One Thing Right Chapter 10 | Wenrene

 

One Thing Right

Chapter 10

"Hope"

"Wendy, this is Doctor Roseanne Park. She'll be the one in charge of your psychotherapies." Eric accompanied Wendy to her new doctor, he wanted to make sure that his patient will be well acquainted and be at ease with her before leaving. "Rose, this is Wendy."

"Hi, Wendy! It's nice to finally meet you." Rose flashes a smile to which Wendy got slightly intimidated, she stepped back. Wendy was oriented by Eric about Rose not only for being the best Psychologist in their hospital but she's also a medical doctor like him, a psychiatrist. Rose is famous for her counseling and has a 92% recovery rate of patients that suffered from depression and anxieties. Wendy knew that Eric just wanted to say all these titles and records to assure her that she'll be in good hands throughout her therapies but it actually triggered an anxiety for her. 92% recovery rate? Will she be added to that 92% or the 8%? What if she didnt recover? Will that make her doctor a failure like her too? These questions started popping inside her head.

Both of her physician noted this anxiety reaction quickly. "I've read your response to our questionaires beforehand and it says you like singing too? If you'd ask, I love it too."

Rose approached Wendy carefully while starting a conversation where she thought she could find comfort, and it worked. Wendy's interest appeared and it boosted a slight confidence in her.

Eric watched this small interaction, and even without hearing Wendy speak with Rose yet, it already assured him that Rose lived up to her achievements and that Wendy really is in good hands.

"I'll excuse myself then doctor Park, I'll leave Wendy with you now." He bids farewell to both and finally left the room.

Wendy stared at the now closed door where Eric left, she somehow wanted to run after him and say she isn't ready to face a new physician. This is one of the reasons why Wendy rejected Eric's inquiry if she'd like to be transferred fully in Rose' care since she's both a psychiatrist and well known psychologist. Eric was clear with his intentions though, stressing out that he's offering this not to discard her case but to give her options to lessen her medication fees. Wendy, feels like she has more security to Eric since she had known him as a good person from a long time. He would never harm her. She would really choose to still be under his guidance and pay for 2 doctors than to be fully in care of someone she doesn't know. Wendy thought of Irene, in this matter. 

"Would you like me to call him?" Rose offered and Wendy was embarrassed. She thought that Rose might be thinking that she's being a baby, not able to be alone. Or what if she thinks Eric and her has a relationship? 

"Uhm. Sorry." Wendy finally spoke but clearly she didn't know what to do after.

"You don't need to apologize. You can sit over here." She pointed the white chair in front of her desk. 

Dr. Roseanne Park, M.D, Psy.D

Wendy abided but her eyes got stuck on her doctor's name plate.

"So Wendy, how have you been?" Rose started and Wendy instantly felt like her chest grew lighter. Why would she turn emotional just by hearing that question? She got teary eyed and she became conscious over her reaction.

"I'm good." She only answered shortly. She didn't want to expose herself yet... that's why.. and then she saw Rose writing down something on her notebook. 

"Any hobbies you're into lately?" 

"Uhmm.. nothing.." 

"Why is that?"

Why? How would Wendy reply that? 

"I don't know." She answered and checked if that angers her.

"I thought you like singing?" 

Seems like this session is a game full of unending questions, but she doesn't know what's the right answer to each. So she felt down. 

Wendy thought that this person in front of her is way above her level. If she hasn't paid for her time, she wouldn't get any of her attention at all. Nobody would really care for her. She's only doing her job of throwing her questions and let her responses dictate the end result whether her responses were serious or just made up. After that she'll categorize her case under numerous types of diseases that fit the result. This is pointless... how will she really cope up from this so called depression?! 

"Wendy?" The doctor called out and Wendy was finally out of her head. 

Rose could already read how their distance became even farther and it all happened in just a small time. 

"Are you alright? Would you like to take a break?" 

"A break? But you've just asked a couple of questions. If we take a break often then that would waste your time." 

"I have all the time for you today, Wendy. We don't need to rush things. If we need to take a break a lot of times then so be it. These questions could wait." Rose smiled at her reassuringly and it made Wendy gasp as she didn't expect her reply. 

She realized how all her life she's chasing her time because it feels like she'll run out of it. Wendy has instilled in her mind that time is precious because everyone she met told and showed her that every seconds of it entails a corresponding cost. Money. And that's how she's living her life all this time too, just like everyone else.

"You're only saying that because you're afraid that you'll lose a patient." Wendy said and she wanted the doctor to agree.

"Nope. I said that because it's the truth. My time is as precious as yours, Wendy. Don't you think so too?"

 

How do Wendy value her time? All she could remember is that she worked and worked, to continue conforming to the laws injected by the society on her that's right. To become responsible, to become powerful, to become rich, to be above everyone else. But despite achieving it one by one, she continue to feel empty. 

"My time just passed and I don't know how much I have left of it."

"Why do say so?" 

"I don't know the real importance of it anymore. I never paused to think about it before, because I'm too busy doing something that I thought is important. I don't even know what the word important meant anymore." Wendy tried to soothe her mind by caressing it. The train of thoughts are forming inside her head again and migraine is being felt. But despite it, she saw Rose wrote something on her noted again. 

"Would you mind if I call it a day?" Wendy asked but it sounded more like a plead so Rose nodded without complaints nor questions raised. Rose just asked to drink her meds right away.

Wendy did it before she went to the door and exited but Rose' last words for today stuck with her, "You did well today, Wendy. Thank you for your time with me." 

Perhaps, even if she finds her time no longer important, it would still be valuable to others. 

---

"Wendy unnie?" Joy saw Wendy going out of the doctor's room and approached her hurriedly. She embraced the small friend in her arms with protection. 

Eric was there to accompany Joy while waiting for her but he didn't expect it to end so soon. He then saw Wendy's down expressions and he realized how hard Wendy's really adapting with the counseling. It was already a usual reaction from his patients but since it's Wendy, he has a heavy heart witnessing it. It was really wise decision to let Rose handle the therapy. He then left the two to have private moment and went inside Rose' room for discussion.   

"Yah! What did she do to you? Do you want me to pull her hair?" Joy tapping Wendy's back with enough pressure indicating how much she wanted to go to the room where Wendy came from and maybe she could have a confrontation with that doctor. Of course, Joy's reaction is driven only by her emotions not that she really hated the doctor. 

After a minute more of embracing Wendy, she tried to reach out again. 

"Wendy unnie, tell me what happened?" 

 She then heard Wendy cackling.. and this is getting really weird for her.

Wendy flashes a smile and broke free from Joy's embrace.

"I just realized a funny thing, Joy. My physician is that great." 

"Well.. she has to be.. I mean, you're being checked by her, I'll get her license revoked if she isn't." Joy joked but she's disheartened to see Wendy looking miserable right now but she has to stay strong for her. 

"Let's go home. I'll buy you your favorite bubble tea and celebrate the end of your first psychotherapy." Joy offered when Wendy's giving her a silent treatment after. 

---

"Wait here till I get your bubble tea, okay?" Joy demanded and Wendy only nodded.

They're in a park near their apartment building, it's night time so there are no people there but passerby. Wendy said she doesn't want to go home yet so they went circling the nearest possible place they could land but this whole time Wendy was incredibly quiet and it made Joy really saddened. 

"Don't go anywhere, okay?" 

"I'm not a kid, Joy." Wendy said then she started swinging aggressively.

"Yah! Stop that! You might hurt yourself! I'll scold you so much if you do!" 

"This wouldn't kill me, Joy. Go get our bubble teas." She continued swinging like she was already flying. 

Joy would rather choose a quiet Wendy than to have her speak anything but this. It worries Joy so much, she didn't expect her unnie would react negatively like this to her therapy. It felt like it would have been better if she just didn't go. She was all lively and looked like she's back as herself the past few days after their heart to heart session, but now she's shutting everything away again. 

Joy couldn't take her emotions anymore so she retreated and went to get their bubble as wished by Wendy.

 

"I'll take one grapefruit green tea lemonade without sugar, please."

"Anything else?"

"One grapefruit green tea lemonade with 30% sugar. Please add on black pearl and coconut." 

"Anything else?" 

The staff asked and Joy looked at her with tears forming in her eyes which made the latter shocked.

"Ma'am, a-are you alright?" 

Joy shook her head and finally cried. The staff at the counter was bewildered and didn't know what to do. Thankfully, there were no other customers around but Joy. 

Joy has been titled as a strong person since she was a child. She never backed on anything or anyone even if it's bigger than her, that's why bullies from her school were afraid of her. Joy is a challenger too, she's the eldest in their family and so she takes on everything in order to protect her siblings. Joy never cried so much on her ex boyfriends too, she always chose to move on right away and never settle for someone who has treated her badly. She believed that she has to live her life courageously in order to do not have regrets in the end. But despite this image that she worked on her whole life, she felt powerless in helping out one of the most important person she has in her life, her Wendy unnie.

While waiting for Wendy to come out from her therapy session, Eric approached her and told her not to worry. She then asked for advice on what she could do to help her, and he only stated to be always by her side. Joy knew that already, she wanted something more specific.

"That's the best advice I could ever give, Joy. There would be times that everything would be so hard to handle. Even if she regarded you as someone dear to her, there will be times that she will constantly push you away, shut you out from her world. But you have to understand that it's not her doing it but her depression." 

"Could you elaborate more?" 

Eric admired her curiosity and it's because she really wanted to help her unnie out so he continued.

"When depression does the talking, don't listen to it. Instead, reach out to the Wendy you know  behind that surface. Because she's waiting to see a light in her darkest time, her hope to continue fighting." 

He then tapped Joy's shoulder, "and I'm sure you'll be that light for her." 

Joy was fighting back her tears when she heard those words from him. She was determined to be that light, so she wanted to gain strength but by releasing her weaknesses first by crying behind Wendy's back. But if only she has someone with wiser knowledge about life to be her guide in helping out Wendy then she would grab that because despite being determined and wanting to help Wendy, she's still naive. If only she has someone who could release all these tears.

"Joy?" 

It was as if the heavens were listening, someone called her out.

"Irene unnie?"

---

"Joy! I was worried about you, what took you so long?" Wendy got up from the swing and run towards Joy. "What's with the sunglasses?"

Joy noticed how Wendy's back to her usual self again, perhaps swinging aggressively helped knock out some sense back to her. But of course she's only kidding, that's dangerous. She hands out her bubble tea.

"The cashier created a commotion, I had to wait for so long." Joy stated the opposite. 

"Really?!" Wendy raised an eyebrow, she's about to ask more questions when she saw Irene behind her.

She bowed immediately. Despite agreeing of becoming friends, they haven't really bonded since Irene and Seulgi were all busy at their respective work.

"Hi, Wendy. I saw the cashier creating a commotion at the tea shop so I went in to see it myself." Irene played along and smiled at Joy and then at Wendy. Joy sipped her bubble tea faster upon hearing that.

"So you're the one who gave her the sunglasses?" She also sips from her favorite bubble tea and like magic, she was all happy again. When Joy sees this, she felt really fulfilled. Her Wendy unnie's keeping her promise to her by holding on, even if it's so hard. So she has to keep her promise to her too, by being by her side all the time no matter what happen. 

"Yup. Have you forgotten? This kid adores me too much that she wants my style."

"Hey! Not that too much, you know!"

"Then give back my sunglasses."

They started quarrelling like long time friends, it made Wendy celebrate internally because they're becoming really close and she hopes that continues so Joy could have someone she can rely on when she's incapable of doing that for her.

"Don't you find it weird wearing sunglasses at night?" She tried to join in but Irene noticed that tinge of sadness in Wendy's face right away. So she had to do something. 

"Are you jealous?"

"What?!" Both Joy and Wendy reacted, shocked. 

"Are you making a move on my unnie?!" Joy was ready to put up a fight.

"She seemed really jealous. Don't worry, you're the first person I asked to be my friend, so you will always be special." Irene continued teasing with her cheesy remark.

"Yah! Do you hear yourself, Irene unnie? This sucks, I can't believe I stan a whipped fashion icon."

Irene only rolled her eyes at Joy and she turned to Wendy who got startled at the attention. 

What Wendy did not expect was Irene's next move. She messed up her short blonde hair. 

"Hey Wendy, come with me to a hair salon, let's dye your hair back to its original color."

"Huh? Why all of a sudden?"

"Because I want to see the natural you." 

Wendy then looked at Joy, she was doubtful if Joy had said anything that would make Irene like this to her but Joy only shrugged, denying the accusations.

"Okay." Wendy agreed and it made both Irene and Joy celebrate. It's been a while since Wendy wanted to go out and trying something out with a friend, other than Joy. 

Wendy thought it's about time to help herself, and not continue to make Joy worry for her too much. It's about time she find her truest goal, finding her happiness. It's time to make most of her remaining time. In that way, she thought, she will be able to fight her depression.

---

'"Irene unnie, you're saying you've heard and seen us last week when we were crying together in front of our apartment?"

"Yes and I overheard everything. I'm really sorry about that."

"And you're proposing that you wanted to help me out with Wendy unnie? Why?" 

"Do I really need a reason to help?" 

"Wendy unnie stressed out to me that she won't receive any form of kindness from anyone who knew she has depression." Joy said. She tried to argue with Wendy about it before, but she was really firm with this decision. So even if Joy really wanted accept Irene's offer of help, she had to keep her loyalty to Wendy's wishes. 

"I have a younger sister that lost her life in depression, and I know how it feels when taking care of someone depressed. I know what you're going through Joy, it's really hard." Irene confessed and her revelation made it harder for Joy to make a decision. 

"I really don't know, unnie. I'm afraid that Wendy unnie would be hurt in the end. She even told me not to tell you or Seulgi either, she doesn't want both of you to be her friends just because you pity her for her condition."

"We will keep everything as a secret between us. She won't get hurt. Our goal is to help her get through this, Joy. You have to be practical in this kind of situation and not let your emotions hinder possible solutions. Also, you're not the one who told me about her depression, I discovered this on my own. So you'll be bailed out from this if! If she will really learn our secret." 

"I really don't know unnie. We also didn't do anything for you to offer that kind of help. You said it yourself and experienced that it's hard, so why?"

Joy was really having a hard time to decide so Irene thought of other possible reasons she could think of. 

"Because she helped me out before too, remember?"

"Seriously? Do you think I could entrust my Wendy unnie who's bond with her was from a week full of arguments? Atleast give me more vital reason unnie." 

So in the end, Joy wanted an assurance of Wendy's safety first.

"Because Wendy accepted me to become her friend, and friends help each other, right? Give me the opportunity to do that for her, Joy. I want to become a part of her life too." 

A/N:

Disclaimer

Again, I'm not an expert when it comes to matters of depression nor has any background in any mental health problems. My research about this is only at the surface level so experts may see inadequate information written in this so I'm sorry in advance. Even if this is fanfiction, please correct me if there are any grave mistake. Thanks!

One Thing Right Chapter 9 | Wenrene

 

One Thing Right

Chapter 9

"Fresh Start"

The next day...

"Unnie, your eyes are swollen." 

"And you think yours aren't? Look at yourself in the mirror." 

Joy started chuckling to which Wendy got puzzled. 

"What's funny?" 

"It's just that, I can't believe we broke down crying last night in public, in front of your apartment building. I wonder if someone caught us on cam and posted it, I bet we're gonna be viral!" 

"You find that exciting? That's horror for me." 

"Yah! Think of it as a punishment for lying to me! If I didn't get suspicious of you yesterday before you left the unit, I wouldn't have rummage your belongings and saw a doctor's appointment paper on your desk." 

"No one's announcing that they're going to the hospital to get checked up, Joy. I feel like it's a natural private thing to do." 

"Tch. Liar. That's not what you said last night while crying like a baby." 

"Can we not talk about last night? It's giving me chills." 

"Why? You can't believe we're so sweet to each other? People might have mistaken us for a couple. She laughed teasingly. 

"Shut your mouth or I'll tell Sungjae what you said last night to me." 

"Do it. I don't really care, he has to know you're my priority." She challenged and Wendy was taken aback. Joy's really serious with her words.

"Look, Joy. Your love for Sungjae and for me are different. You have to give importance to him as well or you'll lose him." 

"I love him, unnie. But like I said, you're my priority. If he loves me, he should understand that. You're not just my best friend, or cousin, you're literally a part of me. So don't just shut me out or I'll go crazy." 

"If you marry Sungjae, you'll be whole. But then I'll be there on your marriage for sure." Wendy said with a hopeful tone. 

"That's still far to tell. But I love how you invited yourself to my own wedding without my knowledge." 

Wendy rolled her eyes. It'll be difficult to make Joy change her mind with her priorities. 

"Anyways, aren't you going home?" 

"My, I just declared I'll stay by your side and you want me to go home?" 

"It's not like that. You also have a life of your own in Jeju, you can't just be forever stuck with me you know." 

"I'm thinking of transferring here in Seoul. Dad's here anyways." 

"But your life is in Jeju, your working there, auntie's there and so is Sungjae." 

Even if Joy persists to be by Wendy's side, she cannot deny that it'll be difficult to leave everything behind in Jeju, her hometown. Right now she has no solution to this problem so she's just gonna think about it and settle it later. What's important now, is that she still has time to be with Wendy and that's what matters for now. 

"Don't worry, I'll think this through and tell you my decision soon but now, I want to know when' is your scheduled therapy." 

"Seriously Joy, I appreciate you wanting to look out for me but I'm seriously better now. I mean, not completely but I'm a step closer to that. I've done the most difficult part which is seeing a doctor, so I think I could handle the rest. Don't sacrifice your life because of me, I would really feel bad about that." 

"I understand, unnie. I'll consider everything before I make a decision. I won't decide something that I will regret later." She smiled reassuringly. "So every when is your schedule?"

"Saturdays of every week." 

"That often? I mean that's 4 times a month." 

"Yeah, I was surprised to be honest but what can I do about it? It's their prescription not mine." 

"Until when will be the therapy?"

"I'm scheduled for the whole 3 months but the doctor said it could cut shorter or expand longer depending on how I cope up with my condition. They could make me take lesser sessions to twice or once a month too if ever they detect a fast improvement." 

"Is your doctor male or female?"

"Both"

"Both? You'll have two doctors to see you?"

"Yeah, it's my request." 

"Are they good looking?"

"I haven't seen the other, but the male one is." 

"Then I'll tag along to see for myself." 

"Like I have a choice not to tag you along."

"Good. At least you're listening, Ms. Son."

~Growl~

"Oh, yeah. We haven't eaten last night beause we cried ourselves to sleep." 

"I'm hungry unnie, let's go get some food outside." 

It's already 11:30am when they stumbled upon Irene & Seulgi passing by just when Wendy opened the door of their unit.

The 3 of them got all startled and didn't know what to say or do. It seems like it's already fate that wanted them to reconcile. 

"H-hi, Seulgi, Irene?" Wendy started wanting to ease the tension.

"H-hi, Wendy." Seulgi stammered. Despite missing Wendy, she's still unsure whether the latter's happy to see her for a hug and a casual talk.

They were stuck standing in front of each other. They were caught in an awkward situation and it's all thanks to Joy for ending this misery.

"Oh! Hi Seulgi-unnie! Hi idol, Irene-unnie!"

Wendy got weirded out. When did Joy got close to those two that she has the courage to hug them while greeting? And when did she had the privilege to call them unnie? 

"By the way, thanks for the cupcakes yesterday, Wendy. They were delicious!" Seulgi finally flashes her eye smile, but still testing the water.

"Cupcakes?" Wendy then looked at Joy questioningly. 

Crap. Joy panicked. She forgot to confess her sins to Wendy yesterday but she had forgotten about it when they got too emotional. Now, she's about to get busted as a liar in front of her new friend Seulgi and her idol Irene. 

The other two noticed how greatly confused Wendy was so the speculation that Joy was lying to them was surfacing. Not until Wendy decided to speak.

"Ahh! Ooohhh... yeah! Yup, yup!" She made a funny and odd reaction to buy some time and think about what she'll say next. "I mean, I almost forgot about the cupcakes. I've been reaaally occupied lately." It wasn't a whole lie. 

Joy can't help but smile, Wendy's covering for her. So, she played along.

"Told 'ya! Wendy unnie baked them for you both." She grinned to Irene and Seulgi then back to Wendy. 

Wendy is in disbelief of what she's hearing. Her cousin is really thick faced... and a liar.

"Yeah we really thought you're bluffing but it's really real, right Wendy?" Seulgi replied to Joy then turned to Wendy happily. "I'm really so thankful that you aren't angry with me. I thought you're avoiding me." She gave Wendy a huge bear hug. 

Irene was relieved to see Seulgi smiling so brightly again.

That statement was half true and half false for Wendy. Yes, she's avoiding the two recently but it's because she isn't in the right state to communicate to anyone at all. She was never angry, a little, maybe towards Irene's attitude to her, but her problem right now is bigger to even think about a past interaction. It's already forgotten not unless Irene treats her the same again and again. 

Wendy returned the hug and reassured Seulgi that there were no hard feelings. 

"Thank you, Wendy! Let's bond together some time soon!"

Wendy nodded happy to see a bubbly Seulgi again and then looked at Irene when she was released feom the hug, she seemed tamed now that her roommate is back. She has forgiven her really, even if she hasn't apologized yet.

"I'm not angry Seul, and sorry about that if you feel I was avoiding you recently. It's just that, I'm really busy, so..." She turned back and cast an apologetic look at Seulgi. 

"See? Wendy unnie won't ignore you." Joy smiled.

Both Seulgi and Joy started conversing on their own while it left Wendy and Irene on the side. Now, that's when the awkwardness returned. 

Wendy is afraid to say or do something since Irene may snap on her again and that's the least she wanted to handle right now. She might not even know how to, anymore. 

"Hi, Wendy." Irene spoke soflty.

If Wendy didn't know Irene, she could resemble her voice to her physician. Their voice are so calming in such soft and reserved tone.

"Hi, Irene." Short response but that's the only thing she could offer to her now.

Irene understood quickly that Wendy's aloofness is the consequence of her attitude previously towards her. She cannot blame her.

"Wendy." She tried again.

"Yeah?" 

"We need to talk." 

"B-but we're about to grab some lunch." She tried to reason out.

"Can we tag along then? We're about to eat out too." 

"Are you sure? Because the last time you..." she paused as bad memories became vivid again.

Irene is starting to lose hope to reach out to Wendy. She's really not good with rejections. 

"It's okay if you don't want to."

She heard a tinge of disappointment and Wendy felt bad. 

"Oh come on, unnie. It's just lunch, you can join us!" Joy to the rescue. 

Irene checked Wendy for some response but she just nodded after giving it a second thought. Despite appearing as forced approval, Irene would still grab this opportunity. 

"Come on, Seulgi unnie, we're partners throughout this lunch!" Joy put her arms over Seulgi's shoulders and they hopped happily to their way. Seulgi wasn't ignorant of Joy's plans though, Joy whispered to her the plan of making their unnies reconcile. Seulgi wanted this so they could have a smooth friendship from now on. 

This is really awkward for Wendy, but she's really glad that Joy is still treating and teasing  her the same as before. Even with depression, which makes everything hard for her to function normally, she has Joy that will always make her feel that she's still the unnie she has met from the start. Wendy knew how lucky she really is to have Joy, so just thinking about it boosts her mood. She smiled. 

"Let's go?" Wendy offered and Irene, who noticed a positive reaction now. She's glad to take the invitation.  

They all choose to go to the restaurant next to the one that Irene and Seulgi were at the other day. It's an Italian restaurant and they ordered the vongole pasta, pomodoro and a family sized pizza. 

Joy and Wendy seated side by side. This time it's Seulgi who whispered to Joy that they do this seating arrangement with Irene facing Wendy. It's a trick really, if you want to speak to someone then just seat in front of them and not on their side.

While they were waiting for their orders, Joy brought up a topic to talk about, exclusively to Seulgi only. The other two were facing everywhere but each other. 

Joy and Seulgi thought they would talk eventually but their orders came and not a single word came out from them at all. 

"There's no harm in talking, you two." Joy finally grew impatient. "We're already at our 5th topic, and both of you are still on mute. Hello?!"

Wendy rolled her eyes. "If you speak for the whole group then perhaps we could have jived in to your topics. But hey it's like you and Seulgi are the only ones here." 

"Hey no fighting here." Seulgi interfered.

"Anyways, we're going to wash our hands before eating." Joy abruptly stood up and brought along the confused Seulgi. 

"I have alcohol?" Wendy offered, she already read Joy's plan of making Irene and her talk. 

"Whatever." Joy and Seulgi walked away and that left the two again. 

"They should have washed their hands while waiting for our food." Wendy sighed as she shook he head.

"Wendy."

Now she didn't expect Irene to callout first.

"Yeah?" 

"About the previous week we're together, I'm really sorry for the attitude I've shown you." Irene started with an apology. She has been thinking about what to say since Joy's visit yesterday. Despite thinking thoroughly about it she's bit hesitant to actually say her thoughts now especially that she didn't expect to meet her this soon and unscheduled.

"Oh." Wendy was caught speechless of course. She didn't expect that there's this side of Irene that could make an apology. She's really different now from when she saw her before. Before, Irene's like a person wrapped by dark aura but now she's oozing with lighter vibe. 

"Just, oh?" Irene asked a bit disappointed at her reaction. 

"Ah! Sorry, I was just surprised you're making an apology." She scratched the back of her head. 

"I realized that my behavior was really wrong, I shouldn't have judged you right away when you're just helping out." 

"It's fine now. It's kind of understandable if you think about it. I'm a stranger and you just want to protect your privacy." 

Irene thought that Joy was right, Wendy really turned out to be a person that forgives anyone with just apology. Wendy really is a good person, but somehow Irene thought that it makes her prone to being hurt so easily if she'll be like that all the time. For some reason, she has the urge to change Wendy with her way of living. 

"That's true, but I could have done better." Irene was being honest, Seulgi was a long time friend and she will never let her get harmed. Therefore, if she was entrusted to someone, it will be to a good person as well. Irene had doubts, and she's basing it from experience of getting fooled all over again. That's why she always kept her walls thick and high to prevent it from happening again. 

"Past is past. Let's forget about it. Now that Seulgi has returned, there are no reasons for us to communicate anyways." Wendy said as a matter of fact. She sees no reasons at all for them to interact again.

"Isn't Seulgi your friend?" 

That made Wendy pause and think. "I guess so? But I can't say the same for her." 

"She treats you as her friend. She got really lonely when you abandoned her." 

"Abandoned? Hey, that's a strong word and I didn't do that." She sighed. "There's really a bunch of things going on with my life lately that I..." 

"You don't have to explain. I just want you to know that Seulgi really likes you as her friend." 

"Oh. I feel the same way. She's really a good person." 

"And so are you."

Irene's eyes widened. It was a slip of the tongue. Why she said that out loud?

"Why am I getting compliments? You're already forgiven so you don't have to." Wendy laughed it off which irks Irene a bit. She was being truthful and yet... 

"Where were they anyways?" Irene changed the topic out of embarrassment. 

Wendy wanders her eyes and found the two sneaking behind the wall from the wash area just to check on them. She had an idea how to punish those two and shared it with Irene. 

"They are doing this because they wanted us to talk and reconcile." Irene commented feeling bad for the two after hearing Wendy's plan. 

"Yeah but we're going for a payback." 

"So we're just going to talk? What are we going to talk about?" 

"Just anything. They're giving us space to talk so we're giving it to them. The thing is, they're gonna go hungrier." 

Irene watched Wendy snicker at her own plans and it brought a smile on her face. This stranger she treated wrongly before plays along with her to make a prank on their friends. It seemed so fast but Irene's starting to get at ease with her. 

"Since you're a friend of Seulgi, does that makes us friends too?" 

Wendy stared at her in disbelief. Is she hearing those words from Irene's mouth? The model Irene Bae? She thought it would be rude of her if she says no. 

"Well... would you like to?" She had to ask first.

Irene smiled. "If you'd like it too." 

There were no more words needed to respond to that. Just their eyes and smiles for each other were enough evidences of what they wanted. This commences a friendship that they didn't know they will later cherish forever.

One Thing Right Chapter 8 | Wenrene

 

One Thing Right

Chapter 8

"The Promise"

Joy was talking nonstop since Seulgi invited her inside the unit. Joy swiftly entered before Irene could even react and so they did not have a choice but to listen to her blabbing. Who would have expected that there is someone as talkative as Joy in the first meeting?

Sure, Irene had met Joy before but it was more like a short idol-fan encounter with all the greetings and signing but it’s not enough background for someone to speak to them spontaneously. Irene and Seulgi can’t help but exchange looks and wonder what is this girl’s motive other than giving them the cakes.

“Uhm… Are you sure Wendy baked these cupcakes for us?” Seulgi finally interrupted. She honestly can’t relate to the topic that Joy’s talking about so might as well ask something that’s been boggling her mind the past days.

“Of course! Why would I lie about that?” Joy said still wearing a smile on her face.

“But…Wendy’s outright avoiding me.”

“Avoiding you? How?”

“I tried to reconnect with her via calls and messages but none of them were answered. I approached her several times in person too but she always ran away whenever she spots me nearing her.” Seulgi said dejectedly.

Irene noticed how Wendy’s sudden change of behavior towards them really affected Seulgi. Not that she really cared about Wendy avoiding her, after all the way she has treated her the past week they got to meet, but why does she need to involve Seulgi in their feud? She is innocent.

“Seulgi unnie, Wendy unnie’s the type of person that doesn’t use her phone regularly. Even me as her cousin, I don’t get response to my calls and messages. I have to always fly all the way from Jeju-do to here and slam her door open just to catch up with her.” Joy said as a matter-of-fact and it somehow made Seulgi relieved, but doubt remains.

“It’s okay though, if she doesn’t want to befriend me anymore. I feel like I’m at fault for pressing on a favor to her even when we just got acquainted recently. But still, I want to thank her and say sorry in person even for the last time.”

Joy understood now why Wendy decided to do the favor, it’s because she could tell that Seulgi’s really a good person.

“Why would she not want to befriend someone adorable as you?”

Irene then snap a judging look at Joy. That escalated differently from their original subject.

“Ah… are you hitting on me?” Seulgi’s smile slowly reappearing to her face and Irene’s relieved witnessing that.

“I’d love to but I’m already taken. Sorry, unnie.” Joy played along.

“Aw. Now that really hurts.”

Then the shared a laughter. Watching the two of them, it felt like another friendship is yet to bloom. Irene’s happy whenever her friend Seulgi is happy. Irene somehow wanted to thank Joy for that but she isn’t the type of person to outright say that she's grateful for her.

“Here’s another cupcake for you.” Irene offered to Joy.

“Eh? But I already ate one when it’s really for you guys.”

“Just to make sure there’s no poison in it.”

Joy was confused and Irene still wears her straight face but her intention was unmatched. Seulgi’s laughter became louder because she could read everything in front of her so clearly.

“Joy, if I were you I’ll just take it.” Seulgi finally commented.

“Okay. Thanks unnie.”

They continue munching the cakes and everyone is enjoying it.

“Tell Wendy, thanks for the cupcakes, they are really delicious!”

“Why don’t you tell that herself, Seulgi unnie?”

“Can I really?”

“Yeah. Like I said, just slam her door open.”

“That’s really weird, you know.”

“Honestly, I don’t really get it why you haven’t done that yet. I mean, if you really don’t want your young friendship to end with her then do something about it. That unnie’s not going to approach you even if you wish for it. That’s just her personality; she’d rather isolate herself away from everyone if they gave up on her.”

The mood abruptly changed and Irene noticed it too. If she’ll think about it, there really is something mysterious about Wendy that she can’t erase from her mind. She wanted to ask further but she’s also scared.

“Is Wendy okay?”

Joy realized she went too far in talking when she heard Seulgi.

“She’s fine.”

“I should call her, right?”

“I’ve said it and you experienced it already, she isn’t picking up calls. Unless you're one of her parents.”

“Of course. Family should be respected after all.”

“Respect is earned not gained. That should be applied even in the family.”

These continues remarks from Joy really are concerning.

“Hey, is there a problem?” Seulgi consoled her.

“What are you saying? I’m just stating facts, unnie!” Joy laughed it off as if there’s no bearing to her words which made the two exchange looks again. “Anyways, why do you think Wendy’s avoiding you two?” Joy changed the topic right away.

“Huh? Uhm.. well.. Like I said, I’ve asked her to do a favor.” Seulgi doesn’t have the heart to say it straight but she knows Irene’s actions were huge factors in contributing to it especially when she learned about that night when Irene got drunk and ended up in a heated argument with Wendy.

“You’re treating her low for a friend if that’s what you think.” Joy said. “There must be something else.” She’s yet again feigning ignorance.

Seulgi and Irene were wondering if Joy really don’t know the details but they’ve decided not to speak a word about it anymore.

“Uhm.. yeah. We can’t think of anything else, right unnie?” She then turned her head to the latter earning a nod.

“I see. I just thought that if by chance you made her angry then I’d say it’s only proper to apologize and by then she’ll be fine. She’s really that kind you know, no matter how awful people had done to her, just an apology always makes her feel alright.”

Irene realized how Joy wanted to direct that to her in a peaceful manner and this just solves their question as to what’s this girl’s main purpose for being here. Of course, she has to know something. Joy’s been living with Wendy lately and their both cousins too, there must be no secrets between them. But despite Joy not having mean intentions, Irene can’t help but to return her walls back to its place, an initial reaction to protect herself. She can’t help but get disappointed in Wendy too, for telling about her, despite knowing that Joy adores her. Now after knowing the truth, Irene can’t help but think how Joy’s seeing her now.

“Up to what extent do you know about us? What did Wendy told you?” Seulgi immediately asked, halting Irene from exploding with her mixed up emotions. She knows that it's still too dangerous for Irene to comment on this without resolving her emotions first. Irene would surely spit out hurtful words. 

“Just the favor you asked to Wendy unnie and that she got into a heated argument with Irene unnie.” Joy said truthfully.

“Can you elaborate?” Seulgi has to make sure.

“Eh? Uhm… That you have to live away for a week due to mandatory company outing but you can’t leave Irene because she’s not feeling well so you asked Wendy unnie a favor. As for the argument, I don’t really know the context. Wendy unnie just told me you two don’t get along well due to that argument.”

“Oh.” Seulgi replied and she immediately looked at Irene who somehow can’t believe Joy’s revelation. They both felt relieved and honestly, Seulgi can’t help but get satisfied because indeed she picked a right person to be her friend in this neighborhood.

“What’s with your reaction? Is there something else I don’t know that’s important?!” Joy is frustrated; she really hates being left out in a conversation. She tried to make Seulgi spill but the latter was just laughing and denying that there was something more.

Irene on the other hand was zoning out. She felt bad for judging Wendy too quickly. Perhaps it's about time to go and apologize to her. 

---

“Where were you?” Wendy greeted Joy by the door.

“I told you I went out to meet some friends and gave the cupcakes you baked.” Joy then examined her cousin from head to toe. “What’s with the shades? And why dressed up? Going somewhere?”

“Oh. I am meeting a client. I left some money on top of the fridge. Go get us some food and cook too, I won’t be back till later tonight.”

“On a Saturday? And I thought you’re taking a break from working? When have you decided to resume?” Joy throw multiple questions as she found it weird. Wendy is hiding something from her, she is sure of it.

“I really have to go now, Joy. My client’s waiting.” Wendy did not bother to respond on Joy’s inquiries before she dashed out.

---

"Mom, you called?" She called back her mother after discovering her missed call after 3 hours. Wendy was busy baking and tidying up the kitchen after. 

"Have you decided about taking over our business there in Seoul?" It always has been like this. No greetings nor inquiries how she has been. 

"Not that again, mom. I told you already, I don't want to do it." 

"And what are you going to do with your life now? You don't want to practice what you studied and you don't even want to take over the business, don't you have a dream for yourself?"

It's the same topic all over again that never fails to bring pain to Wendy's being. 

"I just want to find my happiness mom." 

"It's that thing you called happiness is what's wrecking your life. You'll be happy when you're all successful Wendy, but you're throwing all the opportunities that were given to you."

But was it really the happiness she's looking for?

Is success meant only for money and power?

"You don't understand mom." 

"You need to grow up now, Wendy or you'll be left out. Stop walking away from your responsibilities."

Then there was silence. Wendy doesn't know how to respond to that at all. Why are they treating her as if she's really walking away from responsibilities when she just wanted a time for herself? It's her first time to seek some rest because everything's getting too much on her. The pressure and stress she's feeling lately were already eating her alive to even function as a person but they just don't understand. 

Does she really have to conform to what everyone's doing and achieving in order to be called responsible and successful? Is it the sole standard in living a life?

"We're tired making up excuses to our relatives where you've been while your sister and cousins are living their dreams." 

"Then don't make up excuses for me. I never asked you to do that, they can do whatever the hell they want with their lives and I'll do the same with my life!" Wendy finally snapped. She really can't take it anymore. Her heart is bleeding and she can only take away so little from this enormous pain by crying. She has never been so desperate to end it all quickly until now that she's triggered yet again by her mom. 

The society is already too much for her and she has no safe place where she could peacefully rest nor recharge from. Family was the same as everybody else for Wendy, they are all too much for her. 

"Do you hear yourself speak? You don't even have plans for yourself. How can we just let you be when you are our daughter?"

"Am I really your daughter? Because I don't feel like it. All I ever was to you was a doll that you wanted to dress up and control so you can brag about others! Don't you care about how I feel anymore?" 

"How dare you talk to your mother like that! You don't have anything to prove us to yet and you're so full of yourself! Do you really think you could go far like that? You still need us Wendy and that's what we'll continue to do so as your parents!" 

"Stop controlling me! Stop making me feel like I don't have a choice nor time left to achieve whatever I wanted in my life. Please, mom, for once listen to me." She pleaded once again and Wendy felt like the pain from her chest escalated to her head. The pain was like as if someone's squeezing it.

"Go back to Canada before we even drag you out in Seoul!" 

The call ended like that and so she breakdown. Wendy curled up on her bed while crying the hardest she could so she could tire out herself and finally sleep away from this cruel life.

ERIC NAM

Psychiatrist

Wendy stared at the name plate on the table for a few minutes before the doctor repeated his question.

"Wendy, you're still with me?" He softly asked. 

One thing she liked about visiting her physician is their soft calming voice. It feels like they are lulling her to sleep. It's only her second visit to this hospital, and the doctor's reading and explaining his diagnosis of her. Wendy's suffering from a Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia),  a continuous long-term (chronic) depression. This type of depression lasts for years and is significantly affecting someone's way of living, be it at work, relationships or even in daily activities.

Wendy was no longer surprised to be diagnosed with depression. The actual thing that really surprised her all this while is where she found the courage to actually seek help for a professional. Maybe it's one of those spur of the moment, that she felt high and well that made her do it but after she went back home she no longer wanted to continue it. 

It's her mother's call that pushed her to come back as scheduled here, because right after the call and waking up from her sleep she got scared of the fact that she's ended up with so many suicidal thoughts than usual. 

"I'm prescribing you these anti-depressants and urges you to undergo therapy sessions." The doctor continued.

Wendy scoffed. She thought she's jobless and yet she has to pay for her medication. It's not that she cannot afford it, she has a wealth of her own, it's just that she pity herself for becoming like this. She guessed it's the price she has to pay for conforming to what others had set for her in her life even if she doesn't want too. 

"Will it work out if I take the therapy?"

"Of course! Depression could be treated, Wendy. It's not a dead end. You're stronger than you think you are, I believe you can battle it out. We will help you." Eric assured her.

"Is it necessary? The therapy?"

"Yes. Even if you have someone to talk to from where you're living, it's still different when talking to a mental health specialist. That way, we could monitor your behavior, thinking and improvements."

"Okay." Wendy then lowered her head and started playing with her fingers. She mumbles, "I don't have anyone, anyway."

The doctor continued writing his prescription acting like a real professional despite hearing her heartbreaking remarks.

"I just have one request, Eric."

The doctor has waited for this acknowledgement from her and he's relieved about it. "What is it, Wendy?"

Both Eric and Wendy knew each other way back in Canada. Although they were from a different batch in Richmond Hill High School, Eric in his senior year and Wendy's on her first year, they've crossed in the school's show choir. They have become great friends back then because they both shared a love for music and they both sing. But their connection stopped once Wendy went back to Seoul first.

"I'd like to have another physician or other professional fitted for my therapy sessions. Don't get me wrong, I trust your capabilities.. it's just that..."

"I understand. I was going to give you one even if you don't ask."

"R-really?"

"Yup. I understand that it's really hard to open up about your feelings and behavior to me since we know each other. Just you coming to me for diagnosis is enough proof that you trust me." Eric smiled reassuringly.

"But I'll still be your head physician, if you don't mind?"

"Yeah. That's fine with me. I just don't need to confess in front of you."

"Don't worry. All information will be treated confidential. Work is work."

"Glad to know."

"So who will be the one to assist you?"

"She's one of the best Psychologist here in our hospital, and I'm sure you'll feel at ease with her since she also loves singing." 

"Really? What's her name then?"

"It's Rose. Dr. Rose Park."

---

"Joy?" Wendy was surpised to see her cousin standing in front of their apartment building. It's already 11pm when she arrived. Wendy went to different places just so she could avoid being still with her mind. 

"Wendy!" She welcomed the girl with a warm embrace. "I was so worried about you! Where were you? Why won't you check your phone regularly? Didn't you see how many calls and messages I've sent you?" 

Wendy tried to breakfree from the tight hug but she stopped when she heard Joy started sobbing. 

"J-joy?! Are you crying?" 

"What do you think? I thought something happened to you already!" 

"I told you, I'll be late." 

Joy's the closest to Wendy, and she has known the girl like the back of her hand. She could always see through Wendy's smile and strong front, she knows that behind it lies a poor struggling soul that's barely living. That's why it's so impossible not to worry about her.

"You told me... there are no secrets between us. And yet... you're lying to me." 

Wendy realized how much Joy's crying immensely that she has difficulty in speaking. Joy was really worried about her and Wendy can't help but to breakdown. Why has she forgotten? She has Joy by her side all this while and she completely shut her out. Wendy was blinded by her depression that pushed away everyone including the only person that sincerely cared about her. 

"I'm diagnosed with depression, Joy. I'm broken." This time it's Wendy who bursted out crying. "I'm sorry I've shut you out. I'm just so scared that you'll see me differently. You're the only one I have now.. and I'm... I'm so scared that you'll... you will..." 

"Sshhh!!! Stop that nonsense and don't speak the word." Joy silenced her. "If there's one person you should not worry about leaving your side, it should be me. Even if the world starts crumbling, I'll choose to stay by your side. I will even sacrifice my boyfriend for you, because you're that much important to me, Wendy." She cried even more. 

"You don't have to do that." Wendy chuckled but tears were still flowing from her eyes.

"But I can do that for you. And so what if you're diagnosed with depression? It's not going to define who you are as a person! It's not a flaw or weakness of yours, it's a mental health disease that we need to fight. So you have to hang in there no matter what!" Joy can't imagine a life without Wendy, she loves her unnie so much.

"Promise me, Wendy unnie, you'll hang in there and I promise you I'll be with you all the way." 

"Thanks Joy."

"I don't need your thanks, I need you to promise me!" She whined impatiently.

"I promise."

That night was full of tears, they didn't care if they were outside where people could see. They can picture them out ugly crying but it doesn't matter, because what's more important is their feelings and appreciation towards each other. They want to express how much they are needed and wanted in their lives.

Disclaimer:

I'm not an expert when it comes to mental health concerns such as depression but I did my research before I write this update. But despite my research, experts may still find inadequate information so I am sorry about that. Please correct me if ever there's a grave mistake. Thanks in advance. 

Long List (A Sequel to Shameless Parents) | Wenrene

"Gugudan's Sejeong, Twice's Mina, Mamamoo's Solar, Blackpink's Rosè, Jennie.. wait.. Jennie?" Irene raised an eyebrow and looked at her girlfriend in disbelief. "Seriously? Rose and now Jennie? That's half of Blackpink you're hitting on!"

"They're only four in the group, Hyun." Wendy said trying to convey a point since Irene's stressing 'half' as if there were a lot of members in Blackpink but when she saw her girlfriend's glare became even more piercing, she regretted her attempt right away. What is she even trying to do? There's no way she could win with a jealous Bae Joohyun. She should be defending herself and deny all allegations and not adding more fuel to her anger. "I mean..H-hyun.. you know that list is made-up, right? And excuse me, but I never hit on anyone but you." She stammered first but regained firmness in her confession. 

Irene successfully hid her squealing self over Wendy's words as she remain poker faced. "Are you saying my source is unreliable?"

"Your source?" Wendy then eyed Yeri on the side, that face alone screams unreliable. Her killer eyes for Yeri were immediately interrupted when Irene slammed her hands on the table.

"Eyes on me." She demanded and Wendy obliged, her eyes soften. That's how the topic about Irene's source ended.

"Wow, I expected there will be a lot of people linked to you but I didn't know there's this much." Irene said as she examined the list once more.

"W-what? There's more?!" 

"Chungha."

"Oh come one, that was 4 years ago!" 

"So you remember?!!"

Oops.. Wendy realized she reacted wrongly... again. 

"W-well.. she guested on our radio program before.." She explained carefully with a submissive soft voice. 

"And you shamelessly flirted with her like you two were the only ones present! Unbelievable."

Wendy gulped. Why on earth is she in this kind of situation? She felt so betrayed by her other members for pulling a prank on her like this. They brought up that 'second lead' thing out of nowhere, they're too much into drama these days and they're a living proof that too much is really not good for anyone's well being. And out of all people in their dorm, Irene asked Yeri to give her a list of people that's linked to her. Yeri's not only into drama but into fanfics as well! Wendy's not even sure if Yeri's able to distinguish what's real and what's not anymore. 

“YAH! KIM YERIM! SEW YOUR OWN PLUSHIE!!!” Wendy finally loses it and screamed at the top of her lungs.

Wendy was about to dash out and ran after Yeri but she was stopped by a very calm yet still intimidating voice of Irene. She knew she cannot escape and she's completely doomed now when Irene's like this, it means serious business that needed to be attended quickly or she'll undergo cold treatment from her again. Whenever they fight, whether it's jealousy or just small understanding, Wendy always suffer a day of no kiss, touch or even conversational talk with her, heck they even go back to their own bedrooms to sleep alone and lonely in the night. Thankfully, they both can't withstand being away from each other, mostly Irene to Wendy, so they always end their fight after a day. They promised each other that they will no longer repeat that cold war they had in their past which lasted months. But still, a day of without Irene by her side will always be painful to her no matter what. She had experienced this before and she never wanted it to happen again. 

"Sit down Son Seungwan, we're not finished yet." 

Wendy's eyes sparkled when the thought of continuing their moment came to mind in response to Irene's demand but she knew it was too good to be true when she heard her call out for the other three members. 

"Kang Seulgi, Park Sooyoung, Kim Yerim, come over here." 

The three abided and sat down in front of Irene. Their faces were painted with different emotions but no remorse was detected. Seulgi was pretending she didn't know what she did wrong, Joy's head was lying low but her smirk shows a sign she's actually enjoying the situation, Yeri on the other hand was outright smiling.

Outsiders may ask why they are like this. Seulgi, Joy and Yeri's knew Wendy and Irene like the back of their hand, they could read them even if their words and actions are contradicting at times so they know if their teasing and jokes went overboard or not. In truthfulness, but they won't admit because it's too cheesy, they love and support Irene and Wendy's relationship since the very beginning and they oath that they will just let them be and do their own thing for their love to bloom more and grow stronger. 

However, just a week later, they all can't stand it anymore when the two started to get so disgusting in front of them. Their sweet and sour moments were defeating all the pairs in the history of Korean dramas. The group could take their hand holding, occasional glances, hugs and kisses in the early stage of their relationship but they all learned the hard and disgusting way that 'occasional' was actually an alien word to Wendy and Irene as their relationship progressed, they've bet that 'low-key' was never a word to them either. So they've decided that in order to save their career, the three started teasing the two to prevent their libido surfacing in public. Who knows what they can do? People who are in love are at their stupidest state, they're always in cloud 9, so they just can't trust them to be themselves alone at all. Wendy and Irene are their members as well as their parents after all, and they won't allow any embarrassment to their group slash family all because they've been exposed doing something sexual disgusting in the eyes of the public. Of course if ever they want to out themselves and their relationship, then they'll support 100%, but never in this kind of way. So even if they needed to tease them every time for them to get back to their senses then so be it. Before it was a hassle, but now it became a habit that even though they're in a private place like dorm, the three just can't stop ruining Wendy and Irene's moments. 

"Yeri, it's not proper that you just bring up people's names and linking them to Seungwan." Irene said which made everyone shocked. They thought they're going to hear some further interrogation regarding this matter but surprisingly she did not. 

"Unnie. We're just kidding, we just love teasing both of you so stop scolding Yeri." Joy explained.

"But your jokes aren't funny anymore. Your other jokes, I can tolerate, but not when it comes to linking Seungwan with everyone else. In case you have forgotten, I'm her girlfriend." Irene was still firm with her tone and her facial expression to look believable because this time, she's not going to let this pass. "What if your jokes will be the cause of our breakup?"

"B-break up?! What are you talking about, Joohyun unnie?" Wendy swiftly responded to that 'what if' question from Irene which just made the latter roll her eyes at the reaction. 

"I just said 'what if', right? I'm just giving out an example what could happen if they ever cross the line with their jokes." Irene defended.

"But that's not gonna happen, right?" Wendy looked at her with teary eyes and it's so difficult right now to mask a strong countenance in front of these kids when her girlfriend's like this. Irene has to stay firm in order to discipline these three, she must withstand a soft Wendy for now. So she ignored her painfully and focused on the three who are smiling like fools already. This is what she's saying... they never take them seriously.

"I'm not kidding." Irene said to the girls while Wendy gasped.

"Unnie. You're over reacting! If there's one person in this room right now that doesn't want the two of you to break up more than us, then it's you. So what you're saying is impossible." Yeri finally backlashed and then the other two fought back their smile from becoming wider.

That made Irene taken aback. It's true though, there's no way she's going to let go of Wendy no matter what but she won't admit that especially in front of these three. A real tsundere indeed. Meanwhile, Wendy was already blushing furiously. 

"Yeri, I'm the unnie here. Show me some respect." 

That made everyone freeze on their chair. Of course, nobody can argue on that and there's no way they could win with Irene if she raise her 'UNNIE' card. Only fools who doesn't value their lives would go against that unnie card in this group.

"I'm sorry, Irene unnie." Yeri lowered her head apologetically and so did Joy and Seulgi. 

Wendy looked at the three with pity and wanted to help them out but at this point Irene holds the authority over all of them.

"But Joohyun unnie, we just wanted to help you out so you know who to look out for when we're back at doing live stages again. You know, Wendy's really irresistible to both guys and gals so..." Seulgi wanted to salvage their teasing team but it got immediately dismissed by Irene in which Wendy was so thankful for. Why that heck is her 'chingu for life' doing anyways? Stabbing her back front? She can't believe it!

"Like I've said before, Seulgi, Joy and Yeri. Stop with this nonsense of bringing up names because it's not helping anyone of us. I trust Wendy, I will only believe what I see and feel and at this point my girlfriend's all loyal to me." She then looked at Wendy to her side all so lovingly. "Right?"

"Of course! There's no one else but you today, tomorrow and in the future!" Wendy said smoothly with a wink earning a blush from the older, while the other 3 just want to get out from this situation that they started.

"Okay! Okay! We're so sorry, Irene unnie. We're not going to tease you anymore with the second lead in your real life drama" Yeri apologizes again urgently wanting to get away. The other two desperately do the same thing.

"At least you all know your limits,  okay? Now, go back to your rooms and behave." 

The other 3 dispersed immediately but not before Yeri was asked out to do something for Irene. 

"What unnie?" Yeri looked at her unnie like she's seeing a crazy person. Her words really are so contradicting with her actions.

"I said... give me the list of people you know that could be Wendy's potential second lead."

Irene is really crazy but Wendy's crazier for her.

"So.. aren't you going to deny all these?" Irene spoke when she sees Wendy lost in her own world.

"I'm denying all of that from the start. You said you trusted me and yet..." She pouted. Sometimes, Irene could be tiring but she knows she just wanted attention and has no intention to damage their relationship at all. Thank goodness, Wendy's such a kind hearted and understanding person.

"Seungwan. I'm not reading this list because I have trust issues on you, I'm just doing this to see who these fans ship you with... so I could step up my game if I have really have to." 

"W-what do you mean?"

Irene sighed and further explained. "I want your fans to see me as the more fitting for you and no one else. I'm not insecure or jealous, that I'm sure because I have everything that your other women don't." 

After all, it's Irene's competitiveness kicking in, and Wendy couldn't understand why she would feel threatened. She won't ask that though, Irene would never admit she's threatened by other girls.

"O-other women?! There's no such thing! Are you sure you're not jealous?" Wendy teased.

"Why would I be? I'm the greatest woman of this generation." She said confidently with a smug look on her face which made Wendy scoffed. She liked it though, Irene with oozing confidence never fail to make her fall for her all over again.

"Yah! Don't judge me!" 

"I don't! I love your confidence.. it's sexy." Wendy scratched the back of her head, shy. Irene smirked.

"Pervert."

"What?! I'm not!"

"What I'm trying to say is.. I have everything... because I have you." Irene smiled at Wendy. It was a true confession that she rarely does. Having Wendy as her partner will forever be her greatest and loved treasure.

"Aw. I'm always accused greasy but you're way beyond my level, Hyun." Wendy was grinning like a fool at Irene's remarks. "I love you, Hyun. Seriously, you don't need to outdo anyone for me. You're perfect as you are, and I fell in love with you like that. Don't mind other people's preferences for me, I have my own mind and heart.. and they all say they choose you." She winked.

"Aish. You're always the winner on this." Irene then get up on her seat and transferred on Wendy's lap. She pecked her lips right away which left both of them in cloud 9. Butterflies in their stomach, there's no way they would fall out of love for each other in this lifetime. They wrapped each other in a warm embrace.

"I love you, Hyun." 

"I love you too. But..."

"But?"

"Taeyeon sunbaenim?!" 

"Huh?!" 

"Seriously?! I thought what you have is only sunbae-hoobae image to the fans?!"

"Y-you're still reading that list?!" Just when Wendy thought everything's over... she sighed... Irene's words really are contradicting to her actions at times. 

"And what's this? There are guys too?!" Irene fumed as she saw the names at the bottom part of the list.

"Aish! Kim Yerim's really out of her mind!!"

Achoo!

"You okay?" Seulgi asked Yeri who just sneezed while they were playing games in Seulgi's room.

"Will you close your mouth when sneezing? It's really not safe even at home. My gosh! This is so unhygienic." Joy scolded while she sprayed the room with air freshener. 

"Why do I feel like my life's being threatened? Should I transfer to another dorm?" Yeri said.

"KIM YERIM!!!"

They heard her name called out by Wendy and Irene.

"I think you should." Seulgi replied with fear of getting involved.

"Don't worry! We'll help you pack!" Joy added.

"You traitors!" Yeri concluded.

Shameless Parents | Wenrene

 "Seungwan sign this.” Irene dropped the Reve Festival Finale album and marker in front of Wendy who just successfully inserted a thread to the needle.

“Ah! Finally!” She smiled cheerfully after she spent some time struggling then greets Irene. “Hi, Unnie!”

Irene sat on the carpeted floor in front of Wendy and looked at her with confusion. She watched the younger girl set aside her sewing materials carefully and attended to the album in front of her.

“Oh, is this the one our manager asked about in our group chat last night? For his close friend?” She then proceeded signing the album even without earning a response from Irene yet.

“Yes it is.” She sighed at her swift action. “Seriously, can you wait for my response before doing something? What if I said no?”

Wendy chuckled when she heard how grumpy Irene sounded, she then set aside the album after she finished signing.

“But you asked me to, so I signed it whether this is the one or not.” Wendy grinned goofily which finally earned a smile from the Irene. “Ah! That’s more like it! Unnie should always smile, you’re more beautiful when smiling.

Irene chuckled, she really is a mess when it comes to a greasy Seungwan.

“What are you sewing anyways?” Irene asked when Wendy turned to her sewing materials to get her job started.

“Yeri said her favorite plushie got a small hole so I’m sewing it before it becomes bigger.”

“Did she asked you to do it?”

“Nope. I presented myself, I like helping.”

“Aish. You’re at it again, spoiling Yeri. She’s a big girl now so you should have made her do it herself.” She said a bit annoyed. Wendy is always so caring and attentive to them that she tends even to their belongings. She's grateful and appreciative of that but sometimes the younger members are taking advantage of her Wendy too much.

“Ah, Unnie sounds like a wife.” Wendy remarked while eyes still on the plushie.

Irene rolled her eyes, she has heard a lot of jokes from her members regarding her age whenever she scolds them but she at least expects Wendy’s joke to be correct, right? What's with wife?

“You mean like a mom?” She corrected.

“Nope. Wife.” Wendy then strayed her eyes away from what she’s doing and looked at Irene with a greasy smile. “My wife.” She winks.

Irene stared at her shortly, fighting back a smile from forming on her face but she miserably failed. She always wanted to show her mature side to her but this highschool girl-like person inside her squealing over her crush always win. Irene came to like.. no... she came to love Wendy’s greasiness and smooth talking over time, she’s just a fool for her. Everything Wendy does makes Irene's heart flutter.

“Aish! Stop it Son Seungwan!”

Wendy chuckled victoriously after Irene blushed furiously, a reaction she feels fulfilled whenever she sees it from her tsundere girlfriend.

“But you like it, Joohyun unnie.”

“You and your greasy ways. Seriously, I’ll be happier if you'll only do that to me.”

“Eh? What do you mean?” Wendy gulped, she feels like she already knows what she’ll bring up.

“Did you really expect I don't know what you’ve been saying to our Luvies on bubble all this time?” Irene said it so calmly that Wendy can't read her real emotions. This is the situation Wendy's most afraid of in the world right now.

“What? I don’t know.” Wendy focused on sewing right after that. She’s feigning ignorance, but it’s better to act this way than to fully accept the consequences of her girlfriend’s jealousy and grudge. It’s not like she really wanted to be greasy to everyone though, it’s just that it already became natural to her. “I really should tone down this habit or I’ll be dead for sure before we reach the altar for our marriage.” She thought nervously to herself.

“Tch. Look at you lying to me when the evidences are out there on the internet!!” She stood up slamming both of her hands on the table making Wendy startled and accidentally pierced the needle to her finger.”

“AH!!” She screamed painfully.

“Oh no! Seungwan-ah! I’m sorry!” Irene’s soft side came out again and rushed to her girlfriend’s side, tending immediately to her bruised finger. She was about to put the finger in her mouth and suck the blood but Wendy stopped her right away.

“Uhm… unnie, you know that won’t help right? And it won’t be hygienic too, we have viruses everywhere. So please, don’t!” Wendy reminded her.

“Oh, sorry. Wait here, I’ll go take the first aid kit.”

“It’s not really something to be worried about though. It’s just a tiny bruise…a dot even.” Wendy then realized that she actually needed Irene’s time away to think of excuses. “…o-okay then, if you really insists. Take your time!"

“Seriously Seungwan-ah, whatever happens to you is my responsibility. You’re mine so I don’t want you getting hurt or it’ll hurt me too. I'm such an awful girlfriend, I hurt you of all people.” Irene was having her drama scene and continuously talked to Wendy while she was rummaging through her drawers in her bedroom, she was the keeper of the first aid kit for the entire group anyways. Wendy on the other hand was left in the living area and was too focused on her own mind to hear Irene. Wendy's currently using the best capacity of her brain to find an excuse before Irene comes back.

It only took a few minutes before Irene came back to Wendy’s side who’s looking pale and sweating hard now.

“Seungwan, does it hurt that bad for a needle? Why are you so pale? Should we go to the hospital? I’m so sorry, it’s all my fault.” Irene was already becoming teary eyed which made the latter aware of the situation and panicked. Wendy never wants to see her cry.

“Oh no! Wait, Joohyun unnie, I am fine! You don’t have to worry! Look!” She shook her hand vigorously to state her point while she forcefully smiled but then Irene was already crying as she was not convinced. Wendy embraced her immediately.

“Sorry Joohyunnie, I really am fine. I was just.. kind of.. afraid that you know… you’ll get angry with me because of my greasy self so I was thinking of excuses to say but I can’t think of anything. That's why maybe... I don't look okay?” She confessed nervously.

“You’re really that scared of me, huh?” Irene muffled on Wendy’s shoulder.

“W-well.. only when you’re jealous.. I mean… you don’t talk to me, sleep next to me or let me kiss you or hug you whenever you’re jealous so.. it’s really something to be scared of, right?”

“Ah seriously, this girl. She’s a pro in this.” Irene thought to herself, but she’s relieved that Wendy's fine. 

They let go from their embrace and looked at each other’s eyes. Wendy was smiling the best she could for her girlfriend to cheer up even though she’s still clearly pretty nervous. It successfully made Irene smile though.

“I’m already getting used to you being this greasy you know, I kind of realized how you’re naturally made like that even before we get into a relationship. It’s just that…” Irene paused trying to collect her feelings.

Wendy looked at her attentively waiting for her to finish.

“It’s just that, I’m scared that everyone’s gonna fall for you and you'll leave me in the end.” Irene immediately looked down after she finished her confession to hide her reddish face. She heard her girlfriend chuckle and now she felt even more embarrassed to her.

“Hyun, look at me.” Wendy guided her face for their eyes to meet.

“Trust me. Even if they all fall for me I'd still choose you, 'coz you're the one I love. You’re the only person I have in my heart and in my mind that I wanted to marry in the future and spend my whole life with. So it’s really impossible for me to fall for someone else and leave you.”

“Seungwan-ah..”

Just when they're about to get intimate, their moment halted when they heard murmuring voices coming from the wall behind them.

“And they were about to kiss…”

“Should we play Wendy unnie’s latest OST? Two Words?”

“Oh I love that, it’s so good.”

“Ah seriously these kids.” Irene said dejectedly, and Wendy laughed at her reaction. They did not notice that the three were watching them all along. Wendy and Irnee were having their moment here and yet these three won’t give them alone time and space.

“Don’t get mad at them though.” As usual Wendy is still forgiving, even though she honestly wanted to taste Irene’s alluring lips after her confession. Why do these three always come out from hiding in a wrong timing? Just when they're about to kiss? She could only sigh now.

“So what’s the title of this kdrama we’re watching live?” Yeri asked on the side.

“Uhm.. how about ‘The Shameless Parents’?” Joy responded nonchalantly gaining a nod from the two.

"Ah! That's so on point. They have no shame being intimate with each other knowing there are innocent kids around." Yeri playfully looked at them with a disgusted look. 

“Something’s lacking though.” Seulgi posed like she was thinking hard.

“What?” The maknaes asked.

“Should we call for an audition for the second lead? You know, second lead syndrome is a trend these days.”

“Good idea!” Joy said playfully clapping like a seal. The excitement was real but little do they know Irene’s veins in her head are already about to pop. She’s furious, she doesn’t want to share Seungwan.

“I think Wendy unnie has a lot of great candidates, should we call BP’s Rose or Gugudan’s Sejeong?” Yeri suggested.

“YAH! KIM YERIM! SEW YOUR OWN PLUSHIE!!!” Wendy finally loses it and screamed at the top of her lungs.