Family Meeting
My Perfect Stranger 
I gathered the boys in the living room with me and Minho. We had some serious things to talk about. If we're going to be a family now, we have to run some things by the boys first because they deserve to have a say-so in this as well.
Though I know they love the idea of me and Minho being married, I don't know if they're ready for what comes with that.
"Umma~," whined Taemin, "we were in the middle of watching cartoons."
"Cartoons can wait. Me and Minho have some very important things we want to talk to you two about."
Minho cleared his throat. "First off, how would you feel about me living with you guys?"
Both of their eyes widened out of excitement. Jongin shouted, "That would be awesome!"
Taemin nodded. "We could hang with you everyday!"
Minho chuckled. "That's great, but there's the catch."
Then I continued, "How would you two feel about us moving to another house out of the city?"
Then both of their smiles magically disappeared. I had a feeling this would be difficult.
Taemin spoke solemnly. "Out of town? Like away from our friends?"
Taemin spoke, "Like away from Nana and Papa? Like away from uncle Hyun? Like going to a new school?"
Me and Minho simultaneously said, "Yes," answering all of their questions.
Taemin pouted. "I want to go to a new house, but not away from my friends."
Jongin crossed his arms and looked at the ground while whining, "I don't wanna move anymore. Why can't we stay here, umma?"
I felt bad. "Honey, this place is a bit crowded already just with the three of us. Wouldn't you like a bigger place with more space to run around."
Taemin sighed dramatically. "But why does it need to be out of the city? Why can't we find a home here? Oh! Some of my friends live in big houses. I can ask them!"
Minho smiled sympathetically. "That's nice of you, but your umma and I want this for all of us. We want to have a fresh start with a new home, new city, new school, and new family."
Jongin shook his head slowly. "I still don't like it."
"How about this? We can schedule times to visit friends and family. And you guys can have sleepovers so your friends can come over. How does that sound?" A glimmer of hope appeared in their eyes.
They both looked to me and Taemin spoke. "Really, umma? Will you let us do that?"
I looked at Minho before smiling at the boys. "Of course, sweetheart. As much as you want." I cringed internally at how much money I would waste paying for gas.
"Besides," said Minho, "we're not moving too far. It's just two towns over. It'll take about an hour to ride to and fro. So it's not so bad."
"You guys aren't even thinking about the fun part," I said to get them excited. "You get to help us pick the house!" I took out a magazine with some houses I circled that I was interested in. "We're going on a road trip today to look at these houses."
They perked up, "Road trip?!?!"
"Yes! Just get dressed and get your shoes, ok?"
They both hopped up and ran upstairs saying how excited they are for the 'road trip'.
Minho sighed and wrapped an arm around my shoulders. "Well, that went better than expected."
"Yeah... I kind of feel bad that they'll be leaving friends behind-"
"But I know they'll make new ones. It's not like they'll be transferring in the middle of the school year. We're moving there a couple of weeks before school starts so they'll have the rest of the summer to be with friends."
"You're right." I pecked his cheek and smiled. "I can't believe everything is finally starting to fall into place. About a year ago, my life was a living hell. I thought that I would be lonely forever, always being haunted by the ghost of ex's past." We both laughed before I continued. "But you came along and made my life a dream I don't want to wake up from."
He intertwined our fingers. "Aww." He kissed my lips. "Well, you don't have to worry about your past anymore. It took us a lot to get to this point and I'm not letting you go, Key. Ever. I love you."
I whispered, "I love you, too." We gave each other a lasting kiss before deciding to stand up to get ready for the trip.
It was an hour and a half drive. We would've gotten there sooner if the boys' bladders weren't the size of a dime.
Either way, we showed up on time to the first house. The realtor was standing outside with a big smile on his face. The house itself was beautiful. It was three stories, had two garages, and a pool in the back. Just by the look of it, I knew it was out of my price range, but we decided to go ahead with the tour.
The inside was just as beautiful as the outside. It was very spacious, modern looking, and high tech. It just didn't feel like a family home in my opinion.
"What's the selling price," asked Minho.
The realtor smiled as if he already had a buyer, "1.8 million dollars."
My eyes nearly shot out of my head. Jongin gasped, "Umma, that's a lot of zeros!"
"Yes, indeed."
The realtor looked troubled. "That's actually the lowest price offering on this house. I mean, you're a famous soccer player and you work in the entertainment business. I thought you two would be able to afford it."
"Actually, we can afford the house, but I would much rather not struggle the rest of my life to pay the mortgage on this house when I could settle in for something cheaper with extra spending money."
He nodded. "I understand. I'm sorry I was not able to be of service."
We thanked the man for the tour and got in the car. We went to three other houses but weren't satisfied.
One looked like a kiddie playhouse, and there was no way someone would take me seriously in a house like that. The boys loved it though for obvious reasons and even begged us to get it. However, I couldn't get ered in to something like that.
Next, we went to a house that I thought would be the house. I could already picture the decorations in my head. But Minho knocked me out of my dreamland when he pointed out to me that the boys didn't look comfortable. The more I noticed, the more I knew he was right, and I can't buy a house that my boys didn't feel great in.
Then we went to a house that looked like it used to be a dungeon. I didn't even set foot in there before telling the realtor that we weren't interested.
It wasn't until the last house that I knew we weren't making a mistake. The house was located in a beautiful and quiet suburb. There were children playing outside, so I knew that Jongin and Taemin wouldn't have a problem making friends. There were people jogging on the sidewalk, so I knew that it was at least safe enough to be out by ourselves. There was also a community playground and pool area located in the middle of the neighborhood.
We greeted the realtor and she gave us a tour. "This neighborhood has one of the lowest crime rates in South Korea, but if you ever feel unsafe, there's a group of people in the neighborhood who are involved in Neighborhood Watch. There's also an elementary and middle school located just about ten minutes from here. The high school is about 15 minutes away from here. Locals seem to find it to be a very convenient place to stay."
I asked, "Do you know this community well?"
"Well, I've been trying to sell this house for about five months. During that time, I became accustomed to this neighborhood. I witnessed the ins and outs of what goes on from a first hand experience. They have community pool parties, neighborhood Halloween parties, scavenger hunts, and even community service such as picking up trash off the sidewalk. This is a very involved community and if that's something you like, you'll really enjoy it."
We continued the tour. To be honest, the house felt just like home. I got the same vibe from it as the vibe at my apartment, which is a good thing. The house felt comfortable. It was a two story home with carpet, a garage, four bedrooms, a huge living room, etc. The boys seemed to be enjoying everything as well. They had big smiles on their faces. This could only mean one thing.
Minho asked the realtor about the price. "The lowest I'll take on it is $985,000. I'll give you guys some privacy to talk over it." The boys went with her, leaving me and Minho alone.
"Key, we need to find something else. I know there are cheaper houses out here."
I shook my head. "No, this house is perfect. Can't you feel it? Can't you see it? This is an opportunity we can't pass up."
"I see what you're saying, but $985,00 is exactly $15,000 away from a million. That's just too much money to pay for a house."
"But we have enough money, Minho. I know we do. I don't think we'll find any other offer better than this one. We can't just think about the price. We have to think about the boys as well. This is a perfect neighborhood for them. Don't you think?"
He sighed. "Yes, but the price-"
"Ugh, what price were you hoping for?"
"I was hoping to pay somewhere between $750,000 or lower."
I giggled. "You're so cheap. You're forgetting that we're splitting the pay. You're not going to be the only one paying off this house. I have a job too."
"I know, Key. I know."
It was time for me to start using my charm. I pouted. "Honey~, I really want this house. I can already picture us running around in here with our own little family." I wrapped my arms around his neck. "Please?"
He placed his hands on my waist before sighing. "Ok, BUT, if we have any struggles paying off this house, it's going to be on you, Kibum. Meaning if we're late paying something, it's coming out of your paycheck, not mine. Are we clear?"
I giggled and saluted him, "Yes, sir!" He smiled and pecked me on the lips.
We walked to the kitchen area where the realtor had cookies out for the boys to eat.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't know if you allowed your children to eat sweets, but they insisted."
I waved her off. "It's fine. They're quite persuasive," I laughed.
Minho cleared his throat. "Before deciding whether to buy this house, I need to know that we won't get screwed over in the future. Realtors are known for being sly."
I elbowed him, "Minho-"
"No, it's ok," said the realtor. "It's actually a good question. Everything stated in the agreement form is clearly set in stone. There's no fine print or loopholes hidden anywhere. There's even a statement in the contract that says if you feel as if there was a problem, you have the right to take legal actions. I'm not the sly realtor people label me as. I'm actually a very honest person. So you have nothing to worry about."
I smiled. "See, Honey. Nothing to worry about."
"I did forget to mention one thing though. Most of the amenities, including dishwasher, fridge, washer/dryer, microwave, are yours to keep for free if you decide to buy this house."
My brows lifted out of surprise. "Really?!"
"Yeah. The past owners had a death in the family and doesn't want to be reminded of anything relating to the person who died. So they agreed to leave behind everything besides things like furniture or clothing."
"Wow. That's amazing. I mean, it's sad for the family, but great that these things come with the house!"
"Exactly. So what do you think? Will you buy the house?"
The boys looked towards me expectantly as did the same to Minho. I may be an adult, but I put my trust in Minho. So I want him to feel just as good as I do about the house.
After a moment of silence, he looked towards me and smiled before nodding. "Yes, we'll be the house." The boys jumped up and down in excitement.
Minho shook hands with the realtor and so did I. "Thank you guys so much! I'm sure you'll love the house! In about another week, after proper paperwork is signed and processed, you'll get the key to the house and be free to begin settling in. I can either mail it to you or you can set up and appointment to come and get it."
I spoke. "Mailing is fine. We live about an hour away and it'll take a lot to drive here just to get a key."
"Alright, perfect! I hope you enjoy your new house."
We decided to go out to eat in the new town before heading home. People were amazed when they saw me and Minho set foot in the restaurant. I guess they're not used to seeing celebrities around here.
Still, I liked the vibe I got there. People were so friendly and didn't judge me based on what the media said. There were a few people who asked Minho for his autograph, but we didn't get annoyed because it wasn't nearly as many people that come up to him in Seoul. I could really see myself getting used to this.
"So Jongin and Taemin," said Minho, "how do you like the house?"
Jongin spoke, "It's so big! I like it."
"Me too," said Taemin. "But, umma, I have a question."
"About what?"
"Well, the lady said its four bedrooms in there. Does that mean that me and Jongin will have our own room?"
I tensed up. I didn't know if it would be something they'd want, but it would be a good idea so they can have space.
"That's what I would want for you two. Is that what you guys want?"
There was a pause before they both said, "Of course!"
Taemin spoke, "I've been waiting FOREVER to have my own room. Sometimes Jongin is smelly."
Jongin whined. "Hey~, you're the smelly one, buttface!"
I snickered. "Yah, stop arguing. I'm happy you guys are ok with having your own room. That's good."
"Do you think we'll make new friends?"
"I'm positive of it."
Minho spoke, "I actually have a question for you, Key. How are you going to work now?"
"Well, I requested a change of office. Meaning if things go well, I'll be able to work from home. You know, draw sketches of designs and send them to companies. Or I'll occasionally ride to Seoul to do makeup. That's what I hope will happen. What about you?"
"Well, my job is at the stadium nearly everyday. I don't have a problem driving, though it will take a toll. It's just a sacrifice I'll have to make. Honestly, I've been thinking about changing career paths as well."
"Oh, really? To what?"
"It'll still be in the sports field. I just want to do something like commentating or even become a coach myself. But commentating would probably be a wiser decision financially."
Jongin gasped, "You're not going to play soccer anymore?"
Minho smiled towards him. "Yes I'll still play soccer. Hmm, I never thought about commentating and soccer. I could commentate on my off seasons. Wow, that actually makes sense."
"But honey," I rubbed his forearm, "Wouldn't you be tired? I don't want you over exerting yourself. I want you to be healthy and happy."
"But I will be happy, Key. Knowing that I'll be providing for my family will make me a happy man. As long as there's a roof over our head, I'm always happy. I love you guys so much and I would do anything to keep us all happy."
"Awww~," I leaned in and kissed him.
Then we heard, "Ewww," from the boys. We all let out laughs and continued eating out food.
We headed home once we were done. The boys were fast asleep while me and Minho kept our eyes on the road. There was something bothering me that I needed an answer to. Maybe it was just me thinking too much, but I needed confirmation.
"Minho?"
"Yeah, baby?"
"Umm, I have a question."
"Go ahead."
"I mean, it's kind of silly. I-I don't know why I'm asking, but-"
"You can ask me anything, Key. I'm listening."
I sighed. "Ok, well. Um, do you think we're moving kind of fast?"
His eye flickered to me for an instant before going back to the road. "Um. I never really gave it much thought. Why do you ask?"
"I......don't know."
"Do you think we're moving too fast?"
I groaned. "I don't even know. I told you it was a silly question."
"It's not a silly question, Key. I want to know how you feel. Please, tell me."
"Honestly, I feel like my whole life is stuck on fast forward. First, I get pregnant early, then I go through heartbreak early, then I meet you and introduce you to my kids early, now within a year we're engaged and looking for houses. Wouldn't that make you feel kind of weird?"
"Now that you put it that way, I see why you would ask that question. Your life has been a roller coaster. But in my opinion, we haven't moved too fast. I mean, my parents were married after their third date. They've been married for about 28 years now. There's hope for us, Key. Just because our life isn't as perfect as TV makes a relationship seem, that doesn't mean that we're not doing things the right way. We're doing things our way. Ok?"
I nodded. "I just needed a little confirmation. Thanks."
He smirked. "No problem."
We arrived home a little later. The boys were still tired and went straight to bed. It wasn't late at night but it was late in the evening. I begged Minho to stay, of course. After spending a day like this with him, there's no way I would want to separate.
We cuddled in the bed as I reflected our day. "Thanks again, Minho. I know how much you wanted to keep looking for houses, but you made a sacrifice for the family. "
"Yeah, yeah," he teased. "You're just happy you got what you wanted."
I chuckled. "That's partially correct."
He kissed my nose lightly. "You're such a brat. But I still love you."
"I'm only a brat because you spoil me with so much love."
"Oh? So should I stop loving you so much?"
I tightened my hold on him. "No. I love the way you love me. Never stop, ok?"
He smiled down at me. "Of course I won't." Then he leaned down and kissed me passionately.
It didn't take me long to become aroused. I straddled him as I continued to kiss him. I could feel myself instantly getting hard.
Before I could get to the fun stuff, Minho pulled away and turned me around so that he was back hugging me.
I whined. "Minho, what the hell?!"
"That's for making me break my wallet today," he said smugly.
"So you get me , then pull away and not finish things? Oh, you're so cruel!"
"I love you too. Goodnight, Kibum."
"Whatever."
Ok, I know it's been awhile since I've updated, BUT I CAN EXPLAIN! School, volunteering, and exams are soon. Oh my. But I didn't forget about you guys. I hope you all enjoyed ^.~
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