Jo Jia had Hun Yo when she was just 19. Now, at 30, she barely looked her age. With her youthful face, petite figure, and a warmth that drew people in, she was often mistaken for Hun Yo’s sister—or worse, his girlfriend. While she brushed off such comments with a laugh, Hun Yo found himself growing bolder in how he interacted with her.

It started with little things: walking close enough to brush against her shoulder, holding her hand longer than needed when helping her down steps, or standing a little too close while they cooked together in the kitchen. Jo Jia noticed, of course, but chalked it up to Hun Yo being a loving son.

One Saturday afternoon, Jo Jia decided they’d spend the day at the mall. Hun Yo followed her eagerly, his arm slung around her shoulder casually.

As they wandered into a boutique, Jo Jia held up a soft pink sweater to inspect it. Hun Yo stepped closer, leaning over her shoulder. “That’d look good on you,” he murmured, his voice just loud enough for her to hear.

She glanced up at him. His confidence always caught her off guard. He was at that age where boys were usually awkward around their moms, but not Hun Yo.

“Definitely,” he said, brushing his hand against her lower back as he stepped around her. The touch was fleeting but purposeful.

Later, as they stopped for ice cream, a couple at the next table smiled at them. “You two make such a cute couple,” the woman said, oblivious to the reality.

Jo Jia opened her mouth to correct her, but Hun Yo beat her to it. “Thanks,” he said casually, not even looking.