Chapter 1

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"Meet me halfway"
      Chapter 1

On this ordinary day, the train arrived promptly before 7:30 in the morning, a whole 10 minutes ahead of schedule, ideal for his upcoming appointment in the city. With anticipation building for his first job interview, the gentleman calmly boarded the train, gracefully settling into his seat. Retrieving his pocket diary from inside pocket from his suit, he prepared himself for the important day ahead. He quietly read the words, letters, and sentences from his pocket diary, enveloped in the tranquil atmosphere of the train. Suddenly, the serenity was broken when a girl leaned her head on the gentleman's shoulder. Glancing sideways, he realized she was fast asleep, almost drooling. Beside her, a nervous-looking lady quickly pulled the girl back to her side.

"I'm sorry for my younger sister," the lady apologized, explaining the girl's habit of leaning on strangers while asleep.

The gentleman nodded understandingly, unfazed by the interruption. Returning to his diary, he noticed the girl remaining in deep slumber even as the lady resettled her on her own shoulder. As time passed, the train reached its destination in the city.

The gentleman alighted from the train and strolled through bustling streets until he reached his destination—a towering edifice where his companions toiled. Ascending the staircase with poise, he arrived at his intended floor. Gently tapping on the door, a voice beckoned from within, granting him entry. With hopeful anticipation, he turned the knob, entered, and closed the door behind him, hoping that his interview would go well.
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After successfully completing his interview, the gentleman received the exciting news that he had secured the desired position. His new boss wasted no time, instructing him to begin his duties the following day, starting with reporting on current city issues as a journalist. Anticipating the busyness ahead, the gentleman boarded the last train of the night. Reflecting on his acceptance, he settled into a seat, enjoying a sandwich purchased just before boarding. Lost in thought, he savored the quiet moments, contemplating the challenges and adventures awaiting him in the days to come.

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Another ordinary day unfolded for the gentleman, yet again. He meticulously prepared for his upcoming assignment, packing essentials into his suitcase and adorning himself in a conservative suit topped with a homburg hat. Boarding the train, he sought a serene refuge to ponder, settling into his seat and retrieving his pocket diary from within his suit jacket. As he perused its contents to stave off boredom, his gaze fell upon the girl from yesterday, peacefully slumbering, her head nestled on a nearby lady's shoulder. Curiosity briefly stirred within him regarding their daily commutes, but he dismissed the thought, focusing on his reading.

Rolling hills, draped in emerald-green pastures, greeted his destination, offering an idyllic haven for reflection and a breath of fresh air.

Upon arrival, as he rose from his seat, a felt hat nearly escaped through the window, only to be caught by his swift reflexes. Handing it to the girl who claimed it as hers, he was taken aback by the unexpected encounter.

"Thank you, Mister...?"

"Just call me Py."

Her amusement at his name was evident.

"Oh, I'm Jae."

Py presumed her name was spelled 'Jay.'

"What a beautiful name, Jae. Quite unexpected for a woman," he remarked, slightly embarrassed.

"Oh, no, no, it's spelled J-A-E," she clarified, sharing a laugh at his assumption.

Apologizing for his mistake, Py rubbed his neck in embarrassment.

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