Chapter 16

Aya folded her arms around Hoseok, the hug tightened, she can't remember the last time she felt so safe, except for her friend Carl. This was a whole different experience.

Hoseok was smiling, he took his hand and placed it behind her head, hugging her closer.

"You are special, so no more worrying. Let's go to the sanctuary."

Aya moved back slightly, she looked up and gave Hoseok a bright smile.

"You are going to love it, I know it."

She took his hand, tugging him slightly so they walked faster towards the sanctuary.

She opened the door. "Carl? Are you in?" They entered, Hoseok closed the door.

"Aya! I'll be with you in a second."

Aya smiled up at Hoseok. "You'll love, Carl."

Hoseok moved to stand behind her. "I am sure I will."

Carl came out of the back room, he wasn't paying much attention until he stopped before them.

"Carl is this Hoseok, Hoseok this is Carl."

Carl's eyes widened with recognition, Hoseok saw it in his face he placed a finger on his lips.

"Where are my manners." Carl stuck out his hand. "It is a pleasure to meet you, j-h... Hoseok."

Hoseok took his hand, giving it a firm handshake. "The pleasure is all mine, I have heard a lot about you."

Carl laughed nervously still shaking Hoseok's hand. "Only good things I hope?" He emphasised the last word a bit.

Aya watched the strange interaction between the two with slight confusion.

Hoseok removed his hand. "Only good things."

Aya spoke up.

"Can we hang here for a bit? I would like to show Hoseok, the babies."

Carl was still watching Hoseok with a shocked expression.

"U...Uhm yeah, it is not a problem, I think they will be happy to see you."

"Thank you, Carl!" She gave him a kiss on the cheek.

She hooked her arm around Hoseok's. "You're going to love chubby the most."

Carl watched their backs, Hoseok turned his back looking at Carl pleading with him. Carl gave him a nod.

They reached the cage Aya let go of Hoseok's arm and bend down. "Afternoon Chubby, Shinu and Rai. The puppies barked happily."

Hoseok smiled. "Their beautiful." He placed his hand at the cage, Chubby licked his fingers.

"Do you want to take them out for a bit?"

"I would love too."

Aya opened the cage, the puppies ran out, Shinu and Rai ran over Chubby who rolled out towards Hoseok. They laughed, Hoseok picked up Chubby. Chubby started licking his nose.

"You are one loving pup." Chubby barked in response.

Aya sat down, Shinu and Rai made themselves at home on her lap.

"Chubby likes you a lot Hoseok, they say animals can tell when you have a good soul. And it seems they are correct. You have a beautiful soul Hoseok."

Hoseok sat down next to Aya, rubbing Chubby's belly. His heart was so full of love for this girl, but how would she react if she found out he has been keeping something from her?

"Aya..." His phone rang, he took it out of his pocket. Jimin's face came on display. "I am sorry, I have to take this."