Author's note please read- I know that I haven't updated this in a while but there was a period of time in the last few months where the interest it dropped and thus my interest and ideas for this book began to fizzle out, though I have seen recently a few people have been reading and voting so thank you for that. I have decided to try and write a couple more chapters before ending the book wherever I decide to, though it won't have a definite ending, but if you would like to continue reading something like this then I have started writing a new book based on actor Bae Hyun-sung known in the second season of Gyeongseong Creature, Our Blues, and Hospital Playlist. I have published the first two chapters and are in the process of the third, it is called ( The Star's Hidden Child ) so please read and vote on it, it would mean a lot. Thank you.
~
The late September sun peeked through the curtains of Do Hwan's cozy apartment. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of autumn, signaling the end of summer and the beginning of another chapter in his life. He had always loved this time of year; it reminded him of new beginnings, a fresh start. But this time, his fresh start came with a sense of responsibility unlike anything he had ever known.
The room was dimly lit, save for the early morning light spilling through the window, casting a soft glow on the packed luggage by the door. His upcoming trip to Thailand was an exciting opportunity—a photoshoot and a chance to explore some of the most beautiful places in the country. But this time, it wasn't just about him. It was about Sarang.
The buzzing sound of the alarm clock pulled him from his thoughts. It was time to get moving. The flight to Thailand wasn't going to wait, and he still had to get Sarang up and dressed.
Walking softly across the room, he peeked into Sarang's room. She was curled up in her tiny bed, her small body wrapped in a pastel blanket, her soft breathing the only sound in the room. A smile tugged at the corner of Do Hwan's lips.
She looked so peaceful, her chest rising and falling steadily. "Sarang-ah," he whispered gently, but she didn't stir.
As much as he wanted to let her sleep a little longer, there was no time to waste. He leaned down and placed a hand on her back, rubbing it in slow circles. "Sarang-ah, we have to get ready now, okay?"
Her eyes fluttered open slowly, and she blinked up at him, her lips parting in a small yawn. "Appa?" she mumbled, her voice still groggy.
"Ne, Appa's here," he said softly, smiling down at her. "We have to get up now. We're going to the airport today, remember? We're going to Thailand."
Sarang's eyes widened at the mention of the trip, though she likely didn't understand the full meaning of it. Still, she smiled—a small, tired smile that made his heart ache with love. He scooped her up into his arms, her body warm and soft against his chest.
"Shall we get you dressed, princess?" he asked, kissing her forehead as he carried her to the changing mat on the floor.
It took a few minutes as he carefully dressed her in soft leggings and a cute navy blue sweater. Sarang wasn't much for words, but she babbled contentedly, her hands fiddling with her stuffed rabbit as he worked.
He took her to the kitchen then prepared the formula, measuring it out carefully.
Returning to Sarang, he saw her staring out of the window, watching the sky gradually light up with the promise of a new day. He knelt beside her with the syringe of formula, his voice soft as he spoke, "Okay, Sarang-ah, it's time for your breakfast."
She looked at him, her eyes wide and trusting. He began to slowly administer the feed through the tube, watching her closely, making sure she was comfortable. It was one of the quieter moments they shared each day, just the two of them in this delicate routine. Despite the medical equipment and the challenges, he always tried to make these moments feel as normal as possible, like any other father feeding his child.
After a few minutes, the feed was done, and Do Hwan wiped Sarang's face gently with a cloth. "All done, my love," he whispered. "You're all set now."
After putting on her ankle splints and shoes and putting on her coat he put on his own coat and shoes before he smiled and kissed her forehead again before scooping her up in his arms, holding her close as they made their way to the door.
The trip to the airport was uneventful. The driver helped them with their bags, and Sarang remained quiet, watching the world go by through the window as they drove through the still-dark streets of Seoul. Do Hwan's mind was busy, going over the itinerary, the photoshoot, the tour they'd take across Thailand, and the places they'd see. He was excited about the work, of course, but more than that, he was looking forward to showing Sarang the world outside their home, beyond the walls of hospitals and therapy centers.
"We're going to see elephants, Sarang-ah. You're going to love them," he whispered, glancing down at his daughter. She blinked up at him, her wide eyes reflecting the faint light of the early morning.
By the time they arrived at the airport, the hustle and bustle had begun. Do Hwan balanced the bags on one shoulder while holding Sarang securely on his hip. He navigated the crowds with ease, his mind sharp, alert as always, scanning for anything that might make Sarang uncomfortable or overwhelmed.
As they approached the departure gate, Sarang looked up at him, her hand reaching for his.
"Appa," she whispered.
"Ne, Sarang-ie?" he asked, bending down to her level.
"L - Love... Appa."
His heart swelled, and his eyes softened. "Appa loves you too, Sarang-ie. More than anything."
YOU ARE READING
The Unexpected Gift | Woo Do Hwan
FanfictionAfter his discharge from the military he was welcomed back and settled back into his normal life and routine just as before but one night for Do Hwan that quickly changed. What happens when he is attacked and a few weeks later discovers he is a carr...