Bride.exe | JAYHOON [Hiatus]

2.1: LOVE IS A VIRTUE

༻♡⃛༺

The brick road stretched beneath their feet, winding through the grassy expanse of the small hill. For her, it was the favorite shortcut from school to home. A self-made melody escaped her lips, a tune that resonated in the ears of the child trailing her. His tiny feet struggled to keep pace with her longer strides, every step for her equating to a double effort for him.

He stumbled over the uneven bricks, desperately trying to match her speed. The road, paved a few years ago after the forest was cleared, boasted shiny and clean bricks that glistened in the sunlight filtering through the leaves.

"Noona, wait up!"

The child's breaths were ragged, each word accompanied by a pant. He clutched his bag, navigating small cracks in the road with nimble jumps. Yet, she paid no heed, her long hair billowing in the wind as she continued her journey.

The boy, bundled in his winter clothes despite the advancing spring, felt the heat building up. A droplet of sweat traced down his face, falling onto a gleaming brick. He stopped, hands on his knees, gasping for air.

"Noona, I can't walk anymore!"

Finally, she turned, concern etched across her face. The click-clack of her heels echoed as she rushed back to him.

"Oh my! I'm so sorry, I didn't hear you. Are you alright?"

Her eyes met his as she bent down, brushing a few strands of hair from his forehead. The child marveled at her height, their faces so alike yet subtly different. A meek smile played on her lips, her eyes momentarily flashing.

"My leg hurts," he mumbled.

"Does it? I'm so sorry, sweetie. Come, I'll carry you home," she offered, her grin reassuring.

Giggles erupted from the boy as he wrapped his arms around her neck. She hoisted him onto her back, continuing their journey. The wind tousled their hair, and cherry blossom petals danced in the air. The child occupied himself by collecting the delicate blooms from his sister's hair.

"How do you love someone?" The sudden question caught her off guard. Wide-eyed, she turned to look at him and burst into giggles, leaving the boy puzzled by her response.

"Noona, how do you love someone?" Sunghoon asked again, his innocent eyes searching for answers in the depths of her gaze.

His sister chuckled softly, her laughter harmonizing with the rustling leaves overhead. "Well, loving someone is a beautiful feeling, Sunghoon. It's when you care about them deeply, and you want to make them happy. It's like having a special place in your heart just for them."

Sunghoon furrowed his brow, processing her words. "Is it like when Jiho loves Sooyeon in my class?"

His sister laughed, recognizing the names of his classmates. "Yes, exactly! Jiho cares a lot about Sooyeon, and he wants to be with her. He feels happy when she's happy, and he wants to protect her."

"But Jiho gives Sooyeon his cookies. Do I have to give you cookies too, Noona?" Sunghoon asked, his voice filled with wonder.

His sister burst into laughter, the sound echoing through the tranquil surroundings. "No, silly! It's not about cookies. It's about being there for someone, supporting them, and showing them that you care in your own special way."

Sunghoon pondered this for a moment before leaning closer to his sister's ear. "I love you, Noona."

Her heart warmed at his words, and she hugged him tighter. "I love you too, Sunghoon. You're my favorite little brother."