TOGETHER

The sharp ring of Hana's phone cut through the quiet of the early morning. She groaned, burying her face in the pillow, her fingers fumbling for the snooze button. Seven a.m. Already? How did time fly so fast?

"Hana! Hana! Are you still asleep? Aren't you going to the office today? Get up now, or you'll be late again! This is the second time this week!" Sarang's voice boomed through the phone, a mix of laughter and mock scolding.

"I... I'm getting up... just five more minutes," Hana mumbled, muffled by her pillow, sleep clinging to her like a warm, comforting blanket she didn't want to leave.

"No! There's no 'five more minutes.' Now!" Sarang insisted, leaving no room for argument.

Hana let out a long, reluctant yawn and finally pushed herself upright. "Fine... I'm awake. Did you really have nothing better to do than call me this early just because I might be late?"

Sarang chuckled softly, the sound warm enough to make Hana's lips curve into a small smile despite her grogginess. "But it's the weekend! You can't be stubborn every day of your life."

Hana shook her head, slipping out of bed. Thank God Sarang called... otherwise I'd have wasted half my morning in bed again.

By the time she reached the office, Hana's heart was still racing from the sudden wake-up, but she tried to steady herself. No sooner had she settled at her desk than her boss, Mrs. Park, called her over, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Yes, ma'am?" Hana asked, a hint of curiosity in her voice.

"Hana, I have something wonderful to tell you," Mrs. Park said, her smile widening. "The actor loved your script! He's agreed to do it! The shoot will be in three months, but... we thought we should celebrate today. And besides, the holidays start tomorrow!"

Hana's eyes widened, and a genuine smile broke across her face. "Wow... that's amazing! Thank you so much, ma'am!" She felt a rush of happiness that made her chest feel lighter than it had in weeks.

The office soon buzzed with cheerful chatter and laughter as her colleagues joined in the small celebration. Glasses clinked, stories were shared, and Hana allowed herself to relax for the first time in weeks. She let the joy of the moment wash over her, pushing away the weight of deadlines and stress.

By eleven, Hana returned home, her body tired but her heart full. She changed into her softest clothes, sank onto the sofa, and let out a long sigh, her mind replaying the day's happiness. Her phone buzzed again. It was Sarang.

"Guess what, Hana! Your holidays officially start today! And... there's a school reunion coming up. You have to come back soon and see everyone!"

Hana froze. Her heart skipped a beat—not with excitement, but with a tight, uneasy feeling she had buried for years. The past... I've tried so hard to forget it. Everyone hurt me... Why would I go back?

"I... I don't know, Sarang," Hana whispered, her voice trembling. "I've forgotten a lot about school, and... some of it hurts too much. I don't think I can face it."

There was a gentle pause on the other side. Then Sarang's voice returned, soft, patient, and warm. "Hana... I get it. But this isn't about facing pain. It's about reconnecting—with people who care, people who've missed you. You don't have to relive everything. Just... try to go. I'll be there, every step of the way."

Hana bit her lip, emotions swirling inside her—fear, hesitation, but also a flicker of hope she had long denied herself. Slowly, Sarang's words seeped into her heart. Maybe... maybe it won't be as terrible as I remember. Maybe I can face it... if she's with me.

"Okay," Hana whispered, barely audible, yet firm. "I... I'll go. But only if you're there."

"Yes!" Sarang's excitement bubbled through the phone, contagious and bright. "Don't worry. I'll take care of everything—the flight, your bags... you just get ready for some fun and memories!"

Hana exhaled slowly, a small, tentative smile forming. A mixture of nervousness and relief settled over her. For the first time in a long while, she felt a flicker of hope. Maybe revisiting the past wouldn't hurt as much as she feared.

That night, as Hana lay down to sleep, her mind wandered—reunion, Sarang's unwavering support, laughter, old friendships, and the delicate promise of new beginnings. With a deep breath, she closed her eyes, letting herself imagine the warmth of shared memories, the thrill of reconnection, and the small, courageous steps she was about to take.

to be continue..................