Given that the whole day being outside, Hero was drained and was asleep soundly on my lap. I stoke his fur coat, a natural reaction. I glanced out the window as street lights passed by. The journey home was a silent one. None of us wanted to break the ice and ask what’s bothering each other. Questions that should be asked weren’t asked.

Bzz…Bz….

My phone vibrated in my pocket. I took it out to see it was Ms Baek. Should I answer the call in JaeJoong’s presence? I bit my lip as I contemplated whether to answer. The phone continued to vibrate in my hands.

“Just pick it up. I promise I won’t eavesdrop.” JaeJoong glanced over at me for a second. I rolled my eyes. How could he not when he’s here? Aiishh! Since he knew part of the truth, I would just risk it.

“Yeoboseyo?” I whispered through the phone as I answered.

“You busy?” Ms Baek sensed my softer voice.

“Nope, just that someone is beside me.”

“Ah, is it JaeJoong?”

“Neh,” I smiled at Ms Baek’s clever guess.

“Alright, I’ll make it quick. Kim Yuri just sent in her final design for the cover. I’ll fax it over, so give me a text when you are alone. Plus, I really need your draft by end of this month.”

“Arraso,” I pouted.

“I’m not rushing you. But you do realize the cover design is out, right?”

“Arraso, just a few more…” Chapters to go, I almost said it out. “Bit to go.”

“Fine, text me again,” Ms Baek hung up. I sighed, ending the call. Work that’s piling stressed me out. My brain juice was almost dried up thinking of the content.

“Is it Ms Baek? That was fast,” JaeJoong commented.

“Yeah, but what’s fast?” I was confused at his question.

“Usually you would argue and fight with her.”

“Do I?”

“Yeah, and by the way, you owe me an answer.”

“I don’t recall owing you any answer,” I denied, clearly remember the deal between us- the promise to exchange information for freedom.

“Ohhh… Someone’s lying through her teeth,” JaeJoong accused teasingly. I stuck my tongue out at him, not answering his question.

“Tell me or else….” JaeJoong threatened.

“Or else?” I challenged him.

“Kiss me,” JaeJoong smirked as he stopped in front of the red light.

“What?!” I shrieked.

“Or do you want me to kiss you?” JaeJoong smiled as he leaned over. I could feel the blood slowly gushing towards my cheeks.

“Nope, definitely not,” I shook my head and looked away. JaeJoong chuckled and ruffled my hair.

“Shy shy shy girl, oh oh oh my girl,” JaeJoong sang to the lyrics of Secret’s shy boy as he continued driving.

I grinned as I faced the window.