Chapter Nine: Morning whispers.

 The first rays of dawn gently filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. Lee Soo Jeon stirred in her sleep, slowly awakening to the soft hum of her phone vibrating on the nightstand. Her eyes fluttered open, a sleepy smile tugging at the corners of her lips as she reached for the device.

 A message from Kang Min Jun lit up the screen:Min Jun: Good morning, beautiful. I hope you slept well. Soo Jeon's heart fluttered at the sight of his words. She could almost hear his voice, gentle and comforting, as she read the message.

 For a moment, she imagined him beside her, sharing this quiet, intimate moment together.

 She let out a soft sigh, feeling warmth spread through her chest as she typed her reply:

 Soo Jeon: Morning, Min Jun. I slept well, thanks to your sweet message last night. How about you? Did you sleep okay?She set the phone down, her mind replaying their conversation from the previous night. It had been full of laughter and warmth, leaving her with a sense of contentment that lingered even as she drifted off to sleep. Just as she was lost in her thoughts, her phone buzzed again.

 Min Jun: I slept better knowing I'd be waking up to your message. Any plans for today?Soo Jeon giggled softly, rolling onto her back as she composed her reply. She loved these moments with Min Jun—the simplicity of their exchanges, the ease with which they communicated. It felt natural, like a rhythm they had fallen into without even realizing it.

 Soo Jeon: Just some practice in the morning, then maybe a coffee date with a certain someone. How about you?As she sent the message, Soo Jeon imagined Min Jun's reaction. He was likely smiling, his eyes lighting up with that familiar warmth that never failed to make her heart skip a beat. The thought made her cheeks flush, and she pulled the blanket over her head, trying to hide from the rush of emotions.

 The response was almost immediate:Min Jun: A coffee date sounds perfect. Can't wait to see you, Soo Jeon.Her heart soared at his words, and she hugged her pillow tightly, feeling a sense of joy she hadn't experienced in a long time. The day was just beginning, but already it felt like it was going to be something special—because of him.