The Silent Symphony

You can Stay

It's been three weeks since I started working at the cafe, and everything is going smoothly. I've managed to save up money from my earnings during these past weeks, and if I continue working for two more weeks, I'll have enough money to buy the tickets. I'm really hoping they release the bookings next week.

The mysterious guy also visits the cafe almost every day, but the amount of food he orders varies greatly. Sometimes, it's food for a group of people, and other times, he orders just one drink for himself. I have not seen his face, but I really want to talk to him, but I'm too shy to approach him.

I came back to the dorm earlier than usual because Mirae had been calling me to return quickly. As soon as I entered the room, Mirae enthusiastically pulled me along and led me to the amphitheater. I kept asking her what was going on, but she only said I'd find out soon. When we arrived, I saw Jake, Jay, and Minji sitting there. As soon as they saw me, they eagerly announced that the ticket bookings would be available in 2 minutes, and we should book them as soon as they open. I was taken aback because the money I had been saving might not be enough for a ticket. I didn't know how to tell them.

Jake noticed my expression and asked if everything was okay, mentioning that I should be the most excited among us. Minji reassured me, saying, "Yes, babe, what's wrong? Don't worry; we'll get it!" I simply nodded. Then Jay chimed in, "Even if there's a website crash, I have my ways to get the tickets, so no one needs to worry about anything." He indirectly reassured me, and everyone was surprised. Over the past few weeks, Jay and I had been gradually getting along better. The insults and fights between us had reduced.

Finally, it was time, and Mirae opened the website. Luckily, there was no website crash. Mirae selected the front-row seats, and she mentioned the price of one ticket: "$365 each." I stood there, frozen, because I had only saved $200. Everyone else quickly sent their money to Mirae, but I was still hesitating. Mirae said, "I've received everyone's money except for Sarah's. Please send it quickly. I need to confirm the booking in 2 minutes." Tears welled up in my eyes as I admitted, "Guys, I could only save $200. I don't have enough money. You guys go ahead, and I'll book it next week."

Jay immediately stepped in and said, "I've sent her share of the money too. Book it quickly." Mirae nodded, and she began the booking process. I looked at Jay, and he was focused on the screen. "Jay, thank you. I'll pay you back once I get my salary." With that, I sent him the money I had saved, and he simply nodded. I couldn't believe that Jay had helped me, as he was the last person I expected to come to my aid.

Mirae sighed, giving a sad look, which worried Minji. She asked, "What's wrong? Is it confirmed?" Then, Mirae set the laptop aside, stood up, and exclaimed, "WE WILL BE GOING TO THE STRAY KIDS CONCERT! IT'S CONFIRMED!"

Everyone erupted with joy. I started jumping around, and tears flowed down my face uncontrollably. Mirae hugged Jake, and Jay hugged me and Minji. I was overwhelmed with happiness. My dream was finally coming true, and the mere thought of seeing Stray Kids live made me feel like I was on cloud nine. 

"Everyone let's go out and celebrate! The treat is on me," Jay exclaimed, and Jake added, "Let's meet near the gate in 30 minutes. Even if we pass the curfew time, we can stay at my house!" "Yes, let's go!" Minji said, and with that, we all headed to our respective dorms to get ready. We met at the gate and then went to the karaoke bar to celebrate.

We had an amazing time singing songs and celebrating. I noticed that everyone was just as excited about the concert as I was. For me, it felt like a dream come true, so I was the happiest among everyone. I ended up drinking quite a bit to celebrate this moment. I also felt immensely grateful to Jay because, without his help, I don't think I would have been able to get the tickets. I wasn't sure what had prompted his gentlemanly behavior, as he had never acted that way, at least not with me.

We took a break because everyone was exhausted. I saw Jake and Mirae having a pleasant conversation, while Jay and Minji were engrossed in their own discussion. That's when my thoughts drifted to the mysterious guy. I found myself wanting to know more about him. I've dated in the past, so it's not like I lack experience, but whenever he's around, I feel incredibly intimidated. I didn't want to date him because I hadn't even seen his face; I was simply interested in him.

At one point, I even speculated that he might be a celebrity since he always covered his face, and his voice sounded oddly familiar. It seemed like he came to the cafe just to see me, but I knew I could be quite delusional at times. In my imagination, I was already married to Bang Chan. With all these thoughts swirling in my head, I chuckled and went to pick a song to sing.

I selected "The Happiest Girl" by BLACKPINK because I felt like the happiest girl at that moment. I began singing wholeheartedly, and tears welled up in my eyes. I had been a K-pop fan for eight years, and this was going to be my first concert. The thought of it overwhelmed me and the tears started flowing, and I was too tipsy to care about my surroundings. Everyone asked if I was okay, and I signaled to them that these were tears of joy. The night continued in this cheerful way, and we all had a great time singing songs and enjoying our drinks. 

Since it was very late, and we were in no condition to return to the dorm, we went to Jake's house, which happened to be the closest. His parents weren't home, so we had the whole house to ourselves. As soon as we arrived, everyone went to sleep.

The next two weeks passed by in a flash. I was eagerly awaiting the day of the concert, and I had also decided to talk to the mysterious stranger. Unfortunately, he didn't show up for the past two weeks. I wasn't sure why I was so concerned, but I reminded myself not to think about him when I had other things to focus on, like the concert! I can't contain my excitement! I just can't wait to see them!

**********

Wow! It's finally the concert day!

1. How excited are you for the concert?

2. So is Jay a bully or a softie?

Feel free to share your thoughts!