VINTAGE MELODIES

Coldplay

A week after Minji's unforgettable talent show performance, her birthday had finally arrived. Hanni had been planning a surprise for days, working hard to make this night perfect for Minji. She knew Minji had no idea what was waiting for her.

Since Minji would be at her shift at the vintage CD store until evening, Hanni went straight to Minji's house after school to set up. She started by carefully stringing fairy lights across the ceiling of Minji's room, giving it a soft, dreamlike glow. In one corner, she set up a projector to stream a cozy movie night on Netflix, with stacks of pillows and blankets for them to cuddle up in. On the bed, Hanni placed bowls of popcorn, their favorite snacks, and sodas. And on the dresser, she'd set up the highlight of the night: a limited edition Coldplay concert recording, a gift she knew Minji would adore.

As the clock approached 8 p.m., Hanni finished the final touches and waited, anticipation fluttering in her chest. When she finally heard footsteps outside the door, she quickly dimmed the lights and grabbed the party popper, grinning to herself.

The door creaked open, and Minji stepped in, looking exhausted but with a hint of curiosity in her eyes. Suddenly, Hanni pulled the string on the popper, and confetti burst into the air as she shouted, "Happy Birthday, Minji!"

Minji's eyes widened in shock, her face lighting up as she took in the sight of her decorated room, the soft glow of the fairy lights, and Hanni standing there with a beaming smile. For a moment, she was speechless.

"Hanni..." she whispered, clearly overwhelmed. "Did you do all of this?"

Hanni nodded, her smile softening. "Of course. You deserve it."

Unable to contain her gratitude, Minji pulled Hanni into a warm hug and kissed her, feeling the joy and love behind every detail. They settled down on the bed, sharing popcorn and laughing together as they watched some movies

When it came time to exchange gifts, Hanni handed Minji a small, carefully wrapped box. Minji opened it with trembling hands, and her eyes filled with tears when she saw the Coldplay Concert. She had been searching for it for months, and Hanni had remembered.

"Thank you, Hanni," Minji said, her voice catching. "This means so much to me. You...you mean so much to me."

The two held each other close, savoring the warmth of the moment and the love they shared. It was a night of laughter, tenderness, and quiet moments, just the two of them in their own world, celebrating the bond they had come to cherish. In each other's arms, they found not only joy but the comfort of being truly known and loved.