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JAEHEE X READER

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STUDIO GHIBLI

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Word count : 1121

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Y/N could hardly contain her excitement as she sat on the bench outside the Studio Ghibli Museum, fidgeting with her phone. The air was filled with the smell of cherry blossoms, and sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a soft glow on the museum entrance. After months of planning, she was finally here, waiting for Jaehee.

They'd met by chance months ago, just before he debuted with NCT Wish. Somehow, through shared laughter, late-night conversations, and stolen moments, they'd become close friends. He'd been on tour, busy with a whirlwind of concerts and promotions, but today he had a rare break—and he'd promised her they'd visit Studio Ghibli together.

"Y/N!" a familiar voice called out.

She looked up, grinning as she saw Jaehee running toward her, wearing a beanie and a comfortable hoodie. His face lit up with a boyish smile that made her heart skip a beat, and she quickly stood up to greet him.

"You made it!" she said, half-laughing, as he came to a stop in front of her.

He smiled sheepishly, catching his breath. "Yeah! I almost missed my train, but I couldn't let you down. I've been looking forward to this all week."

Jaehee's eyes sparkled with excitement, and she felt a warmth spread through her chest. He'd been working so hard on tour, and she knew how much this short break meant to him. That he was spending it here, with her, meant the world.

"Shall we go in?" she asked, gesturing to the entrance.

"Absolutely," he replied, nodding eagerly.

As they entered, the magical atmosphere of Studio Ghibli washed over them. The museum was like stepping into a dream, with its whimsical architecture, vibrant colors, and enchanting displays inspired by the beloved films of Hayao Miyazaki.

They wandered through the exhibits, admiring the intricate models and storyboards. Each room transported them to a different world: the vast green fields of *My Neighbor Totoro*, the bustling spirit world of *Spirited Away*, and the mysterious landscapes of *Princess Mononoke*. Y/N felt like a kid again, and she could see the same wonder reflected in Jaehee's eyes.

They paused in front of a life-sized Catbus replica, and Jaehee couldn't help but laugh. "Do you think it's big enough for us to fit in?" he asked, nudging her playfully.

She grinned. "Only one way to find out."

They climbed into the soft, plush seats of the Catbus, both giggling like children as they took pictures together. Jaehee made silly faces, trying to match the expressions of the characters, and Y/N couldn't stop laughing. It felt surreal, sharing such a carefree moment with him in a place they both loved.

After a while, they moved on, wandering through the galleries that showcased original sketches and concept art. Jaehee's fingers brushed the glass as he admired the detailed drawings, his expression soft and focused.

"I've always admired how much heart they put into these films," he said quietly. "Each one is like...a piece of someone's soul."

Y/N nodded, feeling the same sense of awe. "That's what makes them so special. They're not just stories; they're dreams that come to life."

They continued exploring, and eventually made their way to a small café within the museum. It was cozy and warm, filled with soft music and the smell of freshly brewed tea. They ordered a few snacks and sat by the window, gazing out at the garden where statues of Totoro and other characters stood.

As they ate, they talked about everything and nothing—their favorite Ghibli movies, the characters they related to, the moments in each film that had moved them the most. Y/N found herself mesmerized by the way Jaehee's eyes lit up as he spoke, his passion shining through with every word.

"So," he asked, leaning forward with a grin, "if you could live in any Ghibli world, which one would you choose?"

She took a moment to think, smiling as she answered, "I think I'd choose *Howl's Moving Castle.* There's just something magical about traveling in that moving house, going wherever you want, whenever you want."

Jaehee laughed, nodding. "Good choice! I'd probably pick *Castle in the Sky*. Imagine flying through the clouds on that giant airship, seeing the world from above. It would feel like absolute freedom."

They exchanged stories and dreams, and for a while, it felt like they were the only two people in the world. Y/N couldn't remember the last time she'd felt so at ease, so understood. The pressures of their daily lives seemed to melt away in the warmth of their friendship.

After finishing their snacks, they wandered outside to the rooftop garden, where a towering statue of the robot soldier from *Laputa: Castle in the Sky* stood. The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the garden, and they paused to admire the view.

"It's beautiful," Jaehee murmured, his voice soft.

Y/N nodded, feeling a gentle breeze ruffle her hair. "It really is."

For a moment, they stood in silence, side by side, watching as the colors of the sunset painted the sky. Jaehee glanced at her, his gaze warm and thoughtful.

"Thank you for today, Y/N," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I know it was just a short visit, but...it was exactly what I needed. You always know how to make everything feel special."

She smiled, her heart swelling with affection. "I'm just glad you enjoyed it. I know how hard you've been working, and I wanted you to have a little break—something to remember whenever things get tough."

They shared a look, a quiet understanding passing between them. In that moment, she realized that this day was something she'd hold close to her heart as well. It wasn't just about the museum or the memories they'd made; it was about the friendship they'd built, the connection that made even the simplest moments feel extraordinary.

As they walked back toward the entrance, Jaehee reached out, gently taking her hand. The gesture was unexpected but comforting, a silent promise of the bond they shared.

"Let's come back here again someday," he said, his voice soft. "No matter where life takes us, I want to make more memories like this with you."

Y/N felt a warmth spread through her chest, and she squeezed his hand, smiling. "I'd like that too, Jaehee."

They left the museum together, hand in hand, as the stars began to twinkle in the sky. It was a day they'd both remember—a day filled with laughter, dreams, and a friendship that felt as magical as any Studio Ghibli film.

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