“Oi, what do you think?” Eun Hye looked at Ji Hoon in the face closely as she tried to snap him out of his trance.

Ji Hoon shook his head. “Ah, yeah. Sorry about that.” He looked at her again. “You look so beautiful!” He said in awe.

“Aish, stop pulling my leg and let’s just go.” She pulled him up and dragged him near the door.
“Umma! Appa… I suppose you already know Ji Hoon.” She said when she remembered that she hadn’t formally introduced him to her parents.

“Don’t worry about it, dear. We’ve acquainted ourselves with each other, while you two were busy gussying up.” Mr. Yoon teasingly said.

“Oh~.” Eun Hye laughed. “I guess we’ll be leaving now.”

“Have a nice evening, dear!” Mrs. Yoon shouted from the kitchen. Mr. Yoon, on the other hand, motioned for them to leave.

The car ride had been awkwardly quiet the entire trip. Ji-Ahn could sense uneasiness from Eun Hye who was seated in the passenger seat, and calmness from Ji Hoon, who was focused on the road. She kept quiet herself, leaning comfortably on the back seat as she watched how the two interacted in front of her, as if watching a drama on screen.

A few minutes more, they arrive at the destination. Ji Hoon parked his car, and quickly went out to give Eun Hye, first of all, and Ji-Ahn a hand at the door.

Sun Ki had been waiting in a nearby corner, and made his way to the three as soon as he saw them get out. He offered his hand at Ji-Ahn, which was gladly accepted as they eventually made their way inside the medium-sized hall. Ji Hoon saw this and offered his’ too for Eun Hye to accept, but instead, she refused to take his arm.

He offered once again, and was forced to place her hand on his, when she refused one more time.

“Come on, I won’t hurt you.” He said as he gave her an approving wink, as if to tell her that he would never be like Lee Jung, not that she was aware that he knew though.

Eun Hye turned to her left to hide the sheepish grin that had somehow spread across her face.

They both entered quietly, greeted eventually by Jeong Hoon, who was waiting near the door, grinning at the sight of the beautiful pair. He led them to their seats, somewhere near his, his girlfriend, and their friends.

“You stay here. I’ll get food for the both of us.” Ji Hoon said as he urged her to sit down.

“Ji Hoon.” She grabbed his arm. “I’ll come with you. There’s no one for me to talk to in there.” She said, pointing at the familiar couples idly chatting at the table.

In school, she could’ve cared less of the unfamiliarity of the people surrounding her, as long as she is with Ji-Ahn, and in a familiar place. But this was entirely different as Ji-Ahn was preoccupied with Sun Ki, and they were in hall completely foreign to her.

She glanced from side-to-side, seemingly trying to seek for anyone she knew well enough to be able to strike a conversation with, and will eventually ease her nervousness. Instead, she found herself helplessly hanging onto Ji Hoon’s arm, which Ji Hoon gladly kept in place, as he smiled.

After getting food from the buffet table, both of them returned to their seats and quietly ate together with everyone else. This is so awkward. Eun Hye thought.

Ji Hoon sensed her uneasiness and started to talk to her. “Are you alright?” His voice half-filled with concern, half-filled with curiosity.

“Yup.” She said as she beamed a smile, feeling relieved that Ji Hoon had broken the awkward silence. “I haven’t been to parties such as this since…” Words seemed to fail Eun Hye as she choked on them.

“Since when?” Ji Hoon replied trying to get her to open up to him.

“Since Jr. High.” Eun Hye faintly replied.

Ji Hoon brought his chair closer to hers and gently placed his arm over her shoulder. He knew about it well enough to know that it had been a traumatizing experience for her. He tried to make her feel more comfortable by playfully spoon-feeding her the moment he noticed that she has neglected her food.

“Come on. Eat it.” Ji Hoon placed a spoonful of rice in front of her mouth. “I won’t drive you home if you don’t eat this.” He threatened.

“Arasseo. I’ll eat.” She opened her mouth wide enough to let the rice-filled spoon in. She took the spoon from him. “I can manage to eat on my own.” She said to prevent him from feeding her again.

Little did she know, that couple-ly act was not left unnoticed by everyone else seated at the table. Eun Hye looked up to them, only to see them smiling at her and Ji Hoon. She quickly smacked Ji Hoon’s hand, when she realized what had happened.

“What was that for?” Ji Hoon spat at her, as he gently rubbed his hand.

“Look at what you did! They’re now looking at us because of what you did.” Her eyes turned into thin slits, with her eyebrows all crunched up.

Ji Hoon laughed at her. “I wouldn’t have done that if you had only eaten, and besides I promised your father I’d take good care of you, so I’m practicing it as early as now.” He said without pausing. He quickly bit his lower lip as soon as what he had said sunk into him.

“What do you mean by… take care of me?” Her eyes grew big, a far comparison from the slits that they were a few moments ago.

“Aa—aniyo.” Ji Hoon immediately said. “I’m responsible for the both of you tonight… It’s just that.”

“But you mentioned something about practicing.” She knew there was more to that, and she was determined to find it out. She pinched him on the hand that was hidden underneath the table. “Tell me!”

Ji Hoon tried his best to keep himself from shouting. He didn’t know Eun Hye was capable of inflicting so much pain by just pinching.

Soo Yoon noticed the commotion between the two. “Is there something wrong?”

“Nothing.” Both replied in unison.

“Alright, alright. I’ll tell you. Just stop it with the pinching… It terribly hurts, you know!” Ji Hoon told Eun Hye. “Later, on our way home, arasseo?”

“You better do or else you’d get more than just a pinch!” Eun Hye threatened.

Ji Hoon had something else in mind when he heard the phrase ‘more than just a pinch’, evidently seen in the smirk on his face.

“You’d better not be thinking of anything nasty in that perverted mind of yours or else…”

Ji Hoon cut her short just as Eun Hye had cut him short from his thoughts. “I know, I know. I’d get… more than just a pinch.” He said with an even bigger smile than earlier.

“Whatever Ji Hoon.” She turned back to her plate and enjoyed her meal.

A few moments later, dance music was played and all spotlights were focused on the dance floor, leaving everything else dark.

Jeong Hoon stood up and walked hand-in-hand with his girlfriend, hinting the people to come along and dance with them. Other tables were soon emptied as guests slowly filled the dance floor.

Ji Hoon stood up and offered his hand to Eun Hye. “May I invite you for a dance?” He said trying to sound as formal as possible.

“But I don’t dance.” Eun Hye adamantly replied.

“You don’t dance or you don’t know how to dance?” Ji Hoon teased.

“I know how to dance, for your information.” She said eyeing him.

“Then why don’t you prove it to me.” He said with a smile on his face, as he once again offered his hand to her.

Eun Hye reluctantly took his hand and stood up. They both walked towards the dance floor, and as if on cue, the music shifted from a fast-beat to a slow one.

“Yah! What is this? Just my lucky night.” Eun Hye said from exasperation.

Eun Hye felt chills slowly creep up her spine as Ji Hoon comfortably placed his arms around her waist. Eun Hye hesitated at first, but eventually found herself putting her arms around his neck.

The music was soothing enough that Eun Hye unconsciously rested her head on Ji Hoon’s chest as they slow danced. Ji Hoon looked down at Eun Hye and felt wonderful knowing that she is relaxed in his arms. He gently pulled her closer to him, and she willingly obliged this time, without him having to ask twice.

She was surprised at how she felt comfortable with him. She liked the way his body felt wrapped around her, his warmth, his arms slowly guiding her where to move next—she was surprised that she liked being just around him. It was something she couldn’t explain to herself, and just gladly accepted as it is.

“You know what…” Eun Hye said with her head still snuggly resting over his chest.

“What is it?” Ji Hoon looked at her.

“You are the first guy to ever become my friend since Jr. High.” She said, intoxicated with the inexplicable feelings that had slowly engulfed her.

“I know.” He softly whispered to her.

At that instant, Eun Hye snapped from her daze and looked up at him. “You do?” She asked as she stood back a bit to look at him, her eyes pleading with an answer.

“Yes.” He smiled. “I’ll tell you everything later, arasseo.” He carefully placed her head back to where it was before and drew her closer to him, as if to tell her that she has nothing to worry about, and continued dancing amongst the crowd.

Ji-Ahn came over to Eun Hye’s house after lunch time to prepare for the party later. She opened the door to Eun Hye’s room and saw a flowery blouse and dark jeans laid out over the bed. Eun Hye came out of the bathroom in her robe, surprised to see her best friend tinkering with the clothes in her closet.

“Are you sure that is what you plan to wear later?” Ji-Ahn said without turning her back to face Eun Hye.

“Yes? Is there a problem with that?” Eun Hye asked eyeing Ji-Ahn as she looked at the clothes scattered all over her room.

“You can’t wear that!” Ji-Ahn said. “Don’t you have any dresses in here… or even just a skirt?” She continued to raid the closet.

“No.”

“Aish Eun Hye-yah. You can’t wear that! It’s too… casual. We’re going to a cocktail party, not a children’s party.” She took out dresses from the bag she brought with her. “Good thing I brought some clothes with me.” She took a green knee-length halter dress from the pile of dresses and handed it to Eun Hye.

Eun Hye stared at the dress for a while before grabbing it from Ji-Ahn. “Isn’t this dress a little too skimpy?” She eyed the dress and looked disgusted at the thought of wearing it.

“What skimpy? It is not. Now go try it on… Ppali!” She pushed Eun Hye into the bathroom to let her try the dress.

Eun Hye tried the dress on and looked at herself in the full-length mirror on one of the walls of the bathroom. She looked at herself from top to bottom and shivered at the thought of going out in such a short dress. But I do look pretty, don’t I? She glanced at the mirror one more time before going out.

“Omo… You’re so pretty! My best friend is so pretty!” Ji-Ahn squealed. She was stunned at the pretty girl in front of her. The dress fitted her perfectly, showing off the well-toned curves that were always hidden under loose shirts and pants. “If only you would wear sexier clothes to flaunt your beautiful body. Aish.” Ji-Ahn said, trying to make Eun Hye guilty for wearing tomboyish clothes.

“Okay, fine.” She gave up. “I’ll wear this later.”

It was 6 pm when Ji Hoon arrived at the Yoon’s residence to pick Eun Hye and Ji-Ahn up. One hour early. He rang the door bell and waited outside until he was welcomed by Eun Hye’s father. Mr. Yoon offered him a seat as he waited patiently for Eun Hye and Ji-Ahn to come down.

“Thank you, Mr. Yoon.” Ji Hoon politely said as he sat down on the couch.

“You are Ji Hoon, aren’t you?” Mr. Yoon asked as he scrutinized Ji Hoon from top to bottom, which made Ji Hoon conscious.

“Yes, I am.”

“Oh my, what a handsome young man Ji Hoon is!” Mrs. Yoon came out from the kitchen to greet their visitor. “Just wait for the two. You know how ladies are. They try to make themselves pretty for everyone.” She said.

“Kamsahamnida, Mrs. Yoon.” Ji Hoon smiled. He turned back to Mr. Yoon, who was sitting in a chair in front of him.

“Do you happen to like our daughter, by any chance?” Mr. Yoon interrogated Ji Hoon.

What the—? Even her parents know about this? Ji-Aaaahn~. “Uhhm…” Ji Hoon cleared his throat before answering Mr. Yoon. “Uh, your daughter… She’s… I think she’s pretty and nice.” Paboh! Lame answer Ji Hoon. His cheeks have become redder than earlier.

“I see.” Mr. Yoon answered calmly. “She is very pretty. But do you like her?” He asked again.

Ji Hoon looked down and nodded.

“And does she know?”

He stiffened up with this question. “To be honest sir, I don’t know how I will tell her. She seems so tough.” At this point he was embarrassed revealing that he was afraid to tell Eun Hye he likes her. I am a coward, I know.

Mr. Yoon chuckled a bit. “Well, she is one tough girl. That, I assure you of.” He leaned forward and asked, “Did she ever tell you anything about her Jr. High life?”

Ji Hoon grew curious as to what Mr. Yoon was driving at. “No, sir. What happened to her back in Jr. High?”

“Our Eun Hye wasn’t like this before Jr. High. She was the heartthrob in her class back then.” Ji Hoon was surprised to hear that fact, and continued to listen attentively. “Well, she was until she got terribly heartbroken.”

“Would you mind, sir, if I ask who it was that broke her heart?” He tried to remain polite despite his curiosity.

“No, not at all. His name was Lee Jung.” Mr. Yoon rested his back on the couch and continued. “Eun Hye really liked him back then, and we thought he liked her too.” He said as he reminisced the past. “She seemed so happy even though it looks like puppy love to us. Little did we know that he was just using her to gain popularity. Once he gained popularity, he dumped her and spread nasty rumors about her.”

Ji Hoon was looking at his feet, while listening intently to everything Mr. Yoon had told him. So that’s why she acts so tough around others.

“Ever since then, Eun Hye has never opened her heart nor did she give her trust to any man.” Mr. Yoon was looking at Ji Hoon by now. “That’s why we’re very much surprised that you even became friends with her.”

“Oh, I see.” Ji Hoon didn’t know what to say after Eun Hye’s father revealed a part of his daughter’s past, which Eun Hye had tried to bury deep in her heart.

“I’ll cut to the point.” Mr. Yoon said. Ji Hoon looked back up at him, sensing that there’s a deep reason as to why Mr. Yoon disclosed such a secret to him. “We both know that you like her. And I’m pretty sure my Eun Hye’s also fond of you to have even let you in her life this far.”

Ji Hoon nodded in approval.

“You see, we are migrating to America in two weeks, but Eun Hye wants to stay behind to finish her studies. We would like you to watch over her while we are away.”

Ji Hoon’s eyes grew big at Mr. Yoon’s request. This will be a big responsibility for him, and he is uncertain if he can fulfill it.

“I trust you enough seeing that my daughter trusts you to this extent. I’m sure you wouldn’t disappoint us by doing anything you shouldn’t do.” Mr. Yoon’s voice became firm as he said the last part.

“Yes, sir.” Nervousness evident in his voice as it trembled a bit. “I’ll take good care of your daughter.”

Mr. Yoon leaned closer and patted Ji Hoon’s shoulder to reassure him that he is capable of fulfilling this request. “And if, by chance, she ends up liking you…” He went back to his seat. “You have our approval to be her boyfriend.” Mr. Yoon gave him a wink. “I just advise you to take things slow with her. She’s a bit sensitive about these kind of things.”

He returned the gesture by smiling back at Mr. Yoon. Have I been terribly good over the past year? Santa is showering me with so much presents this early. Ji Hoon thought.

After 5 more minutes of waiting, Ji-Ahn went down followed by an abashed Eun Hye.

“Finally, you two decided to come down. Ji Hoon’s been waiting here for 35 minutes already.” Mr. Yoon said.

Ji Hoon turned to his back and looked at the two ladies coming down the narrow stairs. His jaw dropped when he saw Eun Hye wearing a green dress, which exuded her wonderfully curved body, and her jet black hair hanging loosely over her shoulders. He kept ogling at her until she went down and snapped her fingers at him.

 

Eun Hye and Ji-Ahn's dresses.

The calmness in Eun Hye’s sleep was disturbed by a knocking on her door. She stood up and opened the door, with eyes half-opened.

“Umma. You’re here already? Where’s appa?” Eun Hye said as she saw her mother standing outside her bedroom door.

“Dinner’s ready.” Mrs. Yoon smiled as she looked at her tired daughter. “Come down quick. Your appa has good news to tell you.”

“Appa won the lottery?” Eun Hye said, trying to guess what the news was about.

“Aniyo. It’s not that. Just come down and let him be the one to tell you.”

Eun Hye washed up and excitedly went to the dining room where her parents were. She sat down and grabbed a plateful of food before asking about the news.
“Appa, what’s the good news?” She said as she ate a spoonful of kimchi.

Her father cut to the chase and bluntly told her what it was. “Eun Hye-yah. I recently got a job offer from a Korean company in California, and they allowed me to bring my entire family there.” He drank from his glass of water before continuing. “We’re migrating there immediately after your classes end.”

Contrary to what her parents had expected from her, she was obviously displeased with her father’s sudden decision to move. “But appa, my life is in here. I don’t think I can leave Korea in two weeks.” Her voice growing weaker as she thought of the new life she has to face in another country.

“You have no choice, sweetie.” Her mother slowly explained to her as she tried to persuade her daughter. “We already had this house rented and they’re going to move in next, next week.”

“What?!” Eun Hye was at a loss of words. She tried to think of possible ways to keep herself from leaving. “I ca—No. Umma, appa…” She pleadingly said, trying to force them to take back their decision. “If you want, you two can go ahead. I promise to follow after I graduate college.”

“But that’s in two years time, sweetie.” Her mother continued. “Where are you going to live? Who’s gonna watch over you?”

“Umma, please…” She said as tears started to form in her eyes. “I’ll rent an apartment. Ji-Ahn and her parents could watch over me… Please, just… not now.”

Ever since she was young, Eun Hye wanted a nice life for her parents, and right now, she is happy that somehow, someway her wish is slowly being granted. But, at the same time, she didn’t want to leave behind her life in Seoul. She wasn’t ready to start a new life in a new place, especially now that she beginning to enjoy her college life.

“Umma… Appa…” She pleaded once more.

Her parents sighed at her persistence. “We’ll think about it.”

“Ummmaa, appppaaa~! Don’t you trust me?”

“We do. It’s just hard for us to leave you here.” Mr. Yoon softly told her, with concern written all over his face.

“Appa, I’m 19 turning 20. I can manage, but please don’t force me to leave now.” Her voice was full of confidence this time as she tried to encourage her parents.

“I know that. We know that, sweetie.” He paused. “It’s just—We’ll think about it first.”

Eun Hye knew she couldn’t argue with them any longer. She remained silent as she ate her dinner. Thoughts were popping in her mind as she thought of ways to convince them to let her stay for two more years.

She was about to head back up to her room when she remembered Jeong Hoon’s invitation for his party.

“Uu—mma, appa…” She slowly said.

“Yes Eun Hye? What is it?” Her mother asked.

“I was invited by my friend to his birthday party on Saturday. Ji Hoon’s going to pick me and Ji-Ahn up, and bring us back home. Is it alright?”

“Sure dear.” Her mother immediately agreed knowing Ji-Ahn is with her. “But, who’s Ji Hoon? Is he Ji-Ahn’s boyfriend?”

“Oh, no. He’s my clas—friend… and classmate this semester. I’ll introduce him to you on Saturday.” Eun Hye said as she carefully chose her words, so as not to give her parents a different impression. “Ji-Ahn likes his friend, though. Sun Ki.” She said as if there was a dire need to clarify that Ji Hoon and Ji-Ahn weren’t going out.

Mr. and Mrs. Yoon exchanged looks and seemed to be exchanging ideas through their eyes.

“Alright then. Goodnight dear.” Mr. Yoon told her

She kissed both her parents good night before heading back to her room to sleep.

 

CHAPTER X

 

Eun Hye snapped back into reality upon realizing that she had been staring at Ji Hoon for more than a minute. She nudged him on the side to wake him up from hi nap.

Ji Hoon slowly opened his eyes and looked at Eun Hye. “What time is it? Should we leave now?” He asked, obviously still sleepy.

“Hm, I guess so.” She grabbed her things along with their paper and walked out to the garage.

“I’ll be right there!” Ji Hoon shouted back at her as he changed his clothes and prepared his things.

While waiting for him, Eun Hye saw the housekeeper trimming some plants. She smiled when the housekeeper looked in her direction.

“Do you need anything, Eun Hye-ssi?” Mrs. Yang asked.

“Oh, no madam. Thanks anyway.” Eun Hye politely replied.

Mrs. Kang smiled. “You are so pretty, Eun Hye-ssi. Are you Ji Hoon-ssi’s girlfriend?” She said. “You seem to be the first girl he has ever brought to his home.”

“I am?” Eun Hye curiously asked. “Oh, you got it wrong madam. We just worked on a project.”

“I see. It would have been nice if you were, though.” She sighed. “I’ve never seen him this light-hearted since his mother had died and his sister migrated.”

“Oh…”

“Eun Hye, you ready?” Ji Hoon asked as walked towards her.

“Shouldn’t I be the one asking you that?” She eyed Ji Hoon. “Ppalihwa. We still need to practice our report.” She turned to Mrs. Yang. “Kamsahamnida, madam.”

Both Eun Hye and Ji Hoon entered the car and went to the university. As Ji Hoon drove, he would practice saying his speech out loud. Eun Hye would make corrections every so often, and then Ji Hoon would repeat saying the entire speech.

“Do you have any more corrections, Ms. Perfect?” Ji Hoon annoyingly asked.

Eun Hye giggled. “No more.”

“Summer vacation’s gonna start soon…” Ji Hoon said as he drove.

“And so?”

“Nothing.” Ji Hoon said as he sighed. “I didn’t know that we’d actually survive working with each other without physically hurting one another.”

He seems to have drifted into deep thought. “What’s the connection with summer vacation?” Eun Hye asked, not understanding what Ji Hoon was trying to tell her.

Ji Hoon didn’t answer her, but threw a question at her instead. “Friends?” He said as he extended his hand to her.

Eun Hye still did not understand what was going on in his mind. She hesitated at first, but shook his hand in the end. “Friends.” She smiled at him. “So, what IS with the summer vacation?”

“Well…” Ji Hoon looked at her. “You know how boring summer is. Since we are already friends, do you mind if I visit you once in a while, or hang out with you?”

Eun Hye was even more puzzled. “Don’t you have your friends with you? Why not hang out with them instead?”

“Aish… They can get boring, you know. Maybe you can join us once in a while… I’ll introduce you to them later.”

“A—Alright. If you say so.” She stopped questioning him and looked straight into the road.

After 15 minutes, they arrived at school. Ji Hoon opened the door for Eun Hye and escorted her out the car.

“Don’t forget your speech, arasseo? I want a high grade later.” Eun Hye reminded.

“Ne, Eun Hye. I won’t forget.” He reassured her. “Oh, by the way, you look pretty in skirts. Maybe you should wear them more often.” He smiled as he looked at her from top to bottom.

She suddenly remembered that she was wearing the flowy knee-length skirt Ji-Ahn had lent to her. Shoot. She had no choice but to wear the clothes her best friend gave her, since she didn’t bring any other clothes.

She smacked Ji Hoon’s arm harshly. “Shut up! Think about your report!” She said and walked away.

Ji Hoon noticed her blush with his compliment and chuckled.

After their first class, Ji-Ahn and Eun Hye walked to the class they shared, while Ji Hoon went there by himself, as always.

“So~. How did your night at his house go?” Ji-Ahn curiously asked Eun Hye.

“What do you mean by that?” She shot back sensing the thought Ji-Ahn is thinking. “It went fine. We finished writing the paper.”

“Oh, come one. That’s all?” Ji-Ahn insisted.

“Yes. That’s all.” She said as she sat down on her seat.

Ji-Ahn sat on her seat as well. She was about to tease her more, when she saw Ji Hoon already sitting beside Eun Hye.

The class went well for the three of them. Ji-Ahn did well with her partner. Eun Hye and Ji Hoon also did well and were even praised by their professor for their teamwork. Soon the class ended and they were dismissed.

“Eun Hye!” Ji Hoon shouted before she got out of the room.

Eun Hye turned to look at Ji Hoon and saw him heading towards her.

“Do you have plans after class?” Ji Hoon added.

“Nope. Why?”

“I said I’m gonna introduce you to my friends and you agreed, right?”

“Oh, yeah. Okay.”

“I’ll pick you up at your classroom later, then?”

“Sure.”

“Oi~. Does that mean we don’t get to hang out later?” Ji-Ahn interrupted.

“Ji Hoon, can she come with us?” Eun Hye asked.

“Sure, she can. You can formally introduce her to me and the rest of the gang later.” He smiled and walked away.   

“Aish, you only spent a night at his house, and you’ve already replaced me for him?” Ji-Ahn said with a fake frown.

“Yaah! I am not. Anyway, I’ll see you later too, okay?” Eun Hye hugged her bestfriend and went to her last class.

---

Ji-Ahn and Ji Hoon met up outside Eun Hye’s classroom and waited for her patiently. Since they didn’t know each other that well, there wasn’t much conversation between the two of them.

“I know you really like her even if you never admitted it to me last time.” Ji-Ahn softly said as she stared at the wall ahead her.

“I…” Ji Hoon couldn’t handle conversations like this very well. He’d always choke on his words.

“You don’t have to say anything.” Ji-Ahn continued. “Just promise me you won’t hurt her, will you?”

He remained quiet.

“You know, Eun Hye’s pride is pretty much way up there. If you’re intending to make her fall for you, you have to admit it to her or else you’ll leave her confused. She definitely won’t be the one to first admit it, that, I am sure of.” She briefly glanced at Ji Hoon and saw him thinking deeply. “I bet her pride is even higher than yours. Think about what I’ve told you carefully.”

“Why are you telling me this?” Ji Hoon looked at her.

“You seem to be so desperate and clueless about what to do. I’m just giving you an advice on how to approach her.” She explained.

“Thanks.” He lightly patted Ji-Ahn’s shoulder. “I owe you one.”

“You can repay me by introducing me to some of your handsome buddies.” Excitement was evident in her eyes. “Since, I don’t think I can ever get you.” She winked at him.

Ji Hoon laughed at her statement. “Arasseo, I will.”

Ji-Ahn looked at her classroom to look for her friend among the crowd of exiting students.

“Eun Hye-yah! We’re over here.” Ji-Ahn shouted, waving enthusiastically to her. “Ppali! Your boyfriend here just promised to introduce me to his handsome buddies!”

Ji Hoon smiled upon hearing the word boyfriend come out of Ji-Ahn’s mouth. Meanwhile, Eun Hye placed her arms on her friend’s shoulders like old times. Ji-Ahn talked too fast that she initially didn’t notice the word boyfriend, until it dawned on her that it was actually mentioned.

“What do you mean boyfriend?” She took off her arm and nudged Ji-Ahn. “He’s not my boyfriend!”

Ji-Ahn looked behind her and winked at Ji Hoon.

He walked beside the two girls ahead of him and went beside Eun Hye. “Come here chagi.” He smiled and placed her arms on his. Ji-Ahn watched the two and smiled.

“What chagi?” Eun Hye shouted and tried to take her arm back but Ji Hoon didn’t let her go. She looked at Ji-Ahn to ask for help but Ji-Ahn just smiled at her. “You two are ganging up on me, aren’t you? I thought you didn’t know her?” She asked Ji Hoon, slapping him on the arm.

“Well, we’ve met and chatted earlier and now we know each other.” Ji Hoon casually explained. “Now, don’t be so stubborn and just keep you arms linked with mine… chagi.” He smirked at her.

“Yah!” She gave up since Ji Hoon was too strong.

Ji Hoon kept his arms linked with Eun Hye’s, and this caused a stir among other female students who fancied and hope to be with him. None of them minded the people, though. They continued to walk until they reached the pavilion Ji Hoon and his friends would usually stay at after classes.

Ji Hoon walked in the pavilion with his arms still linked with Eun Hye. He introduced both girls to his friends and vice versa.

“Ji Hoon! So glad to have finally met your girlfriend.” Sun Ki said.

“For the nth time, I am not his girlfriend!” Eun Hye defensively said.

“Yah~. Then why is your arms linked with his?” Soo Yoon inquisitively asked.

Eun Hye decided it was no use to argue with the guys and just let them be. “Think whatever you want but I am not his girlfriend.”

“Arasseo.” Everyone said in unison, including Ji-Ahn.

Ji Hoon laughed at the sight of everyone ganging up on Eun Hye. “Okay, enough everyone.” He said, still laughing. “Don’t mind them, they’re insane like that.” He turned to Eun Hye.

“I am aware of that. You don’t have to tell me.” She rolled her eyes at him.

“Oh, by the way, Eun Hye, I’m inviting you to my saengil party next Saturday. I’m sure Ji Hoon would love to have you as his partner.” Jeong Hoon told her. “And I won’t take no for an answer.” He gave out his sweetest smile.

Everybody wants to pair me up with him. “I guess I have no choice, now do I?” She replied.

Meanwhile, Ji-Ahn and Sun Ki seem to be living in their own world as they happily chatted and laughed.

“I guess Sun Ki has found his pair. That only leaves you, Soo Yoon.” Ji Hoon said hitting Soo Yoon’s arm.

“Don’t worry about me. I’ll have one in no time… You know me.” He replied.

“Yeah, I know.” Ji Hoon laughed. “Anyway, it’s getting dark. Eun Hye, I’ll bring you home.” He said as he grabbed her arm.

“Ji-Ahn!” Eun Hye called to get her friend’s attention. “Do you want to come with us? Ji Hoon’s bringing me home.”

“Don’t worry about her, Eun Hye. Sun Ki can do that.” Ji Hoon spoke for Ji-Ahn. “Besides, she’s still enjoying her time with Sun Ki.” He turned to Ji-Ahn and shouted “Right Ji-Ahn?”  

“Yes, yes. Go ahead Eun Hye-yah.” Ji-Ahn affirmed Ji Hoon.

Ji Hoon and Eun Hye left and had a quiet drive on her way to her house. Ji-Ahn really knew her friend well, because at this point, Eun Hye is beyond confused about the things that had just happened. She couldn’t tell if they were all toying with her or if Ji Hoon really has feelings for her. She stared at the window for quite some time, until she dozed off.

When they arrived at her home, Ji Hoon gently woke her up to tell her that she’s home.

“Eun Hye, we’re here.” His voice was gentle as he softly and repeatedly nudged her to wake her up.

Eun Hye rubbed her eyes and yawned as she finally woke up. “Tha… Thank you, Ji Hoon.”

“Don’t mind it. What are friends for, right?” He emphasized the word friends as if to hint her of something. Friends… for now.

Eun Hye didn’t notice this and went out the door. She stopped by the gate and waved as she waited for Ji Hoon to leave. When he finally left, she went inside and continued her rest that has been cut short.

Yes, Eun Hye, you are... I hope you really are… falling for me. Ji Hoon thought as he drove back to his home. He was awake long enough to hear Eun Hye speaking her innermost thoughts earlier this morning. I really do hope.

 

I seriously love Kim Jeong-Hoon's (John-Hoon) voice, even though I tremendously hate his acting roles. He is one of the few male singers I know, who can hit high notes without sounding so off for a male singer. (I recommend listening to his version of "Parrot" here.)

KJH recently released his latest album, Boku wa Kimi wo Aishiteru with three main songs: "Boku wa Kimi wo Aishiteru", "The Best of My Life" and "Ready to Go!" It also includes a couple of instumentals but I have no clue about their titles.

So far, the first two songs sound nice. Still in touch with the theme he used in his other album, Sad Song, "Boku wa Kimi wo Aishiteru" speaks of a sad heart and parting ways with a love one.

The second single though, is more upbeat and similar to "Sirius" and "Yamanai Ame". Still, his songs are sung entirely in Japanese like his two previous albums as a solo singer. I would have to say that from Five Stella Lights to Boku wa Kimi wo Aishiteru, his Japanese enunciation and pronunciation has improved a lot. Words are more clearly differentiated in Boku wa Kimi wo Aishiteru unlike the somewhat slurry Japanese in Five Stella Lights. I just wish he had thought of a more creative title to this one. I mean, seriously, having "I love you" as your title is too... common. Besides, it's also too long for a title. ^^;

*'Boku wa Kimi wo Aishiteru' is 'I love you' from a male speaker since the words, 'Boku' and 'Kimi' are only spoken by male Japanese. Female and formal version is the well-known 'Watashi' and 'Anata' for 'I' and 'You', respectively.

Sample songs:

Picture, sample song and information credit to lovewls and myy of kimjunghoonlub. 

CHAPTER IX

4:35AM. Eun Hye sat up and glanced at the wall clock ahead her.

“Another nightmare…” She said as she tried to catch her breath. “It must be the stress I’m having this week.”

She stood up and walked around the room. A picture near the television caught her attention—it was of Ji Hoon and his noona. They look cute… He was still very young in this picture. She walked back to the bed and tried to get back to sleep. Just as she was about to close her eyes, an image came into her mind, she immediately touched her cheek.

“No way—! It can’t be… Did he… ki—kiss me on the cheek last night?” By now, a plethora of questions were running in her mind. “I vaguely remember anything… I was too sleepy. Perhaps it was just a dream.” She said as she tried to recount what happened last night. But soon enough, she fell asleep from all the thinking.

Ji Hoon woke up early to get a head start on their project and finish it on time before their classes start. He stood up, washed his face, and went to his noona’s room to see if Eun Hye’s awake.

As he opened the door, he saw Eun Hye still sleeping on the bed. He slowly walked in and sat beside her on the bed.

“Eun Hye-yah, Eun Hye-yah!” He called out her name as he gently tapped her shoulder. “Eun Hye-yah~! Sun’s up. Time to wake up sleepy head.”

After a few minutes Eun Hye rubbed her eyes and woke up. She sat up and saw Ji Hoon sitting beside her.

Ji Hoon gently smiled at her. “Finally! You’re awake.” He was beginning to sound frustrated. “I thought you didn’t have any plans of waking up."

Eun Hye glanced at the clock again. It read 6:05. An hour of sleep. She thought. She looked back at Ji Hoon and remembered the thought that had been bothering her before she fell asleep.

Euh Hye blushed. “I guess I got too comfy with this bed.” She smiled. “Ji Hoon.”

“Yes?”

“Did you happen to—. Last night, … , did you?” Although she wanted to know, she couldn’t get the words out of her mouth. What am I thinking? It couldn’t be… That’s Ji Hoon, for crying out loud.

Ji Hoon got the idea and held onto his breath as he listened to what Eun Hye was about to ask him. “Whu—What is it that you wanted to ask me?”

Eun Hye decided to believe that it was just a dream and brushed off the thought. She stood up and headed for the bathroom to wash up. “Ooh. Never mind. I must have been dreaming too much.”

Ji Hoon sighed in relief. He was glad Eun Hye didn’t ask him about the night before. He knew he didn’t have the courage to begin explaining his feelings for her. “Okay then. Once you’re done, we’ll have breakfast and continue with our project. You still have to proofread the paper.” He shouted back at her to make sure she hears what he was saying.

Eun Hye went down as soon as she finished washing up, and saw Ji Hoon already eating at the dining table. She sat down and joined him for breakfast.

“Ji Hoon.”

“You really are full of questions aren’t you, tommy?” He teased. “What is it this time?”

“Why are you being sooo very nice to me all of a sudden?” She asked as she stared at him intently.

Ji Hoon laughed out loud for her persistence and as a way to hide his nervousness. “I told you, I’d continue being this way as long as it bothers you.” He continued to laugh. “Why tommy? Are you falling for me already?” He asked while still laughing.

Eun Hye wasn’t able to respond immediately. The question struck her like a lightning. Am I falling for him already? She glared at him instead.

“I have a question for you too.” Ji Hoon continued. “Why are yout acting so nice to me too, huh?

She felt like disappearing as questions came falling down on her. She did not know how to respond as she, herself, was unsure of her feelings. She did not know why she was acting that way. Where is the tough Eun Hye that used to be so strong when I’m around this jerk?

“I—don’t know.” She said as softly and quietly as possible as she slowly looked back down on her plate. 

Ji Hoon sensed her uneasiness. “Forget about it. I was just teasing you.” He smiled and patted her on the shoulder. “I’ll just be in the study room.” He said as he stood up and walked away.

“What is happening to me? Why am I acting this way? This isn’t like me at all!” She muttered as she slowly chewed on her food.

She went up to the study room to check on him.

“Move.” Eun Hye commanded as she tugged on his shirt.

Ji Hoon stood up and offered Eun Hye the seat. She quietly proofread their paper as Ji Hoon occasionally explained his part to her. She became too engrossed with the editing that she didn’t notice Ji Hoon had dozed off on the seat beside her. She stared at him intently for a moment and thought about what he had asked her this morning, and everything else that had happened the day before.

 “Am I actually falling for you… Ji Hoon?” She told herself. “Am I?”

CHAPTER VIII

Ji Hoon led Eun Hye to their living room and offered her a seat as he called out to their house helper to serve them juice. He glanced back at Eun Hye and caught her looking at his house as if she has never seen a house before.

“Hey, Eun Hye.”

Eun Hye faced Ji Hoon. “Yes?”

“Do you find something wrong with my house? You keep on looking around as if you’ve never seen one before.” He asked inquisitively.

“Oh, that… It’s just that…”

“What is it?”

“I thought you live in some kind of a mansion or something.” She bowed down to hide her shyness.

“Chinchayo?” He was quite surprised. People never seem to stop surprising me today.

Eun Hye nodded.

Ji Hoon walked towards the sofa and sat beside Eun Hye. “What made you think so?” He faced her, eagerly waiting for a response.

“My first impression of you was more of a spoiled brat rich-kid, but seeing you now made me think otherwise.”

“Hmm… Is that so?” He leaned back on the sofa and rested his head. “Things… appearances can be deceiving, you know.”

They finished drinking their juice and went straight to the study room to write their draft. Eun Hye shared her part of the paper, which she has diligently finished on time, while Ji Hoon started to write his on the computer.

Every few minutes or so, Eun Hye would glance at Ji Hoon and check on how he is doing. She’d often help him in writing since she didn’t want to stay up too late

It was only around 9:30 pm when the helper called both of them for dinner. Eun Hye immediately stood up and went down and Ji Hoon trailed behind her. They both sat down at the table and ate their dinner.

At one point, Ji Hoon stopped eating and stared at Eun Hye. She looks adorable when she’s eating like this. I must’ve starved her too much for her to eat so much. He smiled. Eun Hye, on the other hand, was oblivious to the fact that Ji Hoon had been staring at her because she was enjoying her food too much.

Their silence was broken by Eun Hye’s curiosity. “Do you really eat this late everyday?”

Ji Hoon quickly took his eyes off her and continued eating. He only nodded to her question.

“How about your parents?” Eun Hye said, still full of curiosity. “Don’t you eat with them?”

“My father’s a doctor in the ER, so he really doesn’t get to stay here that much, while my mother comes home late from work everyday.” He said in a monotonous tone. “Why do you seem so interested with my life, anyway?” Curiosity creeping in his voice.

Eun Hye blushed upon realizing that she must’ve asked too many questions. “Oh… I guess I’m just not used to this… you know, eating without my parents.”

Ji Hoon could only smile. His attention was diverted when the door opened. “Speaking of which, my mother’s here.” He stood up and offered his hand to Eun Hye. “Come, I’ll introduce you to her.” He said with a smile.

Eun Hye reached out to his hand and went with him to meet his mother.

“Umma, I’d like you to meet my classmate, Eun Hye.” He looked at Eun Hye. “Eun Hye, my mother.”

“Annyeong! It’s nice to meet you.” She smiled and bowed down.

“Nice to meet you too, dear” Mrs. Joo gave a warm smile. “Ji Hoon, I’ll be upstairs if you need anything.” With this she went up and left the two of them there.

Eun Hye noticed that his family doesn’t seem to be as intact as hers was. They don’t hug each other, and greet each other with much enthusiasm. They seem to be too formal with one another to be even called a family.

She wanted to ask Ji Hoon about it but she stopped herself as she might be prying too much into his private life. Ji Hoon, though, noticed that she has been wandering off with her thoughts again.

“You’re wondering why we are like this, am I right?”

Eun Hye nodded.

They both returned to the study room. Ji Hoon offered her to sit at the sofa as he sat beside her. There was a moment of silence before Ji Hoon spoke about his family. He never really shared much about his family, except to his friends, and Eun Hye was an exception. He took advantage of the softer side of her that she is showing right now, and took it as an opportunity to open up to her. She seems to be soft when she’s shy. He thought.

“You see, my mother… the one you saw.” He hesitated but Eun Hye listened intently. “She’s just my step-mother.”

Eun Hye gasped upon hearing this and instinctively reached over his shoulder to comfort him.

“My real mother died in a work-related accident when I was eleven, and my father remarried three years after.” He sighed. “I was never really close with my father. I even became a rebel at that time because he never asked for my consent about remarrying, but my step-mom did her best to make me like her by giving me everything I wanted… even until now. That’s probably the reason why you thought I was a spoiled brat.” He chuckled.

Eun Hye laughed and urged him to continue.

“It was my noona who helped me go through all of these, and encouraged me to give my step-mom a chance.”

“Aiee~! You have a noona?” Eun Hye cut him short.

Ji Hoon smiled at her. “Yes. But now that she’s married, she had to leave me too and live with her husband in America.” And now I’m all alone, I hope you don’t leave me too.

Eun Hye did not realize that she was already hugging Ji Hoon. She was surprised and was about to pull away when Ji Hoon held her closer, not wanting to let her go. She pitied him for everything that he has been through and decided to give comfort to him as much as she can.

Ji Hoon savored each second that they were hugging each other. He liked the way her warm body felt against his as it gave him much comfort. I didn’t know Tommy had such a soft spot too.  He smiled. He didn’t want to let go, but sooner or later, he will have to or else she might see through him.

Eun Hye pulled away again and this time, he let go too. Ji Hoon was about to head to the computer when he heard Eun Hye yawn from behind him.

“Are you sleepy already?” He turned around and faced her. “We can continue this tomorrow if you’re too tired to work now.”

“Oh, no. It’s alright. I can continue for an hour or so.”

Somehow Ji Hoon saw differently as he saw her eyes falling slowly. “Aish, don’t be stubborn. Let’s go to noona’s room so you could rest. I’ll just wake you up early so we can get to school before your first class.”

Ji Hoon held her by her shoulders and directed her on where to go.

“Ji Hoon, you’re acting way too nice to me, you know?” Eun Hye told him as she yawned once more.

He laughed.

“Yah, you’re still teasing me, aren’t you?” Eun Hye asked again seemingly wanting to be answered. “You’re actions—they’re odd. At times you are kind, and then you suddenly become mean again.”

“My actions…” He paused for a while. “My actions can be as deceiving as my looks.”

Eun Hye couldn’t and didn’t have enough strength to comprehend what he said as she was already too sleepy. All she could do was laugh at him. “Okay, if you say so.”

Once they reached his noona’s room, Eun Hye ran for the bed, took off her jacket and fell asleep almost immediately. He went to her, and made sure that she was already asleep. He slowly drew his face near hers, his hand tracing the soft curve of her face. Gently, he kissed her on the cheeks, tucked her in, and wished her a good night before finally leaving the room.

He shut the door behind him and went to the study room to continue writing his part.

Once he was done, he went back to his noona’s room to check on Eun Hye. He opened the door and peeked through the little opening. He saw her peacefully sleeping on the bed, and this brought a huge smile on his face. “You are so pretty even when you’re asleep.” He closed the door and leaned on it.

“Yah, Tom—Eun Hye, what have you done to me?” He softly told himself and smiled. 

CHAPTER VII

Ji Hoon patiently waited outside Eun Hye’s classroom when Ji-Ahn tapped him on his shoulder.

“Hey!”

“Ji-Ahn… What brings you here?” Ji Hoon asked.

“Oh, I just wanted to check on Eun Hye but I guess I don’t need to anymore, since you’re here anyways.” Ji-Ahn paused for a moment. She was struggling whether to ask him something about him and Eun Hye, but then she decided to ask it. “Do you like Eun Hye?”

The question started Ji Hoon. He never imagined someone would ask him that. Was I too obvious? He couldn’t answer the question, much less utter a word. He tried to avoid Ji-Ahn’s gaze because his blushing cheeks were becoming too evident.

Ji-Ahn noticed that Ji Hoon was becoming too uncomfortable with the question. She also saw that he’s blushing, even though he tried to hide it.

“So, you do like her then, huh?” Ji-Ahn responded as if to answer her own question. “I have to go now. Go enjoy your little date with my best friend, arasseo.” She patted Ji Hoon’s shoulder and left.

What was that for? Ji Hoon thought.

Another person tapped Ji Hoon’s shoulders again. This time, he was surprised thinking that it might be Eun Hye’s best friend again. He sighed when he saw that it was Eun Hye.

“Ready to go?” Ji Hoon asked.

“You seem to be shocked to see me or something. Anything wrong?” Eun Hye responded when she noticed that Ji Hoon was a little surprised.

“Ani. Don’t worry about it.”

“I didn’t say I was worried. Aish.”  Eun Hye crossed her arms and turned her back against him.

Ji Hoon laughed at Eun Hye’s response.

Ji Hoon grabbed Eun Hye’s hand as they both silently walked to the parking lot where Ji Hoon’s car was. She was quite uncomfortable at the fact that his hand was on hers, so she shook it off.

When they were there, Ji Hoon opened the door for Eun Hye and politely offered her the seat. He made sure that Eun Hye was comfortable in her seat. He got in the car, started it, and began driving to his house.

The ride was also as quiet as the walk. Neither of them spoke during the first few minutes until Ji Hoon asked if she would like to listen to some music. Eun Hye nodded and Ji Hoon turned the radio on.

Eun Hye stared out the window and pondered about Ji Hoon’s odd behavior lately. He hasn’t been teasing her as much as before, nor was he trying to make her life a living hell. Instead, he has been acting extremely nice to her these past few days. She has been trying to think of an answer, and yet she couldn’t come up with any possible reason behind his kindness.

“Ji Hoon.”

“Yes?” Ji Hoon said while fixing his gaze at the road.

“Why are you acting this way?” Eun Hye asked curiously.

Ji Hoon was taken aback. He didn’t think Eun Hye would be so bold enough to ask him about that, nor did he think that Eun Hye would be too naïve not to notice what and why he is doing these things for her. But he could not let her know how he feels towards her… He just doesn’t have enough courage to do so. 

“What do you mean by that?” He asked as if he didn’t know what she was talking about. “Am I doing something wrong?”

“Well, you’ve been… too kind these past few days.”

“Is there something wrong with that?” Eun Hye, I… His thoughts were cut short.

“Well… no. It’s just that… it’s bothering me. You being like this. It’s not like you.” She said, trying to form coherent sentences.

Ji Hoon smiled when he heard this. He didn’t answer Eun Hye and continued driving instead.

Soon enough they reached Ji Hoon’s home. Both Ji Hoon and Eun Hye enjoyed listening to the music that they didn’t notice the time anymore. It seemed like a quick ride although it actually took them an hour to get there.

Ji Hoon parked the car and faced Eun Hye before she could get out of the car. “I guess I should continue being kind to you then. It seems that you get really bothered with it.” He let out a laugh, went out the car, and rushed to Eun Hye to open her door. “If it meant that my kindness would irritate you, I would continue doing it.” He then smiled and waited for her to get out.

Gosh, he is so unpredictable. Eun Hye thought. I wonder what he’s up to.

Ji Hoon was thinking as they entered his house. I really want to tell you Eun Hye… tell you how I feel. But I am such a coward. I’d rather have it this way. At least I get to treat you like a princess without you suspecting anything. He sighed knowing that Eun Hye will never think of his actions as his way of showing his love for her.

CHAPTER VI

Meanwhile, Eun Hye was on her way to meet up with Ji-Ahn before they head for their first class. She couldn’t help but think about what happened earlier when she passed by Ji Hoon and his friends. He stared at her with such intensity that it could’ve melted her right there and then. The thought of him seeing her in the attire Ji-Ahn told her to wear creeped her out, but another part of her was happy because the stare he gave her could’ve been because he thinks she is pretty in the outfit… and that made her proud, in a way.

She was caught deep in her thoughts that she didn’t notice that she just passed by her best friend.

Ji-Ahn ran after Eun Hye and stopped her in her tracks. “Hey, what have you been thinking about? You’ve been wearing that smile for quite some time already… You didn’t even notice me.” Ji-Ahn pouted.

“Ah? Oh nothing… Sorry I was lost in thought.” Eun Hye replied still thinking about earlier.

“Yah, what is it? You still seem to be lost in your own little world? Care to tell me what happened?”

“Aniyo, it’s nothing. Come let’s head for our class. You might get late again.” Eun Hye dismissed the topic and grabbed her friend. 

Their first class ended pretty quickly. Before they knew it, they were already heading for the class they both shared for the day. The both entered the classroom and went to their seat.

Eun Hye was blushing with the fact that Ji Hoon is seated beside her again. She forgot that she also shared this class with him. She tried to shake off the nervousness that has been eating her up since class started, and decided to concentrate on the lecture instead.

“I’ll go fetch you later after your last class, okay?” Ji Hoon whispered to Eun Hye.

She only nodded and returned her attention to the lecture. She couldn’t bear seeing Ji Hoon for fear that she might become obvious with what she’s feeling. Add to that the fact that she’s becoming to grow uncomfortable wearing a mini-skirt.

When the class ended, Eun Hye immediately stood up and walked towards the door.

“Tomm--Eun Hye!” Ji Hoon shouted.

“Yes?” Eun Hye turned around and faced Ji Hoon’s direction.

“I’ll pick you up later. Wait for me.” Ji Hoon gave him a sweet smile for the very first time since they met.

Eun Hye blushed when she saw that sweet smile for the very first time. “Arasseo.” She quickly turned around to hide her face, and walked to her last class for the day.

Many of their classmates witnessed this and grew suspicious of the two of them. They both noticed the change in Eun Hye’s appearance, and in Ji Hoon’s demeanor. They unanimously came to agree that there is something going on with the two of them. 

CHAPTER V

Ji Hoon arrived in school early to catch up with his old buddies. Ever since the project was given, he spent most of his time working on it with Eun Hye. He parked his car in the parking lot and went to a small pavilion beside the basketball court.

His three friends, Jeong Hoon, Soo Yoon and Sun Ki waved at him and motioned him to walk faster.

Sun Ki hit him on the shoulders and hugged him. “Ji Hoon! Where have you been these past few weeks?”

“Yes, Ji Hoon. I tried calling you but they always told me that you’re busy.” Jeong Hoon added.

Soo Yoon bursted out a laugh. He pulled Ji Hoon to his side and placed his arm over his shoulder. “Ji Hoon has been busy with a girl lately.” He gave Ji Hoon a mischievous wink.

“Yah. Stop it. I’ve only been working on a project… Actually, I’m glad it’s going to be over soon.” He replies defensively.

“Glad? Or are you?” Soo Yoon seems to know something and is hinting it to the others.

Ji Hoon hit Soo Yoon hard in the back to keep him from saying more. “Of course I’m glad!”

“Oi, what is this? Are you guys hiding something from us?” Sun Ki sensed what Soo Yoon was trying to hint him.

“Aniyo!” Ji Hoon protested.

“Aish, so defensive.” Sun Ki grabbed Soo Yoon and told him to whisper whatever it was in his ear but Ji Hoon kept giving Soo Yoon deadly glares. “Don’t mind him, just tell me.”

Jeong Hoon had been quiet all the while, enjoying the amusing discussion as it unfolds before his eyes. He gave Ji Hoon a smirk and signaled him to tell them. Soo Yoon couldn’t contain himself and finally blurted the secret between him and Ji Hoon.

“I think our Ji Hoon here is finally in love.”

“Chinchayo?” Jeong Hoon replied in shock.

“Yah, why didn’t you tell us?” Sun Ki added. ”Who’s the lucky girl? Is she pretty?”

Ji Hoon couldn’t find it in himself to answer the questions his friends were throwing at him. Although he has a lot women chasing after him, he never really took interest in any of them. It was not because he didn’t like them, rather it was because he is too shy when it comes to love. All along, his arrogant and mean attitude is just a defense mechanism to hide his weakness from everybody.

By this time Ji Hoon’s cheeks are reddish because of embarrassment.

“Okay, okay. Stop it, guys… You know Ji Hoon is sensitive about these things.” Jeong Hoon interrupted, and chuckled at the thought that the boastful and arrogant Ji Hoon can be sensitive at times.

The four buddies continued to chatter in the pavilion when somebody tapped Ji Hoon on the shoulders.

“Hey, don’t forget that we still have to write our paper later, arasseo?” Eun Hye stated in a demanding voice.

Ji Hoon couldn’t utter anything in reply. He just sat there staring at her for a very long time. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Right before his eyes is the girl he hated so much, looking very much like a beautiful lady.

Eun Hye snapped her fingers in front of his face. “Ibwa! Are you listening to me?”

“Yah Ji Hoon, stop staring. You’re gonna be too obvious.” Jeong Hoon quietly told Ji Hoon.

“Obvious? In what?” Eun Hye demanded for an answer when she over-heard what Jeong Hoon said.

Ji Hoon snapped back to his senses. “Ahh. Aniyo… Arasseo, will meet up with you later after class then.”

Upon hearing this Eun Hye turned and headed for her first class.

“So, is she the one?” Sun Ki nudged Ji Hoon’s shoulders.

“What do you mean by that?” Ji Hoon asked pretending not to know what he is being asked.

“You fancy her don’t you?”

Jeong Hoon slapped Sun Ki’s arms and signaled him to stop.

“Arasseo… I’ll stop.”

Ji Hoon had been staring blankly at a wall for quite some time now, until he finally spoke up.

“Fine, I admit. I like her. I don’t really know why… of all girls, why her? But I like her. And seeing her so pretty right now, when she isn’t usually like that makes me like her more. Happy?”

“Maybe she likes you too? You know, she wasn’t like that when you two first met.” Soo Yoon was trying to remember the day Eun Hye bumped into them. “She was more boyish back then.”

“You think so? Do you really think she likes me?” Ji Hoon asked enthusiastically. He rarely shows this side of himself. His friends are the only people who get to witness an enthusiastic Ji Hoon.

“I don’t know. Perhaps?”

“Why don’t you try being nice to her and stop being so arrogant. Maybe she’ll fall for you eventually?” Jeong Hoon advised him.

Ji Hoon smiled at the thought of him being with Eun Hye. He never imagined himself actually feeling happy with the thought of just being with her. He couldn’t fully comprehend what it is he is feeling right now, but one thing’s for sure, he is happy.