VINTAGE MELODIES

The Last Note

As their relationship deepened, Minji couldn't help but notice how much Hanni had become a part of her everyday life. Whether it was their playful banter at school or their late-night texts about music recommendations, Hanni's presence had woven itself into Minji's once-solitary routine.

But Minji wasn't the only one with a growing awareness. Hanni, too, had started seeing Minji in a new light—not just as her seatmate or her secret crush-turned-confession, but as someone who truly understood her, who made her feel seen. And the more they spent time together, the more she realized how much she cherished Minji's quiet strength and thoughtful nature.

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**One lazy afternoon, after school...**

Hanni and Minji found themselves in Minji's room. It was the first time Hanni had been there, and she was delighted by how cozy and organized it was. Rows of books lined the shelves, and posters of classic rock bands adorned the walls. In the corner, a vintage record player stood next to a neat stack of vinyls.

"This place is *so* you," Hanni said with a grin as she flopped onto Minji's bed. "Minimalist, but secretly cool."

Minji smirked, setting down two glasses of iced tea on the small table. "And your room is what? Maximalist chaos?"

"Exactly," Hanni replied, winking. She reached for the stack of vinyls and began flipping through them. "Wow, your collection is incredible. Oh! You've got Fleetwood Mac? And The Smiths?"

"Of course," Minji said, sitting beside her. "Those are essentials."

Hanni looked at her, impressed. "I don't know how you do it. It's like you have perfect taste in everything."

Minji chuckled softly. "I think you're exaggerating. But thanks."

As Hanni continued exploring, she noticed a guitar propped up against the wall. "Wait, you play?" she asked, her eyes lighting up.

"A little," Minji admitted, brushing her hair back. "It's more of a hobby."

"Can you play something for me?" Hanni asked eagerly, sitting up straight.

Minji hesitated, feeling a bit shy. But the excitement in Hanni's eyes was hard to resist. She picked up the guitar, adjusting the strings before strumming a gentle melody. The notes were soft and melodic, filling the room with warmth.

Hanni listened, completely captivated. "You're amazing," she whispered when Minji finished.

Minji set the guitar down, her cheeks faintly pink. "Thanks. It's nothing fancy."

"Are you kidding?" Hanni said, leaning closer. "That was beautiful. You're full of surprises, Minji."

Minji glanced at her, feeling a spark of courage. "You inspire me, you know. That's why it's easy to play when you're around."

Hanni blinked, caught off guard by the sincerity in Minji's voice. Her heart raced as a smile slowly spread across her face. "Minji... you're going to make me fall even harder for you."

Minji chuckled softly. "Good."

---

**That evening...**

As Hanni prepared to leave, Minji walked her to the door. The air between them felt charged, as if something unspoken lingered just beneath the surface.

"Thanks for letting me invade your space," Hanni said with a grin. "I promise I won't steal all your vinyls."

Minji smiled. "You're welcome anytime."

They stood there for a moment, neither wanting to say goodbye just yet. Finally, Hanni took a step closer, her expression turning serious.

"Minji... I've never felt like this about anyone before," she admitted. "You make me feel so safe, but also... so alive."

Minji's breath hitched, her heart pounding. "Hanni..."

Before she could finish, Hanni leaned in and kissed her—a soft, lingering kiss that seemed to stop time. It wasn't their first kiss, but it felt deeper, more certain. When they finally pulled apart, Hanni rested her forehead against Minji's, smiling.

"I really, really like you," Hanni whispered.

Minji smiled back, her voice steady. "I really like you too."

As Hanni walked away, her heart felt light, like she was floating. And Minji, standing at her door, watched her go with a quiet smile, knowing that this was only the beginning of something beautiful.