Chapter 75: Lies

Chapter 75: Lies

With the new term fast approaching, I wanted to spend more time with Eun-ha.

I had planned to study with Eun-ha today as well, but then a problem arose.

37.6 degrees?

I had woken up with a throbbing headache and a chilly sensation, so I checked my temperature, and it was 37.6 degrees.

To think Id catch a cold in this sweltering heat, melting away Its been quite an eventful time.

It seemed likely that sleeping with the air conditioner on recently was the cause.

My mother had gone to see my father in Busan and said she wouldnt be back until tomorrow evening.

Well, its not like I havent been sick on my own before, no need to worry unnecessarily.

I hurriedly changed my clothes and headed to the local ENT clinic.

I waited quietly in line with my mask on until a nurse called my name.

Lee Han-gyeol, please come into the consultation room.

Yes

Maybe it was because I moved around.

I felt heavier than when I had woken up from sleep.

But it was definitely not to the point of collapsing.

Yes, how can I assist you today?

Ah, I think Ive caught a cold. I seem to have a fever too. It was 37.6 degrees this morning.

Since when have you been feeling this way?

Since I woke up this morning.

Let me check your temperature again. Just a moment, please.

After measuring with the thermometer, the doctor said,

Its 37.8 degrees now. Do you have a cough or a runny nose?

I have a bit of a cough... and no runny nose, but could you prescribe something just in case?

Yes, of course. Ill prescribe medicine for three days. Its uncomfortable in the summer, but make sure to cover yourself with a blanket when you sleep.

Thank you.

Get plenty of rest. You know what to do, right?

Yes.

I settled the medical bill and picked up my medication.

I considered eating something but, feeling both lazy and exhausted, I ended up taking the medicine on an empty stomach.

Ah, I forgot to buy porridge on the way home. Ill just order delivery later. Im too tired right now.

After a quick wash in the bathroom, I went straight to bed.

Ah, I need to tell Eun-ha I cant make it today...

I searched for my phone beside the bed and turned on the screen.

Knowing Eun-ha, if I told her I was home alone, shed definitely come over to take care of me.

With the college entrance exams just about 100 days away, I didnt want to risk her catching a cold from me... So, I decided not to mention that Id be alone until tomorrow.

Ahem...! Hm...! Ah- Aaaaah-

Clearing my throat, I called Eun-ha. After a few rings, she picked up immediately, her voice filled with affection.

-Hello~ Han-gyeol, why~? Wanted to hear my voice first thing in the morning?

Were you studying?

-No, I was just thinking about Han-gyeol~

Ah, Eun-ha. I dont think I can come over this afternoon, so I wanted to call you.

Eun-has playful tone disappeared from her voice.

-Oh? Why? What happened?

I think Ive caught a cold. Its nothing serious, so dont worry too much.

-Really? Do you have a fever?

Just a slight one. But its nothing to be concerned about.

-Did you go to the hospital? Do you have medication? Is anyone home with you?

I went to the hospital this morning and got some medicine. At home... Moms here.

-Ah... Shes not going out, is she? Youre not alone, right?

Huh? But you said she was at home earlier.

Sorry. I didnt want to worry you unnecessarily. My mom went to see my dad in Busan and will be back tomorrow...

What-? So youve been to the hospital and stayed home alone all this time?

I should have kept quiet. But then again, since she said shed stay until my mom returned, this lie was bound to be uncovered eventually.

As I remained silent, Eun-ha looked at me with a slightly annoyed expression. I expected her to be angry, but at that moment, I was at a loss for words.

Sorry.

Hmm- Have you eaten anything?

Huh? Ah, no, not yet.

Then just lie down for now. Ill make some porridge.

No, its okay. We can just order something.

That wont do. Stay put, alright? I wont ask you twice, okay?

Okay.

Lie down then. Im going to use the kitchen. Can I open the fridge and take out what I need?

Yeah, thats fine.

Rest up.

Eun-ha gently pushed me down onto the bed, making sure I was lying down, and then headed to the kitchen.

Ill leave the door open, so if you need anything, just call me, okay?

Okay.

Eun-ha started making porridge in the kitchen.

The clattering of utensils and the chopping of ingredients reached my ears.

Soon, the delicious aroma began to waft into the room. Watching Eun-ha cook from behind, I felt a sense of appreciation for her beauty and kindness. Yet, I couldnt shake off the feeling that she was still slightly upset.

Here, say ah. I let it cool down a bit in the kitchen, so it should be okay to eat now.

Eun-ha had made egg porridge and was feeding it to me herself. It was a tad hot, but she continued to feed me little by little.

Is the seasoning okay?

Yeah. Its really good.

Is there anything else youd like to eat?

When I shook my head, Eun-ha brought another spoonful of porridge to my mouth.

Ill eat by myself from now on.

You sure? Here.

Eun-ha handed me the tray. I silently finished the porridge she had made.

Give me the tray. Ill take it to the sink.

No, Ill do it. Im not that sick.

I want to do it for you. Wheres the medicine?

I was fine, really... But Eun-has gaze was too determined.

Its on the dining table.

Ill go get it.

Since confessing that my mom wasnt home, Eun-ha hadnt smiled even once.

Although she was caring for me with such devotion, it was clear she was still a bit angry.

Heres your medicine and some water.

After bringing water and medicine from the kitchen, Eun-ha sat down beside the bed again.

Eun-ha...

Yeah, Han-gyeol?

Im sorry for lying earlier.

I apologized, but Eun-ha, still not smiling, responded.

Lets take the medicine first. We can talk about that later.

What to do... Shes kind of intimidating.

--- The End OF The Chapter ---

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