Love warning; Miss Park

“You're doing it wrong,” Sana said as she watched Mina.

“How am I doing it wrong?” Mina complained as she turned to look at Sana. “It's just mixing.”

“Yeah, and you're doing it wrong.”

Mina huffed and set the bowl down on the counter. “Remind me why I have to help you bake cupcakes?”

“Because you love me.”

“Yeah,” Mina said, “love you, not your boss.”

Sana rolled her eyes; her voice was still a bit hoarse, and her eyes were still red and puffy, but the fever was gone, and the headache too. Turns out, resting really helped.

“She helped me, so I want to do something nice for her.”

“Most people just say thank you, you know?” Mina said. “Besides, it’s not like she did anything that great. She just brought you home.”

“That is a big deal,” Sana replied. “It was really nice of her to give me a day off too.”

Mina sighed and turned back, grabbing the bowl again and mixing quickly. “I think it has more to do with the fact that you have a huge crush on her, but what do I know, right?” she murmured under her breath.

Mina felt the impact as Sana playfully tossed what she suspected was a towel at her, the soft fabric hitting her shoulder. She turned to see Sana smiling brightly, a mischievous glint in her eyes. Sana stepped closer, resting her cheek against Mina's shoulder.

“It’s not just because of the crush,” Sana said softly, her voice warm as she nuzzled against Mina.

Mina huffed, trying to maintain her composure. “Yeah, right.”

Sana pouted, her expression exaggerated and playful. “But you told me to try to be friends with Jihyo! I’m really trying here!”

Mina sighed, rolling her eyes. “Even so, baking cookies is excessive.”

“No, it’s not! You’re just jealous,” Sana shot back, a teasing smile on her face.

Mina puffed out her cheeks in a mock pout. “Jealous? Why would I be jealous?”

“Because it’s the first time in months that I’m making my cookies!” Sana exclaimed, her eyes sparkling.

Mina crossed her arms, mimicking Sana’s pout. “Well I help you too! I deserve those cookies!”

Sana let out a laugh, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “Okay, okay! You do deserve them, but help me out first”

Mina sighed, rolling her eyes dramatically. “You better make sure I can eat some of those cookies later, or I’m going to get really mad!”

Sana smiled brightly, “Don’t worry! You’ll get your share, I promise!”

After several hours of laughter and flour flying around the kitchen, Sana had practically taken charge, while Mina tried her best to sneak in bites of the ingredients. Finally, the cookies were baked, packed, and ready to be enjoyed. That day passed quietly, with just Mina and Sana lounging together, munching on a few cookies while watching TV.

The next day was when everything started to unravel. First, Sana's alarm didn’t go off, reminding her of how she had turned it off the previous day because she wanted to sleep in. Second, she realized she had fallen asleep on the couch, with Mina lying beside her—well, almost on top of her. Sana could feel Mina’s soft snores, and due to the position they were in, her arm had gone completely numb.

“Mina,” Sana murmured, trying to move her arm without waking her friend. But it was as if Mina was glued to her, showing no sign of waking up.

Carefully, Sana attempted to shift to the side, but the gentle movement made Mina protest and snuggle closer. “What time is it?” Mina mumbled, still with her eyes closed.

Sana sighed, “I don’t know,” she replied, trying to twist her body just enough to glance at the clock on the wall. As she finally caught a glimpse of the time, her eyes widened in horror. “Oh no! It’s late!” she shouted, springing up from the couch in a panic.

The sudden movement sent Mina tumbling off the couch with a thud. “Ouch!” she groaned, rubbing her head as she looked up at Sana with sleepy annoyance. “What was that for?”

“Get up! We’re going to be late for work!” Sana exclaimed, darting around the room, frantically searching for her clothes.

Mina grumbled, her voice muffled as she slowly pushed herself off the floor. “Can’t you just let me sleep a little longer?!”

Sana turned around, her eyes wide with urgency. “I think you don’t understand. We’re late for work!” she shouted, her voice echoing in the small living room.

Mina groaned again, dragging her feet as she finally stood up. “I’m not going”

“Just get dressed already!”

“Why do I get yell at?” Mina whined, her eyes still half-closed as she shuffled around the room.

“Because you’re the one who decided to sleep on the couch instead of your bed!” Sana shot back.

After a few more moments of bickering, Sana finally managed to get dressed. She grabbed a container of cookies from the kitchen, holding it tightly as if it were a lifeline. “Alright, I’m ready! Let’s go!”

Mina begrudgingly pulled on a shirt and jeans, her expression still grumpy but resigned. “Fine, I’m ready too,” she said, a bit slower than Sana.

They rushed out of the apartment, racing down the stairs and out toward Mina’s car.

Mina jumped into the driver’s seat, starting the engine with a roar, her foot pressing down hard on the gas pedal. The car shot forward, weaving through the morning traffic as Mina drove as fast as she could.

Finally, they arrived at the office building. As soon as the car stopped, Sana flung the door open and sprinted out, barely managing to shout, “Thanks!” at Mina before dashing toward the entrance.

Once inside, she quickly glanced at her phone and saw the time—20 minutes late. “Great,” she muttered under her breath, frustration bubbling up inside her.

Sprinting to the elevator, she pressed the button repeatedly, anxiously tapping her foot as she waited for the doors to open.

As the elevator doors finally slid open, Sana froze for a split second, her heart sinking at the sight of Donghae standing there. Internally, she rolled her eyes, wishing for a moment of peace away from his charming presence.

“Hey there” Donghae greeted her with a bright smile that made Sana’s stomach twist.

“Hi,” she forced a smile back, trying to mask her annoyance. She stepped inside the elevator, but to her surprise, Donghae didn’t get off. Instead, he leaned against the wall, looking relaxed.

“Good morning” he said cheerfully, pressing the button for her floor.

The doors slid shut, and Sana felt her foot begin to tap impatiently against the floor. She could feel Donghae’s eyes on her, and when he turned to look at her, he asked, “How’s everything going?”

“Much better,” Sana replied, trying to keep her tone light.

Donghae nodded, “That’s good to hear” He said and then smirked “So, is Park making you bring her breakfast today?”

Sana felt a grimace form on her lips at the mention of her boss, but she quickly swallowed it down. “No, she’s not,” she said, forcing a smile.

Donghae’s expression brightened. “Seriously? Because I wouldn’t mind if you brought me breakfast too,” he said with a playful grin.

Sana turned to face him, crossing her arms. “Actually, I made cookies for Jihyo as a thank you,” she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

At that, Donghae’s smile faltered slightly, and he cleared his throat, a hint of annoyance creeping into his voice. “Really? Just for her?”

Sana nodded, a smirk playing on her lips. “Yep, Park is incredible with me. I figured it was only fair.”

Donghae’s eyebrows knitted together, clearly not pleased at the idea of Sana showing appreciation to someone else. “I see,” he said, trying to maintain his composure.

The elevator dinged, and Sana felt a rush of relief wash over her. The doors opened, and without sparing a glance back at Donghae, she stepped out, eager to escape the awkward conversation. Momo was right; the guy was definitely strange.

She walked briskly to her desk, where Momo was already seated, her fingers flying across the keyboard. Sana dropped her things onto the surface and turned to Momo. “Has Jihyo arrived yet?”

Momo let out an exaggerated sigh. “I think Jihyo lives here at this point,” she replied, rolling her eyes.

Sana grunted in agreement. “Seriously, my alarm didn't go off. It’s way too late.” She leaned against her desk, crossing her arms as she recalled her earlier encounter. “And I ran into Donghae on the way here.”

Momo’s head snapped up, eyebrows raised. “Donghae?”

Sana nodded, a slight frown on her face. “Yeah.”

Momo grunted, clearly unimpressed. “Should've known. That guy...”

“What about him?” Sana asked, curious.

Momo leaned in, lowering her voice conspiratorially. “He tries to flirt with everything that moves. He tried it with Jihyo, he tried it with me, and now he’s onto you.”

Sana felt a mixture of irritation and amusement. “Yeah, I noticed, but I’m really not… interested.”

Momo nodded, her expression serious. “Good. Because that guy is weird. It’s like he never gives up.”

Sana sighed, rubbing her temples in frustration. “Tell me about it.”

Just then, Momo’s expression brightened as she caught sight of the container in Sana's hands. “Wait, what do you have there?”

“Oh, I brought cookies for Jihyo as a thank you.”

Momo’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Cookies? You made cookies?”

“Yup!” Sana replied, lifting the container slightly. “I thought it would be a nice gesture.”

Momo’s face lit up as she leaned closer, practically bouncing in her seat. “Can I have one?”

Sana chuckled, shaking her head playfully. “Actually, I prepared something else just for you.”

Momo’s smile widened, curiosity piquing. “Really? What is it?”

Sana reached into her pocket and pulled out a small bag filled with little chocolate and caramel balls. “Here”

Momo’s eyes went wide with delight. “You really went all out! Are these homemade?”

Sana nodded enthusiastically. “Yep! My friend helped me prepare them.”

Momo sighed dramatically, clutching her heart. “Please, marry me already”

Sana laughed, her cheeks flushing slightly. “I would, but I think you might have to wait in line.”

Momo grinned, clearly enjoying the banter. Just then, Sana turned to glance at Jihyo’s office door, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. “Do you think I should go in and see if she’s here?”

Momo nodded, her expression reassuring. “Trust me, there’s no way Jihyo will be mad at you if you walk in with that.”

Sana took a deep breath, feeling the weight of Momo’s words. “Alright, I’ll give it a shot.” She sighed, staring at the door for a moment longer before finally mustering the courage to walk. “Here goes nothing.”

This time, she knocked on the door and waited impatiently for Jihyo’s voice to call her in. After what felt like an eternity, she heard Jihyo’s voice from the other side, “Come in!”

Taking a deep breath, Sana opened the door slowly and peeked inside. There was Jihyo, sitting at her desk, looking focused as she worked. Sana let out a quiet sigh of relief, then stepped inside and closed the door behind her.

Jihyo looked up from her work, her expression shifting from concentration to curiosity as she noted Sana’s presence. “Morning” she greeted.

“Good morning” Sana replied, her voice slightly shaky as she approached with hesitant steps. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything important.”

Jihyo shook her head “Not at all, are you feeling better now?”

Sana nodded, her heart racing. “Yes, I am. I really appreciate you being so kind to me.”

Jihyo smiled and she leaned back in her chair. “I’m not a monster, you know. Not like people think I am.”

Sana nodded again, lowering her gaze. “I know. I wanted to thank you for what you did, and I brought you something.”

Jihyo raised an eyebrow, intrigued, as Sana placed the container of cookies on her desk. “I made these,” she said, a slight blush creeping onto her cheeks. “I hope you like them.”

Jihyo paused for a moment, looking at the container of cookies without saying anything. Sana's heart raced as she wondered if she had overstepped her bounds. Just when she thought she had messed up, Jihyo finally smiled, leaning forward to get a better look at the cookies.

“They look really good” Jihyo said, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Sana let out a relieved sigh, her blush deepening. “Yeah, they really are” she replied, her confidence slowly returning. Jihyo nodded appreciatively, her smile warm and inviting.

“Thank you. You really didn’t have to go through the trouble,” Jihyo said, her voice genuine.

“It’s just a small gift,” Sana replied, trying to downplay her nervousness. “I wanted to show my gratitude.”

Jihyo tilted her head, a soft smile still on her lips. “Well, I appreciate it. I’ll make sure to try them,” she assured, her tone encouraging.

Sana nodded, feeling a sense of accomplishment. Without another word, she turned to walk towards the door, her steps still slightly shaky. Inside her mind, she was cursing herself for being so ridiculously nervous.

Just as she reached for the doorknob, Jihyo called out to her again. “Sana”

Sana froze at the sound of her name. It was the first time Jihyo had called her by her name in the workplace, and the moment felt surreal.

Sana turned around, her heart skipping a beat. Jihyo looked... different. She didn’t
seem like the intimidating Jihyo that Sana was used to at work. Instead, she appeared warm, relaxed, almost like the Jihyo who had driven her home a few days ago.

“Y-yes, Miss Park?” Sana stammered, trying to keep her composure.

“Um, I just wanted to say…” Jihyo cleared her throat, her demeanor a bit shy now. “I really appreciate you bringing those cookies. It means a lot.”

Sana nodded “I’m really glad you liked them,” she replied, her nervousness starting to fade.

Jihyo cleared her throat again, her expression shifting slightly. “I just wanted to remind you that you need to catch up on your work,” she said, her tone slightly more serious but still gentle.

“Of course! Don’t worry, I’ll get on it,” Sana assured her, trying to project confidence. “It won’t be a problem.”

Jihyo nodded, her eyes softening. “I know, but there’s something else. Momo is going out to speak with some new investors from another firm today, and I’ll have to leave too. I really don’t want to leave you alone in such a big office because there are certain… people around.”

Sana’s curiosity piqued. “Oh, I understand,” she replied, feeling a bit apprehensive.

Jihyo continued, “I was wondering if you would feel comfortable working with me while I’m out”

“Of course!” Sana exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over. “Just tell me where you’re going, and I’ll follow you.”

Jihyo smiled, relieved. “I can take you with me. We’re just going to my house. I have an office there where we won’t be disturbed.”

Sana felt her face heat up, and she froze for a moment, processing the invitation. “Y-Your house?” she asked, her voice a little higher than normal.

Jihyo nodded, a reassuring smile on her face. “Yes, but if you feel uncomfortable—”

“No!” Sana interrupted, her voice rising in her eagerness. She quickly cleared her throat, trying to regain her composure. “I mean, no, it’s fine! I’ll go. I’ll definitely go!” She cringed a little

Jihyo regarded Sana with a gentle expression. “Are you absolutely sure? You can stay in the office if that’s what you prefer, or I could—”

Sana shook her head emphatically. “No”

“Alright then, it’s settled. We’ll leave in a couple of hours; I have to take care of a few things first.”

Sana nodded enthusiastically. “I’ll wait for you” Without thinking, she turned to leave the room, already imagining what the time at Jihyo's house might be like, the nerves bubbling in her stomach as she stepped out.

Sana walked briskly to her desk, her mind racing with thoughts of the upcoming visit. She let herself drop into the chair, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. Just then, Momo appeared beside her, munching on a snack.

Momo paused mid-bite and turned to Sana, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Hey, how did it go?” she asked, her mouth still full.

Sana stared at Momo, her expression one of disbelief. “You won’t believe it,” she murmured, eyes wide as she processed the moment.

Momo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Did it go that badly?”

Sana shook her head vigorously, still trying to find the right words. “No!” She stood up and took Momo's arm, leaning in closer. “She invited me… to her house.”

Momo blinked in surprise, her mouth dropping open. “Wait, what? Can you repeat that?”

Sana took a breath, her heart racing as she said it again. “Jihyo invited me to her house.”

Momo’s eyes widened, and she looked momentarily stunned. “Oh, I really thought she fired you, you scared me.” She said “She does that a lot so you better get used to it”

Sana’s curiosity peaked. “She does that a lot? ”

Momo nodded “Yeah, she feels more comfortable that way, not leaving us here alone, especially with…the people around here”

“What do you mean by that?”

Momo shrugged slightly, her expression turning serious. “Well, this office isn’t exactly dominated by women. There are very few of us here, and with Jihyo being the leader of the firm, a lot of the guys tend to… say things or try to act in certain ways” Momo said, her tone earnest. “I think it’s her way of making sure we’re safe and comfortable”

Sana turned to glance at Jihyo’s office door, a soft sigh escaping her lips. “I guess I never really thought about it that way,” she admitted. “It makes sense, though. She really does care.”

“I told you she isn’t some heartless monster, she’s really…sweet”

Sana nodded, a smile creeping onto her face. “Well so far, she’s done a great job at that.”

After that, the conversation drifted off, and Sana found herself trying to focus on her work. But her mind kept wandering, despite her efforts. How could she be this nervous? It was just a visit to Jihyo's house. They would work on a couple of things, and then she would head home. There was no need to feel so anxious; it was just work. She would be with Jihyo for work, nothing more.

Sana sighed softly, a mix of excitement and apprehension swirling within her. Would Tzuyu be there? The thought of seeing the girl again brought a smile to her face.

She took a deep breath, attempting to push the thoughts away. Concentrate, Sana. Just focus on your tasks.

But no matter how hard she tried, her mind kept drifting back to her.

It felt like a whirlwind of emotions, and she couldn’t quite make sense of it all.

Suddenly, the sound of clicking heels echoed in the office, but Sana was so lost in her thoughts that she didn’t register it at first. It wasn’t until her ears cleared, and she looked up that she saw Jihyo standing in front of her, her expression unreadable.

Sana blinked in surprise, momentarily taken aback. “Oh! Miss Park!” she exclaimed, her heart racing.

“I’m ready to go,” Jihyo said, her tone steady as she looked at Sana.

Nodding quickly, Sana stood up from her seat without saying a word. Jihyo turned to Momo, her voice clear. “We’re leaving now. Please take care.”

Momo smiled and nodded. “Got it, Hyo”

As Sana and Jihyo began to walk out of the office, Sana remained quiet, her thoughts still swirling. She could feel Jihyo glancing at her from time to time, but the silence hung comfortably between them.

Jihyo, on the other hand, felt a flutter of nerves in her stomach that she couldn't quite explain. Why was she feeling this way? It was just Sana. Sure, Sana was cute—Jihyo had noticed that from the first time she saw her. And Sana was kind; Tzuyu absolutely adored her, which only added to her charm.

But there was something about Sana that brought a sense of relief to Jihyo, a feeling she hadn't experienced in years. If she was being honest with herself, a part of her wanted to keep Sana close, to know her better. What had happened with Donghae just two days ago lingered in her mind.

She had to take care of the girl

And yet, she realized she didn't know much about Sana on a personal level. Professionally, Jihyo had read Sana's file a thousand times; it was clear that she was an excellent worker. But beyond that? What did she really know about Sana as a person?

All she could gather was that Sana was from Japan, had a friend named Mina, and lived in a small apartment with her. In contrast, Sana seemed to know more about Jihyo. Hell, she had even met Tzuyu—though that encounter had been accidental, it still made Jihyo feel a twinge of jealousy.

Jihyo stole a quick glance at the girl and sighed

She also knew that Sana was incredible—she was charming, sweet, and like a small splash of pink in Jihyo's otherwise gray world. Jihyo cleared her throat, her heart racing as she took a deep breath. She had decided to practice a little, knowing that Sana seemed a bit nervous around her, even if she didn't show it too much.

Jihyo was aware of how people perceived her, and she was determined to show Sana that she was trustworthy, that she was good. She didn't know why or how, but she felt an undeniable urge to make it clear. Just then, Sana turned to look at her, her expression expectant.

“Did you go to the doctor about your cold?” Jihyo asked, her voice steady as she tried to hide the flutter of nerves.

Sana nodded, her eyes brightening. “Yeah, I did! I just need to rest like you told me. Thank you for giving me time to recover,” she replied, her sincerity evident.

Jihyo smiled. “You don’t have to thank me. Just promise me you won't come back to work almost fainting again,” she said

Sana made a mock offended face, crossing her arms. “I wasn’t almost fainting” she protested.

Jihyo couldn't help but smile openly, feeling a bit foolish for breaking her own rules. It was as if all the carefully constructed walls she had built around herself were useless when it came to Sana. The way she made her feel was invigorating yet terrifying.

“I just want to make sure you're okay,” Jihyo admitted, her voice lowering slightly, as if sharing a secret. She felt a rush of warmth as she watched Sana's expression soften, the corners of her mouth lifting into a gentle smile.

“Thank you,” Sana said softly, and Jihyo merely nodded, turning her gaze away quickly. The rest of the elevator ride was quick and silent, the air thick with an unspoken understanding between them.

Finally, the elevator doors opened, and Jihyo stepped out, holding the door for Sana to exit first. They walked through the parking lot, the sound of their footsteps echoing lightly against the pavement. Arriving at Jihyo's car, she quickly unlocked it and they both climbed in. As she turned the ignition, the engine roared to life, and Jihyo felt a flutter of anticipation.

Sana fastened her seatbelt, the click echoing in the small space. Once everything was secure, Jihyo began to drive. The initial stretch of the road was quiet, with only the sound of the radio filling the air between them. Sana gazed out the window, lost in thought, while Jihyo found herself tapping her fingers to the rhythm of the song playing.

For some reason, it felt comfortable. Jihyo was nervous, yes, but she didn’t feel the urgency to fill the silence with words, not like before. It was a peaceful silence, and she didn’t feel pressured to say something. It was a relief, really; her mind was too jumbled to think of anything worthwhile to say anyway.

After a while, it was Sana who broke the silence.

”I love this song”

Jihyo took a moment to respond, glancing briefly at Sana before focusing back on the road. “Actually, I went to a concert of this band some time ago,” she replied, a hint of pride in her voice.

Sana turned to look at her, surprise evident in her eyes. “Are you serious?”

Jihyo nodded, a smile creeping onto her lips. “Yeah, when I was in college.”

Sana's eyes widened, and her smile grew even broader. “That’s incredible! I would have given anything to go too.”

Just as Jihyo was about to ask why Sana hadn’t gone, a thought struck her. Sana was seven years younger than her, so when Jihyo was in university, Sana was likely still playing with dolls. The realization made her bite her lip to suppress a chuckle. Instead, she said, “That band is really good. I used to have a collection of their albums with a friend.”

Sana beamed at her. “I didn’t take you for that kind of person,” she teased playfully.

Jihyo shrugged, a hint of bashfulness creeping into her demeanor. “I guess I was different back then.”

Sana smiled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “I can’t imagine you like that, like going to concerts, collecting things and stuff” she said, tilting her head.

Jihyo laughed lightly. “I’m not that old, you know.”

Sana looked at her with a playful grin. “I know that”

Jihyo chuckled again. “So, how were you in college?” she asked, genuinely curious.

Sana shrugged, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. “Honestly, it hasn’t been that long since I graduated. I feel like I’ve always been the same person. I don’t think I’m going to change much.”

Jihyo nodded, her gaze shifting to the road as she relaxed more into her seat. She opted to use just one hand to steer the car, feeling a sense of ease in the conversation. “That’s interesting,” she said. “I wonder if I’ve changed that much.”

Sana glanced at her, curiosity evident. “What happened to your collection?” she asked.

Jihyo didn’t turn to look at Sana; her focus remained on the road ahead. She tensed slightly, feeling her jaw clench as she considered the question. After a moment of silence, she replied, her tone serious, “I don’t know.” The weight of her words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken truths.

Deep down, Jihyo knew what had happened. The collection had once been her pride, a reflection of her passions and memories. But it had all slipped away, lost just like Seungwan—another piece of her life that had vanished without a trace. And now, nothing felt as important as it once had.

Sana seemed to pick up on the change in Jihyo’s demeanor. She sighed softly, her expression shifting to one of understanding. Without another word, she turned her gaze to the window, watching the scenery blur by, lost in her thoughts.

Jihyo mentally cursed herself for allowing the conversation to dip into such a heavy place. She wished she could take back the moment, but there was no point in forcing a return to lightheartedness. Instead, she remained silent, allowing the comfortable quiet to settle between them.

As they approached Jihyo’s house, she slowed the car and finally came to a stop. “We’re here,” she announced, breaking the silence.

Sana unbuckled her seatbelt and stepped out of the car without truly looking at the house, her mind still swirling with thoughts. Jihyo followed suit, walking to Sana’s side, “Come on, just follow me.”

Sana nodded absentmindedly, finally lifting her gaze to take in the sight before her. Her mouth fell open in surprise. She had known Jihyo was wealthy, but she hadn’t expected this. The house was enormous, beautifully designed, and to Sana, it resembled a mansion.

Noticing that Sana had stopped in her tracks, Jihyo turned around and smiled a little at the look of astonishment on the girl’s face. “What’s wrong?” she asked, curiosity piqued.

Sana blinked, still taken aback as she replied, “You live in a mansion”

Jihyo chuckled softly, shaking her head. “It’s really not a mansion,” she said.

Sana shook her head, trying to shake off her surprise. “It totally is!” she exclaimed, finally breaking from her astonishment and taking a few steps forward to join Jihyo.

Jihyo simply smiled and turned back to walk toward the entrance. She took a couple of steps and reached the door, opening it wide. “After you,” she said, gesturing for Sana to go in first.

Sana murmured a small "thank you" as she stepped inside, her eyes wide with curiosity. Jihyo followed and gently closed the door behind her. She turned to Sana and said, “Come.”

Sana nodded silently, still in awe. The house seemed even larger from the inside. She glanced around, taking in the spacious living room, the grand dining area, and the scattered toys strewn about, a sign of life and warmth.

As she looked around, Sana noticed the photos adorning the walls. Most of them featured Jihyo and another girl, Tzuyu. They were smiling brightly at the camera, captured in moments of joy at the park, with one photo showing Tzuyu as a baby, her innocent smile making Sana grin as well.

But then something caught her attention. Among the usual cheerful pictures was one with Jihyo and a girl she didn’t recognize. The girl was beautiful, with a radiant smile, and she was hugging Jihyo tightly, who wore an equally bright smile with her eyes closed in bliss. Sana felt a warmth in her chest; Jihyo looked genuinely happy in that moment.

As Sana continued to explore the walls, soon, something else caught her attention. Among all the joyful images, there wasn’t a single photo of Jihyo’s husband. There were no signs anywhere in the house that indicated anyone else lived there besides Jihyo and Tzuyu.

Sana bit her lip, a wave of curiosity washing over her. She wanted to ask, but she quickly dismissed the thought. It was clearly a dangerous question to pose, one that could lead to an definite disaster. Yet, the curiosity nagged at her, not just for the sake of knowing but perhaps also because of the undeniable crush she had on Jihyo.

With a small shake of her head, Sana decided to push her thoughts aside, focusing on the present moment instead.

She followed Jihyo as she walked further into the house, entering a spacious room that turned out to be an office. The large window opened up to a beautiful view of the patio, and Sana smiled again. No matter how much Jihyo insisted that it wasn’t a mansion, Sana knew better. She would have to sell everything she owned and probably dip into Mina’s inheritance just to think about living in a place like this.

Jihyo turned to look at Sana, her expression warm. “Make yourself comfortable,” she said, gesturing to the chairs in the center of the room.

Without thinking twice, Sana complied and took a seat in one of the chairs, sinking into its plush comfort. Jihyo then added, “I’ll grab a couple of things. Would you like something to drink?”

Sana shook her head, a smile on her face. “No, it’s okay. You don’t have to bother,” she replied, wanting to downplay her presence and not make Jihyo feel like she was imposing.

“Are you sure?” Jihyo asked, her brow slightly raised, but she seemed to take Sana’s response in stride. “Alright, just sit tight. I’ll be right back.”

As Jihyo walked out of the room, Sana’s mind began to wander again, her thoughts circling back to the photos.

She looked around the office, taking in the details. Here, too, there were no pictures of Jihyo’s husband. The absence felt heavy in the air, and Sana bit her lip, a knot forming in her stomach. It was clear that Jihyo and her husband were in a…complicated situation.

From what Sana had overheard in Jihyo's office, it seemed like there were problems. She also noticed that even now, Jihyo was not wearing her wedding ring. Sana wasn’t an expert, but she assumed that cleaning a ring wouldn’t take that long.

Letting out a sigh, Sana began to play with her fingers, trying to push aside thoughts of Jihyo’s husband and instead they went to the house.

The house was enormous, yes, but at the same time, even if it was Sana saying it herself, there was a warmth that enveloped the space.

Sana leaned back in her chair, glancing around the place. It felt like a safe space, a glimpse into Jihyo’s world, and she wanted to know every detail.

Just then, she heard footsteps approaching, and her heart fluttered with anticipation.

The door swung open, and Jihyo entered the office, closing the door behind her with a soft click. She looked composed and ready for work as she took a seat in the chair next to Sana. “Sorry for the wait. I had to grab some documents that I need you to review,” Jihyo said.

Sana nodded, “No problem at all,” she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

“And also,” Jihyo continued, her expression turning slightly more serious, “we need to start drafting some small adjustments for other cases. There’s a lot to cover, but I think we can manage it together.”

“Of course,” she said, her voice gaining confidence as she pushed her earlier thoughts aside. “Let’s get to work”

—

Sana worked diligently for just over two hours, her determination unwavering as she tried to focus on the tasks at hand. But despite her best efforts, her concentration began to wane. It wasn't entirely her fault; there was something about Jihyo that distracted her, and for some reason, she felt an urge to blame Jihyo for it.

Letting out a quiet sigh, Sana muttered a curse under her breath. They remained in the same positions, with Jihyo seated next to her, her legs crossed elegantly. A notebook rested in her hands, and her hair was pulled back into a messy ponytail, allowing stray strands to fall softly across her face. The glasses perched on her nose added an air of studiousness as she read intently.

Sana sighed. The frustration bubbling within her. It truly wasn’t Jihyo's fault that she couldn’t concentrate on work, especially when her mind was more preoccupied with the captivating presence beside her. The way Jihyo’s brow furrowed in concentration, the slight tilt of her head as she flipped through pages, all of it sent Sana's thoughts spiraling.

And after all, this wasn’t the first time she found herself alone with a beautiful woman. It wasn’t even the first time she had spent time alone with Jihyo. Yet, there was something about this moment that was driving her absolutely crazy.

It could have been the way Jihyo pressed her lips together in concentration or how she occasionally removed her glasses to nibble on the arms, deep in thought.

Or perhaps it was the way Jihyo’s fingers danced over the pen in her hand, absentmindedly twirling it as if it were a part of her very being. And then there was the way Jihyo’s skirt had hiked up just enough to reveal more of her legs, which made Sana’s heart race in a way that felt entirely unwelcome.

Sana averted her gaze, closing her eyes tightly and counting to ten in her mind. She cursed herself for being so distracted, desperately trying to think of anything other than Jihyo. Taxes, economic crisis, kittens, Mina after losing her family in The Sims—anything but the woman seated so close to her.

“Come on, Sana. Focus,” she whispered under her breath, shaking her head as if to clear the thoughts swirling in her mind.

But no matter how hard she tried, images of Jihyo kept creeping in. The way her eyes sparkled with determination, the soft curve of her smile, and the warmth radiating from her presence were hard to ignore.

“Are you okay?” Jihyo asked suddenly, breaking the spell that had ensnared Sana. Her voice was soft, laced with concern, and Sana felt her heart skip a beat.

“Yeah, I’m fine!” Sana replied a bit too quickly, the words tumbling out before she could catch them. She forced a smile, hoping it looked genuine. “Just… you know, thinking about can i make this proposal work”

Jihyo raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. “Let me see,” She replied, leaning closer.

Sana held her breath as Jihyo leaned in so closely that their heads brushed against one another. The intoxicating scent of Jihyo’s perfume enveloped her, and for a fleeting moment, everything else faded away. Jihyo didn’t seem to notice how close they were, leaning in even further, and Sana felt her heart race. This was too much; she was on the verge of losing composure entirely.

With a trembling exhale, Sana reminded herself to breathe. If Jihyo furrowed her brow and asked for a thorough read of the proposal again, she would surely lose her mind. But thankfully, Jihyo simply took the document from Sana’s hands, pulling back slightly to begin leafing through the pages.

Sana took the opportunity to inhale deeply and try to regain her composure. “I think I could employ a new method,” she offered, her voice steadier now. “We don’t have to take it to court. We can settle this with a fair deal.”

Jihyo paused, her focus shifting from the document to Sana, her expression thoughtful. “That could actually work,” she said slowly, resuming her reading. “Let me think about it for a moment.”

Sana nodded, feeling a wave of relief wash over her. As Jihyo continued to read, she felt the tension ease between them, even if the fluttering in her stomach persisted. “I think it could save us a lot of time and effort,” Sana added, trying to keep the conversation light while still focused on their work.

“Right,” Jihyo replied, her brow furrowing slightly. “This does have potential. I’ll need to review some of the clauses more closely, though.”

“Of course,” Sana agreed, “Take your time. I’m sure we can come up with something that works.”

As Jihyo continued to read, Sana turned back to her own notepad, attempting to focus on her notes.

A few minutes passed, and Jihyo finally set the documents down on the table. “I’ll have Momo take care of this,” she said decisively. “But you were right, Sana.”

Sana felt a small smile tug at her lips, a rush of warmth flooding her cheeks. She quickly looked down to hide her reaction, the momentary silence wrapping around them like a cozy blanket. Jihyo began taking notes, her pen moving swiftly across the page.

“Hey…” Sana said “How long have you been working with Momo?” Sana asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she kept her gaze fixed on her own work, trying to maintain a casual tone.

Jihyo paused for a moment, considering the question. “A few years now,” she replied thoughtfully. “Momo came in as an intern, like you, and eventually, she just… stayed.”

“She’s really great, isn’t she?”

Jihyo offered a slight smile. “Yeah, she really is. She’s quite the character.”

Sana nodded. “A little… talkative, but she’s a lot of fun.”

Jihyo chuckled softly, agreeing, “She really is but, she wasn’t always like this, you know?.”

Sana looked up, surprised. “Really?”

Jihyo met Sana’s gaze, a playful glint in her eyes. “Before, she was… well, very tense. She didn’t open up much at all.”

Sana raised her eyebrows in disbelief, “I can’t imagine that.”

Jihyo smiled, reminiscing. “I think she’s grown a lot since then. Or maybe she just doesn’t fear me like she used to.”

Sana couldn’t help but smile at the thought. “Is that something you do?”

Jihyo looked at her, a hint of confusion crossing her face. “What?”

Sana shrugged, “Is making people fear you part of your job description or something?”

Jihyo shifted in her chair, her playful expression fading slightly as she stopped fiddling with the pencil between her fingers. “Maybe… sometimes it feels like it’s easier that way,” she said slowly.

Sana watched her intently, her heart racing a little. Taking a breath to steady herself, she clenched her fists gently to combat the nervous energy bubbling within her. “But I don’t fear you,” she said, her voice steady, but a hint of vulnerability crept in.

As soon as the declaration left her lips, Sana felt a wave of nervousness wash over her. She was prepared to apologize if she needed to, especially when Jihyo turned to face her, a peculiar expression settling on her features. It wasn’t anger, and it wasn’t confusion either—Sana knew that much. But still, she couldn’t quite decipher what it was.

After a moment, Jihyo cleared her throat and broke the silence. “That’s good to hear, then. I wouldn’t want you to.”

Sana let out a sigh of relief, a weight lifting off her shoulders. She really needed to learn to keep her thoughts to herself sometimes.

Jihyo smiled softly, glancing at the clock on the wall. “I think it’s time for a break,” she said, her tone lightening the mood.

Sana nodded, even though she wasn’t particularly tired. She hadn’t done much, but the idea of stopping felt refreshing. As Jihyo stood up from her chair, she began to walk toward the door, and Sana remained seated, unsure of what to do next.

Just before Jihyo stepped outside, she turned back over her shoulder and asked, “Aren’t you coming?”

Sana blinked, caught off guard. “Oh! Um, yeah—sure!” She quickly got up, a smile spreading across her face as she hurried to follow Jihyo down the hallway.

They made their way to the kitchen, and once inside, Jihyo moved around the space, her movements confident and fluid. Sana stood awkwardly at the entrance, unsure of where to position herself. She watched as Jihyo opened cabinets, rummaging through them with a soft sigh.

Sana tried to focus on anything other than the moment—she fiddled with her fingers, glancing at the intriguing stain on the wall instead of looking directly at Jihyo. The silence seemed to stretch, filled with the quiet sounds of cabinet doors creaking and Jihyo's soft movements.

Finally, Jihyo turned to face her, an eyebrow raised. “Are you sure I can’t offer you something to drink?”

Sana met her gaze and considered for a moment before replying, “A little water would be fine.”

Jihyo nodded, moving to the sink to fill a glass. “Coming right up.” She poured a glass for herself as well, and then pulled up a stool next to Sana before taking a seat.

Feeling a little more at ease, Sana opted to join her, sitting down beside Jihyo. An awkward silence settled between them as they both took a sip of water. Jihyo broke it, her voice slow and thoughtful. “I’d offer you something to eat, but there’s really nothing here that isn’t cooked.”

“Oh, don’t worry about it. It’s not necessary,” Sana replied quickly, waving her hand dismissively.

Jihyo tilted her head slightly, a genuine look on her face. “Still, you’re a guest. I should at least offer something.”

Sana smiled softly, appreciating the sentiment. “It’s really okay”

The silence returned, and soon enough, Sana found herself finishing her water. She sighed lightly, breaking the quiet again. “So, are you a good cook?”

Jihyo chuckled softly, shaking her head. “Not really. I can make a couple of things, but I’m only… decent at best.”

Sana laughed, the sound light and melodic. “I’m sure your food is better than you think.”

Jihyo grinned, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “What about you? Are you a good cook?”

“Yes” Sana replied. “I can cook a lot of things”

Jihyo raised an eyebrow playfully. “Oh, like the cookies?”

Sana nodded eagerly. “Yes, but that’s just a small part of what I know”

“How did you learn?” Jihyo asked, curious.

Sana shrugged, a smile still lingering on her face. “From my grandparents, my friends... but I’ve always loved it. It’s relaxing.”

Jihyo looked at Sana thoughtfully. “Wait here,” she said suddenly, standing up from her seat. She walked quickly to another place, leaving Sana a bit perplexed but she waited patiently. Before Sana knew it, Jihyo returned, the small container of cookies in her hand.

Jihyo placed the cookies on the countertop and resumed her seat, carefully opening the packaging. “I hope these are the best cookies in all of Korea,” she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Sana looked a bit surprised but couldn’t help but smile. “I hope you don’t really have those high expectations,” she teased.

Jihyo smiled, picking up one of the cookies. She glanced at Sana expectantly. “Aren’t you going to try one?”

Sana was about to decline, but the sight of Jihyo’s eager expression, those big eyes looking at her, was enough to make her relent. Carefully, she took one of the cookies as well.

Jihyo beamed, satisfied, and slowly brought the cookie to her mouth. She opened her lips and took a bite. Sana mirrored her actions, watching intently as Jihyo chewed with an intense focus, her expression a mix of concentration and delight, almost cinematic.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Jihyo swallowed, turned to face Sana, and seriously said, “These are the best cookies I’ve ever eaten in my life.”

Sana’s eyes widened in disbelief, but a smile crept onto her face. “Really?” she asked.

“Yes” Jihyo said, still savoring the taste. “You really have to teach me how to make these”

Sana smiled brightly, “Anytime you want”

Jihyo was about to respond, but before she could, the doorbell rang, interrupting their moment. Jihyo glanced at her watch quickly, then sighed. “I’m so sorry, I have to attend to this,” she said, leaving the rest of the cookie in the container.

Sana nodded, watching Jihyo hurry towards the front door. Jihyo opened it swiftly, and without warning, a pair of arms wrapped around her. “Mommy!” Tzuyu’s excited voice rang out.

Jihyo smiled widely, lifting Tzuyu into her arms. “Hey there, sweetheart” she greeted warmly.

Almost immediately after, another small voice called out, and Chaeyoung rushed into Jihyo’s embrace as well. “Unnie!”

Jihyo beamed at Chaeyoung, holding her close. “Hi, Chaengie” She felt her heart swell seeing both girls together.

Finally, Jihyo turned to see Nayeon standing nearby, a bright smile on her face. “Nayeon unnie” she said.

“Just in time” Nayeon replied cheerfully, her eyes sparkling with happiness.

“Thank you for bringing Tzuyu,” Jihyo said, her voice laced with gratitude.

“It’s no problem at all,” Nayeon assured her, before looking down at Chaeyoung. “You’re going to stay with Jihyo unnie and Tzuyu today, so be good, okay?”

Chaeyoung nodded eagerly, snuggling closer to Jihyo. “I will!”

Nayeon sighed softly, her expression tender. “Thank you for taking care of her,” she added, sincerity in her voice.

“It’s nothing” Jihyo responded.

Nayeon gave a satisfied nod. “I’ll come by for Chaeyoung in the morning,” she said, glancing between the three of them.

Jihyo nodded and replied, “Have fun with Jeongyeon.”

Nayeon laughed lightly, her eyes twinkling. “Thanks”

As Nayeon turned to leave, Jihyo knelt down to Chaeyoung’s level. “Say goodbye to your mommy,” she said gently.

Chaeyoung looked up at Jihyo, then back at Nayeon. “Bye, Mommy!” she called out, waving enthusiastically.

“Bye, baby! Be good!” Nayeon waved back.

Jihyo let out a soft sigh as she watched Nayeon drive away. If she was being honest, Nayeon was incredible. She had come to know her simply as Chaeyoung’s other mother, but every time they spoke, it was filled with laughter. Nayeon was straightforward, cheerful, and an amazing mother, just like Jeongyeon. Jihyo smiled faintly at the thought, closing the door behind her as she guided the two girls through the living room.

“So, how was school today?” Jihyo asked, her voice warm and inviting.

Tzuyu chimed in first, her voice animated. “Chaeyoung got into a fight with a boy!”

“That's not true!” Chaeyoung protested immediately, crossing her arms defiantly.

Jihyo watched as the two began to bicker playfully, a smile creeping onto her face. Seeing Tzuyu so happy was… more than she could ask for.

“Okay, okay! How about you both go to Tzuyu’s room and change into something comfy, then we can sit down to do your homework?” Jihyo suggested, trying to steer the conversation back on track.

Both girls nodded eagerly, intertwining their fingers as they started to walk hand in hand towards Tzuyu’s room.

Suddenly, Tzuyu stopped in her tracks, her eyes wide with surprise. “Wait!” she exclaimed, her expression shifting to one of pure excitement.

Before Jihyo could ask what was wrong, Tzuyu released Chaeyoung’s hand and dashed off towards the kitchen. “Sana!” she shouted at the top of her lungs, her voice echoing through the house.

Jihyo sighed softly and leaned down slightly, encouraging Chaeyoung to follow her. “Come on, sweetheart. Let’s go see what Tzuyu is up to,” she said, taking Chaeyoung’s hand as they walked towards the stairs.

As they passed by the kitchen, Jihyo caught sight of Tzuyu bouncing up and down on Sana’s lap. Sana was laughing heartily, trying to hold Tzuyu still while engaging in animated conversation with her. Jihyo had to suppress a smile at the sight; it was pure joy.

Just then, Tzuyu turned her head to look at Jihyo, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Look, it’s my friend Sana!” she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with happiness.

“Yes, I can see that,” Jihyo replied.

Tzuyu then turned back to Sana, her curiosity piqued. “What are you doing here?” she asked.

Sana smiled brightly, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “Your mom invited me” she said cheerfully.

Tzuyu’s expression shifted to one of betrayal as she glanced back at Jihyo. “You invited her without telling me! You wanted her all for yourself?!”

Jihyo raised her hands in defense, shaking her head in surprise. “No, no! I just—”

Before Jihyo could say more, Sana interjected, waving her hands dismissively. “Your mom invited me for work, Tzuyunnie”

Tzuyu’s expression softened slightly as she processed the information. “Really?”

Sana nodded “Yes”

“So, are you done with work?”

Sana shook her head, an Tzuyu had already a pout forming on her lips. “I wanted to play with you!”

At that moment, Sana turned her attention to Chaeyoung, flashing her a bright smile. However, Chaeyoung simply looked at her, not returning the gesture.

Tzuyu noticed the exchange and quickly turned back to Sana, her voice full of pride. “This is Chaeyoung, my other friend”

Sana smiled warmly and waved at the little girl. “Hi, Chae. It’s so nice to meet you”

Chaeyoung hesitantly waved her hand in response, still a bit shy.

Finally, Jihyo intervened, sensing the need to redirect the energy in the room. “Alright, how about you two go change and get ready? We can’t have you two running around in your clothes from earlier.”

Tzuyu nodded eagerly, hopping off Sana’s lap. She walked over to Chaeyoung, taking her small hand in hers. “Come on, let’s go!”

As the two girls started to ascend the stairs, Jihyo let out a soft sigh, watching them with a mix of affection and exasperation. She then turned to Sana, her expression apologetic. “I’m sorry about that. I forgot I had to take care of the two of them today”

Sana chuckled, waving off Jihyo’s concern. “Don’t worry about it”

Jihyo sighed again, glancing toward the stairs. “Well, then I think it’s time to get back to work.”

Sana nodded, standing up from her seat. Jihyo gave her a nervous smile, and they both walked toward the office.

Sana entered first, followed closely by Jihyo, who then shut the door behind them. As Sana settled into her chair, she noticed that, for some reason, she felt more at ease now. Perhaps it was Tzuyu; the child had a calming presence that made everything feel less intimidating. Being in Jihyo’s house still felt daunting, but it was manageable with Tzuyu around.

Finally, Jihyo cleared her throat, breaking the comfortable silence. She handed Sana a couple more items. “Here are a few things we need to go over.”

Sana accepted the papers with a deep breath, knowing it was time to focus on work. “Got it,” she replied, exhaling softly.

Jihyo watched as Sana adjusted her posture, readying herself to dive into the tasks at hand. “If you have any questions, just let me know,” Jihyo said.

“I will, thank you.”

The next few hours passed quickly, and Sana, thanks to all the gods, managed to concentrate. She exchanged a few words with Jihyo, but it was different now; everything felt professional. She asked Jihyo a couple of questions, re-reading documents as they worked together. Jihyo also chimed in with her thoughts from time to time, and before they knew it, the sun was setting outside the window.

Sana glanced at the clock and realized it was getting late—not too late, but still, there were three hours left to finish. She sighed, leaving the papers on the table in front of her, stretching a little. Jihyo noticed, and Sana could see the same tired expression mirrored on her face.

Jihyo took off her glasses and tossed them onto the table. They didn’t say anything, but the silence was broken when Sana’s stomach growled loudly. Sana blushed a little as Jihyo turned to look at her. Slowly, Jihyo stood up, brushing her skirt slightly as she walked toward the door.

After opening it, she turned back to Sana and asked hesitantly, “Maybe…it would be a good idea to put your culinary skills to the test now?”

Sana turned to look at her, confused at first, but upon seeing Jihyo’s expression, she understood. A weak smile crept across her face as she replied, “I don’t want to impose too much.”

“No, it’s no problem, the kitchen could use it,” Jihyo insisted. “Besides, I think Tzuyu really wants to see you.”

“Fine” Sana sighed again, standing up and walking over to Jihyo. “But only on the condition that you all help me, too.”

Jihyo looked at her intently and nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. “Then it seems like you’re the boss now.”

“Alright, let’s do this”

They both stepped out of the office, and as they entered the main room, Tzuyu and Chaeyoung looked up from where they were sitting. Tzuyu immediately jumped up and rushed towards Sana. “Are you leaving already?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Sana leaned in slightly and replied, “Actually, your mom envited me to eat.”

Tzuyu squealed with excitement, bouncing on her feet. “Yay! That’s amazing!”

Sana stood up straight and turned to Jihyo “Come on”

Once inside the kitchen, Sana asked, “What kind of food do you want?”

Jihyo shrugged, “Anything is fine. I don’t eat much anyway.”

Sana nodded, contemplating. “How about a stir-fry? We could use some chicken, vegetables, and maybe some rice?”

Jihyo nodded. “Okay”

Turning to Tzuyu and Chaeyoung, Jihyo said, “You two should go wash your hands because today, everyone will help in the kitchen”

Both girls nodded eagerly and dashed off to wash their hands, the excitement palpable in the air.

Once they were back, Jihyo turned to Sana and said, “Alright, you’re in charge. What do we do first?”

Sana smiled a little, feeling the weight of the moment. “First, we need to gather all the ingredients. Can you help me with that?”

Jihyo nodded and started searching the pantry and refrigerator. Before Sana knew it, the kitchen was alive with activity. Tzuyu and Chaeyoung climbed onto a small bench, cleaning some of the vegetables, while Jihyo was right beside them, chopping onions and bell peppers with precision.

Sana stood at the stove, a delicate smile on her face as she watched the girls work together. Jihyo seemed relaxed, laughing occasionally at something Tzuyu said, who was cracking jokes while rinsing the veggies. Chaeyoung’s occasional giggles added to the atmosphere.

—

Before they knew it, the girls had finished preparing the meal and were now seated at the table. Jihyo and Sana helped serve the plates, and finally, they all sat down to eat. Tzuyu took the first bite and smiled widely, exclaiming, “This is really delicious!”

Sana beamed at the compliment and replied, “It is! My mom taught me how to make this dish.”

Tzuyu nodded enthusiastically, “Your mom is really good then”

The dinner was filled with laughter and chatter but Jihyo didn’t speak much; she was quiet, perhaps unsure of what to say. But her gaze was soft and observant, as if she were lost in thought yet fully present, enjoying every moment.

She couldn’t remember the last time she had felt this way—so happy, so relaxed, so alive in her own home. She attributed much of this ease to Tzuyu and little Chaengie, but deep down, she knew it also had to do with Sana. The way Sana’s eyes crinkled when she laughed at Tzuyu’s jokes, the way she listened intently whenever Chaeyoung had something to say, and even how she tilted her head slightly whenever Jihyo spoke, all added to the serene ambiance.

It was simply Sana—her presence alone made everything feel lighter.

Jihyo couldn’t even explain it, but everything had changed since she invited Sana over, since they spent time together cooking. Usually, it would take her much longer to just… be herself, to let all those walls down. She sighed internally; it hadn’t even been this easy with Momo, and she cared deeply for her. But Sana... Sana was something else.

Finally, they finished eating, and Jihyo hadn’t even realized how much time had passed. She sighed softly and leaned a little towards Tzuyu and Chaeyoung, telling them it was time to take their plates to the kitchen. The two girls nodded enthusiastically, and soon it was just Jihyo and Sana left sitting at the table.

Sana smiled at Jihyo, her expression warm and inviting. “Did you like the food?” she asked softly, almost shyly.

Jihyo nodded, feeling a flutter in her chest. “I’m sorry I didn’t eat more. I usually don’t,” she admitted, her voice genuine.

Sana waved her hand dismissively. “Don’t worry about it. At least I had the chance to show off my cooking skills,” she replied with a playful grin.

Jihyo couldn’t help but chuckle at that, a genuine laugh that felt good to let out. She stood up from her chair, taking her plate and Sana’s with her but Sana tried to protest, “Oh, no, I can—”

But Jihyo shook her head firmly. “I’ll take care of the dishes. You can go back to the office or… play a little with Tzuyu and Chaeyoung.”

Sana looked at her intensely, starting to say, “Miss Park—”

Jihyo interrupted, shaking her head. “Are you really going to call me that in my own home?”

Sana made a funny face before correcting herself, “Okay, okay, Jihyo! I appreciate what you’ve done so much, but I don’t want to keep imposing”

“You’re my guest, Sana,” Jihyo said with a reassuring smile. “And I think you already surpassed me on the scale of favoritism with those two.”

“Still,” Sana replied, a hint of worry in her voice. “I don’t want to overstay my welcome.”

“Look, if you really don’t want to impose, I’ll give you something to work on,” Jihyo suggested, her tone light.

“Anything”

“Play with those two,” Jihyo said, pointing toward the living room. “Just while I do the dishes.”

Sana opened her mouth to protest but then sighed in resignation, realizing Jihyo wouldn’t budge. “Alright, you win,” she said with a playful roll of her eyes.

Jihyo smiled triumphantly and headed toward the kitchen, feeling a sense of satisfaction at having settled the matter. As Sana walked toward the living room, Jihyo could hear the faint sounds of laughter and excitement from Tzuyu and Chaeyoung.

—

Tzuyu shouted from the floor, excitedly showing Sana a couple of her toys. Sana leaned down, her face lighting up as she picked up one of the dolls Tzuyu was holding. “Wow, this is cute” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling.

Chaeyoung, from her spot, chimed in, “Are you going to play with us, Miss Sana?”

Sana nodded enthusiastically and slowly sat down on the floor. “Only if you both want to,” she said, her voice warm.

Both girls beamed at her, and in an instant, they began playing, their laughter filling the room. Sana was a bit unsure of what to do, as she rarely interacted with children, but she found herself getting lost in the joy of their playtime.

At one point, little Chaeyoung scooted closer to her, showing her how to make the dolls dance. Sana couldn’t help but giggle as she mimicked the movements, genuinely enjoying herself. Time seemed to fly by, and before she knew it, it felt like only a few minutes had passed.

Eventually, Jihyo emerged from the kitchen, a smile on her face as she saw the delightful scene. She took a seat on the couch, almost right next to Sana.

“Are you having fun?” Jihyo asked.

Both girls nodded vigorously, their smiles radiant.

Jihyo then looked at Sana, giving her a knowing glance and a subtle gesture to join her on the couch. Sana stood up from the floor and settled beside Jihyo.

Jihyo turned to look at her, and after a moment, Sana gathered her courage and asked, “What?”

“Nothing” Jihyo shrugged playfully, then glanced at the girls. “I think you definitely are the new favorite,” she said with a teasing smile.

Sana chuckled softly and turned to watch the girls play. They stayed there for a little while longer, the warmth of the moment enveloping them. Sana hesitated to ask about the rest of Jihyo’s work, as it was the last thing she wanted to think about right now.

Just as the clock struck 8, Sana heard the unmistakable sound of a car parking outside. The change in atmosphere was almost instantaneous, or at least that’s how it felt to Sana, as she noticed Jihyo tense up beside her. Jihyo’s jaw tightened slowly, and her expression shifted from playful to neutral and serious.

Sana lowered her gaze quickly, focusing on Tzuyu and her toys, trying to ignore the growing tension in the air. When the front door creaked open, an uncomfortable silence filled the room for a moment. Then, within a heartbeat, Tzuyu squealed, sprinting toward her father, who stood just inside the doorway.

Sana dared to lift her eyes, catching a glimpse of a man—Jihyo’s husband. He was clearly imposing, with Tzuyu in his arms, but what caught Sana’s attention was his unwavering gaze fixed directly on her. She felt a chill run down her spine as the reality of the situation sank in.

Without thinking, Sana quickly looked away, sneaking a glance at Jihyo from the corner of her eye. Jihyo's expression was unreadable, but there was a flicker of something—perhaps concern or apprehension—that made Sana’s heart race.

“Hey, sweetheart” Jihyo’s husband finally broke the silence, a warm smile spreading across his face as he looked at Tzuyu. “What are you doing, huh?”

“Playing with Chaengie and Sana!” Tzuyu exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over.

Sana watched as Jihyo's husband momentarily paused, his expression inscrutable as he surveyed the room. Tzuyu's voice filled the silence, but Sana’s heart raced at the weight of the unspoken tension. Jihyo had remained quiet throughout the encounter, and Sana couldn’t help but feel the pressure of the moment bearing down on her.

When Jihyo’s husband finally set Tzuyu down, he turned to her with a gentle inquiry, “Have you eaten yet, sweetheart?”

Tzuyu nodded eagerly, her eyes bright. “Sana made food, and I helped!” she declared proudly.

Sana mentally cursed herself for the slip, wishing she had kept her involvement a secret. Her cheeks flushed, and she averted her gaze, focusing instead on Chaeyoung, who mirrored her confusion. Jihyo’s husband merely nodded, his jaw clenched tightly, and without another word, he turned to leave.

“Good to know,” he muttered, still avoiding eye contact with Jihyo or even acknowledging Chaeyoung. His heavy footsteps echoed on the stairs, and once the sound of a door closing echoed through the house, Sana let out a breath she didn’t realize she had been holding.

Jihyo visibly relaxed, though a strange tension still lingered in her shoulders. She rose from the couch and began to smooth her hair down, her movements meticulous. “Alright, girls,” she said, her voice steady but soft. “I think it’s time to start getting ready for bed.”

Both Tzuyu and Chaeyoung pouted in response, but complied nonetheless. As Sana stood up, Tzuyu dashed towards her, wrapping her arms around Sana’s waist in a tight hug. Chaeyoung followed suit, and Sana couldn’t help but return the embrace, feeling a warmth that contrasted sharply with the earlier exchange.

“It was so much fun playing with you” Tzuyu exclaimed.

Sana smiled, her heart swelling at the innocence of the moment. “It was a pleasure playing with you too! You both are so much fun,” she replied, her voice genuine. Tzuyu then looked up at her with wide eyes, asking, “Will you come back again?”

Sana glanced at Jihyo, searching for permission, before turning back to Tzuyu with a soft expression. “You’ll have to ask your mommy if I can come back,” she said gently.

Tzuyu turned her attention to Jihyo, her small brows furrowing in thought. “Mommy, can Sana come back?” she pleaded, her voice sweet and innocent.

Jihyo exchanged a glance with Sana, a subtle mix of emotions flashing across her face. “We’ll see, Tzuyunnie,” she replied, her tone warm but cautious. “Let’s focus on getting ready for bed first, okay?”

As the girls began to shuffle toward the bathroom and Sana felt a bittersweet tug at her heart.

She finally gave one last wave to Chaeyoung before the two girls disappeared upstairs.

And finally, she was alone again, with Jihyo.

The girl cleared her throat and glanced slightly to the sides, as if searching for something that wasn’t there, and then slowly began to speak. “I think… it’s better if you go home,” she said. “Before it gets any later.”

Sana smiled and nodded slightly. Jihyo looked at her and started walking towards the office, with Sana diligently following closely behind.

Once inside the office, Sana began to gather her things slowly, almost as if wishing the day would never end. She could sense that Jihyo was somehow doing the same, her movements deliberate and measured.

Finally, with her belongings secured, Sana stepped out of the office and followed Jihyo to the front door. Sana paused once outside, starting to bid farewell to Jihyo when the girl surprised her again—she closed the door behind her and began walking toward the car. Sana stood frozen in place and Jihyo turned to look at her, silently asking if she wasn’t coming.

Sana didn’t need to think twice.

She quickly jumped into the car, and Jihyo turned on the ignition and began to drive.

Sana gazed out the window, watching the familiar scenery pass by.

“Hey, Sana,” Jihyo called, pulling Sana's attention back to her. “Thank you.”

Sana turned slightly, a smile spreading across her face. “Thank you for what?” she asked, genuinely curious.

Jihyo smiled faintly, her eyes glancing toward the road before returning to Sana. “For today,” she said softly. “It was… fun.”

Sana felt warmth spread through her at the compliment. “But I didn’t do anything,” she replied, a hint of disbelief in her voice.

Jihyo shrugged, letting out a small sigh. “Still, you did more than you think you did,” she said.

Sana sighed, a mix of appreciation and disbelief. “I really don’t mind,” she said. “I enjoyed it.”

Jihyo smiled and tightened her grip on the steering wheel, clearly deep in thought. “You know, what Tzuyu said…” she trailed off, puffing out her cheeks slightly in a nervous manner. After a brief pause, she let out a sigh, and Sana watched her with an expectant gaze.

Jihyo took a deep breath before continuing, “In a couple of weeks, maybe you could come back?”

Sana’s eyes widened in surprise, and she inhaled sharply. Jihyo glanced sideways, her fingers fidgeting nervously as she awaited Sana’s response. “But only if you want to,” she added quickly, as if trying to downplay the invitation.

“I would love that” she said “And if you want…I can cook again”

Jihyo’s face lit up at Sana’s suggestion. “I’d really like that,” she said, her tone softening.

A few minutes later, Jihyo pulled the car to a stop outside Sana's apartment building, letting out a heavy sigh. The atmosphere was charged with unspoken feelings and anticipation. Sana, sitting beside her, unbuckled her seatbelt and turned to face Jihyo, a bright smile playing on her lips.

"Thank you," Sana said, her voice filled with warmth as she quickly gathered her belongings. Jihyo waved her hand dismissively, a gesture that conveyed that it was nothing to worry about.

"Really, it was my pleasure," Jihyo replied, a hint of bashfulness in her tone. Sana nodded, appreciating the sincerity in her voice.

As Sana opened the door, she turned back to Jihyo one last time. "Goodnight, Jihyo," she said softly, her heart racing.

Jihyo smiled back, her eyes sparkling in the dim light. "Goodnight, Sana," she replied, her voice carrying an undertone of affection.

With that, Sana closed the door and watched as Jihyo drove away. A wave of giddiness washed over her, and she felt her stomach flutter with excitement. The moment felt surreal, and as she turned to walk towards her apartment, she couldn't help but smile wider. Her cheeks ached from the effort, but it was a pleasant pain.

And in that moment, it was when she realized how inevitably fucked and In love she was of Park Jihyo.

—

When Jihyo stepped into her house, everything was dark and silent; the girls seemed to have already fallen asleep. She smiled softly and placed her keys on the entryway table before quickly climbing the stairs.

Once upstairs, she peeked into Tzuyu's room and smiled at the sight of the girls nestled together in the small bed. It didn’t surprise Jihyo; after all, they had had a busy day. She gently closed the door and turned back to her own room, but a sudden feeling of unease washed over her, and just like that, all the joy from earlier faded away.

The light in her room was on, and Jihyo knew that Sungbin was awake. She sighed and clenched her fists; she didn’t feel like fighting. Without further ado, she entered the room, and sure enough, there was Sungbin, sitting in the corner of the bed. He didn’t lift his gaze when Jihyo walked in, nor did he move as she rummaged through her belongings, searching for her pajamas and peeling off the uncomfortable work clothes.

Jihyo mentally celebrated the lack of attention Sungbin was giving her until, finally, he set his phone aside and turned to look at her with a strange expression. The silence between them felt heavy, and Jihyo braced herself for what was to come.

“Why did you invite that girl over to my house?” Sungbin asked, his voice breaking the silence like a crack of thunder. 

Jihyo didn’t even bother to turn around as she continued to remove her makeup. She could feel the tension radiating from him, but she remained focused on her reflection, trying to maintain her composure. Seconds turned into minutes, and she could sense Sungbin’s frustration growing. 

With an audible huff, Sungbin shifted in his seat, the noise breaking Jihyo's concentration. She heard him move, but she refused to interrupt what she was doing. Finally, she turned to face him, meeting his piercing gaze. “She came for work,” she replied coolly, trying to deflect his anger.

Sungbin scoffed, muttering something under his breath that she couldn’t quite catch. “You’re incredible,” he said louder, disbelief etched across his features.

Jihyo rolled her eyes. “What now, huh?” she shot back, her patience wearing thin “How are you gonna ruin this?”

Sungbin fixed his gaze on her, and Jihyo could feel the heat of anger bubbling beneath her skin. All she wanted to do was hit him, to make him understand the whirlwind of emotions she was grappling with. 

“First of all,” he began, his voice raising slightly, “I spend all day at work, and when I come home, I find our daughter playing with a stranger while you act like everything is perfectly fine, as if you’re a fucking happy family.” His tone was sharp, and Jihyo could see the hurt in his eyes. Sungbin then let out a frustrated laugh, shaking his head. “And here I thought you were too busy with work to come home early, but apparently, you have time for that girl” 

“I don’t have to explain anything to you” Jihyo felt the tension in the room thicken as Sungbin approached her, his expression dark and serious. She could feel the heat radiating off his body, and every instinct in her told her to stand her ground. But the words that spilled from his lips felt like daggers aimed straight at her heart.

“Of course you have to explain yourself” Sungbin insisted, his voice rising again. “You’re probably fucking around in my own home and I don’t even know”

Jihyo’s fists clenched tighter, and she struggled to swallow the lump forming in her throat. The accusation cut deep, but she wasn’t about to let him see how much it affected her. Instead, she inhaled sharply and shot back, “I can do whatever I want in my house, Sungbin! When you start paying for things around here, maybe you’ll have the right to say something”

Sungbin stepped even closer, his eyes locked onto hers, a storm of emotions swirling between them. “You aren even trying to deny it. You know it’s true!” 

“Enough!” Jihyo snapped, her voice echoing through the room. She turned and walked towards the bed, needing space to breathe, to think. “I don’t want to hear any more of your bullshit”

Sungbin’s footsteps followed her, and she could feel the intensity of his gaze on her back. “So what? You think I’m just going to stand by while you act like everything’s fine?” ”

Jihyo spun around, her heart racing. “What do you want from me, Sungbin? Do you want me to confess to something that isn’t happening? You’re the one making this into something it’s not!”

“I know what’s going on!” Sungbin shouted, his voice rising with each word. “You can’t hide it from me!”

“Shut up! You’re going to wake the girls!” Jihyo hissed, her voice lowering to a whisper as she glanced towards the closed door, anxiety creeping in. But to her dismay, it seemed Sungbin didn’t care.

“Perfect then!” he said, his voice dripping with disdain. “Let Tzuyu see how much of a slut her mother is!”

That was the breaking point for Jihyo. She could feel her pulse quicken, and before she could think, her hand shot out, connecting with Sungbin’s cheek in a sharp slap. The sound echoed in the room, leaving both of them stunned. 

Sungbin’s eyes widened in shock, his hand instinctively moving to his cheek where her palm had made contact. “What the hell, Jihyo?” he gasped, disbelief coloring his tone.

Jihyo stood there, her breath coming in quick bursts, heart pounding as she processed what had just happened. “Don’t you ever speak to me like that again,” she said, her voice trembling with a mix of fury and fear.

Without waiting for a response, Jihyo turned on her heel and stormed out of the bedroom, her footsteps echoing in the silent house. Each step felt heavy, her heart racing as she fought back tears. 

As she reached the living room, she paused, leaning against the wall to catch her breath, but she couldn’t and she knelt on the floor, her body shaking with each sob that escaped her lips. The weight of her emotions crashed down on her like a tidal wave, overwhelming and relentless. Tears streamed down her face as she pressed her hands against her cheeks, trying to muffle the sound of her cries. 

She had always held it together for Tzuyu, for the sake of their family, but now that facade was shattered. All those months of silence, of swallowing her pain, came rushing to the surface.

 She felt hollow, as if every cherished memory had been stripped away, leaving only the rawness of her heartache.

She lay there on the floor, her tears pooling around her like an ocean of despair. Time lost all meaning; it could have been minutes or hours. The world outside faded away, and in that moment, she felt utterly isolated. 

Because Jihyo was alone and because she knew…no one would come to rescue her from this