[2024] SeolBo - Compilation of Short Stories

First Steps Under the Stars (2)

Hyunjung sat on her bed, her phone clutched in her hand, staring at Jiyeon's number on the screen. She had been thinking about calling Jiyeon for days, but every time she pressed the number, nerves got the best of her. Her heart pounded, and she kept overthinking every possible scenario.

"Come on, just do it!" she muttered to herself, trying to muster the courage.

Taking a deep breath, she pressed the number, her thumb hovering over the call button for what felt like an eternity. Finally, she made a bold move and pressed call. The phone rang, and Hyunjung's heart raced even faster.

"Hello?" Jiyeon answered, not recognizing the number.

Hyunjung swallowed hard. "Hi, Jiyeon. It's Hyunjung...from the festival."

There was a brief pause, then Jiyeon's voice turned warm and playful. "Hyunjung! I've been waiting for your call. How are you?"

Hyunjung felt her cheeks heat up. "I'm good, thanks. How about you?"

"I'm great," Jiyeon replied. "What's up?"

"Well," Hyunjung began, her voice trembling slightly, "I was wondering if you'd like to hang out this weekend?"

Jiyeon's smile could be heard through the phone. "I'd love to. Any ideas?"

"How about we grab some coffee and take a walk in the park?" Hyunjung suggested, feeling a bit more confident.

"Sounds perfect," Jiyeon agreed. "When and where?"

"Saturday afternoon, at the coffee shop near campus?"

"Great. I'll see you then."

The weekend arrived, and Hyunjung stood outside the coffee shop, nervously checking her watch. She looked up to see Jiyeon approaching, her bright smile making Hyunjung's heart skip a beat.

"Hi, Jiyeon," Hyunjung greeted, trying to keep her composure.

"Hey, Hyunjung," Jiyeon replied, her eyes were twinkling.

They ordered their coffee and began to walk through the park, chatting about their clubs and classes. Jiyeon talked animatedly about her dance routines, while Hyunjung shared stories about her band and their performances.

"So, how long have you been dancing?" Hyunjung asked, genuinely curious.

"Since I was a kid," Jiyeon replied. "It's always been my passion. What about you? How long have you been singing?"

"Pretty much my whole life," Hyunjung said with a shy smile. "It's my way of expressing myself."

"You're really talented," Jiyeon said sincerely. "I was blown away by your performance at the festival."

"Thanks," Hyunjung replied, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "I couldn't take my eyes off you when you were dancing."

Jiyeon laughed, nudging Hyunjung playfully. "Really? I didn't think anyone noticed me with all the amazing acts."

"Trust me, you were hard to miss," Hyunjung said, her voice soft and genuine.

"You know, Sojung keeps teasing me about you," She admitted with a shy smile.

"Oh, really?" Jiyeon said, raising an eyebrow. "What does she say?"

Hyunjung chuckled. "She says I should stop being so nervous and just enjoy myself."

"She's right," Jiyeon said, nudging Hyunjung playfully. "You should relax. I don't bite...much."

Hyunjung laughed, feeling more at ease. "I'll try my best."