Ramyeon ✓

Chapter 2

Junseo was a regular at the convenience store. His habit of eating ramyeon at the store each night brought him a sense of comfort and peace. It was a small escape from the pressures of his daily life.

That evening, he pushed open the store’s door at his usual time, the familiar chime signaling his arrival. He headed straight for the ramyeon aisle, grabbing his favorite packet and a bottle of water. As he approached the counter, he was slightly surprised to see a new cashier. His gaze briefly met hers as he handed over the items. She had a friendly smile and seemed eager, though a bit tired. 

When she handed him his change, he noticed her name tag: "Iseul."

Junseo carried his ramyeon and took his usual seat by the window. As he began to eat, he couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. A quick glance confirmed it— Iseul was looking at him from behind the counter. Her curiosity was obvious, but Junseo wasn’t bothered by it. In fact, he found it somewhat amusing.

Finishing his ramyeon, he cleaned up, disposed of his trash, and gave Iseul a slight nod before leaving the store. That short encounter with the new cashier had left him with a lingering curiosity and Junseo found himself anticipating his next visit to the store more than usual.

The following night, when Junseo walked in, Iseul was there again, her eyes lighting up as she recognized him. He picked up his ramyeon and water, and as he paid, she broke the silence.

"Back again for more ramyeon?" she asked with a friendly smile.

Junseo looked up, meeting her gaze. He wasn’t really expecting a conversation and was slightly surprised by the question. "Yeah, it's kind of my thing."

"I see, I'm Iseul, by the way," she said, handing him his change.

"Junseo," he replied, slipping the coins into his pocket.

"It’s nice to meet you, then." Iseul said, her smile widening.  

As Junseo gazed at her, he couldn't help but notice her delicate features. Her long, dark hair was neatly tied back, revealing a smooth forehead. Her eyes, a deep shade of brown, sparkled with a blend of curiosity and warmth. Her cheeks had a natural rosy hue, and her smile was genuine, lighting up her entire face. There was an air of kindness about her that made her approachable and comforting.

Junseo couldn’t help but also feel a sense of ease in her presence. It was rare for him to find someone who made him feel this way with such little effort. He returned her smile and headed to his usual seat by the window.

That night, Junseo thought the ramyeon tasted different—it was somehow richer and more comforting.