Hi, I am here again with chapter 3 of this story of mine. Thank you for your comments, following this story and me. I deeply appreciate it since you put aside your few minutes to read this.
Disclaimer: I do not own Boys over Flowers characters.
Before the downpour.
As Ji Hoo and Jan Di enjoyed the cool breeze of the New Caledonian waters, Ji Hoo smiled and took off his shirt, revealing his toned physique.
Jan Di could not help but blush as she admired his chiseled abs and muscular arms. The sun's rays glistened on his skin, making him even more irresistible in her eyes.
"I love swimming; it's one of my favorite hobbies," he said, approaching her. He looked at her white floral tank top and the shorts. He got down on his knees and unbuckled the straps of her sandals, gently sliding them off her feet.
Jan Di felt a rush of warmth as his fingers grazed against her skin, causing her heart to flutter. "I know you love swimming; let's go swimming together," he suggested, extending his hand to hers.
Jan Di smiled, and without hesitation, she took his hand and allowed him to lead her to the waters, but instead of jumping in together, he scooped her up in his arms and led her to the edge of the raft. With a mischievous grin, he playfully tossed her into the water, causing her to squeal with delight. As she resurfaced, she could not help but laugh at his playful antics, splashing water at him in retaliation.
Ji Hoo could not help but smile and began to swim toward her while she grinned and swam away. With grace, he effortlessly glided through the water, closing the distance between them. Ji Hoo reached out and gently grabbed her hand, pulling her closer to him. Their eyes locked, and at that moment, his eyes filled with adoration he had never felt for anyone before. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her in for a tender embrace, their wet bodies pressing against each other. Her hands settled on his bare chest, leaning her forehead against his and feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. She also enjoyed the feel of his skin against her palms, and her eyes instantly closed as she savored the intimate connection between them. At that moment, all their worries and insecurities seemed to fade away, leaving only the warmth and comfort of their embrace.
Ji Hoo on the hand, his hand was grazing her back in gentle strokes, tracing the contours of her spine and her waist. Due to the fact they were in the water, he could see her round, firm breasts through her tank top, and her nipples had slightly hardened from the coolness of the water. Ji Hoo could not help but feel a surge of desire, making him yearn for more intimate moments with her. He desperately wanted to lean in and take them into his mouth, but their relationship was still young, and he did not want to rush or make her uncomfortable. He respected her boundaries and cherished the slow, gradual progression of their connection. Ji Hoo knew that building a strong foundation of trust and emotional intimacy was essential before exploring the depths of their physical desires.
His eyes then traveled to those cherry lips of hers, which always was teasingly close yet just out of reach. The way they curled into a playful smile or parted slightly when she laughed sent a surge of longing through him. Ji Hoo found himself captivated by the thought of tasting those lips. He decided to lean in to steal a kiss, but as he did so, a splash of water and her laughter interrupted the moment. Startled, Ji Hoo pulled back, realizing that their playful banter was all part of the innocent fun they shared. He could not help but smile,
Jan Di's laughter echoed through the air as she swam away from him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. She began playfully splashing water on his face, which turned into a sweet and affectionate water fight. Ji Hoo, being strong and tall, swam swiftly towards her, catching her off guard and lifting her u in his arms. Their laughter filled the air as they continued their playful water fight, completely lost in the joy of the moment and hardly noticing a heavy downpour approaching.
"There is a cave nearby; let's go find shelter before it gets strong." Ji Hoo suggested it as he noticed the dark clouds rolling in. They quickly swam toward their floating raft and grabbed their towels and belongings. Ji Hoo sailed them to the nearest shore, where they found the entrance to the cave. As they entered, the sound of raindrops hitting the ground grew louder, but inside the cave, they were protected from the elements. The dim light filtering through the cracks in the rocks created a cozy atmosphere, adding to their sense of adventure and excitement.
Jan Di rubbed her hands on her arms to warm herself up, feeling a slight chill in the cave. She glanced around, taking in the stalactites and stalagmites that adorned the walls, fascinated by the natural beauty surrounding them. "Hey," Ji Hoo said, coming up to her, rubbing his hands over her arms, and embracing her gently. "Are you feeling cold?" he asked with concern, his warm touch instantly providing her with comfort.
Jan Di smiled gratefully, appreciating Ji Hoo's thoughtfulness amid their thrilling exploration. She wrapped her arms around his waist, and before she could lean into his chest, Ji Hoo leaned down and planted a gentle kiss on her forehead, then on her eyes, and finally on her lips.
Time stood still as his lips brushed against hers, slowly but surely wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her closer. And instead of feeling cold, Jan Di felt a rush of warmth wash over her melting away the coldness between them.
The kiss he was giving her was tender and soft. He did not want to deepen it, but he did not want it to end so soon either. He skillfully kissed her, savoring the taste of her lips and the way her body fit perfectly against his while his hands altered from her back to her waist to her hair, gently caressing the strands as the kiss continued and finally settling his hand on her face and back. Jan Di's heart raced with each touch, her body responding to his every move. Her heart raced as she reciprocated the kiss, her hands instinctively finding their way to his chest and feeling the steady beat beneath her fingertips. The intensity of their connection grew with each passing moment, making her forget about the heavy downpour of rain.
Ji Hoo could feel Jan Di trying her best to respond to the kiss he was giving her since she did not know so much about it. They had started their relationship two days ago and were still exploring each other's boundaries. Ji Hoo's patience and gentle guidance made Jan Di feel safe and comfortable, allowing her to let go of her inhibitions and fully embrace the passion between them.
After some time, Jan Di felt like she could hardly breathe—like he was sucking all the air out of her lungs with each lingering kiss. She pulled away slightly, needing a moment to catch her breath and gather her strength properly.
"What's the matter? Didn't you like it?" Ji Hoo asked, his voice filled with concern.
Jan Di smiled, her cheeks flushed with a mix of desire and anticipation. "No, it's not that," she replied softly. "It's just...you have this effect on me, Ji Hoo. You make me feel so alive; it's almost overwhelming that I nearly forget how to breathe."
Jan Di's words hung in the air, a testament to the intensity of their connection. Ji Hoo's eyes softened, understanding the weight of her emotions. "I feel the same way," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "Being with you takes my breath away too."
At that moment, she knew she was exactly where she belonged—in his arms, lost in the intoxicating bliss of their connection.
After the rain had stopped, Ji Hoo and Jan Di left the island and took a tour of the Amedee lighthouse. They climbed to the top, marveling at the breathtaking view of the crystal-clear waters below. "Oh wow!" Jan Di exclaimed. "What a beautiful sight! It puts me in the mood to recite poetry and express the overwhelming emotions that this scenery evokes."
Ji Hoo smiled and patiently waited for her to produce a short poem for the scenery.
Jan Di closed her eyes, allowing the tranquility of the moment to inspire her words. With a gentle whisper, she began reciting a heartfelt poem:
"In this realm of nature's splendor, where the heavens meet the sea, A symphony of colors dances, as if in harmony with me. The sun-kissed waves are a gentle caress upon the sandy shore, And as I stand here in awe, my soul yearns for something more."
Her poem captured the essence of their surroundings, leaving Ji Hoo in awe of her poetic talent.
Ji Hoo clapped his hands softly, a smile spreading across his face. "That was beautiful," he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "You have such a gift for capturing the beauty of the world in your words."
"I learned a bit of it, and you? What poem would you like to give this scenery?" Jan Di asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity in her voice.
"I honestly have two poems one is about the water lilies, and the other is about a small otter," he replied with a grin and approached the balcony as well, facing her. "The water lilies poem is filled with serene imagery and delicate metaphors, while the otter poem is more playful and energetic," he explained, his excitement evident in his voice. "Which one would you like to hear?"
"Both of them sound intriguing," Jan Di replied, her curiosity growing. "I would love to hear the water lilies poem first, as it seems like it would create a calming atmosphere in this beautiful scenery. And then we can move on to the otter poem for a touch of playfulness." She smiled, eager to experience the beauty of his words in this picturesque setting.
"OK," he said, taking her hand while looking into her eyes and beginning to recite the poem with a gentle and soothing tone.
"In a pond so serene, where lilies dance in the breeze, their petals like brushes, painting tranquility with ease. As the sun sets, their colors blend and glow, reflecting the beauty of nature's own show.
Jan Di listened intently, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. The words painted vivid images in her mind, transporting her to the tranquil world described in the poem.
"The otters frolic and play, their joyful antics adding to the scene as if they were the stars of this picturesque dream. The water glistens, mirroring the moon's soft light, casting a magical glow that feels just right." As he finished reciting, she could not help but clap her hands in awe.
"Wow!"
"Do you know why I decided to recite these two poems?" he asked, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
She shook her head, curious to hear his reasoning.
"Because you are part of this breathtaking scenery."
"I—I don't understand. What do you mean?" she asked.
"You are like the water lilies on a summer's eve, delicate and enchanting. Just like the poems describe, you bring a sense of magic and beauty to my life."
Jan Di blushed and asked, "And the otter in the second poem, what does it symbolize?" She inquired, eager to unravel the deeper meaning behind his choice of words. He smiled softly, his eyes gleaming with affection. "The otter represents playfulness and joy, just like you bring into my life. It symbolizes the happiness and laughter we share."
"Thank you, Sunbae," Jan Di said, her voice filled with gratitude. "Your words and the symbolism behind them make me feel truly special and cherished." She reached out and gently touched his hand and kissed his lips softly a gesture of appreciation. The warmth of his touch and the tenderness of their kiss conveyed a depth of connection that words could not express.
…
Meanwhile, back on the beach, Ga Eul occupied herself with taking some selfies with the beautiful beach scenery in the background.
It was certainly not every day that she was in such an amazing place, and she wanted to document it fully. She struck various poses—at all different angles—while attempting to get the most background that she could. She sprawled out upon the white sand and held out her phone while winking and making kissy faces at the camera.
While outstretched upon the beach, Ga Eul glanced briefly to her right and noticed So Yi Jeong approaching her. He was dressed all in white and was coolly strolling up to her—one hand in the pocket and grinning.
"You're putting forth a lot of effort…," Yi Jeong commented when he came in range. He was still grinning at her like the Cheshire Cat.
What does he want?!
Ga Eul quickly stood. She scowled at Yi Jeong over her shoulder, as she hastily walked away from him.
Sure, he was attractive, but Chu Ga Eul was not so easily swayed by a pretty face… She was still perturbed with him for tricking her and worrying her about Jun Pyo's intentions for Jan Di… not to mention insinuating that she was eating too much and would get chubby...
Ga Eul waded into the water and got into a paddle boat, hoping to escape the gorgeous Casanova at sea. But he continued to follow her. He gave the boat a little push and hopped in beside her.
Ga Eul tightened her mouth. "Why are you following me?"
Yi Jeong simply grinned. "You won't be able to handle it on your own…though your legs look strong enough…," He glanced down at her shapely limbs and folded his arms.
Ga Eul tossed him a subtle sneer, unsure whether his comment was meant as a compliment or an insult.
"So, shall we finish our conversation from before?" he asked.
"What conversation?" Ga Eul replied, her eyebrows furrowing in confusion. "I don't recall having any conversation with you."
"About Jan Di liking another man instead of Gu Jun Pyo?"
"I don't know what you are talking about," she replied, biting her tongue. She wondered why she couldn't keep a simple secret for her best friend without this person finding out. It was frustrating to think that her words could easily be used against her. She knew Ji Hoo was Jan Di's first and only love, but Jun Pyo was trying his best to win her over. Ga Eul had hoped to spare Jan Di's feelings by keeping this information to herself, but it seemed like someone had caught wind of it. She couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for betraying her friend's trust, even unintentionally.
"Is it someone I know?" Yi Jung pried further, trying to get the information, and he had a suspect in mind but didn't want to jump to conclusions.
"No, you don't," Ga Eul blurted out once more, feeling the pressure to reveal the truth. She quickly realized her slip-up and bit her lip, regretting her hasty response. The tension grew as Yi Jung's curiosity intensified, leaving Ga Eul torn between protecting Jan Di's secret and satisfying Yi Jung's curiosity.
"I bet he is some commoner... Also, I know a little about women, and Jan Di seems to be the type who is attracted to bad boys…" he commented, trying to get the inside scoop from Ga Eul. Sensing Yi Jung's persistence, Ga Eul carefully chose her words, "Ridiculous! Well, you do not know as much as you think… Jan Di happens to like nice guys. And not last...?" Ga Eul scoffed. "That man you call a bad boy could very well be Jan Di's soulmate!"
A sardonic smile crossed Yi Jeong's lips. "Soulmate, huh?" How naïve... "You really believe in such a thing...?"
Ga Eul studied Yi Jeong for a moment. The way he said that with such disdain; he almost sounded jaded.
They say that a strong no is a yes, and Ga Eul wondered if that applied to F4's Casanova here... For some reason, she suspected that there was much more to him below the surface… Underneath that exterior—cool and smooth as steel—there lurked a child inside, one who simply wanted to be loved... And despite how difficult it was to believe, perhaps So Yi Jeong had even fallen in love at one time… Had he been deeply hurt? If she peeled back that extra layer of detachment and bravado, would she discover that there was more to So Yi Jeong than a cold-hearted Casanova…?
Or did she simply want there to be…?
Ga Eul tore herself from her reverie. "Of course, I do. A playboy like you would not understand the concept… But there is one perfect person out there for everyone…"
Yi Jeong folded his arms tighter. "So, have you met your soulmate, Ga Eul-yang?" He had to admit that he was a bit curious, even if it was a ridiculous notion.
"No," she replied, "but when I do...," she raised her eyes skyward, dreamily. "I'm not going to let him go... because if I did, I would regret it for the rest of my life…"
Ga Eul turned to Yi Jeong when he said nothing. He was suddenly staring out with a faraway look in his eyes. "Yah, start peddling! I have been doing it on my own this whole time!" she exclaimed.
The corners of Yi Jeong's mouth twitched slightly, and he began to peddle. 'I think it's Yoon Ji Hoo. Who else could treat Jan Di as a girl, not a commoner?'
…
Ji Hoo walked Jan Di to her cottage to change, although their clothes were dry. They lingered there at the entrance of her room since neither of them wanted to let the other go away. They stood in silence, their eyes locked, feeling the weight of an unspoken connection between them. Reluctantly, Ji Hoo finally broke the silence and softly whispered, "I wish we could stay like this forever."
"We could always do this again. Because today was magical.," she replied her voice filled with longing.
"Thank you for today. I had a wonderful time." Ji Hoo said, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her to him.
Jan Di flushed and slowly wrapped her arms around his neck with a sweet smile on her face, feeling a warmth spread through her. She leaned in closer, their foreheads touching, and whispered, "I don't want this day to end either, but someone might see us since we've been out for so long."
"Let's meet this evening..." he said, kissing her lips softly before continuing, "I want to spend more time with you, just the two of us. We can find a quiet place where no one will interrupt us." Jan Di blushed even deeper, her heart fluttering at his words. She nodded eagerly, her eyes shining with anticipation for their secret rendezvous.
Their lips met once more, but the moment was interrupted by quick footsteps. They pulled away immediately to see Ga Eul standing there with a worried expression on her face. "I'm sorry to interrupt," Ga Eul said, catching her breath, "but I overheard you two talking, and I think it's important that you know..."
"What is it?" Ji Hoo asked.
"You guys disappeared off in the morning, and Gu Jun Pyo will suspect you if you don't return soon," Ga Eul said urgently. "He's been asking about your whereabouts, and I think he's starting to suspect something is going on between the two of you." Ji Hoo and Jan Di exchanged worried glances, realizing the gravity of the situation. They knew they had to come up with a plan quickly to avoid any complications with Gu Jun Pyo.
Ji Hoo returned his gaze to Jan Di, kissing her forehead, and said, "I will handle him. Go and get changed before you catch a cold."
Jan Di nodded while Ji Hoo handed her the crossbody bag she had brought with her to their date. "And the camera?"
"It's in the bag. Make sure you hide the camera well."
"I will hide it for you," Ga Eul chimed in with a determined look on her face. "Gu Jun Pyo only cares about what Jan Di does; he won't check on me or suspect anything."
Ji Hoo smiled gratefully at Ga Eul and said, "Thank you, Ga Eul. I trust you to keep it safe."
With a reassuring nod, Ga Eul took the bag from Jan Di and promised to protect the camera. "Jan Di, go get changed. I'm going to my room."
"Thank you, Ga Eul; I love you the most." Jan Di grinned, hugging her best friend.
Ga Eul returned the hug and whispered, "I love you too, Jan Di. We'll make sure everything goes smoothly." With that, Jan Di headed off to change while Ga Eul made her way to her room, determined to keep the camera safe.
Present…
"Jan Di asked me to take her on a tour since you were sleeping." Ji Hoo replied, his consciousness eating him up. He felt guilt for loving Jan Di but didn't at the same time since she chose him over Gu Jun Pyo.
"So…did anything happen between the two of you in that cave?" Jun Pyo asked with a trace of jealousy in his voice.
"No…nothing happened," he replied, lying. "I might catch a cold if I stay in these clothes," he said, changing the subject and quickly diverting the conversation away from his feelings for Jan Di. He hoped that by focusing on something trivial like his clothes, Jun Pyo would drop the topic and not press any further about what happened in the cave.
As the group ate dinner, Gu Jun Pyo couldn't shake off his insecurities and continued to wonder what happened between Jan Di and his friend. He couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy, fearing that there might be something more going on behind his back. Despite his attempts to distract himself, the uneasiness lingered in his mind, casting a shadow over their otherwise enjoyable evening.
"So," Jun Pyo began, casting a glance at Jan Di, who seemed to be looking ahead, but actually her eyes were on Ji Hoo, who was looking at her as well with a secret smile. As the conversation carried on, Jun Pyo couldn't shake off the nagging suspicion that there was a hidden connection between Jan Di and Ji Hoo. The subtle exchanges and lingering glances only fueled his growing unease, leaving him desperate for answers but unsure of how to confront the situation.
"Geum Jan Di?" Woo Bin spoke in a low voice, breaking the tense silence that had settled over the group. Everyone turned to look at Jan Di, who shifted uncomfortably under their gazes. "Is there something you want to tell us?" Woo Bin asked, his tone laced with suspicion.
"Did our friend Ji Hoo show you around the island?" Yi Jung added, trying to confirm his suspicions about her and Ji Hoo's relationship. Jan Di hesitated, her eyes darting between the two of them, before finally mustering the courage to speak. "Yes," she admitted softly, her voice barely audible. "Ji Hoo did show me around, but it was purely platonic. Nothing is going on between us if that's what's on your mind." The group exchanged glances, their expressions skeptical yet curious, as they wondered if Jan Di was telling the truth.
"Yes," Ji Hoo said in a calm and reassuring tone, "Jan Di is right. We're just friends, and there's nothing romantic between us." His words seemed to alleviate some of the tension in the air, but a lingering doubt still remained among the group. They couldn't help but wonder if there was more to the story than what Jan Di and Ji Hoo were letting on.
"Geum Jan Di, I have somewhere to take you tomorrow," Jun Pyo said. It was his last chance to express his feelings to her, hoping she would like him back. The group exchanged curious glances, unsure of what Jun Pyo had planned. They couldn't help but wonder if this outing would finally reveal the true nature of Jan Di and Jun Pyo's relationship.
"OK," she replied, simply hoping to calm their minds, but she preferred to go out with Ji Hoo instead.
…
After dinner, the group enjoyed parting and dancing, and once again, Ji Hoo and Jan Di were missing. None of the guys had noticed, which was good since they both had the same excuse that they were tired from the long day.
Ji Hoo and Jan Di walked across the bridge in silence while holding hands. Enjoying the lotus in the pond and the peaceful atmosphere around them. As they strolled, Ji Hoo broke the silence. "It's cold out there by the beach; we should talk more in my room, where it's warm and cozy," he suggested.
"Sure," Jan Di replied with a smile. They continued walking, their hands tightly intertwined, as they made their way to Ji Hoo's room. The anticipation of what they would talk about filled the air and both couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the intimate conversation that awaited them.
The room was dimly lit with soft, warm hues that created a soothing atmosphere. Ji Hoo gestured for Jan Di to take a seat on the plush, comfortable couch while he poured them both cups of steaming hot tea. The flickering candlelight added a touch of romance to the room, setting the perfect ambiance for their heartfelt conversation.
"Where were we...before your best friend interrupted?" Ji Hoo asked, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He handed her the tea he had brewed.
Jan Di chuckled, her eyes sparkling with anticipation as she leaned in closer, ready to continue their interrupted conversation. She took a sip of the tea and savored its warmth, feeling a sense of comfort wash over her. The fragrant aroma of the tea filled the air, enhancing the intimate atmosphere between them. "What type of tea is this?"
Ji Hoo's smile widened as he watched Jan Di enjoy the tea. "It's a special blend of chamomile and lavender," he revealed, his voice gentle. "I thought it would help us relax and unwind after a long day."
"Do you always travel with tea species?"
Jan Di asked, a hint of curiosity in her voice. Ji Hoo chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Not always," he replied, "but I like to be prepared for moments like these. Tea has a way of bringing people together and creating a sense of tranquility."
This is indeed a nice tea," she said, taking a sip once more. "I've heard that...
"To enjoy tea depends on the mood you're in," Ji Hoo interrupted, a thoughtful expression on his face. "To enjoy fully, you need to relax your mind and let go of any worries or stress. It's about being present in the moment and savoring the flavors and aromas that tea has to offer."
"You're right," she replied, nodding in agreement.
Ji Hoo smiled, taking both their cups, and placing them gently on the table. He inched closer to her and kissed her cheek. "Remember what we said earlier about getting to know each other more?" he asked, leaning in, and kissing her lips softly. She blushed and nodded, feeling a rush of excitement. "Yes, I remember," she whispered, her heart fluttering with anticipation.
"If Jun Pyo asked you to be his girlfriend, would you agree?"
Ji Hoo's question hung in the air, causing her to pause and consider her response. She looked into his eyes, searching for the right words. "While I appreciate Jun Pyo's feelings, I believe it's important for me to make my own decision based on what I truly want," she replied confidently. Ji Hoo smiled, understanding, and respecting her answer.
"I'm glad. It gives me hope that you're not easily swayed by others' opinions and that you value your own happiness," Ji Hoo said, kissing her once more. She felt a warmth spread through her, knowing that she had made the right choice in confiding in him. Gently, he laid her head on the couch pillow and cupped her face in his hand while tracing a thumb on her lower lip.
"I will teach you something."
"What is it?" She inquired while wrapping her arm around his neck.
"Have you ever heard of a French kiss?" Ji Hoo asked with a mischievous glint in his eyes. She blushed, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. "It's a passionate and intimate way of kissing," he explained, his voice filled with anticipation. "Would you like me to show you?"
"OK," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. She could feel her heart racing as she looked into his eyes, unable to resist the temptation. Ji Hoo leaned in closer, their lips almost touching, and whispered, "Just follow my lead."
"Ji Hoo…" she murmured before her lips met his in a soft, electrifying kiss.
"I will teach you how it's done," he whispered against her lips, his hands gently cupping her face. With each gentle movement, he parted his lips slightly, guiding her to mimic his actions, feeling his tongue lightly brush against hers while urging her to do the same, but Jan Di had been caught off guard because all the kisses they had shared in the three days weren't like this. They had been scratching the tip of the iceberg, catching mere glimpses of the passion that now consumed them.
"Isn't it too soon for that?" Jan Di said as she pulled away slightly, her eyes searching for reassurance.
"Why? Are you having doubts?" Ji Hoo asked, his voice filled with concern. He gently cupped her face, his thumb caressing her cheek as he looked into her eyes.
"What if Seo Hyun was to come back? What would you do?" She asked him. Jan Di's question hung in the air, momentarily breaking the intensity of their connection.
Ji Hoo paused, his eyes reflecting a mix of emotions, before he spoke softly, "Seo Hyun is a part of my past, and you are my present. If she were to return, I would have to face that challenge, but my heart belongs to you now." His words carried a sense of conviction that reassured Jan Di, melting away her doubts and allowing their passion to reignite even stronger.
"It's getting late. I should go to my room."
"Stay for the night. I know it's only been three days since we began going out, but… I want to spend as much time with you as possible. Plus, I want you to know about the real me. I want you to see all the layers of my personality and understand why I've chosen you. I want you to see the vulnerable side of me, the side that only you can bring out."
Jan Di hesitated, her heart pounding with conflicting emotions. She knew she shouldn't rush into things, but his words tugged at her heartstrings. Could she resist the opportunity to deepen their connection and discover more about him? As the night grew darker, she made up her mind and smiled softly, saying, "All right, I'll stay."
"Shall we continue then?" he asked, his eyes filled with anticipation.
"With what?"
"With the French kiss. I promise I will teach you."
Jan Di's cheeks flushed as she processed his request. The idea of a French kiss both excited and intimidated her. She took a deep breath, reminding herself to trust him and embrace the unknown. With a shy nod, she replied, "Okay, let's give it a try."
The moment began with the simple kisses they had been sharing and gradually escalated as he slightly parted his lips while she did the same, their tongues tentatively meeting in a gentle, passionate dance. Jan Di could feel the warmth of his breath and the softness of his lips against hers, sending a thrilling sensation throughout her body. As their kiss deepened, she let go of her initial fears and allowed herself to fully surrender to the intoxicating moment.
Suddenly, Ji Hoo scooped her off the couch while their lips were still locked in a passionate embrace. He carried her effortlessly to the bed and laid her down gently, never leaving her lips as he soon joined her on the bed.
…
Ji Hoo's hands drifted to her waist and back, tracing her spine through her clothes, causing her back to arch, drawing her closer to him. The passion intensified as his hands wandered up and down her back, bunching her dress in the process. His touch felt so amazing that she couldn't help but let out a soft moan when he brushed tenderly on the skin of her thigh, causing her to jump and pull away.
Ji Hoo's eyes widened in surprise as he realized he had crossed a boundary. He quickly apologized, his voice filled with concern and regret, assuring her that he didn't mean to make her uncomfortable.
"It's OK; I was caught off guard," she reassured him, her voice trembling slightly. "I just need a moment to collect myself."
"Are you feeling hot? I can open the windows after all; there is always fresh air on the beach," Ji Hoo offered, trying to lighten the mood. "Or maybe we can take a break and get some ice cream to cool down?"
"No, I'm good," she replied, slowly laying back on the bed, regretting why she had to kill such a wonderful mood in the first place. She took a deep breath, hoping to shake off the uneasiness and salvage the remaining time together.
"So…what kind of flowers do you like?" Ji Hoo asked, hoping to shift the conversation towards a more positive topic. "I've always found flowers to be a great way to brighten up someone's day."
"I love peonies. They are so delicate and beautiful," she replied, a small smile forming on her face. "Their soft petals and vibrant colors always bring a sense of joy and tranquility." She paused for a moment, lost in the thought of a bouquet of peonies brightening up her room. "What about you? Do you have a favorite flower?"
"I love sunflowers," Ji Hoo answered, his eyes lighting up. "Their tall stems and big, bright petals never fail to make me feel happy and energized. They just have this way of radiating positivity." He couldn't help but imagine a field of sunflowers, their golden heads turning towards the sun. "Whenever I see them, it's like they're reminding me to always look on the bright side of things."
The following day, Jan Di was out swimming, enjoying the feel of water against her body, and Ga Eul rest of the group sat on the chairs by the beach. Ji Hoo and Jun Pyo were napping
Ga Eul sat on one of the beach chairs and began to apply sunscreen to her exposed body; she struggled hard to reach her back.
"Do you need my help with that?" Yi Jeong came out of nowhere and sat down beside her, grinning.
"No, thank you," she replied. Yi Jeong gave her an amused smile. He wasn't used to people turning down such offers, especially from someone like him, who was known for his charm and popularity.
He shrugged his shoulders and walked away. Ga Eul watched Yi Jeong walk away, feeling a mix of curiosity and intrigue. She couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to have someone like him by her side, always ready to lend a helping hand. She glanced back to see Woo Bin, who was applying sunscreen lotion to the girl who was with him.
Woo Bin grinned over at Ga Eul. "Ahh, my baby has the softest skin, just like a baby's…," he commented, as he smoothed lotion in circular motions across the young woman's back.
Ga Eul's nose wrinkled in disgust, and she made a gagging motion. "Gross… What the heck?"
She stood and walked toward the water, scanning for Jan Di. She hadn't seen her for a few minutes. "Jan Di-ah...," Ga Eul called out as she approached the water's edge. "Jan Di-ah, where are you? This isn't funny… Come out now…," she continued, calling for her best friend.
Ga Eul's eyes wandered the turquoise water until she noticed frantic splashing a few meters out. "Jan Di-ah!" Ga Eul shouted out to Jan Di, who was hunched over and bobbing up and down just above and below the surface of the water.
Ga Eul frantically called Jan Di's name and pleaded for someone's help. Jun Pyo rushed to Ga Eul's side first. "What's wrong?!"
"Something is wrong with Jan Di!" Ga Eul exclaimed, panic lacing her words.
Jun Pyo decisively took two steps into the water and then stood there, frozen. Though he desperately wanted to move, Jun Pyo could not bring himself to do so.
…
Seconds later, Ji Hoo rushed out into the water and quickly swam out to Jan Di. Ga Eul watched—terrified and clasping her hands together—praying that her best friend would be all right.
Jun Pyo's brow furrowed. He once again attempted to lift a leg, but it wasn't budging, as if he were stuck in deep, thick mud. So, he stood there, rooted to the spot…
Ji Hoo reached Jan Di and protectively encircled her waist with his arms. He held her head above water as he backstroked with her to shore. Once on land, Ji Hoo picked the unconscious Jan Di up and carried her in his arms. Yi Jeong and Woo Bin rushed to Ji Hoo's aid, and together they laid Jan Di down upon a towel on her side.
"Jan Di-ah, Jan Di-ah, wake up, please!" Ga Eul begged and clapped Jan Di on the back a few times until a cough sound made them look at Jan Di's face again. She was spurting water and coughing desperately to get some air inside her lungs. Ji Hoo released the heavy breath he had been holding in. Relieved to see Jan Di finally breathing, Ji Hoo gently wiped the water from her face and reassured her, "You're safe now Jan Di. Just take deep breaths and try to relax." Ga Eul and the others watched anxiously as Jan Di slowly regained consciousness, grateful that their friend was going to be okay.
"Jan Di-ah!" Ga Eul was full-on crying while Jan Di tried to weakly sit. Ji Hoo looked to his left and saw Jun Pyo leaving. He understood what his friend might be feeling at that moment, so he decided to give him some space.
"Why did you go so far inside, Jan Di-ah?" Ga Eul kept asking.
"I-" Jan Di tried to clear her throat, but one look at her and they all could see it must have hurt to expel that much water from her lungs. "I was fine, but my leg cramped, and I couldn't do a thing." Her voice was raspy, and she ashamedly thanked everyone for being worried for her.
Meanwhile, Jun Pyo wandered down the beach alone. The incident had brought a horrific childhood memory flooding back to him, yet the part that was far worse for Jun Pyo was that he had failed to act… Jan Di could have drowned, and he had to watch another man save her… As Jun Pyo walked along the beach, his mind was filled with regret and guilt. He couldn't shake off the feeling that he had let Jan Di down when she needed him the most. The sight of her struggling in the water haunted him, making him realize the depth of his love for her and the importance of being there for her in times of danger.
When Jun Pyo saw Jan Di there in the water—helplessly flailing about—he felt frustrated, weak, and inadequate…all things that Gu Jun Pyo could never allow himself to be...
And then he was forced to watch Ji Hoo carry her limp body—that had gone completely white—from the water… Ji Hoo had laid her down upon the sand and pressed his hands against her chest… And then he'd placed his lips upon her bluish ones... It was almost too much for Jun Pyo to take…
But in the moment, that had been the least of Jun Pyo's concerns. He'd felt as if he was slowly, torturously unraveling inside. And he watched the scene from a distance. Jun Pyo felt his heart stop briefly when Jan Di failed to respond, and Ji Hoo's panic mirrored Jun Pyo's own. Jun Pyo's heart started up again only when he saw Jan Di spit up water.
And Jun Pyo had felt immediate and intense relief...
Ga Eul had been confused about what had happened. Jun Pyo had been the first to respond when Jan Di was in trouble, but he'd frozen in place… And then afterward, he'd walked off from everyone without a word...
Jan Di was aware that Jun Pyo did not know how to swim. And she reminded Ga Eul of the incident at the school party for Seo Hyun. Jan Di recalled that night... She'd rescued Jun Pyo from the swimming pool after he'd fallen in. She'd performed CPR on him, only for him to open his eyes and pull her down to kiss her. Jan Di shook her head at the thought. She had been outraged then, but now it was more of an amusing anecdote, a cute, funny memory to look back on…
But Jan Di did not know why Jun Pyo had never learned to swim. So, Yi Jeong and Woo Bin told the girls of a tragic experience Jun Pyo had when he was 8. They told them about how he had been kidnapped by a man who had been the Gu family's driver at the time…
"Unbelievable!" Jan Di and Ga Eul exclaimed upon learning this information.
F2 further explained that the police had pursued the kidnapper, and—during the pursuit—the car had gone over a bridge into the river with Jun Pyo inside. Ever since Jun Pyo had been terrified of water and refused to set even a foot in it… The girls gasped in shock, unable to comprehend the trauma Jun Pyo had endured at such a young age. They sympathized with his fear of water, realizing the lasting impact it had on his life. It was clear that this tragic incident had shaped Jun Pyo's deep-rooted aversion to water.
Sometime later, after dinner, Ji Hoo and Jan Di were once again in private, sharing a passionate kiss without noticing Gu Jun Pyo approaching them with clenched fists and a fiery expression on his face. His eyes filled with anger and betrayal as he witnessed the intimate moment between Ji Hoo and Jan Di. The sight only fueled his already boiling anger, causing it to erupt like a volcano. His heart shattered into a million pieces, feeling as if the world had conspired against him once again. The pain of seeing the person he loved with someone else was unbearable.
"So, is this your answer?"
There comes an end to the third chapter.
I will take you a flashback on how Jun Pyo took Jan Di on the helicopter ride asking her to be his girlfriend and all in the coming chapter.
The next chapter will be about overcoming fears or trials or another New Caledonia (III)one of the titles because it will be all about Jan Di being Ji Hoo's source of strength and also determining their relationship.