Hello! Before I write anything else, I want to say to you that thank you for having followed this story of mine and favorited it. And also for leaving your kind reviews. This not only shows am on the right track but also gives me the morale to keep on writing.
The following morning, Ji Hoo sent a message to Jan Di's phone.
"Hey, how did you sleep?" and waited patiently for her reply. He had been thinking about her all night and was eager to hear how she had rested after their date.
'I slept well. Thank you for asking, and you?' She replied with a smile on her face.
Ji Hoo's heart skipped a beat as he read Jan Di's response. He couldn't help but feel a surge of happiness, knowing that she had slept well.
Excitement filled him as he typed his reply: "I slept better than ever, thinking about our time together. Can't wait to see you again!"
'I feel the same. See you at the airport.'
Jan Di responded; her words filled with equal excitement. Ji Hoo's heart raced as he imagined their next meeting at the airport. The anticipation of seeing her again made his palms sweat and his stomach flutter with butterflies. He couldn't wait to hold her in his arms and continue creating beautiful memories together. The thought of their blossoming relationship consumed his every thought, and he eagerly counted down the hours.
After Gu Jun Pyo forcefully took her to the shopping mall, where he chased all the customers out so he could have the mall to himself and Jan Di, he couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. The grand gesture showed his determination to win her heart, but he also worried about how she would react. Despite the uncertainty, he knew deep down that after their trip to New Caledonia, she would start feeling the same way.
Little did he know that Jan Di's heart belonged to none other than his best friend, Yoon Ji Hoo.
…
The F4, Ga Eul, and Jan Di sat on the Shinhwa private plane going to New Caledonia. Ga Eul and Jan Di sat across from each other, enjoying the food they had been served while chatting and laughing. F4, on the other hand, seemed lost in their own thoughts, their gazes fixed on the vast expanse of clouds outside the window. The trip to New Caledonia was not just a mere vacation for them; it was a chance to escape the chaos of their lives and find solace in each other's company. As the plane glided through the clear blue sky, they couldn't help but reminisce about their high school days at Shinhwa Kindergarten School. The memories flooded back, from their mischievous pranks to the unforgettable moments they shared.
Ji Hoo and Jan Di kept secretly glancing at each other, sharing secret signals with their eyes that only they could read. Their connection was so strong that even after a few months of getting to know each other, they still understood each other without saying a word. It was as if time had stood still, and they were transported back to their carefree days of innocence and friendship.
Judging by how Ji Hoo was looking into her eyes, he could read the depth of her emotions and the unspoken words that lingered between them. As he continued to look at her, he could tell that she was saying, "Hi," without uttering a single syllable. The warmth in her gaze spoke volumes, expressing a sense of familiarity and comfort that surpassed any language barrier. It was as if their souls were entwined, dancing to a silent melody that only they could hear.
"Hey, I hope to see you later," his eyes replied, reciprocating the same warmth and longing. He looked around only to notice his friends were sleeping. He then met her eyes with a silent signal asking her to follow him to a more secluded spot where they could continue their conversation undisturbed.
Ji Hoo was the first to leave his seat and make his way to the plane's cabin, with Jan Di following behind him. As they walked down the narrow aisle, their shoulders brushed against each other, sending a shiver down their spines. The air was thick with anticipation and unspoken words as if they were on the brink of a life-altering moment. Finally finding an empty row towards the back of the plane, Ji Hoo gestured for Jan Di to take the window seat. As she settled in, he took the seat next to her, their bodies so close that their arms grazed against each other.
The turbulence of the plane seemed to mirror the whirlwind of emotions inside them—excitement, nervousness, and an undeniable connection that defied logic. With a gentle smile, Ji Hoo broke the silence and began speaking softly about New Caledonia, a beautiful island destination known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. He described the crystal-clear waters, the lush rainforests, and the unique blend of French and Melanesian culture that awaited them. Jan Di listened intently, her heart fluttering with anticipation as she imagined the adventures they would embark on together in this tropical paradise.
"Do you have a camera?" he asked.
"No, I don't have," she replied with a tinge of disappointment in her voice.
But Ji Hoo smiled reassuringly and said, "No worries, I have one we can use during our time together here. It's a high-quality DSLR that captures every detail of this breathtaking island. We'll be able to document our experiences and create lasting memories." Jan Di's face lit up with gratitude as she realized that Ji Hoo had thought of everything.
"So," he said softly, leaning closer to her face. "Last night was wonderful, wasn't it?" he asked, kissing both her cheeks and making Jan Di blush, her heart fluttering at the memory of their intimate moments.
"It was beyond wonderful," she whispered, her voice filled with affection. Ji Hoo's eyes sparkled with adoration as he gently brushed a strand of hair behind her ear.
"Let's go out on another date when we arrive."
"But Gu Jun Pyo will be there," Jan Di hesitated, her brows furrowing with worry. Ji Hoo's smile faded slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. "Don't worry," he reassured her, his voice soothing. "We'll figure something out. We deserve to have our own time together."
Jan Di nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over her as Ji Hoo held her hand tightly in his.
"Do you enjoy fishing?" she asked him but saw his face turn sour as he remembered a past fishing trip. "Not really," Ji Hoo replied with a hint of disappointment.
"I had a bad experience once, but I'm open to trying new things if it's something you enjoy." Jan Di smiled, appreciating his willingness to step out of his comfort zone for her.
"Well, let's find something else we can both enjoy then," she suggested, determined to make their date memorable and enjoyable for both.
"Thank you," Ji Hoo said sincerely, grateful for Jan Di's understanding and consideration. His eyes sparkled as he looked at those cherry lips, he got to taste last night and wished he could taste them again soon. He proceeded, running the back of his hand against her cheek, savoring the softness of her skin. He began leaning in closer, his heart pounding with anticipation. Jan Di's breath hitched as she felt his warm breath against her lips, her own desire growing with each passing second.
Jan Di moved closer, anticipating receiving her second kiss from him. The electricity between them was undeniable, and she craved the sensation of his lips on hers once more. As their faces drew nearer, time seemed to stand still, and the world around them faded into the background. Every nerve in her body tingled with excitement, and she could feel her heartbeat quicken in sync with his.
Before their lips could meet, "Can I…kiss…you?" he asked, his lips hovering over hers, brushing his nose against hers gently. She could feel his warm breath on her skin, sending shivers down her spine. The anticipation built up inside her, making her heart race even faster.
She closed her eyes, moving her face closer to his until their lips finally touched. The moment was electric, a perfect fusion of desire and tenderness. Their kiss was soft yet passionate, a dance of intertwined souls. Time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in the intoxicating taste of each other's lips. It was a moment of pure bliss—a connection that transcended words and ignited a fire within them both.
The kiss continued but remained gentle his hand held her face tenderly, his thumb gently caressing her cheek as their lips remained locked in a sweet, gentle embrace. Their bodies pressed closer together, sharing the rhythm of their heart as they caressed each other's cheeks innocently. They were completely consumed by the intensity of their emotions as if nothing else in the world mattered. The world around them faded away, leaving only the two of them in their own little bubble of love and desire.
After what felt like an eternity, the kiss began to end but not entirely leaving each other's lips just yet. They began giving themselves sweet pecks before finally pulling away, their foreheads resting against each other. The air was thick with a mix of passion and anticipation as they exchanged a knowing smile, their hearts still racing from the intimate connection they had just shared.
Their lips met once more as more, this time with a different kind of kiss—a gentle and tender one. Their mouths moved in perfect harmony, their tongues dancing in a slow and sensual rhythm. It was a kiss filled with love and tenderness, a kiss that spoke volumes without the need for words. They lost themselves in the moment, forgetting about everything else around them. Time seemed to stand still as they explored each other's lips, savoring every taste and sensation. As their lips finally parted, they couldn't help but let out a soft sigh of contentment. Their eyes locked, conveying a deep sense of connection and understanding.
After a nearly twelve-hour flight, Jun Pyo's private plane began to descend into Noumea, New Caledonia—a French territory in the South Pacific known for its stunning turquoise waters and lush tropical landscapes. Ga Eul and Jan Di eagerly looked out of the window with excitement while Jun Pyo, Yi Jung, Ji Hoo, and Woo Bin, who had been there before, it wasn't new to them since the island belonged to Jun Pyo's family, and they had visited multiple times in the past. As the plane touched down on the runway, the group could already feel the warm breeze and smell the fragrant scent of tropical flowers in the air. They were greeted by friendly staff from Jun Pyo's family estate, who whisked them away to a luxurious villa nestled amidst palm trees and overlooking a pristine beach.
…
The staff showed them to their rooms, which were floating on water and were elegantly decorated with a touch of traditional island charm. Each room had floor-to-ceiling windows that offered breathtaking views of the crystal-clear ocean. The group couldn't help but be mesmerized by the sight of colorful fish swimming beneath their feet. After settling in, they made their way to the open-air dining area, where a feast of local delicacies awaited them. The aroma of freshly grilled seafood and exotic spices filled the air, making their mouths water in anticipation. As they savored each bite, they began making plans to visit the island.
"I will show you around," Gu Jun Pyo offered, rising from his seat with a smile. "It's still in the afternoon; the scenery will be good, and we can catch the sunset from the highest point on the island," he suggested. The group eagerly agreed, excited to explore and capture the picturesque views that awaited them.
As the group set off, Ji Hoo took Jan Di by her waist to the side and offered her his camera, as he had promised her earlier. "Here, you can use my camera to capture all the beautiful moments," Ji Hoo said with a warm smile. He wrapped it around her neck while he kissed her cheek. "I will teach you how to use it properly so that you can take stunning photographs," he added.
The group browsed the traditional shops, buying souvenirs and immersing themselves in the local culture. Jan Di eagerly snapped photos of colorful trinkets and unique handicrafts, her excitement evident in every click of the camera. Ji Hoo watched her with admiration and a smile playing on his lips, knowing that these photographs would forever hold the memories of their unforgettable adventure.
"Ji Hoo-ah, how did Jan Di get a hold of your camera?" Woo Bin nudged him playfully, breaking Ji Hoo's reverie.
Ji Hoo chuckled and shrugged; his eyes still fixed on Jan Di as she continued capturing the essence of the bustling market. "I guess she couldn't resist the temptation," he replied. Woo Bin shook his head in mock disbelief, but deep down, he understood the allure of freezing moments in time through a lens.
"You gave it to her?" Ji Hoo shook his head, a mischievous smile playing on his lips.
"No, she just…borrowed it without asking," he admitted, lying, his voice filled with fondness. Woo Bin laughed, realizing that Jan Di's impulsive nature was part of what made her so endearing to Ji Hoo.
"Hey!" Ga Eul tugged Jan Di to the side. "Whose camera is that? I've never seen you with it before." Jan Di grinned mischievously, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Oh, this? It's Ji Hoo Sunbae's," she replied nonchalantly, as if borrowing someone else's camera was a perfectly normal thing to do.
Ga Eul raised an eyebrow skeptically but couldn't help but be intrigued by the possibilities that lay within the small device. "Well, since you have it now, why don't we go on a little adventure?" she suggested, her voice filled with anticipation.
Jan Di's eyes widened with excitement as she nodded eagerly. The two friends set off, their hearts pounding with the thrill of the unknown. With Ji Hoo Sunbae's camera in hand, they were ready to capture every moment of their impromptu adventure and create memories that would last a lifetime.
After leaving the shops, they went to the flower garden. Ga Eul and Jan Di rushed into the garden first, while Jun Pyo, Woo Bin, and Yi Jung tugged along. Ji Hoo disappeared off to the corner, where a small girl of about 10 was selling different kinds of flowers. The small girl seemed to recognize him and immediately rushed to him, hugging him, her face lighting up with joy. Ji Hoo smiled warmly and returned the hug, asking the girl about her day and complimenting her beautiful flowers.
"What kind of flower are you selling today?" he asked, kissing her head while looking at the potted flower.
"It's Lily of the Valley," the girl replied, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Ji Hoo gently took the potted Lily of the Valley in his hands, admiring its delicate white blossoms and sweet fragrance. He couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness recalling Jan Di, who was just across admiring other flowers.
"You should give it to the one you love," the young girl said, picking up another potted lily of the valley and rushing to Jan Di, who was engrossed in other kinds of flowers. The girl tapped on Jan Di's leg to get her attention.
Jan Di turned around, surprised to see the young girl holding out a potted Lily of the Valley towards her. "For me?" she asked, her eyes widening with gratitude. The girl nodded eagerly, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "It's a symbol of love and happiness," she explained, her voice filled with innocence and wisdom beyond her years. Jan Di's heart fluttered as she accepted the gift, feeling a warmth spread through her veins. She couldn't help but think of Ji Hoo and the way he had always made her feel, the two kisses he had given her.
As Jan Di held the delicate white blossoms in her hands, she felt an overwhelming sense of love and appreciation for Ji Hoo. She knew that he will always be there for her, just like these flowers symbolize- love and happiness. With a smile on her face, she turned to find Ji Hoo standing there, his hand holding the same flower, looking at her with a smile on his face. Jan Di's heart skipped a beat as she locked eyes with Ji Hoo. At that moment, she realized that their connection was deeper than she had ever imagined. It was as if the universe had conspired to bring them together, and she couldn't wait to see where their love would take them.
Ji Hoo smiled at the girl's suggestion, realizing that giving Jan Di the Lily of the Valley would be a perfect way to express his feelings.
"Hey!" Jun Pyo approached his best friend, not liking the fact that he and Jan Di had the same flower. "What's going on between you and Jan Di?" Jun Pyo asked, his voice filled with concern. He couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy at the thought of Ji Hoo and Jan Di's connection.
He always knew that one way or another, Ji Hoo would return because he had begun to fall for Jan Di because of the way he protected her even without knowing her, and if Seo Hyun hadn't been in his life, he was sure that these two would get together eventually. But now that Seo Hyun was pursuing her dreams in Paris and she broke up with him, he was sure that Ji Hoo would make his move. He couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that Ji Hoo and Jan Di's bond was growing stronger by the day. It was as if they had a connection that transcended time and space, leaving him feeling like an outsider looking in.
Jun Pyo couldn't shake off the feeling of insecurity, wondering if he was enough for Jan Di compared to Ji Hoo's undeniable charm and connection with her. He found himself constantly comparing himself to Ji Hoo, analyzing every interaction between them. The more he observed, the more he noticed subtle gestures and glances exchanged between Ji Hoo and Jan Di that seemed to speak volumes. Not to mention, when they were getting off the plane, they were the last to get off, and he couldn't help but notice how Ji Hoo's hand lingered on Jan Di's lower back, a gesture that seemed intimate and possessive.
"What kind of flower is this?" Jun Pyo asked, looking at the potted flower in Ji Hoo's hand. "I want to confess to Jan Di about my feelings. Can you help me?" he said trying to provoke him because he knew Jan Di will never turn down Ji Hoo if he asked her to do anything for him.
"I can't help you with that, Jun Pyo." Ji Hoo said, declining his best friend's request. How could he agree to such a request? It was like betraying his own feelings for Jan Di. He couldn't bear the thought of being the one to facilitate their relationship, knowing that it would only cause him heartache in the end.
"Why is that?" Jun Pyo asked, surprised that his own best friend turned him down when he wanted to confess his feelings to Jan Di.
"Because I can't," he replied simply, walking away in a different direction, his heart pounding with a surge of anger.
…
How could he help his friend confess to Jan Di—the girl he had shared his kisses with two times yesterday and today? These kisses were the best he had ever experienced, and he couldn't bear the thought of Jun Pyo being with her instead. Jan Di had agreed to be with him in secret so that the foundation of their relationship could grow stronger without the interference of outside opinions. He wanted to get to know Jan Di inside out and let her know him on a deeper level as well. He knew that their connection was special, and he wanted to cherish every moment they spent together.
"I'm sorry Gu Jun Pyo, I have always sacrificed everything to put up with your wimps. This time I won't allow you to take away another gem of mine," Ji Hoo said firmly to himself, determined to pursue this blossoming love he had with her.
That evening after exploring the island, the group sat to have dinner.
Yi Jung approached Ga Eul when she had two sticks of BBQ meat in her hands. "You've just finished eating food, why are you adding yourself?"
Ga Eul looked at him as if he had gone crazy and said, "Excuse me?"
"You are cute, but guys like us don't like chubby girls. You should eat less."
Ga Eul scoffed at his lame comment and said, "I don't need your approval or your shallow opinions about my body. I eat what I want, and I love myself just the way I am." She confidently took a bite of her BBQ meat, savoring the flavors and relishing in her own self-acceptance. Yi Jung's words may have momentarily stung, but Ga Eul refused to let them define her worth.
Yi Jung shook his head and flashed a grin. He decided to change the subject. "What do you think of Jun Pyo and Jan Di's relationship? Do you think it will work?"
Ga Eul chuckled, amused by Yi Jung's attempt to divert the conversation. She took a moment to savor the delicious taste of the BBQ meat before responding. "Well, Jun Pyo seemed determined, but my friend…" She shook her head, recalling that Jan Di had shared her heart with Ji Hoo and had asked her to keep it a secret.
Ga Eul sighed, realizing that she couldn't reveal the truth about Jan Di's feelings. "My friend is still figuring things out," she finally said, trying to choose her words carefully. "It's a complicated situation, and I think it will take time for them to truly understand each other."
Yi Jung nodded understandingly, taking another bite of his food. "Love is very complicated when it comes to men like us. But Jun Pyo is honest; what is Jan Di hesitating about? Is there someone she likes more than him?"
Ga Eul hesitated for a moment, contemplating how much she should disclose. "I think there might be someone else," she finally admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Yi Jung's eyes widened in surprise, his chopsticks freezing mid-air. "Someone else?" he repeated, his tone laced with curiosity and concern. "Who is it?"
"Nobody. Just mind your business!" Ga Eul bit her tongue and walked away from Yi Jung. Jan Di had asked her to keep it a secret, but her big mouth was always too much that she couldn't keep secrets. As she walked away to look for her friend, she noticed Ji Hoo holding Jan Di's wrist slipping away from the group while fireworks were exploding. Ga Eul's heart skipped a beat as she realized what she had just witnessed. A mix of worry and intrigue washed over her, making her wonder what could be going on between Ji Hoo and Jan Di.
She wanted to follow them, but if she did, she would be intruding on their privacy and potentially jeopardizing her friendship with Jan Di. Ga Eul weighed her options, torn between satisfying her curiosity and respecting their boundaries. Ultimately, she decided to give them their space trusting they will make the right decision.
"Gu Jun Pyo put a lot of effort into making the fireworks for you…" Ji Hoo said laying on the warm sand and Jan Di did the same, their eyes on the sky. "Don't you like fireworks?"
"I find this gesture cliche and predictable," Jan Di replied, a hint of disappointment in her voice. "But I appreciate the effort he put into it." Ji Hoo nodded in understanding, both enjoying the stars glittering in the sky.
"It's such a nice night." Ji Hoo said, breaking the silence. "We shouldn't waste it; let's go for a walk along the beach." Jan Di agreed, and they got up from the sand, their bare feet sinking into the cool grains. As they strolled along the shore, the sound of crashing waves filled the air, creating a soothing melody. The moon cast a gentle glow on the water, illuminating their path. They walked in comfortable silence, occasionally exchanging glances, and smiles. Jan Di couldn't help but feel grateful for Ji Hoo's presence. Lost in her thoughts, Jan Di suddenly stumbled upon a seashell buried in the sand. She picked it up and examined its intricate patterns before handing it to Ji Hoo with a smile. "A little token of appreciation," she said softly. Ji Hoo's eyes sparkled with gratitude as he accepted the gift with his fingers.
"And I have something to give you." Ji Hoo said, taking her wrist and leading her to an old-looking boat. He led her to sit on the boat and handed her the potted plant, the Lily of the Valley. "For you," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. Jan Di's eyes widened in surprise as she delicately took the potted plant in her hands. The sweet fragrance of the lily of the Valley filled the air, creating a moment of enchantment between them.
"Why did you give me this?" Jan Di asked, her voice filled with curiosity and wonder. Ji Hoo smiled softly, his eyes reflecting a mixture of fondness and nostalgia.
"Because" he began, his voice gentle yet resolute, "the Lily of the Valley symbolizes happiness and the return of joy. It represents the hope that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of light waiting to guide us."
"Oh," she replied, pulling out the same kind of flower and giving it to him. "Before you accept it…can I ask you a question?" Ji Hoo's eyes sparkled with anticipation as he took the Lily of the Valley from Di's outstretched hand. He nodded, encouraging her to proceed with her question.
"Of course," he said warmly, his voice laced with curiosity.
Jan Di hesitated for a moment, her brows furrowing slightly as she carefully chose her words. "Why did you return from Paris? Why didn't you pursue Min Seo Hyun? I thought you loved…her…I mean, love her."
Ji Hoo's smile faded slightly, his gaze shifting as he contemplated Jan Di's question. A hint of melancholy crept into his voice as he began to unravel the depths of his emotions. "Min Seo Hyun... she was my first love, and I did love her deeply. But sometimes, love isn't enough to sustain a relationship. Paris taught me that there is more to life than just chasing after someone who may not be meant for you."
He paused, his eyes searching Jan Di's face for understanding. "I realized that what truly matters is finding someone who loves you for who you are, someone who accepts your flaws and embraces your dreams. And when I returned from Paris, I saw that person in front of me." Ji Hoo's voice grew softer as he continued, a gentle warmth enveloping his words. "Jan Di, it was you. You captured my heart with your warmth and kindness from the time I met you, and you make me feel alive and complete. A better man comes out of me when you are around. You bring out the best in me, inspiring me to strive for greatness and pushing me to become a better version of myself. Your presence fills my life with joy and purpose. And I want to get to know you better and explore this."
Jan Di leaned in to kiss his cheek. "Before I met you…" Jan Di began to say, "Before I met you, my world was dull and colorless. All I cared about was protecting my family and my best friend, but when I first saw you, I felt like my engine had been turning on, and butterflies started fluttering in my stomach. Ga Eul told me before that when you like someone, you are willing to see them happy. It doesn't necessarily mean you are supposed to be with them, but if they are happy, you are happy too. And that's exactly how I feel about you. Seeing you smile and knowing that you're happy brings me more joy than anything else in the world. You've brought so much color and excitement into my life, and I'm grateful every day that I met you." She finished and kissed his cheek once more. "I love you, Sunbae," she whispered softly.
Ji Hoo looked at her with a mixture of surprise and affection in his eyes. He had never expected to hear those words from her, but they filled his heart with warmth and happiness. "Thank you, Jan Di." Ji Hoo said, drawing her closer to him and kissing her forehead gently. "You have no idea how much those words mean to me," he murmured.
"Are you free tomorrow?"
"Yes, why?"
"I want to go out on another date…with you." Jan Di replied with a shy smile.
Ji Hoo smiled, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "I would love that," he said, his voice filled with anticipation. "Let's make tomorrow even more special than today."
The following day, the sun was bright on the island, and Jan Di decided to wear a white floral cami top with white high-waisted shorts and a pair of strappy sandals. She tied her hair up in a loose bun, allowing a few strands to frame her face, and secretly went to Ji Hoo's room to invite him for their date. As she knocked on his door, her heart raced with anticipation. She couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement at the thought of spending the day with Ji Hoo. They had agreed to go on a date but hadn't discussed the time they would go or the activities they would do. Jan Di hoped that Ji Hoo would be as thrilled about this date as she was. As the door opened, Jan Di was greeted by Ji Hoo's warm smile. He looked handsome in a light blue button-down shirt and khaki pants. Jan Di couldn't help but blush at his charming appearance.
"Hi, Sunbae," she said nervously, "I was wondering if you'd like to go on our date now?"
Ji Hoo smiled with excitement and invited her into his room. He looked around before closing the door behind them, creating an intimate atmosphere. The room was adorned with paintings and musical instruments, reflecting Ji Hoo's artistic soul. Jan Di couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder as she took in the beauty of his personal space.
"Where did you get the time to bring all this?" she asked him.
"This is my usual room every time Gu Jun Pyo invites us to come here for a vacation," Ji Hoo explained. "I like to surround myself with things that inspire me and bring me joy." Jan Di nodded, impressed by his dedication to his passions. "Where would you like to go?" she asked him.
"You see, I don't know this place better than you do. I trust your judgment." Ji Hoo smiled, appreciating her trust in him. "Well," he began, "there's a hidden gem not too far from here. It's a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and untouched white sand. It's the perfect place to relax and escape from...you know…Jun Pyo and the others. They are still resting after all the alcohol they had last night."
Flashback…
After Ji Hoo bid Jan Di goodnight, Jun Pyo approached Jan Di, asking where she had been and why she was spending time with Ji Hoo. Jan Di, not wanting to reveal their secret getaway, simply shrugged and said, "I had gone out for a walk, and I happened to find him. So, we ended up talking for a while."
Jun Pyo's eyes narrowed suspiciously, but he didn't press the matter further. He had been acting possessive lately, and Jan Di needed a break from his overbearing nature. He then approached to hug her, but Jan Di backed away slightly, her body language conveying her need for personal space. Jun Pyo's face fell, hurt by her rejection, but he quickly masked his emotions with a forced smile.
"It's getting late, goodnight," he said, turning away.
"Gu Jun Pyo…wait…" Jan Di tried to stop him, trying to tell him her true feelings, but Jun Pyo knew exactly what she wanted to say because he was aware that she loved his best friend but before she rejected him, he still had one more ace on the sleeves that he wanted to play. He turned back towards her, his eyes filled with determination.
Present…
Jan Di's eyes sparkled with excitement as she imagined the serene beauty of the beach. "That sounds amazing," she replied eagerly.
"Let's go there and create our own little paradise." Ji Hoo nodded, his heart filled with anticipation for their upcoming adventure.
As Jan Di and Ji Hoo made their way to the hidden beach, they couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The path leading to the beach was lined with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, creating a picturesque backdrop for their adventure. When they finally arrived at the secluded beach, they were greeted by a breathtaking sight.
The crystal-clear waters sparkled under the warm sun, inviting them to take a dip and wash away any lingering stress or worries. The untouched white sand felt soft beneath their feet as they walked along the shoreline, enjoying the peacefulness of their surroundings.
"What shall we eat?" she asked him not seeing anything like a market or a restaurant.
"I prepared something for us," he replied, smiling. He reached out and took her wrist, leading her to the raft that was waiting by the shoreline. As they stepped onto the raft, a gentle breeze brushed against their faces, carrying with it the scent of saltwater and adventure. The raft glided effortlessly across the crystal-clear waters, offering them a panoramic view of the picturesque coastline. They marveled at the vibrant coral reefs beneath them, teeming with an array of colorful fish and marine life. "Did you bring the camera I gave you?"
"Yes I did," she replied, dipping her hand in her leather crossbody bag and taking it out. "It's here,"
"Can you please turn off your phone? I don't want anyone disturbing us during this magical experience," he requested. She nodded and reached into her bag again, silencing her phone and placing it on airplane mode. With the distractions eliminated, they could fully immerse themselves in the beauty surrounding them. The gentle breeze tousled their hair as they continued their journey along the coastline, giving them a sense of freedom and tranquility that only nature could provide. As they floated further away from civilization, the sounds of civilization faded into the distance, replaced by the soothing melody of lapping waves against the raft's wooden frame. They exchanged glances filled with awe and contentment, knowing that this adventure was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with nature on a profound level. The vastness of the ocean stretched out before them, its vast blue expanse merging seamlessly with the sky above.
At this moment, they felt small yet connected to something greater than themselves. It was a humbling reminder of the world's beauty and its place within it. "Let's eat something while we enjoy this beautiful scenery," Ji Hoo suggested, pointing at the small, wooded table and the picnic basket that Jan Di had overlooked in their excitement. Jan Di smiled and nodded, grateful for the reminder to take a moment and appreciate not only the grandeur of nature but also the simple joys of sharing a meal in such a breathtaking setting.
…
"Sunbae, this place is beautiful," Jan Di exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with awe.
Ji Hoo chuckled softly, his gaze never leaving her face. "Yes, it truly is," he replied, his voice filled with admiration. They sat down at the table, their hearts full of gratitude for the chance to experience such a magical moment together.
Ji Hoo opened the basket and revealed a delicious spread of homemade sandwiches, fresh fruits, and a bottle of sparkling water. The aroma of the food mingled with the crisp mountain air, enhancing their appetite, and making the meal even more enticing.
"Let's eat," Ji Hoo handed her the sandwich, her hand brushing his as she took it. They exchanged smiles, savoring not just the taste of the food but also the joy of sharing this intimate picnic in such a breathtaking setting.
"Where is Jan Di?" Jun Pyo asked the staff on the island.
"Ji Hoo is also missing," Yi Jung said after returning from Ji Hoo's room, his expression filled with concern. "I saw him earlier this morning, but he hasn't been seen since. I hope he's all right." Jan Di and Ji Hoo had been spending a lot of time together lately, and Jun Pyo couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. He had always wanted to show Jan Di his true feelings, but he hasn't had a chance to confess them because he normally freaks out. Now, seeing her grow closer to Ji Hoo made him realize just how much he wanted her but was losing her.
As the hours passed without any sign of Ji Hoo or Jan Di, the worry in Jun Pyo's heart grew stronger. He couldn't shake off the feeling that something was wrong. Yi Jung tried to reassure him, suggesting that they might have gone off on their own adventure or gotten lost in the vastness of the island. But deep down, Jun Pyo couldn't shake off the nagging sense of unease. Just as they were about to organize a search party, Ji Hoo came out of nowhere, a relieved smile on his face. He explained that he and Jan Di had gotten caught in a sudden rainstorm and had taken shelter in a nearby cave until it passed. Jun Pyo's worry instantly transformed into relief, but he couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy at the thought of Ji Hoo being alone with Jan Di in such an intimate setting.