A/N: Hi everyone! I am so sorry about the delay on this! Thank you for the patience, and forgive me! ::bows:: I'd just like to say thank you to all who have taken the time out of their days to read any of my stories, particularly those of you have read ALL of them (and those who have taken even more time to review). And I want you to know that I greatly appreciate all the support! It makes me very happy when others read and enjoy my stories, so kamsahamnida! J And even for those who have not enjoyed or have had different opinions, I appreciate the time you have taken to read and offer feedback. Thank you all; you guys are great!

The attempt here was for this to be highly emotional, dramatic, a bit fluffy (at parts), and sensual… JanHoo are a tad bit naughty in this chapter, just to warn you. Though I love the cuteness and innocence of K-dramas—and like to retain that—I wanted to explore something else. Possibly some OOC in this chapter, but hopefully not too much. And keep in mind: it's an AU; they're getting older, and they've both been through a lot… Those are my weak excuses to justify the extra romance. But I hope you all enjoy! This is a long one!

WARNING: I did change the rating on this (from T to M) to be on the safe side because it was verging a bit more upon the mature side. It's not explicit by any means, and I'd say it's more metaphorical and suggestive than highly descriptive, but just to be safe, I wanted to put a warning out there for any younger readers. It's probably between T and M. Don't be expecting a lemon or anything (and not even really a lime), but if you're under 16, or the more mature stuff makes you uncomfortable, then be wary. This is probably pretty tame for M standards, I'd say, but again, I just wanted to be on the safe side. Branching out into the bit more mature is new territory for me. I've never written anything like this before. It was a bit embarrassing and probably not very good, so don't expect much… I really wanted it to be more romantic and sensual than anything. But feel free to critique me or offer thoughts/suggestions.

And if you don't like Ji Hoo or the idea of Jan Di and Ji Hoo together, that's fine, but you probably won't like this, so be forewarned.

Guest 2: Yep, lots of tension! Hope you enjoy this chapter!

Ghost: Yea, I hate to make Ji Hoo suffer, but I think it makes for a more interesting read, and better in the end… ;) This chapter is a bit more mature. I don't know if it will satisfy you, but it's what I felt comfortable with for now, haha. Hope you enjoy!

To Guest 1 and a General Note: I understand and respect that. Yes, I prefer the JanHoo pairing, but I also liked Jun Pyo (and JanPyo) and acknowledge that he was kind after a few episodes. He and Jan Di had a lot of sweet moments and really loved each other. I just happened to prefer the other "pairing" and believed Ji Hoo was better for Jan Di. And I wondered what could have been with them... I don't try to make Jun Pyo out to be evil. He's stubborn and bad-tempered, but loving. And if I did make him seem evil, that was unintentional. Perhaps my biases came out, but ultimately, I try to keep everyone in character while using my own creativity to put them in different scenarios. And I really wrote Jun Pyo doing nothing evil to Jan Di in this story. He simply couldn't remember her…that's not his fault. And this probably would have never happened, and it would have been sad (if JP failed to remember), but this is an AU (alternate universe, what-if) story. Not everyone likes those, and that's fine. I just wanted to explore what might have happened…

That is the beauty of fanfiction; it allows use to be creative and alter or add to our favorite stories, shows/TV, etc. I really loved all the BoF characters, including JP, and I hope to do them justice. And I felt that both guys' interactions with Jan Di made the show what it was. Both guys were needed for balance and for the plot to work. And though my stories tend to gravitate toward JanHoo, I still try to put nice moments in for JanPyo and demonstrate the love they had for each other, as well as have them in each other's lives in some form or another.

I was just sad and frustrated for Ji Hoo (I think a lot of the JanHoo shippers were), and I wanted to try my hand at giving him a happy ending, if only in an alternate reality. There was no easy way to wrap it up because both of them loved her so much, and the show was certainly set up to where Jun Pyo had to end up with her. Even I acknowledge that it wouldn't have worked out for JanHoo in the show as-was, which is why I use fanfiction to work out some of my thoughts on it, while still attempting to give credit to the show and all its characters. But thank you for reading and for your feedback.

Sorry everyone for the super long author note this time!

Part II

Jun Pyo stood in Ji Hoo's living room, with Jan Di in his arms.

"Jan Di…Jan Di-yah…," he muttered tenderly—in a voice that was new to her but resonated Jun Pyo—as he clung to her. His embrace was powerful, almost physically hurting her. But it was the emotional pain that was far worse for Jan Di…

Jun Pyo held Jan Di as if he hadn't seen her in years, and it felt that way, for both of them, actually… Jan Di stood there, rigid against him, her breathing labored. A hundred different thoughts and emotions were coursing through her, and she couldn't begin to describe what she was currently feeling…

A few moments ago, she had been so happy, but now… Well, she should be happy now. She should be ecstatic, shouldn't she? Gu Jun Pyo—the man she had loved so deeply, the man who had forgotten all about her—remembered her now. And he was back—after half a year apart—holding her in his arms and saying her name.

They could be together, at last… They could continue their relationship, but then again…how could they possibly do that now, after all that had taken place? Four months ago, this would have been a dream come true, but now things were so completely different… Just as she'd gotten adjusted to one reality, another one had presented itself. Jan Di wanted to simultaneously scream and cry.

Jun Pyo pulled Jan Di back to gaze upon her. He seemed to be studying her, seeing her anew after so many months of her being lost from his memories. Jun Pyo held Jan Di by the arms. She was silent, and he could see the moisture forming within her mahogany eyes.

Why is she crying? He wondered. Jun Pyo assumed they were simply tears of happiness...

"Wh-what's…going on, Jun Pyo?" Jan Di asked, once able to form words.

"I'm back," he stated.

How expositional.

Her forehead wrinkled in confusion, "But…but…what…how...?" she stammered, not sure why she couldn't seem to form a proper sentence.

"I remember everything now, Jan Di-yah... Mianhae… Mianhada…"

She stared into the depths of his dark eyes, once again unable to speak. And he pulled her in tight against his chest. But she pulled back.

"When…how…how did this happen?" Jan Di glanced away and released a heavy laden breath. She wasn't sure why she was asking such stupid questions— well, they weren't stupid exactly, for it was a mystery to her as to how and when his memory was restored. But truthfully, she was just in such shock, and she didn't yet know how to feel about this.

Jun Pyo exhaled and grasped onto her arms, his thumb tracing the curve of the upper portion.

"While I was in the States, I just kept feeling like something wasn't right, you know? I was distracted all the time. I couldn't sleep… I just knew something was wrong, that something was missing from my life… I kept obsessing about it... And then I started thinking about the night of the pool party…what you said to me… And then, when you were under the water… I just kept seeing that image in my head… I had nightmares about it actually, and then one day, I didn't just see it, but I heard it. Your name…"

Jan Di felt the tears welling up at the corners of her eyes, and her breathing escalated.

"Geum Jan Di, Geum Jan Di, Geum Jan Di…," Jun Pyo repeated her name over and over. "You wanted me to call it out, right?"

Jan Di's eyes were saturated now. She sniffled and turned from him.

It's too late for that now, Gu Jun Pyo…

And she suddenly choked out a sob.

"Why are you crying?" he asked, utterly confused by the nature and extent of her emotion.

Women…

Sure, she must be shocked, but shouldn't she also be thrilled and relieved that they were together again? She seemed more sad than happy… He made a move toward her, needing to take her in his arms again, but she held up a hand again to stop him.

Jan Di released an exasperated sigh and shook her head back and forth rapidly in disbelief.

Why all of a sudden…? Why now…after…? Why not before…?

Jan Di thought of all that had happened between Ji Hoo and her during Jun Pyo's absence. As realization dawned upon her, she felt tiny prickles all throughout her chest, and she was suddenly struggling to breathe…

Prior to Jun Pyo's return…

Ji Hoo had been taking things slowly with Jan Di, treating her delicately, as a priceless work of art. And that was exactly what she was for him. She was a masterpiece, equally beautiful and priceless. It was difficult—in a way—for Ji Hoo to take things slowly with Jan Di when every fiber of his being ached to kiss her, to touch her, almost constantly. It was a bit embarrassing and frustrating for him actually, to feel so out of control inside…

But, on the other hand, it was simple for him to take things slowly…because he cared so much for her… And it was his job, as her firefighter, to keep her safe and to make her happy. And he vowed to do just that, always. His own needs…well, they would just have to settle for second place.

Jan Di and Ji Hoo's relationship had progressed, but it was very sweet and innocent. Their affection consisted of hugs, occasional hand-holding, and a gentle kiss here and there. And it wasn't always a kiss on the lips. Sometimes it was a kiss to the forehead, cheek, or hand.

Jan Di had still been occasionally—well, frequently was probably a better word—falling asleep next to Ji Hoo in his bed. She still felt a bit guilty about that, but it never went further than cuddling and perhaps a kiss.

Jan Di and Ji Hoo had shared the two passionate kisses—the first, after Ji Hoo proclaimed his feelings, and the second, after Jan Di told him that she was ready to move on and wanted to be with him.

But their kisses since then were usually sweet and gentle. In fact, that described their relationship perfectly—sweet and gentle. Ji Hoo was always treating Jan Di like something that could be broken, and again…it was sweet, but she had to admit that she didn't always like that... Ji Hoo knew, as well as anyone, that Jan Di was not some delicate flower, but he always treated her as such… He couldn't seem to help himself…

As the weeks passed, Jan Di and Ji Hoo became even more comfortable with each other—as a couple—and they began to move past previous borders. For one, there had been a couple of make-out sessions.

It was a bit embarrassing, but Jan Di was more than curious and anxious to experience more…and different types of affection from Ji Hoo… And she wanted Ji Hoo to know that he didn't always have to treat her like some porcelain doll that could break at any moment…

She had considered talking to him about it, but how in the world does one go about bringing something like that up? And what would he think of such boldness from her?

Still, their relationship had been progressing, though it seemed that whenever things seemed to be…heating up…one of them would put the brakes on, or there would be some interruption…

For instance, Grandfather had caught them once, kissing on the couch. And the tension in the air that followed could have been cut with a knife. Grandfather had given them a talking-to that would surely leave a lasting brand of humiliation on the both of them. Jan Di had been utterly mortified, so she just kept her head low, while they both listened to the lecture in uncomfortable silence. Ji Hoo had been respectful about it, but Jan Di could tell he was annoyed at being treated like a child… Grandfather had basically warned them not to go too fast and to think about their futures…and the consequences of their actions…yada yada…all things they already knew…

But Grandfather was only looking out for them, wasn't he? Jan Di reminded herself. She should have explained to Harabeoji how gentlemanly his grandson was actually being…

The night before Jun Pyo's return…

Jan Di and Ji Hoo sat in the living room together, studying for a test in Anatomy. Jan Di had managed to pass the entrance exam and get into the pre-med program at Shinwha—with a lot of help from Ji Hoo, of course—and she was determined not to flunk out.

Jan Di had been focusing so hard upon the text that her eyes began to blur slightly. She blinked them a few times. Then, she glanced over at Ji Hoo, and she became distracted… Her thoughts drifted to things other than studying… And Jan Di got caught up in watching Ji Hoo… She couldn't help herself; he looked so cute when he concentrated…

His reading glasses rested upon his nose, as he speed-read through a section. His copper hair had grown longer—reaching midway down his neck—and his bangs were the same sweeping, boyish ones she'd become accustomed to. While he read, she noticed a tuft of his bangs fall out of place and across the rim of his glasses, partially covering his eyes. Jan Di's lips twitched into a small smile, and she felt the irresistible urge to brush them aside. She began to reach out for him...

"Jan Di…," Ji Hoo suddenly spoke, without looking at her. Jan Di jerked her hand back, practically falling off the couch in the process, "Ehh?"

"Did you finish that section? Are you ready for me to quiz you?"

Oh crap… She gave a nervous chuckle, "Uh, umm, well, not yet…," she stammered. He turned his eyes to her, studying her for a moment. She kind of hated when he did that because it usually occurred after she'd been caught in an embarrassing or awkward moment.

Her cheeks had a slight rosy tint to them, and she wore a nervous smile, which usually indicated for him that she'd been up to some mischief.

"Are you losing focus?" he asked seriously, "Do you need a study break, my otter?"

She glanced away and cleared her throat, "Yeah, maybe…"

Ji Hoo studied her curiously again and shut the book. "Everything alright?" he placed it upon the coffee table and moved closer to her, touching her arm lightly.

She nodded and then paused for a second before speaking, "Ji Hoo…"

"You said my name?" Usually it was a constant battle to get her to do so.

"Yes, because I want to say something serious..."

"Ah, something serious…," he took his glasses off and set them atop the textbook on the table. This didn't sound good… Did she have some bad news to share? Ji Hoo turned to Jan Di and gave her his undivided attention. He watched her wring her hands lightly, while he waited for her to speak.

Jan Di had been happy dating Ji Hoo, and he deserved to know that. Her thoughts of Jun Pyo were still there, but they had become more sporadic. She would have a fleeting thought of him now and then. And this usually left her guilt-ridden, particularly when she was spending time with Ji Hoo. However, those thoughts were not ones of longing anymore, but rather curious ones… She would wonder how he was, for example, or what he had been up to… And she would send him well-wishes. She was no longer raw, and she had never thought ill of Jun Pyo for any of it, but she could so much more easily hope for his happiness independent of her now.

After a moment of silence, Jan Di took a deep breath and finally spoke, "Ji Hoo…," she repeated, making eye contact, "I wanted to tell you…how thankful I am for you. I don't know how I would have survived…all this…without you…," she paused.

He gave her a tender smile and nodded, though his stomach still felt unsettled. Did she have something more to say to him?

"…So thank you, Ji Hoo-yah, for all you've done for me...and for being so patient with me over the past six months. Well, for much longer than that, really…," she gave him a rueful smile, one of simultaneous regret and gratitude over all she'd put him through over the years. She knew that she couldn't have been easy to deal with all this time…

Ji Hoo smiled and nodded. "Of course. There's no need for thanks. I'd do anything for you, Otter."

Jan Di smiled affectionately at Ji Hoo. She already knew this to be true, though Ji Hoo never used to speak his mind so freely, even if he did show her how he felt through his actions.

She gathered her courage, "I've been really happy with you these past two months, Ji Hoo-yah...," she said, looking into his eyes once more. And it was true. Jan Di had always been grateful for Ji Hoo. He was like a guardian angel, but she realized that her feelings for him had grown much stronger during the past few months…

"Aw, I've been really happy with you, too, Otter," he revealed his brilliant smile and reached out for her, stroking her soft cheek with the back of his knuckle.

Jan Di smiled and glanced down at her hands, "There's something else…," she mumbled.

"Oh?" he dropped his hand to his lap and studied her. Jan Di was silent and avoiding eye contact again. She seemed to be struggling to find the words she was searching for, and Ji Hoo suddenly felt a familiar knot forming in his stomach.

Ji Hoo took a deep breath in preparation. "Jan Di-yah, whatever it is, you can tell me… You can tell me anything…," he said, doing his best to hide the anxiety. He reached over to take one of her hands in his, interlacing their fingers.

Jan Di smiled faintly. This was one of the few things she didn't feel she could say to him… But she smiled tenderly, as she observed their interlocking fingers. Ji Hoo gave her hand a light squeeze of encouragement, and she returned it.

He always knew exactly what to say and do to put her at ease… My dear, sweet Ji Hoo… Where would I be without you…?

All she wanted was to give back to him all the love and support he'd lavished upon her over the years. She wanted to give him so much, just as he'd given her… She wanted to give him complete and utter happiness. She wanted to give him everything… But all she really had to give was herself…

Why he would want that was a mystery to Jan Di, but he seemed to. And she knew she couldn't be halfhearted with him anymore… He deserved more than that. He deserved all of her, which—she had to admit—she had yet to give… Jan Di was through with holding back now…

Ji Hoo had a horrible, gnawing feeling lodged in his gut. Her silence was killing him. He could normally read her so well, but right now she was a mystery. The small, affectionate—yet almost sad—smile upon her lips was terrifying him. And he felt a pang in his heart.

He was expecting some catastrophic news, such as that she was ending things with him, but instead, she kept hold of his hand and squeezed it tighter. And then she seemed to give up on words altogether and suddenly leaned over slightly to kiss him.

…

Jan Di was still inexperienced at love, but she'd picked up some tricks of the trade from him over the past few months. Jan Di's skills had slowly been improving, but honestly—for Ji Hoo—it didn't take much from her to excite him. Because it was her…

Jan Di's kisses were typically modest—short and sweet. Still, she put her feelings into them. But this one—that she was currently bestowing upon him—was much different than any other she had given him. This kiss was slower, deeper, more sensual, and it was lingering, as if leading somewhere…

Ji Hoo decided to stop foolishly analyzing the kiss and instead participated, grasping onto her arms and pulling her against his chest.

They broke apart and stared into each other's eyes. Jan Di gave a nervous chuckle and glanced downward, hoping that her actions had articulately spoken the words she'd been afraid to…

"Jan Di-yah...," Ji Hoo whispered.

"Hm?" She looked at him curiously, as he inched closer to her. And then he took her face in his hands. She met his eyes, just in time to see a look of pure love and longing before he captured her lips again with his own. He stroked her cheek lightly with his thumb as he deepened the kiss. As their tongues mingled, Jan Di thought of the first time he'd given her such a kiss—she'd been utterly shocked and didn't know what to do. She was also thinking how amazing it was, and she wondered what was to come next…

They finally broke the kiss, panting faintly. They looked at one another, and the tension surrounding them was palpable. They quickly looked away. It was so silly… Why were they suddenly acting so awkward around one another?

Perhaps it was the unavoidable reality—both dangerous and alluring—that they were all alone…

The notion of Grandfather living there and keeping a watchful eye over them had been further reason for their relationship to proceed at a snail-like pace. But there was no Grandfather now. They were all alone and both were acutely aware of the implications of that…

Ji Hoo had the feeling that something was different tonight and that great changes were about to occur… Perhaps it was that sixth sense he seemed to have with Jan Di. But it wasn't the emergency bell that he sensed this time…it was something else…

Ji Hoo was an observer by nature, and though he had limited experience with women—due to his strong loyalties—he still knew women well. He could always read their signs with ease, and he could read Jan Di best of all… Jan Di was an open book to Ji Hoo—his favorite book at that, a book he'd been reading, re-reading, and greatly enjoying over the years. And he loved to discover all her little nuances between the lines each time he read… Years of experience with Jan Di had given Ji Hoo the ability to practically read her mind… And without saying it, she seemed to be telling him that she wanted to move forward a bit with their relationship…

Clearly, they both wanted the same thing, but neither wanted to make the first move, probably out of fear of being wrong… Ji Hoo deliberated with himself. He certainly did not want to be wrong about something like this… It could horribly backfire… The best thing, he supposed, was to talk about it with her, openly and honestly…

Jan Di had also been wrestling with that inner voice of hers. She finally made up her mind. She had mentally prepared herself to start something with him—she'd been considering it for a while now—and like the stubborn weed she was, she was going to see it through…

Ji Hoo prepared to begin a conversation with Jan Di about their relationship, but before he could broach the subject, Jan Di suddenly grabbed him by his shirt collar, and their lips crashed together like waves against a rocky shore. Jan Di held him there, fingering the skin surrounding his collar, and he wrapped his arms around her. Slowly, she began to deepen the kiss…

Screw talking! Ji Hoo thought, as he roamed his hands across her back. It was over-rated, and he'd never cared much for it anyway…

Jan Di sucked lightly upon his lower lip, giving it a little bite before they separated. Ji Hoo pulled back and stared at her in disbelief.

Jan Di's face turned crimson. "I'm sorry!" she exclaimed, hoping she hadn't bitten him too hard.

Ji Hoo grinned, "No, no need to be sorry at all…," he said in a velvety voice, as his head dipped lower.

Ji Hoo grazed her jawline with his lips and then gave her ear a nibble. Jan Di gave a gasp of pleasure, as he began moving down her neck with a slow, torturous skill. His lips sank in deeper, though he paid heed to the pressure applied, so as not to leave visible marks…

It was simultaneous bliss and torment for Jan Di, the feel of his lips caressing the soft, sensitive skin of her neck. Small sighs escaped Jan Di's throat as he continued along his course, leaving no spot unturned… Jan Di had never experienced such incredible pleasure before as when he would hit just the right spots…. And she had to shut her eyes tight and hold onto him.

Before either of them realized what was happening, Jan Di was pulling Ji Hoo up by the hand and leading him toward his bedroom… Ji Hoo could have been knocked out by a feather… And he briefly wondered if he had fallen asleep and slipped into one of his fantasies… He drifted off so easily that it was entirely possible, after all…

It certainly felt real, though… If it wasn't, then it was—by far—the most lifelike and incredible dream he'd had yet…

Or, perhaps it was real and Jan Di had simply lost her mind… To his recollection, she hadn't suffered a head injury, though... But whatever the cause, Ji Hoo decided to simply thank his lucky stars for her temporary insanity…

As Jan Di tugged at his hand—guiding him toward their destination—Ji Hoo wondered what this beautiful Siren planned to do with him and how far she would take this…

Truth be told, Jan Di had no idea what she was doing… It wasn't like her at all to behave in such a way, and she hadn't even really thought it through… But she had been thinking about Ji Hoo a lot lately… All she really knew—right now—was that she wanted to become closer to him…in a more…intimate way…

As Jan Di led Ji Hoo by the hand—amazed that he hadn't stopped to question her—she steeled herself… It seemed like a dangerous path they were walking, but at the moment neither of them could care less.

The distance to the bedroom seemed so much further than Ji Hoo recalled, and he was struggling to restrain his desire. He needed to feel more of her than just her hand; he needed her body against his again, and soon.

They took a few more strides and—unable to withstand it any longer—Ji Hoo stopped. Jan Di turned to look at him curiously, expecting him to put the brakes on the endeavor… But instead he captured her in his arms and kissed her fiercely. He dropped his hands to her hips, and she ran her fingers all throughout his luxurious hair.

It wasn't as if she hadn't touched it before… But she'd never taken the time to really…enjoy…it. It was so soft and even nicer than it looked, and she allowed her fingers to lose their way within the strands.

Jan Di pulled her lips away too soon for Ji Hoo's liking—and his own protested—but she seemed to be on a mission. She grasped onto his fingertips with her entire hand and again pulled him along behind her. They intermittently stopped for kisses and caresses to sustain them along the journey…

Just before reaching his room, Jan Di turned to Ji Hoo, and they gazed into each other's eyes. Jan Di wrapped her arms around Ji hoo's waist and went up on her toes to kiss him again. He met her halfway. With lips still locked, Jan Di attempted to walk backward, while pulling him along with her… But the infamous Geum Jan Di klutziness struck, and she nearly ran the both of them into the wall.

Ji Hoo noticed this just in time—he should not have let her steer—and he pulled a quick maneuver, spinning her out of the way and taking the hit himself. Ji Hoo gave a small groan as his back slammed against the wall.

Perhaps this beautiful creature had been sent to destroy him, after all, he thought with a wry smile.

"Sorry, sorry!" Jan Di exclaimed, through shallow breaths. Ji Hoo shook his head affectionately at her, and they both gave a synchronous chuckle.

The corners of Ji Hoo's mouth twitched, and he pulled her in once more. She was leaning against him—he, against the wall—with one of her thighs resting between his legs. She felt she should keep some distance, but he only drew her closer until her body was flush with his.

Ji Hoo's hands rested on her waist, and she clung to his neck, shyly staring. Her eyelashes fluttered shut, and he placed soft kisses upon her rosy lips, her flushed cheeks, and each eyelid. Then, he proceeded with firm yet gentle nips down her neck, tugging aside her hoodie to expose more skin. All the while, he ran his hands up and down the length of her back and she embraced him tight around the neck.

It was all becoming too much for Ji Hoo to bear… And he suddenly broke away, breathless, "Do you…want me…to stop?" he asked in a husky voice, his words coming out broken. He had wanted to ensure that she was OK with everything that was happening, but he also needed to take a moment to regain control of his body.

Jan Di shook her head to indicate she did not want him to stop. It was the most thrilling head shake Ji Hoo had ever experienced, and he felt as though his heart would leap out of his chest. He pressed a sweet kiss to her lips.

They stopped just inside the bedroom doorway, and Ji Hoo took Jan Di's hands in his. "Are you sure about this?" he asked gently.

Shut up, you idiot! Ji Hoo's internal voice shouted at him.

Jan Di stared into his eyes for a moment, while pondering. She bit down on her lip lightly and slowly nodded. And Ji Hoo led her inside his room.

This night was wildly spinning out of control, going faster and faster, like a merry-go-round. Who knew where it would stop? But, surely one of them would halt things soon enough.

Jan Di felt naughty, bad even… It wasn't like her to be so bold, so aggressive… And she was surprised he was following her headlong down this path. But the sensations coursing through both of their bodies were simply too much, too powerful and had laid siege to their better judgment.

Jan Di's head was swirling; she wasn't thinking straight… She wasn't thinking at all, in fact. That was her only excuse. She had long since stopped thinking and was now simply feeling…

Ji Hoo held Jan Di's hands and gazed into her dark orbs, wordlessly asking 'what next?' He could easily take the lead, but he didn't want to overstep his bounds. And she had started this whole thing, after all…

But Jan Di didn't really know herself. All she knew right now was that it was very good thing they stopped for a moment to compose themselves. Now what…?

Jan Di cast her eyes downward, suddenly becoming distinctly aware of all that had taken place and where they were currently standing. Jan Di swallowed the hard lump in her throat. They exchanged an electrically-charged look, and all of a sudden Jan Di was helping Ji Hoo to remove his t-shirt…

Or, trying to rather… But it wasn't turning out like one of those romantic scenes from a movie, for Jan Di was struggling with the garment. Her fingers trembled with nervousness—she wasn't at all sure she should be doing this—as she tugged lightly at the hem of his shirt, like a child begging for attention.

Ji Hoo gave Jan Di a little smile and then placed his hands upon hers to steady the shaking. He brought one of her hands to his lips to place a tender kiss upon the knuckle. Jan Di smiled, and Ji Hoo gently released her hand.

And then Ji Hoo pulled the shirt clear over his head in one swift motion. Jan Di's eyes grew wide, and she simply stared in awe as he tossed it away. OK, so he made it look good, like in the movies...

Jan Di stood there—perfectly still and staring like a moron at Ji Hoo's bare chest. She suddenly needed to remind herself to do that little thing called breathing… Her lips parted, as she gazed upon his magnificence, and she bit down hard.

Her breathing had practically come to a halt but was rapidly speeding up again—catching and exceeding its original pace. Her chest rose and fell heavily, and her heart seemed to be in a race with her breathing.

Jan Di was now very much aware that she was staring at the naked chest of a man, and not just any man…but none other than Yoon Ji Hoo. Her firefighter… Her first love… And to her, the most beautiful man she'd ever seen… How could she be expected to keep control?

OK, Geum Jan Di, keep it together… Don't get carried away…

It wasn't as if she hadn't seen him without his shirt on before, but it had only been a quick glance and not at this proximity or in such a situation…

She didn't have much time to look her fill though, for Ji Hoo placed his hands upon her waist and pulled her closer. Jan Di gasped lightly in pleasant surprise.

Jan Di was curious—that was for sure—but she was once again fighting an internal battle… She wanted to touch him badly, but she didn't think she should… Her anxiety was enough to douse the fire within, at least for the moment, and she stopped to ponder her actions so far…

What must he think of me for leading him to his room and convincing him to remove his shirt? She wondered. What is he expecting? Jan Di didn't even know what she was offering… She didn't feel ready to go…all the way, though... Would he think her just a tease?

But this was her Ji Hoo, she reminded herself. This was her firefighter, her prince, the man she knew—beyond a doubt—that she could trust with her life and her heart… And that thought immediately put her mind at ease.

Surely he won't mind if I touch him…

Jan Di's bolder side won out, and she began to reach for him…slowly, carefully… Ji Hoo stood there, watching her every move, still in a state of shock. Was this truly Geum Jan Di before him now?

Jan Di's fingertips came in range of his chest. She touched him—just barely—but then immediately recoiled as if she'd received an electric shock. "I'm—I'm sorry!" she muttered, casting her eyes to the floor.

Ji Hoo gave her that angelic smile of his. "No need to be sorry…," he said in a silky voice, "You can touch me if you want to, Geum Jan Di. I am yours to touch, however you'd like, whenever you'd like…" his words were sincere.

Jan Di's cheeks flushed a lovely shade—matching the cherry blossoms in spring—at his bold statement.

Ji Hoo placed a hand behind her head and brought her in, pressing his lips to her forehead in that loving way of his. Then, he interlaced their fingers and slowly brought her hands up, placing them gently upon the firm, flat surface of his upper body.

Jan Di could feel the warmth radiating from him and the thump of his racing heartbeat, as her palms rested against his chest. With a shaky breath, Jan Di dragged her hands slowly downward, tracing the grooves of his smooth, well-muscled chest, and she felt his body shudder at the contact.

Jan Di had suddenly become an artist—her fingers were brushes, and he was her canvas—but she was a mere novice. She was simply experimenting with her touch now, placing soft, delicate brushstrokes upon his skin. But at the same time, she was putting all of herself and all of her love into it.

Ji Hoo's self-control hung in the balance, by a very, very thin thread… The way she was touching him threatened to make him lose his sanity, and he needed to touch her, too…

They began exchanging touches, and each one brought with it an electrical pulse of exhilaration. His hands followed and guided hers…returning her caresses, touch-for-touch.

Ji Hoo was the more experienced artist—with the more adept hand—but this was a brand new canvas for him, one completely white, clean, and untouched… And he vowed never to taint it.

With a cautious stroke, Jan Di moved down to graze his abdominals. She felt the muscles tighten and Ji Hoo gave out a pleasure groan. Jan Di suddenly felt very shy and nervous about touching him in such an intimate way. She pulled back her hands and shut her eyes tight.

"Are you OK, Jan Di-yah?" he gently asked. She nodded fervently, with still closed eyes.

After a moment, she opened her eyes to see him gazing lovingly upon her. "It's OK…," he whispered in a throaty tone. Jan Di smiled. And he cupped her face, pressing a reassuring kiss to her lips.

Her mahogany eyes wandered over him, settling upon a ring of silver and gold that dangled from a chain and rested in the hollow of his throat.

It was his grandmother and mother's ring—the same ring he'd recently offered her, the one she'd turned down… She felt a pang within her heart, that he would offer her something so precious… And that she had to turn it down…

But she couldn't have possibly accepted it at that time… She didn't have those feelings for him then, but now… Well, things were so different now…

Jan Di couldn't believe how things had changed so quickly, so completely. It was strange… She hadn't expected to heal so fully, not so soon anyway… And it made her feel a bit guilty.

Jan Di recalled having—rather foolishly—resigned herself to a life without love after things ended with Jun Pyo. She hadn't expected to fall for anyone else, and least of all, her first love… But what she was feeling for Ji Hoo now was so much more than the all-encompassing schoolgirl crush of years ago.

Falling for Ji Hoo again had completely taken Jan Di by surprise. But, how could she not fall in love with him after everything they'd been through together? He'd been her partner the entire time… And wasn't it perfectly natural to fall in love with one's soulmate?

Ji Hoo looked down at Jan Di as she traced the outline of his ring, wondering what she might be thinking…

She suddenly threw her arms around his waist and buried her face into his chest. It was a silent proclamation of sorrow and thanks for all that he'd endured because of her.

Ji Hoo pressed her against him, holding her close for a moment. Then, he brought her back and gazed upon her with a hint of concern. She looked back with moist, emotional eyes. Ji Hoo and Jan Di had always had this incredible connection that transcended words, and in the moment their eyes seemed to say it all. Ji Hoo gave her a sweet smile before placing a finger beneath her chin and lifting her face. And his lips descended upon hers for a tender kiss.

Jan Di wore a sweatshirt, which Ji Hoo desperately wanted to take off for her. He'd noticed that she had something on underneath, so he felt more confident that she would allow him. Ji Hoo curled his fingers underneath the hem of her sweatshirt—looking into her eyes for approval—and began to deliberately peel the garment upward. She not only didn't stop him, but she suddenly lifted her arms over her head to make it easier for him to remove.

Ji Hoo revealed his flawless smile. He slipped the sweatshirt effortlessly over her head, leaving her standing there in a tank top and shorts. Out of modesty, Jan Di wrapped her arms around herself.

Ji Hoo took a moment to admire Jan Di's slightly more exposed form. She was petite and feminine, yet muscular. The midnight blue tank top nicely accentuated the form of her breasts, and Ji Hoo had to force himself not to stare.

He took a deep breath. "Is this… Are you OK?" he asked gently, and she nodded.

Ji Hoo proceeded to run his fingers lightly along her exposed forearms and down to her fingers, causing goosebumps to immediately rise up. He rubbed in a brisk fashion to banish them for her. Then, his hands dropped to her waist. They rested there—content for a moment—before slowly but surely traveling upward, wrinkling the fabric along the course and lightly grazing the outline of her rib cage. As his fingers came inches from the sides of her breasts, he hesitated... She sucked in a gulp of air.

So…very…close…

It was more than tempting for him to touch her there, but Ji Hoo did not want to press his luck further tonight… And he certainly did not want to upset her or make her uncomfortable. So, he passed over the area and instead placed his hands upon her bare shoulders, tickling the skin along her neck and clavicle with his fingers, like keys on the piano.

Then, he leaned in for a kiss, and she met him in the middle. Their mouths battled in a playful tug-of-war, while his hands roamed over the expanse of her back, grasping and kneading. And she leaned into him.

Ji Hoo continued kissing Jan Di, while firmly massaging her sides and back. And then he brought one hand up to her hair. He tangled it within the ebony strands, as he pressed her into him with the other. Ji Hoo was still avoiding the more sensitive areas of Jan Di. He knew that he'd been testing the boundaries quite a bit tonight and had nearly lost himself several times to the sensations. But he'd also been ever conscious of her reactions, remaining wary of any indication that she wanted him to stop.

Jan Di finally pulled away, only for the sake of getting oxygen…

Wow, he has strong lungs… He should play the saxophone or the trumpet or something…

Ji Hoo held her shoulders; he leaned forward slightly.

"Jan Di-yah, is this moving too fast for you?"

She was still gasping lightly for air. She hesitated briefly and then shook her head.

Ji Hoo gave her shoulders a light squeeze. "…Jan Di, I hope you know that I would never do anything to make you uncomfortable or rush you into something that you weren't ready for. I don't want to be forcing anything on you…"

Jan Di nodded. "I know. You're not. I don't want to force myself on you, either..."

Ji Hoo nearly burst out laughing at the notion that she could ever force him—him, a man, who just so happened to be madly in love with her…

Jan Di studied Ji Hoo curiously. He seemed amused by her words. What had she said that was so funny?

It was a bit amusing for Ji Hoo—the idea that she was somehow forcing her physical affection upon him. But then again, due to his intense love and desire for her, he felt that he really had no choice but to accept. His heart wouldn't allow otherwise. If that could be construed as force, then perhaps she was doing so... Such a funny thought. But whatever the case, he loved her, and he planned to take whatever she was willing to give…

Come to think of it, Jan Di had been rather forceful tonight—not that Ji Hoo was bothered by it one bit. On the contrary, he wouldn't mind if she tried to use even more force on him. The thought was a bit exciting, and Ji Hoo had to actively work to get it out of his head. With a wry smile, he shook his head at himself.

"What's so funny?" she finally asked.

"Oh, nothing," Ji Hoo chuckled and then immediately grew sincere. "You won't force me. You can't. Don't you worry yourself about that, my otter. But I do want you to be comfortable. I don't want you to regret anything, so I'll leave it to you to set the pace…"

Ji Hoo led Jan Di to the bed and sat her down beside him. He took her hands in his. "In fact, say the word and we will stop right here." Ji Hoo's inner voice—once again—weighed in on the subject, but he ignored it. "Even if this is as far as we go tonight, I am perfectly fine with it. I would be content just to hold you in my arms…"

Though, I would like to continue…

Jan Di gave him an affectionate smile. When he said such things, it only made her want to give him more of her love and affection… "Thank you, Sunbae…"

Uh oh, back to Sunbae…

"Sunbae, this has been really amazing…," Jan Di lowered her head in modesty.

He began to rub her hands lightly. "But?"

"Well, I just wanted to…experience…more…with you, but I'm not really ready for…that…you know?" she glanced away, her cheeks heating up.

Ji Hoo chuckled, and Jan Di gaped at him. In response, he brought out his brilliant smile—with its incredible melting properties—and she immediately softened like warm butter.

"That, huh? It's OK, Otter. We don't have to do that…," Ji Hoo raised a brow, "…until you're ready," he gave her a wink. Ji Hoo could never resist teasing Jan Di a bit. Her reactions were far too cute.

Jan Di pulled back. She looked quickly away, flustered and slightly annoyed. How could he tease her at a time like this?!

She considered whacking him, but then she felt him take her hands again and give them a reassuring squeeze. And it calmed her… He was so good at doing that…

Jan Di took a deep breath and released it ultra-slowly. "Sunbae, I hope you don't think that I had bad intentions, or that I was leading you on tonight…," she looked at him cautiously.

Ji Hoo responded with a tender smile, "Of course not, Otter. I would never think badly of you. The Geum Jan Di I know is completely sweet and innocent. And her intentions are always pure…," he leaned forward to give her a peck upon the lips. Jan Di smiled to herself.

"Well, except of course, when she is seeking vengeance on someone…," he added, and they both laughed.

And then the mood grew serious again. The atmosphere surrounding them was heavy, charged. And they both seemed to be considering where to go from there.

"Well…," Ji Hoo began, clearing his throat.

It seemed as though he was going to suggest stopping there, but that wasn't what Jan Di wanted. And for some reason she'd been obsessing about what he just said—suggesting that she was so sweet and innocent… Oh, she knew it was a good thing, but he just made it sound like she was some naïve child…

That—coupled with his beautiful half-nude form before her and all the other factors—made her venture further. Jan Di suddenly had a thought, a less than decent one...

Jan Di wasn't sure what possessed her—something about the way he was looking at her now mixed with the desire to show him that she wasn't just some little kid—but she leaned in, getting much closer.

She wasn't a kid; she was a woman! And she wanted to make very sure he was aware of that fact. A sly grin crossed her lips.

"My intentions aren't always as pure as you think, Yoon Ji Hoo…," Jan Di whispered in her most seductive voice—one she never knew she had in her—and she rested her hand upon his thigh.

It was Ji Hoo's turn to be flustered—a rare occasion, but nonetheless very cute. His mouth hung slightly open.

All of a sudden Jan Di launched herself at him, wrapping a hand around his neck and pulling him down to kiss him hard. Her hands fell to his chest, and she pressed her fingers in, while gently exploring his mouth.

When their lips parted, Ji Hoo released a shuddering breath. "Well, you are certainly testing my powers of self-restraint tonight…" That was something Ji Hoo was very good at—self-restraint. In fact, if it were an Olympic sport, he'd be a gold medalist by now. "Geum Jan Di…your powers are much greater than you know…," he spoke in short, ragged bursts.

And they stared at one another for a moment, breathing as if they'd just finished a marathon. A grin suddenly crossed Ji Hoo's lips. "Oh, you shouldn't play such dangerous games, Otter…"

She gave him a wry smile.

Without further warning, Ji Hoo took her face in both hands and began kissing her in an uncontrolled manner. With lips still joined, Ji Hoo swept her into his arms and was propelling her toward the bed.

Jan Di gave a little squeal of pleasant surprise as she felt herself falling back onto the bed with him. She prepared for a rough impact, but Ji Hoo slowed the descent at the last second. He gently cradled her neck as he brought her down and laid her head upon the pillow next to him.

Ji Hoo rose up on one arm, leaning over Jan Di slightly to look upon her. And she rotated onto her side to face him. He gave her a look of love set aflame before pulling her in, and she snuggled closer.

Burying his face in the crook of her neck, Ji Hoo began nuzzling and planting light kisses, covering her neck and throat. Jan Di closed her eyes and sighed pleasantly in response. He moved on to her arm. He brushed his lips along the length of her outstretched limb, all the way down to her fingertips. He then gently pressed a kiss to each one of her fingertips and her palm.

Ji Hoo's caresses were sweet and gentle—she would expect no less from him—yet at the same time, exhilarating... And somehow, he always managed to touch her in a way that exuded his love and reverence for her; she was not just some object to him…

Next, Ji Hoo ran his hand over her hip, down her thigh, and all the way to her calf—in one fluid, sensual motion. His hands continued to wander over her… And it was a sensuous rhythm he composed—one of kisses and caresses, kneading, and stimulating, met by a chorus of soft sighs, sudden gasps, and whimpers of pleasure…

When their lower bodies collided, Jan Di was met with a new sensation. She shot Ji Hoo a lock of utter shock. He gave her an apologetic look, taking a moment to compose himself. "I'm sorry, Jan Di…it's not always within my control…" He seemed embarrassed.

She shook her head, indicating that it was OK. She'd been surprised, but it wasn't an unpleasant kind of surprise, by any means. In fact, the feel of their bodies pressing together was currently sending very pleasant tingles up and down her spine.

And Jan Di felt intoxicated; she wanted to bring even more of these incredible feelings about… So, she began to move experimentally against him, and suddenly her hips had a mind of their own.

It was Ji Hoo's turn to be shocked. He paused for a split second to stare at her, and Jan Di's face flushed crimson. She glanced away in shame. Ji Hoo placed his hand upon her cheek, turning her back to him and placing a sweet kiss upon her lips.

"Tell me if you become uncomfortable, or you want to stop, OK?" he said, hoping to appease his conscience. She nodded and kissed him.

And they began to move again—in perfect harmony. Ji Hoo continued the onslaught, stimulating her with his hands and body. Jan Di held onto him, digging her fingers into his back… Her entire body was trembling now, building and building toward something amazing…

It was, once again, becoming too much for Ji Hoo… And he was fighting to maintain some semblance of control over his own body, especially when she would shut her eyes and whimper—with soft 'ahhs' and 'mms'—in response to his kisses and caresses… He really didn't know how he'd managed to hold it together for as long as he had…

OK, Yoon Ji Hoo, keep it together…

Jan Di was experiencing sensations she had never, ever felt before… Something was stirring within her… She felt warm and tingly all over, as if her whole body had fallen asleep and was just beginning to wake…

One of them would need to calm things down eventually, before the situation got out of hand… But who would do so first? Neither of them seemed to be making any move toward it. They were both clearly absorbed in a tantalizing world of desire and pleasure…

Ji Hoo massaged Jan Di's mid and lower back, applying bits of pressure here and there with his fingertips. His hand migrated to and lingered upon her hip, playing upon the outline of her curvature. And then—unable to resist—his hand descended to her behind and gave it a firm squeeze.

"Ahh!" Jan Di gasped, nearly jumping a mile.

Ji Hoo's eyes went wide, and he immediately snatched his hand back—the damn thing had a mind of its own... He prepared himself for an impending slap, but it never came.

"Sorry! Jan Di, I'm so sorry!" he exclaimed, while mentally berating himself for his error.

She took a deep breath and released it slowly…

Ji Hoo studied Jan Di, wondering if she would try to escape now. He hesitated, "Should I stop?" he asked.

She knew she probably should stop him—at least at some point soon—but she didn't really want to. It had felt so good, actually…

Jan Di swallowed hard and gave a small shake of the head, "No, it's OK…I was just…surprised, that's all…"

Ji Hoo nodded. He paused, before tentatively pulling her in close again and giving her a kiss.

Jan Di was wearing shorts—which was driving Ji Hoo crazy—and truthfully, he wanted to remove them… But then he took a closer look at her cute, goofy character bottoms, and he smiled affectionately. They were so incredibly adorable—just like her—that it was enough to tame the savage beast inside, for the moment anyway…

Although she lived with her boyfriend, Jan Di did not take advantage of the situation. She didn't parade around in cute outfits or sexy lingerie to try and entice him… Not that he would mind if she did, but that was not the type of girl his Jan Di was. And Ji Hoo was glad for that. Jan Di was not overly concerned with her appearance, either. She didn't wear pretty things or much in the way of makeup, like most girls. But that was not to say that he didn't find her beautiful.

Geum Jan Di was simply Geum Jan Di, and Ji Hoo loved that about her.

Caught up in his reverie, Ji Hoo barely realized that Jan Di had passed her leg over his, intertwining their limbs and bringing them even closer together again. That wasn't helping his resolve one bit… He clutched at her back—tugging her shirt gently, yet insistently—as if to pull her onto him.

Jan Di picked up on the silent request. She bolstered her courage and straddled his hips. Ji Hoo stared up at her with disbelieving eyes. And he thought he would surely lose it right then and there...

Ji Hoo didn't know what on earth had come over Jan Di tonight… He had thought his odds of ever being in such a situation with Jan Di to be roughly up there with winning the lottery…yet, here they were… It was downright astonishing—he again wondered if he was dreaming—but Ji Hoo decided not to question it… He would simply enjoy it while it lasted.

Ji Hoo released a heavy breath, as he stared up into her deep mahogany eyes—his own were dark and fully dilated.

"Do you still think I am sweet and innocent?" she smirked down at him.

He didn't hesitate. "Yes, I do. I'll always see you that way…"

Jan Di smiled tenderly. She had to admit it pleased her that he thought so highly of her—and that he didn't seem to think less of her now—even after such a display of uncharacteristic forwardness.

And then Ji Hoo gave her a devilish grin. "But, if you're trying to convince me otherwise, then you're welcome to try…I won't object…," he chuckled, while lying there under her—seeming fine with being completely at her mercy.

"Yoon Ji Hoo!" She slapped him on the arm.

He gave a short laugh. "And what do you think of me now?" he asked, seriously.

She looked down upon him affectionately, "The same as I always have… I think that you're…wonderful."

Ji Hoo presented her with his angelic smile and reached up for her. His expression transformed into a smoldering one. Taking a deep breath, he ventured his hands to her stomach, resting them there for a moment.

The tank top gave him more access to her—which pleased him—but truth-be-told he wanted to strip it off completely… He did not want to press his luck further tonight though. This could all horribly backfire, after all, if he wasn't careful…

Ji Hoo's fingers remained frozen at the hem of her tank, as he gazed up at her in wait for approval. She glanced away.

"Are you alright?"

She nodded.

"Am I still wonderful?" he grinned.

Jan Di smiled and nodded again, "Yes. And…you can touch me if you want…," she repeated what he'd told her that very night. She gave him a shy smile.

The wattage of Ji Hoo's smile could have lit a small city.

Oh, this girl… The things you do to me, Geum Jan Di…

"Jan Di-yah…," he uttered—a look of love was plastered upon his features—and slowly reached underneath her tank top. He felt her stomach muscles contract in response. She sucked in a small breath of surprise and pleasure at the feel of his touch upon her soft, sensitive skin.

He checked her response—meeting with no resistance—and ran his hands upward, causing the fabric to bunch slightly… This allowed Ji Hoo the pleasure of catching a glimpse of her creamy belly—soft, yet muscular and perfectly curved. To him, it was the most beautiful he'd ever seen.

Ji Hoo took a deep breath, garnered his courage, and then rested his hands upon her breasts… Jan Di tensed at first touch but then relaxed ever so slightly, releasing a pleasurable sigh as he lightly fondled them. He gave the area proper attention, though he would have liked to attend to it more fully...

Then, he moved to her silky back, running his hands up and down. His fingers lingered at the clasp of her bra—he could easily remove the garment, along with her tank top… And he was truly considering it... Ji Hoo looked into Jan Di's eyes, and he sensed that there was a good chance she might allow it, but he changed his mind.

Ji Hoo was more than pleased with how things had progressed that night, and he didn't want to push her too far… He could wait, so he instead rested his hands at the small of her back, inadvertently tracing invisible patterns into her skin underneath the tank. He felt Jan Di shiver.

And he pulled her down for a loving kiss…

Ji Hoo and Jan Di both knew the danger of flying heedlessly down this particular path… It was still so early in their relationship, after all, and they were both young and had goals…

Ji Hoo knew that he could absolutely not allow himself to get carried away with Jan Di—in case something should happen—for Jan Di had just started college, and she had a dream. She wanted to be a doctor. Ji Hoo was thrilled that Jan Di had a dream again, at last, after the first one had been shattered along with her shoulder. And he would never allow her to lose this one, especially over something like his lack of self-control…

So, Ji Hoo began to slow things down… Though he would love to experience making love to her, he could wait…until after they were married if she wished, which he hoped was in their future.

If it were up to him, he would be willing to marry her today, for there was absolutely no doubt in Ji Hoo's mind that Jan Di was the one for him—the love of his life, his soulmate…

But she was obviously not ready for that… She was still healing from her breakup, after all…

Jan Di had been enjoying herself entirely too much this night… It was almost blissfully unbearable, just recalling…and she wanted to curse those magic hands of his…

Apparently Ji Hoo had the willpower to hold back—for he had halted things—but Jan Di didn't know that she had much of the stuff. In fact, Jan Di didn't know where her willpower had disappeared to all of a sudden… And she was still afraid of taking things too far, tonight or even someday in the future… Perhaps she shouldn't have even allowed it to go as far as it already had…

Oh, it wasn't that she didn't love Ji Hoo or questioned being with him, but she had her values. She'd always believed in waiting until she was married to be intimate with a man. Yet, somehow, tonight her principles seemed to have flown right out the window. And she was only just realizing how dangerously close to crossing that line she had been.

But she just kept wanting more and more… And had he continued touching her so provocatively, she didn't know if she would have been able to hold back, despite her convictions.

Jan Di had never thought of herself as the kind of girl to behave in such a way… But it was Ji Hoo, she justified to herself. Not only was he gorgeous and amazing, but there was also the depth of her connection with him… When she thought of how much he loved her, how much he'd done for, and all they had been through together, it made her feel as though she could easily give in and give him everything… Thankfully—yet also regrettably—Ji Hoo had prevented it from going too far…

Jan Di briefly wondered what her parents would think of her behavior tonight… She could just picture the disapproval upon their faces now, were they to ever find out…

But then again, they loved Ji Hoo—and he was wealthy—so they might even be cheering her on… She groaned inwardly and immediately dismissed the mental image of her family—with a vigorous shake of the head. What a thing to think of at a time like this!

Ji Hoo stared at her in confusion, wondering what thought could have possibly just crossed her mind…

Jan Di hoped he wouldn't mind if they cooled things down a bit after this… But then again, of course he wouldn't. Once again, it was Ji Hoo… And he had been the voice of self-control and reason tonight… It was clear that Ji Hoo had been keeping things in check for the both of them, safeguarding her—yet again—even from himself.

Jan Di smiled to herself… He was such a good guy—so good, in fact—that she could probably offer herself, and he'd still turn her down… He'd probably say something like…she wasn't ready, that they could wait, or that he didn't want to force her.

But, at the same time, he seemed to know exactly how far to push things in order to drive her wild. He knew her so well—better than she—even her own body… How was it that he knew exactly what to do to make her lose her mind…in the most amazing possible way…?

After stimulating Jan Di to the point of satisfaction that night, Ji Hoo slowed things down. They both lay there, staring up at the ceiling and faintly catching their breath.

"How are you, Jan Di? Are you alright?" he asked, truly seeming concerned.

"Mmm…," she responded, in a voice warm and sensual. And she slipped her hand into his. Ji Hoo gave her hand a squeeze and then brought it to his lips to place a kiss on it.

Ji Hoo smiled satisfactorily to himself. He was relieved that he'd been able to bring Jan Di pleasure, while still restraining himself… Apparently—as he always expected—he had superhuman willpower, after all.

They sighed contentedly, as they relaxed against one another—their legs entwined like tree branches—and hugged tightly. Both knew it was not yet the time to go all the way, but they had immensely enjoyed discovering one another's bodies and learning what pleased the other. The experience had been beautiful and special, and neither would change it.

Jan Di reflected on all that had taken place that night. It was true that they had gone a bit further than she intended, but she had no regrets. That night, Jan Di had set out to do several things: to experience more with Ji Hoo, to show him exactly how she felt about him, and to pour back into him at least some of the love he'd lavished upon her over the years.

After all the agony they'd both suffered, she just wanted to show him that things were going to be different—better—from now on. And it was incredible how different she actually felt… Tonight seemed to have broken some kind of evil spell, and a wave of euphoria suddenly washed over Jan Di. Be it endorphins or whatever, she suddenly felt better than she had in a very long time...

Ji Hoo and Jan Di held each other throughout the night, and he continued to sporadically shower her with loving kisses and caresses. Jan Di's head now rested upon Ji Hoo's chest—and his head was against hers—as he ran his fingers through her hair. He placed a kiss upon the crown of her head.

And together, they fell into a deep, peaceful sleep…

The Present…

"Jan Di…what is it?" Jun Pyo demanded, after she'd once again tried to prevent him from taking her in his arms. He noticed that she was saying nothing and looked as though she was about to come completely unhinged. Why was she not jumping in with open arms?

Jan Di blinked back the tears and glanced away, "…There's…something you should know, Gu Jun Pyo…," she clenched her fists at her sides and took a deep breath.

How could she possibly say this to him?

"What?" he asked.

Ji Hoo knew that Jan Di's honesty would prevail and that she would tell Jun Pyo about their relationship. He had been lingering to ensure that she would be alright, prepared to rush in at any sign of things going awry. Ji Hoo knew he shouldn't be listening in on this conversation, but he needed to make sure that Jan Di would be OK… He stood around the corner, leaning heavily against the wall, feeling as though the weight of his burden could break it down. He screwed his eyes shut and tightened his fists at his sides.

"Gu Jun Pyo…while you were away...and you didn't remember me…," she added for emphasis, "I…started dating…Ji Hoo…" Jan Di's chest rose and fell heavily, and she stared at Jun Pyo, gauging his response.

"What?!" he raised his voice slightly and squinted at her, as if in complete disbelief. "You've been…dating?!" Had he heard her right?!

She nodded slowly, with a face made of stone.

"…What? How long?" he demanded.

"We've been together for two months now," she replied immediately.

Jun Pyo still appeared to be in a state of shock; his fists instinctively tightened until his knuckles turned white.

"Dating…?" he scoffed, "Dating? What do you mean dating?!"

"D-dating…," Jan Di stammered, "Just…dating!" she repeated in a stronger voice, "You know what dating is, Gu Jun Pyo!" she exclaimed in exasperation, not wanting to go into any further detail on the matter.

Jun Pyo did know what dating was, but it just didn't compute for him. He couldn't fathom it; he couldn't stand to think of it, that Jan Di and Ji Hoo could be together, that Jan Di could be with anyone except him!

And then Jun Pyo immediately began to obsess about what all their dating could have involved… Did they hold hands? Had she kissed him? Or what if…it was even more than that… It was unbearable to think about! Even the idea of a kiss was too much for Jun Pyo…

"Like…what, just hanging out together?" he questioned, throwing up his hands in frustration.

"Not exactly…," she looked away, as her eyes grew moist.

Jun Pyo stared at her for a moment, with reddened eyes and fists still tight at his sides. Then, he turned from her, covering the length of the room in a few quick strides. He grasped at his hair. "Dating?! You're dating him?!" Jun Pyo repeated, as if it made no sense.

"Yes!" she shouted.

"How could you do this Jan Di?!" he shouted back.

Jan Di grew quiet; she swallowed the lump in her throat. "…Well, you didn't…you were…we weren't…," she attempted to defend herself. Then, she recalled the circumstances.

Jan Di released a violent burst of air through her nose and mouth, "How could I? What do you mean? Did you expect me to wait around and be miserable the rest of my life, huh?" She grew bold and approached him, "Do you have any idea how I was feeling?! And what about you? You've been dating Yumi, right?"

Jan Di stood before Jun Pyo now—stiff and tense—and the tears began to slip out.

"Well, I…not anymore! …That doesn't matter!" Jun Pyo growled in frustration.

Ji Hoo exhaled sharply around the corner. Is she jealous? Does she still have feelings for him? Surely, she must… He buried his face in his hands.

Jan Di suddenly felt horrible for releasing her anger and frustration. Jun Pyo had not chosen to have memory loss, and he had fought so hard to regain his memories…and then he had come to find her…

It was unbelievable, the kind of hold Jun Pyo still had on her. Even despite all that had happened between Ji Hoo and her, Jan Di still felt her resolve wavering as she stood before her former love.

There was still this part of her that had deep feelings for Gu Jun Pyo etched upon her heart. She'd thought she was over it, but now he was here… And it brought so many memories rushing back, shaking her down to her core…

Jan Di hated herself for her weakness and the divide within her… And she hated herself for hurting them both… She turned away.

Jun Pyo's chest was heaving, and his entire body shook. He suddenly grabbed her by the arms, turning her and forcing her to look at him.

"So, is it serious…?" he jeered, only to hide the pain.

"Yes," she bravely said straight to his face, "It's pretty serious…" She blinked back tears that had begun to fall.

"What, did you two…kiss…?" he practically spat the word from his mouth.

Jan Di looked away again. She swallowed and gave a slight nod. Jan Di was fidgeting within Jun Pyo's grasp, and her nervousness was making him highly suspicious…

Jun Pyo was seething, and he nodded in painful understanding. "…And what else? Is there more? What else have you done together?!" he demanded.

Jan Di silently stared at him, not knowing what she could possibly say… It was certainly not something she wanted to discuss with him. She trembled lightly, despite doing her utmost to remain calm and strong. And Ji Hoo barely restrained himself from stepping in right then and there.

"Are you accusing me of something?!" Jan Di raised her voice, defensively. She knew she didn't really have much of a leg to stand on, only that her actions had occurred when they were not together. "…I don't think we should talk about this…," she added, directly.

"Why the hell not?!" Jun Pyo squeezed Jan Di's shoulders, almost to the point of pain, "If you've done nothing wrong then tell me!" he was quickly losing control.

"I have done nothing wrong!" she shouted back. So then, why did she feel guilt eroding her insides…?

Ji Hoo couldn't take it any longer, and he stepped into the room. Jan Di and Jun Pyo were facing each other down, and Jun Pyo had a hold of Jan Di's shoulders. Ji Hoo's chest began to rise and fall at the sight of Jun Pyo grasping onto Jan Di so aggressively.

"Jun Pyo, that's enough," Ji Hoo approached, holding up his hands, "Please calm down. I can explain… Let's go somewhere and talk…"

Jun Pyo glanced to Ji Hoo, with a look of betrayal and fury.

Though he wasn't looking forward to it, Ji Hoo knew he needed to talk to Jun Pyo. Jun Pyo could beat him senseless if he wanted to, but Ji Hoo needed to get him away from Jan Di right now...

Jun Pyo didn't want to hear it. He was caught up in a torrent of grief and rage, and his head was spinning violently. He wanted to simultaneously cry, scream, and kill Ji Hoo…

It was better that he leave... Jun Pyo needed to get away, to calm down and take control of his sanity, or there was no telling what he might do… He suddenly turned and left, without another word.

Ji Hoo released a heavy sigh and glanced to Jan Di. Her face was tear-stained.

Jan Di couldn't even look at Ji Hoo right now, and she immediately rushed off to her room. He knew she would be crying, and he could hear the emergency bell loud and clear. He wanted desperately to go to her and comfort her, but he could also tell that she needed space. Ji Hoo clenched his fists tight, shoved his hands into his pockets and went to his room, collapsing onto the bed.

In her room, Jan Di lay on her own bed, clutching at her pillow and softly crying. She suddenly sat up, wiped her tears with the back of her hand, and went to the dresser. She opened the top drawer and pulled out the moon-and-star necklace.

She had still been unable to part with it… It was the sort of precious possession that a person doesn't just toss away—though she'd tried to do so once—she justified to herself. The sparking one-of-a-kind trinket had been clenched within her fist when Ji Hoo rescued her from the pool. Jan Di stared hard at it, swinging it back and forth between her fingers until she was practically mesmerized, and the memories with Jun Pyo came flooding back.

She recalled the time he'd given her the necklace…

Jan Di found the necklace in his coat pocket, after he'd put it on her at the ski lodge.

"What's this?" she asked.

"Are you blind? It's a necklace."

She teased him about the necklace belonging to him.

"You dork. It's yours… And it's one-of-a kind, so if you lose it, you're dead," Jun Pyo said.

Jan Di shook her head and chuckled lightly at his callous way of expressing himself. But then, he'd grown sincere…

"This is me, the star. And you are the moon inside…," he said.

"Why are you the star and I the moon?" she asked.

"Because the moon, Geum Jan Di, can never escape the star, Gu Jun Pyo… No matter what happens, I'll never let you go…"

Jan Di smiled faintly and sniffled. "But that can't be right, Gu Jun Pyo… It's just can't be… I can't be your moon… If I was, then none of this would have happened, would it?"

Jan Di recalled how betrayed Jun Pyo had looked when she told him about her relationship with Ji Hoo, and it broke her heart anew. Even if she wanted to be with Jun Pyo again—and she wasn't even sure of that—how could she possibly go back to him, given all that had happened? How could she face him again? And how could he even look at her the same way? Gu Jun Pyo would surely never forgive her…

"Gu Jun Pyo, mianhaeyo...," she mumbled to herself.

Then, Jan Di thought of Ji Hoo. Sweet, patient, loving Ji Hoo…. What he must be going through right now!

He had waited so long for her, and he'd been the one to rescue her—as always—from her pain and despair… He'd healed her when she thought there was absolutely no cure for her sickness…

She recalled Ji Hoo finding her on the island. Somehow, he'd managed to locate her…

She asked him how he'd found her.

"I heard it…your emergency bell. I stayed up every night listening for it…"

"…How could a person be this way? You've given me so much, Sunbae…"

He held her shoulders, "But you have given me so much more…"

…

And then she recalled his confession…

He took a chain—holding a ring—from around his neck and placed it in the palm of her hand.

"Grandfather gave me this ring. It belonged to my grandmother, and she gave it to my mother…"

"Sunbae…"

"I don't know exactly when I started to feel this way, but now…I can't live without you…"

…

"I can't accept this…" she said, with a heavy heart.

"Jan Di-yah…"

"…I thought I was over it. I thought I had let him go, but I just can't seem to throw this away…," she pulled out the moon-and-star necklace, "Gu Jun Pyo is still in my heart…"

It was clear that he'd been deeply hurt, but Ji Hoo had simply told her that it was OK, tugged her sleeve, and pulled her into a hug.

Her beloved firefighter… How could she possibly break his heart again? Why did this have to be so hard? Why was the choice so unclear?

I don't know what to do…

The next morning…

Jun Pyo awoke in his bed at the Gu Mansion, after a very restless night. Last night felt like a nightmare, and he wished it had been. He'd regained his memory of Jan Di and returned to South Korea to find her, only to discover that she'd been dating his best friend. Jun Pyo's face twisted in rage once more at the thought, and he gripped one of the luxurious pillows hard, ripping it.

From Jan Di's reaction, Jun Pyo suspected that things between Jan Di and Ji Hoo had gone much too far for his liking. But any amount of affection was too far. And he couldn't stand it…

Since falling for Jan Di, Jun Pyo had wanted to possess her entirely. She belonged to him—and him alone. The tender moments Jun Pyo had witnessed between Jan Di and Ji Hoo in the past had been unbearable for him to see: Ji Hoo putting an arm around Jan Di the night of his almost wedding... Ji Hoo cutting her food for her when the four of them went on the trip to the hotel… Ji Hoo placing a lingering kiss upon her hand while she lie sleeping in his bed…

It made Jun Pyo insane, but at the same time, he'd always been begrudgingly thankful to Ji Hoo for being there for Jan Di when he could not be...

After this whole incident—during a brief moment of rationality—Jun Pyo had once again thought that perhaps Ji Hoo was more deserving of his beloved Weed… There was a time, after all—way back then—when he truly considered letting Jan Di go…

At that time, Jun Pyo had been attempting to go along with that sham of a wedding… And in the process, he recalled developing a slight affection for the Monkey Girl. They were a bit similar—even though she was crazy—and they came from similar backgrounds. She understood him… And in her own weird way, she could be oddly…cute…on some rare occasions...

Back then, Jun Pyo had almost…almost…convinced himself that he could grow to love the monkey, or at least tolerate her and enjoy her company… She could have been a companion to him—he supposed—as a last resort. Though he wouldn't have been with the love of his life, perhaps he could have been somewhat…content…if not mildly happy, with Ha Jae Kyung…

But Jun Pyo had long since realized that he was not capable of giving up Jan Di… He was far too stingy when it came to her. But that was what love did to a person, wasn't it?

Jun Pyo never understood Ji Hoo's side of it…how he could claim to love her, yet let her go. Had Jun Pyo been in that position, he never could have done so... He believed that if you truly love someone, you hold on tight to them and never, ever let go… And Jun Pyo couldn't let Jan Di go, not now, not ever…

That same morning…

Ji Hoo went to check on Jan Di in her room. He lightly rapped at the door and called for her, but she was already gone. She must have left very early, for it was only just 7 AM now… He had not even heard her get up… He had no idea where she could have gone, and he was concerned.

Ji Hoo attempted calling and then texting her, but there was no response. When he stopped to think about it, he supposed that she could be working… But he couldn't seem to recall her schedule for this week. Why was he blanking on it all of a sudden? And she would often answer at work if she wasn't with a customer… The more likely explanation was that she was avoiding him...

He could call Chu Ga Eul, he supposed, or go and look for her. Perhaps he could stop by her work… But he assumed she needed space, and he didn't want to push her. He decided to bide his time for a little while longer, despite it being pure torment…

Ji Hoo also felt the need to explain and work things out with Jun Pyo… Although it was likely a pointless endeavor—Jun Pyo probably wouldn't even speak to him—he needed to at least try… Ji Hoo was sure he would eventually convince Jun Pyo to talk to him, but he didn't look forward to the conversation forthcoming, not at all.

Ji Hoo released a heavy exhale and pulled out his phone, deciding to just get it over with. He dialed Jun Pyo's number and waited. It went straight to voicemail, so Ji Hoo left a brief message indicating that he needed to talk to him. Then, he went to his room, slumped into his chair, and buried his face in his hands.

What should I do now? Ji Hoo lamented.

That early evening…

Ji Hoo had been frantic about locating Jan Di all day. He'd finally called Ga Eul, who had informed him that she was there, at work. Ji Hoo felt better, knowing where she was. Ga Eul offered to let Ji Hoo speak with Jan Di, but he'd simply said he would talk to her later. Ga Eul told Ji Hoo that Jan Di would be off in two hours.

Ji Hoo waited anxiously for Jan Di to return, though he wasn't exactly looking forward to the conversation with her, either. In fact, he was terrified of what she might have to say… And he still needed to speak with Jun Pyo. Ji Hoo was not sure which conversation he dreaded more…

Ji Hoo had spent the entire day wrestling with his thoughts and wracking his mind over what to do about the situation. But then again, there wasn't much he could really do. It wasn't in his hands…

Jan Di returned home three hours later. She was late, and it had made Ji Hoo even more restless… He hated when she was home late. It always made him worry, but now—given the situation—it had put him even more on edge.

Jan Di walked in, looking pale and exhausted. Ji Hoo stood when he saw her. "Jan Di…"

"Hello, Sunbae," she said in a lifeless tone of voice.

"How was work?" he asked, stuffing his hands into his pockets.

"Fine… I'm sorry I didn't call you back…," she said, glancing away.

"It's OK… I was just…checking in anyway…," he cleared his throat.

Jan Di nodded.

There was a pregnant pause before Jan Di spoke again. "Sunbae, could we talk?"

Ji Hoo suddenly grew very anxious. He exhaled and nodded, beckoning her to the couch. Jan Di sat down next to him, and she began to smooth out her pant leg. Ji Hoo watched as she took a rather long period of time to do so.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

She released a short burst of air. It was not such an easy question. "Oh, Sunbae, I guess so..."

"Sunbae again, huh?" he gave a short laugh, attempting to lighten the mood.

She didn't crack a smile. "Sorry. Ji Hoo."

Jan Di stared down at her hands for a long time before turning to him. Her lips parted, but nothing came out. And then she opened her mouth again to speak. "Aish! Why can't I seem to speak properly right now?!"

Ji Hoo smiled faintly.

"Did you speak to Jun Pyo?" he asked.

"No. You?" she turned slightly toward him.

"No." She paused for a long moment. "This isn't fair, you know…," she finally uttered.

Ji Hoo squeezed his hands together. "I know, Jan Di-yah." Believe me, I know…

"I mean…why does he all of a sudden remember me now? Why does he come back now? Why now? Why not…before…?" Jan Di released an exasperated groan. Ji Hoo nodded in agreement. It would have been a bit easier that way…perhaps…

"I was finally getting over him…and now…suddenly he's here…" Jan Di slapped her hands against her pant legs. It was like a dead man returning to life…

Ji Hoo was terrified to ask, but he had to. "What will you do?"

Jan Di released a heavy sigh. "Well, I'll have to talk to him, I guess. If he'll talk to me, that is…"

Ji Hoo nodded. "What will you say?"

She sighed, "I'm not exactly sure…but it doesn't really matter… Nothing's really changed…" Now that Jun Pyo was back and remembered her, things were a bit different. It had stirred and shaken her, but when she thought about it, nothing had really changed. She had loving feelings for Jun Pyo, yes—and she would always love him—but she was in love with Ji Hoo now…

"What do you mean?" Ji Hoo asked, incredulous, "How could nothing have changed?"

She wanted to reassure Ji Hoo, to let him know how much she loved him and how much she was going to try to work things out. "Well, I can't say that his remembering me and coming back didn't shake me up, and I feel horrible about it, but I've let him go…"

"It can't be that simple…," Ji Hoo muttered, hanging his head and wringing his hands lightly.

"Why not? I've grieved for him—a lot—and now I've moved on."

"I don't know if I can believe that, Jan Di," he looked up at her, "Even if you believe it… I saw how deep your love for Jun Pyo was…is…firsthand…what you were willing to go through to be with him… How could you just let go of such powerful feelings?"

Jan Di was stunned. She absolutely hated to admit it, but perhaps Ji Hoo had a point. What she said hadn't been a lie—not exactly. She wanted to be over Jun Pyo… She wanted to move on… But she wasn't quite there yet, at least not completely. But she was getting there. She had been nearly there, and then he came back…

Jan Di did love Ji Hoo with all her heart... But could she truly be with him when feelings for Jun Pyo still lingered?

"Ji Hoo—I…"

Ji Hoo finally looked at Jan Di. Tears had begun to form and drizzled down her cheeks, like tiny beads of morning dew upon greenery. He reached over to wipe them away. "Please don't cry, Otter. Or I will, too," he said gently.

And suddenly Jan Di was clinging to Ji Hoo's shirt, twisting it between her fingers. She choked back a sob. "Ji…Ji Hoo…," she muttered, her voice muffled by his shirt. He began to rub her back in a comforting manner. His touch was so different from two nights prior, though.

"Shh, it's OK…," he soothed, yet he felt as though he was dying inside...

Jan Di sniffled and attempted to control the tears, but it was futile. "…What should I do, Ji Hoo?" she cried helplessly.

"I can't make that decision for you, Jan Di. But I do think I know what you're going to do…," he held her tighter and gave a long pause. "…You're going to go back to Jun Pyo…that's what you're going to do…," he whispered.

Jan Di pulled back. She blinked a few times and then stared at Ji Hoo, dumbfounded.

He could sense that she was waiting for some kind of explanation. "He's your true love, right? And now he's back. So, the answer is simple…" Ji Hoo removed her hands; he stood and turned from her, fighting back tears of his own.

"Ji Hoo…," she mumbled. More tears began to stream down. "But…you don't under—"

He cut her off. "It's OK, Jan Di… You don't have to say anything," he spoke softly, still not looking at her.

Ji Hoo began to walk off but then suddenly stopped. "You know, Jan Di… It just seems like there was always something preventing us from being together… First, I was hung up on Seo Hyun and went to Paris, and you got close to Jun Pyo. And then we had that date after the competitions, but that didn't work out because I'd already lost you… And then there was Macau…and Jun Pyo's engagement… Then, I thought…maybe there was a chance for us, but it never happened… But that was my fault, not yours. I was too afraid to speak up…well, except that one time…at the airport... Oh, and there was this time I tried to tell you I loved you, but you were sleeping…," Ji Hoo gave a woeful laugh. "Honestly, when I think of all the times I should have said or done something to show you how I felt…I kick myself. And when I finally did work up the courage to express my feelings, it was too late."

Ji Hoo released his breath. "And now there's this time… We were finally together, and Jun Pyo returns…" Ji Hoo scoffed. "Honestly, it really feels like fate was against us all along, Jan Di. I guess it was just a dream for a little while… But we got so close this time, Jan Di… I almost wish…," he paused, for it pained him to say it, "…that I didn't get a glimpse of what could have been…"

But that wasn't really true, for—despite the pain—Ji Hoo knew that he would always treasure every precious moment spent with Jan Di. He didn't regret a single one of them, no matter how painful the outcome.

"Ji Hoo…," she uttered miserably.

"You and me, Otter, I guess...we were just never meant to be…"

Ji Hoo hadn't been able to look at Jan Di during his entire sorrowful speech, for he was far too emotional—on the inside and on the outside, as well… His well-guarded tears had begun to escape, and he didn't want to show them to her.

He could hear that she was beginning to cry, too, and that struck him hard. He felt his insides twisting into a hard knot—one practically impossible to disentangle. He hadn't meant to hurt her. He was only speaking the blunt truth, from his perspective. And he wanted to comfort her, but he just couldn't right now…

"Ji Hoo, I'm so…so…," her voice trembled.

He wiped away a few of his tears, out of her sight.

"Sorry?" he turned slightly to look at her. Her face was already stained by the path her tears had taken. "I know, Jan Di. And it's OK…," he tried to put on a smile, but he felt as though his heart was being crushed into dust.

Unable to take it any longer, Ji Hoo turned to walk away, "Goodnight, Otter," he said before heading off to his room.

Jan Di's lips parted, and she opened her mouth to speak but nothing came out. "…Ji Hoo, wait!" she finally called out for him, but he was already gone.

Jan Di didn't know what to feel right now. She was experiencing a menagerie of different emotions. Amongst them were: confusion, desperation, frustration, and most prominently…anger. He hadn't even let her speak! He hadn't even let her explain or tell him how she was feeling! He just assumed that she'd already made up her mind and that she was going to leave him…

A string of frustrated thoughts rampaged through Jan Di's head. How could he say what he did? Why was he willing to just give up like that? Granted, he had waited for her for so long and even fought for her before—as he pointed out—in Macau and after the pool party. But why was he willing to just step aside all of a sudden? Didn't he say that he loved her?

She should go storm in there right now and tell him off, she thought… But she decided not to do that. He was hurting, too, after all... And she should have just spoken up. Why didn't she just say it?!

Long after Ji Hoo left the room, Jan Di sat there in stunned silence, all alone—with only her merciless, conflicting thoughts. And then hot, salty tears trickled down her cheeks to her lips. And Jan Di began to sob uncontrollably, gasping for air and shaking violently.

A few days passed, and Jun Pyo had finally agreed to meet with Ji Hoo—with a little encouragement from Woo Bin and Yi Jeong. Yi Jeong had even tried to help smooth things over all the way from Sweden. Ji Hoo was grateful, and he considered it to be a relatively short period of time for Jun Pyo to calm down.

During that time, Ji Hoo had been pondering how to handle the situation, and he and Jan Di had barely spoken… He regretted it, but the wound was just too fresh right now…

Ji Hoo had been thinking a lot of Jan Di during the past few days, not that this was unusual for him. But his thoughts were much more discordant and confusing lately... They were not just the typical love-struck feelings he always had when he thought of her.

Being with Jan Di had felt so amazingly good… And then Jun Pyo came back, and the guilt began tearing apart his insides. And then, Ji Hoo felt angry. He had absolutely no reason to feel guilty. They weren't together, and Jun Pyo didn't even remember Jan Di—or even want anything to do with her. He had done nothing wrong! But as much as he tried to tell himself that, Ji Hoo still couldn't help feeling he'd betrayed his best friend.

And what was worse, he felt that he'd irrevocably damaged her relationship with Jun Pyo. Ji Hoo just knew that Jun Pyo would never accept it… Jun Pyo would never—in a million years—forgive him for what he'd done. And he might not even forgive her… And Jan Di would only suffer even more… It was infuriating for Ji hoo.

Ji Hoo had been over and over it in his head. He didn't know for sure what the best thing to do was, but all he knew was that he needed to protect Jan Di. So, he decided to lie to Jun Pyo. He decided to tell Jun Pyo that Jan Di had just been caught off-guard, flustered, and that absolutely nothing had happened between them… It was for the best, he told himself… The pathetic platitude left a terrible aftertaste, though… And with that sickening feeling, Ji Hoo left to once again release the woman he loved to his best friend.

Jun Pyo and Ji Hoo met up at the old F4 clubhouse. Jun Pyo was throwing darts at the dartboard when Ji Hoo arrived. "Just like old times…," Ji Hoo commented. Jun Pyo shot him a cold glance, and Ji Hoo wondered if Jun Pyo was imagining his face as the target…

"What did you want to talk about?" Jun Pyo muttered.

"I think you know the answer to that, Jun Pyo. I wanted to talk about Geum Jan Di…"

Jun Pyo shot off a dart at an accelerated speed, and it impaled dead center. "What about her?"

Ji Hoo took a seat on the couch and mentally prepared himself to give the speech he'd formulated. But it got stuck in his throat. He couldn't say it. He couldn't do it. He couldn't let her go, not this time.

Instead, Ji Hoo decided to go off the cuff. He would speak the truth, straight from his heart.

"Jun Pyo, I'm sorry."

Jun Pyo tightened his mouth and threw another dart.

Ji Hoo clenched his own jaw. "I'm sorry that I began a relationship with Jan Di…" Even though he couldn't honestly say he was sorry for it… "But you have to understand that I didn't think you were ever going to remember her. I didn't think there was any chance for the two of you to get back together… And I love her…"

Jun Pyo stopped mid-throw and turned to silently glare at Ji Hoo over his shoulder.

Ji Hoo released a sharp exhale, "I love her so much, Jun Pyo…" he wrung his hands lightly. "There were so many times I tried to forget about her, but I couldn't… I know I was a terrible friend to you, but I just…couldn't stop myself. I know that's no excuse…"

Jun Pyo scoffed. "So, what is this thing between you two?" he turned to look at Ji Hoo.

"Ah, well we've just been dating for a couple months."

"She said it was serious…"

Ji Hoo nodded and stared down at his hands, "It is."

Jun Pyo stubbornly demanded to know what had happened between them, and Ji Hoo did his best to divert the conversation.

"Tell me!" Jun Pyo insisted.

"Why, Jun Pyo?!" Ji Hoo raised his voice, "…It won't do you any good for you to know what has happened between Jan Di and I," he added more softly.

This only served to infuriate Jun Pyo. "Did you sleep with her, you bastard?!" Jun Pyo approached Ji Hoo aggressively.

"No! Of course not…," Ji Hoo responded immediately. At least not in the way you are thinking, Jun Pyo… "…We've only been dating a couple months, and she's only 20. Plus, I wouldn't jeopardize her future like that," he finished in a lower, calmer voice.

"Good," he snarled, "You better not have…" The admission should have made Jun Pyo feel a bit better, but it didn't, really... He was still seething, and it ached inside.

Ji Hoo released a heavy sigh. Jun Pyo would have killed him if he'd slept with Jan Di. But then again, he'd probably want to kill him if he found out about the things they had done… Ji Hoo just hoped Jun Pyo wouldn't press for more information.

There was a tense silence before Jun Pyo spoke again. "How could you do this, Ji Hoo?!" Jun Pyo began rifling off darts again. Ji Hoo kept his distance.

"Jun Pyo, we weren't trying to hurt you…"

"We?" Jun Pyo felt his blood boil at the lumping of them as an item.

Ji Hoo sighed and squeezed his hands together. "You said that if it couldn't be you, then it had to be me…"

Jun Pyo had run out of darts now. He was momentarily silent, his chest heaving.

"I was simply fulfilling that promise to you...," Ji Hoo added. It was technically true—in a way—but a bit of a weak excuse, he thought. And of course, that wasn't really why…

"The hell you were! You just wanted her for yourself!"

Ji Hoo suddenly lost his carefully guarded control. "Of course I wanted her for myself! I've dreamed of Jan Di being my own for years now! Each time I saw her with you it felt like my heart was being ripped out of my chest!" Ji Hoo grunted in frustration, "What do you expect?! I'm in love with her, just as much as you are! I could argue even more!" It was a stupid statement, Ji Hoo realized. It wasn't a contest, after all, and he was only further provoking Jun Pyo.

"…But I let go of that, for you…," Ji Hoo muttered—softer this time—while he actively worked to calm his heaving chest and ragged breathing.

Jun Pyo stared at him with red, moistened eyes… And for a moment, neither said a word.

"Hit me," Ji Hoo finally said. He wasn't exactly sure what he hoped to accomplish. Perhaps it would ease the tension… Perhaps Jun Pyo could work out some frustration and they could begin to move past it…

"What?" Jun Pyo questioned, his fists remained clenched and ready at his sides.

"Hit me," Ji Hoo repeated, "I need to take a hit from you." Ji Hoo recalled Jun Pyo saying the same to him the night before his almost wedding to Ha Jae Kyung.

"Do it. I deserve it, believe me…" Ji Hoo stood there, awaiting his punishment.

Jun Pyo hesitated for only a split second before storming up to Ji Hoo. He reared back and delivered a powerful blow to Ji Hoo's face, dropping him to one knee. Ji Hoo tasted blood, and he pressed two fingers to his cut lip.

"Thanks," Ji Hoo muttered, "I needed that..."

Jun Pyo stood—silent and menacing—over Ji Hoo, his chest rising and falling weightily.

Ji Hoo scoffed lightly. "I was hoping that would make both of us feel a bit better, but I don't really…do you?"

Jun Pyo was still glaring down at Ji Hoo. But then, he suddenly stuck out his hand to help him up. Ji Hoo stared at Jun Pyo in disbelief and took his hand.

"Thanks," Ji Hoo gave a heavy exhale, "…Look, I don't want to fight you, Jun Pyo. I don't want to be your enemy. You're my best friend, and I hope that we can someday get past this… But I can't give up Geum Jan Di… I'm sorry, but I just can't do it this time…"

Jun Pyo clenched his jaw.

"But the fact of the matter is that it's not up to either of us. There's only one person who can settle this whole thing," Ji Hoo said.

…

The next day…

Jan Di wasn't home yet—though she should have been by now—and Ji Hoo was beginning to worry. She'd simply told him that she was going to meet Jun Pyo because she needed to speak with him, so he assumed that's where she was. It was foolish and useless to be this way, Ji Hoo knew, but he had to admit that he was anxious and even a bit…jealous… And he wondered what she was going to say to him…

Ji Hoo had managed to drive himself insane during the three hours Jan Di was gone, and he'd convinced himself that she was going to make amends with Jun Pyo. He could just see them getting back together in his head, and it was making him crazy... Ji Hoo was currently pacing around the house like a lunatic…

Ji Hoo finally took a seat and picked up the novel he'd been reading, just prior to Jan Di entering the house. He practically leaped from his chair but then immediately sat back down and nonchalantly picked up his book, crossing one leg over the other.

"Hey…," she said when she saw him.

Ji Hoo glanced up from pretending to read, "Oh, hey," he said mechanically.

After a long pause, "So, I went to see Jun Pyo…," she began tentatively.

Ji Hoo nodded, "Oh, right," and he tightened his jaw. He was suddenly struck by an overwhelming sense of dread.

Jan Di opened her mouth to speak again, but he cut her off. "Jan Di, I'm sorry, but can we talk about it tomorrow? I'm…very tired," he said, hoping to postpone the inevitable. He couldn't take hearing the words that he was sure she was about to say. He couldn't take hearing that she was going back to Jun Pyo…

"Well…OK…," she mumbled.

"Thanks," Ji Hoo set down his book and rose, heading off toward his room with barely a glance to her.

Jan Di watched Ji Hoo walking off, and she released a frustrated sigh. "Yoon Ji Hoo, you STOP…RIGHT…THERE!"

The volume and tone of her voice made him do just that. He turned to look at her curiously, his brow wrinkled.

Jan Di had balled up her fists, and she charged over to him. She stood before him—mouth tight and eyes ablaze. He briefly wondered if she was also going to hit him.

"You're not even going to hear what I have to say about my talk with Jun Pyo?" she grumbled.

"Jan Di…," Ji Hoo released a heavy sigh and his brutal honesty spouted out, "…I'm not really in the mood to hear about that right now, if you don't mind… I'm sorry, but I just can't deal with hearing about you getting back together with Jun Pyo right now… I'm happy for you and all…," he gave a faint eye roll, "…and you can tell me the whole story in the morning. But for now, good night."

Jan Di groaned in exasperation. She shoved Ji Hoo's shoulder hard. "Aish, you idiot," she muttered.

Ji Hoo flinched, "What?" So now she was going to add insult to his injury?

Jan Di scoffed. "I didn't get back together with Gu Jun Pyo, you babo!"

"What?" he blinked several times. Did he hear her right?

"I said, I didn't get back together with Jun Pyo!"

"You…didn't…but…why not?"

What a stupid question, she thought. "Because I'm in love with YOU, you jerk!" Jan Di shouted.

Ji Hoo's lips parted, and a broad smile slowly formed upon his face, as her words finally sank in. He was deliriously happy, but he couldn't resist teasing her a bit. "Those are the most beautiful words I've ever heard, Jan Di-yah…you know, aside from the jerk part…"

Jan Di gave a short laugh. Ji Hoo grinned at her and placed his hands upon her arms.

Ji Hoo held Jan Di's arms, tenderly caressing them. "Jan Di, that makes me so happy to hear you say that; you have no idea…, but what about Jun Pyo? He's the man you've always wanted…"

"I thought he was, and he used to be…but that's not how I feel anymore… I told him how I feel about you," she glanced down, still feeling sorrowful for Jun Pyo.

Ji Hoo took a moment to let the dust settle.

"Why are you questioning this?" Jan Di asked.

"Because I just want you to be happy..."

"Babo…," she muttered. Ji Hoo gave her a shocked look. Once again, she was calling him names… But then again, he'd also accused her of being a fool—when she failed to realize his motivation for challenging Jun Pyo after the incident in New Caledonia.

Jan Di shook her head at him, but then she smiled. "I am, Ji Hoo-yah. I am happy, with you… These last few months have been the happiest I've ever known…happier than when I was with Jun Pyo, even at our best of times… When I realized that, then I knew…that you were the one I wanted to be with…and…," she paused and looked deep into his eyes, "…that I can't possibly live without you…"

They gazed into one another's eyes lovingly.

And it was a true. Jan Di had known it for a long time, that she needed Ji Hoo in her life…and that she was incomplete without him, but she hadn't realized exactly why until recently. But now she knew—beyond a shadow of a doubt—that Ji Hoo was the one who she truly belonged with.

Her love for Jun Pyo had been powerful but also debilitating. Her love for Ji Hoo was freeing and empowering. With Ji Hoo, it was different in every possible way. Her love for him made her feel good, stronger—not miserable and weak.

Ji Hoo revealed his brilliant smile and gave her sleeve a playful tug, bringing her closer. He leaned in and rested his forehead against hers, his lips hovering mere inches away from hers.

"Saranghae, Geum Jan Di…," he whispered.

"Saranghae, Yoon Ji Hoo…"

They exchanged a blissful look, and Ji Hoo nuzzled noses with her. Then, Jan Di flashed him a playful grin, just before she grabbed him by the collar. With fresh tears of happiness in her eyes, she pulled him in all the way, and they shared a long, loving kiss…one of many to come… It was a new beginning, and they both knew that it was the beginning of something important—it was the beginning of the rest of their lives…

The following day…

With an aching heart, Jun Pyo went to the airport with Secretary Jung to leave for New York City. He and Jan Di had broken up, so he was returning to the States for business. On top of his recent heartbreak, Jun Pyo was very annoyed, for his personal plane had mechanical problems and he was being forced to fly a commercial airline.

Jun Pyo slumped into one of the plastic chairs at his gate, waiting for the airline attendant to call for the First Class passengers to board.

"Sir, can I get you anything?" Secretary Jung asked.

"No," Jun Pyo said, and he buried his face in his hands. It was taking every ounce of his strength to refrain from breaking down this very second…

How would he ever be able to let go of Geum Jan Di? Jun Pyo lamented. Chances were very good that he would never be able to do so… The whole situation seemed incredibly unfair to Jun Pyo, and the pain was searing and raw… He couldn't imagine anything more painful than this…

But as unbelievable as it might seem to others, he almost had a sense of peace about it. He was at peace knowing that Jan Di and Ji Hoo were happy, and that Ji Hoo would take care of her…

Jun Pyo thought of his recent parting with Jan Di. She'd met up with him, and they'd had a long talk. She had explained her side of things and expressed her feelings… She had been very honest and extremely apologetic…

…

...

"Jun Pyo, I loved you… I loved you so much, but…I didn't think you would ever remember me… I tried to make you remember. I tried everything I could think of! …I even thought that we could just start over, but you…didn't want anything to do with me…," she glanced downward, dejected, "So, I told myself that it was just the end of it…that it was just as far as Geum Jan Di and Gu Jun Pyo's relationship could go…"

Her eyes were moist with tears.

"I had to move on, Jun Pyo… I'm so sorry, but I just had to! Or, I would have fallen apart… No, I did… I did fall apart! But Ji Hoo put me back together… Ji Hoo, he…helped me…he saved me from it…"

Jun Pyo's chest rose and fell heavily, and he fought back stinging tears of his own. Ji Hoo saved her, she'd said… He was always doing that, wasn't he…?

Jan Di took a deep breath. "…I'm happy, Jun Pyo… We're…happy…Ji Hoo and I…"

Jun Pyo felt his stomach drop out, and he looked away.

"My love for you, Jun Pyo…," she continued, "…it was so powerful…but it wasn't good for me… It wasn't your fault, though. We were just never right for each other, even though we wanted to be…"

Jun Pyo was silent.

"I wanted to be the moon to your star, Jun Pyo…but it just wasn't meant to be… I'm so sorry, Gu Jun Pyo," Jan Di mourned. Suddenly Jun Pyo reached for her and pulled her into a rough embrace.

"I'll never forget you, Gu Jun Pyo, as long as I live…," she muttered against his chest. Jun Pyo tightened his jaw and embraced her tighter. He didn't want to let her go, ever…

And they held each other… He wasn't sure how long they remained in each other's embrace, but it was warm and comforting, albeit heartbreaking, and he wished they could have stayed like that forever…

"I'll never forget you either, Ms. Laundry…" And Jan Di chuckled and squeezed him tighter.

"You're a great man, Gu Jun Pyo," he proclaimed. Jun Pyo reminded himself of how forgiving he'd been and of the great sacrifice he'd made.

Jun Pyo released a heavy exhale and glanced up in time to see a woman. Across the terminal and heading his way, he saw a very familiar-looking young woman. Her dark hair was cut into a short bob; she was dressed stylishly, and she wore a brown leather shoulder bag strung over her shoulder. He glanced over curiously, squinting to verify her identify.

As she came in range, his eyes went wide, "Monkey?!" he uttered aloud.

***The End?***

A/N: Thoughts? Hope the romance wasn't too excessive... Any interest in an epilogue or alternate ending with Jun Pyo ending up with Jan Di? Thanks everyone!