The 13: We All Start As Strangers

By Aaliyah S

Rockfield High University is one of Seoul’s most prestigious educational institutes, where people of different ethnicities enroll to make their dreams come true. But since June 1, 2015, women in their twenties have started going missing. Seoul’s streets are no longer safe, and walking late at night is prohibited.

Aria Heart is nineteen, half-American, and carefree. She’s cute, friendly, and mostly careless of her surroundings and belongings. She misplaces her diary somewhere, and even though Aria isn’t worried, her best friend plans a break-in at the university just to get it back. They never could have forseen the effects of their actions.

Detective Oh Yejun is a criminal-catching prodigy. He begins his time at Rockfield High University by studying the cases of the missing girls but soon progresses to another case that leaves him completely baffled. How are the missing women related? What does Aria Heart have to do with it, and can Yejun make sense of the seeming chaos before it’s too late?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu Publishing Services
• Release date: Oct 26, 2016
• ISBN: 9781483459509

Book preview

The 13

We All Start

as Strangers

AALIYAH .S

Copyright © 2016 Aaliyah Salia.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted by any means—whether auditory, graphic, mechanical, or electronic—without written permission of both publisher and author, except in the case of brief excerpts used in critical articles and reviews. Unauthorized reproduction of any part of this work is illegal and is punishable by law.

ISBN: 978-1-4834-5949-3 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4834-5951-6 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4834-5950-9 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2016916719

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Lulu Publishing Services rev. date: 10/20/2016

Contents

Acknowledgements

Prologue

Episode 1 A helping hand

Episode 2 Caught

Episode 3 Capturing the moment

Episode 4 China Town

Episode 5 No one dares inject her

Episode 6 The Chase

Episode 7 Lost and Found

Episode 8 An Angel in disguise

Episode 9 Blabbermouth

Episode 10 Tteokbokki

Episode 11 Oh Yejun

Episode 12 A brother to cry on

Episode 12.5 The Missing victims

Episode 13 Birthday Party aside

Episode 14 The rise of the 13

Episode 15 Bird’s View

Episode 16 First and Last

Episode 17 Although successful…

Episode 18 Survive

Episode 19 Flashback

Episode 20 Leon

Episode 21 Guilt

Episode 22 Twisted

Episode 22.5 An inkling

Episode 23 Back to Flashback

Episode 24 7:11 PM

Episode 25 The 13

Episode 25.5 The Case of the Missing Organs

Episode 26 Hello Bloom

Episode 26.5 So close yet so far

Episode 27 Hello Nate

Episode 27.5 July 9th

Episode 28 Something shiny under his feet

Episode 29 Hello Chris

Episode 29.5 Second Chance

Episode 30 Hello Dean

Episode 31 Not so cold anymore

Episode 32 True lies

Episode 33 Discernible

Episode 33.5 Conference call

Episode 34 Hello Jake

Episode 35 Save me Hyung

Episode 36 Surprise!

Episode 37 Endure

Episode 38 What’s already written will come to pass

Episode 39 Pinch of salt

Episode 40 Reasoning

Episode 41 Confession

Episode 42 Culprit? Or not

Episode 43 Never judge a person by their personality

Episode 44 Warning

Episode 44.5 Trust

Episode 45 Don’t go

Episode 46 Important matter

Episode 47 Kindle

Episode 48 Hello Thieves

Episode 48.5 Locked

Episode 49 No regrets

Episode 50 Fifty percent

Episode 51 With each passing day

Episode 51.5 The morning of the Ball

Episode 52 Confessions of Handsome men

Episode 53 Dead

Episode 54 You reap what you sow

Epilogue

About The Author

To my dearest daddy.

All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible. – T.E. Lawrence.

Acknowledgements

I want to thank my Mommy and Daddy for believing in me when I said that I wanted to be an Author.

Thank you Zainab, my sister, for sharing your ideas, thoughts and creating the life of my characters with me, for staying up until late while I was writing and for giving me inspiration and motivation.

Thank you Crispus, my brother, for filling in the missing parts of the story, and for having confidence in me.

Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa, for supporting and encouraging me and making the best chicken curry when I was feeling low.

Thank you Ginger, my precious cat for being my best companion when I had the writer’s block.

And lastly, thank you LULU for working with me and for being the best publisher.

Prologue

The sun has long risen from its bed and Seoul has awoken with it.

People rushing everywhere for work, some stuck in traffic, some getting yelled at by their bosses and some obviously still in bed cause their alarm hasn’t rung yet.

9 am is always the time to start work, for offices, for restaurants, for shops and also for banks.

A black van was parked in an alley opposite the Han bank.

In position, waiting for a command, Dean reported from the van.

I stood opposite the vehicle with the cup of coffee and a Celebrity times.

Dean this is not an army operation, Jean remarked.

I’m trying to get into the act man.

In a bunny costume even though I told you not to.

This was all I had, besides, it’s sentimental.

Oh, yeah?

Uh-huh.

Guys I’m hungry… Kyle reported. and, In position.

Did Jake and Bloom reach their destination? he asked.

I don’t think so; they haven’t reported yet, Jean answered.

Chris, can I ask you something?

Shoot.

Why aren’t you in any costume? Didn’t we all agree on wearing one?

I am wearing a costume. I am me.

Leon scoffed, "You’re weird Hyung, sometimes I regret talking to you."

Akira where are you? I can’t see you?

I’m with Kyle, near the gift shop.

Why haven’t they reported yet, Jean mumbled.

Hello-guys. We heard a faint wheezing sound. It’s Jake. Finally, in position. He breathed heavily.

Bloom here. In position. He panted as well.

Did you guys get chased by a dog or something? I asked, flipping the newspaper pages.

Scarier than that, we were on the brink of getting caught by the guards but luckily we didn’t so- Jake started and paused.

It was all his fault. He overreacted. Bloom interrupted.

I did not. I didn’t even know he was a guard. Jake argued.

Even if you didn’t, you didn’t have to just ask away questions regarding the corporation.

I thought he was a normal guy walking around.

With a gun in his back pocket? How dumb can you be?

I wasn’t thinking then-

Yea, yea, please set things up now, we are running out of time.

Stop fighting like cats and dogs, Dean commented.

We are not fighting, we are arguing, Jake said.

Isn’t it one and the same?

It’s not.

Guys, it’s 9:15, I’m going in, I said and walked to the bank entrance.

I tersely looked ahead and noticed Kyle looking my way.

He was staring at me, and for some reason, that was enough to break the nervousness I was feeling.

Walking inside the bank, I scanned the square-sized offices one by one.

Help desk, cash withdrawal, Insurance, Information services, Loans, which one should I go to? I asked softly.

Your wish, Jean said.

Hm, I will choose randomly anyways, I said and headed to the nearest counter. Loans.

Okay, Bunny, Ninja, Doctor, Prince and..? Jake paused.

A blood-sucking Vampire, Leon answered.

Right…The five of you know what to do right? You go inside the bank at strictly 10:15, and then you know what to do. Jake reminded deliberately.

Wow, thanks Jake. That was helpful. Leon blurted.

And I have successfully hacked into the street cameras and deleted the previous day’s recordings and disrupted them for the time being, Jake informed.

So whatever will happen will not be recorded right? Chris asked.

Right. The operators will try to get back their cameras but you know—no one can defeat the master of hacking. He chuckled embarrassingly.

Indeed.

Why did you delete the previous videos though? Fran asked.

So that there wouldn’t be any doubts on days and evidence and whatsoever relating to today’s robbery, Bloom answered.

I didn’t get it, Kyle said.

When did you ever, Jean added.

How much longer do I need to listen to him? I asked as the loan teller held me off for a few seconds to pick up an important call.

A few more minutes to be precise, Jake said.

That’s not precise at all.

Why isn’t the guard leaving? Akira asked.

Huh?

Oh yeah, wasn’t he supposed to keep the ground clear? Dean asked.

It might be cause of the traffic. The crowds too much, he answered doubtfully.

What do we do now? Fran asked.

We wait.

It’s already 9:45, Jean reported.

What’s the position of the guard? Bloom asked.

He’s probably waiting for a way to get through the crowd, Dante responded.

Hm..

What if he doesn’t leave by 10?

We probably have to commence plan B then. Jake voiced.

Plan B? You sure?

We might not have a choice. Leon sighed.

Wait, what is plan B? We didn’t discuss any plan B; why didn’t anyone tell me the plan B? Kyle complained.

Kyle, Plan B wasn’t and isn’t supposed to happen, but like Leon said, we might not have a choice.

So you knew about this? Why didn’t you tell me ?! He yelled.

I didn’t know it. Dante uttered.

So didn’t I, I said before the man looked up from his paper and smiled at me.

Oh. Then it’s fine. I’m cool with it.

I looked at my watch, 9:50.

With a smile and a formal; thank you, I got up and walked out of the bank.

Okay, those forty minutes were the most boring minutes of my life, I said and glanced at Kyle.

You did well Aria. He said, flicking his thumb.

I did, didn’t I? What do I get?

What do you want?

Aria, Jake called out.

All right, I’m going in again. I walked back inside.

Careful, Dean said.

Good luck.

Take care.

Dudes, it’s not a war, I’m just going to the washroom. I sighed, entering the cubicle having the vent right above it.

So this is it, huh? In another twenty minutes, we are going to become criminals. Dean said.

Not really, Fran said.

But we are breaking into the bank so-, Leon remarked.

We are outlaws. I threw the cylinder inside the vent.

That’s the word. Yes. Bloom agreed.

Chris, you know what to do right? Jake asked.

Don’t remind me.

Got it.

Guys, 9:58… Jean reported anxiously.

All right, let’s go, Nate said.

You guys ready? I sat on the closed toilet seat.

Always.

Kyle, Akira, Jean.

On it. They yelled in unison.

I began hearing footsteps coming from outside the cubicle, so I decided to keep quiet.

Excuse me, good sir, would you like to try our fish cakes? Kyle recited, momentarily, noises and voices came to a halt.

It’s a type of anesthetic. Jean broke the silence.

Man he’s heavy.

Should we drop him here?

It’s 10:09, you guys ready? Jake asked.

we are.

10:10.

Ah, my heart is racing fast.

It’s all right Fran. Take deep breaths. Dante said.

After all, we are doing it for Rem.

10:11. The doc reported again.

Aria, what’s the position? Nate asked.

How am I supposed to know? I’m stuck inside this cube until 15. I replied.

The gas must have worked by now, though.

10:12.

Let’s do this! I won’t get scared this time! Dean screamed.

Hopefully.

Three minutes to go and the tension lingered between the twelve of us.

10:14.

One minute more guys, Bloom mentioned.

This one minute is longer than I imagined. he nervously laughed.

It’s going to be all right. Just go with the plan. Just go with the plan. Jean slowly said.

All right!

10:15!

Guys. Nate called out, Let’s do this.

EPISODE 1

A helping hand

Dear Sam, I want to do something crazy, something no one has ever done except in movies. I want to experience life, live it to my fullest.

Let me tell you what all I want to do.

1) Rob a bank.

2) Hijack a plane.

3) Kidnap someone.

4) Break someone out of prison.

For now, let’s just leave it at that. Maybe someday I will be the world’s best-known criminal.

The supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Aria.

Did the word become too small?

Anyways, I just hope no one reads this diary ha, ha.

They would think I’m curazy and believe me, being called non-compos mentis just before graduation, doesn’t sound like a good idea, right?

Aria. the class president is calling you. Come quick Shouted my alter ego, Selly.

Coming! I closed the diary, quickly clicking the pen.

Shhhh. Shushed the boy sitting opposite me in the library. He glared at me like I just ate his cheese- burger. Then he went back to reading a book called, It’s not a fairytale.

That book seemed appealing, though. I might read it the next time If I get some free time in my hands.

Sorry, I whispered. I gathered all my books and shuffled over to Selly.

Why is she calling me, anyways? I asked. I handed her a few books without notice.

I don’t know. She said she needs to talk to you about something.

Ugh, why me? Does she only see me in the whole damn school?

Maybe, I always had the feeling that she has had a grudge on you since your first day of university.

A grudge?

Yes, don’t you remember your very first day here? Most of the students gathered around you to chit-chat.

Isn’t that normal for everyone?

Unfortunately, it’s not, you had this amazing aura surrounding you that somewhat attracted people, like bugs, attracted to light.

Selly actually kinda over-exaggerated that part, because as far as I remember, fewer than a dozen people came to talk to me.

And what kind of aura did I actually have?

You know, the other-worldly kind since you’re half-American.

Ha, ha Unexceptional. I dead-panned.

Exceptional.

I disagree.

Whatever. I just think that you are the coolest person ever.

Uh, Sel, you can stop now. I’m flattered, though.

Selly scoffed and caught a peek at her watch, making her suddenly halt in the middle of the hallway.

Shoot— She muttered and looked at me puppy-eyed. That’s when you need to notice what Sel has to say.

Fine, give me back the books and go do your volunteer work, lass.

Selly, with utter sympathy in her eyes, placed the books on top of my little pile, mouthed a sorry and ran off upstairs.

I began my lonely journey to the staff room, which felt like miles afar because of the heavy load I carried.

I should have known that University meant having gigantic textbooks and a president calling you every single day to do some work or the other. Instead, I would have actually home schooled. Now that I think about it, it would have been a really good idea.

On my way, I noticed a girl and a boy—my seniors— getting all cozy near the open window. The boy heroically draped his leather jacket over the girl’s bare shoulders even though there was no breeze at all.

While passing them I said, Wow, way to go. Look she’s blushing. Then I quickened my speed before they could respond.

Do they come here just to get all lovey-dovey?

Shameless people, I tell ya. Definitely not my type.

After all the walking, I saw the board signifying the staff room.

And Aria Heart takes first place in reaching the staff room! I loudly and proudly shouted. Pity that no one applauded for me.

Congrats. A voice suddenly blurted from behind me.

Confused, I looked behind and saw a triad casually walking past me.

Uh, Thank you? I responded, but they seemed to have paid no attention to me and were gossiping away something about football. Typical, I would say.

With a quick sigh, I stopped in front of the staff room and lightly kicked the door, hoping someone would eventually open it. However, after waiting for ages (almost three minutes I think), no one opened the door.

I kicked again, this time, a little harder and louder and waited.

Excuse me? May I help you with something? A manly voice abruptly asked from behind me.

Oh. I turned around and looking down on me was a tall guy with a broad pearly white smile, apparently showing all his thirty-two teeth, and with a refined jaw. He wore a shirt, blazer, and jeans. The perfect fit of nerd glasses protected his eyes, dark brown hair was styled in a short, spiky manner, and his sideburns were attractively in perfect shape.

Um. It would be great if you just opened this door. I responded.

It would be my pleasure. He said and gestured me to move aside.

I slid over a little to the left and watched him assiduously open the door.

Abra-ca-dabra. He sang and with a swift wave of his hand, signaled me to walk inside first. A real gentleman.

Thank you very much. I thanked thankfully and stepped inside the room filled with busy students and teachers, absorbed in their respective work.

Do you need any help with the books? The nerdy asked from the rear.

No, I’m fine. Thank you, though. I said without looking back. I searched for Mila, the president of the student council.

You sure? He asked again, a little louder.

Yes, I’m sure. Do you want me to broadcast it now?

All right then, as you wish. He marched past me to a group of teachers who were having their lunch.

Mila was nowhere to be found, so I walked over to a desk where Ara, a student council member, was looking at a bunch of papers, clipping them one at a time.

Hey, Ara have you seen a girl who has a really annoying face that sometimes you just feel like slapping her with a chair? I set my hulking books down with a thud.

You mean the president you so much abominate?

Precisely.

I think she is in class 2 decorating it for the upcoming inter-school meeting

Inter-school meeting? well, whatever. Not that I care anyways. Do you know why she called me?

No idea.

Okay. Guess I’ll go and ask her myself. Pray for her would you?

Pray what?

That I don’t kill her today. I chuckled and took back my burdensome books.

I will keep in mind to do so. Ara laughed back and quickly passed the pile of papers to Won Jae, our senior and the best basketball player in this university. He has been a council member for 2 years straight without backing down because he quotes, What we do in life, echoes in eternity. I still have no idea what this has to do with being on the council but I think I should let him do what he wants to do. No judging whatsoever.

All right then. See you later, babe. I shambled towards the door.

Babe? What happened to your ‘sophistication’? Ara asked, since according to her, I don’t usually call anyone that word.

I laughed. sometimes we just gotta show the middle finger to sophistication. I walked out before the door closed after Ruta, the laziest person on the student council, entered the room while coolly eating Pepero.

Thanks, I mumbled to her and lumbered towards class 2 situated on the second floor.

Now off to another mighty journey. Great, just what I needed. I mused and carefully climbed the stairs with difficulty.

And they couldn’t have built a damn lift in this huge university. Seriously, what was the owner of this Uni even thinking?

Petrik Quinn was a fitness freak. I heard a familiar girl’s voice and looked up.

And who might he be? I asked but kept on climbing until I reached the last and the final stair. I swear I felt like I just won an Olympic medal.

The owner of this school and an enthusiastic architect, Hehet answered.

She is the most inventive and perspicacious person I have ever seen in my entire nineteen years of life. And actually the cutest. Plus, she is planning to become a fashion designer so that she can pioneer new ways to wear a Hijab. Well, that’s what she said to me when we first met.

Ah, thank you for letting me know Hehet. I smiled and took a deep, long, victorious breath.

My delectation, She gleefully responded, Do you need any help with the books? You seem like you are about to faint away if you carry them any longer.

Let me be honest, I do need help. I should have let that guy help me before but I won’t lose this chance now. Hehet swiftly took a couple of books from the top.

Thank me later. Where are you headed, anyway?

Class 2.

Aha let’s go then. She began walking in front of me, delightedly, I followed.

For a second I felt like she came down from heaven just for me.

Aria, have you ever heard about underground betting? Hehet asked out of the blue.

Underground betting? I’m not sure.

Well, the subject is not publicized yet but I have heard that some really illegal things have been going on down there.

What kind of Illegal things?

Not sure, but rumors say ‘betting for life’.

Wow, really? that’s something.

I know right. I wonder how the underworld would be like! She exclaimed, stopping in front of our destination.

I don’t think it’s a place for innocent people. I signaled her to give me back my books.

In all probability. She placed the books back and dusted off her hands.

Thank you very much, Angel, I don’t know what I would have done without you.

No problem Aria. I will leave then, gotta dash to the art room.

All right then, thank you again.

Hehet responded me back with a smile. Before leaving for the 3rd floor, she waved at me vigorously, followed by a quick flying kiss.

And she gets sweet every time. I giggled. I slid open the Japanese-style door with my foot and scanned the whole classroom post-haste. There was someone on the ladder, hanging colorful balloons on the ceiling.

The wide open window lets in a cool breeze and dried leaves inside the room.

I trudged towards a desk near to the ladder and set my books with a bang.

Oh, my! Mila screamed. She unexpectedly lost her balance on the uppermost step of the ladder.

Whoa there. I quickly dashed a step towards her and stretched out both my arms.

She tightly closed her eyes and slept on my hands like a mannequin. Her hands raised high up in the air as if surrendering herself to the world.

My hands are really cramped right now, and I would appreciate it if you come back from the dead now, I said and waited.

Am I not dead? Mila muttered and winked open her eye.

I wish you were. I carefully pushed her up and stood in place until she descended the ladder.

Thank you, Aria. She breathed deeply.

No need for formalities between us. You’re welcome, though.

I pulled out a chair from a desk and collapsed on it. So, why did you call me? Miss me much?

Right I called you…uh, because—wait a minute, let me calm myself first. Mila wheezed and plonked herself on the table.

Take your time. In the meantime, I took out my phone from my jacket.

[Two new messages from Broyo]

Broyo - Will be coming home late, so eat dinner outside okay?

Broyo – Oh, and switch on the heater before you go to sleep, the water is running cold these days.

You should be more careful Mil. It was so careless of you to fall.

Well, I was careful until someone made an abrupt entrance that startled the hell out of me.

So this has become my fault huh? cool.

Okay, I’m all right now. Let’s get to talking.

I quickly sent an OK to my brother and glanced at her.

I called you here because you have been skipping the council meetings Aria.

So?

So? You know it’s obligatory for council members to attend the meetings.

It is? I didn’t know that.

Yes, it is and that’s why as a punishment, you are going to become a mascot for the Butterfly Pirates, as of tomorrow.

What?! I jolted up from my seat.

You heard me.

Punishment? Mascot? Are you talking to me honey?

Okay, first of all, I didn’t know that it was obligatory to attend the meetings and, second, someone could have at least informed me beforehand.

Do I look like I’m talking to a ghost?

Why didn’t you tell me before I joined this freaking council?

You should have read the terms and conditions before signing for it.

Terms and conditions? seriously? I dead-panned.

Mila shrugged and ambled towards the window, I followed.

And I thought this council was supposed to be like a VIP thing?

Uh, Aria, if you were just a little intelligent you would have known that it’s the total opposite.

I wish I was too. I sighed and gestured Mila to scoot over a bit.

Nudging her shoulders, I asked, Can’t you cut me some slack? and winked, I also saved you.

Well, you did save me. So, instead of thirty days, I will make it twenty-nine days for you.

Wow, aren’t you generous?

Yes, I am, aren’t I? Thank me.

Thank you? I would better throw a chair at you, at least I won’t regret it.

That’s a little violent don’t you think?

You bet? Anyways, what mascot do I need to become now? A Butterfly or a Pirate?

Huh, so you agree to do it? That’s new, I thought you would fight your way through justice.

Nevertheless, it’s my fault for skipping the meetings so, yeah. I turned around and supported myself to the window sill.

All right bimbo, whatever you say. I think a pirate would suit you more.

You think so? Cause the last time I checked, I came out of a pupa.

Ha, ha funny, Mila said, simultaneously looking at her watch, but soon her expression turned aghast. Damn, I’m late! She quickly turned around and grabbed her bag from the teacher’s desk.

Uh, hello? Isn’t it rude to abandon a person?

Sorry, but I have to meet someone now. Aria, can you just clean this mess up a little, please? Much obliged. She dashed out the room before I could stop her.

And there she goes passing over her unfinished work to me.

For seconds, I stared at the untidy room expressionless.

All right let’s get started. I walked over to the packet of balloons and strings and picked it up, thereupon, placing them onto the desk.

There. Done. I proudly dusted off my hands, picked up the heavy books and left the classroom.

Aria, Aria, Aria, Aria! A known voice approached me from the side, instantly making me look over. And saw Gin zooming in on me.

He and I have a, well, you can say a brother-sister relation since he’s younger than me and I kind of act like his big sister.

Gin is helpful, shy, quiet and a little unpopular with the girls, but once you get to know him, he can be the dauntless person you have ever met.

What is it Ginie? I proceeded towards him.

Me and a couple others are going to a karaoke party tonight, wanna join? He gradually slowed down.

Sure why not, what time?

Eight, at Kim Dong-Sun karaoke house.

Got it. I nodded.

Great, see you later then. he turned around and jogged back from where he came from.

I headed to class two-four to pick up my bag when I noticed a group of four unknown guys approaching my way.

One of them was walking backward while kicking his legs in the air as though showing someone how to kick a ball.

So, you hit with your laces, then flick your ankle up which causes the ball to go up.

I kept on walking straight ahead, thinking the guy walking in reverse will shift after anticipating me.

Uh-huh. One of the four guys kept on repeating. I can tell from his face that he is not enjoying the soccer lecture at all.

Keep your ankle locked toe down all the way through-

Unfortunately, I was wrong. The guy did turn around but his timing was a little off.

A slight bump was all it took to make my books bow down to gravity.

Sorry! I said, because, in the end, it was my fault for not shifting across the wall. I began picking up my books.

No, I’m sorry. The guy bent down.

It’s all right.

Here, let me help. He collected the few books which fell on his side and neatly piled them one by one, lastly giving it a quick smack on the ground.

I gathered my books as well and looked at him.

I observed the three guys behind him and noticed them staring down at me vacantly.

Thank-

Oh, Aria! He said wide eyed.

You know me?

Uh, yeah. I sit right beside you in class.

You do?

Yes. He sighed.

Oh. Well, thank you- I stared at him confusedly.

Fran.

Yes, Fran. Thank you.

How can you not know me? We’re in the same class since half a year.

Sorry, I said because I didn’t have any answer to his question. Not that I ignored him, I just neglected him. I think.

Besides, it’s not like I know each and everyone in this university. It would take me years to remember them all. Believe me.

HEART! HEART! A girl’s voice screamed my last name

HEART! HEART! COME HERE!

One sec. I gestured the guy and turned around.

Lao Lin was strenuously waving her hand and excitedly jumping around in sync.

WHAT IS IT LIN? I yelled.

JUST COME HERE QUICK! I NEED TO SHOW YOU SOMETHING HEART!

LIN, FOR THE NTH TIME, DON’T CALL ME HEART!

QUICK, QUICK, QUICK, YOU WILL MISS THIS! Lin impatiently jumped on her toes, letting out tiny shrieks in installments. Meanwhile, the trio behind Fran bounced their heads side to side, listening to me and Lin scream at each other.

COMING! I finally looked at Fran, signaled him to give me back my books and got up with the help of no-one.

HEART, IF YOU MISS THIS, YOU WILL REGRET IT LATER!

Uh, so Fran, since you know where I am sitting, can you please do me a solid?

What kind of solid?

Can you please keep these books on my desk?

Um-

HEART IF YOU DON’T COME RIGHT NOW, YOU AND I ARE BREAKING UP!

Sure, I will do it, he said and heartily took the books from me.

Thanks a bunch buddy. I owe you one. I patted his shoulders and jogged towards the feverish Lin.

What is it? I stopped beside her.

Look over there. She whispered and pointed her index finger out the window.

I quickly looked to where she was pointing but saw nothing. Absolutely nothing. No monster, no leviathan, no goblins. Just a plain sky filled with white pigeons.

Uh, if this is some kind of a joke Lin, it’s definitely funny. I let out an emotionless laugh and glimpsed at her annoyingly.

No! look over there, on that tree branch! She whispered again, stomping her feet.

I looked again where she told me to and spotted two birds fighting with each other.

Surprise me, I commented.

Heart, look how cute they are! Omg, I need to record this and upload it on the net! Lin promptly took out her phone and began recording the weird bird fight. I changed my expression from annoying to scowling.

And you were gonna break our friendship just for this insignificant thing?

"Heart, this is one of the things you need to see before you die!"

Lin, I looked at her hopelessly. You need to go back home and take some rest okay? Just, try not to think too much about your bucket-list hm? I hugged her.

huh? she unconsciously hugged me back.

I need to go now Linnie, so, catch you later. A sigh escaped my lips as I pulled back from the hug.

Heart, why do I feel that you are really, really, really, disappointed in me?

No, I’m not. I’m just worried about your future. I softly smiled.

What about my future?

Heed my words Lin. Never date a guy who doesn’t appreciate your craziness. I quoted and turned around to leave.

What? Heart I think you need rest. You’re talking weirdly today.

You think? Man, I did have a hard day. I slumped my shoulders, looked back at her and waved weakly.

She hesitantly waved back at me but went back to recording. She sure is a conscientious girl.

My stomach started to growl, making me think of what I should eat after going home. Though, I couldn’t choose between two things; Sushi or Rice cakes.

My thoughts were then distracted by a phone call from Selly.

Please tell me you are done with your voluntary work because I am super hungry, I spoke quickly and waited for her answer.

Bad news, I won’t be going home with you.

Damn Sel.

Sorry Aria. You can leave now, don’t wait for me.

Not planning to actually.

Good, see you tomorrow then?

Yea.

She disconnected the call quicker than I thought she would.

I did feel a slight betrayal but it’s not her fault either that she loves to offer herself to the university.

I noticed that Fran was still blathering with his buds.

A sense of pity rushed inside me when I saw that he was still holding my bulky books.

Man, I’m selfish. I reflected on myself and jogged over to him.

Hey, Fran! You can give me back my books, thanks a lot.

No, it’s okay. I can drop these on your desk for you. He said.

I’m going back to class, so just give them to me. I insisted.

I’m going to class too, so let me help you; besides, these books are heavy right?

I can take care of myself.

I never said you can’t.

Oh, just shut up and go already. The guy beside Fran yelled annoyingly.

Fran elbowed him and smiled at me. Let’s go? He asked and I nodded after giving the guy with deep dimples, a black look. As a generous and high-minded person, I took a few books from Fran and walked beside him.

I’m sorry for not noticing you. I apologized, because no matter how you look at it, people will get mad if you don’t notice them. And the fact that I didn’t pay attention to him must have made him sore.

Nah, it’s all right.

You sure? cause if I had been ignored, I wouldn’t feel that great.

I’m sure, and it’s also not new to me that people tend not to notice me.

Really?

Yea, I’m pretty quiet in class and a little shy to begin talking to others.

Then, how are you able to talk to me now?

Hm, I don’t know.

Maybe, I might be someone special, you know like they show in the movies. Soul mate.

Soul mate?

Uh-huh.

Right. Soul mate. Why not. Fran scoffed.

What? You might not know this but this is how soul mate’s meet. Accidentally, coincidentally and unexpectedly.

Whatever you say.

"HYUNG WAIT UP!" Someone called him out from behind. Immediately, we came to a sudden halt.

An olive-skinned guy, A little taller than Fran and me rushed towards us.

The cap he wore, fell down without warning, however, he swiftly picked it up with a quick high kick and wore it backward. Talented, and I was very much impressed.

He slammed his arms on Fran’s shoulders as we unconsciously began walking again.

What are you doing here? Fran asked.

"What? Can’t I be here? Eommaya, do you need some time alone with her?" He winked and prodded him. His jaws were too chiseled to not take notice, his nose was etched perfectly, and his eyes had that alluring gaze, one who would be called a lady killer, could have.

Shut up Kyle.

Anyways, nice to meet you girl. He said looking at me from behind Fran.

Nice to meet you too, guy.

Fran stopped and slid open the door to our classroom, when just then, we began hearing chaotic noises from inside.

CATCH HIM!

SU JIN, CATCH HIM IF YOU LOVE HIM!

NO, JUST KILL HIM AND TAKE BACK YOUR BOOK!

Did someone just scream Kill him?" Kyle asked as Fran stepped inside the room.

I think she said, ‘kiss him’. And right when I was about to follow Fran, someone bumped him, which made him stagger his way backward.

I wish I had the ability to stop time because falling two times in a day is really not my style.

You okay?! Oppa worriedly asked. Well, his name is Edward, but since he is six months older than me, mom insisted on calling him Oppa, no matter what, but I hate to say it. Moreover, it’s already been sixteen years and I’m still not used to calling him that.

Do we look fine? I asked. Yet again the books from my and Fran’s hands fell. The lucky one, olive guy was still standing with a try to hold your laughter face.

I thought I would ask him what was funny, but I had other things on my mind. Like the feeling that I keep bowing to everyone who is in front of me today. Why don’t I just stay on the floor instead, let all who wants to bump me, bump.

Really sorry! Edward said, scrunching up his nose.

To tell the truth, he is actually my childhood friend. We’re neighbors.

He is kind, at times sweet, intelligent, strong. All the qualities a guy would have, but, there is one thing which annoys me the most. His attitude towards me.

He acts cold whenever he is around me and that just drives me insane because, right when another girl comes up to talk to him he gets all sweet and vulnerable. I have asked him a dozen times why he does that, but he never answers me point blank. Instead, a smack on my head from him is all it takes to shut me up.

It’s all right Ed. Fran uttered and got up while picking up the last of my textbooks.

Yes Ed, It’s all right. I’m all good. I added sarcastically.

I don’t care about you. He dead-panned but looked at Fran with apologetic eyes. Sorry dude. He gave him a quick hug.

After Fran patted his shoulders in assurance that he’s all right, he dashed back into the classroom to play whatever he was playing before.

See? That’s how he treats me. I wish I could just poke my finger in his cold eyes someday.

As I got up without anyone’s help. Again. I suddenly felt an urgency.

Sure, I could go keep the books on my desk like a bullet out of a gun, but this urgency seemed too urgent to be patient.

Uh, Fran. Could you just go on ahead with the books and keep them on my desk? I speedily asked.

But we are already here, aren’t we? You can keep the books by-

Please! just leave them at my desk and go. Can’t you do that for me? I placed the books on top of the other ones in Fran’s hand.

Thank you! I said before he could stop me and ran towards the washroom.

The thing about human beings is that, even if the world is about to end, we need to pee before we die. That’s how it is, and that’s how it’s going to be.

I washed my hands, dried them with the paper towel, gave one last look at myself in the mirror and got out, straight away heading back to my class.

I saw a few people already leaving in pairs or large groups, except Kang Jae, who was taking a nap on his respective desk, careless on what is going on in this world.

Surprisingly, my books were neatly placed on my desk, but there was no sign of Fran.

I felt grateful for him, so I took out a sticky note from my bag and wrote Thank you! If you need any help, I will be there for you. And stuck on the desk next to me because he did say he sat beside me.

I hope he sees this.

I threw my backpack on my shoulders and walked out the room after a couple of my classmates left, gossiping about who was the most handsome in our class. I think a guy name, Pi Jong Yeol won the poll.

I wore my helmet and sat on my motorbike.

The first place I went to was a Sushi house right around the university. Ate a few plates of California rolls then went to the supermarket to buy me some junkies.

Black soda and potato chips are always a must on my list.

Lastly, I grabbed a box of doughnuts and went back to my humble home.

The house is mostly empty because Dad is always on his duty, mom is currently busy, my brother works until late at night and although my sister comes home- let’s say around nine, nine-thirty, she goes straight to her room and locks herself up.

So, basically, I become a lone wolf until morning.

Although everyone says that freedom is everything, it’s really not. I think having freedom is just running away from your family.

It’s not that great having one in my opinion.

My mom once said that Freedom is two types; one is good and the other is bad.

You get started with the good one, however, gradually the bad one comes up and tickles your nose.

You try to avoid it a few times, but eventually, it seeps in your blood and the one good freedom you had will turn into a bad one.

Technically, the moral of the story is, Don’t rely on freedom too much, it won’t take you anywhere.

I still have no idea why mom said that to me, but I decided to keep that in mind and live my life.

I opened my huge packet of chips and soda and slumped on my couch with the sixth episode of World Cop in front of me.

It’s just a silly series of a cop who prevents crimes. The same old story, yet I watch it because I’m up-to-date with all the best ones, you name it.

Another one of the series is The Better Pills to Swallow. That story goes around a girl who gets dozens of colorful pills, which have some kind of magic or something, and like a side effect to it, she gets all these super human powers. The twist is, she doesn’t use it for the good use. Instead, she robs a bank, steals art collections, breaks into a millionaire’s mansion and all that stuff. The show was interesting until she began to realize that whatever she was doing was deleterious and disgraceful. The show is still ongoing, but I have no interest in it until she starts to get bad again. Sometimes I wish I had those pills because fulfilling my wishes would just be a piece of delicious cake.

Tossing a chip in my mouth and then sipping soda, I placed my right leg on the couch’s armrest and the other on the glass table.

Right when the World Cop was deducing who the criminal was, who stole a very expensive antique vase from the world’s 1st billionaire, my phone vibrated a couple of times.

I could ignore it and, as a matter of fact, I would, but the last time I turned a deaf ear to my messages, dad got really upset because he messaged me to buy a bar of soap before he came home and I didn’t. At the end of the day, he took away my phone for a whole month and trust me, I don’t want to survive another of these months without my buddy.

In double-quick time, I checked my phone.

[One new message from Waifu]

Waifu - Aria u have the Legends concert tickets with u, right?

Me - What concert tickets?

Waifu - The one I gave u before lunch.

Me - Oh yea…I have them.

Waifu - U sure? pls check again.

Me - Sel I have them, don’t worry.

Waifu - Did u check it?

Me - Don’t you trust me?

Waifu - I don’t dat’s y get up from your lazy couch and check.

Me - Fine…wait how did u know I’m sitting on the couch!?

Waifu - Don’t you always?

Me - True. Okay, hold on a sec.

I nonchalantly got up and went to my room.

I unzipped my backpack and started searching for it. I remember gingerly placing the tickets in my diary so that I won’t forget it.

However, I got a mini-heart attack when I found out that my diary was not in my frickin bag.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no I flipped my bag upside down and gave it a violent shake.

Everything fell down, my pen, my books, a few notes of 1000 and 5000 won, and some weird gifts I vaguely remember having, but no diary.

Where did I put it? I searched my room for it. The drawers, the cupboards, under my bed, behind the curtains and lastly, in the bathroom because you never know when or where the diary ends up at.

Unfortunately, my luck seemed to have run out.

Me - Uh...Sel…

Waifu - Pls tell me u have them.

Me - I do.

Waifu - Oh thank goodness.

Me - I mean I did have it…

Waifu - What?! Aria don’t tell me u lost it!

Me - Well, I remember keeping them in my diary but I can’t find it anywhere.

Waifu - How can u be so irresponsible Aria?

Me – Sel no need to get so angry at me, the diary must be in my class so we can take it back tomorrow.

Waifu – Ok, y don’t we just do that. Who cares if I miss today’s concert right?

Me – Wait…Is the concert today?

Waifu - U are unbelievable.

Me - I’m sorry Selly!!!

Waifu - Sorry won’t work this time Aria, you have really crossed the limit for being careless! The concert is in 3 hours and if I don’t get to see my bias today you are dead meat.

Me - Waifuuuu don’t say it like that. You’re scaring me!

Waifu - Don’t call me Waifu until you get me those tickets Aria. One job, just one job of keeping those tickets with u until I was finished with my work and u couldn’t even do that.

Me - How many times do I need to apologize to you now?

Waifu - Until I get to see Jung Dong Rim!

I haven’t seen Selly this mad before, maybe, this time, I did become a little reckless, but why do I remember keeping my diary in my backpack-hold on, no… I don’t recall stuffing it inside… oh shit. I am sure as hell a minced meat now.

Me - Sel u still at Uni?

Waifu - No.

Me - Then where r u now?

Unexpectedly, someone rang my doorbell. I quickly ran towards it, assuming it to be my dad because he promised me I would get a surprise today.

However, when I opened the door, a dark aura entered, sending shivers down my spine.

I slowly took back my steps and sprinted back to my couch before the devil could get a hold of me.

ARIA YOU’RE REALLY GOING TO GET IT FROM ME TODAY! Selly leaped behind me.

IT’S NOT MY FAULT, THOUGH! I grabbed the cushion and used it as my shield.

NOT YOUR FAULT? THEN WHOSE IS IT?! She snatched the cushion from me and raised it high to smack me with it.

IT’S YOURS! I yelled.

MINE? AND HOW IS THAT?!

BECAUSE YOU GAVE THEM TO ME! You could have kept it to yourself. I pouted.

Selly grimaced, deciding to herself if she should smack me with the cushion or kill me with a machete.

You’re right, She dropped the cushion on the floor and hopelessly sank on the couch. It’s my fault for even trusting you, right?

Not entirely. I’m sorry Sel. I patted her shoulder and sat beside her.

The Uni must be closed by now so we won’t have a chance to enter it. Now, how am I going to meet my Jung Dong? Those tickets were VIP with limited backstage passes. UGH! even if it was your fault why do I hate myself?

We can always buy more tick-

It’s all sold out.

Then we can always go to their oth-

They won’t have any until six months.

Okay…

Selly totally seemed disappointed in me, and as her one true best friend, I have really let her down this time.

I gotta do something for her. I need to save my friendship and change her opinion on me.

EPISODE 2

Caught

"My beloved Jung. What have I ever done to you that I can’t meet you right now? What power is stopping us from meeting? Wae? Why does my heart ache so badly?" Selly cried. Although I couldn’t see traces of tears in her big wide eyes, I suppose I know how she must be feeling right now. She sees Jung Dong as though he is her one true love no matter how many times I keep telling her that it’s no use thinking that, because he doesn’t know she exists.

Nevertheless, she never paid heed to me and kept on collecting his merchandise like a freak, and trust me; if she ever has to choose between Me or Jung Dong, it’s definitely him.

Selly can you please quiet down? I’m trying to think here. I requested as I turned up the volume of my T.V.

Thinking? You just want to watch the World Cop!

It’s the mid-final episode! I can’t miss it.

Sure, go ahead and watch while I cry over Dong Rim and how I will never be able to meet him because of you. She threw the nearest thing beside her at me. A cushion, most likely painless.

Shh. I gestured her to shush and stuck my gaze on the cop who was about to catch the criminals red-handed.

World Cop you take the lead, we will back you up.

The robbers are inside the bank with hostages, we need to do this carefully.

I have a plan.

what is it Cop?

I will go inside and make a deal with them. They take me as a hostage but leave the others harmless.

No Cop, that’s too risky.

I will have to take this risk. What are we cops for then? We need to save those people inside.

All right. Whatever you say. It’s your choice, just be careful Coppy.

I will. Here, take away my gun, I don’t need it.

That’s daring of him, Selly commented.

World Cop, save those people and make the people of the State’s proud!

Sir, just give me courage.

HANDS UP WHERE I CAN SEE THEM!

All right buddy, calm down. I am unarmed. You can check me.

CHECK HIM!

BOSS HE’S CLEAR!

I want to make a deal with you.

WHAT DEAL?

You take me as a hostage but leave these people out. You don’t need them.

WHO SAID I DON’T NEED THEM?

I know you don’t. They haven’t done anything, so please just, Let. Them. Go.

WHO ARE YOU TO ORDER ME AROUND HUH?

Mate, I’m giving you one last chance to accept this deal.

OR ELSE WHAT?

5 seconds. Deal or no deal?

WHAT ARE YOU GUYS LOOKING AT? KILL HIM!

You guys should really learn how to deal.

The World Cop began fighting the robbers with his bare hands. He flew to kick them, he used objects to stun them, plus, no matter how many bullets they are using to shoot him, none of them went through his body. A few minutes later, the fight ended and the robbers were arrested. The scary thing was the main boss threatened the World Cop that he would come back again for him and I don’t think he was joking. The episode ended with the World Cop Being World famous for continually catching criminals all around the world, but the scene doesn’t end yet. After the credits, the director cleverly showed the Boss robber, breaking out of the prison. The End.

Coppy, you better watch out for him, I remarked, turning down the volume.

So, where were we? I looked at Selly, but she abruptly snatched the remote from my hand and turned the volume up.

It’s the preview for this season’s finale! She shrieked and concentrated on the television.

Uh-huh. Do we have a World Cop fan here? I scoffed and playfully poked her shoulder, but she paid no attention to me.

THIS SEASON’S FINALE PREVIEW!

More than five witnesses saw the most famous World Cop breaking-in into a millionaire’s house and stealing a really expensive portrait of Mona Lisa. The Coppy stans are curious as to why he did that or what made him do such a thing. It’s become a mystery to everyone. Did our WORLD FAMOUS WORLD COP, ALSO KNOWN AS COPPY, BECOME A WORLD FAMOUS CRIMINAL? FIND OUT ON OCTOBER 7TH!

Toot sweet, me and Selly stared at each other speechlessly.

I had no clue as to why she was staring at me or why I was at her but we did.

Are you thinking what I’m thinking? She softly asked.

That Coppy must have been forced to do all those things?

No. Well, yeah, but no.

Oh. Then?

I’m thinking something which is rather insane, but worthwhile.

Would you care to share that thought with me? I switched off the T.V.

Have I ever not shared anything with you?

Yea, your personal diary.

They don’t call it personal just for the sake of it.

Uh-huh. I eyed Selly.

Anyways, what I was saying is, we break-in into the Uni.

No. What you were saying is that you were thinking something insane.

So that’s what I’m thinking. Breaking-In.

Selly, your jokes are a little too off nowadays, so just don’t joke around-

I’m serious Aria. She said in all seriousness.

I froze for a second and registered the idea of breaking-in, inside my pea sized brain. For one, I do know that that’s not a wonderful idea and, two, Breaking-In seems a little too criminal-ish and heart racing thing to do.

Are. You. Nuts? I asked.

No. I’m. Not.

Yes. You. Are.

You wanna argue with me on that instead of the break-in idea?

Yea no, I don’t think your idea’s gonna work. I posited.

And what makes you think that? She raised an eyebrow.

In actuality, many things.

How can you say that when you didn’t even listen to my plan?

You have a plan? I asked skeptically.

Of course, I do. Without a plan, we won’t even get to step a foot in the Uni.

"Whoa there now, we just thought of breaking-In and you already planned a plan? Sel, why are you so eager to find my diary in the first place?"

Two words. Concert Tickets. She said poker-faced.

Then that surely outta make you plan a plan, I muttered and chipped on my potato chips.

"Listen Aria, if it was not for you, I would have been on my way to my one true love. But, since you couldn’t take proper responsibility for the tickets, I am deadly stuck here with you and I’m not having a tide bit of fun. So, you better listen to me and agree with me on my plan or else you won’t be having a good night’s sleep today." Selly said with hostility.

I stopped chipping on my chips and stared into her deep, fire raged, life-threatening eyes.

You understand me? She asked.

Her look sent another chill down my spine, leaving me no choice but to agree with her.

Y-Yes. I averted my eyes and gazed at the can of soda because I didn’t have anywhere else to look.

Good. Now do you want to listen to my plan?

Do I have a choice?

Someone’s getting the hang of things here. She eyed me.

To be honest, I am getting a little scared of Selly now. She has turned into, those cold-blooded antagonists of a story and I’m really not enjoying myself with her right now.

So, what’s the plan? I asked because I couldn’t take any more of her impassively eyeballing on me.

All right, so first we need to get past the guards who are patrolling the University gates.

Right, and how are we going to do that?

Diversion.

Diversion?

Yes. In total, I suppose there are four guards; front gate and back gate.

Uh-huh.

So, you will enter the Uni from the front gate while I, somehow distract the two guards.

How will you do that?

I said ‘somehow’.

Right, somehow. I sighed. But the gates will be closed shut from the inside and the only way to enter it from the outside is, if you have a six-digit code, I mentioned.

Hm, you’re right. I never thought of that.

Glad I reminded you that.

You have done your research eh? Selly said appreciatively.

Pfft, Indeed I have. Like I didn’t think of breaking-In and getting my diary.

You didn’t.

Yes, I didn’t. I bobbed my head in agreement and with the bitter feeling of dissatisfaction towards myself. Pathetically, I took a sip of my soda.

Okay, so change of plan. You will try to go over the walls.

The walls? Uh, can I say something? I raised my finger hesitantly and waited for her admittance.

What is it?

The walls. They are motion-censored, so even if I try to go over it, a siren will alert the guards and those around the Uni.

Aria, tell me something I don’t know.

Certainly, as one would expect. Selly the master of ‘know it all’. I applauded.

Don’t you worry about that. I have someone who can help us get into the Uni without getting caught.

And who might that person be?

You will know it if you just hold on for a second. Selly took out her phone and rapidly scrolled through her contacts list. She stopped on an unknown number.

Let’s hope he picks up the call.

It’s a ‘he’? I asked.

Yea. Oh! it’s ringing.

Selly gestured me to shut my mouth and I unwillingly did. She got up from the couch and walked to and fro.

Guess the guy was not picking up, but she kept on calling him.

Undoubtedly, she is diligent in her work.

All right, so while she is on the phone, let me clear my thoughts.

Sure, Selly’s to-be-continued plan might work or might not work and it’s not like I can’t break-in. I can but you see, there are a few points that’s holding me back from doing so.

1) There are guards patrolling the gates, but since Selly said she would distract them; let’s go with it.

2) There are tons of cameras surrounding the University, so even if we get inside, no way we can dodge all of those cameras.

3) The walls are freaking motion-censored, so that leaves us nowhere to even climbing it.

4) Let me repeat number three loud and clearly. MOTION. CENSORED. WALLS.

5) I’m not ready to do it.

AH! he picked up! Selly shouted, interrupting my discussion with my own mind.

Hey Jake, it’s me.

Where are you?

Oh, well I have a favor to ask of you.

It’s a small one.

Okay, so I need to enter the University and I need your help with that.

What do you mean ‘just enter it’?

"Jake