It was a bright and sunny morning when Hanada first met Kim Seo. He was running a bit late for his shift at Brew Haven and was hurrying across the campus, when he collided with someone turning the corner.
"Oh, I'm so sorry!" Hanada exclaimed, steadying himself.
"No, it's my fault," the person replied, looking up at him with a sheepish smile. She had short, dark hair and bright, curious eyes. "I was in a rush."
Hanada quickly took in her appearance. She wore a simple yet stylish outfit and carried a stack of books that had scattered to the ground in the collision.
"Here, let me help you," Hanada said, bending down to pick up the books. "Are you new here?"
"Yes, I'm an exchange student from Korea," she said, brushing her hair out of her face. "My name's Kim Seo. Nice to meet you."
"Hanada. Nice to meet you too," he replied, handing her the books. "Welcome to our campus. If you need any help finding your way around, let me know."
"Thank you," Kim Seo said, smiling warmly. "Actually, I could use some help finding the library."
"I can show you the way," Hanada offered, checking the time. "I've got a few minutes before my shift starts."
"That would be great," Kim Seo said, following him.
As they walked, they chatted about their studies and interests. Hanada learned that Kim Seo was majoring in international relations and was fascinated by Japanese culture.
"I've always wanted to visit Japan," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It's so beautiful here."
"I'm glad you like it," Hanada said. "I'm sure you'll have a great time."
They reached the library, and Hanada pointed out the main entrance. "Here you go. If you need anything else, feel free to ask."
"Thank you so much, Hanada," Kim Seo said, bowing slightly. "I really appreciate it."
"No problem," Hanada replied with a smile. "Good luck with your studies."
He watched her disappear into the library before heading off to Brew Haven, his mind buzzing with thoughts of the friendly new student.
---
Later that day, Hanada was working behind the counter at Brew Haven when Yui walked in, looking as cheerful as ever.
"Hey, Hanada-kun," she said, leaning on the counter. "How's your day going?"
"Pretty good," Hanada replied, wiping down the counter. "I met a new exchange student from Korea this morning. Her name's Kim Seo."
"Really?" Yui said, intrigued. "That's cool. We should invite her to join us for lunch sometime."
"Good idea," Hanada said. "She seemed really nice."
As they chatted, the door to the café opened, and Akari walked in, her eyes lighting up when she saw Hanada. She hurried over and hugged him tightly.
"Hanada-kun! I missed you," she said, her voice muffled against his shoulder.
"I missed you too, Akari," Hanada replied, hugging her back.
Yui grinned. "Hey, Akari-chan. It's great to see you."
"Hi, Yui," Akari said, smiling. "How's everything?"
"Great," Yui replied. "Hanada was just telling me about this new exchange student he met. She's from Korea."
Akari's smile faltered slightly. "Oh? That's interesting."
Hanada noticed the change in her expression and quickly added, "Yeah, I helped her find the library. She seemed really nice."
"I see," Akari said, her tone neutral. "Well, it's always good to meet new people."
Hanada sensed a hint of jealousy in her voice and decided to change the subject. "So, how was your trip?"
Akari's face brightened. "It was amazing! I have so much to tell you."
They spent the next hour catching up, and Hanada couldn't help but notice how Akari seemed to cling to him a little more tightly than usual. It was endearing, and he found himself enjoying her attention.
---
A few days later, Hanada, Yui, and Akari decided to have lunch together in the campus cafeteria. Hanada spotted Kim Seo sitting alone at a table and waved her over.
"Kim Seo, come join us!" he called out.
Kim Seo looked up, surprised but pleased. She picked up her tray and walked over to their table.
"Hi, everyone," she said, smiling. "Thanks for inviting me."
"This is Yui, and you've already met Akari," Hanada said, introducing his friends.
"Nice to meet you both," Kim Seo said, bowing slightly.
"Nice to meet you too," Yui replied cheerfully. "Welcome to our little group."
Akari gave a polite smile. "Welcome, Kim Seo."
As they ate, the conversation flowed easily. Kim Seo shared stories about her life in Korea, and Hanada, Yui, and Akari took turns talking about their experiences at the university. Akari remained polite but seemed slightly reserved, and Hanada couldn't help but notice the occasional glance she cast at Kim Seo.
"So, Hanada mentioned you're interested in Japanese culture," Yui said. "What's your favorite thing about it so far?"
"I love the food and the history," Kim Seo replied. "And I'm really enjoying learning the language. It's challenging but rewarding."
"That's great," Yui said. "Maybe Hanada can help you practice your Japanese. He's pretty good at it."
Hanada laughed. "I'd be happy to help."
Akari's smile tightened a bit. "Yes, Hanada is very helpful."
After lunch, they all walked to their next classes together. Kim Seo thanked them for including her and promised to join them again soon.
"She seems nice," Yui said as they walked.
"Yeah, she does," Hanada agreed. "I'm glad she's fitting in."
Akari remained silent, and Hanada glanced at her, wondering if he should say something. He decided to wait until they were alone.
---
That evening, Hanada and Akari took a walk around the campus, enjoying the cool breeze and the sound of leaves rustling in the trees. Hanada could sense that something was on Akari's mind.
"Akari, are you okay?" he asked gently.
Akari looked up at him, her eyes softening. "I'm fine. It's just... I guess I'm a little jealous."
"Jealous?" Hanada echoed, surprised.
"Yes," Akari admitted, sighing. "I know it's silly, but I can't help it. I see you getting along so well with Kim Seo, and I feel... threatened."
Hanada stopped and took her hands in his. "Akari, you have nothing to worry about. Kim Seo is just a friend. You're the one I care about."
Akari's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "I know that. I just... I don't want to lose you."
"You won't," Hanada said firmly. "You mean the world to me, Akari. No one could ever take your place."
Akari smiled, her eyes shining with love. "Thank you, Hanada-kun. I needed to hear that."
Hanada leaned in and kissed her gently. "I'm glad you told me how you feel. I promise, I'll always be here for you."
They continued their walk, hand in hand, the tension between them eased. Hanada felt a deep sense of contentment, knowing that their bond was strong enough to withstand anything.
---
The next few weeks passed quickly, with Hanada balancing his studies, work at Brew Haven, and his adventures with Aiko and Kim Seo. He found himself enjoying the diverse experiences and the new friendships he was forming.
One afternoon, Hanada received a text from Kim Seo, asking if he wanted to join her for a study session. He agreed, and they met in the library later that day.
"Thanks for coming," Kim Seo said as they settled into a quiet corner. "I could use some help with my Japanese homework."
"Happy to help," Hanada replied, pulling out his textbook.
As they worked, Hanada was impressed by Kim Seo's dedication and progress. She was a quick learner, and he enjoyed their study sessions.
"Thank you, Hanada," Kim Seo said after they finished. "You're a great teacher."
"No problem," Hanada said with a smile. "You're doing really well."
As they packed up their things, Kim Seo hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Can I ask you something personal?"
"Sure," Hanada said, curious.
"How do you balance everything?" Kim Seo asked. "Your studies, work, friends... It seems like you have it all figured out."
Hanada chuckled. "I don't know if I have it all figured out. I just try to manage my time well and prioritize what's important."
Kim Seo nodded thoughtfully. "I admire that. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed, trying to keep up with everything."
"It's okay to feel that way," Hanada said gently. "We all do at times. Just remember to take care of yourself and don't be afraid to ask for help."
"Thanks, Hanada," Kim Seo said, her smile returning. "I'll keep that in mind."