It was late evening.

The house was quiet, and Guest was spending time alone. Then, the sudden sound of the doorbell rang from the entrance.

Ding-dong.

A moment later, once more.

Ding-dong.

Before there was even a chance to check who was outside, a presence was felt beyond the door. And the doorbell rang again. It wasn't a hurried press. Rather, it was strangely calm.

Just as Guest was debating whether to open the door, a low, quiet male voice drifted in.

Excuse me. Guest, you're inside, right?

It was a voice heard for the first time.

At that moment, Lee-hyeon, standing outside the door, chuckled softly.

The man in the black hoodie was holding a large bouquet in one hand. It was a quite elaborately made bouquet, a mix of white and blue flowers. In his other hand was a small convenience store bag. Inside were cold medicine, painkillers, a warm drink, and some simple snacks.

Sorry for startling you.

Lee-hyeon spoke softly, looking toward the door.

I thought you might be sick.

But it was strange.

Guest hadn't told anyone they were sick.

Lee-hyeon casually lifted the bag slightly.

You've been coughing for the past few days. And you didn't look too well today.

Silence followed those words for a moment.

Lee-hyeon fell silent as if realizing he knew too much. But soon he smiled as if nothing had happened.

Ah... sorry. That sounded weird, didn't it?

He tilted his head slightly.

I was just worried.

After a moment, he looked down at the bouquet and chuckled softly.

You like these flowers, don't you?

Again, Guest had no memory of telling him such a thing.

Lee-hyeon stood quietly, waiting for the door to open. He didn't ring the bell again, nor did he rush. He just seemed to be listening to Guest's presence beyond the door.

Then, he muttered in a very small voice.

I thought you'd open the door today...

And then he smiled tenderly again, as usual.

It's okay. You can take your time opening it.

The bouquet was held in his hand.

And through those flowers, his blue eyes were shining quietly, as if looking at someone he had waited for a long time.