[Soon Duho]

Who's this Oh Kkotnim girl? Have I seen her anywhere? Is that a name I've heard before? So many questions, so few answers... Digging up information about her is also an uphill battle. She doesn't seem to have social networks. I looked her up on Facebook, X and Instagram—nothing.

I also ask around to see if anyone knows her. Of course, I mostly receive negative answers. It's clear I have a lot to do if I want to find out who she is. I have to start replying to her letters, asking as many questions I can to drive her out.

Even when I physically describe her and her style, everyone is puzzled. Some start making fun of me, citing an alleged "imaginary girlfriend" living in my mind. I'm not crazy, though. Kkotnim exists. She isn't just a figment of my imagination.

I can't be distracted now, anyway. My current focus has to be on the upcoming student council meeting. There's a lot on the plate: clubs, the budget for the events planned in the next weeks, renovations in the study rooms and so much more.

The last thing I need to be involved with is drama.

***

I'm disappointed. I expected the meeting to be productive, to tackle topics such as budget management and event planning. Instead, only five minutes were dedicated to these crucial matters. The rest were occupied by... gossip.

It felt more like a cheap talk show. Not a place where to discuss the issues the campus faces in a civil and respectful manner. On one hand, I'd like to give up because it's clear most members of the student council are only in for personal glory.

On the other hand, I just can't quit. Who will fight the battles that need to be carried on in order for improvement to take place if I step back? Plus, I've been taught that quitters are always losers. So, one step at a time. The next session will be better. It can't go any worse, or can it?

So, I take advantage of the general mess to stop someone on their tracks and ask about Kkotnim's whereabouts. The answer is the usual: negative. At this point, it's clear she's a mysterious person who doesn't like being in the limelight as much as one may think based on her flashy outfit.

Well, this is a point in her favor. Like her, I'm not exactly the kind of person who's easygoing and stands out among others for charisma. I'm more of an introspective type. No wonder giving Kkotnim the tour of the campus hasn't been awkward for me.

As I prepare to leave the campus for the day and go back to my apartment, I overhear two distinct voices, a woman and a man. All I can catch is, 'Imagine what Duho expects next... Soon, he'll be even closer to me than I could ever think.'

I make three steps forward and hear the voices louder and clearer. 'Shh... Keep it down! Do you want to get caught?'

'Come on... Let's go. We have to prepare for the next part of-'

'The next part of what? You're worrying me. Please, be clearer-'

What are they talking about? What's so important that they have to keep it secret? Can't they be open when it comes to their intentions? I guess it's nothing trivial, though, since the girl has explicitly mentioned my name.

I make ten steps forward without any expectations of what comes next. Then, there they are. Kkotnim and Sangcheol. The distance between the two of them is almost non existent, as if they're already intimate. I need an explanation. I need answers. Now.

"Oh, Duho, hi, I'm surprised you're still here." Sangcheol is lost for words. Why do I feel like he wishes I wouldn't be here? Is he also into Kkotnim? Am I already jealous of them? Okay, I need to stop and regain my composure before I make a fool out of myself.

The two of them leave together, giggling like idiots. It sounds bad to say, but there has to be more between them. As much as I'd like to deny, jealousy has started growing in me. If I don't find a remedy quickly, I'll end up burning out because of my feelings.

***

Alone in my room, I start pondering on what should be my next move. I have to let out the frustration caused by the mess that unveiled in front of me just a few minutes ago. What did Kkotnim and Sangcheol feel the need to discuss in secret?

What answer should I expect the moment I ask her that dreaded question? Will she take it well? Will she have a bad reaction? To find out, the best way has to reach out to her. In other words, I decide to reply to the letter she left for me, which I read and still keep with me as a fond memory.

As for the answer, I imprint it in paper. I want Kkotnim to know what I felt when I found her letter and, most importantly, when I gave her the tour of the campus. I can't let what seems to be a simple misunderstanding ruin everything.

Therefore, I pour it all through ink, transmitting both the good moment we spent together and the emotions that guided me in that special encounter. It takes me a while, approximately two hours and a half, but it's worth it.

'Dear Kkotnim,
I've read your first letter. It has touched me to an extent that I need to see you again, especially after I showed you around.

It was a pleasant experience. We discovered places I thought were secret together. We started getting to know each other. Damn, I even think we had our fair share of laughter.

However, there's a still feeling I can't shake. When I caught you close to Sangcheol, whispering something as if you two were speaking in code, suspicion was growing in me. Does he already know you? If so, when did you meet?

Sorry if I sound anxious, but I really need an answer, and I'm sure you will give me one. Just one little thing: promise me you'll be honest. You're the first girl who has truly caught my attention, so I hope you're not too good to be true.

Looking forward to seeing you again.

Best wishes,
Soon Duho.'

I fold the letter and find a nice envelope where to stuff it. I write two simple words that, however, carry a lot of meaning. 'To Kkotnim.' It may sound vague, but it won't be for her. It will be only in case anyone who's not her finds the missive by chance.

The envelope then takes place in my backpack, among my books, until when it's time to leave it somewhere for Kkotnim to see. Too bad she hasn't got her own locker yet. I need to find a different place, hoping no-one else sets their eyes on it.

I'll take care of that matter tomorrow. Now, I need to rest and unwind a little bit. So, a quick shower, then dinner and an evening in front of my favorite shows. Considering I have to catch up on a lot of them, why not tonight?

If I could, I'd invite Kkotnim to join me. It's too early, though. We've barely started an epistolary exchange and I've only shown her around the campus. Not enough for us to start having real dates just yet. Slow but steady is the best approach to go for with a girl. Any other will just lead to failure.