Rivalry Rewritten: Enmity to Intimacy ( Volume: 2)

Thirty Three

Wooyoung paced around his apartment, phone pressed to his ear, his voice a mixture of frustration and worry. "I haven't seen San in a week, Mingi. He went on that business trip to Italy, leaving Jiwoo with me. I'm starting to get really worried. Ever since that fight with his father, he's been so distant. I don't know what's going on with him."

Mingi's voice crackled through the phone, full of concern. "I can understand why you're worried, Wooyoung. That argument must have really shaken him up. But you have to give him some time. San has a lot on his plate right now."

"I know, but it doesn't make it any easier," Wooyoung replied, sighing deeply. He glanced over at Jiwoo, who was playing with her toys on the living room floor. "I just want him to know that I'm here for him, and Jiwoo too. It's hard seeing him like this, so shut off from everyone."

"San is tough, but even the toughest people need a break sometimes," Mingi said, his voice soothing. "He's probably trying to sort out his thoughts. Maybe this trip will give him the clarity he needs."

Wooyoung leaned against the kitchen counter, rubbing his temples. "I hope you're right. But I can't help feeling responsible for all of this. Our relationship... it complicates everything. And now with Jiwoo, I wonder if I'm enough for her, you know?"

Mingi chuckled lightly. "You're doing great, Wooyoung. Jiwoo loves you, and you're taking good care of her. You're stepping up in a big way. San knows that too, and he'll come around. Just give him some space."

"I just miss him," Wooyoung admitted, his voice cracking slightly. "I miss having him around, seeing him smile. And I hate that he's dealing with all this stress alone."

"I get it, Wooyoung. But remember, you're not alone either. You've got us, your friends. We'll help you through this. And when San comes back, you guys can talk things out."

"Thanks, Mingi," Wooyoung said, a small smile forming on his lips. "I appreciate it. I just needed to get this off my chest."

"Anytime, buddy," Mingi replied. "And hey, why don't you take Jiwoo out for a little while? A walk in the park or something. It might help clear your mind too."

"Yeah, maybe I'll do that," Wooyoung said, glancing over at Jiwoo, who was now looking up at him with her big, curious eyes. "Thanks again, Mingi. Talk to you later."

"Take care, Wooyoung. Hang in there," Mingi said before hanging up.

Wooyoung put down his phone and took a deep breath. He walked over to Jiwoo, scooping her up into his arms. "How about we go for a little walk, huh?" he said, trying to muster some enthusiasm. Jiwoo giggled and clapped her hands, making Wooyoung's heart lighten just a bit.

As they stepped outside into the crisp air, Wooyoung couldn't shake the feeling of worry gnawing at him, but he knew he had to stay strong—for Jiwoo, for San, and for himself.

Sitting on a park bench with Jiwoo happily babbling in his lap, Wooyoung dialed San’s assistant, hoping to get some information that would ease his worries.

"Hello, this is Jin. How can I help you?" San's assistant answered, his tone professional.

"Hi Jin, it's Wooyoung. I was wondering if you could give me some details about San's trip to Italy. How long is it supposed to last, and what's the purpose?" Wooyoung asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

There was a brief pause on the other end. "Wooyoung, the trip was initially planned for three days. It was for a series of important meetings with our partners in Italy. But honestly, I have no idea when he will be returning. San extended his stay indefinitely, saying he needed more time for personal matters."