Monsant was closed for Christmas eve. The perimeter was secured by Jiyong’s security team so the couple could do whatever they please and not be disturbed by nosy customers and nasty paparazzi. Soft, quiet music was playing. Their guests haven’t arrived yet and the couple took advantage of the calm before the start of their Christmas eve party. They sat comfortably on the love seat facing the ocean with the setting sun sending soft trails of red, gold and blue lights across the water. The muted colors bathed Dara’s face in a soft light, highlighting further her quiet beauty as she turned her face towards the fading masterpiece in front of her. 

“It’s beautiful,” she sighed in contentment.

“Yes it is.” Jiyong agreed but he wasn’t looking at the sea. He then took something from his coat pocket and handed it to her. “Merry Christmas, Dee.”

Dara turned to look questioningly at him without opening the box first. “You didn’t tell me we’re giving our gifts now. I left mine inside.” She moved to get up but Jiyong tightened his embrace and lifted her to sit in between his legs. “No. Stay. Your gift can wait.” He settled his chin on to Dara’s shoulder and watched her open the gift box.

Centered on the box was a single safety pin earring with a two toned gold long-stemmed rose. She turned to Jiyong, slightly puzzled. “It isn’t a pair?”

“It’s a pair, of course.” He smiled cheekily and took out the necklace hidden under his shirt. He flashed her the other earring that was temporarily masquerading as his necklace’s pendant. Dara’s eyes widened in understanding.

“Someone’s bound to notice, Ji.” She protested half-heartedly but did not struggle when Jiyong took the earring and replaced the stud she was wearing on her left ear. 

“That’s exactly the point.” He answered matter-of-factly. 

Dara turned sideways to look him in the eye and see if he was as serious as he sounded and he did. Confusion clouded her eyes. “Why are you looking at me like that?” He asked.

“Are you out of your mind? If they find out, everyone’s going to start speculating again.” Dara told him.

“I want them to.” He shrugged. “I’m going to enlist soon. I’m going to ease them in to the fact that you are mine. This is just the beginning, Dee.” His face was serious as he said his statement.

“And you were planning to tell me this just now?” Dara rolled her eyes at him and elbowed him lightly on the stomach.

“I’m not giving you any chance to back out.” He felt disappointed after the sort of public kiss during Seungri’s Halloween party seemed as if it didn’t happen as not one picture or video made it to the newsstands. He didn’t plan the kiss but he was hoping that the pap’s for once could make themselves useful and do the initial announcement for him but just when h