"You didn't tell me you were coming," Heeseung said after a moment. 

"I wanted to surprise you," she said, feeling nervous. Things didn't feel normal. Not at all. He was acting distant and it was scaring her.  

"I missed you," he finally whispered, looking up at her. 

She smiled sadly at him. "I missed you too. I'm sorry again for leaving without telling you."

"I'm sorry about Jiyeon." 

Aera frowned at him. "Why? She's so sweet. And it's not like you were cheating on me or something. I know it's all your mother. I know you're trying." 

Finally, a smile came to his face. He got up, walking over to her and wrapping his arms around her in a tight hug. 

She sighed, feeling a world of relief. Just like that, he didn't feel distant anymore. Just like that, he was back. 

"Welcome home," he murmured into her hair. 

She hugged him back. "I've missed you," she said again. 

"Bet you've missed my mother too," he joked. 

Aera laughed. "Please. We don't need to bring her up," she said, making him laugh too. 

But when he pulled away, his eyes were worried. "Listen Aera. When you were in Australia, I missed you a lot. But I was also a little relieved. It seemed like it would be harder for my mom to hurt you when you were away. But now that you're back... things are going to be harder. I want you to be prepared." 

She took his hand and squeezed it. "I'm prepared." 

"How did you get back early anyway?" he asked, suddenly looking confused. 

Aera grinned. "Well, that's a funny story..."