Wolves of the Pacific

by greenpeach20

In 1902, Renesmee Cullen grew tired of the tedious life of moving around with her family and decided to make the journey west as a mail order bride. Yet a chance encounter with a reddish brown wolf would change her life forever.

120. Chapter 120

Chapter 120

Winter of 1954 was approaching. Heather had initially been an eager guard of the house when it was night time, staying up later than she should wanting to make sure there wasn't an emergency, but eventually she just wasn't able to do it anymore and she stopped, making time alone easier for Kevin and Amber. By the time the first snow fell, Amber was pregnant as well. JJ was also able to get a month off so they could go back to the states for Christmas, but sadly that was where the good news would end. He'd put in the request for a transfer, but it was only approved for them to be sent to Korea. JJ wanted more than anything to adamantly refuse but he and Eun Mi still sat down together to talk about it.

"I know Korea is the last place you want to be," Eun Mi said, "But I would like it if we could stay there instead of Japan."

"I know," JJ groaned and rubbed his head. "I'm just not sure I'm comfortable having you and Jae Sun there. Jae Sun specifically. You'll probably be fine, but Jae Sun-"

"Is with me at all times," Eun Mi interrupted to point out. "And according to the transfer, we'll be closer to Seoul rather than the parallel."

"I know," JJ said and then sighed.

"After this, you retire and we go back to Washington for good," Eun Mi said. "I don't know when we'll come back to Korea. Or if we'll ever go back. Yoshiko has been lovely and she's made being here easier, but I don't want to be in Japan anymore."

"I know," JJ said. There was a brief silence before JJ finally nodded. "I'll take the transfer." Eun Mi smiled gently and went into his arms.

"Thank you," she said.

"Do you mind living on base or do you want to rent a house?" JJ asked.

"If we have to live on base, that's fine," Eun Mi smiled. "Have you found out where Yon is living?"

"I'm still looking into that," JJ said. "I'll make sure I know by the time we go to Korea."

"Okay," Eun Mi said.

As promised, JJ made a point to look into where Yon was living with the hopes that she and Eun Mi could be close while they were in Korea. Yoshiko insisted on throwing a goodbye party for Eun Mi and Lisa since Jared was retiring and was given the okay to return to Utah. Though she hated to admit it, Yoshiko had made staying in Japan loads easier for Eun Mi. Yoshiko surprised Eun Mi with a present that was actually from Akihiko of all people, but it was evidently for Jae Sun.

"I told Akihiko that you read his comics to Jae Sun every night and that he likes them a lot," Yoshiko explained, "so Akihiko made more for him."

"Did he?" Eun Mi asked as she opened the package. It was near fifty pages front to back of comics. Some were still about Koro-Koro and his adventures with 'American' but there were several other additions all based in Japanese folklore. They were highly detailed and all the Kanji was supplemented with Katakana right beside the character so it was easier to read. Yoshiko had gotten Eun Mi proficient in Katakana and Hiragana in about a day. "This was very sweet of him. I don't know what to say."

"I'll tell him you said thank you," Yoshiko reassured with a smile.

"Jae Sun, look," Eun Mi said to Jae sun and showed him all the new comics. "Yoshiko's big brother made more comics for you." Jae Sun had a bright smile on his face as Eun Mi showed him all the new comics that Akihiko had made for him.

"I'll make sure Akihiko knows Jae Sun loves them too," Yoshiko said with a smile. "Will you promise, when Corporal Dauer retires and you're returning home, to stop through Japan to visit?"

"I would like that," Eun Mi reassured and the two even hugged.

After the party, Eun Mi and JJ had to get their things packed and they were on a plane back to Washington around the first of December. Jae Sun reacted much the same way as he had before when they'd first been on a plane. The pressure change caused his ears to pop and he was screeching. Once they'd finished ascending, Eun Mi went to the back of the plan and did everything to help Jae Sun calm down and only returned to her seat once he had. When they'd gotten back on a new plane after a brief layover in Hawaii, she repeated the same process, desperately trying to calm Jae Sun down and returning to her seat once he had. The trip couldn't be over soon enough. When they finally landed, Suerro and Salem were there to pick them up from the airport.

"Welcome home, JJ," Salem said and the two hugged one another. "How was the flight?"

"A living nightmare," JJ said. "It's good to be back on the ground."

"How did Jae Sun like flying?" Salem asked.

"Hated it," JJ said. "So where's Birdie?"

"He's at home," Suerro said. "He's really excited to finally meet you. He kept the bug you sent Nesia and he wants to thank you for it."

"She didn't like it I gather?" JJ chuckled.

"Screamed bloody murder when she saw it," Salem chuckled. "Birdie loves it, though. He has it hanging above his bed in our room. Did you bring him any more mutant bugs?"

"I thought about getting him a Vietnamese centipede but I've been told that was a bad idea," JJ joked.

"JJ, take it from someone who has seen one of those things first hand: they're vicious. And they're poisonous!"

"Are Vietnamese centipedes common in Korea or something?" Salem asked.

"No. It's too cold for them," Eun Mi said. "They're jungle bugs. One of the officers in China kept one as a morbid pet. He called it a Chinese Red Head as I recall. He used to love making us all watch it eat a mouse. It's extremely aggressive and will eat anything it can overpower."

"Sound like it's right up Birdie's ally," Salem joked.

"I cannot recommend against that enough," Eun Mi protested. "Might I suggest a cat?"

"Mom's allergic to cats," JJ said. "Besides, a killer centipede is much more interesting a pet than a cat."

"At least you can pet the cat," Eun Mi mumbled. "A centipede is decorative at best. They're hardly 'cuddly'."

"Don't need to be," JJ said. Jae Sun sneezed suddenly, grabbing everyone's attention.

"Let's get to the car and drive back," Suerro said, "before Jae Sun catches a cold."

"He comes from hardier stock than that," JJ said, but they were already following Suerro to the car. Once they were back at the tribe, Suerro dropped them off at JJ's and Eun Mi's house so they could put away their luggage and get Jae Sun ready before coming over to Natalie's and Suerro's house. When they did arrive, Blu Jae was on the floor with Suerro and Nesia, but he looked at the door as soon as it opened.

"Go say hi to your brother," Suerro said to Blu Jae who got to his feet and went over to JJ. The boy still appeared no more than a toddler, but he'd certainly grown extremely fast. He was already at JJ's knee.

"So you're Birdie," JJ said and kneeled down to Blu Jae's level. "I heard you liked that Japanese Hornet I sent a whole lot more than Nesia did."

Blu Jae nodded to both, "I have it in my room."

"Yeah, so I've been told," JJ said. "You're a lot bigger than I thought you'd be."

"I grow really fast!" Blu Jae said.

"I can see that," JJ said and patted the boy's head. Then he said, "Come and meet your nephew," before picking Blu Jae up so he could meet Jae Sun. Blu Jae was barely bigger than the boy but was leagues ahead of Jae Sun developmentally. Blu Jae poked his nephew while Jae Sun tried to grab at his uncle until Natalie came over to intervene.

"Blu Jae, remember to be gentle. Jae Sun's just a baby," she said.

"Birdie's just a baby," JJ pointed out with a chuckle while Blu Jae crossed his arms.

"No I'm not," he said.

"You're not even a year old," JJ said and continued to tease. "You're actually younger than your nephew."

"I'm still bigger than him!" Blu Jae proclaimed and flexed his little arms as if to make a point.

"Whatever you say, kid," JJ said and ruffled the boy's hair. "So mom, I've got good news and bad news."

"Bad news first," Natalie said.

"I couldn't get transferred back to the states and I've agreed, albeit reluctantly," JJ glanced at Eun Mi who smiled lovingly, "to transfer us to Seoul."

"You're going back to Korea?" Suerro asked.

"Yeah," JJ said.

"What's the good news?" Natalie asked.

"It's only a year," JJ said. Natalie just stared at JJ a moment less than pleased with the answer but eventually just sighed heavily and went to the kitchen to make everyone coffee. While they waited for Natalie to make coffee, everyone else returned to the living room. JJ put down Blu Jae so he and Jae Sun could play under Eun Mi's supervision. "So," JJ said to Salem, "the Navy?"

"Yes, JJ, the Navy."

"Why?"

"I think it would be a good fit for me," Salem said. "Besides, I haven't signed up yet. Not until you're home for good."

"Planning to go on some squash buckling adventures? Loot British trade ships? Drink yourself sick at a coastal whorehouse?"

"I don't see why not," Salem said, going along with the joke. "I imagine we'll be leaving British ships alone seeing as they're an ally."

"That's a shame," JJ said. "I hear they have tea and spices you could steal."

"If our uncles' accounts of England is worth anything, it would be wrong to rob them of those spices," Salem said and then chuckled. "Maybe during the war, Germany should have dropped cookbooks on London."

"Would've accomplished the same thing," JJ said and then, a thought coming to his head, began to chuckle a little. "Can you imagine? Hundreds of German cookbooks dropped on London? Everyone's panicking until they see the books and then they're just offended?"

"'Cookbooks?'" Salem said with an exaggerated British accent. "'Are they implying something?'"

"Meanwhile, the Luftwaffe are flying away laughing their asses off," JJ said.

"That is until the British Army starts loading their cannons with black pudding and spotted dicks," Salem said and the two started laughing. "What are spotted dicks by the way?"

"A disease?" JJ answered and the two started laughing harder.

"You two are gross," Nesia sighed heavily. "It's a currant and lemon pudding. For the record, Grandpa Edward said he used to love it."

"Never took grandpa for swinging that way," Salem said and JJ laughed harder, beginning to cry a little.

Nesia rolled her eyes, "You two are unbelievable."

"You're not still mad at me for sending you a Hornet for your birthday, are you?" JJ teased.

"Who sends their little sister a bug for her birthday?!" Nesia yelled.

"Me," JJ said.

"I liked it," Blu Jae said.

"Thank you, Birdie. At least someone appreciates it when I send nice things," JJ said.

"It was a dead bug! Of all the things you could have sent," Nesia grumbled.

"So ungrateful," JJ said to Salem making him start laughing again while Nesia pouted.

"Alright, leave her be, JJ," Suerro said. Natalie finally joined them in the living room with everyone's coffee and they continued talking, though JJ and Salem returned to keeping their topics of conversation appropriate.

Back in Seattle, Anna and Levi had already decorated the house for Hanukkah though it was still some time away. Hanukkah would begin the 20th that year so while they were in Forks for the two days of Christmas Eve and day, they'd be bringing their Menorah so they could celebrate. Heather was very aware of Amber's new pregnancy, but she was a little unclear as to the 'how' of the matter.

"Mommy," Heather asked they Amber was tucking her in.

"Yes, Heather?"

"Where's the baby? You said you and daddy were having a baby."

"The baby's here," Amber said, pointing at her lower stomach. "The baby's growing right now and won't be out for another 8-9 months."

"Why does it take so long?" Heather asked, beginning to poke at Amber's belly.

"Because the baby needs to be a certain size before its born," Amber said. "If I had the baby now, it would be no bigger than a pea."

"Really?" Heather asked in awe.

"Yes, really," Amber said, "So the baby needs to grow a little longer. Don't you worry, Heather. Your Uncle Kyle said that both me and Aunt Evie are due around June and July. The summer is a very good time to have a baby."

"Hm," Heather mumbled and poked one more time. "Baby brother," she said, "hurry and grow up okay?"

"Or baby sister," Amber said but Heather shook her head.

"Baby brother," Heather said. Amber smiled and kissed Heather's cheek.

"Get to sleep, Heather. I love you."

"I love you too, mommy," Heather said. Amber give Heather a kiss on the head and told her to get to bed before leaving her room and returning to her own. Kevin was still in the shower, so she went to bed and was ready to go right to sleep. She almost had when she felt the bed move and she could smell Kevin's fresh out of the shower smell. She smiled and sighed from it.

"Did I wake you?" Kevin asked.

"It's alright," she said and turned so she could be in Kevin's arms.

"Heather's in bed?" he asked.

"She is," Amber said. "She asked why we hadn't had a baby yet. I explained to her that the baby's still growing."

Kevin chuckled a little, "Getting impatient already, I see."

"She shares a lot of her traits with her father," Amber teased.

"Indeed she does," Kevin answered. "I'm sorry about that."

"I'm not," Amber said.

Kevin just smiled and gave Amber a kiss before the two of them fell asleep in each other's arms. Once it was the 20th, Amber, Kevin and Heather were at Anna's and Levi's house every evening for Hanukkah which would include a big dinner followed by lighting the appropriate number of candles while singing the right prayer. Embry joined them for the first few nights, but had to make sure he stayed at the tribe day before Christmas Eve. When it was Christmas Eve, they packed everything they needed and fitted themselves into Kevin's car so they could drive from Seattle to Forks.

As it was every year, the Cullen house was packed with family members sitting around the fireplace in the living room or in the music room or the kitchen and children playing outside. Once they'd arrived, Heather went straight outside to make a snow man with Evalynn and Embry. Kevin was finally able to see JJ and they started talking endlessly while Amber conversed mostly with Eun Mi and Evalina.

"Where's Kyle?" Amber asked.

"He's at the hospital," Evalina said. "He's working a usual day today and the evening shift tomorrow. We'll have nurses there round the clock."

"Seems like he never has time to breath," Amber said.

"Nope," Evalina said with a smile. "He's always busy and he's never been happier. He's spent decades trying to build that hospital and he's still on cloud nine."

"I bet he is," Amber smiled back. "Are you retiring or anything?"

"I don't plan to," Evalina said. "I'll take my maternity leave but as soon as I'm able to, I'll be returning to work."

"Same for me," Amber said and then looked at Eun Mi. "Did you plan to find work once Jae Sun's old enough? Or are you enjoying being a stay at home mom too much."

"I admit I love being a house wife," Eun Mi said. "Compared to my life beforehand, it's liberating."

"I don't know if I've ever met anyone that called having a baby 'liberating'," Evalina teased.

"Trust me; for me it has been," Eun Mi said while she gently patted Jae Sun's tummy while he was on her lap.

"Are you planning to have more once JJ retires?"

"Yes," Eun Mi said. "JJ wants more and I'd love more too. It won't be until we can be back in Washington, though. We're making a point of that."

"That's a good idea," Amber agreed before rubbing Jae Sun's cheek only for him to try biting her finger with his little gums and two teeth that were coming in. "You're a nipper I see," Amber teased.

"You should see him when I give him Nurungji. He nips at it like he's been starving. We both know that's not true, though. Isn't that right, Jae Sun?" Eun Mi said. She repeated the question in Korean and Jae Sun giggled while she kissed his ear and neck to tickle him.

By the evening, Amber, Anna and Levi led everyone in the Hanukkah prayer and lighting the candles before having a big dinner together. By then, Kyle had finally joined them and was able to visit. When it was getting late, the younger children were put to bed while the older kids and adults stayed up together to talk before eventually going to bed themselves. The next morning, the adults were woken up by the kids demanding they begin Christmas morning. Esme was already downstairs getting breakfast ready for everyone that included pancakes and cinnamon rolls with lots of coffee and hot chocolate for the kids. Once they were all downstairs, the children were tasked with organizing all the gifts putting them with their intended recipients. Nesia received a multilevel present with four boxes all on top of one another and it was from JJ and Eun Mi.

"Any specific order I need to open this?" she asked JJ once she'd gotten to that present while they were opening their gifts.

"Just top to bottom," JJ said.

"And there's no hornet in here?" Nesia asked suspiciously.

"You have my word there is no Japanese Hornet in any of those boxes," JJ said and then he looked at Blu Jae. "You, on the other hand, I did get another hornet."

"Really?" Blu Jae asked eagerly and searched for the present that was labeled as being from JJ. Inside the box was indeed another Japanese Hornet even bigger than the first one he'd sent.

"That one was a queen," JJ said. "At least that's what the man that sold it to me said." Nesia scrunched her nose while Blu Jae admired his new bug already pinned into a bed behind a glass frame. Nesia opened the first box and inside was a little porcelain cat. The bottom of the cat was very chubby with the cat appearing to be standing on its hind legs with both its front paws by its ears in a waiving gesture, but the arms were stationary.

"Oh! A Maneki Neko," Nesia smiled, remembering the first one JJ had sent her years before. "It's so precious."

"JJ said you always wanted a cat and that you liked those. I hope it's alright that I got you a new one," Eun Mi smiled.

"That's absolutely fine," Nesia smiled and put the cat back in the box. "Have I told you? When I'm on my own, the first thing I'm going to do is adopt a cat."

"Good for you," Eun Mi smiled. "I love cats, but your brother decidedly feels very differently." JJ said nothing while Nesia giggled.

"You married him; not me," Nesia teased and then moved on to the next box. It was a porcelain tea kettle. It was mostly white but towards the top where the lid attached to the pot, there were three dimensional cherry blossoms attached. There were a few other blossoms on the pot, but the rest were painted on rather than part of the porcelain. "Oh, it's beautiful," Nesia smiled.

"Telling you now, the third box is full of loose tea," JJ said.

"Oh, now, I couldn't possibly use this pot," Nesia said, admiring it. "It's too beautiful."

"JJ picked that for you," Eun Mi said with a smile.

"You picked this out?" Nesia smiled at JJ.

"It made me think of you," JJ said. Nesia put the boxes on the table and went to hug JJ. "Don't thank us yet," JJ said as she hugged him. "You've got one more present to open."

"What is it?" Nesia asked as she went back to the couch.

"You'll have to open it and see," JJ smiled. With an eager smile, Nesia finally turned her attention to the fourth and final gift. As soon as she opened the box, her eyes bugged and she released a blood curdling scream tossing the box away from her while JJ burst into jubilant laughter. He stopped laughing, though, as soon as Eun Mi screamed too. "What?" JJ asked.

"그것은 중국 빨간 머리입니다!" (geugeos-eun jung-gug ppalgan meoliibnida!) Eun Mi screeched as Blu Jae approached the box with excitement.

"What?" JJ asked.

"I said Chinese Red Head!" Eun Mi screeched again.

"The salesman told me the locals call it Mukade," JJ chuckled.

"Mukade, Chinese Red Head, Vietnamese centipede; it has many names," Eun Mi answered, trying to calm down.

"They really get this big?" Blu Jae asked with excitement. The centipede in the display was easily 20 cm long.

"That's what the salesman told me," JJ said. "Same guy I got the Hornet Queen from."

"Neat," Blu Jae said as he examined the bug behind its glass case.

"At least someone appreciates the things I give 'em," JJ chuckled. "That was actually for you, but I couldn't resist making Nesia jump."

"You asshole!" Nesia yelled and threw a pillow at JJ's head. JJ only laughed harder. Salem came a little closer to look over his little brother's shoulder to see the bug.

"Jesus Christ, do the bugs get big enough to eat you in Asia?" Salem asked.

"Sure as shit seems that way sometimes," JJ said.

"Language, JJ," Natalie said sternly, still trying to catch her own breath from Nesia's scream startling her.

"You didn't get on Nesia's case for calling me an asshole," JJ pointed out.

"You deserved it," Natalie sighed. "That thing is dead, right?"

"Yes, mom, it's dead," JJ said. "For how big that thing is, I imagine it would have put up one hell of a fight if I tried taking it alive."

"Maybe the Koreans should have taken these into battle," Salem joked.

"They'd just as likely turn on us," Eun Mi muttered.

"Yes, I hear bugs don't make for very loyal soldiers to anything but their hive. Then again, these things are solitary aren't they?"

"Centipedes generally are," Edward said and looked right at JJ. "I can't believe you brought home a Vietnamese Centipede."

"Birdie likes it," JJ said with a shrug.

"Are there any other giant bugs like this in Asia?" Blu Jae asked.

"If I find them, I'll be sure to send them your way."

"Please don't," Natalie muttered and Suerro just chuckled a little while Blu Jae came over to show it to his father. He tried showing a few others, but most of his female younger cousins preferred to not look at the crawly creature, dead or otherwise.

JJ and Eun Mi stayed in Washington until mid-January when they had to leave for his next deployment. The flight was miserable since Jae Sun began crying to instant they were in the air, but Eun Mi was able to get him calmed down when he did. Eventually, they finally got to Korea and it took several hours to get to the base outside Seoul where he'd be stationed. Eun Mi assumed they were staying on base, but then JJ surprised her.

"I actually have a present for you," JJ said with a gentle smile once he'd finished checking in with Admin.

"A present?" Eun Mi asked. "If it's a bug or something, I may slap you."

JJ chuckled, "I can't guarantee that there aren't bugs, but I think we'll be in good hands more or less."

"I'm not sure I follow," Eun Mi said.

"I only meant our landlords seemed rather nice to me," JJ said with a wink and led Eun Mi with him to the car he'd rented. Eun Mi had thought it very strange that JJ had effectively leased the car for the duration of their time stationed in Korea, but now that it seemed they'd not be staying on base, it wasn't quite so odd.

"You've met our landlords?"

"Once or twice," JJ shrugged. "It's a bit remote, but I didn't figure you'd mind. We're in a house that's near a rice paddy actually. The landlord owns a small percentage of it as it turns out."

"Really?" Eun Mi asked. "Will they let me have a garden?"

"I can't imagine why not," JJ smiled.

He'd not been kidding about the area being a little remote. It took them 45 minutes to get from the base to the tiny town JJ said they'd be staying. The landscape was covered in snow, so there weren't very many farmers out working save for a small house that appeared to have livestock. JJ eventually stopped in front of a tiny little house. It was a very traditional, very old house. Eun Mi could tell in an instant. The doors were bamboo, the roof's tips curved slightly upward, there were already clay pots outside that were covered in snow and there appeared to be a large space for a garden.

"Is this it?" Eun Mi asked, getting a little teary eyed.

"Yeah," JJ said. "Do you like it."

"I love it," she nearly cried and got out of the car immediately, Jae Sun in her arms, and started to approach the house. As silly as it sounded, she was tempted to beg that they keep the house and just live in Korea, but she knew he'd say no.

Eun Mi opened the front door, sliding the door open and stepped inside. She took a second to kick off her shoes before going over the threshold into the house in bare feet. The floor was colt, but she didn't care. She'd get slippers stationed at the front door once she had a chance. It was a darling little house that appeared freshly cleaned and there was green everywhere: new life and new beginnings. It brought Eun Mi a lot of comfort. There was a little kitchen that was a little more up to date with a fridge and a sink with loads of counter space. No stove. JJ would gripe a little but that was fine. Eun Mi hardly used their stove at home. The kitchen was open with a clear view of what was the dining space and near the kitchen was a hallway that led to a few rooms. She went to investigate, opening the door to the first room to find a Buddhist shrine that already had appropriate incense burning which took her by surprise.

"Did our landlords prepare the house for us or something?" Eun Mi asked with a smile when JJ had finally caught up with her. He'd even remembered to take off his shoes before he came inside which made Eun Mi smile. He sometimes had a habit of forgetting.

"You could say they were extremely eager for our arrival," JJ smiled back. "I'll show you Jae Sun's room."

JJ led Eun Mi to the next room which also slid open gracefully. It was lined with the same traditional flooring and there were already baby toys, a little bed and anything else Jae Sun would need. Then JJ led Eun Mi to the door leading to a bathroom that had modern plumbing with a huge tub and shower head that she knew JJ would love and then finally he led her to the final door in the hallway. It was the largest room in the house but was still very modest and there was already a little futon bed that was folded up until they were ready to use it.

"I know how much you hated that apartment back on base," JJ said and wrapped his arms around her waist bringing her back to his chest. "Even if we'll only be here for the year, I wanted to make it up to you."

"It's perfect," Eun Mi smiled and turned to look at JJ. "Thank you." JJ smiled at her and leaned down so they could share a kiss with Jae Sun making little noises between them. Almost as soon as they'd began to kiss, they were interrupted.

"손님이있을 때 키스하는 것이 무례하다는 것을 모르는가?" (sonnim-iiss-eul ttae kiseuhaneun geos-i mulyehadaneun geos-eul moleuneunga?/Don't you know it's rude to kiss when you have guests?). Eun Mi recognized the voice instantly and pulled away from JJ to see Yon in the hallway smiling.

"Yon!" Eun Mi said and went right to her so the two could hug.

"You could knock, Yon," JJ joked.

"You rent this place from me, remember?" Yon said.

"You're our landlord?" Eun Mi said.

"My husband and I," Yon said.

"I managed to get in contact with Yon around when I'd gotten the stationing here in Korea and when I told her we were coming back, she insisted she could rent a house to us for a good price so long as I didn't mind the drive to base," JJ said. "I told her so long as you like the house that it was fine by me."

"It's so good to see you," Eun Mi smiled.

"And you too," Yon smiled back and then finally looked at Jae Sun. "And who is this handsome young man?" Yon bent down a little so she could look at the boy.

"Jae Sun," Eun Mi said.

"So you're the little thing that made Eun Mi have to run away to America," Yon teased and gently rubbed her hand over Jae Sun's tiny cheek. "May I hold him?"

"Of course," Eun Mi said and handed Jae Sun over to Yon. Jae Sun's attention stayed on Eun Mi until Yon began her motherese to the baby.

"그런 잘 생긴 청년," (geuleon jal saeng-gin cheongnyeon/Such a handsome young man) Yon praised with a bright smile. She was very pleased to notice that Jae Sun responded to her with a big smile right back at her and a small wave of his little arms. She continued to coo to the baby while swaying back and forth. "그가 태어 났을 때?" (geuga taeeo nass-eul ttae?/When was he born?).

"12 월 25 일," (Shibee-wol seumul daseos il/ December 25th) Eun Mi answered.

"Oh no," Yon giggled and looked at Jae Sun sympathetically. "That's a National Holiday in America isn't it?"

"It's Christmas Day," JJ said.

"Oh, you poor dear," Yon giggled again while she tickled Jae Sun's chin. Jae Sun giggled and then Yon kissed his little cheek. "He's beautiful, Eun Mi."

"He is," Eun Mi smiled and took Jae Sun back into her arms.

"Ga ga," Jae Sun said pointing at Yon.

"Is he alright?"

"He's trying to call you grandma," JJ chuckled a little. "He's started calling a lot of people that to be fair, but he started saying that when my mom was trying to get him to say grandma."

"I'm trying to make him say 'Umma'," Eun Mi said. "So far he can say Oo. So whenever he wants me he just does that."

"Is that so?" Yon giggled and then turned her attention back to Jae Sun. "Halmi," she said, using the children's shortened word for grandma. Jae Sun didn't answer with a word. Rather he just made a noise. "Halmi," Yon repeated.

"Haaaaaa," Jae Sun finally managed and Yon giggled.

"You will learn, Jae Sun," she smiled and kissed his cheek. "And for the record, I would be honored for him to call me grandma. Even if I'm only 12 years your senior," Yon said with a smile to Eun Mi.

"You're welcome to tell him to call you Aunt," JJ joked.

"No," Yon smiled. "I think grandma will do just fine. So, Eun Mi, how do you like the house?"

"It's wonderful, Yon. I love it," Eun Mi said. "Leagues beyond the little apartment we stayed in on Base in Japan."

"Yes, JJ told me all about how much you loved that place," Yon joked. "It's a little too cold to right now, but once spring comes, the house is surrounded by respectable garden space and a place to put kimchi for fermenting. I have winter kimchi ready now if you'd like to use it."

"남편은 물고기를 먹지 않습니다," (nampyeon-eun mulgogileul meogji anhseubnida/ My husband doesn't eat fish) Eun Mi said. "Remember?"

"Oh, yes, I forgot," Yon sighed. "Still so finicky."

"What's wrong?" JJ asked.

"Oh, nothing," Yon said. "You may have to go without until spring when we can start growing the cabbage again."

"We'll survive," Eun Mi smiled. "Worst case scenario, I can go into Seoul with JJ one day and get supplies."

"I'll go with you," Yon reassured. "Until then, have dinner with Tae Woon and I tonight. You never have gotten to meet my husband have you?"

"Only his picture," Eun Mi said. "Does he know about Terry?" Eun Mi teased.

"Oh, Eun Mi, nothing ever happened between me and that grumpy man. There's nothing to tell Tae Woon."

"If you promise," Eun Mi smiled. "Speaking of; is he still in Korea?"

"Oh, no, he's been transferred. I don't know if he's returned to America but I know he's no longer in Korea."

"That's a shame," Eun Mi said. "I'd love to see him again."

"I'll look into it," JJ promised with a smile. "Maybe he'll have a place for us to rent in Alabama," he joked.

"Terry isn't so nice as me," Yon said. "And her certainly wouldn't make the rent so generous."

"Of which I'm very appreciative," JJ smiled. "So where do you and your husband live? What did you say his name is?"

"Tae Woon," Yon said. "We live up the road so if you ever want to visit we'll be happy for the company. I'd suggest going over, but I imagine you want to get acquainted with your new house."

"Indeed I do," Eun Mi smiled.

Yon and Eun Mi went to the kitchen together with Jae Sun while JJ stepped outside to see their yard. He'd only seen one picture that Yon had sent and it was blurry and in black and white. Seeing the house in person was much better and it was growing on him. It reminded him of home: quiet, calm, small community where everyone knew everyone. He was actually looking forward to it now. He could hear the natural sounds from the expanse with some trees where there were birds and small animals. He could hear chickens from a mile away from one of their neighbors' chicken coops. Even the drive into the country was the most relaxing drive he'd ever been on. On the way to the house, there were large hills and varying elevations in the landscape with the cool air.

"Might not have hated being here so much if this had been what we got," JJ said to himself while looking out onto the landscape. He could picture himself drinking his coffee in the morning and sitting out there with Eun Mi and their sun staring into the stars at night.

"JJ," Eun Mi's voice came from inside and JJ turned to look at her. "Yon is going back to her house to get some things for dinner. She's going to cook for us."

"That's very sweet of her," JJ said.

"So what do you think of this place?"

"It's better than the parallel," JJ said, half serious half joking.

"I really love it here," Eun Mi said. "I love our home in Washington, but this…."

"It's like the good old days?" JJ asked.

"The best parts of my youth," Eun Mi stipulated. "It feels like when my grandpa and mother were alive and we all shared a tiny hut together. Aside of the constant presence of the Japanese, those were the happiest days of my life. This feels like I have it again."

"I'm glad to hear it," JJ said and opened his arm to her so she and Jae Sun could come over to him. He wrapped his arm around Eun Mi's shoulder so they could stare out onto the fields.

Eun Mi laid her head against JJ's chest while Jae Sun kept looking around himself taking in the sites. Of course, for Jae Sun, it didn't quite hold the gravity that it did for Eun Mi. Eun Mi started petting Jae Sun's head and then gave him a little kiss.

"Do you like our new home, Jae Sun?" Eun Mi asked, but Jae Sun didn't give more than a long sound of utterance that didn't form a real word. Eun Mi kissed him again and looked back out. "사랑해요," (Sarang Haeyo) Eun Mi finally whispered to JJ.

"Relax, Eun Mi, it's not a contest," JJ teased and the two shared a laugh. "I love you too."

The two of them stayed outside, winter cold be damned, until Yon finally returned with all the food she'd need to prepare dinner. She explained her husband would join them by the time dinner was ready and got right to work with Eun Mi helping her. JJ stayed on the floor of the living room in view of the kitchen playing with Jae Sun who was standing and walking around albeit a little wobbly. Despite only being a little over a year, Jae Sun was already tall for his age. When friends in Forks had seen Eun Mi holding the boy, they simply couldn't believe that little guy had been brought into the world by such a tiny woman.

As Yon had said he would, her husband knocked on the door and let himself inside stating who he was and taking off his shoes only to be surprised there were no slippers. Yon went to the door to welcome him and the two spoke a moment while JJ picked up Jae Sun to walk over to the door. Eun Mi made sure it was safe to do so and then left the kitchen to greet Tae Woon as well.

"You are Mun Tae Woon?" JJ asked the man.

"Yes," he answered in a thick accent. "American? Corporal Dauer? You are survivor of North Korea camp? My wife tell me."

"Yes, sir," JJ said and extended a hand so the two could shake. "It's a pleasure to meet you, sir."

"Pleasure," Tae Woon said and bowed. JJ bowed a little as did Eun Mi.

"안녕하세요, 문 선생님," (annyeonghaseyo, mun seonsaengnim / Good evening Mr. Mun) Eun Mi said as she bowed and then returned upright. "내 이름은 은미 다우어. 네 아내와 나는 M.A.S.H에서 함께 일했다." (nae ileum-eun Eun Mi daueo. ne anaewa naneun M.A.S.H eseo hamkke ilhaessda/ My name is Eun Mi Dauer. Your wife and I used to work together at the M.A.S.H.)

"예, 내 아내가 내게 당신에 대해 모두 말 했어요," (ye, nae anaega naege dangsin-e daehae modu mal haess-eoyo/ Yes my wife has told me all about you) Tae Woon said. "그녀는 당신이 우리 자신의 딸인 것처럼 당신을 말합니다." (geunyeoneun dangsin-i uli jasin-ui ttal-in geoscheoleom dangsin-eul malhabnida/ She speaks of you as though you were our own daughter). There was a slightly sorrowful tone to his voice when he said that, but then Tae Woon looked at Jae Sun and smiled. "이 사람이 당신 아들인가요?" (i salam-i dangsin adeul-ingayo/ Is this your son?).

Eun Mi nodded, "Jae Sun."

"그는 잘 생긴 어린 소년이야," (geuneun jal saeng-gin eolin sonyeon-iya/ He's a handsome little boy) Tae Woon said and then looked at JJ. "Can I hold?"

"Sure," JJ said and handed Jae Sun over to Tae Woon who smiled and started bouncing Jae Sun up and down on his hip making Jae Sun giggle.

"그는 몇 살입니까?" (geuneun myeoch sal-ibnikka/How old is he?)

"그는 방금 하나를 돌 렸어," (geuneun bang-geum hanaleul dol lyeoss-eo/ He just turned one) Eun Mi said.

"하나?" (Hana/One?) Tae Woon asked, confused.

"그들은 아기가 태어날 때부터 나이를 계산합니다," (geudeul-eun agiga taeeonal ttaebuteo naileul gyesanhabnida/ They count age from the time the baby is born) Yon explained.

"Oh," Tae Woon said, "예, 잊었습니다. 그는 나이에 비해 너무 커요!" (ye, ij-eossseubnida. geuneun naie bihae neomu keoyo! / Yes, I forgot. He's so big for his age!)

"그는 아버지와 흡사하다," (geuneun abeojiwa heubsahada/ He resembles his father) Eun Mi smiled.

"사실입니다," (sasil-ibnida / That's true) Tae Woon chuckled. "Have you always been so big, Corporal?"

"Yes, sir, I was born this tall. Mom had one hell of a time bringing me into this world," JJ joked and Tae Woon chuckled with him.

"I am sure," Tae Woon said and then looked at Yon. "저녁 준비 됐어?" (jeonyeog junbi dwaess-eo/ Is dinner ready?)

"거의," (geoui/almost) Yon said and took Jae Sun. "할머니가 할아버지의 알을 만들 수 있도록 도와주세요," (halmeoniga hal-abeojiui al-eul mandeul su issdolog dowajuseyo / You can help grandma make grandpa's egg) Yon smiled at the little boy and then retreated to the kitchen to make the poached egg.

"할아버지?!" (hal-abeoji /Grandpa?!) Tae Woon said.

"Don't be so crabby," Yon said to her husband. "I think Grandpa Tae Woon and Grandma Yon have a nice ring to it."

"I can always make sure Jae Sun calls you by your name if you want," JJ said.

"No," Tae Woon sighed. "Yon say it alright. It alright."

"Come inside and relax," JJ offered and walked with Tae Woon to the tiny dining table that was close to the ground. "So do you and Yon have children?"

"We had daughter," Tae Woon said mournfully.

"Had?"

"Bam," Tae Woon said. "She die young. Sickness."

"I'm so sorry," JJ said.

"She die before war. Many year ago," Tae Woon said. "Bam wonderful little girl. She die too young."

"I'm very sorry," JJ said again and patted the man's back.

"You take good care of son," Tae Woon said. "Child precious thing. To lose hurt very much."

"You can count on it," JJ said. Desperate to change the subject, JJ asked, "So what do you do for a living? Now that the war is over I mean?"

While Tae Woon told JJ about being a rice farmer/seller, Yon and Eun Mi were in the kitchen working on the poached egg. Since Jae Sun was the youngest, Eun Mi helped the boy hold the ladle with the egg above the hot broth. Sesame oil coated the bottom of the ladle so the egg would come off once cooked. It also gave the egg more flavor. Having overheard the conversation, Eun Mi glanced at Yon who was focused on green onions being chopped.

"I didn't know you had a daughter," Eun Mi said.

"She died a long time ago," Yon said remorsefully. "She was very sick. We don't know what it was exactly. One day she was fine and then she started coughing a lot. Then she was achy and couldn't get out of bed. The doctors weren't sure what was wrong; only that we needed to mourn and prepare for her loss. It was very hard."

"I'm so sorry," Eun Mi said. "You don't have any pictures of her?"

"They're at our home," Yon said. "I had one in my drawer when we were at the M.A.S.H. but I avoided looking at it as much as possible. It still brings me great pain to look at her picture." Eun Mi put a phantom hand on Yon's shoulder. She was staring at the cutting board and didn't notice thankfully, but Eun Mi left the hand there regardless. "She was only 9 when she died."

"Far too young," Eun Mi agreed.

"I could never bear the thought of risking the loss of another child, especially when the war started, so we never tried having another child. I prefer it that way." Yon looked at Eun Mi and finally smiled a little putting her hand on Eun Mi's cheek. After that brief moment, Yon took her hand away and returned to chopping. Eun Mi did the same and focused on helping Jae Sun hold the ladle until the Suran was finished.

Once everything was finished, Eun Mi and Yon brought the food to the table and the four of them ate together. To deflect any attention from Eun Mi not eating, she did her best to have Jae Sun eat solid food, starting with his favorite: nurungji. Tae Woon joked that, typically, he was given the honor of eating the nurungji, but since the boy loved it so much and since he already had his poached egg, he would forgive it. Jae Sun did try to eat said poached egg when Tae Woon held it close, but he pulled it away and shook his head.

"아니, 아니, 재선," (Ani, ani Jae Sun /No, no, Jae Sun) Tae Woon said. "아버지와 할아버지 만이 수란을 먹을 수 있습니다." (abeojiwa hal-abeoji man-i Suran-eul meog-eul su issseubnida/ Only fathers and grandfathers can eat Suran).

"What did he say?" JJ asked Eun Mi.

"He told Jae Sun that only fathers and grandpas are allowed to eat Suran," Eun Mi said.

"Is that a thing?" JJ asked with a light chuckle and Eun Mi nodded. "The youngest always holds the ladle to poach the egg and only grandpa or father is allowed to eat it. Of course, had I liked eggs, I'm sure my grandpa would have shared it with me."

"If only you liked eggs," JJ said with a small wink and Eun Mi smiled. She rescued the ball of toasted rice from falling to the floor when Jae Sun dropped it and held it up for him so he could try chewing with his newly forming little teeth.

Tae Woon and Yon stayed at their house for a few more hours before finally leaving for the night after the dishes were all cleaned and they'd had tea together. Once they'd left, Eun Mi drew them a bath while JJ got a head start on a shower. The hot water was welcome. Eun Mi had to get the tub water hot the old fashioned way: boiling several gallons of water and tempering it with cold snow and cold water until the water was at just the right temperature. Once it was and they'd all three showered, the three of them got into the tub together and just relaxed.

"Didn't take that long to get hot water in the tub back home," JJ joked while Eun Mi cuddled against JJ with Jae Sun in her arms splashing and playing with the water.

"It's how I used to have to do it when I was a girl," Eun Mi smiled. "We used to have a giant wooden bucket in our back yard away from the garden and it would take hours to fill it. We always took a bath together to save time and water."

"So there is practicality to the madness," JJ teased. "In the old days, it used to be dad always got the first bath and the babies bathed last. There's a saying about not losing a baby in the tub and that's where the expression came from. By the time the babies got their baths, the water was so dirty sometimes it was black."

"That's disgusting," Eun Mi scrunched her nose.

"We were very fortunate in that we could drain water between showers," JJ said. "And before that, everyone would bath in his pond near the tribe. In the winter, everyone would need to do rag baths instead."

"How lucky we are for running water and indoor plumbing in this day and age," Eun Mi smiled.

"Maybe not entirely in this house, but what does run on plumbing works fine," JJ said and chuckled when Eun Mi gently hit his chest.

"I like it," Eun Mi said.

"Do you really?" JJ asked.

"I do."

"Good," JJ said and kissed her head. "Consider it my thank you for putting up with Japan for a year." Eun Mi smiled and snuggled closer up to JJ while Jae Sun insisted on trying to waddle in the tub. He wasn't quite tall enough to keep his head above the water so Eun Mi kept a pair of invisible hands under his arms so she could carry him while he played. "He'll be running in no time at this rate," JJ smiled.

"He's definitely trying," Eun Mi said. "He's growing up too fast already."

"Yeah, babies do that," JJ said. "How about, when we get back to Washington for good, we try for another baby? Maybe we'll get a girl next time."

"I would love a girl," Eun Mi smiled. "Natalie says your father had wanted a lot of children. She said he would 'joke' about having ten and Natalie was never uncertain that he wasn't being completely serious."

"If dad had had his way, he and mom would have produced a small army between them," JJ said, thinking fondly back on his father. "I would have been the oldest of 20 or more I'm sure."

"According to your mother, she would have put her foot down at four," Eun Mi said. "I may be inclined to agree."

"That's fair," JJ said with a shrug. "I'm not sure how many I'd want. Jae Sun's plenty for the time being." Eun Mi smiled as she watched Jae Sun swim through the water with her help.

"He really has your smile," Eun Mi said more so to herself than to JJ.

"He has my dad's smile," JJ smiled back. "I'm just lucky enough that I got dad's smile and I could pass it on to our son."

"Regardless," Eun Mi said with a smile. Jae Sun kept slashing the water and his little laugh and squeaks were infectious.

They stayed in the tub longer than they typically would letting Jae Sun continue to play with the hope that he would soon tucker himself out so he'd sleep through the night. When Jae Sun had finally calmed down, they got out of the tub and JJ worried about draining it while Eun Mi got Jae Sun in his pajamas and ready for bed. She and Yon would be going into town the next day for some things and she'd promised to help Eun Mi unpack while JJ was at the base. She'd be happy to have all their thins put away and situated. Once Jae Sun was dressed, she covered him in lots of blankets to make sure that he was warm.

She stayed by his tiny bedside reading the comics to him and showing him the pictures until Jae Sun finally fell asleep. She kissed his little cheek and kept the sliding door slightly ajar so she could hear him if he whimpered or cried for her. By the time she got to their bedroom, JJ had already rolled out the futon and was under the heavy blankets. Eun Mi put away the towel she was still wearing and put on her nightgown before crawling into the futon with JJ.

"I still don't like sleeping on the ground," JJ said when Eun Mi snuggled up to him. "Even when it was a shitty bunk at the M.A.S.H, being on a bed always made me feel better."

"I don't know if Yon and I would be able to find a bed frame in town," Eun Mi said. "That's something I might have to get in the city."

"If it's too much money then don't worry about it," JJ said. "I can deal with a futon for a year. Whoever Yon and Tae Woon rent this place out to next can do as they please as far as choice of bedding."

Eun Mi didn't say anything. Rather she snuggled up to JJ and the two fell asleep in each other's arms. They woke up to Jae Sun nudging Eun Mi's shoulder after he'd managed to get out of his bed and wander to their room. He was doing his best to say he was hungry and was even whimpering a little, but he couldn't manage to say the full word and just repeated Ooo and Huuh over and over until Eun Mi and JJ woke up. JJ had to make sure he left early to reach the base, so almost as soon as they were awake, JJ got dressed and left for the day, giving Eun Mi and Jae Sun a kiss before he left and promising to see them when he returned home. When Yon finally arrived at the house, she arrived to Eun Mi on the floor with Jae Sun in her lap sucking on some nurungji now that he'd had his milk.

"Haaaaa," Jae Sun managed when he saw Yon and dropped his snack. Thankfully, Eun Mi caught it before it went to the floor and Jae Sun waddled over to Yon who greeted the boy just as eagerly.

Back in Washington, Amber and Evalina became frequent visitors to one another. They were progressing at virtually the exact same rate so they would often see Kyle for checkups around the same time. Now that Amber was showing at least a little, Heather would eagerly touch Amber's swollen belly in an attempt to make the baby do something. She remained convinced she was having a little brother and Evalynn also insisted she was having a little brother.

"If one of us has a girl, do you think they'll be disappointed?" Evalina asked while the two were eating Evalina's Anginette cookies together. It was Sunday afternoon and Amber had just returned home from the Synagogue with her parents. Heather was still in her Sunday best playing outside with Evalynn.

"I think they'll get over it eventually," Amber said. "If this next one is a girl, Kevin and I can always try again."

"Boy or girl, Kyle wants this to be the last," Evalina said. "If we have a boy, I won't mind that. I think a boy and a girl are a suitable contribution to society."

"Indeed it is," Amber giggled. "I would like a boy, but I don't want Heather to be disappointed if we have another girl. You said a boy is Caleb, but what about a girl?"

"Kathrynn if it's a girl," Evalina said. "What about you?"

"Lilianna after my grandma," Amber said.

"She didn't….."

"No," Amber said. "She passed away before we moved to Berlin." Amber smiled when a fond memory came to mind. "I remember one time I was helping her make spätzle. I saw a mouse in the kitchen and started crying. She just grabbed a broom and started sweeping that poor mouse out of the house saying 'Verschwinde!' over and over again." (Away/shoo/scat) Amber giggled a little. "I felt so bad for that poor mouse. He was just eating a bit of barley I'd dropped on the floor. It was really my own fault we had a mouse."

"We used to get mice in the castle sometimes. We'd always just catch them and send them to a field outside the walls."

"Doomed the poor little guys to death probably," Amber teased.

"Only if they got caught by a bird or a fox," Evalina said. "We can't exactly change the circle of life now can we?" Amber smiled and ate a lemon cookie.

"One of these days, you and Kyle should go to Naples," Amber said. "Lord knows the two of you have a summer home there you don't use."

"Well, technically, it was one of Aro's properties. Besides, it's not going unused. Alphonse is living there. My parents are living in Rome. I tell you, rejoining the orchestra has been wonderful for daddy. The man truly is happiest with a violin in his hand and an adoring audience."

"Has he made it to first violinist?"

"No, I don't imagine he will. Not any time soon at least. The current first violinist is still very much engrained in the position. Though I'm sure if he has the opportunity to become first violinist somewhere, he'll gladly try out."

"You and your brother don't play any instruments do you?"

"Nowhere near the proficiency our parents do," Evalina said. "Daddy plays the violin and mom can ply the harp some, but it's not her passion. Aro used to insist we needed to learn SOMETHING if only to keep ourselves busy, so I gravitated to sculpting, but I wasn't very good. Have you ever done sculpting?"

"Very briefly," Amber said. "When I'd attended university, I was able to take an art class that covered sculpting but I far preferred painting. My instructor preferred me painting too I dare say."

"And that was in Berlin, right?"

"Right," Amber nodded.

"I remember enjoying Berlin when we'd all gone there as a family once," Evalina said. "Moscow was my favorite, though. I wish we could go back someday but I don't know how they'd take to an American being there."

"You can always tell them you're Italian," Amber said and they smiled. "It's not a lie."

"That is true: it's not a lie," Evalina giggled. "So how have you been feeling?"

"Normal," Amber said. "Feeling a little bloated, but normal otherwise."

"That's not so unusual, but then you and I both already know that. Are you and Kevin going to California this summer?"

"It'll be closer to August," Amber said. "We won't travel until the baby's born. Then next year Kevin will be spending a few months in New York. I'll spend a month there with him and bring the children, but I can't be there the whole time like before. Mom needs me there to carve, especially during the summer."

"You're already getting orders in for summer weddings this year aren't you?"

"In droves," Amber said. "We're having another big boom what with so many troops coming home from Korea. Nothing puts love in the air and makes wedding bells ring like Johnny marching home."

"Have I mentioned the baby boom we're getting?" Evalina said with a small laugh. "Not even just with the tribe, but all over. Babies being born left and right. Kyle used to tell me that we didn't need to have another child because everyone was 'having enough babies for everybody'."

Amber giggled patted the protrusion on Evalina's belly, "Obviously you convinced him otherwise."

"Indeed I have," Evalina said. "If we have another girl, I'll give it some time and work my magic of persuasion again."

"Isn't Kyle planning to get a vasectomy?" Amber asked.

"I used said magic to convince him to wait until after the baby's born," Evalina smiled triumphantly.

"For his sake, I hope it's a boy," Amber joked.

About that time back in Korea, Eun Mi had adjusted to their new house flawlessly. She and Yon had obtained new furniture both from town and even went up to Seoul for more ornate or specialty items. JJ never wondered if Eun Mi loved their new place given she'd decorated it and made it homier than she ever had with their apartment on base back in Japan. By the time it was spring and farmers were able to get back to the rice, it was as though they'd always been there.

"I'm glad to know Eun Mi is so happy," Natalie said to JJ while the two spoke on the phone. JJ had stopped by admin on base hoping to speak with her before he returned home and thankfully he'd caught her.

"Happy is putting it mildly," JJ said. "I'm afraid she'll grip the door frame for dear life when it's time to return home."

"She hasn't said anything about wanting to stay has she?"

"No, she hasn't," JJ said. "Truthfully, I think she wants to but she knows what my answer will be and isn't bothering to ask."

"Well….your Uncle Nathan and Ada María are always adamant to go to Salvador every summer. Maybe it might be worth it to find-"

"No," JJ said before Natalie could finish. "I know what you're going to say and the answer is no. I FOUGHT here, mom. I don't want to spend my damn summers here like it's a vacation. I have no problem with returning periodically or something, but not every summer. Not a chance in hell."

"Yes, JJ, but how do you really feel?" Natalie managed to tease and made JJ chuckle a little. "I know you say the answer is 'no' but I've got news for you: imprints have a way of convincing the wolf to do anything. Your Uncle Kyle was supposed to get a Vasectomy since he's swearing up and down that this is going to be the last child he and Evalina have. He was dead set on it and you know what Evalina tells him? 'Let's at least find out if it's a boy or girl before we officially stop'."

"Amazing how a gift that makes us so powerful also makes us so spineless," JJ sighed.

"That is a catch I'm afraid," Natalie said.

"Speaking of which since you brought it up," JJ said, "How are Aunt Evie and Aunt Amber doing?"

"They're doing alright. No more nausea as far as I know, but they're both extremely achy. Heather and Evalynn are both convinced beyond a reasonable doubt that they're having little brothers."

"And if they have little sisters?"

"They may force them to wear baseball caps and pants out of spite," Natalie joked and they shared a laugh.

"Spoiled little brats," JJ laughed.

"I wouldn't be so mean, JJ. What happens when you and Eun Mi have a little girl?"

"I'll treat her the same way I treat Jae Sun: Like my child."

"You're delusional," Natalie giggled. "I joked with Suerro that if we ever have a daughter-"

"When we have a daughter," Suerro corrected in the background and JJ heard it over the phone.

"Fine, Suerro," Natalie sighed, "WHEN we have a daughter, I joked with Suerro that he'd treat that little girl like a princess. You know what he tells me? He tells me he'd treat her like a princess on a BAD day."

"Will this spoiled brat's feet ever even touch the ground?"

"Don't use that word about your little sister. Potential or otherwise," Natalie scolded.

"I'm just kidding, mom. Relax," JJ smiled. "Although I think my question remains valid."

"I'm sure her feet will touch the ground eventually."

"You mean when she's decided it's time to start dating?"

"JJ, stop it," Natalie said having glanced at Suerro and seeing the visibly angered look in his eyes even though he was trying to focus on Blu Jae. "We don't even have a daughter yet. Don't try to make her old enough to date just yet."

"May as well embrace the inevitable I would say," JJ said.

"Look who's talking," Suerro said from the background.

"Your husband's an asshole sometimes," JJ muttered mostly to himself.

"Oh stop it, both of you," Natalie said. "So all things considered, how do you like being back in Korea?"

"It's certainly better than the first time," JJ said. "It's much more relaxing. At least it is when I'm at the house. When I'm in Seoul, it's a lot busier. It's a recovering city and it shows. With all the relief effort the U.S. is providing, they're basically trying to rebuild themselves from the ground up."

"Nothing new from the North I hope?"

"Animosity to be sure, but nothing more. At least for now," JJ said. "From what I can tell, North Korea has pretty much cut themselves off completely from the world. It would seem no one can leave and no one can come in unless under the strictest of circumstances."

"Who would want to go in?" Natalie asked.

"People with family," JJ said bluntly and that seemed to hit home.

"Ah, yes," Natalie said with a remorseful sigh. "I can't imagine how that would feel to have a family that you can never see."

"It's not uncommon," JJ said. "There's a South Korean troop that I'll speak to here and there. He has a few cousins that were in North Korea when this all started. Hasn't seen them since the war. It's very likely they fought against us. Supposedly, the South Korean government is planning to put up some kind of billboard so families can write notes to relatives over the border. They'll never see it, mind you, but it would be a way to offer them comfort."

"That's so sad," Natalie said. "At least Eun Mi doesn't have living relatives that are stuck there."

"Thankfully," JJ said. "I think that might be part of the reason she loves that little house in the country so much: it reminds her of home when things were at their best. The absence of Japanese Troops just makes that better."

"No kidding," Natalie said and then sighed. "Now, JJ, I know you said the answer is no."

"Mom," JJ said firmly, but she continued.

"Now, now, JJ, just hear me out," Natalie said. "It might be worth it to ask Mr. and Mrs. Mun what they want for you to own the house rather than rent it. If it's something you can pay for up front, it may be a nice thing for you to have. That way, if Eun Mi wants to visit Korea, she has a place to stay and it'll be near friends." JJ sighed heavily as he pinched the bridge of his nose. "If you like, I can even ask my grandparents to send you some money."

"No, no, I'll take care of it," JJ said. "Worst case scenario, I'll pay for it in installments or something."

"I think Eun Mi would love it very much if you did," Natalie said.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah, I get it: I'm spineless."

"You're not spineless JJ. You're a considerate and loving husband."

"Same thing," JJ said and Suerro actually laughed from the other room. "Yeah, yeah, Suerro, have your fucking laugh."

"JJ," Natalie said firmly. "Be nice."

"Sure, sure," JJ sighed. A knock came at the door from one of his superiors letting him know he needed to hang up. "Sorry, mom, I'd better hang up. I'll talk to you again as soon as I can call."

"Alright, honey, I'll talk to you again soon," Natalie said.

"Tell Birdie I told him hi and keep being a rascal."

"I'll tell him the first part," Natalie said and the two finally said goodbye and disconnected.

"Everything alright at home?" JJ's commanding officer asked.

"Yeah, everything's fine," JJ said and stood from the chair he'd been sitting at. "Mom's convinced me to buy that house Eun Mi and I are staying at."

"Wife loves it that much, huh?" the officer teased.

"You could say that," JJ sighed. "I used to be able to say 'no' and stick to it."

"The right woman will always make you see things her way. No woman does it better than mom," the officer chuckled.

"Shut up," JJ muttered and then added, "Sir."

"That's more like it, Dauer," the officer chuckled. "Also, the orders are being given tomorrow, but I figured I'll warn you ahead of time. We're sending a clutch of men up to the parallel for a renewed rotation. You've been selected to go this time."

"God damn it," JJ groaned.

"I know, Corporal, but suck it up. Between you and me, if this round goes well from your end, you'll be promoted to Sergeant."

"Hurray," JJ sighed. "At least it'll be a boost for when I retire."

"Exactly," the officer said. "You can't argue with that."

"A married man with a kid would be an idiot to do so," JJ said.

"That's the spirit," the officer said. "Now get home and let your wife know. You'll be at the parallel a month and a half."

"Son of a bitch," JJ said and then nodded. "Yes sir. Thank you for letting me know."

"You're welcome, Corporal. Maybe Sergeant before long," the officer winked and walked away so JJ could leave and return home.

By the time he'd gotten back, Eun Mi and Yon had already prepared and served dinner with Tae Woon digging in with Jae Sun in his lap. Once JJ walked into the door, Jae Sun clumsily got off Tae Woon's lap and did his best to start walking to JJ. Everyone watched with a smile on their faces as JJ got out of his shoes and into a pair of slippers while Jae Sun stood, managed a few steps before plopping on his butt and then repeating. JJ waited at the door, kneeling down with his arms out encouraging Jae Sun along with encouraging words. Eventually Jae Sun made it to JJ and he was lifted into JJ's arms and hugged his dad while JJ hugged the boy and thanked him for the warm welcome home. He definitely needed it after today. Now that JJ had Jae Sun in his arms, Eun Mi went to him and welcomed him home with a hug.

"Dinner's ready," Eun Mi said.

"I was wondering why you were all sitting at the table already," JJ joked and kissed Eun Mi. The two went back to the table and Jae Sun stayed in JJ's lap while he enjoyed dinner. "May as well get this out of the way," JJ continued once he had his food. "I've been informed I'll be sent to the parallel tomorrow."

"For how long?" Eun Mi asked.

"My officer said a month and a half," JJ said. "I'll be able to write and everything and I'm sure I'll be alright."

"To my knowledge, the parallel has been rather calm," Yon said. "Hopefully it'll stay that way."

"I think it will for the most part," JJ said. "On the bright side, if things go well, the officer said I'd be up for promotion to Sergeant. That'll be a nice pay boost and upgrade for my retirement."

"Well, there you go," Yon smiled reassuringly. They all had dinner together and Yon and Tae Woon excused themselves following dinner so JJ and Eun Mi could be alone. JJ insisted on walking them out, though.

"Yon," JJ said once he was outside and Eun Mi wasn't listening, "when I get back, there's something I'd like to discuss with you and Tae Woon."

"What's that?" Yon asked.

"I wanted to discuss arrangements to buy the house from you and Tae Woon." The grin Yon gave him was unmistakable. If he'd thought he was getting out of this or that maybe Eun Mi wouldn't want him to buy the house, he was dead mistaken.

"We'll keep this between us," Yon finally said. "Once you return, you, me and Tae Woon will sit down together and iron out the details. In the meantime, I'm silent as the grave."

"I appreciate it, Yon," JJ said.

"You're welcome, JJ," Yon said, "and this will make Eun Mi very, very happy."

"Yeah, yeah, I know," JJ sighed and Yon giggled.

"Until you return," she said and they said their goodbyes before Yon and her husband finally walked away. When JJ returned inside, Eun Mi was already cleaning the dishes, but she was doing so with all her ghostly hands while her visible ones were holding Jae Sun trying to sooth him through his latest bout of soreness from teething.

"I can do the dishes," JJ said. Eun Mi allowed JJ to take over the task so she could focus on Jae Sun. She had him chewing on something to sooth the soreness and that had the boy calmed down by the time JJ had finished the dishes. "How about we all get in the bath?"

"That sounds nice," Eun Mi said.

For the next several hours, Eun Mi and JJ showed and then soaked in the tub together with Jae Sun letting him splash and play so he'd tire himself out for bed. Eventually, Jae Sun was at the desired state of still wanting to play but his body not letting him because he was tired. It made him fussy, so Eun Mi left the tub to get Jae Sun dressed for bed and tucked in. JJ told Jae Sun goodnight while Eun Mi left with him. JJ got the tub drained and then went to their bedroom to wait for Eun Mi. He didn't bother getting dressed after he'd dried off and just laid under the covers waiting for her. Eun Mi had already dried off and had also not bothered getting dressed for bed. She just got under the covers with JJ and went right to his side.

"You said you'll be gone a month and a half?" Eun Mi asked.

"That's what they told me," JJ said. "I promise I'll be alright." Eun Mi only nodded and got closer, putting her face against his broad chest with her arm resting on him.

"I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too," JJ said.

"You still have that picture of the three of us together?"

"I do," JJ said.

"Good," Eun Mi said. "Be sure to keep that with you. It'll remind you of home."

"I know," JJ smiled and turned over so he was above her. "Worst part is I'll be lonely."

"I wish I could do something about it," Eun Mi said.

"Not while I'm there," JJ said and then leaned down to give her a kiss. It lasted for a moment until JJ pulled away to look into her eyes again. "Though I won't turn down a parting kiss to tide me over until I get back."

"I'll give you something better," Eun Mi said and used all her strength to push JJ onto his back so she could come on top of him.

Once she was straddling his hips, Eun Mi came down to him wrapping her arms around his neck so the two of them could kiss. JJ's hands went right to her hips and he started to guide them in a gentle thrusting back and forth motion enjoying the feel of her against his growing erection. Eun Mi sighed against his lips from the friction and JJ turned around so he was on top of her again.

JJ took over, kissing her cheek, her neck, her chest down to her breasts until he reached her nipples that he paid particular attention to. When he did, she arched her back upwards with her head back savoring his touch. Her visible hands had gone into his short hair while her ghostly hands were all over. A pair was clutching the bed, another pair was touching JJ's back and yet another pair was pressed against the wall helping to keep her in place. While JJ's mouth sucked on her nipple, he trailed a hand down between them so he could touch the warmth between her legs. She was already wet and begging for him and he was just as desperate for her. So he aligned himself with her entrance and slipped inside her causing Eun Mi to moan his name gently.

To savor the feeling, JJ was still for a moment so the two could share a passionate kiss. Eun Mi's knees came up to cradle his hips in hers while she held onto him with every hand she had. She held onto JJ a little tighter to encourage him to move and he complied. JJ brought one hand to her hip while his other arm was resting beside Eun Mi's head keeping himself propped up so he wasn't crushing Eun Mi under his weight. Eun Mi touched JJ's chest as he moved enjoying the heat from his skin. Once he'd established a rhythm, JJ took his hand away from her hip and instead threaded his fingers through her hair and they started to kiss again.

It wasn't long before the two of them reached their climax together and once they had, JJ made sure he fell off to the side right beside Eun Mi taking her into his arms. They whispered 'I love you' and fell asleep in each other's arms. They were woken up the next morning bright and early by Jae Sun having wandered into their room plopping between the two of them trying to get Eun Mi's attention so he could have his breakfast. Eun Mi was about to get out of bed to attend to Jae Sun, but JJ made her stay in bed with him, not wanting to be parted from her just yet. So Eun Mi breast fed Jae Sun while they were all in bed together. When they did finally get out of bed, Eun Mi worked to get something cooked up for JJ before he left while JJ got dressed and made sure he had any extra things he'd want while he was at the parallel. After he'd eaten and Eun Mi packed a little extra food for him to take with him, she walked with him to the door with Jae Sun in her arms.

"Write to me once you're there?" Eun Mi said.

"I will," JJ promised and smiled at her after getting his shoes on. He looked at Jae Sun and leaned down so he was closer to the boy's level. "You keep mommy company while I'm away alright? And don't be any trouble. You hear?"

"Daaaaa," Jae Sun said, trying to say dad but not coming out quite right. JJ chuckled and lifted Jae Sun into his arms and kissed the boy's cheek.

"I'm told that's yes in Russian, so I'll take it," JJ joked.

"You have that picture of us all?"

"It's in my pocket," JJ promised again and then leaned down to give her a loving kiss. Apparently sensing this was a little different than normal, Jae Sun hugged JJ as though it would make him stay. "I'll miss you too, squirt," JJ smiled and hugged the boy. "I'll be back before you know it."

Using a pair of phantom hands, Eun Mi got herself up to JJ's level and the three of them hugged one another for a minute in silence until JJ really had to leave. He gave Jae Sun over to Eun Mi and when he had, Jae Sun started to get a little fussy. He kissed them both one more time before finally leaving the house and leaving to get to base so he could be sent to the parallel for his round. Eun Mi looked out the door and watched as he drove away already missing him. It took a little while to get Jae Sun to calm down, but when she finally did, Yon arrived and he perked up a little, going to her saying, "Haaaaa," until he finally reached her. While Yon was already a frequent visitor, with JJ away she became more of a contact companion. A few days after JJ left, Yon came to Eun Mi's house with a huge crock and a few straw baskets.

"What's all this for?" Eun Mi asked.

"I think it's about time I taught you how to make Makgeolli," Yon said.

"What's the occasion?" Eun Mi asked.

"It'll be for when JJ comes home," Yon smiled. "By the time he returns, it'll be all done. Any we don't drink we'll carry around and serve it to the farmers at noon when they're relaxing." Yon looked at Jae Sun with a wicked grin. "That's right, my little Jae Sun. You'll be carrying to tin kettle for us while we give the farmers some side dishes for lunch."

"Would he even be able to carry it?" Eun Mi asked, concerned.

"One of us can carry it if it's too heavy, but since he's the youngest, rules dictate he must carry the Makgeolli. If he doesn't want to carry the Makgeolli, then you and JJ will need to have another baby."

"Later," Eun Mi said with a small smile that she directed at Jae Sun reassuringly even though he didn't seem to realize what they were talking about.

The remainder of the day was spent meticulously cleaning the rice before getting it in the biggest pot she had to cook the rice. Once the rice was cooked, Eun Mi and Yon got the rice divided on the straw baskets so the rice could dehydrate until the outside was crispy but the inside still had some soft rice. Jae Sun still got some nurungji so he was happy. He sat in the living room watching his mother and Yon work while he sucked on his ball of toasted rice. The baskets got stacked on top of one another and covered with a clothe so they could dry. They'd left that out until the following day when they put the yeast, rice and starter culture into the large clay pot they'd spent all of the previous evening ensuring was very, very clean. From there, they would need to leave it alone save for when they'd stir it once a day. It stayed at Eun Mi's house staying inside further away from a wall so it was in a warmer spot. Jae Sun became fascinated with the pot because the bottom was always slightly warm from the alcohol being produced.

On the parallel, things were mostly rather boring and JJ preferred it that way. Boring meant he'd go back home. Regardless, whenever he had a second to relax or just felt like he needed, he'd pull out the picture of him, Eun Mi and their son. He and Eun Mi had letter correspondence, but it was hardly comparable to being able to talk to her in person. Or holding her in his arms. Or making love to her. His retirement couldn't come soon enough. Once he retired, he'd never have to set foot on the parallel ever again. He may have to return to Korea sometimes so Eun Mi could visit, but never again would he have to go back to the purgatory of boredom and walking on eggshells that was the 38th Parallel. Looking at the pictures of them all together, of him and Eun Mi from their wedding and of course the first pictures Eun Mi had ever sent him of her in Yon's hanbok holding his picture. He'd look at that picture when he was feeling lonely. He'd not had to be 'discreet' since last he'd been at the parallel before he and Eun Mi were married and he didn't much care for having to revert to a previous habit.

He certainly wasn't the only one, especially among those that were married and weren't interested in indulging in local friendly women, and they had an unspoken agreement that so long as you didn't make noise no one cared, but it was still a far cry from the real thing. Especially when the 'real thing' was an hour to two hour drive away for most of them. Since they lived in a house in the country, JJ was closer to being three and a half hours away, but he'd gladly drive that distance every day if it meant he could at least sleep in the same bed with his wife for the night. Later that afternoon, JJ was relieved by someone that usually did evening shifts and went to the mess hall near the parallel that they had so he could relax. He didn't get much of a chance to unfortunately.

"Well, look who it is," a familiar voice came. One that JJ wasn't particularly interesting in hearing frankly. "Good to see you again kid."

"You're here?" JJ said and looked at Oscar as he sat down at the table with him.

"Where else would I be?"

"Back in the dust bowl you came from?"

"Cute," Oscar chuckled a little. "It's a shame you don't swing my way or I'd have a bit of a crush on you."

"Ew," JJ said curtly.

"I thought you were supportive of such things."

"Not where you're involved," JJ groaned. "Least of all if you're trying to involve me."

"I wasn't trying to involve you. Just offering flattery."

"Whatever," JJ sighed. "Have you even gone back once?"

"Can't say as I have. Why? Anything interesting happening while I'm gone?"

"Sen. McCarthy's crying communist and holding trials for it according to my mom. Started broadcasting this month."

"Better hope he doesn't find out about Mrs. Demon Lady Dauer," Oscar said jokingly but JJ just glared at him. "Oh, for fuck sake, Dauer, just relax. It was a joke."

"You won't joke about her in that context again," JJ said. "Or so help me God I'll punch your nose."

"Your dad was much nicer," Oscar said and stood up from the table. "I'll leave you be."

JJ said nothing as Oscar walked away. Needing it more than ever at the moment, JJ pulled out their family picture and stared at it. He needed a reminder it was after the war despite the pre-war reminder from Oscar's presence. She looked so beautiful in that picture. He wore his uniform, Eun Mi wore her wedding hanbok and Jae Sun was wrapped up mostly in a blanket with his arms poking out showing that he was wearing a little baby's jacket. It would be the first of many family pictures they would take together and that thought returned a smile to his face.

Further south in the country, Eun Mi and Yon continued to spend a lot of time together. Their rice wine was still fermenting and the two of them were talking when Eun Mi thought she heard a commotion outside. She handed Jae Sun to Yon and got on her shoes before running outside to see what was going on. What she found was yellow throated weasel carrying something in its mouth that was crying and pawing at the air. The weasel dropped the small cat, probably a kitten no more than a few months old, and the kitten tried to fight off the weasel. Eun Mi grabbed a large stick she saw and went right to the scene, swatting the stick at the weasel.

"Go away!" Eun Mi yelled at the weasel.

If she didn't try to scare off the weasel, it might eat some of her neighbors' chickens and they'd already been extremely upset about the last time such a thing happened. She kept swinging the stick at the weasel, even hitting it along the side of its long belly. When she got the weasel a suitable distance away, the weasel growled at her and was about to approach again, but Eun Mi swung the stick again and the weasel cut its losses and moved on. Eun Mi sighed in relief when she heard Yon calling to her.

"Eun Mi, what happened?!" Yon called as she approached.

"There was a weasel, so I hit it with a stick and made it go away."

"Good," Yon nodded. "Last thing we all need is the little beast eating out chickens." Then Yon looked down at the small cat. It was still crying and Eun Mi could hear the kitchen purring. Yon heard it too. "Poor dear. He must be in so much pain. Why is he purring?"

"Cats do that when they're injured," Eun Mi said, remembering first-hand how true that was. Eun Mi kneeled down and the little cat began to growl and hiss at her, but the little guy just couldn't move his head. "Poor thing. Do you think Mr. Jin might be able to help him?"

"He might," Yon said, but hesitantly. "He's really more accustomed to treating chickens and pigs. I don't know how well versed he is with cats."

"We should at least ask," Eun Mi said.

Eun Mi asked Yon to bring her a big blanket and, once on hand, very, very gently guided the cat onto the blanket with the cat hissing and growling the entire time. There was blood on the blanket near immediately. The cat had a large portion of his tail missing and it seemed that wound was still fresh. His left leg was not moving at all leading Eun Mi to assume it was broken and then, of course, the bite from the weasel was causing bleeding and the little cat was in so much pain. He was a black and white cat with mostly white fur and black spots and patches all over his body. They hurried to get the cat to Mr. Jin who, thankfully, did know how to treat cats; was quite fond of them in fact. He told Eun Mi and Yon to go ahead and return home and he would take care of the cat.

"Do you think the cat will be alright?" Eun Mi asked Yon once the left Mr. Jin's farmhouse.

"I do hope so," Yon said. "That poor thing. I'm shocked he's lived this long."

"Me too," Eun Mi said and then looked down at Jae Sun. He'd started whimpering a little when the cat started growling while they'd carried the cat to Mr. Jin. She cuddled Jae Sun and kissed his head. "It's okay, Jae Sun."

After that, Yon and Eun Mi returned to business as usual, though they made a point that day to warn their neighbors that a weasel was out and about and to ensure their chickens were secure so the weasel wouldn't get to them. Another week and a half later, the Makgeolli was finally ready. Yon tasted it to ensure it was the right alcohol content. She offered Eun Mi some but she refused under the excuse Jae Sun was still weaning from breast milk and she'd been warned by her doctor (Kyle) not to drink until after Jae Sun was fully weaned. Albeit he'd made that recommendation to a number of other patients for whom that was an actually concern rather than Eun Mi given she'd not drink anyway, but she remembered the recommendation and was satisfied with the excuse. Thankfully, Yon was as well and the two of them started getting the Makgeolli into glass bottles they'd keep in the ice box. Jae Sun attempted to try some, but Eun Mi made sure he didn't get any, scolding him saying that he was too young.

As his commanding officer had promised, given things went well during his round at the Parallel, JJ was officially promoted to rank of Sergeant. After finally leaving the parallel for now, he was sent to the base near Seoul to receive his new badges before he was given leave to return to the country until he had to return to base the next day. Back in the countryside, Eun Mi and Yon had made dinner for themselves at the house. They'd not opened the bottles of Makgeolli seeing as that was reserved for when JJ returned home. While they were eating together, Jae Sun started making noises pointing outside where the back door was open.

"Po," Jae Sun said over and over again while pointing at a little cat that had come onto the patio.

"No, no, Jae Sun," Tae Woon said, "고양이," (Goyang-i/Cat) Tae Woon corrected.

"Po, po, po, po," Jae Sun kept saying over and over again.

"Wait," Yon said, "Isn't that the cat we rescued a few weeks ago?" Eun Mi looked at recognized the cat right away. White with lots of black patches and spots, a very short tail that had been amputated somehow, but he was bigger. He also had a big bandage on his tail, around his neck and on his left leg. The left lug was kept still with a little stint. "What on earth is he doing out and about?"

Eun Mi gently put Jae Sun on the floor next to Yon before approaching the door. She grabbed a skewer of cooked chicken and held it out for the cat to smell. She kneeled closer and the cat didn't step away, but he stayed rather rigid until Eun Mi presented the food. The cat sniffed it and bit right into the piece closest to him. Eun Mi let go so the cat could enjoy and then he hobbled away with his catch.

"We will have to warn Mr. Jin that little guy got out," Yon said. "He shouldn't be wandering in his condition."

"He already looks better," Eun Mi said.

"Popo," Jae Sun said and did his best to walk over to the door until he fell against Eun Mi's leg. Eun Mi patted Jae Sun's head and lifted him into her arms.

"Don't worry, Jae Sun. I'm sure the cat will be just fine." Eun Mi gave Jae Sun's cheek a little kiss and then walked back to the table sitting down with everyone again. Eun Mi was walking Tae Woon and Yon through a game of poker with Jae Sun in her lap when the front door opened.

"Da!" Jae Sun managed and hurried out of Eun Mi's lap and wobbled over to JJ. He got out of his shoes and into some slippers by the time Jae Sun made it to him and kneeled down to give the boy a hug. "Dada," Jae Sun said once JJ was holding him.

"I missed you too, Jae Sun," JJ smiled and stood up. Eun Mi was already approaching the door and hugged him once he was standing back up.

"We all missed you," Eun Mi smiled.

"I missed you too," JJ said to Eun Mi.

"Welcome home, Corporal," Tae Woon said.

"Sergeant now," JJ smiled.

"Well, excuse me," Tae Woon joked and then said something to Yon in Korean.

"Oh! Yes, now that you're home, we can drink some Makgeolli."

"Remind me what that is?"

"It's rice liquor," Eun Mi said.

"Oh," JJ said, "Well, why didn't you say so?"

JJ sat at the table with them while Yon got out one bottle of Makgeolli and enjoyed it together save for Eun Mi and Jae Sun despite the boy's efforts. JJ held Jae Sun in his lap the rest of the night and played poker with them until Yon and Tae Woon finally left for the night from exhaustion. While JJ played with Jae Sun, Eun Mi got a hot bath drawn for JJ and once it was ready the three of them got in. When JJ got into the hot water, he moaned.

"I haven't had a hot bath in weeks," JJ said. "Just cold showers with minimal privacy."

"Welcome home," Eun Mi smiled and used a pair of phantom hands to rub JJ's shoulders which made him moan again. "You're really stiff."

"I noticed," JJ smiled but kept his eyes closed while Eun Mi rubbed his shoulders. "I missed you both. If I had a dollar for every time I pulled out our pictures to remind me of home, we'd be millionaires." Eun Mi smiled and snuggled closer to him.

"You won't have to go back again for a while will you?"

"Not for another two months at least," JJ said. "So I've got time. I'll have to go back to the parallel one more time after that before I retire and then I'm done. Over. Never again."

"Has it changed much since the war?"

"A proper wall's being built," JJ said, "close the two countries off pretty definitively. We completed prisoner exchange back in '53 so now South Korea more or less wants nothing more to do with the North. From what I hear, North Korea's sentiments on that matter are pretty different."

"They want to be one nation again," Eun Mi said. "I think South Korea wants that too, but the issues we're facing just aren't that simple. Those failed reunification negotiations prove that I think."

"Did I tell you about this one kid who has family on the other side?" JJ asked and Eun Mi nodded. "I ended up being at the parallel same time as him while I was there. Caught him sniffling in his cot one day and asked him what was wrong. You know what he said?"

"What?"

"He said while he was doing his rounds, he saw his cousin on the other side. He tried to wave at him, but his cousin either didn't notice him or didn't acknowledge him. They used to be close apparently."

"What did you say to him?"

"I just said I was sorry he had to go through all this," JJ said. "I really did feel horrible for him. It was the first time he'd seen his cousin in years too."

"That's horrible," Eun Mi said. "As much as I miss them, I'm relieved mother and grandpa never lived to see all this. Or they lived to risk never seeing me again."

"I wish I could say I'd have done whatever I could to get them out," JJ said, "but I wouldn't have known where to begin."

"Don't think about it," Eun Mi said and hugged JJ, using a set of Phantom hands to keep Jae Sun above water while he splashed and played. "I love you."

"I love you too," JJ said and hugged her tight then kissed her. "I missed you so much."

Eun mi stayed snuggled up to JJ for a while and they Jae Sun eventually managed to swim over splashing water at them trying to get them to play with him. JJ was careful with Jae Sun but splashed back at him and got water all over the place but Jae Sun had fun. They stayed in that tub together until Jae Sun was too tired to play and the water was getting cold. Eun Mi tried to tuck Jae Sun into his bed, but he stayed fussy until Eun Mi finally brought Jae Sun to their room so he could sleep in their bed. Once in bed, Jae Sun snuggled up to JJ saying 'dada' a few times.

"He didn't call me that before I left," JJ said, feeling a frog in his throat.

"He started saying it a few days after you left," Eun Mi said. "I think he wanted to know where you were."

"It's less than a year away, Jae Sun," JJ reassured. "I'll retire and we can go back home. I'll never be away that long again."

"Dada," Jae Sun said with a little yawn and JJ smiled.

"Glad we understand each other," JJ said and patted the boy's back. "And here I wanted a little time alone with you but this is in the way," JJ pointed at Jae Sun and Eun Mi smiled.

"Tomorrow night. But until then," then Eun Mi leaned over and gave JJ a loving kiss. It lasted until Jae Sun's foot twitched in his sleep and the two pulled away. Eun Mi rubbed Jae Sun's little back and got closer. "No one believes he's as old as he is."

"That's mostly my fault," JJ smiled. "If he's inherited anything from me, it's definitely my impending height."

"Do you think he'll be as tall as you?"

"I'd count on it," JJ chuckled. He rubbed Jae Sun's back and looked at the little boy who was already sound asleep. "If I'd known kids were this cute, I'd have suggested we have them sooner."

Eun Mi giggled, "Jae Sun was a surprise as it is."

"That's true," JJ said and then leaned over to Eun Mi and gave her another kiss. "We'll have a proper reunion tomorrow."

Eun Mi nodded in agreement and kissed him again before the two of them finally tried falling asleep with Jae Sun between them. Bright and early the next morning, Tae Woon and Yon appeared at their door requesting a ride from JJ into the city. After a brief exchange of Eun Mi asking if she was needed and Yon insisting she stay home with Jae Sun, Eun Mi relented and stayed at the house. Once the three of them were on the road, Yon took over the conversation for brevity and clarity.

"So, Sergeant," Yon said with a hint of pride, "about what we discussed before you left. Are you still interested?"

"Yeah," JJ said with a little sigh. "How much? To buy the place?"

"Well, given your rent is currently $50/month, that's about ₩53,000 (Won). Given that it's a two bedroom with a temple, a kitchen and plenty of outdoor space, I'd be happy to let you have it for ₩3,736,670. That's about $3500 US dollar."

"That's fair," JJ said. "I can pay most of that now. I've got some money in my savings. How about I pay you the $2500 now and I'll pay the rest of it in installments for the rest of the time I'm station here? Have it paid off before I retire."

"I think that's acceptable," Yon said and then turned to her husband. They spoke in Korean for a bit so she could explain what was discussed and agreed upon and when Tae Woon nodded his head, Yon returned to looking at JJ. "Tae Woon agreed that's fair." Yon held out her hand and JJ accepted it so they could shake on it. "It was a pleasure, Sergeant. And while I realize Korea isn't your favorite place to be, maybe a little house in the country and the two of us can be motivation to visit whenever you can."

"I know Eun Mi will want to," JJ said. "Besides, she said she never wants our kids to forget where she came from. I can see no better way to guarantee that than for them to visit Korea."

"Well said," Yon smiled.

"I'll have a check for the amount we discussed written out to you before the end of this week and then we can agree on a mortgage payment that will ensure we have the house paid off before I leave."

"Agreed," Yon nodded.

"So what was it you needed to get down town? Or were you just looking for an excuse for the three of us to talk privately?"

"Just an excuse to speak privately," Yon smiled, "but Tae Woon and I can find something to do in town while we wait for you to leave the base."

"Alright," JJ chuckled.

Back at the house, Eun Mi was on the back patio preparing radishes for pickling. She'd ran out of the ones Yon had given her and she needed to replace them. And she needed to make Kimchi. Jae Sun was on the patio with her playing with one of his toys and Eun Mi kept focused on her task, glancing at Jae Sun periodically to make sure he was still playing and wasn't getting into anything he wasn't supposed to. He did try to steal a radish and bit into one, so Eun Mi cut off the piece Jae Sun had taken and he started sucking on that. While Eun Mi was working, the cat from before appeared again. The bandages around his neck and tail were gone, but he still had a stint on his leg.

"Popo!" Jae Sun said and pointed at the cat.

"We're calling him Popo?" Eun Mi asked Jae Sun with a smile and returned her attention to the cat. He walked up the stairs as best as his bad left leg would allow and sniffed the radish. "No, Popo. Cats don't eat radish," Eun Mi said. She went inside to grab some meat left over from the night before and brought it out. She held the skewer of chicken to the cat who sniffed it, grabbed it, and then started fumbling down the stairs and running away. "He's in better shape than he was at least."

"Popo?" Jae Sun asked.

"Popo got his food, Jae Sun," Eun Mi said. "He went home to Mr. Jin."

Jae Sun stared at her a moment and then continued gnawing on his piece of radish. A few more days went by and it was rather routine. JJ would go to the base for the day, Eun Mi would be home with Jae Sun and Yon would visit, the cat would come over for food and every time he did he always looked in better shape and since the farmers were really getting out for spring, Eun Mi, Yon and Jae Sun walked along the rice patties giving the farmers side dishes to eat and some Makgeolli to enjoy. Jae Sun had tried carrying the kettle, but it was too heavy as Eun Mi feared it would be, so she held it. However she did make Jae Sun walk on his own to get some much needed practice.

"How old is your boy?" one of the farmers asked after he'd stirred his drink with his pinky finger to get the sediment mixed in.

"He was born December 25th 1953," Eun Mi said.

"So he's two?" the farmer asked in astonishment, accounting for his time in the womb rather than the point he was born. "Goodness me, what are you feeding this boy? He's already so big."

"He takes after his father," Yon giggled. "His father is a giant."

"Yes, I have seen that," the farmer chuckled. "He's a handsome young man. You'll have to beat the girls away with a stick."

"If she hits those poor girls the way she hit that weasel, young Jae Sun will never get married," one farmer joked and everyone laughed.

"Try to go easy on them in the future," the farmer said.

"I won't be so mean," Eun Mi said and patted Jae Sun's head. He went to Eun Mi and hugged her leg.

"Worry not, mother bear. The cub still loves only you," the farmer chuckled and took back his drink. "And the Makgeolli is excellent."

"You should have the Chapssal-Tteok," Yon said and took one from the platter to have over. "Eun Mi finally taught me how to make these and they're very good."

The farmer eagerly accepted the rice cake and agreed it was delicious before taking three more much to the chagrin of the others who were waiting for their share. They spent the better part of two hours walking along the field of rice patties making sure everyone got their share of side dishes and Makgeolli. By the time they returned to Eun Mi's house, all the food was gone and the only remaining Makgeolli was in a single bottle they'd left at the house. When they arrived back, the cat – or Popo as Jae Sun had seemingly named him – was sitting on the porch licking at his paw. Right away, Eun Mi noticed the stint was gone from his left leg. He was still a little dirty, but he looked so much better than he had when she'd first saved him from the weasel.

"I think that little cat's grateful," Yon smiled. "Or he wants food."

"He probably wants food," Eun Mi said. After licking his paw, Popo stood up only to stretch with a big yawn sticking his butt in the air. When he'd finished stretching, Popo noticed Eun Mi and released a meow that was so loud it actually made her and Yon jump.

"Ma," Jae Sun tried saying mother, still unable to say the full eomma, "Popo," he said as he pulled on Eun Mi's skirt while pointing at the cat.

"Yes, Jae Sun, I see Popo," Eun Mi said.

"You can hear him to," Yon sighed. They were used to the sound by now, but the cat continued to meow in long pleading breaths as he walked over to Eun Mi. Once he'd reached her legs, Jae Sun started petting the cat when he could as Popo rubbed against Eun Mi's legs and going between them continuing to meow at her. "I think he likes you, Eun Mi," Yon giggled.

"You think?" Eun Mi said sarcastically. "Yon, can you do me a favor and get the dishes in the sink? I'll help in just a minute."

"Alright," Yon agreed and took the dishes to the kitchen while Eun Mi walked outside with the cat following her. Jae Sun followed her as well, wobbling after her while she went to the back porch.

She didn't have any more meat in the house now that JJ was back and wouldn't eat it, so she had to get creative. She extended all ten of her hands prepare to snatch anything she saw. Popo kept meowing and rubbing against her legs while she stared out into the yard. Soon, she saw something small move and grabbed at it as fast as her ghostly hand would go and she caught a little bird, crushing it with the force of her grip. Once it stopped struggling, Eun Mi carried it to the porch keeping it close to the ground so Yon wouldn't notice in case she was looking and placed it at the bottom of the stairs.

"There, Popo," Eun Mi said. "There's dinner."

Eun Mi brought the ghostly hand that had caught the bird close to Popo's nose so he'd smell it and she took it away slowly when he tried to bite, leading him to the bird until he found it and took the bird into his mouth. Once he had the bird, Eun Mi expected the cat would just run away with it, but he didn't. Instead, he came back onto the porch ready to eat the bird.

"No!" Eun Mi said and gently tried getting the cat to go away. Instead, he snuggled up to her legs and started purring. Though for how loud and strong it was, it may as well have been a car's engine. Once he'd rubbed her legs again, Popo sat back down on the porch and started eating. Rather than argue, Eun Mi just sighed. "Just don't make a mess," she said and started walking inside. Jae Sun stayed by the cat and started petting him and trying to grab the cat, but Eun Mi pulled Jae Sun away before he could unintentionally get too rough with the cat and brought him inside.

"What happened?" Yon asked.

"I helped him catch a bird and he's eating it on the porch," Eun Mi said.

"You keep this up Eun Mi and he'll never leave," Yon giggled. "And unlike a man, he doesn't offer children or work to bring home a salary to make him worth your time and energy to feed him."

"I'm sure as soon as he's comfortable enough to hunt as his own he will do so and go about his way," Eun Mi said. "The poor thing was nearly eaten by a weasel and he's still recovering. Give the little guy some sympathy."

Yon smiled, shrugged and said nothing further on the matter before telling her to come to the kitchen and help clean. Back in Washington, Amber's and Evalina's pregnancies progressed normally. They were also progressing at virtually at the exact same time. A number of people were started to bet on how close together their babies would be born. Kyle predicted closer to July for both of them, but that was the extent that he involved himself in the bet. There were three details to the bet: who would go into labor first, boy or girl and estimated date of birth. Evalina ultimately was the first to go into labor, so everyone won that part of the bet. It was the first of July when she started feeling pain and by that afternoon, the pain was starting to become consistent.

Evalina's family made sure to keep Evalynn busy downstairs so Kyle could keep an eye on Evalina and on her progress. That evening, she was walking around their bedroom trying to encourage her water to break, but it didn't finally happen until late in the evening. Once her water finally broke, everything else happened rather quickly. Amadora stayed behind Evalina while Kyle encouraged her along, making her push when it was the right time and holding her hand the whole time until he saw the baby's head start to crown. After that, she gave it one more good push and, finally, the baby came out and started crying right away. Kyle made sure he caught the baby in his arms gently and once the baby was born, Evalina released an audible sigh of relief that the worst was over.

"It's a boy," Kyle said and looked up at Evalina with a gentle smile.

"Caleb," Evalina said with the same elated smile and watched while Kyle pinched off the circulation of the umbilical cord before cutting it. Once the cord was cut, Kyle went to a little basin of water Renesmee had prepared and got the baby cleaned up, dried off and wrapped in a little white blanket. Then he brought their son back to the bed getting on beside Evalina so she could hold him.

"Oh, Evalina, he's perfect," Amadora praised and looked down at the little boy. He'd stopped crying by now, but he was still growing accustomed to leaving the womb. He started grabbing and moving around, so Evalina pulled her dress aside so Caleb could have his milk.

"Caleb Dante Black," Evalina said and looked at Kyle. "I think it's a good name."

"I would take that up with your grandparents honestly," Kyle joked. When Caleb did have his eyes open, they were brown and when Kyle was drying his hair, it was clear his hair was a dark brown too. Most times through his meal though, he was content to have his eyes closed and even seemed to be falling asleep once he was finishing.

"Why don't I take him downstairs to meet everyone while you relax?" Amadora offered once Caleb was finished and took the boy from Evalina's arms to take him downstairs. Once they were alone, they could overhear everyone doting on the little boy. The inevitable grumbles came from Afton and Dimitri that their great grandson wasn't named after either of them while Dante had his victory lap so to speak that his grandson was named after him.

"Don't worry," Kyle said when they overheard Afton and Dimitri bickering. "They'll get over it eventually."

"Oh, I know," Evalina sighed. "Truthfully, if they weren't so damned persistent, I might have had a hard time picking which name I wanted to use, but they made it rather easy."

Kyle chuckled when he noticed Afton and Dimitri go silent when they overheard that. "I think you hurt their feelings, Evalina." All she did in answer was shrug and it made him chuckle again. "And Evie?"

"Yes?"

"Can I get a vasectomy now?"

Evalina started laughing a little before snuggling up to him and nodded. "Yes, you can get a vasectomy now."

"I'll schedule that right away," Kyle said and just earned a humored but exasperated sigh from Evalina. Kyle kissed her cheek and eventually she couldn't help but smile.

And Kyle was true to his word. He stayed at home with Evalina for two days they got to know their new baby. Evalynn was on cloud nine over her little brother. Aside from the satisfaction of being right, she thought her little brother was cute and looked 'like a turtle'. She would poke his little nose until Caleb would swat away her hand with displeasure at being poked and Evalina made sure to keep in check. But after those two days together, Kyle went up to the Cullen house practically begging Carlisle to perform the surgery right then and there. By that afternoon, he'd undergone the procedure and was feeling the soreness, but he took it with pleasure. It would heal quickly for him anyway. Despite the lingering soreness, he walked home with a spring in his step and Evalina was on the porch with Caleb in her arms and Evalynn playing in the yard with some of the other kids and Evalina's family.

"I take it the procedure went well?" Evalina asked.

"It went as planned," Kyle said and went to sit beside her on the porch swing. He winced a little when he sat down, but he took it. "By the time we can return to being intimate, I'll be sterile as the hospital."

"Try to contain your excitement," Evalina teased and then handed Caleb over to him. Kyle accepted the little boy into his arms and held out his free hand so Caleb could play with Kyle's fingers, squeezing and releasing them improving his strength. "I think a boy and girl are acceptable."

"Me too," Kyle said.

With Evalina having a boy, a good chunk of people officially lost the wager. All that was left was to find out if Amber was having a boy or a girl. Kyle made sure to keep a close eye on Amber with Kevin calling if there was anything that had changed. He was rather confident Amber would deliver in July as well, but it was several days later. Since it was approaching their anniversary, Kevin still wanted to do something special for her, but he didn't want to risk taking her out anywhere if they didn't have to. So he asked Anna and Levi to look after Heather for a few days. Embry would be coming over the weekend to play with her as well for good measure. Their anniversary would be that Monday and Kevin had already made Alphonse and the rest of the office aware he would be gone that Monday and Tuesday. He had every intention of giving her an anniversary weekend.

"You really took Monday and Tuesday off?" Amber asked with a smile.

"Of course I did," Kevin said. He poured himself some bourbon and made Amber lemon water with a little honey as a mock cocktail that they clinked together. "Here's to four years and many more to come," Kevin said.

"To four years and many more," Amber said and drank her water while Kevin drank his bourbon. "So what did you have planned for tonight?"

"Something special," Kevin smiled and led Amber to their sitting room where their little TV was. "Take a seat. I'll get us something to snack on. And turn on the TV. The movie will be playing soon."

Amber smiled and did as Kevin said as he returned to the kitchen. At the moment, there were commercials playing and Amber could overhear Kevin getting a pot on the stove. Soon, she heard the clinking of what sounded like little beads and, after a few minutes, she heard the popping of popcorn. Finally, Kevin returned to the living room and sat beside her on the couch with a giant bowel of popcorn. He put that on the table while he got Amber's feet in his lap and started massaging her feet.

"Oh, Kevin, I needed that," Amber moaned as he gently squeezed her sore feet. While he was massaging her feet, she heard the beginning credits for a Warner Brother's movie before the music trailed into the opening music for Casablanca. "Casablanca?"

"It's one of the greatest romances of all time so I hear," Kevin said. "It was either this or Gentleman Prefer Blondes." Amber looked at Kevin with a crooked stare. "What?"

"I don't understand the title of that movie," Amber sighed. "It's a cute little movie, but Marilyn Monroe is hardly the only starlet. Jane Russell was beautiful too. Not to mention, she gets the handsome man."

"The handsome one without money," Kevin said.

"Oh no," Amber said sarcastically. "If the message is meant to imply rich men prefer empty headed money grubbers then I can't say as that's a very good message."

"Indeed," Kevin said, "Which is why I consider myself very lucky that you're the blonde this gentleman had the pleasure to trick into marrying him."

Amber giggled. Partially from what he said but also from his rubbing her feet and tickling her a little. "I prefer to think I tricked you into marrying me."

"Nonsense," Kevin smiled and lifted her foot up to his lips and kissed her toes. His hand trailed up her leg until he reached the very bottom of her belly. He laid his hand flat against it hoping the baby would kick.

"I think the baby's asleep," Amber smiled. "And upside down no less."

"Any day now?" Kevin smiled.

"Any day now." Amber placed her hand over Kevin's and sighed. "I fear I may fall asleep."

"Go right ahead," Kevin said. "I'll keep rubbing your feet."

As promised, Kevin took his hand away so he could use both hands to rub her feet. She'd fallen asleep before Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman were reunited in her bar. Even when she was asleep, Kevin kept rubbing her feet, letting the popcorn get cold. He wound up turning off the movie half way through and carrying Amber upstairs to their bedroom and falling in bed with her. The following day, Kevin and Amber stayed in enjoying the sunshine while reading together. Something they'd not done in a very long time. They'd planned to watch another movie together and actually eat the popcorn Kevin would make, but by the time it was evening, Amber just wasn't feeling good and they went to bed together for the night. She fell asleep almost the instant her head touched the pillow.

Then it was the middle of the night. Amber woke up to a sharp pain that lasted a few seconds. When she opened her eyes, their clock read 1:30 in the morning and she groaned a little. At first she tried going back to sleep and for a moment it seemed like she would be able to. She was on the verge of doing so when another sharp pain happened that lasted a few seconds before going away. It became rather obvious she was going into labor or would very soon. Since it was so early in the morning, Amber decided she'd at least wait until morning seeing as the pain was several minutes apart and only lasted a few seconds. The remainder of that time, she was just uncomfortable.

She tried several more times to fall back asleep, but just as she would doze off, she'd be woken right back up by that sharp pain that seemed to last longer and longer each time it happened. When she saw the sun creeping up in the distance through their window, Amber was having another contraction that was lasting a full two minutes. Kevin woke up and saw how tense she was trying to keep quiet and instantly he was alert.

"Amber? What's wrong?"

"I'm having a contraction," Amber whimpered.

"Hold on. I'll call Kyle," Kevin said. Amber didn't stop him while Kevin grabbed the phone and called. He ended up getting Evalina on the phone instead but she promised she'd send Kyle right away, making sure to ask anything she knew Kyle would want to know. "Evalina's going to send him," Kevin said once he'd ended the call.

"Okay," Amber said, taking deep breaths. The latest contraction had passed but she was still uncomfortable. "Can you call my parents? Let them know I'm in labor? Tell them we'll let them know as soon as it's getting close to delivery, but just let them know it's started."

"Okay," Kevin said and got her parents on the phone, relaying the message.

Levi and Anna would be going to work but made a point to remind Kevin of the work numbers and instructed him to call them as soon as anything changed. Otherwise they would be coming to the house with Heather immediately after work. Heather would be going to the candle shop with Anna so that would give Amber some space for the time being. Kyle and Renesmee were at their house an hour later and Kyle was quick to ask Amber how she was feeling, time between contractions etc. Kyle encouraged Amber to move around so she could help herself along, so Kevin guided her out of bed and helped her to move around a bit. The ordeal of her contractions lasted for several more hours after that, compounding in frequency, duration and intensity until she was eventually unable to stand being on her feet. Since her contractions were close enough together, Kyle made Kevin get situated behind Amber so she was in the birthing position.

By the time it was midday, Amber's water had finally broken, but it was a few more minutes of intense pain after that before Amber could finally start pushing. Kyle guided her along with Renesmee near and ready with a towel so they could get the baby to some clean water. After a few good pushes, Amber was able to push the baby out filling the room with a baby's cry. The baby cried and cried until Kyle got the baby into view showing them their son.

"Congratulations, you two. It's a boy," Kyle said. Amber and Kevin smiled as Kyle got the cord cut and pinched before handing the baby over to Renesmee to get cleaned off. Finally, she brought the baby over to them wrapped in a little white blanket.

"He's perfect," Renesmee smiled as she handed the baby over to Amber. She kneeled down to look at the baby while Amber and Kevin admired their son. He had Kevin's reddish brown hair and when the boy finally opened his eyes, his eyes were blue just like Amber's. It struck Kevin how much the baby looked just like Amber.

"He looks just like you," Kevin smiled and touched the baby's cheek. "Levi Jacob."

"It's perfect for him," Amber smiled. "And to think he was born on our anniversary."

Kevin chuckled, "Couldn't have planned it better if we tried."