Fifteen
Stunned. Heart races like hell. Cold hands and feet. These are all Jin Ae is feeling the moment she saw Dae Hyun's father coming out from a car. The body guard got out first and opened the door. Dae Hyun's father unwrinkled his coat before moving forward. He saw Jin Ae stunned sitting at one of the chairs outside the coffee table. He smiles.
"Well..well..Look do we have here" Dae Hyun's father halts in front of Jin Ae. She swallowed hard and don't know what to say or even think. She's blank now but her feet moved on its accord and made her stand. Her hands are shaking like it has its own life. Breathing's fast as well. She couldn't think what to say whether she will apologize or just keep it casual.
"Annyeonghaseyo" finally, she found her voice and greeted him. She's trying so hard not to look straight on his eyes 'coz that would cause a longer conversation and that's not good for her. Anything but that. Jin Ae stood up straight and tried looking around avoiding his stare.
"Good to see you hera Jin Ae. Where's Dae Hyun?" The father asked as he looked around looking for someone.
Jin Ae took a long breath controlling her want to just snap out of this place and leave him without respect.
"I'm alone, sir" she replied.
The bodyguard that's standing beside Dae Hyun's father whispered something on him and he responded with a nod.
"Well, then, see you at the engagement ceremony" The father left with a smile on his face.
What the hell was that? What engagement ceremony?!
Jin Ae quickly picked up her phone and dialed Dae Hyun's number. She's not even aware that she memorized it all. He heard a ring but no response. The fire on her chest was about to explode. If this engagement party your father was talking about, you're dead meat Dae Hyun. Dead meat! She phoned him again but still no answer. She sat down and almost pulled her hair out of annoyance and anger. Why is he doing this to me!! Redness climbed up and invaded her face. She tries to calm down and picked up her phone again but this time she sent him a text message instead.
Stunned. Heart races like hell. Cold hands and feet. These are all Jin Ae is feeling the moment she saw Dae Hyun's father coming out from a car. The body guard got out first and opened the door. Dae Hyun's father unwrinkled his coat before moving forward. He saw Jin Ae stunned sitting at one of the chairs outside the coffee table. He smiles.
"Well..well..Look do we have here" Dae Hyun's father halts in front of Jin Ae. She swallowed hard and don't know what to say or even think. She's blank now but her feet moved on its accord and made her stand. Her hands are shaking like it has its own life. Breathing's fast as well. She couldn't think what to say whether she will apologize or just keep it casual.
"Annyeonghaseyo" finally, she found her voice and greeted him. She's trying so hard not to look straight on his eyes 'coz that would cause a longer conversation and that's not good for her. Anything but that. Jin Ae stood up straight and tried looking around avoiding his stare.
"Good to see you hera Jin Ae. Where's Dae Hyun?" The father asked as he looked around looking for someone.
Jin Ae took a long breath controlling her want to just snap out of this place and leave him without respect.
"I'm alone, sir" she replied.
The bodyguard that's standing beside Dae Hyun's father whispered something on him and he responded with a nod.
"Well, then, see you at the engagement ceremony" The father left with a smile on his face.
What the hell was that? What engagement ceremony?!
Jin Ae quickly picked up her phone and dialed Dae Hyun's number. She's not even aware that she memorized it all. He heard a ring but no response. The fire on her chest was about to explode. If this engagement party your father was talking about, you're dead meat Dae Hyun. Dead meat! She phoned him again but still no answer. She sat down and almost pulled her hair out of annoyance and anger. Why is he doing this to me!! Redness climbed up and invaded her face. She tries to calm down and picked up her phone again but this time she sent him a text message instead.
Where are you?!
어디야?
어디야?
She slammed her phone at the table after she sent the message and took a sip on her coffee. A beep she heard. It was Dae Hyun.
Why?
왜?
왜?
Her fingers immediately worked on her reply. His raging with anger.
Engagement ceremony? Are you serious? Do you have plans on telling me this?
결혼 세레모니? 진심이예요? 저에게 이야기에 대한 계획을 가지고 있어?
결혼 세레모니? 진심이예요? 저에게 이야기에 대한 계획을 가지고 있어?
A minute later, a beep once again. Ha! Took a while to think of an alibi didn't you? What a douche.
I did but you walked out on me..
네, 있지만 밖으로 걸어 갔다.
네, 있지만 밖으로 걸어 갔다.
Her brows crooked the moment she read his respond. She opened her mouth but nothing went out. She replied that the screen of her phone almost cracked.
Excuse me?
뭐?
뭐?
I was planning to say this afternoon during lunch. But you walked away. Memory gap?
점심 시간이 오후에 말을 계획하고 있어요. 그리고 밖으로 걸어 갔다. 메모리 갭?
점심 시간이 오후에 말을 계획하고 있어요. 그리고 밖으로 걸어 갔다. 메모리 갭?
Jin Ae almost fell on her sit as the realization of the walking away incident during lunch earlier hit her. Shit.
Go to hell.
Moments later, a familiar voice almost killed Jin Ae out of shock.
"Hey," Dae Hyun put his hand on Jin Ae's shoulder while sitting outside the coffee shop. Her phone on her hand almost breaking it. Jin Ae felt her hear skipped a beat. She turned around to look at whoever bastard shocked her at the back.
"What are you doing here?!" she asked Dae Hyun, dumbfounded almost wanted to shrink and let hell eat her up. Much to her surprise, She saw her mother nearing them at the back as well. What's going on?
"I tried babe, but you stood me up" Dae Hyun said "Have some mercy on your phone" he added and pushed her forward by her shoulder. Jin Ae puzzled. Her Mom, Dae Hyun and his father are here and she has no clue why. Out of all places she chose to be. why here? How?
The feeling is like she did a crime and her mother is handling her to the police. All the shaking she felt earlier went out but replaced by fear. She felt something is wrong and was about to ruin her being. The three of them went inside, Dae Hyun's hands still on her shoulder, pushing her. At some point, she's thankful Dae Hyun is pushing her because without him she didn't think she can still move. At all. She tried to reach for her mom and ask about all of this but Dae Hyun's grip on her shoulders made her think that he's nervous too.
The father is already sitting, busy scanning the menu book. She bit her lip the moment she saw him. Jin Ae praying to all the saints Please don't go that way, please don't go that way and closed her eyes. It's crazy but she prayed that Dae Hyun doesn't know that his father is here as well. She thought that maybe everything is a coincidence that they are not here because of the engagement. It's crazy but Jin Ae prayed hard for it.
Unfortunately, Dae Hyun headed her to where his father is sitting. She opened her eyes, I'm damned.
"Oh there you are Mrs. Yoon" Dae Hyun's father stood up, bowed and shook her mother's hand.
"We're terribly sorry for being late Mr. Lee" Her mother bowed back.
"No worries, I just got here." Dae Hyun's father eyed Jin Ae and said "Ms. Yoon" and went towards the vacant seat in front him and pull it for Jin Ae to sit. Jin Ae looked at Dae Hyun who's standing next to him. Dae Hyun gestured like he's saying Go on now, sit.
Her mom sat beside the father and Dae Hyun beside Jin Ae. This is the most awkward moment of her life. Oh earth, please eat me whole right now.
Dae Hyun handed her the menu and whispered, "I bet you want to die right now". Jin Ae could swear the moment he whispered to her, she saw how evil-ish that smile was. She wants to strangle him right now. But the way Dae Hyun's breath touched her neck is to die for. It gave her chills right to her spine. Goosebumps all over her body. She answered, "I'll end you right now" while faking her smile.
While Dae Hyun and Jin Ae are doing their thing, his father cleared his throat. "So, how are we gonna start this?". Jin Ae's mom smiled and started talking, "Okay. Let me make this short. Jin Ae my dear, I know this is quite shocking for you", just before her mother could end her sentence, Jin Ae interrupted, "Mom, I don't think this is a good idea". Jin Ae knows exactly whose engagement ceremony are they going to talk about. Her mom shrugged. Worried. Her mom exactly knew what will be Jin Ae's reaction that's why they chose to meet here without her knowing it. Jin Ae's mom took her hand, "Dear, Let's do this. This is all you wanted, right?" Way to go mom! Way to go on ruining my dream! She swallowed and pulled her hand out from her mother. She straightened her back, like ready to fight. "This is pointless" she stood up, "I'm sorry Mom but I can't do this. I have to go" and quickly left the coffee shop. Dae Hyun frustrated, followed her. Jin Ae walked so fast that Dae Hyun couldn't keep up with her, Damn this woman, "Hey, Jin Ae!". As she was about to get her car keys from her purse, Dae Hyun pulled her arm and faced her. "What's wrong with you? You're running away again!". Jin Ae tried to let go of her arm but Dae Hyun's grip is very firm. "Let me go Dae Hyun" but Dae Hyun didn't move. Eyes on her. 2 seconds later, Dae Hyun gave up and let Jin Ae's arm go. His loud exhale gave Jin Ae a hint that Dae Hyun is so mad right now. "Okay. Just go back and apologize." Jin Ae doesn't seem to hear him right,
"Excuse me?".
"Damn it Jin Ae. That's our parents inside. Have some respect!"
"What?!"
"Alright" Dae Hyun tried to relax, "I know you're pissed. I know you don't want us to get married. I know it, Jin Ae. Damn it. But have some respect at least. Tell them you don't want this and we're done. Just don't walk away like that. You're offending me and my father"
Jin Ae couldn't believe what she just heard. Jin Ae thought she saw something from Dae Hyun's eyes that touched her heart. All of a sudden, her anger disappeared. She felt sorry. But not to his father, but to him. She can see frustration in his eyes. This confrontation makes Jin Ae hard to breath, not because of what she did and things happened before this. She felt something from Dae Hyun that she hasn't felt for years. The feeling she's been avoiding ever since the day she confirmed to herself that Dae Hyun has feelings for her. She doesn't want that feeling. It's like her mortal enemy is about to consume everything from her.
A tear fell from her face that she's not aware of. But Dae Hyun saw it on his own eyes. He felt like someone stabbed him from the back straight to his heart. Damn it Jin Ae, don't cry. Unconsciously, his hand cupped Jin Ae's face and slowly wipe the tear. Jin Ae closed her eyes as she savor Dae Hyun's touch. When she opened back her eyes, Dae Hyun turned his back and walked back to the cafe. She's there, left standing.
Jin Ae's POV (Point of view)
OMG what is happening? I don't know what to think right now. It's like I'm inside a bubble that's about to pop. I couldn't move. The way he held me gave the shivers right through me and I can't move. The feeling of guilt mixes with it that I couldn't even raise a leg. I want to apologize but nothing came out from me. Maybe the way he stares at me? Was it too close that left me out of breath? The picture of his back turning away from me will surely hunt me forever. But I want more. I want more of him. Moments after, finally I found my breath. I turned around and grabbed open my car. That conversation felt like a decade. Wow. It totally blew me away and yeah right, I'm shaking. I'm shaking that I couldn't insert the key to ignite. I slapped the wheel, "Damn it, Jin ae!" and leaned my forehead against it. Stupidity is now coming in. Realization is slowly growing in me as well. I dig deeper inside me. I know in my heart and I know too well I'm starting to like him but my mind says not to. What should I do?
I finally managed to make my car alive. I need to go home. Where I can feel safe and relax. I want out from this. It's hell. A nice relaxing trip to my jacuzzi will do. God, I can't wait. I kicked in to accelerate and in no time I was home. I took a deep breath thanking every gods I got home safe with these shaky hands. Why am I like this? It's pissing me off already. I went inside as fast as I could and straight to the jacuzzi. And the very first thing that came into my mind after submerging myself is Dae Hyun. Hell, this guy sure knows how to make gals crazy. Unfortunately, I'm adding in the list. There's something about what he said, I know you don't want us to get married. I know it, Jin Ae. Damn it. What did he mean about he knows it? He already knows I don't want to get married to him but he's still doing it. But he sounded like he's mad over something. Worst, he even brought my mother and his father to talk about it. So yeah, what the hell was he talking about that he knows it?! He knows nothing about it and he's annoying the biggest part of me. But why am I feeling bad? It's like part of me wants to go back there and say "Yeah. I'm screwed. I'm sorry. Hey let's get married" kind of thing. Ha. Like that's gonna happen. Never. Ever. I won't stoop down to his level and look desperate to get married. Is he that old already? Why don't he just pick some random girl he dated and leave me alone. Why me? I barely know him. Yes, we do see each other whenever our family is having a party but, even Hi or Hello, there's nothing. But I'll be damned. I want him. Arrrghhh! But no! No, please. Stop. That look in his eyes, I swear he's like saying "I'm begging you Jin Ae, Marry me. Marry me!". He sounded like a desperate dog to get hold of his bone. What was that about? I want to know. I want to know everything before I explode.
"Hey," Dae Hyun put his hand on Jin Ae's shoulder while sitting outside the coffee shop. Her phone on her hand almost breaking it. Jin Ae felt her hear skipped a beat. She turned around to look at whoever bastard shocked her at the back.
"What are you doing here?!" she asked Dae Hyun, dumbfounded almost wanted to shrink and let hell eat her up. Much to her surprise, She saw her mother nearing them at the back as well. What's going on?
"I tried babe, but you stood me up" Dae Hyun said "Have some mercy on your phone" he added and pushed her forward by her shoulder. Jin Ae puzzled. Her Mom, Dae Hyun and his father are here and she has no clue why. Out of all places she chose to be. why here? How?
The feeling is like she did a crime and her mother is handling her to the police. All the shaking she felt earlier went out but replaced by fear. She felt something is wrong and was about to ruin her being. The three of them went inside, Dae Hyun's hands still on her shoulder, pushing her. At some point, she's thankful Dae Hyun is pushing her because without him she didn't think she can still move. At all. She tried to reach for her mom and ask about all of this but Dae Hyun's grip on her shoulders made her think that he's nervous too.
The father is already sitting, busy scanning the menu book. She bit her lip the moment she saw him. Jin Ae praying to all the saints Please don't go that way, please don't go that way and closed her eyes. It's crazy but she prayed that Dae Hyun doesn't know that his father is here as well. She thought that maybe everything is a coincidence that they are not here because of the engagement. It's crazy but Jin Ae prayed hard for it.
Unfortunately, Dae Hyun headed her to where his father is sitting. She opened her eyes, I'm damned.
"Oh there you are Mrs. Yoon" Dae Hyun's father stood up, bowed and shook her mother's hand.
"We're terribly sorry for being late Mr. Lee" Her mother bowed back.
"No worries, I just got here." Dae Hyun's father eyed Jin Ae and said "Ms. Yoon" and went towards the vacant seat in front him and pull it for Jin Ae to sit. Jin Ae looked at Dae Hyun who's standing next to him. Dae Hyun gestured like he's saying Go on now, sit.
Her mom sat beside the father and Dae Hyun beside Jin Ae. This is the most awkward moment of her life. Oh earth, please eat me whole right now.
Dae Hyun handed her the menu and whispered, "I bet you want to die right now". Jin Ae could swear the moment he whispered to her, she saw how evil-ish that smile was. She wants to strangle him right now. But the way Dae Hyun's breath touched her neck is to die for. It gave her chills right to her spine. Goosebumps all over her body. She answered, "I'll end you right now" while faking her smile.
While Dae Hyun and Jin Ae are doing their thing, his father cleared his throat. "So, how are we gonna start this?". Jin Ae's mom smiled and started talking, "Okay. Let me make this short. Jin Ae my dear, I know this is quite shocking for you", just before her mother could end her sentence, Jin Ae interrupted, "Mom, I don't think this is a good idea". Jin Ae knows exactly whose engagement ceremony are they going to talk about. Her mom shrugged. Worried. Her mom exactly knew what will be Jin Ae's reaction that's why they chose to meet here without her knowing it. Jin Ae's mom took her hand, "Dear, Let's do this. This is all you wanted, right?" Way to go mom! Way to go on ruining my dream! She swallowed and pulled her hand out from her mother. She straightened her back, like ready to fight. "This is pointless" she stood up, "I'm sorry Mom but I can't do this. I have to go" and quickly left the coffee shop. Dae Hyun frustrated, followed her. Jin Ae walked so fast that Dae Hyun couldn't keep up with her, Damn this woman, "Hey, Jin Ae!". As she was about to get her car keys from her purse, Dae Hyun pulled her arm and faced her. "What's wrong with you? You're running away again!". Jin Ae tried to let go of her arm but Dae Hyun's grip is very firm. "Let me go Dae Hyun" but Dae Hyun didn't move. Eyes on her. 2 seconds later, Dae Hyun gave up and let Jin Ae's arm go. His loud exhale gave Jin Ae a hint that Dae Hyun is so mad right now. "Okay. Just go back and apologize." Jin Ae doesn't seem to hear him right,
"Excuse me?".
"Damn it Jin Ae. That's our parents inside. Have some respect!"
"What?!"
"Alright" Dae Hyun tried to relax, "I know you're pissed. I know you don't want us to get married. I know it, Jin Ae. Damn it. But have some respect at least. Tell them you don't want this and we're done. Just don't walk away like that. You're offending me and my father"
Jin Ae couldn't believe what she just heard. Jin Ae thought she saw something from Dae Hyun's eyes that touched her heart. All of a sudden, her anger disappeared. She felt sorry. But not to his father, but to him. She can see frustration in his eyes. This confrontation makes Jin Ae hard to breath, not because of what she did and things happened before this. She felt something from Dae Hyun that she hasn't felt for years. The feeling she's been avoiding ever since the day she confirmed to herself that Dae Hyun has feelings for her. She doesn't want that feeling. It's like her mortal enemy is about to consume everything from her.
A tear fell from her face that she's not aware of. But Dae Hyun saw it on his own eyes. He felt like someone stabbed him from the back straight to his heart. Damn it Jin Ae, don't cry. Unconsciously, his hand cupped Jin Ae's face and slowly wipe the tear. Jin Ae closed her eyes as she savor Dae Hyun's touch. When she opened back her eyes, Dae Hyun turned his back and walked back to the cafe. She's there, left standing.
Jin Ae's POV (Point of view)
OMG what is happening? I don't know what to think right now. It's like I'm inside a bubble that's about to pop. I couldn't move. The way he held me gave the shivers right through me and I can't move. The feeling of guilt mixes with it that I couldn't even raise a leg. I want to apologize but nothing came out from me. Maybe the way he stares at me? Was it too close that left me out of breath? The picture of his back turning away from me will surely hunt me forever. But I want more. I want more of him. Moments after, finally I found my breath. I turned around and grabbed open my car. That conversation felt like a decade. Wow. It totally blew me away and yeah right, I'm shaking. I'm shaking that I couldn't insert the key to ignite. I slapped the wheel, "Damn it, Jin ae!" and leaned my forehead against it. Stupidity is now coming in. Realization is slowly growing in me as well. I dig deeper inside me. I know in my heart and I know too well I'm starting to like him but my mind says not to. What should I do?
I finally managed to make my car alive. I need to go home. Where I can feel safe and relax. I want out from this. It's hell. A nice relaxing trip to my jacuzzi will do. God, I can't wait. I kicked in to accelerate and in no time I was home. I took a deep breath thanking every gods I got home safe with these shaky hands. Why am I like this? It's pissing me off already. I went inside as fast as I could and straight to the jacuzzi. And the very first thing that came into my mind after submerging myself is Dae Hyun. Hell, this guy sure knows how to make gals crazy. Unfortunately, I'm adding in the list. There's something about what he said, I know you don't want us to get married. I know it, Jin Ae. Damn it. What did he mean about he knows it? He already knows I don't want to get married to him but he's still doing it. But he sounded like he's mad over something. Worst, he even brought my mother and his father to talk about it. So yeah, what the hell was he talking about that he knows it?! He knows nothing about it and he's annoying the biggest part of me. But why am I feeling bad? It's like part of me wants to go back there and say "Yeah. I'm screwed. I'm sorry. Hey let's get married" kind of thing. Ha. Like that's gonna happen. Never. Ever. I won't stoop down to his level and look desperate to get married. Is he that old already? Why don't he just pick some random girl he dated and leave me alone. Why me? I barely know him. Yes, we do see each other whenever our family is having a party but, even Hi or Hello, there's nothing. But I'll be damned. I want him. Arrrghhh! But no! No, please. Stop. That look in his eyes, I swear he's like saying "I'm begging you Jin Ae, Marry me. Marry me!". He sounded like a desperate dog to get hold of his bone. What was that about? I want to know. I want to know everything before I explode.
Dae Hyun's POV
I did everything I could to control myself. I don't want to see her crying. I have to go or else I might do something regretful. It's not like I will regret every single of it but now is not the right time. Every cell of my body wanted to kiss that tear away and I gathered all the strength I have not to do it. God, she looked so fragile crying, and I can't take it seeing her like that. I turned my back from her and went back inside.
"Well?" My father asked. I shook my head and take my seat. "She'll get over it. I apologize for that" I answered. Her mother took a deep breath and looked worried than ever. We didn't expect this to happen while we were talking on the way here. Her mother was confident she can convince Jin Ae. The last thing we're worried about was her walking out. And that's what happened. Her mother stands up and put her hand on my shoulder, "Don't worry Dae Hyun. I'm sure there's a way" she said and left. Damn do I look that hopeless? I looked at Dad and wanted to say sorry for everything. I closed my eyes, my heart is breaking. I felt my dad moved and when I opened my eyes, he was about to leave. I stood up too wanting to stop him for whatever reasons but it looks like he read my mind. He turned around and faced me, "Let me know if you changed your mind". I nodded and he left. Yeah, I was thinking to call this engagement off. I was crazy to ask to marry her to begin with. Shit, what was I thinking back then? I ticked my fingers against the table, waiting for something to come up in my mind. But that delicate skin tainted by her tears won't get out from me. Did I went too rough on her? I bit my lip and decided to leave as well. There's no point on staying here. A bitter memory will surely mark in here and I'm sure myself not going back. Part of me want to burn this place down so there will be no trace of what happened. Especially that very spot where I saw her cried. I walked my way to my car and felt like the longest time of my life. Wait, did someone just reject me face to face? Ouch. That hurt. My pride is now turning into pieces. Shit, but that's not even the point. I want to marry her, badly. I don't know why and when it started but I just want her to be with me for the rest of my life. Call me crazy but that's just what I'm feeling right now. Maybe because I'm attracted to her physically? Hell yes! But could this be just infatuation and that I'm just having a crush on her? But what is this feeling the universe is pulling me towards her? Ever since I saw her from that party where she punched my dad, I think that's the first time I felt something. I didn't see her like close contact, but from afar, I could feel her presence and my eyes couldn't take my eyes off of her. I've seen her many times before but nothing flicked when I see her. Maybe that's why I had this crazy idea to punish her for jabbing my dad by asking her to marry me? Wait, hor. I didn't even asked her. Way to go Dae Hyun. You're such a jerk. Maybe that's why she's so pissed? I invaded her life by announcing to the world that we're getting married and I didn't even tell her about it. Should I ask her then? Nah. Too stupid. Judging the situation, I don't think it will work. It will never work actually. She hates me to bits.
My phone lying on the passenger seat seems to be shouting at me. No, I don't want to text her. The situation is too sensitive now. Not now. Maybe later? Ha. Ha. Ha. What a kid, Dae Hyun. Grow up!. Okay then, maybe I should go to her place? Apologize in person? Will I look like too desperate? Damn but I want to see if she's okay. I called my ever loving best friend if he's free to have a drink or two. I need to let this out.
So we meet in this pub and drink to the very last drop. I told him everything happened earlier.
"Dude, you're miserable" he said.
"Yeah. Thanks man, nice way to cheer me up" I wrinkled my nose and bottoms up!. If you come to think of it. I really am miserable. My pride is just too high as the Eiffel Tower to admit it.
It's past midnight and I want more. I want to drink and let the drink eat me up whole and never return in this cruel world again. "Dude, stop. We have to go. You're drunk" He said while dragging me outside the pub. I don't want to go. My head is spinning like a heroine. But he's too strong for me now. I'll get back to you punk when I'm sober.
The next day. A very terrible headache welcomed me. Oh dear, that hurts. I found myself lying on my sofa and I heard noise from the kitchen. I slowly stood up and I squinted only to see Jin Ae. Fucking mother of Obama, what is she doing here?! She didn't know I was awake and she's there at my kitchen, apron on her body cooking something. I swear I will give up everything I have just to see that back every mornings of my life. I sit down on my dining table and I heard a groan from me. Yikes. What a gentlemen. She turned around, poker face.
"I cooked you a congee. The kimchi's in the refrigerator which is you know better than I am. I just checked things from there before I cook." She place a bowl of congee in front of me. "Enjoy". Jin Ae then took off her apron and started to leave. My head is slicing from hell but I don't want her to leave. I want to know how she got here.
"W..Wait" She halted and turned to me. "How did you get here?". She put both hands on her waist just like every mom is doing while lecturing their kids, "Uhhmm... You called me?" one brow raising. Yeah right like I did that. She rolled her eyes waited for a reasonable answer. I look at her. God she's a beauty. "At how exactly did I call you?" what a stupid question.
She let out a frustrated breath, "Are you serious? You called me 3 in the morning and you don't remember?". What the hell? Yeah, Am I serious? Hor. Since when did I start calling girls in the middle of the night? I must've hit my head hard when I was with In Jung. I started to gather my voice and talk while massaging my freaking stupid head.
"I'm sorry Jin Ae. You can go now. It.. it won't happen again."
"Yeah. Better not to." she answered. I looked up again and she's still there like wanting to talk through my mind.
"Do you have something to say?" I asked.
"I... I just want to apologize from yesterday. I shouldn't let my anger ruled over me. It won't happen again. I promise." She said. She looked down and didn't meet my eyes while apologizing. God, what a brave gal. I'm sure it's breaking her to pieces.
"I know. I understand. Let's call this off. I'm sure everyone's fine will be fine with it." I nodded while saying that. Like convincing myself about the marriage that will never gonna work out.
"What did you say?" she asked. Confused.
"The wedding. I'm not gonna marry you anymore. You're free now." I tasted a bitter taste through my mouth I'm not sure if it's from the alcohol god knows how many bottles I consumed last night or just my inner self objecting what I had just said.
"Why?..."
Why? Shit. I just don't want to see you going hard through this, It kills me Jin Ae. It kills me.
"This is all my fault Jin Ae. I shouldn't have let this happen. I want you to marry me to punish you by humiliating my father."
"But, I'm sorry Dae Hyun but your father served that right". I shook my head, "No Jin Ae. You totally have this thing all wrong. My father wasn't talking about your father. He was talking about one of the board members who wants to take over our company."
"Oh my god" she said covering her mouth.
"Yeah I know Jin Ae. That's how bad it was. I know you're just protecting your father but I couldn't let that just happen without justice. I told my father to make you marry me so you'll be miserable all your life. I wanted to punish you real bad. But.. but" I let out a deep sigh and stood up facing her, "I'm sorry Jin Ae. I know my plan was stupid and childish but what you did is really out of the limits. We had to do something and marrying you is the thing I thought was the best." She stepped back, wanting to get space from me. She's hating me now. I know. But I have to let this out. It's now or never. I stepped forward. I wanna hug her. "I'm sorry". Oh god, she's about to cry. I cupped her shoulders and hold her in place. When I was sure she's not going somewhere, I let go of one of her shoulders and held her face. "Don't cry, please".
I did everything I could to control myself. I don't want to see her crying. I have to go or else I might do something regretful. It's not like I will regret every single of it but now is not the right time. Every cell of my body wanted to kiss that tear away and I gathered all the strength I have not to do it. God, she looked so fragile crying, and I can't take it seeing her like that. I turned my back from her and went back inside.
"Well?" My father asked. I shook my head and take my seat. "She'll get over it. I apologize for that" I answered. Her mother took a deep breath and looked worried than ever. We didn't expect this to happen while we were talking on the way here. Her mother was confident she can convince Jin Ae. The last thing we're worried about was her walking out. And that's what happened. Her mother stands up and put her hand on my shoulder, "Don't worry Dae Hyun. I'm sure there's a way" she said and left. Damn do I look that hopeless? I looked at Dad and wanted to say sorry for everything. I closed my eyes, my heart is breaking. I felt my dad moved and when I opened my eyes, he was about to leave. I stood up too wanting to stop him for whatever reasons but it looks like he read my mind. He turned around and faced me, "Let me know if you changed your mind". I nodded and he left. Yeah, I was thinking to call this engagement off. I was crazy to ask to marry her to begin with. Shit, what was I thinking back then? I ticked my fingers against the table, waiting for something to come up in my mind. But that delicate skin tainted by her tears won't get out from me. Did I went too rough on her? I bit my lip and decided to leave as well. There's no point on staying here. A bitter memory will surely mark in here and I'm sure myself not going back. Part of me want to burn this place down so there will be no trace of what happened. Especially that very spot where I saw her cried. I walked my way to my car and felt like the longest time of my life. Wait, did someone just reject me face to face? Ouch. That hurt. My pride is now turning into pieces. Shit, but that's not even the point. I want to marry her, badly. I don't know why and when it started but I just want her to be with me for the rest of my life. Call me crazy but that's just what I'm feeling right now. Maybe because I'm attracted to her physically? Hell yes! But could this be just infatuation and that I'm just having a crush on her? But what is this feeling the universe is pulling me towards her? Ever since I saw her from that party where she punched my dad, I think that's the first time I felt something. I didn't see her like close contact, but from afar, I could feel her presence and my eyes couldn't take my eyes off of her. I've seen her many times before but nothing flicked when I see her. Maybe that's why I had this crazy idea to punish her for jabbing my dad by asking her to marry me? Wait, hor. I didn't even asked her. Way to go Dae Hyun. You're such a jerk. Maybe that's why she's so pissed? I invaded her life by announcing to the world that we're getting married and I didn't even tell her about it. Should I ask her then? Nah. Too stupid. Judging the situation, I don't think it will work. It will never work actually. She hates me to bits.
My phone lying on the passenger seat seems to be shouting at me. No, I don't want to text her. The situation is too sensitive now. Not now. Maybe later? Ha. Ha. Ha. What a kid, Dae Hyun. Grow up!. Okay then, maybe I should go to her place? Apologize in person? Will I look like too desperate? Damn but I want to see if she's okay. I called my ever loving best friend if he's free to have a drink or two. I need to let this out.
So we meet in this pub and drink to the very last drop. I told him everything happened earlier.
"Dude, you're miserable" he said.
"Yeah. Thanks man, nice way to cheer me up" I wrinkled my nose and bottoms up!. If you come to think of it. I really am miserable. My pride is just too high as the Eiffel Tower to admit it.
It's past midnight and I want more. I want to drink and let the drink eat me up whole and never return in this cruel world again. "Dude, stop. We have to go. You're drunk" He said while dragging me outside the pub. I don't want to go. My head is spinning like a heroine. But he's too strong for me now. I'll get back to you punk when I'm sober.
The next day. A very terrible headache welcomed me. Oh dear, that hurts. I found myself lying on my sofa and I heard noise from the kitchen. I slowly stood up and I squinted only to see Jin Ae. Fucking mother of Obama, what is she doing here?! She didn't know I was awake and she's there at my kitchen, apron on her body cooking something. I swear I will give up everything I have just to see that back every mornings of my life. I sit down on my dining table and I heard a groan from me. Yikes. What a gentlemen. She turned around, poker face.
"I cooked you a congee. The kimchi's in the refrigerator which is you know better than I am. I just checked things from there before I cook." She place a bowl of congee in front of me. "Enjoy". Jin Ae then took off her apron and started to leave. My head is slicing from hell but I don't want her to leave. I want to know how she got here.
"W..Wait" She halted and turned to me. "How did you get here?". She put both hands on her waist just like every mom is doing while lecturing their kids, "Uhhmm... You called me?" one brow raising. Yeah right like I did that. She rolled her eyes waited for a reasonable answer. I look at her. God she's a beauty. "At how exactly did I call you?" what a stupid question.
She let out a frustrated breath, "Are you serious? You called me 3 in the morning and you don't remember?". What the hell? Yeah, Am I serious? Hor. Since when did I start calling girls in the middle of the night? I must've hit my head hard when I was with In Jung. I started to gather my voice and talk while massaging my freaking stupid head.
"I'm sorry Jin Ae. You can go now. It.. it won't happen again."
"Yeah. Better not to." she answered. I looked up again and she's still there like wanting to talk through my mind.
"Do you have something to say?" I asked.
"I... I just want to apologize from yesterday. I shouldn't let my anger ruled over me. It won't happen again. I promise." She said. She looked down and didn't meet my eyes while apologizing. God, what a brave gal. I'm sure it's breaking her to pieces.
"I know. I understand. Let's call this off. I'm sure everyone's fine will be fine with it." I nodded while saying that. Like convincing myself about the marriage that will never gonna work out.
"What did you say?" she asked. Confused.
"The wedding. I'm not gonna marry you anymore. You're free now." I tasted a bitter taste through my mouth I'm not sure if it's from the alcohol god knows how many bottles I consumed last night or just my inner self objecting what I had just said.
"Why?..."
Why? Shit. I just don't want to see you going hard through this, It kills me Jin Ae. It kills me.
"This is all my fault Jin Ae. I shouldn't have let this happen. I want you to marry me to punish you by humiliating my father."
"But, I'm sorry Dae Hyun but your father served that right". I shook my head, "No Jin Ae. You totally have this thing all wrong. My father wasn't talking about your father. He was talking about one of the board members who wants to take over our company."
"Oh my god" she said covering her mouth.
"Yeah I know Jin Ae. That's how bad it was. I know you're just protecting your father but I couldn't let that just happen without justice. I told my father to make you marry me so you'll be miserable all your life. I wanted to punish you real bad. But.. but" I let out a deep sigh and stood up facing her, "I'm sorry Jin Ae. I know my plan was stupid and childish but what you did is really out of the limits. We had to do something and marrying you is the thing I thought was the best." She stepped back, wanting to get space from me. She's hating me now. I know. But I have to let this out. It's now or never. I stepped forward. I wanna hug her. "I'm sorry". Oh god, she's about to cry. I cupped her shoulders and hold her in place. When I was sure she's not going somewhere, I let go of one of her shoulders and held her face. "Don't cry, please".