Seo-Won arrived at Ha-Joon's house just as the sun was setting, carrying a small bag of desserts he had picked up on the way. As soon as Ha-Joon opened the door, a soft smile formed on his lips.
"You're early," Ha-Joon said, tilting his head.
Seo-Won shrugged. "I missed you."
Ha-Joon's cheeks turned slightly pink, but before he could reply, his grandfather called out from the kitchen. "Seo-Won, come in! I hope you're hungry!"
"I am," Seo-Won grinned as he stepped inside, inhaling the comforting scent of homemade food.
Dinner was filled with warmth and laughter. Seo-Won and Ha-Joon sat across from each other, occasionally sneaking glances while Ha-Joon's grandfather happily told stories about Ha-Joon's childhood—some of which made Ha-Joon groan in embarrassment.
"Did you know Ha-Joon used to cry whenever he saw a puppy?" his grandfather chuckled.
"Grandpa!" Ha-Joon covered his face, his ears turning red.
Seo-Won smirked. "Really? That's adorable."
"Don't listen to him," Ha-Joon mumbled, stuffing a spoonful of rice into his mouth to avoid further humiliation.
Seo-Won just laughed, enjoying the warmth of the moment. It had been a long time since he had a meal that felt like home.
After dinner, the three of them sat together in the living room, chatting like a real family. Ha-Joon couldn't remember the last time he had felt this happy and content.
Then, one evening, Seo-Won made an unexpected invitation.
"Grandpa," he started, his voice steady. "Ha-Joon."
Both looked at him curiously.
"I'd like to invite you both to my family home."
Ha-Joon blinked in surprise. "Your family home?"
Seo-Won nodded. "I want you to meet my parents. And… I want them to know the people who are most important to me." His gaze softened as it landed on Ha-Joon. "I want them to meet you."
Ha-Joon's heart skipped a beat.
His grandfather smiled warmly. "That's a wonderful idea."
Ha-Joon hesitated, a bit nervous. Meeting Seo-Won's family felt like a big step. But when he looked into Seo-Won's reassuring blue eyes, he found himself nodding.
"Alright… Let's go."
Seo-Won's smile widened. "Then it's decided."