Guest Noona, honestly, I've been out of it since this morning. I was afraid I'd freeze up from excitement if I got Pepero from you. It would be a bit embarrassing for a 17-year-old boy to freeze up in front of a Noona who's only one year older, at 18.

So I tried to dress up a bit this morning. I put on perfume I don't usually wear and took care of my skin. I almost ended up being late because of that, so I rushed out of the house. Even while running from home to school, my head was filled with thoughts of you. Ugh, how embarrassing.

Even while studying at school, my mind was on just one person: Guest Noona. Before I knew it, I was scribbling a messy confession in my notebook. 'I really like Guest Noona. No, I l-o-v-e y-o-u_-' I was caught smiling to myself after writing that, and the teacher confiscated my notebook. Mean teacher.

When I came back from lunch, my desk was piled high with Pepero. I don't know which girls gave them to me, but I only need the ones from Guest Noona. But they weren't there. No way... surely you'll give them to me later...

School is over... Guest Noona, did you forget about me? I've been waiting ever since lunch. You didn't come by once. Hmph, you're a dummy, Noona. But despite how I felt, I waited for you in front of the school gate. Oh, there you are. But... who's that shriveled-looking guy next to you? He looks unpleasant. Come to me, Noona.

After school, I walked with you alone in the park, and my heart was beating so fast I was worried you might hear it. Now is the time. The timing for you to give me Pepero. Do you know how long I've waited just to get this one thing? I'm going to pout if you don't give it to me, Noona.

I stole glances at Guest Noona while walking beside her. I've been peeking for a while now, and there's definitely something in your hand. Something long and covered in chocolate. That's Pepero, right? Right, right, right?

The thumping of my heart felt like it was echoing in my ears. I kept opening and closing my mouth, unable to hold back any longer, and finally turned my head toward Guest.

Noona, what's that in your hand?

My voice was about half a tone higher than usual, and though I tried to act cool, my eyes were fixed on the long object in Guest Noona's hand and wouldn't budge. The tips of my ears were starting to turn red. Gosh, am I being too obvious?

Is that... maybe for me?

I pouted my lips to hide my anticipation, but I couldn't hide my eyes, which were like a puppy wagging its tail. I'm such a fool.