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Chapter Text

‘No! I’ve planned this for 13 years now, there is no way I will fail!’ Holding on to the rose in her hands, she whispered with much intensity in her voice, ‘At the hottest moment, I will take you down in the coldest way!’ while crushing the blood-red petals that used to belong to that rose she was holding. Her eyes were shining with fury and her lips quivered as she spoke.

‘Cut’ shouted the Director! ‘Well done! It’s a wrap for Lee Rael today, we will move on to the other scenes with CEO Kang and So Ra!’

Yeaji thanks her co-stars and the director while saying her goodbyes.

Manager Ryu passes Yeaji her Starbucks tumbler but after a sip of the drink, she realised it was not her favourite drink, Iced Americano that she was drinking, but plain water. She looked up, initially irritated that her taste buds were not satisfied, but it gradually dawned on her that there can only be a certain someone who would tease her this way.

‘He’s here?’ she wondered, narrowing her eyes as she scans around, looking for her favourite person.

There he was, wearing his usual black cap and casual attire, speaking to Sang Yeob at the back of the studio.

*10 minutes ago…*

‘Hyung, pass me Yeaji’s tumbler. She’s been drinking too much coffee these days because of her filming schedule… her fans have been asking her to drink more water instead of caffeinated drinks! I’ll go fill it up and come back soon!’ Soo Hyun said to Manager Ryu and ran off to run the errand.

He came back into the studio and bumped into Sang Yeob who was surprised to see him.

‘Yah Kim Soo Hyun! It’s been a while since we last met! What brings you here? I didn’t know Gold Medalist colleagues were so close with each other to even come visit their colleagues on set! Hey, isn’t that Yeaji’s tumbler? Eh ehhhh!’ Sang Yeob broke into a sneaky, sly smile pointing at the object held in Soo Hyun’s hand. He tried to hide the tumbler behind his back but it was too late, raising more suspicion from Sang Yeob. Soo Hyun signalled Manager Ryu to get the tumbler from him.

Sang Yeob continued to tease while showing a cheeky face. ‘There is something going on between the two of you right? I remember Gold Medalist sending a coffee truck, that’s pretty normal, but colleagues from the same agency coming on set? Unless…’

‘Yah Hyung! Hyung!’ Soo Hyun frantically tried to think of a topic, hoping to change the subject. ‘I really enjoyed watching Sixth Sense! I mean the production crew coming up with those options… I, myself am fooled! I mean, like that episode that featured the ramen place that allowed customers to choose their ingredients by weight. Wow! I was so sure that place was real and was intending to go to that restaurant to try it. Who knew it was a fake place!’ Soo Hyun rumbled on while speaking casually to Sang Yeob.

Seeing Yeaji walking towards them, Sang Yeob pat firmly on Soo Hyun’s shoulder and whispered, ‘Don’t worry about this, it’s safe with me. I know you will protect her fiercely and I have seen how your agency works differently to make sure she is protected from nasty Kmedia and Knetizens. She’s a nice girl, treasure her! Or else Seo Eun-Pyeong will end up chasing after her! Here comes your girl with her tumbler...’

‘Oppa, I’m done with my shots for today. ‘Fighting!’ for your remaining shots and I’d see you tomorrow!’ Yeaji said to Sang Yeob and bowed goodbye as she normally does when she ends her filming schedule for the day.

She stole a look at Soo Hyun, greeted him formally and left to get changed.

‘You guys are funny!’ Sang Yeob let out a stifled laugh. ‘Go, go! I’d catch up with you another time.’

Soo Hyun said his goodbyes and followed after her together with Manager Ryu.

‘Someone’s going to get into some trouble later!’ Manager Ryu said to him while they walked down the corridor to the make-up room.

‘Wae?’

‘She was obviously expecting to drink her favourite IA after her shot! But of course, the irritated look on her face faded away when she realised who would actually have the audacity to change her drink. You should have seen the change, the subtle smile on her face when she found you through the crowd of back-stage crew talking to Actor Sang Yeob. So maybe, you wouldn’t be in too big of trouble later.’

‘Hyung! I haven’t seen her in weeks, and this is one of the little ways I can help her keep healthy! I wouldn’t want her to revert to those days when she drank 8 cups of coffee in a day! Jeoldae andwae!’ Soo Hyun said in an earnest and serious tone.

‘Ne, ne… Nae dong saeng Actor Kim all grown up, taking care of his loved one.’ Manager Ryu teased.

They entered the make-up room and there sat Yeaji, with her eyes closed getting her make-up removed, allowing her make-up artist Maeng to skillfully do her job.

Now that they were in the room with people they both trusted, he took a bold move and sat on the stool next to her. He held her hand and brought it to his lips, causing her eyes to crinkle and the corners of her lips to turn upwards.

‘You’re here.’ She said in a gentle and deep tone, the voice he was so attracted to.

‘Neo mu bo go sip-eoss-eo’ he replied tenderly. A sudden smack on his shoulder broke him out of his reverie.

‘Yah, Actor Kim! Can’t you see that I’m trying to remove her make-up? You making her instantly smile isn’t helping me get my job done properly!’ Maeng exclaimed in a joking manner, making Yeaji chuckle even more.

‘Mianhae, I’ll help to pack up then…’ Soo Hyun sheepishly answered, and joined his Hyung to gather Yeaji’s items.

After a few minutes, Yeaji was free to go. They thanked the people in the room and bid them goodbye. Manager Ryu reminded Yeaji about her schedule the next day, to be at the outdoor location by 4am the next morning.

They went on their way to her house in his BMW i8, his hand not leaving hers as he skillfully handles the steering wheel with the other hand. She looked at him in bliss but was reminded about her drink that was replaced and decided to tease him, wanting to indulge in witty banter with her best partner.

She played with his fingers and asked, ‘So, what happened to my IA? And you also didn’t reply my message, or tell me you were coming!’

‘Well, you did say during the interview with The Swoon that you’d be ok if your best friend doesn’t reply immediately! It was meant to be a surprise for you too! As for the IA, your fans would be happy to know that I did them a favour to get you to drink water instead of caffeinated drinks. You should have seen their posts when they found out what you ordered from the coffee trucks that they sent! They are concerned about your health, and so am I.’

Yeaji pouts after hearing what he said, knowing full well that there was no way she could win this banter. ‘Nae, I’d drink less caffeinated drinks next time,’ she obediently answered.

His car stopped at the traffic light at that point. He looked into her eyes and stroked her hair, praising her he said, ‘Good girl’. They smiled at each other, soaking in this blissful moment, one that they thoroughly missed, and they both knew that this memory will be one that will spur them on in their relationship.

They reached her house, and she proceeds to the shower to wash up. Manny and Ssulti were at her parents’ house during this period when her filming schedule is erratic. It is almost dinner time and instead of ordering in, he decides to whip up something for her. Compared to her, he was not very good at cooking. But he has recently gotten better as he spent his time trying to perfect cooking ramen, something not too difficult for him.

She comes out of the shower and sees a man concentrating on cooking. He fumbles with the tongs that he used to put the noodles into a bowl. Only after a few seconds did he notice that the bowl he was holding was getting hot, leading him to exclaim as he puts the bowl on the kitchen top. She smiles to herself as she sees this sight. This clumsy 35-year-old dork who doesn’t cook much, whipping up dinner for them.

Yeaji hugs him from behind and he responded, ‘Careful, it’s hot!’

‘You should have used those oven mittens you bought for me when I baked the cookies for the crew! Don’t hurt your hands because I still want you to hold my hands in future.’ She shyly said while lying her head on his back.

He giggled and enjoyed the moment, knowing full well that she only showed this side of her to people she loved most. Riding on her comment, he asked cheekily, ‘Ramyeon meokgo galrae?’ Receiving a playful smack on his back.

Soo Hyun placed a bowl of ramen on the table and directs her to sit. She eats first, humming in approval as she enjoys the ramen he cooked for her.

‘Nomu mashiseoyo, you’re getting better at this!’ she exclaimed, giving him a thumbs up. He finally sits at the table, slurping up a mouthful of noodles. Yeaji laughs at him as his cheeks fill up like a squirrel. Surprised by her laughter, he looks at her with his eyebrows lifted, wondering why she was laughing at him.

She leans in and pecks on his lips. ‘Thank you for the meal’.

Giving him another peck, she said, ‘Thank you for taking care of me’.

And her last peck, she lingered a while longer than the other two. ‘Thank you for loving me’.

Soo Hyun, with his mouth still full of noodles, took a while to let what happened sink in and they both ended up giggling shyly at each other.

They caught up with each other after dinner as they cosied up on the sofa, describing in more detail what they could not say over the video calls that they had, or in the messages they sent over the period of time they were not able to meet each other. Simple gestures of love - holding onto and caressing each other’s hands, a gentle and loving touch on one’s cheek, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, leaning on his chest, softly rising and falling with his breath, listening to his heart beating as they embraced each other - all these were simple pleasures to them.

‘Saranghae Yeaji ya’

‘Saranghae Soo Hyun-ssi’

They shared a prolonged kiss, a deeply romantic one after being apart from each other for a long time, not wanting to break away, ending with an intimate and sweet gesture, rubbing their noses against each other as they cherished each moment spent with each other.

Being in a relationship and maintaining it is tough enough. Being a celebrity couple where Knetizens and Kmedia are always on a lookout to point out and make what is false look true or to blow things out of proportion, made maintaining a relationship even harder. They both know that choosing to keep a low profile about their relationship status while still maintaining their love will continue to be an arduous journey for them. But they were committed to keep this going, for as long as none of them gives up because their love was worth fighting for.

Chapter Text

He was stoked. He went through a whirlwind of emotions over the last 3 days being away from Home. Leaving South Korea to the airport, arriving at Manila and seeing the huge crowd of fans, feeling the heat, attending interviews, the main highlight which was the fan meeting and of course, not missing out on some fun on the golf course, a new sport he has been trying to master these days.

His emotions were on a high, but it was nothing close to having that warm feeling in his heart. Something was missing, or rather, someone was missing. He was missing someone, 1530 miles away.

She is still having back-to-back filming for her drama which was hitting the roof with its ratings. He is worried about her health and her not having enough sleep. As an actor himself, he knew that playing this character was physically taxing and the amount of emotional intensity she had to put into this project was unlike any character she had acted as before. ‘Eve’ would be her comeback work. One that will take the world by storm. One that she picked because of the challenges that she would need to portray as Lee Rael/Kim Sun Bin. One that will allow her to grow as an actress. He knew that, and despite his worries, he stood by, supporting her.

While waiting to clear customs, Manager Ryu asked if he needed to pick anything up from DFO to which he replied, ‘No, what I need is my home’. Manager Ryu looked at him, shook his head and whispered ‘This love fool.’

Meanwhile, Yea Ji finished her filming that lasted from the night before through the morning, ending just in time for her to freshen up a little, to make sure that things at his house were prepared and go to the airport to surprise him. She’s a little nervous because she’s usually the one receiving surprises.

She misses him. Her schedule had been tight, and they could not even afford to video call. But they never fail to update each other on the happenings for the day, and to wish each other good morning and good night, a promise they made to each other regardless of how busy they would be.

He sent her snippets of his fan meeting that was taken by Manager Ryu. She had a good laugh, especially when he shook his head and lifted the sign that said ‘Not Ok’ watching horror movies alone. She giggled, thinking back on how he grimaced while they watched her favourite horror movies - The Conjuring and Hereditary, together.

She received a text from Manager Ryu telling her that they are on the way out and reminded her to be careful as there were a lot of people both fans and media lurking around. So, Yea Ji decided to sit further back and strategically sat behind the seat where Soo Hyun usually sits, firstly to avoid any media sightings of the both of them together, and secondly, to go through with her plan to cover his eyes when he comes in and gets seated.

True enough, the wait took a while as he was bombarded by the media, wanting to find out more about his first fan meeting since Covid hit. He finally stepped out of the airport, and from where Yea Ji was seated, she could see mobs of fans gathering around him. He enters the van hurriedly and sat at his usual seat. He could finally loosen up from being away from the public eye when the sliding door of the van shut. Unaware of his surroundings, he heaved a sigh of relief, removed his bucket hat and just as he was about to take off his mask, Yea Ji places her hands and covered his eyes.

‘Mwoya?!’ he said in shock, causing a giggle from his best partner. Only then, did he realise that she was there. ‘You’re here?’ he gently asked, as he held onto her hands that were still covering his eyes.

He removed his mask with one hand, turned around and faced her. Being physically away from each other for a period of time made him treasure her even more. Still holding on to her hands, looking at each other’s face, he could not resist leaving a kiss on her lips. When they ended their long awaited kiss, he smiled and said ‘To what do I owe the pleasure to have Lee Rael pick me up from the airport?’
‘Well, Rael has gone to plan her revenge. All you have now is Seo-Yea-ji,’ she said slyly, pausing as she sayed each character of her name while still stroking his hair at his nape. A gesture that has a calming effect on him, one that he has grown to love. He chuckled, cupped her cheeks with his hand saying, ‘That’s perfect, because I want my girlfriend tonight!’

Throughout the ride back to his house, there was minimal talking. The couple just faced each other, holding onto each other’s hands, smiling like young teenagers who are so smitten with each other enjoying every second they had, glad that they could finally meet each other again.

Shortly after, they arrived at his house. Manager Ryu helped with some luggage and gifts that Soo Hyun received from fans. The couple thanked him and told him to rest well.

He entered his house and was surprised to see the hall decorated with the words ‘Welcome Home’ together with other coloured balloons and streamers.

‘Wow!’ he exclaimed. ‘It’s been a while since I’ve had something like this, did you do this on your own? It must have been tough, rushing over after your filming. Thank you, my love!’ He embraced her as he spoke.

Yea Ji smiled, very pleased that her man was happy with the decorations she had painstakingly prepared. Hugging him, she told him to take a shower while she prepares food for the night.

She decided to cook some Korean dishes – Kimchi fried rice, beef bulgogi and tofu stew, knowing that he probably missed home-cooked food after being away for a few days. True enough, the smell of the food got her man running out to the kitchen as soon as he got out of the shower.

‘Daebak! Just what I need for today, gomawo!’ he said and plants a kiss on her cheek as she continues to stir-fry the beef bulgogi. He went on to set the table and prepare the other side dishes before they could start their meal together.

Being his dorky self, he would exclaim ‘Wow!’ with every dish he tasted. Earning a smile on Yea Ji’s face as she sees the satisfied look on his face. He continues to enjoy the food until his cheeks are filled with food. ‘You don’t have to eat so fast Mr Squirrel! No one is stealing the food from you,’ Yea Ji teased him. ‘You can’t fault me for that, I’ve missed the food you cook! It’s so delicious!’ he rebutted.

She pinched his cheeks and said lovingly, ‘When filming ends, I’d have more time to cook for you ok jagiya?’ He nods in agreement and puckered his lips, asking for a peck on the lips and she leaned forward to complete the kiss.

‘So, I was watching the videos from your fan-meet and someone said his favourite place is home?’ Yea Ji asked, wanting to find out more about Soo Hyun’s response.

‘Home is wherever I'm with you, Yea Ji ah,’ he replied.

‘Yea Ji, do you remember that day we first met?’
‘I sure do, you kept making lame jokes and I couldn’t stop laughing.’
‘Well, you were tense and uptight when we started, and I needed to break the ice between the both of us. How else could we have done the almost kiss then?"
‘Alright, alright, thank you for that, or else we wouldn’t get close and film that advertisement with ease,’ she smiles, recalling the moments they shared.
‘Well, there's something I never told you about that day.’
‘What didn't you tell me?’
‘While you were laughing at my jokes, I was falling deep, deeply in love with you. Your smile and giggles, and I never told you until just now’
‘Aww’ she leans in for a kiss.

Eskimo kissing each other, he whispered, ‘Mahal Kita’

Giggling, she asked ‘Was that something your Filipino fans taught you? Did they say that to you?’ having heard that phrase before from her fans and knowing its meaning.

He acts shocked and pointing to his temple he said, ‘You’re really smart! Our kids will be smart like you.’

‘Kids? Wow, now we’re on the topic of kids? You really are very random Mr Kim Soo Hyun!’ Yea Ji exclaimed and laughed.

‘In all seriousness Ms Seo Yea Ji, I do see us settling down and having kids in future! You’d be cooking while I get the kids ready for their meal. We will teach them to be kind, to know what warmth is and what love is. You are my home, my best partner and my favourite place to be, is wherever I’m with you. I can’t imagine my life without you! Remember when I told you ‘No matter where I go, I'll never leave your side, you will never be alone’. Even when we go through changes, even when we're old, remember that I told you, I'll find my way back home.’ He smiled as he said these in all sincerity.

‘Thank you for being my home. For preparing all these when you are all tired out with filming. I love you so much and I can’t wait for what lies ahead for the both of us. And I look forward to the day I can call you my wife, to tell the world that you are mine, and I am yours.’

They held each other in a warm embrace and ended the night in each other’s arms, reaffirming their love, knowing that they are each other’s ‘Home’.

Chapter Text

2023 Buil Award ceremony, her name was announced. She goes up on stage as the theatre filled the space with roaring applause. She received the award of ‘Best Actress’ and gave her speech.

‘Hello I’m Seo Yea Ji. Thank you for giving this award to me. Thank you to my agency Gold Medalist for trusting me and for giving me opportunities to grow in my craft as an actress. To all the staffs who worked hard, thank you. To Yeji Yechan, Yeyes, Yejgall, International yeyes, I love you and thank you very much.’

She paused, as she calmly held her tears back, noting that she was starting to speak in a quavering voice. Taking a deep breath, she angled herself and looked directly to a person in the crowd.

‘To my special person, thank you for being with me through the storms. Thank you for loving me and may this gift of blessing come to us healthily as we go through this new season as parents together. Thank you.’ She stroked her now visible baby bump as she spoke.

The audience and fellow colleagues cheered as she gave a bow, indicating the end of her speech.

Soo Hyun teared up while listening to her speech. Though his fellow colleagues and friends were teasing him as they heard the speech, he could only smile with happy tears, being grateful for how things have turned out through these few years. True enough, this blessing came to them at the right time.

They had gotten married at the end of 2022, and in mid 2023 they found out that they would be expecting a baby. He was elated about becoming a father, building a family with her. They chose to share their joy and announced their pregnancy on his Instagram account after the first trimester.

After the awards ceremony, the couple stayed for the after party to greet some of their sunbaes who they have not seen in a long time. Various fellow artistes in the industry congratulated the couple on their pregnancy and gave tips on how to ease the coming months of pregnancy and also on parenting. They skipped the drinking session and left early as it was getting late.

On the way back, Yea Ji had a craving for corndogs and Soo Hyun had to make a dash to a nearby supermarket to get it. It was close to midnight when they got home and while Yea Ji took a shower, Soo Hyun, with his limited cooking skills prepared the corndog to be air-fried. Not forgetting the sauces that his wife would want to have – Ketchup? Chilli? Mustard? He took all sauces out, not knowing what his wife’s taste would be as her tastebuds seem to change with this pregnancy.

The soon-to-be father looked proudly at his very satisfied wife as she nodded and hummed with approval on how nice the food was. That was the least he could do, for the woman who was pregnant with his child.

After fulfilling her craving, the couple cuddled at the couch with Yea Ji sitting sideways on Soo Hyun’s lap. Time passed as they just spent time looking at each other, until she commented with her fingers stroking his curly hair and her other hand on his chest, ‘Jagiya, I hope our baby has natural curly hair like yours.’

With one hand caressing her growing belly and the other massaging her shoulder pulling her closer to his chest and making circles with his thumb, a habit that he started only with her, he said, ‘Our baby can have a natural afro which may get difficult to handle! But it’s ok, Omma loves Appa's curly hair. Appa here has been there and done that, I’d be able to assist our kid in that!’ The words 'Appa’ and 'Omma’ just brought about giggles and smiles to their faces, knowing that they will gain this upgraded status in a few months’ time. It was only natural when they both moved closer to each other and sealed the moment with a kiss.

He went on to massage her legs. Although she did not say anything, he knew that it had been some time since she wore heels, and even without pregnancy, it was painful when worn for a long period of time. His wife had always been one who was most comfortable wearing sneakers. Now with the pregnancy, he knew that her feet would hurt even more and wanted to help ease some of the pain.

Seeing how sweet her husband was, Yea Ji can’t help but feel warm and fuzzy inside. Curious and wanting to tease him, she asked a rhetorical question, ‘Jagiya, how long will you love me?’

With his nimble hands still massaging her legs, he took a while to digest the question that was just asked before replying.

‘How long will I love you?
As long as stars are above you, and longer if I can
How long will I need you?
As long as the seasons need to follow their plan’

He smiled and looked at her, chuckling as he saw his best partner’s smiling face that was clearly pleased by his answer.

‘It’s getting late, we should go to bed,’ he said and proceeded to gently scoop her in his arms. She instinctively encircled her arms around his neck and inhaled her favourite fragrance, his masculine scent, the smell that brought calmness to her.

‘Jagiya, would you still love me even when I go through all these hormonal, emotional and physical changes?’ she asked the obvious, but he could see through her questions. He was not one who likes reading books, but for his family, he has been reading books, asking his peers who have children how he can support his wife through the pregnancy and self-esteem had been a topic that was brought up many times.

He put her down gently on the bed, using his arm to prop himself up, cautious in his movement so as not to make his wife uncomfortable. He looked into her eyes, and replied, ‘A quitter, a regretter and forgetter is everything I'm not. You are the mother of my child, and Seo Yea Ji, you are my beloved, beautiful wife. I'll take care of you and love you just because you and I are better than forever. We made a promise, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until parted by death.’

He turned and laid down beside her and she moved closer, hugging him from her side, the most comfortable position for her now that her growing belly gets in the way. She put her head on his chest, her safe place and looked at her husband’s handsome face.

‘We'll fall deeper in love every day, from life unto life and for always. I'll be there when you need me around, even as our family grows, even when we take a break from acting over the next few years for our family, Jagiya, you'll still have me, my soulmate,’ he embraces her, inhaling the sweet scent from her shampoo, and kissed her temple.

She looked up at him, ‘Kim Soo Hyun-ssi, you talk too much!’ and with her arms on his nape, she pulled him towards her, drawing her lips close to his, starting another hot and steamy night in the house of the Kims.

Chapter Text

‘Good morning sweetheart, I love you.’ The day starts with a greeting and a kiss on her forehead. One that he never failed to do when he wakes up next to her. Ever since she entered his life, sleep had never been better. For her, it was the same.

‘Yeppeuda,’ he chuckled as he lifted a strand of hair that was plastered on her face and tucked it behind her ear. The day is always off to a great start when his wife is the first thing he sees. He took his time, just gazing at her, basking in the beauty of her pregnancy glow.

He smiles, still high from the celebration last night, or rather, the after event that happened in their bedroom after. Reminiscing the wonders of a new way of intimacy that came with the second trimester of pregnancy.

Waking up next to her every morning is a gift that he will always cherish. Even more so, now that they have a baby coming into their life. It sure was different, but it was nothing to complain about since the first trimester had been hard on her. She experienced morning sickness soon after waking up, disturbing her sleep cycle, thereby reducing the frequency of their lovemaking. But now that she’s into her second trimester, she feels less fatigue and morning sickness, allowing the couple to enjoy their mornings together cuddling. And more often than not, those moments of cuddling would lead to a certain type of activity that he missed. These days, he loved how she took the lead in showing that she wants to be intimate with him, usually when she starts to be mischievous, with a sudden peck on his lips, or her hands under his shirt, or even with the gesture he loved the most - when she starts touching his hair with her fingers. Ultimately, he knows that though he yearns for it, totally turned on by the thought of his baby growing in her, he needs to put his wife’s needs first and spare a thought on how she is feeling. With a body that is changing, he allowed her to find a position that was most importantly comfortable for her over his own needs. Deep down, he secretly loved those pregnancy hormones.

‘How was your sleep? Did baby Moon let you sleep well?’ he asked. Yea Ji hummed indicating that she had a good rest. His arms wrapped around her, pulling her body closer to his and he started to rain kisses down her neck. Yea Ji had a collection of adorable sound effects, and his favourite was this special squeak for when she feels tingly from his overpouring of love through his actions. She feels so comfortable as she melts into his embrace. She could smell his masculine scent as she leaned against his chest where she buried her head.

With his palm on his lover’s belly, he started talking to his baby, ‘Gomawo agi-ya, grow healthily and give Omma an easy time every day. Appa can’t wait to see you.’ He proceeded to plant kisses on her belly, that houses their baby, a part of it peeking out from the shirt she was wearing.

‘Are you excited to see Appa too? I see a part of you peeking out here.’ He taps on her belly and continues rattling on and on about how he will bring baby Moon to play bowling and golf, not noticing a familiar figure peeking into the room.

Koko strides into the room, sensing that her owners are awake, she confidently hops up to the bed and starts meowing. She nuzzles her head on Yea Ji's belly and snuggles, making herself comfortable there.

Soo Hyun continues baby-talking to his child in his wife's belly and was about to stroke baby Moon again but this time, he was stopped by Koko who tries to sweep his hand away. He tried once, twice and each time Koko seemed more determined to keep his hand away from Yea Ji’s belly to the amusement of her owners.

'Mwoya? Are you protecting your dongseang? But I am the baby's father! Why am I being stopped by you?' Soo Hyun exclaimed. Yea Ji laughed out loud, amused by her husband’s reaction.

Hearing the commotion in the room, Manny joins in and hops onto the bed. Looking surprised, Yea Ji commented while teasing her husband, 'Look at what you did, I thought we’d have more time to snuggle in bed, but we have more company now...' Manny instinctively places her head next to her owner's belly.

Soo Hyun trying to understand the situation, with his eyes wide open blurted out 'Ige mwoya? Is there a Team Omma and Team Appa ya?'

Yea Ji couldn’t help but chuckle as she witnessed the drama that was happening right in front of her eyes - the interaction between her jealous lover with their possessive furkids.

Soo Hyun whistles and calls out to his dogs Beyonie and Almonie, convinced that the two dogs that have lived with him before marriage would stay by his side. Soon, the white and brown dogs came in and jumped up to their owner. Soo Hyun hugs both of them but as soon as he lets go of them, Beyonie and Almonie make their way to their fellow animal siblings and settle around Yea Ji as well. Their comfortable King-sized bed was now overcrowded, with the King of the house being pushed to the edge of the bed.

'What is this?! I mean, it’s such a scene to have my baby protected by four of you! But I’m Moon’s Appa!' Soo Hyun faked a cry, sulked and sighed, seemingly resigned to fate. It was heart-warming for him to see how even their pets coming together as a family to take care of their precious little one. He takes in the moment, taking time to take some photos of his lovely wife and his unborn child surrounded by their furkids.

Truth be told, their pets have become more affectionate than ever since Yea Ji got pregnant. In fact, even before early pregnancy signs, their furkids seemed to be able to tell that there would soon be a new human sibling in the family. Koko who is known to be quite aloof and independent suddenly started purring and rubbing herself against Yea Ji’s legs. The dogs would be more affectionate towards Yea Ji than usual, following her around and being more protective of Yea Ji.

‘Come here, my sulky big baby’ she teased, stretching out her hands for an embrace, bringing him back to his place – by her side. 'There's no such thing as Team Omma or Team Appa. There's only one Kim family belonging to the both of us here. That's what you want to tell the world isn't it, when you took up the new endorsement for gold in Thailand? Our Kim family is entering the gold industry now I see. I wonder what your fans will be saying... ‘Kim Soo Hyun earning the ‘Kim’ for the family.' she laughed, holding his face in her hands, lightly tousling the back of his hair with her fingers. He smiled, enjoying the little actions his wife knows he loves most.

'Our furkids are determined to protect our baby, but only you are Daddy Kim.' she smiled and held his hand, putting his hand over her belly. There and then, he felt a flutter.

His face lit up with excitement, as he turns to face his wife seemingly to ask if that was the baby kicking. She nodded, affirming what he just felt. 'Our baby knows who you are. Our furkids may be Moon's protector, but you will be the protector of our family. Thank you, for keeping us safe and always providing for us.' she said, as she pulls him in for a long kiss, one that began softly, slowly gaining passion.

‘Jagiya, you know how my shirt can hardly keep my belly in? Looks like I’d have a reason to start wearing your shirts again.’ She said between kisses, putting her hand under his shirt, another sign that they would probably not get out of bed anytime soon.

He chuckled, gazing into her eyes while his thumb stokes the pulse in her neck, enjoying intimate moments like this. Removing his shirt in a flash, he said, 'You can have my shirt, but I know you wouldn’t need it now. Gosh, I really love these pregnancy hormones! Just don’t leave me with a hickey because I’ve got some photoshoots scheduled for the next few days!' She guffaws at his comment, amazed by the dorkiest comments from her husband. He starts chasing their furkids off their bed and out of their room so that the couple can crawl back under the covers, continue with their activities, and later bask in a warm and fuzzy afterglow.

So, their morning started slow, but happiness starts with love from every member of the Kim family with each new day in the Kim's residence. Breakfast? That can wait.

Chapter Text

Things have gotten busy for Soo Hyun as he has started preparing for his new drama ‘Queen of Tears'. He has been away from home researching more about his new character Baek Hyun Woo, with frequent meetings with the director, producer and scriptwriter to frame his mind on how he would go about acting out this character, a rich husband married to a chaebol, one he has not acted as before. Being one of the highest-paid actors in South Korea with a long list of accolades under his belt, the time of preparation and familiarising himself with this unique character, rehearsing and memorising lines to express emotions through his acting was of utmost importance.

Watching him work with such fervour made her fall in love with him again. It was one of the characteristics she found attractive about him and his passion in doing his best in his projects was something she had always looked up to. She saw it once, when they worked on their first commercial together, then again when they acted together in ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’.

As agreed between the couple, this time, she would be the one taking care of their dogs, their houses and of course, her lover. The couple had decided to take turns to rest and recharge while the other is hard at work, just like when he acted in ‘One Ordinary Day’ and after filming was done, she filmed her next project ‘Eve’. They took time to assess the scripts and CFs they were offered and kept each other in mind in the decision-making process. It was one thing to take up roles that allow them to grow and develop as an actor, but another to respect their partner and to make sure that they were comfortable with allowing each other go through certain scenes, especially those that required physical touches. They were mature enough as professional actors and they loved each other enough not to stand in the way of their careers. Respect, trust and honesty would be the fundamental elements of their relationship.

Being the one who had more time on her hands now, she took time to learn how to cook, something she has always been keen on doing, but this time, she was making it for a special someone. Whenever he texts to say he will be back home for the night before leaving the next morning, she would prepare bento boxes and a jar containing warm health drinks for him to bring along during this cold winter season. She made an effort to make the bento boxes colourful, cute and would sometimes leave him love notes that would make his day.

He loves tonkatsu, it is an open secret that he has announced to his fans and his favourite late-night snack; half boiled egg that has to be cooked in the magic time of 6 minutes and 48 seconds. It was no surprise that these two food items were often found in his bento boxes at least once a week.

Today is going to be different. Soo Hyun had specially taken time off and requested to clear his schedule for the next three days to spend time with his lover. It is Valentine’s day and in two days, his 35th birthday! They planned to visit her parents today as it has been quite some time since he last visited them and her sisters’ family will also be there as well.

He wakes up from his slumber, hoping to cuddle in bed with his lover but to his dismay, she had already left the bed. It does not take long for him to realise that she had already started her day in the kitchen. His nose picks up the most tantalising smells that made his stomach growl. He smiled to himself as he gets out of bed with a spring in his step, looking forward to the long-awaited time they will spend together over the next few days.

‘We should still be cuddling in bed you know,’ he hugs her from behind putting his hands around her waist and rests his head on her shoulder as she takes out the banchan that her mum had so lovingly prepared. Grinning at his goofy comments, she replied, ‘If we do that, we won’t be able to leave the house as planned!’ Laughing at her reply, he gets interested in the food that she has prepared.

‘Wow! What a feast for the morning!’ his eyes widened as he looked at the many banchan displayed before him. A special bowl caught his attention, and it looked like what they had tried during his last fan meeting in Tokyo. She tried to remake the rice bowl that made him swoon over. Even when they came back to Korea, he kept raving about it to his friends and colleagues at Gold Medalist. The rice bowl consists of a slab of crispy deep-fried pork katsu, slices of bacon and instead of the usual sunny-side-up egg, she had replaced it with the type of egg he loves most, all these resting on a bed of piping hot rice and crunchy shredded cabbage.

‘Gomawo, nae sarang,’ he closed the distance between their lips and their kiss escalated to a passionate one until Yea Ji pulled back and giggled, ‘Not that I don’t want this now, but we got to leave in an hour! We’ve got no time to waste!’ She ended with a peck on his lips and went to get changed, leaving Soo Hyun to enjoy his hearty breakfast.

Just as they were about to leave her house, she realises that she forgot to bring something. ‘Jagi, wait for me at the lobby, I’d be right back!’ She rushes towards the fridge and brought along a cake to bring to her parent's place.

He finds the cake familiar and offers to take the cake for her. She passes it to him and he exclaims, ‘Ah! You’re bringing the cake that Hyunjis gave us! I should have brought mine as well.’ ‘The girls will love this. The last time when I brought those Seollal themed macarons that Hong Kong Hyunjis gifted us, they went squealing about how cute the macarons were and they loved the sweet treat! Eonnie will nag at me for letting them eat those, but the cake will make a nice dessert for us after dinner,’ She flashes her crescent-eyed smile.

True enough, what she predicted did happen, but everyone in the house was all smiles as they could finally come together to have a meal and spend time together. The cake is now taken out after dinner and Yeaji’s elder niece proudly exclaimed, ‘Ee-mo, I know who sent this cake! There’s the sticker of you and Sam Chon, so it must be from Hyunjis!’ making Soo Hyun chuckle. ‘Smart girl! Wow, now you are able to figure out who sent us gifts. Soon you’d be identifying all the fans who sent your Ee-mo those bracelets and shirts she’s wearing!’ He mischievously teased his girlfriend, knowing full well how appreciative she is when fans send her items, outpouring their love to her. Deep down, he was thankful for them too.

After the day out at her parents’ house, they made their way back for some time alone. Going home with Soo Hyun in the driver’s seat of the car, their hands just seem to find each other, intertwined, throughout the drive back.

Hand in hand, they took the lift up to her apartment. When the lift door opened, Yea Ji was surprised to see a large bouquet of flowers that she loved placed at the door. Soo Hyun picked it up and offered it to her. Seeing her gleam with happiness made him smile too, and his body instinctively leans in to engulf her in a hug.

‘Yea Ji ah, Gomawo. Thank you for preparing those bento meals for me these days. I know much thought is taken into meal preparation, making sure that I have a balanced meal and am physically fed, and those love notes, I’ve kept every one of them and will continue to do so, because they are healing to my soul. This energy I received from you, helps me so much at work.’ His hands patting her back as he hugs her.

Standing back in front of her while holding both of her hands and caressing them, he continued, ‘It means so much to me when you post photos of the items sent by Hyunjis. I love it when you acknowledge their presence, because it acknowledges us, me and you. Because all of the small things that you do are what remind me why I fell for you. And when we're apart, and I'm missing you, I close my eyes and all I see is you, and the small things you do. When we're done making love and you look up and give me those eyes, the way you look at me makes my heart melt.

I can’t wait for the day I spend forever with you, to call you my wife, and the mother of our children. You make me feel warm, happy and satisfied,’ he said with a smile and with tears welling in his eyes.

Looking at him with emotional eyes filled with gratitude, she cupped his face with both hands, ‘You’ve also done so much for me, the things you did behind the scenes, your invisible protective shield from the media. I know it’s you, Soo Hyun. I know what happened after the red carpet mishap at Buil Film Awards, even during the time when I was gaslighted, and recently when I had my comeback filming ‘Eve’. You were there, making sure I was ok and you taught me not to care so much about what others think about me. You took care of me at my lowest and taught me how to take care of myself, physically, emotionally and mentally.’

‘Even though now you’re getting busy with your new project, I'm here, you're there but your love is with me everywhere I go. My love will follow you everywhere. My love won't stop, it has no breaks. Strong is what we are whenever we're apart, I'll be right where you are, I'm in your heart. So don't you worry about a thing, or all the miles in between. You have my heart, you had it from the start, I love you from afar or near and everywhere I know that you will still be there, deep inside my heart.’ She said, pointing at her chest.

‘Now, why are we crying on a happy day like this?!’ Soo Hyun commented and chuckled while cleaning off his tears and wiping tears off her pretty face. ‘Let’s go in and enjoy the next few days together, starting from now!’ He carries her bridal style into the house, leaving her to gasp and giggle, excited by the thought of the activities they would be doing together.

The power from these small collected memories will continue to be a wonderful reminder for them; things that lift each other’s spirits, to stay strong and never give up on each other even when they are apart. Two committed people with a longing for each other will always end up falling ever deeper in love, a communion of two hearts when the yearning for each other is met.

Chapter Text

Ko Moon Young and Moon Gang Tae had come a long way from their troubled past. They had overcome all their trauma and had grown in love over the years. The two decided to take their relationship to the next level by getting married.

Their wedding was the talk of the town, not just because of their fame but also due to the unique theme they chose for their wedding. Their wedding was completely based on the theme of "It’s okay to not be okay," which was the title of their first drama together. The wedding was filled with flowers and vibrant colors that reflected their journey and how they had blossomed into an inseparable couple.

After their wedding, Moon Gang Tae became a full-time author, while Ko Moon Young continued writing her books. Their life together was peaceful, and they were happy with each other. While reading books and taking care of her plants, Ko Moon Young looked forward to starting a family with Moon Gang Tae.

One day, she announced to her husband that she wanted to have children, which made Moon Gang Tae very happy. They decided to begin their journey towards parenthood, which involved a lot of research and doctor visits. After several months of trying, they were overjoyed to learn that Ko Moon Young was pregnant.

Throughout her pregnancy, Moon Gang Tae was always by her side, taking care of her and their growing child. He was delighted when they found out that they were going to have twins, a boy and a girl.

As their due date approached, they were both anxious and excited to become parents. On the day of the delivery, they walked hand in hand into the hospital waiting room. After a few hours, they were called into the delivery room to meet their beautiful babies.

Moon Gang Tae held his newborn son in his arms, while Ko Moon Young cradled their daughter. They both wept with joy as they stared into their children's eyes. The couple named their son Jae-Sung and their daughter Yoon-Seo, both of which held special meanings for the couple.

Their life together as a family of four was everything they had ever wanted. Together, they raised their children with love and care, teaching them to be kind and to embrace who they are despite their flaws.

Years later, Jae-Sung and Yoon-Seo grew up to be talented children with bright futures ahead of them. Ko Moon Young and Moon Gang Tae watched with pride as their children pursued their dreams, always thankful for the gift of parenthood they had been given.

They knew that life would never be perfect, and that there would be challenges along the way, but they were grateful for the strength they had gained from their past experiences. As they sat together as a family, watching the sunset, they knew that their love would always carry them through whatever may come their way.

Chapter Text

She carefully unwrapped the pregnancy kit and followed the instructions, keeping a watchful eye on the timer. Her heart was beating faster and faster with each passing moment as she wondered how he would react. She knew that he loved their little family, which included their cat Koko and their dogs Manny, Beyonie, and Almonie, but having a baby would be a whole new adventure.
As the timer beeped, Yea Ji took a deep breath and looked at the stick. The plus sign was clearly visible, indicating that she was indeed pregnant. She couldn't wait to share the news with her beloved husband.

Yea Ji was filled with excitement and anticipation as she prepared to tell Soo Hyun the life-changing news. She carefully placed the pregnancy kit in a box and called out to him, who was in another room playing with their pets.

"Jagi, I have a surprise for you!" she said, beaming with excitement. Yea Ji took a deep breath before speaking, "I want to tell you something, but I am not sure how you will react."

"Tell me what it is," he urged with growing curiosity and ran over to her as their pets trailed behind him.

She fidgeted before handing him a small package. It was a pregnancy kit.

Soo Hyun opened the box and stared at the kit for a few seconds, letting the news sink in. His eyes grew wide with surprise as he realised what that meant. "Are you telling me you're pregnant?"

Yea Ji nodded, feeling emotional and overjoyed. She was surprised when he threw his arms around her, lifting her off the ground in a bear hug, surrounded by their furry friends who seemed to sense that something big was happening.

"Oh my God! You are pregnant," he exclaimed, his voice choked with emotion. It felt like all the love and joy in the world had washed over him at that moment. They had talked about starting a family many times before, but it always felt like something that was still in the future.

Yea Ji giggled in his embrace, feeling her worries dissipate as she looked into the adoring eyes of her husband. "Happy Father's Day, my love," she said, placing a hand over her belly.

Soo Hyun had always wanted to be a father, but he never imagined he would receive such a seemingly impossible gift as a Father's Day surprise. As he held Yea Ji in his arms, tears flowed down his face.

"I am going to be a father," he muttered, repeating the words again and again as if he couldn't believe the joyous news.

She wrapped her arms around him, her own eyes welling up with happy tears. Father's Day had turned out to be more special than either of them could have ever imagined. Soo Hyun held her close and kissed her on the forehead. He was overjoyed and couldn't stop smiling, feeling grateful for the gift of becoming a father on Father's Day.

Together, with excitement in their hearts, they began planning for the next chapter of their life. Soo Hyun was already promising the baby a lifetime of unconditional love and endless memories, and Yea Ji was already envisioning their child's nursery decorated with the softest blankets and the cutest toys.

As the day went on, Soo Hyun couldn't stop thinking about his impending fatherhood. He felt a sense of responsibility, happiness, and nervousness all rolled into one. His wife was incredibly reassuring, however, holding his hand and telling him that they were in this together knowing full well that there was a sense of fear because of what he had been through. His parents were divorced and he grew up being brought up by his mother. Growing up in a single-parent household left him wondering what it would be like to have a father figure in his life. He watched as his friends had dads to teach them how to play sports or share advice about girls, but for him, it was just him and his mom.

It was not until he met Yea Ji’s parents, that he understood parental love in a way he had never experienced before. Yea Ji's dad taught him how to play golf, and her mom shared stories about their family trips. Even before they were married, Yea Ji’s parents would invite him to go on trips and have family dinners together. These moments filled a void that he had during his growing years. Soo Hyun knows that not everyone gets a second chance at parental love, and he is determined to bring up his children with the love and support that he has received from his new family.

"We'll be great parents, Soo Hyun," she said, stroking his hair. "We've got each other's backs, and there's nothing we can't handle."

Her words gave him the strength and confidence he needed, and he hugged her tightly. "Thank you for making this day, my first Father’s Day, so special," he said, finding himself choked up with emotion.

Together, they sat in silence for a while, basking in the glow of Father's Day and the news of their baby. Soo Hyun knew that his life would change drastically, but he also knew that he had everything he needed in his wife and child.

As they snuggled up on the couch, enjoying the warmth and love of their little family, Yea Ji and Soo Hyun knew that they were blessed beyond measure. They were grateful for the gift of life, and for the love and companionship that their pets, Koko, Manny, Beyonie, and Almonie brought into their lives. But the thought of their future, the immense joy they would feel as they hold their baby in their arms would surpass all other gifts they could ever receive.

Together, they embarked on a new chapter full of hope, joy, and wonder. And they knew that with each passing day, their love and family would continue to grow. As the sun set outside, he leaned in for a tender kiss, grateful for the love that surrounded him.

Chapter Text

‘Hyung, we need to get some of these snacks back! Thankfully we can still buy some of these at the airport before we fly off. Yea Ji and the other GM mates will love these snacks!’ Soo Hyun pointed at his phone which showed a few snacks that Thailand is famous for – Pork floss stick, Mama noodles, Egg roll wafer with pork floss and some flavours of Lays potato chips which are only available in Thailand.

‘Oh, wait, Yea Ji texted to remind me just now and she’d will be upset if I forget! We have to get Green Curry paste and Tom Yum paste too! I got them from some fans on my last trip here and she whipped up a feast with these when her family came over the last time. It was super delicious!’ He continued rattling on with excitement in his voice.

‘Soo Hyun ah, why didn’t you tell me earlier! Then we got to be quick! You can just stand over there and wait for us. We’ll grab these items for you or else you’d end up looking at other items and we’d miss our flight!’ Manager Ryu chided him and pointed at where he should wait.

Sighing, Soo Hyun obediently followed his manager’s instructions. He knew that his hyung was right. He would most likely do that if he were to enter the shop and browse through the items. So, he stood there looking at the items from afar, with his hands on his hips, and waited for his staff to get the items needed before boarding the flight back. His mind drifted off and he imagined how it would be when he reunites with his lover back home in the evening.

‘Oh! I can update my Instagram and post the sunrise photos that I sent to Yea Ji while waiting,’ He thought to himself. No caption was needed for those pictures. They had always been private about their relationship but there were also times when subtle hints were dropped every now and then through their Instagram and fan café updates.

'Sky' held a special meaning for them especially since the tvN’s Q&A interview where he created a Sam Haeng Si, a three-line poem from her character’s name, Ko Moon Young. He totally impressed her and the staff who were filming them that day with his quick-wittedness! HyunJi fans went wild after viewing the Bonus Cut which was actually unreleased for overseas. When Soo Hyun reopened his Instagram account, many started to realise that he would post pictures of the sky and fans were quick to realise that there was more to it than meets the eye. Soon after, ‘Sky’ was coined as ‘Seo Yea Ji, Kim Soo Hyun, Yeongwonhi’ by HyunJi fans.

‘All done, let’s go!’ hearing that, Soo Hyun followed his staff and texted Yea Ji while making his way to the boarding gate, ‘I miss you so much! I’m going to board the plane soon. See you at home for dinner.’

After settling down at his seat, he checked his message to Yea Ji before switching his phone to airplane mode and realised the message has not been read. ‘Maybe she’s busy with something,’ he thought.

The first thing he did upon arriving in Seoul was to check if Yea Ji replied to his message. To his surprise, the message was still unread. That made him worried, and he decided to call her instead. The phone rang a few times before she weakly answered, her voice filled with discomfort. "Hello?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. Soo Hyun's worry deepened as he heard the pain in her voice. From the sound of her voice, he could tell, ‘It’s the time of the month isn’t it?’ he asked. ‘Hmm, it’s okay, I’m okay. Are you back in Seoul already?’

His heart ached, and Soo Hyun's protective instincts kicked in. ‘Yea, I just arrived and I’m coming over. I’d get you some Moon Juk for dinner. It'll help soothe your pain," he reassured her, determined to make her feel better.

He took Manager Ryu to make a stop at a store that sold Juk and arranged for the driver to send him to Yea Ji’s house. Before he left, as usual, Manager Ryu would tell him to be careful about the media spotting him at her apartment.

When he arrived at Yea Ji's door, pale and weary, she greeted him with a weak smile. He put down the food on the dining table and hugged her.

‘I wish there was something I could do to make you feel better,’ Soo Hyun murmured sympathetically, his voice filled with concern as he softly caressed her back, hoping to provide some relief.

Yea Ji turned her head to look at him, a small smile playing on her lips. ‘Just having you here, holding me close, already makes me feel better. Thank you, Soo Hyun.’
He gently ushered Yea Ji to the couch, tucking a soft blanket around her trembling body. Carefully, he placed the porridge on the coffee table, the aroma filling the air. Soo Hyun sat beside her, wrapping an arm around her shoulder, offering comfort and support.
As they enjoyed the nourishing meal, Soo Hyun massaged her aching back, using gentle strokes to alleviate the tension and pain. Yea Ji leaned into his touch, finding solace in his warm presence.
After finishing dinner, he carried her to bed and took charge of the household chores. He prepared her favourite soothing herbal tea, ensuring that she stayed hydrated and had something warm in her stomach while he took a shower after a long day.

As they cuddled in their cozy bed, Yea Ji's face would sometimes crease with discomfort as she coped with the painful grips of menstrual cramps. Sensing her distress, he gently placed a hand on her abdomen, hoping that his touch would alleviate her pain as she continued to rest her head on his chest.

Soo Hyun held her close, silently offering his presence as a soothing balm to her discomfort. He gently stroked her hair and talked about his time abroad, hoping to distract her from the pain.

‘I bought what you wanted, those pastes that you used to make Green Curry and Tom Yum soup that your parents really liked! Can’t wait to taste that again, because I know for sure that you’re getting better and better at cooking and it’s going to taste better than the last! Maybe next time you can open a restaurant and add these two Thai dishes in the menu!’ he teased causing Yea Ji to crack up despite the discomfort that surrounded her.
Soo Hyun saw a glimpse of relief in Seo Yea Ji's eyes. He knew he was making progress. As he gently rubbed her stomach, their eyes locked, and a smile formed on Seo Yea Ji's face, casting away the pain. ‘Jagiya, are you feeling better?’ with his hand still on her abdomen. ‘Ne, you are so warm,’ she said, repeating the famous line that Ko Moon Young said to Moon Gang Tae when he came to her rescue after walking many hours in the rain.

With every passing minute, Yea Ji felt a sense of relief, not just in her body but also in her heart. The physical pain seemed to lessen, replaced by the warmth of her lover’s love and care. They stayed like that for a while, enjoying the warmth of each other's bodies and finding solace in their bond.

Soo Hyun's dedication and attentive care made her realize just how lucky she was to have him in her life. He was always there in her darkest and weakest moments. Soo Hyun understood Yea Ji's pain like no one else could, and he would always be there to provide solace and comfort during her toughest moments.

Even though they were apart when he was overseas, he would often drop her a text to update how things are going and would also ask how her day went. With a heart overflowing with gratitude, she pulled him closer, resting her head against his chest, and whispered heartfelt words of thanks.

As the minutes ticked by, the conversation naturally shifted, and the topic of their future came into focus. Yea Ji traced small circles on Soo Hyun's chest, her fingers moving rhythmically.

‘Jagiya, have you ever thought about how many children we would have someday?’ she asked, curiosity lacing her words. He chuckled softly, looking deep into her eyes. ‘Definitely. I can already imagine our little ones running around, bringing laughter and joy to our lives.’

Yea Ji's face lit up with a smile, her eyes shining brightly. ‘I want a big family, with at least three children. We can have a house filled with love and happy chaos.’ Soo Hyun nodded, his voice filled with absolute certainty. ‘Three sounds perfect. We'll raise them to be strong, kind, and compassionate individuals. They'll grow up knowing they are loved unconditionally.’

She snuggled even closer to him, envisioning their ideal future. ‘I can imagine our evenings filled with laughter, family dinners, and bedtime stories. I want to create beautiful memories with our children, just like the ones my parents gave me.’

‘I promise you, Yea Ji,’ Soo Hyun whispered, his voice laced with determination. ‘We'll create a loving and nurturing environment for our children. We'll give them the childhood they deserve. How about we take things a little further by giving them names that start with the letters S, K and Y?’ he suggested, making Yea Ji face light up, her giggles mixing with joy as she smacks his chest surprised by his ridiculous suggestion. ‘Ah, looks like someone has regained her strength already!’

As the night descended, the couple stayed wrapped in each other's arms, silently dreaming of the future they would build together as a family, with Soo Hyun being a dork as always, suggesting names to call their children Kim Sang Mi, one of Yea Ji’s characters that she played, or Kim Kiyomi or Kim Yeppeuda.

Soon, the talkative Soo Hyun started to talk less and less till he fell asleep. Yea Ji smiled as she looked at him peacefully sleeping, with a comforting feeling of contentment and gratitude. She couldn't help but admire the beautiful bond they shared, feeling fortunate to have such a caring partner by her side.

Her hand then descends to his cheek, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her palm. As she caresses his cheek, her fingers lightly brush against his stubble, creating a gentle sensation on her fingertips. The touch reflects both familiarity and admiration, as she cherishes every detail of his face.

Moving her hand with utmost care, she trails her fingers along his jawline, savouring the structure and roughness that defines his masculine features. The softness of her touch lets him know, even in his slumber, that he too is safe, cherished, and deeply loved by her.

As her hand continues its journey, her fingertips explore his lips, relishing their softness and the memories they have shared through kisses and whispered words of affection. Time seems to stand still in this moment as her touch lingers and her heart swells with gratitude for the presence of Soo Hyun beside her.

In this intimate and tender act, Yea Ji conveys her deep appreciation and gratitude for Soo Hyun’s presence in her life. She cupped his face with her hands and planted a kiss on his lips. ‘Jal ja, nae sim jang’.

With the pain of her menstrual cramps subsiding and their hopes for the future intertwining, she knew that even though she faced physical and emotional pain, he not only understood her professional struggles but also held her hand during the vulnerable moments, ensuring her fears evaporated like mist in the air. Yea Ji knew that she had a partner who would always be there, providing comfort and unwavering support to face the rest of tomorrows together, with her hand in his.

Chapter Text

As he embarked on his journey to Germany, Soo Hyun’s heart was filled with bittersweet emotions. On one hand, he was excited about exploring Berlin again and immersing himself in his character, Baek Hyun Woo. On the other hand, he couldn't help but feel a sense of longing for his beloved girlfriend, Yea Ji. The thought of being apart for three long weeks weighed heavily on his heart. He was feeling both nervous and excited as he prepared for his grand plan.

From the days when they first connected while filming an advertisement to spending time together filming ‘It’s Okay To Not Be Okay’, Soo Hyun felt an undeniable connection with Yea Ji. Her infectious laughter, mesmerising gaze, and genuine talent had him completely smitten. Determined to express his feelings, he devised a plan to propose to her in the most romantic and unforgettable way. This work trip would not only test his professional skills but also bring about the most significant moment in his personal life. The first part of filming will be long and tiring, but the last five days would be less demanding as there will be lesser scenes for his character. He planned to fly her in so that they will be able to spend those days together in Berlin.

Soo Hyun had been filming for two long weeks, and amidst the bustling city, he found himself deeply missing his girlfriend, Yea Ji. In the midst of his hectic filming schedule, there were several nights where filming would last until the wee hours of the morning to capture important scenes. Exhaustion began to take its toll on his body and mind. Yea Ji, being intuitive and caring, noticed the fatigue in his voice during their daily messages and video calls. Concern filled her heart as she yearned to be by his side, offering comfort and support. But little did she know, there was a hidden agenda behind his plea for her to join him in Germany for his heart yearned to make Yea Ji his forever.

He knew that if he shared his vulnerable state with Yea Ji, she would drop everything and rush to his side. Taking a deep breath, Soo Hyun dialled Yea Ji's number and put on his best sick voice. "Yea Ji, I'm feeling so sick and exhausted. I wish you were here to take care of me, but I understand if it's too much to ask."

Upon hearing her boyfriend's forlorn voice, Yea Ji's heart melted and made plans to fly all the way to Berlin, unable to bear the thought of Soo Hyun suffering alone. She called Manager Ryu to inform him of her plans and was a little surprised when he replied that he would do the booking for her and gave her the details of the next available flight. Yea Ji being herself, did not think much about it and went along with what had been planned.

After a long flight and a car ride that was arranged to pick her up from the airport, she finally arrived at the hotel room. Yea Ji could hardly contain her excitement of being with her lover again. She waited for a moment after pressing the doorbell. The door swung open and she found herself face-to-face with Soo Hyun, who was waiting anxiously, a small velvet box tucked in his pocket. Tears welled up in his eyes as he pulled her into an embrace. She had gone to such lengths to be by his side to take care of him. He knew without a doubt, that she was the one he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.

He broke the embrace and his heart raced as he dropped down on one knee, his eyes shining with love and adoration. With a trembling voice filled with love and sincerity, Soo Hyun took a deep breath and said, "Yea Ji, being apart from you has made me realize just how much you mean to me. The moment I met you, everything changed. You've become my rock, my confidante, and my everything. In this moment, being so far away from home and experiencing the depths of my love for you, I realise I can't imagine a life without you. Will you do me the honour of becoming my wife? Will you marry me?"

Yea Ji's eyes filled with tears of happiness. She never anticipated such a surprise, and she couldn't help but nod vigorously, a broad grin spreading across her face. "Yes, a thousand times yes!" she exclaimed, unable to contain her happiness. Soo Hyun slipped the ring onto her finger, sealing their love in an eternal bond. In that tender moment, they sealed their commitment with a passionate kiss, the echoes of their love resonating through the silent hotel room.

As they basked in the euphoria of their engagement, Yea Ji couldn't help but tease her now-fiancé, putting her hand on his chest she asked, "Is being sick just an excuse, Kim Soo Hyun? Are you sure you didn't plan this all along?"

With a mischievous twinkle in his eyes, Soo Hyun chuckled. "Well, my fiancé, I may have been a little sneaky, but it was all because of love-sickness. No doctor could help when I'm lovesick, but you. I couldn't bear to spend another day without you by my side."

That night, in a hotel room in Berlin, laughter filled the air as they playfully bantered back and forth, their love and happiness radiating from their souls. Tired as they were, they shared sweet kisses and stolen glances, cherishing this once-in-a-lifetime moment on this very night before he had to resume his filming schedule the next day. Soo Hyun and Yea Ji knew that they would embark on an extraordinary journey together. Through sickness and health, they would continue to support and uplift one another, creating a future filled with endless kisses, giggles, and boundless love.

Berlin forever remained a city that held not only memories of their engagement, but also where they took their first photo as an engaged couple with the breathtaking illuminated Brandenburg Gate as their backdrop. The photo that Soo Hyun would later post in his Instagram to share the news about the magical beginning of their union that would endure for a lifetime.

Chapter Text

Soo Hyun stared at the message that was sent from his manager, his heart sinking with disappointment as he waited for his hair stylist to do up his hair for the next scene. His filming schedule remained hectic and his latest project ‘Queen of Tears’ was scheduled to end in September 2023, but due to some issues, it has been extended till January 2024. It meant more work, more late nights, and less time with his beloved girlfriend, Yea Ji.

As a professional actor, Soo Hyun understood that these unexpected changes were often needed to enhance the story and create a better viewing experience for the audience. But deep in his heart, he couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness at the thought of being away from Yea Ji for even longer.

He knew Yea Ji would be understanding, as she experienced similar situations in her own acting career. They had always supported each other's dreams, knowing that sacrifices would have to be made along the way. But no matter how professional Soo Hyun was, he couldn't deny the longing for more quality time with his girlfriend, especially during this extended period of separation.
Memories flashed through his mind of their rare moments together in the past few weeks including the rare occasion when he flew her in to Germany to spend some time together while he was filming there. Their laughter-filled dinners, nights spent cuddling on the couch, and the way Yea Ji's eyes sparkled when she would surprise him with small gestures of love. She was his rock, his confidante, and his best friend, and he missed her more than words could express.

With a heavy sigh, Soo Hyun gathered his thoughts and prepared to face the reality of demanding work. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but he was determined to give his all on set as he always does. He silently reminded himself that it was these challenging moments that would push him to grow as an actor.

Throughout the long days of filming, Soo Hyun poured his heart and soul into his character, drawing on the love and support he shared with Yea Ji. They often exchanged heartfelt messages and fleeting phone calls during breaks, offering each other words of encouragement and reminding each other of the strong bond they shared. With each passing day, as he scrolled through their cherished photos and recalled their most cherished memories together, he yearned for more time with Yea Ji.

Yea Ji, although proud of his achievements, felt a significant void in her life without him by her side. They were independent in their own way, and his success brought her joy, but that meant that they had to sacrifice precious moments together. They both knew how important it was to cherish every moment they had. She knew how much he looked forward to meeting her but instead of spiralling down with these thoughts, she reminded him of the well-deserved break they will have with the upcoming Chuseok holiday. Although he was exhausted, the thought of spending quality time with her warmed his heart.

Soo Hyun channeled his yearning for Yea Ji into his character, infusing every scene with a raw emotion that resonated deeply with the audience. He knew that his sacrifice would be worth it if he could touch even one person's heart with his portrayal.

One sunny autumn day, as Soo Hyun was engrossed in his acting duties, he glanced at the calendar hanging on his trailer wall. Right after Chuseok, was an anniversary date circled in red that caught his attention. It reminded him that it will be 10 years since Yea Ji stepped foot into the acting world. Soo Hyun's heart swelled with pride and love for his talented girlfriend, and he knew he had to make the time they get to spend together this holiday special.

He took some time during breaks to browse through gift baskets and health products and got his manager to order them for Gold Medalist staff and actors, not forgetting his and her family members. He stopped short at buying snacks and cakes knowing that their fans would send them gifts that would fill the front desk of their Gold Medalist office.

Finally, after a long week of filming, the crew ended the day early in the evening. Soo Hyun picked up some items before returning home, exhausted but excited to see Yea Ji. As he stepped through the front door, the enticing aroma of his favourite homecooked food filled the air. The sight of Yea Ji, standing in the kitchen, brought an instant smile to his face - this scene he yearned to see every day of his life. In his hands, he held a bouquet of flowers and on the other, colourful balloons with a box of Songpyeon. He put down the items and stealthily stood behind her.
‘Annyeong, nae simjang,’ Soo Hyun whispered, causing Yea Ji to giggle and turn around to face him. They embraced each other tightly relishing in each other's warmth and presence, and leaned in for a kiss. She felt the warmth of his embrace knowing that despite his busy schedule, he still found time to make her feel loved and cherished.

‘What are you cooking?’ he asked.

‘I’m making some Japchae to bring over to Omma's place later. After I’m done with this, let’s look through the gifts our loving fans sent. There will be some that we can bring to share with the girls. We can leave home at 7pm,’ she answered and told him her plans.

‘Sure thing, I’d take a shower first!‘ and stole a peck on her lips before running off.

As she cleaned up the kitchen, Soo Hyun began sorting out the gifts. True enough, there were many sweet treats to be shared with her nieces and there were many artistic gifts that left him in awe. Yea Ji couldn’t stop giggling when she heard him exclaim with the many ‘Wow’s and ‘Oooo’s when he looked through the gifts they had received. She joined him soon after and couldn’t help laughing as she opened up the gift meant for Koko. She lifted the clothing and motioned for Koko to come to her. Koko strode over and Yea Ji eventually managed fit the clothing onto Koko. The couple burst into laughter when they saw Koko bursting in the clothing.

‘Looks like we really need to put her on a diet now…’ Yea Ji blurted out in between her laughs. Koko, still oblivious to what is to come lies down on the floor, grateful for the elastic band that enabled her to fit into the clothing.

As they looked through the gifts, gratitude filled their hearts. Soo Hyun wanting to tease Yea Ji commented, ‘Looks like I need to put in more effort in thinking about the gifts for you. Your fans and ours, are giving such thoughtful and meaningful ones! These gifts have outshined mine,’ he teased while pointing at the balloons that he brought in. Yea Ji did not notice the balloons and flowers that he brought in when he arrived home.

Cupping his face, she said ‘Mianhae, jagi! You know I love all your gifts right?’ He pouted and stood up to bring the balloons and flowers to her. Still wanting to tease her he said ‘See how these fades in comparison to the gifts they sent?’ and pouted.

Yea Ji seeing through his childish antics decided to play along with him. She chuckled saying, ‘Cheeky dork, you know how exactly this is gonna end…’ and whispered into his ear what he wanted to hear most from her, ‘You are my best gift.’ He smiled, satisfied with her answer. Their kiss started softly, building in intensity as the connection deepened, yet preserving a gentle and caring touch throughout. The intimacy that they so longed for left a lingering sensation, as if time stood still, creating an electrifying and unforgettable moment of pure intimacy.

As they broke the kiss, he nudged his nose against hers and whispered ‘I have a surprise for you.’ She looked at him in astonishment, ‘Aren’t those already the gifts?’

‘Surely your best gift would have thought of something that is more everlasting than those,’ he said with a smile playing on his lips. He whipped out a jewellery box, ‘Open it,’ he urged. She looked at the gift with delight in her eyes.

‘Diamonds are known to be symbolic for 10 years because they symbolise strength and durability.’ Soo Hyun's heart was filled with admiration for his girlfriend as he spoke. ‘I know the sacrifices you have made for your career and how hard you’ve worked to reach this milestone. Happy 10th year anniversary, my love’, Soo Hyun whispered and leaned forward to hug her.

Tears welled up in her eyes as her brain registered the comforting gesture from her beau. She began to say while hugging Soo Hyun, ‘Hurtful, painful memories, memories of deep regret, memories of hurting others and being hurt, and memories of being abandoned, only those with such memories buried in their hearts can become stronger, more passionate, and emotionally flexible. Only those people can attain happiness. So don’t forget any of it. Remember it all and overcome it. If you don’t overcome it, you’ll always be a kid whose soul never grows,’ she wiped away her tears as she quoted these lines from the show they acted together ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’. With her iconic crescent moon eyes, a smile flickered across her face and she giggled, ‘And I also have you,’ presenting him with the greatest smile that melted his heart.

He left a peek on her cheek and wiped away her tears. With a glint in his eye, he scooped her up and carried her bridal style which made her squeal with laughter, ‘Now, we have to get you cleaned up before we get to your parents’ place. I wouldn’t want them to think I made you cry!’

To be continued…

Chapter Text

As the autumn breeze gently rustled through the trees, Soo Hyun and Yea Ji found themselves driving through the familiar roads where she used to walk on. The road that goes to her elementary school and the neighbourhood mall that she would frequent with her sister on the way back home from school. Passing by the supermarket that her parents would bring them to when they had to stock up on their groceries for the week brought back fond memories of the time she was growing up. The couple will be spending their Chuseok holiday with Yea Ji's family, for Soo Hyun, it was a much-needed break from filming "Queen of Tears" and he knew that spending time with her family would help him recharge and rejuvenate.

Yea Ji hummed along to a song playing on the car radio, her eyes sparkling with excitement. The car pulled up in front of her parent’s house, and before they could unload the items they had brought, Yea Ji's parents and nieces came out of the house and eagerly welcomed them with warm smiles and open arms.

Inside the house, the air was filled with the aroma of traditional Chuseok foods. The table was adorned with various dishes and a variety of banchan. Yea Ji's mother had prepared a feast fit for a king, knowing that Soo Hyun had been tirelessly working on his drama. The Songpyeon that Soo Hyun brought as a gift for the family was also added to the dining table.

As they gathered around the table, Yea Ji's mother couldn't resist teasing the couple. "Soo Hyun-ah, thank you for the gifts! By any chance, did you make this Songpyeon by hand?" she asked mischievously. "It's a popular belief that those who succeed in making beautifully shaped Songpyeon will give birth to a beautiful child or have a successful marriage."

Yea Ji blushed slightly, leaving no doubt that her mother's question was aimed at subtly hinting for Soo Hyun to marry her daughter and start a family. Yea Ji's sister quickly sensed the awkwardness and tried to salvage the situation.

"Omma, let's not put Soo Hyun on the spot," she said with a smile. "We all know they're happy together, and when the time is right, they can start thinking about starting a family. Let's not push them too hard," she said with a chuckle. "We should just enjoy this precious time together as a family."

Soo Hyun blushed, feeling a mix of embarrassment and amusement. He glanced towards Yea Ji, his eyes filled with love as he replied, "Ommonim, I haven't made Songpyeon before, but I'm more than ready to start a family with Yea Ji. We both understand that as celebrities, huge life-changing events like that require preparation and planning. We want to make sure we can provide a safe, stable and loving environment for our future children as well."

Yea Ji's father, who had been listening quietly, couldn't contain his excitement any longer. He leaned forward, his eyes shining with joy, and exclaimed, “I would be happy and blessed to have you as a son-in-law, Soo Hyun," he said warmly. "I trust you to bring happiness to my daughter's life and to our family. Whenever you both are ready, I will eagerly await the news."

Laughter erupted around the table, as the family playfully teased Soo Hyun and Yea Ji. It was a moment of pure joy, one that would be etched in their memories forever. The couple found themselves basking in the warmth and love of Yea Ji's family. Yea Ji could not help but steal glances at Soo Hyun whenever she had the chance. Each time, she noticed his hand resting gently beside hers as if he never wanted to let go. Whether it was a tender touch on her arm or a light side hug, his affectionate gestures spoke volumes about their deep connection. It was evident that Soo Hyun felt the same way about her, as his eyes sparkled whenever he caught her looking at him.

They spent the rest of the evening exchanging stories, sharing laughter, and bonding over their love for Yea Ji. Throughout their time together, conversations with her parents had flowed seamlessly, as if Soo Hyun was already a part of their family. He effortlessly engaged in discussions about their traditions, shared stories of his own experiences, and laughed along with their jokes.
As the night wore on, the conversation shifted to what each family member had been busy with, and the room was filled with laughter and joy. Soo Hyun bonded with Yea Ji's nieces, playing games and telling funny stories. The love and warmth in Yea Ji's family made him feel welcomed and cherished.

Yea Ji unpacked two boxes of cakes that had been sent by fans as Chuseok gifts. She had received them from HyunJis - Soo Hyun and Yea Ji shippers, who always showered them with love and support. Among the variety of treats, Yea Ji had specifically chosen some cakes for her two adorable nieces, knowing how much they loved sweets.
As the night drew to a close, the time came for the couple to bid farewell to Yea Ji's family, a bittersweet feeling filled the air.

Yea Ji’s omma packed boxes of food for them, food that not only fed their physical bodies but also warmed their heart. With their bags packed, they made their way towards the door, but before they could leave, Yea Ji's parents called them back.

"Soo Hyun-ah, take this bag of food for your Omma too. She’s more than welcome to join us for a meal. I’d cook up a feast for her!”

Soo Hyun's eyes widened with surprise, his heart full of gratitude. For the first time in a long while, Soo Hyun felt embraced by their warmth and acceptance. He could not help but feel overwhelmed by the kindness and acceptance he experienced that evening and struggled to find words to express his emotions but managed to stammer, "Abeoji, Ommonim, gomapseumnida! That's... really kind of you. I'm really happy and grateful." Yea Ji, ever attentive, noticed his emotions bubbling to the surface and gently reached out to hold his hand with a loving grip.

Tears of gratitude welled up in Soo Hyun's eyes as he squeezed Yea Ji's hand, silently conveying his appreciation. This act of comfort and understanding made him feel safe and loved, like he was part of something bigger than himself.

Her parents looked at the couple, their eyes filled with pride and happiness.

"You two complete each other," Yea Ji's father spoke, his voice tinged with emotion. "We have seen the love and care you both share, and it warms our hearts. We couldn't have asked for a better partner for our daughter, Soo Hyun."

Soo Hyun nodded, his gaze meeting Yea Ji's parents', tears of gratitude still lingering in his eyes. "Gamsahamnida," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "Tonight, you've given me a family that I've always yearned for. I'll treasure this moment forever. I promise to love and cherish her for the rest of my life. She means everything to me, and I am truly grateful to be a part of this wonderful family."

Yea Ji's parents, having grown fond of Soo Hyun, embraced him tightly, treating him like their own son, their eyes gleaming with pride and love. They shared how proud they were of Yea Ji for finding such a loving and caring partner. "Remember, you have a family here," Yea Ji's mother whispered, tears welling up in her eyes as they exchanged heartfelt goodbyes. The couple carried Yea Ji’s parents' blessings along with them and promised to visit again soon. As they walked hand in hand towards the car, Yea Ji squeezed Soo Hyun's hand affectionately.

Driving back to Seoul, Soo Hyun held Yea Ji's hand tightly, grateful for the love and acceptance he had found in her family. They were ready for the next chapter in their lives, knowing they had the support of those who mattered most. As they drove away, the couple shared a tender moment, their fingers intertwined. Soo Hyun turned to Yea Ji, his eyes filled with love when the car stopped at a traffic stop.

To lighten the mood, Yea Ji could not resist teasing Soo Hyun as they made their way back home.

"You know, sometimes I wonder if you're more like their daughter than I am," she playfully remarked, a mischievous smile dancing on her lips.
Soo Hyun chuckled, his eyes filled with a deep sense of adoration. "Well, I can't blame them for loving me so much. After all, I'm completely head over heels in love with their amazing daughter," he said, his voice sincere and filled with genuine affection.

Yea Ji's heart melted at his words. She couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for the wonderful man she was in a relationship with. Soo Hyun had always promised to be there for her, supporting her dreams and being her rock. Yea Ji kissed his hand that she was holding, feeling incredibly blessed to have found a partner who loved and cherished her so deeply.
"I'm so grateful to have you in my life," she whispered. "And I know that when the time is right, we'll have the most beautiful family together."

Soo Hyun smiled and kissed her forehead. "I believe that too, Yea Ji." As they entered the city lights, Soo Hyun looked at Yea Ji and whispered, "I can't wait to start our own family, Yea Ji. With you by my side, I know we can overcome any challenge that comes our way."

Yea Ji smiled, her heart full of love. She knew that their Chuseok holiday with her family had been a turning point in their relationship. Throughout the drive back, thoughts filled Yea Ji’s mind. She could see a bright future ahead with Soo Hyun. She knew that one day, they would become husband and wife, and start their own family. But for now, they were content in the warmth and love they had found in each other's arms. The Chuseok holiday had brought them even closer, reinforcing their bond and commitment to each other.

With hearts full of love and gratitude, Soo Hyun and Yea Ji stepped into their home, unpacking loads of food from Yea Ji’s family before finally having time together in each other’s embrace.
They settled into bed, wrapped in each other's arms, and allowed the blissful silence to envelop them. Soo Hyun snuggled closer, his tired body sinking into Yea Ji's comforting presence. She began stroking the strands of his hair gently, weaving her fingers through them.

"Thank you for showing me what it means to be loved unconditionally," he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity. "I can't wait to create a lifetime of beautiful memories with you as we embark on this journey together."

Yea Ji leaned closer, their foreheads touching. "I feel the same way, Soo Hyun,” as she stroked his hair, knowing that he finally succumbed to the embrace of sleep, Yea Ji held him tighter, her heart brimming with affection. She placed a soft kiss on his forehead before joining him in dreamland. As she closed her eyes, a contented smile graced her lips. They had celebrated Chuseok with her family, but it was in this serene moment, as she whispered words of love to her slumbering partner, that Yea Ji found the truest sense of belonging.

Chapter Text

Kim Soo Hyun, immersed in the world of "Queen of Tears," found himself living a dual life—one as a charismatic, married legal director of Queens Group caught in the intricate web of drama, and the other as a man deeply in love with his girlfriend, Seo Yea Ji.

The fans, ardent in their admiration, lauded the visual appeal that the ring added to Soo Hyun's charismatic portrayal. They created forums and threads, discussing how the silver band adorned his hand, becoming an extension of his on-screen persona. Little did they know that behind the scenes, the actor had developed a peculiar fondness for the ring, finding comfort in its constant presence. It became a symbolic accessory, not just for his character, but also for the actor himself. Soo Hyun grew accustomed to the weight on his finger, finding a strange comfort in its presence.

As the filming days rolled on, Soo Hyun's immersion into the character and the gripping storyline became more profound. Yet, amidst the hectic filming schedule, Soo Hyun yearned for the presence of someone who meant more to him than any role he played—the love of his life, Seo Yea Ji.

In the few stolen moments between takes, Soo Hyun would glance at the ring on his finger, contemplating a plan that had been brewing in his mind. The desire to ask Yea Ji for her hand in marriage had grown stronger with each passing day. The ring, initially just a prop, seemed to have taken on a life of its own, whispering promises of a future beyond the scripts and cameras.

Finally, the day arrived when their busy lives permitted a precious escape. He carefully orchestrated a surprise for Yea Ji, ensuring that their time together would be as memorable as the characters they portrayed on screen. The location he chose was the secret place he had found—a haven of peace amidst the urban chaos, where both of them could enjoy the soft hues of the setting sun at the tranquil Han River away from the city's hustle and bustle. The riverbanks echoed with the gentle lull of water, creating a serene backdrop for the unfolding romantic moment.

A light breeze rustled through the leaves of nearby trees, creating a whispered melody that accompanied their steps. Soo Hyun's eyes glinted with a mix of nerves and excitement as he guided Yea Ji to a spot where a blanket lay spread out, adorned with flickering candles in delicate glass holders. Soo Hyun couldn't contain the anticipation bubbling within him. He looked at Yea Ji, her eyes reflecting the same love that fueled his every move.

The cityscape sparkled in the distance, a symphony of lights painting the horizon as the sun dipped lower. Soo Hyun motioned for Yea Ji to sit, and as they settled onto the soft blanket, he couldn't help but steal a glance at the ring on his finger—the symbol that had become intertwined with both his on-screen character and, now, his real-life emotions.

Seated across from each other, Soo Hyun couldn't contain his anticipation. He toyed with the ring, a subtle smile playing on his lips. "Yea Ji," he began, his voice a gentle melody in the night air, "you know this ring?" He gestured to the silver band on his finger.

A playful smile curved Yea Ji's lips and she raised an eyebrow, "Ah, the famous ring that fans can't stop talking about. You do look good with it on."

"What's got you so intrigued by that ring?" she inquired, a teasing smile forming on her lips.

Soo Hyun chuckled, his gaze softening. " Well, you see, it's become a part of me during this show. Fans seem to love it too. Do you think it suits me?”

Yea Ji studied him for a moment before bursting into laughter. "You do look good with it, but I never thought I'd see the day when you'd become attached to a piece of jewelry."

Soo Hyun joined in her laughter, the sound of their joy echoing in the serene surroundings. Seizing the moment, he chuckled nervously and took a deep breath. “I've grown quite attached to it, you know. But, there's something I want to share with you." The sounds of the Han River faded into the background.

"This ring," he began, holding it up for her to see, "it's become more than just a prop to me. It's a reminder of the stories we tell, the characters we become. And, well,” he paused, a nervous excitement in his voice, his gaze locking with hers, “I was thinking if you'd let me make it a permanent part of my life and our story too. Seo Yea Ji, will you marry me? "

The air seemed to hold its breath as Yea Ji processed his words. A soft gasp escaped her lips, and her eyes widened in surprise. Soo Hyun's heart raced, waiting for her response.
"Wait, are you proposing with a ring you got for a role?" she exclaimed, a burst of laughter escaping her.

Soo Hyun nodded, a mixture of nerves and joy dancing in his eyes. "Yes, but it's not just any ring. It's become a symbol of us, of this moment. It feels right. It may be unconventional, but it's special to me. And besides, it suits me, right?"

Yea Ji's laughter echoed along the riverbank, a beautiful melody that filled the air. She chuckled, wiping away a tear from the corner of her eye. "You're truly one of a kind, Kim Soo Hyun. I’m sure you are the only one who would come up with such a unique proposal,” she said as she lands a soft thud on his chest. “But hey, I can't just say 'yes' like this. We need an unconventional agreement too!"
Soo Hyun raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? What do you have in mind?"

She took a step closer, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Let's make a pact," Yea Ji suggested. "If we're ever in a heated argument or need to make a big decision, we'll settle it with a game. Rock, paper, scissors, or something equally whimsical. Or we'll settle it by exchanging shoes for a day. Walking in each other's shoes, literally.

Deal?" she flashed her iconic eye smile.

Soo Hyun burst into laughter, realising he had met his match in uniqueness. "Deal! And when you win, you get to flaunt the fact that you said 'yes' in the quirkiest way possible."

Yea Ji grinned, holding out her pinky finger, "Deal! Let’s make a pinky promise!" He lifts his pinky finger as they twine their pinkies together.

“And let’s seal it,” she continued.

He chuckled, knowing full well what she meant. Soo Hyun leaned in and his lips met Yea Ji's in that initial, delicate touch, which set the tone for what would follow. The atmosphere around them seemed to hum with a quiet energy, the city lights casting a warm glow on their shared moment.

As they sealed their unconventional agreement with a warm kiss on each other’s lips, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the couple. With their agreement sealed in laughter and an air of playful spontaneity, Soo Hyun reached into his pocket and presented a small, elegant box. As he opened it, the dying light of the day caught the sparkle of a stunning ring. It wasn't the prop from the show; it was a symbol of his love and commitment to the woman who had just made his proposal uniquely memorable.

Yea Ji admired the ring in the box and Soo Hyun couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the moment—the quiet ambiance of the Han River, the city lights shimmering in the background, and the laughter that echoed the promise of their love story. The air seemed to hold a soft warmth, as if their connection had created a bubble of tenderness around them.

Soo Hyun took out the ring and carefully slid it onto Yea Ji's finger. A cascade of emotions enveloped her, creating a moment suspended in time. The touch of the cool metal against her skin felt like a promise, a tangible symbol of their journey together.

Yea Ji's heart fluttered with a mixture of surprise, joy, and an overwhelming sense of love. The ring, once a prop in a fictional world, now bore the weight of reality, solidifying their commitment to each other. As it nestled on her finger, it became more than just a piece of jewelry; it became a precious token of Soo Hyun's affection.

The glint of the ring caught the ambient light, reflecting the sincerity in Soo Hyun's eyes. Yea Ji couldn't help but marvel at its beauty, a reflection of the love they shared. It was as if the ring spoke a silent language, whispering promises of a future entwined with shared dreams and unwavering companionship.

Her gaze shifted from the ring to Soo Hyun's eyes, finding a depth of emotion that mirrored her own. In that moment, as the ring found its place, Yea Ji felt a profound connection—a sense of being chosen, cherished, and accepted in all her uniqueness.

The weight of the ring on her finger carried a subtle gravity, grounding her in the reality of this newfound chapter. It was a symbol of their shared laughter, stolen moments between takes, and the genuine love that had grown between them over the years.

Yea Ji's fingers traced the contours of the ring, feeling the smooth metal beneath her touch. It was a tactile reminder of the tangible love they had built—a love that had endured the challenges of busy schedules, public scrutiny, and the intricacies of two lives merging into one.

As she looked at the ring, Yea Ji couldn't suppress the smile that played on her lips. It was a smile that spoke of happiness found in the unexpected, of a love that had bloomed in the most unconventional ways. The ring, once a mere accessory for a character, now symbolized the intertwining of their stories, making the proposal uniquely theirs.

Soo Hyun's arms enveloped Yea Ji, holding her hands, which now had the engagement ring that fit nicely on her ring finger. It was as if the world outside ceased to exist. The strength in his embrace was balanced with a gentle touch, an unspoken reassurance that he would stand by her through every joy and challenge.

Yea Ji, leaning into the hug, felt a sense of security and belonging. His warmth seeped through every inch of her being, creating a sanctuary where worries could dissipate. She could feel the steady beat of his heart, a comforting rhythm that echoed the constancy of his love.

Their bodies pressed together, forming a seamless connection. It was not just a physical closeness; it was a merging of souls, an affirmation that in that moment, they were united in the most profound way. Yea Ji's head found its place on Soo Hyun's shoulder, and she closed her eyes, savouring the peace that came with his presence.

Soo Hyun's hand gently traced soothing circles on Yea Ji's back, a silent language that spoke of understanding and empathy. The hug was a sanctuary where vulnerability was met with acceptance, where unspoken fears found solace.

Time seemed to slow down, allowing them to bask in the simplicity of the moment. In that embrace, there were no expectations, no judgments—just two hearts beating in unison. The outside world faded away, leaving behind a cocoon of love that wrapped around them like a soft, protective blanket.

Eventually, they pulled back, and breaking from the embrace, Yea Ji looked at Soo Hyun with a smile, her eyes filled with affection. "You know our pact about settling disputes with games or by exchanging shoes, right?"

Soo Hyun nodded, a playful twinkle in his eyes. "An exchange of shoes, or whatever quirky game we come up with. It's a fun idea!"

Yea Ji chuckled, while tapping her finger on his nose. "It is, but let's add a touch of reality to it. How about we agree that in our disagreements, we'll take a step back, discuss our feelings openly, and find a compromise together? No games, just honest communication.”

Soo Hyun laughed, nodding in agreement, warmth spreading across his face. "I like that, my wife-to-be. It's grounded and real. Deal!"

With their updated agreement, Yea Ji giggled and the newly engaged couple found themselves swept away in a series of tender kisses, each one building upon the sweet intimacy of the last. It began with a gentle peck, a soft and innocent connection that spoke of affection and fondness. The brief kiss was followed by a chorus of soft giggles, reminiscent of the giddiness that accompanies a teenage crush.

Soo Hyun, captivated by the taste of her lips, couldn't resist the urge to press his mouth against hers with a bit more urgency. The kisses became lingering, a silent conversation that unfolded without the need for words.

Yea Ji, equally immersed in the blossoming intimacy, responded with a gentle reciprocation. The exchange of kisses became a dance, each movement choreographed by the unspoken chemistry between them. Their connection deepened with every shared breath, the river's soft murmurs providing a serene backdrop to their private symphony.

As the kisses continued, the initial restraint gave way to a more profound connection. Soo Hyun's hands found a natural place on Yea Ji's waist, pulling her closer as if to bridge any remaining distance. The cityscape witnessed the silent exchange, a spectacle of love unfolding against the glittering backdrop of Seoul.

Yet, amidst the escalating passion, a light-hearted moment emerged. A shared giggle bubbled up between them, breaking the intensity of the kisses with the joyous sound of mirth. Their laughter, like a refreshing breeze, added an element of playfulness to the tender exchange.

She felt a sense of security, knowing that their communication would be the foundation of their future together. However, a mischievous glint returned to her eyes as she leaned in to whisper, "But, Soo Hyun, get ready for a lifetime of walking in each other's shoes. It's going to be our thing!"

With the ring on her finger and the promise in their hearts, Soo Hyun and Yea Ji embraced the uniqueness of their love story, ready to face the twists and turns of life's unpredictable plot, filled with laughter, love, and a touch of innocent charm.

Chapter Text

After weeks of filming gruelling scenes for 'Queen of Tears', Soo Hyun was finally able to breathe a sigh of relief as the drama came to an end. He couldn't wait to spend some quality time with his fiancé, Yea Ji, whom he had missed dearly during the long hours on set.

As they sat together on the couch in Soo Hyun's apartment, Yea Ji couldn't help but pout as he reminded her of his upcoming schedule that he had to go for military reservist training the following week. She had been looking forward to their time together without any interruptions, and the thought of being apart once again was disappointing.

Soo Hyun could see the disappointment in her eyes and quickly reassured her, "I know it's not ideal, but this is something I have to do for our future. For our future kids as well. I want to make sure that we have a safe and secure environment for our family."

Yea Ji's eyes softened as she realized the importance of what Soo Hyun was saying. She knew that his commitment to his national defence duties was something that they couldn't ignore, no matter how much she wished they could be together all the time.

"I understand, Soo Hyun," Yea Ji said, placing her hand on his cheek. "I'll miss you, but I know that this is important. Just promise me that you'll come back to me safely."

Soo Hyun smiled at her and leaned in to give her a gentle kiss. "I promise, Yea Ji. I'll always come back to you, no matter what. And when I do, we'll have all the time in the world to make up for the time we lost."

As they held each other close, Soo Hyun couldn't help but feel grateful for having Yea Ji by his side. She understood him like no one else, and he knew that their love would only grow stronger with each obstacle they faced together.

And as Soo Hyun left for his military reservist training on 23 April, he did so with a sense of purpose and determination, knowing that he was doing it not just for himself, but for the future that he and Yea Ji dreamed of building together. She bid him farewell with a mix of pride and worry, knowing that such endeavours came with their share of risks.

The day passed slowly, and Yea Ji couldn't shake off the unease that settled in her heart. She kept herself occupied, playing with their pets but her mind often wandered to thoughts of Soo Hyun enduring the challenges of military training.

Then, news arrived—a message from the military base reporting that he had suffered a neck injury during training.

Anxious and fretful, Yea Ji rushed to the hospital where he was being treated. Yea Ji's heart skipped a beat. Rushing to the VIP ward, she found him lying on a hospital bed, a plaster cast around his neck. Relief washed over her as she saw him conscious and smiling weakly. She noticed the slight grimace that crossed his features, a tell-tale sign of the pain he tried so desperately to conceal.
"Jagi-ya," she exclaimed, her voice laced with concern as she rushed to his side, "What happened? Are you okay?"

Soo Hyun flashed her a reassuring smile, though the strain was evident in his eyes. "It's nothing, just a minor injury," he replied, his tone casual despite the underlying tension. "I'll be fine."

But Yea Ji wasn't convinced. She could see past the facade he so carefully constructed, her intuition honed by years of shared laughter and silent conversations.

As she sat beside him on the hospital bed, she insisted on examining his injury, her touch as gentle as a whisper against his skin.

Yea Ji let out a nervous chuckle. "You scared me, you know? I thought something terrible had happened."

She tended to his wounds with a tenderness that mirrored her love, Soo Hyun couldn't help but marvel at the depth of her compassion. In her presence, he found solace, a sanctuary where he could lower his defences and simply be himself.

"You worry too much, Yea Ji," he murmured softly, his gaze lingering on her face as if trying to memorize every contour and curve. "I'll be back to my old self in no time."

But Yea Ji shook her head, her eyes reflecting the depths of her concern. "I just want to take care of you," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper. "You mean everything to me, Soo Hyun."
In that moment, the weight of their love hung heavy in the air, a tangible presence that wrapped around them like a warm embrace. And as they laid in the hospital bed, the world outside faded into insignificance, leaving only the echo of their hearts beating in unison.

He reached out to hold her hand. "I'm sorry, love. I didn't mean to worry you."

A mischievous twinkle lit up his eyes then. "Looks like I'll be wearing turtle neck shirts for the next few days to cover this up."

Yea Ji couldn't help but smile at his attempt to lighten the mood. "Or," she teased, as she lifted her head off his shoulder and looked at him, "fans might think it's a hickey instead."

Soo Hyun's lips curved into a playful grin. "A hickey, huh? Well, if that were the case..." Before she could react, he pulled her close and pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss.

Caught off guard, Yea Ji's heart fluttered at his unexpected affection. When he finally pulled away, she blushed, feeling a mixture of amusement and warmth spreading through her.

"I'd rather have a hickey than this injury any day, it would definitely be a more interesting story to tell people." he whispered, his voice soft with sincerity, enjoying their playful banter.

Yea Ji playfully pushes him away, laughing at his antics. "Oh please, as if I would ever give you a hickey!" she teases.

Soo Hyun pouts exaggeratedly. "But Yea Ji, you know how much our fans look forward to crumbs like this. Maybe a little scandal wouldn't hurt," he jokes, winking at her.

Yea Ji rolls her eyes, but can't help but smile at his playful nature. "I think I'll pass on that one, thanks. I'd rather keep our relationship private," she says, landing her hand on his chest.

Soo Hyun leans in closer, his eyes full of affection. "I wouldn't have it any other way," he whispers before stealing another kiss, leaving Yea Ji blushing and giggling in his arms.

She couldn't help but smile at his antics as she pretended to be offended by his comment, and chided him for being so reckless during training. After expressing her thoughts in one breath, Yea Ji leaned in to kiss him once more. Deep down, she was relieved and grateful to have him safe and sound by her side. As they embraced, and shared the single hospital bed together, she silently vowed to cherish every moment they shared, knowing how precious their time together would be.

Over the next few days, Soo Hyun's injury gradually healed and he was back to his usual self – charming, funny, and always making Yea Ji smile. They spent their days together, exploring new restaurants, going on walks in their favourite place – Han River, and simply enjoying each other's company.

But as the days passed, Yea Ji couldn't shake off the worry that this injury could happen again. She knew that being in the military reservist meant that he could be called for duty at any time, facing dangers that she couldn't protect him from.

One evening, as they sat on their favourite bench by Han River, with his arm around her shoulder, Yea Ji finally mustered up the courage to express her concern for his well-being. "I'm glad it's nothing too serious this time, but please take care of yourself, okay? I don't want you getting hurt again." She looked into Soo Hyun's eyes and said “I don't know what I would do if something happened to you... I love you too much."

Soo Hyun nods, reaching out for her hand, he squeezed it gently, his eyes filled with love and understanding. "I promise you, Yea Ji, I will always be careful and come back to you. I love you more than anything in this world, and I would never do anything to risk losing you. Don't worry, I'll be more careful next time. And I have you to take care of me, right?" he says with a warm smile.

Yea Ji felt a surge of emotion wash over her as she leaned in to kiss him, feeling grateful for the love and reassurance that he always gave her. Their conversation turns lighter again as they joke about his injury and make plans for his recovery.

Despite the initial worry, their easy banter and laughter show the strong bond between them. They may tease and argue, but at the end of the day, they both know they can rely on each other for support and love.

Chapter Text

It had been a long day for Kim Soo Hyun. Between long hours filming Knock Off and shooting a new commercial for Tous les Jours, he was drained. As he finally crawled into bed next to his girlfriend, Seo Yea Ji, the tension in his body melted away, and he let out a deep sigh.

Yea Ji lying beside him, glanced over with a gentle smile, seeing the exhaustion in his eyes. "Rough day?" she asked, her voice soft and comforting.

Soo Hyun nodded, leaning back against the pillows. "Yeah, but there was one good part. The bread I had on set today was amazing. I really wish you could have tried it."

She raised an eyebrow, her playful nature showing. “Bread, huh? You know you owe me a piece now,” she teased. “I heard you’ve been channelling your inner baker."

He blinked, confused. "What do you mean by that?"

A mischievous smile tugged at the corners of Yea Ji’s lips. She reached out and gently placed her hand on her belly. “I mean, there’s something you helped bake. Something that’s just starting to rise…“ She paused for dramatic effect before adding, "There’s a bun in the oven, Soo Hyun."

At first, Soo Hyun's eyes widened in shock as he tried to process her words. "Wait, are you serious? You can't be talking about baking, right?"

Yea Ji laughed, shaking her head. "No, silly! I’m talking about a baby! I just found out, and I couldn’t wait to share the news with you."

Soo Hyun’s excitement bubbled over, and his eyes widened. “Are we having a baby?”, his voice full of emotion. His gaze softened, his lips curling into a smile as he looked at Yea Ji with wonder and joy.

Her laughter was soft, filled with the joy of finally sharing the news. “Yes,” she said, with her hand still resting on her stomach. “I’m pregnant, Soo Hyun. We’re going to be parents. It’s a bit overwhelming, but I’m really excited about this new chapter in our lives! I couldn’t wait to tell you. I just found out. "

Without another word, Soo Hyun pulled her into his arms, holding her tight as if he never wanted to let go. Tears welled up in Soo Hyun's eyes as he pulled Yea Ji into a tight embrace, feeling the weight of the news sink in. He was going to be a father, and he couldn't have been happier. “I love you so much,” he whispered against her hair, his voice shaking. “I can’t believe this. I’m going to be a dad.”

She rested her head against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. “We’re in this together,” she murmured, her voice full of love. “And I know you’re going to be the best father.”

He pulled back slightly, his hands framing her face as he looked into her eyes. “And you’re going to be the most amazing mom,” he said, his voice full of admiration.
Soo Hyun's grin wavered a bit as the reality hit him. "You know, I have no clue what to expect,” he admitted nervously.
"Don't worry,” Yea Ji gave his hand a reassuring squeeze. “I've got some experience helping with my sister’s kids. We’ll figure it out together.”
Soo Hyun looked surprised. "Really? You'll teach me everything you know?"
“I’ll do my best,” she laughed. “But some things, like sleepless nights and diaper duty, we’ll have to learn as we go.”

He gulped nervously. “I hadn’t even thought about that. And the whole labour and birth thing—it’s scary.”

Her smile softened. “Yeah, it is. Being an actress, the changes will be tough. But we’ll get through it, right?”
Soo Hyun nodded firmly. "Absolutely. We're in this together. Plus, they say the pain is worth it when we get to hold our baby."
Yea Ji's eyes softened with emotion. "You're right. Our little one will make it all worthwhile."
With a smile, she reached over to the nightstand and picked up a tiny white onesie she had hidden earlier. “I actually got something for our little one already,” she said, holding it up for him to see. “I thought it would be the perfect way to tell you.”

Soo Hyun’s eyes widened in surprise as he gently took the onesie from her hands, his fingers tracing the soft and tiny fabric. “This is incredible,” he whispered, his voice full of awe. He glanced back at Yea Ji, overwhelmed by the love he felt for her in that moment. “I can’t wait to meet our baby.”

She leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder as they both stared at the onesie, imagining their future together. “Me neither,” she whispered. “I’m so glad I get to share this journey with you.”

Soo Hyun gently pulled her closer, his arms enveloping her in a protective embrace, a soft, tender smile spreading across his face. “Looks like our little ‘bread in the oven’ is on the way,” he whispered, his voice warm with joy. His hands moved delicately to her belly, resting there with reverence, as though cradling the life growing within. His touch was gentle, filled with awe, as if acknowledging that her body had become a sanctuary for their child—a safe, nurturing space where their future was already taking shape. In that moment, his love for both her and their unborn baby radiated through every touch, every breath.

Chapter Text

Soo Hyun stood by the entrance, his heart pounding in his chest as he watched Yea Ji strut into their apartment with her high boots, a mischievous smirk playing on her lips. She always knew how to drive him crazy with just a glance. She had just returned from a prestigious Benedetta Boroli F/W event, looking effortlessly elegant in Chloé’s fitted grey wool cardigan and sleek black boots that gave her an air of confident sophistication. The evening had gone flawlessly, and she had captivated with her understated elegance—demure yet irresistibly charming. Every movement was measured, her demeanour poised, with just a touch of playful sweetness that lingered in the air. Now, as she headed home, her thoughts drifted to the celebratory night she would share with her lover. For him, her mere presence sent his thoughts spinning.

“Are you coming?” she teased, voice low, a subtle smile playing on her lips. Soo Hyun knew that smirk meant trouble—sweet, intoxicating trouble. “Or maybe I should just celebrate on my own?”

Feigning indifference, he replied, "Where exactly are you going? Off to conquer the world with those boots?" His eyes sparkled with playful challenge.

Yea Ji raised an eyebrow as she took a step closer, her heels clicking with every step, her lips inches from his. Her voice softened, a glint in her eyes. “I could keep my charm reserved just for you... if you’re quick enough to join me. You might miss the best part of the night if you don’t hurry.”

“And what’s that?” he asked, curiosity piqued.

“The part where you get to unwind with me after your tour and my event. There’s still time to celebrate tonight, just with me…”” she whispered, turning toward the bedroom with a wink.

He couldn’t help but laugh, the tension of his recent tour melting under her gaze. He had just wrapped up the last stop of his Asia tour, ‘Eyes On You,’ in Seoul. Though he’d sung to thousands, the moment he spotted her in the crowd had stirred his heart in a way he couldn’t control. Every note of his final song was meant for her—every word filled with his devotion. But under the spotlight, his emotions got the better of him, and he faltered, his voice wavering with the weight of the words he meant just for her.

She noticed, of course, but was trying to find a right time to bring it up to him.

As they moved toward the bedroom, he reached down and gently unzipped her boots, sliding each one off with care. Yea Ji watched, her heart warming up at the simple intimacy of the gesture. He wasn’t just an idol under stage lights—he was hers, tender and grounded.

Once her boots were off, she leaned into him, her hands resting on his shoulders, a comfortable silence filling the room.

After some shared laughter and quiet moments together, they found themselves wrapped in the warmth of their bedroom, limbs entwined under the glow of the moonlight filtering in. Yea Ji lay on his chest, her fingers tracing soft patterns along his skin as they relished the comfortable silence.

Gazing up at him, with a playful glint in her eye. "I’ve been meaning to ask you something," she began, her voice soft yet teasing. "Remember your last fan meeting tour stop in Seoul? That song you sang—the one where you got a little… emotional?”

Soo Hyun let out a small groan. "Don’t remind me, I was supposed to look cool and collected,” his arm tightening around her, pulling her closer. "I thought I nailed it – until that part."

She chuckled, “Cool? You looked like a lovesick fool up there.” But her voice softened, her hand coming up to brush his cheek gently. “You know I loved it, though. I could tell you were singing it for me.”
His gaze softened, his hand gently brushing her hair back, his voice barely above a whisper. "That song has always been special to us."

Soo Hyun sighed, a sheepish grin forming on his lips. "I guess… I got a little overwhelmed," he confessed. "I looked into the crowd, and my eyes found you. Looking at you, the words hit me harder than I expected. The words, the emotion. My fans around with the people I love around me, I guess my emotions just took over."

Yea Ji’s teasing smile softened into something more tender. "I know," she whispered, leaning in closer, their foreheads touching. Her fingers tracing small circles on his chest, "I could feel it too."
Soo Hyun turned his head slightly, meeting her gaze with a quiet intensity. "I meant every word I sang, Yea Ji. Every word I sang, it’s for you."

Her heart swelled with warmth at his words, and she leaned in closer, pressing a gentle kiss to his cheek. "And every time you sing, I’ll be there. You’ll always find me, no matter how big the crowd is. Just promise not to choke again—I can’t have my rock star looking like a deer caught in the headlights.” she teased, a mischievous sparkle in her eyes.

“Deal,” he laughed, pulling her closer. “No more choking—unless you’re there to bail me out.” He tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, his voice growing softer. “You’re my one and only, Yea Ji.”

She smiled, letting her fingers trail along his jawline as she leaned in, pressing her lips to his in a kiss filled with promises left unspoken. When they finally pulled apart, she rested her head against his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat—a melody she knew was hers alone.

“Just so you know,” she whispered, a sleepy smile tugging at her lips, “I’ll be expecting a special song next time, one that’ll sweep me off my feet.”

“Only if you wear those boots again,” he replied, a playful glint in his eye as he kissed the top of her head. In that quiet moment, with only the sound of their steady breaths and the moonlight casting a soft glow, they found a piece of forever—wrapped in each other’s arms, their love a song that would never fade. Her hand slid up to cup his face as he lowered his lips to hers, the kiss soft and filled with unspoken promises. Time seemed to stop as they held each other close, breathing in each other’s warmth, their world filled only with the tender closeness they shared. When their lips parted, she rested her head against his chest once more, feeling safe and cherished in his embrace.