The café was a haven of warmth and soft lighting, the perfect backdrop for a first meeting between two people who had only known each other through screens. Minjeong and Karina sat across from each other, the initial nerves giving way to a more relaxed atmosphere as they began to chat. Minjeong found herself wrestling with her usual reserve, the upbeat and cheerful demeanor of Karina making her feel even more self-conscious.

 

“So,” Karina started, stirring her coffee, “since we’re finally meeting in person, why don’t we start with the basics? What’s your real name, and how old are you?”

 

Minjeong took a deep breath, her fingers nervously tracing the rim of her coffee cup. “Well, my real name is Kim Minjeong. I’m twenty-seven.”

 

Karina's eyes widened slightly. “Twenty-seven? You look younger than that! I’m twenty-eight, by the way. It's such a little now, isn't it?”

 

Minjeong smiled faintly, trying to ignore the pang of awkwardness. “A day actually. If I was born a day early, we could be the same age."

 

Karina grinned, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Born on January 1st? Wow. So, what made you decide to join a dating app? It seems like you’re pretty successful and have everything going for you.”

 

Minjeong hesitated, her usual composure faltering under Karina's earnest gaze. “Honestly, it’s not something I ever thought I’d do. I’ve always been focused on work, and the idea of dating apps seemed… well, not my style. But my family has been pressuring me about my love life, and I thought maybe it was time to at least explore the possibility.”

 

Karina tilted her head, clearly interested. “And how’s that been going for you so far?”

 

Minjeong shrugged, her cheeks flushing slightly. “It’s been a mix of curiosity and skepticism. Meeting you was kind of a last-minute decision—part of me was still unsure about this whole thing.”

 

The law student's expression softened, her voice taking on a more comforting tone. “I get it. I’ve had my share of bad luck in love, so I understand the hesitation. For me, I joined because I wanted to meet someone who genuinely wants a serious relationship. It’s not always easy to find that in the usual dating scene.”

 

Minjeong nodded, feeling a bit more at ease. “That’s understandable. It’s nice to know that we’re both looking for something serious.”

 

Karina's face brightened as she spoke again. “Oh, and I should introduce myself properly. My full name is Yoo Jimin, and as I mentioned, I’m twenty-eight. I’m still in law school, which might seem unusual for someone my age.”

 

Minjeong raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Why is that?”

 

Her smile turned a bit wistful then. “I come from a middle-class family, and I didn’t have the luxury of a scholarship. I had to juggle part-time jobs to support myself before I could even start law school. It’s been a long road, but I’m determined to finish and make it worth the effort.”

 

Minjeong listened intently, admiring Karina's—or Jimin's now resilience. “That sounds incredibly challenging. I can see why you’d value a serious relationship—someone who understands the hard work you’ve put in.”

 

Jimin nodded, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and hope. “Exactly. It’s not just about finding someone to be with—it’s about finding someone who truly gets where you’re coming from.”

 

There was a brief silence as they both sipped their drinks, the initial awkwardness gradually dissolving into a more comfortable rapport. Jimin’s bright and open personality made it easier for Minjeong to relax, though she still found herself grappling with her usual introverted tendencies.

 

“So, Karina, or should I call you Jimin now?" Earning an eager nod from the girl, Minjeong continued, trying to steer the conversation, “what do you do in your free time? Any hobbies or interests?”

 

Jimin’s face lit up as she spoke. “I’m really into hiking and photography. I love exploring new places and capturing moments. It’s my way of escaping the stress of law school and just enjoying life.”

 

Minjeong couldn’t help but smile at Jimin’s enthusiasm. “That sounds wonderful. I’ve never been much of a hiker, but I do enjoy reading and cooking. It’s a way to unwind after a busy day.”

 

Jimin’s eyes sparkled with interest. “Reading and cooking sound great! What’s your favorite book?”

 

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