Legal Disclaimer
This light novel is inspired by the beautiful landscapes and cultures of Bolivia and South Korea. However, the characters, events, and situations portrayed are entirely fictional. Any resemblance to real persons, places, or events is purely coincidental. This content does not intend to represent or reflect the historical, social, or cultural reality of either country. The author disclaims any legal liability arising from the interpretation of these elements.
Chapter 11.1 — Shared Journal
August 25, 2025
Zayra.-
You really put me in an awkward position that day. Ten minutes in the night, with my backpack in my hand, waiting… you know that's not something to enjoy.
However, I have to admit, you impressed me. The way you handled everything calmly, maintaining your composure while I was losing my patience… it caught my attention and, believe it or not, you earned a respect from me that I don't usually give so easily.
It was irritating… and, in a way, unexpectedly interesting. I think that moment marked a different beginning for us. Something that, over time, we have both built little by little.
R.
***
Author's Note
Readers, here Zayra, Ryu, and Min-Jun refer to some words that might sound strange if you don't know a bit of the context. So, we're going to explain them.
Legal Argument: A legal argument is the speech you give to convince a judge. In this case, Zayra is speaking to Ryu as if he were a judge to solve this problem.
To Retract: It means to back away from something you have said, promised, or affirmed. It's to acknowledge that you were wrong or that what you said before is no longer valid, and you withdraw it.
She timed you: It means I'm going to measure the time it takes you to do something. However, in this chapter, it refers to setting a strict time limit: The person is marking a fixed deadline for you to hurry and not be late. There is no flexibility.
To Keep Your Composure: It refers to staying calm, dignified, and in control in situations that would normally make a person agitated. In this chapter, it means to maintain dignity, and avoid inappropriate behaviors like shouting, crying uncontrollably in public, or making angry gestures.
A flash of irony in the eyes: A flash of irony in the eyes means that a person is expressing sarcasm or a double meaning with their gaze.
So, that's just how it is: This is a colloquial expression used to indicate resignation, acceptance of an inevitable situation, or to suggest that there is no other alternative. It's like saying "there's no other choice," "what can you do," or "that's just the way things are." It's used to express a mix of frustration and acceptance, especially when something didn't go as you expected or when you can't change the outcome of a situation.
***
August 25, 2025
Ryu. -
hehehe… Do you still remember that day? Yes, the day of the 10 minutes.
Look, I didn't do it out of malice.
It was because you called me a "thief" first. What did you expect? For me to greet you with flowers or a gift for insulting me? No, my love, you disrespected me first. So I had to make you feel a little of what I felt. That's called justice, you know?
Anyway, my love… if I hadn't done that, I don't think you would love me as much as you do today. Besides, admit it, you can't imagine your life without me… hehehe.
And well, that's already history, isn't it?
Zay.-