Chapter 46: A Week Too Long

The moment the door opened, Gen didn't wait.

Lee barely had time to step inside before Gen pulled her into a tight hug, burying her face in Lee's shoulder. "You're finally back."

Lee, still surprised, sighed softly and wrapped her arms around Gen. "Yeah… I'm home."

Gen didn't let go immediately. A week apart had felt too long, even though they talked every day. Nothing compared to having Lee right here, in her arms.

Gen pulled back just enough to look at her. "I missed you."

Lee's face softened. "I know."

Gen hesitated, then smirked. "Can I kiss you?"

Lee blinked at the sudden request, her lips parting slightly in surprise. But she didn't say anything. She didn't move away.

Gen took that as permission.

She leaned in slowly, giving Lee time to stop her if she wanted. When their lips met, Gen sighed against her, the warmth, the familiarity—it was better than she imagined.

Lee let it happen, responding just enough before she gently pushed Gen away. "I need to shower first."

Gen pouted. "Shower later."

Lee shook her head. "No."

Gen groaned but let go. "Fine. But be quick."

Lee just smirked and walked to the bathroom.

More Than a Hug

By the time Lee stepped out, hair damp, dressed in comfortable sleepwear, she assumed Gen had fallen asleep.

But the moment she slipped into bed, warm arms wrapped around her from behind.

Lee stiffened. "Gen?"

Gen's voice was soft against her ear. "You took too long."

Lee turned slightly. "I thought you were sleeping."

Gen smirked. "I was waiting."

Before Lee could respond, Gen's hands slid around her waist, pulling her closer.

The warmth, the way Gen fit against her—it was impossible to ignore. Lee didn't pull away, not this time. She didn't stop Gen when soft lips found her neck, pressing light kisses there before moving higher.

Lee's breath hitched when Gen tilted her chin up, capturing her lips again. This time, it wasn't just a simple kiss. It was deeper, filled with everything they couldn't say while being apart for a week.

Lee melted into it, her hands instinctively gripping Gen's arms as the kiss grew more intense.

Gen didn't rush. She let Lee take the lead when she wanted, let her pull away when she needed air—only to kiss her again, longer this time.

It started with a hug, then a kiss… but neither of them wanted to stop.

And for once, Lee didn't.