Hearts in chaos: Hearts Entwined book 4

40

After a joyful evening of racing in the backyard, Jin gently tucked Jiwoon into bed, a smile playing on his lips as his son’s eyelids fluttered and finally succumbed to sleep. The little boy looked so peaceful, snuggled under the covers with Mr. Fluffy nestled beside him. Jin brushed a few stray strands of hair from Jiwoon’s forehead, feeling a rush of love that only a father could know.

“Goodnight, champ. Sweet dreams,” Jin whispered before stepping out of the room.

He made his way down the dimly lit hallway, his heart light and buoyant. Thoughts of the day’s laughter and the blossoming connection with Mia filled his mind. As he entered his room, he found Mia seated on the edge of the bed, her expression warm and inviting.

“Hey there,” she said softly, her eyes sparkling. “How was the tuck-in?”

“Perfect,” Jin replied, crossing the room to her. “He was so excited about Mr. Fluffy that he barely let me get the covers on before he was out cold.”

Mia chuckled, shaking her head. “That bear really is a hit. You know, you’ve done an amazing job with him. He adores you.”

“Thanks, but I couldn’t have done it without you,” Jin said, taking her hand and pulling her to her feet. “You’ve been incredible with him. It means a lot to both of us.”

Mia’s heart fluttered at his words. “I’m just doing what I can,” she replied modestly. “He’s such a sweet boy, and you’re a wonderful dad.”

Jin's gaze softened, and he felt an urge to pull her closer. “Why don’t we cuddle for a bit? I think we’ve both earned some rest after a long day.”

Mia smiled, feeling her cheeks warm. “I’d like that.”

Without waiting for a response, Jin lifted her into his arms, cradling her against his chest as he walked over to the bed. He set her down gently and slid in beside her, feeling a rush of contentment as they settled into the sheets.

The room was dim, lit only by the soft glow of the bedside lamp. Jin wrapped an arm around Mia, drawing her closer. She fit perfectly against him, her warmth seeping into his skin, and he breathed in her soothing scent—like fresh flowers and a hint of vanilla.

“I could get used to this,” Mia murmured, her voice barely above a whisper as she nestled against him.

“Me too,” Jin replied, closing his eyes as he savored the moment. The world outside faded away, leaving just the two of them cocooned in the soft embrace of the night. He felt a sense of peace wash over him, something he hadn’t felt in years.

With the warmth of Mia beside him and the echoes of Jiwoon’s laughter still in his mind, Jin let the stresses of the day slip away. It was as if everything was falling perfectly into place, like pieces of a puzzle he didn’t even know he was trying to solve.

As they lay there, drifting into sleep, Jin’s thoughts wandered. He couldn’t help but marvel at how different this felt compared to the past. Mia’s presence brought him comfort, something he hadn’t experienced since the days when his family had been whole.

But there was something more, something that ignited hope within him. He was falling for Mia—not just as Jiwoon’s nanny but as a partner, a confidante. There was a connection between them that felt destined, and he hoped that together, they could create a beautiful life.

***

Morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. Jin stirred awake, blinking against the bright light. He shifted slightly, stretching out his limbs when he suddenly noticed something unexpected.