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The late afternoon sun cast a golden hue over The Blossom Gardens, painting the meticulously manicured lawns and vibrant flowerbeds in a warm, ethereal glow. Mingyu, dressed in a tailored suit that accentuated his tall frame, felt a familiar mix of excitement and slight awkwardness. He was here for his cousin’s, Seungcheol's, wedding to Jeonghan, a day he'd been anticipating for months. But being surrounded by so many elegantly dressed people, all buzzing with pre-ceremony energy, made him feel a bit like a gentle giant in a room full of delicate china.
Beside him, Bobpul, a fluffy white cloud on four legs, trotted with his usual bouncy enthusiasm. His white fur seemed to shimmer in the sunlight, and his dark eyes sparkled with curiosity as he took in the sights and smells of the venue. Mingyu held his leash loosely, allowing Bobpul a bit of freedom to explore, within reason.
"Easy there, buddy," Mingyu murmured, a soft smile playing on his lips as Bobpul tugged gently. "We don't want to get into any trouble before the big 'I do.'"
The Blossom Gardens was a floral paradise. Arches draped in roses, hydrangeas, and lilies lined the pathways, their sweet fragrance mingling with the fresh scent of the surrounding greenery. Mingyu couldn't help but admire the artistry of the arrangements. They were both breathtakingly beautiful and subtly elegant, perfectly capturing Seungcheol and Jeonghan's sophisticated taste.
His gaze drifted towards a particularly magnificent floral archway that stood near the ceremony site. It was a masterpiece, a cascade of blooms in varying shades of pink, white, and lavender, interwoven with delicate greenery. Mingyu found himself drawn to it, the sheer artistry of the arrangement captivating him.
He didn't notice the figure standing nearby until Bobpul did.
The man was a study in focused concentration. Dressed in a stylish, flower-patterned apron over a crisp white shirt, he was making a final adjustment to the archway, his brow furrowed slightly in concentration. He held a small sprig of delicate white blossoms, carefully positioning it within the larger arrangement. His dark hair, neatly styled, framed a face that was both handsome and serene, even with the slight tension in his expression.
Mingyu had seen him before, of course. Not here, but during his nightly walks with Bobpul at the park near his condominium in the city. They were both regulars, their dogs often engaging in playful chases while their owners exchanged polite nods and fleeting smiles. There was an unspoken acknowledgment, a comfortable familiarity in their shared routine, but they had never actually spoken. Mingyu had always been struck by the man's quiet intensity and the elegant way he handled his sleek Cockapoo.
Seol, as engraved on a small heart-shaped tag, with a stylish collar around her neck, was now the catalyst for their first real encounter.
Bobpul, his nose twitching, caught the scent of something particularly intriguing beneath the archway. A fallen petal, perhaps, or a stray blossom, its fragrance irresistible to his canine senses. He tugged on his leash, his fluffy tail wagging furiously, pulling Mingyu towards the floral masterpiece.
At the same moment, the man, his mind preoccupied with the missing filler flowers, turned slightly, his gaze fixed on the archway. He was carrying a small, shallow tray filled with delicate floral accents, his movements precise and careful. Seol, who had been patiently observing her owner, spotted Bobpul and, with a small, excited bark, tugged on her leash.
The combination of Bobpul's enthusiastic pull and Seol's sudden movement created a perfect storm of canine-induced chaos. The man, caught off guard by Seol's unexpected surge, lost his balance. He stumbled backwards, his tray of floral accents tilting precariously.
Time seemed to slow down. One moment, the man was adjusting the flowers, and the next, he was falling backward. Mingyu's instincts took over, and he dropped Bobpul's leash, reaching out to catch the man in the flower apron.
The scent that hit Mingyu was incredible—a heady mix of roses, lilies, and something else, something sweet and uniquely the man who he just caught in his arms. Petals, shaken loose by the sudden movement, rained down around them like confetti, catching the sunlight. It was like something out of a dream.
The man found himself pressed against Mingyu's chest. Mingyu could feel the warmth of the man's body, the steady thump-thump-thump of his heart against his own chest. The man's eyes were wide with surprise, those beautiful, focused eyes now filled with a kind of stunned wonder.
Mingyu gazed at the man. Up close, he was even more striking. His face was a mixture of concern and something else, something that made Mingyu's own heart do a weird little flip. The scent of flowers was intoxicating, and the man felt surprisingly light in his arms. He couldn't help but notice the delicate curve of the man's cheekbone, the way his eyes widened partially hidden behind the glare of the glasses perched on his nose bridge, and the beginning of a soft flush that painted his pale complexion. His grip on the man was firm, but he tried to be gentle, and there was this undeniable pull, this… something else in the way he was holding him, the way he was looking back at him.
Mingyu could see a blush creeping up his neck, his cheeks turning a delicate pink. He looked flustered. Adorable. He'd always seemed so composed and collected at the park, always with Seol, but in that moment, held in Mingyu's arms, he seemed almost… vulnerable. And it was a side of him Mingyu was suddenly very, very interested in seeing more of.
Mingyu finally released the man, though he lingered for a fraction of a second longer than he needed to. "Are you alright?" Mingyu asked, his voice a low rumble.
The man, his composure slowly returning, stepped back, smoothing down his apron with slightly trembling hands. "Y-yes, I'm fine. Thank you." He avoided Mingyu's gaze for a moment, his cheeks still warm. "Seol gets a little enthusiastic," he mumbled, glancing apologetically at his dog.
Mingyu chuckled, a warm, genuine sound. "Bobpul too. They seem to have a knack for getting us into these situations." He looked around, taking in the scene. "Wow, small world, huh? Never thought we'd actually meet properly here." His gaze returned to the man, his eyes sparkling with amusement. “You do remember me, right? From the nightly dog walk encounters in the park? Please tell me I'm not a stalker.”
The man giggled, a light, melodic sound. "I don't think you're a stalker. And yes, of course, I remember you."
The man then noticed a few stray flowers and petals scattered on the ground near the archway, casualties of their near-collision. "Oh no," he murmured, his eyes widening slightly. "Some of the arrangements…"
Mingyu followed his gaze. "Oh, was that because of us? I'm so sorry. Let me help you fix it." He felt a pang of guilt, even though it was mostly their dogs' fault. He was also secretly pleased at the opportunity to spend a little more time with the man.
The man hesitated for a moment. "Well, if you're sure," he said voice a little shaky.
Mingyu grinned. "Of course. Consider it my way of apologizing for Bobpul's exuberance." He crouched down, gently picking up a few fallen petals. "Where do these go?"
The man pointed to a specific section of the archway, his voice softening slightly. "They go here, near the base of the white roses." Mingyu got to it but he found himself watching the man as he worked too, admiring the way his long fingers delicately handled the fragile petals, the way his brow furrowed in concentration.
They worked together, the silence comfortable and punctuated only by the soft rustle of petals and their quiet movements. Now and then, a random comment would break the stillness—Mingyu musing about the surprisingly aggressive pigeons at the venue, Wonwoo sharing a tip for keeping hydrangeas from wilting. These small, unrelated remarks, offered without expectation, somehow added to the growing ease between them.
"These flowers are incredible," Mingyu commented, his gaze sweeping over the archway. "You have an amazing talent."
The man's cheeks flushed again, though this time with pleasure. "Thank you. I… I put my heart into them. I wanted to make sure everything was perfect for Jeonghan hyung and Seungcheol hyung."
"You definitely succeeded," Mingyu said, his eyes meeting the other's. "They're going to be blown away." He paused, a thought occurred to him. "You know Jeonghan hyung? Or Seungcheol hyung?"
The man nodded. "Jeonghan hyung. He's a very kind and appreciative client. He and Seungcheol hyung have been a pleasure to work with."
"Oh, he’s my cousin’s fiancé, well, soon-to-be husband," Mingyu said, a proud smile spreading across his face.
"It truly is a small world indeed. It's also a very beautiful day for a wedding,” the man said, his smile widening slightly, and Mingyu is stunned into silence at how the natural light makes the man look even more breathtaking.
As they worked, their conversation flowed easily, moving from the flowers to Seungcheol and Jeonghan, to their dogs, and eventually to their own lives. Mingyu learned that the man owned "Seol's Blooms," a charming little flower shop in the city, and that he was deeply passionate about his work.
"It's called Seol's Blooms, after my dog," the man explained, gesturing to the elegant Cockapoo who was now patiently sitting beside him, watching Bobpul and Mingyu with mild curiosity. "And I'm Wonwoo, by the way. I don't think we've ever properly introduced ourselves at the park."
Mingyu's eyes widened slightly in realization. "Wonwoo-ssi," he repeated, the name sounding pleasant on his tongue. "I'm Mingyu. It's nice to finally put a name to the face I see almost every night." He grinned, extending a hand.
Wonwoo accepted his hand, their fingers intertwining in a warm and comfortable grip. "Likewise, Mingyu-ssi," he said, his smile genuine.
With each shared smile, each exchanged glance, the connection between them deepened. The floral archway, once the site of a near-disaster, now felt like a shared space, a beautiful backdrop for a budding connection.
⋆˚✿˖°
The archway was finally restored to its former glory, its vibrant blooms standing tall and proud. Mingyu stepped back, admiring their handiwork. "There," he said, a satisfied grin on his face. "Good as new."
Wonwoo stood beside him, his gaze fixed on the archway, a soft smile playing on his lips. "It's even more beautiful now." He glanced at Mingyu, his eyes sparkling with a mixture of gratitude and something else, something that made Mingyu's heart do a little flip.
"I couldn't have done it without you," Mingyu said, his voice a low rumble. He found himself drawn to Wonwoo's gaze, the warmth in his dark eyes pulling him in. He had to admit, helping Wonwoo fix the archway was turning out to be the best plot twist of the day.
The moment hung between them, charged with an unspoken energy. The scent of flowers filled the air, the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves, creating a symphony of natural beauty. Mingyu felt a pull towards Wonwoo, a desire to bridge the gap that had separated them for so long. He was undeniably attracted to Wonwoo; the man's talent with the flowers, his gentle demeanor, and the quiet confidence he exuded all combined to create an irresistible allure.
"Wonwoo!"
A voice called out, breaking the spell. A woman with a clipboard and a slightly harried expression approached them.
"Everything alright with the archway?" she asked, her gaze darting between Wonwoo and Mingyu.
Wonwoo blinked, stepping back slightly. "Yes, everything's fine, Eunji-ssi. Just a minor… adjustment."
Eunji nodded, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in the scene. "Good. Jeonghan-ssi will be here soon for his final walk-through. We need to make sure everything is perfect."
Wonwoo nodded, his professional demeanor returning. "Of course. I'll make sure everything is ready."
Eunji gave them a final, somewhat suspicious look before hurrying off, leaving Mingyu and Wonwoo alone again.
The interruption seemed to break the spell, but the connection between them remained.
"Well," Wonwoo said, smoothing down his apron again, a hint of his earlier composure returning. "I should probably get back to work. There are still a few things that need my attention."
Mingyu nodded, though he felt a pang of disappointment. He wasn't ready for their conversation to end. "Of course. Thank you for letting me help."
"No, thank you ," Wonwoo said, his eyes meeting Mingyu's again. He hesitated for a moment, then added, "Maybe… maybe I'll see you around?"
Mingyu's heart leaped. "Definitely. I'll be here for the rest of the day, celebrating Seungcheol hyung and Jeonghan hyung. And… I'm sure Bobpul will want to say goodbye to Seol." He glanced down at his fluffy companion, who was now happily chewing on a stray petal.
Wonwoo's smile widened. "I'm sure Seol would want that too. I'll try to find you both later."
With that, Wonwoo turned and walked away, his movements graceful and fluid. Mingyu watched him go, his heart pounding in his chest. He couldn't believe it. He had finally spoken to the handsome man from the park, and it had been a scene straight out of those romance films he’d secretly indulged in. The encounter left him both exhilarated and slightly breathless, wondering if this chance meeting could be the start of something truly special.
He looked down at Bobpul, who was still happily munching on the petal. "You little matchmaker," he murmured, shaking his head with a fond smile. "Looks like you finally got us talking."
As the afternoon progressed, Mingyu found himself constantly glancing around, hoping to catch another glimpse of Wonwoo. He helped Seungcheol with some last-minute tasks, chatted with other guests, and even managed to capture some stunning photos of the venue and the floral arrangements. But his mind kept drifting back to Wonwoo, to his soft smile, his gentle eyes, and the way he had felt in his arms. The memory of their brief embrace was replaying in his mind in an endless loop. He was undeniably interested and found himself drawn to Wonwoo's quiet confidence and passion.
⋆˚✿˖°
The ceremony was a dream. Under a breathtaking canopy woven with delicate white and blush-pink flowers—undoubtedly a testament to Wonwoo's artistic touch—Seungcheol and Jeonghan stood bathed in the golden afternoon light. Their vows were raw and honest, each word a testament to a love that had weathered storms and blossomed into a radiant commitment. Mingyu, his camera momentarily forgotten, watched his cousin, who’s more like an older brother, and his now-husband, a lump forming in his throat. The sheer, unadulterated joy radiating from them was infectious, yet it stirred within him a quiet yearning for a connection just as profound.
As the ceremony concluded, the guests flowed towards the reception area, a space transformed by Wonwoo's artistry. Tables were graced with stunning floral centerpieces, each arrangement a miniature masterpiece of color and texture. The air buzzed with celebratory energy—laughter echoing, glasses clinking in toasts, and the gentle murmur of conversations weaving through the lively music.
Mingyu, remembering his role as the unofficial photographer, picked up his camera and began to navigate the joyful crowd, capturing candid moments of shared happiness. Yet, his gaze kept drifting, a silent search for a particular individual amidst the sea of faces.
He finally located Wonwoo near the edge of the dance floor, engaged in an animated conversation with a small group. Wonwoo's face was alight with laughter, his expressions fluid and captivating. Mingyu found himself rooted to the spot, mesmerized by this unguarded display of joy he rarely witnessed. A warmth bloomed in his chest, a feeling he couldn't quite name.
Taking a deep breath, Mingyu approached the group, his heart suddenly hammering against his ribs.
"Excuse me," he said, his voice coming out slightly louder than intended. "Sorry to interrupt, everyone, but Wonwoo-ssi, would you perhaps allow me to steal you away for a moment?"
Wonwoo turned, his eyes widening in momentary surprise before a soft, curious smile touched his lips. He gracefully excused himself from the group. "Mingyu-ssi," he said, his voice a gentle melody. "What can I do for you?"
"I… I just wanted to reiterate how truly stunning the flowers are," Mingyu began, a faint blush creeping up his neck. "You have an incredible talent, really."
Wonwoo's smile deepened, a hint of shy pride in his eyes. "Thank you, Mingyu-ssi. That's very kind of you to say. It means a lot."
"And… well," Mingyu continued, his voice laced with a newfound nervousness, "they're playing a really lovely slow song… and I was wondering, if you aren't too busy, would you perhaps… consider dancing with me?"
Wonwoo's eyes widened slightly in surprise, a delicate flush spreading across his cheeks. "Dance?"
"Yes," Mingyu confirmed, his own cheeks mirroring Wonwoo's warmth. "Just a slow dance. If you'd like to, of course."
A moment of quiet hesitation hung in the air as Wonwoo's gaze searched Mingyu's, a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes. Then, a small, almost hesitant smile bloomed on his face. "I think I would like that very much," he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
Relief washed over Mingyu, a lightness blooming in his chest. He gently extended his hand, and Wonwoo's slender fingers met his. Mingyu carefully led him towards the dance floor, his hand settling tentatively on Wonwoo's waist. A soft gasp escaped Wonwoo's lips at the contact, his body tensing for a fleeting moment before relaxing. He placed his hand on Mingyu's shoulder, their bodies now a comfortable closeness.
As they began to sway to the rhythm of the music, a gentle, melancholic melody that seemed to wrap around them like a soft embrace, the surrounding noise began to fade. Mingyu's gaze was fixed on Wonwoo's eyes, a deep, unwavering look filled with a warmth that seemed to melt away Wonwoo's usual reserve.
"I truly enjoyed our conversation earlier," Mingyu murmured, his voice a low rumble that vibrated against Wonwoo's ear. "You have such a thoughtful way of looking at the world."
"Me too," Wonwoo replied, his voice barely audible. He avoided Mingyu's direct gaze for a moment, his eyes flitting downwards before meeting his again, a newfound softness within them. "I… I didn't anticipate connecting with someone so… interesting at a wedding reception."
"Interesting?" Mingyu chuckled softly, his grip on Wonwoo's waist tightening almost imperceptibly. "Is that all I am to you, Wonwoo-ssi?"
A deeper blush stained Wonwoo's cheeks, his gaze dropping again before quickly returning. "No, not at all," he stammered slightly. "You're… you seem very kind. And you have a wonderful sense of humor. And… your eyes are quite striking."
A thrill shot through Mingyu. "And you," he said, his voice growing husky, "are breathtaking. Your talent with the flowers is extraordinary, and… being this close to you… it makes me feel things I haven't felt in a long time."
Their movements became more fluid, their steps in perfect sync as if they had danced together countless times before. They were lost in the intimate bubble they had created, their gazes locked, their bodies swaying in silent communication. The music seemed to fade into a soft background hum, their world now centered on the gentle pressure of their hands, the warmth of their bodies, and the unspoken emotions that hung heavy in the air between them.
Unbeknownst to them, the lively dance floor had gradually emptied. The only other couple remaining was Seungcheol and Jeonghan, who were now slow-dancing close by, exchanging loving glances and soft smiles. It wasn't until the song ended and a playful wolf-whistle echoed through the room that Mingyu and Wonwoo seemed to snap back to reality.
Mingyu and Wonwoo, though flustered, couldn't deny the spark that had ignited between them on that flower-filled dance floor, a spark that promised something beautiful and new.
⋆˚✿˖°
The night unfurled like a scene from a charming, slightly chaotic romantic comedy. Mingyu, emboldened by the dance and the easy flow of conversation, found himself utterly captivated by Wonwoo. They discovered a shared love for movies (and finds out, much to Mingyu’s surprise given Wonwoo’s seemingly delicate demeanor, that Wonwoo liked thriller films), an uncanny ability to make each other laugh with the silliest puns, and a mutual appreciation for the quiet beauty of a well-tended garden—though Mingyu’s gardening experience peaked at keeping a cactus alive for three months.
As the reception began to wind down, the last few guests offering their heartfelt congratulations to the blissfully exhausted newlyweds, Mingyu felt a familiar sense of panic rising within him. He couldn't let this night be the end of their connection, not after the unexpected joy Wonwoo had brought into his evening.
"Well, well, well," Seungcheol’s voice boomed playfully as he approached with Jeonghan, arms linked and radiating newlywed bliss. "Look who finally decided to join the land of the living! We were starting to think you two had eloped yourselves." Jeonghan chuckled, nudging Seungcheol gently. "You looked quite smitten out there on the dance floor. Didn't even notice everyone else had left."
Mingyu’s ears burned, and Wonwoo’s cheeks flushed a delicate pink. "Hyung," Mingyu mumbled, feeling a tad flustered. "We were just… enjoying the music."
Jeonghan’s eyes twinkled mischievously. "Oh, I'm sure you were. The music of love, perhaps?" He winked, and Seungcheol let out a hearty laugh.
Wonwoo, though clearly shy, managed a small smile. "It was a lovely song," he said softly, avoiding Mingyu’s gaze for a fleeting moment before meeting it again with a hint of amusement.
Seungcheol clapped Mingyu on the shoulder. "Alright, alright, we won't pry too much. But you two looked good together. Really good." He exchanged a knowing glance with Jeonghan. "Just saying."
Feeling the heat rise in his cheeks, Mingyu gently took Wonwoo’s hand. "Come on, Wonwoo-ssi," he said, trying to steer them away from the teasing newlyweds. "Let's get some fresh air."
They slipped out of the remaining bustle of the reception, the soft murmur of well-wishes fading behind them. The venue grounds were quieter now, illuminated by strings of delicate fairy lights woven through the trees, creating a magical, intimate atmosphere. They found a secluded bench nestled beneath a large oak tree, the twinkling lights casting dancing shadows around them.
They sat down, a comfortable silence settling between them, the playful teasing of Seungcheol and Jeonghan still echoing faintly in their ears.
"They're happy," Wonwoo said softly, breaking the quiet, a small smile playing on his lips as he looked towards the venue.
Mingyu nodded, his gaze following Wonwoo’s. "Yeah, they really are. It’s nice to see." He turned back to Wonwoo, the soft glow of the fairy lights illuminating his face. "You know," he began, his voice a touch deeper, a touch more earnest than his usual playful tone, "tonight was… unexpectedly wonderful. Spending time with you, I mean." He mentally cringed at his slightly awkward phrasing.
Wonwoo’s smile was soft, the kind that crinkled the corners of his eyes and made Mingyu’s stomach do a little flip. "It was for me too, Mingyu. Truly. Jeonghan hyung’s wedding was lovely, of course, but… talking with you was the highlight."
Mingyu’s heart did a little happy dance. "So," he began, trying to sound casual but failing miserably as his palms started to sweat, "I was wondering… if maybe… you'd be open to, you know, doing this again? But, like, a proper outing? A date, perhaps?" He braced himself for a polite refusal, picturing all the ways he’d misread the signals.
Wonwoo’s eyes widened, a delightful blush blooming on his cheeks that Mingyu found utterly endearing. "A date?" he echoed, a hint of surprised delight in his voice.
"Yeah," Mingyu rushed on, suddenly feeling like an overly enthusiastic puppy. "We could… I could visit your flower shop! I’d genuinely love to see it sometime. Or… or we could go see that weird documentary about competitive cheese rolling you mentioned. Or… anything you'd like, really. I’m open." He punctuated his offer with a hopeful grin that he hoped wasn’t too goofy.
Wonwoo hesitated for a beat, his gaze searching Mingyu’s face, as if trying to decipher his sincerity. Mingyu held his breath, resisting the urge to fidget. Then, a small, genuine smile spread across Wonwoo’s lips. "I… I think I would really like that, Mingyu."
Mingyu’s face broke into a wide, unrestrained grin. "Really? That’s… that’s fantastic!" He might have pumped his fist subtly. Maybe.
"How about tomorrow?" Wonwoo suggested, his smile widening, a newfound confidence in his voice. "I usually close the shop a little early on Sundays to water my more temperamental orchids. We could have dinner afterwards? There’s a little place near my shop that makes the most amazing kimchi jjigae ."
"Tomorrow?" Mingyu repeated, his eyes practically sparkling. "That’s absolutely perfect. Consider it a date! I can pick you up from your shop?" He imagined himself waiting outside "Seol's Blooms," feeling ridiculously excited.
"I'd like that very much," Wonwoo said softly, his eyes meeting Mingyu’s with a warmth that made Mingyu’s heart do another little leap.
They fumbled for their phones, exchanging numbers in a flurry of slightly clumsy movements, their fingers brushing in the process. That brief, accidental touch sent a surprising jolt of something akin to mild electrocution through both of them, a spark, if you will, resulting in a shared, slightly embarrassed smile.
Wonwoo’s brows furrowed slightly as he read a message before his expression softened as he typed a quick reply, and then he looked up, a slightly apologetic smile on his face. "That was my brother, Chan," he explained. "He just texted to say they're almost done helping with the egress of the decorations. He’s probably waiting for me."
A pang of disappointment, subtle but definitely present, flickered through Mingyu. He hadn't wanted the night to end just yet. "Oh," he said, trying to keep his tone light. "Right. Of course."
If Wonwoo hadn’t glanced down at his phone at that exact moment, they might have lingered longer. Perhaps Mingyu would have found the courage to suggest a walk around the grounds, bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight this time. Maybe Wonwoo would have shared another shy smile, their conversation continuing to weave its easy, comfortable thread. They might have discovered another shared interest—a love for old true crime documentaries, or a secret penchant for cheesy reality TV. The possibilities felt endless, each one sparking a fresh wave of excitement in Mingyu’s chest.
Wonwoo seemed to sense his slight shift in mood. "But… tomorrow!" he said quickly, his earlier enthusiasm returning, his eyes sparkling in the dim light. "Tomorrow will be even better, right? No wedding duties, just… us."
Mingyu’s grin returned instantly, chasing away the fleeting disappointment. "Right," he affirmed, his heart doing a little leap at the thought of their date. "Tomorrow. I'm already looking forward to it."
As Wonwoo turned to leave, a small wave of his hand and a final, lingering smile directed at Mingyu, a white delivery van with the logo of Seol’s Bloom placed prominently, pulled up to the curb nearby. The driver's side window rolled down, and Mingyu caught a brief glimpse of a younger man with a familiar, warm smile—undoubtedly Wonwoo’s brother, Chan.
Mingyu watched as Wonwoo approached the car, a final glance back at him before sliding into the passenger seat. The car pulled away smoothly, disappearing into the night. A sense of yearning settled in Mingyu’s chest, a pleasant ache of anticipation for the day to come. He replayed their conversations in his head, the easy laughter, the shared smiles, the unexpected connection. Tomorrow couldn't come soon enough. Mingyu had a feeling this was just the beginning of something truly special, a real-life romantic comedy unfolding just for him, a lively interior designer, co-starring a shy florist and their adorable dogs. The thought made him smile all the way back to his own car.
⋆˚✿˖°
The next day, Mingyu, feeling a level of nervous excitement he hadn't experienced since asking his high school crush to the prom, arrived at "Seol's Blooms." Clutching a single, perfectly formed white rose—a silent promise of new beginnings and pure intentions he’d agonized over choosing—he felt a little ridiculous and a lot hopeful.
Wonwoo, catching sight of him through the charmingly cluttered shop window, surrounded by a riot of color and fragrance, visibly perked up. A genuine smile bloomed on his face, chasing away the focused concentration he’d worn while arranging a bouquet. He hurried to the door, a welcoming light in his eyes.
"Mingyu," he said, his voice soft, a hint of surprise and pleasure in his tone. "You really didn't have to."
"But I wanted to," Mingyu said, feeling a surge of warmth as he offered the rose. It was a single, pristine white bloom, its velvety petals unfurling in a perfect spiral. The stem was carefully wrapped in simple brown paper, tied with a cute, slightly askew baby-blue ribbon that Mingyu had picked out after much deliberation, hoping it wasn't too childish. "It’s for you. Because… well, because flowers." He mentally face-palmed at his own awkwardness. "God, this is so stupid, isn't it?" he rambled on, a nervous laugh escaping him. "Bringing a single white rose to a florist? It's like bringing sand to the beach. You're surrounded by thousands of beautiful blooms every day. This probably looks so pathetic compared to everything you create…"
Wonwoo’s slender fingers gently closed around the stem, his touch sending a familiar little spark through Mingyu. He looked up, his gaze meeting Mingyu's, a soft, genuine smile playing on his lips that made Mingyu’s nervous rambling cease. "Mingyu," he said, his voice calm and sincere, his eyes holding a warmth that melted away Mingyu’s self-consciousness. "It's beautiful. More beautiful than any bouquet or any elaborate arrangement I have here." He paused, his thumb softly stroking a petal. "Because," he continued, his voice a quiet murmur, "you were thinking of me when you chose this. That makes it more precious than all the other flowers in the world."
A wave of warmth washed over Mingyu, chasing away his embarrassment. Wonwoo’s words, so simple and heartfelt, resonated deeply within him. "Really?" he asked, a hopeful smile spreading across his face.
"Really," Wonwoo confirmed, his gaze unwavering. "Thank you, Mingyu."
The date that followed was everything Mingyu had hoped for, and perhaps a little more chaotic in a charming, rom-com sort of way. Exploring "Seol's Blooms" was like stepping into a fragrant wonderland, with Wonwoo as the enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, occasionally having to rescue Mingyu from accidentally knocking over delicate arrangements with his characteristic clumsiness. They shared stories—Mingyu recounting embarrassing childhood anecdotes with dramatic flair, Wonwoo offering quieter, more insightful tales punctuated by his dry wit. They laughed—a lot—often at Mingyu’s expense (his attempt to identify different types of lilies was particularly disastrous). They discovered some more things about each other like their shared love for bad puns and a surprising agreement on the merits of pineapple on pizza (a controversial opinion that solidified their bond).
As the evening drew to a close, the kimchi jjigae having been declared a resounding success (with Mingyu now a proud, albeit slightly teary-eyed, convert to its spicy charms), Mingyu walked Wonwoo back towards his condo building, the city lights painting long, dancing shadows beside them.
"I had an absolutely amazing time, Wonwoo," Mingyu said, the sincerity in his voice evident. He tucked a stray strand of hair behind Wonwoo’s ear, a small, tender gesture that felt incredibly natural.
"Me too, Mingyu," Wonwoo replied softly, his gaze lingering on Mingyu’s, a sweet smile playing on his lips. "It was very easy to be with you."
They stopped outside the entrance of Wonwoo’s building, a comfortable silence settling between them, thick with unspoken possibilities. Mingyu felt an undeniable pull towards Wonwoo, a desire to bridge the small gap that remained.
"Wait a minute," Mingyu began, when it occurred to him where they were, "you live here?”
“Yeah.”
“Oh God, it truly is a small world. Guess who lives here too?” Mingyu said, pointing both thumbs at himself.
Wonwoo’s eyes widened in surprise. "Really? You live here too?"
"Yeah!" Mingyu exclaimed, a wide grin spreading across his face. "I’m on the fourth floor. You’re…?"
"The seventh," Wonwoo replied, a look of delighted astonishment on his face. "We live in the same building? All this time?"
Wonwoo’s eyes sparkled. "Exactly! We should definitely rectify that. In fact," he suggested, a newfound excitement in his voice, "Bobpul usually has his evening walk around now, doesn't he? Seol's been a bit restless inside. Maybe… maybe we could take them to the dog park nearby tonight? Let them really stretch their legs and properly meet?"
Mingyu’s face lit up. "The dog park? That’s a fantastic idea! Bobpul would love that." He hadn't expected to see Wonwoo again so soon.
"Perfect!" Wonwoo said, a bright smile gracing his lips. "How about I quickly get Seol's leash, and you grab Bobpul? We can meet back down here in a few minutes."
A shared sense of giddy anticipation filled the air as they made their impromptu plans. Just moments later, Mingyu reappeared with a tail-wagging Bobpul, who seemed to sense the promise of a grand adventure. Wonwoo was waiting in the lobby with Seol, who let out a happy little yip upon seeing Bobpul.
As they walked towards the nearby dog park, the two dogs, initially a bundle of excited sniffs and tail wags, quickly settled into a playful camaraderie, chasing after each other and exploring the grassy expanse with joyful abandon. Mingyu and Wonwoo walked side-by-side, their conversation flowing as easily as it had during dinner. They talked about their dogs’ personalities, their funny quirks, and their shared joy in seeing their furry companions so happy. Bobpul and Seol, meanwhile, seemed to be having their own little adventure, occasionally nudging each other and engaging in bursts of playful running.
By the time they decided to head back, both dogs were happily tired, panting contentedly as they walked on their leashes. Standing outside Wonwoo’s seventh-floor apartment door, a comfortable silence settled between them.
"Thank you for suggesting the dog park," Mingyu said, his voice warm. "It was really nice seeing them both so happy."
Wonwoo smiled, a hint of tiredness around his eyes. "Me too. Seol hasn't had that much fun in ages." He leaned against his doorframe, a soft sigh escaping his lips. "Actually," he confessed, a playful glint in his eyes despite his weariness, "the idea about the dog park tonight… it wasn't entirely for the dogs."
Mingyu’s eyebrows rose, a hopeful smile tugging at his lips. "Oh?"
Wonwoo nodded, his gaze softening. "I just… I really wanted to spend more time with you, Mingyu. Even though I’m suddenly feeling quite sleepy, the thought of ending the night so soon… it didn't feel right."
A wave of affection washed over Mingyu. He took a step closer, his hand gently reaching out to cup Wonwoo’s cheek. Wonwoo leaned into the touch, his eyes closing for a moment.
"You’re adorable, Wonwoo," Mingyu murmured, his thumb softly stroking Wonwoo’s cheek.
Wonwoo’s eyes fluttered open, his gaze soft and filled with a sweet tenderness.
"I had an absolutely amazing time," Mingyu said, the sincerity in his voice evident.
"Me too," Wonwoo replied softly, his gaze lingering on Mingyu’s.
They stood outside Wonwoo’s door, a comfortable silence settling between them, thick with unspoken possibilities. Mingyu felt an undeniable pull towards Wonwoo, a desire to bridge the small gap that remained.
"Can I… can I kiss you, Wonwoo?" Mingyu asked, his voice barely a whisper, suddenly terrified of misinterpreting the moment.
Wonwoo’s gaze was soft and filled with a longing that mirrored Mingyu’s own. "Yes," he breathed, the word a feather-light affirmation.
Mingyu leaned in slightly, closing the small distance between them. Their lips met in a gentle, lingering kiss, a quiet acknowledgment of the connection they had forged, a promise of more shared moments to come, fueled by happy dogs and a mutual desire for each other’s company.
"That was…" Mingyu began, his voice a little husky, when he pulled back slightly from their tender first kiss.
"Perfect," Wonwoo finished, a radiant smile finally breaking through his shyness.
A soft chuckle escaped Mingyu’s lips. "I think Seol and Bobpul had as good a time as we did," he murmured, his eyes still half-closed in contentment.
"They really did," Wonwoo agreed, his gaze still locked on Mingyu’s. He shifted slightly, intending to take a step back, but found himself unexpectedly rooted to the spot. A puzzled frown creased his brow as he looked down.
That's when they both noticed it. In their owners' absorbed state, Seol's leash and Bobpul's leash, likely tangled during one of their enthusiastic chases around the dog park, had somehow managed to loop around their ankles, effectively tethering Mingyu and Wonwoo together.
Wonwoo stared down at the accidental knot, a bemused smile spreading across his face. He looked back up at Mingyu, whose eyes were wide with a mixture of surprise and amusement. "Well," Wonwoo giggled, a warm feeling spreading through his chest, "it seems these two have been trying to bring us together ever since that chaotic wedding. They're our little cupids, aren't they?"
Mingyu smiled. "In that case," he said, his voice full of warmth, "thank you, Bobpul, for needing that extra run. And thank you, Seol, for being such a great playmate."
Wonwoo chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling. "Yes," he agreed, his smile radiant despite his fatigue. "Thank you, our wonderful, furry little matchmakers." And with a final, lingering look, he opened his door, the promise of more dog park adventures and a blossoming romance hanging sweetly in the air as they bid each other good night.
And in that moment, surrounded by the faint, lingering scent of a thousand blooms clinging to Wonwoo’s clothes, Mingyu knew, with a certainty that warmed him from the inside out, that his heart had found something truly special. Their slightly awkward, undeniably charming meet-cute, born from a moment of canine-induced chaos under a floral archway, had indeed blossomed into something beautiful, something real, and something that felt like the start of a very promising, and likely very funny, love story.