Chapter 17: The Gu-So Couples' Stories – Part IV
A.N.: Sorry for the very long wait. This is the end of So Jae Eun and Gu Jung-Hwa's mini story. Thank you for your reads, reviews, favorites, follows and support.
A reply to lumilana: Woo Bin x Jae Kyung's, as well as Ji Hoo x Ha Eun's sub-stories are to be included in this big WSYD? story. I do have a number of story ideas for them as well as for the others. It's just a matter of finding the time to write and then there are the frustrating writer's blocks. Nevertheless, thanks for your review and suggestion, and your patience.
Take care, everyone!
Disclaimer: I don't own these BOF characters, other than the new ones.
Published: January 14, 2019
The main characters and F4 children and grandchildren:
So Yi Jeong and Chu Ga Eul's children: So Dae-Hyun, So Jae Hwa, So Dae-Jung, So Dae-Hwan, So Jae Eun, So Jae Ji and So Dae-Seong. Deceased/Miscarried: So Dae-Ho (So Jae Ji's twin)
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, Dae-Seong - Baby
Song Woo Bin and Ha Jae Kyung's children: Song Eun-Kyung and Song Won-Bin (Won-won).
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
So Dae-Hyun and Song Eun-Kyung's children: So Kang-Dae and So Kyung-Dae (twin) and So Eun Byul.
So Jae Hwa and Gu Jung-Hee's daughter: Gu Chin-Sun
Eight months later
"What? You're not coming back for the summer?"
Yi Jeong felt a headache coming. His summer holiday plan was ruined with those two initial words: "Sorry, Appa." He wanted to take the whole family to Whitsunday Islands, Australia - one of the most beautiful island archipelagos in the world. Jae Eun, however, decided not to come home because she wanted to tour some of the European cities with Jung-Hwa. He wondered whose idea it was.
"But Eunnie, we've discussed this before you left. You're to come home every summer holiday and doesn't Jung-Hwa have work? As Appa remembered, he promised his parents that he'll come home too."
Truth was, he was scared to let Jae Eun and Jung-Hwa traveling through foreign countries just the two of them. Allowing Jae Eun to study abroad was already a huge feat for him, what more to let them travel together?
"Appa…" Through the video call, Jae Eun's lips pursed thin.
"I can't do this. Jagiya, hold me, please. I'm afraid I'm going to fall down." His hand reached for his wife's arm.
Ga Eul shook her head. "You are securely seated on a chair. You can't fall down, Honey." Her husband could sometimes be overly dramatic. She then kissed the side of his face.
"Omma… Eunnie am sorry to break my promise but the summer here is too beautiful to miss and my friends here said Europe is best explored during summer. Eunnie can come home next summer?"
How could Ga Eul turn down that cute pretty adorable pouty face of her daughter?
"Eunnie, you've been to Amsterdam, Sweden, Italy and should Appa list all the countries that we've been to?"
"But Appa, Eunnie was small at that time… Now, Eunnie can appreciate them more."
Yi Jeong pulled Ga Eul's hands to massage his temple.
"But your Appa has planned our vacation for months, Eunnie."
"But Omma…" her lips trembled. She wished Jung-Hwa was with here at that moment but he was at work.
"How's your studying coming, Eunnie? Your exam is next month, right?"
"It's alright." It was more than alright. She had gotten all As for her assignments and monthly tests. "Yes, Omma. Early of the month." The excitement in her voice had run away.
"Make sure you take your meals and rest well. Omma will contact Jung-Hwa to assist you."
"Omma, Omma don't have to. Oppa makes sure Eunnie don't miss my meals and eat on time. He's been very good to Eunnie."
"Of course, Eunnie." Ga Eul smiled affectionately at her daughter but she was obviously still somber.
"Omma, please let Eunnie go to Europe with Oppa." She was not giving up.
"No, Eunnie," replied Yi Jeong.
"Appa, please."
"Why don't Appa and Omma discuss this with the rest and we'll give our decision next week?" suggested Ga Eul.
"Yes!" "No!" The daughter and husband answered simultaneously.
"Appa!" "Eunnie!"
"You two are like children. My words are final. We'll talk to you next week, Eunnie. Take care over there and study, OK? Send our love to Jung-Hwa."
"Jagiya, I'm not finished here," her husband protested but she just waved at the screen. "Say bye to Eunnie, Honey."
"I will, Omma. Bye, Omma. Bye, Appa. Eunnie love Appa and Omma. Send my love to the rest too."
"Bye, Eunnie. We love you too."
The call had ended leaving the husband and wife with different reactions: one brooding and another happy.
"Jagiya, I don't want to discuss it. I'm not letting Eunnie go."
Ga Eul enveloped Yi Jeong in her arms and pecked his lips. "You, Mr. So Yi Jeong, are slow."
"Excuse me? Slow? What do you mean?"
"Don't you know your daughter at all?"
"Ey?"
"See? Slow," and she giggled.
"Jagiya! I am not slow."
"With Eunnie, we need to negotiate. I have an idea but it has to wait until tomorrow when everybody is here."
Yi Jeong thought for a while. Negotiate? But he had made all the plans for this coming summer holiday.
"Jagiya, I don't have the patience to wait until tomorrow. Tell me now," he demanded while frowning at her.
"Nope. Not telling you," and stuck out her tongue at him, surprising him.
"Why you, Mrs. So."
Ga Eul gave him a chaste kiss before extracting herself from him but he held on her hands.
"Aa Aaaa. No. You're not getting away after that stunt, Ga Eul-yang."
"Yi Jeong Sunbae!" She yelped when he suddenly scooped her up and carried her to their bed.
"Can you believe your son?"
"My son? Which one? Wait. If he's my son, then he's your son too."
Jan Di felt like smacking her husband.
"Jung-Hwa. He's not coming home for the summer."
"So? What's wrong with that?"
"Jun Pyo. Of course it's wrong. He promised before he left."
"Things happened and something must have come up."
"Don't you miss him?"
Jun Pyo put down the pen on his desk.
"Jan Di, yes. I do but he's practically an adult now. I'm not going to wail and throw tantrum if he can't come home. He must have a good reason."
Jan Di's face reddened and she glowered at her husband. "Are you saying I'm throwing a tantrum?"
"What? Of course not. I'm just saying that it's alright if he can't make it. Maybe he's busy."
"Busy? Yeah, sure. Apparently, he's going on a Europe tour with Eunnie."
"Oh…"
"Oh? Just Oh?"
"Well, I think it's good for them. Explore new places. Europe is breath-taking during summer. You've been there. You loved it."
"Gu Jun Pyo! Can't you see I'm disappointed here?"
Jun Pyo puffed and pushed out his chair and approached Jan Di. He then pulled her waist toward him and kissed her forehead.
"Yah! What are you doing?"
A smile formed as he looked at his wife whose eyes were already brimming with tears.
"Why are these tears here?"
"Jun Pyo…"
His lips brushed hers as he cupped her face while his thumbs wiped away the tears.
"I know you miss Jung-Hwa very much even if he's already old enough to be a husband and a father. But if that's what he has decided, that's alright. It's not like he's not coming home at all, only postponing to a later date."
"But he promised… He never breaks his promises."
"Hmmm. I know but just let it go this time. Let him spend this summer with his fiancée."
"But he can take Eunnie there on their honeymoon. Wait. Nooooo! Jun Pyo, do you think they have secretly married?"
Jun Pyo's eyebrows raised up. "Where does this come from?"
"They wouldn't dare marry without us, right?"
"Whoa, Jan Di. Stop there. Are you trying to give me a heart attack? Of course, they wouldn't. Ga Eul and Yi Jeong, especially Yi Jeong will kill Jung-Hwa if that happens."
"I know. But Jun Pyo, I want Jung-Hwa home."
"Aish… He'll come home."
"I wonder if Ga Eul and Yi Jeong Sunbae know about this. I'll call Ga Eul."
"Yes, you do that."
"So Eunnie, how did it go with Uncle Yi Jeong and Aunt Ga Eul?"
They were at her college's café. Usually, they'd go out on Saturdays but since her final exam was near, she requested that they just met up there.
Jae Eun shrugged. "Appa didn't agree but Omma was alright, I guess. They'll discuss this more and will inform their decision next week. I really hope that Appa will allow us to go."
Jung-Hwa took her small hands in his and gently caressed the back of them with his thumbs.
"I hope too. Omma didn't take the news well either."
Jae Eun's lip curved down. "Why?"
"Because we promised them to come home for summer. They just miss us very much."
"I just wanted to visit the countries before the university academic year starts." Even though she had not completed her A-Level programme, she had high hopes that she would be admitted to the University of her choice based on her current progress and tests results.
"I know. Don't worry. I'm sure they'll eventually agree."
"I hope so too, Oppa."
Her heart melted from his loving gaze. He had been a wonderful help and support since they stepped onto the British soil. She was homesick for the first month but he made sure to call her every night to lessen the feeling. He had expected her to be so since this was the first time that she was away from the family.
Every weekend, he would take her out and explore London and nearby areas. She loved the historic castles and sites, as well as the art galleries there. If they were not sightseeing, they would just stay at his apartment. They'd either have movie marathons or did their work or assignments. They also learned to cook since they missed Korean food very much.
People say that when a man and a woman are alone, the third party is the devil. Quite a large number of times, the engaged couple ended up making out on the sofa but either one, especially Jung-Hwa, managed to stop them before things got too heated up or taken to the next stage. He remembered his promise to Uncle Yi Jeong and Aunt Ga Eul. It was definitely a difficult feat to resist the lovely Jae Eun. She, too, was having difficulties in controlling her emotions and wants but she was also afraid to go to the next level of their relationship. They had had a discussion on this matter, much to Jae Eun's embarrassment but it had to be done. In the end, they would TRY to honor the promise made to the elders.
"I love you, Eunnie."
His n-th declaration of love snapped her out of her thought. Her heart swelled a thousand times and she felt so fortunate to receive his love. There was no better man than him.
"I love you too, Oppa."
He wanted to kiss her senseless but they were in the café and there were a few people around. He couldn't wait to make her his wife.
She gave him the brightest smile. "Oppa, I can't wait for the trip."
"Me too, Eunnie."
They prepared an itinerary two weeks ago and the trip would be for 6 weeks and cover about 22 cities.
"Oh, Hwannie Oppa is going to be super crazy jealous of us."
Jung-Hwa chuckled and bobbed his head. "Yes, he is." Dae-Hwan's interests were in photography and traveling. His scrapbooks collection, as well as photographs, were very impressive and he had participated in auctions and exhibitions which Yi Jeong had organized to present and showcase the young man's work.
"Eunnie, let's go for a walk." He stood up and held out his hand. Jae Eun gladly placed a hand in his and they exited the café, going toward the small garden in the college area. It was a lovely April day.
They continued to exchange stories: Jung-Hwa with his current work project and Jae Eun regarding her art assignment, as well as about her friends. When they got tired from walking, they settled on one of the benches.
Her head against his shoulder, he had one arm around her shoulder and kissed the top of her head. They sat quietly, divulging on the warmth of each other's body while watching the activities in the park. This was one of their favorite places and things to do.
"Eunnie," he then kissed the side of her head.
"Yes, Oppa," she had wrapped her arms around his waist, snuggling closer.
"You know first-year students are given accommodation in the University, right?"
"Yes, Oppa."
"What do you say to moving in with me? For the whole duration of your study?"
Immediately she looked up. "Oppa?"
"I want to be near you all the time." His eyes glint with hopefulness. "And I don't think I can stand the idea of you bumping into semi-naked or drunken male college mates."
"Oppa, are you afraid that I'll fall for another guy?" She could always easily read him.
Shades of red colored his face. "I… I'm just worried."
She raised an eyebrow. She knew there were more.
"And…yes. I'm afraid."
"Oh, Oppa. Don't you trust me?" He leaned more into her hand that was now cupping his cheek.
"I do trust you but I still feel afraid."
"Why? There's no reason at all, Oppa. I love you. Very much."
"I'm much older and they are much younger. I'm afraid that you'll find me too old for you."
"Oppa, stop it right there. What's with this sudden fear? I don't understand."
"I'm sorry. It just came to me."
"Don't you ever think that way again, Oppa. Don't you dare to ever question my love for you. You are it, the one for me. If we're talking about fear, it's me who should be afraid. You're surrounded by smart women at work. I'm sure there are beautiful women there too."
"No. No, Unnie. I'd never look at other women. Only you."
"Then please, Oppa. Don't say such things again. We're engaged and you shouldn't be thinking like that." It hurt her that he suddenly felt insecure.
"I'm sorry. I won't anymore," and captured her lips.
Breaking the kiss to breathe, he rubbed his nose against hers.
"But I still would love for you to stay with me."
"Oppa…"
"What?"
Her cry startled him. He was in the bathroom while she was having a Facetime with her parents. He rushed out to her. "Eunnie, what is it?"
She pointed to the screen.
"Yes, we're coming with you to Europe."
Jung-Hwa's jaw dropped.
"The whole family?"
"Yes, everybody except for Dae-Hyun, Darling and their families. Ah, your Aunt Jan Di, Uncle Jun Pyo, and Jee Ha are coming with us too."
"Omma, Appa… but we've already made plans. It's a one-and-a-half month trip and we're going backpacking."
"What?" It was Yi Jeong's turn to be surprised.
"Oh…" was all that Ga Eul could say.
Apparently, the young couple missed informing their parents about the duration and the mean of the trip.
"Uncle Yi Jeong, Aunt Ga Eul, say something." The elders seemed to be lost of words.
"Do your Appa and Omma agree to this, Jung-Hwa?" enquired Yi Jeong.
"I don't know. I didn't tell them this part."
"Won't it be dangerous?" asked Ga Eul.
"No, Omma. Well, of course, there are the risks but we've done some research and as long as we stick together and take the necessary precautions, we'll be fine."
"Precious will be devastated if we don't go, Jagiya. We promised her."
"Appa, why did Appa promise Precious already?"
"Because she misses you badly." Jae Ji had been complaining that she got to talk to her sister less and less.
Jae Eun felt guilty.
"Uncle Yi Jeong, Aunt Ga Eul. Maybe we can do it this way."
The three So looked at the Gu.
"Eunnie and I will continue with our plan. We'll give you our itinerary and you decide where in Europe that you want to visit. So we'll meet all of you there?"
"That's brilliant, Oppa," and kissed him on the cheek, which made Yi Jeong frowned, earning him a giggle from Ga Eul.
"Yes, Omma, Appa. What do you think?"
"We'll have to discuss with your parents, Jung-Hwa," Ga Eul replied.
"So, Omma and Appa agree to let us go on this trip?"
Yi Jeong groaned in defeat and answered: "Yes, Eunnie."
Jae Eun screamed in excitement and hugged Jung-Hwa. The man hugged her back making Yi Jeong groaned more. Ga Eul had to hold her laugh at her husband's discomfort at their daughter and her fiance's reaction.
"Thank you, Appa, Omma. We love you."
"We love you too, Eunnie, Jung-Hwa. We'll get back to you soon with your parent's decision, OK?"
"OK, Omma. Thanks, Omma. Send our love to all."
"I will. Now you two children behave and take care, OK? Eunnie, don't get too excited. Your exams are just around the corner."
"Yes, Omma."
"Thank you, Aunt Ga Eul, Uncle Yi Jeong."
"Bye, Appa, Omma. Appa, love you!"
"I love you too, Eunnie. We'll talk to you soon."
And they waved goodbye and ended the call.
"Yes! Yes! Yes!" Jae Eun jumped onto Jung-Hwa, embracing him tightly. She then showered his face with kisses before ending on his lips.
"Eunnie…" he moaned against her sweet lips and parted his mouth when she bit his bottom lip. The kiss turned feverish and they could not get enough of each other's lips. Without realizing, they had moved to the large couch with her straddling him, their hands exploring each other.
"Eunnie…" He had to stop, and she whimpered.
"Oppa… I want you, Oppa..."
"I want you too, Eunnie. You can't imagine how much."
They were now panting hard, foreheads against each other. His hands cupping her cheeks while hers, around his neck. Their hearts were thumping wild.
"My friends said I'm old fashioned for still being a …"
"Do you want me because of what your friends said? To prove that you're not old fashioned?"
It felt like a bucket of cold ice was splashed onto her.
"No. No. Oppa."
He leaned back at looked into her beautiful eyes.
"Though it kills me, I will wait if you're not ready, Eunnie. You don't need to prove anything to them or to me."
"I… I'm ready, Oppa."
He shook his head and smiled.
"No, you're not. I don't want you to regret it, Eunnie."
"I… I won't regret it, Oppa. I want you." She leaned forward and planted a kiss on his lips.
"I know but you're not ready yet. I know and you know it too, my love."
"Oppa…" She then leaned against him, placing the right side of her face on his chest and her arms moved to encircle his waist. He was right and she thanked him for understanding.
His embrace tightened.
"I love you, Eunnie."
It was never a tire to say those words and it never tired her to hear him said them.
Jae Eun and Jung-Hwa's itinerary started with the City of Light, Paris before heading to Antwerp, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Munich, Prague, Bern, Venice, San Marino, Pisa, Milan, Vienna, Budapest, Ljubljana, Bled Jezero, Verona, Bologna, Nice, Marseille, Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon before heading back to Paris as the last stop before London. Their trip would include fascinating history and museums, art galleries, the gorgeous beaches, scenic mountain hikes, fairytale villages, ultra-chic cities, fabulous food and more. It was an ambitious and energy-challenging trip.
After lots of arguments, discussion and taking into consideration each So and Gu family members' opinions, especially Jae Ji's health condition, they agreed to follow Jung-Hwa's suggestion. They would join the couple halfway through the two's tour with the condition that during that second leg of the tour, the couple would stay with them at the hotels of the parents' choosing rather than the hostels that the couple initially planned. In addition, Jae Eun and Jung-Hwa must come home for Christmas and New Year.
It was a win-win situation.
"Eunnie Unnie, I missed you!"
Jae Ji enclosed her sister in a bone-breaking hug. The couple had just arrived at the hotel where the So and Gu families were staying. The Sos and Gus arrived in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia that morning.
"Unnie missed you too, Precious."
Meanwhile, Jung-Hwa greeted everyone else. It was good to finally meet the family.
"Eunnie, Jung-Hwa, you both look thinner," commented an alarmed Jan Di.
Jung-Hwa glanced at Jae Eun and nodded. "It's the traveling and with these backpacks," he pointed to their large backpacks that were half the height of Jae Ji, "but we're fine, Omma. A little tired, but fine."
Yi Jeong was now next to Jae Eun and had an arm around her shoulder. "Why don't we let these two rest first before we head down for lunch and then go sight-seeing?"
"Good idea, Appa." And they went to their respective rooms. The boys; Dae-Jung, Dae-Hwan, and Jung-Hwa shared a room while the girls; Jae Eun, Jae Ji, and Jee Ha had their own.
Well, say goodbye to resting. In the girls' room, it was a noisy affair. Jae Ji and Jee Ha had not stopped talking and asking lots of questions about Jae Eun's first leg of the trip. It was the same in the boys' room.
An hour later, everybody gathered downstairs, ready to go out for lunch at a well-recommended restaurant that served local cuisine. After the delicious fulfilling lunch, the group went on the tourist boat cruise along the river Ljublanica. The most excited people were Yi Jeong, Dae-Hwan and Jae Eun. Ljubljana city is a stunning historical city with unique architecture, picturesque bridges, facades and embankments, museums and galleries, as well as the prominent Ljubljana Castle.
After the river cruise, they further explored the city center, stopping by at the little café for a short break of coffee, tea, and snacks. Their large group gathered some double looks and amusement from the locals and other tourists. Not every day that they'd get to see such beautiful and handsome large group of people from the East. A few brave ones had stopped them for some pictures, though Jun Pyo was not thrilled initially.
Just before 7 in the evening, they returned to their hotel for the youngest So was tired. But he was praised for behaving and did not give much of a problem during the sight-seeing. They then agreed to gather again for dinner in an hour. The So and Gu children were going to continue with the city exploration after dinner.
The rest of the trip was not free of problems, something that was inevitable with a large group. There were arguments and disagreement among them, especially with regards to places to visit and eat. However, they managed to come to agreements in the end. It was always either Ga Eul or Jan Di who was the peacemaker. All in all, it was a memorable tour. The younger children; Jae Ji and Jee Ha commented more than a few times that they wanted to migrate to the Europe cities that they visited since they loved the places a lot. Dae-Jung also joked that he wanted to bring his bride to Europe for their honeymoon, which earned him lots of teasing from the rest.
Their last place before going to London was Paris where they stayed at Shinhwa Hotel. The Hotel was opened only two years ago and last year was named The Best New Luxury Hotel. Jun Pyo also had a few meetings scheduled while they were there.
It was the last night in Paris. The group was at Eiffel Tower for dinner. The night was clear and beautifully lit by the full moon with the stars twinkling like diamonds. The elders stayed at the restaurant while Jung-Hwa, Jae Eun, Jae Ji, and Jee Ha went to the observatory level at the second floor top. Meanwhile, Dae-Jung and Dae-Hyun proceeded to the Top floor.
"I've missed you."
Jung-Hwa took Jae Eun's hand in his and kiss the back of it. Since the family arrived, they had not many chances to be alone. Jae Eun was always accompanied by the two younger girls or her mother and youngest brother, as well as by her father. However, he understood that they missed Jae Eun and wanted to spend as much time as possible with her. Fortunately, he had the two boys with him.
"I've missed you too, Oppa."
"I can't believe our trip is coming to its end. It's just like only yesterday we left London."
"Me too, Oppa."
His heart swelled from her lovely smile.
"Which city is your favorite?"
"I can't say, Oppa. I love all of them. What's your favorite?"
His head tilted back from his laugh. "I can't decide which one too." She playfully swatted his arm.
"But if I have to pick, I love Bern the most, then Lake Bled."
"I can see why. The view is gorgeously amazing and stunning. Breath-taking."
He couldn't agree more.
"Do you think you're up to another trip like this?"
"I'd love to, Oppa but we promised our family to go home next summer."
"Well, it won't have to be during summer. Maybe during your term holidays?"
It sounded so tempting. However, "Oppa, will you be able to get a long leave?"
"I'll have to check but I may have to save on my leaves for these trips."
Her face heated up from his gaze.
"Thank you, Oppa for this trip."
"No, thank you for this trip. I love our families with all my heart but I wish that for our next trip, it'll be just the two of us," then slowly leaned forward.
"Me too." Her eyelids fluttered before they closed as his lips touched hers. Her hands slowly moved to rest on his chest while his, on her waist closing the gap between them.
"Unnie!" "Oppa!"
Both sighed and shook their heads when they pulled apart.
"Yes, Precious, Jee Ha?" Jung-Hwa turned to the two girls who were wagging their index fingers to them.
"We're going to tell Omma and Appa that you two kissed," said Jee Ha.
"What's wrong with kissing? We're engaged. Omma and Appa won't mind," Jung-Hwa stated.
"But Appa will." It was Jae Ji.
"Precious," pleaded Jae Eun. Appa was still having hard times accepting their display of affection in public.
The two girls then laughed, surprising the couple.
"Gotcha!" cried Jae Ji.
And Jee Ha added, "Of course we're not going to tell Omma and Appa. We're just teasing Unnie and Oppa."
"Why you…" Jung-Hwa then chased the two girls, followed by a laughing Jae Eun.
They then spent about twenty minutes more, watching the spectacular view of Paris when Jan Di called Jung-Hwa to come down. It was time to go back.
"Are you sure you don't want to come home, Eunnie?" Ga Eul gently caressed her daughter's cheek. They were in Jae Eun's room in the So family suite at Shinhwa Hotel in London while the rest of the So members were watching TV in the living room.
"There's still a couple of weeks left before the semester starts." Jae Eun was accepted to the University of Arts London.
The young lady slowly shook her head. "I'd love to, Omma but there are still a few things to settle before the registration."
"Or we can stay here for your registration day?"
"But what about Appa's work? Dae-Jung Oppa and Hwannie Oppa? Their classes?"
"If they have work and classes, they can go back but Omma would love to stay. Dae-Seong and Precious will stay too. We want to see your University."
"But will Appa be alright? Appa needs Omma. Omma knows that, right?"
A small laugh escaped Ga Eul. "Yes, Appa needs Omma but Appa will be OK for a few days without Omma. Appa is a big boy."
Jae Eun joined in the laugh. Her Appa could be so childlike when it came to her Omma.
"Omma will discuss this with Appa and your brothers."
"OK, Omma. Eunnie hope that Omma and everybody can stay longer."
Jae Eun then embraced her mother.
"Eunnie, can Omma ask something?"
"Sure, Omma."
"Oh my, this is kind of embarrassing."
"What is it, Omma?"
"Have you and Jung-Hwa…"
In an instant, Jae Eun's face reddened. "No, Omma. We haven't."
Ga Eul nodded and smiled at the still blushing Jae Eun.
"Because of us?"
"Ey?"
"Is it because of us? Appa and Omma? Because of your promise to us?"
"Part of it but mainly because Eunnie am not ready yet, Omma." It was very embarrassing to discuss such matter with her mother but it might be what she needed to. She was finding it more difficult each time she and Jung-Hwa were alone.
"Omma can see it between the two of you, Eunnie. Omma have been there. Omma understand how it feels."
Jae Eun's shoulders relaxed.
"The two of you are here on your own. You only have each other and both of you are engaged, in love. It is very difficult to push away the feelings, needs, and urges."
"Yes, Omma…" a whispered answer. "Omma, it's so hard. The butterflies, the fluttering inside…When we're together, Eunnie just don't want Oppa to leave."
"All Omma can say is, follow your heart and know what you really want. Be responsible for all your decisions and actions, whatever they are. No regrets. You're an adult now. Big enough to know what's right and what's wrong. What's best and what's not for you. Remember, Eunnie. Be responsible and no regrets."
"Omma…"
"Omma trust you, Eunnie." Ga Eul tucked away some stray hairs behind her beautiful daughter's ear.
"Oppa is so caring and loving."
"And handsome?"
"Ommaaa…" Jae Eun's face blushed again.
"Oppa is handsome. The most handsome guy in this world."
"Oh, Appa will be disappointed if he hears that."
Both mother and daughter burst into laughter.
"Omma, will Omma get angry if Oppa and Eunnie decide to have our wedding outside of Korea?" Her cheeks could not get any redder.
"Oh? Where then?"
"Oppa and Eunnie love Lake Bled."
"Slovenia?"
"Yes, Omma."
"Hmmm. That's a very beautiful place, Eunnie. So you two have really discussed this already?"
Slowly and shyly, the young lady nodded.
"But you're not getting married soon, right?"
In an instant, Jae Eun shook her head, though she secretly wished for it.
"We'll have to discuss with Appa, Aunt Jan Di and Uncle Jun Pyo but knowing your Appa and Uncle Jun Pyo? As well as Jung-Hwa's Halmoni? Hmmm… you two may need to do a presentation for it."
Jae Eun groaned. Jung-Hwa and she had forgotten about his grandmother Kang. The elder would want to have a grand wedding reception for the whole of Korea's elite society to attend. All she and Jung-Hwa wanted was a closed private ceremony with the F4 families.
"Don't worry too much about it. It'll be at least three more years before the wedding. Just concentrate on your study first."
"Uhmmm Omma, so there's no way or any chance for Oppa and Eunnie to marry sooner?" She was trying her luck. She knew that they promised their parents that the wedding would not happen before she finished her study but the way things were happening between them made her want to be Jung-Hwa's wife as early as possible.
Ga Eul stopped what she was doing and looked at her daughter.
"Eunnie? Do you want to?"
"Just asking, Omma." She laughed nervously but a frown had formed on the elder's face.
"Be responsible and no regrets, Eunnie."
The young lady's heart dropped.
"Omma just don't want you to rush into this, Eunnie. Being a wife, that's a huge responsibility. Are you really sure you are ready for marriage? Being engaged now is different. Surely this is the step before marriage, the both of you are in love with each other and will be husband and wife but is that time in the nearest future? Will you be able to handle a married life while being a student? Of course, there are a lot of people who are in this situation and manage to go through all the challenges but this is you, your life. Then you'll have your career. Are you really sure you want this and you can do this?"
Jae Eun did not say anything but looked at her mother.
"Omma am not trying to scare you, Eunnie. Omma just want you to be really sure of what you want."
"Eunnie… Eunnie…" She lowered her head.
"Please promise Omma that Eunnie will give this a good thorough thought?" Ga Eul lifted Jae Eun's head with a thumb under the latter's chin and gave her a loving smile.
"Yes, Omma."
"Omma am glad that you asked."
Jae Eun's head bobbed in agreement.
Knock! Knock! Knock!
"Hey, is it OK to enter?" Yi Jeong stood in the middle of the door with the little Dae-Seong in his arms. "Dae-Seong wants his mother. It's time for his nap."
"Oh, Omma's baby…" Ga Eul stretched out her hands and Yi Jeong approached two of his favorite girls.
"Mammaa… Mammaa…"
Yi Jeong then sat next to Jae Eun.
"Hi."
"Hi, Appa." Jae Eun hugged her father.
"So, what's going on in here? We missed you outside."
"Oh, just girls' talk, Appa."
"That answer always scares me, Jagiya."
Ga Eul laughed at his statement.
"Nothing for you to worry about, Honey."
"Good to know."
"So Appa, what are we doing tomorrow?"
"Why don't you Londoners surprise us?"
"Londoners?"
"Well, you and Jung-Hwa know London better than us. What's good to do here?"
"Appa, we haven't explored all of London."
"Can we skip the museums and galleries? Dae-Jung said one more museum or gallery, then he'd die."
The three So laughed heartily.
"Poor Dae-Jung Oppa. Eunnie will talk to Jung-Hwa Oppa then." She then stood up to leave.
"Where are you going?" asked Yi Jeong.
"To talk to Jung-Hwa Oppa?"
"Later, during dinner. Now, Appa want to know about your University." He patted the seat for her to stay.
"Oh, about that, Honey. We need to discuss something."
And the So ladies told him.
"What? But Jagiya, I don't want to go back without you, Dae-Seong and Precious. Dae-Jung and Hwannie can go home with Jun Pyo if they have classes or programs."
"But your work?"
"I can have the meetings via teleconference. Eunnie, we didn't accompany you to college but for your first day in University, Appa want to be there too. It's a proud moment for a father. Moreover, we're already here so, why not?"
Ga Eul and Jae Eun smiles were radiant. More family time for them.
"I'll inform Gi Tae tomorrow about the arrangements."
"Eunnie love you, Appa. Thank you." Jae Eun had her hands wrapped around her father's waist.
"Appa love you more."
"Honey, since we're here do you think we can visit Dr. Merrimen at the hospital?" The said doctor at the Hospital of London was highly recommended by Ji Hoo regarding Jae Ji's condition and her file was sent to Dr. Merrimen a few years ago.
"I'll get Gi Tae to set an appointment."
"Thank you, Honey."
"Hmmm. Dae-Seong is such a good boy." He was sound asleep on his mother's laps.
"Yes, Appa. He's also grown up so fast and he looks more and more like Hwannie Oppa."
"That he is." Ga Eul's face brightened up more.
"Jagiya, just put him in the middle of the bed. The boys ordered room service. Come on, before your brothers cleaned them out, Eunnie."
The three members of the Gu traveled back to Seoul three days later without the So family. It turned out that Dae-Jung and Dae-Hwan did not want to miss out on Jae Eun's big day too.
During the days leading to the registration day, they managed to visit a few places and even traveled up north to Edinburgh as well as to Cornwall at the southwest of England. Jung-Hwa, on the other hand, had to go back to work and only joined them for dinners when they were in London.
On the last day in London, Jung-Hwa treated the So family for lunch at a restaurant said to be among the best restaurants that served the best of authentic British cuisine using British produce.
"That was a very hearty meal, and we haven't even had desserts. Thank you, Jung-Hwa." Yi Jeong leaned back against his chair and rubbed his tummy.
"Yes, Hyung. Look at my stomach." Dae-Jung mimicked his father, earning laughs from the rest.
"My colleague recommended this place and Eunnie and I have been here a few times. We love the food and ambiance."
The place was traditional yet elegant with its soft deco art interior design but minimalist in a way, suitable for a romantic couple dining but also children friendly.
"Uncle Yi Jeong, Aunt Ga Eul, Eunnie is staying in the University's resident, right?"
"Yes, although I wish that you're staying at the self-catering court rather than the residential college, Eunnie. You get to request for who your housemates will be: all girls and things like that."
"Appa… we've discussed this. I want to experience this. Besides, I can cook at Oppa's place if I want."
"I know. I know. So Jung-Hwa, you'd better keep an eye on Eunnie."
"Appa…I can take care of myself."
"Which is why I suggest Eunnie stays with me starting her second year."
All the Sos' eyes were now on him and Jung-Hwa could see different emotions in Yi Jeong's eyes and face. The head of the So family was definitely thinking hard and having conflicting feelings about this.
"Oppa…"
Jung-Hwa smiled lovingly at Jae Eun. Their discussion about the matter before they left for the trip was still pending.
Yi Jeong turned to his wife, wanting to know what she felt about it. If it was up to him, the answer would be a resounding NO. Not until those two were married. Ga Eul had a few times teased him regarding such matters. "So unlikely for an ex-Casanova," she said. But what could he do? He did not even understand why he was that way when it came to his daughters.
To his surprise, she looked calm and a small smile graced her matured but still beautiful face. She was also looking at him. He understood her message. His head dropped as a smile formed too. His wife sure was something.
Dae-Jung and Dae-Hwan offered their contrasting opinions: Dae-Jung going for against while Dae-Hwan was all for it. Each presented their points for their sister and Jung-Hwa to take into consideration.
"Omma, Appa?"
Yi Jeong took a deep breath and let out a long exhale.
"It's up to you, Eunnie."
To be truthful, Jae Eun was still undecided although as much as she wanted to be with Jung-Hwa, she wanted to have that independence for a bit longer. Furthermore, it was still a year up ahead to it. They would cross the bridge when they come to it.
"Promise you won't be mad, Oppa?"
Jung-Hwa shook his head. "I won't be mad at you. Promise."
"I don't have a final decision yet. I just want to have this experience first, to be a normal university student. Can we talk about this again after my first-year final exams? See how it goes this year?"
Ga Eul squeezed Yi Jeong's hand, a sign that she was satisfied with Jae Eun's answer. All she wanted was for Jae Eun to decide what was best for her. Yi Jeong too was relieved.
Jung-Hwa's smile was still on. "I can accept that."
"Thank you, Oppa." And awarded him with a kiss on the cheek.
"Now, that's all settled, should we call in for the desserts?" Dae-Hwan suggested.
"Yes, please!" answered the So's children in unison.
A year later
"That's the last box done. Thank goodness. I'm bushed."
Jae Eun plonked herself on the sofa in the middle of Jung-Hwa's apartment. Jung-Hwa chuckled at her state of unladylike-ness as he passed a mug of plain water to her. She thanked him before finishing the water in record time. She had just finished unpacking the last box of her stuff. It took them the whole day yesterday to move her things from college to his place, and the whole of today to unpack them.
"We need a bigger closet, Eunnie. Your clothes are taking over my space, and there's already a big one of your own in the other room."
Not so gently, she swatted his forearm and playfully glared at him. "Well forgive me for being a girl."
His shoulders shook from his laugh as he pulled her toward him and kissed the space between her eyebrows.
"A girl who is beautiful, smart and nice."
A beaming smile formed in an instant.
"So, what are we having for dinner, Oppa. I'm famished." During the unpacking, they only had a few light snacks.
"Let's go to Kingly Street. I miss its crispy chicken thighs."
"Oh. Let's. Let's. I want everything there. Beef tacos, bulgogi, carnitas fries, bibimbap… everything"
He playfully pinched her cheeks. "Whoa… slow down. For a slim girl, you sure eat a lot."
"What can I say? Their food is good and I like to eat. Come one, Oppa. Let's change and we can go." She stood up and pulled his hands to help him up.
"Oppa, what are you doing? Aren't you supposed to change?"
He had been sitting on the edge of the big bed staring at her.
"You're so beautiful. How am I so lucky to have you?" Slowly, he walked toward her, eyes never leaving her pretty doe eyes.
"Oppa…" Her heartbeats quickened at the familiar gaze. Her fingers automatically laced themselves behind his neck once he pulled her by the waist, pressing her against him.
"Eunnie, another year and you'll be my wife. I don't know how I can wait for that long. I've been dreaming of you being my missus for a long time." His soft lips tortured her along her neck before resting at the crook of it, him inhaling her sweet scent.
"It's your own fault. You should have 'negotiated' with Appa to move the date forward."
"And what? Get myself killed? No, thanks." His lips now moved to the other side of her neck.
Jae Eun rolled her eyes, both from his exaggeration and pleasure from his attacks. "Appa's not like that anymore. Appa would have understood."
His lips stopped on hers, then moving to the point of almost ravishing, and her knees turned wobbly, like always.
"Oppa, stop. We have to go. I'm hungry."
"I'm hungry too. For you."
"Oppa…" She wanted him too but her stomach was rumbling in protest.
"Aish…" He gave her another kiss on the lips before stepping backward. "I can never win with that tummy of yours." His hand gently rubbed her flat stomach.
Jae Eun's head tilted back from her laugh. "I'll make it up to you when we come home, Oppa. I promise."
"You'd better. Oh, you'd better eat up all your food too. For what I've planned for us later, you'd need the energy."
Her face instantly became red. "OPPA!" but he just mischievously flashed his teeth. He loved to see her flushed.
Once he had changed into a pair of jeans and a simple t-shirt, they left their apartment, hand-in-hand.
The future for both of them was looking good and bright. He was promoted to a senior position at his workplace and was also assisting his father Jun Pyo to open up another Shinhwa Hotel in England. For Jae Hwa, she was building a reputation of her own by being 'The Most Promising" in her faculty and had been already offered by a couple of professors to undertake her final year project under their supervision. Being the daughter of So Yi Jeong, South Korea's famous potter had its perks but Jae Hwa made sure that the professors and people saw her for her own talent and hard work.
The couple had also discussed the very high possibility of them to stay in London after Jae Eun's graduation. She wanted to chase her childhood dream of becoming an international designer and Jung-Hwa was going to support her all the way.
With regards to Jae Eun moving into Jung-Hwa's place, the So and Gu elders, especially Yi Jeong, finally accepted her decision after a long whining that Ga Eul took pleasure of watching. "They are grown-ups and very much in love. It's inevitable," was what Woo Bin had said all along. Their wedding was due next year right after Jae Eun's graduation. To their great surprise, their wedding would be held in the castle in Lake Bled, Slovenia. Ga Eul remembered that it was what Jae Eun had expressed during their Europe trip and even if it was just a daydream for the young lady at that time, Ga Eul thought that this would be a great wedding gift for the couple.
So Jae Eun and Gu Jung-Hwa. May they lived happily ever after.
-END OF JAE EUN AND JUNG-HWA MINI STORY-