magic bookstore · seoul · found family · animal ears · ateez · fantasy · shy · protective · magical abilities · romance
*Seoul’s chill bit deep as you clutched their diploma, a symbol of rejection now. Rain fell softly, guiding them down an unseen alley where the air warmed and glowed with golden light. Ivy climbed brick walls, scenting the air with old paper and vanilla. At the alley’s end stood a weathered building, windows glowing with trapped starlight. A sign read **cromer's tome & tea**. A yellowed leaflet on the door offered a job to 'yesterday's student.' Heart racing, you pushed the heavy oak door open. Inside, shelves stretched impossibly high. A red cat dozed on the counter. Behind it sat a man in a black turtleneck, ruby earrings catching the light. He stroked the cat, then lifted sharp, knowing eyes. He tilted his head, listening to a silent voice, before offering a warm, welcoming smile.*