AUTHOR'S NOTE: And here we go! Next updates are gonna come late in January since I'll be busy with family, but rest assured, I will not go on a random hiatus again. Again, Happy Holidays everyone~!

WARNING: This story contains crude language/humor, angst, adult themes, headcanons/fanons and heavy spoilers. Read at your own discretion.

DISCLAIMER: I don't own Mystic Messenger, credits to Cheritz. I only own the OCs that will appear in this story and my imagination.


CHAPTER 10

Clotheslined (Part 2)


Ah, right... that happened.

I can't believe I had been strung along that easily...

"Are you okay?" I nearly jumped, and I hid my surprise by flicking a questioning look towards the speaker's direction. Eugene had sidled up next to me, brows furrowed as she eyed me worriedly.

I only shrugged, happy with the new configurations I've set, and simply inclined my head towards her two friends, Jongmin (whom the cunning eggplant head had confirmed as her boyfriend, even if he was quote unquote 'not understanding of her convictions for the club'—all I could think of was that he's whipped), and Chaeyeon (who was as soft-spoken as she was skittish).

She remained staring at me for five more seconds before she seamlessly transitioned to a wide grin, satisfied with whatever it was she looking for, and she spun to face the other two who were perfectly content making small talk."Alright! Time... get... Meteor Study Club!"

There it was, the one label that got me to hide a grimace of epic proportions.

My memories of the game may be spotty, but if there was one thing I prided myself on, it was being able to commit things I wanted to in memory. Since I had began playing when game the save system could be abused, I spent a lot of time doing trial-and-error with the emails because I was the type of person who'll stubbornly keep playing on my own until I'm either too afraid for my sanity or outright stumped.

Each mistake I'd make would then mark something as I'd more than likely to be remember, and if there were strong emotions attached to it, then even more so. This girl... she was one of those whose first email I'd answered incorrectly because apparently she was a romantic kind of person, and unluckily for me I'd forgotten to save that time so I had to go through the chatroom again.

That said, there's really nothing much I could do, even if I'm hanging out with one of the potential guests for the RFA party.

Nothing at all.

No, I'm not panicking. In fact, I can't actually believe I'm taking this a little too calmly. Perhaps being exposed to high amounts of stress just left me desensitized now... or probably because I'm just about tired and ready to crash the moment I get back to the apartment. My arm was starting to act more of a unconventionally attached creaky lead contraption than an arm.

Wiping any smudges and moisture off of the lens with a tint of frustration, I then wordlessly settled in front of the bench which the two friends took as their cue to start posing. This was apparently a project for an upcoming event at their university, and the theme they're pushing for was 'Passion'. I had no doubts that their club leader, dear Eugene Lee over there, smugly observing the proceeding like she'd accurately predicted the lottery numbers that no one would question her awesomeness anymore, was so adamant to have her wish granted.

From the snippets of the many conversations between the trio, Eugene can be a bit... overtly obsessive about her love for the galaxies and any romantic connotations that can be attached.

But anyways, I didn't really have it in me to question what other people liked. If it made them happy and as long as it didn't harm them or anyone around them, then who was I to judge?

I couldn't tell how long I'd been shuffling from one spot to another to find an appropriate angle, but after one final snap that I was perfectly content taking, I eagerly stretched, a few joints cracking loudly.

"So, I'm done."

The nearest person, who happened to be Eugene, happily whooped for joy at my words. Her boyfriend, who looked like he was dead on his feet, practically collapsed spread eagle style back unto the bench with a loud sigh. Chaeyeon hovered over him with her hands raised as if she didn't know what to do. Their club leader flashed me a thumbs up before she eased closer to the two, and I smiled at the sight.

I suppose those past four hours were worth it...

Suddenly my stomach let out a growl, and I flushed at how unbearably loud that was that it caused the trio to stare at me.

The only guy of the group casually stood up, even if his face told that he wanted nothing more that to rest, garnering our attention. "Let's get some food. I'm starving."

I was grateful that nobody else commented on that, and Eugene gleefully lead the way towards a noodle restaurant two streets away. We filed into the place, batting away the blue-colored banners hanging by the sliding doors, and was pleasantly surprised that the restaurant wasn't as packed as I'd expected. There were booths at the sides, but the purple-haired girl hopped over to the bar seats, and we simply went with that since there was conveniently three more stools for the rest of us. From here, I could view the busily moving cook who swiveled around to greet us, middle-aged with a five-o-clock shadow, light tan, and a charismatic smile.

I'd already told them that anything worked for me, as long as it filled up the beast that kept on noisily roaring at me to feed it, and the ever-hyperactive eggplant head cited our orders to the cook.

Slumping a bit, I quietly watched as the two lovers chatted, and beside me, Chaeyeon tinkered with her phone. The background noise kept me company enough, and it would've been the perfect time for a chatroom to pop up, even if I'd rather deal with more socializing at a later juncture of my life.

Conveniently enough, my phone alerted me to such. Since I was sure that no one would try and peek over my shoulder, I'd momentarily turned off hidden mode, though I still had my phone muted.

Ame has entered the chatroom

Yoosung*: Thought I'd get caught earlier tbh.

Yoosung*: The prof was repeating the lesson from last week so I thought I could chat...

Yoosung*: or maybe doze off

Yoosung*: I played some rounds in LOLOL so I didn't get much sleep. ^^;

Jaehee Kang: You really should cut back on playing, Yoosung.

Jaehee Kang: That photo you posted last week

Jaehee Kang: had featured one of the deepest eyebags I'd seen in a while.

Yoosung*: ahaha sorry

Yoosung*: I am tryin to cut back tho!

Jaehee Kang: Did you even have a decent meal today?

Yoosung*: Erm... kind of?

A photo of a tray of cafeteria food in pitiful portions had the effect of making me cringe, because the food served back at my university had more to offer than that.

Jaehee Kang: That's...

Ame: That's just sad to look at.

Jaehee Kang: Hello, Ame.

Yoosung*: Hi Ame... well, it's 3300 won...

Yoosung*: Tasted so bad T_T

Yoosung*: I had to force myself to believe that it was healthy and just shoved it all in my mouth

Jaehee Kang: Since the school nutritionist plans the meal, I'm sure it's healthy.

Ame: Idk, those side dishes didn't look good.

Yoosung*: I know T_T

Yoosung*: It's good that the price didn't go up

Yoosung*: but the side dishes seem to be getting worse T_T

Yoosung*: Thankfully, someone I knew offered me bread and coffee later

Yoosung*: and tonight I get free food from a couple of friends~!

Yoosung*: So no need to worry about me haha ^^

Was that a whiff of fear I sense..? Nah, must be my imagination.

Ame: Right...

Ame: You, Jaehee?

Jaehee Kang: I had some takeout, per usual.

Jaehee Kang: I didn't really have time to go shopping after finishing up at work.

Ame: Or is it because you watched the musical...

Jaehee Kang: Not at all. ^^

Yoosung*: Speaking of work

Yoosung*: I'd never have thought Seven was THAT rich

Yoosung*: I kinda figured that his job was pretty okay

Yoosung*: but just, wow.

Yoosung*: Now we have two rich people in this chatroom...

Jumin Han has entered the chatroom

Yoosung*: It's a bittersweet day today T_T

Ame: Hi, Jumin.

Jumin Han: Good evening, Ame.

... The strange sense of relief washed over me, and I made it out as worry for the man. Maybe I'm just blowing things out of proportion, Jumin... will be fine.

Jaehee Kang: Hello, Mr. Han.

Yoosung*: Here's one of those rich people now

Yoosung*: Ah... just thinking about the differences tires me out.;;

Yoosung*: The mere fact that at best, I'd get a decent paying job and live my life in a cycle of work and sleep to earn money T_T

Jaehee Kang: It's... not as bad as it could be. ^^;;

Jumin Han: There are always opportunities for people who look for it.

Jumin Han: It's a matter of effort.

"도와 줘서 고마워."

I blinked, lowering my phone for a moment to look at the blonde coyly smiling at me. I immediately switched over to the translator app. "Sorry, what was that?"

Chaeyeon seemed to maintain a calm composure, but her subtly rubbing her hands under the counter was a sign of nervousness. "Thank you for your help, Lane. We... thought... never... finish," she said, though it was more of a whisper, motioning to the couple with a slight tilt of her head.

"It's nothing, really. Besides, you guys are buying me dinner," I replied, reflexively chewing at my lower lip. It... still feels weird to be called like that.

"You didn't... agree, but... still did," she argued.

It was odd to get a faceful of bright green eyes, natural ones at that, because those almond-shaped eyes and facial structure definitely did not remind me of your typical Korean native. Though Jongmin had brown hair and passed the criteria with his boy-next-door vibes, he had dark blue eyes with specks of green visible in the light. Does everyone in this universe have wacky color palettes, I wonder?

Chaeyeon's sudden movements pulled me out of my thoughts, and a large, steaming bowl of ramen was placed in front of me, five, thin slices of pork, two boiled eggs and finely chopped green onions sitting pretty atop the simmering noodles and broth that faintly smelled of ginger. I openly gaped at the food, because wow, that's a lot.

"Please enjoy," the cook said to me with pride coloring his voice, noticing my obvious awe.

"Oh yes, gimme." As soon as she muttered that, Eugene quickly devoured her noodles with much gusto. Her boyfriend ate at a more sedate pace with some mumbling, probably unfortunately used to her antics, and the blonde pulled at her chopsticks and grabbed some soy sauce before she ate.

Me on the other hand, I had a chatroom to progress through and leave as soon as I can.

Jumin Han: I have to admit, that photo has me curious.

Jumin Han: So that's what commoners in college eat.

Yoosung*: Yes, Mr. CEO.

Jumin Han: The dish looks very peculiar.

Jumin Han: I can see your tremendous will to put as many side dishes as you can on that one steel plate.

Jaehee Kang: -_-

Yoosung*: So you recognize how determined us commoners are, Mr. CEO born with a silver spoon? ^^

Ah, sarcasm. My favorite language.

Jumin Han: But that stainless steel plate looks very heat-conductive. You can get burned.

Yoosung*: We don't care about things like that.

Yoosung*: Besides, by the time I ate it, the soup's already cold. There's a low chance I'd get burned.

Ame: Lukewarm at best, right?

Yoosung*: Pretty much;;

Yoosung*: Not like that fancy steak dish Jumin ate...

Jaehee Kang: Just graduate as soon as you can and get a job.

Jaehee Kang: You get to eat over-priced cafeteria meals filled with MSG everyday.

Jaehee Kang: Of course, if you get busy, your local convenience store will become your best friend.

... I feel mortified to even think that I'd already married 7-11 from all those times I'd spent rushing around finishing assignments and such, despite returning to home-cooked meals. I'd tasted nearly every single pre-heatable meal they had...

Yoosung*: So

Yoosung*: basically a rehash of what I do on a possibly worser scale? T_T

Jaehee Kang: ...

He actually has a point, as sad as it may sound, I'd heard some people say that they'd rather go back to the days they were in school than be stuck working around the clock for what could be the majority of their days. But... that's part of life isn't it?

Yoosung*: Now I wonder if Seven's maid cooks for him too...

I tossed out the philosophical ramblings my head had conjured out, since the blond had reminded me of fragrant food to be eaten fervently. I just had to find the right moment... I stole a glance at the others, and the creeping sensation of jealousy at seeing them steadily progressing with their meals coursed through me like wildfire.

Ame: But wouldn't that be basically like having a mom?

Jaehee Kang: Yes;;

Jaehee Kang: I think a maid should only keep the house clean as the position requires.

Jaehee Kang: Doing more than what one is required to do is

Jaehee Kang: a pain I don't wish on anyone else... haha.

Jumin Han: I'll tell you one thing.

Jumin Han: Unless you hire a chef, food tastes all the same.

Jumin Han: A maid is not a chef.

Unless they tried experimenting, which I personally had done a few times since I did have the benefit of having a mom who found fun in buying herbs to... spice our meals up.

Yoosung*: Oh...

Jaehee Kang: ...

Ame: Huh.

Yoosung*: Yeah... okay lolol

Yoosung*: Chef. Wow.

Ame: Speaking of chefs, I do hate to cut this lovely chat short but I better go.

A devious grin broke through, brought by that last line, and hey, a little teasing couldn't hurt.

Ame: The chef's been staring at me for taking too long to dig in

Ame: Gotta eat ^^;

Yoosung*: Hold on, chef? O.o

Technically, cook. Also the truth, since the old man had been sneaking glances at me in the past two minutes, which I'd only seen by chance through my peripherals. I feel bad about it, since my initial reaction probably left an impression, and my food's gonna get cold at this rate. The hot air buffeting me from the kitchen begs to differ, but I digress. Ramen's best eaten piping hot.

Jaehee Kang: Anyways

Jaehee Kang: See you later, Ame ^^

Jumin Han: Eat well.

Ame: Laterz~

Ame has left the chatroom

Pocketing my phone, I grabbed my chopsticks and separated them, secretly fumbling with how I was holding it that I had to observe the others so I could properly adjust my handling. Still a little awkward, but I managed. Halfway into my meal, Jongmin cleared his throat.

"So, Lane..." Jongmin began. "Might... ask... contacts?"

Contact... ah, so we could talk over the pictures some more, since Chaeyeon had her laptop with her. Placing my utensils to the side so I could begin writing, I plucked a paper towel from one of the containers, a little disappointed that I'd forgotten to add some ripped paper with the pen I had. Briefly hesitating, but hoping that since they were university students that they understood English, I scrawled my email address down in a quick, neat handwriting and flipped the towel his way.

He snatched it easily, skimmed the contents for two seconds and uttered his thanks, sliding the paper into his breast pocket. "... email you... probably sometime tomorrow."

I simply nodded in response, glancing at their intrepid club leader slurping the soup loudly, which wasn't a bad thing since it was supposed to be a sign of immense appreciation for the food here.

As if sensing my gaze, she smiled at me while a noodle hanging from her mouth. I had to stifle my laughter when Jongmin aggressively poked her sides, telling her to watch her manners. The hyperactive girl tauntingly waved her chopsticks, daring him to do anything against her. The blonde remained silent at the exchange, more pre-occupied with munching at the meat at the moment though her body language was clearly discomfitted by their antics.

Eugene laughed when she got flicked on the nose, and cheerily resumed her eating.

... To think that this person, a background character, at best, had this much, well, character to her. Her friends too. It just sold the fact that this world was a lot more real than I could ever imagine it. And wasn't that a scary thought?

Hm, would it be bad if I added her as a guest now though, instead of having Yoosung introduce her in the chatroom (somewhere during the Casual Story timeline—I have to sort this all out some more)? I don't know, it's hard to tell right now, but I suppose I could entertain the idea if nothing's said later on.

I'm still waiting on V to make an appearance in the chatroom too...

Our dinner went on in relative calm compared to the rest of the day, since the purple-haired girl mellowed down after the meal. She looked sleepy, and in direct contrast, Jongmin's expression considerably lightened up from his customary tired one. I also hadn't noticed it, but Chaeyeon had a plastic bag of newly cooked ramen. She's probably hungry or decided to buy it for someone else, so I ignored it.

With the four of us well-fed, meals paid for, and photos copied over to the blonde's care, our group left the restaurant.

"Thank you really, Lane," Jongmin said to me once we had reached a crossroads, and I halted in my tracks to give him a look of 'stop, you've already told me a million times'.

Eugene giggled, and unlike her usual expression that had the hint of mischief, this was a lot more sincere. "Seriously, thank you so much!"

"Alright, alright, kiddies. I get it, it's really no problem," I said. "Anyways, you all head back home. It's pretty late."

The purple-haired girl airily waved at me. "Okay, see you Lane!"

The other two simply nodded their heads at me, and they walked off, disappearing into a corner and taking the amiable chatter and atmosphere with them.

Time to go back.

Just as I was about to hide my phone, a text popped up.

Jumin Han [19:41]

- I'm still rather curious about the sweet and salty rule you've mentioned.

Jumin Han [19:41]

- Are there any other rules like it?

Oh my. Hm, well I could pull a Seven and whip up something random to say, but I feel my inner food lover rearing its head.

Ame [19:43]

- In regards to the sweet and salty thing, it's a matter of personal preference as well.

Ame [19:43]

- Kind of like dipping your fries in vanilla ice cream.

Ame [19:44]

- As for other rules... I mean, sweet and sour's been a big thing for a while now?

Ame [19:44]

- Sweet and sour pork... some big brand snacks like Ringles and Lais.

Jumin Han [19:46]

- I see.

Jumin Han [19:46]

- I do remember having that pork dish once during a meeting. It had a unique flavor.

Ame [19:47]

- Well there u go haha ^^

Ame [19:48]

- I guess what really matters is the combination that makes your tongue go on an adventure like no other. It's taking risks to reach new heights of satisfaction, but also makes you crave for more.

Jumin Han [19:49]

- That is... one way to put it.

Jumin Han [19:50]

- This is all very interesting. You'll have to teach me some more in the future.

I blinked a few times, and then felt a blush creeping up my face. Oh God, talking about food always got me to go on weird soliloquys, and it's seriously embarrassing.

Ame [19:51]

- Haha we'll see

Since Jumin had decided not to reply, I'll spare you the boring bits of random thoughts I had as I jogged down the road and back to the apartment where wonderful explosive things that awaited me once I'm online again.

I really wanted to not care since I arrived, I had sought out my bed and slammed into it face-first, flinging my purchases at the nearest desk haphazardly. Sleep was calling my name.

... I jerked once my phone began singing its tune.

"... Hello," I mumbled drowsily.

"Oh... you picked up," Seven said, surprise clear in his voice.

"What do you think?" I grounded out grumpily. This pillow's a good friend... and I want to sink back into a blissful stress-free sleep, if you may.

"Yeesh, this is what I get for worrying when you'll get back to the apartment?" he grumbled in a convincingly hurt voice, and I rolled my eyes.

"Okay, okay, you've twisted my arm," I sat up, stretching my bad arm carefully. "What is it?"

The faint background keyboard noises that were customary with his calls stopped for a moment. "I just tried to remember your voice while working and I couldn't. It was super weird since I have super good memory, and I was kinda bothered since you only gave me a short message saying you were nearly back so I called you," he explained.

"Just for that?" I asked in confusion. He would've seen me enter the apartment, so there was no reason to worry about that at all. So my voice..? That's one of the most ham-handed excuses there was, but hey, I only had a general idea of what goes on in this guy's head.

"Yeah... it's back in my head now that I've heard it. Why couldn't I remember it before..?" he trailed off for a moment. Interesting.

"Do you enjoy my voice that much?" I said in a teasing tone.

"Maybe?" he responded uncertainly. "I mean, not that you sound annoying or anything, it's kinda—"

I snickered. "Alright, no need to explain it. What have you been up to anyways?" I asked, offering an olive branch to save face.

"Work, work, and more work. I've been jittery all day... is it because of all the Doctor Pepper I drank..? Ugh..." he growled that last part out, and I stifled my laughter.

"Careful with all that soda or you'll get sick," I chided.

He let out a sound that resembled a horse flapping their lips. "Yes, yes, but... I didn't interrupt your sleep, did I?"

How nice of you to notice. "Pretty much. You woke me up, you're responsible now, mister."

"W-what am I gonna do? Oh my! I just woke you up. I didn't sleep with you," he stuttered out in a panic, and my brain copied the action thanks to that last line. An awkward silence permeated in the air. "... That was super rated R just now."

"Oh, you think?" I muttered, head buried in a pillow out of shame at my train of thoughts. Yeah sure, me and him getting cozy haha, I am NOT going to imagine things like that. Nope, siree.

"If you want me to be responsible, then I will." Oh, God, you're not helping, Seven! "But you will have to fill out a form beforehand. Your birthday, height, weight, FB address, number of Tripter accounts..."

"We are so not having this conversation right now," I sighed out, angrily damning my reddening face to hell and back. "Nope, not happening."

There was a short chuckle from the other side, and I had a feeling this was payback from my side of the teasing. "Something really strange happened when I was calling you before... My hands were just pressing your number automatically," he said softly.

... Why does this sound extremely familiar..?

"And then?" I prompted him, hoping the next few words would jog my memory.

"It was almost like a trance. I woke up when I heard the signal and thought about hanging up, but I'm glad I didn't," Wait... hold on, is this— "Hearing your voice makes me want to take you to the space station," he confessed with a tiny, nervous laugh.

I blinked. I blinked again, and then blinked some more.

I... uhm.

...

Uhm.

Did he seriously just..?

"Uh..." I ever-so-eloquently rasped out. "I, uh..."

My moment of stupidity led to him snapping out of whatever self-induced stupor he also had. "Oh, I have lots of work to do so I need to hang up," he hurriedly said, and I just let him be as my brain was at 50% done with rebooting. "Uhm... thanks for talking with me. Then goodbye... and have a good night!"

My voice was stuck in my throat, and I slowly dropped my phone. I simmered in the lingering tension that got me to bury myself deeper into a pillow.

Oh God... my heart and face... please no. Why that line.

"Why in the world are you doing this to me, dammit," I groaned dramatically into my pillow. "Bwisit ka talaga."

This is... okay, let's just start ignoring that ever happened for now, because I know that this will lead to awkwardness if ever brought up. Right, that's best to do. Nothing like that ever occurred between Seven and I.

This will not lead to THAT.

Oh, perfect, a chatroom. Distractions!

Ame has entered the chatroom

V: Ame, you're here.

V: I was worried no one would be here.

I swear my eyes could've bugged out, and suddenly everything else didn't matter as much than this. V's... really here.

Ame: Hello, V ^^

Ame: We finally meet.

V: Haha, yes, hello.

V: I hope you've been well?

Ame: As well as I can be.

V: I'm glad you seem to be doing well here.

V: I heard that the members were starting to get worried about the party... so I had to come.

V: Have you had any trouble continuing Rika's work?

Ame: I think I'm doing okay, I guess.

Jumin Han: V?

Oh... another familiar thing. I think this is the chat where the two childhood friends also have some friendly banter after V's announcement..?

Ame: Hey, Jumin, it's good that you're here ^^

Jumin Han: I see.

Jumin Han: I'm glad I didn't miss you V.

Jumin Han: What are you doing here so late, V?

V: Oh... Luciel called me.

V: He told me to come look at the messages, so I took the time to come.

V: The expectations towards the party, the talk about Rika...

V: I read everything.

Jumin Han: Yoosung is getting worried.

I rigidly sit up, bracing myself for the news. Foreknowledge was great and all, but experiencing the suspense still had a different feeling to it.

V: Yes.

V: I came to say that we are definitely holding the party and I'm still working on setting the date.

V: It's going to be confirmed soon so I hope everyone waits until then.

V: I'm sure it's not easy for you, but please understand, Ame.

A part of me feels frustrated at the fact that this party being set exactly one week later might have been the catalyst for Unknown's proactivity down the line, since the MC and the party planning serve as nice distractions for his machinations behind the scenes...

Ame: It's okay, I understand. My appearance here has caused quite a stir after all,

Ame: and you guys are working hard on handling it.

V: Thank you.

V: If anything's been confirmed, I'll make sure to tell everyone.

V: I'll have to try my best to not let everyone down.

Jumin Han: It's very like you to say that.

Jumin Han: I'm sure if you just explain why it's taking so long, everyone will understand.

V: It's... something to think about.

Jumin Han: If anything's been found concerning

Jumin Han: how Ame ended up in Rika's apartment, I hope you share it.

I frowned. Oh, he would like to share it if he could, but with the mess the RFA's tangled with, I doubt that time will come until the inevitable happens. I pray it never comes to that worst scenario...

V: Ah, well

V: Surprisingly, I've been receiving calls from some of the previous party guests. They have asked me about the plan of the party.

... Wait, what?

Ame: But how?

Jumin Han: That's very suspicious. We haven't made any mention of the party.

V: Luciel is still looking into it.

V: I'll tell you if we find anything.

That's... I don't remember this. Or wait—was it mentioned somewhere in the Casual Story..? Ugh, fuck, stupid memory.

Ame: Is it possible that this someone else knew I joined the RFA?

Ame: Maybe it's the person who got me here...

Because who else could obtain and leak the information right now?

Jumin Han: Yes, I think the same.

V: I agree. It is clear that someone outside the organization knows about Ame.

V: The reason why I need more time to set plans for the party is...

V: I want to start the work after we've secured Ame's safety as much as possible.

Ame: ... And about that stalker guy?

V: Security camers are placed everywhere outside the apartment.

V: If anything seems strange, I or Luciel will know right away.

V: We will guarantee your safety.

Gosh, I only tacked that on out of slight fear and curiosity, but... I feel safer already. He feels strangely like a Papa Bear.

Jumin Han: Should I help?

V: No, there's no need right now Jumin

V: but thanks for the offer.

V: Just trust me for now.

Jumin Han: I always do.

V: Okay.

... As I really didn't want to think too hard about the implications of this new information, I guess I should play the curious card, huh?

Ame: You guys seem very close.

Jumin Han: We've been friends since childhood.

V: I'm very lucky to have grown up in the same neighborhood as you.

Jumin Han: I still remember you as a kid taking pictures of a wall and then secretly painting over that wall.

Jumin Han: And you took a photo of that painted wall to compare.

This was one thing that had me interested. V's an artist, so what made him not take up painting instead of photography? If the game back at home was developing a new route for the rest of the cast, I might have had my answers, but I'm stuck basically throwing guesses around.

... Well, I'm living the game, so there's that, I suppose.

V: I still remember that tie you wore as a child. It changed every time.

Jumin Han: My nanny picked it out for me. You have no idea how annoying it is to choose one every morning.

The unbidden image of a young woman who had six nearly identical ties in each hand only in different colors, holding it up to the young heir's face with an intense look, popped up in my head.

Ame: Oh, the tragedy.

V: Haha...

Jumin Han: So nothing's been confirmed about the party?

V: Oh... I was just about to say anyway,

V: Nothing's been set, but...

V: I don't think we can have a long time to prepare for it.

V: Ame's not used to this job yet and a big scale party would just be too much for her.

Jumin Han: Yeah. Do what you think is right.

Jumin Han: We should just be thankful that we can have the party again.

V: Thanks for thinking that way.

V: What do you think, Ame? Do you feel too pressured?

V: Has everyone been nice ever since you joined the RFA?

Ame: I don't feel pressured at all. Everyone's been nice and accommodating.^^

Ame: And don't worry V, with everyone's help, I know this will be a great party no matter the size.

I still wonder how much stress would've happened if being the RFA's party coordinator had other obligations to fulfill apart from drawing in guests, like arranging the catering, venue and the like. I shivered. The paperwork would be a nightmare to go through, and I'm already anxious about replying to (hopefully) twenty-plus influential people since I had no guide to fall back on.

Whatever the case, I still want to get a bunch of people to participate, because gosh darnit, this organization's charity efforts to three different causes from the parties they've held in over two years made my heart swoon. One to mental health (specifically depression), another was an educational arts program for younger children, and the next for abuse victims...

Rika sure put a lot of thought into which organizations to support, that's for sure... and I hope I'm overthinking that this was a hint of what she had gone through.

V: Yes... I'm glad to hear that ^^

V: If anything gets difficult, just talk to Luciel or Jumin.

Ame: Right.

Jumin Han: You can also talk to Assistant Kang.

V: I knew you'd say that.

Jumin Han: ?

V: Nothing ^^

Nothing, he says. Maybe I should initiate some more idle chat with Jumin later... I mean, it would be a good distraction from boredom and he gets a somewhat decent conversation partner.

V: Anyways, Jumin, how are you doing?

I feel like it's best if I hang back and let these two talk without me barging in until necessary, since if I recall correctly, they haven't seen each other for a while.

V: I see you're the usual with your father. How's his health?

Jumin Han: Perfect as always.

V: That's good to hear.

Jumin Han: He's too healthy actually. He's still changing girlfriends all the time.

Jumin Han: Men are the same no matter how old they are.

V: Haha... He's really a good father except for that aspect.

Jumin Han: Exactly.

Jumin Han: Anyways, my father's the same as always so don't worry.

Jumin Han: Although he sort of annoys me with his women problems.

V: Still, that's good. At least he doesn't touch anyone working right beneath you.

Jumin Han: Yeah, that's a relief.

Okayyyy... seeing as I have no express want of making Jumin suddenly think of the previous Chief Assistant's fate (which I have theories that will never see the light of day), I immediately cut in with the first thing that came to mind.

Ame: You seem to know each other's families well.

V: Yes, since we were practically family when we were young.

Jumin Han: I joined the RFA because of this one here too.

V: Yes, I have a very good friend by my side,

V: Thankfully, he's been a great help. Since he has many connections and excellent skills.

Jumin Han: No need to be thankful. I'm only doing it because I enjoy it.

Ame: That's nice.

Jumin Han: Anyways, he mentioned that she was a celebrity

Jumin Han: so at least I won't be seeing her often.

V: Hmm. I'm sure they aren't bad people though.

Celebrity?! Please no, not THEM. I'd have loved to interject, but the simple notion of having the two lovely women in Jumin's route appear made deign to keep things to myself—for the sake of my sanity.

Jumin Han: I'm not interested.

Jumin Han: Their relationship only concerns my father,

Jumin Han: He's never come for me for my opinion, so I doubt he needs my advice.

V: Does he say anything to you?

V: You know, about your girlfriend or marriage. Fathers always ask you about that.

Jumin Han: Sometimes, but I never really answer.

V: I see.

Jumin Han: Concerning that aspect in life, I don't want to talk about it with him.

V: Hmm...

V: Don't be so harsh to your father and show some interest.

I cringe farther away by instinct. I can't really imagine it'll be easy for Jumin... even if I do agree with V.

Jumin Han: Are you lecturing me?

V: Yes, as a friend.

V: If you look around with a bit more sincerity, you'll find that you're surrounded by good people, more than you think.

Ame: I'll have to second that.

Jumin Han: I'm sure there are a lot of good people. Most are nice to me.

Jumin Han: But I don't really want to get to know them.

Jumin Han: They won't understand anyways.

Frowning, I get up from my position on the bed, thumbs spurned by those words to answer.

Ame: Don't just draw the line like that.

Ame: I'm sure there are people out there who understand who you really are. It may take some time before you find them

Ame: because there can and will be people who will come and go in your life but... meanwhile you have the RFA, don't you?

Ame: So please don't... close yourself off.

... Agh, did I come off too strongly?

V: Yeah, I agree with Ame.

Jumin Han: I don't know about that.

My shoulders sagged, and I shook my head knowingly.

V: Sometimes, I feel like you're so against making new friends.

V: It wouldn't be bad to take a chance.

Jumin Han: Haven't been given friendly advice from you in a while.

Jumin Han: But if you're about to start nagging me, then I refuse.

Jumin Han: You as well, Ame.

I only rolled my eyes at the jab.

Ame: Oh, haha.

V: I haven't even started yet?

Jumin Han: Stop. It's never gonna end if you start.

V: Haha, alright.

Jumin Han: One thing.

V: Yes?

Ame: ?

Jumin Han: Typing such long sentences makes you feel old.

Though I wasn't sure if the comment was directed at me, I already felt old, so thanks for that anyways bud.

V: Okay, noted.

V: The pen your father gave you is really nice.

Said pen's image suddenly came to the forefront of my mind. I wasn't around when Jumin talked about that during the late afternoon, but I had a general idea that it was about some praise and then a shade-throwing session between him and Zen.

Jumin Han: Yeah. It's more his style, but it's my favorite birthday present I've gotten more recently.

Jumin Han: Of course, the company and RFA are more important right now though.

Jumin Han: Thanks for caring about my private life, but please set the party date first.

V: Alright, I'll set it as soon as I can.

V: Oh, right.

V: I'm thinking about inviting Rui, the photographer. What do you think?

Jumin Han: Is there a reason?

V: Yes. He's a friend, and he's pretty famous in the industry.

V: I'm sure he'll help.

Jumin Han: If you say so.

Since I do remember his emails and had some knowledge of photography, he was more than welcome as a guest. I should keep an eye on how many guests there were though.

Ame: Hmm, I'm game. Let's invite him ^^

Jumin Han: V, if you want to invite him, then I agree.

Jumin Han: Since Ame seems to be okay with it too

V: Then I'll contact him.

V: Oh.

V: Sorry.

V: I just got a call... I'll have to go.

Jumin Han: So soon?

Call of danger? A voice whispered conspiratorially, and I felt my hand seize.

V: Jumin, say hello to everyone for me.

Jumin Han: Don't worry.

Ame: Well, it was fun talking to you, V.

Ame: Thanks for caring a lot about the party. We'll all work hard for it to be a success ^^

Ame: Don't stress yourself out too much and see you soon!

V: Haha, yes thank you.

V: I'll try so that no one has to wait for long.

V: Take care of yourself until the party, Ame.

Jumin Han: Take care of yourself until we talk again.

V: Okay, thanks.

V: See you later.

V has left the chatroom

Stay safe, V, I prayed in my head, even if I assured myself that no danger would befall the man until the penultimate day...

Jumin Han: ...

Jumin Han: Now that V came to talk to us, I really feel like the party will happen.

Ame: It strangely feels unreal but also real at the same time.

Ame: Does that make sense?

Jumin Han: I suppose.

Jumin Han: It feels very strange

Jumin Han: to have you see me talking to V when you haven't been here for long.

Ame: ... Do you two not meet up often?

Jumin Han: Ever since Rika left, V hasn't been meeting any of us.

Jumin Han: We used to talk on the phone often, but we rarely do these days.

Jumin Han: We each have our own lives, so there's nothing you can do about that, but what happened to Rika was a blow to both of us.

... I can't really find it in me to formulate a response. I feel it best to just let him speak and get his thoughts together while I listen, because saying 'I'm sorry for your loss' just sounds... hollow. Plus the fact that I know Rika was out there grated at my heart.

Jumin Han: He seems busy, but at least he's doing okay.

Jumin Han: ...

Jumin Han: I should get going before I end up talking too much.

Jumin Han: Why don't you go to bed early, Ame? If you have something scheduled tomorrow.

Ame: Alright then, good night.

Jumin Han: It was fun talking to you.

Jumin Han: Good night.

Jumin Han has left the chatroom

As if on cue, I careened backwards to the mattress with a fwump and a disdainful mutter, arm sending more prickling pain up my muscles. I ignore that in favor of more crap I'd been handed to think about.

Jumin's... new prospective stepmom can become an issue, but I don't have a lot of evidence yet. If it's really the two Choi sisters... they will be a nightmare to deal with. Ugh, I'd have to scour the internet for gossip articles tomorrow, and see what to do after that.

Moving on, those people who're asking V about the party... I'd have normally pinned the blame on Unknown, but there WAS also a chance that it could be the other guests I'd already talked to. I didn't really have a solid grasp on the social circle of the elites, but I had my bets that the Cultured Citizens people would have a wide reach in spreading gossip. Factoring in that mostly wealthy and famed figures were involved in this organization, then they would have to confirm that fact with the leader himself.

But then again, that was just it. We were only on the planning stages, so exposure would definitely be low, and the rumors could only just be waved off thanks to RFA's history. It could be Unknown attempting to stir the audience, all in the name of... garnering more people for their cause.

... Oh God, I just hope that this was the former and that I'm overthinking this again.

I place my phone on the desk, and numbly lay back down.

I really, really hope it's all nothing.


OMAKE: Space Station Call ~Alternate~


"Hearing your voice makes me want to take you to the space station," he confessed with a tiny, nervous laugh.

She gaped.

He did not just..? Did he really? Both her heart and mind were going into a red-alert kind of madness, and in the middle of it all, her voice had decided to operate on its own.

"Imagine something new that is fully out of this world," Ame began to sing, and her eyes widened in panic as the words slipped. "You and me, let's marry in the space station~"

"H-huh?" His voice went an octave higher, and with that, a ridiculous idea was borne. If she was being embarrassed like this because of her uncontrollable mouth, then he was going down with her.

"Mystical Messages! Mystic clue of this puzzle, oh~"

"Ame, w-what—"

"Mystical Messenger, it's too dangerous, don't come close~!"

She could practically feel the confusion from the other side. "Ame, are you—"

"You think I'm crazy," she said in a sadder tone, and he sputtered at the jab. "My heartbeat goes up... no matter what I must follow my heart!"

"Uh—"

The woman had a grin, as she was finally letting herself enjoy this even with the unhealthy shade of red her face was sporting. "Did you get mysterious messages? It's a piece of the puzzle. The letters are the only clues to solving hidden mysteries~" she sang loudly, and in the depths of her mind, perhaps it was a way of letting little hints pass by. "Did you get mysterious messages? If you can feel the trace, that is me. Call me out, I've been watching you from the start~"

As she let the last syllable fade, Ame added. "You know Seven, if you really wanted to be noticed more, you could just say so."

She ended the call then and there, just as Seven made a choking noise.

Someone find her a hole to burrow in please.


*"도와 줘서 고마워." - "Thanks for your help."