Chapter 4

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by msquackyquirky

by msquackyquirky

The next few nights followed the same routine. Junseo would arrive at 10 PM, buy his ramyeon and water, and quietly eat by the window. They exchanged small talk each time, gradually learning little bits about each other.

Each night, he noticed new details about her— the way she tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear when she was focused, the faint freckles that dotted her nose, the way her eyes lit up when she talked about something she loved. These small observations built up a picture of someone genuine and kind, someone he wanted to know better.

"So, Iseul, why are you working in a convenience store? You seem like you have a lot of potential for other things."

Iseul looked thoughtful for a moment before answering. "Well, it's a temporary job. I'm saving up for college. I want to study literature and eventually become a writer. This job helps me get closer to that dream."

"I'm sure you'll make an amazing writer.” Junseo said, impressed. “And I’d love to read your stories in the future.”

"Thanks," Iseul replied, smiling. "But what about you? Why do you always come here to eat ramyeon? Is it really just for the food?"

Junseo leaned on the counter, a playful glint in his eyes. "Well, I initially came for the ramyeon, but now I think I keep coming back for the company."

Iseul blushed slightly, brushing off his comment with a shy smile. "You’re quite the charmer, aren’t you?"

Junseo chuckled. "Only when I have a good reason to be."

There was something in their routine, a sense of comfort that made his evenings more enjoyable. Every night, he found himself looking forward to their small interactions, the thrill of seeing her and learning more about her adding a spark to his day.

As Junseo finished his meal and stood to leave, he glanced back at her. "Goodnight, Iseul."

Junseo found himself lingering a little longer each night. The rest of his day felt lighter, more bearable, because of these moments. He didn’t need to share everything about his life or his struggles; it was enough to sit across from someone who seemed to understand him without words.