The next morning, I woke up beside my mom, still in the hospital. My head felt heavy from all the crying the night before, and my eyes were sore. I blinked a few times and turned slightly.
Joonseo was asleep on the chair beside us. His head tilted slightly to the side, arms crossed, breathing calmly. Even in that uncomfortable chair, he looked peaceful. His messy hair fell over his eyes, and the soft sunlight slipping through the curtains gave him this gentle glow. I couldn't help but stare for a second, just admiring the calmness on his face. I didn't deserve someone like him—someone who stayed, even when everything was falling apart.
I looked down at Mom. She was still lying quietly, her pale hand in mine. Her chest rose and fell slowly. She looked… tired. Weak. But she was here. That was enough. I brushed her fingers lightly, hoping she'd squeeze back. She didn't.
"Please be okay," I whispered. "I still need you."
