Chapter 4: Two Days in Busan

The drive to Busan was a long one, but Iris didn't mind. She enjoyed watching the scenery shift from the crowded city to the open roads and then to the coastline that stretched infinitely beside them. Luke, as always, handled his Harley with practiced ease, one hand on the handlebars, the other resting lazily on his thigh.

Every now and then, he would glance over at her, a small smirk tugging at his lips whenever she caught him.

"Enjoying the ride, sunshine?" he asked, his voice teasing over the comms they had connected through their helmets.

Iris rolled her eyes but grinned. "Of course. I always love a good ride. Though I do wonder if you're actually watching the road."

Luke chuckled. "I could ride this road with my eyes closed."

"Don't you dare."

He laughed again, the sound warm and rich in her ears.

By the time they reached Busan, the sun was beginning to set, casting golden hues over the quiet coastal city. The air was different here—cleaner, fresher, carrying the distinct scent of salt and sea. Luke led her through the familiar streets, finally stopping in front of a large yet modest house. It was a beautiful two-story home, surrounded by a well-kept garden.

"Home sweet home," Luke said as he parked his Harley, removing his helmet.

Iris followed suit, shaking out her curls before looking up at the house. "It's nice. It suits you."

Luke smirked. "I don't live here anymore, but my parents do."

Before Iris could respond, the front door swung open, and a woman stepped out. She was petite, with warm eyes and a smile that could melt even the coldest hearts. Luke barely had time to brace himself before she threw her arms around him.

"My baby!"

Iris had to bite her lip to hold back a laugh as Luke groaned. "Mom, please—"

"Oh, hush, I haven't seen you in weeks! You think a simple phone call is enough?" She pulled back, then turned her gaze to Iris. Immediately, the warmth in her eyes spread. "And you must be Iris."

Iris nodded, smiling. "Yes, ma'am."

"Oh, none of that 'ma'am' business. Call me Mrs. Jeon."

Luke's father joined them shortly after, a quiet man with a strong presence. He gave Iris a small nod, and she returned it respectfully. It wasn't long before Luke's mother ushered them inside, insisting they freshen up before dinner.

Dinner was lively. Luke's mother had made a feast, and despite Iris's insistence that she could eat lightly, Luke piled food onto her plate.

"You're too thin," he remarked casually, picking at his own food. "Eat more."

Iris narrowed her eyes. "I eat just fine, thank you very much."

Luke's mother chuckled. "You two bicker like an old married couple."

Luke grinned. "She wishes."

Iris rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small laugh that escaped. The conversation flowed easily, with Luke's parents asking about her life, how she met Luke, and what she thought of South Korea so far. Iris answered as truthfully as she could, though she carefully avoided mentioning anything about her illness.

Later that night, as they were settling in, Luke led her to his old bedroom. It was surprisingly neat, though remnants of his teenage years remained—posters, trophies, and old books stacked on the shelves.

"You're sleeping here," he said, dropping her bag onto the bed.

"And where are you sleeping?" Iris asked, raising a brow.

Luke smirked. "Same place. Don't worry, sunshine, I won't bite."

She rolled her eyes but didn't argue. They had shared the same space before, and despite his flirtatious teasing, she knew he was respectful of boundaries.

The next morning, sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting soft golden light into the room. Iris stirred, stretching slightly, only to feel something warm and heavy around her waist.

She blinked, her sleepy mind taking a moment to process the situation.

Luke was next to her, his arms wrapped securely around her waist, his face nestled into the crook of her neck. His breath was warm against her skin, steady and slow in deep sleep.

Iris froze for a moment before exhaling softly. He looked peaceful, so different from the confident, teasing man she had gotten used to. She hesitated, then gently reached up, running her fingers through his hair. It was soft, slightly messy from sleep, and as she stroked it absentmindedly, she couldn't help but smile.

Luke let out a sleepy hum, shifting slightly but not waking up.

Iris chuckled quietly. "Big baby," she murmured under her breath.

She didn't mind. It was comforting, in a way she hadn't expected.

And for the first time in a long time, she felt like she belonged somewhere