Hearts in chaos: Hearts Entwined book 4

22

The morning sun streamed through the kitchen windows, casting a warm glow over the room as Mia moved around, preparing breakfast for Jiwoon. She could hear the sounds of the mansion waking up—Jin’s footsteps padding down the hallway and the distant sounds of the city coming alive outside. Yet, despite the beautiful morning and the laughter of the little boy she cared for, a heaviness hung in the air.

After last night, Mia felt conflicted. She had known it was a mistake, giving in to the heat of the moment with Jin. He was her employer, after all, and while their connection had been undeniable, crossing that line had added a layer of complexity to their relationship that she hadn’t anticipated. She had seen a different side of him—one that was raw and vulnerable—but it terrified her.

So today, she resolved to focus solely on Jiwoon. As she set a plate of scrambled eggs and toast in front of him, she pushed aside the memories of their shared passion. The little boy beamed up at her, his eyes shining with joy.

“Yummy!” Jiwoon exclaimed, digging into his breakfast with enthusiasm.

“Eat up, big guy,” she said, smiling down at him, her heart swelling with affection. “We’ve got a busy day ahead.”

“Yay!” Jiwoon cheered, his mouth half-full.

Mia couldn’t help but chuckle at his antics. Jiwoon was a delightful child—curious, lively, and utterly adorable. She loved her job, and caring for him felt fulfilling. Each day, she made it her mission to ensure that he was happy and healthy, teaching him new things while also having fun. The bond they were forming was something she cherished deeply.

As she served Jiwoon another helping of fruit, she noticed Jin enter the kitchen. Their eyes met briefly, and the weight of their unspoken tension made her stomach twist. He looked handsome as ever, dressed in a fitted shirt that accentuated his broad shoulders, but she quickly averted her gaze, focusing back on Jiwoon.

“Good morning, Mia,” Jin said, his tone friendly yet cautious, as if he were testing the waters.

“Good morning,” she replied curtly, forcing a smile, refusing to let him see the turmoil churning inside her.

“Jiwoon, did you sleep well?” Jin asked, kneeling beside his son.

“Yeah! Mia read me a story!” Jiwoon said proudly, his little face lighting up with joy.

“Did she?” Jin glanced at Mia, a hint of surprise in his expression. “What story did you read him?”

“A fun one about a dragon who learns to fly,” she said, trying to keep her tone light. “Jiwoon loved it.”

“Dragons are cool!” Jiwoon chimed in, bouncing in his chair.

“Maybe we can find another dragon book later,” Jin suggested, turning to Mia. “You’re doing a great job with him.”

“Thanks,” Mia replied, her voice softening momentarily before she steeled herself again. “But it’s my job.”

Silence filled the room as they continued breakfast, Jiwoon happily chatting about his favorite cartoons while Jin shot occasional glances her way. Each look felt like a reminder of what had happened between them, a silent acknowledgment of their intimacy that hung heavily in the air.

After breakfast, Mia quickly shifted her focus back to Jiwoon. “Ready for some fun outside?” she asked, hoping to redirect the energy of the morning.

“Yes!” Jiwoon shouted, pumping his fists in the air.

“Alright, let’s get you dressed!” she said, springing into action. As she helped him into his shoes, she tried to ignore the way Jin watched them from the kitchen, the way his gaze lingered as if he were pondering something deep.