❝ Stardust & Heartstrings ❞ YEONBIN FF

Chapter 4 : When Memories Collide

Yeonjun followed the medical staff as they carefully transferred his halmeoni to her room, ensuring she was settled comfortably. Afterward, he made his way to the main doctor's office to finalize the paperwork.

Upon arrival, he was greeted by Dr. Gye Jae-hwan, the head of geriatric care, who rose from his seat and bowed slightly. "Annyeonghaseyo, Yeonjun-ssi. Please, have a seat." His warm smile and gentle demeanor immediately put Yeonjun at ease.

Yeonjun returned the bow, his hands clasped together in respect. "Annyeonghaseyo, Dr. Gye. My halmeoni is new to the hospital, so I hope you'll take extra care of her." He looked at Dr. Gye with pleading eyes, hoping for reassurance.

Dr. Gye nodded graciously, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Don't worry, Yeonjun-ssi. We'll do our utmost to ensure your halmeoni receives the best possible care. Dr. Hong Ji-hyun, our specialist in dementia, will be overseeing her treatment."

Dr. Hong entered the room, her gentle smile and soft features a balm to Yeonjun's frazzled nerves. She greeted him with a bow, her hands folded in respect. "Annyeonghaseyo, Yeonjun-ssi. I'll be working closely with Dr. Gye to ensure your halmeoni receives the most effective treatment."

Yeonjun bowed again, his gratitude evident. "Gamsahamnida, Dr. Hong. I appreciate your expertise and care."

As Yeonjun signed the papers, Dr. Gye explained the treatment plan in detail, using simple terms to ensure Yeonjun understood. Dr. Hong added, "We'll monitor your halmeoni's condition closely and adjust the treatment as needed. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns."

With the papers signed, Yeonjun thanked the doctors again,"Gamsahamnida, seonsaengnim." Dr. Gye and Dr. Hong bowed in unison, their faces filled with kindness. "Take care, Yeonjun-ssi." Yeonjun returned the bow, feeling reassured that his halmeoni was in capable hands.

As soon as Yeonjun left the room, he could sense the weight of curious gazes upon him. He knew that his outfit, carefully curated to express his personal style, would likely draw attention in a more conservative city like Pohang.

The residents of Pohang, accustomed to a more traditional and modest way of dressing, couldn't help but stare at Yeonjun's bold fashion choices. His Rick Owens jacket, with its geometric print and sleek design, stood out starkly amidst the more subdued surroundings.

The elderly women in the common room whispered to each other, their eyes fixed on Yeonjun's black tank top and shorts, which they deemed too revealing. The men, too, cast curious glances, their faces a mix of confusion and disapproval.

Yeonjun, however, didn't let the stares faze him. He had grown accustomed to such reactions in Seoul, where fashion was a form of self-expression. He knew that his style might not conform to the norms of Pohang, but he refused to compromise his individuality.

As he walked through the care center, Yeonjun felt a sense of pride and confidence in his outfit. He knew that his grandmother, Yoon Hee, would appreciate his boldness and creativity.

The staff, too, seemed taken aback by Yeonjun's fashion sense. They exchanged whispered comments and giggles, their eyes darting towards him as he passed by. Yeonjun smiled to himself, knowing that he was making a statement in this conservative city.

As Yeonjun walked down the hallway, he overheard two elderly women whispering to each other. They were glancing in his direction, their eyes fixed on his legs.

"Look at that young man's pants," one of them said, her voice barely above a whisper. "You can see his thighs so clearly. It's like he's not wearing anything underneath."

The other woman nodded in agreement, her eyes wide with disapproval. "I know, it's so inappropriate. In our day, we would never have dared to dress like that."