Two years later…

Jan Di was busy packing up a series of boxes in the bedroom. Ji Hoo, Grandfather, the children, and she were moving today to a larger house in the countryside outside of Seoul. It had been a tough decision to move, and they knew it would involve some commuting for work, but their family was growing in age and size. And they wanted a bigger space, particularly a yard for the kids to play in.

Ji Hoo and Jan Di were in the process of adopting Ha-Joon, whose aunt had fallen ill and had become unable to care for him. Ji Hoo couldn't stand to see Ha-Joon sent to an orphanage, so he and Jan Di discussed it and decided to adopt him themselves.

Woo Bin's company had overseen the construction of the new home Ji Hoo had commissioned to be built for his family. It was not far, in a more rural setting on the outskirts of the city, but still in range of major transportation. The home sat on 25 acres in a mountainous area and was surrounded by a veil of pine and oak trees, giving them privacy. They'd also put in a play-set for the kids in the backyard.

Jan Di was in love with this house; Ji Hoo teased that she loved the house more than him, but it felt like it was right out of a dream.

The large stone home was the perfect mix of modern and traditional, with broad floor-to-ceiling windows, 8 bedrooms, 4 baths, an expansive library, and a music room. The home had been decorated throughout with Ji Hoo's collection of famous works of art, such as Da Vinci's "La Scapigliata," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," and Monet's "Water Lilies," and of course a collection of art involving the lotus, including a painting by Chinese artist Zhang Daqian gifted by Ji Hoo's friend Ming for their wedding. It had been very thoughtful of Ming, but Jan Di was still not so fond of the guy. And he was certainly not so fond of her. Although Ming practically worshipped Ji Hoo, he'd never liked Jan Di, and he made that very clear. Jan Di was thankful that Ji Hoo had chosen to keep their spontaneous Macau trip a secret from Ming.

Jan Di had originally thought the new house to be too large, having grown up in a much, much smaller place, and it was bittersweet to leave their first home. But, she had come around to the idea of a peaceful, quieter life in their beautiful new home.

Seok-young was 4 and Mee-Yon was 3 now, and the children were both attending Shinwha Nursery School together. Jan Di had tried to be strong but had cried when they went off to nursery school. Seok-young would be going to kindergarten next year, and Jan Di knew she would be an emotional mess over that, too. Jan Di felt happy, though, that Seok-young would likely have Ga Eul as his teacher next year.

Despite their children's privileged lives, Jan Di and Ji Hoo were adamant about them not being spoiled, so they didn't give them everything they wanted. And above all, Jan Di and Ji Hoo worked hard to teach them respect and kindness for others.

Jan Di was currently specializing in Pediatrics and Obstetrics, and despite the late night pages to deliver babies, she was very happy with her work. She still worked at the Clinic, but she was often at the hospital to check up on patients or to deliver babies.

Director Hwang had retired and made Dr. Jang the new director. He'd originally offered it to Ji Hoo, but Ji Hoo had politely turned him down, preferring to be more hands-on and to have more time with his family. Dr. Jang and Dr. Baek had managed to rekindle their romance and were currently in a serious dating relationship.

It had taken some convincing, but Grandfather had finally retired. He had been bored at first, but now he was enjoying taking fishing trips and playing with his great-grandkids. When Grandfather retired, Ji Hoo took over the Clinic with the assistance of Jan Di and a new doctor. Ji Hoo had willingly handed over his mantle to Seong-Ho, who had toned down the cockiness, slightly, over the past few years. Jan Di still found him to be a pain when he crossed her path, but she knew that deep down he was a decent guy.

Joon Pyo and Alex, and Woo Bin and Ji-Hye were married now.

Joon Pyo and Alex's engagement had been a short one. Seeking to avoid Madam Kang's interference, Joon Pyo had whisked the group, meaning Alex, F3, Jan Di, Ga Eul, Ji-Hye, and a few others off to Maldives for his wedding. He did end up including his family, but it was on his terms. Joon Pyo had begun to take more control of his life.

Jan Di recalled the wedding being very beautiful. Despite it being a small wedding for Joon Pyo, it was lavish. They were married on a white sandy beach under a series of arches dressed with garland and flowers and surrounded by gorgeous turquoise waters. And then the group ate, danced, laughed, and walked along the shore of the shimmering azure "Sea of Stars" of Vaadhoo Island.

The Shinwha Heir, Goo Jun-Seo, came along not long after. Jun Seo was 1 now, and Alex had another one on the way. Despite their burgeoning family, Joon Pyo and Alex had managed to turn Shinwha into an even greater worldwide entity, if that was even possible. They were certainly a power couple; they just seemed to fit together, and they were truly in love. Jan Di was very happy for them.

Woo Bin had fulfilled his duty to marry the woman chosen for him, but he was fortunate to have fallen in love with her along the way. Ji-Hye and Woo Bin were married in a large, traditional ceremony at home, arranged by the Song family. Jan Di had been surprised to see F4's Don Juan settle down, but he seemed very happy. Woo Bin and Ji-Hye also had a one-year old son now, Song Il-Hun, and another child on the way, too.

Yi Jeong and Ga Eul's twin girls, So Eun-Jeong and So Yeong-Hui, were 3 now, like Mee-Yon, and the Sos also had a 14-month old son named So Jae-Jin. And Ga Eul and Yi Jeong were as crazy in love as ever.

Jan Di was really happy for all of her friends…

Jan Di continued to reminisce about the past two years of their lives, which had gone by in a blur. It had been a whirlwind of weddings, babies, special occasions, and milestones. It had been a hectic but happy two years, with many laughs, lots of hugs, some tears, and tons of love. Jan Di had no idea when she entered Shinwha High 10 years ago that her life would take the twists and turns it had to lead her to where she was now.

Jan Di smiled to herself, as she thought back upon those days and upon the clumsy, awkward, temperamental weed of a girl she'd been. She never imagined then that she would achieve such happiness.

Jan Di was so caught up in her wave of nostalgia that her mind and body became out of sync. She let out a cry of surprise when she tripped over her own slippered feet and took a tumble over a pile of boxes. "Oww," she muttered, rubbing her foot.

Ok, so perhaps she was still a bit clumsy…

Hearing the emergency bell and the commotion, Ji Hoo rushed into the bedroom. There he found Jan Di, sitting on the floor amidst a sea of boxes and rubbing her ankle.

"What has happened to my otter?" he gently demanded.

Jan Di chuckled, "Oh, I just tripped is all," she shrugged her shoulders.

Ji Hoo tightened his jaw and went to her, "You need be more careful, my love…"

He bent down, reaching out for her. Jan Di thought he was going to offer his hand, but instead he scooped her up and carried her over to the bed. She smiled tenderly, as she wrapped her arms around his neck. He sat her on the bed and knelt before her, taking her injured foot between both hands.

"This isn't necessary, Ji Hoo-yah. It's probably just a sprain, at worst… See, I can move it…," she rotated her foot for him.

"Just making sure…," he wore a serious expression, as he put light pressure upon her ankle in several spots, "Does that hurt?"

Jan Di winced ever so slightly, "Not much… You're entirely too protective, you know? You need to work on that," Jan Di replied with a wry smile.

"And you are entirely too clumsy, my love…you need to work on that," he grinned, and Jan Di smirked in response.

"And a bit too attentive sometimes, too… You really don't have to…," she began, as Ji Hoo continued his overly thorough examination

"I thought you liked my attention…," he replied.

"I do…," she smiled down at him. Ji Hoo looked up into her eyes and returned the smile.

After finishing his exam, Ji Hoo released a sigh, "Well, it should be OK. It's just sprained, and the swelling isn't too bad."

"Told you," Jan Di grinned, as she sat on the bed in her tiny shorts, her feet dangling.

"But to be on the safe side…," Ji Hoo stood and ordered her to elevate it while he went for an ice pack.

Ji Hoo returned and sat down on the bed next to her. He placed the wrapped ice pack upon her propped up ankle. "You really do need to be more careful," he gently scolded, "And why are you moving boxes in your slippers?"

"Um, well…," Jan Di shrugged, having no good answer for him.

Ji Hoo sighed and shook his head, his hand resting protectively on her leg. Then, his lips curved into a playful smile, as he began to run his hand up her bare leg. Jan Di smacked it when he reached her mid-thigh. "Ji Hoo-yah!"

"What?" he gave her an expression of mock hurt.

"There's no time for that…and besides, the kids are in the next room…," she whispered.

Ji Hoo groaned in frustration, "I know, you're right…" He placed one hand on the other side of her and leaned over her slightly, being cautious of her ankle.

"But, how about a kiss? That's my fee for the exam," he grinned at her.

Jan Di pursed her lips, thought for a moment, and then nodded. "That seems like a reasonable rate," and she wrapped her hands around his neck.

"You know I love you…," they simultaneously spoke and then laughed together at the timing. They exchanged an affectionate smile, and Ji Hoo's head dipped to meet Jan Di's lips. She tightened her embrace upon his neck, and his hands gravitated to her waist. He wrapped her up tightly, pulling her against his chest, as he moved his lips over hers.

They were suddenly interrupted by the four-year-old voice of Seok-young, sounding appalled and disgusted, "Ewwwww! Eomma, Appa!" Seok-young shouted desperately.

Ji Hoo and Jan Di broke apart to see both of their children standing before them. Seok-young was clutching at his eyes and had turned Mee-Yon away, to shield her from the view of their parents' affection.

"I told you…," Jan Di whispered to Ji Hoo.

Ji Hoo left Jan Di and knelt before Seok-young. "It's OK. You can look now, Seok-young. Mianhae."

Seok-young dropped his small hands from his eyes and turned to Ji Hoo, looking at him with wide, innocent eyes. "But, one of these days you're going to like girls, son, and that won't seem so gross to you," Ji Hoo informed.

Seok-young scowled in response and exclaimed, "No, never! I'll never like girls, Appa!"

"What about Eomma, Seok-y?" Jan Di asked, with a slight pout.

"I like Eomma. Just Eomma," Seok-young then ran to Jan Di and wrapped his arms around her neck.

"What about your sister?" Jan Di motioned to Mee-Yon who looked like she was about to burst into tears. Ji Hoo took Mee-Yon in his arms and pressed a kiss to the fringe of her bangs.

"I like Mee-Yon-ah, too," Seok-young smiled over at his sister, who sniffled and beamed back at him.

"Eomma, OK?" Seok-young asked, noticing the ice pack on her leg.

"Yes, Seok-y," Jan Di smiled and placed a kiss upon her mini firefighter's cheek.

Later that day, the Yoons made the move to their new home, with the assistance of F3. F3 had initially made a fuss about it when Jan Di tried to enlist their help, saying she should have just hired movers. But, Jan Di was a hard-working, independent girl, and she appreciated those qualities in others. Jan Di always tried to do things on her own whenever possible, and she felt that with a few extra hands, she and Ji Hoo could manage it on their own.

Joon Pyo had informed Jan Di that F4 should not be reduced to manual labor, but Jan Di reminded him of their efforts on the nursery and of what a beautiful job they'd done. And then, Jan Di decided to appeal further to their egos. She put on her best charm, questioning why she needed to hire movers when she knew such big, strong—handsome—men. Woo Bin had eaten that up. Yi Jeong flashed his pearly grin, knowing full well what she was up to, but being the kind person he was, he agreed to it anyway. If he hadn't he would have surely gotten an earful from Ga Eul, anyway. Joon Pyo put up a huge fuss, but it was obvious he was going to help out all along.

After settling into the house for the night, the exhausted family readied for bed. Jan Di and Ji Hoo tucked in the kids, after they bid goodnight to their great-grandfather.

"Sto-wy! Eomma, Appa, stowy, stowy," Mee-Yon began chanting, "Pweeease!"

Jan Di smiled and translated for Ji Hoo, "She wants a story." Ji Hoo gave a short laugh and nodded.

"Would you like to do the honors?" Jan Di asked of Ji Hoo.

"It would be my pleasure."

Though Seok-young was thrilled to have his own room finally, he also wanted a story, so he hopped into the large bed—decorated by frilly pink pillows, dancing princesses, and stuffed animals galore—and laid down between his father and younger sister. Jan Di pulled the ribbons from Mee-Yon's short dark pigtails and placed them on her ivory dresser. Then, she joined her family. Ji Hoo was on the left side; Seok-young and Mee-Yon were in the middle, and Jan Di was on the right side next to Mee-Yon. And Fluffy lay at the foot of the bed.

Ji Hoo turned to Mee-Yon. "Baby, which story would you like?" Mee-Yon put a finger to her chin and thought for a moment before asking for her appa to tell her a story.

"Oh, alright, hm, let me see…," Ji Hoo raised his eyes skyward and thought about it. Then, he laid back and put his arm around the three of them.

"Once upon a time…," Ji Hoo began, "There was a girl…," he looked at Jan Di and smiled.

"Was she a princess?" Mee-Yon asked, as she clutched her stuffed otter and snuggled in.

Ji Hoo thought for a moment, "Yes, she was a princess, come to think of it," Mee Yon-ah.

"Was the princess Eomma?" Mee-Yon asked.

Ji Hoo grinned, "You are so smart, my little lotus. Yes, the princess was your eomma."

Seok-young made a face. "Not a princess story, Appa…"

"Don't worry, Seok-y, you'll like this story, too," Ji Hoo replied.

Another Three Years Later

Jan Di was rushing to prepare dinner. Her insides were tied in ribbons from nervousness and excitement, for this evening was Seok-young's first piano recital. And Ji Hoo, Grandfather, and Seok-young had gone on a weekend fishing trip and were not home yet. And the recital was in 2 hours!

"Aish, where are they?" Jan Di gave a frustrated sigh. She turned, and without warning, came face to chin with a whiskered catfish. Jan Di shrieked in surprise, as Seok-young appeared holding up the smelly fish in her face. Ji Hoo and Grandfather were standing in the kitchen, chuckling at her reaction.

Jan Di shot a warning glance to her husband and Grandfather.

"Eomma, look what I caught!" Seok-young excitedly exclaimed.

"Oh, ye, that's wonderful, Seok-y," Jan Di patted him on the head.

"Will you cook it for us?" he asked, as he handed his mother the line holding the fish.

Jan Di nodded, "Mm, but you three need to hurry up and get cleaned up for dinner!" she put her hands on her hips.

"Annyeong, my love," Ji Hoo waved. Grandfather also greeted Jan Di with a smile and a chuckle.

"Where have you been?!" JanDi demanded rather than greeting them back, "I was getting worried!"

"Mianhae, my love. We were having so much fun that we lost track of time," Ji Hoo explained before approaching her. Jan Di sighed and placed her hands on her aproned hips. When he got close, Ji Hoo tested the waters and leaned in slowly, not sure if he'd get a kiss or not given the annoyed expression she wore. Jan Di pulled back slightly and pointed to the next room, which he understood to mean that he needed to go and get cleaned up so they would not be late.

Ji Hoo gave Jan Di a sorrowful expression and ran his hand down her arm, his eyes asking for a kiss first. Jan Di sighed in frustration but then softened. Ji Hoo leaned in once more. He stopped and glanced to Seok-young, "Look away, son, I'm going to kiss your eomma." Seok-young immediately covered his eyes.

Ji Hoo leaned in once more, but Jan Di pulled back just as his lips were about to meet hers, and she looked to Seok-young. Ji Hoo sighed.

"What are you still doing down here, young man? Go on upstairs and take a bath! We have to eat quickly before your piano recital, so hurry up Yoon Seok-young!" Jan Di ordered Seok-young upstairs. "Yes, Eomma," he replied.

"And don't put on your tuxedo until after dinner!" she called up after him.

Before she could say another word, Ji Hoo caught Jan Di by the waist and pressed his lips to hers. Grandfather took that as his cue to exit.

"Hi…," he whispered, when their lips parted. Jan Di gave a pleasurable sigh, "Hi yourself…," she murmured. Ji Hoo ran his hands up and down her back.

"…You need to get cleaned up, too. You smell like fish," Jan Di teased. She pulled back while attempting to push Ji Hoo away, but he held her tight and kissed her again. "…You're procrastinating…," she said after they broke apart, "If this is your plan to get off the hook—no pun intended—for being hmm…," she glanced up at the clock on the wall, "Five hours late, then it won't work…"

"It's not. And I will get cleaned up, but I just missed you," he nuzzled noses with her.

"Well, I missed you, too, but we'll be…," Jan Di muttered breathily, losing her train of thought when Ji Hoo began trailing soft, lingering kisses down her neck.

"We…won't…be…late," he finished her thought for her between kisses, "We have plenty of time… Just one more…," Ji Hoo leaned in again, their foreheads touching and his lips hovering in wait.

"You're evil," she joked. Ji Hoo gave a short laugh before claiming her lips once more. And Jan Di surrendered to him, wrapping her arms around his neck, as he deepened the kiss.

When they finally broke free, Jan Di shoved Ji Hoo off toward the stairs.

Seok-young's first piano recital went off without a hitch. Their family and friends were all there to support him, and Jan Di and Ji Hoo watched proudly while their son, completely poised and dressed all in white, played each note of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, Bagatelle No. 25, and Chopin's Nocturne No. 8 in D Flat Major to perfection.

That same year, Jan Di and Ji Hoo enrolled Mee-Yon in private swimming lessons and put in an indoor pool in their home for her to practice in. Mee-Yon had been eager to dive right in, without a drop of fear, and like her mother, she took to the water like a fish. Jan Di felt a hint of nostalgia; she missed the water, but it brought joy to her that Mee-Yon loved swimming so much.

Another Eight Years Later…

Jan Di and Ji Hoo had just returned from doing relief work in Algeria for a year with the Doctors Without Borders program, and they had yet to see their family and friends, so they had invited them over for dinner. It was the very beginning of fall and the weather was still nice, so they had decided to eat alfresco.

Jan Di was busy preparing food, with the help of her mother, rushing between the kitchen and the back patio. Jan Di's father was chatting with Ji Hoo about the dry cleaning business and about Ji Hoo and Jan Di's recent endeavor. Jan Di's brother was married now and was there with his wife and their two year old daughter. Kang San took a seat with the men, while his wife wandered into the kitchen to help out her unnie, Jan Di.

Il-Bong simply ooed and ahhed over Ji Hoo's account of his and Jan Di's experience in Algeria, while Kang San talked more in-depth with Ji Hoo about the politics and the fate of the people there. He'd been keeping up with it on the internet and had skyped with Jan Di and Ji Hoo a few times when they were able to get wifi.

Joon Pyo and Alex arrived with their 12-year-old son, Jun-Seo, and their nearly 11-year-old daughter, Ju-Mi.

Ji Hoo excused himself and approached the Goos. Ji Hoo smiled at Alex and gave her a delicate hug, as she was currently 6 months pregnant, and congratulated her. Ji Hoo then greeted the Goo children, giving Jun Seo's hair a tousle and telling Ju-Mi how pretty she looked.

Goo Jun Seo was tall and lean, with thick, curly onyx hair, and dark eyes. And Ju-Mi was the spitting image of her mother but possessing silky curls that reached down to her shoulders. Jun-Seo and Ju-Mi greeted and bowed to their Uncle Ji Hoo.

Joon Pyo approached Ji Hoo and slugged him in the arm. "About time you came back!" Joon Pyo complained. Ji Hoo chuckled, "Did you miss me, Joon Pyo?"

"Aish, no way! It was just time you got your back here!"

Ji Hoo and Joon Pyo exchanged a smile and clasped hands.

Next, Woo Bin and Ji-Hye arrived with their son, Song Il-Hun, age 12, and their daughter, Song Hye-Mi, age 11. Song Il-Hun was tall with wavy, sable hair. He had a handsome face and his father's prominent cheekbones. Song Hye-Mi was tall, thin, and delicate, yet strong. She had hair of similar color and texture to her brother's but touching her mid-back.

"Yo, what up everybody?" Woo Bin greeted out loud and then exclaimed, "There he is!" upon noticing Ji Hoo. Woo Bin rushed to Ji Hoo and captured him in a rough man-hug, both smiling widely. "Yo, my brotha, you return, finally!" Ji Hoo chuckled and clapped Woo Bin on the back.

Then, Yi Jeong and Ga Eul arrived with their twin girls, Eun-Jeong and Yeong-Hui, ages 14, their son, Jae-Jin, age 12 ½ and their other daughter Ae-Jeong, age 10.

So Eun-Jeong and So Yeong-Hui had grown very beautiful. They had long, straight, raven hair, chocolate eyes, and perfectly-dimpled porcelain faces. Eun-Jeong was the eldest of the So twins, by three minutes, as she so informed everyone. Jae-Jin was a gorgeous boy, possessing a sweet baby-face and wispy boyish bangs. Ae-Jeong was beginning to greatly resemble her twin unnies but possessed more of her father's features than her mother's.

Jan Di and Ga Eul exchanged happy squeals upon seeing one another, and Jan Di rushed to Ga Eul. A pregnant Ga Eul waddled over to meet her best friend, and she and Jan Di hugged and gushed about how much they'd missed one another. Then, Jan Di immediately ordered Ga Eul to sit down and relax.

Ji Hoo and Yi Jeong smiled over at their wives, and Yi Jeong approached Ji Hoo, wearing a brilliant smile.

"Hey, Chingu," Yi Jeong greeted Ji Hoo, as they clasped hands and gave each other a manly hug, "Nice to have you back on Korean soil."

Ji Hoo smiled, "Nice to be back. And congratulations, by the way."

Yi Jeong smiled and thanked him. Ji Hoo asked a few doctor-like questions before stopping himself and apologizing with a chuckle.

"How was Algeria?" Yi Jeong asked, and Ji Hoo began recounting the experience once more.

Then, the men and women split off into their respective groups and all gathered together. And it was happy chaos at the Yoon household, with talking, smiles, and hugs all around.

Jan Di, Gong-Joo, and the women finished preparing the meal of kimbap, mandoo, shrimp summer rolls, Jan Di's special rolled egg omelettes, potato salad, and japgwapyon, and laid it out on several long tables that had been set up in the backyard of the Yoon estate. And everyone began to sit down to dinner.

Jan Di called Seok-young for dinner, but he was nowhere in sight. "Where is that boy?" she asked, folding her arms.

"He's probably in the woods playing his violin," Ji Hoo commented.

"I'll find him, Aunt Jan Di!" Eun-Jeong volunteered, more eagerly than she'd intended. Yeong-Hui shot her a curious glance, which Eun-Jeong decided to completely ignore. Eun-Jeong glanced to her parents for permission to go off on her own. Ga Eul and Yi Jeong nodded, and Jan Di thanked her. Then, Eun-Jeong strode off in search of the red-haired enigma.

Seok-young and Eun-Jeong had always gotten along, and she was fond of him... But she worried that they were beginning to drift apart as they got older…

Seok-young had just returned from a two-year program at a prestigious music boarding school; she hadn't seen him in nearly two years, and she had to admit—to herself only—that she missed him.

When Eun-Jeong's Aunt Jan Di and Uncle Ji Hoo returned from Algeria, they had gone to visit Seok-young. Eun-Jeong had wanted to ask her eomma and appa to go along, too, but she thought that might seem a little…weird.

As Eun-Jeong wandered through the woods of the Yoon estate, her ears were met by a soft, alluring melody, and she knew it could only be coming from one person… The haunting music grew louder as she approached, and then she saw Seok-young, standing amidst the colorful trees. And the sight of him stopped her dead in her tracks….

He was dressed all in white, in a sweater, vest, and slacks, and surrounded by a veil of reds and goldens that almost perfectly matched his tawny hair. A ray of sunlight suddenly cast itself upon his face, illuminating his flawless features.

Seok-young was a beautiful boy; Eun-Jeong had never noticed that before, despite having heard many adoring girls whisper about him. Perhaps she never noticed because she'd always been something of a tomboy. Or, perhaps she'd always thought of him as her Seok-young Oppa only… But now, something was different…

Eun-Jeong could not help but stare in awe, and she felt utterly ridiculous. She hid behind a tree, in order to listen and watch a bit longer.

His concentration was impeccable, as he continued to play without even noticing her, the look upon his face suggesting that he was completely immersed in his own musical world.

Eun-Jeong felt a blush creep upon her cheeks, like a changing season, and her heart gave a flutter.

What is this feeling…? She put a hand to her chest in attempt at easing the sudden thumping she felt.

She moved slightly, snapping a twig underneath her boot. It gave off a loud off-key crunch that was certainly not part of the piece he was playing. Eun-Jeong scoffed at herself and shut her eyes tight before reluctantly emerging from behind the large oak to present herself, "Annyeong, Seok-young Oppa."

Seok-young was simply staring at her. Eun-Jeong's cheeks heated up further at being caught. "You interrupted my concert," he said, incredulous, "What were you doing back there?"

She bowed to him, "Mianhae, Oppa…I was just…," she began, but then she put on a haughty look and placed her hands upon her hips, "Wait, what concert? There's no one here! …Unless you were playing for the trees!"

He smirked, "Maybe I was…"

"You're so weird…," Eun-Jeong grinned but then immediately clasped a hand over . That was rude… Her eomma had taught her to always be polite, and despite her familiarity with Yoon Seok-young, she should still be polite to him. "Oh, I didn't mean that! Mianhae, Oppa…" she bowed deeply.

He gave her a wry smile. "It's fine. I am kind of weird, I guess…," he gave a short laugh. "OK, you got me. It was only a rehearsal for my concert… So, can I help you with something?"

"Oh, your eomma wants you to come for dinner…," Eun-Jeong stared down at her boots.

Seok-young nodded, "I'll be there in a few minutes," and he brought his violin back up to rest beneath his chin.

"Oh. OK…," Eun-Jeong nodded. She began to leave but then turned back. "Oh, how was the musical academy, Oppa?"

"Good."

Eun-Jeong nodded, and Seok-young poised his bow over the strings. Eun-Jeong suddenly had a thought, and a sly grin crossed her lips. "By the way, Seok-young Oppa, do you know which one I am? I bet you don't!" she smirked at him in challenge.

Seok-young brought down his violin and bow to his sides. "Of course I know which one you are, Eun-Jeong," he stated directly.

Eun-Jeong's lips parted, Darn it… Though, she was secretly pleased that he could tell her apart from her sister.

Still, she couldn't give in that easily. "Are you sure about that, Oppa…?" she grinned and placed her hands upon her small hips.

"Yes," he said straight-faced, "I'm sure."

"What makes you so sure I'm Eun-Jeong…?" she folded her arms across her chest.

The corners of Seok-young's mouth twitched, and he approached her, slowly. "Well, I've known you your whole life, for one...," he continued to close the distance between them.

He stood before her now, wearing an amused smirk, and Eun-Jeong could feel her heart once again beginning to speed up.

"And, unlike her sister, Eun-Jeong has this little mole…right…here," Seok-young reached out to poke the tiny black dot upon her cheek. Eun-Jeong grew flushed.

It's not a mole, Yoon Seok-young, it's a beauty mark! She nearly corrected him aloud.

"And not to mention, you and Yeong-Hui have completely different personalities," he added, "…Well, was I right?" he gave a self-assured smile.

But Eun-Jeong couldn't possibly give him the satisfaction, so she told a little fib, "Nope!" she made the sound of a buzzer going off, "You're wrong!" and she ran off giggling.

Seok-young stood there for a moment, stunned, and staring after her.

"Oh, and don't make your parents and the rest of us wait for you to eat, you naughty boy!" she called back over her shoulder before sprinting off through the woods, her heart beating rapidly and not from her escalated pace.

Seok-young returned from the woods and joined the group a few minutes later.

"Nice of you to join us, son," Ji Hoo said.

"Mianhae, Appa," Seok-young gave Ji Hoo a short bow, "I was practicing."

Ji Hoo nodded.

And parents and children all sat down to dinner, making casual conversation around the table.

"Oh, Jan Di-yah, Alexandria and Nikos want to skype later. They just had their baby," Ji Hoo said.

Jan Di clapped her hands together, "Oh, that's great!"

While they ate, Eun-Jeong kept stealing casual glances at Seok-young, who sat across from her, doing her best to remain unnoticed. She got caught up watching him once; he brushed aside his long bangs with a single swoop before returning to his food, chewing it quietly, thoughtfully. Then, Seok-young looked up, and Eun-Jeong's eyes shot immediately down to her plate.

Seok-young grinned. He was typically very quiet, but suddenly he spoke up, "Hey, Yeong-Hui?"

Yeong-Hui looked up curiously from beside her sister, "Yes, Oppa?"

Eun-Jeong groaned inwardly. It was clear what Seok-young was doing; he was confirming that he was right about which one she was earlier.

Though Eun-Jeong and her twin sister occasionally wore the same clothes to fool others for a joke, they were wearing completely different outfits today. Yeong-Hui was in a dress and leggings; she was the more girly one, and Eun-Jeong was wearing a sweater and jeans.

"How is your food, Yeong-Hui?" Seok-young asked, with a sweet smile.

"Good, Oppa, gomawo for asking," and she went back to her food.

Seok-young turned to Eun-Jeong and smirked in satisfaction. Eun-Jeong tightened and glanced away. She began poking at her food, taking her humiliation out on a dumpling.

And why was she suddenly not hungry…? Her stomach felt…strange, like butterflies were taking up habitat in there…

When she thought it safe, and she was sure he was occupied, Eun-Jeong glanced over at Seok-young again. But, he somehow noticed and met her eyes. Darn! How does he do it?

Seok-young always appeared to be in his own world, but he could also immediately attune to others at the perfect—or imperfect—however you chose to look at it—moment.

And then Seok-young gave Eun-Jeong a wink. Eun-Jeong blushed like mad and looked away, hiding her face slightly. Was he actually flirting with her? Did he get that fluttery feeling when he looked at her, too? No, surely not. He was probably just messing with her… She wouldn't put it past him… And the thought of that made her inexplicably bothered. Seok-young simply grinned and returned to his food.

Fortunately, the awkward transgression seemed to have escaped the notice of their parents and the others, aside from Yeong-Hui, who gave Eun-Jeong a sly look. Eun-Jeong wanted to die… If her twin sister knew she liked Yoon Seok-young she would mercilessly.

Liking Yoon Seok-young in that way was practically forbidden. Though they weren't related by blood, he was like a brother to her…or at least a very close cousin. Their parents were practically inseparable, so they'd grown up together. Eun-Jeong had to admit that she was a bit shocked by Seok-young's teasing. Not that he hadn't before, but he'd always looked out for her, too. So, why was he torturing her now?

Seok-young had always been a very kind and gentle boy. Eun-Jeong recalled a time when she was 4 and he was 5. She'd just learned to ride a bike on two wheels, and she was riding at her house. Seok-young and Mee-Yon had come over to play.

Eun-Jeong suddenly hit a rock; her bike dipped, and she fell off. Her knee was scraped and bleeding, and she was crying. Seok-young rushed to her side to check on her, and then he piggybacked her to the house to be tended to.

Eun-Jeong had always remembered that. She smiled thinking of her lovely childhood memory. Eun-Jeong had always liked Seok-young, but she had never ever thought about him in this way before now... It was probably a really bad thing, too. Not only were their families so close, but he was the older brother of her best friend, Yoon Mee-Yon. This could get complicated…

Perhaps she should talk to her mother about this feeling she was having… It was a crush right? Her very…first…crush. Mothers were supposed to be good at those kinds of talks, right? Maybe she could get away with not telling her mother who the boy was that she had a crush on. Oh, why did it have to be Yoon Seok-young, of all people?!

Dinner continued, and Eun-Jeong continued to be distracted, doing her utmost not to look at Seok-young. Then, the group of adults began asking Seok-young questions about his experience at the music academy. A rather uncomfortable Seok-young answered their questions politely but in brief, for he hated being in the spotlight, aside from when he was performing and could completely immerse himself in the music. Talking, on the other hand, was not his forte. They were all asking him how it was, what he did there, what he learned, what it was like rooming with the other boys, if he made any new friends there, etc...

Seok-young thought he would die of humiliation when his uncle Woo Bin asked if he had any girlfriends there, giving him a wink. "Yes, a handsome boy like you must've been very popular with the ladies…," Uncle Yi Jeong continued the onslaught against him, grinning and raising a brow. Aunt Ga Eul was kind enough to give her husband a nudge, warning him not to embarrass her godson.

But, Seok-young could feel that everyone was staring at him now, expecting him to answer the question. His parents seemed particularly interested in knowing his answer.

Eun-Jeong had stopped mid-bite at the question; she was also very curious and a bit nervous. She put down the bite she was going to take and began poking around at her food again. Her eyes were focused upon her plate, but her ears were very much attuned to hear what Seok-young would say.

Seok-young's cheeks had a rosy tint, accentuating his hair. He gave a short, awkward laugh, "Uh, no time for that, Uncle Woo Bin," and he went back to his food, shoving it in more quickly and avoiding eye contact, praying they were done with him now. The corners of Eun-Jeong's mouth instinctively twitched into a small smile.

This seemed to satisfy Ji Hoo. "Yes, Seok-young, here, is no-nonsense when it comes to his music, Woo Bin and Yi Jeong. Right, son?" he asked before taking a bite.

"Ne, Appa," Seok-young nodded.

After dinner, the younger generation went off together, while their parents talked and had drinks. Seok-young had disappeared to who knows where again, but So Eun-Jeong tore herself from her angsty thoughts and went over to the group of her siblings and friends.

As Eun-Jeong approached, Goo Jun-Seo was taunting Yoon Mee-Yon, saying she could not be in F4 because she was a girl.

"F4 is only for boys, babo!" Jun-Seo exclaimed.

"I'm not a babo; you're the babo!" Mee-Yon shouted back, "A big ist, babo!"

"ist? What's that?!" Jun-Seo shouted back at her.

"You don't even know what that means?" Mee-Yon chuckled, "Dummy…," she said under her breath.

"Why you—you're the dummy!"

It was only natural that So Eun-Jeong and Yoon Mee-Yon became best friends. They were practically the same age, less than two weeks apart; they went to the same school; their mothers were best friends, and they were literally always together. They were almost freakishly linked, just like their parents.

Eun-Jeong tightened and prepared to stand up for her best friend, but Seok-young appeared from out of nowhere and beat her to it. Seok-young came up from behind Eun-Jeong and went to Mee-Yon's side. He protectively wrapped an arm around Mee-Yon, whose face had turned redder than a strawberry in anger.

"Ya, what's going on? Did you just insult my baby sister, Goo Jun-Seo?" Seok-young's tone was calm, yet cautionary.

Mee-Yon gave Jun-Seo a haughty look, as if to suggest he was in big trouble now that her big brother was there. Still, she had her pride. "I'm not a baby, Oppa…," Mee-Yon grumbled, but then a faint smile crossed her lips. She was secretly pleased when her oppa stood up for her. "And I can handle myself just fine with Goo Jun-Seo here," she poked out her cheeks and glared at Jun-Seo.

Eun-Jeong smiled to herself. It was sweet how Seok-young protected Mee-Yon. She exchanged a meaningful glance with him, and he smiled.

Goo Jun-Seo scoffed, "She insulted me, too, Hyung!"

Seok-young looked to Mee-Yon in shock and disappointment, "Mee-Yon-ah, did you really do that…?" For Seok-young, Mee-Yon could do no wrong. He adored his younger sister, and she adored him. And she absolutely hated to disappoint him.

"Well, I, um…ye, I did. Mianhae, Oppa…," Mee-Yon hung her head in shame.

"Don't apologize to me, apologize to Jun-Seo. And you, Goo Jun-Seo, you should apologize to Mee-Yon, too," Seok-young ordered.

Mee-Yon and Goo Jun-Seo turned to each other and each gave a reluctant bow.

"Mian, Noona…," Jun-Seo grumbled, "…But she's being ridiculous, Hyung…she wants to be in F4!" Goo Jun-Seo spoke up again.

"Why can't Mee-Yon be in F4, Jun-Seo?" Seok-young asked calmly.

"Well, uh, because…because…she's a girl!"

Seok-young shook his head and released Mee-Yon's shoulders. Mee-Yon went to Eun-Jeong's side, and the two linked arms, as a united force.

Seeking to cheer up her best friend, Eun-Jeong asked, "Why would you want to be in F4, anyway, Mee-Yon-ah?"

All the boys, including Seok-young, stared at her, as if she'd just said the worst thing she could possibly say.

"Noona!" So Jae Jin chastised, in horrified disbelief.

"What did you just say?!" Goo Jun-Seo asked dubiously.

"Well, I uhh…well..," Eun-Jeong looked between the boys, who all appeared to be up in arms about it, and then her eyes settled on Seok-young who was instead looking at her curiously, as if waiting to see how she would scrape herself out of this hole she'd dug for herself.

"I, um, just don't know much about F4…or what you really…do…there…" They were still staring. "Maybe you could tell me more!" she added, in a bubbly fashion, in hopes of appeasing them.

Seok-young smiled to himself.

"Well, it's only the best, most prestigious group you could possibly be in at Shinwha!"Jun-Seo informed her.

"And our fathers were in F4...," Seok-young continued gently, "It's kind of our legacy…"

"Yeah, how could you say that, Noona?! Appa was an F4!" Jae-Jin exclaimed.

"Well, we don't have to do everything that our appas did…," Eun-Jeong gently replied.

They stared at her again.

"That's true," Seok-young commented.

Goo Jun-Seo scoffed. "What's wrong with doing what our dads did?" he looked to Seok-young and then back to Eun-Jeong, "Our dads are great men! Maybe you don't want to be like your dad, but we do! Maybe you don't even like your dad…," Goo Jun-Seo further tormented.

"I do! I love my appa, Goo Jun-Seo! My appa is the best! Why would I not want to be like him?! I'm just saying that you can follow your own path…"

Jun-Seo waved Eun-Jeong off with a hand, as if he'd heard enough. Then, he turned back to Seok-young. "Just wait until I get to the high school, Hyung!" Jun-Seo said excitedly.

Shinwha High and Middle School were connected, so the Yoon, Goo, Song, and So brothers occasionally saw one another but not often.

"You better watch out, Hyung, because I plan to take your place as the leader of F4!" Jun-Seo grinned deviously at Seok-young, "I have big plans for F4…," he folded his arms in smug satisfaction.

"Is that, right, Jun-Seo?" Seok-young smirked, "Do you actually think you can do that?"

Jun-Seo nodded vibrantly and playfully fought with Seok-young. The girls watched, shaking their heads and rolling their eyes.

The kids returned to the area where their parents were. The adults were having wine now and making some kind of toast. And then they all kissed their partners. The younger generation looked between each other and then gave a loud, synchronous throat clear.

Afterward, Eun-Jeong decided to go for a walk to clear her head. She didn't get far before being startled by quiet footsteps upon the leaves. She turned to see Seok-young walking beside her.

They walked in silence for a few moments before Eun-Jeong broke it, with the first thing that popped into her head. "Don't you hate it when our parents kiss?" Seok-young grinned at her.

"And my parents do it all…the…time…," Eun-Jeong made a gagging motion.

Seok-young smirked. "What's wrong with kissing?" Seok-young asked directly, curious to see her reaction. Eun-Jeong stared at him wide-eyed.

"It's perfectly natural…," he grinned.

"Um, uh, well…," Eun-Jeong stammered, turning beet red. For some strange reason, she was struggling with thinking of a good comeback... Seok-young flashed a perfect smile.

"Nothing is wrong with kissing, but it's just…gross…to see parents doing it," she felt she recovered well. Though she hoped he didn't think her immature. She didn't really want him to know she'd never been kissed before.

Seok-young gave a short chuckle. "Yeah, I agree with you there," he shoved his hands into the pockets of his cream colored slacks while they walked, "My parents are pretty bad about it… Eomma tries to be discreet, but she's not very good at that, and Appa doesn't seem to care if I see or not."

"Yeah, I understand where you're coming from… My parents are similar…"

They exchanged a few favorite quotes from their parents, their mutual favorite being, "One day you're going to like (girls/boys), and you won't mind it." Yea, it's not the same…

"Like this one time, I walked in on my parents…," Seok-young began.

Eun-Jeong's eyes grew wide as saucers, "Stop it right there! Say no more, Yoon Seok-young!" she reached out and put two fingers to Seok-young's lips to silence him. She hadn't even realized she had done it until her fingers rested there.

His lips were soft…

Seok-young's eyes went slightly wide, and Eun-Jeong felt her cheeks warm up. He was probably wondering what this crazy girl was doing touching him... She immediately removed her fingers and glanced away.

"Um, mianhae…but I don't need any mental images of your parents… I've had plenty of my parents to last me a lifetime…," she glanced away.

Seok-young laughed. "Aren't you being a bit dramatic? It wasn't what you were thinking…," Seok-young teased.

"And what was I thinking exactly, Yoon Seok-young Oppa, hmm?" Two could play the teasing game…

"Um, well, you know…it wasn't…that…," he raised a brow.

"That? What do you mean by that? I don't know what you're talking about, Oppa…," her face was serious. "What else is there…?" Perhaps she was going a bit too far, but she just wanted to see what he would say, though she might regret it. And she hoped he didn't try to turn the tables on her.

This time, Seok-young got flustered. He cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck, "Well, you know…," he was motioning his hands as if to explain. He appeared to be trying to choose his words very carefully.

Then, Seok-young looked to Eun-Jeong, and she was grinning at him, "And…you're teasing me, right?" he sighed, stuffing his hands into his pockets once more.

"Yea, I knew what you meant, babo!" Eun-Jeong giggled and shoved Seok-young. "But, hey, you deserved it!

"Aren't you cute," Seok-young commented, while ruffling her hair. She blushed again, wondering if he meant that in a condescending way, like she was some adorable little teddy bear or something. She shoved his hand away. Eun-Jeong had only recently discovered that she hated when Seok-young got so touchy with her…but only because she liked it too much…

He simply grinned, "I suppose I did deserve it."

They exchanged a smile and a laugh. Suddenly, Seok-young put an arm over her shoulder. The gesture was decidedly friendly, but it felt electric to Eun-Jeong. He was warm, and he smelled nice. Did he wear cologne, or was that simply his natural scent? Whatever it was, she liked it... And the two friends walked together back to their family and friends.

A/N: I truly hope you enjoyed.  I have another sequel/spin-off in progress about the F4 kids, if anyone is interested.