𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐖𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐘-𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓. will i ever see you again?

JIEUN RELISHED THE SIMPLE PLEASURE IN THE warmth of the sun, her sanctuary being the poolside where she could immerse herself in tranquility. As she reclined on her lounge chair, the gentle caress of the sun's rays enveloped her, casting a golden hue upon her skin. The brilliance of the sun seemed to dance upon the surface of the water, creating a mesmerizing display that beckoned her to immerse herself in its cool embrace. Despite the summer heat, the water offered a refreshing respite, its coolness a stark contrast to the sun's fiery touch.

Yet amidst the serenity, there lingered an undercurrent of apprehension within Jieun's thoughts. She couldn't shake the unease that gripped her whenever the possibility of encountering Robby arose. The mere thought of him arriving at the pool sent a shiver down her spine, a fear rooted in the complexities of their past interactions. She found herself torn between the desire to enjoy her solitude and the dread of facing him again.

From a distance, Jieun observed the familiar figures of Moon, Yasmine, and Sam, their laughter and playful banter echoing across the poolside oasis.

As she watched them, a sense of longing tugged at her heart, yearning for the comfort of their companionship yet hesitant to disturb the sanctuary she had carved out for herself.

In the sunlight, their silhouettes seemed to flicker like mirages, distant yet tantalizingly close, reminding her of the delicate balance between solitude and connection in the tapestry of her outdoor haven.

Amid her tranquil reverie, Jieun found herself grappling with a bittersweet pang of nostalgia for the friendships she held dear. Moon and Yasmine, in particular, had been constants in her life, their bond forged through shared experiences and unspoken understandings.

Memories of their laughter and shared secrets flooded her mind, a testament to the depth of their connection.

She recalled the joyous laughter that echoed off the pool's surface as they played volleyball under the summer sun. "Remember when we couldn't stop laughing because Buttercup kept missing the ball?" Jieun chuckled to herself, the memory bringing a warm smile to her lips.

Moon, who had been sunbathing nearby, turned to Jieun with a grin. "Oh, how could I forget that? Her volleyball skills left much to be desired," she teased, her eyes twinkling with mirth.

Yasmine, who had been dozing off on her towel, stirred at the mention of her name. "Hey, I heard that!" she exclaimed with a mock offended tone, eliciting laughter from her friends. The trio reminisced about their carefree days by the pool, recounting tales of sun-soaked afternoons and impromptu swimming races. "I had bruises for days." Yasmine sighed wistfully, her gaze fixed on the rippling water.

Jieun nodded, her heart swelling with affection for her dear friends. "Nothing beats spending time with you two," she said, her voice tinged with sentimentality. As they exchanged fond memories and shared laughter, Jieun couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of gratitude for their enduring bond.

Now, back in the present, though Tory filled her days with warmth and affection, there remained a void that only the presence of her two longtime friends could fill.

Tory was undeniably a pillar of support in Jieun's life, offering unwavering companionship and understanding.

Yet, the connection with Moon and Yasmine held an irreplaceable charm. Despite the passage of time and the shifting dynamics within their circle, the bond between the trio remained resilient, their history too intricate to be unraveled by mere distance or time apart.

Observing the interactions between Moon, Yasmine, and Sam from her vantage point by the pool, Jieun couldn't help but feel a twinge of fear. The newfound closeness between her cherished friends and Sam, coupled with her notorious reputation for gossip, stirred a sense of unease within her.

Yet, amidst the uncertainty, there was ease in the warmth of Moon's friendly demeanor, a beacon of familiarity in the ever-changing landscape of their relationships.

Despite the whispers of doubt that lingered in her mind, Jieun clung to the hope that the bonds they shared would endure, anchoring her to the cherished memories of their shared past.

As she pondered the complexities of their friendships, Jieun couldn't help but feel a tinge of guilt for her alienation from Sam. While Moon's friendliness offered a glimmer of reconciliation, the divide between herself and Sam seemed impossible.

Memories of past misunderstandings and hurtful words lingered in the recesses of her mind, casting a shadow over any possibility of reconciliation.

As Jieun reclined on her lounge chair, enjoying the gentle embrace of the sun's warmth, a sudden shadow fell across her, blocking the sunlight. Startled, she opened her eyes to find herself face-to-face with Yujin. His chiseled features, with tousled dark hair and captivating eyes, seemed to hold a world of mysteries.

Yujin flashed her a friendly smile, his slight dimples deepening as he greeted her. "Mind if I join you?" he asked, his voice smooth like honey.

Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Jieun found herself momentarily speechless. She couldn't help but admire the way the sunlight played off his features, casting a golden halo around him. "Uh, sure, go ahead," she finally managed to reply, her cheeks flushing with a hint of embarrassment.

Yujin settled onto the empty lounge chair beside her, his easygoing demeanor putting Jieun at ease. Jieun found herself drawn to his magnetic presence. There was something about him that exuded charm and charisma.

As they sat in comfortable silence, Jieun couldn't shake the feeling of familiarity that washed over her in Yujin's presence. Despite their chance encounter by the pool, it felt as though they had known each other for far longer. Lost in the moment, her worries and anxieties melted away in his company.

As Jieun found herself face to face with Yujin, her mind couldn't help but replay the complicated web of connections that tied them together. Their acquaintance traced back to Ben, the man who had once cared for both of them, albeit in different degrees.

Yet, despite this shared link, there lingered an undeniable tension between the two, a palpable friction that simmered beneath the surface.

"Why the sudden change of heart, Yujin?" Jieun's voice was laced with skepticism as she questioned his unexpected appearance by her side, her brows furrowing in confusion. She couldn't shake the nagging suspicion that his presence was more than just a coincidence, especially given their tumultuous history.

Yujin's expression remained unreadable as he met her gaze, a hint of guardedness flickering in his eyes. "Just thought I'd offer some company," he replied vaguely, though his tone lacked conviction, betraying the underlying tension between them.

Jieun couldn't help but feel a pang of unease at his ambiguous response, her mind racing with unanswered questions. The memory of the recent tournament loomed large in her thoughts, a stark reminder of the divisions that had emerged between them.

She had chosen to align herself with Ben's faction, a decision that had undoubtedly strained her already fragile relationship with Yujin and Robby.

Yet, what puzzled Jieun even more was Yujin's uncanny knowledge of her departure just before the match. His awareness of her actions raised suspicions in her mind, stirring a sense of mistrust that only served to deepen the rift between them. As she grappled with conflicting emotions, Jieun couldn't help but wonder if there was more to Yujin's sudden interest in her than met the eye.

The tension between Jieun and Yujin was palpable, thickening the air around them with an unspoken wariness. Memories of their past encounters mingled with the present moment, casting a shadow over their interactions. And still, Jieun couldn't shake the feeling that there was a hidden agenda lurking behind Yujin's friendly facade, a nagging doubt that gnawed at the edges of her consciousness.

Jieun couldn't help but replay the events of the tournament in her mind.

The rift between Scorpion's Eye, Coba Kai, and Miyagi Do had intensified in the heat of competition, fracturing alliances and testing loyalties. In choosing to stand by Ben's side, Jieun had unwittingly placed herself at odds with Yujin and Robby, igniting a spark of animosity that threatened to consume their already fragile bond.

Despite her efforts to bury the hatchet and move forward, the wounds of the past still festered beneath the surface, raw and unresolved. Jieun couldn't help but wonder what had prompted Yujin to seek her out now, of all times, his motives shrouded in mystery. Was it merely a chance encounter, or was there a deeper significance to his sudden presence by the poolside?

Lost in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions, Jieun struggled to make sense of the tangled web of alliances and betrayals that defined their shared history. As she navigated the murky waters of their strained relationship, she couldn't help but long for the simplicity of the bonds she once shared with Moon and Yasmine.

Yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, one thing remained clear ― until the truth behind Yujin's intentions came to light, Jieun would remain wary of the shadows that lurked beneath his enigmatic smile.

Jieun's gaze hardened as she listened to Yujin's words, his insinuations striking a nerve within her. "I chose Ben because he protected me," she retorted, her voice tinged with defiance. "And I only used Cobra Kai to gather information, I never meant to hurt Robby, I know you two are close."

Yujin's expression remained impassive, though a flicker of something akin to understanding flashed in his eyes. "You know, I was Ben's favorite once, too," he remarked coolly, his tone tinged with bitterness. "But if he dropped me just as quickly, why wouldn't he do the same to you?"

Jieun's jaw tightened at the thought of Ben's fickle loyalties, her resolve wavering for a fleeting moment. Yet, she refused to let doubt cloud her judgment, her loyalty to Ben unwavering despite the uncertainties that lingered in the shadows. "I trust Ben," she declared firmly, though her words carried a hint of uncertainty.

Yujin's gaze softened, a semblance of sympathy glimmering in his eyes as he regarded her. "I hope you don't go through what I did," he murmured softly, a note of genuine concern underlying his words.

The mention of Robby's name hung heavy in the air, a painful reminder of the fractured relationships that lay scattered in the wake of their tumultuous past. Jieun's heart ached at the memory of the hurt she had inflicted upon him, the guilt weighing heavily upon her conscience. "I never meant to hurt him," she repeated quietly, her voice laced with remorse.

Yujin's expression softened, his gaze meeting hers with a mixture of understanding and empathy. "I know," he replied softly, a silent acknowledgment of the complexities that bound them together. As they shared a moment of quiet contemplation, Jieun couldn't help but wonder if redemption was possible amidst the tangled web of regrets and betrayals.

Yujin's gaze softened, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope amidst the shadows of their shared past. "Robby may be known to hold grudges forever but," he remarked gently, his tone laced with understanding. "But if you want his forgiveness, you'll have to come clean on everything. Even if it drags me down with you."

Jieun's heart constricted at Yujin's words, the weight of his expectations pressing down upon her like a heavy burden. She knew that confronting the truth would mean unraveling the carefully constructed facade she had woven around herself, exposing the tangled threads of deception and betrayal that lay hidden beneath the surface. And yet, amidst the fear and uncertainty, there flickered a spark of determination within her, a glimmer of hope that redemption was within reach.

"I'll do whatever it takes," she whispered, her voice tinged with resolve. "Even if it means facing the consequences of my actions." As she met Yujin's gaze with unwavering determination, Jieun couldn't help but feel a sense of liberation wash over her, a newfound clarity emerging from the depths of uncertainty.

At that moment, Jieun found solace in the knowledge that forgiveness was not beyond reach. With Yujin's silent support bolstering her resolve, she knew that the path to redemption would be fraught with challenges and sacrifices.

But for the chance to mend the broken bonds of friendship and love, she was willing to brave the storm, no matter the cost.

As the sounds of summer enveloped them, Jieun found herself lost in the cacophony of laughter and splashing water, the world around her a distant blur. She was jolted back to reality by Yujin's voice, his words cutting through the silence like a sharp blade. His question hung in the air, lingering between them like an unspoken challenge.

"Do you like the sun? The hot weather?" Yujin's voice broke the silence, his words laced with curiosity as he took a swig of his Pepsi, a detail that had escaped Jieun's notice until that very moment.

She hesitated, torn between the urge to retreat into her thoughts and the realization that this was perhaps the most they had ever spoken.

Ignoring him felt like the easiest option, a way to shield herself from the vulnerability of conversation. After all, what did she owe him? Their history was fraught with rivalry and animosity, their paths intersecting only in moments of conflict and competition. And yet, despite their differences, here he was, attempting to bridge the divide between them with idle chatter.

But as the seconds stretched into minutes, Jieun couldn't ignore the nagging feeling that she was betraying Ben in some small way. Here she was, engaging in conversation with a boy who should, by all accounts, despise her.

After their intense competition to gain entry into the organization, she couldn't fathom why Yujin would be so open to talking to her now. She had bested him then; he should harbor resentment toward her, not extend an olive branch of friendship.

"You never answer me when I ask about you," Yujin chuckled, his laughter ringing out amidst the ambient noise of the poolside. It was a beautiful sound, she realized, her gaze drifting to him almost involuntarily. "What do you like? Don't you have any hobbies?" he pressed on, his words punctuating the silence like a persistent drumbeat.

Jieun remained silent, feeling as though she were merely a spectator in this strange dance of conversation. Yujin seemed to be talking to himself now, his words flowing effortlessly as if he were trying to fill the void left by her reticence. "Don't tell me karate is all you do. That's a bit miserable, don't ya think?" he remarked, his voice tinged with genuine concern.

Shaking her head, Jieun finally broke her silence, meeting Yujin's gaze with a mixture of resignation and curiosity. "Not really," she admitted quietly, her words hanging in the air like a fragile thread. She once had hobbies and interests that filled her days with joy and purpose. But in the wake of recent events, those passions had faded into obscurity, overshadowed by the weight of her responsibilities and the tumult of her emotions.

Yujin regarded her thoughtfully, his gaze lingering on her with a newfound intensity. It was then that he noticed the beauty in her eyes, the depth of emotion hidden beneath their surface. No wonder Robby had been so lovestruck, he realized, a pang of guilt washing over him at the memory of their fractured relationship.

And had circumstances been different, perhaps Yujin would have been the one to sweep her off her feet first.

"I used to, but not anymore," Jieun confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. The admission hung heavily between them, a testament to the weight of the burdens they both carried. For a moment, they were both quiet, lost in the silent reverie of their shared introspection.

"Then what fun is life?" Yujin's voice broke the silence once more, his frustration evident as he scratched his head in exasperation. He stared at her expectantly, waiting for her response, but Jieun found herself grappling with the weight of his question.

"Is life fun?" she repeated, her tone tinged with bitterness as she pondered the complexities of their existence. In the span of a year, her life had been upended in ways she could never have imagined. She had lost friends, betrayed loved ones, and found herself teetering on the precipice of a reality she could scarcely comprehend. And yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, she had somehow managed to survive.

"Gosh," Yujin muttered under his breath, his frustration palpable as he struggled to break through the walls she had erected around herself. "You're so frustrating," he commented, his voice tinged with a hint of resignation. It was clear that he, too, was grappling with his own demons, his frustration mirroring her own.

"If you don't have any, make some," Yujin declared, his words cutting through the silence with a sense of urgency. "People with lives like ours need time to relax and not think at all." As he spoke, Jieun couldn't help but feel a flicker of something akin to hope to ignite within her, a spark of possibility amidst the darkness that threatened to engulf them both.

At that moment, amidst the chatter and laughter of the poolside oasis, Jieun realized that perhaps there was more to life than the burdens she carried. Perhaps, with Yujin's guidance, she could find a way to rediscover the joy and wonder that had once defined her existence.

And as they sat in silence once more, the promise of a new beginning hung in the air, beckoning them toward a future filled with endless possibilities.

"No, I hate the hot weather. I had to endure it during soccer season," Jieun admitted, a trace of longing creeping into her voice as she recalled the memories of her time on the soccer field. Despite her disdain for the scorching heat, she couldn't deny the thrill of competition and camaraderie that soccer had brought into her life. "I'm more of a winter person, I enjoy the snow."

Yujin nodded thoughtfully, his eyes alight with curiosity as he listened to her. "Sitting on the beach," she interrupted before he could go off on another tangent, remembering a moment shared with Robby during one of his visits to juvie. "I like that," She replied with a smile, his gaze lingering on her with a warmth that took her by surprise.

He then pointed to the sky, a playful glint in his eyes. "How nice would it be looking at the ocean on a day like this, but with snow?" he suggested with a grin, his enthusiasm infectious. She couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of the idea.

"Snow in summer?" She chuckled, shaking her head at the whimsical notion. Yujin joined in her laughter, though there was a hint of sheepishness in his smile as if he had momentarily forgotten the impossibility of his proposal.

"Let's go another time then," he suggested, his tone light as he shifted the conversation to a new topic. "I'm a really good fisher. You can't eat sushi at restaurants after having mine," he boasted proudly, sharing a tidbit about himself in an attempt to lighten the mood.

She couldn't help but notice the subtle game he was playing, the way he seemed to see through her defenses with ease. It unsettled her to be so transparent, especially with someone like Yujin, whose own vulnerabilities mirrored her own in unexpected ways.

"There's no need to try so hard," Jieun remarked, her voice tinged with a hint of frustration. She didn't appreciate how effortlessly Yujin seemed to penetrate her defenses, unraveling the carefully constructed facade she had built around herself. And yet, despite her reservations, she couldn't deny the comfort she found in his presence, the way he seemed to understand her in ways she couldn't quite articulate. "I'm alright."

Yujin's expression grew somber as he moved to sit beside her on her chair, his proximity a silent reassurance amidst the chaos of her thoughts.

From afar, Tory watched them closely, a mix of concern and relief flickering in her eyes. She couldn't quite comprehend the bond that seemed to form between Jieun and Yujin, but she was grateful for it nonetheless.

"You're not alright," Yujin stated softly, his voice tinged with concern as he broached the subject of her father's killer once more. Jieun's gaze darkened at the mention of her father, her emotions roiling beneath the surface like a tempest ready to erupt. Yujin quickly backtracked, sensing her discomfort, and the conversation fell into an uneasy silence.

"Sorry, I should know better than to bring a sensitive topic up." Yujin ventured tentatively, his words hanging in the air. Jieun lowered her head, her silence a tacit admission of the truth that lay buried beneath the weight of her grief and guilt.

Sensing her distress, Yujin wisely chose to let the conversation die, a silent acknowledgment of the wounds that still haunted her. As they sat in the quiet embrace of their shared solitude, Jieun couldn't help but feel a flicker of gratitude for the unexpected companionship of the boy sitting beside her.

Tory subtly inserted herself into the company of the duo, settling onto the pool bench adjacent to them. "Have you spoken to Robby yet?" she whispered, as though shielding her words from Yujin due to his friendship with Robby.

Jieun shook her head, with no intention to engage with him, unaware of his presence until then. Miguel had messaged her shortly after his return from Mexico, detailing the discomfort of the car ride with Robby and Johnny. It was clear from Robby's demeanor that he was reluctant to be there. The unspoken topic in the car hung heavy ― Jieun herself, and whether Robby should broach the subject, considering her close bond with Miguel.

Observing Robby as he scanned the surroundings, Jieun noted his lack of interest in anyone present. His gaze flicked briefly to Sam, but he hesitated, likely aware of Miguel's watchful eye. Their strained dynamic, thanks to Miguel's relationship with Jieun, made any interaction between them feel like navigating a minefield.

Robby reflected on the discomfort of their situation, recalling their past closeness and how Sam had confided in him about her feelings toward the Korean girl and then began to think that while he was with Sam, in love with Jieun.

He scanned the area again, spotting Tory and then Yujin, with Jieun. Seeing her stirred up a torrent of memories, overwhelming him like a tsunami.

He watched her talk, laugh, and smile, her smile captivating him. It pained him to realize that he still harbored feelings for her, a sentiment he never expected to acknowledge. Her voice was like a beacon, drawing him in despite his best efforts to resist.

The realization hit him like a ton of bricks: he was always in love with her. It was a truth he had tried to bury deep down, but seeing her again brought it all rushing back to the surface. Robert Swayze Keene found himself unexpectedly in love with Jieun Kang.

Unbeknownst to him, as he observed her, she met his gaze, holding it until he averted his eyes.

The memories of their shared moments flooded back, mingling with the realization that he was still drawn to her. It was a bittersweet realization, knowing that their past could never be reclaimed.

Jieun, oblivious to Robby's inner turmoil, continued to converse with Yujin and Tory, her laughter ringing out in the warm afternoon air.

Robby's heart ached with longing as he watched her, torn between the desire to approach her and the fear of what might happen if he did.

At that moment, he felt trapped by the weight of their shared history, unsure of how to move forward. But one thing was certain: his feelings for Jieun hadn't faded, no matter how hard he had tried to forget them.

As he sat there, engulfed in the tumultuous whirlwind of emotions, memories flooded his mind like a relentless tide crashing against the shores of his consciousness. Each recollection was a dagger, piercing through the fragile facade of indifference he had desperately crafted over time.

He remembered the way Jieun's laughter had once filled the empty spaces of his heart, how her smile had illuminated even the darkest corners of his existence. Their shared moments, once cherished like rare treasures, now haunted him with their bittersweet echoes.

But intertwined with those memories were the jagged edges of pain, the shards of betrayal that had shattered his trust. The echoes of her whispered promises now rang hollow in his ears, mocking reminders of the deception that had torn them apart.

He had tried to bury his feelings beneath layers of resentment, to suffocate the flames of longing with the icy embrace of indifference. Yet, despite his efforts, the embers of his love for Jieun refused to be extinguished, burning brighter with each passing moment.

Caught between the torment of the past and the uncertainty of the future, he felt as though he were standing on the precipice of a chasm, the abyss yawning hungrily beneath him. How could he move forward when every step he took only seemed to lead him deeper into the labyrinth of his own emotions?

In that moment of agonizing clarity, he realized that he was truly trapped ― not by the weight of their shared history alone, but by the inescapable grasp of his own heart. And as he gazed into the abyss, he knew that the path ahead would be fraught with peril, for to love Jieun was to invite devastation upon his soul once more.

Just as he sat there, lost in the swirling tempest of his thoughts, the tranquility of the moment shattered like fragile glass. The air crackled with tension as the distant murmur of raised voices escalated into a cacophony of anger.

Turning his gaze toward the source of the commotion, he saw his past Cobra Kai members gathered by the poolside, their faces contorted with fury, their fists clenched in righteous indignation. A heated argument had erupted among them, fueled by simmering resentments and long-buried grievances.

Instinctively, he moved toward them, his heart heavy with a sense of foreboding.

Harsh words were exchanged like weapons in a battle of wills, each barb cutting deeper than the last.

For a moment, he hesitated, unsure of how to intervene in the maelstrom of emotions that raged before him. But then, with a surge of determination, he stepped forward, his voice ringing out above the din.

"Stop!" he shouted, his words echoing through the chaos. "Guys, stop. Stop!" His plea hung in the air, a fragile thread of hope amidst the madness.

From a distance, Jieun and Yujin observed the chaos unfolding among them with a mixture of concern and resignation. People crowded around them and cast their long shadows across their faces.

A sense of déjà vu washed over them. They had been here before, caught in the crossfire of conflicts that were not their own, their hearts heavy with the burden of unspoken truths.

But if there was one thing they had learned from their tumultuous journey with Ben, it was that sometimes, the greatest battles were the ones fought within oneself. They had seen firsthand the devastation wrought by interference in matters that did not concern them, the wounds inflicted by misplaced loyalty and misguided intentions.

And so, as they watched the conflict unfold before them, a silent understanding passed between them ― a shared acknowledgment of the futility of getting involved in a battle that was not their own.

For they knew to choose their battles wisely.

With a silent understanding, they turned away from the chaos, Tory had joined in now, the Cobra Kai being half of the conflict. Miguel as well. And though the echoes of the dispute lingered in the air like a haunting melody, they stared on, guided by the quiet resolve that burned within their hearts.

The sudden appearance of the lifeguard sent shockwaves through them. His authoritative voice cut through the air like a sharp blade, commanding attention as he yelled for the tumult to cease.

"Hey, stop it right now!" the lifeguard bellowed, his voice booming across the water. With swift strides, he approached the altercation, his gaze stern and unwavering. "This is a pool, not a boxing ring. I won't tolerate this kind of behavior here."

The shrill blast of his whistle pierced the air, its piercing sound a reminder of the rules that managed this sanctuary of water and relaxation. With each blast, the tension in the air seemed to dissipate, replaced by a sense of uneasy compliance.

"If you can't behave yourselves," the lifeguard continued, his tone laced with authority, "then I'll have no choice but to kick you all out of here. Is that what you want?"

His words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of consequence. For a moment, there was silence as the gravity of the situation sank in. Slowly, begrudgingly, the combatants began to relent, their fists unclenching and their voices falling silent.

With a satisfied nod, the lifeguard turned to survey the scene, his expression stern but not unkind. "That's better. Now, I expect all of you to calm down and enjoy the rest of your evening. And remember, no more fighting."

As he retreated back to his post, the tension that had gripped the poolside began to ebb away, replaced by a weary sense of resignation. And though the conflict had been quelled for now, the echoes of its aftermath lingered in the air.

A few moments passed, and Jieun watched another scene unfold before her, a wave of frustration washed over her like a tide crashing against the shore. The peaceful evening she had yearned for had quickly devolved into a series of chaotic confrontations, each more unsettling than the last.

With a heavy sigh, she reluctantly joined the exodus of disgruntled patrons, who all got kicked out from another fight starting. Over a deflated donut float.

Her footsteps were slow and measured as she made her way toward the exit. The warmth of the summer air felt stifling against her skin, a stark contrast to the cool embrace of the water she had hoped to enjoy.

As she reached the parking lot, her eyes caught sight of Tory and Robby engaged in a heated exchange, their voices raised in anger. Though she was too far away to discern the specifics of their conversation, the tension between them was palpable, hanging in the air like a storm cloud on the horizon.

For a moment, Jieun hesitated, unsure of whether to intervene or walk away. But then, curiosity got the better of her, compelling her to linger at a safe distance, her gaze fixed on the unfolding drama before her.

As the argument between Tory and Robby escalated, Jieun couldn't help but feel a pang of empathy for them both.

"This is what happens when Cobra Kai's involved. Everybody loses," Robby asserted, his tone edged with bitterness.

Tory bristled at the accusation, her defenses rising. "Are you trying to blame me for getting us kicked out? I was trying to stop a fight, not start one."

Robby shook his head, his expression grim. "I know you won the tournament, and everything's going good for you right now, but by defending them, you're part of the problem."

"I was just hoping we could have a fun day." She interjected, her voice soft but firm. "But I guess that's impossible."

Robby turned to face Tory, his eyes flashing with irritation. As the argument between Tory and Robby intensified, Robby's frustration bubbled to the surface, and he seized upon an opportunity to redirect the blame.

For a moment, it seemed as though she wanted to step forward and join the conversation, to protect Tory. But then, as if the weight of the moment became too heavy to bear, Jieun turned on her heel and left without a word.

"I was there, trying to defuse the situation, but when you stepped in, nothing helped." Robby countered, his voice tinged with accusation.

Tory bristled at the hint, her guards rising. "I was handling it the best I could, Robby. I didn't see you doing much to help either."

Robby's gaze narrowed as he pressed on, his tone growing increasingly pointed. "And what about Jiji? Why wasn't she there to back you up?"

Tory's jaw tightened at the mention of Jieun, a flicker of unease crossing her features. "Might I remind you, she quit Cobra Kai and isn't involved."

Robby raised an eyebrow skeptically, his doubts lingering like a shadow between them. "Maybe. But it's awfully convenient that she wasn't around when things started to escalate."

Tory's frustration simmered beneath the surface as she shook her head in exasperation. "That's not fair, Robby. She doesn't need to be dragged into our mess." Tory noticed the creases of frustration etched onto his forehead. "Jesus, give me a break!" She began. "You were dumped, it sucks. That's your problem. Taking it out on me isn't helping you."

With a heavy sigh, they lapsed into an uneasy silence, the weight of their unresolved tensions hanging heavy in the air. And as they stood there, grappling with the fallout of their quarrel, they knew that rebuilding the trust would be no easy task.

"Robby, you have to understand something." Tory's gaze softened. "She is my best friend, yes, but she's also someone I care about deeply. And seeing her happy is all I've ever wanted, especially after everything she's been through. And, surprisingly, you made her happy. I saw it in the way her eyes lit up when she talked about you, how her laughter sounded lighter when you were around."

Robby's heart swelled with a mix of gratitude and relief at Tory's words.

"But this isn't about me still in Cobra Kai, is it?" Robby's eyes widened in surprise at Tory's bluntness but then softened as he realized she was right. "Grow up, Robby. Believe it or not, there's a reason behind everything, especially if you'd just hear her out."

Robby's brows furrowed, caught off guard by Tory's directness. "What do you mean?"

"I mean," Tory continued her tone firm yet compassionate, "Tweety's not some heartless villain in the story. She's a human being with her own struggles. Maybe if you took a step back from your own hurt and listened to her side of things, you'd understand why she made the choices she did."

Robby's defenses softened as he considered Tory's words. "But it's hard, Tory. I'm hurting."

"I know," Tory acknowledged, her voice softening with empathy. "But sometimes, the hardest thing to do is to set aside our own pain and try to understand someone else's. She deserves that much, doesn't she? Your relationship might be over, but that doesn't mean you can't show her some compassion."

Robby sighed, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders as he realized the truth in Tory's words.

Tory nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Who knows? Maybe you'll find some closure, or even a chance to mend things."

With a newfound sense of determination, Robby thanked Tory for her advice, knowing that taking that first step toward understanding might just lead him to the closure he desperately needed.

𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑'𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄

realizing when i tell yall im gonna update fast then i never do LOL !!

a bit of an angsty? ch. ?? idk im just excited to have robby and jiji make amends and then she joins miyagi do / eagle fang with yujin

which btw we luvvvv yujin !! <33

pls luv him too

also don't we just love tory and yujin being relationship counselors.