A Night in Seoul

Flying from Osaka to Seoul instead of Shanghai was definitely not part of the plan, but he’s taking all the chances he could squeeze out from his schedule just to get home. He tugged at his mask in irritation. He doesn’t understand why he needed to wear one, he wondered grimly as he looked at the offending material in disdain; masks and glasses are poor excuse of disguise if someone would ask him.

Leaning back against the car seat, he closed his red rimmed eyes and blew out a relieved breath. Here  on his own turf, he can be himself, he thought as he forced himself to relax. On impulse, he called home and told his mom that he’s going to be late. He only had twenty four hours, and he’s a man who knows his priorities well.

He was standing minutes later outside Min Young's door. He kept his finger pressed on the buzzer when she did not answer. He checked his watch, its only 9:15 in the evening.  He frowned at the possibility that she might  be out, and the thought somehow irked him. Resigned, he keyed in the code and winced when met with the blaring sound of pop rock. Her eclectic choice of music still manages to baffle him. Shaking his head, he toned it down and went straight to the fridge.

“You’re quick. Have you got everything?” Min Young called out.

Chang Wook abandoned the drink and went to search for her.

His heart leaped when he found her. She made quite a picture there, he thought as he stared at her face looking ethereal against the glow of light. Resting her head at the side of the bath tub, she seemed relaxed except for the lines etched between her brows. Her hair pinned carelessly on top of her head, but few tendrils managed to escape and now lay tantalizingly over the tops of her breasts partially covered by the bubbles. His mouth watered as he contemplated the rest of her under the water.

“Sorry, we could have eaten outside but I’m beat tonight. I’d rather stay in.” She muttered without opening her eyes, her lashes carving dark crescents against her flushed face.

Grinning, Chang Wook dipped one hand and caught one foot.

Min Young opened one eye, then two. And yelped before his hungry mouth swooped down for a kiss. She was caught totally unaware that she could have gone under if she did not hook one arm around his neck for leverage. Eyes shut, she angled her mouth to his and met the ravenous onslaught head on. 

They were both panting for breath when he shifted back. She covered his face with her hands, gazing at him with stunned pleasure dancing in her eyes. 

“Hey stranger.” She said softly, love and tenderness swept through her as she took in the exhaustion shadowing his eyes.

“Who are you expecting?” he asked when they heard the door.

Her half-lidded gaze widened, and she stood up hastily, only to bend over when she realized belatedly that she’s stark naked. He’d seen it all you fool, she mentally lectured herself. But still, she could feel her face turning hot in consternation.

He’s laughing when she snatched the towel from him. She retaliated by making a show of drying herself with slow seductive movements. Got you, she observed with satisfaction when the laughter died and his eyes darkened with desire. She threw a sultry smile at him, keeping her eyes on his as she slid into her mid-length robe and cinched it securely.  

She chuckled at the look of disappointment on his face. “Stay here.” She breezed out, her tongue tucked in her cheek.

Chang Wook cocked his head, a pointed reaction to her state of undress.

“It’s okay. It’s Min Seo. We’re supposed to be eating here tonight.”

His face brightened at the idea of food. Unmindful of what she asked him earlier, he followed her out of the room.

“Then there’s food? I'm starving.”

She smirked, tapping a finger on his mouth. “You and your appetite.”

“I didn’t know you’re here.” Min Seo beamed when she spotted him. “I guess I have to make a quick exit.” 

“Don’t be ridiculous. There’s more than enough for three people.” Min Young followed her to the kitchen and peered into the paper bags she brought, missing the exchange of signals between her friend and Chang Wook - him gesturing at her with his thumb pointing towards the door to leave, her shaking her head and miming that she’s staying.

Min Seo burst into laughter when he made a face. “No. I need to go. ”

Min Young spared Chang Wook a dark look. His smile widened, not bothering to look apologetic at all.

“You enjoy, you two.” Min Seo sent a conspiratorial wink his way but a telling look at the same time. She patted Min Young’s arms and gave her a hug. “I want all the details tomorrow,” she whispered with a twinkling in her eyes and strolled out.

“Let me just get dressed then we'll eat.” Min Young said after closing the door. She looked over her shoulder when he did not reply, and her mouth gone dry. He was looking at her with intense heat in his eyes. Involuntarily, she took a wary step back when he advanced towards her in quick purposeful steps, a slow but deliberate smile already forming his lips. All her thoughts scrambled in all directions, and a feeling akin to panic slicked through her back straight down to the base of her spine.

“Ah...wait,” she  almost stuttered when she felt the wall on her back. She plastered her hands on his chest, meaning to ward him off. 

“I thought you want to eat...” her voice was muffled as he leaned down and rubbed her lips gently with his. She looked at him in confusion; the gentleness of the kiss, in total contradiction to the predatory look in his eyes, threw her off stride. 

“Priorities,” Chang Wook stated as he leaned back, watching the irritation and relief flickering on her face. Tugging the towel covering her head, he smiled as her hair tumbled into his hand and over her shoulders. He wound a wisp around her ear then cupped her neck, pulling her towards him.

“Nothing to say?” He whispered, his lips a mere inch away from hers.

Min Young linked her hands at the back of his neck. “You’re talking too much,” she huffed before taking a nip. She traced his lips with her tongue, and the tormentor became the tormented.

A sigh escaped her lips when his mouth journeyed along her jaw to the sensitive hollows of her ear. His hands glided along her back, gently down to her sides and roughly up to the front. He drew her robe over her shoulders and skimmed his hands over her arms. She gasped when he flicked on one hard nub before sliding his fingers down to her waist and loosened the tie of her robe.  His teeth grazed and bit lightly on the nerve pulsing furiously against her neck.

She moaned and quivered under his touch, and held on to his shoulders. He slid down her body and explored her throbbing skin inch by inch, leaving a moist and sensuous trail.

Need and desire clawed into her like vicious and velvet fists. Her movements became more frantic as her fingers battled with buttons and belt. He impatiently helped her removed his shirt and she revelled at the sound of fabric ripping from the seams.

He took the twin nubs with his mouth, rolling them into glistened peaks. Her pleas became demands, her voice hoarse as she cried for more.  He slithered down, and through his mouth and fingers, pushed her towards the edge of reason. 

Crazed with need, she shoved her fingers through his dark hair and dragged him towards her for a desperate kiss. Her nails scored his flesh as she came violently against his hand. He caught her cries with his mouth and pressed his body on hers to keep her upright.

she went limp and her neck rolled languidly against his shoulder.

“Not yet.” He said in an urgent voice, clearing his head as his vision started to dim.

Look at me,” he demanded and waited for her to open her eyes before plunging into her. Her eyes glazed yet again, her body arched  as he drove them together to another delirious ride.

He rested his forehead at the top of her head, his body leaning heavily on hers. His breathing had yet to level as he waited for the world to right itself.

“We should go to bed.” she murmured, trailing her fingers up and down his damp back. Her lids were heavy and she could not feel her legs. She could have slid down to the floor into a useless heap if not anchored to him.

“Just a second.” he replied in a ragged voice. Bracing himself with palms flattened on the wall, he reached for her mouth and started to move again.

She made a strangled sound,  and gripped his shoulders as she was helplessly catapulted back to the storm.

*****

Beautiful Secret

Min Young woke up some time before dawn. She could feel the warm breath fanning the back of her neck, and smiled as she slid her hand on the arm clasping her waist. Which is a good thing, otherwise  she could have ended on the floor. 

He did not move a muscle when she turned around to face him. She brushed his hair away from his forehead and let her fingers slide gently along his cheek.

Her eyes clouded with deep emotion as she stared at the planes and angles of his face. Then it cleared, a fierce determination flashing over her face. 

She had her brush with controversies before and that was because she had chosen to be honest; she thought people would love and accept her no matter what. But her naivety cost her dearly, a mistake she vowed would never happen again. So much for being true and honest, she mused now without the bitterness she used to feel. And it was nasty. They were nasty. She would not want that to happen to him, to them. 

True, they have reached the level where no one can touch them, but there is still this doubt niggling at the deepest recesses of her thought – too small to let it affect them, but strong enough to destroy whatever they’ve kept and protected up to this point if they are not careful. Trust, he said. Trust and love will see them through.

“Like what you see?” his hand caught hers and kissed her palm without opening his eyes.

“No. I’m wondering why I'm letting someone take all the space in my bed, my bed…” she teased, pushing her fear and dark thoughts aside.

“It’s not my fault your bed is cramped.” He shrugged as he squinted at the spacious queen size bed.

He peered at the clock on the night stand and it read 5. “It’s too early,” he grumbled. He nuzzled her neck, and sneaked a hand underneath the blanket.

“Hey, don’t get any ideas.” She touched the center of his forehead with her index finger and managed to slip out from his grasp, but found herself entangled with the bed sheet.

He simply pulled her down and flipped her beneath him. He trailed lazy kisses along the column of her neck up to the sensitive spot behind her ear. “Too late, you woke me up so you got to pay.”

She shivered and groaned a weak protest as he kneed her legs apart and sunk into her, the blanket bunched between their heated flesh. He traced her mouth with his tongue and nibbled. Softly at first, then with varying degrees until the delicious warmth spread down to her toes.

“We have to stop. We –" she gasped as he caressed her through the fabric. He skimmed the curves and hollows with the flat of his hands. He capped, molded, kneaded. Gently and roughly, maddening her and leaving her frantic for more. The merciless friction and alternating sensation sent her to a mass of quivering ball, almost blinding her. 

“What?” he rasped without breaking his rhythm. 

Her body arched and her movements became frenzied, when he nudged her at the apex of her thighs; the already damp sheet still covering her.

“But if you insist,” he stopped and leaned back, watching her with half-lidded eyes and a small smile playing on his lips.

She swore as she hefted her legs around his hips, “You’re a dead man.”

“Oh I love it when you talk trash,” he murmured as he reached down, unveiling her and plunged into her. He muffled her cries with a hard and long kiss as the sudden movement hurled her to the brink. Then it became a race that both wanted to win. Their bodies were locked into a fluid embrace when they reached the ultimate finish, bathed with the first light filtering through the windows.

He drew her into his arms and tugged the badly wrinkled blanket over them. They stayed like that for a moment, replete but too revved to go back to sleep.

They still have four hours, he contemplated as he stole a glance at the clock. Four hours before they go back to their respective duties; him - flying back to China for the filming, and her - attending a fan sign event. He wished they were living in a different world, that they could freeze time. Time is not their friend at the moment and its always conspiring against them. So whenever they're offered a fragment, they take it gladly and greedily. He sighed as he gathered her closer, refusing to acknowledge the restlessness gnawing inside him.

She’s staring at the pulse beating rhythmically on his neck and at the set line of his jaw. She knew he’s in thinking mode again, and it’s making her uneasy. Beneath that unflappable attitude and amiable exterior lies a tough, restless soul wanting to break free.

“I had a dream.” He murmured, kissing her temple.

“Uhm?”

“We were canoeing. Just the two of us in the middle of this wide lake. The sun was downcast and you can see there’s a storm brewing on the horizon.”

“What are we doing there then? We should go back.” She said, her hand moving up and down his damp chest.

“It’s a dream. Anything can happen in a dream.” He caught her hand when it settled precariously near his pelvic regions. “And stop that, unless you’re ready for another round.”

A sultry smile appeared on her lips but said nothing. She shifted, supporting herself with bent elbows and rested her chin over her linked hands.

“Then suddenly a shark appeared. His jaws were gaped open, wide open with those sharp menacing teeth…”

“Yeah, I can see it.” She shuddered, her skin crawled just thinking of it.

“He’s watching you with those bulging eyes, creeping closer and closer, you could almost touch him. For him, you were a delectable meal. He should know better, you’re so skinny.” He rubbed her side affectionately.

She pinched his stomach in retaliation, “So what did you do?”

“I grabbed the paddle and whacked it hard on his head, and it slithered away.”

“My hero.” She planted a kiss on his lips.

“It was getting dark and we were too far from the shore we came from. There was no point going back. There was an island though, I don’t know how and why but it was there.”

“Well, it’s a dream.” She replied, echoing his words.

“So we went there. I was so tired. With all that paddling, I thought my arms would fall from their sockets. The island seemed deserted and there were no creatures, two-legged or otherwise, except us. My eyes were gritty, and my stomach was grumbling. And then, there was…” his voice dropped into a dramatic stage whisper. He looked at her with intense eyes as he paused, searching for a reaction.

She stared back at him with wide eyes, anticipating for his next words.

“Food.”

She blinked. And blinked again as the realization finally dawned on her. “You made all that up just for food?” She asked incredulously. “You could just have told me.”

“Well, you seemed so tired that I don't have the heart to ask.” He rubbed his stomach when it growled at that exact moment sending her to a fit of hilarity.

“And who’s fault is that?” She leaned down and kissed him.

Yes. Its another day for us. She reflected as she gazed tenderly into his laughing eyes. Another precious moment to be kept and cherished, something to add on to the growing pile of their beautiful secret. It is...for now.

It Had To Be You

*****

The rain was pattering softly against the windows. The room was dark except for the light emanating from the muted television. He’s watching a replay of a soccer game between two teams she could vaguely remember, while giving her a foot rub. For the first time in months, his schedule managed to coalesce with hers and they’re having a well-deserved downtime.
 

Those hands would be the death of me - she sighed blissfully as she reached for the cup of warm honey lemon tea.

“Any plans for tomorrow?” She moved one foot and tucked it under his knee.
 

“Mm?” Chang Wook arranged the throw over her legs. “What’s tomorrow?”

Her eyes widened then zeroed in on his face. He kept his profile focused on the game, but he’s watching her at the corner of his eyes.

“What?” He glanced at her, feigning ignorance, when she remained quiet.

She removed her feet in mild annoyance, and started to get up. “Nothing, I’m going to bed now.”

He fought the twitch on his lips. Of course, he did not forget.

“Hey.” He grabbed her by the waist and sat her on his lap, holding her tight when she gave a puny resistance.

"Let me see...I have work almost the whole day, but we can go out for dinner afterwards.” He said smoothly, letting one finger slide on her cheek.

She burrowed against his neck to hide her disappointment.

He curved his lips against her hair, trying not to laugh. “I’m sorry. We can go to Paris next weekend if you like.” He kissed the corner of her mouth.

She finger-drilled his chest. “It’s not that. I thought you forgot.” She said in a disgruntled voice, barely stifling a yawn.

“How could I?” He brushed a wisp of hair away from her face. “Come on, let’s get you to bed.”

***
When he said it’s dinner, she was not expecting this.

She kicked off her sandals to the sides, and sunk her feet deep into the white sand; the gritty sensation somehow relaxing them. She tilted her face up towards the ebbing sun, letting the sea breeze fill her lungs.

He could not believe they have reached this far, he mused as he watched her. Last year had been tumultuous for both of them, but they made it through. There were times though that she would hold herself back; afraid of even daring to hope that everything is real, that everything is for keeps. But little by little, she learned to trust again and bloomed into something more.

“What are you doing here alone?” he linked his arms around her tiny waist, kissing the top of her head.

“You were busy on the phone, so I thought I would look around.” She replied, clutching his arms. “How did you find this place? It’s nice and quiet.”

“Do you like it?”

“Yes.” She gave an involuntary shiver. He adjusted his windbreaker, covering them both, and tightened his arms around her.

They watched together as the clouds rolled in and the sun descended, showering a glittering shimmer on the water’s edge.

"What’s that?” she asked, pointing at a table nearby.

“Ah. That’s dinner.” He replied, checking his watch.

“You prepared them?!”

He chuckled and managed to look mildly insulted at the incredulous look over her face.

“If that’s ramyun then I believe you.”

“Ouch. That hurts.”

“Everyone knows you can’t cook, Mister. You just eat.” She teased with a twinkle in her eyes, scurrying towards the makeshift table. “No.” She arched her brows. “Definitely, someone helped you.” She looked askance at the stylish display of food, then darted a skeptical glance at the house.

"We’re alone,” he replied in an evasive tone. He poured red wine into the glasses, and handed her one.

“What are we toasting for, aside from its being my birthday?”

The look he gave her made her catch her breath. “To us.” He said softly, touching his glass on hers.

Her eyes drenched with unshed tears as she raised her glass with a trembling hand. “To us.”

***

He threw another log over the open fire.

 “Dinner, bonfire, and I thought it’s just a simple dinner out in a restaurant. What else do you have on your sleeves?”

He just gave a faint smile while absently playing with the tendrils of her hair.

“Come on, let’s dance!”

“What?!” He looked at her, startled. “No. You dance and I’ll watch.”

“It’s only us here.” She cajoled, tugging at his hand.

“Even so…I wouldn’t do it.” He replied in an amused voice, tucking one arm under his head.

“Not even for me?”

“Especially not for you.” His smile widened.

She leaned down, and whispered something.

His eyes drooped and gazed at her mouth. “Is that a bribe?”

She laughed, kissing him hard and swift.

She beckoned him with a crooked index finger, daring him with a flirtatious smile on her lips as she moved gracefully around the fire. She glided, she floated, she swirled; her movements made more seductive by the dancing shadows of flames.

He tried to follow her moves, but they were anything but smooth. He made an awkward bouncy skip, swaying his hips outrageously with hands waving wildly in the air.

She threw her head back, clutching her middle sections in uncontrollable glee.

Enchanted with the glow on her face, he outstretched his hands with palms up. “How about teaching me?”

Yet, she let him lead. He swayed them to a rhythm as old as time, as natural as the very air they breathe. The only sound that’s guiding them was the crackle and hiss of wood being licked by fire, accompanied by the distant sound of waves crashing into the shore.

She laid her head on his chest as she closed her eyes, savoring the moment. Then she felt something hard behind her legs. He just maneuvered her on a chair!

He knelt in front of her, holding both her hands.

Her breath hitched when he pierced her with those dark honey liquid need-you eyes.

Tears streamed down her face in earnest when he opened the velvet box, revealing a simple band encrusted with tiny diamonds.

“Don’t cry. I have not started yet,” he murmured, his voice husky with pent up emotions.

“Min Young. I’m not good at promises, so I’m not going to promise you anything.” A tremulous laugh escaped her lips.

“I’m going to show you instead how much I love you...how much I need you. It has to be you...I cannot imagine a life without you. I know it’s scary out there and nothing’s certain, but if you take this chance with me, I will make you really really happy.” He paused for a moment, feeling a lump rose through his throat. “Min Young, will you be my wife? Be the mother of my children. Grow old with me…”

He staggered back when she flung her arms around him, and kissed him.

The constricting band around his chest loosen up. “I take that as a yes. We’re doing this backwards.” He grinned as he slipped the ring on her finger. “And now you can kiss me.” He tasted the tears, but knew they were tears of joy and of enduring hope.

Pop! Crack!

What? – Her mouth gaped in shock as fireworks whizzed through the air, and the explosions of myriad of colors turned the midnight sky into crimson hues.

Then a movement caught her eye. No, movements - she corrected herself.

“It took you so long. It’s chilly out here.” Complained Bang, and was followed by a cacophony of congratulatory chorus.

She was dumbstruck as his mom, her family, his friends and hers trooped down from the shadows towards them.

A funny sick expression fell over her face, her small hands almost crushing his big ones. “They were there all these time?” Panic seeped through her voice as she squeaked the last three words. 

"Why, we did nothing wrong, did we?” he laughed out loud when she tried to cover her flushed face with their clasped hands.

The catcalls and knowing looks left no doubt what they saw.

Love heals. Love conquers all, and they have a lifetime to prove it.

Shanghai Blues

NSFW/S alert!!! Or maybe not...you be the judge! There's nothing grey on it, just a bit of red and shades of pink in between...really.

***

He’s dying for a cigarette. He was trying hard to kick the habit, but it’s so difficult when you’re in the middle of filming in the frigid winter of Shanghai surrounded by strangers, away from family and friends.

Fans are everywhere, and he’s certain they’re having a snapping spree of his smoking like they do whenever he goes in and out their hotel or wherever he goes in that matter. He doesn’t care. Hell, he’s not a saint! But he’s not forgetting his responsibilities either. He’s just hoping that fans would be more considerate and forgiving. He studied the glowing tip of the cigarette for a moment before he took the last drag and tossed it into the bin.

He’s not so keen on the attention he’s getting, but it’s a price he has to contend with. He took a deep breath and focused his attention on his script. Learning to read and speak in Mandarin is such a pain, and he’s thankful for his translator’s patience and understanding. The other actors and crew were also a great help, making the filming an enjoyable, albeit a challenging task.

He peered into his phone and smiled when he saw her message. Hiding behind a staff and shielded by an umbrella, he checked it more carefully and grinned when her face filled his phone screen, along with a provocative caption: “Guess where I am”. He looked around him and caught Bang’s smirk. He just smiled widely and keyed in a quick reply. He’s going to call her once they’re back in the hotel.

It was way past midnight when they packed up. He rubbed his nape, where a dull ache started to gather. He's almost dragging his feet in exhaustion.

He entered his hotel room and stopped dead in his tracks when he saw a form huddled in his bed. There’s no way he could be in a different room! He thought with alarm and eyed grimly at the unmistakable human shape, covered in a duvet.

He gritted his teeth as he contacted the reception. This is the first lapse in security and he’s not taking it lightly!

“Hi. Its room 888, I need you to…” the figure stirred and turned facing him.

His eyes widened in shock when he realized who it was.

“Yes?” the receptionist was asking.

“Sorry, never mind.” He stared incredulously at Min Young’s face as he replaced the receiver.

What is she doing here? When did she come? How did she enter?  There were so many questions racing through his head. But first things first…

He sat beside her and tugged down the blanket. He lifted a brow when she tried to pull it back without opening her eyes.

His heart gave a humming sound when he saw the skin exposed by her skirt that had ridden up her thighs. He slid his cold hand along her calf and had the pleasure of looking deep into her eyes when they sprung open.

The lazy smile, coupled with the sexy sleepy eyes plunged him straight to sensual turmoil. He brushed her tousled hair away from her face, reassuring himself that she's not just an illusion.

“Finally,” she squinted at the clock on the nightstand. It's 12:25 am. “I’ve waited for ages.” She let her fingers slide on his cheek, and cupped his face with both hands, looking at him searchingly. 

“You should have called you’re coming.”

“Then it would not be a surprise after all.” She tried to sit up but found herself pinned underneath him.

“I should call security,” he skimmed her thighs with his fingers. “I don’t know how you got in,” he murmured, nibbling lightly at her neck. “But this is the best surprise I ever had.” He trailed a necklace of kisses on the peaches-and-cream swath of a skin just above her breasts.

The tension built for hours of waiting made her quiver as his hands took their sensuous journey on her body; demanding for a release. She slipped her hands underneath his shirt and tried to kiss him. But he leaned down, capturing her wrists and shackled them above her head. 

He lingered, teasing her with agonizingly slow kisses. She tossed her head helplessly from side to side, arching her body in total surrender. She groaned, now captivated in the intoxicating heat of desire. Her blood turned to liquid fire, ready to implode any time. 

She caught her breath when she felt those wicked fingers fluttered near the junction of her legs. He let his fingers cruise to her waist instead, and up to her chest; fleeting touches that were meant to soothe and make her wild. He smiled on her scented skin when she made a guttural sound, more like a cry.

He undid the buttons of her long-sleeve blouse so slowly that she wanted to rip it off herself. He reached out behind her, flicking deftly at the snap of her bra. She shivered at the gust of cold air. He was looking at her with a dangerous glint in his eyes, and she fought the urge to cover herself. 

He kissed her with open mouth as he slithered down her body; his fingers never ceased playing, stroking until she's almost sobbing in desperation. Sensations after sensations swept her as she let herself danced under his spell.

He felt his control slipped down a notch as he took the eroticism of it all; her flushed bare skin writhing wantonly against his fully clothed frame. He ruthlessly clamped down  on his own raging need as he gave, never taking anything in return. 

Her eyes had gone opaque when she crested over that first wave, gripping tightly at the bed sheets. He did not stop. He just reeled her in, and drove her back again...and again to that voluptuous web.

She lay sprawled across the bed, deliciously spent; totally ravaged that she could not move. He regarded her steadily as he undressed unhurriedly under her heavy-lidded gaze.

His hungry mouth found hers when he finally slid into her, nudging and pushing her one last time to the edge. And this time, when she had the fall, she was not alone. But it was more of flying as they soared together to  the blissful horizon and beyond.

Call Me Baby

Our two lovelies are having their much needed rest. So we let them be, shall we? As long as they won't take forever, we're okay with that. In the mean time, here's something to chew on and tell me what you think. Enjoy!

***

“Are you taking any meds?” she asked when he coughed.

“I will when I get home.” He wheezed as his handler passed him a bottle of mineral water. He closed his watery eyes and leaned back into the car seat. His head feels like being pressed by two bricks and his goddamn nose doesn’t stop dripping. His body’s aching all over and he wishes for bed. He's thankful the promotional event went on smoothly and done right on schedule.

“I will come over later. I wish I could come now, but the shooting has not finished yet.”

“It’s okay. I will be alright.” He misses her terribly, but had to wait. “Talk to me. How's my girl?”

“Nothing changed since the last time we talked which was last night.” She replied in an amused voice. “We’re having a break now.” She gripped her phone tight when another spasm of coughing attacked him.

“That's it. You need to rest. I will see you later.” She said amidst his weak protests. “Take your meds.” She ordered and hanged up.

Few hours later, he woke up with a nagging but tolerable headache.

“Ah, you’re awake. How’s the head?” his mom asked, her face etched with worry. She sat at the side of his bed as she gave him a glass of water.

He drank thirstily. Despite the headache, he felt much better. “I’ll live,” he replied wryly, his voice raspy.

“Do you really have to leave early tomorrow?”

The selfish side of him wants to forego the flight tomorrow, but it would not be fair to the others. “Mom, I would not want to cause any delay. Besides…” he paused as he was assailed with the now occasional coughing fit. “We’re almost done.” He croaked.

She breathed out heavily and fought the instinctive pull to mother him.

“Would you like something to eat? You’re due for your pills anyway, but you need to eat first. Min Young came over awhile ago and brought you a flask of nice broth.” She smiled as his gloomy face brightened. “You were sleeping then and didn’t want to disturb you.”

“I wanted you to meet her. What do you think of her?” A dopey smile plastered on his lips as his mind wandered.

She pursed her lips as if in consideration. “She’s really pretty, much prettier than on screen. We have not talked much as she was in a hurry.” She was actually surprised. She got this impression that she’s going to be snobbish, like how most celebrities are. But less than five minutes with her and she knew they’ll get along. Of course, she’s not telling that to his son who’s now looking smug.

“She’s actually in a middle of a shoot. I told her not to come.” He shook his head, and stood up gingerly. “Did she say anything else?”

“Just to make sure you finish all the soup,” she waited for a bit, and then added, “and you snore like a freight train.”

His eyes widened.

She nodded, answering his silent question. “Yes, she came here inside your room and had to endure a few moments of your god-awful noise before she decided she had enough and escaped.”

“I don’t snore.” He protested in embarrassment, “Well I do, but is it really that bad?” He mumbled as his mother laughed at his predicament. No, she thought, he was sleeping quietly like a babe and the tender look she witnessed on Min Young’s face awhile ago made her think and wonder.

***

Min Young sighed as she studied her script. Ha! She got to be kidding. She shut her eyes as the words and lines seemed to dance in a blur. She’s trying to concentrate, but his pale face kept on intruding her thoughts. She has not seen him since yesterday, except for the glimpses of him on TV promoting the new government campaign. He looked awful and gaunt. Now he has to go back to Shanghai!

She stood up and paced listlessly, debating with herself if she’s going to call him or not. Her personal assistant came forward and passed her a cup of coffee.

“You would not be able to reach him.” She commented when Min Young glanced at her wrist watch for the umpteenth time. She estimated their plane has not landed yet.

A flicker of annoyance passed through her face, but said nothing. She blew tresses of her hair that fell down on her face in frustration and took a sip of the latte. She knew he’ll call her once they reach Shanghai, but could not stop herself from worrying. Still she thought of him as she willed herself to focus on her script.

***

She’s muttering to herself in irritation, while trying to stomp down on the elation bubbling inside her. Who would expect him to return today, of all the days? She asked him last night when he’s coming back and just tried to evade the subject.

“What time should we be there?” she asked without turning when someone entered her room. They’ll be having a wrap up party for “Remember–War of the Son” in the next hour, and she just want to be done with it.

She glanced at her watch impatiently as she didn’t receive a reply. She checked again her phone for messages and there’s none. What’s wrong with him? He has landed hours ago and has not called or texted yet. She’s fighting the urge to make the first call. She doesn’t want to be accused as a nagging girlfriend! But she would if he’s not calling her in the next half hour. She glared at her phone, willing it to ring.

She frowned when she heard her door locked, and felt a tingling sensation at the back of her head.

She froze and a scream trapped in her throat when brawny arms encircled her waist, followed by the achingly familiar figure nuzzling the crook of her neck.

“Hello, gorgeous.” He murmured. He tightened his hold when he felt her go pliant in his arms.

Displeasure warred with joy as she tried to turn, meaning to give him a piece of her mind for the scare, or maybe kick him on the shin.

She moaned instead, clutching his arms as he rained a string of kisses at the side of her neck. Her heart was still beating fast, and could not do anything but held on.

“Did you miss me?” He asked in between kisses.

She turned when he relaxed his hold, slid her arms around his neck and tiptoed, giving him a saucy smile.

She bit his lower lip, and nibbled soothingly when he protested. “That’s for scaring the living daylights out of me.” She cupped his face and looked deep into his eyes as she angled her lips against his.

An avalanche of need flooded him while he gathered her deeper into his arms. He closed his eyes as her tongue darted through his mouth, and gave him that kiss.

“And that’s how I missed you.” She whispered when she leaned back moments later.

His hands were wandering restlessly on her back, clawing in the temptation to go further. They need to take it slow, and he’s acutely aware of her assistant stationed outside her door timing him like a general. They have a party to attend to and he was only given 10 minutes tops.

He wound a stray of her locks of hair around her left ear, and gazed at her intently. “Nice to see you too. Is everything alright?”

“Yeah…now that you’re here.” She replied before giving him a playful punch on his abdomen. “You’re crazy! You didn’t tell me you’re coming back today.”

He laughed as he caught her hands, and could not stop himself kissing her petulant mouth. “I wanted to surprise you.”

“I could not possibly ditch the party.” RWOTS has reached the two zero all time high rating, and everyone’s expected to come.

“Oh no, you must go. I…” he stopped mid-sentence when someone rapped sharply at the door. He scowled towards that direction, and slid his arms around her. He drew her up until they’re almost at eye level and touched her forehead with his. “Just few more seconds…”

She laced her legs around his hips and sunk her fingers into his dark hair. She aimed her languid eyes on his as their bodies moved into some inaudible music, lost momentarily in their own world.

Into You

Watching the BTS on Healer's Episode 15 inspired me to pen this. Kudos to @mrandmrshealer for the clips. Enjoy!

***

He stared down at the woman snuggling him in bed, and wished fervently they're in a private room safe from the ogling of the production staff. It doesn't help when that woman keeps on wiggling and trying to cuddle deep into his arms. He's getting uncomfortable there, and would do anything just to kiss her once more.

The memory of the passionate kisses they've shared earlier on the previous takes stirred deep seethed lust that has stayed dormant for months...no, years! He's so acutely aware of her soft curves plastered against his hard body, wreaking havoc on his senses. Behave! He scolded himself mentally and looked around guiltily, trying to see if the staff are taking covert recording.

He jolted out of his reverie when Min Young's hand inadvertently landed on the sensitive area just below his abdomen. He quickly glanced at her, but she was sleeping, blissfully unaware of his lecherous thoughts.

He removed her hand carefully and transferred it to his waist, and hugged her closer. He inhaled deeply, drawing in the heavenly scents he came to crave. He closed his eyes and imagined they were on a secluded beach, basking under the sun with the cool water lapping gently on their feet.

Damn! You're enjoying it! He cursed silently when the director shouted "Cut." He cast an accusatory stare at him, who was smiling knowingly.

Min Young stirred and moved out of his embrace, facing away from him. He frowned and slid his hand under her shoulders, pulling her back gently towards him. She shivered uncontrollably. She nuzzled deep into the crook of his neck, and her hand tightened around his abdomen. He inhaled sharply, nearly undone. He angled his body so that they're not touching down below. She will run from here screaming surely. He mused as he arranged the blanket around them.

She awoke when she felt a finger sliding gently on her cheek. Someone's crooning at her to wake up. She doesn't want to wake up just yet. She's dreaming of him kissing her out of her senses in the middle of a busy street. All of the people gathered around them were applauding and shouting in encouragement. She smiled contentedly. If only this someone would just go away...

He smiled when he saw two lines furrowed between her brows. "Come on, sweetheart. You've got to wake up."

Her eyes fluttered open, and panicked almost immediately when she stared into his honey dark eyes. Is it real? I thought it's a dream! She moved restlessly and exhaled a sigh of relief when the noisy room registered in her sleep befuddled brain.

"I'm sorry." She said huskily. "How long was I asleep?"

"It's nearly thirty minutes." It's actually one hour and a half, but he's not telling her.

"Thank God." She exclaimed and looked at the Director in bewilderment when he strolled towards them saying it was a good take.

"We were able to shoot the scene while you're down under." She looked more appalled, and scrambled to get up.

"Easy. You might fall down. You're not fully awake yet."

Min Young shook her head. "I'm so sorry. That's so unprofessional of me. You should have woken me up." She spared him a guilty look.

Chang Wook sighed as she got up. Game's up. He could not do anything, but to follow suit. He slid his arms into his thick jacket while watching her being assisted into hers by her personal assistant. She sent him furtive glances, and looked away immediately when he caught her. He's sure she's looking flushed, and thought she's still not well.

"Look. If you're still not up to it, I can ask the director if we can shoot the other sequences first."

She looked at him with surprise. She automatically covered her face with her hands, as she realized he must have mistaken her beet red face to her illness.

"No. I'm okay. Let's do it." She picked up her script and flicked through the pages.

Chang Wook smiled and ambled towards the Director.

***

They're kissing again. He's not complaining though. He liked it a lot, but he's worried what Min Young might think. He doesn't want her to think he's taking an advantage of the situation – which is half the truth. Who can blame him?

So he asked her what she thinks of the scenes. "They are alright. They are demanded of in the scripts. It's not as if Song Ji Na put them out capriciously just to please the viewing public."

"That's what I thought. She said they are to show the emotional growth of Jung Ho. I just thought you might get offended." He was smiling, but staring intently at her face.

"No." She tried not to squirm.

"What's the matter? Is there something in my face?" Why oh why his stares making me gooey inside. Her heart's beating fast, and she gripped on her script as if a lifeline. She laughed self-consciously and fought the urge to cover her face. No. Min Young, get hold of your herself. Don't get into that trap again! 

Chang Wook shook his face, but didn't look away. "I'm just thinking we're nearly finished here and we never had gone out for a meal. I mean, just the two of us, away from the prying eyes of the crew and staff."

She gaped at him in surprise. "Why?" She asked, trying to clear her throat when her voice croaked out.

He chuckled, pleased that he's making her uncomfortable. "Nothing, I just thought it would be nice if we could go out alone for once. Unless, there's someone's holding you up?" He asked her smoothly while watching her conflicted emotions playing across her face. He's certain this is not the case, as she's single and unattached the last time he checked.

Min Young gazed at his hopeful smile. "I'm sorry." She said after a while, avoiding his stare. Oh please don't look at me like that.

"Why?" He was still smiling, but his eyes gently probing.

"We'll take a rain check. I'm busy and I know your schedule's fully packed. Shall we do it maybe after the show?"

"Alright then," they both knew it was a flimsy excuse, but he did not say anything. He knew her by now that it has nothing to do with their schedules.

Min Young didn't know she's holding her breath until that moment, and smiled hesitantly.

"Would you like a drink? I'll get you one then we'll continue where we left of." She stood up waving the script. She did not wait for his reply and tried an enormous effort to walk normally while she's actually in desperate need to get away from him.