Unlikely Love (YEONJUN)

17: Winter Break Reflection

With final exams behind them, the campus emptied as students left for winter break. Grace and Yeonjun shared a bittersweet farewell, both looking forward to time with their families but also aware they'd miss their study sessions and growing bond.

Grace returned home, welcomed warmly by her family. The familiar sights and sounds of home brought comfort, but her thoughts often drifted to Yeonjun. She found herself checking her phone more frequently, hoping for a message from him.

One snowy afternoon, as Grace sat by the window with a book, her phone buzzed with a message. It was from Yeonjun.

Yeonjun: Hey, Grace! How's the break going?

A smile spread across Grace's face as she quickly typed a response.

Grace: Hey, Yeonjun! It's good, relaxing with family. How about you?

Yeonjun: Same here. It's nice to be home, but I miss campus a bit.

Grace: Me too. It feels weird not having study sessions with you.

Yeonjun: Yeah, it does. But hey, we'll be back soon enough. Got any plans for the break?

Grace: Just spending time with family, maybe some holiday baking. You?

Yeonjun: Pretty much the same. Trying to enjoy the downtime before we dive back into school stuff.

Their conversation flowed easily, and they talked about their holiday traditions, favorite winter activities, and plans for the new semester. Grace felt a warmth spread through her, grateful for the connection they had even when miles apart.

The days of the break passed quickly, filled with family gatherings, holiday festivities, and moments of reflection. Grace cherished the time with her family, but her thoughts often returned to Yeonjun. She found herself looking forward to their return to campus and the continuation of their friendship.

On New Year's Eve, Grace's family hosted a small gathering. As midnight approached, Grace stood outside, watching the snow fall gently. Her phone buzzed with a message, and she smiled, knowing it was from Yeonjun.

Yeonjun: Happy New Year, Grace! 🎉

Grace: Happy New Year, Yeonjun! 🎆

Yeonjun: Any New Year's resolutions?

Grace: Hmm, maybe to stress less and enjoy the little things more. You?

Yeonjun: Sounds good! Mine's to be more present and appreciate the people in my life.

Grace felt her heart flutter at his words. She typed a response, her fingers slightly trembling from the cold.

Grace: That's a great resolution, Yeonjun.

Yeonjun: Thanks. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon.

Grace: Me too. Have a great night, Yeonjun.

Yeonjun: You too, Grace.

As she put her phone away, Grace felt a sense of anticipation for the new year and what it might bring for her and Yeonjun.

The break came to an end, and the campus buzzed with activity as students returned. Grace felt a mix of excitement and nerves as she unpacked her things and settled back into her dorm. She was eager to see Yeonjun again and resume their study sessions.

On the first day of the new semester, Grace and Yeonjun met at their usual spot in the library. Yeonjun greeted her with a warm smile, and Grace felt her heart lift at the sight of him.

"Hey, Grace! How was the rest of your break?" Yeonjun asked as they sat down.

"It was good, relaxing," Grace replied, smiling back. "How about yours?"

"Pretty good. I'm glad to be back, though," Yeonjun said, his eyes shining with excitement.

They settled into their study routine, but there was an underlying sense of ease and familiarity that hadn't been there before. Grace noticed how their hands would occasionally brush as they reached for their notes, and how Yeonjun's smile seemed a bit brighter when he looked at her.

One afternoon, as they were taking a break from studying, Yeonjun suggested, "Want to grab some lunch? There's a new café on campus I've been wanting to try."

Grace agreed, and they made their way to the café, enjoying the fresh winter air. The café was cozy and inviting, with warm lighting and a comforting aroma of coffee and baked goods. They found a table by the window and ordered their food.

As they waited for their order, Yeonjun leaned back in his chair, looking relaxed. "You know, I've been thinking about our New Year's resolutions."

Grace tilted her head, curious. "Oh? What about them?"

"Well, I think we should help each other with them," Yeonjun said with a grin. "You can remind me to be present, and I'll remind you to enjoy the little things."

Grace smiled, feeling a sense of warmth. "I'd like that, Yeonjun. Deal."

They spent the lunch chatting about their classes and upcoming projects, the conversation flowing easily. Grace felt a deep sense of contentment, grateful for Yeonjun's friendship and the special connection they shared.

As they walked back to the library, their shoulders brushed, and Grace felt a spark of electricity at the contact. She glanced at Yeonjun, who seemed to feel it too, his eyes meeting hers with a soft smile.

The new semester had just begun, but Grace felt optimistic about the future. With Yeonjun by her side, she knew they could face whatever challenges came their way.