❝ Stardust & Heartstrings ❞ YEONBIN FF

Chapter 6 : Unexpected Encounters and Familiar Faces

Soobin waited for a nod, but Yeonjun's expression remained still. The silence grew thick with uncertainty. Yeonjun's gaze faltered, his eyes darting away, and he turned to leave, leaving Soobin standing there, arms still outstretched.

Soobin's arms fell to his sides, his hands clenched into fists as he felt a pang of rejection. He stood there, frozen, listening to the sound of the door closing behind Yeonjun. The silence that followed was deafening, leaving Soobin wondering what he had done wrong. Again.

As Soobin stood there, trying to process the awkward encounter with Yeonjun, his mind suddenly recalled the nurse's earlier message. Dr. Hong, the senior doctor from the dementia unit, had requested a meeting with him. Soobin's curiosity was piqued - what could Dr. Hong possibly want to discuss with him?

Soobin's thoughts were filled with questions as he made his way to the dementia unit. Soobin's eyes widened slightly as he took in the unexpected presence of Dr. Gye, the head of geriatric care, sitting alongside Dr. Hong in the cramped cabin. Dr. Hong gestured for Soobin to take a seat.

"Apologies for summoning you after your volunteer shift ended, Soobin," Dr. Gye said with a nod. Soobin shook his head, "It's okay, Doctor. I didn't have any plans anyway."

"I'm sure you're aware of the new high-profile patient we've admitted to room 513," Dr. Hong stated, her eyes fixed on Soobin.

"She's been transferred from our Seoul branch, and her son, Choi Ye Jun, is a major investor in that facility. We've been requested to provide her with exceptional care," Dr. Gye explained.

"We're aware that you're already making significant contributions to our hospital, and we're hesitant to ask for more, but considering your father, Choi Beom Seok, is the head of the Locality Development Committee, we were wondering if you could assist us with a special request. The patient's treatment requires us to take her to familiar locations in the area to stimulate her memory, and your help would be invaluable in facilitating this process," Doctor Hong requested.

"I've had the pleasure of knowing Yoon Hee halmeoni since childhood, and I'd be delighted to assist in any way I can. Our families were close when she lived in Pohang, and we're actually neighbors, so I'm more than happy to help," Soobin said with a smile.

A warm smile spread across Dr. Hong's face, and Dr. Gye nodded in appreciation. "Thank you, Soobin. We're grateful for your willingness to help. Yoon Hee ssi's case is quite unique, and your personal connection to her could make a significant difference in her treatment. We'll discuss the details of the treatment plan and how you can assist us further," Dr. Hong explained, her eyes sparkling with optimism.

Just as Soobin was about to exit the room, Dr. Gye added, "Soobin, one more thing - we'd like you to spend time with Yoon Hee ssi during your volunteering hours, if possible. Your presence could be beneficial for her treatment."

A hint of a smile played on Soobin's lips as he agreed, "Of course, Doctor. I'll make sure to spend time with her during my shifts." He couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement at the prospect of being close to Yeonjun, who would likely be visiting his grandmother frequently.

Soobin pulled up to his house and shut off the engine, he noticed a commotion coming from inside. He stepped out of the truck and began to remove his shoes, but his attention was diverted by the loud, heated voices of his parents echoing from within the house.

As Soobin entered the house, he was surprised to see Yeonjun sitting at the table, savoring a bowl of jjangmyeong with sauce smudged around his mouth and on his cheeks. Soobin's mother was trying to add more kimchi to Yeonjun's bowl, while Soobin's father searched for the air conditioner remote control, seemingly oblivious to the commotion.

Yeonjun was the first to notice Soobin's arrival, and he immediately stopped eating, hastily wiping the sauce from his mouth. Soobin's mother, caught up in the moment, hadn't seen her son enter, but Yeonjun's sudden movement drew her attention. She turned to Soobin with a warm smile and playfully slapped him on the back, saying, "Soobin-ah, why didn't you tell us that Aunt Yoon Hee was back? Your father was shocked to see Yeonjun struggling with the lock at their house and insisted he come in and eat with us."

Soobin's father asked, his voice cheerful, 'Are you folks here on vacation?' But his words were met with a somber response, as Yeonjun's face fell, his expression turning gloomy."

Soobin's voice was gentle but serious as he corrected his father, "Appa, Eomma, they're not here on vacation. Yoon Hee halmeoni is actually receiving treatment for her dementia." His parents' faces immediately fell, etched with concern and worry. His mother's expression softened as she opened her arms to Yeonjun, embracing him warmly. "It must be so tough for you," she cooed, stroking his hair in a comforting gesture.

Yeonjun's tense body softened as he soaked up the nurturing warmth of her motherly hug. Overwhelmed with emotion, Yeonjun felt tears prick at the corners of his eyes, and he quickly stood up, his voice trembling as he said, "I should get going."

Soobin's dad said, "Where will you go, Yeonjun-ah? The lock is jammed, and the house has been vacant for 10 years. It's not livable for the night. Why don't you stay with us instead? You can share Soobin's room for tonight, and tomorrow I'll arrange for someone to clean and prepare your house. You're welcome to stay with us until then."

Yeonjun smiled gratefully and said, "Thank you for the meal, but I don't want to impose on you any further. I'll just rent a room somewhere for the night."

Soobin's mom chimed in, her voice warm and persuasive, "Oh, Yeonjun-ah, don't be silly! You're not bothering us at all. Soobin practically grew up in your halmeoni's house, and she loved us like family. Let us return that kindness, even if it's just for one night. It's the least we can do for you."

Soobin broke the awkward silence, saying, "I'll go get my room ready," and headed upstairs, with Yeonjun trailing behind him, feeling a bit out of place.

***