xquasarx

Last Friends

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Fri, 09 May 2008 06:32:26 +0800

From L-R: Eri, Takeru, Ruka, Michiru and Sousuke

Last friends is a spring drama currently being aired in Japan. It airs on Fuji TV every Thursdays at 10 pm (Japanese time), and is currently on the 5th episode. The main cast members are (I'm using the last name, first name format):

Nagasawa Masami as Aida Michiru (Yoshida Rei in Proposal Daisakusen)
Ueno Juri as Kishimoto Ruka (Noda Megumi in Nodame Cantabile)
Eita as Mizushima Takeru (Mine Ryuutaro in Nodame Cantabile)
Mizukawa Asami as Takigawa Eri (Miki Kiyora in Nodame Cantabile)
Nishikido Ryo as Oikawa Sousuke (Member of J.E. groups: NewS & Kanjani 8)

The opening song of the drama is "Prisoner of Love" by Utada Hikaru. The lyrics is very suggestive and taking a good look at it would be a very good idea. Lyrics in Kanji, Romaji and English here. :)

Synopsis of the drama here. Official site here. You can watch it here. (Though I'd suggest downloading it here as a better option. Kioku ones are the English subbed ones.) :)

Last Friends Opening Scene

About the promotional banner and the opening scene:

As you can see, these are the five main characters from the show, and they are linked to each other by red strings. It is believed that there exists people destined for each other and they are often believed to be "linked" by the red string of fate. More than that belief, the strings symbolize how each one is connected to one another and what kind of relationship they actually have in the drama, and this can be seen in how the strings are wrapped around the wrists of each person (and body for Michiru's case).

Many more symbolisms can be pointed out from this banner alone such as the way they are lying down, and why Takeru is the only one with his eyes open. As the drama progresses, more and more of these symbolisms come to light as we get a deeper understanding of the story and the people in it.

It can also be noted that this pattern is entirely different from the one being shown in the opening scene of the actual drama. Their positions, the way strings are wrapped around them, and even their clothes differ by just a slight amount. These, too, hold deeper meanings, to be unraveled within the show.

Similar to the drama's banner, the opening scene holds many clues about the drama. Some notable ones are:

Why everyone is walking in the beginning, while only Sousuke stands still.
The key English words: Love, Liberation, Agony, Solitude and Contradiction.
Why everyone walks towards the viewer in the end, while Sousuke walks the opposite direction.
How each member interacts with one another in the short snippets shown.
Why everyone seems to be wearing pure white, while Sousuke has a black neck tie. (But if you would look closely, Takeru's actually wearing a black belt.)
The key symbolisms present throughout the show: cups/mugs, keys and mirrors.

Just a little bit of info about each character:

Michiru, a hairstylist who was brought up in a broken family, and only has a no-good mother left with her, decides to live with her boyfriend, Sousuke, who works for the government in the child welfare division, only to find out that she'll be a victim of DV (or domestic violence).

Ruka is a potentially great motocross racer and long-time friend of Michiru, who, upon seeing her after four years, begins to relive feelings from the past and uses these to protect her from the abusive Sousuke.

Takeru, a friend and eventually house-mate of Eri, is a hair and make-up stylist by day and bartender at night. because of his gentleness and sensitivity--generally feminine traits--many mistake him for a gay person--a false assumption many people around him have.

Eri is a very cheerful flight attendant who, though extremely friendly and affable, experiences extreme loneliness within herself. She lives with Ruka in what they call, a share house.

Sousuke... I have yet to know him. Basically, he works for the government, inspecting houses everyday to see if there is any form of child abuse present. But, as stated in Michiru's info, he tends to become very possessive and often commits DV.

My take on each character:

MICHIRU
She is a person who has never felt love in her life. Her mother is a drunkard and doesn't care a bit about her daughter unless she (Michiru) gives her money; her father left them way back to escape from debt, and was also quite abusive; and her workplace, though she loves being a hairstylist, the fact that she's bullied there takes a toll on her. When Sousuke starts badly abusing her and setting up irrational prohibitions (such as getting home at a set time and not allowing her to cut men's hair), she tries her best to endure everything for his sake.

Even when she decides to stop living with him, she's still subtly bound by Sousuke's strings. In episode five, she said to Takeru, "I want to stop liking Sousuke, but in the end, I can't do so." I think this is because she believes that she is the only person who can truly change Sousuke. They both possess a similar past, and because of that, she believes she can understand Sousuke's loneliness better than anyone else. She understands his anger. She understands why he is hurting her and why he is being strict on her. She sees this as love--the love that she thought she never had in her entire life; something that was right in front of her all this time, but never noticed. That's why no matter how many times she's been abused by Sousuke, even nearly raped by him, she still chose to be with his side because she knows how lonely Sousuke will get if she left him; the same loneliness she is feeling because of the traumatic past she has had.

But because her eyes only saw sousuke, the lonely person who is similar to her, she neglected to look around her and realize that there are actually a lot of people caring for her. She never saw the real reason of Ruka's earnest attempt of protecting her from the same past she's endured, and instead saw the ruka who was always happy with her family, which she truly envied. Ruka, for her, is someone who has always been there, always been supportive of her and nothing more. Since it has always been that way since high school, she never thought of it as anything more than friendship. She only barely saw the earnest attempt of Eri, Ogurin and especially Takeru, to ease her loneliness by always understanding her and putting her needs ahead of their own.

She is ultimately lonely and this can be seen in what she says. When she got to know Takeru, the first thing she asked him was if he had a nice family. "If a person can make such a good coffee and tea, then he must have come from a good family." When they were in Ruka's house, she truly felt happy and ended up telling Ruka that she has such a nice family. Since she's been neglected as a child, she looks for someone who can be devoted to her and her alone. Among the five... six of them, only Sousuke truly satisfies that. Ruka also satisfies that, but Michiru thinks that she's not that special to ruka because Ruka has her hands full with other things such as motocross.

But aside from that, she just wants to be loved truly by someone. And for her, the only way to achieve this is to have a family of her own. Though she never expressed it bluntly, whenever she sees a good person, she thinks of a happy family, and with this, I assume that she has been longing for a family of her own--which is happy and good. She understands that this is also what Sousuke probably needs in order for him to stop being violent, and so she insists being with him no matter what the odds are.

In her weak facade, you will see a person who earnestly tries to love someone. Unfortunately she's been loving, not the wrong person, but someone who cannot reciprocate her love well enough for others, who truly care for her, to be at ease. Add to that the fact that Ruka has been there with her all this time, through thick and thin, and yet she is oblivious of how Ruka truly feels towards her. She can be brutally selfish at times. What's worse is that she, herself, doesn't notice her own selfishness and the fact that this is hurting other people.

She can be likened to an innocent child looking for a favorable attention from someone she thinks cares about her.

to be continued later...

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the irony of losing (to love)

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 08:38:41 +0800

a feeling of asphyxiation grows within you.
sweat dropping, eyes shifting, palms clasping
        uncertainty.
as IT draws nearer and nearer
to you. to stay with you. to own you.
        panic!
and you struggle to escape IT.
threaten IT? bribe IT away? run away from IT?
      helplessness.
until you realize you are no match against IT. (you never were)
and you succumb to it. you accept it. you own it as your own.
      defeat.
and yet...
and yet in the end, what's gained is
      happiness.

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dig in deep to see better

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 08:38:03 +0800

because for every action
there's a hidden motive.
for every motive a will...
for every ounce of will an emotion
-- that fuels the initiative
and motivates for the sake of
the motive.
so are acts of kindness, goodwill,
hatred, despair
as they are among the myriad of actions
a person can do for a myriad of motives
with an indefinite amount of will;
but for an emotion only one and precise.

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In His Arms: Chapter 19

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 22:21:44 +0800

CHAPTER XIX

They all had a late breakfast the next day. Most of the boys had a lingering hang-over from all the drinking they did the night before. Ji Hoon was the last one to join them at the table. He went to the table and sat beside Eun Hye.

“Hey there, lover boy!” Soo Yoon greeted him. “Looks like you are still as love struck as you were last night.” He said noticing the smile on Ji Hoon’s face.

“Huh? What do you mean by that?” Ji Hoon said pretending not to know.

“I like you… A LOT!” Suk Jin said, imitating him.

“Huh?” He said feigning a puzzled look. He suddenly looked down. “But it is true.” He said, feeling a bit embarrassed.

“So you remember what you have been saying last night?” Eun Hye asked.

“Of course I do! I wasn’t that drunk.” He defensively said. “So you better believe it, princess.”

Eun Hye rolled her eyes and pretended to ignore what he said.

Ji Hoon broke a bit from the bread he was holding and held it near Eun Hye’s face. “Say aah~.”

“Hey, I’m not a ch—!” Eun Hye tried to say but Ji Hoon stuffed her mouth the moment he got a chance.

“It actually feels good to know that you already know how I feel about you.” Ji Hoon sighed dreamily.

“It’s gonna get you more than words to get me.” Eun Hye said, avoiding his eyes.

“I can wait.” Ji Hoon smiled. “I have two years.”

“Look at those two...” Yoo Jin told Jeong Hoon. “They don’t even have to admit it to each other.”

“I know. I’ve never seen Ji Hoon so in love like this.” Jeong Hoon replied.

Yoo Jin playfully slapped him on the arm. “How come you aren’t that sweet to me?” She complained.

“But chagi, you know I love you… don’t you?” He pinched her cheeks.

“But still.” She crossed her arms.

The rest of them ended up laughing at the two couples playfully bickering at each other.

Later that afternoon, everyone ended up doing their own thing—relaxing in the beach, swimming in the pool, reading a book, or just plainly resting and relaxing.

Boredom got to Ji Hoon, and he decided to invite Eun Hye for a walk.

“Want to walk around with me?” He asked Eun Hye, who was lying on a towel at the beach.

“Too lazy.” She replied.

“Come on.” Ji Hoon insisted. “I’m bored.”

“Too tired to walk.” She stubbornly said.

“I’ll carry you.” He said with a smile. “Come on!”

Ji Hoon pulled her up and forced her to stand up. Once he got her up, he immediately carried her.

“Hey, let me down! I can walk on my own!”

“You said you were too tired to walk.” Ji Hoon teased.

“Fine, I’ll walk with you.” She sighed.

They walked slowly on the beach, enjoying the upcoming sunset and the gentle waves hitting their feet. Ji Hoon slowly slid his hand and held Eun Hye’s. Eun Hye was shocked by this and tried to remove her hand from his', but Ji Hoon’s grip tightened even more, not allowing her to let go of his hand.

“Why?” Eun Hye asked.

“I just want to hold you. That’s why.” Ji Hoon said looking at her. “Is there anything wrong with that?”

“You know that I can’t give you an answer right away, don’t you?” Eun Hye said, looking down at her feet.

“I told you I can wait.” He reassured her. “I understand. Just let me take care of you, that’s all.”

When they reached the end of the beach, they both sat down on the rocks and watched the sun as it sets below the horizon, still with their hands holding one another’s. Eun Hye rested her head on Ji Hoon’s shoulder, her fingers playing with Ji Hoon’s.

Ji Hoon lovingly kissed her on the head, bringing out a smile from Eun Hye. He rested his hand over her shoulder and brought her closer to him.

“This feels nice.” Eun Hye briefly looked up at him.

Ji Hoon smiled at her.

“Are you sure you can wait?” Eun Hye tightened her grip on his hand.

“Yes.” Ji Hoon said with confidence.

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In His Arms: Chapter 18

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 00:30:16 +0800

CHAPTER XVIII

After two more hours of driving, they all reached a mansion, a few steps away from the beach. It was a grandiose house with a private pool and spacious garden. All of them were at awe when they went inside.

“Hey, how come you never brought us here before?” Ji Hoon asked.

“You never asked me to.” Jeong Hoon replied.

Eun Hye ran to the edge of the pool and sat there, slowly dipping her feet in and enjoying the cool water. Ji Hoon was about to sit beside her when Ji-Ahn beat him to the spot.

“Not now. It’s my turn!” Ji-Ahn told him. “You can have her all you want later.” She shooed Ji Hoon away and turned back to Eun Hye, who was staring at the water.

“You two looked very sweet earlier.” Ji-Ahn started.

Eun Hye looked up in confusion. “What do you mean?”

“I meant you two sleeping together like that… It was sweet.” Ji-Ahn nudged her lightly. “Are you really sure you don’t feel anything for him? If I were you, I would’ve fallen for him already.” She nagged.

“I never said I didn’t feel anything for him.” Eun Hye said without looking at her. Shoot. “What I meant to say was… err.”

“Aha!” Ji-Ahn squealed. “So you do like him!”

“What? I never said that!” Eun Hye immediately went to cover Ji-Ahn’s mouth.

Ji-Ahn took Eun Hye’s hands off her mouth. “Oh really? Come on, don’t be ashamed to admit it. I’m your best friend.” She said giving her a warm smile.

“To be completely honest… I really am unsure of my feelings.” She paused. “He’s been very kind to me and all but I’m afraid. You know what I went through right?”

“Shush. Pain and love are inseparable. Just remember that no matter what happens, I’ll always be here for you. And besides, I’m sure Ji Hoon won’t do anything to hurt you.”

Eun Hye smiled. Ji-Ahn hugged her tightly before heading over to where Suk Jin was.

They all enjoyed the rest of the morning and afternoon basking in the sun and swimming in the pool. They enjoyed playing volleyball and many other sports together.

When evening came, Soo Yoon invited everyone for a drink at the beach. All the guys ended up being drunk, while the three girls happily chatted with each other.

“Yoo Jin-ah, how long have you been with Jeong Hoon?” Ji-Ahn asked her.

“We’ve been together for three years already.” Yoo Jin bashfully, yet proudly replied.

“Wow! He must be a really nice guy, eh? You’re lucky to be with him.” Ji-Ahn continued. “Perhaps you can teach Eun Hye here on how to love.” She laughed and looked at Eun Hye who was quietly watching the waves.

“Why?” Yoo Jin asked. “Soo Yoon wasn’t joking when he said that they aren’t together?” She said pointing at Ji Hoon.

“Nope.” Ji-Ahn said.

“I thought they’re a couple.” She briefly looked at Eun Hye. “A very sweet one at that.”

“But then my friend here’s too shy to admit that she’s falling for him already.”

“Don’t be afraid to love, Eun Hye.” Yoo Jin advised her. “You know, it is such a wonderful feeling to fall in love. I actually envy you because my Jeong Hoon’s not as sweet to me as Ji Hoon is to you. You’re so lucky to have him.”

Eun Hye nodded. “Thanks for the advice.” She smiled.

A few minutes later, the guys joined them.

“Hey, wanna have a drink with us?” Soo Yoon told them.

“Yah! You’re drunk. Aish, Soo Yoon!” Yoo Jin said. “When it comes to making your friends drunk, you’re such an expert.”

Ji Hoon sat beside Eun Hye. He was a little drunk but he was still aware of his actions.

“How many bottles of soju did you drink?” Eun Hye asked him.

He lifted up his hand and raised two fingers in front of her face.

“Next time I’m going to have to watch you when you drink.” Eun Hye sternly told him.

“Yes, my princess.” He said looking at her. “My chagi is so sweet.” He smiled at her.

“There you go with the ‘chagi’ again.” Eun Hye said, although deep inside, she felt nice being called ‘chagi’ by Ji Hoon.

“I like you.” Ji Hoon said out of the blue. “A LOT.”

Eun Hye felt her heart beat faster than before, but she restrained herself. “You’re drunk.” She took the bottle from him and set it aside. “Tell that to me when you’re sober, there’s a higher chance that I might believe you.”

“Why? You don’t believe me when I say I like you?” Ji Hoon asked. “I like you Eun Hye!” He screamed. Everyone looked at him and cheered.

“Not one bit.” She knew what she said was a lie but she didn’t want to believe him too much since he was drunk. “Now let’s go, you’re all drunk.”

She helped Ji Hoon up and they both walked towards the house.

“Aren’t you supposed to be the one taking care of me?” Eun Hye sarcastically commented.

Ji Hoon nodded. “That’s unfair. You need to take care of me too. It isn’t always just you, you know.” He pouted.

“Aren’t I the princess here?” She played along.

“Yes, that’s true.” He said. “And I’m the prince.” He smirked.

Eun Hye laughed at what he said. “You really are drunk.” She said before bringing him to his room and heading to hers. “G’night.”

“Night, princess!” He said before completely entering his room.

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That One Girl

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 01:57:09 +0800

She glanced up at the stage, and admiringly stared at the three handsome guys singing. Their enchanting voices echoing… resounding every note, sharp and flat in her body. Her focus moved to that young man with curly locks, singing his heart out. She immersed herself in her love’s resonating secret serenade.

“I love you.” She softly whispered with eyes still focused on him, as if she knew that her message was heard by him. “I really do.”

At such instant, Nick looked down at the rightmost seat in the front row, making eye contact with the pretty girl staring at him. He sang, “When you look me in the eyes, you tell me that you love me”, with the most passionate voice he can ever sing with, giving away the lines’ truest meaning to the listeners.

He discreetly moved the microphone from his face, quietly mouthing an “I love you” to his precious one. This was not left uncaught by the fans admiring him, though, and they immediately glanced at where Nick's sweet eyes are intently focused.

Soon claps were heard from fans nearby, cheering for them.

She slowly stood up with her eyes still focused at his’. Lost in their own world, Nick slowly walked at the edge of the stage, while she made her way near him. He kneeled and extended his hand to her, giving her his sweetest smile. She took it with much appreciation… For the first time, the world knew who she was, and what she meant to him.

“Please be mine, Goldie.” He softly told her. “Please be…”

The pretty girl breathed deeply as she held onto her breath, waiting to hear more of his lovely voice. She gasped with much surprise, as she tightly held her blanket close to her.

“It was all a dream.” She sighed as she looked down on the sheets with so much disappointment. “At least for a fleeting moment, I felt like it was real.” She said with a soft smile curved on her face.

“Things will be so better later.” She quickly got up and prepared herself for their concert this afternoon.

***

Goldie patiently waited in line as her imagination ran wild, thinking about possible conversation starters when she finally gives them their gift, Nick’s especially. She held the gift with utmost care, looking at it as if it was the most precious thing on earth.

Her eyes abruptly shifted to her left when she heard other fans screaming their hearts out, saying, “We love you Joe, Kevin, Nick!” and “You guys are awesome!”

She keenly looked at Nick, wishing he would do the same, as she remembered the dream she had last night. As if a fairy godmother heard her wish, he looked at her direction, making eye contact with her, and even giving her a knowing smile—hinting her of something to look forward to.

Is love at first sight even real? He thought to himself the moment he took his glance away from her and looked at the other fans, trying to search for that certain glow from the others that existed only in the girl he smiled at a few moments ago.

“This will definitely be a good afternoon!” Goldie told herself and unknowingly smiled.

-End-

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In His Arms: Chapter 17

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 13:27:07 +0800

CHAPTER XVII

Ji-Ahn and Eun Hye woke up early that day and patiently waited for Ji Hoon and his friends to arrive. Ji-Ahn decided to stay over for a week after finding out that the trip is only a week away. Eun Hye prepared breakfast while Ji-Ahn sat on the couch, watching television.

“Where are we going exactly? You’ve never told me.” Ji-Ahn asked.

“Actually, I also don’t know.” She just finished cooking bacon. “All Ji Hoon told me was it was Jeong Hoon’s private resort 3 hours away from here.”

“Oh… That guy must be rich to have a private resort.” Ji-Ahn said, smelling the freshly cooked bacon and eggs set at the table. “That smells delicious!” She stood up and went to the table.

Both Eun Hye and Ji-Ahn ate breakfast while waiting for the guys to pick them up. They already have their bags prepared and set at the living room, and both of them are already dressed up to leave.

“Eun Hye, are you sure there’s nothing going on between you and Ji Hoon?” She asked as frankly as she can.

“Yah!” Eun Hye screamed. “Of course! We’re just friends!”

“Really? Just friends?” Ji-Ahn teased. “Just friends, but Ji Hoon stays and accompanies you here all day, everyday... He practically lives here! I doubt it!”

“He made a promi…” Eun Hye was cut off.

“Yes, I know. A promise to your father, but isn’t it too much for him to do those? Cooks for you, stays with you, watches over you… Come on!” Ji-Ahn rolled her eyes. “Don’t you at least feel anything for him?”

“I…” She started but stopped and thought about it before continuing. “…don’t really know.” She looked down and tried to hide her face in embarrassment.

“Oh my gosh!” Ji-Ahn squealed. “Don’t tell me… You are falling for him already, aren’t you?”

“I don’t know!” Eun Hye said defensively. “I really don’t know, okay. Why don’t you just continue eating? They might be here any minute now.” She stuffed Ji-Ahn’s mouth with a small piece of bread to shut her up.

“Fine. Whatever you say.” Ji-Ahn said after chewing off the bread in her mouth. She looked away and giggled to herself.

True enough, knocks were heard from the door. Eun Hye stood up and opened it.

“Good morning, princess!” Ji Hoon pinched her cheeks and went inside. The rest of the gang followed him inside.

“Yah, why’d you pinch me?” Eun Hye hit him on the arm.

“Because you look cute.” Ji Hoon smiled. “Aren’t you guys ready yet?” He said, sitting on the couch.

“We’re ready but Ji-Ahn’s still eating.”

“Speaking of Ji-Ahn, where is she?” Sun Ki asked.

Eun Hye pointed towards the kitchen, and Sun Ki went there. He tapped Ji-Ahn and smiled, as she looked up at him.

Once they were all set, they all went down the apartment and rode in Jeong Hoon’s van. Jeong Hoon drove, while his girlfriend sat beside him in the passenger seat. Soo Yoon, Ji Hoon and Eun Hye sat at the middle seats, and Suk Jin and Ji-Ahn sat the very back.
It was still quite early in the morning and no one was in the mood to talk that much. Ji Hoon was busy listening to his iPod, Eun Hye was happily and quietly watching the road by the window, while Ji-Ahn and Suk Jin had their own little world. Meanwhile, Soo Yoon and Jeong Hoon’s girlfriend was fast asleep and Jeong Hoon was busy driving.

“Eun Hye, do you want to listen?” Ji Hoon offered her the left earpiece.

Eun Hye was lost in thought at the moment that she didn’t realize Ji Hoon was talking to her.

“Princess.” He snapped his fingers in front of her. “Care to share your thoughts?”

Eun Hye was startled, and immediately looked at him. “Ah. Eh… I wasn’t really thinking of anything in particular.”

“Oh, I see…” He said with doubt in his eyes. “Do you want to listen to some music?” He offered again.

“Sure, I’d love to.” Eun Hye took the earpiece and hummed the song that was being played at the moment.

As soon as he heard her hum, he sang the song.

Jejudo: (http://download.yousendit.com/4342D6987BA2D717)

“Whoa… You have a… lovely voice.” She looked at him and smiled.

“He is a good singer.” Jeong Hoon told Eun Hye. “Isn’t he?”

Eun Hye laughed. “Sure, he is.” She turned back at Ji Hoon. “Can you sing again?”

“Hmm… Later.” He pinched her again.

Eun Hye and Ji Hoon were quietly listening to music, when Eun Hye yawned.

“You want to sleep?” Ji Hoon asked.

“No, it’s okay.” She leaned at the door’s mirror and closed her eyes. Soon enough, she fell asleep. Ji Hoon moved to his left and placed a pillow over his lap. He carefully took Eun Hye’s head and rested it over the pillow on his lap.

He sang once again as he gently stroked her hair. He stared at her beautiful face for a long time; he even had the urge to kiss her but held back. Soon, he also fell asleep with his hand over Eun Hye’s.

The other guys just looked at them and smiled at what they saw. By this time, only Eun Hye and Ji Hoon were asleep.

“Aren’t they sweet?” Jeong Hoon’s girlfriend told him. “They’re together, aren’t they?”
Soo Yoon answered for him. “They always tell us that they’re just friends, but would you call that ‘just friends’?” Soo Yoon said pointing at the two love birds, pretending to have a somewhat disgusted face. “They are too sweet to be just friends.”

Soo Yoon looked at them again, this time with admiration. You are one lucky dude, Ji Hoon. He smiled at Ji Hoon and Eun Hye. Eun Hye was comfortably sleeping on Ji Hoon’s lap; Ji Hoon had one of his hands on her head, while the other held Eun Hye’s hand tightly.

“One lucky dude, indeed.” Soo Yoon told himself.

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In His Arms: Chapter 16

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 14:51:23 +0800

CHAPTER XVI

Ji Hoon came by Eun Hye’s apartment first thing the next morning. He took the spare keys from his pocket and slowly opened the door.

“Eun Hye…” He called out but no one responded.

He checked her room and saw her still sleeping. “You’re a heavy sleeper, aren’t you?” He said under his breath. He decided to prepare breakfast, while waiting for her to wake up. After cooking breakfast, he sat on the couch and watched television to pass the time.

Eun Hye woke up fifteen minutes later and was surprised to see Ji Hoon already in her apartment, early in the morning. “You’re here?”

“Uhhm… Yes, I am. Can’t you see me?” Ji Hoon replied.

“But why?” She asked again.

“Well, I’m just keeping my promise to appa. And besides, didn’t you want to have meals with me?” He said, this time a grin spread out on his face.

“You also prepared breakfast?” She asked, still not satisfied with his answer.

“Yes.”

“Yah… You really are spoiling me too much!” She said as she walked over to the dining table and got ready to eat.

Ji Hoon didn’t answer her. He walked to the table and sat himself in front of Eun Hye. He asked her another question, instead.

“What are you planning to do this summer?” He asked, munching on his piece of bread.

“I might take up an advanced course…” She said.

“Seriously?” Ji Hoon didn’t realize how studious she was until now. “Don’t you want to go on a vacation or something?”

“Who’s there to go with? My parents are half-way around the earth by now, remember?” She sighed.

“Me?” Ji Hoon offered.

“You?”

“Yes, me.” He said once again. “Why don’t we go on a vacation with the guys?”

“How about Ji-Ahn?” She asked, not wanting to be out of place among the boys.
“Of course she’s included. Sun Ki will be there.” He winked at her. “How about it?”

She pretended to think for a while before answering, “Sure! That’d be nice.”

Later in the afternoon, Ji-Ahn came by to visit Eun Hye in her new apartment. She knocked on the door but no one was answering. She knocked again before finally opening the door.

“Whoa…” She was stunned by what she saw. “Well, isn’t that cute?” She said, giggling.

She saw Eun Hye and Ji Hoon sleeping on the couch, Eun Hye’s head resting on Ji Hoon’s shoulders, while Ji Hoon had his arm wrapped around her.

“They must’ve got tired playing…” Ji-Ahn continued as she saw the playstation console and controllers scattered over the floor.

She placed her things down beside the couch before snapping her fingers in front of her two friends. After a few tries, Ji Hoon and Eun Hye eventually woke up. When they realized their position, each one immediately scooted on the couch, towards the opposite side of one another, while Ji-Ahn sat in the middle, laughing.

“You two are really cute!” She said, still laughing.

Eun Hye noticed the big bag at the floor. “Ji-ahn, are you staying here for the night?”

“Ne. You’ve been spending more time with this guy over here. I’m starting to get jealous.” She said, while playfully eyeing Ji Hoon.

“Would you ladies want something to eat? I can cook something if you want.” Ji Hoon tried to change the topic.

“You cook?” Ji-Ahn asked in surprise.

“He’s my official cook from now on.” Eun Hye joked.

“Yah! I’m not your cook. You’re gonna have to cook for me too!” Ji Hoon played along. “Anyway, I’ll go get something to eat.”

As soon as Ji Hoon left, Ji-Ahn immediately interrogated her friend. “What’s he doing here? I thought you’re living alone?”

“I am.” Eun Hye said coolly. “He’s just watching over me.”

“Why? Are you sick or something?” Ji-Ahn asked with a baffled look on her face.

“Aniyo. It’s nothing like that.” She started explaining. “He promised appa that he’d take care of me while I’m away from them.”

Ji-Ahn’s baffled expression immediately went away upon hearing this. She was so giddy that she couldn’t help but scream. Eun Hye was quick to cover her mouth, though.

“Why are you screaming like a giddy school girl?” Eun Hye said with her hands still over Ji-Ahn’s mouth.

Ji-Ahn laughed at her friend’s naivety instead of answering her.

“Yah! Why are you laughing?” Eun Hye was the one screaming now.

“You’re funny. This is gonna be interesting!” She said seemingly talking to herself.

Ji Hoon came back with three bags of chips and a few cans of softdrinks.

“I thought you’re going to cook?” Ji-Ahn asked, eyeing the chips.

“Got lazy.” Ji Hoon shrugged. “Maybe later, for dinner… Ah, Eun Hye and I are planning a trip with the guys, would you like to come? Sun Ki’s gonna be there.” He nudged her teasingly.

“Sure!” She instantly replied.

“So it’s final then?” Eun Hye said. She took her planner from the table beside her and started jotting down notes while mumbling. “Next weekend… for one week.”

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In His Arms: Chapter 15

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 14:50:07 +0800

CHAPTER XV

Eun Hye woke up extra early to help her parents fix everything they needed and send them off. She stood up from her bed and looked at the boxes all around her. The night before, she packed everything she can in her room into boxes and bags, leaving only the bed, her table and dresser.

She quickly stood up and packed the pillows and blanket on her bed into the remaining empty boxes. She went down after washing up, and headed to the dining room to have breakfast only to see Ji Hoon happily chatting with her parents over breakfast.

“Yah! Why are you here so early—no… Why are you here, in the first place? …This early?” Eun Hye was shocked to see him there.

Ji Hoon was about to answer when her father answered. “I called him up. Figured Ji Hoon could help you bring your stuff to your new apartment.”

“Appa~!” Eun Hye replied in embarrassment.

“It’s alright, Eun Hye.” Ji Hoon reassured her. “Why don’t you have breakfast first? Then, we could start moving your things there.” He smiled and patted the seat beside him, urging her to sit beside him.

After eating breakfast, Eun Hye and Ji Hoon went to the airport to send Mr. and Mrs. Yoon off. Once they were there, Eun Hye couldn’t help but cry seeing her parents migrate to another country. She hugged both of them tightly.

“Umma, appa.” Eun Hye said in between sobs. “I’ll miss you very much! Can you not go?”

By this time, her mother was also crying. “Whose decision was it to be left behind?” Mrs. Yoon tried to lighten the mood. “Don’t worry. Two years isn’t a long time. Your appa and I will wait for you in America.” Mrs. Yoon hugged her daughter really tight.

“Be a good girl, Eun Hye. Don’t give Ji Hoon a hard time.” He said with a smile. “And, graduate with honors for us. We’ll see you in two years.” He also hugged Eun Hye before walking towards Ji Hoon, who was watching them from a short distance. “Take care of my daughter for us, Ji Hoon. We’ll contact both of you once in a while.”

“I will Mr. Yoon.” Ji Hoon said.

“Call me appa, Ji Hoon. Appa.” Mr. Yoon smiled.

“Arasseo, appa. I promise to take care of your daughter.”

Both Ji Hoon and Eun Hye waved goodbye before heading back to the car to start transferring things from the house to the apartment. Eun Hye was still sobbing a bit as they both walked.

Ji Hoon hesitated at first but eventually hugged her. “It’s alright. Two years isn’t a long time.”

“I know…” She paused. “But, I’ll miss them so much. From now on, I’ll be doing things on my own… having meals on my own, living on my own.”

“Hush.” Ji Hoon hugged her tighter. “Don’t worry, I’m here. I’ll have meals with you if you want.” He gently pushed her a bit, looked at her, and gave her a smile. “I can even live with you, if you want.” He joked with a smirk on his face.

“You will?” Eun Hye said.

Ji Hoon’s eyes lit. “Sure. I’ll move in with you.”

Eun Hye smacked Ji Hoon’s shoulder with such a force that made him wince in pain. “Yah, as if!”

She was just joking… Aish.

“But it’d be nice to have meals with you. I need the company.” She said with a smile. “Now hurry, we have a lot of things to do.” She grabbed his hands and hurried for the car parked a few meters away.

As soon as they reached the Yoon’s residence, they took out the necessary things and packed them in the moving truck, leaving only a few pieces of furniture which the boarders can use. After which, they drove to Eun Hye’s new home, just a few blocks away from Ji Hoon’s house.

Eun Hye one-by-one placed the boxes inside, while Ji Hoon and the moving people took care of the furniture. Once they finished placing everything inside, Eun Hye fell on the couch and rested her eyes for a few minutes.

Ji Hoon took a look at his watch and saw that it’s already 7 pm. “Eun Hye, are you hungry?”

With her eyes closed, Eun Hye nodded.

“Do you want me to cook dinner for you?” He asked.

“Can you?” Eun Hye replied, somehow questioning his cooking skills.

“Yah, do you think I can’t cook?” He said irritatingly.
Eun Hye nodded and smiled, playfully sticking out her tongue. “Well then, go cook something. I’m really hungry!” She said laughing. “Wake me up when you’re done.” She jokingly commanded.

“Arasseo, my princess.” He played along, bowing down in front of her. After which, he started preparing dinner for the both of them.

After an hour of cooking and preparing, Ji Hoon went to the couch and kneeled beside it, extending his hand to Eun Hye’s face. “Princess…” He said, gently tapping her cheeks. “Princess, wake up. Dinner’s ready.”

Eun Hye slowly opened her eyes and saw Ji Hoon’s face directly in front of hers. She stretched a bit and sat up. Ji Hoon offered his hands, and led her to the dining room.

“Whoa! You prepared all this?” She was amazed by the dishes Ji Hoon prepared for her.

“Your umma did teach me a few tips and tricks.” He smiled. “Let’s eat, shall we… princess?”

She smiled too. “Arasseo.”

Dinner has been quiet, with both Eun Hye and Ji Hoon eating heartily, while stealing glances of each other whenever they can.

After dinner, Eun Hye decided to wash the dishes when Ji Hoon stopped her. “Hey, a princess’ not supposed to be washing dishes.” He took the dishes from her and started washing them.

“I’m no princess, but if you insist.” She gave him the other dishes.

“Why don’t you go sleep instead? You look exhausted even after your quick nap.”

“Are you sure? You’re spoiling me too much.” She asked.

“Ne. Go ahead, princess. Go sleep.” He chuckled and pushed her to go to her bedroom.

“Chalja.” Eun Hye smiled.

Ji Hoon nodded and smiled at her. I wish it would always be like this. He continued washing the dishes.

After washing, he checked on Eun Hye to see if she’s fast asleep. He tucked her in and said his good night before leaving the apartment, making sure the door is well-locked.

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In His Arms: Chapter 14

nobody@vox.com(xquasarx) — Mon, 28 May 2007 12:11:19 +0800

CHAPTER XIV

As soon as the music ended, they returned back to their seats, and resumed chatting with one another.

Eun Hye decided to go outside and have a walk at the hotel’s garden to feel the cool breeze of the night. Unknown to her, Ji Hoon was silently trailing behind her. She sat at one of the chairs near the poolside, while Ji Hoon watched her from a distance.

Eun Hye silently enjoyed gazing at the deep dark blue of the sky, her eyes jumping from one star to another just as thoughts in her mind freely wandered in her head.

It feels so good having a guy friend once again. It’s been so long… The Ji Hoon I know right now is so different from the one I met before this semester. I wish he’d stay the same way. Eun Hye thought. Perhaps one day, I might even fall for him completely. I think I…

Ji Hoon carefully held her shoulders to make his presence known, which surprised Eun Hye. He sat at the chair beside her and enjoyed the sky as she did.

“How’d you know I was here?” Eun Hye asked.

“I just knew.” Ji Hoon bluntly replied.

“Anyway…” Eun Hye said looking at him. “Aren’t the stars lovely?”

Ji Hoon nodded and smiled. “Just like you are tonight.” He said, his eyes never leaving her face.

“You’ve become too kind to me, you know that?” Eun Hye kidded.

“It’s all your fault. You’re making me become like this!” He jokingly accused Eun Hye. “Not that I regret it though.”

“What have I got to do with it? I never did anything to you.” She guiltily asked.

“Shh—!” Ji Hoon hushed her, putting his finger over her lips. “Just enjoy stargazing. There are so many stars out tonight.”

Eun Hye looked at the sky and back at Ji Hoon. “Thank you so much, Ji Hoon.” She told him with utmost sincerity for the very first time.

It was turning out to be a very cold night, and Eun Hye was starting to shiver from the breeze. Ji Hoon noticed this but had no coat with him since he left it at his chair back in the hall.

“Come here.” Ji Hoon subtly commanded.

“Why?” Eun Hye replied with hands wrapped around her to stop her from freezing.

“Just come here.” He told her again.

Eun Hye stood up from her chair and took a step in front of Ji Hoon. Ji Hoon pulled her down and sat her on his lap, with his arms protectively wrapping around her to keep her warm.

“This is why.” He said trying to point out that she is freezing. “Don’t you want to go back inside? They must be looking for us.”

Eun Hye twitched realizing the position they are in right now, but she did not try to stand up since she liked the warmth of Ji Hoon’s body around her.

“Just a few more minutes.” She said as she looked at him. “I want to enjoy the serenity of this place. It's so peaceful as compared to the noisy partying up there.”

When they returned, Soo Yoon, Suk Jin and Ji-Ahn all looked at them with silly grins on their faces.

“Where have you two been?” Suk Jin pried, giving both of them suspicious looks.

“I just took a stroll around the poolside.” Eun Hye replied.

“And I followed her.” Ji Hoon added, putting his arms on her shoulders.

Eun Hye looked at him. “So that’s how you knew where I was!”

Ji Hoon shrugged.

“Okay whatever.” Suk Jin said, no longer interested in hearing more of their short but sweet date. “I’m gonna take Ji-Ahn home tonight. Do you mind?” He asked permission from Ji Hoon.

“No, not at all.” He walked over to Suk Jin and patted his shoulder. “Actually, I guess I have to thank you.” He said with a grin on his face.

“No problem.” He knew Ji Hoon wanted an “alone time” with Eun Hye while he wanted his’ too with Ji-Ahn.

Soon enough the party ended, and everyone said their good-byes to each other.

“Will see you guys on Monday!” Jeong Hoon said “And thanks for coming too, Eun Hye and Ji-Ahn!” He told them.

“No, no. Thank you for inviting us.” Ji-Ahn replied for the both of them.

Ji Hoon and Eun Hye walked back to the parking lot together.

“So…” Eun Hye started. “I guess it’s time for you to start explaining things to me.” She said as she nudged him.

“You haven’t forgotten? Aish.” He said. “Can’t it wait until we get into the car?” He asked.

“We’re almost there.” She said, pointing at Ji Hoon’s black Honda.

Ji Hoon help Eun Hye get in his car, after which, he went in as well. He started the engine and quietly listened at Eun Hye’s impatience—her fingers not so quietly tapping at the door’s handle. Once they started moving, Ji Hoon began to explain everything to her.

“I’ve heard your family is migrating to California.” He calmly said. “And you’re not going with your parents.”

“How’d you know?” Eun Hye asked with a surprised look on her face.

“Your father told me everything.”

“Is my Jr. High life included in that everything?” She pried.

Ji Hoon nodded.

“So…?” Eun Hye asked hinting him to go on.

“He told me you suggested living in an apartment on your own.” He stopped for a moment before continuing, as if to weigh his words. “So, he asked me to take care of you when they leave.”

“He did?” Eun Hye was not quite surprised about this. “Did he, by any chance, tell you anything about you… and… me… and love?” She slowly and carefully said. Knowing her father, she knew he would have somehow tried to hook them up because he wanted to see her happy with a guy again.

Ji Hoon took a quick glance at her and said, “No”, at an instant. “He didn’t mention anything.” He lied. “Why? Do you not, by any chance, want to… fall… in love… with me?” He said slowly and carefully, imitating her.

She immediately looked away and shrugged.

He smiled at her gesture. “I do…”

She instantly looked at him with questioning eyes.

“…Not mind at all…” He continued. “If it’s you. Do you?”

“I do.” Eun Hye immediately replied, as if she was programmed to reply that way. “I mean, I don’t… Aish.” She said in frustration. “You’re confusing me!”

Ji Hoon laughed. “Nevermind.”

“So does that mean you’ll be keeping your eye on me when I start living on my own?” Eun Hye asked.

“Yes.” He said nonchalantly. “Even if you might not like it, you can’t do anything about it since I promised your father.” He explained.

“No, I don’t mind at all.” She said, with a smile unconsciously forming on her face.

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