BELOVED BY THE TWINS

CHAPTER 34

"BELOVED BY THE TWINS"
by: Dark Flame Master

SHIN'S POV

It's still too early, it's just 1 PM. "What should I do?" I mumble to myself.

Something's off with Juri and Ai today. Why would Ai be at Juri’s house when she was just discharged from the hospital? Shouldn't she be resting? I shake my head, trying to push that thought aside. I could go visit Mom. Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. I’ll visit her.

On my way to the hospital, I suddenly noticed the paper bag Juri gave me earlier. "What is this?" I whisper, my curiosity is getting the best of me. The moment I start to reach inside, the taxi driver interrupts.

“Sir, we’re here already,” he says, looking at me through the rearview mirror.

“Oh… right. Thanks.” I grab my wallet and pay him, giving a small smile. "Thank you, sir," I say before stepping out.

I glance at the paper bag again. Well, I can always open it later. Juri told me to open it with the twins, after all. But wait… why the twins? Why would she want me to open it with them? What’s inside that makes her think it’s something we should share together? I shake my head again. That's not important right now. What’s important is visiting Mom.

As I walk through the hospital entrance, I can't help but glance around searching for Ruka and Luca. It's strange I don't see them anywhere. They definitely went to the hospital this morning. Maybe they’re busy but I still thought I’d catch a glimpse of them.

I make my way down the hallway, passing nurses and patients, my footsteps echoing on the tiled floor. I try to shake off the weird feeling that something’s missing.

Finally, I reach the door to my mom’s room and gently push it open. “Mom,” I say quietly as I step inside.

She turns her head and her face lights up with a warm smile. “Oh, Shin, happy birthday!”

“Thank you,” I say, walking toward her.

She gives me a soft look but I can see the sadness in her eyes. “I’m sorry we can’t spend your birthday like we used to.”

I quickly shake my head. “It’s okay, Mom. I just want you to get better. We can do all those things later  once you're healthier.”

Her smile widens at my words and I can see a bit of relief in her expression. “Well, speaking of getting better, the doctor told me I’m allowed to go outside for a little walk. Would you like to take a stroll with me?”

I blink in surprise. “Really?”

Mom nods, looking a little proud. "Yes, really."

I feel my heart lift at that. Mom being able to walk around is a huge step. I move quickly to help her up, making sure to be gentle. She leans on me as we start to make our way out of the room and down the hallway. Every now and then I glance at her just to make sure she’s okay.

I still keep looking around for Ruka and Luca, though. It’s almost like an instinct at this point. They’re usually always nearby. It feels strange not seeing them.

As we walk, Mom notices my distracted glances. “Shin?” she asks.

“Yes?” I quickly turned my attention back to her. “Are you tired? Do you need to rest?”

“No, I’m fine,” she says, but her eyes narrow slightly. “But something seems to be bothering you. What’s on your mind?”

I pause for a second, then sigh. “It’s nothing, really. It’s just… I haven’t seen Ruka and Luca since this morning. They said they were coming to the hospital but I didn’t see them anywhere.”