ACATALEPSY I BTS AU

CHAPTER 4 - Dancing with duality

**In the Afternoon After University...** 

After a long morning at university, you found comfort in the familiar embrace of Christie, the cozy café you worked at...a place that had become like a second home.

Jin, your friendly boss behind the counter, greeted you with his signature warm smile, instantly brightening your mood. After a quick exchange of pleasantries, he handed you your tasks for the shift with his usual efficiency.

A couple of hours later, while wiping down a table by the window, a familiar figure stepped through the door. It was a friend and longtime customer you hadn't seen in quite some time.

You waved, and he returned the gesture with that effortless charm he always carried. His style was anything but conventional....relaxed, yet undeniably chic...the kind that turned heads without trying.

"Heyyy, you're looking snatched as usual," you said, unable to hide your admiration.

He responded with a playful pout. "Let's say good," he teased, flashing that boxy smile that could light up the whole room.

Curious, you asked, "What shall I get for you today?"

"The usual," he answered, steady and familiar, his smile unwavering.

"Here or to go?" You already knew the answer. He came not just for the treats but to catch a glimpse of you. Over time, his fondness for the café's sweets had made him a devoted regular, despite his recent absence.

In the past, he'd come nearly every day, grabbing a quick coffee or tea. Knowing your work schedule, he'd occasionally tease Jin by flirting with you and you often found him at the same exhibition openings and cultural events,,,like the recent foundation inauguration dedicated to Louise Bourgeois.

As you finished packing his order, he surprised you with a question.

"How's university treating you?"

You looked up, meeting his gaze. "Good, everything's normal. And you? How's the boutique?"

His eyes sparkled with excitement. "Great! You really should drop by sometime. There are a few things I want to show you."

The idea of stepping again into his world outside the café made your heart flutter. "I'd love that!" you exclaimed, handing him the bag.

You stayed chatting a little longer, savoring the easy warmth of this unexpected reunion.

**The Night of the Event...** 

The night of the highly anticipated event had finally arrived, thick with anticipation and just a hint of nerves. Standing in front of the mirror, you studied your reflection, doubt creeping in like a quiet shadow.

"Are you sure this makeup is okay? Isn't it a bit much? My face feels so heavy," you grumbled, voice tinged with uncertainty.

"Nah, you look great...actually, too good. Now I'm going to look like a boiled potato standing next to you, dammit," your friend teased with a playful smirk. With delicate precision, she dabbed a light layer of lipstick on your lower lip.

Her words brought a reluctant smile to your face, and you pulled her into a quick hug. "Don't say that...you're the prettiest babe I've ever seen," you murmured.

"Don't ever underestimate yourself, Y/N," she said softly, her words settling deep. "You've got your own kind of magic."

"You're right. I shouldn't minimize myself...everyone has their own charms," you replied, watching her gently fix a stray lock of your hair.