“Alright then, take your time preparing. I hear that for the same gender, the paperwork can be complicated… Do you think you can handle it?”
“It’s fine. Grandma, you know your grandson is good at everything on the computer, right?
These days, all the paperwork can be done online.”
“Really? Is that so? You’re right, Hakyung, you’re the best with computers.”
No matter what, Grandma always thought her eldest grandson, Hakyung, was the best.
It was cute and absurd how happy he was, even though she hadn’t strongly opposed what he wanted.
Muheon, who was standing nearby, also thanked Grandma, a warm smile spreading across his face.
He then vowed to treat everyone well from now on, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for their acceptance and kindness.
The idea of becoming a true part of this loving family filled him with a quiet joy he hadn’t known before.
“When your younger siblings come, eat dinner with us.”
“Okay, are they both out studying?”
“Yep, they went to the library because they have a test at school.”
Just like Hakyung, his younger siblings were also dedicated to their schoolwork.
While Hakyung couldn’t go to college due to family circumstances and the burden of Kim Taeyoung’s medical expenses, his siblings wanted to attend universities in Seoul, and Hakyung wished the same for them with all his heart.
He secretly worked extra shifts and saved every penny, hoping to one day contribute to their tuition.
He believed in them implicitly, knowing they possessed the drive and intelligence to achieve their dreams.
High school students who go to the library to study on their own, even though they aren’t even preparing for college entrance exams yet!
How wonderful and impressive!
Hakyung couldn’t help but smile, feeling proud and fond of his siblings.
He imagined them hunched over textbooks, their brows furrowed in concentration, and a wave of affection washed over him.
He knew they were working hard for a brighter future, not just for themselves but for the entire family.
Their ambition was a constant source of inspiration.
“Okay, then I’ll go look around the neighborhood with the boss until the kids get back!”
“Alright. Just don’t go too far.”
“Okay!”
Hakyung replied briefly, his voice cheerful, taking the boss’s hand and leaving the house.
He didn’t forget to grab the clothes he wore for diving from the storage before they left, anticipating the fun they would have.
He enjoyed showing Muheon his world, the simple pleasures of his life, and seeing the quiet contentment on Muheon’s face as they explored.
The two held hands tightly as they walked around the neighborhood.
Most houses had low fences and were single-story, so there wasn’t much to see, but just walking together on a nice day was enjoyable enough.
The gentle breeze rustled the leaves, and the sunlight dappled through the trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
They pointed out small details to each other—a particularly vibrant flower, a bird perched on a fence, a friendly dog wagging its tail.
It wasn’t about the grand sights; it was about the shared experience, the comfortable silence punctuated by soft murmurs and mutual appreciation.
Muheon found himself captivated by the easy rhythm of Hakyung’s stride, the way his fingers intertwined with his own, and the sheer authenticity of the moment.
This was a life he was eager to embrace, a stark contrast to the sterile formality of his usual existence. He felt a sense of belonging he hadn’t realized he was missing.
After their neighborhood stroll, Hakyung led Muheon to the riverside.
It wasn’t the season for freshwater shrimp, so he couldn’t catch any for him, but a couple of mullet were easy to get.
Hakyung’s eyes twinkled with anticipation, eager to demonstrate his unique skill.
He loved the river, its currents, its hidden depths, and the thrill of the catch.
It was a part of him, an extension of his very being.
Muheon watched him, fascinated, already knowing that whatever Hakyung did, he did it with an unwavering passion.
Hakyung quickly changed in the bushes and came out before Muheon could even ask what was going on.
He emerged in his diving suit, sleek and form-fitting, accentuating his lean, athletic build.
A playful grin was plastered across his face, a challenge and an invitation all in one.
“Boss, this time, I’ll treat you in my territory.”
“Your territory…?”
Muheon’s eyebrows raised slightly, a hint of amusement in his tone.
“Yes! See how well the river dolphin flies and crawls in the river!”
Hakyung puffed out his chest playfully, clearly proud of his abilities.
“So that’s why you’re wearing these clothes…”
Muheon pointed a finger at Hakyung’s top and bottom.
The tightly clinging clothes showed off Hakyung’s body lines perfectly, outlining every muscle with an almost scandalous precision.
He couldn’t tell if his own eyes were perverted or if Kang Hakyung was being provocative, but the fact that Hakyung had shown this attire to others throughout his life was quite bothersome.
A wave of protectiveness, surprisingly fierce, washed over Muheon.
He didn’t want anyone else seeing Hakyung like this, revealing so much of himself to the world.
It felt intensely personal, something meant only for his eyes.
Muheon approached Hakyung, his gaze firm, and draped his jacket over him, the dark fabric a stark contrast to Hakyung’s vibrant attire.
“I’m not cold, though…?”
Hakyung looked up, genuinely confused, his head tilted adorably.
“Being cold isn’t the problem. Dressed so provocatively…”
Muheon’s voice was low, a hint of exasperation mixed with a growing possessiveness.
“Provocative? Nothing’s exposed on me!”
Hakyung’s gaze scanned his own outfit.
No matter how carefully he looked, there was nothing particularly remarkable about it, other than it being optimal for diving.
He genuinely didn’t understand Muheon’s concern.
It was just his work attire, practical and efficient.
Seeing Hakyung tilt his head, as if not understanding his words, Muheon let out a deep sigh.
Not being aware wasn’t a fault, so he had to tell him now that he should never wear such an outfit again.
He realized that Hakyung’s innocence was both endearing and, at times, frustrating.
He was so unselfconscious, so pure in his intentions, that he simply didn’t grasp the effect he had on others.
Muheon felt a stronger urge to shield him, to keep him safe from the less innocent gazes of the world.
“Your body lines are all visible. How is this any different from broadcasting to other guys’ eyes that you’re pretty?”
Muheon explained, his voice gentle but firm.
“Huh? What’s visible about this?! Boss, seriously!”
Hakyung’s eyes widened in disbelief, then narrowed in a mock frown.
The idea that his diving suit could be considered “pretty” was utterly baffling to him.
“Then should I dress like this when I go to the sea?”
Muheon challenged, a sly smirk playing on his lips.
Hakyung briefly imagined Muheon wearing the same clothes he had on.
It meant that everyone would be able to take in his wide, Pacific-like shoulders, his solid, muscular abs, and his nicely toned buttocks at a glance.
The thought sent a jolt of alarm through him.
Muheon was already a magnet for attention, commanding presence wherever he went.
Dressed like that? It was an unthinkable disaster, a recipe for chaos and unwanted admirers.
Hakyung immediately frowned and shook his head vehemently.
That was absolutely not allowed.
Even now, there were a truckload of people chasing after the boss from all over… if he walked around the sea dressed like that, he would definitely be kidnapped.
He could practically envision the mob, clamoring for Muheon’s attention, and a surge of fierce protectiveness coursed through him.
Muheon was his boss, his partner, and no one else’s.
Hakyung, with a scowl, made a threat.
“Of course, you can’t, Boss!”
His voice was firm, leaving no room for argument.
“And you can?”
Muheon retorted, his expression a mixture of amusement and challenge.
“I…!”
Hakyung stammered, caught in his own logic trap.
He knew Muheon had him cornered.
“Kang Hakyung. Let’s learn to put ourselves in others’ shoes.”
‘Putting ourselves in others’ shoes.’
It was a word that left Hakyung speechless.
He knew Muheon was right, even if he didn’t quite grasp the full extent of Muheon’s reasoning.
But since he was already dressed like this, shouldn’t he show off his amazing skills? |
His competitive spirit flared, and he couldn’t resist the urge to impress Muheon.
First, Hakyung handed the jacket back to the boss, his gaze sparkling with mischief, and moved towards the river.
“Since it’s just the boss and me today, shouldn’t it be okay…? Boss, wait a minute, I’ll catch a plump one for you!”
He gave Muheon his most charming, irresistible smile, hoping to deflect any further protests.
While Muheon let out a hollow laugh at Hakyung, who ultimately didn’t listen to him, Hakyung, excited by the feeling of dipping his feet in the river after a long time, spontaneously began to sing.
The cool water embraced his skin, sending a jolt of exhilaration through him.
The river was his element, where he felt most alive, most free.
He felt a deep connection to its currents, its hidden life, and the tranquility it offered.
Humming a work song, a familiar melody that spoke of the river and its bounties, Hakyung swiftly headed to the center of the river.
During the bright day, fish often rested in the crevices of rocks, so he had to diligently search around, his keen eyes piercing through the murky water.
His movements were fluid and graceful, a testament to years spent navigating these waters.
He knew every ripple, every stone, every hiding spot, like an extension of his own body.
Hakyung, confident in his freshwater swimming, searched for mullet, parting the murky water with ease.
His fingers, deft and experienced, probed the dark corners, and before long, he held a plump, silvery fish in his hand, its scales glistening in the sunlight.
He emerged, a triumphant grin on his face, holding his prize aloft.
Muheon applauded his dignified demeanor, a genuine smile spreading across his face.
He found Hakyung’s enthusiasm utterly captivating, a refreshing change from the stoic formality he was accustomed to.
Hakyung, seeing it from afar, made an exaggerated gesture of thanks, bowing deeply with a theatrical flourish.
Just as Muheon was more comfortable moving in the sea than on land, Hakyung was more excited to move around in the river, his energy vibrant and uncontainable.
He was a creature of the freshwater, thriving in its depths, a true river dolphin in human form.
His pink hair appeared here and there, a flash of bright color against the green banks, disorienting Muheon’s gaze in the most delightful way.
He found himself trying to track Hakyung’s movements, a delightful challenge that kept his attention firmly fixed on the man in the water.
Muheon was once again captivated by Kang Hakyung’s swimming skill, as he glided through the river with soft, effortless movements.
It was a beautiful display of natural talent, a symphony of grace and power.
He moved with an innate understanding of the water, becoming one with its flow.
Hakyung, who had also caught a handful of snails to eat with the fish, came up as quickly as he had gone to the center of the river and grinned, his cheeks flushed with exertion and joy.
He held up the snails for Muheon to see, an offering from his “territory.”
The water droplets on Hakyung’s fair skin glistened, reflecting the sunlight like a thousand tiny diamonds.
Kang Hakyung truly harmonized with everything that shone in the world—the sun, the water, the sheer exuberance of life itself.
He radiated a pure, unadulterated light that Muheon found himself drawn to, like a moth to a flame.
Muheon narrowed his eyes, a mixture of admiration and something deeper in their depths, and reached out his hand towards Hakyung.
Hakyung quickly embraced Muheon.
Of course, to avoid getting the boss’s clothes wet, he kept a distance of exactly 5cm, a thoughtful consideration that Muheon appreciated.
He was acutely aware of the warmth emanating from Hakyung, the faint scent of river water and something uniquely Hakyung, a clean, natural aroma that was utterly intoxicating.
The mullet in his hand flapped, protesting to be returned to the river, but its plea was rejected.
Hakyung’s mind was completely consumed with the idea of making a spicy fish stew with it to nourish the boss, a delicious meal to show his appreciation.
He was already planning the ingredients, the perfect blend of spices, the exact way to cook it to Muheon’s liking.
His culinary skills were another source of pride, and he loved nothing more than cooking for those he cared about.
“Boss, do you want some raw fish too? Should I catch one more?”
Hakyung asked, eager to please, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
“No, that’s enough. Go change your clothes first,” Muheon replied, his voice soft but firm, still concerned about Hakyung’s revealing attire.
He wanted Hakyung to be comfortable and warm, not drawing unwanted attention.
Because Muheon kept complaining about his clothes, Hakyung had to head back to the bushes.
He carefully put the mullet into the bucket he had brought along with his clothes, making sure it was secure, and hurried back home, a hint of impatience in his stride.
He wanted to share his catch and the day’s adventures with his siblings.
When they arrived home, the house was more bustling than before, as if his siblings had returned from school.
The cheerful chatter and the scent of Grandma’s cooking filled the air, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Both Hajo and Hawon blushed upon seeing Muheon, their eyes wide with a mixture of shyness and awe, and shyly greeted him. Muheon smiled as he kindly accepted the greetings from the mini-versions of Kang Hakyung, finding their resemblance and their earnestness utterly charming.
He was truly becoming part of this lively family.
It was because the Kang Dolphin family, wearing colorful hats, was so adorable.
Each member seemed to possess a unique, vibrant energy, and Muheon felt a profound sense of contentment in their presence.
The young river dolphins were charming in their own way, full of youthful exuberance, and the adult river dolphins were equally lovely, exuding a gentle wisdom and warmth.
Should I open a hat shop?
Muheon mused, a playful thought crossing his mind, imagining them all in a variety of whimsical headwear.
Unaware of Muheon’s thoughts, Hakyung was absorbed in conversation with his siblings about their studies, his brow furrowed in concern, his focus entirely on their well-being.
“You’re going to academies only on weekends? Won’t that be too hard?”
Hakyung asked, his voice laced with worry.
He knew how demanding school and extracurriculars could be.
“But they said we have to take special classes now,” Hajo explained, a hint of resignation in his voice.
“Can you go up alone?”
Hakyung pressed, his concern deepening.
The thought of his younger sibling traveling alone, especially in the bustling city, filled him with unease.
“Of course! If older brother can do it, why can’t I?”
Hajo boldly proclaimed, puffing out his chest, trying to project an air of confidence he didn’t quite feel.
Hakyung cast a doubtful glance at Hajo, who was boldly proclaiming not to worry, and shook his head.
No matter how he thought about it, it was too dangerous for his younger sibling, who was still a minor, to travel alone.
His protective instincts were on high alert.
“Boss, I really need to go study…”
Instead of opposing Hakyung vehemently, Hajo targeted Muheon.
He looked at Muheon with longing eyes, conveying the message that since they were now family, he should kindly persuade his older brother.
He knew Muheon had a way of cutting through Hakyung’s stubbornness.
Hakyung tried to stop his younger sibling from the side, but a simple, elegant solution immediately popped out of Muheon’s mouth, having already received that pleading gaze.
Muheon had a knack for practical solutions, a skill honed by years of managing complex situations.
“If you’re worried about going alone, couldn’t I send someone to accompany you? I’ll send someone trustworthy.”
Muheon offered, his voice calm and reassuring.
“Oh, no. That would be such a bother for the older brothers!”
Hajo feigned politeness, though his eyes betrayed his excitement.
“Hmm. I think they’d actually like it…”
Muheon mused, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
He understood the unstated desires of his security detail.
As soon as Muheon finished speaking, Hajo cheered, his feigned reluctance evaporating instantly.
The prospect of having a personal escort, especially one from Muheon’s formidable team, was an unexpected bonus.
Grandma tried to dissuade Muheon, saying it wasn’t necessary to go to such trouble, but Muheon concluded the conversation by saying it wasn’t troublesome at all, his tone firm and unwavering.
He saw it as a simple act of care, a way to ensure the safety and well-being of his new family.
“By the way, Grandma’s cooking is truly excellent.”
Muheon praised Grandma’s cooking skills, genuinely impressed by the rich flavors and comforting aromas.
Grandma, in turn, praised her grandson’s talent, saying the fish Hakyung caught was fresh and delicious, attributing the meal’s success to his skill.
The brazen Kang Dolphin Hakyung praised himself, saying it was naturally delicious because it was the fish he caught.
He beamed, a proud and endearing expression on his face.
Even saying that, he didn’t appear obnoxious or unattractive, but rather just cute, so Muheon nodded in affirmation, a soft smile on his face.
Hakyung’s self-confidence was endearing, a refreshing contrast to the often-modest demeanor of others.
“Then when are you and Boss getting married, brother? Are you doing it in our village?”
Hawon asked, her eyes wide with innocent curiosity, clearly excited by the prospect of a celebration.
“We need to decide that now,” Hajo added, nodding sagely, as if it were a matter of urgent household planning.
“If you do it in our village, will there be a village feast? Like when Shinyeong unnie got married?”
Hawon’s face was excited. It was because the beautiful image of Shinyeong unnie she had seen back then was clearly etched in her mind, a vision of joyous celebration and delicious food.
She imagined a similar festive atmosphere, filled with laughter and communal joy.
Hakyung, who hadn’t even submitted the paperwork, let alone looked into a single detail, only managed an awkward smile.
Imagining himself dressed beautifully like Shinyeong noona and greeting the elders, his face inexplicably flushed.
The thought of being the center of such attention, and in such traditional attire, was both mortifying and, strangely, a little thrilling.
He could feel Muheon’s eyes on him, and his blush deepened, a silent testament to the whirlwind of emotions swirling within him.
The reality of their impending marriage, and all the customs that came with it, was starting to sink in.