chapter 20 "Date"

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Despite not reaching the bank's deadline yet, our book sales are steadily increasing. I had high hopes for its success, but I never anticipated that it would exceed the required amount to cover Hanni's bank loan interest. What's even better is that we can now also make a significant dent in paying off the principal amount of her bank loan.

"Minji! I can't believe we did it. I will never tire of expressing my gratitude for what you've done," she exclaimed, her eyes welling up with tears of joy.

Hanni, as tears of joy filled my eyes, I held her hand and spoke from the depths of my heart. "No, Hanni, it is your success, and I am overjoyed to be a part of it. Being your co-author is an absolute pleasure because you are such an incredible writer. I wholeheartedly believe in you. This our success, my baby!"

"Minji, we should celebrate! I will cook your favorite food," she said to me with an excited sparkle in her eyes. Her culinary skills were unmatched, and every dish she prepared tasted like a masterpiece crafted by the greatest chef in the history of restaurants.

"Are you asking me out on a date?" I quipped, playfully teasing her with a smile.

"We will celebrate the success of our book," she said to me, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "And we will also have a romantic date," she added, a mischievous smile playing on her lips, giving her a seductive charm.

Her words sent a wave of surprise and anticipation through me, causing butterflies to flutter in my stomach. I never expected to see this bold and confident side of Hanni. I couldn't help but giggle at the unexpected turn of events, and the feeling was absolutely delightful.

We spent a delightful evening in the comfort of our own home, where Hanni prepared a magnificent feast for our date. It's amusing how we were reluctant to venture beyond the confines of our building unless absolutely necessary or for an essential errand, which was a rare occurrence. The thought of leaving the building felt like tearing ourselves away from a part of us, making us feel confined and uneasy amidst the clamor of the city and the sight of people hustling about like automatons, trying to keep up with the frenetic pace of the outside world. Meanwhile, Hanni and I reveled in our own little world, savoring each moment at our own leisurely pace, and most importantly, reveling in the joy and love we shared.

The atmosphere on this particular date feels entirely distinct from any of my previous experiences. As we relax in the comfort of our kitchen, wearing oversized, cozy hoodies, I can't help but feel fortunate that Hanni shares my love for such comfortable attire. The hoodie she gave me fits perfectly, and I find myself wearing it every day. It's not just the comfort that I love about it; it's also the fact that it was a gift from the woman I adore. When I wear her clothes, it feels as though she's right there with me, and that brings me a sense of warmth and closeness.

The evening meal was a delightful experience, brimming with joy and laughter. It was truly remarkable how we found ourselves lacking nothing, as we engaged in lively discussions and shared stories. We discovered numerous common interests and felt a deep sense of compatibility with each other. 

After enjoying a delicious dinner, we made ourselves comfortable in our living room to watch a movie. As I settled onto the sofa, she rested her head gently on my lap. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation, knowing that a classic romantic movie was about to begin. Throughout the film, her infectious laughter filled the room whenever a heartwarming romantic scene unfolded on the screen.

The soft glow of the TV screen pales in comparison to the radiant beauty of the woman I hold dear. My heart swells with love for her as I tenderly run my fingers through her long, lustrous hair. In that moment, it becomes clear to me that I must ask her to be mine officially, to put a label on our deep and meaningful connection.

"Hanni," I stammered, feeling a jumble of nerves and fluttering butterflies in my stomach. "I was thinking if we could elevate our relationship to the next level."

She rose from her position on the sofa and moved closer to me, gazing into my eyes with a look of confusion in response to my words. Without uttering a single word, she remained silent, prompting me to continue speaking.

"I want you to be my girlfriend. I know you might be confused because it has only been less than a month since we met, but believe me, Hanni, I fell in love with you from the moment I saw you. I think it was destiny that brought me here to your place. I can't help but feel that I will never love someone as strongly as I am feeling with you right now. This feeling is so intense, so strong that I want to be a part of your world forever, and I want you to be a part of mine." I said to her without a single pause. I wanted her to know, and if I didn't tell her now, I felt that my heart would burst at any moment. I paused, holding my breath, waiting for her response.

She stood there in silence, embracing me tightly as tears streamed down her cheeks. "Why are you asking now?" she sobbed. "I thought we became girlfriends the first time we kissed."

Her response filled me with overwhelming joy and happiness. "Are we a couple now? Are we officially girlfriends?" I asked her, needing confirmation and to hear it from her directly.

"I love you, Minji," she said, planting a gentle kiss on my lips.

"I love you more, Hanni," I replied, returning the kiss to her.

"Thank you for allowing me to be part of this world. Ever since I've been here, everything from my previous world turns immediately into full happiness. I can't explain the feeling, but everything here is magnificent, especially when I am with you," I said to her.

“Minji, this world is yours. ready to grant your every desire. Every thought and feeling you have will materialize,” she replied.

I am a bit confused by her response, but it doesn't matter. What matters is the overwhelming joy we both feel.

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