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The sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm, golden hue over the quiet neighborhood as Jin navigated the streets in his car. Excitement bubbled within him, a delightful anticipation that made his heart race. Today was special—he had surprises for both Jiwoon and Mia, and he couldn’t wait to see their reactions.

Pulling into the driveway, he glanced at the colorful stuffed bear peeking out of the bag on the passenger seat, a playful reminder of his thoughtfulness. Alongside it, a vibrant bouquet of wildflowers waited, a simple yet heartfelt gift for Mia. The two tokens symbolized his growing affection and gratitude for the warmth she had brought back into their lives.

As he stepped out of the car, Jin inhaled the crisp evening air, a smile spreading across his face as the sound of Jiwoon’s laughter drifted from inside the house. It was music to his ears, a sound that filled his heart with joy. He walked up to the front door and pushed it open, greeted by the delightful chaos of their home.

Inside, he found Mia and Jiwoon sprawled on the floor, surrounded by a sea of toys. Jiwoon was giggling as he tried to stack blocks, his tiny hands working diligently. Mia sat beside him, offering encouragement, her eyes sparkling with laughter.

“Daddy!” Jiwoon shouted, his face lighting up like a Christmas tree at the sight of Jin. He abandoned his blocks and rushed toward him, arms outstretched.

“Hey there, champ!” Jin knelt down, enveloping his son in a warm embrace. Jiwoon’s laughter echoed around him, pure and infectious.

“How was your day?” Mia asked, looking up with a warm smile that made Jin’s heart flutter.

“Long, but it’s always worth it when I come home to you two,” Jin replied, his eyes twinkling. He reached into the bag beside him and pulled out the bouquet of flowers. “I brought these for you, Mia.”

Mia’s eyes widened in surprise as she accepted the vibrant blooms. “Oh, Jin! They’re beautiful! Thank you so much!” A blush crept across her cheeks as she inhaled their sweet fragrance, her heart swelling at the thoughtful gesture.

“You deserve it,” Jin said, stepping a bit closer, his gaze unwavering. “You make this house feel like a home again.”

Mia’s heart raced as she held the flowers close, feeling the weight of his sincerity. “You’re too kind,” she replied, a shy smile spreading across her face.

“And for you, Mr. Jiwoon…” Jin turned to his son, pulling out the plush bear from the bag. “I got this for you.”

The little boy’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “A bear!” he exclaimed, reaching out eagerly. “Thank you, Daddy!”

“Now, what should we name it?” Jin asked as Jiwoon clutched the bear to his chest.

“Mr. Fluffy!” Jiwoon shouted, bouncing with joy.

“Mr. Fluffy it is!” Jin laughed, glancing at Mia, who was grinning from ear to ear. Her happiness made his heart swell, and he couldn’t help but feel grateful for this moment.

“Can we take Mr. Fluffy outside?” Jiwoon asked, his eyes wide with hope.

“Of course! How about we play catch?” Jin suggested, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes.

“Yay!” Jiwoon cheered, running toward the back door, his new bear swinging in his arms.

“Wait for me!” Mia called, laughing as she followed. Jin trailed behind, his heart feeling lighter with each step.

Once outside, the sun cast long shadows over the backyard, and the air was fresh with the scent of grass and flowers. Jin picked up a small ball from the garden shed and tossed it gently to Jiwoon, who squealed with delight and ran to catch it.

“Good job, buddy!” Jin praised, beaming with pride as Jiwoon returned the ball. They continued this back-and-forth for a while, laughter echoing in the air.

Mia watched them, a soft smile on her face. The sight of Jin playing with Jiwoon filled her heart with warmth; it was a beautiful scene that captured the essence of their growing family.

After several rounds of throwing the ball, they eventually collapsed onto the grass, breathless and laughing. Jiwoon snuggled against Mia, clutching Mr. Fluffy, his eyes half-closed as he reveled in the joy of the moment.

“Did you have fun?” Jin asked, glancing at Jiwoon.

“Best day ever!” Jiwoon proclaimed, a huge smile plastered across his face.

“That’s what I like to hear,” Jin said, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction. Then he turned to Mia, his expression softening. “I’m really glad you joined us.”

Mia felt a blush creep up her cheeks as she met his gaze. “I had a great time too. It’s nice to see you two bonding.”

Jin nodded, his eyes sparkling with sincerity. “You know, you’ve really brought so much joy into our lives. I don’t think I can thank you enough for that.”

Mia’s heart raced at his words, her cheeks warming further. “It’s easy to bring joy when I’m surrounded by such amazing people.”

Jin leaned closer, the distance between them shrinking. “How about we make this a regular thing? You, me, and Jiwoon together?”

“I’d love that,” Mia replied, her heart fluttering at the thought. “It sounds perfect.”

“Then it’s settled,” Jin said, leaning in even closer. “How about a kiss to seal the deal?”

Mia’s breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding as she nodded, unable to suppress the smile on her lips. Jin leaned in, their lips brushing together softly in a sweet, tender kiss that ignited a spark of warmth in both their hearts.

As they pulled away, the world around them faded, leaving just the two of them in that beautiful moment. Jin’s gaze lingered on Mia, and he couldn’t help but smile. “I’d say that was a good start.”

Mia giggled, her heart racing. “Definitely a great start.”

“Alright, Mr. Fluffy,” Jin teased, turning to Jiwoon, who was watching them with wide eyes. “What do you think? Should I kiss your nanny more often?”

“Yes! Yes!” Jiwoon cheered, his laughter bubbling over.

Laughter erupted between them, filling the air with joy. Jin felt a rush of hope for the future, a sense that they were crafting a story filled with love, laughter, and companionship. With Mia by his side, he was ready to embrace whatever came next, knowing they would face it together.

As the sun dipped lower, casting a warm glow around them, Jin, Mia, and Jiwoon basked in the simple happiness of being together. They were building not just a home, but a family, one filled with laughter, love, and the magic of shared moments.

“Let’s play some more!” Jiwoon shouted, jumping to his feet, pulling Jin and Mia along with him.

“Alright, let’s go!” Jin laughed, ready to join in the fun. The three of them resumed their game, the laughter and joy echoing into the twilight, a perfect testament to the new beginning they were embarking on together.

Hearts in chaos:  Hearts Entwined book 4Where stories live. Discover now