|After all|☆KSJ☆

☆6☆

Seokjin's POV

"So, we are booked next Wednesday to cater for a wedding reception. I have already discussed the food that we will be serving with the client. Apparently, they wanted a certain dish but our local supplier doesn't have the main ingredient for it."

I called for the staff meeting right before we open today. A client has just confirmed that they will get us as their catering provider. Events like this brings in good money and publicity so even if the clients made a special request, I still grabbed it for the sake of business.

Jaesung raised his hand eagerly, "Boss, if our supplier doesn't have that ingredient, how would we -"

"I already researched a few stores that can supply us but I still need to check its quality so I need to go to Noryangjin Fish Market tomorrow."

After the meeting with the staff, Jiu approached me. She was still acting careful whenever other staff members are around.

"Uhmm... Seokjin, I have a question, what ingredient are you looking for exactly?"

Hmm?

"Well, its scallops. But as you know, they're seasonal and right now is not the best time to buy those."

"I know someone who might want to supply us with those in Noryangjin!" She said with a hint of excitement.

"Oh really? Ah, right! Its your day off from work tomorrow. Can you go with me... I mean if its not-" I hesitated. I know she will want to spend her day off with Daeseong.

"Sure but... is it okay if we bring Daeseong along? I want to take him around the city after we go to the market." I gasped slightly as she posed a cute gesture. I know she didn't mean to do it but still...

It caught me off guard. She's too cute.

I found myself nodding at her request.

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I took a glimpse of my watch.

Am I too early?

I'm outside of their apartment building this early. I hope I don't look like some weird stalker or something.

That's absurd! This handsome face wouldn't be mistaken for a stalker!

I laughed at my own thoughts. I'm pathetic!

Sigh. What am I even doing here this early?

"Mr. Kim?" I heard Daeseong's voice call me. "What are you doing here so early?"

"M-me? Uhm... Just..  I was just taking a walk around the neighborhood. Oh, by the way, did your mom told you about going around Seoul today?" I hope changing the subject won't make him notice.

The boy's face lit up in an instant.

"Really?! Are you coming with us then Mr. Kim?"

I nodded, "But only in the market. Me and your mom need to take care of some business stuff first."

"Is that so? Hmm..." The kid scanned me this time. I felt my adam's apple bob up and down. "Why don't you wait for my mom inside then..." He paused with a slight grin making me anxious, "...Since you're already dressed?"

Shit. He knows. This kid...

He's smarter than what he seems to be!

I followed him in front of their house. As he opened the door, I instictively scanned the area. It was almost the same as it was before.

"It's still the same..." I blurted out in a whispher. I taught I said it to myself.

"Have you been in here Mr. Kim?" Daeseong asks.

Me and my mouth!

What should I say to the kid? I don't even know if he knows about me and his mother's past relationship.

I have to thread my words carefully with this boy.

"Haha."

That was the most anxious laugh I had in my life.

Let's just ignore his question and move on to another topic.

"Ah, right! Where's your mother Daeseong? Is she still in her room?" Nice dodge!

The boy giggled and it made my heart pound, afraid of what he's going to say next.

"Eomma? She's still in the market to buy some groceries and uhmm... Why Mr. Kim, are you scared of me?"

I can't control my facial reaction anymore. My eyes grew wider from what he just said.

He went over to their table and poured in some water.

Remember Seokjin, you're the adult here.

"W-why should I be scared?"

He took a big gulp of water before giving me a glance.

"Oh... Because I know you dated my mom before."

"D-did she tell you that?" my voice cracked all of a sudden.

The kid shook his head, "I just found out by accident."

"Are you upset about it?" The little boy looked like he was taken aback by my question. It took him a few seconds before giving an answer while folding his arms.

"Not really. But I want to know your intention. Do you still like my mom?" The little boy looked at me with his doe-like, brown eyes.

Same as Jiu's.

"Truthfully... I don't know. It's been such a long time since I last saw her."

It was an honest answer. I have no idea if I still carry the same feelings I had then.

"I trust you." The kid smiled and as if on cue, Jiu opened the door. She was carrying two full bags of groceries.

I instinctively helped her carry the heavy bags.

"It's okay Seokjin." She says, refusing to release her hold on the bags.

"Let me, please." I gave her a little wink. She finally let go of the bags and finally straighten her back.

"Eomma, I let Mr. Kim in because he was waiting outside." Daeseong gave his mother a hug. "Did you do well on the deliveries mom?" Jiu quickly tried to hush Daeseong but she was too late. I already heard it.

"Deliveries?" I asked.

Jiu looked nervous as she held me by my arm. She asked Daeseong to change his clothes and he happily obliged.

"Yeah. You know, raising a kid is financially hard..." Jiu said while avoiding my gaze.

I can tell she was embarrassed but I know Jiu... She'll do anything if it meant protecting someone she loves.

"You can let me know if you need my help. I'm still your friend Jiu."

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