July 5, 2014

It was just past ten when Jihoo woke in Ilana's spare room.   He didn't want to leave her alone, just in case.  Yesterday's attack had been much worse than the one she had at his home, in Seoul.  Although much better by the end of the evening and after their play fight; he smiled thinking of it.  He had still noticed a trace of fear or skittishness and also at times, though he didn't want to admit it was true, she looked at him with longing.

"I need you."

Those words, she uttered, played in his head all night.  He wanted to fill all her needs if only she would let him.  She had fought sleep last night; he'd given her chamomile tea and had brought over his guitar and played for her.  They talked about nothing in particular.  Every time he tried to bring up the boat, he heard her breathing change and she would change the subject or answer his question with an unrelated one.  What was it about boats in general that set her off or was it that particular boat?  Something told him it was a little of both.  "I need help, Lord!  Help me figure this out?"  Prayer did not come easy for him, unlike SeungRyung who had a verse or a prayer for everything.  Sighing, he washed his face and brushed his teeth.  He had only brought pajamas and basic toiletries with him when he'd gone for his guitar.  Throwing on the same shirt and pants from the day before, he went out to make her breakfast.  She had eaten so little yesterday, perhaps pancakes would be too heavy.

Joy had left Ilana's room as she heard Jihoo rummaging through the pantry, her own breakfast long overdue.   "Annyeong hasseyo, Joy-ah, begopahyo?"  The kitten responded with a long whining meow.  "Shh!!  Arraso, don't wake Umma."  Taking out her food and putting it in her bowl, he asked:  "What should we make Umma for breakfast, hmm?"  Joy no longer cared; having her own food, she ate ravenously.  "Atch, Joy, acts like she hasn't eaten in days."  He didn't have Ilana's house code so he couldn't run home.  Looking up breakfast recipes on his phone, he looked in her refrigerator and pantry.  He found that Ilana had everything to make a hearty oatmeal.  It would give her the nutrition she needed and be soft on her stomach as well.

Breakfast ready, he turned off the kettle just before it whistled and poured a cup of tea.  He had found a bed tray in the pantry and placed all the breakfast dishes on top.  The only thing missing was a flower, another time perhaps.  Instead, he folded her napkin in the shape of a heart.

After tucking her in the night before, he'd left her door slightly open so he could hear her in case she began to panic.  He'd checked on her a few times only to find her face stained with tears.  He didn't want to have to wake her up but she wasn't going to feel well at all if she didn't eat.  Joy inhaled her food, used the proper facilities and ran ahead of Jihoo to Ilana's room.  Giving a running jump onto the bed, Joy began to purr and paw at Ilana's face as if saying 'wake up Umma, breakfast is ready'.  It worked because Ilana began to stir as Jihoo walked into the room with the breakfast tray.

 - "Mmm…Joy-ah, five more minutes, Umma is tired."  Ilana mumbled and blindly pet the kitten trying to bring her to lay next down next to her.

Jihoo set the tray at the foot of the bed and smiled at the scene before him.  Ilana had dozed back off.  She was flushed from sleep and her hair was splayed in a solid carpet over the pillow.   She had left it loose instead of gathering it in a ponytail to sleep.  "How to wake her up without startling her?"  He wondered.  "Ilana-yah, wake up," Jihoo combed the hair away from her face with his fingers.

 - "Joy-ah, I must not be feeling well still, I hear Ajussi."

Jihoo laughed silently.  He took a strand of hair and caressed her cheek with it.  "Ara, Joy is hungry."  Joy had curled up in the crook of Ilana's outstretched arm and was not really close to her face.  It took Ilana a few more seconds to realize that, before opening her eyes to see a man smiling down at her.  Screaming, she sat up in bed frightening the cat, which jumped claws first from Ilana's arm.  Only upon feeling the sting of the scratch did she realize it was Jihoo.  "Aish!  Jihoo-yah," Ilana felt herself trembling as she tried to figure out why Jihoo was in her room.

 - "Mianhae, I didn't mean to startle you.  I made you breakfast."  He inhaled his breath, seeing the gash Joy had made on Ilana's arm.  There was no help for it, he took the heart-shaped napkin and pressed it Ilana's arm.  "Hold that while I get disinfectant."

Ilana felt dizzy and lay back down with eyes closed, still not sure what to make of Jihoo in her apartment.

On returning, he sat on the bed and began to clean the gash on her arm.  Ilana tried to pull away, still caught in fear's grip.  "No!  Don't touch me!"

 - "I'm not letting go."

 - "I said let go!"  Ilana sat back up and punched him with all her strength, which wasn't much.

Jihoo could see she was distressed, although not to the point she had been on the boat.  He grabbed both her hands and wrapped his arms around her, trapping hers in between them.  "Shh.  Yah, jwosongmnida."  He spoke soothingly as always while her back.  "Jwosongmnida, I didn't want to leave you alone last night.  I slept in your spare room, mianhae.  Ilana knows I didn't mean to frighten you."

Squeezing her eyes shut to stop the tears, she took several deep breaths.  "Gwenchana," she said once she found her voice again.  "Gwenchana, you just startled me, that's all.  Mianhae."  His warmth was beginning to cut through her fear and bring her that sense of security she'd come to associate with him.

 - "Jwosongmnida, forgive me?"

Ilana nodded her head and then realized she had a fistful of his shirt in her hand.  "Jihoo!"  Ilana jumped back.  "Your shirt!"  She had stretched it a little.  "I'll buy you a new one, mianhae."

He pulled her back into his arms; he could see she was still unsettled even if she was trying to regain her composure.  "Gwenchana, na don't need another shirt.  Na just want Ilana to be fine."

 - "Deh, overprotective Oppa.  Nomu mianhae."

He felt her tense again, "shh, it's not your fault."  He held her face with his hand, so she could see in his eyes he was telling her the truth.  Ilana got caught in his gaze again and felt goosebumps form on her arms.

 "Sarang..."

Ilana thought she heard Jihoo's voice but he didn't move his lips.  He was just looking at her.  She closed her eyes feeling dizzy.

 -"Ilana-yah needs to eat, you're pale."  He arranged her pillows so she could sit up before letting her go to get the food tray.  Somehow Ilana thought the dizziness had nothing to do with lack of food but what else could it be?

Jihoo placed the tray over her and uncovered the food.  "I found this recipe online, I hope you like it."

It smelled wonderful but it looked just too much.  There was no way she could eat it all.  "Jihoo-yah, it looks delicious but I can't eat all of this."

Jihoo had found the biggest bowl she owned and filled it to the top.  He didn't think one serving was enough, so he doubled the recipe.

 - "The yeoja will be here soon and even if you're just staying in, you need energy.   Eat."

Sighing, this was a battle she couldn't win; she took a spoonful of the still steaming oatmeal in front of her.  "Mmm," her eyes opened in surprise, "this is good.  Jihoo needs to send me the recipe."

He smiled, able to rest now that she was eating.  He was worried after having frightened her again.  "What time were the yeoja coming?"

 - "Not until mid-afternoon, JaeKyung Unnie thought we could all have dinner together, just order in or something.  Are the namja meeting you?"

 - "Most likely, where the yeoja are, the namja follow," he looked away smiling.  He was getting just as bad as his friends, not wanting to leave Ilana's side.  He had forbidden her to go out today on the pretense that he wanted her to rest.  But perhaps a small part of him just wanted her nearby.  "Na will clean your kitchen and Joy's litter box.  I gave her food and water already."  He stood up from the bed.

 - "Jihoo-yah, did you eat?"  Glancing at her phone on her table, it was almost noon.

 - "Anieyo, I'll eat when I get home."

 - "Jeongmal, I can't eat all this.  Try some and if you like it, go get another spoon." Ilana gathered a spoonful and offered it to him.  Instead of taking the spoon from her, he ate from her hand, just like YoungSaeng had done on a few occasions.  She could feel her face getting bright red and her heart-beat speeding up.

He saw her blush and eyes widen.  Being so comfortable around her he forgot she was probably not used to sharing food like that.  Of course, not that he really ever did that but with Ilana, he wanted to.  Jihoo wanted to share so many firsts with her.  She looked so adorable, he couldn't help laugh.  "Mmm, masheesuhyo.  Mianhae, Na should have taken the spoon from you but I didn't think of it."

 - "Gwenchana," Ilana said after swallowing to regain her voice.  "Saengie Oppa and HyungJun Oppa used to do it to me sometimes.  Jihoo-yah caught me by surprise, that’s all.  Now go get a spoon, palli!"

They polished off the bowl of oatmeal together and although Jihoo insisted on cleaning the kitchen Ilana refused.  He was not one to back down and continued arguing until she had consented to let him help.  This then created a bigger mess when Jihoo splashed water at Ilana and she retaliated.  It was one by the time the kitchen was clean again.

 - "Na will let you get ready; the yeoja will be here soon."

 - "So will the namja.  Is Jihoo happy they are here?"

 - "Anieyo."

 - "Liar, you don't even get to hang out with Jaejoong, since he's been chasing Abigaíl and finally caught her.  All you do is spend time with me.  Na think Jihoo is afraid I'll self-combust or something."

 - "Since Ilana puts it that way," he grinned at her.

 - "Pabo," they stayed quiet for a minute.  She couldn't give him a kiss on the cheek, since she hadn't brushed her teeth yet.  She had to stop him from cleaning the kitchen and didn't have time to duck into the bathroom.

 - "Gomawo..."

 - "I'll go..."

They both spoke at the same time and laughed.

 - "Go ahead," Jihoo said.

 - "Ani, it's not important."

 - "It's important to you," he put a hand on her shoulder.

 - "I just wanted to say gomawo.  Jihoo is..."  Ilana was looking down, embarrassed.  "...so good to me..."

Jihoo wanted to stop her and wrapped his arms around her, which only served to make her emotional.  "Anieyo gwenchanayo."

 - "Anngwenchana, you’re so good to me and how do I repay you?  By hitting you and practically tearing your shirt."  She was crying again and he was shushing her again.

 - "Yah, what did I tell you, chingu are there for each other and there is nothing to repay.  Ilana gave me the shirt and can tear it if she wants and Na frightened you, I deserved to be hit."

 - "Mianhae," Ilana said with a shaky breath.  She didn't understand why she was so emotional.

Jihoo held her for several minutes until he was sure the crying had stopped.  He didn't know what that was all about but he wanted her to know he was there for her.  He sighed and he felt her try to disentangle herself from him, but he only held her tighter.

She was embarrassed enough as it was and now he wasn't letting go?  Granted, her unstable self, relished in his warmth and the safety of his arms.  Was this what it was like to have an older brother to take care of you and chase the nightmares away?  Of course, she didn't dwell on the fact that Kike had been there for her in that way and so was YoungSaeng and KyuJong.  But they didn't try getting to the root if the problem.  She didn't let them.  No, she wouldn't think to herself this was something else, even if she didn't know what that something was.

 - "Ilana-yah?"

His voice sounded different, almost angry.  "Jihoo?"  She felt his hand cradle the back of her head, pinning her against his chest.  She was frightened, but at the same time not frightened; she only knew her heart was racing and so was his.

 - "Ilana-yah, who hurt you?"  His voice was low with controlled emotion.

If she wanted to, Ilana could have pretended not to hear.  She was too shocked to think.  "N-Nobody, I-I don't know what you mean?"  He finally let her pull her head back but he did not relinquish his hold on her, instead, moving his hands to her upper arms.  His gaze was fixed on a point behind her and he wore the same blank face from when they first met, without the suppressed humor.

 - "How long are you going to make yourself sick?  Your panic attacks don't come without reason.  Na...need you to tell me."

Ilana swallowed, he had removed the mask and was now staring at her with undisguised emotion.  She almost faltered but then escaped his eyes in order to firm her resolve.  "Ani, Jihoo does not need to know.  It's in the past and that's where I'd like it to stay.  Na value your friendship more than I can say but if I'm too much trouble, I'll move, transfer hospitals, or whatever else needs to be done in order not to inconvenience you any longer."

Jihoo saw her restraining her tears.  "Anieyo," Jihoo kissed her cheek.  "Forget I said anything.  Na want Ilana to know you can tell me anything, anytime.  Twenty four hours a day.  Now go shower," he kissed the top of her head.  "Your hair still smells like barbecue."

Ilana was prepared for him to completely agree with her but not for him telling her she smelled.  She looked at him, the poker face was back but this time it was the one he reserved just for her.  "Oh, you!!!"  She poked him in the chest, "If someone would just go and let me get ready.  Aish!"  She pushed him to the door.

 - "Arraso!  Arraso!"  He messed her hair, "see you later," and walked out the door.

Ilana was left grinning to herself.

Jihoo walked into his apartment and smiled, although a bit sadly.  He wanted so much for her to tell him everything.  He hated to see her withdraw like that and frightened, especially of him.  At least he can always get through to her, even if it takes a while.  To see her smile at the end of such an ordeal is always a reward.  At the very least he could give her that.

Ilana let her mind wander as the steaming hot water poured over her.  She smiled unconsciously, not really knowing what she was smiling about.  Washing her hair on autopilot, Jihoo's words played back at her.

 "...your hair still smells like barbecue..."

 - "Pabo," Ilana said out loud.  It didn't smell at all.  How did he do that?  He had been frighteningly serious only moments before and then when she least expected it, he says something to make her laugh.

More words began to flood her wandering mind.

"...The love of your life can be the next one that knocks on your door..."

"...sarang..."

Ilana dropped the loofah, why did she keep hearing Jihoo's voice calling her love?  She couldn't put a picture to it, just the memory of his voice.  The next memory made Ilana gasp out loud.

"...I need you..."

 - "No way," she didn't remember when or where she said it but she now had a clear memory of having said it.  "No wonder he was trying extra hard to get me to talk this morning."  She groaned in embarrassment.  How was she going to face him?  He didn't really say anything to her, so maybe he's just brushing her off as being indisposed at the time.  Nothing could change between them.  She liked things just the way they were.

Sometime later the girls all arrived.

 - "Unnie-deul!"  Ilana greeted JaeKyung, JanDi, and Gaeul"

 - "Ilana-yah, how are you feeling?"  JanDi asked, not being able to turn off the doctor in her.

 - "JanDi Unnie is just as bad as her Sunbae.  Jaljinaeyo (I'm fine).

 - "Sunbae is the best because he cares so much."  JanDi gave her a 'get used to it look'.

 - "Deh Unnie, he is the best."  Ilana had to smile.  He was the best at everything he did, including being her best friend.

 - "Well, let's get to work.  We need to find Ilana a dress for the grand opening."

 - "Deh!"  Both Gaeul and JanDi agreed.

 - "Aww Unnie, I've got so many dresses I've only worn once or twice.  Na don't go out, I really don't need so many dresses."

 - "Don't worry about the cost, it's on me."

 - "Anieyo!  I'm more than capable of affording a dress.  Mariyah, na just don't have the lifestyle to need so many."

 - "Let's just see what they have, besides, you don't want anyone to steal your date," JaeKyung winked at Ilana.

 - "Unnie hajima, he's not really a date.  You guys practically forced him to me; he's free to get stolen if he wants."  Even as Ilana said that a nagging feeling told she'd be a little sad if that happened.  She mentally cleared her thoughts; she had no hold on Yoon Jihoo.

 - "Anieyo, Sunbae cannot be forced into anything."

 - "Maja!"

The way the three were smiling at her made Ilana uncomfortable.  It was like they were trying to tell her something.  "Arraso, let's look at dresses."  She changed the subject.

Ilana made tea while JaeKyung had already taken control of the smart TV and was on the Versace website.

 - "Oooh, that red one is pretty," Gaeul admired the red silk spaghetti strapped gown.

 - "Anieyo, that's not Jihoo's style."

Ilana laughed as she brought the tea things into the living room.  "Jihoo would look lovely in it, very graceful."  That set everyone giggling.

 - "Gomawo, Ilana, I'll never be able to see Sunbae the same again."  JanDi incited more laughter.

 - "Aside from Jihoo, who's not wearing the dress, by the way.  I'm not paying $1,200 for a dress I'm only wearing once."

 - "Gwenchana we'll find occasion for Ilana to use it."  Ilana rolled her eyes at JaeKyung.  The F4 women were just as stubborn as their male counterparts.  She didn't see herself as included in that generalization.  "Actually, your chingu Abigaíl would look great in this dress.  I'll email it to Jaejoong."

Ilana thought Abigaíl would kill Jaejoong if she ever found out the price tag on that dress.

They searched for what seemed like hours, Ilana was getting bored fast.  But it was better to be at home, than have JaeKyung drag her all over Fifth Avenue.  All the dresses she liked were in black and JaeKyung struck down each one.  Ilana didn't really mind since she already had 2 or 3 black cocktail dresses.  She didn't need anymore.  "Unnie, I don't wear white."  JaeKyung had changed to Sax Fifth Avenue and modified the search for white dresses.

 - "Gwenchana, I'm looking for something, you'll know when I find it."  Gaeul and JanDi were also looking with interest at the TV screen.  It seemed they all had something in mind, bar what Ilana thought.

Ilana absentmindedly Joy who was on her lap, happy as can be that her Umma was home today.  She had taken turns sleeping with both Ilana and Jihoo.  Again, Ilana's mind wandered to Jihoo, wondering what he and the guys were up to.  It had to be more interesting than this.  Should she text him?  Her phone was right next to her but she didn't want to bother him.  Not after she realized her slip of the tongue.  Why would she have said that?  It was true she looked to him for companionship and friendship, but really 'I need you', was a bit too much.  Wasn't it?  'Sarang' she thought.  That memory also had to be distorted somehow.  They were close but not that close.  As if summoned by her thoughts, her phone vibrated with a message alert.  The girls all had their attention elsewhere.

Jihoo and the rest of the F4 were busy in the common room shooting pool.  WooBin and YiJeong used to play all the time in high school but as adults finding the time was almost impossible.  JunPyo was currently arguing that YiJeong had done an illegal move.  He wondered how Ilana was faring with JaeKyung.  No one was paying attention to him, so he took out his phone.

Jihoo:  Holding up, okay?

Ilana looked up from her phone to see the girls oohing over a dress that had a V cut not only down to the waist in front (covered by mesh) but also in back.  "Andwae Unnie!"  Ilana shuttered at the dress.  There was no way she'd be caught in something like that.

 - "Arraso, spoilsport, it's probably not you anyway.  It has to be worn with confidence.  What about this one?"  The dress was completely open in the back and the sides.

 - "Unnie!"

Ilana:  Ugh!  Now would be a great time for you guys to crash our party.

 - "Mwo!  Look how cute it looks from the front.  You would look hot!  Any namja would die to have you on their arm."

 - "Andwae!"

Jihoo had just had a turn, so he was free for a few minutes.

Jihoo:  That good?

Ilana saw his response.  "I'm going to go to the restroom, be right back."  Ilana knew she wouldn't be missed and if JaeKyung dared buy something while she was gone, she could always get Jihoo to send it back.  There was also WooBin, he seemed reasonable enough.  She hoped.  Ilana plopped herself on her bed.

Ilana:  Jeongmal they are driving me crazy.  The only good thing is that I can relax and pet Joy, while they go crazy picking out dresses I wouldn't wear even in the apartment. 

 - "Dude, it's your turn.  What are you doing?"  WooBin called.

 - "Ah, I was texting someone about a patient."  It wasn't entirely a lie, he was texting someone and Ilana was a patient.  He thought it was a good time to try and finish this game and therefore rescue Ilana from the girls.

 - "Ilana-yah!  We found one!"  Ilana heard JanDi yelling from the living room.

 - "Here we go again," she thought.

Ilana:  Wish me luck.

 - "This is it.  It's you," JaeKyung told Ilana when she stepped back into the living room.  "And," JaeKyung thought, "Jihoo won't be able to keep his eyes to himself; y and sweet all in one dress."

Ilana studied the dress; she had to admit it was appealing.  The tiered skirt was very much Ilana.  It had the illusion of a strapless sweetheart neckline but it was covered in a sleeveless mesh.  Then there was the back...  "Mullah Unnie, I'm not too keen on the back."  The back, although covered, was completely sheer mesh all the way down to the waist.

 - "Ilana-yah, you'll look so pretty in that dress."  Gaeul was a master at words, especially with her sweetness, she could guile anyone.  "You would look like a princess for the night."

 - "Deh, some sparkly hair jewelry would set it off nicely.  Come on, let’s raid your closet and see what accessories you have."  JaeKyung said.

 - "Not again," Ilana thought.  She sat on her bed, while the three girls looked through all her accessories.

 - "You don't need much."

 - "Ooh!"  Gaeul stumbled upon a treasure.  "The tiara and these silver strappy heels are perfect."

Ilana didn't even know why she owned those heels; she didn't remember ever wearing them.  They had to have been Gloria or Kike's idea, most likely.  "Guys!  It's pretty, but like I said before.  It's too much money for a one time deal."  This dress was only $900 vs. $1,200.

 - "Na would normally agree with you," JanDi said.  "Hajiman, na do think this dress is perfect."  She had stayed quiet because JaeKyung and Gaeul were the fashion experts, not her.  JanDi, like Ilana, preferred practical and comfort over the label her husband insisted on.

JaeKyung came up behind Ilana and covered her eyes.

 - "Unnie!  What are you doing?"

 - "Picture yourself in that dress, walking in on Jihoo's arm.  He's next to you entering the club with a black jacket over a white fitted shirt, no tie.  Possibly his top button is open, exposing his collarbone.  His looks can kill and then you're walking in with that Princess Kate half up hair-do, wearing a tiara and simple diamond studs.  You'll be simple, elegant and beautiful.  Not everyone can pull that off and you do it without trying.  You'll be the envy of every woman, while Jihoo every man."

 - "Hajima Unnie," Ilana could feel her cheeks warming up at the picture she was painting.  She heard Jani’s laugh.

 - "Unnie, she's blushing."

 - "Deh, na think she likes the idea," giggled Gaeul.

 - "Daeback, I'll call my personal shopper to hold it for you and we'll go get in the morning."

 - "Unnie!  It's not worth the expense for one day."  Her entire ensemble for JaeKyung's wedding had barely amounted to half the price of this one dress.

 - "Dancing with the prince and being a princess for a day is worth it.  Don't worry; I'll get you a discount."

Ilana sighed, there was no winning.  She either purchased the dress or JaeKyung would purchase it for her.  While JaeKyung and the other two ran back to the living room to call the store, Ilana sent another text.

Ilana:  I'm in trouble.

The F4 had finished their games, with WooBin and YiJeong being the ultimate winners.  Losing never sat well with JunPyo who was clamoring for a re-match.  Jihoo felt his phone vibrate and read Ilana's message.  He smiled as he typed and walked.

Jihoo:  How much?  Na will pay for it; Ilana is my date, after all.

 - "Why does everyone want to buy me things," she mumbled.

Ilana:  Anieyo!  Na can buy my own dress and I am not your date.  Your chingu-deul are making you take me.  There is a difference.

Jihoo felt a little uneasy about that statement.  Perhaps she didn't want to go with him.  Did she think he took her for granted?  Insecurity was beginning to plague him when usually he was extremely confident.  But of course, his track record with women wasn't the best.  It was the F4 curse.  For the most part, his friend’s wives had picked them, with JunPyo and JanDi being the exception.  He chased her until she relented.

Jihoo:  Arraso, we'll stay home if you'd rather not go.

Ilana was horrified at Jihoo's message.  WooBin would be hurt if Jihoo didn't go and it would be extremely rude of Ilana to turn down their gesture of friendship.  Not that she cared for such things but it was very kind of WooBin to include her.  Considering she was nobody, anyway.  Ilana never dwelled on the fact that she could be hobnobbing with all her generation's heirs and heiresses.  Ilana didn’t see herself as part of this group and that's how she liked it.

Ilana:  Anieyo!  Jihoo can't do that to WooBin.  Na guess I couldn't disappoint Unnie.  It won't be that bad, right?  Once we're in WooBin's VIP lounge, I'll be okay and then Jihoo can do or dance with whomever he wants.

 - "Chincha?"  Jihoo spoke out loud, not thinking.

 - "Something wrong, bro?"  WooBin eyed him suspiciously.  "Is it about that patient again?"

 - "Mmm," Jihoo didn't look up.

 - "Ilana-yah, who are you texting?"  Gaeul sat on the bed next to Ilana, startling her.

 - "Aish, Gaeul-ah, you startled me."

 - "Mianhae."

 - "I was just checking my messages really quick.  I'll be right in."

 - "Arraso."

Gaeul left and Ilana received another reply.

Jihoo:  The same does not apply to Ilana-yah.  Ilana is NAE date and NAE responsibility, you're stuck with me.

Ilana felt a little strange, her heart began to beat a little faster than it had seconds before.  Taking a deep breath, she replied.

Ilana:  Arraso, hajiman Jihoo is being overprotective Oppa again.

 - "Majayo (that's right)," he mumbled.

 - "Jihoo-yah, are you sure there's no problem?"

 - "Anieyo, let's check if the yeoja are done."  Jihoo walked out with a purpose, ahead of the others.  JunPyo, WooBin, and YiJeong all smiled knowingly at each other.

July 10, 2014

The week went by extremely slow.  Ilana found herself anticipating the Grand Opening.  She had been lonely this week as Jihoo was busy and not able to spend as much time with her.  Not only was he getting ready for his week away from the hospital but also had to lend a hand in the ER as a bad flu was going around.  A few more patients than usual were coming in with respiratory problems.  Quite often, Ilana had to go home alone.  She didn't understand why he was always on her mind and then there was that strange happy bubbling feeling every time she did see him.

 - "So, what are you wearing tonight?  You never told me.  Jaejoong insisted on picking out my dress but I have no idea what it looks like.  I'm a little nervous."  Abigaíl paused to see if Ilana noticed; which she didn't.   Ilana was just toying with her food and staring at a point behind Abigaíl.  "Chica?  Ilana?  Ilana Contreras!"  Finally, it looked like she'd broken through Ilana's mental haze.

Ilana turned to look at her.  "Mmm, I'm sorry, did you say something?"

 - "I've only been talking to you the entire lunchtime."

 - "I'm sorry!   I don't know why I've been so distracted lately."  Even her boss had made a comment.

Abigaíl was giving her a knowing smile.  "What!"  Ilana bristled at her friend’s I-know-something-you-don't look.

 - "Nada (nothing), chica."  Abigaíl thought her friend had the look of a woman in love.  "You'd better eat or I'm telling Jaejoong."

 - "Deh, Umma."  Ilana rolled her eyes and began to eat.  "By the way, now who’s on a first-name basis?"  Ilana had the satisfaction of seeing her friend blush.  "Kidding aside, I'm so happy for you and Isabel.  You really turned his head, heart, and everything."

Abigaíl smiled.  "I can't believe it still, really.  It just kind of snuck up on me.  One day he was everything I couldn't stand and the next he was changing and I was fighting my feelings for him.  So...what about you?  When will you find someone?  Is it true what Isabel says?  Does Dr. Jihoo like you?"

 - "What?!"  Ilana thought her heart was going to jump out of her chest from shock.

 - "Que se me hace que si y tú a el (something tells me he does and you him)."

 - "Chistosa (funny girl), just because you're in love, you think everyone around must be in love too.  Suzy did it to me and JaeKyung Unnie is also trying to set me and Jihoo up."  In the back of Ilana's mind, she heard their voices again and heart quickened.

"...Sarang."

"I need you..."

Abigaíl laughed.  "That's technically true but you guys are so close and you're both single.  I mean how long can you maintain a platonic relationship.  Both one or the other falls in love with someone else and then what happens to your friendship?"

Ilana shrugged her shoulders and busied herself with her food.  It's not that she didn't care about what Abigaíl had said.  She had already given it some thought; perhaps it was time to wean herself off Jihoo.  He was so much a part of her life that she would be very sad if someday he weren't and that would be very selfish of her.  He deserved to be loved with heart and body.  "It would...be selfish of me to think only of our friendship, I...would be very happy for him."  Ilana heard her voice shake slightly and her eyes want to tear up.  She hoped Abigaíl hadn't noticed.

 - "But wouldn't you feel like you lost your best friend?"

 - "I've already lost one best friend.  It's the price you pay when your best friend is of the opposite ."  Ilana sighed and tried to smile.  Pushing her plate away, "I'm really stuffed.  I'm going to touch base with JaeKyung Unnie before heading back, okay?"  JaeKyung had orchestrated to pick Ilana and Abigaíl up and take them to her house where she had a team of stylist and makeup artist coming over.

 - "You barely touched your food!"

 - "I've got a dress to fit into.  I'll see you back upstairs."  Ilana quickly grabbed her tray to throw in the trash and headed out the cafeteria doors before she really felt like crying.  Passing Dr. Jaejoong in the hallway, she only nodded her head and kept going.

 - "Yah!"  Jaejoong called her but she just kept going.

Once in the cafeteria, he spotted his favorite girl.  "Now, why is this radiant creature eating lunch alone?  It's dangerous.  Any guy can come and lose his heart and then what are you going to do?"

 - "Really?"  Abigaíl looked at him incredulously.

 - "I can't help it, you drive me crazy," he kissed her cheek and then toyed with her hand before kissing it as well.  "I crossed Ilana on the way in here, she looked upset.  She didn't even stop to say hello."

 - "Did she?"  Abigaíl thought for a moment.  "Is Dr. Jihoo seeing anyone?"

Jaejoong laughed.  "Of course not, he spends all his time with Ilana.  Wae?"

 - "I just asked her if Dr. Jihoo liked her and she brushed my question off.  But then I asked what were to happen if he did find someone, what would happen to their friendship?"

 - "What did she say?"

 - "She said she would be happy for him and it was the cost of having a best friend of the opposite .  You are bound to lose them one day."

 - "Aish, that girl.  Jihoo likes her, I'm telling you this as my future Anae and trust you won't say anything.  He loves her and she might just be repressing her feelings because of some traumatic event in her life.  You saw the smile she gave him when he got back."  Abigaíl nodded.  "I know he's working on getting her to really open up to him.  Enough to tell him what happened, how she was hurt so badly it traumatized her for the rest of her life."

Abigaíl took his hand.  "Thank you for telling me, I know in what direction to pray now."

 - "Where two or more are gathered - right?  If we're both praying for the same thing, God will answer our prayer, right?"

 - "We just have to be patient because he'll answer it in His time, not ours."

 - "Ah, I'm not good with the whole patience thing."

 - "Practice makes perfect."

 - "That it does," he had a mischievous glint in his eyes but it was gone as quickly as it came.  "I can't wait to see you in your new dress tonight."

 - "Can't you at least tell me what color it is?  I mean what about shoes and jewelry?"  He had told her not to bring anything.  It would all be taken care of.

 - "Gwenchana, your sister is bringing me your shoes and your jewelry."

 - "What?  You told her but not me?"

 - "Deh," he winked.  "I gotta go."  He pecked her lips.  "Practice makes perfect."  With that, he ran off before she could torture him into telling him.  He was counting down the hours before the big event tonight.

Abigaíl was left watching his annoying retreating form.  "Practice makes perfect," she mocked.  "Jerk."

JaeKyung had all of Abigaíl and Ilana's things delivered to her house and made sure the showers were stocked with their favorite body wash, shampoo and conditioner and any other items that would come in handy like lotion, shaving cream and razors.  Ilana thought Abigaíl was going to pass out when she saw the red dress and all the accessories Jaejoong and Luciana had picked out for her.  Mrs. Ha made sure they were fed dinner and rested upon their arrival.  After all, they'd gotten up early and been at work all day, she said.  And if her daughter had anything to say about it, they'd be dancing all night.

 - "Umma!"  JaeKyung complained at her Mother's teasing.  "It's not like I'm a taskmaster, they'll be having fun together."

Abigaíl and Ilana looked at each other and laughed.  Considering JaeKyung didn't really even know Abigaíl, she informed her that her dress would be sent to her house and would be picked up to get ready there.

JaeKyung's beauty team passed the three women from one to the other.  They were treated to manicure, pedicure, and skin treatments and of course hair do's.  Despite having risen early and been at work all day, Ilana and Abigaíl were refreshed by the time everything was set and done.  Jihoo and Jaejoong would be arriving soon, around nine.  The family driver would be taking JaeKyung, as WooBin had already been there for hours.  The other half of the F4 Just had to ride the elevator down from the penthouse.  Ilana looked at herself in the mirror once more and was nervous.  Her hair was exactly like she wore it for JaeKyung's wedding, her makeup was flawless, and she wore simple jewelry but wondered if Jihoo would think it too much.  Then there was the practically , what would he say to that?

 - "Ilana-yah, relax!  Wow, if you don't knock Jihoo dead tonight, they'll be plenty of guys wanting to take his place."

 - "Anieyo!  I'm not leaving Jihoo's side with no back."

 - "It's okay, really," Abigaíl reassured.  "It's only mesh but you're still covered, it's a beautiful dress and not in the least distasteful."

 - "Gracias, chica.  You look amazing in that dress."  Abigaíl wore the Versace JaeKyung had liked for her and her hair straightened with a deep part.   It had a V cut in front and back, simple gold earrings and chunky necklace enhanced the gold straps.  "You're going to make Dr. Jaejoong want to lock you away, just in case someone tries to steal you."

 - "Ilana, do you know how much this dress cost?  I mean isn't Versace expensive?"

 - "Don't worry about it the price.  Worry about your namja having his eyes locked on you the entire night, so make sure he doesn't fall while you two are dancing."

 - "You look gorgeous too, Unnie."  JaeKyung's dress was black with an embroidered top and flowing skirt.

 - "Anieyo!"  She waved Ilana's compliment aside.  "Now don't mind the reporters, just be yourselves."

 - "Reporters?!"  Both Ilana and Abigaíl shouted at once.

 - "Gwenchana, they won't bother you.  They didn't bother you at my wedding, right?"

There was a knock on the door.  "JaeKyung-ssi, the namja have arrived."

- "I'll run down first."  JaeKyung was grabbing her purse and handing Ilana and Abigaíl theirs.

JaeKyung ran downstairs as fast as her heels could take her, instructing her two protégé’s to stay just out of view until called. "Wau, jalsaenggin (handsome)!"

 - "JaeKyung-ah is yippeun as always.  "Are the yeoja ready?"

 - "Ah, deh but are you ready?"

 - "JaeKyung-ah!  You're keeping nae angel from me."

 - "Anieyo!  Arraso, since you're complaining the loudest, without further ado, I present to you Abigaíl Garcia, 27 years old, blood type A, and is wearing a red bias cut Versace."

Ilana and Abigaíl grinned at each other before Abigaíl made her way downstairs.

 - "Wau!  Omo!" Jaejoong began as Abigaíl made her presence.  "Ah, mianhae agassi, yippeun you may be but I'm spoken for."

 - "Very funny!"  Abigaíl socked his arm.

 - "Ah, wau, nae angel is nomu yeppeun.  Mianhae JaeKyung-ssi, we cannot attend tonight.  I can't risk someone trying to steal her."

 - "Will you stop already?!"

 - "Na can't help it, you’re so cute!"

 - "Jihoo has been waiting patiently, you two."  Jaejoong was already moving in for a kiss but JaeKyung stopped him.  "Don't mess up her lipstick!"

 - "Aish!  JaeKyung-ah!"  Jaejoong scowled but JaeKyung ignored him.

 - "Now, I present to you, Ilana Contreras, 27 years old, blood type AB, wearing Milly, white Clara Aztec tiered dress."

Ilana took a deep breath, hoping she didn't fall and made her way down.  She avoided looking at Jihoo, too afraid to see his reaction.

Jihoo's eyes quickly widened as far as they would go and he felt his mouth open in surprise before catching himself and schooling his face back to his normal blank expression.  She was a vision of loveliness in his opinion.  Her natural beauty was enhanced by the professional hair and makeup and the dress gave her a certain allure that would turn any man's head.  "Yippeun (pretty)," he said carefully, not trying to sound like he had been completely mesmerized just seconds before.  "Nomu areumdawoyo (very beautiful)."

 - "Alright!  I'll be leaving first.  See you guys there!"  JaeKyung excused herself and left.

 - "Arraso, we're right behind you," JaeJoong said.

 - "Nado," Jihoo took Ilana's arm.  She hadn't looked up at him, still a bit nervous, only to be made more so when she heard him intake a breath at the sight of her practically back.  "Ilana is not allowed out of my sight tonight," he whispered before leading them to the car.

Arriving at the Shinwa hotel, reporters were already interviewing WooBin and JaeKyung, celebrities, and other wealthy patrons were already lined up to party until the dawn, while the Gu couple and So couple were already standing next to WooBin and JaeKyung.  Jihoo and Ilana made their way onto the red carpet first.  Ilana kept her composure, she knew how this worked.  She walked straight ahead arm in arm with Jihoo, not making eye contact with the cameras.  Abigaíl walked nervously with Jaejoong, they were afforded the special privilege of being guests of the F4 for the evening.  He smiled for the cameras, being a natural born ham.

WooBin afforded the ribbon cutting to JunPyo since it was his hotel.  Everyone cheered, the F4 family and special guests entered first, then bouncers took to their stations checking invitations and collecting door fees.

 - "So, this is it guys, what do you think?  Ilana-yah, this is your sketches come to life."

Jihoo smiled down at her, he couldn't be more proud.  The club looked like it stepped out of a Frank Sinatra movie but with a modern twist.  Rich mahogany and gold-trimmed booths along the wall with beveled mirrors all around.  Cocktail tables all covered with white tablecloths.  Checkerboard tile and the ceiling had tiny lights built in to make it look like a starlit night.  The club was of a class all its own, hence the hefty fees, which WooBin was confident he would get thanks to the research Ilana had done for him.

 - "Chukahae," Jihoo pecked Ilana on the cheek.

 - "Anieyo!"  Ilana said, not wanting to make a big deal.

 - "Chica, What are they talking about?"

 - "Nothing, I just used my marketing degree and called in a favor."

 - "Oh!  I remember you were working on a project for a friend.  Wow!  Ilana, you're in the wrong field."

 - "I'm exactly where I want to be."

Jihoo leaned close to her, "Na choayo that this is where Ilana wants to be."  Ilana looked up to try and gauge what he meant but of course, he was already wearing his poker face.

 - "Ready to head up to the VIP lounge?  Other than my office and the kitchen, this is it.  A very simple design but it appears to be going over well with the guests and soon to be members."  WooBin would be treating Club Eden as if it were a country club, you still had to pay for everything but you couldn't walk in the door without having a membership.

The VIP room looked over the main dance floor and the sliding windows could be closed to block out all the noise.  It had a more modern feel to it, with oversized leather chairs and ottomans.  A bar ran along the length of the window, where you could sit on a stool and look out to the dancing.  "Your friend Uee is set to start around eleven and finish around twelve.  Block B will follow around one fifteen and go until two-thirty.  They are getting paid well to delay their trip home from last week's concert in Westbury."

The women all hugged each other and gushed over their choice of wardrobe.  There was an array of food and drinks laid out.  Jihoo had already claimed two cozy seats for Ilana and him; he had a plate of food in one hand and dragged Ilana to the seats with the other.  "Eat, I've been so busy this week and have not been around to look after you.  Ilana has lost weight."  The dress fit her as it should, a little too well but her face was thinner.

 - "Overprotective Oppa, have not.  The dress fits the same today as when I tried it on in the store."  This was a blatant lie, Ilana could feel the dress was just a smidgen looser but unnoticeable to anyone but the wearer.

Jihoo cupped her cheek, "then why does your face look thinner?"

Ilana felt a strange sensation at his touch; it warmed her entire body from her face to her toes.  Which was odd because she didn’t even know she was cold?  Taking his hand from her face, albeit reluctantly.  Not knowing why she felt her heart beating in her chest, she ignored it and smiled.  "Tch, overprotective Oppa, you’re not feeding me and you don't eat either.  Look, I can count your ribs."  Jihoo's jacket was open and before Ilana knew what she was doing, she reached in to run a hand along his side.

It was Jihoo's turn to feel warmth spread through his entire side.  He saw her jump back in surprise.  Belatedly, he heard himself take in a breath, could that have startled her?  "Ilana-yah," he caught her in his gaze and although she wanted to look away, she couldn't.  "Do you want to engage in a tickle fight here in the club?"

 - "Anieyo!"  Ilana hurriedly got up to talk with the other ladies.

 - "Ilana-yah, why are you blushing?"  Gaeul scrutinized her.

 - "I'm not.  It's a little warm up here, isn't it?"

 - "I can feel the air conditioner through my jacket," Jaejoong teased.  "There is a flu going around, you’re not sick are you?"

Ilana was getting redder by the minute.  Her mind was too busy trying to figure out why she felt so strange, to realize why everyone was teasing her.

Jihoo had ordered a vodka on the rocks to cool himself off when YiJeong and WooBin joined him.  "Yah, what did you do to Ilana?"  YiJeong asked while WooBin put an arm around his shoulders.

 - "Anieyo," Jihoo grinned.  "She did it all herself."

 - "Na understand wae the Yeoja hesitates but bro, she's more head over heels for you every day.  Anyone can see that," WooBin said.

 - "What are you waiting for?  Just confess already."

 - "Anieyo, it's not time.  Ilana can't fully trust that I won't hurt her.  She's almost there but l haven't overcome for her first instinct of fear and distrust."

JunPyo came over and groaned at what his friend had just said.  "Yah, how long are you going to keep us waiting?"

 - "Yah JunPyo, he's not confessing to you," WooBin joked.

 - "Tch, I gave her eight free nights at my hotels, she owes me."  This made everyone laugh, including Jihoo.

 - "Don't you think you're trying to charge her more than what she would have paid?"

 - "Anieyo, free lodging for the honor of being my best friend's wife.  I think it's a fair trade."

Ilana glanced over to the guys who were laughing and pounding each other’s back and smiled.  "Jihoo isn't going anywhere," JaeKyung caught Ilana by surprise.  "Your friend’s group is starting, kaja."  Ilana was getting dragged downstairs, whether she wanted to or not.

Everyone had been enjoying themselves dancing along to Uee's group.  Abigaíl and Ilana still had trouble believing their friend become a seductress, given a microphone and a stage, when she was usually almost considered a tomboy.  Their show was almost over when Uee began to speak.  "Kansamnida for allowing us to start your night off with our music.  We hope to be able to see you all again sometime, so put in a good word for our group with Song WooBin-ssi, juseyo."  Everyone clapped and cheered appreciatively.  "We would like to end our show with a song for a special couple.  Kim Jaejoong Uissa and Abigaíl García, raise your hands!"  The F4 family began to clap and move away from the couple.  Little did Abigaíl know her boyfriend, Uee and WooBin had orchestrated the entire thing.  The spotlight was now focused on them.  Jaejoong was grinning like a mischievous schoolboy and Abigaíl couldn't be more embarrassed.  "The song is called 'Yes, No, Yes."

I’m dreaming you all night long.  You’re driving me crazy, baby...

Jaejoong pulled Abigaíl close and began to dance, not letting her escape even if she wanted to.

...Hey, listen up.  At the last moment, I make it to the Border Line.  I should know that I can’t cross it.  But when I realize it, I’m in love.  It’s a danger zone beyond this point (If I go at last, I can’t ever get back).  But…I already know, I am yours.

The song was coming to an end...

Those lips, those lips, those lips…What do they mean, mean?  That touch, that touch, that touch…What does it mean, mean?  Those last seconds were so lovely that it scares me.  Those eyes, those eyes, those eyes…The answer is…

Jaejoong didn't finish the song, he stopped and thread a hand in Abigail’s hair and kissed her eyes slowly, then her cheek close to her ear, before teasing her lips, nipping at them.  He so slowly at first and then drank them in before tasting her tongue with his.

The only thing keeping Abigaíl upright, she thought, was his hand in her hair.  At some time she had wrapped her arms around his neck to keep herself from sliding in a puddle to the floor.  This was the first time he had kissed her with such complete abandon and possessiveness.  Everyone's clapping and cheers came back to their hearing, now fully aware of their surroundings.  "Those lips, those lips, those damn lips." He winked at her.  Abigaíl mortified buried her head in his chest.

 - "Wau!  Jaejoong Oppa is a good kisser, right?"  Uee teased the crowd.  Abigaíl thought she would very much like to pull her co-worker by the hair.  "This is where we say, annyeong, good night New York!"  She waited for the clapping to die down.  "But...before Block B finishes your night, Jaejoong Oppa has something to say."  The members of the group all filed out, while Uee handed the handheld mic to Jaejoong.  "Jaejoong Oppa, fighting!"

Abigaíl looked up and gave Uee a death glare.  "I'm going to kill you, YuJin."

Uee laughed, before walking away.  With his free hand, Jaejoong took Abigail’s and as if on cue, music began to play.  (Music)

I dream of a love I haven’t dreamed of before

Jaejoong began to sing softly to his love.

I’m like a fool

Abigaíl, whose face was as red as her dress, glared at him.  "Yes, you are, Kim Jaejoong."

Those should be just feelings that grew naturally

I cry by myself

Jaejoong gave her a pouty face, earning 'aww's' from the crowd.  Smiling he continued, getting bolder.

Your broad shoulders and brown eyes, cause me to have feelings for you

I look shabby because of my ugly looks...

Abigaíl lost some of her shell shock and laughed.  Jaejoong continued singing and Abigaíl found herself fighting back tears.  This man drove her crazy.  He was continually surprising her with his sweetness.  No one had ever treated her the way he did.  He was over the top and crazy but what could she do?  This man had completely stolen her heart.  All she could do is thank God for this sweet gift she was given.

...even if you say those feelings of me fallen in love is extravagance

I'll still be here

Yes! You saved my life Yes! You lived my life

Oh-Yes! You saved my life, marry me, angel?

If I’m here with you, now is good.

If I’m here with you, now is good.

Thunderous cheers arose all around even though Abigaíl was still trying to figure if she had heard right.  Someone unseen had taken the microphone away.  Jaejoong still had her hand and was holding something shiny in the other hand.  The crowd was chanting, "say yes!  Say yes!"

Jaejoong held his hand up to try and get some quiet.  "Abigaíl you did save my life and all is good when you are with me.  The interweaving bands on this ring are our journey together leading up to and beyond the altar.  What's your answer, my Angel?"

 - "Yes," Abigaíl whispered and nodded.  She couldn't get her voice any louder. He slipped the ring on her finger and breathing a sigh of relief he held her tight.

 - "Kiss!  Kiss!  Kiss!"  Everyone shouted and they obliged.

The F4 seemed to be screaming the loudest and Ilana right along with them.  She was jumping up and down, so excited for her friend, not even noticing she had a death grip on Jihoo's hand.

 - "Yah, come up for air, will you?"  WooBin had made his way on stage.  The couple broke apart and Abigaíl covered her face with her hands.  Jaejoong took her hands away and pecked her lips once more before leading her back to the VIP lounge. "Chukahehyo Jaejoong and Abigaíl.  We'll look forward to being invited to the wedding.  Arraseo, let's do some dancing while we wait for Block B to be ready."

Jihoo finally felt the blood returning to his hand as Ilana let go to clap.  "Hana, dol, set," he counted and was rewarded when Ilana's eyes popped out of her head.

 - "Omo!"  Ilana looked at Jihoo's hand.  "Mianhae!  Omo!"

He grinned at her, tempted to pretend he was in pain.  "Gwenchana, it's fortunate I'm not primarily a surgeon."  He teased, instead.

 - "Sorry!  Oh, I'm just going to go hug Abigaíl."  Ilana took a step trying to get away but Jihoo grabbed her hand.

 - "Anieyo, Ilana can do that later.  Dance with me." He didn't give her a chance to say no, before placing his hand on her waist.  "Gwenchana, let it go," he chuckled.  "Ilana-yah and I are better chingu than that."  This didn't help, Ilana's face reddened even more and she still refused to make eye contact with him.  "Ah, what to do, Ilana-yah won't look at me.  Mmm, I know what...," Ilana looked up too late; he was already pushing her into a spin.

Ilana gasped, although completely letting him lead, she was not ready for a spin.  As was meant to happen, she didn't finish the spin before stumbling and ending up just an inch away from Jihoo's collarbone.  To her dismay, she realized his shirt was open just like JaeKyung had told her to imagine.  She'd been too nervous over her own attire to dwell on his.  Blushing furiously, she managed to swallow and tear her gaze from the end of the V where his open shirt exposed some of his chest.  Looking up, he was grinning widely.  "Mean Oppa!"  She pouted.

 - "Ah, when will Ilana realize, you look absolutely adorable when you're angry."

 - "Pabo!"  She slapped his arm with her free hand.

 - "Jeongmal, does Ilana know she looks like a princess tonight?  Nomu yippeun."

Ilana was waiting for him to laugh but he didn't.  In fact, he wasn't even smiling, he was staring at her intently and she couldn't look away.  She felt as if she were shrinking before his eyes.  Soon, she'd be so tiny; he'd pick her up and put her in his shirt pocket, next to his heart.  "Wait," she thought.  "Where did that come from?"  Ilana felt dizzy and her step faltered, at least she was able to break eye contact.  That at least was a relief.

Jihoo felt her take a misstep and drew her in tighter.  His heart was pounding but he didn't care.

"...she's more head over heels for you every day," WooBin had said.

Well, so was he.  Had she not stumbled, he would've bent and kissed her - not on the cheek.  It wasn't the first time, he'd had this urge but it certainly was getting stronger.  He needed for her to tell him everything soon or he'd have to confess just as they were.

 - "Jihoo-yah is making fun of me."  Ilana finally got her head back on straight.

 - "Anieyo," he took her chin.  When she looked up at him, he bent and kissed her cheek.  She smiled up at him, with that shy smile of hers.  "Ilana-yah...was so happy for Abigaíl and Jaejoong."

Grateful he had turned the conversation off her, "Deh!  She and Isabel finally have their Prince.  I can think of no one more deserving than Abigaíl to be the receiver of true love."

 - "What about Ilana?  Aren't you deserving of true love, a Prince?"

Ilana looked away before he saw her eyes get glossy with unshed tears.  Composing herself, she smiled as boldly as possible and looked at him.  "Well, my Shy Prince is in the military, perhaps Jihoo could be my Prince."  She saw his eyes widen and laughed.  "Temporarily, until you meet your true Princess.  What was Jihoo thinking, hmm?"

 - "Mmm, na think that can be arranged," he said.  "Just don't be surprised if I refuse to find another Princess.  Ilana told me not to let go and l intend not to."

She looked up to him, trying to gauge his thoughts.  It was as if he had more to say on the subject but he had not said another word after 'that can be arranged'.

They remained quiet again.  Block B would be on soon.  While still lost in thoughts, Kim Hyun Joong’s 'Love' began to play.  Ilana looked at Jihoo and smiled, he knew that song had become one of her favorites.  "Ara, Princess, it's your favorite."  He drew her closer and nestled her head against him.  With her three-inch heels, she fit just under his chin and just above that point on his shirt.  He felet her hesitate at first but he wouldn't let her go.  He just swayed her back and forth to the music.

Ilana's heart was content to feel secure in the warmth of his friendship.  She closed her eyes thinking of the lyrics to the song.  How wonderful for someone to have that kind of love.  Where the one becomes everything for you, so they can breathe inside your heart.  To become as one and feel each other’s sadness and lift each other up.  To love forever.  "How wonderful would that be?" She mouthed.  Then it hit her.  There was a similarity in her words to Jihoo as those of YoungSaeng to her.  Wave after wave of thoughts crashed against her heart

"The love of your life could be the next one that knocks on your door."

 - "Or even two doors down," she thought.

"Que se me hace que si y tú a el (something tells me he does and you him)."

Yes, Ilana realized she didn't want him to find another Princess.  She would be more than just sad.

"I need you."

She did.  "Goodness, I do need him, more than I've ever needed anyone."  The song came to an end and Ilana was crying.  Not just misty over the song but full tears.  Jihoo's hand came out of nowhere, lifting her face and then she heard his voice again.

 - "Sarang," he dabbed her face with his handkerchief.  "What is it, what's wrong?"

This wasn't a dream, he said it.  He really said it.  She had seen his lips move.  She shook her head trying to indicate everything was fine.

 - "Jeongmal?"

 - "Deh!"  She took his hand from her face and tried to smile.  "Jihoo knows this song makes me emotional."

He gave her the 'not like this' look.

 - "I'll go fix my makeup, so I don't frighten you," she smiled over bubbly.  "Meet you back upstairs, arraso?"  She ran off, before he could say anything more.

WooBin was still on the main floor speaking to Block B's manager when he saw Ilana run off.  He excused himself when he saw Jihoo walking his way.  "Yah, Jihoo-yah.  Ilana just passed by, it looked like she was crying."

 - "Mmm, she got emotional from the song."

 - "Jihoo doesn't think that's true."  WooBin, in some ways, was better at reading Jihoo than even JanDi was.

Jihoo shook his head.  "Not only that but I think I called her Sarang."

 - "Bro!  What are you going to tell her?"

 - "Mollah, I can pretend she didn't hear but I'm certain she did.  There was something in her look and then she ran off."

Ilana arrived at the safety of the bathrooms.  Locking herself in a stall, she took several deep breathes.  "What am I supposed to do?  I can't give in to these feelings."  Shaking and dizzy, she sat on the toilet seat.  "You are not normal," she told herself.   But what was she supposed to do?  Could she love from afar?  How long would she last?  YoungSaeng had given up after almost a year and a half.  Could she last longer than that?  "I have too, until he meets someone better."  She’d have to endure the pain when that time came.  She’d certainly endured worse or so she thought.

"Sarang..."

 - “Pabo, surely he didn't mean it that way.  He only sees you as a dongsaeng."  Firming her resolve, she left her hideout and began to repair the damages to her face.

Arraso, chingu-deul.  Things are picking up speed. 

Ping, it was a pleasure having lunch with you.  We'll have to do it again sometime. ;)  Ke ke ke

MiNigo and AngelMano, I beat you.  Nany, nany, nany.