"You're Late."

Chapter 5: What're your hobbies?

5.1: Living In The Shadows

The room was filled with the sounds of cutlery scraping against plates and the occasional clearing of throats.

I released a soft sigh, stealing a glance at Jung-woo for the second time. Was this truly how we would choose to spend our precious moments together? Just then, he broke the silence.

His voice cut through the quiet ambiance of the room, breaking the monotony. "Minji, we need to talk," he said, his expression serious. I felt a knot tighten in my stomach as I prepared for the conversation that loomed ahead.

"What's on your mind?" I inquire, noticing him setting down his utensils with a sigh. He looks at me and reveals, "I'm getting a promotion." Excitement fills me, and I start, "That's-" but pause as I catch the weight in his expression. "Is that not good news?" I question, and he shakes his head. "It's fantastic, but it means I'll have less time for us," he explains. I nod, taking in his words. Strangely, a sense of relief washes over me.

"What's the promotion?" I inquire, trying to grasp the situation. Jung-woo hesitates before answering, "It's the regional manager position. It comes with a lot more responsibilities, and I'll be traveling frequently." My initial excitement wavers as the reality of the situation sinks in. I nod, understanding the trade-off that comes with career advancement.

"But, Minji," he continues, his eyes searching mine, "I don't want this to affect us. I know it means less time together, but it's an opportunity I can't pass up." His sincerity pulls at my heart, and I offer a small smile. "I get it, Jung-woo. Your career is important, and I wouldn't want you to hold back." He reaches across the table, taking my hand. "I appreciate your understanding. We'll make it work, okay?" I squeeze his hand in return, determined to support him in this new chapter of his career.

The dinnerware clinks softly as he places the plates in the sink. Turning to find me leaning against the counter, he delivers the news, "I have to go back tomorrow morning. I'll be gone by the time you wake up." I listen intently, absorbing his words. He continues, "I don't know when I'll be back, when I'll see you again." I let out a soft sigh. Closing the distance, he cages me between his hands, which rest on the counter. "So, how about we make this night count?" he suggests, his eyes inviting a shared understanding.

He leans in, his eyes expressing a blend of longing and affection. "Let's make the most of tonight," he suggests, subtly hinting at the intimacy we could share. However, as he tentatively proposes the idea of making love, I hesitate, awkwardly deflecting the suggestion. A moment of tension hangs in the air as we navigate the delicate balance between closeness and the reality of his imminent departure.

I muster a small smile, a mix of emotions playing on my face. "Jung-woo, I appreciate the sentiment, but..." I trail off, searching for the right words. "I want our last moments together to be memorable, but I'm not sure this is the way."

He looks at me, understanding flickering in his eyes. "You're right," he says, a gentle smile replacing the earlier suggestion. "Let's make it count in a way that feels right for both of us."

I can't shake off the guilt settling within me. In an ideal situation, I wouldn't decline the opportunity to be intimate with my husband—someone handsome, kind, and understanding, especially considering our limited time together. However, something holds me back, and that something is Haerin.

He kisses my cheek and heads to do the dishes. I slip away, preparing for bed. Rubbing my face in frustration, I grapple with the reality that I've been intimate with Haerin. She took my innocence, and an unsettling feeling suggests she'll continue to do so—and somehow, I'll let her.