate slut, a whore!”
Minjae couldn’t hold back the tears. She couldn’t hold anything else back. She stood there, trembling. She had hoped she would never tell anyone about the things she had to do to prove herself loyal to Hyera Unnie.
“Minjae, what is it? What do you mean?” Yuna’s brow furrowed. She took a step forward but Minjae took a step back.
“I seduced my step brother, Kang Yuna.” Minjae said at once. “I gave him my body and then he stole it from me!”
Yuna’s eyes went wide. “Minjae,” she said softly. “You . . . You slept with him?”
Minjae nodded. She feared that if she spoke any more, she’d break down into a sobbing mess. She needed her dignity. She needed Yuna to leave. She couldn’t have her there- what Hyera Unnie was to visit? Minjae didn’t need this temptation. She didn’t need Kang Yuna to protect her when there was nothing she could do to help her.
“Minjae, did . . . Did Oh Hyera ask you to sleep with him?” Yuna asked after a beat.
She stood there, covering her mouth. How did Yuna know? How could she have guessed? Minjae nodded again.
“Oh, Minjae, you were forced.” Yuna said, her tone soft and delicate. She scooped Minjae up in another hug, but this time, she held her so softly, Minjae could feel every resolve, every barrier she had put up, melt away.
And then, Minjae finally cried. She wailed into Yuna’s chest, shaking.
“I’m sorry, Yuna!” Minjae sobbed. “I’m sorry!”
“You don’t have a thing to be sorry for,” Yuna muttered into her hair. “Let’s get you out of here, Minjae.”
Minjae shook her head. “I can't. I can’t leave.”
“Why not?” Yuna asked, frowning.
“I have no clothes.” Minjae admitted.
“I’ll call a taxi, okay?” Yuna offered.
Minjae nodded.
“Go get what you want to take with you, okay?”
Minjae wiped her eyes and nodded again. She didn’t dare hope, even as Yuna let go of her. She didn’t dare hope that all would be fixed. Minjae grabbed some underwear and her toiletries and stuffed them in a bag before leaving the condo behind.
*
The taxi ride was long, but Yuna had a lot to say.
“Oh Hyera won’t know you’re gone for ages,” Yuna explained in a low voice. “Minji is with her now, getting her drunk. Apparently Oh Hyera has stuff lined up for the weekend, so she won’t even visit you until Monday.”
Minjae grasped Yuna’s leather jacket a little tighter. She had offered it to her to cover up with, despite the fact that it was days before July and the leftover heat from the day still lingered. Only Kang Yuna would wear a leather jacket in the summer.
“Thank goodness for Kim Minji. She’s the one who’s been getting close to Oh Hyera for me. She’s the one that found the condo’s address.” Yuna added.
“I’ll have to thank her.” Minjae muttered.
The taxi drove through the long boulevards, heading towards the suburbs. Minjae wondered if Yuna had taken the train to get her. The lights of the city were beginning to shine bright against the darkening sky.
“I knew something was up,” Yuna said as the buildings became more sparse and less tall. The roads were narrowing and it looked as though they were in a small town, not a suburb of Seoul. “When you didn’t show up again at WeiYoppu.”
Once Yuna had paid for the extravagant taxi ride, Yuna led the way inside the apartment building. It was a three story building, and Yuna unlocked the door on the ground level. Once the lights were on, Minjae glanced around, amazed. The kitchen was a bit cramped for cooking, but there was a lot of floor space. A flat screen tv against the wall, a couch not too far away. There were some bare walls, and empty photo frames.
“You noticed I wasn’t there?” Minjae asked.
Yuna nodded. “Of course. I thought you had quit because of. . . of how I acted.” She blushed slightly.
Minjae blushed, too. “No, that wasn’t the reason.”
“Can I ask why?” Yuna asked, taking Minjae’s hand.
“Hyera Unnie . . . She asked me to stay with her. To never leave her side.” Minjae admitted. “And I couldn’t disobey her, so I turned down the offer a few days later.”
Yuna’s expression softened. “Are you hungry, Minjae?”
Minjae nodded. “I am.”
“Then let’s order something. I’m starving. We can talk later.” Yuna pulled out her phone. “What do you want to eat?”
“Anything,” Minjae admitted.
“I’ll get some tteokbokki, hmm?”
With the food ordered, Minjae excused herself to use the bathroom. There, she stared at herself in the mirror. Her eyes were red and her cheeks blotchy. She reached for the buckled and undid her collar. She stared at the medallion, her heart clenching.
Minjae knew she was unhappy with Hyera Unnie. She knew she didn’t want to be there. She was lonely, scared, and without any resources.
But why did running away with Kang Yuna feel so wrong?
*
As Minjae used the bathroom, Yuna went through her clothes.
It was all so much and Yuna couldn’t believe it. Everything from seeing Cho Minjae in a flimsy silk robe and a red leather collar. Her pale skin, the dark half moons under her eyes, the way she trembled. . . .
Yuna was furious. She was disgusted.
How could anyone treat someone like that?
Especially someone they claimed to love?
And every single time Minjae admitted something, it only made Yuna’s blood boil more.
Oh Hyera had taken advantage of Minjae- of her love, her loyalty, and her desire to please and twisted it so terribly, so horribly. She bent Minjae to her will and it made Yuna sick.
After finding some old t shirts and some sweatpants, Yuna knocked on the bathroom door.
“I found some clothes you can borrow.” Yuna announced. “Let me know if you need anything, okay?”
“Okay, thank you,” Minjae replied quietly.
By the time Minjae had gotten dressed, the food arrived. Yuna paid and set down all of the dishes she had ordered. In the rush of the plan being set into motion, Yuna hadn’t eaten very much that day. Now, in the safety of her own home, she was starving. Minjae sat across from her. The old WeiYoppu 2k run shirt that Minji had gotten for her was a tad small on Minjae. Yuna tried not to stare at how the thin fabric strained across her breasts.
“Enjoy!” Yuna declared, handing Minjae a pair of chopsticks and a spoon.
Minjae nodded. She opened up the bowl of rice and the soup first.
Yuna watched as she ate. Minjae ate quickly, but not as though she had been starving. Her heart clenched, watching Minjae.
“Is it good?” Yuna asked.
Minjae nodded as she reached into the take away container and picked up some tteokbokki with her chopsticks. “I missed supper.”
“Me too,” Yuna admitted. She dug in as well. She had to admit, even if the tteokbokki was spicy, it was good. It felt so good and as she glanced across the table, watching Minjae eat and a smile form on her lips, all of the sudden, Yuna felt like a dumb college kid again.
*
In the darkness of Yuna’s bedroom, she almost wanted to turn over and face Minjae. She could hear her sleeping- it didn’t take her very long. Yuna, on the other hand, wasn’t able to sleep. Not yet, anyway. She laid on her back, staring up at the ceiling.
There were too many thoughts racing through her head and her body must have forgotten everything about Minjae had told her that evening, because Yuna wanted to scoop Minjae against her and breathe in her scent.
Yuna had a million questions she wasn’t sure if she wanted the answers to. What had happened to Minjae? How could five years pass and Yuna not reach out before? That familiar tug in her heart was so heavy, so natural, Yuna couldn’t believe she had waited so long to look for Minjae.
Glancing over at Minjae, who laid facing the other direction, in Minji’s old spot in her bed, she let out a quiet sigh. Minjae was so close, Yuna could touch her. Minjae was so close, she could smell her, hold her, and even kiss her, if she wanted to.
And Yuna wanted to.
She wanted to kiss Minjae the moment she saw her, when she had cried in her arms, when she had looked up at her in the taxi, when they had arrived in Yuna’s apartment, when Minjae had some tteokbokki sauce on her chin, when Minjae refused to share the bed, and right before they turned off the lights. Yuna wanted to kiss Minjae so badly. She wanted her in her arms but it wasn’t the time.
It was too soon.
Suddenly, Yuna’s phone began to vibrate. She sat up and picked it up- Minji was calling. Yuna accepted the call and left the bedroom.
“Yuna, so, how did it go?” Minji asked.
Yuna wandered into the kitchen. It wasn’t even midnight yet.
“Minjae is with me. She almost didn’t leave the condo.” Yuna replied in a whisper.
“How is she?”
Yuna paused, thinking of that red leather collar and the shiny gold medallion. It made her stomach twist. “I was right.”
Minji paused, too. “Oh, Yuna. I’m sorry.”
“She hasn’t told me all of the details.” Yuna continued. “But she’s sleeping now.”
“Good.” Minji sighed.
“And what about you?” Yuna asked. “How did it go with Oh Hyera?”
“It went well,” Minji began with a groan. “She got called away before she started ordering too many drinks. I ate a lot but I’m still tipsy!”
“Did she say anything?” Yuna asked.
“About Cho Minjae? Only that she had called her to send her home.” Minji replied.
Yuna didn’t reply. She leaned against the counter. “I’m going to go shopping with Minjae tomorrow. She needs clothes.”
Minji gasped quietly. “She. . . she doesn’t have any clothes?”
“I don’t want to get into it.” Yuna said, her heart clenching. She had seen inside Minjae’s bag- her toothbrush, hair brush, a handful of panties and that was it.
“Alright.” Minji sighed again. “I’ll let you go to bed. Text me if anything comes up.”
“You too, text me if something comes up.” Yuna said. “Goodnight.”
“Goodnight, Yuna.”
“Minji, wait.” Yuna began, her stomach sinking. “Thank you, again. You didn’t have to do this.”
Minji paused. “I told you, I’m doing this because I care about you. I’m happy to do it.”
“And I’m very grateful.” Yuna added. “So very grateful.”
“I know. Goodnight, Yuna.” Minji chuckled and she hung up.
Yuna sighed and walked back to the bedroom. She could hear Minjae groaning and breathing fast. Yuna slid into the bed, watching Minjae as she turned over, then laid on her back.
Her heart sank once more. Minjae still suffered from those nightmares from all of those years ago. Yuna laid next to Minjae and pulled her close. For a moment, Minjae moved away, then stopped turning. Yuna had her arm around Minjae’s waist. She felt smaller than before. It took a few more moments of silent hope before Minjae’s breathing returned to normal.
Yuna kept her arm around Minjae’s waist, her nose buried in Minjae’s hair.
It wasn’t long before sleep claimed her, too.
Notes:
#FREEMINJAE IS A GO!!!!!!
I'll post a chapter tomorrow morning and on Monday as well!! As long as the new keyboard set up holds up!!! Enjoy!!
Chapter 45: Chapter Twenty Five: Shopping
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
When Minjae opened her eyes, she realised that she wasn’t in the condo.
She wasn’t in the bedroom she once shared with Hyera Unnie. The walls weren’t white, the early morning daylight made soft by the usual opaque window curtains. The plush, soft blankets and pillows she was used to were gone.
Instead, Minjae awoke with Yuna’s arm around her waist, pulled against her hips so close that she could feel Yuna’s breath on the back of her neck. With her heart pounding in her ears and feeling aware of every inch of her body, Minjae took in her actual surroundings. She had a dark blue duvet over her legs, half stolen by Yuna. She was staring at the closet door, half open. Minjae could see Yuna’s collection of jackets and matching boots. The walls were off white, plainly decorated. The bedside table had a lamp and her red leather collar.
When Minjae shifted, Yuna pulled her closer. She felt her ass against her lower stomach and Yuna’s legs laying against hers, lining up perfectly. It was almost suffocating, but it was an intimacy Minjae had missed. She laid there, unsure of what to do. She was torn- she wanted to stay where she was and pretend it was five years ago. Yet a part of her couldn’t stand the fact that they had fallen into this position so easily, that Yuna pulled her in so closely without a second thought. She hated that she liked it, and that a large part of her wanted to push away and go back to Hyera Unnie.
Hyera Unnie . . . Minjae sighed. Would Hyera Unnie even notice her gone? With her new husband keeping her busy, why even bother with Minjae? That part was the worst. Ever since she got married, Hyera Unnie was distant, far away.
Minjae wiped her eyes, hoping that she could stop being so weak, so prone to tears. It was easier said than done.
“Minjae?” Yuna muttered.
Minjae let out a shaky breath. “M-morning.”
“Are you okay?” She asked. Yuna pulled her hand away slowly, but not without her palm grazing a bare strip of exposed skin at Minjae’s hip.
“Y-yeah, I was just thinking.” Minjae admitted in a small voice. A small shiver went up her spine.
When Yuna sat up, Minjae laid on her back.
“About what?” Yuna rubbed her eyes, then yawned.
“About . . . Hyera Unnie,” Minjae replied. She closed her eyes and pressed her palms against her eyelids, applying a tiny bit of pressure.
Yuna didn’t reply right away. Minjae laid there, taking a deep breath in and out. Her heart was aching and everything was a little too much.
“We don’t have to talk about it yet,” Yuna offered. “Or at all. Take your time, Minjae.”
Minjae nodded. She waited until she heard Yuna get out of the bed before staring up at the ceiling, waiting for her eyes to adjust.
“Are you hungry? I’ll make breakfast,” Yuna said a moment later.
Minjae nodded again. Yuna left the room and Minjae sat up. She grabbed the red leather collar and inspected it. The leather was worn and soft but the medallion was spotless.
Property of Oh Hyera
Five years ago, Hyera Unnie had given her that collar. It was a symbol of their bond, of their relationship. Minjae belonged to Hyera Unnie. Hyera Unnie took care of her- she paid for the roof over her head, for the food she ate, for the clothes she wore. Hyera Unnie paid for her to go on trips with her, paid for beauty supplies, their trips to the hair stylists, for her waxes, for everything. All Minjae had to do was obey. All she had to do was stay by Hyera Unnie’s side.
Minjae didn’t think it was so hard. She didn’t think it meant giving up so much.
Minjae put aside the collar and sighed. It was all too much.
*
Breakfast consisted of herbal tea for Minjae, black coffee for Yuna, and a large serving for each of them of congee. Minjae wasn’t that hungry, but found herself eating the entire bowl. After they had eaten and cleaned up, Yuna offered more clothes to Minjae to change into and a pair of shoes. Luckily, their shoe size was the same, so Minjae borrowed a pair of sneakers.
“I don’t have that many clothes that fit you, so I’ll buy you some,” Yuna explained as they took the train to the nearest shopping centre. Luckily, there was one not so far away.
Minjae blushed. “I have money, I just need to find my debit card.” she explained.
“You didn’t bring it with you?” Yuna asked.
“No, I couldn’t find it.” Minjae replied. She had hidden it in the bins with her laptop and clothes but Hyera had it all shipped to storage. If only she knew where the storage lockers were . . .
“We’ll get that later.” Yuna said. “First thing’s first, we’ll buy you some clothes of your own.”
“Kang Yuna, you don’t have to.” Minjae replied, avoiding her gaze. She knew that Yuna didn’t want her to call her that, but she wasn’t ready for any of it. She couldn’t just resume their life before Minjae broke her heart. She couldn’t do it yet.
Yuna sighed. “Minjae . . . Please, it’s just Yuna.”
Minjae didn’t reply.
The shopping mall wasn’t as big as the one Minjae had frequented the most. There were two boutiques, a pharmacy, a noodle shop, and a corner store and that was it.
“I don’t normally come here, but we should find something,” Yuna explained. “But Minji says there’s lots of good deals here.”
Minjae nodded. The first boutique was exclusively for women and there were displays of colourful summer dresses, sandals, bathing suits, and purses of every size. Minjae found herself drawn to a mint green and white summer dress. Yuna took it off of the rack and threw it over her arm.
“What-?” Minjae began, surprised.
“You like it, don’t you?” Yuna asked. “Or do you want a different size?”
“I don’t need a sundress,” Minjae replied, crossing her arms. “I need more practical clothes.”
Yuna nodded, but glanced down at the dress. “But this would look pretty on you.”
Minjae blushed and glanced away. She walked away, heading towards the underwear and pyjama section. She didn’t need to watch Yuna waste her money on stuff she didn’t need. She’d have to pay her back later.
“You know, you didn’t seem to have a problem when I paid for you when we were dating,” Yuna said when she found Minjae.
Minjae grabbed a bra off of the rack and checked the sizing. “Yeah, because we were dating and I paid for other things.”
“Then why don’t you let me buy you a dress?” Yuna asked.
Minjae pursed her lips. “Because, I don’t want to take advantage of you again.”
With that, Minjae grabbed another bra in a slightly different size and headed to the changing stalls to try it on. Her heart was racing- it was one thing that Yuna had gone through all of that trouble to find her, but buying her clothes? Holding her close as they slept? It was all too much.
Minjae emerged from the changing stalls ten minutes later with a new bra that fit perfectly. Yuna was there, waiting patiently.
“You know, Minjae, you weren’t taking advantage of me.” Yuna said once they headed back into the rows and rows of clothing. Minjae listened as she admired a pair of shorts. They were cheap, so she grabbed them. “You told me your feelings were genuine. Well, so are mine.”
Minjae gulped quietly. She grabbed a few camisoles that were in a bundle sale.
“And if we both loved each other, and we were both paying the bills evenly, and doing the chores, then who was taking advantage of who?” Yuna continued.
“You know exactly what I meant, Yuna,” Minjae spun around, clenching her jaw. “I wasn’t faithful to you. You know that.”
“But you were forced.” Yuna replied.
“Who said that?” Minjae asked, glancing around. There wasn’t anyone nearby, but Minjae was sure that someone would overhear them. “I chose to be with Hyera Unnie. I could have walked away.”
“But you didn’t,” Yuna added.
“No, I didn’t.”
Yuna took a deep breath. “Would Hyera let you walk away?”
Minjae stood there, her fists balled up under the clothes she had gathered.
She must have been silent for too long because Yuna only nodded. “If Hyera wouldn’t let you leave, then you were the one taken advantage of, Minjae, not me.”
Minjae kept her gaze down on the camisoles in her arms. She hated that Yuna was right. She hated the deep sinking feeling in her gut. She hated the clenching of her heart, making her chest ache.
“C’mon, Minjae, let’s keep looking.” Yuna led the way, extending her hand.
“I can walk on my own,” Minjae muttered.
“I know. But isn’t it better walking with someone else?” Yuna smiled and Minjae took her hand after a brief pause.
*
Once Yuna had paid for Minjae’s clothing haul, they headed to the other boutique and bought a few more shirts and a pair of shoes. When it came close to lunch time, Yuna suggested the noodles.
The cook served the two giant bowls of garlic gochugaru noodles alongside some side dishes, boasting about how he made hand pulled noodles fresh every day.
“These look great,” Yuna said as she broke apart her wooden chopsticks.
Minjae nodded. The garlic and chilli scent wafted from the noodles and she couldn’t wait to eat.
“I’ll pay you back for the clothes when I get my card,” Minjae said, doing the same.
Yuna shook her head. “No, don’t worry about it.”
Minjae put down the noodles she had picked up. “What? Are you crazy? Of course I’m going to pay you back. I saw how much that cost!”
“Think of it as a gift,” Yuna shrugged.
“I’m paying you back.” Minjae sat at once.
Yuna ate some of her noodles, slurping it up. “I don’t mind, Minjae.”
“I mind!” Minjae replied a little too loudly. A pair of older men who sat not too far away scoffed and shook their heads. Minjae bowed her own head and apologised. “Sorry, uncles.”
“Why can’t I do something nice for you?” Yuna asked. Minjae was blushing and she couldn’t help but think she looked so cute. “Think of it as a gift.”
“I . . . I don’t want to sit around anymore.” Minjae admitted at last. She kept her hands on her lap, staring downwards. “I want to take care of myself.”
Yuna lowered her chopsticks as well. “I . . . I can’t pretend to understand or know what happened between you and Oh Hyera, but me doing nice things for you isn’t the same as what Oh Hyera was doing.”
Minjae didn’t move or speak. Yuna watched her for a moment or two, trying to decipher her body language. A part of her wished she knew what had happened between her and Oh Hyera but the thought of it made her stomach twist and lose appetite.
“If you really want to, you can pay me back.” Yuna admitted.
Minjae finally glanced up, her cheeks pink. “I will, I promise.”
Yuna sighed and dug into her noodles. “Eat up, before the noodles get cold.”
As Yuna pushed the noodles into her mouth, she watched Minjae eat. She ate quickly, taking pauses to drink some water.
“Too spicy?” Yuna asked, smirking.
“No!” Minjae replied, her face even redder. “I didn’t expect it to be so hot.”
“The noodles are so red, Minjae. Of course it’s going to be spicy.” Yuna teased. The cook was heavy with the gochugaru, it was even a bit too spicy for Yuna.
Minjae kept slurping up the noodles, groaning as she did. Yuna almost laughed, but the spice was beginning to prickle her mouth so she drank some of the water, too.
“I think we should get some ice cream after,” Yuna suggested.
Minjae didn’t speak, she nodded as she gulped down the rest of her glass of water. Yuna stifled a laugh behind her hand and watching Minjae’s annoyed expression was worth it.
*
Near the train station was an ice cream shop. Yuna paid for two large fruity but creamy milkshakes- peaches for Minjae and melon for herself. The sun was hot and the humidity was building. Yuna stood next to Minjae, sipping her milkshake slowly.
“Ah!” Minjae rubbed the front of her head. “Ow! Drank too fast!”
Yuna chuckled. “Put your tongue on the roof of your mouth. It’ll help.”
Minjae kept rubbing her forehead.
“Is it helping?” Yuna asked.
“Yeah,” Minjae was blushing again.
“Drink slower, Minjae.” Yuna warned.
Minjae frowned. “I’m really hot, okay?”
Yuna nodded sympathetically as the train pulled up. She tried not to think too hard about what else it could mean, but she knew she was blushing. Yuna drank quickly from her milkshake and then was hit with her own ice cream headache.
“That’s what you get for scolding me,” Minjae teased when Yuna cradled her head and groaned as they climbed onto the train.
Yuna didn’t dignify that with a response. They chose their seats and savoured the weak but noticeable air conditioning. The ride back was quiet. Minjae stared out the window, watching the train pass in the tunnel, stopping at the different stations. Yuna couldn’t help but glance over at Minjae. Not too often. She’d catch herself in the reflection of the window, and she could swear that Minjae had noticed, her amber eyes flicking up to catch hers for a brief flash before focussing on the grey walls.
Then, Yuna realised she didn’t care. She wanted to stare at Minjae. She wanted to grab her hand and kiss her. She wanted to hold her close and tell her how much she still cared. Yet, she couldn’t. Not when Minjae still seemed so far away.
Notes:
Hi!! I'm not used to this keyboard yet so I'm taking a small break from the mystery fic to work on other projects that aren't writing related. I've been writing non stop since February, so I think it's time for a switch.
I love this chapter because I love domestic moments between Yuna and Minjae, even if Minjae is battling her mixed feelings and indecisive heart. Enjoy this chapter because emotions will start running high in the next few . . .
Enjoy!!!
Chapter 46: Chapter Twenty- Six: Holding Back
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Minjae took the clothes from Yuna the moment she put down the bags. She carried them into the bathroom where Yuna kept her washing and drying machines.
“What are you doing-?” Yuna asked, following her.
“I’m doing the laundry.” Minjae declared. She pulled off the tags and began tossing the different articles into the washing machine. Minjae couldn’t believe the amount of clothes Yuna had bought her, including the sundress. When Minjae took off the tags for the green and white sundress, her heart skipped a beat. She had to admit, she couldn’t wait to wear it.
“Right away?” Yuna asked, crossing her arms. “We just got back.”
Minjae shrugged. She glanced around the cramped bathroom and found the dirty laundry basket. She reached in and grabbed an armful of clothes and tossed it in.
“You’re doing mine, too?” Yuna exclaimed.
“Of course. I have to do something around here.” Minjae replied simply. She hated how Yuna was staring at her. She was staring at her on the train, too. She was too close. Minjae closed the door of the washer, then poured the detergent into the slot and then pressed the on button. The machine did not start. “What-?”
“It works like this,” Yuna said, sliding up behind Minjae so easily. Minjae froze against the washer as Yuna leaned against her back. Her lithe arm reached past Minjae and pressed a series of buttons- Minjae was too distracted by the waft of Yuna’s scent, that damn jasmine perfume- and the machine came to life.
However, Yuna did not back away. Minjae stood there, her heart pounding and her lower belly aching.
“So now you know,” Yuna replied, her mouth somewhere near Minjae’s ear.
“I didn’t catch that.” Minjae admitted in a small voice.
“Shall I show you again?” Yuna offered.
The washing machine was filling with water quickly. As Yuna extended her arm to show Minjae the buttons once more, the spin cycle began. The washing machine vibrated against Minjae’s hips and she let out a small gasp. Minjae gulped audibly, her entire body alert and stimulated. Yuna leaned against her more, her breasts against Minjae’s back and her hand at the small of Minjae’s waist.
“ . . . So the next time you do a load of laundry, you can wash the clothes properly.” Yuna concluded. Her voice was low in Minjae’s ear, her hand sliding upward, nice and slow.
Minjae closed her eyes, unable to move. She couldn’t decide between pushing Yuna away and letting Yuna touch her, letting her have her.
What would Hyera Unnie say?
She’d punish her if she knew.
Minjae gulped and then, all of the sudden, Yuna backed off.
“Are you okay?” Yuna asked.
Slowly, Minjae turned around and stepped away from the washing machine. Her heart hadn’t let up and neither did the desperate ache between her legs. It would be easy to fall into Yuna’s arms. It would be easy to open her legs and let her do what she wanted.
But Hyera Unnie would punish her.
And Minjae didn’t want that. She didn’t want to sleep with Kang Yuna again like that.
“I’m fine,” Minjae lied. “Excuse me.”
Minjae stalked past Yuna and headed outside, to the nearest door. She found herself in an enclosed backyard. There were a few discarded dog toys and even a dish. Minjae sat in the nearest chair and buried her face into her hands.
She wanted to sleep with Yuna again. She wanted her.
Minjae already knew that. She knew that four months ago, in Yuna’s WeiYoppu office. She knew that five years ago, when she walked away. She knew that the moment she stared into those icy blue eyes when Yuna first kissed her, in her humid bathroom.
But she stopped herself. She couldn’t. She just couldn’t. Minjae was shaking as the tears threatened to fall.
Hyera Unnie would punish her. She belonged to Hyera Unnie. She promised her heart and body to her.
“Minjae?”
Minjae glanced up, tears in her eyes, as Yuna approached her. “K-Kang Yuna . . . I’m sorry.”
Yuna knelt in front of Minjae, her hands taking Minjae’s so gently, like she was fragile, like she was precious. “What are you sorry for?”
Squeezing her eyes tightly, she shook her head. “You should hate me. You should be throwing me out into the streets. You shouldn’t be nice to me!” Minjae cried. “I was awful to you! I was the worst girlfriend. I wasn’t even supposed to love you, but I did! And I still did what I did!”
Minjae could feel Yuna staring up at her but she couldn’t stop.
“And if you keep being so nice to me, I’ll sleep with you! I’ll give myself to you and then Hyera Unnie will punish me! She’ll be upset!” Minjae pulled away one of her hands to wipe away her tears. “I can’t do this-! I can’t-!”
Minjae let out a sob and the tears wouldn’t stop.
“Minjae . . .” Yuna began. “I love you still. I never stopped.”
“Stop-!”
“And unless you hate me, I won’t stop loving you.” Yuna admitted, her voice soft. Truly soft. “Do you hate me?”
Minjae shook her head, wiping away more of her tears. She couldn’t hate Kang Yuna. She couldn’t hate that she was so much nicer to her than Minjae deserved. Kang Yuna hadn’t done anything wrong. Not in comparison to Minjae, at least.
“Do you love me still?” Yuna asked, her hands squeezing Minjae’s.
Minjae let out a sob. Her heart was aching now. She couldn’t stop herself from crying. She always loved Yuna. It was her own little secret that she wanted to guard from the world, but in the past weeks and months, it reignited.
“You don’t have to answer, Minjae.” Yuna said. “You don’t have to do anything. I’m here for you, Minjae. You can lean on me.”
Minjae leaned forward, then placed her head on Yuna’s shoulder. The tears wouldn’t stop. It was as if Minjae had released the floodgates, her reserves of tears. She couldn’t stop herself even if she tried.
And Yuna stayed in place, holding her hand, the entire time.
*
Minjae awoke from her nap nearly two hours later.
After crying so much, Yuna had led her to the bedroom, tucked her into bed, and Minjae had fallen asleep right away. She didn’t even have a single nightmare.
She couldn’t recall the last time she had slept so well.
But now that she was well rested, Minjae left the bedroom and headed out to the kitchen. Yuna was there, inspecting different cups and mugs. There was a cardboard box lined with bubble wrap and newspaper on the kitchen table.
“What are you doing?” Minjae asked, approaching her.
“Oh, Minji asked me to find her mugs. She forgot them when she moved out.” Yuna replied casually. She grabbed a white mug with pink flowers. “This is definitely not one of mine.”
“Yeah, I don’t think so, either,” Minjae replied, taking the mug from her.
“You can put it in the box.”
Minjae placed the mug next to the box. There was already a collection of colourful mugs with cute characters on them.
“You and Minji broke up because of me, didn’t you?” Minjae asked.
Yuna cleared her throat. “Yeah.”
Minjae swallowed hard. “Because of that day at the museum?”
“Pretty much.” Yuna replied. “She saw me kissing you and I had to tell her that I still loved you. She didn’t want to compete but she . . . Minji wants me to be happy.”
“I’m sorry.” Minjae muttered.
“You have nothing to be sorry about. It was bound to happen. I wasn’t a good partner to Minji.” Yuna replied, closing the cupboard door and leaning against the counter. “Minji would have broken up with me anyway. If not, I would have.”
“I still feel responsible.” Minjae added. She played with the hem of her borrowed shirt. She could feel Yuna watching her, making her feel as though she were more than naked.
“Maybe I can’t change how you feel,” Yuna said. “But neither can I. Minji and me- we were better off as friends.”
The silence was heavy but Minjae didn’t know what to say. She glanced up at Yuna, who was still across the kitchen. It felt odd. Minjae wished she could cross the distance and hold her hand, but she couldn’t. Not after crying on her shoulder- Minjae had noticed that Yuna had changed her shirt because of her.
“Do you want some tea?” Yuna offered.
Minjae nodded. She watched as Yuna turned around and prepared the kettle. Just as she was about to grab the mugs from the remaining collection in the cupboard, Minjae crossed the room and wrapped her arms around Yuna’s waist.
“Thank you, Yuna,” Minjae muttered to her back.
Yuna stood there, still as could be.
Minjae held onto her, breathing in her scent. Now that she was calm, that she had let it all out, Minjae finally felt at ease.
*
When Minjae hugged her from behind, Yuna didn’t want that moment to end. She stood still, watching Minjae’s hands rest at her stomach, grasping her shirt. Yuna, very slowly, turned around and pulled Minjae into another hug.
There was a fleeting moment, right before pulling away, that Yuna’s gaze dipped down to Minjae’s pink lips. She could tell Minjae had thought the same thing, as she had backed away quicker than Yuna had hoped for. When the kettle whistled, Yuna prepared the tea and then brought it to the couch.
A part of Yuna wished she had indulged in her own wants, but seeing Minjae’s content smile as they watched the television over cups of tea, was enough for her. There was a new calmness over her that reassured Yuna and she couldn’t help but smile, too.
There would be a time for kisses and more later.
*
The next few days passed quietly.
Yuna worked from home, setting up at the kitchen table with her laptop, work phone and the dozens of reports she had to go through. How she had managed to get permission from her supervisor was beyond her- it wasn’t normally allowed but somehow, Yuna got permission to work from home all week save for friday. Yuna expected as much, since it was the day of the monthly wrap up meeting that the entire department had to attend. The upside was the free, unlimited coffee and a paid lunch.
However, it meant that Minjae would be alone in Yuna’s apartment for an entire day.
Yuna knew Minjae would manage well on her own, but the idea of leaving her alone made her uneasy. As she worked at the kitchen table, Yuna always made a point of glancing over at Minjae, who would be watching television, or reading on the couch. Minjae had begun doing chores around the apartment, despite being told not to, and she even picked up groceries once Yuna handed over her debit card.
Despite all of this, the nightmares seem to return every night, too. Yuna always hesitated, but in the end, she would pull Minjae close and the tossing and turning would slowly stop and Minjae would be still. The only movement came from the rhythmic ups and downs of her chest as she slept.
It wasn’t just the nightmares that bothered Yuna. It was Oh Hyera.
I haven’t heard from her -KM
Neither have i -KY
Do you think she knows?? -KM
Probably. Where else would Minjae go? -KY
Doesn't she have family in seoul? She could go back to her mom’s. -KM
After what she told me, i doubt she’ll ever step foot in her parent’s house again -KY
So the only person minjae can rely on is you? -KM
I think so. -KY
Then she must know she’s with you. -KM
Exactly. I have no idea what’s gonna happen and I have to go in at work on friday
What if Hyera strikes while I’m gone? -KY
I have some work from home privileges. I could stay with Minjae -KM
You don’t have to do that, Minji. You’ve done enough. -KY
I told you!!! You’re my best friend!!! I’ll do anything for you!!! -KM
Would you eat raw octopus for me? -KY
EW NO -KM
Then don’t make such silly promises ahaha- KY
YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN
Ugh gross
Now im gonna think about that all day -KM
Sorry haha -KY
I’ll stay with Minjae but you gotta buy us dinner
As the price for grossing me out and ruining my day -KM
Deal. Fried chicken and beer? -KY
YESS -KM
“Working hard?” Minjae asked, approaching the table and taking a seat. Today she wore high waisted shorts and a fitted top. Yuna was never more glad that she took Minjae shopping.
Yuna removed her glasses and put down her phone. “I was texting Minji.”
“Oh?” Minjae cleared her throat.
Catching Minjae’s expression, Yuna gave her a pointed look. “It’s about friday. I have to go in for a day-long meeting.”
“And what does that have to do with Kim Minji?” Minjae asked.
“I think it might be best if you had someone with you while I’m gone,” Yuna admitted.
At once, Minjae pursed her lips. “Why? You don’t trust me in your home?”
“No, of course not.” Yuna replied calmly. She had a feeling Minjae wouldn’t like being treated like a wayward child. “But it’s not about you. It’s about Oh Hyera.”
Minjae glanced away, her eyes cast downwards.
“Neither Minji nor I have heard from her. We don’t know if she's coming or if she’s waiting for you or what. I don’t want her to find you when you’re alone.” Yuna explained. She held out her hand, carefully choosing her words. “I . . . I want to make sure you’re safe and that you’re . . .” Yuna paused as Minjae glanced at her hand.
“Are you afraid that I’ll leave?” Minjae asked, crossing her arms.
“Do you want to leave?” Yuna asked in turn. Her heart clenched in her chest. Yes, the past few days since bringing Minjae over had been tough at first, and the entire time, Yuna wondered if she was doing the right thing. If she wasn’t being too controlling, or hurting Minjae by accident. A part of her wondered if she was keeping Minjae from leaving. What if Minjae wanted to be with Oh Hyera? What if this was all a mistake?
Minjae didn’t respond. “I don’t know what I want.”
“Well, until you know what you want, maybe taking some time away from Oh Hyera is best.” Yuna offered. “But if you leave, please tell me.”
Minjae glanced over at Yuna, then her gaze dropped down to Yuna’s phone. The chat with Minji was still on the screen. Then, finally, Minjae took Yuna’s outstretched hand.
“I . . . I don’t know if Hyera Unnie will come to find me.” Minjae admitted in a small voice. “And I don’t know if I want her to.”
“You’re welcome to stay here, Minjae,” Yuna added.
Minjae pulled away her hand and left the table. Yuna watched, swallowing the lump in her throat. It killed her that she had no idea what was going through Minjae’s head. Was Minjae happy with her? Did she love her still? Or was she still in love with Oh Hyera? Would Minjae leave the moment Oh Hyera would come calling for her?
Yuna thought of the red leather collar on the bedside table. Hyera had Minjae in her grasp still and she wondered if there was even a way to break her free.
Notes:
Hey everyone!! My cold is finally getting better after two days of napping and tylenol. I can't believe we're in the final ten or so chapters of Midnight Ice!! Normally I'd be hauling ass on the mystery fic but I think I need to give it a break and come back to it with fresh eyes. With this series, I was always very sure about what direction I wanted to go, where the characters needed to go and where they needed to be etc plot points etc but this mystery fic is built a little differently. It's much much darker than the rest of the series (more explicit, too). Not onl that, but I made a promise to you readers that I'd treat certain characters with justice haha
Anyway, after Midnight Ice there is another fic of spicy one shots with the endgame couple to look forward to.
Enjoy the chapter and next update will be on Saturday!!
Chapter 47: Chapter Twenty- Seven: Mixed Feelings
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Yuna left for work earlier than usual. Minjae only woke up as early as she did because the absence of Yuna’s arm around her waist felt so foreign, Minjae couldn’t fall asleep again. She waited a while before leaving the bed herself, then joined Yuna in the kitchen.
As breakfast was being made, Kim Minji knocked loudly on the door and entered, accompanied by two medium sized tanned dogs. Minjae found herself surrounded by the two dogs, who eagerly sniffed at her and the larger of the two tried to jump at her.
“Woong! Down boy! Down!” Minji chastised, yanking on the leash.
“Siwoo! Woong!” Yuna bent down and greeted the two excitable dogs, receiving their eager, wet kisses before getting up again.
Minjae backed into the counter, watching them carefully. Minji led the dogs across the kitchen and to the back door, where she let them loose in the enclosed back yard.
“Good morning!” Minji greeted at last, hands on her hips. “The dogs were dying to visit!”
Yuna chuckled. “I have to admit, I miss them.”
“They miss you, too,” Minji replied. She glanced over at Minjae. “You haven’t met Woong and Siwoo before, have you, Cho Minjae?”
Minjae shook her head. “N-no, I haven’t.”
“They’re just happy to see me and meet a new person,” Yuna placed a hand on Minjae’s shoulder. She furrowed her brow. “Are you okay, Minjae?”
“Uh, well, I’ve had some bad experiences with dogs,” Minjae admitted. “It was all very sudden.”
Minji waved her hand. “Don’t worry about them! They’ll calm down soon enough.”
Minjae sincerely hoped so.
Once breakfast was finished, Yuna got dressed in a pair of slacks and a matching blazer- both dark blue. Her blouse was a red wine shade. She even wore heels. Minjae tried not to stare at her, so she glanced over at Minji, who was blushing at the sight of her ex-girlfriend all dressed up for work. Minjae focussed on the rest of her tea in her mug. Jealousy was such an ugly feeling and it was steeping inside of her.
Yuna left for the train, leaving Minjae and Minji alone. The last time the two of them had spoken was five years ago, and Minjae had used their conversation as proof to break up with Kang Yuna. Sitting across from her now felt all the more stranger.
“So, what should we do today?” Minji offered cheerfully. “I know that dogs would love to visit the nearby dog park! There’s a cafe I miss, too. We could grab a drink there later! How about some-?”
“-You don’t have to babysit me,” Minjae interrupted, holding her mug to her lips. “I’m not going to run away and I won’t let Hyera Unnie convince me to go anywhere.”
Minji’s eyes went wide, then she furrowed her brow. “Look, neither of us want me here, and I get it.” She began. “But I’m doing this for Yuna, okay? She’s worried about you.”
Lowering her mug, Minjae glanced away. “I just need some time to think. I don’t need all of this. It’s too much.”
“Too much?” Minji repeated, frowning now. “I’ve spent months with Yuna as she tried to find you. Do you think her effort was too much?”
Minjae swallowed hard.
“Yuna loves you, Minjae.” Minji said at last. “And the least we can do is play nice for a day.”
Minjae glanced over at Minji. “Fine.”
“And I’m sorry about Woong jumping on you. He’s very friendly.” Minji added, smiling. “Siwoo is the calmer of the two.”
Minjae sighed. She had to admit, Minji had matured a bit since their last conversation. She almost felt bad for her rudeness.
“Then I’ll walk Siwoo.” Minjae replied.
“I’d think you’d get along with her best.”
*
As much as Minjae had explored the neighbourhood on her own in the past few days through walks and grocery runs, Minjae was still surprised to see the dog park. After walking for about fifteen minutes through the winding side streets- and being half pulled by Siwoo- there was a small forested area at the end of a cul de sac road. There were signs by the gated entrance, announcing the park and all of the rules.
The paths wove through the trees, providing cover from the harsh July sun. Siwoo didn’t pull as hard as Woong did, but every once in a while, Woong would recall that Minjae was there, and would eagerly press his wet nose to her bare leg and make her yelp.
“You really don’t like dogs, do you?” Minji asked as they headed towards the open area.
Minjae cleared her throat. “I grew up in a neighbourhood with a lot of free roaming dogs.”
“Hmm,” Minji led the way to the free roaming area, past another gate and then let him free. Minjae followed suit, then they closed the gate carefully. “Were you chased?”
“Sometimes.” Minjae admitted. She hadn’t thought of her walks home from elementary school in ages. The memory of being chased by the large, scary dogs sent a small shiver through her.
“Well, I don't blame you. Some dogs are scary. Woong and Siwoo are just excitable.” Minji explained.
Minjae nodded, watching as the pair of dogs chased each other around the fenced area, then were joined in by a tiny toy breed who chased them both. Minjae couldn’t help but laugh.
“You know, I didn’t like you at first,” Minji began, still laughing as the toy breed barked after Woong, who was brave enough to face him.
“What?” Minjae glanced at her. “Well, I mean, I don’t blame you. I didn’t like you either.”
“But Yuna really loves you.”
Minjae lowered her gaze. She knew that already. She didn’t need to be told by Minji. Why else would Yuna go through all of this trouble?
“And if Yuna cares about you, then so do I.” Minji added. She turned to face Minjae and pointed a finger at her. “So that means I care if you run back to Oh Hyera. If you go back to her and break Yuna’s heart, you’ll regret it, Cho Minjae!”
Minjae frowned at Minji’s finger. “I didn’t ask Yuna to do anything. And I certainly haven’t decided where I’m going or who I’m going to spend my time with!”
“Neither of us are idiots!” Minji raised her voice. For someone so little, she made a lot of noise. “We know Oh Hyera is bad for you!”
“You don’t know anything about Hyera Unnie!” Minjae shouted back, her face hot now. “And you don’t understand our relationship! If I had a problem with it, I would have done something about it!”
Minji furrowed her brow and exhaled. “Yuna told me everything, Cho Minjae! Hyera treats you badly! Like a dog!”
Minjae’s eyes flew wide open. She wanted to slap her but held back. “Shut your mouth. Don’t you speak badly of Hyera Unnie! Isn’t she your friend? How could you accuse her of that?”
Minjae’s blood was pumping. Minji was staring up at her with her bright green eyes, narrowed and flashing. What did Minji know? What did Yuna even know?
They didn’t know anything.
“Hyera Unnie has taken very good care of me! She always has!” Minjae said at once. “And I’ll decide for myself if I want to leave or stay!”
Minjae shoved the leash into Minji’s arms and stormed off. She couldn’t bear to stay in the park. She could feel the heat of the stares of the other dog owners. She ignored them.
What did Yuna know? Minjae may have told her about who she slept with, but she knew nothing else. She didn’t know about how Hyera Unnie had treated her. How Hyera Unnie had saved her, how she pleasured her, how she spoiled her with gifts. There were no worries for money, for bills or rent to pay. No wondering if she was loved or if she was without affection.
All Minjae had to do was stay by Hyera Unnie’s side.
And Minjae couldn’t even do that.
*
By the time Minjae heard the front door of Yuna’s apartment open, she was already in Yuna’s bed, holding her red leather collar. She hadn’t noticed how worn it was, or how the medallion needed polishing before. She held the leather in her hands, recalling how she had earned it in the first place- through heartbreak.
How many times had Hyera Unnie asked her to do awful things? It began so small- seducing Kang Yuna was nothing. Almost harmless in comparison. Seducing her stepbrother? The act haunted Minjae even now, five years later but she did it to prove her loyalty to Hyera Unnie. Minjae even agreed to sleep with Yang Kyerin, despite not wanting to. Why? Because Hyera Unnie had asked her.
And then, the worst of all, Minjae broke Kang Yuna’s heart because Hyera Unnie willed it.
And now, Minjae was holding the reward for her loyalty. She had wanted Hyera Unnie’s approval, her praise, her rewards. The sweet affection that she doted on her, the mind blowing, body racking nights of pleasure she experienced over and over again were the results of her hard work, yet how many days and nights was she alone for? How many cruel words were hurled at her?
Minjae felt the hot tears roll down her cheek.
“Minjae?”
Minji opened the bedroom door slowly, poking her head into the room. Minjae glanced up at her, wiping her eyes.
“Kim Minji, I don’t know what to do.” She whined, unable to stop herself.
“Cho Minjae,” Minji crossed the room and sat with her. Minji took the collar from Minjae and read the medallion. “Oh, Minjae.”
“I don’t know how it all came to this,” Minjae admitted quietly.
“Things happen quickly,” Minji replied, turning the collar over in her hands. “And . . . And you love so deeply, don’t you?”
Minjae nodded, covering her eyes. The heat of embarrassment covered her. She felt too much. She was too sensitive. Hyera Unnie showed her so much kindness that it prevailed over any cruelty, blinding her.
“Yuna and I realised that Hyera had been manipulating us.” Minji continued. “She didn’t want Yuna and I together. Why? We don’t know. Why did she want you to be with Yuna? We still don’t know. Yet, Hyera strung us all along.”
Minjae let out a shudder. “She. . . She was obsessed with Kang Yuna. I don’t even know why. . . But she told me that she didn’t care anymore. She wanted me instead.” Minjae wiped her eyes.
Minji sat there, holding the collar tightly in her small hands. “She did all of this, didn’t she, to keep you with her?”
Minjae knew Minji was right, but she didn’t reply. She wiped the rest of her tears. When enough time had passed, Minji handed back the collar.
“Cho Minjae, I won’t pretend to know everything. I know Hyera isn’t who she wants us to think she is, and I know that maybe you wanted this, but your relationship with Hyera shouldn’t make you cry. Not like this. It shouldn’t make you unhappy.” Minji began, her voice steady and even. “I broke up with Yuna because her choices were causing me harm and staying with her would only hurt me more. I learned that sometimes, leaving a bad situation is the best way to deal with it.”
Holding the collar, Minjae re-read the medallion. She was unhappy, alone in the condo. She was unhappy, with Hyera Unnie marrying a man. She was unhappy with the punishments, the cruel words.
“Thank you, Kim Minji,” Minjae said at last.
“I told you, I care about you.” Minji replied.
“Because of Kang Yuna.” Minjae corrected, with a small smile.
Minji wagged her finger. “You know, I think we could have been friends if none of this nonsense hadn’t happened.”
Minjae almost scoffed but nodded instead. “Maybe.”
“Then you should call me Unnie!” Minji replied. “Since I’m older and we’re friends.”
This time, Minjae scoffed. “Fine, Minji Unnie. I’ll call you that.”
*
The rest of the day passed without incident. Minji brought Minjae to the cafe she had mentioned wanting to visit, where they ate lunch and took their time. Minji told Minjae about her family, how they took her in and how happy they were to have dogs in the house and secondly, their daughter, too.
Minjae wasn’t in much of a mood to chat, so she listened. Her mind wondered more than she liked to admit but she tried her best to reply and be present.
They walked the dogs around the neighbourhood, then picked up some ingredients for cake. It was easier to focus in the kitchen, Minjae found. She prepared the fruits as Minji took care of the cake batter. The dogs whined in the backyard as they cooked despite the fact that Minji fed them their kibble.
When Yuna returned from her meeting, she brought home cans of beer and a large bag from a fried chicken restaurant that Minjae didn’t recognize. They ate supper altogether, laughing as Yuna recounted the horribly boring meetings. Minji didn’t mention the brief argument between her and Minjae, so Minjae didn’t either. Nothing but a short glance betrayed their little lie.
Once the food was gone and the dishes were washed, they sat in the living room to watch the news episode of Minji’s favourite drama with each a serving of the cake. Minjae hadn’t kept up with the episodes and was easily lost. However, she was so tired, she rested her head against Yuna’s shoulder and drifted off. She was sure she felt Yuna’s hand on her thigh, but she was too tired to care.
Notes:
Hello everyone!! Early update!!! I received some wonderful news today and I had to share the joy in the form of a chapter haha
Minjae and Minji have come a long way in their friendship (?) so when I wrote this chapter, it felt like it was right, par for the course, you know? They can both be hot headed but their kind hearts and love for Yuna bring them together.
I'll post another chapter tomorrow (guess who's gonna show up??) , hopefully at the usual time. I have a long day at work (double shift!!) so we'll see.
Check out my tumblr for another fun poll!!
Enjoy!!!
Chapter 48: chapter Twenty Eight: A New Promise
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
It was once more the weekend and it had marked a little more than one week since Minjae came home with Yuna. To celebrate, Yuna slept in, savouring the fact that Minjae was sleeping peacefully more often or not once Yuna would hold her close. When they awoke sometime around noon, Yuna offered to pick up breakfast at a nearby coffee shop. Minjae tried to argue, but in the end, relented. They both got dressed and walked together to the coffee shop.
Yuna almost took Minjae’s hand as they laughed. She almost took her hand when they crossed the street. She almost took her hand on the way home, despite the fact that their hands were already busy holding a bag of pastries and drinks.
Yuna almost took Minjae’s hand when a black car pulled up in front of Yuna’s apartment and Oh Hyera stepped out.
“Kang Yuna! Minjae!” Hyera called out as she spotted them.
Yuna glanced at Minjae, who was frozen beside her. Her wide, amber eyes fixed on Hyera and her pink lips parted, jaw hanging wide.
They crossed the street and approached Hyera. Yuna kept her expression as neutral as possible. Anger was bubbling under her skin just watching Hyera as she smiled so casually, her gaze lingering on Minjae.
A large diamond glittered on her left hand.
“I had a feeling I’d find you here, my lovely Minjae,” Hyera said at once.
Minjae averted her gaze at once, her face flushed.
“What are you doing here?” Yuna asked at once. She wanted to step between them, to protect Minjae from her Hyera. She wanted to tell Minjae to get in the apartment, to stay away.
Hyera flicked her gaze towards Yuna at last. “You see, my lovely wife went missing last week. I had a feeling she would be here, with an old lover.” Hyera replied. “And I figured I would pay her a visit.”
“How do you even have my address?” Yuna asked, swallowing hard. Minjae kept her gaze locked on her feet. “I never gave it to you.”
“No, but Kim Minji did.” Hyera said. She crossed her arms, flashing that ring again. “When you two sent us that lovely wedding gift, it wasn’t hard to figure out the rest.”
“Minjae doesn’t want to talk to you. And I don’t want you near her.” Yuna said at once. “Please leave.”
Hyera chuckled. “How about we ask Minjae what she wants? Hmm, my lovely Minjae?”
Yuna glanced over at Minjae. Her hand holding the coffee cup trembled slightly.
“Minjae?” Yuna asked softly.
“I . . . I’ll speak with you, Unnie.” Minjae replied quietly.
Yuna caught Hyera’s smirk.
“Excellent. Shall we take a ride around the neighbourhood?” Hyera offered, gesturing to the car.
“No, you can talk inside,” Yuna replied before Minjae could. “And you have ten minutes.”
Hyera scoffed. “My, my, Kang Yuna. You’re awfully protective of what isn’t yours.”
Yuna narrowed her eyes. “Minjae doesn’t belong to anyone.” She spat out as she hooked her arm with Minjae’s and led the way to her apartment.
The morning mood was thoroughly ruined. Yuna sat at the kitchen table as Minjae led the way to the back yard. Yuna couldn’t see them and she hated it. She knew it was inevitable- Hyera would go looking for Minjae, it was just a question of when, not if. Yuna just wished it was any other morning.
Yuna pulled out her phone and began texting Minji.
Hyera’s here -KY
Oh no
What’s happening? -KM
She’s talking to minjae in the backyard. I can’t hear them -KY
Go and listen!! -KM
I shouldn’t -KY
Why not?? You know Hyera’s manipulating her! Find out what she’s saying!!
Hyera isn’t going to play fair and you shouldn’t either!! -KM
Yuna gulped. Slowly and as quietly as possible, Yuna crossed the kitchen. She spotted Hyera standing in front of Minjae, holding her hand and cupping her cheek with the other. Minjae was staring up at her, like she hung the moon and Yuna’s heart ached so terribly.
Did Minjae really love Hyera? What was Hyera saying to her?
Yuna headed to the bathroom. There was a tiny window above the toilet. It opened, but Yuna couldn’t remember the last time it did. Very slowly, she slid it open, then sat on the closed lid of the toilet.
“-wouldn’t it be lovely to live in Jeju?” It was Hyera speaking, her voice soft and careful in a way Yuna hadn’t heard before. “You’ll have everything you need. You could write as much as you want.”
“But-?” Minjae began, her voice laden with more emotion.
“All I’m asking of you, my lovely Minjae, is to stay away from Kang Yuna.” Hyera replied. “I told you, this is all a distraction. Kang Yuna will betray you if you do not protect yourself.”
Yuna covered her mouth.
“She wouldn’t,” Minjae replied. “She . . . She still loves me.”
Yuna couldn’t hear the rest. She turned around, gazing outside. Minjae’s head was against Hyera’s shoulder.
“You have nothing here, Minjae. Seoul is not for you.” Hyera continued. “I think the quiet life in Jeju will suit you better.”
“But Unnie-!”
“But Minjae, I’m just trying to protect you.” Hyera’s voice was a little firmer. “If you stay with Kang Yuna, what will happen?”
Minjae didn’t reply. Or if she did, Yuna couldn’t hear her. She sat back down on the lid.
“Yuna and Minji are lovers, through and through.” Hyera continued. “And you are the distraction. But with me? You’ll always have me.”
Yuna clenched her fist.
“You can take off your collar, you can dress yourself up and play house with Kang Yuna all you want, but in the end,” Hyera added. “You’re mine, Minjae.”
Yuna sat there, her stomach filling with dread. Was this how Hyera manipulated her? Was this how she spoke to her? Yuna couldn’t believe it. She sat there, on the toilet, trying to think but thoughts were not forming clearly.
“I’ll give you some time to think about it, Minjae.” Hyera said after a pause. “And this will be your little reminder, hmm?”
Yuna frowned. A reminder? What could it be?
It wasn’t long before Yuna heard footsteps in the kitchen, so she hastily shut the window and flushed the toilet, making a show of having used it before entering the kitchen herself.
“I’ll be back in a few days or so,” Hyera said with an easy smile. “To pick up my wife.”
“Who do you think you’re fooling?” Yuna said, approaching her. “I know you didn’t marry Minjae in Jeju Island that weekend.”
Hyera’s smile widened. “It doesn’t matter what you think, Kang Yuna. Minjae and I are married. We are bound together. You wouldn’t understand.”
Yuna opened her mouth to reply, but Hyera made her way to the door, slipped on her heels and then left. Yuna turned around and saw that Minjae had entered the kitchen herself, cradling her left hand.
“Are you okay, Minjae?” Yuna asked, hurrying over to her.
She glanced from Minjae’s tear- filled eyes to her hand.
On her ring finger was a silver band with a diamond, much like Hyera’s.
Yuna froze, unsure of what to say or do.
“I . . . I . . .” Minjae began before bursting into tears. Yuna scooped her up in a hug, holding her as tightly as possible.
Yuna wished she could do more. She wished she knew what to say or do to take away all of Minjae’s pain.
But what could she do?
*
Minjae napped after a short breakfast. Yuna sat outside, smoking a cigarette when her phone vibrated in her pocket. She slid it out and answered the call.
“So?” Minji asked, sounding a little annoyed. “What happened? You didn’t answer my texts!”
“Sorry,” Yuna sighed heavily as she expelled the smoke. “I eavesdropped, afterall.”
“You did? I’m surprised!”
“Are you?” Yuna pursed her lips. She tapped off the half smoked ashes before taking another drag.
“So what did Hyera say?”
Yuna stared out into the backyard. It was so empty without the dogs.
“I think Hyera wants to move Minjae to Jeju Island,” Yuna replied after a pause. “And then she gave Minjae a ring.”
“Jeju island? And a ring?” Minji gasped. “Seriously?”
“Hyera is making Minjae think that you and I are going to get back together.” Yuna continued.
“Did Minjae go with her?” Minji asked.
Yuna breathed out the smoke. “No. Hyera is coming back next week.”
It surprised her that Hyera was giving Minjae a whole week to decide. What advantage would that bring Hyera? Why not take Minjae home with her right away? Yuna wished she understood better how Hyera thought, but it was beyond her.
“So, what’s the plan?”
Yuna paused again. She took another drag. Even if Minjae loved Hyera, Yuna wouldn’t let Minjae go so easily. She would have to fight for her.
“We have to convince Minjae to stay in Seoul.”
*
It was like a dream.
Hyera Unnie, in a cream coloured dress, waiting for her outside of Yuna’s apartment. Her soft smile in the July heat.
It was dreamlike- Hyera, Yuna’s backyard. Hyera, holding her hand and cupping her face. The cicadas were almost as loud as Minjae’s heart racing in her chest. Her familiar touch made Minjae melt against her, made Minjae weak in the knees and her chest tight.
“I’m sorry, if my time away from you made you lonely, Minjae,” Hyera began once they were in the backyard. “I have other responsibilities. I have to maintain them a little longer.”
“Unnie . . .'' Minjae began, her eyes locked on Hyera’s.
“Just for a year. I need to be his wife for one year, then we can go back to how things were.” Hyera continued. “Wouldn’t you like that?”
Minjae swallowed hard and nodded.
“We could move to Jeju island. First, you’ll set up our cottage and I’ll visit you every month.” Hyera explained, her voice so soft and gentle. Minjae almost forgot where she was. Hyera was holding her so gently, so carefully. “-wouldn’t it be lovely to live in Jeju? You’ll have everything you need. You could write as much as you want.”
“But-?” Minjae tried to speak, but what was there to say? But how could she leave? Why leave behind Seoul-?
“All I’m asking of you, my lovely Minjae, is to stay away from Kang Yuna.” Hyera continued, her thumb running against her cheek so lightly. “I told you, this is all a distraction. Kang Yuna will betray you if you do not protect yourself.”
“She wouldn’t,” Minjae replied. “She . . . She still loves me.”
“Does she, though?” Hyera asked. “Or are you a distraction from Kim Minji? They fought because of you. You’re a burden to them.”
Minjae rested her head against Hyera’s shoulder, tears filling her eyes at once.
They broke up because of her, didn’t they?
And now, Yuna worked from home to watch over her, like a petulant child. Even Kim Minji watched over her, like a reluctant babysitter.
“You have nothing here, Minjae. Seoul is not for you.” Hyera said. “I think the quiet life in Jeju will suit you better.”
“But Unnie-!”
“But Minjae, I’m just trying to protect you.” Hyera’s voice was a little firmer. “If you stay with Kang Yuna, what will happen?”
Minjae stood there, trying not to sob. What would happen? Would they be happy for a few months, before Yuna would get bored? Or would Minji want Yuna back? Or would Minjae be unhappy, wanting Hyera Unnie back?
There were no guarantees.
“Yuna and Minji are lovers, through and through and you are the distraction. But with me? You’ll always have me.You can take off your collar, you can dress yourself up and play house with Kang Yuna all you want, but in the end,” Hyera Unnie said, her voice steady and true. “You’re mine, Minjae.”
Minjae closed her eyes tightly and tears began to spill. There were no guarantees but there was Hyera Unnie.
And she belonged to Hyera Unnie, didn’t she? Even if she fought it, even if she ran away . . .
“I’ll give you some time to think about it, Minjae.” Hyera said after a pause. “And this will be your little reminder, hmm?”
Hyera Unnie pushed Minjae away from her shoulder slowly, but gently. She opened her purse and pulled out a red velvet box.
“Unnie, what is that-?” Minjae asked, rubbing away the tears.
Hyera opened the box and revealed the diamond ring.
“I realised that it wasn’t fair to call us married if you didn’t have a ring, too.” Hyera explained. She pulled the ring out of the box and took Minjae’s left hand. “So now we match.”
“But-!” Minjae tried to protest but Hyera slid the ring onto her ring finger. It fit perfectly. The square cut diamond sparkled in the midday sun, refracting a rainbow.
“You’re mine, Minjae. And the whole world will know, won’t they?” Hyera Unnie kissed Minjae’s forehead. “I’ll be back next week.”
Minjae stood in the back yard- the heat beating down on her, but she barely noticed. She stared at her hand, at the glittering diamond.
Her heart clenched tight in her chest.
A cottage in Jeju island, Hyera moving in a year later, the freedom to move about, to write, to do as she pleased, away from all of her troubles. . .
But, at what price?
Minjae glanced at the backdoor. Hyera Unnie was speaking with Yuna in the kitchen. Minjae hurried over to them, but when reached for the door, Hyera was on her way out.
Yuna hurried over her so quickly, holding her in her arms. It was like a dream.
A terrible, horrible dream.
*
Minjae had found Yuna’s travel books the next day. The books were mostly photographs of various places- there was a book on Okinawa, Japan, of the Korean countryside, of Australia, and of course, Jeju Island and other vacation places in Korea. Minjae poured over photos when Yuna was busy, when she wasn’t looking.
She hadn’t told her a thing.
Not because she didn’t want to tell her. Not because she couldn’t decide, but because she couldn’t stand to see the hurt in her eyes.
And that was why. That was why Minjae couldn’t commit to either.
Jeju island was a dream in itself. Lush greenery, clear blue waters and the sprawling, nature adjacent cities. Minjae found herself wondering what it was like, but not for long. She would often close the book, her heart longing for a clear answer.
Yes, Jeju island was a dream. So was living with Hyera Unnie for those five years. Once university was over and Minjae had nowhere else to be, it was a nightmare. Minjae tried not to think of the loneliness she had felt, the long hours without any motivation. No work to distract her, nowhere else to be but in the condo. Would Jeju island be much of the same?
Minjae thought of the good times, with Hyera Unnie. The nights out, the wonderful sex, the good food, the shopping, the way Hyera Unnie’s eyes locked onto hers, the way she held her hand. That satisfying contentment of being wanted, filing up inside of her, making her warm and giddy.
She found herself hugging the travel guide to her chest. Maybe things would be different. Maybe things could be different. It was hard now, but it didn’t have to stay that way. The loneliness would pass, would it not?
Tears stung Minjae’s eyes.
She needed to be strong for her Unnie. She needed to be patient.
Notes:
Oops Hyera's back and she's gonna fight for what belongs to her!!
Writing Hyera's little 'comeback' scene was hard. I wanted to make sure I did it right, so that's part of the reason why Hyera leaves and then comes back. The four main players will be reunited soon enough!!
The next chapter is short, but then things will move quickly. I'll post the next one on monday, but the big chapter 30 will be on saturday (chap 30 made me cry as I wrote it!!!)
again, i have a tumblr poll up for another day or so, please check it out.
Enjoy!!! See you monday!!
Chapter 49: Chapter Twenty- Nine: Playing Detective
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Yuna didn’t think she’d have to play detective again so soon, but it was slightly easier than before. Or at least, it involved less bribes.
When Yuna was sure Minjae was asleep, or busy, she tracked down who she could from Minjae’s life five years before. It was easier now that Minjae was nearby- she could ask innocuous questions.
“Where’d you go to high school again?” Yuna asked, not so subtly.
Minjae glanced up from the book she was reading, furrowing her brow. “Why do you want to know?”
“I was thinking about it.” Yuna shrugged. “Maybe we went to neighbouring high schools.”
“Why would you think that?” Minjae asked.
Yuna gave another shrug and Minjae told her the name of her high school. From there, it was easy to figure out her graduating year and find her classmates- many of them had social media. Many of them still lived in the same neighbourhoods or their parents did.
If only it was this easy months ago, when Yuna was initially looking for Minjae.
The hardest part was looking for Minjae’s mother. One of Minjae’s classmates, Shin Woohui, her mother, was still in touch with Minjae’s mother. Yuna was given Shin Woohui’s mother’s number. The next time that Minjae went on a walk on her own, Yuna sat in the backyard, enduring the humidity of July, to make her phone calls.
Luckily, Mrs Shin was very accommodating and gave Yuna Mrs Cho’s phone number. She was very happy to be a part of the reunion of Minjae and her mother, and wished Yuna all of the luck.
Now, it was time for the hard part.
Armed with Mrs Cho’s phone number, Yuna took the time to go to the office (Minji very helpfully agreed to visit Minjae while she did) and made the call there, in the privacy of her neglected office. She couldn’t run the risk of Minjae finding out. At least, not yet.
Yuna dialled the number and held her breath as the phone rang.
“Hello?”
Yuna’s chest tightened.
“Hello, my name is Kang Yuna and I am a close friend of Cho Minjae. Am I speaking with her mother?” Yuna asked politely.
There was a pause.
“You’re friends with Minjae?” The woman replied.
Her voice was sad, Yuna remarked. There was a touch of hope, but it was barely there.
“Yes. She’s my very close friend. I . . . I was wondering if I could speak with Mrs Cho, her mother?” Yuna replied.
“I am her mother,” the woman replied. “Have you heard from my daughter?”
Yuna swallowed hard. “Yes, I have.”
Yuna heard a stifled sob and her heart sank. Minjae had said she hadn’t spoken with her mother in months.
“Could you tell her that I’m sorry?” Mrs Cho said once she had cleared her throat. “Please tell her that, for me. I’d be forever grateful.”
“Mrs Cho, I would love to.” Yuna replied. “But would you like the chance to say it yourself?”
There was a pause.
“Is she with you now?” Mrs Cho asked.
“No, not right now.” Yuna said. She couldn’t help but wonder what had happened between the two of them. “But I am planning a get together for Minjae. I want to invite you to my home and to speak to Minjae yourself.”
“I’m sure she wants nothing to do with me.” Mrs Cho replied, scoffing. “I was an awful mother to her.”
“I . . . Minjae didn’t tell me what happened. She’s told me a few things that’s happened over the years, but not everything.” Yuna explained. “And there’s a chance she’ll leave Seoul to be with someone who’ll hide her from everyone who loves her here. This is my chance to convince her to stay.”
“If I didn’t know any better,” Mrs Cho said softly. “I’d say that’s romantic of you, Miss Kang.”
Yuna swallowed hard. “I care very much for Minjae.”
“I can’t promise she’ll want me there, but thank you for the invitation.” Mrs Cho replied. “I’ve been wanting to apologise for months now.”
Once Yuna gave Mrs Cho the information about the get together, they said their goodbyes and hung up. There was a ray of hope, shining down on her. Maybe this would be enough to convince Minjae to stay. Maybe this would be enough for Minjae to see that she was loved, and needed, in Seoul.
Notes:
Hey everyone!! Sorry for the short chapter!! The next couple are longer, more exciting and bring us closer to the end of Midnight Ice. The next chapter was the chapter that made me cry . . . So perhaps prepare your tissues for the next one?
Also, if you haven't read the side stories (I have no idea why you wouldn't), Minjae's side story events are being referenced in this chapter and the next, so brush up!!
Enjoy and see you guys on saturday!
Chapter 50: Chapter Thirty: Reuinion
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
A whole week had passed since Hyera Unnie’s visit. Minjae found herself staring at the diamond ring on her finger. She never took it off. She was always turning the band, to see the diamond refract the light, staring at its multitudes of facets, how the light bounced off of it, how pretty it looked on her hand.
At how much it belonged there.
Perhaps it was the days of daydreaming while going on her walks, how distant and busy Yuna was as she worked on her laptop, and how much Minjae looked forward to living on an island, surrounded by lush greenery and clear blue waters.
After breakfast, Yuna did the dishes before Minjae could.
“Ah, Minjae, could you grab some thinly sliced meat for supper?” Yuna asked. “We haven’t had bulgogi in ages.”
Minjae nodded, but found it strange. Wasn’t today the day Hyera Unnie would come for her? Was Yuna trying to protect her again? It wouldn’t matter. Minjae turned the band on her finger. Minjae didn’t need protecting. She had made her choice.
With the money and a reusable grocery bag in hand, Minjae headed out to the local grocery store. Since moving in with Yuna, Minjae helped with the groceries often. It was her looking out for sales, trying to find the best deal on meats and vegetables. It was a habit she had from her childhood, she supposed.
Minjae also had another habit; lingering in grocery stores. Yuna had given her enough to buy more than just meat and had said before she could pick up other things too if she wanted to. Minjae picked up some other items- some cucumbers, some cabbage. A drink for the walk back.
Minjae had to admit, she could get used to a life like that. Picking up groceries for supper, returning home to the girl she loved. . .
She stopped herself.
Yes, she still loved Yuna. Every night, she held her. Every day, she smiled at her. Every day, Yuna kept her distance, but she was close. It was a comfort to see her not too far away.
And there was a small joy in knowing Yuna would be at the kitchen table, working on her laptop. The familiar sounds of the keys tapping, the video calls where she spoke in a low, hush voice as to not disturb her, despite the fact that Minjae wasn’t doing anything of importance.
How Yuna reminded her to take walks, to shower, to eat her meals.
How she held her every. Single. Night.
And every. Single. Night the nightmares would be cut short, less scary, less terrifying, less effective.
Minjae stood there, in the street, her heart pounding.
Leaving Yuna would be harder than she thought.
No, Minjae tried to shake that feeling away, that warmth in her heart. That incessant fluttering she had been trying to avoid, to ignore. She needed to keep it at bay. Hyera Unnie was coming today. She was coming for her and they would steal away to Jeju island.
Why was it so hard? Minjae walked slowly. The heat made her sluggish anyway. It was hard because Minjae was too sensitive. Hyera Unnie would tease her about it, if she knew. She’d tease her about her easy heart.
Minjae hated that her heart was so indecisive, so attached so easily to two women that she loved. But today was the day. Today was the day that she’d make her choice.
*
As Minjae neared the driveway of Yuna’s apartment, she spotted a taxi. Minjae watched, confused. Two women emerged from the taxi and at once, Minjae recognized them.
Shin Woohui and her mother.
Minjae stopped walking. What were they doing here? At Yuna’s? What business did they have? Minjae’s mind was a flurry of unanswerable questions. She found herself picking up speed, running, almost, to the driveway and turned in, watching as they knocked on Yuna’s door.
She stopped to catch her breath, hating that she was doused in sweat already. Minjae walked the rest of the way, her heart pounding in her chest, aching to be free.
She opened the front door and saw that it wasn’t just Shin Woohui and her mother who had arrived.
There was Nam Suah, drinking a soda as she chatted with Im Yisoo. Kang Yuna was there, greeting her mother warmly. Minjae stood in the doorway, her heart tight in her throat. She heard dogs barking and Kim Minji pouring out dog food.
Kang Yuna glanced over at her, her icy blue eyes locked on hers and at once Minjae covered her mouth and tears fell.
*
It happened all so quickly.
The moment Minjae had been noticed, her friends swooped in and held her. Minjae hadn’t seen any of them in ages- Yisoo was always the comforting type, stroking Minjae’s hair. Woohui and Suah cooed over her until someone else approached her at once.
Minjae glanced up and she saw her mother, for the first time in months. She looked older, the lines of her face a little more obvious than the last time she saw her. Her hair was a little longer, and her eyes a little softer.
“Mother?” Minjae said, rubbing her eyes dry. “What are you doing here-?”
“Miss Kang Yuna invited us all here,” her mother replied, nodding her head towards her.
Minjae finally glanced over at Yuna, who stood next to Minji. “W-why?”
“Spend time with your friends and family. We can talk after.” Yuna replied simply.
Minjae noticed that Minji and Yuna spent their time in the kitchen, playing host as Minjae sat with her friends and her mother in the living room.
There was so much Minjae had missed. She couldn’t believe it- Nam Suah was engaged to the boy she had met at her university. Shin Woohui was completing a master’s degree while working as a freelancer in programming. Im Yisoo was in between travel trips- she had just been to Canada to enjoy a milder spring and was planning on visiting Europe for the summer.
Minjae couldn’t believe it. She wanted to know everything but there was so much. She wanted to know about the awards, the classmates, the crushes, the heartbreaks, the losses and the wins. There wasn’t enough time in one day. Minjae couldn’t stop crying, her heart had been yearning for something like this for so long and she didn’t even know.
Each one of her friends held her, leaned on her, asking her to stay in Seoul. Asking her not to leave their side again. Please, don’t disappear. Please stay in Seoul. Let’s meet up and talk like we used to. Let’s go to bars and sing karaoke. Let’s sleepover and talk all night, like we used to.
Minjae couldn’t make the promise. She was crying too much, smiling too much. Her heart was so full.
They ate lunch soon after- Yuna and Minji had ordered a huge buffet’s worth of food. As they ate, Minjae told them all about her now paused writing career. It made her sad, so very sad, that she hadn’t been able to write very much at all, let alone what she wanted, in such a long time. She found herself glancing over at Yuna, who smiled at her kindly before re-engaging in conversation with Minji.
Once the food was nearly completely eaten and her friends had left, the only guest that was left was her mother. Minjae sat on the couch, her eyes raw from the tears and her mouth aching from the smiles.
“I can’t believe you’re here,” Minjae said at last.
“I can’t believe it, either,” mother replied. “And I acted so horribly the last time we met, Minjae. I can’t apologise enough.”
The whole apartment was silent, save for the barking of dogs. Yuna and Minji were in the backyard, playing with them.
Minjae glanced over at her mother, not wanting to hope for anything more.
“Mother, do you . . . do you believe me now?” Minjae asked, her voice low and soft. She was afraid of the rejection, of the denial.
“He was dishonourably discharged a month after we spoke,” her mother began, staring across at the television. Minjae glanced as well. The reflection of mother and daughter in black. “He made excuses the whole time. Your stepfather was very angry. Very disappointed. He . . . He lost his way. He got in all sorts of trouble.”
Minjae’s hands clenched into fists on her bare thighs. He was revealing his true character to everyone now. Not just to Minjae.
She wasn’t sure if she was relieved or not.
“The police brought him home one day. He had been drinking and got into trouble. He admitted to so much, Minjae. He told us so much.” Her mother stopped speaking, covering her mouth at once.
“Mother . . .” Minjae reached out, taking her mother’s other hand.
“I’m sorry. I should have believed you. I should have listened.” Her mother let out a stifled sob. “I. . . I didn’t want to see the worse of him. I didn’t want to know about it. I . . . I had a feeling but I ignored it. I didn’t want to believe it.”
“Mother, so, you believe me?” Minjae asked, tears stinging her eyes once more. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to smile, or if she wanted to sob. She watched as her mother nodded.
“I’m sorry, Minjae. I should have. . . I should have believed you sooner.” Her mother said.
Minjae shook her head. “Mother . . .”
Her mother pulled her into a tight hug.
“Please, Minjae, let us not be apart again.” he mother said into her hair. Minjae swallowed hard. “These past few months have been awful. . . I’ve missed you.”
Minjae nodded into her mother’s chest. She was so familiar, in a dreamlike sense. She clung to the front of her mother’s blouse, taking in her scent- herbal tea and something sweet. Minjae couldn’t stop crying.
How could she be filled with so many tears?
*
Minjae laid on the bed, resting. It was nearly evening and she was exhausted. She had been wrung out, feeling every emotion she had been neglected of for the past few months, years- who knew how long, really.
She covered her eyes with her arm, recalling every moment of the day. How she had hugged her friends, exchanged social media handles, phone numbers and everything. Minjae didn’t even have a phone, but Yuna handed her one. Minjae grabbed it from her pocket.
Sometime between leaving WeiYoppu and Hyera Unnie putting her things in storage, Minjae’s phone went missing. She hardly used it anyway. The battery hardly held charge and she had stopped paying for it. Now, in this new phone, Minjae saw the list of names and numbers, the social media apps she once had and were downloaded. All she needed to do was log in.
All this time, Minjae thought she had needed only Hyera Unnie. Her world was once complete- what more could she have wanted? Have needed? Minjae was so naive and she couldn’t believe she had let everyone go.
She scrolled down the list.
Mother
Im Yisoo
Nam Suah
Shin Woohui
Kim Minji
Kang Yuna
Kang Yuna.
It was Yuna who had planned this, didn’t she?
Minjae closed her eyes and more tears came. She held her phone to her face and she couldn’t stop herself.
Kang Yuna must have overheard Hyera Unnie. She overheard enough to know what Hyera Unnie had offered her. She knew and planned all of this.
It was too much.
It was far too much.
Minjae wanted to cry, to laugh, to shout out. She wanted to shake Yuna, for being so sneaky. She wanted to hug her, for being so caring. She wanted to kiss her, and to thank her for caring so much.
Yuna planned it all to keep Minjae in Seoul.
And now Minjae was truly, absolutely torn.
*
As Minjae rested a little while longer, Yuna came in to mention that she and Minji were off to buy some beer with the dogs, and would return shortly. Minjae, still emotionally raw, nodded and pulled the blankets over her.
It wasn’t long after she heard the door close, did it open again. Minjae lifted her head, thinking Yuna had forgotten something, but no. It was her.
It was Oh Hyera.
“So, are you ready to go, my lovely Minjae?” Hyera Unnie said, glancing around Yuna’s bedroom. She wore a flowy white blouse tucked into a tight pink skirt. “I have a driver waiting.”
Minjae sat there, frozen. Her heart was pounding even faster now.
“Unnie-?” Minjae began.
Hyera Unnie stood at the foot of the bed, one hand on her waist and the other on her purse. “I knew something was up when Kim Minji, of all people, started wanting to hang out and drink those weeks ago. I know for fact she doesn’t party anymore.” Hyera Unnie explained, her lips twisted in a smirk. “But you? I’m so surprised. You left me, Minjae. And here you are, avoiding me. Did you think the guests would keep me away?”
“Unnie, please, let me explain!-!”
Hyera Unnie held up her hand. “No need to explain, Minjae. I know exactly what happened. Kang Yuna stole you from me, didn’t she?”
“I-!”
“And look at you, being kept in her bedroom?” Hyera Unnie smirked. “Are you her bed slave, too? Have you no shame, Minjae? Or do you open your legs to anyone who’ll ask you?”
Minjae lowered her gaze, fighting off tears.
“Now, you have two choices, Minjae.” Hyera Unnie began coolly. “You can stay here, and wait for Kang Yuna to fuck you and then cast you aside for Kim Minji. Or, you can come back with me, to Jeju,. The punishment will be less severe if you hurry along, Minjae.”
“Unnie, please, it’s not like that-!” Minjae began but Hyera Unnie scoffed so loudly, Minjae didn’t dare continue.
“Minjae, do you honestly expect me to believe that Kang Yuna isn’t fucking you?” Hyera Unnie asked. She rounded the bed and pushed Minjae into the mattress too easily. Minjae froze there, unsure of what to do. “No one can resist you, Minjae. No one can deny your beauty.”
Hyera Unnie tugged down Minjae’s shorts and panties too quickly. Minjae laid there, her eyes wide and her heart threatening to explode.
“And you’re too much of a slut to say no,” Hyera Unnie pushed open Minjae’s thighs to glide her fingers inside of her. “You’re already so wet, Minjae. Look at you!”
Minjae let out a gasp, closing her eyes tightly. She couldn’t move even if she wanted to. She grasped the duvet under her, trying not to cry.
“Did Kang Yuna fuck you today?” Hyera Unnie asked, pulling her fingers out of her. “Or are you waiting for her, like a good slut?”
A small sob escaped her lips. Minjae opened her eyes at last, only for her gaze to meet Hyera’s. Hyera Unnie stood over her, licking her fingers as she planted one knee on Minjae’s shorts between her thighs.
“Don’t lie to your master like this, Minjae,” Hyera Unnie continued. She pushed up Minjae’s shirt. “Hmm, I forgot how fun undressing you is.”
“Unnie-!” Minjae managed to say as her shirt was pushed up over her breasts, revealing her bra.
“Kang Yuna won’t be home for a while. Should I fuck you on her bed?” Hyera Unnie asked, pulling down the cups of Minjae’s bra. “Or should we wait for her and make her watch? Wouldn’t that just break her heart?”
Tears were threatening to fall now.
“Imagine, Kang Yuna finally having enough of you, of your deceitful, lewd ways!” Hyera Unnie undid the clasps of Minjae’s bra and cupped her bare breasts. “Doesn’t she know who you slept with? Doesn’t she know that you’ll open your legs for anyone?”
“Unnie-!” Minjae cried out as Hyera pinched both of her nipples at the same time.
“That’s why you belong to me, Minjae.” Hyera Unnie smirked, leaning over Minjae. “Only I can tame you. Only I can satisfy you.”
At once, Hyera’s mouth crashed against Minjae’s. After days and weeks of not being touched, Minjae couldn’t help but melt into the kiss, despite the adrenaline pumping through her. Hyera Unnie’s lips against hers was too familiar of a feeling. Her hands massaged her breasts more tenderly, more carefully. Minjae held back a moan, trying not to prove Hyera Unnie right.
But was she right?
It had been so long since Minjae had felt Hyera Unnie’s touch. She slowly let go of the death grip she had on the blanket under her and reached up to embrace Hyera Unnie. Pulling her against her half naked body, Minjae let out a small gasp. Hyera Unnie smirked against her lips, one hand delving between Minjae’s thighs.
“So I’m fucking you right here, huh?” Hyera Unnie muttered, pushing her fingers inside of Minjae.
“Ha-!” Minjae arched her back. It had been far too long. She couldn’t reply.
“Good girl,” Hyera Unnie praised. “You won’t leave me again, will you?”
“Ha-!” Minjae couldn’t help herself. She bucked her hips as Hyera curled her fingers, massaging her g spot. Hyera Unnie sat between her thighs, her other hand cupping her mound and rubbing her clit. She was so dizzy and lightheaded, Minjae was floating.
It was all too much. Everything about today was too much. Her mind was exhausted, and now, her body, too.
“Hmm? Answer me, Minjae.”
“Ha-!” Minjae couldn’t answer. She was too busy cumming. Her core was numb for the first time in days, and the flood of endorphins was such a relief, she let out a loud sob.
“Your poor thing.” Hyera Unnie laughed cruelly. “You’re so helpless.”
Panting and wiping her eyes, Minjae watched as Hyera Unnie stepped away from her, leaving Minjae half naked, exhausted, and wet between the thighs.
“Look at you, Minjae.” Hyera Unnie gestured to her. “It’s almost pathetic. Isn’t Kang Yuna fucking you properly? Can’t you put up more of a fight than that?”
Minjae swallowed hard, her arousal turning into shame. “Unnie, I told you, it’s not like that-!”
Hyera Unnie shook her head. “If she’s not fucking you, then why are you here? What does Kang Yuna offer you that I can’t?”
“I-!”
A door opened and closed loudly. The sounds of footsteps and dogs whining filled the air. “Minjae! We’re home!”
Yuna was home.
At once, Minjae scrambled to get dressed and cover herself. Hyera Unnie laughed, then left the bedroom. Before Minjae could even get her shorts on properly, Yuna crashed into the room, her icy blue eyes locked on her.
And all Minjae could do was pull up her shorts and hastily fix her bra.
*
“Minjae!” Yuna called out but as she did, Oh Hyera emerged from her bedroom, smirking. All at once, her heart sank and her smile disappeared. “Oh Hyera, what are you doing here?”
At once, Yuna cursed herself. She had left Minjae alone on the day Oh Hyera was supposed to return. It was stupid of her to do so- even if she hadn’t shown up all day, of course Hyera would bide her time and wait until the guests had left.
Carefully, Hyera approached her but Yuna walked past her. She threw open the bedroom door and at that moment, her heart sank so terribly to a new low. Minjae was pulling up her shorts and her breasts were exposed. As Minjae fixed her bra, Yuna left the room. Tears were threatening to fall, but she wouldn’t let them. Instead, she focused on Hyera. She grabbed the front of her blouse.
“What the fuck are you doing here?” Yuna demanded. “Why are you here?”
Hyera smiled lazily. “I came for my wife.”
Yuna narrowed her eyes. “You really want us to believe-?”
“You can believe whatever you want, Kang Yuna.” Hyera replied calmly. She grabbed Yuna’s wrist. “But don’t touch me.”
Yuna let go of her, but her fists were still clenched.
“I came here for my lovely Minjae. We just had a very, hmm. . . what’s the word? Engaging chat.” Hyera continued. She glanced over at the bedroom door, where Minjae had appeared.
“Minjae!” Yuna began but her downcast stare and inward posture told her everything she needed to know. “What did you do to her?”
Hyera shrugged. “Nothing.” She crossed the room to Minjae and wrapped an arm around the small of her waist. “Minjae, my dear, you were just telling me that you were thinking of coming back with me, right?”
Yuna watched Minjae. She did not reply.
“Thank you, Kang Yuna, for watching over my lovely Minjae,” Hyera said, her gaze locked onto Yuna’s. Her voice was soft and polite, but there was something in her eyes. Something darker, more malicious. “Minjae, you should thank Kang Yuna, too. She’s been too kind to you, I’m sure.”
Yuna glanced at Minjae, her stomach twisting. Minjae bowed at the waist.
“Thank you, Kang Yuna,” Minjae said.
“Perfect.” Hyera let go of Minjae’s waist and grabbed her hand instead. She led the way, while Minjae followed behind. Hyera stopped in front of Yuna, leaning into her ear. “Don’t forget, she’s mine, Kang Yuna.”
Yuna kept her eyes on Minjae. She did not follow Hyera when she made her way to the door. Instead, Minjae stood in front of Yuna, hesitating.
“Minjae . . .'' Yuna pulled Minjae into a hug, taking this chance. It was her only chance. She hugged her tightly, her face in Minjae’s hair. “You don’t have to do this. You don’t have to follow her. Stay here, with me.”
Yuna could feel Minjae in her arms, melting into her embrace.
“I did this for you. I found everyone and brought them here for you.” Yuna began, her voice tight. She held onto her. “Please don’t go. You have a choice. You can do what you want.”
Minjae was trembling in her arms. “Yuna . . .” she muttered.
“You can do what you want. You don’t have to do this. You don’t have to go anywhere.” Yuna urged. “Please, stay with me.”
Yuna closed her eyes tightly, tears threatening to fall. What else could she do? She had confessed her feelings, broke up with Minji, tracked down her friends and family and threw a party to keep Minjae by her side. This was her desperate, final plea.
“Minjae, the driver is waiting,” Hyera said after a bit. “And we have some packing to do.”
Slowly, and to Yuna’s horror, Minjae pulled away from Yuna. Her large, tear- filled eyes were on Yuna, their gazes locked onto each other. This was it. Her very last chance.
Yuna scooped Minjae into arms once more, pressing her lips against Minjae’s.
“Kang Yuna-!” Hyera gasped as Minji, who was with the dogs, whooped from the backyard door.
Yuna didn’t pull away. She pulled Minjae closer against her, inviting Minjae to open her mouth and deepen the kiss. Minjae did so, humming softly. Yuna ignored Hyera’s calls to stop touching Minjae, but Minjae wasn’t pushing her away. Minjae wasn’t fighting her off. Minjae reached up and cupped Yuna’s cheek. It felt so right to have her in her arms. It was so familiar, so comforting. Yuna had wanted to kiss Minjae for days. She couldn’t hold back anymore. Nothing could stop her. Yuna’s heart fluttered in her chest and her lower belly ached. She could only dwell on those seconds, as they kissed, until Minjae pulled away first.
“Minjae,” Yuna still had her in her arms. Tears were stinging her eyes, too. “I love you. I love you so much. I did all of this for you. I want you by my side, Minjae. Please, please tell me you’ll stay. Don’t walk away again.”
Yuna watched as Minjae smiled, wiping her eyes of the new tears. The longer the hesitation, the deeper the wound, but Yuna didn’t care. She held onto that glimmer of hope in Minjae’s smile.
“I’ll stay,” Minjae replied quietly. “I’ll stay with you, Yuna.”
Notes:
Hey everyone!! This is the famous chapter that made me cry while writing it. If it didn't bring a small tear to your eye, you may have a problem haha.
Speaking of tears, my good news came too soon and I'm not sure if it still applies . . . Let's all have a hearty cry and hope for the best.
We'll see Hyera's reaction to Yuna's declaration and Minjae's decision on Monday!! Enjoy!!
Chapter 51: Chapter Thirty One: Stay
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Minjae pulled away from the kiss, her head spinning.
It was all too much but with Yuna, it was right. It was perfect.
“Minjae,” Yuna began. Those icy blue eyes were locked onto her, filling with tears. “I love you. I love you so much. I did all of this for you. I want you by my side, Minjae. Please, please tell me you’ll stay. Don’t walk away again.”
Minjae wiped away more tears. This was it. This was what she was waiting for. She had to stay. She couldn’t leave- not after everything Yuna had done for her. Not after reuniting with her mother, her friends. She couldn’t walk away again.
Not after Hyera Unnie had pinned her to the bed and called her a slut.
“I’ll stay,” Minjae replied. “I’ll stay with you, Yuna.”
Yuan broke into a grin and pulled Minjae into another hug. Minjae held onto her so tightly, she was sure she’d ache in the morning.
“Excuse me?” Hyera said at once, hands on her hips. “That’s not what you told me, Cho Minjae.”
Minjae gulped and spun around. As she did, Yuna grabbed her hand and squeezed it.
“Hyera Unnie, I can’t. I can’t go to Jeju Island with you. I can’t be your wife. I can’t. . . I can’t belong to you anymore.” Minjae began.
Hyera’s eyes widened. “What are you saying, Minjae? Choose your words carefully.”
Yuna tightened her hold on her hand.
“You heard her, Oh Hyera.” Yuna stepped in. “Minjae doesn’t want to go with you.”
“I want to hear her say it.” Hyera shot back. She approached Minjae and leaned into her ear. “Didn’t I just make you cum, Minjae? Or did you forget? It’s been so long since I’ve reminded you of your place, Minjae.”
Minjae recoiled. “No, Unnie, no more!”
Hyera scoffed. “No more, huh? That’s not what you told me, Minjae.” Hyera said loudly, glancing from Yuna to Minji. “Did you say that to your stepbrother, when you seduced him? Or what about Yang Kyerin, hmm? Or even Kang Yuna, have you ever told her to stop fucking you?”
It was as if the air was knocked from her lungs. Even if Yuna already knew, to hear the words loud and clear in the kitchen sent Minjae into a spiral, pushing herself away from the two of them. She couldn’t stop herself from crying, from shaking. Shame ran through her, seeping into her pores, blooming from the pit in her stomach that she had held onto for so long.
“That’s what I thought, Cho Minjae.” Hyera said. “Did you know, Kang Yuna, that your precious lover wasn’t so faithful? Did you know how many people have fucked her while you loved her?”
Suddenly, Hyera grabbed Minjae by the wrist and pulled her close. “Minjae is so lewd. She’s such a little whore. I’m sure she’s fun to play with, but I don’t see you marrying such a filthy girl.” Hyera wrapped her arm around Minjae’s waist and grasped at Minjae’s breast. “I know you’re secretly a romantic at heart, Kang Yuna. This little slut is not.”
Minjae couldn’t bear to look at Yuna as Hyera fondled her. She shook in her grasp, wishing she could be alone.
“Let her go, Hyera,” Yuna said at once. “I already know and I don’t care.”
“You don’t care?” Hyera replied. “You don’t care that Minjae betrayed you, over and over again?”
Minjae let out a pathetic sob. She didn’t want to be reminded of her past crimes. Hyera held her so tightly, afraid to let her slip from her fingers.
“You don’t care that just moments ago, she opened her legs for me?” Hyera reached down and tugged at Minjae’s shorts. “She came so hard, so easily. You wouldn’t want a slut like Cho Minjae.”
“Let her go!” Yuna shouted as Minjae’s shorts came off so easily.
“Feel her, she’s still wet.” Hyera parted Minjae’s thighs with her spare hand. “Do you still want her, Yuna? Do you want this slut for yourself?”
Minjae cried out, shaking all over.
“Let her go!” Yuna shouted again. “She’s-!”
“I don’t blame you,” Hyera leaned into Minjae’s ear, her hand curling between Minjae’s thighs. “She’s fun to play with but she can’t be loyal. She needs to be satisfied in a specific way, right Minjae?”
“Unnie . . . please . . . let me go . ..'' Minjae muttered, not daring to move as Hyera’s fingers pushed against, but not penetrating her.
“Tell Kang Yuna about the toys we play with,” Hyera continued. Her fingers were right there, ready to push in. Minjae tried to angle her hips away but she was too scared to move. “Tell them about the clamps, Minjae. Tell them about the fat dildos.”
Minjae shook her head, holding back another sob. She didn’t dare look at Yuna or Minji. She didn’t dare to meet their eyes. She knew they were there, staring at her. Judging her. Pitying her.
It hurt so much. The shame was too much.
Maybe this was it. Maybe this was what she deserved.
“C’mon, Minjae, don’t be shy. Tell Kang Yuna.” Hyera urged. “Tell her about the times you lied, about how you visited me once you two were living together.”
“Hyera, this is too much!” Minji shouted suddenly.
Minjae glanced up at last, in a haze of tears. Minji stood there, next to Yuna, who was crying as well, fists clenched.
“This is too much! Minjae isn’t a toy! She’s a person! So what if she messed up?” Minji continued shouting. “She . . . She deserves respect, too!”
Suddenly, Hyera pushed Minjae away. Minjae cried out, tripping on her shorts at her knees and onto the hard floor. Her knees and palms were sore, hitting the hard tiles first. In a desperate struggle to cover herself, Minjae almost didn’t notice Yuna kneeling down next to her.
“You can’t just do this, Hyera! You can’t treat people this way!” Minji continued.
“She wants to be treated this way.” Hyera said at once.
Minjae hung her head, the shaking worse now. She felt Yuna’s hands on her shoulders, trying to hold her steady but it wasn’t enough.
“And she’ll come crawling back when she realises that no one can satisfy her like I can.” Hyera said at once. “You know where to find me, Cho Minjae.”
Minjae waited until she heard Hyera walk away before slowly getting up. Minjae refused the help from Yuna, who offered her hand. She fixed her clothes once more, still unable to look either Minji or Yuna in the eye.
“Minjae,” Yuna began.
She shook her head, holding herself tightly. What could she say? What was there to even say? Hyera was right. She was always right.
Minjae hurried to the bedroom and closed the door behind her. She let out the loud, desperate sob she had kept inside for far too long.
*
Watching Hyera fondle Minjae in front of her was the hardest thing Yuna had ever had to witness. Minjae, her face hidden by her fringe of hair, her body limp in Hyera’s hands. Her shorts pulled down to her knees and her sex exposed. She couldn't tell if Hyera really pushed inside or not, but she rather not know. Hyera touched Minjae like she was hers to have, as if she were just a doll to manipulate, spewing out those horrible things about her.
And all Yuna could do was watch helplessly.
She hated herself for it.
And when Minjae locked herself in Yuna’s bedroom, Yuna didn’t chase after her.
“She went too far.” Minji said once the calm had returned and the beers were cracked open. It was evening now and the day had exhausted them both.
Yuna agreed.
“Poor Minjae. Should we try talking to her?” Minji asked.
Yuna drank from her beer can deeply. “I don’t know.”
“Why not?” Minji asked. “I mean, today was terrible.”
“And we don’t need to make it worse.” Yuna replied.
“I suppose.” Minji sighed. “But she stayed. It worked.”
Yuna drank more. Yes, the party worked and Minjae chose to stay, but was it worth the price?
“You did what you could, Yuna.” Minji added, placing her hand on Yuna’s knee. “We were all taken aback by what Hyera did.”
“I should have stepped up. I should have done more.”
“You were shocked! So was I!” Minji replied. “What could we have done?”
Yuna shook her head, then drank more beer.
*
Minji left not too long after her beer was done. The dogs were tired and Minji was tipsy, so she called her father to pick her up. Yuna cleaned up as much as she could, but found herself exhausted and wrung out. She locked the doors, closed the lights, and headed into the bedroom.
Minjae was asleep in the bed, over the covers. She still wore her clothes from earlier. She was all curled up, almost like a cat. Yuna changed into her pyjamas, then moved to Minjae’s side of the bed. She placed the covers over her, to keep her warm, then Yuna joined her in bed.
Despite her own exhaustion, Yuna did not fall asleep right away. She found herself going over the evening’s events, the cruelty in Hyera’s eyes, the tightness of her grasp on Minjae, and the submission she displayed. By the time Yuna found herself drifting off, Minjae began to toss and turn.
So Yuna pulled her in close by the waist, kissed the top of her head, then fell asleep right away.
Notes:
Is this the last we'll see of Oh Hyera? Of course not!
Also #mvpminji should be a thing. As always Minji is the hero here haha.
Writing lately has been really hard. To be fair, I've been writing non stop without any major breaks since February. Usually I take breaks between projects but I planned side stories vol 2 and mystery fic at the same time, then wrote one after another. Mystery fic is about 80% done but there's still some edits I want to make. It doesn't help that I've been feeling down lately and my energy hasn't been the same. I usually don't have seasonal depression yet (it always hits in janurary, not october). A small hiatus might be in order. Luckily, there's still a few chapters left of Midnight Ice and five side stories to go before mystery fic.
Updates will be on saturdays only now. Enjoy the fic, leave a comment and see you on saturday!!!
Chapter 52: Chapter Thirty Two: Change
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The next few days were quiet.
Yuna continued to work from home, despite her boss’ annoyance. She watched Minjae from afar, trying not to pry but it was hard not to want to hold her, to stroke her hair and tell her that everything’s going to be alright.
After all, Minjae could barely look Yuna in the eye.
Meal times were quiet, too. Yuna tried her best to encourage Minjae to eat, to talk but nothing she did worked. Minjae poked at her food, barely touching any of the dishes. Yuna could catch glimpses of her red, swollen eyes. When Minjae did speak, it was for the bare minimum.
Only at night did Minjae open herself to Yuna and it was because she was asleep. The nightmares were more frequent, Yuna observed. Yuna held onto her throughout the night, not letting go. Even as she held her, Minjae trembled and groaned.
Yuna had never felt so useless.
*
There was a knock at the door right after lunch. Minjae was tidying up the kitchen as Yuna cleared off the kitchen table.
“I’m not expecting anyone,” Yuna muttered to herself as she approached the door. She opened it slowly, not sure who to expect on the other side. To her relief, it was a delivery man.
“I have a delivery for Cho Minjae?” The man said. “Where can I leave it?”
Yuna furrowed her brow. “A delivery?”
Minjae appeared next to her, also confused.
The man sighed. “I have two plastic bins and a cardboard box of items being delivered from Mrs Oh Hyera?” The delivery man read plainly from his clipboard.
Yuna glanced at Minjae, who paled at once.
“Yes, just bring it to the kitchen, please.” Yuna replied quickly. She grabbed Minjae’s hand. “Are you okay?”
Minjae gulped, but nodded.
They watched in silence as the delivery man brought in the boxes and then Minjae signed the form to confirm the delivery. They wished each other a good afternoon and the delivery man left.
Yuna watched as Minjae approached the plastic bins.
“Hyera had put my things in storage,” Minjae began quietly. She grabbed the first bin that was stacked on another and placed it on the floor. She knelt down and opened it. Her laptop was there, along with the empty jewellery box. “I. . . I can’t believe she sent them back.”
“Well, she did.” Yuna replied. She knelt next to Minjae, noticing the tears building in her eyes. “Minjae, this must mean it's over.”
Minjae glanced at her, their eyes meeting for the first time in days. It wasn’t long before Minjae averted her gaze.
“I’m relieved. . . I’m scared . . .” Minjae began. “I’m devastated. Hyera . . . Oh Hyera was everything to me.”
“And she treated you so poorly.” Yuna reached out and rubbed Minjae’s back. “You deserve better. You . . . Deserve every bit of happiness, Minjae.”
Minjae scoffed. “No, I don’t.”
Yuna stopped rubbing, shocked.
“I don’t deserve any of your kindness, Kang Yuna,” Minjae muttered. She was clenching her fists. “Hyera was right about me. I’m not worthy of you. I’m not your lover. I’m not the grand romance that you deserve. I’m . . .”
“Minjae,” Yuna began.
“I’m a slut,” Minjae finished. “And you deserve better than me.”
At once, Minjae stood up and hurried out to the backyard. Yuna sat there, dumbfounded. Poor Minjae. . . Yuna stared at the plastic bin of Minjae’s clothes, her books and the sealed cardboard box.
Hyera had packed up everything that belonged to Minjae and stuffed it into those boxes. She made Minjae fit into those boxes, too. She contorted Minjae into someone she was not and muddled her thoughts to match. Yuna clenched her fists. Why was Hyera so cruel to Minjae? What had Minjae done to deserve such awful treatment and then be made to believe it was all she deserved?
Yuna got up and hurried over to the backyard. Minjae was there, in the shade of the apartment building. She was crouched, her arms around her knees and her head bent down. She was trembling and as Yuna approached, she could hear her sobbing.
“Minjae, don’t you dare believe a word Hyera has said about you.” Yuna began at once, her voice strong and firm. She wanted to be confident in her words, despite the anger that was coursing through her. “She manipulated you. Minji and I saw it the other day. She made you feel worthless but it’s not true.”
Minjae didn’t move. She was still sobbing, but not as loud.
“You’re a good writer, Minjae. You have drive and ambition. You’re caring, too. You were there for me when Minji had left, when I would have spiralled. I . . . I leaned on you and you helped me so much. Remember the rice porridge?”
Slowly, Minjae lifted her head. “I did it . . . I did it because I wanted to seduce you.” She muttered.
Yuna swallowed hard. “No, you did it because you cared. You took care of me that day because you cared. You didn’t have to do anything for me. You could have kissed me and I would have been seduced, but you didn’t. I kissed you.”
That day was the day Yuna had kissed Minjae for the first time, in the humidity of her bathroom. She wanted to fuck her, too. She wanted all of Minjae. It wasn’t because she was beautiful, but for so many other reasons.
“And if all you wanted to do was seduce me, then why did it take so long to have sex?” Yuna asked, her cheeks warming up. “I was willing to have you so many times. After kissing you, I would have. But you never tried. You never initiated. It was me.”
Minjae didn’t reply. She was staring out into the backyard. Her eyes seem duller and her cheeks splotchy from the tears.
“You succeeded in seducing me, Minjae, but not because of your looks, or your body, or what you could do in bed, but because it’s you. You care for me. You . . . You’re you, Minjae.” Yuna added. “You’re so much more than what Hyera says you are. She doesn’t care about any other part of you. I do. I care about all of you.
“I’ve told you dozens of times.” Yuna sat down next to Minjae. She noticed that the diamond ring was no longer on her ring finger. “I love you. I love you so much.”
Minjae finally glanced up at Yuna. “Even after what Hyera has done?”
“Yes, even after that.” Yuna replied, her heart aching at the thought of Hyera fondling Minjae.
“Even . . . even though I did those awful things?” Minjae asked, her voice even quieter.
“Yes.” Yuna said at once.
Minjae’s eyes widened. “Why? I wasn’t faithful to you. I . . I did awful, terrible things. . !”
“Minjae, listen to me. Hyera pressured you into doing those things.” Yuna began. “And you had to do what you had to do. I . . . I was upset at first, but now I see how Hyera has treated you . . .”
Watching Hyera treat Minjae so horribly made Yuna understand at once and any lingering feelings she had about Minjae sleeping with others while they had dated were squashed down. Minjae hadn’t slept with those people because she wanted to, or had any alternative choices. Hyera had forced her into it.
“And I have a feeling that refusing Hyera would have been trouble for you.” Yuna added. “So I’m not upset with you. I’m angry with Hyera. She put you into this mess.”
“Yuna,” Minjae began, extending her legs. “I . . . I wasn’t supposed to fall in love with you.”
“No?” Yuna smiled.
Minjae shook her head, still staring out into the sky in the distance. Clouds were gathering. It had been terribly humid for days.
“She had asked me to seduce you, to separate you from Minji.” Minjae explained. “But as you treated me with kindness, the more I got to know you, the more I became a part of your life . . .”
Minjae glanced at Yuna and Yuna’s heart clenched when she saw that small smile.
“I knew it would be very difficult to pull myself away from you. Hyera. . . Hyera asked me to break up with you and. . . And I didn’t want to do it.” Minjae continued. “I wanted to stay by your side so badly.”
“So you obeyed her?” Yuna finished.
“I had to.” Minjae replied. “I was afraid that you would think differently of me. That you’d hate me if Hyera exposed me if I didn’t break up with you.”
“Oh, Minjae,” Yuna sighed.
“So I did what I had to do.” Minjae continued. “And since then, I became Hyera’s. She . . . she gave me the collar and I was solely hers.”
Yuna swallowed hard, watching Minjae’s expression shift. She was no longer smiling.
“We lived separately for a while. Once Hyera had finished her studies, we moved into a condo. Once I graduated, Hyera asked me to stay with her, to never leave her side. I . . . I dropped the job offer from WeiYoppu and I obeyed her.” Minjae closed her eyes tightly. “And everything got worse from there.
“She . . . she destroyed the necklace, Yuna.”
Yuna furrowed her brow and then it hit her.
“The one I bought you? From the beach?” Yuna asked.
Minjae closed her eyes tightly and nodded. “Yes, that one!”
“I . . .” Yuna began.
“I’m sorry. I tried to keep it safe-!” Minjae began wiping her eyes again.
“That’s not your fault, Minjae,” Yuna wrapped Minjae into a tight hug. “Hyera destroyed it, not you. You did what you could-!”
Minjae sobbed harder, clinging to Yuna.
“Let it out, Minjae,” Yuna said, pressing her nose against the top of Minjae’s head, breathing in her scent. “You’re safe now.”
“Yuna-!”
As Yuna held her, she promised herself that she’d never forgive Hyera for this.
*
Minjae waited a few more days before tackling the rest of the boxes. She put away the contents of the plastic bins, since it was her clothes and her books. The cardboard box, however, was a mystery to Minjae.
Minjae made sure Yuna was busy with a work call when she opened the cardboard box. She wanted to be alone to sift through it. She had no idea what was in it, after all. So when she cut the tape that sealed the box and saw what was inside, Minjae’s heart dropped.
Inside were all of the toys that Hyera loved to use on Minjae. The golden clamps, the red leather handcuffs, the little birdcage clamps, various paddles and dildos and the double prong vibrator. . . And then a note was on top of it all. With a trembling hand as her heart pounded in her chest, Minjae took the note and unfolded it.
My Minjae,
You have made your choice and I hope that you are satisfied. I am not. I know your true nature. I know that Kang Yuna will never satisfy you. Here are the toys. Let’s see if Kang Yuna is capable of even attempting to bring you the same pleasure I did.
Text me so you can meet up with me. I would like the collar and the ring back. If you truly choose Kang Yuna over me, then there is no point in you keeping those items.
If you keep the collar and the ring, then I know you’re still mine. I’ll wait for you, Cho Minjae. I’ll wait for you and show you where you truly belong.
Oh Hyera
(Xxxxxxxxx)
Minjae’s trembling became worse. She dropped the note before she could tear it by accident. There it was, in writing. There it was, in the box. The collection of things that Hyera had used to pleasure her, to control her, to make her bend to her will. Minjae closed the box, unable to look directly at the toys.
Yes, Hyera had brought her so much pleasure. So much, undeniable, unfathomable pleasure, and even being reminded of it made Minjae ache, deep in her core. Even when she visited, when Hyera had pushed her onto the bed and pulled down her shorts, even then, despite her shock, her fear, she felt pleasure. Hyera knew her body far too well. She commanded her like no other.
It would be easy to return to Hyera. So very easy. It would take one phone call and one I’m sorry, Unnie, please forgive me. I’m yours and you’re all I need and it would be done. Hyera would move her to Jeju Island, and that would be it. Yes, there would be loneliness, yes, there would be Hyera’s soft yet powerful touch. Would there be punishments? And games? And teasings? Of course.
Yet.
Yet Kang Yuna loved her.
Minjae turned to see Yuna at the kitchen table. She was on the phone, her glasses perched on the end of her nose as she pursed her lips at a document. She wore loose pants and a form fitting t-shirt- her usual lounge wear in the heat of the summer. As she stared, Minjae’s heart skipped a beat.
There was something about their simple life in the apartment in the neighbourhood they lived in. She and Yuna would eat breakfast together, taking turns cooking. They’d run errands together, if not, it was Minjae who would make the grocery run on her own. Sometimes they’d watch dramas in the evening and somehow, Minjae got sucked in despite the cliche’d writing. Whenever Minji would visit, Minjae tried to be brave around the dogs, and it got easier every time. Every night, they’d fall asleep in the same bed, separated by the length of their arms, but every morning, Minjae would wake up with Yuna’s arm around her waist, holding her close. If Minjae had nightmares, she barely remembered them, if any at all.
It was calm. It was simple. Everyday, it got a little better. Nearly everyday, Minjae sent texts to her friends, or they sent her one. Her mother had called her in the evening, to ask how she was.
Minjae never felt alone.
Minjae glanced back down at the box. Maybe it wasn’t so easy to make the choice. Maybe the right choice was right in front of her all along. Minjae got up and headed back to the bedroom. She had kept the red leather collar and the diamond ring in the dresser that Yuna had given her. Minjae stared at those two items, feeling the worn leather, the smoothness of the band of the ring, before she brought them back to the living room.
She didn’t check to see if Yuna had noticed her. She didn’t care if she did. Minjae placed the collar and the ring into the box and then closed the box.
Hyera wanted her back. She humiliated her, exposed her, and treated her terribly. Yuna showed her that she deserved more.
And Minjae was beginning to believe it.
Notes:
I started editing the chapter and then I realized that it's not saturday oops.
I can't believe Midnight Ice is nearly done!!! Three chapters and an epilogue left! I'm so excited to post Cherry Gold: Side Stories Volume 2 (5 spicy stories with the endgame couple). I know the side stories don't get as many hits but the events in the stories take place during Mystery Fic and the final one connects directly to an event in Mystery Fic. Its very important to read if you want to understand the Mystery Fic better.
Anyway! This chapter! It's a breakthrough for Minjae, who regressed since the events of the past two chapters. Poor girl. Now, will she be brave enough to return the box?
See you guys next saturday!! Enjoy!!!
Chapter 53: Chapter Thirty Three: A Warning
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“I didn’t think you’d actually show up, Kang Yuna,” Hyera said, sliding across from Yuna at the table.
Yuna didn’t reply. She sat there, eyes narrowed on Hyera, her palms flat on her thighs. She was trying to remain calm. She was trying not to lash out. It would be easy to shout, to yell, but Yuna didn’t want her emotions to get the better of her. She didn’t want Hyera to see her upset. She didn’t have the right. It was already enough that Yuna had caved in and called Hyera to talk.
It was enough that Yuna had peeked inside the box that Minjae had left out and read the note.
“This is a warning, Oh Hyera,” Yuna began. A waitress was approaching their table, so she held back long enough to only ask for a glass of water. Hyera did the same. Once the waitress was gone, she resumed her glare. “I saw what you sent Minjae. You have to stop contacting her.”
Hyera leaned on the table, smiling a little too smugly. Yuna hated it. “I’m just returning what belongs to her, that’s all.” She replied.
“And that note?”
Hyera’s eyes narrowed with her smile. “What about it?”
Yuna clenched her fists under the table.
“Yuna, my dear friend, you don’t understand what me and Minjae have,” Hyera began, her eyes fixed on Yuna. “Minjae likes it when I’m cruel to her.”
“I don’t believe that,” Yuna replied.
How could she? After what she had witnessed, and the aftermath of it all? Minjae had just begun eating normally again, going out on walks. Yuna knew she was in contact with her friends, her mother. She had overheard Minjae making plans to meet up with her mother to sort out her finances with her bank. Hyera had taken away all of Minjae’s progress, all of her joy with just her presence.
“You don’t know Minjae like I do.” Hyera smirked. She sat up straight and sipped her iced water. “Do you really think she’s honest with you? Do you really think she’s ever going to be satisfied with you after years of me?”
Yuna felt her cheeks heat up. “That doesn’t matter.”
“Sex doesn’t matter?” Hyera scoffed. “For a slut like Minjae, that’s all that matters.”
“She’s not a slut.” Yuna wanted to shout, but the cafe Hyera had chosen was crowded. Even if there was a constant din of conversation and tableware against utensils, Yuna did not want to make a scene.
Hyera only smiled. “Minjae will never forget me, Yuna. Even if you have her, it won’t be completely. She will always think of me, and what I was capable of making her body experience.”
“You’re terrible, Oh Hyera.” Yuna replied. “You have no shame. Minjae . . . Minjae deserves so much more than you.”
Simply shrugging, Hyera did not reply.
“And I hate you for it. I will never forgive you for what you’ve done to Minjae, for what you made her do.” Yuna added, hating that Hyera was so nonchalant, so uncaring. How could she sit there and be so cruel? So casual about someone who loved her?
“I never made Minjae do anything.” Hyera said after a pause. “She had the choice. She was never under any duress. I don’t know what she’s told you, Yuna, but I gave her the choice. I made suggestions, and she complied without any arm twisting, I assure you.”
Yuna swallowed hard and reminded herself to not believe a single word.
“You don’t believe me? Trust me, Minjae very much enjoyed seducing you. She came so much when Yang Kyerin fucked her,” Hyera recounted, winking. “These were not the awful things you made them out to be.”
“And her step brother?” Yuna asked, swallowing hard once more. “You think she wanted to seduce him, too?”
Hyera only smiled. “She could have said no.”
“She has nightmares, every single night!” Yuna shouted, her heart racing.
“So?” Hyera said with a shrug. “We all have our problems. So does she.”
“I mean it, Oh Hyera,” Yuna stood up at once. She couldn’t stand it any longer. There was no reasoning with Hyera. There was no point in getting her to treat Minjae like a person who deserved empathy. “Do not contact Minjae again. I’ll call the police. I promise.”
Yuna pushed in the chair and made the move to turn, but Hyera called out: “I’ll leave Cho Minjae alone, but there’s something you must do for me.”
Yuna paused, her fists still clenched.
“You see, Minjae still has the box. She wants to return it at a restaurant in two day’s time.” Hyera explained. “But if I go, you’ll make trouble for me, won’t you, Kang Yuna?”
Turning around, Yuna glanced at her. “I’ll be there. I’ll make sure Minjae is safe from you.”
Hyera smirked. “I’ll graciously accept the box and defeat, if you do one thing, Kang Yuna.”
Yuna swallowed hard again. A pit was growing in her stomach.
“You see, this is all your fault, Kang Yuna,” Hyera continued, smiling sweetly. “If you had just gone home with me all of those years ago, all of this could have been avoided.”
“What are you saying?” Yuna asked. It took her a moment, and Hyera gave her the time to recall what she was speaking of.
Freshman year, at the club. Yuna had almost gone home with Hyera. Almost. It was Minji that had called for help, and Yuna ran to her side. Since then, she ignored Hyera and rejected any chance to be alone with her.
A chill ran down her spine.
“So it’s my fault?” Yuna repeated. “Because I wouldn’t hook up with you?”
“Now you get it,” Hyera got up from her chair and rounded the table.
Very casually, she cupped Yuna’s face and pulled her in close.
“If you spend the night with me, I’ll never talk to Cho Minjae again.” Hyera muttered.
Yuna’s heart dropped to the floor.
A flurry of thoughts rushed through Yuna’s mind. All of this? Because of a single rejection? All of this pain, because of her? Yuna couldn’t wrap her head around holding onto such a thing for so long. Six years ago, Yuna didn’t give Hyera what she wanted and now, it resulted in all of this?
And she could resolve it.
“One night?” Yuna covered Hyera’s hand with her own. “With you?”
Hyera smiled softly. Yuna tried to place the sweetness that was seeping from Hyera, the fake sincerity, the obvious trap that laid before her.
“Yes, one night with me, and I’ll be out of your love life, Yuna,” Hyera pushed her chest against Yuna’s. She wore a low cut top, her cleavage very visible to Yuna. She glanced away.
“I’d rather die,” Yuna pulled away Hyera’s hand and turned away. “Stay away from Cho Minjae. I mean it.”
As Yuna walked away, she could feel the heat of Hyera’s stare.
“Kang Yuna! You idiot!” Hyera screamed.
Yuna kept walking.
*
When Yuna returned home, Minjae was on her phone, texting. She was smiling, laughing even. Yuna couldn’t help but smile as well, as her heart warmed at just the sight of her. Cho Minjae, her legs curled up under her on the couch. Her long red braid was over her shoulder and the skirt of her summer dress covering her thighs.
“Ah, you’re home!” Minjae said as she covered her mouth with the back of her hand. “Yisoo sent me this funny video. Do you want to see?”
Yuna nodded. “I could use a good laugh.”
Yuna sat next to Minjae, one arm on the back of the couch and she leaned in to see the screen. The video was absurd, and Yuna chuckled but Minjae howled with laughter. When was the last time Minjae had laughed like that?
“Minjae,” Yuna began.
Minjae closed her phone and turned her head to face Yuna. “Hmm?”
Their faces were so close, it would be easy for Yuna to kiss her. To hold her in her arms or to gently push her down on the couch. Minjae was even wearing a dress- Yuna wondered if Minjae would say yes, would allow her to push up her skirt and lick her up.
Yuna had been dreaming of it.
“Are you hungry?” Yuna asked.
“Starving, actually.” Minjae replied. “I’m marinating some beef. Should we start cooking?”
“Let it marinate. I’m in the mood to order something.” Yuna offered.
Minjae’s hand was on her own thigh, resting there. Yuna wanted to hold it. She wanted to pull Minjae close and protect her forever. She wanted to breathe in her scent and kiss her so badly.
But no. Not yet.
She wanted Minjae to make the first move.
“Sounds good.” Minjae smiled. “I like it better when the meat marinates overnight anyway.”
“Then it’s settled.” Yuna patted Minjae’s thigh and got off of the couch. “Let’s go.”
She wanted to offer her hand but refrained.
Yuna had a feeling she’d have to refrain herself often.
Notes:
Hey everyone!!! I have good news, mystery fic is almost done! I have the epilogue to nail down and then the edits and formatting, and it's done!!!
But meanwhile, Midnight Ice is almost done, too! The climax is next saturday! I'm so excited to post the final chapters and the epilogue, I hope you guys love the ending!!!
The Cherry Gold fics series will end with the mystery fic, I think. I have plans to write original stuff once mystery fic is completely done. I dont have any plans to write a third set of side stories. Maybe that'll change? I'm not sure. That or I'll do some requests for the third volume? We'll see.
Enjoy the chapter and prepare yourself for next saturday!!!
Chapter 54: Chapter Thirty- Four: Never Again
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
She knew that she’d have to do this herself.
Minjae waited until Yuna went to bed after a long day at the office. More meetings, apparently. Minjae feigned sleep for as long as possible, waiting until she heard Yuna’s steady breaths and her body stilled from sleep.
Once she was sure she was asleep, Minjae left the bed. She dressed for the cool night- a knit cardigan over her shirt- then grabbed the box from the living room. Minjae had sealed it up with everything inside. She could feel her heart grow heavy, but at the same time, anxious.
She hadn’t been alone with Hyera in ages. Minjae knew the risk in front of her- it wouldn’t be hard for Hyera to have her way with her, but Minjae wouldn’t let it happen. She couldn’t.
That chapter of her life was over now.
Minjae took the train, making the transfers and multiple stops until she reached the old neighbourhood where the condo she had shared was. Hyera was waiting for her there. Minjae wasn’t sure where else to meet- she wanted privacy, she wanted to make her statement alone, yet alone was how Hyera liked her the best. Alone and vulnerable.
She stood at the base of the condominium, staring up at the towering building, seemingly endless against the dark summer night. Minjae’s heart was pounding and she knew she was nervous. She wanted to get it all over with. She wanted to put an end to this, once and for all. She wanted to do this on her own, without Yuna to protect her, to worry over her, to think her fragile.
Minjae entered the lobby and took the elevator up. The silence of the night was deafening. Was it always so quiet? Even the elevator hummed inconspicuously. Her sandal- clad feet padded down the hallway, echoing slightly. The lights were dimmed for the night, and nothing could be heard. Minjae wondered if Hyera was growing impatient. If Hyera was waiting for her, in her pyjamas, or still in her clothes from the day.
Before the door, Minjae raised her fist to know, but she hesitated. She closed her eyes and took a deep, calming breath. In and out. She’d say what she’d have to say and then that would be it.
She knocked and the seconds between that and Hyera finally opening the door were excruciating.
Hyera opened the door, clad in her silk black robe. Minjae knew it well- it was short and hugged her curves so perfectly. Minjae tried not to stare.
“I waited for you, Minjae,” Hyera said with a smirk. She held a glass in her hand. “For far too long. Would you like a drink?”
“No, I’m good,” Minjae replied. She entered the condo, slipped off her sandals and then made her way to the kitchen at once.
“You act like you still live here, just marching in,” Hyera said with a scoff. “I’m surprised you’re so bold.”
Minjae placed the heavy box on the kitchen table. She glanced around the kitchen, the adjoining living room. It looked all so lonely, so unlived in. The counters were bare, the walls were stripped of the photos, the art. There were no longer any books laying about.
“Since you left, I began clearing this place out,” Hyera said, unprompted. She placed her half drunk glass of amber liquid on the table, her eyes locked on Minjae. “And that’s why you have a big box of dildos and other toys.”
“I’m returning them. I . . .'' Minjae glanced away, Hyera’s stare was too powerful, too intense. “We’re done, Hyera.”
“Oh, are we now?” Hyera replied, rounding the table.
Minjae took a step back. “We are. I. . . I can’t be with you. I can’t live like this anymore.”
“Like what?” Hyera pulled her in by the waist so suddenly, Minaje nearly squeaked. She cupped Minaje’s face softly. “You don’t like being my kept woman? What was so bad about that?”
Minjae didn’t dare look at Hyera. She could smell the alcohol on her breath.
“I pleasured you endlessly, didn’t I?” Hyera asked, her voice so soft and gentle. “I put your needs above mine every single night, didn’t I?”
She hated that her cheeks were heating up, that there was a throb of familiar pleasure aching in her lower belly.
“All I asked from you, Minjae,” Hyera leaned into her ear, pulling her closer. Hyera’s soft chest was against Minjae’s, their hips aligning. “Was that you stay by my side. Was that too much to ask of you?”
Minjae didn’t dare reply. She stood there, unable to move. Not daring to move. Hyera was saying all of the right things, twisting the truth so terribly.
“Minjae, you promised me your heart.” Hyera muttered, her lips against Minjae’s ear. Her hand slid from Minjae’s cheek, to her chest, directly over her heart. “And I want it so desperately.”
Her hand cupped Minjae’s breast, squeezing her so gently. Minjae held her breath.
“Shall I show you how much I want you? How much I missed you?” Hyera asked.
Her lips were grazing her ear, the heat of her breath unbearable.
“Hy-Hyera-” Minjae began as Hyera’s lips made contact with her neck. “Hyera-!”
“Push me away.” Hyera said between kisses against her neck. Her hand was squeezing Minjae’s breast a little more. Minjae gulped, feeling Hyera’s knee parting her legs. “Push me away if you want me to stop.”
Minjae gathered her strength and pressed against Hyera’s shoulders but it did nothing. A jolt of fear ran through Minjae’s body as Hyera pushed her against the table, pinning her in place.
“Go on,” Hyera urged, grabbing the hem of Minjae’s t-shirt. “Push me away.”
Minjae tried again, but with more force this time. She pushed Hyera at the shoulders as her shirt was pushed over her breasts. Every time she pushed and shoved Hyera, Hyera did not move. Hyera did not relent. She lowered the fabric cup of Minjae’s bra and planted her mouth over her nipple.
“Ha-! Stop-!” Minjae cried out, now pushing Hyera with all of her strength.
Hyera pulled away, wiping her bottom lip with a smirk. “Why are you fighting back, Minjae?”
Minjae moved away from the table, desperately fixing her shirt.
“I told you, we’re done. No more.” Minjae stated with a shaky voice. Her heart was pounding and her arousal was ignited. She hated it so much that Hyera could arouse her so easily. “I’m not sleeping with you tonight.”
Hyera scoffed. “So you came all this way, in the middle of the night, just to say no? To leave my side after pledging yourself to me a million times?”
Hugging herself, Minjae nodded. “This . . . This isn’t good for me.”
Hyera approached Minjae once more, but Minjae backed herself into the counter. Pinned there, Hyera reached between Minjae’s legs, over her shorts.
“I bet if I entered here,” Hyera said with a smirk. “You’d be wet.”
Minjae shook her head, but she knew it was true. “No.”
“No?” Hyera dug her fingers past the fabric.
“Hyera, no-!” Minjae shouted at once as she felt her fingers graze her folds, her opening.
“You’re so hot and wet for me,” Hyera muttered into Minjae’s ear. “Are you sure you don’t want me to lick you, Minjae? Has Kang Yuna not been fucking you well enough?”
“Hyera, I mean it-!” Minjae tried to push Hyera off of her again, her heart so desperately pounding in her chest. She hated this. She hated that she was so easily overpowered. That no matter how well her life was going, there was always someone stronger than her, more powerful than her.
Hyera’s fingers pushed inside and Minjae let out an involuntary moan.
“That’s a good girl.” Hyera praised and Minjae felt a shiver go down her spine.
Hyera’s fingers filled her up, reaching inside and exploring her. Minjae felt her knees go weak and she leaned against Hyera.
“You know this is what you came for,” Hyera continued, her fingers curling. “You came here to be fucked, right, Minjae?”
“N-no-! Ha-! Hyera-!” Minjae whined as the numbness began, slow and steady. Hyera was massaging her g spot at a soft pace. Minjae pressed her fingers into Hyera’s arms, trying not to moan, but trying to fight back, to push against Hyera.
“No?” Hyera scoffed. “But I’m fucking you now, aren’t I? I’m going to make you cum. Tell me how many times, Minjae. I’ll make it happen.”
“Ha-! No-!” Minjae’s knees were shaking. She was about to cum at any moment but she couldn’t move. She couldn’t find the strength.
“Three times?” Hyera offered. “Or maybe ten? I’d bet you’d like that, wouldn’t you, Minjae? A slut like you needs to cum ten times.”
Tears were forming in Minjae’s eyes as she felt herself climax. She held her voice, unwilling to give Hyera the satisfaction of her moans.
“Don’t fight it,” Hyera cupped Minaje’s chin, lifting her gaze to meet hers. Her eyes were soft, yet narrowed. She was smirking like she had won. “Let me hear your lovely voice as you cum.”
Minjae shook her head, closing her eyes. The tears rolled down her cheek.
“Moan for me, Minjae,” Hyera’s palm rubbed against Minjae’s clit and the added pressure was too intense. Minjae gritted her teeth. “I want to hear you.”
It was too much. Minjae’s lips parted as she came, her core filled with bliss she hadn’t felt in ages. Even more so than her last encounter with Hyera, who had overpowered her last time, too. She held in her voice, but it was so hard. Minaje wanted to cry out, to push Hyera away, to save herself the indignity of giving in, of allowing Hyera to touch her.
“I won’t stop,” Hyera said as she pushed Minjae harder into the counter. She ramped up her pace, and at once, Minjae covered her own mouth to stifle a moan. Hyera grabbed her wrist with her spare hand with a tight grip. “Until I hear you.”
Panting, Minjae closed her eyes tightly. She couldn’t give Hyera this. She couldn’t give her what she wanted.
She had to stop this but Minjae was a victim to her own body, once more.
It felt too good.
Hyera finally pulled her drenched fingers from Minjae, but pulled down her shorts in a swift motion. Minjae gasped and before she could do anything, Hyera spun her around and bent her over the counter.
“You want to play hard to get, Minjae, then I’ll play your game,” Hyera said with an edge. “And then we’ll see if you really want to leave my side.”
“Hyera-!” Minjae cried out as Hyera grabbed her arms and pinned them against her lower back. “Let go-!”
“Kang Yuna can’t fuck you like you deserve Minjae. I have to remind you of that.” Hyera said as she pushed three fingers inside of Minjae. Minjae groaned, unable to hold back now. “And you won’t be able to hold in your voice like this.”
Hyera was right. As she rammed her fingers in and out of Minjae, all Minjae could do was cry out. She cried out loudly, her core aching with pleasure. Intense, like a fire, spurring Minjae on. She tried to wriggle free of Hyera’s grip but it was useless. Her grip was like iron across her wrists, her pace fast and hard, making Minjae’s hips buck with her rhythm.
The tears were rolling down her cheeks, pouring out of her. She wasn’t even sure if she would cum, but her head was a haze, her heart threatening to explode in her chest. Minjae’s voice was loud and clear, moaning as her thighs became slick from her pleasure.
“Good girl,” Hyera praised. “Moan for your master.”
“Ha-!” Minjae let out a sob. She hated it. She hated it. She hated it. How could Hyera still make her cry, make her cum, bend her to her will? How could Minjae give in, every single time? Would she ever be free?
“This is where you belong, Minjae,” Hyera continued. She stopped long enough to slip in another finger. Minjae groaned- it was too tight. She could feel herself stretching and she lifted her hips. “You belong just like this, under me, obeying me.”
“Ha-! Hyera-!” Minjae cried out. “It’s too much-!” Stop-!”
Hyera continued her unrelenting, punishing pace.
“I’ll forgive you, Minjae, for your temper tantrum,” Hyera leaned over Minjae’s half naked body. “For leaving me and causing me so many problems.”
“Ha-!” Minjae sobbed. “It’s too much-!”
“You can take it.”
“No-!”
Hyera pressed herself against Minjae, adding her weight on Minjae’s back.
“Cum for me, Minjae,” Hyera muttered into Minjae’s ear. “Cum for me and all will be forgiven.”
“No-!”
Suddenly, Hyera let go of Minjae’s wrists and reached around to rub her clit. It was so sudden, Minjae didn’t expect it. She cried out so loudly as she came. The added pressure, the added stimulation, was too much. Minjae sobbed, her body shaking from the tears, from the orgasm. Her entire body was hot, aching with bliss. Minjae waited for Hyera to pull away, but she continued, rubbing her clit in hard, tight circles, her fingers inside of her pushing in and out.
“Good slave,” Hyera praised her once more. She slowed down her pace. “You’re forgiven.”
Hyera finally let go of Minjae, stepping away from her. Minjae felt herself go weak, her sex throbbing and sore with pleasure. She sank to her knees, on the kitchen floor. Shame was filling her. Shame and guilt. She closed her eyes tightly, the tears not stopping. How could it all happen again?
Was she losing herself again?
When Minjae heard the tape come off of the box, she opened her eyes. Hyera had opened the box and pulled out the red leather collar.
Her heart stopped.
Hyera approached her, then offered her the collar.
“Put it on, slave.” Hyera commanded with a smirk. “And let’s go to bed. I’m not done with you yet.”
Minjae stared at Hyera’s hand on the leather collar.
Property of Oh Hyera
Minjae closed her eyes, trying to stop herself from crying.
“No,” Minjae muttered. “No, I’m not yours.”
“Minjae, think about your words. Think very carefully.” Hyera warned sharply.
“I said no!” Minjae cried out. She raised her hand and pushed away the collar. “You . . . You can do whatever you want. . . My answer won’t change!”
The condo was silent. Minjae dared to look up at Hyera, who was glaring down at her.
“Kang Yuna has turned you against me, hasn’t she?” Hyera knelt down and cupped Minjae’s chin with force she wasn’t expecting. She gasped out. “Since when were you so bold to defy me?”
“I . . . I’m not yours. I can’t be. I won’t ever be . . .” Minjae tried to form her words, tried to gather her thoughts. Her heart was pounding so hard in her chest, threatening to burst and every possibility was racing in her mind. How could she escape? How could she leave? Was it even possible? “Not again.”
Hyera’s frown grew deeper, making her lovely features ugly now. “You made me a promise, Cho Minjae and I’m never letting you go.”
“It’s over, Hyera,” Minjae grabbed Hyera’s wrist but Hyera only tightened her grip. “Let me go.”
“I’m not going to,” Hyera leaned in. “I told you, you’re mine. You promised yourself to me and this game ends now. No more Yuna, no more anyone else. Just you and me, Minjae.”
Minjae tried to move away as Hyera pressed her mouth to hers, she tried to push her away, she tried to cry out but in a fast movement of limbs and weight pressing down, Minjae found herself on the kitchen floor, with Hyera on top of her, kissing her hard and fast. As Minjae tried to push her away, Hyera pinned Minjae’s wrists to the cold kitchen floor tiling.
As Minjae struggled, there was a noise.
Footsteps.
Many footsteps.
Many heavy footsteps.
The door burst open and Hyera moved away quickly.
There were two police officers and Kang Yuna not too far behind.
*
Yuna knew something was amiss the moment she heard the door close.
At first, Yuna laid in bed, waiting. She waited to hear if it was Minjae, if it was just her imagination. She slipped in and out of sleep- she had been craving sleeping in her own bed all day. The meetings she had to endure were long and uninteresting. Then, Yuna rolled over to lay her arm over Minjae, but found no one there.
Then Yuna got up at once.
Yuna headed into the kitchen and opened the lights. Minjae wasn’t in the bathroom. She wasn’t outside. She wasn’t in the living room.
The cardboard box wasn’t in the living room, either.
Yuna’s heart sank at once.
Had Minjae decided to return the box on her own? Yuna couldn’t understand- why would Minjae do such a thing? After everything Hyera had put her through, after making plans to go with Yuna to meet up with Hyera safely?
Or was Minjae returning to Hyera’s side after all?
Tears formed in Yuna’s eyes at the thought of it.
No, there was no way. Yuna refused to believe it. Minjae was recovering. She was growing happier, she had friends, she had her family. Minjae had her, after all. Why would Minjae give it all up for Hyera and her terrible treatment?
Yuna thought of Minjae, crouched in the backyard, sobbing because of Hyera. She thought of Minjae, held captive by Hyera in Yuna’s kitchen, her bottom half exposed. She thought of how miserable Minjae looked in that silk robe and red leather collar that day, when Yuna picked her up. How she didn’t have any clothes to wear. How skinny she looked. How tired and pale she looked.
No. No, Minjae wouldn’t return to that. Yuna wouldn’t let her. She’d fight for her.
Yuna had regretted not fighting harder for Minjae five years ago, nearly five months ago in her office. She was going to fight now.
She grabbed her phone from the bedroom and dialled the emergency number.
Oh Hyera was in for a world of trouble.
*
The officers knocked, but entered regardless when they heard raised voices. Yuna’s heart was in the pit of her stomach. She hoped to see Minjae and Hyera in civilised conversation, but when she saw Hyera pining Minjae to the kitchen floor, kissing her, it took all of her strength not to intervene.
However, the officers’ presence was enough for Hyera to get off of Minjae. One of the officers took Hyera aside to ask for her side of the story while the other helped Minjae to her feet. Yuna hurried to her side, watching with a clenched heart as Minjae pulled up her shorts.
“Minjae, what are you doing here?” Yuna asked as she pulled Minjae into a tight hug.
Minjae clung to her- she was trembling. “I . . . I wanted to do this on my own.”
“Miss, I need to speak with the young lady.” The officer said, clearing his voice.
Yuna gave a final squeeze before letting go.
“Miss, what is your name? Do you need medical assistance?” The officer asked.
Minjae shook her head, pulling on her cardigan. “My name is Cho Minjae.”
“Please explain the situation, Miss Cho.” The Officer pulled out his notebook.
Minjae glanced at Yuna before beginning to explain. She told the officer how she wanted to resolve the break up on her own terms and that was when Hyera began to touch her.
“Do you want to press charges?” The officer asked when Minjae was finished.
Yuna held her breath.
Minjae shook her head. “No. No, I don’t.”
“Minjae, please-!” Yuna began but the other officer and Hyera had returned from their talk in the hallway.
When Yuna glanced over at Hyera, she was glaring at her. If looks could kill, Yuna would be dead. If there weren’t any officers, Yuna wondered if Hyera would hit her.
“If no charges are being pressed, then there’ll just be a report in both of your files.” One of the officers said after discussing the matter between them in private. “Is that understood?”
Minjae nodded but Hyera didn’t say a word. Her arms were crossed and she was looking away.
“It’s over Hyera. I told you this before. Minjae told you, too.” Yuna said as the officer gestured for Minjae and Yuna to leave the apartment. “Don’t bother us anymore.”
Hyera did not reply. She stood in her semi lit kitchen, staring across the table. The red leather collar was on the floor behind her.
Before they could leave, Minjae lingered.
“Goodbye, Oh Hyera.” Minjae said, her voice quiet, but clear.
Yuna watched as Hyera narrowed her eyes at Minjae.
“I never want to see you again, Cho Minjae,” Hyera replied darkly. “You’re useless to me.”
Yuna heard Minjae’s breath hitch. She was lingering, so Yuna took Minjae’s hand in hers.
“Only to you,” Minjae said at last. “But I’m not yours. Never again.”
Minjae squeezed Yuna’s hand and they left the condo together. As they walked down the hall, down to the elevator, Yuna heard an aggravated wail through the walls. Minjae squeezed her hand once more.
Notes:
Hi everyone!!!!
So, some news: the mystery fic rough draft is finished!!! And here comes the title reveal: Rose Dust
Its a fic about Hyera and the aftermath of this chapter on her life and how she tries to plot her revenge. Can she get the revenge she craves on Minjae and Yuna? Or will the people who are still in her circle be a detriment? Or will her past actions come to haunt her? Its a very steamy, very revenge and plotting schemes heavy fic- Will Hyera gaslight gatekeep girlboss too close to the sun???
Meanwhile, this chapter. I wanted Minjae and Hyera to have their 'final' confrontation alone, but at the same time, what stops a character like Hyera (Rose Dust proves she can hold a grudge like no tomorrow but I digress)? Then again, when I wrote this chapter, Rose Dust wasn't in the picture yet. In my mind, it finished here!!! Then again, I can't seem to let go of the Cherry Gold fics too easily.
There's one more chapter and the epilogue, so I'm torn between posting them all this weekend and starting the second volume of side stories next weekend or prolonging Midnight Ice a little longer, prolonging the sider stories while I edit Rose Dust. What do you guys think??
Anyway, enjoy the chapter and comments are always appreciated!!!
Chapter 55: Chapter Thirty Five: Where You Belong
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The officers dropped them off at Yuna’s. After thanking them profusely, Yuna and Minjae entered the apartment. Suddenly, Yuna felt exhausted, but she didn’t want to sleep. Not yet.
“Do you want some tea?” Yuna asked.
Minjae nodded. She sat at the kitchen table, with tears in her eyes.
Yuna began the kettle.
“I had to do it on my own, Yuna.” Minjae began.
“I understand that, Minjae.” Yuna sighed, turning around. “But that was so dangerous.”
Minjae lowered her eyes. “I needed to tell her myself that it was over.”
“And she hurt you.” Yuna added.
“I know.” Minjae hugged herself. “But I had to do it. I had to do it on my own.”
Yuna let out a sigh. “I know, I know. You’re brave, Minjae.”
“I don’t know about brave.” Minjae scoffed. “But it’s over. I think it’s over now.”
Yuna rounded the table and sat in the chair next to Minjae’s. She took her hand in hers, holding it tightly. Yuna pressed her lips to Minjae’s knuckles.
“It’s over.” Yuna muttered, their eyes meeting. Minaje was blushing. “And now we can focus on us.”
Minjae smiled. “On us.”
Yuna watched as Minjae leaned in first, her eyes fluttering close as she did. Yuna cupped her face and kissed her. In her chest, she could feel her heart blooming. Minjae leaned in, parting her lips. Yuna mirrored her, pushing her tongue inside. Minjae’s tiny moan was enough for Yuna. She flicked her tongue against Minjae’s, her desperation growing.
She had waited so long for this.
“Yuna. . .” Minjae moaned quietly.
“Yes?” Yuna replied, kissing her before she could even reply. Minjae hummed, opening her mouth, leaning into Yuna, her hand squeezing Yuna’s, the other grasping at Yuna’s shoulder.
Yuna could kiss her all day. Her belly ached with a desperate need- Yuna wasn’t satisfied with just touching herself, thinking of Minjae, she needed her. She needed her right now. Yuna poured that need into her kiss, hoping for a reciprocation of sorts, and Minjae smiled into their kiss.
“Maybe we should skip the tea,” Yuna muttered, finally pulling away.
Minjae nodded.
Letting the kettle boil on its own, Yuna took Minjae by the hand and led her to the bedroom.
*
When the door closed, Yuna pulled Minjae into another kiss. A hot, breath- stealing kiss that made Minjae weak in the knees.
“Are you sure?” Yuna asked, pulling away to kiss her neck. “We don’t have to.”
There was a need between her legs that had blossomed when Yuna had kissed her. Even after what had happened earlier that night, Minjae was ready. She was sure.
Minjae nodded. “I need you, Yuna. I want you so much.”
Yuna smiled, biting her bottom lip. “Me too.”
Yuna undressed Minjae first- slipping off the large knit cardigan off of her shoulders, lifting the thin t-shirt over Minjae’s head. Slow and steady. Yuna was taking her time. Minjae stepped out of her shorts and panties when Yuna pulled them down. Yuna drew Minjae into a kiss, unhooking her bra as she did. It came off and Yuna pulled away to admire her.
Blushing, Minjae did the same to Yuna- lifting her shirt to reveal that Yuna had crossed the city in her pyjamas, no bra or anything under her clothes.
“I was in a hurry,” Yuna chuckled once she was naked. Minjae couldn’t help but laugh, too.
They fell into each other’s arms once more, kissing harder now that there was nothing between them. Minjae moaned, feeling the warmth of Yuna’s body against her, her soft skin and the taught muscle underneath. Yuna led her to the bed, gently pushing her down, then climbing on top of her.
“Is this okay?” Yuna asked, cupping Minjae’s face.
“It’s perfect.” Minjae replied.
Yuna kept kissing her and Minjae parted her legs, pulling Yuna closer and closer.
A part of her wanted this all along. Minjae wanted Yuna, but now she knew how badly. She had been holding back, too focussed on where her heart truly lay. She had needed to be shown, she had needed the time to truly realise that this was what she wanted.
Yuna laid on her side and Minjae did as well. Minjae couldn’t stop kissing her- she wanted Yuna to be touching her at all times, to be connected to her. She needed to make up for lost time. She needed to show Yuna how much she missed her. Missed this. Yuna’s hand ran along Minjae’s body- from her knee, to behind her thigh, the curves of her ass and the softness of her lower belly.
Minjae held her breath as Yuna’s fingers brushed up her abdomen, up to her breasts. She watched as Yuna cupped her breasts with both hands, her thumbs running against her tightened nipples. With just a simple touch, Minjae moaned, her sex aching for more.
“I missed this,” Yuna muttered before leaning in and capturing one of her nipples with her lips and teeth.
Minjae couldn’t even respond. She cried out, pleasure filling her. Yuna led her onto her back once more, climbing between her legs. When Yuna returned the favour to the other nipple, Minjae cried out again, arching her back. It was addicting. It was exhilarating.
But as Yuna kissed the length of Minjae’s torso, her belly, Minjae watched with half lidded eyes. Yuna bit into her soft thigh, near her pussy and Minjae moaned loudly.
“Are you ready, Minjae?” Yuna asked, parting Minjae’s legs widely. “I can stop, if you want.”
Minjae shook her head. “Please, Yuna, please.”
“Please?” Yuna repeated.
“Make love to me, Yuna.” Minjae pleaded. She didn’t want to be fucked or dominated. Not right now. Not after everything. She wanted gentle. She wanted more than what Hyera could ever give her. And it was only Yuna who could give her this. “Be gentle with me.”
Yuna smiled. “Don’t worry, I will.”
Yuna leaned in, pressing her tongue along the length of Minjae’s opening. The softness of her touch made Minjae shudder. As Yuna’s tongue pushed past her folds, slipping inside, Minjae moaned softly, arching her back. The pressure of her mouth against her, the dizzying arousal and the exhaustion drove Minjae wild. She let out a louder moan, feeling Yuna’s fingers press into her thighs, feeling her hum against her.
Minjae rolled her hips as Yuna moved onto her clit, sucking it gently at first, then with more pressure. Minjae bucked her hips, wild for more. Yuna responded wordlessly, slipping in two fingers.
It was nearly instantaneous. Minjae let out a half sob, covering her mouth with one hand as another found Yuna’s hair between her thighs. Yuna upped her pace and Minjae cried out, her core filling with an intense numbness she hadn’t felt in ages. She hoped Yuna would never stop. She hoped she could stay in this position forever. She could feel her wetness seeping out of her, warm against her, her eyes filling with tears as she came.
Yuna wasn’t relenting. Not yet, anyway. Minjae was crying out, riding out the immense pleasure Yuna was giving her, rolling her hips as fast as she could. Her voice would grow hoarse, she was sure of it. Minjae didn’t care. Yuna withdrew her fingers only to replace them with her mouth. She licked her up, lapping up the wetness, at the swollen, sensitive folds. Minjae shuddered, panting heavily now.
Daring to look down, Minjae was met with Yuna’s eyes, fixed on her. Her heart clenched watching Yuna lick her, her gaze intense with lust. However, it wasn’t long until Yuna sat up and slipped in two fingers.
“Yuna-!” Minjae cried out as Yuna rammed her fingers in and out.
“How’s that?” Yuna asked, leaning over Minjae and capturing her lips.
She could taste herself but Minjae didn’t mind. Yuna’s kiss was sweet regardless. She clung onto her, holding her close and tightly. Her head was a hurricane of pleasure and she hitched her knee over Yuna’s shoulder.
“You want that?” Yuna asked.
Minjae nodded, unable to speak. She was moaning too much to speak. She was wordless.
Yuna turned Minjae’s hips to the side and plunged her fingers even deeper. Minjae cried out, her core numbing once more.
“I thought you wanted gentle?” Yuna teased.
Minjae let out a sob now as Yuna’s other hand found her clit, rubbing hard and tight circles once more. Minjae bucked her hips, cumming at once. She was spilling over her own thigh, onto the sheets below her. She couldn’t help herself. Yuna leaned down and kissed Minjae, slowly releasing her from her orgasm.
Watching Yuna straddle her, Minjae panted with her shoulders square against the mattress. Her head was buzzing and her core throbbed with pleasure. She wanted more. She needed more. Yuna was too good. Yuna never forgot how to make love to her.
Yuna grabbed Minjae’s right hand and then lifted her hips.
“Ready?” Yuna asked and Minjae nodded. She pushed her fingers inside of Yuna- Yuna was so wet and her pussy tight. She moaned when she felt Yuna clench down on her, as Yuna bounced on her fingers. “Ha-! Ha-! Minjae-!”
She watched as Yuna rode her fingers, head tossed back and her breasts bobbing every time she slammed her hips down on Minjae. Minjae couldn’t help but admire Yuna’s beauty. She had been watching her, from afar, all of this time, hoping to be close to her, yet too preoccupied with her own thoughts to even dare.
Now she dared to touch her, to return Yuna’s affections. Minjae reached up with her other hand and began to rub Yuna’s clit. She rubbed as hard as Yuna had to her, and watching as Yuna moaned loudly, her thighs trembling and as she spilled her arousal over Minjae’s lower belly only dove Minjae wild with lust.
She needed more of this. She wanted to make Yuna cum every day.
Yuna was crying out, bouncing hard. Minjae only stopped her to slip in a third finger. Yuna cried again, her voice so desperate and loud.
“Fuck!” Yuna shouted out, her breaths becoming short and pronounced. “Yes-!”
Minjae wished she could kiss Yuna right now. Kiss her hard and fast and like she deserved. She wanted Yuna to have everything- all of the pleasure she deserved. All of Minjae’s attention.
However, Yuna had enough. She slowed down her rhythm, savouring the last few pumps before pulling Minjae’s fingers away.
“Are you ready, Minjae?” Yuna asked as she positioned herself.
Minjae nodded as Yuna slotted her pelvis against Minjae’s. Yuna held onto Minjae’s thigh, close to her chest. As Yuna’s grounded herself against Minjae, their sensitive, swollen sexes against each other, Minjae moaned, arching her back.
Feeling Yuna use her for fucking was hotter, better than Minjae’s own pleasure. She wouldn’t help but watch as Yuna threw back her head, her curtain of midnight black hair shimmering in the darkness. Her own arousal was unquenchable now, unbearable.
“Ha- Minjae, let’s . . . Let’s try something else, huh?” Yuna offered, climbing off of her.
“A-anything,” Minjae responded.
“Lay on your side,” Yuna told her and Minjae did as she was told.
Yuna laid next to Minjae, but in the opposite direction. Minjae watched as Yuna pressed her mouth between Minjae’s legs, her mouth working hard against her opening.
“Ha-!” Minjae cried out, almost forgetting what she needed to do as well. She pulled Yuna’s legs closer to her, tentatively licking up Yuna’s soaking wet pussy. Yuna cried out immediately, then began to hum as she resumed her licking as well.
It was hard to moan and lick at the same time, but Minjae tried her best. Yuna tasted so good- she was so responsive, her hips rolling slightly with every lap of Minjae’s tongue. Minjae didn’t ever want to stop. She could lick her all night, if Yuna let her.
But Yuna’s mouth was too skilled. She slid in her fingers, somehow, as she sucked on Minjae’s clit. Focusing was impossible when another orgasm was numbing her core, her entire body. She was trembling, trying to lick up Yuna but she was struggling. She wanted to moan, to cry, but kept her mouth planted on Yuna’s clit.
To Minjae’s surprise, Yuna pulled away her hips and Minjae cried out, louder than before.
“Yuna-!” Minjae sobbed as another orgasm ravaged her body. She was trembling now, grasping at the mussed up bed sheets beneath her, her hips rolling with Yuna’s rhythm. Tears were forming and then falling faster than Minjae could dare to reach up to wipe them, to stifle her screams of intense pleasure. “Yuna-!”
Yuna finally stopped when Minjae tapped her shoulder, leaving her breathless and beyond satisfied. Minjae was drained and very slowly, sleep was claiming her. Yuna freshened up first, then helped Minjae to her feet. Minjae freshened up, too, then found Yuna in the bedroom, stripping the bed of its sheets.
Together, they replaced the wet sheets with new, clean ones, then settled into bed. Yuna pulled Minjae into her arms, still naked.
“I love you,” Yuna muttered into Minjae’s hair.
Minjae glanced up, her eyes half lidded and the events of the past few hours catching up to her. It wasn’t just the hum of arousal, of satisfaction that compelled her to caress Yuna’s face and drew her into another deep, sensual kiss.
“I love you, too, Yuna.” Minjae replied, her eyes on Yuna’s.
Yuna smiled and held Minjae closer, tighter.
It was because she really did love her. Minjae loved Yuna and even if it took her so long to realise it, she wasn’t going to waste any more time. She was going to say it every single day. She was going to declare it to Yuna with every kiss, every action.
“I love you . . . I love you . . . I love you . . .” Minjae muttered, her eyes fluttering closed.
She found where she belonged.
At last.
Notes:
Hey everyone!! So here's a nice spicy chapter with Minjae and Yuna!! It's a bit of a shame that their only full length sex scene is also the final one. However, there's more to come!!! Stay tuned!!
Chapter 56: EPILOGUE// ONE YEAR LATER
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The sun filled the bedroom with light and Minjae rolled over to find that Yuna was awake already.
“You’re up, sleeping beauty.” Yuna teased, leaning over her to kiss her.
“How could I not sleep in?” Minjae asked as she stretched her arms over her head. The thin sheet shifted, revealing her breasts.
“How could I not make love to you all night?” Yuna chuckled, poking Minjae’s still hardened nipple with her finger.
“Ha!” Minjae covered herself up and rolled over. “Yuna, you’re so mean!”
“So, any plans for today?” Yuna asked, moving closer to Minjae, sliding her hips against Minjae’s ass.
“Does every day of your vacation need to be planned out?” Minjae asked, jutting out her bottom more. “Why can’t we relax?”
“Because,” Yuna muttered into Minjae’s ear, her hand sliding over Minjae’s hip and towards where her thighs were pressed together. “If we stay in bed, I’ll lick you up and waste the day here.”
Minjae parted her thighs and Yuna immediately pressed the pads of her fingers to Minjae’s clit.
“That doesn’t sound too bad.” Minjae moaned, turning to face Yuna.
“We have a whole week left and I want to spend it by the ocean.” Yuna leaned into Minjae’s ear, nibbling her earlobe, pushing her fingers downwards until she found the familiar warmth of Minjae’s pussy.
“Then why are you fingering me?” Minjae arched her back, letting out a louder moan.
“Because I can’t get enough of you, Minjae,” Yuna kissed her, soft and deeply. Minjae pulled Yuna closer. “And I want to fuck you.”
“Hmm,” Minjae opened her eyes and smirked. “Aren’t we meeting Kim Minji and Yang Kyerin today?”
Yuna curled her fingers. “At dinner.”
Minjae opened her legs wider. “Ha-!”
“They can wait.” Yuna sat between Minjae’s legs, admiring her beautiful girlfriend. Her long red hair fanned around her head, her thighs so wonderfully open for her, revealing her pussy. Yuna leaned down and ran her tongue across Minjae’s clit.
“But we’re hosting-!” Minjae’s breath hitched at once.
“So?” Yuna began to suck Minjae’s clit and it quietened them both. Or at least, it stopped Minjae from talking. She moaned loudly, as she always did. Her voice so sweet and lovely, filling the room.
Good thing they lived in a half empty condominium building. Yuna never had to worry about fucking Minjae so hard that the neighbours could hear.
Minjae cried out, cumming hard and fast. No matter how many times they fucked, no matter how often, Yuna undid Minjae so expertly every single time. Despite their hardships, despite the time apart and together, it was like the first time, every time. When Yuna pulled away, smirking at how well she had undid Minjae, Minjae could only grin up at her, her heart racing like crazy.
“I think I have a phone call today,” Minjae said later, once they forced themselves out of bed and into the shower. Minjae washed herself up and took time to dry her hair with a hair dryer. “My editor is going to be on my ass if she knew I was taking an unofficial vacation.”
Yuna laughed, emerging from the shower. “I think Mrs Noh will understand.”
Minjae pouted. “I’m on a deadline!”
“You said it yourself, Minjae. We have a dinner to host tonight.” Yuna wrapped a towel around her curves and then kissed the top of Minjae’s head. “And I know you’ll meet the deadline.”
“You can’t distract me!” Minjae warned.
Yuna chuckled. “I’ll try not to.”
*
It took the rest of the day to clean up the condo after Minjae was mildly scolded by her editor. Since moving in a few months ago, Minjae had tried to make the condo less like a glorified hotel room and more of a home. She redecorated with photos of herself and Yuna, with photos of them with their friends and family. Even Yuna’s family came to visit last week. Minjae couldn’t believe how much Yuna resembled her parents. Next week would be Minjae’s mother’s turn to visit.
When the cleaning was done, Minjae sent Yuna to the market to pick up the fresh ingredients for the dinner. Yuna had suggested that they invite Minji and Han Jihoon (they had gotten together last fall after reconnecting over social media) and Yang Kyerin and Na Juyeon, who made a point to befriend them when Yuna brought Minjae to her shop a few times.
Minjae prepared a large selection of side dishes- alongside the rice, a hearty kimchi stew (made with her mother’s kimchi), there was bulgogi, dumplings, bean sprouts, seasoned spinach, braised potatoes, and stir fried eggplants.
Once Yuna came back with more bottles of soju than Minjae thought was possible, it wasn’t long before Minji and Jihoon arrived. They brought a box of rice cakes.
Both Minjae and Yuna hardly knew Han Jihoon but felt obliged to invite him since Kyerin was bringing her girlfriend. If anything, Minjae decided he was nice enough and seemed too demure to make a presence for himself. Minji did enough talking for the both of them. Since moving to the seaside, they had less occasion to visit Minji, who moved in with Jihoon not too long ago. Minji went on and on about her promotion at the job and rejected Yuna’s offer of a glass of soju to celebrate.
“I’m afraid I can’t!” Minji held her belly, which was still quite flat. “I’m eating for two!”
Minjae covered her mouth and gasped. Yuna herself looked quite shaken.
“You’re pregnant??” Yuna exclaimed.
Minji nodded and Jihoon blushed furiously. “Yup! We’re getting married before the due date!”
“When are you due?” Minjae asked as Yuna scooped Minji into a tight hug.
“March-! Yuna!” Minji laughed.
“Be gentle with her,” Jihoon said quietly.
“Be gentle with who??”
The door opened, revealing Yang Kyerin and her tall, blonde girlfriend, Na Juyeon. Minjae was always surprised to see how tall Juyeon was, especially since Kyerin was as tiny as her, if not smaller.
“Hmm?” Juyeon continued. “Well?”
“Minji is pregnant!” Yuna said and Kyerin clapped her hands together.
“Ah! Congrats!” Kyerin said, hurrying over to Minji’s side.
Minjae couldn’t remember how Kyerin and Minji became such fast friends. Minjae was sure it was enough accidental meet ups and then the double dates and their upbeat, full of life attitudes that brought them together.
“And you love birds?” Juyeon elbowed Yuna playfully. “Any news for us?”
“Well, we’re not expecting,” Minjae replied.
“Although we’ve been trying,” Yuna added with a smirk.
“Yuna!” Minjae blushed.
Eventually, they moved to the dining room and Minjae served the meal. Yuna helped with the plates, and the cutlery. Luckily, they had some soda for Minji in the fridge. Jihoon had juice, too, out of solidarity.
“Tell us how you two met again!” Minji insisted. “I love your love story so much!”
Kyerin glanced up at Juyeon, who was still eagerly eating when most of them were taking their time.
“We met at our university’s school play for the mid autumn festival.” Kyerin replied. “And it was love at first sight!”
Juyeon nodded with her mouth full.
“It was so romantic, I can’t even tell you!” Kyerin added with a wink.
Juyeon raised an eyebrow, then nodded again.
Yuna chuckled into the back of her hand, then grabbed Minjae’s hand under the table.
“And we’ve been together ever since!” Kyerin replied.
“Sounds lovely,” Minjae replied. “Like from a drama.”
Kyerin smiled, blushing as well. Juyeon swallowed the food in her mouth and leaned her head against Kyerin.
“She’s bossy but I love her for it!” Juyeon said.
“Honey!” Kyerin scolded.
“Our story is a little less romantic,” Minjae admitted, realising out loud that maybe it wasn’t the best story to tell to a group of friends over the remains of dinner. There was too much conflict, too many messy feelings. “It would be difficult to tell so simply.”
“But those are the best kind!” Minji insisted. “I love messy stories!”
Kyerin and Juyeon nodded.
Minjae glanced at Yuna. “I supposed it would still be worth telling.” She said with a small smile.
“Shall I get the dessert?” Yuna offered.
With the group agreeing to move on to dessert, Minjae got up alongside Yuna.
“No, you can wait here, okay?” Yuna said.
Minjae tilted her head to the side. “You sure?”
Yuna nodded, smiling a smile that Minjae found a little odd. But Minjae didn’t say a word. She let Yuna disappear into the kitchen. When she glanced over at Minji, she noticed the same suspicious smirk.
“So, you’re writing again, Minjae?” Kyerin asked.
Minjae nodded. “Yes! I’m currently a writer for a travel website. I’ve been going to different cities almost every week, trying to finish my collection of essays before the summer is over!”
“Sounds like fun!” Minji replied.
“Next month, Yuna and I will go to Jeju Island for the final essay.” Minjae added. “I really need to focus on writing in the next few weeks so I can get it all done!”
Since writing again, Minjae couldn’t help but feel happier. It took some time before she landed the job that she currently has and the fact that the editors gave her such a large task as a newbie was intimidating. Minjae was determined to show the world what she was capable of.
“Here comes dessert,” Yuna announced.
As Minjae glanced over at Yuna, she watched as Yuna lowered the box of rice cakes on the table. No one took any. Before Minjae could urge everyone to dig in, Yuna rounded the table, missing her chair.
And then she got down on one knee.
Minjae’s heart began to race and her face became hot.
“Minjae,” Yuna began, pulling a light blue velvet box from her pocket of her slacks. They were so loose that Minjae would never have guessed she was hiding anything in them. “I know our love story is complicated. It isn’t neat or tidy, but that’s okay.”
“Yuna, what are you-?” Minjae began as Yuna opened the velvet box.
Inside were two silver bands. Each had a different colour stone- a pinkish gold on one, and a inky blue in the other. The stones were connected, almost like yin and yang, making one ring in the box. The stones glittered in the light of the dining room.
“It’s okay because I love you, Cho Minjae.” Yuna was smiling, tears building in her eyes. “I want to spend the rest of our lives like the past year- I want to travel with you, I want to wake up with you next to me. I want to eat every meal with you. I can’t imagine doing so with anyone else.”
Minjae covered her mouth, tears prickling her eyes.
“Will you marry me, Minjae?” Yuna asked, offering her hand.
Minjae slid her hand into Yuna’s and nodded.
“Yes! Yes! Of course!” Minjae replied at once. She was never so sure of anything in her life.
She watched through her tears as Yuna slid the ring with the pink gold stone onto her ring finger. It was the perfect size. It wasn’t flashy or huge, but it was perfect. Minjae took the other ring and did the same for Yuna.
Yuna scooped her up in a tight hug, kissing her at once. The other cheered and Minjae broke away, almost forgetting that they were there.
“Let’s toast to the future wives!” Minji shouted, grabbing her glass of soda.
Everyone refilled on soju, and raised their glasses to toast.
“To Cho Minjae and Kang Yuna! Happy marriage!” Minji declared loudly.
“To Cho Minjae and Kang Yuna!” The rest of them repeated. “Happy marriage!”
Minjae hid her face in Yuna’s neck, never happier to be so overwhelmed and in love.
*
Minji and Jihoon left the earliest- they had a hotel to return to nearby, and Minji was exhausted. Kyerin and Juyeon stayed for another round of drinks, then left within the hour. Minjae was sure she heard Juyeon wonder about if she ought to propose too, and Kyerin laughed it off.
Minjae turned to Yuna, smiling happily.
“I can't believe you surprised me like that.” MInjae said, sitting next to Yuna on the couch.
Yuna wrapped her arm around Minjae’s shoulder. “I’ve never been happier. I had to, Minjae. I just had to.”
Minjae leaned up and kissed Yuna. “I’m glad you did.”
“Good. I don't know what I would have done if you said no.” Yuna admitted with a chuckle.
“I wasn’t going to.” Minjae held out her left hand, admiring the ring. It glittered in the light, and it looked like it belonged there, on her hand.
Just like how she belonged by Yuna’s side.
“I love you, Yuna,” Minjae said with a sigh. “I’m so happy. I’m so glad you found me.”
Yuna kissed Minjae’s cheek. “I love you, too, Minjae. I’m very happy that you chose me.”
“How could I not?” Minjae replied.
How could she not? She glanced up at Yuna and kissed her lips, nice and slow. Her belly was full, and her head light from the soju. She hadn’t stopped smiling in hours.
How could she not smile? How could she not be happy?
Minjae found where she belonged.
THE END
Notes:
Hey everyone!! It's the epilogue!!
I know it was a pretty cheesy ending (with a western proposal) but it felt right. Minjae deserves happiness after everything she's been through! Yuna, too, should have a happy ending. They all should, really. Hyera, on the other hand . . . We'll see how things work out for her in Rose Dust.
Cherry Gold Side Stories Volume Two will start next Saturday, featuring five short stories involving Minjae and Yuna while they plan their marriage, go to a baby shower, adjust to living together and how some things never really change.
Rose Dust's prologue will be posted sometime during the run of the side stories, but I'm not sure when. I'm still working on that (and other things but I'm getting ahead of myself, again). The rest of Rose Dust will be posted on a weekly basis after the side stories.
I want to thank everyone again who commented, left kudos, who checked in every week as I posted Midnight Ice every week. I had second thoughts about a sequel series but it's really you guys that encouraged me to keep going. Minjae has grown very close to my heart and I hope she's won you guys over by now!
So once again, thank you so very much. I can't put into words how much I appreciate everyone who followed Minjae up to this point. I hope you'll stick around for her sexy adventures in the side stories and how she'll play a role in Rose Dust (the whole gang shows up for Rose Dust, it's not just Hyera and the OCs I came up with!!).
Comments are always appreciated!!! See you guys next week!!
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