One day in Seoul 🇰🇷

🇰🇷: 28

As the days passed, things between Francis and me settled into a comfortable rhythm. I took a week off from the hospital to take care of David, and for the past two days, Francis never left my side. His constant presence gave me a sense of comfort I hadn't expected. Every time I felt the weight of everything-the guilt, the exhaustion-he was there, quietly making sure I didn't collapse under it.

When the doctor finally told us that David could go home, it felt like a heavy burden had been lifted from my chest. We went through the discharge process-handling the billing, medications, and final instructions. Dad stayed behind with David while Francis and I headed downstairs to settle the bill.

At the cashier, Francis, as usual, insisted on paying for everything.

"Kaya ko naman to, Francis. Ako na ang magbabayad," I said firmly, trying to stop him.

He just shook his head, a stubborn grin on his face. "No, let me handle this. I've been here half of the time too."

"Pero David is my brother, so it's my responsibility," I countered, crossing my arms. I knew he was trying to help, but I didn't want him to feel like he needed to.

We went back and forth, neither one of us backing down.

"Francis, hindi mo kailangan bayaran lahat. I can manage this."

"But I want to help," he said, looking at me with those sincere eyes that always seemed to make me soften, though I refused to show it.

Our small argument continued, light but with an edge of seriousness. It wasn't about the money; it was about control, about me wanting to handle things on my own for once, and him wanting to ease my burdens.

After a few minutes, we both started laughing.

"Okay, hati na lang tayo," he suggested with a grin.

I sighed in defeat, smiling back. "Fine. Hati tayo."

As we split the bill, I realized how easy things had become between us. There was no awkwardness, no hesitation. It felt natural, and I couldn't help but think how different things were now compared to the first time we met again.

Once everything was settled, we went back upstairs to help David. We called for a wheelchair and gently helped him into it. Dad couldn't stop thanking Francis for everything. Every chance he got, he expressed his gratitude. And I knew why. Francis had been there when neither Dad nor I could be-when we needed to rest, he stayed by David's side without complaint.

"Maraming salamat talaga, Francis," Dad said, his voice thick with emotion.

Francis just smiled and shook his head. "Walang anuman po, Sir. I'm happy to help."

After that, we all made our way to the parking lot where two cars were waiting-mine and Francis'. He offered to drive us home, and though I wanted to argue, I didn't. I was tired, and honestly, it felt nice not to have to handle everything on my own.

But just as we were about to leave, Daniel came rushing toward us. I could sense the tension immediately from the way his eyes darted toward Francis.

"Francis, kailangan natin mag-usap," Daniel said, his voice low and urgent. They stepped a bit farther away, just out of earshot.

I stood there, frowning as I watched them, wondering what was going on. Whatever they were talking about, it was serious. Francis' face shifted from calm to concerned.

After a few moments, Francis walked back to me, his expression apologetic.

"Katarina, I'm sorry. Something important came up. I can't drive you and your family home right now," he said, his voice filled with regret.