𝑯𝒆'𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒆𝒓 | 𝑵𝒊𝒌𝒊 𝑭𝑭

cut

MONDAY

~Eunji~

The annoying sound of my alarm pulled me out of a cozy dream, and with a grumble, I reached to shut it off. Determination replaced sleepiness as I remembered my plan – a morning run to kickstart the day. Rolling out of bed, I tossed on my go-to running gear, a mismatched ensemble that screamed comfort over fashion.

Lacing up my sneakers, I couldn't ignore the anticipation bubbling within. The city outside my window was still draped in the quietude of dawn, and the prospect of having the streets to myself fueled my excitement. As I stepped out, the chill in the air hit me, awakening my senses and invigorating my sleepy limbs.

My playlist became the soundtrack to my solo adventure, drowning out the world as I jogged through familiar streets. With every stride, I felt the heaviness of the night lifting, replaced by the lightness of the morning. Thoughts meandered through my mind – plans for the day, random musings, and the sheer joy of being in motion.

Passing a corner café, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee tempted me, and I succumbed. "A quick caffeine boost won't hurt," I reasoned, sipping the warmth that contrasted the cool breeze outside. Energized, I continued my journey, the city gradually stirring as I weaved through its awakening alleys.

A nearby park beckoned, revealing a group engaged in the slow, graceful movements of tai chi. "Why not?" I thought, joining their meditative dance. Surprisingly, the deliberate motions felt strangely soothing, a harmonious break from my usual frenetic pace.

As the sun climbed higher, casting a golden hue over the city, I concluded my run with a contented sigh. The morning had unfolded unexpectedly, turning a simple jog into a mosaic of experiences. Unlocking my front door, I marveled at the day's spontaneity, grateful for the unexpected detours that added color to my routine.

While I was Jogging I saw a small breakfast café

The delicious aroma of breakfast lured me into a charming little shop, the promise of a satisfying meal too tempting to resist. The jingle of the door announced my arrival, and the cozy atmosphere enveloped me as I scanned the menu.

Choosing a classic breakfast combo, I settled into a corner, eagerly awaiting my order. The rhythmic sizzling of bacon and the rich scent of coffee filled the air, creating a comforting symphony. The first sip of coffee was a warm embrace, and the first bite of a fluffy pancake was pure morning delight.

Lost in the simple pleasure of a good breakfast, I couldn't help but appreciate the spontaneity of the moment. Life, much like breakfast choices, sometimes surprises you with unexpected delights. With a satisfied smile, I finished my meal, grateful for the impromptu detour that added an extra dose of joy to my day. Fueled not just by the morning run, but by the unexpected delights of that charming breakfast spot, I stepped back into the bustling city with a contented heart.

With a contented sigh, I pushed my chair back and rose from the cozy corner of the breakfast spot. The satisfying meal had replenished my energy, and I was ready to hit the pavement again. The city had come alive with the hustle and bustle of the morning, and I joined in, determined to make the most of the day.

As I resumed jogging, the lingering flavors of breakfast accompanied me, a pleasant reminder of the impromptu stop. The streets, now teeming with activity, provided a vibrant backdrop to my run. Each step carried a newfound lightness, fueled by the combination of exercise and a good meal.

Passing familiar landmarks, I marveled at how a simple morning run had evolved into a delightful adventure. The unexpected twists – from tai chi in the park to a charming breakfast spot – had transformed my routine into a series of memorable moments. And there I was, weaving through the city streets with a grin, appreciating the beauty of spontaneity.

The sun climbed higher, casting long shadows, but my pace remained steady. As I embraced the rhythm of my jog, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the small pleasures that added color to my day. With each stride, I carried not just the physical momentum but also the warmth of a good breakfast and the thrill of unexpected discoveries.

My jog led me to an unexpected discovery – a quaint strawberry farm nestled on the outskirts of the city. Intrigued, I decided to take a detour and explore. The vibrant red hues of the ripe strawberries glistened under the sun, inviting me to join the picking fun.

Entering the farm, I was handed a small basket and directed to rows of luscious strawberry plants. The simple joy of plucking the juiciest strawberries and placing them in my cup became a therapeutic exercise. The sweet aroma of fresh strawberries surrounded me, creating a sensory haven amidst the greenery.

As I meandered through the rows, carefully selecting each berry, the task became more than just filling a cup. It was a moment of connection with nature, a pause from the urban hustle. The sun beamed down, casting a warm glow over the strawberry-laden fields, and I couldn't help but revel in the delightful simplicity of the experience.

With my cup filled to the brim, I made my way to the payment counter, exchanging smiles with fellow strawberry enthusiasts. As I took the first bite of those sun-kissed strawberries, their sweetness burst on my taste buds, and I couldn't help but marvel at the serendipity that led me to this unexpected haven.

The strawberry farm had become another unexpected chapter in my morning adventure, a vivid addition to the mosaic of moments that defined my day. With the taste of freshly picked strawberries lingering on my lips, I continued my jog, grateful for the unplanned delights that turned a routine run into a tapestry of joy.

° Author's POV °

Eunji was jogging through the familiar streets, the rhythmic beat of her footsteps accompanying the early morning stillness. As she turned a corner, her eyes caught sight of a figure walking with a noticeable slump, head down. A closer look revealed Ni-ki, a friend whose usual lively spirit seemed overshadowed by visible cuts and bruises.

Concern etched across her face, she slowed her pace and approached him. "Ni-ki?" she called out, her voice a mix of surprise and worry. He looked up, a flicker of recognition in his eyes, but fatigue seemed to hang heavy on his shoulders.

"What happened?" Eunji asked, her voice gentle as she took in the injuries that marked Ni-ki's face, hands, and legs. Ni-ki hesitated for a moment, then sighed, as if grappling with whether to share the weight he carried. "My parents," he began, his words carrying a weight of their own.

As they continued walking together, Ni-ki unraveled a story of familial discord, where the clashes of his parents spilled into his own world. "It's like they're stuck in this never-ending battle and they Put me in their fight somehow," he expressed, his frustration evident.

Eunji listened, offering a supportive presence, as Ni-ki shared the complexities of his family dynamics. He spoke of arguments, of a turbulent household, yet beneath it all, there was an undercurrent of something deeper. "My parents were always abusive to me" Ni-ki admitted, a mix of confusion and acceptance in his tone.

"Can I ask you a quick question?" Ni-ki's words hung in the air, a pause in our conversation that felt heavier than anticipated. His eyes, a mix of weariness and vulnerability, met mine.

"Of course," I replied, my tone gentle, sensing there was more beneath the surface. Ni-ki hesitated for a moment, as if gathering the courage to voice what lay on his mind.

"Can I stay at your house for a few days?" he finally asked, his words carrying the weight of an unspoken story. The request caught me by surprise, yet the sincerity in his eyes was undeniable.

Understanding the gravity of his situation, I nodded, "Absolutely, Ni-ki. You're always welcome at my place." As we continued walking, the city sounds around us faded into the background, leaving us with the unspoken understanding that sometimes, a haven is found in the warmth of a Enemy's home.

yalll i hope you like this chapterrrr

I fell in love with 'can i stay at your house for a few days?' for some reason

hint for the next chapter: 'some people are just oblivious Eunji Don't let it bother u'

Bye HL's

-evelyn