Milk Moustache

261
©aienbest 2009 Milk Moustache By aienbest 1

Transcript of Milk Moustache

Page 1: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Milk MoustacheBy

aienbest

1

Page 2: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

CONTENTS

Prologue 3

1. Soulmate 4

2. Messy 11

3. Even 16

4. Trip 21

5. Reflexes 27

6. Homework 33

7. Scenes 39

8. Awkward 45

9. Hurt 51

10. Pieces 57

11. This 63

12. Friend 69

13. Sick 75

14. Future 82

15. Decision 88

16. Footprints 95

17. Pulse 100

18. Soup 105

19. Reasons 111

20. Twilight 116

21. Date 122

22. Public 128

23. Feelings 133

24. Choice 139

25. Love 145

26. Past 152

27. Copy 158

28. Rings 164

29. News 171

30. Something 178

31. Idiot 184

32. Forever 189

33. Only 194

34. Call 199

35. Talk 204

36. Broken 210

37. Stay 216

38. Faith 221

39. Dreams 227

40. Wedding 234

41. Journal 241

42. Found 249

2

Page 3: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Prologue

Jessica wants to stay in this moment. Forever.

It’s snowing, but she feels warm. As long as she’s with her.

They were sitting on the park bench, holding hands.

Jessica looked at the face that she adores so much, Tiffany’s. She’s smiling, with her beautiful eye-smile that’s warming Jessica’s whole body.

Tiffany lean forward and Jessica could feel her heart beating faster for every inch Tiffany neared.

Tiffany put her warm lips on Jessica’s forehead, so soft as if Jessica is so fragile.

“Don’t ever leave me, Tiffany.”

Tiffany smiled and looked deeply into her lover’s eyes, “I’m not going anywhere.”

“I’m your soulmate, remember?”

Jessica could feel her cheeks became hot, “Promise?”

Tiffany leaned closer so that her nose touching Jessica’s, “I love you.”

Jessica pull Tiffany’s neck and kiss her deeply..

She closed her eyes..

**

Jessica opened her eyes. It’s dark. She realized that she’s not in the park bench, but on her bed.

There’s no Tiffany, she’s been kissing her pillow passionately, yet again.

Just another dream.

Jessica could feel her eyes are wet, she feels stupid for crying over someone she never met. Or worse, maybe that someone didn’t even existed.

She feels stupid for falling in love with someone that she can only meet in her dream.

She closed her eyes again, trying to sleep and continue her dream. She hoped Tiffany will appear again, but she never did.

The only dream she had after that was about a giant cucumber with a face..chasing her..

And it was a total nightmare.

3

Page 4: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 1 – Soulmate

“Mmm..Tiffany..”

Jessica was sleeping on her bed, both hands holding the pillow. More like strangling it.

“Hehe..this is great stuff..”

A younger girl is recording Jessica’s very humiliating condition.

“I lovvee you..”

Jessica held the pillow as if the pillow has a face.

“Yeah, that’s right, kiss that PillowFany..heee”

“..PillowFannyyy...eh?”

Jessica eyes shot open, and suddenly pull her body up. She looked at her little sister with wide eyes.

“Let me guess, you’re dreaming of your soulmate again, right?”

“Krystal..”

“Go ahead, don’t mind me.”

“Krystal..”

“I wonder how many views this video will get when I post this on YouTube?”

“YouTube?! Don’t you dare!”

Krystal doesn’t seem to be a bit scared of Jessica’s hell raising state.

“What title would be suitable?”

“Hmm..”

“My sister and her pillow lover? Or Making out with a pillow? Or you prefer something simple like..Pillow love?”

Jessica can’t stand it anymore, she tried to grab the camera and Krystal’s neck but the younger girl is fast. She’s already in front of the door with the camera, grinning.

Jessica grabbed her PillowFany and throws it with full force on Krystal’s face.

“Eewwww! This thing has your drool all over it!”

Jessica was about to strangle her sister when her mom came.

“Girls, it’s our first day back in Korea and you’re still on each other’s neck.”

4

Page 5: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Geographical difference doesn’t change one’s nature. A monkey is still a monkey wherever they are.”

“Jessica, don’t call your sister a monkey.”

Jessica ignored her whining sister and head to the bathroom.

“Hurry up and let’s have a breakfast together.”

“No thanks mom, I’m gonna grab something on the way to the office.”

“You’re going to start working today? Don’t you want to rest for a few days?”

“It’s okay. I can’t wait to start.”

Jessica smiled.

**

A girl is sleeping on her pink bed, with a pink bolster, and pink pillow with pink pyjamas on.

Her pink alarm clock started to make noises as it hit six in the morning. She opened her eyes along with a wide smile on her face.

“Good morning world, It’s a new day!”

Tiffany wakes up with a wide smile on her face and started to tidy her bed.

“It’s the first thing you must do after waking up, tidy your bed.” She tells herself.

She head to the bathroom and get ready for work.

She looked in the mirror and satisfied with her looks.

She peeked into the room beside hers’,

“Are you up yet, cousin?”

There’s a bump on the bed that looks like a human body.

“Hmm..mm”

“Wake up, Yoona. Get ready to school.”

“I’m already awake, cousin.”

Mumbled Yoona from under the covers.

“I’ll pick you up when I got back, you better get ready.”

5

Page 6: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You’re going to the cafe’?”

“I have a breakfast date with Minho oppa. You want anything?”

“Sandwich..

.....chicken.”

Said Yoona before started to snore again.

Tiffany sighed and walked out muttering words that sounded like lazy and butt.

**

“May I take your order ma’am?”

“Come on Sunny, you know what I will order.”

The short waitress sighed, “Of course, a toast and a glass of fresh milk.”

“Good.”

“I just thought you will order something else for a change.”

Tiffany just smiled.

“Have you ever heard of coffee? They taste pretty good too.”

“Don’t mock me Sunny, you know I don’t like coffee.”

“We have white coffee now. You sure you don’t wanna try?”

Tiffany smiled and shook her head.

“It’s white..kinda like milk..”

“Maybe next time.”

“Fine.”

“Oh, also can you pack me a chicken sandwich?”

“For Yoona eh?”

“You know her, she’s not a morning person.”

“Haha, okay.”

Tiffany chuckled at Sunny’s attempt to make her drink something other than milk.

6

Page 7: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany is regular customer at the cafe for almost five years. She will definitely visit the cafe at least once a week. Sometimes she came by herself; sometimes her boyfriend will be there with her. Like today, he’s supposed to meet her there for breakfast but it’s been 10 minutes and he’s nowhere to be seen.

Tiffany started to worry, and angry at the same time.

Suddenly her pink phone rang; she picked it up almost instantly.

“Baby, where are you? You’re late!”

“Sorry Tiff, I can’t go. They just called me for a photo shoot this morning.”

“What? You promised that we’ll meet today.”

“I know, I’m really sorry, I promise I will make it up to you.”

“Stop giving me promises.”

Tiffany stop talking as Sunny came to deliver her breakfast and the sandwich.

“I’m reaaaally sorry, Tiff baby.”

Tiffany grabs her glass of milk and takes a sip of her favourite drink.

“Whatever.”

“You have no idea how I wish to be with you right now, and look at your beautiful face with your cute milk moustache.”

“I have no milk moustache!”

Said Tiffany, as she wiped her mouth with a napkin.

“You just wiped it.”

“I did not.”

Tiffany hears Minho chuckles at the other line.

“I gotta go now, Tiffany. Take care, okay. I missed you.”

“I missed you too.”

“Bye baby.”

“Bye oppa.”

“Don’t forget to wipe your milk moustache.”

“Oppa!”

All she heard was a laugh before he hung up.

7

Page 8: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany smiled as she wipes her mouth delicately. Minho knows her so well, they’ve been together for five years and she can’t picture herself with anyone else. She could already see her future with Minho, living in a pink house with a garden. They will probably have 3 kids and a dog.

So he cancelled their date, again. Tiffany tries her hardest to understand her boyfriend condition. Minho’s modelling career is on the rise and she doesn’t want to stop him from being successful.

Tiffany sighed as she looked around the cafe. She knows the whole cafe and its community like the back of her hand. She turn to her left and smiled as she watches an old couple having their breakfast at their usual spot. Mr. and Mrs. Kim, had been married for more than 30 years and yet they acted like they just married yesterday. Tiffany can’t help but to picture herself and Minho 30 years later and still so in love. She smiled at the thought.

She turned to her right and there sit a group of men in suits with briefcases in their hands. They always have their usual cup of coffee here. They worked in one of the big banks in the city. Tiffany had done observing the ahjusshis and about to leave when something caught her attention. She looked forward and saw a girl reading a book at a table across hers.

I never saw her before. She must not from around here.

Even as a girl, Tiffany can’t help but admit how beautiful that girl is. Her hair is blonde, but it complements her in everything that she does. Tiffany continues to observe the girl intently. She’s so into the book she read that she didn’t even realize that Tiffany is staring at her.

Sometimes the girl’s face is so serious that it’s scary, but when she smiles, Tiffany unconsciously smiles along with her.

How adorable.

Thank god for the funny lines in the book.

Tiffany can feel her face heating up.

Am I blushing?!

As Tiffany was trying to get her mind straight again, she looked up and meet the girl’s eyes.

The girl was staring back at her.

Oh no.

The blonde girl put her book down and took off her glasses. She blinked her eyes a couple of times and continue to stare at Tiffany in disbelief. As if she’s seeing a ghost.

Tiffany panicked; she didn’t know what to do. She took a sip from her glass of milk and looked down. She started to focus her mind on something else and not the girl, she never noticed that her toast’s plate has ‘Made In China’ stamped on it before.

She can hear footsteps coming towards her. It’s getting nearer but Tiffany keeps on examining the plate. The footsteps stop, right in front of her. Tiffany can smell the girl’s perfume, its vanilla.

8

Page 9: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Do I smell her now?!

“Excuse me..”

Her voice is angelic. Tiffany shouldn’t be surprised though. She should’ve known that this girl is an angel.

“Er..yes.”

Tiffany looked up, trying not to be rude.

Oh my, she’s much prettier up close.

“Oh my god..it’s you.”

The girl looked pale and staring at her with wide eyes.

“Sorry?”

“It’s you, it’s really you!”

Tiffany tries so hard to recall if she ever met the girl. But the result is zero.

“I’m sorry, but do you know me?”

“Where have you been all of my life?”

Tiffany really couldn’t comprehend a single thing that’s happening. This girl she never met suddenly staring at her with teary eyes and saying things that sounded like it’s from some old movies.

“Er..nice to meet you too?”

“Tiffany, I’m Jessica. Your soulmate!”

“Woah, wait a minute, how do you know my name?!”

“You told me.”

“And what is this thing about soulmate?!”

Jessica touches Tiffany’s face with her hands and strokes her hair.

“I finally found you, Tiffany.”

“Er..what are you doing?”

“Aww..your milk moustache..”

Jessica uses her thumb and wipes the edge of Tiffany’s lips gently.

Tiffany can feel Jessica’s fingers tracing her jawline, her nose and her eyes. As weird as it is, it kinda feels good but not right. Tiffany pushed Jessica’s hands and it caused Jessica to stumble backwards.

“Stop it, you freak!”

9

Page 10: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany’s voice was quite loud this time and it attract the attention of the whole cafe.

“I’m sorry but I think you must’ve mistaken me for another person. I never met you!”

Jessica said nothing but tears started rolling down her cheeks.

Tiffany, unknowing what she should do, grabbed the sandwich and her hand accidentally knocked the glass of milk on the table. The milk spilled on Jessica’s coat.

Tiffany rushed out of the café and started the engine of her car and drive away with the guilt in her heart.

10

Page 11: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 2 –Messy

“You’re late.”

Yoona already waited for Tiffany in front of their house.

She entered the car and as soon as she shut the door, Tiffany speed off.

“Woah, slow down, take it easy! What’s wrong with you?”

She looked at her cousin’s face, a bit shocked. She has never seen her like that.

“Did something happen between you and Minho?”

Tiffany didn’t really listening; her mind is still confused with what’s happening just now. She can’t stop thinking about the girl she just met.

What was her name? It’s Jessica isn’t it?

“Unnie, are you okay?”

Tiffany snapped back to reality and turned her head to look at Yoona.

“Uh, what were you saying?”

“Geez, did you drink bad milk or something?”

“Haha..I’m fine.”

“Yeah right.”

Tiffany sighed.

“It’s just..I met someone.”

“A hot guy?!”

Yoona’s eyes were filled with excitement.

“No...urm..a hot girl.”

Yoona’s face expression changed immediately.

“Unnie?!”

Tiffany stopped the car as they reached Yoona’s college.

“What do you mean a girl?!”

Tiffany reached the backseat to grab a small brown paper bag.

“Here’s your sandwich, hurry up or you’re going to be late.”

11

Page 12: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Yoona stepped out of the car with her sandwich in one hand but standing still in front of the door.

“I have to go now, take care, cousin.”

Tiffany drives away.

“Wait unnie!”

Yoona stood there as she watched Tiffany’s car disappears from her view.

“What just happened?”

**

“She’s late.”

Said a tall girl as she taps her watch. She kept her eyes fixed at the corner hoping that her friend will show up any minute.

“There she is..”

Tiffany came rushing with bags in one hand and her coat on the other. She looks messy and slightly panting. That’s so unlike her.

“Hey Fany, are you okay?”, asked the tall girl with a curious tone.

“Why is everybody keep asking me that?”

Tiffany walked to her table and put down her all of her stuffs on the table at once. She slumped herself on the chair and closed her eyes.

A tall innocent looking girl came with two cups of coffee in her hands. She stared at Tiffany with a concern face.

“Unnie, are you okay?!”

The girl put down the cups on the nearest table and rushed to Tiffany’s side. She put one hand on Tiffany’s forehead and another hand on her own forehead.

“Hmm..you’re not sick.”

“I’m not sick, Seohyun.”

Tiffany gently pulled away Seohyun’s hand from her forehead.

“But why you’re late? You never came late to work.”

“Big deal. You guys came late almost every day. Especially you, Sooyoung.”

12

Page 13: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Hey, it takes time to finish double breakfast!”

“Unnie, you’re not like us. You’re Tiffany Hwang who lives an orderly life with a lifetime plan.”

“Well today, nothing happened the way I planned it. That’s for sure.”

“Had a bad morning, unnie?”

Tiffany sighed and nodded.

Seohyun gave her an encouraging smile and pat her back.

Tiffany looked at her tall friends, something is different.

“Oh yeah, why are you guys early? And, what’s with the new clothes?”

Sooyoung and Seohyun both looked at Tiffany in disbelief.

“Have you forgotten?”

“Forgot what?”

Sooyoung slap her forehead.

“We’re going to have a new boss today!”

“It’s today?”

Tiffany totally forgot about the new chief editor that will come that day. The post had been vacant for a few weeks since their former boss; Mrs. Kang quit the job to open her own business.

It’s hard for Tiffany to focus on anything since the incident at the cafe. Jessica’s face kept re-appearing in her mind every few minutes. She remembered the look on Jessica’s face when she scolded her, and Jessica’s tears not too soon after. And the milk she accidentally spilled on Jessica’s expensive looking coat. She felt the need to apologize to Jessica, and send the coat to the dry cleaners.

If only I was a bit nicer to her.

Tiffany shook her head.

Whatever, at least I’ll never meet her again.

“I heard that your new boss is around your age.”

A tall and slim guy walked towards them.

“Heechul oppa, you know?”

Heechul smirked, “There’s nothing in this office that I don’t know, dear.”

“23 years old, to be exact.” He added.

13

Page 14: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“That’s the same age as Tiffany.”

Tiffany jerked up her head upon hearing her name.

“Me?”

“Her family just moved back to Korea from America. She was raised in the States.”

“Just like Fany unnie.”

“Well, a lot of people grew up in States..not just me.”

Tiffany mumbled by herself.

“The word has it that she’s pretty strict. They said she has a cold attitude.”

“Cold?”

“Like an ice princess.”

“But isn’t it too young for her to be the chief editor for our department?”

“This girl got excellent academic records. She’s the best student with impressive amount of awards.”

“..and to top it all.”

“Hmm..?”

Heechul smirked.

“She’s the niece of our magazine’s founder.”

“Mrs. Jung’s niece?!”, Said all three girls in unison.

“That’s true, and her name is..

“Jessica.” Said a voice came from behind them.

Tiffany got chills all over her body upon hearing the voice.

It’s the angelic voice..

She has ideas in her head and it’s all pretty terrifying. She refuses to turn around.

Sooyoung, Seohyun and Heechul turned to the direction of the voice. All three of them stunned at the beauty that is Jessica Jung.

“Hello.”

“Yes..”

Sooyoung bowed a little and pulled the stunned Seohyun with her.

“I’m Choi Sooyoung, and this is our trainee, Seohyun.”

14

Page 15: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Sooyoung nudge Tiffany to turn around, but Tiffany stood still.

“Hi, I’m Kim Heechul from the fashion department, nice to meet you.”

Tiffany could hear footsteps getting closer but her body couldn’t move. She didn’t want to move.

“And you are?”

Tiffany hoped she’s wrong. She hoped that her ears deceived her, and that it’s not the same voice she heard earlier that morning. She took a deep breath and turned to face her new boss.

“I’m Hwang..

Tiffany couldn’t finish her sentence, as her hopes falls down.

It is the same Jessica.

Jessica was equally surprised. She froze.

They both stare at each other for a few seconds, no words exchanged. The atmosphere is awkward and Tiffany is pretty sure she could smell milk from Jessica’s coat. Or maybe it’s just her.

..Tiffany.”

Tiffany finally able to finish her sentence after much struggling.

“Nice to meet you, Tiffany.”

So we meet again.

15

Page 16: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 3 – Even

“He’s late..”

Tiffany is waiting for her boyfriend in their favourite western restaurant in Seoul. They’re supposed to meet there for dinner.

Tiffany glanced at her watch, it’s already half past eight. People started to stare at her and whispering, probably thought she’s dateless and lonely.

A tall man with sculpture like features entered the restaurant. He looked around and smiled as she saw Tiffany at their usual table. He hides a bouquet of pink roses behind him and walk slowly towards the table.

His entrance sure had caused a few problems; the female waitresses stopped moving, stunned at his perfect face, while the female customers ignored their dates. Some even dropped their spoons, if holding any. Or worse, glasses.

He arrived at Tiffany’s table but she didn’t realize his presence. He leaned to Tiffany’s level and faked his voice,

“May I take your order ma’am?”

Tiffany hissed under her breath.

“Lee Min Ho, you’re late.”

Minho patted Tiffany’s head gently before kissing her hair.

“I’m sorry baby, the shoot lasts longer that I expected.”

Tiffany pouted, still not looking at him.

“Forgive me? Pweeease?”

Minho works his aegyo the best he could, even though he looked like a total dork right now. He handed Tiffany the pink roses.

Tiffany looked up and met her boyfriend’s eyes. She always loses to those beautiful eyes and the amazing smile.

“I hate you.”

Tiffany grabbed the bouquet and smells the flowers. She loves pink roses the most.

Minho felt relieved as she saw Tiffany smiling, he knew he’s forgiven.

**

16

Page 17: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“HAHAHAHA!”

“Oppa, keep your voice down. People are staring at us.”

“That is so funny!”

“It’s not funny to me.”

“So you’re saying that this girl has a crush on you?!”

“It’s not like that..actually I’m not sure myself..”

“..and you spilled milk on her expensive coat?!”

“It was by accident!”

“..and she turned out to be your new boss?!”

“Kinda sucks, right?”

Minho tries to suppress his laughter as he saw Tiffany staring at him. He clears his throat.

“So..umm. How are you going to deal with her?..in the office I mean.”

“I have no idea, all I know is that she hates me. She asked me to do so many ridiculous tasks on the first day.”

Minho took a sip from his glass as he continues to listen.

“She told me to remove big boxes and run errands all over the place. I’m getting a little stressed.”

Minho reached forward to hold Tiffany’s hand.

“Hang in there, maybe she’ll wake up tomorrow and forgot about her feelings for you.”

“That’s not even funny.”

“Is she pretty? Should I be worried?”

“Oppa, are you serious?”

Minho chuckled at Tiffany’s confused face, So cute.

“Actually, I can’t stop thinking about her.”

Tiffany smirked.

“She’s beautiful. No kidding. For a second I thought she’s an angel.”

“Huh?”

“I wouldn’t mind going gay for her.”

17

Page 18: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Minho startled, she stared at Tiffany’s face in disbelief.

“You’re kidding..”

Now it’s Tiffany’s turn to laugh.

“You’d scared me! Don’t you ever do that to me again!”

Tiffany leaned forward and caresses Minho’s cheek gently.

“There’s no one else but you.”

Minho took her hand and kissed it gently.

“I know.”

Tiffany smiled at her boyfriend’s reaction. Minho was so relieved that Tiffany was just lying about being gay for her boss. But little did he know that one thing is true though.

Tiffany can’t stop thinking about her.

**

“Where is Tiffany?”

Jessica’s voice filled the office.

“She’s not here yet, Miss Jung..”

Sooyoung replied, her voice shakes.

The office’s atmosphere had changed tremendously since Jessica came. Seohyun had to wear a few layer of jackets to keep her warm. Jessica is exactly what people described her. She hardly smiles.

“She’s asking for Fany unnie, again.”

Seohyun talked to Sooyoung, her voice barely audible.

“I wonder what Fany did to her. Why is she’s torturing Fany?”

“I feel sorry for Fany unnie. She’s the assistant editor, she doesn’t deserved to be treated like that.”

Sooyoung and Seohyun stopped talking as Jessica pass by them, heading towards the door.

“Gawd unnie, she’s scary!”

“What did I do in my previous life to deserve a boss like that?!”

Tiffany came rushing towards the door, panting.

18

Page 19: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Is she’s here yet?”

“She’s the first that arrived.”

Tiffany sat down on her chair opened a bottle of mineral water to quench her thirst.

“She’s looking for you.”

Tiffany rolled her eyes.

“Really? She probably bored and wants me to do labour work to entertain herself.”

Seohyun suddenly froze.

“Tiffany.”

Tiffany heart races at the sound of that voice. It happens almost every time. She turned her head,

“Yes.”

Jessica was standing, one arm on her waist. She’s holding a glass of milk in another hand.

“Why are you late?”, asked Jessica, coldly.

“I’m not late Miss Jung, I punched in at exactly 9:00 am.”

“9:01 am, I checked it. You’re late.”

Tiffany gulped her own saliva. She didn’t expect her to check that.

“Come with me.”, She ordered.

Tiffany sighed. She wonders what task she could possibly assigned to today.

Jessica sat on her chair. Tiffany waited for her to speak.

None of them ever say anything about the incident at the café. They both acted like it never happen.

“Here, I want you to finish it by tomorrow morning.”

Jessica handed Tiffany a blue file.

A file? No labour work today?

After a week of labour work, Tiffany is finally given an office task. She took the file and skimmed through.

This is ridiculous.

“Miss Jung, how can I possibly finish two pages of fashion feature overnight?”

Jessica raised an eyebrow.

“I..mean, it took at least a week for a team to usually finish this.”

19

Page 20: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I don’t care how you’ll do it, I want it by tomorrow.”

“But…that’s not possible.”

“Our top person, Mrs. Jung wants it tomorrow. Or else we won’t have a fashion feature for next month’s issue.”

Tiffany didn’t know how to react.

“You have to present it to her tomorrow. It’s your chance to prove to the big boss that you don’t deserve to be doing what you call it..labour work?”

Tiffany is so pissed that she can’t find words to shot back at Jessica. She looked at Jessica, their eyes met. Tiffany tried to figure out what Jessica is thinking.

Jessica can feel her face heated up by the eye contact, she looked away and clears her throat. She took a sip from her glass of milk.

“Is there anything that you wanted to say?”

“Milk.”

Tiffany just blurted out the word without much thinking.

“Milk?”

Jessica slightly puzzled.

“You got milk moustache right there.”

Tiffany reached her right hand forward and wiped the right corner of Jessica’s mouth with her thumb.

Jessica was surprised but she couldn’t move. She’s not sure if this is real. Or is she still dreaming?

“That made us even.”

Tiffany quickly pulled her hand to her side. She’s unsure why she did what she just did but her body moved by itself. She turned around and left the office, slightly running, embarrassed.

20

Page 21: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 4 – Trip

“Oppa, can you help me with the makeup?”

Tiffany’s voice sounded desperate.

Heechul sighed.

“I guess I can try to sneak out. Have you found the models and the photographers yet?”

“Sooyoung is calling the modelling agencies as we speak. I’ll call you back as soon as we’re settled with everything.”

“Okay, kiddo.”

Sooyoung was the only one available to help Tiffany that day. Seohyun was suddenly called sick. She insisted that she might threaten the whole office with virus if she came. She’s thinks she carries the A H1N1 virus.

Tiffany rushed to the wardrobe department to find the appropriate outfits for the shoot. She already got the concept in her head and now she’s looking for the right pieces. She’s done choosing the clothes when Sooyoung came running towards her with a phone in her hand.

This better be good news.

“Tiffany!”

“How is it? Did you get the models for today?”

Sooyoung shook her head, and paused to catch her breath.

“I called every agency I could find but they’re all unable to provide models on such short notice.”

“What?!”

“I’m sorry, Fany. They said that the models are busy preparing for the winter fashion show.”

Tiffany walked slowly to the nearest chair and sit down weakly. She buried her face in her palm, trying hard not to cry.

“I’m doomed. Freaking doomed. That Jessica will be sooooo happy.” Tiffany said, her voice shaken.

Sooyoung shook her head at the sight; she never thought that Tiffany will give up that easily. She walked around the room, trying to think.

“Hey! Your boyfriend is a model! Maybe he can find a few female friends to help you out!”

Tiffany’s head jerked up. She looked at Sooyoung with wide eyes.

“Why didn’t I think of that before?! Thanks a lot Sooyoung!”

21

Page 22: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

She picked up her phone and press number one.

Baby, please pick it up.

She waited and waited but all she got was the dial tone.

“Pick it up, damn it!”

“The number you have dialled couldn’t be reached at the moment...”

Tiffany hangs up the phone and slams her hand on the table. Sooyoung was shocked by Tiffany’s sudden anger.

He didn’t pick up his phone. Why I’m not surprised?

“Now I’m really doomed.” Tiffany said with teary eyes.

Sooyoung looked out of the window, thinking.

“Don’t you have some model-like friends? Tall and slender kind..”

Tiffany stared at Sooyoung with wide eyes again.

“Stop looking at me like that, you’re freaking me out.”

“You’re a genius Sooyoung!”

Tiffany grabbed Sooyoung’s surprised face and gave her a peck on her right cheek.

“Hey, hey, what are you doing?”

Tiffany didn’t answer, she quickly dial a number.

“Who are you calling?”

“Help.” answered Tiffany, smiling.

**

“Is this what you called help?”

Sooyoung said, as she pointed at a girl on the makeup chair.

Tiffany looked up from her notebook.

“What’s wrong? Sunny is cute. Plus she can totally pull this winter outfit look.”

Sooyoung rolled her eyes.

“She’s short!”

22

Page 23: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Sunny turned to Sooyoung’s direction.

“Hey, I heard that!”

“Please stop talking, you’re ruining the makeup.” said Heechul as he’s trying to apply lipstick on Sunny’s lips.

“I’m not talking.”

Reply Sunny, oblivious.

Hecchul rolled his eyes. “Of course you’re not.”

A tall and beautiful girl entered the studio.

“Unnie!” shouted the girl, running towards Tiffany.

“You made it!” said Tiffany as she hugged Yoona tightly.

“I skipped my class for you!”

“I love you, cousin.” Tiffany said as she ruffles Yoona’s hair.

Yoona grins and hold Tiffany’s hand.

“I brought a friend, just in case you need another model.”

A beautiful girl with long dark hair bowed down to Tiffany.

“Hiii, I’m Yuri. I’m gonna let you exploit my beauty for today.”

Yuri said as she flipped her hair jokingly.

“Okay, now that’s what I call help.” Said Sooyoung, impressed at the beauties.

Tiffany laughs.

It’s going to okay.

**

The shoot ended around 6 pm. It turns out pretty well even though they’re using inexperienced models. Yoona and Yuri acted so natural in front of the camera while Sunny had a little difficulty working with the photographer, Sooyoung. She’s still pissed about being called short.

“Sooyoung-ah, I can take it from here. You can go home and rest.”

“Are you sure? I can stay if you want.”

23

Page 24: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You helped enough for the day. I don’t know how to thank you. Now go home and rest before I feel even more guilty.”

Sooyoung seems tired but she’s still able to smile.

“Are you okay with staying here by yourself? I heard this office is haunted..”

Tiffany slapped Sooyoung on her shoulder.

“Oww!..what’s that for?”

Sooyoung said as she rubbed the painful spot on her shoulder.

“For talking nonsense.“

Tiffany took Sooyoung’s bag from the table and shoved it to her.

“Now go home.”

**

Tiffany was looking through all the pictures they’ve taken earlier on her computer. There were about 200 pictures to choose from.

Suddenly her stomach growled. Tiffany tried to ignore it but it’s getting painful by every second. She left her chair and slowly walked to the couch. She curled up her body, trying hard not to cry.

When did I last eat?

She couldn’t really remember.

Tiffany reached for her phone and called for Minho. She waited and there’s nothing but dial tone. She called again and again but he’s still not picking up. She hangs up the phone and throws it on the other side of the couch. Tears started to roll down her cheeks.

She’s so frustrated. She can’t finish her work in this condition, her stomach is hurting. And it’s not helping that Minho can’t be reached when she really needed him. She can’t help but to cry. She looked up and was surprised to see Jessica standing by the door.

Tiffany hissed.

“Are you happy seeing me suffer?”

Jessica looked away.

Tiffany continued to cry despite Jessica’s watching. She didn’t care anymore.

“Are you okay?” Jessica said as she approached Tiffany.

24

Page 25: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica noticed that Tiffany was holding her stomach.

“Have you eaten?”

Jessica asked, her voice sounded concern.

Tiffany didn’t answer her, she continue to sob while pressing a hand on her stomach.

Jessica came closer and kneeled down to meet Tiffany’s teary eyes.

Tiffany avoided Jessica’s gaze.

“Stupid girl.”

Jessica took Tiffany’s right arm and put it over her shoulders.

“Stand up.” She ordered.

Tiffany stood up, even though she’s unsure of Jessica’s intention.

“Are you always touching people all of the sudden?”

“Shut up. I’m taking you to the doctor.”

**

“Where do you live? I can drive you home.”

Jessica and Tiffany are on their way back from the clinic.

“It’s okay, you can just dropped me at the office. I want to finish the design layout for tomorrow.”

Tiffany said as she looked out of the car’s window.

“You’re sick, there’s no way I’m going to let you work.”

Jessica sounded protective. Tiffany suppressed a smile.

“I insist. I don’t want to make myself look stupid in front of Joanne Jung tomorrow.”

Jessica ignored her.

“I wouldn’t be in this condition if you told me to do the layout a week ago.”

Jessica rolled her eyes.

“You missing meals have nothing to do with my orders.”

“You’re being ridiculous.” Tiffany said, her eyes wide staring at Jessica.

25

Page 26: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I’m the one who took you to the clinic. At least I deserve a little thank you.”

Tiffany scoffed.

“Okay, thank you. Now you got your thanks, can you take me to the office, please?”

Jessica bit her lip.

“Fine.”

**

They reached the office at about 9 pm. Tiffany put down her bag on the table and turned on her computer.

Jessica was standing by watching her working.

“You can go. I can drive myself home later.” Tiffany said, turned her head towards Jessica.

Jessica walked to the couch at the centre of their office and sat there, not responding to Tiffany’s question.

“I think I’ll stay here. Just in case, you need another trip to the doctor.”

Tiffany rolled her eyes. “Do whatever you want, you’re the boss.”

She turned her head to face the computer screen. She smiled. For some reason she feels safer in Jessica’s presence.

Silence filled the office. Jessica picked a magazine from the coffee table and flipped through it while Tiffany was busy with the design layout.

“Who is Tiffany?” asked Tiffany, breaking the silence.

Jessica was surprised at the sudden question shot at her.

“You are Tiffany. Wha..What a stupid question is that?”

Reply Jessica, a little stuttered.

Tiffany turned her chair around to face Jessica.

“You know what I mean.”

26

Page 27: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 5 – Reflexes

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Jessica was hoping that Tiffany will leave the subject.

“At the cafe, you mistook me as ‘Tiffany’. Who is she?”

Tiffany obviously not letting it go.

Jessica looked out of the window.

“Just, someone.” She replied short.

Silence falls upon them again.

“Do you think dreams can come true?” Asked Jessica, still looking at the window.

“Dreams? As in the future?”

“No. Dreams, as in the kind that you experience when you sleep.”

“Oh.”

Tiffany rolled her chair closer to Jessica.

“I don’t know. I hardly remember my dreams. Well, do you?”

Jessica turned her face to Tiffany. She nodded.

“I always have similar dreams.”

Tiffany was listening carefully, she’s curious to know where the conversation goes.

“The same person kept appearing in almost all my dreams.”

“Oh! Like the boogeyman?” asked Tiffany, bluntly.

Jessica shook her head.

“No silly, like, a girl.”

“Oh.”

“I’ve been dreaming of her since I was little.”

Jessica looked down, her expression was unreadable.

“She’s always there for me, whether I’m sad or happy.”

Jessica looks like she wanted to say something, but she’s unsure of it.

27

Page 28: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“It’s stupid but..

I fell in love with her.” Jessica said, slightly blushing.

They both kept silent.

“So er..is she still appear in your dreams until now?” Tiffany asked, attempting to break the awkward situation.

“No. I stopped dreaming of her since I met you.”

Tiffany froze. She didn’t know how to react.

“You know what’s funny though?”

Jessica looked up.

“She looks exactly like you.”

Jessica looked straight into Tiffany’s eyes.

“Maybe dreams do come true.”

Jessica smiled as she finished her last sentence.

This is the second time Tiffany ever seen Jessica smiling. She can feel the sudden increase of her heartbeat and the sudden heat on her cheeks. They’re locked in an intense eye contact, but none of them were trying to look away.

Suddenly, Tiffany’s phone rang.

Thank god!

She picked it up. It was Yoona.

“Unnie! Where are you?! Are you okay?!”

Yoona’s voice was so loud that it sounded as if Tiffany put her on speaker.

“I’m okay cousin, don’t worry about me, I’m at the office...

Jessica felt relieved after letting it out. She didn’t really understand it herself. She never thought that the girl of her dreams exist in real life.

Tiffany is exactly like the ‘Tiffany’ in her dreams. The way they talk, the way they laugh and the sparkle in their eyes are exactly the same.

Jessica lay on the couch with her face facing Tiffany.

One day, you’ll fall for me.

And soon she fell asleep.

28

Page 29: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

**

That night Jessica dreamt of Tiffany again. They were sleeping together on a white couch. Jessica felt so comfortable with Tiffany’s arms around her waist. Jessica examined Tiffany’s sleeping face.

It’s so beautiful.

Tiffany was wearing the same clothes she wore that day.

Eh?

Jessica froze.

This can’t be..

She has to check something. She pinched her own arm.

“Ouch!”

It hurts.

This can’t be a dream.

She looked at her watch, it’s 3:30 am. The computer was still turned on.

Tiffany moved closer towards Jessica’s chest. She soon buried her head at the crook of Jessica’s neck before started to snore.

So cute.

Jessica can feel her whole body heated up. It’s like the entire body is blushing. She never expected this to happen in reality.

She tightens her arms around Tiffany and put her chin on top of Tiffany’s head. Tears of happiness rolled down her cheeks.

“I love you.” she whispered slowly.

Jessica doesn’t want to close her eyes.

For the first time, she didn’t want to sleep.

**

“Tiffany, wake up.”

29

Page 30: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany can feel a warm hand shaking her shoulder.

She opened her eyes slowly. The first thing she saw was Jessica’s smiling face.

A smiling angel. Am I in heaven?

Jessica was sitting on the coffee table against the couch.

“What time is it?” Tiffany pulled her body up.

“It’s 7:15.”

Tiffany stared at Jessica with wide eyes.

“Gosh! Did I fell asleep last night?! I didn’t finish the layout yet!”

Tiffany panicked, she stood up and trying to get to her table but Jessica grabbed her arm.

“It’s finished. Don’t worry about it.”

“But..”

Jessica pulled up a large cardboard with the layout printed on it.

“When did I..?” Tiffany paused.

“You....finished it for me?”

Jessica didn’t answer the question, she kept looking at the cardboard.

“Who are these girls? New models?” asked Jessica, pointing at a picture on the cardboard.

It’s the picture of Sunny, Yoona and Yuri smiling happily while linking arms.

“Oh that, well...” Tiffany scratches her head, she didn’t know how to tell Jessica that they are not real models.

“Wait!”

Jessica suddenly shouted.

“Why?”

“I think I’ve seen her before..” Jessica pointed at Yoona.

“Let me guess, in one of your dreams?” Tiffany said, jokingly.

Jessica gave Tiffany a cold stare.

“Actually yeah. In my dream, this face came up in my nightmares.”

“Ahahaha, really?”

Jessica nodded.

30

Page 31: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Except that in my dreams, she’s a giant cucumber.”

“That’s a nightmare?” Tiffany chuckled.

“She was huge and she was chasing me! It’s terrifying!” Jessica said, recalling her nightmare.

She did look terrified.

Tiffany reached out her hand and gently patted Jessica’s head.

“Aww..poor thing”

She quickly jerked her hand back. She turned her head to her side and faked a cough. She’s cursing herself for all the reflexes that’s she’s been experiencing around Jessica lately.

What the hell is wrong with me?

Jessica chuckled at the sight of the blushing Tiffany that’s mumbling to herself.

“You two are so alike.” Jessica said, softly.

“Who?”

“You and ‘Tiffany’. Except that she’s much cuter.”

“Oh yeah?” Tiffany felt a little jealous.

She didn’t really understand it either, but there’s this warm feeling. It’s a pleasant feeling.

“Here, your favourite drink.” Jessica handed Tiffany a glass of milk.

“Thank you. How did you know that I love milk?”

“I..don’t. I’m just guessing.” Jessica looked away and took a sip from her own glass of milk. It’s kinda hard to explain to Tiffany that she already told her in one of her dreams.

Tiffany continued to look at Jessica. She looked so adorable drinking milk. Jessica put her glass down. Tiffany smiled as she saw the milk moustache on Jessica’s upper lips.

Tiffany could feel her body doing it again. All the voices in her head telling her not to, but it’s too late. Her right thumb was already landed on Jessica’s lips. She paused as she could feel Jessica’s eyes staring at her. Their eyes met, and once again the time seems to stood still.

Suddenly, her phone rang.

Tiffany pulled her hand and reached for the phone on the table. She picked it up without looking at the screen.

“Hello?”

“Baby! Where are you?!”

It was Minho.

31

Page 32: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Oh..oppa..”

Jessica’s facial expression changed as she heard Tiffany called the person on the other line sweetly.

Her heart, it hurts.

32

Page 33: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 6 – Homework

“You did this layout by yourself?”

A middle aged woman said as she lower her glasses to take a better look at Tiffany.

“Yes, she did it all by herself, auntie.” Jessica said with a smile.

Is she proud of me?

Joanne Jung nodded, her expression is unreadable. Tiffany was not sure if she liked it or not.

“This is amazing.”

Joanne said with a huge smile across her face.

“This design is so good, that we will run it for our next month’s issue.”

Tiffany can’t believe what’s happening.

“I never knew we have such talented young people in our company.”

Joanne looked at Tiffany and then to Jessica.

“You kids know about the upcoming winter fashion show, right?”

Tiffany and Jessica both nodded.

“I want you two to go and do the special scoop on it.”

“Auntie..are you serious?! That’s like the major end year event.”

“I have faith in both of you. Have fun.”

Tiffany felt like flying.

**

“What a beautiful couple..”

A few girls were gushing as they saw a young couple walking out hand in hand from the cinema.

“Isn’t that the guy from the Etude House CF? Oh my god, he’s so cute!” said a high school girl as they walked passed them.

Minho grins proudly.

“You’re getting famous now.” Tiffany said.

33

Page 34: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Minho looked at his girlfriend. “Jealous?”

“I’m not.”

Minho leaned down and kissed Tiffany’s head.

“Why are you so cute?” He said, smiling.

Tiffany chuckled, her face red.

They walked to the nearby park and sat at one of the wooden bench. They didn’t say anything, just enjoying each other’s company. Minho has been so busy lately that they hardly spend time together.

“Oppa, I’ll be going on a business trip.”

“Oh really? When?”

“This Saturday. We’ll be spending a night at the hotel.”

“We?”

“Me and..er..Jessica.”

“Your psycho boss?!”

“Don’t say that! She’s not a psycho.”

“Isn’t she’s the one who’s touching your face a few weeks ago?”

“She’s just... mistook me for another person.”

Minho looked away, he looked uncomfortable.

“Don’t go.”

Tiffany was surprised; she didn’t expect him to say that.

“Oppa, this is a great opportunity for me to prove myself to them of my potential.”

Minho kept silent.

“They don’t usually give this kind of opportunity to some rookie like me.” She added.

Minho looked down, his expression is unreadable.

“Just..don’t go.” Minho said, serious.

Tiffany stared at him, she felt so frustrated.

“You’re too much.” Tiffany said, her voice shaken.

“I’ve never stopped you from doing anything you want. You even went away for weeks and left me alone.”

34

Page 35: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You don’t even pick up my calls anymore.”

He snapped.

“How many times do I have to tell you that I was busy that day? I was at a signing event, they took my phone. It’s not like I was doing it on purpose!”

“Yeah right.” Tiffany rolled her eyes.

“That has nothing to do with this. I just don’t want you to be too close with your psychotic boss!”

Tiffany scoffed.

“She was the one who took care of me when I was sick the other day. I called you hundreds of times, and you didn’t even bother to pick up the phone or return my calls.” Tiffany said with teary eyes.

“And stop calling her a psycho. You don’t even know her.”

Minho was surprised at Tiffany’s defends on Jessica.

“I have to go.”

Tiffany stood up and was about to leave, but Minho grabbed her arm.

“Tiffany, don’t go.”

Minho stared into Tiffany’s eyes, begging her not to leave.

“Oppa, please.”

Minho slowly loosens her grip on Tiffany’s arm. Tiffany pulled her arm and walked away without even looking at him.

Minho watched as his girlfriend slowly disappeared from his view. His heart felt heavier with each steps Tiffany took walking away from him. He didn’t really understand it, but he felt like it’s the last time he’ll ever see her.

Baby, don’t leave.

**

Sooyoung was walking into the office with a big sandwich in her right hand. She stepped into the office and she saw a thing..

“Oh my god!” Sooyoung was so surprised that she dropped her sandwich on the floor.

“Who..what are you?!” she asked the thing.

“Hhhhu unnie, I’m Seohyun..hhhuu” Said the thing.

35

Page 36: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

*hhhhhu – breathing sounds

“Seohyun? Why are you wearing a gas mask?!”

“I..hhhhu..doesn’t want..hhhhhu..to risk everyone..hhhhu” Seohyun replied from under the mask.

“Then don’t come to work.”

“But hhhhu.. the doctor said I’m free of the virus..hhhhhhu.., but I just wanted..hhhhhu..to be safe.”

Sooyoung stunned at the alien-Seohyun.

Okay, this girl is officially crazy.

“Unnie..hhhhhu.. wear this.”

Seohyun handed Sooyoung a gas mask identical to hers.

Sooyoung looked at the mask and then to Seohyun.

“What? No! I don’t want to wear this!”

“You must wear it...hhhhu...for protection.”

“No!”

“Unnie, please..hhhu..wear it..”

Tiffany and Jessica were walking together towards the office as they accidentally met in the elevator. They went into the office.

“Oh my god what is that?!” shriek Tiffany.

Sooyoung and Seohyun turned towards the direction of Tiffany’s voice.

The sight was even more shocking than alien-Seohyun.

Tiffany was clinging to Jessica’s neck and had her head buried in Jessica’s hair. Jessica’s face was red as a tomato.

“Er..Seohyun, why are you wearing the gas mask?” Jessica asked coolly as Tiffany slowly turned around and let go of her arms around Jessica’s neck.

Seohyun was too stunned to answer, Sooyoung nudged her to speak. But it’s too hard for the alien.

“She’s afraid that she’ll contaminate us with her virus.” answered Sooyoung.

Jessica sighed.

“Take it off. Your mask is scaring people. Wear regular protection masks instead. There’s some on my table.”

“Uh, okay ..hhhhu.”

36

Page 37: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Seohyun opened her alien mask almost immediately. She gapped her mouth for air.

Sooyoung smirked at the power of Jessica’s order. But there are two things that she can’t help but wonder.

Firstly,

What happened between Jessica and Tiffany?

And most importantly,

What happened to my sandwich?

**

“Unnie, you look happy.”

Yoona was lying on Tiffany’s bed with her laptop as she watched her cousin packing for her business trip.

“It’s my first business trip, of course I’m happy.”

Yoona nodded as she watched her cousin folding a pink t-shirt. She turned her attention to the computer screen. She’s doing a little research for her homework.

“Unnie, do you believe in soulmates?”

Tiffany stopped folding her shirt and turned to look at Yoona.

“Why you’d asked?”

“Homework stuffs. You gotta help me here. You have more experience on this topic than me.”

Tiffany sighed.

“Well, I do believe that everyone will find their soulmate, or true love eventually in life.”

“Like you and Minho? I mean, is he your soulmate?”

“Well, I guess so since we’ve been dating for 5 years now and we have plans to spend our lives together and all..”

“You’re saying that he’s your soulmate because you’ve date him long enough?”

“I...

“So..if you date someone long enough, they’ll be your soulmate?”

37

Page 38: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“It’s not like that, Yoona.”

“Enlighten me.”

Tiffany sat on her bed, trying to think.

“Like, how can you tell that you’ve find the one?”

Tiffany let her mind wanders.

“I think you know..

..when you feel safe when you’re with that person.”

“And the confusing but pleasant feelings you felt for them.”

“And the happiness you felt, every time you see them smiling.”

“Or the unexplainable reflexes you have when you’re around them.”

“It’s like your body is taking control over your mind, and there’s no rationality left.” Tiffany chuckles.

Yoona looked at Tiffany as she noticed that her cousin slowly blushing.

“Unnie, have you found your soulmate?”

Tiffany looked down.

“I...I..don’t know.”

“Okay, I think you’ve helped me enough.”

“Did I?”

“Yes.”

Yoona climbed down from the bed taking the laptop with her.

“No wonder you’re so happy about going to this business trip..”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“Your new boss..

“B..but she’s a girl!”

“So? To be honest, I’m not really fond of Minho. I’m sick of seeing you hurting because of him.”

“Yoona..

“Like last year..

“Let’s not talk about this anymore.”

38

Page 39: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 7 – Scenes

“I’m sorry, but you didn’t make any reservation.”

Tiffany and Jessica were at the hotel lobby, trying to check in.

“Are you sure? Can you please check again?” Jessica asked, there’s anger in her voice.

“I’ve checked it three times already, sorry but your name is not on the reservation list.” The receptionist sounded annoyed.

Jessica sighed and turned to look at Tiffany that’s standing behind her. She was reading the hotel brochure.

“Are you sure you already made the reservation, Tiffany?”

Tiffany looked up.

“Me? I thought you made the reservation?” ask Tiffany, blankly.

“What? I thought you did.”

“You didn’t ask me to.” Reply Tiffany, innocently.

“Well, you should know yourself if we’re going to stay somewhere, we need to make a reservation.” Jessica said, trying to control her anger.

“This is my first business trip, how should I know?”

Jessica rolled her eyes. “My god, Tiffany..”

“You should make the reservation yourself instead of blaming me.” Tiffany said, nonchalant.

“I’m your boss!” Jessica noted, her voice was quite loud.

“Well, that’s why you should!” Tiffany replied, with louder voice.

“Uhmm..” the receptionist clears his throat.

Tiffany and Jessica stopped arguing.

“So er..do you have any rooms left? We need two rooms please.” Jessica said to the receptionist.

He checked at the computer and shook his head.

“I’m sorry, we only have one room left.”

One room?

There were so many random imaginations running through Jessica’s mind at the thought of her and Tiffany spending the night in the same room. She blushed.

39

Page 40: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Er, excuse me, Miss. Do you want the room?”

“Hey, are you sick? Your face is red.” Tiffany nudged her red-faced boss.

“What? No, I’m not sick.”

“So Miss, do you want the room? It’s double bed though..”

“We’ll take it!” Reply Jessica, almost immediately.

**

“Tiffany, are you done yet? The show starts at 8, we need to get there now.”

Jessica asked as she tapped the bathroom door.

“I’m almost done.”

The bathroom door opens; Tiffany steps out with a huge smile on her face.

Jessica stunned at the sight. Tiffany was wearing a pink skirt with a white shirt. It was simple but it looks perfect on Tiffany.

“Okay boss, let’s go!” Tiffany took Jessica’s arm and drags her towards the door.

They arrived there around 7 pm, Tiffany was so excited she can’t stop talking.

“Oh my god, did you see that? It’s gorgeous!” Tiffany said, pointing at some random piece of clothes for the nth time.

Jessica wasn’t complaining, Tiffany was linking her arm with her the whole time. She’s just enjoying the warmth.

“Wow, that is gorgeous!” Tiffany said as she walked towards a mannequin.

“Where are you going? Stay close to me.” Jessica grabbed her hand.

Jessica intertwined her fingers with Tiffany’s. Tiffany felt the sudden rush of blood to her face. She looked down, at their joined hands. It looked so perfectly together. As if, Jessica’s hand was made to match hers. She smiled.

They continued to hold hands until they arrived at the backstage.

“Okay, I want you to interview as many models as you can. I will interview the designers; we’ll meet again after we’re done.” Jessica gave her orders to Tiffany.

Tiffany nodded.

“Tiffany.”

40

Page 41: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Yes.”

“Can you let my hand go now?”

“Oh, sorry.”

Tiffany lets go of Jessica’s hand, for some reason she felt sad for letting it go. It felt so comfortable. Too comfortable.

**

“Cheers!”

Jessica and Tiffany were in their hotel room. They got great scoop on the fashion show and now they’re celebrating it.

Tiffany drink her glass of champagne in one go. Jessica was impressed at Tiffany’s ability to handle her drinks. Tiffany poured for another glass. Jessica just looked at her.

“Why don’t you drink?” Tiffany asked.

“I..did drink.”

Tiffany smiled mischievously, “You can’t handle your liquor?”

“No! It’s not like that.” Jessica felt challenged.

Jessica grabbed her glass full of champagne and drink it all. She put her glass down on the table. She looked a little tipsy.

“See, I’m capable of handling my drink!”

“Aaaah!”

Jessica collapsed, on top of Tiffany, with her lips touching Tiffany’s. Tiffany can taste the flavour of Jessica’s lipstick, it’s strawberry.

Her lips on mine?

Her body on mine?

Oh my.

Tiffany was blushing madly; she tried to wake Jessica up.

“Hey! Wake up, you’re crushing me!”

No answer. Jessica had passed out.

41

Page 42: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Hey boss!”

Jessica snored. Tiffany sighed.

Tiffany slowly pushed Jessica and laid her on the couch. She lifted Jessica’s head slowly and put a pillow beneath it. Then she took off Jessica’s shoes and put them on the floor. She took a blanket and cover Jessica’s body with it. She stroke Jessica’s blonde hair carefully. She kept on watching Jessica sleeping for almost 15 minutes, smiling.

What am I doing?

She shook her head and climbed onto the bed, trying to sleep.

**

Tiffany woke up that night, by the sudden comfortable warmth around her waist. She opened her eyes, it was Jessica. She didn’t know how or when Jessica climbed up onto the bed. Jessica had her arms around Tiffany’s waist. Tiffany wasn’t sure what to do, should she slowly pushed Jessica’s hand away? Or should she just enjoy the comfort? Tiffany had her eyes on Jessica’s lips. She felt so tempted to taste it again. She lifted up her right hand and traced Jessica’s lips with her fingers.

What’s wrong with me?

What are you doing to me Jessica Jung?

Why am I feeling like this whenever I’m with you?

Why..are you so beautiful in my eyes?

Tiffany kept on staring at Jessica’s sleeping face until she fell asleep.

**

It’s the last day before Jessica and Tiffany returned back to Seoul. They decided to have breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant before heading back. They both ordered milk.

Jessica took a sip of her milk. Tiffany’s thumb is already there wiping Jessica’s mouth even before she put down the glass.

“Sorry, I..

Tiffany was blushing.

Jessica smiled. “It’s okay, I think I can get used to this.”

42

Page 43: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You’re like my personal human napkin.”

Tiffany chuckled.

“Actually, I owe you an apology.” Tiffany said.

“For what?”

“For calling you a freak, and spilling milk on your coat.”

Jessica laughs.

“Well, I was acting kind of freakish that day, it’s not entirely your fault.”

“But still, I feel guilty for humiliating you in front of the people. Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?”

Jessica paused and think.

“If you insist, there is something you can do.”

“What is it?”

“I’ll tell you later.” Jessica reply, with a smile.

**

“It’s still early to head back, let’s take a walk.” Suggest Jessica.

“Okay.”

They walked through a park near the hotel. The weather was cold, since it’s almost winter. Jessica can see that Tiffany was shivering.

“Are you cold?” She asked.

“A little.”

“Should we go back?”

“No, it’s okay.”

Jessica held Tiffany’s hand. Tiffany felt warm.

They sat down at a park bench, still holding hands.

Suddenly, a white flake fell down from the sky on Tiffany’s hand.

Tiffany and Jessica looked at each other, knowing what it meant.

43

Page 44: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“It’s the first snow!” shriek Tiffany.

“Yeah.” Jessica said, smiling.

More snow started to fall. It’s a beautiful sight.

“Hey Tiffany.”

“Hmm.”

“You said that you’ll do anything to get my apology.”

“Yes. Do you have anything in mind?”

Jessica grinned.

“I want you to make one of the scenes in my dreams come true. Then I’ll forgive you.”

“Okay, what is the scene?”

“Here it goes. The last time I dreamt of ‘Tiffany’, we were sitting on a park bench. And it was snowing.”

“Like we are right now? Done.”

Jessica nodded.

“We were holding hands.” Add Jessica shortly.

Tiffany lifted her joined hand with Jessica and pointed at it.

“Duh. That was easy.”

“Then she kissed my forehead..” Jessica paused.

Tiffany looked into Jessica’s eyes. She hesitated.

Then she leaned forward and kissed Jessica’s forehead, so gently as if Jessica was so fragile. Jessica closed her eyes at the sensation of Tiffany’s lips on her skin. She held her breath.

Tiffany swallow her own saliva. Her face red. “Okay, done.”

“Then she kissed me. On my lips.”

Tiffany stared at Jessica, her eyes were serious. Then she shifted her attention to Jessica’s lips. They looked tempting. Tiffany was considering whether she should just kissed Jessica.

“I’m just kidding.” Jessica said.

Tiffany laughs nervously, she felt a bit disappointed. She clears her throat.

“Uhh..am I forgiven now?”

“Yes. But you still have to pay for the dry cleaning.”

44

Page 45: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 8 – Awkward

“We’re going to have 2 kids joining us from today.” Jessica said to the whole office.

“Kids?” ask Sooyoung and Tiffany simultaneously.

“2 college students chose our office for their project on design department. They’ll be here for four weeks, to do an observation and such. Treat them nicely and feel free to bully them around.” Jessica added, half serious.

Seohyun is the happiest upon hearing the news. She cleared two tables for the ‘kids’. Tiffany thinks it’s cute that she’s excited to meet new friends. Sooyoung thinks Seohyun just feel relieved because now she won’t be the only one bullied.

**

“Nice to meet you!”

The two girls bowed in unison. All four of them, Tiffany, Jessica, Seohyun and Sooyoung stared at the girls in front of them. Each of them had different expressions on their faces.

Seohyun: Excited

Sooyoung: Mischievous (or was that hunger?)

Tiffany: Pleasantly surprised

Jessica: Terrified

“Yoona! Why didn’t you tell me that you picked my office for your college work?”

Tiffany said, hugging Yoona tightly.

“I wanted to surprise you.” Yoona grinned happily.

“Hey, we meet again.” Yuri said to Sooyoung as she flips her hair.

“Yeah..did you bring food?” Reply Sooyoung, flat.

“Eh?”

“You’ll get used to it.” Seohyun said, smiling.

45

Page 46: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica kept on staring at Yoona, her face pale. Nobody seems to notice it, except Tiffany.

“Are you okay?” Tiffany asked, softly.

“Cu..cu..cumber..”

“What is it?”

“Giant cucumber...” Jessica said, her wide eyes.

Yoona reached out a hand for a handshake, “Nice to meet you, Miss Jung. I’m Yoona.”

Jessica kept staring Yoona’s hand with wide eyes. She didn’t even able to say anything. Cold sweats formed on her forehead.

“Will you excuse us for a while?” Tiffany said, dragging her pale-faced boss along with her.

They entered an empty meeting room. Tiffany asked Jessica to sit down on a chair.

“Yah, snap out of it!”

Tiffany snapped her fingers in front of Jessica, hoping that she will be back to her normal self.

“She’s my biggest nightmare...” Jessica looked up to look at Tiffany, her face terrified.

She’s so damn cute when she’s scared.

“Hey, that’s not a cucumber, that’s my cousin Yoona. There’s nothing you should be afraid of..”

Jessica looked down, silent.

“..she’s not even wearing a cucumber suit, she’s not so giant either. It’s okay.”

Jessica still kept silent.

Tiffany reached out her hands and hugged Jessica tightly. Jessica was surprised by the action, but she’s not resisting it.

“Why think of your nightmare when you can think about your sweet dreams?” Tiffany said, her voice was so soft, it’s almost like she’s whispering.

Tiffany gently ran her hands through Jessica’s blonde hair.

“Think about ‘Tiffany’. She’s not scary.”

Jessica can feel her face heated up.

“I’ll be jealous if you’re afraid of Yoona. It’s like you care about her more than me..I mean, ‘Tiffany’.” Tiffany continued.

Tiffany released Jessica from her hug and looked into her eyes.

“So don’t be afraid of her anymore. You’re the boss, she should be afraid of you.”

46

Page 47: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica silently nodded.

“Thank you, Tiffany.” Jessica said, smiling.

Tiffany can feel her heart beat faster upon seeing the smile.

“No problem, boss.”

Jessica intertwined her fingers with Tiffany and gaze into her eyes.

“Stop calling me boss, in private.”

“O..okay.” Tiffany replied, blushing.

Suddenly the door burst open.

“Hey Tiffany!” Sooyoung shouted. Then she paused, surprised at the sight in front of her.

Jessica and Tiffany were holding hands and gazing lovingly into each other’s eyes.

What is going on here?

Aware of Sooyoung’s presence, Tiffany quickly let go of Jessica’s hand, her face slightly flustered.

“Don’t you know how to knock, Choi Sooyoung?” Jessica asked, cold.

“I’m sorry, Miss Jung.”

“What’s up Sooyoung?” Tiffany asked, to break the tension.

“Uh, our model for today’s shoot has arrived, a very hot male model. I think you’re gonna love this one.”

“Oh yeah?” Tiffany walked straight towards the door before stopped.

“Aren’t you coming?” Tiffany offered her hand to Jessica.

“Sure.” Jessica said, taking her hand.

**

Okay, this is awkward.

“Umm..oppa, I didn’t know that you’re our model for today’s photoshoot.” Tiffany asked, to start a conversation.

“I was called at last minute since Jang Geun Seuk couldn’t make it..” Reply Minho, short.

Silence and awkwardness filled the air. They hadn’t talked to each other since the incident at the park.

47

Page 48: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica walked towards them, she wasn’t even aware of Minho’s presence there.

“Hey Tiffany, can you grab a few accessories from the wardrobe room? For some reason, I don’t really agree with their choices..” Jessica said as she naturally reached out her hand to fix Tiffany’s bangs, lovingly.

Minho stared at the sight, his eyes wide.

Okay, this is VERY awkward.

Tiffany cleared her throat.

“Uh, Jessi..er..Miss Jung, this is our model for today, Lee Min Ho.”

“Oppa, this is my boss, Miss Jung Jessica.” Tiffany introduced the two.

Jessica looked at Minho, with mixed feelings.

Minho reached out his hand forward for a handshake.

“Nice to meet you, I’m Tiffany’s BOYFRIEND.” Minho noted. Loud and clear.

Jessica scoffed. She looked at Minho’s hand but not touching it.

“Well, I’m Tiffany’s BOSS.” Jessica rolled her eyes and leave.

**

“Oh my god, he’s so cute!”

Heechul is applying makeup on Minho’s perfect face. He’s blushing.

He’s so hawt!

“Er..Heechul oppa. Why is his lips purple?” ask Seohyun as she pointed at Minho’s lips.

Heechul just realized that he accidentally put on purple lipstick. He was too stunned at Minho’s face.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I guess I just have to do you again.”

Minho stared at Heechul.

“I mean, do your lips.” Heechul chuckled as she caress Minho’s face gently before winking.

Minho had goose bumps all over his body. He just wished it to be over quickly.

Is he flirting with me?!

“You two make a cute couple.” Said a voice.

48

Page 49: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Minho looked at the direction, it was Yoona.

“What are you talking about?” Minho said, slightly pissed.

“Keep on flirting with him, Heechul oppa. It’s not that hard to get him in your pants.” Yoona said, her tone serious.

“Shut up, Yoona.”

Yoona glared at Minho and left.

“This kid..” Minho hissed.

**

“Are you free tonight? Let’s have dinner together.”

Minho had just finished the shoot. He was leaning at the wall while looking at his girlfriend doing her work in front of a computer.

Tiffany didn’t know what to answer. For some reason, she’s not in the mood to face Minho.

“Er..oppa..

Tiffany was struggling for an excuse to say no.

“Don’t even think of going home early today, Tiffany. I want you to finish your work by tonight.” Jessica said.

Minho rolled his eyes.

“Don’t you think you worked her too much? What is she? Your slave?”

Minho confronted Jessica. He was clearly trying to be a hero.

Jessica glared at him.

“It’s okay oppa. I have to finish this. We’ll have dinner some other time.”

Tiffany tried to calm Minho down.

Minho sighed.

“Fine, if you say so.”

Minho walked to Tiffany and planted a quick kiss on Tiffany’s lips. “I’ll call you.”

Tiffany can’t help but think that he was doing it on purpose, to show off in front of Jessica.

After Minho left, Tiffany turned around and met Jessica’s eyes.

49

Page 50: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You can go home if you want.” Jessica said, her voice soft.

“I’d rather be with you..I mean, I rather stay here and finish my work..

..with you.” Reply Tiffany.

Sooyoung was standing at the door and accidentally saw the whole incident. She frowned.

**

“Don’t stay here too late unnie, and please come home tonight.” Yoona said before winking.

Tiffany laughed. “Don’t worry, just don’t forget to leave me some food if you cook anything.”

“We’ll be going now.” Yuri said, flipping her hair.

Yoona and Yuri left the office linking arms.

Sooyoung and Tiffany were the only ones left in the office.

“Hey, I guess I’ll see you tomorrow?” Sooyoung said.

“Sure, take care.”

Sooyoung was about to leave but she stopped by the door and turned to face Tiffany.

“Fany-ah.”

“Yeah?”

“You should just stick to the one that’s real.”

Tiffany looked at Sooyoung, puzzled.

“Life is not a fantasy.”

“What are you talking about?” Tiffany asked.

Suddenly Jessica entered the office, with two glasses of milk in her hands.

Sooyoung forced a smile, “Never mind.”

50

Page 51: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 9 – Hurt

“And done!” Tiffany shouted happily. She finished editing the photos for that day.

Jessica chuckled at the sight of hyper Tiffany who’s getting ready to go home.

“Hey, human napkin, come here for a second.” Ordered Jessica.

“Human napkin?”

“Yes, come here. I need you.”

Tiffany walked to Jessica’s desk.

“Why are you calling me a human napkin?” Her face confused.

Jessica smiled and then pouted, “I have a milk moustache.”

“So?” Tiffany asked even though she knew where this conversation is going.

“I need my human napkin.” Jessica continued to pout.

It’s one of the rare sides that Jessica only showed to Tiffany.

“You’re enjoying this too much, don’t you?”

Jessica nodded, still pouting.

Awww..so cute.

Unable to resist, Tiffany wipe Jessica’s lips with her thumb. Jessica was staring at Tiffany the entire time. Tiffany, feeling eyes on her, looked back. Their eyes met. At that instant, something happened. It was like there’s a magnetic force between them. Their heads moved closer. Tiffany unknowingly had her eyes staring at Jessica’s luscious lips. The next thing they know, their noses were touching each other. Jessica can feel Tiffany’s hot breath on her face. She moved her head closer to Tiffany’s, their lips almost touching. At the same time, Tiffany saw a picture on Jessica’s desk. It was from Minho’s photoshoot.

Tiffany pulled her body away, and took a few steps back. Jessica was surprised but she kept her cool.

They both kept silent.

“Jessica.” Tiffany suddenly said.

“I have a boyfriend.”

Jessica shook her head.

“I guess I got it when he told me that loud and clear the first time.”

Silence filled the air again.

51

Page 52: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I..have to go, I’ve finished my work anyway.” Tiffany said as she grabbed her bag.

“Yoona is probably worried about me right now and..

“Tiffany.”

Tiffany paused.

“Do you love him?”

No answer.

“Do you love him?”

“I..I..

Tiffany sighed and leave without an answer.

**

“Hey kids.” Jessica called.

Everyone looked up.

“Did someone say cheese?” Sooyoung asked.

Jessica stared at Sooyoung in disbelief.

“I said, kids. I meant Yoona and Yuri. Maybe it’s time to get your ears checked, Sooyoung.”

The whole office laughed. Sooyoung face was red, embarrassed.

“Madam Joanna wants you girls as models for the new photoshoot.” Jessica said.

“She really liked your work the last time.” She added.

Yoona and Yuri were so excited; they were looking at each other and doing silent cheers with their hands.

“Lucky brats.” Sooyoung said, smiling.

“And ..uh..

Jessica struggled hard to finish her sentence. She cleared her throat and continued.

..Tiffany.”

Tiffany looked up. “Yes, Miss Jung.”

Jessica felt like a stab through her heart every time Tiffany called her officially.

52

Page 53: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Called up your short friend, they wanted her too.”

“Sunny?”

“Yeah, whatever her name is.”

“Okay, Miss Jung.”

Stop hurting me.

Jessica stood up and walked towards the door. She stopped at Sooyoung’s desk.

“Here, eat well.”

She put a slice of cheese on the desk and leave.

Sooyoung grinned.

“Thank you, boss!”

**

“Seohyun, what are you drinking?” Sooyoung asked as she saw Seohyun drank something from a small bottle during lunch break.

“Oh unnie! You should buy this too!” Seohyun showed a bottle of what looked like tonic.

Sooyoung took the bottle and read the label aloud.

‘HAIR TONIC. SECRET TO BEAUTIFUL FAST GROWING HAIRS.”

“What is this?!”

“Yuri sold it to me, she said that this is good for hair growth..

..and also for your inner strength.” Seohyun finished her sentenced and winked.

Sooyoung stunned and speechless.

Inner strength?

“Unnie, taste it, taste it!”

“No! I don’t want to drink some weird hair tonic!”

“Try it, I think you need this. Your hair is falling off.”

“What?!!”

Yoona and Yuri entered the office linking arms.

53

Page 54: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Yah Yuri! Why are you selling tonic in this office?!”

Yuri stared at Sooyoung and then smiled.

“Oh, you heard about it? You should buy it too. You obviously need it.”

“No, I don’t!”

“I mean, the healthy hair is like mine. Look at my hair, it’s long and shiny. It’s all because of the tonic.”

Sooyoung can’t take anymore of the health freak/business minded/hair narcissist act so she came up with a plan.

“Hey, you know who you should sell it to?” Sooyoung said, seriously.

“Who?”

“Our boss.”

“Are you serious?”

Sooyoung nodded.

“I heard she got hair problems. I mean, she dyed her hair blonde way too often and now they’re falling off.” She added.

“She will totally buy this. A reliable source said that she’s looking for some remedy to her problem. It’s serious.” Sooyoung continued.

“Oh..” Yuri said, nodded.

Jessica walked into the office.

“Miss Jung!” Yuri shouted almost instantly.

Jessica was surprised as Yuri suddenly jumped out in front of her.

“I heard about your problem.”

Sooyoung close her mouth with both hands, trying to suppress her laugh. Seohyun and Yoona stood and stare, stunned.

Jessica raised an eyebrow. “My problem?”

Yuri walked slowly to Jessica’s ears and whispered, “Your hair problem.”

Jessica stay silent and looked at Yuri, she’s confused as to how to react.

Yuri took out a bottle of tonic and showed it to Jessica.

“This is good for your hair..

54

Page 55: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Are you going to stop this nonsense yourself? Or do you want me to stop it?”

The office’s temperature dropped drastically. Seohyun suddenly sneezed.

“Do you want me to pull your hair off?” Jessica continued.

Yuri’s face was as white as ghost, “No.”

Jessica looked around the office, “Have anyone seen Tiffany?”

“I think she went downstairs, Miss Jung.” Yoona answered.

Jessica nodded and head out of the office.

A few seconds after Jessica left, the whole office except Yuri exploded with laughter.

Yuri stare at Sooyoung furiously, “You tricked me!”

**

Jessica entered the elevator and pressed G. It didn’t take long for her to reach the ground floor. The elevator slowly opened, she saw Tiffany was talking to someone right in front of the door.

“Hey, Tiffany!” She shouted happily.

She walked towards Tiffany and then paused when she saw the person Tiffany was talking to, Minho.

“Oh, Miss Jung. Are you looking for me?” Tiffany asked with a ‘normal’ tone.

Jessica can feel her heart slowly breaking as Tiffany spoke to her in the official manner.

Minho stared at Jessica as she walked, Jessica glared at him.

“Well umm..Not really.” Jessica replied, her voice weak.

“I need to go back early today, is that okay?” Tiffany asked.

“We have dinner date.” Minho added. Loud and clear.

Jessica felt like sealing his mouth with a tape.

Minho intertwined his hands with Tiffany. Tiffany felt extremely awkward and guilty. She didn’t want anyone to get hurt.

“Sure, have fun.” Jessica said as she turned her back on the couple and walked towards the opposite way. Her chest felt heavy, her heart is breaking and unable to contain her emotions, tears rolled down her cheeks. She walked faster, as she felt Tiffany’s eyes on her. She ended up running.

55

Page 56: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany watched as Jessica ran away, she knew she had hurt her. She wanted to run to her, she wanted to hug her, and wipe away her tears. But she didn’t. Instead, she held tight to Minho’s hand.

Jessica, I’m sorry.

56

Page 57: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 10 – Pieces

“I had a great time.”

Minho said to Tiffany as he walked her to the front door. They just returned from their dinner date.

“Hmm.” Reply Tiffany, weak.

They had their fingers intertwined with each other. Minho leaned closer and planted a soft kiss on Tiffany’s ear.

“You know, we’ve been together for a while now..” He said. Tiffany stood still.

“ I think it’s time for us to take our relationship to the next level.” He added with his eyes staring straight into Tiffany’s. “We’re at that age.”

“What do you mean?” Tiffany asked, feeling uneasy with the whole conversation.

“Marriage.”

Tiffany was shocked with his answer.

Why suddenly marriage?

“I already decided to spend the rest of my life with you.” Minho said, his expression serious.

Tiffany looked down, trying to find the right words to say.

“Oppa.” Tiffany said, as she slowly looked up.

“What if..” Tiffany paused. She’s trying to gather her strength to let her words out.

....what if we’re not meant for each other?”

Minho was shocked, his eyes wide.

“..that’s ridiculous..

..we’re made for each other, remember?” Minho said as he held Tiffany’s hand and played with the ring on Tiffany’s finger. It’s their couple ring.

Tiffany let go of Minho’s hand, “I mean, what if we were wrong about it?”

Minho gritted his teeth, “Stop it.”

“What if we’re meant for other people but not each other?”

“Stop it.” Minho said, but Tiffany kept on going.

“Maybe...

..I’m not your soulmate.”

57

Page 58: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I said stop talking nonsense, damn it!!” Minho slammed his hand on the door. Tiffany was shocked, she had never seen Minho like that. She’s scared of him.

Minho grabbed Tiffany’s face with both his hands and forced his lips on Tiffany’s. It was a rough one-sided kiss. Tiffany tried to push him away, but he’s too strong. She lifts her right hand and slapped Minho on his face with all her might.

Minho finally stopped. He looked hurt. His heart hurt. His pride hurt.

Tiffany didn’t know what to do, her hand is painful from the slap she gave the jerk in front of her. Tears rolled down her cheeks.

Minho looked into Tiffany’s teary eyes, searching for an answer.

Why?

“You.. He paused.

..you fall in love with that bitch.” He finished his sentence, even though it hurt him deeply.

Tiffany stared at Minho, trying to process what he’s saying.

Love?

Suddenly the door opened, Yoona was standing there.

“What’s happening?!” Yoona looked at her cousin and anger fuelled inside of her.

Tiffany rushed inside the house and left Minho and Yoona.

“Tiffany!” Minho called.

Yoona grabbed Minho’s collar, “What did you do to her, you bastard?!”

Minho pushed Yoona away, not saying anything. He glared at her and drove away with his car.

“Asshole!” Yoona shouted.

**

Tiffany rushed into her room, not bother locking the door. She buried her face in the pillow and cried her heart out. The whole incident had drained all her energy. She felt so exhausted and confused.

Yoona came into the room, “Unnie, are you okay?” She slowly walked to Tiffany’s side and sat on the bed. Yoona gently rubbed her cousin’s back, hoping that it will ease her sadness.

“Yoona..” Tiffany said as she lifted her head from the pillow.

Yoona looked at her cousin, her eyes soft, “It’s okay, you can tell me anything.”

58

Page 59: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I think...I just dumped him.” Tiffany said, sobbing.

Yoona nod her head, “It’s okay.”

“What did I just do?”

“Something that you should do long time ago.”

“But..is this right?”

“Unnie, just follow your heart.”

“Huh?”

“Stop thinking about all the logics, and your lifetime plan for once and..

...just, let your heart decide.”

Yoona use her fingers to wipe the tears on her cousin’s face. She pulled her into a hug.

“Follow your heart.”

**

That night was the first time Tiffany dreamt of Jessica.

They were at an ice skating rink. They held hands and skating together so beautifully with happy smiles on their faces.

They stopped as they both reached the centre of the rink. They looked into each other’s eyes, ignoring everything else that’s going on around them.

Slowly Tiffany pulled Jessica’s body closer to hers. She held Jessica’s face with both of her hands, their foreheads touching.

“I love you.” Tiffany said before she kissed Jessica passionately.

Tiffany eyes shot open, her heart beating fast. She realized that she’s on her bed alone. She touched her lips, remembering the taste of the kiss she had with Jessica in her dream. She smiled. She hardly remembered any of her dreams, but tonight she did. And it was the sweetest dream she ever had.

**

59

Page 60: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You’re up early today, cousin.”

Tiffany was surprised to see Yoona already set up the table for breakfast.

“Let’s have breakfast together.” Yoona grinned.

The breakfast was simple, a glass of milk for Tiffany and a bowl of cereal along with it.

Tiffany sat down and was surprised to see the content of her bowl.

It was milk with a few alphabet-shaped cereals floating forming a sentence.

‘F-O-L-L-O-W . Y-O-U-R. H-E-A-R-T’

Tiffany spelt it silently. ‘Follow your heart’.

Tiffany smiled, “Thanks cousin, but I need more cereal.”

**

Tiffany arrived at the office with a hope to meet Jessica, but when she got there she’s still hasn’t arrived.

“Hey Fany, there’s a message on your table.” Sooyoung called.

‘Follow your heart’ said a note written with pink ink on Tiffany’s desk. Tiffany smiled as she knew the handwriting very well.

Yoona.

“Hey unnie, there’s a note on your desk too.” Seohyun called.

“Follow your...

...appetite.” Sooyoung read it aloud.

“Who wrote this on my table?!!”

Seohyun and Tiffany shook their heads, “We didn’t know.”

Sooyoung looked at the note again and found a strand of a perfect long black hair next to it.

“Yuri!!”

**

60

Page 61: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Where is Jessica?” Tiffany asked to Sooyoung.

Sooyoung raised her eyebrow, “Jessica?”

Tiffany nodded.

“That sounded intimate. The way you say her name, like that.”

Tiffany was caught off guard, “Intimate? What are you talking about?”

“What is going on?” Sooyoung asked, serious.

“Nothing is going on. You’re weird.”

Sooyoung shook her head, “You’re the one who’s weird. I’ve never seen you like this.”

Tiffany looked at Sooyoung, confused.

“You’re always so rational and logic but what you put yourself into is anything but.”

Suddenly Jessica arrived looking slightly messy. Ignoring her staffs, she sits at her desk. She looked out of the window. There’s no emotion in her eyes.

“Where are the kids?” Jessica suddenly asked.

“They have modelling job.” Reply Seohyun.

“Oh.” Jessica stood up and walked towards the door. Tiffany and Sooyoung were standing there. Jessica walked pass Tiffany acting like she didn’t even exist. Tiffany felt a little hurt as she smelled Jessica’s scent as she walked by.

Vanilla.

**

The kids returned to the office after lunch. ‘Kids’ is the best word to describe the two. Jessica tried to be cool and serious but she can’t help but laugh as she saw Sooyoung stumbled as she was trying to catch Yuri.

Tiffany on the other hand, doesn’t even care about the kids and Sooyoung. She’s been staring at Jessica every time she thought Jessica didn’t notice. She felt like a stalker, but she did it anyway.

Beep.

Tiffany checked her phone, there’s a new message. It was from Yoona.

Tiffany chuckled as she read the message. It was a screen full of the same sentence, ‘Follow your heart’. She looked up to look at Yoona. Yoona was making a heart above her head and pointing at Jessica.

61

Page 62: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany smiled. Maybe it’s time she should just, follow her heart.

Tiffany pulled out her mirror and checked herself. She stood up and took a deep breath. Slowly she walked towards Jessica’s desk.

“Excuse me, Miss Jung.”

Jessica looked up, she seems surprised.

“Yes.” She took off her glasses.

Tiffany wanted to say something, but she’s too nervous. It’s the first time she’s doing what she’s about to do.

The whole office gave their attention to the two. They’re all curious of what Tiffany’s about to say. Even Yoona have no idea.

“Are you free after work?” Tiffany asked, her face red.

“Er..I’m not sure, why?”

Tiffany looked down, “Well, I was wondering if you want to go ice skating with me?”

“Way to go, unnie.” Yoona said silently.

“Oh my god.” Sooyoung said aloud.

Jessica stared at the blushing Tiffany, still shocked by the sudden approach.

Did she just ask me out?!

The idea of going ice skating with Tiffany is great. It’s like a dream come true. Jessica really wanted to say yes. But she’s still hurt. What happened yesterday really drained Jessica emotionally. As much as she loves Tiffany, she just wanted to take revenge on her this one time.

“I’m sorry. I can’t go.”

“Why bother asking me when you can go with your boyfriend.” Jessica said, with a glare.

Tiffany can feel her heart is breaking. Pieces by pieces it dropped to the ground. She turned around and left the office, without saying a word.

Yoona wasn’t expecting that to happen. “How could you?” She said to Jessica before rushed out to Tiffany.

Jessica put on her glasses and pretended to be busy. But her mind is still on Tiffany.

What did I just do?

62

Page 63: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 11 – This

Tiffany was walking alone in the park. She stormed out of the office without taking her coat. It’s freezing cold, but she can’t feel anything as her heart is hurting.

Tiffany looked up as she heard people voices around her. She realized that she had walked until she reached the ice skating rink. She smiled.

“Only one pair?”

“Yes.”

“Where’s your date? I’m sure a pretty girl like you have a boyfriend.” The man said as gave Tiffany a pair of skates. Tiffany gave him a weak smile.

Tiffany is pretty good in ice skating, she and her mom used to skate together when she was little. She circled around the rink looking at the people around her. Most of them came in pairs, holding hands and smiling happily. Tiffany can’t help but felt jealous. She wished she’s with someone right now. A face appeared in her mind.

Yes, that person. And that person only.

Jessica.

Tiffany stopped as she reached the centre of the rink. Suddenly snow started to fall. She looked up and closed her eyes enjoying the coldness of the snow. She can feel the snow dropped on her face.

It’s cold but, she wanted the cold to ease her pain.

Suddenly the snow stopped falling on her face.

Eh?

She slowly opened her eyes. There’s a hand over her face. The hand covered her face from the snowfall. Tiffany turned around to see the owner of the hand.

“Je..Jessica?”

Jessica smiled but she still kept her hand over Tiffany’s head.

“Stupid napkin, you’ll get sick.”

“What are you doing here?” Tiffany asked, still surprised.

“I’m your personal human umbrella.” Jessica answered, short.

“I don’t understand..”

“The giant cucumber told me everything.”

63

Page 64: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Here’s your coat.” Tiffany kept staring at Jessica as she put the coat on her.

“ Stop staring at me like that. I’m here now.” Jessica said.

Jessica took Tiffany’s hand, “Let’s skate.”

They held hands and circling the rink together. Both with happy smiles on their faces. Tiffany had so many questions she wanted to ask Jessica, but she forgot all of them as she saw Jessica’s smile.

They reached the center of the rink and Tiffany pulled Jessica to stop.

“Let’s take a break.” She said.

They just stood there, not saying anything.

“I dream of you last night.” Tiffany said, breaking the silence.

Jessica seems surprised, she hadn’t dream of Tiffany for quite a while.

“Oh really? What was the dream about?”

Tiffany looked at Jessica, “We were at the ice skating rink.”

“We were skating together.” She added.

“Okay. That sounded familiar.” Jessica said, with a laugh.

“Then we stopped at the centre of the rink.”

Tiffany took both Jessica’s hand and stare into her eyes.

“And then we looked into each other eyes, like this.”

Tiffany stopped talking. Jessica wondered why.

“And then what happened?”

“This.”

Tiffany held Jessica’s face with both of her hands and pressed their lips together.

Jessica’s eyes were open, she didn’t expect this at all. But the taste of Tiffany’s lips is probably the best thing in the world. She slowly closed her eyes and savours the kiss of her dreams.

Tiffany broke the kiss and said, “I think..I’m in love with you.”

“Finally.”

Jessica said before pulling Tiffany for another sweet kiss.

**

64

Page 65: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Is this really happening?”

“I think so.”

“Please pinch me, I need to check that this is not a dream.”

...

“Ouch!!”

“You said to pinch.”

“Not that hard!”

Sooyoung and Seohyun were watching their boss. She seems different from any other day. She’s been smiling since morning. To see their boss’s smile is like waiting for a miracle to happen.

“What year are we in? Is it 2012 already?” Sooyoung asked.

Jessica suddenly stood up and walked to Tiffany’s desk.

“Tiffany, let’s go eat something. I’m hungry.” She said, aegyo implied.

Tiffany looked at Jessica lovingly, “But Jessica, I still have some work to do.”

Jessica held Tiffany’s hand and intertwined their fingers together.

“I’ll help you finish them later.” Jessica said, smiling.

“Okay.” Tiffany just can’t resist that smile.

The girls left the office hand in hand leaving the others with surprised look on their faces.

“This can’t be real..” Sooyoung said, her mouth hanging.

“They make a cute couple.” Said Yuri.

“A match made in heaven.” Add Yoona, smiling.

Sooyoung turned to face the two, she stared at them in disbelief.

“You two can’t be serious.” She said.

“I can’t believe you guys..” she added as she shook her head and left the office.

“What’s wrong with her?” asked Yuri.

**

“You want to come over to my house later tonight?” Jessica asked as she gently stroke Tiffany’s hair.

65

Page 66: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Your house?”

“There’s someone I wanted to show you to.”

“Show me to someone?”

Jessica nodded.

**

“I’m home!” Jessica yelled as she opened her front door.

Tiffany stepped into Jessica’s house with her mouth open, stunned at the size and the luxury of it. A house is not the word to describe the place. A mansion is more suitable.

“Come on.”

Jessica pulled Tiffany’s hand as she dragged her upstairs.

“Who else are in the house?” Tiffany asked, curious.

“Oh, my parents and my sister.” Reply Jessica.

“But my parents are not home since they’re in States right now, doing some business thingy.” She added.

“Your sister?”

“She’s home.”

“Or not.” Tiffany said as she pointed at a note pasted on the door, ‘Sleepover at Sulli’s house.’

“This kid..” Jessica sighed.

“Actually I wanted to show you to her.”

“Why?”

“To prove that my dream is real.” Jessica said as she pressed Tiffany’s hand.

Jessica opened the door to her bedroom.

“Come inside, make yourself at home.”

Jessica’s room is huge. It’s probably the size of 2 of her room and Yoona’s room joined together. Tiffany scanned the room as she walked in. It’s huge, nice, and luxurious and yet somehow Tiffany felt comfortable. Maybe it’s the scent. Jessica’s scent, her favourite scent in the world.

“You sure read a lot.” Tiffany said as she saw a big rack of books at the corner of the room.

66

Page 67: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I love reading. Wait here.” Jessica said before went out of the room.

Tiffany sat on the bed, and picked up a photo frame on the desk. It’s a picture of a little girl.

I think I’ve seen her before..

Tiffany put back the frame as Jessica came back smiling with two glasses of milk in her hands. She handed a glass to Tiffany and sat beside her before she took a sip of her milk.

“So, if your parents are in States and your sister is at her friend’s place, that means..

“What?” Jessica asked, puzzled.

..we’re the only ones in the house.”

Jessica stared at Tiffany. They stay that way for a few seconds.

“Did you plan this?” Tiffany asked, raising an eyebrow.

“What are you talking about?! I’m not like that!” Jessica looked away, started to fan herself with her right hand.

Tiffany laughed at the sight of her blushing girlfriend.

“Big deal. We’ve slept together before. Twice.” Tiffany said.

“You just loooove to hug me when I sleep.” tease Tiffany.

“Look who’s talking! You’re the one who creep onto the couch at the office when I was sleeping.” Jessica said, her face red.

Tiffany kept staring at Jessica’s mouth.

“Milk.” Tiffany said, pointing at Jessica’s lips.

“What?”

“Your cute milk moustache.”

“Well, do your job, napkin.” Jessica said, closing her eyes and pouted her lips to Tiffany.

Tiffany smiled; she’s not going to wipe it with her fingers this time. It’s time to improvise.

As Jessica closes her eyes can feel something wiping her mouth. It’s not the usual napkin, it’s something much better.

Jessica wrapped her arms behind Tiffany’s neck as they kissed.

I love milk.

“OH MY GOD!!” shouted a voice.

Jessica and Tiffany quickly let go of each other and turned to the direction of the voice.

67

Page 68: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

A girl is standing by the door, her face pale.

“Krystal? What are you doing here?!”

68

Page 69: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 12 – Friend

“OH MY GOD!!” shouted a voice.

Jessica and Tiffany quickly let go of each other and turned to the direction of the voice.

A girl is standing by the door, her face pale.

“Krystal? What are you doing here?!”

Krystal was too shocked to say anything, she kept staring at Tiffany.

“I thought you’re at Sulli’s house..” Jessica said as she walked towards Krystal.

Tiffany stood up, she’s not so sure how to react when she just got caught kissing the girl’s sister.

She’s going to hate me.

Krystal pushed Jessica aside and walked towards Tiffany. Her eyes didn’t even blink. Tiffany was worried of her reaction.

“What are you doing?!” Jessica said as she watched Krystal touching Tiffany’s face with both her hands.

It’s no doubt that they are sisters.

“Ouch!”

Krystal pulled Tiffany’s cheeks.

“Hey, you’re hurting her!” Jessica grabbed her sister’s hand.

“How did you do it?” Krystal suddenly asked.

“Do what?”

“Making PillowFany came alive.”

“PillowFany?” asked Tiffany, puzzled.

“Oh it’s..ummmph!”

Jessica quickly covered her sister’s mouth with her hand.

“Don’t listen to her. It’s nothing. Hahahaha.” Jessica laughs nervously as she dragged her sister to the door.

Krystal pushed her sister’s hand.

“She’s been making out with the pill..aaah!”

Jessica pulled her sister’s left ear.

69

Page 70: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“She even drew your face out, that’s how I know you’re PillowFany.” Krystal said as Jessica released her ear.

Suddenly Krystal hugged Jessica tightly before hugging Tiffany even tighter. She walked backwards towards the door, smiling widely. Her eyes were teary.

“Tiffany, you just walked out of her dreams and into her life. I was afraid that she will die alone waiting for her soulmate to come.” Krystal giggled and wiped her tears.

“That’s not funny..”

“Now that I’m relieved, I shall go find my own soulmate.” Krystal said as she pulled the door knob.

“Have fun.”

“I will.” Reply Tiffany, waving.

“My sister is a good kisser.” She winked before closing the door.

“I know.” Tiffany winked back at her.

“Krystal!!” Jessica wanted to strangle her but she’s already gone.

Tiffany chuckled at what just happened.

“Okay, that’s my sister.”

“Well, she’s interesting.”

“Interestingly annoying.”

Tiffany laughed and held Jessica’s hand.

“So you showed me to her.”

“Yeah.”

“So that means I have no reason to be here anymore.”

“Yeah...No! I mean no!”

Tiffany smiled.

“You..want me to stay?”

Jessica was blushing madly and nodded.

“So you did plan this afterall..”

“I want you to be my personal human pillow.”

“To replace PillowFany?”

Jessica giggled as she climbed on the bed and slid into the covers.

70

Page 71: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Okay, but under one condition.”

“What is it?”

“I want you to be my...personal human blanket.” Tiffany said, shyly.

**

“Sooyoung, can you help me with this? Jessica wants it by today.” Tiffany said as she handed Sooyoung a file.

Jessica? Hmmph.

“I’m sorry Tiffany, I have my own work to finish or else I might get scolded, unlike someone.” Reply Sooyoung, not even looking at Tiffany.

“Sooyoung?”

“I’m busy. Go bother other people like the boss or something.”

The words were harsh. It hurts even more when it came from a friend.

“O..okay, I’m sorry I bothered you.” Tiffany said as she turned to sit at her desk. She can’t help but wonder why Sooyoung acted like that.

“Tiffanyyy!” shouted Jessica as she entered the office.

“Hey, Jessi. How’s the meeting?”

Jessica reached Tiffany’s desk slightly panting.

“Did you run all the way here? What’s the rush?” Tiffany said, gently patting her girlfriend’s back.

“Huge emergency.”

“What is it?”

“Jessica Jung had been away from Tiffany Hwang for 4 straight hours.” Jessica answered, smiling.

Tiffany stared at Jessica’s face, blank.

“I missed you, napkin.” Jessica said, intertwined her fingers with Tiffany.

“So you ran?” Tiffany gently caressed Jessica’s cheek.

“It’s hard to breathe without you around.”

71

Page 72: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

**

“Unnie, let’s go home!” Yoona dragged her cousin.

“Wait.”

“Are you going on a date with Jessica again tonight?”

“No, I wanted to talk to Sooyoung for a while. Can you wait for me in the car?”

“Sooyoung?”

Tiffany nodded. “It won’t take long.”

“Okay.”

**

“Sooyoung wait!” Tiffany called.

Sooyoung stopped and turned to the direction of the voice.

“Tiffany?” Sooyoung said as she saw Tiffany walked towards her.

“Hey, what’s up?” Tiffany said, waving to her friend.

“Well, didn’t we just met?”

“Yeah, but..how are you?”

Sooyoung stared blankly at Tiffany.

“I’m kinda in a rush, so if there’s nothing important you want to say, I have to go.”

Tiffany stared blankly at Sooyoung, not sure how to begin.

“Okay then, see you tomorrow.” Sooyoung turned to leave.

“Wait!”

Sooyoung turned around, annoyed. “What is it Tiffany?”

“Well, umm. We’ve been friends for some time..

“Since college, why?”

..and we’ve always been honest with each other.”

72

Page 73: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Sooyoung looked away, knowing where the conversation will lead.

“If you’re mad at me or anything, you can just tell me about it. I don’t want any hard feelings between us.”

Sooyoung stay silent.

“Did I offend you in anyway?”

“Was it something I did, or something I said..”

Sooyoung sighed.

“It’s not that simple, Fany-ah.”

Tiffany looked at Sooyoung, her expression is serious.

“Why are you doing this?”

“What?”

“Dumping Minho and then hooking up with Jessica.”

Tiffany was shocked.

“I didn’t mean to pry into your personal life, but..as a friend, I can’t help but..worry for you.”

“What do you mean?”

Sooyoung rolled her eyes, “Jessica? Seriously?”

Tiffany felt a little offended.

“Why not? I love her.”

Sooyoung laughed. “Love? Are you kidding me?”

“I’m serious.”

“It’s not love. You’re just using her to forget your boyfriend.”

“It’s not like that..

“It could be infatuation, or obsession..but that is NOT love.”

“You don’t know what you’re talking about.” Tiffany defends herself.

“Are you willing to give your future away? After years of planning your life..”

“My future?”

“What about your dream family? Your pink house with a garden and a dog?”

“I..I..

73

Page 74: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“What about having children? And a husband?”

Tiffany couldn’t come out with any words to say to Sooyoung.

“Why don’t you say anything? You know I’m right.”

Tiffany looked down, confused.

“What about your mother?”

Tiffany looked up upon hearing her mother mentioned.

“Will she be happy with this?”

Sooyoung felt like she’s saying something inappropriate.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to talk about your mother..”

Tiffany looked away, there are tears in her eyes.

“That girl, Jessica. She’s hot and all that but I’m pretty sure that she’s just toying with your emotions.”

“Enough, Sooyoung.”

“I just don’t want you to get hurt.”

“I said, enough.”

“Fine. You can hate me if you want. Is it wrong for me giving an advice for a friend?”

Tiffany looked into Sooyoung’s eyes, they are sincere, like always.

“Before you get carried away, I think it’s better for you to stop it now.”

Sooyoung put a hand on Tiffany’s shoulder, gently caressing it.

“I’m saying this because I love you and I care about you..

..because you are my friend.”

74

Page 75: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 13 – Sick

“Unnie, why are you still in bed?”

Yoona opened her cousin’s bedroom door and found her still in bed.

“I don’t feel like going to work today.”

Yoona walked to the bed, “Why?Are you sick?”

“Yeah, I am. Just go without me.”

Tiffany said from under the covers. Yoona feels that something is wrong.

“Open the covers, let me see your face.”

“I’m fine, Yoona. Just go.”

Yoona wasn’t satisfied with the reply. She pulled the covers.

“Un..unnie?”

Yoona was surprised to see that her cousin’s eyes are red, as if she had cried hard.

“What happened?” Yoona sat next to Tiffany, holding her hand.

“Nothing. Just go or you’ll be late.”

“Unnie..

..what did Sooyoung said to you?”

Tiffany kept silent.

“You know cousin, what matters the most is what you believe..

..and what you really feels. No matter what people say.”

Tiffany sighed. “Do you think Jessica really....love me?”

Yoona stared at her cousin blankly.

“Is that even a question? She made it so obvious of her feelings for you. I think even our office’s guards and cleaners know she loves you.”

Tiffany chuckled.

“Sometimes I wonder if I made the right decision.”

“What?!”

“Okay, you’re late. Go now. You don’t want to be scolded by my girlfriend.”

75

Page 76: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“My future sister-in-law.” Yoona add, winking.

Tiffany laughed. “Hope so.”

“You’re not coming?”

“I just want to rest today, and get my mind straight again.”

“What should I tell Jessica?”

“Come up with anything. And don’t let her come here.”

“Okay.”

Yoona turned and walked towards the door. “Don’t cry anymore, cousin.”

“I’ll try.” Reply Fany with a weak smile.

**

“Hey Sooyoung, what did you say to her?”

Yoona stormed into the office and walked towards Sooyoung.

“What are you talking about?”

“You made my cousin cry. What did you say to her?”

Sooyoung sighed.

“Things she should know. Not some fantasy stories.”

“You just don’t like them together don’t you?”

“There’s no future for them together. They won’t be happy.”

“Who are you to decide that? Are you god?” Yoona’s voice sounded angry.

“Whoa relax, okay.”

“I don’t care who’s she with, as long as she’s happy.”

Sooyoung scoffed. “Even with some spoiled blonde girl?”

“She’s been through so much, can’t she have at least a piece of love and happiness?”

“Yoona, you’re too young to understand this. Sometimes love is not enough.”

“You dare call yourself her friend?”

76

Page 77: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“What the hell are you talking about?” ask Sooyoung, furious.

“Can’t you at least be happy for her?”

“And you dare call yourself her family member?” Sooyoung asked back.

Yoona stared at Sooyoung, her eyes wide.

“Okay, relax, let’s not fight about this..” Seohyun tried to calm them down.

“Yoona-yah, let’s get something to eat.” Yuri trying to drag Yoona away.

“I’ve never seen her this happy since her mother passed away.” Yoona said, staring at Sooyoung.

“She was happy with Minho.” Sooyoung said.

Yoona rolled her eyes. “Five years with that bastard was a waste of time.”

“He cheated on her.” Add Yoona.

“But..

Suddenly Jessica came into the office, smiling. “Morning, everyone.”

Everyone tried to act normal. Yuri flipped her hair all of the sudden.

Jessica didn’t notice the tension between Yoona and Sooyoung. She walked towards her desk and sit there. As she sits, Sooyoung sat at her chair while Yoona was dragged by Yuri to their place. Jessica scanned the office, even though there were 4 people it feels empty to her.

“Where is Tiffany?” Jessica asked.

Nobody answered.

“Yoona, where’s your cousin?”

Yuri nudge Yoona to speak, “Oh..she’s er..not coming today.”

“Why?”

“She’s...sick.”

“What?” Jessica stood up upon hearing the word sick. She looked very worried.

“She caught a cold? I should visit her..” Jessica grabbed her bag.

“No! It’s a rare disease..you can’t visit her.” Yoona’s attempt at lying is fail.

“Rare disease? What is it?”

“It’s er..H1N1?”

Jessica grabbed Yoona’s hand and dragged her towards the door.

77

Page 78: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Where are we going?”

“Your house.”

**

“You know, Miss Jung. We really don’t have to come to our house..”

“Are you crazy?!”

Yoona shocked at the sudden outburst.

“Why did you leave a sick person all alone? How if something bad happened to her?!”

Jessica was driving like crazy, and had her eyes on the road.

Yoona can’t help but smile.

You’ve made the right decision, cousin.

“What are you smiling at?! Put this on!”

Yoona stared at Jessica, confused.

“I don’t think it’s necessary for us to wear this..

“I said put it on!”

“Just put it on, Yoona.” Said a voice came from the backseat.

Yoona and Jessica looked at each other and then turned their head to the backseat.

“Yuri?! What are you doing here?!” asked Yoona and Jessica simultaneously.

Yuri scratched her head, looking guilty, “Oh come on, I can’t be away from Yoona.”

Yoona smiled while Jessica shook her head as she concentrated on the road.

“Whatever, just make sure you put THIS on.”

**

Tiffany was watching the TV in the living room when she suddenly heard her front door bursts open.

“Who is that?”

78

Page 79: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

She walked slowly towards the front door, holding tightly to the remote control.

“Oh my god!”

Tiffany was greeted by 3 strangers wearing gas masks, they looked dangerous.

“Get out of my house!” She shouted as she waved the remote control to defend herself.

The 3 masked strangers moved closer to her, she’s terrified.

“Back off, I know taekwondo!”

“Hhhuu..unnie it’s us...hhhhu”

One of the masked strangers opened her gas mask, it was Yoona. Tiffany looked at another masked girl who’s flipping her hair. “Yuri?”

And then the blonde masked girl, “Jessica?”

“Why are you guys wearing gas masks?” Tiffany asked, puzzled.

Suddenly masked Jessica pull Tiffany’s arm and dragged her upstairs.

“Hey!” Tiffany was shocked but she followed her anyway.

Jessica slowly pushed Tiffany on her bed and put a blanket over her. Tiffany just stared blankly at her.

“Sick..hhhu..people should..hhhuu..stay in bed.”

“Hhhhu..do you need anything?”

Tiffany didn’t say anything.

“Should we...hhhu...take you to..hhhu...the hospital?”

Tiffany shook her head.

“Anything..hhhu..you need?”

“One thing.”

“What..hhhu?”

“Take off the gas mask.”

Jessica took her mask off. Tiffany laughed.

“Where did you get the gas mask anyway?”

“Seohyun.”

Tiffany continued to laugh while Jessica stared at her.

79

Page 80: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Hey, are you really sick?”

“I was. But I’m okay now. All healed.”

“That was fast. How come?”

“I’m all healed once I see your face.” Tiffany smiled.

Jessica chuckled, she can feel her face heating up.

“So you’re not sick.”

“Wait..I think I’m sick again.” Tiffany stared at Jessica’s face, serious.

“I feel cold.” She added, shivering.

“Oh, you need more blankets! Where are the blankets?!” Jessica panicked.

“Here.”

“Where?!” Jessica started to looked around, hands touching the closets.

“Right here.”

“Where?!”

“In front of my eyes.”

Jessica looked around and then stopped. She looked at Tiffany. Tiffany was grinning happily.

“Me?” She pointed a finger at herself.

“Come here my personal human blankieeee..” Tiffany called as she open her arms waiting for the blanket to come.

Jessica smiled sweetly as she climbed onto the bed and wrapping her arms around Tiffany. Tiffany adjusted her position so that she can face Jessica. She then wrapped her arms around Jessica’s neck and pulling it forward for a kiss.

“No. Sick people can’t kiss.” Jessica said as if it’s a law.

“Says who?”

“Says...uh..

It’s too late for Jessica to argue, Tiffany’s lips already landed on Jessica’s strawberry flavoured lips.

I don’t care if I get infected with H1N1 like this.

**

80

Page 81: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Where is Jessica?”

Joanna Jung shook her head as she asked the question for the nth time. The whole board is waiting for Jessica to start the meeting.

“Let’s just start without her.” Said one of the board members.

Joanna nodded weakly. She looked pissed.

How dare she miss the board meeting?

81

Page 82: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 14 – Future

“Do you love me?”

“Of course I do.”

“You will never leave me, right?”

“Never ever.”

Tiffany hugged Jessica tighter.

“Why are you asking me all these? It’s like you don’t trust me.”

“You’re too beautiful.” Tiffany said as she gently caresses Jessica’s cheeks.

“You can easily leave me for another.”

Jessica quickly stood up from the bed. “How can you say that?”

“I’m just saying.” Reply Tiffany.

“You think I’ll cheat on you?”

“Who knows?” Tiffany shrugged.

Jessica frowned. “You don’t trust me..

Jessica turned around and walked out of the room, leaving Tiffany alone.

“Honey, come back!” Tiffany called as she realized she had upset Jessica.

She climbed down from the bed and about to follow Jessica when she heard Jessica’s voice.

“TIFFANY! HELP!”

“Jessica?”

Then she saw Jessica came running towards her, both hands in the air, as if she was chased by ghosts.

“Honey?”

Jessica kept running towards Tiffany, not slowing down.

“Hey! You’re going to crash on me!”

“AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!”

Both of them fell to the floor with Jessica on top.

Tiffany felt dizzy, and slowly opened her eyes. “Jessi, are you okay?”

82

Page 83: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

No answer.

Tiffany then realized that Jessica’s face had accidentally fallen on her chest.

Oh my god.

Tiffany froze and closed her eyes.

“Look, they’re making out on the floor.” Said a voice.

Tiffany opened her eyes, she saw Yoona and Yuri giggling.

“It’s NOT what it looks like!”

“Yeah right. They’re not making out, they’re playing doctor!”

Tiffany blushed. “Shut up!”

“Jessi, wake up.”

No answer. Jessica had passed out.

“I wonder why she freaked out like that.” Tiffany said as she stood up.

She stared at Yoona and Yuri in front of her, her eyes wide.

“Why...”

“What?”

“WHY ARE YOU TWO WEARING CUCUMBER SUITS?!”

Yoona and Yuri looked at each other.

“For fun.” They said simultaneously.

**

Tiffany gently wiped the sweats on Jessica’s forehead, with Jessica’s head on her lap.

Jessica slowly opened her eyes.

“CUCUMBER!”

“Hey, hey it’s okay, I chased the kids away.” Tiffany held Jessica’s hand.

“They’re gone?”

Tiffany nodded. “It’s okay now.”

83

Page 84: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica let out a relieved sigh and turned to Tiffany. She wrapped her arms around Tiffany’s waist and rested her head on Tiffany’s shoulder. They stay that way in silence for a few minutes.

“Hey Jessi, I’m sorry.”

“For what?”

“Doubting you and all that.”

“Don’t worry. I forgot it all.”

Silence falls upon them.

“Hey Jessi.”

“Hmm.”

“How do you picture your future to be like?”

“My future?”

“Yes.”

Jessica held Tiffany’s right hand and drew a heart shape with her finger.

“You.”

“Hmm?”

“You are my future.”

Tiffany smiled.

I made the perfect decision.

**

Jessica looked down as she knew she’s in a big trouble. She’s in the office of her aunt, Joanna Jung.

“Just because this company belong to your family doesn’t mean you can do anything you want.” Joanna said, serious.

“Do you know how embarrassed I was back there?”

Jessica stays silent.

“My own niece missed the important board meeting?”

Joanna sighed.

84

Page 85: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I told them that you will take over this company when I’m retired. You make me look like a joke.”

“I’m sorry, it was an emergency.”

“Emergency? Yeah right.” Joanna rolled her eyes.

“Leave. I have nothing to say to you anymore.” She said, not looking at Jessica.

Jessica bowed and turned to leave.

“I’ll be watching you.”

**

“Who’s going to the company’s trip?! It’s at a ski resort!” asked Seohyun, excited.

“I am!” Sooyoung said, equally excited.

“Miss Jung, are you going?” Yuri ask, innocently.

“I hate crowded places.” Reply Jessica, cold.

“Really? Because we’re all going.”

“My cousin included.” Add Yoona.

Jessica looked at Tiffany, “You’re going?”

“Yeah, I love trips! And snow! And Ski!” Tiffany reply, excited.

“I heard all departments will be there, including some hunky male models!” Sooyoung just couldn’t contain her excitement.

“Yeah!” Shouted Yoona and Yuri. Seohyun just smiled shyly at the thought.

Male models? Around Tiffany? Without me?

Jessica cleared her throat.

“I’m going too.”

**

85

Page 86: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Bright pink jacket?” Jessica asked as she raised an eyebrow in disapproval.

Tiffany and Jessica were at the SPAO store, shopping for the upcoming trip.

“You should buy the yellow one.” Tiffany said, as she handed Jessica the jacket.

“No! The colour is too bright!”

“It’ll be easy for us to find each other if we lost in the snow.” Reasoned Tiffany.

“That will never happen.” Jessica said confidently.

“I will never leave your side.”

**

“Wow, this place is amazing!” Yuri shouted.

They had arrived at the ski resort. Almost everyone in the company was going, so the place is crowded with people.

“Why did I even come?” Jessica sighed.

“Oh come on, it will be fun!” Tiffany linked her arm to Jessica and dragged her.

Jessica walked with Tiffany, her steps are weak.

“Oh honey, how long are you going to continue to sulk like this?” Tiffany asked.

Jessica pouted.

“Don’t give me that look.”

“Let’s get out of here, just the two of us..”

Tiffany stared at Jessica.

“That sounded perverted.”

“What?!”

Tiffany chuckled at Jessica’s reaction.

“Jessica? Is that you?” a man voice called.

Jessica and Tiffany turned to the direction of the voice.

A tall and handsome man was standing not too far from them and waving at them.

86

Page 87: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Oppa?!” Jessica sounded excited.

Jessica let go of Tiffany’s hand immediately and ran towards the man. She hugged him tightly.

“Okay, that is a little too friendly..” Tiffany was not pleased with what she’s witnessing.

“Oh PillowFany, you should be worried.” A voice came from behind.

Tiffany quickly turned around.

“Krystal?! What are you doing here?”

87

Page 88: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 15 – Decision

“Krystal?! What are you doing here?”

“I’m on a family vacation.”

Tiffany looked at her, confused.

“Didn’t my sister tell you?”

“Tell me what?”

“She’s so modest.” Krystal sighed.

“This resort, belong to the Jung family.” She said as she pointed her hand at the buildings behind her.

Tiffany was shocked; she’s not sure how to react. She had no idea that Jessica’s family is this rich.

Krystal pats Tiffany’s shoulder slowly.

“Don’t care about that. That guy is the one you should worry about.” She pointed at the man.

Tiffany looked at the man; Jessica is chatting happily with him. Her eyes sparkle.

And she said she hate being here.

“Who is he?”

“Daniel Henney, the only man who can possibly turn my sister as a straight woman.”

Tiffany felt uneasy hearing the words.

Jessica hasn’t met Daniel in quite a while. Meeting him there was a very nice surprise. Daniel and his family is a close friend of the Jung family. They had known each other since they’re young.

“Oppa, you should visit me often!”

“I’m sorry Jessi, I’ve been quite busy with the new projects coming up and all..”

“I missed you, oppa!”

Tiffany somehow heard the last sentence. It felt like a bullet just went through her heart. She slowly turned around and left. She can’t take it anymore.

“Hey, PillowFany. Where are you going?” Krystal tried to stop Tiffany from leaving.

Tiffany kept walking, leaving Krystal behind.

“I forgot to tell you that my sister only think of him as her brother..” Krystal said, but Tiffany already too far to hear it.

88

Page 89: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Oh my, he’s hot!” Yuri shriek as she saw a few male models walking by.

Yuri, Yoona, Seohyun and Sooyoung were sitting at the resort’s cafeteria.

“Is there a space for one more person?” a voice said.

“Sunny!” They all said at once.

Sunny grinned happily. “Happy to see me?”

“Yeah, long time no see midget.” Sooyoung greets.

“Oh look, it’s the I’m-so-tall-so-I-act-bitchy, Sooyoung!”

Sooyoung glared at Sunny.

“Unnie, you’re not working today?”

“I’m on leave. The business had dropped since Tiffany didn’t have her usual glass of milk at our restaurant anymore.” Sunny joked.

“She found something better than milk.” Yuri said, smiling.

Sooyoung rolled her eyes.

Seohyun was out of the drama that’s playing live on their table. She kept staring at one person.

He’s so beautiful..

A cupid happened to flew by and saw Seohyun’s behaviour. He shot an arrow at Seohyun. And that’s how she fell in love with Hyun Joong. Seohyun can feel her cheeks became hot and her heart beating fast.

“Hey, are you okay?” Sooyoung asked.

Seohyun froze, her face red but still staring at the guy.

“I think she got H1N1 again..” Yoona said.

Yuri looked at the direction that Seohyun had been staring at. She saw the cause.

“Oh no, this is worse than H1N1.”

Everyone turned to Yuri, including Seohyun herself.

“This is LOVE.” Yuri said, with a mischievous smile.

“What are you talking about?!” Seohyun stood up and turned to leave.

“AHH! I’m sorry.” But she ended up bumping onto Hyun Joong.

“Oh, it’s okay.” He said, with a smile.

89

Page 90: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Are you guys thinking what I’m thinking?” Yuri said suddenly.

“Food?” Sooyoung replied.

Yuri shook her head.

“I think Seohyun need our help.”

“Help?” Sunny asked.

**

“To attract a guy’s attention, you must create the chance.” Yuri said to Seohyun, with a serious tone.

“What?”

“You can’t just sit around and hope that fate will lead you to him. You must do your part.”

“I don’t understand..”

“There. He’s all alone. Now is your chance!” Yuri pointed at Hyun Joong who’s walking alone in the lobby.

“What? No! No!” Seohyun shook her head in denial.

“It’s now or never.” Add Sunny.

“Go talk to him.” Sooyoung said even though she still doesn’t understand why she agreed with Yuri’s plan in the first place.

“What should I say?!”

“Ask him about the weather.”

All of them looked at Yoona.

“What? I’m just trying to help.”

“Hurry up, he’s leaving!”

“Ask him about food!” With that final sentence from Sooyoung, Seohyun was pushed by her friends and bumped onto Hyun Joong, again.

“I’m sorry!” Seohyun bowed, she’s so embarrassed.

“It’s okay.” He said. He looked at Seohyun. “We met earlier right? At the cafeteria?”

Seohyun slowly looked up, her face red.

“Yeah..ahaha.”

90

Page 91: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Well, see you around.” Hyun Joong turned to leave.

“said something!” voices came from behind.

“Er..wait!” Seohyun called.

He turned. “Yes?”

Seohyun cursed herself for calling Hyun Joong. She didn’t have anything to say to him. Hyun Joong kept staring at her, waiting for her to speak.

“Ask him about food!”

Sooyoung’s voice echoes in her head.

“FOOD.”

“Excuse me?”

“FOOD is important.”

Hyun Joong stared at Seohyun, confused.

“Human needs FOOD to survive.” Seohyun felt stupid but the words came out by itself.

Hyun Joong chuckled.

“Can’t argue with that.”

Suddenly they hear a familiar voice.

“So oppa, I’ll see you tonight?”

They shift their attention from Seohyun to the direction of the voice. It was Jessica talking to a man.

“Yeah, sure.” Daniel reply, short.

Daniel hugged Jessica lightly, before leaving her at the lobby. Jessica was grinning happily.

Sooyoung rolled her eyes.

“I wonder where Tiffany is.” Sooyoung said as she looked at Yoona.

“I hate to say I told you so.” She added. Yoona glared at her, but she can’t help but worry about her cousin.

“Why you hate them being together so much? Tiffany is obviously happier with Jessica.” Sunny said.

Sooyoung scoffed.

“You’ve been hurt before or what?” Sunny asked.

Sooyoung stared at Sunny, “Don’t act like you know everything, midget.”

91

Page 92: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Tiffany!” Jessica called as she saw her girlfriend outside of her room.

Tiffany stopped and turned.

“Where were you? You left me there.” Jessica said as she reached for Tiffany’s hand.

“I left you? You’re the one who forgot about me once you met your oppa.”

“Oh yes, I wanted you to meet him.”

Jessica sounded excited.

“He’s a great guy, I bet you’ll like him.” She added.

“Of course.” Tiffany reply, irritated.

**

“There he is!” Sunny pointed at Hyun Joong.

“Seriously, I don’t need any of your help!” Seohyun said, resisting the grips on her arm.

“Go talk to him!”

“What?? Not again!”

“Talk about hair tonic!”

“What?!”

“Hair tonic!!!” Yuri pushed Seohyun forward and she bumped onto Hyun Joong, again.

“I’m sorry!!” Seohyun bowed to Hyun Joong for the third time that day.

“It’s okay.” Hyun Joong looked at Seohyun, he’s pleasantly surprised.

“Are you always bumping into people like that? It’s kinda dangerous.” He said, smiling.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to!” Seohyun bowed again.

They both stay silent.

Hyun Joong smiled, “I guess I’ll bump into you again soon.”

Seohyun looked down, making a mental note to lock herself in the room later.

“Wait!”

“Hmm?” Hyun Joong turned.

92

Page 93: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Seohyun just stared at the beautiful face; nothing came out of her mouth.

“Let me guess, water is essential to human?” He said, jokingly.

“Talk about hair tonic!”

Yuri’s voice echoes in her head.

“Hair tonic.”

“Excuse me?” Hyun Joong asked, puzzled.

“Would you like to buy some hair tonic?”

I’m going to kill Yuri.

**

This is ridiculous.

Jessica, Tiffany and Daniel are having dinner at the resort’s restaurant.

“Oppa, that is so funny!” Jessica said as she slap Daniel’s arm jokingly.

Tiffany rolled her eyes and took a sip of her drink. She fists her left hand, trying to act natural.

“Tiffany, did you know that Jessica used to think that I’m her prince charming?” Daniel asked. His intention was good; he didn’t want Tiffany to feel left out. But it only caused Tiffany to feel even more jealous.

“Oh really?” Tiffany said, with a forced smile.

“Stop it oppa, you’re embarrassing me!” Jessica pouted.

Tiffany felt so pissed watching Jessica acting cute in front of another person other than her. She looked down, suppressing her jealousy.

“Did you remember the day that you were lost in the snow?” Daniel asked as he looked at Jessica.

“How can I forget? You came to save me.” Jessica said, smiling.

“Tiffany, it was kinda funny. She fought with her sister and then ran into the forest.”

“Then Daniel oppa came. He’s an excellent skier. He was skiing nearby and saw me crying in the snow.”

“I don’t know what could’ve happened to me if he didn’t come.” Jessica added.

Daniel smiled and reached to hold Jessica’s hand, “Fate lead me to you.”

93

Page 94: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany can feel the anger boiled inside of her. She can’t stand even one more second being there.

“I can’t even ski.” Tiffany said as she put down her glass with a thud.

Suddenly she stood up, “I have to go.”

“Tiffany? What’s wrong?” Jessica held her arm.

Tiffany shook her head and pulled her arm away from Jessica’s grip. Jessica watched as Tiffany slowly walked towards the door.

“I’m sorry oppa, I have to check on my friend.”

“Wait!” Daniel grabbed her arm.

Jessica stopped.

“Don’t go, I’m sure she’ll be okay. I have a lot more I wanted to talk to you”

Jessica looked at Daniel and then Tiffany.

“Plus, the desert has arrived, it’s your favourite.”

Jessica hesitated but she decided to sit at her chair again.

“You’re right, she’ll probably just go back to her room.” Jessica said, trying to reassure herself.

It’s the decision that Jessica will regret forever.

94

Page 95: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 16 – Footprints

Tiffany took her pink jacket and walked out of the restaurant. It’s cold and dark, but Tiffany didn’t care. She kept walking away from the restaurant. For every step she took she’s sure that Jessica is chasing her. She’s sure that Jessica will hold her arm and tell her not to go. Then Jessica will hug her and tell her that there’s nothing she should worry about. She slowed down and turned around.

Where is Jessica?

Tiffany realized that she had walked quite far from the restaurant. She’s been walking alone.

Jessica didn’t come for her.

She stayed with him.

Tiffany felt that familiar feeling once again. The pain she felt once came back. She felt so cheated. She tugged her chest, trying to ease the pain. Her eyes feel wet. She blinked her eyes. A drop of water fell down onto her glove.

It’s a tear.

Soon the tears couldn’t stop rolling down her cheeks. Tiffany turned around and ran into the darkness of the night.

Jessica, how could you?

You promised me that you will never leave my side.

You lied.

Tiffany finally stopped running to catch her breath. She looked around her. There’s nothing but snow.

Where am I?

**

Jessica had been staring at the pudding in front of her since Tiffany left. She held her spoon tight but not touching the desert. Daniel noticed Jessica’s odd behaviour.

“Why don’t you eat?”

Jessica seems to be lost in thought.

“Jessica, are you okay?” He asked, holding her hand.

Jessica looked at Daniel and quickly pulled her hand. Daniel was surprised with Jessica’s reaction.

95

Page 96: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I’m sorry.” She said.

“It’s okay. Are you feeling sick?”

Jessica didn’t answer him and quickly stood up.

“I have to go to her.” She said, serious.

Daniel stared at her and smiled. “She seems very important to you.”

Jessica grabbed her bag. “She’s my life.”

Daniel sighed as she watched Jessica ran through the door.

“Maybe I’m a little too late.”

**

“Yoona! Yoona!” Jessica called as she ran through crowd at the lobby.

Yoona stopped walking and turned around.

“Miss Jung?”

“Where is Tiffany?” Jessica asked, panting.

Yoona looked at Yuri and the others, confused.

“We thought she’s having dinner with you.” Yoona asked.

“She left the restaurant before me..” Jessica said, her voice shaken.

Sooyoung stared at Jessica, serious. “What happened here?”

“I should’ve followed her..” Jessica mumbling to herself.

“You let her go alone?!” Sooyoung asked.

“Miss Jung, my cousin has a really bad sense of direction.” Yoona said, trying to control her anger.

Yuri and Seohyun shook their heads.

“You forgot about her once you met that man!” Sooyoung grabbed Jessica’s jacket collar.

“Hey, relax!” Sunny held Sooyoung’s arm.

“I knew it! Girls like you are just going to break people heart!” Sooyoung said as she let go of Jessica.

“I should’ve followed her..” Jessica said, with tears rolling down her cheeks.

96

Page 97: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Let’s not panic, maybe Fany unnie is in her room by now. Let’s go check there first.” Seohyun suggested. They except Jessica rushed upstairs to look for Tiffany.

Jessica still stood there, burying her face in her hands.

“If anything happened to my cousin..

..I will not forgive you.” Yoona said, with her back facing Jessica.

I should’ve followed her..

**

“Fany-ah!” Sunny called as she opened the door.

No answer.

“Fany unnie!” Seohyun checked the bathroom.

“Is she there?” Sooyoung asked.

Seohyun shook her head.

“Then, she must be out there!” Yoona turned to run.

“Hey wait, you’re not going to go and look for her out there alone!” Yuri grabbed her arm.

“That’s MY cousin! She could be in trouble!” Yoona tried to resist herself from the grip.

Yuri held Yoona’s face with both her hands and looked into her eyes.

“Then we’ll go find her together.” She said as she pulled Yoona into a hug.

Yoona hugged Yuri tightly as tears rolling down her cheeks.

Unnie, where are you?

**

Where am I?

Tiffany had been walking in the unknown direction for almost one hour.

“Maybe I shouldn’t ran too far..” Tiffany mumbled to herself.

97

Page 98: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

She kept walking as she hugged herself. It’s freezing cold and she’s only wearing a knit sweater with her pink SPAO jacket on the outside.

This pink jacket.

The words Jessica said at the store played in Tiffany’s mind.

“I will never leave your side.”

Tiffany slowly wipes the tears from her eyes.

She lied.

Suddenly she heard a howl.

Tiffany can feel her legs shake. Then her whole body shake.

She looked around her. The bush moves.

There’s something in the bush.

She can feel a pair of red hungry eyes staring at her.

Tiffany turned around and ran as fast as she can.

Jessica, save me.

**

“Hey, watch where you going!” a man said as a blonde girl bumped onto him.

“I’m sorry!” The girl said as she continues to run.

“Unnie?” Krystal saw her sister ran towards the back door.

**

“Let’s go find her now!” urged Yoona.

“We need someone who can guide us. We can’t go out there without knowing the proper direction.” Yuri reasoned.

“We can get lost ourselves.” Sunny added.

“You girls need help?” said a man’s voice.

98

Page 99: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

They all turned around.

“Hyun Joong oppa!” Seohyun shouted.

**

Jessica is standing in front of the restaurant, her eyes looking around on the ground.

There!

Jessica smiled as she saw the footprints that looked new. The footprints go down the hill, into the forest.

Wiping her tears, Jessica ran following wherever the footprints lead to.

Tiffany, I’m sorry.

I’ll never leave you again.

99

Page 100: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 17 – Pulse (PG)

“Oppa!” a girl voice called.

Hyun Joong slowed down as he heard the familiar voice.

“Krystal?”

Krystal slowly ran towards Hyun Joong and the girls.

“Are you in a hurry? What happened?” Krystal asked.

“Where is Jessica?” Hyun Joong asked her back.

“I saw her rushed through the back door to the restaurant.”

“She might go looking for Tiffany alone!” Yuri said, panic.

“What’s going on here?” Krystal asked, confused.

“Tiffany is missing. And your sister might go looking for her all by herself.” Hyun Joong said.

“What?!”

“We might need more help.”

**

Tiffany, where are you?

Jessica is following the footprints and it led her deep into the forest. Wiping the cold sweats on her forehead, she looked around her for any signs of Tiffany.

Nothing.

Nothing but snow.

Tears rolled down her cheeks as she continued to follow the footprints.

I’m sorry, Tiffany.

If only she could turn back the hands of time, she will run to Tiffany, held her hands. Hug her tightly and never let go.

Tell her that there’s nothing she should worry about.

Tell her that my heart is beating only for her.

100

Page 101: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tell her that she’s the reason I keep on breathing.

Tell her that I love her.

Only her.

Jessica stopped as there are no more footprints to follow.

“Tiffany!” she called.

There’s nothing but echoes of her voice.

She walked a few steps forward as she looked on the ground, checking if there’s any trace of Tiffany. Then she saw it.

A red spot.

Jessica kneeled down and touches the red spot on the snow.

It looks like blood.

Her heart almost stopped at the thought of what might have happened to Tiffany. She quickly stood up and walked around.

“Tiffany!” she called again.

She looked around her. There’s nothing but snow. It’s all white and pink.

Pink?

Jessica ran as fast as she could towards the bright pink colour buried in the snow.

It is Tiffany.

“Honey, wake up!” Jessica turned the body over and shook her vigorously. Tiffany face was pale. Jessica checked the pulse on her neck.

No pulse.

She checked on Tiffany’s wrist.

There’s a pulse. It’s faint and weak.

“Thank god!”

Jessica put Tiffany’s arm around her shoulder and carry her.

Jessica carried Tiffany and walked for a few minutes before she saw an old warehouse. She quickly dragged Tiffany into the warehouse and closed the door. Jessica rummaged through the cupboards and found a dry sleeping bag. She laid it on the floor.

“Tiffany, honey. Please wake up.” She continued to shake the unconscious girl.

101

Page 102: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Suddenly, Tiffany slowly opened her eyes. “Jessi?”

“Yes! I’m here!” Jessica said as she cupped the girl’s face with her hands.

“You..came..” she said, weak.

“I’m sorry, I’m late.” Jessica said, as she gently caressed Tiffany’s cheek.

Tiffany replied it with a weak smile.

Tears rolled down Jessica’s cheeks again.

“I’m..so cold..”

Jessica took off her gloves and put both her hands on Tiffany’s neck, for skin-to-skin warmth. She read somewhere that the best treatment for hypothermia is by providing skin on skin treatment.

“I’m..so..sleepy..”

“No! Don’t fall asleep!”

“I..love..you..” Tiffany said as if it’s her last breath.

Tiffany had reached severe hypothermia stage. She’s shivering and her lips started to turn blue. Jessica had no choice but THAT.

She took off her cap and then her boots. Tiffany stared at Jessica, stunned.

“What...are you..doing?” she asked, weakly.

Jessica didn’t say a word; instead she took off her jacket. Then she took off her pants and everything else. Yes, she was naked. Tiffany gasps at the sight before her. Her brain, which was about to fall sleep suddenly stimulated. She feels hot. It doesn’t make sense. She was about to die. Was she in heaven already?

Then Jessica took off Tiffany’s wet sweater, “Sorry, I have to do this.” Tiffany didn’t say anything as her girlfriend undresses her.

Jessica pushed Tiffany into the sleeping bag and then joined into not soon after. She zipped the bag and wrapped her arms around Tiffany, pressing their body close. Their stomach must be in contact to prevent Tiffany’s temperature from decreasing.

“Don’t you dare fall asleep.” Jessica said as she run her hands around Tiffany’s back to keep her warm.

“You’re...so..beautiful.” Tiffany said, stuttering. Not sure if it’s the cold or because the fact that they’re naked together.

“You’re not so bad yourself.” Jessica replied, with a smirk.

“Are you flirting with me in a time like this?!” Jessica said.

102

Page 103: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany laughed weakly. Tiffany can feel that her eyes are getting heavy.

“I said don’t sleep!” Jessica shouted. But Tiffany’s eyes were about to closed completely.

Jessica put her lips on Tiffany’s cold ones, gently licking and sucking it, trying to keep Tiffany awake. It worked; Tiffany responded and returned the kiss.

Jessica broke the kiss, “Aish, I feel like I’m taking advantage on you.”

Tiffany smiled. “Maybe...you are.”

Jessica soon moved her lips to Tiffany’s neck, Tiffany moaned.

“Are you...trying to...turn me on?”

“I’m trying to keep you alive!” Jessica retorts.

“Then why...your hand is...caressing my thigh?”

Jessica paused.

“I’m...trying to keep you warm.”

Tiffany smiled. “Per..vert.”

“I won’t..make love to you like..for the first time in this condition. It’s so not romantic.” Jessica said, blushing.

But Tiffany had closed her eyes.

“Hey!” Jessica shouted.

Tiffany slowly opened her eyes.

“Okay, talk to me.” Jessica said.

“Talk..?”

“Tell me about..er..your family!” Jessica gave a topic so that Tiffany won’t fall asleep.

“My..family?”

“Yeah, you never told me about your mom and dad.”

Tiffany smiled weakly.

“My dad..hates me.”

She paused.

“He blamed me...for my mother’s death.”

“My mom..died..in car accident.”

103

Page 104: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica was really shocked.

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s..okay.” Tiffany smiled.

Jessica hugged the cold girl tighter.

“Hey! There they are!”

The warehouse’s door bursts open. And the help team rushed to them. Everything was quite blurry for Jessica. She can feel that their bodies were put on the stretcher and onto the ambulance. She held tight to Tiffany’s body.

I will never leave your side.

104

Page 105: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 18 – Soup

“She’s extremely lucky.” a female doctor said.

Yoona, Yuri, Seohyun, Sunny, Sooyoung, Krystal and Hyun Joong were listening very carefully to the doctor’s explanations.

“If Miss Jung didn’t perform the skin to skin treatment, Miss Hwang is probably gone by now.”

“She risked herself and ran into the forest alone, stupid.” Sooyoung said.

“Yes, but if she’s late by even a minute, Miss Hwang might not survive.” the doctor added.

They all looked at Jessica who’s sitting next to Tiffany’s bed. She hasn’t moved an inch from there.

“What Miss Jung did was indeed stupid, but courageous. Miss Hwang is so lucky to have such a friend.” the doctor smiled.

The doctor bowed before she leaves them standing there.

“Love can make you do stupid things.” Sooyoung said as she looked at Jessica.

Yoona smiled and looked at Sooyoung.

“What?” Sooyoung shrugged.

“I’m hungry, let’s get something to eat.”

They all laughed.

“Don’t worry about Fany, she got her guardian angel watching over her.” Sunny added.

“Yeah.” Yoona replied short. She looked at Jessica. Jessica is holding Tiffany’s hand as she stared at Tiffany’s sleeping face lovingly.

**

I will never leave your side.

Jessica has been sitting next to Tiffany’s bed for hours. No one not even the doctors can make her leave.

“Unnie, you have to rest too.”

“Miss Jung, let me take care of her while you rest.”

“Miss, you can’t be here.”

105

Page 106: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica ignored them all.

She made a promise. And she will do anything not to break it. Again.

I will never leave your side.

Suddenly Tiffany’s hands move. Jessica tightens her grip.

“Jessica?” Tiffany called.

Jessica smiled at Tiffany, she can feel the tears in her eyes.

Tiffany smiled back. There’s a lot she wanted to talk about but somehow, the words wouldn’t come out.

“I’m sorry.” Jessica said.

“It’s okay. You saved me.”

Jessica put Tiffany’s hand on her own cheek before kissing it.

“I must. You are my life.”

Tiffany smiled, “Damn cheesy.”

Jessica laughed. “You made me like this.”

They both stared at each other.

“I’m sorry.” Jessica said, slowly.

“Stop apologizing.”

“I broke my promise.”

“People do that sometimes.” Tiffany said, smiling weakly.

Jessica looked down, feeling guilty.

Tiffany tried to lift the mood, “So, it seems that we have unfinished business.”

Jessica looked up, “Unfinished business?”

“It’s so not romantic..” She mocked Jessica’s voice.

“Remember?” Tiffany smirked.

Jessica paused and then it came to her. “Oh.”

Jessica looked down, her face red, probably redder than tomato. She quickly let go of Tiffany’s hand and stood up.

Tiffany giggled looking at Jessica’s reaction.

106

Page 107: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Let’s wait until you’re fully healed.” Jessica said as she looked out of the window.

“Looking forward to it.”

“You undress me pretty fast that time.” Tiffany added before winking.

Jessica stared at Tiffany and then turned around.

Why is it so hot in here?!

“And oh yeah, you’re like the best blanket ever.”

Jessica smiled as she walked towards Tiffany.

“It is my job to keep you warm, my lady.” Jessica said as she bowed jokingly.

“Come here.” Tiffany pats her bed.

Jessica climbed onto the bed and wrapped her arms around Tiffany. Tiffany snuggled herself closer.

“Hey, Tiffany.”

“Hmm?”

“I have something to tell you.”

“What is it?”

“I love you.”

“I already know that.”

“Just letting you know.”

“You know what?”

“Hmm?”

“I love you too.”

**

“How are you today, Fany-unnie?” Seohyun greets as she opened the door.

“Seohyun!” Tiffany said, excited.

Tiffany is sitting on her bed. She’s getting better now.

Yuri followed behind Seohyun carrying a food container.

107

Page 108: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“What is that?” Sooyoung asked.

“This is for Tiffany only.”

Sooyoung rolled her eyes, “I’m just asking!”

“We made this together for Fany unnie.” Seohyun said, smiling.

Yuri opened the container, its soup.

“You two actually cooked this soup together?” Yoona asked, impressed.

“Yes, made from the rarest types of mushroom. This will help you heal faster.” Yuri said as she pours the soup into a bowl.

Suddenly the door opens, Jessica enter the room.

“Jessi!” Tiffany said as she saw her girlfriend.

Jessica smiled as she walked towards Tiffany. She stroke Tiffany’s hair gently.

“Here, drink it.” Yuri handed the bowl to Tiffany.

Jessica took the bowl and smelled the soup.

“What is this?”

“Oh, its soup that Seohyun and I made.” Yuri replied.

“What is it made of?”

“Mushrooms. All of them taken from my village.”

“You bring mushrooms on vacation?” Jessica asked, puzzled.

“I always bring herbs wherever I go.” Yuri replied.

“What type of mushrooms?” Jessica asked, serious.

“Er..I’m not so sure myself. I pick them behind my grandma’s house.”

Jessica stared at Yuri.

“You want to feed Tiffany with wild mushrooms?”

“Well..”

“No.”

“Eh?”

“I’m sorry, but I won’t let Tiffany drink them.”

Tiffany looked at Jessica, “It’s okay, they made them for me.”

108

Page 109: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“It’s dangerous.”

“But..”

“No. Trust me.”

**

“What are we going to do with the soup?” Seohyun asked Yuri.

“How am I supposed to know? That Jessica is too much!” Yuri said, angry.

Yoona, Sooyoung and Sunny just laughed.

“Let’s drink it together!” Seohyun suggested.

“Yeah, it’ll be a waste if nobody drinks it.” Yuri agreeing with Seohyun.

“No!” said Sooyoung, Sunny and Yoona simultaneously.

“You guys don’t trust me too?”

“The soup looks weird.” Said Sooyoung.

“It smells weird too.” add Yoona.

“No thanks.” Sunny add, smiling.

**

Yoona opened the bathroom door.

“Yuri, you’re back.” She said as she saw Yuri sat on the edge of the bed.

Yuri didn’t say anything. Just sits there. Yoona shrugged and went to the closet.

Suddenly a pair of hands slid on her waist.

“Oh my god!” Yoona was shocked.

“Hey Yoona.” Yuri said, smiling.

Yoona stared at Yuri, something is wrong.

Yuri grabbed Yoona’s shirt and pushed her onto the bed.

109

Page 110: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Hey!” Yoona shouts as she landed on the bed, forcefully.

Yuri smiled and climbed onto the bed.

Something is wrong.

Yuri moved closer to Yoona and held her face with her hands.

“What is wrong with you?!”

“Yoona, you looked so beautiful..” Yuri said, her eyes wild. She slid one hand on the back of Yoona’s head and pulled her forward.

Their lips touched.

“Yoona, I love you.”

110

Page 111: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 19 – Reasons

“Yoona, I love you.”

Yoona was shocked. She was so shocked that she couldn’t even move.

Yuri took the advantage to press her lips on Yoona. Since there’s no resistance, Yuri soon explore Yoona’s mouth with her tongue. Yoona closed her eyes and returned the kiss.

Yuri, I love you too.

What the?

No.

Yoona opened her eyes. Yuri is straddling her as they kissed.

No! No! No! No! No!

This is wrong!

Is it?

Yes, it’s wrong!

Yoona pushed Yuri to the side. Yuri fell off the bed. Yoona took the chance to stand up and ran to the door. She quickly opened the door and get out of the room.

She stood outside of the door, confused.

What is wrong with Yuri?

She put her fingers on her lips.

Yoona can feel her face heating up and her heart beating fast.

She..kissed me..

Suddenly the door to the room next to her opened.

Sooyoung came out, panting.

They looked at each other.

“Seohyun, suddenly took off her clothes.” Sooyoung said, still panting.

“Yuri, tried to rape me.” Yoona said to Sooyoung.

Sooyoung stared at Yoona, her eyes wide.

“What is wrong with them?”

111

Page 112: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

They both paused and tried to think.

“Mushrooms!” They both said simultaneously.

“Only they drank the mushroom soup.”

“Possibly those wild mushrooms. Some wild mushrooms have psychedelic substance. Kinda like drugs.”

“I wonder what happened if Fany unnie drank the soup.” Yoona asked.

“I bet Jessica wouldn’t mind having to perform another skin to skin treatment..” Sooyoung chuckled.

“Hahaha, yeah. But I’m not sure if the hospital bed is big enough for them to..” Yoona paused.

They looked at each other.

“Hey, that’s my cousin we’re talking about here!”

Sooyoung laughed.

They stood there in silence.

“Hey Yoona, while our roommates are going crazy, let’s go somewhere and talk.”

“Yeah, sure.”

**

“I’m sorry.”

Yoona looked at Sooyoung, surprised with the sudden apology.

“For what?”

Sooyoung sighed. “I was against Jessica’s and Tiffany’s relationship, like you don’t know that.”

“Oh. That.”

“Firstly because, I thought Jessica was just playing around with Fany.” Sooyoung said.

“Secondly, I’m not really fond of the idea of two people of the same sex being together and all.” She added with a laugh.

Yoona looked at Sooyoung, examining her expression.

“I was obviously wrong about my first reason..” Sooyoung sighed.

“Jessica is like, madly in love with Fany.”

112

Page 113: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Truly, madly, deeply.” Add Yoona.

Sooyoung nodded.“Jessica’s love for her made me forgot my second reason.”

“I guess as long as they are together, nothing else matters.”

“You’re a really good friend. Unnie is so lucky to have a friend like you.”

Sooyoung smiled.

“I’m also sorry for being rude to you back then.” Yoona said.

Sooyoung smirked, “I’m not going to forgive you easily though.”

“Eh?”

“Pay for my dinner tonight.”

“What?!”

**

“Yoona-yah~” Yuri called.

Yoona has been ignoring Yuri since the kiss incident.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t know what I was doing.” Yuri continued to plead.

Yoona rolled her eyes.

“You really don’t remember?!”

Yuri shook her head. Yoona looked at Yuri. She seems really guilty. Suddenly Yoona’s eyes fixed at Yuri’s lips.

Beautiful lips..

“Yoona-yah, forgive me?” Yuri said as she came closer to Yoona.

Yoona lost in her own thoughts, of Yuri’s lips. She lifted her right hand and touched Yuri’s lips.

“Er...Yoong?”

Yoona looked up.

“Why are you touching my lips?”

Realizing her own bizarre action, Yoona quickly pulled her hand.

“Well..there was a...bug on your lips..”

113

Page 114: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Yuri stared at Yoona as she speaks nervously.

“A bug?”

“Yeah, I was just trying to help..”

Yuri stared at Yoona, their eyes met. Yoona can feel her face heating up.

“Well..thanks.”

“No..problem..” Yoona said as she turned around and walked out of the room.

What the hell is wrong with me?!

**

“How are you feeling today, strong survivor?” Sooyoung asked as she walked towards Tiffany’s bed.

She came to visit her at the hospital.

Tiffany laughed, “Strong survivor?”

“Well, that’s what you are. You almost died, you know that?” Sooyoung added.

Tiffany smiled.

“Where’s your knight in shining armour? Isn’t she’s like by your side, 24/7?” Sooyoung asked, joking.

Tiffany smile even wider as Sooyoung mentioned Jessica, “She’s out, buying me some food.”

“I guess I have to stay until she came back, I might get some of your lunch. She’s always buying you expensive food.” Sooyoung said as she sits at a chair next to Tiffany’s bed.

Tiffany laughed, “Sure.”

“When will they release you?”

“Tomorrow. I’m all healed now.” Tiffany answered as she get up and sit on her bed.

Sooyoung looked at Tiffany, there’s so many things running through her mind.

“Fany-ah.”

Tiffany looked at Sooyoung. “Yeah?”

“Hate to say it, but I guess I was wrong.”

Tiffany looked at her friend, “About what?”

Sooyoung sighed, “Jessica.”

114

Page 115: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany smiled.

“She really loves you huh?”

“I think so.”

They both stay silent.

“Then promise me one thing.” Sooyoung said.

“What is it?”

“No matter what happen, don’t let her go.” She added.

Tiffany stared at Sooyoung, her expression serious.

“The road you both decided to take will be very bumpy ahead.”

“Don’t give up easily, and I want you to know that..

Sooyoung paused.

..I will support you. No matter what.” She finished her sentence.

Tiffany can feel tears in her eyes. She’s so touched by Sooyoung’s words. She got up and hugged Sooyoung.

“You’re a really good friend, you know that?” Tiffany said as she tightens her hug.

“I know right.” Sooyoung said as she let out a small laugh. Tears rolled down her cheeks.

Thank you, Sooyoung.

115

Page 116: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 20 – Twilight

“I’m back!”

Tiffany ran towards her friends at the resort’s lobby. She’s just got out of the hospital. Jessica smiled watching her hyper girlfriend. Everyone rushed to Tiffany, forming a huge hug, with Tiffany in the middle.

“You made us worry.”

“We missed you.”

“You should drink some tonic.”

“Unnie, you need a compass.”

Tiffany smiled as she looked at everyone’s face, “I’m sorry I made you guys worry.”

Jessica linked her arm with Tiffany’s, “Let’s go to your room”

“Can’t wait to get her all alone in the room eh, Jessica?” Yuri said.

Everyone laughed. Tiffany was blushing madly.

Jessica stopped and stared at Yuri, “You called me Jessica?”

“Eh?” Yuri just realized she called her a little too friendly.

“I..didn’t mean..” Yuri got the icy stare again.

Jessica laughed. Everyone was shocked.

“It’s okay, everyone can just call me Jessica from now on.” She said, smiling.

Everybody stunned.

“Let’s go, honey.” Jessica said as she pulled Tiffany with her.

“Is that Miss Jung?!” Yoona asked.

“She’s like completely different person.” Seohyun said.

“Love does that to people.” Sooyoung said, smiling.

**

116

Page 117: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany can’t stop giggling as they entered the room.

“What’s so funny?”

“You see, we’ve been staying in the resort for 4 days now. But this is the first and last night I’ll spend in this room.”

“Been sleeping on the hospital bed for 3 days..” Tiffany added, laughing.

“That’s not funny. You almost died.”

Tiffany turned to look at Jessica, she seems serious. She walked slowly towards her.

“I’m sorry I made you worry.”

Jessica looked at Tiffany, “It’s my fault. I should’ve followed you earlier.”

Tiffany looked down, “Why didn’t you?”

Jessica sighed, “I was an idiot.”

“Stupid blanket, you made me cry, lost and then stumbled in the snow.” Tiffany said as she gently hit Jessica’s head with her hand.

Jessica reached her head to held Tiffany’s hand.

“Will you forgive me?” She said, looking into Tiffany’s eyes.

Tiffany slid her hands on Jessica’s waist, “I forgive you already.”

Jessica caressed Tiffany’s cheek. They both stare into each other’s eyes.

“So you’re all healed now.”

“Yes.” Tiffany nodded.

“We have unfinished business.” Jessica said, shyly.

Tiffany chuckled, “You remember.”

Jessica nodded.

Tiffany traced Jessica’s jaw line slowly with her finger. She leaned forward and kissed her left ear.

“Let see how fast you can undress me this time.” She whispered hoarsely into Jessica’s ear.

**

117

Page 118: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Our last day!” Sooyoung shouted as she walked out of her room.

“You’re late!” Yuri said.

“Where’s Yoona?” Tiffany said as she walked towards them, a hand on Jessica’s waist.

“She, Seohyun and Sunny are waiting for us in the cafeteria.” Yuri replied.

“Yoona without you? That’s odd. Aren’t you two are like the Siamese twins?” Jessica said.

“ We..used to be.” Yuri sighed sadly.

Jessica looked at Yuri, puzzled.

“Anyway, good morning Miss Jung!” Yuri said suddenly.

Jessica stared at Yuri.

“Oops, I mean Jessica.” Yuri corrected, smiling.

Jessica chuckled.

“Are you two going to join us for breakfast? Or you two lovebirds need to be alone?” Sooyoung asked.

“We’ll join you guys.” Tiffany said as she slapped Sooyoung’s arm playfully.

**

“I want to eat this, this, and this.” Sooyoung said as she pointed on random foods on the menu.

“Don’t you think that’s too much?” Sunny asked.

“It’s our last day, I love the food here. So I’m going to eat as much as I can.” Sooyoung replied.

Sunny shook her head. Sooyoung glared at her.

“Eat all you want, it’s all on me today.” Jessica said, cheerfully.

Everyone stared at Jessica.

“Seriously?” Yoona asked.

Jessica nodded. Tiffany smiled as she eats her bread.

“Then I need to double my orders!” Sooyoung shouted.

Jessica laughed, she’s sitting really close next to Tiffany, a hand on her girlfriend’s lap. She can’t stop smiling as she glanced at Tiffany every few seconds.

118

Page 119: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You looked happy, Jessica. I bet something happened last night.” Yuri said.

Tiffany choked on her bread upon hearing that. Jessica pats her back gently.

“Here, drink some water.” Jessica held the glass as her blushing girlfriend drinks.

“So, something did happen..haha” Yuri said, teasing.

“Er, excuse me.” said a voice.

They all looked up.

Hyun Joong is smiling.

“Good morning Hyun Joong!” they greeted him.

“Morning.” He replied short.

“Would you like to join us for breakfast?” asked Yoona.

He smile politely and shook his head, “I wanted to talk to Seohyun.”

Everyone looked at Seohyun.

“Me?” Seohyun said, blushing.

“Is it okay? I wish to have breakfast with you. Just with you.” He added.

“Of course!” Sunny said, almost shouting.

“Yes, take her away and feed her.” Sooyoung added.

Seohyun stood up shyly and bowed to her friends before she leave.

“You better treat my staff nicely.” warned Jessica.

“Don’t worry. You better take care of your PillowFany, cousin.” Hyun Joong replied, smiling.

“PillowFany?” asked Yoona, puzzled.

Tiffany closes her mouth with her hands, trying hard not to laugh.

Jessica had turned red.

Krystal!!!

**

119

Page 120: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Goodbye ski resort.” Yuri said as she waved towards the resort with a handkerchief.

They are standing in front of the bus, waiting to go home.

“Goodbye good food.” Sooyoung added, waving towards the cafeteria.

“Goodbye weird memories.” Yoona said, weakly.

“Weird memories?” Yuri asked. Yoona only glared at her.

**

“Goodbye oppa.” Seohyun said to Hyun Joong.

“Promise me you’re not going to forget me and stay in touch.” He said.

“I promise.” Seohyun replied, sweetly.

“We still have a lot to talk about.”

“Yeah.”

“I’m interested to buy the hair tonic.”

“Eh?”

**

“Goodbye wolves.” Tiffany said towards the forest.

“Wolves?” Jessica asked as she fix Tiffany’s jacket.

“Yeah, there are wolves in there. I was running from it that night.”

Jessica looked at Tiffany, doubting her.

“Seriously! Then I stumbled down and..passed out.” Tiffany added.

“I don’t think there are wolves in there, honey.”

“There is! Or maybe it’s not wolves..”

Jessica listened to her girlfriend carefully, “So what is it?”

“Vampires.” Tiffany said, serious.

120

Page 121: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica laughed, “You’re way into Twilight.”

“I’m not kidding!” Tiffany pouted.

Jessica chuckled at her girlfriend’s behaviour. She planted a quick kiss on her cheek.

Tiffany looked at Jessica.

“Okay fine, I’m your Edward Cullen.” Jessica said, giving up.

“No, you’re my Bella Swan. I wanted to be Edward for some reason.” Tiffany said.

“Maybe it’s because you like to bite.” Jessica said slowly, almost whispering.

Tiffany heard it and hit Jessica’s arm playfully. They’re both blushing.

“Jessi!” a voice called.

Daniel is running towards them.

“Oh oppa.” Jessica said, she can feel that Tiffany was feeling uneasy.

“You’re heading back?” He said.

“Yeah. Work in the office is calling.” Jessica replied. She held tight to Tiffany’s hand. Daniel looked at their intertwined hands.

Silence falls upon them.

“Well, take care, Jessica.” He said.

“Yeah, you too.” Reply Jessica, smiling.

“Tiffany, you take care too.” He said to Tiffany.

Tiffany looked at him, blank. Then she smiled.

“Okay, don’t worry. I will.”

Daniel bowed and turned around leaving them.

“He’s hot.” Tiffany said, suddenly.

Jessica turned to look at her, “What did you say?”

“I said he’s hot..

Tiffany paused.

..but, you’re way hotter. You’re my human blanket.” Tiffany said as she slid her hands on Jessica’s waist.

121

Page 122: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 21 – Date

“Tiffany!” a man called outside of Tiffany’s house.

He cursed a few times before shaking the gates vigorously.

“Tiffany! Come out!” he called.

The next door neighbour opened the door, an ahjumma came out.

“Hey young man, what’s your problem?”

He stopped shaking the gate, “I’m looking for the girl who lives here.” He said, trying to be polite.

“Oh, the girl and her cousin?”

The man nodded.

“They are such nice girls. So beautiful and so polite.” The ahjumma continues.

“Can I know where they went?” He asked, impatient.

“If I’m not mistaken..they are going on a trip.”

“Trip?”

The ahjumma nodded.

The man seems disappointed.

“May I know your name? I can tell them that you came.”

The man looked at the ahjumma.

“I’m Lee Min Ho. Tell Tiffany that, her boyfriend came by.”

**

“Party?!” Sooyoung said, excited.

Jessica nodded. “It’s a party to launch the new magazine.”

“I’ve never been to a party before..” Seohyun said.

Everyone looked at her.

“Except birthday parties.” She added, embarrassed.

122

Page 123: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica laughed, “Well, this is nothing like a birthday party.”

“We’re talking about huge, high class party with celebrities and all.” She added.

“You can also bring a date.”

“Can I go?” Yoona asked.

“Yeah, you and Yuri is also considered as staffs. Sure.” Jessica replied.

“Besides, your cousin will beg me to let you come along.” She added, glancing at Tiffany who’s busy at her desk.

“You guys talking about me?” Tiffany asked, oblivious.

“Oh honey, I’m just talking about how hot you are in that pink top.” Jessica lied, just because.

“Yeah right.” Tiffany said, slightly red.

“Isn’t she’s the cutest thing?” Jessica asked the others.

Everyone rolled their eyes.

“I thought I can get used to the cheesiness and the flirting you two showcased in the office by now..” Sooyoung paused.

..excuse me, I need to go to the bathroom.”Sooyoung said, rushed out the door.

“Oh come on! Stop overreacting!” Jessica shouted.

“She’s going to puke again..” Seohyun said.

Jessica stared at Seohyun.

“Seriously.”

**

“Yoona, who are you going to bring to the party?” Yuri asked as she walked beside Yoona.

Yoona looked away, “Why you care?”

She’s been acting cold towards Yuri since they came back from the resort.

Yuri sighed. She ran ahead and stand in front of Yoona. “Stop!”

Yoona looked at Yuri, “What now?”

“We need to talk.”

123

Page 124: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“There’s nothing to talk about.” Yoona reply, cold.

“Why are you like this?” Yuri asked, her voice desperate. She can’t stand being treated like this anymore.

Yoona sighed. “What about me?”

“You’re like..completely ignoring me since we came back from the resort.”

“I’m not.”

“You are! Can you at least tell me what I did wrong?”

“It’s not about you.” Yoona said, looking down.

“Then what is it?!”

“I don’t know either!”

Yuri looked at Yoona, puzzled.

“I..I’m not comfortable when I’m around you.” Yoona said, her face confused.

“Not comfortable?”

“It’s complicated. I just..need to be alone for a while.”

“But..you are my best friend.” Yuri said, sadly.

Yoona sighed, “That’s why it’s complicated.”

**

“Who are you going to bring to the party?” Yuri asked Sooyoung.

Sooyoung looked at her, puzzled.

“You know, as your date?” She added.

Sooyoung sighed sadly, “I don’t know. I don’t have a boyfriend.”

“Hyun Joong oppa is coming to the party!” Seohyun suddenly shouted.

Yuri and Sooyoung looked at her, jealous.

“We didn’t ask you.”

“I’m going with Jessica!” Tiffany said, cheerfully.

“Oh, I’m so surprised.” Sooyoung said, rolling her eyes.

124

Page 125: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Who are you going with, Yoona?” Seohyun asked as Yoona entered the office with a bunch of files in her hands.

“You’re a lone ranger like us too?” Sooyoung asked.

Yuri looked at Yoona, but Yoona avoided her gaze. Her heart hurts everytime.

“I have a date.” Yoona replied.

**

“So who’s your date?” Tiffany asked.

Yoona and Tiffany are watching TV on the couch at their house.

“Someone.”

“Someone I know?”

“Why you care?” Yoona replied, bitter.

Tiffany scoffed, “Well because I’m your favourite cousin, and because there’s no secret between us.”

Yoona kept staring at the TV screen, silent.

“Is something bothering you?” Tiffany asked as she pats Yoona’s head gently.

Yoona turned her body facing Tiffany.

“Unnie, how does love feel like?”

Tiffany was shocked, but then she smiled.

“Well, at first it’s quite confusing.”

Yoona looked at her cousin’s face.

“You always want to be with that person, even just to see their face. And when you sleep at night, their smiles are the last thing you think of.”

“Your heart beats fast, your cheeks turns hot. It happen every time they came near you.”

“It’s this wonderful unexplainable feeling.” Tiffany ended her sentence.

Yoona looked down thinking.

“Why you asked, dear?” Tiffany said, holding her hand.

“Unnie..

125

Page 126: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

..I think I fell in love.”

Yoona looked up and met Tiffany’s eyes.

They both smiled.

“IT’S DONE!” a voice shouted, ruining the warm moments between the cousins.

“Jessi..” Tiffany said as she looked up.

Jessica is holding a plate, it contain of what it looks like food.

“What is that?” Yoona asked.

“Fried rice. I cooked this.” Jessica said proudly.

“What is this smell?” Tiffany asked.

“Smell like something burnt.” Yoona said.

Feeling something is wrong, Yoona ran to the kitchen. After a few minutes she came out of the kitchen looking distress.

“Sica unnie..what did you do?”

“Cook.”

“Then don’t do it anymore.”

“Why not?”

“I said don’t or else I will wear the cucumber costume and hunt you!” Yoona said, angrily.

Jessica was scared, her face pale.

“O..okay. No need to shout..”

Tiffany grabbed Jessica’s hand, “Let’s go to my room.”

Yoona was breathing heavily, “Now I have a lot to clean!”

**

“She’s scary.”

Tiffany laughed, “So you don’t know how to cook too?”

“Well, I’m learning!” Jessica defends herself.

“It’s okay, I’m sucks at cooking as well.” Tiffany adds.

126

Page 127: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“So we’re the ‘sucks at cooking’ couple.” Jessica said as she put her hand around Tiffany’s shoulder.

“We’re good at other things though.” Tiffany said, playing with Jessica’s hand on her lap.

“You’re a good napkin.” Jessica said, gently kissing Tiffany’s forehead.

“Well you’re really good at one thing.” Tiffany said, in a flirtatious tone.

“I wonder what it is?”

“Skin-to-skin treatment.” Tiffany said cheekily, one hand sliding on Jessica’s neck.

Jessica chuckled, “Only to you.”

“Can you promise me one thing?” Jessica asked, as she held Tiffany’s hands stopping her from probing further.

“Anyhting.”

“Stay with me, forever.”

“I promise.” Tiffany said as she pushed Jessica down before showering her with kisses.

127

Page 128: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 22 – Public

“How do I look?”

Tiffany is showing her dress in front of Yoona.

“Gorgeous. I bet it’ll drive Sica unnie crazy.”

“Why are you not dressing up yet?” Tiffany asked, puzzled.

“I don’t feel like going.” Yoona replied, weak.

“What? You said you have a date.”

“I wish I have.” sighed Yoona.

Suddenly the bell rings.

“Sica unnie is here.” Yoona said.

Yoona opened the door, Jessica is smiling happily.

“Hey Yoona.” She greeted.

Jessica definitely dressed to kill for that night, even Yoona had her jaw dropped on the ground.

“Honey!” Jessica said as she saw her girlfriend.

“You looked gorgeous, Jessi. I’m so jealous.” Tiffany said, stunned.

Jessica took Tiffany’s hand and intertwined it with hers.

“You shouldn’t. At the end of the night, it’s all yours.” She said, cheekily.

“You got that right.” Tiffany said, slapping Jessica’s butt.

“Oh come on! I really don’t want to listen or see any of that, just go already!” Yoona said, disgusted.

“We’re going now.” Jessica said, pulling her girlfriend.

“Wait.” Tiffany paused and turned around. She stared at Yoona.

“Yoona, just follow your heart.” Tiffany said.

Yoona looked at her cousin.

“Just go and ask her.” Tiffany added.

Yoona kept silent.

“I’m sure she’s waiting for you.”

128

Page 129: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

**

“You’re not going to the party?”

Yuri’s mom asked as she saw her daughter watching TV in the living room.

“Yoona’s not going. So I’m not going too.” Yuri replied, short.

Her mom shrugged and walked to the kitchen.

The bell rang.

“Yuri, can you please get the door?” Her mom asked.

Yuri lazily got up from the sofa and walked to the door. She opened the door.

What the..?

Yoona is standing in front of her house, wearing a beautiful dress, smiling.

“Yoona?”

Yoona smiled and offer a hand, Yuri held Yoona’s hand, confused.

Yoona cleared her throat; Yuri can see that she’s nervous.

“Would you like to go to the party with me? As...my date.” Yoona asked, slightly blushing.

Yuri was shocked, but then she smiled.

“I’d love to.”

**

“What are you doing here?”

Sooyoung asked to Sunny. They’re at the party. Sunny is holding a glass, looking at Sooyoung. She scoffed.

“I got invited too.”

“They invite kids too? I thought this party is for adults.”

“Haha, funny.”

Sooyoung laughed.

“Drink?” Sunny said, handing a glass of champagne to Sooyoung.

129

Page 130: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Thanks.” She said as she took the glass.

“Look, Joanna Jung.” Sunny pointed.

“She’s hot for a woman her age.”

Sunny chuckled.

“Hey, isn’t that Hyun Joong?” Sunny said as she saw a young man walking with Joanna Jung.

“Oh my, he’s a gigolo?!”

Sunny hit Sooyoung arm, “Ouch! Why?”

“He’s her son.”

Sooyoung turned to look at Hyun Joong and Joanna. They do resemble each other.

**

“So beautiful..”

“Gorgeous..”

Random complementing words were heard as Jessica and Tiffany walked through the crowds. Jessica put a hand on Tiffany’s waist, pulling her close. Heads turns as they continued walking towards the bar.

“Hey lovebirds..” Sooyoung greeted them.

“Hey Sooyoung, Sunny.” Tiffany greeted back.

Tiffany grabbed a glass and drink. Jessica was only standing there, holding Tiffany’s hand.

“You don’t drink, Jessica?” Sooyoung asked.

Tiffany chuckled. “She can’t handle alcohol well.”

“No! It’s because..one of us has to stay sane tonight.” Jessica retorts.

“Yeah right.” Tiffany said.

Jessica pouted.

Tiffany chuckled at Jessica’s childish reaction.

“Come on.” She said as she pulled Jessica towards the center of the hall.

“Why? Where do you want to go?”

130

Page 131: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Let’s dance.”

**

“So you’re planning to go after all.” Yoona asked as she looked at Yuri’s new hot outfit.

They just arrived at the party, both wearing black dress, holding hands as they walked.

“I know you’re going to ask me.” Yuri said.

“Really? How?”

“I just know.”

**

Jessica and Tiffany are dancing in the crowd. Pussycat Dolls’s Jai Ho is playing in the background.

Jessica leaned forward to Tiffany’s ear.

“You are the reason that I breathe,You are the reason that I still believe,You are my destiny.”

She whispered the lyrics.

They are so into the music, not caring about the people around who are watching them. Their hips are moving to the beat simultaneously.

Tiffany kissed Jessica’s right ear and whispered the rest of the lyrics.

“No there is nothing that can stop us,Nothing can ever come between us,”

Jessica can feel it burning inside of her, she held Tiffany’s face with her hands and stare deeply into her eyes. Soon she’s staring at Tiffany’s lips.

“Jessi, we’re in public.” Tiffany reminded her girlfriend.

“I don’t care.” Jessica said, her voice hoarse.

“Are you drunk? You’re not even drinking.”

“I’m love drunk.” She said before she pressed her lips to Tiffany’s.

131

Page 132: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany knows it’s wrong to do it in public, but she returned the kiss anyway.

It’s too good to resist.

It tastes like heaven.

“JESSICA! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!”

An angry voice is heard.

Tiffany quickly pushed Jessica away.

Joanna Jung was standing not too far from them, with both hands on her hips. Her eyes are burning with anger.

132

Page 133: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 23 – Feelings

Yoona and Yuri are standing at the balcony, away from the crowd.

“So..are you comfortable with me now?” Yuri asked.

“Huh?”

“Last time, you said that you’re feeling uncomfortable when you’re around me.”

“Oh.” Yoona looked down.

Yuri moved closer to Yoona.

“I’m still uncomfortable whenever I’m around you.” Yoona said, looking at the dark sky.

Yuri looked at Yoona, curious.

“But it’s a pleasant uncomfortable feeling.” She added, smiling.

“What is it?”

“I asked my cousin about it..

Yoona paused.

..according to her, I might..

“Might what?” Yuri asked, impatient.

..might be in love.” Yoona finished her sentence with a sigh.

Yuri stared at Yoona, blank. Her mind is still trying to process the whole conversation.

Is she..

“With who?” Yuri asked.

Yoona stared at Yuri’s face in disbelief.

“Someone I know?” she continued to ask.

Yoona laughed, hiding her disappointment.

“Never mind. Let’s go.” Yoona said as she turned around to leave.

But soon she stopped as a hand grabbed her arm. Yoona turned around and saw Yuri looking at her.

“Yuri?”

“I remember..

133

Page 134: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

..what I did to you that night.” she said, serious.

Yoona gulped. “You do?”

**

“Auntie..”

Joanna marched through the crowd towards Jessica and Tiffany. Jessica can feel her whole body shakes.

“Come with me.” Joanna said, grabbing Jessica’s arm.

“But..”

Joanna kept on dragging Jessica away from the dancing floor, leaving Tiffany behind. Jessica turned around and looked at her girlfriend as she’s being dragged away forcefully.

Tiffany stared at Jessica, her eyes are teary. Jessica mouthed, “Don’t worry.”

Tiffany nodded and forced herself to smile. But she can’t force the tears in her eyes from falling down.

Jessica..

“Fany!” Sooyoung called as she rushed towards her. Sunny right behind her. They both saw the whole thing.

Tiffany can’t help but to sob as she saw her friend’s worry faces. Sunny quickly hugged her and pats her back gently.

“Let’s go somewhere else.” Sooyoung suggested.

**

“What the hell are you thinking you’re doing?!”

Jessica didn’t say anything, kept looking down.

“Kissing a girl? You’re a..lesbian?!”

Jessica closed her eyes, trying to block the words. Joanna walked back and forth, trying to control her anger.

“Are you trying to destroy our family reputation?! A lesbian in a Jung family? Are you kidding me?”

134

Page 135: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica looked down and kept silent.

“That girl looked cheap.” Joanna added.

This time Jessica looked up almost immediately; she stared at Joanna’s face, in anger.

Joanna stared at Jessica, “If you want to turn gay, at least find a better slut.”

That’s it.

“STOP IT!!” Jessica shouted.

Joanna was shocked with Jessica’s sudden outburst.

“You can call me anything you want. But don’t..call her that.”

Joanna scoffed, “I guess, you love her?”

Jessica bit her lip and looked away.

Joanna walked towards Jessica, put a hand on Jessica’s shoulder.

“Don’t waste your time.” she said.

“Just work hard for the company and marry the one you’re arranged to. Like all the Jungs.”

**

“You..remember?” Yoona asked Yuri, her eyes wide.

Yuri nodded, looking down.

Yoona scoffed, “So why did you pretended like you didn’t know anything?”

Yuri kept on staring at the pattern of the marble on the floor.

“I can’t believe you..” Yoona said.

“How am I supposed to act if I said that I remembered?” Yuri asked.

Yoona rolled her eyes.

“I..didn’t mean to..kiss you.” Yuri added.

“I’m sorry.”

“Whatever.” Yoona said, pissed.

“Listen Yoona, I..really care about you.”

135

Page 136: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Yoona stared at Yuri.

“Which is why..I can’t afford losing you.”

“What are you talking about?”

Yuri looked away, “I can’t risk this.”

Yoona stared at Yuri, waiting for her to continue.

“I can’t risk what we have.”

What the?

“I can’t risk our friendship.”

Yoona can feel her heart slowly breaking.

No..

“I’m sorry I made you feel that way.”

No..

“But to me, you’re always..

No..

..my best friend.”

**

“Fany-ah, calm down.” Sunny said as she gently rubbing Tiffany’s back.

Tiffany can’t stop crying. There are so many things running through her mind.

Is Jessica okay?

Will they hurt her?

Tiffany bit her lip, she’s trying to stop crying. She’s trying hard to be strong.

“She might get hurt..” she said suddenly, sobbing.

“Fany-ah.” Sooyoung said as she held Tiffany’s hand.

“It’s all because of me.”

Sooyoung and Sunny looked at each other, puzzled.

136

Page 137: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“It’s not your fault.” Sunny said.

Tiffany looked up and stared into Sunny’s eyes.

“Yes, it is...

..I should’ve known..that our relationship will..hurt her.”

She looked at Sooyoung.

“I should’ve listened to you the first time..” Tiffany said.

“Life is not a fantasy..who am I kidding?”

Sooyoung shook her head.

“Put some sense into your head, Fany!” she shouted.

Tiffany startled but then she stared at Sooyoung.

“Tiffany, you promised me.”

Sooyoung paused.

“You know you love her,

..you know your love for her is real.”

Tiffany continued to stare at Sooyoung.

“And that’s all that matters.”

**

“It’s not love.”

Yoona stared at Yuri as she speaks.

“You’re just...confused after what happened.” She added.

Confused?

Tears started rolling down Yoona’s cheeks. She closed her eyes. It’s too painful for her to take.

“You’re not in love with me.” Yuri kept on saying.

“Who are you..

Yoona paused.

137

Page 138: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

She opened her eyes, tears kept on rolling down.

“Who are you to decide what my feelings are?!”

Yuri was shocked, she took a step backward.

“Yoona..”

“I..know what I feel..”

Yuri tried to hold Yoona’s arm but she pushed it away.

“Yuri, can you still say it’s not love if..

..your face kept appearing on my mind?”

Yuri stared at Yoona’s face, shocked.

“Or..if my skips a beat every time you called my name?”

Yoona wiped her tears with her hand.

“I didn’t ask for this. “

138

Page 139: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 24 – Choice

“I love her.”

Jessica said it loud and clear. No hesitation. Joanna was surprised by her bold confession.

“No matter what.”

“Jessica..”

“She’s the one I want to be with till the day I die.”

“Shut up!”

Joanna slapped Jessica on the face.

Jessica touched her right cheek, trying to ignore the pain.

“Are you crazy?!” Joanna asked, her eyes wide.

Jessica slowly turned her head towards her aunt.

“If being in love is crazy, then yes, I am crazy.”

**

“I need to go to the restroom..” Tiffany said as she slowly got up from the bench.

Sunny helped her getting up by holding her arm. She seems unstable.

“Let me take you there..” offered Sunny.

Tiffany turned to her and smiled. “It’s okay, I can go by myself.”

“Are you sure?” Sooyoung asked, concern.

“Don’t worry.”

**

“If..I didn’t drink the mushroom soup..and kissed you..”

Yuri paused.

139

Page 140: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You won’t have these feelings for me.” she said, serious.

Yoona shook her head as she wiped her tears.

“You’re wrong.”

Yuri looked at Yoona.

“The truth is..I’ve always been in love with you.”

Yoona stared into Yuri’s eyes.

“I don’t know how or when I fell in love with you.”

Yoona looked away.

“It just happens.”

**

Tiffany wiped the tears with her hands as she walked weakly towards the restroom. She entered the restroom, it’s empty. She looked at her reflection in the huge mirror in front of her. Her eyes are swollen from crying too much. She looked messy.

Jessica..

The image of Jessica being dragged away by Joanna is playing in her mind.

It’s all because of me.

You’re going to get hurt because of me.

She swallows her own saliva and closed her eyes. She turned on the tap and let the water runs in the sink. She washes her face slowly, hoping that it will make her feel better.

She turned off the tap and walked out of the restroom. The party is still going, with loud music filling the atmosphere. But Tiffany only had her mind on one person, Jessica.

“Tiffany.” a voice is calling her.

Tiffany stopped walking and turned around.

“You..” she said, shocked.

**

140

Page 141: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Enough of this.”

Yoona said, cold.

“This conversation is going nowhere.”

“I’m going home.” Yoona said as she turned around to leave.

“What exactly do you expect from me?” Yuri said suddenly.

Yoona stopped and turned around.

“I don’t expect anything from you.” Yoona replied, hurt.

“Can we just please..act like none of this ever happen?” Yuri asked.

Yoona stared at Yuri in disbelief. She shook her head and leaves the balcony.

Yuri stood there, staring at Yoona as she leaves.

**

“You..” Tiffany said as the man walked towards her.

“How are you?” Minho asked, smiling.

Tiffany quickly wiped her eyes and straightens her bangs, acting natural.

“Have you been crying?”

“No, it’s just..there was something in my eyes. I was washing it just now to get them out.”

Minho looked at Tiffany, doubting her.

“Maybe it’s just dust or something it..burns my eyes..” Tiffany kept on lying.

“Anyway, it was nice seeing you here. Bye.” Tiffany said as she turned to leave.

“Wait!” Minho called.

As much as Tiffany wanted to leave, she didn’t. She turned around.

Minho walked closer to Tiffany, his eyes staring at her.

“I missed you.”

Tiffany was shocked. She’s not sure how to react.

“I’m sorry for what happened last time. I wasn’t myself.” he continued.

141

Page 142: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Minho reached for Tiffany’s hands, holding it tight.

“Can we start again?”

Tiffany stared at him.

What?

Minho lifted his right hand, gently caressing Tiffany’s right cheek.

Tiffany was confused, she didn’t react at all. Then it came to her.

Jessica.

She flinched from the touch and pulled her hand from Minho’s grip.

“We’re over. Remember?” she said, her voice shaken.

Minho’s expression changed, he looked surprised.

“You can’t be serious.”

“Yes I am.” Tiffany replied, clear.

Minho shook his head vigorously, “No, no, no, no, you can’t do this to me.”

Tiffany looked away.

“How am I supposed to live without you?” he asked; his voice desperate.

Tiffany looked at him; he looked so broken and vulnerable.

“I’m sorry.”

“You are my life.”

“I’m so sorry, oppa..”

“How about the happy times we spent together?” he said suddenly.

Minho looked down.

“You promised me that you will never leave.” He added.

“Promises are..meant to be broken.”

“It’s not fair.”

“Oppa..”

“Is it because I cheated..because what I did to you before?” he asked, holding back his tears.

“This isn’t about you.”

142

Page 143: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“It only happened once, and I already swore to you that it will never happen again..”

“Oppa, this isn’t about you.” Tiffany said as she held his hands.

“Baby..”

“I know you’re a good guy. You deserve someone better.”

“No, all I need is you.”

“I just..can’t be with you anymore.”

“Why?”

“I..don’t love you anymore.”

Minho stared at Tiffany, his eyes are teary. He pulled his hands from Tiffany’s grip and walked a few steps backwards.

“It’s because of her..isn’t it?”

Tiffany avoided his gaze and kept silent.

He scoffed.

“I can give you so much more compared to her.”

Tiffany looked down.

“I can offer you a..normal life.”

“You don’t have to do this. You have a choice.”

Tiffany slowly looked up.

“Don’t you know that she could lose everything if she did anything that could taint her family image?”

Tiffany looked at Minho. Her heart aches at the thought.

Jessica could lose everything..

..because of me?

Minho held Tiffany’s hands.

“If you choose me, nobody has to get hurt.”

Tiffany started to think about it rationally. She started to consider the choices.

143

Page 144: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

I don’t want to hurt her..

“GET YOUR HANDS OFF MY GIRL!” shouted a voice.

Minho and Tiffany turned to the voice’s direction. People started to gather around them.

Jessica is standing not too far from them. She seems angry.

“Jessi..” Tiffany said as she pulled her hands away from Minho.

Jessica walked towards Tiffany and quickly intertwined her hand with her.

Minho scoffed at the sight.

“Let’s go.” Jessica said as she pulled Tiffany away.

“Wait.” Minho said, as he held Tiffany’s other hand.

They both stopped.

“What now?” Jessica asked, angry.

Minho ignored her and looked at Tiffany.

“Tiffany, I’m giving you one last chance.”

“What are you talking about?” Jessica asked, pissed.

“Me or her?” Minho continued.

Tiffany was shocked by Minho’s sudden question.

She’s confused. She pulled both of her hands away from Minho and Jessica.

Jessica was surprised. “Tiffany..”

“Nobody has to get hurt.” Minho said.

Tiffany looked down, tears filing her eyes.

“This is crazy.” Jessica said.

“Will you shut up for one second?!” Minho said to Jessica.

Jessica glared at him.

“Is it me or her?” Minho repeated his question.

Tiffany finally looked up. Her face confused. “I..I..

144

Page 145: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 25 – Love

“Is it me or her?” Minho repeated his question.

Tiffany finally looked up. Her face confused.

“I..I..

Jessica held her breath, she didn’t expect for any of this.

Tiffany, you promised me..

Minho stared at Tiffany, hoping for an answer.

“I..I..

Tiffany couldn’t come out with any words. Her heart and her mind are battling against each other.

She looked at Minho.

“Nobody has to get hurt..”

Then she looked at Jessica.

“Stay with me, forever.”

She closed her eyes.

“I’m sorry.” she said suddenly.

Minho and Jessica were both shocked.

“Sorry?” Minho asked.

“I’m sorry oppa.” She said as she looked at Minho.

145

Page 146: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You have got to be kidding me..”

“I love..

..Jessica.”

Minho froze, his eyes wide.

“No matter what happen, I wish to be in love with her forever.”

Tiffany said, with a weak smile.

“Even if it’s in my dreams, I want to be dreaming of her. And fall in love with her.”

Jessica feels warm all over her body.

Tiffany..

“You’re making a big mistake here!” Minho suddenly shouted. People started to gather around them.

Tiffany was startled by his sudden outburst. Jessica rushed to her side and quickly put an arm over her shoulder.

“It’s over. Just accept it.” Jessica said.

Minho shook his head, “No. This is not over!”

A woman came rushing towards them.

“Let’s go, Minho.” She said as she grabbed his arm. She’s trying to control the situation before it gets out of hand.

“Let me go Hyo!” Minho pulled his hand away.

He stared at Tiffany.

“I gave you one last chance, and you blew it.”

Tiffany gulped.

“You chose to be with her, instead of me.”

“Enough Minho, let’s go.” Hyoyeon kept pulling his arm.

“You’re going to regret this.”

He looked at Jessica, his eyes burning with anger.

“Jessica, you are never going to win this. I swear.”

146

Page 147: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica hugged Tiffany tightly. Tears couldn’t stop rolling down from Tiffany’s eyes. She’s sobbing badly. Jessica gently rubbed her back, hoping that it will ease her sadness. But it only made it worse. Tiffany continued to sob; Jessica can feel her dress getting wet with tears.

“I don’t want to lose you.” Tiffany said.

“Honey, don’t worry.”

Tiffany tightens her arms around Jessica.

“I’m not going anywhere.”

“I love you too much.” Tiffany said, burying her face in Jessica’s hair.

Jessica doesn’t know why, but she has a bad feeling about this. She gently caressed Tiffany’s hair and kissed her wet cheeks. They sat on a bench, away from the crowd.

“Nothing can come between us, I promise.”

Tiffany snuggled closer.

“I am born to love you.” Jessica said as she gently rubbed Tiffany’s shoulder.

Tiffany looked at Jessica’s face.

“Why you love me so much?” she asked.

Jessica chuckled, “Love doesn’t need a reason.”

“I just love everything about you.” She added.

Tiffany smiled and reached her hand to touch Jessica’s cheek. Then she saw it.

“What happened to your face?”

Jessica stared at Tiffany, not sure what to answer.

“Did..she slapped you?”

Jessica held Tiffany’s hand, “It’s nothing.”

“You got hurt because of me.”

“It’s nothing. It doesn’t even hurt a bit.”

Tiffany looked away, feeling guilty.

“Hey, look at me.” Jessica said, holding Tiffany’s face with her hands.

“It’s not your fault.”

Tiffany stared deeply into Jessica’s eyes.

It is my fault.

147

Page 148: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica slowly pressed her lips on Tiffany’s. It’s amazing how a kiss can make her forget about everything else.

**

“Minho, are you crazy?” Hyoyeon asked as they’re away from the crowd.

Minho buried his face in his palms, trying to relax.

“As your manager, I need to stop you from ruining your image.”

“That girl..

Minho paused, holding his anger.

..is supposed to be with me.”

Hyoyeon shook her head.

“Not with some spoiled blonde bitch!”

“Calm down.”

“I swear, I will make her mine..no matter what.”

Minho looked at Hyoyeon. “You know why?”

“Because that’s how it’s supposed to be.” He said, serious.

“She’s happy with someone else. If you love someone, set her free.”

“That’s some bullshit!”

Minho shouted.

“Jessica can never win. You know why?”

Hyoyeon sighed.

“Because I have something that will make Tiffany leave her.”

“You do?”

Minho nodded.

In the end, I will win.

**

148

Page 149: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

That night Jessica kept staring at Tiffany’s sleeping face. She can’t sleep. She lifted her hand and gently stroke Tiffany’s hair.

Tiffany moved closer, wrapping her arms around Jessica’s waist and tangled her legs with Jessica’s.

“Blankie..” Tiffany mumbled in her sleep.

Jessica smiled. She tightens her arms around her sleeping girlfriend.

I’m not going anywhere.

She gently kissed Tiffany’s forehead.

I love you too much.

**

“Love and friendship?”

It’s another day at the office, they are discussing on an upcoming article.

“Yeah, what do you girls think?” Jessica asked, she’s sitting on her desk.

“It’s an interesting topic.” Seohyun said.

“It’s cool. A lot of people can relate to it.” Sooyung replied.

“I want some personal opinion on this.” Jessica ordered.

“Hmm...I think..your lover can also be your best friend..something like that..” Tiffany said.

Jessica sighed, “Tiffany, I need it to be more specific than just ‘something like that’.”

Tiffany looked down, a little hurt. Jessica can be very serious at work.

“What about the kids? You two seem pretty quiet today.” Jessica said to Yoona and Yuri.

Yuri and Yoona stared at Jessica, blank.

“Yoona, what do you think?”

Yoona kept silent, unsure of what to say.

“Well?”

“I think it’s complicated.”

“Especially if..you fall in love with your best friend.”

“Elaborate.”

149

Page 150: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Yoona paused.

“I think these two things shouldn’t mix.” Yuri suddenly said.

“Love and friendship. It’s two separate things.” She added.

Yoona bit her lip.

It hurts.

“But..

Yoona paused.

..love is not something that we can control.”

“Like..yourself Sica unnie, did you plan to fall in love with Tiffany?”

Jessica looked at Yoona, “I didn’t exactly plan it..”

“And you Fany unnie, you plan to marry Minho and look what happen now.” Yoona added, throwing her hands in the air.

“Did you plan to fall in love with Sica unnie?” she continued to ask.

Tiffany stared at Yoona, unsure of what to answer.

“Well?”

“I fell in love with her the moment I saw her at the cafe..” Tiffany said.

“This thing just happens, I guess.” She added, smiling.

“I fell in love with you through my dreams.” Jessica said, smiling at Tiffany. They both continued to gaze into each other’s eyes.

The office fell into silence.

“But you two are not friends in the first place!” Yuri said, standing up.

“How can one possibly risk a beautiful friendship for something that could break it forever?” Yuri said as she walked to Yoona.

“You think I ask for this?!” Yoona said, staring at Yuri.

“You are selfish.” Yuri said.

“How about you?” Yoona asked. She stood up so that her eyes are at the same level as Yuri’s.

The whole office were shocked at the two’s sudden debate.

“What is going on here?” Sooyoung said.

“Look me in the eyes..

150

Page 151: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Yoona paused.

..and tell me how you feel about me.”

151

Page 152: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 26 – Past

“Look me in the eyes..

Yoona paused.

..and tell me how you feel about me.”

Yuri was shocked. She didn’t expect Yoona to ask her this direct, in front of everybody.

“I..I..

Yuri bit her lip before turning around and left the office.

Yoona sit at her desk and pretended to be busy with nothing. She’s hurt by Yuri’s rejection and denial.

“Yoona, are you okay?” Tiffany asked her cousin as she gently rubbed her back.

Yoona forced a smile and looked up, “I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.”

Tiffany smiled back at her, but deep down she knew how hurting Yoona is. Her cousin has always acted strong and tough on the outside, but she’s crying inside.

**

“Honey, let’s go on a date.”

Tiffany raised an eyebrow at her girlfriend.

“Date? Since when are you that free? You’re always busy, even on weekends.”

Jessica smiled, “I’m free this weekend.”

“Yeah right, you already cancelled two movie dates with me.” Tiffany pouted.

“I promise I won’t cancel it this time.”

Tiffany rolled her eyes.

“I’m all yours to use this Sunday.” Jessica said as she makes a puppy expression.

Tiffany chuckled, it’s way too cute to resist, “Promise?”

**

152

Page 153: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica and Tiffany are sitting on a park bench. They had just finished watching the movie.

“I want to stay like this forever.” Jessica said, she had her head on Tiffany’s shoulder.

Tiffany played with Jessica’s hand on her lap.

“Jessi, did you remember the day you saved me?”

“Of course. It’s the first time I undress..”

Jessica paused, her cheeks hot, “Never mind.” She slowly closes her eyes.

Tiffany laughed, “Is that all you remember?!”

“No! I remember everything.”

“Remember what I said to you about my parents?”

Jessica slowly opened her eyes. “Yes.”

“Would you like to know the whole story?”

Jessica turned to look at Tiffany, she gently caressed her cheek.

“Tell me only when you’re ready.”

Tiffany sighed and looked to the sky, “It was just another day.”

“Dad was at work that day. Me and mommy were arguing again.”

Jessica reached for Tiffany’s hand and holds it tight.

“I’ve always wanted to be a singer. But my parents were against it.”

“I had this great offer to join an entertainment company in Korea and I really wanted to go.”

Tiffany paused.

“But my mom took my passport to prevent me from leaving. I was so angry. I shouldn’t though, but I was only 17 that time, just an immature idiot.”

Tears started to form in Tiffany’s eyes.

“I stormed out of the house and took my sister’s car. I sped off.”

“Mommy was worried about me..

Tiffany looked down.

..she drove her car to look for me.”

Jessica gently rubbed Tiffany’s shoulder.

“I saw her chasing me but..

153

Page 154: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

..I didn’t stop the car.”

Tears started to rolls down her cheeks.

“The next thing I remember was..a crashing sound.”

Tiffany looked at Jessica, “A truck hit her car..

..and she’s gone.”

Jessica stared at Tiffany’s face.

“Come here.” She pulled her into an embrace.

“It’s my fault.” Tiffany said, sobbing.

“No it isn’t.” Jessica said.

“Yes it is! Everybody kept saying that it is my fault.”

“No it’s not.” Jessica repeated.

“My dad blamed me.”

Jessica kept rubbing Tiffany’s back.

“My sister blamed me.” She continued.

Tiffany closed her eyes and buried her face in Jessica’s hair.

“My dad never talks to me after that incident.”

Tiffany said.

“And it’s been six years.”

**

“Okay, today I’ll let you have one request.” Jessica said.

“One request?”

“Yes, you can ask me to do anything and I’ll do it for you.”

Jessica is trying to cheer her girlfriend after the emotional conversation at the park.

“Anything?”

“Yes anything.” Jessica said confidently.

154

Page 155: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

They were walking along the shops with their hands intertwined.

“Wait!” Tiffany stopped in front of an arcade.

“Why? You want to play games? How old are you?” Jessica asked, teasing.

Tiffany smirked, “Not me, you.”

Jessica stared at Tiffany and then at the arcade.

“No.” Jessica shook her head.

“You promised that you’ll do anything.”

Jessica bit her lip and sighed.

“Fine.”

“There!” Tiffany pointed at a machine. It’s one of the machines that have plush toys in it.

“I want that one. Get it for me.” Tiffany pointed at a doll in the machine.

Jessica eyes went wide when she saw the plush toy. Tiffany had requested for a cucumber plush toy.

“Why on earth is there a cucumber plush toy?!” Jessica said, annoyed.

Tiffany giggled. “Why, you can’t do it?”

Jessica looked at Tiffany, “I never played this game before.”

“You have to control this so that you can grab the toy.” Tiffany showed Jessica the controller.

“Look at him.” Tiffany pointed at a guy trying to get his girlfriend a toy from the machine.

Jessica observed him.

“Yes!” the guy shouted. He successfully grabbed a teddy bear for his girlfriend.

“Thanks baby! I love you!” his girlfriend said as she kissed the guy’s cheeks.

Jessica sighed, “I want a kiss too.”

Tiffany smiled.

“I’ll give you a kiss, and so much more.” She winked.

Jessica blushed.

“Okay, I’ll try.”

155

Page 156: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

An hour later..

“Jessi, honey it’s okay.”

“No! I must get it for you!”

“I’m tired. Let’s go home” Tiffany said as she pulled Jessica away from the machine.

“But..I promised.”

Tiffany smiled, “It’s okay.”

**

“Stay with me tonight.” Tiffany said shyly as they reached her front door.

Jessica smiled and shook her head.

“I have a family dinner to attend tonight. My parents are back from States.”

Tiffany nodded. “Oh.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow.” Jessica said.

“Um..yeah.”

Jessica turned around and smiled.

She will call me..

In 3..

2..

1 ..

“Aren’t you forgetting something?” Tiffany said.

Jessica grinned. She turned around.

Tiffany is pouting.

Aww..so cute.

Jessica walked towards her girlfriend. She hugged her tightly.

“Now we’re okay?”

156

Page 157: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany still pouts.

“Kiss me stupid.”

Jessica chuckled; she held Tiffany’s face and kissed her gently.

“I’ll be cold tonight. No blankie.”

Jessica stroke Tiffany’s hair gently, “Blankie will be with you tomorrow night.”

**

Family dinner is boring. The Jung family will usually gather for dinner once a month. For Jessica it’s the most boring time of the month. The Jung family consists of Jessica’s Grandfather, Mr. Albert Jung, her parents, Michael and Julia, her aunt, Joanna and her husband Kim, her cousins, Hyun Joong and Hara, Krystal and herself.

Jessica chewed her food slowly thinking why she’s here with these boring people when at the same time she can be snuggling comfortably in Tiffany’s embrace on the bed.

She smiled at the thought.

“Why are you smiling?” Hara asked.

Jessica choked her food upon hearing Hara’s question. She reached for a glass of water.

“Probably thinking perverted thoughts about Pillow..ahhhh!”

Jessica pinched Krystal’s arm before she’s embarrassing her in front of the whole family. Hyun Joong chuckled.

“Are you okay, Jessica?” her grandfather asked.

Jessica hit her chest gently before looking at him.

“I’m..okay. Haha. Don’t worry.”

Jessica can feel eyes on her, she looked up, Joanna is staring at her. Jessica glared at her.

“I have something I want to tell everyone.” Joanna suddenly speaks.

Jessica has a bad feeling about this.

“It’s about Jessica.” she continued.

Oh no.

157

Page 158: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 27 – Copy

“Jessica?” Grandpa Jung asked.

Joanna nodded. Everyone at the table looked at her, waiting for her to speak.

Cold sweats started to form on Jessica’s forehead.

Is she going to tell about me and Tiffany?

“She’s doing a great job at the company.” Joanna said.

Jessica looked at her, confused.

“So great that I think it’s time that we promote her position.” Joanna continued.

Huh?

“Really?” Jessica’s dad, Michael was pleasantly surprised.

“Yes, our magazine had increased in number of sales since she joined us.”

“I’m so proud of you dear.” Jessica’s mom, Julia said.

Jessica smiled awkwardly, she didn’t expect this.

“I think it’s time for us to trust her with something bigger.” Joanna added.

Albert Jung nodded, “I agree.”

He paused.

“I have great news for you Jessica.”

Jessica stared at him, puzzled.

“You’re going back to America.”

What?!

Joanna smiled.

**

“What are you going to do now?” Krystal asked.

Jessica has been walking back and forth in her room for a few minutes.

158

Page 159: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Can you stop moving, you’re making me dizzy.”

Jessica stopped.

“Krys..what am I going to do now?” she asked.

“That’s what I’ve asking you for the past half an hour.” Krystal shrugged.

Jessica sat on her bed.

“I can’t leave Korea. I can’t leave Tiffany.”

Krystal looked at her messed up sister.

“Then don’t leave her.”

“I can’t go against grandpa’s order. You know that.” Jessica said.

“Plus, I have no excuse not to go. Joanna made me look like a perfect granddaughter.” she added, sighing.

“Auntie obviously wants to separate you and PillowFany.”

Jessica nodded, weak. “I’m lucky enough she didn’t tell them about me and Tiffany.”

Krystal shook her head, “They have to know sooner or later. You can’t keep it as a secret forever.”

“Yes, but not now.” Jessica said.

“They will do anything to make me leave Tiffany.”

Krystal shrugged, “Then take her with you.”

Jessica paused.

Take her with me?

**

“Miss Jung, you’re really early today.” asked a maid as she saw Jessica walked down the stairs.

“I have a promise that I have yet to fulfil.” she replied, smiling.

**

“Miss, we’re not opened yet.”

159

Page 160: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica is standing in front of the arcade that she and Tiffany went yesterday.

“I need to get inside.”

“We’re not open until 10 o’clock.”

Jessica sighed.

“I’ll pay you.”

The man was shocked.

“Pay me?”

“I’ll pay you so that you can get me inside.”

“Miss, are you seriously want to play that thing..”

“Shut up!” Jessica shouted.

“I’m trying to concentrate here.” she mumbled as she’s trying to grab the doll.

**

“Unnie, hurry up or we’re going to be late!” Yoona dragged the sleepy Tiffany to the office.

Tiffany yawns.

“What is wrong with you? You didn’t sleep last night?”

“I can’t sleep well. I don’t have my blankie..”

Yoona rolled her eyes.

“You should quickly marry Jessica.”

“Marry her? Ahaha that’s nice..” Tiffany was still sleepy as they walked in the office.

“OMG! That is so cute!” Yoona shouted.

She rushed to Tiffany’s desk and held the doll on her desk.

“What is that?” Tiffany walked slowly. Then she saw it.

It’s the cucumber plush toy from the arcade.

She got it for me.

160

Page 161: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany can feel her eyes are filled with tears. She’s so touched.

Jessica..

“Haaaachiuuuuu!” a person sneezed.

Seohyun quickly pulled out her gas mask.

Jessica walked in the office, holding a handkerchief on her mouth.

“Are you sick?” Seohyun asked.

Jessica shook her head as she sits at her chair.

Seohyun continues, “If you’re sick you shouldn’t come to work..

“What Seohyun is trying to say is that you could carry H1N1 and wanted you to wear the mask.” Sooyoung cut in.

Jessica stared at Seohyun in disbelief. Seohyun quickly put on her mask to avoid any virus transferred by eye contact (which is impossible). Jessica rolled her eyes.

Tiffany walked slowly to Jessica’s desk.

“Hey there.”

Jessica looked at her.

“Thanks.”

Jessica smiled, slightly blushing.

Tiffany reached for her hand and held it tight.

“I REALLY want to kiss you right now.” she said aloud.

Sooyoung suddenly stood up, “Bathroom”

Then she leaves.

Seohyun chuckled from under her mask, “Hhhuu..”

Jessica looked at Tiffany and cleared her throat, “I think I have a cold.”

“I don’t care.” Tiffany pulled her girlfriend up and dragged her out.

“Where are you two going?” Yuri asks.

Tiffany picked up a few papers from her desk, “We need to copy some documents, and we’ll be in the copy room for a while.”

“Why hhhuu..need two hhhuu.. people to hhuuu..copy papers?”

Yoona and Yuri stared at the masked Seohyun, hoping that she will eventually understand.

161

Page 162: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Seohyun paused and think. Then it hit her.

“Oh..hhhhuuu.” she’s looked down, her face red (under the mask).

Sooyoung just got back from the bathroom. Her face looked pale from throwing up. She looked around and noticed that Jessica and Tiffany are not in the office.

“They’re not around? Thank god.”

She picked up a file from her desk.

“Jessica told me to make copies of this yesterday, but I forgot.” she said as she walked to the copy room.

Seohyun, Yuri and Yoona looked at each other.

“Should..hhhhuuu..we tell..hhhhuuu...her?”

“Nah, she’ll be okay.” Yuri said, smiling mischievously.

A few minutes later..

“MY EYES!!! MY EYES!!!”

Sooyoung shouted as she ran out of the copy room as fast as she could.

Yoona, Yuri and Seohyun laughed at the sight.

“High five!” Yuri throws her hands at Yoona.

But she only received a cold glare from her.

**

“Yoona, your English is good, right?” Jessica asked.

“Average. Why?”

“I need you to accompany this new student of fashion design. He’ll be here for a few days for some observation.”

“He can’t speak Korean?”

“He’s from Thailand. I want someone who can speak English. You.”

“Fany unnie is much better than me..

162

Page 163: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica glared at Yoona.

“I’m guessing this student is a male then..”

“I hope you can help. Thanks!” Jessica said as she continued her work.

**

“Hello everyone, I’m Nickhun.”

The man introduced himself. He’s such a beautiful guy. Everyone was awed by his looks. Tiffany can’t stop staring at him.

Jessica pinched Tiffany’s arm. “Ouch!”

Jealous freak.

“Well, I’m Yoona. I’ll be your guide.” Yoona offer her hand for a handshake.

Nickhun grabbed her hand and smiled, “Nice to meet you, Yoona.”

Yuri looked at the two as they shook hands and exchange eye contact.

Her heart hurts.

Why?

Am I jealous?

163

Page 164: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 28 – Rings

“Thank you Yoona, you are too kind.” Nickhun said as he walked with Yoona to the elevator.

“Don’t mention it.” Yoona playfully hit his arm.

They reached the elevator door and stood there, waiting.

“I guess I see you tomorrow.” Yoona said, smiling.

Nickhun nodded.

Yoona bowed and turned to leave.

“Wait.”

Nickhun looked at Yoona, he seems like he wanted to say something.

“Yes?”

“I was wondering if you’re free after work?” he said, flashing his gorgeous smile.

Yoona looked at him, her heart beats fast. She didn’t know why.

“I wanted to have a dinner with you.”

Suddenly the elevator door opens, Yuri was standing there holding a file in her hand.

Yoona was surprised with Yuri’s sudden appearance. She froze.

“So? Would you like to have a dinner with me?” Nickhun repeats. Yuri heard it all. She slowly walked out of the elevator, trying to pick up Yoona’s answer.

Please say no.

Please say no.

She kept hoping.

Yoona looked up and met Yuri’s gaze. Yuri avoided her eyes immediately.

Yoona sighed. She made up her mind.

“Yes, sure. I’d love to.” Yoona replied with a smile.

Yuri can feel her heart breaks. She really didn’t want to admit it.

I’m in love with her.

No.

I’m not in love with her.

164

Page 165: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

She shook her head and walked into the office.

Oh no, I am.

**

Jessica and Tiffany are walking hand in hand in the streets of Seoul. They just had their dinner and Tiffany insisted to walk around.

“Pretty miss, come here!” the street vendors shouts.

“We have cute necklaces and bracelets for you pretty miss!” he continued.

Tiffany stopped at a stall.

“What now?” Jessica asked, annoyed. She never buys anything from the streets. She’s been doing a lot of things she never did since she started dating Tiffany.

“It’s pretty!” Tiffany said, pointing at the various accessories.

Jessica rolled her eyes. She could buy the whole stall if she wants.

“Try this!” Tiffany pulled Jessica’s hand forward.

“What are you doing?”

Tiffany put a ring around Jessica’s finger. Jessica looked at her finger. It’s just a cheap double ring.

“We don’t have couple rings.” Tiffany said. Jessica just stared at her, speechless.

“We’ll take a pair of rings!” Tiffany said.

**

Yoona and Nickhun are having dinner at a restaurant. Yoona didn’t pay any attention to any words Nickhun said. She got her mind somewhere else.

“You know..

Nickhun kept on talking. Yoona nodded at everything he said. She didn’t even know what he’s talking about.

“Er.. Yoona, I need to go to the restroom” Nickhun said suddenly.

Yoona nodded. He stood up and leaves.

165

Page 166: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Yoona sighed and looked out through the big glass window.

Stupid Yuri.

All you have to do is being honest with your feelings.

A girl walked by the restaurant. Then she stopped in front of Yoona.

Yoona looked at her.

“Yuri?”

**

Jessica stays silent on their way back.

“Why? You don’t like it?” Tiffany asked.

Jessica looked at her girlfriend.

“It’s not that. I loved it.” She smiled.

“I can only afford that.” Tiffany said sadly.

Jessica chuckled, she pulled Tiffany into a hug.

“This ring is priceless. Thank you, honey.” She said into her ear.

“Actually I was hoping that I’m the one who will buy you the ring.” Jessica added as she pulled away from the hug.

Tiffany chuckled, “Stop acting like you’re the guy in our relationship.”

Jessica laughed.

“I’m not.”

“Yes you are.”

Jessica laughed.

Tiffany stared at her girlfriend.

“I love you.” Tiffany said suddenly.

Jessica stopped laughing and looked at Tiffany.

“Just feel like saying it.” Tiffany added, slightly flustered.

Jessica smiled.

166

Page 167: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

I love you too.

**

Yuri?

What is she doing here?

Yuri smiled and waved at her from outside the big window glass. Yoona was confused but she waved back anyway. Yuri pulled out a white cardboard and started writing with a marker pen. Yoona looked at her, wondering what she wants to do.

Yuri showed the cardboard.

‘I’M SORRY’

Yoona nodded. Yuri smiled and turned around to write on another cardboard.

Yuri slowly reveals the cardboard.

‘I’M JEALOUS’

Yoona stared at Yuri. It’s quite hard for her to believe that this is happening.

Yuri wrote another sentence on another cardboard. This time she didn’t show it immediately. She took a deep breath and stared at Yoona. Yuri held the cardboard with both hands and hid her face behind it. Slowly she turned the cardboard around.

‘I LOVE YOU’

Yoona was speechless. She can feel tears in her eyes.

**

167

Page 168: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Yoona, I’m sorry made you wait..

Nickhun came back to the table and find that Yoona had left. There’s a note left on the table.

‘I’M SORRY, I HAVE AN EMERGENCY.’

**

“What’s that on your finger?” Sooyoung asked as she pulled Tiffany’s hand and looked at the double ring.

“It looked cheap.”

Tiffany pulled her hand from Sooyoung. “It means a lot to me.”

“It’s priceless.” Jessica said from behind them. Sooyoung noticed there’s something around Jessica’s neck. She wears the ring as a necklace. Jessica walked to Tiffany and gently pats her head.

Sooyoung shook her head and smile.

“You’re not going to throw up anymore?” Jessica asked.

Sooyoung shook her head.

“Really?”

Jessica leaned to Tiffany and kissed her girlfriend’s right cheek.

Sooyoung only stare at them.

“Wow, you’re really immune to our cheesiness now!” Tiffany said.

Sooyoung smiled, “I guess so.”

“What you two showcased here is nothing compared to what I saw you two did in the copy room the other day.” she added.

Tiffany and Jessica stared at her, speechless. Their face turned white.

Sooyoung shrugs, “Great technique, Jessica.”

“I’ve always been wondering how you guys do it. Now I know.” She added.

“...”

“Do what?” asked Seohyun innocently.

“DO NOTHING!” Jessica shouted, her face red.

Tiffany buried her face in her palms.

168

Page 169: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Learn to lock the door next time.” Sooyoung said, teasing.

**

“Wait me at the ice skating rink.” Jessica said.

“Okay, but don’t make me wait too long.”

Jessica kissed Tiffany’s forehead. “Only a while.”

“I’ll wait until you come. No matter how long.” Tiffany said, serious.

Jessica laughed, “You sounded dramatic.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll be there.” she added.

**

“Here are the rings that you ordered.”

Jessica had specially ordered a custom made couple rings for her and Tiffany. It is made of white gold with special imprint.

‘Napkin & Blankie Forever’

Jessica smiled.

“I’m already late for a date, can you please wrapped it fast.” Jessica said.

“Okay Miss, five minutes.”

Tiffany is waiting for her at the ice skating rink. She wanted to surprise her with the proper rings and ask her to come with her to America.

**

Jessica walked as fast as she could through the streets of Seoul. It’s crowded with a lot of people since Christmas is approaching.

She walked passed an electric store, a lot of people are gathering around to watch the televisions displayed.

169

Page 170: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Famous model Lee Min Ho..

Jessica stopped and turned to one of the television. It’s the entertainment news program.

Minho?

Jessica ended up watching the whole news segment. She still couldn’t believe what she just heard.

Tears started to fall from her eyes.

This can’t be happening..

Her heart, it hurts.

170

Page 171: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 29 – News

“So..” Yoona said as she stared at the spaghetti in her plate.

Yoona and Yuri are having dinner together after work. More like their first official date.

So..”Yuri wants to says something, but she stopped.

“So..you love me eh?” Yoona said as she nudged Yuri.

Yuri was startled, her face red. Unsure of what to answer, she quickly put a full spoon of lasagne in her mouth.

“Uhh..” as expected she choked.

Yoona shook her head and handed Yuri a glass of water.

“Is it so hard for you to say it?” Yoona asked.

Yuri gently hit her chest, recovering from the choking. She slowly looked at Yoona, who’s been smiling since they got there.

Yuri nodded slowly, and shyly.

Yoona laughed.

“Okay, repeat after me.”

Yoona said as she looked into Yuri’s eyes.

“I love Yoona.”

Yuri stared at Yoona in disbelief.

Is she trying to teach me how to speak?

“Come on, it’s easy.” Urge Yoona.

Yuri opened her mouth slowly.

“I..

..love..

Yoona nodded. “Go on.”

171

Page 172: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

..Yo..

Yoona’s eyes filled with excitement.

Just a little bit more..

..ga.”

Yoona stared at Yuri.

“You love yoga?!”

**

Tiffany is waiting at the ice skating rink. She glanced at her watch, Jessica should be there an hour ago but she’s nowhere to be seen.

Jessi, where are you?

She sat on a bench and hugged herself. The night is getting colder. She kept on waiting.

2 hours later..

Jessica still hasn’t arrived. Tiffany took out her phone and started dialling.

“The number you have dialled could not be reached at the moment..”

Tiffany shuts her phone off in frustration. Jessica never breaks her promise. So she decided to keep on waiting.

**

Yoona and Yuri continued their date with a stroll at the park.

“I..love...

172

Page 173: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Yuri swallows hard as she tried to finish her sentence.

..Yogurt..”

Yoona sighed loudly. “You love yogurt now?!”

Yuri scratched her head.

“Is it that important for you to hear it?”

“Of course it is. I want to hear you say it.” Yoona said as they walked slowly.

“I already wrote it on the cardboard..”

“It was a very cute confession..”

“I learned from Taylor Swift music video..”

“I thought so..”

They both laughed.

Yoona unconsciously held Yuri’s hand. Yuri can feel the heat on her right hand. They’ve held hands so many times before. But this time it’s different. Yuri quickly intertwined her fingers with Yoona’s.

They both smiled.

“Where did you get those cardboards and markers anyway?” Yoona asked.

“I stole them from the copy room.”

Yoona looked at Yuri.

“OMG!..Eeewww!!!”

“Why?! What’s wrong?!”

“I think Jessica and my cousin had done it on those cardboards.”

Yuri’s face turned pale. She stared at her hands in disgust.

Yoona chuckled. Then she suddenly paused.

“Hey..is that my cousin?”

**

173

Page 174: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany is shivering badly. She hasn’t moved an inch from the bench, but still no sign of Jessica.

Suddenly someone taps her shoulder. Tiffany turned around.

Yoona is staring at her. Yuri is standing right beside her.

“Yoona..”

“What are you doing here alone? It’s cold.”

“I’m waiting for Jessica..”

“How long have you been waiting here?” Yuri asked.

Tiffany sneezed before answering. “Almost 3 hours..”

Yoona’s expression’s turned dark. “She made you wait for 3 hours?!”

“It’s okay..” Tiffany said, weak.

Yoona shook her head.

“It’s late, let’s go home. You’ve waited here long enough. I don’t think she’s going to come.”

“I promised her that I’ll wait, no matter what.” Tiffany insists.

“But you’re going to get sick!”

Tiffany ignored her cousin.

Yoona sighed.

1 hour later..

“Unnie, I don’t think she’s going to come.”

Tiffany looked around the park. No Jessica.

“Let’s go home.”

**

174

Page 175: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

The next day, in the office.

Tiffany sat at her chair and stares at Jessica’s desk. It’s empty. It’s already noon and Jessica still hasn’t entered the office. Tiffany is so worried. She’s worried that something might have happened to Jessica.

Where are you?

“Fany-ah.” Sooyoung called.

But Tiffany is lost in her thoughts.

“Fany-ah!”

Tiffany turned to Sooyoung. “Yes?”

Sooyoung shook her head.

“I need to submit this to Mr.Kang at the 3rd floor. Can you come with me? He’s kinda scary.”

Tiffany gave her a wry smile, “Okay.”

3rd Floor.

The elevator door opens. Tiffany and Sooyoung walked out. But Tiffany stopped as she saw a familiar face.

“Jessica..”

Jessica looked up and their eyes met.

Tiffany walked towards Jessica.

“Why didn’t you come yesterday?” she asked.

Jessica didn’t answer.

“I was really worried about you. I can’t even reach you on the phone.” She continued.

Jessica kept staring at her.

“What happened?” she asked. She can feel something is wrong.

Jessica took a step backward.

“Jessica..”

Jessica looked around her. There’s no one but them and Sooyoung who’s been standing there with a confused face.

175

Page 176: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Jessi..

“Are you playing with me?” Jessica suddenly said.

Tiffany was shocked.

What?

“What are you talking about?”

Jessica shook her head.

“Stop acting innocent, Tiffany.”

“I don’t know what you’re saying..”

“Am I just a substitute? A rebound?” she kept on asking.

Tiffany stared at Jessica, her expression serious.

“Am I just a joke to you?” She continued.

Tiffany stared at her, confused. She has no idea what Jessica’s been saying.

“Jessi, you know how important you are to me..” Tiffany said. She reached forward to touch Jessica’s hand but Jessica pulled her hand away.

Tiffany was so surprised and hurt.

“Enough. I don’t want to talk to you right now.” Jessica said.

Soon the elevator door opens, more people rustling out. Jessica took the opportunity to leave.

“Jessica!” she called but Jessica is already too far ahead.

“What is going on?” Sooyoung asked, confused.

“I don’t know.”

**

Tiffany and Sooyoung returned to their office after submitting the documents to Mr.Kang. Tiffany hoped to meet Jessica in the office but she’s not there.

She sighed and sat at her desk. Jessica’s words playing in her head.

Am I just a substitute? A rebound?

176

Page 177: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Am I just a joke to you?

She’s trying to think why Jessica acted that way. She ended up crying.

“Fany unnie!” Seohyun called.

Tiffany quickly wiped her tears and looked up.

“What is it Seohyun?”

Seohyun looked at her, her face pale.

“Did you break up with Jessica?” she asked.

Tiffany looked at her, confused.

“No I didn’t. We’re still together...”

“But..

Seohyun paused.

..they said that you’re engaged to someone else.”

Engaged?

“What are you talking about Seohyun? I’m not engaged to anyone.”

“They said you are. It’s all over the place.”

“Who are these ‘they’?” Tiffany asked, pissed.

Seohyun turned her computer screen to Tiffany.

“The media.”

Tiffany stared at the computer screen. This is shocking.

‘FAMOUS MODEL/ACTOR LEE MIN HO ENGAGED’

Tiffany gulped and read the news.

‘Handsome model Lee Min Ho announced that he’s engaged ..

No way..

..to his girlfriend of 5 years..Hwang Tiffany.’

“What the hell is this?!” Sooyoung shouted from behind.

Tiffany shook her head. Now she understands why.

Jessica..

177

Page 178: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 30 – Something

“Jessica, please pick up the phone..”

Tiffany is walking back and forth with a phone in her hand.

“Unnie, calm down.” Yoona said.

Tiffany hung up her phone and stared at Yoona with teary eyes.

“Jessica thinks that I’m just toying with her..she..thinks the engagement is real.”

Yoona hugged her sobbing cousin. “We’ll go through this together..”

“We will tell Jessica that it’s not real.” She added.

Yoona gritted her teeth, “And I really want to beat up that bastard.”

“For now, let’s go home.”

**

Krystal went to the kitchen to grab some food for her and Sulli. Sulli is sleeping at their house again tonight.

She saw a figure sitting at the table.

“Jessica?”

Jessica is sobbing with a bottle of wine in her right hand. Krystal quickly rushed to her sister.

“What are you doing?!”

Jessica ignored her sister and tries to drink more of the wine. Krystal grabbed the bottle from her sister’s hand.

“Hey!” Jessica shouted.

“You’re drinking? I thought you will pass out after a sip..” Krystal asked.

Suddenly Jessica bursts into laughter. Krystal was quite scared of her sister’s behaviour.

“I know right..but the weird thing is..

Jessica said, tipsy.

..I can drink well tonight.” She added with a laugh.

178

Page 179: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Krystal sat down at the chair beside her sister and gently patted her back.

“What happened?” she asked slowly.

Jessica slowly turned to face her sister.

“PillowFany..tricked me..”

Tears started to flow from her eyes.

Krystal stared at her sister in shock. “That’s impossible..”

“Krystal..I..

Jessica paused and wiped her tears.

..love Tiffany very much.”

Jessica smiled.

“I love her even more than myself..”

**

Yoona and Tiffany drive back to their house. Tiffany slowed down her car as she saw a few cars parked in front of the house.

“Why are there so many cars in front of our house?” Yoona asked, puzzled.

Tiffany shrugged.

“There are people in our house.” Yoona added.

“Isn’t that your dad’s car?” Tiffany asked as she saw a familiar car.

Yoona nodded. “Yeah, they came to visit us?”

**

Tiffany slowly opened her front door. She’s surprised.

“There she is!”

Tiffany’s aunt ran towards her before hugging her tightly.

“Uh..auntie. What a pleasant surprise..” she said, a bit suffocated by the hug.

179

Page 180: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I’m so happy for you.” A familiar voice is heard.

Tiffany stared at the person, surprised. Her sister, Veronica walked towards her.

“You’re..here?” she asked, surprised.

Veronica hugged her tightly, “We wouldn’t miss this event.”

Tiffany stared at her, very confused.

“Event? We?”

Veronica smiled, “Me and dad.”

Tiffany stared at her, still in shock.

“Dad..is here too?”

A man walked towards her.

Tiffany can’t even believe this is real. Her dad from America came to visit her in Korea?

“Congratulations.” He said before hugging Tiffany tightly.

Tiffany froze in her dad’s hug. They never spoke in almost 6 years and now he’s in her house, hugging her. Tiffany can’t believe this is happening.

Yoona was equally surprised to see her parents there.

“Mom, why are you here? With uncle and Veronica unnie..” Yoon asked to her mom.

“Oh come on, like you didn’t know it.” Her mom slapped Yoona’s arm.

Yoona stared at her mom.

“We’re here for the wedding!”

Wedding?

“Whose?” Tiffany asked, confused.

Veronica laughed, “Yours of course!”

Tiffany didn’t even know how to react. Her whole family knew about the fake engagement.

“Minho told us everything. He’s such a nice man.” Her aunt said.

“You’re so lucky.” add Veronica.

Mr. Hwang stared at her daughter, smiling.

“I wish your mom can be here.”

“I need to tell you something.”

180

Page 181: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

**

Tiffany dragged her sister Veronica in her room. Yoona followed them and closed the door.

“What’s up?” Veronica asked.

Tiffany is walking back and forth in front of her, trying to find the right words to say.

“Hurry up Steph, I’m tired due to jet lag.”

“Minho called you and said that there’ll be a wedding?” Yoona suddenly asked.

Veronica nodded.

“Yes, he even sent us the invitation cards. He said that you wanted to surprise us.”

Veronica looked at Tiffany.

“You have no idea how happy dad was upon hearing the news. You know how much he loves Minho.”

Tiffany and Yoona looked at each other.

“Dad and Minho’s father are like best friends. And to him he is like..a son he never had.” Veronica added.

Tiffany sighed.

“What is wrong with you? You seems..restless.”

Tiffany sat on the bed and buried her face in her palms. Yoona shook her head.

“Something is wrong here. You’re not happy with this?”

Tiffany looked up.

“I’m not even engaged to him. In fact we’ve broken up.”

Veronica stared at Tiffany, shocked.

“What?!”

Tiffany nodded.

“I’m..dating someone else.” she added, slowly.

Veronica stares blankly at Tiffany.

“Who?” she asked.

Tiffany looked at her sister.

181

Page 182: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“What?”

“Who are you really dating then?”

Tiffany looked away from her sister’s gaze. She looked at Yoona, Yoona shrugs.

“I’m dating Jessica.” she said with a sigh. She knew this is not going to be easy.

“Jessi..

Veronica paused. Then she stares at Tiffany, her eyes wide.

“A girl?”

Tiffany nodded weakly, “It’s complicated.”

Veronica’s face expression changed. She seems disgusted. She looked at Tiffany and then to Yoona.

“And you two think this is okay?!”

“That’s not the point. The problem right now is that I’m not engaged to Minho. And we have to tell dad and everyone else about this.” Tiffany said.

Veronica scoffed, “We?”

Tiffany looked at her sister. She seems pissed.

“There’s no ‘we’ in this.” Veronica said.

“Tell him yourself.” She added.

Tiffany was surprised by her sister’s words.

“How exactly are you going to tell him this?” Veronica asked.

“Oh dad, I’m not engaged to your favourite man, it’s all a mistake..” Veronica mocked Tiffany’s voice.

Tiffany was speechless. Veronica leaned closer to Tiffany.

“..and also dad, I’m a lesbian.” Veronica said to Tiffany’s face.

Tiffany shook her head, her heart hurts.

“How could you?” she asked, her voice shakes.

Yoona stared at the two siblings in disbelief. She was shocked by Veronica’s actions. Also furious.

“I dare you to tell dad about this, Steph.” Veronica continues.

Tiffany stood up. “What do you mean?”

“You know well dad has a very bad heart condition. He can’t handle such shocking news.”

Tiffany bit her lip.

182

Page 183: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Are you trying to kill dad too?” Veronica asked.

Tiffany can feel her heart breaking.

“Not only that you killed mom..

“ENOUGH!” Yoona shouted.

Veronica turned her head to look at Yoona.

“You’re hurting her.” Yoona said.

Veronica scoffed.

“I’m just telling the truth here.”

Tiffany can’t hold her tears anymore. It rolled down her cheeks.

Yoona stared at Veronica in anger.

Veronica shook her head.

“Whatever. You two clean this mess yourself. I’m not going to involve myself in this.”

Veronica walked to the door and glared at Yoona. She exited the room and leaves the cousins alone.

Tiffany started to cries badly. Yoona rushed to her side and hugged her.

“Why is this happening?” Tiffany said, sobbing in Yoona’s embrace.

Yoona shook her head. Suddenly tears started to fall from her eyes. She feels so sad for Tiffany.

“We’ll get through this, unnie.”

183

Page 184: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 31 – Idiot

Mr. Hwang is sitting in the living room alone, watching the TV. Yoona’s parents already went back to their house an hour ago. Tiffany looked at her dad from the kitchen. She still can’t believe that her dad is in her house. She took a deep breath and walks slowly towards the living room. Mr. Hwang smiled as he sees her daughter coming.

He’s smiling at me?

Even though it’s awkward, Tiffany managed to smile back at her father before sitting at one of the couch.

They both sat there, staring at the TV screen.

“It’s been a while since I watch this kind of Korean variety show.” Mr. Hwang said.

Tiffany just noticed that they’re watching Star King on SBS.

“Oh..” she replied, short.

Awkwardness filled the atmosphere again.

“I’m so happy for you, Stephanie.”

Tiffany looked at her father, surprised.

“He’s a really nice man.” He added.

Tiffany smiled weakly.

Nice?

“Urm, dad. How’s your health?” Tiffany asked, trying to avoid the topic.

Mr. Hwang laughed.

“I’m good. This heart just needs happy news.” He said, smiling.

Tiffany chuckled.

“Your marriage will be the best medicine for me.”

**

Tiffany goes to work the other day with a hope of meeting Jessica. She’s been trying to reach her since last night but Jessica turned off her phone.

184

Page 185: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

She walked into the office only to find an empty desk. Tiffany tries to act normal, but the whole office knows she’s hurting.

Sooyoung sighed as she saw Tiffany turned on her computer and keep acting like nothing happens. Deep inside she’s cursing Jessica for leaving Tiffany alone in this situation.

“Unnie..would you like anything? I’m going to the vending machine.” Seohyun asked Tiffany.

Tiffany smiled, “It’s okay Seohyun-ah.”

“Are you sure?” Seohyun gently patted Tiffany’s shoulder.

Tiffany nodded.

Seohyun sighed and turned around.

“Wait.” Tiffany called.

“Yes unnie.”

Tiffany smiled, but Seohyun can see the sadness in her eyes.

“Can you buy me some milk?”

**

Minho is sitting in the makeup chair. He’s on the set of a photoshoot for a magazine. He smiles in satisfaction as he looked at his reflection in the mirror.

“Your fiancé is here to see you.” One of the makeup artists said.

Minho turned his head to look at the door. Tiffany is standing there, staring at him.

“Can you guys leave us alone for a minute?” Minho said to the other people in the room.

They leave Tiffany and Minho alone and close the door.

“Hey, baby. Miss me?” Minho asked, teasing.

“What are you doing?” Tiffany asked.

Minho looked away, “This is how it supposed to be, Tiffany.”

“Cancel this stupid engagement.” Tiffany said as she walked towards Minho.

Minho laughs.

“Why should I?”

Tiffany gritted her teeth.

185

Page 186: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You should be ashamed of yourself.”

“Don’t blame this on me. I’m just doing things according to the supposed plan. Why don’t you try to cancel this yourself?” Minho asked.

“If you can.” He added.

Tiffany walked closer to Minho.

“How could you?! You know well that my dad is sick, you know well that he hates me..”

Minho scoffed, “You should be thankful that because of me, he started talking to you again”

Tiffany stared at him in disbelief.

“Are you willing to marry me, knowing that I don’t even love you?”

“I don’t care. As long as you’re mine.”

“But my heart belongs to Jessica.”

Minho scoffed.

“At least I got your body.”

Tiffany took a step backwards.

“You’re crazy!”

Minho nodded.

“It’s not crazy, baby. It’s love.”

Tiffany shook her head and leaves the room.

Minho watches Tiffany as she leaves.

He sighed.

I’m not going to let you go.

**

Jessica buries herself under the blanket. She’s not sure what the time is, she’s been in bed for hours.

Tiffany..

How could you do this to me?

“I miss you, napkin..” she said aloud.

186

Page 187: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Then go meet her you idiot!!” a voice said.

Suddenly her blanket was pulled away from her.

Jessica saw her sister staring at her.

“She’s engaged to someone else..” Jessica said.

Krystal throws the blanket to the floor.

“You never gave her a chance to explain, idiot.”

Jessica continues to stare at her sister.

“I’m not an idiot.”

“Yes you are. You don’t trust her? You’re an idiot.”

“Stop calling me an idiot.”

“That Minho probably made up the whole news, you can’t think of that yourself?”

Jessica stares at her sister.

“That’s why I said you’re an idiot.”

Krystal sighed.

“You really have to listen to a 16 year old for advice?!”

“Gosh, I am an idiot!!” Jessica said as she climbed down the bed.

Krystal nodded.

“My poor idiot sister.”

**

Tiffany stormed out from the photoshoot, feeling emotionally drained. She hasn’t meet Jessica since yesterday and she really need her support right now. She walked by the park and saw the bench that she always sits with Jessica. Her heart felt heavy as she walked slowly towards the bench.

I really miss you, Jessi.

She sat on the bench.

I really need you right now.

Tiffany pulled out her phone and call Jessica.

187

Page 188: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“..please leave a message after..”

Tiffany closes her eyes, trying hard not to cry. She opens her mouth slowly.

“Jessi, I really need you..

..I really miss you..

..please come to the park..

..I’m waiting for you..

Tiffany paused as the tears rolled down her cheeks. She wiped it with her other hand.

.. at our bench..

..I’ll wait until you come..

..no matter how long..

She paused again.

..Honey, I love you..

..only you.”

188

Page 189: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 32 – Forever (PG)

..Honey, I love you.

...only you.”

Beep.

Jessica just turned on her phone and received the voice message from Tiffany.

Tiffany..

“Why are you still standing there? Go to her!” Krystal shouted.

Jessica looked at her sister, blank.

Krystal grabbed her sister’s shoulders.

“Listen to your baby sister. I said go to the girl of your dreams.”

**

Tiffany is sitting at the park bench, hugging herself. The day is getting late, but she still sits there, waiting for Jessica.

Tiffany glanced at her watch, it’s almost 9 pm. She’s been waiting there for almost 4 hours.

“Hey napkin.”

Tiffany turned around to the voice almost immediately.

“Jessi..” Tears started to fill her eyes.

Jessica is standing not too far from her, smiling.

Tiffany stood up and ran to Jessica. She hugged her tightly, causing Jessica to almost stumble backwards.

“Blankie..”

Tiffany buries her face in Jessica’s blonde hair. She wrapped her arms around Jessica’s waist and holds it tight.

“I can’t breathe..” Jessica said.

189

Page 190: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany slowly loosens her arms around Jessica before letting her go completely. She took a few steps away from Jessica.

Jessica stared at Tiffany, confused.

“I HATE YOU!!”

Jessica was surprised to hear Tiffany’s words.

Tiffany stared at Jessica, tears rolled down her cheeks.

“You don’t f**kin’ trust me?!” she shouted.

Jessica tries to calm Tiffany down. “Honey..”

“How..could you..

Suddenly Tiffany hit Jessica with her both her hands repeatedly.

“How could you just leave me alone like this?!”

Jessica held Tiffany’s hand from hitting her. “Tiffany..”

“Did you know how much I needed you and you weren’t there?!” Tiffany continued.

“You accused me without asking me anything first! You even left me waiting for hours!” she keeps on shouting.

Suddenly Jessica pulled Tiffany into a tight embrace. She caressed Tiffany’s back gently, calming her down.

Tiffany slowly stops hitting Jessica and returned the hug.

“This blankie is an idiot.” Jessica whispered slowly.

Tears rolls down her cheeks. “You must have been through a lot..”

“Idiot blankie..” Tiffany said, sobbing.

“Can napkin forgive this idiot blankie?”

Tiffany chuckled, suddenly all her anger had gone away. She’s so weak when it comes to Jessica.

Tiffany tightens her arms around Jessica’s waist. “You’re lucky. This napkin loves the idiot blankie waayyy too much.”

**

190

Page 191: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“It’s getting late, you should go home now.”

Jessica said as they walked around the park. Tiffany had told her girlfriend everything.

“No.” Tiffany said as she held tight to Jessica’s arm.

“You will leave me.” She added pouting.

Jessica chuckled, “No I won’t.”

“I want to be with you tonight.” Tiffany said.

Jessica looked at her girlfriend, she seems serious.

“We can’t go to your house since your dad and sister are there.”

“Let’s go to your house.”

Jessica shook her head, “Can’t. My grandpa is there. It’s going to be hard to explain why I’m bringing a friend for a ‘sleepover’ at 23 years old of age.”

Tiffany laughed.

“We are not going to sleep tonight.”

Jessica blushed and looked down.

“You’re pretty shy when it comes to this.” Tiffany teased.

Jessica chuckled, “And you still saying that I’m the pervert one out of us.”

“It’s because you are.”

“I’m not!”

“I wonder who started the skin-to-skin treatment thing?”

Jessica scoffed. “And who can’t wait to get the unfinished business finished?”

“You kissed me in public!”

“And you’re the one who seduce me to make out in the copy room!”

Tiffany laughed, “But you like it.”

“I can’t believe we’re arguing about this.” Jessica said, shaking her head.

Tiffany laughs as she pulled Jessica’s right hand and kissed it lovingly.

They had walked until they reached a hotel.

Jessica looked at her girlfriend. She held her hand tightly.

“Come on, honey.”

191

Page 192: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

**

Jessica stroke Tiffany’s hair gently as they lay on the bed. Tiffany rested her head on Jessica’s chest, listening to her heartbeat.

“What are we going to do now?” Tiffany asked.

Jessica sighed before kissing Tiffany’s forehead.

“I’ll think of something.” she said, slowly.

“I don’t want to marry him.”

“I’m not going to let that happen.”

Jessica rubbed Tiffany’s bare shoulder gently, “You’re mine.”

Tiffany smiled.

She moved down and planted a soft kiss on Jessica’s bare stomach, “I’m yours forever”.

Jessica held Tiffany’s hand and look at her fingers. She’s still wearing their cheap couple rings. Jessica chuckled.

“Honey, I have something for you.”

Tiffany looked up to Jessica, excited, “Really?”

Jessica reached to her clothes on the floor and grabs a box from the pocket of her coat.

“What is that?” Tiffany asked as she crawled closer to Jessica’s face.

Jessica opens the box. There are two silver rings.

“I told you that I wanted to give you rings.”

Tiffany was pleasantly surprised, “Wow, they are beautiful.”

She suddenly hit Jessica’s arm, playfully.

“Why?!” Jessica asked.

“You still want to be the guy.” Tiffany said, smirking.

Jessica chuckled, “Whatever.”

Tiffany took one of the rings and look at it closely.

Tiffany laughed, “Napkin & Blankie Forever?”

Jessica blushed, “Why not?”

192

Page 193: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“You are so cheesy.”

Jessica laughed, “You have a cheesy girlfriend, deal with it.”

“Will you really love me forever?” Tiffany asked coyly.

Jessica caressed Tiffany’s cheek gently, “Forever and a day.”

Tiffany leaned closer to Jessica, their forehead touching each other. She then wrapped her arm around Jessica’s neck.

“Thank you blankie..” She whispered.

Jessica smiled.

Tiffany pressed her lips with Jessica’s. There’s no other better way to say thanks than a few sweet kisses and more.

“I love you napkin.”

193

Page 194: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 33 – Only

“Who is that beautiful woman?” a male staff said to his friend.

The blonde haired woman walked arrogantly but beautifully, ignoring every one that’s been staring at her since she entered the agency building.

“A new model?” asked another staff. They thought it could be a new model to enter their modelling agency.

The woman stepped into an office and stopped at a desk.

“I need to talk to you.”

Minho looked up to find Jessica staring at him. She appeared calm, but there’s an obvious fury in her eyes.

Minho smiled, “I’ve been expecting you.”

**

Minho and Jessica sat at a nearby restaurant to talk. But there’s no words exchange between them for the past 15 minutes.

“I’m not going to let her go.” Minho said, serious.

Jessica stared outside the window, “Too bad, me too.”

Minho laughed, “Then there’s nothing to talk about.”

Jessica stared at Minho.

“She doesn’t love you.”

Minho rolled his eyes. “So?”

“You’re using her father.”

“I’m doing anything I can.”

“You’re despicable.”

Minho scoffed, “You’re hopeless.”

Jessica looked away from Minho’s gaze.

“I’ll pay you any amount so that you let her go.”

194

Page 195: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Minho laughed, “Is that all you can do? Pay me?”

Jessica bit her lip.

“I’ll do anything I can.”

Minho glared at Jessica, “I don’t want your money.”

“Wait, it’s your family’s money.” He added with a smirk.

Jessica fists her hand, trying to stay calm.

“She’s suffering because of you.”

“She’ll thank me someday.”

“What are you talking about?” Jessica asked, pissed.

“I’m saving her from you. I can give her a normal life.”

Jessica stared at Minho, furious. “Is that what you call a normal life? Forcing her to marry someone she doesn’t love?”

“Well, it’s better than being with someone like you.”

“Watch your mouth, Minho.”

“Did I offend you?”

Jessica stared at him.

“It’s a fact that you’re a lesbian.”

“The only girl I ever have feelings to is Tiffany.”

“So you’re only being gay for Tiffany? You think I’m going to believe that?”

“I don’t care about what you think.”

Silence fall upon them.

“She loves me. And that’s all that matters.”

Minho shook his head, “Sometimes love alone is not enough.”

“Let her decide her own life.” Jessica added.

Minho stared at Jessica, “You’re pathetic.”

“Don’t challenge me, Minho.”

Minho smiled, “Seriously Jessica, there’s nothing that you can do. If you really love Tiffany, the best thing you can do right now is to let her go.”

195

Page 196: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Her dad has a serious heart problem. He can’t accept any shocking news.” Minho added.

Jessica kept silent.

“Are you going to make Tiffany kill her own father?”

Jessica bit her lip.

“You are selfish, Jessica.”

“Shut up! You’re the one who created this stupid engagement. You are heartless.”

“Call me anything you want. I’ll do anything to have Tiffany.”

Jessica gritted her teeth; the thought of Tiffany being with another person is killing her.

“Imagine this Jessica, she’ll be by my side every morning.”

Jessica stared at Minho in anger, “Stop it.”

“And every night..”

“I said stop it!” Jessica stood up immediately.

“She is torn between her family and your stupid love!!” Minho shouted.

Jessica tries hard not to cry. She still has her pride.

“She lives in regret of her mother’s death, and now her father.” Minho continued.

Jessica looked away.

“Let her go.”

I can’t.

I love her.

“Just..let her go.”

Should I?

**

The phone rings in the Jung residence. Julia Jung picked it up.

“Hello, this is the Jung residence.” she speaks to the phone.

“Hello! Can I speak to Ms. Jessica Jung, please? I tried to reach her phone but failed.” the voice at the other line said.

196

Page 197: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“She’s not around at the moment, may I know whom speaking?”

“Oh, I’m Aaron from My Diamonds, the jewellery shop.”

Jewellery shop?

“Okay, can I know why you’re looking for Jessica? Don’t worry, this is her mother.”

“Oh, I just wanted to inform her that she forgot her free gift for her rings purchase the other day. It’s a silver necklace.”

Julia paused, quite surprised.

“Rings?”

“Yes, Miss Jung bought a pair of couple rings at our store.”

“What kind of couple rings?”

“Er..the lovers kind. But both rings are about the same size though. Both are girls’ size.”

Girls couple rings?

“Can you please tell Ms Jessica to pick up her gift at our shop?” Aaron asked.

“Yes, don’t worry. I’ll tell her.” Julia said before hanging up.

She sat down at a couch nearby, looking confused.

Jessica?

**

Jessica returned to her house quite late. She’s a bit stressed after her meeting with Minho. Slowly she walked upstairs to her room. She turned the knob to her door.

“You’re home.” A voice said.

Jessica stopped and turned around. Her mother is sitting on the sofa with her leg crossed and a glass of water in her right hand.

“Mom? You’re still up?” she asked.

Julia smiled and nodded.

“Come and sit with me.”

Jessica has a bad feeling about this but she sits on the sofa anyway.

“The maid said that you rarely sleep at home these days.”

197

Page 198: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica gulped, not saying anything.

“Where were you last night?” Julia asked.

Jessica looked down, trying to find a believable excuse.

“I was..busy working and..fell asleep at the office.” She answered.

Julia put down her glass. “Oh.”

“I miss the times when you didn’t lie to me.” Julia said.

Jessica stared at her mom, confused.

“You used to trust me with anything. No secrets between us.” She added.

“What do you mean mom? I’m not lying to you..”

Julia sighed.

“This.”

Julia handed Jessica a box.

Jessica took the box and read the label on it.

‘My Diamonds’

Oh crap.

“I picked up this free gift from the store for you.”

Jessica kept staring at the necklace.

“You forgot them when you bought the couple rings.” Julia added, casually.

Jessica slowly looked at her mom, trying to figure her out. Julia expression is soft yet serious.

“Are you in love with someone?”

Jessica didn’t answer.

“Are you in love with a girl?”

198

Page 199: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 34 – Call

Tiffany, Veronica and their dad are having dinner at their house. Yoona is out with Yuri, they said that they’re studying at the library. But who knows.

“So, the wedding is in two weeks.” Mr. Hwang said.

Tiffany nodded weakly.

“Have you gone trying for the wedding dress yet?”

Tiffany kept silent, she has no idea.

“Minho said that he’ll bring Tiffany soon. He wanted to try it together with his fiancé.” reply Veronica.

Tiffany forced a smile.

“What a nice man.” Mr. Hwang added.

Tiffany took a sip from her glass of water, trying to calm herself.

“Dad, you must be happy that your daughters are doing well.” said Veronica suddenly.

Mr. Hwang laughed.

Dad is so happy..

“Uh dad, I’m just wondering..” Veronica paused.

“What is it?”

“..how would you react if, one of your daughter..

Tiffany doesn’t feel good about this.

..doesn’t like men very much.”

Mr. Hwang laughed.

“What? Like a lesbian?” he said it like it’s a joke.

Tiffany bit her lip, trying not to cry.

“Yeah, let’s say Tiffany is into both men and women. But she wants to be with the women.” Add Veronica.

“Stop it Veronica, don’t be ridiculous.” Mr Hwang said, serious.

Tiffany can feel her heart is aching. Unable to hold her tears, she left the table.

Her dad was surprised with her actions.

199

Page 200: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Tiffany?”

Tiffany rushed to her room and locked the door. She buries her face in the pillow and cries the hardest she can.

Jessica, help me..

I don’t think I can stand this pain alone..

Suddenly someone knocked her door.

“Tiffany, open up!’ a voice called.

It’s her sister. Tiffany kept silent.

“Someone come to meet you.” Veronica said from the door.

“She says she’s your boss.”

Tiffany stood up almost immediately.

Jessica? You..come?

She quickly wiped her tears and act normal. She opened the door and slowly walked down the stairs.

There she stood.

My most beautiful woman.

My day and night.

My blankie.

Jessica turned around as she can feel Tiffany’s eyes on her. She can just sense Tiffany.

Tiffany smiled as she saw Jessica. All her pain suddenly disappears.

“I have a few things related to work that I need to discuss with her.” Jessica said to Mr. Hwang.

“I’m really sorry that I disturb your family dinner.” Jessica added politely.

Tiffany was shocked. She has never seen Jessica acting that polite to anyone.

Mr. Hwang smiled. “It’s okay, it seems like Tiffany is really needed in the office.”

Jessica laughed. “Yes Mr. Hwang, I don’t know what I’d do without her around.”

Mr. Hwang smiled proudly.

“She’s very smart and creative. You must be very proud to have such a great daughter.” Jessica added.

Mr. Hwang smiled. “Well, Tiffany is special.”

200

Page 201: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica nodded. “She’s very special.”

Veronica is still stunned by Jessica’s breathtaking beauty. It’s like watching a talking sculpture.

“You wanted to see me, Miss Jung?” Tiffany asked.

Jessica nodded. “Hmm, can we discuss this outside?”

Tiffany nodded politely, “Sure.”

“Wait, what’s your name again?” Mr. Hwang asked.

Jessica gave her best smile, “I’m Jessica.”

Jessica?

Veronica suddenly remembered.

Oh, she’s Jessica.

She smiled as she shook her head.

No wonder..

**

“What are you doing here?!” Tiffany asked as they are alone outside.

Jessica intertwined her hand with Tiffany.

“You called. So I came.” she replied with a smile.

“But..I didn’t call you..”

“I can feel that you need me.”

Tiffany stared at Jessica, her eyes are teary.

Jessica..

Tiffany leaned her head on Jessica’s shoulder as they stand.

“Thank you.”

Jessica gently kissed Tiffany’s cheek while holding tight to her hand.

“So you met my family.” Tiffany looked at Jessica.

“They’re not that bad.”

201

Page 202: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany chuckled.

“You were so polite, I almost didn’t recognize you.”

“Hey, you’re saying like I’m such a rude person.”

“Not rude but arrogant.”

Jessica pouted.

“But I think that’s very hot.”

Jessica raised an eyebrow.

“Arrogant is hot?”

Tiffany gently caressed Jessica’s cheeks.

“There are times when anything you do seems hot to me.”

“Like now.” Tiffany added, coyly.

They both stare into each other’s eyes, intense.

“Tiffany, we are standing in front of your house.”

“So?”

“With your dad and your sister inside.”

“Screw them.”

Tiffany pulled Jessica in for a kiss. The innocent kiss suddenly turned into a heated one. Tiffany held both Jessica’s hand and pinned her against the wall.

Jessica pulled away from the kiss, slightly panting.

She has to stop it before it gets out of hand.

“Honey, relax.”

She can feel that something is wrong. Tiffany doesn’t usually act like this.

“Are you okay?” she says, rubbing her girlfriend’s shoulder.

Tiffany bit her lip and looked down.

“Jessi, I don’t want to marry him.” she said.

Jessica slid her hands on Tiffany’s waist, pulling her close.

“But..I don’t want to break my dad’s heart. I..really don’t know what to do.” she added.

Jessica kept silent.

202

Page 203: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I love you.” Tiffany continued.

“I will die without you.”

Jessica didn’t know what to say.

“Jessica, I love you so much.”

“I really love you.” Tiffany repeats.

Jessica hugged her, but not saying anything.

I’m sorry honey..

“Stay with me tonight.” Tiffany demands.

“Are you serious? I can’t stay here with your dad and all..”

“I don’t care.”

**

Tiffany can’t stop giggling as she’s being straddled by Jessica on her bed.

“Are you happy now?” Jessica asked.

“I can’t believe that you climbed the window for me.”

Jessica sighed.

“I would do a lot more for you.”

Tiffany smiled in satisfaction as her girlfriend planted wet kisses on her neck.

Honey, I will do anything for your sake.

Even if it’s something that will hurt us both.

203

Page 204: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 35 – Talk

Jessica slowly climbed down the bed without waking Tiffany up. She put the blanket over Tiffany’s bare skin and gently kissed her forehead.

She quickly put on her clothes. She wants to leave before the rest of the people in the house wake up. Jessica turned the knob slowly and opens the door carefully. After she’s sure that no one is around, she walked out of the room straight to the stairs.

Jessica finally reached the front door without any interference. She sighed in relief as she slowly turned the door knob open.

“Morning.” A female voice said.

Jessica froze. It’s definitely not Tiffany’s voice. It’s also not Yoona’s voice.

“You forgot your coat.” The voice said.

Jessica gulped and turned around.

Veronica is handing her the coat that she wore last night.

Jessica took the coat with her right hand. “Thanks.”

“Can we talk?” Veronica asked.

Jessica stared at her in surprise. She clears her throat.

“O..okay.”

**

Jessica and Veronica sat at Tiffany’s favourite cafe. Jessica feels so uncomfortable. She’s just got caught by Veronica who can’t stop staring at her. Tension fills the air.

Sunny came to serve them.

“May I take your order please?”

Veronica ordered a cup of black coffee.

“Jessica?” Sunny asked.

“A glass of milk please.” Jessica answered with a smile.

Veronica laughed a bit as she heard Jessica’s order.

204

Page 205: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica looked at her, confused.

“Steph loves milk too.” Veronica said.

“I know.” Jessica replied short.

“So..

Jessica waited for her to speak.

“So you’re the one who made my sister switch sides.”

“I would never have thought she’ll be into girls.” She added.

Jessica kept silent.

“Why Stephanie?” she asked.

“With your looks and status, which I heard you’re one of the heiresses of the Jung Corporation, you can get anyone you want.”

Jessica looked at Veronica.

“Because it’s her.”

“Excuse me?” asked Veronica, puzzled.

“Because she’s Tiffany.” Jessica answered short.

Veronica stares at Jessica, studying her expression. She didn’t want to admit it. She can feel that Jessica is sincere.

“You..really love her don’t you?”

Jessica nodded weakly and smiled. “I’ll do anything for her.”

Veronica was speechless. Jessica put down all the walls around her. She knows she’s vulnerable but she didn’t care.

“Do you believe in soulmates?” Jessica asked.

Veronica continues to stares at Jessica.

“That special someone who is made just for you.”

“Someone who completes you.”

“You see, Veronica..

..I am born to love Tiffany.”

Again Veronica is left speechless.

**

205

Page 206: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“So Jessica will leave for America in 2 weeks, am I right?” Albert Jung asked.

Julia Jung nodded slowly.

They are in Albert’s office in Seoul.

“Uh..dad, about that.” She said.

Albert looked at her daughter. She seems like struggling for words to say.

“What is it?”

“I don’t think she’s ready yet.”

Albert stared at her eldest daughter, confused.

“What do you mean?”

Julia bit her lip. She’s trying to find an excuse for Jessica.

“Don’t be ridiculous, she’s more than ready.” said a voice.

They both turned to the direction of the voice; Joanna is standing at the door.

“Yes, Julia. Joanna’s right. You should trust Jessica with this.” Added Albert.

Julia sighed. She stared at her sister.

Joanna.

**

“Tell dad that Jessica isn’t ready yet.” Urge Julia to her sister as they stepped out of the office.

Joanna scoffed. “Why should I lie?”

“Jessica is still too young for the job.”

Joanna shook her head and laugh.

“You’re like the weirdest mother I’ve ever met. You should be proud that your daughter is being promoted and all.”

“She didn’t want to go there yet.” Julia said.

Joanna raised an eyebrow. “And why is that?”

Julia kept silent.

“I’m doing this for your sake, for our family’s sake.”

206

Page 207: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Jessica should leave Korea before it gets too far.” Joanna added.

“She deserves to choose her own life. She deserves to be happy.”

Joanna stared at her sister, shocked.

“You knew..

Joanna paused.

“You knew she’s in love with that girl!”

Julia looked away.

“What kind of mother are you?! Allowing such relationship in our family?!”

Julia stared at Joanna, serious.

“Her happiness is my priority.”

“Hey, your daughter will taint our family image!”

“Just because she’s in love with a girl?” asked Julia.

Joanna shook her head in disbelief.

“You’re crazy.”

**

Jessica is sitting at her desk in the office. She arrived early, so she’s the only one who’s there. She stares at the ceiling, lost in her own thoughts. There are voices echoes in her head.

“Are you going to make Tiffany kill her own father?”

Minho is despicable but she can’t help but replaying his words.

“She is torn between her family and your stupid love!!”

Jessica buries her face in her palm.

Tiffany must be hurting..

Tiffany’s crying image appears in her mind.

“But..I don’t want to break my dad’s heart. I..really don’t know what to do.”

Unconsciously, her eyes are wet. Jessica grabbed a few sheets of tissues and wiped her tears.

She loves Tiffany so much.

207

Page 208: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

She didn’t want to see her in pain.

Minho’s face suddenly appears in her mind again.

“Let her go.”

Jessica bit her lip.

I can’t let her go.

“She lives in regret of her mother’s death...

Minho’s voice echoes in her head.

Tiffany’s crying face came up again.

Jessica closed her eyes and made up her mind.

Tiffany I..don’t want to see you cry.

I’m sorry.

**

Jessica has been acting weird since that morning. She didn’t smile, just like the old Miss Jung they used to know. Everyone wondered why.

Tiffany has been staring at her girlfriend from her desk, hoping that she will look back at her. But she didn’t. Feeling uneasy, she stood up and walked towards Jessica’s desk. Jessica, noticing that Tiffany is coming to her; she quickly stood up and leave the office without even glancing at Tiffany. Tiffany was left standing in the middle of the office, confused. She has a bad feeling about this.

It’s almost lunchtime, and Jessica is nowhere to be seen. Tiffany took her phone and call up her girlfriend. There’s nothing but dial tone. Tiffany almost gave up when suddenly Jessica pick up the phone.

“Jessi, where are you? It’s almost lunchtime, honey.” Tiffany said sweetly.

There’s only silence.

“I’m busy.”

Tiffany was surprised at the short, cold reply from Jessica. She opened her mouth to speak.

“Jessi, I..

208

Page 209: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

But soon she stopped as she realized that Jessica already hung up. She put the phone to her chest, trying to gather her strength not to cry. She’s been crying too much lately.

Maybe she’s just busy..

**

Tiffany walked to her car and suddenly her heart beat faster. She looked around and saw a familiar blonde woman standing near her car. Like impulse, she ran to her.

“Jessi!” she called.

Jessica looked at the cheerful Tiffany, with no expression on her face.

Tiffany quickly wrapped her arms around her girlfriend and hugged her tightly.

“I miss you.” she whispered.

Jessica slowly returned the hug.

“People might see us.” Jessica said.

Tiffany let go of Jessica and held her hand. She stared at Jessica’s face lovingly. It’s only been a few hours since she last saw Jessica, but to her it feels like forever.

“Let’s go somewhere.” Tiffany suggested.

Jessica didn’t say anything.

“Let’s make out.” Tiffany said, smiling naughtily.

Jessica can’t help but chuckled. Horny Tiffany can be very cute sometimes (if not hot).

Tiffany felt relieved as she saw Jessica’s laugh.

“Why are you so cold today, blankie?”

Jessica held both Tiffany’s hands and looked down.

“Tiffany.” She said slowly as she looked up.

Tiffany gulped. The way Jessica says her name seems different. It’s not the usual ‘honey’ or ‘napkin’. Something is not right.

“We need to talk.”

209

Page 210: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 36 – Broken

Tiffany held tight to Jessica’s hand as they walk through the park. There weren’t many people at the park that night.

Suddenly, Jessica loosens her grip on Tiffany’s hand and let go. Tiffany quickly grabs her hand again. Jessica looked at her girlfriend, surprised.

Tiffany smiled. “I don’t want to let you go.”

“I feel like you will leave me if I let go of your hand.” She added.

Jessica looked down, silent.

They reached their usual bench and stopped walking.

Jessica gently patted Tiffany’s hair and she smiled.

Tiffany kept staring at Jessica, she knew something is wrong but she pretend like there isn’t.

“Tiffany,

..you have to let go of my hand.” Jessica said softly.

Tiffany stared at Jessica. She knows exactly what she meant.

Her heart hurts.

“I won’t.”

Jessica sighed.

“You have to.”

Tiffany shook her head vigorously.

“We both know where our relationship is going.” Jessica said.

“You promised.” Tiffany said seriously.

Jessica bit her lip, this is not going to be easy.

“You promised me forever.” Tiffany said calmly.

“I’m..just human.” Jessica replied, slow.

Tiffany scoffed and looked away, but she still held tight to Jessica’s hand.

“Let me go.” Jessica said.

“Make me.”

210

Page 211: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica held her tears.

“You must understand. I don’t want to make you choose.”

Tiffany bit her lip, holding her tears.

“I choose you.”

“Tiffany..you can’t do this to your family.”

Tiffany stared at Jessica, angry.

“Then you can’t do this to me!!”

Jessica didn’t know what to say. Tears start to rolls down her cheeks.

“Jessica, you know you love me.” Tiffany said.

Jessica wiped her tears with her other hand.

“I’m not going to let you go.” Tiffany added.

Jessica feels so weak but she’s determined to make Tiffany let go of her.

“You’re not fit for me.” Jessica said, bitter.

“What?”

“I said you’re not at my level.”

Tiffany stared at Jessica in disbelief.

“How can someone like me be with someone like you? Have you checked yourself Tiffany?”

Jessica stared into Tiffany’s eyes, cold.

“You’re nothing.”

Jessica can’t believe that she just insulted Tiffany. The words just came out by themselves.

Tiffany let go of her grip on Jessica’s hand. The words do hurt her. She can no longer hold back her tears.

“I know what you’re doing, Jessica.” Tiffany said.

Tiffany grabbed Jessica’s shoulders and stared straight into her eyes.

“You’re saying all this because you love me, because you want me to leave.”

Jessica pushed Tiffany lightly so that Tiffany will let go of her shoulders. She looked down, gathering her strength to say her next sentence.

There’s no turning back.

211

Page 212: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I..don’t love you anymore.”

Tiffany was really shocked. She didn’t expect this at all.

“You’re lying..”

“I don’t want you anymore.” Jessica added.

“Stop lying to yourself!!” Tiffany said.

“Let’s just act like we never met. Things were simpler back then.”

“What are you talking about?!”

Tiffany stared at Jessica; tears can’t stop rolling down her cheeks.

“You can’t just come into my life and then walk away!” she shouted.

Jessica closed her eyes, she must stay strong.

“I’m sorry.” She said.

Tiffany shook her head.

“I’m really sorry, Tiffany.”

“You really want me to hate you this bad?!”

Jessica walked towards Tiffany, gently caressing her cheeks. Tiffany stared into Jessica’s teary eyes.

She looks so broken.

Jessica, I know you love me.

Jessica planted one last kiss on Tiffany’s lips.

They broke the kiss and stared into each other eyes.

“I love you.” Tiffany said.

Jessica wiped Tiffany’s tears with her fingers gently.

I love you too.

“I’m sorry.”

**

212

Page 213: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

The next day, Jessica act like nothing happen. She’s getting good at ignoring Tiffany. Tiffany can’t help but shed tears every few minutes.

“Fany, are you okay?” Sooyoung asked, concern.

Sooyoung’s question only made she cries harder.

Yoona gritted her teeth and stared at Jessica. She know this is something related to Jessica. She asked her cousin but Tiffany didn’t say anything. She’s been crying since last night.

Jessica stood up and left the office. She can’t stand the tension in there. Yoona and Sooyoung are staring at her with anger while Tiffany can’t stop crying.

Jessica stopped in front of a vending machine and slumped herself on one of the chair nearby. She buries her face in her palms and trying hard not to cry.

“What did you do to her?” a voice asked.

Jessica looked up to find an angry looking Yoona staring at her.

“Yoona.”

“What did you do to her?” she repeated her question.

Jessica stood up.

“Now we’re back to the way we were.”

“What do you mean?”

“I broke up with her.”

Yoona stared at Jessica’s face in disbelief.

“You what?!”

“What else do you expect me to do?! I can’t let her dump her family to be with me!!”

“So? You’re going to let her marry that bastard, Minho?!”

Jessica bit her lip, speechless.

“You’re letting her go?”

“I thought you really love her.” Yoona said, bitter.

Jessica stared at Yoona, “I really love her.”

“So fight for it!”

“And? You want me to kill your uncle?” Jessica asked back.

This time Yoona is left speechless.

213

Page 214: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I don’t want to hurt Tiffany anymore..” Jessica said, tears rolled down her cheeks.

Yoona looked down.

They both kept silent.

“There’s nothing we can do, Yoona.”

“The wedding is next week.” Jessica added.

“You can’t let her marry him, Jessica!” shouted a voice.

Sooyoung is standing by, with both hands on her waist.

“For the first time, I’m accepting the same sex relationship here. I want you two to marry each other.”

Sooyoung said as she walked towards Jessica and Yoona.

“I already bought a couple gas masks as your wedding present.” Seohyun said as she suddenly appears from the corner.

“So you two must get married.” She added smiling.

Jessica was so touched by her friends support.

“You guys..”

“What are you guys doing here without me?” Yuri asked, confused. She just found them gathering there.

Yoona walked to her and link her arms with Yuri.

“We’re talking about your hair.” She teased as she gently patted Yuri’s hair.

“Eh?”

They all laughed.

Yuri looked at them, puzzled.

“Whatever. Actually I want to meet Jessica.”

Jessica looked at Yuri. “Why?”

Yuri gulped and stared at them.

“Minho is here..

They all stared at Yuri, waiting for her to continue.

..with Tiffany’s resignation letter.”

Jessica gritted her teeth.

214

Page 215: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“That son of a bitch.”

Jessica ran to the office as fast as she can. But she stopped as she saw the scene in front of her.

What the?

Tiffany is crying in Minho’s embrace. He’s holding her tightly.

Minho smiled as he saw Jessica at the door.

“Oh, Miss Jung.”

Tiffany pulled herself away from Minho as she realized that Jessica is there. She’s not sure what to do.

Jessica stared at Tiffany but she avoided her gaze.

Minho held Tiffany’s hand and walked towards Jessica.

“Here’s Tiffany’s resignation letter.” He handed her a white envelope.

Jessica kept staring at Tiffany, ignoring Minho and the letter.

“She’s not coming here anymore, starting tomorrow.” Minho added as he put the letter on one of the desk.

Tiffany finally looked up and met Jessica’s gaze. They didn’t say anything, just staring at each other.

Minho noticed their intense eye contact and frowned.

“Let’s go Tiffany, we have an appointment with the wedding planner.” He said as he dragged Tiffany.

Jessica held Tiffany’s other hand. They both stopped.

Tiffany looked deeply into Jessica’s teary eyes. Her eyes are saying something.

I love you, Tiffany.

“Hurry up, baby.” Urge Minho.

Jessica and Tiffany are still staring at each other, intensely.

“You promised.” Tiffany suddenly said.

Jessica nodded weakly. Tears start to roll down her cheeks again.

“That promise is still valid.” Jessica said.

Annoyed, Minho quickly drags Tiffany out of the office.

Tiffany turned her head as she walked with Minho. She stares at Jessica.

Forever and a day..

215

Page 216: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 37 – Stay

Jessica is standing by the big window in her room. She stared at the dark sky, lost in her own thoughts.

“Hey idiot.” A voice called.

Jessica turned to the familiar annoying voice.

“It’s time for dinner.” Krystal said.

Jessica shook her head. “I’m not hungry.”

Krystal stared at her gloomy sister. Jessica continues to look outside the window.

Krystal sighed. She walked towards her sister.

“You should eat something.” Krystal said as she put a hand on her sister’s shoulder.

“It’s okay.” Jessica replied short.

“I hate seeing you sad...and thin.”

Jessica raised an eyebrow.

“I thought you enjoy seeing me suffer.”

“No. I only enjoy making you suffer.” Krystal replied.

Jessica chuckled.

They both stood there in silence.

“When is the wedding?” Krystal asked.

Jessica can feel the pain in her heart as she mentioned it.

“Next week.”

Krystal sighed.

As much Jessica trying to hold her tears, it rolled down anyway.

Krystal stared at her crying sister. Her heart hurts as well.

She made up her mind.

I must do something.

**

216

Page 217: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany is sitting in Minho’s car. His manager, Hyoyeon is driving. Tiffany looked out of the window as they are on their way to see the hotel that they’ve booked for the wedding ceremony.

“Can you smile a bit? We’re getting married in 4 days.” Minho said.

Tiffany stared at Minho, her eyes filled with hatred.

“I hate you.”

Minho laughed. “I love you too.”

Tiffany glared at him.

Hyoyeon shook her head. She never agrees with Minho plan from the beginning. She feels sorry for Tiffany.

“What’s the point of marrying someone who doesn’t love you?” Tiffany asked.

“You will love me eventually.”

“No. I only love Jessica.”

Minho rolled his eyes.

“She dumped you.”

“She let me go because she really loves me.”

“Oh come on, right now she’s probably having fun with other guys..or girls..”

“Shut up! You know nothing about her!”

Minho was surprised at Tiffany’s sudden outburst.

“She must be hurting right now..”

Jessi..

**

“Mom, are you busy?”

Julia looked up from her book. Jessica is looking at her, looking troubled.

“I’m not busy dear. Come sit with me.” Julia said, smiling warmly.

Jessica sat next to her mother. It feels so comfortable.

Julia stared at her eldest daughter. She’s smiling, but Julia knows that she’s not happy.

“I already talked to your grandpa about sending you to America.” Julia said.

Jessica looked at her mother, curious.

217

Page 218: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“He insists to send you. But don’t worry; I’ll try to persuade him until he agrees.” Julia said, smiling.

Jessica smiled. “Thanks mom.”

“No problem dear.” Her mother said as she gently fixes Jessica’s bangs.

“But mom..

Jessica paused.

..I want to go to America.”

Julia stared at her daughter, surprised.

“Why suddenly you changed your mind?”

Jessica forced a smile.

“I have no reason to stay anymore.”

“What happened between you and Tiffany?” Julia asked, concern.

“I let her go.” Jessica said, holding her tears.

Julia can see the pain her daughter feels through her eyes.

“Oh, Jessica.” She pulled her daughter for a hug.

Jessica can’t help but to cry as her mother hugged her.

“Mom, how am I supposed to live without her?”

Julia gently rubbed Jessica’s back.

“I really love her.” Jessica said, sobbing.

“I just don’t want to hurt her anymore..”

Julia continues to rub her daughter’s back, hoping that it will ease her sadness.

“Mom, am I doing the right thing?”

Julia paused.

**

218

Page 219: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Veronica just hung up the phone with the caterer. She has to take care of a lot of things for the wedding.

She walked passed Tiffany’s room. She stopped as she heard someone crying. The door wasn’t locked. Veronica peeked through the door.

Steph..

Tiffany is crying hard on her bed. She’s sobbing badly.

“Mom..what should I do?” she said slowly.

Veronica stared at her sister from a far, unsure of what to do.

Tiffany wipes her tears with her blanket. She didn’t care anymore.

“Blankie..come back.” She sobbed.

Suddenly a pair of warm hands wrapped around her shoulders. Tiffany was shocked and turned around.

Veronica is looking at her, concern.

Tiffany smiled.

They both stared at each other for a few seconds.

Her sister pulled her for a hug. Tiffany was surprised by the warm gesture but she returned the hug.

Suddenly she feels relieved.

“Thanks.”

“That’s what sisters are for.”

They both chuckled.

“Don’t cry anymore.” Veronica said.

“I can’t. I’m getting married to the biggest b*stard in the world.”

Veronica chuckled. She held Tiffany’s hand.

“Jessica really loves you.”

Tiffany smiled and nodded. “I know.”

Suddenly Veronica ruffles Tiffany’s hair.

“Hey, what’s that’s for?” Tiffany asked, surprised.

Veronica smiled. “Forgive me.”

Tiffany stared at her sister, confused.

219

Page 220: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I’m the worst sister in the world.”

Veronica stared at her sister before gently patted her head.

Let me make it up to you.

**

The office is gloomy since Tiffany left. Jessica rarely present in the office anymore. She usually will arrive late, looking messy with swollen eyes.

“3 days till wedding.” Sooyoung said, sad.

“Are you going unnie?” Seohyun asked.

Sooyoung shook her head, “I don’t know.”

Yuri is hugging Yoona at the corner of the office. Yoona is crying.

“I feel sorry for her.”

Yuri gently rubbed Yoona’s back.

“But I don’t know what to do for her.”

Yoona held tight to Yuri’s body as she continues to cry.

“What is this place? ” a voice said.

They all looked at the direction of the voice. A girl is standing by the door.

“Did someone died? What’s with the tears?” she said as she entered the office.

They continued to stare at the arrogant looking girl.

“If you girls want to save Tiffany from the wedding, you can’t just keep on crying like this.”

The girl sighed. “This 16 year old girl has to do everything.”

“Krystal, what are you doing here?” asked Yoona.

“I have to save my idiot sister’s love life.”

Krystal smiled mischievously, “Are you guys ready to crash a wedding?”

220

Page 221: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 38 – Faith (PG)

Jessica walked back to the office after the meeting with the fashion department. She entered the office and surprised to find her sister there.

“What are you doing here?” she asked.

Krystal sighed.

“Can’t you at least act happy to see me? Like, oh my beautiful sister, Krystal! You’re here to visit your unnie?” Krystal mocked Jessica’s voice.

Jessica rolled her eyes.

“Weirdo.”

“Idiot.”

Jessica stared at her sister. She’s embarrassing her in front of her staffs.

“I’m not an idiot.”

“Yes you are.”

“Let’s not talk about this.”

Krystal suddenly hugged her sister.

“Even though you’re an idiot, you are still my sister. And I love you.”

Jessica chuckled.

“What do you want from me?”

Krystal shook her head. “Nothing.”

“But I will give you something that will make you thank me forever.”

Jessica raised an eyebrow.

“You’re lucky to have such a smart and beautiful baby sister.” Krystal added.

Jessica stared at her, confused.

**

221

Page 222: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

2 days till the wedding.

Veronica sat at the cafe, waiting for someone. She never met the person; they only spoke through the phone.

A girl walked towards her.

“Are you Veronica Hwang?” she asked.

Veronica nodded.

“I’m Krystal Jung, we spoke on the phone.”

“Oh, nice to finally met you Krystal.” Veronica offers her hand for a handshake.

Krystal smiled as they shook hands.

They both sat there, waiting for one of them to speak.

“You look young.” Veronica said.

Krystal smiled, “I’m 16.”

“You are young.”

Krystal laughed and nodded.

“Let’s do this, for our sister.” She said.

Veronica smiled. “Sure.”

“Do you think you can handle ‘it’?” asked Krystal.

“Don’t worry. Consider it done.”

**

Jessica can feel something is not right with her staffs. It’s like they are doing something behind her back. Recently Sooyoung always on the phone, Yoona and Yuri always excuse themselves from the office with modelling job while Seohyun can’t stop smiling every time she looks at her.

Jessica had too much on her mind to even bother about them.

Tomorrow is Tiffany’s wedding.

She bit her lip at the thought.

She’ll be Minho’s wife starting tomorrow.

222

Page 223: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

The thought is torturing her. She even thought of killing herself.

Tiffany, I really miss you.

Tiffany’s voices echoes in her head.

“I’m yours forever.”

That night they spend at the hotel where she gave her promises that she couldn’t keep.

“Tiffany!” suddenly she shouted.

The whole office stared at her. Jessica looks so broken with tears rolling down her cheeks.

Sooyoung came to her and rubbed her back.

“Jessica, calm down.”

“Sooyoung-ah, I want to die!” Jessica shouted.

She started to cry hard to the point of wailing.

Yuri quickly locks their office’s door before it attracts other people.

Yoona held Jessica’s shoulders.

“Sica unnie, get a hold of yourself!”

Jessica falls on her knees and buries her face in her palms.

“I..love..her..” she said, sobbing hard.

Seohyun kneeled down and hugged Jessica.

“You two are destined for each other.” She said slowly.

“Just have faith in your love.” Seohyun added.

Jessica continues to wails.

“True love will win in the end.”

**

Tiffany sat on her bed. She stares at the wedding dress in front of her. As much as she wanted to cry, she couldn’t. She had cried too much. The tears couldn’t come out anymore.

She bit her lip.

Tomorrow is the wedding.

223

Page 224: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica, where are you?

Suddenly there’s a loud noise near the window. Tiffany was shocked.

What is that?

She walked slowly towards the window. It could be something dangerous.

A hand pushed the window open. Tiffany was shaking with fear.

“Who’s there?! I know taekwondo!”

A human figure climbed into the room through the window.

Tiffany couldn’t believe her eyes.

“Jessica?”

Jessica straightens her jacket and fixes her ruffled hair.

“What are you doing here?!” Tiffany asked, still keeping a distance from her.

“You called, so I came.” She answered short.

Tiffany stared at Jessica, touched. She quickly looked away.

“You can’t be here.” She said, serious.

“A lot of my relatives are in the house and it’s inappropriate for you to be in my room right now.”

Jessica didn’t say anything, just staring at Tiffany.

“Jessica, I’m serious.”

Jessica walked towards Tiffany. Tiffany walked backwards, away from Jessica.

“Stay there.” Tiffany ordered.

Jessica ignored her and kept walking towards her. Tiffany continued to move backwards and stumbled on her bed.

“Let me stay here tonight.” Jessica said, serious.

Tiffany stares at her ex-girlfriend, trying to figure her out. Jessica stares at Tiffany who’s lying on the bed.

“You can’t.” Tiffany said.

Jessica bit her lip, trying to control herself.

“I’m getting married tomorrow.” Tiffany said.

Suddenly, Jessica took off her jacket and throws it on the floor.

224

Page 225: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany gulped and stares at Jessica, knowing her intention.

“You..can’t do this.” Tiffany said, shaking her head.

Jessica climbed on the bed and pinned both Tiffany’s hand to the bed.

“Just one night.” She said, softly.

She would never force herself on Tiffany. Tiffany is too fragile in her eyes.

“Jessica..”

Tiffany’s voice triggered the tears that she’s been holding back.

Tiffany stared at the crying Jessica on top of her. Jessica’s tears fell down on her face.

“I’m sorry, honey.” Jessica said slowly.

She loosens her grip on Tiffany’s hands and about to climb down the bed when Tiffany held her arm. Jessica stopped.

Tiffany wrapped her arms around Jessica’s waist.

“Stay with me, blankie.” She whispered slowly.

Jessica froze in Tiffany’s arms. The feeling is too good to be true.

“I’m useless.” Jessica said, her voice shaken.

“I can’t even keep my promise.”

Tiffany gently kissed Jessica’s neck. Jessica trembled at the sensation.

“I still love you anyway.”

Tiffany planted a few more kisses on Jessica’s neck and shoulders. But soon she can no longer control herself and slid her arms under Jessica’s shirt and pulling it upwards, trying to take it off.

Jessica let Tiffany took off her shirt before turning around to face her.

They stared at each other. Jessica can see the sadness in her lover’s eyes.

This is the last night.

Jessica gently caressed Tiffany’s cheeks with her hands.

Please be happy.

“Only you can make me happy.” Suddenly Tiffany said.

Jessica was surprised at Tiffany’s response, as if she was able to read her mind.

Tiffany leaned forward and pressed her lips against Jessica’s. The kiss started innocent but quickly turned wild. Jessica pushed Tiffany down and stares at her.

225

Page 226: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I’m yours forever.” Tiffany said, gently running her hands on Jessica’s bare back.

Jessica smiled as tears fall down from her eyes. Tiffany gently wipes the tears on Jessica’s face with her fingers.

“Jessi, make love to me.”

226

Page 227: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 39 – Dreams

Jessica smiled as she watches Tiffany’s sleeping face.

Are you an angel?

You must be.

She gently caresses Tiffany’s bare shoulders. Suddenly Tiffany moved closer, tightens her arms around Jessica.

“Don’t leave me..blankie..” she mumbled.

Jessica chuckled at Tiffany’s adorable sleeping habit. She slowly kissed the sleeping girl’s forehead.

“My lovely napkin.”

Jessica kept on staring at Tiffany’s face with mixed emotions.

“You are the girl of my dreams.” She said slowly.

The image of her first real meeting with Tiffany replays in her head.

“Oh my god..it’s you.”

“I’m sorry, but do you know me?”

“Tiffany, I’m Jessica. Your soulmate!”

“Woah, wait a minute, how do you know my name?!”

Jessica smiled at the memory. “You even spilled milk on my coat.”

“Maybe dreams do come true.”

Jessica chuckled at the memory of her trying to win Tiffany’s heart.

She leaned closer to Tiffany’s face.

“Did you remember our first kiss, at the ice skating rink?” Jessica whispered to the sleeping girl.

“It was the sweetest kiss.” Jessica added, smiling.

227

Page 228: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I think..I’m in love with you.”

“Finally.”

“Then I made you lost in the snow..”

“I am an idiot.” Jessica said with a sigh.

“Are you...trying to...turn me on?”

“I’m trying to keep you alive!”

“Then why...your hand is...caressing my thigh?”

“I’m...trying to keep you warm.”

“Per..vert.”

“To be honest..

Jessica paused.

..you did turned me on that time.”

Jessica let out a small laugh.

Jessica paused, her face expression changed.

She lovingly caressed Tiffany’s bare back with her hand.

“I can never forget our first night.” She whispered.

“It was so beautiful.”

Jessica closed her eyes, trying not to cry.

Suddenly the image of them together at the hotel appeared in her head.

228

Page 229: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Will you really love me forever?”

“Forever and a day.”

Jessica can no longer hold back her tears. She quickly wiped it with her hands.

Jessica slowly climbed down and stood by the bed. She stares at Tiffany as if it’s the last time she’ll ever see her.

“Forgive this idiot blankie.”

Jessica paused to hold her tears.

“I can’t keep my promise.” She said, slightly sobbing.

She kneeled down by the bed, staring at the sleeping girl.

“You are the only one I love.”

Jessica leaned forward and gently kissed Tiffany’s lips.

Tiffany moved.

“Blankie..” she mumbled.

Jessica wiped the tears that can’t stop rolling down her cheeks.

“Goodbye, napkin.”

**

“Steph, are you up yet?”

Veronica knocked on Tiffany’s door.

There was no answer.

“Hurry up, we have to get you ready.” Veronica continues to knock on the door.

But there was still no answer.

Feeling something is wrong, she opened the door.

Tiffany is sobbing on her bed. Veronica walked slowly towards her sister.

Tiffany looked up and stares at her sister.

“Jessica left me..”

229

Page 230: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Veronica quickly hugged her sister and rubbed her back. She wished she can say a few words to make her feel better, but she can’t.

“She really left me..”

Veronica continues to rubs her sister’s back, hoping that it will ease the pain.

But Tiffany continues to cry harder.

Veronica bit her lip.

“Just hang in there.” Veronica suddenly said.

“If you believe that you and Jessica are destined for each other, you two will still be together in the end.”

Tiffany stopped crying, confused with her sister’s words.

“No matter how long it takes.”

Veronica pulled away from the hug and stares at her sister.

“So don’t stop believing.”

**

“Wow, she looks so beautiful!”

Tiffany is wearing a white wedding dress while being circled by her relatives. There even some of them that she never even met. They’re just here because Tiffany is getting married with a famous model.

Veronica held tight to her sister’s hand, trying to calm her down. Her grip does make Tiffany feel much better. She knows her sister is by her side all the time.

“I never thought you can look this gorgeous.” Yoona said as she walked towards Tiffany.

Tiffany gave a faint smile. Yoona held to Tiffany’s other hand tightly.

Don’t worry, unnie.

“Are Sooyoung and Seohyun here yet?”

Yoona was surprised at the question.

“I..don’t know.” She answered nervously.

Tiffany stares at her cousin, she’s acting weird.

230

Page 231: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Feeling eyes on her, Yoona quickly let go of Tiffany’s hand.

“I have to go, Yuri is looking for me.” Said Yoona as she points at her phone.

Tiffany was left puzzled.

The phone didn’t even ring..

“Congratulations.” a voice said.

Tiffany turned to the direction of the voice and found a girl smiling at her.

The girl suddenly hugged the surprised Tiffany.

Who is she?

Tiffany smiled at the unknown girl. She chuckled.

“You don’t remember me?” she said.

Tiffany shook her head, “Sorry.”

“I’m Taeyeon.”

Tiffany tries to recall the name in her head.

Taeyeon sighed.

“I was your neighbour when you lived in States.”

Tiffany continues to stare at the girl, still no memory of her.

“Aigoo, we were best friends when were 10.” She said.

Tiffany looked at the ceiling.

Taeyeon.

It slowly comes back to her.

“Oh TaeTae!” she shouted.

“You finally remember?” Taeyeon sighed.

“It’s been a long time since we last met!” Tiffany said, excitedly.

“We never met anymore since your family moved.” Taeyeon nodded.

“Gosh, you grew taller!”

Taeyeon rolled her eyes.

“Don’t tease me.”

231

Page 232: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany stares at her childhood friend, touched that she came.

“So you decide to marry a guy in the end.” She said, smiling.

Tiffany was surprised.

“What do you mean?”

Veronica heard it and gulped.

This kid knows?

Taeyeon looked at the sisters who’s staring at her with curious eyes.

“What are you talking about?” asked Veronica.

“Yah, I was only referring to your dreams when you were a kid”

“My dreams?” asked Tiffany, confused.

“Yes, you said that you’ve met your soulmate in your dreams. She’s a girl.”

Tiffany continues to stare at Taeyeon.

Why didn’t I remember anything?

“You even drew her face in a journal, and said that you wanted to marry her. Don’t you remember?”

Taeyeon gulped at the stares.

“I did?” Tiffany asked, her eyes wide.

Veronica gasped.

“What’s wrong with you two?” Taeyeon asked, confused.

“Is there anything else that you remember?” Tiffany asks, her eyes are teary.

“Yeah, her name was..

Taeyeon paused, trying to remember.

“What was her name?” Tiffany asked.

“It starts with J.. something.”

Tiffany and Veronica looked at each other.

“Je..

Taeyeon paused.

“Jessica.” Tiffany said, tears rolled down her cheeks.

232

Page 233: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Yes! Her name was Jessica!” Taeyeon shouted. But then she stopped as Tiffany starts to sob.

Veronica was so shocked.

This can’t be.

“Hey, are you okay?”

Tiffany fell on her knees.

Jessica..

You are my soulmate..

“Tiffany, what’s wrong?”

The relatives started to gather around the crying bride.

“That’s why..” Tiffany said.

Veronica still stunned, shaking her head.

“Wow.”

“That’s why the girl in the picture looks familiar..because I met her in my dreams.” Tiffany said.

“Picture?” Veronica asked, confused.

“Picture in Jessica’s room, a picture when she was a little girl.”

Random relatives are trying to calm Tiffany down.

“Jessica..” Tiffany continues to sob.

Taeyeon stood there, confused.

“What’s wrong with those dreams?”

“Those dreams are real.” Veronica replied.

Taeyeon stared at Veronica, puzzled.

“It’s fate.”

233

Page 234: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 40 – Wedding

“Are you ready?”

Tiffany looked at her father offered his arm. She fakes a smile and slowly links her arm with him.

“Are you okay?” asked Mr.Hwang as he sees the sadness behind her daughter’s smile.

Tiffany turned to look at her father’s concern face.

“I’m fine, dad.” She replied.

Mr. Hwang stared at her daughter with unreadable expression on his face.

Tiffany could hear the piano being played from the hall. It’s her cue.

“Let’s go.” Mr. Hwang said.

Tiffany took a deep breath.

“Let’s go, dad.”

The door slowly opens.

The bride and her father entered the hall in unison.

The guests were awed as Tiffany and her father walked in. Cameras can’t stop flashing with every step they took.

Tiffany looked around her, there were so many reporters that came. She sighed.

Minho smiled from the altar.

Tiffany tried to control her sadness as she walks towards him.

They finally reached the destination. The music stopped.

Tiffany climbed up the steps to the altar slowly, as if she’s about to be sentenced to death.

Maybe it’s better to die than marrying Minho.

Tiffany looked down, suppressing her tears. She must at least act happy on her wedding day in front of her father.

“Shall we begin?” The priest said.

234

Page 235: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

No.

Tiffany wants to shout it out loud.

I don’t want to marry him.

But she can’t.

Is this the end?

“Wait!” a voice shouted.

The whole hall looked at the direction of the voice.

Yoona and Yuri were standing there, pushing a cart with what it looks like a projector on it.

“What is this?” Minho asked pissed.

“Yoona and Yuri?” Tiffany stares at them, confused.

Suddenly Yuri laughs.

“Not without watching some videos of the bride and groom.” She added.

“Let’s begin.” Yoona said.

“Sooyoung, lights off!”

Suddenly the hall turned dark and a white screen appears on the wall.

“What is this?!” Minho shouted.

The guests, including the reporters are giving their attention to the screen.

“Hyo, turned on the lights!” Minho shouted at his manager. But Hyoyeon ignored him.

The video starts.

“Hello everyone! Do you want to know more about our handsome groom, Lee Min Ho?”

A girl’s voice narrated the video.

Tiffany can’t help but feel familiar with the voice.

Krystal?

The guests were amused since they thought the video was part of the program.

“This is him.” The voice said.

235

Page 236: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

A picture of Minho from one of his advertisement shoot appeared on the screen.

“What the?” Minho said, panicked.

Suddenly the whole hall gasped.

“Oh my!” some of the guests shouted.

Pictures of Minho with random girls appeared. Hugging, kissing with bottles of alcohol in his hands. Some of the pictures are considered too much.

Tiffany stared at the screen, shocked.

The priest shook his head.

“These are lies!” Minho shouted.

“Lies?” said Krystal as she suddenly appeared from the door with Seohyun.

“Huh?!”

“What about this?” Krystal said.

Suddenly a video of Minho kissing a girl on bed appeared on the screen.

There was a huge commotion among the guests as the video is played.

The cameras can’t stop flashing as the reporters took the chance to get the hot scoop.

“He’s a jerk!” the crowd shouted.

Minho was left speechless.

“This is ridiculous!” he shouted.

“Sooyoung, lights!”

The lights were turned back on.

There was an awkward silence filling the hall.

Everyone had their eyes on the groom.

Minho is shaking with fear. He has no way out.

“For five years! I’ve always been there for her. Me!” he added as he pointed a finger on himself.

Suddenly he pointed at Krystal.

“Are you all going to listen to this kid?! I don’t even know who she is!”

Krystal stared back at him.

“I’m here to claim PillowFany for my sister, you cheater!” she shouted.

236

Page 237: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“That was before! I love Tiffany! I never cheated on her!”

“You’re lying.” Hyoyeon said.

Minho stared at his manager in disbelief.

“Hyo?”

Hyoyeon stood up and stared back at Minho.

“You cheated on her all the time.”

Tiffany gasped.

“Is that something that you do to someone you love?”

“Don’t listen to her!” Minho said, her voice sounded desperate.

“I worked with him for many years now. I know him too well.”

Minho shook his head vigorously.

“I can even name the girls, if you want.”

Minho continued to stares at Hyoyeon, speechless.

This can’t be happening..

Finding himself in deep trouble, Minho took a few steps backwards towards the left door.

“He’s getting away!” a reporter shouted.

“Damn it!”

Minho turned around and rushed out through the door.

The reporters begin to chase him with their cameras. Minho’s life and career will never going to be the same again.

Tiffany still stood at the altar, confused.

“I guess the wedding is off then.” The priest said.

Tiffany lost in her own thoughts. So many things happened at the same time.

Suddenly she realized the most important thing.

Dad..

She quickly ran down the altar and looked frantically for her father.

“Dad!” she called.

237

Page 238: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany looked through the crowd of guests in her wedding dress.

“Dad!”

Suddenly she saw the man she’s looking for, waving at her.

Tiffany rushed to her father who’s standing by with her sister.

“Are you okay, dad?!” she asked, panicked. She grabs her father’s shoulder and stared at him with teary eyes.

Suddenly Mr. Hwang smiled.

“We really got him good huh?” he said to Veronica.

Veronica smiled and nodded.

Tiffany was shocked.

“Wait! What’s going on here?!” Tiffany asked, shocked.

“I already told dad everything that was going to happen today, so that he won’t be shocked.” Veronica said, casually.

Tiffany stared at her father and sister, still in shock.

“What?!”

Veronica sighed.

“It’s all Krystal’s plan.”

Mr. Hwang rubbed her surprised daughter’s shoulder gently.

Tiffany looked at her father.

“Dad..I thought you want me to marry Minho”

Mr. Hwang let out a small laugh.

“I want you to be happy. It doesn’t matter who that person is.”

“But you were so happy..”

“It was because I thought you were happy.” He replied.

“But then your sister told me about Minho and..Jessica.”

Tiffany stared at her sister, her eyes wide.

“Veronica!”

Veronica shrugs.

238

Page 239: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“It’s okay, Stephanie.” Mr. Hwang said, gently.

“Are you serious?”

“As long as you are happy.”

“I’m sure your mom would want the same thing for you too.”

Tiffany stared at her father, tears rolling down her cheeks.

Dad..

Mr. Hwang pulled her youngest daughter for a hug.

“You’re willing to sacrifice your own happiness for me.” He said.

“I don’t want to lose you, dad.” Tiffany said, sobbing.

Mr. Hwang laughed.

“I’m just an old man.”

Tiffany shook her head. “Not just any old man.”

“You are my one and only dad.”

Mr. Hwang was touched by her daughter words.

“I’m sorry Stephanie.” He said, holding back his tears.

Tiffany kept silent. She knew what her father meant.

“Forgive me.”

“It’s okay dad.” Tiffany replied, slowly.

**

“PillowFany!”

Tiffany smiled as Krystal ran to her. Then she hugged the girl tightly.

“Thank you.” Tiffany said.

“Where did you get those pictures and videos?”

Krystal smiled. “I have a strong support behind me.”

Tiffany looked at little Jung, confused.

239

Page 240: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Your future mother in-law who’s also my mother helped a lot.”

“Your mother??”

Krystal laughed.

“She’s very cool. You’re lucky.”

Tiffany still can’t believe that Jessica’s mom had helped exposing Minho.

“I’m sorry.” Krystal said suddenly.

Tiffany looked at Krystal, puzzled.

“Sorry?”

“I’m sorry that my sister is an idiot.”

Krystal sighed.

“She pulled an Edward on you. And that Minho is no Jacob yo.”

Tiffany can’t help but laughed at Krystal’s Twilight’s reference.

“So that makes me Bella.”

“And I’m Alice.”

Tiffany chuckled. “Yeah..”

Krystal suddenly remembered something, she grabbed Tiffany’s arms.

“Oh yes, you must stop her!”

“Eh?”

“She’s sacrificing herself again! That idiot.”

“What?”

“She’s going to The Volturi.”

Tiffany stared at Krystal, trying to find out what she meant.

Krystal rolled her eyes.

“She’s going to America!”

Tiffany stared at Krystal, her eyes wide.

“When?!”

“Today.”

240

Page 241: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 41 – Journal

“I never thought crashing a wedding can be this fun.” Sooyoung said.

Yuri nodded.

“We should do this again sometimes.” She said.

Seohyun raised an eyebrow. “You’re crazy.”

“We’ll crash your wedding Yuri.” Sooyoung said cheekily.

“Eh?”

“Maybe you’ll be forced to marry some guy but you want to be with Yoona.” Sooyoung added.

“What are you talking about?!” Yoona shouted, her face red.

“You don’t want to marry Yuri?” Sooyoung asked to the blushing Yoona.

Yuri chuckled.

“Yeah, you guys must crash my wedding in the future.”

Sooyoung suddenly realized something and shook her head.

“What’s wrong?” Seohyun asked.

Sooyoung laughed weakly.

“I’m like the huge supporter of this kind of relationship now.”

Seohyun put an arm around her shoulder. “You’re just a really good friend, unnie.”

“I guess.”

“HEY GUYS!”

Tiffany is running towards them, she’s already changed into casual clothes.

“I know you want to thank us for everything that we’ve..

“Sooyoung, where’s your car?”

Sooyoung paused at the sudden question.

“Eh?”

“YOUR CAR!”

241

Page 242: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Sooyoung was a bit startled.

“I..parked it quite far from here because I was late and it’s too expensive to pay for the hotel parking..”

Tiffany seems restless.

“Are you okay?”

“I need a car right now!”

Taeyeon walked passed them with a car key in her hand.

“Taeyeon, wait!”

Taeyeon stopped.

“Oh Tiffany, I’m so sorry for you..

“Where’s your car?”

“My..car..?”

Tiffany nodded vigorously.

“It’s at the hotel’s front door, my girlfrie...I mean my friend is waiting for me.”

“Great! Let’s go!” Tiffany said as she dragged Taeyeon along with her.

“Let’s follow them.” Sooyoung suggested.

**

“It’s good that you own an MPV.” Yuri said, casually.

“Ahaha, yeah.” Taeyeon replied, awkward.

Her car is filled with people.

Not just Tiffany but also Sooyoung, Yuri, Yoona, Seohyun decided to tag along.

“I thought you were single.” Sooyoung said to the girl who’s sitting beside the driver’s seat.

Sunny smiled.

“I never said I was.”

“How long have you two been dating?” Yoona asked, curious.

“2 years.” Taeyeon replied, short.

242

Page 243: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Can you please drive faster!” Tiffany shouted.

They are on their way to the airport, to catch Jessica before she flew away.

Sooyoung shook her head.

“More gay people.”

Seohyun slapped Sooyoung’s arm.

“I need to check the statistics of the numbers of gay people in Korea..they’re like everywhere..”

Sooyoung received glares from the others in the car.

“Er..call me if you need any help with wedding crashing..” she added, gulping.

They finally arrived at the airport after a half an hour drive. The heavy traffic in Seoul surely doesn’t help.

As soon as the car stops, Tiffany rushed out from the car and ran into the airport. Her friends followed not soon after.

International departures

Tiffany read the signboard and ran towards the departure hall.

“Miss, you can’t go in there without a ticket.” An officer stopped her.

Tiffany stopped, slightly panting.

“When is the flight to LA?” she asked.

The officer checked the board.

“2.00 pm. It’s already departed.”

Tiffany checked her watch. It’s already 3.30 pm.

“Are there other flights?”

The officer shook his head.

“That’s the only flight to LA for today.”

Tiffany bowed to thank the officer before turning around.

She can feel her heart is breaking.

Jessica..you left me?

Pieces by pieces it slowly drops onto the cold ground.

243

Page 244: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tears unconsciously rolled down her cheeks. She closed her eyes.

This is too painful for me to take..

She didn’t want to cry anymore. She’s tired of shedding tears. She walked slowly without any direction to go.

You broke your promises.

But I still love you.

You left me.

But I still love you.

You’re an idiot.

But I still love you.

Tiffany suddenly feels the image around her blurred.

She feels dizzy.

Her whole body feels heavy.

Jessica..don’t leave..

Suddenly there’s nothing but darkness around her. She can feel the pain on her shoulder as if she’s fallen on the ground. She’s not sure what happened.

“Fany unnie!”

She thinks she heard Yoona’s voice.

“Fany-ah!”

And that would be Sooyoung.

Idiot blankie..

244

Page 245: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

**

Honey..wake up..

There’s a faint voice.

Napkin..

Jessi?

Tiffany looked around her. There’s nothing but snow.

Where am I?

It’s freezing cold and Tiffany hugged herself to keep warm. She kept on walking through the snow without any clear direction.

“Tiffany, come play with me!” a little girl suddenly appears behind Tiffany.

“Who are you?”

The girl didn’t say anything, just smiling.

Then Tiffany realized.

Why is she’s the same height as me?

She looked at her hands. It’s small. Child size.

What is going on?

“Let’s go, Tiffany!” the girl held Tiffany’s hand and drags her forward.

Tiffany just follows the girl, without knowing where she will take her.

They stopped as they reached a bench.

“Let’s sit.” The girl said.

Tiffany sits on the bench with the girl, still holding hands.

“Would you like some milk?” the girl asked.

Tiffany nodded.

“Here.” She handed a glass of milk that appeared from nowhere.

Tiffany took the glass of milk and drinks it.

245

Page 246: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

The girl chuckled.

Tiffany looked at the girl, puzzled.

She smiled.

“You got milk moustache, right there.”

She leaned forward and wiped it with her small fingers.

Tiffany froze.

“Tiffany, one day when we grow up and meet in reality..

She paused.

..I hope you don’t forget me.”

The girl stared into Tiffany’s eyes.

“We are made for each other.”

Tiffany can feel her heart skips a beat.

“I am born to love you.”

Suddenly there’s a bright light flashing in front of Tiffany’s eyes. She held tight to the girl’s hand.

“She’s awake!”

Tiffany can hear a voice shouted around her.

“Unnie!”

Tiffany slowly opens her eyes, it’s bright.

She’s in the hospital.

Yoona is holding her hand tightly.

“How are you feeling, unnie?” she asked, gently.

“What happened to me?” Tiffany asked, weak.

“You suddenly passed out in the middle of the airport.” Sooyoung replied.

“The doctor said that you were too stressed.” Seohyun added.

Tiffany looked around the room. There’s Taeyeon, Sunny, Sooyoung, Seohyun, Yoona and Yuri. Her hope fell as the person she’s longing for isn’t there.

246

Page 247: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Suddenly the door opened roughly.

Jessica?

Veronica and Mr. Hwang arrived with worry faces.

“Steph!” Mr. Hwang rushed to her daughter.

“I’m okay dad, don’t worry.” Tiffany said, smiling.

Veronica let out a relieved sigh. She walked towards her sister before ruffling her hair.

“You made us worry.”

“I’m sorry.” Tiffany said, guilty.

Veronica sighed. “Just have a nice rest okay.”

**

“Unnie, why are you suddenly looking for the old case?” Yoona asked.

Tiffany is released from the hospital the same day and rushed to her house to look for an old case.

“I need to make sure of something.” Tiffany replied, short.

“Maybe it’s in the storeroom.”

Tiffany moves a few dusty boxes but still couldn’t find the one she’s looking for.

Where is it?

Then she saw it, underneath a big brown box, a pink case with her name written on it.

Tiffany quickly removed the big brown box with all her might, even though it’s heavy. She picked up the pink case and wiped the dusts with her hands.

She took a deep breath and opens the case.

In it there’s a small journal.

Tiffany picks up the pink journal carefully and put in on her lap.

‘My Soulmate’

The words were written by crayons. It was her journal when she was 10.

Tiffany carefully flips the journal open.

247

Page 248: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tears begin to form in her eyes as she read the page.

‘Today I dreamt of her again. We drank milk and play tag.’

Tiffany held her tears as she flipped to another page.

‘She’s the most beautiful girl I’ve ever met.’

She turned to the last page of the journal.

‘I hope to meet you soon.’

‘I love you.’

‘Jessica.’

248

Page 249: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Chapter 42 – Found

“Why didn’t you remember those dreams anymore?” Veronica asked.

Tiffany bit her lip and looked at her sister.

“My mind blocked the memories of the dreams by itself.” Tiffany added.

“I guess that tragic event erase everything else. I can no longer remember my dreams after that.”

“Tragic event?”

“Mom’s accident.”

Silence fell between them.

Veronica looked down. She cleared her throat.

“So where is she right now?”

Tiffany shook her head.

“Even her family didn’t know where she went.”

Veronica put a hand on her younger sister’s shoulder.

“Maybe she didn’t board today’s plane.”

Tiffany gave a faint smile.

“I doubt that. She was determined to leave me.”

“She wants to protect you.”

“She’s an idiot.” Tiffany said, looking down.

“But I can’t stop loving her.”

**

Yoona went to Tiffany’s room, to see if she’s okay after what happened the whole day.

“Unnie, I..”

Yoona paused as she opened the door.

“Unnie?”

249

Page 250: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany’s room is empty.

“Where did she go?”

Tiffany walked along the streets, trying to clear her mind. It’s already dark but she kept on walking.

Jessica, where are you?

Her steps finally stopped as she reached her favourite cafe. She smiled.

“Welcome!” Sunny greets as Tiffany entered the cafe.

“You guys are still open at this time?” she asked.

“We will close in about 2 hours from now, would you like anything?”

Tiffany chuckled.

“Why not.”

Tiffany sat at her regular table. The cafe was quite empty with only a couple of customers including herself.

“May I take your order ma’am?” Sunny asked.

“Come on Sunny, you know what I will order.”

Sunny grinned.

“Milk?”

Tiffany nodded.

“Anything else?”

“Maybe later.”

“Okay.”

Tiffany looked around the cafe. Things have been quite busy for her in the last few months that she rarely goes to the cafe anymore.

She looked to her left, there’s an old man sitting alone, looking out of the window. He seems to be lost in his own thoughts.

250

Page 251: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Tiffany sighed and looked at the table across her. There’s a girl reading a book.

Tiffany can’t see her face clearly because she was wearing glasses with scarf around her neck that’s covering most of her face.

Suddenly Tiffany could feel the change in her heartbeat. It beats faster than usual. She put a hand on her chest, trying to calm herself down.

What is wrong with me? Am I sick?

Tiffany looked up and stares at the girl again.

The girl then unwrapped the scarf around her neck and put it on the table. Tiffany could see her face clearly now. But she can’t believe her eyes.

Tiffany stares at her in disbelief.

Her face pale, as if she’s seeing a ghost.

Is that..

Tiffany quickly stood up and walked towards the table across hers.

You..?

The girl didn’t seem to notice that Tiffany is coming and took a sip from her glass of milk.

Tiffany stood by the table, staring at the girl with teary eyes.

“Excuse me..” She said.

The girl looked up, their eyes met.

“Oh my god..it’s you.” Tiffany said.

The girl stood up. Her blonde hair shines under the lights.

“Where have you been all of my life?” Tiffany asked.

The blonde girl took off her glasses, speechless.

“I finally found you, my soulmate.” Tiffany said, slightly sobbing.

Tears rolled down on their faces.

“You got milk moustache right there.” Tiffany said, pointing at her lips.

The blonde girl chuckled.

“Well, do your job napkin.” She said, wiping her tears.

Tiffany pulled Jessica for a hug. She wrapped her arms around Jessica’s neck tightly.

“You left me.” She said.

251

Page 252: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica wrapped her arms around Tiffany’s waist.

“I don’t want to hurt you..”

Tiffany tightens her arms.

“You really are an idiot.”

Jessica buries her face in the crook of Tiffany’s neck. “I know.”

“But I still love you.”

“I thought you already in America.”

“I lost my passport..”

**

“I want to eat the donut~ The delicious chocolate filled donuts~”

Sooyoung is hopping her way to the donut shop.

“Hi Sooyoung, how are you today?” a male worker greets her as she entered the shop. All the workers had recognize Sooyoung, due to her frequent visit.

Sooyoung smiled.

“I’m feeling as good as a hot choco filled donut!”

The worker laughed.

Sooyoung took a tray to put her donuts. She walked towards the counter.

Her smile grew wider as she neared the donuts.

Then she saw it.

Her eternal love.

Her soulmate.

The choco filled donut.

There’s only one left. Sooyoung hurried to the love of her life.

“I’ll take this.” A girl said.

The girl put the last donut on her tray.

Sooyoung can’t believe what just happened.

252

Page 253: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

She just lost her soulmate to that girl. She stared at her, furious.

The girl froze as she feels eyes on her. She slowly turned around facing Sooyoung.

The girl was scared. Sooyoung was staring at the donut hungrily.

“DD..Do you want this donut?” she said, stuttering.

Sooyoung stared at the girl, surprised.

“You don’t want it?” she asked.

“I think you need it more than me.” The girl said, smiling.

Sooyoung was slightly embarrassed, her face red.

The girl put the donut in Sooyoung’s tray.

“Enjoy it.” She said, smiling.

Sooyoung stared at the donut in her tray, still in shock.

“Wait.” She called.

The girl stopped.

“What’s your name?” Sooyoung asked.

The girl was surprised at Sooyoung’s sudden question. She chuckled.

“I’m Hara.”

Sooyoung stood there after Hara left.

Hara.

“Hey Sooyoung, why are you smiling by yourself?” a worker asked.

“Eh?”

“I didn’t know that hunger can lead to being crazy.” He added.

Sooyoung paused.

I was smiling?

Why?

Hara?

She gulped.

“Oh crap.”

253

Page 254: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

No.

NO!

She use her right hand to slap herself repeatedly.

“Hey, are you really crazy?!” a few workers held Sooyoung hands.

Sooyoung shook her head vigorously.

No way!

I’m straight!

**

Hyoyeon opened the door slowly. The room is dark. She turned on the lights.

A man is lying on the floor. He looks dead but still alive.

“How long are you going to be like this?” she asked.

The man ignored her question and presence.

“Get up Minho. It’s not the end of the world.”

The man stared at Hyoyeon.

“Why did you do that?” he asked.

Hyoyeon looked away.

“It’s for your own sake.”

“My sake?! You caused me to lose everything!”

“You can rebuild your career..

“I don’t care about my career! You made me lose the only girl I love!”

Hyoyeon gritted her teeth.

“She doesn’t love you.”

Minho rolled his eyes.

“There’s someone else who loves you.” Hyo said, her voice slow.

Minho stared at Hyoyeon, confused.

254

Page 255: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“What?”

“If you open your eyes..then maybe you can see what’s in front of you.”

“What do you mean?”

“Never mind.” Hyoyeon left the room as she finished her sentence.

Minho stared at the door, puzzled.

“Hyo?”

**

Yoona and Yuri are waiting for the train. They sat at a bench, away from everybody.

“Say it.” Yoona said.

“Say what?”

“Don’t act stupid.”

Yuri sighed.

“Later.”

“Come on, we’re the only ones here, nobody can hear it but me.”

“I can’t.” Yuri replied, looking down.

Yoona pouted, she stood up and leaves Yuri alone.

Yuri stayed on the bench.

Why is it so hard for me to say it?

“You don’t have to walk me home.” Yoona said as Yuri walked with her to the front door.

Yuri intertwined her hand with Yoona.

“I want to.”

They finally reached the front door.

“Goodnight Yuri.”

Yoona turned to enter her house but Yuri still held her hand.

255

Page 256: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“I’m sorry I can’t say the 3 words for you.” Yuri said, sad.

Yoona stared at her sad friend. “It’s okay.”

Yoona turned around to the door.

Suddenly Yuri pulled her and turned her around to face her.

The next thing Yoona knew, her lips is pressed against Yuri’s.

She was shocked, her eyes wide. She could see that Yuri was closing her eyes, kissing her with emotion.

She slowly closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around Yuri’s neck.

It’s their first ‘conscious’ kiss.

Yuri broke the kiss, their foreheads touching each other.

“There are other ways to say those words.” She said.

Yoona smiled.

“I think I like this way better.”

**

Krystal just returned from school and noticed a familiar white porsche in front of her house. She rushed into the house.

“Mom! Is Hyun Joong oppa here?!” she asked excitedly.

“Yes, he’s upstairs..

Krystal ran up the stairs without letting her mom finish her sentence.

..with his girlfriend.”

Krystal walked to the guest room that Hyun Joong always use everytime he visits.

“Opp..

She paused as she heard noises from the room.

“Oooh oppa, this feels sooo good!” a girl voice said.

“Aaaah..”

256

Page 257: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Krystal gulped.

What is going on in there?

“Seohyun-ah, I want to touch yours too..” Hyun Joong voice heard saying.

Touch yours??

“Oppa..”

“I’ll be gentle..”

Are they..

Krystal’s face had turned pale as she stood there.

“Ooohh..”

Krystal can no longer take it, she screamed.

“AAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!” she ran downstairs as fast as she could.

Jessica saw her sister ran frantically.

“Hey weirdo, what’s wrong?”

Jessica opened the door to Hyun Joong’s room.

She froze at the sight in front of her.

Hyun Joong is touching Seohyun’s hair.

“What are you two doing?”

“Ah, I’m just feeling her hair.” Hyun Joong replied.

“Feeling her hair?” Jessica asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Her hair is so smooth and silky.”

“His hair is soo good too! It’s all thanks to the hair tonic..

Jessica shows a palm at the weird couple, asking them to stop.

“I don’t want to know.”

**

257

Page 258: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

“Nice to meet you, Mrs. Jung.”

Tiffany bowed politely. Jessica smiled.

Julia laughed.

“You can call me mom.” She said, smiling.

Both Tiffany and Jessica stared at Julia in disbelief.

Mom???

“Well, have a seat Tiffany.” She said, ignoring the stunned lovebirds’ reactions.

“Er..yes Mrs. Jung.”

Julia stared at Tiffany.

“I mean..mom.”

Tiffany sat awkwardly on the sofa with Jessica beside her. She wanted to hold Jessica’s hand to reduce her nervous attack but it would be inappropriate in front of Jessica’s parent.

“I’m sorry about my daughter.” She said suddenly.

“She’s pretty weak when it comes to love.”

Jessica stared at her mom.

“Mom!”

Tiffany smiled.

“She’s not that bad.”

Jessica smiles proudly at her girlfriend defence.

Julia laughed.

“You must be really love struck with Jessica. She left you on your wedding day and you are still on her side.”

Tiffany blushed.

“She didn’t left yet.” Krystal said as she walked towards the living room.

“The idiot lost her passport.” She added.

Jessica stared at her sister, annoyed.

“Krystal, stop calling your sister an idiot.”

Krystal sticks her tongue at her sister.

258

Page 259: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Jessica looked away, smiling.

“I wonder where I put it though. I’m sure it was in my bag.”

She paused.

“But when I got to the airport, it’s already gone.”

“It’s here.”

Julia held the passport in her hand.

“Mom, you hid my passport?!”

“It was the only way to stop you from making a big mistake at that time.”

Tiffany was speechless.

“Tiffany, I expect you to be a good daughter-in-law in the future. I’ve done so much for you two.”

“D..Daughter-in-law??” Jessica asked after a few silence seconds.

Julia stared at her, she looks pale.

**

“HAHAHAHA!”

Krystal is laughing at her sister.

“Stop it.”

“You are such a fail heroine.” She said.

“Fail heroine?”

“If this is a drama, and you are the lead actress, I bet the rating is low.”

“What are you talking about?”

“If this is a fanfic, no one wants to read about you.”

Jessica stared at her sister, annoyed.

“You didn’t even fight for your love. It was up to me, mom and your staffs to save your love life.”

“I..was..”

“FAIL.”

259

Page 260: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

Krystal said aloud.

“You’re acting like Edward when you don’t even read the book..”

“Hey kid!” Jessica can’t take it anymore.

A sudden gentle touch on Jessica’s waist calms her down. Tiffany hugged Jessica from behind.

“You’re not a fail heroine to me.” She whispered.

Jessica smiled.

“You’re my Edward, my knight, my..

“I get it! I get it!”

Krystal shouted, her hands shaking.

“Gosh you two are so corny! I can’t take it! Why did I even bother saving you from the wedding?!”

Krystal left the love struck couple, mumbling some intelligible words.

“Are we that corny?” Tiffany asked as she rested her head on Jessica’s shoulder.

Jessica chuckled.

“You think?”

Jessica turned around to face her girlfriend.

“Don’t you ever leave me again, Jessi.” Tiffany said.

Jessica smiled and planted a quick kiss on Tiffany’s lips.

“Let’s move in together.”

Tiffany looked at her girlfriend, she seems serious.

“I want to wake up every morning with you by my side.”

Tiffany looked away, unsure of what to answer.

“I...

The End

260

Page 261: Milk Moustache

©aienbest 2009

261