Jihoo and Ilana ran away with the cheese again...you've been warned.

March 30, 2016

Ilana hadn't been discharged until Sunday morning.  Having been confined to her bed during her entire hospital stay, the first step after removing all the monitors was not easy.  For the two days of her hospital stay, the Doctor hadn't even allowed her to get up for the bathroom (much to her embarrassment).  Once on foot for the first time since Wednesday afternoon, she promptly was dizzy and nauseous.  After lying back down on her side, eating, and resting more, they tried again and again until she was able to stand without feeling faint and nauseous.  By then it was late, and her blood pressure had gone back up from the stress.  It was decided she could leave in the morning after they took more blood work.  Unfortunately, they would be missing Easter Services this year.  Jihoo promised they would have devotion time and worship when they got to where they were going.  Ilana had shrugged off the statement, figuring she misunderstood and let the comfortable SUV lull her.

Ilana yawned, getting sleepy from the car ride.  Knowing they weren't too far from home, she figured they should be arriving any minute.  Though she didn't know her way around town well enough yet, it did seem they were taking longer than usual to get home and she didn't recognize anything.  "Sarang, where are we?"

- "Gwenchana, we still have at least another thirty minutes before we get there."

"Aren't we going home?"

 - "In a few days.  Sarang needs to continue to rest and if we go home now, Sarang won't rest and then she'll be in the same situation."

 - "Anieyo..."

 - "Deh..." he brought her hand to his lips.  "Sarang needs to be patient," she mock-scowled at him.  "Besides, we need this quiet time together before Dtal comes and monopolizes Anae's attention."

 - "Anieyo," Ilana smiled and placed a hand on her belly.  "Dtal will monopolize Appa's attention and she'll be spoiled rotten."

Jihoo laughed and continued to hold her hand.  It didn't take long before she fell asleep.  When they arrived at their destination, for fear of hurting her, Jihoo let the driver check them in and arrange their belongings in their room.  Once their room was ready, only then did he wake her up.  "Sarang, we're here."

After a few attempts, Ilana finally sat up groggily looking out the window.  At first glance, it appeared they were in the middle of nowhere.  On second glance, she saw some traditional buildings, still in the middle of nowhere.  "Where are we?"  She rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

 - "Gangwhado Island," He said without further explanation.

Ilana nodded.  Of course, this explained everything...not!  "Sarang...!"

 - "You'll see, kaja," Jihoo hopped out of the SUV and opened her door.  The next thing Ilana knew, she was being bridal carried to a hanok.  She didn't know how he managed to remove his shoes while carrying her but he did and walked to their room, carefully placing her on the bed. 

 - "Sarang, I'm too heavy for you to be carrying me," she scolded as he breathed a little heavier than usual.

 - "Gwenchana, I'm strong enough to carry you.  Plus, Na haven't had a good work out in a week.  Sarang will be my exercise.”

 - "What are we doing here?"

 - "Absolutely nothing.  Agassi is on modified bed rest, remember?  There's no Wi-Fi...," there was, but he wasn't going to tell her that. "...And limited cell phone reception."  That wasn't a complete deception.  "Tomorrow, a professional masseuse will come to give you a pregnancy massage and we'll take a few short walks a day, depending on how you feel.  Other than that, Sarang must stay in bed or on the couch."  He saw her pout; this news was not agreeable to her when there was so much to do.  Her idea of bed rest was working while in bed.  "Does Sarang know the best part of these next few days?"

 - "Anieyo?"  Ilana could tell he was up to something.  He wore a barely concealed smile.

Jihoo had been standing next to the bed and now moved to sit and then lay next to his wife, bringing his arms around her and tangling his legs with hers.  "The best part is...Na will be by your side the entire time."

Ilana smiled for her sweet hubby.  "Choah!  Na won't let you go."  Ilana burrowed as closely to Jihoo as possible with HaEun in the way.

Today was Jihoo's birthday and if she hadn’t the opportunity to prepare anything for him, the least she could do was wake before him and order breakfast.  Their schedules had been completely turned around from her hospital stay.  Her poor husband, she knew, was just as exhausted as she was.  It had been raining and cloudy since their arrival, perfect for lounging in bed doing nothing but cuddling, talking, listening to music, napping, and stealing kisses.  What usually followed stealing kisses was on hiatus until after HaEun was born.  When they were not in bed, Jihoo sat on the couch and she used his lap as a pillow while they watched a movie or drama or a musical performance.  They took walks when it wasn't raining.  Monday, she managed only five minutes at a time but Tuesday she was able to walk a little longer.  The grounds were beautiful and the air crisp and clean.  Mt. Manisan could be seen directly behind the hanok and they could occasionally detect the scent of the ocean which wasn't that far.

Ilana kissed her husband's back; he still didn't wear a shirt to bed.  "Saeng-il Chuka Hamnida.  Nomu saranghaeyo Yoon Jihoo."  Tempted to continue smothering his back with kisses, she figured it was better to get up and get their breakfast ordered.  It took extra time to get around since her hospital stay, but at least most of the swelling she had incurred went down.  Her legs and hands no longer ached.  Getting up from these Asian style beds wasn't too difficult after she got the hang of it.  Though low to the ground, Jihoo was usually there to help her.  After attending to the bodily necessities, she stretched out on the couch with the menu and the room phone.  While pouring over the menu, a pair of arms came from nowhere and slipped under her arms, while a pair of lips found the back of her neck.  "Goyangi!"  Ilana jumped, slightly startled.  "You scared me."

 - "Choah!"  He rubbed her arms and kissed her cheek, before sitting on the couch beside her, propping her feet on his lap.  "Wae didn't Sarang wait for me to get up first?"

 - "It's your birthday, Na didn't get a chance to prepare anything," she frowned; truly upset she hadn't been able to prepare anything special for the day.

 - "We celebrated our birthdays with our chingu last week."

 - "That's different!  Na didn't do anything for you."

Jihoo leaned over and caressed her mound.  "Sarang is giving birth to nae first child.  What more can Na ask for?"

 - "Mollah, that's what Na always ask myself?  We are blessed with everything, what can Na give you or do to make your day special?"

 - "The fact that Sarang is thinking of me, is special.  The fact that ara you cover me in your prayers is special.  The fact that HaEun is a product of our mutual pleasure is special.  Hajiman...there is something Sarang can do for her nampyon."

 - "Deh?"  She sat up expectantly, removing her legs from his lap, ready to run off to do his bidding.

Jihoo slid over next to her.  "Sarang...can...," he loved her bright smile.  It was the first thing he noticed of her, other than she spoke his home language.  Tucking the hair that escaped her braid, behind her ear, he stared into her eyes, teasing her.  "...give her nampyon a birthday kiss."

 - "Sarang!"  Her laugh was exactly what he wanted after last week's stress and being placed on bed rest, which can be hard on a woman who's used to being active.  "Arraseo," she said formally with a wide grin.  "Sarang has to close his eyes."

 - "Ah, deh?"  He said seriously but complied anyway.

Ilana bit her lip deciding what to do.  Sighing she looked down at herself, the swelling had decreased considerably; she didn't look as huge as the day she left the hospital.  Decision made, she nervously stood, placing a hand on his neck for support, and gingerly sat on his lap.  Lowering his face to hers, she softly kissed his forehead, eyes, and cheeks, pausing between each kiss for effect.  She bit and led at his earlobe while running her hand through his disheveled hair.  Jihoo drew in his breath and secured her more firmly to his lap.  Continuing from his earlobe, her lips traveled down to his neck and then his jaw, to finally graze his lips with hers.  Her hand tickled his neck, playing with the hair that fell there as her tongue and nipped at his soft lips.  Hearing him exhale, she smiled before deepening the kiss.

Jihoo was going to need a cold shower after his birthday gift.  She'd come a long way from the girl whose heartbeat in fear the first time he kissed her.  She was teasing him the way he loved to , alternating deep sultry kisses with shallow playful ones.  Unable to hold back, he took control once her tongue had invaded his.  His hands rubbed circles up and down her back, while her hand was doing the same to his chest.  Lost in the sensation that and caresses were offering him, he didn't immediately grasp that her hand was dipping lower down his abs.  It wasn't until he felt her at the drawstring of his pants that he ended the kiss and stopped her hand.  "Anieyo."

Her eyes that had closed themselves during the kiss flew open a bit stunned.  "I-I want to take care of you," blushing she looked down.

 - "Sarang doesn't need to 'take care of me'.  Na will not use you for my own pleasure."  It was different when they pleasured each other, but he would not make her lower herself.  When he saw her eyes getting suspiciously moist, he kissed her one more time.  "Sarang, Gomawo for nae birthday gift, hajiman we need a cold shower."  He picked her up, making her squeal and took her to the shower, where they continued with more of his birthday present. 

When they'd woken from a nap, the rain had stopped.

Jihoo woke first and watched her sleep with pure love on his face until she must have felt him staring and also woke. "Eeliwah (come) lazy bones, though Sarang has had more activity today than the last few days, the rain has stopped.  Kaja for our walk."

The gardens were so tranquil and beautiful.  There were only six units and Jihoo had rented two, one for them and one for the driver if they wanted to go somewhere.  They occasionally saw the occupants of the other four units, while on their walks.  Ambling through the gardens, Jihoo took a few pictures of his wife amongst the flowers that grew beneath a wall.  "Sarang's turn!"  Ilana said, requesting the phone from her husband.  She'd completely forgotten all about work and didn't even think of making phone calls.

 - "Ani," he walked up to her, kissing her cheek.  "We'll take one together."

Ilana didn't see how that would work since he was so much taller than her.  "Sarang is too tall!"  She whined.

 - "Na will think of something."  He decided the tree by the garden wall was a perfect height for their portrait.  "Sarang, carefully step back until na tell you to stop."

 - "Deh..."  Ilana made sure she wasn't going to fall as Jihoo waited until she came into the camera viewer.

He had removed the belt he wore and hung the phone through its belt loops, so it vertically hung from the tree.  "Hajima!  Na think this will work."  He set the timer and ran off to where Ilana stood.  Quickly he stepped behind her and wrapped her in his arms while setting his chin on top of her head.  He counted off the seconds in his head until it was time.  "Hana...dol... set!  Kimchi!"  The timer went off with the two of them laughing, but they captured their perfect picture.

 - "HyungJun Oppa would be proud of Sarang," Ilana said, admiring the picture.

 - "It did come out nice.  Na will have it printed for nae office."

 - "Na would like one for HaEun's room.”

 - "Choah; when we get back we'll go shopping for her room."

 - "Deh!"  The prospect of setting up the baby's room made her very happy.

 Smiling, Jihoo took her hand and headed for the lane.   "Sarang has been on her feet too long already, we'll just walk for five minutes and then get you back to lay down, arraso?"

 - "Arraso," she was resigned to her fate of remaining in bed the next seven weeks.

Their walks usually left Ilana feeling tired and she had no problem napping on their return.  When she woke, Jihoo wasn't next to her.  Ever since the airport incident, she was afraid to be alone.  If Jihoo hadn't been waiting just outside the door, she didn't know what could have happened.  "Sarang?!"

He was in the living room, getting ready to order them dinner.  He only briefly thought about going out for dinner, but his wife wasn’t strong enough; it was too soon.  Rain wasn’t in the forecast for the next day and Jihoo had a plan.  Hearing his wife’s fearful shout, he immediately stood and moved to her side.  "Gwenchana?"  He eased her to the couch and felt her pulse.

 - "Gwenchana.  Na...didn't see you."

 - "Lay your head on my lap," Jihoo shifted to the end of the sofa by the phone and menu.  "Mianhae, na wanted to have dinner waiting for when you woke up."  He caressed her hair as he reviewed the menu with her and slowly unwound her braid as they decided on what to order.

She protested half-heartedly.  "Sarang, nae hair will be all over the place!"

 - "Deh," finishing his task, he lifted her upper body into his arms.  "Just the way na like it."  He kissed her gently while running his hand in her hair.  Little did they know they were about to receive guests.

A short distance away, a Bentley Continental, Fisker Karma, and a Porsche Panamera were rapidly approaching Jihoo and Ilana's secluded retreat.  The F4 had turned in their sporty 2-seaters for more family appropriate vehicles.

 - "Gu JunPyo, na still think we shouldn't have come," JanDi said.

 - "It's nae best friend's birthday," he defended.

 - "Ilana needs to rest."

 - "That's wae we're also bringing all the food."  JunPyo had also hired a Sushi Chef to cook for them.  The chef was following as best as he could, hard-pressed to keep up with all the sporty luxury sedans.

In the environmentally friendly Karma, GaEul worried also.  "Yeobo, choah Jihoo, hajiman Na think Ilana will be too tired with all of us and the kids there."

 - "Gwenchana, we'll only stay for dinner and make sure we get JunPyo to leave right after," her husband replied.

 - "Arraso, we'll take care of Ilana."

In the Porsche, WooBin was having second thoughts.  "Yeobo, I don't know about this scheme of JunPyo's.  Jihoo brought Ilana here to rest."

 - "Oh poo, she's probably bored out of her mind.  We won't tire them out, we're just bringing dinner."  Sometimes JaeKyung could be just as incorrigible as JunPyo.

The gang knew, of course, which Hanok Jihoo and Ilana were staying in.  Everyone piled out of their cars, including the chef and his sous chef.  "Omo!  Omo!  Omo!"  InHei could hardly reign in her excitement and ran over to JeongYul to hold his hand.

JanDi had to make sure InHei kept quiet.  "Shh!  InHei-ah, JeongYul, we need to be quiet.  It's a surprise."

 - "Arraseo Umma!"  InHei whispered loudly.

 - "Deh Imo!"  JeongYul was better at whispering.  His household was much quieter than his honorary Aunt and Uncle's house but that was half the fun of visiting.

They walked in while Jihoo and Ilana exchanged teasing kisses.  "Saeng-il Chuka hamnida!"  They shouted, startling the couple on the couch.  Ilana had let go of Jihoo's neck and if it weren't for his ability to think clearly and hold on to her, she could've fallen off the couch and injured herself.  Breathing deeply to keep calm he asked:  "What are you all doing here?"

 - "We came to celebrate Ajussi's birthday!"  InHei broke away from everyone and ran to give her favorite uncle a hug and kiss.  By this time, Ilana had sat up carefully and was also a recipient of InHei's hugs and a pat on her stomach for HaEun.

 - "Kansamnida InHei-ah," Jihoo answered her.  "Na feel honored you came all this way.  Anae and I were just resting." He made sure to emphasize the word 'resting'.

 - "Sunbae," JanDi rushed forward.   "We only came to have a birthday dinner with you and Ilana.  Ara, Ilana needs rest, we won't stay long."

 - "Deh!  Mianhae if we were interrupting something."  YiJung stifled a laugh, turning it into a cough.  His wife gave him a tug on the ear.  Unchastised, he gave her a quick kiss, making her smile as she shook her head at him.

 - "Deh," JaeKyung moved forward.  "You two really should have locked the door.  Hana, say annyeong hasseyo to Imo Ilana."

Ilana reached for the baby, glad to hide her blushing face.  It wasn't like they were doing anything to be ashamed of, but still.  "Annyeong Hana," she kissed the baby's head.  "You brought all your cousins with you for Ajussi's birthday?  That was very nice of you.  Na think you made Ajussi very happy."  Ilana and Jihoo smiled at each other over InHei's head; she had wedged herself perfectly in between them.

Everyone began to relax, and the chef went to work in the small kitchen, aided by a hibachi of his own.  Hugs were equally dispensed.  JeongYul was such a formal little kid unless he was playing with InHei; he always bowed to his elders.  Ilana had a turn at greeting JeongHee, for the women had flocked to her side.  Though not as coddled as Hana, JeongHee still preferred Umma the best and began to fuss.  "Aww, she wants Umma," Ilana handed JeongHee to back to GaEul.

 - "Ilana has been well?"  JanDi had been carefully assessing her Sunbae's wife.

 - "Deh..."

Jihoo turned his head toward the women’s conversation.  "JanDi-yah, na check her blood pressure in the morning and evening.  It's gotten lower each day."

 - "Choah.  Mianhae, Ilana was resting, and we interrupted."

 - "You think they'd welcome the distraction, they can't really do anything with her on bed rest," JaeKyung said innocently enough.

 - "Jagiya, na think they were doing something when we walked in,” WooBin added.

Ilana's face turned bright red again.  "Nothing you guys don't do when alone with your Anae," Jihoo shrugged.

Ilana wanted the attention off her and her husband's kissing activities and took advantage to ask JunPyo of the construction company.  "JunPyo-ssi, how goes the acquisition?"

 - "Anae..."  Jihoo warned; he didn't want her getting unnecessarily stressed when she was doing so well.

 - "Choah!"  JunPyo said excitedly.  "Attorney Rodriguez presented our...” JunPyo caught himself trying to take over. “…your petition to the corporate board after reviewing it with Attorney Lee and JaeKyung on a conference call.  Gwenchana, nothing was said about you not returning to Los Angeles."  Ilana felt relieved at that.  Attorney Rodriguez had always handled her affairs.  She'd have to let Antonio know how she wanted the department structured in her absence.

 - "Attorney Lee and nae Anae have an appointment with your board since she is part of it now," WooBin continued.

 - "Deh!  Don't worry about a thing...InHei-ah scoot over a little..."  InHei sat on Jihoo's lap, while JaeKyung managed to squeeze herself in between.  "...The F4 has your back, arraso?"  JaeKyung wrapped an arm around Ilana's shoulder.

 - "Kansamnida, for taking time out of your own duties to help me.  Na don't know how I can repay you."

 - "Gwenchana," JaeKyung squeezed Ilana's arm.  "Na got to invest in ILC," she said smiling.

 - "Deh...you trickster,” Ilana said with a smile.  JaeKyung grinned and stuck her tongue out at her.  JaeKyung's parents had always wanted to invest in ILC and now JaeKyung was given that opportunity.  "Appa built his company with the help of chingu.  Wae do na keep trying to do it alone?"

 - "Jeogiyo," Jihoo told InHei before sliding her off.  He got up and walked behind his wife and bent forward to wrap his arms around her.  "When we all first took over the responsibilities that were due to us, we tried it on our own.  It was a long hard road and slowly we began to realize it was okay to accept help, we didn't have to do it alone.  It's not that we asked for help or even bought the help like our parents did, but if we see a need, the others jump right in.  It's been like that for a while, mollah how it all started."

 - "That's the way we roll, girl, get used to it," WooBin teased.

 - "Deh Ajussi!"  Ilana teased back.

 - "Anae should lie down until dinner is ready," Jihoo said.

 - "Do I have too?"  Ilana whined.

 - "The yeoja will keep anae company."

 - "Greomyo!"  JaeKyung was already helping Ilana up from the couch.

The women and children, minus JeongYul, all parked themselves on the bed, around Ilana.  "Imo, can I braid your hair?"  InHei asked.  She loved Ilana's long hair.

 - "InHei is a good hair braider, she likes to braid my hair when she comes over," GaEul said.

Ilana gasped.  "My hair!"  She rubbed a hand, self-consciously through it, having forgotten that Jihoo unwound her braid from earlier.  "Na must look like a scarecrow!"  She gasped again.  "In front of the namja too!  How embarrassing!"  Ilana covered her face in distress.  InHei had gone to the bathroom to find a hairbrush and hairband.

JaeKyung laughed.  "What were you two doing when we came in?"

 - "Amugeotdoyo (nothing)!"

 - "Nothing made Ilana's braid come out," GaEul joined the teasing.

 - "Greon, what exactly can you do on bed rest?"  JaeKyung asked mischievously.

 - "Unnie!!"  Ilana knew what she was hinting at.

 - "Gwenchana," JanDi placed a reassuring hand on Ilana's mound.  "We all know how HaEun-ah came to be, no need for Ilana to explain it."  Ilana shook her head at them.  "Jeongmal, we can't get Ilana riled up.  Not to mention, Sunbae will get upset if we do.  The reason for this getaway was for Ilana to rest."

 - "I'm back!"  InHei announced proudly.  She had no problems finding a brush and hair tie.

 - "Gomawo InHei.  Your cruel Ajussi likes to mess up Imo's hair."  InHei giggled, he liked to mess up her hair too.  "Should na sit up?"

 - "Anieyo, Ilana should just stay as she is.  InHei can work around your hand," JanDi answered.  Ilana laid on her left side while resting her head on her raised hand.  InHei began to brush her hair and it felt very nice; if she wasn't careful, Ilana was going to fall asleep with everyone around her.

 - "Greon, this is a really nice place.  Almost as nice as Jihoo's house," JaeKyung said.  "Jeongmal, what have you two been up to, we know what you can't do."

 - "It might be best not to remind her," GaEul said.

 - "Na feel so bad for Jihoo," Ilana said.

 - "Gwenchana," JanDi smiled sympathetically.  "Sunbae would rather HaEun and his anae be healthy and safe."

 - "Ara," Ilana said.  She still felt that twinge of guilt from time to time as if she was neglecting him.  Ilana's eyes suddenly grew wide.  "I just thought of something," she whispered.  "Can I ask for your help?"

 - "Oooh!  A surprise?"  JaeKyung got excited.  "Count me in."

 - "Deh!" GaEul and JanDi also agreed.

A few minutes later, GaEul was rushing past the men, "na have to get something for JeongHee."

 - "It's dark outside, Na will go," YiJung said.

 - "Aigoo!  The cars are just on the other side of the gate, the path is dimly lit.  Stay with the namja."  In her white wedge heeled sneakers, she didn't have to stretch too far to plant a kiss on her husband's cheek.

YiJung easily caved after that.  "Arraso jagiya.  Here, use the light on my phone."

 - "Deh!"

The guys had pretty much been giving Jihoo the same treatment that Ilana was getting from the girls.  "This is a nice setup, pretty secluded, questionable cell phone reception, dim lighting outside.  Perfect for murdering someone or locking the door and holding your anae hostage."  WooBin emphasized the locked door.  "Hajiman, Ilana's already pregnant, so no need for that."

Jihoo gave his friend the 'not amused look’.  WooBin didn't care and continued.  "Na should bring anae here when we get ready for number two."

Ignoring WooBin, Jihoo said.  "Ara, you guys came for my birthday, hajiman Anae seems to be enjoying the company of the yeoja.  Gomawo."

 - "It's the least we can do, bro!"  WooBin said.

 - "Greon, what plans do you have for your anniversary?"  JunPyo asked, also wanting to move on from WooBin's topic.  He didn't like to talk about those things, unlike WooBin and YiJung.

Jihoo glanced toward the bedroom and decided that they wouldn't be overheard if they kept their voices low.  "Other than our short walks, we don't get out.  Tomorrow it won't rain, Na want to take her to the beach.  On the day of our anniversary, Na want her to rest as much as possible during the day.  In the late afternoon/evening, Na will take her out for dinner.  Anae very much enjoys Japanese food and you guys gave her a treat tonight; groan hokshina shabu shabu in Yeosu or cross the bridge into mainland Incheon and go to Chinatown.  The rest of the evening is up in the air and nae chingu don't need to know every detail."

WooBin and YiJung hollered with laughter, but Gu JunPyo remained pensive.  "Gwenchana bro, we won't ask," WooBin said.

During the men's commotion, GaEul snuck back in with JeongHee's diaper bag and the items that Ilana requested.  "Yeah, the namja are being suspicious," she said, removing Ilana's things from the diaper bag.

 - "They're just being namja," JaeKyung waved her hand dismissing the suspicion.

 - "Deh, ara InHei Appa really loves it when they are all together.  Especially when Jihoo Sunbae is in town.  Ilana doesn't know how much he really missed his chingu."

 - "Deh," GaEul agreed.  "We're all grateful to Ilana for bringing him back home."

 - "Anieyo!  Na didn't do anything!"  Ilana looked at JanDi and her eyes were suspiciously moist.  "JanDi Unnie!  Don't start!"

 - "Group hug!"  JaeKyung shouted.  What followed was laughter, squealing and two pregnant ladies trying not to get crushed in the mayhem.  It was a miracle the babies were safely out of the way in their carriers.

The men heard the commotion, making them laugh.  "Yah, what are the yeoja up to?"  JunPyo hated feeling left out.

 - "No different than what we're doing," Jihoo said.  "Haengbokhae anae has broken out of her shell with the yeoja."

 - "Ha!  No one can remain in their shell with nae anae around," WooBin said.

 - "Greon, tell us how she broke your shell," YiJung asked and dodged a punch from his friend.

 - "JanDi and GaEul are formidable on their own, considering how the two of you were tamed," Jihoo said casually, with his usual straight face.

 - "Maja!  Na wouldn't have it otherwise," YiJung agreed wholeheartedly.

 - "Anae is special," JunPyo usually turned to mush at the thought of his wife.  This evening amongst his friends was no different.

Just then the chef came from the kitchen and announced their dinner was ready.

Their guests stayed much longer than the time it took to prepare and eat dinner.  Jihoo couldn't exactly throw them out since his wife wanted them to stay a little longer.  The girls went back to the bedroom soon after dinner.  The men could only wonder what they were up to.  By the time they left, Ilana was exhausted but content.  It was a pleasant exhaustion, unlike the exhaustion that comes from being sick.  Ilana yawned unashamedly and stretched comfortably under the quilts.  Jihoo was done with his bedtime routine and was getting ready to climb in next to her and stopped himself.  "Sarang had a lot of activity today, Na almost forget to check your blood pressure."  Ilana did not want him to find one of her surprises just yet.  Reaching her hand out, she pulled on his pajama, pinching him in the process.

 - "Yah!"

Ilana burst into giggles.  The pinch was unintentional.  "Mian!  Na just wanted to stop you.  Gwenchana, just come to bed.  Check it in the morning."  Ilana was still fighting the mirth.

Jihoo narrowed his eyes at her and then climbed under the quilts, drawing her close to him.  "Agassi may not have intentionally pinched her nampyon but she enjoyed it nonetheless."  Ilana buried her laughter in his bare chest.  "How would anae like if Na pinched her."

 - "Anieyo!  Yoon Jihoo, don't!"

He reached down and pinched her thigh and while she was preoccupied with getting out of the way, he pinched her nose and cheek, before holding her steady to fulfill his desire for lips.  She stopped her squirming after that and gave herself fully to his desire.  When they finally came up for air, Ilana snuggled in his chest, all the giddiness gone, now ready to welcome sleep.  "Jalja, Sarang," she yawned into his chest.

 - "Jalja, nae sarang."

 - "Nomu saranghaeyo," she murmured.  "Were you happy your friends came to celebrate your birthday?"

 - "Ani."

She chuckled.  "Mentiroso (Liar), yes you did."

 - "Mmm.  Na think Sarang liked having the yeoja's company."

 - "Mmm.  They remind me of having Na Oppa-deul around."  Jihoo laughed at the comparison.  "Yah!”  She tried to slap his chest, but he was holding her and couldn't move.  "It's not anything bad.  Na just miss their silliness and the quarrels and believe it or not, how they bossed me around on the ship.  And their companionship too; everyone is so busy now."  Especially YoungSaeng, she thought.

 - "Ah and your nampyeon doesn't give you companionship."

Ilana grinned at his playful jealousy.  "Nampyeon is..." she paused trying to remember the word.  "...Jiltunayo (jealous)?"

 - "Ani."

 - "Dehhh...Ani...it was a different season and Na think I can see Yesu using the namja to help and guide me.  Na think I've learned how to be content in every season like the Bible says.  Nae se neun ryeo ju si neun ja an e seo naega modeun seo eur har su it neu nira (I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me)."

 - "Mansae Sarang," he moved slightly, to kiss her forehead.  "Both for your revelation and for remembering a Bible verse in Korean."

April 1, 2016

Stretching lazily, Jihoo looked out the window.  He could see it was another cloudy day; completely opposite of their wedding day in Southern California.  The morning had escaped them once again and not bothering with his phone for the time, he was certain it had to be close to noon or past it.  He was surprised his wife hadn't woken up in hunger yet.  Rolling over to her, as she slept on her side, he cuddled her against him.  She had to be worn out still from the day before.  He had pushed the boundaries on the definition of bed rest when he took her to the beach, laying on the sand to watch the waves.  Their walks consisted of barefoot rambling along the water’s edge.  Occasionally, he'd manage to drag her into the water, making her scramble back to dry land.  Even if the pregnancy made her warm, the water was still icy on her feet.  He stifled a laugh remembering how he'd buried her feet in the sand and peppered her face with kisses.  They had lunch at one of the cafes along the beach specializing in seafood.  The grilled eel was a big hit with her and HaEun.  By the time they were ready to come back to the hanock, their white pants were grey.  Even his driver stifled a laugh as they emptied the Beach from the blankets and used them to sit on.  No one would ever believe the usually meticulous Su-am Foundation heir was walking around with stained pants and what could possibly be a bucket of sand is his hair.  His wife was not any better.

When they returned to the hanock and showered, they had a late-night dinner outside.  For dessert, he grilled sweet potatoes and topped them with kimchi, just like his grandfather liked.  This was also a big hit with his wife and daughter.  They ate at least three.  The rest of the evening was spent laying on a mat and quilt on the front porch, stargazing, as they did on their honeymoon.  There wasn't much to see, the clouds obstructing their view, but it was the idea of spending this downtime together.

 - "Gomawo, for sequestering me," Ilana said.

Jihoo chuckled.  "Is that what Na did?"

 - "Mmm, it's fortunate na married my kidnapper.”

 - "If Anae is nae prisoner, then naega also Anae's prisoner."  He leaned over her, giving her lips feather-light kisses until she couldn't take the teasing and stopped his face from retreating, initiating a brazen kiss.

In between kisses, stargazing, talking and teasing each other, Jihoo played his violin.  While he played a score called 'beautiful evening,' Ilana had fallen asleep.  It was chilly, but Ilana was warm enough with the quilt and she rested comfortably. He decided to wait until she was in a deeper sleep to move her.  He continued playing, letting the music notes dance around her.  Each one containing his earnest love and prayers for her and their baby.  When at last he tucked her in, he reached for his medical bag and found one of her love notes stuck to the blood pressure monitor.  He smiled, it had been some time since she had stuffed notes in his belongings.  Her vitals proved there was no damage from their day out, they were fine.  In fact, her blood pressure was even lower than the day before and HaEun had been moving around normally all day.  This sequestering had done them both well.  Jihoo gave the back of her neck a kiss and decided he'd better call for room service.

It was past noon and definitely past breakfast, but his driver knew his employer well and was already on his way back from one of the western hotels with their breakfast and the bouquet of flowers, Jihoo had requested.  Not being able to decide where to place them, he asked the driver to set them on the coffee table when he came in, along with breakfast.  He figured they could eat sitting on the floor.

Breakfast would be arriving any minute and Jihoo thought he'd better begin waking his wife up.  If she was still tired from their beach day, it could take a few minutes to get her conscious.  Walking back into the room, he saw she had rolled over to his side of the bed and curled up with the pillows he had left in his place.  This was a good sign that she wasn't going to want to wake up.  "Sarang..." he gave her lips a peck, while rubbing her arm.  "Sarang..."  This time he gave her a kiss on the cheek and forehead.  "Sarang..."  His rubbing became more vigorous and began to dot her face with his kisses.  The figure on the bed burrowed deeper under the blankets.  Jihoo thought he saw a hint of a smile.  "Sarang...wake up."  He nipped at her lips and began to trail damp kisses down her jaw to her neck, where he let his tongue play with the back of her ear.  He was sure he heard her inhale.  Continuing his assault, he loosed the ribbon of her shirt at the top of her chest and dampened the now exposed skin with his kisses.  He knew he they would be headed for a cold shower after this; he felt her stirring under him or at least trying not to.  There was something about wanting what you couldn't have; fortunately, he could restrain himself.  They had limits at the moment, but the time would pass quickly, he hoped.

Ilana was definitely awake now, she had kept her eyes closed thinking that the feeling of his kisses were a sweet dream and reluctant to wake, but when she felt his kisses teasing the top of her s and the 'V' in between, she knew it wasn't a dream.  Reluctantly opening her eyes just a tiny bit, wanting to see him, but at the same time wanting to keep her eyes closed savoring his kisses.  He was busy at his task and didn't notice, so she closed her eyes again, trying to keep still.  His fingers drew lazy circles over her covered s, making her squirm even more.  Once finished with her s, his hand slid over her bare hip.  She vaguely wondered what had happened to her pants but was distracted by the hand on her hip that was now at her waist under her shirt.  The hand paused to lift her shirt up and then went back to its lazy but delicious caresses on her belly.

 - "HaEun-ah," the hand spoke, making Ilana want to giggle.  "Should we wake up Umma?"  The hand was replaced by kisses on her tummy.  There seemed to be a pattern, but Ilana couldn't figure out what.  She bit her lip, not to cry out as his kisses revisited the same spot on her lower abs.  She almost lost all control when he paused for a second, giving her a chance to breathe and then going back to the spot he had just vacated, he blew a raspberry.

 - "Ahh!!  Jihoo!!"  She smacked the top of his head and he chuckled right up against her stomach, sending more vibrations through her body.

 - "Hajima!"

 - "Mwo?  That was from HaEun, she wanted to wake up Umma."  She was narrowing her eyes at him and trying not to laugh at the same time.  "Annchoah?  Doesn’t Sarang like to torture me, by doing that?"

Okay, this was her payback, but still.  His reaction was much more entertaining to watch.  "Na have only done that to you twice!"

 - "Once more and we're even," he decided to wipe the mock scowl off her face with a kiss.  He crawled back toward the head of the bed and kissed her thoroughly.  He loved her lips gently at first, then claimed her tongue boldly, not letting her have control like he always did.  When at last he was sated, he moved his lips against hers, just barely touching each one.  "Annyeong hashiminika anae," he said while she still tried to recover.  "Ginyeom ir eur chukhadeuripnida (Happy anniversary)."

 - "Happy anniversary to you too.  Don't expect me to say it in Korean after just waking up and that kiss."

They lay together, lazily with legs entwined.  "Breakfast is here," he thought he heard the rustling of bags as he was giving sweet torture to his wife.

 - "How will we celebrate?"  Ilana knew what she had planned and wondered if she had her tablet here.  If she couldn't play it for him, at least she had the accompaniment on her tablet music player.

 - "Sarang will rest after breakfast and then after Na will help her shower."

 - "Nampyon is so considerate," she tapped his nose with her index finger.

 - "Greomyo," he trapped her hand.  "Then...Sarang will wear her red dress and we'll go on a date."

 - "Chinchayo?!"

 - "Deh...Sarang is doing well, her blood pressure is staying down.  HaEun-ah has been active, deh?  Nothing out of the ordinary?"

 - "I'm glad she's not a kicker like JaeWook was.  She squirms a lot, Na think she's bored."

Jihoo laughed.  "Has Umma been bored?"

 - "Ani, na have had nampyon at my side the entire time.  Nae can't have that in Seoul."

 - "Anae is getting spoiled," he let go of her hands and sat up, leaning back down for a quick kiss.

Ilana sat up to scoot herself to the edge of the bed, but Jihoo quickly hooked one arm under her legs and another at her lower back and carried her off.  "Sarang!  Na can walk!"

 - "Sarang is going to rest today so we can go on our date."  He sat her down in the living room by the food and flowers that had been laid out and gave her another soft kiss.  "Gomawo for the love note.  Na can't wait to find the rest."

 - "Anieyo!"  Her attention was soon caught by the bouquet of flowers on the table, "areumdawoyo!"  The vase on the table contained eleven perfect red roses and one burgundy rose.  She remembered their first 'official' date as Jihoo had called it and tears sprung from her eyes.  "Gomawo!  nomu saranghae."

Jihoo wrapped his arms around her back and nestled her against him.  "Nado nomu saranghae.  Gomawo for obeying Yesu and coming back to me.  Na would've waited for you indefinitely."

 - "Yongwonee," she whispered, trying to get the tears to stop.  "Breakfast looks daeback!  It's been a while since we've had pancakes."

Jihoo had already wiped her tears, "anja (sit) and we'll watch a movie for a little while, deh?"

 - "Arraso!"  Her stomach decided she was delaying breakfast a little too long let out a long growl.  "Deh HaEun-ah, Umma will feed you right now!"  Laughing, they both sat down to eat.

After their Dim sum dinner, Jihoo allowed for a few minutes of walking to digest their food.  The couple turned heads with his dark blue suit and crisp white shirt and Ilana's red dress.  She had left her hair down for the first time in about a week, knowing her husband would be pleased.  Truly, his admiration was evident in his smile as he couldn't help turning to stare at her.  She was a very pretty woman and not solely because of her outside beauty.  It was that innocent and caring heart that made its way outward.  "Sarang, wae do you keep looking at me?"

 - "Yippeun."

 - "Na look like a tomato," she complained.  The last time she wore the dress it camouflaged her growing mound quite nicely.  Now, it seemed like HaEun had doubled in size and there was no hiding the fact that she was pregnant.

 - "If Sarang keeps blushing, she really will look like a tomato," he said to the top of her head.

 - "Aish!  Sarang is making fun of me."

 - "Anieyo."

A store filled with trinkets caught Ilana's eye.  "Can we go in, juseyo?"

 - "Deh," Jihoo laughed.

Perusing some of the merchandise, Ilana was distracted by a pretty fan and walked off.  Meanwhile, Jihoo's eye was caught by a unique and pretty jade bracelet.  He studied the bracelet in its case and then asked to see it.  While the quality wasn't the best, it wasn't bad either.  He began to haggle with the salesperson.

Ilana had a basket full of trinkets:  fans for Suzy, Nana, and Sarah back home and a Chinese hand drum and a happy kitty, for when HaEun was born, and silk handkerchiefs for her husband, Brendon, and JungMin.  Satisfied, she went to find her husband.

 - "Sarang?  What are you getting?"  She asked curiously.

 - "Ah, there you are, give me your hand."

 - "Wae?"

 - "Sarang is supposed to obey, not ask wae?"  He wore that carefully schooled humor in his eyes.

 - "Ah deh, HaEun Appa," she played along and presented her hand for his inspection.  He promptly clasped bracelet of hearts, alternating in green and lilac jade, onto her wrist. 

She wore one of his Grandmother's necklaces and it coordinated well.

 - "Sarang doesn't need to buy me anything."

 - "Obedience...if Na say Sarang will wear this bracelet, she will."

Ilana stuck her tongue out at him.  The bracelet was pretty and wasn't heavy like many of the jade pieces.  Again, he went out of his way for her.  All she had for him were the handkerchiefs.  "Choah, what about Sarang?  Na get to pick out something for nampyon too."

 - "Anieyo, let nampyon by his anae gifts."

 - "Anae wants to buy nampyon gifts too."  The sales lady thought they were a sweet couple and if they were in the mood to spend money, she might as well be the one to profit from it.  Ilana carefully scrutinized the jewelry case.  After careful consideration, she chose a bracelet that she knew just by looking at it, that it cost way less than hers.  The simplicity of the bracelet with the jade and silver hardware suited him more than an elaborate and weighty large stoned bracelet.  "Choah this one," she pointed to the bracelet in the case.  "Sarang will have more occasion to wear this casual bracelet more than the other jewelry in the case."

 - "Sarang knows Na don't need jewelry."

 - "Na don't need it either, hajiman nampyon insists."

 - "Maja, choah presenting gifts to nae ane every now and then.  Gwenchana?"

He was smiling, regarding her intently with his eyes wide open.  She always knew he could look inside her heart and it felt exactly like that's what he was doing.  She had to blink or start crying again from the intensity of her love for this man.  "Gwenchana, hajiman let your anae buy you things every now and then too, deh?"

 - "Arraso."

After a minor squabble over who paid for what, they began to walk back to the waiting car.  "Sarang has been on her feet long enough."

 - "Gwenchana...," she whined.  It was such a nice evening, the cloud cover and her pregnancy kept it relatively warm.

 - "Ani, Sarang.  When Na get you back to Seoul, what will our Uissa say if he finds you haven't been resting at all?"          

 - "Anieyo!  Sarang said Na was much better."

 - "Maja, that's only because Sarang has been resting."

 - "Mollah...I'm better, that's all that counts.”

 - "Deh, if Sarang relapses, naega not defending you in front of Uissa."

 - "Annchoah, Uissa."

He chuckled but knew she hadn't warmed up to him at all.  His mannerism was much different than her Obstetrician in California.  Not only that but his gender and the fact she'd only seen him when while suffering severe complications were several strikes against him.  His skill was not enough to overcome her opinion of him.  "Sarang...provided..." he spoke slowly wanting her to understand.  "...if you are well and do not require special attention, Na will look into a birthing center.  We can investigate when we get home and we'll attend our birthing classes at the one we choose, deh?"

 - "Chincha?"  She stopped walking and looked up at him with such joy.  She threw her arms around his waist.  "Gomawo Sarang.  Nomu hangbokhae."

He laughed; "anae is easy to please."

 - "Nampyon is too."

She didn't realize just how right she was.  Her simplest gestures never failed to claim his heart.  That afternoon he had found more notes in the pockets of his suit and also a few mixed in his underwear.  Since she had been napping, he laughed silently so as not to wake her.  It made him want to tear apart the entire hanok to find them, but he contained his impulses.  Half the fun was finding them when he least expected to.  "Nado hangbokhae."  Jihoo stopped walking again and faced her.  Before she knew what was happening, he scooped her up into his arms, heedless of the stares.

 - "Yah, Sarang!  Put me down!"

The car was only a few yards away, their driver was expecting them and smiled at the site.  Acknowledging them with a head nod, he opened their door.  The two captain chairs were arranged right next to each other.  Ever since Ilana's hospital stay, that was how Jihoo wanted them.  It was too difficult for her to climb all the way to the third row where they could sit side by side.  This was the second-best option.  The ride back to the hanok was mostly silent, every now and then, they were content to just breathe in each other’s scent and let the other's presence fill the air around them.  They held hands and Jihoo the back of hers with his thumb, making her drowsy.  "Sarang is making me sleepy," Ilana said.

 - "Gwenchana if Sarang wants to sleep, Na will wake you when we get there."

 - "Ani, Na have slept so much this week, Na don't want to get used to it."  She saw his smile.  As much as he always told her how much he liked her smile, she also loved his.  Ilana looked at their wrists and their new bracelets, a funny thought struck her, and she snorted from trying to keep from laughing out loud.  Horrified, she covered her offending mouth.  "Mian," she barely reigned in the giggles after that.

 - "When anae paboya is done, na expect her to tell me wae she is laughing so hard."

At this Ilana began to laugh so hard, tears fell from her eyes, just like she did at the jade market in Macau three years ago.  HaEun did not appreciate all the shaking about and let her Umma know.  "Ow, ow, ow, mian, HaEun.  You don't like being bounced around.”

Jihoo alarmed, removed his seatbelt and placed a hand on Ilana's stomach, "gwenchana?"

 - "Deh, Sarang, it's her usual pushing when she doesn't like something."  Jihoo rubbed the spot and Ilana closed her eyes, still smiling, but enjoying the rubbing.  "Sarang!"  She realized he didn't have his seatbelt on.  "Put your seatbelt on!"  She scolded.

 - "Deh, na was just worried."

 - "And Sarang is going to worry me if, God forbid, something happens."

 - "Let's not think of that," he said, abruptly.  Ilana reached for his hand and squeezed it.  The gesture soothed his nerves immediately and he relaxed again.  "Wae was Sarang laughing?"

 - "Ani," she could feel her face heating up.

 - "It must be something if anae is blushing."

 - "It's dark!  How can you tell?!"

 - "Greon, Anae was blushing!"  She remained sulking and Jihoo reached over to pinch her cheek.  She rubbed the spot exaggeratingly as if he'd pinched her hard.  "Tell me or Na will pinch anae harder."

 - "HaEun Appa is being nosey."  He was getting ready to assault her cheek again when she covered her face.

 - "Arasso!  Hajima!"  They discussed everything and anything, but this was a little embarrassing and she felt silly.  She took a deep breath before speaking and ran her finger over his bracelet.  This way she didn't have to look at him.  "Choah, our bracelets, hajiman...can we not wear them that often?  Na really don't want to be pregnant every nine months."  Jihoo couldn't contain his laughter if he tried, even their driver was grinning.  "Ara it's just a myth," Ilana said, behind her hands that covered her embarrassed face.  "...hajiman just in case."

 - "Deh Sarang, Yesu has orchestrated our bodies so perfectly, Na don't think a rock will do anything.  Hajiman that's not nae specialty....,” he took her hand, pressing his lips to the back of it while his eyes shown with mischief.  "If Yesu wants to send us babies every nine months, it must be for a reason."

 - "Sarang!!"  She had nothing to smack him with, nor could she reach his ticklish spot, so she just stuck her tongue out.  "Pabo nampyon."

 - "Disrespectful Anae."

When they got back to the hanok, Jihoo told his wife to go inside and he would follow, there was something he needed to ask from their driver.  He also told her not to change out of her dress just yet.  Ilana was curious but complied.  Not knowing what to do with herself, she lay on the couch and the TV.

It took more than fifteen minutes for Jihoo to return, Ilana was getting worried and impatient.  She had just stood up to go look for him when he came running back in.  "Kaja," he took her hand, leading her to the door.

 - "Where are we going?"

 - "Sarang has to close her eyes and Na will help her with her shoes."  When she didn't comply, he threatened to blindfold her and acted as if he was going for a cloth to cover her eyes.

 - "Arraso!  Arraso!"

When they were finally standing outside, Jihoo told her to open her eyes.  "Wau!!!"  All around the yard were strings of lighted lanterns in all different colors.  "Nomu choah!"

Jihoo watched her eyes grow wide with amazement and her smile was so wide, it practically stretched from ear to ear.  "Chincha?"  He asked, just to tease.  It wasn't like she was hiding her evident delight.

 - "Omo, Sarang!"  Again, her eyes traveled around the yard.  "Areumdawo (Beautiful)!"

 - "Na won't feed you roasted sweet potatoes tonight, you'll get charcoal all over your dress."  She laughed, remembering both their hands and faces covered in charcoal as they enjoyed the simple treat.  "Na have a treat for us to celebrate with later...hajiman...First, Ilana-ssi, may I have the next dance?"  He bowed low to her and she graciously accepted.  Familiar music began to play, it was the song HyunJoong sang during their wedding ceremony.  Where HyunJoong sang of wanting to do these things, if it were for the one he loved, Jihoo began to speak in the present.  "I give everything of me to you, Sarang.  Na breathe inside your heart...and Sarang gives me all of herself..., because you are a part of me.  Na feel your littlest sadness as if it were my own.  We've become more alike you and I and Na always smell something fragrant when you're by my side.  Sarang is nomu areumdawo, sometimes thinking of you brings tears to my eyes."  Ilana wanted so much to gaze into his beautiful eyes.  She could see every emotion; both the ones being expressed and those that weren't.  Some feelings go beyond words; losing the fight against her own tears, she buried her head in his chest, where it had always been at home.  "Sarang is mine and naega hers.  Nomu haengbokhae and thankful that we have been given to each other, to walk this earth together."  He didn't want to think of the end of their days, only the here and now; to live each moment together.  "Saranghaeyo, Ilana Contreras, this fact will never change."  From there the lyrics repeated themselves and he, who had been reigning in his own tears, let one fall neatly on top of her head.  His love for his wife and his happiness at her side filled his heart to overflowing.  As the Bible verse says, my cup runs over.  Who were they to be so blessed?  It was almost like a dream, even in their trials, for they still had them, he felt blessed.  They were alive and not just existing like they had for so many years.

The song ended and Jihoo tilted her face, kissing her softly, both still with tears in their eyes.  "Gomawo, Sarang," she said hurriedly when he released her lips.  "For waiting for me."

 - "Anieyo, gomawo for coming back to me."  They rested in each other’s embrace for a little longer, neither wanting to break apart just yet.  Jihoo finally spoke.  "Kaja, Sarang needs to get off her feet."  She nodded and happily followed him, hand in hand, back to the porch.  Someone had brought out quilts, lit a fire in the same brazier they had roasted their sweet potatoes in and set out two champagne flutes.  Ilana did not really know of the F4's magic and that's just the way he wanted it.  Jihoo did things very subtly and less flamboyant than the others did, only wanting to please her and not draw attention to himself in the process.

 - "Sarang, what is this?"

 - "Anja."  Ilana sat with her legs extended and leaned against the post.  Once she was situated, he handed her one of the flutes.  "Gwenchana, it's a sparkling fruit drink," Ilana sniffed it appreciatively.  "Nae maum ui sarang (love of my heart); to a lifetime of anniversaries."  Jihoo clinked his glass with hers.

 - "Masheesuhyo!"  Ilana had taken a sip and it was delicious.  "HaEun Appa, where did all this come from in just a few minutes?"

Jihoo grinned but didn't answer.  "Sarang, there's dessert.  It's a chocolate soufflé."  He knew she'd be delighted with the treat.  Just looking at her eyes grow big confirmed it.

Ilana took the individual ramekin and was in heaven with the first bite.  "Mm!  It's still warm!  Eottoke (How)?"

Jihoo took a bite of his own soufflé.  "Maja, masheesuhyo."

Ilana indulged in her treats until she remembered the gift she was going to give her husband for their anniversary.

 - "Sarang?  Gwenchana?"  Jihoo immediately worried at the worried expression on his wife's face.  That and she stopped eating her soufflé.  Chocolate doesn't live for very long when it's in her grasp.

 - "Deh...,"she said absentmindedly.  She suddenly took Jihoo's hand that now rested on her hip.  They were sitting face to face, with him on the step below her.  "Sarang," she gave him an imploring look, worrying him more.

 - "Sarang, what is it?  Tell me," he said abruptly due to his concern.

 - "Sarang, I need my tablet, juseyo?"

 - "Anieyo, annchoah how you are suddenly flustered," he rubbed his free hand over her arm trying to keep her calm.

 - "Gwenchana, trust me.  I need my tablet."

 - "Wae?  Then Na will decide if I should give it to you."

Ilana sighed.  "Overprotective Ajussi.  Na was working on something for our anniversary.  This wasn't the way Na wanted to present it, hajiman...I don't want to wait."

Jihoo could see her getting distressed and would burst into tears at any second.  The reason for being here was for her to rest and not stress.  He sighed.  "Gwenchana, take a deep breath and when Sarang is calm again, na will get the tablet, arraso?"

Ilana immediately complied and brought herself back under control and was rewarded with her tablet a few minutes later.  It hadn't been used and still had a charge, Ilana sighed in relief.  "Sarang, na wanted to play and sing for you," she fidgeted with the hem of her dress in embarrassment.  "Actually..., na wanted to spend our anniversary making music."  The whole plan, which she had been looking forward to, with such enthusiasm, now felt silly.  "Nae paboya, that's not an appropriate anniversary gift."

 - "Wae anieyo?  Pabo anieyo (not dumb).  Nae can still play for you."

 - "Na wanted to play together..."  Ilana ran a finger over her tablet screen and just hovered over the media player.  She'd worked for weeks on that song.  There would be other days to make music, but not the day of their anniversary.  Making up her mind, she drew in her lips nervously.  "Sarang, where was your music plugged in?  And can you help me get up?  Na can't do this sitting down."  Jihoo wasn't sure if he was unwittingly allowing her to stress herself, but he could tell this was important to her.  The determined look on her face said it all.  He helped her up and led her to where the Bluetooth speakers were.  Ilana bit her nail nervously, after syncing her tablet with the speakers.  "Anja," she ordered her husband.  His eyes opened in surprise but did as he was told and sat in a spot opposite of the one she had vacated.  Closing her eyes and taking a calming breath, like she always did before singing, she hit 'play'.  About to sing without a warm-up and having a sweet beverage and chocolate, she prayed.  “Let it be a joyful noise to his ears, Juseyo."  She walked toward him as the piano accompaniment began to play.  (Music)

In the morning when you rise

I bless the sun, I bless the skies

I bless your lips, I bless your eyes

My blessing goes with you

She loved to wake him up with kisses.

Jihoo grinned, thinking of those morning kisses.    

In the nighttime when you sleep

Oh, I bless you while a watch I keep

As you lie in slumber deep

My blessing goes with you

 - "Sarang, na watch your sleep."  Grinning, he reminded her she always fell asleep before him.  Losing herself in the song, her eyes didn’t leave his.

This is my prayer for you

There for you, ever true

Each, every day for you

In everything you do

- "Nado Sarang, nado," he felt his eyes getting moist and had to blink to keep the tears in.

And when you come to me

And hold me close to you

I bless you

And you bless me, too

Ilana tried not to blush as images of their intimate moments popped into her head.

When your weary heart is tired

If the world would leave you uninspired

When nothing more of love's desired

My blessing goes with you

When the storms of life are strong

When you're wounded, when you don't belong

When you no longer hear my song

My blessing goes with you

They both knew life can turn them upside down at any moment and without faith and without each other, they could never hope to make it through.  She sang 'And when you come to me...' again, but this time, she took his hand.  When he stood with her, she placed his hand over her heart and kept it there until the final 'I bless you and you bless me too'.

When the song was over, he pulled her into his arms, without removing his hand from hers.  "Deh, nae sarang, I take you with me always.  Sarang is nae blessing and Na pray to be a blessing to you and dtal."

 - "Sarang is and always will be."  With her free hand, she pulled his face down to meet hers and kissed his cheek softly.  Teasing him, she made to walk away, but he didn't let her.

 - "Yah," he pulled her back to him.  Grinning, she kissed just the corner of his lips and ran her thumb over his perfect bottom lip.  "Anae is not going to get the rest of her dessert..."         

 - "Ani!  Ani!"  This time she gave him the desired kiss, taking his lips slowly as if to savor them like the chocolate.  "Happy anniversary," she spoke against his lips, letting her words vibrate against them.

 - "Ginyeom-il chugha haeyo," he wanted more of her kisses and indulged himself once more.  They finished their dessert, unable to keep from grinning at each other.  As lost as they were in each other, neither noticed nor cared that not a sound of another person could be heard.  In fact, other than hotel staff on occasion, they saw no one other than their driver all day long.

Later, when they lay spooned together and Ilana could barely keep her eyes open, he remembered, he hadn't thanked her for his gift.  "Gomawo, nomu choah when anae sang for me.  Na would like to still have the musical evening Sarang wanted.  Hokshina before HaEun is born."  Ilana nodded and squeezed the hand that draped over her mound, too tired to respond.  As usual, he watched over her until her breathing changed into the soft hum that accompanied a deep sleep.  “Yesu, kansamnida.  Keep them safe from harm, may the rest of the pregnancy be unhampered by concerns.”  Jihoo snuck in one final praise and one final prayer for his wife and child.

I swear it feels like JanDi and Ilana have really been pregnant for seven months since I wrote their pregnancies.

Cool fact about the Fisker Karma (not why I picked the car), I take the train with one of the engineers.  I got so excited when this car came up in my search.

Anyway, our babies should be born next chapter

I haven’t been able to work on my editing of this story for a few weeks.  I’ve been caught in a Haze.  I’ll try to be more diligent, but there’s still more of Japan and Thailand coming up to get distracted over.