Juan Carlos sat with his wife at breakfast, before heading to the hospital.  His boys were still sleeping, enjoying their summer vacation.

 - "Juan Carlos, te esperaremos para cenar a la noche (should we wait to have dinner with you tonight)?"  His wife Gloria had sat two plates of ham and eggs on the table before sitting down herself.

 - "No lo sé, cariño (I don't know, dear).  Hemos estado ocupadísimos y si mis empleados no pueden salir a tiempo, no es justo que yo me vaya temprano a la casa (We've been extremely busy and if my staff isn't able to leave on time, it's not fair if I leave early for home)."

 - "Lo entiendo, no te preocupes, es el precio de ser esposa de doctor (I understand, don't worry, it’s the price of being a Dr.’s wife)."

 - "Igual ser esposo de enfermera (It's the same being the husband of a nurse)."

 - "No es cierto, solo me dejas trabajar dos días a la semana (That's not true, you only let me work two days a week)!"  Gloria complained.  A phone beeped on the kitchen counter.  "Ya te buscan (they're looking for you already)."  She handed the phone to her husband.

Juan Carlos opened his text message with a frown on his face.

Detective:  I came across, this and I thought you'd like to see it.

Opening the link, it was an article on a new nightclub in New York.  The picture attached showed a group of people.  The group included his cousin arm in arm with a man.  "Estúpida chamaca (stupid girl)!  Se supone que quería trabajar (supposedly she wanted to work), no andar de princesa anónima (not walk around like some anonymous princess)."  The media (thanks to WooBin and JaeKyung) only referred to Ilana as IC."

 - "Juan Carlos, que pasa (What’s wrong)?!"  Gloria took the phone from her husband.  "Que bella y que guapo chambelán (how pretty and what a handsome ).   Crees que son novios (Do you think they're dating)?"

 - "Gloria por favor, mi prima no tiene ningún negocio andar de novia, no con su enfermedad y su pasado tiznado (Gloria please, my cousin has no business dating.  Not with her illness or her tainted past)."

 - "Su enfermedad es controlable (Her illness is controllable).  Mira que hermosa luce y su sonrisa tan Linda (Look how beautiful she looks and such a sweet smile).  Y como te atreves culpar a la víctima (And how dare you blame the victim)?"

 - "No la culpo (I don't blame her), solo que ella se lo busco (it's just that she went looking for trouble)."

Gloria was going to strangle her husband any minute.  "Déjala ser feliz (let her be happy).  Por eso huyó de aquí, para poder reconstruir su vida en paz (That's why she ran away from here, so she could rebuild her life in peace)."

 - "No sabe nada de la vida (she knows nothing about life), así es como se vio secuestrada (that's how she got herself kidnapped)."

 - "Jesús murió en el crucifijo para nuestros pecados (Jesus died on the cross for our sins), pero tú diario has crucificado Ilana los últimos diez años (but you've daily crucified Ilana these last ten years)."  Gloria got up from the table and left her husband alone with his temper.

 - "Prometí en la tumba de sus papás protegerla (I promised on her parents grave to protect her)!"  The self-righteousness of his noble cause didn't allow him to see his errors.  Frustrated he also left the table.  Ilana was the only reason he and his wife ever argued.  If it weren't for her, he would've had gotten a court order to bring her home on the grounds of mental instability and a danger to herself.  "Ya me voy (I'm leaving now)!  Te amo (I love you)!"  He'd bring flowers on his return home.

Gloria sighed when she heard the kitchen door close.  She really hoped Ilana had found a way to live again.  Her friends, JungMin and Suzy, would be arriving in just over a week.  She couldn't wait to meet the girl and ask her all about Ilana.

It was seven A.M. and Jihoo could no longer sleep if his life depended on it.  Ilana had not sent him a single text this week.  He also hadn't contacted her, wanting her to do so first.  He had no idea why he had decided this but she seemed different when he saw her last.

"I'm leaving you WooBin and JaeKyung, again.  They'll keep Ilana out of trouble for the week."

 "Ara," she smiled sadly.

"Yah, miss me already?"

Ilana remained quiet for a minute and chuckled.  "If Na said yes, would Jihoo stay?"

"Mworago?"

"Anieyo!  I'm joking."

"Oh, what if I did stay?"  He said half-joking and half-serious.

"Ah, Jihoo-yah is making fun of me.  Harabeoji would not like me if I kept you from your duties."

He had laughed with her, but he really meant it.  If she had really asked him to stay, he would find a way.  Grabbing his phone, he broke down and sent her a text.

Clad in a pair of shorts and loose cotton shirt, Ilana sat on her patio and closed her eyes.  It had been a long week.  Sure, it had been exciting.  Abigaíl didn't want to be presumptuous and show off her ring.  She was more than happy but didn't want to draw negative attention to herself and Dr. Jaejoong.  After all, she was his admin and loose tongues talked.  She wasn't hiding it, a 2-carat diamond wasn’t easy to hide but she didn't want to flaunt it.  The headlines of ‘New York’s Casanova Captured’ were more than enough attention.  WooBin had offered Uee's group a permanent slot on Friday and Saturday nights for a year.  Then there was Ilana, with Jihoo's absence, reports due, and her head in the clouds she kept making mistakes.  This, in turn, made her stress out.  She couldn't eat or sleep.  This made her stress more because Jihoo was going to scold her if she lost weight.  At least JaeKyung had stopped by a few times to distract her.  WooBin and she wanted Ilana to go with them to Club Eden tonight but declined politely due to being tired.

 - "Tired shmired, Ilana doesn't want to go because Jihoo isn't here."

"Anieyo, Unnie, it's been such a long week."

 "Aww, just for a little while?  We can have one of our guards dance with us if you feel awkward about not having a date."

 "Another time, Unnie, chincha."

 "Arraso, get some rest and eat.  If Jihoo finds out you're stressed, we're all going to be in trouble."

"Majayo," Ilana laughed.

Deciding she'd better warm up some food before she really did get in trouble, she headed back indoors.  Her phone was beeping on the dining room table where she had left it.  It was a message and Ilana smiled from ear to ear as she opened it.

Jihoo:  Na admin has either forgotten about me or is up to no good.  If you've been behaving, come by the office on Sunday around 1 and we can grab lunch and go to the park.  If not...

Ilana sighed, how she was supposed to not have these crazy feelings for him when he was always there for her, she didn’t know.  Then she felt guilty because YoungSaeng had always been there too but this felt so different.  Plus, she knew YoungSaeng had feelings for her and that was suffocating.  She couldn't give him what he wanted.  Jihoo, on the other hand, she was pretty sure, only cared for her as a friend or even a mascot.  This made her laugh at herself.  She could be free to love him in her own way, without pressure.  She could enjoy his hugs and affection freely.

Smiling, she replied to the text.

Ilana:  Arraso, but I'm buying dessert.

Ilana figured she needed to make up for some missing calories.  Her stomach growled and Joy, who had been sleeping on the couch, perked her ears up.  "Joy-ah, Yoon Jihoo Ajussi is making me crazy.  I've had no appetite, he sends me a text and now I'm starving?"  Joy looked at her and yawned.  She had no problem eating or sleeping.  "Must be nice."  Ilana walked into the kitchen to warm up food.

Jihoo was about to get up and make Harabeoji breakfast when he received Ilana's reply.

Jihoo:  I'm looking forward to it.

Thinking about a picnic in the English Garden, he went out to the kitchen to find Harabeoji already awake.  "Harabeoji, na wanted to make breakfast for you this morning."

 - "KyuJong is returning home today, Na wanted to send him off with a meal for his family."

Jihoo grinned, "na wanted to take him to lunch."

 - "Deh, he's been a good addition to our team.  It is a shame to see him go.  He knows he's welcome to return after he serves his duty."

 - "If he says he will, he's the type to keep his word."  Jihoo too was sorry to see KyuJong go.  He'd only spoken to the man a few times but he always listened so intently, that it was easy to keep talking about anything and everything.

 - "Deh, he is."

Grandfather and Grandson tinkered in the kitchen until a potato stew was done.  Having served themselves, they stored the rest in a container for KyuJong.  "Ask Ilana-yah on your return when she'll visit this old man again."

 - "Deh, Harabeoji, but she only has a few days vacation remaining until her year is up."

 - "The child is hardworking."

Jihoo smiled.  "She's also stubborn."

 - "So is SeoHyun, JanDi, and you."

 - "Na take after Harabeoji."  Jihoo knew what his Grandfather was saying.  He was stubborn enough to get what he wanted.  This was true but would he be able to have all of what he wanted?  Ilana's trust and her love?  Sometimes he feared he could only have one or the other and he'd be waiting stubbornly for another impossible dream.  "She had another attack, Harabeoji."

 - "Aigoo, what brought it on."

 - "Mollah?  Whatever it is, it is so frightening, she'd rather hurt herself than tell me about it."

 - "She fears you won't understand or perhaps judge her according to her fear."

 - "I wouldn't do that and she knows it."

 - "Anieyo, she doesn't and she's not willing to take the risk.  Be patient."

 - "Deh Harabeoji, Na won't let her go, even if it kills me."

 - "Yah, don't get killed before giving me a great-grandchild."  

Jihoo said nothing and just chuckled at his Grandfather's one-track mind.

Hours later they had wrapped up Lunch with KyuJong at the now very popular juk shop.  "Ah, I'm going to miss this place," KyuJong said, tasting the last spoonful of his abalone porridge.  He'd been introduced to the place by JanDi and Harabeoji as they frequented it several times a week.

 - "Na will have JanDi send you some if you are stationed close by."

 - "Anieyo, Harabeoji, Na can wait two years."  It was still weird calling an ex-president of Korea 'Grandfather' but he insisted on it and everyone else did as well.

Jihoo handed KyuJong an envelope.  "What is this?"

 - "A gift."

 - "Kansamnida but I cannot accept."

 - "Deh," Harabeoji insisted.

 - "Hajiman you've been more than generous already."

 - "This is security for your return," Jihoo said.  "Harabeoji and I have discussed it.  JanDi was more than pleased with your assistance and the patients also had very good things to say.  Increase your skills on the military's time and won and come back to us ready to head up the running of the clinics."

 - "Jeongmal?  Hajiman what about Yoon Jihoo Uissanim and Guam JanDi Uissanim?"

 - "Naega only here one week a month.  There are things that come up in between, as you know."

 - "Deh," Harabeoji agreed.  "Na Grandson should come home and take care of this old man and not worry so much about the foundation."

 - "Yah," Jihoo said.  "This old man is going to live longer than KyuJong Uissa and I combined.  As you probably know, JanDi's nampyon will never agree to her taking on such a responsibility."

 - "Kansamnida, you've given me a great honor."

 - "Naega going to see the chef before we leave."  Harabeoji stood from the table and so did Jihoo and KyuJong.

 - "How do you feel?"  Jihoo asked.

 - "Like I'm leaving home for the first time all over again, except this time, I'll already have friends where I’m going.  Also, old friends are sending me off.  Park JungMin and Bae Suzy will be seeing me off at the training center before leaving for California later that day.  We all left home to seek new adventures and it seems like we all came back home to do the same.  It's been a pleasure getting to know Jihoo Uissanim and Harabeoji."  KyuJong extended a hand to Jihoo.

 - "I didn't know your friends were going to California?"  Jihoo took KyuJong's hand.  "Ah, and make sure KyuJong Uissa sends Ilana his picture with a shaved head."

KyuJong laughed.  "Ah, agassi wants to make fun of me.  Deh, they will be working with some of Ilana's family and living in her home.  It was a great opportunity and they couldn't pass it up.  I'll make sure I send Ilana her picture and scold her for the care package.  As if I couldn't get my own things, she made Jihoo Uissanim do it."  Ilana had given Jihoo money to buy basic necessities that KyuJong would need:  toiletries, underwear, and cologne amongst other things.

 - "Uissa knows his dongsaeng and how stubborn she is.  Na would not be able to show my face in New York if I didn't do as she asked."

 - "Majayo (that's true)!  Take care of her," KyuJong sighed.  "She's a jagiya, but will never believe it if you told her."

 - "Deh she is, Na plan to take care of her always."

KyuJong raised an eyebrow and smiled.  "Does Ilana know this?"

 - "Anieyo, it's not time yet."

 - "Algesubnida, at least, if she didn't accept Na chingu, I pray she accepts you.  Na can see your devotion to her as well as her trust in you.  Na will look forward to hearing good news soon."

 - "She doesn't trust me enough yet."

 - "Be there at the right time and all will be revealed."

 - "Arraso, enjoy these days with your family, keep in touch.  If you need anything contact any of us."

 - "Deh."

The two Doctors walked out of the restaurant and Harabeoji caught up with them.  "Horangi-egeh mool-ryeo-gado jeong-shin-man chari-myeon sanda (Literal meaning: Even if you are cornered by a tiger, if you keep your cool, you can survive)."

 - "Kansamnida," KyuJong bowed deeply and left.

Jihoo dressed and breakfasted.  For the first time, it felt like He was really coming home.  He had a purpose in being in New York and that was his stubborn admin.  He didn't know when he went from having a clinical interest in her to actually falling in love.  It came on so gradually, he was in love before he knew it.  He was looking forward to spending the afternoon with her.

A few hours later

Ilana dressed in a pair of capris and a sleeveless shirt.  She gathered her hair in a side ponytail and applied a little powder and lip-gloss.  Her heart was beating so fast, she had to take a few deep breaths to slow it down.  "Joy-ah, I need to get a grip or Ajussi is going to suspect something is up.  Things haven't changed.  Whatever my regard for him, he's still my very good friend, right?"  The cat didn't bother to look up; she remained sleeping on the couch.  "Yah, goyangi is a big help."  Ilana scratched the kitten's ears and Joy rolled over so that Ilana's scratches moved to a different spot.  "Majayo, you stay just the way you are, sweet and innocent.  Umma will protect you.  You'll never have to worry about anything."  Ilana bent, giving the kitten a kiss on the head.  Joy shook her head, making Ilana laugh.  "I'm going to see Ajussi now, be good."

Jihoo showered and changed after checking on some of his most urgent cases and before returning to his office.  His administrative work had hardly been touched; Ilana had spoiled him over these months.  She must not have had time to get to it.  He was up to his eyebrows in spreadsheets when there was a knock on the door.

Union City, NJ

 - "We should have the wedding on September 28."  The Garcia family had arrived from Church with their new future son-in-law in tow.  They were just setting up for lunch and Jaejoong and Abigaíl were already arguing over wedding details.

 - "What?  You can't put a wedding together in two months?"

 - "Says who?"

 - "That's the day after my birthday!"  Isabel stopped pestering her cousin long enough to join the discussion.

 - "Deh, jagiya, Na met your family for the first time at your party.  Do you mind if we celebrate your birthday at the wedding?"

 - "Deh!  That's daeback!  Nathan, that's cool, right?  I get to have my birthday at Umma and Appa's wedding."  Isabel's older cousin by two years could really care less.  He just shrugged his shoulders and went back to playing on his Dad's phone.

Abigaíl was glaring at her fiancé.  She had a feeling between him and her daughter she wouldn't get much say in the wedding.  "Anything else you've already decided on?"

 - "Deh, we can have it at Jane's Carousel."

 - "Daeback Dr. Prince!"

Abigaíl smiled remembering their outing to the carousel.  He wasn't just driving her crazy, she realized.

Jaejoong realized Abigaíl hadn't said anything and was now staring at him.  "Anae?  Why are you staring at me?"

 - "How did I...?"  Abigaíl shook her head.  "Where were you all these years?"

Jaejoong laughed and caressed her face.  "Jagiya should know the answer to that better than me.  The Lord was just letting me get so sick of my life that I'd want so badly to be a part of yours."  He ran his thumb across her lips.

 - "You guys are so sweet, I'm going to get cavities," Luciana sitting across from them said.

 - "Keep your mouth shut, Luciana."  Abigaíl threatened her sister.

 - "What?"  Luciana said innocently.  "I just said you were sweet.  Unlike that proposal kiss that was all over the Internet."

Abigaíl turned bright red.

 - "Umma, I want to see!"  Isabel poked her head up from the game.

 - "No."

Jaejoong, Luciana and her husband all laughed at the usually composed, Abigaíl.

The teasing stopped once their parents joined the table.  "Haber, que discuten (So, what are you guys arguing about)?"

 - "Nada, Papi, solo hablamos de la boda (Nothing Daddy, we're just talking about the wedding)."

 - "Ya tienen fecha (Do you have a date)?"

 - "Si, Abeojim, September twenty-eight."

Everyone at the table laughed at Jaejoong's Span-Kor-glish.  "Se me hace que mi hermano a descubierto nuevo lenguaje (It seems like my brother has discovered a new language)."  Edgar teased,

 - "Appa, I'll teach you Spanish, arraso?"

 - "Whatever language it is, he taught it to Isabel too."  As usual, the table was filled with laughter.

But no one noticed Abigail’s mom wasn't laughing.  She had nothing against Jaejoong who was a good man and he turned his life around and returned to Christ, thanks to her daughter but, she hated to see her daughter leave.  And now he wanted to take her away in two months?  "Porque tan pronto, hija (Why so fast, daughter)?"  Her voice was angry.  "Metiste pata otra vez (Did you insert foot again - implying that she was pregnant)."

 - "Paula!"  Abigail’s Dad yelled.

 - "Como puedes creer Ma (How could you think that, Mom)."  Abigaíl knew Her Mom was having a hard time with the idea of her leaving again but did she have to accuse her of something like that and in front of the kids?

Jaejoong was looking at Abigaíl who had paled and tears threatened to fall at any moment.  His Mother-in-law too looked angry but more so like she wanted to cry.  "What did she mean?"  Jaejoong whispered to Abigaíl, whom just shook her head.  He thought there was some hidden meaning behind what his mother in law had said.  For now, he squeezed Abigail’s hand under the table in reassurance.  He felt her squeeze back but didn't let go.  Abigail’s Father announced they should say grace so they could eat.  He would need to talk to his wife again, later.

New York, NY

Ilana had to knock twice before Jihoo answered.  He was so engrossed in the report he was working on he didn't hear the first time.  Opening the door, he smiled to see Ilana.  He had really missed her this time, not just a passing curiosity as to what she was doing.

Ilana saw the smile with which she was greeted at the door and her heart raced.  It had known all this time that it was falling in love, even if she didn't.  Each lost in their own joy of their reunion, neither noticed the other staring.  It was Jihoo who woke up first.  "Ilana-yah, Na have something on my face?"

 - "Deh, Harabeoji and JanDi fed you well.  Your cheeks are full," she teased walking in past him.

 - "Oh, and let's see Ilana's cheeks."

 - "Gwenchana, we don't have to," Ilana walked toward the window to avoid him looking at her.

 - "Was Ilana-yah busy?"

 - "Deh, mianhae, Na didn't get all your administrative work done.  We can stay here and I can help you finish?"

 - "Anieyo, it's not your responsibility and Na promised you lunch at the park," taking his keys and wallet from the desk drawer.  "Kaja," he placed a hand on her back and led her to the door.

Jihoo's warmth was so inviting, especially when she was usually cold.  Not as bad as before Dr. Jaejoong had controlled her anemia but still cold.  "Nah bogoshipŏssŏyo?"  Jihoo asked as they were leaving the building.

Ilana pretended deep thought, "nomu jeogumyo."  She squinted her eyes and brought her thumb and index finger together.

 - "Ah, Ilana is cruel agassi.  Na bpogoshipŏssŏyo."

Ilana tried not to look at his eyes or she would lose her composure.  She was smiling like a dork while walking head down so as not to be discovered.  She didn't see Jihoo's own smile as he saw her try and hide her own.  "Oh, did Jihoo get a care package for KyuJong Oppa?"

 - "Deh, he says he'll scold you when he gets his hair cut."  Ilana waved away the threat.  "If Na were to go away, would Ilana send me a care package?"

 - "But Jihoo isn't going away?"  She gave him an undisguised panicked look.

Jihoo saw it and it made his day.  "Pretend...what would Ilana send me."

 - "Mollah?  Lots of Jihoo's favorite soap, a Vivaldi CD, tortillas, Nana's green salsa, more of the shirts I got you for your birthday, a black cardigan because you don't know when you'll need an extra, and a book."

 - "A book?  What book?"

 - "Pride and Prejudice, what else?"

 - "Ah, deh."

They both began to laugh.

Union City, NJ

 - "Have you decided on colors for the wedding yet?"  Silvia asked, not thinking of her mother's reaction from earlier.

Sra. Paula suddenly rose and began clearing away dishes.  Jaejoong sprang to his feet and took the plates from her.  "Anieyo Eommoni, déjame (let me).  Edgar, why don't you help me?"  Jaejoong deliberately singled out his future brother in law.

 - "O-kay?"  Edgar didn't know why he had to do it but he'd let it slide this time.

Once in the kitchen, Jaejoong asked:  "What was the comment about inserting a foot about?"

 - "Don't worry about it," he said heading back for more plates.  "She just doesn't want to see Abigail go.  The same happened with Luciana, she'll get over it."

On their second round to the kitchen, Jaejoong asked:  "But what did she say?"

Edgar sighed, "She meant did Abigaíl make another mistake, as in getting herself pregnant."

Jaejoong took in a breath.  "Bro, we're not..."

 - "It's okay, I really don't need to know if you are or aren't.  That's between my Sister-in-law, you, and God.  Forget about it and just plan your wedding, Dad's on your side and that's what counts."  The two men went back for more but Jaejoong was thinking how to get on his mother-in law's good side.

New York, NY

Having stopped at Fairway market for Sushi, fruit and cheesecake, they settled on a bench facing the fountain.  Thankfully the conservatory garden wasn't a favorite for picnickers since it was a quiet zone but Jihoo had an idea.

Even though the day was warm, a breeze played off the fountain and as they sat in the shade the temperature was very comfortable.  Happily chewing on a spicy tuna roll, Ilana sent a text to Jihoo.

Ilana:  How was ur trip?  When is Harabeoji going to visit again?

Jihoo had just stuffed his face with a cucumber and avocado roll.

Jihoo:  Boring, Na actually got to sleep on the plane.  It's much more interesting to be awake the entire fourteen hours.  Harabeoji asked me to ask you the same thing.

Ilana watched Jihoo smiling widely and couldn't wait to read his text.  She scrunched her face at him as soon as she did.

Jihoo shook his head before reaching out to pinch her cheek with one hand and then fed her a Philadelphia roll with the other.  She had no choice but to take it from his chopstick or else have him smash it in her face.  "Yah, what was that all about," she said quietly.

 - "Ilana's face is getting thin."

She stuck her tongue out at him.  "Is not."

 - "Is too, open up again."  Jihoo assaulted her with another piece of Philadelphia roll.

Swallowing, she took an edamame pod.  "Eat," she grazed his lips with the green pod.

He thought he'd a bit and 'accidentally' graze her fingertips with his teeth.  He enjoyed the red tint creeping from her neck to the top of her cheeks.  "Ilana should move from the sun, she's getting burnt."

Ilana took her cell phone again.

Ilana:  Yah!!!!

Jihoo ignored her and brought another roll to .  He was grinning widely by now.

Gaining confidence and figuring he'd leave her alone if she forced him to eat as well, she took a spicy tuna roll and didn't back down until he ate.  They continued the banter until all three rolls were done and much of the fruit.  Ilana waved a napkin in surrender.

Ilana:  Truce!!!  I'm stuffed!!!

Jihoo:  What about dessert?

Ilana:  Ajussi can have it, Na can't even think about any more food.

Ilana scarcely had an appetite the entire week.  She'd consumed more in this one meal than some of her days.

Jihoo:  Harabeoji insisted Na play a game of stop-go with Ilana on his behalf.

Ilana:  Arraso!  Let's put the leftovers away.

Union City, NJ

The incident with Sra. Paula lay dismissed if not entirely forgotten.  Abigail's parents left, taking the grandkids and leaving their kids to spend sibling time together.  "Abigaíl, we're going to be your bridesmaids, right?" Sylvia asked, now that her Mom was gone they could talk about the wedding.

 - "Of course."

 - "Do you know who you'll ask to be your groomsmen?"  Abigaíl asked Jaejoong.

 - "For sure Jihoo and another good friend that's still back home, Kwon JiYong."

 - "Jaejoong, how did your parents take the news?"  Luciana wanted to know.  She'd heard his parents were fond of her sister but Jaejoong was also an only child.  She wondered how they felt now that their little boy was really getting married.

 - "Umma asked if I was drunk and dreaming.  Abeoji asked if I'd gotten Abigaíl drunk so she'd say ‘yes’."

 - "That's not true!"  Abigail shouted.

 - "Deh!  Call them and ask!"  Jaejoong handed Abigail his phone, while the others laughed.

 - "I'm not going to call!"  Abigaíl returned his phone.

 - "They are overjoyed and that's putting it mildly.  Umma is already calling some of the best Hanbok shops to see if they can accommodate Abigaíl.  She wants to come back now but Abeoji won't let her.  He says she and I will take over the wedding preparation and Abi won't get a say."

 - "Girl, we gotta get a move on, if your wedding is in two months," Luciana said.

 - "Seriously, two months?"  It suddenly clicked in Abigail's brain.

 - "Gwenchana!  We have the venue, the date and Pastor.  We'll hire a wedding planner and the rest is easy."

Abigaíl looked at her fiancé as if he'd sprouted two heads.

Luciana laughed.  "Jaejoong, my sister gets cranky when she's stressed.  You've been forewarned."

 - "I know, don't forget I work with her."

 - "You two think you're very funny.  Maybe I'll just call Eomonni and tell her I changed my mind."

 - "You wouldn't, you love me too much."

 - "No..."

Jaejoong stopped her with a brief kiss.

 - "No, I..."

This time he kissed her longer, playfully nipping her lips with his.

 - "No, I don't!"  Abigaíl brought her hand over .  He kissed her hand and winked at his future siblings.

 - "Jaejoong, if you try to keep her quiet like that all the time, your lips are going to be sore."

Abigail's sisters were laughing and Abigaíl was getting more upset by the second.  "Thank you for the advice, bro; I think you're right.  Perhaps a thorough kiss will keep her quiet longer."  Before Abigaíl could protest, Jaejoong brought his lips firmly to hers, applying short then on the fullness of her bottom lip.  A minuscule protest arose somewhere from the back of before he quenched the protest with his tongue teasing hers.  Once he felt her properly subdued, he slowly closed his lips and withdrew.

Abigaíl knew she was bright red and she could hear her sisters and brother-in-law laughing.  Thank goodness they were hanging out in her Father's office, away from the eyes of the restaurant staff.

 - "I think Isabel is going to have a June sibling," Luciana teased.   "Let's go pick up Nathan and go home.  Come on, Sylvia, leave the lovebirds alone."

 - "You don't need to go," Abigaíl said.

 - "Nah, enjoy some quiet time."

Abigaíl and Jaejoong walked out with the siblings and watched them go.  "Now what?"  Jaejoong asked.

 - "Let's just go for a walk."  She took his hand in hers and led him down the block.

New York, NY

Jihoo and Ilana were enjoying their lazy afternoon, just walking around the gardens, slower than they had their first time back in March.  They had played the card game as quietly as possible, occasionally Jihoo would do something or make a face and Ilana couldn't help but laugh out loud.  She would cover before the noise police came and arrested them.  Not that there were park rangers lurking around every corner but just in case.  They both sat at the fountain of the three maidens, quietly enjoying the warmth of the afternoon and each other's company.  His eyes rested softly on Ilana as she swished the water with her hand.  Both couldn't believe there was a time when laughter didn't abide within them.  Jihoo really wanted to hold her in his arms and tell her how much he loved her but it wasn't time yet.  "Ilana-yah," he wanted to ask because he was curious and hoping she would reveal more about her family.  "Wae are Suzy-ssi and her husband moving to California?"  Ilana looked at him in surprise.  "KyuJong Uissa told me."

 - "Oh!  It’s just the family business wasn't my thing but it's a stable company and JungMin is a perfect fit.  I spoke to my cousin-in-law and she was able to get Suzy in at the hospital they work at.  It seemed like a good idea and they agreed."

 - "Does Ilana not want to go home and head up her family company?"

 - "Na don't have the talent for that but Min does.  He might not get to head it up but I don't doubt he can be like second in command."

 - "Wae does Ilana sell herself short?  It was the information you presented to WooBin that enabled him to get his club off the ground, including the sketches.  He loved your ideas so much he implemented them."

 - "Deh, sitting behind a computer is easy.  Calling in someone to do field research is easy.  Doodling a few rough sketches is easy.  What Jihoo does is not easy.  Na can't run a company."  A thought crossed her mind, was he trying to tell her she should leave?  A moment of panic set in, "Is Jihoo-yah trying to get rid of me?"

Ilana had turned her head back to the fountain but not before Jihoo saw that panic in her eyes.  He reached out and took her face in his hands.  "Anieyo, anieyo, mullon aniji (of course not)."  Ilana had to look away.  His eyes were so kind, so caring, she could get so lost in them and then she'd blow everything.  "Na just want Ilana to be well and happy."

She smiled at him after having taken a restorative breath.  That she could do, she could be well and happy as long as he was around.  "Naega well and happy right here with my work and new friends."

If he couldn't tell her he loved her, at least he could hold her.  "Chuah," he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her cheek.  "Kaja, let's walk around more."

 - "Arraso," Ilana wrapped her arm around his.  "Maybe we'll be hungry for dessert after a while."  Ilana found it so odd she couldn't eat or sleep while he was away.  She was so stuffed earlier and now she could easily eat again.

 - "Guerae, Ilana-yah can have a bite."

 - "Yah, Jihoo isn't going to share?"

 - "Deh, Ilana said I could have it."

Ilana took a glimpse at him from the corner of her eye and he wore the blank face he liked to wear around her.  "Arraso, Yoon Jihoo Uissa."  Ilana was calm and cool, just waiting for her moment to strike.

 - "Mmm, Contreras Ilana-ssi is upset."  He observed coolly.

 - "Anieyo, Yoon Jihoo Uissa.  Majayo (You're right), Na gave Yoon Jihoo the dessert.  Enjoy it with my compliments."

They walked in silence for a little while.  Neither breaking the act.  Ilana was dying inside, she wanted to laugh.  He was trying to but she was giving it right back to him.  And she planned on winning.  They had walked back to the center garden and Ilana let go of Jihoo's arm.  She feigned a stretch and yawn, "Jihoo-yah, pigonhaeyo (I'm tired) kaja."

Jihoo was really beginning to think she was truly upset.  "Yah!"  He re-took her arm.  "I'm teasing, Na wouldn't be so selfish."

 - "Gottcha!"  She stuck her tongue out at him.

 - "Aish, this brat had me worried."  He watched her laugh, enjoying her joke, and he laughed too.  He loved her best when she smiled and laughed.

 - "Jihoo-yah, jeongmal kaja.  Pigonhaeyo.  Let's eat our dessert at home with tea and if I do aegyo will you play the guitar or violin for me?"

 - "Ah, it will have to be a very convincing aegyo."

 - "Arraso, Na will do my best to please Ajussi."  They grinned at each other the entire way to the car.                            

 - "Hyeong are you nervous?" JungMin asked.  Suzy and he had spent the last few days with KyuJong in Jeonju.  They would see him off at the training center and then take their time driving to Incheon.  From there his parents were meeting them for an early dinner before they boarded their flight to Los Angeles.  There Ilana's driver would be meeting them.

 - "Deh, na would be lying if I said I wasn't hajiman I'm excited.  Yoon Jihoo Uissa asked me to oversee the running of the four clinics after my discharge."

 - "Wau!!  Daeback!  When were you planning on telling us?"  Suzy admonished.

KyuJong shrugged.  "Mollah?"  He was excited but didn't want to boast.  He didn't want his good fortune to overshadow that of his friends.  What he would not tell them is that the Doctor was in love with their friend.  He hadn’t outright admitted it but hinted at it.  That secret he had to keep for a while.

 - "Harabeoji and Jihoo Uissa both are very kind.  They were very kind to Unnie when she was sick.  Na still remember the scolding he gave her."  Suzy laughed at the memory.

 - "Deh, na remember Suzy said she was furious at him."

 - "Oh deh!"

 - "Yah KyuJong-ah, did you see our dongsaeng on the Internet?"

 - "Mwo?

It was common knowledge JungMin loved to follow all the Entertainment websites.  By now he'd put all the pieces of the puzzle together with the appearance of Ha JaeKyung at their wedding and her friendship with Yoon Jihoo.  He couldn't believe Ilana was working with and enjoyed a friendship with an F4.  Taking his phone out, JungMin pulled up one of the better websites with pictures of Club Eden New York's grand opening.

 - "Wau!  That's our dongsaeng?  Out in the big scary world?"  He was proud of her.  "She is yippeun."

 - "Deh and look at her smile.  She's happy."  Suzy pointed out.

KyuJong smiled at the picture, yes she was happy.  Happy to be there, he wondered?  Or happy with her .  He might have to follow the media while he was in the military.  "It's good to see her smiling like that.  The last few months have been good to her."

 - "Wae didn't Emily come to see Hyeong off?"  JungMin just had to ask.

 - "Ah, her classes didn't give her a chance to get away.  We said our goodbye's before I left.  We'll be keeping in touch.  Hokshina na will be stationed closer to Macknae and YoungSaeng Hyeong."

 - "Oppa!"  EunAh, KyuJong's little Sister called, "Umma says it's time to go."

KyuJong sighed, this was it.

 - "KyuJong fighting," JungMin smacked his friend on the back.

 - "Fighting, Oppa," Suzy gave him a tight hug, getting weepy.

 - "Yah, that's enough hugging," JungMin complained.

 - "Is y Charisma afraid, Na will take his anae?"

 - "Mullan anjii, she's all mine," JungMin practically growled before swooping down for quick teasing kiss only lightly caressing her tongue with his.

 - "Mmm, you two are free to stay here.  Na don't need you to me."  KyuJong teased them.

They ended the kiss and Suzy buried her head in her husband’s chest giggling.  He had that effect on her.  "Mianhae Oppa, na can't help it," her voice was muffled.

 - "Gwenchana, this Mal may be Suzy’s nampyeon, but Suzy will always be Na assistant.”  Suzy grinned at her ex-boss/Oppa.  "Suzy-ah, make sure to learn a lot in California and JungMin-ah, take care of her well."

 - "Deh Hyeong," JungMin smiled affectionately at his wife.

The three began to walk out the door towards the cars.  "Ah, one more thing.  Na expect a call as soon as you're settled in California.  Na want to be called Samchon (uncle) soon."

 - "Oppa!"  Suzy said embarrassed.

 - "Arraso, we will," JungMin agreed wholeheartedly.  Suzy was still young but he couldn't wait to have a little girl just like her.  They had agreed not to try for a family until they were well settled in California.

They soon arrived at the JeonJu Division 35 Training Centre.  There were many other families dropping off their sons.  It was an exciting, yet sad day for many.

 - "My boy, my sweet boy.  Take care of yourself."

 - "Umma, gwenchana, it's fortunate Naneun Uissa (I am a Doctor)."

 - "Aigoo, for Eommoni you'll always be nae ahgi (baby)."

 - "Umma..."  KyuJong was cut off by his Mother's affectionate and strong hug.  He hugged her back; she was the best mom ever.

 - "Umma, let me shake this man's hand.  Na always knew there were eyes under all that hair of yours," his Father said.  "Na don't have to tell you to make us proud, you always do.  Don't forget to call Umma and your dongsaeng; they will be worried about you."  KyuJong's father grasped his son's hand firmly.

 - "Deh Abeoji."

 - "Oppa, be safe, arraso?"  His little sister hugged him.

 - "Aww, na didn't know my dongsaeng cared so much."

 - "Let's take pictures!"  Suzy said.  "Ilana-yah has been waiting to see your short hair.  She's probably asleep already."

 - "Arraso, this one is for Ilana."  KyuJong saluted for the camera.

 - "On the count of three," Suzy said.  "Hana, dol, set...got it!  I'll just text her really quick."

 - "Guys," KyuJong said.  "Na won't be able to keep in touch as often with her.  Make sure you do, juseyo."

 - "Guerae, Oppa.  How can we not keep in touch with her, when we'll be living at her house almost?  To tell you the truth, Naega a little scared of meeting her cousin.  Gloria Unnie is really nice and I am looking forward to meeting her."

 - "Jagiya has nothing to fear, because we're her true friends and would never hurt her like her cousin did."

 - "Majayo Suzy-ah," KyuJong agreed.  "If he says anything, you send him to me."

 - "Deh, if Na don't punch him first," she joked.

It was almost midnight when Ilana heard her phone announce a message.  She had purposely placed it right next to her head on the pillow.  She knew what a sound sleeper she was most of the time and this way she hoped not to miss KyuJong's message.

She smiled, opening the message to see the picture of his short hair but then a wave of sadness hit her.  She hadn't gotten to see YoungSaeng with his short hair.  Blinking back tears, she sent KyuJong a response.

Ilana:  Aww Oppa, what lovely eyes you have.  Ke Ke Ke, now that I can see them, haeng un (good luck).  Oppa fighting!  Let me know how you are and if you ever need anything, juseyo.  You're always taking care of others, now let me do what I can for you.  Call me anytime, arraso?  Even if it's the middle of the night.  Goyangi will wake me up.  She's giving me an annoyed look because I'm moving.  Saranghaeyo Oppa.

 - "Ilana replied back," KyuJong opened the text.  "Aish, nae hair was not in my eyes!"  He heard laughter from his Mother and Sister.  "Tch, tell her if I need anything...that brat got Jihoo Uissanim to give me all kinds of things."  He was smiling.

 - "Oppa knows how stubborn Unnie is; besides, she hates it when we don't let her spend money on us."

 - "Deh!"  JungMin agreed, remembering how they'd purchased the New York City Pass for her as well as themselves.

KyuJong also smiled before returning her text.

KyuJong:  Only if Ilana behaves herself for Jihoo Uissa.  If Na hear you're not eating or following up on your labs, I won't take even a tissue from you.

Ilana smiled at KyuJong's text.

Ilana:  Arraso Oppa, Na promise.  Is Oppa making Jihoo Uissa my caretaker?  Is he now your spy?

KyuJong:  Maybe...ke ke ke.  Sleep now agassi, isn't it late?

Ilana:  Pabo.  Deh, it's almost midnight.  Jihoo Uissa will have to wait for me if I'm running late in the morning.

Ilana thought of something else.

Ilana:  Oppa...you'll let me know how he is, right?

KyuJong:  Jalja Princess.  I will.

KyuJong didn't need to be told who 'he' was.  He knew she still worried and was saddened by his Hyeong.  They all were but it couldn't be helped really.  Perhaps, in the long run, this was best.

Ilana smiled, put the phone back on the pillow next to her and settled back into sleep.  She didn't have to explain herself too much to KyuJong.  He knew.  She was so fortunate he was walking along the deck that day and found her.  He saw her and stayed, even when she asked him to just keep walking and leave her there.  "I wonder if he realizes the chain of events he caused."  Ilana shook her head.  "Probably not, he was just being who he is.  Eternal Center."  Just before drifting off, she giggled.  She told KyuJong saranghaeyo easily, willingly.  Of course, she loved her friends.  Jihoo was her friend and she said it under his coercion, it had felt awkward.  Little had she realized when she did that she had actually meant it?  That was her last random thought before falling back to sleep.

1) Another chapter I couldn't name well.

2) I hope I didn't lose anyone with the dates on this chapter.  There's a 13 hour time difference between New York and Korea.  So it say it's evening in New York, it's already midday in Korea.

3) More of Jihoo and Ilana next chapter.  LiSSie, there will be a corner in their near future.

4) As always, thank you for all your comments and support, even the silent readers.  As usual, I can hear you breathing.  I don't bite, so drop me a comment every now and then. ;)

Until next time my pretties

 - Saranghae