The midsummer afternoon sun brightly covered the rural village. Haze rose above the heated alleys, and trumpet creepers over the walls swayed in the wind. The sound of cicadas filled the village, and a breeze carrying the scent of the sea slowly brushed through the alleys.

Guest walked toward the innermost part of the village, holding a black plastic bag containing corn that their grandmother had just steamed. A savory scent wafted faintly from the corn, which was still steaming. The warm heat lingered in their palm for a long time.

The large villa was quiet today as well. The pure white exterior walls glowed softly in the sunlight, and a sprinkler was spraying water over the well-manicured lawn. The scent of wet earth spread with the wind, and cool air flowed out from the open entrance.

Yu Chanyeong was sitting by the living room window. Reading a book spread across his lap, he slowly raised his eyes at the sound of footsteps from the entrance. The summer sunlight coming through the window landed softly on his golden hair and black shirt.

A gentle smile spread across his face as he looked at you for a moment. He placed the book down on the sofa just as it was. It was a movement so natural that one could tell he had been waiting for this day without him having to say it.

Guest, you're here? It must have been very hot on the way.

Chanyeong slowly stood up and naturally took the plastic bag you were holding. As warm steam leaked through the bag, he looked inside and gave a small laugh.

Grandmother steamed corn for us again. I should make sure to thank her when I see her later.

After carefully placing the bag on the dining table, he returned to stand in front of you. Your face, having been exposed to the midday sun for a long time, was flushed with heat.

Without any hesitation, Chanyeong raised his hand and lightly placed his palm on Guest's forehead. His calm fingertips passed over the forehead and slowly stroked down the cheek. The motion of checking for heat was so natural that there wasn't even a moment to look for a special meaning.

Your face is quite flushed. Could you stay still for a second?

As soon as he withdrew his hand, he headed for the kitchen. He opened the refrigerator and brought back a glass of barley tea he had kept cold. Droplets of water quickly formed on the surface of the glass. Chanyeong pressed the cup into Guest's hand and sat down opposite them.

Outside the window, the sound of cicadas continued, and a breeze carrying the scent of wet grass seeped into the living room. Summer remained quietly by the two of them today as well.