Bab 44: A BIT HOMESICK

ROBIN felt a bit nervous as he got out of the car. When Haneul told him earlier that his father was inviting him to dinner at their house, he initially planned to politely refuse. But when he greeted Haneul's father, and the latter invited him personally, he couldn't bring himself to say 'no'.

Uncle Hyunwoo had a face that made it hard to refuse him. His warm, kind eyes and gentle smile radiated genuine care and sincerity. There was a comforting assurance in his expression that made you feel at ease and valued, making it nearly impossible to say 'no' to him.

So, in the end, Robin just found himself agreeing. And now they were here.

He looked at the house in front of him. It was a charming two-story home with a traditional Korean tiled roof and a neat, well-maintained garden. The exterior was a mix of brick and wood, giving it a cozy yet elegant feel. Large windows framed with dark wood allowed plenty of natural light to filter through, and a sturdy wooden door with intricate carvings marked the entrance. A small stone path led up to the front door, flanked by blooming flowers and a few well-placed shrubs. The house exuded a welcoming and homely atmosphere, standing gracefully in the quiet neighborhood.

"Robin hyung, let's go," Haneul called to him.

Robin pulled himself together and followed Haneul. Uncle Hyunwoo was the first to enter the house. After taking off his shoes and putting on indoor slippers, he set down two more pairs, likely for Robin and Haneul. He did it so naturally that Robin once again felt how kind he was.

Robin walked into the house after Haneul. He took off his shoes and put on the indoor slippers. Instinctively, he looked around. He saw the living room, which had a comfortable sofa, a few armchairs, and a coffee table with some family magazines and a vase of fresh flowers. The walls were adorned with family photos, adding a touch of warmth. The room felt cozy and welcoming, exuding a sense of family and comfort.

Just then, Aunt Eunji, wearing an apron, walked out, most likely from the kitchen.

"You're here?" She then turned to Robin and smiled. "Welcome to our home, Robin. Dinner will be ready in a second."

"Make yourself at home. I'll go and help prepare dinner," Uncle Hyunwoo said before going to the kitchen.

"Robin hyung, let's sit down for a bit," Haneul said, walking towards the sofa in the living room.

As the both of them sat down, a voice from behind suddenly spoke.

"Are you that Omega friend Oppa met at the audition?"

Robin turned in the direction of the voice and saw a girl who looked about 14 or 15 years old. She was tall and had an athletic build, radiating energy and confidence. Her medium-length black hair framed her face, accentuating her sharp, cat-like brown eyes that sparkled with curiosity.

He knew that Haneul had a younger sister. This must be her. He smiled and said, "Yes, I am that friend. You must be Haeun. I'm Robin Leroux. You can just call me Robin Oppa."

Instead of answering, Haeun sat down beside Haneul and looked at Robin, studying him carefully. "I don't just call anyone 'Oppa'."

"Haeun-ah, don't be rude," Haneul said in a scolding tone.

Haeun shrugged and replied, "I'm just making sure he's worthy of the title, Oppa."

Robin was taken aback for a moment, but then a smile spread across his face. Amused by her cheeky remark, he chuckled lightly and said, "I hope I can live up to your expectations, then."

Haeun grinned at Robin. "I like you. You pass. From now on, I'll call you Robin Oppa."

Robin grinned back. "I'm honored."

Soon, dinner started. The table was laden with an array of traditional Korean dishes. There were steaming bowls of kimchi jjigae and marinated beef short ribs grilled to perfection. Plates of colorful side dishes filled the table, including kimchi, pickled radishes, and seasoned spinach. Bowls of hot rice completed the feast, creating a warm atmosphere.

As Robin started eating, he suddenly felt homesick. The taste of the food awfully reminded him of his stepmother's cooking. It sounded weird for a French guy to say that he felt homesick after eating Korean food, but the familiar flavors brought back fond memories of the family dinners he used to have.

The warm, hearty dishes reminded him of the comfort and love his stepmother put into her meals, creating a sense of nostalgia that tugged at his heart. For a moment, he was transported back to those evenings, surrounded by family and the cozy atmosphere of home.

"Is the food to your liking, Robin?"

Hearing Aunt Eunji's question, Robin lifted his head and smiled. "Yes. It's very delicious."

"You look like you're about to cry, though," Haeun commented.

"Haeun-ah."

Uncle Hyunwoo and Haneul said almost at the same time.

"It's fine. The delicious food just reminded me of my stepmother's cooking," Robin said.

Haneul looked at Robin's expression. Despite his smile, Haneul could tell he was holding back his emotions. He must be feeling very homesick right now.

He picked up a piece of meat and put it on Robin's rice bowl. "Then eat more."

Robin blinked at his rice bowl, then turned to Haneul and chuckled. "I will. Thank you."