Reimbursed Husband | JC

Chapter 31. Rightfully Owned

"So, Jeonghan, how long have you known my son?" Hyori questioned, her hands folded on her chest as she stared at Jeonghan with a piercing gaze.

Jeonghan felt the intensity of Choi Hyori's scrutiny as her piercing gaze bore into him. The room seemed to hold its breath, awaiting his response to the formidable matriarch's inquiry.

He took a moment, carefully choosing his words before answering, "I've known Seungcheol for about three years now. We met through mutual friends and gradually developed a close bond."

It is true, though; Seungcheol and Jeonghan met each other due to Jihoon and Hoshi, who are, in fact, mutual friends of both males.

The subtle rustling of Choi Hyori's cream-colored maxi dress hinted at a barely perceptible shift in her posture. Her fingers, adorned with a few well-worn rings, remained neatly folded on her chest as if concealing the depth of her thoughts. The air seemed to thicken with anticipation, amplifying the significance of Jeonghan's words in the hushed atmosphere.

Jeonghan continued to lie, feeling the weight of the conversation. He cannot ruin the whole plan that Seungcheol had laid out for himself just due to Jeonghan. "Over these years, we've shared experiences, faced challenges, and grown together. Seungcheol has been a constant source of support and understanding in my life."

Choi Hyori's eyes, sharp and discerning, reflected a mix of curiosity and calculation. She absorbed his words with an inscrutable expression, as if deciphering the nuances hidden beneath the surface. The room, steeped in the fragrance of the Chinese herbal tea, became a canvas for the unspoken dynamics between the young man and the formidable mother-in-law.

"Three years," Choi Hyori repeated, her voice a measured cadence.

"It's a significant amount of time to build a connection. Tell me, Jeonghan, what qualities do you appreciate most in my son?"

Jeonghan, aware of the delicacy of his response, chose his words thoughtfully and speaking the truth. "Seungcheol possesses a rare combination of strength and kindness.--"

Jeonghan's mind veers back to the countless moments he has shared with Seungcheol, a journey filled with ups and downs. Despite Jeonghan occasionally being a considerable headache, not once has Seungcheol uttered a harsh word or raised his voice. The unwavering patience and understanding that Seungcheol extends towards Jeonghan become evident as reflections of their time together dance in Jeonghan's thoughts.

"--His determination is unwavering, yet he approaches challenges with a compassionate heart. He values honesty and loyalty, qualities that have deepened our bond over time."

As Jeonghan revisits the memories of the day, he vividly recalls the enchanting moment when Seungcheol, with a determined spirit, embarked on crafting a heart-shaped pot for him. The ambiance was filled with the earthy scent of clay and the soft hum of the potter's wheel, creating an intimate setting that etched the scene in Jeonghan's mind.

Seungcheol's hands, once unfamiliar with the intricacies of pottery, embraced the challenge with a resilience that mirrored the strength of their bond. The raw clay beneath his fingertips transformed under his skillful guidance, shaping into a vessel that held the essence of their connection. Jeonghan couldn't help but be captivated by the dedication and sincerity that Seungcheol poured into every delicate curve of the heart-shaped pot.

It wasn't just the craftsmanship that left an impression; it was the unwavering determination that radiated from Seungcheol. Despite being his first attempt at such a creation, he didn't falter or back down. The room, bathed in the warm glow of creativity, became a witness to Seungcheol's commitment to crafting something unique and meaningful for Jeonghan.