Hello!
Jan Di and Ji Hoo had shared the bed the entire night and woke up in each other's arms in the morning. Jan Di rested her head on Ji Hoo's chest and could hear his steady heartbeat while his arm wrapped around her back and another behind her head, holding her gently yet firmly. They both felt a sense of comfort and security in each other's embrace, but as they untangled themselves and got ready for the day, they couldn't help but wonder what their relationship truly meant to each other.
True, Ji Hoo had caught her off guard at the time of her vulnerability due to Jun Pyo's engagement to Jae Kyung, and they made love in the forest park, which seemed awkward at first but turned out to be a moment of intense passion and connection. However, they both knew that their relationship was complicated and that they needed to have an honest conversation about where they stood with each other.
They had spent the night in the lotus house once more, but there wasn't anything sexual about it; in fact, it was more than that; it was an intense connection between them that not even physical intimacy could match—it was a moment that their hearts and eyes engaged into a conversation that went beyond words. They both knew that they had to address the elephant in the room—their complicated relationship.
Ji Hoo slowly opened his eyes, and his gaze fell on Jan Di, who was sleeping peacefully against his chest with her arms wrapped around his waist. He smiled as he softly kissed her nose and whispered, "I love you." He began stroking her hair and thinking about the future. They had been through so much together, and he knew that they would continue to face challenges in their relationship. But he was willing to fight for her and stand by her side no matter what. He couldn't imagine his life without her.
Jan Di stirred in her sleep, and Ji Hoo held her tighter. He knew that she was going to wake up soon, and he wanted to savor this moment a little longer. As he looked down at her, he felt a surge of emotion—love, gratitude, and a deep sense of connection. Finally, Jan Di opened her eyes and smiled up at him. "Good morning," she said softly.
"Good morning," Ji Hoo replied, his voice filled with warmth. They lay there for a few more minutes, just enjoying each other's company. Then Jan Di sat up and stretched. "We should probably get up," she said with a yawn.
Ji Hoo nodded, but none of them wanted to get out of bed. Ji Hoo remained lying on it while Jan Di sat there, shifting, and said, "I have to go home and tell my parents what happened." Ji Hoo's expression turned serious as he sat up.
"Are you sure you're ready for that?" he asked gently.
Jan Di took a deep breath and nodded, determination in her eyes. "I have to tell them to start relying on themselves and stop waiting around for a rich boyfriend who will marry me off," she said firmly.
Ji Hoo reached out and took her hand, reassuringly squeezing it. "I'll be there with you every step of the way," he promised. Jan Di smiled gratefully at him, feeling lucky to have such a supportive friend by her side.
After school, Ji Hoo dropped off Jan Di at the porridge shop for her shift. She hadn't been able to tell Ga Eul where she had been the last two days, and she knew she was worried about her.
"Where have you been for the last two days? And where is your phone?" Ga Eul asked sternly.
Jan Di scratched her neck, avoiding her best friend's glare due to her absence. She could see even their boss was looking at her waiting for some answer, revealing a lotus yoga pendant in sterling silver with moonstone around it. "I'm sorry, Ga Eul," she said apologetically. "I lost my phone while in Macao, and Ji Hoo Sunbae got me a new one; I haven't used it yet," she replied, walking away nervously to change into the dress she normally uses for the job.
Ga Eul glanced at her suspiciously and decided to follow her to the dressing room. "What's with the clothes? And the necklace?" She asked once more placing her hand on her slender hips, tapping her right foot on the ground.
"I haven't gone home yet; Ji Hoo Sunbae gifted them to me since I had no clothes at his house," she explained halfway through changing. "He said he saw them and thought they would look good on me." Ga Eul raised an eyebrow, unsure if she believed the explanation.
Jan Di was trying to avoid the topic; she couldn't tell her best friend that she had lost her virginity to Ji Hoo, or she wouldn't hear the end of it.
"How about Jun Pyo Sunbae? What are you going to do about him? Do you still love him?" Ga Eul asked, sensing the tension in Jan Di's voice. Jan Di sighed, pulling on her shirt. "I don't know, Ga Eul. I thought I did, but after everything that's happened, I'm not sure if it's love or just familiarity, and besides, he called me a stain he wanted to erase."
Ga Eul frowned. "That's harsh. You deserve better than that."
Jan Di nodded. "I know, but it's not just about what he said. It's about how he treated me and the people around him. He has a lot of growing up to do." Ga Eul nodded in agreement. "You're right. But what about Ji Hoo? Do you have feelings for him?" Jan Di blushed and said, "I don't know. We've had a moment together, but I don't want to ruin our friendship by taking it further."
Ga Eul smiled knowingly and said, "Well, whatever you decide to do, I'll support you. You deserve happiness and love." Jan Di smiled back gratefully, feeling lucky to have such a supportive friend by her side.
Ga Eul nodded understandingly. "Well, you have time to figure it out; after all, he followed you to Macao the moment you left without letting him know. And in the meantime, enjoy those earrings. They really do look good on you." Jan Di smiled at her friend before walking out to begin cleaning the tables and dishes the customers were going to use. She and Ga Eul enjoyed helping at the porridge shop, even though it didn't pay them much, but somehow it made them feel like they were contributing something to their lives.
As Jan Di and Ga Eul spent time washing dishes and serving customers, Jan Di couldn't help but think about what she wanted to do since she couldn't swim anymore. She had always loved swimming, and it was her dream to become a professional swimmer, but after her accident, that dream seemed impossible. Jan Di wondered if there was something else, she could be passionate about and pursue as a career, and then her mind wandered off to the old man who owns the small clinic in the neighborhood.
"Can I really be a doctor?" she asked herself as she imagined the possibilities. Ji Hoo had promised her that they would fulfill this dream together, but her grades weren't good, especially in chemistry. The rest she didn't have any problems with it, but chemistry was a subject she didn't understand well because their teacher was unserious.
"You can," Ji Hoo's voice said, standing behind her. He had said he had a meeting at his company, and seeing him wearing his white suit, she had to say he was looking more handsome than ever. She turned around to face him, feeling a mix of surprise and excitement.
"But how?" she asked, feeling doubtful about her abilities.
Ji Hoo smiled reassuringly and said, "I'll help you study, and we'll work on it together. We can do this." With renewed hope, she nodded eagerly.
"Did you have dinner?" she asked as Ji Hoo stood dangerously close to her. Out of the corner of her eyes, she could see her best friend and their boss prying at their interaction.
Ji Hoo moved in until their lower bodies brushed, winding his arm around her waist, lifting her gently, and sitting her on the table. "I haven't yet," he replied against her ear, his lips continuing to suck on the flesh of it. She shivered; her mind clouded with desire. As much as she wanted to give in to him, she knew it was not the right time or place.
She gently pushed him away and said, "I'll get you some porridge."
"No," he said, grabbing her hand and pulling her back toward him. "I don't want porridge. I want you." His eyes bore into hers, filled with longing and need. She could feel the heat emanating from his body, and it was taking all her willpower to resist him after all they had made love the other day and it seemed their longing for each other was too much. The most surprising thing was she loved Gu Jun Pyo but a simple kiss from Yoon Ji Hoo triggered her feelings for Gu Jun Pyo and made her doubt if she really loved him or if he was just a rebound for Yoon Ji Hoo.
"Later?" he asked rubbing her arms up and down.
She nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. "Later," she whispered, her voice barely audible, and went to the kitchen to cook him porridge.
After her shift, Ji Hoo decided to take Jan Di home since she hadn't seen her parents since her return from Macao. He escorted her to his car, opening the door for her. He tightened the seat belt around her waist, his touch lingering for a moment longer than necessary. Their eyes met, and a spark of something unspoken passed between them, then to their lips, leaning into each other at the same time, hesitating, unsure of whether to take the next step.
"Jan Di-ah," he said, his face leaning closer, running his hand on her arm as a gentle reassurance. She could feel her heart racing, the anticipation building within her. The air around them seemed to crackle with electric energy as if they were caught in a magnetic field of attraction. Jan Di's mind was filled with a whirlwind of emotions, her thoughts consumed by the bond they had and the fact they made love without being in a relationship.
"Sunbae," she replied.
Ji Hoo then kissed her nose gently, his lips lingering for a moment before he pulled away. "I want to show you how much I love you every day but to do that, I need you…to…move in with me," Ji Hoo whispered, his voice filled with longing. Jan Di's heart skipped a beat as she looked into his eyes, feeling a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. The idea of living together felt both thrilling and daunting, but deep down, she knew that taking this step could bring them even closer together.
"Sunbae!"
"I know this was unprepared for and unexpected, but I've been thinking about it ever since the other night," Ji Hoo continued, his voice filled with sincerity. "I understand if you need time to think it over and discuss it with your family. Just know that my love for you will never waver, no matter what you decide."
"I will have to think about this carefully," she replied, her mind racing with thoughts of the future. She looked into Ji Hoo's eyes, seeing the genuine love and commitment he had for her. Despite the uncertainty, she couldn't deny the deep connection they shared and the potential for a beautiful future together.
Ji Hoo smiled, closing the remaining distance between them. He cupped her face gently in his hands and whispered, "Take all the time you need. Remember, no matter what happens, I will always be here for you." With those words, he leaned in and kissed her softly, sealing their unbreakable bond.
The kiss was gentle yet filled with passion as if they were pouring all their emotions into that single moment. Ji Hoo's touch sent shivers down her spine, and she couldn't help but melt into his arms. Time seemed to stand still as they embraced, their hearts beating in perfect harmony.
As they continued their kiss in the car, they hardly noticed Gu Jun Pyo watching them from his car. He couldn't believe what he was seeing. The sight of Ji Hoo and the woman he loved sharing such an intimate moment was like a dagger to his heart. Anger and jealousy surged through him, threatening to consume him entirely. But deep down, he knew that he had no one to blame but himself. His own arrogance and selfishness had driven her away into the arms of another man.
He had called her a stain he wanted to erase when she came to Macao to confess her love to him. He had been so harsh to her that he had shattered her heart into a million pieces. Now, as he stood there, watching her in the arms of Ji Hoo, he realized the gravity of his mistakes. The pain he felt was unbearable, a constant reminder of the love he had lost. Regret washed over him like a tidal wave, drowning him in sorrow and remorse. He wished he could turn back time and undo all the hurtful words he had said. But it was too late now.
All he could do was watch from afar, his heart breaking with every caress and every kiss they shared that created a bubble that separated them from the rest of the world. It was as if he were seeing their love story unfold before his eyes, but he was no longer a part of it. The realization hit him like a punch to the gut, leaving him feeling empty and hollow. He couldn't help but wonder what could have been if he had used other methods to protect her from his mother instead of insulting her in the name of protection. He replayed the painful memory in his mind, regret gnawing at him. The words he had hurled at her were like daggers, piercing through her heart and driving a wedge between them. If only he had chosen a different path, a gentler approach, to shield her from his mother's wrath. But now it was too late, and the consequences of his actions weighed heavily on his shoulders.
Breaking the kiss, Ji Hoo looked deep into her eyes, his gaze filled with adoration and understanding. "I want you to know that I will support you in whatever decision you make," he said softly. "I believe in us, and I believe in my love for you." His words were like a soothing balm to her soul, providing comfort and reassurance amidst the chaos of their circumstances.
Ji Hoo cleared his throat, breaking the moment, and got into the driver's seat. As they drove in silence, Jan Di couldn't help but wonder if there was more to their friendship than she had realized. She had always valued Ji Hoo's presence in her life, cherishing their deep connection and unwavering support for each other. But lately, there have been moments, like the one just now, where a flicker of something more seemed to pass between them. It was as if their souls were speaking a language only, they could understand, hinting at unspoken desires and hidden emotions.
Jan Di couldn't deny the growing curiosity within her, the longing to explore what lay beyond the boundaries of friendship. Yet she also feared the potential consequences that could arise from crossing that line. The uncertainty weighed heavily on her heart as they continued their journey, leaving her torn between embracing the unknown and preserving the beautiful bond they already shared.
After arriving home, Jan Di sat her family around their small table that evening. They all had their eyes on her, hopeful that her relationship with Gu Jun Pyo would work out when she went to Macao. She took a deep breath. "Huh...Gu Jun Pyo and I are not getting back together. He doesn't want to have anything to do with me," she said, not ready to look at the disappointment in their eyes.
"So, who will pay up our debts?" was her selfish mother's reaction. Jan Di's heart sank as she heard her mother's selfish response. She knew that her family's financial struggles were weighing heavily on her mother's mind, but she had hoped for some understanding and support in this difficult time.
"Honey!" her father said with a gentle tone, trying to calm the tension in the room. "Let's not jump to conclusions. We can find a way to manage our debts together as a family. Right now, let's focus on supporting Jan Di emotionally and helping her navigate through this challenging situation."
"But how?" Her mother snapped. "If she was Gu Jun Pyo's girlfriend, he would have paid off our debts—no, your gambling debts." She glanced at Jan Di. "This place has been bought off by the Shinhwa cooperation. Jun Pyo's mother is ruthless; she will kick us out on the streets in two weeks."
"But that's your responsibility for you and Appa to look after our family. Why must you always depend on me? Why?" Jan Di said this with frustration in her voice. She had always felt burdened by her parents' financial troubles and resented being held responsible for their mistakes. Jan Di knew that relying on Gu Jun Pyo's help was not a solution to their problems, but she couldn't help feeling overwhelmed by the weight of her family's expectations.
Out of her anger, her mother slapped her across the face, shocked by Jan Di's outburst. Tears welled up in Jan Di's eyes as she realized the extent of her mother's disappointment and frustration. "Gu Jun Pyo was our only hope!" her mother exclaimed.
"Gu Jun Pyo is engaged, and as you can see, he is engaged to an heiress who will bring income to their business. As you can see, his family is also depending on someone else!" She rorted and rose from the table, walking out of the house.
"Where are you going?" her father asked with concern.
Jan Di, out of disappointment and frustration she had for her parents, got all the money that was in her language and threw it on their table. Ji Hoo had given it to her when she lost her wallet in Macao. "I'm sure this will be enough to pay off your debts, and after that, find decent jobs for yourself to support this family. You can't keep relying on others to take care of you," Jan Di exclaimed, her voice filled with determination. "It's time for you to stand on your own two feet and provide for the family." With that, she stormed out of the house, leaving her parents stunned and speechless.
"Jan Di-ah," Gu Jun Pyo was on his car leaning against it, and judging from his face, she could tell he had it all.
"What are you doing here?" She asked him with frustration in her voice Jan Di's frustration turned into curiosity as she noticed the sincerity in Gu Jun Pyo's eyes.
"I heard what you said to your parents," he replied softly. "I want to help you become independent and support your family if you'll let me."
"I don't need you," she replied, walking away from him. She couldn't understand why he decided to show up at such a time when he was the one who threw her love for him back in her face when he called her a stain he wanted to erase. Jan Di's heart raced with conflicting emotions as she struggled to make sense of Gu Jun Pyo's sudden change in attitude. She couldn't deny the flicker of hope that ignited within her, but the wounds from his hurtful words still lingered, making it difficult for her to trust him again.
It hurt her so much now that he was engaged to another woman, yet he had no shame that whatever was happening was because of him. His mother was responsible for her family's suffering, yet Gu Jun Pyo seemed oblivious to the pain he had caused. She then recalled how his sister had asked her to give him a chance, but that change got ruined when he got engaged, and now, without any sense of shame or remorse, he flaunted his appearance as if nothing had happened. The betrayal ran deep, leaving her feeling like a fool, forever believing in his promises. The wounds of his actions were still fresh, and it seemed impossible for her to fathom how he could expect her to trust him again after everything he had put her through.
"Where are you going so late at night?" Jun Pyo approached her once more, trying to take her suitcase. His voice was filled with concern, but she couldn't help but feel a surge of anger toward him. She clenched her fists, fighting back the urge to snap at him, and instead replied, "It's none of your business. Just leave me alone."
"Are you in a relationship with my best friend?" he asked, his frustration evident in his voice. She looked at him, her eyes narrowing with disbelief.
"After everything that has happened between us, you still have the audacity to ask me that?" She replied, her voice laced with bitterness. "You should know better than anyone that trust is not something I easily give anymore. And yes, Ji Hoo and I have a deep connection; he is my soulmate, and I can't imagine living a life without him, but that's something someone like you will never understand."
"Are you going to see him? Why can't you just wait for me to sort out this engagement, and then we can be together? I can be your soulmate too," he pleaded, his voice filled with desperation. "I know I've made mistakes in the past, but I'm willing to change and prove myself to you. Please, give me a chance to make things right and show you the love and trust you deserve."
Jan Di smiled. "Do you remember when we went to New Caledonia?"
"Yes, why bring that up?"
"By chance, I met a fortune teller, and she was able to give me a hint of my future. She said I have two men in my life: one is my soulmate, and another is my husband. She then said I would lose something important in my life and that it would be up to me to decide which path to take. It got me thinking about us and our relationship. At first, I thought you were my soulmate, but when Ji Hoo Sunbae got close to me, I understood that out of all the men I have in my life, he is the one who balances out my life, the one who is willing to go through fire and water for me. He understands me in a way that no one else does, and our connection is undeniable. I realized that, while you may have been my true love, Ji Hoo Sunbae is the one who truly completes me."
Ji Hoo stood behind the wall, hearing all the confessions and realizations. He felt a mix of emotions—surprise, hope, and a tinge of sadness. It was clear to him that he had a special place in her heart, but he also understood the depth of her feelings for Gu Jun Pyo. Despite the sadness he felt, he knew that he was the only man who could complete her, and after all, they had made love.
He had given her a part of himself that no one else could, and this time he wasn't willing to step aside for Jun Pyo to hurt her again. Now that they had gone all the way, he was determined to fight for their love and make her realize that he was the one who truly deserved her. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but he was willing to do whatever it took to prove his worth and show her that their connection was deeper than any fleeting infatuation she had with Gu Jun Pyo.
…
"But—" Jun Pyo began to speak, but he was interrupted by his best friend coming out of nowhere. "Are you ready?" Ji Hoo said taking Jan Di's suitcase from Gu Jun Pyo's hands.
"What the hell?" Jun Pyo said, trying to snatch back the suitcase from Ji Hoo. Confusion and frustration filled his eyes as he watched Ji Hoo take charge, seemingly oblivious to the tension between Jun Pyo and Jan Di. Jun Pyo couldn't help but wonder if Ji Hoo was intentionally trying to sabotage his efforts to win Jan Di back.
"Jan Di-ah, let's go home. It's getting cold out here," Ji Hoo said, his voice filled with concern. Jan Di hesitated for a moment, torn between her loyalty to Jun Pyo and her growing feelings for Ji Hoo. She finally nodded, realizing that it was time to decide for herself and follow her heart, leaving Jun Pyo to stand there with sadness while recalling their memories together. As they walked away, Jun Pyo couldn't shake the feeling of losing Jan Di for good and wondered if he had made a mistake in pushing her away. He knew that he would have to face the consequences of his actions and find a way to win her back before it was too late.
Ji Hoo put her suitcase in the trunk of his car and rode to his house in silence. "I thought you had gone home, what happened?" Jan Di broke the silence.
"The alarm bell in my heart went off," he replied simply.
Jan Di looked at him with confusion, her brows furrowing. "Alarm bell? What do you mean?" she asked, wanting to understand his cryptic statement.
Ji Hoo sighed, his eyes filled with a mix of sadness and determination. "It's just… I couldn't have a good night sleep when you told me you wanted to talk to your parents. I got worried that something might have happened to you. I couldn't shake off the feeling of unease, so I decided to come back and make sure you were okay."
Jan Di's heart warmed at Ji Hoo's genuine concern for her well-being. She reached out and gently squeezed his hand, grateful to have someone who cared so deeply about her. "Besides, it was you who gave me the title of your firefighter, remember?"
Jan Di smiled; her eyes filled with warmth. "Of course, I remember," she said softly.
"And as your firefighter, it's my duty to always be there for you, no matter what."
Soon they arrived at the Yoon mansion, his traditional Korean-style mansion. This was her second time here but this time, it was becoming her home away from home. The familiar scent of incense filled the air as they stepped inside, and Jan Di couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging. She knew that she had found a place where she truly belonged with him by her side.
Ji Hoo carried her suitcase to his bedroom while Jan Di sat on the couch in the living room, taking in the elegant yet cozy atmosphere of the mansion. As she looked around, she noticed the walls adorned with beautiful artwork and shelves filled with books, reflecting Ji Hoo's refined taste and intellectual pursuits. Min Seo Hyun's painting was no longer hung on the wall, but only a picture of his friends, his dead family, and also her picture with him, the one they took in Macao during their trip together. The photograph captured a moment of pure happiness, with their smiles radiating genuine joy. Jan Di couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia as she remembered the memories they had created during that unforgettable time in Macao.
Ji Hoo returned shortly, taking her hand, and leading her to the dining room, which was so spacious and elegantly decorated. The chandeliers hanging from the ceiling illuminated the room, casting a warm glow on the long, polished dining table. The aroma of delicious food filled the air, making Jan Di's stomach rumble with anticipation.
Ji Hoo pulled out a chair for her and gestured for her to sit down. As she took her seat, Jan Di couldn't help but admire the intricate floral centerpiece adorning the table. It reminded her of the beautiful gardens they explored together in Macao, further deepening her sense of nostalgia.
"I will bring out the food for us to enjoy," Ji Hoo said with a smile, disappearing into the kitchen. Jan Di watched him go, feeling grateful for his thoughtfulness. As she waited, she glanced around the room, taking in the elegant decor and the soft music playing in the background. Everything seemed to be perfectly set for a memorable evening.
After a minute, he returned with a palm blossom-patterned set of dishes and bowls. The delicate porcelain plates and bowls were adorned with vibrant pink and green flowers, instantly capturing Jan Di's attention. He carefully set them on the table and looked at Jan Di, admiring the palm blossom on the bowl. "I purchased this pattern set during our trip. It's a Chinese set; do you like it?"
Jan Di smiled and nodded; her eyes still fixed on the beautiful porcelain. She reached out to touch one of the plates, feeling the smooth texture beneath her fingertips. "Its design is beautiful," she exclaimed, "and it adds such an elegant touch to someone eating from it."
"That's good." He smiled warmly while he placed a big, well-cooked fish in the middle. "I thought to give you my favorite meal, sweet and sour fish with a side of steamed rice and steamed vegetables. It's a traditional Chinese dish that pairs perfectly with the beautiful porcelain set. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do."
"Thank you, Sunbae." She reached for the piece of fish, but Ji Hoo took a piece and put it in her bowl.
"Have a taste. One of my chefs cooked it and delivered it to me. It's very beautiful to eat with someone in this place since I'm the only one who lives here," Ji Hoo said with a smile. "I thought sharing this special meal with you would be nice." As they began to eat, the flavors of the sweet and sour fish danced on their taste buds, complemented by the delicate aroma of the steamed rice and vegetables. The peaceful atmosphere of Ji Hoo's home added an extra layer of enjoyment to their dining experience.
"Thank you sunbae,"
"When we are in private, call me Ji Hoo, as we had agreed," Ji Hoo said warmly. "I want us to be comfortable with each other, especially in this intimate setting. I love it when you call my name; the sound of it rolling off your tongue brings me joy." Ji Hoo's words made her cheeks flush with a mix of embarrassment and delight. It was in moments like these that she felt a deep connection forming between them, one that went beyond just being friends.
The two of them continued to savor their meal, the conversation flowing effortlessly as they bonded over their shared love for food and the joy of spending quality time together.
After supper, Jan Di offered to wash the dishes, but Ji Hoo said they would do it together, though it wasn't necessary. Ji Hoo stood behind her, wrapping his arms around her while they laughed and splashed water playfully. The warmth of his embrace sent shivers down her spine, and she couldn't help but lean into him, feeling safe and cherished in his presence. As they cleaned the dishes together, their laughter filled the kitchen, creating a beautiful symphony of happiness that echoed through their hearts.
"Having you here is nice and comforting. I always feel lonely in this big mansion," Ji Hoo whispered softly into her ear, his voice filled with sincerity. "But with you by my side, it feels like a home filled with love and warmth."
"…really?" Ji Hoo's words caught her off guard, and she turned to look into his eyes, searching for any hint of doubt.
Ji Hoo's eyes met hers; his gaze was filled with genuine affection. "Absolutely," he replied, his voice unwavering. "You bring a sense of belonging that I've never felt before. You make this mansion feel alive like it's no longer just a cold and empty space. Being with you fills the void in my heart and makes it truly feel like a home."
"Ji Hoo-ah," she replied, her heart racing with a mix of joy and disbelief. "I never imagined that I could have such an impact on someone's life. You make me feel cherished and loved in a way I've never experienced before. I'm grateful to have you by my side."
"I want to make new memories in this place with you, Jan Di-ah. This is a place where I want you to realize how much I love you and how committed I am to showing my love to you. Let's create a lifetime of happiness and love together, building a future that is filled with endless moments of joy and contentment."
"But I have just ended a relationship with your best friend… I'm still hurt… and healing from the pain of that breakup."
"I know that…" he replied, kissing her forehead. "Believe me, I don't want to rush you into anything. I understand you need time to heal, and I will wait for you. My love for you is patient and unconditional, and I want nothing more than for you to be ready when the time is right. We can take things slow and support each other through this healing process together."
"Thank you…let's keep the dishes away and get ready for bed."
"Yes," Ji Hoo said, placing the dishes in the cupboard. After cleaning, he led her to his room, overlooking that there was someone at the door watching them with jealousy.
…
Gu Jun Pyo stood by Ji Hoo's entrance door with a clenched fist. His eyes burned with envy as he watched Ji Hoo and his partner disappear into the room. Deep down, Gu Jun Pyo knew that he had lost his chance with her, and now he was left to face the consequences of his actions.
Woo Bin and Yi Jung walked into the porridge shop to find Ga Eul closing. Surprised to see Ga Eul still working at this hour, Woo Bin and Yi Jung approached her with curiosity. As they got closer, they noticed the exhaustion on Ga Eul's face, prompting them to ask if everything was alright.
"I'm fine," she replied, forcing a smile. "I'm closing. Is there anything you want from me?"
Woo Bin and Yi Jung exchanged glances, sensing that something was off. Concerned, Woo Bin gently asked, "Are you sure you're okay? You seem really tired." Ga Eul hesitated for a moment before finally admitting, "Honestly, I've been working non-stop lately. It's been overwhelming."
"What about Jan Di?" Yi Jung asked, "Isn't she supposed to work with you?"
"She was here, but she has issues with her family she needs to solve first," Ga Eul explained. "She had to leave early today." Woo Bin and Yi Jung nodded understandingly, their worry for Ga Eul growing. They knew she needed a break from her hectic schedule, but they also knew that she was too dedicated to ask for one herself.
"Can you help us get Jan Di and Gu Jun Pyo back together? We believe that Jan Di and Gu Jun Pyo's relationship is something worth fighting for. With our support, we can work together to bring them back together and help them overcome any obstacles they may face."
"I'm sorry, but I believe Yoon Ji Hoo, out of all of you four friends, is the only one who will offer safe love to my best friend. I think you should ask Gu Jun Pyo what he did and why he lost Jan Di in the first place," she said firmly.
"But we know Gu Jun Pyo did all of this to protect her," Yi Jung said. "He may have made mistakes in the past, but I truly believe that Gu Jun Pyo has changed and is willing to do whatever it takes to make things right with Jan Di," Yi Jung added confidently. "We shouldn't underestimate the power of love and forgiveness in repairing their relationship."
"I didn't know you men protected your women by insulting them." Ga Eul retorted; her voice laced with sarcasm. "If Gu Jun Pyo truly loved her, he shouldn't have called Jan Di a stain he wanted to erase from his life. Words can leave lasting wounds, and it will take more than just words to prove his sincerity." Ga Eul's words carried a hint of disappointment, "Now that I am busy, I need to clean here before going home. Please don't come back with the idea of helping this absurd relationship by making excuses for Gu Jun Pyo's behavior. It's important to hold him accountable for his hurtful words and actions rather than brushing them off as mere protection." Ga Eul sighed, feeling a mix of frustration and concern for her friend, Jan Di.
Woo Bin and Yi Jung nodded in understanding, their expressions reflecting their shared concern for Jan Di. Woo Bin spoke up, "You're right, Ga Eul. Jan Di deserves someone who respects and cherishes her, not someone who constantly hurts her with his thoughtless words." Yi Jung added, "Jun Pyo was only trying to protect her from his mother."
"Get out!" Ga Eul exclaimed with a hint of anger in her voice. "Protecting someone doesn't give you the right to insult them. What Gu Jun Pyo did was not protect, and also, let's talk about his engagement. Do you have something to say? By getting engaged, was he protecting her, or was he just trying to control her? It's clear that his actions were driven by his own selfish desires to save his company, not genuine concern for Jan Di's well-being. Now, please, you are wasting my time. Get out." Ga Eul's voice trembled with frustration as she expressed her disapproval. "It's disappointing to see someone who claims to protect others resort to manipulation and control instead. Gu Jun Pyo's engagement seems more like a calculated move to further his own interests than ensuring Jan Di's happiness and safety." Her words hung in the air, emphasizing her disappointment in his actions. "Now, if you don't mind, I have better things to do than engage in this pointless conversation. Please leave "
Woo Bin and Yi Jung exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the truth in her words. Woo Bin sighed, realizing that their friend's actions had indeed taken a selfish turn. Yi Jung nodded in agreement, silently respecting her decision to distance herself from the situation. "We will drop you home," Yi Jung offered.
"No need; I will take her." A man with a deep yet gentle voice came from the door of the porridge shop. He was tall and had a comforting presence. His smile was warm and comforting, adding a nice aura to his handsome face. Woo Bin and Yi Jung exchanged glances, unsure of who this man was but sensing his genuine concern.
"Oppa!" Ga Eul exclaimed with surprise before running to the man standing by the door and giving him a tight hug. "I didn't expect to see you here!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with relief and gratitude. The man returned her hug, his eyes filled with affection as he whispered, "I heard what happened and couldn't stay away. I'll always be here for you, Ga Eul and Jan Di."
Who is he?
…
That was the end of the chapter.
Who is this man that showed up?
Stay tuned and find out soon.