Breads

Restless days, unfinished research, tuition funds, and deadlines, which, if I didn’t meet, I might be really dead. University life wasn’t easy; it never was.

I’m in the 2nd semester of my freshman year as an Interior Design student. My family wanted to support me, but I didn't want to. I have my reasons.

Now, I live alone. Funding myself, tuition, and rent. I worked hard, and I work extra jobs if an opportunity comes.

February 28, 2026, Saturday.

“1 hot americano, & 2 cold spanish latte for table 4!” I heard the familiar loud ass voice from the counter.

“!!!” I snapped back to reality, oh right, I’m working right now. It’s Saturday, which is typically a rest day, but I do not have the right to rest since tuition and rent are due.

“Coming!” I yelled back. I’m exhausted since the shop was hectic today; it was so crowded. I can also see a fairly long line outside, waiting for someone to leave so they can take their turn.

Zig-zagging my way to the counter, evading chairs, tables, and customers. Thanks to my fit body, I can move around with ease.

The coffee shop I worked at is not just famous for its remarkable roasted coffee; it is also well-known for its dazzling crew and staff. Catffeine is the name of the shop.

For some reason, I’m an exception. I passed the interview and got the job because I saved the owner’s daughter from a potential car accident. He felt indebted, so he hired me as soon as he saw my application.

“You know, you didn’t have to shout like that Sooin. That’s why we have a bell in here, ring it.” I said to the girl named Kim Soo-in, who was standing behind the counter.

She’s the daughter of the owner of a popular pharmacy. Why would she work here? It’s simple, she’s bored. Her family covers her tuition and allowances, but she said she’ll rot like a fossil in the dorm if she doesn’t move frequently, so she worked as a barista in the shop.

But the way she acts, it’s almost contradictory to what she told us. She’ll be fossilised if she doesn’t move much? She can’t even ring a bell, which is just a few steps away from her. All I can think is she's lying, but what’s her agenda, though? Or she’s just timid.

“It’s far.” She smiled at me. My heart almost jumped out of me. Well, most men will probably feel the same.

Her smile brightened up my mood. She had a cat-like feature, which is her killer point. Her bangs complement her beauty, her eyes, her nose; it’s striking. They often call her mini Suzy, the famous actress. I can say she’s not a “mini”, the girl was 172cm tall, 4cm taller than me.

“It's just a few steps”, I argue, picking up the tray of coffee for table 4.

“Well, next time.” She winked, and that completely changed my whole spirit from mad to cheery. She’s aware of what her strength is.

That damn smile again. She’s dangerous, better to stay away from her!

“Stop putting more work on our little guy, we’re a full house. We’ll ring the bell next time, midgy.” Another girl behind the counter speaks.

Midgy, that’s what she calls me. I can see her head gracefully move behind the towering coffee machines. That girl is named Lee Gawon. Standing 174cm, she has the right to call me midgy, it’s annoying, and I’m not gonna lie.

She grew up in the States and moved here to study in Seoul. She dropped dead, gorgeous as well. Her long straight black hair, model-like visuals, and long limbs. She had this expensive aura, which you can see in high-end magazines.

“Yes, ma’am!” Sooin gave a salute, acting like she was in the military.

“Oh, right. Beanpole’s right, just right the bell next time pabo.” I fought back from their teasing.

“Hey!” The two of them yelled in synchronised timing, which they found funny, so they both laughed their asses off afterwards.

My heart’s full for a reason. I momentarily forget my restless days every time I’m in the shop with them. I got to enjoy my university life even for a short time.

“I’ll serve this. Table 4 coming up!” I shout. Sooin gave me a wink while Gawon gave a steady nod; both of them were smiling.

Am I lucky? Not really, university life still sucks. Am I thankful? Yes, thanks to those who accompany me during this time. The pay’s good, the owner’s nice, and my co-workers are better than others for sure. I’m glad I have more reason to stay.

Clatter, grinding, ding ding, clatter.

“Uuhhhh! Finallyyy.” I raised my hands, stretched my stiff body, bones cracking as I felt relief, and finally, freedom.

The sun was about to set, and the sky was painted orange. After a long day of exhausting, endless coffee servings, we finally got to rest. I walked to the door, flipped the sign from “OPEN” to “CLOSED”, calling it a day.

I heard rustling behind me, and I knew it was them, in the same spot as usual every time our shift ended.

I turned around and walked to a round 4-seater table where Sooin and Gawon were already seated and taking a sip of their reward coffee. I sat down across from the two, with Gawon in front of me and Sooin on the left. They already changed from their uniform to their casual outfits.

Gawon wore a thick furry top with its sleeves rolled up to her elbow, while wearing a short skirt with a U-shaped front, which caused both ends to expose her thighs. She wore strapped high-heels at the very bottom, toes in deep red polish.

Meanwhile, Sooin changed into her all-black outfit. She fit a black tube with a black stylish blazer on top of it. Black mini skirt at the bottom with sheer black stockings.

They look breathtaking; styling like they’ll soon be emerging on a runway. Randomly, my sense of smell got blessed as well. Oh god, the scent of their mixed flowery scent got my mind floating, it’s addictive.

Sooin slip the third cup of coffee at the table to me, which I gladly took.

“Today’s really tiring! Hoard after hoard of customers.” Sooin tapping the table repeatedly.

“Stop acting like you’re the one who had the most work, midgy’s out there dodging people like a damn virus every time he serves.” Gawon laughs while describing what she saw earlier, Sooin and I laugh as well.

Seeing them laugh makes my heart flutter. At least I have a purpose to continue doing it. Somehow, I feel good every time I see them happy.

“You both love teasing me, do you?” I talked back.

“Yeah!” They answered at the same time.

“Goodness, but do you know where Karina and Ryujin went? They did not report to work today, as well as yesterday.” I asked them.

“They’re in Hong Kong for vacation. They did not tell you?” Gawon answered.

“That’s why you should be closer to them, be more friendly!” Sooin shots at me.

“B-but-” I was about to answer when Gawon cut me off.

“They always tell us that you ignored them, at least greet them good morning, goodbye, or even hello.” Gawon glared at me like I did something wrong.

“I didn’t mean to! You know they’re new, right? They’re here for not even a month.” I shot back. “Not even a month and on vacation already, great, that’s very student-like”, I added.

Karina and Ryujin joined the catffeine shop about two weeks ago. Both are cheerful and merry, and they both serve the same staff as me. Speaking of both, the two of them offered different kinds of charm, but one thing is for sure, they’re stunners as well.

Karina offered a goddess-like visual and voluminous assets in every right place, while Ryujin had these refined beauty features, which contrast with her boyish charm, but that combination is what makes her attractive.

“Okay, okay. Don’t blame them. We also did not expect that cluster of customers, right?” Sooin said, trying to calm me.

“I don't blame them, okay? And I’ll be more friendly to them.” I assure them to get along with the new hires.

“Take out that 'more', be friendly first to them”, Gawon said and laughed, and Sooin laughed as well.

“Did you know? Karina and Ryujin are single, might let you hit it.” Gawon, who is across from me, kicked me under the table.

“Aw! You.” It hurts. I know she didn’t mean to hurt me like that, but her pointed heel poked my skin through my pants.

“Oops! Sorry. But what do you say? Interested in either of the two? Or we don’t mind if you’ll say both.” Gawon teased me while Sooin laughed on the side.

“Don’t forget you two are single too, and I’m with both of you more than them”, I answered, teasing back with a very playful tone.

“Ohh. Try me then.” Gawon said.

I was about to respond when I felt something crawling on my leg underneath. It rubs my left calf over my pants, steady and gentle.

I looked at Gawon, whose arms were folded with her back now fully at ease on the back of her chair. She had that grin that was mocking and seductive.

“Why so quiet? What do you say?” Gawon asked while her right foot gently stroked my left calf.

“Gawon really loves to tease you, but she has a point, try us.” Sooin joined the teasing. Putting her left elbow on the table, then puts her chin on her palm. She stared at me as well.

These girls, I swear, if only I had the balls to hit on them. But I value our friendship, scared of losing it since it is one of the reasons I kept thriving in my university life.

But what if? What if I teased them back? Will they mind? These kinds of thoughts flow in my mind every time they do this.

“As usual, you’re too nice to be that kind of guy.” Gawon shifts on her seat, pulling her foot.

“He’s nice, that’s why we like you.” Sooin shifts at ease as well, taking a sip of her coffee.

“Nice guy, huh.” I snorted, then took a sip of my coffee as well.

Coffee was different on that specific afternoon; it was sweet and warmer. We talked about how our studies are going. We laughed at how mistakes taught us to do well.

March 1, 2026, Sunday.

The next day, catfeinne had fewer customers than yesterday. It’s typical for Sunday, but today there is something different. It was scorchingly hot outside for some reason, even though it’s the first month of spring, and our AC suddenly stopped working, what a great timing. Thankfully, it’s Sunday, and we don't need to wear our thick café uniform.

I just served 2 coffees on table 2. Our only customer at that time. I walked back to the counter and saw Gawon and Sooin crunched their noses and were listening to each other’s complaints.

“It’s fucking hot! When will the maintenance come?” Gawon angrily said. Both of them had sweat dripping from their scalp down to their face.

I watch Gawon suddenly unbutton her off-white jacket, opening it up, exposing her black tube with a thin strap hanging around her neck.

She did not stop there; she completely stripped it off. Revealing her toned, sweaty shoulders. Goodness, she’s so fine. Her long torso matched her long legs very well.

“Hey, stop looking at me like that, nice guy.” She caught me watching her strip her jacket and stare at her barely clothed top.

“Sorry, but there’s nothing to look at”, I answered humorously, and the three of us looked at her humble chest.

“YAH!” She yelled. Sooin and I burst out laughing.

“It’s average, you know!!” She is slamming the counter; she’s really mad. “Hey, Kim Sooin! Stop laughing! You’re not that big either!!” She added.

“Well, yeah? But more sizable than you thought.” Sooin stopped laughing and stripped her own jacket. She’s wearing a tight blue shirt that is hugging her frame. Her shirt stretched over her assets. 

“So annoying.” Gawon accepted her defeat and then shifted his gaze to me. She saw me staring at Sooin’s bosom. “Yah! Mr. Nice guy’s staring at your “sizable” chest.” She sarcastically reported me to the owner of those peaks.

“Let him be.” Sooin crossed her arms below her mid-sized ballistics, slightly pushing them up, and looked at Gawon with a smug face.

“Aahhk! Seriously!!” Gawon slammed both of her hands on the counter, then turned her back on us.

“Okay, okay, sorry about that”, I said to the fuming Gawon, who was suddenly busy grinding coffee beans.

“Yeah, sorry. Anyways, I’ll excuse myself for a quick restroom. Hey, cover me at the counter for a moment in case someone comes in.” She told me, which I did. She goes to the restroom afterwards.

I slid on the counter and covered her for a while. Gawon’s back was still turned on me. It’s when I noticed that her back was not ordinary.

“Hey Gawon, you work out?” I ask her.

“Why? Because I grow muscles instead of tiddies?” She is absolutely angry.

“Hey, don’t be like that. Sorry, I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to offend you like that.” I genuinely apologised.

“Yeah, it’s fine. It’s just…” she stopped.

“Just… what?” I asked. Now I’m curious what made her mad.

“I just envy them. You know, Sooin and Karina.” She said, It was mostly a whisper.

“Huh? Why? Wait, is it because they outsize you?” I asked.

“You got the point, but not really.” She said, then slowly turned to face me. She looked me in the eye. “You guys want it huge, right?” She added.

“Honestly? It doesn’t matter. Hey, you eat bread, right?” I answered and threw a question as well.

“Huh? Yeah, of course.” She’s confused but still answered me.

“Whether it’s croissant, baguette, bagel, or whole wheat. It’s still bread, it depends on what the guy likes, and we can’t eat more than our belly can.” I explained which is actually a made-up philosophy.

“Huh? So you just want to eat our chest afterall?” She got it wrong, but it was somehow right.

“Yes, huh? Wait! No! Not like that!” I slipped. “I just want to say that the size doesn’t matter, any guy will choose what suits their taste”, I explained.

“You could have just said it in a much simpler way; you don’t have to twist your words.” She smiled. I wonder if I can soften her anger.

“What bread are Sooin and Karina?” She asked.

“Sooin might be croissant while Karina is Sourdough”, I answered.

“So… what kind of bread do you like?” She looked at me, straight to my soul. Her eyes are anticipating what I will say.

“Pancake”, I said. She tilted her head, confused by the answer I'd said.

“Pancake? Is it bread? Let’s say it's quick bread. But why?” She asked, she’s really puzzled.

“Just because.” I smiled, then she turned around. I thought she would start grinding more coffee beans, but she didn’t do anything.

I didn’t hear any metal clattering nor coffee beans spilling. The machines didn’t start as well. The silence is deafening. Until she spoke once again.

“What am I? What kind of bread do I have?” she asked, back still turned on me.

The tension suddenly rose; I wanted to relieve her anger from earlier. Then suddenly, my heart beats faster than it should. My hands are beginning to sweat.

“You-” I was about to answer.

“Hey! Thanks for covering me up!” Sooin are now back from her restroom break. “Hey? Are you two still fighting?” She asked after noticing our awkward reactions.

“No, we’re good!” Gawon turned. She showcases her usual smile, but I feel like I must say something.

“Pancake”, I answered once again, but for a different question.

“Huh?” Sooin have no idea what I just said.

“...” Gawon got it.

“Pancake, and I like pancake”, I said, leaving the two of them at the counter. I walked straight to the utility room, trying to occupy myself since there’s only one customer.

“What is that? Should I buy a pancake for him?” Sooin is still confused about what I just said.

“Stay here! I’ll go but him pancakes!” Gawon smiled ear to ear. She picked up her jacket, then slapped Sooin’s butt with a loud smack, then slipped behind her.

Slap!

“Ouch! Hey! Where do you think you’re going!?” Sooin shouts at hopping Gawon.

“I’m buying a pancake!” Gawon exits the shop with a huge smile.

“What the hell? What’s with pancake?” Sooin asked herself, which I heard when I mopped near the counter. 

“Well, she’s flat as a pancake, though.” She added, which choked me up.

“Hey, you okay?” Sooin noticed me.

“Ehem! Yeah, I’m fine.” I assured her. She’s a bit straightforward for that.

We’re on the 4-seater round table once again later that day. Seeping our reward coffee for today. We’re sitting in our usual pattern, Gawon’s across in front of me, while Sooin’s on the left.

The AC eventually got repaired as well, but there was a little commotion during the maintenance. The repair guy often took glances at Gawon and Sooin. They told me it’s creepy, so I had to put my guard up during the repairs. I served as his helper to make the maintenance easier and faster.

“Ugh. I got goosebumps every time I remember that repair guy. Hey, don’t call him again. Find another one.” Sooin was complaining.

“Yeah, I’ll look for another repair service next time. Don’t worry.” I assured them.

I looked at Gawon, who’s staring at me since we gather on the table. I signalled what was up and she waved her head, signalling back that it was nothing.

“What’s with you two?” Sooin looked at us, confused. “Didn’t we have a fight earlier?” She added.

“It’s not a fight, it’s just a little teasing”, I answered. Well, it was not really a fight.

“Oh, here. Eat well.” Gawon took something from the ground, and she puts is on the table. It’s a white paper bag. “You like them.” She smiled.

“Thank you…? Wait, is this why you run earlier?” I smiled back. Inside the bag is 3 boxes of pancakes.

“Yeah, you want them, right? Had to buy some unless you want to taste the “pancakes” here in our shop.” There you go, her teasing. She’s not mad now.

“We have pancakes?” Sooin is still puzzled.

“Shut up, croissant”, Gawon said.

“Wait. Seriously, what’s going on!?” Sooin had enough. She stood up, looking down on both of us. Her nose crinkles, eyebrows colliding, and her hands on her waist. 

“You guys have something! Come on! There are only three of us right now! You shouldn’t leave me out, or else I’ll be very mad!” She added.

“You sound really mad already. It’s just we’re talking about bread earlier, and somehow both of us like pancake.” I explained.

Gawon watched me lie; her smile did not disappear ever since I said I liked pancake earlier. I felt butterflies in my stomach, that “pancake” and “bread” were about their chest, and I think she forgot about it.

“Is that it? But I don’t want a croissant! Sighed. Anyways.” Sooin laughed and sat down.

We talked for a while before bidding goodbye. Gawon were treating me differently than usual, which Sooin and I found really confusing. We still tease and joke as usual.

Later that day, when I was about to sleep. Two straight messages notified me on my phone. I picked it up at the top of my nightstand and looked it up. Two messages from Gawon.

—

Hey, are you serious about earlier?

About the pancakes.

Yeah, but you still remember that it’s about uhmm

About the chest, right?

Yeah, I know.

So you like mine more than Karina's?

…

Answer me.

Yeah.

You like mine more than Sooin's?

Yeah.

Hey, what are you into?

Nothing! Just wanted to reconfirm it.

Want some pancake?

Just ate some, still have more left at the table. Thanks, by the way.

Not that.

My pancakes.

Gawon, stop.

Just teasing! Haha.

Okay, well uhm. Good night!

Yeah, good night!

…

But tell me if you want it.

What?

I might feel generous and let you have some. Good night!!!

—

“This is dangerous,” I said. I closed my eyes and tried to sleep, but something’s preventing me from doing so.

“Damn it, Gawon!” My dick’s rock hard. Poking through my sleepwear.

For the first time since my university life. I’ve masturbated with someone in my mind. Lee Gawon, and her fucking teasing caused this. I remembered her stunning face, her long legs, and her freaking pancakes.

March 2, 2026, Monday.

It’s Monday, another tiring morning in class. Lectures and design problems are draining every last bit of my body, and the worst is, we’re not done yet.

“Hey, you’re dozing off already?” A woman said, sliding the chair beside me and took a seat.

“I’m not. I’m just meditating.” I said, straightened up my posture and looked at her whose seated beside me. She’s my seatmate most of the time.

Her name is Kim Minji. Another beauty in my life, and I’m grateful for that. She is known on campus for her classic elegance and actress-like visuals. Minji has a defined, fair-tan skin, brown eyes, and dark hair.

I’m honestly attracted to her the first time we met.

“Meditating? For what? To improve your sleep?” She said, She’s very savage to me, and I like it.

“You know, I work my ass off. But hey, you’re the one to talk, you listen to lectures and don’t understand anything after.” I fired back. We’re close enough to toast each other without being offended. I think?

…

In the middle of the class, we were working side by side in our drafting class. Standing at the respective drafting table, we’re focused on finishing our plate drawing.

“Is that a shit?” She just said my work looks like shit. I know it was meant to be a joke, but my ego takes it as an insult. Yes, I’m short-tempered, especially since I’m drained right now.

“Well, I’ll take it. Yours looks ass.”I retaliate by saying her work looks ass. Did it work? I think it’s not; instead, she smiled.

“It means it’s nice!” She said, somehow she’s happy and I don’t get it.

“What’s the logic?” I’m intrigued. Why did she take it as if it were a compliment?

“My ass is nice, so is my drawing too. It’s ass, right?” She explained.

What the hell is wrong with her, I thought. And what the hell is also wrong with me? My ass instantly checked her ass under her black skirt. I didn’t have a clear sight of it; however, the shape is noticeable. Now, I wonder why she dressed like that in drafting class?

“Checking me out in broad daylight?” She noticed. Am I doomed?

“I’m trying to find the nice part that you're saying.” I tried to play it out.

“Well, too bad I’m not that easy.” She shut all the possibilities.

A few hours of drafting had passed. Our hands are covered with paint, pen marks, and smudges.

…

After that drafting class, we both proceed to another room. It’s a 5-minute walk since it’s located in the next building. It’s history time. We both sat side by side, it’s our routine. The door opened, and the professor of history entered.

The ageless Professor Kim Ji-Won. She’s 33, I remembered looking for any information about her on the net the moment I saw her. She had what they call a circular face shape, drooping eyes, which makes her look innocent and cold at the same time. Students were scared of her but still praised her beauty. In fact, some students chose to be humiliated by her rather than passing.

Does she have a partner? None. News said she’ll kill everyone who hits on her. I don’t believe it, in fact, I saw some of her co-workers trying to flirt with her and they are still alive. Though I never thought they succeeded since she’s still single up to now.

“Skirt again, nice”, I whispered.

“What? Did you say something?” Minji caught me saying nonsense. Fortunately, it’s a blur.

“Nothing. Don’t forget to take notes.” I reminded her, even though I know she won’t understand a thing that fast if it’s from a lecture.

The lecture went smoothly and clearly. I hope the same goes for Minji since she took notes and had all ears on anything Ms Kim said, yet she scratched her head multiple times. I’ve seen it already. She messed up.

“Any more questions?” Ms Kim asked. It was quiet; I could feel their fear because of her cold aura. For some reason, the tone of her voice turns me in. It’s mature and seductive.

“Hey you, worn-out kid, any question?” She asked. Is she talking to me?

“Y-yes? Nothing Ms Kim.” I answered, but I wonder why of all the people, it’s me.

“Come to my office later.” Ms Kim said with a usual cold toned voice.

“Y-yes Ms.” I answered, I’m still puzzled. What did I do wrong? Or did I do something wrong at least.

“Hey, you’re dead meat.” Minji whispered to me with a grin on her face.

“Look who’s talking, we’ll have a quiz next week, better study what you wrote.” I fired back.

“W-what!? Really???” She panicked. It’s always fun to tease her but I’m slightly worried that if she doesn't pass this semester, I’ll be alone.

…

Knock. Knock.

I knocked on the solid walnut door, it’s Ms Kim's office door. I can sense a terrifying aura from the inside. No surprise that other male students were scared of her.

“Come in.” I heard a faint voice inside.

I entered her office. The first thing I noticed was that the fragrance, sweet and chic perfume hit my nose. There are 3 working humidifiers in each corner that covers the room in mist. Smoke alarms might detect it but she had it removed since I saw nothing and only the screw hole remains.

Her space was more spacious than I expected. An executive table at the middle, slightly far back, with a matching high-back leather chair. 4-single seater chesterfield lounge chair in the center, made for visitors.

But where is she?

“Lock the door.” She ordered and I obeyed. I still had no clue where she was

“Hello Ms Kim, did I do something wrong?” I asked while slowly stepping inside and shut the door behind me with a soft click.

“Nothing.” She said, her voice came from below her table. “Actually, I’m just concerned.” She said emerging from below. Her nose crinkled as if something was hurting her.

“Oh, about what? But before that, are you okay Ms? I asked, she must be in pain since I can hear a low groan from her.

“It’s nothing. I’m fine, just a sprain.”, She said and followed up by another groan.

“I don’t think so, let me see.”, I said and without thinking it thoroughly, I went to her behind the desk.

“You don’t have to- ahh!” She objects but it’s late. I already kneeled down, grabbed her ankles and checked her right ankle.

“This is not just ‘nothing’. It’s swollen.” I can tell how painful it was by just looking at it.

“Ms Kim, let me get a-” I looked up. Her face is red and I realized I just made a huge mistake.

My hands were hot against her cold ankle. My head was eye-level with her hips while she sat and I kneel. My eyes slowly wander from the bottom. On her manicured toes, small feet, on her swollen ankle, then to her smooth thighs, next to her milky thighs, and to her… skirt. It ended.

Finally I saw her face. Am I about to die? I thought. I’m ready to narrate my own version of ending prayer. But, what is this? Her head turned sideways, looking at the door while her elbows on the table and her chin rested on her palm.

She’s blushing.

And I’m hard, reciprocating her reactions.

“Sorry.” I was about to let go of her ankle when she stopped me.

“It’s fine! I mean… It still hurts.” I found her reaction cute.

“Should I give it a massage? I think it’s better to put cold compress on it.” I suggested which is actually the best thing I can do for now.

“Can you try?” She said while looking right straight to my eyes.

I slowly pressed and rubbed the swollen part. Her body responded with spasms and twitching. I found her reaction so sexy, it’s as if she’s about to climax.

“Shit! My dick’s so hard right!” I shift my position slightly to conceal my raging boner.

“Ngggh!” I pressed too hard on one point. Her moan exploded at that moment.

“Fuck! Her moan’s so fucking hot.” Her deep voice decorated her moans in such a tempting way.

Every time I rubbed, she would moan and every time I applied more pressure, it went louder. At some point when her body twitches, she’ll pull her legs from me which causes her skirt to go up. I can see it, her milky thighs and her black underwear. I pressed it harder, and her skirt went up farther, black with flower patterns!

“Ahhhh!” She grabbed my hand on her ankle, stopping my rubbing. “Sit over there.” She added. She points at one of the chairs in the center. I nodded instantly, stood up, and went over there. I’m scared I might lose my life.

She also stood up, fixing her skirt and limping towards the chair across from me. I took a look at her once again, and all I can say is pretty, all over again.

“I want you to focus. We want you to compete for the upcoming Interior Design Competition which is next month.” She explained.

All the reactions I saw from her earlier instantly went away. Her cold and fierce aura are back. I can tell she’s serious.

“Sorry, but I don’t think I can compete with that.” Honestly, I want to compete but I don’t have any time to spare and prepare. I also heard that the benefits of joining the competition are great.

“Don’t decide hastily, think about it.” She said, crossing her arms and legs, then leaned on the chair. “Consider it, we actually can’t risk sending other students knowing you’re even better than your seniors.” She added in a very serious tone.

“Think of this as a good opportunity as well. If you win, you’ll have a solid resume already in just your freshman year.” She got a point. “But, there’s a downside.” She grinned.

“What is it?” I’m curious what it should be.

“You’ll be stuck with us for the next month until the competition. We need to assure you’re committed and bring the gold for us.” She stated. A whole month with Ms Kim, does she think I’m the same as other students who're scared of her?

“I’ll think about it.” On second thought, I might consider it. Great credentials, experience, and Ms Kim for a month.

“Good.” Ms Kim smiled at me. I wonder if I’ll see that beautiful smile every time I accept the offer.

“Then, excuse me.” I bid my good bye with a bow and turned around. When I’m about to reach the door, she spoke.

“Control yourself next time, it’s poking.” She said and I looked at her, curious what the hell did she mean.

…

“Oh shit!.” I completely forgot my boner. She’ll think I’m a pervert, she’ll avoid me now.

“It’s fine, I know men.” She said, I’m freakingly embarrassed and about to storm out of the room to get the hell out of here when she spoke, again.

“If you’ll accept the offer, I’ll offer you something in return.” She offered. It sounds interesting, especially given our current situation.

“What is it?” I asked.

“You’ll join the competition and win”, She said. I’m interested in what she’ll offer. There’s part of me which ignites all my thoughts, it’s basically lust.

“Then?” I said, there’s part of me which ignites all my thoughts, it’s basically lust.

“Then I’ll grant anything you wish, mind you that I’m no damn millionaire, be sure to wish what you think I can do.” That’s a tempting offer.

“Anything?”

“Yes, anything.”

It’s at the tip of my tongue. I’ll ask it.

…

Good thing I hold my urge to ask for sex, maybe after I win? Wait, I forgot that I’ll think about it. That’s actually a very tempting offer. I left her office after that intense meeting.

The time I entered the catffeine, there was a minimal to no volume of customers. Thankful for that since I need some time to regain my energy. I went straight to the locker room and changed into our café uniform.

My shift comes fast. Customers come and go, nothing special happens except Sooin needs to leave earlier than expected, leaving Gawon and me.

I heard a loud thud and scream in the locker room. In an instant, I hurriedly ran towards the room and slammed the door open. The first thing I saw was a pair of lacy red matching underwear.

...

“Sorry. I wasn-” There's flying heels, is it possible? Yes, especially if it was thrown. It hit my head; luckily, the heels didn’t poke my eyes.

“GET. OUT!” Gawon yelled; it echoed in the empty café.

I moved out before she wrecked the shit out of me. But my memory is clear. I remember it crystal clear. I have got a photographic memory for an instant.

Her red lace underwear hugged her bosom and hips perfectly; it’s like a tailored fit for her. The design is so intricate, there’s a mix of flowers and ribbon laces. Just as I imagined, her “pancakes” are cute, but they are beginning to grow in me. The size doesn’t matter.

“Ouch…” I just felt the pain in my head.

After a while, she got out of the locker room. Now wearing a baggy white shirt up to her upper knees. I was sitting in our usual spot at the round table. She sat down across from me, as usual.

“Ouch…” Pressing the ice pack into my forehead absorbed the impact.

“Sorry, but you should knock. Like you always do.” Gawon sounded annoyed, but she laughed afterwards.

“I thought something happened to you; there’s a loud smashing sound inside, so I panicked”, I explained my actions.

“I thought I saw a roach for a minute, but it turns out to be just a candy wrapper.” She explained hers. “Throw your waste into the trash!” She added.

“It’s not mine, try Sooin, she's been chewing like a goat all day. But hey, honestly, I didn’t see anything, so calm down.” I said which is obviously a lie. “I never thought heels could fly”, I added while keeping the ice pack pressed.

“Want to see it one more time?” She asked with a grin.

“The flying heels or your red lacy underwear?” I answered, teasing her for revenge.

“You said you saw nothing!” She yelled.

“Oh yeah, there’s no-thing…” I emphasise nothing.

“Huh?...” She’s thinking.

“You motherfu-” she got it.

“Just kidding! Okay? That really worked you up.” Raising both hands. I surrendered before she got mad once again.

“No, I’m still fine. Besides, you say you like mine more than Sooin and Karina.” She smiled, she’s really happy because of that.

“Is that really a big deal?” I asked.

“Of course, it is. I’m always insecure about my chest; finding someone who likes it, it just feels nice.” She smiled while explaining, and I could see her blush at some point.

What’s this? Her smile, since when it looked so good? Why is she so pretty today? I-it’s weird.

I can feel my insides starting to burn. I suddenly felt happy to see her happy. Now, I want to please her every time. Is it affection? Happiness? Love? I don’t know. There’s another option that’s on the very corner of my mind, is it lust?

We’re both quiet for a while, sipping coffee and scrolling on our phones. I steal a glance, and I saw her steal some from me too.

There’s a confession I’d like to make. There’s something weird which I tried to ignore. It happens that my eyes always wanted to take a look at her chest, every time.

When she was grinding coffee beans, I looked at her chest. When she was on a break and scrolling on her phone, I looked at it. Every time she asks me to serve coffee, my gaze automatically finds her chest.

I wonder if she notices. If she did, would she let me do it? I remember Sooin let me look at her breasts through her fitted blue shirt last Sunday.

“There’s no way, right? She almost killed me when I saw her earlier in her undies.” I’m thinking like a maniac right now; it’s no good.

“Should I try?” There’s another freaking voice in my mind. I can’t stop it.

“The offer’s still up?” I asked, even though I didn’t know what the fuck I just asked her.

“Hmm? About what?” She asked. Her focus shifts to me.

“Pancakes.” I looked at her, expressing my sincerity.

Why did I ask her that!? What the hell is wrong with me? Man!

“Offer’s down. It expired.” She smiled and answered. She remembers it, the last message she sent to me last night.

I’d lie if I said that I’m not disappointed. Well, I got my hopes high for a minute. I think it’s better this way. I didn’t cross the line, and we keep our friendship.

“Too bad.” I laughed, and she joined me.

We sipped our coffees at the same time, it’s awkward, but felt warm at the same time. Then, she looked at me, and my eyes met hers.

She’s way more beautiful than I remember. Is she always this pretty? Or does my heart tell my mind to think of her as the prettiest? She suddenly spoke as my mind analysed what the hell happened.

“Are you seeing someone right now?” She asked. She shyly lowered her head when she asked it, completely avoiding my eyes.

“Uhm, none. Too busy for that, I guessed.” Her question caught me off guard. Did I answer her right? I think not. I just rejected her right away. I'm trash.

“I guess I’m right.” She thought of my answer already. “Wanna go out tomorrow?” She added. Her eyes fixated on her cup while her finger traced its lip.

“Huh…uh… for real?” I’m freaking dumb.

“Yes, of course.” She laughed. Thankfully, she didn’t take back what she asked. I should take it.

“What makes you think I’m joking?” I was about to answer back when she added. Her vision is now back at me. Is she mad? I don’t think so. Is she offended? Might be.

“Oh, sorry. I thought you were just teasing, you know, as usual.” I laughed, trying to ease the building tension. She didn’t laugh, she just stared, then smiled.

“Well, just to let you know, I’m being serious right now. I think I like you.” She didn’t even stutter. She said in full confidence, I can tell she’s serious.

Does she like me? Since when? No, the right question is why and how.

“Sorry, I-I don’t know what to say. But, let’s go out tomorrow, I guess?” I’m answering like a kid full of doubt, and I hate it. My mind goes blank, a pretty lady named Gawon, like me.

“Why not sure? Do I still look like I'm joking?” I can feel Gawon’s building annoyance.

“No, it’s not like that”, I answered. She looks mad now.

“Then you think I’m just telling lies? Why? Is it because I turned down that pancake offer?” I can feel it, I’m done, but why did it go to pancakes once again?

“I-” She didn’t even let me finish.

“Fine, the offer’s up again. Taste them damn pancakes.” She straightened her posture while sitting.

She quickly grabbed the hem of her oversized white shirt. Stripped it off in an instant and threw it to the table next to ours.

“But we’ll have our date tomorrow.” She said, reaching behind her back.

I’m still trying to process what is happening. She stripped her shirt, and I saw them again, the holy red lace bra that hugged her humble peaks. That leaves her body with only her black leather shorts and boots.

It’s not over yet. I wonder what her right hand is doing at her back. She stood up. I can see her bra loosened in the front. There’s no doubt about it, she unclasped them.

She closed the distance, slid in front of me, sat on the table, and crossed her long legs. She had black leather shorts under her baggy shirt. Her hips are at my eye-level, but my gaze isn’t on them; it’s way up there.

She used her left arm to support the undies, then, slowly, her left bra strap dropped from her shoulder to her arm. Her right arm moved, swiftly slipping through the other strap, freeing it.

“Eyes up here.” She commanded. I was still staring at her chest, which was barely covered by her arm and a semi-stripped off bra.

“Hey! Eyes up here or no tasting.” She knocked on the table, and it caught my attention.

I wanna see it. It’s so tempting, I wanted to see it. I don’t know anymore. I wanna taste it. She’s so hot and dangerous.

She looked at the clock attached to the wall. Its arrows pointed at 6:20 pm. Then she looked back at me.

“5 minutes”, she said.

In an instant, she dropped her red lacy bra on the table. A masterpiece had been free, a work of art. Her naked top is sculpted by the Gods. My eyes feast on her ethereal beauty.

Her skin looks so soft. It’s smooth as well, with faint lights reflecting on it. I knew she was working out; her body is incredibly fit. Her belly is tightly hard and flat, and her arm muscles are noticeable.

Then there’s the main menu, the pancake. For some medium reason, my dick twitched and became rock hard.

Its size surprised me; it wasn’t flat at all. I can call it bite-sized, since I want to take a bite of it already. Her breasts are perky, it is curved perfectly. At her mountain peaks, there are her perfect areolae with her rosy buds in the middle, standing proud.

“It’s freaking cold. Start moving, 5-minutes are fast if you forget.” She definitely felt cold. I can see her cherries standing; it’s solidifying.

I kept on admiring her naked breast and didn’t notice time ticking fast. She reminded me already, but I’m too focused on her.

“4 minutes left, you idiot.” She said. Something’s snapped on my head. I can’t let this opportunity go to waste.

In a rush, I stood up and grabbed her left tit with my right hand. My hand weight caused her body to slightly move backwards. She placed both of her hands on her sides at the table to keep her balance.

“Gently, please. Hmmm.” She demanded, and I fondled it.

“Is this fine?” I asked her while I kept on fondling it like a stress ball.

It’s unbelievably elastic, smooth and glassy. My fingers can feel her tiny hairs standing up from the cold. My thumb brushed over her pebbled buds. Her body shook the instant my thumb made contact with it.

I switched on her right tit and repeated the process. Then I grabbed both and compressed them in the middle. Her tiny cleavage looks enticing. Now I want to see how she looks in a tight-fitting dress which clutched her humble peaks.

“Hmm, you have almost 3 minutes left.” Gawon nodded and moaned at the same time. Her hands make a fist, her knuckles turned white.

“Hey, you gonna smack me?” I’m scared of my life, I know this isn’t free.

“No, you idiot. I’m fighting over myself. Mind your own business, hmm”, she said. “3 minutes left, you gonna eat it or what?” She added. She’s actually stopping herself from the urge to grab my head and pull it into her chest.

“Better to eat it before it turns really cold.” I gave both of them one last squeeze before focusing on her left tit.

I gently gripped it, and her hard cherry poked out. I stuck my tongue out and flicked it on her buds. Her body shook once more in contact.

“Hmm!” Gawon let out a moan. She found it embarrassing so she lifted her right hand off the table and used it to cover her mouth.

“Oh god”, I said. I feel my body burning in lust the moment I hear her moan.

“2 minutes.” She said.

I panicked when I heard it. Why do I only have 2 minutes left? Is it because time flies when we are enjoying it, or is 5 minutes just too short? I need to hurry, 2 minutes is not enough to savour it.

“Ahhmmp!” Without wasting any more seconds, I take it in. Opening my mouth the widest I could, I crashed it on her tit. I can’t believe my lips bounced in the softness of her tit, even on its size.

“Ahhn! Hmp!” There it is once again. Her lovely moan, every time I hear it, something inside me ignites. My dick’s rock hard already, but it keeps getting harder and harder.

I twirl my tongue over her rosy buds, every receptor my tongue has to taste her. Its tip swept areolae and smooth skin.

“1:30. Hmm.” Her breathing started to go deep.

I hurriedly sucked her nipples before my time ran out. Switching my suctions from left to right. It tasted sweet and lightly salty due to the dried sweat since we just got off from work.

I sucked her nips gently, savouring their taste. My nose didn’t get its rest either; it's been blessed by her expensive perfume since the start. My nose pressed into her skin while sucking. I smelled her luxurious body lotion.

“Ahhggg!” She didn’t hold back or cover her moans this time. It’s always a pleasure to hear that moan; my ear’s been missing it ever since I heard it earlier.

“Angg! 1.. 1 minute! Ahhh!” She can’t even speak straight due to pleasure. “Shit…” She added. She can feel her cunt burn; she’s wet down there.

“Hmm. 5 minutes is too short for these pancakes!” I said, temporarily refrained from sucking, then dove back in.

“Hmm. You’re just slow.” She replied. “30 seconds.” She added, 30 seconds remaining.

“W-wait!” I sucked aggressively for the last 30 seconds. Switching left to right, I fondle her available breast once my mouth switches to the other side. I pinched her nipple, and it caused her body to tremble.

“T-times up!” She grabbed my head with both hands while I kept on sucking. I noticed she wasn’t even pushing me away, so I kept on pressing.

“H-hey… stop already! Hmmm.” Now she tapped my head, but still she didn’t push me away.

I want to keep on pushing. She didn’t push me even when my time was up. Maybe I will push my luck and see how far I can go.

My hands landed on her long thighs. I can tell that she took care of it as my hand slides on it smoothly. No scars, just soft, thin hairs and warm glass skin.

My hands were on her thighs, and I kept sucking her, but still, she didn’t push me away. She kept on tapping my head lightly.

Farther, I thought.

My hands go up and undid the button of her black leather shorts. She didn’t protest. I searched for her zipper and slid it down. Still no protest.

Once her shorts loosened, I swiftly slid them down to her thighs, just enough for me to see her red lace underwear one more time.

There’s a very visible damp spot on it. Its shape is familiar. There’s no doubt, it's from her slit. She’s very wet at the moment based on how wet her panty is.

This is it.

I used my index finger to poke the damp spot. It’s incredibly soaked. She shook and moaned in the contact. I still kept my mouth busy sucking on her nipples.

“Hmm. Ya-yah… stop already.” She said, but her actions didn’t match.

I can see a line that mimics carving. It’s her slit, the soaked panty hugging her pussy like a second skin. I’ve used the same index finger to brush that line through the fabric.

“Ahhnng!!” Another moan, but there’s no begging for stopping this time.

I brushed it up and down using my finger, then my finger flicked on a grain over the top of the line. I give it another flicked and she moans louder. It’s her clit.

I sucked her tits and gave her clit another flick before using my thumb and index finger to pinch it. Her moans mixed with her groans. The damp spot widened.

I got to stall another 3 minutes on our agreement, when we both heard 2 loud knocks on the door. We’re both surprised, both eyes opened and looking in the same direction.

Knock! Knock!

“Hey guys! I know you’re there! Light’s still open. I left my philosophy notes in the locker room. Open this up.” The voice sounds familiar; it’s Kim Sooin.

The session's over. Thankfully, the door’s locked and the shades are down over the windows.

My mouth let go of her right breast with a pop. We hurriedly tidy things up. I sat straight while sweeping my sweaty body.

Gawon prioritised sliding back up her shorts, zipping them, and fastening the buttons. Then she picked up her bra, put it back, concealing her wet breast. Lastly, she picked her white baggy shirt from the other table.

She’s fast, but my heart beats faster. She’s so pretty, I’m enchanted. I regained my focus when she talked to me.

“Hey! How do I look?” She asked, whispering.

“Stunning, pretty, gorgeous, lovely”, I answered almost instantly.

“Not that!” She sighed.

“Hmm. Tasty?” I answered truthfully, I actually wanted to have a taste of it again.

“This guy. I mean, do I look normal? Or do I look like I just got devoured by some midgy?” She cleared what she meant.

“Back to midgy again.” I smiled. “You look normal”, I answered her question.

Knock! Knock!

“Hey guysss!” Sooin knocked again.

“Wait! We’re cleaning!” Gawon answered her with a louder voice. She eyed me, and I got it.

I stood up and hurriedly went to the utility room to get a mop or any cleaning equipment.

Sooin later on got to enter the shop after Gawon opened the door. She spotted me mopping at the corner and greeted me.

“Hi! I’m back!” Sooin’s energy is still on top even though it’s already 6:30 in the evening. Exactly 10 minutes after Gawon let me eat her.

She slipped past us and straight to the locker room. Gawon and I looked at each other. It somehow became awkward, which I feared. I’m scared of losing our friendship.

Sooin, Gawon, and I eventually go our separate ways. There’s no interaction between Gawon and me after that. Although we’re both stealing glances at one another.

I was lying in my bed, staring at the ceiling, again. Thinking, why did I do it? I messed up our friendship. I should’ve pushed it. I should’ve stopped when 5 minutes were over.

Ting. Ting.

My phone rings, messages. I picked it up from the nightstand beside me. Messages from Gawon.

—

Hey, don’t forget. We have a date tomorrow.

Dress comfortably, okay? No pressure.

Yes. Okay.

Gawon…

Yes? Don’t tell me you won’t come?

I’ll rip your tongue out if you won’t.

I’m coming, don’t worry.

I’m just.

We’re cool, right?

Yes, don’t think about it.

Although my nipples are swollen right now. You’ve sucked it hard.

Oh.

Sorry about that.

Gawon sent a photo.

Gawon sent a photo.

—

“Huh? What’s th- oh my gawon…” I’m speechless the moment I saw what she sent.

The first photo was angled from the top, just below her neck. She’s topless, the image focuses on her bust. Her breasts were perky as the last time I looked at them.

The second photo was a close-up of her breast, her swollen nipple in particular. It’s an extremely high-quality photo to the point that I can clearly see some tiny pores on her areola. I can see why she sent it, to rant. It's noticeably swollen.

A message from her followed up after the photos.

—

Be gentle next time.

See you tomorrow

Good night!

Yeah, good night

—

“Did I read it right?” I second look at my screen.

“Next time… and she didn’t even mention anything about what I did?” I don’t know whether I should open it up with her and apologise or just let it be and look forward.

I contemplated a lot of things that night. I also masturbated to pictures she sent. I still can’t believe it happened.

March 3, 2026. Tuesday.

It’s Tuesday morning, fortunately, class was suspended since the professor had something to do. Gawon and I will have our first date. Am I happy? Yes, absolutely.

It’s raining outside, so I had to go for a convenient outfit. A simple white tee with matching blue jeans. Just like regular days, hoping Gawon won’t smack the shit out of me.

After a taxi ride, I’m now pretty sure Gawon will kill me. I’m 30 minutes late since traffic was hectic. It’s a park near catffeine. I looked for her, I didn’t try to call her since I’m already late and calling her might be a bad idea, she might cuss me.

There she is, a tall lady standing outside a restaurant. Oh, heavenly Gods, she’s beautiful, really, really beautiful. She’s standing with a clear umbrella in her hand as a shield against the rain.

She wore a single black dress with its hem perfectly cut above her thighs. Her long legs are always eye candy. We both wear simple clothes, but hers look elegant.

I took a deep breath, mustering the courage to face her. I’m 30 minutes late and barely making it. I approached her slowly. Unfortunately, she saw me, and she had the first words before I did.

“Hey, I thought you wouldn’t show up.” She smiled. I don’t know what’s running through her mind right now. “I was actually about to crash every place where you might be and rip you into pieces.” She added. She’s mad.

“Hey, pretty.” I wasn’t supposed to say that, but it slipped since I’m charmed by her beauty.

“Hmm?” She smiled. The damn smile.

“I mean! I’m pretty sorry.” I explained, but her smile tells me that her anger’s now completely gone in an instant.

“Say it again.” She tells me.

I don’t want to make the same mistake all over again. I don’t want to be that dense all my life. My heart and mind worked as one for the first time. I know what she wanted me to say.

“Pretty… you’re pretty.” I’ve said it. My heart beat fast, my hands were cold, and nervously anticipating what she would say.

“You’re so pretty, Gawon.” A word that I didn’t intend to say but came out of my mouth.

She nodded. I can tell she’s more than satisfied when she heard it.

The rain stopped, as if the weather gave us its blessing. We stood there for a while, smiles on our faces. The sun started to shine. Moods already up, but it keeps getting brighter.

She hopped on my side, then hooked her arm with mine. She’s warm and smells nice too.

“So, what do you want to do?” She asked me.

“Hmm. I don’t know, but movies and parks, I guess? But the decision’s yours.” I answered truthfully since I genuinely had no idea.

“Got it. Our first date, let’s go?” She looked at me lovingly, and I nodded.

We spent our day well. The weather has been good ever since. We walked side by side, her arms hooked on mine, and sometimes her fingers found their way to interlock with mine.

We had a fancy lunch in a high-end restaurant, which she booked in advance. I insist on paying for it, but she already did; she asked me to pay for our movie instead, which I suggested earlier.

In the afternoon, we walked along the Han River. Talked about our lives and other things we loved. We talked comfortably since we both know each other well. Well, I tried to change the topic once I found it was going to my family. I wanted to avoid it, I hope she considers.

We had dinner at a casual eatery, in contrast to the place where we had our lunch. She also had reservation for it and admitted she didn’t want me to feel uncomfortable.

I’m thankful for it and felt useless since it appears that she did all the work on preparing our date. Then, we decided to call it for the day once we got back to our meeting place.

When we were walking side by side, on the way to where we met earlier. Fingers interlocked firmly, and our arms brushed on every step we made.

But there’s a question which has been bugging my mind ever since.

We lock arms, we intertwine fingers, we act like a couple. But what are we? I wanted to ask her that, but I’m scared of her answer.

What are we?

“I like you. I don’t mind going out with you. Like this.” She said, I didn’t notice that she looked at me multiple times while we were walking. She actually analysed what was running through my mind.

“Huh? Ahh. You caught me.” I’m puzzled, but I accepted the fact that she got me.

“You’re like an open book for a moment.” She said and then smiled. That smile, which became my weakness.

“Am I?” I guess she also knew what I would answer to her question, too. “So what are we? Right now.” I added, looking straight at the road. I felt her grip on my hand tighten.

“I explained first and gave my answer. I have two reasons out of many that I feel like I should tell you.”

“First, I want you to know that you make me feel special. I’ve met a lot of guys, and they’re all the same, hitting me just because I’m pretty and rich.” She said she looks straight at the road just like me.

“How can you be sure I’m not the same as them?” I asked. I wanted to know since what she said described me as well, as I know.

“You really didn’t know, did you? How you care about me, us, and how you act like a prince while treating us like princesses. I can feel your sincerity and honesty.” She explained straightforwardly.

“Now, I want to be your only princess. Make Sooin and others slaves.” She added and laughed outloud, it made me laugh too. “Wait, slaves too much. Since I’m the only princess now, make them an offspring of a royal at least.”

“I guessed that’s true, and I have no idea.” I replayed everything that happened to us, and every bit of it was special. “That’s the first reason, what’s second?”

“You’re existence. I just need you. This might sound weird, but I need you.” We stopped walking and faced one another.

“I like you, and I want us to continue.” Gawon looked at me. I can sense her sincerity.

Time momentarily stopped for me. The cold breeze of the night suddenly became a tropical blow of air. Is this real? I asked myself repeatedly.

What should I answer?

Why am I asking that?

I like her. I want her.

“I want you too. Can we? Uhm, you know. I mean! Are we?” I stuttered at the last minute, but I’ve said it.

She let go of my hand. Her hands found my face, and both warm palms landed on my cheeks. She leaned in.

My mind went blank for a second. Instantly, her lips were already pressed against mine. I kissed her back. Gentle and sensual kisses.

“Pwah.. haa.. I guessed it’s official.” She’s catching her breath while confirming it.

We’re official. I know it happened fast, but what’s important is we’re together.

We bid goodbye later that night. She was fetched by her driver, and I took a bus and subway. We both got home safely and minded our own business.

It’s passed 11:00 pm when I heard my phone ring. I was sitting at my study table, reviewing lectures. I checked my phone, and it’s from “Gawon-e and only”.

If it was myself from a few days ago, I would definitely find it cringe.

—

Hey, you’re still busy? I miss you already.

Well, I just got done showering, if you won’t ask.

Nope, I’m good. Just reading some lectures.

I want to share something with you.

What is it?

I’ve sent a photo of her contact info, which saved her as “Gawon-e and only”

Before you cringe, it’s my first time. Okay?

♡♡♡

I LOVE IT!!

What do you mean by “cringe”? I like it.

Hope you changed me from “midgy” to something else already, haha.

I’ve changed it to something else.

Come check tomorrow, haha.

Yeah, I will.

Well, good night! See you tomorrow!

Love you! ♡♡♡

Good night!

Love you too! ♡

—

My smiles never fade. Our relationship is really on another stage now. This is not a drill, it’s reality. Lee Gawon, whom others praised and wished for, is my girlfriend.

I placed my phone to my side and continued reading my lectures for a while before going to bed and calling it a night. I’m excited about what's ahead of us.

(Gawon’s POV 5 months ago)

October 9, 2025. Thursday.

“Gosh, it’s raining hard.” I walked on the pavement, umbrella in my right hand. It wasn’t supposed to rain this hard. It’s autumn, but the rain isn’t giving autumn vibes. 

“Huh? Oh! Careful!” I saw a girl playing when her balloon flew straight to the middle of the road.

I’ve seen a sedan driving on the road. The loud sound of the brake caught the attention of all the people.

“No!!!” We screamed, the sedan might hit the girl.

“KAORI-CHAN!” The voice was loud enough to match the car brakes.

The woman rapidly ran to the kid and acted to save her, but the car might hit them both. Not really smart, but she tried her best.

I can’t watch it. I shut my eyes, but I didn’t hear any impact. I slowly opened it, and saw a guy hug both the woman and the little girl.

Thankfully, they avoided the car, which probably would have hit them if the guy hadn’t saved them.

“You’re both okay? That’s no fun if you guys play like that in the middle of the road.” He scolded them.

He has a backpack, is he a student? In what department? Thank goodness he saved them.

“Ahh! I’m late! You guys should be careful next time!” The guy shouted as he ran. He’s definitely a student.

“W-wait!” The woman he saved said. She’s pretty, more like a doll than a human. Is she foreign?

“Oh shoot! I’m also late!” I ran too as soon as I looked at my watch.

…

That was boring. Classes full of lectures, obviously. Why can’t classes be about fashion? Why does it have to be philosophy? Anyways, I should grab a coffee. 

I was about to enter a coffee shop named “Catffeine” when I saw a man in the alley beside the shop.

“Eat slowly. Look at your belly.” He’s squatting on the ground. He smiled and watched carefully, a cat.

I watched him feed the stray cat. But I feel some sense of familiarity. I just noticed, it’s the same guy who saved the woman and the little girl earlier.

“Cute”, I said, I can’t help but smile.

I entered the coffee shop and was greeted by a girl with perfectly cut bangs. Her nametag states “Sooin”. She’s pretty.

“1 cold cafe americano, please”, I ordered. After that, I sat at the table near the window.

“Name?” This girl Sooin sounds bored.

“Gawon”, I answered with matched boredom.

After a while, my coffee arrived. I doodled my name on the tissue. Gawon, with the letter “O” had cat ears on it.

“Table 3, 1 cold cafe americano Ms. Gawon?” There it is, finally. That guy served my drink.

“Huh?” I noticed my name has some drawings in it. The letter “O” in Gawon had cat ears. The same as mine.

Is it a coincidence?

“I’m sorry, our barista forgot to write your name, so I did and the cat ears… sorry about that, maybe a habit.”

“No, it’s fine. It’s… cute.” I said, and he smiled.

“Very cute.” I felt something that I have never felt. What’s this? My heart beat fast, and my curiosity spiked up.

“Thanks! Then… enjoy your coffee.” He left. I feel something inside me has left too, a piece of a puzzle which makes me incomplete.

“What the hell is happening to me?” I watched him serve drinks to others. He sometimes cleans the tables, arranges the chairs, and bickers with Sooin.

“Hmm.”

I’m done with my coffee and about to leave when I saw a piece of paper pasted near the door.

Hiring Barista

October 13, 2025. Monday.

“Hi! I’m Lee Gawon! Nice to meet you!” I greeted them cheerfully.

“Finally had some help! Nice to meet you!” I remember her. Sooin also cheered. I’m looking forward to working with her.

“Nice to meet you, I hope we get along well.” He offered his hand. My heart beats fast. What is this?

When I was about to shake it, Sooin took it instead.

“Aye aye, captain!” Sooin said.

“Hey, not you, bird brain.” He slipped his hand off her. The moment it was free, I took it. Why did I hurry? Anyway, I shook it.

I don’t need money, I just need to be here. With him. It feels like I just want to be here.

We exchanged contact information. I saved Sooin as “Sooin”, nothing special, while I saved him as “Cat”.

March 4, 2026. Wednesday.

It’s afternoon at the coffee shop, and we’re about to take our shift. Bidding good byes on the morning shift employee whom we occasionally talked to.

“Bye.” A girl with long, silky black hair named Jennie said goodbye to me. She's pretty like the others; her hair might be her asset.

“Bye. Have a nice shift.” Added by another girl with an innocent-like face named Arin. Another goddess in flesh, literally in flesh, what I mean is her body looks good. It’s not that I'm checking her out. Her body is always telling me that I should look into it. I actually wanted to hit on her a few months ago, but too bad our shift’s different. Time will really matter for us.

That’s one of many reasons why Catffeine’s popular. The beauties. I’m lucky to have Gawon. Speaking of, Gawon has clung to me ever since we met this day. Casually clinging her arm over mine. Surprisingly, Sooin didn’t even let out a single reaction. I wonder if she already saw us when we act like a couple.

When they leave, I just noticed that every time their shift ends, they’re like zombies. Mindless, exhausted, and rushing to go home. In contrast to the girl who just slammed the door, 2 minutes after Arin and Jennie left.

“We’re back!” Karina stormed the café right after she entered.

“Hello.” Ryujin followed Karina behind. She sounded so drained.

I already explained how beautifully stunning Sooin and my girlfriend Gawon are. But these two, Karina and Ryujin, are at the same level as those two. I wonder why these beauties are still single, except for my Gawon, of course.

“Finally!” Gawon yelled when she saw the two.

“Hey! Nice to see you two back!!!” Sooin jumped in joy, went straight to the two. She, Gawon and Karina hop in a circle like bunnies while Ryujin’s like a ragdoll following them.

I watched them with a smile. I remembered that I promised that I’ll be good on the two.

“Hey, glad you're both back safe and sound”, I said.

The hopping stopped. They all looked in my direction. Sooin and Gawon were all smiles, they already know that I’ll keep my promise.

Meanwhile, Karina and Ryujin had completely different reactions. Their eyes widened and mouth’s agape. As if they never really thought I would greet them.

“Oh… thanks!” Ryujin said, the most energetic word she said ever since she came back.

“Yeah, thank you! Look, I bought you some souvenirs!” Karina outmatched her energy before, almost twice as much as she hopped in front of me.

Oh shit, I thought. I saw her globes recoiled when she bounced. The volume was insane. This is not good, I already have Gawon, and it hasn’t even been a day.

“Thanks. So what now? Got to work.” I announced, and they all nodded.

They’ve changed first in the locker room before me since they’re all girls. I wonder what’s going on behind that wall.

My imagination wanders on what might have happened there. I already saw Gawon’s bare top, her image imprinted on my mind. What about Sooin’s meaty frame? Karina’s voluptuous figure? And Ryujin’s tight body?

The door opened, and one by one they got out. Goddess after goddess, after goddess, and my goddess. Gawon is the last one. They’re now in their uniforms. I changed into my uniform after them.

We did our work fluidly. Karina, Ryujin, and I served drinks without a mistake, and our experience really helped daily. Gawon and Sooin, as usual, also do their work with ease.

Time passed rapidly, and once again I walked to the door and then flipped the “OPEN” sign to “CLOSED”. I heard behind the familiar voices of girls talking and laughing outloud, twice the volume this time.

They’re all changed back to their casual fits. The 4-seater table is full-packed, there’s no place for me since all the spaces have been filled. I grabbed a chair from another table, and Gawon scooped some space on her side.

The five of us are now seated. It’s Karina, Ryujin, Sooin, Gawon, and me in circular order. Karina is on my left, and Gawon is on my right.

“How is it? Getting back to work?” Sooin asked Ryujin and Karina.

“Miss it so much, even though I wouldn’t mind going for another vacation”, Karina answered honestly which Ryujin agreed by nodding.

“How about we go overseas next month!?” Sooin excitedly suggests. “Right! Let’s ask that low-volumed girl to ask her dad! And let’s use the ‘Your Daughter Saviour’ card.” she added, describing the owner’s daughter as a low-pitched girl.

“No, absolutely no. And besides, I’m competing in an Interior Design competition.” I want to go with them but I think I know what my choice is regarding Ms Kim’s offer.

“When is that? Why didn't you tell me?” Gawon asked. I forgot to tell her that. I can consider it as a minus boyfriend point.

“It’s next month.” I said. Their looks are screaming disappointment.

“Wow, then let’s go the month after next month?” Karina suggested this time.

“I’ll treat you!” Sooin assured that I don’t have to worry about money.

I looked at Gawon who was staring at me, but to be fair, they all looked at me.

“I think… I’m free…” I’m thinking about how I will manage to get some time for myself, especially some quality time with Gawon.

“Nice!!!” Sooin and Karina were synchronized cheering while Gawon and Ryujin clapped.

“Let’s go where? Bali? Boracay? Maldives? Guam?” Karina’s excitement kicked in, she’s been extra energetic since we met earlier.

“Let’s plan that later, and besides I wanted to announce something.” Gawon sipped on her reward coffee.

“What?” All of them sound puzzled, and even me.

(At the same time, before Gawon’s announcement.)

A black Mercedes Benz stopped at the front of catffeine.

“Is this it?” I asked my driver, who was in black suit. I always told them to dress comfortably when they’re with me since I don’t care about our family policies.

“Yes, Madam Jang.” He answered. That ‘madam Jang’ again. I sat at the back, staring at him through the rear view, but he was like a stone, looking forward 

“It looks… ordinary? Are you sure this is it?” Why did he choose this place in the first place?

“Yes, madam Jang.” Like a robot.

“Okay, just drop me here.” I said with a serious tone, hoping to gain some authority here.

“No, madam, your father asked me to bring you home after checking the university. We have to go back as early as possible.” He said. I think my father still had the highest order.

“Sigh. Then I’ll be quick. I’ll just visit HIM.” I said. There’s no point in arguing with them since no matter what I do, they’ll follow my father.

I opened the car’s door. Heels stepped out and touched the concrete road. The warm spring air clings to my skin. It’s Seoul.

“He chose to stay here?” I’m curious about how he’s doing.

“Closed? I thought he’s here. They should include the operating hours as well. Sigh.” I might have to come back the next day.

“Sorry, we’re close to these hours.” I heard a low voice from behind.

I turned and saw a very beautiful woman. Her beauty might rival mine. She has doll-like features just like me.

“Sorry, I just want to look for some guy”, I said.

“I think I know who you might be looking for.” she smiled. Her beauty elevates to the next level when she smiles.

I can sense danger! I should retrieve him!

“Come in. He still might be inside.”

“Sure, I will.” Of course I will, he’s in there and I’m going to take him back.

Running after our contractual marriage is not a good idea. And what’s worse is that it made me look like I’m chasing him.

Do I? 

She opened the door, and I followed.

(Back to present.)

“It’s special! We’re dating.” She grabbed my hand and raised it together with our fingers interlocked.

…

They’re surprised. Well, I’ll be damn surprised too if I were them.

“What!?” Ryujin’s question is the loudest I have heard from her so far.

“No way!” Karina’s reaction made it look like a forbidden act.

“I knew something was weird!” Sooin actually noticed something, I thought she didn’t.

“No! You can’t!” She sounds familiar. She’s at the back of my mind, she’s someone I know. It’s Wonyoung.

“Oh my…” That voice. It’s Anna-chan.

We didn’t notice the door opening. Now, there are 6 girls surrounding me. 5 of them heard what Gawon announced.

I smell trouble.

To be continued…