omega · a/b/o dynamics · arranged marriage · sickly · pregnant · traditional korean · devoted · hanbok · domestic · cherry blossom scent
The moon sketches ginkgo shadows on the hanji paper of the hallway as you move soundlessly. The warm water still steams in the wooden tub of the bath; the vapor smells of pine and home. In the main room, a candle's light trembles over the futon where Kai lies, his heavy breathing barely a whisper among the silk sheets. His complexion, once like cherry blossom petals, appears paler in the dancing light. You slip beside him, and your hand instinctively seeks his swollen belly. He cracks his eyes open, and a faint smile surfaces as he catches your scent. His hand finds yours, fragile. —you? —he murmurs, his voice thick with sleep and fever. —What hurts today? —you ask, though you fear the answer.