Enchanted (Bbangsaz)

39

Minji hummed softly as she folded a napkin into a perfect triangle, placing it neatly on the last plate. "That's the last one," she announced, stepping back to admire their work. The table was set with a simple but elegant arrangement—white porcelain plates, matching silverware, and a vase of fresh flowers in the center.

Hanni stood nearby, clutching a handful of cutlery with a slightly panicked look on her face. "Are you sure this is enough? What if they don't like me? What if I say something dumb? What if Jennie hates me?" She rattled off her worries so fast it was like she hadn't taken a breath.

Minji turned toward her, resting her hands on her hips. "Hanni," she said gently, her tone laced with amusement. "My mom and Jennie aren't some kind of scary panel of judges. Yeah, Jennie's a little scary but she's like a Chihuahua. Whatever, you're just meeting them, not auditioning for a drama."

Hanni glared at her, pointing a fork in her direction. "That's easy for you to say! You're their perfect little Minji—future some stupid award-winning actress, flawless daughter and silly sister, and all-around golden child. Me? I'm just the girl who sings corny songs and trips over air!"

Minji burst out laughing, unable to hold it in. She crossed the room, plucked the fork from Hanni's hand, and set it down on the table. "First of all, you're not just anything. You're Pham Hanni—the coolest, most talented, and most beautiful girl in the world. And second..." Minji placed her hands on Hanni's shoulders, squeezing them lightly. "Relax. They're going to love you because I love you. And my mom and Jennie? They want me to be happy. You make me happy."

Hanni let out a long, exaggerated groan, leaning her forehead against Minji's shoulder. "Why are you so good at this? It's not fair."

Minji grinned, wrapping her arms around Hanni in a quick hug. "It's a talent," she teased, pulling back. "Now help me light the candles before they get here."

As Hanni grabbed a lighter from the counter, she muttered, "If Jennie doesn't grill me tonight, I'll believe you."

"Oh, she'll grill you," Minji said cheerfully, adjusting the vase on the table. "But you'll survive. Barely."

Hanni froze mid-strike of the lighter and shot Minji a horrified look. "Not helping!"

Minji laughed, stealing a quick kiss before heading to the door at the sound of the doorbell. "Showtime," she whispered, winking at Hanni before opening the door.

Hanni stepped into the warm, modern dining room, her gaze flickering nervously toward Minji's family. Mama Kim greeted her with a polite, welcoming smile, but it was Jennie who immediately caught Hanni's attention.

Sitting at the head of the table, Jennie exuded a quiet confidence that seemed effortless. Her sharp eyes, perfectly styled hair, and subtle but striking makeup made her look like she'd just stepped off a magazine cover. Jennie smiled, but it was the kind of smile that said, I'm watching you.

"Ah, you must be Hanni," Mama Kim said, stepping forward and offering her hand. Her tone was warm but calm, a reflection of Minji's easygoing nature.

"Yes, ma'am. It's nice to meet you," Hanni said quickly, bowing slightly as she shook her hand.

Jennie rose from her seat gracefully, her gaze sharp but not unfriendly. "I'm Jennie. Minji's sister. I've heard so much about you."

"Good things, I hope," Hanni said nervously, trying to match Jennie's energy.

Jennie tilted her head slightly, her smile turning almost playful. "Mostly good."

Minji rolled her eyes and gently nudged Jennie's arm. "Be nice," she muttered.