A girl named Zelphira was studying in high school. She was bright, energetic, and cheerful. But because of her name, everyone in her class would mock or embarrass her. She came from an orphanage and didn't know where her parents were, but her nanny and the elders raised her like she was their own daughter.
One day, when Zelphira was sitting in her seat studying, some girls and boys from her class were holding a bucket of water. They were giggling over her, and when they poured the water on her, it drenched her. She panicked. The students were shocked, their mouths wide open. They laughed at her and called, "Zelp... Zelp..."
She got angry, folded her wrists, and closed her eyes to control her anger. But when a girl laughed and said, "Zelphira is an orphan, you know~ I think her parents must have left her when they saw her," they all started mocking her.
Hearing this, Zelphira slammed her hands on the table, sighed, took her water bottle, opened it slowly, stood up, and splashed water on them. They got wet. A boy said, "You're crazy! What are you doing?"
She said, "Hey, did you guys see my parents abandon me in the orphanage? Or name me Zelphira? You didn't give yourselves the right to mock me! Are you guys that high, huh?" She pointed at the boys who called her crazy and said, "And you... you must be crazy to call me that. Did I owe you money? Did I break your leg?" Then she smacked one boy's head with her water bottle and continued, "I was holding it while you guys mocked me all these years, but now I won't sit idle and be silent."
They were shocked and silent. The leader of that group said in a trembling voice, "You... you... I will handle you next time," and he ran away.
Zelphira stuck out her tongue playfully and said in a loud voice, "If you try to mock me again, I won't be silent. I will make you regret twice as much for what you did to me~" She looked around and saw the other students were impressed and clapped as if they had just watched a movie.
Zelphira smirked, shook her head in disbelief, noticed her dress was wet, took her coat, and went to change.
As class ended, Zelphira was walking down the road. A breeze passed through her, comforting her, and sun rays fell through the little gaps in the leaves. As Zelphira inhaled the fresh air, she smiled warmly and whispered, "Huh~ today I feel contented. I should have given them a lesson earlier, or else I wouldn't have gotten drenched like this." She kicked her hands in the air in frustration.
People looked at her awkwardly. Noticing this, Zelphira smiled awkwardly and ran.
She noticed a convenience store and her stomach started to make noises. She tapped her stomach and said, "Guys, I think you're hungry now~ Let's go!" and happily walked inside.
Zelphira picked some food, paid for it, and sat down to eat. As she opened the cover of the ramen, the aroma of the noodles touched her face. She inhaled deeply, and her stomach growled louder. Taking a bite, she enjoyed each mouthful as if tasting a rare treasure.
While she was eating, a tall man walked into the store. He picked his food and strolled around to find other items. As he looked at the food, he noticed Zelphira enjoying her noodles, dancing slightly. He let out a soft chuckle, saw her wet hair, raised his eyebrows in surprise, and went to get a towel.
After paying, he walked slowly toward her. His footsteps echoed in the air-conditioned store. Placing his food on the table, he sat down and opened it. He looked at her awkwardly, started to eat, but kept glancing her way, turning away each time. He repeated this three times.
Zelphira noticed him and looked up suddenly. He got caught making eye contact and quickly turned away, focusing on his food again. Zelphira narrowed her eyes, thinking, "What's with him? Why is he acting weird?" and resumed eating.
Aijun grinned and slowly reached out his left hand, pushing the towel toward her. Zelphira felt something tickle her hand and noticed a towel beside it. She scanned the towel and looked at Aijun. She smirked and tapped his arm.
Aijun's heart skipped, his breathing grew faster. As he turned, she asked, "Sir, this towel...?"
He said, "Huh~ I bought it for you." Zelphira's eyes widened, looking at the towel in confusion.
He continued, "Little girl... don't take it the wrong way. I saw your hair was wet," pointing at her hair. Zelphira nodded.
"So, I bought it for you to dry your hair."
Zelphira smiled softly and said, "Sir... thanks for this. Tell me how much it cost, I'll return the money," taking out her purse.
Aijun stopped her by grabbing her wrist. Both looked at her hand. She raised an eyebrow; he quickly pulled back his hand, as if touching a hot pan.
Aijun trembled and said, "So... sorry... you don't have to give me money."
Zelphira was still in shock but just shook her head and slowly turned back to eat.
Aijun closed his eyes like he had just achieved something and smiled.
After Zelphira finished eating, she stood up, dropped the waste in the trash, and left. Seeing her leave, Aijun stuffed food into his mouth like a squirrel, dropped his waste in the trash, grabbed his bag, and followed her.
As Zelphira walked down the road, drying her hair with the towel Aijun gave her, Aijun smiled foolishly and jumped while walking, watching her.
Leaves fell over her as they walked. She stopped, looked at the beauty of the trees, felt happy, and began to dance ballet. Raising her hands, she placed her left leg over her right and swirled like a swan.
Seeing her smile happily under the streetlight and the falling leaves, Aijun fell for her at that moment, forgetting everything and losing himself in her dance. He began to dance like her.
As Zelphira turned while swirling, she noticed the man dancing with her. She stopped, walked silently, as if he might kidnap her.
When Aijun noticed she disappeared, he ran toward the path she took.
Stopping near a medical shop, he caught his breath and looked around. To his surprise, Zelphira was hiding behind a tree. She slowly stepped toward him and raised her bag, knocking on his head.
Aijun groaned in pain, rubbed his head, and turned around. He saw she was standing behind him.
Zelphira blinked while holding her hands high. Aijun let out a soft laugh and said, "Little girl... why did you beat me? I didn't do anything~"
Zelphira smirked and said, "You... you were following me from the convenience store. How can I take it? Like you're a spy or a kidnapper, huh~"
Aijun was shocked by her reply and said, "Little girl, I'm not that kind of man. My way home is through this road, so I have to take this street."
She lowered her hands, put on her bag, and asked with narrowed eyes, "Then why did you dance like me?"
Aijun was shocked and replied with a trembling voice, "That... that... I just saw you dancing beautifully, so I tried to dance like you."
Zelphira took a step back, shocked, her heart racing. In a trembling voice she said, "You... don't call me little girl," pointing at her school logo.
Aijun looked at the logo and said, "Ohh, you're a high school girl."
She replied, "Yeah~ I'm going to enter college, so I'm a mature girl," placing her hands on her waist proudly.
Aijun laughed. She looked at him and asked, "Wait... why are you laughing like we know each other, huh~?"
Aijun stopped laughing, closed his mouth, leaned forward, and replied, "If we don't know each other, we can try to get along."
Zelphira took a step back again, raised her bag ready to throw at him, and said, "Are you a scammer trying to scam me?"
Aijun leaned back laughing, shook his head in disbelief, and said, "Little girl..." She narrowed her eyes.
Aijun sighed and said, "Then little girl, how can I call you if I don't know your name?"
On a whim, she said, "I'm Zelphira."
Aijun was surprised hearing the name. She came to her senses and covered her face with her bag.
Aijun saw her covering her face and asked, "Why are you covering your face? Are you blushing?"
Tired of his flirting, Zelphira lifted her head clearly annoyed and said, "Do you want me to complain to the police?"
Aijun was shocked by her boldness. He replied, "Zephira... don't, I'm a good man~"
She sighed and said, "It's not Zephira, it's Zelphira..." Aijun nodded and called her name softly, "Zelphira..." as if tasting candy.
She smirked with a smile.
As Aijun happily looked at her smile, he unknowingly patted her head. When he touched her hair, Zelphira's eyes widened, her heart raced faster, and she started to sweat. She looked like a golden retriever.
Aijun came to his senses, noticed his hand in her hair, was stunned, slowly took his hand away, and smiled awkwardly.
Zelphira coughed awkwardly and said, "Hmm... mm, I will leave now," took her bag, and ran.
Aijun stood there stunned, his hand floating in midair. He turned and watched her running, smiled warmly, and folded his palms softly.
As Zelphira reached her home (a single-bedroom house — she wasn't staying in the orphanage but would visit the elders whenever she was free), she opened the door quickly and closed it behind her.
Leaning against the door, she blinked at the wall. The next second, she screamed, "Woah... woah... what the hell!!~~" She threw her bag on the bed and sat down on it.
Zelphira was processing everything that had happened earlier. She closed her eyes, ruffled her hair in frustration, and thought, Who is he? Why does he have to talk to me like that? What does he think, that he can just pamper my hair? She let out a sigh, leaned back, and fell onto the bed.
Unable to digest the incidents, she kicked her legs in the air and covered her face with the blanket.
Meanwhile, Aijun returned home. His roommates were watching TV and laughing. Aijun placed his bag on the table and sat on the sofa. One of his friends turned to him laughing, but Aijun became silent and elbowed his other friends.
They turned to him, shocked, because Aijun was giggling and laughing like a madman.
His friend tapped his leg and called his name, "Aijun..."
He came to his senses and smiled. "What happened?"
His friends were surprised. One of them asked, "Aijun, did you get a raise in your salary or did your head praise you?"
Aijun chuckled, took the pillow beside him, hugged it, and said, "No, no..."
His friends panicked, stood up, and sat beside him. One asked, placing a hand on his forehead, "Aijun, do you have a fever? Or did you go mad because of overtime?"
Aijun shot a bombastic side-eye, brushing off the hand. He leaned forward and said, "Guys, I saw a girl when I went to eat at the convenience store, and guess what... I have a crush on her~"
His friends leaned back in surprise. One said, "Are you telling the truth? You fell for a girl?"
Aijun hugged his pillow and rocked back and forth with a bright smile. His friends burst into laughter, clutching their stomachs.
Aijun was shocked and gave them a smack with the pillow. "Yay~ I'm telling the truth."
His friends nodded as if they trusted him.
Aijun pouted. One friend asked, "Then sir... who is that girl? She must be really beautiful, because a heartbreaker like you has fallen in love~" Again, they burst into laughter.
Aijun sulked and said, "I am not a heartbreaker. In school days, I wasn't interested in love."
As he finished, one friend replied, "We're not asking about your popularity in school, Aijun. Even at work, many girls asked for your number, but you denied them." They looked at him eagerly.
Aijun coughed and said, "That... that's different, but she is different. She's really bold, quick-witted, and a good dancer." He grinned.
His friends chuckled. One asked, "So where is she working?"
Aijun looked at him with puppy eyes and said, "She's studying in high school, and she said she's going to enter college."
His friends were shocked and ready to throw their hands up in disbelief, shaking their heads and stood up.
Aijun asked, "Hey guys, where are you going?"
They replied, "Aijun, you should visit a doctor."
He looked confused, tilting his head as if he didn't know what he had done.
---
The next day, Zelphira woke up. She moved the blanket from her face, clearly not well-rested. She looked pale.
Zelphira woke, saw it was 6 a.m., sighed in disbelief, freshened up, made breakfast, and sat down to eat.
While eating, her mind was full of memories of him. His face kept passing before her eyes, making her heart remember it like a spell.
She dropped her bread on the plate, leaned back in surprise, and said, "Why is he appearing in my mind? Why can't I forget him?"
Zelphira bit into the bread in anguish.
After finishing breakfast, she took her bag and slowly walked to school.
As she walked, her eyes unknowingly searched for him. She slapped her cheeks and shook her head as if she saw a disgusting thing.
Zelphira reached her class, placed her bag on the table, and sat down, resting her chin on the table.
At 8 a.m., the bell rang, and classes started. The homeroom teacher entered, and the students stood up and greeted her.
The teacher told them to sit and said, "Students, I think you know the college entrance exam is around the corner. Some students have been careless and are not taking it seriously, so start preparing now to catch up with others."
The students nodded.
The teacher continued, "Once the exams are over, you will be relaxed. When you get the results, you will step into a new world."
The students grinned. It was like a slogan teachers always used whenever exams came.
The students murmured and started to study. Zelphira opened her book and shook her head, trying to concentrate.
---
Back at the office, at 9 a.m., Aijun was walking down the same road, searching for her.
He went to the convenience store, peeked through the window, but she wasn't there.
Aijun sighed and walked to his office.
Sitting at his desk, he opened his computer and was busy, but his eyes weren't on the screen. His mind was thinking about her.
At lunchtime, Aijun closed his computer, grabbed some coffee, and sat in the cafeteria, sipping while lost in thought.
His friends saw him looking soulless. They exchanged looks and walked toward him with smirks.
One friend tapped him on the shoulder. Aijun jumped and the friends laughed.
One asked, "What are you thinking about?"
Aijun clutched his heart and yelled, "Hey~~ you scared me!"
His friends laughed and asked him to answer.
Aijun sighed and said, "It's nothing, just thinking about work."
They said in unison, "Ohh~~"
He waited, clearly ready to spill the tea.
He got alerted and said again, "Really, there's nothing. I'm just thinking about work."
He pressed the coffee cup down.
His friends smirked, tapped his shoulder, and left laughing.
Aijun took a deep breath and thought, If I told them, they would announce it on the mic.
He slipped his coffee.
---
Back at school, the time passed. Students packed their bags and left the classroom one by one.
Zelphira packed her things, stood, and walked toward the door.
She sensed something was wrong, peeked outside, and saw the group waiting for her.
Zelphira sighed, stepped back, and stood like she was in a race.
Counting to three, she ran like the wind.
The bullies saw her running, widened their eyes, and ran after her.
Zelphira murmured, I think I shouldn't have messed with them.
She ran toward the exit gate.
---
On the other hand, Aijun left work and walked past her school.
He stopped and saw her school.
Aijun waited eagerly.
As Zelphira came out, he saw her and called loudly, "Zelphira~~"
She didn't hear and kept running.
Aijun narrowed his eyes and whispered, "Why is she running?" Then saw the group chasing her.
He became furious, held his bag tightly, and ran toward them.
---
Zelphira hid behind a tree catching her breath, peeking at them.
The group searched for her.
Aijun noticed her hiding and slowly walked toward her.
As Zelphira watched the group, Aijun tapped her.
She widened her eyes and gave an elbow punch to his stomach, thinking it was the group.
She turned immediately and saw it was him.
Zelphira closed her mouth in shock but started laughing.
Aijun groaned in pain quietly, rubbing his stomach.
Zelphira squatted down, controlling her laugh, and asked, "Hey~ what are you doing here? Does it hurt so much?"
Aijun turned his head dramatically like he had been shot.
Zelphira burst into laughter and slapped his stomach again.
He grinned in pain.
---
Hearing the noise, the group walked on the leaves.
Aijun heard them coming.
He pulled her into his chest and covered her with his long arms.
Zelphira fell against him, her sweaty hair falling on his face.
Her heart raced fast.
She held his shirt tightly.
She slowly looked into his eyes.
He was peeking out to see if the group was still coming.
His eyes were full of protection and love.
At that moment, she felt comfort and love from him.
Aijun looked at her and widened his eyes, stopping to breathe.
His heart raced while Zelphira felt it beating.
She chuckled.
Aijun asked in a trembling voice, "Why are you laughing?"
She shook her head and said, "Are you that nervous, sir?"
He chuckled to hide his embarrassment and said, "Huh... I was catching my breath."
She nodded, tapped his head, and he raised his brow, asking, "What?"
She said, "They've left. Can you take your hands off me?"
Aijun looked at his hands on her shoulders, smirked, and removed them.
Zelphira fixed her dress, ruffled her hair, and stood up.
Aijun fixed his clothes.
When he turned to her, his heart raced again, and he fixed his gaze on her.
Zelphira tied her hair, slowly turned to him, and asked, "Hey~ what are you doing here?"
He coughed and said, "I saw you running. Who are they? Why were they following you?"
Zelphira looked at the road and said quietly, "Oh... they are my classmates," and walked on.
Aijun followed her and asked, "If they're your classmates, why were they following you?"
Zelphira looked annoyed and didn't reply.
Aijun stood there, grabbed her wrist, pulling her.
She turned and said, "Hey~"
He said, "Call me Aijun," trembling, "What happened? Tell me."
Zelphira's heart skipped.
He looked like someone she longed for—someone who cared for her like others cared for their own.
Frozen, tears fell from her eyes.
Seeing her cry, Aijun's eyes softened.
He slowly moved his hand from her.
Zelphira couldn't control her tears and cried loudly.
Aijun quickly covered her with his arms, comforting her.
She rested her chin on his shoulder, her tears falling on him.
Aijun felt the tears, and his heart broke into pieces.
He whispered into her ear, "Zelphira, I don't know what problems you have, but it's not your fault. You are a good girl and will be loved by everyone. Don't cry."
He patted her back.
Zelphira nodded, tears still falling, and grabbed his shirt tightly as she cried.
Aijun patted her back, and she leaned back, her eyes swollen. Aijun smiled and told Zelphira, "You look like a child now," as he wiped her tears with his hands. She pouted with a chuckle. He pampered her head with a smile, then grabbed her hands, and they ran together. Aijun ran happily, turning behind to see her bright smile. Zelphira ran alongside him, her hair flying in the breeze, warm sun rays falling on them. In that moment, she forgot her problems and ran beside him with a heart full of smiles.
By 6 pm, Aijun and Zelphira went to eat at a roadside shop. Aijun was ordering the food while Zelphira sat, looking at him with soft eyes. When Aijun brought the food, he placed it on the table and sat down. Zelphira was still looking at him, her hands resting under her chin. Seeing her frozen gaze, Aijun smiled and waved. She nodded, and they began to eat.
Aijun rolled up his shirt sleeves and started eating, while Zelphira giggled, watching the veins on his hands. Aijun noticed and asked, "Zelphira, why are you giggling? Do I look that handsome?" He took a bite with a smirk. Zelphira clearly liked the attention but was also tired of his flirting. She replied, "Aijun, can I ask you something?" He nodded while chewing. She asked, "Don't you have any shame? You're openly flirting with me and acting like nothing happened." She raised a brow, looking at him.
Aijun choked and coughed. Zelphira laughed, poured a glass of water, and handed it to him. He drank and said, "Zelphira... you... I like talking to you like that," taking another bite as he smiled, "because it makes me happy." Now it was her turn to choke, and she slapped his hand. They both laughed and continued eating.
After a few seconds, Zelphira took a deep breath and said, "They've been my classmates since high school. They bullied me because of my name, and I don't have parents like others." While Aijun was eating, he froze at her words, slowly lifting his head. His eyes softened as he listened intently. She continued, "I don't know who my parents are or where they are, but for me, my parents are those who took care of me in the orphanage. They were also abandoned by their children."
She smiled softly and went on, "When I started school, I was happy thinking I'd make friends, but it was the opposite. When they heard my name, they laughed as if I was a joke. Since then, no one talked to me, and they bullied me for no reason. I held on to it until now. But when I matured, I thought—what's wrong with my name? What right do they have to mock me? Why should I obey them when they bully me? So, I took my revenge and splashed water on them, but they called me crazy." She shook her head with a laugh. "That's why they followed me, but I don't regret it, because now I'm happy I stood up for myself." She looked at him.
Aijun was emotional, tears welling in his eyes. Seeing this, Zelphira said, "Aijun, even I don't cry, why are you in tears?" He replied, "Zelphira, they're crazy to call you that. There's nothing wrong with your name. I think they don't have the brains to understand its meaning. And as I said, it's not your fault your parents left you there. It's their fault for bullying you, not yours. If they try to bully you again, tell me—I will take care of them."
Zelphira was touched, her heart racing again. With a trembling voice, she asked, "Huh... then do you know the meaning of my name?" Curiously, he leaned forward and said, "Zelphira means gentle and caring. They named you perfectly. People shouldn't judge someone by their name or appearance but by their character. By birth, I think you truly are like your name."
Zelphira blinked in surprise and breathed quickly. Aijun gave her an assuring look, promising to take care of her like family. She nodded, tears shining through her smile. They continued eating, and she asked, "Aijun, what do you do?"
He replied, "I work in a company." She looked surprised and said, "But Aijun, you look about my age—how are you working already?"
He chuckled proudly and said, "I entered college at 15. Now I'm 20." He rubbed his hair with a smirk and continued, "I work at a big company." She laughed as she ate. Aijun watched her laugh, leaned back with relief, and joined in the laughter.
The next day, Aijun woke up early. After freshening up, he stood in front of the mirror, combed his hair with his hands, and smirked. His friend woke up, saw him smiling at the mirror, gave an annoyed look, and whispered, "Why is he acting like he's dating her? He really lost his mind." Then, jealous, he covered his face with the blanket.
Aijun giggled, grabbed his bag, and left the house.
On the other hand, Zelphira woke up as the sun's rays entered her room. The birds chirping made her happy; she smiled through the sunlight, folded her blanket, and freshened up. She prepared her breakfast, packed it for lunch, and took a bun in a cover. On her way to school, she was eating the bun, enjoying the breeze.
Meanwhile, Aijun was walking past the medical shop when he noticed Zelphira. He smiled widely, ran toward her, and began following her like a shadow.
Zelphira felt someone behind her. She turned around, saw no one, and narrowed her eyes. Then, suddenly, Aijun was standing beside her. He tapped her shoulder.
Startled, Zelphira turned to see it was Aijun. He smiled and waved at her. She rolled her eyes and said, "It's you~ Why are you scaring me?" Then she walked on.
Aijun walked beside her and said, "Yeah, it's me. Who did you think it was?" He looked at her.
Zelphira sulked, bit the bun, and chewed while looking at it. Aijun suddenly grabbed it from her hands and started eating.
Frozen in place, Zelphira slapped his arm and said, "Shameless~" before hurrying away.
Aijun stood there frozen, bun in mouth. He let out a soft chuckle and called out while running, "Hey Zelphira, wait for me~~"
As they walked, they reached her school. Zelphira turned to him, waved, and said, "Then bye~" She handed him the extra buns and left.
Holding the buns, Aijun called out loudly, "Zelphiraaa~~ Let's meet at the same spot!"
The students nearby saw him and started crushing on him, while some looked at Zelphira in shock. She turned to Aijun with an annoyed look and gestured at him to leave like an annoyed mom. Aijun nodded and left.
When Aijun reached his office, he placed his bag on his desk, sat down, opened the bun's cover, took a bite, and enjoyed every chew. He blinked in surprise and whispered, "Huh~ She is cooking well."
His friend sat beside him, drawn by the aroma of the bun. He looked at it, and Aijun noticed. Hugging the bun, Aijun said, "I won't give you," and took another bite.
His friend shot a playful side eye and said, "Aijun, I didn't even ask you to give it. Why do you have to make it so obvious~?" He grinned.
Back at school, Zelphira placed her bag on the table and took out her books, arranging them neatly. As she watched leaves fall outside, she smiled softly. Suddenly, someone tapped her shoulder. She turned and saw it was them. Zelphira rolled her eyes, turned back, and opened her books. They exchanged looks of disbelief before chuckling.
A girl sneered, "Hey Zelphira, did you get bold just because you splashed water on me, huh?" Zelphira didn't respond. The other students in the classroom looked at her helplessly.
That group surrounded her, and a boy grabbed her book, throwing it to the floor. Zelphira's eyes flashed with anger as she spoke loudly, "Pick my book up from the floor!" She lifted her head defiantly.
The boy shook his head with a chuckle. Zelphira slammed the table; the sound echoed through the classroom. The students flinched, and one quickly went to call their homeroom teacher.
The girl grabbed her hair, shaking her head in pain as the boys laughed. Zelphira was on the verge of losing her temper. She stood up, brushed off her hands, and tightly held her hair as she had just been grabbed.
The girl groaned in pain. Zelphira asked sharply, "What hurts now? Why do you always mess with me, huh?"
She then turned to the boys with raised brows and said, "Pick up that book." The boy froze for a moment, but Zelphira tightened her grip on her hair again. The girl shouted, ordering him to pick it up. Reluctantly, the boy picked up the book and placed it back on the table.
Zelphira released her hair, wiped her hands on her dress with a disgusted look, and said, "If you guys want to mess with me again, I don't know how it'll end." She gave them a death glare.
Zelphira sat down with her legs crossed. Meanwhile, the girl was in tears, raising her hand to strike Zelphira. At that moment, their homeroom teacher arrived and saw the girl's raised hand.
The teacher's voice rang out sharply, "Ziya, stop! What are you doing?"
The entire class turned to their teacher. Zelphira sighed in disbelief and stood up.
The teacher approached them, grabbed Ziya's ears, and said, "Ziya, you've been bullying her, haven't you? I've seen you many times, and I've even warned you."
She shouted, "Warned you or not?"
The students nodded nervously. Ziya protested, "Ma'am, she was the one who grabbed my hair first!"
Zelphira looked at her in disbelief, about to speak, but the teacher cut her off, "You don't have to explain. I know everything you've done."
The teacher then looked at the boys and said firmly, "You all will be suspended for a week. Write an apology letter and read it aloud in front of the class."
With that, the teacher left. Zelphira smiled while the group sulked, acting as if they hadn't done anything wrong.
That group turned to her with anger on their faces while Zelphira smirked and sat down.
Back at the office, it was 4 PM and everyone was leaving work. Aijun packed his things and left as well. As he passed by Zelphira's school, he noticed students were leaving early. He looked at his watch, shocked, and whispered, "What a surprise~ They're leaving so early! When I was studying, they wouldn't let us leave until 6 PM. They must be lucky to go home early now." He sighed.
Zelphira was walking toward the exit gate when she saw Aijun standing there. She narrowed her eyes and walked away. Aijun noticed her and ran after her, tapping her on the head.
Zelphira looked at him and asked, "Aijun, are you really that free? You're coming on time?" She raised an eyebrow.
He smiled proudly and said, "Little girl... it's not school, I'm working. I can get off before 4 PM." He grinned.
Zelphira shook her head in disbelief and walked on.
Aijun walked beside her and asked, "How was your day? Did you study well? Did that group annoy you again?"
Zelphira stopped with her arms crossed. "Why are you nagging like a granny?"
He laughed. She said, "I did study, and class went well."
Aijun nodded. "Then what will you do tomorrow? It's a holiday for you, right?"
She stopped walking again, stunned. "Aijun, how do you know everything? Did you spy on me?"
He chuckled, crossing his arms. "Little girl... don't forget I'm older than you." He smirked.
Zelphira got annoyed, kicked his leg, and left. Aijun groaned in pain but followed her with a smile.
When they reached the convenience store, Zelphira picked out her food and placed it on the counter. Aijun stood beside her, placed his food there too, and told the shopkeeper to bill it. She took out her money and stretched out her hand, but Aijun scanned the QR code and paid for both.
Zelphira blinked in surprise and smiled, giving him a thumbs up. He nodded playfully. They took their food and sat at a table.
She placed her food down, took a hairband from her pocket, and began tying her hair.
Aijun turned to her and said, "Little girl~ what will you do tomorrow?"
Then he froze. White lights fell on her, and hot steam from the food brushed her face. His breathing quickened, and his eyes froze.
Zelphira turned to him, asking, "What? What did you say, Aijun?"
He coughed and replied, "I asked what you'll do tomorrow." He started opening his food with trembling hands.
She looked at his hands and giggled, "Aijun, did you forget to take your medicine?"
Aijun froze and gave her an annoyed look.
As Zelphira began eating, she said, "I'll be visiting the orphanage tomorrow."
Aijun replied while chewing, "I'll accompany you, little girl."
She dropped her chopsticks on the bowl and stared at him eating peacefully. "If I hear you call me 'little girl' again, I'll finish you," she said dramatically, making a threatening gesture.
Aijun laughed and looked at her, calling her "little girl" again.
She got annoyed and noticed the hot sauce beside her. Smirking, she casually said, "Aijun, can you get me some tissues?"
He nodded and stood up to ask for some. Meanwhile, she added the hot sauce to his ramen, stirred it, and giggled as she returned to her seat.
When Aijun brought the tissues, he handed them to her and sat down to eat. She held the tissue near her mouth, waiting for him to take a bite.
Aijun looked at her, raising an eyebrow. She shook her head with a smile.
He took a bite and didn't react immediately. After a few seconds, his lips started burning from the spice. His eyes widened in shock as he stared at her, unable to yell. He grabbed a glass of water and drank it, but it didn't help cool the burn.
Zelphira clutched her stomach, laughing.
Aijun went to get some ice to soothe his mouth. Then he sighed, looking at her laughing.
After finishing their food, Zelphira and Aijun walked home. Seeing him holding ice near his lips, she burst into laughter that echoed down the empty road.
Aijun looked at her with an annoyed expression and said, "Little girl, don't laugh like that or the neighbors will think there's a ghost here." He giggled.
She elbowed him as they walked.
She asked, "Where's your house?"
He said, "I walk straight, then turn left. You?"
She looked at him and said, "You turn left, and I turn right. But how come I never saw you before?"
Aijun was surprised. "Little girl, I think it must be fate. Do you regret not seeing me before?" He smirked.
Zelphira, clearly tired of his antics, shook her head in disbelief.
When they reached the turning point, Zelphira turned right and walked away. Aijun stood there watching her leave, then shouted, "Zelphira~~"
She turned to him.
He continued, "I'll be waiting for you here tomorrow."
She nodded.
He said, "Don't worry about anything. I'll be with you." He made a heart with his hands.
Zelphira smiled brightly, returned the heart gesture, waved at him, and left.
Aijun waved back with a bright smile until she entered her house.
The next day, Aijun woke up early and freshened up in a hurry. He wore an oversized shirt and jeans. Looking at himself in the mirror, a proud smile spread across his face. He grabbed his wallet and left.
Meanwhile, Zelphira had already freshened up and even cooked food for the elders—and for Aijun too. She took her bag and walked along the road, surprised to see Aijun waiting at the turn.
She whispered to herself, "He really did come~"
Walking toward him, she stood quietly.
Aijun smiled and patted her head. "Little girl, you look beautiful~"
Instantly, she became like a golden retriever, a smile escaping her lips. He removed his hand and looked at the food in her hand.
"Did you prepare this for me, little girl?" he asked, reaching to take it.
She hid it quickly. "It's not for you, it's for the elders. I didn't make food for you," she said with a chuckle and started walking.
Aijun followed, pouting. She laughed and stretched out her hand, handing the breakfast to him.
Aijun's eyes widened as he took it. He elbowed her playfully. "Little girl~ You didn't betray me!" He jumped like a happy puppy.
Zelphira shook her head, laughing.
When they reached the orphanage, they went inside. The place was clean, with a beautiful atmosphere filled with flowers and big trees.
As Zelphira walked, all the elders looked at her as if they hadn't seen her in years. They stood up and hugged her. Zelphira smiled through tears and patted their backs.
Aijun stood nearby, confused.
The elders stepped back, and one old man narrowed his eyes at Aijun.
"Who are you?" he asked. "I haven't seen you with her all these years."
Aijun was stunned by hearing him and then leaned back, wearing a proud smile. "I am..."
Before he could finish, Zelphira called him.
Aijun looked at her with an annoyed expression, then turned back to the old man, patted his back, and walked away.
As Aijun stepped inside, he saw the elders laughing and eating. He smiled and joined them.
Zelphira noticed him, turned with a laugh, and motioned for him to sit beside her.
He melted faster than ice at her laugh, giggled inwardly, walked over, and sat down next to her.
Sitting quietly, a granny asked Zelphira, "Who is this man?"
She smirked and replied, "He's my friend," and laughed.
Aijun elbowed her and said, "What's so funny, Zelphira?"
The granny laughed and turned to him. "Young man, this is the first time she's brought a friend here. You must be special to her, or else..."
She looked at Zelphira, placing her hands on hers, and continued, "...or else this girl wouldn't let anyone near her so easily."
A smile escaped Zelphira's lips. Aijun looked at her happily and said to the granny, "I will take care of her. I won't leave her alone."
Zelphira's heart skipped a beat. She glanced at him, her breathing quickened, and she turned away quickly.
Aijun chuckled.
The granny said, "Mm… so from now on, our Zelphira has a boyfriend! I'm happy."
The elders smiled warmly.
Hearing that, Zelphira coughed while Aijun looked at her proudly with a bright smile. She gave a slap on his lap and hushed him.
Aijun giggled.
Another old lady asked, "Zelphira..."
She nodded, and the lady continued, "Will you dance for us?"
The elders cheered excitedly.
Zelphira smiled and nodded happily.
As she stood up, Aijun walked alongside her. She turned to him playfully.
"Sir... are you going to dance with me, huh?"
Aijun's voice trembled. "Huh~ I just stood up. My legs are numb." He rubbed them awkwardly.
She pointed to a chair and said, "Aijun, sit."
He shook his head quickly, then ran to his chair and sat down.
Zelphira looked at him, stunned.
As a ballad played, Zelphira balanced on one leg, raised her hands, and twirled gracefully.
Sun rays streamed through the window, casting rainbow colors on her as she jumped and spun again.
The elders cheered, while Aijun was mesmerized by her dance. He leaned forward, eyes wide.
He took out his phone and started recording her.
Noticing him, Zelphira raised a brow. He panicked, hid his phone, and shook his head.
When she finished, the elders clapped enthusiastically.
Aijun was still mesmerized, staring at her.
Zelphira walked over, smiling. The elders hugged her, and she laughed warmly.
"I'll come visit again this weekend, granny," she said.
They all nodded in approval.
She called out to Aijun, but he didn't respond.
An old man tapped his shoulder, bringing Aijun back to reality.
Suddenly, Aijun stood and clapped his hands—alone.
The elders laughed heartily.
Zelphira approached him, teasing, "Aijun, did you forget to charge yourself? You're so slow to react."
He glanced at the laughing elders, lowered his hands, and smiled awkwardly.
Zelphira laughed, and together they paid their respects to the elders before leaving.
Zelphira and Aijun walked along the road. Zelphira was smiling happily, and when he saw her, he asked, "Zelphira, why are you smiling so happily?"
She kept her eyes on the path and replied, "Aijun, I'm happy because I visited them, and it's like…" She hesitated, then continued with a soft giggle, "It's like I was meeting my parents after a long time."
Aijun slowly turned to her, his eyes softening. When Zelphira looked back at him with a smile, she asked, "What? Are you emotional, huh?"
He shook his head with a smile. "Little girl, I'm surprised that you're happy and moving forward. It's not easy to be like this at your age." He reached out and ruffled her hair.
Zelphira was stunned by his words. As his hand touched her hair, she blushed and smiled widely.
As they continued walking, Zelphira noticed an ice cream shop and glanced at it. He caught her look and said, "Hey~ I'm hungry. Let's go eat ice cream."
Zelphira's face lit up, and she nodded happily. He laughed in disbelief, and they went into the shop.
Zelphira ordered a large ice cream while Aijun was still deciding what to get. The shopkeeper asked him, "What would you like to order, sir?" She looked at him eagerly. Aijun thought for a few seconds, then said with a bright smile, "Sir, I would like to order a strawberry ice cream."
The shopkeeper nodded, while Zelphira gave him a side-eye and whispered, "I thought you were going to order something big, but huh~" She smirked.
He turned to her with the same smile, but she just sighed and walked toward a table. Aijun tilted his head and followed her.
When he placed the ice cream on the table, both of them took their spoons and dug in. Zelphira enjoyed every bite, biting the spoon slightly before opening her eyes and saying, "Aijun, it's really…" She stopped mid-sentence, stunned—because Aijun wasn't eating his ice cream. He was just rubbing it with his spoon, putting a little in his mouth, and slowly licking it.
She laughed. "Aijun, did you plan to sit here for the whole day, huh?"
Aijun took the spoon from his mouth. "Why? What happened?"
Leaning forward, she teased, "You're eating it as if it's hurting you. It's already afternoon, and the shopkeeper might throw you out if you eat this slow~"
He smirked, leaned forward, and said, "But little girl… I paid for it." Then he took a bit of cream with his hand and rubbed it on her nose before leaning back, giggling.
Zelphira rolled her eyes, grabbed a tissue, and wiped her nose. As Aijun opened his mouth to eat, she shoved the tissue into it.
Aijun's eyes widened, looking at her with the tissue still in his mouth. Zelphira laughed, tilting her head playfully like a child.
Aijun spat the tissue out, moved his jaw, and called out, "Zelphiraaa~~~"
She giggled, and he chuckled in surprise.
As they finished eating, they stepped out of the shop and strolled down the road. When they reached the turn, Zelphira said, "Then I'll leave now," and waved at him.
Aijun looked at her with a soft smile and nodded. She tilted her head playfully and walked away, while he watched her go with a quiet chuckle.
The next morning, Aijun slowly opened his eyes, still half-asleep. He rubbed his cheeks with both hands and reached for his phone.
When he saw the time — 8:00 a.m. — his eyes widened as if he'd missed an important meeting. He scrambled out of bed, rushing to the restroom to freshen up.
Meanwhile, Zelphira was already awake, finishing her breakfast. Leaning back in her chair, she tapped her leg and wondered, Should I pack breakfast for him? Will he wait? Or should I just not bother?
After a moment, she tilted her head and said aloud, "Let's pack it. If he comes, I'll give it to him; if not, I can eat it for lunch." Smiling, she skipped toward the kitchen.
Back to Aijun — he threw on his shirt and pants, tucked them in neatly, ruffled his damp hair, grabbed his bag, and left the house.
He jogged toward the alley, while Zelphira opened her door to check for him. Not seeing him, she closed it… then opened it again. And again. And again. By the fourth time, she still didn't see him. Narrowing her eyes, she stepped outside, peeked down the road, sighed, and closed the door before heading out.
As she walked, Aijun stopped at the corner, catching his breath. When he lifted his head, he spotted her — and a smile escaped his lips. He broke into a run.
Zelphira, still looking a little pale, bumped into someone and groaned. When she looked up, she froze — it was him.
Unknowingly, her lips curved into a smile.
Aijun was still breathing heavily, his heartbeat loud in his ears as he looked at her. Sunlight caught in his wet hair, and Zelphira forgot to breathe, leaning back slightly in surprise.
"Did you wait for me, Zelphira?" he asked.
She shook her head quickly, unable to answer.
Aijun chuckled, glanced at her hands, and said, "Then… did you pack this for me?" He took the lunchbox from her grasp. "Thanks, little girl~" he added, walking ahead.
Zelphira stood frozen for a moment, swallowing hard and blinking in disbelief. She shook her head, patted her cheeks, and hurried to walk beside him.
As they walked, Zelphira was silent, trembling slightly as she held the straps of her bag tightly. Aijun, cheerful as always, walked beside her. Noticing her silence, he asked, "Zelphira, what a surprise~ you're quiet today?"
Hearing his voice, she suddenly stopped walking, as if she'd seen a ghost. Aijun walked a few more steps before realizing and turning back. Seeing her frozen in place, he gave her a light smack on the head and teased, "Zelphira, you're zoning out this early in the morning, huh~?"
She blinked at him in surprise, inhaled deeply, and said, "Aijun, can you be silent for now? I'm processing my mind." Then she walked on, looking almost possessed.
Aijun watched her go and whispered, "Why is she acting like this? She's making me giggle." He chuckled to himself and followed.
When they reached her school, Zelphira walked halfway to the gate while Aijun looked on like a proud parent. She suddenly stopped, turned around, waved, and said, "Aijun, finish the breakfast," before hurrying away.
He froze, stunned, then shook his head with a chuckle.
---
At school, Zelphira placed her bag on the desk, sat down, and rested her face on the table. The next second, she kicked her legs in the air and giggled. The students nearby glanced at her in confusion. Straightening up, she fixed her hair and uniform, letting out a quiet chuckle.
Meanwhile, at the office, Aijun set his bag on the desk and sat in his chair. A giggle escaped him, and he spun around in his chair like a child. His friend noticed, frowned, and stopped him. When Aijun opened his eyes, he had a droopy smile on his face.
"Aijun, did you become a kid again, or did you fall in love?" his friend asked, raising an eyebrow.
Aijun giggled. "It's more than that~" he replied, shaking his shoulders before turning to his work.
His friend rubbed his neck and muttered, "What's there other than love?" and started thinking.
---
Back at school, the homeroom teacher entered. The students stood and greeted her.
"Sit down," she said, then continued, "Students, as you know, we're about to finish high school." Her voice grew firm. "We're about to enter a new world, and the college entrance exam is around the corner. To boost your confidence, we'll have a model entrance exam."
The students groaned in unison, murmuring among themselves. The teacher tapped the table to quiet them. "I know you might feel lazy, but it's important. You've worked hard, and your results will show here. From today onward, you'll be preparing for the entrance exam. If you want to stay for the evening study session, you may, or you can study at home."
With that, she clapped her hands and told them to begin. Books opened, and the room filled with the sound of studying. Zelphira focused on her work until 4 p.m., when the students packed their things and left.
---
As Zelphira walked toward the exit, Aijun finished work, packed up, and picked up her lunchbox. Leaving the office, he searched for her among the students but couldn't find her. Quickening his pace, he reached the convenience store and paused, distracted by the shop itself.
Inside, Zelphira was happily eating ramen at a table. Aijun spotted her and smirked. "Zelphira, I found you~"
She turned with noodles in her mouth, narrowed her eyes, and mumbled while chewing, "You're talking like we're playing hide-and-seek~"
Aijun chuckled, sat beside her, and said, "I was searching for you at school, but you're here eating~"
She giggled and asked, "Why did you search for me?"
His voice dropped slightly. "Because I won't let you feel alone, since we became friends~"
Zelphira froze for a moment before coughing.
"Little girl, don't you know how to eat?" he teased, tapping her back.
She drank water, slapped his arm, and asked, "When did we become friends?" before resuming her ramen with trembling hands.
Aijun chuckled, grabbed her bowl, took a pair of chopsticks, and started eating. "This place was where we first met. And we keep meeting again and again these days, so of course we're friends~"
She shot him a side-eye and pulled the bowl back. "Go get your own ramen if you want to eat. Don't take mine," she said with a giggle.
He laughed. "Zelphira, the breakfast was good~ prepare it for me every day."
She looked at him. "Huh~ why don't you cook? And I made that for me, but you took it, and now I'm hungry~" she lied.
Aijun shook his head. "Little girl~ don't lie, or you won't grow tall~" He playfully checked her height.
Zelphira kicked his leg and shot him a bombastic side-eye.
Aijun rubbed his leg in pain, and Zelphira shook her head with a small laugh.
As they stepped out of the shop, they walked side by side down the bustling road. The air was alive with the chatter and laughter of students, mingling with the whisper of the breeze and the gentle rustle of falling leaves.
"Will you come to my college entrance exam?" Zelphira asked, glancing at him with a hopeful smile.
He turned to her, eyebrows lifting. "You're going to write your college entrance exam?" He looked stunned for a moment before adding playfully, "I thought you were just a little girl~" He grinned.
"Do you want me to give you another kick?" she shot back, side-eyeing him.
Aijun laughed. "Noo~ I was just joking. I'll be there when you write your exam—and when you finish it."
She stopped in front of him, lifting her hand. "Pinky promise?"
He chuckled, nodding. Together, they said in unison, "As we promised—Aijun will be waiting for Zelphira when she finishes her exam."
Aijun fell silent, and Zelphira quietly added, "Zelphira would be waiting for him."
He was caught off guard, but deep inside, something warm stirred, and a small smile escaped his lips. Zelphira's bright smile met his faint one, and for a moment, the noise of the world faded away.
The next day, Zelphira went to school and opened her book, studying for the college entrance exam. One by one, students arrived, their focus intense—it was only ten days before the test. They worked through past papers, asking their teachers questions.
Meanwhile, at the office, Aijun typed on his computer, a small smile playing on his lips as he entered Zelphira's name. His colleagues exchanged knowing looks. "Guys, I think he's fallen in love. Look at him acting so weird," one teased. The others nodded in agreement.
Days passed like this. After class, Zelphira would meet Aijun at the convenience store. They'd eat together, talk, and he'd walk her partway home. When she had doubts about her studies, he'd patiently teach her.
One day, Aijun's chief appeared in their department. "Guys, there's a meeting. Come to my office," he said before walking away. They followed.
"As you know," the chief began, "our important app development project has been successfully completed." Applause broke out. Smiling, he continued, "To launch it, we have to go to Korea."
Eyes widened in shock. Aijun frowned. "But chief, we're the ones who created it. Why not launch it in China?" His colleagues nodded.
"Our shareholders are in Korea," the chief explained, "and marketing will be stronger there. We need to ease their minds."
Though still confused, they nodded. "We're leaving tomorrow morning," the chief added. Shock rippled through the group again. "I know it's sudden, but it's a necessary decision." They sighed in unison and returned to their seats.
One colleague groaned. "Huh, I thought I'd finally get some rest after this project, but now Korea?" The others shook their heads in disapproval. Aijun, however, was lost in thought—Zelphira's exam was in two days, and she'd made him promise to be there when she finished. Spinning his pen, he wondered how to tell her.
At school, 4 p.m. came. Students stayed for evening study, teachers guiding them through lessons. Zelphira worked quietly at her desk.
After work, Aijun went to the convenience store, bought food, and waited. An hour passed. No Zelphira. Another half hour. Still no sign. He sighed, guessing she was still studying.
Turning to the empty seat beside him, he imagined her sitting there, smiling. He reached out his hand toward the vision, but she faded. A sad chuckle escaped him.
From his pocket, he slowly took a note and wrote:
> "Zelphira, all the best for your exams. Do well—don't fool around. If you have any doubts, call me."
He added his phone number, then continued:
> "I'll be away for a few days. I'm sorry I can't keep the promise we made that day."
He pasted the note on the wall and left.
After her evening study session ended at 9 p.m., Zelphira took her bag and walked through the street with a pale face, forgetting to stop by the convenience store. She headed straight home, opened the door, dropped her bag on the floor, and collapsed onto her bed, falling asleep within seconds without dinner.
The next morning, Zelphira woke with a start—it was already 8 a.m. She rushed to get ready and hurried to school, skipping breakfast. By the time she arrived, students were still entering the building. She caught her breath, then walked to her class.
That day, the students had a pre–college entrance exam to boost their confidence and test their preparation. Once the question papers were handed out, they began writing. An hour later, the test ended, and the papers were collected. Zelphira stretched her arms, tilting her head in fatigue.
Meanwhile, Aijun finished packing his clothes and left his house. He glanced at his phone—no calls from Zelphira. His face dimmed. I think she's forgotten me in all this chaos, he thought, letting out a quiet sigh before heading to the bus stop.
A cab arrived ten minutes later. He loaded his luggage, closed the trunk, and got in. As the car moved, he gazed out the window—suddenly, it began to snow. Surprised, he rolled the window down, reached out, and let the cold flakes land on his palm.
Back in the classroom, Zelphira sat with her eyes closed as the sound of murmurs rose around her. She opened her eyes, turned toward the window, and saw the snow falling softly. She stood and walked closer, watching it drift down. A smile touched her lips.
Huh… I forgot to meet him yesterday, she thought, the smile lingering. He must be angry now. She shook her head gently, still looking out at the snow.
On the other hand, Aijun arrived at the airport where his colleagues and the chief were already waiting. He stepped out of the car, took his luggage, and closed the door. Looking up, he noticed the snow falling even more heavily.
His friends hurried toward him with smiles, grabbing his bags before they all walked inside. Aijun's gaze lingered on the snow for a moment longer. Slowly, he turned with a faint look of disappointment and checked his phone again—still no call from her. His eyes grew misty, but he forced himself to understand: she must be busy.
The team boarded the plane, and soon they were in the air. Aijun leaned toward the window, gazing at the sea of clouds below. He took a picture and, with a quiet thought, wondered, Zelphira… when will you call me? Did you forget about the store and our meeting?
Back at school, as the students prepared for tomorrow's exams, their homeroom teacher entered holding the answer sheets. The class froze, bracing for bad news.
"You… have really done—" she paused dramatically, "—well!"
Relieved laughter rippled through the room. "Better than in our school's practice exams," she added with a grin. "I'm proud of you all. Remember your ID and hall ticket tomorrow, and be on time."
Zelphira's heart swelled as she saw her score. Top of the class again. She giggled to herself. At last, after these exams, I can be free.
Meanwhile, on the plane to Korea, Aijun stared at his phone, still no message from her. "Didn't sleep last night?" his friend asked. Aijun just shook his head. His friend muttered, "Is he lovesick or something?"
After school, Zelphira walked home in the falling snow. She stopped by the convenience store, but it was closed. I wanted to treat him to a meal… She rubbed her hands together for warmth and continued home, unaware that Aijun had left a note for her inside.
The next morning, she woke early to fresh snow. Scarf wrapped snugly, hall ticket in hand, she headed for her exam. She scanned the cheering crowd outside the school, hoping to see him. She waited half an hour, but when the time came, she walked inside with a pale face.
The test went smoothly—she knew all the answers—but as she left at noon, she felt the cold more sharply without him there. Passing the convenience store, still closed, she sighed and went home.
In Korea, Aijun's week was a blur of work. They launched the app successfully, and his chief suggested a celebration party. "I'll pass," Aijun said. "I have someone important to see tomorrow." His chief protested there were no flights to China that night, but Aijun only smirked and left.
It took several tries to get a cab, but soon he was on his way, his heart pounding with anticipation.
For the past week, Zelphira had searched for him daily, waiting in the cold outside the store until evening, always going home disappointed.
Sunday morning, she walked through town, passing the pharmacy where they'd first met, the big tree where she had once danced. Sunlight streamed through the snowy branches, and on impulse, she lifted her arms and began a slow, graceful ballad.
His cab slowed near the big tree, and there she was—dancing in the snow, sunlight turning the flakes around her into drifting gold. For a heartbeat, he forgot to breathe. "Zelphira…"
She turned, lowering her arms, her eyes wide. "Aijun…" Her voice trembled, tears spilling down her cheeks.
He laughed through his own tears, She ran into his arms, her scarf brushing his chin, just like that windy day at the convenience store. His hands, the same ones that had once stolen her breakfast, now held her like they'd never let go.
"You promised you'd be there after my exam," she sobbed, "but you didn't come."
"Did you see the note I left in the store?" he asked, patting her back.
"What note?"
"I wrote that I couldn't keep my promise, told you to do well on your exam, and left my number."
She chuckled through her tears. "The shop's been closed all week. I waited there every day."
His eyes softened. "It must have been so cold." He took her hands, warming them gently between his own.
That day, though neither confessed their feelings aloud and there, under falling snow, their promise—once broken—found its way home.
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"I honestly just sat down and wrote this without any big plans, so I have no idea how it turned out 😅. But I really hope you enjoyed it! If you did, drop a comment and tell me what you think—it'll make my day!"