== At the Business Function ==

Bom's POV

"Ahh... It's been so long since i've been to one of these..." I murmured as I tightened my grip on the hook of Seunghyun's arm as we walked down the red carpet leading towards the Business Function.

"Oh really? Didn't you go to any in the states?" Seunghyun asked as he briefly glanced down at me before turning to pose slightly for the cameras that were flashing at us.

"No, not really. I let Teddy Oppa do all the work, this isn't really my thing," I replied as I gave the cameras a smile and small wave.

"As you can see behind me, Choi Seunghyun, heir to Choi Shopping Malls has arrived at the 2013 Annual East Asian Business Function and he's not alone! This is the first time that we have seen Mr Choi with company in the last 2 years since he has begun taking an active role in the business world. We are unclear of the relationship between Mr Choi and his lady friend--"

"So.. I'm the first girl you've taken to one of these huh?" I asked as I tuned the news reporter out, biting my lip in an attempt to hide the bright smile that was trying to break out.

"Nope."

I paused in my stride and the smile immediately left my face, my eyebrows creased into a frown as I looked up at him in shock. What?! I wasn't his first?! Then why did that reporter say--

"I've taken Omma once too," he finished as he gave me a cheeky smile.

"Aish! You little.." I trailed off as I pinched his arm for teasing me, causing him to errupt in laughter, as we finally entered the hall which was almost full with important people. I couldn't help but smile as I watched him laugh freely, like back in the old days. Things were finally starting to look up.

========

Third Person's POV

"Omo! Who is that with Mr Lee? Is that his girlfriend?"

"I don't think so, she's not exactly his type."

"I heard it was his sister!"

"Sister? I didn't even know the Lee's had another child!"

CL rolled her eyes as she tuned out the nosy reporters, already irritated that she had to attend the damn thing, but now she had to listen to them talk about her as if she wasn't right in front of them.

"Yah, stop rolling your eyes you brat and smile for the cameras!" Minho chastisted his younger sister as he halted in his step, causing CL to stop with him as he smiled brightly for the cameras, whilst CL kept an impassive face, not bothering to make an effort.

"Aish, you wait till I tell Omma and Appa!" he whined when he noticed CL's bored look, before dragging her towards the entrance of the function, away from the cameras.

"You're such a grass! Besides it's not like they asked me to come anyway, you were the one that forced me to come so now you must suffer the consequences!" CL replied before sticking her tongue out childishly at Minho who just rolled his eyes.

"Whatever! Can you just please try to enjoy yourself huh? For me? I feel like we haven't had any quality brother, sister time in a while, i miss my baby sister," Minho asked sadly.

CL's eyes softened as she looked up at her big brother, her protector. The brother that was always there for her, and would always be there for her.

"Arasso Oppa, i'm sorry," she replied before finally pulling on a smile, "Now stop pouting like that, you're a fully grown man for gods sake!"

========

Youngbae's POV

"Minzy-ah, are you sure you don't want me to go pick you up?" I asked into my phone as I stood at the door of the function hall, away from the cameras.

"I'm sure! Don't worry Oppa, i'm just about to set off!" "Can we get a popcorn combo to--"

I frowned as I heard Daesung's voice in the background, "Are you sure? You're not ditching me are you?! Pass the phone to Daesung!"

"What?! OPPA! No! I wouldn't leave you on your own! How could you accuse me of this?!" Minzy shouted, causing me to wince and pull my phone away from my ear, "I'll be there very soon!"

"You better--" I pulled the phone away from my ear and gaped at my phone, "Aish, this girl! Hanging up on me!"

*beep beep*

My phone lit up signalling a text message had arrived, I quickly opened it after noting it was from Minzy.

From: Minkgkki

Sent at: 19:32PM (7:32PM)

Sorry for hanging up Oppa! My mistake! I'll be there in like.. 2 minutes!

~ Minzy

"What is this girl playing at? She just said she was setting off a moment ago and now she's only 2 minutes away?! She has some serious problems with timing.." I mumbled to myself with a frown as I stared at the text

*tap tap*

Huh? She couldn't have arrived already right?! What did she have, a teleporting machine?!

"Minzy-- Yuri?" I heard myself ask in confusion as I stared at Jiyong's cousin. Damn. They really do have good genes...

"A-annyeong Youngbae-ssi.." Yuri stuttered shyly as she diverted her eyes away from mine.

"Annyeong.. what are you doing here? Are you here for the function too?" Correct me if i'm wrong, but i don't recall Yuri's family being within the elite business world, aside from the fact that she was related to Jiyong.

"Oh..?" she looked at me in confusion, "N-neh.. actually.. erm.." she continued to stutter as she traced her hair behind her ear.

"Do you know where Minzy is?" I cut her off as I moved slightly to the right to see if she had arrived yet.

"About that.. erm..." she trailed off again as she rubbed her arm awkwardly, "Minzy called me today and said that she was too busy to accompany you and asked if I could go in.. her.. place.."

"Huh? But she just called me a moment ago and--" I rolled my eyes as everything clicked in place. This little maknae.. she's going to get it from me! I thought something was fishy! I thought I heard Daesung ordering popcorn before.. psssh...

"Mianhe Youngbae-ssi, I thought you knew..." she apologised as she bowed her head, "I'll just get going.."

"Hey! Where do you think you're going?" I asked good naturedly as I grabbed her arm, stopping her from leaving.

"N-neh?"

"You're already here, and dressed the part, how about being my date for the night hmm?" I asked as I gave her my famous eye smile.

"A-are you sure? I mean I don't really know what to do.. i've never been to one of these before.." she asked shyly.

"It's okay, there isn't much to it, besides i'll be here. So how about it? Will this beautiful lady be my date for the night?" I asked again as I held my hand out for her. I smiled as I watched a blush colour her cheeks before she shyly nodded and placed her delicate hands in my hands.

========

Dara's POV

"Miss Park! Who is your date?"

"Miss Park, over here!"

I tried to speed up my pace, the entrance to the function hall seemed so far away..

"Babe, slow down," Jiyong said calmly, "Come on, they want some photos, smile hmm?"

"B-but.." I looked at him worriedly and began to edge towards the door again.

"I already told you, i'm fine," he reassured as he my cheek tenderly, the flashes from the camera's increasing ten fold, "Besides, this would be a good time to make it known that this beautiful goddess beside me is mine."

I blushed at his words and his intense eyes, his lips curved into a y smirk before he turned me to face the cameras. I stole a glance at him and smiled. Although he was no longer part of the business world per se, he looked every part the dominating business man, I wouldn't be surprised if he started getting offers to be the cover of GQ Magazine.

"Come on, lets go in, I don't like the way these cameramen are leering at you." I rolled my eyes at his comment but nevertheless let him guide me into the safety of the function hall that was bustling with the elite.

"Oh, there's Omma and Appa!" I pointed towards the bar at the far corner where my parents were talking to some business people, "Let's go!"

I increased my pace towards them when I began to notice all the looks Jiyong was receiving - mainly from girls. Damn. Why did he have to look so damn y all the time?! Aish...

"Omma! Appa!" I greeted them before bowing politely to the people they were talking to.

"Ah, this must be your daughter Sandara? She's absolutely beautiful, deiniftely gets her looks from you Eun Hee!" the man exclaimed as he looked me up and down before turning to smile brightly at Omma. I cringed slightly at the way he looked at me, edging behind Jiyong slightly.

"Dara, this is Mr and Mrs Jang," Appa introduced as he gestured towards the greasy looking man and his wife, "I'm sure you're aware of them?"

Who doesn't? They were the owners of the largest Telecommunications company. "Neh, nice to meet you," I gave them a 90 degree bow.

"So polite," Mrs Jang commented with what I assume was supposed to be a sweet smile, "Wooyoungie! Come over here! I want you to meet someone!"

"Neh Omma?" A smart good-looking guy appeared beside Mrs Jang obediently.

"Sandara, this is my son Wooyoung. Wooyoung, this is the Parks eldest daughter Sandara, isn't she gorgeous?" Mrs Jang pushed him towards me slightly.

We bowed to each other and I offered him a small smile when I felt someone grab my arm.

"Why don't you and Wooyoung get to know each other a bit more hmm?" I looked down in surprise to see Mr Jang had grabbed my arm and was tugging me aggresively towards his son.

"I would appreciate it if you get your hands off my girlfriend." Jiyong's steely voice cut in, as he put his hand ontop of Mr Jangs and easily pried it off my arm before pulling me back to his side, wrapping his arm protectively around my waist.

"Excuse me? And who are you?" Mr Jang asked as he looked Jiyong up and down in irritation.

"I'm her boyfriend, and I don't appreciate it when people lay their filthy hands on her," he replied his face showed calm, but I could tell he was beginning to boil underneath. Aigoo... my Jiyongie is so protective.

"Excuse me?! Do you know who I am?!" Mr Jang exclaimed, threateningly, his face turning red from anger.

"I could care less. Just don't touch her again," came Jiyong's simple reply as he leveled his gaze with him.

"This.. this.. who the hell do you think you are?!" He exploded before turning to Omma and Appa who were watching in amusement, seemingly not bothered that Jiyong was belittling one of the biggest elite businessmen in the world - something any business person should know not to do. "Who is this.. this rude bastard?!"

I watched as the amused smiles were immediately wiped off my parents face. Uh Oh...

"Are you deaf Jang? Didn't you hear the first time?" Appa snapped as he sent a glare to the man who widened his eyes in shock.

"What did you just say to me Park?!"

"My husband just asked if you were deaf?" Omma piped in helpfully with a sweet smile, but her eyes were hard.

"Do you know who you're talking too?!" Mrs Jang replied, clearly flabbergasted by the whole situation. Jeez, how many times did they have to bring up their status?

"Yes, i'm perfectly aware. I don't think you're aware of who exactly you're talking to," Appa quipped back, "Call my son-in-law a bastard again and I will punch you. Touch my daughter again and I will cripple you. So much as look at my wife again I will make sure you won't see the light of day again."

With that Appa cooly turned his back on the shocked Jangs. Jiyong smirked in satisfaction before guiding me away, following my parents.

"Aigoo Jagiya! I think you went overboard!" Omma giggled as she clung to Appa's arm giggling to herself like a highschool girl in love.

"Pssh! That sleazeball had it coming to him! Disrespecting my family like that! 'Do you know who I am?' Pfft, does it look like I give a who you are?!" Appa grumbled.

"Appa!" I chastised him. It was rare for Appa to swear, only when he was really realy angry did he swear.. and it was rare for him to be this angry.

"What?!" He replied innocently.

"I'm sorry for the way I acted back there," Jiyong suddnely said apologetically, "I know I shouldn't have made a scene and you have a reputation to hold up but--"

"Jiyong, there's not need for you to apologise. I would've done the same thing if you hadn't beat me to it son. Reputation? Who cares, Family comes before anything." Appa smiled at Jiyong and patted him on the shoulder before a frown came onto his face again, "Besides! He had it coming to him! Did you see that bastard?! 'definitely gets her looks from Eun Hee' Hitting on my wife like that! Pssh, what a douche, right in front of his own wife too!"

"Oh jagiya!" Omma giggled.

"What about me huh?! What do I look like? A turnip!? Dara obviously got her superior looks from me!" He began to whine like a child as he pouted.

Omma giggled more before she leaned in to kiss Appa.

"Ewwwww!" I complained as I turned away from their public display of affetion, face planting into Jiyong's chest. Bleh! I mean I always admired how much my parents loved each other but seriously?! In front of me?!

Jiyong chuckled as he kissed the top of my head, "I think it's cute."

I pulled away and scrunched my nose as I looked up at him, "Yeah it's cute, but it's so weird seeing them like that in front of me!"

"Well, I would like to hope that in the future when we have our own family we will be like your parents," Jiyong said with a soft smile on his face, his eyes full of warmth as he traced my hair behind my ear.

I smiled up at him, a slight blush colouring my cheeks at his words. He was already thinking that far into the future? Kyaaa! Jiyong and I with our own little family?! Mini Jiyong's and Dara running around and causing havoc?! I giggled happily at the image before leaning up and planting a kiss on his soft lips.

"Oh jeez, what's with all this PDA?"

I pulled away to see Hyun Suk rolling his eyes as he eyed Omma and Appe then Jiyong and I.

"You're just jealous brother," Appa replied as he stuck his tongue out childishly at Hyun Suk.

"Yeah yeah whatever," Hyun Suk waved him off before turning to Jiyong and I, a worried look on his face.

"Is everything okay Samchon?" I asked, my eyebrows furrowed.

"Mmm... You know you young kids shouldn't stay too long at these boring events. Just full of boring old people," he chuckled as he glanced at Appa briefly, the two of them exchanging a look.

"Yes, don't feel obligated to stay you two. In fact you could even leave now if you wanted to," Appa suggested lightly but it didn't excape my notice how his eyes flickered to Jiyong worriedly. Both Appa and Samchon now seemed to be somewhat agitated as they surveyed the room.

"Appa.. Samchon.." I trailed off as I eyed them warily. Something was up... Something was definitely up and I don't like where my mind is going..

"Aigoo, I can see why Dara is constantly worried now," Jiyong joked as he eyed Appa and Samchon, "It's definitely in the genes!"

"Come on Dara, lets go find the others, they must be here somewhere," Jiyong suggested as he bowed at Omma, Appa and Samchon before dragging me away.

"Jiyong.. maybe Samchon was hinting at something.. maybe we should just g--"

Jiyong sighed exasperatedly as he rolled his eyes, "I'm a big boy Dara, I can take care of myself, now stop worrying! I seriously hope our children don't end up with this trait!"

========

Bom's POV

"S-seunghyun.. I don't think this is a good idea.. M-maybe we should do this another time.." I began to tug at the sleeve of his tuxedo, halting his steps towards my doom.

"Wae?" he asked as he glanced down at me, eyebrows furrowed.

"I.. erm.. I erm.. I NEED THE TOILET!" I said loudly, causing the people around us to glance at us weirdly. I cringed as I looked down, avoiding their eyes as my face burned from embarrassment, matching my hair colour.

"Babe," Seunghyun chuckled, clearly unphased by the looks we were receiving as he lifted my chin, "What is it really?"

My shoulders slumped as I looked down, avoiding his eyes as I began to fumble with my hands, "It's.. it's just.. erm.. I'm scared.." I mumbled.

"Huh? What did you say? I can't hear you?," he said as he leaned down, "Babe?"

"I-I'm scared Seunghyun," I repeated as I glanced up to meet his eyes.

His brows furrowed as he stared at me in confusion, "Scared? Of what?"

"W-what if they.. what if they don't like me?" I whispered as I glanced back down and began to wring my hands in nervousness, a habit of mine. They were Seunghyun's parents. I guess in the back of my mind I knew I would have to see them again, now that we were officialy together, but I didn't think it was going to happen so soon...

I heard Seunghyun sigh heavily, "Babe, look at me."

I slowly looked up, meeting his reassuring eyes, "Why do you have so little confidence in yourself? Why wouldn't they like you? Don't you remember? They used to absolutely adored you."

"Exactly Seunghyun.. they used to adore me.. that was then.. before I.. before.." I glanced away not being able to say it, "They probably hate me now.. for what I did to you.."

"Bom," I met his gaze again after hearing his autoritave voice, "Listen to me, and listen to me carefully. What happened in the past.. is exactly that.. the past. Stop beating yoursef up about it. I'm finally over it now.. and so should you. Stop feeling guilty okay? What matters is that we're together now, it took years, but we're finally here. Now, I want you to hold that head up high so I can show my beautiful girlfriend off to my parents arasso?"

I took a deep breath and nodded slowly as a smile graced my face, "I'm sorry. Okay, let's go."

Seunghyun smiled and leaned down to give me a brief peck on the lips before straightening up and offering his arm to me again. I smiled back, took his arm and looked forward. Despite what he said I couldn't help but still feel nervous.

Before I knew it we were stood in front of Seunghyun's parents, their backs turned away from us as they laughed happily with another couple.

"Omma, Appa," Seunghyun spoke. I gripped his arm tighter as everything went in slow motion as his parents turned around. Oh god.. what if his mum pours wine over me?! What if--

"Omo! Is that bommie?!" Seunghyun's mother exclaimed, as I eyed the glass of wine in her hand warily.

"You've grown up to be such a beautiful young woman! I just knew it! I always knew you'd grow up to be a beauty! Come here, let me have a good look at you!"

I let go of Seunghyun and timidly stepped forward in confusion. Why did she sound genuinely happy? Or is she pretending? Oh god is she getting me away from Seunghyun to slap me?! Oh my go--

I flinched slightly as her hands reached for my face, thinking she really was going to cause some damage, but to my surprise she gently cupped my cheeks and scanned my face.

"Waaaah, so beautiful!" she gushed as her eyes formed into crescents from her wide smile.

"A-annyeonghaseyo Samchon, Imo... long time no see.." I stuttered slightly as I pulled away from his mothers touch. I briefly met their gazes before immediately looking down. Damn. Sorry Seunghyun.. I can't hold my head high like you asked...

"Imo?! Since when did you call me Imo?! What happened to Omoni? Yah Seunghyun! What did you say to her huh?! You little rascal!" I blinked in surprised, immediately raising my head to see his mother pouting and looking at Seunghyun in annoyance.

"Omma! I didn't say anything!" Seunghyun said defensively.

"N-neh?" I said in confusion. What is this? Why weren't they shouting at me? Berating me for what I did to their son?

"Mr and Mrs Lim! I want you to meet my future daughter-in-law!" My eyes widened as I snapped my head to the familiar voice of Seunghyun's father. W-what did he just say?

Before I knew what was happening Seunghyun's mother placed her arm around my shoulder and guided me to stand inbetween her and Seunghyun's father, as they began showing me off to the couple they were talking to, repeatedly praising me, and calling me their daughter-in-law.

I turned my head back slightly to find Seunghyun smiling at my confused face, his right hand tucked into his trouser pocket and his left hand raising his glass of red wine in a salute to me, giving me a wink. What the hell just happened?

========

Third Person's POV

"Who is this?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Lee Chaerin,"

"Omo! So pretty, I didn't know there was a second Lee!"

"Ah yes, she prefers to keep to herself, isn't that right Chae?"

"Chae?" Minho elbowed CL catching her attention.

"Huh? Yeah what?" she said rudely as she turned to her brother, as Minho widened his eyes, his jaw clenched as he subtly moved his eyes towards the business men he was talking to.

"O-oh, mianhe! Annyeonghaseyo," CL greeted as she bowed, only becoming aware of her surroundings.

"My apologies she's a little out of it today, it was nice talking to you," Minho apologised and then bowed respectively, pushing CL to bow too before dragging her away,

"Yah! Come on! You said you were going to try!" Minho grumbled as he glared down at his siter. Not that she was paying much attention as he once again watched her for the nth time roam her eyes around the room, looking for someone.

He sighed as he continued to watch his younger sister get on her tip toes and look above people's head, looking for someone he wished she wouldn't look for. He only wanted to protect her.. why was she making it so difficult for him to do so? He watched as CL's eyes finally stilled, fixing on something or rather someone, as she took a step forward, before she paused and flicked her eyes towards her brother.

"O-Oppa I erm--"

"It's okay Chaerin, if you really want to go to him then just go. You're not paying much attention anyway," Minho said in resignation.

CL looked down and bit her lip guiltily, knowing she hadn't tried her best for her brother, "I'm really sorry Oppa I just--"

"It's okay," Minho put his hand out stopping her from talking, "Just do what you have to do.. just know that.. Oppa's always here for you okay?"

A smile lit her face before she lunged at Minho giving him a big hug, "Thank you Oppa. You're the best brother in the world."

Before Minho could even retort CL let go and began wading through the throngs of business people, her eyes set on one man.

"Oppa really hopes you won't be hurt again Chaerin..."

CL's POV

I zigzagged through the people, occassionaly bumping into people, only pausing to briefly apologise before continuing forward. I had to apologise to Seungri, if it was the last thing I did. A couple weeks back and I wouldn't have cared less but now... now I couldn't deny how I felt anymore. I had been denying these feelings for far too long.

It felt like forever before I finally reached him. I stood slightly away from him, taking in his side profile as he conversed with a couple. If his facial expression was anything to go by, i don't think he was very fond of whoever they were. I frowned when I finally noticed the crutches he was using, a sigh escaping my lips. I can't believe he actually came when he's still injured..

I began to make my way towards him but paused in my stride when I saw a beautiful girl gracefully make her way towards Seungri and the couple. Said girl immediately made her way beside Seungri before leaning to give him a kiss on either side of his cheeks, whilst he happily smiled at her. I felt the grip on my clutch tighten, my heart clenching at the sight before me. Who was she? Was she his girlfriend? I wouldn't be surprised if she was.. she was beautiful whilst I was...

"Chaerin?"

I flickered my eyes up, his voice breaking through my thoughts, I tried to hide the hurt in my eyes as I met his gaze.

"What are you doing here? Where's Hyung?" He asked as he began to hobble over to me, I quickly made my way towards him.

"Don't move, you're still not strong enough," I said, worry laced in my voice as I placed my hand on him arm, stopping him from progessing further.

"A-arasso.. where's Hyung?" He repeated as he scanned the room for Minho.

"Oh.. he just went to get some drinks," I replied lamely as I began to fumble with my clutch. Come on CL, just it up. Apologise and go.

"Listen Seungri, about earlier--"

"Seungri? Who is this?" A harsh voice cut my words off. I furrowed my brows in irritation and turned to the source of the voice ready to give them a piece of my mind for interrupting me, but the words immediately left my mouth as I realised who it was. It had come from the couple who Seungri were talking to, who turned out to be.. his parents.

"What do you mean? Don't you recognise her?" Seungri turned to his parents, irritation now marring his face.

"No? Are we supposed to?" His mothers harsh voice replied as she eyed me up and down. I flinched slightly at her probing eyes and harsh tone.

"She's Lee Chaerin, daughter of the owners of Lee Law Firm. Bestfriends with Dara Park? She used to come over and play with me and the rest of the gang?" Seungri quipped back, trying to ring a bell in their minds, to no avail as they stared at him blankly.

"Oh yes, she was one of those good for nothing kids you always played with," his father replied.

I clenched my jaw and bit my tongue in order to hold back the words that were itching to come out of my mouth. Say whatever you want about me, but say a single thing about my friends... If only he weren't Seungri's appa.

"Appa!" Seungri exclaimed as he glared up at his father.

"Seungri! Don't raise your voice at your father like that!" His mother scolded, as his father glared down at him.

Mr Lee straightened his suit and cleared his throat, "Come on, we shouldn't be lingering here, we should be conversing with other people on our level," he said as he pointendly gave me a look, causing me to immediately looked down my jaw clenching, my hands bawling up into fists by my sides.

I watched as Mr and Mrs Lee started to walk off, not sparing me another glance.

"Chaerin, i'm so sorry, don't listen to them they--"

"Seungri! Stop wasting your time, lets go," His mother cut him off as she stared him down.

"But.."

"Seungri!"

Seungri turned and gave me another apologetic look, his eyes showing reluctance before he hobbled off after his parents.

I let the breath out that I was holding, as I closed my eyes to collect myself together. This wasn't the first time I had been belittled, but it never got any easier when it happened. I sighed and turned to leave, 'I guess i'll have to apologise to him another time..'

"Lee Chaerin... I was wondering why the name was so familiar, now it finally clicks."

I paused and turned back around to see the girl who had kissed Seungri on the cheeks eyeing me up and down in what I can only describe as a y manor.

"Excuse me? Do I know you?" I asked eyeing her up and down, not letting myself be intimidated by her, despite how the scared self-conscious girl within me wanted to run away from her, from her who I paled in comparison to.

"Tch!" She scoffed as she flicked her hair behind her shoulder, "Don't pretend like you don't know, you'd be stupid not to remember me."

"Sorry, but I guess you're not a very memorable.. thing..." I replied with a fake smile, my voice not apologetic at all.

"Thing?! Me?! A thing? Puh-lease. That's only the best way to describe you sweetheart," she mocked as she stepped closer to me, "I mean.. have you looked at yourself recently?"

"I would have if your y face hadn't broken all the mirrors in the world," I replied sweetly.

"Once again, that's you honey, not me," came her pathetic comeback.

"Who the do you think you are you ? What's your problem?!" I growled as I stepped closer to her, squaring up to her. Who the hell was this ?!

"My problem? My problem is you. It always has been and always will be." She replied as her gaze hardened further and she stepped even closer to me, causing us to be practically toe to toe.

"I don't even know who the you are, so how about you back the off before I pound your y face in?" I threatened as I leaned in. No way in hell is this going to intimidate me.

Her head tilted back as she laughed exaggeratedly before straightening up to glare at me again, "You really don't remember? I'm Goo Hara, Seungri's ex-girlfriend."

~ Flashback to 9 years go ~

"Yah Chae! Took you long enough to get here! We've been waiting for you! Everyone is already here!" Dara scolded me as she opened the door and quickly ushered me in.

"Mianhe Ttoki, I was just really into the design I was making and I forgot the time until Minho Oppa reminded me," I apologises sheepishly as I took my shoes off.

"Aigoo.. you and your love for fashion!" Dara rolled her eyes at me, "Ppalli! I've been waiting for film night all week!"

I quickly followed her into the living room where film night was going to be held with the rest of the gang.

"Mianhe everyone!" I apologised as I entered the room, scanning the faces in the room. My eyes subconciously lingered slightly longer on him before they widened at the sight of a familiar face beside him.

"Ah! That's Goo Hara! Seungri's GIRLFRIEND!" Dara piped in as she walked past me at the door, and began to make kissy faces at Seungri as she .

I felt my heart drop at the annoucement. Girlfriend? CL! You shouldn't care about that, he's nothing to you. You don't like him anymore. Then why.. why does it hurt so much?

========

"Hey guys i'm just going to go and get a drink from the kitchen anyone want one?" I asked as I stood up and made my way towards the door

"I'll help you!" I turned around to see Seungri getting up from his seat and trying to make his way towards.

"No, i'm fine." I cut in coldly.

"Riri, sit down, i'll go help her," Hara stood up and pushed Seungri to sit down before making her way towards me with a sweet smile.

"Seriously i'm fine." I replied before making my way out, hoping she wouldn't follow me. Yeah.. that didn't happen.

I began to pour the drinks into cups in silence as Hara leaned on the kitchen counter with her arms crossed, offering no help whatsoever unlike what she had said, eyeing me.

"I don't get it."

I paused and looked at her, "I'm sorry what?"

"I don't get it."

"Get what?" I asked in confusion as I put the drink bottle down and screwed the lid on.

"Why Seungri used to play with you so much, you're nothing special."

I froze, my hand still on the bottle lid, I slowly turned to look at her again, "What?"

She sighed in exasperation and rolled her eyes before smirking at me, that sweet girl from before was long gone.

"I just want you to know. I'm Seungri's girlfriend now, so you better back off. He's mine, okay?" she said as she glared threateningly at me.

I took a step back in shock, what the hell? "I'm sorry, why are you telling this to me? I'm not even  close to Seungri."

"Don't give me that. I don't know what happened between you two, but I hope it stays that way. Seungri's much happier now that you don't follow him around like a desperate puppy like you used to." she scoffed as she eyed me up and down, causing me to flinch and cast my eyes down, "I've seen the way you used to look at him, the way you still look at him, but you need to know, you will never be upto Seungri's standards. You know, he told me what he really thinks of you. Says you're ugly, unlovable and annoying," she finished breezily as she once again pasted a small smile on her face, as if her words were merely compliments.

"I'm glad we had this little talk, thanks!" she said cheerily as she grabbed two of the drinks cups and shoulder barged past me and out the door.

I continued to stare at the ground after she had left, biting my lip as I felt the tears b. God. Why did it hurt so much? I already knew all of this.. but to have someone else say it out like that... No! Come on CL! You promised! You made a promise to yourself that you wouldn't pity yourself anymore, that you wouldn't cry anymore!

"CL-roo? Are you okay? What's taking so long? Hara has already come back--"

I took a deep breathe and quickly wiped the tears away, before shouldering past Dara. I had to get away from here.

~ End of Flashback ~

"Goo.. Hara.." I whispered as I took a shaky step away from her as the memories of her harsh words entered my mind, temporarily catching me off guard.

"I see you finally remember me," she smirked.

"Look, what's your problem? What do you want?" I finally asked, not really in the mood to get into a fight, all I wanted was to find Minho Oppa so we could go home.

"Like I said sweetie, you're my problem. You were my problem back then, and your problem now."

"Your problem? In what universe am I your problem? What exactly have I done to upset you, your highness?" I replied sarcastically.

"Your whole existence is my problem," she muttered darkly, her eyes now squinted into slits.

"Wow, someone clearly has some issues, are you jealous?" I smirked.

"You wish, why would I be jealous of a troll like you, when I am what I am?" she smirked when I flinched at her words, "Like I said, my problem is you."

I took a step back as she began to advance on me. Each step she took, made me take a step back.

"I already told you before. Stay the hell away from Seungri Oppa. When are you going to get it through your thick head that you aren't worthy of someone like Seungri?" She continued her assault, her finger coming up to tap the side of my head roughly, I couldn't even find it in me to fight back, push her away, because deep inside, I couldn't help but feel her words were true. I never would be worthy of someone like Seungri.. of anyone.

"Just take a look at yourself," she had now managed to back me up against a wall, slightly away from where Seungri and his parents were before, her hand coming up to grip my chin aggressively, her blood red nails digging painfully into my flesh, causing me to whimper as I stared into her cold eyes, "Do you really think Seungri would like someone like you? Don't you have any pride in yourself? Stop following him around like you did in the past. You look so desperate. Don't you remember what I told you? Seungri doesn't like you, and never will. He told me you're annoying, unloveable and ug--"

"What the do you think you're doing?!" A dark voice interrupted her words.

Dara's POV

"Jiyoooooong," I whined quietly as I tugged at his sleeve, as I eyed the volumtious girl he was talking to.

"Yes Babe?" he asked, smiling at the girl politely before dipping his head so he could hear me, "Babe?"

Aish... I couldn't just tell him I didn't want him to talk to girls.. that would be too unreasonable.. but I swear.. I swear this girl is hitting on him.. like all the other zillions of curvaceous model-looking daughters of wealthy businessmen, and I didn't like it one bit. I should be trying to converse to get to know everyone, but I felt like I was being Jiyong's personal bodyguard instead.

I just pouted up at him, and tightened my grip on his arm.

"Babe? What's wrong?" Jiyong reiterated.

"Nothing," I sighed.

"Aigoo, is my rabbit jealous?" Jiyong's teasing voice entered my ears, his lips brushing against my ear.

"No..." I denied.

"Hmm, are you sure about that?" he whispered ily as he nipped on my earlobe.

"Y-yes.." I stuttered as I edged away from him.

"So you wouldn't mind if I asked Sohee here for a dance?"

"WHAT?! NO WAY! Over my dead body!" I exploded, my face turning red as I gained the attention of everyone within a one mile radius.

I glared as Jiyong threw his head back in laughter, his hand covering his mouth as he laughed loudly.

"HMPH!" I harrumphed as I pulled away from him and began to stalk off. He's so annoying!

"Come on babe," Jiyong immediately caught up to me, still laughing, and tried to slide his arm around my waist but I smacked it with my clutch.

"Okay, i'm sorry," he apologised as he tried to wrap his arms around me again.

"HMPH!" I turned my head away but didn't smack his arm away.

Jiyong chuckled at my childishness, his arms wrapping around my waist in a back-hug as he began to sway us side to side, "Jwiyongie is sorry."

I rolled my eyes and bit back a smile at his aegyo.

"Come on hmm? Forgive me?" he continued as he nuzzled his face into the side of my neck, planting butterfly kisses there. Damn it.

"Promise you won't dance with anyone else but me?" I said childishly as I turned my head slightly to look at him.

"I promise," he said before sealing it with a soft kiss, "Why would I want to dance with anyone but this beautiful woman in my arms now hmm?"

I blushed at his words before turning around to face him, my hands coming up around his neck whilst his hands were securely around my waist. It turns out when I had walked off, we had ended up on the dance floor.

We began to sway softly to the music, staring into each others eyes, occasionally leaning in to give each other a sweet kiss. We were lost in our own world, happy in each others arms when--

"Hello Son."

Third Person's POV

"S-Seungri O-Oppa, I was just--"

"Get your filthy hands off of her!" Seungri barked, as he hobbled over as fast as he could, his hand coming up to grab Hara's arm, roughly peeling her hands away from CL's face, causing her to wince. CL brought her hands up to cup her face, feeling the obvious marks where Hara's fake nails had dug into her skin.

"O-Oppa, i-it's not what you think I was j-just--"

"Don't give me that bull you , I heard everything." Seungri muttered darkly his hand still gripping her arm.

"O-ow, O-Oppa i-it hurts," Hara began to whine as she tried to pry her arm away from Seungri's steely grip.

"Is what you said true?" Seungri asked, anger evident in his eyes, "Did you really tell all those lies to her? When.. when have I ever said those things to you Hara? TELL ME?! WHEN DID I EVER ING SAY THOSE THINGS ABOUT HER?!" Seungri shouted his grip on Hara tightening even further causing her to whimper in pain.

"I-I was just saying what we all thought and knew!" she blurted out, her eyes widening in surprise at her own words.

"What we all thought and knew? Are you a mindreader now? Can you tell what i'm thinking huh? You seem so sure of yourself, so what the do you think i'm thinking now huh? TELL ME!" Seungri spat in anger as he leaned down glaring at her.

"I-I don't know! Oppa! I-I'm sorry I-I didn't mean it! Please! It hurts!" Hara began to sob.

"Right now all I can think about is how much.. how much I hate you right now! Do you understand what you've done?! All these years... This.. You didn't mean it? Really? I don't think so! You're nothing but a liar! I can't believe you did this Hara! Why?! What would you possess you to say such horrid things about.. about the girl I--"

"Why?! OPPA! You're asking me why?!" Hara suddenly exclaimed, her face now showing anger, surprising Seungri, "Ever since we were young i've always loved you! I did everything to get your attention! But you never looked my way! You were always looking at her!" she gestured wildly to where CL was leaning against the wall, absorbed in her own thoughts, staring blankly at the floor, not even paying attention to the scene in front of her as she massaged her jaw.

"I don't understand! What does she have that I don't?! I've tried so hard to get your attention but nothing! I even got surgery to make myself look better for you, to impress you! But did you notice? Did you care? Even when we were dating, you never paid any attention to me! Do you know how much that hurt?! There were so many other suitors that Appa wanted me to marry, but i've never agreed to any. Do you know why? Because all I wanted was you! Even now! All I want is you, but you won't ever look at me the way you look at, at her!" Hara broke down into sobs as she leaned onto Seungri and began to pound weakly at Seungri's chest.

Seungri looked down at the broken girl before him in shock, loosening his grip on her arm, "I-I'm sorry.. I-I...." he whispered guiltily. He wasn't stupid, he knew Hara always had a thing for him, but he always thought it was a childish crush, nothing more. It didn't help that her parents and his parents were always pushing them together, even when they were kids. That's why he decided to date her when they were children, because it was what his parents told him to do.

"I'm sorry that you felt that way Hara, i'm truly sorry, but I don't think I can ever forgive you for what you've done.. for what you've said," he continued, as he finally let go of her arm, and stepped back causing her to fall onto the floor in a mess, an apologetic look on his face.

"You're sorry? You can't forgive me? Why is everything always about her?! About that, that ?! She-She's nothing compared to me!" Hara spat out as she glared up at Seungri, the tears still streaming down her face.

"You're right.. she's nothing compared to you," Seungri replied the apologetic look no logner on his face, his jaw clenched as he glared down at her, "She's so much more. She's more than you'll ever be. She's beautiful both inside and out. You... you could only wish to be on her level."

With that Seungri his heels, and turned towards CL to see her staring blankly at the floor, her hand still absentmindedly massaging her jaw. His fists clenched as he saw the indents on her skin. He slowly walked towards her, his crutch not allowing him to go any faster. Was this it? Was this why she hated him so much? Because of all those lies Hara had told her?

"Chaerin?" Seungri said gently as he stood in front of her.

CL continued to stare at the floor, unaware of her surroundings not registering that Seungri was in front of her. Seungri sighed and leaned on his left clutch before bringing his hand up to cup her cheek, it softly with his tumb, "Chaerin?"

CL blinked, the combination of his voice and touch finally bringing her out of her reverie. She looked up and met his gaze, causing Seungri to flinch at the overflowing hurt that was in her eyes.

"Chaerin, i'm so sorry, don't listen to what she said, I never said any of that, you have to believe me, I would never--"

Before Seungri could finish CL pushed him back slightly and ran, tears in her eyes as all the memories and all the feelings came back again.

~ Flashback to 10 years ago ~

CL's POV

"CL! You promised! You said you would come over so we could have a Disney marathon!" Dara whined down the phone, I could already see the pout that was on her lips.

"I know! Mianhe Ssantokki! I'll make it up to you another time hmm?" I tried to pacify her as I opened my wardrobe.

"Why can't you come over anyway?" she complained.

"I just have something to do today," I replied evasively as I pulled out the only dress that I owned.

"What's more important than your bestfriend huh?!"

"Mianhe Dara! Besides you only want me to come over because you don't want Jiyong to bother you!" I accused.

"No! I mean, tch, fine! Yes.. he only seems to come over when i'm alone! It's like he knows when to come over to annoy me! But I also want to spend time with my bestfriend!"

"Sorry Ttoki! I'll come over tomorrow huh?"

After a bit more apologising I finally hung up the phone and opened up the text I had read earlier.

From: Seungri Oppa

Sent at: 11:17AM

Chaerin-ah! Come over to my house to play today huh?

~ Seungri Oppa

I bit my lip to hide my smile as I closed the text. Today.. today would be the day I would confess to Oppa. I had liked him for a while now.. but I didn't think Oppa felt the same way. I mean as long as he was always by my side, like he was now, always playing with me, then that was all I needed. Now though... now that I was a bit older, maybe he would like me now?

I sighed heavily as I stood in front of my mirror, holding up the dress I had pulled out, holding it up against me. But.. but would Oppa like me? What if he just seems me like his sister? I mean.. I'm not pretty like the other girls at school.. and he's been hanging around with this girl called Goo Hara recently... and she's... she's really really pretty. She always wears these really pretty dresses, and her hair is always beautiful. Whilst I.. I always wear boyish clothes.. but Minho Oppa told me that as long as I was comfortable in my own skin then it didn't matter what I wore.

Seungri Oppa likes those girly girls, so for him i'll wear a dress. Maybe he'll like me more that way.

I let out another sigh as I changed myself into the only dress I owned, one that Omma had brought me ages ago but I had never worn.

I grimaced as I looked at myself in the mirror this didn't look like me at all. The lacing was making me itchy as well.

"Chaerin-ah!"

I turned around to see Minho Oppa at the door of my room.

"WAH! Why are you wearing that dress huh?" Minho Oppa asked as he leaned on the door frame, "I've not seen you in a dress since you were a baby!"

"N-no reason.. I just thought it would be a nice change?" I replied lamely before turning to grimace at my reflection again, "Oppa? Am I.. Am I pretty?" I whispered as I looked down.

"Chaerin? Why are you asking this all of a suden? Has someone said something to my dongsaeng huh?! Just tell Oppa, Oppa will beat them up!" Minho Oppa said as he walked up to me and put his hand on my shoulders looking me in the eyes.

"Ani Oppa, I just..." I trailed off as I tugged at the dress.

"Oppa thinks Chaerinnie is the most beautiful girl in the world! Don't listen to anyone else but Oppa arasso? But Oppa thinks Chaerin looks best in something she's comfortable in, she looks most beautiful then," Minho Oppa said with a small smile before leaning down to give me a kiss on the forehead before leaving me to my thoughts.

I looked at myself once more in the mirror before taking off the itchy dress and changing back into my comfortable trousers and t-shirt. This time, when I looked in the mirror I smiled. This was the real Lee Chaerin.

I quickly made my way down the stairs and grabbed the box of homemade cookies I had made the previous day, "Omma, Appa, Oppa! I'm going out to play! I'll see you later!" I called before making my way out of my house.

========

Seungri's house wasn't that far from mine, seeing as many of the richer families tended to live in the same area, so before long I was in front of his huge house.

Instead of going through the front I walked towards the secret passage that Oppa had told me about that lead me to the houses back door. The thing was, Oppa's parents didn't really like Seungri playing out with me much so if I ever went to his house I would have to enter through here so they wouldn't find out and scold him.

I knocked on the door and smiled when the Ahjumma maid opened the door and ushered me in, knowing who I was.

'Hmm.. I wonder where Oppa is?' I thought to myself as I roamed around the familiar house, 'He must be in his room' I concluded as I quietly made my way upstairs and towards his bedroom.

"Ah Hyung!"

I smiled when my sensitive hearing picked up his voice coming from his room, I put my hand on the slightly opened door ready to enter when--

"Chaerin? Yeah she is why?"

I paused when I heard him mention my name, 'huh.. I wonder who Oppa is talking to?' I thought to myself.

"Confess to me?! What?!"

I blinked as I stared at the door in disbelief, 'W-what..? N-no... H-how did they know?'

"Like her? Ewww, please! Have you seen her? Seen the way she looks? No way! I don't think so!"

My hand fell from the door as I felt my heart plummet into my stomache at his harsh words. The way I look? I looked down at myself, a plain t-shirt and combat trousers, my hair somewhat messy. Is this what he means? But Minho Oppa.. he said.. he said I was beautiful when I was myself...

"Like someone else? Pfft! I don't know what you're talking about!!

I felt my heart break even further at his words. 'H-he likes someone else?' I felt the tears begin to fall, as I tried to hold back a sob.

"Just go away! Chaerin is coming in a bit!"

I dropped the box of cookies and ran away, my hands on my face as I tried to hold back my sobs. I can't believe it. I can't believe Oppa... I thought.. but I thought we were friends at least.. was it all a lie? Was he just laughing at me behind my back?

~ End of Flashback ~

---

Author's Note:

Annyeong Yeoruben!

 

Merry Christmas!

Thankyou for all your christmas wishes! Here's my Christmas present to all my awesome readers! [or Happy Holidays to those that don't celebrate Christmas! or is that the same thing...? O__o]

I want to say a huge, ginormous, gigantic THANKYOU! KAMSAMNIDA! To all my awesome, amazing subscribers and readers! I'm so touched by all of your support for this fanfic, despite my hiatus. Seriously, it means alot! It's like the best christmas present T______T. Also, Annyeong to all the new subscribers! ^^

Sorry, not as much Daragon here, this is pretty heavy on the Ririn, and it's quite angsty too >___<. The rest of what happened to Ririn will be revealed in the next chapter. There should be much more Daragon in the next chapter though, if all goes to plan! Oh also, please don't hate Hara! I didn't know who else to use, and apparantley she's friends with Seungri for years, since school. Anyways, hope you guys enjoyed this chapter! ^^
~Water Phoenix