Echoes in the forest | Minsung

Light in life

Chan walked across the university campus, a faint spring breeze rustling through the trees and scattering leaves at his feet. The academic year had picked up pace, and he was immersed in his studies, trying to navigate life without Felix's constant presence. It had been six months since the tragedy, and while the pain was still there, Chan felt like he was finally starting to let go.

As he rounded a corner near the campus café, his attention was drawn to a figure standing at the entrance, engrossed in their phone. Chan glanced away but then did a double-take. The figure was strikingly familiar, with a mop of dark hair and a stylishly casual outfit. Curiosity tugged at him, and he approached the café.

The person looked up from their phone and glanced at Chan. Their eyes locked for a brief moment before the stranger's gaze shifted to a nearby table. Chan couldn't help but notice the kindness and warmth in the stranger's eyes. There was something about him that seemed to resonate with Chan, even if he couldn't quite place it.

Chan hesitated for a moment before gathering the courage to speak. "Hey, do you mind if I join you?" he asked, his voice friendly but laced with a hint of nervousness.

The stranger looked up, his face breaking into a warm, welcoming smile. "Sure, feel free. I'm I.N., by the way," he said, extending a hand.

"Chan," he replied, shaking I.N.'s hand. "Nice to meet you."

They settled into their seats, the clatter of cups and the murmur of conversations around them creating a cozy backdrop. Chan glanced at I.N., who was now sitting across from him, seemingly relaxed and at ease.

"So, what brings you to this part of the campus?" Chan asked, trying to make conversation.

I.N. chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I'm actually a new student here. Just started this semester. I thought I'd explore the café and see what it's like. How about you?"

Chan smiled. "I'm a senior here. I've been coming to this café for a while now. It's one of my favorite spots to unwind."

Their conversation flowed easily, with I.N. sharing stories about his previous school and his transition to university life. Chan found himself laughing more than he had in months, the genuine connection he felt with I.N. surprisingly comforting.

"So, what's your major?" I.N. asked, his interest piqued.

"Music," Chan responded. "I'm hoping to work in JYP once I graduate. What about you?"

"Business," I.N. said. "I've always been interested in management and entrepreneurship. We might have different majors, but I guess we both want to help people in our own ways."

Their conversation continued to flow effortlessly, and Chan felt a lightness he hadn't experienced in a long time. He was enjoying I.N.'s company more than he had expected.

As they sipped their coffee and chatted about their interests and dreams, Chan found himself feeling increasingly comfortable. I.N.'s presence seemed to bring a sense of normalcy and joy that had been missing from Chan's life for a while. It was refreshing to connect with someone who was genuinely kind and interested in getting to know him.

Before long, they realized that they had been talking for hours. The café was starting to wind down, and the staff began preparing to close. Chan glanced at his watch and then back at I.N., who seemed to be enjoying their time together as much as he was.

"It looks like we've stayed here quite a while," Chan remarked with a chuckle. "I guess time flies when you're having fun."

I.N. laughed, a soft, melodic sound that made Chan's heart skip a beat. "Yeah, it definitely does. I've really enjoyed our conversation, Chan."

"Me too," Chan said, his smile widening. "It's been nice to talk to someone who understands and makes me feel... well, better."

I.N.'s eyes softened, and he reached across the table, his hand brushing lightly against Chan's. "You know, I'm really glad we bumped into each other today. I feel like I've met a really great person."

Chan felt a warmth spread through him, his gaze lingering on I.N.'s face. The connection between them was undeniable, and for the first time in months, Chan felt a glimmer of hope and happiness.

As they stood up to leave, I.N. turned to Chan with a shy but hopeful smile. "Would you like to meet up again sometime? Maybe we could explore more of the campus or try out another café."

Chan's heart soared at the invitation. "I'd like that," he said, his voice filled with genuine warmth. "Let's definitely make plans."

They exchanged numbers, and Chan couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement as they said their goodbyes. As he walked away from the café, he glanced back and saw I.N. waving with a cheerful grin.

The day had been a turning point for Chan. While the memories of Felix would always be a part of him, he had finally started to see the possibility of moving forward. Meeting I.N. had been a breath of fresh air, and Chan was grateful for the unexpected encounter that had brought him a renewed sense of hope and joy.

The end

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