Arrange Marriage

CHAP 44

Chapter 44: A Day Just for Mingyu

Wonwoo stepped into the house, his usual sharp gaze softening the moment he saw the scene before him. Mingyu was slumped in the armchair, his head tilted back with exhaustion. Little Somi lay sprawled on his chest, her tiny fists clutching his shirt while her father’s other hand instinctively rested on her back, holding her secure even in his half-asleep state.
The room was littered with evidence of a long day—Somi’s toys scattered across the floor, an empty bottle on the side table, and a crumpled burp cloth nearby. The sight tugged at Wonwoo’s heart.
“Mingyu,” he called softly, careful not to startle either of them.
Mingyu blinked awake, his eyes heavy with fatigue but immediately focusing on their daughter. “You’re home,” he whispered, his voice hoarse. “Somi’s been... a bit restless today.”
Wonwoo walked over, gently taking Somi into his arms. The baby fussed briefly but quickly settled against him, her tiny fingers clutching his tie. He glanced down at Mingyu, taking in the dark circles under his eyes and his slouched posture.
“You look exhausted, love,” Wonwoo said, his voice filled with concern. “When was the last time you rested properly?”
Mingyu stretched, wincing slightly. “I’m fine. She’s just been clingy today, and I didn’t want anyone else taking care of her.”
Wonwoo sighed, crouching to meet Mingyu’s gaze. “Mingyu, you need a break. I’ve got Somi for the evening.”
Mingyu shook his head quickly, sitting up straighter. “Wonwoo, I’m her parent. I can handle it—”
“And you’ve been handling it beautifully,” Wonwoo interrupted gently but firmly. “But you’re human, Gyu. You need to recharge.” He smiled, leaning in to kiss Mingyu’s forehead. “That’s why I’ve planned something for you.”
Mingyu narrowed his eyes suspiciously. “What are you up to?”
“A spa day,” Wonwoo declared with a grin. “A massage, a soak in the hot tub, and a few hours of uninterrupted relaxation. No crying, no bottles, no baby monitors.”
“No,” Mingyu said immediately, crossing his arms.
“Yes,” Wonwoo countered, placing Somi back in her bassinet and sitting beside his stubborn husband. “You deserve it. I can handle Somi for a few hours.”
“I don’t like being away from her,” Mingyu admitted, biting his lip.
“And I love how much you adore her,” Wonwoo said, taking Mingyu’s hand. “But I also love you, and you can’t pour from an empty cup. Please, let me take care of you for once.”
It took another ten minutes of gentle coaxing, reassurances, and a few forehead kisses before Mingyu finally relented. “Fine,” he grumbled, though the hint of a smile tugged at his lips. “But if she cries, you call me immediately.”
“Deal,” Wonwoo said with a soft laugh.
Hours later, Mingyu returned from his spa treatment looking far more relaxed, though he immediately made a beeline for the nursery. He paused at the door, peeking inside to find Wonwoo cradling Somi in the rocking chair, humming softly to lull her to sleep.
Mingyu leaned against the doorway, his heart full. “You two did okay without me?”
Wonwoo glanced up with a teasing smile. “Barely survived, but we managed.”
Mingyu chuckled, walking over to join them. “Thank you, Wonwoo. For everything.”
“Always,” Wonwoo said, pressing a kiss to Mingyu’s temple. “Now, no more running yourself into the ground, okay?”
Mingyu nodded, letting himself lean into Wonwoo’s warmth, his family safe and sound in his arms.