Chapter 11: Dae-Hyun and Eun-Kyung – Part V
Disclaimer: I don't own these BOF characters, other than the new ones.
The main characters and F4 children:
So Yi Jeong and Chu Ga Eul's children: So Dae-Hyun, So Jae Hwa, So Dae-Jung, So Dae-Hwan, So Jae Eun and So Jae Ji. Deceased/Miscarried: So Dae-Ho.
Endearment: Dae-Hyun – Baby (until 7 years old), Jae Hwa – Darling, Dae-Jung – Baby (until Middle School), Dae-Hwan – Hwannie/Sweetheart, Jae Eun – Eunnie/Sweetheart, Jae Ji – Precious, Dae-Ho - Precious.
Song Woo Bin and Ha Jae Kyung's children: Song Eun-Kyung and Song Won-Bin.
Gu Jun Pyo and Geum Jan Di's children: Gu Jung-Hee, Gu Jung-Hwa and Gu Jee Ha.
Yoon Ji Hoo and Yoong Ha Eun's son: Yoon Joo-Won
Published: August 13, 2017
"SO DAE-HYUN! YOU!"
Woo Bin's face reddened, nostrils flaring and his eyes were cold, hard and flinty. In an instant, he was in front of the young man, two hands clutching Dae-Hyun's shirt and pushed him to the wall, hard.
"APPA!" "DARLING!"
"What did you do to my daughter?" He gritted his teeth and clenched his jaws.
Dae-Hyun cringed at the dangerous tone of the older man. His head throbbed from the contact with the wall but he had to endure. He had to face Uncle Woo Bin's wrath. He knew that he deserved the rage from the father of the girl whom he had wronged and hurt.
"APPA!"
"Darling," Jae Kyung held her husband's arms. "Let Dae-Hyun go, Darling. Let him explain."
Woo Bin's eyes pierced through Dae-Hyun's.
"Then explain!"
"Not like this, Darling. Let the boy go."
"Woo Bin!" "Dae-Hyun!"
Everybody turned to the door. Yi Jeong, Ga Eul, Ji Hoo, Ha Eun, Jun Pyo and Jan Di were there. All were shocked at the sight that beheld in front of them.
"Let go of my son, Woo Bin." Yi Jeong's voice was deep and firm.
With great hesitance, Woo Bin pushed away from the young man. Immediately, Ga Eul and Jan Di went to Dae-Hyun, while Woo Bin stepped back and joined his wife and daughter and looked at each one of the unexpected visitors.
"What are you all doing here?"
"I asked everybody to come, Uncle Woo Bin."
"What for? So that you can further shame my daughter by telling everybody that she's not worth to be with you?"
"Woo Bin!" "Darling!"
Yi Jeong went to Dae-Hyun and put his hand around his son's shoulders while Ga Eul still held the young man's arm.
"Woo Bin." Yi Jeong looked straight into Woo Bin's eyes. "I know that you're angry but Dae-Hyun asks us to come here. He wants to show Eun-Kyung that he is truly, truly sorry for everything. He…"
"So all of you knew and didn't tell me?" Clenching his fists, Woo Bin stared at each one of the F3. His pulse was speeding at 100 miles per hour.
"We just knew this morning." It was Jun Pyo.
"Dae-Hyun doesn't want to…"
"Why are you all talking on his behalf? Has he lost his voice?"
"Darling!"
"Woo Bin!" Ji Hoo shook his head. Ha Eun held his arm to calm him down.
"Appa…"
Eun-Kyung had wrapped her arms around Woo Bin's waist. Tears fell as she looked at the sad Dae-Hyun who was also looking at her. She did not want this to happen. She did not want their families to fight.
"Uncle Woo Bin, please let me explain. After that, you can do anything that you want to me; slap me, hit me, punch me, kick me, anything. I…"
"Dae-Hyun!" All the elders except for Woo Bin were shocked and the ladies gasped.
"Please, Uncle Woo Bin, Aunt Jae Kyung, Eun-Kyung."
Woo Bin stared at the young man as if wanting to eat Dae-Hyun alive. Then, he looked at his daughter. His heart broke when tears rolled down her face. She was looking at Dae-Hyun. He could see so many emotions in her eyes; sad, betrayed, hurt but to his surprise, there were also longing and love. Woo Bin frowned.
Love? But why? After all that Dae-Hyun had done to her?
Woo Bin peeled Eun-Kyung's arms from his waist, held her hand and walked out of the room. Eun-Kyung had to keep up with her Appa's pace. Jae Kyung then looked at the others and gestured that they followed Woo Bin.
Downstairs, in the living room, everybody was now seated. Woo Bin and his family together while the rest sat across them. The silence was deafening.
"Uncle Woo Bin, Aunt Jae Kyung."
Hands clasped together and heart galloping wild, Dae-Hyun straightened his back. It felt like he was in a court, defending his case, although he knew that the chances of forgiveness were as thin as a strand of hair. But he had to try and he was willing to take whatever punishment that came his way.
He then looked at Eun-Kyung. This would be his last chance of seeing her before he went back to New York.
"Eun-Kyung."
Her blank expression cut his feeling.
"I truly am sorry that I had hurt you and violated your trust. I know what I did was wrong. Yes, I know I could make excuses, but there are not any other than that I was being selfish. I am sorry that I caused you so much pain."
Eun-Kyung fiddled with her fingers. She tried to put up a strong face, but the tears were forcing their way out. Her heart thundered and she lowered her eyes to her fingers. Jae Kyung placed a hand over her daughter's hands when she noticed the young woman started to tremble.
Jun Pyo, Jan Di and Ji Hoo listened attentively. After Dae-Hyun relayed the news this morning at the So Mansion, they were shocked and sad. No wonder Jung-Hee always avoided talking about Dae-Hyun when Jun Pyo and Jan Di asked about the lad. Jung-Hee had already known all along.
"I messed up and I know it's all my fault. I've hurt you deeply. I am a bad person to have hurt you. You don't deserve the hurt and pain. I am really, really sorry, Eun-Kyung."
Shoulders shaking, Eun-Kyung finally wept. Jae Kyung, Ga Eul, Jan Di and Ha Eun were also in tears while the men felt for both Dae-Hyun and Eun-Kyung. Woo Bin, though, kept his icy stares on Dae-Hyun. His breathings, heavy. There were so many things that he wanted to do to this young man. Nobody hurt his daughter. Nobody. Not even this young man that he had loved like his own.
All these years, of all the people in this world, Dae-Hyun was the last person that he thought would want to hurt Eun-Kyung. It never once crossed his mind since Dae-Hyun was so in love with his Eun-Kyung since they were young.
"You disappoint me, Dae-Hyun."
"Darling." Jae Kyung held his arm.
Everybody looked up at him but Dae-Hyun just nodded. He deserved that, he admitted.
"What if something bad happened to Eun-Kyung when she was there while you were out having fun with that girl? Are you going to take responsibilities? And what did you do to her afterward?"
"Appaaa…"
"Darling…"
Dae-Hyun closed his eyes. The thought, obviously, did not come to his mind at that time. He cursed himself in his head for he did not know how many times now.
"I am sorry, Uncle Woo Bin, Aunt Jae Kyung, Eun-Kyung. I really regret all my wrongdoings."
"Woo Bin, Dae-Hyun really is sorry. He admitted that he was wrong. He's not going to repeat the mistake."
"Of course you'd say that, Yi Jeong. He's your son." Woo Bin glared at the potter.
"Woo Bin!" Ji Hoo and Jun Pyo protested.
"Darling?"
Jan Di and Ha Eun were slack-mouthed.
Yi Jeong nodded at the worried Ga Eul. He knew that Ga Eul feared if he would lose his patience and temper.
Then, he looked at the F2 and gave a small smile.
"Woo Bin, I understand that you are angry and that you don't want anything bad to happen to Eun-Kyung. We don't want that too, Woo Bin. Eun-Kyung is like our daughter too. But I'm not saying this just because Dae-Hyun is my son. Even if he isn't, I believe that when someone has admitted his mistakes and asked for forgiveness, when he has repented and hopes for a second chance, we should give him that chance. All of us here have been given a second chance, Woo Bin."
"Darling…" Jae Kyung tightened her hold on Woo Bin's arm. He looked at her for a while, then at his daughter, then at Dae-Hyun and back to his daughter. Eun-Kyung was still in tears.
"I don't want him to hurt my Eun-Kyung again." He said to his wife, to which Jae Kyung nodded in understanding.
"Uncle Woo Bin, I won't hurt Eun-Kyung again, I promise."
Dae-Hyun then stood up and kneeled in front of Woo Bin. He then bowed low to the floor.
"Dae-Hyun…" Jae Kyung held his shoulder but he bowed lower.
"I truly am sorry and regret my mistakes, Uncle Woo Bin, Aunt Jae Kyung. Eun-Kyung, I had obviously hurt you but I will never do it again. Please give me another chance to show you that I love you. Please forgive me. If you just give me a small chance, I will prove to you that I'll be one of the best chances and decisions you'll ever make. "
"Sweetheart," Jae Kyung gently stroke her daughter's hair.
"Omma…"
"It's up to you, Sweetheart. Whatever your decision is, Appa and Omma are right beside you." Jae Kyung smiled approvingly.
The young woman looked around at all the hopeful faces of her uncles and aunts. Her eyes stopped at her Appa. She saw the worry in his eyes and she somewhat felt guilty for bringing her Appa and Omma into this hard situation.
But her heart…
"Dae-Hyun Oppa…"
The young man wanted to jump in joy as the sweetest voice, made more melodious calling his name, wafted through the air and into his ears. Oh, how he had missed her calling his name. In an instant, he sat up and looked at her, hopeful.
Eun-Kyung engaged her gaze on the man in front of her parents, her vision hazy from the warm liquids.
"I… forgive you."
Collected sounds of relief were heard. A wide smile immediately formed up on the young man's face, although it was a different expression on her Appa's.
"But…"
The room went silent again. Ga Eul, Yi Jeong and Dae-Hyun held their breaths.
"I… I can't accept you back…"
"Eun-Kyung?" The ladies gasped and Ga Eul clenched her fist over her heart. The F3, too, were shocked.
Dae-Hyun felt like his whole world had collapsed. The pain in his heart was excruciating.
"…yet."
All the people in the room looked at her, again, surprised. But Dae-Hyun was the happiest. There was still hope… a chance.
"You hurt me deeply, Oppa. I don't know if…. I… I need some space and time to think about this. I'm sorry."
She suddenly stood up, bowed to the elders and ran out of the room, wiping the tears away.
"Sweetheart."
"I'm sorry, I need to go to Eun-Kyung." Jae Kyung then rushed out of the room and went to seek for her daughter.
Head hung low, Dae-Hyun's shoulders shook with his cry. Ga Eul then went to him and held him.
"It's alright, Dae-Hyun. It's alright. At least, Eun-Kyung is giving you a chance. She's giving herself a chance too. She needs more time to think." Ga Eul whispered into her son's ear as she embraced him tightly.
"Omma…"
"Woo Bin," Ji Hoo looked at the man and Woo Bin immediately stood up.
"You heard Eun-Kyung. Whatever her decision is, Jae Kyung and I are with her. Dae-Hyun, if Eun-Kyung accepts you back, you'd better not hurt her again. I'll be watching you. Now if you all will excuse me, I need to check on my daughter."
"Woo Bin." Yi Jeong held his best friend's shoulder as Woo Bin walked pass him by.
"I'm sorry for all these, Woo Bin but thank you. Thank you for giving Dae-Hyun a chance. I'll personally make sure that he'll get it first from me if he ever hurt Eun-Kyung, again. I assure you that. And I hope that this will not create a gap between our families. But thank you, again, Woo Bin. Ga Eul, Dae-Hyun and I, we really appreciate it."
Woo Bin slightly nodded his head and left.
Dae-Hyun quickly hugged his Appa. Jan Di and Ha Eun then went to Ga Eul to appease the teary-eyed mother. Meanwhile, Jun Pyo and Ji Hoo watched with sad faces. It was really a valuable lesson for Dae-Hyun.
Everybody left the Song Mansion not long after. At their cars, Jun Pyo, Jan Di, Ji Hoo and Ha Eun hugged Dae-Hyun and offered comforting words and advice. They told him not to give up on Eun-Kyung if he truly loved her. As Jan Di put it, "Love is not always rainbows and flowers and sunshine. Love is at its sweetest after the couple, together, has successfully gone through hurdles and tests.
The elders also wished Dae-Hyun good luck for his study since he would be graduating soon. They did not want him to neglect his study because of this. Yes, it would be hard for Dae-Hyun, but he had to try.
On the day of his departure, Dae-Hyun dialed Eun-Kyung's number but it went to voicemail. He then left a message. He, too, sent the same message via SMS. He hoped that she would at least listen to and read the messages even if she did not want to reply them.
"Dearest Eun-Kyung,
My flight is in an hour. Wish you were here to send me off but I understand.
Thank you for forgiving me. I know that it's the hardest thing for you to do after what I've done but that's you, Eun-Kyung. You're the kindest person that I've ever known. It's one of the reasons why I love you.
But I guess I'm not worthy of talking about love, right? Yet, I sincerely do love you, Eun-Kyung and will always do even if you don't love me anymore.
I miss you and will always miss you.
Until then, wish you all the best in your part-time job and your study. I wish you all the happiness in this world too.
Take care, Eun-Kyung.
Love,
Dae-Hyun"
Curled in a ball on her bed, Eun-Kyung clutched her hand phone tightly over her chest. Tears fell uncontrollably.
"I'm sorry, Oppa. I'm sorry."
Everyday Dae-Hyun would send Eun-Kyung one message; either a text, a voicemail, a video or even a picture. The text and voice messages were simple "Hello", "Good morning", "Good day" "Good night", "Sweet dreams" and much more. But not once did he talk or write about himself.
The videos and pictures were similar. Never of him, rather the things that she loved or places that reminded him of their times together way back when.
At first, he debated if the messages were going to annoy Eun-Kyung but he then decided to proceed. He wanted to show her that he was accepting the fact that she needed time and space to think about them which was why his message on the departure day was the last message that said he loved her. He did not want to further force her. But he did not want her to forget about him either. He hoped that with the messages, she would at least know that he was still alive and thinking about her. He hoped that she would get his underlying messages.
Even if she never reply his messages, he was not giving up on her.
Two months later, Eun-Kyung was working on a paper at home. Her parents and Won-Won went to Aunt Jan Di and Uncle Jun Pyo's house for their monthly gathering. She could not go for she had to finish up an assignment.
Her Appa's relationship with Uncle Yi Jeong had somewhat changed. Appa was still hurt by what had happened that he found it hard to go back to how it was between them. Countless of times, her Omma had talked to him about it but he just could not. Every time he looked at Uncle Yi Jeong or the So family members, he would be reminded of Dae-Hyun and what he did to her. Her Omma reprimanded Appa that the other Sos were innocent and did not have any part or whatsoever in leading Dae-Hyun to do what he did. But Appa was just too hurt.
She had also talked to Appa about it but Appa's answer was, "As long as you are still hurt, I'm still hurt, Sweetheart." Eun-Kyung felt guilty.
She still loved him but needed time and space to heal her heart.
The hurt was still there, though bits by bits, it was fading away to become a scar. A scar – a permanent reminder that something hurtful had made a mark in her life but the pain would no longer be there.
All because of his messages.
She knew what he was doing. She understood his hidden messages.
Just then, a house staff knocked on her door. There was a package for her. It was a medium-sized box, with pretty large bow ribbons of her favorite colors: light green and yellow.
"From who?"
"A gentleman came and asked to give this to you, Miss."
Her heart beat wild. She recognized the handwriting on the small card tied to the ribbon to heart. It read: Happy Birthday, Eun-Kyung. May God's blessings always be with you. Be happy and healthy.
"Is he still here?"
"No, Miss. He just left."
Eun-Kyung carefully placed the box on her work table and sprinted out of the room, startling the house staff. She ran downstairs, nearly tripped and fell but was quick enough to hold on to the hand rails. She swore her heart never beat this loud. She rushed to the main door and went out. Her heart skipped a beat.
"OPPA! DAE-HYUN OPPA!"
The gentleman turned around and his breath hitched. He was just about to enter a car.
He almost fell backward at the sudden impact of her embrace. Her arms wrapped tightly around his waist and she buried her face against his chest, tears soaking his shirt. Instantly, he enclosed her tightly in his arms while trying to reel in the fact that she, the girl of his life, was truly in his arms at last. He wished that it was real, that this was not his hallucination. He did not want to let her go.
"Oppa. Are you going to leave me again?" Her body shook hard as she tightened her hold.
"No, Eun-Kyung. No. I won't leave you again. I promise."
"Oppa, I wanted to hate you but I can't, Oppa. This love, it doesn't want to leave. I miss you, Oppa. I love you."
Dae-Hyun's heart felt like bursting. For so long he had wondered if she still loved him and to hear her now, he wanted to scream in happiness. His patience was at last rewarded. His love had won. Tears trickled down his face.
"I love you too, Eun-Kyung. Only you."
They stood as they were. How long had it been? When was the last time that they were in each other's arms? Finally, the feeling of contentment and the warmth of each other's love, coursed through their beings, once again.
A few moments later, Dae-Hyun pushed back a little and held her arms. Longing and love bursting in their eyes. They missed each other very much. He wiped her tears and she, his.
Little by little, he leaned down and closed his eyes. Eun-Kyung's racing heart beat faster and she too, slowly closed her eyes.
Fireworks exploded overflowing their hearts with love and euphoria at the touch of the lips.
Her hands instinctively moved up around his neck as he held her waist with one hand, pulling her closer, while the other supported the back of her neck.
Kisses after kisses, they poured all their love into the kisses.
He reluctantly parted away and gently rested their foreheads together.
"I love you, Eun-Kyung. Very much."
"I love you too, Oppa. Very much too."
Smiles curved up and he kissed the point of her nose before embracing her tightly, again.
"Happy birthday, Eun-Kyung."
"You are the best birthday present, Oppa."
"I love you, Eun-Kyung," and kissed her forehead.
"Oppa, when did you come back? Your classes?"
"Two hours ago."
"Oppa? Do Aunt Ga Eul and Uncle Yi Jeong know?" She leaned back, eyebrows knitted together.
"No. Omma and Appa don't know. You're the first person that I wanted to see, well, not counting the house staff."
"Oppaaa..."
"But yes, Eun-Kyung. I want to give your birthday present by hand and not just through the mail but most importantly, I want to be near you on your birthday. Although near you, initially meant in the same city. I didn't expect near you like this, though I did hope for."
"Oppaaa…"
"But I love this near you, Eun-Kyung."
They gazed into each other's eyes. Love evident in them. Slowly, he leaned down again.
HONK! HONK! HOOOOONNNNKKKKK!
Both jumped up and stepped a little from each other.
The family had arrived. Woo Bin parked the car behind Dae-Hyun's.
"Hyung!" Won-Won came and hugged Dae-Hyun.
Jae Kyung and Woo Bin looked at their daughter and then at Dae-Hyun. Woo Bin did not like the close proximity of the two.
"Dae-Hyun, what a surprise." Jae Kyung approached them and Dae-Hyun quickly bowed to her.
"I'm here to give Eun-Kyung her birthday present, Auntie."
"Oh? By yourself?"
"Yes, Auntie. I need to."
"Your parents? They didn't say anything about you coming home."
"They don't know, Auntie."
"Oh?"
"What were you two doing earlier?" Woo Bin cast a glare on the young man.
"Annyeong, Uncle." Dae-Hyun politely bowed to the older man.
"Appa…" Eun-Kyung then slipped her fingers in between Dae-Hyun's and stepped in front of him, facing her Appa.
"Appa, please."
"Sweetheart?" Jae Kyung pulled Won-Won toward her.
"It's not you kissing a man in public, Eun-Kyung."
Eun-Kyung flinched at the use of her name instead of Sweetheart.
"But Omma, there's no public here." Won-Won looked at his Omma, confused but was answered with a nudge from Omma. "In the open, Won-Won. That's what Appa meant."
Woo Bin was still staring at Dae-Hyun.
"Darling, let's go discuss this inside." Jae Kyung held Woo Bin's shoulders and pushed him towards the house.
"Won-Won, you go upstairs and finish your homework."
"Awww, Omma. Hyung is here. I want to know more about New York." The boy pouted and crossed his arms.
"Aish, this boy. Go to your room. This is adults talk. Go on before Omma ground you."
"Appaaaa…"
But Woo Bin did not reply and went straight into the living room.
"Won-Won, we can go out tomorrow with Precious, Eunnie, Jee Ha and Joo-Won. Would you like that?"
"Yes, Hyung. Tomorrow, OK? Thanks, Hyung."
Dae-Hyun and Eun-Kyung were now face-to-face with Woo Bin and Jae Kyung. Eun-Kyung never let go of Dae-Hyun's hand.
"What's going on, Sweetheart?" Jae-Kyung held her husband's arm and could feel that he was shaking a little.
"This, Omma, Appa." Eun-Kyung brought up their linked hand.
"Why?" It was Woo Bin.
"Darling."
"Because I love Dae-Hyun Oppa, Appa."
"Eun-Kyung!"
"Appa, I always do. I can't hate Oppa. My mind wanted so badly, but my heart can't." Tears started to gather as she pleaded for her Appa's understanding.
"This easy?"
"Appa…"
"You know it's not easy for me, Appa. But I want to give this relationship a second chance. Oppa has shown me that Oppa is sincere and Oppa wants to make up for all Oppa's mistakes."
"But…"
"Appa, please. Appa said that Appa and Omma will accept whatever my decision is."
"Sweetheart…"
"Omma, doesn't Oppa deserve a second chance?"
"What is his guarantee that it will not happen again?" Woo Bin's eyes never left Dae-Hyun's.
"Uncle, Auntie, I know I've betrayed your trusts and you have all the rights to doubt me. Yes, nobody knows what lies in the future but I swear on Omma, Appa, my sisters and brothers' names that I love Eun-Kyung and will never betray her again, ever. If I do, Uncle and Auntie can do anything to me, punish me as you like. I will accept it. I promise."
"Oppa?"
"Dae-Hyun? That's not necessary." Jae Kyung looked at her husband who was wide-eyed at the young man's words.
"Appa, please. If Appa want me to be happy, please accept Oppa back, Appa. Please let us be together. For me, Appa."
Eun-Kyung then kneeled in front of Woo Bin, her hands on his knees as she looked at him, pleading and hopeful.
Dae-Hyun kneeled down too and bowed.
"Sweetheart, Appa don't want you to get hurt again."
Dae-Hyun's heart stung but he understood the older man's concern and worry.
"I won't, Appa. I believe in Dae-Hyun Oppa."
Woo Bin pulled his daughter up and hugged her.
"One last chance, Sweetheart. One last chance."
Eun-Kyung cried louder, in relief and kissed her Appa's cheeks. She then did the same to Omma.
"Dae-Hyun, I'm doing this for Eun-Kyung. But. The moment you hurt her and make her cry, I will make sure that you will never see her again. Ever."
"I understand, Uncle. Thank you."
Dae-Hyun wiped his tears and bowed to Woo Bin but was surprised when the older man pulled him up and hugged him tightly.
"Make my daughter happy."
"I will, Uncle."
"Don't screw up, Dae-Hyun."
"I won't Uncle. I promise."
Dae-Hyun stayed for tea and not long after, things went back like before although Woo Bin was still being cautious with the young man. He had meant it when he warned Dae-Hyun about forbidding the latter from seeing his daughter if he screwed up. He was, after all, a man of his words.
"Uncle, Auntie, Won-Won, I'm sorry I didn't bring you anything from New York."
"That's alright, Dae-Hyun," Jae Kyung offered an understanding smile.
"Awww, Hyung. Can I get a keychain of that famous park in New York next time? What is it called?" Won-Won had always liked plants, parks and trees, as well as insects and animals, much to Woo Bin and Jae Kyung's puzzlement. They wondered where he got the interest from.
"Won-Won." Eun-Kyung playfully slapped his hand.
"Ouch, Noona."
Dae-Hyun gave a small laugh. "That's alright, Eun-Kyung. That park? It's Central Park. Hyung will take you there when you come to New York. Oh, there're also other parks."
"Yes. Thank you, Hyung. Appa, Omma, can we go there with Hyung? Hyung, when are you going back?"
"Won-Won. Are you forgetting school?" Jae Kyung raised an eyebrow, to which the boy harrumphed and pouted in frustration.
"Oh, Sweetheart. Earlier Dae-Hyun mentioned about giving you your birthday present himself?"
"Oh. Yes, Omma. It's in my room."
"Can we see it, Noona?"
"Won-Won, it's Noona's birthday present." Woo Bin who was the quietest at the table disagreed.
"That's OK, Appa. I'll go get it. Oppa, are you alright if I show it here?"
"Sure, Eun-Kyung."
"Be right back," and off she went.
Less than five minutes later, she was back with the rest.
"Wow!"
"Waaaahhh! So beautiful, Hyung."
"Very beautiful, Dae-Hyun."
"Oppa…"
It was a slim vase with beautiful sparkling gems of multi colors arranged artfully to spell "Song Eun-Kyung".
"Do you like it?"
"Very much, Oppa. Did…"
"Yes, Eun-Kyung. I made it myself."
"I… I don't like it very much, Oppa. I LOVE it very much. Thank you, Oppa."
"You've become a great potter like your Appa, Dae-Hyun. I'm very proud of you."
Woo Bin was sincere with his comment. He was amazed at the finesse and intricacy of the vase. He could also see Yi Jeong's influence in it. Another great potter to bring the So Museum and arts higher into the World's Top Museums list.
"Thank you, Uncle." Dae-Hyun beamed brightly.
"Hyung, please make one for me too."
"OK, Won-Won."
"No. Don't Oppa."
"Omma, Appa. Look at Noona."
But the adults just laughed at his whines.
"Uncle, Auntie, Eun-Kyung, Won-Won, I've been here for so long. Uncle and Auntie must be tired and want to rest. I'd better get home and surprise them all."
"Oppa, whose car is it outside?"
"Oh, rent it at the airport."
"Why don't we send it back and then I'll send Oppa home?"
"That's a great idea, Eun-Kyung," Jae-Kyung smiled affectionately at her daughter.
"I don't want to trouble you, Eun-Kyung."
"No, Oppa. It's no trouble at all."
He thought for a while and agreed.
"Thank you, Uncle, Auntie. I'll see you tomorrow, Won-Won. Make sure you think of the places to go, arasso?"
"Deh, Hyung."
"Darling," Jae Kyung snaked her arms around Woo Bin's waist and kissed his bare shoulder. They were in their bedroom.
"Hmm?"
"I'm so proud of you."
"Proud?" He covered her hands with his.
"Yes, Darling. For giving Dae-Hyun another chance."
"Hmm. But I'm serious about what I said, Darling."
Jae Kyung then turned her husband around and again, locked him in her arms.
"I know but I believe Dae-Hyun will not hurt our Sweetheart again. I can see it in his eyes and the way he looked at Sweetheart. He really loves her, Darling. What had happened was a one-time slip that I'm sure he had learned the lesson well."
"I just want Sweetheart to be happy, Darling."
"I know. You're the most caring Appa and our children are the most fortunate for that."
She then kissed him deeply and passionately, which he returned as equal.
"I love you, Darling."
"I love you too."
The drive from the airport to the So Mansion was filled with smiles, glances, kisses on the hands and laughs. Dae-Hyun and Eun-Kyung talked like they used to. He shared about the interesting places in New York and his classes, while she told him about her volunteer projects and all. Dae-Hyun then remembered about the man that was with her. Shim Il Dong.
Yes, Shim Il Dong had confessed that he liked her a month ago, but she politely declined. Her heart was already taken, as she told the man.
Dae-Hyun swore, again, that he will cherish and appreciate Eun-Kyung for the rest of his life.
Ding dong! Ding dong! Ding dong!
Ga Eul was in the hallway after coming out of the grand hall. Dae-Hwan's classmates were coming over tomorrow for a big project. They were going to use the hall to record a video. Ga Eul had just finished checking the hall to make sure everything was ready for tomorrow.
She was the nearest to the main door. "I'll get it!"
"Eun-Kyung?"
"Annyeong, Aunt Ga Eul." The young woman bowed to her and immediately hugged her that she had to balance her stand.
"Annyeong, Sweetheart. Hey, is everything OK?"
It had been nearly two and a half months since the young lady came to the house.
"Everything is OK, Aunt Ga Eul. I miss you and everybody."
"I miss you too. I'm really sorry for what happened. Please, forgive us, forgive Dae-Hyun."
"Aunt Ga Eul, about Oppa..."
"Oh?" Ga Eul's heart began to drum faster. Has Eun-Kyung come to a decision?
"Annyeong, Omma." Dae-Hyun peeked his head from the outside.
"AAAARRRRKKK!" Ga Eul almost fell backward.
"Wha…what are you doing here? Dae-Hyun? Eun-Kyung?"
Dae-Hyun quickly hugged Omma and kissed her cheeks.
"OMMA?" "JAGIYA?"
All the other So came running from the family room next to the door but halted in their tracks at the sight of the two unexpected visitors. One was hugging Ga Eul, while another had a wide sunny smile on her face.
"OPPA?" "Dae-Hyun? Eun-Kyung?" "Hyung?" "Unnie?" "Noona…"
"What? What…"
"Surprise."
Dae-Hyun went to the family members and hugged each one of them as Eun-Kyung linked arms with Ga Eul.
"Unnie?" Jae Hwa looked at Eun-Kyung, so many questions forming in her head but one thing for sure, she had missed Eun-Kyung tremendously.
"What? When? How? Dae-Hyun?" Yi Jeong could not think of anything, what more to see Eun-Kyung in the house.
"In the family room, everyone." Dae-Hyun took Jae Eun and Jae Ji's hands and led them to the room. The others then followed.
"It's Eun-Kyung's birthday, today."
"We know, Oppa. We sent Unnie a large birthday cake this morning but Unnie was not in. Happy birthday, Unnie. We love you, Unnie."
Jae Hwa embraced her Eun-Kyung Unnie tightly and the two little girls came over and joined in the hug.
"Thank you, Darling, Eunnie, Precious. I love all of you too. The cake was delicious. Unnie's favorite. Thank you."
"And?" Yi Jeong could not wait to hear more.
"I came to give Eun-Kyung her birthday present. I want to be near Eun-Kyung on her special day and also to show that I'll do anything for her." He looked at Eun-Kyung affectionately.
"When did you arrive?" It was Ga Eul.
"This afternoon."
"We were at Aunt Jan Di's place this afternoon," Dae-Jung added and Dae-Hwan nodded in agreement.
"Eun-Kyung?"
Eun-Kyung broke away from the girls and stood next to Dae-Hyun. She then laced their fingers, looked at him, mouthed "I love you, Oppa" and leaned against his side.
"I want to try again, this relationship, to give it a chance. I love Oppa."
In an instant, Ga Eul crushed the two of them in a hug and cried. The men sighed in relief as the girls shrieked in delight.
"Your Appa? Omma?" Yi Jeong suddenly remembered.
"Appa and Omma approved."
Another round of relief and joyous cries reverberated in the room.
Dae-Hyun and Eun-Kyung, together again. It was the most awaited news and had at last been among the best news in months.
"Unnie, are Unnie staying for the night?"
Little Jae Ji played with Eun-Kyung's hands. They were all in the family room again, after the delicious celebration dinner cooked by Ga Eul with the help of her girls and Eun-Kyung.
"No, Precious. Sorry. Unnie have to go home. But Oppa is taking Won-Won out tomorrow. Oppa said he's taking Precious, Eunnie, Jee Ha and Joo-Won too." She then glanced at Dae-Hyun who was talking to his two brothers and Appa.
"Really? Are Unnie coming too? Darling Unnie? Dae-Jung Oppa and Hwannie Oppa? Oppa, where are we going?"
"Won-Won will decide on that. Precious, why don't you call Jee Ha and Joo-Won? Ask them to get ready by 9."
"OK, Oppa. Yaaayyy!"
The little girl then went to Omma who was braiding Eunnie Unnie's hair.
"Omma, may Precious use Omma's phone?"
"Sure, Precious."
The girl then happily scrolled for the number.
"Eun-Kyung, are you sure you don't want to stay over? It's already late."
"Yes, Aunt Ga Eul. I need to finish my assignment. It's due on Monday."
"Hey, I'll send you home. You can leave the car here for tonight and bring it back tomorrow after the outing." Dae-Hyun had come to sit next to Eun-Kyung.
"Yes, Unnie. That's a great idea, Oppa."
Jae Hwa then quickly squeezed herself in between Eun-Kyung and Dae-Hyun. The two laughed seeing how she was still jealous of Dae-Hyun when it came to Eun-Kyung.
"I'd love that, Oppa."
"Darling, are you coming with us? What about you boys?"
"Sorry, Hyung. I have to go to school tomorrow. The Math Whiz Competition is just around the corner. We need to study."
"I can't too, Hyung. My classmates are coming. We're making a video for a national competition."
"And I have a date with Jung-Hee Oppa." Jae Hwa's cheeks turned crimson.
"What?" Yi Jeong felt like he just had a heart attack, to which, Ga Eul just laughed at him.
"Young lady, I don't remember you asking permission."
"Appaaaa…I already did. Yesterday and Appa said OK."
"I did? Yesterday? Why didn't I remember? Jagiya?"
Ga Eul laughed again.
"Yes, Honey. You said OK but with conditions. No movies, no theme parks and no dark places."
"Which rules out almost all of the fun places." Jae Hwa rolled her eyes and everybody except Yi Jeong and the two youngest girls laughed out loud.
"By the way, Appa, we're going to the safest place on earth; Appa's Museum. Jung-Hee Oppa is suddenly interested in history and pottery."
"Oh?" It never crossed Yi Jeong's mind that Jung-Hee was the type.
"Oppa think Jung-Hee is trying to gain points with Appa," and again, laughter erupted at Dae-Hyun's remark while Jae Hwa pouted and scowled at her Oppa.
After the laughter had died down, Eun-Kyung patted on Dae-Hyun's hand.
"I think it's time to go. Thank you, Aunt Ga Eul, Uncle Yi Jeong."
She stood up and hugged everyone but Dae-Hyun. "Good night. I'll see you girls tomorrow, OK?"
"Good night, Unnie." "Good night, Eun-Kyung." "Good night, Noona."
"Jagiya, I'm so glad that they are together again."
"Yes, Honey. I'm happy too."
"I hope Dae-Hyun appreciates this opportunity and not ruin it."
"I hope too. Eun-Kyung is a wonderful, kind girl. Dae-Hyun is fortunate to have her love."
"I'm also glad that Woo Bin and Jae Kyung are giving him another chance."
"Yes, Honey. Dae-Hyun will always remember this in his life. He should be."
"Hmmm."
Yi Jeong snuggled into Ga Eul's hair and had his hands around her waist.
"Jagiya, are you still in the Red Flag Zone?"
"What?"
His left hand wandered to her thighs, playing with the hem of her nightie. She immediately stopped it before it went higher.
"Yi Jeong Sunbae… you are insatiable."
"It's your fault Ga Eul-yang. You are too beautiful and sexy."
"And to answer your question, yes, Yi Jeong Sunbae. The red flag is up."
"Aish, Ga Eul-yang. You're purposely torturing me."
He turned around, facing the other side, sulking.
Ga Eul softly laughed at her husband's childish act. She then turned to face his back and pulled him to face her but he shrugged his shoulders. Ga Eul laughed louder.
She pulled him again, a little harder this time. He was now on his back and Ga Eul immediately hovered over and trapped him with her arms and legs.
"You're forgetting something, Yi Jeong Sunbae."
Yi Jeong's eyebrows curved up in less than a second. A naughty smile formed on his handsome face.
"I still have another set of skills."
"Why don't you show me, Ga Eul-yang? Now."
Ga Eul laughed at her husband's authoritative order and leaned down to capture his awaiting lips.
They had arrived at the Song Mansion but were still in his car.
"Eun-Kyung, thank you." He gently caressed the contour of her beautiful face but the lack of lights in the car but aided by the light from the lamp posts outside somehow made her looked angelic. He then tucked some loose hair behind her right ear.
"Oppa…" She held his hand and closed her eyes, savoring his warm and gentle touch. When she opened her eyes, his face was already inches from hers, his gaze fixed on her lips. Her heart beat faster.
A second later, his soft warm lips gently claimed hers and she reveled in the sensation. Her hands automatically went around his neck.
"I love you, Eun-Kyung. I will never hurt you again. I will make you the happiest girl. I will not make your decision to give us another chance a waste. I give you my words, Eun-Kyung. If ever you feel the slightest sadness or unhappiness when you're with me, for whatever reason, please tell me. I will try my hardest and all to make you happy again. But please, don't give up on me."
"I believe in you. I love you, Oppa."
They searched each other's eyes for further assurance and all they could see were honesty, sincerity and love.
Just then, her hand phone dinged, startling both of them and breaking the moment. It was a text message.
"It's Appa."
Dae-Hyun gave her a peck on the lips. "Come on. I'll walk you to the door."
He opened the car door for her and interlaced their fingers.
In front of the door, they were face-to-face again.
"Good night, Eun-Kyung."
"Good night, Oppa."
He leaned down for a kiss and Eun-Kyung slowly closed her eyes.
"Sweetheart. I've been… Oh. Sorry." Jae Kyung quickly closed the door.
The couple laughed at yet another 'interruption'.
He, again, dipped his head and kissed her, long and deep. Her knees weakened, as usual, and she held his waist firmly.
Breathless, "I'll see you tomorrow, Eun-Kyung."
"Tomorrow… I'll be here, Oppa," also breathless.
With great reluctance, they parted away.
She watched him enter the car, and waved goodbye.
He waved at her and blew a kiss.
With wide contented smile, she went inside and he drove away.
The future offered a promising journey to a happy ending.
-END OF DAE-HYUN AND EUN-KYUNG MINI STORY-