our crossed paths | jww.

eight.

The café was a quaint little spot tucked away from the bustling streets, its warm lighting and cozy atmosphere offering a sense of privacy that Wonwoo appreciated.

He had chosen this place with care, knowing how difficult it could be to find a quiet corner away from prying eyes.

Ahrin sat beside him, her small hands eagerly clutching a toy, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"Daddy, when is Dr. Jiwoo coming?" she asked, her voice full of excitement.

"Soon, sweetheart. She'll be here soon," Wonwoo replied, offering her a reassuring smile, though he couldn't help but glance at his phone.

Just then, his phone buzzed with a new message. He opened it and saw a text from Jiwoo.

Jiwoo: I'm so sorry, Wonwoo. A sudden case came up at the hospital, and I'm stuck here. I don't think I'll make it on time. I'm really sorry.

Wonwoo's heart sank slightly. He had been looking forward to this meeting, not just for himself but also for Ahrin, who had been excited to see Jiwoo again.

But he knew better than to let disappointment show. Jiwoo was a doctor, after all—her work was unpredictable, and he understood that.

He took a deep breath and turned to Ahrin, who was still looking at him with expectant eyes. "Sweetie, Dr. Jiwoo got really busy at work, so she might not be able to come today."

Ahrin's face fell, her lower lip jutting out in a pout. "But I wanted to see her..."

"I know, I know," Wonwoo said softly, pulling her into a gentle hug. "Maybe we can see her another time, okay? How about we get you some ice cream?"

Just as he was about to stand up and take Ahrin to the counter, the door to the café opened, and in walked Jiwoo, still in her work scrubs, looking slightly disheveled but with a determined expression on her face.

Wonwoo blinked in surprise as she made her way over to their table, a hint of apology in her eyes. "Sorry I'm late," she said, a little out of breath. "The case took longer than I expected, but I didn't want to cancel on you two."

Ahrin's face lit up as soon as she saw Jiwoo. "Dr. Jiwoo!"

Jiwoo smiled warmly and knelt beside Ahrin, pulling out a small bag from her side. "I brought something for you, Ahrin. Since I made you wait, how about we play with these?" She revealed a set of coloring books and stickers, which immediately captured Ahrin's attention.

"Yay! Stickers!" Ahrin exclaimed, her earlier disappointment forgotten.

Wonwoo watched the scene unfold, a wave of relief washing over him. "You didn't have to come if you were that busy," he said, though he was genuinely glad she had.

Jiwoo stood and sat down across from Wonwoo, smiling at him. "I didn't want to break my promise. Besides, my day is finally over, and I thought spending some time with you both would be a nice way to unwind."

They settled into a comfortable rhythm, with Ahrin engrossed in her new coloring books while Jiwoo and Wonwoo exchanged light conversation.

Jiwoo asked about Ahrin's health, checking in on how she had been since the hospital visit, and they chatted about the little things—how Ahrin was adapting to kindergarten, how Wonwoo was juggling his busy schedule.

Jiwoo was careful not to pry into his work as an actor, focusing more on Ahrin and their shared experiences. But Wonwoo noticed her subtle restraint and decided to bridge the gap.

"You know," he began, his tone thoughtful, "you don't have to tiptoe around my work life. You're not a stranger, Jiwoo. I'd like for us to really be friends."