After saying goodbye to Yuni and Elis, Sam and Loir slipped into the car together.
Just as Sam was about to say something, Loir's lips curved into a playful smile.
"Come to my place today. I'll show you my book collection."
Sam turned his head, studying that mischievous grin, and nodded warmly.
"Alright. Let's go."
He leaned forward and told the driver to head to Loir's house. Within twenty-five minutes, the car stopped in front of a tall, elegant building—Loir's home.
As they got out, Loir turned back toward the driver. "Come inside with us."
The driver waved his hands quickly, a shy smile tugging at his lips. "No, sir. You two go ahead. I'll wait outside."
Sam chuckled and clapped Loir on the shoulder. "Let him be. He probably prefers some peace and quiet."
Loir nodded, then opened the door to his house. The moment they stepped inside, a small whirlwind came running toward them—a tiny girl of about five, with bouncing steps and outstretched arms.
"Brother!" she squealed, launching herself at Loir.
Loir instantly bent down, scooping her up into his arms. "Mini! When did you come back?"
In her soft, childish voice, Mini chirped, "Daddy left me here so I could play with you."
Loir's eyes softened. "Oh, is that so?"
From the side, Sam's lips quirked into a teasing smile. "Mini, do you want some candy? Your brother's friend has lots of good ones."
Mini's round eyes widened as she turned to Sam, curiosity sparkling. "Who are you?"
Loir laughed, shifting her in his arms. "This is my friend, Mini."
Mini leaned close, whispering into her brother's ear in the most serious tone a child could manage. "Brother… he's so handsome."
Loir couldn't help but laugh again as he set her down. "Is that so?"
Then, crouching to meet her gaze, he asked, "By the way, Mini, did you already have lunch?"
"Yes!" she chirped proudly. "Daddy took me to a restaurant today."
The three of them chatted for a while longer before Loir pulled out a box of toys for Mini. "Here, play with these for a bit, alright? I'll go show Sam around the house."
Mini nodded eagerly and busied herself with her dolls and blocks.
Loir led Sam upstairs and into his bedroom. Gesturing around, he said casually, "You can look around wherever you want… just not those drawers over there." He pointed to the left side of the room.
Sam's brows arched. "Alright, I won't touch them," he promised, though deep inside, curiosity stirred. Why specifically forbid those drawers?
Loir excused himself to grab some Cokes and snacks from the fridge.
The moment the door clicked shut, Sam's restraint slipped. His eyes darted toward the forbidden drawers. He walked over, hesitated, then slowly slid one open.
And froze.
Inside were stacks of photographs. His photographs.
Sam blinked, picking one up. They were candid shots—him laughing, him walking, him caught mid-sentence. Pictures he didn't even know existed.
A surprised smile tugged at his lips as warmth bloomed in his chest. He didn't know whether to laugh, tease, or… blush.
Just then, footsteps echoed in the hallway. Heart racing, Sam quickly shut the drawer, smoothing his expression. He turned toward the window, feigning casual interest in the view, just as Loir stepped back into the room with snacks in hand.
---
To be Continued...