Chapter 34: Crazy Talk

Chapter 34: Crazy Talk

If I had to pick the toughest period while attending university, it would obviously be the exam period.

Just moving from one classroom to another, you could see students whispering and talking about various exam-related matters.

It is also a time when the Bamboo Forest online community is particularly active.

Yawn.

I, too, was preoccupied with studying for the midterms.

But there was this discomfort.

I wish I had some friends at times like these.

I regretted not having anyone to get lecture notes or similar help from.

In the first semester, my ex-girlfriend, Oh Yoon-ji somehow managed to get them, and I remembered studying hard for the exams.

But this time, without such help, I need to do well on my own.

Ah, whats the scope of this again?

The important thing is that I failed to properly check the scope of the exam. But I couldnt solely blame myself for this.

It was because of Choi Yiseo and Seo Yerin that I missed the lecture content at 9 a.m. on Tuesday.

Normally, I would have contacted Choi Yiseo, who is easy to talk to, but recently things have been vague between us.

Should I say that she was avoiding me?

Just what happened in the gym?

Anyway, its clear that something happened.

I thought about reaching out again by using the exam period as an excuse.

After all, I wanted to avoid any misunderstandings building up.

For now, she might be in a lecture so I decided to contact her later.

I was passing by the English Literature Department office, planning to eat kimbap that I bought from the convenience store in the University where my next lecture would be.

In front of me was Choi Yiseo, with an awkward sigh and a pile of boxes and tapping on her phone.

What is it?

Eik!

She didnt see me coming so she freaked out and hunched when I spoke to her. Her reaction was funny but I tilted my head in confusion, looking at the luggage.

Whats all this?

The professor brought some stuff which could be used for the festival.

The professor brought something usable for the festival?

Well, you know, like souvenirs he picked up while traveling? He said to hang them up if we set up a stall.

Seriously, he sticks his nose into everything.

Thanks to that, were going to end up with a stall with a unique atmosphere. I hope it doesnt have anything like creepy voodoo dolls or bizarre masks.

So we need to put this up in the department storage. Which is why Im gathering people.

Ah, right.

I nod my head and back away.

I thought I should try talking to Choi Yiseo just a moment ago, but now Ive changed my mind.Visit no(v)eLb(i)n.com for the best novel reading experience

It wouldnt be bad to keep some distance.

Thinking that getting closer to her might lead to unnecessary trouble, I wave my hand.

I see. Then, do well.

I naturally went towards the vending machine, thinking about buying some juice.

Thud.

Choi Yiseos hand landed on my shoulder as she mumbled softly.

Got one.

Let go.

English Literature, Class of 23, Kim Woojin.

I havent eaten anything yet.

A coincidence, neither have I.

Looking at Choi Yiseo, who was determined not to let go, I sigh and bring up the thorn between us.

You, we never talked about it before.

Euk.

You only call me when you need something, right?

Upon hearing those words, Choi Yiseo hesitantly lowered her hand. It seemed she was aware of what she had been doing until now.

Its not on purpose. I just need some time to organize my thoughts.

Time to organize her thoughts?

It really sounded like there was something happening.

Um, how about we move this first and then talk? Maybe over lunch if youre okay with it.

Phew, go inside and fetch the list of English department students.

What?

Hurry.

There isnt enough information.

Is the girl pretty?

Choi Yiseo momentarily grimaces, looking at me with disgust.

Shes pretty.

And yet, she answers.

Very pretty.

A very pretty girl suddenly asks me to come to a hotel? Is this a scam or cult?

It shouldnt be I guess?

Thats what I thought.

Its nothing serious.

Where is she then?

Uh?

We have to go now. Woah, Im excited.

I should pay for the hotel. Youre saying shes very pretty. And its been a while since Ive had a girlfriend

Thud!

Choi Yiseos fist swung swiftly.

But this time, as I was expecting it, I was able to block with my palm.

Haha! Predictable.

Ehh!

After bickering back and forth several times, an exhausted Choi Yiseo huffs and asked,

Youll really go? Even though shes not your girlfriend?!

So a one night stand then or maybe it will turn into friends with benefits?

Th-that one!

Choi Yiseo agreed when I hit the right mark.

Unsure what kind answer she was looking for,

We need to go. Even if it means skipping class.

Not all men might be like this, but probably most would go? Its because a really pretty girl is tempting me. For me, I would go.

If I had a girlfriend, I would obviously refuse, but thats not the case.

Perhaps it was because I answered her question seriously, the expression of Choi Yiseo who initially glared at me turned to one with disgust and then to seriousness.

R-right, I see.

Choi Yiseo, who now seemed to have realized something, also appeared sad.

Thank you for being honest.

Seeing her clench her fist, I felt a bit of pity and wondered why she was doing this.

Now explain, why did you have to ask me this question?

Sigh.

I shrugged the shoulders and looked at Choi Yiseo, who couldnt answer.

You arent seriously suggesting we go to a hotel, are you? Are you looking up places online?

No!

Shh, damn.

You son of!

Eventually, unable to overcome the embarrassment, Choi Yiseo stood up with her fist raised.

As I raised both hands to block, with each punch Choi Yiseos strength gradually weakened.

And then, at some point, she placed her hand on my arm which was blocking.

Yerin

She asked in a choked voice.

Is it true about you two being friends with benefits?

..

..

Me?

Y-yes.

After sighing, I stood up.

So, does it mean that I can go to a hotel with Seo Yerin?

When I asked seriously, Choi Yiseos fists started raining down on me again.