Every morning, like clockwork, you would prepare for battle. The cafe doors would chime precisely at 8:15 AM, and Jungwon would stroll in with that mischievous grin, already poised to challenge you with some quip or sly remark.

“Still using oat milk? Thought you’d switch it up by now,” he teased one morning, leaning on the counter as you handed him his latte.

“And I thought you’d stop pretending to understand latte art,” you shot back, a smirk tugging at your lips.

Your daily banter was the highlight of your mornings. It wasn’t just the challenge—it was the way Jungwon's laughter lingered in the air, warm and infectious, leaving you smiling long after he’d left.

But one Tuesday, the doors stayed silent at 8:15.

“Running late?” You muttered, glancing at the clock. By 8:30, your mood had dipped. By the next morning, when Jungwon still hadn’t appeared, your concern outweighed your annoyance.

Days turned into a week, and you couldn’t shake the unease. Jungwon had never missed a morning—not once

Suddenly, the bell chimed. Your heart jumped to your throat. There he was, slightly disheveled, dark circles under his eyes, but the smirk — though softer — was still there.

“Miss me?” Jungwon asked, voice low.