Ara didn't sleep well that night. The memory of the balcony, Jae-min's sharp words, and Yura's taunting voice replayed endlessly in her mind.
You and Jae-min were together on the balcony.
It wasn't just a statement. It was a poisoned arrow, planted perfectly to make her doubt herself, her place, and even Jae-min's intentions.
The next morning, she arrived at the office earlier than usual, hoping the quiet would soothe her racing thoughts. But as soon as she stepped into the building, she saw Yura leaning casually against the hallway wall, her posture relaxed, her smile sharper than the sun outside.
"Good morning, Ara," Yura said, tilting her head. "I didn't expect to see you so early. I suppose you want to get ahead of everyone?"
Ara tried to smile. "I… just came in early."
Yura's eyes narrowed ever so slightly. "Of course. But Jae-min doesn't like surprises… especially emotional ones."
Ara froze. "What do you mean?"
Yura's smile widened, soft but filled with intent. "I just hope you realize… he might not feel the same way you do. After all, yesterday on the balcony, it looked like… you two were too comfortable."
Ara's stomach sank. Her hands trembled slightly. "That's… that's not true."
"Are you sure?" Yura leaned closer, her voice a whisper now, dangerous in its softness.
"Because he's told me before… he doesn't like women who get attached. And I know you've grown close… faster than expected."
Ara's breath caught. No. That can't be true.
Before she could respond, Jae-min appeared in the hallway. His presence immediately drew attention; everyone instinctively moved aside. His gaze, however, locked on Ara, cold and unreadable.
"Yura," he said, voice clipped. "Do you have something to say?"
Yura stepped back, keeping her smile. "Just making sure everyone knows the truth."
Jae-min's eyes flickered briefly to Ara. His jaw tightened. "Ara," he said, voice low, "don't read too much into what people say."
Ara opened her mouth to respond, but the words caught in her throat. Did he mean it? Or…
Yura gave a faint chuckle and walked past them. "Of course. I'm sure you'll handle it yourself, Jae-min."
Once she was gone, Ara's heart pounded, her face burning. She looked at him, searching for a hint of reassurance.
But Jae-min's expression was unreadable.
His eyes, dark and unreadable, made her question everything.
Was he angry at her? Or… disappointed?
The tension was unbearable. Ara wanted to run, to hide, to escape the confusing whirlpool of words, glances, and lies.
She didn't notice the small notebook Jae-min had dropped earlier on the floor—filled with notes, reminders, and… his personal thoughts about her.
And as she left the office that evening, unaware of what she had almost discovered, a single thought consumed her:
Maybe he never wanted me at all.