The meal had been generous, and there was still plenty left over. Harin and Mirae rose from the table together, moving in sync to clear the remaining dishes. They worked with the easy cooperation of women who had done this many times before, balancing plates and bowls without spilling, carrying everything to the kitchen.
From the dining table, Seo-yeon could hear the sounds of the dishwasher being loaded, the clink of glass, the murmur of their voices as they worked. It was a domestic scene, comfortable and routine, and something about it felt incredibly intimate.
When they returned, the table was cleared but immediately replenished. Yura had brought out an assortment of desserts—fresh fruit, small cakes, delicate pastries—along with fresh bottles of alcohol. Harin and Mirae claimed the soju and beer, while Joon-ho, Yura, and Seo-yeon stuck with wine.
