"You should wear this one," Kai murmured, stepping back into her view. His eyes didn't wander; they pinned her in place, heavy and unreadable.
"Then everyone will see my tattoo," Hana countered, voice sharp but faintly nervous.
"Then wear the long veil," he replied smoothly, like the problem had already been solved. His lips curved. "And if that doesn't work… I'll just keep my hands around your waist."
Her pulse stuttered. Why does he always say things like this?
A deliberate throat-clear snapped the moment like glass. The planner had also returned.
"She doesn't need to try the other gowns," Kai said quickly, his tone brisk. "We'll go with this."
"As you wish, sir." The planner bowed.
Kai's gaze softened again when it returned to Hana. "You look beautiful… young lady."
"What do you think, brother-in-law? Did we do a good job?" Nari chirped, her grin playful as always.
Kai's composure locked back into place. "Yes. A very good job."
Still, Hana noticed something small—his smiles belonged to her alone. Relief bloomed quietly in her chest.
"Can I ask for something in return?" Nari's voice cut in.
Kai raised a brow. "Mmm. What do you want?"
"I'd like to go to college with Hana today. The holidays are ending soon, and we need to settle a few things."
He glanced at Hana before turning back to Nari. "That's fine. I'll have a driver take you both."
"Thank you, brother-in-law," Nari said sweetly.
"Kai," Hana spoke up, voice quieter now, "I haven't seen Mom or Kang today."
"They went to Jeju. Eunha kept fussing about missing the wedding, so they had to go."
"Oh. Okay."
"I need to head to the office. Call me on your way back from college, alright?"
Hana nodded. "Take care of yourself."
"You too." His lips curved into a smile that was meant for her alone. With a polite wave to Nari, he stepped out.
As soon as the doors closed, Nari hooked an arm around Hana's neck and smirked. "Looks like I was right."
Hana groaned. "Right about what?"
Nari only grinned wider.
But Hana knew what she meant.