"Ms. Bae, your new bodyguard is here" Wendy, the secretary of Bae Juhyun or Irene come to the President Office follow by a tall man in black suit
"Good morning Ms. President, I'm Kang Seulgi. Your new bodyguard, ready to serve you" the guy introduce himself to his future boss
"Good morning Mr. Kang, welcome to RV Group" Irene offer handshake and Seulgi gladly accept "From now on, you're under RV Safety Department"
"Ok ma'am"
"Wendy, you can take your leave now" Irene said to her secretary
"Okay"
After Wendy leave, Irene sit on her place while Seulgi take a sit on the chair across to the boss
"Since you're my bodyguard, I want you to follow me anywhere I go either it's about work or personal unless I tell you that I will go alone"
"Okay ma'am"
"You'll do your work along with my secretary, Wendy and company driver, Kwon Yuri. I asked Wendy to prepare your table outside of my office so you will sit there while waiting for me"
"Okay" Seulgi nods his head
....................
Irene visit her family mansion after her father call her to talk about something important
"Hi appa" Irene hugging her dad tightly
"Hi my dear, it's been a while since you visit me" Mr. Bae said
"I'm busy at company appa, that's why I can't come often. If you miss me, we can meet at company"
Mr. Bae chuckle "Aigooo, appa busy with business trips nowadays so appa leave the company to you. After this appa will travel to Europe for weeks then maybe stay in California for a month or two to monitor your brother. You know he just take over that branch so he need lot of help"
Irene pouted "Appa, don't busy yourself with work. You should take a rest now"
"Appa still wants to travel around. Besides, if appa stays at home doing nothing, it is so boring. You know appa can't sit without doing anything, right?"
"Ask oppa to get married so that he can give you grandchild then you can play around with them" Irene teasing her dad
"Aigoo, your brother is still new in business so he has to focus. I kept asking him to pursue his study in business back then but he never listened and wanted to study music instead. That's why I don't trust him to lead the company. He is your junior in working even he's older"
"I still feel bad at oppa because I take his position"
Mr. Bae ruffled Irene's hair "It's okay, appa talked about it with him before and he understood. He also trusts you to be a leader. You're capable in everything"
"Thanks appa"
"Appa called you to come here because appa want to discuss something personal" Mr. Bae back to the real topic that he want to talk with his daughter
"Okay, what is it?"
"Appa want you to get married" Mr. Bae stated
"What?!" Irene practically yell
"I know you're shocked but I really want you to have someone to take care of you. I not getting young and your oppa not always here to protect you from any danger out there and listen to all your problems"
"Appa, how can I get married? I don't even have boyfriend"
"Appa not asking you to marry now but find someone who is reliable and can protect you in any situation. You're my only daughter so I want the best for you and your happiness is my priority"
"Appa, this is the hardest request you ever asked me" Irene sighs
"I know and I really want to see you walk down the aisle before I die"
Irene's eyes widened "Appa, don't say that thing. You're still young and healthy"
"We don't know when death will hit us"
"Appa please"
"Promise me that after this you'll bring your boyfriend to meet with me. I want a good man and not one who is crazy for money or your property. Find a decent man who is good enough for you. The one with a stable career and respectful towards everyone around him" Irene not answering her father "You already work so hard to make our company soaring upwards and you always make me proud with various achievements every year since you lead the company. Now is the time to focus on your personal life. You need someone to be with you in every ups and downs of your life. Maybe not now but soon enough you will understand what I mean. I experienced this a lot after your umma left us 3 years ago and my life is really empty. I don't want you to go through this situation this early that's why I want you to have your partner even you're busy with your job" Mr. Bae voice shaken as he finish talking
Irene also sobs when she hears her father confess "Sorry appa because I make you sad but give me time to do this. I can't choose randomly since I will gamble with my future"
"Whenever I think the time is right, I will call you to bring your boyfriend to see me. You know what I mean by anytime, right?" Mr. Bae looking at his daughter
"Yes appa" Irene sighs heavily
"Good" Mr. Bae pats Irene shoulder "I don't mean to trouble you but I do this for your own sake"
"I understand appa" Irene smiles at her father. She is well-known as an obedient daughter and her father loves her so much since she's the only daughter in their family.
..................
Irene calls Wendy to come to her office early in the morning to talk about the topic that has been bothering her since a few days ago. Wendy is Irene best friend since high school and now she is her secretary
"Yah, what's wrong with you these days?" Wendy noticed that Irene looked drained and gloomy lately
"Appa bring up the topic that makes me stop breathing when I visit him last week" Irene sighs heavily
"He found a stepmom for you?" Wendy guessing
"No, it has nothing to do with him"
"What is it then?"
Irene fake sobs "He wants me to get married"
Wendy gasped loudly "What?"
Irene told Wendy the whole story and it lift up the burdened on her shoulder
"Aigoo, what to do now?" Wendy asked
"I don't know. Do you know someone who is also single and matches with me?"
"You know I also have small circle of friends like you"
"What about your boyfriend?"
"That blonde American boyfriend of mine has quite a wide circle but do you accept someone who is into club and social butterfly?" Wendy said "You know Steph is DJ so his friends are more from his field"
"I don't think it match with my liking"
"That's why I am not suggesting Stephan's friends in the first place" the secretary said "What about Soojung and her boyfriend or Sooyoung and her soccer star boyfriend?"
"Soojung is the same as you and me. Taeyeon oppa I think more into a businessman or someone workaholic like him. Sooyoung and Yoong oppa, their friends are people from well-known background" Irene pout
"Aigoo, this person is so picky" Wendy glared at her best friend
"I want someone who looked cool, comfortable, not the famous one and someone who always available for me"
"You also quite famous now"
"That's why I don't want a famous partner. Famous person tend to be really busy person and limited time to spend with their loves one so if I meet someone busy like me, we rarely have time for each other" Irene reasoning
"So the point here is you want someone from regular background so that he always there for you whenever you need him and have plenty time for you even you're busy"
"Yes, you got it right this time" Irene snapped her finger
"Do you think you can find that type of man in this limited time?" Wendy hesitant
"Yes, that's why I need your help and I know we can find it. If not accurate, at least similar with the type that I want" Irene said confidently
"I will try to find a way but I not promise how long it will take" said Wendy
"Suit yourself, just don't take too much time. Appa said anytime and you know him anytime. It could be tonight, tomorrow or next year"
"Okay boss, I know and I will try my best to help you"
"Thank you so much"
"No problem"
...............
Seulgi and Wendy waiting for Irene who have meeting with her old friends, since it's not important, she asked her secretary to wait outside
"Mr. Kang, how long since you started your career as a bodyguard?" Wendy asked casually
"I start soon as I graduated from my university few years back then"
"So you used to escort high-profile people?"
"Yes, I used to work with politicians, businessmen and Ms. Bae is the first businesswoman that I escort"
"You work under contract, right?"
Seulgi nods his head "Yeah, the contract will be 2 or 3 years then we have to change place with the other"
Wendy is really into the conversation that she is interested to know more about Seulgi "It must be fun, right? Because you can change place and meet lot of people but the job is remain the same"
"It's fun yet tough, especially when the person you take care of faces a lot of threats. That's really dangerous, you know my job is sacrifice myself for people safety so I must aware of everything around me to make sure that person is safe and sound"
"Do you ever get involved in any dangerous incidents or fights?"
"I used to face some situations that required me to use my strength but not really serious. I also used to injured a lot"
"You must be good fighter" Wendy praising
"Just an amateur fighter, not the best one" both of them laughed happily
"I want to learn martial art too"
"Well, I encourage you to learn it for your own safety. I support your decision"
"I will talk about this with my boyfriend and tag him along" Wendy said enthusiastically
"I can bring you to the place where I learn so if your boyfriend agrees, we can go together"
"Thanks Mr. Kang" Wendy said happily
"Just call me Seulgi. It feels comfortable to hear"
"Okay, I will just call you by your name since we're same age"
"Okay, no problem"
................
Irene and Wendy have lunch at the restaurant
"Did you find any idea for your mission to get a couple?" Wendy suddenly asked
"Not yet, I still block" Irene shook her head "How about you?"
Wendy put her spoon on the plate as she finish eating "I have one good candidate but I not sure if you agree"
Irene was excited to know "Who is that?"
"He is someone I know and personally, I like how he expressed himself. He's quite friendly, comfortable to talk with and humble. Have a good look and stable carrier too so I guess your father will like him" Wendy said proudly
"Who is that guy?"
"Mr. Kang, your one and only bodyguard" Wendy said with wide smile
Irene's eyes turned round "You seriously want me to date him?"
"Yes, I told you that I like his personality. I am comfortable working with him so I guess you feel the same too. He's protective like an older brother, supportive and a good listener too. I used to tell him what I was interested in doing and he supported me and also gave me a lot of courage. I also share a lot of things with him, more like I told him what I feel and my hard times. He listened well to my stories and gave advice. He's really mature" Wendy singing praising Seulgi
"Seem like you like him a lot"
"I like him for you. After all investigation I did, he's close to the criteria that you want"
"I will think about it" Irene sighs
"Okay"
.....................
Irene on the phone with her father
"Hello dear, how are you?" – Mr. Bae
"Hello appa, I'm fine. How are you?" – Irene
"I'm fine too. Have you eaten your dinner?" – Mr. Bae
"Yes dad, I'm eat already" – Irene
"Good, about the things that we talked about before. Have you found someone already?" – Mr. Bae
"Not yet appa, I still searching" – Irene
"Aigoo, almost a month already but still no news from you" – Mr. Bae
"Sorry appa" – Irene
"It's okay sweetie. Tomorrow appa will depart to Europe and return 3 weeks later so on that period, appa expect good news from you" – Mr. Bae
"Okay appa" - Irene
"Take care of yourself. Don't overwork and don't skip meal" – Mr. Bae
"Okay appa, you also take care. I miss you" – Irene
"I miss you too dear. Goodnight" – Mr. Bae
"Goodnight appa" – Irene
...................
Irene drove her car to the VIP parking lot and she saw Wendy and Seulgi at the main entrance waiting for her. Both of them talk with each other casually like best friend
"Good morning Miss. Bae" both of them bow politely soon as Irene comes out of her car
"Good morning both of you" Irene reply with smile
The president rides the elevator to her office followed by her secretary and her bodyguard. Irene walks straight to her room while Wendy and Seulgi sit in their respective places. After get her notebook, Wendy go inside to meet her boss
"Hi, how are you today?" Wendy asked
"I'm good, just little bit tired" Irene said
"You looked not in the mood today. Are you okay?" Wendy is sharp to notice Irene expression
"Appa asked me again about the topics when he called few nights ago"
"I guess he said something that makes you stress that's why you looked stressful"
Irene nods her head "You're right"
"What did he say?"
"He wants me to bring my boyfriend to meet him when he returns from Europe 3 weeks from now"
"Aigooo" Wendy shakes her head "What to do now?"
"I don't know. I can't even think about that. This is the toughest request from appa since I born" Irene sighs
Wendy is thinking for a while "If we don't have any other way to settle this, we don't have a choice but ask Mr. Kang if he wants to date you. He is single now, don't worry"
"I don't know what to do anymore"
"I will help you to handle this if you agree. It's not that I keep suggesting him to you but he is the only closest one that I can find now. I don't know any other suitable guy for you"
Irene closed her eyes and massaged her temple "Tell him that I want to see him 1 hour from now and cancel my entire meeting today. I can't do my work in this state"
"If you do not agree, don't force yourself. I will find another way to help you" Wendy feels sorry at her friend
"It's okay; I will talk to him first"
"Okay then. I leave you here now to take rest"
"Alright, thanks for your concerned"
"No problem" Wendy said then she take a leave
Wendy walk to Yuri table "Seulgi"
Seulgi turns his head to Wendy "Yes sis" he flash charming smile
"Ms. Bae wants to see you one hour from now"
"Alright, noted"
1 hour later, Seilgi go to Irene office as she command
"Have a sit" Irene invite Seulgi to sit on the couch
"Okay" Seulgi sits across to his boss
"I want to ask a favor from you. This is personal and it's really important to me" Irene said straight forward
"If I can help, I will do" said Seulgi
"I want you to be my boyfriend" Irene stated firmly
Seulgi was taken aback by what Irene just said "Are you serious, Ms. Bae?"
"Yes, I'm serious. I want you to be my temporary boyfriend. Wendy will prepare our contract and you'll get a generous amount of allowance too" Seulgi not giving any response to Irene "You don't have to worry, no one will know about this. Only you, me and Wendy"
"This is hard" Seulgi mumbled
"No feeling involved in this, you must act like my boyfriend in front of my friends and my family. When we are here, you do your duty as usual. You only be my boyfriend in certain situation only"
"Hmmm" Seulgi sighs
"Do you agree?" Irene stare at Seulgi "I really need your help now"
Seulgi looking at the boss and sighs "Okay, I agree"
"Thanks Mr. Kang"
"You're welcome"
"I will ask Wendy to bring the agreement so that you can read and sign it"
"How long do I have to do it?"
"6 months"
"Okay"
Wendy comes to the office after Irene calls her. She bring a file that contained the agreement for the contract dating then she leave again
"Here is the contract, you may read it first" said Irene and she hand the file to Seulgi
Seulgi read the document attentively "I will start by tomorrow?"
"Yup"
Seulgi put the file on the table "Okay, I agree with this"
"Okay, we will sign it now" Irene said then she sign the agreement follow by Seulgi
"You said I will start tomorrow but tomorrow is Saturday and we're not working"
"We'll go out tomorrow. You will fetch me at my apartment then we go out for our first date"
"Alright"
"Remember to act like you're my real boyfriend and no feeling involve"
"I'm professional so you don't have to worry" Seulgi smile
"Okay"
...................
Seulgi goes to Irene's apartment to pick her up as the President told him. As he expected, the girl stayed at a luxury apartment complex with tight security. Luckily Irene informed the security guard beforehand so he don't have trouble to enter the area
"Where are we going?" Seulgi asked while driving
"Somewhere that calm and relaxing"
"I know a café where we can enjoy the ocean view. That place is calm and not crowded. Do you want to go?"
"Sure, let go"
"Alright"
As Seulgi described, the place is really go for relaxing and Irene enjoy the view
"Finally I found a good place for relaxing" Irene said while sipped her drink
"I always come here to calm my mind whenever I have hard times" said Seulgi
"Tell me more about you" Irene said
Seulgi chuckled, "There is nothing fun about me. My whole day is spent with work, gym and home. I actually don't know what to tell you"
"You said sometimes you come here to relax"
"It was when I really needed time for myself and during my long holiday while waiting for my next posting. When I start working, my life will go back to circle"
"Just tell anything, I don't mind"
"You ask me question that you want to know"
"Okay" Irene tapped her chin "Do you have a girlfriend?"
"Yes, I have"
"Really?" Irene shocked
"Yes, you're my girlfriend, isn't it?"
Both of them laughed "You're right"
"It's fine, you are not used to it yet. What else do you want to know?"
"How many siblings do you have?"
"I have an older brother. He stayed at France with my parent"
"So you're alone here?"
"Yes"
Irene asked the next question "If you're free, do you prefer to stay at home or go out?"
"Actually I rarely have free time. As I told you, my life is filled with work. I will go out with my friends when I'm off-day or long holiday. We will hangout at café or drink at bars to catch up. I'm not really social and not someone who stays at home doing nothing. I make it balance so that I know what happen around me"
"I am curious about this thing, what is your ideal type?" Irene curiously asked
Seulgi laughs lightly "I am not really picky. I just want someone who loves me for who I am. Most important is respect people around her, understand my carrier and not wild"
"You don't care about looks?"
"As long as not really ugly is good enough" they laugh again "Beauty can fade but good-manner stay"
"I agree" Irene nods her head
"Now it's my turn to ask about you" Seulgi grin
"Sure, go ahead"
"What is your favorite thing to do when you're free?" Seulgi first question
"Same as you, my life is filled with work so when I'm free I will stay at home. I just go out to meet my friends or visit my appa at the mansion. I rarely go to place like this"
"What if you need to relax?"
"I just sleep" Irene said with giggle
"No fun" Seulgi joking around
"I have a small circle of friends so we just go out when everyone has time. Everyone is busy with carrier so time to meet is limited"
"Wendy is your best friend, right?"
"Yes, since she works with me. She's close to me the most and listens to my problems"
"Aigooo, you should hangouts more with your friends"
"As I said, they are busy with their work and so does me"
Irene nods his head "So, for this 6 months I want you to experience everything that you never feel before"
Irene frowned "What do you mean?"
"I want you to explore the things that you never do before in this 6 months with me so that it'll be the best memory after we end one day"
"That's mean we will spend free times together"
"Yes, less working and more exploring something new. Arrange your schedule properly so that you have time for yourself and for your career. Bring yourself out of the box"
"What about you?"
"Of course I will accompany you. I'm your boyfriend so we will spend more time together on weekends with a lot of activities. 6 months is actually short is you fill it properly"
"Okay then" Irene smiles widely and she can't wait to do something that she has never experienced before. First day spent with Seulgi, Irene acknowledges what Wendy describes about him.
...............
Irene texting Seulgi in the afternoon
"Seul, are you busy this evening?" – Irene
"No, why?" – Seulgi
"I want to have dinner with my friend and I want to tag you along. They excited to meet my boyfriend" – Irene
"Okay, no problem. Just text me the place and time" – Seulgi
"Okay oppa, see you tonight" – Irene
"Alright" – Seulgi
That night, Irene met with her friends at usual place. Wendy also come along since they are best buddy
"Unnie, where is your boyfriend?"
"He's on the way"
"Soojung can't wait to see your tall, handsome and bear-like boyfriend" Wendy teasing Irene
"The description is power" Krystal said
"There he is" Irene pointed at Seulgi who just enter the café and walk towards their table
"Hi" Seulgi greet them
"Hi" Irene and Wendy waving
"Unnie, this is your boyfriend?" Krystal asked excitedly
"Yes" Irene smile proudly
Krystal and Seulgi looking at each other then they laughed "Yah, I don't expect it will be you"
"I also don't expect it will be me" Seulgi reply
"Both of you know each other?" Irene curious
"I meet him few times at the gym where Taeyeon oppa training that's why I know him"
"The world is so small" said Wendy
"I'm Taeyeon hyung trainer at the gym" said Seulgi and take seat beside Irene
"You should train him harder from now on. He gain weight after return from England" Krystal complain about her boyfriend
"I don't know you close with Taeyeon oppa" Irene said
"You don't have idea how close I am with him" Seulgi said jokingly
"You know him since university, right?" said Krystal
"Yes, we joined the basketball team. That's where we are close to each other and friends until now. I'm his trainer at gym and sometimes go out together for drink"
"Oh I see"
"Is he coming tonight?"
"Yes, he's on the way" said Krystal
Taeyeon arrived when they busy talk about random topic
"Sorry, I'm late" Taeyeon said
"It's okay" said Krystal
Suddenly Taeyeon noticed Seulgi sit beside Irene "Oh my God, dude"
"Hello" Seulgi waved playfully
"Juhyun, is this your boyfriend?" Taeyeon looked happy
"Yes oppa, he is my boyfriend" Irene said proudly
"Finally he gives up the title of long time bachelor" Taeyeon teasing Seugli
"I have to give up on that title even I'm proud of it" Seulgi said
"Sooner or later you have to end it too oppa" Wendy added
"You're right"
"Wen, our DJ Hwang not join us tonight?" Taeyeon asked Wendy
"He's at Philippines now, having lot of fun" Wendy answering while copying her boyfriend DJ skill
"I envy him" Taeyeon said
"You can go with him too"
"Someone will skin me alive if I go with him" Taeyeon signal his eyes to Krystal
"Whipped" Seulgi comment with laugh
"Have you ever met his boyfriend, dude?" Taeyeon looking at Seulgi
"Of course, Wendy and her boyfriend learn martial art at our teacher"
"Wow, Wendy, you learn martial arts nowadays?" Krystal and Irene looking at Wendy in disbelieve
"Yes, I started learning like a month ago together with Steph oppa. Seulgi introduce his trainer to us"
"I want to learn too" Krystal said to Yuri
"Sure, you can join Wendy and Stephan"
"Watch out Taeng oppa, she's learning martial art now" Irene jokingly said
"I need to be more careful now" Taeyeon said
Seulgi walked Irene to her car after they decide to go home
"Thanks for coming tonight" Irene said
"No problem"
"I really don't expect that you know them. You're quite friendly" Irene chuckled
"I meet them by coincidence so yeah, it turned out everyone are best friend" both of them giggle
"So, see you tomorrow at office"
"Want to have breakfast together?"
Irene grin "Sure, why not"
"Okay, I will pack breakfast for us then we will eat at your office"
"Alright"
"See you tomorrow. Drive carefully" Seulgi open the door for Irene
"Okay you too, goodnight"
"Goodnight"
.........................
Seulgi arrives at the office holding a paper bag that contains their breakfast. He also buys for Wendy
"Good morning sis" he greet happily
"Morning Seul"
"This is your breakfast. My treat" Seulgi put the bag on Wendy table and a cup of warm milk tea
"Wow, thanks Seul" Wendy said cheerfully "Look like someone is having breakfast date today" she teasing Seulgi
"Aigoo" Seulgi suddenly shy
"Isn't it good if both of you date for real"
Seulgi sighs "She deserve someone better than me"
"Please take care of her for these 6 months. She is my precious friend"
"I promise you that I will make her the happiest person in these 6 months so that she will have sweet memory with me as her boyfriend"
"Glad to hear that" Wendy smiles happily "Let's go downstairs. She's almost arrive"
"Okay"
Irene and Seulgi have breakfast in the office
"Seul"
"Emm" Seulgi chewing his sandwich
"Taeyeon oppa knows that you work as a bodyguard?"
"He know"
"So, he knows that you're my bodyguard?" Irene eyes widened
"No, he doesn't know about that. We never talk about work when we meet"
"Okay then" Irene smile
..................
In her office, Irene is busy with her work and she doesn't notice the time is late at night. Her phone ringing on the table distracts her focus. The call is from Seulgi
"Hello Seul" – Irene
"Hello, I'm outside of your office now. Can I come in?" – Seulgi
"Ohh, alright" – Irene
After the call, Seulgi came with plastic bags in his hand then he put it on the table. After that he takes sit on the chair
"Hi"
"Hi Seul, how did you know I'm still here?" Irene asked
"I passed by this area and I saw your car still there. That's why I know that you are not going home yet. Besides, you're not texting me since evening so I guess you must be busy. I buy food for us because I know you skip dinner time"
"I have to check this document that's why I kind of busy today"
"Can't wait until tomorrow?"
"No, they need this tomorrow"
Seulgi sighs "You're not hungry?"
"A little bit but I can handle it"
Seulgi go to the table and get one of the food packs "I will feed you while you do you work" he pull the chair and sit beside Irene
Irene shocked "Seul, it okay. I will eat later"
"No, I insist" Seulgi open the pack and scoop the food with plastic spoon "Now open your mouth"
Irene give in "Okay" Seulgi carefully feed her "The food is tasty" she commented
"This is from my favorite restaurant" Seulgi said while ready to feed the girl again while Irene also busy with her work
"Okay, done. Now you back to your work and I want to feed myself" Seulgi said
"Thanks Seul"
"You're welcome" Seulgi smile widely
Seulgi sits on the couch while enjoying his food. Sometimes he took a glance to Irene and that girl really focus on doing her job
"Seul, you're not sleepy?" Irene suddenly asked
"No, this is not my bedtime yet" Seulgi chuckled. "Are you done?"
"Yes" Irene tidy up her desk and put her stuff inside her bag
"Let's go home"
"Alright"
"Let me carry your bag" Seulgi get the bag from Irene hand while the girl just bring her own handbag
"Thanks for accompany me tonight" Irene said
"No problem, it's my duty after all. Duty as boyfriend and bodyguard" they giggle
"You're right" Irene yawn
"I will drive you home. Just left your car here" said Seulgi
"It's okay, I can drive myself"
"You're sleepy so I not allow you to drive" Seulgi grab Irene wrist and they walked to his car "Come"
The ride is silent as Irene falls asleep after a few meters away from the company. Seulgi wrapped his jacket on Irene in case she's cold. He stopped his car in the parking lot and was hesitant to wake up the girl who was sleeping comfortably. After few minutes battle with himself, he finally decide to wake her up
"Juhyun" Seulgi tapped Irene arm lightly but she didn't move "Juhyun"
"Emm" Irene slowly opened her eyes "We arrived?" she stretching
"Yes and sorry because I disturb you sleeping"
"Sorry too because I don't notice we're arrived" Irene giggle awkwardly
"It's okay, I know you're tired. Let me walk you upstairs" Seulgi offer
"Okay" this time Seulgi carried the bag and handbag
"Thanks for drive me here and carry all these" Irene said when they stop in front of her door
"My pleasure" Seulgi give the bags to Irene "I will pick you up tomorrow morning"
"Okay" Irene nods "You want to come in?"
"No, it's late already. I will just go home"
"Alright, drive carefully. Text me when you arrive"
"Sure, goodnight"
"Goodnight Seul" Irene waving and she wait until Seulgi enter the elevator before she go inside
.......................
Typical Saturday when Irene and Seulgi hangouts as usual but this time Irene is not cheerful as before, she looked like not in mood
"Are you okay?" Seulgi looking at the girl in front of him
"I'm okay" Irene answered weakly
"You looked messy since yesterday. Is there something bothering you?" Seulgi concerned
Irene sighs heavily and tells her problem to Seulgi. As usual, Seulgi listens to whatever Irene told him and never interrupts her
"Did you find the solution already?" he asked after Irene finish talking
"We worked on it now"
"That's good then"
"Seul" Irene looked at Seulgi side profile
"What?"
"If you face a big problem, what will you do to calm your mind?" Irene curious and excited to know what Seulgi will do because that guy always comes with interesting idea
Seulgi smile before answer the question "I will go to church"
"Church?" Irene puzzle
"Yes, I will pray so that I find a way to solve my problem. It really helping to heal myself when I go through hard times"
"Okay" Irene dumbfounded as she never expect the answer
"I will go to church tomorrow; do you want to come along?"
"I...will tell you tonight" Irene stutter
"Alright"
That night, Irene make phone call to Wendy
"Hello unnie" – Wendy
"Wendy~" – Irene
"Why suddenly call at night? Usually you go out with your brand new boyfriend" – Wendy
"This is an urgent thing I want to tell you. Really urgent" – Irene
"Tell me now" – Wendy
"I told Seulgi about the problem yesterday, then I asked him how he heals himself if he has hard times. Guess what his answer is?" – Irene
"Going to club and drink with his friends" – Wendy
"No, it something unexpected" – Irene
"What is it?" – Wendy
"He said he will go to church" – Irene
"Wow, one in a million. I like that answer" – Wendy
"That's why I not expect his answer" – Irene
"So, what happened after that?" – Wendy
"He invite me to go tomorrow" – Irene
"Then, are you going?" – Wendy
"I not give him answer yet" – Irene
"Aigoo, does that mean you don't want to go?" – Wendy
"I do not reject or accept it. You know that I go to church like once a year during Christmas" – Irene
"So use this opportunity to go and bring yourself close to God. Pray that the problem will settle soon and the project will go well. As I said just now, he is one in a million. It's hard to find a man who will choose this way whenever they face problem" – Wendy
"Okay, I will go" – Irene
"May God hear your prayer" – Wendy
"Alright, thanks" – Irene
"Goodnight" – Wendy
Next day, Seulgi and Irene go to the church together
...............
Few days later, Seulgi quickly go inside Irene room soon as she call him to come
"Yes" he said after close the door
Irene quickly ran towards him and hugged him tightly "Seulgi!" she squeal
"Y-yes?" Seulgi hesitantly hugging Irene back and pats her back in awkward manner
Irene pulled back from the hug and smile cheerfully "Wendy informed me that the problem was settled successfully" she still doesn't notice her sudden action earlier
"Oh, congratulations, God answer your prayer" Seulgi ruffled Irene hair
"Thanks to you too Seul"
"My pleasure"
...........
Irene and Seulgi sit on the bench at the park while watching kids playing around with their parents
"It has been 5 months since I become your boyfriend and we have one more month to go" Seulgi chuckled
Irene stare at Seulgi "I don't realize it"
"Me too, I just remember it when I check my calendar this morning"
"Time flies so fast" Irene stared at her feet
"Yeah, it feels like yesterday that we started our fake relationship" Seulgi turns his head to face Irene "Are you happy with me?"
Irene smiles sweetly "I am really happy since we're together even if it's not for real. I never feel this free before and I learned lot of thing from you"
"I'm thankful that I can make you smile and bring up your mood when you're down. I can't do that anymore after the contract end"
"Yea" Irene answer absentmindedly
"You're still young and still have a long way to go so enjoy your time for yourself even when you're busy. Find a good man to protect you better than I am. A man that can lead you to a good path and give you the happiness that this world offers"
"Seul, you talk like we will separate soon" Irene chuckled. For some reason, what Seulgi said just now make her sad
Seulgi laughed "I don't mean to spoil the mood but what if I don't have a chance to say this to you at our last moment? We don't know what future hold so whenever I have chance to say what come to my mind, I will voice it out"
"Okay" Irene nods her head "Honestly, I cherished every moment we spent together. I appreciate everything you teach me and you guide me to be more mature in handling my emotions and problems. I can express myself better than before"
"I'm happy that I leave you with good memories"
"Thanks for everything" Irene stare at Seulgi
"You're most welcome" Seulgi smile
............
"You know what, this month is fifth month since I'm together with Seulgi" Irene said to Wendy when they talk in her office
"Wow, it so fast"
"I feel it too" Irene sighs
"Next month is your last month. If I on your position, I hope it will not end soon" said Wendy
"I don't know how it will go after next month. You know I used to share problem with him, going out together and much more" Irene confess sadly
"It will be so hard to let go of a man like him" Wendy feel sorry at her friend
"He has everything women want for a boyfriend. He respects everyone including me. Seulgi is funny, caring and thoughtful. He will ask permission if he want to plan something for us in case I don't want to do it"
Wendy smile "He is gentleman and even your dad like him too"
"Yes, appa also like him"
"How will you tell your dad about this? You know sooner or later, you have to tell him the truth"
"I not think about it yet" Irene rubbed her face
Someone knocked on the door, distracting their conversation. "Come in," Irene said. The door open and Seulgi appear
"Can I sit?" Seulgi asked
"Sure"
Seulgi sits beside Wendy on the empty chair "I have something important to inform both of you"
"What is it?" Irene and Wendy asked
"I got a call from my agency just now. They told me that I was selected to join the elite team to escort one of the VVIP from the States to an important event in the Middle East. They want me to return to HQ this weekend"
"How long will you go?" Irene expression change
Seulgi slowly shook his head "I don't know how long it takes"
"Is it a dangerous mission?" Wendy asked
"Yes because whenever special force is needed, the mission is dangerous and risky"
Wendy and Irene gasped "When will you depart?" Irene asked
"Next week, I have to go to HQ to attend intensive training then we will depart a week later"
"Are you joining us again after you return?"
Seulgi chuckled, "I promise not to do that. As I said just now, this is the most dangerous mission and risky so I can't promise you anything"
"Aigoo" the girls sighs
......................
Irene and Seulgi meet at the park at night. Suddenly the meeting feels sad for both of them and no one talk cheerfully as usual
"Juhyun-ah"
Irene lifted her head to look at Seulgi "Yes" she can't hide the sadness anymore
"I'm sorry because I have to leave you before the contract end"
"It's okay Seul, I understand that you have more important tasks to do. I still hold on us until the sixth month end and I hope we can be together on our last moment" Irene shed tears
Seulgi pulls out a box from his pocket and gives it to Irene "Actually I want to give this to you on our last day but I don't know if I can make it on that day so I give it now. This thing I bought for you was special for our last day so I hope you don't open it until our last day. Just keep it for now"
"Seul, I know you will make it. I know you will come on that day and I want you to give this to me personally" Irene said under her sob
Seulgi hugged Irene for the first time "I do not promise anything to you because I will battle with my own life for this mission. I don't want you to wait for me on that day. Just promise me that you'll be happy with the memories that we create together for these past months" he stroke Irene hair softly
"I don't want to let you go yet" Irene tears a wet Seulgi shirt but she doesn't care. Her grip tightened on his shirt like she don't want to let him go
"Me too but this is my duty. If nothing happens, I promise that I will come back to you. If not as your boyfriend, I will come as your bodyguard. That's all I promise you" Seulgi caressed Irene cheek after they break the hug
"Can I send you off on the day you depart?" Irene looking at Seulgi with sad eyes
"No, it's dangerous. Just stay at home and keep yourself safe"
"Okay" Irene pout
................
It has been a week since Seulgi returned to his agency and the situation had a huge effect on Irene. She changed a lot after Seulgi's departure. She is not cheerful and energetic like before. Seulgi's departure makes her feel like she lost half of herself and she misses him so much.
"Irene" Wendy voice bring Irene back from her own world
"Y-yes"
"You're zoning out, are you okay?" Wendy worriedly asked
"I'm okay"
"This letter for you, someone leave it at front desk then they give it to me" Wendy give a letter to Irene and she read it quickly
Juhyun-ah, this is Seulgi
I hope that you're doing fine these days. Today I will depart overseas so you take care of yourself, okay? Don't be sad and be happy as usual. Don't skip your meal and take enough rest. I'm not there anymore to feed you when you're busy. Sorry because I will not contact you because we're not allowed to use our phones during training. I'm really tired with this intensive training but don't worry, I will be okay. Say hi to my sis, Wendy and the others too. I miss you so much. Hope we can meet again in the future. Bye
Love, Kang Seulgi
Irene tears rolled down soon as she finished reading the letter "Irene-ah" Wendy jog to Irene side and hug her "Don't cry" she cooed and comforting her friend
"He send goodbye letter" Irene sobbing in Wendy embrace
Wendy read the letter that Irene put on the table and she's also sad for the couple. She knows both of them love each other but the contract turns them down.
After Irene calms down, Wendy releases her from the embrace and sits back on the chair "You don't be sad. I don't want to see you in this state"
"I can't help it" Irene wipe her tears with tissue
"You love him, don't you?" Wendy question totally make Irene shocked
"Yes" Irene admit her feeling
"He knows it?"
"He don't know because we never talk about that" Irene denied
"That is because of your contract, right?"
"I guess so"
"It can be broken even if you sign black and white. He is your happiness so you can just cancel the contract and date him for real"
"What if he doesn't love me?"
"He loves you, trusts me and is the same as you, he is tied by the contract. He can't do anything because of that so he just loves you silently. Action speak louder than word"
"I can feel his affection towards me"
"When he comes back, tell him your feelings and date for real. You found your other half already. I can see big changes in you since you close to him but I'm sad because it just temporary" said Wendy
"I hope he will come back safely" Irene sighs
"Pray so that God always be with him and he can come back to you"
"Okay"
.........................
A glass on Irene's hand falls down to the floor as she reads the news on her iPad. Her hand trembled after reading the news about Seulgi and his team being injured in the incident during the event that the VVIP attended. The team members injured badly
"Yah, what happened?" Wendy panicked after hearing the sound of breaking glass from the office "Hey, are you okay?"
"This" Irene gives the ipad to Wendy
"Oh my God" Wendy gasped after reading the news "This is the team that Seulgi joined, right?"
"Yes" Irene sobbing hard
"I will call his agency to ask about this news. You take rest first, okay?"
"Okay" Irene nodded weakly
Wendy proceeds to call Seulgi's agency after calling the cleaner to clean the mess. Few minutes later, she comes back to the office
"I talked with their officer just now and they can't give more info regarding the incident because it is still under investigation. I also informed that all of them were seriously injured by gunshot and hospitalized"
"Will they bring them back soon?"
"They can't guarantee that because the situation is still dangerous. Seulgi and his members will be treated at local hospital but their current situation still uncertain due to serious injury"
"If I know that mission will be this dangerous, I will not allow him to go" Irene voice full of regret
"It's not your fault. Seulgi used to tell us that his job is really dangerous when it involves important figures so we have to expect this to happen" Wendy said and she rubbed Irene back to sooth her "Calm down and think positive. Pray that Seulgi will come back to you safely, okay? He is strong man, he can make it"
"Okay" Irene still sobbing softly
Irene stopped her car in front of a certain place that she always looked for recently and that place brings her close to Seulgi even though they are far apart. She slowly step her foot inside the church and her heart pounding as she slowly walked inside
She kneels in front of the altar then clasped her hands and closed her eyes to pray. Her tears stream down her cheeks as she says her prayer and she lets it down her face. Current situation is so hard for her and she needs comfort from someone dear to her but sadly that person is on the other side of the world fighting for his life. All she can do is pray for him and it make her feel close to him
...............
Irene sat on the grass by the river while enjoying the peaceful evening view. Lot of people doing their activity with family or friends but it not distracting her at all
'Seul, how are you now? Are you fine there? Did you eat well?' Single tears slowly rolled down her cheek and she wiped it
'Today is the last day of our contract, how I wish you're here with me to enjoy our last moment together as a contract couple. I missed you so much Seul and I can't go through this journey alone without you' she sobbed softly
Suddenly she remembers the box that Seulgi gave her. She searched for it in her handbag to check the content. She never opens the box because Seulgi wanted her to open it on their last day so she keeps it safely inside her handbag. After heaving heavy sigh, she open it and saw silver ring with a blue paper folded neatly inside
"Seulgi" she whisper sadly and take out paper
Hyun today is our sixth month together. It makes me sad every time I think about our separation and I really don't want this day to happen. In my childish mind, I want the day to stop until yesterday so I can enjoy more time with you but we can't avoid it, right? The days I spent with you are the greatest moments ever I had in my life. You're my first love. I always want to tell you how much I love you and how much you mean to me but I don't have the strength to voice it out. Right now, I just want to tell you that I love you so much and I don't want to let you go. I don't care about the contract. All I want is you to be mine now and forever. I'm a coward because I can't tell you personally. I'm afraid of rejection so I just sent a letter to you. This ring is a sign of me proposing for you. If you accept me, wear this ring when we meet tomorrow but if you reject me, put it on my table. I can't wait to know your answer. I love you Bae Juhyun.
Love, Kang Seulgi
Irene smiles unknowingly after she reads the letter then she inserts the ring on her finger. It fit well on her ring finger. She stares at the ring and rubbing it
'Seul if you are here with me, you must be happy when I accept you to be my real boyfriend. I will wait for you no matter what. I don't want other guy to be my boyfriend' she kissed the ring 'I love you too baby' she thought
Irene put on her sunglass before she left the place so that no one noticed her puffy eyes
................
Irene was reading a magazine in the living room when she heard the doorbell ringing. She sighs before walking to the front door. As she opened the door, she was shocked when greeted by the figure that she missed so much. Seulgi stands in front of her with his right arm wrapped with bandage and a sling while his left hand holds a bouquet of roses. He looking at Irene lovingly with sweet smile
"Hi" Irene breaks the silent since Irene is zoning out
"S-Seul, this is really you?" Irene stutter
"Yes, I'm home" both of them stare at each other with teary eyes. Seulgi give the flower to Irene then she hug her tightly "I missed you" he kissed Irene crown
"I missed you badly" Irene cry on Seulgi shoulder
"Sorry because I couldn't make it yesterday. I make you wait" Seulgi sobbing softly
"I don't mind as long as you come back safely. You don't know how worried I am when I heard about your injury and I feel like I lose half of myself" Irene said after pulled back from the hug
Both of them go inside and sit on the couch "I almost can't survive from the injury and thankful that I can make it. I was shot twice on the right shoulder and fractured my right arm so my right side is useless now. Their medical team is no joke" Seulgi joking
"I can't believe you still joking with your injury" Irene glare at Seulgi
"Do you want me to cry in pain?" Seulgi gasped playfully
"At least act like someone in pain"
"I used with these kind of pain so let our tears mean I don't deserve this job"
"I know you're strong man" Irene said
"Yeah"
"What about your team members?"
"The injured members was direct to hospital while the rest return to HQ then will take rest at home" Seulgi answered
"You're injured so why not direct to the hospital?" Irene curious
"I resist going to hospital immediately so as soon as we land here, I take cab to your apartment"
"Aigoo, you shouldn't abandon your health" Irene sighs
"You're more important than my injury. I can handle this later but you're over everything. Soon as I wake up, all I think is you and I can't wait to return to our country to see you" Seulgi said sincerely
Irene can't help but teary because of the confession "I pray every day so that you can come home safely and it's hard for me to learn about your injury"
Seulgi wrapped his left arm around Irene's shoulder and brought her to his embrace "Now I'm home safe and sound. You don't have to worry anymore and don't cry" he kissed Irene crown
"Okay" Irene rested her head on Seulgi chest
"Can you drive me to hospital tomorrow?"
"Why?"
"I will see the doctor for my injury and maybe hospitalized for the treatment"
Irene pout "There, you will leave me again"
Seulgi chuckled, "You can visit me every day, right?"
"Okay, I will accompany you tomorrow"
"What is your answer for my confession?" Seulgi nervously asked and Irene can hear his heartbeat getting fast
Irene slowly raises up her left hand until Seulgi eyes level to show the ring on her finger "You got it?"
Seulgi grin goofily "We're dating for real now?"
"Yes, I'm your girlfriend. Forget about the contract because we don't need it anymore"
"I love you" Seulgi said
"I love you too baby"
Seulgi slowly lean forward and capture Irene lips for the first time
.....................
Seulgi was hospitalized due to his injury and doctors do their best to treat his wound so that he can return to his shape quickly. Irene never fails to visit him and spends her weekend at hospital with her boyfriend.
"Baby, I bought food for you. Yesterday you complain about hospital food" Irene put the container on the table
"Hospital food taste awful"
"You have to consume healthy food to heal quickly"
"I want to eat Pringles, burger, fried chicken, pizza, spaghetti, ramyeon and grilled pork belly" Seulgi whine like a kid
"Junk food" Irene shook her head "You don't care about your muscles anymore?"
"I will workouts after eat that food" Seulgi grin
"I can buy that for you after you discharge but now you must eat something healthy" Irene nagging
"You and doctor are same"
"I will be a doctor if I not study business before" Irene said "Come, open your mouth"
"At least your cook is better than hospital's" Seulgi comment after chewing his food
"Me and hospital are different" Irene said
"You're right. You're my personal caretaker but hospital take care of whole country" Seulgi grin
"You and your flirt" both of them giggle
After finish the food, Irene sit on the chair beside the bed
"Bear, after this I want you to work under my company permanently" Irene stated
"I don't understand"
"I want to talk with your officer that I want you to work fully under RV Group without contract or whatever related to them"
"It will take few procedure and payment"
"I don't care how much it cost or whatever procedure it takes as long as you will be my permanent employee"
"Why do you suddenly want me to change companies?" Seulgi puzzle
"I don't want you to be involved in any sort of dangerous mission anymore. I can't handle it one more time. You will be my permanent bodyguard"
"I love my job" Seulgi sighs
"Baby, I know you love your job but your safety is important to me. I don't want you to do this anymore. I don't want you to get hurt and hospitalized like now" Irene said while squeeze Seulgi hand softly
Seulgi looking at Irene "Okay, I follow your decision" he gives in as he doesn't want to hurt his girlfriend. As much as he loves his job, Irene is his new priority and he doesn't want her to feel the loss if something unexpected happens to him during his mission.
"Thank you baby"
"You're welcome honey"
Someone knocked the door caught their attention and Wendy pop her head inside "Hi"
"Hey, come in" Irene said happily
"Hi sis" Seulgi greet Wendy happily
Wendy steps inside followed by her boyfriend, Stephan Hwang. Krystal also comes with Taeyeon and his sister, Kim Yerim. Joy comes with Im Yoong, her beloved boyfriend
"Are we interrupting something?" Taeyeon asked
"No, we just have casual talk" Irene answer
"The topic must be hot" Taeyeon grin mischievously
"We bad-mouthing you" Seulgi fired back
"Serve your right, dude" Stephan teasing Taeyeon
"We bad mouthing you too" Seulgi said to Stephan
"Do you want to break your left arm too?" Stephan glare playfully
"Call the police and tell them that DJ Hwang wants to hurt me" they laughed at the joke
"Seulgi, how is your condition now?" Krystal asked
"I'm getting better after the treatment"
"When will you be discharged?" Wendy asked
"Not sure yet because the injury quite serious so still need further treatment"
"I still can't believe that you badly injured hyung. First I think I misheard when Joy tell me about you then I tell my teammate, they also shocked" said Yoong
"The opponent is tough and they tricked us. If we found out their tactics early, we wouldn't end up like this. We're ready but you know when people do something out of expectation"
"It's really hard especially the cunning opponent"
"We expect that this will be tough that's why we do intense training before depart but maybe God not by our side that time"
"You're last man standing, right?" said Taeyeon
Seulgi chuckled "When I turned around, I was surprised to see my members were injured. I return the shot few times before passed out by the second shot on my shoulder"
"As expected from the top dog" Stephan and Taeyeon said proudly
"I know you quite long but I don't know your job will be this tough" Yerim said in awe
"Only certain people know more about my carrier"
"Oppa also never tell me more about it" Yeri looking at her brother
"He asked me to keep it secret so I never tell anyone about whatever I know about him" said Taeyeon
"I can't expose a lot about my identity because it will be disadvantage to me too" Seulgi explained
"You're right"
"Gym is quiet since you're not around" Yeri said again
"The owner said he worry if no one come to his gym because you're his regular visitor" Joy giggle
"Seulgi surely can't visit gym for few months" said Krystal
"He doesn't love his muscles anymore after the mission. He craving for lot of junk food" Irene said
"I don't mean that" Seulgi covers his face playfully
"Someone whipped now" Taeyeon teasing Seulgi
"Be careful Seul, woman always right" said Stephan and Wendy pinch his tummy. The other laughed at Stephan who practically abused by Wendy
....................
Irene arrived at the hospital in the evening and Seulgi was really happy to see her come. He's alone whole day because Irene need to go to office and can't accompany him
"Hi, how are you today?" Irene peck Seulgi cheek
"I'm fine and I missed you" Seulgi looking at his girlfriend lovingly
"I'm busy today that's why I not visit you this afternoon" Irene sit on the bed edge facing Seulgi
"I understand and I don't want you to neglect your work for me. As much as I'm important to you but your work must be your priority"
"Okay baby" Irene said
"Appa called me earlier and he said hi to you" said Seulgi
"He will return to New York tomorrow, right?"
"Yes"
"Wendy and I will go to your agency this morning to discuss about you. They agree to release you with conditions. My company gives you privileges like what you got at your agency which I instantly agree to. You rank still remain as Captain Kang and they give you honor as VVIP in every event that they held"
Seulgi grin happily "Wow, I never know that they so generous to me"
"You're their best officer and they love you. It's hard for them to let you go but since they know me and appa so they consider it this time"
Seulgi looks at Irene proudly and adores her capability "I also think that I want to retire from the team since I'm getting older and my strength is also unlike before. People think that I am still strong enough to lead the team but actually I suffered physical pain for years. I want to take rest and think about my future also my family"
"After this you can rest as long as you want and treat whatever pain you suffer"
"Actually I plan to work until 35 years old at least but since now I have opportunity to stop early, I gladly use that chance even I love my job so much"
"You still work like before and the only change is the environment and workload. You will not be exposed to danger anymore, no more fighting and shooting with the enemy. After this, I want you to treat whatever sort of pain that you suffer all this while. I want you to stay healthy"
"Okay boss" Seulgi obeyed "Come hug me" Irene moved closer and hugged Seulgi. She rest her head on Seulgi shoulder
"Do you think I'm over controlling you?" she asked
"I love this side of you. You're more mature than your age. You do this for my own sake and that's mean you care about me"
"I want all the best for you also for our future"
"I feel bad because I can't do as much as you did to me. Thanks for everything and I love you so much" Seulgi kissed Irene temple lovingly
Irene tightened her hug "I never imagined I will get a great man more than I asked for. Having you in my life is such a blessing for me. You come in unexpected time and I promised that I love you till the end of my life"
"You're my great woman too" Seulgi whisper lovingly
~END~