Blessing in Disguise

Chapter Thirty-One

Y/N

12/24/2019

The cozy warmth of the Huh household on Christmas Eve was the perfect remedy for the winter chill outside. Y/N nestled deeper into the thick blanket he shared with Yunjin, feeling her head gently rest against his shoulder. The air was alive with laughter, mingling with the fragrant scent of fresh pine from the Christmas tree and the mouthwatering aroma of cookies baking in the kitchen. The soft glow of holiday lights from the tree painted the room in rich reds, greens, and golds, casting a gentle ambiance that wrapped around them like an extra layer of warmth.

Mr. Huh, comfortably seated in his armchair, was glued to the television, watching the Jets game with an intensity that only a true fan could muster. Every so often, he'd throw his hands up or mutter something about how the Jets were "falling apart at the seams." He'd turn to Y/N, eyes wide, asking, "Can you believe this, son? How do they keep managing to mess up a simple play?"

Y/N chuckled, nodding empathetically, his free hand rubbing Yunjin's shoulder as he replied, "I know, Mr. Huh. It's like they're inventing new ways to lose." He could feel Yunjin shake slightly with laughter beside him, and he smiled down at her, grateful for this simple, perfect moment.

Across the room, the kitchen was bustling with activity. Mrs. Huh and Y/N's mom were in a deep discussion about cookie recipes while rolling out dough. Rachel and Yunjin's little brother took turns cutting shapes with cookie cutters, their faces dusted with flour as they tried to sneak bits of dough when they thought no one was looking. Y/N's older sister leaned on the kitchen island, entertained by the flour battles that occasionally erupted, joining in with stories of past Christmas mishaps that had everyone giggling.

"Hey, future husband," Yunjin murmured, her voice a soft, teasing whisper that made his heart flutter. Her breath was warm against his ear as she continued, "Think they'll let us have some cookies straight out of the oven? I'm starving."

Y/N grinned, looking at her with a playful sparkle in his eyes. "I think I can arrange that, future wife," he whispered back, his voice equally soft but filled with affection. He pressed a quick, gentle kiss to her forehead, feeling her relax even further into his embrace. Their quiet exchange felt like a secret, shared just between them, adding a layer of sweetness to an already perfect evening.

They both watched the kitchen scene with amusement as Mrs. Huh playfully tapped Rachel's nose with flour, laughing as Yunjin's brother retaliated by tossing a pinch of flour into the air, earning giggles from everyone around. Y/N's mom, laughing, wiped her hands on a towel, looking back toward Y/N and Yunjin with a knowing smile. It was a rare moment of calm for everyone, free from the pressures and worries that so often took center stage. And Y/N was struck by how much this moment, here with his family and the Huhs, felt like home.

"You know," Y/N began softly, his gaze on Yunjin's peaceful expression, "these are the kind of nights I could get used to. Just... us, family, and a whole lot of love."

Yunjin lifted her head, meeting his eyes, her smile soft and filled with warmth. "I know exactly what you mean," she replied, squeezing his hand gently under the blanket. "These are the kinds of memories I want to keep forever."

They sat in comfortable silence for a few minutes, the world around them fading as they became immersed in each other's presence. Every now and then, Yunjin would lean up, whispering little jokes and teasing comments, making Y/N chuckle.

Meanwhile, Mr. Huh groaned loudly at yet another Jets fumble, throwing his hands up in frustration. "I swear, this team just loves making me suffer," he muttered, shaking his head.