[Ham Seoyeon]

Duho has taken the bait so far with the first letter. I plan to write another one, of course. But, first, I must make sure he acknowledges Kkotnim's presence. She can't just be a figment of my imagination.

"She has to stand out, be as different as you as possible, but at the same time recognizable enough for us." Yujin's suggestion confuses me. I understand the first part, but not the one citing that she and the others still have to grasp that I'm the one hiding behind the Kkotnim persona.

"Recognizable enough for you? Explain yourself. I think I'm missing something."

Yujin doesn't answer. Chaeyoung does instead, letting out a heavy groan. "It's not that difficult. She means, 'don't turn into someone completely different.' Is that clear?"

While I'm relieved I got it, I don't like Chaeyoung's tone and rightfully point it out. "I'm starting to hate your attitude somehow. Let me tell you."

Out of a sudden, she turns defensive. "No, no, it's not what you think. I-"

I interrupt her in the same rude way she addressed me before. "I have to go now. I've got a new letter to write." I say my goodbyes to all my friends, but only Yujin and Sangcheol respond. It's safe to say there's something deeply wrong between me and Chaeyoung.

No matter how many things I have to juggle, I must find time to address this matter too. She's one of my best friends—losing her might hit hard unless I make the right steps. I don't know if she's on the same wavelength as me, though.

All I hope is that this is just a temporary crisis and that we can sort our differences out. I don't want our friend group to be destroyed merely out of pride. If anything wrong happens, it'll be mainly my fault and I'll have to own it with no deflection.

***

I take a look at the newest items at the thrift shop; at first, just because I'm bored and need a distraction. However, something dawns in my mind. Yujin advised me to make my Kkotnim persona different from the real me.

So, why not a disguise? It's perfect to distinguish my alter ego from me, it requires me to be creative and, most importantly, while it still takes some effort to pull it off perfectly, it doesn't necessarily requires me to give Duho the silent treatment.

The first item that catches my attention is a blonde wig. Wavy, luscious, with bangs on one side. It matches the idea of Kkotnim I've built in my mind. The wig isn't enough, though. I need something more, like some nice accessories. This is why I rejoice when I see a vast assortment of ribbons and beads.

I also need new shoes and a couple of outfits that steer clear from my usual style. So, frills, lace and puffy sleeves. I'm confident what I choose looks good on me. I complete everything with a pair of black Mary Janes.

When I head to the counter to pay the items I buy, the cashier asks me in shock, "Woah! Are you planning to do a makeover?" I just wink at him; I don't give him a straight answer. If I want to surprise Duho, I can't have anyone know about the disguise.

I pay and leave the shop, making sure no-one sees what's inside the black bag the shop gave me to store the items I bought. Now that I'm certain I'm not crossing paths with anyone I know, I can head back home and try the look for my new alter ego.

***

I twirl as I look myself in the mirror. Duho will only have eyes for me. There's no way he can reject me without getting to know me better if this plan works. On the other hand, I still maintain a careful approach. A slip up can blow the cover.

The moment I leave my room and head to the campus, no-one recognizes me. My heavy make-up works so well that I have people wondering where I come from. This will confuse the others, but it will be worth the effort to conquer Duho's heart.

Naturally, when he sees me in my new look, he doesn't know I'm the one hiding behind the disguise. Instead, he thinks I'm an exchange student. Since it's crucial for me not to be caught at this stage, I play along. "Good morning, I'm new here," I say as he flashes his most charming smile.

"In that case, welcome! I'm Soon Duho. What about you?" He sounds dazzling when introducing himself. Exactly as others portray him. So, why was he so cold with the real me? Well, I guess it doesn't really matter. He's here, next to me, talking nicely to me. Okay, to my alter ego. But does it make it any different?

"Oh Kkotnim. Pleased to meet you." I carefully bow before him, paying attention not to let my wig fall. He helps me stand back straight, then offers his hand, which I shake.

"Come on. Let me guide you through the campus." I accept his suggestion and follow him through the halls and rooms, pretending not to know this place at all. To be fair, there are a few areas that have been left unexplored. Thanks to Duho, I discover a hidden study room that has barely been used so far.

I also find out where the most coveted, sought after vending machine is. "So, this is where most students line up on Fridays?" I ask, maintaining an innocent look.

Duho's answer comes with a soft grin. "Yeah. It's kind of a lottery, but it's rewarding when you get exactly what I want. Shall we try?" Since there's no-one else, I say yes.

He inserts two bills in the machine and pays two different items: an iced tea for me and a kombucha for himself. "Thank you so much! How do you know I love tea?" If I could, I'd kiss him straight away. However, I still must maintain some self restraint.

One step at a time. This approach always works. No rushing things.

Duho and I leave the area as we quietly sip our drinks and continue our tour. "Are you ready for the last room?"

"I can't wait to find out what awaits us." I'm surprised to find out Duho's daredevil side. He has always given me the impression of someone prim and proper. Is this the sign that he's opening up? I can't be cocky, though. I have to keep up my plan if I want to capture his heart.

The so-called "last room" is beyond imagination. It's adorned with paintings in all styles and dimensions. Together, they form a tapestry of colors and shapes. A manifesto of creativity in all senses of the term.

Duho points at an abstract portrait, which leaves me open mouthed. "This is me!" What? Who drew him? I need to find out who's the artist who was inspired enough to choose him as the subject of their work of art.

Duho frowns at me. "Come on! Don't tell me you don't know—this is my self portrait! I imagined myself carried by the force of insanity while trying to escape it." Okay. Now it all makes sense. It's like he's caged in a prison built of pressure and high expectations.

This painting was likely his first step towards his liberation. I wonder what are, or were, the next ones.