Enchanted (Bbangsaz)

83

The morning crept in softly, all golden rays and lingering warmth. Minji blinked awake first, her face nestled in the crook of Hanni's neck. Hanni stirred a moment later, mumbling a sleepy "Mm, morning," without opening her eyes, tightening her arm instinctively around Minji's waist.

"Good morning," Minji whispered, her voice still raspy with sleep.

Hanni opened one eye, grinning lazily. "You're warm."

Minji smiled against her skin. "You drooled on my arm."

"No, I didn't," Hanni gasped, lifting her head, then laughed when Minji showed her the damp patch. "Okay, maybe a little."

They eventually pulled themselves out of bed, sluggish and teasing, bumping shoulders and brushing hands while they prepared breakfast together. Nothing fancy—just toast, fruit, and coffee—but the way they moved around the kitchen, exchanging quiet smiles, shared glances and soft stolen kisses, made it feel like a little pocket of calm joy.

After they ate, Hanni disappeared into the bedroom to change. She had to take her mom to the airport, and as much as she didn't want to leave Minji's side, she knew it would only be for a few hours. Minji stayed on the couch, scrolling on her phone, humming one of Hanni's songs under her breath.

Then the doorbell rang.

Minji looked up, a bit surprised. "Did you order something?"

Hanni poked her head out of the room, halfway through putting on her jacket. "No? Oh—maybe she's here early."

When the door opened and Hanni's mom stepped inside with a warm smile, Minji stood quickly, straightening the hem of her sweatshirt.

"I hope I'm not interrupting anything," Hanni's mom said with a soft chuckle, placing her small suitcase by the door. "I just wanted to see you before I head to the airport."

Minji smiled, surprised and touched. "No, not at all. I... thank you. That's really thoughtful."

The older woman stepped forward and took Minji's hands gently. "I couldn't leave without checking in on you. You look so much better than the last time I saw you."

"I feel better," Minji said quietly, nodding. "It's been... a journey. But I'm okay now."

"I'm glad," Hanni's mom said sincerely. "You've been through a lot, and I want you to know—if you ever need anything, even from far away—you can count on me too, not just Hanni."

Minji blinked, her heart softening all over again. "That means more than I can say," she replied, her voice a bit hushed.

Hanni's mom gave her hands a light squeeze. "Just take care of each other. And please—don't end up in the hospital again, alright?"

Minji chuckled into her shoulder. "I'll do my best."

When they pulled apart, Hanni's mom looked her over one last time, then added playfully, "Also... try not to get in trouble again. I know my daughter's a little firestarter."

Minji laughed. "Yeah, she is."

"I'll wait in the car," she said, casting Hanni a look as she stepped back toward the door. "You've got five minutes before I leave without you."

Hanni saluted. "Got it, mom"

As the door closed behind her, Hanni turned to Minji and tilted her head. "You made her all soft."

Minji was still smiling. "She's sweet. Like someone I know."

Hanni wiggled her brows and stepped forward with a teasing glint in her eyes. "Flattering me? Dangerous move."