A Touch of Some PERFECT-ness

To the non-Pinoy readers, I suggest, you pass on this one, it may not be worthy of the risks as you may suffer from headache, hypertension, bleeding of various body orifices and even stroke. But if you dare and sail through it, then it is bloody PERFECT!

Here's the deal, I do multiple tasks when I write, it kinda makes my mind swirl and work in the process, but tonight when I got tired on working with SCR 6, no distraction was available, I had no movie or TV series on the ready, I have nothing to read, I don't have anyone to chat with, even Twitter is deafeningly quiet and YT vid was loading oh so slowly, so I decided on another means to keep myself afloat. And I swear, I had a grand time, bwahahaha.

Take this as you will but I want everyone to know that I'm just playing around, and it, personally, works as a brain stimulator, you may want to try it sometime.

English Trans courtesy of Perfect, oops, I mean Google Translator.


2006, the vast grounds of Hwangbo occurs a luxurious celebration for the 30th anniversary of one breast by G. and Mrs. Hwangbo. In such a feast first to cross the road by Hye Jung, the only child to marry, and of Hyun Joong, the only heir to the Kim family. Magkababata best friends and their father only natural to be so close to the two families. Neither consistently meet the two lights of home, that does not hinder the durability of their organization, per say a tree, too deeply rooted to their overthrow of the season. But because of their age, differences of interests, including studying abroad, there was no chance their offspring to become friends or even magkapalagayan inside.

Otherwise fantastic, this is the first meeting of the two before they introduced each other - with Hwangbo Hye Jung was 26 years old, a writer, romance novelist, slender, tall on average, with dark and long hair, beautiful eyes, mapupulang lips, sharp nose, a clean heart and good personality, Kim Hyun Joong was 20 years old, currently studying law in a famous university in America, tall, muscular, handsome man, If a modern Adonis ills.

Dream of their parents that they maselyuhan magkatuluyan to the unification of two families, but have they imposed that they wanted their children?

Catch the next chapter ...


Taong 2006, sa malawak na bakuran ng mga Hwangbo ay nagaganap ang isang marangyang pagdiriwang para sa ika-30 anibersaryo ng pag-iisang dibdib nina G. at Gng. Hwangbo. Sa nasabing piging unang nag-krus ang landas nina Hye Jung, ang nag-iisang anak ng mag-asawa, at ni Hyun Joong, ang tanging tagapagmana ng pamilya Kim. Magkababata at matalik na magkaibigan ang kanilang mga ama kaya't natural lamang na maging malapit ang dalawang pamilya. Hindi man palagiang nagkikita ang dalawang ilaw ng tahanan, hindi iyon naging hadlang sa tibay ng kanilang samahan, kumbaga sa puno, masyado nang malalim ang kanilang ugat para maigupo ng panahon. Ngunit dahil sa kanilang edad, pagkakaiba ng hilig, kasama na ang pag-aaral sa ibang bansa, hindi nagkaroon ng pagkakataon ang kanilang mga supling na maging magkaibigan o magkapalagayan man lamang ng loob.

Hindi man kapani-paniwala, ito ang unang pagkikita ng dalawa na naipakilala sila ng harapan sa isa't-isa - si Hwangbo Hye Jung ay 26 na taong gulang, isang manunulat, romance novelist, balingkinitan, matangkad sa karaniwan, may maitim at mahabang buhok, may magagandang mata, mapupulang labi, matangos na ilong, malinis na puso at magandang personalidad; si Kim Hyun Joong ay 20 taong gulang, kasalukuyang nag-aaral ng abogasya sa isang sikat na unibersidad sa Amerika, matangkad, matipuno, magandang lalaki, isang makabagong Adonis kung susumahin.

Pangarap ng kani-kanilang magulang na sila ang magkatuluyan upang maselyuhan na ang pagkakabuklod ng dalawang pamilya, ngunit maipipilit nga ba nila ang kanilang nais sa kanilang mga anak?

Abangan ang susunod na kabanata...


I've had enough, it's hard to write in full Tagalog, I, actually, had a nice plot in mind but putting it into words, Tagalog words at that, is very hard, so I'll stop here, I had fun, that's enough for a day, bwahahaha.

Be cool and keep rockin`!

The Secret Code Ring 6

Finally, SCR 6... to manager-nim and papercrane, thank you for patiently waiting. I decided to cut the dinner part as this chap had gotten longer than it should be.

THREE SIDES OF A LOVE STORY

"Hyung, you take care of the rest, I've got to run." His manager gave him a look, a look that reminded him that his level of understanding is not up to par. "The dinner that I had told you about, it is today and I am late, actually, I am very late and I'm afraid that I might earn the wrath of Hye Jung."

"Oh, the one with Kim Hyun Joong-sshi," he huffed. "Then you better drive fast, drop running, it wouldn't do you any good."

Now, it is Yunho's turn to look at him, at a lost, "Okay hyung, you know that I love you like a brother right, but sometimes, I really wonder how I survive all these years with you as my handler. I guess, the running part is a joke, right? Care to explain the rest?"

The older man chuckled, "Aigoo, don't tell me that you don't know anything, are you that clueless? You are a good kid and I think more than your talent, hardwork and perseverance, it is the reason why you are so blessed, but you are too trusting, you put so much faith on people, and that could cause your downfall," he ended, without stating any reason at all.

"Hyung, can we not go around in circles tonight, as I had said, I am in hurry."

"And I've told you to go and drive back home as fast as you can, what are you still here for?"

He laughed, as in he laughed his arse off, the man in front of him is as big a weirdo as Jaejoong, "And we're back to zero hyung, okay, let's do that again, do you know anything that I don't... let me rephrase that, are you insinuating that I should worry because Hyun Joong-sshi is with Hye Jung?"

"Yes, I am, don't you know that the guy is in love with your girlfriend? He has been for years," he said without blinking.

He was stunned, of course he knows, he knows that Hyun Joong love Hye Jung, he just doesn't know how deep and to what extent. When he agreed to be their decoy two years ago, he already realized that he's not doing it for him, he is doing it for her, only for her. But, it never crossed his mind that other people might know what he knew, that others might realize what he did, that Hyun Joong is that transparent. He doesn't want to add fuel to a full-blown fire, he decided to feign ignorance, "What are you talking about hyung?"

"Aish, you're telling me that you really have no idea? Why do you think, he agreed to your little plan, why do you think it is so easy for him to dodge questions about her, why do you think, he was able to strewn answers about their so-called relationship, why do you think everyone believes that he is the real boyfriend? Because you can read it in his face and in his smile, you can see it in his eyes, you can interpret it in his words and in his actions, he's all that!"

"I'm sorry but I can't quite follow you..."

"LOVE, Kim Hyun Joong overflows with love for your woman and though he tries to hide it, he can't, everytime her name was said, everytime her image was seen, everytime her voice was heard, everytime something related to her appear, you'll be sure to see a positive reaction from the boy. It's more than what my weak heart can handle, I'm telling you."

He bowed his head and say no more. He felt a tinge of jealousy but it is overpowered by indebtedness and new-found respect for the man. 'Did he really fell that deep, then he must be in agony.' He's been there so he knows how it feels, loving someone you can't have, patiently waiting and praying for a chance knowing that it may never come, it was comparable to hell, not that he's been there. In his case, he got lucky, he was given that one chance and he is wise enough to hold on to it, his heaven on earth.

**********

She opened the door to him, relieved that he is finally home, it's fun spending some quality time with her former husband (on TV) but as a host she kinda felt lacking as they asked him to have dinner but it was way past dinnertime and she hadn't fed him a thing. And she doesn't have anyone else to blame than her beau, but she can't very well nag at him, so after giving him a look that promises vengeance in all sorts of way, she let it pass and smile her sweetest. She hooked her arm on his and ushered him in but before they reach the living room, she tiptoed and bit his ear seductively, "You better treat me right these coming days Jung Yunho-sshi or you may suffer a pain you didn't know existed."

He was torn between kneeling and begging her forgiveness and making love to her right there and then, but, as he is not a wimp nor a brute, he stood his guard, nod his head and kissed her soundly, "I am always good to you."

"Are you really?"

He winked mischievously and whispered, "But more than being good, I am great in bed... shall I show you some of my good moves?" and he pretended to drag her away to their room.

"Yah!" she yelled, red all over.

"Ehem, Hye Jung-sshi, is something wrong? Are you okay?" their visitor asked, worry etched in his voice. He was standing a few feet away from them, looking mighty fine in his gray suit.

"Anyi, I... was just startled," she said with a nervous smile, which caused her boyfriend to chuckle. She looked at him threateningly and walked ahead. "You guys do your thing, bond or something, I'll set the table so we can, finally, have dinner."

"Okay! I'll just grab something to drink, my throat is kind of dry," he said casually, but he looks at her with such mischief, teasing her to read between the lines. In return, she walked away after giving him a 'you wanna die?' glare. "You want anything in particular Hyun Joong?"

"I'll take what you'll have."

"Arasso, I'll be back in a jiffy."

He followed her in the kitchen, headed straight to the fridge and grabbed two cans of beer, he was stopped in his tracks when she spoke, "What do you think you're doing? Are you crazy?"

"Wae? Can't we drink beer?"

An eyebrow shot up high in her forehead, "You know what I mean."

He laughed, dropped the beer on the nearby table, walked towards her and pinned her on the wall, "You started it, why play with my weak spot, you know how sensitive my ear is."

"I bit you!"

"You did? Hmm, all I remember is that you tickled me and made me arouse," he said raunchily. He swooped in and kissed her passionately, a kiss that tells of things that he wanted to say. A kiss that lasted until they run out of breath, a kiss that made her knees weak and his resolve stronger. "I love you!"

He grabbed their drinks and went back to the living room, leaving her behind, breathless and a little shaken. "He seems a bit different, a little forceful, is it his way of showing off, of marking his territory," she wondered.

**********

Kim Hyun Joong stayed in his seat, not sure what to do, not sure what to expect, he had felt the tension that Yunho seemed to have brought home with him. And though he hates to admit it, he felt like the third-wheel that he is.

"Is beer okay?"

"Oh, of course."

"I'm sorry for taking much of your time, there was some technical glitch in the studio, so recording took more time than necessary and I can't just leave, you know the drill," Yunho explained.

"No problem, I had a great time talking with Hye Jung, I didn't even realized that hours had already passed," he said, too caught up in what had transpired between him and her that he didn't seem to notice that he had sans formalities and said her name affectionately.

But the other guy did, he, actually, picked up more than that one slip of the tongue, he also saw the glint in Hyun Joong's eyes, the secret smile everytime he glances at the kitchen's way or thought of something, and the sudden glow in his being, something that wasn't there a week ago when he invited him over, it's like a fire in him was rekindled and he's living anew.

Those thoughts made Yunho realized that ending their deal and coming forward is really the best choice for all of them. For him and Hye Jung, confirming their relationship will allow them freedom, freedom to do what they want, freedom to show their love, freedom to live as a couple without the restrictions of secrecy. For Kim Hyun Joong, it is a means to get out of the WGM-Ssangchu era, to be free of her shadow, to be able to let go, to be able to dream and start his own fairytale story, his own happy ever after, his own heaven on earth.

Yeah, it is for the best and for all their sakes, they have to do it now.

"So quiet, you're both hungry, aren't you? Pout no more, the table's ready, come and take your seats."

In A Second

To the efef hunters, you know who you are, this is for you from the bottom of my fat-saturated heart, nyahahaha!

EDIT: Bubuyog, busy momma ang papel ko eh, I only get to write on weekends so pansamantala eto muna, sure naman ako di mo pa ito nababasa, hahaha... i'll super try to write you one this weekend, oki :)


People often complain that it took them a lifetime to fall in love, but the truth is, one only need a second to do so. A second to feel that hitch in your once normal heartbeat, a second to feel that jolt of electricity at the tip of your fingertips, a second to feel that itch at the sole of your feet. What takes a lifetime is the road to realization, it is the journey that takes us a long time. And inopportune to some, by the moment that they realized what it is, it has already passed them by.

The lucky ones, always catch on at the right moment, but then, isn't the long wait an unnecessary waste of time?

I'm not a connoisseur at love, I won't even pass as a call handler on those love hotlines, but I, Kim Hyun Joong, have a story to tell, not to brag or anything *cheeky smile*.

Hwangbo Hye Jung and I work in the same industry, we are both singers and entertainers; we were once a part of an idol group, I still am but SS501 is in hiatus at the meantime, we're both leaders of our group, and get this she and I were both designated as rappers in our group. With all those similarities, you'd think we're twins separated at birth, but we're not, thankfully.

We are colleagues but we never were a part of the same circle, there were a few instances when our world collided - a few TV guestings together, performing on music shows, a hosting stint with her as the guest, a bit of modelling here and there and run-ins around the TV and radio stations and recording studios - but those were scarce and fleeting.

And then it happened.

My management company coerced me into filming a variety show about celebrity married couples, no, let me rephrase that, a variety show that force celebrities to act like married couples. I was hesitant at first, very hesitant, imagine me doing something like that when my normal reaction to everything ranges from subtle to extreme indifference, I was readily able to picture the awkwardness that will ensued. But what could I do, I am an entertainer after all.

First shooting day, in Jeju Island, I wasn't particular on who my make-believe wife will be but I thought as I am an idol I'll have one from those girl groups, a doll-like female, the kind of girl who can't do anything but be cute even if her life depended on it. I had my mind set that I'll be the older one and I can just pull her strings, but, I was given a better deal, my being a filial child must have touched the Higher Beings so they decided on blessing me... with her.

But it wasn't an easy start, as I presumed, our first day together was enveloped with awkwardness, aah, the inconvenience I put everyone through. She is an easy-to-get-along type of person, she welcomes everyone with open arms, she's warm and cool at the same time, she's a portrait of a girl-next-door come to life, albeit a little older (yah, don't you dare let that slip, have I mentioned she's a black belt 3 in Taekwando), while I, was never a talkative person, I often zone out during conversations, I tend to cower against authorities and new acquaintances, simply put I am a loner at heart, so imagine the hardships that I had to go through every taping, and her being overly awesome and beautiful didn't help a bit, I was always lost for words, stealing glances and secret stares directed at her was so pleasurable, the urge to talk almost always slipped my mind.

But it got better... and better... and better.

I don't know when that infinite second in my life happened, I don't know when was the exact moment when I felt that hitch in my heart, that jolt of electricity on my fingertips or that itch in my sole, I just realized one day that my life will never be the same without her, that if she decided to turn around and walk away, the gap, the hole that she will leave will just forever be an empty space because no one can replace her.

It was during our 100th day anniversary, it was an episode where we spent more than twenty-four hours doing our wedding photoshoot. She was, and still is, the most beautiful woman I have ever seen in a wedding dress, I almost choke on my delight when she presented herself. The entire time that we were filming, she was always clad in those fashionable outfits, she was always prepped up, she was always gorgeous. But seeing her in a white gown, seeing her in a wedding dress was entirely different, I felt a certain self-exaltation that she's going to do the photo shoot with me, that she's married to me... of all the men in the world who could possibly stand beside her, it was me!

We went through all the hullabaloo and brouhaha of a wedding photoshoot, the torture and sweat, the happiness and laughter, everything, yes, even the feeling of being giddy, of excitement, of pride, it was like... for real.

Halfway through it all, it hit me, hard, seriously the vision almost knocked me off of my feet. The thought that she will do everything we had done, again, with another man, and for real, scared the hell out of me. The thought of her in another man's arms wrecked havoc in my mind and punctured my heart; the thought that she will one day turn her back on me sent chills to my spine, it was like the worst horror movie come to life, and I was the victim, I'll be the victim. It was really, really terrifying.

So right then and there, I made up my mind, I never once dreamed of starring in a horror flick, much more as a pushover, so I did, what has to be done... I made her mine, all mine.

So you see, falling in love doesn't take a lot of time, it took me 100 days to realized it but I am sure that I had fallen for her days before. It could had been that moment in the red convertible when she laughed like a madwoman on something that I had said, which I didn't find half as funny as she did; it could had been that night of our first barbecue, when she opened that soda bottle with a spoon, oh how cool she looked; it could had been that time when she ran on the beach and the skirt of her white dress hiked up a little, sexy; it could had been that time when she made me that pizza toast without the corn and yellow pepper, a wife material; it could had been that night when I carried her around the bathtub to our friends glee, and mine *blushing*; it could had been that day in the pool while we play, drink beer, talked and whiled away, like we're friends for so long; it could had been that time when I saw her garbed in a white sleeveless tee and pants, oh how lovely she looked; it could had been that time when she got sick knitting me a muffler, the guilt of not doing anything in return; it could have been that time when she went all the way to Japan just to spend time with me, what a keeper; or it could had been all of those pieced together. Truth, it doesn't really matter, what's more important is what lies ahead, what's important is that we fell in love and we are together.

Aren't I the luckiest guy in this world?

I was never close to my parents thus conversations among us revolves around the serious and the more serious matters. Because of that, my brain seems to have develop this inclination to seep through what we (brain and I) think is important and worthy of storing. One of the few that has a great impact on me, is the one about what's rightfully ours. Did you ever wished and prayed for something, so darn hard, but it still didn't come into fruition? And then there are some or, at least, one thing that became yours without even lifting a finger? My omma said, that stuff happen for a reason, that someone up there has this grand plan that we play a part of... that the thing, or in my case the person, I never ever thought of having and building a life with, just came and reshape what I had and what I am. It is her, and the likes of her, those we didn't dare to dream of, to wish and pray for but was given to us without preamble, that, those, are rightfully ours.

Good thing I listen to my omma, or I might have missed my chance...

Chances

This is for the bubuyog, the little sister that I never had. I found this - "Letting go doesn’t mean giving up, but rather accepting that there are things that cannot be." - anon


"Hwangbuin, whenever things are hard, remember the hard times on Mt. Halla, after the hard times, there will be laughter, too. I hope you'll always remember that, be happy!"

"Shillang, thank you and sorry..."

Their last words to and for each other, they hugged awkwardly and went their own ways. That was the last time that they had been honest with each other, she was a coward, she can't speak about his reasons but hers was of pure cowardice, but now, now she have to face up, "This time, I really have to let you go, you have given me no choice," she sighed. "Annyeoung, Kim Hyun Joong-sshi, till we meet again."

She came, decided that she will send him away with a smile so that he wouldn't be burdened by her heavy heart but she can't help it, her tears won't stop.

**********

They did their part as a married couple in a reality show, the last filming was done, their work was finished and their relationship, in whatever name or intensity it should be labeled, reached its end. They both knew that something is up, that they are somewhat different from who they were when the program started, from the amateurish pair who barely looks and talk with each other in Jeju Island for their so-called honeymoon, to the almost Bonnie and Clyde-inseparable duo that they had become at the mid of their stay in the reality show, to the heartbroken but pretending not to be husband and wife when they finally said their goodbyes.

They both knew that they had something going on, something powerful and completely undeniable but both decided not to deal, both decided to go their separate ways fuzzy and unclear.

She had her reasons, petty ones but still valid enough, she's six years older, he's an idol and he has the whole world waiting in front of him, she cannot and will not take that opportunity away. She has always been selfless, it, oftentimes, sucks and it, sometimes, hurts but she is made that way.

He loves her, there was no question about it, not even a hint of indecisiveness, but he can't, he can't just go and propose his everlasting love without the promise of a future, he needed a little time to be worthy of her.

**********

Several months after they parted ways as a not-so-genuine couple and after a few random and accidental meet-ups along the way, they were given the chance to see each other again, it was right after he finished filming Boys Over Flowers. He was supposed to go home right after his last scene but he heard her name on his way to the filming location, he and his manager were picking up some fan letters at the front desk when her manager called in her reservation. He can't just leave, he should at least treat her to dinner or say hello, he can't let the opportunity to be with her on their special place pass him by however short it'll be.

She was gracious enough to dine with him, he tried to have a barbecue dinner set up in the hotel's side lawn but as the staff needed more time to prepare and time was one thing they obviously don't have, they had to settle in the hotel's restaurant. It was nice, the food was just so-so but to the both of them, it was like ambrosia to the gods and goddesses, it's like the happiness of being in each others company made everything around them a hundredfold better. They talked like the awkward team that they used to be but as minutes turned to hours, time was reverted back, they were the ssangchu couple once again, laughing, throwing in jokes, talking about the mundane, flowing with love for each other.

She was elated, after months of living like they were just simple K-entertainment colleagues with all the bump-ins and casual hellos, there they were acting like nothing had change. And there she was hoping, deep in heart, that something will change.

He was beyond happy to see her, he was ecstatic in the truest sense of the word, eating with her by his side, having conversations, subtly trying to compel her to stay away from the pile of suitors he knew she have, basking in the glory that she still looks at him with those warm eyes, only people who matter in her life can elicit that warmth and he can still do, so he still matters.

The time had come and they bid their goodbyes, still unclear on what they really are, are they friends, simple acquaintance, two person who happened to do work together, or are they way more than that. She didn't dare to ask, she doesn't even know what answer she wants to hear because she, by herself, doesn't know what kind of relationship they should have. He, on the other had, knew what he wants, he had known ever since they had their wedding photoshoot but he's not ready yet, his future was still bleak and he needs a concrete one to offer her.

*********

Hearing each others whereabouts through their common friends, exchanging a few messages of regards and how are yous, having a glimpse of each other on their respective TV shows and guestings, that's how they both live for almost a year. The only thing he was able to do when she released her digital album and topped one of UK's online music site was to sent her a bouquet of flowers to congratulate her, and even that was done by his coordinator after he begged her to. They were both so busy, keeping in contact was next to impossible, he can't hardly breathe and he's sure that she was on the same boat as evident by her thinning body. But his faith in Santa Claus paid off, his Christmas wish was granted when they chanced upon each other in Hong Kong.

She was roaming the streets of Hong Kong when he spotted her, cozily bundled up in her layers of thick clothes without a hint of make-up at all, she didn't look like the celebrity that she is, no chaperon, no bodyguards, she was walking alone and nonchalantly, looking at random people and stuff, as if she was just a normal city girl out on a night to shop and unwind. He approached her, hidden on his black hood and cap, and he was almost incapacitated, good thing he found his voice and was able to call her buin, it was the magic word.

He waved his original company away and hanged-out with her instead, they meandered around Hong Kong concerned not about scandals or rumors or the side looks and secret stares some people were throwing their way; they were engrossed at and with each other, trying to make up for the loss time, trying to live by the moment.

Both knew what was needed to be done but neither of the two made the move. She already know what she wanted but she's just too chicken to step forward, while he, who's been so sure since the beginning, was aiming for the sky and he won't settle for anything less. What they didn't know is that, they were already given three chances to make it real, to live their love, to fulfill their dreams. Will it take a hundred before they can take the plunge?

**********

SS501's Asian concert tour was finally over and their next mini-album is soon to come out, it was five months of hectic schedules, flying back and forth, running around, practicing until dawn, sleepless nights and days of unrest, though he can't deny the adrenalin that he feels while performing, the thought that he and the rest of the group can now breath and live at a normal pace makes him more than just thankful. And now that he has some time to himself, the possibility of seeing her is not that bleak anymore.

They have a scheduled fan signing event in Busan and he decided to go there earlier as not much activities for the group is planned yet and a day or two to himself is definitely what he needs, to clear his mind and pacify his heart. He has been trying to contact her, to have tea or coffee, to eat out, to hang out, anything, he's even willing to look at her from afar if that's the only way he can see her, but to no avail. One of their road managers accompany him and they are shock to find a number of fans near the villa where they will be staying, but to his relief, those fan girls aren't his, they are waiting for Junjin of Shinhwa.

He is about to drift off to dreamland when his manager barge in inside his room, he overhears a few of the villa caretakers talking about Junjin, taking a couple days off from the military to spend some quality time with his best-girl-friend. He was instantly on his feet, everyone knows who that girl is and though he's a little bit jealous and irritated that they are on a retreat and staying at the same house, he's very thankful that their fates look forever cross. A chance to see her, to talk to her, to be with her, in a place where no one will bother them, now all he has to do is to make it happen.

And make it happen he did, the best friends are having their morning walk when he pretended to run into them, the older idol is courteous enough to give them some privacy. She was a bit flustered to find him there but his happiness in seeing her worked as a balm to calm her. They walk at a slow pace, savoring every bit of time that they are together, they both know that sooner than later they will part ways without knowing when or where they will see other again. They talk about everything except for the one thing that both of them wanted, she's still a fraidy-cat, scared of any consequences her words might cause, and he's still trying to conquer the world so he can give it to her, not that the world matter to her and the consequences matter to him. If they only knew...

**********

Another six months had passed, his newest drama bombed on the ratings department in Korea but it had gotten explosive reviews from the international audience, so it was a fair deal. He was even interviewed by CNN because of the tremendous success of their venture in You Tube, he was chosen as the Korean representative to the Asian Games and that was, actually, the bestest offer he had ever gotten because he was able to go to Beijing without much of a fuzz and trailed secretly to Macau where she was having a photoshoot with Star Hwabo. He'll be a liar if he will say that he wasn't affected by the theme of the pictorial, she was like showing everything she got and just thinking of all the other men who will drool on the photos aside from the photographer and magazine staff whose eyes seemed to be popping out just makes his blood boil. But what can he do, she's not his yet to control nor it is her fault that she looks like a goddess, if Hera was of this time, he bet she'll throw a jealous fit, that's how exquisite she is.

She was able to sneaked out wit him, they had dinner together, after the longest time. They chose that famous Italian restaurant in Venetian Hotel, unknown to most, they both share a love for pasta, that's one thing he'll forever share with her. They dine like a normal couple would, they drank wine, they toast for their health and prosperity, they talked about their lives and careers and the path both of them wish to take, they actually look like a real couple, it's just that deep inside they both knew that they are not.

What are they exactly, friends, but friends keep in contact with each other unlike them who popped in and out of each others life like magic; acquaintance, colleagues, but either of the two won't drop everything their doing just to spend a few hours with each other; they are in a relationship limbo, they had been there for more than two years now, when will they cross the line to have a luminous definition of what they are, only the two of them knows.

And so, for the fifth time, they missed their chance and went their separate ways.

**********

Finally, after half a year of hardwork and perseverance, his first solo album is done. He plans to release it on his birth month, as a sort of gift to himself and to his fans. Working on his solo album was like finding and picking needles on a hay stack, that's how arduous and laborious it was. He wasn't able to do much in between as he wanted to focus and give his all on that one, it's his first and he aimed for the best, now he just hope to get the recognition his album deserves.

More than the fame and the status quo of being a successful singer, he wanted his album to succeed because after that, he is done. His dream of a great future is already at hand, the album will just seal it and then he can pursue his greatest dream, he can now confess to the woman he loves and he can now offer the world to her feet. A few more steps is all that he needs, and the waiting will then be over and the two of them can have their happy ever after.

A music video has to be release side by side his first single, so he is now flying aboard a chartered plane to shoot his MV in one of the remote islands of Hawaii. Everyone is excited, it is a gorgeous place and the view is beyond awesome, they all wanted to land and get the job done and be free to do their individual thing, the men, as usual, wants to eye some local girls and the women, wants to get, at least, a tan, he, he just wants everything to go perfect, so he can pursue his own happiness.

But then fate has other plans, it looks like Kim Hyun Joong has run out of chances.

The loud chit-chats were put to a halt when a fire broke out in one of the plane's wing, one of the engine malfunctioned and though the pilot did everything he can to regain control, it just didn't sufficed. "This is your pilot speaking, we're now flying with just one engine and though we are doing everything we can to land safely, you all have to brace yourselves. May God be with us."

A few minutes after, sounds of screeching metal and yells of pain and fear were all that can be heard. One man was stoic, trapped in his seat, blood gushing on his head, but though he is in immense pain, he couldn't care less as all he can think about was her, "Is this the end, is this how it will end? I haven't even told her that I love her, that I have been in love with her for the longest time and that everything that I am doing is for her and for the future that I want us to have. Now I won't have the chance..."

**********

Hwangbo Hye Jung went to the funeral dressed in black, showing no emotions, hiding her eyes behind her dark glasses, her trusted friends beside her, secretly bracing her as the truth was, she was dying in pain, but what's more painful was the fact that she can't show what she feels as she doesn't have the right to, she freaking have no right to feel that way, for in the eyes of most they never had a bond... of whatever kind.

She paid her respects to his family and she almost breakdown when his mom crashed her in a tight embrace telling her that she is so happy to finally meet her in person, the woman who made his son a man, a man who felt love, a man who dreamt well, a man that she is proud of. She couldn't control it, a tear fell and another and another, and she hugged the woman who gave birth to him, and they both weep, they mourn the man who they both love and loss.

She came, decided that she will send him away with a smile so that he wouldn't be burdened by her heavy heart but she can't help it, her tears won't stop flowing, her heart won't stop aching. But as she is the one who was left behind, she had to be stronger, "This time, I really have to let you go, you have given me no choice," she sighed. "Annyeoung, Kim Hyun Joong-sshi, till we meet again."

And she cried, she cried her heart out with a promise that it will be the last.

**********

Epilogue

His album was released a month after he was laid to rest, it was an instant hit, breaking all music and chart records, hitting the platinum mark in just two weeks, it was everything Kim Hyun Joong dreamed of, it was a success.

The master copy of the album together with the original CD jacket was sent to her, it was his plan when he's still alive and his friends made sure that it was done.

The dedication on his album read -

Dearest Hwangbo Hye Jung,

I have never met a woman quite like you, when I look at you, I see an angel, when I touch your skin, I feel this warmth that no one else have, when I had the privilege to kiss you, I felt my heart beating like it had never done before, when I look in your eyes, I see a future only you can give me. I love you!

A tear fell, she wiped it dry, she smiled against the pain, "And I love you, Shillang, I always will."

True love doesn't have a happy ending, because true love never ends. Letting go is one way of saying I love you. - Author Unknown

***** THE END *****

Note: This piece wasn't done in one sitting, you may have noticed some differences in the way it was written, it convey different feelings, the use of the past and present and even the grammar varies; I'm having a schizophrenia episode thus this piece came out like so and I'm not in the mood to edit. It was just a case of wrong timing, the plot of Chances played in my head just when I'm having my random crazy attack. Just deal okay, let's just deal with what life is shoving at us. Oh yeah, if you're feeling weird about this note, my apologies.

After The End

I am hooked! This song is stronger than cocaine, I'm addicted to it and I just started this morning *grins*. I spent most of my afternoon looking for the title (Ate Sue gave it to me but I forgot and the chatbox was no help, eff that!), the singer (I, initially, thought that it was part of the High School Musical OST, crazy me *grins*) and the lyrics, and an hour or two ago, I finally succeeded. Come on people, I deserve an applause, with the effort that I had exerted and the patience that I didn't knew I had *lol*.

Am I getting random? Hmm...

After The End
KC Concepcion

Even though I try
Not to think of you
Every now and then
I admit, I do
And I know
That were gonna meet again
And I wonder how
You will treat me then

And will it be awkward
Or what will I say
Coz we haven't spoken
Since that day

Will you look the same
Will I recognize
That amazing glint
That was in you eyes
Will you show that I'm upset
Will say that I'm not over yet
Will you make some lame excuse to go
Will you say you've got to run to catch a bus
When we'll see each other
After the end of us

Will I want to cry when we finally meet
Will we meet by chance on a crowded street
Will I fall again for your magic charm
Will you have a new girl on your arms

Will you act like you don't know who I am
Will you shake my hand like a businessman
Will you smile and say hello
Like we used to smile not long ago
Will you ask me what's been going on
What kind of shallow topics will we discuss
When we'll see each other
After the end of us

Or will I be stronger
Then I knew I could be
Will you be the one
Who's surprised by me

Will I be alright
Will I be just fine
Or will I've healed this heart of mine
Will I show that I moved on
Will you see the sadness is all gone
Will you be the one in pain
Will I be the one who's feeling fabulous
When we'll see each other
After the end
When we'll see each other
After the end of us

He Said, She Said

In an effort to make up for the tragedy of a fan fiction that is Romeo and Juliet, hahaha. And yeah, a post-birthday gift for Athena, hope she likes it.


I italicized her side to make reading easier :)


Kim Hyun Joong and Hwangbo Hye Jung have finally decided to get hitch after four years of being together, and playing hide and seek with the netizens and their avid fans. They plan to announce their upcoming wedding through a mini-press conference when all the details are confirmed and finalized.

Today, they are to meet a marriage counselor as a part of the wedding seminar that couples have to go through before a permit to wed can be granted.

The counselor had gotten one question out and the lovebirds did the rest, all that he can do is watch in amazement.


He: I want her the minute I laid my eyes on her.

She: No, you didn't. You wanted a cute girl as a partner, remember?

He: Oh Buin, don't mislead him, I'm not talking about We Got Married because we already met a few years prior to that and I decided right there and then that I want you to be mine. And just to clear the air, I never mentioned the word want, what I said was I expected to be paired up with a cute girl, I am an idol after all.

She: *A light chuckle and a smirk later* Your word against mine and as usual, you're trying to get out of a loophole.

He: I certainly am not, and how can you bring that up when I have proven time and again that I love you, more than life itself.

She: I know that you love me and I love you, too, but we're not talking about that are we? You said you want me from the start and I just gave you a piece of my mind.

He: But I really do. SS501 just came out at that time, it was year 2005, and as part of our promotion, DSP forced us to go on variety shows. Remember Xman, the dance intro, the song Do Somethin' by Britney Spears, the short pink skirt, the white midriff-tube top and the white blazer?

She: Oh *a pause*, now I remember, you were brave enough to use the 'I got darker' gag on me *a smirk and a look that dares him to say more*.

He: *smiling sheepishly* What can I do, that was what the sunbaes told me to say, and I'm supposed to obey them.

She: *grinning from ear to ear* And you didn't even depend yourself, you know that you just admitted to your crime, right?

He: *sticky glare* Crime? Have I abducted you? If I am to point a finger, I say Lee Hyuk Jae-nim or Ji Sang Ryul-nim were the most likely candidates to do so.

She: *laughing out loud* That statement of yours just earn a spot on my list of Kim Hyun Joong's weirdest comments.

He: *grinning at her candid reaction and then back to his straight face* I can actually add in more names, some are even younger than me, but mentioning their names will just make you remember them and I don't like that idea, so I shall refrain *smirk*.

She: *still laughing plus hitting him on the shoulder at least twice* Now, I am at a loss, I could never win over you, I could never predict what you will say next. And trust me, I've been trying, for four years *she smiled that sunshine smile of hers*.

He: *he smile that melt-every-women's heart-smile* That's why you can't resist me, I'm still mysterious after all these years.

She: *giggling* Right, just thinking of a life without you makes it less appealing, I think, it'll be no fun without you.

He: Tsk, I kind of realized that a couple of years ago, that's why I took it to myself to stay by your side to let you experience the happiness that you want and deserve *huffing like a proud wolf*. *turns all serious and lovingly gazes at her* But you know what, my existence might just be pure pleasure on your part but yours in mine is a necessity because you complete me, without you, I'll be forever at a loss, without you, it's like not living at all. So, don't you ever loose me... or you'll be charge with murder *grins*.

She: *her eyes full of warmth and love* I will never... and thank you, thank you for keeping me.


The counselor signs the documents with a big smile plastered on his face, this is the easiest counseling he has ever done by far. One question was all it took and the discussion that followed just blew him away.

"Here," he uttered while giving them their marriage license.

Stunned, they look at each other and at the counselor questioningly. Is it done? The man in front of them wasn't even able to say at least a few phrases, how come he's handing them the documents, do they pass or do they fail, both think that the latter is a greater possibility.

"Live with as much passion, ardor and brevity just like how you fight and I am sure everything will be alright. Live just like you are living now and I am sure I won't be seeing you two here ever again, oh, unless, one of your kids has to go through a counseling of their own. I hope, I am still working on this office when that day comes. Let me be the first to congratulate you, Mr. and Mrs. Kim, work hard, love harder and you'll find your own heaven on this Earth."

Kim Hyun Joong and Hwangbo Hye Jung stands up, give their thanks and bow down their heads, they walk out hand in hand, still as passionately in love as they were when they walked in, but a little bit wiser now and more than ready to face the world.


Wanna join me in shouting Segyero or do you wanna have a wild fancy party with me, keke?

Romeo and Juliet

Paningit lang, before I continue with SCR, the idea popped up in my head and I don't think my braincells will settle down until I put it into writing, so here goes. It is an experimental work on my part, so please bear with it, if you don't like it, then you don't, if you find it acceptable, then you do, if you like what you read, then leave a comment will you *grins*.


"Omma, I just finished my assignment in English Lit, do you like to read it?"

"I would love to baby," she said with a beaming smile.

Time really flies, she can't help but be stunned at how fast her first child had grown, she now has a 10-year old daughter, who looks exactly like her, which is one of the topmost complaint of her husband, ever since their daughter shown signs of her blossoming beauty, her father has been at his wits end thinking of ways to hide her from the world. But her daughter is more than a just a pretty face, she has the charm, the heart and the brains to append it with. A proof of the latter is her being in advance study since second grade, she's now a 5th grader taking early lessons on English Literature. She scan the printed materials on her hand, and with much pride and enthusiasm, she reads on.

**********

Title
Romeo and Juliet (A Comparative Writing)

Most, if not all, are familiar with the love story of the star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, it is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare in between 1591 and 1595.

Many a review had been done about this story, many plays and movies had been produced, many versions had been made, many books had been published and many copycats had surfaced so I decided to do it my way, it is a wee bit different than your usual comparative report but, I bet, it will be better.

Setting
Verona

Characters
Ruling House of Verona

Prince Escalus - the ruling prince
Count Paris - kinsman of the prince who wishes to marry Juliet
Mercutio - another kinsman and a close friend of Romeo

House of Capulet
Capulet - patriarch of the house
Lady Capulet - matriarch of the house
Juliet - daughter of the Capulet and the female lead
Tybalt - cousin of Juliet and nephew of Lady Capulet
Nurse/Nana - Juliet's personal attendant and confidante
Peter, Sampson and Gregory - servants in the Capulet household

House of the Montague
Montague - patriarch of the house
Lady Montague - matriarch of the house
Romeo - son of the Montague and the male lead
Benvolio - cousin of Romeo and his friend
Abram and Balthasar - servants of the Montague household

Franciscan Friars
Friar Laurence - Romeo's confidante
Friar John - the one who was sent to deliver Friar Laurence's letter

Plot

The Capulet and Montague are, both, rich and powerful, but more than the distinction, they are more known as nemesis, rivals, sworn enemies. Their families battle it out and Verona is their battleground, the members of each family brawl on the street, wrecking havoc and sowing fear among the citizens. Prince Escalus was forced to interfere and declared that further breach of peace in Verona will be punishable by death, thus a sort of ceasefire took effect.

One of the prince's kinsman, Count Paris, let his desire to marry Juliet be known to her family, her parents are in favor of the union but her father is a little wary as Juliet is just a child at thirteen, so he asked the count to wait for two more years before they wed. The Capulet held a ball in honor of Count Paris and their arrangement.

At the beginning Romeo was really pining for Rosaline, a cousin of Juliet, and in an effort to see her, he lets himself be persuaded by Mercutio and Benvolio to attend the ball that the Capulet were having. But as fate would have it, instead of Rosaline, he met Juliet and fell in love with her at first sight.

Juliet, on the other hand, was mesmerized. A day after the ball, Romeo sneaked into the Capulet's courtyard in order to take a glimpse at her but he got more than what he bargained for, as he witnessed Juliet vowing her love for him though he is a Montague. Overwhelmed, he showed himself and propose his love, then and there, they decided to get married, with Nana as their witness.

Friar Laurence married them the next day hoping that the union will lead to a reconciliation between their families.

But Tybalt, had another plan, he was enraged that Romeo sneaked in the Capulet's party and challenged him to a duel but as Romeo already sees him as a kinsman, he declined. Mercutio, who felt insulted by Tybalt's insolence and angered by Romeo's submission, accepted the duel on his friend's behalf. Mercutio was fatally wounded as Romeo attempts to break up the fight. Grief-stricken and wracked with guilt, Romeo confronted and slain Tybalt in the process.

The prince exiled Romeo with a note that he will be killed the moment he steps foot at Verona again, that was his punishment as his parents argued that the death of Tybalt was just as he only avenged Mercutio's death.

Romeo spent his last night at Verona with Juliet, they both knew that it was to be the last but she was still devastated when he finally left. Her family misinterpreted her grieving and decided to marry her off to Count Paris. She resisted and was threatened to be disown by her father, her plea for a delay was also rejected by her mother.

In an attempt to get her out of the dilemma, Friar Laurence offered her a drug that will keep her in a death-like coma for forty-two hours, he also promised to send a messenger to Romeo to inform him of the plan so that he can be there when she awakens.

Juliet drink the potion a night before her wedding and was discovered looking lifeless in her room the morning after, her mourning and distress parents laid her to rest in the family crypt.

It was such a good plan, until Balthasar went babbling about Juliet's circumstance to Romeo, and he, as the lovesick fool that he is, ran to Verona, making it impossible for Friar John to give him the message that Friar Laurence sent. In other words, the once ingenious plan failed *grins*.

The heartbroken Romeo, though in haste to be with his lover, was able to buy a poison before he went to see her in the crypt. He met Count Paris, who came to mourn Juliet privately, the count confronts him and Romeo kills Paris in the battle that ensued. Believing that Juliet had passed away, he drunk the poison and was breathing his last when Juliet suddenly woke up, aggrieved, she took her own life using his dagger.

The three were found dead in the tomb and seeing the misfortune that their children had suffered all because of their feud, the Capulet and the Montague decided to make peace and reconcile. Friar Laurence act as the narrator of the story/play and it ends with Prince Escalus' elegy, "For never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo."

Now for the real story, imagine Romeo and Juliet in a South Korean setting instead of the 16th century England, speaking not of those olden English language but of contemporary Korean, and living in a modern world instead from the antiquated one. I shall change the title then, from Romeo and Juliet to Estella and Rafael. And to make this story a little more amusing, let me tell you, that our lead protagonists are both Korean stars, both hailed from an idol group, the female went solo as a singer, took up hosting and modeling, do some bits of sitcoms and movies and became a favorite in variety shows; the male diversified to acting and modeling while still being a singer. They both have a good heart and do much charity works, and instead of being star-crossed lovers, shall we tag them as a match made in heaven?

Now on to the characters, let's forego the ruling house as this story happened in a different era, but we have to retain Count Paris and Mercutio as they play important roles, I will name the Korean counterpart of Paris as Yunho and of Mercutio as Jaejoong. The House of Capulet and Montague are no more, it's basically Estella and Rafael with their hordes of fans, with the leads as secret lovers while their fans are mutual enemies. As for Friar Laurence, who acts as a friend, confidante and a bridge to each sides reconciliation, I think, the Joongboers fit in, but as they are plural in numbers, let's just say that they are all Franciscan friars who thinks and feels like the real one. And instead of Friar Laurence, I will act as the narrator and in behalf of Price Escalus, I'll give the ending statement.

I know that most of the characters of the original play are not visible in my story but as I've said earlier, this is a love story that took place centuries after Shakespeare's famous tragedy, so some of the characters are not in existence anymore. And now, I shall begin.

The feud between Estella and Rafael's followers happened in reverse chronology, they met and fell in love first before the war ensued. The two met not in a party but on a reality show, We Got Married, Rafael just like Romeo expected to meet somebody else, a cutesy-patootsy girl for the first and Rosaline for the latter, but as luck was bestowed on them, they met someone else and they both fell in love at first sight.

But unlike Romeo, Rafael had to prove to Estella that he's worthy of her heart and, ultimately, her life and soul. You see, as they met in a reality show, emotions alone can't be trusted because sometimes the bleak line that separates real from reel overlaps, and Estella was intelligent enough to not let herself drown. But love, just like death, cannot be avoided, the variety program ended but their feelings continued to grow, he wooed her until the walls that she built crumbled, until she accepted him as her man.

But as their stint as a married couple ended, their individual fans who once supported their tandem drifted away until they completely falter. And the endless shipping with other artists, bickering, bad-mouthing, a whole lot of word war begun. But, just like Romeo and Juliet, Estella and Rafael had their own Friar Laurence, they are an elite group of people who believe that great love stories doesn't have endings and that what they saw as a blossoming love in WGM is the real deal. They stay vigilant and dedicated and their support and love never waver amidst the denial, the rumors and the fan warfare.

Fortunately, this love story didn't end in tragedy, after all the commotions and the secret, the couple finally announced their relationship, a month before they tie the knot. They got married, this time for real, and together with the ever-loyal Joongboers, the Perfect, Hyunnies, BeauEstella, Hye Jung's Angels and those other fans in between stood together to celebrate with them. At the moment, they are living happily and contentedly with their three children - Helice, Hermes and Hypnos.

"A great love story doesn't end with dying together, that is what you call a tragedy. A great love story is when two person became one soul and grew old together with no regrets, no enviousness, no greed, just pure love." - Helice Kim

**********

She was lost reading her daughter's masterpiece when a small voice jolted her, "Omma," a three-year old boy whispers in her ear, as he try to get her attention. "When is appa coming home?

"He'll be home soon, why, do you need something from your appa?"

"Ani, I just miss him..."

"And I miss you, too!" the doting father said with arms open wide, waiting for his little prince to run to his embrace.

"Appa," one loving word of three different voices, from three different individuals.

He reaches out to each of them, hugging them tight, kissing them soundly, and talking like they haven't meet for a long while, when in fact, he just went out a few hours ago for a recording. But, he wouldn't have it any other way.

When the commotion died down, he pull his wife to his side, give her a light peck on the lips and whispered, "Thank you for letting me live a wonderful, wonderful life with you and our kids. Saranghae Hwangbo Hye Jung!"

"And I love you Kim Hyun Joong!"


NOTE: I just read what I wrote and I find my version of Romeo and Juliet funny, instead of being sweet and romantic, it came out angsty, hahaha, I'm really not made of those gooey, mushy stuff and it shows in my writings.

Announcement

Regular programming is temporarily on hold to give way to Ms. Hwangbo Hye Jung's comeback, her digital single, Still Beautiful, is now released and can be downloaded in various digital music stores online. You know the drill, let's support our girl, okay!

Oh yeah, you can visit Hwangbo and Joongbo thread in Soompi for more details and info on how to support her, her music (single) and her music video. Aja, aja, fighting!

The Secret Code Ring 5

A LOVE THAT IS FOREVER LOST


It was a lovely Sunday night and she's more than happy to tire herself out in order to prepare the favorite dishes of her two stars, one she's keeping near and the other she's completely letting go.

She and Yunho attended church in the morning, they had brunch with a few friends before he went off to attend to his schedules with a promise that he'll be back before the appointed time so he can help her a little in the preparations. Tonight, the three of them will sit together and share a nice dinner, talk about the weather and life in general, and she's hoping that in the end, she, Yunho and Hyun Joong will all part ways as good friends. Oh, just to make it clear, the parting-ways-phrase is not applicable to her and her man as she plans to have her forever with him.

She spent the afternoon creating a small feast, at least the best that she can come up with, as well as fixing her hub to make it as comfortable as possible to her guests. She and Yunho are as good as living together but as someone else was coming, she wants to make him at home and at ease with their company. She cleared and kept all things couple-y that is usually found in the living room so as not to make him feel like he is a third wheel or something. She wanted everything to be perfect, a quiet and simple dinner without any hassles.

She was in the process of steaming Kimchi Dumplings, one of her boyfriend's fave, when the doorbell rang, she looked at the clock hanging by the wall, an hour before eight, common sense told her that it must be her significant other as it was too early for their guest to have arrive. Well, common sense just like instincts are not fool-proof, as the person behind the door was none other Kim Hyun Joong.

She stood by the door, a mixture of happiness, nervousness, anxiousness, awkwardness and giddiness, she was the one who begged for a meeting with him but she never expected it to be just with him, her alone with him.

"Annyeonghaseyo," he bowed, seemingly unsure of what to do or say next.

She bobbed her head, an assurance that she heard him though she remained silent.

"I know that I am an hour early, I was in the area," he started to explain. "I just finished filming a CF and driving back to Gangnam-gu with my staff at this hour will make it impossible for me to make it on time later so I decided to come here straight from filming," he said in details. "Is it okay? I don't wanna intrude upon you."

After a minute of self-realization, she gave him one of her sweetest smile and ushered him in, she asked him to sit, by himself, on the couch. "Make yourself at home. What would you like to drink, do you still have a preference for cola?"

He nodded, flashing a timid smile.

"Hyun Joong-sshi, you don't have to be so stiff, I won't bite," she teased. "Just relax, I'll go and get you something to drink," she said as she made her way back to the kitchen.

He stared at her retreating back, transfixed, after two years of not seeing each other, without any communication whatsoever, she still treats him like a close acquaintance. After those years, she is still as beautiful as ever, the captures of her, in stills and in films, doesn't give her exquisiteness justice, not at all. And after those years of taming his heart, it still beats without a care, by just the mere sight of her eyes, of her face, of her smile; and the moment she uttered his name, he felt like he was given a taste of heaven. And though he knows that his time with her is but passing, he can't help but feel that after a long journey, he had finally found his way home.

Truth be told, the TVXQ leader had a hard time persuading him to join them for dinner. He wouldn't dare to lie that the idea of seeing her again doesn't appeal to him, it's just that he was unsure whether the risk and the pain is all worth it. And the man was not a bit of help either, as he kept on dodging the real reason behind the meeting, saying that Hye Jung just wanna cook something delicious for the both of them, as if he will buy that. He looks more than healthy to him so the chances of her cooking for him everyday is huge (and visibly prominent) so him as the deadwood is the only unusual piece in the puzzle. But, he was not strong enough to decline till the end, who is he to deprive himself at least a little bit of pleasure, the mere thought of seeing her again after a long time sent ripples of delight to his exhausted body; and, still, the thought of it being his last chance to see her upfront and that close, his last chance to hear her talk or to hear her laugh, hopefully at his jokes, his last chance to see if her fierce eyes still turns all-caring and gentle when it is cast upon him, his last chance to sample her cooking, his last chance to be fed and serve by her, he just couldn't let his last chance pass him by.

Another truth, he was more than anxious about their meeting, the minute he said yes, his mind had already started rolling out scenarios of what ifs and what could be; he had unconsciously listed every little thing that should be done before the actual day, the clothes he will wear, the present that he will bring, the work and appointments that he had to rush; he even thought of an appropriate greeting and of a proper way to act in front of them, heck, he even practiced his poker face. And pathetic as it may sound, he was happily anticipating the day that he'll see her again, his days seemed so much brighter, his workload seemed a bit lighter and life seemed to be treating him better, and if anyone else noticed any difference in his actions and outlook, no one bothered to voice it out, they could all just be glad that his mood had picked up or they could all be wondering what he had eaten or smoked, but they all prefer him that way. Isn't it a wonder, how her charm and her littlest of ways can affect people.

Finally, the awaited day, the day that he will have the privilege to see her, again, after years of deep longing; the time to hear her voice as she talks to or about him is near and he can't help but feel joyful and blessed. His loads of work for the day was done in a hitch, he felt like he's floating and the sometimes acrid taste of his hard and grueling work as an artist was none.

Two hours before the appointed time, he was already getting ready, good thing that their location shoot was in her apartment's area and the building where they had filming have all the utilities he needed. He took a long shower, hoping to look fresh and untired; he wore one of those MVIO sponsored clothing - black slacks, gray long sleeves and a classic gray vest, he opted for the casual-semi formal look as he's not exactly sure what kind of event they will have, he's not exactly sure what the agenda of the get-together is but he had his thoughts, he can actually sense what he will go through that night; his hair was styled carelessly, showing an out-of-the-shower look, sealing his flower boy appeal.

A few minutes before the clock strikes seven, he was already at her building's lobby, debating with himself whether he should go up and impose upon her or wait in some nearby cafe giving fans and paparazzi an opportunity to take pictures and spread rumors, the practical and logical side of him won over and so he's there, sitting on her sofa, staring at the abyss, an hour before the set time.

"Hyun Joong-sshi!" He heard his name being called, he felt someone's hand on her shoulder, a tap and another, "Hyun Joong-sshi, come out of it."

"Oh," he smiled apologetically. "Mianhe, I might have traveled to another world while you're getting that glass of cola, don't worry I'm back now."

She chuckled, she can't help it, he's still as 4D as ever, who would give a statement such as, only Kim Hyun Joong. "I have to leave you again as I am not done cooking yet, are you sure you're okay on your own?"

He gave her one of his rare, real smile, the ones that reach his eyes, "I'll be, just be sure to wake me up if and when I doze off," he playfully told her, sure that he won't fall asleep even if he is paid to do so, he wouldn't waste his few precious moments in her company.

"Arasso," she conceded, he is still the same man she had been partnered with two years ago, still witty, still charming.

Her voice was playing an enchanting music in his mind, he would have been totally lost if not for the noise from the bouquet of gerberas and wild lilies that was laid on his side, almost ruined by his hand. "Aigoo, I forgot about the flowers, but don't you think that the way they were saved from being crush added to their charm?"

She reached for the flowers, grinning as she was, he really has a weird way of looking at things but it's always refreshing, "They are pretty, komapta. I'll put this in a vase and I'll finish off cooking, I'll see you in a while, okay? Oh yeah, loosen up and relax, I don't wanna find you frozen when I come back," she kidded.

He smiled and watched her sashayed her way into the kitchen, how can anyone be so beautiful in a loose house dress and food-smeared apron.

Hye Jung busied herself in the kitchen, keen on clinching her chore, she actually made it through without much obstacles, she's almost done, with enough time to fix herself and change into something more decent or more appropriate and to set the table before dinnertime. She, actually, still have a few minutes to spare to think and discern what, exactly, is she feeling at the moment.

She had known for a week that they will meet today, her man did everything he can to convince their guest to show up as a way of giving out on her whim. She had been busy preparing these past few days, in between her schedule, she did research about his food preference aside from the ones she already knew from their WGM heydays, shopping for the best ingredients and learning a few more cooking techniques. She may not admit it but she was mentally preparing herself - on how to deal, how to act, what to expect. She may not had given ample thought on her wardrobe but as she is always conscious of her appearance, looking good is already a given, she may not be shaking with dread but her insides were all fuzzy and her tail feathers were rumpled, she may not look queasy outside but she was, she is.

It has been two years, their last taping as a married couple, she remembers Jeju Island clearly, the words that were and were not spoken, the actions that were and were not done, what they had or might have had reached its end on that place. The last time they work together was at the 2008 MBC Awards where they won the best couple award, if their story ended in Mt. Halla, their book was completely close and was stock in the back shelf never to be open again in the awards night, it was a sealed fate by then. They randomly saw each other in between that time to present, but they stay out of each others way as much as possible, the lesser the interaction, the lesser the repercussions.

But now, they are here, the two of them together again, breathing the same air, standing on the same ground, what should she expect? She may not have been a physical part of Yunho and Hyun Joong's unwritten contract or treaty but as she is the central character, she still feel deeply indebted to him, he doesn't have to do it but he did. And to show him her gratitude, she wonder how.

She came back to the living room all pretty and composed, ready to face him, ready to answer inquiries, ready to pacify ill feelings, ready to pay her debts, she was ready to take on Kim Hyun Joong, but she wasn't prepared to see him sleeping soundly on her couch, as if he had been doing it his entire life, "He sleeps like a kid."

She angled one of the single settee so she can watch him sleep, she doesn't have anything more to do but to set the table and with her boyfriend still at work and their visitor in dreamland, she don't think dinner preps is a priority. At least a quarter of an hour had passed before they were both awaken, she from her reverie, he from his slumber, by the sudden ringing of the phone.

"Yoboseoyo!"

"Yunho-ah why aren't you here yet? You even promised to help me but as it is you are running really late. Hmmp..."

"Mianhe, I think I'll be an hour late, there were some technical problems here in the studio so the recording was delayed, I am really sorry."

"As if I can do anything than wait, but you better think of something to console my wounded pride or else," she half-joked.

"Saranghae, saranghae, saranghae Hye Jung-ah!"

"And you think that will work, you better pump up your game Mr. Jung," she tease.

Unbeknownst to them, one unfortunate soul is dying of envy, he thought he was prepared, he thought he was ready, but the wrenching feeling just made him realized that he's not, and it was not even on full impact yet.

"Hyun Joong-sshi is..." he trailed off.

"Here already, patiently waiting for the host to come, or should I think of you as a guest of honor?"

"Hmm... a guest of honor sounds important, I'll pick that."

"Ha-ha-ha, we shall eat before the honorable guest comes then, we're not keen on being patient tonight."

"Hye Jung-ah... Hye Hung-ah... how can a queen start a banquet without her king," he whined.

"The king is pissing the queen off so..." she purposely let her sentence hung.

"Arasso, arasso, the king will force the world to move in fast forward so as to get on the queen's good side," he laughingly remarked.

"Come home quickly, we'll wait for you," she lovingly end the call.

He sat through the whole conversation, blocking all that he could, to spare himself from hurting even more. He was thankful though, someone up there might have taken pity on him and gave him an hour more to spend with her, without the presence of the lucky bastard that owns her heart.

"Hyun Joong-sshi, Yunho will be hold up for an hour more, is it okay to wait for him, so we can all dine together?"

"No biggie," he muttered, 'we can sans dinner altogether and just stay here, only the two of us, just like the old times.'

It was the shortest but the sweetest one hour of his life, it was like a dream come true. They talked and they bantered like there were no two years of non-correspondence, they laughed and they joked like a day had not passed in between their relationship, they looked and treat each other like the world had turned backwards and they were back to what and who they were before; it was an hour of bliss and ecstasy for Kim Hyun Joong.

He would have given anything, he would have done everything in his power to extend his time with her, but what can he do, the universe conspire to grant him the opposite of what he wish for.

The doorbell rang, the king had arrived to take his place beside his queen, Hwangbo Hye Jung ushered Jung Yunho in, Kim Hyun Joong stood and took his place behind, he was afterall, just the gallant knight.

The Secret Code Ring 4

THE END OF A SECRET BEGINNING


Somewhere in the upscale-restaurant and cafe-littered Apgujeong stands a swanky fine dining establishment that caters to the rich and famous, a place where reservation is a must, where accoutrements are thought of, where security is high and discretion is a priority; a favorite to those who favors good food, cozy ambiance and privacy. It is the foremost destination of stars who wants to dine and hang-out without being ogle by the public's prying eyes, so it isn't a wonder that on a night when even the moon was shrouded by the clouds, Jung Yunho and Hwangbo Hye Jung walked in hand in hand, both, stunningly beautiful on their casual chic ensemble and, both, visibly wearing their hearts on their sleeves. They were ushered in a table that is nestled inconspicuously at the far left of the restaurant giving them the best view of the city through one-sided glass panels.

"They could vie for the best-looking couple in the world, noh?"

"And you say that everytime they are here," another maitre d' teasingly chimed in.

"I can't wait for them to get married and have children, I bet their offspring will be perfect," she gush continuously without giving any hint that she heard her co-worker's words.

"Be careful fangirl, you might scare them away!"

As the two ambiguously talk and do their work, they noticed that the other patrons of the place were also discreetly taking glimpses and having conversations about the couple. Smiles abound that night, it could be from the sheer pleasure of seeing top stars or, more so, from them being seen together. One common denominator from the repartee of the restaurant's loyal clientele was their happiness and admiration of the pair.

"In a world where superficial stuff matters the most, I can't help but admire those two for sticking together these... how many years has it been since we first saw them here, ah yes, almost two, right?"

"It just goes to prove that love endures and protects all, ironic as it may sound."

"I envy those two but I really hope, from the wicked-pit of my heart, that their love story never ends," even an obsessive politician's wife was heard commenting.

The elites of the world might have gathered and gawked but none of it matters, as the two lovebirds stayed intimately seated with her head slightly angled to his side as if she already knew that he will whisper something dear. They basked in the freedom, or the fraction of it, in being able to go out and date like a normal couple, with her hand gently cradled in his, they watched people passed by in the city streets living their lives, pursuing their dreams.

They kept in silence for several minutes, no one was inclined to talk but both were conscious of the other, one may think that they are created at the same time and share the same parts as every time one acts, the other will sure to follow, it was like an invisible thread at work. To those who didn't dare to dwell deeper, the two were silent observers of the night, they wouldn't see the casual side glances, the daring smiles, his philandering hands, the teasing glides of her stiletto-clad foot on his lower leg, the two were playing their own little mind (and body) game and nobody seemed to notice.

They would have love to play a wee bit longer but as they did come to satisfy their palette, the arrival of their food was still a welcome interruption. Yunho got himself a Fillet Mignon Steak while his lady love ordered Lobster Bisque, they also enjoyed a few cucumber and olive appetizer and shared a plate of Endive Salad; the bunch were drowned with a 1990 Dom Perignon, which was specially chosen by the handsome star himself.

"Good food, better wine, best woman... this is the life of a king."

"I love the rankings," she laughingly agreed.

"So, are you ready?" he casually threw a generic inquiry.

"Ready? Hmm, is that a trick question?"

"What? Are we playing here Hwangbo-sshi?" he asked grinning. "Seriously, have you thought about it, what do you wanna do with the rumor, how do you want me to go about it?"

"Oh, am I the one to decide your fate then?"

"You've been holding not just my fate, but my whole life, in your hands, it has been so since the day my heart beats your name and yours alone. And you know how I feel about this entire secrecy deal, so I'll leave the final decision to you."

"Really? And here I am thinking that it is the purpose of our date," she naughtily remarked.

"HA, do we need a purpose to date now? Can't I just treat my girlfriend out just because I want to?" he asked feigning irritation. "Okay, what do you wanna discuss, do we have to weigh the pros and cons like some political party?"

"If I don't know you, I might think that you're really offended but because I already know every bit and details of this and this and this..." she happily retorted while pointing at his head, his chest and his sides tickling him in the process. "I guess it is inevitable..."

"Good point! And the longer we drag it, the harder it may become in the end," he butted in, withholding none of his feelings.

"You don't have to look so happy," she teased.

She was waiting for a witty response but she was stunned to have gotten a long and loud smack on the lips instead, "You just don't know how happy you made me."

She laughed at his obvious pleasure and the simplicity of it, he's beaming like he's gonna be a father or something; he laughed because he's full to the brim with happiness, finally the privilege to call her his with the world as his witness; they laughed together and just like that, the decision was made.

Jung Yunho's secret will soon be revealed.

********************

It was one of those rare times, when the two of them are free of any work and appointments, and they can just lounge and laze about in their pajamas all day. She had filming up till midnight, so he decided to be a doting boyfriend and cook her breakfast, to the best of his know how, that is.

"Hye Jung, I made pancakes and toast, bacon and eggs and squeeze some fresh orange juice, come out and eat."

"Chincha? Coming..." she boomed from inside their room.

They spent the night and plans to spend the rest of the day on their love nest. It is a lovely one-story house located in the more secluded part of Seoul, they seldom come to the place but when they have a day or two of rest, they made it a point to hang out together in the white-picketed hearth that they both love. As each have their own condo units under their name, random and little breaks from work

were while away on each others place, depending on where is more accessible or safe at a given time.

"Oh wow, you cooked all these? What time did you get up?"

He just answered with a smile.

"If the Cassies find out that I turned you into my personal chef, I'm surely headed to the guillotine," she playfully remarked.

"You and your weird thoughts, open up, aaaaah," he instructed as he guide a piece of buttered toast in her mouth.

"Yummy! My Yunnie is really the best," she cooed while showing him a two thumbs up sign.

He chuckled despite his efforts not to, she can be so cute without even trying and the adorable her doesn't seem to know what she's capable of doing. "What shall we watch today? We had an English movie marathon last time, so that is out of the running, and NO to Kang Dong Won movies and dramas too."

"As if you really watched those American films, as far as I remember, the DVD player is on but you were too busy to focus on it, when you're not dozing off, you're attention is on something entirely different."

He grinned, yes he wasn't really paying attention at what was playing most of the time, he was too busy getting her attention and showing her his love. "I was inspired by the love scenes... I actually thought of some revisions to make my last performance better," he said with a wink.

She flushed, he can still make her vivid red as if she suffers from high fever, though they had been together for more than a year. "Let's do Korean drama today, your assistant mentioned that the most recent records are already downloaded in your external hard drive."

"Okay! Shall we try Yoochun's Sungkyunkwan Scandal or Hyun Joong's Playful Kiss?"

"Both, let's watch an episode of each and then decide on which one is more interesting, agree?"

"Geurae!"

It has been weeks since the two of them reached a decision, but no further moves was acted upon. The rumor mill hasn't exactly stop, speculations abound, suspicions are a-plenty, the public's interest is literally peaked. But as the story involves another character, someone whom he dragged into the casting, he's making a conscious effort to have his affirmation in the matter. He needs to settle some scores and clear some debts before they can all move forward.

He knows that the man is more than busy that's why he was kind of adamant in making his move, he purposely waited for him to finished his drama filming and other related activities before he can ask for a meeting of sorts.

"When do you plan to meet him?"

"As soon as his schedule permits, I can always cancel mine to make way," he seriously answered.

"After you settle your schedules, can I then invite you both for dinner in my apartment?"

"Waeyo?"

"I'll cook some of your favorites, as well as a few of his, I've been wanting to sit and eat dinner with you guys."

"Do you really have to, we can just dine out," he inquired.

"You can and will always have the pleasure of eating the food that I cook but for Hyun Joong-sshi, this could be the last and I really want to do this small gesture for him. Please..."

"Arasso, I'll make it happen." He encircled his arm behind her waist and pulled her closer to him, she on the other hand, obliged and fit her body onto his.

Just like the sun's setting to give way to the moon and the stars' timid light, just like how a phoenix burn in flames so he can have a wonderful rebirth, their secret beginning is coming to an end, an end that is crucial to start another beautiful story.


NOTE: I just read it, it sucks but I don't have the stamina and the mind to edit or redo it, so just bear with it. Mianhe, this story looks better in my mind than when I put it into writing :(