Hello, I'm here again with another chapter. I hoped to release this chapter the next month and now that I had free time, I decided to release it, that way I could focus on my projects.

The apartment exuded Geum Jan Di's signature style, which was simple yet elegant. It was designed as a studio apartment that boasted an open-concept living area, complete with a modern kitchenette that was generously sized, perfect for preparing meals and entertaining guests. The cozy dining space was adjacent to a comfortable living room area that featured a coffee table, a small library corner, and a plush sofa that was ideal for relaxing. The neutral color palette and minimalistic furniture added to the calming atmosphere, while the large windows provided ample natural light that filled the space.

The walls were adorned with tasteful artwork, and each piece was carefully chosen to complement the minimalistic design. The furniture was thoughtfully selected to maximize space without compromising on comfort. A stunning chandelier hung from the ceiling, adding a touch of luxury to the living room. The wooden stairs that curved around a glass railing added an elegant and modern touch to the space. They led up to a loft area that featured the master bedroom and a small study area.

The master bedroom was spacious and featured floor-to-ceiling windows that offered breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. An exquisite chandelier hung in the middle of the room, while a golden net canopy draped over the king-sized bed with plush bedding, adding a regal and opulent feel to the space. The mahogany closet that was built into the wall next to the entrance of the bedroom was a perfect match for the two bedside mahogany tables. There was also a cozy sitting area by the window with a glass divider that separated it from the bathroom. The bathroom itself had a sleek and polished design with marble countertops, a large mirror framed with intricate gold detailing, a luxurious soaking tub, and a walk-in shower that featured showerheads and elegant fixtures. The floor was covered in polished porcelain tiles, adding to the overall luxurious feel of the space.

…

Jan Di gazed around the apartment, admiring the tasteful decor and cozy ambiance. "This whole apartment is perfect," she complimented, feeling a sense of comfort wash over her.

Ji Hoo's smile widened at her words. "I am glad you like it," he replied, taking a seat on the bed. "I spent a lot of time and effort in finding the right furniture and decorations that would suit your taste. I intended to create a space where you can feel comfortable and at home."

Jan Di's curiosity got the best of her, and she inquired, "Is there another bedroom?" A sudden unease crept over her, and she shifted her weight from one foot to the other.

Ji Hoo shook his head and said, "No, this apartment only has one bedroom. But don't worry; it's spacious enough, and we've shared a bed before. You should be used to it by now." He patted the space next to him, reassuring her with his gesture.

"Oh," Jan Di replied, feeling a mix of relief and nervousness. "I guess we'll have to make do then. As long as we're together, I'm sure it'll be fine." She smiled at Ji Hoo, trying to hide her lingering doubts about their living arrangement.

"Relax," Ji Hoo said as he guided Jan Di to sit next to him. "In this big bedroom, you and I have enough time to get to know each other better. I want to know you inside out, Jan Di-ah." He leaned in closer, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity, cupping her face in his hands, his eyes locked onto hers. "Get to know me as well, Jan Di, and stop avoiding me and my advances on you."

Jan Di's heart raced as she felt the intensity of Ji Hoo's gaze, his beautiful dark brown eyes that seemed to read her soul and understand her on a level no one else could, which was her greatest strength and weakness. She could never hide anything from him; he always saw right through her and managed to sense when she was in pain or when she was struggling with her emotions. It was both comforting and terrifying to have someone who could see through her walls so effortlessly, and this was considered a strength and weakness because it made her feel vulnerable yet safe at the same time.

Ji Hoo's ability to understand her on such a deep level created a unique bond between them, but it also meant that she could never truly hide her true self from him, leaving her exposed and open to judgment. This delicate balance of strength and weakness constantly kept her on edge, unlike when she was with Gu Jun Pyo, where she could put up a facade, feeling forced to constantly maintain a certain image. With Ji Hoo, however, she had no choice but to confront her vulnerabilities head-on, which ultimately allowed her to grow and develop a stronger sense of self.

Ji Hoo had a sense of understanding her and what she liked, but Gu Jun Pyo gave her what he liked and expected her to conform to his preferences. This created a power dynamic in their relationship, where Jan Di felt the need to suppress her true self to please Gu Jun Pyo. With Ji Hoo, on the other hand, she felt accepted and encouraged to embrace her desires and aspirations.

…

As Jan Di's gaze rested on Ji Hoo, he couldn't help but marvel at the sight of the girl he had been in love with for over two years. Even now, his feelings for her burned just as fiercely as they had in the beginning. Geum Jan Di was no ordinary girl; even Seo Hyun had been momentarily envious of her. She was his Ms. Universe, the embodiment of beauty and grace in his world. Her allure was not just skin deep; Jan Di's aspirations and determination to achieve her dreams only added to her radiance.

To Ji Hoo, Geum Jan Di was an open book, yet one that he could never tire of reading. Her personality had many layers, each more fascinating than the last. Her kindness, intelligence, and resilience were just a few of the qualities that made her shine. But what truly set her apart was her ability to light up a room with her infectious laughter and genuine smile. In Ji Hoo's eyes, there was no one more beautiful than Geum Jan Di, the queen of his heart.

He knew that even in his sleep if someone were to ask him who the most beautiful woman in the world was his answer would always be the same—Geum Jan Di. Her clumsiness only added to her charm, making her stand out even more in a sea of ordinary roses. Jan Di's presence in his life was like a ray of sunshine, bringing him a sense of peace and serenity that he had never experienced before. Her ability to lift his spirits and inspire him to be a better person was truly unparalleled.

In short, Geum Jan Di was the reason for his smiles—the one who had helped him overcome his nightmares and discover a deeper level of himself. She was a lotus flower, standing out amidst the mundane, and to Ji Hoo, she would forever be his Ms. Universe.

…

And her physical appearance—what captivated him the most from the time he laid his eyes on her—was her eyes—those doe-like eyes that sparkled with warmth and kindness. They were the windows to her soul, reflecting her genuine and compassionate nature. Ji Hoo couldn't help but get lost in those mesmerizing eyes, feeling a sense of comfort and serenity whenever he looked into them. That was the reason he paid attention to her, which made him want to know her and talk to her even for just a few seconds. And on those lips, he had been constantly stealing kisses from her, whether intentional or unintentional. They were soft and inviting, always leaving him craving for more.

"What will happen if Gu Jun Pyo finds out that we are staying together?" She asked him, holding onto the hands that rested on her face.

"If he finds out, it will be from his mother, because I know that by now, she already knows that we've moved into the same apartment," he replied with a hint of worry. "Whatever has been happening between us, I am sure Gu Jun Pyo is aware of it by now."

"Is that the reason why he isn't replying to my texts or picking up my calls?" she asked, her voice filled with concern. "I can't help but feel anxious about how he will react." She pulled her face away from his hands and looked down, her eyes filled with uncertainty.

"Is that what you think? For me, by now... his mother has already manipulated him and found him another bride," he replied, his tone tinged with frustration. "I wouldn't be surprised if he's been avoiding you to avoid any further conflict with his family." He sighed and gently cupped her face, trying to reassure her. "I know tomorrow you don't have any lectures, but we need to sleep."

"Can we make some adjustments to the room tomorrow?"

"Like what?"

"Well…um…" Jan Di shifted uneasily because of her nightmares.

"Nightmares?" Ji Hoo saw right through her, and his concern grew. "Is everything all right? You can talk to me about it, you know."

Jan Di hesitated for a moment before finally opening up about her recurring nightmares, hoping that Ji Hoo would understand and offer some comfort.

Ji Hoo knew she had been having nightmares but didn't know what they were about. "What is it about?" He took her by the shoulder and led her to the bed to sit down, offering her a comforting presence. He opened the covers and motioned for her to lie down beside him. "Tell me everything, Jan Di. I'm here for you."

"The nightmare is about when I was kidnapped and got hit in the shoulder with a chair," Jan Di began, her voice trembling slightly. "I can still feel the pain and fear from that moment, even in my dreams. It's like I'm reliving it over and over again." She looked into Ji Hoo's eyes, searching for understanding. "I just can't seem to escape it, no matter how hard I try."

Ji Hoo gently took her in his arms, stroking her hair as he listened intently. "Jan Di, I can't imagine how terrifying that must have been for you. It's completely understandable that it's still affecting you. But remember, you're safe now, and I am here to protect you." He kissed her head and stroked her back. "Back then, I couldn't protect you properly because Gu Jun Pyo had every right over you, but now that he isn't around…" He drew her out of his chest and looked into her eyes, his voice filled with determination. "I promise you, Jan Di-ah, my little otter, I will do everything in my power to keep you safe and make sure no one ever hurts you again. You don't have to face your fears alone anymore." and kissed her forehead several times, leaving a trail of gentle kisses along her forehead. "I will give it my all, and if it means I have to enter that dream to save you the pain that you feel,"

Jan Di felt a sense of relief wash over her as she realized that she finally had someone who would always be there for her, someone who would go to great lengths to shield her from harm. With tears of gratitude in her eyes, she whispered, "Thank you, Ji Hoo Sunbae. I trust you with all my heart."

New York…

Jae Kyung and Gu Jun Pyo stood in front of the cameras, their smiles masking the turmoil within, as the news reporter began. "In front of us is the heir of Shinhwa Cooperation, Gu Jun Pyo, and his fiancée, Ha Jae Kyung. The couple recently announced their engagement, causing quite a stir in the business world. Many are curious to see how this power couple will navigate their way through the challenges that lie ahead." As the cameras flashed, Jae Kyung couldn't help but wonder if she was making the right decision, while Gu Jun Pyo's mind was consumed with thoughts of Jan Di, the girl who had captured his heart.

"It is said that their companies, JK Group and Shinhwa Cooperation, have finally merged, forming JK/Shiwa Enterprises, a force to be reckoned with in the industry. With their combined resources and expertise, they are expected to dominate the market and set new standards for success. However, skeptics question whether their personal relationships will affect their professional decisions and hinder their ability to make unbiased choices for the benefit of their companies. Only time will tell if this power couple can strike a balance between love and business."

"Have you talked to Jan Di about this?" Jae Kyung asked as they sat down to have their lunch. Jae Kyung knew Gu Jun Pyo so well ever since he arrived here in New York. His calls to Geum Jan Di have been rare, and even mentioning her name made him visibly uncomfortable.

"I don't think she needs me; after all, there is Yoon Ji Hoo with him," he replied, taking a bite of his tower burger.

Jae Kyung nodded sympathetically, understanding the complexity of Gu Jun Pyo's situation. She knew that Yoon Ji Hoo had always been a significant presence in Geum Jan Di's life, and it seemed like their connection was still strong. However, she couldn't help but wonder if Gu Jun Pyo's absence in Jan Di's life was affecting him more than he let on.

As he sat in his chair, he drew out his phone, looking at the photo. "Their chemistry is stronger than before," he said as he couldn't help but recall the stack of photos his mother had delivered earlier that morning. The most beautiful one captured Jan Di and Ji Hoo sharing cotton candy on the bustling streets of Seoul. Their eyes were closed in pure bliss as they savored the sweet treat, their lips barely touching. The chemistry between them was stronger than ever, and he couldn't deny that their connection had deepened over time. As he carefully analyzed the photo, he began to realize that his absence may have caused him to overlook something significant: Jan Di's love for Ji Hoo. It was clear to him that she was smitten with him, even if she hadn't yet realized it herself.

"I want to start over again." Ha Jae Kyung said. "Over these two years, you've been treating me so well, Jun… I hope you realize that the bond we share is much stronger than the bond you share with Jan Di-ah," she continued, her voice filled with determination. "I know that you have a history with her, but our connection goes beyond that. I believe in us, and I'm willing to fight for my love for you, and this time…this time around, I won't let you go." Ha Jae Kyung's words echoed in Jun Pyo's mind, causing him to question his feelings and the depth of his love for Jan Di. He couldn't deny the strong bond he had formed with Ha Jae Kyung, but he also couldn't ignore the lingering feelings he had for Jan Di.

…

After the shoot, Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung walked into the boardroom; their faces were sober, cool, and unsmiling. They both walked into the sea of middle-aged board members. Most were men, a few were women, largely Americans, and a few were Koreans. Jun Pyo and Ha Jae Kyung were the younger ones there, standing out among the sea of older faces. Their presence commanded attention as they confidently took their seats at the table, ready to contribute their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the board meeting.

Despite their youth, Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung exuded a sense of maturity and professionalism that instantly earned them the respect of their seasoned colleagues. Gu Jun Pyo was trained from childhood to be a businessman, even though his dress code reflected his dedication to his role, with a tailored suit and polished shoes. On the other hand, Jae Kyung possessed a natural charisma that captivated those around her, making it clear that age was not a barrier to success in their eyes.

Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung bowed to the senior executives, demonstrating their humility, and understanding of traditional Korean business etiquette. Their gestures were met with nods of approval and admiration from the higher-ups. "We are hoping that, apart from being a powerful couple, you both can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to our company," one of the executives said. Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung exchanged a confident glance, ready to prove themselves as a dynamic duo capable of driving the company's growth and success.

"Shall we begin the presentation?" Jae Kyung said, serving out the files for oil exploration and production. As they delved into their meticulously prepared slides, Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung seamlessly showcased their extensive knowledge of the industry, backed by thorough research and analysis. Their presentation captivated the room, leaving the executives impressed with their professionalism and expertise. It was clear that this power couple was determined to make a lasting impact on the company's future endeavors in the oil sector.

"Oh!" Jae Kyung exclaimed, slamming into her chair in her office. "This was a hectic day," she commented to Gu Jun Pyo, who was in the same state as her and slumped in his chair with a tired expression. Both had spent the entire day attending back-to-back meetings and negotiating deals with potential clients. Despite their exhaustion, they couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment, knowing that their hard work was paying off and propelling the company toward success.

Suddenly, their office opened without a knock. Standing in the doorway was Jun Pyo's mother, with her proud smile. "I have booked two tickets for you to a movie this evening," she announced, holding up the tickets. "I thought you both could use a well-deserved break and some time to relax." Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung exchanged a surprised glance. Madam Kang they knew would never do something like that. She was known for her strict and business-oriented personality, rarely showing any interest in their personal lives or well-being. This unexpected gesture from her left them pleasantly surprised and grateful, realizing that perhaps she was beginning to see the value in work-life balance, supporting her son's happiness, or perhaps plotting.

As they pondered over Madam Kang's unexpected gesture, Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung couldn't help but wonder if there was a hidden motive behind her sudden change in behavior. They couldn't shake off the thought that maybe Madam Kang had some ulterior motives or plans up her sleeve, making them question her true intentions.

'I wonder what she's up to.' Jun Pyo whispered to Jae Kyung, his voice filled with suspicion. 'It's hard to believe that my mother would suddenly become so generous without a hidden agenda.' Jae Kyung nodded in agreement, her eyes narrowing as she contemplated the possibilities. 'We should keep a close eye on her, just to be safe,' she suggested, her tone cautious.

Seoul…

"It's cold; close the window." Jan Di mumbled incoherently, snuggling more into Ji Hoo's chest as they slept soundly. She wrapped her hands around him, seeking warmth in his embrace. The sound of the wind outside grew louder, making her shiver even more.

"I'll close it," Ji Hoo whispered, gently lifting the blanket over her as he wrapped his arms around her, drawing her closer to him for added warmth. He took the remote control from the bedside table and closed the window, shutting out the chilly Seoul air. "There, that should keep us warm," he murmured, his voice filled with reassurance.

Jan Di smiled sleepily, lifting the blanket over him as well to share the warmth. As they settled back into each other's arms, Jan Di could feel her body relaxing, the coldness slowly fading away, and she closed her eyes. She wrapped her legs around his, intertwining them in a comforting embrace.

Ji Hoo was taken aback by the unexpected but heartfelt gesture from Jan Di. He welcomed it with open arms and tightened his hold on her, feeling a sense of profound contentment wash over him. As he embraced her, he couldn't help but relish the happiness of waking up in the middle of the night and feeling the warmth and weight of her body beside him. He watched as she slept peacefully and innocently, vulnerable, and unguarded. Her breaths came slowly and evenly, as though the weight of the world lay on anyone's shoulder but her own. Ji Hoo was overcome with a sense of tenderness and affection as he leaned in to plant the gentlest of kisses on her face, careful not to disturb her serene slumber.

At that moment, he knew that nothing could compare to the joy he felt in her company. "Jan Di-ah," he whispered softly, his words barely audible in the hushed room. "You make me happy." Jan Di stirred slightly, a small smile playing on her lips as if she could hear his confession in her dreams. Ji Hoo felt his heart swell with love for her, and he knew that he would cherish this moment forever.

The following morning, Ji Hoo woke up to the aroma of fried beef samosas filling the air. This was Jan Di's favorite snack for breakfast, and the aroma let him know that she was cooking. Ji Hoo smiled as he got out of bed, excited to start the day with Jan Di's delicious cooking and staying by her side all day. He walked to the kitchen to find Jan Di standing by the stove, wearing a Medium-wash collar, plain straight-leg stretch hem rolled denim shorts, a white tank top, and her apron. The attire she wore was perfect for the day indoors. Her long black hair was tied up in a ponytail while she hummed a happy tune, flipping the beef-butter samosa in hot oil. Ji Hoo's mouth watered as he watched Jan Di expertly handle the samosas, knowing that they would be crispy and flavorful.

He strolled gently to the kitchen and approached Jan Di with a smile, wrapping his arms around her from behind. "You always make the best samosas," he said in her ear, making her giggle. He nuzzled his nose against her cheek, inhaling the enticing perfume of sizzling samosas. "You know…" he murmured quietly as he kissed her left eye. "…I still remember…" he added as he kissed her on the cheek. "…the first time you made me samosas. It was love at first bite," he reminisced, his voice full of emotion. Jan Di blushed and turned to face him, their eyes locked in a shared moment of affection. "It reminded me of our first kiss…" he added, carefully leaning in, and closing their eyes and lips before meeting in a soft kiss.

…

That simple yet passionate kiss they first shared back in New Caledonia. Their lips perched against each other's, sending sparks of electricity through their bodies. The softness of their lips melded together, creating a sensation that neither of them could ever forget.

"Do you ever regret that moment we shared that night?" he asked, holding her face gently in his hands, his thumb tracing the jawlines he knew so well.

She looked into his eyes, feeling a mixture of nostalgia and longing. "Regret? Never," she whispered, her voice filled with certainty. "That kiss was the beginning of everything for us, a beautiful memory that will always hold a special place in my heart."

"Me too, Jan Di-ah," he replied, his voice filled with sincerity. "That night changed everything for me. It was the moment I knew I had found the love of my life." He leaned in and kissed her forehead, sealing their shared sentiment.

"I'm hungry; shall we eat?" he asked, holding his stomach as it growled in response.

Jan Di smiled, her heart still fluttering from their conversation. "Yes, let's grab something to eat," she replied.

"Is the kitchen comfortable for you? I thought I could arrange it exactly like the kitchen at home."

"Yes, I thought I would get lost in a new kitchen, but it feels surprisingly familiar," Jan Di responded, grateful for his thoughtfulness. "Thank you for making me feel at home."

"That's good, then," he said with a relieved smile. "I wanted you to feel comfortable here, especially since it's your first time having the entire house to ourselves."

"Hmm…"

"We have our leisure day today… Shall we go and do some music or art?"

"Is there a new melody you came up with?" she asked, poring him his favorite cappuccino, putting three pieces of samosas on his plate and placing them in front of him. "I'd love to hear what you've been working on."

Ji Hoo, with a glint of excitement in his eyes, extended an invitation to his beloved Jan Di. "If you are eager to listen to it…come to the office with me after breakfast," he said. As a talented musician, Ji Hoo had been working tirelessly on a new melody that he believed was special. It was a unique composition that blended soothing tones with catchy beats that would undoubtedly resonate with listeners. However, what was most important to him was Jan Di's opinion.

She was the love of his life, the one person whose feedback mattered most. Ji Hoo had spent over two months perfecting this melody, pouring every bit of his heart and soul into it. Countless hours were spent in the studio, experimenting with different instruments and arrangements, and meticulously fine-tuning every note. With Valentine's Day approaching, Ji Hoo planned to surprise Jan Di with this piece of passionate music, hoping to express every feeling in his heart.

Despite his confidence in his own abilities, Ji Hoo wanted to hear what Jan Di had to say about his latest creation. She had always been his biggest supporter and critic, and her honest feedback meant everything to him.

…

"I would love to accompany you," Jan Di responded warmly, sliding into a chair next to Ji Hoo. She poured herself a glass of orange juice and reached for a samosa, savoring the flaky pastry and spicy filling. As they sat together, she gazed out the window at the beautiful city skyline illuminated by the morning sun. The view was breathtaking, and she felt thankful to be sharing this moment with Ji Hoo. The delectable breakfast and stunning scenery were the perfect way to start their day together.

Ji Hoo took a bite of his samosa, and the familiar taste instantly transported him back to the moment Jan Di had made it for him and their shared their first kiss back in New Caledonia. Even though he hadn't realized his love for her at that time, that night had marked a turning point in their relationship. He had grown closer to her and come to appreciate the role she played in his life. He couldn't imagine his life without her by his side.

He thought back to the time when the monk at the temple had told him to treat Jan Di well because she would give him a family in the future. At the time, he had dismissed it as impossible, but as they spent more time together and grew closer, he began to believe that the monk might have been right. Jan Di was slowly falling in love with him, but her commitment to Gu Jun Pyo was holding her back.

Jan Di noticed the faraway look on Ji Hoo's face and asked him, "What are you thinking about?" She grew concerned when he didn't immediately respond. "Don't you like the samosa?"

Ji Hoo opened his eyes and gazed at her with affection. "No, that's not it," he replied softly, taking her hand, and gently kissing it. "I was just thinking about how life can be unpredictable and how sometimes the most unexpected connections can lead to something beautiful," he added tenderly, taking her hand, and planting another gentle kiss on it.

Jan Di's heart skipped a beat as she looked into his eyes. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ji Hoo's smile grew wider as he spoke. "I mean, meeting you and sharing moments like this reminds me that love can bloom at the most unexpected time," he replied, his gaze never leaving hers.

Jan Di felt a rush of emotions, her heart fluttering with butterflies.

She knew that what Ji Hoo was saying was true. Their connection was special, and it went beyond what love could be. It was unconditional love—love without expecting anything in return—loving selflessly.

After enjoying breakfast, Ji Hoo and Jan Di cleaned the dishes together as usual. As they washed the dishes, their hands occasionally brushed against each other, sending shivers down Jan Di's nerves. She could feel the electricity in the air—a tangible spark between them that made her heart race even faster as if it was about to burst out of her chest.

The way he touched her was gentle yet firm, his fingers leaving a trail of warmth wherever they grazed her skin, his breath tickling her neck as he leaned in closer while standing behind her, whispering softly in her ear. Jan Di couldn't help but lean into his touch, her body responding to his presence with a mixture of excitement and anticipation. Each passing moment felt like an eternity as if time had slowed down just for them, intensifying the connection they shared. The simple act of washing dishes together had transformed into a moment of intimacy, leaving Jan Di yearning for more than just the lingering touch of their hands.

"Jan Di-ah," he murmured, his voice filled with longing. "I wish we could stay like this forever, away from the chaos of the world, where it's just you and me, enjoying every moment together."

She looked into his eyes, her heart swelling with the same desire. "Me too," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

"I don't like it whenever I kiss you unexpectedly; I want to do it when you are fully aware and ready," he confessed, his gaze intense. "I want our kisses to be deliberate, passionate, and filled with all the love I have for you." He leaned in closer, capturing her lips in a tender yet deliberate kiss.

Jan Di's cheeks flushed as she absorbed his words, feeling a surge of anticipation as her eyes closed in response to his kiss.

"I want…" he said, his lips barely parting as he continued, "to deepen our kisses, explore your mouth with mine, and lose ourselves in the intoxicating taste of each other." Jan Di's heart raced as she felt his warm breath against her skin, her body responding eagerly to his desires. "The hunger that matches the deep feelings that I have for you," he added, his voice filled with longing. "I want our kisses to be a reflection of the intense connection we share, a passionate expression of our love for one another."

Jan Di's mind swirled with desire, her heart pounding in sync with his words. "We should…finish up here and…"

Her words were muffled as he tenderly brushed his tongue on hers for the first time, sending a jolt of electricity through her body. She felt his tongue extend into her mouth with gentle yet confident exploration, inviting her to do the same, but Jan Di, being shy and unprepared, pulled back slightly, her cheeks flushed with a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

She needed a moment to gather her thoughts and find the courage to fully embrace this new level of intimacy. She had never shared this kiss with Gu Jun Pyo, yet with Ji Hoo, he had unlocked the forbidden grounds of her heart that not even Jun Pyo had reached. Jan Di couldn't deny the electric connection she felt with Ji Hoo, but she also couldn't ignore the complicated emotions that came with it. It was a crossroads moment for her, where she had to decide whether to follow her heart or stay loyal to her long-time love, Gu Jun Pyo.

"I won't rush you," Ji Hoo said, kissing her forehead gently. "Take all the time you need to figure out what you truly want. I'll be here, waiting for you, no matter what."

"OK," she replied with a small smile. "Thank you for understanding, Ji Hoo. I appreciate your patience and support. I promise to be honest with myself and make the best decision for you, myself, and Gu Jun Pyo.

"Shall we go to the office then?"

Ji Hoo sat comfortably on the stool behind his grand piano, his fingers deftly moving across the keys as he began to play a soft, melodic tune. Jan Di sat beside him, her gaze fixed on the elegant movements of his hands. As the music filled the room, Ji Hoo turned to her with a warm smile and asked, "Are you ready?"

Although he couldn't quite put his finger on it, Ji Hoo had a feeling that this might be the last time he would be able to express his deepest feelings to Jan Di. He couldn't shake the restless feeling that had been building inside him, and he knew that he needed to do more than simply tell her how he felt. Was it because Valentine's Day was approaching? Or was it something more ominous that was weighing on his mind? Whatever the reason, Ji Hoo felt an urgent need to make Jan Di feel special and cherished at this moment.

Jan Di nodded eagerly, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. She could feel the tension building between them, and she knew that this moment would be nothing short of magical. As Ji Hoo continued to play, she could feel her heart pounding in her chest. She was completely enraptured by him.

"I don't know what the future holds, Jan Di-ah," Ji Hoo whispered, his voice filled with a mixture of vulnerability and determination. "But I want you to know that right now, in this moment, you are the most important person to me. I don't want to wait for something that may never come. I want to cherish every second we have together and make the most of our time." His words were filled with a deep sincerity that touched Jan Di's heart, and she knew that she would never forget this moment.

"Sunbae…" Jan Di said, wrapping her arms around his waist and laying her head on his shoulder. "I don't know what is happening, but…I feel like something is off like there's a sense of uncertainty in the air."

Ji Hoo was surprised that Jan Di was also feeling the same sense of uncertainty. He was aware that he and Jan Di, at one point, experienced the same kinds of emotions and had a strong connection that allowed them to understand each other without words. If one was hurting, the other could feel it too, whether happiness or sadness. Their instincts were always in sync, detecting the slightest shifts in each other's moods. Even when they were apart, they could easily sense when something was off and find each other if needed, whether it was danger or simply a longing for companionship.

Ji Hoo gently stroked Jan Di's hair, trying to calm her mood while also helping him calm his own anxieties. "Do you still like puppies?" he asked, drawing her to arm's length as he looked into her eyes.

Jan Di smiled softly, feeling a sense of comfort wash over her. "Of course, I still love puppies," she replied, her voice filled with warmth.

"Then…how about you look behind you and see what surprise I have for you?" Ji Hoo suggested a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Jan Di turned around, her curiosity piqued. As she looked behind her, she couldn't help but gasp in delight. There, standing before her, was a fluffy golden retriever puppy, wagging its tail eagerly. "Oh, my goodness! Is this for me?" she exclaimed, her heart melting at the sight of the adorable creature.

"Yes," Ji Hoo beamed. "I remembered how much you love dogs, so I thought this little guy would make the perfect companion for you."

Jan Di's eyes welled up with tears of joy as she reached down to scoop up the puppy in her arms. She couldn't believe her luck—not only did she have a thoughtful friend like Ji Hoo who knew what she liked, but now she had a furry best friend to share her days with. "What is his name?" Jan Di asked, her voice filled with excitement as she stroked the puppy's soft fur.

Ji Hoo chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with delight while softly stroking the puppy's soft fur as well. "I thought you should be the one to give him a name," he replied, knowing that Jan Di would cherish the opportunity to choose a special name for her new companion.

Jan Di gazed at the small puppy that had its small tongue hanging out of its mouth, wagging its tail excitedly. She couldn't help but smile at the adorable sight. "Hmm, how about... Coco?" she suggested, her eyes sparkling with joy. "No…how about… Mickey?" she added, her voice filled with excitement. The puppy tilted its head in response as if considering the name options, and then let out a small bark as if giving its approval. Jan Di laughed and gently placed it in Ji Hoo's arms.

Ji Hoo nodded in agreement, loving the name choice. "Mickey…" he repeated the name with a soft smile. "It suits him perfectly," he said, his voice filled with affection. The puppy snuggled into Ji Hoo's arms as if already feeling at home with his new name and family.

"Thank you, Sunbae," Jan Di said, kissing his cheek.

"For what?" Ji Hoo asked, his eyes filled with curiosity.

"For always finding a way to make me happy, for never leaving my side even when I wanted to leave, and for being the one constant in my life," Jan Di replied, her voice filled with gratitude. "You've done so much for me—"

Ji Hoo's heart swelled with love as he pulled her into a passionate, wet kiss, forcing the puppy to whine in protest and jump out of his arms. The kiss deepened, their bodies pressing against each other, and Jan Di's hands tangled in Ji Hoo's hair while his hands roamed over her back, pulling her closer. This time, without protesting, he ran his tongue along her bottom lip, eliciting a soft moan from Jan Di. Lost in the moment, they forgot about everything else around them, their surroundings fading into the background.

Finally breaking the kiss, Ji Hoo whispered against her lips, "I love you, Jan Di."

He didn't wait for her to reply as he carried her in bridal style to the private room of his office, closing the door behind them. The room was dimly lit, creating an intimate atmosphere even in the afternoon.

This is it…

Their bodies and souls lace together as they succumb to their deepest desires, the passion between them igniting like wildfire. Lost in each other's embrace, they forget about the world outside, savoring every moment of their forbidden love, which is meant to be, but only at the right time.

Will this bring happiness, pain, or a mixture of both? Only time will tell as they navigate the treacherous path of their clandestine affair. The stakes are high, and the consequences could be devastating, but for now, they choose to live in the moment, embracing the intoxicating thrill of their secret rendezvous.

It hadn't been a day since Ji Hoo asked Jan Di to think about what she truly wanted, but the uncertainty of what would happen tomorrow or in the near future weighed heavily on both of their minds, forcing them to hit the bottom line and find out if they were made for each other. They knew that this moment in the private room was their chance to lay all their cards on the table and finally confront their feelings head-on in this world of theirs where there was no Gu Jun Pyo or anyone else to interfere.

As they looked into each other's eyes, Jan Di asked, "What have we done?"

Ji Hoo smiled softly as he placed a pink bracelet with a small heart charm with their initials engraved on it onto Jan Di's wrist. "We've followed our hearts," he replied, his voice filled with certainty. "We've taken a leap of faith and chosen love over everything else. And now, we'll face whatever comes our way together."

"But what we did shouldn't have happened," Jan Di whispered, her voice filled with guilt, covering herself tightly with the sheet that they lay in.

"But you don't regret it, right?" Ji Hoo asked, his eyes searching Jan Di's for reassurance. "Because I don't. Our love is worth any consequences we may face."

"Our?" Jan Di questioned, her eyebrows furrowing in confusion.

"Yes, our love," Ji Hoo affirmed, his gaze unwavering, his face coming closer, and before the impact of their lips meeting, their puppy barked, interrupting the moment. Startled, Jan Di and Ji Hoo pulled away, their cheeks flushed with embarrassment, while covering themselves in the sheets and noticing that it was at their feet rather than on the bed. They shared a nervous laugh, realizing that their intimate moment had been abruptly disrupted by their playful furry companion.

"I love you, Jan Di-ah."

I love you, Ji Hoo sunbae.

In the upcoming chapter, the focus will be on Valentine's Day. Ji Hoo and Grandfather leave the town to spend a night out together at a family friend's house before Ji Hoo can take Jan Di out for dinner. This dinner is a crucial moment for both of them, as it may determine if their love will prevail or if their doubts will ruin everything.