Timeless | rorasa

Chapter 31: The Heart and The Home

The sun was setting, casting a warm golden hue across the sky as Rora returned from her final album promotion. Her mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Asa, as it always was these days. Despite the success of her album, all she cared about was making sure Asa was recovering well. Minju had stayed with Asa whenever Rora was busy, but the guilt still weighed heavily on her. She had made a promise to take care of her lover, and now that her schedule was clearing, Rora could finally fulfill that vow.

As Rora stepped into the house, she found Minju in the living room, sitting with a book on her lap. Minju looked up and smiled as Rora entered, her eyes reflecting understanding. "Asa's been resting all day," Minju said gently. "She's getting stronger, but she still needs a lot of care."

Rora nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "Thank you for being here, Minju," she said softly. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Minju waved it off with a smile. "You'd do the same for me if the roles were reversed."

Rora made her way upstairs, her heart beating faster as she neared Asa's room. Quietly opening the door, she found Asa lying in bed, her breathing steady, though still a bit labored. Rora's chest tightened at the sight of her, but this time, it wasn't the overwhelming fear that had gripped her during the rescue. It was determination.

"Asa..." Rora whispered, moving to sit by her side. Asa stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open. Despite her fragility, a small smile appeared on her lips when she saw Rora.

"My love..." Asa's voice was soft but steady, her eyes filled with warmth. "How did your promotion go?"

Rora smiled, brushing Asa's hair back gently. "It was good. But all I could think about was you. I'm here now, though. I'll take care of you, just like I promised."

Asa squeezed Rora's hand weakly. "There is no need for you to worry about me all the time. You have already done so much for me..."

Rora shook her head, her voice firm but tender. "I'll always worry about you, Asa. I love you. And nothing's more important to me than you getting better." She leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Asa's forehead.

From that day on, Rora devoted all her time and energy to caring for Asa. With her album promotions winding down, she finally had the time to focus entirely on her recovery. She cooked Asa's meals, made sure she took her medication on time, and sat with her for hours, just talking or holding her close.

Minju often visited, giving Rora breaks when she needed them, but it was clear that Rora wouldn't let anyone else take her place in caring for Asa. As the days passed, Asa slowly began to regain her strength. The bruises faded, and though she was still fragile, there was a spark of life in her eyes that hadn't been there before.

Rora cherished every moment, knowing that they had been given a second chance. Every time she looked at Asa, she was reminded of how close she had come to losing her. And now, she would never take a single day with her for granted.

One afternoon, as they sat together by the window, watching the autumn leaves fall outside, Asa turned to Rora with a soft smile. "You truly need not go to such lengths, you know. You are treating me as if I am something fragile."

Rora chuckled softly, shaking her head. "You are precious to me, love. I'm just keeping my promise."

Asa sighed, but her smile grew. "Thank you. For everything."

Rora leaned in, resting her forehead against Asa's. "I love you," she whispered. "And I'll never let anything happen to you again."

Asa closed her eyes, her voice barely a breath as she replied, "I love you too."