It was a busy day at the event, with people bustling about, chattering, and enjoying the festivities. Sunoo, now 18, had gotten caught up in the excitement, losing track of time as he wandered through the crowded area. His heart had always been drawn to exploring, to uncovering hidden gems, and today was no different. But in his enthusiasm, he had neglected to say goodbye to his parents—Mingyu and Wonwoo.
The two had been busy with their own professional duties and had assumed Sunoo was with one of his friends. They hadn’t realized he had strayed so far from their side until it was too late.
As Sunoo moved through the throng of people, he suddenly froze. The familiar, comforting presence he had longed for was standing just ahead. There, amidst the crowd, stood Mingyu, tall and confident as always, his sharp eyes scanning the area. Sunoo’s heart skipped a beat. His father had always had this way of standing out in a crowd, even without trying.
Mingyu’s eyes landed on him, and his expression softened, a mixture of surprise and relief crossing his features. He made his way toward Sunoo, weaving through the crowd effortlessly.
“You’re here,” Mingyu said with a slight smirk, his voice carrying that warm tone that Sunoo had grown so accustomed to.
“I—I got lost,” Sunoo admitted, his voice quieter than usual. He hadn’t meant to stray away from his parents, but something about the event had pulled him in different directions, leading him to lose track of where he was.
Mingyu raised an eyebrow, but instead of reprimanding him, he chuckled. “You’re 18 now, Sunoo. I think you’re old enough to explore on your own, but you should’ve let us know where you were.”
“I’m sorry,” Sunoo mumbled, feeling a little guilty for not saying goodbye.
“I understand,” Mingyu said, his hand brushing gently against Sunoo's shoulder. “But next time, don’t run off without telling us. We worry.”
Sunoo’s gaze softened as he nodded, his father’s words carrying a weight that made him feel the love between them. Mingyu had always been protective, but also incredibly understanding. It was moments like these that made Sunoo realize how much his father truly cared.
Suddenly, a voice interrupted the moment—a familiar, calm tone that belonged to Wonwoo. He had been standing just behind Mingyu, his expression a mix of amusement and concern.
“Are you two done with your reunion?” Wonwoo teased, his arms crossed in a casual yet authoritative manner.
Sunoo smiled sheepishly, feeling a bit embarrassed by his wandering. “I didn’t mean to worry you both.”
Wonwoo chuckled softly, reaching over to ruffle Sunoo's hair. “It’s okay. You’re growing up, and we have to let go a little. But don’t forget where your roots are, alright?”
Sunoo nodded, feeling the bond between them—a connection that went beyond the simple familial ties. Mingyu and Wonwoo weren’t just his parents, they were the ones who shaped him into the person he was.
In this moment, surrounded by them, Sunoo felt something unspoken between them—a mutual understanding, an unbreakable bond that transcended words.
“I’ll stay with you two now,” Sunoo said, his tone soft but filled with a quiet certainty.
Mingyu and Wonwoo shared a brief glance, and then Mingyu grinned. “We’re glad to have you back with us.”
Sunoo stayed close to his parents for the rest of the event, feeling the warmth of their presence, knowing that no matter where he wandered, their love would always be a guiding force, waiting for him to return.
