Chapter 17

A few hours later, Alex woke again, this time to the soft rustling of fabric and the smell of fresh coffee drifting through the air. The morning light filtering through the curtains felt less harsh, and for the first time in what felt like forever, she didn't wake up feeling like she was about to be sick.Hyunjin was still beside her, his arms wrapped loosely around her waist, his breathing steady and deep. She could tell he was awake by the way his fingers gently traced patterns on her stomach, his touch feather-light and absentminded. She blinked a few times, shifting slightly, and Hyunjin immediately leaned up on his elbow, gazing down at her with a soft smile."Morning, baby girl," he murmured, his voice low and soothing.Alex stretched a little, feeling the warmth of his body still wrapped around her. "Morning," she replied softly, her eyes searching his. "What time is it?""Just after eight," he said, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You feeling better?"She nodded, letting out a small sigh. "Yeah. I think I just needed a little extra rest." She glanced toward the nightstand, spotting the cup of tea Kendra must have left for her. "And maybe some ginger tea."Hyunjin smirked. "Told you we'd take care of you." He sat up slightly, propping himself against the headboard, and as he did, his hand instinctively settled on her stomach. "Gotta make sure both of my girls are okay."Alex froze, her breath catching in her throat. Slowly, she turned her head to look at him, narrowing her eyes. "My girls?" she echoed, her heart pounding in her chest.Hyunjin's eyes widened for a split second before panic flashed across his face. "Uh..." He blinked rapidly, scrambling to cover his tracks. "I-I mean, you and Beth. And Kendra. You know... my girls." His voice cracked slightly, and Alex wasn't buying it for a second.A slow smirk crept across her lips. "Hyunjin..." she said warningly, propping herself up on one elbow. "How do you know it's a girl?"Hyunjin visibly gulped, his gaze darting around the room as if searching for an escape. "Uhh... well... you know..." He laughed nervously, running a hand through his hair. "I mean, it's just a feeling? I figured you'd have a girl's vibe or something..."Alex sat up fully now, folding her arms across her chest and fixing him with a look that was equal parts amusement and annoyance. "You are a terrible liar, Jinnie. Did Chan tell you?"He groaned, letting his head fall back against the headboard. "I was so excited and Chan told me while you were asleep after the appointment."Alex stared at him, equal parts exasperated and amused. "Hyunjin," she sighed, shaking her head with a tired smile. "You two were supposed to wait until after the wedding for the gender reveal."Hyunjin gave her his best sheepish look, biting his lower lip as if that would save him. "I know, I know! But you know how Chan is with secrets. And to be fair... I did force it out of him." He pouted slightly, his hands gently smoothing over her stomach. "I just... I couldn't wait. I had to know."Alex rolled her eyes, a small laugh escaping her lips. "I swear, you two are the worst at keeping surprises." She leaned into him, letting her head rest against his chest, feeling the steady rise and fall of his breath. "But you know what? I'm not even mad."He tilted his head down, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Really?"Alex glanced up at him, eyes sparkling with affection. "Yeah," she whispered. "Because now I get to tease Chan about spilling the secret. And..." she reached down, covering his hand with hers over her stomach. "It's kind of nice knowing that our little girl already has two dads who are wrapped around her tiny little finger."Hyunjin's smile softened, and he leaned in to capture her lips in a slow, lingering kiss. "She's gonna be so loved," he murmured against her mouth, his voice full of tenderness. "You both are."Alex sighed into the kiss, feeling warmth spread through her chest. "We already are," she whispered, brushing her nose against his before pulling away slightly. "But now you have to help me pretend like we don't know when the reveal happens."Hyunjin groaned dramatically. "Ugh, I'm a terrible actor, Alex. You're asking too much."Alex smirked, poking his side playfully. "Suck it up, babe. You're in too deep now." She shifted to sit up fully, running a hand through her hair. "Now, get out of here before I start getting ready. You've had your fill of cuddles."Hyunjin pouted but obediently slid off the bed, pausing to press another lingering kiss to her lips before finally stepping back. "You sure I can't stay just a little longer?"Alex laughed, pushing him toward the door. "Out, Jinnie. You'll see me at the altar."Hyunjin sighed dramatically but smiled, his hand lingering on the doorknob. "Alright, alright. I'll see you soon, bride-to-be." He gave her one last playful wink before disappearing into the hallway, leaving Alex standing there with a fond smile on her lips.As she turned back to the bed, she gently traced her fingers over her stomach, a sense of peace settling over her. In just a few hours, she'd be walking down the aisle to the love of her life, surrounded by the people who meant the most to her. And the fact that their little girl would be joining them soon? It made everything feel that much more perfect.Taking a deep breath, she grabbed her phone and sent a quick text to Chan.Alex: You're lucky I love you. We'll talk about your inability to keep secrets later.Chan: Jinnie told you, didn't he?Alex: Of course he did.Chan: I regret nothing. I love you both.Alex: I love you too. Now go get ready, Mr. Bang.With a soft laugh, Alex set her phone down and made her way to the bathroom, ready to start getting prepared for the biggest day of her life.A few hours later, the suite buzzed with quiet excitement as Alex sat in front of the large vanity mirror. Her mother, Beth, and Kendra fluttered around her like a well-coordinated team, while the hair and makeup artists set up their tools with precise efficiency. The morning sunlight streamed through the sheer curtains, bathing the room in a soft glow, adding to the surreal feeling of the day.Beth appeared behind her, holding up a steaming cup of tea. "Ginger, just in case," she said knowingly, setting it down beside Alex with a reassuring smile.Alex smiled back, her fingers automatically reaching to cradle the warm cup. "You know me too well."Her mother, Elizabeth, sat nearby, watching with misty eyes as the stylist gently pulled Alex's hair into an elegant updo. "I can't believe this day is finally here," Elizabeth whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "My baby girl, getting married."Alex turned slightly, meeting her mother's gaze in the mirror. "Mom, if you start crying, I won't make it through the makeup," she teased lightly, but her own voice wavered slightly.Kendra plopped onto the plush couch, folding her legs underneath her. "Honestly, it's a miracle we got to this point with how chaotic everything has been. Pregnancy, work, Chan's schedule—I'm just glad you're still standing, Alex."Alex chuckled. "Me too. Although I might collapse by the end of the night."The hairstylist, a kind older woman with nimble fingers, smiled as she pinned the last section of Alex's hair. "You're doing beautifully. And trust me, once you put that dress on, you'll forget about everything else."Beth grinned and leaned closer to Alex, whispering, "Speaking of which, how are we feeling about the dress? Still in love with it?"Alex's eyes flickered to the garment bag hanging carefully on the wall, a small smile playing on her lips. "You know what? I think Hyunjin was right. It's perfect." She sighed, her hand unconsciously drifting to her stomach. "It fits like a dream, and it hides... just enough."Kendra rolled her eyes. "Girl, you look amazing in it. Bump or no bump."Elizabeth smiled, stepping forward to gently squeeze Alex's shoulders. "You're glowing, sweetheart. Chan won't be able to take his eyes off you."Alex's heart squeezed at the mention of Chan. Just a few floors away, he was getting ready with his groomsmen, probably laughing at one of Jisung's dumb jokes or letting Hyunjin fuss over his tie. She missed him already, but the anticipation of seeing him at the altar made it all worth it.The makeup artist approached, holding up a soft pink lipstick. "Ready to get started?"Alex nodded, feeling the nerves bubble up in her chest. "Let's do this."As the team worked on her, the suite filled with chatter—Beth gushing about how Cassie was practicing her flower girl walk, Kendra scrolling through wedding messages from well-wishers, and her mom reminiscing about Alex's childhood.Halfway through the process, Hannah peeked her head into the room. "Bridesmaids are almost ready, and Cassie is doing laps around the dressing room with her flower basket," she giggled. "Also, Elliot says Felix is already crying, so prepare yourself."Alex laughed softly, shaking her head. "Why am I not surprised?"With each passing minute, the reality of the day sunk in deeper. The last few months had been a whirlwind of planning, pregnancy ups and downs, and juggling careers, but now—now it was finally happening.As the final touches were made—soft waves framing her face, a gentle glow to her makeup, and her delicate earrings secured—Alex finally stood, smoothing a hand over the silky robe she was wearing."Alright," Beth said, her voice thick with emotion. "Let's get you into that dress."Alex swallowed the lump in her throat and nodded. "Let's do it."Her mother carefully unzipped the garment bag, revealing the breathtaking gown that shimmered softly under the warm light. The intricate beading caught the light perfectly, and the overskirt draped beautifully to create a stunning silhouette.Kendra let out a low whistle. "Damn, girl. Chan's gonna pass out."Alex laughed, taking a steadying breath. "I hope he can at least stay standing for the vows."With gentle hands, Beth and her mother helped Alex into the dress, securing the final buttons and fluffing out the overskirt. When Alex finally turned back to the mirror, her breath hitched.She stood there, gazing at her reflection, and for the first time in a long time, she felt truly beautiful. Her eyes drifted down to where the dress hugged her body, the delicate embellishments catching the light, highlighting the subtle curve of her baby bump. Her hand rested gently over it, fingers tracing the fabric-covered swell, and a small, bittersweet smile tugged at her lips.It was strange, seeing herself like this—glowing, excited, and carrying a piece of her and Chan's love. She never imagined she'd get to this point again, standing in front of a mirror in a wedding gown, preparing to walk down the aisle. Her gaze shifted slightly, catching the faint lines of the tattoos on her arms—each one telling a story, a piece of her past etched permanently into her skin.Her fingers brushed over the ink just under her collarbone—the delicate EKG line that faded into David's name. The tattoo had been a silent comfort over the years, a reminder of a love that had once filled her life with warmth and promise. She traced it gently, feeling the familiar sting of memory beneath her fingertips.For a moment, she let herself remember. The way David used to smile at her when she walked into a room, the way his laugh could fill the space with joy, the way he held her when the weight of the world felt too heavy. She could almost hear his voice, soft and reassuring, telling her how beautiful she looked, how proud he was of her.Tears pricked at her eyes, but she blinked them away, offering her reflection a small, bittersweet smile. "You'd want me to be happy," she whispered to herself, her voice trembling but certain. "And I am."Beth must have noticed the change in her expression because she gently stepped beside her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "Thinking about him?" she asked softly, not prying, just understanding.Alex nodded, a small, wistful smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah. I just... I never thought I'd be here again, you know? Getting married. Having a baby." She let out a shaky breath. "It feels surreal."Beth squeezed her gently. "David loved you so much, Alex. And I know he'd be so proud of the life you're building now—with Chan, with all of us." She paused, letting the words sink in. "And with your little one on the way."Alex nodded, her eyes locked on her reflection as she processed Beth's words. She let out a deep breath, pressing a hand gently against her belly. "It's just... I thought that chapter of my life was closed," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I never imagined I'd get to feel this kind of happiness again."Her mother stepped forward then, her expression warm and full of love. "Happiness isn't something that runs out, sweetheart. It just changes." She reached out and gently adjusted a strand of Alex's hair. "You're allowed to move forward, to love again. And that doesn't mean you're leaving David behind. He's always going to be with you."Alex swallowed the lump in her throat, nodding slowly. "I know," she said softly, her fingers still tracing the tattoo. "And I think... I think he'd like Chan." A small, genuine smile tugged at her lips. "He'd probably tease me for falling for another guy in the music world."Beth chuckled. "Well, you do have a type."Alex rolled her eyes, letting the laughter ease the weight in her chest. She took a deep breath, her gaze returning to her reflection, this time with a newfound clarity. "He'd be happy for me," she said with conviction, the lingering sadness slowly giving way to the warmth of love and hope.Kendra, who had been quietly watching, stepped forward with a soft smile. "And we're happy for you, Al. This is your day. A new beginning. And we're all here for you, every step of the way."Alex reached out, squeezing Kendra's hand tightly. "Thanks, Ken," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "I really mean that."Beth wiped a tear from the corner of her eye before clapping her hands together. "Alright, no more crying. We have a wedding to get ready for!"The energy in the room shifted, and Alex exhaled, letting herself get swept up in the flurry of last-minute preparations.Just as Beth finished adjusting the last delicate detail of Alex's gown, the door swung open, and Mira, their wedding planner, breezed in with her usual air of calm authority. Dressed impeccably in a sleek navy pantsuit, clipboard in hand, she flashed a warm smile at Alex."There's my gorgeous bride," Mira said, eyes twinkling as she took in the sight before her. "You look absolutely breathtaking, Alex."Alex let out a breathless laugh, smoothing her hands over the intricate beading of her dress. "Thanks, Mira. I think I'm finally feeling like a bride."Beth grinned. "She's been having a moment, but we're getting there."Mira nodded knowingly. "Totally normal. You're about to walk down the aisle to the love of your life, with a little one on the way." Her eyes softened as they landed briefly on Alex's stomach. "You're handling it all beautifully."Alex bit her lip, a flush rising to her cheeks. "I'm trying my best."Mira tapped her clipboard, shifting gears. "Alright, ladies, we've got a schedule to stick to. The ceremony will begin in just under two hours. Right now, the groomsmen are finishing up their photos, and Chan is... well, he's pacing. A lot."Kendra laughed. "Sounds about right."Mira smirked. "I had to physically stop him from trying to sneak a peek earlier." She glanced at Alex with a wink. "He's dying to see you."Alex's heart swelled, and she could feel the emotions threatening to bubble up again. "I can't wait to see him either.""Well," Mira said briskly, "before that, we have to get through first-look photos with your bridal party. Then, family portraits with your parents and Chan's family. Once that's done, we'll tuck you away until it's time to walk down the aisle." She flipped a page on her clipboard. "And let's not forget—Chan's mom has been sneaking around trying to get a peek at you too."Alex laughed softly, shaking her head. "I should've expected that.""Alright, let's get your veil in place," Mira continued, motioning for the hairstylist. "Then we'll move on to photos."Beth stepped forward, gently holding the delicate veil while the hairstylist carefully pinned it into Alex's hair. The soft, flowing fabric cascaded down her back, blending perfectly with the shimmering details of her dress.Alex took a deep, steadying breath as she looked at herself in the mirror again, this time with the veil framing her face. "Wow," she whispered, her voice filled with awe."You look perfect," Elizabeth said, tears shimmering in her eyes again.Kendra sniffled. "Okay, I promised myself I wouldn't cry yet, but damn, Alex."Mira smiled, stepping forward to adjust the veil slightly. "You are officially a vision," she said with finality. "Now, let's get you into those heels, and we'll head to the grand staircase for some pre-ceremony shots."Alex glanced down at the towering heels waiting for her. "Oh boy," she muttered, earning a chorus of chuckles from the room.Beth knelt down, holding them out with a smirk. "Come on, we'll get you in them without breaking anything."As Alex slipped her feet into the heels, she caught a glimpse of herself once more in the mirror, feeling a swell of confidence and joy. She was ready. Ready to marry the love of her life, ready to embrace the future, and ready to walk down that aisle with all the love and support surrounding her.Mira checked her watch and clapped her hands. "Alright, team bride! Let's move."