In Another's Skin

Sculpted In Embered Emotions.

Chapter 43: (Aaira's pov)

I was on the floor, playing with Aimin, who was engrossed in building a small tower with his blocks. Annabelle, lay curled up in a sunbeam, her gentle purring a soothing background to the quiet evening. Aimin looked up from his blocks, his small face filled with concern.

Aimin: Mum?

He asked softly. I met his gaze, trying to keep my smile steady.

Aaira: Yes, baby?

I replied, my voice as gentle as I could manage. He tilted his head slightly, his innocent eyes searching mine.

Aimin: You sad?

He asked, his little brow furrowed with worry. I shook my head slowly, trying to dispel the truth of my feelings. Aimin, sensing my hesitation, crawled over to me and wrapped his tiny arms around me in a hug.

Aimin: Get well soon.

He murmured, his voice a soft whisper against my ear.

Aimin: Dadda say Mum sick.

His words, though simple, were filled with a sincere wish for my recovery. I smiled at him, my heart swelling with affection and gratitude. I nodded, unable to find the words to fully express how much his gesture meant to me.

I hugged him back, holding him close for a moment longer, letting his small frame provide me with the solace I needed. As I pulled away, Aimin's smile was calm to my soul.

Aimin: I not worry you more.

I smiled at him, his voice sounded so small as if he was guilty, that he made me worry about himself.

Aaira: You don't have to do that, I love to worry about my baby.

There was a sudden smile on his lips, as he blushed deeply, his cheeks turning a shade of pink that was almost the same as his blocks. His fingers began to fidget nervously with the edge of his shirt, twisting and turning in a manner.

Aimin then reached out carefully and touched my forehead with the tips of his tiny fingers. His touch was soft, almost hesitant, but filled with an earnestness that was impossible to ignore. His eyes widened in surprise, and he quickly withdrew his hand, looking at me with concern and confusion.

Aimin: Hot, hot!

He said, his voice trembling slightly. I couldn't help but laugh softly at his innocent reaction, the sound of my laughter mixing with the purring of Annabelle in the sunbeam. I reached out and gently touched his warm cheeks, the heat from his tiny hands still lingering on my skin.

Aaira: Is it hot, sweetheart?

I asked, still smiling at his adorable display of concern. Aimin nodded vigorously, his blush deepening. His eyes were wide with a blend of worry and determination, as if he was trying to solve a great mystery.

Aimin: Mum, hot.

He repeated, clearly distressed about the heat he had felt. I leaned in closer, wrapping my arms around him once more and kissing his forehead softly.

Aaira: It's okay, baby. I'm fine. I think you just need to get used to feeling things. Your hands were a bit warm, that's all.

Aimin looked up at me, I continued to hold him, my heart full of love for this little boy who, despite his tender age, seemed to have an innate ability to care deeply for those around him.

The door to the room creaked open, and Aimin's head snapped towards the sound. He wriggled out of my embrace and dashed across the room with a burst of energy, his small feet pattering on the floor. Standing in the doorway was Jungkook, holding a tray of food. He glanced at Aimin.