Always Seven // Xdinary Heroes 7th Member

ׂ╰┈➤ part 36.

I.

The day passed by in a blur for the members, their busy schedules filled with vocal training sessions, instrument classes, and various other preparations. Each one of them tackled their tasks with a mix of determination and excitement, knowing that every moment brought them closer to their debut. 

By the afternoon, the weariness began to set in, but they pressed on, driven by their dreams. Jooyeon and Minhee, having just finished their intense bass training session with their teacher, decided to reward themselves with a visit to their favorite local restaurant. It was a cozy spot they often frequented, known for its delicious fried dumplings and spicy tteokbokki. 

The thought of the savory food made Minhee's stomach growl, and she exchanged a knowing glance with Jooyeon. "Ready for some tteokbokki?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with anticipation. Jooyeon grinned, linking his arm with hers as they headed out. 

As they walked, they chatted about the day's events and the assignments they had received from their trainers. The streets were alive with the evening bustle, the warm glow of shop lights illuminating their path. "I can't believe how much we have to practice for that new song," 

Jooyeon remarked, his tone a mix of excitement and exhaustion. Minhee nodded, her mind still buzzing with the notes and rhythms they had been working on. "Yeah, but it's going to be worth it. Just imagine how amazing it'll be once we nail it." They continued discussing their training, their voices blending with the sounds of the city. 

The camaraderie between them was evident, their shared passion and dedication creating a bond that was as strong as any family. When they arrived at the restaurant, the familiar scent of frying dumplings and simmering tteokbokki greeted them. The owner, whom they affectionately called "Auntie," immediately spotted them. 

Her face broke into a wide smile as she hurried over to greet them, wrapping them both in a warm embrace. "My favorite customers!" she exclaimed, her eyes twinkling with delight. "How have you been? Busy with your training, I bet." 

Jooyeon and Minhee returned her hug, feeling a sense of homecoming. "Yes, Auntie. It's been hectic, but we're surviving," Minhee said, laughing. They placed their order, choosing a variety of fried dumplings and several servings of tteokbokki. 

II.

As they waited, they perched on the stools near the counter, watching as Auntie skillfully prepared their meal. Auntie worked with practiced ease, her hands moving quickly as she fried the dumplings to a perfect golden brown and simmered the tteokbokki in a rich, spicy sauce. Minhee and Jooyeon chatted while they waited, their conversation flowing effortlessly. 

"I think today was one of the toughest sessions we've had," Jooyeon mused, his fingers drumming lightly on the counter. Minhee nodded in agreement. "Definitely. But I feel like we're improving so much. Our hard work is really paying off."

Auntie listened with a fond smile as she worked, occasionally chiming in with words of encouragement. "You both are doing wonderfully. Just remember to take care of yourselves and eat well," she said, her voice full of warmth. 

After a few minutes, Auntie returned with two large paper bags filled with their order. The enticing aroma made their mouths water, and they could hardly wait to dig in. "Here you go, my dears. Enjoy your meal," she said, handing them the bags with a beaming smile. 

Minhee and Jooyeon thanked her profusely, their gratitude evident in their voices. "You're the best, Auntie. We'll see you again soon," Jooyeon said, waving as they made their way to the door. Auntie waved back, her smile lingering long after they had left.