GOLDEN TALENT | VKOOK ✓

18 | ECHOES OF FRIENDSHIP

Winter descended on the bustling city, wrapping its icy embrace around Seoul's streets. Snowflakes delicately danced through the air, turning the landscape into a magical wonderland. A chance meeting awaited two souls destined to weave their lives together in the tapestry of friendship in the frosty chill.

Kim Taehyung stepped onto the snow-kissed path that led him through the heart of the city, bundled in layers of warmth. His breath became soft puffs of mist as he made his way to a nearby café, seeking refuge from the frosty touch of winter. He had no idea that fate had painted an extraordinary encounter onto the canvas of that wintry day.

A burst of warmth enveloped Taehyung inside the café, thawing the chill from his cheeks and welcoming him into a cosy sanctuary. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet scent of pastries, inviting him to investigate the haven of comfort in the midst of winter's icy grip.

His gaze wandered across the room as he settled into a corner booth, taking in the sight of others seeking refuge from the biting cold. Then his gaze was drawn to a pair of captivating doe-like orbs that seemed to reflect the frosty enchantment of winter.

Park Jimin returned Taehyung's gaze with a smile as bright as a sunbeam on freshly fallen snow. Their gazes locked in an instant connection.

Taehyung's curiosity beckoned, and he invited Jimin to join him at the table with a friendly gesture. They exchanged pleasantries, their voices carrying the melody of newfound friendship in the café's cosy ambiance.

No, you are not hearing things incorrectly. Taehyung has set himself the goal of becoming more social. 

Yes, today was the day. 

Perhaps you're wondering where it came from.

Taehyung's gaze was drawn to a group of children joyfully building snowmen, their laughter echoing in the crisp air as he walked. He was astounded by their uninhibited camaraderie and their ability to connect and share moments of pure happiness. He felt a pang of longing within him, urging him to leave his comfort zone and enter the world of human connection.

Taehyung's thoughts wandered to the countless missed opportunities, unspoken conversations, and friendships yet to be formed. He realised that the warmth of companionship and the richness of shared experiences were just out of reach, patiently beckoning him to take that first brave step.

A soft smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he imagined a future in which he could effortlessly navigate social interactions, free of shyness or hesitation. Taehyung imagined himself surrounded by a diverse tapestry of friendships, where laughter echoed through the air like a melodic symphony and his life was woven with colourful threads of connection.

But thoughts alone were insufficient. Taehyung understood that change demanded action. He resolved to embrace vulnerability and break through the invisible walls that had held him captive for far too long. He would seek out opportunities to interact with others and immerse himself in social situations that had previously seemed intimidating.

Taehyung imagined himself engaging in conversations, his words flowing with ease and confidence. He imagined himself attending parties and events, effortlessly mingling, and making connections that would enrich his life in unimaginable ways. He was ecstatic at the prospect of opening his heart to new experiences and like-minded people.

Taehyung felt a stirring of excitement as he continued his walk, as if the winter wind itself carried whispers of encouragement. mHe came to a halt in the middle of his walk, hands in his pockets, and looked up at the sky, which seemed to be filling up with snow. He was spending his first winter in Seoul. It's November, almost December, which means he'll try his hardest not to return to Daegu for his birthday or New Year's. He's still surprised by how quickly the semester flew by, but he's no God to change the course of events.