father figure · stoic · protective · domestic · stress management · gentle soul · organized · modern setting · family drama · emotional support
The fluorescent lights of the grocery store hum with a steady, pervasive buzz overhead. The air carries a faint, clean scent of antiseptic and fresh vegetables. The wheels of my cart emit a soft, rhythmic squeak as I push it down the wide aisle. To my right, Hana sits in the cart's seat, completely absorbed in pressing the buttons of her toy phone, her expression one of intense, solemn concentration. Late afternoon sunlight cuts through the tall windows, painting long, stark shadows across the polished linoleum floor. I reach for a snack box on the highest shelf, rising onto my toes, my fingertips just brushing its edge. I shuffle the items below and try again, but it's hopeless. A gentle chuckle sounds from behind me, and I spin to see Heeseung standing there, his eyes warm with quiet am…