Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Yujin was used to first-class treatment; velvet seats, champagne before takeoff, and the quiet talking of people who knew her last name could afford to buy if not half, the whole cabin. But she was not used to having her breath stolen.

It happened the moment the flight attendant stopped at her seat.

“Good afternoon, Ms. An. Can I get you anything before departure?” The woman asked.

Yujin stared a second too long. The name tag read Jang Wonyoung but Yujin had already decided she looked more like trouble wrapped in perfection.

“I..yeah. Water. Actually, no. Tea..or uhm, surprise me.” She said, sounding uncharacteristically disoriented.

Wonyoung gave a polite smile, the kind she reserved for difficult passengers. “I’ll bring you something you’ll like.”

Yujin watched her walk away like she’d just been given the in-flight entertainment.

Ten minutes later, Wonyoung returned with a delicate glass of iced lemon tea.

“For you.” She said.

The heiress accepted it slowly, fingers brushing the flight attendant’s on purpose. “You’ve got good taste. In tea and…presentation.”

Wonyoung blinked once, keeping her professional composure. “Let me know if you need anything else.”

“Oh, I will.”

— — — 

Mid-flight, Yujin rang the call button for the third time.

Wonyoung approached, hands politely folded. “Yes, Ms. An?”

“You keep calling me that like we’re strangers. Call me Yujin.” She said, grinning.

The tall girl exhaled silently. “Alright. What can I do for you?”

Yujin pointed at the cookie in front of her. “Can I get another one of these? They’re good. Or maybe you’re just distracting me from how average the cookie is.”

“That cookie is imported from France.” Wonyoung replied.

“Then I take it back. It’s expensive and beautiful, like you.”

There was a pause. Wonyoung didn’t roll her eyes, didn’t sigh. She just gave the faintest smile that said: I deal with billionaires and babies, you’re not the worst.

“I’ll bring another.”

— — — 

Later, Yujin pretended to need help lowering her seat. Then she claimed her neck pillow was “aggressively uncooperative.” And before landing, she requested sparkling water because “the regular kind feels poor.”

Each time, Wonyoung handled her with the patience of a saint and the poise of someone who had seen far worse.

“You know, for someone who deals with annoying people, you’re weirdly graceful about it.” Yujin said as she get handed the sparkling water.

Wonyoung arched a brow. “Are you admitting you’re annoying?”

“I’m admitting you’re distracting.”

— — — 

When the plane landed and people began filing out, Yujin waited until the aisle cleared. Wonyoung stood near the exit, thanking passengers as they leave.

Yujin stopped in front of her instead of walking past.

“So,” She began, voice suddenly softer but still confident. “I know I’ve been…persistent. But I meant everything I said. You’re gorgeous and I’d like to know you outside of seat 1A.”

Wonyoung held her gaze, calm and unreadable. “Passengers usually say thank you and leave.”

“I can say thank you. Thank you…and give me your number?”

It was bold, even for her. Yujin knew she got her way most of the time, but she didn’t expect for this to be easy.

Wonyoung hesitated, but there was a tiniest curve at the corner of her lips. “You realize I don’t give my number to random heiresses in first class.”

“Good thing I’m charming, not random.”

That earned a quiet laugh, small but real.

The flight attendant pulled out a small slip of paper and wrote quickly before handing it over.

“Don’t make me regret it.”

“Oh you absolutely will.” The heiress said, beaming. “But you’ll enjoy it first.”

Wonyoung shook her head and stepped aside to let her pass.

As Yujin finally walked off the plane, she glanced at the number again and grinned like she’d just closed the smartest deal of her life.

— — —

Wonyoung was wiping down the counter when Jiwon, one of the other attendants, rushed up with panic written all over her face.

“Wonyoung-ah, I’m so sorry to ask you this last minute, but my sister just went into labor.” Jiwon’s hands were already shaking as she clutched her phone. “Can you switch rotations with me? I need to take the first flight back home.”

Wonyoung didn’t even hesitate. “Of course. Go. I’ll tell Park Sunbaenim.”

Jiwon hugged her tightly, thanking her saying she owed her and sprinted off. The switch meant Wonyoung’s next assigned flight was pushed back 24 hours. She’d have to stay in Paris until tomorrow evening.

Honestly, it was not the worst place to be stranded, the only problem was she’d only packed for a twenty-hour round trip, not a spontaneous mini vacation.

Her phone buzzed just as she stepped into the crew shuttle.

Unknown Number:

Is this the gorgeous patient flight attendant from 1A’s personal fantasy?

She sighed, but she was already smiling.

Wonyoung:

Who is this?

Unknown Number:

Wow. So cold. It’s Yujin. The extremely charming, very polite heiress who complimented you only twelve time today.

Wonyoung:

Twelve? I counted thirteen.

Unknown Number:

You were keeping track. I’m honored.

Wonyoung tucked the phone in her lap as the shuttle pulled away from the airport. She could already feel her headache forming at the thought of figuring out a hotel and a new uniform for tomorrow’s shift.

Her phone pinged again.

Yujin:

Did you make it to your next flight already, or are you still in Paris?

Wonyoung:

Still here. One of my coworkers had a family emergency, so I switched shifts. I’m grounded for 24 hours.

The typing bubbles popped up instantly, like Yujin had been waiting for that.

Yujin: 

Stuck in Paris with nothing to do? Heartbreaking.

Wonyoung rolled her eyes but didn’t stop the smile forming.

Wonyoung:

It’s fine. I’ll just find a cafe and nap somewhere until tomorrow.

Yujin:

Absolutely not. That’s illegal in at least seven countries, including France, because I decided it is.

Wonyoung:

And what do you suggest instead, Ms. An?

Yujin:

Dinner. With me. Unless you’re busy alphabetizing complimentary snacks somewhere.

The flight attendant stared at the screen, unsure if she should laugh or groan.

Wonyoung:

You’re serious

Yujin:

I’m rich. I don’t know how to joke about plans. I’ve already mentally ordered the wine.

Wonyoung:

You’re very sure of yourself for someone I met six hours ago.

Yujin:

I’m sure of my taste. Which is currently you.

She hesitated. Then she looked out the window at the sunset showing into the Paris skyline. She did have 24 hours and Yujin, she was ridiculous yes, but she was also warm, disarming and far more charming than she had any right to be.

What else was she going to do? Count pigeons near Seine?

Wonyoung:

Fine. One dinner.

Yujin:

You say “one” like I won’t stretch it into two courses, wine and a life plan.

Wonyoung:

Don’t push it.

Yujin:

Text me your hotel. I’ll pick you up in an hour.

Wonyoung:

An hour is too soon.

Yujin:

Then I’ll wait in the lobby looking handsome until you show up.

Wonyoung actually covered her face with her hand. But she sent the address anyway. And when her reflection smiled back at her in the shuttle window, she pretended not to notice.

— — —

Wonyoung stood in front of the tiny hotel mirror, trying to smooth the crease out of the one semi-decent outfit she packed. She hadn’t planned on spending a night in Paris so her options were limited.

Black fitted slacks and a cream camisole layered under a cropped cardigan. It wasn’t extravagant, but the way it hugged her figure made it look intentional. Elegant and effortless, she looked good on it.

A few minutes later, her phone buzzed.

Yujin:

I’m at the lobby. Don’t worry, I only made a little scene.

Wonyoung took a breath, checked herself out one last time and headed down.

The moment the hotel doors slid open, she froze.

Parked out front was a sleek black sports car, glossy, low to the ground, luxurious, definitely screams old money. People were actually slowing on the sidewalk to stare.

Leaning against the driver’s side door was Yujin.

Black slacks tailored within an inch of perfection, long sleeve dress shirt tucked neatly, sleeves rolled slightly at the forearm, short dark hair styled like she was born camera-ready. And an expensive looking watch that matches everything.

When she saw Wonyoung, her posture changed. Straightening and eyes widening.

“Wow.” Yujin said openly, not even trying to hide it. “You look..yeah. That should be illegal.”

Wonyoung blinked, not sure if she should be embarrassed or displeased. “I didn’t exactly have much to choose from.”

“I meant it as a compliment. Simply beautiful.” Yujin assured, circling to open the passenger door. “Please step into my bad financial decisions.”

Wonyoung slid into the car, trying not to get swallowed by the soft leather seat. Yujin got in on the driver’s side and started the car.

As they pulled into traffic, Wonyoung glanced sideways, not at the car but at the girl next to her. The open collar, the clean scent of expensive cologne, one hand loose on the wheel.

She looked good, no, she looked great.

“You’re staring.” Yujin noticed, not taking her eyes off the road, a smug curl at her lip.

“I’m checking if your driving is worth the ego.” Wonyoung deadpanned.

“Don’t worry, the ego comes with airbags, you’re safe with me.”

— — —

The restaurant was the kind of place that has soft lighting, quiet jazz and tables spaced so far apart; private. A host greeted Yujin by name, without reservation and led them to a window seat overlooking the beauty of Paris.

Wonyoung sat, smoothing her cardigan. Meanwhile, Yujin looked like she’d just taken a break from owning the building.

When the menus arrived, they ordered and an expensive bottle of wine, which probably cost a month of mortgage payment, was brought and poured to their glasses.

Yujin rested her chin on her hand, studying her like she was more interesting than the view.

“So, Wonyoung. Is this the part where you tell me you’re secretly married or allergic to billionaires?” She asked, tone playfully but soft.

Wonyoung sipped her wine. “I’m allergic to arrogance.”

“And yet here you are. Sitting across from it in a silk top.”

“It’s polyester.” 

“You wear it like it’s custom.”

She ignored the way that made her chest warm. “So what does a person like you do besides flirt with people trapped in first class?”

“Technically, you were free to run away down the aisle.”

“And trip over three designer handbags on the way? No thanks.”

Yujin laughed and it was low enough to make Wonyoung glance at her lips before catching herself.

They talked over dinner, about flight routes, favorite cities, ridiculous passengers and how Yujin inherited a company she didn’t even like before she was old enough to vote. Wonyoung joked that she’d only flown first class once and it was an accident when the airline system glitched. Yujin saying she’d buy the airline to make it happen again and Wonyoung telling her to try it and see what happened.

The conversation moved easily. The eye contact lingered. The space between them felt warmer than it should.

By the time dessert menu appeared, Yujin leaned back and said, “Just so you know, this is my favorite layover.”

Wonyoung met her gaze, unreadable. “You’re assuming I’m enjoying this.”

Yujin smirked. “You haven’t run to the bathroom to escape so I’m optimistic.”

“I only came for the delicious food.” Wonyoung joked.

— — — 

Dinner went gracefully for Yujin’s liking. The plates were cleared, the wine glasses almost empty and the air between them felt settled but alive. Yujin checked the time then immediately ignored it, she didn’t want to calculate how much longer she had before Wonyoung goes back into her world of departures and gate numbers.

When they stepped outside, Paris was draped in warm streetlight and a soft breeze. Yujin hesitated beside the car, then turned to her.

“I know you’ve probably been up since sunrise and dealt with hours and hours of recycled cabin air, but, if you’re not too tired, would you want to take a walk? Just for a bit.”

Wonyoung blinked. The reasonable part of her brain said: Go to bed. You have an early briefing tomorrow. But then she looked at Yujin again, hands in her pockets, expression unsure and the reasonable part of her shut up.

“I could use the fresh air.” She answered casually. “And I think the wine restarted my blood circulation.”

Yujin’s smile was instant. “So that’s a yes?”

“Don’t make me change my mind.”

They left the car with the valet and began walking down street that led toward the Seine. The restaurant noise fade behind them and the distant sound of accordion music playing somewhere they couldn’t see.

Neither spoke for a moment until Yujin glanced sideways.

“You know, most people pretend to check their phones or fake emergency calls to escape me by now. You’re holding up well.”

Wonyoung slipped her hands into the pockets of her cardigan. “I’m trained to tolerate difficult passengers.”

“Oh, that’s what I am now?”

“You said it, not me.”

Yujin bumped her shoulder gently. “I’m glad you didn’t say no.”

Wonyoung kept her voice even. “You make decent conversation.”

The heiress smiled.

“I’ve never dated someone with a job that moves more than mine.”

“Occupational hazard.” Wonyoung replied. “People like the idea of flight attendants, not the schedule.”

“People are idiots.”

Wonyoung glanced at her, eyebrows raised. “And you’re not people?”

“I’m well funded exception.”

She tried not to laugh and failed silently, which only encouraged Yujin.

“Do you ever get tired of it? Flying everywhere but not actually being anywhere?”

“Sometimes.” She admitted. “But I like movement. And I don’t owe anyone a loan for a house I don’t even get to stay in long enough to enjoy it.” She paused then added, “What about you, Miss Heiress? Don’t you ever get tired of owning the world?”

“Constantly. But at least it comes with VIP treatments.”

They walked along the river after that. The conversation slipped into smaller stories: favorite airports, childhood ambitions, embarrassing layovers, why Yujin refuses to fly commercial.

Eventually, Wonyoung’s steps slowed a little and Yujin noticed immediately. 

“Okay. You’re running on fumes.” She said gently.

“Maybe…but this was nice.” 

Yujin stared at her like she was trying to memorize it. “You know I’m going to ask to see you again.”

Wonyoung raised a brow, “Are you asking now?”

“Yes.” No hesitation. “Even when you’re not trapped in the same country as me.”

The flight attendant didn’t answer right away and the heiress didn’t push. They turned back toward the direction of the valet where Yujin left her car to drop Wonyoung back to her hotel. Neither of them wanted to say out loud that the night lasted way past what either of them expected, but neither of them regretted it even for a second.

— — — 

Yujin pulled up to the hotel entrance and cut the engine. She turned toward Wonyoung, resting one arm on the steering wheel.

“Thank you for tonight. I know you were tired and you didn’t have to humor me for this long.”

Wonyoung unbuckled her seatbelt but didn’t reach for the door. “You’re assuming I was humoring you.”

Yujin smirked, “You were but you did it beautifully.”

Wonyoung let out a small laugh. It faded into a silence that’s between them, comfortable but reluctant.

She could see it in Yujin’s expression, the way her gaze lingered and her voice quieted. For someone so effortlessly confident, Yujin looked disappointed. Not in her, but in the fact that good things had to end. 

“I have a briefing tomorrow, at noon.” She said gently, breaking the quiet.

Yujin nodded, trying to hide her reaction. “Right. Of course.”

Wonyoung’s fingers curled around the strap of her bag. She wanted to say something, she hesitated for a moment but then casually let it out.

“If you’re not busy in the morning…we could have breakfast, you know, before I go.”

It took a full second for Yujin to process it. Then her eyes lit up, immediate and bright, in a way that made Wonyoung’s stomach twist.

“I’m not busy.” Yujin answered instantly.

“You didn’t even check.”

“I just did. Mentally. My schedule is now entirely free until further notice.”

Wonyoung bit back a smile. “Around ten? There’s a cafe a block from here.”

“I’ll pick you up at nine-fifty.”

“Okay.” She reached for the door handle, “Goodnight Yujin.”

Yujin watched her, eyes softer than she meant them to be. “Goodnight Wonyoung.”

The latter stepped out, but before closing the door, she leaned down slightly to meet Yujin’s gaze. “And thank you for tonight too.”

Yujin’s reply wasn’t words, just a look that said she’d replay that sentence until she sees her again in the morning.

Wonyoung closed the door and walked toward the hotel entrance. Yujin stayed parked, watching her until she disappeared through the glass.

Only then did she exhale, sink back to her seat and pull out her phone. Her 9AM meeting reminder glowed at the top of the screen and she deleted it without hesitation.

— — — 

By the time Wonyoung stepped out of the hotel the next morning, Yujin was already parked out front, same black sports car, but she was leaning against it this time. Looking handsomely beautiful with her fixed short hair, crisp white shirt and pressed slacks.

Wonyoung had dressed simply: soft sweater, fitted jeans and hair pulled back in a loose tie. Nothing dramatic yet the moment Yujin saw her, she straightened like she’d knocked breathless.

“Okay, you can’t just walk out looking like that before caffeine.” Yujin said, not bothering restraining herself.

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow. “Like what?”

“Like you are the most beautiful thing that walked in this earth.” Yujin answered seriously.

Wonyoung tried, and failed, not to smile. “You’re too much.”

“You keep saying that and yet you keep showing up.” Yujin replied, opening the car door for her.

Wonyoung slid into the passenger seat once again, glancing at Yujin as she walked around the hood to get in. Now that she was looking with fresh eyes and actual rest, she noticed details she’d miss last night.

The sharp line of Yujin’s jaw, the pretty lashes and the lazy confidence in the way she moved. Beautiful was the word that came to mind, not just handsome and striking, beautiful.

When Yujin got in and caught her looking, she smirked lightly. “You’re staring again.”

“You look more put together today.” Wonyoung said, calmly.

“I slept. And deleted three meetings. That adds ten percent of beauty to my face.”

“More like twenty.”

“Complementing me before breakfast?” Yujin teased. “You’re falling for me now, are you?”

Wonyoung playfully rolled her eyes and looked away, hiding her semi-blushed cheeks.

When they arrived at the cafe, Yujin was out of the car first, circling to open Wonyoung’s door in an instant.

“I can get out on my own, you know.” Wonyoung said.

“I know.” Yujin replied, offering her hand anyway.

Wonyoung took it.

They were seated by the window and before Wonyoung could reach for her chair, Yujin pulled it for her gently.

“You’re very practiced at this.” She said, settling in.

“I was raised to be annoyingly considerate. It’s a burden.” Yujin playfully answered.

Wonyoung set her elbows lightly on the table. “Do you do this with all the women you meet on flights?”

“Only the gorgeous one who threaten my sanity.” Yujin said without blinking.

The waiter came. Yujin ordered coffee for both of them before Wonyoung could speak, but she got it exactly right. Oat milk for Wonyoung and black for herself.

“How did you…”

“Last night, on the walk, you said you can’t drink dairy before noon unless someone wants you to die.” Yujin responded casually.

Wonyoung blinked. “You remember that?”

“I remember everything interesting.”

Breakfast arrived; croissants, soft eggs, fresh berries. Yujin made sure the plate was closer to her side of the table by pushing it slowly in front of her. When Wonyoung reached instinctively for the butter knife, Yujin’s hand was already holding it out.

It wasn’t dramatic or showy, just seamless. Like she’d been taking care of people her whole life.

At one point, Wonyoung caught her staring again, openly.

“What now?” She asked.

Yujin didn’t soften it. “I’m just trying to figure out how you exist.”

Wonyoung hid her smile behind her coffee cup. “Who’s falling for who now?”

“I think I’m winning in that category.”

— — — 

They were walking back toward the car at a small pace when Wonyoung’s phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen; Park Sunbaenim. Work.

She answered. “Hello?”

Yujin stayed beside her, hands in her pockets, pretending not to listen while listening to absolutely everything.

“…Canceled?” Wonyoung repeated, eyebrows lifting. She slowed to a stop on the sidewalk. “Until tomorrow?

Yujin tilted her head, curious.

The flight attendant pinched the bridge of her nose. “No, it’s fine. I’ll adjust. Thank you for letting me know.” She hung up with a sigh.

“Everything okay?” Yujin asked.

“Briefing’s been moved.” Wonyoung answered. “They’re pushing departure another day, so I don’t fly out until tomorrow afternoon.”

“That sounds like a good thing.”

“It would be, if I hadn’t only packed enough clothes for one rotation.” She looked down at herself. “I’m officially entering laundry in the sink territory.”

Yujin grinned. “How tragic.”

Wonyoung should’ve been more annoyed. Normally, she would be, schedule shifts meant ironing new uniforms, extending her booking, budgeting time and energy. But rather than complaining, she felt giddy.

She’d have another entire day here. Which meant, another entire day where she might be with Yujin. Not that she was going to assume that.

“You probably have meetings today.” Wonyoung said carefully. “You don’t need to rearrange your schedule just because mine changed.”

Yujin blinked like she just said something funny.

“Wonyoung,” She said mocking, “I canceled a million-euro contract discussion this morning to eat eggs with you.”

“That was irresponsible.”

“That was a good investment.”

“You’re unbelievable.”

“I warned you on the plane. You still gave me your number.” She said simply.

Wonyoung opened her mouth, then closed it. She crossed her arms lightly even though she wasn’t cold. “You’re really not busy today?”

“I’m always busy.” She said with a shrug. “I’m just choosing what’s worth more.”

“And what’s worth more right now?”

Yujin didn’t hesitate. “You.”

The word was said too easily, too directly. Wonyoung looked away for a moment, pretending to people watch.

“So,” Yujin spoke again, stepping a little closer. “Do you want me to drop you off so you can handwash your wardrobe or should we go but you something that isn’t borrowed from your suitcase troubles?”

Wonyoung turned back to her slowly, failing to fight a smile tugging at her lips. “Are you offering to take me shopping?”

“I’m offering to prevent you from committing fashion-related war crimes in Paris.”

“You’re very sure I want to keep spending time with you.”

Yujin looked at her like it was the most obvious thing in the world. “You asked me to breakfast. I’m taking that as you’re also interested in spending time with me.”

Wonyoung scoffed but laughed afterwards.

“Shall we upgrade your emergency wardrobe?”

She paused just long enough to tease back. “Only if you promise not to buy the store.”

“I promise nothing, except that I’m not done with you yet.”

Wonyoung did her best hide her smile as she got in the car. She failed because Yujin saw, and mirrored it.

— — — 

The boutique Yujin took her screamed expensive but they were in Paris so in her mind, everything was. Wonyoung followed her in, trying not to look like someone doing math in her head.

The first rack she stopped at had a silk blouse in a muted rose shade. She checked the tag discreetly and her soul briefly left her body.

That was not a top. That was half a month’s rent.

She kept her face calmly neutral, as if the amount didn’t just threaten her blood pressure. “You saved money for emergencies and technically, looking presentable counts as survival when traveling.” She reminded herself.

She flipped the tag down just as Yujin stepped beside her.

“You’d look incredible in that. Try it on.”

Wonyoung shook her head. “I’m just..looking.”

Yujin hummed like she didn’t believe that for a second. She went to another rack, casually pulling clothes she thought would suit her. Linen trousers, cream cardigan, a soft blue wrap blouse that made Wonyoung nervous looking at.

They ended up in a dressing room area where the attendant hung everything in a private room. Wonyoung tried the first outfit and stepped out, smoothing the top over her waist.

Yujin froze mid-sentence.

Her eyes traveled slowly, appreciation blatant and unfiltered. “Okay, that’s…wow.”

Wonyoung pretended to inspect the sleeve. “It’s fine.”

“It’s breathtaking.” Yujin corrected. “Turn.”

She did and the heiress looked like she was in physical pain.

Wonyoung went back in to try the next one before Yujin could start with her nonsense.

But when she was alone in the mirror again, reality hit. She could maybe afford one piece if she lived off airport sandwich for a week. Two would mean dipping into savings deeper than she liked.

She changed back into her clothes, gathered the clothing she liked most and headed for the register.

Yujin was already there, waiting, leaning on the counter like she owned it.

She placed a single blouse down, guarded. “Just this one.”

The attendant reached for it, but Yujin stopped her with a glance. Then she turned to Wonyoung.

“No.”

Wonyoung blinked. “No?”

“You’re not just buying one.” Yujin said calmly. She nodded to the attendant, who immediately gathered every piece Wonyoung had tried on and two she hadn’t seen yet. “She’ll take the outfit and the shoes that go with it.”

Wonyoung stiffened. “Yujin, no. I’m not letting you pay for all of that.”

“It’s not for me. It’s for you. And yes, you are.”

“I can afford one top.” She said, voice carefully even.

“That’s cute.” Yujin replied. “Unfortunately, I can afford the rest.”

“That’s not the point.”

“Then here’s the point.” Yujin said, stepping closer her voice low so only she could hear. “Let me. Just today. Let me spoil you, you can pretend it’s a souvenir from Paris.”

Wonyoung folder her arms, trying to keep her composure. “Souvenirs are magnets and postcards. Not blouses worth more than my phone.”

Yujin actually pouted. “Please? I’m serious. Let me do this, just once. For me.”

“You’re asking me to let you spend thousands of euros on me for your sake?”

“Yes.”

Wonyoung stared at her, trying to read her face. No arrogance, no theatrics, just pure insistence.

“You’re ridiculous.” She muttered.

“And you’re beautiful,” She answered in a softer tone. “Which is a problem I’d like to invest in.”

Wonyoung hesitated for a long second, long enough that the attendant pretended to rearrange scarves nearby.

Finally, she exhaled, resigned but secretly fluttering. “Fine, but you’re not buying the whole store.”

“Deal.” Yujin answered immediately and turns to the attendant once more. “Two outfits and a pair of shoes.”

“That’s not…”

“Souvenir rules.” Yujin cuts her. “Take it up with management.”

“You are management.”

“Exactly.”

The attendant returned with gift bags and a discreet smile. As they exited the boutique, Yujin took the bags from Wonyoung’s hand without asking.

Wonyoung walked beside her in silence for a moment before saying. “You’re lucky I’m too tired to fight harder.”

Yujin glanced at her. “I’m lucky you let me try.”

And for once, Wonyoung didn’t disagree.

“Now that your briefing’s has been delayed and your wardrobe crisis has been resolved, what are your plans for the rest of the day?” Yujin asked casually.

“Laundry in the hotel sink, maybe nap, maybe stress about my life choices.” She answered, trying to reach for the shopping bags Yujin still wouldn’t let her carry.

Yujin clicked her tongue. “Terrible itinerary. I’d like to propose an alternative.”

“Oh?” Wonyoung said, pretending not to already know where this was going.

“I would be..” Yujin paused in the most extra way, “honored if you’d consider spending the day with me. I promise fun, adventure and at least one pastry detour.”

Wonyoung raised a brow. “You’re really leaning into this charm thing.”

“It’s not a thing, it’s my lifestyle.”

“You don’t get tired of flirting?”

“With you? Not in this lifetime.”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes playfully, trying to hide a grin. “I’d have to change first.”

“Perfect. I’ll wait.” 

— — — 

They went back to the hotel, Yujin leaning against the wall outside Wonyoung’s room like she has nowhere else to be. Wonyoung went inside with the bags with a mixture of excitement and nerves.

She chose the soft blue wrap blouse and the matching trousers; simple, elegant, far too expensive to feel real. She fixed her hair, retouched minimal make up and when she looked in the mirror, even she had to admit she looked..different. Not just a flight attendant in layover mode, she was someone dressed to be seen.

Wonyoung came out of her room and Yujin straightened instantly. And when she saw her, she froze, eyes widening. She didn’t say anythingg at first, she just looked slowly, from head to toe, like she was memorizing something sacred.

Finally, she was able to speak. Low and honest, “You’re going to kill me.”

Wonyoung crossed her arms, though her cheeks warmed. “It’s just clothes.”

“No. It’s a fact that Paris is now irrelevant. You’re the only thing worth looking at in this city.”

“That’s excessive.”

“That’s the truth. You look stunning. Absolutely, painfully stunning.” Yujin said simply.

Wonyoung glanced away, trying to appear unaffected. “Do I pass the heiress-approved dress code?”

“You pass supernatural beauty. Barely, but I’ll allow it.”

She scoffed but there’s no hiding the quiet satisfaction in her posture.

“Well then,” Yujin said, offering her arm. “Miss Flight Attendant with questionable packing skills, are you ready for a day of reckless adventure and endless pastry consumption?”

Wonyoung slid her hand through Yujin’s arm, not over thinking it. “Lead the way, heiress with zero spending restraint.”

Yujin smiled, loving the skin ship they currently share. “Gladly. And for the record, I’m not done telling you how beautiful you are today.” She said as they walked towards the elevator.

— — —

This time, they were not going to take Yujin’s flashy sports car, they wandered the streets on foot. They just had breakfast hours ago but Yujin insisted on taking Wonyoung to a small pastry store, almost like a Mom and Pop kind, that she swore has one of the most amazing eclairs. Wonyoung tried a lavender eclair, her eyes widened on the first bite, pretended not to moan over the delicious taste of it and Yujin pretended not to stare at her lips the whole time.

They floated through the narrow streets lined with bookstores and flower stands, stopping occasionally when something caught Wonyoung’s eyes. A chocolate shop, painters working on canvas by the river and watching a violinist playing under a bridge.

Next stop was the Musee de l’Orangie. Yujin led her inside, gauzing Wonyoung’s reaction to see if she was into this kind of things and released a sigh of relief when she saw her eyes twinkle while looking through the arts, statues and amongst other things. 

Afterwards, the walked through the Tuileries Garden. The air was breezy but not cold enough to be uncomfortable being outside. They watched children chased pigeons, an old man feeding crumbs to them and huge Ferris Wheel that’s worthy to be in a post card almost hiding behind trees.

They walked side by side, unhurried.

Yujin kept her hands in her pockets, but every so often, her arm would drift, fingers grazing the back of Wonyoung’s free hand, just barely, secretly wanting to reach for it.

It happened once, twice and on the third time, Wonyoung’s pinky brushed back, not intentionally but not by accident either.

Then it happened. Their fingers, just the tips, hooked. For a moment, neither of them moved. Wonyoung didn’t pull away and Yujin went very still. She glanced sideways to confirm that Wonyoung was still looking ahead, she was, but her hand was still there.

Slowly, carefully, Yujin turned her hand and fingers found Wonyoung’s. She slid her thumb lightly against her palm, silently asking.

Wongyoung’s fingers curled back and that was the permission.

Yujin intertwined their hands fully, palms warm against each other, her grip gentle but sure. The moment their fingers locked, her eyes lit up and followed by a giddy smile that she refused to hide.

Wonyoung didn’t look at her, but her thumb stayed pressed, shoulders relaxed now. They kept walking like that, like it was the most natural thing in the world. At one point, Yujin exhaled a laugh under her breath, still grinning like she just won something she didn’t think she would and Wonyoung didn’t ask why, she already knew.

By the evening, Yujin guided Wonyoung into a candlelit restaurant. They were seated at a corner table with a view if the Seine, the soft, dim light still showed Wonyoung’s beauty and Yujin watched for a moment, mesmerized.

“Well,” Yujin started, playfully but tender. “How was today? Did you have fun with me?”

Wonyoung looked up from her glass of wine, eyes shining and a soft smile showing. “I…yeah, I had fun.” She paused, shyness laced to her voice. “It’s probably the best layover so far. And honestly, it’s all because of you.”

Yujin’s chest warmed at the words. She reached across the table, brushing a strand of hair behind Wonyoung’s ear. “I’m glad. I’m really glad you enjoyed it.”

They ate slowly, savoring the meal and the rarity of the day with no schedules, no flights, no meetings and no one else’s expectations. Between courses, they talked, laughed and shared little stories like they were on their little world.

Finally, as the night comes to an end and they made it in front of Wonyoung’s hotel.

“Thank you…for everything.” She said softly. “You made today…unforgettable.”

Yujin froze, catching a subtle weight in Wonyoung’s words. The tone sounded a hint of finality. It sounded like a goodbye, a soft goodbye like this would be the last time they’ll see each other. Her heart sank slightly but she forced a smile and spoke.

“Wony, don’t make it sound like this is the last time, I don’t want it to be.”

Wonyoung hesitated, her eyes looking down on the ground before meeting’s Yujin’s eyes again.

“Yujin, we have to face the reality. Tomorrow I go back to being a flight attendant, up in the air most days. And you, you have your world, your business, your responsibilities…”

“Don’t.” Yujin cut her off. “Please don’t say what I think you’re about to say.”

“It’s true though.” She continued. “We’re not in the same life. You’re an heiress, Yujin, you deserve someone on your level. Someone who fits in your world. Not me. Unfortunately, that’s just how it is.”

Yujin’s chest tightened, every word felt like stab, but she reached up, brushed her thumb on Wonyoung’s cheek. 

“Wonyoung, none of that matters to me. Status doesn't matter. Money doesn't matter. I like you, for you. For the person you are, not for what you could be or you think should be.” Her voice was quiet, firm, but not backing down. She continued as she stepped closer. “And I hope you like me too. Not An Yujin the heiress, not the world I carry on my shoulders, but the Yujin you’ve spent the last 24 hours with. The me who’s messy, stubborn, maybe ridiculous, but completely enchanted by you.”

Wonyoung’s eyes flickered, doubt lingering in her mind. For a long moment she said nothing. She searched Yujin’s eyes and could see the sincerity on them. Slowly, she squeezed Yujin’s hand, a small invisible gesture that she likes and wants her too, and it was enough for Yujin to understand.

The heiress smiled, relived that Wonyoung felt the same way. “That’s all I need.” She whispered. “Just me and you. That’s more than enough.”

Wonyoung let out a soft breath, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Okay, then. Let’s see where this goes even if the world insists we live in different skies.”

Yujin grinned, a mixture of success and admiration shown on her face. “Then we’ll fly together.”

— — — 

The next morning, Wonyoung, all packed and ready to head to the airport for her briefing and back to Seoul. She pulled her small luggage and head to the lobby and when she arrived, she could see Yujin through the windshield carrying a small tray with two steaming coffee and a brown paper bag. The sight alone made her heart flutter.

“I come bearing sustenance.” Yujin announced cheerfully as Wonyoung approached her. “And I was wondering if I could drop you off at the airport.”

Wonyoung blinked, touched and flustered at the same time. “Yujinnie, you’ve already been canceling your meetings for me. You don’t have to..”

“Please don’t argue.” Yujin said firmly, smiling from hearing what Wonyoung called her for the first time. “I want. I want to spend as much time with you as I can before we have to part ways. even if it’s just a quick coffee and ride to the airport.”

Wonyoung hesitated, chewing on her lips. She hated seeing Yujin sacrifice her schedule for her but the thought of a few more minutes together made her heart happy.

“Okay, I’d like that.”

Yujin’s grin widened. “Perfect, then let’s make the most of these few minutes.”

They get into the car, with Yujin’s hand brushing on Wonyoung’s back, holding the door open, as she guided her on the passenger seat. Yujin looking at her with that same quiet awe and adoration from the day before as she handed Wonyoung her coffee.

As they drove through the quiet streets of Paris, Yujin talked lightly about little things. Future dates for them to do when they see each other again such as a cafe she wanted to try and a hidden view she hadn’t shown Wonyoung yet. The latter just listened while sipping her coffee, heart full and warm at every word, every gesture from Yujin.

When Yujin pulled up in the front of the airport terminal, her heart felt heavier than it had all morning. Wonyoung stepped out of the car, balancing her coffee and breakfast bag, glancing at the terminal ahead.

Yujin opened her mouth to say goodbye and leaned in, wanting to do something she’s been wanting to since she met the girl but then froze. A rush of hesitation washed over her. Is it too soon? Is this forward?

Wonyoung looked back briefly, smiling but completely unaware of the thoughts in Yujin’s head.

“Have a safe flight Wony.” Was all she could say and do.

She nodded, “See you soon, Yujinnie.” She pulled her luggage and began walking towards the terminal. 

Yujin’s gaze followed her, heart tugging in a way that made it impossible to stay seated. She took a deep breath and exhaled all the worries and anxieties that’s been battling inside her chest. It’s now or never, An Yujin. 

Yujin’s courage won over. She opened the car door, stepped out and began jogging toward Wonyoung.

“Yujin?” Wonyoung said, surprised and stopping mid-step. Her eyes widened as she fully turned toward Yujin, confused shown on her face.

“You forgot something.” 

“Huh? What is it?”

“I can’t part ways without kissing you goodbye.” Yujin reached to cup Wonyoung’s face and kissed her. Their lips meeting in a gentle, careful kiss at first. Wonyoung’s hand lifted, brushing against Yujin’s cheek and the kiss deepened naturally, warm and lingering.

When they finally parted, just slightly, their foreheads rested together.

Wonyoung’s voice was soft and breathless. “You really didn’t want to let go, huh?”

“Not for a second.” Yujin grinned, relief and joy flooding her.

She laughed quietly, shaking her head, still holding into Yujin’s hand. “Then I guess we’re officially starting this off dangerously.”

Yujin tightened her grip on Wonyoung’s hand. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

—END—

Chapter Text

Three months.

That’s how long it had been since Paris, since lavender eclairs, Seine and the airport goodbye kiss that still replayed in Wonyoung’s head during quiet moments.

In those three months, she and Yujin had stayed in contact; texts, late-night calls, a few quick video chats squeezed in between Yujin’s meetings and Wonyoung’s layovers. But they hadn’t seen each other in person.

Wonyoung had flown to Paris four times since then. Four long haul rotations with minimal time to be on the ground for Yujin to see her quickly so they didn’t. Each time, the moment she stepped into first class with a smile she’d mastered over the years, her eyes would drift to seat 1A.

And each time, someone else was sitting there.

A businessman. A honeymooner. An old lady. Once, a teenage boy with wireless headphones.

Every time she passed that seat, she gets disappointed a bit, because in her mind, she’d unofficially reserved it. Not just for any first-class passenger but for the woman who’d made Paris feel like something out of dream.

She told herself she was being silly, but that didn’t stop the disappointment every time she had to offer drinks to someone else in 1A.

Flight Rotation #5 - Return to Seoul

After the long flight to Paris with full occupancy, fussy passengers and minimal rest, Wonyoung had less than 5 hours on the ground before the return flight to Seoul. 

Boarding began right on schedule. She smoothed her uniform jacket, adjusted her hair and greeted passengers as they filed in.

When the first-class manifest loaded on her tablet, she barely glanced at it as she already expected 1A to belong to some CEO or tech investor or retired diplomat.

Still, habit was stronger than denial.

She stepped into first class, hands folded neatly, with a smile that didn’t show any tiredness.

1C. occupied. 1B, empty for now. She turned to 1A…

She froze, her breathing stopped. There she was… Yujin.

Short hair grew a few inches, sleeves rolled up over a tailored travel shirt. She had one earbud in but removed the second she saw Wonyoung. No assistant, no entourage, just her, sitting exactly where she had been the day they met.

Yujin’s smile started small, slow, almost hesitant and then grew into something bright.

“Excuse me, Miss.” Yujin spoke, straight-faced but eyes playful. “Is it too late to request the attention of my favorite flight attendant”

Wonyoung blinked once, twice. Her professional posture still there but her voice came out softer than intended.

“You…you’re on this flight?”

“Seat 1A seemed lonely without me.” Yujin replied casually, as though booking last minute first class flight across continents was the most natural decision in the world.

Wonyoung tried to speak, then had to close her mouth and try again. “You didn’t tell me.”

“I wanted to surprise you. Also, I missed you. Terribly. And I figured, if you weren’t going to come to me anytime soon, I’d come to you.”

Wonyoung’s chest tightened, warmth growing and a full day of exhaustion forgotten.

Around them, passengers were still settling in, crew moving about but in that moment, the cabin might as well be empty.

Wonyoung stepped closer and whispered low enough only Yujin could hear. “I thought I was being silly for wishing you’d be here again.”

The heiress’s gaze soften, voice just as quiet. “Then we’re both silly because I couldn’t stand the thought of 1A belonging to anyone else.”

For a quick second, professionalism slipped and the flight attendant’s smile was real, unrestrained and bright, it made Yujin’s heart flip.

“Welcome aboard, Miss An. It’s very good to see you again.” She said gently, going back to her formal tone only by necessity.

“The pleasure is all mine, Miss Jang.”

And just like that, seat 1A finally felt right again.

— — — 

From the moment boarding completed and the cabin settled in, it was obvious Yujin had a plan.

Just like the very first time they met, she kept calling for Wonyoung’s attention, but this time without being subtle and far more playful.

“Miss Jang.” She said, pressing the attendant call button for the third time in under twenty minutes. “I think the temperature near my seat is two degrees colder than usual.”

Wonyoung kept her professional smile in place, though her eyes sparkled with suspicion. “Is that so, Miss An? Should I bring you a blanket or increase cabin temperature?”

“A blanket.” Yujin answered, then added a whisper only she could hear. “And your attention.”

Wonyoung bit back a grin. “One blanket coming right up.”

Ten minutes later, the call light pinged again.

“Yes, Miss An?” She said as she approached.

“I suddenly crave sparkling water. No lemon. Actually…no, yes lemon. But only if you’re the one squeezing it.”

“I see. Anything else?” She replied with tone perfectly composed.

“A smile.” Yujin added dramatically.

Wonyoung didn’t deny her that.

An hour passed, passengers settled in and cabin lights dimmed into night mode. Quiet filled the first-class section; eyes closed, headphones on, seats reclined. Wonyoung made rounds with her usual grace.

Then, ding. Seat 1A.

She approached with mild amusement. “Miss An, is there an emergency I should be aware of?”

Yujin sat reclined, hair a little messy and a blanket covered her legs. She put on her best serious expression. “Yes, I’m experiencing a complication with my…seatbelt.”

Wonyoung blinked, glancing at it. “Your seatbelt is fastened.”

“It doesn’t feel secure. Could you please check? Thoroughly?”

She exhaled through her nose, trying not to laugh. “Fine. But this is the last call I’m answering unless you’re on fire or the plane is upside down.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She stepped closer, leaning slightly over her to reach the belt. “See? It’s securely…”

Yujin moved before she finished. A hand gently wrapped around Wonyoung’s wrist, pulling her closer. And without hesitation, she leaned up and kissed her; soft, sure and hungry like she hasn’t eaten for days.

Wonyoung froze for half a second, caught off guard but the familiarity, the longing that had built over months, melted the hesitation instantly. She kissed her back, finger’s brushing Yujin’s shoulder as if to make sure she was real.

When they parted, barely inches away, Yujin whispered against her lips, voice low and aching. “I missed you so much.”

Wonyoung’s reply was soft, but full. “I know, I missed you too.”

Yujin grinned, eyes half lidded with relief and affection. “Thank God 1B never showed up.”

Wonyoung glanced at the empty seat beside her and smiled. “I have never been more grateful for a no-show in my entire career.”

Yujin’s finger traced the back of her hand briefly before letting go, knowing Wonyoung had to step away soon. “Don’t go too far.” she murmured.

Wonyoung straightened her uniform but not her expression, her smile was too genuine to hide now. “I’m only once call button away, Miss An.”

“Oh you know I will press it again.” Yujin whispered, and the flight attendant didn’t even pretend to mind.

— — — 

The moment the cabin doors opened and passengers began to deplane, Yujin was already gone from seat 1A. She didn’t wait to be escorted out or walk slowly with the others, she moved with purpose, slipping out ahead so she could get to the arrival gate before Wonyoung finished her post flight tasks.

By the time Wonyoung stepped out of the jet bridge, still in uniform and politely said goodbye to her coworkers, she spotted a familiar figure leaning casually near the end of the gate; Yujin.

The second their eyes met, Yujin didn’t wait. She strode toward her, closing the distance in long steps and without a word, wrapped Wonyoung up in a tight, relieved hug, arms circling around her waist like she’d been holding that urge in the entire twelve long hour flight.

Wonyoung blinked in surprise then melted into it, letting herself fold into the warmth of Yujin’s chest. The tiredness from the long flight suddenly felt lighter.

“You waited here?” She murmured against strong shoulders.

“Of course I did.” Yujin said, pulling back just enough to see her face. Her eyes were soft, overflowing with tenderness and certainty. “I wasn’t going to let you disappear past baggage claim before I got to hug you properly.”

Wonyoung’s lips curved. “Still dramatic.”

“Mm, you love it.”

Wonyoung didn’t deny it.

As they walked slowly down the terminal, still close and fingers brushing occasionally, Yujin finally admitted why she’d gotten on the flight in the first place.

“Las week,” She began, glancing at Wonyoung, “you mentioned you’d have three days off after this landing.”

She nodded. “Yeah, starting now, actually.”

“And you said you’d probably just go home, eat and sleep.”

“That still sounds like a perfect plan.”

Yujin smiled, a little shy for once. “I remembered. And I thought, if you’d let me, I want to spend all those days with you.”

Wonyoung slowed her pace, eyes softening as she looked at her. “You got on that flight…just so you could be here for my days off?”

Yujin didn’t flinch. “Yes, I didn’t want to wait another month, or meet you by accident. I wanted to choose it this time.”

The flight attendant’s heart twisted in the sweetest way. “You flew twelve hours for that?”

“I’d fly twelve more if you asked.”

Wonyoung huffed a quiet laugh, shaking her head but there was no hiding how touched she was. “You’re unbelievable.”

“Is that a yes?” Yujin asked, bright with something hopeful and boyish underneath all her elegance.

Wonyoung pretended to consider. “Well, just like I told you, my only was to be at home, eat, and sleep.”

“I’m great at takeouts, naps and not leaving your side.” Yujin answered without a shame.

That made the girl in front of her smile fully,. “Then…yes. Stay with me.”

Yujin exhaled in relief, excitement and affection showing through her expression as her hand gently took Wonyoung’s carry on from her.

“I don’t intend to waste a single minute.”

— — — 

They exited the terminal through the VIP lane. The automatic doors slid open to the pick up zone and right there at the curb sat a black and red Range Rover. One of Yujin’s Seoul based employees stood by the passenger side, head bowed slightly the moment he spotted her.

“Welcome back, Miss Vice President.” He greeted, handing over the key fob with both hands.

“Thank you, Mr. Kwon. You can head back.” Yujin replied smoothly, already stepping ahead to open the rear passenger door for Wonyoung.

Wonyoung blinked. “You’re driving?”

“Unless you’d prefer the chauffeur?” Yujin quipped, tilting her head playfully. 

“Driving is fine.” She said, trying not to show her amusement.

Yujin guided her in with one hand at the small of her back. The interior smelling faint leather and something warm and clean, probably Yujin’s cologne. After closing her door, she rounded to the driver’s seat and slid in effortlessly, starting the engine.

“Can I drop you off at your apartment?” She asked as they drive away from the curb.

Wonyoung glanced over at her, surprised she even asked. “Yeah, that’d be good. Thank you.”

The drive through the early evening of Seoul was calm and the quiet between them felt familiar rather than awkward. Yujin drove confidently but without a rush, occasionally stealing glances at Wonyoung like she still couldn’t believe she was there with her.

When they finally pulled up in front of Wonyoung’s apartment building, Yujin stopped the car but didn’t reach for her seatbelt right away. She looked at her with that same earnest softness that had Wonyoung undone in Paris.

“I won’t assume anything,” She spoke gently. “But I…really enjoyed today, yesterday and the last three months of calls.”

Wonyoung’s lips curved, amused by how careful she was trying to be. She unbuckled her seatbelt, then turned toward her.

“Would you…like to come in?” She asked, tone intentionally casual. “I have tea, maybe some snacks..” And with a hint of boldness, she added, “I wouldn’t mind…catching up properly.”

Yujin’s restraint cracked into a grin, “I would love that.”

They headed up together, Yujin carrying Wonyoung’s luggage without being asked. Inside, the apartment was clean and cozy, full of evidence that Wonyoung barely lived home long enough to make a mess.

While the kettle heated, Wonyoung set down a few snacks she’d stashed from her last grocery run. Yujin leaned against the counter, watching her with the kind of gaze that made Wonyoung feel both cherished and exposed.

Tea poured, snacks shared, and jokes exchanged quietly over steaming cups of tea but it didn’t take long before the silence turned into something heavier, warmer.

Seated together on the small sofa, their knees brushing together, Wonyoung finally set her mug aside, Yujin did the same.

Wonyoung leaned in first this time, her fingers gently brushing Yujin’s collar before pulling her close. Yujin met her halfway, lips soft but hungry with months of distance kept between them.

The kiss deepened slowly, no rushing but savoring. Wonyoung’s hand slid into Yujin’s jaw and the latter’s fingers resting at her waist, not gripping too hard.

When they finally pulled back, breathing close to each other, Wonyoung’s forehead pressed against Yujin’s, her voice was quiet, playful but sincere.

“Welcome back to Seoul.”

Yujin smiled, thumb brushing her lower lip. “You have no idea how good that sounds coming from you.”

And then, without rushing, they kissed again, slower this time, like they finally had time to make up everything they’d been missing.

— — — 

They eventually settled sideways on the sofa, legs tangled and a blanket half draped over them. Wonyoung rested against the armrest, and Yujin fit herself between her legs, head tucked comfortably against Wonyoung’s shoulder and her, playing with Yujin’s hair.

“So, how exactly did you sneak into my flight without me catching you?”

Yujin shifted, a smug smile already forming. “Strategic planning and a little bit of luck.”

“Mm, elaborate Miss Vice President.”

Yujin chuckled under her breath. “I booked the ticket under my English name so it wouldn’t immediately flag in your system, and I asked one of my body guards to escort me through boarding privately. I waited until you were finishing pre-departure checks before stepping into the cabin.”

“That’s why I didn’t see you in the lounge? I checked.”

“I know you did.” She said, half teasing, half pleased. “I was hiding in the VIP waiting room until I got the signal from the gate staff.”

“That’s ridiculous. You didn’t have to go through all that trouble.” Wonyoung said but her voice was soft, fond.

Yujin tilted her head up slightly, eyes smiling. “Didn’t I? I wasn’t about to risk missing you again. You walk past hundreds of passengers a week. I wasn’t going to gamble on coincidence.”

Wonyoung’s heart fluttered at that. She hadn’t expected that much intention, that much effort to see her. She sighed quietly, fingers pausing in Yujin’s hair. “Thank you…for coming.”

The words were simple but sincere and they made Yujin’s smile curl smugly and with satisfaction.

“I’ll accept your gratitude, but I’d like compensation.” She said without shame.

That earned a raised brow from Wonyoung. “Compensation?”

“A kiss. Seems fair.” She said simply, turning to face her fully now.

Wonyoung rolled her eyes, but she was already leaning down before she could sigh. The kiss was slow, lingering and sweet, an answer and reward at the same time.

One kiss turned into several small ones, then quiet laughter, more conversations about the flight, about Yujin’s rearranged meetings, about Wonyoung’s next rotation.

It wasn’t until Yujin glanced over at the clock on the microwave across the room that she stilled.

“It’s almost two,” she murmured.

“Already?” She said in genuine surprise.

Yujin nodded, slowly getting up though her hand lingered at Wonyoung’s waist. “I should probably let you sleep. I don’t want to overstay…”

Her voice was even but the reluctance was obvious in the way she didn’t even move.

Wonyoung hesitated only for a moment, then before she could second guess herself, she spoke. “Stay.” 

Yujin froze, her eyes looked up and searched Wonyoung’s eyes for clarification. “Stay..?”

Wonyoung nodded, heart beating fast at her own boldness. “Just to sleep. No pressure, no…implications. I just,” she exhaled slowly, honesty laced in her voice. “I don’t really want tonight to end yet.”

For a moment, Yujin only stared at her, surprised then something in her chest eased. “I don’t want it to end either.” She admitted, “Are you sure?”

Wonyoung gave a small, shy smile. “I wouldn’t have asked if I wasn’t.”

Yujin’s expression softened into something gentle and content. She reached out, brushing a thumb along Wonyoung’s cheek.

“Then I’d love to stay.”

— — — 

Morning came. Yujin stirred agains the soft sheets, reaching for the figure that been sleeping beside her hours ago, only to meet with an empty space. Her eyes blinked open slowly, adjusting to the unfamiliar of Wonyoung’s bedroom.

She turned her head toward the digital clock on the bedside table; 8:31AM.

A small sound can be heard from the slightly open bedroom door, a soft clink, quiet shuffle of feet, and something sizzling. Yujin got right up, hair messy from sleep, sweater slightly wrinkled from wearing it to bed. She slipped out quietly, walking barefoot down the hallway.

In the open kitchen, Wonyoung was standing by the stove, hair tied into a low, messy ponytail and sleeves rolled up. She wore a loose T-shirt and soft shorts. She looked simple, comfortable and impossibly endearing. She was focused in flipping something in the pan, eggs maybe, and didn’t notice Yujin at first.

Yujin just stood there for a moment, leaning against the wall, quietly taking in the scene: Wonyoung barefooted, concentrated expression, the sunlight highlighting the line of her neck. Something in Yujin’s chest tightened in the best way.

Unable to resist any longer, she stepped forward softly, closing the distance and sliding her arms around Wonyoung’s waist from behind and the latter nudged, shoulders stiffening on instinct.

“It’s just me,” She murmured, resting her chin lightly on Wonyoung’s shoulder. “Didn’t mean to scare you.”

Wonyoung let out a small breath, the tension easing as she relaxed back into the hold. “I’m not used to anyone else being in here.” She admitted quietly.

“Get used to me slowly.” Yujin teased in her sleepy voice.

Wonyoung released a quiet laugh and reached for the spatula again. “I’m making breakfast. Don’t judge, it’s very…average.”

The heiress tightened her hold, lips kissing her shoulder through her shirt. “I don’t care what it is. If you made it, I’ll like it.”

Wonyoung scoffed lightly. “Apologies in advance, Miss Heiress. No truffle oil, no handmade brioche, no imported fruit plates here.”

Yujin chuckled into her neck. “I’d rather eat burned toast if you’re the one serving it.”

“That can be arranged.”

The pan sizzled softly as she plated the eggs, adding toast and a side of fruit she’d cut earlier. Yujin finally let go to help carry the plates to the small dining table.

They sat across from each other, quiet and comfortable. The food was simple but Yujin ate it like it was the best meal she’d ever had in weeks, looking at Wonyoung between every few bites.

Wonyoung caught her staring. “Why are you looking at me like that?”

Yujin didn’t hide her smile. “Because I like waking up and seeing you like this.”

Wonyoung tried to act unbothered but her blushing cheeks gave her away. She took a bite of toast to distract herself.

When they finished eating, Wonyoung propped her elbow on the table and tried to sound casual.

“So…where are you staying while you’re in Seoul?”

Yujin didn’t look up from her mug. “I booked a suite at Signiel. My assistant confirmed it yesterday.”

Wonyoung nodded slowly. “Right. Of course.”

She played with her spoon, glancing briefly toward the hallway that led back to her bedroom.

“You could…I mean…” She paused, “If the hotel’s far or whatever, my place is…closer to the airport and the city. And..” She stopped herself before she rambled.

Yujin’s lips moved, but she pretended not to notice the careful offering. “The suite’s fine, it’s comfortable enough.”

Wonyoung tried again, eyes down. “Well, uhm, if you need to shower between meetings or nap, or…put your stuff somewhere, you can use my place, I don’t mind.”

“I know. Thank you.”

Wonyoung pressed her lips together. The words she wanted to say stuck on her throat and wouldn’t come out.

Yujin watched her closely before setting the mug down.

She knew. She understood exactly what Wonyoung meant, and what she was too hesitant to say outright. But instead of accepting the half invitation, she waited, patient and attentive.

It took Wonyoung a few breaths before she finally met her eyes.

“Actually,” She began, voice smaller now. “I’d prefer if you stayed. Here. With me.”

Yujin’s expression softened instantly. “You sure?”

Wonyoung nodded once. “If…if you don’t mind. I know it’s not what you’re used to. It’s small, not fancy. The sofa creaks sometimes and the shower pressure sucks and my neighbors vacuum way too early…”

Yujin reached across the table and stilled her hand with a gentle touch.

“Wony.”

She looked up.

“I didn’t fly across continents to stay in a hotel. I’m here for you.” She said calmly.

Wonyoung’s heartbeat kicked, eyes dropping to where their hands were now holding. “I just…didn’t want you to feel like you had to.”

Yujin gave a quiet laugh. “What part of sneaking onto an international flight made you think I do things out of obligation?”

That earned a reluctant smile from Wonyoung. “Thank you. For everything you’ve done…just to see me.”

Yujin squeezed her hand gently. “Don’t thank me like it’s a favor. You’re worth more than anything I’ve canceled, rearranged or bought just to be here.”

Her voice didn’t waver. There was no exaggeration, just certainty.

Wonyoung felt her chest warmed. She didn’t respond with words, just squeezed back, eyes steady and grateful.

Yujin leaned back, a small, satisfied smile forming. “So, am I unpacking my suitcase in your closet or am I living out of bag?”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes. “Don’t push your luck.” But when she stood to collect their plates, she paused, looking back at her.

“…You can put your things in the drawer under my bed.”

Yujin’s grin was slow and victorious. “Gladly.”

— — — 

Those three days passed in a way that didn’t feel rushed, but still weren’t nearly enough. Yujin settled into Wonyoung’s apartment like she’d always meant to be there. And without needing to plan anything strict, they simply lived together, falling into their own rhythm as if the distance of the past three month had never existed.

Day 1

They arrived at the little restaurant at the end of a quiet alley, half hidden behind crates of vegetables and drying chili peppers. The bell above the door jingled as they entered and one of the elderly ahjummas immediately looked up from behind the counter.

“Oh! Our Wonyoungie is here.” She said with a wide, wrinkled smile. Then she looked sideways to the person she was with, Yujin. “And she brought someone?”

Wonyoung cleared her throat and bowed slightly. “Oh, uh, she’s uhm.” Unsure what she should label the heiress.

The ahjumma squinted in amusement. “Special friend? Well, she’s a very tall and handsome one.”

Yujin bowed politely, lips curving. “It’s not to meet you, ma’am.”

They sat at Wonyoung’s usual spot near the window, and before they could even look at the menu, one of the ahjummas called out. “I’ll bring your usual, hmm? And something extra for the special friend.”

While they waited, Yujin leaned forward, “So this is where you hide when you’re not thirty thousand feet in the sky?”

Wonyoung smirked, “It’s peaceful and they season their food exactly how I like it.”

“And here I thought you lived off airport lounges and instant ramyeon.”

Before Wonyoung could retort, the ahjumma came back with banchan and barley tea. She placed the dishes down, but instead of leaving, she placed a hand on Wonyoung’s shoulder.

“You know, this girl always comes alone.” She told Yujin. “Just sits there, eats quietly and thanks us twice before leaving.”

Yujin glanced at Wonyoung with a soft smile, “Is that so?”

“Ahjumma…”

The older woman ignored her and continued. “But finally, she brings someone. We were starting to think she’d marry her job.”

The second ahjumma arrived with their jjigae and chimed in, “Our Wonyoungie is so pretty and well mannered. Someone should take good care of her. She deserves it.”

Wonyoung flushed and busied herself with pouring tea. “Please stop talking as if I’m not here.”

Yujin, unable to resist, replied warmly to the ahjummas. “I promise you, taking care of her is already my goal in life.”

Both ahjummas clapped their hands in happily.

“Aigoo! Listen to that! Confident! Good!”

“Don’t let this one go, Wonyoungie, she speaks well.” The other ahjumma added.

Wonyoung shot Yujin a half glare, cheeks blushing. “You’re enjoying this too much.”

Yujin lifter her tea with a grin. “I’m just being honest.”

They began to eat, and for a few minutes, the teasing paused. But when one ahjumma came to refill their dishes, she leaned toward Yujin again.

“If she pretends to be annoyed, don’t believe it. She’s soft inside, just shows it quietly.”

Wonyoung groaned into her hands. “Ahjumma, please…”

Yujin chuckled. “I already noticed.”

When they finished eating, one of the ahjummas came back with an extra container of kimchi. “For both of you. And next time, don’t come alone.” She said pointedly to Wonyoung.

She stood to bow. “Thank you, really.”

As they stepped outside, Yujin nudged her gently. “They love you.”

“They’re nosy.” Wonyoung muttered, but she was smiling.

“And they’re right, you do deserve to be taken care of.”

Wonyoung rolled her eyes but she didn’t let go of Yujin’s hand the entire walk back.

Day 2

Yujin insisted they rent school uniforms from the shop outside the amusement park. Wonyoung in the female uniform and Yujin confidently choosing the male version. When they stepped out of the dressing room, the flight attendant burst into laughter.

“You..look like you belong in a K-drama.” She said, pointing at Yujin’s perfectly rolled up sleeves and loosely knotted tie.

“And you look like the reason high school romances exist.” Yujin said, eyes sweeping over her.

“Cheesy.”

“Truthful.” Yujin corrected smugly.

They walked into Lotte World, blending occasionally with real high schoolers on field trips, though most of the kids did double takes when they passed by. Yujin tried to pay for snacks: churros, corndogs and cotton candy but Wonyoung slapped her card down faster.

“You bought breakfast and the uniforms. I’m buying snacks.” She declared.

Yujin surrendered with a dramatic sigh. “I’ve never been so happily defeated.”

While waiting in line for a ride, Yujin looked around at the students laughing and running about. “You know, I kind of missed out on all of this.”

Wonyoung blinked. “On churros and kids screaming?”

“On being a regular teenager here. My parents sent me to international schools when I was young. Then university in France. I never got to wear one of these.” She chuckled as she flicker her tie. “Or hang our like this.”

Wonyoung tilted her head, studying her. “Makes sense. You were already in Vice President training at, what, age three?”

“Age five.” Yujin corrected dryly. “Tragic.”

They moved up in line, and Yujin glanced at the students again, curiosity in her expression. “I would’ve loved to have known you then.”

Wonyoung laughed at that. “Impossible. You were probably taking private jets to piano lessons while I was taking the bus to cram school and eating tteokbokki on the curb.”

Yujin didn’t flinch. “Doesn’t matter. I would’ve noticed you.”

“Oh, really?” She arched a brow.

“From miles away. You would’ve stood out.” Yujin answered simply.

Wonyoung felt her ears warm, and she looked ahead to the ride gate to avoid eye contact. “Smooth talker.”

“Again,” Yujin said, stepping closer, “just being honest.”

They rode the carousel, the pirate ship and even the rotating swings. Yujin pretended to scream dramatically on the roller coaster just to make Wonyoung laugh and they took pictures in photo booths for remembrance.

On the way out, still in their uniforms, Wonyoung handed Yujin bungeoppang. “Since you let me pay for snacks, you’re eating this.”

Yujin bit into it happily. “I’m adding this to my list of childhood experiences I’m reclaiming with you.”

Day 3

Their last full day together was slower, softer. They slept in, shared leftover ramyeon and toast for brunch, wandered through a quiet book cafe near Wonyoung’s apartment before heading to the Han River in the evening. Yujin packed a picnic, simple things she insisted on preparing herself after Wonyoung teased her about possibly haven’t prepared a food for herself since the heiress has people to do that for her. Yujin had kimbap, cherry tomatoes, tteokbokki and two canned coffees. 

They found a grassy spot near the water. The cold air brushed against them as they sat shoulder to shoulder, sharing snacks and people watching. For a while, Wonyoung was warm, laughing, talking but then she went quiet.

Yujin noticed immediately. Her thumb, which has been tracing lazy circles on the back of Wonyoung’s hand, stilled. She turned slightly, “What’s on your mind?”

Wonyoung hesitated. “Nothing. Just thinking.”

“Thinking loudly.” Yujin said gently. “Talk to me.”

Wonyoung kept her eyes on the river. “You know I don’t…come from your world.”

The heiress frowned slightly. “We’ve talked about this.”

“I know,” Wonyoung tried to smile but it faltered. “But I keep thinking, what if one day you wake up and realize this is just…a phase? What if I’m not what your family expects? What if I can’t keep up with what your life demands? I don’t want to be someone you look back on as a mistake.”

Her voice was steady, but her fingers tightened around the fabric of her skirt.

“I just…” She went on softly. “If at any point you think you need someone else, someone on your level, I’d rather you tell me now before we’re in to deep.”

Silenced settled between them, not cold, not tense just weighted with meaning. Then Yujin shifted, turning fully toward her, expression was calm but unwavering.

“Wonyoung,” She said quietly. “look at me.”

Wonyoung did.

“Nothing about this, about us, is temporary to me. I’ve never been more sure about anything these past few years than I am about you.”

Wonyoung’s swallowed a lump on her throat, she tried to speak but Yujin continued.

“I’ve had relationships before but most of them were arranged. Convenient. Business-adjacent. I cared about some of those people as friends, but I never felt like I had a choice. Not really.”

She reached forward, her fingers brushing strands of Wonyoung’s hair behind her ear.

“You’re the first person I’ve chosen for myself. The first one who makes me feel like loving someone isn’t another obligation I was born into, but something I get to want. Something that feels…right.”

Wonyoung’s eyes softened, but tears glossed over them.

Yujin inhaled, steady and sure. “I love you.”

She said it simply, no hesitation, no theatrics, just the truth.

“I’m not saying it to make you say it back. I don’t want to pressure you but I need you to know how certain I am.”

For a moment, nothing moved. Then Wonyoung let out a breath that sounded a lot like a relief, and before Yujin could say anything else, she whispered, voice trembling but clear.

“I love you too.”

Yujin froze, surprised despite on what she just similarly said.

Wonyoung smiled. “I was scared to say it first, but I’ve felt it for a while.” She exhaled shakily. “You’re it for me, Yujinnie, and that’s terrifying…but also the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Yujin smile broke slowly across her face before she leaned in, cupping Wonyoung’s cheek and kissed her, soft, warm and sealing their words between them.

— — —

They returned to Wonyoung’s apartment in comfortable silence, their fingers still loosely intertwined from the walk back from the river. The high from confessions hadn’t worn off yet but reality, as always, waited by the door.

Inside, two open suitcases sat at opposite ends of the room. Yujin’s half packed luggage for Paris and Wonyoung’s duffel and carry on for next long haul rotation to Germany. They both stood there, neither moving toward their bags.

“You should probably finish packing.” Wonyoung murmured, though she made no effort to move toward her own.

“So should you.” Yujin countered softly.

But neither of them stepped away from each other.

“It won’t be three months this time.” Yujin said, seeing a small flicker of sadness cross Wonyoung’s features. “I’ll make sure of it. I don’t care if I have to move meetings, fake an emergency, I’m not waiting that long again.”

Wonyoung smiled weakly, guilt feeling in her chest. “I’ll try harder too. I know you made all the effort before. I’ll…I’ll do better this time.”

“You already do more than you think.” Yujin reassured.

The fell into silence, just looking at each other in the dim apartment light. And Yujin, ever the composed heiress, took every inch of Wonyoung’s face as if trying to memorize her. Her gentle stare was too much, in the softest, most overwhelming way. It made Wonyoung feel cherished in a way she’d never been looked at before.

Her heart beat rapidly. Maybe it was the small amount of soju they’d shared by the river earlier or maybe it was just love loosening her restraint, but courage pushed her forward.

She stepped closer. Yujin didn’t move, just watched, eyes dark, soft and hopeful.

Then Wonyoung kissed her.

Not a shy kiss but a deep, heavy breath stealing kiss that spoke of the weeks longing, the fear of distance and the rush of certainty.

Yujin reacted immediately, hands moving towards Wonyoung’s waist, pulling her closer like she’d been waiting hours instead of seconds. The kiss deepened, heads tilting, breaths mixing, soft sounds caught between parted lips.

A quiet gasp escaped Wonyoung when Yujin stepped forward, guiding her gently, never breaking the kiss, as Wonyoung walked backward. The edge of the bed bumped against the back of her legs.

Yujin’s hand came up to caress her cheek, the other warm at her waist and she broke the kiss just long enough to search Wonyoung’s face.

“Are you sure?” She whispered, voice low and careful.

Wonyoung’s answer came without words but in the way she pulled Yujin down to her again, kissing her with even more certainty.

Yujin exhaled soft against her lips, relief and desire mixing as she carefully maneuvered them onto the bed, Wonyoung beneath her, hands tangled in her collar.

There was no rush for more, just the need to be close, to make the most of the hours they still had. Neither one of them thought about packing again that night.

Between long, lingering kisses and the soft rustle of sheets, Yujin’s hand trailed along Wonyoung’s waist, guiding her gently further onto the bed. Their breathing was uneven, want and nerves mixing in the quiet room. Yujin’s lips traveled down the line of Wonyoung’s jaw when suddenly, a hand pressed lightly against her shoulder.

“Yujin…wait.”

Yujin stopped instantly, lifting her head. Her expression softened with concern. “Hey…talk to me.”

Wonyoung swallowed, cheeks flushed, small voice but steady. “I just…I’ve never…been with a woman before. I don’t want to..do something wrong or mess it up.”

For a moment, Yujin looked at her, then she smiled, the kind that reached her eyes and leaned in to press a slow, reassuring kiss to Wonyoung’s lips.

“You won’t mess anything up.” She whispered against her mouth. “We go at your pace, and I’ll guide you through anything you’re unsure about.”

Wonyoung exhaled shakily.

Yujin kissed the corner of her lips, her jaw, her cheek, each one patient and not rushed. “Just do whatever feels right. You don’t have to overthink it. And,” she added with a teasing glint in her eyes. “you don’t even have to touch me tonight if you’re not ready. Just letting me take care of you would be more than enough.”

Wonyoung stared at her. “That doesn’t seem fair.”

Yujin grinned, thumb brushing her lower lip. “Watching you come undone might actually kill me, in the best way. Trust me, I’ll live.”

Despite her flustered embarrassment, Wonyoung laughed softly. That eased the nervous knot in her chest. The tension melted into anticipation. She pulled Yujin back into a kiss, hungrier this time, fingers curling into her shirt like she’d finally let go of restraint.

And when Yujin finally touched her, with care, with confidence, Wonyoung realized how much of herself she’d been holding back all these years. Every gasp, every sound she didn’t know she could make left her lips before she could stop it, breathy, surprised, overwhelmed in the best way.

“Yujin…” she choked out at one point, her back arching as she clutched at the sheets and then at Yujin’s shoulders. “I…oh my god…”

Yujin hushed her with kisses and soft praises. “You’re perfect,” “Breathe for me,” “You’re doing so well, Baby.” and by the time a wave of pleasure finally broke over Wonyoung, she was half convinced she’d forgotten how to speak.

Wonyoung lay there, stunned, still catching her breath with her arm thrown over her eyes. Yujin lay beside her, brushing her hair from her forehead and placing gentle kisses on her temple.

But after a moment, Wonyoung turned to her with a determined look. “I’m not letting you off that easily.”

Yujin blinked, amused. “I told you, you don’t have to…”

“I want to.” Wonyoung cut in, surprising them both with her certainty. “I want you.”

At first, she was hesitant, unsure where to touch, how firm or soft to be but Yujin guided her with whispers of encouragement. And then, something clicked. Instinct and curiosity took over and the shyness turned into something bold, natural and hungry.

Yujin’s breath hitched, then staggered.

“Wony..” she managed, voice strained, eyes fluttering shut as her fingers curled into the sheets. “You…God…you said you were worried?”

Wonyoung gave a breathless small laugh against her skin. “I still am.”

“You shouldn’t be,” Yujin choked, her body trembling as the tension tightened. “You’re..ah..unbelievable…”

It didn’t take long before Yujin came undone beneath her, hand flying to cover her mouth as her back arched and a low, helpless sound escaped anyway. She saw stars, literally, and for a few seconds forgot where she was.

When she finally caught her breath, Wonyoung was hovering above her, wide eyed and flushed.

Yujin exhaled a laugh. “If that’s you ‘messing up’, I might actually be in trouble.”

Wonyoung hid her face in the crook of Yujin’s neck, shy and glowing all at once. Yujin just wrapped her arms around her and held her close.

They stayed like that, bare skin, tangled sheets, quiet breaths for a long while. Neither one brought up the suitcases waiting to be packed.

For tonight, distance wasn’t real yet, tomorrow could wait.

— — — 

They finally pulled themselves out of bed, still laughing and stealing kisses as they hurriedly get dressed. Between brushing teeth, fixing hair and shoving last minute things into suitcases, they kept bumping into each other in the small apartment, almost as if neither wanted to stop touching.

Yujin carried both of their luggage to the door before Wonyoung could protest.

“I can handle my own things.” She said, crossing her arms though the smile on her lips showed.

“I know. Let me do it anyway.” Yujin replied simply.

The drive to the airport was quiet, but not awkward. Wonyoung kept glancing sideways at Yujin behind the wheel, memorizing the curve of her nose, her profile in the morning and the faint marks she’d left along Yujin’s throat.

Yujin caught her staring once and smirked. “Like what you see?”

Wonyoung clicked her tongue and looked away. “I’m just making sure no French women erase my work.”

Yujin laughed softly. “Trust me, there’s nothing and no one I want to erase it for.”

When they arrived, Wonyoung helped unload the luggage even though she didn’t need to. They walked side by side through the glass doors and the staff and passengers in motion were filling up the terminal. They stopped right before security.

This was where they had to separate, different airlines, different destinations, different time zones.

Wonyoung took a breath. “Three months is banned. If it reaches two, I’ll fly to you myself.”

Yujin’s lips tugged into a smile, but her eyes were serious as she nodded. “And if it reaches one, I’ll already be on a plane before you can worry.”

They stood there, not moving, both reluctant to take the first step away.

Wonyoung played with the strap of her bag. “I’ll…text you before take off.”

“And I’ll call you before I land. Even if it’s 3AM where you are.” Yujin promised. “Come here.”

She opened her arms, and Wonyoung stepped into the them without hesitation. Yujin held her tight, one arm around her waist, the other across her back like she was afraid of letting go too soon.

Wonyoung’s fingers clutched the back of Yujin’s coat, breathing her in one more time. The scent of her cologne, the warmth of her body. she tried to lock it all in memory.

“Yujinnie?” She whispered.

“Mm?”

“Don’t let the next time be too far.”

Yujin leaned back just enough to look her in the eyes. “I’d cross oceans at thirteen hours’ notice for you. Don’t forget that.”

Before the moment slipped away, Yujin cupped Wonyoung’s cheek and kissed her, slow but certain. Not rushed, not dramatic, just real.

When they finally parted, both of them were a little breathless.

“Go before I throw your luggage in the Seine and keep you here.” Wonyoung said jokingly.

Yujin grinned. And then hesitated for a breath, gathering courage what was already showing all over her eyes. “Before we go…I don’t want this to stay unspoken.” She exhaled slowly. “Will you be my girlfriend? Officially. I want us to choose each other, not just feel it, but say it.”

There was not space between question and answer.

“Yes.” Wonyoung said immediately, like she’d been waiting for that moment. Her was sure. “Of course.”

For a second, Yujin just stared, as if she needed to confirm she heard her right. Then the brightest smile showed across her face, genuine and big.

“I finally get to call you mine.”

“You’ve been acting like that since day one.”

“Acting doesn’t count.” Yujin muttered, still smiling like she just won something priceless. “It’s so unfair, I finally ask you properly, and now I have to get on a plane.”

Wonyoung tried to lighten it with a smile. “Then hurry back to me and stop complaining.”

Yujin leaned in and pressed a kiss to Wonyoung’s forehead, lingering just a bit longer. When she stepped back, she still didn’t let go of her hand. “I’ll miss you.” She added, eyes tracing her now girlfriend’s face like she needed to memorize it.

“I’ll miss you too.” 

And then they finally turned in opposite directions, hearts full, hands empty but no longer uncertain about where they stood with each other. 

It wasn’t a goodbye, just another countdown.

—END—

Chapter Text

Flashback

The three months apart had not been easy, not for either of them. From the moment Wonyoung boarded the plane back to Seoul after their first encounter in Paris, and Yujin flew back to her world of meetings and expectations, they both slipped into a rhythm that was new, difficult and painfully deliberate.

They hadn’t defined anything back then, but the connections was unmistakable.

Daily Messages

Every day, without a fail, they updated each other.

Yujin would text in the morning (her time) fully aware Wonyoung was probably midway through a flight or halfway across the world.

Yujin:

Good Morning to me and maybe good evening to you? or midair? I don’t know, but I hope you slept.

Wonyoung:

Currently in Frankfurt. Ate a cup of ramen. Miss the way you say my name.

Yujin:

You saying that just made this board meeting feel useless. I miss you too.

Wonyoung sent pictures occasionally, airport lounges, clouds outside the cabin, the tiny hotel on overnight layovers. Yujin returned with photos of sunsets in Paris from her office window, the coffee she wished Wonyoung was there to steal sips from and her bed with a joking captions: “This side’s empty and offended.”

Late Night/Early Morning Calls

They learned each other’s time zones. Sometimes Wonyoung land at 2AM Seoul time, only to find a message waiting:

Yujin:

Are you home yet? Call me if you’re not exhausted.

Sometimes Yujin would step away from an event or dinner, hiding in a hallway just to hear Wonyoung’s voice. And sometimes Wonyoung call at dawn in Europe just so Yujin could fall asleep listening to her talk.

There were whispered “I miss you.” Soft sighs and promises like:

“I can’t wait to see you again.”

“Next time we meet, don’t let me out of your sight.”

The Missed Call Incident

Then there was the night things went sideways.

They had planned a video call, both of them cleared the time.

Wonyoung even said no to drinks with her crew so she could return to her apartment and wait.

The time came and went.

No call. No message.

Wonyoung tried to be understanding but disappointment clung to her. Hours passed before she finally fell asleep on the sofa with her phone still in hand.

The next morning, she saw a few missed calls and a single text:

Yujin:

I’m so sorry. Emergency meeting. I’ll explain.

Wonyoung wasn’t angry, just hurt in a way she hated admitting. She went about her day off, busying herself with mundane chores and declined Jiwon’s invite for a brunch.

Twenty for hours later, a knock came at her apartment door. She opened it to find a delivery box nearly half her height, addressed to her. Inside was a care package meticulously put together:

• Her favorite instant ramyun brand, the one she mentioned once in passing.
• A fluffy pair of socks that looked too expensive
• French pastries sealed in careful wrapping so they wouldn’t crumble
• A small candle that smelled faintly like Yujin’s scent
• And tucked on top, a black envelope with her name written on hand

She opened it.

Inside was a small note card, the familiar handwriting.

“I’m sorry. Forgive me?

I miss you, Wony.”

Underneath it, another line written like it was added last-minute.

“Please tell me you’re still mine to miss.”

Wonyoung read it three times before she finally called.

The moment Yujin picked up, relief laced in her voice.

“I should’ve messaged. The meeting was a disaster, and they locked us in that boardroom. I hated missing you.”

“I wasn’t mad.” Wonyoung murmured.

“You were…a little sulky.” Yujin teased.

She didn’t deny it. “Maybe a little.”

“I’ll make it up to you a hundred times. Just don’t pull away from me.” 

The were no more missed calls after that, at least not without warning and apology in advance.

Yujin’s Moment of Jealousy

One afternoon, in between meetings, Yujin checked Instagram and she saw a recent post from Wonyoung.

The post is a series of pictures with Wonyoung and some of the flight crew at a private KBBQ restaurant. They were smiling, clinking shot glasses, looking happy and relaxed.

Yujin lingered longer than she would admit, but her thumb stopped at the fourth picture. 

A male flight attendant was standing beside Wonyoung, his hand casually resting on her waist. Wonyoung was smiling, head tilted closer and comfortably to him. 

Something in Yujin twisted at the sight. Possessiveness? Jealousy? She wouldn’t yet admit.  She didn’t comment, didn’t like the picture. But she thought about it way too much.

On their next video call, she tried to sound casual while listening to Wonyoung’s story about Jiwon handing her shots after shots of soju.

“…and she thought she can outdrink me and Ki-bum.” Wonyoung chuckled.

“I’m glad you had fun. I saw your post in IG, it looked…lively.” Yujin said, swirling the coffee in her mug slowly. “Everyone seemed close.”

Wonyoung caught the tone instantly. “Are you referring to the person with his hand on my waist?” She asked dead-on.

“I didn’t say that.”

“You didn’t have to.” Wonyoung tried to smile. “That’s Ki-bum. He’s gay. Very, very gay. He calls me ‘Unnie’ sometimes even though he’s older than me.”

Yujin let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding and rubbed the back of her neck. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have assumed. I don’t even have the right to be…”

“Jealous?” Wonyoung cut her off.

Yujin hesitated. “Yeah. That.”

Wonyoung shook her head. “For someone so composed, you’re terrible at hiding it.”

“I’m working on it.” She sighed. “But…you’re free to do whatever you want. We’re not…”

“Don’t finish that.” Wonyoung cuts her once again. “I only have one person I’m interested in.”

Yujin couldn’t stop her smile. “I’ll pretend I don’t know who you mean.”

“Pretend all you want.” Wonyoung replied, cheeks warm. “It’s still you.”

— — — 

For three long months, they loved each other quietly, through stolen hours, tired voiced, clumsy selfies and longing.

Neither dared to call it what it was yet but the way their chest ached whenever they hung up, the way Yujin sometimes whispered “stay” to a screen that had already turned black, the way Wonyoung replayed the sound of Yujin’s voice when she couldn’t fall asleep, they already knew.

They just hadn’t said it out loud. 

Not yet. 

—END—

Chapter Text

The call came while Wonyoung was in her hotel room in Munich, sitting cross legged-on the bed after a long flight. Yujin sounded lighter than usual, that certain tone in her voice she only used when she was up to something.

“Baby, are you free on the 12th?”

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes immediately. “That depends. Why do I feel like you’re about to convince me to do something?”

Yujin laughed, unbothered.

“There’s a fundraising gala in Seoul. I’m invited every year. And this time, I want to take you as my date.”

Wonyoung blinked, stunned. “As your…?”

“As my girlfriend, of course. My friends, business partners, they’ll all be there. I want them to meet you.”

Wonyoung’s chest tightened with a mix of nerves and warmth. “You sure about that?”

“I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to see you again.” She finished with a grin that Wonyoung could hear through the phone.

— — — 

The morning of the gala, Yujin and her assistant Rei’s flight landed early in Seoul. She sent Wonyoung a text the moment she got into the car.

Yujin:

Landed. On my way to the hotel. Can’t wait to see you.

Wonyoung:

I’ll meet you there after my shift. Don’t fall asleep without me.

Yujin:

Not a chance, babe.

By late afternoon, Wonyoung arrived at the hotel suite Yujin was staying in. She rang the bell once, and the door flew open.

Rei stood there, bright eyed and practically bouncing in excitement.

“You’re finally here!” She said, pulling Wonyoung into a hug before the latter could even react. “I’m Rei. The assistant, the baby sitter, and the emotional support human your girlfriend forced into overtime because she couldn’t stop daydreaming about you during meetings.”

Wonyoung blinked but laughed, already liking her. “I’m sorry you had to deal with her.”

“I’m not.” Rei said grinning. “Watching her pretend to be professional while secretly texting you is the highlight of my job.”

Yujin walked out from the bedroom, cheeks slightly red. “Rei, stop exposing me.”

Rei shrugged. “I only speak facts.” Then she looked at Wonyoung again. “It’s really nice to meet you. She talks about you more than she breathes.”

Yujin groaned, gently nudging Rei toward the door. “Please go check the car or something.”

“I already did. Twice. But fine, I’ll give you two a minute.”

When Rei finally left the suite, Wonyoung turned to Yujin with a teasing smile. “You talk about me more than you breathe?”

Yujin slipped her arms around Wonyoung’s waist. “She exaggerated. I do breathe sometimes.”

Before Wonyoung could respond, there was a knock on the door. Two stylists and a make up artist stepped in, rolling in garment of racks and make up kits. 

Wonyoung froze. “Yujin…” She whispered, eyes wide. “You said we’d get ready together. You didn’t mention a glam team.”

“I know. But it’s gala with half the business world attending. I wanted you to feel taken care of.” She answered.

Wonyoung sighed but didn’t argue, especially when one of the stylists gasped at her beauty. “Your face is perfect for this make up look.”

Yujin disappeared briefly to get ready in the bedroom while Wonyoung sat for hair and make up. By the time she changed into the dress Yujin had picked, an elegant, black fitted piece that shaped her beautifully, she hardly recognized herself in the mirror.

Meanwhile, Yujin walked out in a tailored feminine tuxedo, sharp lines, sleek silhouette, open collar, no tie. Her short hair neatly styled, make up minimal but clean.

Wonyoung stared. Yujin also stared. They both didn’t speak at first.

Then Yujin breathed out, stunned. “Baby… you look unreal.”

Wonyoung felt her cheeks heat up. “Look who’s talking.”

At that moment, Rei popped her head back in and instantly threw both hands in the air. “Oh my god. Are you two seeing yourselves right now? It’s giving power couple energy. Like embarrassingly powerful.”

Yujin smirked. “As it should.”

The glam team finished packing up and left with Rei, shutting the door behind them. Silence settled in the suite.

Wonyoung instinctively fixed Yujin’s collar. “You clean up too well.”

Yujin rested her hands on Wonyoung’s hips. “You’re the one making it hard for me to think.”

Wonyoung laughed softly. “We’re going to be late.”

“Worth it.” Yujin whispered before kissing her slow and careful, full of pride and awe.

They only pulled away when Wonyoung tapped her chest and said, “My lipstick.”

“I’ll fix it.” Yujin said, kissing the corner of her mouth again.

Wonyoung breathed out in disbelief and happiness. “You’re impossible.”

“And you’re beautiful. Ready to walk in there with me?”

Wonyoung nodded, fingers lacing with hers. Yujin smiled when she noticed, like she always did. 

Before anyone could knock or call them down, they kissed again. Not rushed, not nervous. Just completely in love and proud to be seen together.

— — — 

They left the hotel suite hand in hand, fingers naturally laced, and took the private elevator down to the lobby. The black car Yujin arranged was already waiting outside. Rei gave them one last thumbs-up before heading to a separate car with staff.

The driver opened the back door, and Yujin helped Wonyoung in first before sliding in beside her. For a few minutes during the drive, silence felt warm and comfortable. Yujin rested her hand over Wonyoung’s, thumb brushing slowly over her knuckles. Wonyoung stared ahead, then down, then out the window. Something in her expression shifted.

Yujin turned to her. “What’s going on in that head?”

Wonyoung hesitated, then masked it with a smile that didn’t fully reached her eyes. “I was just…thinking.”

“About?”

There was a beat of silence before Wonyoung spoke in a soft, almost joking tone. “I was wondering if I should come up with a fake backstory. You know, so I can seem like I belong in those circles tonight.” She let out a small, awkward laugh. “Maybe I can pretend I’m the secret granddaughter of the Samsung CEO or something.”

Yujin didn’t laugh.

Wonyoung glanced at her, suddenly self-conscious. “I’m kidding. Kind of.”

Yujin kept her gaze gentle but steady. “You don’t need to pretend to be anyone.”

Wonyoung looked back out of the window. “Your world is full of people who grew up with status and old money. I’m just a flight attendant with divorced parents and a tiny apartment. What if they look at me and wonder why I’m next to you?”

Yujin shifted closer, turning her body toward her. “I know you’re joking to hide it, but I hear what you’re really saying.” Her voice softened. “And I need you to know, there is nothing about you I would ever want to change or lie about.”

Wonyoung didn’t respond immediately, but her fingers tightened around Yujin’s.

“I’m proud of you. Proud of what you do, how you live, who you are. I don’t love you because of your last name, bank account or address. I love you because you’re you.”

Wonyoung’s throat bobbed as she swallowed. “It’s not that I’m ashamed. I just…don’t want to embarrass you.”

Yujin frowned at that. “You could never embarrass me. And you don’t need to ‘level up’ to fit in.” She lifted Wonyoung’s hand and pressed a kiss on her palm. “In my eyes, you’re already higher than any of them.”

That melted something in Wonyoung’s chest, but a trace of insecurity still lingered in her expression and Yujin noticed right away.

She gently tilted Wonyoung’s chin toward her. “Look at me.”

Wonyoung met her eyes.

“Do you love me?” Yujin asked simply.

Wonyoung blinked, surprised by the question. “Of course I do.”

“Then that’s all that matters. You’re all that matters to me.”

The sincerity in her voice left no room for doubt.

Wonyoung released a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. The tension in her shoulders softened. Then she slowly leaned in and pressed her lips to Yujin’s, soft, slow and grateful and the latter kissed her back with the same certainty she spoke moments ago.

When they pulled away, Yujin rested their foreheads together. “We walk in there as us. Not who people expect, not who they assume, and definitely not Samsung’s imaginary heiress.”

Wonyoung let out a quiet laugh at that, this time genuine. “Okay.”

“And don’t forget, they should be honored to meet you, not the other way around.” Yujin added with a small smirk.

Wonyoung smiled, finally feeling lighter. She threaded her fingers through Yujin’s again. “Thank you.”

Yujin kissed the back of her hand. “Always.”

The car continued toward the venue, city lights passing by and Wonyoung, still nervous but knew one thing for sure. With Yujin beside her, she could face anything.

— — —

The car arrived at the grand entrance of the gala venue. The driver opened the door and Yujin stepped out first, turning immediately to offer her hand to Wonyoung. The second she emerged from the car, elegant, poised, her arm naturally linking through Yujin’s, heads around them turned.

Some looked out of curiosity, others out of admiration. A few barely concealed surprise.

It wasn’t unusual for An Yujin to draw eyes wherever she went, but tonight, it was the woman beside her who stole half the attention. The pair of them together, they looked like they had walked out of a magazine cover.

Yujin didn’t hide her pride, she wore it openly. Her hand settled on the small of Wonyoung’s back, guiding her inside with a confidence that said: she’s with me.

As they entered the ballroom, music could be heard and servers passed by with champagne. Immediately, familiar faces approached.

“Yujin, you made it!” one businessman greeted, eyes inevitably sliding to Wonyoung.

Yujin smiled, composed and deliberate. “Yes. And this is Wonyoung, my girlfriend.”

She said it without hesitation. No softer tone, no second guessing.

Wonyoung bowed politely as she greeted whoever Yujin introduced her to, accepting compliments with a soft smile.

“You’re stunning.” one bachelor said, almost in awe.

Another added, “You have excellent taste, Yujin.”

Wonyoung thanked them graciously, but Yujin’s arm slipped around her waist every time a gaze lingered too long. Sometimes Yujin’s fingers would curl around Wonyoung’s hand. Other times she’d link their arms again before anyone could try to separate them with conversation.

It wasn’t jealousy, it was claiming, protecting and quietly showing that Wonyoung wasn’t here as decoration. She was here as hers.

They were mid-conversation with a group of CEOs when someone called from behind, voice playful and familiar.

“Well, well. Look who decided to show up looking like a walking heart attack.”

Yujin turned, already smiling before she even saw the face. “Karina.”

Yu Karina, sharp-boned beauty in a custom designer dress, radiating the effortless aura of old money and high breeding, approached with a glass in hand. But despite her appearance, she pulled Yujin into a quick hug with the ease of someone who knew her before the business empires and boardrooms.

Beside her stood her girlfriend, Kim Winter, a Korean singer with a voice recognized across the country.

Wonyoung bowed politely, but Karina beat her to speaking.

“And this must be the woman I’ve heard more about in the past month than any of Yujin’s mergers.

Winter playfully elbowed her. “Don’t embarrass them.”

Yujin squeezed Wonyoung’s hand tightly. “Wonyoung, this is Karina, my childhood friend and her girlfriend, Winter.”

Karina gave Wonyoung an elegant once over, then grinned. “You’re even prettier in person. Finally, someone who can match her face card.”

Winter added with a warm smile. “It’s nice to finally meet you. I was starting to think Yujin had made you up.”

Wonyoung relaxed at their friendliness. “It’s really nice to meet both of you. And Winter, I..I actually listen to your music a lot.”

The singer’s eyes widened a bit. “You do?”

“She does.” Yujin confirmed proudly. “She has you on her playlist.”

“That’s adorable.” Karina teased lightly.

Winter laughed under her breath. “Thank you. That means a lot.”

Karina took a sip of her drink and asked. “So what do you do, Wonyoung? I want to know everything about the woman who makes our heiress here rearrange entire meeting schedules.”

Yujin shot her a look, but Karina only smirked.

Wonyoung tucked a strand of hair behind her ear before answering calmly. “I’m a flight attendant. I work for a major airline.”

Karina’s eyebrows lifted, not in judgment but in interest. “That’s incredible.”

Winter leaned in, genuinely curious. “Do you fly internationally?”

“Yes, mostly long-haul routes.” Wonyoung answered with a small nod.

“You must have a lot of stories. I’d love to hear them sometime.” Winter added.

Yujin looked at her friends with quiet appreciation. No weird tone, no shift in demeanor, not condescending at all, just openness and respect for her girlfriend.

Wonyoung felt the tension she’d tucked away earlier ease even more. They didn’t see her as someone who didn’t belong. They saw her as Wonyoung.

Yujin’s hand slid back into hers, finger lacing. She didn’t say it out loud, but her eyes said it all.

See? You’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

And for the first time that night, Wonyoung fully believed it.

— — — 

The four of them stick together as the evening goes on. They moved from one corner of the hall to another, chatting between greetings and polite small talk with other guests. The conversation between the four flows easily. Karina and Yujin teasing each other, Winter occasionally nudging Karina when she gets too blunt and Wonyoung quietly enjoying how natural it felt to be part of their dynamic.

At one point, while Yujin and Karina were looking over the auction items on displayed near the stage, Karina freezes mid-sentence and tilted her head.

“Oh,” she said, not even trying to hide the amusement in her voice. “Look who’s here.”

Winter followed her gaze. “Of course she’s here. She always finds a way to slither into these things.”

Wonyoung turned her head ever so slightly, curious but not wanting to stare. She spotted a woman across the room, slightly tall, elegant, perfectly styled, the type you’d expect to see on TV. The woman has sharp eyes, lips pulled into an unreadable smirk, and she was very clearly looking at their group, more specifically at Wonyoung.

Karina noticed Wonyoung’s curious face. “It’s Minju. Yujin’s ex.”

Wonyoung blinked. The name meant nothing to her until Karina continued, far too casually. “Model turned actress. Very charming until she opens her mouth.”

Winter snorted. “To be fair, she still looks good, but she’s glaring like she got uninvited to her own birthday party.”

Karina leaned closer to Wonyoung and pointed discreetly with her champagne glass. “She’s been throwing knives with her eyes since she saw the two of you walk in.”

That caught Wonyoung off guard. “Me?”

Karina hummed. “Mm, maybe because Yujin never brought her to events like this.”

Winter nodded. “Yeah. First time we’re seeing Minju here with Yujin nowhere near her side.”

“And I was never a fan. She always assumed I was secretly dating Yujin and treated me like the other woman.” Karina added with a smug.

“She thought every girl Yujin talked to was a threat.”

Wonyoung stayed quiet, absorbing the new information. She didn’t jump to conclusions but she definitely fits a few pieces together. The looks, the tension. The reason Minju’s gazes kept slicing through the crowd toward them.

Yujin glanced at her, trying to read her expression but failed. Wonyoung only gave a small nod to show she was fine, even if she had thoughts swirling in her head.

A moment later, Karina and Winter excused themselves to greet someone across the room and left the two of them alone in a quieter corner.

As soon as they were out of earshot, Yujin gently took both of Wonyoung’s hands and turned to face her.

“I didn’t know she’d be here.” Yujin said quietly. “I swear I wasn’t hiding it, I just…didn’t think she mattered enough to bring up. It wasn’t serious between us. She’s just someone from my past.”

Wonyoung raised an eyebrow. “Are you explaining or panicking?”

Yujin hesitated. “…maybe both?”

Wonyoung didn’t make her sweat for long. “You don’t have to explain, Yujinnie. I don’t care who you dated before me.”

The heiress relaxed a little, though she still looked cautious. “I just didn’t want you to feel blindsided.”

“I’m not.” Wonyoung assured her. “The only thing I care about is that you’re mine now, and I’m yours.”

Yujin smiled at that, but it widened when Wonyoung added, with a low voice and deceptively sweet.

“But I’m also not promising to behave if she keeps staring over here. If she wants to keep looking, I just have to make sure she sees exactly who you belong to.”

That did something to Yujin, judging by the spark in her eyes.

“Oh?” she said, stepping closer, amused and pleased. “And how would you do that?”

Wonyoung slid her hand up Yujin’s arms and gave a slow, confident smile. “A little PDA. Maybe not letting you out of my sight. Holding your hand. Staying close. You know, just staking my claim.”

Yujin practically beamed, voice dropping with affection. “I love that you’re territorial.”

“Only because people keep staring at you.”

“Let them. They should know I’m already taken.”

“And if she tries anything?”

“I’ll handle it.” Yujin replied. “But I have a feeling you’ll get there first.”

Wonyoung didn’t deny it and Yujin didn’t want her to.

With Minju still watching from across the room, Yujin laced their fingers together again and pressed a kiss to the back of Wonyoung’s hand, unapologetic, intentional and for everyone to see, and especially to the person who needed to.

— — — 

After a while, the program transitioned into the mingling portion of the gala. Soft music played, champagne flowed and group of high profile guests began drifting between tables.

Yujin guided Wonyoung through the room with an easy confidence, but she never let go of her hand or her waist. Every time someone approached, an investor, a fellow heir, a representative from a major corporation, Yujin introduced Wonyoung first before anything else.

And every single time, without fail, people’s faces lit up with admiration or polite surprise.

At one point, an older Japanese CEO and his wife approached Yujin with warm familiarity.

“An Yujin-ssi, it’s been too long.” the man greeted in Japanese.

Yujin bowed slightly and returned the greeting in the same language. “It’s good to see you Mr. Sato.” and before she could translate anything for Wonyoung, the wife looked toward her with a kind smile and asked a question, in Japanese, as if assuming Wonyoung might not understand.

To Yujin’s shock, Wonyoung replied instantly.

Her tone was respectful but natural, the flow of her words flawless. She carried the conversation comfortably, asking the wife about their trip to Seoul, complimenting her kimono-inspired dress and spoke as though she was a native speaker.

Yujin stood there, absolutely floored.

The couple seemed delighted, especially the wife, who seemed visibly charmed by how effortlessly Wonyoung conversed with them. When they parted ways, the CEO told Yujin, “You’ve chosen someone remarkable.”

As soon as they were out of earshot, Yujin leaned toward Wonyoung. “Excuse me, since when do you speak Japanese like you were born in Tokyo?”

Wonyoung shrugged, amused. “Since forever?”

Before Yujin could ask more, they were approached by another couple, a French art curator and her husband, both regular donors at these events.

They greeted Yujin in French, and again, Yujin prepared to answer only for Wonyoung to beat her to it in perfect, fluid French. She complimented the woman’s jewelry and casually mentioned a recent art exhibit in Paris that the curator was involved in.

Yujin stared. Again.

The French couple was visibly impressed and engaged Wonyoung with enthusiasm before moving on to chat with someone else.

When they left, Yujin turned to her like she’s seeing her for the first time tonight.

“You speak fluent French too?!”

Wonyoung chuckled slightly. “We literally spoke French to people while we were out in about in Paris, why are you so surprised about this?”

“Yeah but they were basic French, not conversational.” Yujin narrowed her eyes. “How many languages do you speak exactly?”

Wonyoung gently took a sip of her drink before replying, tone casual. “Including Korean? Five. English, Japanese, French, and Spanish. I guess five and a half if we include my mid-conversational Mandarin. It comes with the job.”

Yujin was quiet for three seconds, then said. “I am so in love with you it’s actually unreal.”

Wonyoung laughed and nudged her. “Don’t look at me like that.”

“I can’t help it. Here I am thinking I’m the impressive one and then you just casually speak to billionaires in their mother tongue like it’s nothing.”

Wonyoung tilted her head. “Are you jealous I’m stealing the spotlight?”

“I’m obsessed that you are.” Yujin corrected proudly. “Do you know how hard I’m trying not to brag right now?”

Wonyoung grinned, cheeks warming just a little. “You don’t have to brag.”

“Oh I most definitely will.”

And she did. With every new person they greeted, every handshake and polite conversation, Yujin introduced Wonyoung with just a little extra pride in her voice. She watched her girlfriend navigate the room with grace, answer questions intelligently, and charmed people without even trying.

And every few minutes, when someone walked away whispering to their companion about “An Yujin’s stunning, multilingual girlfriend,” the heiress just smiled like she built the universe herself.

She didn’t leave Wonyoung’s side, not because she felt the need to guard her, but because she genuinely can’t get enough of watching her shine.

— — —

Yujin was mid-conversation with an older CEO about a potential project in Singapore when Wonyoung leaned in and whispered that she was going to the restroom. Instinctively, Yujin reached for her hand like she was ready to escort her, but Wonyoung just smiled and tapped her wrist.

“I’ll be back before you even miss me. Keep talking business, Miss An.”

Yujin gave her a look that said I already miss you, but she stayed put.

Wonyoung walked through the elegant crowd and found the restroom easily. She stepped in front of the large mirror and did a quick touch-up: a dab to her lipstick, a smooth over her hair, and a small inhale to steady the flutter inside her stomach from the night so far.

Then the door opened. In the reflection of the mirror, someone stepped beside her.

Minju.

Of all places, all times, it had to be now.

The actress adjusted her earrings like she owned the room, not sparing even a glance until she finished checking herself. Wonyoung continued fixing a small crease on her dress and pretended not to notice her.

It was polite and controlled.

Minju, however, had other plans.

“So,” she said casually, still pretending to admire herself, “You’re the new…past time?”

Wonyoung didn’t move, didn’t look at her. Just blinked once.

Minju smirked at her in silence. “Don’t take it personally. Yujin cycles through phases. You’re just the current one. She get over things, and people fast. Comes with being who she is.”

Wonyoung could tell by the tone and the too casual delivery that Minju’s trying to provoke her. She thought she’s baiting someone naive, someone easily rattled.

She picked the wrong target.

Wonyoung calmly capped her lipstick and placed it back in her clutch before finally meeting Minju’s gaze in the mirror.

“Interesting.” she said softly, “Because she hasn’t mentioned you once.”

That alone made Minju tense, barely, but enough.

Wonyoung turned slightly toward her, posture relaxed, eyes clear. “And just so we’re accurate, I’m not her past time.”

She let the words hung before continuing, voice still polite, almost sweet. “I’m her girlfriend. Not a placeholder, not a moment, not a hobby.”

Minju’s smugness flickered.

Wonyoung gave her a small, pleasant smile. “Whatever you think you know about Yujin..that sounds like a you and her problem from the past. Not mine and not hers anymore.”

She stepped back, glancing over herself one last time in the mirror.

“And if you truly believe she loses interest easily, you wouldn’t still be watching her from across every room.”

Minju froze.

Wonyoung turned to leave, but paused at the doorway, just long enough to twist the knife of elegance.

“Oh, and next time you want to talk about Yujin, try not to sound like someone she left behind.”

With that, she walked out without another glance.

Minju stayed rooted to the spot, cheeks hot with the sting of being dismissed so smoothly, so confidently, without Wonyoung ever breaking class or composure.

And Wonyoung? She didn’t rush. She headed back to the ballroom with her head high, unbothered, untouched and very much winning.

— — —

Wonyoung walked back into the ballroom and found Yujin first. The heiress was no longer talking business and was instead back with Karina and Winter, champagne glass in hand. The moment Yujin saw her walking through the crowd, her whole expression softened like instinct. She stepped beside Yujin, and the latter’s arm naturally found its way around her waist, pulling her in close.

“You okay?” Yujin asked quietly, voice low enough only she could hear.

Wonyoung gave a soft nod, eyes still forward. “Yeah, just had to…fix a few things in there.”

She didn’t clarify, she didn’t need to.

Yujin followed her gaze for a split second, toward the restroom, and that was when she saw Minju emerged. The actress looked irritated, eyes scanning until they land on Yujin’s back.

Yujin said nothing. She didn’t ask what happen, she didn’t pressed but the understanding was immediate, and satisfying.

She turned back to her girlfriend, eyes warm with a quiet kind of pride. Then, without a warning, she leaned in and kissed her, slow, deliberate and certain. The kind of kiss that made a statement without words.

When she pulled back, she pressed her forehead briefly to Wonyoung’s and whispered, “I love you.” and Wonyoung smiling, barely above a whisper said “I love you too.”

Right on cue, Karina made a dramatic gagging noise.

“Stop being a hater.” Yujin said, smirking at her friend.

“I’m not.” Karina playfully rolled her eyes.

Winter wrapped an arm around Karina to pull her closer. “I think they’re cute, jagi.”

“Okay but we can be cute too. Kiss me and tell me you love me too, but be more dramatic about it.”

Winter just shook her head in amusement but still obeyed her girlfriend’s request.

— — —

The lights dimmed slightly as the emcee walked back onto the stage and announced the start of the auction portion of the gala. Servers started circling with drinks while couples and business moguls find their seats again.

Yujin leaned toward Wonyoung and murmured near her ear. “Pick something you like and bid on it.”

Wonyoung turned and stared at her like she misheard. “Bid? With what money? The only thing I can afford in this room is probably the table holding the items.”

Yujin chuckled. “I’m serious. I’ll handle the payment. Just think of it as you doing a good deed, donating a ridiculous amount of money on my behalf.”

Wonyoung narrowed her eyes at her but couldn't help the small laugh. “You’re absurd.”

“And you love it.” 

The items roll one by one: art pieces, luxury cars, rare wines, but it was the next one that caught Wonyoung’s attention.

“A one week romantic getaway in Italy.” The emcee announced. “Private villa, yacht tour, vineyard dinners and a personal chef.”

Wonyoung tried to look uninterested, but Yujin caught the tiny spark in her eyes.

“Bid on that one.” Yujin said, already lifting Wonyoung’s paddle to hand her.

She sighed dramatically. “Fine. But if they send debt collectors after me, I’m blaming you.”

The bidding started.

A few voices went back and forth, until one man across the room confidently raised his paddle and doubles the price without thinking.

Something in Wonyoung shifted. She raised her paddle again.

The man smirked and raised his.

Wonyoung raised hers higher.

The room started paying attention. Karina whistled under her breath. “She’s going to bankrupt your bank account, Yujin.”

“She’s worth it.” Yujin replied.

The back and forth continued until the emcee called for the final amount and announced, “Sold! To the pretty lady in the black dress.”

Applause followed and Yujin beamed, actually beamed at Wonyoung like she just won a trophy.

“You were amazing.” Yujin whispered, brushing a kiss to her cheek.

“I just fought for my right to spend your money.” She muttered.

“And I’m proud of you.” 

The applause was still fading when the cocky heir approached, scotch in hand and swagger in his step. Up close, he was even more self-assured, eyes traveling over Wonyoung in a slow, appreciative look that bordered on predatory.

He stepped in front of her and flashed a polished smile. “Impressive bidding.” he said, gaze lingering a second too long on the line of her dress. “And even more impressive woman. You wear that gown like it was stitched onto you.”

Wonyoung forced a polite smile. “Thank you.”

He didn’t stop there. His eyes drag across her with no shame. “Even if I had won, I would’ve taken you there myself and made sure you wouldn’t want to leave the villa.”

Before Wonyoung could react, Yujin stepped in so seamlessly like she had always been there. Her hand slid around Wonyoung’s waist with gentle possession, her smile elegant but edged.

“That’s an interesting fantasy.” Yujin said calmly. “But unfortunately for you, she already has someone who takes her everywhere she wants to go.”

The man blinked at Yujin, surprised but amused. “And you are?”

“An Yujin.” She replied smoothly. “Her girlfriend and the one she’ll be sharing that villa with.” She tilted her head slightly, still smiling. “So you won’t need to imagine her in Italy. I’ll be the one seeing her there.”

He raised his brow. “Didn’t realize she was…taken.”

Yujin’s eyes remained kind but cool. “She’s not ‘taken.’ She’s chosen. There’s a difference. But I understand why you’re confused, some people look at her and assume she’s available because they want her to be.”

A subtle flush touched his jaw. He tried to recover gracefully. “Well, then congratulations to you both.”

Yujin’s hand tightened ever so slightly on Wonyoung’s waist. “We’ll take that. Congrats on losing the bid.”

He laughed shortly, more embarrassed than entertained, and retreated with what dignity he had left.

The moment he was gone, Wonyoung finally exhaled the breath she didn’t realize she was holding. She turned to Yujin, half flustered, half turned on.

“That was…”

“Necessary.” Yujin finished.

“No.” She corrected softly, eyes dark. “That was hot.”

Yujin raised a brow, amused but she saw the look in her girlfriend’s eyes. Before she could tease, Wonyoung grabbed her hand.

“Come with me. Now.”

She pulled Yujin away from the crowd and lead them down a side hallway. They slip into a dim, quiet corner near an emergency exit, just out of sight from anyone passing by.

The second they were alone, Wonyoung pushed Yujin back against the wall and kissed her like she had been holding herself back all evening. There was nothing polite or delicate about it, just hunger and adrenaline, and want.

Yujin reacted instantly.

One hand slid into Wonyoung’s hair, the other gripped her waist as she deepened the kiss with equal intensity. Their mouths move like they’ve been starving for days.

Wonyoung pressed closer, lips parting, breath mixing with Yujin’s. She nipped Yujin’s bottom lip and whispered against her mouth. “He was looking at me like I was up for auction.”

Yujin let out a quiet, heated laugh against her lips. “And now he knows you’re not.”

Wonyoung kissed her harder in response, fingers curling into the lapel of Yujin’s tux. Yujin pulled her closer, their bodies flush, lips moving feverishly.

A soft, breathy sound escaped Wonyoung when Yujin dragged her lips to the corner of her mouth, then back in for another deep kiss.

“You have no idea how impossible it is not to kiss you in front of everyone.” She murmured lowly between kisses.

“Then don’t stop now.” Wonyoung breathed, kissing her again, slower this time, savoring the warmth of Yujin’s mouth.

— — — 

The gala wound down with the final auction item, polite applause and the slow dispersing of Seoul’s elite. Yujin slip her hand into Wonyoung’s and guided her toward the exit, where Karina and Winter were waiting with their coats.

Karina grinned at them both. “You two better not disappear from us after tonight.”

Winter nodded. “Seriously. We’re holding you hostage next time.”

Karina turned to Wonyoung with a warm smile. “Double date soon, okay? Somewhere without people in gowns and billion-won watches.”

Wonyoung chuckled. “I’d like that.”

Karina raised an eyebrow at Yujin. “Make time for it. Don’t drown yourself in meetings.”

Yujin lifted a hand in surrender. “I’ll clear my schedule.” Then she glanced at her girlfriend. “As long as he promises too.”

Karina pointed at Wonyoung playfully. “You heard her. If she bails, I’ll blame you.”

Wonyoung laughed and nodded. “I promise.”

They exchange hugs before parting ways.

When they reached the hotel suite, Yujin unlocked the door and let Wonyoung step inside first. The room was spotless, grand and still scented faintly with their perfumes earlier.

As the door clicked shut, Wonyoung unhooked her earrings, placing them on the vanity table. Yujin shrugged off her jacket, draping it over a chair before turning to her.

“Well?” She asked softy, “Did you…enjoy tonight?”

Wonyoung met her gaze and smiled, genuine and easy. “I did. More than I expected. Thank you for taking me with you. For introducing me to everyone, for showing me off.”

Yujin waved a hand dismissively, eyes still soft. “You don’t thank me for things that make me happy. Honestly, I’m the one who should be grateful.”

Wonyoung looked at her, curious. “For what?”

“For stepping into my world so naturally. For not pretending and for being…effortlessly you.”

She stepped closer, gaze trailing openly over Wonyoung’s figure.

“And for wearing that dress and making every single person there wish they were me.”

Wonyoung’s lips twitch. “You really liked it, huh?”

“Liked is too weak.” Yujin murmured. “You looked…ethereal. And I haven’t stopped thinking about how many times I wanted to just leave the gala and come back here to…”

“Undress me?” Wonyoung finished with a smirk.

Yujin didn’t even pretend to deny it. Her eyes darkened. “Exactly that.”

Wonyoung pretended to think for a moment, then tilted her head, voice dropping just a little.

“Then maybe you should.” She met Yujin’s gaze with quiet challenge, lips curving, “And take what’s yours.”

Yujin didn’t move right away, she just looked at Wonyoung for a second, like she was making sure she heard her correctly. Then she stepped in, close but not touching, and her voice dropped to something lower, rougher.

“Turn around for me, baby.”

Wonyoung turned, gathering her hair to one side. Yujin’s fingers found the small zipper at the base of the dress. She didn’t rush, she dragged it down slowly, the quiet sound of the zipper somehow deafening the room.

Her knuckles brushed Wonyoung’s spine as she went, featherlight, deliberate. The latter’s shivered under every touch, her breathing gave her away no matter how steady she tried to stay.

The zipper reached the bottom and Yujin slid the strap off her shoulders. The black dress slid down Wonyoung’s body, pooling at her feet like it was made to fall for Yujin’s hands only.

“Face me.” Yujin murmured, voice already thick.

Wonyoung turned and Yujin went utterly still.

Left in nothing but delicate lace undergarments, bare skin, curves and lines on full display, Wonyoung stood with a quiet confidence that only made Yujin’s pulse spike harder.

Yujin’s tongue wets her lips unconsciously. Her eyes trail down and back up, slow and possessive.

“God…” she exhaled, barely a whisper. “You’re beautiful.”

Wonyoung didn’t look away. “You keep saying that.”

“Because it keeps being true.” Yujin answered, unblinking, drinking her in from head to toe. “And every time I see you like this, it gets worse.”

Wonyoung closed the gap between them, her touch light at first, fingers gliding over Yujin’s chest, the expensive fabric of her shirt warming under her palms.

She hovered over the buttons, teasing but intentional, eyes never leaving Yujin’s.

“Worse, huh?”

Yujin’s breath hitched. “So much worse.”

Wonyoung let her fingertips slid down, undoing one button. Then another. Then another, slow, dragging out the effect just to watch Yujin’s restraint break thread by thread.

When the shirt finally parted, she slid her hands over bare skin, her touch traced along Yujin’s stomach and up to her sternum with sinful slowness.

Then her fingers drop to Yujin’s belt.

She unbuckled it with ease, the metallic click sounding louder than it should. She hooked two fingers into the belt loop and tugged, pulling Yujin toward her until there was barely space for air between them.

Wonyoung’s voice was barely more than breath. “Closer.”

Yujin obeyed without an argument, stepping in until their bodies aligned.

And then Wonyoung pulled her down by the open shirtfront and kissed her, hard, hungry and unapologetic.

Yujin didn’t just kiss back, she devoured the moment like she’d been starving for it all night. Her mouth didn’t leave Wonyoung’s for long. She trailed down with purpose, along the corner of her lips, across her jawline then lower, pressing slow kisses beneath her ear. Wonyoung’s breath hitched when Yujin paused there, lips warm against sensitive skin.

Then Yujin shifted, letting her mouth traveled down the column of Wonyoung’s throat. Each kiss was unhurried, like she was savoring every inch.

When she reached Wonyoung’s collarbone, she didn’t just kiss, she lingered, lips parting just slight before she sucked gently on the spot where shoulder meets bone. A soft, helpless sound escaped Wonyoung, surprising even herself.

“Yujin…” her voice was barely there, breath fanning against Yujin’s ear.

Yujin hummed in response, still kissing along her skin.

“I want you.” Wonyoung whispered, not rushed but just honest.

That’s all it took.

Yujin’s hand slid down to grip the backs of Wonyoung’s thighs, and without any strain, she lifted her. Strong arms secured her easily, biceps flexing under Wonyoung’s hands. Wonyoung wrapped her legs around Yujin’s waist like it was second nature, clinging to her as if she was weightless.

Their mouths found each other again before another word was spoken.

Yujin didn’t break the kiss as she walked them through the suite, steady and sure, every step filled with intention. Wonyoung’s finger tangled in her hair, pulling her impossibly closer despite already being pressed to her.

When Yujin reached the bed, she lowered Wonyoung onto the mattress with surprising gentleness. The latter propped herself up on her elbow, still catching her breath, watching.

Yujin straightened and began undressing the rest of the way.

The shirt was shrugged off first, then the slacks slid down her hips. Piece by piece, the expensive fabrics fell away until there was nothing left. Her body was all clean lines, defined muscles, and quiet power. Her abs flexing as she ran a hand through her short hair and looked down at Wonyoung like she was the only thing that matters.

Wonyoung didn’t hide the way she stared. She didn’t bother pretending she wasn’t affected, her eyes traveled slowly from Yujin’s shoulders down to her stomach, then lower, then back up again, lingering with open appreciation.

Yujin climbed onto the bed, moving over her with a controlled kind of hunger, caging Wonyoung in without touching her just yet. She hovered, close enough that Wonyoung could feel the heat from her skin but not closing the gap.

Wonyoung was still in her lace undergarments, chest rising and falling a little too quickly.

She met Yujin’s gaze, steady, unashamed and her voice dropped.

“Take them off me.”

Yujin didn’t hesitate. Her hands move to the straps and edges of lace, fingertips brushing over skin, and removed what’s left between them, slowly, carefully like unwrapping something she has been waiting for her whole life. Yujin leaned down over Wonyoung, lips tracing, sucking, and gently biting along the curves of her neck, collarbone and shoulders. Every soft moan and whispered name that escaped Wonyoung’s lips was like a spark to Yujin’s nerves, making her pulse quicken and her hands gripped Wonyoung’s hips a little tighter.

She didn’t rush, each kiss, each nibble was hungry but patient. Wonyoung shivered under her touch, tilting her head, gasping as Yujin pressed harder against the most sensitive spots, drawing out her reactions with precision of someone who’s memorized every curve and sigh.

Yujin slid down slowly, letting her lips trace along Wonyoung’s body, savoring the warmth, the softness, the way Wonyoung reacted to even the lightest touch. When she reached the places she knew elicits the sharpest moans, she didn’t hold back, sucking and pressing with intent, making Wonyoung arch her back and dig her fingers into Yujin’s short hair. Every whispered “Yujin..” was music to her ears, fueling the hunger in her eyes and the drive in her movements.

Wonyoung’s breathing became ragged, words escaping in breathless encouragement.

“I’m close…” she gasped.

And Yujin only smiled against her skin, taking it as permission to go harder, to work her mouth with patience and intensity until Wonyoung trembled, legs shaking, letting out a long quivering sigh that made Yujin’s heart pound.

Even after Wonyoung came, Yujin didn’t pause. She slid her fingers in with the same care, her mouth following, coaxing her again, not wasting a second after the tremors subside. Wonyoung writhes under her, fingers tangling in her hair, gasping and shivering at every flick of Yujin’s lips and brush of her touch.

It was slow and deliberate, it was about savoring every second of them being together, every gasp, every shiver, every whispered name was a desire they’ve created for each other. And Yujin leaned into it, letting herself get lost in the taste, the heat and the intoxicating sound of Wonyoung calling her name again and again.

Yujin finally lifted her head, lips glistening, hand trembling slightly from the intensity of her ministrations. Her chest rises and falls rapidly as she watched Wonyoung, eyes dark and hungry, flushed with desire. She leaned down once more, pressed their foreheads together, sharing a breath before letting Wonyoung shift positions.

It was Wonyoung’s turn. Slowly she straddled Yujin, sinking onto her hips with a confident, teasing grind. Yujin’s hand instinctively settled on Wonyoung’s waist, guiding her, pressing her closer and feeling the soft tension of her body against her.

She leaned down, capturing Yujin’s lips with hungry kiss, fingers tangling in her hair and slowly moved lower. Her mouth trailed down, leaving a path of heated kisses along Yujin’s chest and stomach. She left small, deliberate bites, her favorite thing to do, marking Yujin in a way that was intimate, possessive and full of desires. Every touch, kiss and nibble were measured. Wonyoung remembered everything from their previous encounters, the spots Yujin reacted to the most, the way her breathing changed, the moans that made her shiver. And yet, every time she explored, she discovered something new, another nerve, another sigh and another gasp that caught Yujin off guard and made her body arch instinctively.

Yujin didn’t hold back, her praises, low and sultry, escaped between kisses and gasps.

“God, Wony…just like that…don’t stop…” Her words trembled, and every sound only fueled Wonyoung’s hunger, making her press harder, move more with teasing and exploring.

When Yujin finally shuddered and came, her voice deep, raw and broken with pleasure, Wonyoung let herself linger on the moment, drinking it in, the trembling, the moans, the soft whimpers of her name. And as Yujin recovered, still gasping and shivering, Wonyoung smiled against her skin, moving back up to kiss her, whispering praises and soft, possessive murmurs.

Wonyoung loved it, the praise, the encouragement, the trust. It drove her further, wanting to push Yujin again, discovering just how far she could take her, how deeply she could make her melt. And Yujin, still flushed and breathless, watched her with adoration, hungry anticipation already building for whatever Wonyoung decided to do next.

— — —

Chapter Text

It was around noon when they finally woke up, still tangled beneath the sheets. Wonyoung was the first to move, brushing a hand over Yujin’s bare stomach before pressing a lazy kiss there. Yujin hummed in contentment, pulling her closer and mumbling something about never leaving the bed again.

Eventually, hunger took over. Still wrapped in the sheets and wearing nothing underneath, they ordered room service, an overly large breakfast containing fruit, pancakes, eggs and coffee that Wonyoung insisted she didn’t need but would definitely eat half of.

While waiting, they laid against the headboard, Wonyoung leaning on Yujin’s shoulder, their fingers intertwined. It was quiet, comfortable and full.

Then, gently, Yujin spoke.

“Can I…stay with you?” she asked, “At your apartment. For the rest of the days I’m here before I go back to Paris.”

Wonyoung blinked, surprised only because Yujin asked like she needed permission. She lifted her head and kissed her slowly, smiling against her lips. “You don’t even have to ask. Of course you can.”

Yujin exhaled, relieved and touched in that quiet way she never said out loud. “I just didn’t want to assume.”

“Well,” Wonyoung teased, brushing her thumb along Yujin’s jaw. “assume next time. You’re always welcome with me.”

Room service arrived shortly. They ate on the bed, feeding each other bites in between laughter and lazy kisses. It felt like home, even in a hotel suite.

When they started packing their things to move to Wonyoung’s apartment, Wonyoung paused in the middle of folding a dress. The silence between them shifted, not uncomfortable, just thoughtful.

Yujin noticed instantly. “What’s up babe? Everything okay?” she asked softly, stepping closer.

Wonyoung hesitated only a second before turning to her. “I was just thinking, instead of heading to my place after this, there’s something I want to do. Someone…I want you to meet.” Her tone calm but meaningful.

Yujin listened, attentively.

“I want you to meet my Halmeoni. She raised me after my parents divorced. She’s the most important person in my life. And you’ve let me into your world so openly. I think it’s time I let you into mine properly too.”

Yujin didn’t speak at first, she just looked at her, eyes softening, heart full. Then she cupped Wonyoung’s face and kissed her gently, like she’d just been given something sacred.

“Thank you. I’d be honored to meet her.”

Wonyoung relaxed, relief warm in her chest. “She’s strict sometimes,” she warned playfully. “Don’t be shocked if she scolds you and likes you after.”

Yujin grinned. “As long as she eventually likes me, I’ll accept any scolding. I’ll do my best for her, I promise.”

“And hope she approves?” Wonyoung teased.

Yujin shook her head with a smile, resting her forehead against her girlfriend. “I hope she knows how much I love you. That’s what I care about.”

Wonyoung’s heart melted at that and she kissed Yujin one more time before zipping her suitcase closed.

Because this was the start of something bigger between them and she knew it.

— — —

They packed lightly, just enough for a couple of days and left Seoul after lunch. Yujin drove, one hand on the wheel and the other loosely linked with Wonyoung’s fingers over the younger’s thigh.

About an hour into the drive, Wonyoung glanced out the window, then spoke softly.

“Halmeoni’s been living in Daegu since my Harabeoji passed away. It’s been decades.” She said softly.

Yujin listened without interrupting, her thumb brushing along Wonyoung’s hand.

“She refuses to move to Seoul,” Wonyoung continued with a small sigh. “I’ve asked her to stay with me so many times, but she always says the city is too crowded and too loud for her. She likes the quieter life, her garden, her neighbors, her routine.”

“Does she get help from anyone?” Yujin asked gently.

“She’s stubborn.” she answered with a soft laugh. “But the neighbors check on her sometimes. I visit her twice a month, more often when my schedule lets me. I just…worry.” Her voice softened. “She’s getting older and she still tries to do everything herself. She thinks if she tells me she needs anything I’ll drop everything and rush to her, and honestly, she’s right.”

Yujin squeezed her hand. “You take good care of her.”

“I try. She keeps saying she doesn’t want to be a burden. But she’s never been one. Not once.”

“She must be proud of you.”

Wonyoung smiled faintly. “She always tells me she’s grateful I take care of her. But really, she’s the one who took care of me my whole life. My parents were busy separating then busy with their own lives. Halmeoni was the one who packed my lunches, walked me to school and made sure I had everything I needed.”

There was a pause, comfortable but heavy with meaning.

“That’s why I want you to meet her.” Wonyoung said quietly. “She’s…my real family.”

Yujin glanced at her briefly before turning back to the road. “Thank you for bringing me into that part of your life.”

Wonyoung’s lips curved. “Just don’t let her intimidate you.”

Yujin laughed softly. “I’ve faced billionaires who’ve tried to eat me alive during negotiations. I think I’ll survive one grandmother.” 

“She might scare you more than any of them.” Wonyoung teased.

“Then I’ll make sure she knows I’m hopelessly in love with her granddaughter. That should give me some points.”

Wonyoung didn’t respond right away, but she smiled to herself as the city signs for Daegu started to appear.

With Yujin next to her, the visit didn’t feel as scary or uncertain anymore. It felt right.

They pulled up to a small, well kept house nestled between persimmon trees and an old stone wall. 

Wonyoung exhaled slowly. “She’s probably pretending not to be waiting by the windows.”

Yujin squeezed her hand once before they got out of the car.

Sure enough, the front door opened just as they reached the gate.

“Aigoo, you’re late.” Halmeoni said, though she hadn’t even been given an arrival time. Her eyes immediately landed on Wonyoung, then briefly, sharply, on Yujin.

“Traffic, Halmeoni.” Wonyoung said with a sheepish smile as she slipped into her grandmother’s embrace. The older woman held her tight, patting her back twice before pulling away.

Then came the stare, pointed, assessing, unreadable, directed at Yujin.

Wonyoung cleared her throat. “Halmeoni, this is my girlfriend, An Yujin.”

Yujin bowed respectfully, her posture straight, hands at her sides. “It’s an honor to meet you, Halmeoni.”

Halmeoni didn’t return the bow, just gave a slow nod, eyeing her like she was scanning for defects. “You’re taller than I expected.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Yujin said without missing a beat.

“And your voice is low.” The older woman added.

“So I’ve been told.”

Wonyoung slipped her arm through Yujin’s and tugged her gently inside before her grandmother could fire off another observation.

The house smelled like doenjang jjigae and freshly cooked rice. On the low dining table were banchan dishes laid out: stir-fried anchovies, seasoned spinach, kimchi, braised potatoes and rolled omelet.

“You cooked all this?” Yujin asked politely.

Halmeoni shot her a look. “Did you think it appeared by magic?”

“Halmeoni…” Wonyoung warned under her breath.

The sat down together, Yujin folding her legs under the table respectfully. She waited for both women to lift their chopsticks before she touched hers.

“Eat.” she said finally, as if testing her.

Yujin tried the stew first. “It’s delicious.”

Halmeoni gave no acknowledgment.

“Wony always talks about your cooking.” Yujin added.

Halmeoni said nothing, but Wonyoung saw the slight lift at the corner of her grandmother’s mouth.

Throughout the meal, Halmeoni alternated between ignoring and interrogating Yujin.

“What do your parents do?”

“I handle most of their business ventures.” Yujin answered calmly.

“You look too young to be working.”

“I hear that a lot, but I manage.”

“Hmph.”

Every time Wonyoung reached for something, Yujin shifted her dish closer, or wiped the corner of her lip when sauce smeared there. She filled her water without being asked, laughed quietly when Wonyoung teased her, and listened attentively whenever Halmeoni spoke, even when she was clearly being tested.

After they finished eating, Halmeoni disappeared into the kitchen. Wonyoung started to get up to help, but Yujin touched her arm.

“I’ll go.” she whispered. “You rest.”

Wonyoung hesitated, but let her go.

From the kitchen came the faint clatter of dishes and silence. Then the older woman spoke.

“You didn’t grow up in the countryside. Your hands don’t look like they’ve ever scrubbed a dish.”

Yujin’s voice followed, steady. “Maybe not as often as I should have, but I’ll help anyway.”

Another pause. Then the sound of water running.

Wonyoung stayed at the door, listening.

“You take care of her?” Halmeoni asked quietly, the words softer but guarded.

“With everything I have.” Yujin answered without hesitation.

“And you don’t make her cry?”

“Only when she laughs too hard.”

A sharp scoff came out of the older woman’s mouth, but not a displeased one.

“…She eats well with you.” Halmeoni muttered after a beat. “She looks healthier lately. Less tired.”

“I make sure she sleeps enough and eats before her blood sugar drops to dangerous levels.”

“That girl forgets to feed herself when she’s stressed.”

“I know.”

Silence again, longer this time.

When they returned to the table with tea, Halmeoni didn’t glare anymore. She set a small plate of tteok in front of Yujin.

“Eat more. You’re too thin for someone so tall.” she said.

Wonyoung blinked. That was approval, by her grandmother’s standards.

Yujin offered a grateful smile and bowed slightly. “Thank you Halmeoni.”

Wonyoung caught the way her grandmother watched Yujin now, not with suspicion, but with reluctant acceptance. Maybe even faint appreciation.

And for the first time that day, Wonyoung let herself relax.

— — —

The following morning, Wonyoung woke up first and carefully slipped out of Yujin’s arms, whom still sound asleep, hair slightly messy against the pillow. She pressed a soft kiss to her forehead before tiptoeing out.

The house was quiet until she reached the small kitchen, where Halmeoni was already moving about, tying her floral apron around her waist.

“You’re up early.” Halmeoni said without looking back, though her voice held a smile.

“I wanted to help.” Wonyoung replied, stepping beside her and opening the cupboard for bowls. “You always cook for me, I should do something while I’m here.”

They settled into a comfortable rhythm, Wonyoung chopping vegetables while her grandmother stirred the soup simmering on the stove. For a few minutes, only the sounds of utensils and the faint bubbling of broth filled the air.

Then, Halmeoni broke the silence. “So…that girl. Yujin.” Her tone soft but curious. “You’re serious about her, aren't you?”

Wonyoung didn’t even have to think. “Yes.” She said it so surely that Halmeoni paused, surprised but pleased by the certainty in her voice.

Halmeoni turned off the heat and leaned on the counter, studying her granddaughter’s face. “I can tell. You look different with her. Happier. Softer. Glowing, even.” She chuckled. “I’ve never seen you like this with any of those boys before. Who would’ve thought a woman would be the one to do that?”

Wonyoung’s cheeks blushed with shy amusement, but her smile stayed. “She makes me happy, Halmeoni. Really happy.”

Her grandmother nodded slowly, the teasing fading into something more sincere. “That girl is well-mannered, handsome too. The way she looks at you, like she’d throw herself in front of a speeding car if it meant keeping you safe.” She reached out and touched Wonyoung’s arm. “I like her for you.”

Wonyoung’s heart swelled at the words, but before she could thank her, something else slipped out, quieter, hesitant. “Sometimes…I worry.”

Halmeoni’s brows lifted. “About what?”

Wonyoung hesitated with her hands resting on the cutting board. “We…come from different worlds. She’s an heiress. She has influence, money, power. I’m…just a flight attendant. Middle class, normal. And sometimes I just…wonder if I truly deserve someone like her.”

Halmeoni let out a soft hum and wiped her hands on her apron before stepping closer. “Wonyoung-ah.” Her voice was firm but kind. “When it comes to real love, status doesn’t mean anything. If she loves you and you love her, that is what matters. Your heart is not lesser because hers comes with wealth.”

Wonyoung’s eyes got teary but she blinked it back.

“And listen to me.” Halmeoni continued, cupping her cheek affectionately. “You deserve every bit of the love, care and happiness you’re receiving. Don’t doubt that. If Yujin is the one giving it to you, then I fully support it. I see how she treats you, how she looks at you. That is not pretend.”

Wonyoung didn’t speak, she only nodded and swallowed hard, touched beyond words.

Neither of them realized that Yujin, who had woken up moments earlier to an empty bed, had walked halfway down the hall looking for Wonyoung. She paused when she heard voices from the kitchen and the more she listened, the more she stood still.

She hadn’t meant to eavesdrop. But when she heard Halmeoni’s voice say she approved, when she heard Wonyoung speak so honestly about loving and fearing she wasn’t enough, something in Yujin’s chest tightened and melted all at once. She pressed a hand over her heart, quietly exhaling. The warmth that spread through her was overwhelming. Soft, grateful, steady.

For once, the fear that she might not belong in Wonyoung’s world disappeared. And for the first time, she knew without a doubt that she was wanted, not just by Wonyoung but by the person who mattered most to her.

Yujin waited a little longer in the hallway before stepping into the kitchen, making sure her footsteps were loud enough so it wouldn’t seem like she’d already been standing near the door.

Both Halmeoni and Wonyoung glanced up. Yujin offered a polite bow and sleepy smile. “Good morning.” she greeted softly.

Halmeoni nodded, expression neutral but not cold. “Sit. Breakfast is almost ready.”

Wonyoung took plates to the small dining table while Yujin helped set the side dishes. When everything was placed, Halmeoni unexpectedly used her chopsticks to put pieces of steamed egg and pork belly onto Yujin’s plate. Yujin blinked, surprised then bowed her head gratefully.

“Thank you, Halmeoni.”

They ate together, and though the older woman wasn’t overly talkative, she listened closely when Yujin and Wonyoung told the story of how they met, starting from the flight, the delayed layover and their 24 hours in Paris together.

Halmeoni raised a brow. “So you noticed my Wonyoungie first?”

Yujin didn’t hesitate. “I did.” she smiled, smiling at Wonyoung. “Her beauty caught my attention immediately…but after I got to know her, I realized she was worth chasing, worth flying across the world for. I wasn’t going to let the distance stop me.”

Wonyoung’s cheeks warmed, nudging her under the table, but Halmeoni only hid a smile as she placed kimchi onto Yujin’s bowl again, quiet approval in small gestures.

Two days went by faster and not long after, they began gathering their things. Wonyoung went to her old bedroom to make sure she didn’t leave anything behind.

As soon as she was out of sight, the older woman cleared her throat and gestured subtly for Yujin to step aside near the living room.

Yujin followed respectfully.

Halmeoni looked at her quietly for a moment before speaking, her voice softer than before. “Thank you.” she said.

Yujin blinked, unsure. “For what, Halmeoni?”

“For loving her. For taking care of my granddaughter.”

Yujin straightened, suddenly serious.

Halmeoni’s gaze softened with a hint of sadness. “Wonyoung…she didn’t grow up with much love from her parents. After they separated, most of what she received came from me and her Harabeoji.” She paused. “I worried she might not learn to love someone deeply. Or she’d choose someone who wouldn’t love her enough.”

Yujin swallowed. “I understand.”

“I can see you’re different.” Halmeoni continued gently. “I see the way you look at her. The way she looks at you. That’s enough to ease a grandmother’s heart.”

There was a brief silence, then she added. “She’s stubborn sometimes. She holds her fears inside. She won’t always say what’s bothering her. If she becomes difficult…don’t give up on her.”

Yujin nodded without hesitation. “I won’t”

Halmeoni searched her expression. “Promise me.”

“I promise.” Yujin said, voice steady. “I’ll do everything to keep her happy. I’ll stay with her through good and bad. I won’t leave, ever.” She’s the one for me. And if I have to rearrange my life to be with her, I will. Gladly.”

The older woman’s lips parted slightly as though the sincerity caught her off guard. Then her expression softened fully for the first time. She reached up and gently patted Yujin’s cheek with one wrinkled hand.

“Good girl.” she murmured, eyes warm. “Thank you, Yujin-ah.”

Yujin bowed her head slightly, feeling the weight and warmth of approval she hadn’t expected to receive so soon.

A moment later, Wonyoung stepped out of her room, unaware of the conversation she’d just missed. She smiled at the sight of her grandmother and girlfriend standing together.

“Are you two talking about me?” she teased lightly.

Halmeoni just scoffed and waved toward the door. “Go on. Drive safe. And visit again soon, both of you.”

Yujin and Wonyoung slipped on their coats and shoes before stepping outside. As they walked to the car, Yujin’s hand naturally found Wonyoung’s. And this time, the warmth in her grip carried even more meaning than before.

— — —

They were already halfway back to Seoul when Wonyoung finally asked.

Her eyes fixed on the passing fields outside the window, but her voice was casual. “What were you and Halmeoni talking about earlier? When I was in my room.”

Yujin glanced at her briefly then returned her eyes on the road, a soft smile tugging at her lips. She didn’t answer right away, just reached over with her free hand, easily finding Wonyoung’s. Their fingers laced together on instinct, and Yujin lifted their joined hands, pressing a light kiss to the back of Wonyoung’s.

“Nothing bad. She just loves you a lot…and wanted to make sure I felt the same way.”

Wonyoung turned to look at her, eyes narrowing just a bit, almost shy, almost defensive. “And do you?”

Yujin gave her a look like she couldn’t believe she even asked. “With every single bone in my body.” she answered without hesitation. “Your Halmeoni didn’t need convincing, she already sees how much I love you.”

Wonyoung looked down at their hands, thumb brushing over Yujin’s knuckles, quiet for a moment.

Yujin continued, “Also, I honestly can’t remember the last time I had a home-cooked meal like that. I think I ate more breakfast today than I have in a month.”

Wonyoung grinned. “That’s rich coming from someone who can afford all the delicious food in the world.”

Yujin laughed, eyes crinkling. “True. But none of that compares to how full I feel when I eat somewhere like that, with you sitting across from me.”

Wonyoung raised a brow, teasing. “So it’s not the food. It’s me?”

“It’s us.” Yujin corrected gently. “Wherever you are…that’s where I feel home. Even if it’s just sitting at your grandmother’s small table with steamed egg and banchan.”

That made Wonyoung’s teasing fade into something more tender. She squeezed Yujin’s hand, gaze lingering on her profile before look back out the window again, this time with a smile she didn’t try to hide.

And Yujin, still driving with one hand and holding on to Wonyoung with the other, looked just as content.

—END—

Chapter Text

Paris was grey and cold when Yujin returned, but their rhythm stayed the same.

Morning voice notes when Wonyoung finished her flights. Short check-ins between schedules. Random photos of food, sunrises from the plane, Yujin’s office view, Wonyoung’s hotel bedhead selfies, and the familiar “miss you” typed in between.

Wonyoung was on long-haul rotation to Spain this time—Barcelona, then Madrid in two days.

They’d scheduled video calls like always. Except… for the past two, Yujin’s camera stayed off.

At first, Wonyoung didn’t question it. She trusted Yujin. Believed her when she said, “My phone’s camera’s glitching recently. It turns black when I use video.”

But then…

Yujin still sent photos as usual. Clear, high-quality ones. A side face selfie from the back of a town car. A mirror shot from her walk-in closet. Her lunch in between meetings.

If the camera was broken, how was it working just fine for those?

Wonyoung brushed it off, once.

The second time, it bothered her.

By the third scheduled call, she was done pretending nothing was off.

She was sitting in her hotel bed in Madrid, hair up, comfy pajama shirt, camera on like always.

Yujin answered. Her square stayed black.

“Still glitching?” Wonyoung asked gently, trying not to sound accusing.

Yujin chuckled, a little stiff. “Yeah. I tried to fix it earlier but it kept freezing up.”

There was a short pause.

Wonyoung finally exhaled. “You’re a billionaire, Yujin. If your phone’s broken, replace it. You swapped your iPad for a newer one because the charging port felt ‘loose.’ Now suddenly you’re fine with a black screen?”

Silence.

“Yujin,” Wonyoung said calmly, “what’s wrong?”

Another beat.

When Yujin spoke, her voice was lower. “It’s nothing serious.”

“That’s not what I asked.”

A longer silence this time. Then..

“…Give me a second.”

The screen flickered. For a moment, it was still black.

Then the camera came on.

Wonyoung’s eyes widened.

There was a faint, healing bruise along Yujin’s cheekbone, and a small, angry-looking cut at the side of her lip, mostly closed now but scabbed.

“Yujin,” she said immediately, voice sharp with worry. “What…what happened to your face?”

“It’s not a big deal,” Yujin said quickly.

Wonyoung just stared at her.

Yujin tried to hold the look.

She lost.

She sighed. “Okay. Sorry. I didn’t want you to worry.”

“Too late,” Wonyoung said, quieter now. “So talk.”

Yujin leaned back in her chair, jaw working. “It happened last week. I was in Singapore for some business meetings. The after-hours drinks thing, you know how those go.”

Wonyoung nodded slowly, waiting.

“You remember that cocky heir from the fundraising gala?” Yujin asked, mouth twisting. “The one with the ugly tie who tried to flirt with anything breathing?”

“The one who got mad I outbid him for the Italy getaway auction?” Wonyoung said dryly.

“That one.”

Yujin’s jaw clenched. “He was there. Didn’t see me at first. He was at a table with some other heirs, drinking and talking. I was nearby with another partner and could hear everything.”

Wonyoung stayed quiet.

Yujin went on. “He was bragging about the gala, saying he ‘let’ you win because he knew I was paying anyway. And then… he called you a gold digger.”

Wonyoung’s face darkened.

Yujin’s voice grew colder. “He kept talking. About how ‘girls like you’ look for rich targets to latch onto. Then he…” 

She paused, visibly forcing herself to stay calm. “He started describing you. Your body. Crude. Laughing with his friends like you’re some entertainment.”

Wonyoung sat up straighter, eyes narrowing. “And then?”

“I confronted him,” Yujin said simply.

Wonyoung blinked. “Verbally or…”

“I punched him in the face.”

Wonyoung’s lips parted in disbelief. “You what?!”

“He got in a hit…” Yujin touched her cheek briefly. “Then security got involved before it got worse. The board handled it quietly since he threw the first punch.”

“And your face?” Wonyoung asked, voice softening despite the tension.

“He wore a ring,” Yujin muttered, glancing at her lip. “Clipped me when he swung back.”

Wonyoung exhaled, stunned. “Yujin… You shouldn’t be punching people for me.”

Yujin’s brows instantly furrowed, eyes flashing. 

“What was I supposed to do? Stand there and let some arrogant, misogynistic bastard talk about you like that in front of his equally trash friends?”

“Defending me doesn’t mean…”

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” Yujin cut in sarcastically, her voice rising a bit, “for defending you when some arrogant son of a bitch was running his mouth about my girlfriend like she was a collectible.”

“Yujin.” Wonyoung’s tone sharpened. “That’s not…”

“So next time,” Yujin said, frustration bubbling, “what do you want me to do? Shake his hand? Compliment his vocabulary?”

Wonyoung stared at her, irritation now mixing with concern. “We’ll talk about this some other time.”

She ended the call before Yujin could answer.

The screen went black.

Yujin sat there, breathing hard, adrenaline still lingering, guilt creeping in.

Miles away, Wonyoung stared at her own reflection in the empty screen, heart pounding for many different reasons.

They weren’t done with this.

Not even close.

— — — 

Two days passed.

They weren’t ignoring each other, at least not completely. The updates still came, but they were cold, trimmed down, and missing the softness they both craved.

Yujin:

Landed in London. Meetings until 4.

Wonyoung:

Boarding Madrid to Barcelona. Will text when I land.

Wonyoung:

Ate already?

Yujin:

Yeah. You?

Short. Dry. Polite. Everything they weren’t.

Neither of them said goodnight. Neither of them said “I miss you.” But both of them hovered over the call button at least once a day.

Yujin would unlock her phone, Wonyoung’s name right at the top of her recents. Her thumb would hover over the video icon, heart clenching. Then she’d drop the phone on the bed and tell herself, I didn’t do anything wrong.

Wonyoung, in her Madrid hotel room, paced in a robe, staring at her screen. She typed out, Can we talk? then deleted it. Typed I miss you then erased it. She lay in bed, scrolling through old photos of them, silently furious at herself for wanting to cry.

Neither slept well. Neither admitted it. Stubbornness coming from both of them.

But on the second night, after landing in Madrid and finishing her shift, Wonyoung finally stopped pretending she was fine.

She booked a standby business class flight to Paris for that night. She didn’t even overthink it. She messaged Rei and asked for the penthouse address and clearance.

Rei:

You’re insane. But go. I’ll tell security to expect you. Don’t kill each other.

It was past midnight when the private car dropped Wonyoung off in front of Yujin’s building. Her heart was racing so fast she felt stupid for not calming down.

She expected to wait, maybe ring multiple times.

She knocked once.

The door swung open in under five seconds.

Yujin stood there barefoot, hair messy, in sweatpants and a fitted white shirt. Her eyes were wide, disbelief, relief, exhaustion all at once.

For a moment, neither spoke.

Then Yujin grabbed Wonyoung’s wrist and pulled her inside, shutting the door behind them.

She didn’t say hi. She didn’t ask why. She just pulled Wonyoung into her arms and held her tight and desperate.

“I’m sorry,” Yujin murmured into her hair. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry.”

Wonyoung’s arms wrapped around her waist, fingers clutching the back of her shirt. “I’m not here so you can apologize a hundred times.”

“I’m still going to,” Yujin breathed, pulling back just enough to look at her.

They ended up on the couch, not touching at first, both still cautious.

Yujin spoke quietly. “I know punching him wasn’t the smartest thing I’ve ever done. But I’m not sorry for standing up for you.”

“I know,” Wonyoung said, voice gentle. “And I’m not upset you defended me. I’m upset that you put yourself in a situation where someone could hurt you.”

“I’m not made of glass.”

“I don’t care,” Wonyoung shot back softly. “I don’t want you bleeding because of me.”

Yujin’s shoulders eased, some tension melting. “I’ll try not to get physical again. I really will.” Then, her lips twitched faintly. “But I’m still fully prepared to go to war for your honor. Just so you know.”

Wonyoung huffed out a laugh despite herself. “Of course you are.”

Silence settled, warm this time.

Wonyoung leaned in, intending to kiss her but stopped an inch away when her gaze dropped to the healing cut at the corner of Yujin’s lip.

She lifted a hand and lightly traced the mark with her thumb. “Does it still hurt?”

“Only when I smile, which I barely do these past couple of days” Yujin murmured, eyes softening.

“Let me take care of it later. I brought ointment in my bag.”

Before Wonyoung could add anything else, Yujin tilted forward and kissed her hard, like she’d been starving for days.

Wonyoung melted into it instantly, fingers curling into Yujin’s shirt. The small sting on Yujin’s lip didn’t stop her, it grounded her, reminded her that Wonyoung was actually here, in front of her, not a screen.

When they finally pulled apart, slightly breathless, Yujin rested her forehead against Wonyoung’s.

“You really flew across countries to fight with me in person?” she whispered.

“No,” Wonyoung murmured. “I flew across countries so you’d stop kissing me through terrible reception and bad lighting.”

Yujin smiled and this time, the sting was worth it.

Later, they ended up in Yujin’s bedroom. Wonyoung had changed into one of Yujin’s oversized shirts and a pair of her jogger shorts, sleeves covering her hands and waistband sitting low on her hips.

Yujin lay on her back while Wonyoung curled into her side, head on her shoulder, one leg slotted between Yujin’s. Yujin’s arm rested across her waist, fingertips tracing lazy circles on the small of her back.

They stayed quiet for a moment, breathing in sync, like their bodies were remembering something their pride had temporarily messed up.

It was Wonyoung who spoke first, voice low. “The past two days were horrible.”

Yujin huffed a quiet laugh through her nose. “Yeah. I don’t recommend it.”

“I hated how short our messages were,” Wonyoung admitted, fingers toying with the hem of Yujin’s shirt. “I kept typing things and deleting them.”

“Same,” Yujin said. “Every time I got one of your dry ‘okay’ texts, I wanted to throw my phone.”

Wonyoung gave a soft scoff. “You sent worse ones.”

“I was trying to win the silent suffering competition.”

“Well, you tied with me.”

Yujin turned her head to look at her. “You texted Rei.”

“I did,” Wonyoung confessed. “I told her I was flying here so we could talk properly, and to not let your security throw me out.”

Yujin smirked. “I should’ve pretended to still be upset. We could’ve had dramatic make up sex.”

Wonyoung raised a brow. “Is that what you really want?”

Yujin tightened her arm around her, pulling her impossibly closer. “Yes to the sex,” she said honestly. “But no to the fighting. I hate it. I hate the idea of hurting you or making you feel alone.”

Wonyoung’s expression softened. “I don’t like it either. Those dry texts were killing me.”

“I know.” Yujin kissed the top of her head. “Thank you for coming all the way here. You only have, what, less than a day before you go back to Madrid?”

“Twenty hours,” Wonyoung murmured. “Well… nineteen now.”

“I’ll take all nineteen.”

“You better,” Wonyoung said, snuggling closer until she was practically lying on top of her. “I’m not flying back without overdosing on you first.”

Yujin chuckled quietly, hand sliding into Wonyoung’s hair. “Deal.”

They didn’t rush into anything sexual. Instead, they lay there in the warmth of the sheets, touching without urgency, legs tangled, hands roaming lazily, noses brushing, soft kisses in between breaths.

They talked in whispers—about the hotel in Madrid, about Yujin’s upcoming investor meeting in Milan, about the meals they’d eaten in the past two days, about nothing and everything.

Every so often, Yujin would press a long kiss to Wonyoung’s temple or jaw, lingering like she needed the contact to convince herself this was real.

Wonyoung would lift her head to look at her, eyes soft, fingers tracing the faint bruise on Yujin’s cheekbone that was barely visible now.

“I still don’t like that you punched someone because of me,” she whispered.

“And I still don’t like someone calling you things you’re not,” Yujin whispered back.

Wonyoung sighed, but she didn’t argue further. She just rested her head over Yujin’s heart and let the sound of her breathing steady her.

Minutes blurred into an hour, and later, with the blanket pulled up over them, Yujin kissed her slow, no rush, no hunger, just soft, deliberate affection.

Wonyoung melted into it, her hand resting on Yujin’s waist, thumb brushing skin under the hem of her shirt.

They didn’t need to say it aloud, but both of them felt it deeply: the relief of being back where they belonged, pressed against each other, tired but warm, stubborn but in love.

When Yujin shifted, her lips trailed down from Wonyoung’s jaw to the curve of her throat. Her breathing deepened, warm and steady against her skin. And then, without even trying, Yujin’s mouth landed on the spot.

Wonyoung’s collarbone.

The exact place that always unraveled her.

Her soft inhale hitched into a quiet, shaky sound—one that was half sigh, half moan. Yujin heard it instantly, lips pausing for a beat before she pressed another kiss there, slower this time, deliberately grazing the sensitive bone with the edge of her mouth.

Wonyoung’s fingers curled into the sheets.

Yujin kept her lips there as she spoke, voice low and gentle, almost amused by the reaction she’d triggered. “Are you tired?” she murmured against her skin. “If you’re sleepy, I’ll stop. I’ll just kiss you like this until we fall asleep.”

Wonyoung’s eyes fluttered shut as a small laugh escaped her, breathy, weak from how warm she suddenly felt. “Yes,” she answered honestly. Then, after a second, “But no… if you keep touching me like that.”

That was all Yujin needed to hear.

She smiled against Wonyoung’s skin, trailing her lips from her collarbone to the base of her neck in slowly. “Then I won’t stop,” she whispered. “I’ll do all the work. You just lie here and be your beautiful, sexy self.”

Wonyoung let out a soft scoff, cheeks warm, amused and flustered all at once. “You’re something else.”

“And yours,” Yujin said simply, lifting her head just enough to look at her. “So let me.”

She didn’t rush. She brought her mouth back down to Wonyoung’s shoulder, kissing gently, tracing the skin there slowly. One hand slid under the oversized shirt she was wearing—Yujin’s shirt—fingers spreading across her waist like she was made of something fine and delicate.

Wonyoung relaxed beneath her, muscles relaxing, breath growing uneven in the nicest way. She tilted her head slightly to give Yujin more access, trusting her completely.

Yujin’s touch stayed soft, unhurried but intentional, like she was savoring every inch she reacquainted herself with.

And Wonyoung let her, eyes half-closed, body warm, heart beating steady in the quiet of Yujin’s room, because there was nowhere else in the world she’d rather be than right here, being gently loved back to life by the woman she flew across countries for.

— — — 

Morning came when Wonyoung finally stirred. She blinked, disoriented for a moment, until the weight and warmth of the arm draped over her waist reminded her exactly where she was.

Yujin’s face was tucked into her shoulder, breathing steady, her hair slightly messy and her lips parted in sleep. Wonyoung watched her for a few seconds, smiling to herself before gently turning in her arms.

“I’m gonna shower before breakfast,” she whispered, brushing her fingers along Yujin’s jaw.

Yujin only hummed, eyes still closed, and loosened her hold enough for Wonyoung to slip out of bed. She grabbed the sheet she’d wrapped herself in earlier and headed into the massive bathroom.

But the second she dropped the fabric and caught sight of herself in the full-length mirror, she froze.

A gasp escaped before she could stop it.

Her entire body had scattered bruises, fresh, deep, and impossible to miss. Along her collarbone. The top of her chest. Her waist. The sides of her thighs. Her hips. Some faint, some darker, all undeniably from Yujin.

Her mouth fell open, torn between shock and… something far from displeasure.

Before she could even call out, she felt a familiar presence behind her, warm, solid, slow steps walked across the tiles.

Yujin met her eyes in the mirror as she came to stand behind her, still wearing nothing but sleep and confidence. Her hands slid to Wonyoung’s waist like she owned the right to touch her. That smug, quiet, dangerous little smirk appeared as her gaze traveled over every mark.

“You’re welcome,” she said under her breath, sounding far too satisfied. “It’s art.”

Wonyoung gave her a look in the reflection, half scandalized, half undeniably turned on. 

“Art?” she repeated.

Yujin dipped her head until her lips hovered at Wonyoung’s shoulder, eyes still locked to hers in the mirror. “Masterpiece, actually.”

Wonyoung hated how much that comment made heat curl in her stomach, but she didn’t bother lying to herself. Especially not with the way Yujin was looking at her, like she’d done this on purpose and would do it again without hesitation.

Their eyes stayed locked in the glass.

Something from last night still hung thick between them, the ache of missing each other, the relief of making up, the high that hadn’t quite faded.

Without a word, Wonyoung reached behind her. Her fingers found Yujin’s right hand, guiding it with quiet intention. She brought it down across her stomach, lower, her breathing already heavier than before.

Yujin stilled for all of half a second, then let Wonyoung place her exactly where she wanted her. Her free arm slid around Wonyoung’s waist, pulling her back into her body, holding her securely against her own bare skin.

The mirror reflected everything, the marks, their faces, the need staring back.

Yujin’s voice dropped, raspy and low against Wonyoung’s ear as she touched her down there, soaking. “Already?”

Wonyoung didn’t answer verbally, she didn’t need to. Her body did it for her.

Yujin’s breath hitched, a quiet, “Fuck,” exhaled more than spoken, her lips brushing the shell of Wonyoung’s ear as she realized just how wet Wonyoung already was for her.

Their reflections never broke eye contact.

Wonyoung’s left hand slid up into Yujin’s hair, fisting gently, steadying herself as Yujin did exactly what she wordlessly asked for.

Only when the pleasure overwhelmed her did Wonyoung finally let her eyes flutter shut, her fingers tightening in Yujin’s hair as the sound she’d been holding back escaped her in a quiet, breathy release.

And through it all, Yujin held her firmly in place, proud, possessive, and entirely hers.

Steam had barely begun to fog the glass when Wonyoung turned from the mirror and caught Yujin’s wrist.

“Shower with me,” she said simply.

Yujin didn’t need convincing. She let herself be pulled into the shower, the warm spray splashing over both of them as the door closed behind them. Before Yujin could make a teasing comment, Wonyoung pressed her palms to the heiress’s stomach and slowly dragged them upward, water dripping and rolling down defined lines of muscle.

She took her time tracing every familiar ridge of Yujin’s abs, like she was reacquainting herself with a favorite map. Yujin’s breath hitched the moment Wonyoung’s hands smoothed up to her chest, then down along her sides.

“Your body…” Wonyoung murmured, eyes sweeping shamelessly over her. “How are you built like this?”

Yujin’s smirk was faint, pleased. “Genetics and expensive gyms?”

Wonyoung didn’t bother hiding the way her gaze dropped to Yujin’s arms. She wrapped both hands around one bicep and gave it a gentle squeeze, eyes glittering. “These should be registered as weapons,” she said, half teasing, half worshipping. “No wonder you can carry me like I weigh nothing.”

Yujin chuckled under her breath, but the sound disappeared quickly when Wonyoung leaned in, mouth brushing her jaw as her hands slid lower with unhurried purpose. The change in Yujin’s breathing came fast, anticipation, pleasure, surrender all crashing into one.

Wonyoung stayed close, lips ghosting along Yujin’s neck while her movements produced sounds from her that were low and unrestrained. Every praise, every groan of Wonyoung’s name hit like a spark. Yujin braced a hand against the tile, head tipping back as the water ran over her and Wonyoung worked her toward the edge with so much focus.

When Yujin finally came undone, breath heavy and uneven, a barely-muted curse left her lips, followed by a soft, incredulous laugh. She pulled Wonyoung in and kissed her hard, lingering, grateful and dizzy all at once.

“Shower sex,” she muttered against Wonyoung’s mouth, still catching her breath, “officially checked.”

Wonyoung smiled against her lips. “You’re welcome.”

They stayed under the water a moment longer, letting the heat and closeness ground them before Wonyoung reached for the body wash.

“Turn around,” she said, and Yujin obeyed with no protest.

They took turns washing each other, slow hands, gentle touches, kisses whenever one of them leaned close enough. Yujin hummed contentedly as Wonyoung washed her shoulders and back, then returned the favor by carefully rinsing shampoo from Wonyoung’s hair, fingers massaging her scalp until she practically melted where she stood.

But the moment Wonyoung shivered, she pouted. “We have to hurry. I’m getting cold.”

“Can’t have that,” Yujin murmured.

The water shut off, and before Wonyoung could reach for a towel herself, Yujin was already wrapping her in the biggest, softest one hanging nearby. She bundled her up snugly, pressing a lingering kiss to the top of her damp head.

Then, without warning, Yujin bent down and swept her up in her arms bridal-style.

Wonyoung let out a surprised laugh, hands instinctively looping around Yujin’s neck. “You’re showing off.”

“Obviously,” Yujin said, utterly unashamed. “You were just praising my arms. I’m keeping the momentum going.”

She carried her out of the bathroom with ease, steps confident as though Wonyoung weighed less than a pillow. The towel trailed slightly, Wonyoung warm against her chest as she headed back into the bedroom.

“Breakfast, then clothes?” Yujin asked, raising a brow.

“Clothes, then breakfast,” Wonyoung corrected, still smiling. “Or you’ll get distracted again.”

“No promises,” Yujin said, setting her gently on the bed—still wrapped up like something she intended to keep.

— — —