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The soft hum of a coffee grinder filled the air as Somin wiped down the counter for the third time that morning. Jiwoo, perched on a stool near the register, twirled a pen between her fingers as she scribbled down ideas in their notebook titled "Café Goals." It was an ambitious title for a book that mostly contained doodles of pastries and sarcastic comments about customers."Somin, you wiped that counter so hard, I think it’s shinier than my future," Jiwoo teased, not looking up.Somin sighed dramatically. "If you have time to be funny, you have time to help. That delivery guy was supposed to bring the new coffee beans an hour ago, and I am *not* serving instant coffee to anyone.""Relax," Jiwoo said, waving a hand dismissively. "The regulars love us too much to care. Well, except Mr. Park. He’d probably faint if we didn’t have his fancy Ethiopian blend."Just as Somin opened her mouth to retort, the front door jingled open, and in walked BM, his height and broad shoulders instantly commanding attention. He carried a garment bag over one arm and a cup of iced americano in the other."Ladies!" he boomed, his grin as wide as ever. "Guess who’s here to rescue your morning?""Let me guess," Jiwoo said, deadpan. "The guy who’s about to order something he’ll barely finish while giving us unsolicited business advice?"BM laughed, completely unfazed. "Hey, my advice is gold. Speaking of which, you guys ever think about selling merch? Like café-themed hoodies or something? I’ve got a guy who can hook you up."Somin groaned. "Oppa, we’re barely keeping up with coffee orders, and you want us to start a fashion line?""Think about it," he said with a wink, plopping into a chair near the window. "You could call it... Brewtique. Get it? Brew-tique?"Before either of them could respond, the door jingled again, and in walked Jseph, looking half-asleep and clutching his laptop bag. "Morning," he mumbled, making a beeline for the counter. "Triple espresso, please.""Rough night?" Jiwoo asked, raising an eyebrow."You don’t want to know," Jseph replied, collapsing onto the stool beside BM. "Let’s just say that writing a piece on ‘The Top Ten Kimchi Brands You Didn’t Know Existed’ was not the highlight of my career."BM slapped him on the back. "Hey, someone’s gotta educate the masses, man. It’s noble work."Jseph shot him a look. "Noble isn’t the word I’d use."The four friends settled into their usual banter, the café buzzing with a comfortable energy. Outside, the streets of Seoul bustled with life, but inside, it was their little world—a place where bad puns, ridiculous ideas, and endless cups of coffee kept their bond strong.Just as Jiwoo was about to recount a particularly strange customer encounter, the door jingled once more. This time, it was Bang Chan, balancing a box of Staydium LA merchandise in one hand and a very frazzled expression on his face."BM hyung, your online orders just tripled overnight," he announced, eyes wide. "I hope you’re ready."BM’s grin faltered for half a second before he turned to his friends. "Okay, new plan: Who wants to work part-time for me?"Jiwoo leaned closer to Somin and whispered, "Let’s hire someone for the café *before* he ropes us into his madness."Somin nodded. "Agreed. But first, let’s make sure Jseph doesn’t pass out on that stool."Chan set the box down with a huff and joined their table, grabbing a cookie from the counter without asking. "Hyung, you’re really going to need help. I can’t run the online store, pack orders, and now deal with walk-in customers all at the same time.""Walk-ins?" Jiwoo asked, her curiosity piqued. "I thought your physical store was still a work in progress.""It was," BM admitted. "You know last week was just an informal opening? With just you guys and some other friends. But then I got excited and posted about it on Instagram. Now everyone’s showing up, and we’re… sort of open for business?"Somin groaned again. "Oppa, you’re unbelievable.""It’s called hustle," BM said, pointing a finger at her. "You should try it."Jseph snorted. "Coming from the guy who once tried to sell branded chopsticks. How did that go again?""Limited edition," BM corrected, raising his cup like a toast. "And I’ll have you know, they sold out."Jiwoo raised an eyebrow. "You bought them yourself, didn’t you?"Before BM could defend himself, Chan spoke up. "Actually, hyung, I might know someone who can help out at the store."BM turned to him, intrigued. "Oh yeah? Who?""A friend of mine," Chan said, pulling out his phone. "Felix. He’s super reliable, great with people, and has some retail experience."BM nodded thoughtfully. "Alright, set up an interview. Let’s see if Felix has what it takes to join Staydium LA."The café door jingled yet again. This time, it was Mr. Park, their most particular customer, walking in with a determined expression. Somin straightened up instantly, whispering to Jiwoo, "Brace yourself.""Good morning," Mr. Park greeted, his tone serious. "Do you have my usual?""Of course, Mr. Park," Somin replied with a polite smile. "One Ethiopian pour-over coming right up."As Somin busied herself with the order, Mr. Park’s gaze fell on the group. "Young people these days spend too much time talking and not enough time working.""Actually, sir," Jseph began with a straight face, "I’m currently conducting research for an article about the sociological impacts of café culture."Mr. Park’s eyebrows rose. "Oh? And what have you concluded?""That Ethiopian coffee is the cornerstone of modern civilization," Jseph replied, earning a stifled laugh from Jiwoo.BM leaned toward Chan and whispered, "This guy’s good."The day continued with its usual chaos: Somin juggling orders, Jiwoo trying to fix their eternally glitchy Wi-Fi, and BM brainstorming yet another wild idea for his store. Chan’s phone buzzed non-stop with online inquiries, and Jseph managed to churn out a draft for his latest article while dodging Mr. Park’s disapproving glances.By the time evening rolled around, the friends found themselves slouched in the café’s cozy corner, sipping leftover drinks and laughing about the day’s events. Outside, Seoul’s neon lights painted the streets with a vibrant glow, but inside, the warmth of friendship made their small café feel like the heart of the city.
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The mid-morning sun streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Staydium LA, casting warm golden light over the racks of trendy streetwear. BM stood near the counter, adjusting a display of oversized hoodies while humming to himself. Beside him, Bang Chan was busy scrolling through his phone, occasionally answering customer inquiries online.“Hyung, Felix will be here in ten minutes,” Chan announced, not looking up. “He’s really excited about this, by the way. I told him you’re pretty chill.”BM smirked. “Pretty chill? That’s underselling it. I’m the coolest boss anyone could ask for.”Chan raised an eyebrow but didn’t comment, knowing better than to feed BM’s ego. Instead, he continued typing away on his phone, sending Felix a quick update about directions to the store.True to his word, Felix arrived exactly ten minutes later. The door jingled as he stepped inside, and BM looked up from his display. Felix’s bright smile and sunny demeanor seemed to light up the room even more than the sunlight. He was dressed casually but neatly in a graphic tee and ripped jeans, his blond hair slightly tousled from the breeze outside.“Felix!” Chan greeted warmly, waving him over. “Come meet BM hyung.”Felix approached the counter, extending a hand with a polite bow. “It’s nice to meet you, hyung. Chan’s told me a lot about you.”BM shook his hand firmly, grinning. “All good things, I hope. Welcome to Staydium LA, where fashion meets chaos. Let’s sit and talk.”He gestured toward a small seating area near the back of the store, where a sleek black coffee table and a couple of chairs were arranged. The three of them settled in, BM leaning back casually while Felix sat up straight, looking attentive but not overly nervous.“So, Felix,” BM began, clasping his hands together. “Chan tells me you’ve got some retail experience. Want to fill me in?”Felix nodded eagerly. “Yes, hyung. I worked part-time at a boutique last year, mostly helping with customers and managing inventory. I also helped set up displays and handled online orders when things got busy.”BM nodded, impressed. “Sounds like you’ve got the basics down. How do you feel about working in a place like this? It’s not your typical boutique—we’re all about making connections with customers, keeping things fun, and embracing a little chaos.”Felix smiled, his freckles crinkling with the expression. “I think that sounds amazing. I love talking to people, and I’ve been following Staydium LA online since you started. The vibe here feels really positive and creative.”BM’s grin widened. “Good answer. Creativity’s the backbone of everything we do here.” He glanced at Chan. “What’s your take, Chan? You think Felix can handle the Staydium madness?”Chan nodded without hesitation. “Absolutely. Felix is hardworking, reliable, and great under pressure. Plus, he’s got a knack for organizing stuff—something we definitely need.”“Organized, huh?” BM teased, raising an eyebrow. “You’re not gonna freak out if I rearrange the store layout every week, are you?”Felix laughed. “Not at all, hyung. I’m pretty adaptable. And if you need help with the rearranging, I’m all in.”BM sized him up, leaning back thoughtfully. “I’ll admit, you’ve got a good attitude. But man, you’re so tiny next to me! Are we sure you’re old enough to work here?”Felix’s eyes sparkled with amusement. “Don’t let my size fool you, hyung. I’ve got energy for days.”“It’s not just the size,” BM continued, leaning forward with a mock-serious expression. “You look so innocent. I feel like I’m interviewing a kid fresh out of high school.”Chan snickered, chiming in, “Just wait until you hear his voice.”Felix glanced at Chan, smirking. “Should I?”“Go for it,” Chan encouraged.Clearing his throat, Felix dropped his tone several octaves, his deep voice resonating through the room. “How’s this, hyung? Still think I look too young?”BM burst out laughing, slapping his thigh. “Alright, you’ve got me there. That voice is no joke. You’re like a tiny guy with a giant’s vocal cords.”The three of them laughed, the ice thoroughly broken. BM nodded, clearly impressed. “Alright, let’s talk scheduling. We’re still figuring out peak hours since the store’s only been open for a hot minute, but weekends are definitely busy. How’s your availability?”“I’m flexible,” Felix replied. “Weekends are no problem, and I can adjust during the week if needed.”“Perfect. Now, one last question,” BM said, his tone suddenly serious. “What’s your opinion on oversized hoodies?”Felix blinked, caught off guard, before breaking into a wide grin. “They’re the best, obviously. Comfortable and stylish.”BM leaned back, satisfied. “Good answer. You’re hired.”Felix’s eyes widened. “Really? Just like that?”BM shrugged. “You’ve got the energy we need, and I trust Chan’s judgment. Welcome to the Staydium family, Felix.”Chan clapped Felix on the back, grinning. “Told you it’d go well.”“Thanks, hyung. I won’t let you down,” Felix said, his voice earnest.BM stood, extending a hand for a high five. “Alright, let’s get you trained up. Your first lesson: never let me run out of iced americanos. After that, we’ll talk inventory.”Felix laughed, nodding. “Got it.”As the three of them moved back toward the counter, the buzz of the store seemed to take on a new energy. With Felix on board, Staydium LA was ready to tackle whatever chaos came next.
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The cozy warmth of the café lingered in the air, carrying hints of rich coffee and flaky pastries. Somin bustled around, topping up sugar jars with practiced efficiency, while Jiwoo, perched on a stool at the counter, scrolled through a vendor's catalog on their tablet. The morning rush had subsided, leaving a quiet calm that felt like a well-earned break.The door jingled open, and BM strode in, his usual oversized hoodie making him look both effortlessly cool and slightly out of place in the quaint café setting. He carried a triumphant expression, like he’d just won the lottery.“Guess who just hired a part-time worker?” he announced, practically vibrating with excitement.Jiwoo looked up, unimpressed. “Let me guess. It’s someone cool enough to deal with your chaos but also organized enough to fix all the messes you make?”BM grinned. “Exactly! Felix starts this weekend.”Somin set down the sugar jar, narrowing her eyes at him. “Wait, Felix? As in Chan’s friend Felix?”“Yup,” BM confirmed, plopping into a chair near the counter. “Kid’s a natural. Great attitude, knows his way around a retail store, and he’s got that friendly vibe that customers love. Plus, Chan vouched for him, so I figured, why not?”Just then, the door jingled again, and Jseph strolled in, his laptop bag slung over one shoulder. “What’s all the noise about?” he asked, setting the bag down on an empty chair.“BM oppa hired someone for his store,” Somin explained. “Felix, Chan’s friend.”“Felix? The one who baked those cookies at Chan’s housewarming?” Jseph asked, eyebrows raised.BM nodded. “The very same. Multi-talented, that one. We’re lucky to have him.”Jiwoo smirked. “So, if Matthew oppa can hire someone, why can’t we? Honestly, we’ve been talking about getting part-time help for weeks now. Maybe it’s time we actually do it.”Somin hesitated, chewing on her bottom lip. “I don’t know. What if we pick the wrong person? This is our baby, Jiwoo. We can’t just let anyone waltz in and mess with it.”“Relax,” Jiwoo said, waving her hand dismissively. “We’ll screen them thoroughly. Make them jump through hoops if we have to. But seriously, Somin, we can’t keep running around like headless chickens every time there’s a rush. We need help.”BM leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. “Jiwoo’s right. And if it makes you feel better, I can help vet candidates. I’ve got an eye for talent.”Somin gave him a skeptical look. “The same eye that thought neon yellow aprons were fashionable?”Jseph chuckled, pulling out his laptop. “For what it’s worth, I think it’s a good idea. Having an extra set of hands around here could make a huge difference. Plus, if the person turns out to be a disaster, you can always fire them. No harm done.”“Optimistic as always,” Jiwoo said dryly. “But he’s not wrong. Let’s at least put up a notice and see who applies.”Somin sighed, clearly outnumbered. “Fine. But we’re setting high standards. No slackers, no weirdos, and definitely no one who complains about cleaning.”“Deal,” Jiwoo said, grinning. She grabbed a piece of paper and began sketching out a help-wanted poster. “How about this: ‘Seeking part-time staff for a busy but fun café. Must love coffee, pastries, and dealing with mildly chaotic bosses.’”BM laughed. “I’d apply just for the vibe.”“Please don’t,” Somin said, rolling her eyes. “One of you is enough.”As Jiwoo finalized the poster, Jseph glanced at BM. “So, what’s Felix’s schedule like? Do you think he’ll stick around long-term?”“I hope so,” BM replied. “Kid’s got potential. And honestly, I’d rather spend my energy growing the store than worrying about whether orders are getting packed on time. Felix gives me that peace of mind.”“Must be nice,” Somin muttered. “Meanwhile, Jiwoo and I are over here losing sleep over supplier issues and menu planning.”“Which is why you’re hiring someone,” Jiwoo said firmly, tapping the poster with her pen. “Now, let’s put this up and see what happens.”BM stood, stretching. “Alright, team café, I’m heading out. Felix is coming by later to get a tour of the stockroom, and I need to make sure everything’s in order. Good luck with the hiring. If you need tips, you know where to find me.”“Oh, we’ll find you,” Jiwoo said with a sly smile. “And when we do, you’d better have that stockroom organized. No excuses.”BM saluted dramatically before heading for the door. The trio watched him leave, the sound of his laughter fading as the door swung shut.“You know,” Jseph said after a moment, “he makes a good point. Having a reliable employee could make life a lot easier”Somin nodded slowly. “Maybe this could actually work. But if it doesn’t…”“If it doesn’t,” Jiwoo said confidently, “we’ll deal with it. We’ve faced worse.”Later that day, Jiwoo and Somin debated where to place their new help-wanted poster. They finally settled on the café’s front door, making sure it was eye-catching but not obnoxious. Jseph even chimed in, offering to share the news on his social media.The café remained quiet as they worked, the calm before another storm of customers. Somin, still apprehensive about the idea, couldn’t help but wonder who might walk through their doors next. Jiwoo, ever the optimist, seemed ready for anything.“Who knows,” Jiwoo mused as they closed for the evening, “maybe we’ll find our own Felix.”“Or someone even better,” Jseph quipped.Somin gave them both a wary smile. “Let’s just hope they love coffee as much as we do.”With that, they taped the help-wanted poster to the café’s front door, stepping back to admire their handiwork. It was a small step, but one that could lead to big changes—the kind of changes that made the chaos of their daily lives a little more manageable.
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The day after they taped the help-wanted poster to the front door, Jiwoo and Somin were already regretting their decision. The café had barely opened when the first applicant walked in."Hi, I’m here for the job!" announced a young man in a bright pink suit. His enthusiasm was as dazzling as his outfit.Somin and Jiwoo exchanged glances. "Oh, uh, great," Somin said, trying to suppress a nervous laugh. "Do you have any experience working in a café?""Not really," he admitted, "but I’m a fast learner! Also, I’m great with people. Watch this!"He turned to the only other customer in the café, who was peacefully sipping their coffee, and yelled, "Hey! How’s that latte? Best you’ve ever had, right?"The startled customer nearly spilled their drink. Somin covered her mouth to hide her horror, while Jiwoo struggled to keep a straight face. "Thank you for coming," Jiwoo said quickly, ushering him toward the door. "We’ll let you know."The man left, undeterred, flashing them a thumbs-up on his way out."We are doomed," Somin groaned, slumping against the counter.Jiwoo chuckled. "Hey, at least he was enthusiastic."The next applicant wasn’t much better. A college student arrived, nervously clutching a resume that was barely more than a list of hobbies. When asked about her experience with coffee, she confessed, "I… drink it sometimes?""That’s a start," Jiwoo muttered under her breath, earning a glare from Somin.By mid-morning, they’d seen six applicants, none of whom seemed remotely qualified. Just as they were debating whether to call it quits for the day, the door jingled again. In walked a tall young woman with sharp features, wearing a leather jacket and a confident expression."Hi," she said, her voice calm and self-assured. "I’m Lee Yubin. I saw your poster."Somin perked up immediately. There was something about her demeanor that screamed competence. "Great. Do you have a resume?"Yubin handed over a neatly printed document. Jiwoo skimmed it, her eyebrows rising in surprise. "You worked as a barista in Busan for 1.5 years?""That’s right," Yubin said. "I also managed inventory and trained new staff. I moved to Seoul recently and have been looking for something similar."Somin’s skepticism melted away. "What do you know about latte art?""Want me to show you?" Yubin asked, nodding toward the espresso machine.Jiwoo grinned. "By all means."Within minutes, Yubin had crafted a perfect swan design on a latte, leaving both café owners speechless."You’re hired," Somin blurted out, earning a laugh from Jiwoo. "I mean… we’ll call you after we finish interviewing everyone," she added quickly, trying to regain her composure.Yubin smiled, clearly amused. "I’ll look forward to it."Once she left, Jiwoo turned to Somin with a knowing smirk. "So, our hiring process wasn’t a total disaster.""She’s perfect," Somin admitted. "Let’s not even pretend to consider anyone else." Meanwhile, just ten blocks away at Staydium LA, Felix was starting his first shift. He stood behind the counter, nervously adjusting his apron as BM gave him a quick rundown of the store’s layout."Alright, so the hoodies are over there, the joggers are by the fitting room, and the accessories are near the checkout," BM explained. "Think you’ve got it?"Felix nodded. "Got it."BM clapped him on the back, nearly knocking the smaller man over. "You’ll be great. Just remember to smile and be yourself. Customers eat that up."As the day went on, Felix quickly proved himself to be a natural. His friendly demeanor and knack for organization impressed even BM, who found himself with more free time than he’d had in weeks.At one point, a customer commented on Felix’s deep voice, visibly startled by the contrast between his youthful appearance and rich tone. "Wow," the customer said, "I wasn’t expecting that."Felix chuckled, used to the reaction. "It’s the most common feedback I get," he joked, earning a laugh from BM.By the end of the day, BM was feeling optimistic about the future. "You’re a lifesaver, Felix," he said as they closed up shop. "I should’ve hired you months ago."Felix grinned. "Glad I could help." Back at the café, Jiwoo and Somin were finalizing their decision. "So, we agree," Jiwoo said, tapping her pen against the counter. "Yubin’s the one.""Absolutely," Somin replied. "Let’s call her tomorrow and make it official."As the café lights dimmed and the two friends locked up for the night, they couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. For the first time in weeks, it felt like things were falling into place.
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The warm, inviting scent of homemade tteokbokki and fried chicken wafted through the air as the four friends gathered in BM’s cozy apartment for their usual weekend catch-up. The apartment was a blend of his personality: gym equipment in one corner, a shelf lined with sneakers, and walls adorned with framed posters from Staydium LA’s early days. A playlist of K-R&B hummed in the background, setting a relaxed tone for the evening."Alright," BM said, setting a massive bowl of tteokbokki on the low table in the center of the room. "Let’s hear it. How was everyone’s week?"Jiwoo flopped onto the couch, grabbing a piece of fried chicken from the platter. "Where do I even start? We’ve had a parade of characters show up for that job. I swear, one guy thought latte art meant drawing with a pen on paper."Somin burst into laughter, nearly spilling her glass of soju. "And don’t forget the guy who yelled at a customer just to prove he was good with people."BM choked on his drink. "Wait, what? Are you hiring or auditioning for a sitcom?""It felt like both," Jiwoo said, grinning. "But we found someone amazing. Lee Yubin. She’s practically a coffee genius—1.5 years of experience and mentioned she’s working part-time because she’s considering going back to school to study design or something creative. and latte art that looks like it belongs in a museum.""Ooh, fancy," BM teased, nudging Somin. "Do we get a friends-and-family discount now?"Somin rolled her eyes but smiled. "She’s starting next week, so we’ll see how she handles the rush hours and Jiwoo’s energy. We’ll see if she can handle Jiwoo’s chaos.""My chaos?" Jiwoo protested. "You’re the one who—""Okay, okay," Jseph interrupted, holding up a hand. "Before this turns into a debate, let me share. My week was… weird."Everyone turned to Jseph, who had been quietly munching on a kimbap roll. He sighed. "I got assigned to cover a story on a cat cafe that’s apparently haunted."BM and Jiwoo burst out laughing. "Haunted?" BM managed to say between chuckles. "Like ghost cats?""That’s what the owner claims," Jseph said, shaking his head. "Apparently, customers keep seeing shadowy feline figures that aren’t from the actual cats in the cafe."Somin giggled. "Did you see anything?""No," Jseph admitted, "but I did get scratched by a very real and very angry tabby.""So no ghosts, just bad luck," Jiwoo quipped, earning a groan from Jseph.BM leaned back, wiping tears of laughter from his eyes. "Man, your life is a sitcom.""Speaking of new employees," Somin said, changing the subject, "how’s Felix doing at the store?"BM’s face lit up. "That kid’s a gem. He’s already got the place more organized than I ever managed. And the customers love him. Someone even asked if he was my younger brother.""Well, you are like a walking refrigerator," Jiwoo joked, gesturing at BM’s broad frame. "Next to you, anyone would look tiny.""And then he speaks," Somin added, laughing, "and people are so shocked that they nearly drop their shopping bags. You should hear some of the double takes in the store!""It’s true," BM said, smiling. "He’s already got regulars asking for him by name. The guy’s a magnet.""Sounds like you scored big," Jseph said, reaching for another piece of chicken. "Now I’m tempted to hire someone too. Maybe they can write about haunted cafes so I don’t have to."The group laughed, clinking their glasses together."To surviving our weeks," Jiwoo declared. "And to our new employees.""Cheers!" everyone chimed in.As the night went on, the conversation drifted to lighter topics: a new drama Somin was hooked on, Jiwoo’s latest experiment in baking (which, according to her, was “not a complete disaster”), and BM’s plans to add a custom hoodie line to Staydium LA. Jseph, ever the storyteller, recounted more absurd moments from his reporting assignments, keeping everyone in stitches."Speaking of baking," Jiwoo said, leaning forward with a mischievous grin. "Somin made me try her new scone recipe, and it was… interesting.""Hey!" Somin protested, laughing. "You ate three of them!""I was hungry," Jiwoo retorted. "But I’ll admit, they were better than your last batch.""Progress," Somin said proudly, raising her glass.By the time they’d cleared the table and moved on to dessert—a box of macarons Somin had brought from a nearby patisserie—the atmosphere was warm and content. These moments, surrounded by good food and great friends, were what kept them grounded amid their hectic lives."Alright," BM said, stretching as he stood up. "Next weekend, someone else is hosting. My gym corner can only handle so many tteokbokki stains."Jiwoo raised a hand. "Not it! My place is a mess.""Mine too," Somin added quickly, grinning at Jseph.Jseph sighed dramatically. "Fine, I’ll host. But don’t expect anything fancy.""Just don’t invite any ghost cats," BM joked, earning a playful shove from Jseph.As they gathered their things and said their goodbyes, the friends felt a renewed sense of connection. No matter how chaotic their weeks were, they always had this—a place to laugh, unwind, and face the madness together.As the door closed behind them, BM looked around at the now-empty apartment. He sighed with a smile, already thinking about the hoodie designs he wanted to show Felix next week. For now, though, he cleaned up the dishes, savoring the lingering warmth of the evening’s laughter.
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The soft jingle of the doorbell echoed as Yubin stepped into the cozy café for her first official shift. Dressed in a crisp white shirt and a black apron that Jiwoo had handed her, she looked both nervous and determined."Morning, boss," she greeted with a small smile, trying to lighten the tension she felt.Somin, who was setting up the pastry display, glanced up and grinned. "Oh, you’re calling me boss now? I like that.""Don’t let it go to your head," Jiwoo chimed in, emerging from the back with a tray of freshly baked scones. "But seriously, Yubin-ssi, welcome to the chaos. Ready for the morning rush?"Yubin nodded, clutching the straps of her apron. "As ready as I’ll ever be."The morning started smoothly enough. Yubin quickly picked up the rhythm of taking orders and prepping drinks, impressing a few customers with her near-perfect latte art. Her hands shook slightly on the first cup, but by the third, she was confidently crafting tulips and hearts in foamy perfection."Not bad," Jiwoo said, watching her from the counter. "But let’s see how you handle a double-shot mocha with extra foam."Yubin laughed nervously but dove into the task. Her mocha turned out a little messier than she’d hoped, but the customer seemed happy enough. By mid-morning, the café was buzzing with customers, and Yubin was keeping up with the pace—though not without a few hiccups."I’m so sorry!" Yubin exclaimed as a cappuccino order ended up on the counter instead of being handed directly to the customer."It’s okay," Somin reassured her. "First-day jitters. You’re doing great."Jiwoo, however, couldn’t resist teasing. "Just don’t spill anything on anyone, and you’ll be fine."By noon, Yubin was starting to find her groove. The three of them worked like a well-oiled machine, with Somin handling the register, Jiwoo darting between tables, and Yubin manning the espresso machine. Even the regulars seemed to take a liking to the new barista, offering warm smiles and compliments on her drinks."She’s a keeper," one older customer told Somin as Yubin delivered a perfectly layered caramel macchiato."I know," Somin replied with a proud smile. "We got lucky."Just as the rush began to die down, the deliveryman arrived with a package."Flowers for Jeon Somin-ssi," he announced, carrying a large bouquet of vibrant sunflowers, white lilies, and roses."Oh?" Somin blinked, setting down the tray of croissants she was carrying. "Who sent these?"The deliveryman shrugged. "No card. Just the address."Jiwoo’s eyes widened as she leaned over to inspect the bouquet. "Secret admirer? Ooooh, Somin, do you have something to tell us?"Somin rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the faint blush creeping up her cheeks. "I have no idea who would send these."Yubin, ever the polite observer, glanced between them. "Maybe a customer? You’re always so nice to everyone.""Or," Jiwoo interjected with a sly grin, "maybe it’s that guy who came in last week and kept asking for Somin’s name.""Stop it," Somin said, trying to focus on organizing the counter, though she was clearly flustered. "It’s probably a mistake."Jiwoo laughed. "If it’s a mistake, then let’s keep them anyway. These flowers are too pretty to go to waste."The mystery bouquet became the topic of conversation for the rest of the afternoon, with Jiwoo spinning increasingly wild theories about secret admirers and mysterious customers. Somin, on the other hand, tried to brush it off, but every time she glanced at the bouquet, her curiosity grew.Meanwhile, Yubin’s first day continued with minor ups and downs. She accidentally added syrup to an iced Americano, which earned a good-natured groan from Jiwoo but was quickly corrected. Despite the occasional misstep, her cheerful demeanor and willingness to learn won over both her coworkers and the customers.By closing time, the café was quiet again. Somin, Jiwoo, and Yubin gathered around the counter, sipping iced teas and reflecting on the day."So," Jiwoo said, looking at Yubin. "How do you feel? Survived your first day?"Yubin smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Tired, but in a good way. I think I’ll sleep well tonight.""You did great," Somin said sincerely. "Honestly, way better than I did on my first day.""She’s not lying," Jiwoo added with a smirk. "Her first latte was basically coffee soup.""And you were so supportive," Somin shot back, grinning.Yubin laughed, enjoying the banter between them. "Thanks for giving me a chance. I’ll do my best not to mess up too much.""You’ve already impressed the regulars," Somin said, nodding. "That’s half the battle won."As they cleaned up and locked the doors, the bouquet of flowers sat prominently on the counter. Somin glanced at it one last time before turning off the lights, her mind swirling with curiosity."See you tomorrow!" Yubin called as they parted ways."Goodnight!" Somin and Jiwoo replied in unison.As Somin walked home, the image of the bouquet lingered in her mind. Who could’ve sent it? And why? She couldn’t shake the strange mix of excitement and unease the flowers had stirred within her.
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Jseph’s editor’s office was cramped, its desk cluttered with papers, coffee cups, and a perpetually blinking computer screen. The man himself, a perpetually stressed middle-aged journalist named Mr. Park, was rubbing his temples as Jseph entered."Taehyung-ssi, do you have anything on that haunted cat café story yet?" Mr. Park asked without looking up."Still writing it," Jseph replied, holding up his notebook. "But I wanted to ask—"Before he could finish, Mr. Park groaned, tossing a file onto the desk. "Of all the times to get sick… the staff writer scheduled to interview Bambam and Yugyeom is out with the flu. And the interview is tomorrow. Do you know how hard it was to schedule those two?"Jseph perked up. "Wait, Bambam and Yugyeom? The designer and the dancer? They’re making waves in Seoul’s creative scene right now, right?""Exactly," Mr. Park said, exasperated. "And now I’ve got no one to cover it.""I’ll do it," Jseph offered immediately.Mr. Park looked at him skeptically. "Do you even know anything about fashion or dance?""Not a thing," Jseph admitted with a grin, "but I’m a quick learner. Besides, I’m good at talking to people."Mr. Park hesitated, weighing his options. "You’re my last resort. Don’t screw it up, Mr. Kim. These guys are on the verge of breaking out, and this piece could be big for us.""Got it," Jseph said, already jotting down notes.---The next day, Jseph found himself outside a trendy studio space in Gangnam. The building’s sleek, modern design screamed “creative hub,” and Jseph felt a flicker of nervousness as he adjusted his blazer. He wasn’t exactly an expert on fashion or dance, but he had charm, and he planned to use it.Inside, Jseph stepped into a bright room filled with racks of clothes, sketchbooks, and a large mirror-lined wall. Bambam and Yugyeom were already there, chatting animatedly as they adjusted a few pieces on the racks. Bambam, dressed in a bold, asymmetrical jacket and leather pants, exuded designer chic. Yugyeom, in contrast, wore a simple oversized hoodie and joggers, but his relaxed style had an undeniable edge, showing off their distinct personalities."Hi, I’m Kim Taehyung, from Seoul Journal," he said, extending a hand. "Thanks for making time for this.""Of course," Bambam said with a smile, shaking his hand. "It’s not every day we get to do an interview together.""Yeah," Yugyeom added, his light and cheerful tone catching Jseph off guard. "Usually, it’s just one of us."They sat down in a cozy corner of the studio, and Jseph pulled out his recorder and notebook. "Alright, let’s start with the basics. How did you two begin working together?"Bambam leaned back, a nostalgic look crossing his face. "We’ve been friends since high school. I’ve always been into designing clothes, and Yugyeom’s been dancing practically since he could walk. At some point, we realized our passions could complement each other.""Yeah," Yugyeom chimed in. "Bambam designs these amazing outfits, and I use them in my performances. It’s like we’re showcasing each other’s work.""Sounds like a perfect partnership," Jseph said, scribbling notes. "What’s been the biggest challenge in building your brand?""Funding," Bambam said without hesitation. "Starting out, we didn’t have much, so we had to get creative with resources. There were nights we stayed up stitching clothes ourselves.""And finding people who believe in you," Yugyeom added. "The creative world can be cutthroat."The conversation flowed easily, with Bambam and Yugyeom sharing stories of their struggles and triumphs. Jseph found himself genuinely impressed by their dedication and vision. As the interview wound down, he decided to share a little of his own life."You know," he said, leaning forward, "I’m not exactly an expert on fashion, but one of my closest friends owns a clothing store. It’s small, but he’s incredibly passionate about it. And he’s a dancer too. When he started out, he didn’t have a lot of resources, so he roped in me, our friends, and even himself to model for his website."Bambam laughed. "You? A model? Well, I can see that.""It wasn’t a disaster, but definitely out of my comfort zone. He’s doing well now, though. His store’s called Staydium LA. You might’ve heard of it?"Yugyeom’s eyes lit up. "Wait, Staydium LA? I think I’ve seen their stuff online.""That’s my friend BM’s place," Jseph said. "You should check it out. Knowing him, he’d love to connect with you two.""Definitely," Bambam said, pulling out his phone. "Let’s exchange info. Maybe we can collaborate or something."Jseph handed over his business card, and they swapped contact details. As they wrapped up the session, Jseph couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Not only had he nailed the interview, but he’d also potentially opened doors for BM."Thanks for your time," Jseph said as he packed up his things. "I’ll make sure the article does you justice.""Thanks, Taehuyng-ssi" Yugyeom said with a polite bow. "And tell your friend we’ll be in touch."As Jseph walked out of the studio and into the crisp evening air, he felt a rare sense of excitement. The story wasn’t just about Bambam and Yugyeom anymore. It was about connections, opportunities, and the unexpected ways life brought people together.On his way back home, he couldn’t resist texting BM: "Guess who might have a collab opportunity for you? Details later. Drinks on you this weekend."BM’s reply came almost instantly: "You’re the best. Also, you owe me for the time you spilled coffee on my stock."Jseph chuckled, tucking his phone away. It had been a good day.
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The usual clinking of cups and gentle hum of conversation filled the café as the day wound down. Jseph walked in, his notebook tucked under one arm and a satisfied grin on his face. Somin and Jiwoo were behind the counter, wrapping up their tasks for the evening. BM sat at his usual corner table, sipping an iced Americano and scrolling through his phone.“You’re looking smug,” BM said as Jseph approached, raising an eyebrow. “Did you finally finish that cat café story?”Jseph slid into the seat across from him. “Not yet, but I’ve got something better.”Somin appeared at their table, a tray balanced expertly in her hand. “Better than haunted cats? That’s a high bar, oppa.” She set down a latte for Jseph without needing to ask.Jiwoo trailed behind her, wiping her hands on her apron. “Spill it. What’s got you so chipper?”Jseph leaned back dramatically, drawing out the moment. “I just interviewed Bambam and Yugyeom.”Somin gasped, her eyes lighting up. “The designer and dancer duo? They’re so cool!”Jiwoo tilted her head. “Aren’t they still kind of under the radar? How’d you land that?”“Last-minute substitution,” Jseph said, smirking. “The original reporter got sick, so I swooped in to save the day.”BM looked impressed. “Not bad. How’d it go?”“Actually, really well,” Jseph said. “They’re incredibly down-to-earth. We talked about their creative process, their struggles starting out, and…” He leaned forward conspiratorially. “I might have mentioned Staydium LA.”BM nearly choked on his drink. “You what?”“Relax,” Jseph said, laughing. “I didn’t promise them free clothes or anything. I just told them about the store, how you’re a dancer-turned-entrepreneur, and how we all modeled for your website back in the day.”“Oh my god,” Jiwoo said, bursting into laughter. “Do you think they’ll look it up and see those awful photos?”“Hey,” BM protested. “They weren’t awful. They were… amateur.”Somin rolled her eyes. “They’re lucky they’re cute. Those poses were tragic.”“Anyway,” Jseph said, redirecting the conversation, “they seemed genuinely interested. They even exchanged contact info with me. They might reach out to collaborate.”BM looked thoughtful. “That’s actually kind of exciting. I’ve been wanting to branch out and connect with other creatives.”“You’re welcome,” Jseph said, raising his cup in mock salute.The bell above the café door jingled as a delivery person walked in, holding a bouquet of flowers. Somin’s name was written on the card attached to the arrangement of soft pink roses and white lilies.“Delivery for Jeon Somin,” the courier announced.Everyone turned to look, and Somin’s cheeks flushed. “For me?” she asked, stepping out from behind the counter.“Apparently,” Jiwoo teased, wiggling her eyebrows.The courier handed over the flowers, and Somin stared at them, clearly flustered. “There must be a mistake.”“Not unless there’s another Jeon Somin here,” Jseph said, grinning.BM leaned over to inspect the bouquet. “Who’s the secret admirer? Check the card.”Somin carefully plucked the small card from the arrangement. It read: “To brighten your day.” There was no name.“Mysterious,” Jiwoo said, clearly enjoying the drama. “Who do you think sent them?”“I have no idea,” Somin said, setting the flowers on the counter. “It’s probably a mistake.”“Or,” BM said, “it’s someone who’s too shy to sign their name. Maybe a customer who’s smitten.”Somin groaned. “Can we not make this a thing?”“Oh, it’s definitely a thing now,” Jiwoo said with a mischievous grin.Jseph tapped his notebook thoughtfully. “You know, this could be the start of your very own rom-com subplot. Secret admirer, cryptic messages, dramatic reveals…”“You’re all terrible,” Somin said, but there was a hint of a smile on her face.The conversation shifted back to the interview, but the flowers remained a prominent presence on the counter, drawing curious glances from customers. Somin caught herself looking at them more than once, her mind racing with possibilities she refused to entertain aloud.---Later that evening, after the café closed, the group gathered at BM’s apartment to unwind. The flowers had, of course, come with them, much to Somin’s chagrin.“We’re bringing them for decoration,” Jiwoo had insisted. “They’re too pretty to leave at the café overnight.”Now they sat in a vase on BM’s coffee table, the center of attention once again.“So, any guesses on who sent them?” Jseph asked as he lounged on the couch.Somin sighed. “No. And honestly, I don’t want to think about it. It’s probably nothing.”BM handed her a can of soda. “You’re overthinking it. Just enjoy the gesture, whoever it’s from.”“Unless it’s creepy,” Jiwoo said, earning a glare from Somin.“It’s not the first bouquet,” Somin muttered, almost to herself. “Last week there was another one, smaller, but no card that time.”Somin shrugged. “I thought it was a delivery error, so I ignored it.”BM leaned forward, intrigued. “Two bouquets in a week? That’s definitely not a mistake.”“Or it’s someone with too much time and money,” Jseph quipped, earning a laugh from BM.“Okay, new topic,” Somin said firmly. “What’s next for Staydium LA? Are you really going to collaborate with Bambam and Yugyeom?”BM shrugged. “We’ll see. It’s exciting, but I’m not getting my hopes up yet. They’re busy building their own brand.”Jseph leaned forward. “You’d better let us know if you need models again. I’ve still got my blue steel pose ready.”Everyone burst out laughing, the mystery of the flowers temporarily forgotten in the warmth of their shared banter.
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The hum of Staydium LA’s air conditioning mixed with the faint clatter of hangers as Felix quietly sorted through the new inventory in the back. BM sat at the counter with his laptop open, tapping a pen against the table as he waited for Chan to arrive. It had been a busy week, and now, with Felix on board, the rhythm of the store was finally starting to stabilize.“Hyung, I’m here!” Chan called out as he walked through the glass door, a bag of snacks in one hand and his tablet in the other.“Finally,” BM said, closing his laptop. “I was starting to think you bailed.”“You know I wouldn’t miss our strategy meeting,” Chan said, plopping down on the stool next to BM. He slid the snack bag across the counter. “Here, fuel for the brainstorming session.”BM raised an eyebrow. “Choco pies? Really? What am I, a kid?”“Don’t act like you’re not gonna eat them,” Chan shot back with a grin. “So, how’s Felix doing? Settling in okay?”BM glanced toward the back, where Felix was meticulously folding t-shirts. “He’s good. Quiet, efficient, doesn’t need much supervision. A solid hire.”“That’s Felix for you,” Chan said, nodding. “He’s always been dependable.”“And his voice,” BM said, shaking his head. “Every time he speaks, I forget he’s not a forty-year-old businessman. It’s like, this deep rumble coming out of a baby face. Throws me off every time.”As if on cue, Felix’s voice carried over from the back. “Hyung, do you want these new jackets displayed near the front or in the seasonal section?”BM swiveled in his chair. “Uh, front’s good, thanks.”Chan tried to stifle a laugh. “See? He’s got range—deep voice, tiny frame. It’s like some cosmic joke.”Felix, oblivious to the teasing, carried on with his task. BM turned back to Chan. “Anyway, let’s get to it. What’s the status on the online store?”Chan pulled up a graph on his tablet, angling it so BM could see. “Sales are up by 12% compared to last month. The promotional posts you did on Instagram worked wonders, especially the ones with the behind-the-scenes shots.”“Told you those would hit,” BM said, smirking. “People love seeing the process.”“For sure,” Chan agreed. “But here’s the thing: if we’re gonna keep up this momentum, we need more collaborations or fresh marketing angles. Have you thought about partnering with local creatives?”“Funny you mention that,” BM said, leaning back in his chair. “Jseph just interviewed Bambam and Yugyeom.”Chan’s eyebrows shot up. “No way. The designer and dancer duo?”BM nodded. “Yeah. He mentioned Staydium LA during the interview. Said he told them about how I started this place and even brought up how we all modeled for the website when we first launched.”Chan’s eyes lit up. “That’s huge! If they’re interested, it could bring a lot of attention.”“I know,” BM said. “But we’ve gotta be smart about it. They’re still building their own brand, and collaborations cost money. We’re not exactly swimming in cash here.”Chan tapped his chin thoughtfully. “True. We’d need to run the numbers and make sure it’s worth the investment. Otherwise, you might have to…” He paused, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.“Might have to what?” BM asked, narrowing his eyes.“Ask Somin and Jiwoo noona to model again,” Chan said, barely holding back a laugh. “You know Jseph hyung’s not gonna do it willingly, and those two were surprisingly good the last time.”BM groaned, running a hand down his face. “Don’t remind me. They still tease me about those photos.”“They weren’t bad,” Chan said, shrugging. “Amateur, sure, but charming. And they fit the vibe you were going for.”“Tell that to Jiwoo,” BM said. “She calls me ‘director-nim’ every time she brings it up, just to rub it in.”Felix’s laugh echoed softly from the back.Chan chuckled. “Felix might actually be a good model, though. You’ve got the looks for it.”Felix turned slightly red but kept his focus on folding. “I’ll stick to managing inventory, thanks.”“Suit yourself,” BM said, shaking his head. “But don’t think you’re off the hook if we ever need backup.”Chan leaned back, tapping on his tablet again. “Okay, so if we’re serious about this Bambam and Yugyeom thing, let’s draft a plan. Best-case scenario, we’ll have a rough proposal to show them if they reach out. Worst case, we’ve got something we can adapt for future partnerships.”BM nodded. “Good call. Let’s get started.”As the two of them dove into brainstorming, Felix continued working quietly in the background, occasionally chiming in with a comment or a question. The dynamic between them—BM’s big ideas, Chan’s analytical approach, and Felix’s quiet efficiency—was starting to feel like a well-oiled machine.By the time they wrapped up, the sun had set, casting a warm glow over the store. BM stretched and glanced at Felix. “You good to close up?”Felix nodded. “Got it covered.”“Thanks, man,” BM said. Turning to Chan, he added, “And thanks for the snacks, even if they were choco pies.”“Anytime,” Chan said, grinning. “And remember, if this Bambam and Yugyeom thing works out, you owe me dinner.”“Deal,” BM said with a laugh. As they locked up for the night, he couldn’t help but feel optimistic. With a solid team and some exciting prospects on the horizon, Staydium LA was shaping up to be more than just a dream—it was becoming a success story.
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The warm smell of pastries greeted Jseph as he entered the cafe. The bell above the door jingled, and Yubin, who was behind the counter with Somin, turned to greet him. Jiwoo was bustling around, restocking shelves and chatting with a couple of regular customers."Annyeonghaseyo, Taehyung-ssi!" Yubin said cheerfully. "Back for more inspiration? Or just coffee this time?""Both," Jseph admitted with a sigh as he plopped into his usual corner seat. His laptop bag hit the table with a dull thud.Somin came over with a cup of his favorite Americano, already prepared. "Rough day?"Jseph nodded. "You have no idea. The editor just assigned me a piece on 'Why people don't like shoes with laces anymore.'"Jiwoo, overhearing from across the room, burst into laughter. "That's your big story?""It's tragic," Jseph said dramatically, taking a sip of his coffee. "I’m supposed to uncover the deep, existential reasons behind this apparent societal shift."Yubin joined in on the laughter. "Maybe it's because people are lazy?""Or," Somin added, "because they keep tripping over their own feet."Jseph groaned. "Mock all you want. Meanwhile, I’m struggling to finish my piece on the cat cafe. Now this? I might as well start a blog about niche footwear trends and call it a day."Jiwoo sat down at his table, a mischievous glint in her eye. "You could write about how people are evolving. Who has time to tie laces when slip-ons exist? Survival of the fittest, you know."Yubin, now leaning against the counter. "Don’t forget about the impact of velcro. Revolutionary stuff."Jseph threw up his hands. "Great. I’ll pitch it as 'The Rise of Velcro: Humanity’s Greatest Leap.'"Somin, ever the peacekeeper, patted his shoulder. "Hey, at least there’s some good news. Didn’t your Bambam and Yugyeom interview get published today?"At this, Jseph brightened. "It did! And it’s getting great feedback. People are loving their story.""See?" Jiwoo said, smiling. "You're not a lost cause."Yubin clapped her hands together. "Wait, I want to read it! Where can I find it?""I’ll send you the link," Jseph said, fishing his phone out of his pocket."So," Somin said, taking a seat, "did they mention anything about collaborating with BM?"Jseph shrugged. "I told them about Staydium LA and how BM’s doing his thing, but they’re still pretty focused on their own projects. Who knows, though?""That’d be cool," Jiwoo said thoughtfully. "Imagine if oppa’s store becomes their go-to spot.""BM oppa would be insufferable," Somin said with a laugh. "He’d never let us hear the end of it.""True," Jseph said, smirking. "He’d probably make us model again just to celebrate."Yubin tilted her head. "Wait, you all modeled?"Jiwoo groaned. "Don’t remind me. It was… an experience."Somin laughed. "We were terrible, but BM didn’t have anyone else back then. It was either us or mannequins.""You should’ve picked the mannequins," Jiwoo deadpanned, earning a round of laughter from everyone.The cafe grew quiet again as Jiwoo returned to restocking and Yubin went to prepare another order. Jseph opened his laptop, the glow of the screen reflecting his determined expression."Alright," he muttered to himself, "let’s figure out why the world hates laces.""Maybe start with the invention of Crocs," Jiwoo teased from across the room."Not helping!" Jseph called back, but his grin betrayed him.---As the evening wound down, Somin began closing up the register while Jiwoo wiped down tables. Yubin, having finished her shift, hung up her apron and grabbed her bag."Goodnight, everyone!" Yubin said cheerfully. "See you tomorrow.""Goodnight, Yubin-ssi" Somin said. "Thanks for your hard work today."After Yubin left, Jiwoo glanced at Jseph. "Are you staying until we close?"Jseph nodded absently, typing away. "I’ll head out once I finish this paragraph.""Famous last words," Somin said, shaking her head with a smile.A soft knock at the door startled them all. Jiwoo walked over and peeked out to find a delivery person holding yet another bouquet of flowers. She opened the door, and the courier handed her the arrangement with a polite bow."Delivery for Jeon Somin," he said.Jiwoo turned, smirking as she held up the bouquet. "Another one, Somin. Someone’s persistent."Somin’s face turned crimson. "You’re joking.""Nope," Jiwoo said, placing the bouquet on the counter. "This one’s even fancier than the last."Jseph looked up from his laptop, intrigued. "Let’s see the card."Somin reluctantly picked up the small card tucked into the flowers. It read: "To the brightest part of my day.""Still no name," Jiwoo observed. "This is getting interesting."Jseph leaned back in his chair. "You’ve got a mystery on your hands, Somin.""I don’t want a mystery," Somin said, placing the card back on the counter. "I want this to stop.""Or," Jiwoo said with a mischievous grin, "you could enjoy it. Secret admirers don’t come along every day.""Well, whoever it is has good taste," Jiwoo said, sniffing the flowers. "These are gorgeous.""Or expensive," Jseph added, earning a laugh from Jiwoo.As the night ended and the lights dimmed, the flowers sat prominently on the counter, a silent enigma. Somin couldn’t help but glance at them one last time before locking up, her mind buzzing with questions she wasn’t ready to answer.
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Two weeks had passed since the interview with Bambam and Yugyeom was published, and life had settled into a steady rhythm for everyone. The cafe was thriving under Somin and Jiwoo’s watchful eyes, with Yubin proving to be a reliable, if occasionally clumsy, addition to the team. At Staydium LA, Felix was fitting in well, his sunny disposition a hit with customers. Even BM admitted he was a quick learner.Meanwhile, Jseph’s career had taken a positive turn. Thanks to the overwhelming response to his interview with the up-and-coming duo, his editor had started assigning him more substantial work. It wasn’t earth-shattering journalism, but it was a step in the right direction.---The late afternoon sun bathed the quiet street as Jseph arrived at the scene of his latest assignment: a minor robbery at a local convenience store. His editor had insisted on covering it in person, claiming it would add a “human touch” to the story. Jseph wasn’t thrilled, but he was determined to make the best of it.As he jotted down notes outside the taped-off area, a familiar voice called out, “Taehyung-sunbae? Is that you?”He turned to see a petite woman with a sharp blazer and a professional yet warm smile. It took him a second to recognize her. “Wendy?”She nodded, her smile widening. “I thought that was you. It’s been a while!”Son Seungwan had been a fellow student at his university, studying media and communications. Though they weren’t close back then, she was well-known for her diligence and knack for storytelling, even as a student. Everyone called her Wendy.“What are you doing here?” Jseph asked, genuinely surprised.“I’m freelancing for a local news outlet,” she explained, holding up her press badge. “They sent me to cover this. And you?”“Same,” Jseph said with a wry grin. “Although I’m starting to think they just needed someone to fill space on the website.”Wendy laughed. “Well, it’s good to see you. Still as cynical as ever, I see.”“Some things never change,” he replied. “How’s freelancing treating you?”“It’s a grind, but it has its moments,” she admitted. “What about you? Still dreaming of writing that bestseller?”“Always,” Jseph said. “But for now, I’ll settle for keeping my editor off my back.”They exchanged numbers before parting ways, promising to catch up over coffee soon. As Jseph walked back to his car, he felt a rare flicker of excitement. Maybe reconnecting with Wendy could lead to something interesting, both professionally and personally.---Later that evening, Jseph was at home, trying to focus on drafting the robbery piece when his phone buzzed. It was an unfamiliar number.“Hello?”“Hyung!” came Bambam’s unmistakable voice, cheerful and loud. “It’s me, Bambam!”“Hey, Bambam,” Jseph said, leaning back in his chair. “What’s up?”“I was thinking about what you said during the interview,” Bambam began. “About your friend who owns the clothing store. What was it called? Staydium LA?”“Yeah, that’s the one,” Jseph said, intrigued. “Why?”“Well, Yugyeom and I were talking, and we think it might be cool to check it out,” Bambam said. “You know, see if there’s potential for some kind of collaboration.”Jseph raised an eyebrow. “You’re serious?”“Of course!” Bambam said. “We’re always looking for ways to get our name out there, and your friend’s store sounds like it has a good vibe.”“I’ll talk to him,” Jseph said. “When do you want to meet?”“Whenever works for him,” Bambam said. “Just let us know.”“Alright,” Jseph said. “I’ll set it up.”“Thanks, hyung! You’re the best,” Bambam said before hanging up.Jseph stared at his phone for a moment, a small smile tugging at his lips. BM was going to love this—or possibly hate it, depending on how chaotic the meeting turned out to be. Either way, it was going to be interesting.---The following day, Jseph stopped by the cafe to share the news. Somin was arranging flowers in a vase—a gift from another anonymous sender, the fourth one in three weeks—while Jiwoo cleaned up behind the counter. Yubin greeted Jseph politely, offering a quick bow and a "Taehyung-ssi, annyeonghaseyo. Would you like coffee?"“Just water, thanks,” Jseph replied, taking a seat near the counter.“You look suspiciously happy,” Jiwoo teased. “What’s going on?”“Bambam called last night,” Jseph said, leaning back. “He and Yugyeom want to meet BM. They’re thinking about a collaboration with Staydium LA.”Jiwoo’s eyes widened. “Seriously? That’s huge!”Somin looked up from her flowers. “What kind of collaboration?”“No idea,” Jseph admitted. “But they seemed interested. I’ll talk to BM later to set it up.”“Tell him to be careful,” Somin said.“Noted,” Jseph said, sipping the water Yubin brought him. “By the way, any guesses on who’s sending you these flowers?”Somin shrugged, feigning indifference. “Probably just a customer.”Jiwoo smirked. “Or a secret admirer.”“Please,” Somin said, rolling her eyes. “Who has time for that?”Yubin chimed in shyly, “Maybe it’s someone who wants to thank you for the cafe. You’re always so kind to the regulars.”Somin smiled at her. “Thanks, Yubin. But let’s not read too much into it.”Jseph chuckled. “Well, if it happens a 5th time, we’re definitely investigating.”“Deal,” Somin said, placing the flowers on the counter. “Now, go talk to BM oppa. Let’s see if he can handle Bambam and Yugyeom’s energy.”Jseph nodded, standing to leave. As he walked out, he couldn’t help but think how these little moments—sharing news, teasing each other—were what made their group so special.
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BM and Jseph, ever the observant pair, didn’t need anyone to tell them when something was off. Their natural instincts, honed by years of friendship and protective tendencies, kicked in almost simultaneously during an otherwise normal evening at the cafe.Jiwoo had been animatedly recounting how Yubin—or Dami, as she preferred—had found a charming bracelet among some misplaced items during inventory. “It was so cute,” Jiwoo said, laughing. “She was more excited than the kid who lost it!”While Jiwoo’s story brought laughter, BM’s gaze shifted to Somin. She had smiled at the right moments, but something about her posture—rigid and uneasy—betrayed her. He noticed her fingers lightly tapping on the table, a telltale sign she was deep in thought. Jseph, sitting across from her, cracked a joke to lighten the mood, but his sharp eyes flicked to Somin when her response was a hollow laugh.The two men exchanged a brief glance. It was an unspoken agreement: something was up.---Later, as they all began packing up for the night, BM approached Somin. “Hey, can I crash at your place for a bit? I think I left my charger there last time.”Somin looked startled but nodded. “Uh, sure. I’m pretty sure it’s still where you left it.”As they walked out, Jiwoo waved cheerily at them before heading in the opposite direction, Yubin trailing behind to catch her bus. Jseph, however, lingered, leaning casually against the counter.“What’s up?” Jiwoo asked, noticing his unusual hesitation.“Got a minute?” Jseph asked, his voice low but calm. “Let’s talk.”Jiwoo’s brows furrowed, but she nodded. “Sure. What’s on your mind?”Jseph pulled out a chair and gestured for her to sit. He took the seat across from her, folding his arms on the table. “You know Somin better than anyone,” he began. “Is there something going on with her?”Jiwoo’s expression shifted to concern. “What makes you ask that?”“She’s been… quiet. Not her usual quiet, but like she’s carrying something heavy,” Jseph explained. “And tonight, during your story, she wasn’t really there. BM noticed it too.”Jiwoo bit her lip, glancing toward the door Somin and BM had exited through. “I… don’t know. She hasn’t said anything to me. But now that you mention it, she’s been… distracted lately. I thought maybe it was just work stress or something.”“Maybe,” Jseph said, though his tone suggested he wasn’t entirely convinced. “But if you notice anything, let me or BM know, okay?”Jiwoo nodded, her eyes serious. “I will. Thanks for looking out for her, Taehyung-oppa.”---Meanwhile, BM and Somin had reached her apartment. As she unlocked the door, BM followed her inside, his usual easygoing demeanor slightly subdued.“You okay?” he asked, watching as she set her bag on the counter.“What? Yeah, I’m fine,” Somin said quickly, avoiding his gaze.BM crossed his arms, leaning against the wall. “You sure? You’ve been… off lately. And before you say it’s nothing, remember I’ve known you for ten years.”Somin hesitated, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sweater. “It’s just… stuff. Nothing to worry about.”“Stuff that’s got you zoning out and barely laughing at Jiwoo’s stories?” BM pressed gently. “Come on, Somin. You know you can talk to me.”She sighed, sitting on the couch and pulling a pillow into her lap. “I don’t even know where to start.”BM joined her, sitting on the armrest of the couch. “How about the beginning?”Somin glanced at him, her eyes heavy with something he couldn’t quite place. Fear? Exhaustion? Both? She opened her mouth to speak but stopped, shaking her head. “Not tonight. Please.”BM nodded, his expression softening. “Alright. But promise me you’ll let us help, okay? Whatever it is, you don’t have to deal with it alone.”Somin’s lips trembled into a small, grateful smile. “I promise.”BM reached over to ruffle her hair, a gesture that earned a faint laugh from her. “Good. Now, where’s that charger?”“On the desk,” she said, gesturing toward her bedroom.As BM retrieved it, he made a mental note to talk to Jseph later. Something was definitely wrong, and he wasn’t about to let Somin face it without her friends.
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The late afternoon sunlight streamed through the wide glass windows of Staydium LA, casting a warm glow over the racks of streetwear. BM adjusted a hoodie on display, his mind buzzing with a mix of anticipation and nerves. Bambam and Yugyeom were due to arrive any minute. While BM was confident in his vision for the store, meeting potential collaborators always came with a touch of uncertainty.Felix, stationed behind the counter, glanced up from the inventory tablet. "Hyung, you good? You’ve been fixing that same hoodie for the past five minutes."BM laughed, shaking his head. "Yeah, I’m good. Just... you know, hoping this meeting goes well."Chan smirked. "You’ll be fine. They’re here to collaborate, not to grade your interior design skills."Before BM could reply, the bell above the door chimed. Bambam and Yugyeom walked in, their confident strides immediately commanding attention. Bambam’s bright smile and Yugyeom’s relaxed demeanor made a striking combination."BM-ssi" Bambam greeted enthusiastically, extending his hand. "Thanks for having us."BM shook his hand, then Yugyeom’s. "Thanks for coming, guys. Welcome to Staydium LA.""This place is dope. You’ve got a great setup here.""Thanks," BM said, motioning toward a seating area near the back. "Let’s sit and talk."They settled into the cozy corner, the table between them stacked with sketches, lookbooks, and a few sample items from the store’s latest collection. BM took a deep breath, ready to dive in."So," he began, "Jseph mentioned you two were interested in a potential collaboration. I’d love to hear your thoughts."Bambam leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Yugyeom and I have been working on a few ideas for a dance and fashion crossover. We’ve been designing outfits that are functional for performances but also stylish enough for everyday wear. When Jseph told us about your store, we thought it might be a great fit."Yugyeom nodded. "We’re still pretty new to the scene, but we want to build something unique. Your brand already has that vibe."BM’s interest was piqued. "That’s definitely something I’ve been thinking about—combining style with practicality. Do you have any designs or concepts with you?"Bambam pulled out his tablet, swiping to a folder of sketches and photos. "These are some of the pieces we’ve been working on. They’re just prototypes for now, but we think they have potential."BM studied the designs, nodding thoughtfully. The pieces were sleek and modern, with a touch of streetwear edge. "These are solid," he said. "I can see how they’d work both on stage and off.""We were thinking," Bambam continued, "maybe we could do a limited collection together. Something that highlights both your brand and our style."BM leaned back, considering. "That could work. It’d be a good way to test the waters without diving in too deep. What about marketing? Do you have a plan for how to promote it?"Yugyeom spoke up. "We’ve been brainstorming ways to tie it into our performances. Maybe a live showcase where we debut the collection. We could also use social media to build hype beforehand."Chan, who had been quietly listening from the counter, chimed in. "Hyung, a live showcase sounds like a great idea. It’d give people a reason to come to the store, too."BM grinned. "See? That’s why I keep this guy around."Bambam laughed. "You’ve got a good team here.""Thanks," BM said. "Let’s talk logistics. Timing, budget, production—we need to figure all of that out. But overall, I think this has serious potential."They spent the next hour hashing out details, bouncing ideas off each other and scribbling notes on a shared notepad. By the end of the meeting, the initial nerves had faded, replaced by a sense of excitement and mutual respect.As Bambam and Yugyeom stood to leave, Bambam clapped BM on the shoulder. "This is going to be great, hyung. Thanks for giving us a chance.""Thank you for trusting me with your vision," BM replied. "Let’s make it happen."After they left, BM sank into the nearest chair, exhaling deeply. Chan walked over, handing him a water bottle."That went well," Chan said. "You’ve got yourself a cool project."BM nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yeah. Let’s hope it’s the start of something big."
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The cafe hummed with the usual Friday evening bustle. Somin and Jiwoo moved effortlessly behind the counter, serving regulars and chatting with the occasional newcomer. Dami was at the register, her cheerful demeanor earning smiles from the customers. It had been a good week, and the team was looking forward to winding down over the weekend.The chime of the doorbell announced a new group of arrivals. BM strolled in, followed by Chan and Felix. BM’s wide grin and easy demeanor instantly drew attention, but it was Felix, with his golden hair and sunshine-like aura, who seemed to turn the most heads.“Hey, guys!” BM greeted, waving at Somin, Jiwoo, and Jseph, who was seated at a table typing on his laptop.“Oppa! You brought company,” Jiwoo said, eyeing the two men behind him. “Channie, long time no see.”Chan flashed his signature dimples. “I know, noona. I’ve been busy with the store, but I couldn’t miss a chance to come here.”“And who’s this?” Somin asked, tilting her head at Felix.BM clapped Felix on the shoulder. “This is Felix. He’s our latest hire at Staydium LA and an all-around legend.”Felix ducked his head, a little shy under the attention. “Hi. It’s nice to meet you all. BM hyung talks about this place all the time.”“Does he?” Jiwoo said, smirking. “All good things, I hope.”“Of course,” Felix assured her, his deep voice catching everyone a little off guard.Jseph looked up from his laptop, adjusting his glasses. “You have a voice that doesn’t match your face. No offense, but I thought BM dragged in a high schooler for a second.”Felix laughed, clearly used to the remark. “I get that a lot. Nice to meet you too, hyung.”They found a corner table, and BM placed their order—a mix of drinks and snacks to keep the mood light. As they waited, Felix scanned the cafe, his expression thoughtful.“Something on your mind?” Chan asked, noticing his gaze.Felix hesitated, then said, “Aren’t they the models from Staydium LA’s first campaign?”BM nearly choked on his laugh. “What?”Felix gestured subtly toward Somin, Jiwoo, and Jseph. “I’m pretty sure I’ve seen them in the old photos on the website. You know, the ones where Jseph hyung looks like he’d rather be anywhere else?”Chan burst out laughing. “He’s not wrong. Those photos are iconic.”BM leaned back in his chair, grinning. “Guilty as charged. They were my emergency models when I first started the site. Somin and Jiwoo were amazing, by the way. Jseph… well, he’s Jseph.”Jseph raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. “Hey, I helped. Just don’t ask me to do it again.”Felix looked impressed. “No wonder the photos had such good energy. They looked so natural.”“Don’t let them hear that,” BM said. “They’ll never let me live it down.”Just then, Somin approached their table with their drinks. “Here you go. Lattes for BM and Chan, and an iced Americano for Felix.” She paused, eyeing Felix curiously. “Why do I feel like you were just talking about me?”Felix’s eyes widened slightly, but BM stepped in smoothly. “He’s just impressed with how much of a multitasking queen you are, Somin.”“Uh-huh,” Somin said, clearly unconvinced but letting it slide. “Enjoy, guys.”As she walked away, Felix exhaled in relief. “She’s sharp. I see why you come here so often, hyung.”“You have no idea,” BM said, taking a sip of his latte.The conversation shifted to business updates, with Chan and BM discussing sales trends and upcoming projects. Felix chimed in occasionally, his fresh perspective offering valuable insights. Despite the serious topics, the atmosphere remained lighthearted, filled with jokes and easy banter.As they wrapped up their drinks, Jiwoo came over to join them. “You guys sticking around?” she asked.BM shook his head. “Not today. Got a ton of stuff to prep for next week. But we’ll be back.”Felix stood, bowing slightly. “It was great meeting you all. Thanks for the warm welcome.”“Come by anytime,” Jiwoo said, smiling warmly. “You’re officially part of the extended family now.”“Don’t forget to tell Jseph hyung how cool he looked in those photos,” Chan teased, earning a glare from Jseph.As they left the cafe, Felix turned to BM. “Hyung, your friends are awesome.”BM grinned. “I know. And now they’re your friends too.”Felix nodded, feeling a little more at home in his new city. For the first time since starting at Staydium LA, he realized he wasn’t just joining a team—he was becoming part of something bigger.
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It was a quiet afternoon at the café, the kind of calm that gave Jiwoo enough space to strike up a casual conversation with Dami while organizing the pastry display.“How are your classes going, Dami?” Jiwoo asked, placing the last croissant neatly on the tray.Dami looked up from where she was wiping down the counter. “Pretty good! My professor gave me a lot of feedback on my latest comic draft. Apparently, I’m getting better at panel layouts but still need to work on dynamic poses.”Jiwoo nodded thoughtfully. “That sounds like a lot of work. Do you draw here sometimes when it’s slow?”“Sometimes,” Dami admitted with a shy smile. “But I don’t want to get in trouble, so only when it’s really quiet.”Jiwoo chuckled. “If it inspires you, I don’t think Somin or I would mind. Just don’t let the customers see you ignoring them!”“Of course not!” Dami said quickly, looking almost scandalized at the idea.Just then, the café door jingled as Jseph walked in, holding his bag slung over one shoulder. He gave a lazy wave as he approached the counter.“Afternoon, ladies.”“Hey, oppa,” Jiwoo greeted warmly. “You’re here early. Isn’t your networking event later today?”Jseph shrugged. “Thought I’d grab a coffee and some peace before I dive into a room full of people exchanging business cards like it’s a competitive sport.”Dami giggled at the mental image, while Jiwoo smirked. “It’s not that bad, is it?”“You haven’t seen the kind of chaos I have,” Jseph replied, shuddering dramatically. “Once, I saw a guy fumble so badly, he dropped his card into someone’s soup. The soup guy still kept the card, though. Who does that?”Jiwoo laughed. “That’s just good networking etiquette, oppa. Maybe you’ll run into someone interesting today?”“Doubt it,” Jseph muttered, though a small smile tugged at his lips.---Jseph sat at a small table near the back of the networking event, nursing a cup of lukewarm coffee and trying not to yawn. The room buzzed with chatter as journalists, writers, and various media professionals exchanged stories, business cards, and promises of future collaborations. He wasn’t particularly in the mood for small talk, but his editor had insisted he attend, claiming it was good for his "professional development."He glanced around the room, spotting clusters of people deep in conversation, but no one he felt particularly inclined to approach. Just as he contemplated sneaking out early, a familiar voice cut through the din.“Taehyung-sunbae! Twice in one month—are you stalking me?”He turned to see Wendy, her ever-present warm smile lighting up her face. She looked effortlessly professional in a tailored blazer, her press badge hanging neatly from her pocket.“Wendy,” Jseph greeted, his lips curling into a genuine smile. “You know, if I were stalking you, I’d probably be doing a terrible job considering how easily you found me.”She laughed, pulling out the chair across from him without asking. “Mind if I join you? These things are so much better with company.”“Be my guest,” he replied, gesturing to the seat. “What brings you here? Another freelance assignment?”“Partly,” she admitted, setting her coffee down. “But mostly to network. Freelancing’s all about who you know, right? What about you? Did your editor drag you here, too?”“Pretty much,” Jseph said, leaning back in his chair. “Apparently, I need to ‘broaden my horizons.’”Wendy chuckled. “Classic editor advice. So, how’s it going? Have you broadened them yet?”“Not really,” he admitted. “But seeing a familiar face helps.”“Aw, you’re just saying that to be nice,” she teased, but her tone softened as she added, “It’s good to see you, though. Feels like it’s been forever since university.”“Yeah,” Jseph agreed, his expression briefly thoughtful. “Back then, I wouldn’t have pegged either of us for this kind of gig.”“Speak for yourself,” Wendy said with a grin. “I always knew I’d end up in media. Though I’ll admit, freelancing wasn’t exactly the dream.”“What was?” Jseph asked, genuinely curious.Wendy tilted her head, thinking for a moment. “Hosting my own show, maybe? Something where I could tell stories that matter. And you?”“You already know. A bestseller” Jseph said with a faint smile. “But for now, I’m stuck chasing minor stories and trying to pay the bills.”“Well, minor stories can lead to major ones,” Wendy pointed out. “You never know what might come of it.”“Optimistic as ever,” Jseph remarked, shaking his head. “How do you manage that?”“Easy,” she said with a wink. “I don’t hang out with cynical people too often.”“Touché,” he said, chuckling.They fell into a comfortable rhythm, reminiscing about their university days and swapping stories about their freelancing adventures. Wendy shared a particularly amusing tale about a typo in one of her articles that had accidentally declared a local bakery as haunted, much to the owner’s dismay—and eventual amusement when it brought in curious customers.Jseph laughed, shaking his head. “That’s a new one. I’ve had my share of screw-ups, but nothing that dramatic.”“Give it time,” Wendy said with a smirk. “The universe has a way of keeping us humble.”The conversation drifted to lighter topics—favorite books, upcoming projects, and mutual acquaintances from their university days. By the time the event began to wind down, Jseph found himself genuinely glad he’d stayed.“Well,” Wendy said, standing and smoothing out her blazer, “I should probably make the rounds before it’s too late. But this was nice.”“Yeah, it was,” Jseph agreed, rising to his feet. “Let’s not wait another decade before the next conversation.”“Deal,” she said, holding out her hand. “Take care, sunbae.”He shook her hand, a small smile lingering on his face as she walked off into the crowd. For the first time in a while, Jseph left the event feeling a little more optimistic about his profession—and maybe even about his own prospects.---Back at the café, Jiwoo and Dami were locking up for the night when Jiwoo’s phone buzzed with a message from Jseph.Taehyung: Met someone interesting after all. You were right. Don’t gloat.Jiwoo smirked as she typed back.Jiwoo: I don’t need to gloat, oppa. Your sudden optimism is reward enough.Dami peeked over Jiwoo’s shoulder curiously. “Is that Jseph oppa?”“Yeah,” Jiwoo said with a mischievous smile. “Sounds like his networking event wasn’t a total disaster.”Dami grinned. “Good for him. He deserves it.”Jiwoo nodded in agreement, locking the café door as they stepped out into the cool night air. “He really does.”
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BM and Chan arrived at Yugyeom’s studio just as the late afternoon sun cast a warm glow across the room. The studio was buzzing with creative energy, with mood boards, fabric swatches, and sketches scattered across every available surface. Bambam and Yugyeom stood near a whiteboard, discussing something animatedly, but they paused to greet their guests.“There they are!” Bambam called out, waving them over. “Took you long enough.”BM grinned. “Traffic. You know how it is.”Chan raised a hand in greeting, always the calm one. “Ready to get this show on the road?”“Absolutely,” Yugyeom said, gesturing for them to sit around the large table in the center of the room. “We’ve been going over some ideas and potential schedules. Let’s get into it.”As they settled in, Bambam pulled up a digital presentation on a nearby monitor. “Okay, so we’ve narrowed down the designs to five core pieces for the initial drop. Two tops, a jacket, a pair of joggers, and an accessory—probably a cap or bag.”BM leaned forward, inspecting the sketches on the screen. The designs were sleek, combining streetwear’s edgy aesthetics with functional elements inspired by dancewear.“These are solid,” BM said, nodding in approval. “But let’s talk budget. What are we looking at for production?”“That’s where things get tricky,” Yugyeom admitted. “We want to keep the quality high, but that means costs are going to creep up. We’ve mapped out a few scenarios based on different production volumes.”Bambam clicked through a few slides, showing charts and figures. “If we keep the initial run small, we’ll stay within budget, but we’ll need to rely heavily on pre-orders to gauge interest.”Chan, ever the strategist, tapped his chin thoughtfully. “What about the campaign? Have you factored in marketing costs?”“Not entirely,” Bambam admitted. “That’s why we’re here—to figure out how we can stretch the budget without compromising on quality.”BM glanced at Chan, who nodded slightly. “Alright. Let’s tackle this piece by piece. First, the designs are great, but are there any elements we can simplify to bring costs down without losing the essence of the collection?”Yugyeom nodded, pulling out a notebook filled with detailed notes. “There are some embellishments we could tone down. The stitching details on the jacket, for example. It’ll still look high-quality, but it’ll be less labor-intensive.”“Good,” BM said. “Now, about the campaign. Are we going for professional models, or are we…” he hesitated, smirking slightly, “dragging our friends into this again?”Bambam chuckled. “Ideally, professionals. But if it comes down to cutting costs, I have a couple of friends with modeling experience who might be willing to help.”“And I could talk to my team as well,” Chan added. “We’ve worked with a few up-and-comers who might fit the vibe of the collection.”BM sighed, leaning back in his chair. “I’ll keep Somin and Jiwoo in mind as a last resort. They did great last time, but I’m not sure I can convince them to do it again. Jseph…” He trailed off, laughing. “Let’s just say he’d rather walk barefoot over hot coals.”“Fair enough,” Yugyeom said, chuckling. “But we should prioritize professionals if we can afford it. It’ll add legitimacy to the brand.”The group spent the next hour hashing out the finer details. They settled on a tentative schedule: finalize designs within the week, start sourcing materials the next, and aim for a production run within two months. The marketing campaign would kick off shortly after, with a focus on social media and guerrilla-style promotions to keep costs low but impactful.As the meeting wrapped up, Bambam leaned back with a satisfied grin. “This is going to be huge. Thanks for trusting us with this, BM-ssi”“The trust goes both ways,” BM replied. “This collaboration could be the start of something big for all of us.”Yugyeom nodded earnestly. “Here’s to making it happen.”As they packed up, Chan clapped BM on the shoulder. “You’re taking the lead on talking to potential models, right?”BM groaned dramatically. “Of course. Why do I feel like I’m about to owe a lot of people favors?”Bambam grinned. “Because you are. Welcome to the club.”The group laughed as they stepped out into the cool evening air, the energy of the meeting still buzzing between them. The collaboration was officially underway, and the possibilities felt endless.
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It was a quiet evening as Jseph and BM walked to the café. The plan was simple: grab Jiwoo and Somin after their shift and head to Somin’s apartment for a night of drinks and relaxation. Somin had insisted on hosting this week, promising a cozy space and her homemade snacks.“Feels like we haven’t done this in forever,” Jseph said, adjusting his jacket against the chill.BM nodded. “Yeah, we’ve all been crazy busy. It'll be good to catch up without talking about work for once.”They reached the café just as Jiwoo and Somin were locking up. Jiwoo waved as they approached, her usual bright smile lighting up the evening. “Perfect timing, oppas. We’re ready to go.”Somin gave them a small wave, clutching her bag tightly. BM noticed her tired eyes but decided not to comment. They set off together, the short walk filled with light chatter about their week.When they arrived at Somin’s apartment building, the mood shifted instantly. Sitting just outside her door was a neatly wrapped gift box. Somin froze in her tracks, her entire body tensing. Her breath hitched audibly, and her hands started trembling.“What’s wrong?” Jiwoo asked, stepping closer to her friend.Somin shook her head, unable to speak. Jseph reached out and gently touched her shoulder. “Somin-ah, are you okay?”The moment his hand landed, Somin jumped and let out a startled gasp. Jseph quickly raised his hands in the air, a gesture of reassurance to show he wouldn’t touch her further. Her wide, tear-filled eyes darted to Jseph, then back to the package. She took a shaky step back, hugging herself tightly.“Somin?” BM’s voice was firm but kind. He moved closer, crouching slightly to meet her eye level. “What’s going on?”And then, the dam broke. Somin’s tears spilled over as she began sobbing uncontrollably. “I… I can’t anymore,” she whispered between ragged breaths. “I can’t keep pretending it’s nothing.”BM exchanged a serious look with Jseph, whose expression turned grim. “Let’s get inside first,” BM said softly. “Come on, Somin. We’re here.”---Inside the apartment, the atmosphere was heavy. Somin sat on the couch, clutching a pillow tightly to her chest. Jiwoo brought her a glass of water, sitting beside her while BM and Jseph took the chairs opposite. The unopened gift box sat ominously on the coffee table.Somin’s hands trembled as she set the glass down. “It’s not just flowers,” she began quietly. “It started with the bouquet a few weeks ago. I thought it was a mistake or some harmless gesture. But then… it kept happening.”“What else?” Jseph asked gently, leaning forward.“A chocolate box. A postcard with no signature. Accessories… hairpins, earrings, small things,” Somin listed, her voice trembling. “I… I’ve been leaving them in the café’s lost-and-found, hoping whoever it was would stop. But they didn’t.”Jiwoo’s face hardened. “You didn’t tell me or Dami?”“It always happened when neither of you were around,” Somin said, her eyes pleading. “And I didn’t want to worry you. I thought I could handle it.”“Why not just throw them away?” BM asked, though his tone was more curious than accusatory.“Because I…” Somin hesitated, her voice breaking. “I was scared it might make them angry. Whoever is doing this… they’re persistent. And now…” She gestured toward the gift box. “They’ve escalated. The last thing was sent to my home. A plush bear. I thought it was over, but now this…”The room fell silent as the gravity of her words sank in.“Did you try finding out who’s sending them?” Jiwoo asked after a moment.Somin nodded. “I contacted the delivery companies, but they all said they couldn’t disclose customer information.”Jseph’s jaw tightened, his usual laid-back demeanor replaced with a rare intensity. “That’s not okay. We need to take this seriously.”“We will,” BM said firmly, his eyes locked on Somin. “From now on, you’re not walking home alone. Jseph and I will take turns escorting you. Every single day.”Jseph nodded, his tone matching BM’s. “No exceptions, Somin. We’re not letting you deal with this by yourself.”Somin’s eyes filled with fresh tears. “I don’t want to be a burden…”“You’re not,” BM interrupted. “We’re your friends. This isn’t up for debate.”Jiwoo placed a comforting hand on Somin’s knee. “And tomorrow, we’re going to the police. You shouldn’t have to deal with this alone.”“Jiwoo’s right,” Jseph added. “Even if they can’t do much immediately, it’s important to document everything. This is serious, Somin.”BM glanced back at the package, his expression hardening. “I’ll take this straight to the police tomorrow,” he said. “This is evidence.”Somin looked at each of them, their determined faces filling her with a sense of safety she hadn’t felt in weeks. Finally, she nodded. “Okay. Thank you.”“We’ve got you,” BM said with a reassuring smile. “No matter what happens, you’re not alone in this.”Jiwoo leaned closer, wrapping an arm around Somin’s shoulders. "And don’t even think about keeping anything else to yourself. We’re here for you," she said firmly, offering a comforting squeeze. She paused for a moment before adding softly, "If you ever want me to stay with you or you need a change of scenery, just say the word. We can crash at my place, no problem."Somin shook her head, managing a small, apologetic smile. "Thank you, Jiwoo, but I need to stay here. It’s my home. If I leave, it feels like I’m letting this fear win, and I can’t do that." She sighed deeply, her voice tinged with both gratitude and exhaustion. "I appreciate it more than you know, but I have to hold on to some sense of normalcy, and that includes staying at the café. I just don’t want to inconvenience anyone more than I already have."Jseph, usually the one to diffuse tension with humor, stayed quiet for a moment before speaking, his voice steady and resolute. “We’ll figure out who’s behind this, I promise.”As Somin wiped her tears, she finally let herself believe them. For the first time in weeks, she didn’t feel alone. And for the first time, she felt like there was a way out of the fear that had gripped her.
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The atmosphere was heavy as Somin sat in the backseat of BM’s car, staring out at the blur of city lights. Beside her, Jseph scrolled through his phone, quietly reading articles about stalking and anonymous harassment. BM’s hands tightened on the steering wheel, his usual lighthearted demeanor replaced by a tense determination.“Are you sure about this?” Somin asked, her voice barely above a whisper. “What if they think I’m overreacting?”BM glanced at her in the rearview mirror. “Somin, this isn’t overreacting. This is someone crossing boundaries. It’s serious.”“He’s right,” Jseph added, his tone uncharacteristically firm. “We’re not leaving this alone. And neither should you.”Somin nodded, but her hands twisted nervously in her lap. She hated the idea of being a burden, of pulling her friends into something that might not even be solvable. But the weight of the past weeks—the flowers, the gifts, the ominous escalation—had become too much to bear alone.---The police station was quieter than Somin had expected, with only a handful of officers and a few civilians milling about. The fluorescent lights cast a sterile glow over the room, and the faint hum of computers filled the air. BM led the way to the front desk, his broad shoulders squared with purpose.“We need to file a report,” he said to the officer behind the desk.The officer, a middle-aged man with tired eyes, looked up and gave a polite nod. “What’s the issue?”Somin stepped forward hesitantly, her voice shaky. “I’ve been receiving anonymous gifts for weeks. At first, it was at my workplace, but now they’ve started coming to my home.”The officer’s expression softened slightly as he gestured for them to follow him to a side room. They sat at a small table as he pulled out a notepad. “Can you describe the gifts?”Somin recounted everything: the flowers, the chocolate box, the accessories, the plush bear. She explained how the deliveries came from various services, all of which refused to disclose the sender’s identity. Her voice wavered as she spoke, and BM’s hand twitched as if he wanted to reach out but held back to give her space.“Have you noticed anyone suspicious around your workplace or home?” the officer asked.Somin shook her head. “No. I… I’ve been trying to pay attention, but nothing seems out of place."The officer scribbled in his notepad. “Unfortunately, without a clear lead or evidence of a direct threat, it’s challenging for us to act. However, I’ll file this report and mark it for follow-up. If anything escalates further, contact us immediately.”“That’s it?” BM asked, his voice sharp with frustration. “She’s scared out of her mind, and all you can do is file a report?”The officer met BM’s glare calmly. “I understand your frustration, but we’re limited by what the law allows. We’ll do what we can.”BM opened his mouth to argue, but Jseph placed a hand on his arm. “Let’s focus on keeping Somin safe for now,” he said quietly.Somin’s hands tightened around her bag. She felt like the walls were closing in. The officer’s words, though polite, left her feeling helpless. “Thank you,” she managed to say, her voice barely audible.---Back at Somin’s apartment, the mood was somber. Jiwoo had arrived to meet them, her expression a mix of worry and determination. She immediately went to Somin, wrapping her in a tight hug.“What did they say?” Jiwoo asked.“Not much,” BM muttered, his frustration still simmering. “They’ll file the report, but that’s about it.”“So, we’re on our own,” Jiwoo said, her lips pressing into a thin line.“Not entirely,” Jseph interjected. “We can still do something. Cameras, for one. Maybe we’ll catch this creep in the act.”BM nodded. “I’ll pick up some tomorrow and help install them.”“And we’re sticking to the schedule,” Jseph added firmly, exchanging a serious look with BM. “You’re not walking alone, Somin. Not to work, not home, not anywhere.” BM gave a determined nod of agreement, his protective stance leaving no room for argument.Somin’s eyes filled with tears again. “I… I don’t know what I’d do without you guys.”“You’ll never have to find out,” Jiwoo said firmly.---
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Somin’s life had never felt this structured before. Normally, her days at the café were filled with spontaneous interactions with customers, playful banter with Jiwoo, and the occasional mishap in the kitchen. But now, things had changed. The unspoken tension that loomed over her life dictated a new set of rules, ones that everyone followed without question.Jiwoo had been the first to bring it up at work. “Dami, Somin’s been really overwhelmed with all the administrative stuff lately,” she had said casually as they restocked the pastry display. “She’s thinking about focusing more on inventory and numbers instead of the front counter.”Dami, ever perceptive, had simply nodded. “Makes sense. We’ve been getting busier, and someone needs to keep an eye on that. I don’t mind handling more of the customer side.”Somin had been grateful for the easy acceptance. She didn’t want to bring unnecessary attention to herself, and this arrangement made it easier to avoid unnecessary risks. From now on, she’d stay in the office as much as possible, handling orders, bookkeeping, and anything else that kept her occupied behind the scenes.Across town, BM had made his own changes. Closing the store had always been his thing. After shutting down for the night, he’d linger inside, fixing displays, checking stock, and sometimes just enjoying the quiet. But now, he left as soon as he locked the doors, making sure he wasn’t the last one out. Chan had been surprised the first time BM had sent him and Felix home early, insisting that he didn’t need any help closing up.“You good, hyung?” Chan had asked, raising an eyebrow.“Yeah,” BM had answered easily. “Just trying to keep a better schedule.”Felix had tilted his head. “Is this a new thing? You always stay late.”BM had shrugged, keeping it nonchalant. “New year, new habits.” He wasn’t about to explain anything further. Felix didn’t need to know.Meanwhile, Jseph had started wrapping up work earlier than usual. His job as a freelance reporter didn’t come with fixed hours, but he made sure he wasn’t staying too late, especially on the days it was his turn to pick up Somin. The arrangement had been simple enough: they rotated who drove her home, keeping a flexible schedule depending on who was available. Jiwoo didn’t have a car, so she mostly handled the café’s closing shift with Dami, leaving BM and Jseph to coordinate transportation.Somin had protested at first. “You don’t all have to babysit me,” she had said, crossing her arms.“You’re right, we don’t,” BM had replied smoothly. “We just happen to enjoy chauffeuring you around.”“Yeah, and you always complain about being too tired to drive yourself,” Jseph had added with a smirk.Jiwoo had been the most blunt. “Shut up and let us do this, Somin.”And so, a schedule was born. On most nights, BM would drive her home since his store was closest to the café. On the days he was tied up, Jseph took over. If neither could make it, they figured something out—Jiwoo calling a cab if needed, or in rare cases, Somin driving herself under strict instructions to text the group when she arrived.The routine was meant to keep things feeling normal, to give Somin some sense of control while making sure she wasn’t alone. And for the most part, it worked. The café continued running smoothly, Staydium operated as usual, and their weekly meetups remained intact. No one outside their circle suspected a thing.But that didn’t mean the unease had disappeared. The feeling of being watched still lingered in the back of Somin’s mind. The unwanted gifts had stopped for now, but the silence was almost worse. It felt like waiting for a storm to hit.And none of them had any idea when it would.For now, they could only keep moving forward, one day at a time.