Irene, Yeri and Joy arrived at the villa around 3 in the evening. All of them are wearing thick clothes since it is winter. The villa is 2 hours away from the city. Since the traffic a little bit jammed, they took almost 3 hours. They greeted by the house owner, Park Minyoung who smile brightly at the front door

"Unnie!" Joy run to her cousin and they hugging each other

"Aigoo, our Sooyoungie. You grown-up already" Minyoung patted Joy back

Joy pulled away from the embrace "You looked prettier unnie" she grinning toothily "Em, unnie...where is brother-in-law?"

Minyoung playfully glares at Joy "Don't ask nonsense questions. Introduce me to your friends if you want brother-in-law"

"Unnie, you're too old for my friends" Joy cackle. She remembered that she did not come alone. She beckon the sisters to come to join them "Unnie, look who we have here"

Minyoung gasped when she saw Irene "Rene! Aigoo, it has been a while" both of them exchange bow then give quick hug

"How are you unnie?" Irene asking

"I'm fine. What about you?"

"I'm good too, unnie"

Then Minyoung also greeted Yeri with a big smile. She squished Yeri cheeks making Joy and Irene cackle "Hey, let's bring your stuff inside. It's cold here"

The girls bring their luggage into the villa. Since this is the first time they visit Minyoung's villa, they are amazed to see the simple yet luxury design. After walking them to their room, everyone gathers in the living room. They got one room each since there are a lot of rooms in the villa

"Unnie, your villa is so gorgeous" Yeri complimenting with sparkling eyes

"Ayy, there are lot of beautiful villa than this one" Minyoung said shyly

"Unnie, do you design the interior personally?" ask Irene

"No, I use interior designer service. Their design are the best"

"I agree" Irene nods in approval. She is in love with the interior design of the villa

Joy noticed there is only Minyoung in the house "Unnie, where is Chorong unnie?"

"She goes out to visit her subsidiary"

"Aigooo, I thought she take leave already"

"You know that person is workaholic. She said want to make surprise visit"

"Is she coming with her friends?"

Minyoung chuckle "She come with handsome man"

"Really?"

"Yes, he is handsome and charismatic" Minyoung speak like she is in love with that person

Irene teasing the older girl "Unnie, do you fall in love?"

"Of course not" Minyoung said shyly

"Unnie, is that person Chorong unnie boyfriend?"

"I'm not sure" Minyoung shrugs her shoulder

"What is his name?"

"Seulgi...Kang Seulgi" Minyoung stated

Irene, Yeri and Joy freeze soon as they hear that familiar name. They practically looked at each other with shock. They do not expect they will meet Seulgi here. Their hearts obviously thump very fast, especially Irene. She hope that will be another Kang Seulgi, not her ex-husband

Luckily Minyoung didn't notice their expression change. "Girls, I will make hot chocolate and get some snacks for us. You all rest here for a while"

"Okay unnie" said Yeri

After making sure Minyoung is far away from them, Yeri looks at Joy and Irene and says "Yah, is that Seulgi oppa?" she asked with low tone

"Joy, why don't you tell us that Seulgi came here?" Irene questioning

"Unnie, I don't know he will come and I don't know that he is close to Chorong unnie. I really don't know unnie" Joy feels bad because she knows the conflict between Irene and her ex-husband. She also used to meet Seulgi few times when she hangouts with Yeri that's why she know him

"It's okay, don't feel bad" Irene pats Joy head

"What to do now unnie?" Yeri asking

Irene closes her eyes and sighs "Let see how Seulgi reacts and we just follow the flow. Get ready to act"

"Okay unnie" the younger girls suddenly looked excited and they bumped fists. Irene just shake her head seeing their antics

..........................

Chorong and Seulgi arrived at the villa about one hour later. Chorong skipped the living room without waiting for Seulgi. She was surprised to see they had guests. Happy smile spread on her face because she knew them too. After fooling around with Joy, she greet the sisters

"Irene-ssi, long time no see" Chorong exchange bow with Irene

"You're right Chorong-ssi. Last time we meet is few months ago during SONE Hotel launching event" Irene is very nervous but she try to look relax

"Girls, both of you know each other?" Minyoung ask happily

"Yes unnie...we work in the same industry so it is impossible if we never meet at least once. We also used to work together for some project" Chorong answer without know Irene nervousness waiting for Seulgi arrival

"The world is so small" said Minyoung

"You're right"

"Then don't use honorifics. We're not working right now"

"Sure thing" Chorong turned again to the guest "So, who is this cutie?" she looking at Yeri

Irene patting Yeri head "This is my sister"

"Nice to meet you. My name is Bae Yerim but just call me Yeri" the maknae bow politely

"Nice to meet you too, sweetie. I am Park Chorong. Just call Chorong unnie"

"Okay unnie" Yeri reply with sweet smile

Minyoung looking at her cousin "Where is Seulgi?"

Chorong flinch makes everyone a bit shocked seeing her reaction "Yah, where is Kang Seulgi?" she jog to the front door and yelling Seulgi name

"Yah, Kang Seulgi! Where are you?"

Seulgi walk leisurely while holding a can of Pringles "Noona, I'm here~"

"Yah, come inside. It's cold here" Chorong drag Seulgi on his arm

"Weather is good today. We shall enjoy it" Seulgi shove a pile of potato chips into his mouth

"You can enjoy the weather later but greet our guest first"

Seulgi turns his face to see the guest then he chokes his food. He coughs hard and almost throws up the chips in his mouth. However, Chorong quickly covered his mouth with her hand and ran him to the kitchen. She attend him while nagging as usual

Minyoung just cackle "Aigoo those two"

Few minutes later, they come back "Seulgi-ah, are you okay?"

"Yes noona, I'm okay" is the same as Irene, Seulgi also nervous and shocked to death when his ex-wife appears in front of him. He does not expect Irene will be there with them. He knows that Joy is close with the Bae sisters but doesn't know that she invites them here too. He can see the awkward and nervous look on Irene 's face. He thought about how he should react. He can't act like he doesn't know them. Now he needs to squeeze everything in his mind to make everything less awkward. The sisters now depend on him. They waited for him to react first. It obviously seen in Yeri eyes

"What shocked you just now?" Chorong interrogate

"I'm surprised to see Joy and Yeri here. You never tell me that you're related to them" Seulgi doesn't know when he gets the idea to answer the question. He just say whatever come across his mind

"Sooyoung is my cousin while Yeri is her best friend. Irene is Yeri's sister and my acquaintance too. She is the boss of Starlight Holding. Their company is one of our business partner but you haven't have chance to work with them yet" Chorong explain

"Oh, I see" Seulgi said like he just know about them

"How do you know Yeri and Sooyoung?" Minyoung ask

Seulgi scratched his nape before answering "I met them at college. I used to be one of the speakers in seminars in their college and they are in my group. That's how I know them. We still keep-in-touch though. I just don't have idea that Joy is your cousin"

"That's good that you all know each other. You just need to introduce yourself to Irene" Chorong signal Seulgi to greet Irene

Seulgi looked at his ex-wife nervously and Irene gave him a short smile "Nice to meet you Irene-ssi. I am Kang Seulgi"

"Nice to meet you too Seulgi-ssi" Irene bow her head

"Shake hand" Chorong command

"Eh?" Seulgi eyes turn wide

"I said shook hands with Irene. I teach you to shake hands with everyone you just meet, don't you?"

Seulgi gives in because that is the manner that Chorong teaches him every time he meets new people. She told him to shake hands as a sign of greeting. He slowly walked to Irene and held out his hand. Irene nervously accepts it. She know Seulgi can feel her cold hand because of nervous

"Seulgi" he said

"Irene"

Seulgi returned to his seat after that. His hand was practically sweating and he noticed that Irene's hand was also cold but soft. Meanwhile, Yeri and Joy holding their smile when see their interaction

"Are you all staying here until New Year?" Chorong looking at Irene, Joy and Yeri

"Yes, we decide to spend holiday here" said Joy

"We really don't have plans for the holiday. If we not come here with Joy unnie, we really doing nothing at home" Yeri cackle follow by the others

"Since there are still 2 days before Christmas, we should go for Christmas shopping tomorrow then decorate our house" said Minyoung

"I agree!" the girls said while Seulgi nods his head because he still munching Pringles

"We haven't buy gifts yet" said Irene

"We also have not prepared anything yet. We can go to the mall to buy stuff" said Chorong

Seulgi cough a bit then he nudge Chorong side "I want to take a nap"

"Okay, I will wake you up before dinner. Shower before you sleep"

"Okay boss"

"Put dirty clothes in the basket. I will collect it later"

"Alright, got to go now girls" Seulgi said then he go to his room

"Who wants to take a nap just go upstairs. It still too long before dinner time" Minyoung said

"I want to rest too" said Yeri

"Me too" Joy stretch her body

"Okay then, unnie will prepare our dinner" said Minyoung

"I will join you unnie" Irene chirped

"Are you tired after driving?"

"No, I'm fine"

"Alright, suit yourself"

"I will join both of you too but I need to check Seulgi first" said Chorong

"Okay" then everyone goes to their own place. Yeri and Joy go to their room to rest. Irene and Minyoung to the kitchen while Chorong go to her room to change then get dirty clothes from Seulgi room

............................

In Seulgi room

Seung Wan: Hello Seul

Seulgi: Yah, do you fly to Canada already?

Seungwan: Not yet, our flight is tonight. What's wrong? You want to go with us?

Seulgi: No, I have a news

Seungwan: What is it?

Seulgi: Irene is here

Seungwan: What?! Irene? You mean Irene Bae? Your ex-wife?

Seulgi: Yes, she came here with Yeri and Joy. You know what, Joy is Chorong noona's cousin. Not only that, Irene and Chorong Noona are also close acquaintances. Minyoung noona also close to her

Seungwan: Aigoo, what a small world. All of you are in the same circle. What are you going to do?

Seulgi: I don't know. Thankfully Yeri and Joy did not freak out when they saw me earlier. Somehow, they looked nervous and shocked. I feel sorry for them because I only introduce them as a college student that I just met

Seungwan: Hmm, what about Irene?

Seulgi: She don't say anything but from her eyes, I can see she is very awkward

Seungwan: Oh, did Chorong noona know that you are Irene's ex-husband?

Seulgi: She doesn't know. She even asked me to shake hand with Irene

Seungwan: *laughing* Just enjoy your holiday. Act naturally. Don't show your resentment towards Irene. If possible, use this chance to talk to her

Seulgi: I'm still not ready to talk with her. Just seeing her make me hurt again

Seungwan: It's okay, take your time. You have a lot of things to distract yourself from her. Besides, Chorong noona and Minyoung noona are there so you can spend time with them

Seulgi: Hm, they are very close with Irene

Seungwan: You will be fine. Don't think a lot. You are still healing now. Remember the doctor said you can't stress yourself. Don't forget to drink your meds, okay?

Seulgi: Okay, I will be good

Seungwan: Alright, have fun. I will inform you when we arrive at Canada

Seulgi: Yup, take care and safe journey. Bye

Seungwan: Bye Seul

Seulgi spacing out for a while after talking to Seungwan. Later, he groan and tossed his phone to the bed then close his eyes

...................................

10 PM at the villa

Everyone sits in the living room watching a movie that Yeri and Joy picked up on Netflix. While watching TV, they have warm tea and snacks that Minyoung brought from Italy. After the first movie ends, Yeri chooses another movie for them.

Chorong looking at the wall clock then to Seulgi who busy play game in his phone "Seul, it's your sleep time now"

Seulgi checking his phone clock then frown since he still want to play the game "Yah, I still want to play"

"You can continue tomorrow"

"Okay then" Seulgi stretch his body "Help me stand-up" everyone quickly turn their head to Seulgi

Chorong circles her arms on Seulgi waist and helps him to stand "Is it hurt again?"

"Just a little bit numb"

"Can I walk?"

"Yes"

"I will walk you to the stair then I heat milk for you"

"Okay"

Both of them slowly walking to the stairs before Chorong go to the kitchen to get a glass of milk for Seulgi

"What's wrong with him? Is he sick?" Irene hurriedly asked. She is jealous seeing their interaction but her worry about Seulgi takes over her jealousy. There must be something wrong with him that he need assist to stand up

Minyoung also has a curious look on her face "I don't know. He looked just fine yesterday"

"Let ask Chorong unnie later" said Joy

Chorong came back and everyone looked at her curiously. She noticed everyone's eyes were on her "What?"

"Unnie, what's wrong with Seulgi oppa?" Yeri asking

"He just feel numb on his leg"

"It looked quite serious" said Irene

"Yes, he have slipped disc on his lower back and just got his surgery 3 weeks ago"

"Aigoo, it must be hurt" Joy said

"Is his pain very serious that need surgery? Usually some case can heal after therapy" said Minyoung

Chorong shakes her head "At first he goes to a therapy session but numbness on his leg gets bad and in the end he needs surgery. His legs are still weak but not as bad as before. His current situation is not worrying but still needs a monitor because Kang Seulgi is very active. It's hard to control him sometimes. He can't stay still doing nothing. Sometimes I need to be strict so that he listens. He only listens well to Seungwan. According to Seungwan, his slipped disc happens because Seulgi often does intense workouts. It start to hurt last year but he not telling us"

"Oppa like to keep things for himself" Yeri sighs softly

"You're right, he will not tell us until he can't hold it anymore"

Irene massages her nose bridge while thinking about Seulgi condition. She really worries about him. He looked fine but actually had a lot of pain. "Is he hurt again today?"

"Only numb on his legs but will be fine later. He just need rest" Chorong said and Irene feel relieve

Yeri and Joy know that Irene is worried about Seulgi. The maknae asked again "Oppa drink milk every night before sleep?"

"Yes, he can't sleep well without warm milk"

Joy and Yeri cackle "Oppa is a little boy" the other also giggling with them

"He is insomnia fighter that's why he need milk before sleep"

"Oppa also suffers insomnia?" Yeri eyes turn wide

"Yes, he is. He started to have insomnia 3 years back then when he was still studying. According to Seungwan again, his personal problem is the main resource of this. He doesn't have other causes of insomnia. It is from his mental state that practically in a mess" Chorong paused for a few second "When I met him, he was really down. He covered his problem with a strong façade that no one noticed his burden. He almost gives up on everything but thankfully he listens to Eunji and she tells me about his problem. Seulgi is a strong man. He suffered depression for a few months but he's able to overcome it. His psychiatrist is also proud of him. However, his insomnia sometimes attacks him once in a while. It has been a while since he had insomnia but it came back after his slipped disc worsened. He told me that he is fine but actually there are a lot of things going through his mind. Seulgi is stress because he unable to do lot of activities like he used to"

"A strong man indeed" Irene said unconsciously. Yeri softly caressing her back to sooth her

"I feel sorry after hearing about him. When I first met him, he was very cheerful and funny. He flirted with me too. I not expect that his life is painful" Minyoung said sadly

"I told you that he has a strong façade. He will not show his burden to us. Thankfully his life is getting better since the past few years. He being honest to me that there is no more burden in his shoulder except work and my nagging" all of them cackle

"Hey, I'm curious about his family. He never talks about them. He is so close with your appa and umma" Minyoung stares at Chorong. Her question also gaining attention from Bae sisters

"Seulgi is reserved when it comes to his family. He never talks about them. The only person who knows everything about him is Seungwan. When people ask about his family, he said his only family is Seungwan. He is very happy when meet with appa and umma. He loves them so much. Now appa and umma closer to him than me"

'That's mean Chorong don't know about me and Seulgi' – Irene thought

"Unnie, are you dating Seulgi oppa?" Yeri asked boldly

Chorong laughing "I'm not dating him. We looked like a couple but actually not an item. We just have sibling relationships. Seulgi and I are completing each other. Seulgi said he had a terrible past relationship and it is a trauma to start a relationship again. Lot of people asked this question and we only gave the same answer. We are not dating. We are comfortable with our relationship now. No love, no headache and no pain. We're free to go anywhere, hangouts with anyone and no one controlling us"

"Oh, you two looked like a couple" said Joy

"I agree" said Minyoung "You two looked good together"

"I heard that statement a lot," Chorong grinned widely. "Last night he did not sleep well because there was no milk. I forgot to buy milk for him at the mart. This morning he is cranky and throwing tantrums here and there. He can't stop whining. I had to let him sleep for an hour in the car before he got back in his mood. He was really childish when his mood ruined. When he wakes up, he whines because he is hungry. He was not eating properly this morning. One thing I don't like is when Seulgi throws a tantrum, he will be really whiny and noisy. He will not stop whining until he get what he want" Chorong annoying and laughing together with the others

"Why he don't just stay at home and sleep? Besides, I'm not going anywhere earlier so I can cook for him" said Minyoung

Chorong rolled her eyes "He said he is shy to stay alone with you"

"Yah!" Minyoung's eyes widened while other girls laughing heartily "What makes him shy around me? Usually he love to flirt with me"

"Seulgi is unpredictable. The longer you stay with me, the more weird antics of him that you will find out. You see in this one week, how many stupid attitude you will see from him"

"I will twist his ear tomorrow. How could he shy around me?" Minyoung dramatically groan bring laughter to the girls

...................................

Today Seulgi and the girls go to the mall for Christmas shopping. All of them are wearing thick clothes since the weather is so cold. Seulgi and Chorong wearing matching color jackets that resulted in both of them looking like a sweet couple. Minyoung, Yeri and Joy teasing both of them while Irene just forced her smile. She tries her best to look okay in front of them. Seulgi also hasn't talked to her. He just giving her short smile and avoiding her eyes all the time

They enter the mall following Chorong and Minyoung. Suddenly, Chorong stop walking make everyone behind her also halted their footstep

"What's wrong?" Irene furrowed her eyebrows

Chorong turns around then looking at Seulgi "I want to bring Seulgi to the salon. You all can walk around while waiting for us"

"Yah, I thought your hair care routine was only on the first Saturday of the month and your salon only in Seoul" Seulgi stared at Chorong confusedly. Everyone can expect that Chorong always drag Seulgi along because he know Chorong routine

"Not I but you must get your haircut"

"My hair still short" Seulgi touching his hair

"No such things. You haven't cut your hair this month. Let's go. We haven't eat anything yet so let's cut your hair quickly then we go to eat" Chorong grab Seulgi wrist

"Hm...noona~" Seulgi pouting

"No protest or you want to eat at a vegan restaurant?" Chorong wiggle her eyebrows

"Noona~" Seulgi whining

"Chorongie, since you just sent him to cut his hair. We will walk around first then find the restaurant for us to eat" said Minyoung

"Okay unnie, just text me the place then we will meet you all there"

"Alright, see you two later"

"Okay, let's go baby" Chorong drag Seulgi with her while the others go to opposite direction

Yeri noticed her sister looked like someone not in mood so she linked arms with her "Unnie, you okay?" she whisper

"I'm fine" Irene nods her head

"Everything will be okay. Cheer up. We come here to enjoy our holiday. Don't show that face. Chorong unnie and Minyoung unnie don't know about your history with oppa so don't let them discover it. Let's not make oppa upset more, alright? Just follow his acting"

"Okay" said Irene

"Let's walk faster. We're too far already" Yeri and Irene fastened their pace to catch up with Minyoung and Joy who don't notice they are leave behind

............................

The girls decide to eat at Italian restaurant at the mall. They are waiting for Chorong and Seulgi since Chorong said they are almost done. While they gossiping around, Chorong show up at their table but she is alone

"Where is Seulgi oppa?" Joy look behind Chorong but she don't see Seulgi

"That stupid stop at claw machine at the front. He still compete with a little boy to get tiger doll" Chorong rolled her eyes

"Calm down unnie" Yeri cackle

"I try my best to not pull his ear, you know" Chorong pulled her hair in frustration "Do you all order your food already?"

"Yes...we don't know what you and Seulgi want so we not order for you"

"It's okay" Irene call the waitress for Chorong then she order food for her and Seulgi "Hmm, Seulgi don't like veggies" she said while looking at menu book

After read the list finally Chorong choose her order "Lasagna, spaghetti alla carbonara and focaccia...dessert il tiramisù for two"

"Okay ma'am, drink?"

"Cappuccino and hot chocolate bomb with marshmallow"

"That's all ma'am?"

"Yes" the waitress bow politely before leave their table

Minyoung tapped her fingers on the table "You order for Seulgi too?"

"Yes unnie"

"You know his food preference" Minyoung teasing her cousin

"He is not picky except veggies. He is anti-vegetable human"

"Let me guess, hot chocolate bomb is for him, right?" Yeri guessing

"True, he loves childish stuff. You can see how happy he is later"

10 minutes later, Seulgi comes back with 1 tiger doll and 1 lion doll. He gives it to Joy and Yeri. He said it is an advance Christmas gift for both of them. After eating, they go around the mall to buy decorations for their Christmas, also shopping for groceries. Irene, Minyoung and Chorong are in charge of buying stuff while Seulgi attends Joy and Yeri who tend to be stuck at random stores. In the end, he need to buy cotton candy to distract them from stopping at random stores or playground

.............................

In the living room, Yeri and Seulgi are watching TV while drinking hot chocolate. The other girls are busy cooking for their Christmas dinner tonight. Yeri looks towards the kitchen before turning her face to Seulgi. She have to make sure line is clear before talk

"Oppa"

"Em?" Seulgi tilt his head to look at Yeri

Yeri scratch her head "I want to talk about you and unnie"

"Which unnie?" Seulgi asked innocently

Now Yeri remember she have 4 other unnie in the kitchen and she not mention which one of them "Irene unnie"

"Oh, what do you want to talk about?

"Em, are you going to talk with unnie about your past relationship...I mean clear things between both of you" Yeri asked carefully

"I still not ready to talk to her, Yeri-ah"

"I understand oppa. Unnie wants to approach you but she's scared. Besides, Chorong unnie and Minyoung unnie don't know about both of you so she don't want them to misunderstand and ruin our holiday"

"Tell her not to talk about us when we're here. I will go to her when I'm ready. She just need to wait" he said coldly

"Okay oppa" Yeri answered faintly "Oppa, do you...hate her?"

"No" Seulgi shake his head

"But you sound like you don't want to hear her name. You sound like you want to scold me" Yeri said sadly

Seulgi jolted up a bit then looking at Yeri with guilt "I'm sorry. Oppa not scold you. Don't sad, okay?" he peck Yeri forehead

"Okay oppa" Yeri pouting

..............................

After returning from church for Christmas Eve mass, all of them change to comfortable clothes before eating their meal in the living room. Their initial plan is to eat at rooftop but the temperature is very low and snowy so they end up at the living room and watching movies.

These foods consist of Korean and Italian cuisine. Korean cuisine made by Chorong and Irene while Italian food made by Minyoung and assisted by Joy. Seulgi and Yeri in charge of decorating the room and set up Christmas tree since they not allow to cook

"Wow, the foods smell make my tummy growling" Yeri smile cheekily as she saw various types of foods on the table

"Can't wait to gobble the foods" Joy added

Before eating, they are busy taking pictures of the foods. Everyone snapping here and there for good angle

"I will post this on my SNS" said Irene while her fingers busy tapping on the screen

"Rene, don't forget to tag me" said Chorong

"Okay!" Irene answer excitedly

"Me too" Minyoung added

"I will tag everyone"

"Where is Seulgi oppa?" Joy asking impatiently because she is starving

"Maybe oppa put on his make-up" Yeri joking around

Seulgi comes to the living room and sits between Joy and Chorong "Sorry, I'm late. Am I missing something?"

"Do you put on make-up?" Yeri ask teasingly

"Yah" Seulgi pinch Yeri cheek "Oppa will not give you gift"

"Oppa!" Yeri sulking

"Yah, don't tease her" Chorong caressing Yeri cheek

"Scold her, unnie!" said Yeri then Chorong hit Seulgi's shoulder for her. Everyone laughed at Yeri's childish antics. Irene also laughs along with them. She is jealous, she admits it but she holds it well. No way will she ruin their happy moment

"Oppa, you missed our group photo just now" Joy chirped

Seulgi lips corner tugged downwards "How dare you guys take photos without me?"

"Do you really need to be dramatic?" Chorong ask lazily

"Seulgi-ah, you're so cute" Minyoung laughing while staring at Seulgi who busy pouting his lips

"Noona, I'm very cute but Chorong noona always deny it"

"Aigoo, my poor boy"

"Noona~" Seulgi make shoot tiny heart to Minyoung and she reply with same gesture

All of them having fun teasing each other while enjoying their meal. They gossip about artists, talk about nonsense topics, bickering and Seulgi flirting with Minyoung. Everyone has a bright smile on their face. Suddenly, a phone ringtone disturbing their happy moment

"Whose phone is that?" Irene asking

"Mine," Seulgi said while fishing out his phone from his pocket. When he saw the caller ID, he sighs heavily

"Who is that? Why not answer?" Chorong looking at Seulgi who frowning while staring at his phone

"This witch calling me again" Seulgi showing his phone screen and he name the caller as 'Witch'

"Your secret admirer again?" Chorong hold her laugh

"Yes" Seulgi said annoyingly

"Which one this time? Is she still the same girl?"

"Kim Chungha"

Chorong tapping her chin "Kim Chungha...who is that? How did she have your number?"

"She is from the account department. I gave her my number because I need to ask her about budget of our project but she taking advantage" Seulgi put the phone on the table after he reject the call

"Really? I never hear her name"

"Yah, how can you don't know your own staff?"

"I have a lot of staff and I can't remember everyone. I only memorize the people who work closely with me. The rest are practically stranger" Chorong defend herself

Joy interrupt "Unnie is getting old actually"

"Yah! Don't joke with age" Chorong, Irene and Minyoung protest in unison

Seulgi and the kids laugh heartily then they high five with each other. His phone ring again for second time

"Let me answer it," Chorong grabbed his phone and slid the green button. She press the device to her ear

"Hello, who is this?"

"..."

"Excuse me Chungha-ssi, this is Kang Seulgi girlfriend. Why do you keep disturbing him even if he rejects you many times? Where do you put your pride as a woman?"

"..."

"Em, I know you're one of his colleagues. If I find out you are calling him again, I will make sure you lose your job. Mark my words, Chungha-ssi"

"..."

Chorong give the phone back to Seulgi "Done"

"Unnie, you're so cool!" Yeri clapped her hands happily

"Thank you little one" Chorong pats Yeri head. After pampering Yeri, she grab her phone and calling someone

"Hello Naeunie"

"..."

"Sorry for disturbing your time but I have urgent task for you"

"..."

"You know Kim Chungha from the account department, right?"

"..."

"Please transfer her to our branch at Sejong City effective 2nd January. Make sure she's not come to HQ without important reason"

"..."

"Good. That's all for now. Merry Christmas"

"..."

"Okay, bye"

Chorong put her phone on the table "Now you're free from suitor"

"Alright"

"Now you're not only cool but scary" Minyoung remarks

"I thought Irene unnie is the scariest but I'm wrong. Both of you are very scary" Joy looking at Chorong and Irene

"That's why we born in same month and year" said Irene then she high five with Chorong

"Unnie, fireworks!" Yeri squeal while pointed at the window

"Omo! Beautiful" everyone except Seulgi busy capturing the colorful fireworks

"Aigoo" Seulgi silently mumbled. He continue eating while waiting for them to stop taking picture

Minyoung brought a bottle of wine from her room. "This is a special wine from my friend's winery in Slovenia. She gave me a farewell gift. It is fresh wine" she pour it to their wine glass

"Seulgi, just drink once"

"Okay"

They cheer together before sip their wine "MERRY CHRISTMAS"

..................................

It has been a few months since their getaway at Minyoung villa but Seulgi hasn't come to meet Irene yet. She still remembers Yeri telling her to not talk to Seulgi first until he comes to her. She patiently waits for him every day. During their vacation, Seulgi only talks to her when necessary. He obviously avoided her. Irene understands why Seulgi acts that way, he just doesn't want Minyoung and Chorong to notice them. She also is not ready to unveil their past relationship to outsiders.

Irene admits that she suffers from jealousy, in 1 week they are under the same roof. Seulgi looked very happy with Chorong. Sometimes they were naturally close to each other and sometimes Seulgi looked like showing off how happy his life is now. She doesn't want to believe it but she can see a mocking smile from Seulgi when their eyes meet when he is clingy with Chorong. She doesn't blame him for doing that. Seulgi has the right to be happy. She just regrets letting his ego and hatred win when they are still together. Now she can only witness Seulgi's bright smile and bubbly side because of other women. If only she behaves maturely back then, it's her who will make Seulgi smile like that. Deep inside her heart, she hurt badly and she can only cry silently behind the close door

"Rene?" Solar snapped her fingers in front of Irene but she was still spacing out "Bae Joohyun!" she yell and successfully make Irene jolt up

"Yah!" she glare in return

"I called you 5 minutes ago but you don't hear me. What bothers your mind?"

"Nothing" Irene mumble then she sighs heavily

Solar staring at her friend for a few seconds then she speaks "You think about Seulgi again, don't you?" Irene not giving a response. She is busy drawing invisible circles on the table. "Wait patiently, okay? One day he will come to you. I know he keep his promise"

"The longer I don't meet him, the guilty feeling in my mind keeps heavier. I know he doesn't want to talk to me or even see my face. I don't mind that. He can turn his back to me and let me apologize to him. He doesn't need to see my face though, he just needs to hear me. Just giving me a chance to speak is enough for me. I don't deserve his forgiveness but I will apologize no matter what. I don't want to live in regret until forever. He met everyone already but me" Irene chuckle bitterly and her eyes clearly teary "Maybe he punish me so I suffocated by this feeling"

Solar squeeze Irene hand softly "Rene, calm down, alright? I will find a way for him to meet you sooner"

"No, don't force him. Let him come to me when he wants. I can wait no matter how long it will take" Solar just staring at Irene sadly. She's very sympathetic to her. Irene desperately wants to meet Seulgi but he is still avoiding her. She know Irene is at fault but at least Seulgi hear her apology

................................

Seulgi, Seungwan, Eunji and Chorong have lunch at the café near their company. Suddenly, a familiar voice greeted them. That person is Solar

"Noona, have a sit" said Seulgi then Solar sit on the empty chair beside Seungwan

"Noona, what do you want to eat or drink?" Seungwan asking

"It's okay, I ate already with my client. Let me go straight to the point. I have an urgent thing to talk to you Seulgi" Solar speaks with a firm tone. Seulgi and Seungwan looking at each other then the Canadian shrugs his shoulder

"Shall we talk somewhere else?" Seulgi asking

"No, just here. It is not a secret. I have to go back to office quickly"

"W-what is it noona?"

Solar looks straight to Seulgi eyes "Have you met Irene already?"

"No" Seulgi slowly shake his head

"Why?"

"I'm not ready to see her," Seulgi said nervously. He can feel Chorong is looking at his curiously right now

"Not ready or you actually don't want to see her? You make her wait yet you still do not go to her. If you don't want to see her, don't promise anything. You only raise her hope when you keep saying that you will see her. Don't do that just to make Yeri feel better. Yeri doesn't blame you if you don't want to see her sister" Solar waiting for Seulgi's answer but he looked down to his laps "I don't know you still not ready even after you stayed under the same roof with her during last Christmas. I know everything that happens there is Seul. She and Yeri told me everything about you. I thought when you two are there, you will take that chance to talk but you avoid her instead. You can see from her eyes when you..." she discontinue her words and shut her eyes

"Please Seul, I beg on her behalf. Irene wants to apologize for her past mistake. You don't need to forgive her if it is hard for you but at least the burden in her mind is gone after an apology to you. Do you know how desperate she wants to see you?" her eyes meet with Seulgi "She doesn't mind if you don't want to see her face. You can turn your back to her but at least let her talk about her regret. If you want karma to hit her back, it really happens slowly to her. She has been slightly depressed since she came back from the vacation. She does not allow us to tell you because she doesn't want you to scold us but I can't see her in a miserable state. Byul and Yeri have to shut their mouths tightly because Irene doesn't want you to hate them. You can hate me for telling you about her and want you to meet her but please go to her. Just 5 minutes is enough if you don't want to see her too long"

"Sorry noona..."

"Don't apologize to me. You do nothing wrong" Solar take out something from her bag "This is her business card. You can call her number if you don't have her number anymore" Seulgi takes the card from the table "Sorry for disturbing your lunch. I have to go now"

"Drive safely noona" said Seungwan

"Okay" Solar smile shortly before she leave the café

Seungwan turns to Seulgi who is staring blankly at the card that he holds "Seul, are you okay?"

"Em, I'm okay"

"Seulgi-ah, what happened just now? I'm puzzle" Chorong questioning

"She is Kim Yongsun. Irene's friend" said Seulgi

"Irene is Bae Irene? Does she have something to do with you?"

Seulgi slowly rubs his face "I'm sorry for not telling you about her. She is the person that caused me trauma to fall in love again..." he opened up about his past marriage with Irene and his feelings for her. Chorong pulls him to her embrace and comforts him like a sister she is. She never sees Seulgi crying like this. She feel his sadness to

"Please go to her and make everything right, okay? Listen to her and forgive her. Don't punish her for her past mistake. Every human make mistake and who we are to not forgive them"

"Okay noona" Seulgi nods weakly

......................

From: 010-xxxxx

Come to this location on 4 sharp! Text me when you arrive

[Location]

-KSG

Irene's eyes turned wide after she read the text. She reread it again to make sure she is not dreaming. After confirming the text is real, she jumps from the couch and runs to her bedroom. The time is 3:15 PM so she hurriedly changes her clothes so she will not get stuck in a traffic jam. She waited for this day too long already and she will not let Seulgi wait for her arrival. She will make sure she will arrive earlier than he wanted. She dress up with casual clothes and put on light make up before leave her house

She arrived at the park 15 minutes before 4. However, she decided to not text him yet. She doesn't want him to think that she is very excited for this meeting. She stay in her car while waiting for Seulgi to arrive

Few minutes later, she saw a familiar car parked a few meters away from hers. Seulgi came out of the car. He walked to the nearby bench and sat there. Irene staring at him and unconsciously she smile while adoring him

"Stupid Irene, why do you let him go before?" she monologue while her eyes still on Seulgi back "Right, I will get him back today. Pride...stay here for a while"

She takes a deep breath before getting out of her car but not before texting Seulgi about her arrival. She walked slowly. Her heart was already beating crazily and palm was wet because of nervous. When she stop behind Seulgi, she clear her throat to notify him about her presence

"Kang Seulgi"

Seulgi turn around then smile shortly "Have a sit" he said then Irene sit beside him at the other end of the bench

"Am I late?" Irene asking nervously

"No, you come on time" he said

Irene wetting her dried lips with her saliva before she speak again "Emm...thank you for give me chance to talk to you"

"No problem. Now let's go straight to the point"

Irene gulped down bitterly after Seulgi's response. It obvious that he don't want to stay around her for too long

"I'm sorry for what I had done to you in our past marriage. I let my ego and hatred take over me without knowing how much you expect from our marriage. I don't know that you're alone all the time. I'm very sorry" Irene said sincerely

Seulgi sighs softly "I forgive you already. You don't have to think about that anymore. I also don't want to think about our past and you also should move on. Don't blame yourself again. I'm over it already. Besides, I'm content with my life now. I have everything I need. Appa and umma also regret their action. We reconcile already and spend a lot of time with each other when I'm not busy. They pass the business to noona so they have lot of time for family now"

"Glad to hear that. Thank you for your forgiveness. I'm really appreciate it"

"You're welcome"

Irene played with her fingers nervously. Now the burden in her mind is gone but there is something that makes her nervous to death. She doesn't know how Seulgi will react if she asks this question but she will not back off. She will ask him "Seulgi"

"Yup?"

"Emm...can we...start again?" Irene slowly looked at Seulgi to see his reaction. He clearly shock by her question

"Sorry?"

"I mean can we start our relationship again? I know this sound nonsense but I want to make it up to you. Your departure makes me realize that I need you more than anyone. When Yeri told me about your feelings, I got impatient to meet you and restart our relationship. Seulgi-ah, can us?" she asked carefully

Seulgi laughing dryly then looking at Irene "What Yeri told you about my feeling is right but I'm very sorry, I'll not go back to you again. Stop expecting me to start a relationship with you because I will never do that. I can forgive you for your behavior but to start again with you, I'm sorry, I can't"

Irene shed tears in front of Seulgi. His statement successfully left her dumbfounded. He stabbed her right on her heart and break it into pieces

"It's okay" Irene said between her sad sobs

Seulgi notices Irene is crying but he stops himself to comfort her "I guess there is nothing else to say. I have to go now. Please don't appear in front of me without an urgent reason. Don't use your friendship with Chorong as a reason for you to meet with me. I don't like it. What past is past, don't repeat it anymore"

"Okay," Irene answered without looking at Seulgi. After spend few minutes crying on the bench, she go back to her house

..............................

Her phone rang loudly in her room making Irene who was sleeping peacefully grunt and cursing the caller. She grabbing her phone and answer without checking the caller ID

"Yah, who is this?" she asking coldly

"Sorry ma'am, is this Bae Joohyun-ssi?"

Irene checks her phone screen and it is from an unknown number "Yes, who are you? Why do you call me late at night?"

"I'm very sorry. I'm from Redmare Bar. I would like to tell you that your friend is wasted in our bar. He keeps chanting your name and drunkenly asking us to call you. Luckily he unlocked his phone for us and we found your number. Can you come and pick him up?"

Irene is getting confused. Who on earth is that guy? She not close to any other guy except her cousins but that probably not any of them because her cousins stay far away from her place

"May I know who is him?"

"I don't know his name ma'am but from his feature that my staff said he have monolid eyes, chubby cheeks and brown hair"

"Kang Seulgi" Irene mumble "Okay, I will be there quickly. Please look after him for me"

"Okay ma'am" the call end

Irene changes her clothes while nagging "Kang Seulgi, why do you chant my name after rejecting me? You have Park Chorong. Why are you still troubling me?"

.......................

30 minutes later, Irene arrived at the bar. She run to the bartender who busy attending his customer

"Excuse me sir, is there someone named Kang Seulgi here?"

"Yes ma'am. He is at the table at the corner"

"I am his friend. Can anyone help me to bring him to my car?"

"Sure ma'am, I will call my colleague to help you"

"Okay, thanks"

Seulgi sleeping peacefully while sometimes mumbling randomly. 2 waiters helped Irene to bring him to her car then put him on the back seat. She give them tips as her thanks before leaving the bar

"Aigoo, where shall I bring him?" She looked over her shoulder to check Seulgi's condition. She doesn't know his address. She also doesn't have Seungwan's number to ask him about the Seulgi address. Yeri also at California with their parents right now so she don't have anyone to ask for help

In the end, she decides to bring him to her suite. No way will she bring Seulgi to her house. She knows Seulgi doesn't like it. When she arrived at the hotel, she asked the security guard to assist her to carry Seulgi to her suite. After the guards leave, she goes to the room. Seulgi sprawl on the bed and snoring

Irene stares at him sadly then she slowly approaches him "Seulgi-ah, what happened? What makes you drink like this? Is it because of me? Please don't get hurt. I don't want to see you in pain. I promise I will not come to your life anymore...I sincerely let you go...I want the best for you even if it is not with me. I love you, Seulgi...I mean it. You're my last love. There is no one else to replace you. Please be happy...for me, okay?" she kissed his forehead and her tears fell down. She crying while hugging the drunken Seulgi who don't hear anything that she said

After spending a few minutes crying, she decides to take off his shoes and jacket. Seulgi suddenly moving a lot when she want to take off his jacket

"Seulgi-ah, don't move. Let me take off your jacket" said Irene

Seulgi hand suddenly grabbing Irene shoulders "Joohyun~" he mumble

"S-seulgi"

"Joohyun-ah..." Seulgi eyes still close. He pull Irene closer to him until they just few meters away from each other

"Yah, Kang Seulgi...what are you doing?" Irene try to pull away but Seulgi is so strong

Their lips meet and Irene can taste the strong alcohol taste on Seulgi lips. She tries to push him away but he tightens his hold on her body. The kiss getting will and Irene giving up to fight. She doesn't have the energy to push Seulgi away from her. He flipped their position and now he is on top of her. Their make-out getting hot and soon follow by moans from both of them

............................

5 in the morning, Irene stirred from her sleep and found out she slept naked under the blanket. She looked to her right, Seulgi still sleeping soundly beside her. He was back facing her. Their clothes scattered around the floor. Her lower half is slightly numb because Seulgi was too rough last night. There are a lot of red marks on her chest. After zoning out for a while, she collect her clothes then dress up

Before leaving, she brought a glass of water and a painkiller for Seulgi. She doesn't want Seulgi to know her presence, that's why she leaves before he wakes up. She kiss his temple before get out of the room

"Thank you for everything my love. I will miss you" she smile sadly

...........................

Several hours later

Seulgi groans and holds his throbbing head. He is really dizzy because of the alcohol effect. He shut his eyes for a few while to get rid of the pain. However, his eyes immediately open when he realizes he is in a room. He quickly sit

"Shit!" he curse when he realize himself naked and his clothes scattered on the floor "What I have done last night?" he looked around and it is not his room

He jumped down from the bed and put on his clothes. His throbbing head is long forgotten. He spotted a glass of water and painkiller on the bedside table. A piece of sticky note stick properly on the glass

Take a painkiller before you leave. Sorry I have to leave early. Please don't waste yourself anymore. Take care of your health. Car key, phone and wallet are on the table. Thanks!

With love, B

Seulgi eyebrows knitted as he tries to recall the person with initial B "Who is this B?" scratching his head. Since he can't find out the answer, he drinks the meds quickly leaving the suite. When he arrive at the lobby, he go to front desk to find out who bring him to this hotel

"Ma'am, may I know someone who booked the presidential suite last night?"

"Sorry sir, we're not allow to share our customer information" said the staff politely

"I stayed at that suite last night but I don't know the person who book it because I come here wasted"

Before the staff replied, the hotel manager approached them "Good day sir, what can we do for you?"

"Boss, he want to know the person who booked the presidential suite last night"

The manager nods his head then he smiles at Seulgi ''Don't worry Mr. Kang, the person who brought you here last night is not a bad person. My staff and I are not allowed to say that person name no matter what way you want us to say"

Seulgi slump his shoulder dejectedly "It okay, thanks for information"

"No problem sir"

Seulgi leaving the receptionist with a heavy step. He needs to ride a taxi to the bar since his car is still there. Right after Seulgi leaving, the manager back to his office then he call someone

"Boss, he leave already"

"Okay, is he in a good state?"

"Yes boss, he looked healthy and fresh. He just disappointed because he don't get the information that he wanted"

"Alright, thanks for your assist"

"No problem boss"

...................

Yeri sped off to hospital after receiving a call from Irene's secretary telling her that Irene rushed to hospital after passing out in her office. She ran to the hallway to find the room where Irene was being treated. Her unnie looked fine this morning before both of them left for the office. She is really worry if something happen to Irene

She stopped in front of room number 211 and barged inside without knocking. She is already in a panic state to think about manners. Irene's secretary stand up and bow to Yeri soon as the younger Bae enter

"Good afternoon Miss. Bae"

"Good afternoon secretary Jung. What happened to my sister?"

"I found her passed out in her office when I want to remind her for her lunch"

"Is she looking in pain this morning?"

"She looked fine when she arrived but after our meeting, her face slightly pale. She said she is tired"

Yeri nods her head "Alright, thanks for bring her here"

"No problem Ms. Bae. Doctor will come here with her checkup result in one hour"

"Okay, you can go back to the office now. Cancel her appointment and meeting for tomorrow. If there is something urgent, just pass it to Ms. Kim. She will arrive from a business trip tonight, isn't it?"

"Yes miss"

"Alright"

After the secretary leaves, Yeri goes to the bed. Irene is still unconscious. She looked pale

"Unnie, what's wrong?" Yeri said follow by heavy sigh

Doctors come with a file that has Irene's health record. She greeted Yeri with a friendly smile "Are you a relative of Bae Joohyun-ssi?"

"Yes, I am Bae Yerim. She is my sister. What's wrong with my unnie?"

The doctor smiled again "Her condition is not in a worrying state. She just tired due to her pregnancy"

Yeri eyes turn wide "Pregnancy?!" she shocked

"Yes, your sister is pregnant 6 weeks"

"What the..." Yeri looked at Irene with her jaw dropping. Just a few weeks ago Irene was crying , telling her that she was rejected by Seulgi and now she is pregnant. "Doctor, you are not mistaken, right?"

"Yes ma'am, Bae Joohyun-ssi is pregnant. I have her health record in that file"

In the end, Yeri only nods her head weakly "Thank you doctor"

"Right now, she must have a lot of rest and don't stress out. She will wake up really soon"

"Okay doctor"

Yeri sits on the bed edge after both of them are left alone in the room. She put her hand on Irene belly caressing the flat tummy "Yah, is there really someone inside? Unnie, who did this to you? He must be responsible for you and your baby. I will find that man no matter what"

........................

Irene wakes up from her deep sleep startling Yeri who plays a game on her phone. Yeri quickly go to her unnie and cupped her face

"Unnie, are you okay? Do you hurt somewhere?"

"I'm okay" Irene said hoarsely "What are you doing here?"

"Take care of you, of course" Yeri stare at her unnie "Unnie"

"Em?"

"Do you know that...you have a baby?" Yeri asked carefully

She thought Irene will shock but she smile instead "Yes, I know"

"Seriously? Why don't you tell me?"

"I just found out yesterday. I took a pregnancy test because my period suddenly delayed. The result is positive. I don't know how to tell you" Irene pouting

"Unnie, may I know who is the father?"

Irene shut her eyes for few seconds before answer the question "Seulgi"

Yeri jump in shock "You...you mean Seulgi oppa? But he..." the maknae speechless

"This baby belongs to Seulgi. I never have sex with anyone else since I break up with Minho"

"Unnie, how did this happen?"

"The night that was supposed to be our last meeting is when that tragedy happened. He wasted at the bar then the staff called me to pick him up. He asked them to call me instead of Seungwan or Chorong. I don't have a choice but to bring him to my private suite. He force me to have sex with him. He does it without his consciousness. I don't have strength to push him away. I already expect this to happen because we don't wear any protection. The chance to not pregnant is thin" Irene sobbing softly after telling Yeri

Yeri embracing her sister tightly "Don't worry unnie. I will make him responsible for what he has done to you. I don't care if he don't want to see you anymore but this baby is his"

Irene shakes her head "No, don't tell anyone about this baby. Don't let anyone know" she release herself from Yeri embrace

"But you can't hide it. Sooner or later, your belly will be seen" Yeri puzzled

"I will leave to California and stay there until my baby born"

"What about the company?"

"Solar can cover it for me. You also can visit our company once in a while to sign some documents that need my signature. You like it or not, you must assist Solar. There is no one else that I trust except both of you. I know you are still under contract with Chorong's company but nothing wrong if you come to our company. I will not force you to join us but just help me and Solar is good enough. I will prepare a document to appoint you as acting CEO. I not accept rejection"

Yeri massages her nose bridge "What about appa and umma? I haven't call them yet"

"I will go to California following them and inform them about this news when I arrive there"

"What if appa scolds you and does not accept your baby to our family?"

"Appa is not that jerk. This is future successor of his business so I'm sure he will be happy"

"I hope so. When you will go?"

"This weekend. Sooner is better"

"Okay, I will go with you. I can't let you go alone. I not accept rejection" Yeri said sternly make Irene giggle

"Alright" she pinch Yeri cheek

"Unnie, don't do that. I'm not a kid anymore. I'm a future aunty" Yeri whine

"You are still our baby until the new baby is born" Irene pulled Yeri to her embrace then kissed her temple "Thank you for always being there for me. Sometimes I'm being strict to you but that doesn't mean I don't love you. I want the best for you. You understand that, right?"

Yeri nods eagerly "I love you too unnie, more than anything else in this world" she mumble

.............................

Solar and Moonbyul send Bae sisters to the airport. Irene decides to open up to Solar because she is her best friend and Solar promises not to tell anyone about Irene's condition. Moonbyul also knows about her pregnancy. The couple pray for the best for them

"Rene, please take care of yourself and baby, okay? I will miss you" Solar said

"I will miss you too. I entrust Yeri to both of you. Please look after her when my parents travelling"

"We will do our best" said Moonbyul

"We will visit you and baby when we're free"

"Okay, I will wait"

"Don't forget to buy lot of gifts for baby" Yeri joking

"No more gift for you after this" said Moonbyul

"Unnie said I'm still a baby until the new baby born" Yeri stuck her tongue out

Solar pats Yeri head "Make sure your unnie arrives at home safe and sound. We will pick you up on Tuesday"

"Okay unnie"

Announcement for their flight can be heard from the speaker and it's time for their farewell "Seem like we have to go now" said Irene

Solar hugging her best friend "Take care of yourself, don't stress out. Don't think a lot about your work. I will handle it for you. I will call you when I'm free"

"Okay, you also take care" Irene reply after pull away from their embrace

"Safe journey both of you" Moonbyul said

"Thanks oppa...bye~" Yeri waved to the couple and Irene followed suit. Moonbyul and Solar leave the airport after Bae sisters enter the departure hall