H E L P |돕다

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Your eyes widened as a boy clad in a black leather aviator jacket and skinny jeans stepped into your rescue.

“Yah, keep your filthy hands to yourself,” he commanded, his voice firm and deep—almost melodic with a raspy edge. It was a voice unlike anything you had heard before. Though his face remained hidden behind a black mask, his aura demanded attention.

The drunken man gaped at him, rubbing his cheek with indignation. “You’ve got guts, kid! You think you can get away with this?”

The boy smirked, unfazed by the older man’s threats. “You already crossed the line. Tell me, how would you feel if someone treated your wife or daughter the same way you just treated her?” His words were sharp, each syllable dripping with conviction.

Before the drunkard could retort, the man with the cigarette lashed out, splashing a full glass of whiskey in your direction. Instinctively, you stepped forward to shield the boy, and the liquid soaked through your uniform, dripping onto the floor from your stained apron.

Blinking through the alcohol stinging your skin, you saw the boy swipe a few drops off his face with a steady hand. His dark eyes darted toward you briefly, softening with something akin to pity, before they turned sharp and cold again as he addressed the offender.

Grabbing a glass of water, the boy hurled it at the man’s face with precision. “Take that,” he said, his voice calm but deadly. “You deserve worse, but your age keeps me from doing anything more. Get a grip on yourself, sir.”

The older men lowered their heads in silent shame, their bravado evaporating. It was clear they were internally berating themselves for their actions.

The tension in the restaurant dissipated as the two men paid their bill and stumbled out. The boy collected his own order from the counter, leaving without a word before you could muster a proper thank-you.

Back in the kitchen, you fanned your apron, trying to air out the whiskey stains. Reaching into your pocket, you felt the damp envelope and gasped. Tearing it open, your heart sank at the sight of the ruined paycheck. “Oh no! My check! It’s completely ruined!”

---

Later that evening, Wonho ended his call with a sigh, sinking into his chair’s backrest. You stood nearby, waiting for an answer.

“What did he say?” you asked, your voice hesitant.

Wonho rubbed the back of his neck, his expression apologetic. “The boss said it’s impossible to reissue the check right now. He’s already on his way to the airport and won’t be back until next month. I’m really sorry, Y/N.”

You inhaled deeply, forcing a small smile. “It’s okay. Maybe it was just meant to be. Nothing I can do about it.” Your gaze fell to the floor, trying to hide your disappointment.

“But you’re still coming to the dinner, right?” Wonho asked, his tone hopeful.

You shook your head gently. “Sorry, Wonho-ssi, but I should head home. My grandma’s alone. Maybe next time? Enjoy your evening, though. See you tomorrow.” You bowed slightly and left, feeling the weight of the day settle on your shoulders.

---

The cold night air bit at your skin as you waited at the bus stop. The streetlights cast long shadows, and the world felt heavy—almost suffocating. Thoughts of your ruined paycheck and your dwindling savings spiraled in your mind.

You pulled out your phone, scrolling through your recent contacts. Your thumb hovered over your mom’s number before you hesitated. She and your father were already overwhelmed with their own responsibilities. How could you burden them with your problems?

Sighing deeply, you tucked your phone away and looked up at the sky, searching for answers among the stars. It all felt hopeless, but you refused to give up entirely. There had to be a way.

The bus arrived, and you slumped into a window seat. The blurred glow of streetlights streaked past as you leaned your temple against the cold glass, your warm breaths fogging its surface.

---

When you finally unlocked your front door, the house was silent. You peeked into your grandma’s room to find her sound asleep. Glancing at the clock, you realized how late it was.

After changing into comfortable clothes, you made your way to the kitchen. A plate of food sat waiting on the buffet table, its aroma stirring your hunger. A sticky note on the fridge read: Left dinner for you. Take care! – Miss Ailiseu.

Grateful, you grabbed a pair of chopsticks and sat down, eating in silence. The warmth of the soup was comforting, but your mind was far from at ease.

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Back in your room, you opened your laptop and began searching for part-time jobs online. The screen scrolled endlessly as you combed through listings, your eyes finally landing on a link: Kim Enterprises – Open Positions.

Your pulse quickened as you clicked it, hoping this could be your chance.

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Hello mah sweet souls!!! What's up? Well any guesses for the next part? Drop your thoughts!!