~🎡~

The train screeched to a halt at Busan Station. Outside, the Christmas carnival glimmered with twinkling lights, the faint sound of carolers drifting into the compartment. Haejo stood and extended a hand to her.

“Come on.”

“Where?” she asked, hesitant.

“On a date. Just for today,” he said with a charming grin. “Let’s see if your dreams of love match reality.”

Against her better judgment, Jaemi found herself nodding.

When they got off the train, Jaemi struggled to keep up with Haejo, her wedding gown catching on her heels and dragging through the bustling station.

“I can’t believe you’re running away in that,” Haejo said, clearly amused.

“I didn’t have time to pack a getaway outfit!” she snapped.

Haejo rolled his eyes, steering her into a small boutique. “Pick something.”

Jaemi hesitated. “I don’t have any money…”

“Obviously,” Haejo said, his tone dry. “Pick something, or I’ll pick for you.”

Moments later, she emerged in a simple blue dress and sneakers. “How do I look?”

“Decent,” he replied, smirking. “At least you don’t look like you’re about to get married—or thrown off a train.”

Jaemi smiled despite herself. “Thanks.”

“Don’t get all emotional. I only did it because watching you trip over yourself was exhausting,” he teased as they headed for the carnival outside.

Jaemi couldn’t help but feel a quiet gratitude for this man who had made her chaotic journey a little brighter.

The vibrant Christmas carnival welcomed them with its colorful lights and lively music. Jaemi’s laughter came easily as she marveled at every stall.

“Want a candied apple?” Haejo asked.

“I’ve never tried one!” she said, her eyes lighting up.

“What kind of childhood did you have?” he teased, handing her the treat.

As she bit into the sticky sweetness, Haejo chuckled. “You’ve got syrup on your cheek.”

“Why didn’t you tell me sooner?” she gasped, wiping her face.

“Because it was funnier this way,” he replied, smirking.

Later, she dragged him onto the Ferris wheel, ignoring his protests. As they ascended, the carnival lights below looked magical.

“It’s beautiful,” Jaemi whispered.

Haejo glanced at her. “Yeah. It is.”

She caught his gaze and teased, “You’re looking at me, not the view.”

“Well, you’re the one who insisted this ride was magical,” he said smoothly.

Their evening ended with an impromptu dance under fairy lights. Haejo, who claimed he didn’t dance, found himself moving effortlessly with Jaemi. For a moment, the world faded away, leaving only their laughter and the glow of the carnival.

While walking back to the station, Haejo listened intently as Jaemi spoke of her tiny dreams—opening a café, planting a garden, and having a big white dog. She, in turn, learned of his disdain for marriage, shaped by watching his parents’ toxic relationship.

“You know,” he said as they walked along the snowy path, “for someone who doesn’t want to get married yet, you sure talk about your future wedding a lot.”

She stuck her tongue out at him. “Well, it’s still my dream. Just… not now.”

They both knew their time was limited, yet they couldn’t help the feelings blossoming between them. As the night deepened, they silently agreed to dismiss what couldn’t be.

~🦩~