Hearts in chaos: Hearts Entwined book 4

12

The sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden hue over the park as Mia gently lifted Jiwoon into her arms. His little body felt warm and cozy against her, and she smiled at the sight of his peaceful face, eyes fluttering in the remnants of sleep. The morning had been filled with laughter, play, and even a few tumbles, but after a long afternoon of running around, Jiwoon had finally succumbed to exhaustion.

Jin walked beside them, his hands stuffed into the pockets of his jeans, glancing at Mia with an expression of genuine regret. “I’m really sorry about how I acted last night,” he said again, breaking the comfortable silence that surrounded them.

“It’s okay, Jin,” Mia replied, smiling reassuringly. “I understand. You were worried about Jiwoon.”

“But still, I shouldn’t have yelled,” he insisted, shaking his head. “I’m still adjusting to everything, you know? It’s just been… a lot.”

Mia nodded in understanding, her heart softening at his vulnerability. “I get that. It’s a big change for all of us, but you’re doing a great job. Jiwoon is a happy kid, and that says a lot.”

As they continued their stroll, Jiwoon shifted slightly in Mia’s arms, mumbling incoherently. “Mia... no scolding... my best friend...” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Jin couldn’t help but laugh, the sound echoing through the quiet streets. “You hear that, Mia? He’s already defending you.”

Mia chuckled softly, looking down at the sleeping boy nestled against her shoulder. “He’s such a sweetheart,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I love how he stands up for his friends.”

“Yeah, he’s got a big heart,” Jin replied, pride swelling in his chest as he watched them. “He’s always been like that, even at such a young age. He cares deeply about the people in his life.”

Mia felt a warmth spread through her at Jin’s words. She could see the love he had for his son in every action, and it made her heart ache in the best possible way. “You’re a good dad, Jin. Jiwoon is lucky to have you.”

“Thanks, that means a lot,” he said, a hint of a smile breaking through his earlier unease. “I just want to make sure he feels safe and loved, especially after everything that’s happened.”

As they approached the house, Mia gently shifted Jiwoon to cradle him more securely in her arms. “I think it’s about time for his nap,” she said, her eyes sparkling. “We can make a cozy little spot for him on the couch.”

Jin opened the front door, stepping aside to let her enter first. “I’ll grab some blankets,” he offered, moving toward the living room.

Once inside, Mia carefully laid Jiwoon down on the couch, pulling a soft blanket over him and tucking it around his small frame. She felt a sense of warmth in her chest as she brushed a few strands of hair off his forehead, his sleeping face bringing her an overwhelming sense of peace.

“He looks so peaceful,” she whispered, glancing over her shoulder at Jin, who had returned with an extra pillow.

“Yeah, he really does,” Jin replied, placing the pillow behind Jiwoon’s head. He watched her with a mix of admiration and gratitude. “Thank you for being so great with him. It means a lot to me.”

Mia shrugged, a light blush creeping up her cheeks. “It’s easy to be good with him. He’s a joy to be around.”

Just then, Jiwoon stirred slightly, his eyes fluttering open for a moment before settling back into a deep sleep.

“Shhh,” Jin whispered playfully, stepping back. “He’s still asleep, let’s not wake him.”

As they both quietly retreated to the kitchen, the atmosphere shifted into something lighter, filled with an easy camaraderie. Jin poured himself a cup of coffee and offered one to Mia. “Would you like some?”

“Yes, please! Thank you!” she replied, smiling as she accepted the steaming mug.

They moved to the dining table, settling into their chairs, and took a moment to sip their drinks in companionable silence. The soft sounds of Jiwoon’s breathing from the living room filled the air, a calming backdrop to their conversation.

“I was thinking we could do something fun later,” Jin said, breaking the silence. “Maybe go out for ice cream or do a movie night at home?”

Mia’s face lit up. “Ice cream sounds amazing! It would be nice to celebrate Jiwoon’s naptime with a little treat.”

“Yeah, and it gives us some time to bond,” Jin added, his gaze lingering on her, appreciating the way she smiled. “I want to get to know you better, too.”

Mia felt her cheeks heat up at the compliment. “I’d like that. It’s nice to have someone to talk to who understands what it’s like to take care of a kid.”

“Exactly,” Jin said, his smile widening. “We can share all the funny things Jiwoon does, and maybe I can pick up a few tips on how to keep him entertained.”

“I’m all for that!” Mia laughed, her laughter bright and infectious. “I have a few tricks up my sleeve. And Jiwoon loves crafts, so we can get creative!”

The idea of spending more time together filled Jin with warmth. He liked how easily they could talk to one another and how naturally they fell into a rhythm. The earlier tension felt like a distant memory.

After a few moments, Jin cleared his throat, wanting to address the previous night’s conflict again. “Mia, I really do appreciate everything you’ve done for Jiwoon and for me. I know I wasn’t the easiest to deal with last night, and I just want you to know that you’re doing a fantastic job.”

Mia looked down, a shy smile creeping onto her lips. “I appreciate you saying that. I really enjoy being here and helping out. Jiwoon is a wonderful kid.”

Jin met her gaze, and for a moment, everything felt comfortable and right. “I’m glad you’re part of our lives. I can’t imagine doing this without you.”

Just then, they heard a soft noise coming from the living room, and both turned their heads to see Jiwoon stirring awake.

“Is it ice cream time?” Jiwoon mumbled sleepily, rubbing his eyes with tiny fists.

“Not yet, buddy. We were just talking about going out for some after you wake up,” Jin replied, grinning at his son.

Jiwoon beamed, the idea of ice cream quickly washing away his drowsiness. “Yay! Can I have chocolate? With sprinkles?”

“Of course, you can,” Mia said, standing up from the table and moving toward Jiwoon. “How about we get you dressed first?”

“Okay!” Jiwoon jumped off the couch, excitement radiating from him as he ran toward his room. Jin and Mia exchanged amused glances before following him.

As they reached Jiwoon’s room, Jin helped him pick out a cute shirt and shorts, while Mia found matching socks. The little boy giggled and twirled around, clearly enjoying the attention from both adults.

“Do I look cool?” Jiwoon asked, striking a pose for them, puffing out his chest in pride.

“You look awesome!” Jin exclaimed, ruffling his hair. “Ready for a fun day out?”

“Yes!” Jiwoon exclaimed, looking up at Mia with bright eyes. “Can we go now?”

“Absolutely, let’s go!” Mia replied, her heart swelling with happiness at the joy they were creating together.

As they all headed out the door, Jin felt a renewed sense of hope and excitement for the days to come. It was still early in their journey together, but with Mia by his side, things felt a little brighter.

The car ride to the ice cream shop was filled with laughter and playful banter, Jiwoon in the backseat excitedly telling Mia all about his favorite flavors while Jin listened, his heart swelling with pride and affection for both of them.

As they arrived at the ice cream shop, Jiwoon jumped out of the car, pulling Mia along with him as they made their way inside. Jin followed, watching them with a smile. In that moment, he couldn’t help but feel that maybe, just maybe, their little family was beginning to find its footing again.

With each passing day, the pieces of their lives were falling into place, and as they enjoyed ice cream and laughter together, Jin realized that healing could come in the most unexpected ways. And perhaps this new chapter, with Mia at their side, could be just what they needed.