A Temporary Farewell
Through the window, the sky was a canvas of dark clouds, with a faint mist lingering in the air and a light drizzle tapping against the glass. Watching the raindrops, Hanbyeol Kim felt a sense of calm wash over her. It wasn’t exactly cozy, but it was a welcome change from the chaos of being chased by strange creatures after leaving the forest.
“Funny… I used to love rainy days as a kid.”
Hanbyeol had always found joy in walking through the rain with an umbrella, listening to music. It was a small happiness in an otherwise mundane life. She suddenly craved a hot cup of coffee, something to warm her up and help her forget everything, if only for a moment.
She gazed out at the world beyond the window, the gray shadows signaling the approach of evening. The day’s events had left her physically and mentally exhausted. Rubbing her sleepy eyes, she turned to survey the large room, about 20 pyeong in size, equipped with everything they needed—food, water, bedding, even a shower.
They had stumbled into the city while fleeing, and Hanbyeol had felt an odd sense of unease. The city was eerily quiet, as if abandoned. She had almost thought it was a ghost town. Yet, they had found a mid-sized building with a black-painted rooftop that seemed to call out to them. By some stroke of luck, it had everything they needed.
Despite her exhaustion, sleep was elusive. Ansol was still in a daze, and Hyun was busy taking care of her. As for Yujeong…
Following Yujeong’s trail, Hanbyeol found her easily. Yujeong was holding the knife Hanbyeol had left by the door. Hanbyeol sighed, understanding why Yujeong was acting this way.
“Unni.”
“Yeah?”
“Put the knife down.”
“No.”
Yujeong ignored her, unlocking the front door. The loud click startled Hyun, who rushed out of the room, frowning at the sight of the knife in Yujeong’s hand.
“It’s pointless. Put the knife down and wait quietly.”
Yujeong glared at Hanbyeol, her face full of frustration.
“Why?”
”…”
“I’m going to bring Suhyeon oppa back. You guys just wait here.”
Oppa. Suhyeon oppa. Hanbyeol repeated his name in her mind. From the first time she met Suhyeon, she felt they were kindred spirits. His calm demeanor, confident voice, and steady gaze had drawn her in. She had trusted his judgment on the hill. Hanbyeol looked at Yujeong and spoke again.
“You’re not the only one worried about him. But going out there won’t help. Waiting is the best way to help.”
“He might still be waiting there. If you’re not going, step aside. I’ll go get him.”
“Yujeong, Hanbyeol is right. Put the knife down.”
Hyun’s stern voice made Yujeong turn her head. She scoffed at both of them, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
“You’re all heartless. Suhyeon oppa might be searching for us everywhere.”
Heartless. The word stung everyone, but Hanbyeol wasn’t deterred. She glanced at Ansol, still unconscious, and spoke.
“We had no choice. Those things were attacking us. If it weren’t for her, we might all be dead.”
“Who doesn’t know that? We escaped and brought Sol here. Is that it? We’re safe, so it’s over? Oppa will find his way back?”
Yujeong’s mocking tone made Hanbyeol’s stomach churn. The shouting and informal speech grated on her nerves. She smirked, her voice cold.
“Then go. Go and search all you want. I won’t care if you die.”
The words slipped out before she could stop them. Hyun looked at her in shock, while Yujeong let out a hollow laugh.
“You… You’re really something. Did oppa sacrifice himself for someone like you? What a disappointment. Was your concern just an act?”
“I told him not to go. He insisted. Why blame me?”
“You… Never mind. You’re not worth talking to. Just shut up, you heartless witch.”
Hanbyeol was taken aback by Yujeong’s unexpected response. Being called trash hurt her pride deeply. She didn’t realize it, but her breathing had become more labored, her voice tinged with suppressed anger.
“That’s harsh. Did I say anything wrong?”
“I don’t care. I just don’t want to be fake like you.”
“Are you done?”
“Look at you, staring me down. What are you going to do? Pull my hair? Spare your pretty face and keep your mouth shut.”
“Enough, both of you!”
Hyun’s angry voice cut through their escalating argument. Both Yujeong and Hanbyeol fell silent, surprised by his outburst. Hyun glared at them before extending his hand to Yujeong.
“Give it to me.”
”…No.”
Yujeong clutched the knife tightly, and Hyun sighed, his voice softer.
“I’ll go find him. You’re right.”
”…Really? Then let’s go together.”
Yujeong’s face lit up, but Hyun shook his head.
“No. It’s easier alone. Those things might still be out there. You and Hanbyeol take care of Sol.”
“With her? No way. I can’t trust her anymore.”
Yujeong’s continued hostility made something snap inside Hanbyeol. She had held back long enough. But instead of raising her voice, her tone turned icy as she addressed Hyun.
“Don’t go. You’ll end up like him.”
“Shut your mouth.”
“You shut yours.”
“What? Say that again.”
Yujeong moved as if to strike, but Hyun quickly disarmed her. Yet Hanbyeol, now resolute, couldn’t stop the words from pouring out.
“Don’t act like you know everything. Without her, what do you think would have happened to us? You saw the knife and fists were useless. Why go when it’s certain death?”
“You bitch…”
“You’re swearing because you have no argument. Do you even know where he is? Use your head.”
“Nice excuse. Showing your true colors now? Thanks to oppa, we’re here, but you only think about yourself. You’re worse than that bastard.”
The comparison to a troublemaker made Hanbyeol’s face twist in anger. Her voice shook with rage.
“The dead are dead! What’s wrong with the living wanting to survive?”
Yujeong lunged at her, shoving Hyun aside. Hanbyeol braced herself, ready to retaliate.
The door swung open.
“What’s all the noise?”
A young man stepped inside, his calm face, confident voice, and steady gaze silencing the room. A crossbow was slung over his arm. Everyone froze, the tension evaporating as if it had never existed.
“I’m glad everyone is safe.”
With a gentle smile, he lowered the crossbow from his left arm and raised his right hand to greet everyone.
That man was none other than Kim Soo-hyun.
---------------------------= Author’s Note ---------------------------=