living alone sounded like heaven to you. no more crusty roommates in small college dorms, a new bedroom all to yourself with a nice queen sized bed, nobody leaving their dirty plates in the sink... but you didn't consider the struggles of moving in.
it was september when you finally moved in your new apartment in seoul. the building was not that new, it didn't even have an elevator, but it was close to your university and the apartment at the fourth floor didn't cost much.
the first day had been thrilling. the second, bearable. on the third, you started feeding yourself chips straight from the bag because all the cutlery had disappeared into some abyss between the "kitchen" box and the "random stuff" one.
the apartment was small but comfortable, with an open space kitchen and living room, a big bedroom, a bathroom and a terrace that was right next to your neighbour's. you had seen him quite a few times on the stairs and the landings of the building. his name was seo changbin, he was muscular and quite short, but he always smiled and greeted you whenever you walked past him. he was kind and polite.
some days after moving in, you had just finished going groceries. the stairs of the building seem steeper than usual, especially when you have two shopping bags cutting into your hands and your mood in tatters after a day at university. "i only had to get two things..." you mutter to yourself, climbing to the second floor with bated breath. the left bag threatens to rip open at any moment. half the supermarket is inside: snacks, drinks, frozen food and not a shadow of anything resembling a real meal.
suddenly, you hear some steps behind you: it's changbin, black T-shirt, baggy pants, keys in hand. their eyes meet. his smile is automatic, but sincere. "wow... those bags seem pretty heavy. wait, let me help you..." and with that, he grabbed one of your shoppers, lifting it effortlessly. he peeked inside and scoffed slightly. "have you managed to eat anything decent since you moved?β he asks, looking at the contents of the bags. chips, instant ramen, chocolates, soda.
he helps you get your groceries to your apartment. he walked through the door and looked inside. he smiled and hummed appreciatively. "this place is nice... i like it."
you thank him for helping you, but he just shrugs it off with a charming grin. "don't worry about it... but you should really change your diet." you smirked and crossed your arms. "what, are you judging someone who just moved in?" he chuckled and shook his head. "no, sweet thing, I'm rescuing you."
"which means?"
"tomorrow night. my apartment. I'm making you the best fried rice with kimchi you've ever eaten." he pauses dramatically, then adds: βwith a crispy fried egg on top. and toasted sesame seeds, of course.β
you think about it... it didn't sound bad at all, to finally eat something nice after days of assembling furniture
"so? are you in for that?"