The sudden rain brought hope. Many believed the worst was over—that life would soon return to normal.
Under that fragile optimism, the rain continued.
Three days passed.
The temperature dropped steadily, returning to something almost bearable.
On the fourth day, people began venturing outside again, cautiously testing the world.
But that night... The rain intensified.
Wind howled through the darkness, a low, ominous roar.
Inside, however, Suzy and Leonard remained untouched by the storm.
Tonight, they were having hot pot.
An induction cooker sat on the coffee table, the tomato broth bubbling vigorously, releasing a rich, inviting aroma.
Thin slices of beef, tripe, shrimp paste, and fresh vegetables filled the cart beside them.
Outside—cold rain and raging wind.
Inside—warm light, rising steam, and comfort.
They sat together, dipping slices of meat into the rolling broth, occasionally clinking their glasses of iced drinks with a crisp sound.
