DongHae
I burst through the hospital doors, my cap pulled firmly over my head. It was raining outside, so I had a reason to be wearing one, though it was really to keep anyone from recognizing me. Hyuk and Min burst in after me, both of them soaked to the core.
I stared around wildly, ignoring the stares of the people standing around. I probably looked crazy to them.
There was a sudden commotion in the corridor. A nurse rushed past me, pushing me into Hyuk.
"What's going on?" said Min, looking worried. He pulled his cap further down his head. He wasn't very used to wearing hats, not like Hyukkie and me.
The tension in the hall grew even more. Doctors were flying from all over the place, pushing us around, but I didn't complain; someone was definitely in a critical condition.
Then the unexpected.
There was a yell that sounded like "Hyuk!" only I wasn't sure, it was too noisy. Then someone crashed right into Hyuk, a girl with shot wavy hair and a fringe. She was sobbing, wrapping her arms around his neck. Hyuk looked bewildered, then pulled away slightly and looked at her properly.
"HyunJae!" he yelled in shock. She looked at him with eyes as red as the devil.
SungMin hurried to her, asking her questions to the dozen.
I wasn't listening.
Everything was muffled.
Because if HyunJae had just run from that direction...
The world blurred around me.
I was flying down the corridor blindly, hearing nothing, feeling nothing.
There was only one thing on my mind.
JaeHwa.
Suddenly the world was full of noise;panicked yells and screams.
I was flattened against the wall as I was nearly ran over by a stretcher.
I stared at it as it went past.
And stared into the bloodstained face of Lee JaeHwa.
JunSu
She was drifting in and out of consciousness.
I'd never get that last image of her out of my head now. The first time I had seen her since she'd moved to Japan.
I'd waited so long to see her. So long.
It had all gone so so wrong.
It might be the last time I'd see her again.
General point of view
"JunSu!" yelled JaeHwa. "HyunJae!" She waved ecstatically, her heart feeling like it would burst from happiness.
Across the road, JunSu was smiling. Smiling so hard he thought his face would rip itself. He had been waiting for so long, waiting ever since she had left. They were bound, and he would always be there for her. No matter what.
This was the moment.
Finally.
He looked over at HyunJae, standing next to him. She was smiling too, but there was no way she felt the way he was feeling. After all, she'd seen her a few months ago. And she already had her brand new beau. He'd met him once. He was pretty quiet, and a bit old for her... but JunSu could see she liked him. Alot.
He remembered that little pang of jealousy when he first met HyukJae.
He was glad that it as gone now.
"Why couldn't we pick her up from the airport?" he asked Hyun.
"Because she spent the day with her family, silly," HyunJae replied. She felt a little shiver of happiness at the thought of JaeHwa seeing DongHae again. They were made for each other. She smiled even more.
The traffic didn't seem to be stopping.
JaeHwa stepped forward when she saw an opening in the steady flow of traffic. She was so close to them now. Just a little more.
She didn't notice how close she was to the cars going past.
JunSu watched her looking left and right, inching forward every now and then. A bad feeling began to grow in him, but he brushed it off. She was shining. She was so happy. He smiled for her, smiled because the three of them were together again.
And then it happened.
"Jae!" HyunJae yelled out, making JunSu jump out of his skin. "Jae, look out!"
JaeHwa looked up, and at the same moment a car went past. Her bag got caught on the side-view mirror, and she was flung to the ground.
JunSu saw it all in a blur. One moment she was standing up, the next she was on the ground. He watched her hoist herself up, looking a bit groggy. "Get up, Jae!" he yelled, his heart beating furiously. "Get off the road!" He got ready to run forward.
She'd scratched her knee, and felt a bit stupid sitting on the road like that. You're an idiot, Lee JaeHwa, she thought, and tried to sit up. There was a loud beeping behind her. She turned her head around and that was when the world went black.
"JAEHWA!" HyunJae screamed, so loud that JunSu was sure that the glass windows in the offices above would break.
His world had just fallen apart.
He watched the car come up behind her, and the driver struggling to slow down. He was desperately honking at her, but her reactions were too slow. And he could only watch in horror as his best friend was hit by that car, as she flew a few centimeters backwards. He could only see the look of shock on her face, could only hear the thunk as her head hit the road.
He could do nothing.
HyunJae ran forward, her mind reeling. "No, no, Oh God, no," she muttered under her breath, her heart hammering nineteen to the dozen. She flung herself down beside her best friend, and felt something warm between her fingers. She looked at them.
They were covered in scarlet blood.
She screamed, jumping backwards into someone's legs. She looked up and felt JunSu sink down beside her. He weakly checked for JaeHwa's pulse, his jeans turning red.
"Hyun..." he said flatly, breathing hard. "Call the ambulance."
She felt paralyzed. Her brain wasn't working.
"HYUN!" JunSu screamed. "NOW!"
"We've called them, son, come away from her," said an ahjumma, pulling HyunJae backwards, but she fought, trying to get closer to JaeHwa.
"JaeHwa!" she screamed, over and over, wishing that JaeHwa would open her eyes, would sit up and say that it was all a joke, that she was alright.
And they'd link arms and hang out in the mall like they'd plan to.
There was only one thing she could think of doing right now.
She pulled out her phone, speed-dialing and bringing the phone up to her ear, hands shaking, still covered in Jae's blood. No answer. She dialed again. An answer!
"HyukJae...?" she said, struggling to keep her voice from shaking.
No. It was DongHae.
She listened to them teasing each, and found herself laughing. It was high-pitched, not her laugh at all. And finally, she was hearing his familiar voice.
"Hyuk!" she screamed. "Hyuk, JaeHwa's been in an accident!"
"What?!" he yelled.
She started sobbing. "There's blood everywhere, her eyes aren't open and we've rung for an ambulance, Hyuk, I'm scared, I think she's going to die."
"Don't be stupid, Hyun, she'd not going to die!" he exclaimed. "Look, breath normally, take slow, deep breaths, and -"
"Oh my God, her eyes are open! Get DongHae here! Now!"
EunHyuk was about to sprint through the door when he heard a rustling sound, a crackling.
"HyukJae..." someone said weakly.
"JaeHwa..!" he said, gasping. "You're going to be fine, Jae, you're going to be fine." He could feel tears running down his cheeks. She was going to be alright.
"Hyukkie... tell... DongHae... that I... love him..." her voice trailed off.
He put a hand to his mouth, sobbing. She didn't sound like the JaeHwa he knew, the JaeHwa he'd come to love.
"The ambulance is here, Hyuk, get to the hospital as fast as you can," said HyunJae. Her voice was blocked up with tears, and he knew that she would be struggling to hold them back. She was always trying to.
"I'll try, Hyun," he said. He didn't want to tell DongHae, didn't want him to see Jae.
"I love you, Hyukkie."
"I love you, Hyunnie."
Click.
It was over.
JunSu
I stared up into a fmiliar face. I'd seen him before... somewhere...
Oh. That's right. When Jae was in the hospital. What was his name...?
Lee DongHae.
He liked her. I could tell the last time I saw them together. And she liked him too.
And then what happened?
She got hurt because of him.
A stab of anger went through me as I watched him gasp at JaeHwa's appearance. I'd said I'd be her bodyguard, and I meant it. Even though there was nothing much left of her to protect.
DongHae
"Jae..." I whimpered, struggling not to cry. Her hair was wet, the stretcher she was lying on covered in blood.
But I still loved her.
I brushed my fingertips against her cheek, running beside the stretcher.
Her eyes. Opened.
"Hae," she whispered. A weak smile. But a smile all the same. She struggled to bring her arm up, to try and touch me. It fell back down to her side. Her eyes closed.
And then they opened again.
I grabbed her hand, caressing it. I didn't care that my hand was now covered in her blood. That her friend JunSu was staring at me.
"Hae, I love you."
Tears spurted in my eyes. I'd always been the first one to say it.
The stretcher burst through the operating doors.
"Sir, please stay outside," said the nurse, pushing me back.
"Please save her," I pleaded, feeling the moisture running down my cheeks.
"We'll do our best," said the nurse, then left me, closing the operation room doors.
I never felt more alone.
I sank down against the wall, my head in my hands.
Someone crouched beside me.
Someone put their arms around me, hugging me.
I wished to God that it was JaeHwa.
But that was impossible.
I buried my head in Min's shoulder as he held me tight.
"She'll be fine, she'll be okay," he murmured, holding my head against him.
Hyuk sat beside me, hugging me as well. He said nothing, leaning his head against my head.
Maybe he knew that no words of comfort would work.
Maybe he knew that she might not be here tomorrow.
I loved Hyuk because he didn't always need to say what he felt.
HyunJae
They wheeled her into the operation theater.
She was gone.
I watched DongHae holding her hand. Watched her move her lips.
Watched him cry.
Watched JunSu lying on the hospital floor, shaking.
As Hyukkie ran to DongHae, I ran to JunSu.
"Su, it's going to be okay," I whispered soothingly, hugging him.
He pulled himself up and buried his head against my shoulder. I rocked him like a baby, like how I'd rocked TaeMin when he'd fallen down as a kid.
But TaeMin had never shaken this much.
It scared me.
But I still pulled him against me, closing my eyes and patting him soothingly.
He looked up at me with tears running down his cheeks.
"Don't leave me, Hyun," he whimpered. "Mianhae, but don't leave me."
I looked over at Hyuk, who nodded at me.
"I won't," I whispered. "I'm here for you."
I hoped to God that JaeHwa would be here for us too.
27.12.09
25.12.09
It's You Chapter 27
"JaeHwa, guess where I am now!" said DongHae excitedly as his image appeared on the screen.
"Umm, at home, in Korea?" I said, raising an eyebrow.
"No!" he squealed happily, then suddenly leaned to his right, disappearing out of the camera's view. What the... I thought, feeling a bit bewildered. He'd never told me he was going anywhere.
"DongHae..." I said warningly.
He popped his head back into the view, dragging EunHyuk in with him.
"Hey JaeHwa!" yelled EunHyuk happily.
"Hey HyukJae," I said, smiling. I'd taken to calling him by his real name lately, it gave a me a special feeling... like I was entitled to call them by their real names. "Where are you guys?"
"In Malaysia!" they said in unison, big grins on their faces.
"What?!" I said, shocked. Malaysia was an almost alien country to me... what the heck were they doing there?!
"We're here for the MTV Asia Awards!" squealedHyukJae EunHyuk.
"Wow, really?" I said disbelievingly. "That's great!"
"Yeah, it's really hot here..." said DongHae. "But our hotel room's fine. We're kinda trapped in here until we leave, there are so many fangirls outside. I had no idea we were so loved here."
"Don't be so big-headed, Lee DongHae," said LeeTeuk, walking past. "Hey JaeHwa."
"Hi Teukie oppa!" I replied brightly. A breeze blew in the window and I shivered slightly. Summer was ending, and the weather was getting cooler. I was only dressed in a t-shirt and shorts, sitting at the desk and missing HyunJae. I then felt a stab of guilt as I remembered that I hadn't talked to JunSu for a few weeks. Neglected... what a terrible friend I was.
"KiBum and HanKyung hyung aren't here with us though," said DongHae, looking sad.
"Why not?" I asked. "Where's KiBum? He wasn't with you in Japan either..."
"Oh, HanKyung hyung has stuff for the Olympics-"
"It's so excitinggg~" EunHyuk butted in, sticking his face right in the camera. DongHae pushed his head aside.
"- and KiBum has filming stuff, so he's stuck in Korea. It's kinda not as fun when they're not here... but we just make the best of it."
"Yeah, we make the best of it," said EunHyuk like a parrot, nodding his head.
"..."
"DongHae, what is up with your hair?" I asked. "It's too long. Get it cut."
"But I like it like this...!" protested DongHae. "Anyway, they did it for me, I didn't really choose."
"But you looked cuter with your short hair."
"Really?"
"Yeah."
"Okay, I'll cut it soon."
"What about me, JaeHwa? Do I look good?" asked EunHyuk. He started fixing his hair in front of the camera, using it like a mirror.
"I never knew you were so vain Hyukkie," said DongHae, pulling a shocked face.
"Only in front of JaeHwa," EunHyuk replied, laughing. "So what's the answer, JaeHwa? Huh?"
"You look nice Hyukjae, no worries," I said, laughing. "Better than DongHae's," I added, smiling evilly at DongHae.
"Ouch, what an insult!" said DongHae, acting hurt.
"Don't be, I'm extremely handsome," said EunHyuk.
"I think you just stole some of my handsomeness, that's why."
"But... I'm shining."
"But... you stink."
"Aishh!" EunHyuk scrunched his lips together. "I'm going to change. See you JaeHwa!" He got up and padded around the room.
"Umm, looking for something, Hyukkie?" asked DongHae, turning around to look at him.
EunHyuk put his hands on his hips, pursing his lips at DongHae. "Okay, I know you hid my clothes, now where are they, Lee DongHae?" he demanded.
"What are you on about, I didn't take your clothes!" protested DongHae. He turned back to the camera and winked at me.
"Don't think I didn't see that," said EunHyuk.
"I'll talk to you later, Jae," said DongHae, pulling an innocent face at the camera.
I laughed. "Take your time," I said.
"Saranghaeyo."
"Saranghaeyo."
The screen went blank.
Did I have a surprise for him. I couldn't wait for the term to be over.
"JaeHwa!" said JunSu happily as soon as his face appeared on the screen.
"JunSuuuu!" I said, smiling.
"I've missed you!" he said. "Even though Hyun's back, it's still lonely without you."
"Don't worry Jun, you might be seeing me sooner than you think."
"What are you on about, I'm seeing you now."
"I meant in person, stupid."
He perked up, his eyes shining. "Are you coming back?!" he yelled.
"Hmm, maybe," I said, smirking.
"Tell me, tell me!" he pleaded, looking ultra excited.
I laughed. JunSu was such a dork sometimes. "Okay, I'll tell you but don't tell HyunJae, right?"
"I promise!" he said happily. "We'll have our own little secret!"
I told him. But I didn't tell him about DongHae. I know it wasn't right not to tell one of my best friends, but I felt weird telling a guy about... well, another guy.
"I can't wait for you to come back," declared JunSu happily. "Now I won't be able to concentrate on anything else..."
"Don't be stupid, Jun," I said. "Make sure you study for your finals..."
"Aaargh I forgot about finals."
"Hey, don't ignore it because I'm coming back, ok?"
"Hmm..."
"Maybe I shouldn't have told you I was coming back..."
"No!!! Okay, okay, I was only joking! Of course finals are the biggest thing in my life right now."
"Good boy."
When I said he was a dork, I also mean to say that he could be such an idiot sometimes. But a loveable idiot all the same.
Now I really couldn't wait for term to end.
But first I had to get through my own exams.
*From now it will be from different people's point of view.
DongHae
Somewhere distant, a phone rang.
“Guys, someone’s phone is ringing…” I said, waving my arm vaguely. I was too tired to get off the couch, but the insistent ringing was annoying me. The ringtone seemed familiar… “HYUKKIE!” I yelled. “YOUR PHONE!”
The ringing stopped. Finally, peace again. I covered my face with my left arm, my right arm hanging off the couch. I was drifting off when the phone rang. Again.
That did it.
I jumped off the couch and ran to Hyuk’s room, grabbing the phone off the bed and looking at the screen. It was HyunJae. Those two talked more than JaeHwa and I did… but at least Hyukkie was happy. It was nice to see him happy.
“Yuheobsehyo?” I said, picking up.
“HyukJae…?” said HyunJae. I’d always found it funny how their names were vaguely similar… just a mispronunciation would get the wrong person’s attention. Don’t tell HanKyung hyung I was thinking of him.
“No, it’s DongHae… I’ll get Hyuk for you,” I said, making my way to the shower. I’M DESPERATE FOR SOME SLEEP. I banged the door open. The stupid boy forgot to lock the door. Again.
‘Hey, no taking pics of me while I’m in the shower, Hae!” said Hyuk, trying to cover himself up. I heard HyunJae laughing. I grinned evilly.
“I think I’ve seen enough of you, Hyukkie,” I said. “It’s a call.”
“Oh shit, it’s not my mum is it?!”
“No, it’s worse. It’s your girl.”
“Oh. Phew. Hang on, I’m coming out now.” Hyuk stepped out of the shower, wrapping a towel around himself. He took the phone from me. “Get out!” he said, pushing me out of the bathroom. He slammed the door behind me.
“Hey, be grateful I picked up, that’s the second time she’s called,” I called over my shoulder, flopping back on the couch. Peace. Lovely. I could hear Hyuk yelling "What?!" in the bathroom, but I didn't feel too worried. He was always yelling that. Well, I was always yelling that at him, so maybe it rubbed off.
I drifted off. The world faded out.
I was alone with my dreams.
"Hae!" someone shook my shoulder.
"Go away..." I said, turning on my side so my face was buried at the back of the sofa.
"Hae, wake up!"
"What is it?!"
"It's JaeHwa..."
I turned around and stared right into Hyuk's tear-stained face. What the hell was going on...?
"What is it..." I whispered.
"She... she..."
"HyukJae!" I yelled, sitting up and grabbing him by the shoulders. I shook him. Hard. I didn't mean to hurt him, but I was scared. My heart was jumping out of my chest.
"DongHae!" said SungMin, coming into the living room. He looked like he just got out of bed, which he probably just did. "Stop shaking Hyuk like that, you'll hurt him." He stopped, staring at Hyuk. "Hyukkie... what...?"
I looked back at Hyuk. He stared back at me through red eyes.
"Hyukkie..." I said. "What. Happened. To. JaeHwa?"
"What?" said Min, looking between us. "What's going on, you two?"
I ignored him. Min was easy to ignore sometimes.
Hyuk opened his mouth and closed it. He looked even more of a fish than me.
"Hyuk!" I pleaded. "You're killing me!"
"JaeHwa..." Hyuk whispered.
"Yes...?" I urged him.
"She... she got into an accident."
My brain froze over.
My heart stopped.
I could no longer feel Hyuk's shoulders between my hands.
I was no longer living.
Incredibly, my mouth was still working. But it wasn't my mouth, wasn't my voice coming out. I wasn't there. I was screaming, but no one could hear me.
"What...?" I heard the alien voice say.
"Are you serious?" yelled Min.
Hyuk nodded. A fresh tear slipped down his face. "She's unconcious. They... they're taking her to the hospital now."
"I've got to go..." said the alien inside me. I stood up shakily, and all the feeling came flooding back.
"Hae..." said Hyuk, standing up too, his arms around me.
"Let me go, Hyuk, I've got to go," I said, and tears slipped down my face. I broke free of him and ran to the door.
"No Hae, you can't!" said Min, sprinting after me and pulling me back. Damn him for being a martial arts champ.
"LET GO OF ME!" I screamed. Was that really my voice? I sounded like a girl. Damn, I was turning into HeeChul hyung. Don't tell him I said that either.
Everyone started coming out of their rooms. Was my scream really that freaky sounding...?
"What's going on?" demanded Teukie hyung, coming out of his room. KangIn hyung followed him, rubbing his eyes.
"We're trying to sleep, you three!" said Sunggie hyung, looking scary with his hair all over the place.
"What..." said Kyungie hyung when he saw us.
"Hae... Hyuk.. are you crying?" demanded Won, a concerned look on his face.
I collapsed to the ground, hands over my face. I had no more strength left. Hyuk flung himself down next to me.
"SungMin, what's going on?" said Teukie hyung.
"It's JaeHwa..." whispered SungMin. I knew he was in shock too. He loved her almost as much as I did, but in a different way. I never begrudged him that. Everyone loved her. And evreyone loved SungMin anyway. It was impossible not to.
"I can't hear you, SungMin..." said HeeChul hyung. "Speak up!"
Tears ran down Min's face. This was torturing him. I felt so bad for him. It was my problem, not his. Hyuk hugged me close and I buried my face in his shoulder.
"JaeHwa's in an accident!" Min yelled suddenly.
Hearing Min say that just made it final.
"Umm, at home, in Korea?" I said, raising an eyebrow.
"No!" he squealed happily, then suddenly leaned to his right, disappearing out of the camera's view. What the... I thought, feeling a bit bewildered. He'd never told me he was going anywhere.
"DongHae..." I said warningly.
He popped his head back into the view, dragging EunHyuk in with him.
"Hey JaeHwa!" yelled EunHyuk happily.
"Hey HyukJae," I said, smiling. I'd taken to calling him by his real name lately, it gave a me a special feeling... like I was entitled to call them by their real names. "Where are you guys?"
"In Malaysia!" they said in unison, big grins on their faces.
"What?!" I said, shocked. Malaysia was an almost alien country to me... what the heck were they doing there?!
"We're here for the MTV Asia Awards!" squealed
"Wow, really?" I said disbelievingly. "That's great!"
"Yeah, it's really hot here..." said DongHae. "But our hotel room's fine. We're kinda trapped in here until we leave, there are so many fangirls outside. I had no idea we were so loved here."
"Don't be so big-headed, Lee DongHae," said LeeTeuk, walking past. "Hey JaeHwa."
"Hi Teukie oppa!" I replied brightly. A breeze blew in the window and I shivered slightly. Summer was ending, and the weather was getting cooler. I was only dressed in a t-shirt and shorts, sitting at the desk and missing HyunJae. I then felt a stab of guilt as I remembered that I hadn't talked to JunSu for a few weeks. Neglected... what a terrible friend I was.
"KiBum and HanKyung hyung aren't here with us though," said DongHae, looking sad.
"Why not?" I asked. "Where's KiBum? He wasn't with you in Japan either..."
"Oh, HanKyung hyung has stuff for the Olympics-"
"It's so excitinggg~" EunHyuk butted in, sticking his face right in the camera. DongHae pushed his head aside.
"- and KiBum has filming stuff, so he's stuck in Korea. It's kinda not as fun when they're not here... but we just make the best of it."
"Yeah, we make the best of it," said EunHyuk like a parrot, nodding his head.
"..."
"DongHae, what is up with your hair?" I asked. "It's too long. Get it cut."
"But I like it like this...!" protested DongHae. "Anyway, they did it for me, I didn't really choose."
"But you looked cuter with your short hair."
"Really?"
"Yeah."
"Okay, I'll cut it soon."
"What about me, JaeHwa? Do I look good?" asked EunHyuk. He started fixing his hair in front of the camera, using it like a mirror.
"I never knew you were so vain Hyukkie," said DongHae, pulling a shocked face.
"Only in front of JaeHwa," EunHyuk replied, laughing. "So what's the answer, JaeHwa? Huh?"
"You look nice Hyukjae, no worries," I said, laughing. "Better than DongHae's," I added, smiling evilly at DongHae.
"Ouch, what an insult!" said DongHae, acting hurt.
"Don't be, I'm extremely handsome," said EunHyuk.
"I think you just stole some of my handsomeness, that's why."
"But... I'm shining."
"But... you stink."
"Aishh!" EunHyuk scrunched his lips together. "I'm going to change. See you JaeHwa!" He got up and padded around the room.
"Umm, looking for something, Hyukkie?" asked DongHae, turning around to look at him.
EunHyuk put his hands on his hips, pursing his lips at DongHae. "Okay, I know you hid my clothes, now where are they, Lee DongHae?" he demanded.
"What are you on about, I didn't take your clothes!" protested DongHae. He turned back to the camera and winked at me.
"Don't think I didn't see that," said EunHyuk.
"I'll talk to you later, Jae," said DongHae, pulling an innocent face at the camera.
I laughed. "Take your time," I said.
"Saranghaeyo."
"Saranghaeyo."
The screen went blank.
Did I have a surprise for him. I couldn't wait for the term to be over.
"JaeHwa!" said JunSu happily as soon as his face appeared on the screen.
"JunSuuuu!" I said, smiling.
"I've missed you!" he said. "Even though Hyun's back, it's still lonely without you."
"Don't worry Jun, you might be seeing me sooner than you think."
"What are you on about, I'm seeing you now."
"I meant in person, stupid."
He perked up, his eyes shining. "Are you coming back?!" he yelled.
"Hmm, maybe," I said, smirking.
"Tell me, tell me!" he pleaded, looking ultra excited.
I laughed. JunSu was such a dork sometimes. "Okay, I'll tell you but don't tell HyunJae, right?"
"I promise!" he said happily. "We'll have our own little secret!"
I told him. But I didn't tell him about DongHae. I know it wasn't right not to tell one of my best friends, but I felt weird telling a guy about... well, another guy.
"I can't wait for you to come back," declared JunSu happily. "Now I won't be able to concentrate on anything else..."
"Don't be stupid, Jun," I said. "Make sure you study for your finals..."
"Aaargh I forgot about finals."
"Hey, don't ignore it because I'm coming back, ok?"
"Hmm..."
"Maybe I shouldn't have told you I was coming back..."
"No!!! Okay, okay, I was only joking! Of course finals are the biggest thing in my life right now."
"Good boy."
When I said he was a dork, I also mean to say that he could be such an idiot sometimes. But a loveable idiot all the same.
Now I really couldn't wait for term to end.
But first I had to get through my own exams.
*From now it will be from different people's point of view.
DongHae
Somewhere distant, a phone rang.
“Guys, someone’s phone is ringing…” I said, waving my arm vaguely. I was too tired to get off the couch, but the insistent ringing was annoying me. The ringtone seemed familiar… “HYUKKIE!” I yelled. “YOUR PHONE!”
The ringing stopped. Finally, peace again. I covered my face with my left arm, my right arm hanging off the couch. I was drifting off when the phone rang. Again.
That did it.
I jumped off the couch and ran to Hyuk’s room, grabbing the phone off the bed and looking at the screen. It was HyunJae. Those two talked more than JaeHwa and I did… but at least Hyukkie was happy. It was nice to see him happy.
“Yuheobsehyo?” I said, picking up.
“HyukJae…?” said HyunJae. I’d always found it funny how their names were vaguely similar… just a mispronunciation would get the wrong person’s attention. Don’t tell HanKyung hyung I was thinking of him.
“No, it’s DongHae… I’ll get Hyuk for you,” I said, making my way to the shower. I’M DESPERATE FOR SOME SLEEP. I banged the door open. The stupid boy forgot to lock the door. Again.
‘Hey, no taking pics of me while I’m in the shower, Hae!” said Hyuk, trying to cover himself up. I heard HyunJae laughing. I grinned evilly.
“I think I’ve seen enough of you, Hyukkie,” I said. “It’s a call.”
“Oh shit, it’s not my mum is it?!”
“No, it’s worse. It’s your girl.”
“Oh. Phew. Hang on, I’m coming out now.” Hyuk stepped out of the shower, wrapping a towel around himself. He took the phone from me. “Get out!” he said, pushing me out of the bathroom. He slammed the door behind me.
“Hey, be grateful I picked up, that’s the second time she’s called,” I called over my shoulder, flopping back on the couch. Peace. Lovely. I could hear Hyuk yelling "What?!" in the bathroom, but I didn't feel too worried. He was always yelling that. Well, I was always yelling that at him, so maybe it rubbed off.
I drifted off. The world faded out.
I was alone with my dreams.
"Hae!" someone shook my shoulder.
"Go away..." I said, turning on my side so my face was buried at the back of the sofa.
"Hae, wake up!"
"What is it?!"
"It's JaeHwa..."
I turned around and stared right into Hyuk's tear-stained face. What the hell was going on...?
"What is it..." I whispered.
"She... she..."
"HyukJae!" I yelled, sitting up and grabbing him by the shoulders. I shook him. Hard. I didn't mean to hurt him, but I was scared. My heart was jumping out of my chest.
"DongHae!" said SungMin, coming into the living room. He looked like he just got out of bed, which he probably just did. "Stop shaking Hyuk like that, you'll hurt him." He stopped, staring at Hyuk. "Hyukkie... what...?"
I looked back at Hyuk. He stared back at me through red eyes.
"Hyukkie..." I said. "What. Happened. To. JaeHwa?"
"What?" said Min, looking between us. "What's going on, you two?"
I ignored him. Min was easy to ignore sometimes.
Hyuk opened his mouth and closed it. He looked even more of a fish than me.
"Hyuk!" I pleaded. "You're killing me!"
"JaeHwa..." Hyuk whispered.
"Yes...?" I urged him.
"She... she got into an accident."
My brain froze over.
My heart stopped.
I could no longer feel Hyuk's shoulders between my hands.
I was no longer living.
Incredibly, my mouth was still working. But it wasn't my mouth, wasn't my voice coming out. I wasn't there. I was screaming, but no one could hear me.
"What...?" I heard the alien voice say.
"Are you serious?" yelled Min.
Hyuk nodded. A fresh tear slipped down his face. "She's unconcious. They... they're taking her to the hospital now."
"I've got to go..." said the alien inside me. I stood up shakily, and all the feeling came flooding back.
"Hae..." said Hyuk, standing up too, his arms around me.
"Let me go, Hyuk, I've got to go," I said, and tears slipped down my face. I broke free of him and ran to the door.
"No Hae, you can't!" said Min, sprinting after me and pulling me back. Damn him for being a martial arts champ.
"LET GO OF ME!" I screamed. Was that really my voice? I sounded like a girl. Damn, I was turning into HeeChul hyung. Don't tell him I said that either.
Everyone started coming out of their rooms. Was my scream really that freaky sounding...?
"What's going on?" demanded Teukie hyung, coming out of his room. KangIn hyung followed him, rubbing his eyes.
"We're trying to sleep, you three!" said Sunggie hyung, looking scary with his hair all over the place.
"What..." said Kyungie hyung when he saw us.
"Hae... Hyuk.. are you crying?" demanded Won, a concerned look on his face.
I collapsed to the ground, hands over my face. I had no more strength left. Hyuk flung himself down next to me.
"SungMin, what's going on?" said Teukie hyung.
"It's JaeHwa..." whispered SungMin. I knew he was in shock too. He loved her almost as much as I did, but in a different way. I never begrudged him that. Everyone loved her. And evreyone loved SungMin anyway. It was impossible not to.
"I can't hear you, SungMin..." said HeeChul hyung. "Speak up!"
Tears ran down Min's face. This was torturing him. I felt so bad for him. It was my problem, not his. Hyuk hugged me close and I buried my face in his shoulder.
"JaeHwa's in an accident!" Min yelled suddenly.
Hearing Min say that just made it final.
21.12.09
It's You Chapter 26
"What time's our flight, KiBum hyung?" asked RyeoWook.
Manager KiBum looked at his watch. "9pm. We'll have to leave by 7."
DongHae turned to me, looking anguished. "Can JaeHwa.... sshi and HyunJae sshi come to the airport with us?" he asked hopefully.
"I don't think so," said KiBum, shaking his head. "There'll be no one to take them back and their parents are waiting for them."
The others lapsed into crestfallen silence.
"I don't want to leave Japan," said SungMin quietly. KiBum got up and left the room. Once the door closed, SungMin plonked himself beside me on the bed and draped his arms around me. "We don't want to leave you again."
HeeChul draped an arm over HyunJae's shoulder. "Yeah. I mean, I can totally remember what happened the last time we... I mean, you left us." He looked at HyunJae. "And you're pretty fun to be around."
"Chullie hyung, get off her or EunHyuk will kill you," said SiWon jokingly, glancing at EunHyuk.
We all fell silent, remembering the time when EunHyuk had attacked SiWon.
"SiWon... about that time... well, I'm sorry," said EunHyuk suddenly, breaking the silence. SiWon patted him on the arm.
"That's okay, hyung, I forgave you a long time ago," he said, smiling. He turned to HyunJae. "Anyway, you two are probably more perfectly matched than me. You're cute together... after DongHae and JaeHwa anyway."
"Aww, thanks SiWon oppa," said HyunJae with a smile. "But I totally disagree with being second after JaeHwa and DongHae," she added, laughing.
"Uh oh, couple fight!" said YeSung, rolling off the other bed and covering his head with his hands.
"Don't be such a dork, YeSung," said KangIn, as EunHyuk jumped off the bed too and joined him on the floor. Everyone burst out laughing.
"Hey, you're supposed to be backing me up!" said HyunJae, smacking her forehead. EunHyuk turned on his back and looked up at her.
"I don't like fighting..." he said. "Especially with DongHae."
"You're such a wuss, Hyukkie."
"Hey!"
"Don't pick on Hyukkie like that!"
"Weren't you guys arguing earlier?"
"That's our problem!"
"Don't be rude, Lee DongHae."
"Shut up!"
"Don't think you're not included, Lee HyukJae."
"Guys, I've got a headache..."
"Shut up Lee SungMin."
"Hey, I'll get my nunchucks out if you don't shut up soon."
"Don't be stupid, you left them back in Korea."
"What are you, stupid? You're in Japan, land of the ninja."
"You'll still have to go and buy them."
"Actually, I've got a nunchuck in my bag..."
"HanKyung! How'd you get that past customs?"
"I said it was fake..."
"And what were you thinking of doing with them...?"
"Attacking some crazy fangirls?"
"No...!"
"Look at him, you've scared the hell out of him, Kim HeeChul."
I had enough.
"Guys, SHUT UP!" I yelled over the voices.
NO-one took any notice.
I looked over at the other bed, where HyunJae was laughing her head off. She was obviously enjoying herself. I sighed. Super Junior seriously didn't know when to shut up sometimes.
"Oh my God, you guys are so annoying."
"Don't use the Lords name in vain, HyukJae!"
"SiWon, why are you even a singer... you should be a priest."
"Thought of it..."
"No! You're not leaving Super Junior!"
"Don't be stupid RyeoWook, as if I'd leave you guys."
"Just making sure."
"None of us will ever leave Super Junior, right?"
"Right!"
"Of course!"
"SuJu forever!"
"Wooot!"
"Are you guys done yet?" asked HyunJae. "We're running out of time..."
Everyone turned to her. "Sorry HyunJae sshi," said LeeTeuk. "Sometimes we get too caught up when two people start arguing... everyone just joins in."
"We noticed," I replied with a laugh. DongHae plonked himself next to me on the bed and put his arms around my neck. He rested his head on my shoulder.
"Aaawwww," said everyone.
He burst out laughing. I started laughing too.
"And that's the reaction that fangirls have when they see you!" said HyunJae, laughing with me.
"But... they're so cute!" said SungMin, a happy smile on his face. "I feel like hugging someone now," he added, and dragged KyuHyun towards him.
"Aww, hyunggg," said KyuHyun, but he was grinning.
I tilted my head backwards so my head was on DongHae's shoulder. He took his head of my shoulder so he could look at me properly.
"Give her a kiss, DongHae," said YeSung with a grin and a raised eyebrow.
"Shut up hyung," said DongHae, glaring at him. "Would you kiss KangIn if I asked you too?"
"I'm not in love with KangIn, so there's a difference."
"What did you say?!" KangIn stormed up to YeSung and raised his hand like he was going to hit YeSung.
"SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHaeYo KangIn...!!!!!" yelled YeSung, squeezing his eyes shut and curling into a ball on the bed.
Everyone burst out laughing. "Good boy, hyung," said KangIn, patting Yesung on the head.
During all the commotion DongHae brushed his nose against my cheek.
"I wish I didn't have to leave you again," he muttered, and I could feel his breath against my neck.
"Nevermind, webcam's fine as well," I whispered back.
"Don't think I can't see what you two are doing," said HeeChul, raising an eyebrow.
DongHae untangled his arms and threw a pillow at him.
---
"Right, everyone packed?" asked KiBum.
I sighed, standing outside my hotel room with my bags at my side, while HyunJae closed the door slowly. DongHae and LeeTeuk stood directly across from us, slumped against the wall. Well, DongHae was. LeeTeuk was trying to be optimistic, but his smiles were too sad.
"Wait HyunJae," I said, pushing the door back open. "I... uh... think I forgot something."
I stuck the keycard back in the slot and stared around the room. I wondered if DongHae was having the same idea as me.
I turned as the door opened behind me. There he was. I smiled, head cocked to one side, savouring this last look of him. Tousled hair, sneakers, I took a mental picture of him and stored it in my memory. He dropped his bag and came towards me, pulling me to him and hugging me. I rested my head on his shoulder, closing my eyes. It felt... nice. Peaceful. I could have stayed like that forever.
After a few seconds we broke apart. "Can't be too long, KiBum hyung wants to leave soon," said DongHae, sighing a little.
"I wish time would stop now," I said, looking down at the floor.
"Do you want to stay 18 forever?" asked DongHae.
"If it means being with you... then yes."
"Then join me in life of the undead," he said, very seriously, but his mouth twitched, giving him away.
"You wish you were," I said, laughing.
He wrapped his arms around me again. He leaned forward for a kiss but I put a finger over his lips.
"Only if you promise not to bite," I said, smiling. He laughed.
"Don't worry, I'd never hurt you," he said, eyes sparkling.
"You did before," I said. "And we were saying goodbye then too."
"Geez, did you have to bring that up?"
"Yes."
"Fine, I'm really sorry. I'll make it up to you. Here." He kissed me softly on the forehead.
"That all?"
"A bit demanding today, are we?"
"God knows the next time I see you, don't I deserve more?"
"Aish, don't remind me."
"DongHae!" yelled LeeTeuk from outside. "Are you done looking?"
"What did you tell them?" I asked.
"I told them I'll help you look for whatever you lost," he said, smiling.
"Is EunHyuk 'helping' HyunJae?"
"No, HyunJae's helping EunHyuk."
We both laughed silently.
"We're leaving now!" yelled LeeTeuk.
"Aish, we spend too much time talking," sad DongHae, with a -.- expression.
I laughed. He looked at me and then put his hand in my hair, running it down until it rested on my neck. I cocked my head to one side, then flung my arms around him and kissed him quickly. He pulled my head closer, all pretense of gentleness gone. His mouth was slightly open...
"DONGHAE! JAEHWA!" yelled Leeteuk.
We broke off, my heart beating wildly. "What a moment spoiler," grumbled DongHae. He held my hand as we walked slowly to the door. Suddenly he turned and kissed me gently on the lips.
"Nan neoreul saranghae," he said, the opened the door. I squeezed his hand quickly to let him know that I loved him too.
As we walked out, our hands let go.
---
"Hello girls," my dad said happily, as he gave me a hug. He held me at arms length. "You both look wiped out."
"So what did you guys do?" asked my mother as we got into the car.
HyunJae and I looked at each other. I instantly flashed back to going out with SuJu, meeting DongHae beside the pool, sneaking out to the beach, hanging out with SuJu in Leeteuk's room, that last kiss.
"Nothing much really. They were too tired," I finally said. "We just went out... like tourists, really."
"Well, we've done that," replied my mother, smiling. "But it was a new experience for you two. Living like superstars."
"Oh yeah," HyunJae and I said together.
We glanced at each other and burst out laughing.
Manager KiBum looked at his watch. "9pm. We'll have to leave by 7."
DongHae turned to me, looking anguished. "Can JaeHwa.... sshi and HyunJae sshi come to the airport with us?" he asked hopefully.
"I don't think so," said KiBum, shaking his head. "There'll be no one to take them back and their parents are waiting for them."
The others lapsed into crestfallen silence.
"I don't want to leave Japan," said SungMin quietly. KiBum got up and left the room. Once the door closed, SungMin plonked himself beside me on the bed and draped his arms around me. "We don't want to leave you again."
HeeChul draped an arm over HyunJae's shoulder. "Yeah. I mean, I can totally remember what happened the last time we... I mean, you left us." He looked at HyunJae. "And you're pretty fun to be around."
"Chullie hyung, get off her or EunHyuk will kill you," said SiWon jokingly, glancing at EunHyuk.
We all fell silent, remembering the time when EunHyuk had attacked SiWon.
"SiWon... about that time... well, I'm sorry," said EunHyuk suddenly, breaking the silence. SiWon patted him on the arm.
"That's okay, hyung, I forgave you a long time ago," he said, smiling. He turned to HyunJae. "Anyway, you two are probably more perfectly matched than me. You're cute together... after DongHae and JaeHwa anyway."
"Aww, thanks SiWon oppa," said HyunJae with a smile. "But I totally disagree with being second after JaeHwa and DongHae," she added, laughing.
"Uh oh, couple fight!" said YeSung, rolling off the other bed and covering his head with his hands.
"Don't be such a dork, YeSung," said KangIn, as EunHyuk jumped off the bed too and joined him on the floor. Everyone burst out laughing.
"Hey, you're supposed to be backing me up!" said HyunJae, smacking her forehead. EunHyuk turned on his back and looked up at her.
"I don't like fighting..." he said. "Especially with DongHae."
"You're such a wuss, Hyukkie."
"Hey!"
"Don't pick on Hyukkie like that!"
"Weren't you guys arguing earlier?"
"That's our problem!"
"Don't be rude, Lee DongHae."
"Shut up!"
"Don't think you're not included, Lee HyukJae."
"Guys, I've got a headache..."
"Shut up Lee SungMin."
"Hey, I'll get my nunchucks out if you don't shut up soon."
"Don't be stupid, you left them back in Korea."
"What are you, stupid? You're in Japan, land of the ninja."
"You'll still have to go and buy them."
"Actually, I've got a nunchuck in my bag..."
"HanKyung! How'd you get that past customs?"
"I said it was fake..."
"And what were you thinking of doing with them...?"
"Attacking some crazy fangirls?"
"No...!"
"Look at him, you've scared the hell out of him, Kim HeeChul."
I had enough.
"Guys, SHUT UP!" I yelled over the voices.
NO-one took any notice.
I looked over at the other bed, where HyunJae was laughing her head off. She was obviously enjoying herself. I sighed. Super Junior seriously didn't know when to shut up sometimes.
"Oh my God, you guys are so annoying."
"Don't use the Lords name in vain, HyukJae!"
"SiWon, why are you even a singer... you should be a priest."
"Thought of it..."
"No! You're not leaving Super Junior!"
"Don't be stupid RyeoWook, as if I'd leave you guys."
"Just making sure."
"None of us will ever leave Super Junior, right?"
"Right!"
"Of course!"
"SuJu forever!"
"Wooot!"
"Are you guys done yet?" asked HyunJae. "We're running out of time..."
Everyone turned to her. "Sorry HyunJae sshi," said LeeTeuk. "Sometimes we get too caught up when two people start arguing... everyone just joins in."
"We noticed," I replied with a laugh. DongHae plonked himself next to me on the bed and put his arms around my neck. He rested his head on my shoulder.
"Aaawwww," said everyone.
He burst out laughing. I started laughing too.
"And that's the reaction that fangirls have when they see you!" said HyunJae, laughing with me.
"But... they're so cute!" said SungMin, a happy smile on his face. "I feel like hugging someone now," he added, and dragged KyuHyun towards him.
"Aww, hyunggg," said KyuHyun, but he was grinning.
I tilted my head backwards so my head was on DongHae's shoulder. He took his head of my shoulder so he could look at me properly.
"Give her a kiss, DongHae," said YeSung with a grin and a raised eyebrow.
"Shut up hyung," said DongHae, glaring at him. "Would you kiss KangIn if I asked you too?"
"I'm not in love with KangIn, so there's a difference."
"What did you say?!" KangIn stormed up to YeSung and raised his hand like he was going to hit YeSung.
"SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHae SarangHaeYo KangIn...!!!!!" yelled YeSung, squeezing his eyes shut and curling into a ball on the bed.
Everyone burst out laughing. "Good boy, hyung," said KangIn, patting Yesung on the head.
During all the commotion DongHae brushed his nose against my cheek.
"I wish I didn't have to leave you again," he muttered, and I could feel his breath against my neck.
"Nevermind, webcam's fine as well," I whispered back.
"Don't think I can't see what you two are doing," said HeeChul, raising an eyebrow.
DongHae untangled his arms and threw a pillow at him.
---
"Right, everyone packed?" asked KiBum.
I sighed, standing outside my hotel room with my bags at my side, while HyunJae closed the door slowly. DongHae and LeeTeuk stood directly across from us, slumped against the wall. Well, DongHae was. LeeTeuk was trying to be optimistic, but his smiles were too sad.
"Wait HyunJae," I said, pushing the door back open. "I... uh... think I forgot something."
I stuck the keycard back in the slot and stared around the room. I wondered if DongHae was having the same idea as me.
I turned as the door opened behind me. There he was. I smiled, head cocked to one side, savouring this last look of him. Tousled hair, sneakers, I took a mental picture of him and stored it in my memory. He dropped his bag and came towards me, pulling me to him and hugging me. I rested my head on his shoulder, closing my eyes. It felt... nice. Peaceful. I could have stayed like that forever.
After a few seconds we broke apart. "Can't be too long, KiBum hyung wants to leave soon," said DongHae, sighing a little.
"I wish time would stop now," I said, looking down at the floor.
"Do you want to stay 18 forever?" asked DongHae.
"If it means being with you... then yes."
"Then join me in life of the undead," he said, very seriously, but his mouth twitched, giving him away.
"You wish you were," I said, laughing.
He wrapped his arms around me again. He leaned forward for a kiss but I put a finger over his lips.
"Only if you promise not to bite," I said, smiling. He laughed.
"Don't worry, I'd never hurt you," he said, eyes sparkling.
"You did before," I said. "And we were saying goodbye then too."
"Geez, did you have to bring that up?"
"Yes."
"Fine, I'm really sorry. I'll make it up to you. Here." He kissed me softly on the forehead.
"That all?"
"A bit demanding today, are we?"
"God knows the next time I see you, don't I deserve more?"
"Aish, don't remind me."
"DongHae!" yelled LeeTeuk from outside. "Are you done looking?"
"What did you tell them?" I asked.
"I told them I'll help you look for whatever you lost," he said, smiling.
"Is EunHyuk 'helping' HyunJae?"
"No, HyunJae's helping EunHyuk."
We both laughed silently.
"We're leaving now!" yelled LeeTeuk.
"Aish, we spend too much time talking," sad DongHae, with a -.- expression.
I laughed. He looked at me and then put his hand in my hair, running it down until it rested on my neck. I cocked my head to one side, then flung my arms around him and kissed him quickly. He pulled my head closer, all pretense of gentleness gone. His mouth was slightly open...
"DONGHAE! JAEHWA!" yelled Leeteuk.
We broke off, my heart beating wildly. "What a moment spoiler," grumbled DongHae. He held my hand as we walked slowly to the door. Suddenly he turned and kissed me gently on the lips.
"Nan neoreul saranghae," he said, the opened the door. I squeezed his hand quickly to let him know that I loved him too.
As we walked out, our hands let go.
---
"Hello girls," my dad said happily, as he gave me a hug. He held me at arms length. "You both look wiped out."
"So what did you guys do?" asked my mother as we got into the car.
HyunJae and I looked at each other. I instantly flashed back to going out with SuJu, meeting DongHae beside the pool, sneaking out to the beach, hanging out with SuJu in Leeteuk's room, that last kiss.
"Nothing much really. They were too tired," I finally said. "We just went out... like tourists, really."
"Well, we've done that," replied my mother, smiling. "But it was a new experience for you two. Living like superstars."
"Oh yeah," HyunJae and I said together.
We glanced at each other and burst out laughing.
20.12.09
It's You Chapter 25
When I got back to the room, HyunJae was asleep. I took a quick shower to get the sand off and then climbed quietly into bed. I was exhausted. But it was fun. We'd both fallen asleep on the bus, and when I woke up when we were halfway back I took a picture of him sleeping. I couldn't resist. He was adorable.
I smiled, thinking about DongHae. I wondered if he was thinking about me.
I shut my eyes and immediately drifted off.
---
"Wake up, JaeHwa!" yelled HyunJae what felt like a minute later. Something soft hit me. I groaned and rolled over.
"Five more minutes..." I mumbled, covering my head with my pillow. HyunJae tore the pillow off. She gasped.
"JaeHwa, you've got freaking sand all over your bed!" she exclaimed. "You're going to make the cleaners cry."
"That's their job, nothing to cry about," I replied, rubbing my eyes. I sat up. "Okay, I'm awake now. What time is it?"
"It's 8am and time for breakfast," said HyunJae. She pulled some clothes out of my suitcase for me. "Hurry up and get dressed."
---
Everyone stared at us when we entered the dining room. "Something smells nice," said HyunJae, smiling as she EunHyuk came up to us. They glanced at each other, then looked away, smiling.
"Hey, I won't disturb you two lovebirds," I said, sitting down at the Super Junior table, next to KyuHyun and opposite DongHae.
"Morning JaeHwa sshi," said KyuHyun happily, stuffing a sausage in his mouth.
"Don't eat so fast, Kyu, you'll choke yourself," said DongHae, shaking his head.
"I haven't eaten in 12 hours, I'm hungry," replied KyuHyun. He swallowed and nudged me. "Aren't you going to eat JaeHwa?" he asked.
"Yeah, come with me and get some food, JaeHwa," said DongHae, inclining his head towards the buffet table. I got up obediently and followed him, not before catching the small smiles on everyone's faces.
"Everyone seems happy, huh?" remarked DongHae, as we both ordered an omelette. I glanced back at the table and caught them all turning around from where they had been staring at us.
I laughed. "Very happy."
"If only they knew what Hyukkie and HyunJae get up to," he said, smiling.
"Or us," I said, as the chef places the omelette on my plate.
"What's a little kiss every now and then," he said mischeviously, following me to the fruit section.
"DongHae!" I hissed, glaring at him.
"I know, I know, we're not getting up to anything today," he said. "But just so you know, last night was the best four hours I've ever had in my life. Just being with you makes me happy."
I smiled back at him. "Me too."
"Don't let me interrupt," said a voice behind me. I turned and found LeeTeuk behind me. He winked at me. "Did you think I didn't know that you two left last night?" he asked. "I was waiting for DongHae to come back, and I saw you leaving your room, JaeHwa, so don't think you can fool me."
"Hyung, we didn't do anything, I swear. We just - " DongHae started, but LeeTeuk cut him off.
"It's ok, DongHae, just don't get caught. And you two don't do anything stupid right?"
"Don't worry, we won't, JaeHwa won't let me," said DongHae, sitcking out his lower lip.
"Well, nice to know she has more common sense than you," teased LeeTeuk, helping himself to some fruits.
"Hey!" said DongHae, pouting more.
"Thanks Teukie oppa," I said, smiling.
He patted me on the shoulder. "He missed you a lot, I'm just happy that he's happy again. Thank you, JaeHwa." He headed back to the table. I looked up at DongHae.
"You didn't tell me you went all depressed over me," I said seriously.
"Well, if you were, you think I wouldn't be?" he replied, equally serious.
I was about to reply when a camera flashed somewhere to my right. I turned, and spied a security guard bringing down a photographer outside the dining room glass. I turned back to DongHae. "I forgot about the paparazzi," I said, feeling scared. "What if they caught us last night?"
"Don't worry, there weren't any flashes," said DongHae evenly. "Don't look all worried like that, I feel like giving you a hug. You're not making it easy for me, JaeHwa."
"Don't look at me then," I said jokingly.
"Can't," he replied seriously. "You're shining with brilliant light. It's impossible not to look at you." He started back towards the table. I sat down opposite him.
"Seriously, what if my face gets back on the tabloids? The Japanese fans would come after me this time, and I heard their pretty crazy too," I said, as the thought came into my head. No way could I go through that again.
"Oh shit, I forgot about that," said DongHae, staring at me.
KyuHyun turned towards me. "They won't hurt you, JaeHwa, not if I give the order not to," he said, striking a heroic pose. I laughed.
"Kyu, what the hell are you doing?" asked HanKyung, staring at him.
"If he wants to play Superman, let him play Superman, Kyungie" said HeeChul, grinning at KyuHyun.
"He looks more like a Teletubby," remarked SungMin with an innocent smile on his face.
"Kyu, cut it out, everyone's staring at you," said KangIn, swiping him lightly on the back. KyuHyun dropped his pose, looking downcast.
"Aww KyuHyun oppa, there'll still be other poses for you," I said, patting him on the back. DongHae kicked me under the table. I looked back at him. "What's wrong?" I asked, worried at his serious face. Was he jealous of Kyu...?
"I..." he started. "I won't let anyone hurt you again," he said, very quietly.
KyuHyun squeezed my hand, giving me a tentative smile. One that said "Neither will I. And he really loves you."
I stared back at DongHae.
Breakfast passed in silence.
---
"This place is beautiful..." said YeSung as we entered the Hamarikyu Garden. "Just like my voice."
"YeSung, if your head gets any bigger you won't be able to get back in the bus," said HeeChul.
"Don't fight, you two," said SiWon, but he was smiling. "This place is so peaceful, so beautiful."
"Perfect place for a martial arts movie," said SungMin, looking excited. "How about it, hyung?" he asked, tugging on Hankyung's sleeve. He looked like a kid in the candy shop.
"SungMin, you always do the same moves over and over anyway," said ShinDong.
SungMin pouted. "But if Kyungie hyung fights me, then I might pull out something else," he said.
"I won't fight you, SungMin, I wouldn't want to hurt you," said HanKyung in his soft voice.
"Aww, I love you Kyungie hyung," said SungMin, hugging HanKyung.
I looked at HyunJae, who looked positively delighted at being a first hand witness to SuJu love.
"Stop giving fan-service, SungMin," said DongHae, his arms around EunHyuk. He looked at me. "I'm really only doing this because I need a hug real bad... and unfortunately you can't give me one," he said teasingly.
I gave a mock stuck-up pose. "Wouldn't want the fan-girls to break the barriers and trample over me," I said, raising my eyebrows at him.
"Maybe I'd let them because you won't give me a hug."
"Hmph! You're definately not getting one now."
"Sopt flirting you two, you're in public," said EunHyuk, but he was smiling.
"You two are so cute," said RyeoWook. He smiled tentatively at HyunJae. "Hello, HyunJae sshi."
"Geez, Wookie, she looks big, but she's not going to eat you," said EunHyuk.
HyunJae narrowed her eyes at him. "Don't expect a hug from me either," she said, pouting.
"I'll shut up now," said EunHyuk, but his eyes sparkled at her.
"Isn't it great how much power we have over them?" I said, laughing.
"I can hear you, JaeHwa," said DongHae from behind. "And you know this is killing me."
"What, not being able to come near me?"
"No, being draped over Hyukkie, who smells like chlorine."
"Hey!"
"I guess you didn't shower after you went swimming huh?"
"..."
"When did you go swimming anyway?"
I looked at HyunJae. She caught EunHyuk's eye and turned away, smiling.
"You don't need to know," said EunHyuk, satisfied.
"Come on...."
"You didn't tell me where you went, so we're even."
"You suck, Lee HyukJae."
"I love you Lee DongHae."
"Stop with the fan-service already."
"You know you like it."
"Do they ever shut up?" SungMin asked LeeTeuk.
"You tell me, you're the same age as them," replied LeeTeuk, with a smile and a shake of his head.
I laughed and followed HyunJae to the pavillion overlooking the lake.
---
"Swimming!" yelled HeeChul as soon as we reached the hotel.
"I'm going to rest in my room," said KiBum, their manager. "Looking after you people is like looking after pets."
"And very cute pets we are," said KangIn with a smile. KiBum entered his room and closed the door.
"Hurry up and grab your stuff guys," ordered LeeTeuk. "I want everyone down there, and I mean everyone, including you, DongHae, JaeHwa, EunHyuk, HyunJae. I'm not leaving you alone even for a minute."
"Aww, Teukie hyung," protested EunHyuk, but HyunJae wrapped her arms around his waist.
"Don't worry, swimming sounds fun," she said, smiling.
"Oh, fine."
"Thank God you're here, HyunJae, or he'll never do anything," said LeeTeuk gratefully.
"Yes I will!"
"Shut up and get your stuff."
"See you guys in 5."
"Make sure you're there, okay DongHae?"
"SiWon, bring the beachball!"
"HeeChul hyung, don't forget the lilo!"
"The what?"
"The floating chair thingie!"
"Oh right, since when was it called a lilo?"
"Just bring it, okay?"
I entered our room and closed the door.
"Grateful you don't wear a bikini?" asked HyunJae, smiling.
"Very," I said, grabbing my swimsuit and a pair of board shorts. I stepped into the bathroom to change, then slipped an oversized t-shirt over myself.
"Ready?" asked HyunJae. We stepped back out and closed the door.
---
"Look out! Canonball!" yelled KangIn as he took a running jump into the pool. HyunJae and I were splashed as we entered the area. I got towels for us while she peeled off her wet t-shirt and dived into the pool. I stood by for a while until DongHae climbed out and ran over to me. He was shirtless.
I couldn't stop myself from smiling when I saw him.
"Coming in?" he asked when he came up to me.
"Okay, you go in first," I said, feeling a bit shy at thought of pulling of my t-shirt in front of him.
"No, it's okay, I'll wait," he said, not getting what I was hinting at.
I sighed, turned around, and pulled my t-shirt over my head. "If you think the shorts are coming off too, you're dead wrong," I said, smirking. He pulled me to the pools' edge.
"Doesn't matter, you're beautiful either way." As we both jumped in and sank to the bottom, he pulled me to him and gave me a quick kiss. I gasped and a whole lot of water flowed into my mouth. I kicked myself up to the surface, coughing. He stood in the water and carried me in both arms.
"I'm never opening my mouth underwater again," I said, still coughing. He laughed.
"You know that SungMin gave oxygen to EunHyuk on Exploration of the Human Body before, right?"
"Mouth to mouth?"
"Yeah."
"That's slightly disturbing."
He laughed. "I knew you would say that."
Our fingers linked underwater.
I smiled, thinking about DongHae. I wondered if he was thinking about me.
I shut my eyes and immediately drifted off.
---
"Wake up, JaeHwa!" yelled HyunJae what felt like a minute later. Something soft hit me. I groaned and rolled over.
"Five more minutes..." I mumbled, covering my head with my pillow. HyunJae tore the pillow off. She gasped.
"JaeHwa, you've got freaking sand all over your bed!" she exclaimed. "You're going to make the cleaners cry."
"That's their job, nothing to cry about," I replied, rubbing my eyes. I sat up. "Okay, I'm awake now. What time is it?"
"It's 8am and time for breakfast," said HyunJae. She pulled some clothes out of my suitcase for me. "Hurry up and get dressed."
---
Everyone stared at us when we entered the dining room. "Something smells nice," said HyunJae, smiling as she EunHyuk came up to us. They glanced at each other, then looked away, smiling.
"Hey, I won't disturb you two lovebirds," I said, sitting down at the Super Junior table, next to KyuHyun and opposite DongHae.
"Morning JaeHwa sshi," said KyuHyun happily, stuffing a sausage in his mouth.
"Don't eat so fast, Kyu, you'll choke yourself," said DongHae, shaking his head.
"I haven't eaten in 12 hours, I'm hungry," replied KyuHyun. He swallowed and nudged me. "Aren't you going to eat JaeHwa?" he asked.
"Yeah, come with me and get some food, JaeHwa," said DongHae, inclining his head towards the buffet table. I got up obediently and followed him, not before catching the small smiles on everyone's faces.
"Everyone seems happy, huh?" remarked DongHae, as we both ordered an omelette. I glanced back at the table and caught them all turning around from where they had been staring at us.
I laughed. "Very happy."
"If only they knew what Hyukkie and HyunJae get up to," he said, smiling.
"Or us," I said, as the chef places the omelette on my plate.
"What's a little kiss every now and then," he said mischeviously, following me to the fruit section.
"DongHae!" I hissed, glaring at him.
"I know, I know, we're not getting up to anything today," he said. "But just so you know, last night was the best four hours I've ever had in my life. Just being with you makes me happy."
I smiled back at him. "Me too."
"Don't let me interrupt," said a voice behind me. I turned and found LeeTeuk behind me. He winked at me. "Did you think I didn't know that you two left last night?" he asked. "I was waiting for DongHae to come back, and I saw you leaving your room, JaeHwa, so don't think you can fool me."
"Hyung, we didn't do anything, I swear. We just - " DongHae started, but LeeTeuk cut him off.
"It's ok, DongHae, just don't get caught. And you two don't do anything stupid right?"
"Don't worry, we won't, JaeHwa won't let me," said DongHae, sitcking out his lower lip.
"Well, nice to know she has more common sense than you," teased LeeTeuk, helping himself to some fruits.
"Hey!" said DongHae, pouting more.
"Thanks Teukie oppa," I said, smiling.
He patted me on the shoulder. "He missed you a lot, I'm just happy that he's happy again. Thank you, JaeHwa." He headed back to the table. I looked up at DongHae.
"You didn't tell me you went all depressed over me," I said seriously.
"Well, if you were, you think I wouldn't be?" he replied, equally serious.
I was about to reply when a camera flashed somewhere to my right. I turned, and spied a security guard bringing down a photographer outside the dining room glass. I turned back to DongHae. "I forgot about the paparazzi," I said, feeling scared. "What if they caught us last night?"
"Don't worry, there weren't any flashes," said DongHae evenly. "Don't look all worried like that, I feel like giving you a hug. You're not making it easy for me, JaeHwa."
"Don't look at me then," I said jokingly.
"Can't," he replied seriously. "You're shining with brilliant light. It's impossible not to look at you." He started back towards the table. I sat down opposite him.
"Seriously, what if my face gets back on the tabloids? The Japanese fans would come after me this time, and I heard their pretty crazy too," I said, as the thought came into my head. No way could I go through that again.
"Oh shit, I forgot about that," said DongHae, staring at me.
KyuHyun turned towards me. "They won't hurt you, JaeHwa, not if I give the order not to," he said, striking a heroic pose. I laughed.
"Kyu, what the hell are you doing?" asked HanKyung, staring at him.
"If he wants to play Superman, let him play Superman, Kyungie" said HeeChul, grinning at KyuHyun.
"He looks more like a Teletubby," remarked SungMin with an innocent smile on his face.
"Kyu, cut it out, everyone's staring at you," said KangIn, swiping him lightly on the back. KyuHyun dropped his pose, looking downcast.
"Aww KyuHyun oppa, there'll still be other poses for you," I said, patting him on the back. DongHae kicked me under the table. I looked back at him. "What's wrong?" I asked, worried at his serious face. Was he jealous of Kyu...?
"I..." he started. "I won't let anyone hurt you again," he said, very quietly.
KyuHyun squeezed my hand, giving me a tentative smile. One that said "Neither will I. And he really loves you."
I stared back at DongHae.
Breakfast passed in silence.
---
"This place is beautiful..." said YeSung as we entered the Hamarikyu Garden. "Just like my voice."
"YeSung, if your head gets any bigger you won't be able to get back in the bus," said HeeChul.
"Don't fight, you two," said SiWon, but he was smiling. "This place is so peaceful, so beautiful."
"Perfect place for a martial arts movie," said SungMin, looking excited. "How about it, hyung?" he asked, tugging on Hankyung's sleeve. He looked like a kid in the candy shop.
"SungMin, you always do the same moves over and over anyway," said ShinDong.
SungMin pouted. "But if Kyungie hyung fights me, then I might pull out something else," he said.
"I won't fight you, SungMin, I wouldn't want to hurt you," said HanKyung in his soft voice.
"Aww, I love you Kyungie hyung," said SungMin, hugging HanKyung.
I looked at HyunJae, who looked positively delighted at being a first hand witness to SuJu love.
"Stop giving fan-service, SungMin," said DongHae, his arms around EunHyuk. He looked at me. "I'm really only doing this because I need a hug real bad... and unfortunately you can't give me one," he said teasingly.
I gave a mock stuck-up pose. "Wouldn't want the fan-girls to break the barriers and trample over me," I said, raising my eyebrows at him.
"Maybe I'd let them because you won't give me a hug."
"Hmph! You're definately not getting one now."
"Sopt flirting you two, you're in public," said EunHyuk, but he was smiling.
"You two are so cute," said RyeoWook. He smiled tentatively at HyunJae. "Hello, HyunJae sshi."
"Geez, Wookie, she looks big, but she's not going to eat you," said EunHyuk.
HyunJae narrowed her eyes at him. "Don't expect a hug from me either," she said, pouting.
"I'll shut up now," said EunHyuk, but his eyes sparkled at her.
"Isn't it great how much power we have over them?" I said, laughing.
"I can hear you, JaeHwa," said DongHae from behind. "And you know this is killing me."
"What, not being able to come near me?"
"No, being draped over Hyukkie, who smells like chlorine."
"Hey!"
"I guess you didn't shower after you went swimming huh?"
"..."
"When did you go swimming anyway?"
I looked at HyunJae. She caught EunHyuk's eye and turned away, smiling.
"You don't need to know," said EunHyuk, satisfied.
"Come on...."
"You didn't tell me where you went, so we're even."
"You suck, Lee HyukJae."
"I love you Lee DongHae."
"Stop with the fan-service already."
"You know you like it."
"Do they ever shut up?" SungMin asked LeeTeuk.
"You tell me, you're the same age as them," replied LeeTeuk, with a smile and a shake of his head.
I laughed and followed HyunJae to the pavillion overlooking the lake.
---
"Swimming!" yelled HeeChul as soon as we reached the hotel.
"I'm going to rest in my room," said KiBum, their manager. "Looking after you people is like looking after pets."
"And very cute pets we are," said KangIn with a smile. KiBum entered his room and closed the door.
"Hurry up and grab your stuff guys," ordered LeeTeuk. "I want everyone down there, and I mean everyone, including you, DongHae, JaeHwa, EunHyuk, HyunJae. I'm not leaving you alone even for a minute."
"Aww, Teukie hyung," protested EunHyuk, but HyunJae wrapped her arms around his waist.
"Don't worry, swimming sounds fun," she said, smiling.
"Oh, fine."
"Thank God you're here, HyunJae, or he'll never do anything," said LeeTeuk gratefully.
"Yes I will!"
"Shut up and get your stuff."
"See you guys in 5."
"Make sure you're there, okay DongHae?"
"SiWon, bring the beachball!"
"HeeChul hyung, don't forget the lilo!"
"The what?"
"The floating chair thingie!"
"Oh right, since when was it called a lilo?"
"Just bring it, okay?"
I entered our room and closed the door.
"Grateful you don't wear a bikini?" asked HyunJae, smiling.
"Very," I said, grabbing my swimsuit and a pair of board shorts. I stepped into the bathroom to change, then slipped an oversized t-shirt over myself.
"Ready?" asked HyunJae. We stepped back out and closed the door.
---
"Look out! Canonball!" yelled KangIn as he took a running jump into the pool. HyunJae and I were splashed as we entered the area. I got towels for us while she peeled off her wet t-shirt and dived into the pool. I stood by for a while until DongHae climbed out and ran over to me. He was shirtless.
I couldn't stop myself from smiling when I saw him.
"Coming in?" he asked when he came up to me.
"Okay, you go in first," I said, feeling a bit shy at thought of pulling of my t-shirt in front of him.
"No, it's okay, I'll wait," he said, not getting what I was hinting at.
I sighed, turned around, and pulled my t-shirt over my head. "If you think the shorts are coming off too, you're dead wrong," I said, smirking. He pulled me to the pools' edge.
"Doesn't matter, you're beautiful either way." As we both jumped in and sank to the bottom, he pulled me to him and gave me a quick kiss. I gasped and a whole lot of water flowed into my mouth. I kicked myself up to the surface, coughing. He stood in the water and carried me in both arms.
"I'm never opening my mouth underwater again," I said, still coughing. He laughed.
"You know that SungMin gave oxygen to EunHyuk on Exploration of the Human Body before, right?"
"Mouth to mouth?"
"Yeah."
"That's slightly disturbing."
He laughed. "I knew you would say that."
Our fingers linked underwater.
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