**Chapter 6: A Chance Encounter**
Jae-min's days had started to develop a pattern. Mornings were for figuring out how to use Elyra's system effectively, afternoons for hanging out with Mina or exploring opportunities to meet new people. The system wasn't just a tool—it was becoming the backbone of his plans to rebuild his life. But even with the strides he'd made so far, he knew he couldn't stop now. There was still a long way to go.
This morning, however, Elyra had other ideas.
"Jae-min," her voice chimed from his phone, "it's time to expand your connections. You've made great progress with Mina, but there are other people out there who could play an important role in your journey."
He sighed, slipping on his jacket. "You mean go out and meet more girls?"
Elyra smirked, tilting her head teasingly. "Don't think of it as just meeting girls. Think of it as building relationships and creating opportunities. The system's power works best when you're actively engaged with the people around you."
He groaned but knew she had a point. He couldn't let himself stagnate. "Fine. Where should I start?"
"There's a bookstore downtown," Elyra suggested. "From my analysis, there's a high probability you'll meet someone interesting there. Plus, you could use some inspiration, don't you think?"
Jae-min raised an eyebrow. "A bookstore, huh? Alright, let's see where this goes."
---
The bookstore was tucked away on a quiet street, its exterior modest but inviting. As Jae-min stepped inside, the scent of old paper and ink hit him, instantly calming. Shelves lined every wall, filled with books of all genres and sizes. A faint jazz tune played in the background, adding to the cozy atmosphere.
He wandered through the aisles, not entirely sure what he was looking for. Elyra had said he'd meet someone interesting, but he wasn't about to just walk up to random strangers and strike up a conversation. That wasn't his style.
As he turned a corner, he nearly bumped into someone. A young woman was balancing a precariously tall stack of books in her arms, her face partially obscured by the tower of pages. She stumbled slightly, and Jae-min instinctively reached out to steady her.
"Whoa, careful there," he said, grabbing the top of the stack to keep it from toppling.
"Thanks," she replied, her voice soft but firm. She peeked out from behind the books, revealing a striking face framed by short, ash-blonde hair. Her sharp green eyes met his, and she gave him a quick, almost reluctant smile. "Guess I overestimated how much I could carry."
"No kidding," Jae-min said with a chuckle. "You planning to read all these at once?"
Her smile widened a fraction, and she adjusted the books in her arms. "I'm a fast reader. But these aren't all for me. I help run a book club, and we're picking out titles for the next few months."
"A book club, huh? Sounds impressive."
She shrugged, her demeanor casual but not unfriendly. "It's nothing fancy. Just a group of people who love stories. Anyway, thanks for the save."
Before she could walk away, Jae-min found himself speaking. "Wait, do you need help with those? Looks like a lot to carry on your own."
She hesitated, her eyes studying him carefully. After a moment, she nodded. "Alright, if you're offering. Thanks."
---
As they walked toward the register, Jae-min learned her name was Hana, and she was a literature student at the local university. Despite her reserved nature, there was something magnetic about her—a quiet confidence that drew him in.
"So, what's your favorite book?" he asked as they waited in line.
"That's a tough one," Hana admitted. "But if I had to pick, it'd be *The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle*. It's strange, haunting, and beautiful all at once."
"Sounds deep," Jae-min said, impressed. "I'll have to check it out."
Hana smirked. "You should. But don't just say that to impress me."
He laughed, raising his hands defensively. "Hey, I mean it. I could use some good recommendations."
As they left the bookstore, Jae-min carried half of Hana's books, earning a teasing remark about how he didn't look like the reading type. They walked in companionable silence until they reached a small café where her book club was meeting.
"This is me," Hana said, taking the books from him. "Thanks for your help. You didn't have to, but I appreciate it."
"No problem," he replied. "It was nice meeting you."
She hesitated, then added, "If you're serious about reading more, you should drop by the club sometime. We're always open to new members."
Jae-min smiled, feeling a spark of excitement. "I might just do that."
As she disappeared into the café, Elyra's voice chimed in his ear.
"Well done, Jae-min. Hana's likability has reached 15%. A promising start."
"15%?" he muttered. "She didn't even seem that interested."
Elyra laughed softly. "Not every connection starts with fireworks. Hana is cautious by nature, but you've made a good impression. Keep it up, and you'll see progress."
Jae-min couldn't help but grin as he walked away. It wasn't just about the system or the rewards—it was about the challenge of getting to know someone new, of proving himself in ways he hadn't before.
---
That evening, as he reflected on the day, he couldn't help but feel a sense of momentum building. Mina's trust was growing, and now Hana had entered the picture. Elyra was right—this wasn't just about spending money or raising numbers. It was about the people, the connections, and the possibilities they brought into his life.
And for the first time in a long time, Jae-min felt like he was starting to piece together something meaningful.