December 11, 2017

- “My parents aren’t coming until New Year,” Mina blurted out as soon as she saw him.  YoungSaeng called her to meet him in the stairwell around eleven at night.  She hadn’t been asleep anyway.

 - “Jagiya…” he held her tightly, rubbing circles on her back.  “Mianhae...ara the one day, back in May, was not enough and jagi hasn’t seen her dongsaeng in years.  It’s only a few more days, can nae jagi hold on just a little longer?”  Mina didn’t respond; she just wanted to be wrapped in his love and listen to his soothing voice.  There were only a few times these last three years she had been home sick, and this was one of them.  She was grateful to have him at her side.  “Nae jagiya won’t answer Orabeoni?”  His sulking girlfriend shrugged.  “Eottoke?  Na will have to punish nae yeoja-chingu by kissing her until she passes out.”  He felt her muffled laugh on his chest.  “Yah...jagi is tempting me, right now.  Look at Orabeoni,” he pulled away slightly and lifted her face. The shiny tears had given way to shining laughter.  “Does jagi want me to kiss her until she passes out or does she want her surprise?”  She stood there grinning, unable to decide.  “Aigoo...as much as Na want to kiss you until you pass out, nae surprise is much better.”  He sat her down; “Na don’t have any schedules during Christmas.  We can spend Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and possibly the next day together as well.  Na will figure out a plan for getting us in and out of the building, deh?  Na plan to kidnap you for those days.  Mina-yang will be at nae mercy,” he rested his forehead against hers and looked longingly into her eyes.

 - “Na think Orabeoni will find me a willing captive,” she felt tremors pulse through her body.  If his hungry look didn’t make her swoon, the next instance left her seeing stars.  He quickly grabbed the back of her head and kissed her hard, almost crushing her lips under his.  She was helpless against him and she didn’t mind at all.  She did mind when their kiss was over way too soon.  Mina was still in a daze and YoungSaeng had already gone down half a flight of stairs.  “Yah…Orabeoni can’t just kiss me like that and leave?!”

 - “Jalja, jagiya, Na will see you Christmas Eve!”

 - “Jerk,” she mumbled.  Too restless to sleep, she stayed up watching some of his performances until two A.M.  She would sleep through her alarm in the morning and be two hours late to work.  She cursed at her boyfriend’s picture the entire time it took her to get ready and even frightened the cab driver on the way to the office.

December 24, 2017

Mina smiled as consciousness dawned on her; they hadn't gotten in until three that morning, after attending a cast member's Christmas party.  Christmas Eve, Eve, she attended ‘The Three Musketeers’.  It was YoungSaeng’s second musical and he was just as amazing.  He was just as mesmerizing as he'd been on opening night.  She fangirled all over again like she did that night with Eric and the coordi Unnie-deul; laughing, crying, and surprised all in the same spots.  Her eyes feasted on YoungSaeng in tall boots, tight pants, and wielding a sword.  When she caught herself staring too long, her face would warm up as if she was on the beach in front of a bonfire.

With eyes still closed, she snuggled closer to his scent.  They prepared all week for her stay at his apartment, smuggling clothing and odds and ends.  Mina had gone grocery shopping a few times and dressed like a housekeeper to drop them off in his apartment.  Ilana’s housekeeper gave her the idea, along with some Matronly clothes and a long worn apron.  Mina also borrowed a cart and a hat from their maintenance department.  Since she was no longer handling the apartment building’s affairs, she had forgotten she had the insider access to things like maintenance and asking for occasional favors.  Finally, opening her eyes, she drank in the sight of her sleeping prince.  He looked so cute in the Christmas pajamas; she had bought his and hers pajamas and made him wear them.  The promise ring around his neck caught her eye.  He promised he belonged to her; he promised her a future.  They’d been dating for just over a year and a half.  Was it too soon to be getting anxious?  “Get over yourself, Mina,” she scolded.  "It’s not like you’ve given him everything and he’s stringing you along.”  Then her thoughts wondered if he was getting ‘everything’ somewhere else.  Breaking out of his grasp, she sat up abruptly.  “No way!!  No Way!!  No Way!!”

YoungSaeng was rudely awakened by his panicking girlfriend.  “Yah!  What was that all about?!”  He rubbed the spot on his chest she had hit on the way up.  She was sitting with her knees drawn up; her head resting on her arms.  She was clearly upset.  YoungSaeng sat up and wrapped an arm around her back and pulled her hair away from her face.  “Gwenchana?  Did nae Mina-yang have a bad dream?”  Mina nodded.  “Does jagi want to talk about it?”

His light caresses on her back and hair were soothing her frazzled nerves.  She finally lifted her head.  “You’re too perfect,” she pouted.

YoungSaeng laughed.  “Deh?  Mina-yang usually calls Orabeoni a pabo."

 - “Deh, Orabeoni is nae pabo,” she gave his lips a few quick kisses before remembering about Sunday Mass.  Mina pulled away and grabbed her phone.  "Orabeoni!  We're going to be late for Church!"  They only had enough time for a quick shower and no breakfast.  It was a good thing YoungSaeng told her they would need snacks for the day.  Mina spent a few hours the day before preparing.

YoungSaeng had also rented a car for their holiday.  He didn't really like to drive, but he'd do anything to ensure his girlfriend had a memorable time.  The entire few days were planned by him and she was given explicit instructions on what to wear each day and what to pack.  They arrived at Children's Grand Park, shortly after one in the afternoon.  "The park!"  Mina exclaimed happily.  "Nae had a really nice Christmas that year, thanks to Orabeoni."  They had grabbed their snacks and YoungSaeng wrapped an arm around her waist.  "Nado, Mina-yang.  More than Na wanted to admit.  Ara it's a day earlier than our last time here, hajiman Na wanted to recreate our most memorable times together."

 - "Gomawo!  Choah, chincha!!  We get to go sledding?"

 - "Deh."

 - "Kaja," she grabbed his arm and began to run.  After several winters in Seoul, Mina had become a little better at handling the cold and running up the stairs to the top of the slope while being chased by an overgrown kid, she was quickly warm again.

 - "Orabeoni...na can't possibly go up one more time."  Mina didn't know how long they'd been at it, but it had to have been more than hour of constant up and down.

 -  "Aigoo, how will jagi be one of my dancers if she can't keep up?"

 - "Na don't want to be one of Orabeoni's dancers, Na just want to watch your body moving to the music.  Preferably in tight pants," she muttered the last bit and blushed.

 - "Mworago?"

 - "Ani...kaja..." she began to run off toward the stairs again.  He stood still for a few seconds and then bent down to grab a fistful of snow.  "Mina-yang!"  When she turned to him, he pelted her square in the chest.

 - “Orabeoni!!”  Her boyfriend doubled over in laughter, she grabbed her own fistful of snow and marched up to him, letting the snowball bounce off his head.

 - "Yah!"

 - “Yah, yourself.  Does Orabeoni want to take me on?”

 - “Jagi wants a challenge?”

 - “Deh...it’s fair to warn you, I was trained by the best bullies out there.”

 - “Chincha?  You’re on.”

 They ran around screaming and laughing for a good thirty minutes and adopted a few kids that were also playing.  The entire little group split up boys against girls.  Mina’s snowballs went straight for the head, while the mischievous otter pelted his girlfriend in the chest area or upper thighs and if she was turned just right he’d throw a snowball right at her .  If he got her angry enough, she’d lose her control and miss.  He was good at quickly forming the balls.  While she went for size, he just went for ammunition.  He was able to hit her twice for every one she threw at him.  He’d knocked a few snowballs right out of her hands and now she was really angry.  “I was being nice because you’re my boyfriend, but all bets are off now.”  She gave up speaking Korean and picked up small bits of snow in each hand, squeezing them tight.  When they hit, he could really feel it.

 - “Yah!  Michin?!  You’re going to leave a bruise!”  His sweet girlfriend was on her knees, throwing snowball after snowball at him.  A few little girls were helping her, and the boys were yelling at him to retaliate.  He managed to get a few strikes in, but she was quicker.  “Namja...a little help, juseyo?”

 - “Deh, Hyeong!”  The boys began to help him make the snowballs.

 - “You’re a dead, Otter, now.  I’ll make you into a scarf!”  Mina decided to go in for the kill, she had removed her gloves.  It was the best way to get the snow nice and tight.  Her crew worked just as fast.  She inched closer with each set of pebble-sized snowballs she threw until he couldn’t fight her off.

 - “Yah, is this the same Agassi that was a ballerina and a model?”

 - “Sweet and spicy, can you handle the spice without getting burnt?  Here, let me help you cool off.”  Now, she was just dumping snow on him.  YoungSaeng looked for his chance to get even; eventually, the girls wouldn’t be able to keep up with her demand.  When the opportunity came, he tackled her down, regardless of her firm stance.  “Yah!!  You cheated!!”

 - “Hasn’t Mina-yang heard all is fair in love and war?”  He had her hands pinned and his legs were blocking hers, so she couldn’t get a kick in.  The little girls began to pelt him with snow and he didn’t care, he still laughed.  “Your Unnie is nae prisoner now!”  He announced.  “You can’t have her back.”

 - “Yah!  Let me go!”

 - “Ani!”

 - “The kids are watching!  You’re a bad influence!”

 - “Stop squirming!”  His self-satisfied smirk made her want to punch him.

 - “Orabeoni!  Get off me this very second or else…”  She didn’t get to finish her threat; he leaned in and captured her lips, giving her a slow and teasing kiss.  He had her by her weakness and she surrendered, melting into his kiss.

The kids began to cover them both in snow while chanting “bpo bpo, bpo bpo!”

 - “Saranghae…” she caressed his cheek.  “Even if you’re a cheater.”

 - “Nado saranghae…” he kissed her again hoping their little friends got bored and weren’t watching anymore.  “Youngwonee (forever).”

 - “Choah youngwonee.”  Mina looked around; the kids were no longer paying attention to them.  “They’re not watching, anymore…” she lifted herself, just enough to reach his lips as he still had a hold of her hands.  They indulged in a few more kisses before realizing they were both starving.

Taking the sky lift to the top of the zoo, there was a picnic area where they could sit and enjoy warm tea and their lunch.  "Is jagi cold?"  YoungSaeng saw her clutching the tea.  Most of their snacks were cold or room temperature, but the tea was nice and hot and so was the kimchi stew that had simmered on a very low heat while they slept.

 - "Jeogumyo..." he moved behind her and wrapped her in his arms.  She grinned, "Much better.  Na think I'm getting a lot better with the cold."

 - "In that case, jagi doesn't need Orabeoni."

 - "Anieyo!"  He had moved away from her and she reached back and grabbed his arms, wrapping them around her waist again.  "Na will always need nae Otter fur blankie.  It's always the perfect temperature."

 - "Maja?"  He gave her cold cheeks, equally cold kisses.  "Hangbohkae.  Na can't think of a better Christmas than to be at your side."

 - "Mmm, Orabeoni is always there when I need him most, gomawo."

He knew she was missing her parents and felt just a little guilty.  He hoped the end justified the means.  "In that case, jagi is enjoying her Christmas gift?”

 - “Deh, gomawo, Orabeoni,” She reached for his face and gave him a cold kiss.

 - “Mmm, jagi’s lips are cold,” he stood and helped her up.  “Kaja...the zoo is closed, now.  We’ll have to visit another day.  Let’s go back down and warm up jagi’s lips.”

 Mina threw her arms around his neck.  “Orabeoni can warm them up for me, right now,” she shadowed his lips suggestively.

 He took the bait, who wouldn’t?  He gave her feather-light kisses and slowly touched her lips with his.  Resting there only briefly, before making her lips cold again.  “Don’t pout, jagi, na have a better idea for making us warm.”  She glared at him, upset at being denied a kiss that would warm her all the way to her toes, and distrust.  She allowed herself to be dragged by the wrist, wondering what he was up to.

- “Orabeoni, We’re at the pop-up?  Chincha?  This is how you’re going to warm us up?”  They had left the car at the apartment building and walked the few blocks to the bar.  He grinned excitedly.  “We’ll be warm inside, and Na will order jagi alcohol to warm her from the inside out.”  Conscious of her mutinous glare, he approached her with a fast and passionate kiss, leaving her without words.  “Na will give jagi more of those to warm her from the outside in.”

 They walked in and found a seat.  Mina smiled at the memories of this place.  "We haven't been here since before your debut."

 - "Deh, na wanted to take a walk through our memories with you this Christmas."

 - "And what memory is at this pub?  Na drinking too much?"

 - "Mina-Yang has never drank too much,” he held her hand, smiling.  “Choah all the conversations we had here or walking back to your apartment.  Na Have told Mina she challenges me to think about Na life and who Na want to be in the future.  Choah that Mina has always been honest about her thoughts and was usually willing to share."

 - "Mmm, choa talking to Orabeoni.  We've always been able to argue...I mean talk about anything."

 YoungSaeng laughed at her biting humor.  "Deh, nae Mina-Yang draws me out like only KyuJong can.  Hajiman, Mina isn't really trying to get me to talk.  Our conversation just flows.  Choah hearing about your work and your family and even when Mina-Yang scolds Orabeoni."  At that, he kissed her hand. 

 - "Na confesses that it's sometimes easier for me to talk with namja.  Before Na had Orabeoni, Na talked with Chi TaeYoung-ssi.  He was always there to give Na advice about anything, but mainly about Orabeoni," she laughed.

 - "Oh...Nae was a big problem for nae Mina-yang."

 - "Not 'was'; 'is' a big problem,” she loved to pick on him.  "Nomu, nomu choah...Orabeoni consumes my thoughts, everything I do reminds me of Orabeoni.  When we get a new account, Na wonder if it could help you; when nae eat, Na think of your favorite food.  Na see your brooding face before na sleep."

 - "And Na see my angel's face each night before Na sleep.  It reminds me to pray that she have nice dreams about me."

Mina buried her face in the soju cup.  Little did he realize they weren't 'nice' dreams she had.  "Orabeoni, remember when we sat here talking about our unrequited love?"

 - "Aish...wae remind me?  It makes me embarrassed to think of nae shameful past."

 - "Wae?  Na was willing to wait for Orabeoni and even when Na found out or at least suspected that Ilana was your unrequited love, Na had no right to be upset.  Orabeoni was only nae chingu and nae was happy that na at least had that."

YoungSaeng sighed.  "Na made Mina-yang suffer a lot."

 - "Ani…Ilana told me once that na had nothing to worry about with Orabeoni.  You'd never stray because you had a loyal heart.  So, if you had quickly forgotten the affection you had for Ilana, then you could just as quickly forget any affection you might have for me.  Orabeoni has a great track record."

 - "Deh...na heart only will ever belong to nae Mina-yang ever again."

 - "Liar."

 - "Mworago?"  YoungSaeng suddenly panicked, wondering what he could have done wrong.  "Jagi, wae?"

 - "Nae have to share nae Orabeoni with his fans."

 YoungSaeng grinned.  His girlfriend was a silly bird at times, so he played along.  "Ah, deh...eottoke, the president of na fan club is yippeun and very accommodating.  The Agassi will do anything Na ask of her."  He inched his face closer.

 - "Orabeoni must be a pain to her," Mina teased, bringing her lips less than a millimeter from his, yet not any closer

 - "The Agassi doesn't complain.  She just wants to please...me," he only nipped at her lips and she was pushing him away.

 - "If Orabeoni only wants someone that's always self-sacrificing, then date a puppy!"

YoungSaeng smiled and pulled her into his embrace.  "Jagi is so feisty; Na might as well date JungMin."

 - "Orabeoni!"  She punched his side (not too hard) and stormed outside.  Laughing, he chased after her.  He caught her easily and gave her cheeks two kisses from behind.  "Saranghae just the way jagi is.  Na would never change anything about you."

 - "Chincha?"  She mumbled, praying he wouldn't answer.

 - "Yah...wae so sensitive?  Alcohol usually makes you bold, not shy and withdrawn.  Gwenchana?"  He turned her to face him.  He always had to pull the words out of Ilana's mouth but never Mina's, she was worrying him.

 - "Deh...Mianhae," she mentally kicked herself for being an idiot.  He was right, this wasn't like her.  She smiled and gave his lips a sweet kiss.  "Mianhae Orabeoni...pigeonhaeyo, Na must be cranky because of it."

 - "Eottoke, na present is getting jagi tired.  Na wanted to go somewhere else this evening, but let's just go back home."

 - "Gwenchana, Orabeoni!"  Now Mina felt horrible, she'd ruined the evening.

 - "Anieyo, we still have to decorate the tree and we can do what Na had planned at home as well.  Tomorrow we'll get a chance to rest more."

Once back at his apartment, they opened a bottle of wine, cranked up Christmas music, sang along, and set about decorating his small tree.  Mina's was bigger but so was her apartment.  Being a fake tree, it wasn't very pretty at first but adding their loving touches and golden ornaments, it turned out perfect.  She had a few presents for him that she had carefully hidden under the kitchen sink.  "The tree needs gifts," Mina ran off to her hiding spot and came back with a shopping bag.

 - "Ah...Na will get the gifts I ordered for Mina's parents."  He carefully didn't mention gifts for her.  Though he did have one carefully wrapped.

 - "It's almost midnight.  Let's open our gifts," she couldn't wait to give him his.

 - "Andwae!  It's not Christmas morning, yet."  He had a specific moment that he wanted to reveal his gift and not a moment sooner.

 - "Hajiman...we always open gifts at midnight...after midnight mass."

 - "Ah deh," he looked down at his watch.  "We still have time to get to Myeong-dong," the Cathedral was the closest place having Midnight mass.  He'd thought about it while planning their holiday.

 - "Jeongmal?"  For starters, they had just gone to Sunday mass that morning but aside from that, she looked down at her appearance:  leggings, tunic, hair still a mess from their snow play earlier and makeup all worn off.

 - "Mina yippeun, who cares?"  He took her hands and wrapped them around his waist.  "It will keep us out of trouble for a little while," he smirked at her as his lips gave a soft caress to the corner of .  "Na will let jagi have one of her gifts after."

His hot breath in her ear sent shivers down her body.  "Aigoo!!  Pyuntae (ert)!"  She pushed him away.

 - "Aish...what is nae Mina-yang thinking, eh?"  He taunted her, enjoying her flaming cheeks.  "Jagi is getting warm; the night air will cool her off."  They would arrive at the Cathedral late and underdressed, but that meant they didn't have to worry about going or not going to Christmas Day mass later that day.  Their appointment with their heavenly Father would be fulfilled, so they hoped He wouldn't mind if they spent the rest of Christmas with each other.

December 25, 2017

A.M.

Arriving back home closer to two A.M., Mina was already half asleep in the cab.  "Jagiya..., let’s get upstairs."  YoungSaeng was tugging her out the car.  Mina nodded and allowed herself to be dragged out into the freezing night.  Bundled up, they boldly took the elevator, YoungSaeng had already alerted security and they managed to unlock the service elevator just for them.

 - "Orabeoni, I get dibs on the bathroom first.  Na will be asleep by the time you get out."

 - "Yah...who wanted to exchange gifts...anja."  He gave her a gentle push over by the couch.  "Stay right there."  He brought her legs up onto the couch and adjusted a throw pillow behind her back.  He ran up to the bed and grabbed the quilt and brought it back down.

 - "Orabeoni...wae?!"  Mina had no idea what he was up to.

 - "Gwenchana, just get comfortable and stay there for five minutes," he walked over to the keyboard which was near his desk.  It was almost always out, so Mina didn't think anything of it.  He a soft percussion beat and began rap.  Mina sat up excitedly.  Was she about to get a sneak preview?  At that moment she didn't guess the composer wrote it with her in mind and dedicated to her?  "You're the only one but I'm stupid.  You're my only world and I'm busy," he rapped, seeing a soft smile form on her face.  The next lines were sung:

We walked busily facing front

When I looked back baby I'm sorry

Even though we are together, we miss some things

Misunderstanding, I know your mind

Oh, when I open my eyes, everything's passed

Baby baby baby baby baby baby

Every day even if I'm exhausted,

If I think of beautiful you

Even though I'm alone, I smile

Please smile at me even when I'm acting I'm busy

Oh, ay baby I'm sorry I'm busy

I’m sorry I’m late

He began to rap again, and Mina teared up.  It was true there were times they planned to meet, and he got distracted and forgot.  She would be a little saddened as those little moments were her lifeline.  They couldn't go out on normal dates; he wanted to protect her, and she didn't want to cause problems with his fans.  Each outing had to be carefully planned, so maybe they did miss out and misunderstand each other at times.  But to be honest, she too had to cancel a few times.  There were times she had planned to attend an event but had to stay at work instead of leaving early.  They both had their careers; both were busy.  It wasn't just him and she didn't want him to feel this burden. (Music)

I keep forgetting what’s important
I’m shameless but baby please don’t
Don’t look away, you know
You’re the only one

My head is full of you

Sometimes I'm tired, among so many things

There are lots of things that you want

Can't even count that

But I live for you anyway

Mina knew she was in his heart and mind and sometimes she might panic unnecessarily, but it always came down to the fact that he made her secure in his love.  Just like today and this moment.  She didn't need the dinner and a movie date to feel special.  How many women can say their boyfriend serenades them?  Not many.  How many times did he call her to the stairwell, even though he was exhausted after a long day and would rather just get home?  She never felt that he took her for granted and not many could boast of that either.

Oh, when I open my eyes, everything's been forgotten

Baby baby baby baby baby baby

Every day even though I'm exhausted,

If I think of the beautiful you

Even though I'm alone, I smile

Please smile at me even

When I'm acting like I'm busy

Oh, I want to listen to it one more time

Oh, I want to see your pretty face

At least once...

The song's end found Mina in tears but smiling.  He stepped in front of the keyboard and bowed to her before coming to sit next to her.  He drew her tightly into his arms, nuzzling her face with his.  "Na wanted to take you back to the same Noreabang (Karaoke bar), hajiman this worked out much better."  He gave her a kiss on the cheek as she wiped the other side with the base of her hand.  “Nae Mina-Yang Is smiling; nae Christmas gift must have been to her liking."

Mina finally found her voice.  "Pabo!"

 - "Didn't Orabeoni just say he was?"

 Mina wrapped her arms around his neck and peppered his face with kisses.  "Pabo...pabo...pabo!!  Choah!  Nomu choah!"  She was tearing up again.  "Orabeoni doesn't have to be sorry.  Ara your heart, even if you're busy."  She kissed, him again, slower, calmer.

YoungSaeng could drown in her kisses and these slow and sweet ones had no less an effect on him.  He pulled back.  This would be a perfect moment to give her real gift, but it wasn't time, he'd planned out the entire weekend with extreme detail, he needed to stick to the plan.  "Meri Keuriseumaseu, nae Mina-yang."

 - "Gomawo, Orabeoni, chincha."

 - "Should we get some sleep?"  He was looking forward to snuggling under the quilts and not waking up anytime soon.       

 - "Shiro!  It's Christmas!  Orabeoni still has to open his gifts!"

YoungSaeng felt a little guilty.  Should he have bought her something to open tonight?  "Gwenchana...Mina-yang won't receive the rest of her gifts until tomorrow."

 - "Mollah...Na won't be able to sleep unless I give them to you," Mina was already scooting past him and heading for the Christmas tree.  "Meri Keuriseumaseu," she gave his lips a brief kiss.  "These are for you," she handed him several boxes.

 - "Jagiya...gomawo," he grinned.  His girlfriend liked to shop for him and usually gave very good gifts.

 - "This one first," she pointed at a large, perfectly square box.  “Palli palli!”

 - “Arraso!  Impatient…” he deliberately took his sweet time admiring the wrapping.  Each box was a different wrapping; this one was elegantly wrapped in red metallic paper with gold poinsettias on the design.  She’d wrapped a red and gold ribbon around it and topped it with a big fluffy bow.  When he carefully removed the wrapping and opened the box, he found a book under the tissue with his picture on it and his idol debut date.  “Jagi, wau, what is this?”  Each page had pictures of him and stories of him.  Pictures of fans, some personal messages as well.  There were also pictures of his friends, of Eric and of course, his girlfriend.  But each page had something to do with events starting with his debut.  “Jagi, gomawo...you must have spent a long time on this,” he gave her a thank you kiss.

 - “The hardest part was picking a design, and then it all fell into place.  A paper scrapbook would have taken a long time to complete but, this digital one was easy.”

 - “Ara you’re busy and yet...you still thought of Orabeoni.”

 - “Na always think of Orabeoni!”  Even though it was already known in the office that they were a couple, she had to compliment her team on keeping a secret.  She did threaten them that they’d be fired.  Occasionally, her brain would turn work off and turn it onto her boyfriend.  MiRi or JiNa would catch her staring at his pictures with an absent smile on her face.  “Open the rest!”  She placed another package on his lap, this one in gold with a green ribbon and tag.  YoungSaeng un-wrapped this package just as carefully and pulled out a dark grey hoodie shirt with the picture of a sea otter on it.  He immediately removed the shirt he was wearing and tried it on.  “Choah?”  She asked.

 - “Deh!”  It was a perfect fit; a little loose for lounging or even working in and very soft and comfortable.  “Choah!”  He sat down again and excitedly grabbed the next package in silver with a green bow, wondering what more she could have gotten him.  “Nae Mina-yang is daeback, gomawo.”  It was his favorite cologne, the body wash, and an atomizer set.  He couldn’t help smiling, “Yah…is Mina-Yang saying Orabeoni smells bad?”

 - “Anieyo,” she raised herself on her knee and wrapped her arms around his neck, sniffing at his neck and hair, teasing his ear with her breath.  “Orabeoni smells masheesuhyo.”  She bit at his earlobe.  “Nae want to eat him up.”

 - “Jagiya likes to get herself and Orabeoni in trouble, doesn’t she?”

 - “Wae?”  She had no idea what he was talking about until he knocked her back onto the couch, devouring her lips and demanding entry into the wonderful warmth of .  His hands roamed naughtily down her side, teasing the swells under his thumb as he went.  Mina’s hands had a free will of their own and found their way not only to his hair, but to the warmth of his back, under his shirt.  She hooked her leg over his, bringing him closer to her body.  He made her shiver one minute and they very next minute she felt her body burning.  Someone had to stop; things were getting out of control very quickly, but whom?  Who would jump from the train first? His hips pressed against hers; she had conveniently and inadvertently made room for him.  One hand travelled over her and thigh while the other held her face as he bit and at her lower lip.  Mina heard herself hiss in pleasure; this spurred him on and he was teasing her neck with his breath and soft kisses, then giving a bite, making her sigh.  She reciprocated the pleasure by giving his jaw nibbling kisses until she was flicking that pleasurable little crevice behind his earlobe and then under it.  Mina smiled when she heard him draw in his breath.  At this rate they weren't going to stop, he had pulled up her shirt, tickling her upper abs and teasing the waistband of her leggings.  Again, she thought, somebody needs to stop.  "Orabeoni...," she brought her lips to his cheek to slow them down.  "Saranghae," she took the hand that was being naughty and kissed it and then brought his forehead to her lips.  "Saranghae...," she saw his eyes were dark with desire and she swallowed nervously.

YoungSaeng let out his breath.  "Jagi, mian...did Orabeoni make you uncomfortable?"

 - "Ani," she smiled adoringly at him and caressed his face.

 - "Nomu saranghae," he said.  "Orabeoni meant every word of that song.  Mina-Yang is nae world."  They shifted positions so that they were both on their side, with Mina against the back of the couch.

 - "Gomawo, Orabeoni.  Orabeoni has made the last three Christmases special for me."

YoungSaeng couldn't resist another kiss, but trying to restrain himself, he nuzzled her face with his nose and then kissed her eyes.  Anything more would lead to more barely restrained passion.  It was getting harder to hold back.  They'd come this far, what was six more months?  He lost himself in her sweet face, just thinking he'd be asking her to be his forever.  The promise ring was temporary.  It said, 'I'd like it if you were mine at some point'.  An engagement ring said, 'I want you to be mine forever, starting now'."

 - "Orabeoni?  Pigonhaeyo?"  He hadn't moved but just stared at her.  "Orabeoni is just staring."

 - "Nae Mina-yang is yippeun, Na don't want to close my eyes for fear that you'll disappear."

 - "Pabo Orabeoni...Neaga yours until after Christmas."

 - "Only until after Christmas?"  He pouted.

 - "Orabeoni knows nae can't stay here, forever."

 - "Ara...one day Mina will be mine forever," he tucked her head into his chest, not seeing the swell of happiness on her face at the thought of forever.

- "Jagi, let's get ready for bed."

 - "Shiro..." even if it was just after three in the morning and would be lying if she said she wasn't sleepy but she wasn't ready to close her eyes.  "Can we just stay like this all night?  Nado am afraid Orabeoni will disappear."

 He laughed at her cute self.  "What does Mina do back home on Christmas."

 - "Eat and drink," she laughed.  "We have a late dinner, Mexican tamales and Haha makes rice balls, and lots of cookies.  We all attend midnight mass, come back, and feast on more food and sweets.  Matt's chingu or any of Appa's chingu that don't have family to celebrate with usually comes over and we play games, tell stories, and Appa takes out his guitar..." Mina smiled into his chest but was glad he couldn't see, the homesick tears, threatening to fall.

He felt her take a deep breath.  Was he selfish for wanting to have her all to himself this holiday?  "Mianhae, Mina-yang."

 - "Wae?"  She shifted to make herself more comfortable and draped her arm around his waist.

 - "Because you're stuck with Orabeoni this Christmas, instead of with your family."

 - "Gwenchana, I'll see Appa & Haha soon and Orabeoni has given me a wonderful gift."

 - "Choah?"

 - "Mmm..."

YoungSaeng inched forward, giving her a slow kiss and unable to resist, tugged on her pouty lower lip.  "Choah?"  He asked again.

- "Mmm." Mina inched forward as if to kiss him back.  Instead, with a quick shove, he was off the couch and on the floor with Mina landing on top of him, laughing.  "I get the bathroom first!"  While he was still stunned, she peeled off his hands that were steadying her and ran to the stairs.

Sometime around four A.M., the couple had yet to fall asleep.  After more teasing kisses, Mina laid with his arm under her head and holding hands over his stomach, enjoying the way the Christmas tree lights cast pretty patterns onto the ceiling.  "Is Orabeoni still awake?"

 - "Mmm...," barely, anyway.  He let go her hand to caress her face.

 - "Neaga looking forward to more Christmas with Orabeoni.  Gomawo, nae couldn't ask for more."

 - "Nae pabo yeoja chingu should always ask for more," she laughed at this and he shifted her so that her back was against his chest.  He wrapped his leg and arm over her and holding her tight he buried his face in the back of her neck.  "Saranghae, more than nae jagiya could ever imagine.  Ja (sleep)," he turned her face to his for a goodnight kiss.  These feelings for her were overwhelming at times.  They were definitely more than just brotherly affection or wanting to care and protect a sweet girl.  No, these feelings were possessive and all-consuming.  They claimed her as his both in heart and body, even if they'd never gone beyond passionate kisses and teasing caresses.  "Orabeoni will end up sleeping right through the rest of jagi's gifts."

Mina yawned, his words suddenly reminding her that she was tired and way past her bedtime.  "Jalja, Orabeoni.  Saranghae," she clasped his hand in hers and that's how they fell asleep.

YoungSaeng woke up to the smell of food; he rolled over expecting the soft warmth of his girlfriend, only to find a cold pillow.  He opened his eyes, annoyed, to see that she was no longer in bed.  Sitting up to look over the rail, he heard instrumental Christmas music, playing softly.  Looking at the clock, he saw it was almost one.  "So much for lying in bed until dinner," he mumbled.

Mina hummed while she worked.  Thankfully, she made sure her boyfriend's kitchen had all the essentials.  Dessert was in the refrigerator and she had chopped potatoes, herbs, mushrooms and spinach.  Now all she had to do was assemble the breakfast casseroles, season the potatoes and throw it all in the oven. While that cooked, she planned to brown some bacon.  Concentrating on moving all the individual casserole dishes to the oven, she didn't notice YoungSaeng sneak into the kitchen from the other end.  Closing the oven, she screamed when unexpected arms clamped around her waist.  Her attacker grinned and kissed her cheek.  "Are you trying to give me a heart attack?"

 - "Tch...Banmal (informal speech) and on Christmas morning?"

Mina turned to face her mischievous boyfriend.  "Deh, mianhamnida, je (I - fm) was startled by Orabeonim.  Eottokaeyo if je dropped the food and Orabeoni was soiled or hurt by broken pottery?"

 - "That's wae nae waited for jagi to be done," he gave her lips a quick kiss.

 - "Pabo," she pinched his cheek.

 - "Smart ," he pinched her cheek.  "Should na help or just stare at the way the pajama pants hug your bottom."  He couldn't help grabbing her cute and pull her toward him.

 - "Yah!!  Orabeoni!"  She hooked her foot around his and knocked him down.  Standing tall, she sauntered back to the cabinet to take out his griddle to cook the bacon on.

YoungSaeng picked himself up, grinning.  He loved to pick on his cute girlfriend.  "Arraso, jagiya...Na will get back at you for this."  Mina stuck her tongue out at him.  "Na think I'll have to discipline nae disrespectful yeoja chingu."  Mina grinned and stuck her tongue out at him again, before running.  He plucked her easily from the stairs and dragged her to the couch for a tickle fight and 'punishing' kisses.

Mina was putting the finishing touches on her outfit.  Thankfully, YoungSaeng had a full-length mirror.  She left her ears bare but draped a pearl necklace around her neck and a bracelet on her wrist.  The weekend and the morning had been wonderful.  Since there was nowhere they had to be in a hurry, they enjoyed a full bottle of champagne with their brunch.  Giggling, they fed each other the white rum-soaked fruit parfait.

Mina was pleasantly relaxed after their meal; she just couldn’t get her limbs to lift her up.  “Gwenchana, we don’t have to get ready yet.”  YoungSaeng wrapped an arm around her and smeared whipped cream on her cheek.

 - “Orabeoni!!”  She tried wiping it off, but he caught her hand.

 - “Doesn’t Mina-yang, know it’s an excuse for me to kiss it off?”  He leaned into her and did just that.

 - “Like Orabeoni needs an excuse,” she smiled lazily at her naughty boyfriend.

 - “Anieyo, hajiman it keeps things more interesting.”

 - “Mmm,” she grinned, “in that case…” she took a rum-soaked piece of apple and popped it into his mouth and she took one as well.  Once done chewing she kissed him, letting the tip of her tongue taste where the piece of fruit had passed.  “Orabeoni is masheesuhyo,” she giggled and then went back to her excuse and ‘asking for entry’ into his intoxicating mouth.  At first contact, a shock ran through her.  The combination of champagne and rum mixed with fruit, made her feel dizzy.

The feel of her tongue, suggestively caressing his, mixed with the alcohol, gave him more than a tingling feeling.  It was a primal need to conquer and possess. He leaned back, taking her with him.  There on the shag area rug, they used their lips and tongue and gentle caresses to try and quench a little of the fire growing inside them.  The problem was that it only added fuel to the flames, making them hungry for more.  Mina trembled as his hand passed under her shirt and over her bra covered s.  “Should I stop him?”  She wondered.  His hand softly caressed the exposed skin, not trying to remove her bra, but teasing the satin material.  Her body was at war with itself; half of her began to retreat from their kissing, but the other half did nothing about the hand.  She couldn't deny the pleasure of it.

YoungSaeng had moved his kisses to her neck and jaw when he felt as if she was no longer with him.  He too slowed his kisses and withdrew his hands from her body, placing them on her face and smoothing her hair.  He felt her relax again, and he laid her head on his chest.  His hands didn’t go past her neck.  “Gwenchana?”

 - “Mmm...mianhae…”

 - “Wae mianhae?”

Mina shrugged, “I think I’m buzzed.”  She settled herself more comfortably, her heart still raced but her nerves were settling.

 - “Na think jagi is more than buzzed.  You’re out of practice since Orabeoni has been working so much.  Gwenchana, Na would rather have nae jagi sober when I’m not around to protect her.”

 - “In other words, Orabeoni doesn’t want me buzzed around other namja.”

 - “Deh!”

 - “Jealous, namja.”

 - “Maja…” he gave the top of her forehead a kiss.  “Should we go back upstairs and take a nap or watch a movie.”

 - “Can we stay down here with the Christmas tree and take a nap or watch a movie?”  It wasn’t that she didn’t trust him.  She didn’t trust herself.  Had he been any other man, he would have urged her on and there's no denying she would have gone on willingly, but at what cost?  No, she decided to be patient and wait until he asked her the question she was longing to hear; then she would surrender all.  "I promise, Orabeoni," she told him silently.  "Saranghae," she looked up at him and couldn't help smiling a little shyly.  Cheeks flaming at the idea of what could have happened, she buried her face against his chest.

 - "Paboya," he wrapped her ponytail in his hand.  "Nado saranghae; trust Orabeoni."

YoungSaeng had used the bathroom first, letting his girlfriend lock herself in for as long as she needed to.  He'd been ready for a while and was left to pace while she got herself ready.  He bit his lip nervously, thinking of the night ahead.  Would she be surprised and happy?  Or just relieved that he wasn't stringing her along.  Would his stupid mouth obey him, or would he forget everything he'd wanted to say?  He was up and pacing again when the bathroom door finally opened.

 - "I'm done, Mian Orabeoni, I took too long.  Orabeoni should have let me get ready at home.”

 - “Gwenchana,” he turned to her and smiled.  She was beautiful as always, his eyes swept over her appearance from top to bottom in approval.

 - “Orabeoni!”  Mina’s face warmed at his scrutiny.

 - “Aleumdaun,” his hands circled her waist and gave her an approving kiss.  He was only slightly disappointed she didn’t wear something more revealing, but it was below zero outside.  “Mina-yang will be warm enough?”  She wore a silk red long sleeve blouse and a very pretty white skirt.  The two-inch lace trim gave it the illusion that it was shorter than it actually was, showing off her long legs very nicely.

 - “Anieyo, hajiman na have a long coat and a warm namja chingu.”

 - "We'll get Jagi more wine when we get to where we're going."

 - "Tch...Orabeoni just wants to see me disgrace myself again."

He grinned in response.  "Kaja, jagi.  Orabeoni will always be there to take care of you."

  - "Orabeoni!!"  Mina excitedly looked out at the parking for the river cruises.

 - "Choah?"  YoungSaeng stepped out of the car and opened her door.

 - "Deh!  Na had a really nice experience last time.  The food and ambiance were perfect."

YoungSaeng had his arm around her, to ward off the cold.  "And Mina-Yang's date?  How did he rate?"

 - "Jjang!"  Mina laughed and gave him a push with her hip.  He gave her a push back and then laughed as they walked to where they would be boarding.  YoungSaeng booked them in a corner table, not perfectly secluded but at least not in the middle of the dining room.  A bottle of Chablis wine and two chocolate truffles were waiting for them at their table.

 - "Orabeoni?  Who will drive us home?"  Mina was also a little concerned as they'd been drinking all weekend.

 - "Gwenchana, na have already made arrangements with a designated driver," like the perfect gentleman, he helped her off with her coat and took out her seat.

 - "Choah, gomawo Orabeoni!"  Mina was so happy having her boyfriend all to herself, that she expected nothing more.  This was the perfect end to their Christmas weekend.  They even had a souvenir picture taken by the nautical themed Christmas tree.  They attracted some attention, but people were respectful.  It was Christmas; they too were out with a loved one or family.  It also helped that YoungSaeng answered 'yes' to the question:  'Is Heo YoungSaeng-ssi in a relationship?'.  A select few knew that Mina was the lucky girl.

 - "Does nae Mina-yang want to take a walk before the safety instructions begin?"

 - "Anieyo gwenchanayo, we'd have to put our coats back on and it's comfortable here.  Na don't want to go back out to the cold."  Mina took YoungSaeng's hand in hers.  "Orabeoni is spoiling me.  How will Orabeoni top this Christmas next year?"

 - "Maja...," he became serious again.  "Jagiya...it might be another six months before I have more time off."  Mina knew he'd be busy with an H&M shoot, soon, but other than endorsement activity, she didn't know his schedule.  "Na might not be able to top this Christmas ever again...hajiman how about we go back to Karuizawa in the late spring.  Na have plans to return to Japan once a year.”

 - "Jeongmal, Orabeoni?  Eric won't get upset if Na tag along?"

 - "Na can guarantee jagi that hyeong won't say no."

 - "Yah...don't pick a fight with Eric," Mina scolded.  "He's been very good to us."

 - "Deh, jagi, he has, should we name our first child after him?"

 - "Orabeoni!"  She couldn't punch his arm, so she gave him a kick in the shin.

 - "Ahhyyysh...," his girlfriend sat across him trying an 'innocent' look.  "Jagiya...," he warned.  "Behave or you won't get your next gift."

This caught Mina's attention.  "Orabeoni...there's more?  Wae?!  We've done so much already, it will last me until next Christmas, chincha!"

 - "Na just have one small little gift left," he pinched his fingers together.

 - "Orabeoni is daeback!"

 - "Naega glad nae Mina-yang knows this."

 - "Conceited Otter."

Coming back from the buffet line with many of the same dishes they ate on their first cruise but with many more vegetables and YoungSaeng agreed to try some of her favorite seafood dishes.  The wine was nicely chilled and YoungSaeng poured for them.  Mina eagerly took a sip, letting the taste settle into her taste buds before swallowing.  "Choah.  Na have never had this wine."

 - "We had all kinds on the ship, this one wasn't as popular but it's a very flexible wine that pairs with almost anything.  What should we toast to this time?"  YoungSaeng thought back to their toasts from that night.

- "To nae beautiful marketing agent,"

 - "To nae Mina-Yang, nae yippeun yeoja chingu."

- "To..." Mina couldn't help smiling, remembering their evening over a year ago.  "...nae Orabeoni...may he always be mine...gombae!"  She clinked her glass against his, embarrassed a little at calling him, hers.  It had been a long time since she'd done that.

 - "Gombae!"  YoungSaeng also took a sip.  "Na have belonged to Mina-Yang since she first started calling me hers or was it before and Na just didn't realize it?"

 - "It’s been over eighteen months since we came on our first date and officially became each other's.  Open..." she fed him a grilled mushroom and shrimp.

 - "Mina's turn," he fed her back a piece of Kobe beef sushi.

Mina had served herself extra veggies to make sure he ate some and he had given himself extra meat, precisely for the same reason.  They continued either feeding each other or placing food on each other's plates and the bottle of wine was rapidly dwindling.  Mina took up her wine goblet as if it were a microphone.  "What has Heo YoungSaeng-ssi learned these last eighteen months?  Tell us, juseyo?"

 YoungSaeng sighed, as if in thought.  "Na have learned to get the results you desire, you need to plan carefully and work hard at achieving your goals."

 - "And what of sarang?"  Mina's eyes sparkled with wine-induced mischief.

 - "It's hard balancing career and sarang hajiman nae yeoja chingu is very understanding.  Bogoshipo nae yeoja chingu when I must travel and nae schedule is almost opposite of hers.  Nae have learned anchoah when she's not at my side.  Eottoke, we have different careers?"

 - "I'm sure Heo YoungSaeng-ssi makes it up to her whenever he can."

 - "Greomyo, hajiman...what if nae best isn't good enough for her and she tires of me?"  He grinned.

This time Mina put on her 'thinking' face.  "That could be a problem," she said with mock-seriousness.  "What has Heo YoungSaeng-ssi done to make her know his heart?"

 - "Na have given her a promise ring so that if any namja even thinks about flirting with her, he'll see she's taken.  I've also given her a bracelet, Na text her about twenty times a day and nae expect her to meet me several times a week.  This way, she doesn't have time to meet another namja."

Mina couldn't keep up the pretense and began to laugh, so did he.  "Chincha, just with work, na wouldn't have time to meet anyone," she tried not to think of their investor that had pursued her in the beginning.  "If it weren't for Orabeoni, na would have to let Umma arrange a meeting with a matchmaker."

 - "Andwae!  Mina-yah was meant for true and passionate sarang.  The kind of sarang that happens in the dramas."  He held her hand over the table and held her gaze intensely.

 - "Nae don't need a fairy tale," she smiled at him.  "Na just ever wanted a sincere and true sarang.  Gomawo, Orabeoni, for giving me that.”

 - "Gomawo for letting Orabeoni fill your heart and for being Na chingu and companion.  Even if it began with ulterior motives, jagi turned my head and flipped my heart around...Na can't imagine ever not having nae Mina-yang in nae life."

 - "When will we be together forever?"  She asked in her heart, but not out loud.  She promised to wait for him; she didn't want to be apart from him ever.  Finishing her glass of wine, she wondered if they should get another bottle.  "Orabeoni, since we're getting a designated driver, should we get another bottle?"

 - "Don't get drunk or nae might just take advantage of you," his words and roguish gaze, made her cheeks color and he loved it.

 - "What if nae take advantage of Orabeoni...?"  She shot back at him.

YoungSaeng cleared his throat.  "Hokshina, nae wouldn't stop you."

 - "Orabeoni!!"  Mina covered her face, he knew so well how to light that fire in her.

 - "Jagiya shouldn't be around HyungJun and YiHyun, you're picking up bad habits," he stood and took out her chair.  "Kaja for a walk, we need to cool off.   Na will have them bring us a bottle of Riesling to go with dessert.

The fountain was down for the winter months, and fireworks were usually only available on Saturday but there was a special fireworks spectacular for Christmas.  Mina would be lying if she said it wasn't freezing outside but just like at KyuJong & HyungJun's yacht wedding, they found a spot away from prying eyes and a small amount of covering.  He didn't block out all the wind with his body, but he did his best and the rest of her was warmed by his kisses.  Physical fireworks may have been going off over the river, but their kisses were creating fireworks all around them.  "Saranghaeyo, nae Mina-yang,” YoungSaeng held her close to him, to block out the chill.  "We don't have music to dance to this time, hajiman...we can dance all Mina wants when we get home, deh?"

They returned home, a lot less sober than they left.  They would both have to hit the gym and go back on their diets after all their delicious food and alcohol consumption this weekend.  They had tried several different mini-desserts and consumed only about half the bottle of Riesling.  It was enough to make them need to disembark more carefully than while boarding the ferry.  Though it was a short ride home, the cool night air and a bottle of water were enough to clear most of YoungSaeng's muddled brain (not that it was completely clear).  He forced Mina to drink water, but the alcohol was making her very drowsy.  He had to hand it to her, she held her own against him.  HyunJoong would be proud in his choice of wife; he laughed at himself.  Sober enough to hold his girlfriend upright and remember to take the service elevator to his floor, they walked into his studio and he took their coats.

 - "Orabeoni...ara it's still early, hajiman pigonhaeyo.  Nae will wash up and put on my pajamas."

 - "Ani!"  YoungSaeng managed to block her from heading upstairs.

 - "Nae promised Mina-yang a dance."

 - "Orabeoni...naega afraid I'll step on your feet," she couldn't help smiling at her sweet boyfriend.  "Gwenchana...Orabeoni has spoiled me enough this Christmas...Na can't ask for anything more."

 - "Christmas isn't over...aiiish...Na shouldn't have let Mina have that extra glass of wine."

Grinning, she wholeheartedly agreed.  "Maja."

 - "Eottoke?  Nae want to dance with nae yeoja chingu," he pouted.

Mina sighed, "how can na resist that pouty face?"

 - "It's not possible;" grinning he a random slow song from his phone.  It was an old American song, from before either was even born, but he happened to really enjoy the composer's music.  YoungSaeng swayed Mina carefully, neither one was quite steady on their feet at the moment.  He hummed along until coming to the chorus when he sang along: (Music)

I believe when I fall in love with you it will be forever

I believe when I fall in love this time it will be forever.

YoungSaeng gave her a slow spin, ending with his arms around her back, swaying with the rest of the song, singing in her ear.  Mina was a good dancer, so even beyond tipsy as she was, she stayed on her feet.

Without despair, we will share

And the joys of caring will not be replaced

What has been must never end

And with the strength we have won't be erased...

The last bit of the song picked up pace and Mina had to focus to keep up with her boyfriend.

Come on baby, let's fall in love

Come on let's fall in love

YoungSaeng bowed to his girlfriend, "ahh, that hurt," he grabbed his head that was spinning a little.

 - "Pabo, Orabeoni," Mina caressed his head.  "Choah, I've never heard that song," she pondered the last few words.  "Orabeoni...we've already fallen in love.  The song is in the past."

 - "Nae Mina-yang is smart," he rewarded her with a kiss.  "Hangbohkae?"

 - "Seulpeo (sad)...it's our last evening together.  Orabeoni will be an idol again tomorrow night."

 - "And nae Mina-Yang will be a V.P. again on Wednesday and her family will be here on Friday, she won't think of her Orabeoni."

 - "Anieyo!"  He always made her smile, even if she felt a little sad.

 - "Eottokae?  Nae don't want nae Mina-yang to be seulpeo," he gave her his 'otter' smile as he pretended to think.  "Ah!  Na have one more gift for nae Mina-yang.  Should na give it to her?"

 - "Orabeoni...chincha?  Orabeoni didn't have to get me anything..." he'd spent a lot of money this weekend, so far.  It had been wonderful, not only had they had almost three days together, he made her feel completely cherished and loved with every detail.

 - "Too late.  Mina-Yang can open it and if she doesn't like it, she can return it.  Jagiya, anja, Na don't want you to fall."  He guided her to the couch.

  - "I'm not that drunk..."

 - "Guerae...," he said sarcastically, as he left her on the couch while he retrieved a brightly covered box.  "It's not Christmas wrap, hajiman the different colors reminded me of nae Mina-yang;" he handed her a handbag shaped box covered in shades of blue, brown and pink with a pink carnation in the middle of the colorful triangles.

 - "Yippeun!  Gomawo!"  She admired the box for a little too long, earning her an impatient look from her boyfriend.  "Jamkanmanyo (Just a minute)!"  Opening it carefully, it was stuffed with tissue paper, matching the outside.  "Orabeoni...?"  She pulled out about five sheets of paper and nothing was yet visible.

 - "Keep going..."

After about the twenty-fifth sheet of tissue paper, a small box was revealed.  Mina's heart began to race.  "Orabeoni...?"

 - "Deh?"  He grinned at the look on her face, excitement, fear, and joy all took turns playing in her eyes.  "Wae?  Is there nothing in there?"  With shaking hands, she reached into the box and pulled out the tiny satin covered jeweler's box.  Seeing her nerves helped him lose his, he reached over taking the little box that she was too afraid to open.  Opening it himself, revealing a stunning round one-carat diamond.  The band intertwined and was decorated with small diamonds, making the entire thing sparkle in the track lights above.  "After our first ferry cruise, Mina-yang asked me if she could be selfish one more time.  So, now it's Orabeoni's turn.  Will nae Mina-yang allow Orabeoni to be selfish and ask her to always be at his side, laughing, dancing, walking, and even arguing?  Mina Rodriguez, nalang gulhun hejuleh (will you marry me)?"  He slipped the ring on her finger, halfway, waiting for her response.

Mina couldn't help the happy tears falling from her eyes.  He'd planned the weekend so perfect, she should have known.  She nodded her head, still too stunned speak.  As her boyfriend just smiled at her loss for words, she took a deep breath, finally getting a hold of herself.  "Deh!  A hundred times yes!"  She laughed and cried at the same time.  He had just slid the ring on her finger before she launched herself at him, burying her face against his neck.

He held her as she trembled with joy, "saranghae, nae jagiya," he kissed her hairline and the tears on her cheek.  "Na hate having to work and not being able to see you.  Na can't wait until June when nae can come home to nae anae, every day."  He caressed her hair and gave pressed little kisses to her lips.

Mina finally came to her senses and lifted her eyes to his.  "June?"  She asked confused.

With a sheepish grin, he confessed everything, from his conversation with his father, the reason her family postponed their visit and having booked and put down a deposit for the Stone Church, a reception, and their honeymoon in Karuizawa.  "Mina-yah isn't angry, deh?"

She was crying again, "O-Orabeoni...na...na w-was starting to fear that this day would never come, chincha.  Orabeoni has been planning this all year...and...and hangbohkae...chincha!  Orabeoni has...has made me so happy," she kissed him softly, as she was still trying to still her tears.  "Saranghae...saranghae...," she kissed him again and again.

June 19, 2018

- “Daughter, are you ready?  It's almost time."  Mrs. Rodriguez stepped into the hotel room she had shared with her daughter and now saw the finished picture.  "Oh..., you're lovely," They'd had their hair, makeup and nails done together, but seeing it all put together was too much for words.  Mina had forbidden her to be in the room, while she put on her wedding dress.  "Haha!  This is why I didn't want you in here!  You're going to ruin your make up and then I'm going to start crying and ruin my makeup...!"  Mina ranted at her Mother or else she'd start crying.

 - "Then you're both going to make us start crying," Ilana scolded.

 - "Spot on!  I don't need help in that department." Emily was three months pregnant and everything made her cry.

 - "Mujeres!!  El fotógrafo las espera (Ladies, the photographer is waiting!)"

 - "Papi says the photographer is waiting," Mina translated.

 - "Gwenchana, abeojim, it's just nampyeon!"  YiHyun shouted back.  Some weddings can't find one suitable photographer; Mina and YoungSaeng had two.  Kyoto Shim had been photographing Mina as long as she could remember, and she couldn't say no to Hyun & Hyun Studios, either; both photographers were wonderful at their craft.  The Bride and Groom decided they would let the two photographers hash it out amongst themselves.  Kyoto Shim shot their engagement photos and would take pictures at the ceremony, magazines were already bidding for the rights to display them.  HyungJun & YiHyun were in charge of video and pictures of Mina and her family before the wedding, as tradition in the U.S.

 - "That might be the case, child, but we only have the church for two hours.  I can see the headlines, now.  "Heo YoungSaeng, 30-year old Korean idol, gets jilted at the altar.  Exclusive interview to follow”!"

 - "Tío, YoungSaeng Oppa would be sending the cavalry to the hotel before it got that far!"  Ilana joked.  "Besides, it's too late for Mina to have cold feet; I promised I'll fire her if she ever broke Oppa's heart."

 - "No one is going anywhere," Mrs. Rodriguez said.  "But we really won't get anywhere if these pictures aren't taken."

 - "Wau!!  Eommoni can also pass for a model!"  Mrs. Rodriguez was dressed in a formal black (Kurotomesode) Kimono.  The skirt was decorated with pale peach flowers, accented with a light gray and a white peacock nestled amongst them in a dark green background that blended into the black base.  Mina's Grandparents also wore this traditional kimono reserved for very formal occasions.  Mina's Mexican Grandmother just couldn't make such a long flight.

 - "HyungJun-ssi is a flatterer," Mrs. Rodriguez wagged a mock-scolding finger at him.

 - "Chinchayo, Eommoni!"  HyungJun insisted.

 - "Imo is yippeun, chincha," YiHyun also agreed that Mina's Mother was very pretty.

 - "Very well, if you insist," Mrs. Rodrigues graciously accepted the compliment.

 - "Let's start with Mina hyeongsu-nim...do I have to call you that?"  HyungJun balked at having to call her sister-in-law.

 - "Deh...," Mina said flat out.

 - "Yah!  Na have been on your side since we met...”

 - "Dasom Appa, Mina has to be at rehearsal in a little over an hour."

 - "Our Mina has entertaining friends," her grandmother said.

 - "Very entertaining, soba (Japanese for one's own grandmother)."

HyungJun flashed Grandma Fuji a bright smile and then got to the business at hand.  "Arraso, Sinbu, sit and let Eommoni give you your final touches."

 - "I've been waiting so long for this moment, dear."  Mrs. Rodriguez was going to start crying instead of applying Mina's lipstick.

 - "Haha!!"

 - "Don't move, child, or your Okassan (Mother - fm) will have lipstick all over you," Grandma Fuji spoke from experience.  Her own Mother's hand trembled, applying her lipstick, having to apply it all over again.  "At least Mina's isn't the traditional bright red."

 - "Thank heavens, Haha.  I'm a nervous wreck and it's not even my wedding," Mrs. Rodriguez said.

 - “Might as well be,” Mr. Rodriguez, said, getting an eye roll back from his wife.  YoungSaeng had called them last summer asking them not to come to Seoul for Christmas.

“Abeojim...je was hoping to ask something.”

Mr. Rodriguez was completely caught off guard by the phone call from his daughter’s boyfriend, but remained calm, wanting to hear the boy out.  “Well, if you need an attorney I’d recommend someone closer to home but if you need help, I’m willing to impart what knowledge I do have.”

 - “Anieyo abeojim,” YoungSaeng laughed nervously.

 - “Well, as long as you don’t need legal services and I don’t need to bail you out of jail, then ask away, son.”

 - “Jeaga working non-stop this year to make a name for myself and to earn money.  Na want to be...worthy...Je mean…,” he continued rambling in this manner.  “Je need to know...if...if...,” he bit his lip and then released it again.  “...you have any...objections to me seeing your daughter.”

Mr. Rodriguez had been sipping on his coffee, waiting patiently for the Young man to spit out what he wanted, and was failing miserably, to say.  “Well…,” he answered after a long pause, for effect.  “My daughter and wife seem to like you,” he said.

 - “Ah, deh…” not sure if that was good or bad, but he pressed on.  “Would-would it be possible for Eommoni and Abeojim to postpone your visit this year?  Je-I would like to spend Christmas alone with Mina," realizing that 'alone' was probably not the best word to use, he tried to backtrack.  "I-I mean, Je-I have a surprise for her.  A-abeojim, Christmas in South Korea is-is for couples, not really for families,” YoungSaeng explained the tradition.

 - “Young man, you’re dictating when we can visit our own daughter?”  Thankfully they hadn’t bought plane tickets, yet.

“Abeojim, chinchayo, it’s not like that.  Na just need one day, ara it will be a year since you’ve seen her.  My family misses me too and I’m only five hours away.  What can je do for abeojim to consider my request?  Come a day or two after Christmas, I need to return to work, anyway.  Jaebal...je-I... want to plan something special for her, that night,” YoungSaeng kind of mumbled the last two words.

Mr. Rodriguez heard anyway and was immediately suspicious.  "YoungSaeng, if I recall, we had a certain conversation when we met, yes?”

YoungSaeng felt the phone slipping as his hands were sweating from nerves.  “Deh-deh, a-abeojim, na-na haven’t forgotten,” YoungSaeng let out a nervous breath.  “It’s just...na have a special gift na wanted to surprise her with and-and Christmas day is-is special...and-and she's special.  Guerom, shouldn't a special person receive a special gift on a special day?"  YoungSaeng wasn't known for blabbering and he knocked his head with his fist a few times before continuing.  “Sar...I mean I love and respect her, na wouldn’t do anything to hurt her.  Jaebal!”

Mr. Rodriguez smiled into the phone, YoungSaeng’s voice hadn’t been very confident at the beginning of the conversation, now it sounded like he would cry if he wasn't granted his wish.  “YoungSaeng, I can’t say yes until I consult my wife, I’ll be in touch.  I know it’s past midnight over there, get your rest and I will call you in the next few days.”

Mr. Rodriguez chuckled at the memory.  "Minae, are you showing your daughter how to act up in front of her husband?  if she acts like that with YoungSaeng, he'll send her back.”  At her Father’s comment, Mina tried to stifle a laugh but couldn’t help it.  If her parents only knew how many times her smart- self, came out with her boyfriend and how many time she'd had to sock him.

 - "Don't worry, Mina is a good girl and knows what a good thing a wife is for a husband.  Besides, a little arguing is healthy for a marriage, and then you get to kiss and make up, right ladies?"  Mina's Grandmother laughed, while YiHyun and Ilana blushed a bit.  At least KyuJong and Jihoo were out entertaining the flower girl and not in earshot of this pre-wedding advice.

 - "Guerae Eommoni!”  HyungJun agreed.  “Mina’s lipstick is perfect, her Okaasan has applied it perfectly and she’s ready to be a bride."  Mina rolled her eyes at her groom’s often childish friend.  "Let's get a picture of the three generations of women," he ignored Mina’s annoyed stare and arranged Grandmother, Mother, and daughter to his liking.  "Perfect!”  He clicked away a few times.  “Now Otousan, Ojiisan, and O’Tou (Father, Grandfather, Younger Brother).”  Mr. Rodriguez couldn’t resist a kiss on the top of his daughter’s head.  He was just as happy as his wife, to be giving his daughter to a good man.  A man of faith, family, provision, and one who cherished their little girl almost as much as they did.

 - “Papi!”  Mina smiled happily at her dad.

 - “That’s great...how about O’Tou?  A hug or kiss for Neesan?”

 - “I’m good…,” he .

 - “Yah!” she made a fist at her brother.

 - “Hey, does my brother-in-law know you can hit like a guy?”

Mina stopped, stood up straight, and smiled sweetly.  “As a matter of fact, he does.”

 - “Mina!!!”  Her family, minus brother and father were a bit horrified at this admission.  “

 - "Ara!  Mina beat Saengie until he agreed to date her,” HyungJun blurted out.

 - “Yah!!”  Mina, YiHyun, and Emily all shouted at him.

 - “How can Dasom Appa, say such a thing so recklessly," his wife scolded.

 - "Wae...Na was joking...aish," he pouted.

 - "Deh...and the snake was just joking when she broke into your Sunbae's apartment and beat him up. She was just joking when she made him continue their relationship until the end of the year?"

 - "Oppa...Unnie...this is a happy day, let's not dwell on the negative."  Ilana still didn't know everything about what happened to HyunJoong, but she didn't need to know to pray for him.  "Praise God that the truth was revealed and he's getting back to what he loves; making music."

 - "Deh...," Mina said.  "Do I need to tell him you two are arguing because of him?"

 - "Andwae!"  The couple shouted.  HyunJoong would be upset to hear his friends were arguing because of him.  "Arraso," HyungJun got his head back into the shoot.  "Mina and Ilana, let's head outside for pictures of you two and everyone can follow in a few minutes.  You don't want to be late for the rehearsal."  Though Emily was closer to Mina, than Ilana was, now.  Mina felt it only right to have Ilana as her matron of honor.  Not because her husband, to be, had a crush on her at one time, but had she not gone to Ilana's wedding, she wouldn't have fallen for that angelic voice.  Had she not been offered the position in Seoul, she might not have ever met him again.  Had he not been Ilana’s friend first, she wouldn’t have been included in his circle of friends.  Ilana was the key to their relationship and as YoungSaeng was a special person in Ilana’s life, Ilana was a special person in both their lives. and now they were even HaEun’s godparents.  This made all their lives interconnected.

Once outside, they met up with Jihoo, KyuJong, and HaEun.  At two years old, she carried herself, in her white dress, very carefully.  She didn't want to be carried and yet she didn't want to get dirty.  "Umma!"  She waved cheerfully. "Mira que muñeca tan preciosa (Look at this precious doll)!"  Ilana bent to give her a kiss.  "Yah...which of your imo-deul put lip gloss on you."

 - "Imo Suzy!  Yippeo!"  Suzy had passed by with KangMin, waiting for Mina and the others to come down and giving the babysitter a break, leaving her only with Dasom and Kike’s twins.

Ilana looked up at Jihoo, who shrugged, smiling.  He couldn't tell his princess 'no'.  "Arraso, only for today.  Gongju wants to look pretty for Ajussi's camera, deh?"

 - "HaEun-ah is always Yippeun," HyungJun told HaEun.  "We'll have to catch up with your partner, KangMin, so we can get the flower girl and ring bearer together.  If he bothers nae gongju, you have my permission to kick him."

 - "Oppa!"  Ilana shouted.

 - "Dasom Appa!"  His wife also scolded.

HyungJun just laughed at them and bent down to receive a hug from his favorite model, next to Dasom, of course.  "Arraso nae gongju, stand between Umma and Nina; careful not to stand on Nina's dress, deh?"

 - "Deh, ajussi!"  HaEun did exactly what she was told.  She was always the perfect subject; her shy smiles were adorable, and her laughs lit up her face, just like her Mother's.  And since she was comfortable with Ajussi Jun, she never cried.

KyuJong looked on with a wistful smile.  HaEun was a cutie, but he was picturing his own son or daughter and couldn’t wait.  He walked over to his wife and wrapped an arm around her.  “Gwenchana?”

 - “Mmm...Sweetie, you know I won’t break.”

 - “Shh...guys use pregnancy as an excuse to fuss over their wives and still look cool.”

Emily smiled and cupped his face tenderly, “in that case, fuss away,” she placed a soft kiss on his lips.

KyuJong took another look at the cute HaEun, paying careful attention not to step on her dress or that of Mina’s.  “We should go check on singlang (groom).”

 - “Yes, we gotta make sure he hasn’t gotten cold feet.”

 - “Anieyo, at worst, he’ll kidnap Mina, skip the ceremony and head straight to the honeymoon.”

 - “Maja!”  Emily responded.

Photoshoot done, they were just waiting for Mina’s parents and Grandparents, to walk over to the Church.  “What are you two talking about over there?”  Mina questioned, having heard the word ‘Singlang’ and her name.  Knowing any of their friends, except for maybe Jihoo and Ilana (a very small 'maybe'), it would be a ribald comment.

 - “Amugeotdo,” KyuJong smiled.  “We’re going to check on Singlang and make sure he’s not getting cold feet.”

 - “Make sure he’s not gnawing on his bottom lip.  Tell him I won’t kiss him if his lips are all cut and bleeding.”

 - “Right, I’ll make sure to tell him you plan on snogging him well, later on, so his lips need to be as smooth as a baby’s…”

 - “Emily!!”  Mina scolded her friend’s language.

Emily didn’t talk to any of her Korean friends in her British slang that was commonplace back home.  She only used it to tease Mina and Ilana, enjoying making them blush.  Emily still didn’t understand why British slang sounded bawdy to foreigners and KyuJong couldn’t tell her either.

In his suite, YoungSaeng was pacing, biting his lips, or checking his hair in the mirror.  “Aigoo...is it time yet?  Eomma, woke me up too early.”

 - "Aigoo, since when is mid-day too early.  Your coordi's were here waiting for you already."  The coordi's in question had already gone to get themselves ready.

 - "Besides, adul didn't come in until near dawn.  Eomma was able to get hangover stew nearby," his Father half smiled.

 - "Na didn't drink that much."

JungMin, HyunJoong, and Kike tried to stifle a laugh.  "Guerae Eommoni, he didn't drink too much," HyunJoong said with a perfect poker face.  HyunJoong rented an apartment and finding out that Kike had also come, they just decided to split it.  They were the only two bachelors.  The twins were no bother; they were fun and were included in their bachelor party up to a point.  Kike and HyunJoong sent KyuJong and Maknae to the store for sake, vodka, and beer, while JungMin went out for ramen and other snacks.  It was just like the old days on the ship, except this time, the blithering idiot was the usually quiet drunk.  Once there was no guarantee they could pull themselves, much less the kids, out of a fire, they called Jihoo and Ilana to take the boys.

Seeing the litter of alcohol bottles, already in the living room, Ilana turned to her husband.  “Hwagsiliya (Are you sure), you don’t want to stay and join them?”  She teased, knowing he wouldn’t feel comfortable joining the group.

 - “Anieyo gwenchanayo, at least one doctor needs to be sober in case of alcohol poisoning.”

 - “Gwenchanayo, Uissanim, na will watch over them,” KyuJong said with just a bit of a slur.  Everyone knew he was the least alcohol tolerant of all of them.  It was only nine, but they had wanted to start early making sure the groom got to bed at a decent time and wasn’t hungover in the morning.

 - “Deh, but who will take care of you?”

Before Jihoo and Ilana left with the kids, an already buzzed YoungSaeng went up to Ilana and hugged her; hugged her tightly like he’d done in the past.  Ilana looked to Jihoo in shock but otherwise stood still as did everyone else.  “Gomawo, nae Cinderella, for sending Oppa his angel.  She’s everything a namja could desire,” Ilana bit her lip, stifling a laugh.  YoungSaeng wasn’t finished with his speech.  “Mianhae...na couldn’t be a good Oppa to you, hajiman I’ll be a good Orabeoni to Mina, chincha.”

- “Oppa better be good to her or I’ll never speak to you again,” Ilana responded.  The rest of the boys could no longer contain their laughter, even Jihoo was grinning widely.

 - “Deh...deh!  Yaksokhaeyo (I promise).  She’s everything to me, she’s sweet and y, she can be serious and playful, and she’s daeback.”

 - “Deh…Na didn’t expect Oppa to fall for anyone less than spectacular,” she his back as if he were HaNeul.  “Oppa...can you let go...you stink like beer.”

YoungSaeng wrinkled his nose and flashed his Otter’s smile.  “Deh...maja.”  He turned to Jihoo and inclined his head, nearly toppling over, but Jihoo placed a steadying hand on his shoulder.  “Kansamnida Uissa.  Ara, na wasn’t a good Oppa to your anae and na made her sad again. Yaksokhaeyo to be a better Oppa and chingu to nae Cinderella and jeogum gongju (little princess).  Na angel has made me a better namja.”

 - “Mmm, je suggest you get sober before morning or all Mina’s hard work will be for nothing,” Jihoo told him.

 - “Deh, Uissa,” HyunJoong stood and wrapped an arm around his friend's shoulder.  “Anja, we’ve got more gaming and drinking time.”

For the next few hours, they continued to drink and eat and play video games.  YoungSaeng couldn't stop naming all of Mina’s virtues.

 - “...Nae Sinbu is nomu yippeun.”

 - “...Na Sinbu has the softest skin and her lips taste like watermelon.”

 - “...Nae Mina yang picked me before I picked her.  She’s so special.”

 - …”Guys, she makes me crazy with her kisses, how am I supposed to wait until after the reception.  Just by teasing her bare stomach, I need to take a cold shower.  If she’s wearing shorts I need a cold shower.  Aigoo, even when she’s in her winter coat, I need a cold shower.”

 - “Yah!”  JungMin yelled.  They’d had enough of YoungSaeng’s mumbling and if someone didn’t stop him, he would soon be spilling all of his and Mina’s love secrets.  “Mina is like my boss and na don’t need to know what goes on between you two, deh?  Who’s going to help me get him in the shower?”  KyuJong had already dozed off on the couch, and HyungJun wasn’t that awake, either.

 - “Na,” HyunJoong, who could drink like a fish, said.  “I hope Eommoni has hangover soup waiting for him in the morning.”

 - "Or at least some aspirin," Kike, also could tolerate his alcohol well.  "Speaking of, give him some now, or else he'll have a raging headache in the morning.  Mina will kill us...or him."

HyunJoong looked at the passed out KyuJong and HyungJun.  "Na think all the wives will be upset at us."

 - "They sleep with these guys every day, one night sleeping on the couch won’t hurt," Kike joked.

 - "Andwae," JungMin disagreed.  "As soon as we throw our groom in the shower, I'm going to sleep in nae warm bed with nae warm and yippeo anae."  JungMin had a dreamy look in his eyes and a wide smile on his face."

 - "Aigoo...," HyunJoong shook his head.

 - "Perhaps we should warn Suzy her husband might have ulterior motives for going home.  Baby number two just might be conceived tonight."

 Kike shuttered, "let's just get this Otter back into the water."  YoungSaeng had finally stopped talking and was now more asleep than awake.

JungMin the shower and made sure nothing would be in the way of HyunJoong and Kike as they dragged their friend.  YoungSaeng’s angry shout as the cold water drenched him, clothes and all, was loud enough to be heard by some neighbors.

KyuJong and Emily had just walked into YoungSaeng’s suite.  “Ah, our Otter Prince Singlang is still alive?”  KyuJong smirked.

 - “Yah…we were just telling Eommonim that he didn’t drink that much last night,” JungMin whispered loudly.

 - “Na heard that JungMin-ssi,” YoungSaeng’s Mother gave him a scolding stare and then sighed.  “Gwenchana...the fact that he came back with different clothes from which he wore earlier, told me he’d had to clean up.”

 - “At least he won’t embarrass our family today.  His coordinators pieced him back together well.”  His Father looked him over.  “From the dark circles that were there this morning and the wrinkles and the hair that stood out in every direction, the transformation is incredible.”

 - “Abeoji!  Na don’t have wrinkles!”  YoungSaeng said indignantly, while his friends laughed along with his Father.

 - “Saeng Oppa looks just like a Prince,” Emily said.  "He’ll make Mina swoon when she sees him.”  At the mention of his bride to be, YoungSaeng began to tuck his lips.  “Yah Singlang...Sinbu says not be biting your lips or she won’t give you a kiss.”

 - “Aigoo, anae, the namja have heard enough of YoungSaeng and Mina kissing last night,” KyuJong couldn’t help teasing his friend.

 - “Goodness!  How much did he drink?”

 - “Mworago?!!  Na didn’t drink that much!  The namja are making things up.”

 - “Eommoni...do we look like we’d tell you tales of our chingu?”  HyunJoong, being the oldest, as always took responsibility for his friends.

 - “Mollahyo,” she laughed.

The wedding rehearsal was more hilarity than rehearsing.  Their minister was very kind in reminding them that they only had two hours total for their rehearsal and ceremony.  Mina had been true to her word and YoungSaeng could not see her dress before the ceremony.  That was part of the hilarity that led HyunJoong to fall on the floor, laughing.

Mina still hadn't a clue on how to go through the rehearsal without YoungSaeng seeing her dress.  It would take too long to get her out of it and then back in.  Emily, always resourceful had an idea.

 - "I have an idea; let's stop at the banquet hall before we go to the rehearsal.  We need safety pins.”

 - “Haha packed some, just in case.  In fact, she brought an entire sewing kit.”

Thankfully, by the late afternoon and a near eighty-degree day, it was starting to cool.  A bride never likes to sweat on her wedding day; thankfully, the resort was full of streams and trees that sheltered guests from the worst of the heat.

When HyunJoong spotted Mina coming at them covered in tablecloths, he doubled over with laughter.  “YoungSaeng-ah!  Na thought you were doing well for yourself.  You couldn’t afford to rent her a dress?”

YoungSaeng grinned at his silly bride.  “Yah...keep quiet.  She wouldn’t let me pay for her wedding clothes.”  He walked up to her and clasped her hands.  “Jagiya...chincha?  It’s our rehearsal and Sinbu won’t let her singlang see her wedding dress?”

 - “Maja!”  She lifted her chin to him.

 - “Jagiya...knows how much nae want to kiss that defiant look off her face."  He inched closer but was stopped by her outstretched arms.

 - "Behave yourself."

 - "We're supposed to be practicing."

 - "Singlang has had enough practice in the kiss department."

 - "Neaga out of practice, someone's family has been with her all week."

 - "It's like riding a bike, you don't forget.  Besides, everyone is watching."

YoungSaeng looked around to see his friends all grinning at him.  "Wae?!"  He glared at them.

 - "Our Saengie looks yippeun," KyuJong teased.

HyunJoong put on his 'leader' face and called everyone's attention.  "Arraseo, Singlang, eeliwah, the minister is going to tell us what to do.”  During the entire rehearsal of fifteen minutes, someone was giggling.  Mina couldn't keep her eyes off YoungSaeng and wasn't listening. resulting in the priest having to repeat himself.  HyunJoong, as best man, couldn't help teasing.  "Mina-ssi is trying to transform her Otter back into a prince.  That's why she keeps staring at him."

Ilana couldn't help it and burst out laughing.  It was true, she'd seen Mina observing every detail of her groom.  "Anieyo, HyunJoong-ssi, she's waiting for the kiss to turn him into the prince."

This time Mina couldn't hold it and laughed behind her hand.  "Is that how it works?  Aigoo...I've kissed him so many times and he's still an Otter."

Even the priest couldn't resist jumping in.  "That's because you haven't received your blessing yet."  At that everyone was laughing.  HaEun and KangMin just looked on confused as to why everyone was laughing.  "Appa, wae is Nino an Otter?"  HaEun asked.

 - "It's just a nickname, jagi, just like HaEun is gongju.  Umma and Nina say he looks like an Otter."

HaEun hurriedly stepped out of the pew and seeing that she was headed to her Mother, Jihoo didn't chase after her.  "Umma, Nino looks like an Otter?  Chinchayo?"

Ilana could see the guys already cracking up.  She crouched down to her daughter.  "Deh, chiquita (little girl/little one), he's an Otter prince.  How cool is that?"

 - "Wau!  Nino daeback!"  HaEun giggled.

 - "Maja, geongju!"  YoungSaeng called out to the little princess.  Rehearsal was pretty much over before it had even begun.  YoungSaeng picked her up and gave her cheek a kiss.  “Ah...na gongju is yippeun.”

HaEun sniffed at his jacket.  “Nino yummy.”

 - “Yah...does Nina smell yummy too?”  YoungSaeng leaned her toward Mina.  “Mmm...Nina pretty.”  HaEun was still very shy but enjoyed being treated like the favorite princess by her ajussi-deul.

 - “Anda coqueta (go on, flirt),” Ilana took her daughter from YoungSaeng and set her on the ground; the priest was trying to get their attention.

 - “After the vows, you’ve chosen the coin ceremony; your sponsors will give you the coins and your soloist will go up at that time.  After that I’ll pronounce you man and wife and I trust you won’t be needing practice for the first kiss,” the minister teased.

 - “Well, perhaps just a little,” YoungSaeng said.

 - “Orabeoni!!”  Mina pinched him through the tux jacket, making everyone laugh.  Good natured teasing about who would “wear the pants” in their marriage, would follow later.  Out of his parent’s earshot, of course.

 - “Before you exit, you’ll pause and let me take pictures of you two and your wedding party,” Kyoto Shim, Mina’s mentor, friend, and longtime modeling employer explained.

YoungSaeng did give his bride a chaste kiss on the cheek before their practice exit, where more pictures would be taken.  Their ceremony would be intimate, the church only fit forty people.  More friends would be joining them for the dinner reception and then the after party.

Outside, after they rehearsed the recessional, Ilana crouched down to give her daughter a hug.  “Beba did great!  Make sure you remember to take KangMinnie’s arm when you follow Nino and Nina, deh?  You two have an important job because Ajussi HyunJoong and Umma won’t know where to go if we don’t follow you, deh?”

Next to Ilana, HyunJoong was giving KangMin a hi-5.  “That was just practice; so, we need to do it one more time.  If Kangminnie wants to do everything well, he should practice, deh?  Na... can’t sing and dance for thousands of fans without lots of practice.  I’d trip on na two feet...oh...na would be so embarrassed!”  HyunJoong stood and performed a comical dance move, pretending like he tripped and lost his balance.  KangMin laughed.  “See, KangMin, that’s wae we practice.”

 - “Adul is daeback,” JungMin came up to scoop his son in his arms.

 - “Appa!!”  The eighteen-month old shrieked as JungMin swung him onto his shoulders.  “Umma is practicing with Ajussi Jihoo, but she will be out in five minutes, so you’re stuck with me, kid.”  KangMin loved playing rough with his dad and also being cuddled by Umma and his Imo-deul.  All the kids knew well how to charm the adults around them.

Ilana was being dragged by her daughter, who wanted to hear the click-click of her new white shoes on the stone floor beneath them.  She spotted HyunJoong just around the bend of the stone wall, walking with his hands behind his back, serenely taking in the surrounding green and gray scenery.  Since the princess was insisting on skipping, they would quickly overtake him.  “Umma wants to say hi to ajussi for a minute, deh?  Just don’t run off.”

 - “Deh, Umma,” HaEun let go of her Mom’s hand and set about fitting her tiny foot in each stone.

 - “HyunJoong-ssi!”  Ilana called out to him, with a smile.  She hadn’t even had a chance to greet him.  They’d all just arrived from Seoul, last night.

 - “Oh!  Annyeong hasseyo,” he inclined his head to her and crouched to HaEun.  “Annyeong hasseyo, Agassi.”

HaEun quickly ran behind Ilana.  “Yah...at least say, annyeong hasseyo before you hide?  Is that how a princess acts?”

 - “Aigoo, gwenchana,” HyunJoong stood.  “She takes after Umma,” he laughed.

 - “Deh...and a lot like appa too,” she looked to the church, expecting to see her husband searching for her, but he wasn’t. They only had twenty minutes before the ceremony began.  The rehearsal took a little longer than anticipated.  “Yippeun as always,” she complimented his tux.  She swore he’d grown taller in the military.  “Always a groomsman, never a groom.  Gwenchana, HyunJoong Umma and na are praying for the right yeoja to come along.”

HyunJoong smiled nervously and caught HaEun staring at him.  She would warm up to him soon.  No one really knew the mystery surrounding his supposed son.  Did he exist?  Was he really his child?  No one asked, not even his parents.  “Deh...hokshina na will remain married to nae music and be the favorite samchon to all the kids.”

 - “Deh...now HyunJoong-ssi sounds suspiciously like me, several years ago,” Ilana teased.  Their friendship was not close, he was the friend of her friends, but she held him in high esteem and hoped that by knowing that, it would be a comfort to him.  He offered her comfort when she was nothing but a stranger to him and she would always be grateful.  “Who knows what Yesu has in store for you?  HyunJoong-ssi is a great mentor for the young ones.  Use your experience for God’s Glory; stomp on the enemy in that way.”

HaEun began to stomp and HyunJoong thankfully could shift his attention to the little girl, hiding his self-consciousness at her Mother’s encouraging words.  “Like that, Agassi?”  He began stomping around with HaEun.

 - “Aigoo, Beba, don’t scuff your shoes.  That goes for Samchon too.”  HaEun began to giggle at her Mother’s warning.

HyunJoong stopped but continued smiling.  “Agassi, we better stop and not scuff our shoes."  HaEun didn’t stop but turned her wide smile to him.  She was getting close to making friends.  “Agassi…”  he took a step toward her with his own wide grin, making her scream and start to run.

 - “HaEun-ah!  You’re going to trip!”  Ilana began to run but HyunJoong ran faster.  He swooped her up, like a bird of prey, her shrieks of laughter bounced off the stones, echoing around them.  Ilana placed her hands on her head and alternately laughed and cringed at the noise her daughter was making. The man had a gift with kids, it would be a shame for him not to have his own but maybe he could be happy just being an uncle.  Ilana followed them, slowly, thanking God for HyunJoong’s smile.  His fan meets in Korea and Japan had been a complete and overwhelming success, he had released a new album and was back at number one (not that he’d ever really left).  “Kansamnida, Yesu.  Ara Yesu has great plans for him.”  Of that, Ilana had no doubt, his experience was already doing good as the blackmail and defamation laws in South Korea were getting tougher and the perpetrators were being dealt with severely.

Did Mina and Saengie get all of you drunk yet? Lol

And I belived Yes does have great plans of our HJ.  He's still standing tall, smiling, and can do what he loves most.  He's seen new stages and gotten to meet more of his Henecia.  What that woman meant for ill, God meant for good.  He's had oppurtunities he never had before, all thanks to her.  buahahaha.

Please read and comment!!  Two more chapters, left!