3: Familiar Stranger

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I woke up to the soft light filtering through the curtains and the distant hum of the city coming to life. Excitement bubbled up as I realized I was in Seoul, ready to explore more of the city. My stomach grumbled, reminding me I hadn't stocked up on groceries yet. A café breakfast sounded perfect.

After getting ready, I searched the internet for nearby café recommendations. One place stood out with rave reviews about its delicious pastries and cozy atmosphere. I decided to give it a try. I grabbed my phone and earbuds, popped on some Enhypen music, and headed out the door. Walking through the streets of Seoul, with Enhypen's melodies in my ears, I couldn't help but smile. It was sinking in—I was really here.

The café was quaint and inviting, with a warm interior and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air. I approached the counter and placed my order: a cappuccino and a slice of strawberry shortcake. As I reached for my wallet to pay, a wave of panic washed over me. My wallet wasn't there. I had left it back at the apartment.

Flustered and embarrassed, I stammered an apology to the barista. In that moment, I wished the ground would swallow me up. Suddenly, a figure approached the counter to collect his order. He was wearing a mask and a hoodie pulled over his head, making it hard to see his face clearly. He seemed to quickly grasp the situation and asked the barista what was happening. My cheeks burned as the barista explained my predicament.

Before I could insist on running back to get my wallet, the stranger handed his card to the barista and paid for my order. I stood there, stunned and grateful, yet deeply embarrassed. He turned towards me, and even though his mask covered most of his face, his eyes crinkled in a smile.

"Thank you so much," I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'm really sorry for the trouble."

He waved it off as if it were nothing. "Don't worry about it. Enjoy your breakfast." His voice was warm and reassuring, putting me at ease despite my earlier panic.

I stood there, holding my tray, feeling a mix of gratitude and curiosity. "Can I at least buy you a coffee to repay you?" I asked, hoping to show my appreciation somehow.

He shook his head, his eyes still smiling. "Really, it's fine. Just enjoy your time."

I hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Thank you again," I said sincerely, turning to find a seat by the window. My heart was still racing from the unexpected encounter as I sipped my cappuccino and savored the strawberry shortcake. The sweet treat and the rich coffee seemed even more delicious after the kindness I had just experienced.

As I glanced around the café, I couldn't help but keep an eye on the stranger who had helped me. He had taken a seat in a quiet corner, his attention focused on his phone. There was something oddly familiar about him, but I couldn't quite place it. I watched him for a few moments, trying to figure out where I might have seen him before.

The more I observed, the more intrigued I became. Despite his casual attire and the mask covering his face, there was an air of familiarity that I couldn't shake. I pondered whether he was someone I had seen online or perhaps a person I'd come across in my research about Seoul and its vibrant culture.

As I finished my meal, I felt a mix of gratitude and curiosity. I wanted to know more about this kind stranger who had come to my rescue.


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