SKYFALL ↠ Haechan ✔

XXXIII

CHAPTER XXXIII :
A Mother's Blessing

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Areum's mother invited them to stay at their home in the UK during their visit.

"It's not much but it's a home" Areum's mom said "And that's all that matters" Areum reassured her with a smile.

As they settled into their temporary home, Areum's mother turned to her with a mix of concern and curiosity.

"Areum, how is your father? Is he still involved in... the things he used to do?" She asked gently.

Areum took a deep breath, her heart heavy with the weight of her father's past and present "He is, but things have changed. It's a long story" She replied, her voice tinged with sadness.

"He's been in the hospital for quite some time now. Basically my marriage was planned by him and Haechan's dad but Appa had other plans and betrayed Haechan's dad" She trailed off.

"Haechan.. shot him so that's why he's still in the hospital now. Me and Haechan have taken over Song Shadows too, and we're trying to lead it in a different direction now"

Her mother's eyes widened in shock and concern. "Oh, Areum, you're living a dangerous life sweetheart" She whispered, reaching out to grasp her hand.

"I hoped and prayed everyday that he would find a way out of that life so you wouldn't grow up into it" She continued.

Areum squeezed her mother's hand reassuringly. "We're still in the life, Eomma, but Haechan and I are working hard to change how we operate. We're focusing on making our activities more controlled and less violent. It's about bringing a sense of order and responsibility to what we do"

Areum noticed her mom's eyes still filled with concern so she continued "Don't worry, Eomma. I have Haechan to protect me! He's a great guy, I promise. And his family are super welcoming too" Areum smiled, convincing her mom.

"Song Shadows is what I grew up with, Eomma.. and I love Haechan too much that I don't think I'm able to leave him and all of this behind. It's the only family I've ever known since I was a kid. I'm so sorry" Areum continued, carving a small smile.

Her mother nodded, her expression filled with an understanding expression "I'm sorry for leaving you behind.. but I believe in you, Areum. You just stay safe, alright? If ever the both of you plan to leave, my house is always open for you both"

"Thank you for understanding" Areum nodded with gratitude and hugged her mom.

As they sat together, mother and daughter, surrounded by the warmth of family and the promise of a new beginning, Areum felt a sense of hope and determination wash over her.

-

-A Week Later-

It had been a week of laughter, tears, and heartfelt conversations, but now it was time for Haechan and Areum to leave. Standing in the cozy living room of her mother's home, Areum felt a rush of sadness.

Areum hugged her mother tightly "It has been a great week staying with you, Eomma. I've missed this more than I can say"

Her mother held her close, tears glistening in her eyes "I've missed you too, Areum. Promise me we'll do this again soon. Don't let so much time pass before your next visit"

"I promise" Areum whispered, pulling back to look into her mother's eyes "This is just the beginning. We have so much to catch up on, so many new memories to make"

Haechan stepped forward, shaking her stepfather's hand firmly "Thank you John, for welcoming us into your home. It means a lot to Areum and me"

Her stepfather smiled warmly "You're family now, Haechan. You're always welcome here"

Areum knelt down to her little sister, who looked up at her with wide, admiring eyes "I'll miss you, Ava. Be good and take care of Mom and Dad for me, okay?"

The young girl nodded earnestly, wrapping her arms around Areum's neck "I will. I promise"

"I promise i'll bring you to Korea soon alright" Areum whispered to Ava's ears and Ava immediately nodded in excitement.

Before they left her mom's house, Areum's mother leaned in with a playful smile and asked "So, when are you two going to give me some grandkids?"

Areum and Haechan exchanged a knowing glance, both smiling "Soon, Eomma" Areum replied "When the time is right"

Her mom chuckled softly and then took Areum's hands in hers, looking into her eyes with a blend of love and seriousness "Sweetheart, I know how important your work is to you, but always remember to prioritize your marriage and family. They're what truly matter in the long run. Don't let the demands of your job overshadow the beautiful moments you'll share with your husband and, eventually, your children"

Areum nodded, feeling the warmth and wisdom in her mother's words "Thanks, Eomma. We'll keep that in mind"

Haechan, standing beside Areum, added "We've been through so much together, and I know how important it is to cherish our time together. Your daughter means a lot to me and i'll always be there for her no matter what" Haechan gave her a warm smile.

Her mom's eyes softened, and she reached out to gently squeeze Haechan's hand "I'm glad to hear that. Marriage is a journey, and it's important to support each other every step of the way"

Areum's mom gave them each a warm hug "You two have a special bond. Nurture it, protect it, and always make time for each other. Work will always be there, but these precious moments with your loved ones are irreplaceable"

As Haechan and Areum walked to the car, her mother called out one last time "You both take care and remember, our home is always open to you!"

Areum turned, giving one final wave, her heart full "We will. Goodbye, Eomma! We'll see you soon!"

With that, they got into the car and the driver drove away.

"Are you happy?" Haechan asked as he asked for Areum's hands and squeezed them lightly.

"Yeah" She nodded. Just as she was about to speak, her phone rang and she immediately picked it up.

"Areum.." Yoona started with a shaking voice.

"Unnie, are you okay? What happened?!" Areum asked, worried at her friend.

"Your dad.. he's in a critical condition"

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Guys, 2 more chapters after this :(

Love,
Hyucgf.