29 - In The Shadows

“Are you done yet?” Jiyong embraced Dara from behind. She was working on the next episode of the drama she was writing and Jiyong was with her in her apartment. It was a Sunday afternoon and Jiyong had nothing to do. Kiko had a scheduled shooting while Seunghyun was editing the movie.

Dara brows were furrowed in deep concentration as her fingers kept on typing on her laptop. It was as if she didn’t hear him at all. Jiyong gave a small smile as he looked at Dara’s face, her lips pursed as she kept on with the keyboard.  He planted a kiss on her neck which finally caught her attention.

“Did you say something?” Dara asked. Jiyong grinned at her and pressed her nose with his finger.

“Are you done yet?” He asked, tightening his embrace on her. Dara shook her head and she was about to go back and type but Jiyong lifted her from where she was sitting on the ground and placed her on his lap.

“I’m hungry.” He murmured and rested his chin on her shoulder.

“There’s several take out menus by the counter.” She nodded towards the counter.

“I don’t want take outs.” Jiyong pouted, never letting go of her. Dara raised her brow at him.

“What do you want then?” She asked knowing that he was out to bother her.  

“I want ramen.” He answered in an instant.

“Go make some.” She answered, trying her best to ignore his puppy eyes and pursed lips. But Dara couldn’t help but smile at his pleading expression.

“You’re just out here to make trouble. You don’t want me to meet my deadline do you?” Dara laughed, knowing she was already defeated. She got off from his lap and headed for the kitchen leaving a triumphant looking Jiyong.

Dara stretched her arms and back as she stood in front of the stove. She prepared the ramen while Jiyong remained on the living room.

“Don’t read it!” Dara called out knowing Jiyong was already reading what she wrote.

“Too late.” Jiyong called back. “Why would you do that to Do Min Joon? This is unfair!” Jiyong ranted as he kept on reading what she wrote. Dara chuckled as she stirred the noodles. Jiyong is the first one to read what she wrote for the drama she was working on. Before the producers, he makes it a point to know what happens next. He’s also the first one to complain if the main characters were being given a hard time.

“Quit ranting and come here. The ramen is ready.” Dara called from the kitchen. She placed the hot bowl of ramen on the table and waited for Jiyong. She shook her head upon seeing him with annoyed expression. “You’re that affected?” Dara raised her brow and watched Jiyong sit down and grab the chopsticks.

“Of course. I’m your number one fan. I’m affected with whatever story you write.” Jiyong answered honestly. Dara gave him a thankful smile.

She is in a great place right now. Their movie is almost finished, her drama is doing well, her friendship with Kiko and Seunghyun is doing great and now she has Jiyong to share all of her moments with. She doesn’t get bothered with Jiyong’s celebrity status because she has her own achievements under her belt. She hasn’t really engaged in any social media accounts but her presence is very well felt because Jiyong couldn’t help himself but post random pictures of her on his account. Most of his fans, welcomed Dara warmly.

“Dara…do you ever think about restarting your Red Lotus blog again?” Jiyong asked in between gobbling the ramen.

“Not really. I’m not the right person to write about new places and new music anymore.” She answered.

“It’s just that, it’s still visited by many people. I’ve heard that uni students still talk about your blog. I just think it’s a waste if it doesn’t go on.” He said honestly. Dara thought for a moment.
 

“I’m just not the right person to continue the blog anymore.” Dara answered truthfully. “Anyways, have you scheduled your flight to Busan already? I think I haven’t yet. Kiko has been telling me that I really should get an agent already.” She grabbed her phone to check for available flights. Dara, Seung Hyun, Kiko and Woobin were invited to the Busan Film Festival so they could show a preview of their film. Jiyong invited himself as Dara’s date.

“You don’t have to. I asked my manager to book for us already.” Jiyong answered with a happy smile. “But I do think Kiko is right. You should get an agent and you should also hire a personal assistant to help you out. Your plate is getting full with all the schedules and meetings.”

“I’ll have to scout some agencies then.” Dara nodded.

“I’ll help you out. Just go and finish that episode first and then we’ll go out.” Jiyong stood up and took the bowl of ramen to the sink and started washing it. “Better make that fast because I’m taking you out on a date tonight.” He looked over his shoulder and threw her a mischievous wink. Dara laughed but she couldn’t hide the blush on her cheeks. They’ve been dating for months and yet she still couldn’t help but blush about the littlest things he does for her…like taking her out on surprise dates. One he took her to the Han River in the middle of the night and they drank instant coffee from a convenience store. It was a cheap date but it’s one of their best ones.

“Where are you taking me?” Dara asked excitedly, tugging his shirt from behind.

“I’m not telling.” He smirked. Dara inserted her head underneath Jiyong’s armpit and looked up at him, batting her lashes.

“Dara stop it. I’m not telling!!! Stop it…” Jiyong was laughing uncontrollably, trying to avoid her. He wound his arms around her, his hands covered with foam bubbles.

“Come on…where are you taking me?” Dara pleaded, Jiyong pulled her closer and rubbed the tips of their noses together.

“You’re