Jun Hee, wearing a stern expression, marched around the mansion, clutching a stick in her hand. Her brother, Gu Jun Pyo, sat before her, pouting as she gave him a lecture.
"Do you know the type of guys I hate the most?" she asked him, her voice firm.
Jun Pyo shrugged. "Narrow-minded, selfish, and unforgiving guys?" he guessed, not meeting her gaze.
Jun Hee nodded. "And what type unfairly flaunts his power?"
Jun Pyo closed his eyes, a small grin playing on his lips. Beside him, Woo Bin and Yi Jung watched on with interest. "Selfish guys," he replied.
"How about a guy who is unable to forgive their friend for their past mistake?"
"A narrow-minded man," Jun Pyo said.
Jun Hee continued. "And a guy who can't accept the consequences of his actions?"
"Unforgiving guy," Jun Pyo responded.
"Okay, now Ji Hoo and Jun Pyo, play a game together and accept the consequences together," Jun Hee commanded.
But Ji Hoo, Jan Di, and Jun Pyo all replied in unison, "No!"
"Why?" Jun Hee asked, pointing at Jan Di and gesturing for her to speak.
"Because I am not a toy, and no matter what game you play, I will not change my decision," Jan Di said, firm in her stance. "Gu Jun Pyo was never my boyfriend, and I am not interested in him whether he wins or not."
Ji Hoo nodded in agreement. "Nonna, I know you are our sister—big sister, but I won't forget that you are Gu Jun Pyo's biological sister and that you are willing to get him whatever he wants, including Jan Di and I won't allow it. Yesterday you said too much, but now I will not let you force us to play games only to win a girl who isn't an object to be won. Jan Di is her own person with her feelings and choices. We should respect that and not manipulate the situation for our gain."
Woo Bin chimed in. "This game is for settling disputes and conflicts, not for controlling someone's emotions or decisions."
Jan Di interjected, "But I already rejected Jun Pyo, and because I rejected him, he should respect my decision and move on." She crossed her arms, her voice filled with determination.
"Gu Jun Pyo, why did you say no to the trials?" Jun Hee asked his brother.
"Because I don't need to prove to anyone that Jan Di is already my girlfriend and Ji Hoo stole her from me."
Jun Hee raised an eyebrow, clearly taken aback by her brother's statement. "Wait, so you're saying that Jan Di is already in a relationship with you, and Ji Hoo somehow interfered?" She questioned, trying to make sense of the situation.
The conversation grew tense as Yi Jeong responded to the question about Ji Hoo's involvement. Yi Jeong had been grappling with the situation ever since Ga Eul revealed that Jan Di was in love with someone other than Jun Pyo. After connecting the dots, Yi Jeong figured out that Jan Di's heart belonged to Ji Hoo. This knowledge caused him to refuse to speak to Ji Hoo and try to distance himself from the situation. Yi Jeong was deeply troubled by the fact that Ji Hoo and Jan Di had been seeing each other secretly, behind Jun Pyo's back. The betrayal from both his close friends was hard to fathom, and Yi Jeong couldn't shake off the feeling of hurt that lingered inside him. It was difficult for him to understand how they could deceive Jun Pyo in such a way, given their close friendship.
Ji Hoo, his voice filled with hurt, questioned how he could have interfered in Gu Jun Pyo and Jan Di's relationship. He turned to Jan Di, who also looked towards him. Gently taking her hand, he said her name. "Jan Di-ah, did I ever force you to be with me?" he asked, his eyes searching hers.
Jan Di looked down at their interlaced hands, then back up to meet his gaze. She smiled at him, squeezing his hand softly. Her words were full of sincerity as she reassured him of her feelings. "Ji Hoo, it was my choice to be with you. Nobody could have forced me into that decision. I was drawn to you because of the genuine connection we shared."
Ji Hoo smiled knowingly at Gu Jun Pyo. "I think you've got your answer now," he said.
Woo Bin chimed in, proposing a test to see if Jan Di and Ji Hoo's love could withstand the trials and tribulations of life. "Ji Hoo and Jan Di love each other, but we have to see if their love or bond can withstand these tests. What do you say? Shall we put it to the test?"
Gu Jun Pyo hesitated. No!" he exclaimed in objection, not wanting to risk the bond between Jan Di and Ji Hoo. He had already noticed their connection from the beginning, and he knew that putting their love to the test would only make it grow stronger.
However, Ji Hoo, Jan Di, and Yi Jeong replied in unison, "Yes."
Jun Hee, with a mischievous smile, sided with them. "Five against one, Gu Jun Pyo," she said. "It's only fair to put their love to the test and see if it truly stands the test of time."
A machine was brought before Ji Hoo, Jan Di, and Gu Jun Pyo. "What's this?" Ju Pyo asked his sister, annoyed.
"In this machine, there are different balls with different activities." Jun Hee said pressing the button allowed the balls to start rolling out. "Each ball represents a different challenge that the three of you will have to complete together," she explained. "Ji Hoo and Jun Pyo will have to have at least two wins to be considered winners. The winner makes the final decision. Jun Pyo, pick a ball."
Jun Pyo reached for the machine and picked out a blue ball, followed by Jan Di, who eagerly grabbed a yellow ball. The remaining three balls and Ji Hoo took out the red one. "Give me your balls." Woo Bin said to them with a mischievous grin. Reluctantly, Ji Hoo, Jun Pyo, and Jan Di handed over their balls to Woo Bin, unsure of what he had planned.
"Gu Jun Pyo's ball first." Jun Hee said he was pulling out a small piece of paper from the hole in the ball he chose. "Jun Pyo and Ji Hoo will be competing, and the first activity is horseback riding, and the weather is perfect tomorrow."
"The rest of the two balls have their days." Woo Bin said.
"What about me? Which activity will I compete in?" Jan Di asked suspiciously. Somehow, she could tell that Jun Pyo and Ji Hoo were competing in these activities to win her over.
"Do you know how to ride a horse?" Jun Hee asked.
"No, I don't," was Jan Di's quick answer as she walked out of the Gu Mansion. Ji Hoo followed her on a simple jog and caught up with her.
...
"Jan Di-ah," Ji Hoo called out, "I can teach you if you want!"
"No, thank you. I am hungry. Can we grab something to eat?"
"Sure, let's find a restaurant nearby," Ji Hoo replied, walking over to his parked motorbike in the parking lot. He took the extra helmet and gently slipped it onto her head, making sure it was secure, and slipped the other over his own head.
They both hopped onto the motorbike, and Ji Hoo revved the engine, zooming off towards the nearest restaurant. "What do you want to eat?" he asked, turning slightly to look at her with a warm smile. "I know a great place that serves delicious Chinese," he suggested, eagerly awaiting her response.
"OK, I rarely eat Chinese food."
"Do you want us to go back to my restaurant or try somewhere else?"
Ji Hoo asked, his eyes filled with curiosity. He wanted to make sure she was comfortable and enjoyed her meal. "I can also recommend fantastic Italian dishes," he added, eager to accommodate her taste. "At the rooftop. Remember our first date?" he said with a smile.
"Let's try Italian," she suggested.
"Sure, my love." Ji Hoo replied, adding my love to the end of his sentence, making her heart melt.
"My love?" she whispered, feeling a rush of warmth and affection.
"Don't you like it? My love."
"I like it a lot," she admitted, a smile spreading across her face. "Then...what should I call you?"
"Call me anything you want," he replied softly, his voice filled with tenderness. "I just want to hear your voice saying it," he added, his eyes sparkling with adoration. "It doesn't matter what name you choose, as long as it's from your heart."
She paused for a moment. "Hmm... let me think about it," she said, a smile forming on her face. "Ahh! ...Oppa, how about I call you Oppa?" she suggested, her voice filled with excitement.
"Oppa, that's perfect!" he exclaimed, his eyes lighting up with joy.
"But Oppa is old-fashioned," she replied, her tone thoughtful. "I think I'll come up with a more modern nickname for you."
He chuckled, his smile never fading. "Oppa is perfect for me," he said, grinning.
She couldn't help but blush at his response, feeling a warmth spread through her. "Well then, Oppa it is," she said, her voice filled with affection. "I'm glad you like it." The two of them continued to exchange smiles, their happiness clear in the way they looked at each other. It was a simple moment, but it held so much meaning for both.
"Hold me tight." Ji Hoo whispered as he pulled her closer, cherishing the warmth of their embrace as they continued their ride to the restaurant. The world seemed to fade away, and all that mattered at that moment was the love they felt for each other.
…
Ji Hoo and Jan Di arrived at the restaurant and were greeted by a host who escorted them to the rooftop. The climb up the stairs left Jan Di with a sense of anticipation, wondering what surprises Ji Hoo had in store for her. As they made their way to the rooftop, she couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building within her.
When they reached the top, Jan Di was left speechless. The view from the rooftop was breathtaking. She found herself surrounded by a picturesque flower garden, with vibrant colors of the flowers against the backdrop of the clear blue sky. The scenery was vastly different from her last visit at night, and she was struck with awe at the beauty of it all.
As they settled down at the table, Ji Hoo noticed the look of amazement on Jan Di's face. It filled him with a sense of pleasure to have arranged this surprise and see her so happy.
Jan Di observed, "It looks different during the day."
Ji Hoo replied, "The daytime brings out a whole new charm to this place. It's as if nature itself is putting on a breathtaking show just for us."
Jan Di nodded in agreement, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she took in the enchanting scenery before them. She was completely taken by the beauty of the garden and couldn't help but appreciate the effort Ji Hoo had made to make this special moment happen.
Ji Hoo then reached for a peony from the flowerpot next to him, recalling she loves this kind of flower, and handed it to her with a smile on his face. "Here, this peony is for you," Ji Hoo said softly, his voice filled with warmth. "Just like this place, it's beautiful and captivating, just like you, My love."
Jan Di blushed, feeling her heart race at his sweet gesture. She took the flower from Ji Hoo's hand, holding it delicately between her fingers. As she looked up at him, she could see the love and admiration in his eyes, making her feel special and loved.
"Thank you, Oppa," she whispered, her voice filled with genuine happiness. "You always know how to make me feel special."
Ji Hoo took her hand in his own, brushing against her knuckles gently as he replied, "I want to make you feel special every day, just like you make me feel." Then he raised her hand to his lips and placed a gentle kiss on her hand, allowing his lips to linger for a moment before placing it back down.
She blushed and smiled, feeling her heart melt at his sweet gesture. "If you keep treating me this way, I might forget who I am," she jokingly replied, causing him to chuckle. "Don't make me get used to it," she said playfully, as they both continued to enjoy the warmth of the moment, knowing that their love was starting to bloom and grow stronger every day.
"Chicken Alfredo pasta and lemonade for you," the waiter said, placing two big plates before Ji Hoo and Jan Di and two glasses of lemonade in front of them. "This pasta has been cooked with a rich parmesan cream sauce, chicken strips, and mushrooms. There is also fresh garlic bread on the side.
"Thank you," Ji Hoo and Jan Di said in unison with grateful smiles. "Can you make Tagliatelle pasta in smoked salmon, cream, and lemon with parmesan cheese and park it?" Ji Hoo asked the waiter.
The waiter nodded and replied, "Of course, sir. Your order will be ready shortly, and you can have it on your way out."
"Thank you," Ji Hoo said, giving the waiter a grateful smile.
"You're welcome, and enjoy your meal," the waiter responded, returning the smile and walking away to attend to other customers.
Ji Hoo turned to Jan Di, who was eagerly waiting to dig in. "Can I start already? I'm starving!" Jan Di exclaimed, holding her fork and knife in anticipation. "Go ahead," Ji Hoo replied with a chuckle. "But let's make sure to save some room for dessert later." Jan Di nodded eagerly, and they both began to enjoy their meal. "How is it?"
"Wow! This pasta is amazing," Jan Di exclaimed, taking another bite. "The flavors are so rich, and the pasta is perfectly cooked."
Ji Hoo smiled and nodded in agreement. "I'm glad you like it. The chef really knows what they're doing." They continued to savor their meal, appreciating each delicious bite. "Try the bread while it's still warm," Ji Hoo suggested, breaking off a piece and passing it to Jan Di with a smile.
"You have an amazing chef here," Jan Di commented, taking a bite of the warm bread. "The crust is crispy, and the inside is so soft and fluffy. It's the perfect complement to the pasta." Ji Hoo chuckled, pleased with Jan Di's enthusiasm.
"I'm glad you're enjoying it. Can you now smile for the camera?" Ji Hoo asked, pointing towards the photographer who was taking photos of them enjoying the pasta.
"There is a camera?" Jan Di asked, looking around in surprise. "Why?"
"Have you forgotten I told you there is a promotion for my restaurant?" Ji Hoo replied, looking happy. "It will be on the billboards around the city for everyone to see."
"But I am not well dressed; it will look a mess," Jan Di protested, feeling self-conscious. "Let me get changed, and then we can take some promotional photos to make sure we look our best."
"Sure, I will do the same," Ji Hoo replied, understanding Jan Di's concerns.
Jan Di found herself in awe as she looked down at her reflection in the full-length mirror. She couldn't recall how it had happened, but she was now adorned in an exquisite White Romantic-Floral Collar Sleeveless Chiffon Floral, Strawberry Casual Dress. The dress hugged her figure perfectly and was adorned with intricate embellishments that sparkled elegantly in the light. Its slight stretch provided both comfort and a flattering fit, enhancing her curves in all the right places. Her bare shoulders and collarbones added a touch of sensuality to the overall look.
As she twirled in front of the mirror, she couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence and femininity. The dress's flowing chiffon skirt gracefully swayed with each movement, making her feel like she was floating on air. The vibrant strawberry color brought out the rosy hue of her cheeks, giving her a radiant glow that complemented her natural beauty. She knew that this dress would be perfect for any occasion, whether it be a romantic dinner or a casual outing with friends.
"Shoes," the makeup artist said while giving her a romantic makeup look that perfectly complemented the outfit.
"Isn't this too much?" Jan Di asked while the hairstylist sprayed her hair with a touch of hairspray for added volume and hold.
"This is a promotion for Mr. Yoon." He wants everything to be perfect," the makeup artist replied, carefully applying a cherry lip color to Jan Di's lips and adding a gold necklace to complete the look.
"Where are the shoes?"
As the door opened, Ji Hoo strode into the room with a confident gait. He was dressed in a black-fitting t-shirt that hugged his muscular physique, paired with white jeans and a matching white coat. His sleek black boots made a distinct clack as they hit the floor, emphasizing his presence. "They are here," he announced in a deep and commanding voice, his piercing gaze fixed on Jan Di, who looked simply breathtaking in her casual dress.
"You look beautiful," he whispered, his voice filled with admiration and affection.
"You are handsome," she replied with a shy smile. And everyone in the room couldn't help but notice the chemistry between them. Time stood still as Ji Hoo approached her with a box that, in her shoes, matched her outfit perfectly.
"These are for you," he said, presenting her with a pair of lace pink pearl stiletto platform shoes. He knelt before her and gently slipped them onto her feet. "I think you are ready to go. Your ensemble is now complete for the photo shoot."
"Yes, Mr. Yoon," the makeup artist said, organizing Jan Di's final touches.
Ji Hoo and Jan Di arrived at the rooftop, where the photo shoot was to take place; the sun was shining brightly, casting a warm glow over the two of them. The photographer gave them detailed instructions on how to pose, ensuring that their love for each other would shine through in the photographs. "You will have romantic poses while feeding each other the food," he said, as he arranged their seats. "Be natural and let your love for each other radiate."
Ji Hoo was a seasoned model and knew how to pose for the camera. He was very helpful and made sure Jan Di was comfortable and in the perfect spot for their romantic pose. The photographer gave them a few more instructions before they began. "You are doing great; just keep being yourselves," he encouraged, snapping pictures of their every move. "Kiss her forehead before you join her for a meal."
Ji Hoo leaned in and gently kissed Jandi's forehead, showing his affection for her. As they began to enjoy their meal together, their genuine connection and love for each other radiated through every frame captured by the photographer. They laughed and talked as they fed each other, and their eyes sparkled with joy.
The photographer then directed them to take a sip of their lemonade together, creating a touching and intimate moment between the two of them. Jan Di shyly walked over to Ji Hoo, who was smiling warmly at her. She carefully positioned herself on his lap, feeling a sense of comfort and belonging in his embrace. Two straws were placed in the glass, waiting for them to sip it together. As they leaned in, their eyes locked, and they shared a sweet and playful sip, their lips brushing against the straws. The photographer captured the moment perfectly, freezing their love in time.
"That's wonderful," the photographer said, admiring the genuine affection between them. "Two more to go." Ji Hoo and Jan Di smiled at each other as another photo was to be taken of the restaurant's name, which hung on the sign by the edge of the glass balcony. The photographer carefully adjusted the lighting, creating a soft, romantic glow that bathed the couple.
Jan Di was instructed to approach Ji Hoo, who stood by the sign of the restaurant's name and wrapped her arms around his waist. Ji Hoo pulled her closer, his eyes filled with warmth and adoration. The photographer took several shots, capturing the couple's connection, which was full of love and intimacy.
"Mr. Yoon, it's your turn," the photographer instructed him to say a few words about his restaurant and the inspiration behind its delectable dishes. Ji Hoo cleared his throat and began speaking confidently, captivating the audience with his heartfelt tale of culinary passion and dedication. As he spoke, Ji Hoo's words painted a vivid picture of the flavors and aromas that filled his restaurant, enticing the listeners to experience his culinary creations firsthand. The photoshoot ended with a sense of satisfaction, knowing that they had captured something truly special.
"As you and your girlfriend enjoy the breathtaking view from the rooftop, why not take a few more photos to capture the essence of your love? It's evident that this exclusive rooftop is only meant for VIP customers, so why not show off your status and enjoy the luxurious experience to the fullest?"
Jan Di sat patiently as the makeup artist applied the final touches to her already flawless complexion. Once finished, the photographer suggested a romantic dance amidst the beautiful gardens. Ji Hoo and Jan Di were more than happy to oblige, eager to showcase their love for each other.
Ji Hoo extended his hand to Jan Di, inviting her to join him on the dance floor. Jan Di blushed and gracefully accepted his invitation, feeling a rush of excitement coursing through her veins. The photographer encouraged them to be themselves and to forget that he was even there.
Ji Hoo and Jan Di focused on each other, completely ignoring the camera, and lost themselves in the enchanting music. Their movements were fluid and synchronized as if they were the only two people in the world. The photographer captured every intimate moment, and before he could say anything else, Ji Hoo, caught in the moment, leaned in even closer to Jan Di and gently brushed his lips against hers.
The photographer's eyes widened in surprise as he quickly adjusted his camera to capture the unexpected kiss. The genuine emotion between Ji Hoo and Jan Di created a breathtaking photograph that would forever encapsulate their deep connection.
"I think the cameraman is enjoying taking too much pleasure in capturing these romantic moments." Jan Di commented softly, a blush creeping up her cheeks.
"Don't worry, not all of these will be displayed in the final cut of the video." Ji Hoo replied, trying to ease her embarrassment. "But trust me, the ones that do make it will be breathtaking."
"Sure, I trust you," she said, a small smile forming on her lips. "But I can't help but feel nervous about how the viewers will react."
Ji Hoo kissed her forehead and whispered, "Don't worry, their reaction will be nothing short of awe-inspiring."
"Tomorrow is your competition between you and Gu Jun Pyo. You need to rest," Jan Di said concernedly.
"Sure, will you stay over at my place tonight?"
"I will talk to Ga Eul first and see if she's okay with it." She cleared her throat. "Can I keep the dress and the shoes?"
Ji Hoo smiled at her, almost laughing. "Of course, you can keep them. They are yours now."
"Even the necklace?"
Ji Hoo confirmed with a nod, his smile widening. "Even the necklace," he said, his smile widening even more.
…
"Did you bribe my best friend with dinner? Just allow me to stay here with you." Jan Di asked with a hint of suspicion in her voice, but she was still smiling.
Ji Hoo chuckled softly. "If I can buy her dinner or cook for her every single day, I will earn myself some points for being a great boyfriend to you."
Jan Di's smile widened at Ji Hoo's playful response. "Well, I guess I can't argue with that logic. Just make sure you save some of those cooking skills for me too!" she teased, her suspicion fading away.
"By the way, if this is all over, can I meet your parents?" he asked, a hopeful smile on his face.
"Of course," she replied, returning his smile.
"Jan Di-ah, while we are still growing. Can I show you the side you don't know about me?" He whispered, his eyes filled with longing.
"What do you mean?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
Instead of replying, he gently took her face in his hands and leaned forward. "You are very beautiful," he murmured, his forehead resting on hers as they stood there in the middle of his bedroom, which was dimly lit by soft candlelight. "I have always controlled my body, but today... today it seems like you have taken over every part of me, and I can't control it anymore."
"If you can't, then let it out." She whispered in his ear, sending shivers down his spine.
…
Jan Di was still inexperienced in love, but she'd picked up some tricks of the trade from him over the past days they had been dating. Jan Di's skills had slowly been improving, but honestly—for Ji Hoo—it didn't take much from her to excite him. Because it was her—the way she looked at him with those eyes full of longing and desire. It was the way she touched him—so tenderly yet with a hint of urgency. It was the way she whispered his name as if it held all the power in the world. Jan Di had unknowingly become his ultimate weakness, and he couldn't resist falling deeper into her spell with each passing moment.
Jan Di's kisses were typically modest—short and sweet. Still, she put her feelings into them. But this one—that she was currently bestowing upon him—was much different than any other she had given him. This kiss was slower, deeper, and more sensual, and it was lingering as if leading somewhere.
Ji Hoo decided to stop foolishly analyzing the kiss and instead participated, grasping onto her arms and pulling her against his chest.
They broke apart and stared into each other's eyes. Jan Di gave a nervous chuckle and glanced downward, hoping that her actions had articulately spoken the words she'd been afraid to…
"Jan Di-ah..." Ji Hoo whispered.
"Hm?" She looked at him curiously as he inched closer to her. And then he took her face in his hands.
She met his eyes just in time to see a look of pure love and longing before he captured her lips again with his own. He stroked her cheek lightly with his thumb as he deepened the kiss. As their tongues mingled, Jan Di thought of the first time he'd given her such a kiss—she'd been utterly shocked and didn't know what to do. She was also thinking about how amazing it was, and she wondered what was to come next.
She hoped that this time, their kiss would lead to something even more magical.
They finally broke the kiss, panting faintly. They looked at one another, and the tension surrounding them was palpable. They quickly looked away. It was so silly. Why were they suddenly acting so awkward around one another? But they both knew Ji Hoo was a very sensitive man, and his body can often react strongly to stress or discomfort, especially to the innocent touches she gives him.
Perhaps it was the unavoidable reality—both dangerous and alluring—that they were all alone…
Ji Hoo had the feeling that something was different tonight and that great changes were about to occur… Perhaps it was that sixth sense he seemed to have with Jan Di, or maybe it was just a gut feeling that he couldn't explain.
Ji Hoo was an observer by nature, and though he had limited experience with women—due to his strong loyalties—he still knew women well. He could always read their signs with ease, and he could read Jan Di best of all. Jan Di was an open book to Ji Hoo—his favorite book at that, a book he'd been reading, re-reading, and greatly enjoying since he met her. And he loved to discover all her little nuances between the lines each time he read. The small experience with Jan Di had given Ji Hoo the ability to practically read her mind. And without saying it, she seemed to be telling him that she wanted to move forward a bit with what they had.
They both wanted the same thing, but neither wanted to make the first move, probably out of fear of being wrong. Ji Hoo deliberated with himself. He certainly did not want to be wrong about something like this. It could backfire. The best thing, he supposed, was to talk about it with her openly and honestly and tell her what his body was demanding, but it was still too early for them to go there in their relationship, but they could experiment with different forms of physical intimacy to see what worked for both.
The corners of Ji Hoo's mouth twitched, and he pulled her in once more. She was leaning against him—he, against the door—with one of her thighs resting between his legs. She felt she should keep some distance, but he only drew her closer until her body was flush with his. She could feel the heat radiating from his body, igniting a desire within her that she couldn't resist.
Ji Hoo's hands rested on her waist, and she clung to his neck, shyly staring. Her eyelashes fluttered shut, and he placed soft kisses upon her rosy lips, her flushed cheeks, and each eyelid. Then he proceeded with firm yet gentle nips down her neck, tugging aside her hair to expose more skin. All the while, he ran his hands up and down the length of her back, and she embraced him tight around the neck. The moment was filled with intense passion and a sense of longing as they both lost themselves in each other's embrace.
It was all becoming too much for Ji Hoo to bear. And he suddenly broke away, breathless. "Do you…want me…to stop?" he asked in a husky voice, his words coming out broken. He had wanted to ensure that she was OK with everything that was happening, but he also needed to take a moment to regain control of his body.
He bit his lower lip.
Jan Di shook her head to indicate she did not want him to stop. It was the most thrilling head shake Ji Hoo had ever experienced, and he felt as though his heart would leap out of his chest. He pressed a sweet kiss on her lips.
"Are you sure about this?" he asked gently.
Shut up, you idiot! Ji Hoo's internal voice shouted at him.
Jan Di stared into his eyes for a moment while pondering. She bit down on her lip lightly and slowly nodded.
This was going to be a challenging night for both Ji Hoo and Jan Di, but Ji Hoo needed more time to be ready to jump to conclusions, and all he wanted was to take a big step in this relationship to see where it went. He decided to let her lead him.
Ji Hoo held Jan Di's hands and gazed into her dark orbs, wordlessly asking, 'What next?' He could easily take the lead but wanted to stay within his bounds. And she had started this whole thing, after all.
But Jan Di needed to learn herself. All she knew right now was that it was a very good thing they stopped for a moment to compose themselves. Now what…?
Jan Di cast her eyes downward, suddenly becoming distinctly aware of all that had taken place and where they were currently standing. Jan Di swallowed the hard lump in her throat. They exchanged an electrically charged look, and suddenly Jan Di was helping Ji Hoo remove his t-shirt.
…
Or, trying to rather... But it wasn't turning out like one of those romantic scenes from a movie, for Jan Di was struggling with the garment. Her fingers trembled with nervousness—she wasn't at all sure she should be doing this—as she tugged lightly at the hem of his shirt, like a child begging for attention.
Ji Hoo gave Jan Di a little smile and then placed his hands on hers to steady the shaking. He brought one of her hands to his lips to place a tender kiss on the knuckle. Jan Di smiled, and Ji Hoo gently released her hand.
And then Ji Hoo pulled the shirt over his head in one swift motion. Jan Di's eyes grew wide, and she stared in awe as he tossed it away. OK, so he made it look good, like in the movies...
She stood there—perfectly still and staring like a moron at Ji Hoo's bare chest. She suddenly needed to remind herself to do that little thing called breathing. Her lips parted as she gazed upon his magnificence, and she bit down hard.
Her breathing had practically come to a halt but was rapidly speeding up again, catching and exceeding its original pace. Her chest rose and fell heavily, and her heart seemed to be in a race with her breathing. He had already seen him, but the sight of him now sent a surge of adrenaline through her body.
Jan Di was now very much aware that she was staring at the naked chest of a man, and not just any man. But none other than Yoon Ji Hoo. Her… Her first love… And to her, the most beautiful man she'd ever seen… How could she be expected to keep control?
OK, Geum Jan Di, keep it together. Stay calm...
It wasn't as if she hadn't seen him without his shirt on before, but it had only been a glance and not at this proximity or in such a situation. She was determined to maintain her composure and not let her emotions sway her ability to stay in control.
She didn't have much time to look her fill, though, for Ji Hoo placed his hands upon her waist and pulled her closer. Jan Di gasped lightly in pleasant surprise.
As much as Jan Di was curious—she was certain of that—she was also fighting an internal battle once again. It was hard for her not to want to touch him badly, but she couldn't bring herself to do so. There was something about her anxiety that was enough to put out the fire within her, at least for the moment, and she stopped to think about what she had done so far.
Despite this, she reminded herself that this was her Ji Hoo. The man she trusted with her life and her heart was her firefighter, her prince, the one she knew beyond any doubt she could trust with everything she had. This thought immediately put her mind at ease and she felt a sense of relief.
Surely, he won't mind if I touch him.
After Jan Di's boldness had won over, she began to reach out to him…slowly, carefully… Ji Hoo stood there, watching her every movement, still in a state of shock, still trying to figure out what to do. Is this Geum Jan Di that he was looking at before him?
As Jan Di's fingertips approached his chest, they came within a few inches of it. She touched him—just barely—but then immediately recoiled as if she'd received an electric shock. "I'm—I'm sorry!" she muttered, casting her eyes to the floor.
Ji Hoo gave her that angelic smile of his. "No need to be sorry," he said in a silky voice. "You can touch me if you want to, Geum Jan Di. I am yours to touch, however you'd like, whenever you'd like…" His words were sincere.
Jan Di's cheeks flushed a lovely shade—matching the cherry blossoms in spring—at his bold statement.
Ji Hoo placed a hand behind her head and brought her in, pressing his lips to her forehead in that loving way of his. His hands were slowly brought up as he slowly interlaced his fingers with hers and gently placed her hands on the surface of his upper body, which was a firm and flat surface. As she felt the warmth of his touch, she couldn't help but smile.
When Jan Di placed her palms against his chest, she could feel the warmth radiating from him as well as the thump of his racing heartbeat as his palms touched hers. It was with a shaky breath that she dragged her hands slowly downward, tracing the grooves of his smooth, well-muscled chest, and she could feel his body shudder at the contact as she pulled her hands downward.
Present…
Ga Eul snapped a finger in Jan Di's face, bringing her back to reality. "Hey, Jan Di! Earth to Jan Di!" Ga Eul exclaimed, trying to get her attention. Jan Di blinked and shook her head, snapping out of her daze. "I wonder why I allowed you to spend a night at Ji Hoo Sunbae's place. You are not going back."
Jan Di chuckled, feeling a mix of embarrassment and gratitude towards Ga Eul. "I guess I got caught up in the moment," she admitted sheepishly. "But don't worry, Ga Eul, I'll make sure to set some boundaries from now on."
"The two of you have just begun dating; you are not allowed to do that. Remember, I told you Ji Hoo is uncircumcised; he is very sensitive to your touch," Ga Eul added with a mischievous grin. "So be careful, Jan Di."
"I promise, but we were trying to explore what we liked and what made each other feel good," Jan Di responded, blushing. "But I understand now that we need to take things slower."
"You said Gu Jun Pyo's horse is injured?"
"Hmm…he used a ragged road, which was a shortcut, just to win a race." Jan Di replied. "He was so determined to prove himself that he didn't consider the safety of his horse. It's really unfortunate and selfish of him."
"It serves him right. This is called karma," Ga Eul added with a hint of satisfaction. "Hopefully, this experience will teach him a valuable lesson about the consequences of his actions."
"I'm worried about the next competition." Jan Di said with a sigh.
"What is it?"
"Car racing."
I hope you enjoyed the chapter.