CHAPTER 36 - A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER

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Haeeun sank into the soft couch of the Na family's living room, feeling the holiday warmth wrap around her like a favorite sweater. The smell of bulgogi and kimchi jjigae filled the air, and she couldn't help but smile at the sight of the twinkling Christmas tree in the corner.

Donghyuck and Jaemin were already at the table, playfully arguing over the last piece of galbi. Their laughter filled the room, and Haeeun felt her heart swell. This was the Christmas she had always wanted—laughter, love, and the comforting presence of family.


"Dinner's ready!" Donghyuck's mother called out, her cheerful voice breaking through the chatter.


The table was a feast of colorful dishes, with bibimbap, tteokbokki, and various side dishes that made everyone's mouths water. They all gathered around, excited and hungry. Each bite tasted like home, rich with the flavors of tradition and care.

After dinner, they moved to the living room, where the real fun began. The tree sparkled with lights, and gifts piled beneath it looked like little surprises waiting to be opened.


"Alright, who's ready to see what Santa brought?" Jaemin's father said with a wink, his eyes shining.


Haeeun felt a thrill of anticipation as gifts were passed around. Donghyuck tore into a package, revealing a pair of goofy reindeer socks.


"Just what I needed!" he laughed, and Jaemin couldn't resist teasing him about his taste.


Once all the gifts were unwrapped, Haeeun's gaze fell on her newly found family, sitting together with proud smiles. Just last week, they had given her the best surprise of all.


Flashback: A Week Ago

Haeeun, Donghyuck, and Jaemin had been anxiously waiting for news about a new apartment. They'd found a spacious unit that felt perfect for their little family. The day after they learned they got it, Gyeol showed up with a huge smile.


"I have a surprise for you guys," he said, his excitement bubbling over. They all crowded around, wondering what it could be.

He pulled out the keys and handed them over. "The unit's yours. It's already paid in full, and I got your stocks covered for the first month. Merry Christmas!"


The room fell silent, disbelief washing over them.


"Dad, you didn't have to do that..." Haeeun started, tears pricking her eyes.

"I wanted you to have a place to call home," he replied, his voice warm.


Donghyuck and Jaemin cheered, pulling her into a hug, their laughter filling the small room. The apartment felt like a new chapter, one they would share together.



Present Day

As the evening continued, the parents turned to the couple, eager to hear about their new home.


"How's decorating going?" Jaemin's mother asked, eyes bright with interest.

"We're just getting started," Haeeun admitted, glancing at Jaemin, who had plans scribbled on his phone. "Still figuring out how to make it cozy."

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