Ramyeon ✓

Chapter 3

The next evening, Iseul arrived at the convenience store a few minutes early. She smoothed out her uniform and took a deep breath before stepping inside. The previous night's encounter with Junseo had left her with a sense of anticipation she couldn't quite explain.

As the hours passed, the store remained mostly quiet, with only a few customers coming and going.

"Thank you. Come again." she said with a smile as she handed the change to the customer.

While waiting for another customer, Iseul busied herself with organizing shelves, checking expiration dates, and cleaning up the aisles. She kept glancing at the door, half expecting the boy to walk in at any moment.

At 10 PM, just like the nights before, the familiar chime echoed through the store. Iseul's heart skipped a beat as she turned to see him walk in. He headed straight for the ramyeon section, picked up a cup, and then grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge.

"You know," Iseul said as he approached the counter, "if you pair your ramyeon with some kimchi, it's really delicious."

"Is that so?" Junseo replied, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

"Definitely," she assured him, nodding toward the aisle where the kimchi was stocked.

Junseo turned back to the aisles, grabbed a small container of kimchi, and returned to the counter. He placed it next to his usual items, his gaze meeting Iseul's with a hint of a smile.

As he paid, Iseul felt a sense of satisfaction. It was a small gesture, but it meant something. She watched as Junseo took his usual seat by the window, opening his ramyeon and mixing in the kimchi. He took a bite, and she saw his eyes widen slightly in appreciation.

The store was quiet, with only the hum of the refrigerator and the soft buzz of the overhead lights. Iseul went back to her tasks, occasionally glancing at Junseo, who seemed more relaxed, more at ease with the new addition to his meal. There was a calmness about him that she found intriguing. She wondered why someone his age would spend their evenings alone in a convenience store.

"Thanks for the suggestion," he said, his voice carrying a warmth that made her smile.

"Anytime," she replied, feeling a pleasant warmth spread through her chest. Junseo packed his things and waved goodbye. Iseul simply gave him a nod in response.

"See you tomorrow."