GUILTY PLEASURE - Epilogue

[Guilty Pleasure – Epilogue]

“Yah! You little rascal~ Come to appa now!” Changmin screamed as he saw the little boy running through the glass door. Seeing Changmin standing with wide open arms, the four year old boy in his kindergarten attire ran excitedly towards Changmin.

Once the little boy reached Changmin’s arms, he scooped him up and throws him off in the air. The boy giggled and made him giggled too.

After a few throws he let him down. “Did you miss me?” Changmin asked while tickling the little boy’s body.

The boy trashed and nodded vigorously trying to get away from his tickling. Changmin then stopped his hands and holds him instead while squatting down to level himself with the boy. 

“Did you behave well today in school?” As expected from almost all the child in the world would answer, the boy nodded ardently with smiles on his face.

Ga In shook her head seeing the scene in front her. She stood up from her desk and walked towards the boy and Changmin. “Did you forget about your omma already?” She too squatted beside Changmin and brushed her son’s hair lovingly.

Seeing his mom, the little boy turned his attention to her and jumped excitedly. “Omma, I had so much fun at school today!”

“Really? What did you learn today? Tell omma—.“ Suddenly she noticed some brown stain at the corner of the little boy’s little mouth.

“What is this?” She squint her eyes with a suspicious look. She rubbed the stain off and smells it; obviously it was chocolate stain. “Did you take chocolate secretly behind my back?” She said in a stern and strict tone. Being caught red-handed, the poor boy quiet down and looked down at his Pororo school shoes.

Suddenly the door flung open and a man in his leather shoes practically ran into the shop. “Jo Jae In! Why did you let go of my hands and run away by yourself?”

Ga In stood up and walked towards the man. “Yeobo, tell me honestly did you give Jae In chocolate?” She asked, pointing fingers at him. “He already ate one this morning…” She frowned.

“Yeobo, how did you—“

Ga In showed the brown stain on her thumb to him. “You forgot to clean his mouth.” Jo Kwon went quiet when he saw the ‘evidence’.

He changed his face expression to the more aegyo one. “Yeobo~ You know I can’t really do anything with Jae In’s persistent aegyo…I told him that he might be scolded but he insisted.”

"He know he's guilty but he still like to do it..." He added.

At the same time, Jae In tried hard not to cry while looking down. Changmin noticed it and quickly picks him up. Immediately being picked up, Jae In burst into tears.

“Yah! You two!” Changmin called out while stroking the boys back in an up and down motion to ease him.

Hearing Jae In’s cry, the parents got flustered and quickly approach their child. Changmin passed the crying boy back to his mother; Ga In took over and quickly hushed him.

“Jae In-ah…omma is not really angry with you…Omma just wants Jae In to be healthy...Remember what happens if you eat too much sweet things? It’s not good for your body..” She said softly while patting Jae in on the back. “We made promise that Jae In can only have one small bar of chocolate every day, remember..?”

On the other hand, the worried dad walked behind his wife to get closer to his son. He brushed his son’s hair and said gently. “You know omma and appa loves Jae In right? Don’t cry my boy..” The innocent boy nodded gently. Seeing this scene, Changmin can’t help but smile. He cannot believe the Ga In she knew years ago now becomes such a virtuous mother.

After a while, the boy has calm down and stopped crying; just like any other child whose tears are like water from cheap tap- easily broken and easily fix with some few ‘repairing skills’.

“Hyung, I am sorry that Jae In just embarrassed himself.” Jo Kwon said, brushing his neck. Ga In bowed apologetically, still hoaxing Jae In in her arms talking sweetly by his ears.

“Yah what do you guys treat me for? I am Jae In’s godfather for goodness sake; do you think I would mind that?” He said with a fake angry tone.

Jo Kwon laughed at Changmin’s antic. “Hyung, do you think my wife can go back now? Today’s Saturday.” He said emphasizing the last word.

“Alright, alright. You guys need your family day right? Ga In-ah leave the rest to me, you can leave now.”

*

“Omma! Appa! We’re back!” Jo Kwon shouted as he entered his parents’ home. Ga In followed behind while holding onto the excited little Jae In. He has always loved visiting his grandparents because he knew he would get a lot of goodies and hugs from there.

“Ahh…! Our little Jae In is here…Come in my boy!” Jo Kwon’s father was so excited and voice was one octave up.

“Harabuji~!!” The little boy squealed while being picked up by the old man. He hugged the old man’s endearingly by his neck.

“I would help omma in the kitchen.” Ga In mouthed to Jo Kwon. He nodded in response and walked to the living room to join his dad and his son.

“Omma, let me help you with the dishes.” Ga In pulled up her sleeves and wet her hands by the sink. “It’s okay, Ga In. You’ll go to the front and join them. You are already so tired from your work; you better take this opportunity to rest. I’ll just do the rest. There’s nothing much left to do.”

Hearing her mother-in-law’s word, she reluctantly leaves the kitchen and joined the three boys in the living room. After a while, she helped to set up the tables and soon they were ready to have dinner.

“Ga In-ah, I’ve prepared this soup specially for you…Do finish it…it’s good for your body.” Jo Kwon’s mother said softly.

Ga In nodded thankfully, “Omma really appreciate that you would always brew some soup especially for me…”

“Omma, you’re biased. Why I don’t get to drink your soup as often as before? You’re seriously so biased to your daughter-in-law.” Jo Kwon’s serious pouting made his dad laugh.

“Yah, Jo Kwon! Are you as tired as Ga In? How can you complain? She has to work, cook for you two, clean the house, wash the clothes and be your wife. Shouldn’t she receive more love and attention from your mum?” His dad chided in a joking manner.

“I do help her out at home~!” Jo Kwon talked back. Hearing that ‘atrocious’ answer, Ga In glared at him, “Are you sure…?”

“Well…only sometimes…” Jo Kwon brushed his neck embarrassingly and drops his gaze to the white porcelain bowl, admitting his childish complain. On the other hand, he’s too glad that his family turns out so well; his parents finally accepted Ga In with open arms and he wished that everything remains like that till forever.

*

Oppa…
How’s Jae In and Ga In unnie doing? I bet Jae In has grown to a big boy now…Did he become more and more mischievous day by day? Now finally you can understand how omoni and abunim had hard time bringing you up…ㅋㅋAnyway I am writing you this letter because…Doo Joon oppa and I’s marriage date has been set at this early June... I hope to receive blessings from oppa and Ga In unnie..I hope to see you and Ga In unnie on our wedding day. I would love to see that little Jae In too…And I am thinking of settling down in Japan for good and ask my parents to move over…Everything is really fine over here, Doo Joon’s oppa is really working hard in his new place and just recently promoted to the manager position...I am doing pretty well too in the Japan branch of our company...If oppa’s family is coming over to Japan for vacation, we would definitely bring you around~ alright, I got to go now…when the invitation card is printed, I would send one over to you and make sure you would try and make it~!!

Love,Young.

“Yeobo, what are you reading?” Ga In approached Jo Kwon who was sitting in the living room on the Sunday morning.

“Oh, this letter is from Young.”

“She wrote again? What did she write this time? Is she getting married?” She asked while occupying space beside him. She then leaned against him to have a good look at the content.

“Yea she said the date has been set. She wants us to go over there around late June. You should discuss your day off with Changmin hyung.”

“I will. And if that’s the case, then you better start planning your schedule with your patients too. Do at least keep yourself free for a week.”

“A week? We’re just going to attend Young’s wedding. Why do you need a week for?” He asked, frowning his forehead.

“You babo~!” Ga In hit Jo Kwon gently on his head. “Since we are in Japan already, we should do some shopping~!!” The mention of shopping in Japan makes Ga In all excited.

“You’re no different from other woman at all.” Jo Kwon mumbled under his breath. He thought she wouldn’t hear him but he was wrong.

“What did you say?”

Suddenly, little Jae In came running towards the two and squeezed into the space between them. “Omma, appa…let’s go to see the animals today~!”

“Our Jae In wants to go to the zoo today?” Ga In asked while snuggling his tummy. “Yeobo, do you want to go?”

Jo Kwon picks him up and was thankful for his sudden appearance and saved him from ‘disaster’. “Why not? Since our Jae In wants to go…let’s go then~!”

*

“Jae In-ah, are you happy today?” Jo Kwon asked while waiting for Ga In to open the door to their apartment. With his hand still held tightly onto Jo Kwon’s he jumped his happiness. “Yea!”

“Do you still remember what animals we saw today?”

“We saw the elephants, the big lion, birds…a-and the monkeys!” Jae In was so excited that he was shouting the names of the animals.

Ga In shook her head and laughed at his son’s antic. Once they were in the house, the little boy started mimicking the lion’s roar.

“Jae In-ah, does that sound like your omma when she’s angry?” Jo Kwon said while checking his wife’s expression. As expected, she glared at him with eagle-like eyes.

Jo Kwon literally shudders at the fierce look. “Jae In-ah, let’s go bath together with appa alright?” He run towards his son and scooped him up in a swift and head to the bathroom. Giggles and laughter of the father and son having a good time together could be heard.

Afterwards they had a simple dinner; jjajangmyun for dinner because Ga In wasn’t feeling too well that day. Jo Kwon noticed it during their zoo outing in the evening but she reassured that she’s just tired from work. She noticed that she’s easily tired out these few days but thought that she’s just too stressed from work.

Ga In sat at the edge of the bed, folding some of Jae In’s washed clothes. Jo Kwon sat beside her. “Yeobo…”  He said softly as he put his hand under her chin and made her look up at him. "Are you sure you are alright?"

“Don’t worry…I am just tired from work…” She said with a smile. She got up and put away their son’s clothes and got under the covers on their bed.

"I love you baby…” Jo Kwon said with a grin as he got under the covers next to her and kissed her softly on her forehead. Then he brought one of his hands to her waist.

"I love you too baby but this is not gonna happen tonight." She said in a whisper and smiled. "I'm feeling okay, but not in the mood."

"You rarely decline me…Something is really wrong with you yeobo…" He said as he rested his head on the pillow and looked down at her with a worried look.

"I told you I am alright..." She answered with a yawn. Suddenly a thought struck Jo Kwon’s mind and he jolted up from the bed. “Ohyea yeobo, I didn’t see you having your period lately…could it be...?”

*****END*****

GUILTY PLEASURE - Chapter 20 (Finale?)

[Guilty Pleasure – Chapter 20 (Finale?)]

“My darling baby… Are you awake?” Jo Kwon talked on the phone as he used his other free hand to flip through the newspaper. It was only 8 in the morning and still an hour to go before Ga In’s work starts at 9. It was just like any other day where Jo Kwon would call just to wake her up from bed.

He waited for a while and instead of a reply, all he heard was just breathing noise of the owner phone. Although those were just random noises, it was enough to make him smile.

“Hey sleepyhead, it’s time for work…Get up and have your breakfast.” Jo Kwon tried again in attempt to wake her up.

“I slept very late yesterday…let me sleep a little more...” She murmured.

“I thought you fell asleep after talking to me on the phone? What did you do till late night yesterday?” He asked, darting his eyes through the big titles on the paper with smiles on his face. Anybody can clearly see how blissful he is right now.

“I stayed up a bit…there is some project… I had to look through…” Her voice trailed off as she falls into slumber of sleep.

“Arasso...Then you better sleep more. I shan’t disturb you then. Love you.”

Just then, his mother came out of the kitchen bringing the family’s breakfast to the table. He hung up the phone and stood up quickly to help his mother set the table.

“Is that Ga In-sshi on the phone just now?” She asked suddenly.

Jo Kwon was taken aback by his mum’s question. From the starting of their relationship, he has been very careful whenever he mentioned Ga In’s name in front of his parents. Although his mother is the one who agreed to cancel off the marriage between Lizzy and him, but he still noticed the indifferent in her tone whenever he speaks about Ga In. His father might never breathe anything about it but he could sense that he dislike the idea of Jo Kwon staying over at her house not once but on a frequent basis.

“Yea… it’s her.” Jo Kwon answered while checking on her mum’s facial expression.

“Do you want to ask her to come over this weekend for a simple dinner?”

*

He parked his car outside Perfect Match and got down carrying a breakfast set he bought from a nearby restaurant. He peered through the big glass door and as expected, Ga In hasn’t arrived to work. As it was already opened, he pushed through the glass door and stepped in.

Just as he placed the breakfast on Ga In’s desk, Changmin comes out from the pantry with a cup in his hand.

“Welco— Oh, it’s you, Jo Kwon-ssi.”

Jo Kwon smiled and turn to the food on the table, “Yea…I just brought some breakfast for Ga In...”

Changmin walked nearer to him and took a sip of coffee, “Although I don’t agree the way you handled your past relationship, I am thankful to you for loving Ga In this much.”

Jo Kwon’s effort in loving Ga In for the past 4 months was clearly seen by the people around them. Changmin for instance can easily be the witness of Jo Kwon’s care of Ga In. Every now and then, just from his seat, he would always see Jo Kwon sitting on the couch, sometimes but rarely falls asleep on the couch just to waits for her to finish her stuff before going home together, buying her breakfast, and even seen major changes in Ga In.

He had never seen her so happy before, sometimes boasting about how sweet Jo Kwon was to her that even he had to stop her from doing so; how Jo Kwon would plan simple events to make her day, how he would make up to her when he’s occupied on their date… The list never ends. At first he was worried that the relationship would affect Ga In’s performance in work but instead she creates more excellent result.

Jo Kwon nodded blankly and smiled. “Changmin-ssi, we are grateful that you approve of our relationship. Ga In has always speaks well of you, saying how understanding you are...”

“Her happiness is more important. There’s no point of disapproving.” He smiled, sipping another mouthful of coffee. Both man stood there getting a little awkward.

“Do you mind if I call you hyung?” Jo Kwon asked abruptly. “I have always yearned for a big brother like you since I was small…”

A smile spread across Changmin’s face, happy to hear his request. “Yah, Kwon-ah…I am afraid your patients might be waiting…” He said while throwing his eyes towards the clock on the wall.

“Alright hyung. I’ll get going then.”

*

“Darling…are you going to tell me what’s bothering you?” She asked while caressing the back of his hand. Ga In knew something was bothering him so much; the moment he fetched her for dinner she could sense his weighing tone.

Jo Kwon heard her question and tried his best to focus on the wheel with his other hand. He knew that Ga In already sense something was bothering him during dinner time but decided not to probe until now.

 “Ga In-ah…” He hesitated. “My parents want to see you.”

“If you are not ready to meet them, I would just go tell my parents that you are busy this weekend and you can’t make it…” He quickly added.

Ga In looked up at him and shook her head with a worried look. “I don’t have good impression on them already I don’t want to make things worse by declining this…I don’t want to make things difficult for you too.”

He tightens the grip around her hand squeezing it lightly, “Thank you…for being so understanding…” He took her hand and kisses the back of it.

She forced a smile at his affection but deep down inside her heart she has all kinds of feelings mix together. She’s scared, nervous and clueless about what she is about to face on that day.

*

“Omma, we’re back.” Jo Kwon shouted. He leaded the petite girl confidently into the house to look for his parents. Ga In who’s taking small step behind Jo Kwon felt her heart about to explode from the nervousness.

“Oh…Kwon-ah you are back. And this is….” Jo Kwon’s mum’s eyes quickly falls onto their tightly-hold hands and without a doubt she’s the ‘legendary’ home wrecker aka Jo Kwon’s girlfriend; reasons why he’s not staying at home.

                                           

“Ga In-ssi.”  Jo Kwon finished her mum’s awkward hanging sentence. “And Ga In, this is my mother.” 

“A-annyeonghaseyo…omoni.” Ga In smiled and passes the basket of fruit to his mother. “This is a small gift for omoni and abunim…”

“Aigoo, this is so kind of you…” Mrs. Jo accepted the basket with a big smile on her face.  Then she turned his attention to Jo Kwon. “Kwon-ah your dad’s in the room.”

Ga In felt like a half of a large stone on her heart has fallen off. One is down, another one to go; she thought. Jo Kwon too heaved a sigh of relief mentally at his mum’s positive reaction.

Then he proceed to meet another harder obstacle; his obstinate father. He pulled Ga In closer to him and head to his parents’ room. “Dad, I am back. See who I brought with me.”

Hearing his son’s voice, Mr. Jo looks up from the television and squinted his shortsighted eyes to the person Jo Kwon was talking about.

“Annyeonghaseyo, abunim…I am Ga In.”

The moment Mr. Jo hears the ‘infamous’ name, he cleared his throat showing dissatisfaction. It was obvious that he didn’t like Ga In’s appearance in the house but after his mum’s pleading, he agreed to allow her to come over for dinner. Mr. Jo has always been a good husband, always listening to his wife’s advice.

 He rises from his armchair when he heard his wife calling them for dinner. He walked towards the door without acknowledging Ga In’s greeting and walked out of the room.

Seeing the scene in front of her, Ga In almost burst into tears. She bit her tongue and slapped herself mentally to remain strong just for Jo Kwon.

Its okay...Son Ga In you can do this.

*

“Ga In-ssi…How’s the food? Is everything to your liking?”

“Of course~! I really like omoni’s cooking.”

“Omma, Ga In cooks really well too! Omma you know my favourite stew crab soup? She cooks it really well!” Jo Kwon got a little too excited when talking about his favourite food. He turned to Ga In and said excitedly, “Cha-gi-yah, you should cook that sometime this week…I am craving for it…”

Seeing how his son’s being so mesmerized by this ‘vixen’ once again he cleared his throat; showing his disapproval. Mrs. Jo quickly nudged Mr. Jo, speaking softly. “Yeobo, I thought we have talked about this?” Although she whispered, it was still audible to the duo.

Mrs. Jo turns to them and quickly smiled, “Ah is it? I should really try your cooking sometime. It seems like really good since our Kwonnie likes it so much.”

“Be careful of what she might put inside…” His dad murmured sarcastically under his breath. “I bet this is why our Kwonnie is being mesmerized away by this person…”

“Yah yeobo! Can’t you just keep quiet and eat your food?”  Mrs. Jo slapped her husband lightly on the arm. “Don’t bother about his thoughtless remark. He’s just joking.” Mrs. Jo tried to resolve the atmosphere by passing an awkward laugh.

Jo Kwon’s heart twitched hearing his dad’s offensive words but he just kept quiet. Ga In nodded faintly with a forced smile on her face. Inside her she was very bothered by the rejection of Jo Kwon’s father. “Yea, sure omoni…”

“Hmm…Ga In-ssi…I heard from Kwonnie that you worked as a wedding planner right?”

“Maybe that’s just for a disguise to seduce—” Mr. Jo butted in again with awful remark.

“One more word from you and I am not going to cook for you for anymore!” Mrs. Jo finally flared up at her husband embarrassing behaviour.

Before Jo Kwon can response in his dad’s word, Ga In suddenly jolted up from her chair. “Ah…omoni, abunim…I am sorry, I need the toilet.”

“Ga In-ah! Ga In!”

“What happened to you MR.JO?? Did you forget about what I said this morning? She’s who our son has chosen and loves so we must try to accept her. Why did you have to pour all your displeasures to that poor child alone?”

“Because I’d still prefer our Soo Young (Lizzy)…”

Jo Kwon heaved a sigh. He understands that he cannot easily erased Lizzy off their mind and accepts Ga In immediately. His parents really like Lizzy and has always been treating her like their daughter.

At the same time, Ga In was in the toilet clearing her mind. From the toilet she can hear the commotion in the dining room clearly; another hit to her self-confidence in this relationship. She stared hard into her own reflection in the mirror.

Son Ga In, for Jo Kwon you must endure all that…you can do it…

She wiped away her tears and retouched her make up for a bit before leaving the toilet. As she walked back nervously to the dining table something caught her eye –many photo frames hung up on the corridor’s wall.

She got closer to the photos and those pictures easily shatter all the confidence that she built up before she came. Those were all family photos of Jo Kwon and his parents and another girl; Lizzy.

They look happy. Like a complete family. There were a few other photos of young Jo Kwon and Lizzy in their school uniforms posing happily for the camera. As she walked, she could see Lizzy taking part in most of Jo Kwon’s life. And she is the third party of their relationship.

Maybe I shouldn’t be here after all.

*

Jo Kwon ran after her and pulled her back into his embrace. “Hey baby, I am so sorry that my dad said those things…please don’t go okay? I’ll say sorry on behalf of him.” He said as he brushed her hair under his hand.

“No…it’s not that. I-It’s just that… Changmin oppa called and he said he needed me back to the office.” She lied as she pushed him away slightly.

“You’re lying…” Jo Kwon retorted. “Obviously you are upset about my dad’s word. Otherwise you would not leave the house so quickly.”

“No I am not…I-I just need to take a break…” She pushes him further away and started taking a few steps away.

“What do you mean you want to take a break?”  His words made her stopped her track.

“This is too difficult for me to handle…” She tried to fight off her tears. Luckily, Jo Kwon didn’t see her face because she was back facing him.

“Too difficult for you to handle? Have you thought about me? I was sandwiched between my parents and you. Do you think I felt better? I thought our love could endure this.”  Jo Kwon mentally slapped himself after saying those words. He felt like a bastard for talking in that manner to Ga In.

She turned around hearing those absurd words from him, with face smudged from her tears. “After hearing those hurtful words from your dad and to hear that your dad prefers Lizzy more…A-and those pictures…I just can’t manage…”

“What pictures…?” He paused, trying to link what Ga In is talking about. “You mean the pictures hung up on the wall?”

Ga In looked away, not wanting to look at Jo Kwon in the face.

“Those pictures were taken years ago for goodness sake! You are jealous because of some damn pictures? My body and heart are all yours already aren’t it? What more do you want?”

The blockhead Jo Kwon would never understand the insecurities Ga In felt. Being an ‘ex-offender’ of relationship matter, this has built up insecurities in Ga In’s mind about their relationship. Since he could leave Lizzy a few weeks before their wedding, Jo Kwon now too could easily leave her anytime.

“If you walked around my house and see intimate pictures of me and another guy instead of your picture, how do you feel? Addition with disapproval with my parents do you think you could hold on, without your girlfriend standing by you?” She paused, wiping her tears. “When your dad said those words…did you do anything to protect me?”

Jo Kwon freeze, he couldn’t answer.

She realized she might have over reacted about the matter a bit but she still find the need to reconsider everything.

Maybe I was blinded by your overwhelming love.

“Kwon-ah…I-I just need time to think. Let’s just give ourselves some space and time alright?” 

*

It has been three days since she last heard from him. After the fight that night, she hailed a cab and got home. Jo Kwon didn’t chased after her and that fact still hurt her till now. There wasn’t any message or call from him; just like he has disappeared from her life.

Because of what you said, maybe he’s really reconsidering. You brought this upon yourself.

She regretted so much all the things she has said that night. She knew from the start that if she were to fall in love with Jo Kwon those are few of the things that she has to go through. And she admitted that she might have been over sensitive about the pictures.

She has been skipping work too for the past three days. Changmin knew what happened between the two but didn’t interfere. All he did was to deliver food on time to Ga In knowing that most probably she would be skipping meals.

She lied listlessly in the living room’s couch when suddenly her house door clicked indicating that somebody is opening the door. She looked over and saw Changmin walking in with packages of food in his hand.

“Ga In-ah, time to have your lunch.”

“Oppa…you are here…”

“He didn’t call yet?” He asked.

She obviously heard his question but chose to avoid. “Oppa, what did you bring today?” She said with a plastered smile.

“I brought you some kimbap I made at home…I had mine already so you better finish all these up.” He walked away and sat on the couch.

“Oh yea.” Then he took out something from the backpack. “There was a delivery for you, I just helped you to take it.”

Changmin passed a box and a letter to Ga In. “Who’s this from?” She asked. Changmin shrugged his shoulders. “I don’t see any sender’s name.”

She left the things aside and continued eating. “Aren’t you going to open it?” The curious Changmin asked.

“I’ll see it later.”

“Arasso, well I think I need to get back to Perfect Match already. I hope by tomorrow you can come back to work. Many projects are waiting for you.” Changmin stood up about to leave.

Ga In quickly walked over to Changmin and hugged him around his neck. “Oppa…gumawo. After all, you are the only one I have. Thanks for the care these few days and sorry for not going to work. Tomorrow I would be back to the office with the new Son Ga In.”

“Alright, just finished up the food and get some rest okay? I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

She bided him goodbye and returned to the dining table.  The pretty box and the letter placed at the side caught her attention again.

First she took the letter and outside the letter, it wrote: Please open the box first.

Then she took the box and she opened it as she was told. Inside there was a ring placed nicely in the middle. Immediately she recognized the ring because it was a couple ring they bought together to commemorate their first monthsary together. Her hands wobbled as she took the ring. Tears too start to well up and flew down profusely. Together at the side attached a small message.

I am returning this ring to you….I don’t need this anymore..


She cried harder reading those words. Once she settle down, she wiped away her tears and opened up the letter.

Password? <== to see the letter's content. 

GUITLY PLEASURE - Chapter 19

[Guilty Pleasure – Chapter 19]

Ga In woke up the next morning with the Jo Kwon’s mobile phone ringing loudly; alarm that he had set the night before. She winced and turned her head away, snuggling deeper into Jo Kwon chest pressing her face on his clothed chest. He was quickly aroused by her movement on the bed and he tightens his grips around her waist.

“You’re awake?” He asked with his eyes still shut and his nose buried deep into her hair.

“No, I am still in my dreams.” She muffled through his t-shirt, making him laughed a little.

She pulled back to see better of the man that she’s hugging and he looked as gorgeous as before. “Good morning.” She leaned forward and planted a kiss on his cheek.

“Good morning, sweetheart.” Jo Kwon quickly replied with a smile. Ga In then brushed his fuzzy hair, tangling her fingers into his hair. He has always loves feeling her fingertips in his hair. It feels so warmth, feel so loved.

“You are sure clingy…” Jo Kwon said with an impish look. Ga In looked away embarrassed, wrapping her legs around his legs and clamping Jo Kwon towards her.

“Sorry about that but you’re to blame.” She teased.

Jo Kwon’s eyes widen in amusement. “It’s my fault that you’re clingy when you’re asleep?” He shook his head in disbelief.

“Maybe if you don’t smell so nice after bath, I would be less clingy. But I can’t promise you that either.” She chuckled.  Jo Kwon laughed but suddenly his smile faded.

 “I got to go…”Jo Kwon said while looking at the time on alarm clock situated on the nightstand. Ga In sat up on her bed and turned to her boyfriend, “It’s still early for work isn’t it? Why did you set your alarm so early in the morning? It’s not even 7.” She stretches her arms feeling her body recharged from the sleep.

Jo Kwon followed suit and sat up on the bed but quickly took Ga In in his arms and embraces her from her back. Ga In leans in deeper, pressing every inch of her back against him. It really felt like heaven to her to be able to feel loved every morning he came to stay overnight over at her house.

He whispers gently by her ear, “I know you may not like what you’ll hear later, but I am still going to tell you because I know you would understand me.”

Ga In slapped his arms playfully because his breath was tickling her ear. “What is it…?”

“I am going to the airport later.”

His words froze Ga In’s movements and emotions immediately. She kept quiet not knowing how to respond to his confession.

“Hey… “Jo Kwon released her from the hug and turned her around so that he could see her better. Ga In hangs her head down avoiding Jo Kwon’s look.

“You’re upset are you?” He asked softly. He scooted nearer to her and brought his hands to her face trying to make her face him.

Suddenly, Ga In jolted up and started tickling Jo Kwon all over his body. He giggled and trashed, trying to get away from her fingers. He laughed so much and pinned her down on the bed, hovering above her.

“If you can play with me, means you’re not upset?” He smirked while tracing his fingers on her facial.

Ga In slapped his chest playfully, “Go to the airport now or else you won’t be able to catch up with her.”

Jo Kwon leaned forward and plants a kiss on her forehead before kissing her lips. “Yah!” She hit his chest once more, harder this time.

“Why are you hitting me?” He said pouting while still hovering on top of her.

“Your mouth stinks!” She glared at him and caused him to wince. He understood her meaning and quickly retreated from the bed.

Before stepping into the bathroom, he paused and turned around with a playful smirk on his face, “Wanna join?” He paused. “To help the environment you know.” But instead of having a chance to wash together with Ga In, he earned a smack from the pillow that Ga In threw.

*

“I’ll call you as soon as possible.” He said while getting his coat. “Don’t think so much, there’s nothing to think about anyway.” He confirmed with his sincere gaze.

Ga In nodded slowly. The fact that he had get off work earlier yesterday to wait for her to come home just affirmed her conviction that he wouldn't be turning away from her.

"Be careful on the road," She told him casually; he reluctantly moved his eyes away from her, heading towards the exit of her house.

After seeing Jo Kwon disappear into the corner of the corridor of the apartment, she closed the door behind her. She felt torn in between her feelings. Rational part of her felt that she should believe in Jo Kwon and be calm about the Jo Kwon meeting Lizzy. The paranoid part of her was worried that Jo Kwon might leave her forever.

She shook off her clouded thought and got ready for work instead. She finished up the breakfast that Jo Kwon simply prepared; strawberry jam and cheese toast.

*

Jo Kwon ran around the airport trying to catch a glimpse of Lizzy but to no avail. The night before, Jo Kwon has pleaded with Doo Joon to let him know about Lizzy’s flight schedule because obviously Lizzy’s mother wouldn’t divulge anything to him. Doo Joon reluctantly gave him what he wanted with a condition never to say anything hurtful to Lizzy.

He dialed Lizzy’s number for a lot of times already but clearly Lizzy is not picking up his call. At last, he resorted to calling Doo Joon’s number.

“Hey, Doo Joon… Have you guys left yet?...Where are you guys?” He gulped down his saliva as he talked on the phone panting.

“Oppa.” He heard a familiar voice coming from his behind. He quickly turned to the voice and was greeted by Lizzy standing with her luggage and Doo Joon by her side.

“Young-ah...” Jo Kwon stepped forward and took her hands. In response, Doo Joon quickly stepped up, “Don’t touch her.” He said sternly with burning fire in his eyes. Lizzy politely retreat her hands from his grip.

“I am sorry, Doo Joon. But this is between Young and me. Please excuse us, can you?” Jo Kwon asked sincerely all the while looking at Lizzy who’s avoiding his gaze. Lizzy turn to Doo Joon and nodded.

“Doo Joon oppa, can you help me with the luggage first? I’ll come with you later.” She said while connecting her eyes with Doo Joon.

He reluctantly left the two alone and walked away with his own luggage and Lizzy’s. With now only the two of them, Lizzy felt the awkwardness creeping up. The guy standing in front of her suddenly feels very far, so out of reach and feels like they were just acquaintances. Anybody would not believe that these two people were actually still engaged few weeks ago.

“Shall we go there and talk?” Jo Kwon said pointing to the bench near them. Lizzy looked over to the direction and nodded vaguely. They sat down on the bench side by side but were awkwardly far apart.

Jo Kwon has tried all means to know about her flight schedule just to talk to her before she leaves but now standing right in front of her, he became mute suddenly. His mind was blank and he didn’t know what the right word to talk to her. The duo sat there for a good five minutes before Lizzy broke the silence.

 “Oppa, what do you want to say?”

 “I am glad that you still called me oppa.” He started off in his usual soft voice. “I really felt like a jerk. I messed up with your life and I…left you hanging…I am really sorry.”

“Oppa, let’s stop talking about this already…It’s a tragedy for our relationship but let’s put it behind us, we need to look forward not backward…”

Jo Kwon nodded agreeing with what Lizzy said. What has done cannot be undone. A turned cold love has a very slim chance in making it warm again. The best thing is to leave it as it is; break up well.  

He quickly changed topic. “Which part of Japan you would be staying? Do you have friends over there?  Do you know any Japanese?” He took the paper bag he prepared and passed it to her.

“Here take this with you.” Lizzy opened the paper bag and took out the content. It was a book; “Japanese language for Dummies.”

Lizzy chuckled at the book title. Jo Kwon felt a little relieved seeing her smile. “I think you might need this in Japan. It might be a little tough staying there if you don’t know any. This book teaches all the basics. You’re so smart; you’ll be able to learn them quickly.”

“Gumawo oppa.” Lizzy felt comforted at the fact that Jo Kwon was still concerned for her.

“I just want to say we may not have the fate of becoming husband and wife, but I’ll assure you that I’ll always be your good oppa. Never hesitate to call me.”

“Arasso…”

“Is Doo Joon tagging along too?” Jo Kwon asked suddenly remembering Doo Joon came with what it seems to be his luggage. Lizzy looked up to him hearing Jo Kwon mentioning Doo Joon’s name.

“Doo Joon oppa was concerned about my well-being there so he decided to quit his job and follows me there.”

“He quit his job?” He almost choked on his words. He never really gets to know Doo Joon for a very long time, but he was really surprised at his sacrifice.

That guy must have something for Young. Or else he won’t be making such a sacrifice. Wait, Jo Kwon why are you thinking like this? Shouldn’t you be glad that there’s someone looking after her? He might the Mr. Right for her, you babo.

“Why did I hear my name?” Doo Joon came walking towards them with a package on his hand. He opened the bag and took out a sandwich and passed them to Lizzy.

“I thought you might be hungry, so I bought this. We still have little time before boarding the plane.”

“Thanks oppa. Is the luggage settled?” She asked casually. Doo Joon nodded quickly.

“Doo Joon-ah, can I have a word with you?” Jo Kwon requested suddenly. He turned to Lizzy and smiled, “I’ll return him to you quickly.”

Jo Kwon pulled Doo Joon to a corner where they still can see Lizzy from afar. “What do you want to talk about?” Doo Joon hissed in an uncomfortable tone.

“I know you like Young.” He went straight to his point. He didn’t want to waste his time explaining.

Doo Joon was caught off guard at the sudden accusation; the truth actually. He thought he has always kept his feelings well but didn’t know that it was quickly noticed by Jo Kwon.

“N-no…H-How did you know?” He stammered. He only thought of making his move in pursuing Lizzy’s broken heart once they settled down in Japan. He didn’t want to take advantage of Lizzy’s heartbroken state and jump into the empty space in her heart because he was afraid of being treated as a substitute. He hoped that Lizzy would love him whole heartily one day just like how she has loved Jo Kwon.

“I called it the man’s gut. Whatever…that’s not important anyway. With you around in Japan with her, I feel more at ease. I know I have hurt her deeply and I know you’re a good guy. So I hope you’ll take good care of her.”

“Save that for yourself and your girl. Don’t worry, I would love her hundred times more than you.” He said with sarcasm. “Are you done? If you are, then I got to get back to Lizzy.”

“Please tell her I am leaving already. And, thanks for everything, Doo Joon. Wish you guys all the best.” Before Doo Joon can reply, Jo Kwon had already walked off.  

***

GUILTY PLEASURE - Chapter 18

[Guilty Pleasure – Chapter 18]

“Ga In-ah, am I seeing things?” Changmin brought a project file to Ga In’s desk. Ga In was in her own thoughts when Changmin called her again.

“…Why?”

 “You okay? You seem not yourself today.”

Ga In shook her head lightly. “..I-I was just thinking about something. What is it?”

“I just want to confirm something. Did Mr. Jo and Ms Park just cancel their wedding preparations with us? I thought the wedding is just…two weeks away?” He looked at her with doubtful eyes.

“Yea...” Ga In looked down to her file to avoid his eyes. “It was cancelled in a hurry. Since you are away, I refunded the remaining fund on your behalf. I hope you don’t mind that.”

“No, I am alright with that. But I-I am just shock. Why? Don’t they like our services? Did they employ our rival’s services?”

“No, none of that.” She answered almost immediately.

Changmin frowned in amusement. “Why are you so sure?”

“…B-Because—“

Suddenly her phone rang, which saves her from the explanations. She quickly searched for her phone and smiled when she saw Jo Kwon’s name on the caller ID. Changmin saw the change in her expressions and decided to leave her alone. After making sure she’s alone, she picked up the call.

“Hey I’ll pick you up for lunch later?”

“Aww..I am so sorry dear but I’ve got a few files to look at…” She white lied.

“Really? But I miss you…”

“What about dinner?” She suggested.

“….We’ll order pizza?”

“Sure, and you’ll make the order?”

“Alright. See you tonight and don’t forget to eat your lunch. Love you.”

*

The waiter approached her and Ga In ordered a glass of orange juice. She got herself comfortable and waited for her guest. She felt her heart beating faster as the time ticked nearer to their meeting time.

Moments later, a familiar figure appeared at the restaurant’s entrance. Then she saw her guest walked towards her with a sweet smile on her face.

“I am sorry. It’s the traffic.” She sat down as she put her bag aside.

“It-It’s alright.” She answered timidly in her soft voice. Then she kept quiet not knowing what to say to the guest in front of her.

She opened the menu on the table and her eyes randomly look through it. “You know, Ms. Son Ga In. I haven’t got a chance to really talk to you…”

Lizzy looked up to Ga In. “But I am leaving Korea already.”

Ga In was shocked to hear that from her that she almost choke on her juice.“W-Why are you leaving…so suddenly?”  She felt stupid at asking the question.

The waiter came and took Lizzy’s order. Then she returned her attention to Ga In.

“It seems fated…that I got to leave for my work too. My boss has allocated me to a new branch manager position in Japan…I thought it’s a great opportunity to leave everything here and start everything afresh…”  Lizzy explained with a smile.

Hope you love oppa more than I love him…only then I would force myself to really let go of everything.

Ga In went speechless after hearing the explanations. Her face was rigid and her facial expression says it all; that she never expected Lizzy to make such a decision.

“I am sorry...t-that I—” Ga In blurted out.

“You don’t need to feel sorry.”

Once again, Ga In’s eyes widened at Lizzy’s words. She never thought that she would hear those saints like words from Lizzy.

“D-Don’t you hate me?”

“Honestly, I do initially.” Lizzy took a sip of her coffee.  “But I have been thinking a lot these days, if our love was strong enough, he wouldn’t even waver with your presence.”

Ga In just stood there quietly, listening to Lizzy.

“So I don’t hate you. It’s just so unfortunately, that we fell for the same man and in the end he chose you instead of me. And, shouldn’t I be valuing myself more rather than to cling onto a man who does not love me anymore? You may think that I am crazy, but this is what I have concluded after sorting out my thoughts.”

 Ga In nodded gently as she felt better after hearing what Lizzy said.

“Does Jo Kwon know about it? That you are leaving?”

Lizzy looked away and shook her head slightly. “I don’t intend to let him know until I leave...”

“Why?”

“I don’t want to anything to stop me from going. I don’t wish to see Kwonnie oppa to give me pitiful look, pitying me. I am just…too proud to lose.”

“Then why are you telling me?”

“I-I just hope you could…” She hesitated. “Help me to take care of Kwonnie oppa. He may be a doctor, but sometimes—”

“I will.” Ga In felt kind of weird listening to that, and quickly she changed the topic. “When are you leaving?

“Tomorrow morning.” Lizzy answered quickly.

“So soon?”

“Yea. I wished to settle there earlier to make myself familiar with the surrounding before starting my work.”

 *

Ga In reached her apartment and was pleased to see a see a pair of leather shoe outside by the door. She stepped in to find Jo Kwon sitting comfortable on the couch. Once Jo Kwon saw her entering the house, he stood up and walked over to her.

“Welcome home.” Jo Kwon said with a smile as he leaned down and kissed her. Jo Kwon then moved to stand behind her and massage her shoulder. “Busy at work today?”

 “It was alright. During lunch I met up with Li—“ She paused momentarily. “You’ve bought the pizza?”  She tried her best to cover up her slips of words hoping Jo Kwon didn’t hear her almost mentioning Lizzy’s name.

“Yup. It’s still fresh and hot. Just go and have a quick shower before we nuzzle up together on the couch and watch your favourite movie?” He said with huge grin on his face.

Ga In let out a small laugh. “Seems like you’ve everything planned out for today. Don’t you have patients to attend to…?”

Hearing her question, Jo Kwon wrapped his arms around her waist and rests his chin on her shoulder. “Well…you’re the first on my priority list and my patients come next.” He whispered gently into her ear.

Ga In felt a rush down her spine when Jo Kwon’s voice softly teased her ear. And not to mention Jo Kwon freshly showered scent made her mind go wild – clearly he just stepped off the bathroom with his obvious wet hair.

She really enjoyed the overflowing love from Jo Kwon and unknowingly, she finds herself leaning against his chest. He tightened the hug around her waist.

“You’re liking it, don’t you?”  He teased her again.

“Who doesn’t?”

Jo Kwon kissed her cheek and let go of her waist “Alright, go get in the shower now. I’ll be waiting.”

*

Ga In has done showering, and was sitting with Jo Kwon by the couch. The movie had started playing for a while now and Ga In barely touched the slice of pizza on her hand.

“Hey sweetheart… You okay?” Jo Kwon lowered his eyes to her pizza; hinting about the reason of the almost untouched pizza.

“Nah…I-I...am not hungry.”

“You are not yourself today. I don’t think you are even watching the movie. What’s wrong? Is there something bothering you?” Jo Kwon picked up the remote and paused the movie. He then turned to face Ga In.

“You can’t lie to me. You seem bothered. What’s wrong?” His voice was clearly very concern and worried.

If I tell you, would you leave me for her?

“I-I…” She raised her eyes and meets his soft brown eyes.

He cupped her face with his hand. “”Hey baby…you are making me worried.”

Ga In looked down as she holds the hand that cupped her face. “Would you ever leave me?” She asked suddenly.

“Is that what’s bothering you? Why would you even ask that?” Jo Kwon pulled Ga In into her embrace and hugged her tightly.

“I met with Lizzy today.” She blurted out.

Jo Kwon let go of the hug and asked again. “With who?”

“Lizzy. She told me that…”

His eyes gave off a very puzzled look; he hardly can wait for Ga In to finish her sentence.

“She’s leaving tomorrow morning.”

“Young is leaving? To where?”

“She’s leaving for Japan. She told me not to tell you until she leaves…But I don’t want you to have any regret…That’s why I—” Tears of anxiety finally trickled down her soft cheeks.

Jo Kwon pulled her back into the hug again and planted a kiss on the top of her head. “Shush…don’t cry…”

He absently stroke her hair to sooth her crying and he had something else on his mind.

***