*****

To the girls of my life Who shaded my complexity with the color pink

Forever This is for you, girls

******

No More Heroes

Jessica Jung Tiffany Hwang

Foreword:

First and foremost, I wanted to thank you for putting yourself together and brandishing a fresh

attempt towards reading my story. Youre free to share the story with your friends, relatives, online pals

or even pets, if youre one of the weird ones. Yet, be warned: you have no right to claim its your work.

But that applies only when you start selling them along the sidewalk or eBay. If your face is that thick,

your conscience will judge your immaturity for me. Or if youre one of the stupid ones, you can tell me

you owned me and I will deal with you personally. :3

Secondly, English is not my first language. Im a pureblooded Filipino thus grammatical errors

can be noticed as you moved along reading this fiction. And to the fact that Im not that confident with

my grammar skills, you can bear with me [anxious smiley here]. But I tried my best to correct the

irregularities and errors so, no sweat.

Thirdly and might be the last, graphics included here are my own works (as if its something

amazing) so there.

Oh, and finally, dont forget to leave a comment. Loved goads. Just drop by my profile comment

box and there

Thanks.

Jill aka allbliss

Prologue

"This is Miyoung."

A girl in pink cardigan stood immobile by a withered, undistinguishable tree that appeared as if creepy

hands planted on the damp, winter soil. With the tree, she was rooted in the middlemost part of an

isolated meadow that was dreaded by the season, brought down by time. A vast emptiness filled her

atmosphere as she stared at the gray clouds, not a ray of sunshine spotlighting anywhere her sight laid.

Then her legs trembled, her lips quivered, and her eyes sparkled, signs of defeat against the reigning

emotion.

"When starlight falls, Jess. You will guide me, right?"

But there's no one to respond. The only resonance were the crackles of the nudging branches from the

nearby forest, together with her own low breaths and suppressed emotions expressed through nasal

sounds and croaking hiccups. There was only grief.

"I'm alone and scared, Jess."

Her thighs gave up: she fell to her knees, arms on the ground as she winced through an invisible cause, a

torture within. The wind whooshed above her, sending the hair on her back up. But she was numb. The

something she bears had acted as an anesthetic, and the image of the burden reflected from her frayed

body and soul. The bleeding heart throbbed faster in its ribcage, as if breaking free from the agony, from

the anguish of not having someone to comfort her.

"You know how much I love you, so why left?"

She had become desperate. As her hands curled into fists, she raised her head up and stared at the sky.

On one glorious moment that in spite of the bitter winds lashing her with grief and numbness, a feeling

of something guiding her, slowly, consumed her pain, a short freedom.

The cold breeze halted abruptly. The gray clouds stopped drifting. The time has stopped.

The answer on the last inquisition was responded by a warm zephyr, and it was as if a pair of warm

hands caressing her cheeks and somewhat drying her tears though it continued to fall.

"Are you in heaven now, Jess?"

Then it started to drizzle. Thin raindrops splattered her face with wetness, and it drowned the tears, a

thin mask to the real emotion that had her whimpering.

"You'll be with me, right? When there're no more heroes?"

Tiffany Hwang. Twenty-two years old. Gorgeous eyes, rosy lips. Not that tall, but an average Korean

devoured by what appeared consuming her from the inside. She had cried fifty times for Jessica, the one

she loves who died two weeks ago.

Chapter One: Interlude

I waded passed the troubled waters, not knowing how I got there. But I just went on, walking upon the

mist regardless of the unknown peril that might swallow me out of blue, and continued pacing in spite of

the blurred destination I have, to be honest. Then all of a sudden, a beam of light shone over me, and I

knew that it was heaven, Miyoung. Coz youre there

Crisp wind from Siberia swept across the greater of Kangwondo Province just right after the autumnal equinox, signalizing the start of the bitterest part of the year. The long pane of trees

turned gold, and pieces of its leaves that fell off, teemed over the road, creating a small swirl every time

a vehicle came passing. The natural mixture of yellow and red in the landscape, and additional caressing

zephyrs wrapped with autumn fragrance, had been the reasons why Tiffany had always wanted to get

on to her bike and wander pointlessly anywhere the pedals would take her.

Her hair was swayed by the wind, dancing and waltzing with the comforting breathes of the Earth.

Woodsy smell reached her nose, and her stomach gave a tiny crunch when she abruptly remembered

the potato pancakes Jessica promised once she arrived at her destination, their sacred sanctuary.

After passing a trail of maples, the dried leaves twirled in midair as she ventured along the paved road;

she found herself running across a path beside a lush, golden soybean field ready for harvest. The village

elders great wrinkled faces, as they reap their precious crops, showed content, an absolute quench, and

it was vivid that the simplicity they have is more than enough of a purpose to stay alive and to linger in

this earthly haven. It amazed her, and she couldnt keep the joyousness, so she mustered a radiant smile

and she thought it wasnt enough of a reaction in respond to such spectacle.

Then after she went that through, she gazed at the orange velvet cloaking her. She bathed under a

shower of golden majesty brought by the ray of sun, the source of warm comfort despite the chill fused

with autumn breeze. In this spectacular weather, she was more than glad she will going to share it with

Jessica, who, for sure, wasnt still there at their secret place. She was always late, and Tiffany found it

lousy, a defect to what seemed to be Jessicas perfection

They had known each other for almost the rest of their lives. Jessica lived some few miles away from her,

almost a driving distance. The apartness of their home wasnt actually a hindrance but instead, there

was an imperceptible bridge between them, which allows the two souls to be with each other all the

time, wherever, whenever and however they want. A gift bestowed by love they shared, times they

spent and moments of grief they boldly faced.

Furthermore, they both attend the same school, and of the same year level. Theyre bound to graduate

this June, but they might not make it since their records were dangling above the flames due to the

absences and missed exams. An inevitable habit that had long since theyve started doing.

Tiffany reached the end of the road, by the edge of the forest. She pulled over by a low steep, her bike

tire scratching. After she found a spot to park, she hastily swung the straps of her bag around her

shoulder and darted recklessly into the forest, wind slapped her face and fallen leaves showered above

her head.

The ground crunched under her feet as she tottered through the entangling roots that seemed

embedded on the forest soil; and she jostled through the thicket, small twigs clawing her jacket as she

tore towards the mouth of a lake. The same glee every time she felt the soft, damp ground by the lakes

shore, made its appearance again in her visage, and as she scanned the trees that cloistered this wonder,

she knew shes home.

You lousy snail, someone called from somewhere. To her almost wild astonishment, she found a

brown-haired girl sporting a deep purple sleeve and a look of annoyance. In spite of the cold features in

the girls visage, she appeared charismatic, as she stood next to the lake, looking aggravated on purpose.

Jessicas feet tapped the earth. Tiffany consoled herself by putting up a smile for Jessica to empathize.

Luckily, the bond between them is more than being friends, and lateness wasnt enough to shatter even

a teensy portion of it.

Sorry, Ive stopped by to help the elders harvesting carrots, said Tiffany, making up a lousy excuse

while putting down her bagpack upon the leaf-teemed ground by the nearest tree and letting off a sigh

in an opaque wisp of fume.

Youre lying, said Jessica skeptically, her eyebrows raised frigidly. But a simple ribbing always work

through this kind of situation, and Tiffany was best at it.

You should dye your hair blonde, she said lovingly, as she glided to Jessica, skipping her every step.

But you insisted it should stay brown, she responded matter-of-factly, catching Tiffany off guard.

Well, said Tiffany, cornered, I was amazed that you came first. Perhaps changing the subject is a

perfect salvage before she became roasted by Jessicas tantalizing stare that seriously burns.

Jessica turned around, and Tiffany grabbed her left arm and rested her head on Jessicas shoulder while

they both climbed toward the infamous cliff that used to be a popular diving spot. The lakes water

glimmered as it reflected the suns radiance.

And everything had become peaceful.

The perfect pale lines of the mountains that surrounded them looked as if theyre talking and smiling

upon them.

Theres only peace.

Unaware of the test they will have to deal in the future.

Theres only serenity.

With them

That is why they chose this place, other than the privacy and its closeness to nature, which they

considered a blend of sweet fruits for them to drink at leisure. Its history was a weird one. There were

ghost stories about an underwater monster pulling divers deeper to the abyss, and eerie cries

resonating at night. Jessica merely laughed it, finding the legends ludicrous. In fact, it had just been a

nice prop every time she had a desire to scare Tiffany just for the fun of it.

The place was first discovered by Tiffany, as shes the one who loves travelling. Basically, Jessica was

always the lazy one. This spectacular hermit delimited with maples and ash that seemed whispering,

was an accidental discovery, a product of their more than occasional cutting of classes. While in search

of a hiding place, where they can shout their secrets without having anyone finding it out, their feet

took them to this place, as if it was destined. Since then, this had been the bare witness of their

flourishing, of moments where they laughed and of feelings unraveled as time went on.

Tiffany plummeted down the hard surface, sitting in an Indian position, while Jessica remained erected.

Tiffany glanced up and saw her sporting an expression as if shes touched by Gods as the light glowed

upon her face.

It was a moment of placidity despite the hardships she faced in home. If Tiffany had lived with nice

parents, who relentlessly poured her with love, a total bipolar comparison of that, is the one Jessica has.

She was neglected, never trusted and, the one thing that always breaks her heart, she was ignored. But

the love she sought was quenched with having someone like Tiffany in her life. She really didnt mind

the negligence. Jessica was a strong girl. If maybe not in the inside, she got the guts to convince herself

that she can do anything, a fact that separates her from Tiffany, who was always shy and somewhat

ethereal.

Youre going to burn your face, said Tiffany merely, staring at Jessica with eyes blinking through the

unwavering luminosity. Jessica let out a deep breath, undressed her jacket and, without a trace of

hesitation; she strode towards the edge of the cliff and leapt into the lake. Taken aback, Tiffany

scrambled to her feet as she watched Jessica, diving her way down, ending the show with a graceful

splash. Thin droplets by the aftermath of Jessicas feat hit Tiffany, and those tiny droplets felt like stabs

of small icicles.

Jessica remained submerged in the water in the next minute. Tiffany continued peering chest down and

head squinting over the edge, worried more than ever. Jess! JESS! she yelled at the top of her lungs,

and Jessica came out of the water, her face drenched but full of wonder as if she just discovered the

meaning of life and had achieved cosmic consciousness. Tiffany merely looked incredulous. Are you

CRAZY? Its freezing, for Christs sake! She had seen Jessica jumping in the water before, but definitely

not in this temperature.

It was answered only by a laugh. Jessica started doing backstrokes as though comfortable despite the

temperature thats probably almost zero degree. Tiffany remained scratching her head, contemplating

Jessicas weirdness but as she watched Jessica swam finely across the surface; she just swung herself

around and glared at the afternoon sky.

Woah, its cold, shrilled Jessica as she breaststroked farther and farther. The birds started tweeting

and it sounded as if she was cheering for her. But this made everything looked as if they were goading

Jessica away from her, and Tiffany didnt like that.

How do I get down there? Tiffany asked worriedly, standing up after seeming to have made a decision

albeit the thought was crazy. She stared down to her correspondent, with brows met and eyes

narrowed.

Jessica halted wind milling her arms and yelled back, Youve got to be one with the water.

Tiffany thought it was stupidly nonsense. What are you talking about? Her voice reverberated

somewhat eerily.

A grin twitched on Jessicas mouth as she floated across the lake, still wearing the same ethereal

expression she had back at the cliff. Youve got to feel the water touching your body... force yourself

that youre a creature that lives underneath remove the word cold in your head and simply let the

liquid swallow you.

As she said those, Tiffany could actually feel what Jessica want her to do, a magic of the bond between

their hearts. She took a step by the overlooking steep but the height made her heart race and Jessica

noticed it with an appraising stare.

Close your eyes and let the light caress your face, said Jessica in an encouraging sort, flapping her

arms around her. Youre about to fly with me.

Those words blew the anxiety away. What could be more awesome than flying into the water where

your love awaits?

Tiffany obeyed, and she raised her head, allowing the ray of sun to caress her face. That particular

minute was heavenly, and the glorious glow inside her body seemed to emanate in every inch of her

skin, a sign of an epic wonderfulness. Then she stepped closer toward the edge, shut her eyes as Jessica

instructed her, and without the full awareness that shed already made up her mind of jumping, she

already did. She could feel the wind upward, despite the matter of seconds in midair, tearing to her face

and it was as if shed flown. And the moment her body touched the water with a large splash, shed

gone through a new world. With Jessica.

Wow! she blurted out, the time when her head came out of the water. She started flapping her arms

and squint around for Jessica.

However, the coldness of the temperature appeared as if twisting her muscles, immobilizing her

underneath. Her feet stopped fluttering as if had frozen, and her head started sinking. Je-ss! Bubbles

went out of her mouth as she went down deeper into the abyss slowly.

Just before it happened, an arm clung around her elbow and she was being dragged back to the surface.

Her consciousness flew off for a moment, as Jessica pulled her back to the shore, apparently horrified

instead of amused.

Tiffany spurted out water, and quickly gasped for air as Jessica rounded up courage to fight the fervent

fear creeping in her veins. Im sorry, Miyoung. Never again!

Tight, comforting arms were wrapped around Tiffanys chest, and all she can do was to smile back to

respond on its almost motherly caress. She cant survive without Jessica, shes the knight and shes the

pawn. Tiffany rather wanted to stay at the back, as Jessica fights. It was proved through the years

theyve shared. That she would always be there, to stand against anyone who will oppose, anything that

will obstruct, anyhow that will keep them separated from each other, even death. Jessica had promised

that she would fight for Tiffany, a pact forged under the spell of love, strengthened with affection to

each other. No matter what even if therere no more heroes.

Tiffanys heart throbbed against her chest, but shed regained almost the rest of her consciousness and

she started replying finely. Teeth chattering, Jessica lovingly wrapped her casuals around Tiffany, and

even pressed her chest against Tiffanys body to provide more warmth. It was a scene more spectacular

than her dive. Shivering slightly, Tiffany gazed up to Jessica as they both sat down by a nearby tree. This

is the first time she saw Jessica be afraid of something and it was rather entertaining. Scared-d?

An incredulous look spread across Jessicas face, Are you kidding? What if Im not there and you

drowned? What if I died and left you alone?

Those words stabbed Tiffany straight in the chest, and she shuddered through the horrific possibilities

Jessica had just mentioned. Yet she wondered what if Jessica was not there? She mightve drowned by

now or perhaps she may not be here at this moment. Many scenes played repeatedly inside her head,

and those flashes of what-would-it-be-ifs moments, every single one of it, made her eyes brimming with

emotion.

As Jessica stood up to fetch their belongings that were left at the cliff, Tiffany quickly took a lunge and

embraced Jessicas legs, as if beseeching her to dont go anywhere. Jessica noticed it, and stood at her

tracks, rooted. She could feel Tiffanys shudders nudging her leg, and her sight fell down.

Dont say things like that, J-Jess, hiccupped Tiffany unabashedly. Her body trembled with both

coldness and of the exaggeration from Jessicas last statement. Youll never leave me, right?

A smile curved on Jessicas thin lips, and she put Tiffanys arms away then gazed at her directly in the

eye. I wont leave you. When starlight falls, and when therere no more heroes, Ill stay beside you.

The twinkle on her eyes is like an assurance enough to make Tiffany smile comfortably, and as she did,

Jessica ruffled her hair and pinched her cheeks. Promise me that you wont leave by my side, Tiffany

asked as though a five-year old kid seeking guarantee.

Jessica bent down, and raised her right arm, I wont leave my Miyoung unprotected. If I would be gone,

let the stars fall down to make her smile; if I would be gone let there be no classes anymore!

And they both laughed to their stomachs. But amidst of it, Jessica suddenly thought: What if shes gone?

Chapter Two: Broken

Jess, you just kissed me. Does that mean were sealed forever?

It was a hermit of dancing lights caused by flying china and plastic plates across the room. It was also dinnertime, which was considered family time, but as of the moment, Jessica quivered at the

corner, behind their sofa, trembling with fear that any moment, blood will spurt over her and cries will

reverberate to join the pandemonium inside their cozy house. Suppressed sobs and snarls of rage, it

echoed every corner, bounced up and down, left and right, in and out of her ear.

You cant keep doing this, a womans voice pleaded Jessica recognized as her mothers.

Who the hell are you? A deep growl from the devil, she was absolutely sure it was from his stepfather.

In the middle of this racket, she placed her palm to cover her ear, but the more she evaded, the keener

the fiery discussion darted deeper and deeper to her skull. Then she imagined Tiffany, sitting next to her

and they were both grinning. At that precise moment, her eyes began to sparkle, and the courage she

showed moments ago by saving Tiffanys life, suddenly, had amalgamated with a more feminine and

vulnerable side of her. Yet, she kept her sanity intact but at the same time in her mind, she begged for

Tiffany, for someone who could hug her and take her away from this forsaken place. Anyone please.

Tiffany smiled next to her, and they both parked themselves over the Bermuda grass carpeting the

meadow in the surreal place Jessica dreamed up. She could hear the clutters of shattering plates and

yelling getting fainter and fainter until it was gone and was replaced by Tiffanys playful humming and

mild winds whooshing above their heads.

Miyoung-ah, she murmured, and Tiffany stared up, her expression as if annoyed by the disruption.

Theyre stitching hankies, and there were birds tweeting peacefully, light glowing majestically and wind

whispering as if asking for a dance.

What? Tiffanys voice echoed as if theyre miles away from each other. Yet just by her mystical timber

makes it sufficient to calm Jessica, and she wouldnt be gratified enough.

Miyoung-ah, Jessica repeated, biting her lip as she resumed stitching a lily over the pattern shed been

working with.

Hm? Tiffany mumbled, focused on whats shes doing.

Is this a dream? Jessica asked, looking around. Everything that surrounded them shone and the pale

pink sky shimmered with solar winds. The bright yellow light that illuminated this heaven came from

something up in the sky that was neither reachable nor seemed to exist. The dreamy trees produced

rustling sound as they tapped each other as if greeting to one another. And the grass, the soft grass to

which they lay at the moment, appeared cushions and Jessica thought they were in some big, overlaying

bed.

What if this is all a dream? said Tiffany brightly, in a voice that was never hers. The question registered

to Jessicas brain, and she let out a sigh.

Then let me stay here forever, said Jessica, equally jovial. Yet at that moment, a loud shattering noise

clang beside her, and she was fell back to reality, back to the sofa, back to the messy living room, back to

the battlefield in a war that she had nothing to do with.

Her sight wander across, and saw their house trembling: the fight had gone upstairs. The aftermath of

the never-ending quarrel between her parents was almost the destruction of their kitchen. The large,

family table, that moments ago had some kimchi pancakes, spicy fish stew and pickled radish placed

lovingly, now nothing but splinters of wood where shards of broken plates scattered among with it. The

fridge was toppled down, and the counters where wrecked as if beaten down to demolition.

After gathering the strength she had, she erected from her silent din and unsaid prayers. Then took a

stride toward the stairs but only after pacing a few steps, she fell to her knees as piercing pain erupted

under her feet: blood blossomed freely across the deep cut caused by the shattered china that landed

beside her minutes ago. Burning with pain, she squirmed for a few moments until a notion slapped the

sense out of her: I am a strong girl, and I have to keep the same image even if Tiffany wasnt around.

But the problem is, shes not as strong as Tiffany had known of her.

She was never strong when Tiffanys not in her midst. She was Jessicas source of power, the only person

she can brag her faux strength with; the only person in the world who appreciated her, from the littlest

to the most astonishing thing shed ever do. Real or mere show offs. Yet and yet Tiffany wasnt

around, and the reverie that merged in her mind moments ago was nothing now but faded fragments of

a happy dream. She finds herself barred in a hellish cloister of grief and of anger.

The first floors ceiling shook, and she could hear someone choking and another one growling. How

could her stepfather become like this? What does her mother did to make him frenzied with this

destructive rage? Why had a person who always cared for Jessica become such a brutal beast?

She crouched up a bit and reached for the dangling piece of rag by the lopsided petite chandelier, and

she hastily wrapped it around the wound to block the flow of blood. She started to feel nuisance. Is it

caused by the lost of this much blood or is it through watching a pool of red in front her? The notion was

nonsense. She had to get up. To prove once and for all her capability, even not in front of Tiffanys eyes.

Despite the clumsy strap she did to cover the bloody slit under her feet, she grabbed the edge of the

sofa and pulled her body up. She could feel the blood streaming from her wound, but right now, she had

to climb upstairs to prevent herself from claws of her devilish stepfather.

Dragging her feet, she blundered toward the banister, wincing through the agony and shoulders

slumping lethargically. As she got herself a breathing space while resting her arms at the magnificent

oak baluster, the stairs trembled. Stricken cries reverberated somewhere on the second floor, but her

heart raced when she saw her stepfathers fiery actuality ambling down the stairs. Little bloodstains

blotted his shirt, and the monster-like mustached face was contorted with unimaginable rage behind the

thin layers of sweat.

Jessicas eyes widened, and she knew she couldnt run. As the devil walked closer and closer, that she

could hear his deep breaths, she closed her eyes together with an expectation to be clawed by his brute

hands. But a wind that passed her face, swinging her bangs, spoke to her, telling her that shes in no

danger. That the disaster had ceased.

Starting from her right eye, she slowly opened both and she saw total isolation. Together with a sigh of

relief, she wiped the brittles of sweat from her forehead, and lurched toward her room, thanking God

that she only received a cut instead of bruises in the face.

The first thing she did, as her rooms door swung agape, was to throw her lethargic body onto bed. Lying

spread-eagled, she thought that tomorrow would be a general cleaning day, that her parents would

made up as if nothing happened. An annoying circle, a continuous cycle that seemed to have no end

until eternity. It was always like that, and it was proved no matter how brutal the scene is, they always

got along the next day. However, Jessica was sick of it.

Her eyes rested at the ceiling as her mind swirled with thoughts about tomorrow. The reunification with

Tiffany made her more than eager to go to bed and as a complimentary, the promise of pink radiance of

dusk and pale outline of the moon in the morning.

While rounding everything together, without having the full cognizance that shes about to fall asleep,

her trance lured her to a deep trench, into the dreamworld.

She was gazing sideways to Tiffany, as Tiffany stared back. They lay placidly back in the surreal meadow,

to the heaven she put up moments ago. Tiffanys face glowed by the same, warm luminosity, and her

eyes sparkled as it reflected the unwavering light coming from above. Comfort run through Jessicas

veins as the eternal warmness wrapped every inch of her skin. And as she slowly faced the sky, her eyes

winked: even the clouds were shimmering behind the aurora.

In this wonder, the hunger for affection that was never given to her was sufficed. And the tinkling laugh

that suddenly reverberated had pulled her closer to that haven of delight, of mirth and of whimsical

phantasm.

Why do I keep coming back to this place? Jessica asked though the inquisition sounded negative, she

felt jocund by her actuality in this dreamland.

Because you want to, Tiffany answered, smiling serenely, and Jessica snapped her eyes back to her. I

mean, dont you want to be here? Tiffany appended, her eyes curved in chinks.

Jessica chuckled, and she let off a sigh. Her toes writhed and there was no agony. Only warm,

comforting reign had taken over her soul, and pain turned devoid. Miyoung-ah. She never gets weary

saying that name, and even if Tiffany finds it annoying, she just does what she want.

Why do you keep saying my name? It started to fill each moment with questions, and Jessica cleverly

avoided it by answering truthfully this time.

Because I love you. It was followed with the sincerest look she could ever fledge. Affection burned her

insides with passion and she thought theres a fire in front of her, a different kind of fire. A soft skin

touched her palm, and they were both holding each others hand, a forever seal. As the light drowned

them with unending warmth and as they held each other, the surreal world appeared real. The smile

they both sported, addressed to one another, is a sign of contentment, and in this world Jessica had

built for them, they could do it forever, no more tears, no more rage just them, by the fire of love.

But suddenly, her eyes quivered. Her body shook, and Tiffanys image, together with the imaginary

world, shattered as if glassworks. She was back in the twilight-consumed room, and her arms were

knotted at the headboard of her bed, V-position. Heaves of deep breaths, of hunger, clang somewhere,

and she looked around as she fought to break free.

You sleep pretty deep. Dont worry, I would go easy on you, said a growling voice. She squinted down,

and even before she screamed, a ball of handkerchief was stuffed in her mouth by her stepfather.

What are you doing? She yelled but stifled sound came out of her mouth. Her stepfather started to

undress her, as she writhed around helplessly. Tears trickled on her cheeks, and as the devil gave a

suppressed maniacal laugh, and she knew: this it. Theres no one around her, even Tiffany. She had left

her left her to be broken.

************************

Some miles away from her, a loud gasp echoed across Tiffanys room. She flung her body up from her

four-poster bed, and let out a noise coming from fear burning against the walls of her body. Tears

glimmered in her eyes, and her sleeping gown was drowned with sweat.

Something happened to Jessica.

Then she cried as she never cried before. She took a glance over the clock, which showed both arms

pass two; and she had become desperate. Her moans got louder that the door slammed open, and her

parents strode in. They found her knelt down, groaning from the agony that described as though a stab

of white-hot wires sinking deeper to her chest.

What happened? Mr. Hwang asked, aghast. Tiffany continued murmuring Jessicas name, and

resumed swinging her head around as if it was happening somewhere near.

Jessica, father, Jessica, she moaned, and she weakly pulled her body up but fell down due to the

horrification that was torturing her at the moment.

Its a nightmare.

It wasnt a nightmare, Tiffany thought. They will never understand. Mrs. Hwang glided towards the

switch and turned the lights on.

It isnt a dream, father. Jessica, shes in trouble, said Tiffany hopelessly, grabbing her fathers arm, and

dragging him, wanting him to see what she saw. But it was a special sign between her and Jessica and it

was imperceptible to anyone but them. This painful truth had slapped the sense on Tiffanys face. With a

loud thud as her arm slid out from Mr. Hwangs arms, she fell back on the floor, devastated by an

unseen prospect that was never a dream. She knew. She knew its true.

Go to sleep, dear. Youre only dreaming, said Mrs. Hwang amidst of repressed cries and confusion

held back. She swung an elbow around Tiffanys arms and supported her toward her bed. But Tiffany

knew that somewhere Jessica was in desperate struggle and it kept Tiffany awake all through the night.

Chapter Three: Protection Jess, can you fly after this? asked Tiffany while they both sat by the cliff, staring at the large streak of

azure across the morning sky as Jessica rested her head over her shoulder. Jessica let out a weak laugh

and answered the question in a tone of lethargy and of great inanition, The first time we met,

remember that day when I bully you coz youre so dumb (Tiffany chuckled abashedly)? I had already

flown into the sky. Every moment we shared, Im flying.

Tiffany eyed her bowl of rice with a flyspeck enthusiasm. Mrs. Hwang gazed at her worriedly while her husband just pored over the newspaper though apparently concerned about the issue the

other night; he seemed compelled in some way.

Dark shadows lined under Tiffanys puffy eyes, and her hair was washed minimally for shes afraid that

the fire inside her chest would be splashed down to void. It was her source of happiness, but today, she

just cant feel it: not a teensy bit of warmth, not a tiny speckle of passion. Literally, shes dead. And she

just doesnt know why and how but for sure, it was because of Jessica.

Those forsaken images she saw last night were as fresh as the morning dew that lingered over the

leafless trees as she sauntered to her bike for school. The wind was mild but at the same time,

expressionless. The surrounding, as she stared around, felt so cold, alone lifeless.

What happened to you, Jess? she asked in her head as she slip her bags strap around her arms and

stepped onto the pedal. Biting her lip in a flummoxed way, she drove her way out of their yard into the

road.

As she stared at the vertical, adobe thoroughfare that appeared to be endless, her mind wandered

somewhere, followed by the horrifying scenes she witnessed. Something happened to Jessica, and

somewhat, she needs Tiffanys help. But the snag is, she didnt come. Therefore, it added to one of the

things, along with cutting classes for fun, she despised.

The soybeans were already harvested, and as she reached the end of the road, she thought Jessica

might be at the lake, waiting for her. Completely sure from this, she took a swerve to a different route

and instead of heading to school; she decided to visit their secret place. Yet as she arrived there,

unusually bitter winds tore as she strode deeper into the forest and closer into their sanctuary. Catching

breathes and compelling not to cry, she emerged from the forest to the mouth of the lake.

However, there was only plain void. Across the lake, there were only waters. In the middlemost of the

golden autumn trees, there were only dragged-by-the-wind leaves. Then on the contrary from where

she stood was only her, Tiffany. Forlorn and isolated.

Determined, she kept her hopes up. Jessica just might be late as she usually is, and would head here

instinctively for sure. Breathing deeply, Tiffany sat down upon the pile of dried leaves by the edge of the

forest. As she stared around the place, she realized the sadness around. Pain blown by the wind

intensified the bitterness while it glides across the atmosphere, leaving a vivid sign of loneliness,

whooshing with carried angst.

Cmon, Jess, where are you? She thought through gritted teeth caused by the impatience that frustrated

her. Her legs shook anxiously. Still, after half an hour of impetuous waiting, Jessica did not turn up.

************************

Tiffany arrived at the school in sure prospective of a woman that would fling her arms around her. But

as she stepped over the doorstep of the classroom, no one lunged. Gradually, she gazed at the students

of Hojae Shin Girls Highschool, bored and alienated: it was a world totally different than hers and

Jessicas: in each corners, there were squealing girls over their phone, exchanging pictures of cute guys

and, the worst part, glaring at her as if shes a sea-slug. Thats a suffering of being pretty and being liked

by many boys from other school. Even if she, Tiffany, didnt care about it, it has drawn the line between

her and the real world. A chic, selfish world she wouldnt even dream of sharing with Jessica.

Their world is plain. They settled themselves apart from the complexity of life, thinking only beneficial

things for themselves. Selfishness is non-existent; love doesnt give a room to jealousy. Love blossomed

there like the rose of Sharon on a cool, spring month. Love scented there like honeydew at the edge of

their tongue. Love felt there like a fortification barricading the cruelness of the world. And they only

have each other for themselves.

Yet, Jessica wasnt around until after a week.

There was a tiny tear at the corner of Tiffanys eyes when she spotted Jessica at the lake, staring at its

depths in profound engrossment she appeared not moving an inch. Filled with hunger, Tiffany tore

towards the clawing thicket, breathless and emotional. The rustling sound she produced as she strode,

made a disruption to Jessicas abysmal reverie, and she riveted to the panting Tiffany.

Jessicas face looked as if shed suffered an adults burden of a lifetime: shadows rested under her eyes,

and her hair seemed untrimmed all these days, carefree, windblown and unknotted. Bitterness was vivid

on her shattered visage, and her almost graying lips quivered as she stifled a sob, an expression implying

grief held back. Her heart beat against her chest, epitomizing the triggering love as they stared at each

other like memorizing every detail in their faces.

There were neither bright rays nor comforting winds around them. Winter had already started the first

phase, and had taken over the momentary autumn. Even the dried leaves were decomposed, and the

ground was mushy. There were no marks of life around them but just a concoction of grief, sadness,

misery, happiness and love, mixed together that caused an awkward implosion as if theyd just met.

Tiffany remained rooted on a position only their eyes could meet. Jessica seemed to have no power to

stand from her comfortable position. And they were both numb, unable to react due to the nimbleness

of the meeting. Must they run to hug each other? Of course.

Jessicas expression was grieving. It was clear that something broke her. And Tiffany felt it, the pain

Jessica is at the moment. This was the first time Tiffany had seen Jessica in such status, and also the first

time she will try to comfort her. Juvenile at this, Tiffany fell on her knees and sported an expression of

the deepest confounding. Jessica empathized the meaning of that look: she grinned. A grim sort of smile.

Tiffany started to sob. You left me.

If only Tiffany knew, Jessica thought, what hellish din shed been barred these past few days. If she only

knew what mistreat shed suffered from the hands of her devilish stepfather, she wouldnt have said

those words.

But these stuffs, Jessica always kept it within her. She doesnt want Tiffany to help her. It was her

personal sin. Shed put too much pride to herself that shed been secluded by the demons that would

drag her down, denying any helping hands or even requesting one. All their lives, shed only shown

Tiffany an image of endurance, of power to stand against any inbounding snags fate would throw upon

her. In spite of the beauty of those words, Jessica knew it was merely flaunting. She was never strong.

The daringness shed boasted in front of Tiffany was counterfeit of the real self, which is fragile,

emotional and useless.

Miyoung-ah, she said monotonously, staring at Tiffanys eyes but not blinking. There were enough

tears in her eyes sufficient for moisture.

It was moment as though theyve exchanged their personality. Tiffany did everything she can to prevent

herself from crying while on the other hand, Jessica was already in wild tremor at her feet. As Tiffany bit

her lip, she thought about all the years theyve shared. How Jessica protected her from the tiniest to the

most intolerable harm shed been plunged into. Those wonderful moments had proved that the forged

link is a fiery actuality, the source of power, a brain-like part, a core of life and the wings that let them

fly. It was beyond of any understanding. Even themselves doesnt understand it, but the purpose of its

existence is clear for them: that of any spectacle, any streak of disaster, theyre bound to help each

other, to tend each others wound to breathe an air amidst of the wintery pain that got them

suffocated.

What happened to you? Tiffany asked, the melancholy clear from her voice.

Nothing, Jessica shook her head and stared away. As Tiffany sauntered toward her, a mad desire to

run away, to hide from shame that left a mark in her face, seemed to fill her gradually. Yet, as Tiffany

grabbed her shoulder, stared at her sparkling eyes, she found out that love is what brought her here, a

shimmering lure Tiffany would never, ever, regret following in. Jessica was frozen to her position and

just gazed back to Tiffanys amazingly determined stare. Then there was a plethora of love.

Jess, you know how much I love you, said Tiffany sincerely, her words cutting down deeper to Jessicas

heart for there to linger forever. She heaved a sigh, and stared away from the eye contact. She was in a

brink of tears when, suddenly, Tiffany crouched down and smiled at her in spite of herself.

Then there was a blissful streak of light. The magic of that smile had made Jessica smirked to herself,

and even made her eyes shook. Tears sparkled to their eyes, hands were locked eternally and lips met.

The warmth appeared again within them. It was an eruption of hungry hearts in spite of the fluid

gestures and placid motions. As Jessica ran down a finger over Tiffanys perfumed hair, she was in

heaven. Tiffany strangled her with the sweetest embrace, and it was a problem shared, a problem

halved. Like a husband and a wife

As the oblivion took over their soul, there was a soft sob. Tiffany broke their moistened lips and gawped

at her for a moment.

The nightmare, in Jessica, flashed inside her head and it made her quiver with unseen angst. She doesnt

deserve Tiffany: shed already been tarnished. However, the glint on Tiffanys eyes showed persistence

even if Jessica was against the grain. Jess, Im always here for you, the same way youd been with me

when I need you. I owe a lot from you. I wouldnt inquire what specifically happened to you, I know its

bad but I dont care. What matters is that were here. Were at our heaven! As she delivered those

mellifluous words, she grabbed Jessicas arms and pulled her up. Thighs shaking slightly, Jessica

awkwardly smiled as Tiffany laughed unashamedly. No one can hear their merriment and childishness

anyways, thought Tiffany, so why not let the passive mountains hear your felicitousness a hundred times

clearer.

Jessica farts after eating exactly three sweet potatoes! Tiffany yelled, and Jessica growled but brightly.

Yah! My fart is odorless but its kinda loud, she stuck her tongue out and Tiffany grinned happily. For

a moment, she thought she would never smile like this. Not until she found herself chuckling with

Jessica, until they were both consumed with overflowing gladness.

Isnt it too cliche talking about farts inside an isolated jungle? Jessica asked, after laughing her lungs

out and amidst of catching breathes as they sat down by their favorite cliff. The afternoon sky showered

them with orange light and despite the cloudless velvet upon them; they both knew that something is

behind the atmosphere and it was happy to drown them with warmth.

Tiffany did not answer the question at once. She immersed herself on listening to the rustles of the

forest and splashes of the lake, a melody sung by Earth, arranged by peace undaunted and pristine.

Jessica, as well, seemed profoundly captivated by the giant ecosystem delimiting them in a fortress of

trees. The natures seemed to be in harmony and one with the earth, with the wind, with the waters and

with the sky. The link that connected them glimmered mightily, by the cycle that will never end. Like

their love

Are you afraid that the monkeys will find out that you eat more than fifty sweet potatoes and farts like

an earthquake? Tiffany teased after a minute of silence. Jessica let out a nasal sound and smirked.

I was molested, Miyoung. By my stepfather, suddenly, the bitter truth touched Jessicas lips and been

verbalized. She forced a smile as Tiffanys eyes widened with shock.

WHAT? She exclaimed prompting at once as she saw Jessica wipe the glittering tear from her left eye,

an apparent epitome of sadness held back.

I dunno what to do. He said if I ever tell it to somebody, hell kill me. So I chose to isolate myself, said

Jessica indifferently. She had been strong for Tiffany, and yet, this was a total fail of expectation. Shame

brimmed in her chest in plethora."You will understand, right?"

Tiffany threw an incredulous look. We should call the police! she said anxiously, staring at Jessica as if

she will shatter at any moment. But sitting beside Tiffany can make Jessica virtually indestructible.

Therefore, Jessica shifted her expression that told Tiffany it was all right and she was happy now. Tiffany

merely shrugged and gave a gesture of awareness. Rather anxiously, she just said but still in perplexity,

Jess, what in earth your stepfather loves you! Id seen it before! How come what makes him change

like this?

Biting her lip, Jessica stared away and rested her sight over the glimmering lake. Tiffany was right. Her

stepfather wasnt really like this before. However, doubt and illogical suspicion changed him to what he

is now: an unimaginable beast hungry for, not attention or violence, but for understanding, which at

times, drove him crazy, depressively frenzied. It seemed it wouldnt change anymore, though.

Nonetheless, Jessica doesnt care now, and the only thing she had been pondering all this time to

console herself was,

Take me with you, Miyoung.

Chapter Four: Home

Damp and soaked, Tiffany emerged from the water, trickles of liquid dripping down from her wet hair

that matted above her curled forehead. You said youre just underneath the surface of the lake, Jess.

Youre not there. Then she fell on the ground, kissing the lakes soil with his cheeks. The birds halted

tweeting, the mountains peered at her grieving and the might force is nowhere perceptible.

Jessica remembered the first day she bustled upon the nostalgic octagonal stepping-stones when she visited Tiffany in her house for the first time to ask whether she could lend

Tiffanys Math project so she could copy it. Now, as Tiffany jolted the metal ingress of their peculiarly

large yard and gigantic house nestled at the middle of an unreachable-by-sight apple plantation, she felt

as though shes bound to ask for another project to forge. It brought memories back inside her head,

and it somewhat overlaid the gruesome events that took place these past few days. As of the moment,

she was sucked by the thought that shell going to live with Tiffany. And it was enough reason to show

some brightness in the face and lift her head up with a smile.

Like the dried leaves in the autumn, some dark memories must fall off from the branches. After all, shes

unconquerable now because of the presence of the well of strength beside her who addressed a usual

but amazingly cheerful beam. Tiffanys milky skin seemed to be glowing in the twilight, her chinky smile

vivid. She stepped on the pedal once more, with Jessica wrapping her arms around her and sitting at the

back: then they flew their way across horizontal path closer to the villa-like house. It was almost nightfall,

and there was only minimal luminosity coming from the dozing off sun and lamps lit in flank by the

roadside. However, its sufficient for a three hundred sixty degree visibility that clearly showed the rows

of apple trees lush beside them as they ran along the road.

Your parents wont get mad at us, will they? asked Jessica timidly, her bangs flying up. Despite the fact

that Tiffanys parents liked her, however, that doesnt mean they will be supportive all the time. This

notion made her swallow a mouthful of air and bit her lower lip anxiously.

Well see, assured Tiffany as if nothing worries her. Just try to be more positive now. Were going to

live together from now on. Cant that make you a little more optimistic? Then they were both

consumed with happiness that they expressed through hysterical laughs from Tiffany and snorting

chuckles from Jessica.

Tiffany pulled over in front of the porch, and they both jumped on the mushy ground. Jessica ran an eye

over the large field where cattles chewed their cuds lazily. There was at least a hundred of it, and right

now, they have to expend their time grazing because when winter stepped in, they will spend the entire

season inside the ranch. After scanning this, Jessica stared upon the three-story building erected in front

of her. There are fifteen windows and a large door in the protruding shaded alfresco, and its walls were

splashed with cream-white paint. Its red slate tiled roof, western-inspired porch and exterior settled

that Tiffany was way more than just a middle-class girl. Having said that, their social status wasnt a

talking matter. Tiffany never boasted anything in front of her. It was her most admired trait, in Jessicas

opinion, other than being strong in the inside.

Jess, cmon, amidst of the profound thought, Tiffany burst Jessicas bubble with an urgent tone.

Jessica quickly gathered herself together in spite of the rubbery feeling on her legs that seemed to be

sending a message toward her brain shes sick. But she threw it aside for a while, and all she must do

now is to force a convincing look upon her face and smile broadly.

They ambled towards the porch, holding each others hands, and Tiffany dramatically pressed the

doorbell. Dont worry, mom loves me too much. She casted a bolstering grin that did nothing to lessen

the pressure that pressed Jessica like a sandwich. It was faith that lifted it, and she felt it when Tiffany

grabbed her slightly trembling hands. The proved seal, once more, had provided strength. Jessica

couldnt help but to smile, and then she puffed her chest and signaled Tiffany Go!

Mom, were here, she called as the door swung open. Tiffany unstrapped her bag around her shoulder

and threw it at the lounge-ensconced right side of the hallway. Heaving another breathe, Jessica

stepped at the doorway and gazed for a moment at the splendor and glamour shimmering inside

Tiffanys abnormally spacey house. Everything inside were western, and the familiar expressionism

paintings that hung elegantly across the every walls of the interior seemed to remind Jessica how

stinking rich Tiffany is.

************************

Walking only a few steps, her legs trembled and her head went dizzy until all she could see were blurred

and hazy lights and figures. Repressing it, she drew an extremely deep breathe and continued beaming

in spite of herself. Tiffany doesnt seem to notice it, anyway, Jessica thought.

She threw her bag just where Tiffany flung hers, and followed her as they both sauntered across the

carpeted hall, dancing orange light filling every void shed carried with her all this time. The grin had

appeared upon her face, and regardless of the dizziness and fever-like feelings, she went on, clasping

Tiffanys hands as they both arrived in front of a Victorian ingress.

Oh, Fany! And dont tell me its Jessica! How splendid to have her back here! Tiffany was about to

push the door opened, when suddenly, from their backs, turned up Mrs. Hwang, in her casual and

slightly elegant garment. The brisk smile she sported as she scanned Jessica was somewhat intimidating,

but as a promise to Tiffany, she must be optimistic. Her lips curved into an indifferent grin, and Mrs.

Hwang bustled toward her, strangling her in a tight but rather motherly embrace. She was never hugged

like that before by other person than Tiffany. Even her mother. And the initial reaction after that

soothing bosom that squashed her body had told her it exists, the maternal love.

Mom, do you think youre a bit too much, Tiffany disrupted, and Mrs. Hwang and Jessica snapped

back to her. She was grinning from ear to ear.

Then my little daughter would have some as well, Mrs. Hwangs solaced statement and gesture

towards her daughter made Jessica realized that Tiffany doesnt just have the riches, and also the

abundance of comforting kindle and care. For a second or two, she envied her.

Mom, we need to talk, suddenly, Tiffanys tone became urgent. Mrs. Hwang remained smiling brightly

and nodded toward the kitchen. Jessica gulped down a mouthful of air, and as the two sauntered to a

table, Jessica stayed put on her feet, peering over the gape by the doorway. She could clearly hear the

conversation from where she stood, and just lingered there, listening anxiously.

What is it, my dear? asked Mrs. Hwang in a tone Jessica never heard from her mother. A tone of care,

understanding as though she was ready for any tiding her daughter will bring up.

Can Jessica stay here forever? Jessica could hear Tiffanys anxious voice to some extent.

Why? What happened? said Mrs. Hwang, shifting to seriousness abruptly.

You see mom, Jessica saw Tiffany gawping away from her mothers stare. Theres a trace of worry on

her expression, and Jessica thought everything would become fiasco. Tiffany resumed, You see mom,

Jessica was kind of sick. And her parents had flown to Japan for some business and she was left in the

house. Can she stay here for like a month or two?

Jessica prayed like she never prayed before. She doesnt want to go back on that cursed place she never

considered home; she had enough of it. In fact, she had too much of it that shed became sick with it.

How her stepfather mistreated her was intolerable now that she wanted to escape from its grasp and

live a normal life. The life she had when her fathers still alive. Quite suddenly, memories flashed back

inside her head. Fragments of which she thought were buried together with her fathers body.

Memories that had become as clear as the azure streak across the October sky. Those where the golden

days of her life, and back then, it was almost as unbearable as the moments shared with Tiffany. Until it

was shattered with a sudden heart-attack that took the second person in the world that can make her

happy.

Since then, she was nothing but a broken doll trapped inside a nightmare she thought was a perfect

salvage from the lament her late father left to her. The only probable reason why she was battered

down by her stepfather is that he thought she was still haunted by the memories of her father. It was

the stupidest reason shed ever thought but it was very likely. But on the bright side, if it wasnt because

of Tiffany, shed probably nothing more than just a scratching stick erected because she thought theres

still hope when there hasnt.

Mrs. Hwang sighed, and for a jiff, Jessica was wrapped with pessimistic notions. Until a smile cracked

across Mrs. Hwangs face, and as she pinched her daughters cheeks saying, Anything that can make my

Tiffany happy, I agree, bliss took over Jessicas soul. She could jump a million times and continuously

punch the air, but she kept it within herself for a while and pretended for a moment that she hadnt

heard a single thing.

Tiffany emerged from the door, smiling very broadly that her iris was barely visible through her curved

eyelids. She was followed by Mrs. Hwang, who had her arms resting around Tiffanys shoulders, and

Jessica thought those pretty eye smile Tiffany has was a stereotype copy of the person standing behind

her.

Did you bring any clothes, Jessica? asked Mrs. Hwang jocundly, letting her daughter go to hug Jessica.

I can lend mine, mom, assured Tiffany mirthfully, once again, grabbing Jessicas arms. Jessica thought

that once shed shut her eyes even for a mere ten seconds, tears will trickle down upon her cheeks.

Tears that symbolizes joy, of a jovial feeling brought by freedom. Her parents would surely not go out

looking for her. Shes almost thrown away, so shes more than certain, they will never turn up suddenly,

dragging her back to that forsaken house she despised.

As Tiffany beckoned her upstairs, for the first time these past few days, a truthfully happy grin etched

across her visage.

************************

I always knew that my little Tiffany has grown considerably bigger than you, Jessica, this summer, said

Mr. Hwang as the family, with the new member, gathered in front of an ample specially whipped up for

Jessica. Mr. Hwang came back from a stressful hospital shift but despite of this, he had empathized what

bogus situation Tiffany made up for Jessica. In addition to the fact that the house was absolutely too big

for them; theyre more than willing to throw a space for her daughters wish.

Jessica shoved a spoonful of rice, and grinned at him, her cheeks bulging. Mr. Hwang smiled wisely over

the braised beef stew that emits savory fume.

Dad, thats why I wanted to do swimming with Jessica, said Tiffany, her voice muffled through a

mouthful of marinated beef.

Why? asked the teasingly naive father.

Because I felt like Im getting fat, appended Tiffany, followed with a shrug and a large swallow. Jessica

is in the schools swimming team, and regardless of the fact that shed joined the varsity without her

parents consent; she just did what she loves.

You should focus yourself on your class. I want you to become a doctor like me, Fany-ah, said Mr.

Hwang in a fatherly sort, based on some bits of dictation in his voice. You should not goof off and focus

on whats necessary for your future. Were not always there for you.

Jessica thought that not all parents are the same. Some was there, but seemed nowhere. This discussion

made her all ears all through the dinnertime. The legislative authority in Mr. Hwangs words was like a

foreboding prospect that Tiffany was obliged to become like him. To that, Jessica has no power to

interfere. She only exists to make her happy. The same way Tiffany is to her.

Sleeping time was honestly the best time every time Jessica does a sleepover inside the Hwangs

perimeter. Other than a tall glass of milk that suddenly made Jessica reminisced her childhood days,

they were next to each other, over Tiffanys large four-poster bed.

Dad is getting itchy on me, said Tiffany, as Jessicas left arm wrapped around her. I feel like I was

ought to do what he wants.

Thats what some kids must do, especially if they have parents like yours, said Jessica a little positively,

masking the jealousy through that statement.

Then if you say so, Ill become a doctor, Tiffany answered drowsily and as though it was an easy task.

But Jessica believed in her, and she can do it. She will support it. Anything for her Miyoung

Before they even knew it, trance had dragged them to a slumber. Back in the meadow that was not

more of a surreal now. Because in the real world, theyre inches close.

Chapter Five: Might

If I forebode that life is as enduring as this, that the promised eternity was non-existent after I fought

and died in battle, I would still be glad, Miyoung-ah, said Jessica, her breathing gradually becoming

heavy. I mean, Ive got a once in a life time chance to share my joy with you so if anything happens to

me, right now, I would go on, bearing the same grin as the first time Ive met you.

Jess, its time to wake up, Tiffany drowsily nudged her sleepmate, who seemed drawn deeply to her sleep.

Jessica remained immobile.

Jess, cmon, were gonna be late. Its PE class today, youre favorite. Cmon... Tiffany faded with a

yawn. Her sight fell outside, which showed the mountains drowned in perfect azure and the sky painted

in ghostly blue. It mustve been an obvious sign that winter has come and the rickety vest that was

stocked all through the past seasons is going to be pulled out from its slumber.

Tiffany drew a deep breathe, and scratched her puffy eyelids that refused to open widely. Then she

remembered her eyes never gape broadly; she just forced a smirk. Smiling pathetically, she shook

Jessicas shoulders wake up.

It was responded with shudders.

Jess? asked Tiffany, now wide-awake and anxious. Jessica, who was sleeping with her back on Tiffany,

shivered as if shes in front of a freezer. Tiffany peered over her, and saw trickles of sweat running down

upon Jessicas temples and brittles lingering on her forehead. She bit her lip so much that it seemed

bloodied. Her arms were wrapped around her chest, and her legs were curled as though scared. Jess,

are you okay? MOM!

Vigorously, she shook Jessica, fear fervently creeping on her spine, sending a message to her brain.

Jessica groaned, and her eyes quivered. Im cold, she murmured and Tiffany almost instinctively flung

her arms around her, providing a comforting kindle. Moments ago, she was laughing at her eyes but

now its as wide as it could get because of shock. Jessica never got this sick before.

No, dont take her to me. Tiffany hysterically thought, her arms almost grappling Jessica. You cant take

her to me; youd have to get pass through me before you can. Jessica should not be dying because it will

truly kill Tiffany, and right now, bitterness lashed her soul. Im strong! I can fight. You will never

penetrate into me. In her mind, she was intimidating something.

For a second, she thought she would go crazy until the rooms door jostled open: Mr. Hwang, the

heaven-sent doctor, hastily darted toward Jessica. Tiffany, as she made way for her father, feared letting

Jessica go, but she knew she had to. Mr. Hwang quickly crouched down and gently pressed an arm over

Jessicas forehead. Fever. Go get a towel. Drip it on lukewarm water.

Tiffany nodded, filled with fervor, and dashed towards the bathroom. She grabbed a hanging towel by

the shower gown, and dripped it accidentally to cold water. Hands numbed, she frantically threw the

useless towel anywhere and fumbled for a new one. Tears were gushing down from her trembling

cheeks and stifled moans reverberated in muffled sounds. Chaotically, she flung all the garments she

could find in her drawer and feverishly fumbled for a piece of clothing.

Dad I cant find one Her eyebrows were crossed and her heart throbbed against her chest, ten

times faster than normal. It thudded so powerfully that she could feel it pounding against her ribcage.

Her lungs were catching from the pulsation that nasal noises were coming out from her nose, together

with puffs of steam due to coldness.

They cant take Jess away from me. She thought those words as if cutting it to a stone as she continued

fumbling for the stupid towel. Her mind was in a brink of chaos that she fell to her knees, energy

fluctuated down, and her chin slammed at the hard corner of drawer. But the agony it brought did not

register itself onto her brain, and just pulled her jelly-like legs up and resumed groping. There were crazy

noise echoing inside her ear, and it was as if theyre laughing at her. The stillness of the room vanished,

and all she could here are disarrayed dissonance that was punching deeper and deeper into her ear.

Sweat trickled from her forehead, and tears wetted her widened eyes as her fingers hysterically delved

inside the drawer. Wheres the. towel? Calmness was nowhere within her. She was in the grasp of

bedlam, and her brains functioning was being interfered by the unseen turmoil. Diminutive beads of

cold sweat glittered on her face, lips bitten and anxiousness clear from her expression.

Jessica was not dying. She will not die. She wont leave her alone.

She kept on plastering those words in her head but it just added to intolerable chaos. She was just

looking for a towel. A simple thing. Is that a sign that she cant do anything for Jessica? That all she has

to do now is to sit back and watch her crawled upon the sheets, shivering? She wont let it.

But the towel did not merge into sight, and because of the frustration, she let out a dolphin-like shriek

that made the enigmatic noise abruptly still. She pressed a hand onto her ear, shuddering through the

angst, which the origin seemed non-existent. Crazily, she halted screeching and resumed searching for a

piece of clothing, stifled moans creating grief-struck resonances. Jess, wait a sec. Imma get you a towel.

Just wait. Dont leave me. Her mutterings were muffled through sobs. Her shudders slumped even

lower through lethargy.

Tiffany! A voice echoed. But she continued fumbling for a towel, with eyes half-closed and low breaths

stifling through her lungs. Miyoung-ah.

At the sound of her distinct name, she suddenly stopped to what shes doing. Hearing it was like a thin

drop of water that fell to her thirsted lips. Mechanically, she turned around and saw Mr. Hwang in a look

she couldnt comprehend because of the fiery chaos. Legs quivering, she stood up and faced her father

wearing an expression beseeching for understanding. Miyoung-ah, its okay. Its just a fever.

Everythings gonna be alright: just stay calm.

His voice was frigid and straightforward, and the cheekiness of it was an assurance in the ear for Tiffany.

She slumped down the floor, her rear plummeting with a muffled thud and, while repressing the hiccups,

vacantly stared at her father as he erected for a moment, striding towards the bathroom. After a minute,

he went back, clutching a damp piece of cloth, slightly fuming from the warm water where it was

probably dunked in. He tottered over the mess Tiffany created moments ago, and sat back gently beside

Jessica, who was now sleeping straight and seemed under control. She had stopped shivering.

Jessica, Tiffany murmured from the corner, is not dying, is she, father? Despite the foolishness

found on that statement, it was crammed with fear and worry. Mr. Hwang noticed it and felt the

seriousness from her tone.

Of course not, dear. He dabbed Jessicas forehead with the warm towel, and Tiffany could hear

Jessicas deep breathing of comfort. Mr. Hwang resumed, Jessica is a strong girl. Very strong indeed.

For a jiff, Tiffany had forgotten about that. The fact that Jessica was stronger than she was physically

petered out for a moment in her head. The folly had slapped her. She finds herself ludicrous.

Jessica, she said, a broad grin widening from her expressive lips and eyes, is stronger than me. Shes

not dying.

You got it, lady. Nailed in the head, Mr. Hwang nodded as he wiped Jessicas delicate neck to her face

where a sign of comfort vivid. Before they even realized it, the sun was on. A bright ray was resting upon

the carpeted portion of the room, in front of Tiffany. Ever so slowly, she gazed sideways to stare outside.

At the middle of the gray clouds was the sun, shimmering, defiant and bringing hope in air. A brown bird

perched on the dead tree that was obstructing her right window. The feathered visitor started tweeting

on a song, a melody that penetrated Tiffanys sadness, sending hope through her soul.

How much more test do we have to face?

She asked through a tearful smile. Shrugging, she erected from the cold surface of the floor and glided

towards the windowpane, staring at the pale outlines of the mountains, to the hazy field and to the odd

spectacle lying across the sky. Theres a sun. Amidst of the circling gray clouds that might bring snow any

moment. It was a visualized metaphor. The sun symbolizes their might; while the gray clouds are the

hindrance and obstacles they have to face. The sun remained defiantly bright that it penetrated the

clouds thick obstructions. It shows they did it. They can win.

M-M-Miyoung-ah

Again, at the sound of her name, she twirled around and hastily dashed towards the bed where Jessica

was half-awake with her eyes agape to some extent.

Imma scoot so you girls can talk, said Mr. Hwang softly, standing up after placing the cloth on Jessicas

forehead. After addressing a grin to Tiffany, in which she answered with an eye smile, he immediately

ambled to the doorway, jostling the oak with his leg and stepping out, stretching while yawning though

apparently hes wide-awake now.

Smiling at the shut door, Tiffanys eyes fell to Jessica, who seemed conscious. Howre you feeling, fart

queen?

Jessica weakly smirked. You gotta have to wait for my old strength so I could squash you. Despite the

truth that Tiffany was bigger than her, she was daring. Malright. My backs aching but Ive been

through worst, if you know what I mean. A somewhat broken smile twitched at the corner of Jessicas

lips.

You scared the poop out of me, said Tiffany, earnestly changing the subject. She knew it wasnt good

for Jessica to unearth the dark experiences she has.

Thought imma die, didnt you? said Jessica coolly regardless of the lethargy through her croaking voice.

Tiffany nodded with an awkward smile. Shed been embarrassed to herself after what happened

minutes ago. Therefore, she prayed that Jessica hadnt seen it. I saw you throwing your undies in the

air like a maniac. Found a treasure? Coz youre like digging a mine from the drawer.

They both chuckled but Tiffanys rather abashed. After laughing for a minute, there was a silence.

Tiffany stared at Jessicas half-opened eyes, and she saw a speckle of glint on it. Then the mind talk

began.

Jessica had been in so much pain. It was more than clear because it has been a shadow from her face.

One look from her smile, people might notice the bitterness from it. One look from her eyes, there was a

trace where tear tracks mightve run down. Be that, it was also clear from her expression that shed

fought her way out on every battle, without being cocky and cheeky. Her face might be worn down by

this fever, but to Tiffany, who had been a bare witness of Jessicas strength, she knew that behind the

battle-fatigued visage, was a well of might. And the source of that power was her, Tiffany. The one

Jessica loves, will always love and would eternally admires. If there were a sacrifice needed to make

Tiffany happy, shed be more than willing to give her own life for her. Because, it was her only purpose

to stay put on this planet. To make this girl happy, to put up a smile on her face for the reason that there

are many people out there seeking for joy. And she, Jessica, was beyond luckily she already found hers

on Tiffany.

You dont need to kiss me to express your feelings, dumb, she said as Tiffany slowly crouches down for

a smooch.

Dramatically, she halted bending and smiled at Jessica. What should I do, fart queen?

Jessica wanted to say Tiffany had already showed it, but she kept it again within her and just gestured

her to come closer. Tiffany obeyed, Jessica pulled her even closer and then once more, they were sealed.

Chapter Six: Anemia? Remember the first snow weve seen when were ten years old? Remember the time when you dyed my

fingernail because you want me to find my true love? Remember how it was futile because were both

stuck under a shade coz it snowed like hell? Remember how you smiled? Tell me, Jess, do you remember

it? As Tiffany sat alone by their sacred cliff, there were tears on her eyes.

The workers started harvesting the apples. Tiffany and Jessica joined them, carrying plastic trays and wearing gloves. As they sauntered to help, they have a clear view around them. The golden sky

was never majestic as this. The frigid wind was never as cold as this. Apparently, it was a large cloister of

beauty and a simple but gleeful smile is not enough to answer the splendid actuality of what stood next,

opposite, above, beneath and at their backs. As a complimentary, it added a considerable amount of fun

to the fact that the two were together, reaping apples from its branches while cloyed by an atmosphere

Gaea had bestowed upon by her great, majestic power. Then there was a natural redolence of apple-

scent and woodsy smell of cinnamon and ginger tea carried by the zephyrs and it was like an invitation

to lifes contentment and eternal quench. Occasionally, Tiffany would halt placing the apples to the trays,

and she would breathe in the fragrance of defiant dried leaves still lingering on the ground and on the

trees. Placidity had taken over every inch of her body. There was peace.

The gleaning process was somewhat late because Mr. Hwang, the doctor of the family and also the

manager of the field, has to do some errands back in Seoul. Yet, the apples were still more than fresh

and the crispiness was still intact as Jessica, coughing slightly, wiped the cheek of a particular red one

and chomped a huge portion with a loud crunch. Her sweet palate triggered sending bliss to her throat

as she munched happily despite the warm, uncomfortable feeling that hung back after her fever.

Tiffany was right: Jessica never got sick like that before. And even if she gave surety to Tiffany, inside,

she felt scared that something was happening to her. Yesterday, when she went to the bathroom, a

piercing pain from her pelvis stung her like a bee. And every night, she found herself shivering from an

unknown cause regardless of the five layers of clothing, excluding the sheets she shared with Tiffany and

Tiffanys arms around her; she still feel somewhat cold. It was like a permanent fever to her but after the

compliments about being strong, she does her best to keep it to herself even though sometimes the

agony from the lower part of her body was excruciatingly painful; she tried to keep it subtle and sport

the same beam as Tiffanys.

Jess, catch!

Jessica suddenly turned around and saw an apple flying towards her face. Then her eyes were blurred as

it winked, and the solidity of the fruit smashed her forehead. She fell to her knees as Tiffany hastily

dashed to her, apologetic. Oh my god, Im sorry Jess

Jessica felt a lump from where the apple had hit, but it wasnt the thing that bothers her at the moment.

Usually, she could catch a flying object responsively without even looking at it. She couldnt blame

Tiffany because theyre used to throwing things to each other, and she, Jessica, all ways catch it really

well. But the thing that got her flummoxed is how her eyes got clouded so suddenly. She couldnt be sick.

She just cant.

Mokay, Jessica blurted out after staring at the earth for more than a minute. Tiffany eyed her

anxiously until Jessica casted an ensured look that lifted Tiffanys worry. Yet, as Jessica rounded herself

together and tried to erect, her legs quivered and her vision got hazy. Her heart thudded against its cage

suddenly so fast that blood pumped up to her face, shading it with crimson. She thought shes about to

fall down until Tiffany swung her arms around her and pulled her up.

Oh, Jess, you just got hit in the head.

But to Jessica, it was unusual. She could feel her energy disappearing, and her thighs started loosing

strength that it began to shake vigorously. Her arms slipped off Tiffanys grip and she plummeted down

the ground, bewildered upon whats happening to her. Her eyes were wide with shock, and as she

stared at Tiffany, she sent a message through her eyes that something bad is happening to her. Tiffany

caught it, but being optimistic is there goal nowadays. She smiled and concealed the anxiety.

Get up, fart queen otherwise youd gonna be dragged back to porch. Her grin was compelled, and

Jessica almost shook her head and wanted to cry what she truly feels but then again, she thought it

would just fade the smile away across Tiffanys face, and she cant do that.

Recklessly, she gathered all the strength she could muster and put it onto her leg. She grabbed Tiffanys

arms and hoisted her body while trembling. Like a spear that suddenly impaled onto her, the pelvic pain

struck her again, and she couldnt hide it anymore.

Ow!

She fell back on the ground, massaging her hip that felt as if burning. Grinding sound coming from her

clenching teeth muttered resonances of beseech. The intensity of the pain was unbearable that her

mind was in a storm, and there were chaos within. As her left hand massages the pelvic part of her body,

her free right hand was clasped in a stone hard fist that is so tight she could feel her fingernails sinking

down her palm. Running out of force from her clasped hands, she clutched the ground and squashed it,

never giving up fighting the pain.

Jess? Tiffany crouched down, horrified upon Jessicas writhing state. It took her a moment to register

that Jessica needs help because of the nimbleness of the things these days. As she stared over Jessicas

contorted face that reflects only the deepest pain, she finally knew that she has to shout her fathers

name.

DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAD!

But theyre in the middle of nowhere, obstructed with tall apple trees in an obscuring thicket their sight

couldnt be able to penetrate. The workers were gleaning at the far side of the field. Theyre on their

own now. And in the brink of turmoil.

Argh, Jessica whimpered through gritted teeth. Shes in a battle against the agony, and she couldnt

keep it to herself any longer. The burning feeling was like hell, searing through her genital flesh that she

repressed a shriek that resonated a subdued hush of pain. Curled in an uncomfortable position, she

started rolling over the cold ground, a mad desire to knock herself out just to break out from the utter

pain, relentlessly banged behind her skull. Tiffany had fallen to her knees, aghast to the scene upon

which she doesnt have any idea how to cease.

It was all so fast that she had forgotten to cry. She felt numb, though deep inside she knew she must

have been wailing now. But even shedding a tear, she cant do anything for Jessica, when Jessica had

done everything to her. Disappointment bubbled inside her, guilt fired up like a huge blaze, and

desperation shoved her in the face.

And then cries started reverberating.

As Jessica continued whimpering, Tiffany had grabbed her in the shoulders and yelled, IF YOURE

GOING TO DIE, TELL ME! IF YOURE GONNA LEAVE, SAY SO! DONT JUST WHINE THERE AND ROLL

AROUND BECAUSE Suddenly, she faded, shuddering through every sobs. She wanted to hit Jessica

bad. She wanted to shout, Whyre you doing this to me? Why do you always make me worry about

you? but she knew she cant. Jessica had done so much for her, and she was more than obliged to help

her that it became a responsibility. However, she cant do anything to her at the moment except by

throwing her arms around her and lift her tenderly, thrusting every strength, every joy and every happy

memories, to the bond to provide a warm, soothing embrace.

There were no sounds of any kind, other than a chirping bird that perched itself over a nearby apple tree.

It stood there, appearing as if watching the two. Just as Tiffany grinded her teeth because of the lack of

action from herself, she saw the bird hopping closer to them. Then Jessicas loud moans became stifled

groans that eventually became still and only heaves of deep breathes.

The bird started tweeting, and began fidgeting its head in a playful manner. At that precise moment,

Jessica groaned, Mi young-ah. She had won the battle. She fought the pain. And for the last time, an

autumn shine submerged them in an unimaginable ray of warmth. As Jessica rested her head over

Tiffanys lap, as Tiffany ran a finger over Jessicas lips, as the winds whispered songs in their ears, a

melody sung by the trees, consoling them through rough moments like the one that had just happened;

the workers suddenly came to rescue despite the fact that things are already settled.

************************

Hows she? asked Mr. Hwang as the doctor emerged from the door, his expression frigid as a usual

doctor.

We have to run some further test. Do you know her parents, Dr. Hwang? asked the doctor in a hallway

conversation.

Quite literally, Im her father now. By the way, if it would be based on my impression, its an anemia,

right? Mr. Hwang said in a professional sort.

The doctor stared away and gazed at the whitewash adobe wall. We can talk about it at my office, Dr.

Hwang.

Tiffany was with Jessica on a private room, with Mrs. Hwang. Although the pain had ceased, Jessica was

brought down by it that she slept like a log, with only soft, nasal breathes can be heard. Tiffany was glad

that everything is fine now, because she will not be able to stand against it next time. She was just as

battered as Jessica was.

Mr. Hwang walked in towards the ingress, and stepped in at a typical doctors office. Piles upon piles of

books lay scattered upon the messy worktable. The lamp was lit in a gloomy state, making Mr. Hwang

remember how lonely a doctors life is.

He strode towards the seat in front of the table and sighed. The doctor, whose name was Kim Jong Hun,

sat back against the comfort of his chair and took his glasses, revealing a pair of thin and lethargic slits,

which happens to be the eyes.

Im going to ask a few questions, sir. Dr. Kim began in a tone that was very familiar to Mr. Hwangs

ears. A voice that pertains only if the patient was in a serious situation.

Fire, doc, he said in a false playful voice though he perfectly knew that theres a huge wave that would

swallow not only his soul but also most certainly her daughters.

Dr. Kim shoved his glasses again, and Mr. Hwang stared at it, his face reflecting through the spectacles.

The seriousness on Dr. Kims visage was telling Mr. Hwang to hold his breathe, and so he did.

Has there any forceful sexual intercourse occurred to Jessica, Dr. Hwang? asked Dr. Kim seriously, the

keenness inevitable and beyond clear.

Mr. Hwang wracked his brain for a recollection if her daughter ever mentioned something like that has

happened to Jessica. I dont think my daughter said anything about the matter. His eyes narrowed as

he rested it upon Dr. Kims frigid expression.

If itd be based on the symptoms she, Jessica, showed, which displayed apparent and more than

occasional fever, it concludes a certain anemia occurring within her. But the genital pain and

inflammation, upon which our nurses discovered while checking for any signs, suggests that it could be

beyond.

Which could be what, exactly?

Dr. Kim drew a deep breath and stared directly to Mr. Hwangs eyes. He crossed his legs and tapped his

finger upon the worktable until finally, This may not be sure, but were going to run a blood test.

However, it was very likely that Jessica is an HIV positive person and the abrupt pains were caused by an

acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

Chapter Seven: Loom

You should not touch me, Miyoung, nor go any nearer to me, Jessica beseeched in a desperate

pleading tone. I can bear myself with this disease but not with you, Miyoung. All I ever wanted is to

make you happy, and this is not part of the plan. But deep inside, a tall flame was burning her heart,

making her want to dash towards the flummoxed Tiffany and grappled her with an embrace she had

never done before. Yet, AIDS secluded her.

There was a muffled snore as Jessica drowsily opened her eyes, blinking rapidly to the luminosity that suddenly passed through her cornea, sending a hazy vision of the concrete ceiling and

curtained window. Wondering where the stifled noise was coming from, she compelled both eyelids to

open widely, though it repressed to keep shut due to the small amount of lethargy lingering through

every inch of her body. With the full manipulation of the brain, she forcefully opened her eyes wide and

saw herself sleeping comfortably over the hospitals squashy bed and inhaling the steam coming from

the heater. It passed through her nasal tracks, and the warmness provided by technology, made way to

tranquility within her anguished soul that was lashed with agony moments, or it can be days, ago.

Ever so slowly, she turned her head left and a desire to stand up an