Not Just A Memory | Ko Kyung-jun

Twelve.

At that point, matters like inheritance and survivor benefits would be settled. 

Seven years. I wondered what my mother planned to do. 

Just as I hesitated over how to reply, another notification popped up. This time, from Kyung-jun. The father and son had texted almost simultaneously. 

[Do you want to meet in Busan or Seoul next break?] 

Honestly, I didn’t care which city—as long as it was with Kyung-jun. 

I replied, [Whatever’s convenient for you.] Then I paused. 

We had reunited. 

We had gotten close. 

We had confessed. 

It was probably mutual. 

But the words “let’s be together” were never spoken. So what are we? Exes? Boyfriend/girlfriend? Lovers? I had no idea. 

Next time, what face should I wear when facing Kyung-jun? What position should I take? 

“…If I say, ‘Let me be your girlfriend again’, who knows what’ll happen…” 

With a heavy sigh, I went back to work. 

.

“Oh, you’re back, Kyu-Kyun!!” 

“Save your breath.” 

“Why!!!!” 

I hadn’t even said anything. 

During practice last time, Kyung-jun left abruptly after spotting his ex. That became the hot topic, and amid the chatter, I slung an arm around Jun-hee’s shoulders, probing for answers to my lingering questions. 

“I can’t share details. But I think it’s good when two people who still love each other after a breakup can reunite.” 

“That’s Kyung-jun we’re talking about! He’d never admit it himself. What’s she like? Come on, Jun-hee~ Please~” 

“Rion—ssi, that’s not an easy question to answer.” 

Jun-hee was tight-lipped, so I doubted he’d reveal anything important. But after years of Kyung-jun persistently asking, “Have you seen her?” and “Tell me if you do,” now that she’d actually appeared, I was beyond curious. I just wanted to know who Kyung-jun loved. Maybe I was being nosy. 

“She’s… cheerful and cute.” 

“That’s a safe answer.” 

“What else do you want me to say? She’s good at pampering Kyung-jun, gentle and kind.” 

“Kyung-jun doesn’t seem the type to act spoiled. I wonder how he does it.” 

Jun-hee flinched slightly. 

“He’s extremely clingy. Sticks to her like glue. And growls at anyone who gets too close.” 

“Like a guard dog.” 

“Exactly.” 

It made me think—if a dog lost its owner, of course it’d search frantically. 

“They were a famous, well-liked couple in school. Seeing them together was heartwarming. If they get back together, I’d be happy too.” 

Jun-hee smiled warmly. 

From his expression, I could tell this was someone Kyung-jun truly cherished. 

And today, Kyung-jun returned from Eunpyeong with a healthy, glowing complexion.