Work Text
The morning broke gently over the small village, its stillness wrapped in the soft glow of the rising sun. The village was so tiny it didn’t even have a name—just a scattering of humble cottages nestled between the hills, barely visible from the main road. A thin mist clung to the earth, rolling like a blanket over the cobblestone streets and the few trees that dotted the landscape. The air was cool and fresh, carrying the earthy scent of dew-kissed grass and the distant hum of life stirring in the quiet. And then, just as the last traces of the night faded into the daylight, the rooster crowed, its call sharp and strong, announcing the arrival of the new day.Beomgyu lay tangled in his blankets, his brownish-orange hair falling messily around his face as he tossed and turned. The early morning light filtered through the curtains, but he buried his head deeper into the pillow, desperately hoping for just five more minutes of sleep. His body was warm and cosy, the kind of comfort that made the idea of leaving the bed feel impossible. With a groggy grunt, he shifted again, but sleep wasn’t coming back easily—his limbs felt heavy, and his mind foggy, like a haze that wouldn’t clear.His eyes fluttered open a crack, only to snap wide in realisation. Shit. His stomach dropped as the familiar panic set in. He shot up in bed, eyes darting around as if expecting time itself to slow down for him. He glanced at the clock, and his heart skipped a beat. It was late. Too late.“Fuck, Mr. Lee is totally gonna yell at me!!!” Beomgyu muttered, rubbing his face with both hands, his voice still thick with sleep and dread. His mind raced as he scrambled to get out of bed, fumbling for his clothes and cursing under his breath. He could already hear Mr. Lee’s sharp voice in his head, imagining the disappointed look he'd get as he rushed into work, already late.Beomgyu rushed downstairs, his feet pounding against the wooden steps as he tried to make up for lost time. His mind was a blur, focusing solely on getting out the door and salvaging whatever he could of his morning routine. As he rounded the corner to the living room, however, he skidded to a halt. His eyes widened in shock.There, sitting on his couch and chatting away as if it were the most normal thing in the world, were some of his neighbours. Old Mrs. Choi from the corner, a couple of the kids from a few houses down, and even Mr. Kim, who usually only popped by to say hello every few days. The sight was so out of place it almost felt like a dream, but there they were—talking and laughing like it was a community gathering.Beomgyu blinked, his grogginess giving way to a rush of embarrassment and confusion. “GET OUT OF MY HOUSE!!!” he yelled, his voice still thick with sleep, but full of panic. “I know we're friendly neighbours, BUT YOU JUST CANNOT COME INTO MY HOUSE LIKE THIS!!!”The neighbours stared at him, wide-eyed, a mix of surprise and awkwardness filling the room. Without waiting for any responses, Beomgyu rushed past them, making a beeline for his dressing room to get ready for work.In his haste though, he didn’t notice the small plushie sitting in the middle of the floor. His foot caught on it and with a startled yelp, he tumbled forward, hitting the ground with a painful thud. He groaned, rubbing his sore knee, his body momentarily still as he took in the sight of the plushie."Bamgeut. What are you doing here?!" Beomgyu winced, his voice a mix of pain and frustration. "I thought I put you upstairs…not in the dressing room..." He grabbed the plushie, clutching it to his chest as if it might offer him some comfort in the chaos. The soft, squishy plushie seemed to stare back at him innocently, completely unaware of the storm Beomgyu was trying to navigate. *ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚ Beomgyu finally managed to pull himself together, throwing on his clothes in a hurried but efficient manner. He grabbed his bag, glancing at the clock once again with a mix of frustration and disbelief. I need to get out of here immediately, he thought, the pressure mounting with every passing second. He couldn’t afford to waste any more time.As he stormed past the living room, he couldn't help but glance at the neighbours who were still lounging around in his house, chatting among themselves as if they had all the time in the world. They waved at him cheerfully as he passed, none of them looking the slightest bit fazed.It sent a chill down Beomgyu’s spine. This village was known for being friendly, for being open, but this? This felt... too much. His house was supposed to be his sanctuary, his private space, not a communal hangout. It was a nice gesture that people trusted each other, but this crossed a line.It’s creepy, Beomgyu thought, his frustration bubbling up again. Do they not realise the concept of privacy?He mulled over the idea of doing something about it, maybe even filing a complaint to the guards. It seemed like a drastic step, especially in a neighbourhood where everyone knew each other's name but he couldn’t stand the idea of this happening again. Even if it was a friendly village, he didn’t want his space invaded like this—no matter how well-meaning the neighbours were.Beomgyu gritted his teeth, stepping out the door and into the fresh morning air. I’ll deal with this later, he promised himself. He didn’t have the time to deal with it now. He had to get to work but the thought of those nosy neighbours still lingered in his mind, gnawing at him as he walked down the path leading out of his house.Beomgyu’s steps quickened as he rushed down the village’s winding cobblestone path. His mind was still reeling from the strange morning—neighbours in his house, tripping over a plushie, and now running late for work. He was already regretting not sleeping earlier or even getting up earlier, but then again, last night had been... well, last night.He couldn't help but think about the comic books he'd stayed up reading until the late hours. The latest release of his favourite comic book series, ppulbatu, had dropped just the day before and he’d been so absorbed in it, unable to put it down. He'd told himself he’d just read a few chapters before bed but before he knew it, hours had passed and he had barely made it under the covers.I shouldn’t blame myself for it. They’re just so good, Beomgyu thought with a sigh, a small smile tugging at his lips. The newest release... it was totally worth it.But now, that lingering feeling of dread at how late he was kept him moving. He had to make up for lost time, especially since he was on his way to work at the cafe.By the time he reached the quaint little cafe, he barely noticed the soft morning breeze or the familiar scent of fresh coffee brewing inside. He climbed the small flight of stairs with a rush, each step bringing him closer to the inevitable scolding he would probably get from Mr. Lee for being late."Mr. Lee, I’m here!!!" Beomgyu called out, his voice a little breathless from the dash. He swung the door open with one hand, the other adjusting his bag on his shoulder. He couldn’t help but feel a bit sheepish, hoping Mr Lee wouldn’t be too upset.Mr. Lee glanced at the clock on the wall, his eyes narrowing slightly as he noted the time. He turned his gaze toward Beomgyu, who had just rushed in, breathless and slightly dishevelled. A small smirk tugged at the corner of his lips as he folded his arms across his chest."I see that you managed to come bang on time today," he said, his voice dripping with a mix of sarcasm and amusement. The words hung in the air, heavy with the implication that this was a rare sight indeed.Beomgyu, still catching his breath, straightened up and flashed Mr. Lee a grin. "Yeah, I told you I wouldn't be late this time!!!" He puffed out his chest with a proud look on his face. "Aren't you proud of me?" he asked, half-teasing and half-hopeful as if waiting for some recognition for actually managing to make it on time for once.Mr. Lee raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a small, knowing smile. "I am glad you were able to make it on time," he said, his voice light, "but it’s far too obvious you slept in again." He chuckled softly, his eyes scanning Beomgyu’s dishevelled appearance. "You're not even wearing your shoes," he added, his tone teasing as he nodded toward Beomgyu’s bare feet.Beomgyu shifted uncomfortably, his face flushing slightly. "Ummm... this..." he stammered, trying to salvage some dignity. "Well, apparently the 'no shoes' look is really in right now. You didn’t know?" He gave a nervous grin, hoping his attempt at humour would distract from his obvious mistake.Mr. Lee raised an eyebrow and let out a small chuckle. "Well, thank you for 'coming on time without shoes,'" he said, his voice dry but amused. "I suppose we should be able to start work as scheduled." He gestured toward the back. "Go and put on an apron. There’s a checklist of things to make in the kitchen. It’s for a catering order to the Jung family, which I'll need you to deliver afterwards. Other than that, you can bake the usuals for the café. We have a busy day ahead of us, Beomgyu."Beomgyu flashed a determined smile, trying to hide his earlier awkwardness. "Yeah, leave it to me, Mr. Lee !!!" he said, his voice filled with renewed confidence. With that, he hurried off toward the kitchen, ready to dive into the busy day ahead.Beomgyu descended the two sets of stairs with quick, practised steps, the soft thud of his bare feet against the wooden floor echoing in the quiet kitchen. He grabbed an apron from the hook by the door, tying it around his slim waist as he moved to the wooden cabinet. Inside, he found the wooden clipboard with an attached checklist, its edges slightly worn from repeated use.Beomgyu unfolded the paper and read the list aloud to himself, his eyes scanning each item:
2 strawberry cakes
2 cheesecakes
3 sugar crepes
3 cheese crepes
3 chocolate crepes
12 glazed doughnuts
12 strawberry doughnuts
He mentally noted each task, already feeling the rush of getting everything prepared. With a determined nod to himself, he set to work. *ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚ Beomgyu hummed softly to himself as he worked, the rhythmic sound of mixing batter and the comforting warmth of the oven filling the air. His mind was lost in the familiar motions, the scent of sugar and vanilla wrapping around him like a warm hug. The kitchen was his sanctuary and he was in his element.That is, until—ow! He hissed, pulling his finger back from the oven rack. The sharp sting made his whole body jolt and he quickly sucked his finger into his mouth.“Great…” he muttered, shaking his hand in the air like it would somehow make the pain go away. He spun around in search of a band-aid, his eyes scanning the shelves and drawers.As he opened the first drawer, ready to rummage for what he needed, he froze. The door to the kitchen creaked open, and there, standing in the doorway was none other than—“Yeonjun !!!” Beomgyu exclaimed, completely caught off guard. His face flushed, a mix of surprise and mild embarrassment at being caught mid-panic. “What are you doing here?”Yeonjun’s brow furrowed as he took in the sight of Beomgyu holding his finger with a wince. "Are you alright?" he asked, his voice laced with concern. His foxy eyes lingered on Beomgyu’s slightly reddened finger, the pain clearly written across his face.Beomgyu’s voice faltered as he looked at Yeonjun, a bit flustered. "Yeonjun... d... did you see what happened?" he stammered, his face flushing even more. He glanced down at his hand, half-expecting Yeonjun to laugh at his clumsiness.Yeonjun ran a hand through his blonde hair, the strands catching the light as he sighed. "Did I see it? Of course I saw. These eyes are not just for display," he teased with a smirk. He shook his head, his blonde locks falling messily over his forehead as he crossed his arms. "This is exactly why I can't leave the kitchen. I leave for five minutes to grab some ingredients and 'Mr. Clutz' over here breaks plates, slips on the ground, and today, he manages to burn his finger."Beomgyu sighed and gave Yeonjun a teasing look, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Yes, yes, 'Mom Yeonjun,'" he muttered, crossing his arms and smirking. "Always saving me from myself, huh?" He gave his finger another quick glance, still a bit sheepish about the whole situation.Yeonjun raised an eyebrow, his blonde hair slightly tousled as he looked at Beomgyu with a bemused expression. "When will you get in touch with your delicate side?" he teased, shaking his head. Then, without waiting for a response, he set the flour aside and stepped closer. "Let me see." He carefully examined Beomgyu’s burned finger, his hands surprisingly gentle as he took out the first aid kit. With practised movements, he wrapped the thin cloth around the injury, his brow furrowing slightly as he focused on the task. "There," he said quietly, offering a reassuring smile. "Better now?"Beomgyu looked down at his finger, now wrapped neatly in the cloth and gave Yeonjun a small smile. "Yes, thanks, Yeonjun," he said, his voice soft but grateful. The warmth of Yeonjun’s care lingered even after he pulled away and Beomgyu couldn’t help but feel a little embarrassed by how clumsy he’d been. Yeonjun's eyes widened as he looked down at Beomgyu's bare feet. "W—wait! You don't even have your shoes on?!" he exclaimed, exasperated. "You...," he sighed heavily, running a hand through his blonde hair before grunting in frustration. Without saying another word, he quickly kicked off his own shoes and tossed them toward Beomgyu. "Here, at least put these on. You're going to slip and fall otherwise."Beomgyu blinked in surprise, staring down at the shoes now in front of him. He couldn't help but chuckle a little at Yeonjun’s flustered expression, but quickly slid his feet into the shoes. "Thanks, Yeonjun. You're always looking out for me," he muttered, feeling a little sheepish but secretly grateful for the unexpected kindness.Yeonjun crossed his arms, a serious expression on his face as he watched Beomgyu slip his feet into the shoes. “Because I’m not okay with it,” he said, his tone firm. “You always get hurt... or hurt the kitchen and break stuff.” He sighed deeply as if the mere thought of it exhausted him. “So, for my sake, please keep them on.”Beomgyu looked up at him, a little surprised at the weight of Yeonjun’s words. The sincerity in his voice made Beomgyu nod without hesitation, his smile softening. “Got it, Yeonjun. I’ll try to be more careful. Thank you for caring about me.”Yeonjun crossed his arms, his brows furrowing as he looked at Beomgyu with a small sigh. "Care? I care about the kitchen, alright?" His voice softened just a bit, betraying his true feelings as he motioned to the list. "Let's just focus on getting this done, alright? We’ve got a lot to do today."Beomgyu couldn't help but chuckle, appreciating Yeonjun's gruffness despite the underlying concern. "Alright, alright. No more shoe fiascos, I promise." He grabbed the list, ready to tackle the long day ahead, the soft hum of the kitchen filling the air as the two of them set to work. *ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚ Beomgyu looked at the finished items, double-checking them one last time and began to check off each item on the list. "Yeonjun, I’m going to deliver this to Mrs Jung. Why don’t you help Mr Lee set up the café and I’ll be right back?"Yeonjun nodded, his gaze briefly softening as he looked at Beomgyu. "Alright, but don’t get into any more trouble while you’re out there, okay?" His voice held a mix of concern and irritation, the familiar tone that Beomgyu had come to expect.Beomgyu smiled at him, picking up the bags with the baked goods. "No promises but I’ll try my best. See you soon!" He waved over his shoulder as he left the kitchen, ready for the short trip to deliver the catering order.Beomgyu made his way to the Jung family's house, the small bags of freshly baked goods clutched in his hands. The air was crisp and the streets were still quiet. It didn’t take long for him to reach the large yet cosy home nestled on the outskirts of the village. He knocked three times on the door and waited.Mrs. Jung, a kind, middle-aged woman with a warm smile, opened the door. She greeted him with a friendly wave. "Ah, Beomgyu! You're just on time," she said, stepping aside to let him in."Here’s the order," Beomgyu said, handing over the bags and carefully placing each item on the counter. "Everything’s fresh and ready."Mrs Jung eyed the food with satisfaction, her smile deepening. "Thank you, Beomgyu. You always do such a wonderful job." She paused, glancing at him curiously. "How’s the café? I hope everything’s going well there."Beomgyu chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, Mr. Lee and Yeonjun are making sure I don’t burn the kitchen down today." He grinned, thinking about the earlier moment with Yeonjun.Mrs. Jung laughed softly. "That’s good to hear. You know, I think Yeonjun takes better care of you than you realize."Beomgyu felt a faint blush rise to his cheeks at the mention of Yeonjun’s care. "Well, he’s got a point about me being clumsy." He grinned sheepishly."Don’t be too hard on yourself, dear," she said warmly. "You’re still young. You have plenty of time to figure it all out.""Thanks, Mrs. Jung," Beomgyu said, glancing at the counter where the baked goods had been left. "Oh, the total for this order is 45 bronze coins by the way.""Of course," Mrs. Jung replied, counting out the coins and handing them to Beomgyu. "You’re doing such a great job. Keep it up!"Beomgyu smiled and nodded, tucking the coins into his pocket. "I should get going now, though, I don’t want to keep them waiting.""Of course, dear. Take care and thank you again." She waved him off as Beomgyu stepped out the door and headed back towards the café.He couldn’t help but smile as he walked back. Despite his chaotic morning, there was a sense of peace in these small moments, and he felt grateful for them.As Beomgyu made his way back to the cafe, the peaceful atmosphere of the streets was interrupted by the sound of a growing crowd. The chatter was loud, and Beomgyu could hear shouts and laughter echoing from the square. Curiosity tugged at him, and he quickened his steps, wondering what had everyone so excited.When he reached the edge of the crowd, he found himself straining to see over the heads of the villagers gathered around. Despite being on his toes, Beomgyu couldn’t make out what was happening in the centre of the circle. The crowd seemed riled up, murmuring with excitement and anticipation.He turned to the nearest person, a brunette boy standing just a few feet away from him. "Excuse me," Beomgyu said, tapping him lightly on the arm. "Do you know what's going on?"The brunette boy turned to face Beomgyu, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "The school!" he said, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. "Blades Academy is accepting students this year!!" His words hung in the air for a moment, as if they were a secret finally being revealed. He leaned in slightly, his smile widening as he continued. "It's been all anyone's been talking about lately. They’re taking new recruits this year. Can you believe it?"Beomgyu's eyes widened, his heart skipping a beat. "You mean THE school?!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief and awe. "The one where all the knights get trained? The super prestigious one?" He took a step back, still processing the news. "I thought the invitation wasn't extended to our village..." His gaze flickered from the brunette boy to the crowd, still struggling to wrap his head around the idea. The possibility seemed too unreal, too out of reach for someone like him.The brunette boy’s green eyes sparkled with excitement as he turned to Beomgyu, a wide grin spreading across his face. “That’s right!” he replied, his voice full of enthusiasm. “They extended the invitation to our village this time. Everyone who’s dreamed of becoming a knight is talking about it!” His words seemed to hang in the air, full of possibility. Beomgyu could see the excitement in his eyes, the same hope that had been kindling in his own heart for as long as he could remember. The thought of the prestigious Blades Academy, where knights were trained, was something Beomgyu had only ever heard of in stories. Now, it felt like a dream that might just be within reach.Beomgyu’s eyes lit up with awe, his voice rising in excitement. “A knight!!! That is so cool!!!” he exclaimed, unable to hide the spark of admiration in his gaze. He paused for a moment, his mind racing with the possibilities, before adding, “I dreamt of becoming one too!” The thought of training to become a knight—standing tall, strong, and disciplined like the heroes from his childhood stories—made his heart race. The idea that this dream could actually come true, that the opportunity was right in front of him, filled him with a sense of excitement and wonder he could hardly contain.The brunette chuckled softly, his green eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief. "They probably have some really awesome guys there, right?" he said, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his lips. His voice grew dreamy as he added, "I wonder if there’ll be anyone who can just sweep me off my feet." He leaned back slightly as if already imagining the knights in shining armor, his tone light and teasing, but a certain wistfulness lingering behind his words. Beomgyu let out an awkward laugh, rubbing the back of his neck as he glanced away, his cheeks tinged with a hint of pink. "I... I don't know about that..." he stammered, his voice trailing off. He scratched his head, trying to brush off the thought of knights swooping in to sweep anyone off their feet.The brunette sighed, his expression growing a little more serious as he spoke. "The test application fee is really high for a village like ours. Not many people here save up enough for something like that." He paused, glancing around at the small, peaceful surroundings of their village. "And that's not even counting the housing fee. Apparently, it costs quite a bit to live near the academy too. I also heard not everyone who applies will even pass the test."Beomgyu's heart sank as he processed the words. His mind raced and for a moment, he almost didn’t want to hear the number. Nervously, he shifted his weight from foot to foot and looked up at the brunette, voice small. "R-Really? How much...?"He bit his lip, not wanting to hear the answer, already feeling the weight of the costs before the brunette could even speak.The brunette exhaled slowly, running a hand through his hair as he gave Beomgyu a sympathetic look. "It's 100 bronze coins," he said, almost as if the number itself was a heavy burden to carry. "I heard you can work on campus to cover the living costs once you're accepted, but still... 100 bronze coins? That's pretty steep, especially when there's no guarantee you'll even get in." *ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚ Beomgyu trudged back toward the cafe, his mind clouded with thoughts of the application fee and the uncertainty of his dream. The weight of 100 bronze coins pressed heavily on his chest, making each step feel heavier. He had always dreamed of becoming a knight, of standing tall in armour and wielding a sword with pride, but now it felt like that dream was slipping away from him, just out of reach. He sighed deeply, pushing the thoughts aside as he approached the familiar warmth of the cafe.As he entered, the soft aroma of baked goods greeted him, but something else caught his attention. The cafe’s display was set up perfectly—elegant, inviting, and more professional than he’d ever seen it. Yeonjun must’ve finished it. Beomgyu felt a small sense of admiration well up inside him as he marvelled at the neatness and care in the presentation. Yeonjun always had an eye for detail, and today, it was clear he’d outdone himself.Beomgyu quickly made his way to the back to find Mr. Lee, eager to inform him that the delivery was complete. “Mr. Lee,” Beomgyu called out as he entered the café, “I’m back from Mrs. Jung’s place.” He tried to sound casual but the unease still lingered in his voice.Mr. Lee glanced up from his work as Beomgyu entered the kitchen, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Good work today, Beomgyu,” he said, his voice warm but carrying a note of gentle reprimand. “Now, don’t forget to wear your shoes when you come on time.” He shook his head with a sigh, but there was no malice behind it—just the soft exasperation of someone who’d seen the same habits for years.Beomgyu winced a little, his mind still clouded with thoughts of the knight school. “I know, Mr. Lee,” he muttered, embarrassed by the reminder.Mr. Lee chuckled, shaking his head in that knowing way. “You’re a good worker, don’t get me wrong. But those late-night comic book readings? They always get you in trouble. I hope to see you on time tomorrow.” His tone softened at the end, as though he truly cared, despite his teasing.Beomgyu nodded sheepishly, trying to push his worries aside. “I’ll try to be on time, I promise,” he said, managing a small smile. He knew Mr. Lee meant well, even if his words were a little too close to the truth.Beomgyu tucked the 30 bronze coins that he just earned from Mr Lee into his pocket, a sense of accomplishment filling him as he made his way back home. The day had gone well—he’d finished his tasks on time, and now he could finally place the coins into his piggy bank. The thought of the small clink of the coins was enough to make him smile. It wasn’t a huge amount, but it was enough to make him feel like he was one step closer to something bigger, something he dreamed of.As he strolled through the market, the familiar sights and sounds filled the air—vendors calling out their prices, the smell of fresh fruit and baked goods mixing with the buzz of lively conversations. Beomgyu was lost in his thoughts when something familiar caught his eye. He paused in front of a small toy stall, its shelves lined with all sorts of figurines and trinkets. But one figure stood out more than the others—Dagonyang, a character from his favourite comic book series, sitting proudly on display.His heart skipped a beat. It was the exact figure he had wanted for his collection.Beomgyu quickly approached the stall, his curiosity piqued. “How much for the Dagonyang figure?” he asked, trying to hide his excitement.The vendor, an older woman with a warm smile, glanced at the figure and then back at Beomgyu. “It’s 15 bronze coins,” she replied.Beomgyu paused, his hand instinctively going to the pocket where he’d just placed his earnings. He glanced at the figure again, then at the coins in his pocket. It was a lot to spend—half of what he’d just earned. His fingers hovered over the coins, the internal debate playing out in his mind. Should he save the money, or should he treat himself?After a few moments of contemplation, Beomgyu made his decision. His heart was set on it—this figure would complete his collection. He smiled to himself, excited about how it would look sitting alongside the other treasures he had.“I’ll take it,” Beomgyu said, his voice full of anticipation as he handed over the 15 bronze coins.The vendor nodded with a smile and carefully wrapped the figure in paper, handing it to him. “It’ll be a great addition to your collection,” she said.Beomgyu smiled brightly, clutching the wrapped figure tightly. As he continued his walk home, he couldn’t help but feel a rush of satisfaction.Beomgyu reached home, the familiar quiet of the house greeting him as he stepped inside. He glanced around, listening for any signs of movement but it seemed that no one was home. He sighed in relief—he’d be able to put his figure up in peace without anyone interrupting him.With quick, eager steps, he made his way upstairs to his bedroom. The excitement bubbled inside him as he carefully unwrapped the Dagonyang figure. He placed it on the shelf, beside the other toys in his collection, and stepped back to admire it. The figure stood tall and proud among the others, its colours contrasting beautifully with the rest of his ppulbatu collection. Beomgyu smiled, his heart swelling with pride as he looked at his collection. It looked awesome—just as he had imagined.His smile lingered for a moment before reality crept back in. He reached into his pocket and pulled out the remaining 15 bronze coins, placing them beside the 11 bronze coins he had saved from previous earnings. With a hopeful glance, he gathered all his savings and counted them carefully.“Let’s see… 11 plus 15…” Beomgyu muttered to himself, working the numbers in his head. “That makes only 26 bronze coins….”His excitement quickly turned into disappointment. He had expected more. His dream of applying to Blades Academy felt just a little further out of reach now. With a frustrated sigh, Beomgyu grabbed a piece of paper and did the math, writing out the numbers to get a clearer picture.“100 minus 26…” he whispered, his eyes tracing the numbers. “74… I still need 74 bronze coins,” he said letting out a deep sigh.His shoulders slumped as the weight of the realisation hit him. It felt like such a long way to go and he couldn’t help but groan in frustration. The thought of how far he was from his goal made him throw his hands up in the air.“NOOOOO!” he yelled out in disappointment, his voice echoing through the empty house. He flopped down onto his bed, feeling a bit defeated.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The morning sun poured over the village, casting everything in a soft, golden glow that seemed to wrap the entire town in a warm embrace. The air was crisp with the scent of fresh earth and dewy grass, mingling with the faint fragrance of wildflowers that bloomed at the edges of the cobblestone streets. The birds, oblivious to the weight of the moment, sang merrily from their perches, their melodies filling the air with an almost contagious joy. Above, the sky stretched out like a flawless canvas, the vibrant blue unbroken by even a single cloud. It was a perfect day by all accounts—except for the storm of nerves that churned violently inside Beomgyu.He stood motionless before the guard's office, its stone walls tall and imposing, the iron bars of the barred windows casting shadows across the sunlit ground. His heart raced in his chest, thumping erratically like a drumbeat as his breath came in shallow bursts. The faint smell of leather and metal from the guard uniforms mingled with the crisp air, but none of it reached his senses. His focus was entirely on the heavy door in front of him—the very one that separated him from everything he feared.Beomgyu’s fingers curled involuntarily into tight fists at his sides, his nails digging into his palms until they burned. His knuckles, pale against the fabric of his dark, well-worn cloak, were tense with the strain. He could feel the weight of the heavy wool cloak pressing down on him, its familiar scent of aged linen and something faintly earthy wrapping around him like a second skin. The cloak’s rough texture rubbed against his skin with each shallow breath he took.Swallowing hard, the taste of bitterness still fresh on his tongue, Beomgyu closed his eyes for a moment. His mind screamed for him to take the first step, but his body refused. The sharp scent of metal and the faint, musty smell of the stone walls seemed to close in on him, suffocating his thoughts. He could hear his own pulse, hammering in his ears, louder than the birds, louder than the breeze that rustled through the trees. Still, his legs felt like they were made of lead, incapable of moving him toward the door.“Okay, calm down, Beomgyu. You can do this!” he muttered to himself, his breath hitching slightly as he squeezed his eyes shut for a second. Deep breaths. The scent of the stone walls seemed to press in on him, but he ignored it, focusing instead on the task at hand. I know this is a super friendly neighbourhood, but remember that time a kid waltzed into your house, broke your figures and accidentally ripped your comic books? He shuddered at the thought. Yeah, we can’t let that happen again! This isn’t just for my own protection—it’s for my precious figures. And my comics. So yeah… let’s just go in, file the report, and get out. That’s all I have to do.With a final, steadying breath, Beomgyu pushed open the heavy wooden door. The hinges creaked, and the thick, musty scent of the office greeted him—like old paper and dust with a faint trace of ink. The walls, made of warm, honey-coloured wood, seemed to sigh with age. The office was modest, with a few scattered desks cluttered with papers, ink bottles, and the faint glow of a dying candle in one corner. The air held a coolness to it, with a breeze that ruffled through the small cracks in the stone, but it was far from unwelcoming. Yet, despite the room's simplicity, it was the guards that drew Beomgyu’s attention.Two of them stood near the far end, with their backs to the door, deep in conversation. Their voices, though hushed, carried enough weight to reach Beomgyu’s ears. The older guard—a burly man with a thick, bushy moustache—sighed deeply, the sound thick with frustration. His uniform, a dark, heavy tunic with faded patches of deep green, was frayed at the edges, as though it had seen far too many nights patrolling the streets. The strong scent of leather from his armour mixed with the faint tang of metal as his arms crossed over his broad chest. His brows were furrowed, deep lines marking the corners of his eyes, and his posture radiated authority, despite his evident concern.“Is it true that we got four theft reports last night?” the older man asked, his voice low but firm, a heavy sigh following the question.Beomgyu stepped back slightly, his heart picking up pace, but curiosity kept his feet rooted to the ground. Beside the older guard stood a younger man, lean and wiry, with short, neat black hair and eyes that flickered with tension. His uniform, slightly more polished than the older man’s, reflected the same military green and brown tones, but with hints of fresh stitching along the seams. His fingers—tapping anxiously against the hilt of his sheathed sword—betrayed his nervous energy, a stark contrast to the older man’s more commanding presence.“Sadly, yes,” the younger guard replied, his voice tight, the words tumbling out quickly. “We’ve had theft reports from time to time, but never so many in one night.” His gaze darted to the ceiling for a moment, as though calculating the severity of the situation.The older man let out a long, frustrated breath. “This is terrible,” he muttered, the words bitter. “We’re already short on guards. If the villagers find out about this, they’re going to demand more guards on duty at night. We can’t afford to do that right now.” He shook his head, the weight of responsibility pressing down on him as his worn boots shifted against the floorboards with a faint creak.The younger guard nodded in agreement, his expression a mixture of frustration and determination. “That’s why it’s so important for us to catch this thief before more people fall victim… and before word spreads.”Beomgyu leaned in just a bit, despite himself, his pulse quickening as he listened. What kind of thief could be bold enough to steal from this village in the dead of night? But before he could ruminate further, the older guard’s eyes flickered toward the door. His entire body stiffened, and his voice dropped to a whisper, harsh with urgency.“Shhh, lower your voice. We have a visitor.”The younger guard turned with a start, and both immediately fixed their gaze on Beomgyu. Their sudden shift in attention made the air feel colder, their scrutiny pressing against his chest like a heavyweight. The smell of ink and leather that had once been soothing now felt charged, and Beomgyu found himself standing on the threshold, suddenly aware of how small the room felt.He could feel his throat tighten, his nerves creeping back, but he forced himself to stand tall, meeting their gazes with a determined—if slightly shaky—smile.The moustache guard straightened, his broad shoulders lifting with a controlled effort, his expression shifting to something more polished. His dark eyes, though shadowed with fatigue, softened as he greeted Beomgyu. “How can we help you, sir?”Beomgyu felt the weight of the room suddenly presses down on him. His nerves fluttered again, but he swallowed the unease rising in his throat. He shifted his weight from one foot to the other, the wooden floor creaking under his boots. The scent of aged pine mingled with the faint aroma of ink. “Um… I came to file a report,” he stammered, his voice feeling too loud in the stillness.The moustached guard gave Beomgyu a firm nod, his expression slipping back into a mask of professionalism, though a note of weariness lingered in the corners of his mouth. “We should’ve noticed you and assisted you right away. My apologies.” His voice was low, yet carried an authority that demanded attention. The scent of leather from his armour, mixed with the faint musk of sweat, added to the air of duty that hung around him. “What’s the problem?”Beomgyu scratched the back of his neck, the awkwardness of the situation creeping up his spine like a cold chill. “My neighbours… they keep entering my house unannounced.” He trailed off, his words catching in the air. He lowered his voice, as if speaking it out loud would somehow make it more absurd. “They’re generally really nice people, but… I don’t know, sometimes my home doesn’t feel like my own home.” The words felt foreign as they left his lips, his fingers nervously twirling the hem of his sleeve, the fabric cool and soft against his skin.The younger guard, still leaning casually against the wall, absent-mindedly rested his hand on the hilt of his sword. His sharp gaze flicked over to Beomgyu, the glint of curiosity evident in his eyes. His uniform, a little more pristine than the older guard’s, shimmered faintly as he moved, and the scent of freshly oiled leather surrounded him. He tilted his head ever so slightly.“I wake up, and they’re just… right there,” Beomgyu continued, a shudder running through him at the memory of the previous morning. The image of his neighbours’ sudden appearance at the foot of his bed sent a wave of unease through his chest. “It’s really uncomfortable sometimes.” He paused, feeling a twinge of embarrassment but pushed on.The older guard, stroking his thick, greying beard, hummed thoughtfully. The soft scrape of his calloused fingers against the stubble filled the silence for a moment. “Hmm, yes, that would be a problem,” he murmured, his voice a low rumble, as his eyes drifted upward, seemingly lost in his own thoughts. The room, filled with the warm scent of wood and wax, felt charged with a quiet tension as he continued. “Especially since we had some thef—” He stopped abruptly, clearing his throat loudly. “N-Never mind.”Beomgyu’s brow furrowed ever so slightly, his curiosity piqued by the older guard’s sudden falter. But before he could voice the question that hovered on his tongue, the guard pressed on, his demeanour returning to its prior professional composure.“Our village has always been known for being friendly and safe, even if you leave your door open.” The guard’s tone softened as he spoke, as though trying to reassure Beomgyu. The familiar, earthy scent of his tunic blended with the sharpness of the candle’s flame. “But I can understand how it could get… annoying if people keep entering your home unannounced.” He gave a slight nod, his expression growing more thoughtful. “It would help if you installed a wooden fence around the entrance. That should at least set some boundaries.”The younger guard, still standing beside him with his arms crossed over his chest, chimed in. His voice, younger but just as firm, carried an air of confidence. “We’ll also have a word with your neighbours and set more night guards on duty,” he added, his eyes locking onto Beomgyu’s with a reassuring intensity. The faint scent of leather mixed with the cool, crisp air of the morning, lending him an almost noble presence.Beomgyu felt his tension slip away like water from a stone. His face lit up with relief, the edges of his lips curling into a genuine, unguarded smile. “Yes, yes! Thank you so much! I feel much better now!” His voice was bright, the gratitude clear in every syllable. The warmth of the sun outside seemed to creep into the room, but the most comforting feeling was the assurance that his problem was being taken seriously. “I’ll make sure to put up some fences today.”The older guard, his face softening into a small, approving smile, gave a brief nod. “It’s my pleasure,” he said, his voice tinged with a quiet satisfaction. The air, now filled with the faint scent of beeswax from the candle, felt lighter, the earlier tension dissipating into something more pleasant.Beomgyu stepped out of the guards' office, the morning air filling his lungs with a fresh breeze that seemed to lift the weight of the world off his shoulders. His steps were lighter now that his complaint had been filed, his heart beating a little easier with the knowledge that things were being taken care of. With a newfound sense of relief, he turned toward the café, eager to start his shift and put the morning's nerves behind him.As he rounded a corner, the peacefulness of the moment was abruptly shattered by a sudden and forceful collision. The sharp smack of impact echoed through the street, and before Beomgyu could even process what was happening, the wind was knocked out of him. A person, carrying an enormous stack of books—so tall that it blocked their entire view—came barreling into him. They didn’t see him at all, too absorbed in the weight of the tomes to notice the oncoming obstacle.The collision sent them both tumbling onto the cobblestone street with a loud thud. Beomgyu felt a sharp sting as his back hit the unforgiving ground, the books flying out of the stranger's hands in all directions like an unexpected storm of paper, the sound of pages fluttering in the wind.“Ugh, ow...” Beomgyu groaned, wincing as a sharp jolt of pain shot through his body from the sudden fall. He blinked and shook his head, trying to shake off the dizziness. He glanced over at the other person, who was sprawled beside him, their pile of books now scattered across the street like confetti. Guilt surged in him instantly, replacing any initial irritation. He scrambled to his feet, reaching out a hand to help the stranger up. “I’m so sorry, are you okay?”The person groaned, rubbing their head with a wince as they slowly stood up. “Oww...” they muttered, shaking themselves off before glancing over at Beomgyu, their expression softening with a mixture of concern and surprise. “I’m fine. Are you okay? These hardcover books are no joke to run into.”Beomgyu chuckled softly, brushing dust off his clothes and trying to make light of the situation. “Pfft, oh me? Don’t worry, I have the body of steel.” He grinned playfully, his confidence returning as he extended a hand to help them. “Here, let me help you.”As they gathered the scattered books, Beomgyu moved carefully, ensuring each one was returned to its rightful place in the pile. The smell of aged paper and ink hung in the air, adding an unexpected charm to the moment. As they worked, the other person paused mid-reach, squinting at Beomgyu with an expression of confusion. Their brow furrowed, and then their eyes widened in recognition.“Thank you...” they began, their voice warm yet slightly uncertain. Then their eyes suddenly brightened. “Wait... have we met before?” They looked at Beomgyu with a spark of realization. “Oh! That’s right! Didn’t we meet at the town square yesterday? You told me about the school invitation! Wasn’t it you??”The other person smiled back, clearly relieved to have the connection made. “Oh yes, that was me! Happy to see you again!” They offered a hand, their voice warm and inviting. “My name is Soobin.”Beomgyu grinned and shook their hand enthusiastically, a fresh sense of familiarity blooming between them. “I’m Beomgyu. I work at Mr. Lee’s café.” He glanced down at the stack of books Soobin was holding, impressed by the sheer number. “Do you like books? You have sooo many of them.”Soobin, the tall figure with tousled brown hair and soft green eyes, gave a sheepish smile, his gaze flicking to the books with a sense of pride. He was dressed in a loose, comfortable shirt that hung casually over his slender frame, the fabric soft and worn in places, suggesting both comfort and familiarity. He looked a little awkward as he tried to gather the scattered books, his movements slightly clumsy. “Yes, I love books, but I also work at the library. I was trying to return these, but... I couldn’t see my way clearly. I should’ve been more careful. Sorry about that.”Beomgyu waved his hand dismissively, a grin tugging at the corners of his lips. “Please, don’t worry about it. I should’ve been paying more attention myself.” He looked down at the scattered books, the edges worn and frayed, their covers filled with colour and promise. Then he looked up at Soobin with a soft smile. “Here, let me help you carry them. I was going in that direction anyway.”Soobin blinked in surprise, his eyes lighting up with gratitude as he handed over the heavy stack of books. The weight of them was obvious, but Beomgyu didn’t seem bothered by it at all. "Thanks, Beomgyu. That would be really helpful."Together, they made their way to the library, Beomgyu carrying the stack of books with a sense of ease, the faint scent of leather and paper surrounding them. As Beomgyu set the last book on a shelf, he paused for a moment, taking in the quiet of the library, the smell of dust and parchment mixing with the calm stillness of the space. He gave Soobin a quick wave, his steps light as he headed back toward the café.Beomgyu’s heart raced with anticipation as he spotted Yeonjun standing in front of the café, leaning casually against the doorframe. His grin widened, and he couldn’t help the burst of excitement that bubbled up inside him.“Yeonjun!!!” Beomgyu called out, waving enthusiastically. “I actually really wanted to tell you something. Did you hear the big news about the school invitation being extended to our village?! Isn’t that fantastic?!!”Yeonjun’s expression remained neutral, though his eyes held a soft hint of something deeper as he responded, “...So I’ve heard...” His tone was calm, almost distant, and it made Beomgyu pause for a moment, unsure of what to make of it. There was something in Yeonjun’s gaze that hinted at thoughts beyond just the news.Unperturbed, Beomgyu’s excitement bubbled over. “So, will you be applying for the entrance test? I’m going to!! I’m a bit short—74 bronze coins, to be exact—but... a few days of work and saving should do the trick!” His voice practically sang with optimism, filled with dreams of the possibility of becoming a knight.Yeonjun tilted his head slightly, his gaze thoughtful as if weighing the idea. His voice was quiet, but the hint of something more serious lingered in his words. “So, finally, this village gets the invitation too... Hmmm...” There was no clear excitement or scepticism in his tone, just a quiet reflection that left Beomgyu wondering what exactly he was thinking.But Beomgyu wasn’t going to let the uncertainty dampen his enthusiasm. “You should apply!! You’re so strong and good at everything! I’m sure you’ll become one fine knight!!” His eyes sparkled with pure confidence, fully believing in Yeonjun’s ability to succeed.Yeonjun hesitated for a moment, his gaze drifting, and then he spoke slowly, the weight of his words catching Beomgyu off guard. “...Do you really need to go to school?”Beomgyu blinked, surprised by the question. “Huh? What do you mean?” he asked, genuinely confused by the sudden turn of the conversation.Yeonjun’s voice dropped, his words carrying a deeper weight. “Think about it. If you pass and get... accepted, you’ll be leaving this village to attend a school far away. You’ll have to devote all your time to studying and training skills. Even if you want to visit the village, you won’t be able to unless it’s a special holiday or break. Not only that... who knows what will happen to Mr. Klutz... someone like you? People might not understand when you can’t deliver what they want to see. And what if you don’t pass the test? You’re surely going to sulk for days. Your test application fee, which, by the way, isn’t cheap, will be gone out of your pocket, and you won’t be able to buy your precious comic books for a while.”Beomgyu raised an eyebrow, a mischievous smile tugging at his lips. “Hmm, I don’t know... You know, Yeonjun, it almost sounds like you just don’t want to part from me.”Yeonjun’s eyes widened in disbelief, his voice rising defensively. “W-What!? That’s not it! I’m just trying to save myself some trouble here. I just KNOW you’re going to cry about it if you don’t get accepted.”Beomgyu couldn’t help but laugh, his voice light as he teased, “Sureee.” His grin was wide, and he laughed again, his heart light. “Well, I still want to try, Yeonjun.”Yeonjun stood there in silence for a moment, his expression unreadable. He seemed to be wrestling with something deeper, but his shoulders sagged slightly, his words coming with a mix of frustration and something softer that Beomgyu couldn’t quite place. "..."Beomgyu’s tone softened, and his smile faded as he spoke more seriously. “I know I’m clumsy, but this school... it might just change me. I don’t want to miss this chance to become a knight. It’s been my dream for a long time.”Yeonjun’s gaze flickered, and his response was flat, though there was a trace of something else beneath it. “Does it HAVE to be a knight?”Beomgyu blinked, surprised by the question. “Huh? Umm, well... I guess I just want to learn the things I can do. I might never be able to find out otherwise.”Yeonjun sighed, trying to suppress something, and his tone was laced with resignation. “Fine. There’s no need to talk further since you seem set on going,” he said. He glanced at Beomgyu, his eyes softening ever so slightly as he added, “Anyhow, I already got the list from Mr. Lee, and it’s in the kitchen. I’ll go on the delivery and leave the cooking up to you. Can you also set up the café while I’m gone?”Beomgyu nodded eagerly, his energy returning. “Okay! Oh, and Yeonjun?” he paused, as a thought crossed his mind. “Are you busy after work?”Yeonjun raised an eyebrow, a bit curious. “Not really, why?”Beomgyu’s grin returned, more confident now. “I want to put up some fences around my house, but... I’m not too sure how to do it. Could you help me, please?”Yeonjun’s lips tugged into a small, resigned smile. “Sure. Once I’m done with the delivery, I’ll meet you at your house with some wooden fence.”Beomgyu’s eyes lit up. “Thanks, Yeonjun! I knew I could count on you!!!”With a nod from Yeonjun, Beomgyu clapped his hands together. “Now, let’s get to work!!!!”Beomgyu stepped into the kitchen, immediately feeling the familiar warmth wrap around him like a comforting embrace. The cosy atmosphere was a gentle contrast to the cool air of the outside world. He moved quickly, tying his apron around his waist with practised ease. The fabric of the apron rustled softly as he adjusted it, the smell of freshly baked bread and simmering ingredients filling the space.His eyes scanned the wooden cabinet in front of him, landing on the checklist pinned neatly on the corkboard. The list was carefully written, each item in Mr. Lee’s tidy handwriting, as though to guide him through the day’s work.The list read:
Cheese sandwich
Ham sandwich
Chicken sandwich
Fish sandwich
Bacon sandwich
A smile tugged at Beomgyu’s lips as he took a deep breath, rolling up his sleeves with a sense of purpose. His hands moved deftly, gathering the ingredients laid out before him. He slid open the cabinet, the wooden doors creaking slightly, revealing slices of soft bread, glistening cheese, tender cuts of ham, chicken, fish, and crispy bacon. The tantalizing aroma of each ingredient made his mouth water.With a steady hand, Beomgyu started assembling the sandwiches, one after another. He placed the slices of cheese on the bread, carefully layering the fillings. His movements were fluid, almost rhythmic, as he assembled each sandwich with precision. The cheese melted slightly against the warmth of the bread, the ham perfectly arranged, the chicken stacked just so, the fish positioned with a thoughtful grace, and the bacon layered with care to ensure the perfect crunch with every bite. Each sandwich was a work of art in its own right, made with the kind of love and attention that only someone with a true passion for food could bring.Once he was finished, he made his way to the café area, the sandwiches balanced carefully on a tray. As he placed each one on display, he took a moment to admire them, ensuring that each sandwich was perfectly positioned to catch the eye of any potential customer. He wanted them to look appetizing, to be a reflection of his hard work. His eyes sparkled with pride as he stepped back to admire his handiwork.With the café set up, Beomgyu turned to find Mr. Lee, his heart light and his excitement evident in his wide grin. “Mr. Lee, I’m done!!” he announced, his voice full of enthusiasm, eyes gleaming with a sense of accomplishment.Mr. Lee’s warm smile stretched across his face, his eyes crinkling at the corners with approval. “Good work today,” he said, his voice rich with praise. “Yeonjun told me you came on time without any problem. I’m proud of you.” He nodded toward a wooden chest in the corner of the room, its surface worn from years of use. “Your daily 30 bronze coins are in that chest over there.”Beomgyu’s grin grew wider, the anticipation of the coins filling him with joy. “Thank you!!” he exclaimed, practically bounding over to the chest. He opened it eagerly, his heart racing with the excitement of seeing the coins he had earned with his hard work. He pulled out the 30 bronze coins, the weight of them in his hands filling him with a sense of satisfaction. Each coin was a step closer to his dream, a dream that now seemed just a little bit more attainable.As Beomgyu made his way out of the café, the cool night air greeted him, a refreshing contrast to the warmth he had just left behind. He stretched his arms above his head, taking a deep breath, his body releasing the tension from the long day. “Well, since Yeonjun is going to get the fencing,” he thought, “I think I’ll cook him something nice as a little treat.”With a sense of purpose, he headed toward the market, his mind already calculating how to spend his coins wisely. He had earned 30 bronze coins that day, but he decided to spend only 5 on ingredients, leaving him with 25. With the coins he had saved up previously, his total had reached 51 bronze coins. A small smile tugged at his lips as he considered the progress he had made. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to keep the spark of hope alive.As he walked past the market stalls, his eyes were drawn to the vibrant display of fruits. The bright reds of apples, the sunny yellows of peaches, and the deep purples of plums gleamed in the soft glow of the evening light. His mouth watered as he approached the stall. “Oh my gosh, these fruits look so fresh!! How much are these?” he asked eagerly, his voice tinged with excitement.The stall owner, a kindly woman with a weathered smile, quoted a price, and Beomgyu nodded, reaching for his coin pouch. But as his fingers brushed the opening, his stomach dropped. "Wait... where did my money go?" he muttered under his breath. His hands fumbled through the pouch, panic rising in his chest. “It was right here!!!”His eyes darted around, and that’s when he saw it—a boy, no older than he was, darting through the crowd, running as fast as his legs would carry him. Beomgyu’s heart raced, and without thinking, he shouted, “Pickpocket! Thief!” His voice was hoarse with panic as he pointed in the direction of the fleeing boy.Without hesitation, Beomgyu took off after him, his legs pumping as fast as they could go. He pushed his way through the bustling crowd, desperate to catch the thief. But the boy was too fast, weaving expertly between people, his movements fluid and quick. No matter how hard Beomgyu tried, the distance between them only grew.Eventually, out of breath and with his heart pounding in his chest, Beomgyu slowed to a stop. His eyes searched the streets in vain, but the thief was gone. He stood there, panting, the weight of his lost coins pressing down on him. "Nooo!" he groaned, feeling the bitter sting of defeat.With heavy steps, Beomgyu made his way home. Each footfall seemed to echo in his ears as he replayed the moment over and over in his mind—the moment when his hard-earned money had disappeared, slipping through his fingers like water. He wiped his eyes, but the tears wouldn’t stop. He felt so careless, so foolish.When he reached his house, his heart sank as he saw Yeonjun standing there, arms crossed, a slight frown on his face. Beomgyu couldn’t even muster the energy to greet him with a smile. His voice was barely a whisper. “Yeonjun…”Yeonjun glanced at him, annoyance flashing in his eyes. “You’re late. I don’t appreciate you making me wait—” He paused, his gaze softening as he noticed the tears streaming down Beomgyu’s face. “Wait... are you crying?”The moment the words left Yeonjun’s mouth, Beomgyu’s tears spilled over. His body shook with sobs, the floodgates of his emotions breaking open. The frustration, the disappointment, and the exhaustion of the day all poured out in waves. He didn’t try to stop them. He couldn’t.