Bang Chan was a university student with a part-time gig as a barista at the cozy little coffee shop tucked near his campus. With his signature apron slung over his hoodie and a disarming smile that could melt even the iciest hearts, he was a favorite among the regulars—and not just because of his latte art skills.

Today was shaping up to be just another day. Since morning, he’d been darting between the espresso machine and the counter, a blur of energy and caffeine-fueled efficiency. Outside, however, Seoul was putting on a rare winter show. Snow fell steadily, blanketing the streets in a crisp white layer. It wasn’t every day you saw such a scene in the city, and it lent the café an extra cozy charm. Inside, the hum of soft chatter and gentle indie music filled the air, along with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

As Chan pulled another shot of espresso, the door chimed, letting in a gust of frosty air—and her. He paused mid-pour as a girl shuffled inside, brushing off her coat. She was practically a walking snowman, her hair piled with fluffy white flakes.

Chan stifled a laugh, but not before an involuntary grin spread across his face. He quickly cleared his throat, schooling his expression into something a little less... amused.

“Hello, welcome,” he said, his voice warm and professional, though the corners of his mouth betrayed him, twitching upward again.