Part 1

The day was calm, the sun high in the sky, casting a warm, golden light across the peaceful neighborhood. It was spring, and the air was filled with the delicate scent of blossoms from the nearby cherry trees. Their pink petals fluttered down lazily in the gentle breeze, creating a soft blanket along the cobblestone sidewalks. Birds chirped overhead, and people strolled leisurely along the street, chatting quietly, their faces relaxed in the warmth of the morning.

The small shopping district bustled with quiet activity. A florist arranged colorful bouquets outside her shop, the fresh scent of flowers mixing with the earthy aroma of nearby bakeries. Customers drifted in and out of cozy cafés, and the soft hum of conversation floated on the air as they sipped their coffees and flipped through newspapers.

Among the shops lining the street was a quaint bookstore, its large glass windows inviting passersby to step inside. The wooden door was propped open, allowing the breeze to carry the faint scent of aged paper and ink into the street. The sound of a gentle bell tinkled as someone entered.

Inside, standing behind the counter with a shy, welcoming smile, was Longtai. He was dressed in a baggy black shirt that hung loosely over his slender frame, paired with navy pants that brushed the tops of his worn, comfortable shoes. His dark hair was short, with soft bangs that fell gently across his forehead, almost covering his almond-shaped eyes. His skin had a pale warmth to it, and his posture was relaxed yet reserved, giving off an air of quietness.

Longtai had always been shy, preferring the solitude of the bookstore to the noisy outside world. His almond eyes often flickered up to meet customers' gazes briefly before he'd look away, but his smile was always genuine, even if a little reserved. The bookstore, with its shelves full of stories and silence, felt like a sanctuary to him.

As the bell above the door chimed, Longtai glanced up from the book he was leafing through behind the counter and saw a familiar figure-Mr. Lui, an elderly man who frequented the shop. He was stooped but strong, his thinning silver hair neatly combed back, and he wore an old brown cardigan over a simple shirt and trousers. His eyes, though framed by the deep creases of age, were sharp and bright, and he carried himself with the steady confidence of someone who had seen a lot of life. A warm smile stretched across his wrinkled face as he approached Longtai.

"Good morning, Longtai," Mr. Lui said in a deep, gravelly voice, his cane tapping lightly against the floor as he walked. "A beautiful day, isn't it?"

Longtai's smile widened a little, the shyness melting just a touch as he greeted the familiar customer. "Good morning, Mr. Liu," he replied softly. His voice was gentle, matching the calm atmosphere of the shop. "Yes, it really is. Spring always brings out the best in the city."

Mr. Lui chuckled as he approached the counter, setting his worn leather satchel down carefully. "I've always thought so. The cherry blossoms make everything look like a painting, don't they?"

Longtai nodded, leaning slightly against the counter as he spoke. "They really do. It's like the whole world slows down for a bit."

The older man's eyes sparkled with amusement as he looked at the young bookseller. "Ah, but you always seem to move at a slow pace, Longtai. That's a rare gift these days."

Longtai's shy smile returned, his bangs shifting slightly as he glanced down, almost bashful. "I suppose I've always liked the quiet."

There was a brief, comfortable pause as Mr. Lui gazed around the shop, inhaling deeply, as if he could smell the stories within the pages of the books lining the shelves.

"So, how did you like the book I recommended last week?" Longtai asked after a moment, his voice curious yet quiet.

Mr. Lui's face lit up at the mention. "Oh, The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, right? By Murakami?" He tapped his chin thoughtfully with one gnarled finger. "It was... intriguing. Complex, really. I found myself lost in it at times, but I mean that in the best way. Murakami's writing pulls you in, doesn't it? It's like walking through a dream."

Longtai's eyes sparkled with interest as he listened. He loved hearing Mr. Lui thoughts on books-they always had a depth to them. "I'm glad you enjoyed it," he said, his voice soft but warm. "Murakami can be... a bit surreal, but that's what I love about him. The way he blends the ordinary with the fantastical."

"Exactly," Mr. Lui agreed, his cane tapping the floor again as he shifted. "I haven't read anything quite like it. You know, there were moments when I felt like I was lost in my own memories while reading it. Strange, but comforting, in a way."

Longtai nodded, understanding. "That's what makes his books so unique. They're not just stories-they make you feel something deeper, something personal."

Mr. Lui smiled kindly at Longtai, appreciating the young man's quiet insight. "You always know just what to recommend," he said warmly. "I've been reading books for longer than you've been alive, but you've introduced me to so many new worlds."

Longtai felt a slight warmth rise to his cheeks at the compliment, his smile growing just a bit wider. "Thank you, Mr. Lui. I'm always happy to help. If you're looking for something new today, I think I have just the thing."

Mr. Lui's eyes twinkled with curiosity. "Oh? What do you have in mind?"

Longtai reached beneath the counter and pulled out a book he had set aside earlier. "This is Norwegian Wood, another one by Murakami," he explained, handing it over to the older man. "It's a little different from The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle-more grounded in reality, but just as moving. I think you'll enjoy it."

Mr. Lui took the book in his hands, turning it over thoughtfully. "I trust your judgment, Longtai. If you say it's worth reading, then I'll give it a go."

The two exchanged a few more words before Mr. Lui made his way toward the door, the bell tinkling as he left. Longtai watched him go, feeling a sense of quiet satisfaction. He loved moments like this-simple, peaceful, full of shared understanding over something as timeless as a good book.

With the bookstore bathed in soft light and the world outside bustling in its gentle, springtime way, Longtai returned to his place behind the counter, content in the serenity of his little corner of the world.

~

The breeze was cool and fragrant, carrying the scent of cherry blossoms down the peaceful street. The sun hung lazily in the sky, its golden rays filtering through the branches of trees lining the sidewalks. The streets were alive but calm, a few people walking by with quiet chatter, their voices blending into the rustling leaves. The hum of a few passing cars could be heard in the distance, but mostly, the neighborhood was serene, bathed in the soft warmth of spring.

Yok stood just outside a small café, inhaling the fresh air deeply before taking a slow drag from his cigarette. He stood tall, his broad shoulders relaxed, the fabric of his black shirt stretching slightly across his toned chest. His golden skin gleamed in the sunlight, muscles visible beneath his shirt. A black cap covered most of his dark hair, and he wore loose-fitting cargo pants that hung low on his hips. His rugged, laid-back appearance contrasted with the peaceful atmosphere of the street, yet he fit in just the same, like a quiet presence in the background.

The smoke curled up lazily from the end of his cigarette as he took another drag, savoring the stillness of the moment. He didn't often get a chance to enjoy these quiet mornings, but something about this day-the breeze, the warmth, the cherry blossoms fluttering by-made it feel peaceful.

Just as Yok was beginning to lose himself in the calm, a sharp tug pulled the cigarette from his lips. Startled, he turned his head to see a small, familiar hand snatching the cigarette away and tossing it straight into the nearby bin.

"How many times have I told you to stop smoking, Yok?" Emma's voice was both playful and exasperated.

Yok rolled his eyes, his lips curling into a half-smile as he shrugged. "Yeah, yeah, I know," he muttered, watching as Emma crossed her arms and gave him an unimpressed look. He couldn't help but feel a little amused by her persistence.

Emma stood just a few inches shorter than Yok, her petite frame made even more delicate next to his solid build. She was wearing a cute shirt with a soft purple cardigan, her brown, short wavy hair bouncing lightly as she moved. In one hand, she clutched several shopping bags, their colorful handles peeking out between her fingers. Despite her scolding, there was a warmth in her expression, a clear indication of their long-standing friendship.

"Seriously, Yok," she continued, her voice softening a bit, "it's bad for you. You should really stop."

Yok sighed and shrugged again, sliding his hands into his pockets. "I only smoke when I'm with you," he said with a grin. "Must be your fault."

Emma rolled her eyes but smiled at his teasing, swatting his arm lightly. "Don't blame me for your bad habits."

Yok chuckled, shaking his head. He looked down at the bags Emma was holding. "So, how much more shopping do you have to do? You're gonna need another set of arms if you keep going at this rate."

Emma glanced down at the bags and then back up at him, a playful glint in her eye. "Just one more stop. I promise."

Yok sighed dramatically, leaning back against the wall behind him. "You said that two stops ago," he muttered, sounding tired but still smiling. "I'm not your personal shopping assistant, you know."

Emma pouted, shifting the bags slightly. "Come on, Yok! I'll make it up to you." She grinned suddenly, a mischievous sparkle lighting up her eyes. "If you come with me to this last store, I'll treat you to meal. My treat. Whatever you want."

Yok's eyebrows rose at the offer, and he tilted his head, considering. "Anything I want?" he asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

"Anything," Emma confirmed, lifting one of the bags with a grin. "I'll even throw in dessert."

Yok pretended to think it over for a moment longer, rubbing his chin dramatically. "Fine," he said finally, pushing off the wall and stretching his arms over his head. "But if you take longer than fifteen minutes, I'm ordering the most expensive thing on the menu."

Emma laughed, knowing full well Yok wasn't serious. "Deal. Now come on, we need to go before that bookstore closes."

As they started walking down the street, Yok fell into step beside Emma, the two of them weaving through the small crowd. The air around them was light and easy, the kind of comfort that came from years of friendship. The neighborhood was still calm, with the occasional gust of wind carrying the soft rustle of cherry blossoms overhead.

"So, what are you buying this time?" Yok asked, his voice casual as they passed a row of small, local shops.

"A new notebook," Emma said, her voice excited. "I've been wanting one for my new class project, and I heard the bookstore down the street has some nice ones."

Yok glanced at her, a fond smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "You and your notebooks," he teased. "How many of those do you even have now? Fifty?"

"Seventy-two, actually," Emma replied with a playful wink.

Yok shook his head, laughing softly. "I'll never understand it."

They continued walking in comfortable silence for a few moments, the world around them peaceful and bright, the perfect spring day stretching out before them. The trees swayed gently in the breeze, casting dappled shadows across the pavement, and the sound of birds singing softly in the distance filled the air.

Yok inhaled deeply, enjoying the calm, even without the cigarette. There was something about being with Emma, about the way they could just exist together, that made everything feel right in the world.

As they approached the bookstore, the quiet chime of its bell ringing as the door opened, Yok glanced down at Emma again. "Fifteen minutes, remember," he reminded her with a smirk.

Emma laughed, already stepping through the door. "We'll see!" she called over her shoulder, disappearing inside.

Yok followed, feeling the peaceful atmosphere of the store settle over him like a warm blanket.

The bell above the bookstore door chimed softly as Emma and Yok stepped inside. The gentle hum of conversation and the rustle of pages filled the air, adding to the quiet serenity of the space. The bookstore was bathed in the warm glow of natural light filtering through its large windows, giving it an inviting and peaceful atmosphere. Shelves lined with books stretched from floor to ceiling, creating an intimate maze of knowledge and stories.

Behind the counter, Longtai greeted them with his usual, shy smile. His almond-shaped eyes flickered toward Emma first, who greeted him back with an excited wave before immediately diving into the aisles, clearly eager to start her search.

Longtai's appearance was as soft and understated as always-his dark bangs brushed neatly across his forehead, almost covering his eyes. He wore a loose-fitting black shirt that hung comfortably over his frame, paired with navy pants. His smile was small but genuine, his demeanor quiet and unassuming as he glanced up at Yok.

Yok, meanwhile, stood by the counter, glancing around the bookstore with casual interest. His tall, muscular frame stood out in contrast to the delicate atmosphere of the store, but he seemed comfortable nonetheless. He wore a black t-shirt that stretched over his toned chest, a cap pulled low over his dark hair, and baggy cargo pants that hung loosely on his hips. His golden skin glowed faintly under the soft lighting, adding to his rugged, confident appearance.

Longtai, noticing Yok standing near the counter, approached him with quiet steps. In a low, almost timid tone, he asked, "Do you need any help?"

Yok turned to face him, his expression relaxed but curious as he took in the sight of the quiet bookseller. For a moment, he didn't respond, slightly caught off guard by the soft voice, but then he shook his head. "No, I'm just waiting for my friend," he replied, his tone casual, his bright smile making the words seem almost playful.

Longtai nodded, his own shy smile returning. "Okay. If you'd like, there's a couch over there," he said, gesturing toward a cozy corner of the bookstore. "People often come here, take their time selecting books, and sometimes they sit there to read for a while."

Yok glanced at the couch, then back at Longtai, a small grin forming on his lips. "Thanks, but it'll just be a few minutes for her to finish up. I'm good."

"Alright," Longtai said quietly, his voice soft as he nodded again. He then stepped back toward the counter, returning to his work, leaving Yok to continue wandering the shop.

Yok turned away, his gaze drifting across the shelves, idly browsing without much interest in anything specific. The quiet atmosphere settled around him like a warm blanket, the soft light and the faint smell of books creating a comfortable, almost nostalgic feeling.

After a few moments, Yok's attention wandered back to the counter. There, he saw Longtai standing in the corner, arranging a stack of magazines neatly. Longtai was humming quietly to himself, a soft, almost melodic sound that was barely audible over the ambient noise of the store. His movements were careful, precise, and calm, as if he had done this a thousand times before.

A small smile appeared on Yok's face without him realizing it. There was something calming about watching Longtai go about his work-his quiet, unassuming presence made the bookstore feel even more peaceful.

Just then, Emma returned, clutching a notebook and a small stack of books in her arms. "Got what I needed!" she said cheerfully, her voice cutting through the quiet like a burst of energy.

Yok raised an eyebrow at the small pile of books. "You said you only needed a notebook," he teased, his tone light.

Emma shrugged, not at all ashamed. "I couldn't help it! The books here are too good to pass up. Plus," she added, her eyes lighting up, "they have old books that are hard to find anywhere else. Isn't that cool?"

Yok rolled his eyes playfully. "Yeah, sure. Super interesting," he muttered, though his voice was laced with affection. He clearly wasn't as invested in her enthusiasm for books as she was.

Emma made her way to the counter, placing her haul down in front of Longtai, who greeted her with his calm and shy smile. "These all for you?" he asked softly, his eyes glancing at the books as he began to scan them one by one.

"Yup!" Emma replied, still smiling. "But I have a question about one specific book. Do you have The Secret History by Donna Tartt?"

Longtai paused for a moment, his fingers hovering over the register as he thought. "I'm sorry, we don't have it in stock right now," he said, meeting Emma's gaze with an apologetic look. "Someone borrowed it, but it should be back in two days."

Emma's eyes lit up with excitement. "Two days? Perfect! I'll come back for it then."

Longtai nodded, offering her a small, understanding smile. "I'll set it aside for you when it returns."

Emma beamed. "Thanks! That'd be great."

After scanning the remaining books and giving Emma the total, Longtai watched as she gathered her items and placed them carefully into her bags. "Goodbye," he said softly, his tone polite and friendly as Emma waved at him.

"Bye! See you in two days," she called back as she turned to leave.

Before she stepped out, Longtai's eyes drifted to Yok, who was already looking at him. For a brief second, their gazes met, and Longtai gave him a nod and a small, polite smile-his usual employee smile, the kind that didn't reach his eyes but was still genuine in its own quiet way.

Yok, however, didn't react much. He simply held the gaze for a moment before turning and following Emma out of the store.

As the bell chimed once again, signaling their departure, Longtai returned to his place behind the counter, his thoughts already fading back into the familiar, comforting rhythm of the bookstore.

~

In the warmth of a bustling bookstore, Yok and Longtai meet for the first time, a spark of curiosity igniting between them. How will this chance encounter shape their lives? What truths and challenges lie ahead? 📖✨

Hope you enjoyed reading the first chapter.

Don't forget to vote and comment :)

Love Yoon ~