Several kissing sessions up ahead...

 March 8, 2015

Ilana sat in the middle seat of the car, so she could lean her head against Jihoo.  Saying that she was now comfortable with flying would be a huge exaggeration but with a lot of prayer and Jihoo by her side, she managed quite well.  Brendon had picked them up and they were on the way home.  Ilana had slept almost until landing and was still tired; she rode with her eyes closed and an unconscious smile reviewing the last few days.

 - "Sarang, choah when you smile," he moved her head so as to kiss her cheek.

Ilana smiled back at him without opening her eyes.  "How can I be so happy?"

 - "It's a gift, take it.  Mmm, things can happen in life but we're not supposed to lose our joy."  Jihoo mused.

 - "Because joy comes from the Lord," Ilana dutifully answered and opened her eyes to look at him.  "Ara, you have to have hope if you want joy and if you have joy you have hope."  She knew this now.  Taking his hand in hers, she leaned her head again.  "I'm glad everyone came to see us off.  I was nervous they would never accept me in the first place, much less the second time."

 - "Na told Sarang they already loved you."

 - "Deh, they think I'll make you happy, I pray I will."

 - "Nae sarang does and always will."

 - "But poor JanDi," Ilana laughed.  "Harabeoji made that whole story up about meeting a woman for you at the camp.  I thought she was going to have a heart attack when we told her we ran into each other at the camp on Sunday."

Jihoo grinned, "Ah Harabeoji is a rascal."

 - "I wish he would have come with us now and stayed a few weeks until we plan a wedding."

 - "Harabeoji can't stand to be too far from his clinic."

 - "Deh."

Finally arriving at Ilana's house, Brendon opened the door for her.  "Joy will be so happy to see Ajussi or is it Appa now?"  Jihoo shook his head.

 - "Miss Ilana, I don't think Dr. Jihoo cares to be the cat's Father," Brendon said as he grabbed luggage from the trunk.  They both had brought extra baggage that barely fit in the already large trunk.  Some of it had to go in the front with him.  Ilana brought two large suitcases and so did Jihoo who brought several suits and shirts in one and accessories and casual wear in the other.  He fully intended to go shopping during the week.

 - "Why can't he be Joy's Appa, he gave her to me?"

 - "Ah, well in that case, you're on your own Dr. Jihoo."

Jihoo grinned as took Ilana's laptop case from her.  Entering the door, they were mobbed by Nana.  "Niños, que alegría verlos juntos (Kids, what a joy to see you kids together)."  Nana wrapped them in her supersized hug. "Dejen las bolsas en la oficina y vengan a comer.  Solo falta derretir el queso (Leave the bags in the study and come eat.  All that’s left is to melt the cheese)."

Jihoo and Ilana smiled at each other, Nana was so happy to see them; she had tears in her eyes.  "Danos un momento, Nana (Give us a minute, Nana)," Ilana called after her.

They walked into the office, placing their bags on a chair.  Ilana walked to the bay window and Jihoo wrapped his arms around her from behind.  Ilana let her head come back against his chest.  "I spent a lot of time sitting here, those early days.  It was dark and cold in here, just like I felt."  Jihoo remained quiet, just listening like he always did.  Ilana turned in his arms to face him.  "I never thought to see you again."  Reaching out a hand to caress his face, “then Yesu demonstrated to me what love is and I loved him for everything he did for me.  I didn't hope that he'd let me have my angel back but I'm so glad, he did."  Ilana pulled Jihoo down to her and gave him a soft kiss.

He held her, not letting her go answering her soft kiss with his own.  He wanted all of her:  the shy, the sweet and tender as well as the bold and unrestrained.  She was definitely not in the unrestrained category and barely testing the bold but those times would come.  He pulled away first.  "Sarang, Halmoni will scold if we don't go eat soon," he kissed her cheek before taking her hand and leading them to the kitchen.

Sitting at a small table were two pita chicken and spinach pizzas in tomatillo salsa.  "Delicioso, Halmoni is a gourmet cook," Jihoo said.  They had both insisted Nana sit with them.

 - "She is," Ilana bestowed a glowing smile for her Nana.

Nana beamed at her niña and husband.  She'd been praying for them for so long and the Lord had finally answered her prayers.  "Me siento bendecida al ver como Dios los ha unido (I feel blessed to see the way God has brought you together), un regalo para uno al otro (A gift one another).  Y ha usado sus vidas por su Gloria (And he’s used your lives for his Glory)...”

 - "Si Nana, aunque tarde un poco en reconocerlo (Yes, Nana, even if I took a while to recognize it)."

 - "Mejor tarde que nunca (Better late than never)."

Jihoo gently caressed Ilana's face and she turned to feed him a bite of pizza from her hand.  Then she remembered her giant task before her.  "Nana, aunque nos registramos como marido y mujer todavía nos falta la bendición de Dios y nuestros amigos (Nana, even if we’re registered as husband and wife, we still need the blessing of God and our friends).  Tenemos que organizar una boda, Nana (We need to organize a wedding, Nana)."

 - "Lo más pronto posible (As soon as possible)," Jihoo added, stealing another bite of pizza from Ilana's hand.  It had lay forgotten as she lost herself in the conversation.  Ilana squeezed his side, knowing that made him jump.

 - "Yah!"  Jihoo reciprocated the love, by making Ilana squeal as he tickled her side.

 - "Hajima!  Nana!"  Ilana was to receive no help from Nana who was delighted to see her girl smiling and laughing again.

Brendon walked in with mock annoyance to see the couple with their disgustingly cute banter.  "I had enough of you two on the ride over.  Nana, así se comportaron durante todo el camino (Nana, that's how they acted the entire ride over)."  He sat next to Nana and put his head on her shoulder and held her hand, playing with her hair.

Ilana buried her face in Jihoo's shoulder, shaking with laughter and embarrassment.  Jihoo shrugged it off as usual.

 - "Ya déjalos, están enamorados (Leave them alone, they are in love).  Aprende, quizás así consiguieras novia (Learn, maybe that way you'll get a girlfriend)."  Nana couldn't resist the dig on Brendon's unmarried status.  "Para cuando quieren hijita (For when are you planning, dear)?"

Ilana shrugged her shoulders and looked at Jihoo, "mañana (tomorrow)."  Jihoo spoke.

 - "You're not helping," she told the poker-faced man next to her.

Jihoo grinned, taking his phone out to check the calendar.  "When does it look convenient to you?"

  - "I think I want a mid-week wedding, it's mostly just our friends anyway.  Do you think we can get the gang from the hospital over for two days?"

 - "Leave it to me."

 - "Your birthday?"

 - "Anieyo, na want a day just for us."

 - "Hmm, how about Wednesday the first.  That gives everyone time to make arrangements for being off.  The hotel does catering and I'm sure they have contacts for flowers.  We can go tomorrow.  JungMin and I won't be going to the office until Tuesday and we can talk to Pastor JaeRim tonight."  Ilana paused when she noticed Jihoo just staring at her with a grin on his face, cheek leaning on his hand.  "Waeee?"  She tried pulling his arm out from off the table but instead, he took her hand and kissed it.

 - "Yippeun," he said as Ilana ducked her head shyly.  "Choah this side of you; the side that's no longer afraid."  He held her gaze for a few seconds as she lifted her head to sneak a peek at him.

 - "Nana, gracias por la comida, pero me voy (Nana, thanks for the food, but I’m leaving).  Estos dos son puro caramelo (These two are pure caramel).  You two are just as bad as the Park couple."

Jihoo, Ilana, and Nana began to laugh at the confirmed bachelors retreating form.   "Vayan a descansar, cariños (Go rest, dears)."  Nana began to shoo them out of her kitchen.

 - "Si Nana."

 - "Deh Halmoni."

 - "Un momentito niños (Just a minute, kids), antes de que se vallan (before you leave)."  Nana thought of something.  "Mi niña, eres una mujer casada y junto con tu marido (My dear, you are a married woman and together with your husband), los amos de la casa (masters of the house).  Ay que desocupar la recamara de tus padres (We need to clean out your parent's room)."

Jihoo understood most of what Nana had said.  "Something about your parent’s bedroom?"

 - "Yes, she says it's time to clear it out for ourselves."

 - "We don't have to do that if Sarang isn't comfortable with it."

Ilana sighed; this was still an area the Lord had been working on with her.  "Anieyo, Nana’s right.  It would be disrespectful of me not to.  It would be like saying, things haven't changed, that you're not my husband or head of the household.  My parents will put enough restrictions on you but you're my husband and deserving of the master bedroom and your proper place in this house.”  Ilana smiled at him, pushing back the ‘what if’s’ that still surfaced from time to time.  “You'll probably want to remodel, we'll go in later."

 - "Jeongmal?"

 - "Deh, Sarang, everything in this house is as much yours as it is mine."

 - "Including you," Jihoo wrapped her in his arms giving her courage to do what she needed to do.

 - "Está bien Nana, ya llamaré los contratistas (Very well, Nana, I’ll call the contractors)."

Jihoo and Ilana went upstairs and were greeted by a boisterous meow of a certain cat coming out of Ilana's room.  "Joy-ah!  Umma bogoshipo?"  Ilana bent to scoop the cat up and kiss the top of her head.  Joy meowed, protesting her Umma's two-week absence.  "Deh, no one spoils you like Umma, huh?"  Jihoo found Ilana's conversation with the cat amusing.  "Umma will bring you sashimi tomorrow, arraso?"  Ilana received a 'you better' meow.  "Joy-ah, bogoshipo but look who I brought?  It's Ajussi."  Ilana the cat towards Jihoo, who dutifully scratched her behind the ears.

 - "Joy-ah annyeong."

 - "Joy-ah, Ajussi is going to be your Appa, arraso?"  Joy was too busy purring.  A monkey could be her Appa as long Jihoo didn't stop scratching.  "Goyangi, you're shameless."  Ilana sat her back down and walked into her room and Jihoo followed.  "Do you want to freshen up and take a nap before Church tonight?  I kind of want to lie on my bed and not move for a few hours.  Sarang knows how exhausted I get from flying."

 - "Arraso,” Jihoo took her hand and pulled her to the bed.  He sat on the edge and brought her to sit on his lap.

 - "Ah!"  Ilana squealed as Jihoo neck with his kisses.  "Jihoo-yah!  I need to shower!"

 - "Later," not giving her a chance to protest, he covered her lips with his, causing her brain to malfunction as he teased merely grazing her lips and then slowly building their kiss to something a little more demanding and just a little greedy.  His hand held her firmly at the waist only leaving that position to caress her back and occasionally the same naughty hand took delight in rubbing tiny circles with the fingertips up and down her leg.

Her room felt warm and yet she shivered but not from fear; Ilana felt heart pulsing and a little out of breath.  This was something she'd never really felt before.  All because of his kiss and his touch?  "Ji-Jihoo-ah, d-don't you have to stop?"

 - "Not yet," he silenced her teasing her lips open with little flicks of his tongue.  He led in sweet dance, their tongues met like two shy lovers hesitantly linking hands and then releasing bashfully looking away.  "Saranghaeyo, Ilana, anae," Jihoo said after releasing her.

 - "Nado saranghae," Ilana caressed his face before leaning in to kiss him again slowly.  She smiled as she thought of something and kissed him again, running her fingertips on the base of his neck with one hand and sneakily running her other hand through his hair.  Jihoo pulled her away to kiss the tip of her nose and her forehead and cheek before pulling himself further on to the bed and dragging her with him.

 - "Hey!"

 - "Take a nap with me."

Ilana rolled off his legs.  "Only for a little bit and only if Sarang cuddles.”  They'd been falling asleep snuggled together since her return.

 - "Deh!"  He patted the bed next to him.  With a shy smile, she lay next to him and molded herself to his side, laying her head on his chest.

This was her favorite position.  He liked to spoon her against him but in this position, she could hear his heart beating and that always lulled her to sleep. Sometimes they'd play with each other's hands or just lay there and talk.  Ilana entwined her hand with his.  "Sarang."

 - "Mmm?"

 - "Sarang."

 - "Dehh?"

 - "Sarang," Ilana giggled and he poked her side.

Ilana was half sitting up and Jihoo pulled her onto his chest.  "Stay like this for a little while," he said.

Ilana smiled as she tried catching her breath.  "Saranghaeyo," Ilana kissed his chest quickly and lay her head back down.

 - "Nado saranghae, my burgundy rose."  They dozed off until Nana woke them up knocking on the door.

Jihoo and Ilana had arrived a few minutes late to Church that evening.  A minor squabble broke between the two when Jihoo opened his closet to find not only the clothes he brought with him but many more pants and shirts, some for business, others for casual, and a suit.

- "Sarang, na was going to go shopping while we were out tomorrow."  He didn't like her spending money on him.

 - "Na just saved you a trip.  We'll have to get your suit altered; I'll make an appointment for the tailor to come."

 - "Did you have Brendon and Nana do all of this?"

 - "Anieyo, na ordered things while you weren't looking."

 - "Sarang, na will pay you back."

 - "Ah, mianhae, I think Nana threw all the receipts away."

 - "Sarang..."

 - "Kansamnida!  It's late, go shower."  Ilana stood on her toes and teased his lips with hers.  "I've got to shower too or we'll be late."  Ilana walked away grinning to herself.

Jihoo watched her walk out of his room and shook his head.  He'd have to find a way to pay her back.  He'd make sure to keep an eye on his sneaky wife's spending from now on.

They still arrived a little late to Church but during the time to get up and greet everyone; they were welcomed openly and excitedly by those in attendance.  Completely shocked to hear Ilana introduce Jihoo as her husband.  Pastor Jonathan also came especially to greet them.  "Ilana, Glad to have you back.  Annyeong hasseyo, Jihoo Uissa."  JaeRim shook hands formally with Jihoo.

 - "Kansamnida, it's good to be here," Jihoo put a hand on Ilana's waist.

 - "Ilana, make sure to come to practice tomorrow night so you can sing on Wednesday."  Don't come to practice, you don't get to sing was the rule.  "I want you to sing your song so everyone can hear."

 - "Deh, I will."

 - "Na will make sure of it," Jihoo agreed.

Before Pastor JaeRim could walk away, Ilana called out to him.  "Pastor Jonathan, we need to talk to you after service!"

 - "Okay!  Don't let me escape," JaeRim called back.

Throughout the service, Jihoo and Ilana listened intently and took notes, occasionally Ilana would lean her head on his shoulder or he would take her hand in his.  It was a special time for Ilana and if anyone was watching, they could see the small smile on her face.  She had the Lord first in her life and her earthly husband by her side.  What more could she want?  After services, they caught up with Pastor JaeRim.

 - "Hey guys, what can I do for you?"

 - "JaeRim Moksa, we've only registered our marriage and would like it if you would officiate our wedding ceremony."

 - "Aww, I'd be honored guys, when are you planning it?"

 - "Three weeks from Wednesday?  Would you be able to get another team to do worship that night?”

 - "I'll make calls and get a guest band for that night.  I'd love to officiate for you guys.  Let's get together, so I can get to know Dr. Jihoo and a little more about your relationship since other than from your testimony, this was the first I've heard of him," Pastor JaeRim .  He knew when she arrived there was more to her story but it wasn't his place.  The Lord would reveal it at the appropriate time.

 - "Mianhaeyo," Ilana said a little chastised.  Jihoo squeezed her hand in reassurance.  "Unnie and you can come over for lunch next Sunday."  Ilana looked at Jihoo for confirmation, he nodded, letting her know he was fine with the idea.

 - "We'd like that.  It will be nice to meet your Nana and Brendon under different circumstances."

 - "Jeogumyo," Ilana brought her thumb and index finger together in front of her squinting eyes.

Jihoo looked at the exchange and pierced his wife with a questioning look.

 - "Anieyo!"  Ilana understood that look perfectly.  She did not want to get into the entire pneumonia thing and especially not the whole almost dying thing with him.  Ilana tugged on his hand to go but he pulled her back and into his arms.

 - "May I ask what circumstances are those?"

 - "She hasn't told you about when she was ill?"

 - "Ah, no, she wrote Harabeoji briefly about it but has not mentioned it to me."

Ilana squirmed in his arms trying to escape.  "There's nothing more to tell, Sarang."

Pastor JaeRim laughed.  "Truly, the Lord saved her and brought her right to where he told you to wait for her.  We were all there praying for her healing and the Lord knew it wasn't her time yet."

Jihoo squeezed her tighter against him.  "Kansamnida for being there and not giving up on Nae stubborn anae."  Jihoo let her go after kissing her forehead.

 - "Go on you two.  Ilana, I'll see you at practice."

 - "Deh!"

They had a quiet dinner with Brendon and Nana and then Ilana was ready to sleep and not wake up for a long time.  "Descansen niños (Rest kids).  Mi niña no va ir a la oficina mañana así que no los despertaré (My girl doesn't have to go to work tomorrow; therefore, I won't wake you).  Ay me avisan cuando quieran desayunar (Just let me know when you want breakfast).  Que Dios bendiga sus sueños (May God bless your sleep)."

 - "N-no se preocupe Nana, nosotros encontraremos algo que comer (D-don't worry, Nana, we'll find something to eat)."  The idea of Nana coming into her room with Jihoo right next to her was completely mortifying.  Unfortunately, Nana didn't think so.

 - "No alegues y ve a dormir, que seguro tu marido también está cansado (Don't argue and go to sleep.  I'm sure your husband is also tired)."

Jihoo wore his famous poker face with the twinkling eyes that told Ilana he understood Nana perfectly and found the situation amusing.  "Si, Nana (yes Nana)."

 - "Buenas noches (Goodnight), Nana," Jihoo inclined his head and led his wife upstairs.

 - "I can't believe you don't find the idea of Nana coming to wake us up uncomfortable," Ilana complained.

 - "Deh, hajiman we don't have to worry about it tomorrow.  Nana is only teasing you.  She's just as bad as Harabeoji.  She'll be asking for us to produce a baby soon enough."

Ilana felt her face turning bright red.  She loved children and although she never thought she would have her own, she quite looked forward to it.  It was the event that led to children that was creating butterflies in her stomach.  "Oh, I bought you a few pairs of lounging pants and shirts.  I'm sure Nana placed them in your nightstand."

Jihoo stopped her from walking any further.  "Sarang, you didn't have to buy me anything hajiman gomawo.  Gomawo for anticipating my needs," he bent and pecked her lips.  They were just outside of his door.  "I'll get dressed and come into your room."

 - "We can sleep in this room if you want?"  Ilana asked shyly.  She didn't want to assume that he wanted to take her room.

 - "Deh, we'll sleep in your room.  Either bed is new to me after being home for the last few months.  You are used to your bed and Na want you to get a good night's sleep."

 - "Chincha?"

 - "Ka!  Before Na drag you into this room and don't let you go until morning."

 - "Ah!  I'm going, I'm going!"  Ilana ran off before he could make good on his threat.

In Ilana's room, she stared at her pajama sets.  She slept warmly and preferred sleep shirts or cropped pajama pants with a matching sleeveless shirt or tank top.  In the summer she usually wore pajama shorts.  The pajamas she wore in New York were just a little warmer and of course, she slept alone.  In Seoul, she wore a lightweight long sleeve and was comfortable.  The nights were thirty degrees or more, warmer in Los Angeles. No, she wasn't going to take the chance of perspiring in the middle of the night and she wasn't ready to expose her legs to him.  All that would come soon, just not tonight.  Grabbing light gray cotton cropped pants and matching tank top, she ran into the bathroom five minutes before Jihoo knocked on her door.

It took Ilana fifteen minutes to perform her nightly routine and another five to get the courage to walk out of the bathroom.  Jihoo was already in bed wearing one of the pajamas and shirts she had bought him.  She walked quickly to the bed and got under the blankets before discarding her robe.  Joy was curled up next to Jihoo on Ilana's side.  "Mianhae, did you wait too long?  Goyangi, move to the other side, this is my spot."  Ilana lifted the cat with the blanket while sliding into her spot.  The cat meowed and left.  "Joy, mianhae!"

Jihoo laughed and snuggled Ilana closer to him.  "Na thought you were going to sleep in the bathroom."

 - "Ani, I just would've snuck into your room while you weren't looking."  Ilana lay with her head on his chest and naughtily began to tickle his side.  He trapped both hands with his, making no comment and they both lay grinning.  The Pima cotton pants and shirt made him extra snuggly this evening.  Not that he wasn't usually but there was something comforting and snuggly about new pajamas.  Ilana chuckled silently.

Jihoo had begun to say something and noticed his wife's mischievous smile.  He attacked her with tickles while she was preoccupied.

 - "Hajima!  Hajima!"  Ilana laughed and screamed at the same time.  "I surrender!  I surrender!"

 - "Chincha?"  He had her legs trapped between his and her hands were too busy trying to stop the assault but he wasn't going to let her win this one.

 - "Deh!!!"  She cried out of breath.

 - "Choah," he smiled down at her for a second before taking her pouting lips one by one with his.  He coaxed her lips open and didn't remain in teasing mode for very long as he took her tongue captive.  Jihoo's left arm was under her back, bringing her body in full contact with his and the other hand at the base of her neck, massaging the spot with his fingers.  Ilana made a humming noise and Jihoo withdrew his tongue to smile at her.  "Yippuen."  He lovingly ran his fingers through her hair, her loose ponytail had all but fallen it out in their tickle fight, his fingers helped the elastic dislodge itself from her hair.

 - "Jihoo-yah!  I like my hair in a ponytail or braid when I sleep!"  Ilana protested as she tried to regain her breath from his intense kiss.

 - "Leave it down for a little while."  He cupped her face and slowly moved his hand to her neck, where the of his thumb against her jaw were sending strange tingles down that side of her body.

Embarrassed by his intense stare, Ilana had to do something.  She brought his face down to hers, which wasn't difficult as he still had the same hold on her.  Nipping at his lower lip playfully, she then gave it a quick little taste with her tongue before she began placing small kisses just under his jaw.

Jihoo let her play for a little while until he had to regain control of their kissing session or he wouldn't be able to contain himself.  Her nibbling kisses had reached his collarbone; he drew in his breath and laid her back on the bed.  "Your turn," he said, before attacking her neck in the same fashion.  Without breaking stride, he rolled her on top of him and then stopped.  She smiled shyly but didn't protest.  He shifted her further on top of him before he claimed once again.  While Ilana could only caress his hair and face, Jihoo had full use of his hands and made sure he used them.  While the one hand was entangled in her hair, the other playfully rubbed her back with the tips of his fingers until they realized her shirt had scrunched up and his hand met the warm skin of the small of her back.  The sensation paused them both for a second.

Ilana felt an electric shock when Jihoo's hand came into contact with her bare skin.  She felt her eyes growing large as were his but he didn't remove his hand, instead, he continued to with his fingers.

He knew she was no longer frightened of being intimate with him and although he wouldn't take this any further, he liked the feel of her skin under his hand.  "Saranghaeyo," he said, before kissing her again.  He lay her head down on his chest, her hair while continuing to explore her back.  He felt her relaxing and kissed the top of her head.  "Stay like this for a while, deh?  Chuah the way this feels, Na can feel your heart beating against mine.  They are talking like they always have.  They know soon they will be joined as one."

Ilana smiled at the thought.  He was right, this did feel nice.  His hand on her back had stopped its teasing and was just resting as his thumb worked in a circle.  Her eyes were getting heavy but didn't want to move.  "Sarang."

 - "Mmm?"  He smoothed her hair from her face.

 - "Saranghaeyo," she giggled.  Shifting herself so that she could brush his lips with hers and then folded her arms upon his chest, leaning her chin on her folded arms.

 - "Nado saranghaeyo."  He resumed his massaging of her neck as he ran his other hand through her hair.  "Pigonhaeyo. (Tired)?"

 - "Deh," she yawned.  If he continued playing with her hair, she wouldn't last very much longer.

 - "Do you want to sleep?"

 - "Ani," she desired this closeness.  This simple love, feeling his heart beating under her and his chest rising and falling as he breathed.  It was something she'd never experienced and it had only been a week; she couldn't get enough.  In December, she hadn't really let herself get this close.  She realized that she still had a wall up; a thin one but a wall nonetheless.  "Am I getting heavy?"

 - "Ani," he shifted to fix the pillow under his head and brought her hands out from under her head so that she lay directly on his chest. "Sleep, I'll watch over you until I get tired."  He knew she was a sound sleeper.  When he was ready, he could roll her off without waking her.

March 9, 2015

Ilana woke first and it was past nine, although she didn't know it because her room was still dark.  Nana hadn't entered to open her curtains.  The warm presence behind her reminded her why Nana hadn't come into the room.  Snuggled under the blanket and right up next to her on the other side was Joy.  Ilana was trapped.  She took this quiet time to praise God for everything again and ask him to order her day.  She had work to do starting tomorrow but they needed to plan their wedding, today, having no time to lose.  At the moment, though, she couldn't do anything.  She smiled remembering how she fell asleep; on top of his chest.

Deciding she was going to go crazy if she couldn't move, she scoot Joy over enough to move freely.  The cat got annoyed and climbed on top of the blankets with a staccato meow.  Bringing her finger to her lip, Ilana shushed the cat.  She could have sworn Joy 'hmphed' at her.  "Don't talk back," she scolded the cat in a whisper.  Slowly resettling herself, she turned to face a still sound asleep Jihoo.  She hoped he had slept comfortably; his bed was a queen size and hers only a full which was only three inches longer than he was.  "He is handsome," she thought.  Unable to resist, with her finger she lightly traced his brows that were perfect and bringing her finger over his cheek.  She noticed his lashes were a decent length, not stubby but not that long either.  Just perfect.  "Pabo, if he could hear your thoughts," she whispered to herself and giggled.  Again, she just had to touch him.  Sweeping her finger from the outside of his lashes in, careful not to touch his eyes and then bringing her finger down his nose to trace his lips, Ilana felt her face heat up at the thought of his lips.  Perhaps she could steal a light kiss and then she would get up to let him sleep.

Jihoo had felt Ilana move but remained in his sleepy cocoon.  A few minutes later he had felt something on his face and tried to ignore it, at first, thinking it was the cat passing next to him.  Then he thought he heard his wife say something followed by a soft touch on his eyelashes, nose, and lips.  Not quite sure what his wife was up to he decided to remain 'asleep'.

Ilana lifted her head cautiously, trying not to make any movement.  With great effort, she just barely touched his lips.  "Saranghae," she said with another whisper before sitting upright.  Moving the blankets around Jihoo so he wouldn't miss her, Ilana began to scoot over to the edge of the bed.

By this time Jihoo was awake and like a cat stalking its prey, he caught her shoulders and pulled her back down.

Ilana screamed in surprise.  "Jihoo-yah!  Are you trying to bring back my panic attacks?"  Her heart was still pounding and she smacked his shoulder that was directly above her, attached to a neck that was attached to the head that had a mouth that was grinning at her and a pair of mischievous eyes.

 - "Anieyo," Jihoo said, nonchalantly as usual.  He braced himself above her, she was trapped under him.  "Where were you going?"  He began to trace her brows and cheek.

 - "I was going to get up and let you sleep."

 - "All alone?"

 - "I-I thought you were sleeping!"  He had begun to rub his lips on her neck which somehow had a direct effect on Ilana's ability to speak clearly.  "J-joy would hh-ave kept you company."

 - "Na can't kiss the cat," he said.

 - "Well, y-yes, that would be a little o-odd."  His lips and tongue were now burning on her neck then down to collarbone and moving her shirt off her shoulder he repeated the process.  He heard that faint humming again and was encouraged.  Placing his hand on her back and entwining his leg with hers, he lifted her against him and attacked the hollow of .

Too busy concentrating on the journey of Jihoo's lips and tongue; she didn't notice his fingers had snuck their way under the back of her shirt.  Just like last night, his touch was like an electric shock coursing through her body.  This time she actually heard herself make some sort of sound.  Mortified, she tried regaining her thought process.  "Ji-Jihoo?  Ssarang?"

Jihoo smiled at her, lowering her back onto the pillows, he began seducing her tongue with his own, making her hum again.  His hand moved from her back to her side and was now teasing her stomach and slightly higher.  His thumb gently tracing the V in between her s and grazing their underside.

Ilana wondered what this was leading to, she was excited but nervous.  He had said he wanted to wait but they were married, he’d waited for her long enough.  It wasn’t like it would be inappropriate.

Jihoo could feel his need growing, if he didn't slow things down, he wouldn't be able to wait and that was not what he wanted.  He wanted their first time to be special.  Needing more before he had had to let her go, he pulled her against him again.  She had no choice but to wrap her arms around his neck and wrap her own leg around his to keep the balance while his hands boldly explored her back, grazing the sides of her but never going further.  He needed to taste her sweet mouth again and gave into his needs during that kiss.  Exploring with boldness, she was completely open to him, despite her heart beating loudly against him.

Ilana woke from her Jihoo induced fog as she realized how close they were.  Someone could glue them together as close as they were.  "J-Jihoo?"  She pulled away and could barely speak, completely shocked at what she felt against her thigh.  Her leg was wrapped around Jihoo’s; he had lowered her back down and was teasing her neck again.  "Jihoo-yah, I-I thought you-you, we were go-going t-to wait?"

Jihoo groaned and gave her a peck on the cheek.  "Deh...Sarang."  He needed to catch his breath but needed to untangle himself from her first.  "Mianhae, were you uncomfortable?"

 - "A-ani," she blushed.  "I...just-just wanted to know."

Jihoo her red cheeks, "gwenchana, it will go away as soon as anae leaves this bed."

Ilana's cheeks turned even redder and she moved slowly out of the bed afraid to make any sudden movements.  Once free she ran to the bathroom to shower.  If worse came to worse she'd use the intercom to get Nana to bring her clothes.

Jihoo lay laughing to himself; with eyes closed, he remembered the feel of her body against his.  The way her skin felt under his hand.  She was beautiful and she was his.  He took a few deep breaths in order to still his own beating heart.  Could he last three more weeks?  "Yes," he answered himself remembering that he promised them that they wouldn't take that final step until they had their official blessing by the pastor and all their friends.  For now, he could be content with their kissing sessions.  Especially since she didn't hold back from him like before, recalling the faint humming noise she emitted when she was lost in his kisses or as he nuzzled her neck.  He loved everything about her.  Jihoo decided he better find his own shower before she came out and found him still in bed.

Ilana wanted to treat Jihoo to breakfast at the hotel and she had called before they left to make sure the catering manager and wedding coordinator would be there.  Over pancakes, eggs, and sausage they looked through the catering menus.  They were shown a traditional menu of beef tenderloin, ham, and baked chicken but neither Jihoo nor Ilana found it appealing.  "I think we want to go with something different," Ilana said.

 - "Something with seafood," Jihoo said.

 - "I have just the thing," the catering manager said.  "Your beef choice is a Pan-Seared Beef Tenderloin, potatoes Lyonnais, spicy green beans, rich Béarnaise sauce, crispy red onions, and a red wine demi-glace."

Ilana looked at Jihoo and he nodded that it was acceptable.

 - "Your fish entree is Ancho Chile Encrusted Sea Bass with sautéed lump crab meat, tri-colored bell peppers, Chile lime butter sauce served with green and yellow squash with Spanish-style rice."

 - "That sounds delicious," Ilana liked this option and so did Jihoo.  "No offense but I'll have to bring my Nana to taste the rice; if she doesn't approve we will not need it."  Jihoo remained quiet, but couldn't help smile at his wife's confidence.  He was seeing a new side of her, the side she had kept carefully concealed, not wanting people to know who she really was.  He loved everything about her and she was beautiful to him in everything way.

 - "Yes, I understand," the manager tried not to show her surprise but then again this was the owner of the hotel, she could afford to be picky.  "I assure you our Chef is one of the best."

 - "I'm sure he is; he wouldn't be here if it weren't true."  Ilana thought the manager was slightly offended but Nana would be the utmost expert in the Spanish rice and would throw the entire thing away if it weren't to her standards.    

 - "Your vegetarian option is wild mushroom ravioli."

 - "I believe we are satisfied with the entrees," Jihoo added.  "What do you think of the passed hors-d'oeuvres?"  He asked Ilana.

 - "That's fine."

 - "She wants the fruit and chocolate fountain as well."

Ilana's eyes danced like a child’s delighted at the idea.  "I need rice cakes too, we'll have to ask the Ajumma-deul at Church where the best bakeries are."

They discussed DJ and live music, tenting or just heaters.  "We already have the dance floor cover for the pool, Appa and Umma used to have at least one formal gathering each year."

 - "Great, all you two need is to choose your cake."

They looked at several designs, both wanting something simple but special.  Jihoo spotted it first.  "This one...," he said.  It was a white, three-tiered round cake.  Each tier two inches smaller than the previous.  The design was simple:  An icing scallop framed the base of each layer and was dotted with just a few pearls also in icing.  The overall effect was not overpowering but very elegant.  What kept it from being boring or plain was a bouquet of flowers that took the place of a cake topper and a flower head accenting each tier "...with burgundy roses."  Jihoo gave Ilana's hand a squeeze; she lowered her gaze trying not to blush.  Jihoo and Ilana negotiated cake flavors until coming to an agreement:  White with strawberries and cream, Cookies and Cream with Cream cheese and triple chocolate with chocolate ganache.

 - "Nice meeting you Miss Ilana, Dr. Jihoo, we'll see you two back in a few days for taste testing.  I hope your Nana will find the food to her liking."  The catering manager said once they were all done.

 - "Call me with any questions," the wedding coordinator said.

They walked out of the hotel after three hours.  Most of the details were set, including the use of the Presidential Suite and reserving several executive and junior suites.  "We'll get JungMin to DJ, he'll make a great MC, and we’ll just rent all the equipment."

 - "Deh, the little I've been around him, he seems to have a high level of energy."

 - "That's putting it mildly."

 - "Anae said we didn't need a photographer?"

 - "Deh, Elijah, Pastor Young's son is a great photographer and of course Maknae and So YiHyun Unnie."

 - "We should contact Elijah once your wedding dress and my tux arrive.  We should have some type of wedding announcement made."

 - "Deh, since we're calling to invite everyone personally.  Jihoo-yah, there aren’t that many kids; we should probably include them all."

Jihoo didn't know how she'd make three kids under the age of eight cooperate.  "If that's what anae would like to do, I'll make sure to tell InHei, JeongYul, and Isabel's parents."

 - "I'll order dresses for the girls, just get me InHei's size.  Sarang?  Who will be your other groomsmen?  Jaejoong, WooBin, or YiJung?"

Jihoo was quiet for a bit.  "Deh, that's a difficult choice.  Na will have to pray about it but I'm leaning toward Jaejoong.  One, for Abigail's sake, it will be hard enough for Suzy to stand with JunPyo.  Secondly, na don't think WooBin and YiJung will mind and I think Jaejoong would be extremely happy if I chose him."

 - "Well, YiJung and WooBin I'm sure will have an important role."

 - "Deh, they'll be guarding nae anae to make sure she doesn't run away."

Ilana gave him a smile.  "Ani, willing or not you are stuck with me."

 - "Deh, very willing.  There's no one else I'd rather be stuck too."  He pulled her into his arms and held her against his chest for about a minute.  With a kiss on the cheek, he released her. "Kaja," he opened the car door for her.  In the garage was a rarely used, 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mark III BJ8.  In the video message from her parents, her Father had said it was a gift from him for her husband as he no longer had any use for it.  Their cruising days were over.  The roadster seemed to be waiting just for Jihoo.  White in color (his favorite) and a walnut veneer, it fit his six-foot frame perfectly with the convertible top up or down.  In December, with Ilana on her emotional short circuit, looking at the car or taking it out was the furthest thing from their mind.  "JungMin-ssi and Suzy should have arrived by now."

 - "Deh, Suzy and I will have to look at bridesmaids dresses.  What time should we call New York and Seoul?"

 - "JunPyo heads to the office between eight and nine.  I'll call him around five.  WooBin probably doesn't see the light of day until one or two in the afternoon.  We can call them when we get home.  Harabeoji, I can call before bedtime."

 - "SungRyung Unnie is busy up until the end of her staff's workday; I'll call her around three.  We'll want to call Jaejoong and Abigaíl right after.  I don't have Shi-Yoon's phone number or Shancai's.  I'll have to call them tomorrow at work."       

 - "Don't get wrapped up in your own work and forget."

 - "Deh."

When they arrived back at Ilana's house, she was smiling as he opened the door for her.  "What notions are floating through anae's head?"

Ilana covered her giggles with her hand.  "Anieyo."

 - "Wae?"  She was deliberately walking faster and ran into the house which was always unlocked during the day.  "Yah!  What were you laughing at?"  He let her get ahead of him.  His legs were a lot longer than his.  He would catch her easily, which he did just before she opened the kitchen door.

Ilana screamed.

 - "Anae is mine, now.  Wae were you laughing?"

 - "Anieyo!  Let go!"  Ilana laughed as she tried to squirm out of his hold.

They heard Ilana's scream in the kitchen.  "Halmoni!"  Suzy asked surprised and worried.  "Is that Ilana?"

Nana smiled.  "Déjala, ya vendrá en un momentito (Leave her be, she'll be in in a bit)."

 - "But she's okay?"  Brendon didn't really give them any information as to what was happening.  He just said they'd find out soon enough.  Suzy looked at her husband.

 - "If Nana doesn't seem concerned...," he shrugged.

They continued listening to the voices on the other side of the door.

 - "What were you thinking about?" He held her tightly in a back hug, her arms trapped to her side.  He took advantage that no one was around and kissed her exposed neck.

 - "Jihoo-ah!  Chincha!  Amogotdo!"

 - "Na will just continue to kiss you until you tell me."  He spoke quietly; they couldn't really hear what he was saying.  He continued to alternately kiss and tickle her neck.

 - "Hajima!  I'll tell you."

 - "That's better," Jihoo relaxed his grip as she turned in his arms to face him.

 - "I was wondering what you would look like in a classic motorist outfit.  A long coat, white silk scarf, goggles."  Ilana couldn't help giggling again.

Jihoo just stared at her.  He couldn't get enough of her smile, her laugh.  All the pain was gone, all the darkness and he couldn't thank the Lord enough.

 - "Jihoo-yah?"  Ilana cupped his face in concern.  "Gwenchana?  You're not angry are you?"

He woke from his trance and took her hand from his face and kissed it.  "Yippeun, did you know?"

 - "Oh, stop," Ilana felt her face burning with his compliments.  She broke free and turned to the door.  "Let's get some water and go see if Min and Suzy are home."

Ilana's face turned bright red yet again as she entered the kitchen to find not only Nana but Suzy and Jung Min staring at her with grins on their faces.

 - "Annyeong hasseyo," Jihoo was able to recover much faster and bowed to Ilana's friends.  "We were just coming to see you."

 - "So we heard," JungMin said, amused.

Ilana finally recovered and took Jihoo shyly by the hand and led him to the table.  "Suzy-ah, JungMin-ssi, before I ask you about your trip...Suzy will you be my maid of honor?"

 - "Omo!"  Suzy jumped up and hugged her friend.  "Greomyo!"

Ilana laughed as they nearly lost their balance.  "JungMin-ssi, I have a job for you to do, if you're willing."

 - "Guerae."

 - "Will you DJ?  I think you're good at it and you can come and go while you DJ but you'd be stuck if I asked you to bartend.  I don't want that."

 - "Guerae, sounds like fun, I'll get the other guys to help me."

 - "Daeback!  Kansamnida!"

 - "Unnie-ah, when?"

 - "In three weeks from Wednesday.  We need to order your bridesmaid's dress and JiHoo and I need to call everyone."

 - "Unnie, gwenchana, we'll help you with anything you need."

 - "Yah, that's April fools," Jung Min said.  "You're not messing with us are you?"

 - "Ani, JungMin.  I wanted it on Wednesday since we registered our wedding on Wednesday and Jihoo wanted it as quickly as possible," she smiled.

 - "I see," JungMin also smiled as he looked something up on his phone.  "Actually, April first is an auspicious day for you two but April third (his birthday) might be a better day."

Suzy and Ilana both rolled their eyes.  "Mollahyo JungMin."

 - "Wae!  It's the truth!"

 - "Yeobo, let's go unpack.  Unnie-ah, come find me when you're done making calls."

 - "Deh!"  Ilana laughed at them and Jihoo took her hand in his.

 - "No tienen hambre (You're not hungry)?"  Nana asked.

 - "Ay, No gracias Nana.  Estamos llenísimos (Oh, no thank you Nana.  We’re stuffed)."

 - "Está bien niños, tengo cosas que hacer, los dejo (Very well kids, I have things to do so I’ll leave you alone)."

Jihoo looked at Nana's retreating form.  "Does she take care of the entire house by herself?"

 - "Deh, it's just been me and her for the longest time.  When Brendon's Father retired we hired a car service.  Upon his passing, Brendon had finished his degree and wanted to come back to work here."

 - "Na don't want to add more work for her."

 - "She loves it, trust me.  Her niece used to come and help every now and then until she got married but Nana has a system.  It keeps her busy and the house spotless; we have a gardener and a ranch hand that comes twice a day to feed and exercise the horses.  The estate runs perfectly with or without me," Ilana shrugged.

 - "Sarang is the mistress of the house and without you; none of those people would be here.  It was thoughts of them that kept you from hurting yourself further, deh?"  He caressed her face.

 - "Deh and your voice calling me."  She smiled as she stood.  "Kaja, my prince consort.  We've got calls to make."

New York, NY

SungRyung's team had just left.  She usually used this hour to catch up on things that got shoved aside during the day’s urgent requests and problems that arose.  Her phone began to ring and hoped it wasn't another problem.  "SungRyung speaking?"

 - "Unnie-ah, it's Ilana."

SungRyung was pleased and surprised to hear the girl’s voice.  She had been in constant prayer for her and she'd felt the darkness had somehow lifted.  Now hearing her happy voice on the other end her prayers were confirmed.  "Ilana dear!  It's so good to hear from you.  We were so worried about you.  Jihoo had told us you were unwell."

 - "Deh Unnie, that's all done with.  Praise God for pulling me out of the darkness and saving my life ten weeks ago."

 - "Dear, is it true?  You've returned to the Lord?"

 - "Deh Unnie, He's been so good to me.  Despite my foolish and stubborn ways."

 - "He is good, Ilana dear.  He is good.  Is this what you called to tell me?"

 - "Not the only thing, Unnie.  Please tell me you're available on the first?"

 - "Are you coming back to New York?"

 - "Anieyo, I was hoping you, SangWoo, Uee, Shi-Yoon, Shancai, and Abigaíl would come to Los Angeles for mine and Jihoo's wedding."

SungRyung jumped out of her chair.  "Omo!  Chinchayo?"  She was so excited she began to speak in Korean.  "Chukahae!  God is good! Omo!  Omo!  I'm so excited."

Even Jihoo was smiling at hearing his Noona.  "Deh, Noona.  I'll be speaking to the director to make sure he doesn't protest us stealing the department for a few days.  Don't worry about transportation; we'll take care of it."

 - "Jihoo-yah!  When were you guys reunited?  I'm so happy."  SungRyung had begun to sniffle.

 - "Unnie, it's a long story and SangWoo will get angry that we kept you late."

 - "Are you kidding?  He'll want to know every detail."

They spent the next thirty minutes going over how the Lord had brought them back together.

The next phone call was Jihoo's to make.

 - "Jihoo-yah!  Yah, stranger, did you forget about your only chingu in New York?"

Jihoo rolled his eyes and Ilana stifled a laugh.  "Jaejoong-ah you're going to be a groomsman at our wedding."

 - "Mwo?  Jihoo-yah you mean...?"  Abigaíl and he had just got home.  Isabel hadn't even come to greet them yet.

 - "Who is it?"  Abigaíl had mouthed.

 - "You heard me.  And you're bringing the rest of Ilana's old department with you."

 - "It's Jihoo," Jaejoong told his wife.  "Jihoo, you wouldn't be joking, maja?  I'm honored, kansamnida."  Jaejoong was shocked and very pleased to be asked.  "Jeongmal?  Ilana and you are back together?"

Jihoo had the phone on speaker the entire time.  Ilana had tears in her eyes from stifling her giggles.  "Annyeong hasseyo Jaejoong Uissa!"  Ilana broke her silence.

 - "Yah!  That's hyeonbu, agassi!"

 - "I thought I was cheoje (sister-in-law) or is it hyunsu?"

 - "Mollahyo!  What a blessing!  Yah!  Ilana-yah do you know how worried everyone was over you?"

 - "Jaejoong!"  Jihoo warned.

 - "Deh, hyeonbunim."  Ilana put a hand over Jihoo's.  "Arrayo, mianhae but the Lord picked me up from where I lay, so can you forgive me too?  Will you give us your blessing?"  Ilana was close to tears thinking of all the wonderful people she had worried.  Jihoo drew her to lean on his shoulder.

 - "Greomyo!  Who am I?  The Lord knocked me on my knees too, remember?  Omo!  Where and when?"

Abigaíl had been signaling for him to give her the phone and he wouldn't.  She also tugged on his shirt to no avail.  Don't get a twenty-seven-week pregnant woman angry; she slapped him on the arm with all her strength.

 - "Ah!"  Jaejoong yelled into the phone, making Jihoo and Ilana jump back.  "Jamkkanman," Jaejoong groaned.  "Anae wants to talk to you."  With that, he left to nurse his battered arm.

 - "Jihoo?  Ilana?"  Abigaíl took the phone excitedly.

 - "Chica!"  Ilana answered.

 - "Oh my!  Praise God you're okay and you're with Dr. Jihoo!  I'm so happy!"  Abigaíl was indeed so happy she began to cry.

Ilana panicked hearing her on the other side.  "Oh no!  Chica it's okay!  This is a happy call.  You're going to be my bridesmaid, okay?  And Isabel one of my flower girls.  Is that okay?  How are you feeling?  Oh!  How big are you?"

Abigaíl began to laugh through her tears.  "Of course it's okay.  You have to walk slowly down the aisle anyway.  I'm huge but I'm okay.  What about you?  Jaejoong and I have totally been praying for you two."

 - "Gracias chica, your prayers were answered.  I've been walking with the Lord for three months now."

 - "Praise God!  How did it happen?  When did you and Dr. Jihoo get back together?"

Abigaíl and Ilana talked for nearly an hour.  They talked about how she had come back to the Lord and her entire journey from rock bottom to Seoul.  They exchanged Bible verses, talked about Abigail's family, pregnancy, and the baby's name.  They laughed, cried, and praised God for his wonderful blessings.  About halfway through Jaejoong had led his wife to sit down and Jihoo had left to bring Ilana a bottle of water all without either woman breaking stride in their conversation.

Ilana terminated the call and wiped her tears with the handkerchief Jihoo had pressed in her hands.  "Gwenchana?"

 - "Deh, it was so good to hear her voice.  I'd almost forgotten how much I missed her friendship.  I mean, Suzy was here with me, so I had the presence of another female friend and Sarah but Abigail was the first one to reach out to me in New York.  Suzy, Abigaíl, and Sarah are all different and all special and a blessing in their own way.  Is that how you feel about the F4 and Jaejoong?"

 - "Mmm.  By the way, did you tell her the date?"

 - "Oops?  I think I forgot."

Jihoo laughed, he was pretty sure she'd forgotten.  "I'll text Jaejoong."

In New York, Jaejoong asked the same question as he brought his wife tissues.  "Did you get the date?  You took the phone before Jihoo could tell me."

Abigaíl looked at him in alarm.  "She didn't tell me and I didn't ask."

 - "Umma, what did tía Ilana say?  Is she coming to visit?  With Ajussi?"

 - "No mi amor, vamos a participar en su boda (No, my love, we are going to be in her wedding).  Te gustaría (Would you like that)?"

 - "Si!  Deh!"

Her parents laughed at her.  "I'll text Jihoo," Jaejoong said.  "I'm sure you two didn't even talk dresses."

 - "Aw man!  We didn't!  Ugh!  It's the pregnancy brain,” Abigaíl was close to tears again.

 - "Ilana and you just got excited, gwenchana," Jaejoong kissed his wife tenderly.

 - "Mama!  I can't wait!"  Isabel jumped up and down excitedly.  "JaeWook!  Do you hear that?!"  Isabel shouted thinking that she needed to speak loudly for her little brother to hear her.  It was cute, although sometimes a little hard on the ears.  "We get to be in a wedding JaeWook!  Aren't you excited?"

JaeWook heard his little sister loud and clear, Abigail’s entire bump moved toward his older Sister's voice.

 - "Umma!  Did you see that?"

 - "I didn't need to see, I felt it."  JaeWook was an active curious baby, always on the move and loved to be talked to.  Especially by his older sister.

Jaejoong received a text.  "Ah, it seems Jihoo also realized you two completely forgot what it was you were supposed to be discussing.  April first, Los Angeles.  Ilana will send you information on the bride’s maid dress once she and Suzy find it."

 - "Honey, I'm so happy for them."

 - "Deh!  Let's get changed so we can have dinner."

WooBin and JaeKyung were having their lunch/dinner.  JaeKyung usually rolled into her office at eleven and worked until six without a break and then shared a meal with her husband before they went over to the club about eight.  Once the club celebrated its one year anniversary, they planned on returning to Seoul.  WooBin had no immediate plans for another club, as they wanted to focus on their family.  They both decided it was time to expand and were eagerly hoping that JaeKyung did not get her period this month.  WooBin's phone began to ring.  "Oh?  It's Jihoo?"

 - "Yo, waz up."

 - "Come to Ilana's house April first.  We're having our wedding."

 - "Sweet!  Where are you two?  I still can't believe she practically dropped in your lap, without you going after her."  He'd heard all about her arrival in Seoul.  GaEul and JanDi had immediately called JaeKyung, who of course faithfully relayed every detail to WooBin.  The others and he all wanted him to go after her but he would not be swayed.  That was something they already knew.  Once he made up his mind about something there was no changing it.  They should know by now he was almost always right.

 - "We're at Ilana's house.  We just arrived yesterday.  I hope you don't mind, I have a more important job for you, other than groomsman."  Ilana gave Jihoo a questioning look.  He wasn't kidding when he told her he'd have her guarded.  Not that he thought she would run again but until she was completely his, he wasn't taking any chances.

 - "I'm game, dude, let me know."

 - "Deh, I'll let you know."

JaeKyung had been pestering her husband to give her the phone.  "JaeKyung-ah wants to talk to Ilana.  Is she there?"

As with the previous phone calls, the phone was on speaker.  "Annyeong Unnie-ah!  Mianhae, we don't have time to personally deliver an invitation."

 - "Anieyo!  Who cares!  You're finally having your wedding!  Ahh!  I'm so excited!"  JaeKyung's excitement was evident in the decibel level of her voice.  She was practically shouting and all but jumping up and down.  "Omo do you know what your colors will be?  Is your friend Suzy going to be your maid of honor?  Did you know Abigail's baby bump is sooo cute!  We had dinner with her and Jaejoong not that long ago.  This is so cool!  I can't wait for all of us to be together again.  I can't wait for us to be back in Seoul.  Will you guys be living in Seoul?  You guys just can't stay in Los Angeles; the F4 needs to be together again..."  JaeKyung went on and on.

Ilana had pressed the mute button so she could laugh.  "She's so cute!"  Ilana told Jihoo.

 - "Just like a monkey," Jihoo said, eyes lit in mischievous humor.

 - "I better cut her off; we need to call the others."

 - "Jeongmal!  You guys should spend a night in New York, then you can come to the club and we can all celebrate."

 - "Yeobo, I don't think they'll want to be dancing in a club on their honeymoon.  They'll have more important things to do, right Jihoo?"

 - "WooBin-ah," Jihoo didn't acknowledge the insinuation.  "We still need to call the others.  We'll see you in a few weeks."

 - "Deh!"

Jihoo terminated the call and kissed his wife's red cheek.  She had understood WooBin's meaning loud and clear.  "It's late enough, let's call JunPyo."

Seoul, Republic of Korea

Gu JunPyo was getting ready to head to the office when he saw the call from Jihoo. "Yeobosayo?"

 - "We have the wedding date, can you bring Harabeoji and Ilana's friends with you?"

Ilana was shaking her head 'no' and signaling that she was arranging transportation for her friends.

 - "Guerae, when is it?"  Gu JunPyo didn't really like the idea of having strangers in his plane but he'd do it for Jihoo.  It wasn't like he didn't have the room.

 - "April first, you guys will be staying at Ilana's hotel."

 - "Greomyo, your best man will be there."

 - "Ara, I'd disown you as my best friend if you didn't.  Arraso, we need to call YiJung."

 - "Deh, I need to get to the office."

 - "We should call KyuJong Uissa first, he's Captain and easier to get a hold of than your other two friends.  Then we'll call YiJung."

 - "Arraso."

KyuJong answered his phone surprised.  "Dongsaeng-ah, what are you doing calling so early?"

 - "Oppa, it's almost dinner time here in California."

 - "Ah, deh!  I forgot the time difference.  I don't have that much time, Ilana.  What can I do for you?"

 - "I need you to come to my house for our wedding and bring Emily on April first."

KyuJong drew breath through his teeth.  "Ilana-yah, that's really short notice.  I'll do my best but I can't promise anything."

 - "Gwenchana KyuJong Uissa, Harabeoji and I will take care of everything.  Just make anae happy and say you'll come."

 - "Greomyo!"

 - "Don't worry about transportation or anything, I've got it covered," Ilana gave her husband a challenge.  A challenge that he, of course would ignore.  "Is Maknae very busy?  Should I just text him or call So YiHyun Unnie?"

 - "Better text him, he'll pout if you call So YiHyun-ssi and not him."

 - "Got it!  What about Kim HyunJoong.  He said he'd come.  Is he busy?"

 - "Umm...no...he's getting ready to serve his MS, so he's officially on hiatus."

 - "Oppa, why do you always make me worry about him.  What are you not telling me?"

 - "Anieyo, he'll be glad to come, I'm sure of it.  He's probably still sleeping.  I'll give you his parent’s number.  His Umma is very nice, relay the message through her and also send him a text."

 - "Arraso!  Oppa," Ilana had almost forgotten.  "What about Saengie Oppa?"

 - "Na will make sure he's there.  Oppa will take care of it.  You just worry about looking beautiful in your wedding dress."

 - "Deh Oppa, gomawoyo."

Jihoo drew her to him and rubbed her back.  "He said he'll take care of it.  If anyone can get him here it will be him."

 - "Deh, let me send Turtle and Dog their text messages and call HyunJoong Umma."

After a very busy day and on the phone for literally all afternoon and into the night, Jihoo and Ilana spent some quiet time alone in prayer before bedtime.  Tomorrow everyone would be going to work.  Jihoo planned to volunteer his time at the less prestigious of the two hospitals in the small city.  Juan Carlos worked it out for him after Ilana had called him to tell him of the wedding.  Unlike most places, Southern California had at least one hospital in each city, sometimes two.

Ilana snuggled up next to her husband and gave him a peck on the lips.  Joy waited until the two had stopped moving before joining them.  She too climbed on top of Jihoo.  "HyunJoong's Mother was so sweet.  She was so happy to hear from one of her son’s acquaintances, saying all his friends have been such an encouragement to him."

 - "Deh, I thought she was about to cry when you told her you just found out about his enlistment and would be in prayer for him.  I don't follow celebrity gossip, I wonder if something happened to him?"

 - "Remember before the gala, KyuJong Oppa had told me there were some lies being spread about him.  Perhaps it has something to do with that."

 - "Hokshina (Maybe)."

 - "I said a prayer for him and his parents.  It felt like his Umma was really worried about something.  I prayed for peace for the family."

 - "Deh, Yesu knows what's going on.  I don't have any desire to look for gossip regarding the man.  I've only heard good things about him and only observed his most courteous and professional behavior while we were all working together.  I'm sure our prayers are more effective than searching out the ugly news that is grieving his Mother."

 - "Deh, I agree."  They both absently pet the cat, while they conversed as they used to in New York.  "I hope Maknae didn't get in trouble with his superiors for calling us."  HyungJun was so excited upon receiving the text that morning, at first opportunity he had a buddy cover for him and snuck off to call them back.  Overly excited about the wedding and visiting California again and Ilana's home.

 - "I'm sure we would have heard by now if he got in trouble, bad news travels fast."

 - "So does good news!  So YiJung-ssi didn't even wait for us to call, he and GaEul Unnie called us first."

They both laughed.  It had been nice to talk to everyone; Kike was the only one they hadn't spoken to yet.  He was either busy or out of town.  "Yah goyangi," Jihoo said.  "Na want to steal some kisses from anae and I can't with you on top of me."

 - "Who says you have to steal?"  Ilana sat up and lightly kissed his cheek, then his forehead.

 - "Anae, that's not what I had in mind."

 - "Oh it's definitely what I had in mind," she giggled and resumed with his eyes and the tip of his nose and brushed her lips against his.

He was not going to let her get away with it.  He held her face with his hands and satisfied his lips with hers.  The cat left obviously annoyed at this behavior, her parents did not notice or care.

 I obviously had no clue what to name this one.  Wedding is next, take out your party dresses!  You too Richmed!