Hi there! It's been a while since I last reached out. I've been on quite the journey since then, filled with ups and downs, twists, and turns. I've had the opportunity to explore new ventures, meet fascinating people, and discover parts of myself that I never knew existed. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, this time away has allowed me to grow and evolve in ways I never thought possible. And now, I'm excited to share the updated version of my story with you—our happy ending.


Ji Hoo's eyes scanned the old apartment Jan Di was renting, taking in every detail of its run-down condition. The peeling wallpaper hung limply off the walls, revealing the chipped and cracked concrete beneath. The furniture was worn out and threadbare, with frayed edges and faded colors. The lighting was dim and gloomy, casting an eerie shadow over the entire room. The windows were caked with grime, obstructing any natural light that could have brightened up the space. The door was chipped and peeling, revealing layers of paint underneath. Even the electric appliances were outdated and barely functional. Every inch of the walls was scuffed and in desperate need of a fresh coat of paint. The carpet was worn and stained, giving the room a neglected and unkempt appearance.

Concern evident in his voice, Ji Hoo turned to Jan Di and asked, "Do you really want to rent this place, Jan Di-ah?" He looked up at the roof and noticed a few leaks, causing water stains on the ceiling. The musty smell in the air further added to the overall dreariness of the apartment. Ji Hoo could not help but worry about Jan Di's well-being in such a rundown living space. He placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, hoping to make her understand that he would not agree with her decision this time either.

"Well, Sunbae…if you are worried, help me so that I can make this place comfortable for myself." Jan Di replied with a determined look on her face.

"What about the apartment Haraboeji gave you?"

"My parents don't have a place to stay, so I asked them to move in there instead," she replied, looking at him. "Don't worry, I want to be somewhat independent from them so they can learn to work without depending on me."

"OK, let me hire workers to help—"

"No." Jan Di cut him off. "We shall do the work ourselves."

"Why can't you move in with me and Grandfather?" he insisted, hoping to convince her to change her mind.

Jan Di gave him a puppy pout with her doe eyes flutteringly. "You are my best friend..." she pulled on his sleeves, swinging his arm back and forth. "...please Sunbae! We can hire the workers for the roof and electric appliances, and we can do the cleaning here ourselves!"

"OK, but we can't finish this work in one day." Ji Hoo said, taking off his jacket. He went to the so-called bathroom to see its condition as well. The bathroom was worn out as well, with cracked tiles and a leaky faucet.

Jan Di looked at Ji Hoo with determination in her eyes. "We can fix it, too! We just need some new tiles and a plumber to help us with the faucet." Ji Hoo sighed, realizing that convincing Jan Di to change her mind would be more challenging than he thought.

"Why did you choose to rent this place?" Ji Hoo asked.

Jan Di smiled and went over to the window, opening it to let in some fresh air. "Come and see the breathtaking view," she said, gesturing for Ji Hoo to join her.

Ji Hoo approached her, and instead of standing beside her, he stood behind her, wrapping his arm around her waist unconsciously while he looked over to the lotus pond and lost himself in the serenity of the blooming flowers.

Jan Di looked at his arm that settled on her waist and felt a warmth spread through her, making her heart skip a beat. Ji Hoo had never gotten into her personal space before because of her relationship with Gu Jun Pyo, but now everything has changed since Jun Pyo was in America, and she and Ji Hoo are going to be studying together for the next four to five years. and she could not help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness about what the future held for them.

Not only that but there was also a garden of lush greenery surrounding the pond, creating a picturesque scene that seemed straight out of a fairy tale. Fruits and vegetables of all colors and shapes grew abundantly, tempting any passerby to pluck and savor their fresh flavors.

Her heart began to pound rapidly as she made eye contact with Ji Hoo, who was looking at his hand with a smile. His eyes were full of warmth as he pressed himself further against her. She could feel the surge of electricity running through her body, making every nerve tingle with anticipation.

"The scenery here is beautiful." His voice came out deeper and huskier than he intended it to be. His heart was fluttering with a lot of butterflies because this time Jan Di did not avoid his proximity or his touch, unlike other days when he intended to get closer to her, but she avoided it. The feeling of being close to a woman he had admired from afar for so long was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, and now here they were, standing so close while looking out at the beautiful scenery, but their eyes looked into each other's soul.

"Yes, it is," she muttered breathlessly while looking back at the garden.

"I'm seeing tea species there as well," he said, pointing out the different types of flowers in the distance, including mint, chamomile, and lavender. "Even rosemary is there."

"The former owner of this room planted them, so I am going to make good use of them." Jan Di said. "Help me clean up the room," she added and turned to face him, and as if it were ill fate or so, their lower bodies electrically brushed against each other. Time stood still as they both felt a rush of desire engulf them, their hearts pounding in their chests. Ji Hoo noticed the intensity in her eyes, a reflection of his own longing, as he involuntarily pressed her against the wall, his body pressed tightly against hers, making sure there was no distance between them and also letting her know what being close to her meant for both his heart and his body...

He whispered softly in her ear, "I never want to let you go."

"What do you mean?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity while, fortunately, or unfortunately, welcoming Ji Hoo's body reaction toward her as well. This feeling was new to her, yet undeniably thrilling. She wondered if Jun Pyo managed to pull this off, would she be able to allow it? No, she would never allow this, but why was she allowing Ji Hoo to affect her in such a way? Allowing him to press himself into her like a magnet, pulling them together.

Did he even put on his underwear? She wondered, feeling a mix of desire and confusion. And no matter how she struggled to pull away, her body kept gravitating towards his, enjoying the feel of his body tickling her.

Is this what is called flirting? Or is this his body seducing her without any intention on his part? Why is he so big even through his clothes?

Jan Di quickly stepped back; her cheeks flushed with embarrassment at her silly thoughts. "Sorry," she stammered, avoiding his gaze. "Let's just focus on cleaning for now." She busied herself with organizing the tea plants in the room, trying to distract herself from the lingering tension in the air.

Ji Hoo stood beside Jan Di, feeling his heart beating rapidly in his chest. His body was aching with desire, and he couldn't help but wonder why he was feeling this way. He looked down at himself, realizing that he had an intense craving for her. He closed his eyes, trying to calm his racing thoughts and control the fire burning inside him.

Desperate to relieve the overwhelming desire within him, Ji Hoo's hand slipped down to touch himself. But it only made the burning ache intensify, spreading through his entire being. He knew he had to regain control or risk doing something he would regret for the rest of his life. He wondered why he had to stand so close to her, and why she had allowed it. Jan Di had done something to him, something that he couldn't ignore.

"Ji Hoo Sunbae, are you coming to help me?" Jan Di's voice interrupted his thoughts, and he realized that he had been standing there for some time.

"Give me a few minutes to change, and I will be back to assist you," he replied, trying to conceal the desperation in his voice. He hurried towards the old apartment building, grateful that his jacket covered the evidence of his desire.

In his car, he struggled to calm his racing heart and body, realizing that he needed to go somewhere to clear his head. He remembered the garden behind the old apartment building, filled with blooming flowers and a small lotus pond. Ji Hoo got out of his car and walked towards the garden, hoping that the tranquility of nature would calm his racing thoughts.

Ji Hoo walked around the garden, admiring the vibrant colors of the flowers and the serene beauty of the lotus pond. He took deep breaths, inhaling the fresh scent of the flowers and feeling the cool breeze on his skin. He closed his eyes, allowing himself to be fully immersed in the peacefulness of the garden.

After ten minutes, he turned around to leave but was surprised to find Jan Di standing there, her expression angry and impatient. "You said you were coming to help; why are you here in the garden?" she pouted.

Ji Hoo stammered, realizing he had forgotten his promise. "Jan Di-ah," he said, placing his hand on her shoulder. "I'm sorry... I needed some time to compose myself, but now that I am calmer, I'm going to the art shop to buy some wallpaper for the wall. Is that okay?"

Jan Di sighed and nodded, grateful that he had remembered their conversation about the renovation. "Okay, Gomawo Sunbae."

"You're welcome," Ji Hoo replied, smiling.

Thirty minutes later, Ji Hoo returned with workers in tow, ready to begin the renovation process. Jan Di watched as the workers measured and prepared the walls for the wallpaper while others took out the old furniture, appliances, floor tiles, and fixtures. She was amazed at how efficiently the workers were doing their jobs, and she felt grateful that Ji Hoo had thought of hiring them.

"When will they finish?" she asked, curious about the timeline.

Ji Hoo smiled, happy that she wasn't angry about hiring workers to renovate the place. "They should be done by tomorrow," he replied reassuringly. "Jan Di-ah, have you forgotten we have to celebrate Grandfather's birthday tonight?" he reminded her.

"I haven't forgotten; in fact, I have already prepared a gift for him," she said with a smile.

"Let me see?" he asked eagerly, extending his hand towards her.

Jan Di dug into his bag and took out the canvas painting she had spent weeks working on. She opened it carefully, revealing a stunning landscape of vibrant colors and intricate details of Ji Hoo and his grandfather fishing by the sea. The painting captured their bond and the peacefulness of the moment.

"Wow! This is beautiful, and the attention to detail is incredible," Ji Hoo said, smiling as he admired the painting. "But something is missing."

"What is it?" she asked, curious to know what he was thinking.

"I see a pot here, but you are not there. I think the painting would be even more special if you were included in it, capturing the memory of our time together." Ji Hoo suggested, his eyes twinkling with affection. "Your presence would truly complete this beautiful scene."

"But I don't know how to draw myself," she replied sheepishly.

"Give me your art pencil and colors," he replied, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "I will draw you in the most perfect way," he said, placing a pot beside her as she pretended to cook ingredients.

Ji Hoo's skilled hands glided across the paper, capturing her features with precision and care. He took his time, ensuring that every detail was perfect. As he added the final touches, he whispered, "Grandfather will be happy to see this."

"Oh, come on, you're better than me at this," she protested, a hint of admiration in her voice. "I can't believe how talented you are. I wish I had your skills in art and music."

Ji Hoo chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling with pride. "It's all about practice and patience," he replied humbly. "Anyone can become skilled with enough dedication."

"Thank you, Sunbae,"

"Come, let's wrap it up, and we go out shopping because the party will host a lot of officials since he was the president before."

"Shopping?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. "Haraboeji won't mind if I go with my ordinary clothes."

Ji Hoo knew his grandfather well enough that no matter what kind of ordinary clothes Jan Di wore, he would not mind, but this was a formal party, and she needed to dress appropriately since she was representing their family as a Yoon, not a Geum.

"Jan Di, today you are Yoon Jan Di, not Geum Jan Di," Ji Hoo reminded her. "For grandfather's sake, let's make sure you look presentable and respectful at the party. It's important to make a good impression on our family and their guests."

"OK," she responded, determined to do whatever it takes to make a positive impression. "I won't embarrass our grandfather."

Ji Hoo took her to the biggest mall to choose a beautiful gown and jewelry for her to wear to the event. As they walked through the mall, she could not help but feel overwhelmed by all the options available to her. She had never been to such a high-end mall before, and the abundance of designer brands and luxurious items made her feel like she was in a whole new world. Ji Hoo patiently guided her through the different stores, helping her navigate through the sea of choices and find something that truly reflected her style and personality.

"Wow!" she exclaimed upon seeing a white silk dress that caught her eye. "I think this one suits me well," she said while Ji Hoo was looking at another dress that caught his attention.

"Try both of them." Ji Hoo suggested it, wanting to see which dress would best match her style and personality. He knew that sometimes what we think suits us may not always be the best choice, and he wanted her to explore different options before making a final decision.

Jan Di went to the dressing room to try on the dress and see how it looked on her. She first tried on the pink dress Ji Hoo had seen. It was an elegant, classy evening dress with a fitted bodice and a flowing skirt that accentuated her figure, making her look like a graceful princess. However, she could not help but feel that something was missing, as if the dress did not fully capture her vibrant and energetic personality. She walked out of the room to show Ji Hoo, who had chosen it for her, hoping that he would understand her dilemma and help her find a dress that truly reflected her unique style. As she approached Ji Hoo, she could not help but notice the genuine excitement in his eyes, but she also sensed a hint of disappointment as he realized the dress did not meet her expectations.

"Try on the white one you like." Ji Hoo said it with a hopeful smile.

As she unzipped the dress, she savored every moment, enjoying the excitement that came with wearing something new. The soft fabric caressed her skin as she slipped it over her head. The strapless design accentuated her smooth collarbones and toned shoulders, while the high-low hemline drew attention to her shapely legs. The flowy skirt swished around her feet as she moved, adding a touch of elegance to her every step.

As she looked at herself in the mirror, Jan Di was awestruck. The dress hugged her curves perfectly, emphasizing her slender waist and highlighting her natural beauty. She could not help but feel proud of herself as she admired the stunning garment that she simply had to have.

Jan Di stood in front of Ji Hoo, twirling in the dress she had just tried on. "How do I look?" she asked, a hint of uncertainty in her voice.

Ji Hoo's eyes widened in awe as he took in her appearance. He could not believe how stunning she looked in the dress. Her beauty seemed to radiate from within, capturing his attention completely. He tried to compose himself before answering, not wanting to come across as too obvious. "You look beautiful, Jan Di. This dress was made for you," he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

Jan Di blushed at his words, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Thank you," she replied softly, feeling a rush of warmth spread through her body.

Ji Hoo could not help but feel drawn to her modesty and down-to-earth personality. She was unlike anyone he had ever met before, with an aura that effortlessly drew people towards her. He felt himself becoming increasingly captivated by her presence.

As she stood there, twirling in the dress, Ji Hoo slowly approached her and took her hand in his. He looked down at her, his eyes filled with a mixture of admiration and desire. He twirled her around once more. "I will choose the shoes for you," he whispered, a smile playing on his lips.

Jan Di felt a flutter of excitement in her stomach at his words. She could not believe how lucky she was to have someone like Ji Hoo in her life—someone who appreciated her for who she was, inside and out.


As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the street, a sleek and luxurious black SUV glided to a stop outside the entrance to Ga Eul's apartment building. It was Ji Hoo's driver behind the wheel, and he had arrived to whisk Ga Eul and Jan Di away to Grandpa Yoon's birthday celebration. Inside her apartment, Ga Eul had been carefully preparing for the evening's festivities, donning a breathtaking baby blue A-Line evening dress with a minimalist yet striking design. The dress was strapless and sleeveless, its floor-length satin fabric shimmering softly in the fading light. It featured a delicately tied bow at the back, adding a touch of feminine elegance to the overall look. Ga Eul looked stunning—her beauty and poise.

"What gift will you give Halabeoji?" Jan Di asked her best friend.

"I got him a watch," Ga Eul replied, showing Jan Di the expensive watch. "Woo Bin Sunbae is the one who bought it for me. And you?"

"A painting… I made a painting for him," Jan Di replied, her eyes sparkling with pride. "I wanted to give him something personal and meaningful. I hope he likes it." Ga Eul nodded in appreciation, impressed by Jan Di's thoughtfulness. They both knew that their gifts would be a small token of gratitude compared to the love and support Halabeoji had shown them throughout the years.

"No matter what you give him, in his eyes, you are like a granddaughter to him…have you forgotten that?" Ga Eul asked, her voice filled with concern. "I used to think a former president like him would treat you disrespectfully, but it turns out that he values and cherishes you deeply," replied Ga Eul, reassuring Jan Di.

"Let's go. Ji Hoo's driver is here to pick us up."


Ga Eul and Jan Di walked hand in hand into a grand hall adorned with exquisite decorations and furniture, as they joined the high-profile guests who had gathered to celebrate Ji Hoo's grandfather's birthday. The room was a spectacle, with sparkling chandeliers, luxurious floral arrangements, and a lavish buffet of mouth-watering delicacies that filled the air with a pleasant aroma. Soft music played in the background, creating an air of sophistication and elegance that made the two friends feel slightly out of place among the glamorous crowd. Ga Eul squeezed Jan Di's hand reassuringly, reminding her that they belonged there just as much as anyone else.

Harabeoji called Jan Di from across the room, beckoning her to join him. Jan Di and Ga Eul exchanged a quick nervous glance before Jan Di took the lead, and they walked towards him. Harabeoji was standing with his grandson, Ji Hoo, who was dressed in a white suit and was smiling warmly at Jan Di while holding a glass of champagne. "Come, and I will introduce you to our family friends," Harabeoji said, his eyes filled with pride as he gestured toward the rest of the guests.

Jan Di looked back at Ga Eul and whispered, "Let's go." Ga Eul was a little confused and asked, "But he only called you, are you sure he meant both of us?" Jan Di nodded, feeling a sense of belonging and acceptance as she took Ga Eul's hand and walked towards Harabeoji and Ji Hoo.

As they reached Harabeoji, both girls hugged him tightly, wishing him a happy birthday and expressing their joy at being a part of his celebration. "Well, my two granddaughters are here, and my grandson is also joining us," Harabeoji said, his eyes twinkling with joy. "I couldn't be happier to have all of you here to celebrate with me."

The girls presented the gifts they had brought, beautifully wrapped and with a special one that Ga Eul and Jan Di had made. "There is a special one that Ga Eul and I made for you," Jan Di said as she handed over the present.

"What is this?" Harabeoji asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Open it," Ga Eul replied with a smile.

Yoon Seok Young carefully unwrapped the gift, revealing a beautifully embroidered longevity scroll with intricate patterns and vibrant colors. The scroll was a symbol of good fortune and a wish for a long and prosperous life. "Very beautiful!" he exclaimed, her eyes filled with wonder and gratitude. The girls beamed with happiness, knowing that they had made a special contribution to Halabeoji's celebration.


"Mr. Yoon, can we have a family photo now?" the news reporter said, holding up a camera.

"Sure," Yoon Seok Young said, pulling Ji Hoo and Jan Di with him to the high table the big cake was sitting on.

"Is this girl a Yoon member as well?" the news reporter asked, pointing at Jan Di.

"Yes, this is my granddaughter," Yoon Seok Young replied proudly while he held Jan Di and Ji Hoo in his chest as the photographer clicked the photo, capturing the tender moment of the family sitting on the couch together. "Soon she will be my granddaughter-in-law."

"But I heard she is in a relationship with Mr. Gu Jun Pyo," the reporter pried further as if she had been paid off to uncover a scandal.

"I think that is none of your business." Ji Hoo spoke for the first time since the evening began, defending Jan Di's personal life. "Why don't you leave since you are done taking the photos?"

"I think Madam Kang is lurking around this place." Jan Di said softly to Ji Hoo and grandfather, her voice filled with concern while she looked around. Her eyes scanned the grand hall, where guests were mingling around. Ga Eul and Woo Bin were talking while drinking and enjoying the food that was served.

"Grandpa, don't worry about me." Jan Di said, squeezing Halabeoji's hand. "This is your night and thank the heavens for adding you another year."

"Yes, Grandpa, Jan Di is right. We are all here to celebrate and make this a memorable evening for you."

"Thank you both. Having you here makes this worth celebrating even more," he said, smiling.

Jan Di rose from the couch and extended her hand to Grandfather. "May I have this dance?"

"You youngsters are tiring me out," he chuckled, but he took her hand and stood up. Ji Hoo smiled warmly seeing his grandfather being led to the dance floor. Jan Di guided Grandfather with gentle steps, cherishing the precious moment they were about to share.


As they swayed to the music, Jan Di could not help but feel grateful for this special moment with her beloved grandfather. "Grandfather…you and Ji Hoo Sunbae are the best things that have happened in my life," she whispered, joy gleaming in her eyes.

"Are you sure about it?" he asked, seeking reassurance from her beloved granddaughter, Jan Di.

"I'm sure," she replied, holding his hand tightly as the dance continued, "You and Ji Hoo Sunbae have shown me so much love and support, and I couldn't be more grateful. You both hold a special place in my heart." Her grandfather smiled warmly, his eyes filled with pride and affection. "Thank you for always being there for me," she whispered, feeling the warmth of his embrace.


"May I have this dance?" A beautiful woman with long blonde hair approached Ji Hoo, extending her hand towards him.

"No thank you," Ji Hoo politely declined, his eyes still fixed on Jan Di and his grandfather in the distance, who were peacefully dancing. Granddaughter and grandfather are having their first dance.

"Is she your cousin?" the woman asked, pointing at Jan Di with a puzzled expression on her face.

"No," Ji Hoo replied, shaking his head. "She is a friend of mine and like a granddaughter to my grandfather."

"My dad is one of the shareholders of your company, Mr. Soo. My name is Soo Mi," she said, introducing herself confidently. She was dressed in an elegant blue tulle ball gown that perfectly hugged her curves and accentuated her cleavage, making her look sexy and irresistible. She had an air of sophistication and confidence that commanded attention from everyone in the room, but Ji Hoo's eyes were not on her, apart from Jan Di, who walked back to the table with his grandfather.

Ji Hoo's eyes were fixed on Jan Di, who had a captivating presence that drew him in completely.

"Shall we dance?" Soo Mi demanded, trying to catch Ji Hoo's attention and pull him away from Jan Di. He caught the sight of Soo Mi's father, who folded his arms and gave him a subtle brow raise, silently questioning him. Ji Hoo reluctantly agreed and followed Soo Mi to the dance floor. He positioned his hand on her waist while maintaining a distance between him and Soo Mi to avoid any misunderstanding or discomfort.

He looked across the room only to see Jan Di watch him uncomfortably while she shoved a piece of meat in her mouth and stuffed her face with food. Ji Hoo felt a pang of guilt as he noticed Jan Di's discomfort, realizing that his actions might have hurt her.

"What is so special about her?" Soo Mi asked, drawing Ji Hoo's attention. "Is she more beautiful than me?"

"Jan Di-ah...even saying her name is sweeter than honey." Ji Hoo confessed; his voice filled with adoration. "The most beautiful girl that drives me crazy but at the same time keeps me calm and collected."

"Psshh!" Soo Mi sneered, rolling her eyes in disbelief.

"She has no class or manners,"

This time Ji Hoo looked down at her and asked, "How many men do you have to entertain at once? Make sure I am not on that list because you will never get anything from me." He said, his voice filled with disgust and disappointment, and walked over to Jan Di, who was now talking with Ga Eul and Woo Bin.

When the waiter passed with another tray of champagne flutes, Jan Di took one. She took a big gulp and made a face. She was not used to drinking, after all.

"Not a fan of champagne, eh, Otter?"

Jan Di's head snapped up to see Ji Hoo standing over her, smiling.

She chuckled awkwardly. "I guess not. Ya, what happened to…?" and Jan Di looked out on the dance floor. Woo Bin was now dancing with Ga Eul.


"Tired of dancing already, Sunbae?" Jan Di quipped, looking away from him. She immediately realized how jaded it came out, and she had not intended that. Feeling slightly humiliated, she forced down another gulp of the bubbly alcohol.

"No," he replied, "…I just wanted to dance with you instead."

Jan Di felt a brief spike in her heart rate, and she looked up at him with large doe eyes. "Really?" she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of surprise and hope.

Ji Hoo flashed his flawless smile. "Of course, silly otter. So…would you do me the honor?" and he held out a hand to her.

Jan Di was tempted to say no, for she was still reeling over the mishap from this morning, and now, the bitter poison of jealousy was coursing through her veins. She just could not help feeling a bit…irritated that he had chosen to dance with Soo Mi first… And he had danced so closely with her… She knew it was wrong to feel this way, but she could not help it… she could not help but feel consumed by thoughts of betrayal. Still, his smile always melted her doubts away, even if only in the short term. And she could not say no to it. So, she took his hand.

He guided her onto the dance floor and positioned his hands. And they began to dance.

Ji Hoo wrapped his arm snugly around Jan Di's waist and held her close, for the second time that day, unbeknownst to Ga Eul.

As they swayed to the music, Jan Di could not help but place her arms around his neck while he placed his arms around her waist, and they danced as if no one else was around. Their faces were inches apart, and the electricity between them was palpable. "You are the only woman I want to hold this close for the rest of my life," he said, gazing into her eyes with overwhelming love and devotion.

Jan Di's heart fluttered at his words, and she felt a surge of warmth spread through her, drawing herself closer to him. As they swayed to the rhythm of the music, Jan Di whispered softly, "I never want this moment to end. Being in your arms feels like home." She could feel their connection growing stronger, and she knew deep down that this was just the beginning of a beautiful journey together.

"Shall we go somewhere private?" He asked, taking her hand, and leading her to the top floor of the building where they could have some privacy.

Then, Woo Bin caught Ga Eul's hand for a more upbeat dance when the music changed, spinning her around the room and dipping her at the end.


"S-Sunbae…" she uttered tenderly as soon as they got to the rooftop.

"Still Sunbae, huh?" Ji Hoo smiled, closing the short distance between them once more.

"What would you like for me to call you, Sunbae?" she asked.

Ji Hoo revealed his brilliant smile; he seemed to take some kind of amusement in the question. He rubbed his chin and raised his eyes to the sky.

"You can keep calling me that if you want to…," he said, wrapping his arms around her small waist.

"You can call me whatever you want…" His voice was like a caress. Then, he leaned into where his lips were just…about…touching hers, but not quite… And he was just lingering there, smiling at her, teasing her… It wasn't like she didn't deserve it… for trying to avoid what she knew deep down was inevitable.

After what seemed like an eternity—his willpower greater than her own—Ji Hoo's lips met Jan Di's, and she felt as though fireworks were exploding within her heart.


Each of Ji Hoo's kisses was unique, special, like a snowflake… It was all so new to Jan Di. She hadn't kissed him since that night in New Caledonia, and now she realized just how much she had missed the feeling. The emotions she had suppressed for so long and the longing she had buried deep within her came rushing back with a force she couldn't ignore.

The softness of his lips against hers brought a sense of warmth and familiarity that she had craved for months. It felt like coming home.

Ji Hoo had resolved to take things very slowly with Jan Di, and he was a patient guy, so it should not be a problem for him. He'd been testing the waters with Jan Di to determine how slowly he should take things exactly. But this whole incident had made Ji Hoo bolder, and he took the liberty of deepening the kiss.

They finally broke the kiss and looked into each other's eyes. They were still holding one another, smiling, and faintly catching their breath.

"Otter..." Ji Hoo said. Jan Di's heart fluttered at the affectionate nickname Ji Hoo had given her. It was a small gesture, but it made her feel special and cherished. She couldn't help but blush as she whispered, "Yes, Ji Hoo?"

And their lips met once more in a passionate and tender kiss.

And this time, Jan Di participated. As his lips parted, she followed suit, both of hers perching upon his bottom lip. He held her tighter around the waist, and she wrapped her hands around his neck and then slowly ran her fingers upward, allowing herself the pleasure of twining them through his luxurious, tawny hair.

This was wrong; they both knew it deep down. But in that moment, they couldn't resist the intoxicating pull of desire.


I hope you enjoyed this chapter…as much as I did. The plot twists and character development really kept me engaged throughout, and I hope that is what you felt as well.