It’s been months since Donghae went back to Seoul to continue Super Junior activities. A week after the nightmare incident, he decided to go back. His family and mine didn’t want him to exhaust himself even more so they pleaded him to stay a little longer. I thought the same with Donghae. He should look forward not dwell in the past. Though he and I know that it will be a little or a lot hard for him, he must move on.

Donghae would occasionally send messages and call to assure us that he’s doing great. He said the members, especially leader Leeteuk, is taking good care of him.

Sometimes, I and my parents would huddle in front of the television to watch Donghae’s appearances on TV shows. We’re glad he’s showing no trace of sadness on his face now.

One morning, the phone rang. I answered it and it was…

“Donghae! How have you been?” it’s the same old line I always ask when he calls.

“Well I’m fine, the members are taking care of me. Same old, same old.” He laughed

I was glad hearing that. “Why did you call?” a asked.

“Oh, yeah. I’m going home the day after tomorrow for mom’s birthday. Can you help me organize a party for her?” he asked.

“Sure,” I said. “Where do you plan to do it?”

“Near the sea. Well, actually I just want me, mom, Donghwa and you guys on it. Just family.”

Just. Family. Wow.

Donghae thought of us as family? That’s a first.

“Aha. A party for six then.”

“Seven.”

“Of course…seven…it is.” Donghae’s father. The first time all of us will held a party without him. No more of his smiles, laughs, crazy antics…voice. I miss him, obviously not as much as Donghae’s longing.

Donghae cleared his throat. “Okay. Um, can you help me get a cake? Any cake,” he said.

“Oh, yeah. I’ll everything we need. I’ll just get a pen and paper.”

I listed everything Donghae asked for,

“Soojin, thank you.”

“It’s my job. I’m you ‘lamp’, right?” I jokingly said.

He laughed. I followed

“You’re the best,” he added. “I have to go now. Take care.”

“Okay, bye.”

“Bye.”

He ended the call.

I looked at the list I’m holding. He had loads to ask for.

“Donghae’s wish…is my command.”

Kind of like a genie…in a “lamp”.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

I know...lame. And short.

~Crina