Prologue JooHee sighed and looked around her.  The waves were curling up… falling at her feet.  It seemed as if the ocean was bowing to her… as if she was a princess.  She sighed again and looked out onto the horizon.  The setting sun set out a beautiful reddish color onto the blue water.  She tried to stop the tears from coming down her face, but it soon dropped next to her, by her feet.  She wearily sat on the sand and thought about all those times… She shook her head and got up.  It was time to leave this place.  She couldn’t stay… memories haunted her.  She slowly walked back to the beach house.  As she looked at it, she knew she would be going to a new place, better than this…  And this house was going to have a new owner… better than her. <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> “JooHee yah?  Are you packed?  Are you ready to go?” her brother asked. JooHee nodded and said, “Oppa, I’ve been ready since last week.  There’s nothing to pack.  We’re leaving everything here, remember?” Her brother, MinWoo nodded and said, “I'm sorry… I don’t want to leave either.  But there’s no choice.  The owner wants the house back.” JooHee sighed and said, “I know… I know.” MinWoo nodded quickly and patted her back.  “Let’s go then.  I think HyeSung’s waiting outside.  He said he’d drive us.” JooHee’s face expression changed and she asked, “HyeSung oppa?  Let’s go then!” MinWoo grinned and said, “You can’t bear to be a minute away from him, can you?” JooHee shook her head furiously and MinWoo shrugged.  They took all, if any, of their things with them and walked out to meet HyeSung. JooHee waved and said, “HyeSung oppa!” HyeSung got out of the car and waved.  JooHee laughed and said, “You got a haircut!” HyeSung nodded and said, “My hair was getting kind of long, didn’t you think so?” MinWoo snorted and asked, “You think?” They all laughed, because HyeSung’s hair had been right on his neck before.  He had cut it so it didn’t even reach his neck.  MinWoo got in the front and JooHee stalled for a moment.  She asked, “Oppa… you’re sure that we could visit right?” MinWoo nodded and said, “I'm sure the owner would be kind enough to let us come to our old home.” JooHee smiled and said, “Wait then.”  She walked over to the mailbox and sighed before she opened it.  She opened her bag and took out a letter she had written the night before.  She quickly put it in and closed the latch.  She closed her eyes tightly and let the last tear fall. HyeSung shouted, “Do you want to take all day?!” JooHee quickly brushed off her tear and ran to the car.  She smiled and said, “Sorry…  Let’s go!” They all went to their new home… next to HyeSung’s.  They would have fun there… they hoped.  After all, the beach house had been their first home… and they loved it.  But MinWoo and JooHee had to let it go…  it wasn’t theirs.  They had just rented it… and the owner wanted it back.  They didn’t have any choice, but to leave.  JooHee sighed one last time as she looked out the window and saw the mailbox and the house fading away from view.  She looked towards the front and vowed to herself to never think about the house again. Chapter 1 “JungHyuk shi.  Here’s the house your father got for us,” MiYoung said, smiling. Eric snorted and said, “This?  This crummy old place? This was the best he could do for his son and his girlfriend?” MiYoung frowned and said, “JungHyuk shi… it’s so nice.  Look at the view.” Eric snorted again and said, “I don’t care about the view.  I need an office!  Does this have room for an office?  If there isn’t, someone better make one… fast.” The driver looked back and said, “It has three rooms, sir.  It has an office…  You will sleep in separate rooms, won’t you?” Eric grinned and said, “Of course we will!  We’re not engaged just yet.” MiYoung smiled and said, “Although, we will be very soon.” They reached the front and MiYoung slowly stepped out.  “It’s so beautiful…  Breathtaking…” Even Eric had to admit that it was beautiful…  The sun was well over the ocean now.  The water was a shimmering blue.  The sand was like brown wood…  Flat, smooth surface…  And no flaws in it whatsoever.  Eric sighed and said, “Let’s go in…” They took their things inside to find all the furniture still there.  Eric said, “Father said he’ll have the furniture for us.  Good thing the previous owners agreed to leave it.” MiYoung sighed and said, “I feel so sorry for the previous owners.  They had to leave this beautiful place.  I'm so sure they loved it.” Eric shrugged and started to unpack.  He picked a room that faced the mailbox and said, “This is mine.” MiYoung picked a room that faced the ocean and sighed.  “Then, this is mine.” The other room was for Eric’s office.  Eric walked around the house and soon, he said, “MiYoung ah.  I'm going outside to see the grounds.  To see if it’s good enough.” ”Good enough for what, JungHyuk shi?” ”Good enough to build a bigger house.  I’ll be back.” Eric stepped outside and walked around.  There were wooden planks surrounding the house.  It was a walkway.  Eric slowly walked around, examining the ground beneath him.  He quickly calculated in his mind.  If this was going to cost more than his father could give him, he needed to find some sponsors.  This was big land… and good land to build a house on.  He stepped down and tested the ground.  It was sturdy.  He nodded his head and thought, ‘Perfect land for building.’  This was what happened when your father owned a huge company of building houses.  Ever since Eric was young, he loved to draw everything.  When he got older, he decided to take architecture as his major and succeeded.  His father founded the Mun Company, and Eric was going to be the next owner.  He had to do his best to follow his father’s footsteps. He walked around until he reached the mailbox.  He cocked his head and shook his head.  Nothing would be in there now.  But as if instinct… or fate, he slowly walked towards it.  He put his hand on the latch and turned it so it made a click.  He opened the cover and peeked inside, expecting darkness.  He saw what was inside and pulled his head away.  There was a light blue envelope.  He frowned and slowly took the envelope out.  He opened it and it read: Hello!  You must be the new owner of this place.  If you’re not, would you be kind enough to give it to the new owner?  This place is beautiful, isn’t it?  I'm Lee JooHee.  My brother, Lee MinWoo, and I used to live here… but we had to move out because the owner wanted it back.  It’s a shame really.  My brother tried his best to keep it for one more week, but we had to move out right away.  We really had nothing to pack.  I would just like to wish you a happy life in this home.  It’s really beautiful.  The sunset… is the most breathtaking event of the day.  I always go out every night… looking at the sun for hours before it set.  But I can’t do that anymore… but I hope you could… I hope you have a nice time! Sincerely, Lee JooHee March 29, 2001 Eric shrugged and shoved the letter in his pocket.  He didn’t care about who lived here before.  He lived here now… and he was going to make the best out of it. Chapter 2 JooHee shouted, “MinWoo oppa!  Can we go today, please?” MinWoo groaned as he got up from his bed and asked, “Today?  Can’t you wait for one more day?  Tomorrow?” JooHee jumped up and down and complained, “I want to go today!” MinWoo sighed and said, “The things I do for you!” JooHee grinned and said, “So can we go?” MinWoo nodded and JooHee clapped her hands happily.  MinWoo glared and said, “Stop acting like a baby!” ”I am not!  I am 15 years old!  I am turning 16 very very soon!  So you can’t call me a baby anymore!” ”Well, you sure act like one!” This reacted into JooHee hitting her brother and MinWoo hit her back.  They went in to a battle of hitting, but they were stopped by a knock on the door. They stopped and they raced to open it.  JooHee got there first and asked, “Who is it?” A muffled voice said, “Me!” JooHee smiled and opened the door.  She held out her arms and hugged the person.  “Hey!  How are you doing oppa?” DongWan shoved her arms away and said, “I'm doing okay.  Ah~ let go!” JooHee laughed and said, “Why?  I wanted to suffocate you.  Oh!  I better get ready, because I'm going to our house today!” DongWan looked puzzled and said, “Isn’t this your house?  What house?” MinWoo sighed as he put on his dark baggy pants.  “Our old house.” DongWan nodded and said, “Oh!  Can I go too?” MinWoo nodded and said, “Sure!” They all got ready and piled into the car. JooHee couldn’t wait to see the beautiful ocean again.  She waited impatiently and when the ocean came into view she screamed.  DongWan and MinWoo covered their ears, causing MinWoo to take his hands off the steering wheel.  The car swerved, but DongWan turned just in time.  JooHee shrugged and said, “Sorry!  Just excited, that’s all.” MinWoo groaned and said, “Thanks, DongWan.  Let’s go.” They got to the house and piled out.  DongWan looked out onto the beach and said, “It is beautiful…” JooHee walked right over to the mailbox and opened it.  Her letter was gone. She smiled and looked towards the house.  She sighed and slowly walked towards it.  Just hope, JooHee… there’s nothing else to do…  Just hope the owner is in there…  Just hope you could get the house back…  Just hope. <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> *earlier that morning* ”JungHyuk shi!  I'm going to buy some food!  I think we’re out!”  MiYoung yelled. Eric nodded from inside his room and said, “Okay!  Be back in at least two hours okay?  You don’t want me to worry, do you?” MiYoung shook her head and said, “Of course not!  Bye!” ”Bye.”  Eric jumped out of his bed and got into his baggy shorts.  He ran into the bathroom and combed his hair.  He had to get to work today.  He had to draw some ideas for new houses.  He walked into his “office” and looked for some paper.  He found a sketchbook lying on the top of a pile of paper and he picked it up.  He flipped through it and nodded approvingly at the pictures of the houses the person had drawn.  He found a blank page and his hands flew over the paper, making sketches everywhere.  A knock came at the door and he slowly walked over with the sketchbook in his hands. He asked, “Who is it?” From the other side of the door, JooHee answered, “This is the previous owner… Did you happen to get my letter?” Eric frowned as he slowly opened the door.  He became face to face with JooHee, and his eyes immediately went to hers.  But JooHee… her eyes went directly to the sketchbook… the sketchbook… HER sketchbook. Chapter 3 JooHee stammered, “Where… where did you get that?” Eric lifted the sketchbook and asked, “This?  I found it on the pile of rubbish in the office.” JooHee took in a short breath and tried not to cry.  She fell to the floor, tears flowing down her face.  “That… that’s mine…” Eric didn’t know what to do in front of a crying girl and looked for the right words to say.  “I… uh… I… you want it back?  I…” Just then, MinWoo ran to the fallen JooHee and asked, “JooHee yah?  What’s wrong?  What did this guy do to you?” JooHee shook her head and said, “The sketchbook oppa… That… remember?” MinWoo’s eyes fell on the sketchbook and nodded.  “Isn’t that the one that I gave you for your 15th birthday?” JooHee nodded and said, “I thought I lost it… He said it was on a pile of rubbish…  I… I didn’t know…” MinWoo patted her back and said, “It’s okay…”  He looked up apologetically at Eric, who was more confused than ever.  He said, “Sorry… my sister is kinda out of it.  I think she wants her sketchbook back.  But it isn’t hers anymore.  We agreed that everything in the house was the new owner’s…  We’ll leave now.  We just stopped by to see our old house.” MinWoo slowly got up with JooHee and she bowed.  “Ahn nyung eeh geh se yoh.  Thank you for letting me see this place again.”  They walked to DongWan, who was waiting, leaning against the car. Eric quickly ran back to get a pencil and he finished his simple drawing.  He always thought that if he started something, he should finish it.  On the next page, he quickly scribbled something.  Then he ran out and yelled, “Hey!  HEY!  WAIT!!” They all stopped and JooHee slowly stepped forward.  “Yes?” Eric caught his breath and handed the sketchbook to her.  “I think this is yours.  Take it… I have no use for it.  Sorry I kinda drew in it though.” JooHee looked at Eric, realizing for the first time how handsome he was.  He wore baggy shorts and a flannel shirt.  He had bangs covering his sweaty forehead and was still gasping for air.  JooHee took the sketchbook and said, “Thank you so much.  You don’t know how much this means to me.  Thank you…” Eric nodded and JooHee went back into the car.  She hugged the sketchbook to her chest and Eric shook his head.  No one was supposed to fall in love with a sketchbook. When JooHee was in the car, she opened the sketchbook to the first thing she had drawn.  She blushed and wondered if the person had seen her drawings.  The first picture was a portrait of MinWoo.  It came out pretty good.  Even MinWoo said so.  The second picture was a picture of the beach house.  She drew it from a very good view and it looked almost real.  The last and third picture was a picture of her dream house.  She grinned and looked at it.  She knew that it was the house she was going to live in when she got married.  She just HAD to get that house, no matter what. She kept on flipping, expecting to see blank pages that she would soon have to fill up.  But the next page was filled.  She studied the picture.  The person that had the sketchbook had obviously drawn it.  It was a perfect picture of a typical beach house.  It was beautiful, even in the picture.  JooHee drew in a sharp breath as she turned to the next page. It had some writing on it that she tried to read.  It apparently said: JooHee~  was it?  I don’t think I had time to introduce myself.  You’re leaving, so I'm scribbling.  I'm Eric Mun… Mun JungHyuk, if you like that better.  When I found this, I saw some of your drawings.  I like them.  Do you think we could meet sometime?  My cell phone number is 203-2939.  If you could make some time to have a drink with me, it would be great.  Thanks. Eric Mun She smiled and thought, ‘Who ever thought that visiting was going to make a difference?’ <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> When JooHee got home, she went straight to the phone.  She dialed Eric’s number and he answered. “Hello?” ”Hello?  Is this Eric Mun?” ”Yes, who is this?” ”JooHee… Lee JooHee.  I was calling about that appointment you wanted.” ”Oh… hi.  Yeah… um… how about tomorrow?  Around 1 PM?  Maybe we could go for lunch.  I’ll meet you… in front of the mailbox… your… er… my mailbox.” JooHee said, “Okay, that would be great.  That would be nice to see you again.” ”Oh, bring the sketchbook with you.” *click* JooHee frowned and didn’t think she had ever heard a ruder person.  Well, he was kind enough to give her the sketchbook back.  So, he was probably nice… He was just kind of shy to people he didn’t know.  Everyone was like that.  Even her. She sighed and went to bed for a nap.  What was she going to do for 24 hours?  She was certainly not going to lie here forever.  She would have to do something. “I know!” she said out loud.  “I’ll call Andy.  He always has something to do.” She dialed her best friend’s number and said, “Hello?  Is Andy there?” ”Yeah, this is him speaking.” JooHee asked, “Really?  Is this really Andy?” ”Yeah… JooHee? How come you don’t think it’s me?” ”You sound so different…” ”Heh… well you haven’t called for a very long time, that’s all.  How’s it going?” ”I'm so bored! You know that we moved from the beach house right?  We live next to HyeSung oppa now.   Do you have some ideas of what I can do?” ”Um… not really.  Hey, is Jin hyung coming back soon?” ”Oh, Jin oppa?  I don’t know.  He said he’s still in Seoul.  But I don’t know.  He sounded awfully close when he called me last.  But he’s probably in Seoul.  Still learning more dance moves.  He has to beat MinWoo oppa.” ”Yeah. Those two always competed to see who could dance the best, cousins or not.  I can’t believe you’re stuck with a brother and a cousin like that.” JooHee groaned and said, “Me neither.  I don’t know how I lived all this time.” Andy laughed and said, “JooHee yah?  Do you think I can come over for awhile?” JooHee said, “Sure!  I'm so bored, I think I wouldn’t even mind if HyeJin came over either.” ”HyeJin?” ”Yeah, HyeSung oppa’s sister, you know.” “Oh, the little baby?” ”Yeah!  She’s so cute!  But she gets really annoying.  She asks questions about everything she sees!” Andy agreed, then said, “Hey, I have to go.  See ya!  I’ll be there in five minutes!” ”Bye~!” JooHee looked at the clock and sighed.  What was she going to do for five minutes now? She had a good idea.  She turned on her music and started to sing.  She held the phone as if it was a microphone and started singing her head off.  It always released her stress.  Soon, five minutes had gone by without her knowing.  Andy was standing in the door, looking at her.  When she saw him, she stopped, turning red.  Andy chuckled and said, “Hey, you’re pretty good.  Keep singing.  I'm your best friend…  Come on.” JooHee shook her head, embarrassed that someone had found out she liked to sing.  She turned off the music and went to the kitchen.  She got out a Coke and threw Andy one.  Andy groaned and said, “JooHee yah…” JooHee smacked her head and said, “Sorry!  I forgot!”  She got the Coke back and handed him a Sprite.  Andy NEVER drank caffeine.  Even if his life depended on it.  Andy was so clean… so pure.  He was so innocent that JooHee tried not to even talk about marriage with him.  Andy drank half the Sprite in one gulp and Joohee laughed.  “Were you THAT thirsty?” Andy nodded and said, “Do you know how hard it is?  Running here?” ”Why did you run?” ”Because…”  Andy turned pink and drank more of his Sprite.   He didn’t want to show his feelings that he had had ever since he had met JooHee in kindergarten.  He had a big major crush on her…  And everyone knew it, except her. JooHee frowned and said, “Why?” Andy shook his head and looked away in embarrassment.  He didn’t want her to know… not while this friendship was going on… not yet. Chapter 4 Andy finished his Sprite and JooHee looked at him, shaking her head.  Andy saw her staring and asked, “What?” JooHee sighed and replied, “I just don’t know how I could live my life like this.  I'm not like most girls you know…  My closest friend is a guy, the people that I'm most close to are guys, especially oppas, and I don’t have any interest for any guy!  Is something wrong with me?” Andy laughed and shook his head.  “No… it’s just that you’re not normal.” JooHee frowned and hit him on the shoulder.  Andy winced and JooHee held her mouth open.  “That hurt?” Andy shrugged and said, “Kind of… Well, you’re strong okay?” JooHee grinned and said, “Guess what?  I have so much to tell you!  Today, I went to our beach house…  And the person that lives there now… his name is Eric Mun.  He found my sketchbook and he drew in it…  He asked if we could meet some time, so we’re meeting tomorrow at 1 PM!  He draws really well, too.  He looks like a nice person, just shy to people he’s not really close to.  You know that type right?” Andy nodded and tried to look at JooHee to see if she had any feelings for this Eric guy.  JooHee avoided his gaze and she closed her eyes.  “Wait… I think the phone’s about to ring.  Wait… wait…” *ring ring* Andy sighed and asked, “How do you do that?” JooHee shrugged and answered the phone.  “Hello?” ”JooHee yah!  WASSUP!” JooHee pulled the receiver away from her ear and said, “Gosh, oppa, the phone is right next to my ear, you don’t have to scream!” ”Heh… sorry!” ”Jin oppa… when are you coming back?  You’re in Seoul, aren’t you?” JunJin said, “No… I'm not at Seoul.  I was though.  I practiced my dancing.  I think I could beat MinWoo now… Heh.  I’d like to challenge him.” ”When? Wait!  MinWoo oppa!  Jin oppa’s on the other line!  He said he wants to challenge you!”  She turned back to the phone as MinWoo came out of his room.  ”When?” he asked.  JooHee shrugged and said into the phone, “When?” Just then there was a knock on the door.  MinWoo said, “I’ll get it!”  He opened the door and laughed.   JunJin was standing there with the phone in his hands.  He asked, “How about right now?” JooHee hung up as they all laughed.  Andy stood up and said, “Hi, hyung!” Jin smiled and said, “Hey, my little dongseng…” Andy shrugged and said, “So, when can we watch the contest?” JooHee clapped her hands and said, “Hey… I have a good idea.  Why don’t we do it tomorrow?  That way, MinWoo and Jin oppa have a chance to practice.  I'm meeting someone at 1, so we could invite him too.  And HyeSung and DongWan oppa.  Can we?” Jin nodded and said, “Okay… you better start practicing now, MinWoo!  I'm going to beat you!” MinWoo groaned and said, “I'm SO scared!” They all laughed and JooHee called HyeSung and DongWan oppa.  They said they were going to come tomorrow.  At 1:30.  She hung up and MinWoo and Jin went out.  JooHee asked, “Where are you two going?  To have a contest without us?” They shook their heads and said, “To practice…” JooHee waved and said, “I hope you have a nice time!  Bye!” JooHee sighed and her and Andy were left alone.  Andy sighed too and they looked at each other.  JooHee asked, “What are you looking at?” Andy shook his head and said, “Nothing…  What are YOU looking at?” JooHee said, “Nothing…” They both laughed and Andy said, “Hey, don’t you think you should ask MinWoo hyung to come with you?  To meet Eric?  What if he’s some private investigator or something…” JooHee shook her head and said, “You watch too many movies.  Andy, chill!  Nothing will happen to me.  MinWoo oppa has to practice anyway.  He would die if he lost.” Andy shrugged and JooHee suggested, “Then, why don’t YOU come with me?” Andy turned to face her and slowly said, “Me?  Why?” JooHee shrugged and said, “Maybe if you’re that worried… And I’d like to show Eric my best friend, who encouraged me as I drew.  After all, I'm going because he liked my sketches.” Andy groaned and said, “Don’t you only have three sketches, though?” JooHee nodded and said, “Oh, I better draw some more!  Hey, Andy, pose for me!” Andy shook his head and JooHee sighed.  “I guess I’ll just draw some houses or something.  It seemed like he was interested in the houses…” JooHee went to her room and brought out a sketchbook and the drawing utensils that she needed.  She started to sketch a house with Andy watching over her shoulder.  She drew and drew until she had filled up three more pages of her sketchbook. She leaned back and cracked her knuckles.  “Whew, that was hard.  Hey, Andy!  I'm going to get some sleep okay?  You could hang around if you want.  Check out our house or something.  Heh, there’s nothing here though.” Andy shrugged as JooHee walked into her room with her sketchbook.  Andy watched her go in and thought, ‘When will you understand?  I like you a lot, JooHee yah… But you just think of me as a best friend…  I look at you and my mind goes blank.  When will you know… But no… I won’t be the one to tell you.  You have to find out on your own.’ He walked out of their house, thinking of JooHee and ways how she could possibly find out… IF she ever did. <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> JooHee got up the next day and looked at the clock.  It was 12 PM.  She threw back her covers, took a quick shower, got dressed, and ate her breakfast… lunch.  It was now 12:45.  She gasped as she called HyeSung.  “Hello?” ”Hello?  HyeSung oppa?  Do you think you could drive me to my old house?  Please?” HyeSung groaned and said, “Come out…” She said, “Thanks!” JooHee got her sketchbook and soon, they were driving down the road, on the way to JooHee’s old house.  JooHee gasped and said, “Oh my gosh!  I forgot… I said I was going to take Andy!  Oh! It’s too late now… keep going oppa.  Can you call him and tell him that I forgot, because I woke up really late?” HyeSung nodded as he pulled up in front of the mailbox.  JooHee got out and yelled, “THANKS!” HyeSung nodded and drove away.  JooHee clutched her sketchbook to her chest and walked towards the mailbox.  She tapped her sketchbook and waited.  No one came out of the house and JooHee became worried.  What if he wasn’t going to come?  What would she do?  Walk back to her new house?  She just stood in the cold and hoped that Eric would come out of the house soon. Chapter 5 Finally, she walked towards the house and knocked on the door.  No one answered and she frowned.  She walked back to the mailbox again and carefully looked at it.  She slowly opened it and found an envelope inside.  She opened it and read: JooHee shi…  I am really sorry that I couldn’t make it.  I hope you figure to look at this before it gets too late.  I had a very urgent business meeting.  I am truly sorry.  We can make an appointment some other time.  I have included some bus fare that will get you back to your house.  I hope it will be enough! Sincerely, Mun JungHyuk JooHee sighed and took out the money.  She counted it and knew that she had enough.  She would probably have most of it left over.  This person didn’t ride the bus, did he?  She walked to the nearest bus stop and got on.  She sighed as she slumped into a seat next to a little girl.  She grabbed the left over money in her hand and decided that she would get some ice cream… Oh no… she had to get home in time to see the contest…  She groaned and thought, ‘Why is my life so miserable?’ Soon, the bus stopped and she got off.  She walked back into the house and Andy was on the couch, waiting for her.  Andy stood up and JooHee said, “I'm sorry, Andy.  But it’s better that you didn’t come.  He didn’t come either.  He left a letter in the mailbox.  I was looking forward to it too!” Andy patted her back and said, “It’s okay.  You could make another appointment.” JooHee sighed and shrugged.  She became cheerful again as DongWan and HyeSung came through the door. HyeSung said, “Whoa, back so early?” ”He didn’t come…” HyeSung said, “Aw… that’s too bad.  Where are MinWoo and JunJin?” Just then, as if on cue, they came in through the door.  MinWoo said, “We’re going to start now, you guys!” JunJin laughed and added, “And I'm going to win!”  MinWoo glared at him as all the others laughed.  DongWan and HyeSung took a seat between Andy and JooHee and Andy frowned.  JooHee didn’t see it, but DongWan and HyeSung both grinned at Andy.  DongWan, who was next to him whispered, “Sorry to butt in!” Andy frowned and shrugged.  HyeSung laughed and put his arm around JooHee.  JooHee looked up in surprise as Andy’s face grew red.  JooHee murmured, “Oppa… what are you doing?” HyeSung said, “What?  I can’t even put an arm around my dongseng?” JooHee shook her head and said, “It’s just weird, because you’ve never done that before.” HyeSung laughed and pulled his arm away.  “Well, when is it going to start?  We’re all waiting!” JunJin and MinWoo popped in the Shinhwa 3rd album and JunJin cracked his knuckles.  “I’ll go first… so you could see how the winner dances.” MinWoo snorted and Only One started.  JunJin started to move his body to the beat with the dance he made up.  It was good… and MinWoo snorted again as he stared. The next song was All Your Dreams.  JunJin was good in THAT, too.  It looked as if MinWoo had no chance.  Next, it was MinWoo’s turn.  He danced to Only One and All Your Dreams.  JooHee clapped her hands with excitement when he finished and Andy leaned forward to look at her.  HyeSung carefully leaned forward, blocking Andy’s view, and smiled at him. Andy quickly turned away and clapped for MinWoo.  MinWoo bowed and said, “Thank you, thank you.” They all laughed and JunJin asked, “So… who was the best?” They all murmured among themselves and JooHee said, “You guys… you guys were both so good…  if I choose one, I don’t think that would be the whole truth.  You guys BOTH did good.” MinWoo groaned and said, “So, we’re tied again?” JooHee nodded and JunJin sighed.  “Girls are ALWAYS fair… Sometimes, they’re too fair.  They don’t have any fun in their lives.  They never get to CHOOSE things… It’s always the right way… never the wrong.” JooHee frowned and shouted, “That’s not true!” JunJin laughed and ruffled her hair.  “I'm just joking around!  You guys want to go somewhere?” DongWan asked, “Where?” JunJin shrugged and said, “Anywhere… to eat.  I'm starving!  All that dancing made me hungry!  It’s my treat.” They all decided on one place and went to eat.  Andy, JooHee, and HyeSung went into one car, and JunJin, MinWoo, and DongWan went in the other.  They all drove to the restaurant and got out.  JooHee breathed in the fresh air and said, “Gosh, HyeSung oppa, couldn’t you have bought an air freshener or something? It smells awful in your car!” HyeSung shrugged and said, “It’s your fault that you farted!” JooHee frowned as the others laughed.  They all went in the restaurant and told the waiter that it was a party of 6.  The waiter frowned and said, “There’s only a table for 5 that is available.  Would you like to take that?” MinWoo nodded and said, “That will be fine.  JooHee could sit on someone’s lap or something.”  They all walked to the table.  DongWan and HyeSung sat on one side, JunJin sat at the head of the table, and MinWoo and Andy sat on the other side.  JooHee sighed and said, “Do I HAVE to sit on someone’s lap?” MinWoo nodded and said, “You could sit on mine then.” JooHee frowned and said, “How about I share a seat with Andy then?  Since he’s my best friend…” They all said, “Fine,” and JooHee shared a seat with Andy.  Andy scooted over as far as he could so JooHee would have most of the space.  JooHee said, “Come on, Andy… Scoot in a little more.  You’re almost falling off the chair.” HyeSung and DongWan grinned at each other, because they knew that Andy did it for her.  They kicked his leg under the table lightly and he fell over, because he was barely on the chair.  They all laughed and Andy sat on the floor, turning red with embarrassment.  JooHee glared and said, “You guys did that, didn’t you?  Goodness, some guys just have no respect for their dongsengs…” She bent down to help Andy and Andy turned redder.  She asked, “Are you okay?” Andy nodded and brushed himself off.  For the whole lunch, JooHee glared at HyeSung and DongWan.  They grew shy under her gaze and didn’t eat much.  JooHee gave most of their food to Andy and said, “Andy, make sure you eat all of this delicious food okay?” Andy nodded and HyeSung and DongWan watched as a person that couldn’t even confess him liking his best friend ate up their food.  They groaned and clutched their stomachs to make JooHee feel bad.  But JooHee didn’t feel bad.  She said, “Well, it serves you right!  You don’t go around, kicking people like that!” Andy held her back and said, “JooHee yah… It’s okay.  It wasn’t even a hard kick.  It was just because I was barely on the chair and they thought it was funny…”  He put his hand over his mouth and realized that he had said too much.  JooHee carefully looked at Andy and asked, “And why would you be barely on the chair? Andy said, “Oh, because I was going to get up to go the restroom and I was deciding if I should…” HyeSung snickered and said, “JooHee yah?  Hey, Andy, sorry to break it to her…   But…” Andy shook his head and said, “HyeSung hyung!  You wouldn’t dare!” JooHee, who was confused during this whole time, spoke up.  “Tell me!” MinWoo laughed and said, “JooHee yah… I'm surprised that you don’t know.” JooHee asked, “WHAT!?  I don’t know what!” JunJin laughed and said, “I even know… and I'm gone most of the time.” DongWan pitched in and said, “Everyone knows except you, JooHee.” Andy put his head in his hands and groaned.  JooHee said, “Well, if it’s going to bother Andy this much… I don’t want to know!  If you guys tell me, I'm not going to leave you alone!” Andy looked up and smiled his thanks.  HyeSung and DongWan laughed and longed for the day when he finally confessed… or someone else had to tell her. Chapter 6   *next day* JooHee called Eric and asked to make another appointment.  Eric said that he didn’t have time this whole week except today.  JooHee and Eric agreed to meet that afternoon in front of Eric’s house.  JooHee told him that she would bring her friends and Eric said he didn’t care.  That afternoon, JooHee, Andy, MinWoo, and JunJin went to their old beach house.  JooHee waited for him outside with her sketchbook while Andy, MinWoo, and JunJin waited in the car.  They were planning to go to a nearby restaurant.  Eric finally came out of the house wearing baggy pants, a beater, and a thin flannel shirt.  Eric looked at JooHee for a long time and finally said, “You brought your sketchbook right?” JooHee nodded and she said, “My friends and I were wondering if you would like to have lunch at a nearby restaurant or something…  It’s our treat.” Eric nodded and said, “Sure…” They all piled into MinWoo’s car and JunJin turned around from the front seat.  “So… you’re Eric?  The one that owns MinWoo and JooHee’s old place?” Eric said, “My father owns it…  Are you JooHee’s friend?” JunJin shook his head and said, “No, I'm her cousin.  Andy’s her friend.” Eric, who was in the middle, turned to face Andy and stuck out his hand.  “Hi, I’m Eric.” Andy nodded and said, “I'm Andy…  I’ve been JooHee’s best friend ever since we were little.  Nice to meet you.” MinWoo looked at his rearview mirror and said, “Yeah yeah… Enough with the hello’s… Where do you want to go?” JooHee shrugged and said, “Let’s just go anywhere oppa.” Eric said, “Can I see your sketchbook?” JooHee nodded and Eric opened her sketchbook.  He looked at the first drawing of MinWoo and said, “You drew your brother?” JooHee nodded and blushed.  Eric said, “No need to be embarrassed about it… It’s good.”  He flipped to the next page and said, “This is the beach house…” JooHee nodded and turned redder.  She took the sketchbook away and turned the page herself.  She skipped the page with her dream house on it and flipped to Eric’s house.  She pointed and said, “This is good too…  You should be an artist.” Eric grinned and said, “I AM an artist…” JooHee’s mouth dropped and said, “What?” Eric said, “Well, my dad and I own a company that designs and builds houses. I draw them, my father approves, and crews build.” JooHee said, “Oh… that’s so cool.”  Eric smiled and took the sketchbook back.  He flipped back and said, “You didn’t want me to see this picture?” JooHee nodded and said, “It’s just a stupid little drawing…” Eric looked at her and said, “It doesn’t seem like one… what is it a drawing of?” JooHee looked down at her hands and mumbled, “My dream house.” Eric nodded slowly as he studied the picture.  MinWoo had stopped the car and opened the door for JooHee.  He stuck his hand out and JooHee laughed.  She put her hand on top of his and jumped down.  Eric jumped down and Andy got down.  Soon, they were all going into the restaurant. Inside, JooHee sat between Eric and Andy, and MinWoo and JunJin sat on the other side.  They were silent until Eric opened up the sketchbook again.  He asked, “JooHee ah… Can I have this drawing?”  He held up the drawing of her dream house and JooHee stared.  Eric said, “I’ll get it back to you as soon as possible.  I just wanted to copy it.” JooHee slowly nodded and Eric smiled.  “Thanks.” Soon, their food came out and they slowly ate.  JooHee looked at Eric more than once and Eric caught her looking at him.  Eric smiled and said, “The food’s great, isn’t it?”  JooHee blushed and said, “Yea, sure.” Andy looked from Eric to JooHee.  He knew that JooHee had some kind of feelings for this guy.  He looked him over and thought, ‘She can do much better, can’t she? He’s just a typical guy you’d see on the streets…  This is stupid.  Why am I here… I should be next to JooHee… holding her hand.  Caressing her.  But I’m too stupid… I'm too stupid to show her that I like… no… love her.  I love JooHee… I love you, Lee JooHee.’  Andy, at that moment, choked on his food and JooHee patted his back. Andy looked up at her and smiled his thanks. JooHee smiled back and Eric asked, “Are you okay?” Andy nodded and MinWoo shrugged.  “He’s just probably thinking… daydreaming about his stupid crush.” Andy glared at him and Eric asked, “Really? Who’s his crush?” Andy glared at them, hoping that they wouldn’t tell… not now. MinWoo and JunJin looked at each other and grinned.  JunJin said, “We’ll tell you later.” Andy let out a huge sigh of relief and looked at JooHee.  She kept on eating, not noticing what they were talking about. MinWoo smiled and said, “Don’t worry, Andy.  We won’t uncover your secret in front of HER.” Eric smiled and said, “I get it… I get it…” Andy groaned as JooHee looked up.  “You guys, let’s go. Are you guys done yet?” Andy quickly got up and said, “Yeah, let’s go.  Please?” MinWoo laughed and took out his wallet.  He paid and they all left.  Eric asked, “JooHee yah… I can have the picture right?” JooHee nodded and said, “Okay… but promise me you’ll give it back.” ”I’ll give it back by tomorrow.  I promise.” JooHee tore the page out and handed it to Eric.  Eric smiled and said, “Thanks.  I know I just met you… I know that you might not trust me yet… But trust me, I’ll get it back to you.” JooHee smiled and said, “I trust you.” Andy looked back and forth from JooHee to Eric and knew that he had no chance to get JooHee back.  She was lovesick… lovesick with Eric. Chapter 7 JooHee jumped on her bed and sighed.  She looked up at her ceiling and thought, ‘What’s happening to me?  Even the ceiling turns into Eric’s face.  Face it, Lee JooHee!  Eric probably has a life, not like you.  He has a girlfriend.  He doesn’t want to see you ever again.  He just wants to copy your picture and give it back.  He’ll probably publish it in a newspaper and say that this was the worst picture that a girl could draw.  Get a life, Lee JooHee!  Eric has no interest in you, whatsoever!’ She screamed into her pillow and MinWoo knocked.  JooHee straightened herself and said, “Come in.” MinWoo stuck his head through the door and said, “Can we talk?” JooHee nodded and patted a seat next to her on the bed.  She asked, “What is it, oppa?  Is something wrong?” MinWoo looked down at the floor and sighed.  “JooHee yah… How old are you now?  You’re 15 now.  You’re a grown woman, JooHee.”  MinWoo blushed.  “I really wish that ummah hadn’t passed away… because if she didn’t, she would be saying this to you.  But ummah and appa leave the talk to me.  I really think you should get a boyfriend.  I know you’re a tomboy… and most of your friends are guys.  But… I think it’s time you should start looking for boyfriends, don’t you think?” JooHee looked at him and asked, “Do you have someone in mind, oppa?” MinWoo sighed and said, “JooHee yah… I have a friend… I want you to meet him.  Is tomorrow okay?” JooHee sighed and nodded.  “I knew this day would have to come.  When you would start wanting me out of your way.” MinWoo hugged her and said, “No… that’s not it, JooHee.  I really love you.  But I think you should learn to love someone else other than your brother… other than your friends.  Just get ready tomorrow, okay?  I’ll call him.” JooHee nodded and said, “He better be good!” MinWoo smiled and said, “He’s my friend’s little brother.  I'm not sure… about his personality.  But his brother is a good person, so I'm guessing his little brother is one too.” JooHee nodded and said, “Then, I'm going to go to sleep, oppa.  Good night!” MinWoo smiled as he closed the door.  “Good night.” <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> “Andy! You promise?” JooHee asked. Andy groaned and said, “Nothing’s going to happen to you.  Why do I have to wait for you in front of the café?  MinWoo hyung won’t like it.” JooHee held onto his arm and said, “Please, Andy!  I'm scared! The truth is… I don’t want to go through this.  I'm doing it for MinWoo oppa.  I already have someone… oh, never mind… Just promise me okay?” Andy nodded and said, “Gosh, the things I do for you!” JooHee smiled and pinched his cheeks.  “Because… I'm your best friend!” Andy groaned and watched JooHee get ready.  MinWoo opened the door and said, “Let’s go.  I’ll drop you off and I have to go to MY date.” JooHee said, “Oh! How is Jinhee unnie?  I haven’t heard from her in a long time.” MinWoo nodded as they stepped out of JooHee’s room.  JooHee peeked back at Andy and held up her pinky.  Andy nodded and MinWoo yelled, “Lock the door when you leave, Andy!” MinWoo and JooHee got in the car and JooHee asked again, “How is Jinhee unnie doing?” ”She’s doing well.  Her parents aren’t pressuring her anymore.  She said she might drop out of Seoul Dae.  It’s too hard for her.” JooHee sighed.  “That’s too bad… she was smart.” MinWoo shrugged and said, “I don’t know…” MinWoo dropped JooHee off at the café and she said, “When are you picking me up?” MinWoo smiled and said, “The guy’s bringing you home.  Don’t worry… it’ll be fine.  Bye!” JooHee waved and took a deep breath as she went in the café.  She hoped that Andy would come.  She went in when a waiter asked, “Are you Lee JooHee?” She nodded and was led to a table.  A guy with a black cap, a loose white sweater, and baggy jeans was sitting at the table.  JooHee leaned and asked, “Are you…” The guy stood up and asked, “Lee JooHee?” JooHee nodded and said, “MinWoo oppa never told me your name.  What was it?” He looked at her and said, “Brian… Brian Joo.” JooHee said, “Oh, nice to meet you Brian.”  She sat down and the waiter asked, “What would you like to order?” JooHee said, “Um… I’ll just have a Coke.” Brian said, “Two.”  The waiter nodded and soon came back with their drinks.  JooHee and Brian sat there, uncomfortable.  JooHee sighed and spoke up, “Look, Brian shi.  I really don’t want to do this.  And if YOU really wanted to do this, I don’t think you would be this quiet.  Don’t tell MinWoo oppa, but I'm not really ready for a boyfriend yet.  So, if you would excuse me… Can’t we just pretend we were together for the whole day?  I’m sure you have things to do.” Brian looked at her and shrugged.  “Maybe we could be friends then?” JooHee nodded and smiled.  “Friends work better than love… for me.” Brian laughed and said, “Me too.” JooHee said, “I hope we could keep in touch.  I'm going to leave.  I have a friend waiting for me.  Thanks.” She got up and said over her shoulder, “I’ll pay,” and stepped out.  She took a deep breath and spotted Andy walking up the sidewalk.  She held her hand up to motion to Andy.  Andy nodded quickly and walked towards her.  But a hand grabbed JooHee that caused her to turn around.  It was Eric.  Chapter 8 She surprisingly asked, “Eric… What…” Eric said, “You met Brian?” JooHee was confused more than ever and stammered, “Yes, but… what does that have to do…” Eric said, “Look, you don’t want to be around Brian okay?” JooHee frowned and said, “We’re not going to see each other.  MinWoo oppa just wanted us to meet… but I don’t think we hit it off.” By this time, Andy had reached them and he glared as he thought, ‘This guy again… When is he going to stop coming into my life?  JooHee’s mine!’ Eric said, “Hey, Andy.” Andy nodded and Eric smiled.  Eric asked, “Do you want your drawing back?” JooHee nodded and Eric said, “It’s at home… do we think we could go back?” JooHee shrugged and said, “Sure… I’ll get to see the beach house while I'm there too.  Andy can come too right?” Eric nodded and said, “Of course.  My girlfriend’s shopping right now, so the house should be empty.”  Just then, a taxi came up and Eric waved his hand.  The taxi pulled over and they all piled in.  JooHee sighed and thought, ‘See… he has a girlfriend.  They even live together!  Stop it, JooHee!  Make the feelings stop!’ They soon reached the house and Eric opened the door.  JooHee took a deep breath and said, “Wow… I’ve missed the beach smell so much.  Staying in all that polluted city made me sick.  Doesn’t the beach smell wonderful, Andy?” Andy nodded and said, “It does…  This place is nice.” Eric frowned and said, “I never took to notice the smells… I just need a place to work… Somewhere quiet.  My dad got back this place… from you guys.” JooHee smiled and said, “It’s nice to know that people enjoy living in this place.” Eric smiled and said, “Your drawing is right here.”  He went into his room and got the drawing.  He asked, “Hey, JooHee… Do you think you could paint the copy I made?” JooHee frowned and asked, “Paint?  Why?” Eric shrugged and said, “I just like drawings with colors… They seem so dead without colors.  I can’t stand having a picture in front of me without them.  I have watercolors… can you paint it now?” JooHee shrugged and said, “Sure.  It’ll just be a quick one okay?” Eric nodded and ran to get the watercolors and brought them to her.  JooHee sat at a table and rolled up her sleeves.  She thought about her dream house and painted the right colors.  She stepped back after she finished and looked at the drawing.  “It’s kind of blank, don’t you think?” Andy glanced over her shoulder and said, “I like it.” Eric said, “It’s nice.” JooHee said, “I’ll clean this mess up.”  She took the cup of water in her hands, but it accidentally slipped out and landed on the floor.  The water leaked everywhere. JooHee gasped and said, “I'm sorry, Eric!” Eric ran to get a towel to wipe up the mess.  He was running back and suddenly slipped on the spilled water.  JooHee gasped and Andy asked, “Are you okay?” Eric nodded and JooHee held out her hand.  “Come on… get up.” Eric took a hold of her hand, but Eric’s weight was too heavy for JooHee to handle.  JooHee slipped as well, landing beside Eric.  Eric and JooHee laughed, but Andy glared at him.  He clenched his fists and tried to hold in his patience.  Him watching Eric and JooHee laugh as they were on the floor made him furious.  He stormed out of the house, bumping into a lone figure coming up with shopping bags.  The figure turned, wondering why a guy would come out of her house.  She stepped in and said, “JungHyuk shi! I'm home…” She looked at the mess before her and saw a stranger beside Eric on the floor, laughing.  Eric looked up and said, “Oh, you’re here, MiYoung.” MiYoung gasped and whispered, “JungHyuk shi… I didn’t know… I thought I was the only… I…” Eric stood up and said, “No… she spilled some water and I slipped…” MiYoung held up her hand and said, “I don’t want to hear it!  I thought you loved me, JungHyuk shi.  I loved you… I really did.  But all you can do… is just walk out on me like this.  You could have at least told me!  I didn’t want to find out like this!”  She burst into tears and stormed out of the house.  Eric sighed and said, “She’ll come back… don’t worry.  I think you should get home.” JooHee grabbed her drawing and said, “Bye.”  She slowly walked away as Eric watched from the window.  He quietly whispered to himself, “But JooHee yah… I wish she wouldn’t come back.  I wish MiYoung wouldn’t come back… I don’t want her to come back… I want you to come back…” Chapter 9 JooHee sighed and looked up at the night sky.  If only… it was true… if it WAS true that Eric loved her.  She shook her head and thought, ‘Lee JooHee! What are you thinking! Eric doesn’t even know you! You don’t even know him! Stop making these feelings come up into your mind.  He doesn’t love you! He loves that other girl… he doesn’t even like you!’ She bit her lip as tears came down her face.  She wiped them off with her sleeve and saw a shadow in front of her.  She looked up to come face to face with a drunken man.  She slowly moved out of the way, but it was too late.  The man saw her and grabbed her arm.  He grunted and his speech was slurred.  “Young school girls like you shouldn’t be hanging out so late.” JooHee pulled her arm away and tried to run.  But the man was too fast, even though he WAS drunk.  He grabbed her and wiped the drool coming down from his face.  He said, “Come with me… It’ll show you not to mess with me… Not to run away.” JooHee said, “What are you doing?  Please, let me go.” The man laughed and said, “I'm not letting you go.  I let my wife go; look what happened to me! She went with some other man… She didn’t love me.  I'm not letting you go… I'm not losing you.” JooHee fought to get free and said, “Please… I don’t even know you.” The man laughed again as he fell to the floor.  JooHee gasped and looked around for help.  She tucked back her hair and said, “Ah juh shi… get up… please… what do you want me to do?” The man’s last words before he fainted were, “Get… Jung… Hyuk…” JooHee frowned but ran back to the beach house.  She got there and knocked on his door.  From inside, Eric slowly rubbed his eyes and turned on the outside lights.  He asked sleepily, “Who is it?” JooHee said, “Please… open up!  Eric shi… help me!” Eric opened the door to find a JooHee with her hair flying everywhere.  Tears were streaming down her cheeks and Eric grabbed her shoulders.  He shook her and asked, “What happened?  What’s wrong?” JooHee fought to catch her breath and said, “This ah juh shi… he fainted… I don’t know who he is… but he said to get JungHyuk.  Isn’t your name JungHyuk?” Eric nodded and grabbed his jacket.  He took JooHee’s hand and let her lead the way to the “ah juh shi.”  When he got there, his eyes grew wide.  “Ah buh jih!” Eric exclaimed.  JooHee had no time to stare at him for an explanation.  She said, “Let’s get him to a hospital or something… or your house.” Eric nodded and put him on his back.  They took a taxi to the hospital and JooHee sat back, exhausted.  Her head slowly leaned towards Eric’s shoulder and he weakly smiled.  The car bumped up and JooHee’s eyes flipped open.  She blushed and mumbled, “Sorry.” Eric smiled and said, “It’s okay… Come on, get out; we’re here.”  JooHee got out and Eric ran in the hospital.  He said, “Excuse me…  It’s an emergency.  My father fainted from intake of alcohol.” The nurse had Eric put him down on a stretcher and Eric’s father was taken into an empty room.  Eric sat down on one of the chairs and sighed, exhausted.  JooHee got him a cup of coffee and asked, “Are you okay?” Eric nodded and JooHee asked, “How… what happened to your father? He was talking about leaving your mother…  He said she left him for another man.  What happened… that is, if you don’t mind me asking…” Eric shook his head and said, “I don’t mind…  Well, when I was young, my father abused my mother.  But I could tell that he still loved her.  He drank a lot because his work wasn’t going well.  My mother ran away and married another man.  He’s been drinking ever since.  That’s why I’ve been taking care of the company for so long.  That’s why I don’t have any friends…” He looked out the window with a lonely twinkle in his eyes.  JooHee smiled and touched his arm.  He looked at her and she said, “I'm your friend, Eric.” Eric put his hand over hers and said, “Thanks.” JooHee smiled and asked, “Oh… something’s been bugging me.  How do you know Brian?” Eric frowned and said, “Brian Joo?” JooHee nodded and Eric sighed.  He said, “Well…  it’s kind of a long story.  I used to go to school with him.  He was really smart…  But he didn’t use it for school.  He used it for clever schemes, as he thought, against other students.  He played pranks on them… and he got in trouble.  He was sent to a school for boys, only boys.  He stayed there and I guess he became better…  But still, you have to be careful.” JooHee laughed and said, “Is that why you don’t think I shouldn’t hang around him?” Eric looked at his hands and blushed.  He whispered, “No.” JooHee frowned and said, “What?  If that isn’t the reason… then what is?” Eric shook his head and said, “Nothing.  I just don’t think it’s safe to hang around with him, that’s all.” JooHee’s hopes fell and she said, “Oh.”  Eric thought, ‘You fool! Why didn’t you tell her! Why didn’t you tell her that you liked her… and you didn’t want to lose her.   You stupid…’ JooHee stood up and said, “I hope… I hope that your father wakes up.  Call me when he does and if he’s okay.” Eric nodded and said, “Okay… thanks.  Bye.  See you later.” JooHee waved and Eric sighed.  He went into the hospital room to find his father awake, leaning against the pillow.  The father hoarsely said, “Is the girl gone?” Eric asked, “Lee JooHee?” The father said, “The girl that I grabbed… I have a faint memory… I think I scared her.  Is she gone, JungHyuk?” Eric nodded and said, “I told her what happened, father.  It’s okay… she understands.” The father weakly smiled and said, “Tomorrow, call her for me… I’d like to thank her.  If it weren’t for her… I don’t think I would have lived.” Eric grinned and said, “Don’t say that, father.  Of course you would have lived.  You just don’t know your own strength.” The father weakly grinned and said, “Don’t forget to call her.”  Then, he fell asleep. <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> JooHee bowed to Mr. Mun and said, “Ahn nyung hah se yoh.” Mr. Mun smiled and said, “I'm sorry for giving you such a scare, young lady.  I usually don’t go that far…  My, my… are you JungHyuk’s friend?” JooHee nodded and Mr. Mun said, “I should treat your parents to dinner some time.  I'm very grateful.” JooHee quietly said, “My parents… died.” Mr. Mun said, “Oh… I’m sorry.”  His eyes were of sympathy and JooHee fought the urge to hug him.  Mr. Mun said, “Then… who do you live with?” JooHee said, “My brother.” ”Then you and your brother shall come to dinner tonight…  With JungHyuk and me.” At this moment, Eric, from the back, stood up and said, “Father, you’re not strong enough to go out.” Mr. Mun laughed and said, “Nonsense! You said that I don’t know my own strength! I guess I should find out how strong I REALLY am.”  He winked at Eric and he groaned.  JooHee laughed and said, “You look so young, Mr. Mun.” Mr. Mun shook his head and said, “Don’t call me that.  I won’t accept a sissy ‘Mr. Mun’ from JungHyuk’s friend.  Call me ah buh jih.  It’ll make me feel more comfortable.”  JooHee blushed and said, “Ah buh jih…” Mr. Mun laughed and said, “Now… go home and tell your brother to come to the hospital by 6.”  JooHee got up and bowed.  “Ahn nyung eeh geh se yoh.” Mr. Mun nodded his head and waved his hand.  JooHee smiled and after she was out of the room, Mr. Mun motioned to Eric.  Eric said, “Yes, ah buh jih? Do you need something?” Mr. Mun laughed and said, “You can’t fool me, JungHyuk.  I saw the way you were looking at JooHee.  You love her, don’t you? I know you’ve never looked at MiYoung that way before.” Eric looked away from his father and straightened up.  “Yes.  I do love her.”  He looked at his father in his eyes and said, “Father, I don’t know much about her.  But from what I DO know, she’s a very nice girl.  She may not have anything, but for me, I think a person’s heart is more important than what she has, father.” Mr. Mun nodded and said, “Very well then.  I approve of her, JungHyuk.” Eric bowed and said, “Thank you father.”  He stepped out of the room, trying to conceal the excitement…  Should he confess to her tonight?  Or should he wait until he had another chance… He decided to think about it later and went out to prepare for the dinner with JooHee… Chapter 10 “JooHee yah! Bbalee gah jah!” MinWoo shouted. “Okay, I'm coming… coming…” MinWoo groaned and said, “Hurry! My motorcycle is going to run out of gas!” JooHee ran out and said, “Okay, how do I look?” MinWoo said, “You like Eric, don’t you?” JooHee blushed and nodded.  MinWoo smiled and said, “He seems like a good kid…  Jal hae bwah!” JooHee smiled and said, “Thanks, oppa.  I love you!” They rode on MinWoo’s motorcycle and got to the restaurant.  JooHee got off and dusted herself off when she saw Eric helping his father out of the car.  She ran to him and closed the door after him.  She bowed and said, “Ahn nyung hah se yoh, ah buh jih…” Mr. Mun nodded and said, “Is this your brother?” MinWoo stepped forward and said, “Ahn nyung hah se yoh.  I’m JooHee’s brother.” Mr. Mun said, “You should be very proud of your sister.  She has helped me… Now, I'm paying her back with dinner.  Let’s go.” They went in, Eric leading his father, and MinWoo and JooHee following behind.  Even though Eric was helping his father the best as he could, he couldn’t help noticing how beautiful JooHee looked.  He helped seat his father and MinWoo seated JooHee.  MinWoo was sitting across from Mr. Mun and Eric and JooHee were sitting across from each other.  Mr. Mun smiled and asked, “What would you like to eat?” JooHee said, “I would like anything that you suggest.  I'm not really used to these fancy restaurants.” Mr. Mun frowned and said, “Then… where do you usually go?” JooHee smiled and said, “Somewhere that’s not fit for you, ah buh jih.” ”And why isn’t it fit for me?” JooHee blushed and said, “It’s… it’s…” Mr. Mun waved his hands and said, “Enough! Don’t try to tell me and take me to this place.  We’ll follow you.” JooHee’s mouth fell open and she smacked herself on the forehead.  <C>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</C> JooHee, embarrassed, led Mr. Mun into the small sullung tang restaurant.  He nodded in approval and said, “This isn’t bad.  Did you know that sullung tang was my favorite gook?” JooHee smiled and said, “Me too!”  She covered her mouth when she saw everyone staring at her.  She grinned and they sat near the door.  Eric sat next to his father, and MinWoo sat next to JooHee.  JooHee couldn’t face Eric, but Eric stared at her.  JooHee finally looked up and Eric asked, “JooHee yah… would you like some fresh air?  It’s kind of stuffy in here, don’t you think?” She nodded slowly and Mr. Mun urged her out.  After they left, MinWoo grinned and said, “JooHee likes Eric, Mr. Mun.” Mr. Mun said, “Nonsense! Ah buh jih to you AND JooHee.  You say that JooHee likes JungHyuk?  Well, JungHyuk seems to like JooHee too.  I gave him my approval today.  He’s probably going to confess, don’t ya think?” MinWoo laughed and nodded. *outside* ”Oppa… you’re not really hot, are you?”  JooHee asked. Eric shook his head and said, “The truth is… I wanted to ask you something.” JooHee, eager to hear what he had to say, asked, “Yes?” Eric took a deep breath and started, “I… I know that you don’t know me that well, JooHee.  We just met last week and you probably just know me as the person that took your beach house.  But if you get to know me, I'm sure you’ll get to know me better.  JooHee, will you go out with me?” JooHee, too shocked to speak, stared at him.  She didn’t think he would ask her to go out with him.  Eric sighed and said, “If you don’t want to, I can wait… Just please, reconsider.” JooHee shook her head and said, “Eric… I will go out with you.  To tell the truth, I’ve been waiting forever for you to ask…  But I didn’t think it would come this soon.” Eric smiled and said, “Really?” JooHee nodded and said, “I liked you… a lot… but I thought that YOU didn’t like me because you didn’t know me.” Eric smiled and said, “Well, I DO like you… and you like me too… So why don’t we start dating right now…” JooHee frowned and said, “But how about ah buh jih and MinWoo oppa?” Eric said, “Oh… they can take care of themselves.  Let’s just tell them that we’re going on our first date.” JooHee nodded and they went back in, holding hands.  MinWoo looked at their linked hands and raised his eyebrows.  “So, you guys are an item now?” JooHee nodded and Eric said, “Ah buh jih…  we’re going to go first.  MinWoo hyung, do you think you could drop my father at the hospital?” MinWoo nodded then stopped.  He said, “But… I brought my motorcycle… don’t you think…” Eric said, “Um… do you think you could grab a taxi? I’ll pay… in advance and get the change.” MinWoo said, “No, it’s fine.  I got the money… I’ll grab a taxi.  Don’t worry about us; have fun!” Eric and JooHee nodded and waved.  JooHee bowed to Mr. Mun and said, “Ahn nyung eeh gah se yoh, ah buh jih!” Mr. Mun smiled and nodded his head.  They went out the door and took deep breaths as the cold, chilly air blew JooHee’s hair and rubbed against Eric’s skin.  JooHee shivered and Eric looked down at her.  “Are you cold?” he asked. JooHee shook her head, then sneezed.  Eric laughed and said, “Babo…” JooHee frowned and looked up, to find Eric’s jacket coming down on her shoulders.  JooHee looked surprise, but smiled at him.  Eric smiled back and JooHee snuggled into the jacket.  She sighed and looked up at the sky.  She picked out a star and made a wish.  ‘Please… let me be happy like this forever…’ Eric looked at her and said, “Where do you want to go?” JooHee shrugged and he said, “It’s our first date… We have to make it special.” JooHee laughed and said, “How about a walk in the park…?” Eric agreed and they took a stroll in the park.  They saw a near dduk bbok eeh poh jang mah cha and went to eat.  After they ate, they were stepping outside when JooHee put her hand over her mouth.  Eric asked, “JooHee yah! Are you okay?” JooHee nodded and said, “Sorry… I just had an overreaction.  I'm fine…”  Her voice drifted off as she fainted.  From the corner, Andy came walking up, eating an ice cream cone.  He saw JooHee faint and put his foot out to run towards her, but decided against it.  If Eric was good enough to be with JooHee, he was good enough to take care of her.  Andy threw his ice cream into a trash can and thought, ‘JooHee yah… I’m letting go of you now… I’m leaving you… I’m giving up on you.’ Chapter 11 JooHee fluttered her eyelids and Eric rushed to her side.  “JooHee yah! Are you okay?” JooHee asked, “Eric oppa!” Eric let out a big breath and said, “Thank God you’re okay.” JooHee smiled weakly and said, “Sorry for worrying you.  I guess I surprised you, huh?” Eric nodded and JooHee said, “I faint a lot… for no reason.  I think it’s some kind of disease…  But I know what happens and the dangers…  Everyone knows except you.  Sorry, I should have told you before.” Eric shook his head and said, “It’s okay.  Just as long as you’re okay now.” JooHee smiled and said, “Did you call MinWoo oppa?” Eric nodded.  Just then, the door opened and MinWoo came in.  “Did you faint again, JooHee?” JooHee nodded and said, “I forgot to tell Eric oppa.” MinWoo grinned and said, “I was worried too.  Her body is just naturally weak.  Don’t worry… It won’t get really serious until she’s around the age of 22…” Eric said, “Oh, what happens when she’s 22?” JooHee said, “Nothing…  MinWoo oppa, can you get me some water?” Eric rushed to the pot of water and poured her a cup.  JooHee smiled and said, “Thanks, oppa.”  She drank the whole cup in one gulp and MinWoo said, “You can go home today right?” JooHee nodded and said, “Why?” MinWoo grinned and said, “Because I have a BIG surprise waiting for you.” ”Who?” ”Just come home and see.  I’m going to go home right now.  Come home with Eric okay…  He’s appropriate too… if he wants to come.  He should.” Eric, “We’ll be there.” JooHee frowned, but decided to put that thought away for a while.  She smiled at Eric and said, “Oppa, you’re so good to me.  Thank you.” Eric smiled and said, “Of course…” <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> Andy punched his bean bag seat and screamed into his blanket.  He looked up at the ceiling and took heavy breaths.  He thought, ‘JooHee… I knew you were too good for me… I'm leaving you now… I'm going to give up on you.’ He took out a picture that JooHee and him had taken a long time ago.  MinWoo had made them pose for the picture.  They were around 14 at that time… they were old enough.  Andy had liked her…  JooHee had a wreath of flowers in her hair and was closing her eyes, kissing Andy on the cheek.  Andy was red, because he remember that MinWoo told JooHee to kiss him on the cheek…  A best-friend-kiss… She thought of it as a best friend kiss…  But Andy thought of it as more… He thought of it as his first kiss… with the girl he loved. <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> JooHee came into the dark house and frowned.  She turned to Eric and said, “I'm sure that MinWoo oppa said to come home, didn’t he?” Eric nodded as he turned on the lights.  They were greeted with a banner that said, “Happy First Night!” Eric and JooHee laughed and from different places, MinWoo, DongWan, HyeSung, and Jin came out.  JooHee smiled and said, “Thanks you guys… Hey…” MinWoo said, “We couldn’t get a hold of Andy… I wonder why…”  He grinned and the others grinned as well.  MinWoo said, “We have more…  COME OUT!” Just then, from the kitchen, a girl with dark brown hair with light streaks came out from the kitchen.  Her hair was tied back, and her bangs were loosely hanging down on her forehead.  She was wearing an apron and she held up the spoon.  “JooHee yah! How long has it been?” JooHee’s mouth formed an “O.”  She ran towards her and hugged her tightly.  “Jinhee unnie… I missed you so much! When did you come?” Jinhee smiled and said, “I came today… I dropped out of Seoul Dae.  I had to…  It was stressful.  But I'm glad to be back with my friends… and favorite dongsengs.” JooHee smiled and said, “Unnie, this is Eric.  Eric, this is Jinhee unnie…  She’s been MinWoo’s girlfriend for 4 years.  They’ve been going on for a long time, huh?” MinWoo laughed and put his arm around Eric.  He said, “Don’t worry…  You guys will last that long… even longer.  The guy just has to be extra nice, that’s all.” JooHee frowned and said, “What is that supposed to mean?” MinWoo laughed and said, “Girls are so ignorant.  They just lay there… being lazy.” Jinhee hit him on the arm and frowned at him and MinWoo kissed her.  They all hooted and Jinhee turned a deep red.  She quickly said, “I have to get back to the cooking…” They all laughed and Eric put his arm around JooHee’s shoulders.  If she was surprised… or if anyone was surprised, no one showed it.  They all laughed, talked, and ate.  Eric was next to JooHee the whole time and always was there when she laughed.  He would laugh along with her and if she was feeling down, he made her happy.  JooHee liked that and she promised herself that no matter what, she wouldn’t lose Eric… not to anyone. Chapter 12 That night, everyone slept at MinWoo and JooHee’s small apartment.  All the guy slept in the living room and Jinhee and JooHee slept in her room.  When the girls woke up early, they found clothes all over the living room.  They looked at each other and sighed.  They started to pick up after the guys when JooHee found something in Eric’s jacket.  She took out the object and stared at it.  It was a notebook.  She lifted her hand to open it, but decided against it.  Then, Eric woke up and asked, “JooHee yah… Do you want to look in there?” JooHee turned around and said, “I'm sorry, Eric.  I was just cleaning your clothes…”  She turned away, embarrassed.  Eric walked over to her and they sat on the sofa.  He took the notebook from her and said, “You could see it… I don’t mind.  They’re all my memories… Written and pictures.  They flipped through the notebook and it was filled with memories of his childhood… his mother. They soon got to the last few pages and JooHee saw her name appear in some parts.  Eric quickly shut the notebook and said, “That’s enough.  Let’s go eat breakfast.” JooHee shook her head and said, “I want to see the rest… Please?”  She looked up at him with such pleading eyes that Eric finally gave up.  He threw the notebook on her lap and went into the bathroom.  She quickly opened it and read the entry. Today I met a girl named Lee JooHee.  She was the one that wrote the letter to me.  She lived in my house before me.  She left a letter and she came back to see the house.  She draws really well.  She’s very pretty too.  I think… if it weren’t for MiYoung, I would like her… Today I met her again.  She’s an interesting girl.  MiYoung left today.  I hope she never comes back.  I really want JooHee to come back…  I think I like her… a lot… JooHee blushed and said, “Oppa… you liked me from the beginning?” Eric nodded and JooHee said, “Me too.” Eric smiled and JooHee reached for his hand.  On that morning, as JooHee and Eric looked into each other’s eyes… they both knew they had found someone they could love… with all their hearts. <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> Everyone went back to their houses and only Jinhee, MinWoo, JooHee, and Eric were left.  Eric looked at his watch and said, “I better be going now.  Bye, JooHee.” JooHee frowned and said, “I don’t want you…”  Then, she fainted.  Eric’s eyes grew wide as he watched JooHee’s lifeless body fall to the floor.  MinWoo said, “Remember, don’t worry about it.  She’ll come back…” Jinhee asked, “When?” MinWoo looked at her and said, “The longest was 15 minutes… It’s fine.  Just do your own stuff…  Eric, you could leave if you want to.”  Eric shook his head and said, “I’d rather stay…  I want to see her wake up… I want to hug her for the last time… today.” Minwoo shrugged and Jinhee and MinWoo went to his room.  Eric sat on the couch and decided to close his eyes for about 15 minutes.  So he didn’t have to endure the pain of seeing JooHee’s body on the floor.  He woke up soon and looked at his watch.  It had been 30 minutes.  He thought that JooHee had woken up by now and was in the bathroom, so he got up.  He almost tripped over her body.  He gasped and yelled, “MinWoo hyung!” MinWoo came out and said, “Hm…?” ”JooHee’s not waking up!” ”How long has it been?” MinWoo asked without any concern in his voice. Eric frantically said, “30 minutes!” MinWoo looked frightened now and said, “What!?  We have to get her to a hospital…  She’s never been out this long before!  Call the ambulance…  No, take her in your car! Hurry!” Eric acted quicker than he had ever had before.  He gracefully picked up her body and ran to his car.  He put her in the back seat with MinWoo and Jinhee sat in the front.  Eric gripped the steering wheel so hard his knuckles turned white.  Jinhee put her hand on his and said, “Calm down… everything’s going to be okay.” Eric loosened up a bit and rushed to the hospital.  When they got there, JooHee was immediately taken care of and the doctors looked to her.  Eric couldn’t get himself to keep still and kept on walking around the hospital, hands behind his back.  MinWoo put his face in his hands and worried about his little sister.  Jinhee had no choice but to watch these two grown men worry over a girl… “Who’s the guardian for her?” MinWoo stood up and said, “I am.  Doctor… is something wrong?” The doctor sighed and took the time to pull off his gloves.  He didn’t talk for a while, and Eric got impatient.  He started to raise his voice, “Doctor! Is something wrong?” The doctor looked at him and said, “Who are you?” Eric turned red and said, “I'm her boyfriend… Is something wrong?” The doctor looked at MinWoo and said, “I’ll need to talk to you in private.  You… guys could see her…” Eric rushed to the room where JooHee was staying and rushed in.  Meanwhile, MinWoo followed the doctor into the doctor’s office.  He motioned to Jinhee but she shook her head and said, “I'm going to see JooHee.” MinWoo nodded as he sat down.  He asked, “Doctor… is something wrong?  We know that she has a disease… she faints a lot.  But she gets up after 15 minutes, and the doctor told us that it wouldn’t get serious until she’s 22.  She’s only 15!  What happened?” The doctor frowned and said, “I'm sorry… But I think you misunderstood.  It’s very serious, right now.  She’ll have to take medication and maybe stay at the hospital if she doesn’t get better.  The problem has started right now.  It will continue until she’s 22.” MinWoo glared at the doctor, afraid to ask… or hear what was next. The doctor looked at him in sympathy and said, “When she’s 22… she’ll… she won’t be here to experience the pain it will cause her.” MinWoo looked at him as tears filled up his eyes.  His JooHee… his little sister… dead at the age of 22.  He stammered, “Isn’t there a way to prevent it?  Isn’t there a cure?” The doctor looked at JooHee’s files and said, “Well, there IS a cure…” ”Then can’t we use that? Can’t we?” MinWoo asked. The doctor said, “It will be very painful for JooHee.  AND it costs…” MinWoo slumped in his chair and said, “If I got the money for you… and JooHee could take the pain, would you let us try the cure?” The doctor said, “I cannot guarantee that it will work.  It’s only been tested on only four people, and so far, one survived.  If you’re willing to take the chance… of her dying right now, or later.” ”Can’t we do… it later?” The doctor sighed and said, “It will be more painful for JooHee.” MinWoo said, “We’ll tell you our decision later, doctor.  I'm going to see JooHee.” He went out, mad at the world… mad at the world because they had to take his sister.  He found Eric and Jinhee looking at the unconscious JooHee and said, “Guys…” Eric rushed to his side and asked, “What happened!” He replied, “I… JooHee…”  He couldn’t find the strength to speak, but eventually, MinWoo told Jinhee and Eric everything.  Eric sighed and tried to hold back the tears.  MinWoo said, “The problem is… we CAN try the cure… I know JooHee will try… but the problem is…” Jinhee whispered, “The money…” MinWoo nodded and Eric’s mouth fell open.  Eric said, “MinWoo hyung…  Money’s the problem?” ”The cost is going to be a lot…” Eric sighed and smiled.  MinWoo and Jinhee stared at him and he said, “I’ll provide the money… just hope that JooHee has the strength… I don’t want her to get hurt.  If anything happens to her, I'm going to blame it on myself.  Because I provided the money… I'm going to blame myself.” MinWoo stared at him and asked, “You’re going to pay the cost?” Eric shrugged and said, “Just what I can… for now.  I think you’ll have to pay at least some of it… later…” MinWoo gave Eric a hug and said, “How can I ever thank you, Eric?” ”Remember…” Eric started.  “Don’t thank me if JooHee doesn’t live… if she doesn’t live, kill me.” Chapter 13 JooHee soon woke up and was told what was going to happen to her.  When she heard the news, she immediately asked, “Did you guys call Andy?  As my best friend, he should know this.” MinWoo said, “I’ll call him right now.”  MinWoo called him and told him about what happened.  Andy asked, “Is she okay?” MinWoo said, “Yeah… if you want to come, we’re in room number 672.  The hospital right near our house.  Come… okay?” Andy said, “Okay…hyung?” MinWoo said, “Yea.” ”Is Eric… there?” ”Of course… he’s been there since the beginning.  They’re going out now…  We had a party for them, but you weren’t home…” Andy said, “Oh… see ya, hyung.” He hung up and let his head drop into his hands.  His tears fell freely as he thought, ‘Even if I didn’t give up on you, it was too late.  It’s too late… Eric got to you first…  I love you, JooHee.” <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> Andy came in with a dozen of yellow roses and JooHee’s face brightened up.  “Andy… you made it.” Andy said, “Of course… anything for my best friend… anything…” JooHee smiled and said, “Eric, could you cut the flowers for me?  And put it in a vase?” Eric smiled and said, “Sure.” JooHee made Andy sit next to her on the bed and asked, “Where were you last night?” Andy said, “Is that when you had the party?  Sorry, I was out… Uh… with friends. But I wish you the best of luck.” JooHee smiled and said, “Thanks! I needed your encouragement… but you weren’t there… but good thing I had Eric right?” Andy laughed uneasily and nodded.  JooHee looked at him and asked, “Is something bothering you?” Andy shook his head, but said, “It’s just that… JooHee, I need your help.  I like this girl… a lot.  I’ve liked her since I’ve met her, but I know she has no interest in me.  What should I do?” JooHee asked, “How do you know that she doesn’t have any interest in you?” He answered, “Because she’s already going out with someone.” Just then, Eric came back in with a vaseful of flowers.  He set it on the table and asked, “Who’s going out with someone?” JooHee motioned Eric to sit next to her on the other side of Andy and said, “The girl that Andy likes… Hm… Andy never told me who he liked before.  This is interesting.  I should get used to it.  Well… I'm not sure, Andy.” Andy sighed and Eric said, “Maybe you should tell her that you like her.  And see what she does.  After all, I confessed and look what happened.”  He smiled at JooHee and JooHee smiled at him back.  But Eric knew that if Andy DID confess, he didn’t know what will happen… what if JooHee decided that she liked Andy? Andy sighed and looked away.  He whispered, “Maybe… I’ll think about it.” Just then, JooHee started to gasp for breath and her last words before she became unconscious was, “Eric oppa… I…”  She became unconscious and Andy ran out of the room.  Soon, he came back with a doctor and the doctor made everyone get out. Andy and Eric watched from the window as the doctor and nurses performed tests on her.  Her heart was still beating, but it was weak.  The doctor came out of the room and said, “Gentlemen… if you want to spend more time with her… you better do it now.  And call everyone that’s special to her.” Eric’s face fell and he asked, “Is she going to…” The doctor shook his head and said, “Just gather everyone that loves her… and she loves…  By three hours.” Eric nodded and begged, “Please save her…”  The doctor looked at him one last time before disappearing around the corner.   Just as the doctor said, Andy and Eric called MinWoo, Jinhee, DongWan, HyeSung, and JunJin.  They all arrived at the hospital within an hour and they all sat in the waiting room.  The doctor came up to them and said, “I have gathered the friends of Lee JooHee for a special reason.  After she wakes up, she will not be able to be in the same room as others.  Not until she finishes therapy.  The cure won’t work if she comes in contact with anyone…  The only exceptions are blood related family members and even them… they have to wear heavy material to cover their skin.” They all stared at him in disbelief…  They were going to lose JooHee… Looking at her happy, bright face…  Missing her laugh that brightened up everyone’s day.  They were all going to miss her. MinWoo said, “Did she wake up yet?  We want the most time we can.” The doctor nodded and the seven people all piled into JooHee’s room.  MinWoo said, “You guys… get out.  Let’s all go in two at a time.  I’ll go with Jinhee, DongWan, go with HyeSung, Jin go with Andy, and Eric… you can go last… alone.” They all agreed and MinWoo and Jinhee went first.  They greeted her and said, “JooHee yah… we love you.  You know about the plan, don’t you?” JooHee nodded as she started to cry.  MinWoo stroked her face and said, “JooHee yah… blood-related people could still come… I’ll always be here okay?” JooHee reached out her arms to hug Jinhee unnie, and they didn’t let go for a long time.  JooHee said, “Unnie… I’ll miss you.  Take care of MinWoo oppa for me…  Please?  Take good care of him okay?” Jinhee nodded as she brushed off a tear.  Next was DongWan and HyeSung.  She managed a weak smile and said, “Look, it’s my two favorite oppa’s.” DongWan smiled and HyeSung tried not to cry.  JooHee smiled and said, “HyeSung oppa… don’t cry.  I'm okay.  We could still communicate.  We’ll call each other a lot… And we could write things on paper and lift it up to see through the window.  It’ll be okay.” DongWan said, “JooHee yah…  You know how much we’re going to miss you… We all love you.” JooHee smiled and said, “Thanks.  Take good care of MinWoo oppa okay? And Jinhee unnie…  Tell me everything that happens!” DongWan and HyeSung nodded and waved.  JooHee said, “Bye…” as Andy and JunJin came in.  She said, “Jin oppa… Andy yah.” Jin went first.  “JooHee yah…  I'm so sorry.  But you’ve got to gather up your strength and go through this… For all the people that love you.” JooHee nodded slowly and said, “Andy?  Are you okay?”  Andy nodded and sniffled.  He looked at her and said, “What should I do about that girl?” JooHee said, “Mmm…  just let her know before she disappears on you… Just make sure she finds out.”  Andy nodded and held her hand tightly.  “I’ll miss you a lot, JooHee yah.  Get better soon, okay?” JooHee nodded and tears streamed down her face as she saw her favorite oppa and best friend leave.  At the sight of the next person, her tears came down harder.  Eric reached for her hand and said, “JooHee yah… heem nae.  I can’t see you suffer like this…  It makes me so mad.  I don’t like to see loved ones hurt.  This is my second time… my father, now you.  I love you, Lee JooHee.  And no matter how much it hurts… do it for everyone that loves you…  I'm looking toward the day you come back…” JooHee nodded and said, “I’ll try my best, Eric oppa.  I love you…  I won’t let you down.”  Eric hugged her and said, “I love you. We could write each other okay?  JunJin hyung or MinWoo hyung can deliver our letters…” JooHee nodded and Eric said, “I have to go now… Bye.” JooHee weakly said, “Bye.” After everyone left, JooHee cried without stopping.  She wondered when she would get to see Eric again… her Eric… Chapter 14 Dearest Eric,       I miss you.  I wonder when I'm going to see you again… when I'm going to have your hand touch my shoulder…  When I get to feel you near me.  I miss those moments that we’ve had… even when we weren’t going out.  I miss everyone… MinWoo oppa, Jin oppa, HyeSung and DongWan oppa… Jinhee unnie…  Andy…  Is Andy doing okay?  Ask him if he confessed to the girl yet… I’m so curious! How are you, oppa?  Since I see MinWoo and Jin oppa every day, I don’t worry about them.. but whenever I DO, I see them with all this material on.  I guess I won’t have anything to do for a couple of days except to wait for your letter.  You better write a lot!  You’ll have more news than me!  Update me on my friends, okay?  I have to know what’s going on.  When I get out of this bed, I have to keep up with what you’re talking about!  Write back, oppa! I LOVE YOU, Lee JooHee ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ My JooHee,       I miss you too!  You’ll see me soon.  I’m thinking of dropping this off at your room and watching you read it from the window…  Yeah, I'm going to do that.  Andy said he didn’t confess yet.  He says he’s trying to get a moment when they’re alone.  MinWoo and Jinee nuna are A.O.K!  They can’t be better…  if I didn’t know better, I would have thought they were married.  HyeSung hyung is doing okay too.  I think he’s really excited about something.  Maybe he found a girlfriend…  I don’t know, but he’s really happy these days.  DongWan hyung was sad after the first days that we couldn’t see you anymore.  We were all sad… but he took it the worst.  I really don’t see much of Andy.  He’s usually at his own house… doesn’t he visit your house often?  MinWoo hyung said he doesn’t visit a lot anymore.  It’s probably because you’re not there anymore…  I really hope he gets to confess… I'm NOT going to have news for you! It will NOT be longer than your letter.  It will be about the same length.  Because I don’t want you to tire your eyes reading my messy writing… Well, I'm going to go to the hospital now… When you’re done reading this, look up and smile at me! Love, Eric Mun ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Eric stood outside the room with the letter in his hands.  He gave it to a nurse and asked her to go in and give it to the girl inside.  JooHee received the letter and finished reading it.  She looked up and smiled at him.  Eric laughed and suddenly, an idea came up to him.  He ran to the front desk and got pen and paper.  He wrote on the paper: JooHee yah! Hi!  He held up the paper in front of the window and JooHee laughed.  She reached for scratch paper and a pen and wrote: Hi, Eric oppa! How are you!? Eric wrote: Didn’t you read my letter? JooHee wrote: Yeah, I did! But you only put that you missed me…  Did you hear from MiYoung? Eric frowned but wrote: No, I didn’t hear from MiYoung… And I don’t want to.  I’ve got my happiness in there. JooHee smiled and wrote: And my happiness is out there… They didn’t write anything for a long time and JooHee wrote: How is ah buh jih? Eric wrote: I should bring him here some day…  How about today?  Should I go get him? JooHee shook her head and wrote: It’s okay.  Bring him when he’s free. Eric shook his head and called his father.  He wrote: My father’s available.  I’ll go pick him up.  Wait here okay? JooHee laughed and wrote: Where would I go? Eric laughed and waved.  JooHee waved back and watched him leave.  She sighed and waited for Eric and Mr. Mun to come…  But the next person that came to visit her wasn’t Eric or Mr. Mun.  It was Andy.  Andy stood there for a long time… just looking at JooHee.  JooHee was closing her eyes, waiting for Eric.  She suddenly opened her eyes and saw Andy.  She waved and he waved back, surprised that she had seen him.  She quickly wrote something on a piece of paper and held it up: Hi, Andy! How are you doing?  Get paper and a pen from the front desk and write like this… and hold it up. Andy did what she said and wrote: I'm fine…  How are you? Isn’t it uncomfortable in there? JooHee wrote: Of course it’s uncomfortable! I miss all of you guys! Did you confess to her? Andy frowned, then remembered.  He wrote: No… I haven’t had the chance to see her lately. JooHee wrote: Why not? Andy sighed and didn’t answer for a long time.  He carefully, and slowly wrote: Because… I can’t… I can’t tell her the truth.  If I do, it will just hurt her more.  JooHee yah, someday, you’ll understand.  Someday, everyone will understand.  No, everyone DOES understand… You’re the only person that doesn’t.  Someday, when the time comes, I’ll confess.  I promise, JooHee. JooHee read it and thought for a long time before she wrote: Okay, Andy.  I understand.  But when you confess, tell me! Andy smiled and wrote: Don’t worry; you’ll be the first to know. Just then, Eric came back with Mr. Mun.  Eric said, “Hi, Andy! Nice to see you again.  Here to see JooHee right?”  Eric winked at Andy and he blushed.  He said, “I was just about to leave.”  He waved at JooHee and said bye to Eric.  He saw Mr. Mun and said, “Ahn nyung eeh geh se yoh.” He hurried out and Eric started writing.  JooHee yah! I'm back!  Ah buh jih says hi too. JooHee bowed from her bed that caused Mr. Mun and Eric to laugh.  JooHee wrote: Ahn nyung hah se yoh, ah buh jih… Have you been well? Mr. Mun shook his head in sadness and Eric wrote: Father says that he’s okay, but now, YOU’RE the one in the hospital.  JooHee smiled and wrote: Yes, I know…  I hope you won’t get sick. Mr. Mun nodded and started to cough.  JooHee looked worried and wrote: Eric oppa… I think you should take him home soon.  He’s going to catch a cold if he stays in a hospital with all these germs.  Eric nodded and JooHee wrote: Ahn nyung eeh gah se yoh, ah buh jih!  Dress warmly and eat well! Mr. Mun nodded and held up his hand.  JooHee bowed, then waved.  Eric waved and she watched them go out.  She sighed and leaned back on her bed.  She decided to take a nap and quickly fell asleep. Chapter 15 MinWoo sighed and leaned against the door.  JooHee was eating and he didn’t want to bother her.  He thought about all the things that had happened ever since JooHee had to stay in the hospital.  It had been a year now and everything was going smoothly.  But he listed them one by one.  First of all, JooHee and Eric had become closer, despite the fact that they couldn’t talk to each other face to face.  Second, Andy still hadn’t talked to JooHee about him liking her.  Third, MinWoo was thinking about getting engaged to Jinhee.  Last of all, and most important, the doctor had told them a month ago that JooHee had a weak heart…  If she didn’t get a transplant in about two month, she wouldn’t be able to live. After JooHee heard the news, she didn’t eat for two weeks.  The doctor finally got her to eat, telling her that if she didn’t eat, her life would be shortened even more.  She finally started eating and she was gaining more weight.  She was eating now, and MinWoo didn’t want to bother her. At first, Eric refused to believe it.  He shook his head and stayed silent when someone tried to talk about it.  But they all knew they had to find a donor before it was too late.  The doctor told them it had to be a heart with the blood type B, because that was JooHee’s.  It had to be a healthy one, too.  The hearts on the donor list were mostly A’s. They only had about two weeks left to find a healthy heart.  Before it was too late…  After the nurse came out with the whole plate of food gone, MinWoo went in.  He said, “JooHee yah… Did you sleep okay?” JooHee nodded and said, “Oppa… you know that you don’t have to wear the material anymore.  Remember? The doctor said you could stop from today… And people could visit me inside, now.  The cure didn’t work… and the only hope is to get a heart…” MinWoo nodded and took off the heavy plastic that he was wearing.  He looked at JooHee for a second and finally hugged her.  JooHee hugged him back and burst into tears.  She sobbed, “Oppa…  I love you… Don’t ever forget that…” MinWoo brushed away her tears and said, “Babo…  Why are you saying that?  I know you love me… and I know that you know I love you.  We don’t have to say that to each other…  You sound like you’re going to die!” JooHee weakly smiled and said, “Oppa, I'm only saying that because I know I'm going to die soon.”  She paused then added, “When is Eric oppa coming? He said he was so excited to see my face again…” Just then, footsteps echoed in front of her room.  She looked up, expecting Eric.  But it was Andy.  She smiled and said, “Andy!” Andy looked up and asked, “Can I come in, now?” JooHee nodded eagerly and held out her hand.  He took it and sat down.  JooHee asked, “Have you seen Eric, by any chance?” Andy sighed and shook his head.  JooHee said, “Oh…  Andy, I missed you so much!”  Andy nodded and JooHee asked, “So, did you confess to the girl, yet?” Andy shook his head and MinWoo said, “I'm going to go look for Jinhee.  I have a very important question to ask her.”  He winked at JooHee and she exclaimed, “Oppa!  Are you really going to ask…”  MinWoo laughed and said, “I'm just thinking of engagement…” JooHee laughed and said, “Jinhee unnie will be so happy! You don’t know how much she loves you!” MinWoo chuckled and went out.  Andy looked at JooHee and she asked, “What?” Andy shook his head and said, “It’s just… really good to see you.  Writing between that window was uncomfortable.  But it got our messages through, didn’t it?” JooHee nodded her head and suddenly, her face brightened up.  She said, “Eric oppa!” causing Andy to turn around.  He stood up and said, “Hey, Eric.  I’ll leave you two alone for awhile…”  He stepped out, in pain that he wasn’t the one alone with JooHee.  Eric leaned down and gave her a quick peck on the cheek.  JooHee blushed and Eric said, “Wow… I finally get to see your eyes again.  They’re even more beautiful…  after such a long time.” JooHee nodded and Eric said, “JooHee yah…”  He took her hands and looked into her eyes.  “JooHee yah… I’ve missed you so much.  I couldn’t stop thinking about you.  Last night, I couldn’t sleep… I was thinking about you.” JooHee said, “Oppa… I love you.  I always will.”  Eric whispered, “Me too…  I always will… no matter what happens.” JooHee put her head down and said, “But oppa… promise me something.” Eric said, “Hm?” ”Promise me… when I die, please… don’t forget about me.  Keep me in your heart…  But please… find someone else to love.  So that lucky person will receive the love that you’ve given me.  Please, oppa?” Eric looked shocked but quickly recovered.  He shook his head and held her hand tighter.  He firmly said, “I won’t let you die… I promise…” JooHee cried into his shoulder and Eric held her… stroking her hair.  He wished that this would go on forever.  But from the window, Andy watched in sadness.  He sighed and sat down on a bench.  He thought, ‘JooHee yah… I’ve liked you for so long…  Can’t you forget about him? Can’t you love me… No, you probably can’t.  I tried to give up on you; I can’t…’  He looked at her again and a pain went through his heart.  He knew that no matter what, JooHee wouldn’t come to him… no matter how hard he tried… Chapter 16 A week had passed… There had been one available heart.  They had decided to try the transplant.  So that morning, HyeSung, DongWan, JunJin, Andy, Eric, and MinWoo stood in front of the operation room, waiting.  Jinhee came running and said, “MinWoo shi…”  MinWoo hugged her and kissed her.  Jinhee asked, “How is it?” MinWoo said, “They’re doing it right now…  The doctor will give us the news right when they know…  if she’s going to live…” Jinhee started to cry and said, “Our little JooHee… she doesn’t deserve this… She was such a sweet little girl.  How could God do this to her?  Our JooHee…” MinWoo comforted her and the doctor came out.  They all stood up, waiting for the news.  He looked at MinWoo and said, “I'm sorry…  Her body wouldn’t accept the heart.”  MinWoo’s face fell and the doctor said, “But…  she survived.  It was a miracle, but she survived.  We need to find a heart… fast.  She’s running out of time.  For the next two days, she needs to rest.  No one is to visit her…  Only look at her.” They all nodded, relieved that JooHee was still alive.  Eric shook his head and tears started coming down his face.  He ran away from the hospital… and he ran to his beach house… JooHee’s beach house… ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Eric slammed down the box standing next to the door and fell to the floor, shaking his head.  Why did JooHee have to go through this?  Why couldn’t he go through it?  He looked at the fallen contents and slowly started to pick them up.  He saw a picture from long ago and slowly picked it up.  It was the drawing of JooHee’s dream house.  He looked at his computer and turned it on.  He started to design a simple sketch of the house.  Then, he called his father. “Hello? Junghyuk?” ”Ah buh jih…  could you do me a favor? Do you think your workers could build a house for me?” ”Bring the blueprints… I’ll see what I could do.” Eric printed out the sketches and went to his father’s office.  He set them down on his father’s desk and his father asked, “Who wants this house?” Eric answered, “JooHee does… Ah buh jih… please.  Please try your best to make this house.  It’s her dream… Please, ah buh jih.”  His father nodded and said, “I’ll make my workers finish this house before anything else.”  Eric thanked his father and went back to his house.  He tripped on a photo album and he picked it up.  He opened it to the first page, which held his birth certificate.  He chuckled at his small face then read the bottom.  Name: Mun JungHyuk…  DOB: February 16, 1979…  Sex: Male…  Blood type: B… He slowly set the photo album down and thought about what he had just read.  “Blood type… B… blood type… B…” he said over and over.  Then he thought, ‘My heart is healthy… my heart is healthy…’  He thought about it, but it didn’t take long.  He ran back to the hospital… quickly before it was too late. <C>~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</C> The doctor nodded and said, “Are you sure about this?” Eric looked him in the eye and said, “I'm sure about this.  If it’s for a person I love, I could do anything.  Do not try to change my mind; you’re going to find it very difficult.” The doctor nodded again and said, “When do you want it to be?  You’re making a big sacrifice, son.  You’re giving up your life.” Eric looked at him again and said, “You’re a weird person, doctor.  Don’t you think that I know that? I know I'm giving up my life.  But in doing that, I'm saving the life of someone I love.” ”There is a chance that it might not go right.  And both of you may die.” ”I think if JooHee lives, I will be happy that I gave up my life to have let her live.  But if we both die… then we’ll be together…  Either way, JooHee will gain from it.  I am not shaken by my decision.  Tonight, doctor.  Get ready for it, tonight.” The doctor nodded and Eric stepped out of his office.  He put his hand over his heart and felt it thumping.  He whispered, “It’s going to be beating in JooHee’s body soon… She could just feel its beat and feel me…” That night, he was in front of the surgery room with HyeSung, JunJin, DongWan, MinWoo, Jinhee, and Andy.  They were all in silence and the doctor came out and indicated to Eric that he was ready.  Eric nodded and turned to Andy.  He said, “Andy…  After I'm gone… Be good to JooHee for me.  Take good care of her.”  Andy nodded and Eric turned to MinWoo.  He handed him a small envelope and asked, “MinWoo hyung…  Can you give this to JooHee after she’s wakened up?  Don’t tell her what happened… Can you just give her this letter? It will explain everything.” MinWoo took the envelope and hugged him.  He whispered into his ear, “I love you for this, Eric.”  Eric nodded and his eyes went to the back of the hospital.  His father was waiting for him.  His father looked at him with an empty look in his eyes.  Eric ran to him and hugged him.  He said, “Ah buh jih… don’t worry.  I’m doing this for a good reason… For JooHee.  Just as much as you loved ummah, I love her.  Don’t worry…  I’ll make sure that she visits you often… so you could feel my heart beating inside her.  Just finish that house, ah buh jih.”  His ah buh jih tried to hold back the tears and nodded.  Eric gave him a last hug.  He walked to his friends and hugged every one of them.  He went in and waved.  They all waved at him, amazed at the courage and bravery.  The operation began.  The doctors moved quickly and swiftly. Right before they took out the heart of Eric’s body, he managed to get out a small whisper.  He looked at JooHee, lying on the bed next to him.  “I… love… you…”  Then… there was no more left of Eric… except his heart beating faintly in JooHee’s body. Chapter 17 Two days later, JooHee opened her eyes.  She slowly looked around to find MinWoo looking at her.  She asked, “I'm alive?  Did the operation work?” MinWoo nodded and she asked, “What happened?  Where is everyone? Where’s Eric?” MinWoo winced at the last question and handed her the envelope.  She asked, “What’s this?”  She opened it, and read it.  It said: My beautiful JooHee~     I’ve written so many letters to you… And to think that this is the last one.  By the time you’re reading this…  I’ll be in heaven, looking down on you.  I’ll be sure to send you a guardian angel.  I was looking at my birth certificate and I realized that my blood type was B… the same as you.  Isn’t that amazing?  I think it’s fate…  But it’s also fate that I had a healthy heart and you had a weak one.  JooHee yah…  Take good care of that heart…  Whenever you feel it beat, think of me.  That way, I’ll always be living in you…  After you get better, go to my father.  He’ll have a surprise waiting for you.  Goodbye, JooHee.  Stay healthy and make sure you eat! I love you… forever. Love, Eric Mun JooHee slowly put the letter down and looked at MinWoo.  She shook her head and screamed.  Andy came rushing in and looked at her.  JooHee, tears streaming down, looked up at them and said, “Where’s Eric! Where is he?! I know he’s here somewhere! You’re hiding him from me! Do you want me to have a heart attack?  This letter can’t be true! Where is he?!  Where is he…” She burst into tears and soaked her sheets.  MinWoo hugged her and whispered, “JooHee yah… No matter what, he’ll be inside of you… His heart is inside of you.”  JooHee grabbed at her shirt, clutching where her heart was.  She felt it beating and whispered, “Eric oppa… Your heart… in my body.  We’re one person, now.  I’ll always remember you… Never forget you… You were true to your word… You didn’t let me die, but did YOU have to leave…? Why did you have to leave me?” She sobbed and MinWoo went out.  Andy looked at her, pain striking his heart.  I could have made her happy…  I could be next to her… I should be next to her…  He slowly walked towards her and sat down.  He waited until her crying lessened a little and sighed.  JooHee looked up at him and said, “Andy… you’re my best friend.  You’d tell the truth.  Did he really leave me here? Is this heart his?” Andy nodded and said, “JooHee… don’t worry… As long as you’re living, he’s living.” JooHee’s tears kept on coming and Andy said, “JooHee yah…  Don’t worry.” JooHee stopped crying, but she still was still sniffling.  She said, “Andy? Do you think you can take me to Mr. Mun? Eric said… he wrote that his father would have something for me…” Andy nodded and after a long time of getting ready, they got into a taxi.  They shortly arrived at the Mun company and JooHee ran in.  She saw Mr. Mun and asked him what the thing that Eric prepared for her was.  He said, “When the time comes… I will tell you…”  She sighed and said, “Ah buh jih… I want to thank you…  very much…”  Mr. Mun nodded and told JooHee to go… *If you have Click B Third Album, turn to track 7: Eeh byul ahp eh suh* JooHee left and they got in a taxi again.  They were silent for a long time until Andy finally turned to JooHee and said, “JooHee yah… I know you’ve been hurt.  But do you think… that for me…  Do you think you could love me? I'm not telling you to forget about Eric, but do you think you could love me?” JooHee looked at him and said, “I DO love you, Andy.” Andy shook his head and said, “No…  not in that kind of way… like the way you loved Eric…” JooHee looked at him and stared.  She didn’t know what to say.  Then she thought about all those times that were obvious that he liked her… She wondered why she hadn’t noticed before…  Probably because she was in love with Eric… she didn’t notice that her best friend loved her. <I> Andy held her back and said, “JooHee yah… It’s okay.  It wasn’t even a hard kick.  It was just because I was barely on the chair and they thought it was funny…”  He put his hand over his mouth and realized that he had said too much.  JooHee carefully looked at Andy and asked, “And why would you be barely on the chair? Andy said, “Oh, because I was going to get up to go the restroom and I was deciding if I should…” HyeSung snickered and said, “JooHee yah?  Hey, Andy, sorry to break it to her…   But…” Andy shook his head and said, “HyeSung hyung!  You wouldn’t dare!” JooHee, who was confused during this whole time, spoke up.  “Tell me!” MinWoo laughed and said, “JooHee yah… I'm surprised that you don’t know.” JooHee asked, “WHAT!?  I don’t know what!” JunJin laughed and said, “I even know… and I'm gone most of the time.” DongWan pitched in and said, “Everyone knows except you, JooHee.” Andy put his head in his hands and groaned.  </I> She sighed and looked at him.  She opened her mouth, but closed it again.  She said, “I don’t know what to say Andy… I’m sorry I’ve been so blind…  But I love Eric oppa… and even though he’s gone, you even said he lives inside me…  And I don’t think I could love someone else… with HIS heart.” Andy quickly nodded and said, “I understand.”  Then, he asked the taxi driver to stop the car, and he walked home. *turn off music ^^* Epilogue “Ah buh jih! Your breakfast is ready!”  JooHee yelled. Mr. Mun came down the stairs and said, “I'm not deaf, child.” JooHee giggled and said, “I'm sorry…  your breakfast is ready.” JooHee and Mr. Mun had been living together for five years now.  They lived in JooHee’s dream house.  JooHee had thought that since Mr. Mun had loved Eric as much as she did, they should share memories of Eric together.  So they decided to live in the house that Eric had wanted built for her. She said, “Ah buh jih, I'm going to take a walk…” Mr. Mun nodded and said, “Today… would have been Eric’s 24th birthday.” JooHee nodded and went outside. She walked outside and felt the sand on the beach.  She sighed, looking at the sunset.  Her white dress brushed against her legs and she felt a teardrop fall on her foot.  She looked at the blue sky and thought, ‘Eric oppa… I still feel you… You loved me… I love you… I love you so much I can’t love anyone else…’  She still winced at the thought of Andy’s face when she refused him.  She put her hand over her heart and thought, ‘I love you Eric oppa… I always will… As long as your heart is in me, you’re in me…  I’ll never forget you, because I AM you.’  She let the last tear drop in the sand and slowly walked back to the beach house… the house that Eric had made built for her… the only thing she had that was left of him…  Except… his heart… beating strongly inside of her… giving her strength and love.      END ***************************************