Seulgi and Jaehyun on their way back from school after soccer training for the school team. Since Jaehyun drove by his appa this morning, Seulgi drive him back and at the same time want to meet with Irene
"Hyung, I think noona will throw a tantrum when she knows that you'll attend the workshop tomorrow. You know she is so clingy"
"What to do, Jae. Joon hyung has an emergency. I have to replace him because I am the only one available. You're busy with upcoming exam as well"
"You're right, hyung"
As Seulgi turned his car to the block where Bae's house located, they saw an unfamiliar car parked in front of that house
"Whose car is that?"
"I don't know," Jaehyun shrugs. He also never sees that car. He know all of his relatives and his parents colleague's car but not this one
Seulgi slowed down his car, waiting for someone to get out of that car. Later, an unfamiliar guy hopped out of the car and walked to the other side. He opens the door for someone. Much to their surprise, that guy held Irene's hand as he helped her jump down the car. They exchange sweet smile
"What the fuck!" Jaehyun cursed, then he looked at Seulgi. The older guy's expression looked dark upon witnessing Irene being close with someone else. He gripped hard on the steering when he saw that man kiss Irene on the lips. She does not show rejection when that man kisses her. Irene is smiling instead
"Hyung, calm down, okay? I'll be behind you" Jaehyun feels bad for Seulgi. At the same time, he is upset at his sister for doing such things when she is dating Seulgi. She is obviously cheating
"I'm fine, Jae. Don't worry" Seulgi answered. Jaehyun knows Seulgi is not fine. He face clearly show disappointment and anger but he hold it
Seulgi stopped his car behind that black car. Irene froze when she saw Seulgi's car. She immediately pulled her hand from that guy. Jaehyun got out of the car with an unfriendly reaction followed by Seulgi who still looked calm. From Jaehyun face, Irene conclude that she was busted
"Jae"
"Noona, what are you doing here?" Jaehyun asked coldly. Seulgi still stand behind him without looking at Irene
"I..." Irene startled
Without waiting for Irene's answer, Jaehyun turned his face to that stranger "Who are you, sir?"
"I am Park Jinyoung, Irene's boyfriend"
"Boyfriend?" Jaehyun asked in disbelief. He looking at Irene with millions of questions in his eyes
"Yes, I am her boyfriend. We dated for three years since we were still in Manchester. Now I move back to Korea so that I can stay close with Irene and hope we could get married sooner" Jinyoung say confidently
Irene is already sweating bullets when she hears Jinyoung's confession. She not able to lift up her head to even looking at her brother, not to mention, Kang Seulgi who giving him hateful look
"Who is this one, your brother too?" Jinyoung noticed another person behind Jaehyun
Seulgi fake his smile "I am Kang Seulgi, Jaehyun's friend"
"Oh I see, nice to meet you" Seulgi and Jinyoung shake hand
"Nice to meet you too" Seulgi tapping Jaehyun's shoulder "Jae, I need to go now"
"Okay hyung, drive carefully" Jaehyun squeezing Seulgi's shoulder then the older guy nods his head before walk back to his car
"By the way Baby, I got to go now. See you tomorrow" said Jinyoung
"Okay" Irene forced her smile. Jinyoung pecked her lips right in front of her brother making Irene almost passed out in shock
"Good game, noona" Jaehyun smirk then leave Irene alone
......
Mr. Bae and his wife noticed Jaehyun's expression looked dark unlike usual. Their son looked angry
"Jae, what with that face?" asked Mrs. Bae when Jaehyun plop himself on the chair
"Ask Joohyun noona" Jaehyun answer nonchalantly
"Where is your sister?"
Irene came with a worried expression. She looked scared to face her family. She knows her parents will not be happy with the news that they will hear later. Ready or not, she have to tell them since Jaehyun already find out her relationship with Jinyoung
"Hyun, something wrong?" Mrs. Bae asking worriedly
"Eomma, appa...I'm sorry, '' Irene said quietly. She so scared to look at their faces
"What's wrong, Joohyun? What happened between both of you?" Mr. Bae getting impatient
Jaehyun groan "Appa, eomma...Joohyun noona have boyfriend" he stated while glare coldly at his sister
"Of course she has. Seulgi is her boyfriend. What's wrong with that?" their parents confused
"Her boyfriend is not only Seulgi hyung. She has another boyfriend that she has dated for the past few years. Noona dated that guy before she dated Seulgi hyung. That's the problem, appa"
"Is that true, Joohyun?" Mr. Bae upset hearing that
Irene already sobbing when her brother revealed her relationship "Y-yes appa"
"Why do you still go after Seulgi when you already have a boyfriend? Are you a player who dates two or three men at the same time? Is this what you do when you are still overseas?"
"No appa, I'm not a player"
"If you're not a player, why do you date Seulgi when you already have a boyfriend?!" Mr. Bae burst out in anger "Do you know that you're hurting him?!"
"I'm sorry...appa. I really out of my mind"
"It's not me who you should apologize to but Seulgi. You hurt him, Bae Joohyun! Don't forget the fact that you desperately want to date him. If only I know you behave like this, I'll not convincing Seulgi to accept you"
"Does Seulgi know this?" ask Mrs. Bae
"Yes eomma" said Irene
Jaehyun added "Seulgi hyung heard that Jinyoung guy admitted that they are dating. He witnessed Jinyoung kissing noona in front of the gate. You can ask the security guard for confirmation. Seulgi hyung is so nice that he does not make a fuss over this issue. If I were him, I would have already given both of you a big lesson. You don't see how much hurt in his eyes, not to mention his heart. I don't know how to face him after this. I'm so embarrassed because of you, noona" he said with disappointment in his voice
"You're really embarrassing us, Joohyun. How could you do this to Seulgi? I can accept if it just misunderstanding but the truth that you dating Seulgi when you already have boyfriend is so disappointing" Mr. Bae sighs
"I'm out of this" Jaehyun took his duffel bag and leave the living room
"Joohyun, I want you to end it with Seulgi. Stop hurting him while it is still early. Don't make him hurt more. Don't be greedy" Mr. Bae stated before he leave following Jaehyun
Irene cries hard after her father leaves her and her mother in the living room. Mrs. Bae take a sit beside her daughter and bring Irene to her embrace
"Eomma...I'm sorry" Irene say under her sobs
"Calm down, okay? Everything will be fine" Mrs. Bae cooed
"Eomma, I don't want to break up with Seulgi" Irene shake her head
"Baby, you know you can't date two men at the same time, right? You have two choose one of them. Choose the one that you really love"
"But appa wants me to break up with Seulgi. I don't want eomma" Irene wailing in her mom' embrace
"What about your first boyfriend? Will you break up with him and choose Seulgi instead?" Irene was unable to answer the question "You can't think straight now. Get enough rest and think carefully. You must choose one even if you have to break another's heart. I am not taking any sides. The decision is yours. We can't be too involved because it's about your future. We'll support whoever you will choose"
"Okay eomma"
"Now go to you room and rest" Irene nods her head then walk upstairs
.................
Jaehyun bumps into his sister in the hallway upstairs when he walks to his room. He noticed that Irene is ready to go somewhere
"Where are you going, noona?"
"I...I want to go to Seulgi's apartment" Irene still scare to talk to Jaehyun
Jaehyun scoffed, "Seulgi hyung is not at home. He attended a three days coaching workshop at Hwaseong City. Don't distract him with that problem"
"O-okay"
The younger Bae goes to his room leaving his sister standing still in the hallway. After that, Irene return to her bedroom
............
Irene nervously waits for Seulgi to answer her call. It is her third attempt calling the monolid eyes teacher tonight but he's still not answering. Finally after fourth attempt, Seulgi voice heard from the other side
"Hello"
"Hello Seulgi"
"Yes Irene, what's up?" Irene froze when she heard Seulgi not address her with a Korean name like usual. His voice also sound flat
"Seul, I...I'm sorry for what happened in our relationship"
It takes a few minutes for Seulgi to give a response "Save your sorry for later. I want to focus on my job right now. We need to talk personally regarding this. I'll be back in three days because I have another schedule with fellow coaches"
"Seulgi, where is your current location?"
"In Hwaseong city"
"Okay, goodnight Seulgi"
"Hm, goodnight" Seulgi hang-up immediately after that
Irene sighs as she stare at the picture of her and Seulgi that she set as wallpaper "I want to go to Seulgi"
She goes to the walk-in closet and takes out her backpack. She packed her clothes and needs into her backpack. After everything settle, she go to her bed to sleep
..............
Mr. Bae and Mrs. Bae is eating breakfast when Irene comes downstairs carrying her backpack and wearing casual clothes. The elders are wondering where their daughter will travel. Usually she will inform them beforehand if she need to work outstation
"Hyun, where are you going?"
Irene decides to not tell anyone about her plan so she has to lie to her parents "I need to work outstation, eomma, appa. Mrs. Cho just informed me last night to replace one of our staff that's why I not tell you two early"
"Do you want to go overseas?"
"No, only to Busan branch"
"Okay, do you go alone or with your colleague?"
"I go alone, appa. I'll ride subway"
"Do you need me to drive you there?"
"No, you shouldn't be late to the office. I can ride a taxi. I called taxi already"
"Alright, be careful on your journey," says Mr. Bae. Even though he is still upset and disappointed, he can't stay angry at his daughter. She is his princess after all. He only give advice to Irene to make right decision
"Don't forget to call us when you arrive" add Mrs. Bae
"Sure eomma" Irene join her parent breakfast while waiting for taxi to arrive
...........
It has been two days since Seulgi discovers Irene having another boyfriend and he is the third party in their relationship. He is shocked and obviously hurt knowing the fact that Irene lied to him. How could he have dated someone else's girlfriend in these three months? He feels guilty towards Park Jinyoung. That man must be hurt more than him if only he knew that his girlfriend was cheating while they were far away from each other. Seulgi can't imagine himself in Jinyoung's position. He does not blame Jinyoung but Irene because that girl is the main source of the problem. Both of them are only the victim
Seulgi just arrived at his hotel room after attending the second day activity of the workshop. Since it was still too early to get ready for the night program, he decided to take a rest in his room. His focus on TV is distracted by his phone ringtone. He groan when he saw the caller ID but still grab the device to answer the call
Seulgi: Hello
Irene: Hello Seul, where are you now?
Seulgi: I told you I'm at Hwaseong
Irene: I know you're at Hwaseong but are you at the hotel or still have a schedule?
Seulgi: I'm in my room right now. Why?
Irene: Right now I'm at the lobby
Seulgi: Lobby?
Irene: Yes, hotel lobby where you currently stayed
Seulgi: What are you doing here?
Irene: Seul, come here. Pick me up. We'll talk later
Seulgi: Hm, okay
...................
Seulgi quickly goes to the lobby after his call with Irene. Since the hotel lobby is wide and a lot of people, he is having a hard time looking for Irene. He walks here and there searching for Irene since her figure is small and makes it hard for him to see her. Five minutes roaming around, he finally spotted Irene sit on the bench frowning while looking at her phone
"Huft...that person" Seulgi sighs when he saw Irene sit nicely while he is tired looking for her "Yah, Bae Joohyun"
Irene looked up when she heard her name called by someone "Seulgi-ah"
Seulgi jogged towards Irene's direction. She noticed that a few people were staring at Seulgi when he passed by them. She knows they must be admiring his muscular arms because Seulgi is wearing sleeveless shirts and jogger pants that show his muscles. Irene doesn't like it. She is jealous
"Why do you wear this shirt?" Irene upset
"Why? These are my clothes. Nothing is wrong" Seulgi shrugs
"Those pervert are staring at you" Irene gritted her teeth
Seulgi knows Irene is jealous. She hate it when someone admiring her property but Seulgi don't care since he still upset at her
"What brought you here and how do you know that I stayed here?" Seulgi ignoring Irene's tantrum
"Do you forget that Seohyun is my friend? I got all the information from her. I can't get anything from Jaehyun but I have Seohyun to help me" Irene say proudly
Seulgi rolled his eyes annoyingly "Do you book a room already?"
"I'll share room with you" Irene grin
"No way, go get your own room"
"Sorry to say but the receptionist told me that the room is fully booked until the weekend. You like it or not, I'll stay with you" Irene smile in victory
"Go find other hotel"
Irene showing puppy eyes "I guess other hotels are also full because of a festival that was hosted in this city. Do you dare to see me sleep at the roadside?"
"Aish, let's go!" Seulgi walk ahead but Irene stopped him
"Kang Seulgi, my bag is heavy" Irene whining when Seulgi leaving her behind
Without saying anything, Seulgi turns around and grabs her bag. He walks again with Irene clinging on his arm possessively. Irene proudly walked past the women who were looking at Seulgi earlier. She literally telling everyone that Seulgi is hers and they don't have chance to hold that sexy arm
.............
"Since this room only have one bed, you'll sleep on the couch or floor" Seulgi say without guilt
"Yah, it's unfair! We can sleep together. That bed is big!" Irene retort
"No such things. I don't want to sleep with someone else girlfriend"
Irene throw the cushion to Seulgi face "Don't forget that you used to have sex with me"
"Well, that is my biggest mistake. I will apology to your boyfriend"
"Stop saying that stuff Seulgi"
Seulgi decides to stop before Irene gets mad "How long will you stay here?"
"Until you go back to Seoul"
"I have been here a few days. I have new schedule until weekend"
"I don't care. I'll follow with you no matter where you go" Irene stated firmly
"Irene Bae Joohyun, please take note that my next schedule will be at a sports complex so only authorized people are allowed to stay at the accommodation. You don't have any business there. Don't be stubborn" Seulgi try to calm himself or else, he will flick Irene's forehead
Irene groaned "Please take note that I am not letting you go without me. I'll scold the staff if I not allow to stay there with you"
"Yah Bae Joohyun!"
"Yah Kang Seulgi!"
"You're so annoying" Seulgi grabs his towel then goes to the bathroom to wash up. He also slammed the door as a sign of protest but Irene didn't care. She don't want Seulgi to run away from her
...............
Irene sits on the bed watching Seulgi dress up. Seulgi is still sulking that he don't talk with Irene since he done shower
"Seulgi-ah~" Irene calling the owner of muscular back before her
"Em?"
"Are you going out after this?"
"Yes, I still have schedule tonight"
"When will you come back?"
"Around 10 PM" say Seulgi then he continue put on his clothes
Irene pouting knowing that she'll be alone when Seulgi is away. She don't know what to do. Staying in hotel must be boring
Due to spacing out thinking about what she should do while waiting for Seulgi to come back from workshop, Irene startled seeing a handsome Seulgi right in front of her. If only she forget that they currently not in good term, she will not allow Seulgi to go out
"If you want to go out, car key is in my bag" said Seulgi
"Hm, I don't want to go out alone. If you leave your car here, what will you ride to the venue?"
"The workshop is in the hall on the 6th floor. I don't need car to go there"
"Okay" Irene walks to Seulgi and fixes his necktie "You're good to go" she smiles "Don't flirt. I'm jealous" she peck Seulgi's cheek after that
..................
"Not sleeping yet?" Seulgi saw Irene still lounge on the couch watching TV when he return to his room
"I'm waiting for you" Irene say lazily "You said you return on 10. Now is 11. Do you meet someone else out there?"
Seulgi discard his blazer and necktie then take off his dress shirt "I hangouts with my friends at the coffee shop"
"You're so mean. I'm alone here while you have fun with your friend" Irene protest
"I told you already, right? I come here not for fun. I come because of work"
"Hm, at least think about me. I'm worry if you meeting other girl" Irene say quietly
"Even if I meet another woman, there is nothing wrong with that. I'm technically single"
"Yah, you're still my boyfriend!" Irene yell
Seulgi only reply with scoff. He go to bathroom to clean up. Few minutes later, he come back then grab a pillow and extra blanket from the bed. Irene still showing frown on her face. She glare at Seulgi but he ignore it
"You should sleep now. I have to go out early tomorrow for the closing ceremony so I must sleep early and I'm tired too. Goodnight" Seulgi plops his body to the couch and covers himself fully with the blanket. Irene groan then she also sleep
..........
Irene is still sleeping soundly on the bed while Seulgi dresses up after taking shower. Today is the closing ceremony of their workshop so they asked me to wear a suit. When he was done dressing up, he decided to wake up the sleeping beauty. He sit on the bed edge then lean in, kissing Irene's temple
"You're so beautiful. Sadly you're not mine" Seulgi smile bitterly as he stare at Irene's face
"Joohyun" Seulgi tapping Irene's arm but she still not moving "Joohyun, wake up"
"Hm" Irene stirred from her sleep and stretched her body "Seulgi?"
"Wake up, it's 7 a.m. already" Seulgi speak softly
The petite girl sat down and rubbed her eyes cutely "Are you going down now?"
"Yes, I already order breakfast for you. Don't forget to eat"
"What about yourself?"
"Our breakfast provided downstairs so I can't join you. We'll check out before lunch time. Make sure you already pack your clothes when I come back. I'll be back around 10"
"Okay"
"I'm going now. Wash your face before room service coming" Seulgi checks himself before going out. Today he wearing gray suit
"Alright" with half closed eyes Irene walk to bathroom to wash her face and brush teeth
...................
"Seulgi, where are we?" Irene noticed that Seulgi pull off at apartment building, not sport complex as he said
Seulgi turns to his right, facing the confused girl "You'll stay with my cousin's family for the next three days. I already talked to him and his wife, they don't have problem having you around"
"Seulgi..." Irene whine
"Irene, I can't bring you together to the sports complex. I'll sleep here too but I can't spend time with you because my next schedule is hectic. I hope you understand. If you still protest, I don't have a choice but to ask Jaehyun to pick you up. I know your family has no idea that you came here. Jaehyun told me that you work outstation"
"Hm" Irene puffed her cheeks
"They have two adorable kids. You can play with them while I'm away" Seulgi speak with softness so that Irene would understand the situation
"Okay" Irene gave in. She don't want to go back before Seulgi
"Good, let's go"
Seeing Seulgi also take his suitcase, Irene feels relief because she knows Seulgi will not deceive her. She's sure that he also will sleep in apartment, not at sport complex as he said
.............
"Uncle Seul!" a little girl about four years old hop up and down as soon as she saw Seulgi at the front door
"Hi baby" Seulgi crouched and kissed the girl on her cheeks "How are you?"
"I'm fine, uncle"
"Baby, let's walk our guest to the living room. We shouldn't let them stand here" said the girl's father "Let's go, Seulgi and Irene-ssi"
Both of them follow the apartment owner. In the living room, a woman sits on the couch holding a baby. She beamed happily as soon as she saw them
"Hi oppa"
"Hi Jen, how are you and baby Minjeong?"
"We're good, oppa. Have a sit" everyone sit on the couch
"Seul, you should introduce this unnie to us"
Seulgi chuckled "Her name is Irene Bae. She is older than you two. Irene, this is my cousin, Kim Jennie and her husband, Kim Jisoo. Their little girl is Kim Yerim and baby is Kim Minjeong"
"Nice to meet you all" Irene say politely
"Nice to meet you too, unnie" says Jennie "Sorry that our house is messy. I haven't tidied up the house yet because Seulgi oppa did not inform me early about you two will stay here. Minjeong threw a tantrum, she didn't want to let me go. Jisoo oppa also arrived a few minutes early. He only able to clean a bit"
"It's okay, I understand"
"Hyung, noona...I want to make drinks for us. You two want cold drink or hot?" asked Jisoo
"Cold drink is good"
"Okay, what about you, noona?"
"Mine also cold drink"
"Noted" Jisoo go to the kitchen to prepare drink for them
"How long will both of you stay here?" asked Jennie
"Until Sunday. I hope we not troubling you guys" Seulgi say awkwardly
"Not at all, oppa. I'm happy that unnie is here so I'll not boring when you and oppa go to sport complex"
"Is Jisoo also a coach like you?" Irene asking Seulgi
"Yes, he is a soccer coach at YG High School. Thankfully he joined the workshop so I know where to leave you. I just told him before we dismissed"
"Oh I see"
Then Jennie remembered something "Oppa, unnie...we only have one extra room here. One of you can share a room with Yerim if you do not sleep together?"
"Is she okay if we share room?" asked Irene
"Of course unnie. Yerim is a social butterfly. She easily adapt when someone she just met"
"Okay then"
"When will you all go back to Seoul?" asked Seulgi
"On Sunday, together with both of you. Jisoo oppa's student have exam next week so we can't extent until Monday"
"Oh I see"
For the next three days, Irene spent her time with Jennie and her kids. She's having fun with them, especially the cheerful Yerim. Both of them are already close to each other. Jennie and Irene also become good friends. Irene finds out that Jennie runs her own boutique while Jisoo is a teacher. She promised to visit Jennie at her boutique when they return to Seoul. She interested at the clothes at Jennie's boutique after Jennie show her some pictures of clothes that available at her boutique
...................
Few days after they return to Seoul, Seulgi decides to settle the issue with Irene. He didn't want to keep it longer until Park Jinyoung found out about his relationship with Irene. Seulgi still feels guilty towards that guy. On weekends, Seulgi and Irene meet at the café. He picks her up at Bae's house. Irene doesn't have an idea about what will be going on later so she is happy thinking that Seulgi is not angry at her anymore. Her mood is good after Seulgi told her that they will go out. She wake up early and dress nicely for their date
"Irene, I asked you out today because I want to clean the mess between us" Seulgi stated
"Mess?"
"Yup, mess between you, me and Park Jinyoung"
Irene sighs heavily "I'm sorry, Seul. I'm sorry for not telling you that I have a boyfriend. I don't know what got into my mind as soon as I saw you. That time I had a big fight with Jinyoung. I don't talk to him for a few weeks, which makes me literally forget his existence. When he said he will come back, I'm worry. I'm worried if one of you finds out about this love triangle. Sadly I'm busted so early even though Jinyoung still don't have idea about I have relationship with you"
"So you don't have any plans to tell me or Jinyoung about us?" Irene forcefully shakes her head. She did not dare to look at Seulgi's face "That means you also don't want to let go of me or Jinyoung?"
Seeing Irene not giving a response, Seulgi knows the answer "You can't be greedy, Irene. It's not a right thing to do. You can't have both of us"
"It's hard to decide, Seul" Irene looking at Seulgi with teary eyes
"No matter what, you only can choose me or Park Jinyoung. I don't want to share and neither does he. No one wants to share a wife or girlfriend. Put yourself in our shoes, how will you feel if your boyfriend has another girlfriend when he dates you? I bet you also wouldn't like it"
"Seulgi, please"
Seulgi smiles shortly "I already know you can't make decisions so I come prepared. I decided to step back from this relationship. I'm not into sharing what is mine. You don't have to worry. I already met with Park Jinyoung a few days ago. I apologize to him for dating you without knowing his existence. I told him to not scold you too. Thankfully he is understanding and considerate. Park Jinyoung is a good guy. You're lucky to have him"
"Seulgi no..." Irene sobbing
"I'm sorry, Irene. This is our last talk as a couple. After this, we only met as friends. Thank you for the past few months. I'm very happy with you" Seulgi wiped single tears on his eyes. He try hard to stay strong, to not breakdown in front of the woman that he love so much "Park Jinyoung...he is here"
Irene was shocked then she looked over her shoulder. She saw Jinyoung approaching them
"I called him to pick you up. I can't drive you back anymore. I hope both of you'll be happy together" Seulgi stood up. He pat Jinyoung shoulder before leaving the café
Jinyoung sat in front of Irene. He felt bad seeing Irene looked so fragile right now. He never saw her cry so hard even when they had a big fight back then. Since that moment, he know he's not the one in Irene's heart
"Rene, let's go back. Don't cry here" Jinyoung softly speak to Irene while caressing her shoulder
Irene obeyed Jinyoung. Both of them leave the café. Jinyoung carefully walked Irene out of the café to his car. All the way to Bae's house, both of them do not speak a word. Irene's mood is dropping so Jinyoung decides to not disturb her. He knows when Irene is not in a good mood, she doesn't want to talk to anyone. She'll stay in her room until she feel better
.............
Today Jinyoung and Irene meet at the park. A week had passed since Seulgi and Irene broke up. Seulgi literally stopped contacting Irene and built a wall between them. Her family was also informed about the break-up because Seulgi told them personally. He comes to their house when Irene is not at home to explain their situation. He apologized for becoming a third person in Irene and Jinyoung relationship even though Irene's parents said it's not his fault.
"Rene, are you okay?" Jinyoung looked at the woman beside him. Irene is still sad after the break-up. She practically avoids talking to everyone. Their meeting today also Jinyoung have to ask few times until Irene say yes
"I'm fine" Irene mumble
Jinyoung sighs "Don't lie to me, Rene. I know you're not fine. You still remember Seulgi, don't you?"
"Jinyoung please, don't talk about it anymore" Irene begged
"I don't mean to bring back the topic that make you sad" Jinyoung lean against the bench "I want to strengthen things between us"
"What does that mean?" Irene puzzled
"Kang Seulgi...you love him, don't you?" Their eyes meet as Jinyoung mentions Seulgi's name "If you don't love him, both of you won't date. I heard it all from him. At first I thought you dated him because you were angry at me but when I see how broken you are when Seulgi leaves you at the café, I know who actually is in your heart. We used to argue and we also broke up once. I never see you in that situation. Even though we haven't met after you broke up with him, I know you're so lost. You forcefully talk to me and reply to my text. I can feel the changes in you, Rene. What do you want me to do now?"
"I don't know. I seriously don't know how to start again. I'm sorry, Jinyoung"
Jinyoung sighs heavily "Your actual feeling is for him whereas your feelings for me because you are indebted because I saved your life back then, right?" he took Irene's hand and tenderly squeezed it "Don't hurt yourself, Rene. You deserve to be happy even not with me. If there is no more love for me, you only need to tell me. I don't mind that. I always told you that we can't force love. The most important thing is sincerity. Maybe you and I are not meant for each other. If breaking up with me will make you happy then why not. I'm happy if you're happy"
"Jinyoung..." Irene can't continue as she sobbing hard
"Rene, I'll give back the happiness that you need. I give you back to Kang Seulgi. He is the one you need. He loves you so much. I can see he is hurting when he told me about his relationship with you and he stated that he'll step back for us. His love to you is the greatest love you ever know. I don't mind leaving you for a good man like him. He could do better than me"
"I don't think he want to accept me back"
"You must work hard to show him your love. Make him see your effort. He is worth fighting for. If possible, I'll talk to him so that he accept you back"
"No Jinyoung, I'll fight for his trust again. Seulgi is really hard to trust someone, plus, if that person broke it like me. I'll let him know that this time I not lie to him"
Jinyoung caressed Irene's head softly "That's good then. So we're over now. Please be happy with the love of your life"
Irene was tearful as she looked at Jinyoung "Please be happy too. I hope we can be good friends since we broke up on good terms. No matter what, I am still indebted to you. If not because of you, I already become a history now. I can't let you get out of my life just like that"
"Alright but if your boyfriend is not comfortable with us becoming friends then don't force it. Respect his decision" say Jinyoung
"Okay"
"Can I hug and kiss you for the last time?"
"Sure" Irene scoot closet to Jinyoung then they hug each other tightly
Jinyoung gave a last kiss on Irene's forehead "Thank you for everything. I'll miss every sweet and sour moment of us together. It'll be the best memory in my life"
Irene pulled back from the hug "Thanks for everything too. You take care of me. You respect me and your love for me. I'll always remember it"
"Yeah" Jinyoung blinks his eyes frequently to avoid his tears rolling down "We should go now. All the best for your fight"
"Okay, all the best for you too"
.........
Seulgi continued his day like usual. Deep inside he's still broken. He missed Irene so much, especially every night and weekend. To make himself forget about her, he busy himself with workouts and playing soccer with his friends. Sometimes he helps his family in their restaurant. With support from Seungwan, Jaehyun and his family, he able to forget his problem for a while
Due to cloudy weather today, Seulgi decided to stay at home, watching movies while building his muscles. His activity disturbed by the sound of a doorbell. With a lazy step, he walked to the door to see the unwelcome guest. He just want to rest today, not expecting any visitor
"Hi Seulgi" Irene flashing big smile as soon as Seulgi open the door
"Irene? What are you doing here?" Seulgi surprise seeing Irene presence
"Visiting you of course"
"Who will come with you?"
"Last time I checked, I came alone. You don't have plans to invite me in?" Irene asked boldly
Seulgi sighs and opens the door wider for his visitor. Irene happily walks to the living room without waiting for Seulgi. She make herself comfortable sit on the couch
"So what brought you here?" Seulgi asked after he sit on the other end of the sofa
"I come to see you. You know it's been a couple of weeks since we last meeting"
"If you want to check if I'm fine after the break up, don't worry. I'm doing well. I'm not going to jump from bridge or run into moving truck" Seulgi say casually
Irene cackles hearing Seulgi's answer. She found it funny even Seulgi speak in serious manner "I'm know you not going to do stupid things. Seulgi, I'm sorry for hurting you"
"You're forgiven. I'm not holding grudge"
"Thank you. Em...Seulgi..." Irene hesitant to continue
"What?"
"Can we...can we start again?"
Seulgi immediately looked at Irene with a puzzled face "Are you insane? You're dating Park Jinyoung yet you want to have a relationship with me again?"
Irene pouting "I broke up with Jinyoung"
"This is another crazy piece of news. Why did you two break up? He told me he is not going to make you sad but he will leave you. Ayy that guy, such an ungrateful person. I'll make sure I break his nose when I bump into him" Seulgi balled his fist
"Seulgi, listen to me first. Don't jump to conclusions yet. We broke up because Jinyoung knows that my feelings for him are not true love. I hold on to him because of what he did to me in the past. I didn't realize it until he told me. He doesn't want to continue our practically one sided love. Jinyoung sincerely let me go because he know my heart choose you" say Irene
"What has he done to you in the past that makes it hard for you to let him go even if you don't love him? Is he rape you or what?"
Irene wants to slap Seulgi's mouth for being so frontal but she holds her emotion. She doesn't want to make her plan fail. "When I was still a university student, I encountered the darkest memory in my life. I almost got robbed on my way back to my apartment. Thankfully Jinyoung passed by that area and he saved me. He fights with those jerks. They stabbed him on his stomach then ran away. The scar still can be seen clearly until now. Since that day, we got close to each other and ended up dating. We happily dated like other couples. Last year we broke up for a few months because I found him kissing his colleague. However, he successfully convince to get back to him again and we date for the second time. Our relationship went like usual until he was promoted and his time with me was getting less. When I return to Korea, we're in the middle of a big fight. I haven't talked to him for almost a month. I literally forget him when I'm with you. His return makes me scared because I don't want to lose both of you. I am so in love with you but at the same time I don't want to let him go. I was confused with my feelings. After he enlighten me, now I'm sure that the one that I really love is you, not him"
Seulgi listens carefully to Irene. Now he understands why Irene is so hard to choose between him and Park Jinyoung. Jinyoung plays a big role in her life and they are together for a couple of years. It understandable if she couldn't make decision easily
"Can I ask a question?" ask Seulgi
"Of course"
"Did he ever touch you?"
"You mean have sex?" Seulgi nods his head "He did but not so often because both of us are busy. Last we did it was seven months ago and it is only once after we date again. After that we don't have any intercourse"
"Oh I see"
"Are you disappointed that you're not the first one who touched me?" Irene asked with hesitation and worry
"No, I'm cool with that. It is impossible for couples to not do it unless they are LDR fighters. At least you know how to avoid yourself pregnant"
Irene felt relieved hearing the response "What about yourself?"
Seulgi chuckled, "Judging from my boldness the first time I touched you, do you expect me to never do it?"
"Oh right, you're so experienced and expert. How many girl you ever have sex with?"
"Two" Seulgi showing index and middle finger "One is my first girlfriend at high school and second is my ex-girlfriend but we do not do it frequently. I still don't want to be a young father. You're the third one"
Irene rolled her eyes "You're naughtier than me"
"I can't help it. I'm so attractive after all" Seulgi show off
"Seulgi"
"Em?"
"Can we build our relationship again?" Irene stare at Seulgi with full of hope
Seulgi looked at Irene with an unreadable expression "What reason should I start a relationship with you again?"
"Because I love you"
"It is not enough to convince me. My heart shattered badly this time. You know I'm trauma for second time in relationship"
"I can guarantee this time no one will come between us. I am not letting you encounter another trauma. I may not your first love but I want to be your last"
Seulgi rubbed his face "Give me time. I need time to deal with my feelings. Situation lately makes me emotionally tired. I hope you understand"
"Okay, I give you time but don't take too long. I need you" Seulgi only gives small nods in response.
Seulgi does not deny that he still has feelings for Irene. He is still deeply in love with her but at the same time the person that he loves so much breaks his heart badly. He is so confused with his feelings right now. Now he doesn't want to rush. If Irene is really for him, they will end up with each other no matter that happen
................
Irene walks back and forth in her room thinking about Seulgi's words earlier. Seulgi asking her to give him time keeps bothering her mind. She not sure what that mean because it could bring negative and positive meaning
Since her curiosity was getting big, she skipped to the living room to talk with Jaehyun. Her brother is playing PS5 in the living room. She hope that her brother can help her this time
"Jae"
"Yes noona" Jaehyun response without turn his focus from the TV
"I want to talk. Can you stop playing for a while?"
"I'm listening. What do you want to talk about, noona?"
"If someone said, give me time...what does that mean, Jae?"
Jaehyun paused his game to think about his sister's question "Give me time? In what sense?"
"In relationship"
The brother rubbing his forehead "It has two possibilities. One is rejection and one is that person really not ready" then Jaehyun realized something "Is this have something to do with you and Seulgi hyung?"
"Yes"
"What did you say to him this time?"
Irene tells her brother about her recent meeting with Seulgi that successfully makes her confused and bothers her mind. No one day she was not thinking about Kang Seulgi. She worries if Seulgi wants to move on from her and not give her another chance. She don't want to lose him
"Calm down, noona. Don't think negatively. I know Seulgi hyung still loves you. Deep inside his heart still written your name. You only need to show him your sincerity and you seriously want to be a part of his life. Please make sure that you also do not keep secrets from him. Make him trust you. You know you already broke his trust. It's time for you to fix it. Even though you can't fix it perfectly, at least you gain a decent piece of his trust. Seulgi hyung is considerate and kind, I believe that he'll give you a chance. Right time will come eventually" Jaehyun softly speak to his sister and stare at her with loving eyes
Irene hugged Jaehyun's arm and rested her head on his shoulder. "Thank you, Jae. I don't know what I could do if I don't have you. You're my best brother"
Jaehyun pecks Irene's forehead "My pleasure, noona. I want the best for you. I am the second man that should protect you after appa. I'm not going to let you be sad. You deserve all happiness this world had offer"
"Yah, you make me teary" Irene whine
Both of them laughed "I am not doing anything. It's you who start first"
Jaehyun gives a tissue box to Irene so she can wipe her tears. Jaehyun resumes his game and they talk about other topics. They have had a strong sibling relationship since they were still kids. Both of them are protective and caring towards each other. Whatever happens in his life, Jaehyun always tells his sister first and so does Irene. They never keep secrets. Their parents teach them to always be there for each other no matter what the situation is. Now they have grown up as the most sweet and loving siblings. A lot of people envy their relationship. Sometimes people mistake them as a couple instead of brother and sister. Jaehyun always joking that he still don't get a girlfriend because Irene is so clingy to him especially when they go out together
...............
Irene proves to Seulgi that she really seriously wants to get back to him. She showered him with unconditional love and care. Seulgi also feels comfortable with Irene's presence around him. They spend a lot of time together and keep-in-touch frequently. Irene also develops good relationships with Seulgi's family, especially his mother. As time flew, Irene and Mrs. Kang grew closer with each other. Seulgi felt pure happiness this time. His love for Irene is getting big. Since they become closer again, both of them decide to not having sexual intercourse. The least in only peck on lips, cheeks and forehead. They agree to not doing it for now
[Phone call]
Seulgi: Hello Joohyun
Irene: Hi Seulgi, what's up?
Seulgi: What are you doing now?
Irene: Lazing in the living room waiting for lunch time. I'm bored today. Jaehyun going out with his friends. Eomma and appa also visit grandpa and grandma. They will come back tomorrow
Seulgi: Poor thing. I'm sorry because I can't accompany you. The kids have training right now. I can't skip it
Irene: It's okay, Seul
Seulgi: Hyun, I'll pick you up later in the evening
Irene: We go out?
Seulgi: Yes baby, I'll come around 7 PM. Dress nicely, okay?
Irene: Okay Teacher Kang
Seulgi: Alright, I got to go now. Break time is over. See you this evening
Irene: See you too. I miss you
Seulgi: Miss you too
.......................
Seulgi arrived at Bae's house five minutes before 7 PM. He texted Irene to inform her about his arrival. Few minutes later, the front gate opened. Irene jogged towards Seulgi who leaned at his car, waiting for her. He opens his arms to welcome Irene to his embrace. Irene quickly throw herself to Seulgi as soon as she stand in front of him
"I miss you~" Irene whisper
"I miss you too" Seulgi kiss Irene's forehead softly "You're wonderful tonight"
Irene blushing hearing Seulgi praising her "You looked cool too"
"Cute. Let's get in" Seulgi open the car door for Irene then close it again after she enter
.................
"Seul, where are we going?" Irene noticed they are not heading to the area where they usually go for date
Seulgi smiles while still focusing on driving "Surprise~... You will like it. Trust me"
"Hm, it's rare that you don't tell me where we go. Usually you not a planner"
"Tonight let me be the planner for us. Next time you be the planner again"
"Whatever" Irene gave in. Seulgi is in mischievous mood so impossible for her to win against him
After half an hour, they arrived at the destination. Irene wonders why they come to this place at night. There literally nothing happen in this location at this time
"Olympic Stadium?" Irene looking at Seulgi for the answer
"Yep, let's go inside" Seulgi intertwine their fingers
"What will we do inside? There is no event organize right now"
"Aish, just follow me. Come on"
Irene just obeyed Seulgi. They enter the main entrance. The entire stadium is empty as Irene thinks. Before they walk into the entrance towards the field, Seulgi stop walking
"Before that, I need to cover your eyes" Seulgi took a sleeping mask from his pocket
"Seriously?"
"Yes, come on" Seulgi carefully cover Irene eyes with sleeping mask so that he not ruin her hairdo
"Okay, now let's continue"
"Seulgi, hold my hand" Irene grip tightly on Seulgi's hand
"Of course, baby. I won't let you bump into the wall" Seulgi cackle
They slowly walk to the field. There is no obstacle but Irene keeps whining about her safety so in the end they walk very slowly. Seulgi smiled when he saw what was presented in front of him. He hope Irene also will like it
"Have we arrived?" Irene asked when she noticed that they stop walking for a while
"Yes"
"Can I take this off now?"
"I'll take it off for you but don't open your eyes until I ask you to do so. No cheating"
"Okay"
Seulgi walks behind Irene. He takes off the mask from Irene. Then, he hugged Irene from behind "In count of three, open your eyes, alright?" Irene nods her head "One...two...three"
Irene slowly opened her eyes. Her eyes glare due to the light from the lamp and also her eyes have been closed for a while. She shut her eyes again to adjust the light. When she open it again, she inaudibly gasped as she saw the beautiful view in front of her
Seulgi prop his chin on Irene's shoulder "Will you marry me?" he read the wording that written on the banner in front of them
"Seulgi..." Irene voice shaking
Seulgi releases Irene from his embrace "Alright, you don't need to answer me verbally. You see those two mini goal posts?"
"Yes"
"If your answer is yes, kick the ball to the right post. If the answer is no then kick to the left, understand?"
"Yes"
"Here you go" Seulgi put the ball in front of Irene. She don't know when did he get that ball or she don't noticed it because too surprise seeing the view
"Do you think I can score properly?"
"Of course, you used to try shooting from 20 meter and you did it. You can do it this time. It only 11 meter" Seulgi say confidently
"But that goal post is big. This one is so small"
"Don't worry, you can try until success"
"Okay"
Irene takes a deep breath then slowly releases it. She get ready and kick the ball right into the right post
"GOAL" Seulgi shouted and he run around like he celebrate the goal
Out of the blue, Irene hears someone blow the confetti. When she turned around, she saw female and male soccer team members from SM High School running together with Seulgi while some of them jumping happily. Irene knows those students because she often follows Seulgi to school whenever the team has training on weekends. The team members also know her as well
"Congratulations unnie and coach Kang" said the tall student that Irene know as Joy
"Thank you, Joy" say Irene
"Coach, don't forget to invite us to your wedding. We promise to help you decorate your wedding venue. Our service is good, right?" other students asked
"Yup, Irene likes it. You guys are amazing" Seulgi give two thumbs up to his student
"They help you with the decoration?" Irene asking Seulgi
"Yes, it's their idea, especially the girls. I only bought the decorations that we need. Since this is public place, we agree to use simple decoration so that we not taking too much time to clear it"
"You guys are so sweet" Irene flashed a sincere smile to the student "How do you get permission to use this stadium?"
"I have friend who work in management team so I rent this place without trouble"
"Oh I see"
"Alright kids, before we dismiss, don't forget to help me clear the decoration" Seulgi said to his students
"Yes coach"
"Coach, can we take the flower?"
"Sure thing, I only take the banner"
"Okay coach! You're the best!"
Irene and Seulgi take pictures before they clean the area. Due to the female students' command, the couple do various kinds of posts. Irene and Seulgi enjoy it so much. They feel like hanging out with their siblings. After leaving the stadium, Seulgi treats them to dinner at a barbecue restaurant. At first the student reject because they don't want to disturb their teacher date but Seulgi and Irene insist so in the end they eat together
.............
Seulgi drove Irene back to her house after dinner. They holding hands romantically while Seulgi focus on driving to make sure his future wife arrive at home safe and sound
"Hubby, thank you for tonight" Irene stated after Seulgi pull off in front of her house
"I'm happy that you like surprises. You don't have any idea how worried I am if you only don't like it. I am not romantic at all. Who on earth made a wedding proposal at the stadium?" Seulgi cackle
Irene cupped Seulgi's face and made him face her "You're that person who makes wedding proposals at the stadium. I love surprises. My future husband is romantic on his own way"
"Thankfully the team was excited when I told them about my proposal plan. They immediately agreed when I asked for help. All of them are excited than me"
"They are creative"
Seulgi kissed Irene lips "Tomorrow night I'll bring my family to come to your house and announce our engagement. If possible, I want to settle down early but I need to hear your decision too"
"I'm ready to settle down anytime. My age is very suitable for marriage"
"Glad to hear that. We will discuss it again tomorrow. You should go in now. It's late already"
"I love you Teacher Kang"
"I love you too, Bae Joohyun"
Seulgi goes out to open the door for Irene. They kiss and hug before Irene enters the gate. Both of them are full of excitement waiting for the day for them to officially be together. Seulgi is worth to fight for while Irene worth to love
~END~