Brother's Best friend-Nishimura Riki

[8]

Authors pov

After the brief but intense conversation with Heeseung, Haeun took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. Heeseung had been firm but not harsh, reminding her of the potential consequences and his concerns. He just wanted her to be careful, especially when it came to Riki.

Haeun nodded at her brother's words, assuring him that she understood. With a final glance at Heeseung, she turned and walked back toward Riki's car. Heeseung stayed where he was, watching her closely but not interfering.

As Haeun approached, Riki was waiting, leaning against the car with his hands in his pockets. His expression was patient, but there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes. He didn't ask what Heeseung had said, but Haeun could tell he wanted to know. She offered him a small smile, a mix of reassurance and determination.

Without a word, Riki opened the passenger door for her. "Everything okay?" he asked gently as she slid into the seat.

Haeun nodded. "Yeah, everything's fine," she replied, her voice steady. She knew that this was a step she was choosing to take, fully aware of Heeseung's warnings.

Riki got into the driver's seat, casting a quick glance at her before starting the car. "Alright then, let's go," he said, his tone light, but with an underlying seriousness that matched the moment.

As they drove off, Haeun couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—excitement for what lay ahead, and a slight unease from her conversation with Heeseung. But she pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on the road ahead, trusting that she was making the right decision.

As they drove in silence for a few minutes, Riki couldn't help but notice the tension in Haeun's posture and the way she occasionally bit her lip, lost in thought. He glanced over at her, concern evident in his eyes.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Riki asked softly, keeping his voice gentle. "You seem a little... distant."

Haeun looked at him, startled out of her thoughts. She forced a small smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine," she replied, though her voice wavered slightly. "Just thinking, that's all."

Riki kept his eyes on the road but reached over, his hand gently squeezing hers. "You know you can talk to me, right?" he said, his tone reassuring. "If something's bothering you, I want to know."

Haeun hesitated, her mind flashing back to Heeseung's words. She knew Riki meant well, and she appreciated his concern, but she didn't want to worry him or ruin their time together.

"It's just... Heeseung," she finally admitted, sighing. "He’s worried about us spending time together. He’s just being protective, but it got to me a little."

Riki nodded, understanding dawning on his face. "I get it," he said, his voice thoughtful. "Heeseung cares about you, and he's just looking out for you. I would do the same if I were in his shoes."

Haeun relaxed a little, appreciating Riki's understanding. "I know. I just wish it wasn't so complicated," she murmured, squeezing his hand back.

Riki gave her a reassuring smile. "We’ll take it slow, okay? We don’t have to rush anything. And if you ever feel uncomfortable or want to talk, I'm here."

Haeun felt a wave of relief at his words. "Thank you, Riki," she said softly, finally allowing herself to relax fully into her seat.

With a more genuine smile, she turned to look at him, feeling grateful for his patience and support. The uneasiness began to fade, replaced by a sense of comfort in knowing she wasn't facing this alone.

After about fifteen minutes of driving, the car slowed as they approached the familiar neighborhood where Haeun's parents lived. The setting sun cast long shadows over the quiet street, and the sight of her childhood home brought a mix of comfort and nerves to Haeun's heart.

Riki pulled the car to a stop in front of the house, cutting the engine. He looked over at Haeun, a soft smile on his face. "We’re here," he said quietly, sensing the shift in her mood.

Haeun nodded, her eyes fixed on the house. The lights were on inside, a welcoming glow that contrasted with the slight tension she felt in her chest. "Yeah," she replied, taking a deep breath. "Home sweet home."

Riki reached over, gently placing his hand on hers. "You ready?" he asked, his voice full of understanding.

Haeun turned to look at him, her expression a mix of emotions. "I think so," she said, managing a small smile. "It’s just... I haven't brought anyone here like this before."

Riki squeezed her hand reassuringly. "We’ll take it one step at a time," he said. "No pressure. I’m just here to support you."

Haeun appreciated his calm demeanor. It helped to ease some of the anxiety she felt about bringing him to meet her parents, especially given everything that had happened earlier with Heeseung. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice full of gratitude.

They both got out of the car, and Riki walked around to meet her on the sidewalk. Together, they made their way up the path to the front door, Riki staying close by her side. Haeun hesitated for just a moment before ringing the doorbell, her heart beating a little faster.

Within seconds, the door opened, and Haeun's mother stood there, her face lighting up with a warm smile as she saw her daughter. "Haeun, sweetheart!" she exclaimed, pulling her into a tight hug.

Haeun hugged her mother back, feeling a bit more at ease. "Hi, Mom," she said, her voice muffled against her mother's shoulder.

As they pulled back, Haeun's mother noticed Riki standing just behind her. Her smile widened as she looked at him. "And you must be Riki," she said warmly, extending her hand.

Riki smiled politely and took her hand in a gentle shake. "Yes, ma'am," he replied, his tone respectful. "It’s nice to meet you."

Haeun's mother gave him an approving nod. "Come in, both of you," she said, stepping aside to let them in. "Dinner’s almost ready."

As they entered the house, Haeun glanced at Riki, feeling a bit more reassured by the way things were going so far. She could feel the warmth and love in the air, and it made her hopeful that the evening would go smoothly.

Sorry about the corruption
But haeun's parents went home to drop her things and prepare for when she gets home