The Odd Doctor Out | A Drama | S. 2

235 🩺 The Big Day

Sitting at the cozy restaurant table, Yeosang's arm felt warm pressed against Jongho's side. Surrounded by other colleagues of Jongho's mother, as well as their husbands and even some of their children, the dinner was nothing like Yeosang had expected.

Tinkling laughter and friendly banter floated over hotpots, side dishes, and bowls of rice, capturing Yeosang's attention. However the moment he felt Jongho's hand on his thigh under the table, he glanced over, distracted.

Jongho leaned over and put his lips to his ear, whispering softly, 'Are you doin' okay?'

And Yeosang could reply honestly. 'Yes. Everyone's actually really nice.'

Melting under Jongho's relieved smile, Yeosang slipped his hand down under the table and into the younger's, entwining their fingers together.

Too busy gazing at each other as though they were in their own universe, Yeosang literally flinched when a voice spooked him from across the table.

'You two are adorable. How long have you been together?'

Yeosang felt a shy wave wash over him, and felt relieved when Jongho leant forward and took initiative. 'Since earlier this semester.'

The Ajuma cooed, smiling widely. 'Budding love, how sweet~. How did you meet?'

'Mutual friends.' Jongho squeezed his hand under the table, giving him a warm smile.

'How lovely. It is quite a small world, isn't it?'

Nodding, Yeosang felt his heart melt at how casual and confident Jongho sounded. It almost felt as though the tables had turned, and Yeosang was the younger out of the two...

'Yeosang darling, do you also study medicine?'

Yeosang shook his head, smiling despite his heart suddenly aching. 'Not anymore.'

'Oh goodness, what ever happened?!'

Glancing down, Yeosang took a strong breath, pushing back his disappointment and concern. 'Some family issues came up, and it just worked out better that I stay home...'

She nodded. 'Aww that is so very unfortunate. But you must know that you will be far more equipped to look after your family from the perspective of a registered practitioner...?'

Yeosang gulped, squeezing Jongho's hand for support.

'He's doing the best he can for his family at the moment,' he said, giving him a warm nod and leaning into him a little. 'Med doesn't leave much room for spare time, which makes it hard to look after your family.'

'Oh darling. That I can imagine.'

Smiling, although Yeosang felt suddenly saddened, he couldn't help but notice the care and genuinity in the Ajuma's voice. She had proven herself throughout the night to be very wise and understanding woman, and it made Yeosang mull over those words...

But you must know that you will be far more equipped to look after your family from the perspective of a registered practitioner...?

Could she be right about that? Could Yeosang better look after his brother, both financially and emotionally... Could he be a better role model for his brother...?

Jongho suddenly leaned over and whispered in his ear. 'I think it's time to go.'

Yeosang glanced over at him, at then the clock, and then back at him. 'But we've only been here an hour...?'

Jongho shrugged. 'Maybe I want you all to myself for a while?' he said casually despite his wink

And Yeosang melted. 'Sounds like a plan.'

~~~