Courage, Dear Heart (Liskook ff)

(54) JIROSE

ROSE's POV

My aunt just texted me that she wanted to meet me tonight. I wonder what was her reason. I guess I just have to come for me to find out. Lisa also called me but I didn't able to answer it for I was in my bed the whole day. I wanted to sleep until I feel better because sleep just wasn't sleep anymore, it was an escape for me now.

These past few days were never been easy for me. My eyelids were heavy but my thoughts were heavier. My girls really tried to call me just to make sure if I'm feeling okay. They asked, "how are you doing?" but what they meant was "are you over it yet?". Of course as a friend who didn't want to be a bothersome, my lips just always said, "I'm fine, so don't you girls worry about me. Just celebrate this season happily with your loved ones". But I know for a fact that my eyes told a different story, my heart sang a different tune and my soul just wept.

I was about to call back Lisa but I just decided not to. Maybe she's now on her way to her date when I noticed the time. Well, I wish my friend a good luck for tonight. As much as I wanted to stay in my bed, I forcefully pulled myself out and got ready to meet my aunt. I drove to the address that she sent me. Luckily, I arrived on time.

"Hi Chae, it's been a while" my aunt greeted me as soon as she saw me in the entrance.

"Hello Aunt Bom. I missed you" I said as I gave her a quick hug.

"I'm glad you're free to meet me."

"Of course aunt. Even if I'm not, I would still come to meet you"

"Let's go and have some dinner first before I gave you something" then she placed her right hand at my back, motioning me to get inside.

We took a lift and made our way through the 23rd floor. Many people were being gathered here as they were celebrating the Christmas eve. Smiles and laughters of everyone filled the place.

"Chae, stay here for a while. I'll just confirm our reservation" I nodded as she left me for a moment.

Families and couples everywhere were swarming the banquet hall as they were cheerfully enjoying the korean feast they just ordered. I suddenly missed my family. I just left them a message earlier but still no response from them until now. Maybe, they were just busy and still at work.

"Chae, come!" my aunt called as she waved at me to our seat.

"You like korean food so much so I decided to take you here"

"Thank you Aunt Bom. But you know you didn't have to do this" I said as our orders were starting to arrive.

"Well I have to because you're my favorite niece and besides your mother wants me to" she said, getting something out on her bag.

"My mom? She talked to you? Just when?" my ears perked up as soon as I heard the word 'mother'

"Just this morning" she said with a genuine smile on her face. I suddenly felt lonelier when I realized that my mom talked to her just this morning. Why didn't she answer my message then?

"Your family wants me to give you this" she said as she handed me a white envelope.

"What is this?" I accepted it, confused.

"Just open it carefully my dear"

I did what she told me. I slowly opened the envelope and I didn't expect what was inside. I can't believe this.