Secret Love

38| unexpected

As the morning wore on, Jisung realized he hadn't seen his father since breakfast. He turned to his mother, who was tidying up the living room, and asked, "Mom, where's Dad? I haven't seen him anywhere."

His mother paused, a hint of a smile on her face. "Your dad had to attend a business Christmas celebration. He told me he'd be back before the afternoon, so I'm sure he'll be home soon."

Jisung nodded, a simple "Okay" escaping his lips. He stood up from the couch, stretching his arms over his head. "I'm going to my room for a bit," he announced, already heading towards the stairs.

His mother looked up, her eyes warm with concern. "Alright, dear. Just let me know if you need anything, okay?"

As the morning gave way to afternoon, the Han household began to buzz with activity. Jisung's mother busied herself in the kitchen, preparing a sumptuous feast for their Christmas gathering celebration. The aroma of roasting meats and baking cookies wafted through the air, tantalizing the senses and building anticipation.

Jisung, having spent the morning in his room, emerged refreshed and ready to join in the festivities. He helped his mother with the final preparations, setting the table and arranging the decorations.

As they worked, Jisung's mother mentioned their expected guests. "The Lees will be arriving soon. I'm so excited to see them!" She smiled, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

Jisung smiled, too, looking forward to spending the afternoon with their close family friends. Mr. and Mrs. Lee had been like a second family to the Hans. Last year, they celebrated Christmas at the Lees' house, and now it was the Hans' turn to host.

As the clock struck three, the doorbell rang, signaling the arrival of their guests. Jisung's mother beamed with excitement, "That must be the Lees! Let's go welcome them!"

Jisung's mother hurried to the door, with Jisung following closely behind. She opened the door to reveal Mr. and Mrs. Lee, dressed in festive attire and bearing warm smiles.

"Merry Christmas!" Mrs. Lee exclaimed as she hugged Jisung's mother tightly. Mr. Lee, as well give a gentle hug to jisung, wishing him a joyous holiday season.

As they entered the house, Jisung's mother couldn't help but notice the thoughtful gifts they had brought. "Oh, you didn't have to bring anything!" she protested, as Mrs. Lee handed her a beautifully wrapped box.

"Nonsense, my dear," Mrs. Lee replied. "We wanted to bring something special to celebrate the occasion. And I must say, your house looks lovely. The decorations are beautiful!"

As they chatted, Jisung's father walked into the room, a warm smile on his face. "Ah, perfect timing! I see our guests have arrived. Merry Christmas, everyone!"

The group exchanged warm greetings, and Jisung's mother invited them to take a seat in the living room. As they sat down, Jisung's father offered to pour some hot cider, and the group settled in for a cozy afternoon of conversation and celebration.

As they sat together, sipping hot cider and enjoying each other's company, Mr. Lee's thoughts turned to Minho, Jisung's best friend. "It would be wonderful if Minho were here with us today," he said wistfully. "I'm sure he's spending Christmas with his lovely wife and daughter, just like he does every year."

Mr. Lee then turned to Jisung with a mischievous glint in his eye. "Jisung, aren't you feeling a bit bored without Minho around?" he teased, knowing the two friends were inseparable.

Jisung chuckled politely, trying to play along. "Oh, no need, no problem," he said with a forced laugh. "I'm happy to spend Christmas with all of you." He smiled warmly, trying to reassure them that he was having a great time.