Jaejoong had re-arranged his and Abigail's schedules to suit his purpose for the day. It had been a few weeks that he had made sure to tell Abigaíl she could not make any plans for the evening or actually the afternoon.

- "Abi-yah, you don't have plans for the fifth do you?"

- "Cinco de Mayo?"

- "Mwo?" Abigaíl laughed at the confused face Jaejoong made.

- "The restaurant is usually busy that day, so I try to get home as soon as I can in case my parents need help. Why?"

- "Just promise not to make other plans."

- "Dr. Jaejoong, what are you scheming?"

- "Amogotdoyo! Do this for me, juseyo?"

Jaejoong looked at his watch:  3:15 PM. He said goodbye to the office staff and Jihoo who had just come out of one of the examination rooms. "Nae ilbayo (see you tomorrow)." They all watched him leave like a kid on his way to an amusement park.

 - “Does anyone know what that's all about?" Jihoo asked.

 - "Mollahyo, Uissanim," HyoJoo answered. "He's had the afternoon marked off for weeks and he's been giddy all day, too."

Jihoo shrugged his shoulders and went in to see his next patient.

Jaejoong practically ran to the critical care floor in excitement. "Annyeong hasseyo, jagiya." He was practically hopping from foot to foot as he stopped next to Abigaíl.

 - "Aren't you supposed to be at the office?" Abigaíl asked.

 - "Abi-yah brought Isabelle?" Jaejoong was referring to Isabel's American Girl doll.

 - "Yes, I don't know why you insisted I bring it." Everyone had pretty much stopped working to listen to the conversation.

 - "You'll see when we get into the car, ready?"

 - "Dr. Jaejoong, what are you talking about?"

 - "You have the afternoon off, we have to pick up little jagiya."

 - "What?!"

 - "Kaja, after we pick up little jagiya, we need to get to the American Girl store by four," he said as he rummaged through her drawer for her purse and then pulled her out of her seat.

Abigaíl looked at Ilana for help. "I didn't know anything about this, chica. It's your turn to get surprised. Have fun!"

 - "Gracias amiga," Abigaíl said sarcastically as she was dragged off by Dr. Jaejoong.

In the SUV (Jaejoong's new 2015 Dodge Journey had just arrived a few days prior), Dr. Jaejoong handed Abigaíl a package. "Put this on Isabelle."

 - "Dr. Jaejoong, can you please tell me what you are up to?" Abigaíl was trying not blow up in anger, seeing that he was extremely excited over something.

 - "It's Children's Day today."

 - "It is?" Abigaíl had never actually heard of such a day. She began to dress the doll.

 - "Well, at least back home it is. It's a National Holiday, kids get presents and money from their parents."

Abigaíl wondered if he realized Isabel was her child, not his. "Did you forget I’m the parent of Isabel, not you?"

 - "Anieyo, that's why we're all going out for tea."

 - "You couldn't have just...I don't know...called her later? Why does everything have to be a huge production with you?"

 - "It's not! I told you, I want to do things for you guys. Abigaíl doesn't let me, so I have to trick you into it." He was smiling widely at her, while she shook her head in exasperation.

Isabel was surprised but definitely not unhappy about her Mother arriving early to pick her up. "Mama, it's early?" Still in Kindergarten, she had no concept of time but she had just had her snack and no one else had gone home yet, so it must be early.

 - "Someone has a surprise for you."

 - "Chincha?" Isabel giggled; her Mom always looked at her funny when she spoke Dr. Prince's language. She wondered if the surprise was from Dr. Prince. He liked to surprise Mama and her. She happily skipped alongside her Mom until they were out of the schoolyard and there in front of the school was her beloved Dr. Prince. "Dr. Prince!!" Shrieking she ran up to him.

 - "Happy Children's Day!" Jaejoong reached for the running child and swung her into his arms.

Isabel wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed his smooth cheek. She laid her head against his chest, he smelled yummy. Papá Mío always smelled yummy like food, but Dr. Prince smelled sweet, like candy. "What is Children's Day?"

 - "In my country, it's a national holiday, like Christmas, now get in the car."

Isabel climbed into her special seat. She loved this car because she didn't need a 'baby' seat. "Dr. Prince? Is this for me?" There was an American Girl box on her seat.

 - "Deh, sit down and let Umma fasten your seatbelt. Then you can open it."

 - "Chincha! Mama, hurry!"

 - "Quédate quieta (stay still)." Once her child was fastened, Abigaíl climbed in the front seat and Jaejoong closed both doors before heading to the driver's side. Isabel was busy ripping into her gift and shrieked in delight at the pink ballerina outfit, complete with shoes and butterfly wings. "Kansamnida, Dr. Prince!! Umma do you see it?"

 - "Yes baby, I see it." Abigaíl shook her head at 'Dr. Prince'. "You shouldn't spoil her like that; she'll get used to it and expect you to always bring her gifts."

 - "Anieyo Umma, I won't be greedy, I promise."

 - "See," Jaejoong grinned. "Nae jagiya is a good girl."

Jaejoong stopped in front of the American Girl store and you bet Isabel was ecstatic. "American Girl! Yay!!" She was already removing her seatbelt. "Dr. Prince, I didn't bring Isabelle. Oh no!" Isabel was suddenly distraught.

 - "Gwenchana, who takes care of his jagiya? Look who followed Umma to work today." Abigaíl took Isabelle out of the bag and Isabel jumped for joy at the new outfit she wore. "When I get out of the car, go ahead and put your ballerina outfit on too, arraso."

 - "Arraso!"

 - "Dr. Jaejoong, I'm paying for mine and Isabel's meal," Abigaíl warned before getting out and taking care of Isabel.

 - "Rock, Paper, Scissors."

Abigaíl sighed and rolled her eyes.

Isabel didn't want to be carried into the store. She walked proudly with Isabelle in her arms and in their new outfits. The sales clerks did their job of complimenting Isabel and Isabelle on their coordinating outfits. Once seated, Jaejoong and Isabel conferred over the menu along with Isabelle. Isabelle was seated in a place of honor between Isabel and Dr. Prince. "It looks like we get a little bit of everything, what looks good to you, Isabelle?" Pausing for Isabelle's answer. "The pig in a blanket? Mmm, I think the Crostini looks good. Balsamic vinegar is good, it's a little sweet. That sounds yucky to you? It's a grown-up thing. When you get bigger, you'll like more things." Isabel was giggling non-stop at her Dr. Prince.

Even Abigaíl couldn't help but smile at the scene. Isabel's biological Father ran away before even meeting her, not wanting the responsibility of a child. Dr. Jaejoong, granted, much older, but an experienced bachelor with all that entailed was jumping right into Isabel's life with both feet. She was amazed, simply put.

 - "Umma do you know what you will be drinking? We're ready."

 - "I think I'll have hot tea."

 - "Nado and apple juice for the girls." Dr. Jaejoong placed their order. "Girls, look at me and I'll take your picture."

One of the restaurant staff came up to them, "I'll take it for you."

 - "Thank you," Jaejoong handed the lady his phone.

 - "Can you take one with my phone too?" Abigaíl asked.

 - "Say cheese, girls." Once several pictures of Isabel and Isabelle were taken, the staff member asked if they wanted a picture of all of them together.

 - "That won't be necessary."

 - "Yes, please." The staff member looked momentarily confused. "Don't worry about my fiancée," Dr. Jaejoong said. Isabel giggled.

 - "Dr. Jaejoong!"

 - "As I was saying, don't worry about my fiancée, she's camera shy. I'll just get up and stand next to her." Jaejoong stood squeezing Abigail’s shoulder. "Smile Umma, you don't want to ruin the picture. One more please, with my phone?" The staff member began to count and just before three, Jaejoong bent and kissed Abigaíl on the cheek. The staff member captured the shot perfectly.

 - "Congratulations, you make a perfect family," she said, returning the phones.

 - "Thank you."

Isabel clapped happily.

 - "Isabel, Dr. Jaejoong is just teasing, aren't you?"

 - "Anieyo, Isabel and I have already discussed the marriage contract. Isn't that right?"

 - "Deh, Umma, Isabelle and I voted. We want Dr. Prince as Appa."

 - "Isabel, I don't want to put you in time out on your special day but both of you are fibbing right now."

 - "Anieyo, you're just not my fiancée yet but you will be." Abigail closed her eyes and prayed for patience.

The rest of the hour passed happily for Isabel and Dr. Jaejoong.  It was Abigaíl who couldn't relax. She had this feeling, the Lord was preparing her for something big and it was making her nervous. Whatever it was had something to do with Dr. Jaejoong.

May 6, 2014

Abigaíl dragged Ilana out of the hospital grounds for lunch. She was trying to avoid Dr. Jaejoong. He had not only dropped Isabel and her off the previous evening but stayed to help in the restaurant.

 - "My parent's didn't want to be rude. They couldn't really kick him out in front of all the diners, it's not like he was being disruptive. He made my Mom sit down, while he took over the front and began showing people to their tables. His Spanish is terrible. Thankfully, it was more non-Spanish-speaking customers wanting a real Mexican experience, than our usual customers."

 - "That's really sweet. I used to hate when the gang did nice things for me but I'm okay with it now. I like to do nice things for them too and it's their way of showing they care. A good friend told me 'a gift is not a gift if you need to pay it back'. There are no ulterior motives between friends." Ilana smiled remembering Jihoo's words.

 - "Chica, you don't understand, your friends are normal. Dr. Jaejoong has to go and do everything on a humongous scale.  Couldn't he just buy Isabel tea at American Girl? Did he have to buy her and her doll new dresses too?"

 - "Did he have to get you a $100 plus ring from Tiffany's and take you to fancy restaurant?" Ilana was enjoying this conversation.

 - "Exactly!"

 - "Chica, Dr. Jaejoong is considerably well off. What good is having money, if you can't spend it on the people you care about?" This she spoke from experience.

 - "I guess."

 - "Okay, girl, we need to get going," Ilana looked at her watch. "We'll be racing up the stairs if we don't leave now."

 - "I don't want you to collapse on me. Dr. Jihoo will kill me if his special admin collapses due to lack of oxygen."

 - "Whatever!" Ilana rolled her eyes. "I'm not the special one; we've just become good friends. But my friend here is very special to her Dr. Prince."

Abigaíl gave her a 'don't start' look and then her phone rang. "It's Dr. Jaejoong's Mother, I have to take this."

 - "I'll see you upstairs," Ilana flashed Abigail a teasing smile, which she ignored as she answered the phone.

 - "Eommoni...," Ilana heard before she headed for the stairs.

Ilana took the stairs as quickly as possible, arriving breathless on her floor. Jihoo was coming from the seventh floor and the two half-crashed somewhere around the fourth floor. "Jihoo-yah," he grabbed hold of her arms before she could lose her balance.

 - "Gwenchana?" He asked.

 - "Deh...you're...checking...on...your patient?"

 - "Deh, now take a deep breath and exhale." They had been walking, taking stairs and doing some strength training but Ilana still hadn't quite gotten her stamina back.

 - "I know...what to do. Don't keep your patient waiting. I'm going to be late." Ilana took the step above Jihoo's and messed his hair before continuing to the sixth floor. "Na jung e bwaeyo (See you later)," Ilana shouted down from above.

 - "Arraso," he shouted back, smiling. He hadn't taken more than a few steps when he ran into Uee and Shancai.

 - "Annyeong hasseyo, Uissa," Uee said.

 - "Hello, Dr. Jihoo, you seem in a good mood," Shancai teased.  Jihoo didn't realize he was still smiling.

 - "Oh, Deh, my patients are doing well. You must be on your way to lunch. Enjoy." Jihoo bowed and kept going.

 - "What a sweet smile," Shancai commented. "I'm so happy for him and Ilana both. I hope they don't continue to deny their feelings when it's so obvious they have found joy in each other’s company."

 - "So true! You should see Ilana when he's on the floor. Her face lights up when they are talking and laughing."

 - "Wasn't it not long ago, neither one ever smiled? Ilana wouldn't even look at you in the eyes!"

 - "Love is in the air, it must be spring," Uee laughed. "Maybe soon we'll have two weddings to go to. Jihoo and Ilana and Jaejoong and Abigaíl."

 - "Jaejoong and Abigaíl will be first. What about Ilwoo and you? When will he pop the question?"

 - "Mollah, we're still busy with our careers."

 - "Are you excited about the new Club Eden?"

 - "Omo! I can't believe Song WooBin-ssi not only heard our CD but also saw us perform without us even knowing. Now, we'll be the opening act for his club grand opening." WooBin had never mentioned Ilana in his negotiations with Uee's group and Ilana had never mentioned WooBin to Uee. Both thought it best to keep things between themselves. The two girls had arrived at the cafeteria and continued gossiping while they picked up food.

Jaejoong and Abigaíl had picked up Isabel and were now heading to his house for dinner. It was a special day. Every day was special when he had his two favorite girls by his side but it was also parent's day. Jaejoong's Mother had specifically invited Abigaíl and Isabel to have dinner with them. She had ordered a special Italian style meal prepared for the evening.

Abigaíl felt worried. Not only was this a family gathering she was being included in but the conversation she'd had with Jaejoong's Mother left her unsettled.

- "We'll be leaving sooner than anticipated and this might be the last chance we'll be able to share a meal with you and Isabel. Please come." Mrs. Oh had said.

- "It's a special day for your family then. Isabel and I will be in the way."

- "No, no, Abigaíl please. My son adores you and so do we. Abigaíl, you must know we are hoping for you to be our daughter in law."

- "Eomonni!"

- "I know you two aren't there yet, but I hope you might consider it someday. You are so good for him. He's changed considerably in these six months we've been here. It's all because of his friendship with you. Abigaíl, you are already part of the family. He needs you. Forgive me if I'm putting pressure on you. I just wanted to tell you, you have our blessings. You've had them from the beginning. We'll talk more on Thursday. Please, we have not let Jaejoong know our departure date if you don't mind keeping this between us."

- "I understand, I won't say anything."

- "Thank you, you're such a sweetheart."

- "We'll see you Thursday."

Abigaíl had been praying for peace all day; although, not for her. There was fear in her heart for Dr. Jaejoong. She didn't know why?  The evening was a happy occasion; Parent's day in Korea was a special day to honor not just one parent but both. She had purchased a nice scarf for Mrs. Oh and she and Isabel had made buñuelos for Mr. Kim who had a sweet tooth. They weren't her parents but they treated her and Isabel as part of their family. It would be lacking in manners if she didn't take them a small gift.

They had pulled up in front of the Kim's townhome. "Abi-yah, you haven't said a word since we picked up Isabel. Is something wrong? You're not nervous are you?" He took her hand cautiously. He hadn't tried to hold it again since Sunday.

 - "No, of course not," she slipped her hand out of his grasp and opened her door. "Let's go, your parents are waiting. Lord, put a hedge around this family," she prayed quietly. She didn't know why she felt so nervous for Jaejoong.

 - "Halmoni! Harabeoji!" Isabel ran into the house as if it was hers.

 - "Isabel! Is that how you enter someone's home?" Abigaíl scolded.

 - "Abi-yah, let her," Jaejoong's Mother said. "We're honored she feels comfortable here." Isabel was already comfortable in Mr. Kim's arms.

 - "Forgive me, I'm underdressed." Abigaíl wore a simple dress, but Dr. Jaejoong's parents were resplendent in traditional attire. Now that she thought of it, Dr. Jaejoong had changed before leaving the hospital into a shirt, tie, and slacks.

 - "It's our tradition only; we don't want you to feel uncomfortable. Besides, you always look lovely. I do have a surprise for our Isabel."

 - "Eomonni, Dr. Jaejoong has spoiled her enough this week." Abigaíl protested half-heartedly only. It would be disrespectful to flat out refuse. She should be honored that she and Isabel were being singled out.

 - "One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend."

Abigaíl heard the silent reminder and had to smile. So she was now a friend of royalty?  She silently laughed at herself.

 - "Thank you, Eomonni, Mr. Kim, your family has been very good to us and you've only known us for such a short time."

 - "You came highly recommended by our son, don't forget," Mr. Kim added. "What's not to like?" Abigaíl was happy that she had made a favorable impression on him but still felt uncomfortable with the praise.

 - "Now, Isabel, come with me." Mrs. Oh took Isabel upstairs to her room.

 - "Jamsimanyo (Excuse Me), Abeoji. Abigaíl, I'll be back in a few minutes." Jaejoong ran to his room to put on his own hanbok before dinner and check on his Mother and Isabel.

 - "Abigaíl," Mr. Kim broke the slightly awkward silence. "Would you care for something to drink before dinner?"

 - "No, thank you, Mr. Kim. But shouldn't I be asking you that? It's Parent's day."

 - "Today, you are our guest. There's no need for you to do anything but be here."

 - "Are you sure? I'm so used to rushing home and making dinner or helping my parents in the restaurant. I feel a little restless."

 - "Enjoy the evening; it's your day too. Did you forget about being a parent yourself?"

 - "I have to admit, I did. On days like this, Isabel and I are so busy celebrating my parents that I forget."

 - "It is difficult being a single parent, is it not?"

 - "At times, but the reward is so sweet. She's my blessing."

 - "That she is, Jaejoong can't ever stop talking about his little jagiya and her Umma." Abigaíl looked down, not sure what to say. "Thank you for all you've done for my son."

 - "Mr. Kim, I don't do anything. I'm just myself, that's all I've ever been. He showers us with gifts and I can't do anything for him."

 - "Oh, but you said it yourself, you are yourself. 'A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised'."  Abigaíl's eyes widened in surprise. "Let him shower you with gifts, you are worth it. The more he got to know you, versus those other women he went out with, there was no comparison. If someone didn't appreciate yours and Isabel's worth, someone else can and will."

Upstairs Jaejoong had changed and knocked on his Mother's door. "Umma, are you two ready?"

 - "Just about, come in."

 - "Wau, jagiya!" Isabel was thankfully dressed and the housekeeper was just tying ribbons to her hair.

 - "Look what Halmoni gave me. Dr. Prince! We match." Jaejoong's Mother had bought Isabel her own hanbok. Her golden skirt was an almost exact match to Jaejoong's golden jeogori (jacket). Isabel's own jeogori was red giving her the appearance of a little princess.

The last hair ornament in place, Isabel couldn't wait to see herself in the mirror. Mrs. Oh led her to the mirror in the walk-in closet. Isabel liked what she saw and spun around happily. "Dr. Prince, do you like it?"

 - "Deh, you look just like a princess. You remember what to do?"

 - "Deh, do you want to see?"

 - "That will be good to practice with your dress, Isabel. Now, show Dr. Prince what you learned." Isabel reverently performed her jakeunjeol (small bow) for her audience.

 - "Na told Umma, she was smart."

 - "Deh, she is. Isabel-ah, let's go surprise your Umma."

Mrs. Kim went back down to rejoin her husband and Abigaíl. "Don't worry, Jaejoong and Isabel will be in shortly." Mrs. Oh answered the question on Abigail’s face when she didn't see her daughter.

Within minutes, Jaejoong came in with Isabel by the hand. Abigaíl was completely shocked at seeing her daughter dressed like a little Korean princess. She looked at Dr. Jaejoong. "Don't blame me," he said. "This was all Umma's idea."

 - "Saranghaeyo Eommoni," Isabel handed her Mother a pink carnation and kissed her cheek.

Jaejoong had already handed them their gifts in the morning before he left for work and had a bouquet of pink carnations and roses sent to his Mother.  Abigaíl hadn't noticed the two cushions on the floor. Jaejoong stood by one and Isabel by the other. "Eomonni, Abeoji, kansamnida and happy Parents day." Jaejoong performed his keunjeol (big bow), head touching the floor and Isabel the jakeunjeol.

Abigaíl was touched by the gesture of her daughter. Isabel was all smiles as she stood back up. "Aww baby, that was beautiful. Thank you."

 - "Nado kansamnida, Eomonni."

Dinner was excellent as usual, there was a festive air as Jaejoong's parents painted every virtue of Jaejoong's from the time he was a baby until the present. Abigaíl couldn't believe the confident and shamelessly arrogant Dr. Jaejoong could blush. She could see how much he loved his parents and basked in their praise of all his accomplishments.

 - "That handsome face never fooled us, Abigaíl. Despite being gifted, we knew he was being extremely naughty."

 - "Dr. Prince isn't naughty!" Isabel defended.

Jaejoong's face fell in shame at his Mother's words and Isabel's defense. He really wanted to be worth the little girl's admiration. He knew despite all his academic achievements, he had disappointed his parents with his philandering ways and had no one to blame but himself. Despite not being physically in his life all 365 days of the year, he always felt his parents love and devotion. He was fortunate, whereas most of his schoolmates were not.

 - "Baby, remember, none of us are perfect, we all make mistakes. That's why we have Jesus in our lives to take our mistakes away." Isabel still couldn't fathom her Dr. Prince being less than perfect.

 - "That's right, Isabel dear," Mrs. Kim spoke. "But do you know his crowning Achievement?"

Abigaíl smiled and looked at him, he was eager to hear what his parents were going to say. "No, Eomonni, what is it?"

 - "Befriending you and Isabel."

Abigaíl blushed, "See jagiya? You're my crowning achievement, my angel sent from Heaven." He reached across Isabel who was seated between them and squeezed Abigail’s hand. "My sincerest gratitude for putting up with me." Abigaíl tried to pull away in embarrassment but Jaejoong wouldn't let go. Isabel then locked her small hands on top of theirs to everyone's amusement.

The meal had concluded and they were now seated in the parlor with fresh strawberries, tea, and the buñuelos, Abigaíl had brought. "The meal was delicious, thank you Eomonni. I need to get that pasta recipe from your housekeeper, even Isabel ate."

 - "I think Isabel will eat anything for her Dr. Prince." Isabel had picked at her food for a few minutes and no amount of silent scolding by her Mother would get her to try it. Jaejoong took a small fork full and brought it to ; after the initial bite and praise at being a good girl from her favorite person, she ate without hesitation.

Abigaíl looked at her watch. "I'm sorry Eomonni; I think Isabel and I need to get going soon. It's getting late and I need to get Isabel ready for bed."

 - "Before you leave, Jaejoong's Abeoji and I have an announcement to make."

 - "Lord, is this why I'm here?  To hear the announcement?" Abigaíl asked silently. She looked at Dr. Jaejoong and he looked nervous.

Jaejoong's parents looked at each other before Mr. Kim spoke. "Things came up that require our attention in Seoul and we will be leaving on Tuesday." It was dead silence for what seemed like an eternity.

Isabel realized no one was speaking. "Where will you go Halmoni?"

 - "We have to go back home for work, sweetheart but we'll be back soon.  We'll try to arrange it so we can be here for our Dr. Prince's famous Halloween Party or just after."

Isabel thought about it and counted on her fingers. Isabel knew Halloween was in October and they had studied the months in school. "But that's so far away!"  Five months was an eternity to an almost six-year-old. "Dr. Prince will be so lonely all by himself." Isabel was very distressed over this news.

Jaejoong had just sat there, not saying a word. Isabel hugged him and he smiled at her. "Gwenchana jagiya, I'm a big boy now." He may be an adult but his life was inexplicably lonely.  And for all his loneliness, he couldn't seem to get any attachments to one particular woman.  Jihoo was probably the most sincere friend he had, the others were just drinking and womanizing buddies.  That is, until Abigaíl came into his life but that was all due to his parents.  Now that they were leaving, will she not want anything to do with him?

 - "Isabel, will you and your Umma keep Dr. Prince company for us?  Make sure he doesn't get into any trouble while we're gone?"

 - "Deh Halmoni, we'll take care of him. Right, Mama?"

Abigaíl half-smiled. She already had Isabel to take care of; she didn't need another child, an overgrown one. Remorse set in immediately after the thought.  Hadn't he already told her how lonely his life was? She remembered how he took the week that his parents arrived; excited at seeing them again. If she sat back and let him go back to womanizing and drinking binges, she would be sinning for looking the other way and not trying to stop him. "Do you want him to go back to the Jaejoong who slept around almost every night? Drank heavily every night?" She asked herself, remembering all the stories. "Don't worry Eomonni; we'll keep him out of trouble. I'll use my Mom's sandal if he so much as steps a toe out of line." She gave Jaejoong her 'Mom' look that usually sent Isabel to hide, knowing she was in trouble. Everyone laughed, except for Abigaíl. She was very serious, if he wanted to act like an idiot, she would treat him as such and he would lose any respect she had gained for him.

 - "Abi-yah, I promise I won't let you down, please stop glaring at me."

May 9, 2014

Jihoo sat in his airplane cabin with the feeling that he'd forgotten something or that something was missing. He sat isolated in the window aisle as was his custom when traveling alone. Had it really been just five weeks ago that he and Ilana had returned from Seoul? He looked over next to him, expecting to see her asleep like on their flight home or struggling not to sleep like en route to Seoul.

- "Don't walk alone in the mornings," he told her before he left. "Walk in the afternoon's when it's daylight."

- "Jihoo-yah, I used to go for a jog every morning, remember?"

- "That's before Na was your personal driver and caretaker."

- "Oh, caretaker we now are? Jihoo-yah has it wrong, Naega your caretaker; WooBin told me to watch over you. How many times would you have skipped a meal if it weren't for me?"

Jihoo grinned. "Deh nae chingu is daeback." He pulled her in for a hug. "Promise you'll take care of yourself." He kissed her cheek before letting go.

- "Deh, overprotective Oppa. Make sure you spend time with the F4. I'll call JaeKyung and find out if you don't." It was Ilana's turn to give instructions. "Give KyuJong Oppa a hug for me if you see him, and JanDi and Harabeoji. Oh! And InHei too."

- "Ilana-yah, if you insist on having me distribute your hugs, I'm kidnapping you and taking you with me."

- "Don't tease," Ilana pouted. "Besides, HyungJun Oppa already started his military service and the newlyweds are busy with family until they move to California and KyuJong...Well, Harabeoji and JanDi keep him busy. The clinics are definitely not the cruise ship but he's enjoying it."

He took her hands in his. "Is there someone else Ilana wants me to see while I’m there?"

Ilana shook her head 'no', sadly. YoungSaeng had stood true to his word. He hadn't contacted her at all nor had contacted anyone else. HyungJun crossed paths with him at Nonsan, whether accidental or not, he didn't say. KyuJong thought perhaps it had been intentional. HyungJun said his Hyeong was doing fine and that's about it. They would never know if the two got into heated words or not. Ilana Joy's fur absentmindedly. It still pained her that she'd unintentionally hurt her friend. The ache had subsided somewhat but at times like this, when he was fresh in her mind, it hurt all over again.

Jihoo brushed her hair behind her ear to get it out of her face and cupped her face gently with his hand. He knew the memory of YoungSaeng's unannounced departure still hurt her even though she tried to hide it. "Yah, I am not leaving if Ilana doesn't smile for me." He was rewarded with her smile. "Joy-ah, take care of your Umma for me." He scratched her ears and she meowed her assent to take care of her Umma.

- "Joy likes her Ajussi; give Rui a carrot for me." Jihoo just laughed at her. "Is Ilana sure she doesn't want to go in my place?"

- "Anieyo, na don't have your talents or patience. Na wouldn't last a day in your shoes."

- "Ilana-yah, I believe, likes to hide her talents." Jihoo reached up and messed her hair.

- "Aish, why do guys like doing that?" Ilana finger-combed her hair back into place.

- "Because it's fun to see you scramble to put it back. It's not like you're going anywhere at this hour." It was nine-thirty and Jihoo would have to leave for the airport soon. He and Ilana had gone to dinner and after retrieving Joy from her apartment, headed to his. She helped him organize the few things he would be taking and just kept him company until it was time for him to go. This was now.

- "How do you know Joy and I don't have hot dates."

- "Joy is a kitten and Ilana is not allowed to talk to strangers." Jihoo knew she was no longer being followed but he hired a secret bodyguard just to be safe.

- "Overprotective Oppa."

- "KaJa, Na have to ask you two to leave, Na have to get to the airport." He escorted Ilana and Joy into the outside hallway and stood in front of her door. Ilana opened the door and let Joy in first. Jihoo wrapped Ilana in his arms. "Na will see Ilana next week. Get some rest; WooBin and JaeKyung are coming back with me." He kissed her cheek again.

- "You too, don't work too hard. Jalja." Ilana stood on her toes to peck his cheek. She didn't repeat that action often, so he always cherished those times she did.

- "Na don't want Ilana to overwork herself, now go in. It's late."

- "Deh, we've been over this already. I'll go in when I don't see you anymore. Now go, so I can go in." They waved goodbye and when Ilana no longer saw Jihoo in the hall, she stepped into her apartment.

Resigning himself to sleep, Jihoo put away the laptop and fell asleep with a smile on his face.

Abigaíl was a little concerned that Morning, Dr. Jaejoong was late. Whatever other faults he had, he was never late. She looked at her phone, expecting a text saying he was in the cafe but there was nothing.

Ilana noticed Abigaíl kept looking at her phone and standing to look around the floor. "Chica, are you looking for Dr. Jaejoong?"

 - "Yes, he's late. You know, I'm going to the cafe, do you want anything?"

 - "I'm good, thank you; I made tea when I came in."

 - "I'll be right back." Abigail took out her phone as she walked and sent a text. "Going to the cafe, if you're not here by the time I have your Americano, I'll go find you and pull you here by your ear."

Jaejoong: Mianhae, I'm just pulling in. Wait for me, juseyo?

Abigaíl walked toward the hospital entrance with a coffee in each hand.

Jaejoong was practically running to the entrance. "Jagiya, I'm sorry, I'm late. I... overslept." Truthfully, he didn't want to come to work today. He delayed every second to stay with his parents. He didn't understand why he always got like this; it's been the same routine well over ten years. It was just that the emptiness always consumed him.

 - "Here," she handed him his coffee. She and Isabel prayed extra hard for him when they got home. It seemed Abigaíl was going to have to protect him from himself. "How do you feel?"  She asked sincerely.

Jaejoong smirked, "I thought I was the Doctor."

Abigaíl remained serious. "There's a time to cry and a time to laugh, you just need to figure out what time it is."

 - "Right now, I'm late, kaja." He pulled her along with him.

 - "Everything alright?" Ilana asked when Abigail arrived with Dr. Jaejoong. "I take it you found your prince?" Ilana teased.

 - "He's Isabel's prince, not mine."

Ilana gave her a 'sure he is' look.

 - "Don't give me that look, chica. I can see what you're thinking."

 - "'Ahorra se crea psíquica la mujer (now the woman thinks she's psychic)."

 - "Yes, I am. Oh, I don't think I can have lunch with you today."

 - "Oh?" Ilana gave her a raised eyebrow.

 - "I guess we should get to work before Unnie says anything."

Ilana smiled, "I have been working." Abigaíl ignored the retort and set to work.

Come lunchtime, the two teams switched places. Abigaíl and Ilana went late and Shi-Yoon and Uee went early.

Ilana took her lunch to the rooftop. It had been a while since she spent time up there due to the cold weather. Not that it wasn’t cold, still, but she found a nice sunny spot and sat. She felt like Joy when she seeks out the patches of sun that come through the floor to ceiling windows in the apartment. After eating her lunch, she then took out her phone. It was one A.M. in Seoul. Jihoo's flight arrived in four more hours she wondered what he was doing. Most likely sleeping, since she wasn't there to bother him. She decided to send him a text. "Yeobosayo, I'm bored. Abigaíl is having lunch with Dr. Jaejoong, though she won't admit it. They've been weird today. Something is going on. He was even late and Abigail went to find him downstairs. Anyway, I'm sitting on the rooftop. There's a nice spot of sun that I'm sitting under." Ilana checked the weather for Seoul. "Did you know it's going to be eighty-three degrees in Seoul? You're so lucky; bring some sun back with you. Well, you're probably enjoying your sleep; send me a text to let me know you landed safely. Annyeong." Ilana still had thirty minutes of her lunch hour left. Had time always moved so slowly when Abigaíl or Jihoo weren't with her? She couldn't call Suzy, it was only two A.M. in Seoul, and she also didn't want to bother Nana. JungMin and Suzy would be living in the little cottage on the property. Nana, Gloria, and a reluctant Brendan were getting it ready for them. They would be leaving for California as soon as KyuJong's enlistment date arrived. Ilana sighed, she was too restless to sit and read. She decided to walk slowly down the stairs back to her desk. It wouldn't hurt her to get back early.

Jaejoong was surprised Abigaíl asked him to lunch for a change. They sat in silence for a little while. Abigaíl wasn't quite sure what to say, she just felt he shouldn't be alone. "Jagiya, are you feeling okay?" He reached over to feel her forehead.

 - "Will you stop! I'm fine," she sighed. "I just thought you might want some company after...last night's announcement."

 - "Actually, yeah, I would. Thank you." There was no joking in his voice, just sincere gratitude that she would think of him and want to keep him company.

 - "Eommoni said they'll try to be back for Halloween, the time will pass quickly. Doesn't it?"

 - "Anieyo, it's the longest five to six months of my life. I try to keep busy but it doesn't work. When they are here time flies by and next thing I know they are gone and I'm alone again. I never stay home, I go to clubs and parties, dates but no matter how much I drink, how much I party, time doesn't go any faster. Abi-yah, wae?"

 - "Those are just empty pursuits," she said gently. Abigaíl didn't want to scold or yell. She knew that wasn’t what he needed at the moment. He needed to be shown the light but she didn't know how.

 - "It's easy for Abi to say, you have your family and Isabel. You don't have time to be lonely."

 - "You have a friend who sticks closer than a brother."

 - "Who?"

 - "Figure it out; I have to go back to work. I spent a while trying to find you."

 - "If I don't see you later, Happy Mother's day, say the same to Eommoni, please." Jaejoong had Abigail’s hand in his, "thank you."

Ilana had just walked in her door and was greeting Joy when she received a video text. It was from Jihoo: "As you can see I've landed safely, overprotective Ajumma." Ilana smiled at the mock insult. "Harabeoji picked me up but he kidnapped someone in the process. The hostage would like to say hello."

 - "Annyeong hasseyo, Ilana-ssi!" It was KyuJong. "Guess what? Harabeoji is taking us fishing for the morning. Don't get into any trouble while Uissa Jihoo isn't there, arraso?" This was the end of the video.

 - "I don't get into trouble," Ilana complained to the phone and Joy. As if KyuJong was listening to her mutterings, she received another text.

KyuJong: Deh agassi, you have a tendency to get into trouble. Most of the time it's by accident. Just be careful, Jihoo Uissa needs his admin and chingu.

Ilana rolled her eyes. Then another text arrived.

Jihoo: Don't roll your eyes.

Ilana was getting only slightly annoyed at her overprotective Oppa-deul. She replied to both of them.

Ilana: Chincha? Na Oppa-deul are tag-teaming me. KyuJong Oppa, make sure Jihoo Uissa doesn't just work all week. Tell him he needs to spend time with his chingu too.

KyuJong: Ke ke ke.

Jihoo: Have a good evening. Tell Joy I said Annyeong.

Ilana smiled and turned to the cat that was waiting for her to sit down. "Joy-ah, Ajussi says to tell you annyeong. Let's heat up dinner and watch 'Melody of Love'. You haven't met him but the guy who plays TaeKyung looks just like Na Oppa HyungJun." Joy meowed, letting her Umma know that the drama synopsis could wait until after she had been fed her dinner. "Ara, Ara, let's get your dinner."

I'm grateful for all my readers even the silent ones. I'm hoping to whine you out of silence one of these days.

- Saranghae!