Throughout the day I chatted with the other members listening as they worried for seven, questioned V and even Seven himself as he felt as confused as he could be at that moment. Jumin had postponed our lunch, only forgiving him because it is too funny see him and Zen bickering over the chat. Zen did have a point though, Jumin was having stuff on the way he wanted for far too long. It was already night when Jumin came back from work.
- I'm really late aren't I? I wanted to leave ASAP but so many people held me back so it was difficult for me to leave the lobby. Gossip reporters were standing in the line waiting for me in front of the building. I think the media is still going crazy over my marriage. - Jumin tried to explain.
I love Jumin. I love Jumin with all my heart. But two days of doing absolutely nothing was starting to get on my nerves. I'm an workaholic just like him, being unemployed is my worst nightmare and the stress of that plus the stress from the party finally made me realize that they were there for some time now. I said nothing to him and waited for he to spit out all of his excuses.
- Are you angry that I'm late? - He asked worried. - I'm sorry. How I can make up to you? I really want to send you home. I even talked to V about it. But… I can't exclude the possibility that the hacker that made Luciel like that knows the address to your apartment. I'd rather have you stay another night than put you in danger… I've decided that we should go to the party together tomorrow.
- What...? But…? - I started. I was a bit offended because he had promised me on the chat we would decide things together from now on.
- V sounded so suspicious when I talked to him on the phone. I couldn't just let it go. I may be overreacting… but I think it's better to react when it concerns safety. This house has the best security system than any other place you know. And… - He held my hand. - aside for safety, I just think that his place is too large for me to stay all by myself. I'm honestly happy to spend another day with you.
- So you're not taking Elizabeth back, Jumin...? - I asked.
- Apparently, V took her… I haven't made my mind about her… But I still think that V will give her the love she deserves.
I had too much stuff going on my head now that I needed some time do think before I went all rampage on Jumin. Someone knocking on the door gave me the time I needed.
- Who is knocking at this hour… Is it a security guard? - Jumin asked the question in my mind. - Come in.
- Uhm… sir. - The security guard started.
- What's going on? - Jumin demanded.
- Someone called V from the RFA has come to see you sir.
- V?... I see. Let him in.
- And… he's brought your catt, sir.
Jumin went mute. For him facing V was one thing, but facing V with Elizabeth was another completely different thing.
- Let them both in. - Jumin responded.
- Yes, sir. - The security guard said before going out and giving passage to V.
To see V in the game was one thing, to see him actually standing in front of me was impressive. His beautiful mint colored hair was eye catching, the plain clothes he used were odd on his body. Elizabeth jumped from V's arms and went straight from the couch beside me, where she curled up and started to purr loudly. They both looked like they were on a staring competition, despite V's blindness.
- V… I thought I'd get to meet you tomorrow. - I broke the silence.
- I talked with Jumin on the phone earlier, but I don't think I made myself clear, so I came here myself. - V said.
- You came for me then. - Jumin Added. - Your eyes?
- They are fine for now. - V tried to dismiss.
- Elizabeth seems to be happy to be home. - I started my slapping combo. - And V, if your eyes are bad, you should get treatment. - I gave V the best "I know your secrets" look I knew he would see.
- Seeing her curl up on that sofa over there…. - He started. - I see that too… - he said looking at me.
Ha. Smart guy.
- She would stay there doing nothing for hours. - Jumin noted, getting some meows from Elizabeth.
- What a peaceful cat. She must like the scent in your house. - V said to Jumin.
- I suppose we think differently then. If you've read the messages, you'd know that she went missing… and that I want to give her back to you. I told you all of this on the phone earlier.
- Yes… are you really not going to keep her...? - V asked Jumin.
- I'm still thinking about it., but I can't stop thinking that she will be more happy with you. - Jumin said.
- What do you think, Angelique? - V asked me.
I was surprised. I thought I would only watch the clash of these two titans before me. Those two were the big league I was ready to hit them with all I had, but things were going smoother than I expected. Apparently it surprised Jumin as well.
- Why are you asking her?
- She's the one who's seen you closely the past couple of days. Perhaps she is more objective about you than you are yourself.
- Jumin can be a good owner for that pet. - I said to V. - I hope you give yourself a second chance. - The latter part was for Jumin.
- … I already know you think that way. But… it's not that simple. It'll be a challenge for me to accept Elizabeth the 3rd simply as a pet… but to be honest… - Jumin said.
- Is there something else? - V asked surprised.
- Yes. - Jumin answered.
- What is it?
- Please listen to me and seriously consider keeping Elizabeth.
- Alright.
- Whenever I see Elizabeth the 3rd, I remember Rika.
- She gave her to you as a gift, so of course. - V agreed.
- It's not that simple. The way I thought of rika was much more complicated than you think… Rika could see how twisted I was when she was alive. I didn't know then, but I had relied on her. So when she gave me Elizabeth the 3rd… I remember her telling me to take good care of her. As a habit, I kept seeing Rika in that cat. I imagined the warmth and deep understanding that Rika had would be in that cat too. There was never a time I didn't think of Rika while I was looking at that cat. So… When Elizabeth the 3rd ran away from me, V… I thought that you should be the one to have her, not me. Because you're the one who loved Rika most… I don't deserve her.
V remained silent for a god awful amount of time. The need I had to hit the two of them was turning into panic. If I were counting on luck still, would this be the moment where Jumin realizes he was in love with Rika and send me away for good? I reached out for Jumin's hand which he held back, calming my trembling resolve.
- I have so much to sort out in my mind for me to keep her. - Jumin added.
- Jumin… I think you should think about how Elizabeth would feel. - I said. After all, the cat had no blame of remembering him someone so bad.
- I've thought about it enough… She will be happier in your hands, V. She needs someone who can love her for what she is…
- That is such a simple way to consider this. - V said, surprising Jumin.
- Why? I don't think I'm wrong in this matter. - Jumin argued.
- First… Please, don't involve Rika in this matter. - I saw a little of a bitter taste on his voice. Was him growing tired of Rika? - This was Elizabeth's home for years. But because of your choice, her home will change, her owner will change. Don't think that you know what Elizabeth will feel. - V was hitting Jumin hard. - You've always been in a position where you calculated things yourself and make the decision. How much can you understand about a cat when you've never been in her position?
- I agree with, V… - I said.
- Hum… It's true I was taught to think like an executive. Perhaps both of you may be right. Humans can only judge things according to their own standards. I'm still learning how to understand and respect others. If this is the most comfortable place for Elizabeth the 3rd… - Jumin crossed his arms, still holding my hand. - but…!
- But again? - V asked.
- V, do you think I can be a good owner? - Jumin asked.
- You have a lot of questions…
- I'm not 100% sure about this, so I just want to know other opinions.
- Yeah, I guess that's how you were all the time. I remember in elementary school during art class when we had to draw a house, you badgered the teacher with questions. - V smiled. - You practically drew a blueprint for that house and wrote down emergency procedures in case of natural disasters.
- That's very nostalgic… but I'm serious right now. - Jumin complained.
- I'll tell you then. You will be a great owner. - V rested his hand on Jumin's shoulder.
For some reason, that small gesture made me blush. Maybe the way Jumin and V got along, or the way they chatter made it look that what V was actually saying was that jumin would be a great father and we were discussing my pregnancy.
- Alright. Lastly. Angelique… You've already told me your thoughts, but I'll ask again. Do you think I should take in Elizabeth the 3rd again?
- I've told you this many times before… but, yes. You will take very good care of her. - I calmed Jumin.
- Since you're saying that.. I feel like it'll be true. - Jumin smiled.
- that's a very illogical answer considering it's you… - V noted surprised.
- Angelique's encouragement helps me a lot. - Jumin explained. - Alright. If Elizabeth the 3rd doesn't hate me… and if it's ok that I'm not the best owner… Fine.
- Yes! - V cheered. - I'm glad you decided that. Rika picked her out just for you… take good care of her.
- Thanks for the advice.
- But I honestly didn't realize that she reminded you of Rika… - V looked startled at me. - Oh! I hope you're not too surprised, Angelique.
- I'm in Jumin's heart now. It's ok. - I said, looking at Jumin and getting a smile from him. - Besides, we have talked about it a lot.
- Thank you…. My feelings towards you will never change, Angelique. - Jumin Smiled again. - And I realized something again. That I haven't been letting you decide on your own when you can go home. I'm sorry if I seemed like I was forcing my way on you. - Jumin said embarrassed.
- Does that mean… you'll send her back? - V asked.
- I've kept her with me long enough, so I'd like to if she is safe… but V, you have to swear that she is safe. - Jumin said.
- I told you over the phone. She's safe…
- That's not enough. I need you to swear to me. Considering all the secrets you know, is Angelique safe to be on her own until the party? Please be honest with me…
- Swear… - V thought out loud.
- I tend to believe in numbers more than in words, but if you are sincere, I'll believe you. That's what I need right now.
- Alright. I swear that Angelique will be absolutely safe on her own… I swear by everything I have. Is that enough? - V said.
- … I should have sent you sooner, Angelique. I'm sorry. And thank you for being so patient when I was being stubborn.
- You are amazing, Angelique. I never thought Jumin would make me swear on anything. - V said to me.
- It's okay. - I smiled to both. - Thanks to you, V, I think everything is working out! - I added.
- I'm honored you said that. - V said.
- V, let me ask you a couple of things after Angelique leaves, although I don't know if you'll answer them.
- What? - V asked for an example.
- Do you have any idea why Elizabeth the 3rd was there?
- Oh… that's… I'll tell you someday. But for now.. I'm sorry.
I glared at V, making him nod, agreeing with me that someday we would have to reveal the truth to the other RFA members. That level of secrecy had to end one day for everyone to be able to move on and be happy.
- I'll trust V. He's your friend. - I said to calm Jumin.
- Alright.. I won't ask anything for now.
- Yes. We should take Angelique home right now. - V said.
- Angelique, I think we really have to part ways now. We'll see each other tomorrow… but I'd like to start fresh from then. You have to take the dress I got… okay?
- Alright, Jumin. - I smiled.
- I'm sorry and thank you. Please don't forget how I feel while we are apart.
- You really have changed - V said to Jumin.
I went to get my stuff and the dress from the closed and the two men accompanied me back to my home. It was weird to kiss Jumin in front of someone for the first time not in a tense situation, even if we had done it a thousand times in the other nights. Once inside the apartment I watched them go and went to my almost forgotten night routine. I had just gotten out of the shower when Jumin called me.
- It's me. I hope you went inside safely. - he said. - I can't handle your emptiness. I feel like there's a giant hole in the middle of the house… I want you to come back… but next time. I've felt so many emotions I have never even felt before while being with you. Amongst that, missing you and loneliness are being too harsh… - He paused. - But I'm sure this will let us mature further as people. I realized I need to become more mature for you. It's strange. Elizabeth the 3rd is back, but all I can think about is you. This is so different.
- I miss you too. - I said.
- Then I must find a way to live together as soon as possible. We have to get through the party first, but I should start thinking about it…. No, I'm opposed to living together before marriage, so… Let's just think about tomorrow's party for now. There's something I really want to say to you right now. To be honest, this is what I wanted to say the most… from the moment you took my heart.
- What is it?
- I love you. - He said, making me blush. - I love you so much. No matter how many times I say it, it's not enough. Is this what people feel when they find an oasis in the middle of a desert…?
From amongst my stuff I found Jumin's pijamas he had left from the night we spent together in here. It still had the smell of post shower cologne. I totally ignored panties, jumping into his garments and into bed.
- Desert explorers gradually get used to the thirst. But when they discover an oasis and their dry lips and tongue hit the water, they feel more thirsty than they've ever felt and gulp down the water. That's exactly how I feel towards you. I want to drink up your entire oasis and have all of you inside of me.
- I am your private oasis, Jumin. - I flirted.
- So cute. - His voice was deep. - So unbelievably cute. I want to run over and hug you.. But the party is tomorrow so I'll have to be as patient as I can. I'm very proud of this party, as we've together for it. I hope you have sweet dreams today. I want to dream about you so I don't feel the emptiness you've left behind. And tomorrow I'll open my happy eyes and go see you… The party will be so much fun. It's an important day tomorrow so I don't wish to bother you any further. See you tomorrow, my love.
- Jumin… - I called him.
- Yes?
- I'm wearing your pijamas.
- You get more cute by the minute.
- It still has your perfume… do you mind if I do this tonight?
- Is there any other piece of my clothing you would like to have tonight? - He flirted back and I giggled.
- good night, Jumin. See you tomorrow.
- good night, my love.
We hang up. I was feeling like a teengaer again. It has been quite a long time since I last felt like that, I even had give up on it a while ago. This excitement I had was new, it warmed me and left me up almost the entire night. The blue dress Jumin gave me was a beacon of light for me, the hope of a better future, or, at least, a chance to live something good.
On the next morning I got up early, put Jumin's pijamas to wash and started to get ready for the party. There were some few late guests to answer emails from, and everyone was on about the party today on the chat. I spent most of my lunch trying to figure out what to do on my hair, deciding to go with a braided updo, applied some light make-up. Finally it was time for me to go. The security guard I had saw clear V's entrance at Jumin's house came to pick me up to take me safely to the party.
At the location were already a bunch of reporters with Zen giving them an interview on the new production he would be working on. I walked by the side of them to get to Jaehee. I wanted to avoid Sarah and Glam Choi all the way if possible. When I saw the Assistant, I waved at her and quickly went to met her.
- You are here! We were waiting for you. - Jaehee said. - I'm sure Mr. Han gave you a lot of trouble.
- Gaahh… Jaehee… - Yoosung popped out of nowhere. - Why are there so many reporters? I was almost crushed on my way here. - He finally realized I was there. - Angelique! Hi! Thank you so much for making this party possible…! And for warming up Jumin's heart.- The boy smiled.
- I was about to tell her that as well. - Jaehee added.
- Your eyes are so pretty…! - Yoosung said impressed. - Jumin is a lucky man.
- I hope that the party goes well today, and the best happiness for the two of you. - Jaehee impressed me.
- Me too! - Yoosung completed. - Jaehee. The reporters seem to be fighting over camera spots…
- I really had no idea we'd have this many people here… - Jaehee confessed.
- Glam Choi and Sarah came too… The reporters are going crazy trying to get their photos.
- Yes, I saw them earlier. Both of them seemed to be wearing chiffon dresses.
- Ugh… Everyone is making such a fuss about lining up to take Glam Choi's photo. And Sarah is dressed for a red carpet event too. I feel like this is some celebrity party rather than an RFA party… Angelique's here too… Sarah's getting super excited blabbering about Jumin. The reporters should be interested in our organization or V's photographs… - Yoosung vented out.
- I'm sure that Mr. Han will take care of it once he comes.
- When is he coming by the way…?
I lost myself there for a moments observing what Yoosung had pointed out. In fact, Sarah and Glam Choi were all over the reportes. They even abandoned Zen to get their photos and statements. How could those reportes could be so blind? No Elite family would like to have the media all over their faces all the time, it was so obvious that they were up to something.
- Yup! Angelique, see you inside later. And don't think about Sarah too much. - Yoosung said before getting away.
- I don't know I haven't heard from Mr. Han Yet. - Jaehee said looking at her phone before giving her attention to me again. - I think you should stay by my side so Sarah doesn't see you.
- Agreed. - I said.
- Jaehee! Zen called.
- Hello, Zen! - Jaehee blushed.
- Gahh… I almost died! It's nice to be interviewed but they took so many photos of me that I can't see anything right now…
- You look great… you have no choice. Besides, Glam, Sarah and Mr. Chairman will be here too… The reporters are going crazy.
- The attention is flattering… but it's almost embarrassing to hear that I'm good looking over and over. - He blushed.
- Such a narcissist. - I joked.
- Hmm… Who is that lady beside you? Is she a fan of mine? - Zen winked for me. - It's nice to see you out of your cage, Angelique.
- You mean - I laughed.
- I hope Jumin hasn't given you too much trouble. Today's a good day, so you can be totally honest! - Zen held my hands between his.
- Haha… Angelique seems happy in my eyes. I don't think you have to worry about her and Mr. Han.
- Humph, that jerk… - He pouted. - Oh, right. Jaehee, you know that Mr. Han is going to be here right?
- Is he here already? - Jaehee asked.
- I think he came through the back gack a couple minutes ago. But he didn't seem too happy… Is everything okay? - Zend asked.
- I'm sure it will be fine.. As long as Mr. Han gets here.
- Why is he so late?
- I don't know. He should be arriving any moment… - Jaehee said.
- How can he invite his so-called fiance to the party that Angelique is hosting…? I won't stay still if he doesn't take care of this situation. - Zen winked for me again.
Zen was a nice distraction until the real deal began. We kept chatting a bit more until Jaehee pointed some reporters fighting to come fo him and him running inside the hall to hide and take a short break from all the spotlight. When I saw the red haired hacker come to us, my heart got tight. I wanted to make something for him, he was trying his best to hide how sad he was.
- Oh! Angelique! You are here! - Seven said.
- Hello, Seven! - Jaehee greeted.
- Heya, Seven! - I smiled for him.
- Jumin arrived right after Mr. Han… Did you see V? - Seven asked.
- Did Mr. Han come in? I haven't seen the three of them at all.
- Where did he go…? - Seven wondered.
- Anyways, so Mr. han arrived?
- Yeah, I just talked to him in there.
- Everyone must be so busy that they didn't even say hello…
- Jumin told me to bring Angelique… Can I take her?
- Is there a problem?
- Nothing that I know of. I'm sure he just misses her.
- I'll go inside once things are settled here. Please escort Angelique then. And be especially careful since Sarah is here. - Jaehee said.
- Alright. Then see you inside in a while! Angelique, will you follow me? - Seven offered his hand for me.
- Yes, of course. - I replied, taking his hand. - See you later Jaehee.
- Yes, see you later, Angelique. - Jaehee said.
I followed Seven inside the hall, we walked to near the stage in a strategic place where we could see everything and still have an escape route in case anything goes bad. The place just had a few people around, so we could spare a few minutes talking before the chaos. Seven stopped in front of me, his worried expression was dark and somber.
- Uhm.. I'm telling you this now, but when you first started to talk to us, you spoke to someone you don't know… I'm so glad that nothing bad happened to you. - Seven held my hands gently. - Angelique. You really can't download just any app from now on, alright?
Seven had tears on his eyes, which made my tears try to come free to. I smiled and took out his glasses to wipe the tears from him. At first he was startled, but then he accepted the gesture like a scared little kid.
- Seven, can I ask you something? - I asked, giving his glasses back.
- Yes, of course.
- I have to tell you something, but you can't ask me how I know it. Will you trust me?
- Angelique… what.. ?
- Please, Luciel. Can you trust me?
- Luciel…? - Seven wiped some leftover tears. - Alright. I'll trust you.
- Thank you. - I hugged him. - I'll will give you a happy ending, Saeyong. With your brother by your side.
- how….?! - Seven asked surprised.
- Luciel! Here! - V called.
- Focus, Defender of Justice. Time to work.- I whispered to Seven.
- V… - Seven said still in shock.
- Angelique… it feels so different to see you outside Jumin's home. Please take good care of him from now on. _ He said to me before turning to Seven. - And… I'm sorry I avoided your calls, Luciel. - V said to a still frozen Seven.
- And Jumin? - A recovered Seven asked.
- Oh, he left saying that he need to prepare for something. He'll be back right away. And…
- Yeah? - Seven added.
- I understand how frustrated you are. Let's talk once the party is over. For real this time.
- Alright.
That heavy conversation had kept us from noticing that Sarah and Glam Choi had brought the party inside. When Glam Choi stepped on the stage and started to mess with the microphone, she locked everyone's attention on the event again. Me and Seven quickly updated V on what was going on and who was Glam Choi.
- First, I would like to thank you all so much for coming to this party. - Glam Choi started. - The reason why so many people have showed up is to celebrate two people who are starting a new life together.
- No way… - Seven thought out loud.
- Everyone must know by now. It's about Jumin Han and the lovely Sarah.
- Huh? What is this about? - V asked.
I grabbed Seven's arm. I was shaking head to toe. Could have Jumin really changed his mind and chose to marry Sarah instead of dating me… If so, why he said such things for me last night? Could possibly his father convinced him against his will?
- Where the hell is Jumin? - Seven asked, placing his hand on top of mine to try to calm me down.
- Only rumors have been going around recently. And I am so glad to be able to tell everyone the truth in front of my dear man right here. - Glam Choi kept on.
- It's C&R's Jumin Han! Take photos! Now! - A reporter pointed.
- There he is. - V said.
- Where? - Seven asked.
- He's going up on the stage… through that crowd over there.
- Thank god. - Seven breathed.
- Sweet mother of the frozen hell… - The air escaped my lungs, making Seven smile.
Sweet mother of the frozen hell indeed. He looked beautiful in that tuxedo. Jumin was serious and focused as he got up the stage, being slightly annoyed by the presence of Glam Choi on the stage.
- Please excuse me. - Jumin said in his usual cold tone.
- Oh my, Jumin. - Glam sung.
- The RFA in the host of this party, after all.
- Oh, excuse my manners. I apologize. Everyone, please give a big round of applause for the man of the hour, Jumin Han! - Glam offered the microphone.
Everyone present on the room clapped. Jumin walked in front of the mic and waited for the silence again. A short after, only the camera's shutters and flashed echoed in the room.
- Hello. I'm Jumin Han, a member of the RFA. Today's party is RFA's charity party to help those in need. I have to apologize for starting the party with my personal story. - He smiled for his father. - Father, you're in the front of the stage. And Luciel, V, the photographer and beside them is my lady Angelique, another member. I'm so glad you all arrived safely.
- Oh! He's looking at us. - Seven pointed and we waved for Jumin.
- Haha, this is embarrassing. - V said.
- The RFA party is held to help those who are marginalized, those in unfortunate situations where happiness is barely reachable. - Jumin continued. - We used to auction off photographer V's photographs… and donate the profit to charity. But, I have abused my authority to invite people who are not related to the party, my father, Glam Choi, Sarah and all the reporters… The reason why I invited so many people is to announce a very important piece of news to everyone. I apologize in advance to those who mace here with good intentions. What I'm about to say is very personal. So if you find it boring, I heard that the cocktails shrimps are very good, so help yourselves.
This is it. The moment of truth. I clawed Seven's arm, to which he complained a little. I'm going to hit Jumin really hard if he doesn't stop meddling.
- I can't think of who wouldn't be interested in this… - V pointed.
- Yeah, this is getting interesting. Angelique, relax, it will be okay. - Seven said. - He called you as "his lady", after all.
- Until recently, I' never paid attention to gossip or rumors… and I had no interest in dating. My duty was to do the work given to me, and I thought time and energy spent on emotions would be a waste. I was very skeptical about love itself. As a result, I achieved success at a very young age. But I didn't know how to truly appreciate, show care, encourage, and to thank other people… I thought that I'd never be able to love… but one person has come along to teach me how important is to share my emotions.
- Is that person… over there Sarah?! I can't really see. Her dress makes her look like a giant cake. - V asked Seven.
- Yeah.. She can't hold back her smile right now.
- Thanks to her, I'm able to truly enjoy the work I previously did mechanically… and little by little I was able to express encouragement and gratitude towards others with sincerity… I couldn't help but fall in love with this beautiful person who warmed up my stone cold heart. - Jumin said with a smile.
I started to release Seven's arm, focused on what Jumin was saying. I was about to give a step forward when the hacker held me, asking for me to wait for the whole show that was yet to come.
- Mr. Han! Are you acknowledging the rumors?! - A reporter asked.
- How long have you actually known each other? - A second reporter asked.
- From the first moment we met, she kindly listened to me… She understood me when I could barely understand myself. She is the only woman in my life who has taught me how to fill my life with warmth. We have not seen each other for long, but I am already so much in love with her. - Jumin continued.
The room exploded in questions again. My eyes were up on the stage, listening to what the man there had to say. It was strange see him do such an affectionate love confession with such naturality in front of so many people.
- The woman who took my heart... is called Angelique. - Jumin revealed.
- Who? - Heard a reporter ask.
- Huh? What the hell did he say!? - I heard Sarah scream. - Angelique…? The member he just mentioned...?
- Everyone! He is lying. - Glam tried to convince the reporters.
- Just take photos! - A third reporter said.
- The flash is suddenly coming this way. - V pointed.
- Angelique, you have to smile right now. - Seven warned me.
I smiled for the few cameras that pointed at me before Jumin started to speak again, saving me from the stampede of reporters that were about to happen.
- She is in the RFA with me, She is the person who made this party possible, instead of Rika… - Jumin informed.
- No! I'm still going up there... ! Don't stop me! I can't stand it anymore! - Sarah screamed again.
- Sarah! - Glam Choi called.
- Jumin, what are you talking about?! I gave you everything! - Sarah said on stage to Jumin.
- That's interesting, How can you give everything to a man who doesn't even know your phone number? - Jumin asked.
- He doesn't have her phone number? Take photos now! - A reported noted.
- Since you've come up here, why don't I introduce you to all the reporters. This woman here is Sarah Choi who leaked false rumors to the media into buying her ghost company. - Jumin exposed.
- Finally the truth. That's the info I gave to Jaehee. - Seven revealed.
- Haha, how dramatic. You have to admit, that guy has style. - V said.
- Everyone must know the relationship between Chairman Han and Glam Choi. This is Sarah Choi. Glam Choi's sister. - Jumin continued.
Amongst all the voices, I could hear Jumin's dad, but could not understand what he said in the middle of the confusion. My phone was vibrating nonstop in my purse, but that was the least of my worries.
- Glam Choi Meticulously planned to have her sister marry me. Once her sister's business failed, she gave her a fake ID and made her get plastic surgery and then she approached my father. She insisted on an arranged marriage, and spread false rumors to the celebrity news reporters. So many ridiculous articles were published with no proof… I must add, if you are going to report on what I'm saying right now, please clarify the source and write accurately. The reporters here will need materials to write their articles, so please request it to C&R. We already have all the material, and we are preparing for a lawsuit.
- This is amazing! Oh my god…! - a reporter shouted.
- Quick, cameras on Sarah's face! - Another said.
- You can write… The actress Glam Choi has prepared a meticulous plan for her sister to marry C&R's Director Jumin Han, and approached Chairman Han of C&R to arrange the marriage.
The media went bananas again, raging Sarah out of her mind. She started to scream at the reporters while she was still on stage. The flashed were made the entire room bright, enough to even V notice it.
- Yeah. I see Jaehee way over there… looks super angry.
- Security, my father looks very tired so take him home. I would like to have dinner with him after the party. And Sarah… I suggest you leave the stage if you don't want to completely ruin your reputation. - Jumin helped even now.
- Ugh… No…! I won't leave you like this! - Sarah insisted on her mistake.
- Yes, we'll see each other at court.
Sarah and the reportes kept their little scene going on for a while. Glam Choi disappeared and Mr. Chairman left the party before the reporters could get to him. The stampede turned to me and Seven came to my rescue, putting himself in front of me and started to control the chaos of the media. Jaehee and Yoosung came quickly to aid him and they gave the media a space where they could stay to get some attention. But even that wasn't enough for Jumin Han.
- I've given the story you want… so now I will step down from the stage and go see Angelique. Enjoy the party, everyone. - Jumin announced.
- … What did I just hear? - Jaehee panicked out for me.
- If I heard right… - V said.
- Did he really have to say where he's going in the middle of this chaos? - Jaehee ranted with good reason.
- Arrghh! GIGANTIC SCOOP! Oh lord! Thank you for sending me here! - A reporter shouted.
- Follow Jumin Han! Right now! - A reporter with hawk eyes demanded.
It almost started a fight between the security guards and the reporters, especially when Jumin walked down to us. The poor RFA members were doing the best they could to help the bodyguard to control the situation. Jaehee became V's guardian, suggesting to take him to another place.
- Oh, I'd like to go… but I feel like Jumin's going to do something crazy soon, so I need to stay here and watch. - I heard V say.
- What...? - Jaehee said.
- Let's just say that I get a vibe… being his friend for so long… I feel like something very romantic will happen soon… - V added in a whisper to Jaehee.
- If he gives more scoops to the reporters… the original purpose of this party will be lost.
- It is already lost, the way I see it. - V said.
Jumin came in my direction. God, he looked good. That messy hair, the boyish smile, he straightening his cuffs. As he got closer, he offered his hand to me and I took it. The moment I felt my hand on his, the world felt easier. I was with him now. He would take us out this mess he created.
- You wore the dress I gave you. - He smiled. - I'm sorry I couldn't come to see you as soon as I came.
- Mr. Han… you are not going to do anything right now, are you? - An ignored Jaehee asked.
- Everyone, thank you so much for everything. - Jumin turned to look at me. - Angelique...I missed you.
- I missed you too, Jumin. - I smiled.
- You waited long, right? I'm sorry about all the fuss. I hope you realize how much you need to be appreciated and loved.. There's a whole audience out there for you now…
Jumin kneeled in front of me, still holding my hand and his boyish smile on his face, his free hand went behind his back closed and he kissed my fingers before looking at me again.
- J-Ju… min… - I froze.
Jumin just kept smiling.
- Angelique.. You've opened a new chapter in my life. I love you so much… and I want you to always be with me forever. - He moved his fingers behind his back. - Will you let me.. Be your life companion?
I froze for a second. He was asking me in marriage!
- … Yes! - I finally answered, giving him the cue to place the engagement ring he had secretly bought and getting up.
- My love. - He said, stroking my cheek with his thumb. - We should kiss for the cameras. - He said before he kissed me.
- OH MY GOD! CAMERAS ON THEM! NOW! - The reporters screamed.
- I can't believe you did this…! - I whispered with a big smile.
- As I said, All in or all out. - Jumin replied.
- Mr. Han! When will be the wedding? - A reporter asked.
- The official schedule will be available at C&R within a few days. - Jumin said. - For now, please enjoy the party. There is still the auction for everyone to enjoy.
More reporters shouted questions at us, but I, Jumin and the other RFA members went to another room to cool down and breathe for a little while. Once inside the room, Jaehee closed and locked the door behind all of us. She seemed in the verge of a rage attack and Zen went to her side to calm her down. Yoosung and Seven were all excited around me before reality struck.
- Oooh… look at the size of that dimond! - Yoosung said holding my hand.
- I bet I can buy a new car with that! - Seven completed.
- Jumin Han….! - I called him.
- Yes, my angel? - He said with his boyish smile.
- I am so going to hit you!
- Why? You didn't like it?
- I was having a panic attack with that vage speech. I thought I would die. - I placed my hand over my eyes
- I saw you were holding Luciel's arm. - Jumin smiled.
- You call that holding? She was clawing at my arm! You know how sharp her nails are? - Seven provoked me. - The poor thing was shaking head to toe.
- Shaking? Why? - Jumin asked again.
- A voice in the back of my head was saying you would pick Sarah. - I explained.
Jumin held me in his arms and kissed me again in front of everyone. There was something different on what he was doing. It seemed more firm and in control, but not less passionate. When the released me, I hid in his chest, too shy to face the others.
- Enough with the spotlights… let me just hide here for a moment. - I said and he laughed.
- You deserve all the spotlights… - Jumin said.
- Mr. Han! - Jaehee called.
- Yes, Assistant Kang?
- What are we going to do with the party now?
- Start the auction. We will join in and I'll go see my father right after it ends.
- And about Angelique?
- See security to leave her home. - Jumin said.
- Actually, I would like to go to the penthouse. There are some stuff I'll like to talk to V and Seven tonight. - I said, watching Jumin's eyes burn in expectation.
- Don't you want to meet Jumin's dad? - Yoosung asked.
- I want. But not tonight. Jumin made quite a show out there, he must be angry with what happened. - I said.
- Precisely. - Jumin agreed. - We need another big entrance to get the media's attention to the auction now. - Jumin announced. - I'll try to buy some of V's photos to get the other guests encouraged. We will finish the auction with one of Zen's songs.
- Jumin... You don't need to buy them. - V said.
- Yeah! I won't do any favors to you! - Zen protested.
- Nonsense. - Jumin smiled. - This will work perfectly. - He tuned to Jaehee. - Assistant Kang. You go with the others first. Get us all seats in the front row. And Zen, this is a chance for you to promote yourself. This will only boost your career. I'll leave with Angelique shortly after.
- Alright, Mr. Han. - Jaehee said.
Jaehee called the other party organizers and ordered them to prepare the auction. They left first to save us the seats and to organize the media in the auction room. Me and Jumin stayed behind waiting for Jaehee's signal when everything would be prepared.
While we were alone, Jumin's eyes burned in lust, he held me close to him. His lips kissed me from the collarbone up to my lips. It was good that the media took a long time to settle in, so we had a lot of time to kiss as we liked.
- Be careful tonight, my love… I'm just too happy to control myself. - Jumin purred.
- Jumin… behave… - I breathed and Jumin's phone ringged.
- I don't know if it is the best or the worst timing… - He picked it up. - Yes, Assistant Kang…. Yes, we will leave now then. - Jumin hung the phone and kissed me one more time. - It is our cue.
We got out and went to the auction holding hands. The media went crazy, they were taking photos during the whole event. Jumin's prediction was right, he started to bid on some photos and the other guests, even some bold reporters started to overbid him. The amount of profit raised was enormous and the party was a success.
All of us of the RFA left the party at the same time and Jumin went to see his dad. I went to the penthouse with V and Seven to have some chat about how I would turn right the depressive legacy Rika left behind.