Kai and Kangsoo exchanged baffled glances, still trying to process the sudden shift.
"I'm sorry I frightened you," A-ri murmured, pulling back to study Hana's tear-brimmed eyes. Her hand was warm as it cupped Hana's cheek, her thumb brushing lightly against her skin. "You're beautiful, Seo Hana… or should I say, Jung Kai Seok Hana."
Relief cracked through Hana's chest like sunlight breaking a storm. "I was scared you didn't like me."
"Why wouldn't I?" A-ri chuckled, her tone unexpectedly soft. "Especially now that I've seen how much my son cares for you."
Across the table, Kai rolled his eyes and sank into his chair, muttering under his breath.
"I hear you've known Kai for years?" A-ri asked, turning her attention back to Hana as she took her seat with elegance only a woman of her stature could carry.
"About ten," Hana said carefully.
"Ten years," A-ri repeated, her smile widening. "That's not just history—it's foundation. Then perhaps you should stay here until the wedding."
"What!?" Hana's head snapped up, nearly knocking her glass.
"Your wedding is in three days," A-ri said matter-of-factly. "There's still so much planning to do. I'd love another woman by my side."
"The wedding is this Saturday?" Hana's voice faltered, eyes darting from A-ri to Kai, then to Kangsoo as if someone might tell her it was a joke.
A-ri raised a brow, her gaze sharp. "He didn't tell you?"
Kai sighed, raking a hand through his hair. "I… couldn't. I got home late last night."
"We'll discuss it after lunch," A-ri declared, her tone leaving no room for argument. She guided Hana gently to her seat beside Kai, as if Hana had already been claimed as part of the family.
A-ri picked up a delicate silver bell and rang it once. Instantly, maids appeared like shadows, setting dish after dish across the gleaming table. Aromas of freshly baked bread, seasoned meats, and fragrant teas filled the air.
Hana, still reeling, glanced at Kai. His expression was brooding, storm clouds brewing beneath his calm exterior. Under the table, her fingers reached for his, squeezing gently. Stop frowning. Smile, she mouthed.
For a heartbeat, his lips twitched stubbornly. But then—almost against his will—they curved into the faintest smile.
A-ri's eyes caught the silent exchange, sharp as ever. A small, knowing smile touched her lips. She still doubted the story behind their sudden marriage, but one thing was undeniable: her son—the boy who had once scoffed at love, who claimed romance was a waste of time—was already showing affection without realizing it.
And Hana… might just be the reason.