Chapter Text
Jaeyun stood before the mirror, her reflection staring back at her with sadness and uncertainty. There were no loving glances exchanged, no butterflies of excitement in her stomach, just a quiet acceptance of the life she was about to enter.
Her fingers trembled as she adjusted her things, her thoughts heavy with doubt. She was marrying a man she barely knew, Lee Heeseung, not out of love but necessity. Her family had fallen on hard times, and this marriage was their lifeline. But what kind of life awaited her on the other side of this union? Would she be able to adjust their? She hopes Heeseung doesn't mistreat her, Would she always be just an outsider?
Jaeyun expressed the same concern to her mother 2 days before her wedding. She was so confused and did not know how to tackle this new life.
"I just... I don’t know what’s waiting for me, Mother. What if I’m not enough? For Heeseung, for his son…"
Her mother’s gaze softened as she tucked a stray lock of hair behind Jaeyun’s ear. "You’re kind and strong, Jaeyun. You will find your way. And as for love... it may not be there now, but respect will be. Sometimes the strongest relationships are born out of understanding and respect."
Jaeyun forced a small smile, though the uncertainty gnawed at her. She was about to walk down the aisle and bind herself to a man who had lost his first love, a man burdened with raising a child on his own. She has no clue what he expects from her.
×
Meanwhile, in Heeseung’s small living room, he knelt down in front of his five-year-old son, Jungwon, who sat cross-legged on the floor, playing with his toy cars. Heeseung took a deep breath, unsure of how to explain what was about to happen.
"Jungwon-ah," he began softly, catching his son's attention. "Do you remember when I told you that sometimes families can grow? That new people can join us?"
Jungwon nodded, his innocent eyes wide as he looked up at his father.
“Well, today, someone new is going to become part of our family. Her name is Jaeyun, and she’s going to live with us.”
Jungwon’s brows furrowed in confusion. "Is she going to be like Mommy?"
Heeseung’s heart clenched at the question. His ex-wife’s death was still a wound that hadn’t fully healed, and explaining it to a child made it even harder. He reached out, gently brushing his son’s hair back.
"Somewhat? She can't replace your mommy but she will take care of you, Jungwon. She’s going to help us, be there for us. You and I... we’ve been doing our best, right? But sometimes we need a little help."
Jungwon played with his cars absentmindedly, his mind clearly trying to piece together what his father was saying but it was too much for his 5 year old brain.
"Will she play with me?" That was his main concern.
Heeseung smiled softly, though his chest was heavy with guilt. He didn’t know how Jaeyun would fit into their lives. He had agreed to this marriage not out of love, but because he needed someone to help him raise his son, to give his son motherly love. He could only hope that Jungwon and Jaeyun would find their own way to bond.
"Yes, I think she will," Heeseung said, pulling Jungwon into his arms. "Just behave when she's around, Okay? She might not like naughty kids."
Jungwon rested his head on Heeseung’s shoulder, his small body warm and trusting. Heeseung held him tightly, his mind already on the woman who would soon be his wife. He had no idea what the future held, whether this marriage would bring them closer as a family or create new tensions.
×
Jaeyun stood at the entrance, her heart pounding in her chest as she took in the sight before her. The aisle stretched out, leading her to the man who would soon be her husband. Her fingers gripped the bouquet tightly, the light thorns stabbing her fingers, but that does nothing to calm her down.
She stole a glance at Heeseung, who stood at the altar, his hands clasped in front of him, his face unreadable. It was her first time seeing him, she refused to meet him prior to marriage despite everyone's insistence. She was just scared, scared she'd despise him and it would make it harder for her to follow through the marriage.
He looked handsome in his suit, but there was a tension in his posture, a stiffness that mirrored her own uncertainty. This wasn’t a moment of joy for either of them, it was duty, plain and simple. While most marriages were born out of love and want, this one was pure necessity for them both, Jaeyun wanted a provider for her family and Heeseung wanted a wife and mother for his son.
The soft strains of the wedding march began, signaling her to move forward. With a deep breath, Jaeyun took her first step, her gaze locked straight ahead. Each step felt heavier than the last, as if the weight of her future pressed down on her shoulders.
As she walked, she couldn’t help but think about what came after this day. What would their life look like? Would Heeseung ever look at her with anything more than obligation? Would Jungwon see a mother in her? Would he accept her as a part of his life, or would she always be an outsider in their small, fractured family? Would she ever see Heeseung as anything more than a Provider? And Jungwon anything more than a kid she pities?
When she finally reached the altar, Heeseung met her eyes briefly before turning to the officiant. His face remained impassive, but there was something in his gaze that told her he was just as uncertain as she was. This wasn’t a fairy tale for him either. He was doing this for his son, for the practicalities of life, not for love. For a moment she felt bad for him, it must not be easy seeing a stranger standing where once his dead wife stood.
The officiant’s voice broke through the silence, cutting her thoughts.
“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Sim Jaeyun and Lee Heeseung…”
Jaeyun barely heard the words. She stood still, her hands trembling slightly as she held the bouquet. Her mind raced with thoughts of her family, their financial struggles, their quiet desperation that had led her to this moment. She had agreed to this marriage to save them, but at what cost to herself?
The officiant continued, but Jaeyun’s focus was on Heeseung now. She wondered what he was thinking. Did he regret this? Was he already counting the days, wondering how long they could maintain this pseudo arrangement?
“Do you, Sim Jaeyun, take Lee Heeseung to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, as long as you both shall live?”
Jaeyun swallowed, her throat tight as she forced herself to respond. To accept.
“I do.”
It was a simple answer, but it carried the weight of her entire future.
The officiant turned to Heeseung.
“And do you, Lee Heeseung, take Sim Jaeyun to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, as long as you both shall live?”
Heeseung hesitated for a fraction of a second, his gaze flickering toward her before he spoke.
“I do.”
And just like that, it was done. They were married.
When the officiant pronounced them husband and wife, there was a moment of awkwardness between them. The room fell silent as everyone waited for the kiss that traditionally sealed the union, but neither of them moved. It wasn’t love that had brought them here, after all.
Instead, Heeseung reached out, gently taking Jaeyun’s hand in his. The touch was tentative, almost cautious, as if they were both testing the waters of this new reality. Their eyes met, and slowly Heeseung place a kiss on her cheek.
Light. It felt so soft and light that it had Jaeyun wondering if it even happened. Was she imagining it?
She casts Heeseung a dazed and confused glance, where he tries desperately to look elsewhere while clearing his throat.
Then they turned to face the small crowd, Jaeyun eyes immediately landed on Jungwon. The little boy sat near the front, with Heeseung’s mother. He was wearing a small tux aswell that matched the one Heeseung was wearing. His legs dangling from the chair as he watched his father and his new “mother.” He didn’t fully understand what had just happened, but his innocent eyes held a curiosity that made Jaeyun’s heart ache.
He was so little, he probably has no idea the tragedy that took place. How he lost his mother before he could even know her.
The ceremony was over. They walked down the aisle together, hand in hand, Jaeyun couldn’t shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of a long and uncertain journey. She knows she won't find love in this marriage, her now husband's heart already belonged to someone else, asking a broken man for love would be too cruel.
She just prays he treats her civilly.
×
The car ride from the church to the Lee house had been quiet. Jungwon was riding with them, sitting in the back seat. He hadn’t uttered a word yet, too busy looking at his dad and Jaeyun with big curios eyes.
When they finally pulled up to the estate, Jaeyun’s breath caught in her throat. The house was enormous, far bigger than anything she had ever imagined. It was a modern home, its large windows glowing warmly in the evening light.
The House was no doubt huge, the walls, the furniture, everything was neat and spotless. Despite all that, it still felt cold. It felt like no one lived here, It was so empty and haunting. The first question that rose in Jaeyun’s mind was, Why? Why did Heeseung live in a big house when it was just the three of them?
Heeseung was clearly well-off. There would be no problem supporting her family financially. That's why he hadn’t batted an eye at that prospect, when majority of Jaeyun’s proposals ran to the door at the thought of supporting a big family. She doesn't know if she should be relieved by this realization or terrified.
Heeseung could do whatever he pleases with her, treat her however he wants because he has the money to feed off mouths and cover it all up.
"Jungwon-ah, look, we’re home," Heeseung said softly, carrying his son into the living room.
So far he doesn't seem like a bad guy, but Jaeyun knows better than to trust men. She has had bad experiences with them after all, and she can't possibly assess him when the only interactions she's witnessed so far was of him and his son. Everyone is nice to their kids.
Jungwon, who had dozed off during the ride, stirred in his father’s arms. His small face scrunched up sleepily as he blinked himself awake. As soon as his eyes fell on Jaeyun, they lit up, even in his drowsy state.
“Hi” he mumbled, his words slurred with sleep. “Can we play now?”
Jaeyun’s heart softened as she smiled at him, though she could see the exhaustion on his little face. He was about to reply.
“Not tonight, buddy. It’s time for bed.” Heeseung chuckled softly, rubbing his son’s back in a soothing motion.
Jungwon pouted, his head falling against Heeseung’s shoulder as Heeseung walked towards the direction of his room.
He paused and turned to Jaeyun, a tired but gentle look on his face.
“I’ll take him upstairs. You can settle in.”
"Oh um Alright" Jaeyun said, speaking for the first time after the wedding ceremony.
One of the maids directed her to the master bedroom. As she walked in, the first thing she noticed was the minimalistic look of the bedroom. All it contained was a bed, vanity, desk, lamps, a mini couch, attached bathroom and what she assumed was a closet. She hesitated at the doorway, her pulse quickening. This was their room. The room they would share as husband and wife.
Her heart raced as she slowly stepped inside. She had never expected to be here, in a situation like this. The weight of their marriage, the expectations, the duties, came crashing to her. Her mind whirled, anxiety building as she thought about the implications of the night.
Did Heeseung expect them to consummate? She hopes not, but if he tried then she won't stop him, he's providing for her and her family after all. Jaeyun feels obliged to surrender.
She paced the room, her fingers brushing against the soft fabric of the bedspread. Once tired of pacing, she sat on the side of the bed. She felt too anxious. It's her first time and she doesn't know what to expect, what to do. What are the duties of wife in this circumstance?
The door creaked open, and she turned around to see Heeseung stepping into the room. He looked tired, his tie loosened and his hair slightly disheveled from the long day. He looks at Jaeyun.
"I hope finding the room wasn't too hard, Jungwon was so sleepy I forgot to tell you the directions" He uttered awkwardly.
"It's fine" Jaeyun said, but she wasn't looking at him at all and her fingers were trembling. She was scared.
Jaeyun’s throat tightened as she tried to steady her breathing, but Heeseung could see the worry written all over her face. She couldn’t hide it, not here, not now.
He did not know whether to be amused at her nervousness or be upset at the kind of person she thinks he is.
Heeseung’s eyes softened as he took a step closer.
“Jaeyun,” he said gently, his voice low and calm. “You don’t have to worry.”
She blinked, looked up at him properly this time. She tried to understand what he meant.
Heeseung ran a hand through his hair, letting out a quiet sigh.
“I can tell you’re anxious. I just want you to know... I’m not expecting anything from you tonight. Or ever, really. You don’t have to fulfill any of the traditional roles of a wife. I won’t burden you with that. I know our marriage is... different than what is considered normal."
Jaeyun stared at him, the tension in her chest easing slightly as his words sank in.
“You don’t have to do anything you’re not comfortable with,” he continued. “The only thing I ask of you is to be there for Jungwon. That’s it. Be his mother. The rest... please don't worry about that.”
Jaeyun let out a breath she didn’t realize she had been holding, relief washing over her like a wave. Heeseung wasn’t going to force her into anything. He didn’t want a traditional marriage, and for the first time since the wedding, she felt a flicker of hope. This arrangement might be strange, but maybe it wouldn’t be so unbearable.
“Thank you,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Heeseung gave her a small nod, his expression unreadable.
“We’re both in this for different reasons, but I don’t want you to feel trapped. If you need time, space... just tell me.”
Jaeyun nodded, her shoulders relaxing for the first time all evening.
“I have no qualms about sharing a room with you, it doesn't matter to me but if you're uncomfortable and would prefer to be alone, I can sleep in guest room.” Heeseung says gently.
He meant what he said, he isn't a newly wedded man or anything so mundane things like sharing a room is not a big deal for him now. Jaeyun's comfort is his priority from today and onwards.
"I...don't mind either. You can sleep here, you don't need to leave your room." Jaeyun said hesitantly.
"Alright. Thank you" Heeseung mutters.
With that, Heeseung went inside the bathroom to freshen up and Jaeyun sat down and finally caught her breath. She was terrified of having her first time with a stranger. But she's glad Heeseung so far is a kind man and prays he stays that way.
She was still anxious, still unsure of what their future held, but at least now she knew that Heeseung wasn’t going to push her.
×
The morning light trickled in through the curtains, casting a gentle glow. Jaeyun stirred, her body still heavy with sleep. She blinked her eyes open slowly, only to realize she wasn’t alone in bed. She felt warmth besides her.
Heeseung.
Her heart skipped a beat as she glanced over at him, still asleep on the other side of the bed. His features were relaxed in the soft light, the sharp angles of his face softened by sleep. For a moment, she just stared, the quiet rise and fall of his chest the only sound in the room. They hadn’t touched, hadn’t even exchanged more than a few words before they had gone to bed the night before, but still, there was something undeniably intimate about waking up next to him. It made Jaeyun feel unseasy.
She carefully shifted in the bed, trying not to disturb him. She wasn’t used to this, to sharing a bed with someone who wasn’t her husband in the emotional sense, just in the legal one. But last night, it had felt... inevitable. She can't drive him out of his own room now.
She tried to pull the blankets up without making too much noise, but the soft rustle of fabric seemed louder in the stillness of the room. Heeseung stirred next to her, his eyes fluttering open. For a second, he seemed disoriented, his gaze landing on her in confusion before he quickly remembered where he was, and who he was with.
“Oh...” Heeseung mumbled, his voice thick with sleep. “Good morning.”
“Good morning,” Jaeyun replied quietly, feeling the awkward tension between them rise as they both lay there, neither sure of what to say next.
There was a long pause, neither of them moving. Jaeyun felt a lump form in her throat, not knowing how to break the awkwardness.
Heeseung shifted, sitting up and running a hand through his tousled hair. He gave her a small, awkward smile. “I guess we should head downstairs for breakfast.”
Jaeyun nodded, relieved that he had said something to cut through the silence. She followed his lead, sliding out of bed and quickly grabbing her robe before heading toward the bathroom. They didn’t speak much as they got ready.
×
Downstairs, the smell of breakfast greeted them, eggs, bacon, and fresh toast. Jaeyun sat at the table while Heeseung poured two cups of coffee, setting one in front of her. The clink of the cups and the quiet rustle of plates filled the silence, but it still felt awkward, as if they were strangers sitting across from each other.
Jaeyun glanced toward the empty seat again, remembering their routine from the previous day.
“Um...Where’s Jungwon?”
Heeseung gave a soft chuckle as he took a sip of his coffee. “He’s still asleep. I figured I’d let him sleep in again, he was up late yesterday due to the ceremony.”
Jaeyun nodded. “That makes sense.”
Heeseung was polite, gentle even, but there was always a quiet distance between them. Perhaps that was for the best. The less they interact the better.
After they finished breakfast, Heeseung stood, stretching before glancing at the clock. “I’ll go wake Jungwon now.”
Jaeyun followed him upstairs to Jungwon’s room, his room, unlike the rest of the house was different. It had baby blue walls, a small car shaped bed, a desk, a car rug on the floor filled with toys and a wardrobe. Seems like little one is obsessed with Cars.
Jaeyun’s heart softened at the sight of the small boy curled up in his bed, lost in the peacefulness of sleep. The room was quiet except for the sound of Jungwon’s soft breathing.
Heeseung approached the bed gently, sitting down beside Jungwon. His voice was soft, filled with warmth as he nudged his son awake.
“Jungwon-ah, it’s time to get up, buddy.”
Jungwon stirred, his face scrunching up in sleepy protest before he slowly opened his eyes. He blinked a few times, his gaze slowly focusing on his father. “Dad...”
“Good morning,” Heeseung said, smiling at him. “Did you sleep well?”
Jungwon nodded groggily, still clutching his blanket. That’s when he noticed Jaeyun standing at the doorway, and a small smile crept onto his face. “Yun-ah”
He probably had a hard time pronouncing Jaeyun's name. This made both Heeseung and Jaeyun chuckle
Jaeyun’s heart melted at the sight of him. “Good morning, Jungwon.”
Jungwon yawned, rubbing his eyes before reaching out for his father. “Can we have pancakes, Dad?”
Heeseung chuckled softly. “We can do that. Come on, let’s get you dressed first.”
Jaeyun stood by, watching the sweet interaction between father and son. She could see how much Heeseung cared for Jungwon. It made her realize just how important her role in Jungwon’s life was now. Even if she and Heeseung didn’t have a traditional marriage, she wanted to be there for the boy, to make him feel loved and secure.
And perhaps, with time, the awkwardness between her and Heeseung would fade, replaced by something softer, something more familiar. For now, though, they had Jungwon, and that was enough.
×
Jungwon sat on the floor, surrounded by his toys, his small hands busily arranging a line of action figures in an imaginary battle. The soft hum of Heeseung preparing dinner drifted in from the kitchen.
Jaeyun sat on the couch nearby, quietly watching Jungwon. She had been unsure how to approach him. There were so many unspoken rules, so many fragile emotions to consider. She didn’t want to force her way into his world, but she also didn’t want to stand too far on the sidelines.
Jungwon’s concentration on his toys was deep, his brows furrowed in that serious way only children could pull off. Jaeyun smiled softly, charmed by how immersed he was in his game. It was nice, just being here with him, the quiet between them comfortable.
Then, without warning, Jungwon spoke.
“I know you're my new mommy.”
Jaeyun blinked, the unexpected question pulling her out of her thoughts. Her heart skipped a beat as she stared at him, trying to process what he had just said. She hadn’t expected him to say it, certainly not like that, so direct, so certain.
What was she supposed to say? Would it be right to refer to herself as mom? What did Heeseung tell Jungwon She had no idea.
“I-” Jaeyun stammered, caught completely off guard.
“I guess… yes.” Her voice came out softer than she intended, her mind racing for the right words. “Your dad and I got married yesterday, so... yes, I’m your new mommy.”
Jungwon didn’t look up, his hands still busy with his toys, but his expression remained serious, thoughtful.
“I knew it,” he said confidently, his small voice filled with the innocent certainty only a child could have.
“Dad said you were going to live with us. So that means you’re my mommy now.” He smiled at her.
Jaeyun’s heart squeezed at his words, her chest tightening with a mix of emotion. Uncertainty, tenderness, and a touch of fear. Could she live up to being his mother? She hadn’t even begun to figure out how to be Heeseung’s wife, let alone how to navigate this new role in Jungwon’s life.
One thing she knows for sure though, that she hopes to never see sadness in those innocent big eyes.
She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.
“Aren't you a smart boy? You're right.”
Finally, Jungwon looked up at her, his big, round eyes locking onto hers with a kind of quiet trust that warms her heart .
"I like you, You're pretty and nice." he said simply.
"Aww I like you too, cute kid" Jaeyun’s heart swelled, her eyes misting slightly as she smiled softly.
Jungwon smiled back, his small face lighting up as he turned back to his toys. It was as if, in his childlike wisdom, he had already accepted her into his life. Just like that. So simply.
×
The dining room was quiet, save for the soft clink of silverware against plates as they ate. Heeseung, Jaeyun, and Jungwon sat around the table, peacefully eating their dinner. The smell of the meal Heeseung had prepared, stir-fried vegetables, rice, and a simple soup, filled the room.
Jaeyun sat next to Heeseung, her gaze occasionally drifting to Jungwon, who was happily munching away at his food, his legs swinging beneath the table. It felt peaceful, yet there was still a subtle awkwardness hanging in the air, the kind that comes with new routines.
Jungwon, oblivious to the adult tensions, had been happily talking about his day, mostly about his toys and how he wanted to build a new fort in his room. Jaeyun listened, smiling softly, while Heeseung nodded along, offering the occasional comment.
Just when Jaeyun thought the dinner would pass quietly, Jungwon, with the bluntness of a child, suddenly looked up at his father with wide, innocent eyes and said,
“Appa, I want to marry Yun-ah when I grow up.”
Both Jaeyun and Heeseung froze, their chopsticks mid-air, caught off guard by the unexpected declaration. Jaeyun’s eyes widened as she quickly looked over at Heeseung, who was staring back at her with an equally surprised expression. The silence lasted for only a moment before the two adults burst into laughter.
Heeseung shook his head, a wide grin spreading across his face.
“Ah, Jungwon-ah,” he said, his voice filled with amusement, “you can’t marry Jaeyun. She’s already married to me.”
Jungwon furrowed his brows, clearly not understanding why that would stop him.
“But I like her, She's so pretty. Can’t we both marry her?”
Heeseung laughed lightly at that and upon mentioning, he really looked at Jaeyun for the first time. Yeah, She is very pretty. With short raven hair till her shoulders, doe eyes, sharp nose and extremely plump lips, she emanates beauty and kindess. He seemed to have lost himself for a moment.
Jaeyun couldn’t help but laugh too, her heart melting at his innocent persistence. She reached over, gently ruffling Jungwon’s hair.
“Thank you, Jungwon, but I think one husband is enough for me.”
Jungwon seemed to think about this for a moment, then shrugged, accepting their laughter with the simple grace only a child could. Heeseung smiled warmly at his son, his eyes softening with affection.
“She can always stay with us, though. How about that?”
“Okay!” Jungwon grinned, satisfied with the new arrangement, before returning to his dinner, as if his little marriage proposal had been nothing out of the ordinary.
The rest of the meal passed with lighter spirits, and soon after, Heeseung stood to clean up the table, glancing down at Jungwon, who was rubbing his eyes, his usual energy fading as the day caught up to him.
“It’s bedtime, buddy,” Heeseung said gently, lifting Jungwon into his arms.
Jungwon rested his head on Heeseung’s shoulder, too tired to protest.
“Tuck me in too, Yun-ah" He says sleepily.
Jaeyun smiled, standing from the table.
“I’ll say goodnight, but Appa will tuck you in, okay?”
Jungwon nodded, barely awake as Heeseung carried him up the stairs. Jaeyun followed them, lingering in the doorway of Jungwon’s room as Heeseung gently laid him down in bed. It was a tender sight, Heeseung’s large hands carefully pulling the blanket up to his son’s chin, his expression soft as he whispered goodnight and kissing Jungwon’s head.
Jungwon mumbled something incoherent, already halfway asleep, and Heeseung smiled, brushing a stray hair from his forehead before turning off the lamp beside his bed. Jaeyun stood quietly, watching the father-son moment with a strange mix of emotions, warmth, but also a quiet pang of uncertainty.
Heeseung really loved Jungwon with all his heart. The only way Jaeyun can return his favor is by taking care of his son, and God Forbid she makes a mistake regarding it, she has no idea what Heeseung will do and how disappointed he'd be.
After tucking Jungwon in, Heeseung softly shut the door, leaving the room in a comfortable darkness. He turned to Jaeyun, who was standing just outside the door, her arms crossed loosely, waiting for him.
They walked back downstairs, the house settling into the quiet of evening, Jaeyun felt the weight of the day finally start to ease. They head towards the bedroom.
×
Heeseung quietly stepped into their bedroom, the door closing with a soft click behind him. Jaeyun was already sitting on the bed, her back against the headboard, fingers fiddling nervously with the edge of the blanket. The quiet of the house, now that Jungwon was asleep, felt heavier somehow, more intimate.
Heeseung walked over to the bed, pausing for a moment before sitting down on the edge, the mattress dipping slightly under his weight. He didn’t look at her right away, his gaze focused somewhere on the floor, lost in thought.
After a long silence, Heeseung spoke, his voice low, almost hesitant.
“How was Jungwon today? Did he say anything to you?” He glanced at her, his eyes searching for something in her expression.
Jaeyun bit her lip, thinking back to their conversation in the living room earlier that evening. She wasn’t sure how much to share, not wanting to overwhelm Heeseung with the complexities of Jungwon’s feelings, but she answered honestly.
“He told me he knows I’m his new mommy.”
“He’s trying to make sense of it all... It’s been hard for him, losing his mom so young.” Heeseung let out a small sigh, a mix of sadness and acceptance.
Jaeyun nodded, her heart tightening. She had wondered about Jungwon’s mother but never had the courage to ask. Now, it seemed Heeseung was ready to talk about it on his own.
Heeseung took a deep breath, as if steeling himself before he spoke again.
“My first wife... Jungwon’s mom... She died in a plane crash three years ago.” His voice was calm, but Jaeyun could hear the faint tremor beneath the surface. “It was unexpected, of course. One day she was here, and the next, she was just... gone.”
Jaeyun felt her chest constrict with sympathy. She hadn’t known the details, but hearing it now, she could feel the weight of his grief, even though he spoke about it with an almost practiced detachment.
What could she say? How could she possibly comfort him after such a loss? Her fingers clenched the blanket tighter as she searched for the right words, but nothing seemed enough.
“I’m... I’m so sorry, Heeseung,” she finally whispered, her voice barely audible. “I can’t imagine how hard that must’ve been for you. And for Jungwon.”
Heeseung nodded slowly, his expression unreadable.
“It was... difficult. But Jungwon needed me. He was only two when it happened, too young to understand, but old enough to feel her absence. I had to keep going, for him. There was no other choice.”
The room felt unbearably still, the gravity of his words hanging between them. Jaeyun’s heart ached for him, but she still didn’t know how to offer him the comfort he deserved. She wasn’t his wife in the traditional sense, and this wasn’t the kind of marriage where she could simply reach out and hold him, reassure him that everything would be okay.
Heeseung cleared his throat, his tone shifting as if he wanted to move on from the subject.
“I’m not looking for love, Jaeyun,” he said bluntly, meeting her eyes now with a quiet honesty. “Im sorry if that's what you were hoping for, or thought we'd have later, but it's impossible. It’s not what this marriage is about for me.”
Jaeyun’s breath caught at the directness of his words, but she listened intently, her heart beating a little faster.
“I just want someone who can help raise Jungwon,” Heeseung continued. “He needs stability, someone who can be there for him when I can’t. I can't always look after him, can't always be there for him. Trust me, I've tried, but I always end up missing his games, picking him up late, having him eat lunch alone. And I need... someone who can handle that, who can raise him with me, without the expectation of love or anything else.”
Jaeyun’s fingers loosened their grip on the blanket as she nodded slowly, absorbing what he was saying. It wasn’t surprising, she had known from the beginning that their marriage wasn’t built on romance, but hearing it stated so plainly still crushed the tiny hope inside her. She hadn’t expected love either, but a part of her wondered if this life would always feel this cold and transactional.
“I don’t mind supporting your family,” Heeseung added, his tone softening slightly. “That’s part of the arrangement, and you don’t need to worry about it. You don’t need to worry about household work either. Don't need to cook, do the dishes, clean or anything, I have maids to take care of that.”
Jaeyun glanced at him, taken aback by the clarity of his words. It was nice of him to care his worries. But there was a hollowness to it all, as if everything was just business, a practical arrangement rather than a real marriage.
“I’ll try to be a good mother to Jungwon,” Jaeyun said quietly, her voice firm but uncertain. “I’m still figuring things out, but... I’ll do my best.”
Heeseung gave her a small nod of acknowledgment, his eyes softening briefly.
“That’s all I ask. I know this isn’t easy for you either. It's your first marriage, your first time trying to be a mother, you can always ask me for help. I won't be harsh on you"
They sat in silence for a moment. Heeseung eventually stood, glancing at the clock on the bedside table.
“You should rest,” he said, his voice gentle. “It’s been a long day. I'll be in my work room.”
Jaeyun nodded, watching as he walked toward the door. He hesitated for a moment, his hand resting on the doorknob, before looking back at her.
“Goodnight, Jaeyun.”
“Goodnight,” she whispered, watching him leave.
As the door clicked shut behind him, Jaeyun lay back on the bed, staring up at the ceiling. Her mind was swirling with everything Heeseung had said, the reality of their marriage settling into place more and more with each passing day. It wasn’t love, and it probably never would be, but for now, they had an understanding. And maybe, just maybe, that was enough for now.
×
The soft click of the door barely disturbed the quiet stillness of the bedroom as Heeseung slipped inside. The clock on the bedside table read 2:07 a.m. its quiet ticking the only sound besides his careful footsteps.
He moved slowly, trying not to wake Jaeyun, who was fast asleep under the soft blanket.
Heeseung’s eyes adjusted to the dim light, and he spotted her curled up on her side, her soft breathing even and peaceful. Her hair was slightly tousled against the pillow, and her delicate features seemed even more soft in sleep.
He moved quietly to his side of the bed, pulling back the blanket before lying down beside her. The mattress dipped under his weight, and he made sure not to disturb her rest. But even as he settled in, sleep refused to come. Instead, his gaze lingered on Jaeyun’s peaceful face, his mind swirling with a mix of emotions he had been suppressing since the morning.
She was beautiful. He had known that from the moment they first met, on the wedding and especially today, but seeing her like this, so unguarded and vulnerable, stirred something in him, a gnawing guilt that had been building in the back of his mind.
She doesn’t deserve this, he thought bitterly, his eyes tracing the curve of her cheek. She doesn’t deserve to be trapped in a marriage with someone like me, a single father who already has too much on his plate, who can’t give her the love she deserves.
Heeseung let out a silent sigh, his heart heavy. Jaeyun was young, beautiful, shy and kind. She could have been with someone who adored her, someone who cherished her the way she deserved to be cherished. But instead, she was here, lying beside him in a marriage that was built on necessity rather than love, tied to a man who had long since closed off his heart.
He truly pitied her.
He hadn’t wanted to drag her into this life, but circumstances had left them both with little choice. She had married him to save her family from poverty, and he had agreed because he needed someone to help raise Jungwon. It felt like exploitation but he was helpless too. It was a practical arrangement, nothing more. But even so, seeing her like this, so close yet so distant, made his chest ache with guilt.
Life must be hard for her, He cannot imagine the amount of hardships one would have to face to marry a stranger just so she can protect her family and support them. She truly must be selfless.
She deserves better than me, he thought, the weight of his responsibility pressing down on him. He could support her family, provide her with a comfortable life, but he couldn’t offer her love, not the kind she might have once dreamed of. He wasn’t capable of it anymore, not after everything he had lost.
His gaze softened as he continued to watch her, the gentle rise and fall of her chest as she slept. Heeseung knew that he couldn’t change the past or undo the choices that had led them here. But at that moment, he made a silent promise to himself. He might not be able to love her the way she deserved, but he would do everything in his power to protect her, to give her everything she wishes to have.
After all, there is more to marriage than love. He will give her respect, patience, understanding, and if earned then trust. He'll be a friend and shoulder to lean on.
With that thought lingering in his mind, Heeseung finally closed his eyes, willing himself to fall asleep. Yet even as exhaustion pulled at him, the guilt stayed, settling deep in his chest as he lay beside the woman who would never truly be his in the way she deserved.
×
It had been two weeks since Jaeyun married Heeseung, and though the awkwardness between them remained the same, Jaeyun was slowly finding her rhythm in the house. She still felt out of place at times, like she didn’t fully belong, but the home was starting to feel less foreign. The maids, initially hesitant around her, had grown accustomed to her presence, and Jaeyun was beginning to take on a more active role, quietly asserting herself.
“Could you please wipe down the windows in the living room?” she asked the head maid as she passed by, her voice soft but steady.
“And I think the curtains could use a good wash, too.” She gestured towards a smudge on the glass
The maid nodded with a smile, pleased with Jaeyun’s growing confidence. Jaeyun didn’t try to overstep, but it was clear she wanted to help, to make this house feel like a home, even if it wasn’t truly hers. She had spent the morning rearranging some furniture, subtly shifting things here and there to give the space a fresh feel. Now, she stood by the mantle, adjusting a vase of flowers that seemed slightly off-center.
As she carefully placed the vase back into position, her eyes caught the photo frames lined up next to it. Without thinking, she reached out and picked one up. The picture inside showed Heeseung, his arm around a beautiful woman with a bright smile, standing on a beach. Yena, his first wife.
The woman in the photo exuded warmth, happiness, and a sense of vibrance that Jaeyun couldn’t help but admire. She was beautiful, radiant even, and it wasn’t hard to see why Heeseung had loved her. They looked so content, so genuinely in love.
Carefully, she set the frame back in its place and picked up another. This one showed Heeseung and his wife holding a baby Jungwon, grinning as they sat together in what appeared to be a park. Jungwon’s chubby hands reached up towards his parents’ faces, his smile just as bright as theirs. She can see from who Jungwon got the smile and sparkles in his
eyes.
She smiled at the picture, they all looked so cute and like a happy little family.
And then, her eyes landed on the last frame: their wedding day.
Yena was dressed in a flowing white gown, standing next to Heeseung, who looked at her with such tenderness and love that it made Jaeyun’s chest tighten. There it was, right in front of her, a reminder that Heeseung’s heart had once belonged entirely to someone else.
Even after two weeks of marriage, Heeseung still kept their wedding picture displayed prominently, a silent testament to the love they had shared. And Maybe something to remind Jaeyun of her place? It made Jaeyun feel small in comparison, like she was just filling a space that could never truly be hers.
But she pushed the feeling aside, reminding herself that this marriage was just an agreement. Heeseung had made it clear from the start that he wasn’t looking for love, that all he needed was someone to help raise Jungwon. Their union wasn’t based on affection or connection, not like his first marriage had been. His first wife had been the love of his life. Jaeyun was just... an obligation.
As she stepped back from the mantle, trying to shake off the heaviness in her chest, she heard footsteps behind her. Heeseung’s voice broke the silence.
“Everything alright?” he asked, his tone neutral as always, though his eyes flickered with a trace of curiosity.
Jaeyun quickly put the frame down and forced a smile and nodded. “Yeah, I was just... fixing the vase.”
Heeseung glanced at the photos but didn’t say anything, and the silence stretched between them. After a moment, he turned and headed towards his study, leaving Jaeyun standing there alone. She watched him go, feeling a mixture of emotions she couldn’t quite name.
With a quiet sigh, she glanced at the vase once more, making sure it was perfectly centered, before turning to finish the rest of her tasks.
Late that night, Heeseung stood in front of the mantle in the living room, his eyes locked on the wedding picture of him and Yena. Heeseung’s chest tightened as he stared at it. They were so happy, felt like they had everything they ever wanted but life is so cruel and unfair.
He wondered if keeping the picture there was unfair to Jaeyun. They were married now, even if it wasn’t for love. She was in his home, trying to adjust, trying to make a life with him and Jungwon. And yet, every time she passed this spot, she was forced to confront the ghost of Yena, the woman who had been his everything.
His hand reached out, hesitating just inches from the frame. Should he remove it? Was it time to let go of the past, even if only a little? But as his fingers brushed the edge of the photo, a wave of guilt washed over him, stronger than before. Yena had been his wife, the mother of his child, the woman he had loved with all his heart. Taking down this picture felt like erasing her, like pretending she hadn’t existed, hadn’t mattered. How could he do that? How could he let go of her memory so easily?
With a heavy sigh, he withdrew his hand and turned away. No, he couldn’t remove it. Not yet. Maybe not ever.
Heeseung walked away from the living room, his mind still troubled. The house was quiet, Jaeyun and Jungwon already asleep. He made his way to his study, hoping to drown his thoughts in work. But the weight of his unresolved emotions followed him, lingering in every corner of the house.
×
The next morning, Jaeyun woke up, her eyes immediately darting to the clock on the bedside table. It was almost 9 AM. Heeseung was usually up and out the door for work by now. She turned over, expecting him to be gone, but he was still there, lying in bed. His eyes were shut, his body unusually still.
Jaeyun frowned but told herself it wasn’t her place to worry. He could be running late, or maybe he had decided to work from home. She brushed the thought aside and headed to the bathroom to freshen up. But when she came back to the bedroom, Heeseung was still lying there, unmoving.
A flicker of concern sparked in her chest. She walked over to the bed, hesitant at first. "Heeseung?" she called softly. No response.
She reached out and lightly shook his shoulder. "Heeseung, it’s almost nine. You’re going to be late for work."
Still nothing.
Her concern deepened. She shook him a little harder this time, her voice rising a little.
"Heeseung!"
A small whimper escaped his lips, and Jaeyun froze. The sound was so weak, so unlike him.
A deep frown settled on her face as she hesitated, her hand hovering over him. Slowly, as if afraid of overstepping, she reached out and touched his forehead.
Her breath caught. His skin was burning hot, far too warm.
Heeseung had a fever. A bad one.
Jaeyun’s mind raced as she quickly pulled the blanket back over him. She didn’t know what to do at first. She’d never seen him this vulnerable, this... unwell. After a few moments of standing there in shock, her instincts kicked in. He needed care, and there was no one else to do it but her.
Without wasting any more time, Jaeyun rushed to the kitchen. She wasn’t a great cook, but she remembered a simple porridge recipe her mother used to make when she or her siblings were sick. She got to work, boiling rice and water, stirring the pot with more focus than she had in days.
While the porridge cooked, she hurried to Jungwon’s room to get him ready for school. Jungwon, still groggy from sleep, asked, "Where’s Dad?"
“He’s not feeling well today," Jaeyun said, gently ruffling his hair. "I’ll take you to school, okay?"
"Okay" he answered.
Once Jungwon was dressed and ready, Jaeyun asked one of the maids the address to his school. She asked her to feed Jungwon breakfast and wait for her to return.
Jaeyun quickly dished out the porridge into a bowl. She placed it on a tray with a glass of water, then hurried back to their bedroom.
Heeseung was still in the same position, eyes closed, his face pale and drenched in sweat. She placed the tray on the bedside table and leaned over him.
“Heeseung,” she whispered gently. “You have a fever, you need to eat something.”
He opened his eyes slightly, his gaze unfocused. His lips parted, but no words came out.
Jaeyun helped him up in sitting position and placed a pillow on his back for support. His eyes were still closed and he kept whimpering.
"Can you...eat? Or should I help you?" She asked.
Heeseung gave no response.
Carefully, Jaeyun lifted the spoon to his lips, feeding him small bites of the warm porridge. He managed to eat a little, but it was clear he was struggling. She watched him, her own heart heavy with concern. She hopes she isn't crossing any boundaries and this doesn't anger Heeseung or make him uncomfortable.
After making sure he had eaten enough, she helped him lie back down. “I’m going to take Jungwon to school,” she said softly. “I’ll get you some medicine on the way back.”
Heeseung nodded weakly, too exhausted to speak.
Jaeyun quickly dropped Jungwon off at school, making sure he was settled before heading to the pharmacy. When she returned home, Heeseung was still lying in bed, his eyes barely open. She sat by his side, gently helping him take the medicine.
"I'm back, I bought some medicine for fever." She informs him.
She quickly takes the medicine out and pours a glass of water, then she feeds him the medicine and helps him swallow it with water slowly and carefully.
“Thank you,” he murmured, his voice hoarse and barely audible.
Jaeyun gave a small nod, not trusting herself to speak. She wasn’t used to this, taking care of someone, especially someone like Heeseung, who had always been so self-sufficient.
×
Heeseung's fever had lingered for three long days. By the second day, Jaeyun, concerned that he wasn’t improving, decided to call a doctor. The house felt stifled with the weight of his illness, and though she wasn’t used to this level of responsibility, she knew she had to act. When the doctor arrived, he checked Heeseung’s vitals and prescribed stronger medication, leaving Jaeyun with a detailed list of instructions. Without hesitation, she went out, got the medicine, and returned to feed Heeseung the prescribed doses.
In those days, Jaeyun had taken on the role of caregiver entirely. She was by Heeseung’s side, making sure he ate, took his medication, and stayed hydrated. She cleaned the sweat from his brow, changed his sheets when they became too damp with fever, and checked his temperature every few hours.
She even helped him change his sweaty clothes, which was the most awkward experience of her life so far. She kept her eyes up the entire time.
She was also looking after Jungwon, taking him to and from school, preparing his meals, and keeping him entertained. It was exhausting, but Jaeyun never complained. She felt it was her duty now, even if their marriage was born out of necessity rather than affection.
On the third day, Heeseung finally started to improve. His fever had reduced slightly, and though he was still weak, he was able to sit up in bed and eat on his own. Jaeyun had cooked a simple meal, rice and soup, which Heeseung accepted with a small, appreciative smile. He hadn’t said much during his illness, but now that he was getting better, he noticed the way Jaeyun moved around him with quiet efficiency, her concern evident in every small action.
Heeseung still didn’t leave the bed that day, but the weight on Jaeyun’s shoulders lightened as she saw him slowly regain his strength.
By the fourth day, the fever had completely broken. When Jaeyun woke up, she saw Heeseung sitting up, looking more like himself, his color returning and the haze of fever gone from his eyes. He seemed determined to go back to work, swinging his legs over the side of the bed as if he could simply pick up where he had left off.
“I need to catch up on work,” he said, his voice still a little hoarse but steadier than it had been in days.
Jaeyun’s eyes widened as she watched him struggle to stand. She hesitated for a moment, her fingers clenching nervously around the edge of her shirt, before finally gathering the courage to step forward.
“Um, Heeseung,” she said softly, her voice tinged with concern. He paused, glancing at her.
“I think you should rest one more day,” she continued, her eyes meeting his. “You’ve been really sick... You’re still recovering. Going to the office now... it’s too soon.”
Heeseung blinked, a little taken aback by her words. He could see the worry etched in her face, her lips pressed into a thin line as if she was holding back even more concerns. It wasn’t like Jaeyun to be so direct, and for a moment, it left him speechless.
“I—” Heeseung started, but the resolve in Jaeyun’s expression made him pause. She had been taking care of him, tending to him without complaint, and here she was, asking him, no, telling him, to take care of himself too. The realization of just how much she had done for him these past few days hit him all at once.
“I’m fine, really,” he tried to argue, though his body still felt heavy with fatigue. “I can handle it.”
But Jaeyun didn’t back down. “Please,” she said softly, almost pleading now. “What if you get sick again? Just rest one more day. ...For Jungwon.”
Heeseung stared at her for a long moment, feeling a warmth spread through him that had nothing to do with the fever. He wasn’t used to someone worrying about him like this, not since Yena. The care Jaeyun had shown him was unexpected, genuine in a way that touched him deeply. She wasn’t obligated to care this much, but she did.
Finally, he sighed and relented, sitting back down on the bed. “Alright,” he said quietly, feeling strangely moved. “I’ll rest.”
Jaeyun’s shoulders relaxed visibly, and she offered a small, relieved smile. “Thank you.”
Heeseung leaned back against the pillows, his eyes following her as she moved to tidy up the room, still looking out for him in small ways. For the first time since their marriage, he felt something shift between them, a sense of connection, however tentative, that hadn’t been there before.
As she gathered the empty dishes from his bedside table, Heeseung spoke again, his voice softer this time. “Thank you, Jaeyun. For looking after me. You really didn't have to. You could've called my mother.”
"Uh No, It's alright. It’s a part of my responsibility after all." She replies softly.
"No it isn't, I don't want you to look after me. Just take care of Jungwon please. Don't bother with me, I can take care of myself" He felt the need to clarify.
Jaeyun didn’t feel good hearing that.
"I know you can, but I'm not heartless. I took care of you because I wanted to. You don't need to remind me again and again the reason why I'm here." She replies sternly.
"No that's not what I-" He was cut off when Jaeyun stormed out of the room. He sighed, feeling like he messed up and didn't properly show his gratitude to Jaeyun. He just wanted to let her know she didn't have to take care of him, didn't want to add more to her plate.
×
Heeseung couldn’t shake the guilt gnawing at him after his interaction with Jaeyun that morning. The way she had stormed out of the room replayed in his mind, her stern words echoing louder than his weak attempt at clarification. He hadn’t meant to be ungrateful. In fact, he was grateful beyond words that she had taken care of him while he was sick, but his clumsy phrasing had made it sound like the opposite.
All day, he tried to catch her, hoping to fix things. Every time he saw her, she would either disappear into another room or find an excuse to leave. Jaeyun was deliberately avoiding him, and it made gim feel worse.
By evening, Heeseung had had enough. He needed to make this right, to tell her what he really meant.
It was late, and the house was quiet. Jungwon was in his room taking his evening nap, and Jaeyun was alone in the kitchen, dishing up some leftovers.
Heeseung entered, his footsteps heavy as his patience ran thin. Jaeyun looked up, her eyes wide, like a deer caught in headlights. Before she could slip away again, Heeseung moved quickly, grabbing her wrist.
"Enough," he muttered under his breath as he gently but firmly dragged her toward their bedroom.
Jaeyun’s heart raced, panic flooding her veins. She had never seen Heeseung this determined, and the sudden grip on her wrist made her think the worst. Her throat tightened, and she could feel the fear bubbling up as her feet stumbled to keep up with his long strides. Did she cross the line? She had no right to complain or talk sternly with him, she keeps forgetting her place.
As soon as they were inside the bedroom, Heeseung closed the door, releasing her wrist.
Jaeyun stood there, her eyes wide, her chest heaving with shallow breaths. She wasn’t sure what he was going to do, but she braced herself for the worst.
In a rush of anxiety, she blurted out, "I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to—"
"Stop," Heeseung interrupted, his voice low but steady. "I don’t want you to apologize."
Jaeyun froze, her mouth snapping shut as she stared at him. She was confused, her mind racing. "I just... I didn’t mean to upset you. I—"
"Jaeyun," Heeseung cut in again, his voice softer now. "Please. I just want to talk."
Her shoulders relaxed slightly, but the tension still hung in the air between them. She nodded slowly, her eyes flickering down to avoid his gaze.
Heeseung sighed, running a hand through his hair.
"I’ve been trying to apologize all day, but you keep running away from me," he began, frustration evident in his voice. "About this morning… I didn’t mean what it sounded like." He said.
Jaeyun glanced up at him, confused but listening.
"I’m grateful for everything you did," he continued, his tone earnest now. "I didn’t mean to make it seem like I didn’t appreciate it. It’s just… I’ve been so used to taking care of myself, and I didn’t want to burden you with more than what you’ve already been asked to do."
Jaeyun remained silent, processing his words.
Heeseung took a deep breath, his expression softening. "But I realize now that I was wrong. I should have just said thank you. I’m really sorry for how I made you feel. You didn’t deserve that. I know it's hard to adjust in an environmentlike this and I can see you're trying your best."
Jaeyun was stunned. She didn't know what she was expecting but it was not this. The sincerity in his voice, the way his eyes softened as he spoke, it was a side of Heeseung she hadn’t seen before. She wasn’t sure how to respond. Her throat felt tight, her mind blank.
"I’m really sorry, Jaeyun," Heeseung repeated, his gaze searching her face for any sign of forgiveness. "Thank you for taking care of me when I was sick. I...
I wouldn’t have made it through without you."
Jaeyun blinked, feeling a strange lump in her throat.
She opened her mouth, but only a soft,
"It's Okay," came out.
Heeseung waited for her to say more, but when she didn’t, he let out a small, resigned sigh, stepping back to give her space.
"I just wanted to make sure you knew how grateful I am." He expresses again.
She nodded meekly, still processing his apology, her mind spinning with a mix of shock and relief.
"I-I should go check on Jungwon," she mumbled, her voice shaky as she turned and hurriedly left the room.
Heeseung watched her go, a sinking feeling in his chest. He hoped she accepted his apology and knew he meant every word he said.
×
After dinner, Jungwon tugged eagerly on Heeseung’s arm.
"Dad, can we have a movie night? I wanna watch Zootopia!"
Heeseung chuckled, glancing at Jungwon. He smiled softly and nodded. "Sounds good, buddy!"
With everything decided, they gathered in the living room. Jaeyun prepared popcorn, sodas, and juice for Jungwon, and they settled in for the movie. Heeseung sat on the couch with Jungwon in his lap.
Jaeyun chose the other sofa across from them. As the opening credits rolled, Jungwon, with his sharp eyes, noticed the distance between them and pouted.
“Yunnie, why are you sitting so far away?” Jungwon said with a slight whine, twisting to look at her. “Sit with meee!”
Jaeyun hesitated, feeling the awkwardness. She glanced at Heeseung, who gave her a small, encouraging nod.
Slowly, Jaeyun rose and crossed the room, settling beside them on the couch. She made sure to leave some space between her and Heeseung, feeling self-conscious.
But before she could relax, Jungwon shifted on Heeseung’s lap and leaned against Jaeyun, resting his head on her chest with a satisfied smile.
Jaeyun froze at the affectionate gesture, her heart fluttering. Jungwon’s innocent action melted her heart, but she noticed his neck was straining in this position. To make him more comfortable, she edged closer, unintentionally pressing her right side against Heeseung’s.
The sudden contact sent a wave of jolt through them.
They both stiffened, unsure of how to handle the unexpected proximity. Her gaze flickered up, only to meet Heeseung’s. His eyes widened slightly, clearly taken off guard as well. They stared at each other for a brief moment before both quickly looked away. Heeseung cleared his throat and started talking to Jungwon.
Jaeyun’s pulse quickened. She could feel the warmth of Heeseung’s body next to hers, and no matter how hard she tried to focus on the movie, her thoughts kept drifting to the fact that they were sitting so close. She prayed he wouldn’t notice how flustered she was, biting her lip to keep her expression calm.
"This is better." Jungwon mumbled, oblivious to the tension between the adults, nestled comfortably against Jaeyun, his small body relaxed.
Jaeyun, with her heart racing, forced a soft smile and nodded, her thoughts a jumbled mess. She could feel Heeseung’s presence, every shift, every breath.
Heeseung also felt hyperaware of every touch and movement but he tried to get his mind off of it, trying to focus on the movie he watched 12 times already.
For the rest of the movie, they sat there, side by side, both hyper-aware of each other, yet pretending nothing had changed. And as Jaeyun quietly prayed both Heeseung and Jungwon won't notice her pink cheeks and question her about it.
×
"Heeseung," Jaeyun called, her voice tentative as she glanced at him. He looked up from his phone, raising an eyebrow. "Can we talk about Jungwon?"
Heeseung immediately set his phone down, his full attention on her now. "Of course. Is something wrong?"
Jaeyun shook her head. "No, nothing’s wrong. It’s just... I’ve been thinking about something."
Heeseung studied her, listening attentively. "Go on."
Jaeyun hesitated, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "I was thinking… maybe I could pick Jungwon up from nursery from now on. It would give me more time to bond with him and....It might make things easier for you too"
Heeseung blinked, clearly surprised by the suggestion. "You want to pick him up?"
Jaeyun nodded, a little nervous. "I think it could be good for both of us. I know he’s still adjusting to having me around, but spending more time with him, especially in moments like that, might help build our relationship."
Heeseung leaned back in his chair, thinking it over. "I hadn’t considered that," he admitted. "But it actually makes a lot of sense. I’ve been struggling to balance work and picking him up on time. If you could help with that, it would mean a lot."
Jaeyun relaxed slightly, encouraged by his response. "I know I’m not his mother, but I want to be there for him in whatever way I can."
Heeseung’s expression softened even more, and for a moment, the tension that had always lingered between them seemed to fade.
"Jungwon is everything to me," he said quietly. "He’s my world. After Yena passed, it’s been hard... I’ve tried to give him the best life I can, but I always worry that I’m not doing enough."
"I think you’re doing a great job," Jaeyun said gently, her voice filled with sincerity. "He adores you, anyone can see that. But you don’t have to do it all alone. I’m here now, and I'd also like to take care of him."
Heeseung nodded, his gaze softening as he looked at her. "Thank you, Jaeyun. For everything. I know this isn’t easy for you either, but it means a lot that you’re trying."
Jaeyun met his eyes, feeling a sense of connection she hadn’t felt before. "No don't thank me, Jungwon is a good kid. It's all good" she said quietly.
Heeseung gave her a small, grateful smile.
×
The next day, Jaeyun arrived at Jungwon’s nursery, waiting outside with the other parents as the children began to pour out. When Jungwon spotted her, his face lit up briefly, but Jaeyun noticed something was off. His usual excitement was muted as he walked over to her.
"Where’s Appa?" Jungwon asked, his voice quiet.
"He’s at work today," Jaeyun replied with a soft smile. "From now on, I’ll be picking you up from school."
Jungwon simply hummed in response, looking down at his shoes. It was uncharacteristic of him, and Jaeyun immediately felt something wasn’t right. Normally, he would be chattering about his day or asking to go play at the park, but today he was unusually quiet.
"How was your day, Jungwon?" Jaeyun asked, trying to engage him.
"It was… good," he replied, but there was a hesitation in his voice, and he trailed off before finishing. Jaeyun’s brow furrowed in concern. He wasn’t telling the whole truth.
They walked home in relative silence, Jaeyun’s mind racing with thoughts about what could be bothering him. She decided not to press further just yet and let him freshen up and rest. Maybe he was just tired. Once they arrived home, she guided him to his room for his afternoon nap, watching as he drifted off.
Later, when Jungwon woke up from his nap, Jaeyun decided it was time to try again. She led him outside to the front yard, where they kicked around a ball for a while. The laughter returned to Jungwon’s voice, but Jaeyun still couldn’t shake the feeling that something was weighing on him.
She knelt down to his level, gently brushing some hair from his forehead. "Jungwon, is something bothering you? Did something happen at school?"
Jungwon hesitated again, his small hands fiddling with the hem of his shirt. "No…" he started, but Jaeyun could see the way his eyes flickered with uncertainty. She waited patiently, giving him space to open up.
"It’s okay," she said softly, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You can tell me anything."
After a moment, Jungwon finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. "Some of the kids… they were being mean to me. They said I don’t have a real mommy."
Jaeyun’s heart clenched with anger and protectiveness, but she controlled her emotions for Jungwon’s sake. She didn’t want him to see her upset. She pulled him into a hug, her arms wrapping tightly around his small frame. "I’m so sorry, Jungwon," she whispered into his hair. "That’s not okay, and it’s not true. I’m here for you, and I won’t let anyone hurt you like that."
Jungwon sniffled against her shoulder, clinging to her as she rocked him gently. "But I miss Mommy," he murmured.
Jaeyun felt a pang in her chest but pushed through it. "I know, sweetie. It’s okay to miss her. But you know what? I’m here now, and I’ll always be here to take care of you. And tomorrow, I’ll talk to your teacher and make sure those kids stop being mean. Okay?"
Jungwon pulled back slightly, looking up at her with hopeful eyes. "You will?"
"I promise," Jaeyun said, wiping a stray tear from his cheek. "No one will bother you again."
A small smile broke out on Jungwon’s face, and before she knew it, he was wrapping his arms around her in a tight hug. Jaeyun hugged him back, feeling warmth spread through her chest. She stood up, swinging him around in her arms, earning giggles from him as they spun together.
While they played, Heeseung stood at the entrance to the house, watching quietly. His eyes softened as he saw the way Jaeyun had handled Jungwon with such care and patience. The way she had so naturally bonded with his son, comforting him and bringing him back to happiness, stirred something in him.
Heeseung had been wary of this marriage, unsure if they could truly build something out of it. But as he watched Jaeyun swing Jungwon around in her arms, his son’s laughter echoing in the yard, Heeseung realized just how much she had already become a part of their little family. He found himself softening toward her, seeing her not just as someone he had married out of necessity, but as someone who truly cared for his son, and maybe, in time, for him too.
×
A few weeks had passed since Jaeyun had started picking Jungwon up from nursery, and the changes in their household were becoming more and more noticeable. Jaeyun had adjusted well to her new role, and her bond with Jungwon had flourished in a way that even Heeseung hadn’t expected.
Jaeyun moved around the house with a sense of ease now, directing the maids, tidying up small things, and decorating the space to make it feel more like a home. It was subtle, nothing too drastic, but Heeseung couldn’t help but notice how the once-cold atmosphere had started to warm with Jaeyun’s touch.
She and Jungwon had grown close too. Every day after nursery, they played together, shared stories, and sometimes even baked in the kitchen. Jungwon, who had been hesitant at first, now trusted her completely. He’d follow her around the house, tugging at her sleeve to show her his toys or ask her to read him a story. His face lit up whenever he was around her, and it filled the house with a joy that had been missing for a long time.
Heeseung watched from the doorway one evening as Jaeyun sat cross-legged on the living room floor with Jungwon. She was helping him piece together a puzzle, her voice patient and encouraging as Jungwon placed the pieces in the wrong spots and laughed. The warmth and laughter between them were contagious, and for a moment, Heeseung just stood there, content to observe.
It wasn’t just Jungwon who had changed. Heeseung had noticed a difference in himself, too. The decision to marry Jaeyun had been one of practicality and necessity. He hadn’t expected her to become such an integral part of their lives so quickly, and yet, seeing her so naturally bond with his son made him realize how right that decision had been.
As the evening wore on and Jungwon grew sleepy, Jaeyun helped him into his pajamas and tucked him into bed. Heeseung came in to kiss his son goodnight, but it was Jaeyun who read the bedtime story, her soft voice lulling Jungwon to sleep. When she quietly closed the door behind her, she turned to find Heeseung standing in the hallway, leaning against the wall with a gentle smile.
"He's trusting you more now," Heeseung said, his voice low but filled with warmth. "He really likes you."
Jaeyun smiled softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I like him a lot too. He’s a sweet kid. I’m glad he’s opening up."
Heeseung nodded, his eyes filled with a kind of gratitude he hadn’t expressed before. "I wasn’t sure how this would work out," he admitted. "But seeing you with him... I know I made the right choice."
Jaeyun blinked, a little taken aback by his words. She had never expected such an admission from Heeseung, who had always been distant, focused on practicality rather than emotions.
"I’m just trying my best," Jaeyun said softly. "I know this isn’t... a normal situation, but I really care about Jungwon. And I want to make things work, for his sake."
Heeseung's gaze softened even further. "You're doing more than I could have asked for. Thank you, Jaeyun."
For the first time since their marriage, there was a genuine connection between them. It wasn’t love, at least not yet, but there was mutual respect, understanding, and maybe even the beginning of something more. They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the air between them lightening.
As Heeseung watched her walk back down the hallway toward their room, he felt a deep sense of contentment. For the first time in a long time, things felt right in his life. And he couldn’t help but think that Jaeyun was the reason for it.