As The Petals Fall

Learning to trust

Hayoung awoke early to the smell of pancakes and smokey bacon. Her eyes slowly adjusted to the morning light filtering through the window, casting a warm glow over the room. Her stomach growled softly, drawn by the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen. She blinked twice, trying to fully awaken from her deep slumber, and rubbed her eyes, wondering if she was still dreaming "who... is that cooking?" she murmured, her voice husky from sleep.

Jasper turned to face Hayoung and gave her a charming smile, his apron dusted with flour. "Good morning, i hope you like pancakes."

Hayoung stared at him, her mind foggy from sleep, struggling to understand why he was in their kitchen wearing an apron. "u-uh, good morning..." she said, trying to shake off the haze."Did i miss something?"

Jasper chuckled softly. "Oh right, I asked Saerom if i could cook breakfast for you guys this morning, i figured you could all use a pick-me-up after last night's events."

She sat up, rubbing her temples as she tried to clear her head. "um, I think we could definitely use a pick-me-up." A faint smile plays on her lips. "Thank you for doing this for us, Jasper."

Jasper beckoned her over to the table and placed a cup of warm earl grey tea in front of an empty seat on the table.

Hayoung rose carefully, stretching her legs and arms, giving a gentle yawn. "good morning, Jasper." she said as she shuffled over to the table, her movements still sluggish from sleep. Picking up the cup, she inhaled the citrusy aroma of bergamot and felt a wave of comfort wash over her.

Jasper knelt down beside her and stared up at her, his caring gaze peircing her eyes. "how are you doing this morning?"

She blinked slowly, her expression softening as she absorbed his concern* "i'm feeling much better, Jasper. thank you for asking".

He smiled brightly as he stood up and headed back to the kitchen, ready to place the mountains of food on the table.

She watched him move back into the kitchen, her gaze tracing his path as she pondered the meaning behind his thoughtful gestures. She found herself smiling weakly, appreciative of his efforts to brighten her morning.

As Jasper finished the final placing of food on the table, he heard the other members coming down stairs to join them.

Hayoung perked up slightly as she heard the others approaching, her eyes lighting up with warmth and,

The members each passed by her, giving her a hug, grateful that she wasn't harmed last night

Hayoung blushed slightly at the display of affection, feeling touched by her teammates' concern. She return their hugs, holding them tightly and speaking in a soft voice. "thank you all..."

As everyone gathered around the table, Jasper stood and addressed the group. "May this food nourish your bodies and provide you with renewed strength to conquer the day."

At once, the members dived into the food, savoring the sweetness of it as they enjoyed eachothers company.

Hayoung took a bite of a fluffy pancake, the syrup dripping down her chin. She giggled softly as she dabbed it away with a napkin, relishing the simple pleasure of sharing a meal together with her friends.

Jasper glanced over at Hayoung, his eyes warm and tender, feeling relieved to see her enjoying herself.

Catching his eye, Hayoung felt a flutter of nervous excitement. She quickly lowered her gaze, her cheeks flushing with a delicate pink hue. She forced herself to focus on the food, picking up another piece of crispy bacon and nibbling its edge.