My Korean Love Story

3. Surprise

After an hour-long flight, I finally landed in Korea, and my heart was bursting with happiness. I couldn't contain my excitement as I made my way through the airport, my steps light and my spirits high. I must have looked a bit silly jumping with joy, but I couldn't help myself. However, as I danced around, I noticed some people giving me strange looks. It was a bit embarrassing, but I brushed it off and continued on my way.

With a skip in my step, I hailed a cab from the airport to Armaan's house. I had his address from our last phone call, where I had casually asked him for it without revealing my plans. The cab driver spoke English, which made communication a bit easier. As we drove through the bustling streets of Korea, I couldn't help but marvel at the sights and sounds of this vibrant country. After a couple of hours in the cab, we finally arrived at Armaan's house, and my excitement reached a fever pitch.

Armaan's house was impressive, a sprawling bungalow that seemed to stretch on for miles. I couldn't help but stare in awe as I stepped out of the cab and retrieved my luggage. After paying the cab driver, I took a deep breath and approached the front door, my heart pounding with anticipation.

I rang the doorbell and quickly hid behind a nearby tree, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. Moments later, I heard footsteps approaching, and my heart skipped a beat as the door swung open. There stood Armaan, looking around with a puzzled expression, clearly wondering who had rung the doorbell. Seizing the moment, I emerged from my hiding spot and flung myself into his arms, surprising him with a tight hug.

At first, Armaan seemed taken aback, but as he realized it was me, his face broke into a wide grin, and he returned my hug with equal fervor. He was genuinely happy to see me, and I couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth and affection wash over me. As we stood there, embracing each other, I felt something wet against my shoulder and realized that Armaan was crying tears of joy.

Gently pulling back from the hug, I cupped his face in my hands and wiped away his tears, my heart swelling with love for my dear friend. It was a rare sight to see Armaan so emotional, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness mixed with happiness at the sight.

Armaan's parents soon appeared at the door, drawn by the commotion, and their expressions lit up with delight when they saw me. Armaan's mom rushed forward and enveloped me in a warm hug, and I couldn't help but return the embrace, feeling a sense of comfort and familiarity wash over me. In that moment, I couldn't help but miss my own mother, and I hugged Armaan's mom a little tighter, pretending for a moment that she was my own.

Armaan's dad joined in the hug, his eyes twinkling with happiness as he welcomed me into their home. It felt like I had never left, and I couldn't help but smile as I basked in the warmth of their love and affection. As we settled into the living room, Armaan couldn't contain his curiosity any longer and asked why I hadn't told them I was coming to Korea.

I chuckled and explained that I wanted to surprise them, to see the look of joy on their faces when they saw me at their doorstep. And judging by their reactions, it was a surprise well worth the effort. We laughed and chatted animatedly, catching up on each other's lives and reminiscing about old times.

Armaan's mom insisted on making us some tea, and as she bustled around the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. This was what friendship was all about - being welcomed with open arms into a home that felt like my own.

As we sat around the kitchen table, sipping tea and munching on snacks, Armaan couldn't resist teasing me about my impromptu visit. He playfully tickled me, and I squealed with laughter, darting away from his grasp as we chased each other around the room like children.

Armaan's parents watched with fond amusement, their laughter filling the air as they joined in our playful antics. It felt like no time had passed since we were kids, carefree and full of energy, and I cherished every moment spent with my dear friends.

As the evening wore on, Armaan's mom insisted on cooking us a traditional Korean meal, and we eagerly gathered around the table to enjoy her delicious dishes. The food was a symphony of flavors, each bite bursting with warmth and love, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for the chance to experience Korean culture firsthand.

As we sat around the table, sharing stories and laughter, I couldn't shake the feeling of contentment that washed over me. This was where I belonged, surrounded by friends who felt like family, in a country that welcomed me with open arms.

As the night drew to a close, Armaan's parents insisted that I stay with them for the duration of my trip, and I gratefully accepted their offer. As I settled into bed that night, surrounded by familiar faces and the comforting embrace.