- "Sunbae!!!"  JanDi welcomed Jihoo into the house.  For once they didn't need to beg and plead for him to join them for a gathering, shocking everyone.

 - "Ajussi!"  InHei came running up to her favorite uncle.

 - "Annyeong hasseyo, JanDi-ah, InHei-ah."  He hugged JanDi and picked up InHei to kiss her cheek.  "InHei-ah has been a good girl?"

 - "Deh, Ajussi!"

 - "Ajumma Ilana said to give you a hug," he smiled at the little girl.

 - "Jihoo Ajussi, when can she visit again?"

 - "Mollah, maybe InHei can come to New York and visit soon."

 - "Deh!"

Soon the two other couples arrived.  "Jihoo, bro!"  WooBin playfully punched Jihoo in the shoulder.  "You're not only here but you're here early.  Someone's been a good influence on you," he teased.

 - "Jihoo-yah, how's my chingu, Ilana?  Are you being good to her?"  JaeKyung asked point-blank.

 - "He's smiling, things must be going well," YiJung said.

 - "Did you confess to her yet?"  Jihoo took JeongYul from GaEul's arms not answering her husband’s question.

 - "JeongYul are you crawling and driving Umma crazy yet?"  Jihoo's question distracted Gaeul from badgering him about his 'soul mate'.

 - "Jihoo-yah, he just began to crawl everywhere.  We need to be careful in the studio because he now wants to grab everything."

 - "Once he's old enough not to want to put everything in his mouth, we can give him his own clay to play with.  Just not yet."  YiJung laughed.

 - "Let's eat," JanDi said.  She loved their monthly gatherings but today was different.  Her Sunbae was not only here but he was smiling.

 - "Jihoo-yah, I'm going to drag Ilana shopping with me when we arrive in New York," JaeKyung announced.

 - "Deh, Na forewarned, I mean told her I would not be returning alone."  He grinned.

 - "Yah Jihoo-yah, she's part of the F4 family now, not just your yeojachingu."  JaeKyung had the satisfaction of goading Jihoo.

 - "JaeKyung-ah, she is not nae yeojachingu."

 - "Almost is good enough."  When it came to Ilana being almost Jihoo's girlfriend it was enough but when Ilana was almost engaged to YoungSaeng, it wasn't enough.

Jihoo shook his head at his crazy but lovable friends.  For some strange reason, it didn't feel overwhelming being here this time.  "Begopayo, let's eat."  Jihoo changed the subject.  "The Janchi Gooksu (Feast Noodle soup) looks delicious.  JanDi has outdone herself again."  Mostly every month JanDi prepared a special banquet in honor of her precious Sunbae's visit.

 - "Kansamnida Sunbae."

 - "Dude," WooBin asked, "when's Ilana coming back?"

 - "Deh, Jihoo," Gaeul asked.  "When did she say she'll be back?"

 - "I’m sure, she wouldn't mind if you asked her yourself.  You don't need to pester me with the same question."

 - "Gwenchana, Na plan to her ask her just that when I see her," JaeKyung playfully threatened.

 - "You'll all see her soon enough for Club Eden's grand opening."

 - "Woah!  My man Jihoo, pretty confident she'll want to be your date?"  Jihoo remained poker-faced in the midst of WooBin's teasing.  He'd walked into that one with both eyes wide open.

 - "Na meant you'll all be in New York, I'm sure she wouldn't mind seeing all of you again.  Perhaps, we can get together in nae apartment again."

 - "That would be nice, Sunbae.  Let Ilana know we're looking forward to spending time with her again."

The next several hours went by and the F4 family ate, conversed, fought and teased each other as if they were all still at Shinwha and the sometimes pressures of adulthood didn't exist.  One thing that was a common thread in their conversation was family.  Whether it be the children or the parents, the F4 weren't committing the sins their parents made.  Family and each other came first.  The monthly gatherings were only a sample of their devotion to their ideals.  Everyone smiled at the table, looking at each other fondly.  Even Jihoo felt a strange sense of homecoming even when he did this every month.  For some reason, the feeling of isolation and not belonging was no longer there.  This was his family, his brothers and their wives and their children.

Union, NJ, Mother's Day

Ilana decided she needed company today.  Last Mother’s day she was studying hard for her medical office certification.  Kike wasn't here to distract her; Jihoo wasn't here to distract her.  She was an adult; she could take care of herself.  She stepped off the train with two bouquets of flowers.  Back home, a new rose bush got planted each year in honor of her Mama.  Ilana usually ordered a bouquet of flowers for Nana to take to the cemetery.  She knew the ritual was important for Nana but Ilana herself had never set foot on the cemetery grounds.  As for her Foster Mother, Ilana never acknowledged her as Mother.  She could only ever be a poor substitute and imposter in Ilana's life.  It wasn't fair to Hermila for Ilana to feel that way but even Hermila herself hadn't tried very hard to remove the walls she had put up.  That was why she told her Foster parents they could leave her on her 18th birthday.  There was no affection between the three of them, they traveled a lot and Ilana was left alone anyway.  It was better to be alone than in such bad company.  Ilana had to make a conscious effort to remove the cloud of melancholy from her.  Instead,she tried to picture the surprise Abigaíl and her Mom will get when she showed up at the restaurant.

The restaurant parking was packed and there was a line out the door.  Abigaíl had told her the Mariachi group was coming both Saturday and Sunday.  What with Cinco de Mayo, Mexican Mother's day and U.S. Mother's day, the crowds the restaurant drew those days paid for the extra three days of live music.

 - "Ilana!"  Sylvia, Abigail's younger sister was playing hostess and spotted Ilana as soon as she walked in the door.  "What are you doing here?"

 - "I came to surprise Abigaíl and your Mom."

 - "Mom's going to scold you for spending money on her."

 - "She can scold me all she wants," Ilana smiled.  "It's not like she can take back the flowers."

 - "They're both in the kitchen, last I checked."

 - "I'll go surprise them."

The family was very surprised to see Ilana walk in.  "Chica!  What are you doing here?"  Abigaíl hugged her friend and coworker.

 - "Feliz día de las madres, amiga (Happy Mother’s Day, friend)."  Ilana handed her one of the bouquets.  "Feliz día de las madres, Señora Paula."

 - "Ay,niña, que es esto (Oh child, what is this about)," Abigail's Mom took the other bouquet.  "Están lindas (They are lovely), pero no tuviste que (but you didn't have to)."

 - "Solo vine un ratito para saludar y ver en que los podía ayudar (I just came for a little while and to see if I could help)."  Ilana had dressed casually in jeans and a black long-sleeved shirt so she could help in the restaurant.

 - "Como crees (What are you thinking), no necesitamos ayuda (we don't need help)."

Ilana knew they probably hadn't sat to eat yet if the restaurant was this busy.  "Ya comieron (Did you eat)?  Vayan a sentarse y yo me encargo de sentar a la gente (Go and sit and I'll take care of seating the people).  También me puedo poner a limpiar mesas (I can also clean tables)."

 - "No, no, no, niña!  Ya estuvo suficiente que el Doctor viniera también a ponerse a trabajar (It was enough that the Doctor also came to work).

 - "Déjala Ma (let her, Mom)," Abigaíl spoke.  "Esta aburrida (she's bored), no está el novio (her boyfriend is not here)."

 - "No tengo novio, Señorita Abigaíl (I don't have a boyfriend, Miss Abigaíl)."

 - "Ilana has a boyfriend?"  Luciana, Abigail's older sister just walked into the kitchen.

 - "I do not have a boyfriend," Ilana's face was warming up.  "I'm going to send Sylvia back here so you guys can eat lunch."

Abigaíl caught Ilana's arm, "I'm just joking.  Eat with us first and then we'll find something for you to do."

 - "I ate before I left the house."

 - "Anda hijita (Come dear), al cabo que unas libritas más te caerían bien (anyway a few extra pounds will do you good)."

There was a lull in customers and were able to clear off a few tables to fit nine people and Isabelle's doll chair.  Both Isabel and Isabelle wore their new outfits.

 - "Isabelle and you look so pretty," Ilana complimented the child.

 - "Dr. Prince gave them to us."

Abigaíl turned crimson and her parents turned to eye her suspiciously.  They had a feeling Isabel's Dr. Prince was trying to impress their daughter.  They already knew that was what his parents were hoping for.

 - "They are very pretty; you must be a good girl for Dr. Prince."  Isabel shook her head 'yes'.

 - "She's a shameless flirt when it comes to him.  Isabel and Dr. Jaejoong can do no wrong in each other’s eyes."

 - "My sister can do no wrong in his eyes, either," Luciana whispered in Ilana's ear, making her nod her head in agreement.

 - "Hey, I heard that you two."

Ilana and Luciana just laughed.

 - "Ya, déjenla, Dios dirá qué pasará con el doctorcito (Leave her alone now, God will decide what will happen with the young Doctor)."  Señora Paula felt that soon she might have to give her daughter and Granddaughter away.  Although she was not willing, she must also look to her daughter and granddaughter’s happiness and if it's the Lord's will, she had to accept it.

Ilana was enjoying her bowl of pozole (hominy soup).  It was almost as good as her Nana's but she would never tell Señora Paula that.  The three sisters argued and teased each other followed by interjections from Luciana's husband.

Ilana laughed more than she ate until Luciana decided to rope her into the teasing.  Luciana was the oldest and most vocal of the three sisters.  "So, Ilana, who's this boyfriend my sister is talking about?"

Ilana almost choked on her soup.  "I'd like to know what kind of rumors she is spreading."

 - "Don't let her fool you, Luciana, it's the quiet ones you have to watch out for.  Tiene pegue (popular with the opposite )."

 - "Oy chica you're so going to get it.  I'm not the one that has Dr. Jaejoong eating out of the palm of her hand."

Abigaíl had been enjoying the joke until Ilana turned it back to her.

 - "The truth comes out!"  Luciana teased.

 - "So, chica who's Joseph in real life, do I know him?"  Abigaíl said, making Ilana turn bright red.

 - "He's a friend I met in New York," Ilana answered quickly.

 - "And Dr. Jihoo?  He's a friend you met in New York?"

 - "That quiet Doctor that was here last year?"  Luciana asked.  "Wait, what about your other friend, what was his name?  The one who visited you...Young?"

 - "YoungSaeng," Isabel joined the conversation.  "Tía says they’re just friends," Isabel pouted.  "But Dr. Prince says Ajussi Jihoo likes Tía Ilana."

Ilana was left speechless for a moment while her face turned red like the salsa on the table.  The rest of the erupted in laughter.  "Yah, Isabel, your Dr. Prince is micheousso."  Ilana knew that Isabel would recognize that word and she was right.  The little girl giggled uncontrollably.  "Dr. Jihoo has been a very good friend."  Ilana defended herself as soon as she was able to break through the chaos.

Luciana gave Ilana a teasing smile to which she just rolled her eyes.   The joking continued but at least it was no longer about her and Abigaíl.  They shared stories of their strict upbringing.   Getting hit on the head with the broom for coming home late or getting spanked and pulled by the hair just for losing a hair ribbon.  Ilana was amazed that they could all laugh about it now but she imagined, at the time, how frightening it would have been.  She never recalled getting disciplined by her parents at all or perhaps those were memories that were lost, not wanting to dwell on the negative.  Some days she felt it a miracle she remembered anything at all.  Many of the sweet moments with her parents tend to flash before her eyes whenever Jihoo was with her.  She didn't understand why that happened.

Ilana had zoned out and realized people were starting to get up from the table.  "What can I do to help?"  Ilana asked.  They put her to work bussing tables, thinking she would shy away from it but didn't.  She gave it her 100% thinking if only Juan Carlos could see her.  He would have a conniption fit.  Smiling at the thought she went about her work.

The time flew by and Ilana didn't have time to feel sad or lonely.  It was getting late and it was a long ride home unless she wanted to take a cab.  Which she didn't.

 - "Quédate a dormir (spend the night)," Señora Paula entreated.

 - "No puedo (I can't), Señora Paula, tengo una gatita que me espera en casa (I have a kitten waiting for me at home)"

 - "Bueno pues (Very well), vete con cuidado (go with caution).  Que Dios te bendiga, hijita (May God bless you, dear)."

 - "I'll give you a ride to the train stop," Abigaíl offered.  They walked out the door after what felt like a hundred hugs and goodbyes.  "When did you get a kitten?  You never told me."

 - "I can't believe I didn't tell you.  She was a belated birthday gift from Dr. Jihoo. Isabel would love her; you'll have to bring her to my place one day."

 - "She'd love that but why did he give you a cat?  And I know you two are on a first-name basis.  You don't need to pretend with me."  Abigaíl was digging for information.

 - "I'm not pretending!"  Ilana said defensively, making Abigaíl laugh.

 - "You should see the look on your face."

Ilana shook her head at her nosey friend.  "Que metiche (How nosey)!  It's easier to remember to not use his first name at work if I only use it when we're alone."

 - "Oh, and you two are often alone?" Abigaíl was trying to keep her laughter in.  Her friend had walked right into that one.

 - "That's not what I meant!  I meant while we are outside of work."  Abigaíl could no longer contain her laughter.  "Let me out, I'll just walk to the station.  There's no talking to you right now."

 - "I'm sorry, I'll stop.  Tell me about the cat."  Ilana remained silent, afraid of saying anything that would set Abigaíl off again.

 - "I think I mentioned in a conversation that I like cats and also he's stealthy like a cat."  Ilana smiled at how he always snuck up on her.  "He's always sneaking up on me, so I tell him he's a cat."

Abigaíl didn't tease.  She just smiled at her friend who was obviously attached to Dr. Jihoo but wouldn't admit it.  "That's very nice of him.  Well, you're here.  Call me when you walk in your door."

 - "Yes, Mother."  The two hugged and Ilana ran to the platform.

Hours later, Joy and Ilana were on the bed together, getting ready for sleep.  Ilana had been reading and her eyes were getting heavy.  Just before she drifted off she wondered what Jihoo was doing.  It was mid-Monday morning in Seoul; she decided to send a text and reached for her phone.

Ilana:  Hope your meetings are going well.  Don't be too hard on your board members.  Make sure you stop for lunch.

Ilana hit send and disrupted Joy once more to put the phone back on her nightstand.

Jihoo had been locked in a meeting for three hours with the foundation board.  It was one of those meetings where everything and anything was brought to the table.  He'd felt his phone vibrate in his pocket, a while ago, but was too deep into a discussion to stop and see what it was about.  Now everyone was dispersing and Jihoo stood outside of the conference room, remembering about his phone.  He smiled, seeing it was a message from a certain admin.

Jihoo:  Have a short break before meeting with the conservatory director.  Promise I'll eat lunch after.  Jalja, naeil jeoun haru jweseyo (tomorrow have a nice day).

Ilana was just at that point where she would be asleep any second and her phone announcing a text was almost as if in a dream.  Something told her it wasn't and she reached for the phone again.  Joy had had enough and left for the foot of the bed.  "Mianhae," she told the cat.  "It's Ajussi responding to our text," she smiled as she read and responded.

Ilana:  Ajussi do.  Joy is upset because I have to keep reaching for the phone.  I'm going to sleep now.  Tell Harabaeoji annyeong haseyo.

Jihoo:  Joy-ah, mianhamnida, I'll let Umma and you go to sleep now.  Jalja.

 - "Sunbae?"  Jan Di, who had attended the meeting in Harabeoji's place, surprised a smiling Jihoo.

He quickly composed his features before answering.  "Ready?  I'll drop JanDi off at the clinic and then come back."

 - "Sunbae was grinning like a Cheshire cat.  Someone must have sent a funny message.  But Sunbae doesn't really laugh at jokes unless they are on nampyon.  Na can take a cab to the clinic and Sunbae can continue with your conversation.

 - "Anieyo," dignity restored, "I'm done, kaja.  JunPyo will kill me if I let you take a cab."

Jan Di followed chuckling to herself.  There was only one person lately who could put a smile on her Sunbae's face.  Curiosity was going to kill her.  She wondered if the guys could tap into Jihoo's account but that would be wrong on so many levels.  Perhaps he would tell her if she asked nicely.

JanDi waited until they were in the car on the way back to the clinic.  "Sunbae was that Ilana you were messaging?"

 - "Mmm," he said simply with no expression on his face.

 - "Ilana-yah gave Sunbae back his smile.  Don't lose it again."

There was no need for Jihoo to comment or Acknowledge; he knew JanDi was not expecting one.

May 13, 2014

Jaejoong and his parents were finishing their last breakfast together for the next five and a half months at the minimum.  Jaejoong was quiet almost sulking as he usually did when his parents were leaving.  At times he wished he could turn back the time and be a small child again; back when his parents were always around.  "Jae-ah," his Mother called softly.  "Wae don't you come for a visit, bring Abigaíl and Isabel with you."

There was a reason he never went to visit.  He wouldn't want to come back.  But either way, he'd still be without his parents for six months out of the year.  "I don't know if her family would approve of her traveling halfway across the world with me but it would be nice.  Isabel would love it."  His parents smiled at each other.  They knew how much he adored the little girl.  "Just Maybe I will ask her."

 - "Well, we should start gathering our things,” Mr. Kim said.  "Are you sure you want to drive?"

 - "Deh Abeoji."

 - "Jaejoong-ah, do you think that's wise?"  His Mother asked.  She knew her son drank the day away after they left.

 - "Deh Umma, gwenchana."

 - "Arraso, if you think so."

They arrived early enough to the airport and waited.  "I trust you've decided to end your foolish behavior?"

 - "Deh Abeoji."

 - "Abigaíl and Isabel are counting on you.  Don't lose them over something foolish."

 - "Deh Abeoji, I don't want to do anything to have them disappointed in me."

 - "Choah.  One of these days Umma and I will no longer be on this earth..."

 - "Abeoji!"  Jaejoong protested.

 - "Let me finish," Mr. Kim said laying a hand on his son's shoulder.  "When we are gone, all you'll have is your anae and children.  It's time to seriously consider that.  I am not saying you haven't, only that it's time to seriously think on it."

Jaejoong's eyes were suspiciously moist as they stared at his Father.  "Deh Abeoji, I understand.  I want that too."

It was soon time, the moment he dreaded each year.  The joy of having a family around, however small, was coming to an end.  "Adul," his mother hugged him.  "Be good, you have someone to be good for now."

 - "Deh Umma."

 - "We'll see adul soon.  Saranghae, no matter what you do."

 - "Kansamnida Abeoji."  With that, they left.  Jaejoong stayed in the waiting area until the plane took off and could no longer see it from the windows.

 - "Now what?"  He wondered.  Knowing he wouldn't be able to function at work and he didn't want to drink (even if he badly wanted to), he decided to go to the gym and beat the bag around.  Perhaps then, all his frustration, anger and loneliness would leave him; he hoped.

He pounded the striking bag with every appendage until his trainer told him enough was enough, almost two hours later.  Sitting in the sauna and then taking a hot shower, his body almost felt normal again.  That's not what he wanted.  He wanted discomfort and pain that way he didn't have to think about an empty house.

Getting ready to leave the locker room area, he ran into Choi Seunghyun.  "Hey, bud, what's up?  I haven't seen you since the day Umma invited me over."  Seunghyun's company owned this particular string of exclusive health clubs.

 - "Ne jaljinasaeyo."

 - "You don't look fine?  You need to let loose have some fun.  Is your family still in town?"

 - "Anieyo, they just left this morning."

 - "Let's go have lunch.  I'm investing in a new restaurant the food and the waitresses are fine if you know what I mean."  Choi Seunghyun playfully smacked Jaejoong's arm.

 - "Mollah," Jaejoong knew it wouldn't be a good idea to spend time with Seunghyun.  Not when his head wasn't on straight.

 - "Jae bro, come on.  First-round is on me."  Every ounce of Jaejoong's being was telling him just go home but he didn't want to.  Not yet.  He didn't know what else to do?

 - "Arraso, second round is on me and then I gotta go.  I have things to take care of."  After all, what're two bottles of Soju or wine?

One hour turned to two, two to three, three turned into the evening.  Seunghyun asked for samples of the entire menu.  Seated in a private room they ate and drank and drank while Seunghyun occasionally felt up the waitress who had no problem flirting if it was going to result in a big tip at the end.  Jaejoong did what he did best and that was let the alcohol temporarily relieve his loneliness, forgetting the entire reason he drove himself in the first place.  Seunghyun was a fun and animated person to talk to, having a story for everything.  They paired several bottles of wines with their food and continued on to beer or whatever else Seunghyun chose to order.  "Yah!" Seunghyun suddenly remembered something.  "What happened to that gorgeous Latina Umma was trying to set you up with?  The one with all the curves in the right places?"

 - "Yah!  Don't talk about her that way!"  Jaejoong's voice rose in volume.

 - "Mariyah, if you don't want her I'll take her.  I'd have lots of fun with that in my bed for a while.  She looks innocent but I bet she's a fox."

 - "Yah!  I said don't talk about her that way!"  Jaejoong knocked the glass out of Seunghyun's hand and grabbed him by his suit jacket.  "Nu jogule (do you want to die)?  Shut your dirty mouth!"  Jaejoong swore he'd punch the guy if he said anything more about Abigaíl.

 - "Yah!  Micheousso?  She's just some girl.  What?  Are you going to marry her?"  Jaejoong had had enough and shoved him back into his chair.  They had been yelling right into each other’s faces.  The waitresses were at a loss for what to do.

 - "Aish!!!"  Jaejoong knocked another glass off the table.

 - "Yah!!  What's your problem?"

 - "My problem is she's not just some girl.  She's an angel.  Something you'd never know about because in your eyes women are only good for one thing."

Seonghyun laughed as if he'd just heard a great joke.  "Last I checked you had the same ideals, punk."  The two continued to glare at each other.

 - "God, ara, don't remind me.  What am I doing here?"  Jaejoong moaned and banged his head on the table a few times.  "I blew it!  I blew it!  God help me I blew it!"

 - "You're being a real buzz kill.  Go home and sleep it off.  Call me when you've stopped playing house and the real Jaejoong comes back."

Seounghyun stood and addressed the waitress.  "Just run my card on file and have someone put this idiot in his car."

Hours later, Jaejoong woke up in Abigail’s neighborhood not knowing exactly how he'd even gotten there.  He couldn't say what time he left the restaurant and how he managed to drive in his state of intoxication but he was in one piece and across from Abigail’s house.  He must have slept a while because it was just past midnight and he was reclined in his seat.  What to do now?  He wasn't going to attempt driving home in this state.  It was a miracle he didn't kill himself or anyone else on the way here.  He couldn't call Abigaíl and ask to crash on her couch.  Somewhere something was beeping and the noise vibrated from every part of his head.  He took a glance around but didn't see anything.  Groaning, he got out of the SUV.  Bending down to check under the seat, he felt the contents of his head were going to fall out.  Actually, he thought they must have spilled out already because a) he wouldn't have gone off with Seunghyun and b) he wouldn't have driven drunk to Abigail’s house.  He finally located his phone; of course, it was in that hard to reach spot in between the seats.  He was an experienced drinker, but he thought any minute now, he was going to puke.  And he did as soon as he saw three texts and two missed calls from Abigaíl.

11:00 AM:  How'd it go?  I'm open for lunch if you want to come by?

03:00 PM:  Are you okay?  I haven't heard from you.  Give me a call back.

06:00 PM:  Where are you?  I'm getting worried.

09:00 PM:  No Message left

10:00 PM:  If you don't have the decency to call me back and let me know how you are doing or worse...Are you off consoling yourself in some woman’s bed or trying to drown your sorrows in alcohol?  If either is the case you can forget about me and don't you ever even look at my daughter again.  I will also ask for a transfer to make sure we have severed all ties.

 - "No, no, no."  Jaejoong cried, she sounded beyond angry but also hurt.  "What did I do?  What did I do?"  He realized he had deliberately left his phone in the car not wanting to be bothered as he wallowed in self-pity.  He was a grown man, a top doctor and wealthy on top of it all.  He had everything going for him, why did he act this way?  "Damn!"  He slammed his hand into the steering wheel, welcoming the pain.  He had to call Abigaíl back.  She'll never see him again, she meant it.  He had to at least try, beg for mercy, grovel if need be.  Anything to keep her from leaving his life.

Dialing her number, he was almost relieved when her voicemail picked up.  Of course, she was asleep at midnight.

Abigaíl had gone from concern to worry to anger to downright fury.  Who did that man think he was?  He said he loved her but didn't have the decency to call her all day?  If he got hit by a semi, at least the hospital will see the missed call from her.  She was so furious she couldn't sleep.  When at last she began to doze off she heard her phone ring.  She ignored it thinking it was the wrong number.  After all, it had to be past midnight.  Unfortunately, whoever it was left a message.  Wide awake anyway, she might as well see who it was.

Relieved and angry at the same time, to see it was Dr. Jaejoong, she would have deleted the voicemail but curiosity got the best of her.  Where had he been all day?  "Abigail-ssi, jwosongmnida!  I'm so sorry, please I need you.  Please don't give up on me."  Abigaíl thought he was almost in tears but he was also drunk.  "I thought I could stay strong but I blew it," he almost whispered.  "I need you to keep me sane because I have no idea what I'm doing without you.  I went out for two drinks and all I know is...I'm in front of your house.  I'm frightened, I don’t know how I ended up here, and I can't believe I drove here like this.  Abi-yah, Na jagiya, I'm a mess, please help me.  Don't leave me too.  I couldn't bear it.  I don't want to go back to the old Jaejoong.  I realized that somewhere around the fourth round.  I need you; my life would be nothing without Isabel and you.  Please, help me."

He sounded desperate, frightened and alone.  Abigaíl sat on her bed not knowing what to do.  Could she really trust him?  She wanted to strangle him and comfort him.  He was in front of her house?  Did he drive drunk?  She was going to beat him up.  Before she knew it, Abigaíl had put on her slippers and wrapped a robe around her.  Having grabbed an extra blanket and pillow she carefully exited the house.  There he was sitting on the sidewalk, head in his hands.  While she still wanted to commit bodily harm, the desire to comfort him was getting stronger.  She repressed that urge and marched up to him.  Placing the blanket and pillow on the car hood, she removed her slipper, not caring that the street was cold.  He hadn't looked up at her, too afraid.  "Of all the stupid, moronic, idiotic, irresponsible things to do, Dr. Kim Jaejoong."  Abigaíl beat him over the head with her slipper after each word.  Jaejoong took every hit without protest or looking up at her.  He quietly sobbed as she continued.  "What if you'd gotten yourself killed or hurt someone else.  What was I supposed to tell Isabel?  What about your parents?  Is this what you call love Dr. Jaejoong?  You say you love your parents and Isabel and me?  This is the way you prove it?  By getting wasted and putting yourself and others in harm’s way?"  Abigaíl hadn't stopped beating him with her slipper on his head and his shoulders and an occasional kick to make a point.  "Give me one good reason I shouldn't just let Satan have you."

Jaejoong felt sick, how much did he and Seounghyun drink?  He deserved every hit she was giving him.  What could he say?  He got on his knees in the street to her surprise.  "Save me, please?  Jebal."  He choked back a sob.

Abigaíl didn't know what to do.  He was kneeling on the asphalt, crying and making a spectacle of himself.  She led a relatively quiet life and that's how she liked it.  Jaejoong just shook everything up.

 - "Get up."  Jaejoong remained kneeling.  "I said get up!  If you want to sleep in your car, then that's fine. If not, bring the blanket and pillow with you and follow me."  Abigaíl didn't wait for him to get up nor helped him, she turned her back and began to walk.  She was already across the street before he even managed to stand up.  Staggering his way to her front door, he managed to quietly re-lock it and walk to where Abigaíl was in the living room.  "There's the couch, don't you dare throw up."  In the time it took him to cross the street, she had grabbed a bottle of water from the kitchen and a bucket.

Jaejoong saw all this and dropped to his knees again.  "Kansamnida!  Kansamnida, I'm so sorry I put you through this."

 - "Just keep quiet and go to sleep."  She shushed him before he woke everyone up.  "Thankfully we leave before my parents are awake.  It will be easier to explain you spent the night without you actually being here.  I've got to be awake in four hours and I'm not going to be in a good mood, so if you'll excuse me."

Jaejoong grabbed her hand as she turned to leave.  "Mianhae.  Saranghaeyo Abigaíl, I'll never do anything like this ever again.  I promise."

 - "Save your promises and save your love for when you can be certain know what love means."

May 14, 2014

Isabel had a billion and one questions on the way to school that morning.  "Dr. Prince, why don't you feel good?  When did you come?  Why is Umma driving your car?  Why do you look so sad?  Umma are you mad at Dr. Prince?"  She wasn't getting answers and worse of all Dr. Prince wouldn't let her hug him.  He told her he hadn't had his shower yet.

Jaejoong looked at Abigaíl as if she was a time bomb waiting to go off.  Even with her lack of sleep and scowl on her face, she was still the most precious sight in his eyes.  "Mianhae jagi," he tried to answer her laundry list of questions, despite his throbbing head.  He needed hangover soup badly.  He text HyoJoo and asked her to bring him a batch.  He would compensate her well for it.  "Umma is tired because she had to help me last night and I just have a bad headache but it will go away soon.  That's why Umma is driving for me.  I needed a friend last night and Umma was there for me."  He was a little scared to look at Abigaíl but continued letting her know how grateful he was in every way.

Abigaíl looked at Dr. Jaejoong from the corner of her eye.  He cleaned up a little but still looked like he hadn't slept or changed his clothes in weeks.  And yet he had the patience to answer all of Isabel's questions.  How can he do that?  She caught herself smiling and quickly stopped.  It was going to be a long day.

Ilana was already in her seat when Abigaíl arrived.  "Chica, you look exhausted, are you okay?"

 - "Yes, we had a late-night guest and I didn't get enough sleep."

 - "I have a little bit of Citron tea with me, I'll make you some."  Ilana quickly went to where their little refrigerator and water dispenser was.

 - "This is really good, thanks," Abigaíl said when Ilana returned a minute later.

The morning passed quietly as Abigaíl was too tired to speak.  "Do you mind going to lunch without me, I need to take a late lunch.  There's someone I need to meet."

 - "Okay, but chica are you keeping secrets from me?"  Ilana teased Abigaíl.  She should be one to talk, with all the secrets she had.

 - "l..." Abigaíl started.

Ilana laughed, "Don’t worry; you don't have to tell me anything."  

Abigaíl sighed and Ilana went off to get her lunch.  Abigaíl sent a text as soon as Ilana left the station.  "Meet me in the cafeteria at one and don't be late."

Ilana took her lunch on the rooftop again.  As long as she had a sweater, the breeze didn't bother her and there was plenty of sun.  She ate lunch slowly while reading.  She was so used to someone chatting her ear off or just sitting next to her keeping her company, it was unbelievable that a person's mere presence made noise, no matter how quiet they were.  How many times were she and Jihoo just quiet together, but when he wasn't around, it was too quiet.  Then there were the times he snuck up on her.  He was very much a cat in that aspect.  It was definitely too quiet around here without him.  Ilana wondered what was going on with Dr. Jaejoong and Abigaíl; he was stranger today than he'd ever been.  He was quiet, wasn't joking, wasn’t flirting and Abigaíl hardly had said a word to him and he took care of everything Ilana needed him to approve or sign, immediately without delay.  That was odd in and of itself.  Ilana read a little longer and soon it was time to go back.  She stretched and picked up her phone, sending a quick text before heading back downstairs.

Jaejoong spotted Abigaíl and his heart quickened in actual fear.  What was she going to tell him?  "Look, before you say anything," he had walked up to her.  "I want you to know it was you that kept me from staying out all night drinking."  Abigaíl opened to speak but he stopped her.  "That's how I know I love you.  Yes, I shouldn't have put myself in that position, knowing the temptation.  But you said we all make mistakes.  I can do better because I don't want to see you look at me with disgust and anger and disappointment ever again."   He took her hand, rubbing it with his thumb.  "Please, I need you to believe in me."

 - "Give me my hand, sit down, stop talking and eat."  Abigaíl had taken out a tub of Menudo (tripe soup) from the freezer, which is famed as a cure for hangovers.  When your family owns a restaurant, things like chopping become second nature.  So even half asleep this morning she was able to chop up cilantro, onions, cabbage, radishes and quarter lemons and clean her mess.

Jaejoong was speechless as she prepared a bowl for him and added the toppings and a little crushed oregano.  It smelled wonderful.  A shy smile tugged on his lips, "kansamnida."  He took a spoonful.  "Oh!  This is sooo good," Jaejoong hurriedly took another large spoonful.  Abigaíl couldn't help smile at this idiot in front of her who was very much enjoying his lunch.

The pair ate in relative silence until it was killing Jaejoong.  "Abi-ssi," trying to be cute now that he felt restored with good food.  "Do you forgive me?  I really didn't mean to drink like that.  I even drove my parents myself instead of using the driver.  Unfortunately, I ran into an old acquaintance and well...next thing I realized I was drunk and wished I weren't.  That's all I really remember until I woke up in front of your house."

 - "Why didn't you call me or your driver instead of getting behind the wheel?"  Abigaíl was more horrified that he drove drunk than him being drunk.

 - "I-I don't know?  I was so angry at myself and so drunk, I don't even remember getting in the car, much less driving.  I've never driven drunk, I completely freaked when I was no longer at the restaurant but in front of your house."

Abigaíl could see he was shaken.  She thought he learned his lesson and prayed that he did.  "The proverb I told you about has a first part.  It says:  One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin.  You need to pick your friends wisely."

 - "I know that now and I'm so glad I picked you.  Can you forgive me?"

Abigaíl sighed.  "We all fall but we can pick ourselves up again.  God was obviously watching over you, even if you were being an idiot.  Who am I to withhold forgiveness?"  The truth was she had been worried sick about him.  At least she felt some peace after beating him to her heart's content.  Even if it was only with her slipper.

 - "Mianhae, I can be strong if you're by my side."

 - "I've been strong on my own for almost six years." Abigaíl looked away from Jaejoong’s intense eyes.  "I need someone that can be strong with me."

 - "I can do better than that, I can be there when you need someone to lean on and someone to make you laugh and someone to love Isabel and you with all my heart."

Abigaíl couldn't talk about this right now.  She felt herself getting emotional from lack of sleep.  "Finish up and return my Tupperware washed.  I gotta go back to work."  Abigaíl had begun to walk away but then looked back to Jaejoong who was watching her walk away with a small smile on his face.  "One more thing...If you expect us to go on Saturday, you can tell my parents why you had to sleep on the couch last night.  See ya!"

Jaejoong suddenly felt sick.  He might as well hang himself because Mr. García was going to shoot him.

Abigaíl knew she was being a bit cruel, but just because she forgave him didn't mean he should not be punished.  Besides, her Dad could help him.  He too used to drink into oblivion at one time. That was before her Mom finally convinced him to go to Church and get saved.  After a long abstinence, he could have a beer on occasion or a glass of wine without going overboard and getting drunk.

Jihoo noticed a message on his phone that morning.

Ilana:  Hurry back, things are very strange around here without you.  Dr. Jaejoong didn't come in at all yesterday and Abigaíl and he both had very tired eyes this morning.  Also, Dr. Jaejoong dutifully signed all my requests without delay.  ShiYoon told me he saw Abigaíl and Dr. Jaejoong in a corner of the cafeteria, having a serious discussion the other day.  I thought they have been having lunch together.  Could Abigaíl finally be falling for his charm?  Ke Ke ke.  Missing my companion, Joy misses you too.  See you soon.  I hope you're not working too hard.

Jihoo smiled at the message.  It might be that Jaejoong's parents have come back to Seoul.  Harabeoji would know.  That would explain moody Jaejoong.  It took all this time for Jaejoong to realize he was in love with Abigaíl; he must have finally convinced her.  As for himself, he could wait.  He was happy with the way things were progressing.  He's waited this long, he could wait a little longer.

Jihoo:  I'll see you Friday afternoon; you know WooBin and JaeKyung will want to get together.  Jalja.              

May 16, 2014

Ilana was looking forward to the end of the workday with mounting excitement, even though she didn't want to admit it.  She told herself she was excited to see Ha Jaekyung again.  WooBin, Jihoo, and JaeKyung were meeting her in front of the hospital.

 - "Earth to Ilana."  Abigaíl waved a hand in Ilana's line of vision.  She had been staring off into space with a slight smile on her face.

Ilana startled, "huh?"

 - "You were staring into space."

 - "I was?  Oh, I must have zoned out for a bit."  Abigaíl laughed, let's go.

 - "Just a sec, let me log out."

 - "You should have logged out instead of staring into space."

 - "Very funny."

Jaejoong walked up at that moment.  "What's funny?  Abi-yah, ready to go?"

 - "Nothing's funny and where do you think you two are going?"  Ilana mock scolded.

 - "He's going to dinner at my parent's restaurant."  Abigaíl just forewent mentioning that he'd be having a conversation with her Dad.

Ilana raised her eyebrow in disbelief at the too simple explanation. She began to walk out of the unit.

 - "Is Jihoo back from his meetings today?"  Jaejoong intercepted the look Ilana gave them by throwing a question right back at her.

 - "Mmm, he's meeting his friends WooBin-ssi and JaeKyung Unnie."

 - "I didn't know they'd be in town."

 - "I think WooBin-ssi is getting ready to open his new club soon."

 - "Oh, I read something about that.  Jagiya, I'll take you for the grand opening."

 - "Provided, I'm still talking to you then."

 - "We work together; you have to talk to me."  Jaejoong had lost some of his wariness around her.  After all, he'd be walking into the line of fire soon.  That should show Abigaíl he's completely serious.

 - "I can get a transfer," she countered.

They were all now in front of the elevator and no one else was around.  In a very bold move, Jaejoong hugged Abigaíl from behind.  "I'll block that transfer."

Abigail’s eyes opened wide in surprise.  "Do you mind?"  She said annoyed, but more so embarrassed.

 - "Anieyo, I don't mind.  I can hold you all day long."

 - "Come on you two or I'm going to close the elevator door on you."  The elevator had opened and Ilana walked in, hoping Jaejoong got the hint to let go of her friend before he found himself singing a high C.

Ilana was anticipating seeing Jihoo and of course WooBin and JaeKyung again, the elevator couldn't go down fast enough.  At last, they had reached the first floor and Ilana walked out first.  "Have a good evening you two, I'll see you tomorrow."  The next day they would all be going into Rochester to watch 'Beauty and The Beast'.  Ilana waved and began to walk towards the back exit, followed by Jaejoong and Abigaíl.

 - "Why are you going this way?"  Abigaíl asked.  The front entrance was more in the direction of Ilana's apartment.

 - "Oh, I'm meeting J-Dr. Jihoo and his friends."

 - "Yah, Ilana-ya, gwenchana, just call him Jihoo.  I do".

Ilana tried not to blush.  "Well, we should keep our friendship outside of work.  It would be the professional thing to do."

 - "Keep telling yourself that."  Jaejoong patted Ilana's head and walked ahead pulling Abigaíl with him.  Abigaíl was trying hard not to laugh at Ilana.

WooBin and Jaekyung had insisted on coming with Jihoo to pick Ilana up at the hospital.  "You guys could have waited at JaeKyung's place or even my place."  Actually, he had a small gift for Ilana and didn't want an audience.  He'd have to give it to her on Saturday before the musical.  He hoped JaeKyung kept her comments to herself.

 - "It's after five, when is Ilana coming down." Jaekyung pouted; excited at seeing Jihoo's other half, even if the two didn't know that's what they were.

 - "I'm sure she's talking with her friend Abigaíl and Dr. Jaejoong is interrupting them as usual.  She will be down soon."

 - "Oh!  That's the commoner that Jaejoong is in love with.  His parents are all for the match Umma told me.  I vaguely remember being introduced to her when I visited with Ilana in the hospital.  She's very pretty and exotic looking, I can see why Jaejoong fell for her.  I hope she can handle him."

 - "I believe she can," Jihoo grinned.  He looked at his watch; it was already a quarter past five.  He didn't want to believe he was getting impatient.

Ilana stood still for a moment trying to figure out what Jaejoong could have meant.  Giving up, she ran to catch up with the other two who were crossing the hospital door.  "Yah, what's that supposed to mean?"  Ilana said when she caught up.

Immediately at hearing her voice Jihoo turned his head.

 - "Ilana!"

Ilana had barely caught a glimpse of Jihoo but before she could move, JaeKyung had already barreled into her with a hug.  "Unnie!"  Ilana hugged her back.

 - "Yah, what took you so long; we've been waiting forever.  Hey, Jaejoong...Abigaíl right?  I'm JaeKyung, nice to meet you again."

 - "Nice to meet you too," Abigaíl extended a hand.

 - "JaeKyung-ah, don't exaggerate, we haven't been waiting long.  Ilana-yah, good to see you again.  Jaejoong you too, I hear congratulations are in order.  This must be Abigaíl, the one who tamed the Casanova of New York."

 - "I..."  Abigaíl didn't know what to say she was bright red.

 - "Deh, what can I say, she captured me completely.  We've gotta go now.  Yah, Jihoo aren't you gonna greet your admin?  See you tomorrow."  Jaejoong waved and dragged Abigaíl with him.

Ilana wanted to smack Dr. Jaejoong.  She hadn't been able to escape because she was surrounded by Jaejoong, Abigaíl, WooBin, and JaeKyung.  She would almost think they did it on purpose but that would be plain silly.  Finally free, she saw her cherished friend smiling at her.  "Ajussi!"  Trying to still the impulse to run, she walked up to him quickly.

 - "Agassi," he spoke in his playful monotone that he reserved only for her.

Ilana awkwardly gave him a quick side hug, even though she wanted so much to tell him she'd missed him.  Why did she feel awkward?  Had it been one of her Oppa-deul, she would've thrown herself into him for a hug.  Standing slightly facing Ilana, he took her hand gently in his.  "Jal Jeenaetsuh (Have you been well)?"

 - "Jaljinaseyo," Ilana replied with a smile.

Jihoo had longed to see that smile all week and would have liked to wrap her into a nice long 'I missed you' hug but he was very aware of the two grinning fools behind them.  He broke eye contact with her after what seemed like an hour but had only been a minute or two. "Greon, what are we doing?"  He asked, removing his hand from Ilana's but immediately placing it on the small of her back bringing her a little closer in the excuse that he was addressing all of them.

 - "Begopa," JaeKyung complained.  "I want pizza!  I've already made us reservations for a place in Brooklyn I've been dying to try."  JaeKyung was always hungry and almost as thin as Ilana herself.  She may have been born a chaebol's daughter but she had a commoner's spirit.

 - "Aish Monkey, you could've told us beforehand.  Pizza sound good?"  WooBin asked.

Jihoo looked to Ilana, who nodded her head 'yes'.  "Deh," Jihoo answered for both.

 - "Daeback!  We need to stop at my place and pick up some bottles of wine from Appa's cellar.  We'll meet you there."  JaeKyung was fond of making plans for everyone.

 - "Arraso, we'll see you there."  Jihoo turned to Ilana, "driving to Brooklyn on a Friday night?  We'll be in the car for a while.  Na brought a CD of new music the orchestra is working on.  Would Ilana like to listen?"

 - "Mmm, Deh."

 - "Kaja," Jihoo placed his hand on the small of Ilana's back and led her to the car.

Traffic was miserable as Jihoo and Ilana drove to their destination.  They listened intently to the music while still in the awkward stage after not seeing each other for a week.   Jihoo finally broke the silence as he turned down the music.  "Na could see Jaejoong was up to something.  Abigaíl appeared nervous too."

 - "Deh, I don't think Dr. Jaejoong is just having dinner at the restaurant.  Na needed you this week they were acting so strangely."  Ilana was oblivious to the fact she had just said she needed him.

Jihoo chuckled and sighed as if pensive, "na do needed Ilana-yah this week."

 - "Yah!  Tease!"  Ilana realized he was echoing her words back at her and was turning red.

 - "Bogoshipŏssŏyo," Jihoo took her hand and gave it a quick squeeze just for emphasis.

Ilana looked over to see Jihoo smiling at her.  "Na do," Ilana said in a begrudging tone and looked away so he wouldn't see her smiling.  She wondered why he always made her blush.

The conversation flowed freely after that.  Ilana asked him about Harabeoji, KyuJong, and Inhei as well.  They arrived at the restaurant.  Woobin and JaeKyung were still on their way.  Killing the engine, Jihoo turned to Ilana:  "That does it, between distributing your hugs and your hundred questions about the trip; I'm taking you with me next month."

Ilana laughed at his so-called punishment.  "Ha!  SeongRyung Unnie would kill me if she knew I ran away to Seoul with you for a week."

Jihoo pretended to be interested in what was going on outside of the window.  "And would you?"

 - "Mworago?"

 - "Runaway with me to Seoul?"

 - "Maybe in July before KyuJong Oppa enlists,” Ilana played along.  Jihoo turned to look at her in surprise.  She laughed at his funny face.  "Jihoo-yah, stop teasing.  Even if I wanted to, I only have three days’ vacation left."

 - "Gwenchana, Ilana-yah wouldn’t need to worry about money."

 - "It's not about the money, stop trying to tempt me."

 - "Arraso," Jihoo smiled at her.  He had no idea where he was going with that line of questioning.  Could he have been secretly hoping she'd say yes?  They were caught in a moment of silence.

Someone opened Ilana's door, making her scream in fright.  "JaeKyung Unnie!  Omo!  Did you have to scare me to death?" Her head had been so wrapped in the conversation, certain that Jihoo could easily persuade her to join him next month.  She did not see JaeKyung and WooBin approach.

 - "Mianhae," JaeKyung said.  "Didn't mean to scare you, let's go in."

 - "You two really should pay better attention; someone could've come and slit your throat."

Jihoo noticed Ilana's frightened face at WooBin's words.  "WooBin there are too many people here."

 - "Mariyah, you never know."

 - "WooBin..." Jihoo started and then stopped.  "Never mind."  Every now and then he forgot who WooBin really was.  The Prince of South Korea's mafia royal family.

Their reservations were at seven, they weren't seated until a quarter to eight, and their food didn't arrive until after eight-fifteen.  Needless to say, they were starving, JaeKyung was getting irritated and Ilana was just tired.  So much so, she had gradually without any guidance, leaned her head on Jihoo's shoulder.  WooBin was grinning, while Jihoo gave him a death glare.

When the food arrived Jihoo nudged Ilana's hand.  "Food's here."

 - "Thank goodness, I thought I might faint from hunger."

 - "Gwenchana," WooBin began.  "Ilana's personal Uissa is right next to her."

 - "WooBin-ssi!"  Ilana tried to scold.

 - "Na don't mind," Jihoo smiled at Ilana.

 - "Jihoo-yah doesn't have to pretend I'm not a troublemaker."

 - "Deh but Ilana breaks the monotony," Jihoo said taking a slice of Pizza so as not to laugh.

 - "Gee thanks, I'm glad to know I'm amusement for you."  Ilana pretended offense but she could see the glint of humor in his eyes.

 - "Let's toast," WooBin said pouring wine for his wife and Jihoo.  Ilana already had a soda.  Jihoo poured for WooBin and they all said “Gombae!”  The pizza was delicious, Jaekyung at an entire pizza herself, while Jihoo, WooBin, and Ilana shared two pizza's between them.

WooBin and JaeKyung had Ilana laughing with their antics all through dinner.  "Ilana-yah, we'll go shopping when it gets closer to the club opening day," JaeKyung said once they were all ready to go.

Ilana looked at Jihoo with despair; it would be Park JungMin and Sydney all over again.  "You'll be fine," he whispered to her.  She gave him an 'if you say so' look.

 - "Let's go back to my place." JaeKyung who was never tired wanted to keep hanging out.

Ilana looked at Jihoo, "Na have to run home; someone is waiting for me.  It's not like me to be so late."

 - "Sounds mysterious?  Who's waiting for you?" JaeKyung asked.

 - "My little companion," Ilana teased.

 - "Yah, Jihoo, what's your admin been up to while you've been away?”

 - "Agassi, who's this companion?"  WooBin meant exactly the connotation his words implied.

 - "Ilana-yah is the proud Umma of a goyangi whose name is Joy."  Jihoo cleared up the deliberate misunderstanding.

 - "Aaaw, Yeobo, let's go see the goyangi," JaeKyung begged.  "When did you get her?"

 - "Not that long ago, a dear friend gave her to me."  Ilana smiled widely at Jihoo.

 - "Kaja, we'll feed Joy and spend the rest of the evening at my place."

While WooBin and Jihoo went to his apartment, JaeKyung and Ilana went to hers.

 - "Someone seemed happy to see you?"  WooBin teased Jihoo, who didn't comment.  "So you got her a cat?  She probably doesn't know what to make of you?  How long are you going to wait?  You're meant for each other and everyone around can see it for miles.  What are you guys waiting for?"

 - "Na just want her to tell me who she is.  She tells me small details of her childhood but never really anything more.  Sometimes Na think she is so close and then she stops.  Na, don't tell her I see the pain in her eyes at those times."

 - "Don't wait too long, are you going to let her hide her pain the way you did?"

 - "That's why I'm always there for her...WooBin, I can feel she lost someone very close to her.  If you know and I'm sure you do, don't tell me."

 - "Arasso."  WooBin didn't say anymore and made himself at home on the couch.  The girl was a match for Jihoo's stubbornness.  Ilana's smile transformed her face when she saw Jihoo.  It had been fun keeping them apart for those minutes, knowing how badly they had missed each other.

In Ilana's apartment, JaeKyung fawned over Joy.  The kitten was a little apprehensive at first.  Who was this loud stranger?  She was used to her quiet Umma and Ajussi but as soon as JaeKyung put her on her lap and scratched her ears the two bonded.  "Omo!  She's an angel!"  JaeKyung an all too happy Joy.

 - "Deh, it seems I've been forgiven for coming home late.  She has someone knew to pet her."

 - "Where did Jihoo get her?"

 - "Mollah?  Somewhere on eighth street, I guess."

 - "Oh Deh, I think there's a pet store over there.  Did the cat tree come with Joy?"

 - "Deh," Ilana said in exasperation, "as did the litter box in the shape of a tree and the water fountain and bowl."

 - "He's still got it."

 - "Got what?"

 - "The F4 spirit.  Whatever you do, do it big."

Ilana laughed.  "I guess you're right, but...he's really not extravagant.  At least I don't think so.  Not like Dr. Jaejoong, anyway."

 - "Na didn't know Jaejoong when I was at Shinwa.  His parent's and mine aren't very close friends, but they do visit each other on occasion.  But the few times I've met Jaejoong he's almost like JunPyo and a bit like YiJung.  Jihoo's much different."

 - "Na don't know the others that well but Jihoo is different.  I was afraid of him when I first began to work at the hospital."

 - "Of Jihoo?"

 - "Majayo," Ilana laughed.  "We were always running into each other where I least expected and then I called in with a migraine, a month or so after I started working there.  It was before his monthly trip home, I didn't know at the time that's what he did, nor did I care.  It wasn't my place.  He visited me at home and brought me Citron tea and samgyetang.  I was so shocked, I don't know if I actually let him in the door or did he just come in?  Mollah.  Is an F4 trait, getting into someone else's business?"

 - "Most definitely."

 - "Aside from his oddness, he's been a comfort and friend.  He's always there when I need him, even if I don't know I need him."  Ilana unknowingly had a small smile on her face.  JaeKyung was grinning from ear to ear.  "He makes me laugh after he's let me cry.  I can see the smile in his eyes even if he's got his poker face on, we can sit for hours and hardly say a word but just enjoy each other’s company.  He's the perfect best friend."  Ilana realized she was grinning and immediately stopped.  "I sound silly, don't I?"

 - "Anieyo!"  JaeKyung wanted to laugh.  "This girl has no clue she's head over heels in love with Jihoo," she said to herself.

 - "It's just I didn't have friends growing up.  I led a sheltered life.  My first real friends were Suzy, HyungJun, KyuJong, Jungmin, and YoungSaeng.  Next, to Suzy, Saengie Oppa was my first best friend."  Ilana didn't realize she had spoken in the past tense.

 - "Why did you say was?"

 - "I did?  Oh, maybe because he's in the military now and I won't see him for two years."

 - "He liked you more than a best friend, didn't he?  Why didn't you date him?  You're already best friends; it's natural to take the next step.  That's kind of how WooBin and I started."

 - "It's complicated, Unnie.  I'm not good at the whole relationship thing."

 - "How do you know, if you don't try.  I didn’t know where my life was headed after I had a failed arranged marriage, even if I was at peace with the decision.  After staying in New York for a while I went back to Seoul I started spending more time with WooBin and one thing led to another and look at us now?  The love of your life could be the next one that knocks on your door."

Of course, the guys were done with their heart to heart before the girls and were getting restless.  "Dude, what's keeping them?  JaeKyung said they were going to feed goyangi and come right over."

Jihoo smiled at the impatient newlywed in front of him.  "Joy has a tendency to rope you in if you're not careful.  Before you know it, you'll have been petting her for an hour."

 - "They've been over there for about that amount of time."

 - "Arraso, I'll knock on the door.  If Joy is on JaeKyung's lap she'll ignore your call."

 - "I'll wait here."

I'm not that confident about this chapter but things needed to be lined up.  I wanted to finish May with this chapter but it didn't happen.  Next chapter might be small, so comment away so you motivate me to crank it out faster. 

The F4 family is really pushing Jihoo.

Wonder how JaeJoong's conversation with Mr. Garcia will go?

Did Jaejoong really drive drunk?

Well I'm at work and sneakily doing this in between my tasks, so please comment, comment, comment.

 - Saranghae