enough. woosan (wooyoung pov)

24: he needed it.

It is a long ahh chapter and also has a timeline stamp. It's almost a year since they divorced each other and six months since Wooyoung started his new life ! He's 26 here, while San is 27. 

-

The ride home whispered its narrative, an unspoken tension lingering between Wooyoung and the shadows of the recent encounter with San. Words held back, the air thick with unsaid sentiments, he yearned to shield the day from the intrusion of discussion. Home welcomed him with Mrs. Jang's mysterious directive, inviting him to the unknown.

As soon as he stepped into the night air, a lively group emerged from the shadows, exclaiming, "Happy Birthday!"

Startled, Wooyoung jumped, only to break into a broad smile, recognizing his childhood companions—Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Mingi, and Yunho, accompanied by Younghoon and his other friends.

"BIRTHDAY PARTY PART TWO!" Kevin shouted, releasing a burst of confetti from a popper. A flood of relief washed over Wooyoung. His friends, his dear ones, had orchestrated this surprise. It had been too long since he last saw Hongjoong, who had relocated from Seoul.

"I've missed you. Thank you for being here," Wooyoung expressed, his voice carrying a blend of emotions—relief, gratitude, and a hint of guilt. Embracing his best friend, Joong, he conveyed his appreciation. Despite his abrupt and unexplained departure from their lives, he was grateful for understanding friends like Joong.

Hongjoong reciprocated the tight hug, saying, "I've missed you too, Wooyoung."

"We all did," Mingi added, his typically playful demeanor giving way to a rare note of sincerity. Seonghwa, the emotional one, initiated a group hug, pulling everyone in. Meanwhile, Yunho presented a small wrapped box to Wooyoung. "Happy Birthday, Wooyoung."

As Wooyoung carefully unwrapped the gift, a wave of gratitude enveloped him. His friends' thoughtfulness touched his heart. He was thankful for having such good friends, even when he felt undeserving. Their presence, love, and support were like sunshine breaking through the gloomiest days.

Inside the small box was a finely crafted silver bracelet, modern and sleek, with a single charm—a small, intricately carved anchor. The anchor symbolized their childhood, playing pirates with Hongjoong as the captain and Wooyoung as his trusted first mate. It was precious, and Wooyoung pledged to treasure it as much as his friendship with Hongjoong.

Blinking back tears, Wooyoung took a deep breath and managed a watery smile. "Thank you," he said, his focus on the charm. His voice, soft but laden with emotion, carried a depth that resonated.

His eyes shifted from the charm to his friends, meeting each gaze. "I love you, Joong," he whispered, gaze then encompassing the rest of his friends. "And I'm so thankful for everyone here. This birthday will be memorable."

Kevin let out an audible 'aww,' patting Wooyoung on the back.

Mingi interjected, his voice a blend of joy and camaraderie, "It's too early for tears, Wooyoung."

"Let's Party!" Yunho exclaimed, seizing Wooyoung with an infectious enthusiasm that carried him towards the door. Wooyoung ejected an involuntary yelp, stumbling as he was playfully ushered into the night. His mom's voice, a mix of caution and warmth, trailed after them, "Don't have too much fun!"

"Where are we headed?" Wooyoung inquired, confusion etching his features like a puzzle waiting to be solved.

"It's a mystery," New responded, guiding him into a van with secrets in its every creak and rustle. "Whose van is this?"