Kim Minjeong
I'm still stuck inside my car, tapping anxiously the steering wheel.
I'm actually on the same parking lot were those Karina and Yeonjun drama took place.
Earlier today, Mr. Lee called, he said he wanted to see me.
I kind of feel nervous and curious cause the shoot had been cancelled, Karina's probably will be on a hiatus for the mean time and I don't have work today.
Is it about all the stuff that's been happening?
Or maybe changes I need to know about?
Part of me hopes it's nothing too serious, but another part knows things have been tense since everything blew up.
I take a deep breath. Whatever it is, I just have to be ready.
I stepped out, jogged my way to the building's glass door and entered.
The lobby was quiet, almost too quiet.
A few people glanced up as I walked by, their faces unreadable. I tried to keep my pace steady, but my heart was pounding so hard than I wanted to admit.
I took the elevator, until it stopped to my floor.
At the top floor, I found the door to Mr. Lee's office slightly ajar. Taking a deep breath, I pushed it open and stepped inside.
Mr. Lee looked up from his desk, and beside him stood Karina's manager, both wearing serious expressions.
"Thanks for coming, Ms. Kim, I wanted to talk about everything that happened and the other necessary things."
Yoona-sshi gave me a small nod of support.
I swallowed hard, bracing myself.
This conversation was going to change a lot, I could feel it already.
I sat accross Yoona-sshi.
Mr. Lee cleared his throat and spoke, "Ms. Kim, me and on behalf of the whole company wanted to thank you." I was taken aback when he and Yoona-sshi stood and bowed.
I'm too stunned to speak.
What's happening?!
"The photos and video you took were crucial. They helped us get a clear picture of what happened-a solid evidence that was necessary for the authorities to know." His voice was steady and sincere.
Karina's manager nodded in agreement. "Your courage made all the difference. It wasn't easy, but you stood up not just for Karina, but for involvement of our company."
I finally found my voice, still a bit shaky.
"I just did what felt right. I couldn't stay silent. Especially when the victim is innocent."
Mr. Lee gave a small, appreciative smile. "And that's exactly why we're so grateful. You helped protect not only Karina but also the integrity of this company."
Yoona-sshi added, "We know this put you in a difficult position, but your actions have made a real difference. We want to assure you that your safety is our priority too, you'll have our full support."
I nodded, trying to absorb their words. It was a relief to hear those, but also a reminder of how much had been shaken.
And that person is Karina.
Mr. Lee leaned forward slightly. "Now, about what comes next-we're arranging support for everyone affected, and we'll be adjusting schedules to give Karina time to recover. As for you, we want your approval."
I tilted my head. Forehead creased. Confused.
"My approval on what exactly?" I asked, my eyes bouncing on the both of them.
Mr. Lee exchanged a quick glance with Yoona-sshi before turning back to me.
"What we're asking for your approval on, Ms. Kim, is a bit different," he said carefully. "We'd like to arrange for you to live in the same condominium building as Karina, at least temporarily. It's about ensuring safety-for Karina and for you."
I blinked, surprised. "Live... with Ms. Yu?"
Yoona-sshi spoke up gently, "Given everything that's happened, having someone close who understands the situation and can offer support is important. It's a precaution the company is taking to ensure the safety for the the both you during this time."
I nodded slowly, thinking it over. It made sense-especially with all the tension still lingering on the public eyes.
"If it's for safety and support, then... I'm okay with it." I said finally.
Mr. Lee gave a relieved smile. "Thank you, Ms. Kim. We'll make the arrangements and keep you both informed every step of the way."
This wasn't what I expected when I walked in, but maybe it was exactly what we needed.
~
Same day,later
At Kim Minjeong's residence
"Ya Kim Minjeong, don't you ever think or do stupid things in front of Karina Yu, arraseo?" Ning teased, holding up a brightly colored sweater.
I shot her a mock glare, "Arraseo,arraseo. It's just...a lot all at once." Ning shrugged, tossing the sweater into the suitcase. "You're going to be fine. Just be yourself, but maybe keep the drama to a minimum for a while."
"I'm not dramatic!" I defended.
Ning scoffed, " Says the girl who hugged my idol while she was crying-" Before she could finish, I threw one of my hoodie on her face.
"Defensive."
"Shut up."
Ning paused for a moment, folding a shirt slowly before looking up at me with a heavier expression. "Have you heard about...Yeonjun?"
My body automatically tensed.
Yesterday...
I saw the look in his eyes.
I know I stood up for Karina but the whole time I was there...I can feel his rage...
but it doesn't stopped myself to feel mine too.
I don't know what took over me, all I know is that he hitted a nerve on me as I saw how he ravaged Karina's neck.
How he forced himself to her.
As for the video he's talking about, I did not watch it.
I can't.
Not when Karina's...
"Yeah... I heard. It's so sudden." I look down my hands, tiny crescent shaped bruises was formed from how tight my fist curled.
"I can't stop thinking about it. After everything-he... took his own life. It's shocking, but maybe not entirely surprising given all the pressure."
I shook the thoughts in my head. "It's just so tragic. I never thought it would end like that."
The subject dropped and we settled in stillness.
As she helped me fold and pack my clothes, the reality settled in. I had to be ready to move out immediately, to live in the same building as Karina.
Unexpected.
Just last week she's glaring and being harsh towards me and now-
It was strange, but I reminded myself that this was for the best.
"Thanks for helping me with this Ning," I said quietly.
She smiled warmly. "Of course. You're not alone in this Min."