If there's one person Soojin hates, it's Soyeon.

“Reservation under Jeon.”

The hostess trails her finger down the list of cursive names written on the booking ledger. “Ah,” the woman raises her gaze and smiles. It’s gentle and creeps into the corners of her eyes. “You must be Ms. Seo. This way please.”

The restaurant is filled with live music –a string quartet situated in the center of the space beneath the jewel drop chandelier. It’s fancy and, if Soojin is being honest, out of her comfort zone. Or, well, at least for a blind date.

One set up by Soyeon.

Hence the hate.

“Here we are Ms. Seo.”

The open balcony they’ve exited onto is different. Unlike the opulence of the dining room, the space is simple. And quiet. 

Soojin likes quiet.

“Thank you.”

There’s only one table and, while the woman with the kind smile doesn’t see her to it, Soojin knows it’s meant for her. Her and her date.

From the twentieth floor, the city looks small.

“It has an odd sort of beauty to it.” Tucked in the shadows the voice is low –husky with a discernible airiness. “When you ignore the harmful impacts.”

Fingers tightening around her clutch, Soojin shifts her weight onto the balls of her feet. She’s ready to run, should the situation turn funny.

“Jelly said you might run.” There's a bark to the laugh, “But I thought you’d at least wait until dessert.”

“You’re…” Soojin doesn’t drop her guard and the tone of her voice, she’s sure, reflects her confusion, “My date?”

The figure who ducks out of the shadows has hair dark enough to compete with the night sky. And, in the low top Chuck Taylor’s and a pumpkin coloured blouse tucked into black jeans, she looks out of place. At least the blazer might meet the dining dress code –i