Chapter 1: An Unexpected Encounter
It was a typical rainy afternoon at the small café where I worked, tucked away on a quiet street corner. The air was filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the soft murmur of conversations. I wiped down the counters, glancing occasionally at the clock, eager for my shift to end.
Today was a bit different, though. It had been unusually busy, and a steady stream of customers had kept me on my toes. As I served the last few patrons of the day, a familiar figure caught my eye. It was Ni-ki from ENHYPEN, the renowned K-pop idol. Even at just 18, his presence was magnetic, and he seemed almost out of place in our humble café. He had been here a few times before, often choosing a secluded corner where he could enjoy his coffee in peace.
Ni-ki's visits were always understated, and he seemed to appreciate the anonymity our little café provided. Today, however, I noticed him watching me more than usual. Every time I glanced his way, he was looking in my direction, a thoughtful expression on his face.
As my shift came to an end, I gathered my things, bracing myself for the downpour outside. The rain had been relentless all afternoon, and I dreaded the thought of trying to hail a taxi in such weather. Standing under the awning, I watched the sheets of rain cascading down, my hopes of staying dry quickly diminishing.
Just then, Ni-ki approached, holding a large black umbrella. His steps were quick and purposeful, and before I could react, he was standing next to me.
"You look like you could use this," he said, his voice soft yet clear above the rain's steady drumming.
I blinked in surprise, taken aback by his gesture. "Oh, thank you, but I can't take your umbrella. You need it too."
He shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. "I have another one in my car. Besides, I don't want you to get soaked while waiting for a taxi."
I hesitated for a moment before accepting the umbrella. "Thank you, Ni-ki. That's really kind of you."
"Not a problem," he replied, his smile widening. "Do you need a ride home? I can give you a lift."
My heart skipped a beat at his offer. It was tempting, but I didn't want to impose. "I don't want to trouble you. I'm sure you're busy."
He laughed lightly, a sound that somehow managed to be both gentle and infectious. "It's no trouble at all. I finished my schedule for the day. Come on, my car's just around the corner."
Relenting, I nodded and followed him through the rain. His umbrella provided a cozy shield from the downpour, and I couldn't help but feel a strange sense of comfort walking beside him. As we reached his car, he quickly unlocked it and opened the passenger door for me.
"Thank you again," I said as I slid into the seat, appreciating the warmth and dryness of the interior.
Ni-ki walked around to the driver's side and got in, shaking off the droplets that clung to his jacket. "Where to?" he asked, turning to me with a friendly grin.
I gave him my address, and we set off. The ride was quiet at first, the sound of the rain against the car windows filling the silence. After a few moments, Ni-ki broke the ice.
"So, how long have you been working at the café?" he asked, glancing over at me.
"About six months," I replied. "It's a nice place. I enjoy it."
He nodded thoughtfully. "I like it too. It's peaceful there, a nice escape from the chaos."
I smiled, understanding what he meant. "I can imagine. It must be pretty overwhelming sometimes, being in the spotlight all the time."
He sighed softly, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. "Yeah, it can be. But moments like this make it worth it."
We chatted for the rest of the drive, finding an easy rhythm in our conversation. By the time we arrived at my apartment, it felt like I had known him for much longer than just a few brief encounters at the café.
"Thanks for the ride, Ni-ki," I said as I unbuckled my seatbelt.
"Anytime," he replied, his smile warm and genuine. "And keep the umbrella. Consider it a gift."
I nodded, touched by his kindness. "I will. Thanks again."
As I stepped out of the car, the rain had finally started to let up. I waved goodbye and watched as he drove away, feeling a strange mix of excitement and disbelief. Meeting Ni-ki had been unexpected, but something about our encounter felt almost... serendipitous.
I headed inside, clutching the umbrella tightly, a smile tugging at my lips. Little did I know, this rainy afternoon would be the beginning of something far more extraordinary than I could have ever imagined...
