PRESENT – KOREA – 2019

                “Open up!”

                “Shiro!”

                “Saerin, if you don’t eat you’ll get ugly.”

                “Nice try, but I don’t think I could ever get ugly. Pabo”

                                Kai looked at her in disbelief. They always fought like this every breakfast, lunch and dinner. When the rumors about Jimin and Saerin were found out to be completely false a new scandal arise that shook the world of KPOP fans.

                                That night when he went over to YG headquarters to visit her, the news broke out about their relationship. Upon exiting the building, the paparazzi were on guard flashing their cameras on them asking him questions at a very compromising situation.  Apparently, somebody successfully took a very good picture of Saerin and him 5 years ago when they were a couple kissing and hugging at a party. The scandal did not stop there because a dozen more pictures resurfaced confirming that the rumor was completely 100 percent true.

“EXO’s Kai and International Idol Saerin Jo caught in a whirlwind romance!

Last night when the press waited in front of YG building, Kai was seen carrying a sleeping Saerin in his arms. Insiders said that the two dated 5 years ago when the stars were in their teens and remained just as friends over the years. But looking at the photos last night it seemed that the two are dating again. What would YG and SM’s opinion on the matter? Isn’t it stated in the contracts that there will be no dating involved during the Universal KPOP Love Tour or else there will be sanctions? Kai and Saerin’s rep did not release a statement about the two being present at KPOP con later this afternoon at Myungdong.   However, netizens were divided into two as the one being in favor and the other being otherwise. As of now, Kai and Saerin’s people are on talks on resolving the matter giving the two a break to talk about the contract peacefully.

“SHIRO!” Saerin yelled. Kai thought his ears would bleed.

“I hate chicken and I hate your dark face you retarded Kkamjong!”

Kai smirked and scooted closer to her. He placed the food on the center table and cornered her on the edge of the couch.

“W-waeyo??” Saerin said nervously. She could feel her cheeks burning. She put her hand on his chest restraining him but it’s no use. Kai was putting his weight on her on purpose so that she won’t have the chance to push him away.

“Do you know that every time I hear a girl say I’m not that good-looking I don’t care ‘cause I know I can’t impress everyone…but hearing you say those bad things makes me want to convince you otherwise.” He said in a very low voice, his face leaning closer. “Are you sure you don’t want to eat…anyway I have other varieties to choose from. Do you want to try another?”

“O- um, I…I … sure” She said still pushing his chest away. “What do you got?”

“This.”

Saerin’s eyes widen in surprise when she felt his lips on hers. She was expecting him to let her go but kissing her was really a shock. She looked at his face that was attached to hers and realized how much he changed. He’s still handsome alright, but it was a different kind of handsome. It’s like he has grown and matured. When she felt his arm circle around her waist, she couldn’t help but give in. It was this kind of moments she missed the most; his gentle kisses that makes her want to melt, his touch and his warmth that comforts her into safety.  She kissed him back and pulled him closer. Her hand was on his neck and went to feel his hair.

“More?” He asked breathlessly when he broke off from the kiss.

“Yes,” She moaned and he kissed her again, with much passion this time. They were both enjoying each other when Saerin felt his hands get underneath her shirt to feel her chest. “Mmmm!” Saerin opened her eyes as realization hit her. She succeeded in pushing him and felt her bruised lips. Both of them were out of breath and Kai didn’t know what got to him and he lounged at in the first place.

“What the are you doing?” She said breathless, looking at him in disbelief. One moment this guy is as sweet as candy the next, he’s raging mad and aggressive as a beast.

“I’m sorry.” He panted.

“No you’re not.”

“Perhaps I’m not.” He scoffed and chuckled a little.

She watched as the guy stand up and picked up her food.

“If you won’t finish your meal next time, I’m not going to stop. I promise you Saerin Jo, all hell will break lose.” He challenged and walked upstairs to his room. “Call me if you need anything.” He sighed and she heard him closed his door.

Saerin stared at him in both amusement and relief. She swallowed a lump and closed her eyes. She still couldn’t believe she let him kiss her like that.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

                Kai let himself fall on the bed. He stared at the ceiling as he scuffle his hair in frustration. His conscience is suddenly talking…

                This is getting out of hand. Staying here is definitely a bad idea.

                But you badly want her for yourself. Isn’t this what you really wanted? Get her alone and talk and….

                No! Stop! The situation’s vulnerable right now. Stop thinking that Jongin! Aish!!!!

                Today was supposed to be their very first meeting with the fans as a unit. But after what happened last night, YG advised him to stay with her at the resort. While their friends were there getting busy with work, Kai and Saerin was punished by exile. (lol) He could still remember his phone conversation with YG the night before.

                “Do you have any idea who’s behind this? Isn’t your filthy president responsible for this? Tell me now kid or I’ll swear I’ll have both of your heads cut off first thing in the morning” YG was calm yet Kai could feel the anger in his voice.

                “Believe me sir, I’m innocent. I really can’t think of anyone who’d spread something like that. If it was the President then I don’t why he did it.”

                “Aish.”

                There was a long pause on the other line. Kai thought YG already hang-up until he spoke.

                “Ok. Here’s what you’re gonna do kid and you have to listen well. Tomorrow will be the official Press-con for the tour and I want the both of you to stay at the resort and clear things out with each other.”

                “C-clear things?”

                YG ignored him and continued.

                “You’ll have to make sure that she eats normal and that she’ll take her medicines on time. I’m not very confident that the fans will be very happy to see you and Saerin tomorrow and so am I. If there’s one thing that I’m sure of, it’s that…”

                “It’s what sir?” Kai said wondering why President Yang suddenly hesitated on the last word.

                “You’ll have to get the pain out of her Kai. Everything… I honestly don’t know what to do with her anymore. I think the only person who can bring herself back…is you.”

                YG sighed and felt his forehead.

                “So much has happened ever since…ever si”

                “Ever since Sami?” Kai said his voice broke at the mention of his son’s name.

                “You knew?”

                “I found out in London right after the party. I took Saerin back at her apartment and I eventually heard her talking in her sleep. After that I confirmed everything when Kyungsoo told me.”

                “I don’t understand. If that’s the case, then why didn’t you tell her? Do really want my niece to look like a fool!?” YG was angry now; he was gripping at his phone so hard the veins on his hand were appearing.

                “It’s not my intention to do that sir. I figured it was better if she’s the one to tell me that. I don’t want her to think that I pity her…that I only want her back because of what happened. It’s not at all like that sir. No. it’s very much far from that.”

                YG sighed and leaned his back on his seat. He was relieved to know that Kai wasn’t the guy he thought he was after all. A little smile appeared on his face as the thought that there might be a chance to get Saerin to be happy again. And he is very much looking forward to it.

                “Look Mr. Yang… I know I’ve been a coward but… I can’t afford to lose your niece again. I’ve come this far and I’m not giving up this opportunity to back off because this time I won’t have anyone take her away from me. Even you.”

                …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

                Kai thought he was really lucky to still know he was still breathing. He practically threatened YG last night. He didn’t even let the old guy answer because he ended the call right away. He looked at the cabinet in front of him and thought about running away but still, he thought it was still silly. One, Saerin might not want to cooperate right now and it’ll take time to convince her. Second, YG isn’t a good enemy.

                “ it,” He sighed and got up to make a call.

                “Yoboseo, Mr. Yang?”

                ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Meanwhile in Seoul….

                The cast of The Love Tour were all smiles as they answer questions from the press. But then, it wouldn’t be called a good Press-con if all questions have good intentions.

                “How long did Kai and Saerin dated back then?”

                Some guy said.

                “Pretty long.” Answered Kris.

                “How come the two of them aren’t here?”

                “It’s because you guys would pay more attention on them than the tour. Am I right?” Miyeon said. Suho gave her a fist bump.

                “There’s another rumor mill going, about Saerin having aborted a kid in the States. Is that the reason why they broke up?”

                “We will not take any questions regarding Kai and Saerin or else we will end the Press-con immediately.” The manager said.

                It was obvious that Exo and Pink Punk were in on a lot of tension.

                ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

                Saerin was eating brownies while watching Kai’s drama at the same time. She still couldn’t get that scene out of her head. She glanced on the couch she was sitting and decided to sit on the other. She paused the tv which landed on a close-up on Kai who was smirking confidently.

                “I can’t believe he got second base on me!”

“, , retarded sonnovabthc Kkamjong!”

“ So you think you’re that hot? I’ve kissed a lot of guys way better looking than you!” Saerin said talking to herself.

She was about to throw the TV the brownies but she stopped when she heard someone knock on the door.

“Ah, Finally I really need some reinforcements right now- Omo”

“So it’s really true. Oh thank God!”

It was Kai’s dad.

“A-ahjussi?” Saerin said and hugged Mr. Kim back.

“Oh look at you! You haven’t changed a bit. Still pretty as an angel. How many times would I have to tell you to call me Appa, huh?”

She smiled awkwardly and looked upstairs wishing Kai would get up already.

“Come on dear, I’ve brought some gimbap…this is for Kkamjong but I figured you’ll need it more since you look thinner. Are you sick or something child, you look pale. Is my son taking good care of you? You tell me if he doesn’t and I’ll show him proper treatment.”

“Appa?” Kai said surprised to see his Dad on the porch.

“O- Jonginah, you little punk. You didn’t even tell me that you and Saerin are back together! I could’ve brought your mother along with me.”

“Dad…um” He looked at Saerin and sighed.

“I’m telling you two, if you guys break up again it will be the death of me. Did you know how much stress you two caused your mother!? HA! If it weren’t for Lee Soo Man I would really kill you Kim Jongin!”

“What? What is SM had to do with this? And why are you here?”

“Kai, can we just invite him in first?” Saerin said giving him a disbelieving look.

“Arasseo.”

                “Aish, this kid.”

                ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

                “You sent Dad? Seriously?”

                “You said you needed a third party?”

                “Yeah but I was hoping it would be you, or Jiyong Hyung perhaps. You could’ve spared the old guy. Long trips stress him.”

                                Kai was talking to YG on the phone.

“You don’t get it kid. If it would be me or anyone from here who’s going there, Saerin would just think of a way to get away from you. And it wouldn’t be easy because she’s very manipulative. You can thank me later. Now I’m busy and I’m still thinking of cutting you out of the tour for hanging up on me last night with that lame threat. Take care of my niece now Mr. Kim.”

Kai looked at the phone and put it down the receiver. He went outside the backyard and saw Saerin and his father preparing food.

“Mmm… Son, come on let’s eat. You wouldn’t want to miss this.” Mr. Kim said pulling the chair beside Saerin for him.

They’ve said their graces and started to eat when Mr. Kim spoke.

“Who was that on the phone anyway?”

“Er…” He glanced at Saerin and back at his dad. “It’s President Yang.”

“Oh that clever old punk. Excuse me my dear but I think your Uncle can really get arrogant sometimes. Anyway speaking of Yang Hyun Suk, I’ve heard he’s settling down for a bit. Is this true dear? What happens if he steps out as President? Would you take over?”

Kai was unaware of this. And where did his dad got the idea, he did not know.

“Um, to be honest A-appa… He’s planning to give the company to me. You have to promise not to tell this to anyone but… after the Love Tour… I’m gonna retire from the entertainment industry.”

Kai almost puked at her last statement.

“Bwo?”

                “Yes Kai, you heard it right. Though, I’m still not sure if I’m going to accept his offer or I’m going to continue my studies in the States. It’s all still vague for me.”

                “What about Pink Punk?”

                “We’re going our separate ways. We’ve discussed this for over a month and everyone agreed that it’s high time for us to go solo.”

                Kai stared at her and chewed on his food.

                “I’ll get the drinks.” He said.

                “You must really love music to be able to give up something like show business.”

                “I guess music was just the one thing that’s able to make me understand some things.”

                Mr. Kim looked at her and smiled.

                “You know Saerin it’s never a crime to be afraid because everyone does. And for whatever reason, a person is a human being after all. He will continue to trip down and fall. But what you must understand is that running away only makes it worst. Problems become bigger if ignored.”

                “W-what are you talking about Appa. I’m not running away. It’s not that.”

                “Then why can’t you look at my son straight in the eye like you used to? Did you two fight or something? It looks like he doesn’t have an idea that you’re leaving.”

                “Appa…I was…we…I was going to tell him soon anyway.”

                “Don’t let an opportunity get away. You just got back together! I understand how passionate you are about music but do me a favor and continue to make him smile again. I’ve never seen my son glow like that in a long time so don’t leave so soon.”

                Mr. Kim reached for her hand and held it tight.

                “You love him right?”

                Saerin looked at Mr. Kim’s eyes and pursed her lips.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

                That afternoon, Mr. Kim thought it was a good day to go fishing so the three of them went by the shore to gear up.

                Kai and Saerin were watching the old man have fun by himself unhooking the fishes he caught.

                “He sure did improve a lot.” She stated amused of Kai’s father.

                “I know. It really looks impossible seeing how vegetative his state was back then. I was kind of wishing he’d return back to those quiet times, he can be quite annoying really.”

                He laughs as Saerin hit him on the sides.

                “What, it’s true. You see how talkative he was earlier? He’s worst than mom”

                Saerin couldn’t help but watch Kai laugh and smile while talking about his own father. When was the last time she saw him like this? She couldn’t remember.

                “Man, we should probably call it a day.” Kai said and turned to her. He was surprised to found her smiling and dozing off at his face. He almost smirked. “Saerin?”

                “Oh, right. Yeah…let’s go.”

                Kai watched as Saerin trailed off in front of him. He caught up with her on time when she tripped on a big seashell.

                “Are you okay?”

                “Yeah”

                “Come on.” He put his arm around her as they walk towards Mr. Kim. This time Saerin did not scold him.

                “I’ll bet 30 bucks that you’re thanking your father right now so you could take advantage of me.”

                “You’re cockiness is overwhelming… but it’s true. I owe you 30 then.” He smiled down and winked at her.                                                    

                “If we’re going along with this… then I’d say let’s go all the way.” He said and smirked meaningfully.

                “Kim Jongin your erted hormones are getting out of control again.”

                “I was talking about this.” Kai reached her right arm and wrapped it around his waist. “Now it’s more believable.”

                Saerin chuckled and shook her head.

                “You called me by full name by the way.” Kai said.

                “No I did not.”

                “Whatever. I love you too.”

                When they finally got to Mr. Kim, they found him struggling with the fishes.

                “Perfect…Jonginah can you give me a hand?”

                “Sure Dad”

                ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Song: Angel/EXO

                After dark, Mr. Kim bid the couple good bye and walked him into the bus waiting terminal. They watched as the bus went off and waved at Mr. Kim.

                “Saerin” Kai stopped and held her hand. “Can we stay this way forever?”

                She looked at his brooding eyes and remembered the question Mr. Kim asked her on the backyard. If she runs away now she will never know the answer. And maybe this time around, it’ll be much better.

                “How ‘bout… 8:00 sharp at Sok Chon?” She said and felt red all over.

                “Really? No kidding, you really want to go out?” If they weren’t in public, he would’ve kissed her by now.

                “Er, do you prefer to have a date inside? Of course I want to eat out.”

                “Okay, okay, don’t be mad. I was only asking.” He smiled delightfully at her showing all his teeth.

                “Stop it, your creeping me out.”

                With that, Saerin went first and walked ahead of him. She was smiling as she remembers her answer to Mr. Kim earlier.

                                “You love him right?”

                                Saerin looked at Mr. Kim’s eyes and pursed her lips.

                                “Yeah… Yes I still do.”

/this is a short chap. Sorry for updating only now. :)))) This story is nearing its end. Thanks for everyone who kept on reading :D