The morning after the festival, Min opened the shop earlier than usual. The streets were quieter, the echoes of last night's laughter replaced by the gentle bustle of everyday life. He hummed softly as he arranged fresh flowers, still carrying the glow of the festival in his heart.
The goldfish swam lazily in its small bowl on the counter, a reminder of Kei's quiet thoughtfulness. Every time Min's gaze landed on it, his chest warmed. He touched the rim of the bowl lightly, whispering, "I'll take good care of you."
The bell above the door jingled, and Airi breezed in, her hair tied up loosely. "Good morning, Min! You look suspiciously cheerful today." She leaned closer, squinting at his face. "Is it because of a certain someone?"
Min flushed instantly. "I-It's nothing like that! I just… enjoyed the festival."
"Mm-hm." Airi grinned, unconvinced. She plucked a flower from the nearest vase and twirled it in her fingers. "Well, I'm happy you're smiling more. Makes the shop brighter."
Before Min could retort, the bell chimed again. A tall figure stepped inside, someone unfamiliar. The stranger's confident posture and sharp smile immediately caught attention. His eyes flicked briefly to the flowers before settling directly on Min.
"Ah," the man said smoothly. "So this is the shop everyone in town's been talking about."
Min blinked, startled. "Welcome… Is there something you're looking for?"
The man's gaze lingered on Min a moment too long before he chuckled. "Not yet. I'm just browsing."
Airi, sensing the shift, narrowed her eyes but said nothing.
The stranger walked leisurely around the shop, his fingers brushing the petals of a camellia before he looked back at Min. "You arrange these yourself?"
"Yes," Min answered carefully.
"Impressive." His smile deepened, carrying something unreadable. "I think I'll be back."
With that, he left as swiftly as he came, leaving a faint trail of unease in the air.
Min exhaled slowly, glancing at Airi. She raised her brows. "Well… he was definitely… something."
Min frowned, his good mood from the morning shaken just a little.
Outside, the streets carried on as usual, but Min couldn't help wondering if his peaceful days were about to change.
To be continued...