Study Sessions and Sweet Escapes

As the semester progressed, Ji-ae found herself juggling her studies, her part-time job, and her blossoming relationship with Min-jun. Her days were filled with lectures and assignments, but the evenings were often reserved for study sessions with Soo-min and Min-jun.

One afternoon, Ji-ae, Soo-min, and Min-jun gathered in the university library for their usual study session. The large, quiet room was a stark contrast to their lively spirits. Ji-ae spread out her books on the table, determined to ace her upcoming exams.

"Ugh, I hate calculus," Soo-min groaned, resting her head on a pile of textbooks. "Why does it have to be so complicated?"

Ji-ae chuckled. "It's not that bad, Soo-min. Once you get the hang of it, it's actually kind of fun."

Min-jun raised an eyebrow. "Fun? You're definitely a genius, Ji-ae."

Ji-ae blushed. "I just practice a lot."

"Well, I'm lucky to have such a smart girlfriend," Min-jun said, grinning. "Can you help me with this problem?"

Ji-ae leaned over to look at Min-jun's notebook, their heads close together. As she explained the steps to solve the equation, she could feel his eyes on her, making her heart race.

Soo-min, noticing the quiet moment, decided to lighten the mood. "Hey, Ji-ae, do you think you could make calculus sound interesting? Like, use food analogies or something?"

Ji-ae laughed. "Sure, why not? Okay, imagine calculus is like making a perfect kimchi stew. Each ingredient represents a different variable, and you have to balance them just right to get the best flavor."

Soo-min's eyes widened. "Now you're speaking my language! That actually makes sense."

Min-jun chuckled. "You have a way with words, Ji-ae. Maybe you should become a teacher."

"Maybe," Ji-ae said, smiling. "But for now, let's focus on getting through this exam."

The trio spent the rest of the afternoon studying, their laughter and camaraderie making the time fly by. As the sun set, they decided to take a break and grab some dinner at a nearby café.

The cozy café near campus had become their favorite hangout spot. With its warm lighting and delicious pastries, it was the perfect place to unwind after a long day of studying. Ji-ae, Min-jun, and Soo-min settled into a corner booth, their textbooks momentarily forgotten.

"So, Ji-ae," Soo-min said, sipping her coffee. "Any plans for the weekend?"

Ji-ae shook her head. "Not really. I thought I'd catch up on some reading and maybe visit my grandparents."

Min-jun leaned in, a mischievous glint in his eye. "How about we do something fun instead? Maybe a trip to the amusement park?"

Soo-min clapped her hands excitedly. "That sounds amazing! I haven't been to an amusement park in ages."

Ji-ae smiled, feeling a surge of happiness. "That does sound fun. Okay, let's do it."

The rest of the evening was filled with animated discussions about which rides to go on and what snacks to try. Min-jun teased Soo-min about her fear of roller coasters, while Ji-ae tried to reassure her that they would be there to hold her hand.

The weekend arrived, and the three friends set off for the amusement park. The bright, sunny day was perfect for an adventure. The park was bustling with people, the air filled with the sounds of laughter and excitement.

"Where should we start?" Ji-ae asked, looking around at the colorful attractions.

"Let's go on the Ferris wheel first," Min-jun suggested. "It'll give us a great view of the whole park."

Soo-min nodded enthusiastically. "Good idea! Plus, it's not too scary."

As they rode the Ferris wheel, Ji-ae marveled at the beautiful view of the city and the park below. Sitting next to Min-jun, she felt a sense of contentment wash over her. Min-jun took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

"This is nice," he said softly, his eyes reflecting the setting sun. "I'm really glad we're doing this."

"Me too," Ji-ae replied, her heart swelling with affection.

After the Ferris wheel, they tried their luck at various carnival games, with Min-jun winning a stuffed animal for Ji-ae. They indulged in cotton candy, churros, and ice cream, laughing and teasing each other along the way.

When they finally reached the roller coaster, Soo-min's face turned pale. "I-I don't know about this," she stammered.

Ji-ae put an arm around her. "It's okay, Soo-min. We're right here with you."

Min-jun grinned. "And if it's too much, just close your eyes and scream. It helps."

Reluctantly, Soo-min agreed, and the trio boarded the roller coaster. The ride was exhilarating, filled with twists, turns, and heart-pounding drops. Ji-ae's laughter mingled with Soo-min's screams, creating a cacophony of joy and terror.

When the ride ended, Soo-min stumbled off, her legs shaking. "That was... intense," she said, trying to catch her breath.

Ji-ae hugged her. "You were so brave, Soo-min!"

Min-jun laughed. "See? You survived!"

As the day came to a close, they watched the fireworks display, the colorful bursts lighting up the night sky. Ji-ae leaned against Min-jun, feeling the warmth of his embrace. Soo-min stood next to them, her eyes wide with wonder.

"This has been the best day," Ji-ae whispered, her heart full.

Min-jun kissed the top of her head. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, Ji-ae."

Soo-min nodded in agreement. "We should do this more often."

As they left the amusement park, Ji-ae felt a deep sense of happiness and gratitude. She had wonderful friends, a loving boyfriend, and countless memories to cherish.