A/N: Either you're in luck or you have to endure a little while longer—however you look at it—because I decided to add another chapter. Most of you are probably not surprised. I fully intended to finish, but I got some more ideas that I was excited about, so I decided to extend it. Sorry for the wait, and I hope you will enjoy!

P.S. Thank you, akuryo, for allowing me to bounce ideas off you.

Warning! I put a small lemon-lime in here, so if you are under 18 or such content makes you uncomfortable then please don't read or skip that part. This is my first attempt at writing this, so don't expect much and go easy on me, haha. Hopefully it turned out OK. It's probably fairly tame by most standards. But anyway, you've been warned.

Guest Reviews:

ghost: I hope you enjoy this. I'm not sure about a sequel, but we'll see after I finish the current ones.

Guest: I fully intended to finish this up, making it a long chapter, but I did get more ideas, so yes I'll be continuing it for another. This was meant to be a short story, but it really took off on me and got much longer than expected. So, I keep trying to finish up, lol.

Jjan: A toast used with people your age

Gunbae: An older generation toast

Marry Me Part II

Ji Hoo took a deep breath, "...Geum Jan Di, my beloved otter, will you marry me?"

In that moment, Jan Di was stunned silent. She knew that she shouldn't be; it wasn't like it was a shock that he would ask her. After all, they had been together for over 5 years. But to hear him say the actual words nearly took her breath away.

He was waiting for her answer, but Jan Di felt as though her mouth had filled with cotton. Her lips parted twice before getting anything out. "…Ji Hoo-yah…," she finally uttered.

Ji Hoo was still kneeling before her—holding his treasured family heirloom out to her and looking up with loving, hope-filled eyes.

Jan Di squeezed her knees harder, as she gazed down upon her beloved firefighter. And she felt as though her heart would burst at any moment…

Once she managed to get her emotions under control—after several extra-long minutes—Jan Di realized that she still hadn't given him an answer. Fighting back tears of happiness, she finally choked out, "Yes!"

And his smile could have lit the entire world.

Ji Hoo removed the ring from its compartment and slid it onto her ring finger. To his relief, it fit just right.

Jan Di leaned forward and threw her arms around Ji Hoo's neck. He embraced her tightly and rose to his feet, lifting her off the bench in the process. He swung her around in the air as if he never wanted to put her down.

After a prolonged embrace—amidst smiles, laughter, and happy tears—Ji Hoo placed Jan Di back on solid ground. Still holding her by the waist, he said her name and leaned in to press his lips softly to hers. Both closed their eyes upon contact, and they shared a warm, loving kiss.

Ji Hoo and Jan Di enjoyed their special moment for as long as they could. Although both wanted to continue loving each other properly—and basking in the joy of their newfound promise to one another—they knew that their friends and family were waiting for them.

As they prepared to head back, Ji Hoo stopped. "Oh, one more thing," he said, almost as an afterthought. And he dipped down behind the bench to bring out a potted flower. Jan Di recognized it right away as the same flower he'd offered her in New Caledonia—when he was heartbroken over Seo Hyun.

He held it out to her. "The Lily of the Valley. You remember the meaning of this flower, right?"

Jan Di smiled brightly and nodded. "It brings everlasting happiness, right?"

"That's right. And that is why you only give it to your true love." With this statement, he presented it to her.

Jan Di grinned widely and took the pot with both hands, hugging it against her chest and gazing down upon its white bell-shaped blossoms. She looked up at him, her eyes shimmery with love and appreciation. And they exchanged an adoring look before Ji Hoo wrapped his arm around her. "Shall we go back?"

Jan Di nodded, and they walked off together across the Shinwha campus…

For a time, there was comfortable silence between them. And they simply enjoying walking together as a newly engaged couple. A gentle breeze blew as they strolled along, intermittently meeting each other's eyes and smiling mushily.

Ji Hoo and Jan Di returned to their home to meet up with the others for Jan Di's graduation party. Ji Hoo had planned the party, mainly with Chu Ga Eul. She had a flair for decorating, so she managed most of that, and she'd turned his neutral, traditional home into a colorful party space. To him, it looked almost like a child's birthday party—with a bit more sophistication—but he knew Jan Di would love it. And that was the most important thing to him. Most of the parties Ji Hoo had been to were lavish, sophisticated—a bit stuffy, actually—but Ga Eul had made Jan Di's party look fun and inviting.

Ji Hoo was thankful for all of Ga Eul's help since parties weren't his strong suit. It wasn't like he hadn't been to many a party—as a member of F4—but he was definitely not the planner of such events.

In fact, Ji Hoo liked to keep a low-profile at the F4 blowouts. So, he usually hung back, while Yi Jeong and Woo Bin made their rounds and Jun Pyo did his own obligatory mingling.

Speaking of the rest of F4, they had attempted to get their hands into the party planning—even Jun Pyo wanted a say in it. It wasn't surprising to Ji Hoo, for they all loved Jan Di a great deal, but their ideas were, as expected, grandiose. Although Ji Hoo appreciated their input, he shot down most of their ideas because he knew Jan Di. He knew she would want simple and intimate. And Ga Eul seemed to have pulled that off to perfection.

When the couple arrived at the Yoon home, Jan Di was met with shouts of 'Surprise!' and 'Congratulations!' from her closest friends and family, as well as a large banner with 'Chuka he, Jan Di!' painted on it.

Although she had long since suspected something—and Ji Hoo's statement after the graduation confirmed it—Jan Di was still momentarily caught by surprise when everyone jumped out at her.

Jan Di thought that Ga Eul was behind it and that Ji Hoo had just made it happen. Her boyfriend wasn't exactly a fan of parties, after all. But Ga Eul informed Jan Di that most of the credit was due Ji Hoo Sunbae. Ji Hoo argued back that it was mostly Ga Eul's doing and described the painstaking process she went through in order to make the place party-ready. Then, Ga Eul came back with how Ji Hoo had helped her decorate and—fearing for her safety—hung the hard-to-reach decorations.

As Yi Jeong observed the interaction between his girlfriend and good friend, he turned a suspicious eye on Ji Hoo. And then he offhandedly commented that Ji Hoo was alone for hours with his girlfriend. "Are you sure nothing happened?" the ex-Casanova teased.

Ji Hoo shook his head, the corner of his mouth twitching into a half-smile.

And Ga Eul gaped. "That's ridiculous, Yi Jeong-ah," she chastised, placing her hands on her hips in mock anger. She glanced over at Ji Hoo. "No offense intended, Ji Hoo Sunbae."

Ji Hoo flashed a good-natured smile. "None taken."

Yi Jeong simply chuckled in response. Then, he sauntered over to Ga Eul and caught her around the waist from behind. Winding his arms tighter around her small waist, he pulled her back against his chest.

With a small gasp, Ga Eul uttered, "Yi Jeong-ah…"

She felt herself flushing from their sudden unexpected proximity—and the fact that it was on display for all their friends. Not that it was the first time they'd shared a romantic moment in public…

Ji Hoo and Jan Di took that as their cue to give the two a little privacy, so they stepped away from the lovers and engaged in some idle conversation.

Having now a small semblance of isolation, Ga Eul allowed Yi Jeong to keep his arms around her. He mischievously grinned, as his lips grazed her ear and he whispered, "I just find it hard to believe that any man could resist the temptation of being all alone with you…"

Ga Eul fought her rapidly growing smile and spun around within his arms. She slipped her arms around his waist, and he in turn wrapped his arms around her back. She tilted her chin and gazed up at him with a playfully smug expression, "I see that your Casanova side is still coming out now and again…"

Pretending to be hurt by her statement, Yi Jeong began to pull away. With a giggle, Ga Eul held onto him tighter and went up on her tiptoes to press a kiss into his dimpled chin. Yi Jeong flashed his flawless smile and bent to give her a peck on the nose. He nuzzled noses with her, and the two exchanged a few soft kisses before rejoining the group.

At the party, there was food and drink—both alcoholic and non. Ji Hoo had managed the ordering of the food, but Yi Jeong and Woo Bin had insisted upon having some fancy French appetizers, or amuse-bouche, from a new place they'd recently fallen in love with.

When a waiter brought a tray of hors d' oeuvres around and Jan Di hesitated, Woo Bin strolled up, took the appetizer, and commanded that Jan Di open her mouth. She glanced to Ji Hoo before reluctantly opening her mouth, and Woo Bin popped the morsel in. Jan Di chewed slowly, putting on a fake smile and giving a small 'mm,' of approval.

Once Woo Bin left, Jan Di made a face and stuck her tongue out. Ji Hoo chuckled and told her he would fetch a drink for her. Ji Hoo had ensured that there was regular food at the party, too—including Jan Di's favorites—so he would make sure to bring some of that back for her, as well.

When Ji Hoo left, Jun Pyo excused himself from talking with Jae Kyung and approached Jan Di. Sticking his hands into his pockets, he looked down upon her with no expression whatsoever.

Jan Di looked up at her very tall ex-boyfriend, attempting to read his face.

After a few seconds, Jun Pyo spoke, "So, seeing you in that white coat of yours… I guess ugly ducklings really can become swans," and he grinned at her in a manner that was Gu Jun Pyo's alone.

Rather than becoming angry, she smiled and exclaimed, "Hey, Gu Jun Pyo, you got it right!"

Jun Pyo scoffed. "Of course I did!"

Jan Di chuckled before growing serious again. "Thank you for coming, Jun Pyo."

He nodded.

"It…means a lot to me," she said, lowering her eyes.

Jun Pyo released a bit of air through his nose, and Jan Di raised her eyes to meet his dark ones again. She had looked into those eyes so many times, and as she did so, she couldn't help but be reminded of some of their memories together. It was as if she was looking back in time when she gazed into those expressive eyes—the ones that always gave him away.

The silence began eating away at them, and neither knew quite what to say next...

Suddenly, Jun Pyo reached for her. Grabbing her by the shoulders, he pulled her into a rough embrace. Jan Di's eyes widened at the unexpected physical contact; she went limp against him but didn't attempt to break free.

Jun Pyo's hug began rough but then softened. With one hand on her back and the other behind her head, he fixed her in place against his chest. "I'm…proud of you," he whispered as he held her there.

Unable to believe the words that had come out of her former love's mouth, her lips parted. "You've accomplished something amazing, Geum Jan Di. You have made the Great Gu Jun Pyo proud."

Jan Di's lips curled into a smile as he held her there, and they shared a moment together.

…

Finally, he slowly released her.

Jae Kyung had been looking on, but she didn't feel jealousy in that moment. Instead, she smiled at the scene before her eyes. When she noticed Ji Hoo walking toward the two, she decided to go over, as well.

Ji Hoo looked between Jun Pyo and Jan Di, and he put on a smile, as he handed Jan Di a glass of water and plate of appetizers—a few fish cake balls with dipping sauce and kimbap.

Jan Di thanked her fiancé, and they exchanged a few polite words with Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung. Then, Ji Hoo informed Jan Di that it was time…

She nodded, and they excused themselves.

Ji Hoo had asked Jan Di about how she wanted to break the news of their engagement. The graduation party seemed the perfect time and place to officially announce it since all their family and closest friends would be gathered. Ji Hoo had told Jan Di that he asked her parents for permission and also mentioned to F3 that he was going to ask her, but no one knew exactly when it would happen.

After Jan Di scarfed down the rest of her food and set her plate on a tray to be taken away, Ji Hoo took two flutes of champagne, and—handing one to Jan Di—he led her up to the front of the living room. Ji Hoo cleared his throat. "Excuse me, if I could have everyone's attention, I'd like to say a few words."

They stood before the row of windows looking out onto Ji Hoo's patio facing their guests. All had gathered and were waiting anxiously.

As Jan Di stood beside her handsome husband-to-be, preparing for him to make the announcement to the group that they were to be married, she felt butterflies in her stomach. But she wasn't sure why she should be feeling this way. Perhaps it was just the fact that she was the center of attention.

Or rather, Ji Hoo was. And she knew he hated that.

Ji Hoo held out his glass to toast. "All of you know me and know that I'm not one for speeches…," he cleared his throat again and glanced to Jan Di. When he hesitated, she smiled reassuringly up at him. To further ease his nervousness, she slipped her free hand into his and gave it a squeeze.

And Jan Di's sweet gesture gave Ji Hoo the courage to continue, "First, I'd like to say how incredibly proud I am of my amazing girlfriend, Geum Jan Di, for graduating from medical school," and Ji Hoo fought back the tears that were welling at the corners of his eyes. It wouldn't do for all their family and friends to see him looking like a big baby, after all. "…Jan Di has worked so hard for this, and she has a natural gift for helping others, so I know that she is going to make an incredible doctor."

When Ji Hoo met her eye, Jan Di smiled appreciatively and mouthed a thank you. Then, Ji Hoo raised his glass, "So, please join me in toasting Geum Jan Di's great accomplishment!" Ji Hoo turned to Jan Di, and they clinked glasses.

With that, cheers were heard all around and shouts of, "Jjan," and "Gunbae!"

"There's one more thing…," Ji Hoo called out to the group. And they all ceased making noise—some even pausing mid-drink.

Ji Hoo had already asked Jan Di's parents for permission, so they knew it was coming, and he'd mentioned to F2 weeks ago that he was going to propose. He had been nervous asking her parents for permission, but the person he had been the most anxious about telling was Jun Pyo…

Jun Pyo had taken the news in the expected fashion—with a lot of false bravado and an apathetic attitude. The conversation went well enough, and Ji Hoo was convinced that Jun Pyo wasn't repressing any resentment or regret over the fact that he was going to ask Jan Di to marry him.

Jan Di surveyed the room—full of the people closest to her—and her eyes settled on her parents and brother. She could tell that they were bursting at the seams waiting for the announcement.

Ji Hoo informed her today of going to them for permission weeks ago, and she was amazed that they kept the secret for that long.

Then, Jan Di felt Ji Hoo squeeze her hand. She looked up at him, as he took a deep breath and proceeded with his announcement.

"I asked Jan Di to marry me, and she agreed," Ji Hoo proclaimed proudly to the room. "We're getting married."

At the announcement, Ga Eul and Jae Kyung shrieked. Jan Di's parents cheered, while Kang San beamed and gave two thumbs up. Yi Jeong was clapping beside Ga Eul, and Woo Bin was whooping now, after shouting, "Finally!"

Jan Di glanced to Ji Hoo, and then her eyes instinctively shot to Jun Pyo, gauging his reaction. He remained silent, stone-faced. He met her eyes, and then slowly, a tiny smile crossed his lips. And the two former lovers shared a second moment—a moment that seemed to say, 'I'm happy for you, and I'll always care about you…'

Then, Jan Di looked back at Ji Hoo. He smiled, at her and they shared a few blissful seconds before Jan Di was accosted by Ga Eul and Jae Kyung—one on each side of her. Her parents and Kang San were right behind, and F3 and Grandfather took turns giving hugs, pats on the back, and hand clasps. And it turned into several big group hugs.

After presenting Jan Di with gifts, everyone began to leave Ji Hoo's home—around 10 PM.

Jan Di ushered her family toward the door, thanking them for coming to support her. Ji Hoo had offered his driver as their ride home, so Gong-Ju beckoned Kang San on ahead to the Escalade. After giving his noona a quick hug of congratulations, Jan Di's little brother headed off toward the car.

Ji Hoo and Jan Di bid her parents goodbye, too, but Gong-Ju and Il-Bong held back, pulling their daughter off to the side away from Ji Hoo. Taking the hint, Ji Hoo waved and headed off into the next room.

After Ji Hoo left, Il-Bong squeezed Jan Di hard in an emotional hug that seemed to last a small eternity. "Appa loves his little Jan Di-ah, and he's so proud of her!" Il-Bong blubbered.

"Thanks, Appa. I love you, too," she replied, hugging back.

Gong-Ju rolled her eyes at her husband's excessive sentimentality. She was much more practical. "Yes, yes, Jan Di-ah, we are both proud. You've made this family very proud. Not only did you graduate from medical school," and Gong-Ju said it in a way that did little to veil her great surprise over that, "but you also managed to land a wealthy fiancé."

For some reason, Jan Di had a feeling that the latter part was far more incredible to her mother. Jan Di dropped her head back and groaned, "Eommaaa…"

"I know, I know. I'm not supposed to mention that," Gong-Ju replied. "But let me just say one more thing…," and Jan Di's mother placed her hands upon her hips.

Jan Di tightened her mouth, eyeing her mother suspiciously. "What, Eomma?"

"I'm very happy for you, but just because you two are engaged now doesn't mean you can act like a pair of bunnies!"

"Eomma!" Jan Di shouted out.

Il-Bong's mouth hung open at his wife's forthright statement.

"I'm just saying… Behave yourself… Maybe you should come live at home until you're married," she raised a brow, "so you won't be tempted…"

"Eomma!"

Aigoo, she finally gets what she wants—I'm engaged to Ji Hoo now—and it's still not enough! She's still not happy!

It was rather infuriating to Jan Di, and she almost wanted to just go and do it with Ji Hoo right now, just to spite her mother. But no, having sex shouldn't be done out of spite or anger, or anything other than being in love—and when it was right and both people felt ready...

How much readier did she need to feel, though?

And her mother's words brought the ever-present subject to mind…

She and Ji Hoo had waited this long, so what was a little more time? Still, it hadn't been easy, and Jan Di wondered if perhaps her mother was right. Perhaps she should consider staying elsewhere until they were married... But that was silly, wasn't it? There was no need for that…

With head held high, Jan Di asserted, "I don't need to do that. I can control myself…," and she muttered the last part. Her sex life wasn't really any of her mother's business anyway…

I can control myself…, she assured herself.

Folding her arms, Gong-Ju replied, "Well, make sure you do."

"Yes, Eomma…," Jan Di begrudgingly agreed.

"What about him?" Gong-Ju raised a brow.

"Ji Hoo? What about him?"

"Can he control himself, too?"

A smile tugged at the corner of Jan Di's lips. "Eomma, Yoon Ji Hoo is the picture of self-control." And it was true...

Satisfied with her answer, Gong-Ju prepared to leave, and Jan Di once again bid her parents goodbye. Jan Di's eomma walked on ahead while her appa followed dutifully behind. But then, Il-Bong suddenly stopped and turned back.

Jan Di's appa approached and slipped her some won. It wasn't much, but she knew he must have worked hard to save it. "Appa, you don't have to…"

"I want to, Jan Di-ah."

"But you need this money..."

"No, we'll be fine. Just take it, please. You can put it toward whatever you want."

Jan Di knew that taking the money would make her father happy, and she didn't want to hurt his pride. So, she decided to accept it.

The gesture touched her, and she sniffled before throwing her arms around her father's neck. "Thank you so much, Appa!"

After the guests were all gone, Grandfather came up to Jan Di and Ji Hoo. He pulled Jan Di into a warm hug and then gave her a kiss on the cheek. "I'm very proud of you, Jan Di-ah," he spoke genuinely. "And congratulations! I'm so happy you are going to be my granddaughter-in-law."

"Thank you, Harabeoji," she said. They exchanged a smile, and Grandfather patted Ji Hoo on the shoulder before ambling off to bed.

Once they were alone, Jan Di made her way over to the couch and slumped down upon it. She was exhausted, yet exhilarated, from the extremely long day she had.

This day had been surreal, in fact… Not only had she officially graduated from medical school, but she'd been proposed to by her true love, her soulmate. What day could ever hope to compare to that? Well, perhaps their wedding day would stand a chance…

Ji Hoo stood there, watching Jan Di's eyes flutter, and he smiled affectionately at her. Her eyes fully opened, and she noticed him gazing upon her. "Ji Hoo-yah, why are you looking at me like that?" she asked, bemused.

Ji Hoo placed his hands in his pockets and gave her a loving smile. "Just because… Because I'm so proud of you…and because…I love you so much."

Jan Di practically melted at his words. She sat up straighter, and smiling brightly at him, she patted the couch cushion beside her. Ji Hoo returned her smile and informed her that he would be right back, as he retreated to his room. He returned a moment later holding a small velvet box. He sat down beside her and held it out to her, "Here."

"What's this?" she asked, taking it. It was clearly a jewelry box.

"Just a small graduation present. Open it."

"You didn't have to do that," Jan Di said humbly, as she pulled open the hinged lid.

Ji Hoo said nothing but simply watched for her reaction.

Inside was a necklace—a diamond lotus pendant on a white gold chain. Jan Di's lips parted as she stared down at it. "Ji Hoo-yah…"

"Do you like it?"

She nodded quickly. "Yes, but it's too much. What if I lose it?" She didn't have the best track record with jewelry, after all.

"You won't."

"But what if I do?"

"I know how carefully you guard your keepsakes…," and Ji Hoo recalled the painstaking efforts she'd went to in the past to retrieve the moon and star necklace Jun Pyo had gotten for her. But Ji Hoo shook away those thoughts and continued, "I know you won't lose it, but if you do, I'd forgive you," and he smiled at her. Taking the necklace out of its box, he unclasped it. "Do you want to wear it?"

She nodded, and he asked her to turn around while he clasped it for her. She did so, and Ji Hoo swept aside Jan Di's now shoulder-length hair. Reaching around her, he secured the necklace and allowed it to fall gently into place.

Jan Di took the pendant between her thumb and forefinger. "This is…a lotus?" and she looked up at him curiously.

"Yes. Do you remember the time we went to the museum, and you asked me about them?"

"Yes," Jan Di nodded.

"And I told you that the lotus purifies even the muddiest of waters…"

"Yes."

"Well, that day when we went to the temple, the monk there told me that your face was like the lotus, and he explained to me what that meant. I got that necklace for you because that is what you are to me. You are my lotus…able to clear even the darkest of waters… No matter what I'm going through, it seems that all I need to do is look upon your face, and instantly everything gets better…"

"Ji Hoo…"

"He told me something else, too…"

"What's that?"

"He told me to cherish you."

Jan Di cocked her head in curiosity, as Ji Hoo continued. "He told me to cherish you because…you would give me a family."

Jan Di's lips parted, and she felt her eyes growing misty.

Ji Hoo simply smiled. "At the time, I could only dream about that prediction actually coming true, but now…," and he stopped himself. Perhaps he was getting ahead of himself.

Jan Di was staring up at him with those big doe eyes of hers. Ji Hoo leaned forward to give her a peck to the forehead. Pulling back, he changed the subject, "There is one thing that you said that day that I didn't understand, though, Jan Di-ah…"

"What's that?"

"You said that it was your homework to learn about the lotus. What assignment was that?"

"Well," Jan Di chuckled. "Actually, it was homework from Grandfather. He…also told me that I reminded him of the lotus, and he assigned me the homework of finding out why the lotus blooms in muddy waters."

"Ah, I see," Ji Hoo nodded. How interesting...

The betrothed couple then settled back against the cushions of the couch. Jan Di nestled against Ji Hoo's shoulder and shut her eyes. "Gomawo, Ji Hoo-yah," she whispered, her eyes still closed, "…for everything."

Ji Hoo placed an arm around her. He rotated to place a kiss upon the top of her head and then rested his head against hers. "It's like I said, I have far more to thank you for, Jan Di-yah…," and his eyes shot wistfully skyward.

And Ji Hoo began lightly tracing circles upon his fiancée's arm, as he mused upon all that she meant to him. "I could never in a million years even begin to thank you for all that you have done for me, but…I plan to spend the rest of my life trying…"

At that, Jan Di opened her eyes and fixed him with a tender stare. "Ji Hoo-yah…"

He smiled, and she raised up to place a kiss upon his lips. Then, she returned to her previous position. And they remained that way—still, for several minutes—being far too comfortable to move.

"I can't believe we're engaged," Jan Di uttered her thoughts aloud, as they embraced.

Ji Hoo let out a little scoff, startling Jan Di.

"You can't believe it," he muttered, "…I never thought we'd be where we are today, Jan Di-ah... For the longest time, I thought that the idea of you and I was an impossible fantasy…"

"Ji Hoo-yah…"

Ji Hoo clenched his jaw upon realization of how freely he'd spoken. He must seem so pathetic to her.

She was just staring at him.

He met her eyes, searching them for her true thoughts on what he just said. Her eyes were the same soft and tender ones as always—the color of warm molasses and twinkling like tiny stars.

In an attempt at diverting the topic, he tossed her a disarming smile and said, "It's been a long day. Why don't you go to bed, my little otter?"

. . .

But the reminder of how long he had waited for her combined with all that he had done for her—today and on so many other days—did her in. Rather than responding to his rhetorical question, she grasped onto his perfectly starched collar with both hands and pulled him down into a passionate kiss…

Instinctively, Ji Hoo wound his arms tighter around her back and pressed her into him. As her lips wandered his, she slowly opened her mouth. He followed along, allowing her tongue to slip inside and guide his. He'd follow her anywhere, after all…

In a sensual push-and-pull, their upper bodies collided with each other. Ji Hoo bent Jan Di backward over the armrest of the couch, dragging his lips down her neck, while massaging her back and sides. Then, his hands wandered upward and settled upon her breasts. With a pleasurable gasp, Jan Di arched her back and tossed her head to give him better access. Shutting her eyes and softly sighing, she enjoyed the sensations of his moist lips upon her throat and his large hands stroking and squeezing her breasts. When Ji Hoo settled upon one particularly sensitive area along her jugular—sucking and nibbling at the skin there—Jan Di nearly cried out. Subduing it as best she could, she pushed back hard against his chest with the palms of her hands.

Ji Hoo stopped short. Had he taken things too far tonight already?

Catching his breath, he opened his mouth to apologize to her, but before he could say anything she straddled him. Covered his mouth with hers, she silenced him mid-word. Ji Hoo released a muffled 'mmm' of approval, as she gave him a deep, wet kiss and pressed her body flush against his. Locked in a furious kiss, Jan Di grasped his shoulders and thrust her pelvis into his, causing him to moan in pleasure. He held her hips, guiding her movements.

It was impossible to ignore his arousal as it grew and pressed against her. Just thinking about it made her grow wet and crave his touch. Ever since their first kiss, she'd noticed the sensation growing within her, and now, all it took was a certain look or light caress to make her body respond with a lust she never knew she possessed.

They finally parted for air, yet their foreheads remained touching, almost magnetically. And they stared deep into one another's eyes.

Panting faintly, Ji Hoo glanced toward Grandfather's room. They weren't exactly concealed where they were, and although they weren't being exceedingly noisy yet, they weren't exactly being quiet either…

Hoping they could continue, Ji Hoo suggested, "…Maybe…we should…go to my room…" His voice came out in a husky, broken whisper and served to further turn Jan Di on.

There was something almost exhilarating about the risk of being caught, but Jan Di certainly did not want to give Grandfather a heart attack if he were to wake and catch them. Ji Hoo's bedroom was a better choice, now that it was more closed off than before.

Still catching her breath, Jan Di nodded.

Jan Di reluctantly dismounted Ji Hoo, and they both stood. Slipping her hand into his, she proceeded to walk with him toward the bedroom. But suddenly, Ji Hoo stopped. Jan Di looked at him in question just before he scooped her up into his arms. She smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck, as he leaned forward to capture her lips. And they exchanged repeated, persistent kisses as he carried her off to his bedroom.

Despite the heat clearly present between them, Ji Hoo laid her down upon his bed as delicately as a child. He proceeded to crawl in next and didn't waste any time in straddling her. Leaning down, he captured her lips again with his own. The kiss was quick and passionate, and then he moved on to her neck.

As he caressed her soft skin with his lips, Jan Di ran her hands all along his forearms and up his triceps—taut from holding himself above her. She gave the muscles there an extra stroke before sliding her hands up to perch upon his shoulders. Eagerly, her fingers wandered into his hair and got lost in it. At the same time, his hands were exploring her entire body. Ji Hoo rolled them onto their sides, and Jan Di wrapped one leg around his, squeezing with her thighs and grinding her pelvis into his.

Their kisses became needy and their movements reckless, as they rolled around on his bed. At various points she would be on top; seconds later, he would be. And Jan Di's head was spinning.

Jan Di was running her hands all along his white button-down, bunching and wrinkling the fabric. And she clutched at the muscles of his back when his hand traveled lower. First, he began stroking her thighs and then her pelvis. And Jan Di could feel the heat rising from within her…

It was all so pleasant, yet there was still one hindrance—their clothing.

Eagerly, they began to remove it for one another. Staring into his eyes, Jan Di began to undo the buttons of Ji Hoo's shirt. When she fumbled with them, he took her hands in his and placed a kiss upon each knuckle. Then, he unfastened the remaining ones for her.

Swiftly discarding the shirt, Ji Hoo tossed it to the floor. And he turned back to his fiancée. Placing a moist kiss upon her lips, he began to peel away the layers of clothing still separating him from her. She sat up and raised her hands over her head, allowing him to remove her hoodie and the t-shirt underneath. And both were thrown aside.

As they traded kisses and caresses, Ji Hoo reached around Jan Di's back to unhook her plain cotton bra. He hesitated at the clasp briefly, looking deep into her eyes. Sensing no disapproval, he continued removing the garment and tossed it likewise to the floor.

After the shirts came her pants.

Wearing nothing now but the necklace he'd gifted and peach panties, Jan Di traced a finger along the curves of her lover's chest. Meanwhile, Ji Hoo took a moment to gaze down upon her—and adore every inch. He'd seen parts of her before, but not like this—and he knew he would never get enough of it.

When he took too long looking, she wrapped her arms around his neck and brought him down to her chest. He buried his face there, as she wrapped her legs around him.

Heady with pleasure, Jan Di hadn't been thinking this entire time. But now, for some reason, her mind began to wander…

. . .

Was she betraying her mother? Why was she thinking of that now anyway?! But the thought only briefly crossed Jan Di's mind. And it completely slipped away as she sunk once more into Ji Hoo's touch…

. . .

Besides, hadn't she waited long enough? It felt like an eternity. After all, not many women her age could say that they had held out this long… Even fewer could claim to have remained chaste while living with an incredibly attractive fiancé. And none of them could boast to have resisted the temptation of a man like Yoon Ji Hoo... All but Seo Hyun. And Jan Di wondered about that… Had Ji Hoo offered himself to her…? She wasn't really clear on what happened in Paris…

But as Ji Hoo took her left breast in his mouth, she ceased wondering. And she sighed in approval. As he sucked on her nipple, while kneading her other breast she began to feel woozy with pleasure. Shutting her eyes tight, she arched her back.

The temperature began to rise and a sheen of sweat covered their skin. Jan Di dug her nails into his back and softly sighed out his name. She began kissing along his jaw, down his neck, and she gave his ear a nibble. And he continued kneading and licking each breast in turn.

And then she felt him roam lower…

Ji Hoo brought his lips back up to hers and kissed her deeply. As their tongues wrestled, he continued stroking her through her panties. And Jan Di felt her body begin to move on its own. It felt so good that Jan Di could not contain her sighs or whimpers, and her lower body involuntarily thrust into his hand.

Caught up in the moment, Ji Hoo tucked his hand inside her panties. His long fingers slid down, grazing over her pelvis and stopping just at her entrance. And slowly, he curled up a finger inside of her.

Jan Di gasped and squirmed at the sudden sensation, causing Ji Hoo to pull back. "I'm sorry, Jan Di-ah. I'm sorry! I took it too far." He seemed just short of panicking.

He began to remove his hand, but Jan Di grabbed hold of it. Her chest rising and falling, she breathed out, "No, don't stop…"

It shocked Ji Hoo, for they had already passed the point where they would normally cut things off. But when he looked into her eyes, which were darkened by desire and devoid of any uncertainty, he continued.

Experimentally, he fingered her inside. And Jan Di let out a shuddering moan and grasped onto him, as he discovered this new realm of pleasure. When Ji Hoo found the right spot he continued, determined to make her feel as good as he possibly could.

Jan Di held onto her boyfriend's neck as if for dear life. Her body was twitching and writhing in pleasure as he swirled his fingers around within her. She had been fighting back her vocalizations, but as she ran her hands throughout his tawny locks, she succumbed to the sensations. "Oh, oh, Ji…Hoo…," her voice came out at first in an insistent whisper, and then grew louder, "…Ji Hoo…Ji Hoo…Ji Hoo!"

The sound of her calling out his name nearly did him in. He growled in approval and began working faster. A small cry escaped her lips, which he shushed with a kiss. His movements and her reactions continued to build and build until she reached her orgasm…

. . .

Afterward, she relaxed and tried to breathe. Turning to him, she whispered, "That was amazing…" Ji Hoo smiled and kissed her, immensely pleased that he could bring her such satisfaction.

It was then that Jan Di realized that he had been holding back in order to take care of her. And Ji Hoo was always trying to please her in every way possible. She wanted to please him, too… Jan Di didn't know much about sex, but she knew of one thing all men seemed to like…

So, hesitantly, she lowered her hand down to the waist of his pants, to his belt buckle. Ji Hoo looked at her in surprise but didn't attempt to stop her as she slipped his belt loop back through its buckle. In doing so, she grazed his member, and Ji Hoo felt himself swell at the mere touch. She tugged at the belt; he removed it completely for her and dropped it aside. Then, he allowed her to undo his pants. Slipping them off, those too fell aside.

They were both down to underwear now. Never before had they been in such a state.

Jan Di took a deep breath, as she stared down at him. She'd always been aware of what he was concealing, and she'd come to greatly enjoy the feel of it rubbing it against her. Yet, up to this point, she'd been afraid to touch. Curiosity and desire finally got the better of her, though, and she delicately reached for his throbbing member.

At first, she only skimmed the shaft with her fingertips. Then, she traced a finger along it briefly before growing bold enough to take it fully in her small hand. And she marveled at his size as her fist gripped it. Having only felt it pressed against her before, she never fully realized it.

Ji Hoo bucked at the unexpected sensation and moaned in pleasure when she began experimentally stroking. It was almost too much, and the only thing better would be if there wasn't a barrier of clothing between. Or perhaps, if she were to use another body part...

"Jan Di…Jan Di…Jan Di…," he cried out her name huskily.

Awkwardly, she continued. Ji Hoo watched her, encouraging her rhythm. Moments later he closed his eyes. His entire body shuddered, and he grasped onto Jan Di, calling out her name. Jan Di released his manhood and embraced him tightly as his body slowly and relaxed.

. . .

After their session, Ji Hoo and Jan Di lie together, hugging as they fell asleep. Jan Di rested against Ji Hoo's chest. She was enjoying the warmth of him and the steady rising and falling motion, like gentle ocean waves, as he breathed.

And she thought about what had just taken place…

It wasn't the first time they'd fooled around—not even close. But it was the first time they'd taken things this far. Usually, their make-out sessions consisted of a lot of kissing, caressing, and rubbing against one another, which was all very pleasant, but nothing like this had been…

Perhaps she should feel guilty, but she didn't—not at all. And as she lay against Ji Hoo's warm chest, all she felt was love and satisfaction.

Tonight had been amazing, in fact, but somehow Jan Di had the feeling that she was in big trouble. Although it was satisfying, she had the feeling that after this her desire would only continue to grow. After tonight, she knew that she was a complete goner. How in the world could she ever manage to wait now? At this rate, the only hope she had of ever waiting to make love with Ji Hoo was to stay completely away from him. And how was that ever going to work?

Not going all the way made her feel a bit better about herself, but at this point, did it really matter? She was his and his alone—and she always would be…

Jan Di raised her head to look up at Ji Hoo. And she smiled tenderly as she watched his eyes begin to flutter. Hugging him tighter, she felt his breathing slow as he drifted off to sleep. And she followed along shortly after…

That Night…

After Jan Di's party, Jun Pyo drove Jae Kyung back to the penthouse she often stayed in when she was in Seoul. For most of the drive, they sat together without speaking in his midnight black Lotus Europa S. Jae Kyung noticed the eerie quiet along their late-night drive—as foreboding as a scene from a horror movie. For her own sanity, she decided to break the silence.

"It's so great about Ji Hoo and Jan Di!" she began in an overly loud, bubbly tone of voice. Then, she glanced over at Jun Pyo. "Isn't it?" she asked tentatively.

Although she was fairly certain that her fiancé was over his ex-girlfriend by now, Jae Kyung couldn't help but have some lingering anxiety over it, especially after seeing them together tonight. Watching Jun Pyo's reaction to the engagement and his interaction with Jan Di this night, the heiress couldn't help but wonder if there was still the tiniest spark between her husband-to-be and her best friend.

"Yea," Jun Pyo muttered.

Partially out of nervousness, Jae Kyung prattled on, "They're going to be so happy together! Don't you think? Just like us…," and she looked over at him again. Jun Pyo was staring silently out ahead. He tapped a finger upon the steering wheel and simply kept driving.

With a sigh, Jae Kyung shrunk down in her seat and slapped her hands against her knees. After saying nothing for as long as she could—about two minutes—she asked, "Is…something wrong, Jun?"

Jun Pyo kept his eyes on the road. "No, nothing."

But the evening had brought back a flood of memories for Jun Pyo—memories of both Geum Jan Di and Ha Jae Kyung. So much had happened—so much had changed—over the last few years, and Jun Pyo began to take stock of his life…

He was certainly a very different man than he was six years ago, even an unrecognizable one at that. And he owed it all to two very special women…

Geum Jan Di was the woman who began the change in him, and Ha Jae Kyung was the one who completed it. Although the Monkey Girl came from the same world as him, she was completely different than every other wealthy, privileged individual he'd ever met. And though he would never say it to her, he appreciated having Ha Jae Kyung in his life.

But it wasn't always so...

At first, he had nothing but contempt for the JK Group heiress—well, not so much for her as for his own mother, for putting both of them in the situation they were in. In the beginning, Ha Jae Kyung was merely an annoying tagalong, but as their first near-wedding crept up, he resented her more and more for keeping him from his true love…

But then she called it off, and even though he'd thanked her for that, he wasn't sure that she really knew how much it had meant to him at the time. The point was completely moot now, of course.

And then, after his heartbreak over Jan Di, she was there for him. She became a friend he could rely on, and—as emasculating as it was—a shoulder to cry on. For a long time, he'd had a begrudging affection for Ha Jae Kyung, but when they were reunited in New York, his love for her slowly grew…

Yes, he loved the crazy Monkey Girl. There was no denying it. But he also couldn't deny that there was still a place for Geum Jan Di in his heart—maybe there always would be…

After returning to Korea—and their engagement being officially announced—Madam Kang had invited Jae Kyung to live in the Gu Mansion. As expected, Madam Kang was thrilled when she found out that Ha Jae Kyung would be marrying her son after all.

Although his mother had mellowed some since his father awoke, it still irked Jun Pyo a bit—that she was so accepting of Jae Kyung, yet she never had been of Jan Di. If the Evil Witch hadn't interfered so much, he wondered if he and Jan Di would be together now... And Jun Pyo immediately felt guilty for that thought, for he had grown to love the Monkey Girl very much…

Overall, Jun Pyo was thankful for his relationship with Jae Kyung, and things were good between them now. But it hadn't always been smooth sailing… There had been plenty of fights and misunderstandings. Still, even their fights were treasured memories for Jun Pyo, for they were what defined them—and it always turned out OK in the end...

As he drove, Jun Pyo recalled a particular fight they'd had over the details of their wedding…

Ten Months Ago…

Jae Kyung was at his place. They'd been engaged for nearly two months now, and he'd said little about the wedding, though she had brought it up multiple times.

"We need to start planning the wedding, you know, Jun," she said out-of-the-blue, as they sat together on his couch after returning from a dinner date.

But Jun Pyo didn't want to discuss it. He was exhausted from a long day of meeting and schmoozing people, and of course, he'd had to see his mother. She wasn't as bad as she used to be—he supposed—but it still always put him in a foul mood afterward…

Thinking of the Witch, Jun Pyo replied, "Why don't we just elope and get it over with…"

"Ya!" Jae Kyung smacked him on the arm. "Get it over with? Oh, that's soo romantic, Jun!" Jae Kyung drawled in an overly dramatic way.

But Jun Pyo wasn't entirely joking. He didn't want the Witch to get her hands into this wedding, too. In fact, the idea of eloping was sounding better by the second.

"Why not? We could go anywhere you want."

Jae Kyung paused for a moment, pondering the notion. "But…our families…," and she placed a finger to her chin. "Well, I suppose we could invite them along, of course... It does sound tempting, but…," and Jae Kyung shook her head. "No, I think we should get married at home."

Jun Pyo sighed and slumped back against the couch cushion, closing his eyes.

"Why are you thinking of eloping all of a sudden, Jun?"

Jun Pyo was silent and after a moment, Jae Kyung poked him in the arm. He ignored the poke, so she poked him a second time, harder. Heaving a sigh, he opened his large, chocolate eyes. "I just don't want the Witch to interfere in this wedding."

Jae Kyung nodded in understanding, as she observed Jun Pyo. "You know, you really should stop calling her that. I know she's done some terrible things, but she is still your eomma..."

Jun Pyo scoffed and blurted out, "When has she ever acted like one?"

Sighing softly, Jae Kyung laid a hand along Jun Pyo's solid arm. "I know how you feel about your eomma, and I have issues with my parents, too, but this isn't about them. It's about us."

"Exactly!" he snapped. "Everyone is going to think it's about the merger again…"

"But it's not this time. We're in love. And who cares what they think?"

Jun Pyo groaned, "I'm just sick of all the media garbage. It's almost reason enough not to get married…"

A hurt expression immediately crossed Jae Kyung's features. "Jun…," she murmured, "you…you mean you don't want to marry me…?"

"I…well…I uh…," he stammered.

And Jae Kyung's dark eyes began to moisten. Turning fully away from him, she covered her face with her hands.

Jun Pyo watched her. She was hunched over slightly, and her body was trembling. She looked so vulnerable, so pitiful—it wasn't at all like he was used to seeing her.

Jun Pyo couldn't take it. He grasped onto her shoulders, forcibly turning her around to face him. And she was softly sobbing.

"Don't do that!" he demanded, giving her a shake.

But she wrenched herself away from him and scooted over on the couch, leaning forward and burying her face in her hands.

"I didn't mean it like that!" he exclaimed desperately.

Tentatively, he reached out for her, but she smacked his hand away.

"Don't you love me anymore, Jun?" she blubbered through her hands.

"Aish!" Jun Pyo sighed. He just couldn't stand seeing the feisty heiress weeping like a small child before him. So, he grabbed her shoulders again and crushed her against his chest. Winding his arms fully around her small body, he kept her snugly in place. He wouldn't let her get away this time.

This time she didn't resist, and he held her against him, just letting her cry it out. Finally, he worked up the courage to whisper against her hair, "I do love you. And I do want to marry you… You crazy monkey…"

Still buried in his expensive shirt, she tenderly murmured, "Jun…" She pulled back to gaze up into his eyes. And then she smacked his chest. "Don't make me worry like that!"

Jun Pyo scoffed, and—before she could argue further—leaned forward to place a rough kiss on her mouth.

. . .

Eventually, they worked out the details of the wedding, deciding to have it in Korea, after all. It had taken Jun Pyo awhile to get past the notion that marrying Ha Jae Kyung was allowing his mother to win, but he'd managed to come to terms with it…

The Present…

They arrived at the JK Group's hotel in downtown Seoul, and Jun Pyo pulled his car up front. Jae Kyung's door was immediately opened by the doorman.

Turning to Jun Pyo, Jae Kyung asked, "Would you walk up with me?"

Jun Pyo nodded in silent agreement. He opened the door on his side and got out. And they walked into the lavish lobby—complete with elaborate crystal chandelier, elegant furniture, and intricate centerpieces adorning the seating area. As they headed toward the private elevator that would take them directly to her penthouse, Jae Kyung thought of how odd it was...

It wasn't odd that he would escort her up to her place, for he'd gotten in the habit of doing so, but normally he would complain about her requesting it. He always said that it was stupid, that he had no fear of her being attacked. She was a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, after all. Besides, she always had bodyguards tailing her everywhere she went, even though she sent them away sometimes.

Every time he would grumble about it, but tonight, he said nothing…

Jae Kyung knew Gu Jun Pyo quite well by now, and she could tell that he was holding back something that he didn't want to say. She suspected that it had something to do with Jan Di and Ji Hoo's engagement…

Perhaps he was feeling nostalgic or something. It was understandable, but she didn't want to leave him alone to think over his times with Jan Di, so she suggested, "You could stay here if you want, Jun…," and as an excuse, she added, "It's late and your place is kind of far…"

Jun Pyo hesitated.

"It's not like we haven't stayed together before…"

Jun Pyo's face grew red, as he recalled that time—the time they took their relationship to another level...

It was about six months ago, and he recalled that she had looked particularly beautiful that night…

Six Months Ago…

Jae Kyung was growing tired of waiting… She felt like she was always the one initiating the physical contact between them, despite their engagement. Oh, knew that—despite his bravado—Jun Pyo was a bit shy, and she had been trying to make him more comfortable with the idea of being intimate with her. So, despite her raging desire for him, she was taking her time.

Slowly, they'd become increasingly affectionate, but they hadn't yet made love. And Jun Pyo seemed to have some idealistic notions about that. It was surprising to the peppy heiress, and she wondered if perhaps the great Gu Jun Pyo was covering for some feelings of inadequacy… It was a funny notion…

One night, Jae Kyung grew bold and asked to stay over at his place. He turned her down immediately, accusing her of being a conniving woman… She hadn't even realized he knew that word…

That night, they stood on the balcony of Jun Pyo's posh New York City penthouse overlooking the brightly lit Manhattan.

"Buuuut Junnnn, whyyyy?" she whined in that voice he found simultaneously annoying and oddly cute. Strangely, she was near-impossible to resist when she behaved this way, which was even more annoying. And not to mention, the dress she was wearing accentuated her lithe features in a very appealing way…

"Aish, just because! Now pipe down! The whole city is going to hear your loud voice!" he commanded.

"Look who's talking!" she shot back, giving him a shove to the chest. "Just this one time…," and she clasped her hands together hopefully.

"NO!"

"Whyy?" she whined and stomped her foot like a child having a tantrum.

"Because it's MY place and we're not married YET!"

Jae Kyung groaned. "What's the big deal? What are you afraid of…?" she smirked and began slinking toward him.

"Stay back, you crazy monkey! I know how your dirty mind works!" and he put out a hand to prevent her from coming any closer.

"Ya! Dirty mind?!" Jae Kyung scoffed and shoved Jun Pyo again, harder.

"That's right!" he shouted back. "Don't you have any morals at all? You're a very bad little monkey, wanting to sleep over at a man's house before you're married…"

Her push put distance between them once more, and they stood several feet apart. Jae Kyung scowled at her fiancé. But then the corners of her mouth twitched into a smirk. "Who knew Gu Jun Pyo had such a high sense of honor?" she teased.

Jun Pyo scoffed.

Then, her smirk twisted into a pout. "But Jun, I lived at your mansion for a little while when we were engaged before…," and she stuck her lip out further.

"That was different…," he muttered, looking away.

And he recalled that period of time, how uncomfortable he'd been… It also forced him to remember when Jan Di had lived in his home briefly, as his maid…

"What about Jan Di and Ji Hoo?" Jae Kyung brought up. "They live together…"

Jun Pyo shot her an icy look, and Jae Kyung could tell she was treading dangerous waters. But she continued, "Don't you think they have…"

Growling, Jun Pyo childishly covered his ears, as if he didn't want to hear anymore. And Jae Kyung immediately realized her mistake.

"That's different, too!" he shouted back, lowering his hands from his ears. "Why are we talking about this, anyway?!"

"I'm sorry…," she muttered, as he avoided eye contact with her.

Becoming flustered by the whole scenario, combined with his memories, Jun Pyo burst out with, "You can't share my bed!"

Jae Kyung gaped at him. Then, a look of pure amusement crossed her pretty face, and she giggled. "Who said anything about that?" she grinned. "I wasn't even thinking of sleeping in your bed, Jun..."

It was a fib, of course, for the idea had crossed her mind… And she was hopeful that he would allow her to, but she wasn't holding her breath.

Unable to resist torturing him a bit, she added, "I was just going to suggest sleeping in the guestroom… Now who has the dirty mind, Jun, hmm?"

Jun Pyo rubbed the back of his neck uncomfortably, and she stuck her tongue out at him.

"Damn right you're not!"

Jae Kyung released a burst of air through her nose. And then slowly, seductively she approached him.

Growing uncomfortable, he backed up until he hit the terrace wall. "What are you doing, you crazy monkey girl?

Jae Kyung placed her hands flat upon his broad chest. "Would that really be such a bad thing, Jun?" and she began tracing a finger along the contours of his chest.

Jun Pyo snatched her hand away. "Yes, it would."

"Why?" and she looked up at him with large, dark eyes.

"Because…I…I need my space!"

"I can give you space…"

"And I need my sleep! You're too noisy!"

"Ya, am not!" she screeched.

Jun Pyo dropped her hand and covered his ears. "You've just proven my point."

And Jae Kyung slugged him in the arm in response.

"Ya! And violent, too!"

"Pssh, you know...," she raised a brow, "when we're married you'll have to share a bed with me…"

And Jun Pyo felt the blood rushing to his lower extremities at the thought of sharing a bed with her. Fighting back his sudden blush—and working to control his body—he argued back, "Who says?"

"Well, that's the rule," the domineering young woman stated.

"I'm Gu Jun Pyo; I can change the rule if I want," and he poked out his chest in proclamation of that.

He expected her to argue that—or at least make a sarcastic comment—but instead, she embraced him around the waist. Burying her face in his chest, she muttered, "I don't want to go home, Jun… Can't I stay here, please? Just this once…," she begged, hugging him harder.

Jun Pyo was flabbergasted by the candor of the proud girl in his arms. Ha Jae Kyung was wild, unbridled, and capable of taking what she wanted—just like him. And she was certainly outspoken. But for her to plead with him like this…

Slowly, he wrapped his arms around her, too.

"I always miss you so much when I leave," she practically whimpered against him. "I don't ever want to be away from you, Jun. I always have to force myself to…"

Again, Jun Pyo was shocked by her fervent words.

"I know you think I'm a bad girl, but it's just…tough to wait sometimes…," Jae Kyung spoke honestly. Pulling back slightly, she looked up into his eyes. "I think you know how much I want you Jun…" Her words were sensual, almost desperate.

Jun Pyo's eyes widened, and he felt his lower extremities warming again. He said nothing but held her tighter, as he became increasingly aware of his growing need. Surely, she must notice, too. And his embarrassment grew.

When he remained silent, Jae Kyung squeezed him tighter and pressed her chest against him. "I'll go if you want, Jun… And I'll be as good as you want me to be. I'll do whatever you want…," she said directly, as she gazed up into his eyes and ran a hand along his collar.

…

"Stop it," he finally demanded, looking down upon her.

And Jae Kyung flinched at his sharp tone. "What?"

"Begging like this… It doesn't suit you," he said, stone-faced.

Jae Kyung scoffed, her eyes blazing with a fiery intensity. She ripped herself away, but he grasped onto her, pulling her back. She struggled against him, but it only made him hold her tighter.

The spunky girl could easily escape if she wanted to, but that wasn't the case. Still, she couldn't just succumb so easily. She halfheartedly wriggled around for a few more minutes before giving in. And she stared up at him with mock fury in her eyes.

"That's better," he spoke cockily.

Jae Kyung scoffed. Clearly, he liked it when she played hard to get, but right now, she didn't care.

And it was then that he claimed her mouth.

After a deep kiss, he pulled back, and they stared at one another. Jae Kyung only hesitated a few seconds before reaching up and taking his face between her small hands. She pulled him downward, pressing her lips firmly to his. And Jun Pyo answered her kiss with equal passion.

Taking him by surprise, Jae Kyung grasped onto Jun Pyo's shirt collar and pulled him toward the bedroom, while kissing intermittently.

Once inside, she shoved him onto the bed. Jae Kyung was spry, and in an instant, she had straddled Jun Pyo's hips. A tuft of dark hair fell across her eyes as she hovered over him. "I told you that I was going to tame you, didn't I?" she whispered seductively, as she stared into the dark chocolate eyes of the man she was hopelessly in love with.

Jun Pyo smirked up at her, and then his expression softened. Uncharacteristically, he reached up to tuck aside the loose strand of hair. Jae Kyung's breath hitched at the sweet gesture.

Pleased at having caught her off guard, Jun Pyo smiled. And then he turned the tables on her—flipping her over until she was lying on her back. Gu Jun Pyo would not be dominated, after all!

Holding himself above her, he simply stared down at her in satisfaction. Both were still panting heavily.

"Jun…," she muttered, just before he captured her lips again. And Jae Kyung caught him around the neck, pulling him down to her and deepening the kiss, as they began exploring one another…

The Present…

As Jae Kyung and Jun Pyo lie together bare-chested under the covers of her luxurious bed, she thought about that first time…

She hadn't expected it to happen when it did, nor as the result of a fight. But when she thought about it, it seemed fitting… She had come to terms with the fact that nothing about her relationship with Gu Jun Pyo was typical. After all, their first encounter began with an argument over a woman's shoe, of all things…

It hadn't taken much convincing to get Jun Pyo to stay this time, nor was she the one to initiate. In fact, Jun Pyo had given his affection willingly—even eagerly—tonight. She wasn't going to complain, yet there was still fear in her heart—fear that Jun Pyo was thinking of Jan Di again…

"I never thought we'd be here, Jun…together…like this…," Jae Kyung whispered, as she snuggled against his broad chest. He said nothing but simply stroked her soft, onyx hair. The gesture was surprisingly tender, and he was surprisingly calm…

"I never thought this would happen, that we would get another chance…," she spoke wistfully.

He remained silent, his arm loosely draped across her back.

"Do you know how my heart was aching when I objected to our wedding?" she inadvertently squeezed him tighter. "It had to be done, and I was happy to do it…for you and for Jan Di…but it hurt… It hurt so bad… And then, do you know who painful it was that night for me, knowing you were with Jan Di…in our wedding suite?"

Jun Pyo tightened his mouth.

"Again, I was happy that I could bring you two together, for your sakes, because I loved you both dearly…but it was driving me crazy to think about you and Jan Di…being there…alone together… My mind was running wild that night…"

Jun Pyo released a sigh. "It meant a lot that you did that. And nothing happened with Jan Di that night."

Jae Kyung's lips twitched into a relieved smile. "You know, when I got on that plane for New York after our almost-wedding, I thought I'd never see you again… Well, I thought maybe that I'd see you at your wedding to Jan Di. She and I promised to remain friends, so I assumed I'd be invited to the wedding…"

"I could hardly believe my eyes when I saw you in that airport. I thought I was dreaming… And when you told me what happened… Well, at first, I was disappointed that you were no longer with Jan Di, but when I thought about it, I became hopeful. Because I thought that maybe it was Fate… Maybe Fate was giving us a second chance…"

She expected him to berate her for being foolish, but still, he said nothing—and only held her tighter.

. . .

"Are you happy, Jun?" she asked after a moment.

Jun Pyo paused to consider before responding, "Yes."

But Jae Kyung wasn't entirely convinced. "Really?"

"Yes, really."

"No regrets?"

"No, now stop talking so much!"

Jae Kyung scoffed. "Psshh, you really need to learn some—"

But she couldn't finish what she was saying because she was silenced by Jun Pyo's kiss—the one sure way he knew of shutting her up.

. . .

The next morning, Jae Kyung dressed for an early morning meeting in her master bathroom. She adjusted her high collar and took a last look in the mirror. Before leaving, she stopped by her bedside to look upon her handsome fiancé. He was sleeping soundly—and lightly snoring. He murmured something unintelligible in his sleep. And Jae Kyung smiled. Deciding to let him sleep there, she leaned forward and brushed aside a rogue curl that had fallen across his forehead. Then, she placed a gentle kiss upon his lips. He stirred but didn't wake. "Sleep well, Jun," she whispered before leaving her penthouse.

It was two weeks until Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung's wedding, and Jan Di had just been to Jae Kyung's place to take a look at her wedding dress. She was once again wearing Madam Kang's dress, and the moment was dripping with déjà vu. But despite some of the unpleasant memories it brought back, the moment was nice. And this time, Jan Di could truly be happy for her friend.

Seeing Jae Kyung in her wedding dress had gotten Jan Di thinking about her own dress. She had been so busy with helping Jae Kyung that she hadn't thought much about planning her own. There was still plenty of time, though. Perhaps it was even too soon to be looking at wedding dresses, but Ga Eul had convinced her otherwise. She'd said that a girl could never start too early and that a lot went into planning a wedding, which was why people got engaged so far in advance.

It made sense.

Currently, Jan Di sat on the cream-colored couch in the living room of the Yoon abode with a stack of bridal magazines before her. She released a small sigh as she thumbed through its pristine pages—just waiting for one of the snowy white garments to magically jump out at her. Wasn't there supposed to be some sort of mystical feeling that a bride gets when she finds her dress? Yet she'd looked through the entire stack already and hadn't gotten that feeling…

She still hadn't worked up the courage to go to an actual store, mainly because she had no money and would only be embarrassed… Oh, she knew that she could ask Ji Hoo or Grandfather—and of course, they were the ones paying for the wedding, since her parents were basically broke—but Jan Di wanted to be able to say that she bought at least one thing for her special day. That way, she could keep some pride…

But Jan Di was quickly reaching the point where she could no longer look. She had terms like A-Line, Ball Gown, organza and tulle—ones she'd never even heard of before—stuck in her head. She had images of bridal gowns dancing around, haunting her mind—like vicious little poltergeists taunting her that she would never be able to find a nice dress that she could afford.

Maybe it was time to go to a bridal shop. Maybe trying them on was the key. She could take Ga Eul and Jae Kyung Unnie with her, and she could say that she is just looking... Maybe, somehow, being in the midst of a sea of white she'd find the perfect one.

But it really wasn't that big of a deal, was it? What did it matter what she wore? Then again, she wanted to look beautiful for Ji Hoo on their wedding day. She knew that she wasn't much to look at on a daily basis, but on this day, she wished to take his breath away—or at least be someone he could be proud to stand up next to.

When Ji Hoo walked in, Jan Di was on the couch in her sweats, and she had her nose buried in a magazine. He smiled and greeted her upon entry, but she didn't seem to notice his presence. So, he made his way over to her.

Suddenly, Ji Hoo was behind Jan Di, gently resting his hands upon her shoulders. "Have you chosen one yet?" he purred in her ear.

When Jan Di felt Ji Hoo's touch, she gasped and jumped nearly a mile, dropping her magazine in the process.

"You're jumpy, my otter," Ji Hoo teased.

Jan Di gave an awkward laugh.

And he gifted her with his luminous smile. Upon noticing the fallen magazine, he bent to pick it up. It was still opened to the page she'd been on. "Here," he handed it to her.

Returning to her senses, Jan Di snatched it away and hid it behind her back. "Ji Hoo-yah, you can't see this!"

"Why not? Maybe I want to be part of the process."

Jan Di shook her head at him. "No, Ji Hoo-yah," she chastised, "The husband-to-be can't see the wedding dress until the day of the wedding. It's bad luck."

"After all we've been through you're worried about bad luck?"

Jan Di gave him a sardonic smile. She supposed they had been through a lot since they'd known each other. "I guess you're right."

"But I'll respect your wishes," he said, placing a kiss upon the top of her head. "So, I'm not allowed to see any wedding dresses until the wedding, just in case it is the one you select?"

With a smirk, Jan Di nodded.

"As you wish, my otter." And he reached down to stroke Jan Di's cheek with the back of his knuckle.

With a gentle sigh, Jan Di leaned back against the couch cushion, resting her head against Ji Hoo's arm. "It's so hard, though, finding a dress…"

Ji Hoo leaned over the couch and began caressing her arm. He brought his lips down to her shoulder and placed a kiss there. "You know, I loved the one you wore for the wedding contest, my otter…," he breathed, as he tugged aside her hoodie and began placing soft kisses along the delicate flesh of her neck.

Jan Di inadvertently closed her eyes, as she enjoyed the sensation of his soft, moist lips sinking progressively deeper into her skin. Ji Hoo's tender caresses were exhilarating, and she felt that familiar warm, tingling sensation between her legs that she got every time he touched her…

When he hit the spot where her sternocleidomastoid muscle met her clavicle, Jan Di nearly whimpered with pleasure. And she had to force herself to be still.

"Ji…Hoo…," she breathed out, and he began massaging her shoulders. And Jan Di drifted off in her head.

"What about something like that…?" Ji Hoo cooed, continuing his firm yet delicate ministrations.

"Mmm…," was all she could utter in response.

. . .

Although it wasn't uncommon for a soon-to-be bride to be excited, Jan Di discovered that she was practically suffering from her anticipation.

It was so strange…

How was it that after all this time together—and seeing each other every day—that she could continue falling even more hopelessly in love with him? It was like there was no limit to it, no bottom to the pit she was plunging into… And every day, she found herself wanting him more and more…

. . .

When she returned from her reverie, Ji Hoo had gone off into his own world, too…

He raised his eyes skyward, as he pictured the day of the wedding contest. He could still see the dress so vividly in his mind. "I remember that the material was soft and thin, chiffon, I believe. It had thin straps and a short skirt in front, with a train in the back… I don't know the proper term, but there was some kind of crystal beading along the waist, straps, and neckline…," and Ji Hoo paused, recalling the sight of her that had taken his breath away.

It was ridiculous to think like this at the time, but somehow, he felt like he was looking at his future that day… But back then, he never dreamed they would be where they were now…

When Ji Hoo came back to reality, Jan Di was staring at him with the hint of a smile playing upon her lips. He placed a hand behind his neck. "Well, something like that… F4 may wear the latest designer fashions, but we aren't exactly up on Wedding Dress 101."

Despite the bad joke, Jan Di laughed. She rather enjoyed his dry humor sometimes, and her lips curled further upward. "That's actually not a bad description of it. You still remember all those little details, Ji Hoo-yah?" she asked, incredulous.

"Of course," and he flashed a brilliant smile. "My memory may not be photographic but when it comes to you, my beloved otter, somehow I remember every detail." Of course, it also helped that he still looked at their photos often.

"That's so sweet, Ji Hoo-yah," she said, as she craned her neck back to press her lips softly to his.

Tilting his head to the side, he captured her lips again in a slow, deep kiss. And Jan Di felt that familiar heat rising up from deep within her core.

It was then that Jan Di's phone rang…

Ji Hoo let out a groan of disappointment, and Jan Di quickly apologized. She pulled out her phone and looked at the screen. It was Jae Kyung. Jan Di's eyes shot to Ji Hoo, questioning whether she should take it.

With a sigh, Ji Hoo replied, "Go ahead."

Jan Di gave a nervous chuckle. "Sorry, I'll be quick."

"It's OK," and he placed a kiss on the top of her head before wandering off into the next room.

. . .

Jan Di composed herself before hitting the green button to begin a video chat with the heiress.

"Unnie, hello," and she waved at the smiling girl on the other end.

"Jan Di-ah! What have you been doing? I hope I didn't disturb you..."

"No, not at all," Jan Di laughed nervously, as she looked around for Ji Hoo. He'd wandered off into the next room.

"Good! So, Jan Di-ah, you're free this Saturday, right!"

Jan Di smiled and nodded. She actually was free that day, but the perky hotel princess always worded her requests in the form of statements. She never truly asked. It wasn't that she was impolite; it was just her personality.

"Yes, Unnie. Why?"

"Well, you're just going to love me!"

Jan Di smiled affectionately at her friend. "I do love you, Unnie."

With a laugh, Jae Kyung shook her head. "No, I mean you're really going to love me! Do you want to know why?"

"Yes, Unnie."

"Well, I got us tickets to an exclusive bridal show for this Saturday! For Ga Eul-ah, too! It'll be great! I know that everything is basically planned for mine, but we can get ideas for yours! You'll go, won't you? Mm? Say you'll go, Jan Di-ah, hmm, hmmm?"

Jan Di pursed her lips. Bridal shows weren't exactly her thing. But then again, she'd never been to one, either. Maybe it would be helpful in planning, and she could never resist the pleas of Ha Jae Kyung.

The corners of Jan Di's lips twitched into a smile. "Sure, Unnie. I'll go."

"Yay!" and Jae Kyung bounced up and down with phone in hand, distorting the image before Jan Di's eyes.

***To Be Concluded***

A/N: Next chapter, FINAL chapter. I mean it this time! That is, unless you guys really, really want a short epilogue, haha! Teaser: Will Jun Pyo actually go through with his marriage to Jae Kyung this time around? Jan Di prepares for her wedding and participates in another wedding contest, with a push and some help from her friends. Will everything go smoothly? Will everyone live happily ever after?