NOVPUBJust like what he said, Minjae hadn't opened any of his social media accounts for the last 3 days.
Currently, he was strolling inside the mall. He was wearing a black mask to cover half of his face and a black hat that hid the other half of it.
At lunchtime, the mall was already packed with people going around, buying some of the things. It was already the third week of December, and Christmas was just around the corner.
The mall was decorated all throughout. There were strings of warm white light crisscrossed above the walkways, twinkling as if they were bright stars. Enormous wreaths hung from the ceiling, and a towering Christmas tree dominated the center of the mall, stretching up until its highest floor.
The speakers played soft, jazzy music of Christmas music. It echoed gently through the halls, giving the whole place a cozy and festive atmosphere.
As he was walking, Minjae adjusted the cap on his head. He pulled it lower, and tugged his mask higher, trying to keep a low profile. Fortunately, a lot of people also had the same setup as he, so he looked just normal.
Even though he wasn't a big star yet, he wasn't in the mood to deal with recognition. Not after the chaos that happened last few days.
Minjae found himself slowly wandering around the mall. He was just enjoying the fact that he could still freely walk around. He also hadn't gone out that much because he was too busy with his schedule.
Now that he was free for a little bit, he wanted to maximize and use his time wisely. Plus, for the first time in his life, he actually had money to spend.
He was able to save a few million won under his name in just a few months. It wasn't enough to buy luxury watches and all that, but it was enough for him to be at ease for a few months.
Now, he could spend on a few things he needed and wanted without guilt. Still, he was wise with his money, knowing that the future is uncertain, and he still hadn't gotten a clear standing in the acting industry.
"Alright, where should I go?"
Minjae walked past a window display showcasing leather jackets and nice sneakers, from a popular sports brand.
'Do I need those?' he thought to himself.
However, when he recalled that he still had some unused clothes, he shook his head and went past them.
'Maybe I should buy some gifts.'
Minjae hadn't really planned on it, but seeing the Christmas decorations everywhere had nudged something inside him.
Donghyun had worked so hard for him these past months, even if he was barely getting payments from them. He also thought of Jihoon and Yura. The two were nice and were really supportive.
It wouldn't be that bad to give them some gifts, knowing that he was their first workmate.
He thought that they deserved at least something small for Christmas.
Minjae thought of something that Donghyun would like. The first thing that came into his mind was a wallet.
He had given Donghyun a wallet every year in the past. Though it wasn't only an ordinary wallet, but one with a huge check inside. It was like a tradition for him every Christmas.
Though for now, he wouldn't be able to add anything to it.
But still, it was fun.
Minjae went up into a store that sells good-quality men's clothing and accessories. He picked up a sleek and simple black wallet for Donghyun. It was something, but also stylish enough that he could use it every day.
For Jihoon, Minjae found a funny baseball cap embroidered with a silly drawing in front. He noticed that Jihoon liked wearing caps on the set all the time. And since Jihoon was a littly goofy and funny, Minjae wanted to match his personality with it.
Either way, Jihoon for sure would have liked it. Even by now, he could already picture him laughing when he opened it.
And for Yura...
Minjae hesitated about it for a while. She was already walking through the women's section awkwardly, until he found a delicate silver bracelet. It was simple but elegant. It also wasn't flashy or expensive, just right for her.
Minjae also bought a bottle of wine for Chanhyuk. The man has been kind enough, and he was also a good director, so Minjae just thought to give him a little something.
After paying for the last item, Minjae carefully tucked the small shopping bags under his arms and made his way to the walkway to walk around even more.
As Minjae strolled through the crowded mall, he noticed how almost everyone around him carried at least one shopping bag, while some with their arms full.
Parents juggled colorful packages while trying to keep track of their kids. Couples strolled hand in hand, stopping by gift booths or sweet shops. And numerous groups of friends took selfies in front of the giant Christmas tree, their faces filled with excitement.
It was obvious that everyone was busy preparing for Christmas—buying gifts, planning dinners, and maybe even getting ready to go back to their hometowns.
Minjae slowed down a little, clutching the shopping bags closer to his chest.
'Hmm… What am I going to do for Christmas?'
The question drifted into his mind quietly, almost catching him off guard.
He hadn't really thought about it until now.
Before, Christmas was always a busy day with his family and other friends. They used to be loud, with lots of food, expensive decorations, gifts.
But now...
Minjae let out a soft sigh, barely audible under his mask.
This year would be different.
For the first time, he would be spending it alone.
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A/N:
Hi everyone! It's close to the end of the month, so I would like to say thank you to all of you for supporting this novel throughout the month of April!
I would also like to mention a few people:
DaoistpZHuQW, kokaneeRanger, Robin_Lindberg, jergenmay, NG47, Arluna_Cantayani, Vailin_Maurgen, JustbehappyReader, _jaeheee13.
Thank you for dropping Golden Tickets and Gift to this novel.
I appreciate you all very much.
