Nearly one week after our encounter, Alexia and I planned to meet at our usual spot. It was a bright Sunday morning around 9 a.m., and Lexi and I were seated at our favourite café, nestled in a cosy corner with steaming mugs of coffee cradled in our hands. The café, a charming little place with rustic wooden tables and mismatched chairs, was bathed in the soft glow of the early sun filtering through large windows adorned with lace curtains. Potted plants hung from the ceiling and lined the window sills, their vibrant green leaves casting dappled shadows on the worn wooden floorboards. 

The air was filled with the rich aroma of freshly ground coffee beans and the tantalizing scent of freshly baked pastries wafting from the open kitchen. Soft jazz music played in the background, its soothing melodies mingling with the quiet hum of conversation from other patrons. The atmosphere was one of warmth and tranquillity, a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The chatter of patrons and the aroma of freshly baked pastries enveloped us as we settled in for our weekly catch-up session. 

Outside, the weather was perfect, with a gentle breeze rustling the leaves of the trees lining the street. The sky was a clear, brilliant blue, promising a beautiful day ahead. Birds chirped, their melodies blending with the distant hum of the city waking up.

"So, spill it, Lex," I prodded, my eyes sparkling with curiosity behind a pair of oversized sunglasses perched atop my head. "Any juicy drama to report?"

Lexi chuckled, her eyes alight with mischief as she leaned in conspiratorially. "Oh, you have no idea, Sian. Do you remember that couple from last month?

Raising an eyebrow, my interest piqued. "The ones who ended up with a dove stampede instead?" 

Lexi nodded, unable to suppress a giggle. "That's the one! Well, they've decided to renew their vows already."

My laughter rang out, drawing the attention of nearby patrons. "You're kidding! What could go wrong this time?" 

Alexia shrugged, her smile mischievous. "Who knows? But I've already started stocking up on birdseed, just in case."

Our laughter mingled with the ambient noise of the café, filling the air with warmth

Lexi leaned back, her smile lingering. "You know, it's not just about the doves. They're going all out this time. A horse-drawn carriage, a ten-tier cake, the works."

I shook my head, amazed. "Some people never learn, huh? What's next, a parade of elephants?"

"Don't give them any ideas. But seriously, it's moments like these that make me love what I do. Even with all the chaos, there's something magical about seeing people so determined to celebrate their love." she said with laughter

I nodded, taking a sip of my coffee. "True. And it's stories like this that keep our lives interesting."

As the café buzzed with the chatter of patrons and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, Alexia leaned back in her chair, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "So spill the tea, Sian. What's on your side?"

I chuckled, setting the sleek red velvet envelope on the table with a theatrical flourish. "Well, let's just say it's a mix of excitement."

Alexia's gaze flickered to the envelope, her interest piqued. "Ooh, what's that?"

With a mischievous grin, I slid the envelope across the table towards her. "Take a look."

Her fingers delicately traced the embossed letters as she read the elegant script. "Harvard Business School? Sian, this is incredible!"

I beamed with pride, the weight of my achievement sinking in as I watched her reaction. "Yep, my research paper got accepted. And guess who approved it? a certain Mr. Jay Park."

Alexia's eyes widened in disbelief, her voice barely above a whisper. "Jay Park? THE JAY PARK?"

"Wait, wait, wait," her eyes sparkling with excitement and disbelief. "You mean to tell me that Jay Park, the man who revolutionized the media industry, is not only interested in your research but also gave you a VIP card for his private Met Gala? Sian, this is beyond incredible!" she said in disbelief

A ripple of excitement swept through the café as our conversation caught the attention of nearby patrons. I couldn't help but laugh at Alexia's reaction, her incredulous expression mirrored by those around us.

"Shh, keep it down," I teased, leaning in closer. "Do you know him?"

Alexia shook her head, her gaze fixed on me with newfound respect. "Jay Park is a legend in the business world. Building a media empire from scratch, that's no small feat." Her words filled me with a sense of pride and accomplishment. 

"Yeah, it's pretty surreal. But if Jay Park believes in my work, then maybe I'm onto something." I replied

Alexia nodded emphatically, her enthusiasm contagious. "Absolutely! This is just the beginning, Sian. Who knows where this could lead?"

As we basked in the glow of my achievement, I couldn't help but feel grateful for Alexia's unwavering support. Her words of encouragement buoyed my spirits, reminding me that with dedication and determination, anything is possible.

"Exactly," I agreed, my excitement bubbling over. "And guess what else? As the Talent Acquisition Lead, I've snagged a VIP card for the upcoming Met Gala in Seoul."

Alexia's eyes widened even further if that were possible. "You are living every fashionista's dream!"

I nodded, feeling a rush of exhilaration. "It's going to be amazing. And who knows? Maybe I'll get to rub elbows with some influential figures in the industry."

She leaned in closer, her expression eager. "You never know who you might meet. This could be a huge networking opportunity."

The thought sent a thrill through me. "Exactly! And with Jay Park's seal of approval, who knows what doors could open?"

Alexia grinned, her enthusiasm infectious. "I have a feeling this is just the beginning of something incredible for you, Sian. I can't wait to see where this journey takes you."

She reached across the table, squeezing my hand reassuringly.  As we sat there, lost in conversation and dreams of the future, I knew that anything was possible.

I nodded eagerly, swept up in her enthusiasm. "Yes, can you believe it? Jay Park himself! It's like a dream come true." she beams in.

Alexia leaned in closer, her voice tinged with awe.

"Sian, do you realize what this means? Jay Park doesn't just support anyone. If he sees potential in your work, it's a huge deal. This could be a game-changer for your career!"

Her excitement was contagious, igniting a fire of anticipation within me. "I know, right? It's like all my hard work is finally paying off. And getting to attend the Met Gala, rubbing shoulders with industry giants? It's surreal."

She squealed with delight, unable to contain her excitement. I laughed, feeling buoyed by her enthusiasm. "Of course, Lexi. You'll be the first to know all the juicy details. And who knows? Maybe I'll even get a chance to introduce you to Jay Park himself!"

The thought seemed to send Alexia into a frenzy of excitement. "Oh my god, could you imagine? Meeting Jay Park? I think I might faint!"

"Tell me more about Jay Park. One year ago when I submitted my research paper, I had no clue who would be reading my paper. And then, a few days ago, I was over the moon when I found out it got accepted. But, Lexi, is this the Jay Park you've been gushing about since we were 18?" I asked with sudden curiosity.

"Oh, girl, if only you knew who Jay Park is. He's the man who's given me courage through everything, the one who's inspired me to never give up. Park Media Group, that's his baby. And let me tell you, he's got the voice of an angel. He's a singer, a voice actor, and on top of all that, a renowned businessman," she said with sparkling eyes.

"So, he's your ultimate idol then?" I asked while sipping my latte.

"Absolutely! He's more than just a celebrity crush, Sian. He's been a constant source of inspiration in my life," Alexia added with a shy smile.

"Are you, like, in love with him?" I teased.

"Oh, shut up! Don't be ridiculous," she said, her cheeks turning a faint shade of red.

I couldn't help but tease her, knowing how much she admired Jay Park. We burst into laughter, the sound echoing in the cosy café as we indulged in our pastries. I couldn't help but admire Alexia's passion for Jay Park. From her descriptions, he sounded like a modern-day renaissance man. His multifaceted talents and success in both the entertainment and business worlds painted a picture of a true visionary.

As we discussed the upcoming plans for Seoul, the excitement bubbled between us. The next few days would be busy preparing for the Met Gala, and Lexi would be accompanying me every step of the way. But amidst the glitz and glamour of the event, I also planned to visit her halmeoni. I missed her food so much, and staying with her would not only save on hotel expenses but also provide cherished moments of family warmth and connection. Paying for her company was the least I could do for all the love and support she had given me over the years.

With our plans in place and anticipation building, we left the café with hearts full of excitement and anticipation for the adventures that awaited us in Seoul. We planned to leave for Seoul in three days.  I found myself reminiscing about the vibrant streets of Seoul, the savoury aromas wafting from street food stalls, and the hum of life that permeated every corner. Yet, alongside the nostalgia, a sobering reality settled in—the city had changed, and evolved, and with it, the cost of living had soared.

Despite the financial considerations, the allure of Seoul's dynamic energy remained irresistible. I often pondered over the prospect of shifting there permanently, weighing the exhilaration of immersing myself in its rich culture against the practicalities of navigating its increasingly expensive landscape. It was a dilemma that tugged at my heartstrings, the clash between dreams and pragmatism. Well, for now, I'm happy to go back home.