The Wedding Crashers ⚊ Park Jay [ Sequel ]

✗ twenty six ✗

⚊ chapter twenty six

The familiar scent of home hit me the moment we walked through the door, mingling with the faint smell of lavender from the fresh bouquet in the hallway.

I had just been discharged from the hospital, still feeling the effects of my recent ordeal, but the excitement bubbling up inside me as Jay helped me into the living room made me momentarily forget the discomfort.

I glanced around, expecting the usual quiet of our home, but was met with a sight that took my breath away. The living room was transformed into a vibrant celebration space. Streamers of pastel colors hung from the ceiling, and confetti was strewn across the floor.

A "Welcome Home, Mommy Eunjoo!" banner stretched across the wall, its letters crafted with painstaking care.

As I entered, the room erupted into cheers and applause.

"Surprise!" Seeun, Sumin, Sieun, and J shouted in unison. Their excitement was palpable, each of them beaming as they welcomed me home.

"Mommy Eunjoo!" they chorused playfully, their enthusiasm infectious.

They rushed to hug me, their joy evident in their bright smiles. I felt tears welling up as their warmth and affection wrapped around me. The stress and worry of the past weeks seemed to melt away, replaced by this overwhelming sense of love and belonging.

Yoon and Isa, who had been with me during the turbulent times in Hawaii, guided the enthusiastic group towards me, their faces showing relief and happiness.

Yoon's eyes were particularly kind, and Isa's smile was both comforting and encouraging.

Jay stood slightly behind me, observing the scene with a gentle smile. His presence, though quiet, was a constant reminder of the strength and support he had given me.

I glanced at him, noticing a subtle shift in his expression.

"I need to take care of something," Jay said softly, his voice a mere whisper amidst the celebration. He looked at me with a blend of affection and determination. "I'll be back soon. Enjoy the party."

Before I could respond, he slipped out of the room, leaving me with my friends and the warmth of the surprise they had prepared.

I watched him go, feeling a pang of curiosity and concern about what he was up to but quickly turning my attention back to the joyous gathering.

As the noise of celebration swirled around me, I caught Seeun tugging on my sleeve, eyes wide with excitement. "Eunjoo, we missed you so much! We wanted to make sure you felt loved and welcomed back."

Sumin handed me a small gift wrapped in colorful paper. "We all chipped in for this. It's just a little something to show how much we care."

I took the gift with trembling hands, my emotions running high. Sieun, with her usual cheerful demeanor, twirled around with a camera, trying to capture every moment. J was busy directing everyone to get into position for a group photo, making sure to include Jay in the shot before he left.

In the midst of all this, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. Despite everything, I was surrounded by people who cared deeply for me, who had come together to make this homecoming special.

As I looked around at the faces of my friends, I felt a renewed sense of hope. The love and support I was receiving were reminders of the strength we all had, and the future Jay and I were building together.

With a deep breath, I allowed myself to fully embrace the moment, the celebration, and the reassurance that even after everything, there was a path forward filled with hope and love.