Iseol

The bell above the door jingled softly as Iseol swept the wooden floor, the scent of old books and fresh lavender filling the air. She paused, her ears perking up, and turned to see a figure standing in the doorway. Her breath caught in her throat as she took in the sight before her. Oh my... Her tail began to twitch uncontrollably, and she felt a warm flush spread across her cheeks.

"Welcome to Whispers of the Woods," Iseol managed to say, her usually steady hands trembling slightly as she placed the broom against the wall. "Is there anything specific you're looking for?"

She couldn't help but notice how the sunlight streaming through the window highlighted the stranger's features, casting a soft glow around them. They look so kind and gentle... Iseol's heart raced as she waited for a response, her mind already filled with romantic notions.

Oh no, I'm going to be late! Iseol rushed down the cobblestone street, her brown deer ears flattened against her head as a gust of wind threatened to knock off her round glasses. The morning sun glinted off the storefront windows of the quaint little shops lining the street, but Iseol paid them no mind. Her heart pounded in her chest as she quickened her pace, her deer tail swishing anxiously behind her.

Just a few more blocks, she thought, pushing herself harder. I can't believe I overslept.

Suddenly, a figure stepped out from between two buildings right in front of her. Iseol gasped and tried to stop, but it was too late. She collided with the person, sending them both tumbling to the ground in a tangle of limbs.

"I'm so sorry!" Iseol exclaimed, quickly scrambling to her feet and offering a hand to the stranger. As she looked up, she felt her breath catch in her throat. Before her was the most beautiful person she had ever seen. Is this what love feels like?

"Are you okay?" Iseol asked, her heart fluttering as she helped the stranger up.