Autumn's whispers

Chapter 3: Unexpected Encounter

The crisp autumn air whispered of change as Hye-bora, her grin mischievous, stumbled upon Hyun-woo and Eun-hee in their casual hangout. The café, tucked into a quiet corner of the city, emitted a cozy vibe with its warm and lighting decor, providing solace from the bustling streets.

Hye-bora, clad in a denim jacket adorned with vibrant anime patches, exuded a playful charm. Her outfit, complemented by a white t-shirt, jeans, and colorful sneakers, reflected her lively spirit. Meanwhile, the café boasted shelves filled with vintage books and walls adorned with posters of classic films, adding to its allure.

"Didn't expect to find you here, Hyun-woo. And with such charming company," Hye-bora remarked, her gaze bouncing between the two friends.

Hyun-woo, caught off guard by Hye-bora's sudden appearance, felt his cheeks flush. "Um, yeah... Just catching up, you know?"

Eun-hee, ever composed, extended her hand towards Hye-bora. "Hi, I'm Eun-hee. Nice to meet you."

Hye-bora's eyes lingered on Eun-hee for an extra beat, a silent understanding passing between them, before she accepted the handshake. "Likewise. So, what brings you two together on this lovely autumn day?"

Hyun-woo, unsure of how much to reveal to his childhood friend, hesitated before offering a vague explanation. "Just hanging out, really."

Eun-hee interjected smoothly, filling the silence with her diplomatic charm. "We're just having a coffee, that's all," she replied, her demeanor unwavering.

"Oh, is that so? Well, excuse me but I'm gonna intrupt , " Hye-bora said with a wink, heading to the counter to place her order.

Eun-hee leans closer to Hyun-woo, her voice barely above a whisper. "I think she likes you," she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

Hyun-woo shake his head in disbelief. "Nope, She's always been a little bit eccentric."

"So, what's her story? How do you two know each other?"
"We grew up together, actually She's my neighbor and she's always been a bit of a wild child, but She's always been there for me, whenever I was being bullied"

Eun-hee smiles gently. "She sounds like a great friend. You're lucky to have her."
Hyun-woo nod's, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah, I guess I am."

Hyun-woo is about to change the subject when Hye-bora returns, plopping down in the seat next to him.

"So, Eun-hee," Hye-bora begins, her eyes narrowed in scrutiny. "What are your intentions with my dear friend, Hyun-woo?"

Hyun-woo's mouth opens and closes, a mixture of embarrassment and disbelief. Eun-hee's expression, meanwhile, remains cool and collected.

"Oh, we're just catching up. Nothing serious," Eun-hee replies, her tone nonchalant.

"Well, that's good. Because he's way too good for you," Hye-bora retorts, a challenging glint in her eye.

Eun-hee lets out a soft laugh, amused by the banter. "I think he can decide that for himself."

Hyun-woo clears his throat, trying to defuse the tension. "I'm right here, you know."

"We know, darling," Hye-bora says with a dismissive wave of her hand. "But seriously, what are you two up to? And don't give me any of that 'just hanging out' nonsense."

Eun-hee shrugged, a coy smile on her face. "Like I said, we're just catching up. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go use the restroom."

With that, Eun-hee gracefully rose from her seat and walked off, leaving Hyun-woo alone with Hye-bora.