I have been contemplating the idea of creating a sequel to Boys Over Flowers for a while now. However, I recently had an intriguing idea. I've always been curious about what might have transpired during the four years between the characters' graduation party and Jun Pyo's proposal at the end of the series. I believe there could have been significant developments between Jan Di and Ji Hoo during this time, given their strong connection. It was also a substantial period for Jan Di to reflect on her feelings for Jun Pyo. In my vision, the story would begin from Jun Pyo proposing to Jan Di before departing for America for four years.
It was a long-awaited day for Gu Jun Pyo as he stood at Namsan Ropeway, the towering structure offering a panoramic view of Seoul that left him awestruck. In his trembling hands, he held a small, velvety red box bearing a symbol of his unwavering love and commitment to Jan Di—a carefully chosen ring that spoke volumes of his devotion. The memories intertwined with the cable car ride back to their first date flooded his mind, invoking a blend of nostalgia and anticipation within him.
To ensure every detail was meticulously arranged for Jan Di's arrival, Jun Pyo had taken the initiative to order some delectable snacks and fragrant coffee from the nearby vending machine, knowing well that she cherished life's simple pleasures above all. As the minutes ticked by, his heart pounded with a mix of nervousness and joy, each beat a reminder of the profound moment that awaited him when he would bend on one knee and propose to the woman who held his heart.
Amidst the excitement bubbling inside him, Jun Pyo found solace in the certainty that Jan Di was truly the one meant for him; their destinies were intertwined in a bond that transcended time and space. Even as he anticipated her arrival, a flicker of concern nagged at the edges of his thoughts. His driver had yet to confirm Jan Di's presence, sparking a wave of worry within him, especially considering her involvement in the graduation party arranged by the F4, which had insisted on having her dance with them, casting a shadow of doubt over his meticulously planned proposal. "I wonder what is taking her so long."
"Gu Jun Pyo!" There was always a fun way when Jan Di mentioned his name, and the tone of it seemed like she would be ready for a fight with him at any moment. He couldn't help but smile at the thought of her fiery spirit, even in the midst of his own mounting anxiety.
He spun around to confirm her presence, despite being fully aware that she was there. "Why are you always late?" he inquired, his gaze fixed on her. As usual, she was adorned in her Shinhwa School uniform, a symbol of the culmination of her high school years.
Jan Di narrowed her eyes suspiciously and questioned, "Why did you ask me to come here?" Her voice carried a touch of irritation as she defiantly folded her arms. "I hope it's important," she added.
Jun Pyo regarded her with a solemn expression and asked, "Do you remember our first date here?"
Her gaze softened as she reminisced about the memory, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Of course I do; we were trapped in here for the entire night," she replied, the frustration giving way to nostalgia for their shared past.
Jun Pyo drew a deep breath before continuing, "I want to create more memories with you in this very place." Drawing close to her, he took her hand and guided her to the cable car that would carry them up the mountain.
"But it's nighttime; there's nothing to see," she objected.
Jun Pyo chuckled. "That's the whole idea. We'll craft our own vista up there."
At his words, Jan Di's heart skipped a beat, feeling thankful for the enduring love that had withstood the test of time and adversity.
As they ascended in the cable car, Jan Di's eyes wandered outside, reveling in the glittering lights of the city below that painted the night like a canvas of dreams. The gentle hum of the cable car's ascent mixed with the soft rustle of the night breeze, creating a symphony of serenity that wrapped around them like a warm embrace. Jun Pyo glanced at Jan Di, admiring how the moonlight danced in her eyes, casting a mystical glow upon her face.
"Isn't this beautiful?" he whispered, squeezing her hand affectionately.
Jan Di smiled, feeling her heart swell with gratitude for this moment and for the unwavering love that had brought them here. The rush of memories flooded her mind—from their tumultuous first encounter to the countless challenges they had overcome together. She knew that every trial had only strengthened the bond between them, like a resilient thread weaving through the tapestry of their lives.
As the cable car reached the summit, they stepped out into the crisp mountain air, greeted by a panoramic view of the city below, now transformed into a sea of twinkling lights. Jan Di gasped in awe, her earlier doubts dissolving in the face of such breathtaking beauty.
"Jun Pyo, this is... amazing," she uttered, her voice filled with wonder.
He wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her close as they stood side by side, gazing out at the shimmering expanse before them. In that moment, time seemed to stand still, allowing them to savor the magic of the night and the depth of their shared history.
"I wanted to recreate the magic of our first date because every moment with you feels like a new beginning," Jun Pyo confessed, his gaze soft and sincere.
Jan Di felt her eyes well up with tears of joy, overwhelmed by the tenderness in his words. She realized that their love was not just a fleeting emotion but a steadfast anchor that held them together, no matter the challenges they faced. In the quiet of the night, surrounded by the beauty of the world below, they found solace in each other's presence, knowing that their journey was far from over—it was just beginning anew, illuminated by the lights of the city and the promise of countless memories yet to be made.
As the cool night air enveloped them, Jun Pyo's enthusiasm was palpable as he led Jan Di off the cable car, their journey from lofty heights grounding them back to reality. "Are you feeling hungry?" he asked, a twinkle in his eye suggesting his plans beyond the present moment. "I've prepared some snacks for us to enjoy while we gaze at the moon and stars twinkling above," he offered warmly, setting the stage for a romantic interlude under the night sky.
Eagerly accepting his thoughtful gesture, Jan Di's radiant smile conveyed her appreciation as she shared in his excitement. "Absolutely, I could definitely go for a snack," she responded with genuine enthusiasm, her eyes reflecting the trust and love she held for him.
Jun Pyo presented her with a covered dish, and as she lifted the lid, Jan Di was surprised to find another smaller silver cover. "What's this? Am I supposed to eat dish covers?" she joked.
"Just open it," Jun Pyo responded with a mischievous grin. As Jan Di lifted the smaller cover, everything seemed to slow down. As she opened it, Jun Pyo simultaneously began getting down on his knees. Inside the smaller cover, a magnificent diamond ring sparkled under the moonlight. "Will you marry me?" Jun Pyo asked, his eyes filled with love and anticipation.
Jan Di gasped in surprise and shock. It was a moment she had been anticipating, but her heart wasn't quite prepared. Not because she didn't love him, but because she simply wasn't ready to accept his proposal yet. She scrambled to find a gentle way to stall for time. "Jun Pyo, we're both starting university and we're still so young. Can we wait a little longer before making such a big decision?" Jan Di said, hoping he would understand her hesitation. "We've been through so many challenges in our relationship, and now you're going to America for four years, and I'm preparing to start medical school."
"But you can come with me to America. I can provide everything you want, and you don't have to study," Jun Pyo pleaded, his frustration and desperation visible in his eyes.
"I can't just drop everything and follow you to America. I have my own dreams and ambitions," Jan Di responded firmly, knowing she had to stand her ground. "It's selfish for you to expect me to give up everything for your convenience."
As the realization settled in, Jun Pyo softened, acknowledging the validity of her stance even though it stung his heart. The hurt danced beneath his gaze, barely veiled by understanding. "I can support you in starting a business—"
Interrupting him with disappointment in her voice, Jan Di held steadfast, "What of my dreams? You never truly asked me what I desired from the start of our relationship." With sadness lingering in her eyes, she turned to gaze out at the world passing by the cable car's window, finding solace in the moonlit sky and the stars that silently witnessed their unfolding drama.
The weight of the moment heavy upon him, Jun Pyo asked once more, his voice tinged with vulnerability, "But will you accept the ring? Can you stay with me?" The gesture signified not just an engagement but a plea for her presence and her affirmation of his place in her life.
Softly, she declined, tears betraying her emotions. "Not now, Gu Jun Pyo. I need time to discover my own desires and to define myself outside of our relationship." His heart ached as the impact of her uncertainty settled in, the possibility that she might not choose him shadowing his every thought.
"Okay… I'll take you home," he replied, the sadness and resignation evident in his voice. As they walked back to the car, he couldn't help but wonder if their love was strong enough to overcome this hurdle. Without bothering to open the door for her, he got into the car and started the engine while he waited for her to join him. The air was filled with tension and uncertainty, but he was determined to fight for their relationship.
Upon sitting in the car, Jan Di tightened her seat belt and looked out the window, gathering her thoughts. She thought about whether she would go to America and what she would leave behind—her family, friends, and the life she had always known. Her dreams and aspirations seemed to be tinged with uncertainty as she contemplated the unknown future that lay ahead, a future that held promises but also sacrifices.
"I will ask you again: will you marry me?" Jun Pyo increased the speed of the car, the engine roaring with urgency that matched the intensity of his emotions. The night was shrouded in darkness, with the only illumination coming from the headlights cutting through the dimly lit streets.
"What are you doing, Gu Jun Pyo?" She held her hand tightly as Jun Pyo drove zig-zag on the dark streets, her heart pounding in her chest, not just from the reckless driving but from the sudden turn of events. Fear crept into her being that he might cause an accident, and as if it were bad luck, a truck was driving toward them at full speed as well, its headlights glaring in the night like an ominous warning.
"Stop the car, Gu Jun Pyo!" She screamed in panic, her voice filled with a mix of fear and urgency, trying to break through the deafening sound of the wind rushing past the car. But Jun Pyo seemed determined to get an answer, his gaze fixed on the road ahead with unwavering resolve.
"Will you marry me?" he asked as he kept on increasing the speed, ignoring her pleas for him to stop, his voice a mix of desperation and determination. The tension in the car was palpable as they approached the oncoming truck, the air heavy with uncertainty and unspoken words hanging between them.
"Gu Jun Pyo, you are going to cause an accident. Please stop the car." As the truck drew closer, she could feel her heart racing with fear and uncertainty, the gravity of the situation sinking in deeper with each passing second. She knew that this reckless behavior was not the way she wanted to start a future with him, with doubts and fears clouding her mind like a dark storm on the horizon.
"Say yes, and I will stop the car," he yelled as the truck made a sharp turn that mirrored Jun Pyo's reckless driving, the world around them a chaotic blur of lights and shadows. "Will you marry me?" This time his voice was threatening, the weight of his words hanging heavily in the air between them, a stark reminder of the consequences of her decision.
The truck's blaring horn added to the chaos of the moment; its sound was like a symphony of danger and recklessness that underscored the urgency of her choice. With her heart pounding in her chest, she took a deep breath, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions and thoughts, and finally replied, "Yes, I will marry you," her voice wavering but resolute, a decision made in the heat of the moment. Her voice echoed all over the car until it dissipated into silence.
Jun Pyo's expression softened as he slowed the car down, relief washing over his features at her acceptance despite the tumultuous circumstances. He stopped the car in a secluded spot overlooking the city, the lights below twinkling like a sea of stars in the night, a backdrop to their turbulent moment. Getting out of the car, he embraced her tightly, the warmth of his touch a stark contrast to the cold uncertainty that had gripped her just moments before.
"I knew you would accept because you love me," he whispered in her ear, the words a mix of assurance and possessiveness that sent a chill down her spine. Forcefully putting the ring on her finger, he pulled her into a passionate kiss, his desperation and desire intertwined in the moment. However, she didn't respond as he expected, her mind reeling from the whirlwind of emotions that had engulfed her and her eyes filled with a mix of uncertainty and longing.
Pulling away from him, she felt a sudden urge to be alone, to process the tumultuous events that had unfolded. Her eyes had turned red from unshed tears, and her heart was heavy with the weight of her decision and the uncertainty of the future that lay ahead. She knew that despite her acceptance, the road ahead would be fraught with challenges and uncertainties, a journey into the unknown where her heart would be tested like never before.
"I want to be left alone." Her voice was barely a whisper, but the determination in her tone was unmistakable. She needed time to gather her thoughts and find the strength to face what lay ahead. She walked in the lone streets and had no idea where she was heading off to.
The rain poured down in a symphony of water, wind, and wood, creating a mesmerizing harmony against the cedar trees. Outside, the trees swayed in sync with the crackling thunder, and the windows seemed to mimic tear-stained glass portraits. Inside, Ji Hoo found comfort in his living room on a Saturday night, absorbed in a captivating book while the gentle rhythm of raindrops tapping on the roof provided the soundtrack.
As he delved deeper into the story, Ji Hoo lost track of time, completely engrossed in the larger-than-life portrayal of the story's heroine. When a soft knock broke the tranquil atmosphere, Ji Hoo was jolted back to reality, realizing that it was already quarter past eleven. Puzzled by the late hour and the stormy weather, he wondered who could be at the door. Perhaps his grandfather had locked himself out again. It wouldn't have been the first time.
Carefully marking his page by folding a corner—a habit he normally disapproved of—Ji Hoo gently set his book aside and stood up from his white upholstered chair. Stretching his back, he made his way to the door, still immersed in the fantasy world of daring warriors and enchanting princesses.
Opening the door, Ji Hoo expected to see his grandfather or even a visit from one of the F4, but he was stunned enough to lock eyes with Geum Jan Di. She stood before him, a vision of vulnerability in her drenched school uniform, her tears blending with the rain. However, it was the glint of a ring on her finger that caught his attention. Had she accepted a proposal? Why, then, was she in tears?
As his hands glided swiftly across the smooth countertop, meticulously measuring out the perfect blend of herbs for the tea, his mind wandered freely, untethered by the simplicity of the task at hand. Thoughts whirled and spun like a rewinding cassette, as he grappled with the weight of Jun Pyo's plans to propose to Jan Di. The idea of letting her go to pursue her happiness in America had hit him like a ton of bricks, yet he knew it was the right thing to do.
Jun Pyo's declaration of his intentions had hit Ji Hoo like a freight train, shattering the fragile equilibrium he had painstakingly crafted within himself. Despite the weight of sorrow that settled in his chest, Ji Hoo knew deep down that letting Jan Di go was the ultimate act of love. As he opened the door to her unexpected arrival, a mix of concern and confusion crept into his mind. Her waterlogged appearance, a stark contrast to the normalcy of their upscale neighborhood, immediately raised red flags in his alert mind. Not only was she soaked through to the bone, but the disarray of her attire spoke volumes—missing buttons, absent shoes, and the absence of an umbrella in the inclement weather all painted a troubling picture.
As he prepared the tea on the spotless steel tray, he couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. With a mix of protective instinct and a hint of possessiveness, he carried the tray into the sitting room, where Jan Di sat trembling on the couch. Wrapped in the oversized sweater and pants that Ji Hoo had lent her, she seemed fragile and small, dwarfed by the garments. A soggy towel lay at her feet, evidence of her battle to dry her drenched hair. Despite the worry etched in his expression, a small, almost involuntary smile tugged at the corners of his lips. The sight of her in Ji Hoo's clothes was endearing, almost innocent, even in the midst of her distress.
With careful consideration, Ji Hoo placed the intricately designed tray in front of Jan Di, its delicate patterns reflecting the soft glow of the room. Swiftly, he raised the elegant teapot and began to pour the steaming liquid into her awaiting cup. The wisps of steam curled gracefully upwards, drawing temporary yet serene patterns in the air before dissipating into the room, mingling with the persistent downpour outside. The tranquil atmosphere that enveloped them would have been perfect under different circumstances, yet the tension lingered, casting a shadow over the moment. As the tea flowed, Ji Hoo settled back into his chair, gesturing subtly towards the cup, silently urging Jan Di to take a sip and find solace in its warmth.
Jan Di's tentative sip mirrored Ji Hoo's calm demeanor, her focus momentarily drawn away from the storm within her as she sensed his watchful gaze shift from stern to caring. The tea's soothing properties appeared to work their magic, the gentle warmth seeping into her being while Ji Hoo took a thoughtful sip from his own cup. A comfortable silence settled between them, a shared respite forged through past moments of companionship, offering Jan Di the familiar embrace she sought from Ji Hoo. Like the comforting ritual of tea, his presence provided a sense of security amidst turmoil.
It was evident, even in her silence, that Jan Di was grappling with overwhelming emotions; her dazed state was a clear indication that Ji Hoo's intuition was not misplaced. Despite her now dry clothes, the turmoil within her was far from settled, a fact mirrored in the sorrow etched into her tear-streaked eyes. The ring on her finger stood as a testament to Jun Pyo's proposal, yet the distress evident in her demeanor confounded Ji Hoo. The tears that glistened on her cheeks were not borne of joy but of profound sadness. Ji Hoo sensed that beneath the surface, there lay a tale far more complex than what met the eye, compelling him to unravel the mystery shrouding Jan Di's anguish.
"Jan Di." Ji Hoo's voice was a gentle murmur, a subtle plea for her to unburden herself. He anticipated her silence, the weight of her pain palpable in the air between them. Without a word spoken, he witnessed the depth of her distress in the shadows that darkened her once bright eyes, the tremble of her lip, and the tension that gripped her hands tightly around the cup, revealing a narrative of sorrow that words could not express.
He didn't expect a response. And in turn, he didn't receive one. Instead, he watched, as he had for the past months, as her sunken eyes grew dark and big, her lower lip quivered, and her hands clenched tight around her cup, revealing the depth of her inner turmoil.
Ji Hoo could remember with frightening clarity the last time he had seen her so afraid. The day that Jun Pyo looked her in the eyes and couldn't remember a thing about her. The day she believed that his memory of her had been erased from existence. Those memories haunted him, a constant reminder of her vulnerability in the face of heartbreak.
Ji Hoo recalled it far too well and had agreed with himself in that moment that it was not a suitable expression for Wonder Woman Jan Di and that he would never let it appear on her face again. Undoubtedly, he had failed somewhere along the line. His determination to protect her seemed to falter in the face of the overwhelming emotions that now gripped her.
Ji Hoo sighed, accepting her silence, and was about to stand, deciding to prepare a room for his guest, when a sob escaped her trembling lips, and the china cup slipped from her grasp, shattering against the hardwood. As lukewarm tea floated across the glossy floor, Ji Hoo instinctively loped to her side, holding her shaking frame close, his heart wrenched with a mix of sorrow and frustration at the challenging situation confronting them.
Jan Di's tear-soaked face clung to his button-down shirt, and the hot tears from her cheeks seeped through to his chest. Her hands gripped his sleeves, pulling herself even closer, and her body shifted, collapsing her down into his lap. Ji Hoo's long fingers threaded through her still damp hair as his other hand held her close, a gesture of comfort amidst the emotional storm that surrounded them.
This was not what he wanted for her. He wanted Jun Pyo to hold her like this because that's what Jan Di had wanted. She wanted him to hold her, love her, and whisper promises that would always come true because Jun Pyo loved her just as much as she loved him. It had been hard, even agonizing, for him to give this up. To give up the chance to hold her like this. But this…this was wrong. Holding a broken Jan Di, listening to every strangled sob that she desperately struggled to suffocate, hurt him more than letting her go. His internal conflict intensified, torn between his own desires and the reality of the situation at hand.
He retracted back and reached into the left pocket of his stainless white jeans, pulling out a clean white handkerchief. He gently traced the tears away, but the tears continued to fall faster than they could be dabbed dry. Placing the handkerchief aside, his futile attempt forgotten, he unconsciously wrapped his arms around Jan Di once more in a protective embrace. He wanted to shield her from her surroundings, her memories, and all that was hurting her. All the while, somewhere deep down, he noted the hollow pangs of anger and growing resentment towards the pain inflicted on Jan Di.
It was anger towards Jun Pyo for doing this to Jan Di, and anger towards himself for not hearing the warning bells sooner. The weight of his emotions bore down on him, adding another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation that seemed to be spiraling out of control.
He bowed his head, lightly kissing the crown of her head. "I'm sorry, Jan Di." His lips traveled down so he could whisper across her ear. Her back heaved as she struggled for breath, and her grip on his shirt tightened desperately. "I'm sorry that your firefighter failed you. I'm sorry that I'm so late." His words carried a mix of regret and determination, a promise to be the support she desperately needed in the midst of uncertainty and pain.
"He wants to kill me…" she began trembling, the fear evident in her voice, a chilling tremor that danced along her skin like icy tendrils. "If I can't marry him, he will cause an accident and kill us both," she confessed, her words a desperate plea for understanding amidst the chaos of her swirling emotions. As her voice cracked with the weight of her confession, tears welled in her eyes, cascading down her cheeks like shimmering rivulets of sorrow. She could feel the world spinning out of control, the looming threat of his malevolence casting a dark shadow over her trembling form. Clinging to Ji Hoo, she sought solace in his unwavering presence, his steady heartbeat, and a reassuring rhythm against the tumult of her own. With each ragged breath, she relived the harrowing near-miss of his reckless driving, the memory a haunting specter that gripped her heart in vise-like tendrils of fear and despair.
"It hurts, Sunbae," she managed to choke out, her voice a fragile whisper carrying the weight of a thousand burdens. The raw agony of her confession echoed in the stillness of the room, a poignant reminder of the depths of her suffering. Gasping for air, she struggled to contain the rising panic that threatened to consume her, the tendrils of darkness coiling around her trembling frame with suffocating intensity. "It... hurts so much..." she gasped between choked sobs, her body racked with the unrelenting onslaught of her emotions. Ji Hoo's arms enveloped her in a cocoon of warmth and reassurance, a steadfast anchor in the tempest of her anguish.
In the fractured silence that followed, she bared her soul to him, laying bare the raw wounds that festered beneath the surface—a poignant plea for solace amidst the storm. "Please make it stop," she implored, the words a fragile prayer fluttering on the precipice of hope and despair. In the hushed sanctuary of Ji Hoo's embrace, she found a fleeting respite from the unyielding pain that gripped her heart in vice-like tendrils of suffering. "Sunbae... make it stop; it hurts so much," she whispered, her voice a fragile melody of anguish and longing, a beacon of light in the darkness that threatened to consume her whole.
His heart clenched at her words, feeling a surge of protectiveness toward her as the unsettling truth unraveled. 'Has Gu Jun Pyo threatened her to accept his proposal?' Ji Hoo pondered, connecting the distressing dots. It was like solving a puzzle, with each piece fitting perfectly now. From that fateful party departure to the mysterious encounter between Jan Di and Jun Pyo, and finally, Jan Di appearing at his doorstep drenched in vulnerability, it dawned on Ji Hoo that this was more than a mere proposal—it was a harrowing ultimatum.
"Shh…hush now," Ji Hoo whispered, wrapping his arms securely around Jan Di's trembling form. His soothing voice carried a whisper of reassurance as he murmured, "Everything will be okay, I promise." Jan Di's fear was palpable, her body quivering against his steady embrace and her heart pounding in a chaotic rhythm. "I won't let anything happen to you," Ji Hoo vowed, his voice unwavering, as he held her close, shielding her from the storm within and without. "Don't cry; I'll protect you, always." Jan Di's tears flowed unabated, seeking refuge in the safe haven of Ji Hoo's arms and finding comfort in his unwavering promise of safety and solace amidst the turmoil.
Jan Di woke up slowly, feeling jaded and sore, her eyelids heavy as she stirred to the faint sounds of clanging pots and pans reverberating from the kitchen. As she rubbed her stinging eyes, adjusting to the dim light filtering in through the open window, she took in the sight of the sky outside—a pale blue hue tainted with murky gray and dotted with dark clouds hovering ominously. Despite the cool breeze that gently nudged the pallid curtains, a weather typically known to dampen her spirits, Jan Di surprisingly found herself feeling more at ease in that moment than she had in a long time. Nestled under the warm cotton sheets on a soft feather mattress, she managed to momentarily forget about the tumultuous past weeks that had led her to this inexplicable place, her thoughts drifting to the comforting memory of Ji Hoo holding her close.
A faint smile graced her lips briefly, only to fade as a sudden realization struck her, causing Jan Di to frown slightly. With a sigh, she kicked off the blankets and swung her feet around as she sat up in the bed, stifling a yawn and stretching her limbs in a slightly clumsy manner due to being enveloped in clothes a few sizes too big. Rising to her feet, she closed the window to halt the bitter breeze, hinting at the possibility of another impending storm.
Rather haphazardly, she tossed the covers back onto the bed, knowing well that the maids would come later to tidy up, rendering her efforts at making the bed redundant. Yet, the bed's disorder felt unsettling considering she wasn't supposed to be there in the first place, prompting her to hurriedly attempt to at least straighten out the sheets.
Lost in her thoughts, Jan Di was roused from her reverie by the persistent sounds seeping in from beneath the door, now replaced with a gentle sizzling and the harmonious clinking of glassware. Curiosity tugged at her, compelling her to cautiously crack the door open just enough to slip through, her bare feet padding silently down the hallway towards the spacious, open kitchen layout.
The tantalizing scents of butter, frying meat, and sugar enveloped the room, drawing her gaze towards Ji Hoo, who stood at the stove flipping pancakes while humming tunelessly to an invisible audience. Jan Di tried to stifle a silent laugh as she stealthily made her way to the nearest counter, the mouthwatering aromas hinting at her neglected dinner and igniting a craving for food.
Turning around, still humming, Ji Hoo jumped in surprise at the sight of Jan Di perched on the kitchen island, lost in her thoughts as she idly watched her feet swing to and from. Recovering quickly, he chuckled at his initial shock, shaking his head in amusement.
"Good morning," he greeted her, prompting a soft response from Jan Di, momentarily caught off guard by her train of thought. "Ahhh, good morning," she finally replied, a slight nervousness edging her tone. "Sunbae, you…you didn't have to make all of this," she gestured towards the laden table that boasted porridge, bacon, sausage, and a batch of pancakes sizzling on the stove.
"It's nothing," Ji Hoo said, wiping his hands on a towel and flashing a warm smile. "It was my turn to cook breakfast anyway. Grandfather is getting ready for work; he should be out soon. You should start eating; it'll get cold," he urged Jan Di, returning to tending the stove.
Recalling the reason why she found herself sitting down to breakfast with Ji Hoo and his grandfather, a blush crept onto Jan Di's cheeks, and she awkwardly slid off the counter, making her way to the small feast laid before her. Sheepishly, she hesitated while fixing her plate with modest portions, only to be surprised by Ji Hoo silently placing a stack of pancakes on her plate alongside additional servings of food, gently chiding her hesitation.
"You can start eating," he encouraged her with another smile. "I promise I didn't poison anything."
Nodding appreciatively, she took a forkful of pancake, a grin tugging at her lips as she savored the delicious flavor. "It's delicious," she complimented Ji Hoo, glancing at the array of food he had prepared. "But aren't you going to eat too?" Jan Di noted the abundant plates of food awaiting consumption, momentarily self-conscious about being the sole diner considering she felt out of place.
"Of course, I'm going to eat. I just wanted to make sure this feast was to your specifications," Ji Hoo assured her, taking a seat across from her at the table, a subdued smile playing on his lips.
"Ah…thanks." Jan Di redirected her gaze to her plate, an internal conflict evident, unknowingly missing Ji Hoo's reaction as he observed her struggle with self-imposed silence intertwined with lingering embarrassment.
"You know, Jan Di," Ji Hoo began, a note of reassurance in his voice. "It's okay; you're here. I don't mind."
Yoon Seok-Young, clad in his pristine white lab coat and a broad blue tie, exuded an air of poise and confidence as he strolled in with a warm smile, catching Jan Di's attention. In that moment, Jan Di couldn't help but notice a remarkable resemblance between the grandfather and grandson in terms of their commanding presence and composed demeanor.
"Good morning, you two," he greeted them amiably, his eyes scanning both Jan Di and Ji Hoo before settling at the table to prepare his breakfast. "Jan Di, what a pleasant surprise to see you here," he remarked while spreading a thin layer of jam on a piece of toast, his gaze briefly glancing at the ring adorning her finger. "I see you've accepted his proposal," he added with a gentle smile, acknowledging the significant development in her life.
"Yes!" Jan Di replied nervously, the memory of Jun Pyo's intense reaction to their accident lingering in her mind, a topic she preferred to avoid. "Oh, I'm sorry for arriving late. I needed Sunbae's assistance with something," she explained apologetically, attempting to divert attention from her late-night activities. Bowing her head with sincerity, she tried to mask the remnants of the previous night's anxieties that still lurked behind her eyes, a testament to the emotional turmoil she had faced.
"Don't feel the need to leave my account. It's always a pleasure to have you here more often. Perhaps with your presence, Ji Hoo might find inspiration beyond his current routine of reading and watching old music videos," Seok-Young remarked with a light-hearted tone, nudging Ji Hoo playfully. Ji Hoo responded with a slight eye roll, evoking a chuckle from his grandfather. "Regardless, you are most welcome to stay as long as you wish. With the upcoming medical entrance exams, perhaps studying together is a good idea," he suggested, glancing between Jan Di and Ji Hoo.
"Thank you for the warm invitation. It's always appreciated," Seok-Young acknowledged with a knowing nod, savoring the last bits of his toast before rising to leave. "Apologies for departing so suddenly, Jan Di. I look forward to our next meeting. And Ji Hoo, perhaps it's time to consider engaging in activities that are more enriching than your current pursuits," he offered with a touch of humor, urging his grandson to explore new horizons beyond his comfort zone.
Turning back to Jan Di, Ji Hoo exhaled in a mix of exasperation and faint amusement. "Really, that man, he treats me like I'm still six."
"He cares about you," Jan Di offered with a gentle smile at his mock complaint. "It must be nice having someone care about you so much."
"I guess it's not too horrible," Ji Hoo conceded as he started clearing the table, a touch of vulnerability seeping through his typically composed demeanor. Internally, he felt a twinge of relief seeing Jan Di slowly opening up, despite the shadows of pain still lurking in her eyes, hinting at her ongoing struggle to overcome past traumas.
As Jan Di joined him at the sink, placing her own dishes beside his, Ji Hoo noted the subtle transformation in her demeanor since the previous night. Under the remnants of sadness and unwarranted self-consciousness, he saw a flicker of resilience and a glimmer of hope.
"Jan Di, what are you doing today?" Ji Hoo inquired, hoping to offer her a distraction and a glimmer of normalcy amidst the lingering turmoil.
"Not much, really," Jan Di replied, contemplating the prospect of reaching out to GaEul, though wary of inadvertently provoking Jun Pyo's ire. "I don't want to trouble Ga Eul; she might end up killing Gu Jun Pyo."
Nodding nonchalantly, Ji Hoo seized the opportunity to steer the conversation toward his own procrastinated errands, his casual invitation tinged with a hint of anticipation. "I've been meaning to run a few errands. Would you like to come along? And go out to the library to buy some books that will come in handy during our study reviews."
Receiving a smile in response, Ji Hoo felt a surge of relief at the prospect of providing Jan Di with a much-needed distraction. "I would love to, Sunbae. But are you sure I won't be bothering you? And my parents might be wondering where I am."
"I already informed them that you stayed over," he replied, continuing to take her hand and raise it to his lips. "I invited you," Ji Hoo reassured her, his smile genuine. "And you could never be a bother."
Unwilling to admit it, Jan Di welcomed the chance to spend time outside, grateful for the semblance of normalcy amidst the turmoil that had marked her life recently. A brief respite from the shadows of the past and the uncertain future lay ahead, wrapped in the promise of a simple outing with a friend.
Walking out of the house on that breezy evening, Ji Hoo cautiously made his way towards his car, the moon casting a gentle glow over the scene. However, his movements were abruptly halted as Jan Di, with a look of desperate urgency, intercepted him before he could reach the onyx vehicle. The haunting memories of Jun Pyo's malicious intent to orchestrate a perilous accident flooded Jan Di's mind, causing her to tremble in fear. Ji Hoo, sensing her distress without words, enveloped her in a protective embrace, his steady voice offering solace in the chaos. "Otter... I am your fireman," he murmured, his words a soothing balm to her shattered nerves. Tenderly cupping her face in his hands, he planted a gentle kiss on her forehead, gazing warmly into her tear-filled eyes. "If the thought of the car troubles you, we can consider other options. Perhaps a leisurely bike ride or a peaceful stroll—whichever puts your mind at ease."
Staring back at him, her tear-streaked face a testament to the emotions swirling within her, Jan Di spoke softly, her voice thick with gratitude, "Thank you for always being my protector. How do you manage to understand me so deeply? How do you navigate the labyrinth of my thoughts and fears with such unwavering certainty?"
…
A soft smile graced Ji Hoo's lips as he replied, his gaze unwavering, "Because I am attuned to you in ways words cannot express. Your joy, your anguish, your deepest apprehensions—they resonate within me, a mirror of your soul."
A few seconds of silence weren't enough to process the depth of his words. They were heavy to take in, with vigorous energy, yet at the same time filled with a comforting reassurance that she had never experienced before. It was as if he held the key to unlocking the mysteries of her own mind, guiding her through the labyrinth with a steady hand and an unwavering presence.
"Sunbae…" she tore her gaze away from him suddenly reading the emotions in his eyes that she wasn't prepared to take in. "I wish sometimes I could never look at you."
Feeling a rush of emotions and new-found vulnerability, she found herself grappling with the overwhelming sensations that Ji Hoo's simple presence evoked within her. The way his eyes bore into hers felt like a magnetic force, drawing out emotions she had concealed deep within her heart. The thought of losing control over her own emotions in his presence was both unsettling and strangely exhilarating, leaving her torn between the comfort of familiarity and the fear of the unknown.
Taking her chin in his hand, he gently lifted her face to meet his gaze, a soft smile playing on his lips. A subtle warmth radiated from his touch, enveloping her in a sense of security that she couldn't quite comprehend. "Why?" he asked, his voice gentle and soothing.
Fighting against the whirlwind of conflicting emotions within her, she struggled to put into words the turbulent thoughts that Ji Hoo's proximity stirred within her. The notion of peeling back the layers of her own facade in his presence felt both liberating and terrifying as if she were on the precipice of a momentous revelation that could change the course of her life.
"Every time I let myself be vulnerable and open up to you, I experience a sensation of free-fall, as if descending into an abyss beyond my management," she whispered, her heart reverberating within her chest like an unsteady drumbeat. "It's akin to confronting my reflection and discovering a stranger staring back at me, a divergence from the image I once believed in. Your eyes, so clear they mirror tranquil waters, beam with a brilliance that rivals the sun's radiant glow, illuminating my path with an undeniable warmth and clarity that guides me through my darkest doubts and fears, offering a beacon of light in the tumultuous sea of uncertainties that envelops my world."
In a tender moment, he looked at her with understanding in his eyes as he hung on to her every word. There was a deep connection between them that seemed to go beyond words, tapping into unspoken truths that resonated within their souls. As time passed, the bond between them only grew stronger, weaving a complex tapestry of emotions that neither could easily untangle.
He leaned in closer, his breath warming against her skin. His thumb traced a gentle line along her jaw, his eyes searching hers with a depth that made her breath catch. "Maybe that's not such a bad thing," he said softly, his words wrapping around her like a warm embrace. "Because your eyes speak volumes without saying a word, and that's why every time you look at me, stop avoiding my eyes, and you will find what you are looking for because I always feel you."
This was the first chapter. I hope you like it.