Makayla POV

Honey glazed bacon was sizzling, buttermilk batter bubbling on Danny's cast-iron skillet as this morning's coffee dripped and complimented the savory aroma of today's breakfast.

"You're supposed to hold me down, but you're holding me back." Danny and I belted. "And that's the sound, of me not calling you back."

As Lizzo's Truth Hurts played through the apartment speakers we sang, danced, and cooked to the legendary single.

This was my first morning in South Korea and the amazing vibes we experienced in Thailand carried into Seoul, seamlessly.

I was so proud of my cousin and the life her and Min-seok had already built together. Obviously I knew Danny was well off, but I was still shocked to see how luxurious her penthouse was.

It was bright, open, and spacious - Its ceiling high and floors covered with smooth marble tiles.

The sophisticated apartment had technological sensors for ideal temperature and lighting, chic motorized shades and blinds, and a top-of-the-line entertainment system.

Danny and Min-seok essentially controlled the entire smart home with their phones and the sleek kitchen we were cooking in had the latest appliances as well, all of which were platinum.

The contemporary living area across from us was decorated with custom furniture, a black u-shaped couch placed in its center. Surrounding artwork, figures, and modern living room tables accented it well and the walls behind the couch were lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and a door that led to a private terrace that had a breathtaking cityscape view of Seoul.

This tasteful decor spread throughout the entire home, to include the guest room I shared with Ho-seok last night.

"Bom-bom-bi-dom, bi-dum-bum-bay!" Danny chimed into the spatula she was using as a mic.

I laughed while she performed for me, but soon I smelled something burning. "The pancakes!"

"Oh shoot!" She gasped. I followed closely behind her and decided to do a progress check on the lone dish she was responsible for preparing, this morning. "They didn't burn too bad..."

My attention shifted to the "cooked" stack she had placed to the side and my instincts told me to check the center of the top flapjack.

"How do you burn and undercook pancakes, Danny?" She bit her lip, her shoulders falling.

"I made extra batter in case I messed the first few up."

I brought my hand to the top of her head, smiling at the awful cook. "We'll try again tomorrow. Go set the table while I finish making breakfast, okay?"

She nodded, nearly skipping as she executed my recommendation.

I was on cloud nine as Danny and I basked in this moment. It had been years since we shared a morning like this together, but such a memory had been elevated now that we were reliving it in her vary own home.

As the playlist continued, another hit from Lizzo spilled through the speakers when we heard the front door open.

"Uh oh, is it that kind of day?" Min-seok teased, hearing Rumors. "It's not even 10:00 am. Who upset my wife, first thing in the morning?"

I glanced over my shoulder to find our two handsome men walking towards us. Their glistening faces were red after returning from an outdoor run and their damp mahogany hair was even disheveled, but damn did they look good.

Butterflies filled my stomach feeling Ho-seok's presence hover over me and I felt that rush of warmth spread across my body when he wrapped his arms around my waist.

"Good morning." He tenderly greeted me. I giggled feeling his sweaty nose glide across my cheek as he pecked it. "Did you sleep well?"

I nodded. "You could have woken me up before you left to work out, though."

"Min-seok and I both agreed, you and Danny could use some alone time this morning. You didn't get much of it while we were in Thailand, and she was looking most forward to each morning here with you. I heard you two used to have sleepovers all the time?"

"Yeah, almost weekly when we were kids and pretty frequent as teenagers." I reminisced. "It's so unbelievable. She used to talk about achieving a future like this every morning we woke up beside each other. I don't think she knew she'd hit it this big and outside of America, but she did exactly what she said she would do and it's cool to see it."

I glanced at the newlyweds and continued to admire my cousin's life. Min-seok was already kneeled in front of Danny, talking to her little baby bump as he caressed and kissed it.

"That'll be us one day." Ho-seok privately assured me. "It might not happen as quickly, but it will happen. I promise."

After I removed the latest batch of pancakes from the skillet, I turned around in his arms and cupped his flushed cheek.

"You know I believe you, but so we're clear I don't need an extravagant life like this. As long as we're together and you're by my side, I'll be happy Ho-seok."

His lips curled into a smile, he pressed them against mine for one sweet and salty kiss.

"Hyung, do you need to borrow a pair of clothes for the day?" Min-seok offered.

"I actually washed your underwear and all of the basics you packed for the trip this morning. I put your delicates in a steam closet too, per Danny's guidance." I informed Ho-seok. "Everything should be clean. I just didn't get to folding and moving everything back into your luggage."

"I was hoping you slept in, but you've been busy this morning."

I shrugged. "Its easy to be productive when you feel as good as I do, right now."

Our smiles bright, we were tranced by each others' presence when Danny and Min-seok's high-end coffee machine notified us the latest pot of caffeine was ready.

"You two should go shower, and make is snappy!" Danny said. "Breakfast is almost ready and I'll be done setting the table soon."

"Oh before you two go, how do you want your eggs this morning?" I asked.

"Fried, please." Ho-seok and Min-seok requested.

"And Danny, you want scrambled like me I presume?"

Grinning from ear to ear, Danny nodded and Ho-seok stole a quick smooch from me before he followed Min-seok down the hall.

I went back to preparing the pancakes and finished making the eggs within another 20 minutes or so.

While I placed the food on the table, Danny laid out the various beverage options amongst the impressive spread and it wasn't much longer until we were joined by our freshly washed men.

"This looks amazing!" Min-seok praised, rubbing his hands together as we all got seated.

"Kayla makes the best pancakes!" Danny gushed, her eyes glossed over as she looked at the stack of flapjacks. "They're sweet and fluffy! I'm salivating just thinking about the first bite!"

"Woah there tiger." Min-seok teased. "What have we learned these past few weeks?"

"Eat slowly, to eat a lot." The couple recited.

"What's that about?" Ho-seok chuckled.

"Danny's morning sickness has improved a lot since the doctor pretty much told her to slow the hell down when she eats." Min-seok replied.

"I can't help it!" Danny defended. "I'm eating for three and sometimes I get so hungry or crave something so much, I lose a bit of control..."

"That's putting it nicely." Min-seok added. "I kid you not, there have been a few times we are eating together - I look down for one bite and she's scarfed down half a plate in seconds."

"Oh whatever!" Danny huffed. "You carry around the babies and see how your body handles it! I bet you wouldn't make it a day. You can barely handle a common cold!"

"Okay, okay, okay. I'm sorry." Min-seok chortled. "Oppa pushed you a little too far. I'm sorry."

Danny playfully flipped hair over her shoulder before Min-seok grabbed her hand and offered me his other across the table.

"Shall we do grace?" He asked, his gaze directed at Ho-seok. "You'll want to get used to this, hyung. Makayla and Danny's family are big on religion."

Ho-seok nodded, grabbing my hand as well as Danny's.

"You want to lead the prayer?" I teased Ho-seok. His eyes widened in panic. "I'm kidding. The man of the house is responsible for that where we come from."

Min-seok beamed, happy to fulfill his role. "Let us bow our heads in prayer."

We did as Min-seok requested, closing our eyes as he blessed the food.

"Dear lord, thank you for nourishing our bodies with this meal. I pray you continue to bless our growing family with health and everlasting love. Thank you for keeping us safe in Thailand and for allowing us to return back to Korea unharmed as well. I ask you continue to watch over and protect us, as it is your will that guides us. In Jesus' name, let us say Amen."

"Amen." We concluded, though I couldn't help but look at Min-seok in amazement.

"Sheesh!" I exclaimed. "Where did you learn how to pray like that? Do Christians get down like that in Korea too?"

He smiled a proud one, his wife loading her plate with pancakes. "Pops taught me all I know."

"Pops?" I gaped. Min-seok had the whole table cracking up. "Wow, Uncle Rod is training you well! No wonder you fit in with the family so seamlessly."

"Don't give my dad too much credit. You can't teach this kind of swag." Danny bragged. "With how Min-seok balls and carries himself, I just know he was a black man in his past life."

Ho-seok scoffed. "Then you were definitely a Korean woman in yours."

"Facts!" I agreed, bumping fists with him.

"Guess you two weren't the only couple destined for each other then, huh?" Min-seok winked, each of us munching on our full plates of food. "So did you ladies decide on what you want to do, today?"

"No, we didn't." Danny sighed. "There's so much I want Kayla to see while she's here, though!"

"I can already see you're stressing out." Min-seok chuckled. "We have the entire week, Jagiya. We don't have to check all the boxes on the first day."

"But three of the days Kayla's in Korea, we're all going to be in Jeju Island with your family. This week is going to fly by, and there is so much for her to experience in Seoul!"

"Well what are you interested in seeing?" Ho-seok asked me.

I shrugged as I took a sip of my coffee. "I'm pretty open to anything. I just hope by time we go back to Boston, I can actually put faces and places to the stories and things you tell me."

Danny gasped. "That's it! We should take a stroll down memory lane with her!"

"Memory lane?" Min-seok questioned.

"We should give her a tour of SNU! We can go to our favorite cafe just off the campus for lunch too, and we can even have dinner at Joh-eun Eumsig with the gang! We're all planning to show face for your friend's birthday party at that lounge later anyways. We might as well turn dinner into the pre-game too! What do you guys think?"

"I'm down." Min-seok agreed. "What about you two?"

I nodded, looking to Ho-seok for his approval.

"On one condition." He flirted. "We fit a shopping spree in the itinerary, today."

"Shopping spree?" I asked, a charming grin spread across his face.

"Spoiling you - This is what I wanted to do more than anything else while we were here." He stated. "Let me do this for you, while I still can. Yeah?"

Though I was nervous to learn just how far he could go with "spoiling" me, I silently agreed to the condition seeing the determination in his gaze.

"Today is going to be so much fun!" Danny exclaimed. "Eat up, cuz! Shopping with these two in Korea, is a very different experience. You'll need all the energy you can get!"

My eyebrows furrowed, I watched Min-seok and Ho-seok exchange mischievous glances while the group continued on with a very relaxing and conversational meal.

Since Danny and I took the lead in making breakfast, the boys cleaned up while we showered and got dressed for the day.

I threw on a pair of acid wash boyfriend jeans and a black crop top, layered with an oversized tan cardigan. I was torn however when it came to choosing the shoes for the look.

I wanted to put on my classic white chucks but my gut was telling me I might look underdressed next to everyone else.

"Ready?" Danny chimed, knocking on the doorframe.

When she stepped inside my room, my shoulders fell seeing my instincts were correct.

Danny was slaying a light brown cashmere dress with it's matching long cardigan. With how rich the material was, I knew it was luxury brand and when I looked closely I peeped the gold necklace and earrings she was wearing were Chanel.

"You okay?" She checked.

"Yeah, I'm good." I hesitated, grabbing a black pair of high heeled booties.

"You sure you don't want to go with your chucks?" Danny asked. "We're going to be doing a lot of walking. I'm going to wear my white sneakers, today."

I nibbled on my bottom lip. "You sure I won't look out of place next to you guys?"

Danny showed me a reassuring smile, placing her hand on my shoulder. "You really have no idea who you're dating still, huh?"

"What does that even mean?"

"You'll find that out for yourself, very soon." She giggled. "The boys are waiting. Join us outside when you're ready."

As Danny left me to finish getting dressed, I decided to take her advice.

I slipped on my chucks and grabbed my black cross body purse from Kate Spade before I joined the group in the living area.

Despite being dressed down, Ho-seok somehow looked richer now that we were in Korea. Maybe it was because he was standing next to Min-seok?

He was wearing a black denim jacket over a white Balenciaga t-shirt that was tucked into a slim pair of black distressed jeans, his high-rise black classic chucks completing the look.

Min-seok on the other hand was wearing a dark beige bomber jacket with a grey zip up hoodie and white crew shirt beneath it. The off-white pants he chose paired nicely with the multilayer of tops and like Danny, he went for comfort wearing white sneakers.

"You ready?" Ho-seok beamed, offering me his hand.

I accepted his gesture and let him guide me out of the apartment.

By time we got into Min-seok's Mercedes-Benz, I felt more at ease but quickly noticed Ho-seok's phone vibrating nonstop as he caught up on his missed messages.

"I bet you regret posting our selfie together this morning now, huh?" Min-seok teased. "You basically announced your return to Seoul."

"Everyone already knew I was coming home this week." Ho-seok replied, his eyes focused on his phone screen. "Ha-joon is taking advantage of our friendship, I swear."

Danny chuckled. "Is he using you to advertise tonight's party?"

"Basically. I should charge that bastard." Ho-seok joked.

"Are you promoting your friend's party with your social media or something?" I asked Ho-seok.

He twisted his lips, looking to me as he contemplated how to respond to my question.

"It's hard to explain without sounding arrogant, to be honest." Ho-seok replied.

"I'll answer for you, then." Danny said as she turned around to face us from the front seat. "Ho-seok's name in itself tends to bring in Korea's hottest crowd. His post this morning confirmed, what Ha-joon has been saying is true - which is that Ho-seok will be at his party tonight."

"Really?" I gaped, my eyes widened.

Ho-seok nodded, his smile proud yet weary. However, before I could ask a follow up question I noticed Min-seok pull onto SNU's stunning campus.

It was loaded with youthful college students that were walking and talking with their friends along the concrete sidewalks and lining them were well maintained trees, bushes, and flowers.

Danny was ecstatic, giving me a high level tour as we drove through the university's entrance and into a parking lot.

"Where should we start first?" Danny asked Min-seok.

"How about the business building? It's a nice walk there, from here."

"Oh that's perfect!" Danny squealed.

As I was about to open my door, I felt Ho-seok's hold on my hand tighten.

"Can you guys give us a minute?" Ho-seok asked Danny and Min-seok.

The couple didn't hesitate and when they stepped out of the car, I gave Ho-seok my undivided attention seeing the seriousness in his expression.

"I'm realizing we never really talk about this side of me. Who I am to people in Korea." Ho-seok started. "You know my family is influential in this country, but from a social perspective I'm kind of a big deal as well."

"A big deal?" I asked.

"I'm famous, here." He replied, startling me. "I think this is another area in which being with you has been so refreshing for me. Maybe even an escape and that's why I've never really talked to you about this. You're not on social media and I don't post much when I'm in Boston since the only view and like I'd ever want to see is yours. It's been easy to avoid the topic.

"All that to say, I don't have to post often to maintain my following, which is pretty extensive. It's fair to say I'm a bit of a e-celebrity here, Kayla."

"C-Celebrity?" I stuttered. "To what degree?"

"I'm approached and photographed often. You could say I have fans, too."

I froze, unsure how to respond to this revelation.

Though Ho-seok had no idea, I had done a background check on him when I thought he was a sincere member of The Elite but I just thought he was popular and got a lot of Instagram likes. I had no idea what his day to day looked like when he was in Korea.

"Now that you know this, I want to give you the choice in how we proceed in terms of intimacy in public." Ho-seok proceeded, grazing the back of my hand with his thumb. "I'm not scared of showing the world how I feel about you, but I understand if you're not ready for the attention that will come with being exclusive with me while we're here in Korea."

"What about your dad, though? I'm surprised he hasn't called you home, yet."

"He texted me early this morning. He's away on an emergency business trip for the next few days, so I probably won't see him until the end of the week."

"Still you think its wise to just go public out of the blue, like this? He'll throw a fit, Ho-seok."

"Announcing our relationship will come out of the blue for him no matter what, Kayla."

"I know, but-..." I sighed, biting my lip as I looked down to our locked hands.

My heart was racing and making a decision like this on a random Monday felt so sudden.

"Aein, I told you if you're not ready it's okay." He assured. "Just show me what you want."

Trusting his words, I hesitantly removed my hand from his hold before I presented a remorseful gaze. He still showed me a smile though, and even kissed my pouted lips.

"It's fine, Kayla. I understand." He cooed. "Come on. I can't wait to show you my alma mater."

I followed Ho-seok out of the car and he was quick to fulfill my preference.

He enthusiastically took his place next to Min-seok, and I took mine beside to Danny.

Thankfully, the newlyweds understood our decision without having to ask any questions.

As we strolled through the campus, we all embraced the sunlight and the crisp spring air.

Danny pointed out the campus cafe she spent a lot of time in as a student and Min-seok spoke on the cafeteria the group favored when they all attended SNU. Apparently, a favorite memory from that spot was the first and last time Eun-woo got caught two timing.

"I'll never forget how mad he was at me!" Ho-seok cackled. "Both of the girls threw water in his face, and he looked at me like I was responsible for everything!"

"You did give him the advice that got him caught, though!" Min-seok stated.

"Not true! I told him to tell the girls what they wanted to hear. You gotta read between the lines. That does not mean, make both of them your girlfriend!"

"Oh Eun-woo." Danny and I said, laughing with the boys when we suddenly heard some random girl scream.

"Ahn Ho-seok, oppa!" A young woman squealed.

"Heol! Nam Min-seok, seonbaenim!" Another reacted.

Danny and I stepped back seeing the group of four rush towards the boys, and I kept hearing that term "oppa" and "seonbaenim" over and over again as the crowd of college girls doubled.

I stood perplexed while Ho-seok wore a huge smile and conversed with the smitten college students. Min-seok was much more reserved, while Ho-seok entertained it all.

It appeared he knew one or two of them personally, but the others were strangers that just wanted pictures with him and I could imagine they were shooting their shot as well.

A few of them even started glaring at me, so I looked to Danny for a translation.

"Don't worry." She chuckled. "They asked who you were since they know Min-seok and I are together. He told them that 'beautiful' woman is a part of the Nam family so be respectful."

I scoffed. "Isn't that a bit nosey? Why should he have to explain that to a bunch of strangers?"

"When it comes to celebrities, Korean fans are... Passionate, we'll say." My lips parted, Danny laughed at me as she locked our arms. "You understand what I was saying earlier now, right? In this country, when you're next to those boys, especially the "single" Ahn Ho-seok, all eyes are on them and no one would dare judge or disrespect you in their presence either. Got it?"

I nodded, despite how shocked I was to be dating a Korean "celebrity."

We couldn't go anywhere without the boys getting noticed on this campus, but when the next round of classes started it got easier.

They showed me around the business building where I was informed of the moment Min-seok became the heroic protagonist of Danny's life story, the library in which the group made many memories fulfilling group projects, and we walked around the school's impressive track and field - which I discovered was the formal meeting point between Danny and Min-seok.

From there, we grabbed coffee from the cafe that was near the apartment Danny once lived in with Ji-soo. Danny and Min-seok shared the memories they had created here together as well, one even being the moment Min-seok accepted his feelings for Danny.

I was getting all the tea about Danny and Min-seok's evolution as a couple but as we walked through a large and elegant shopping mall, something dawned on me.

"When do I get to hear about your memories?" I asked Ho-seok.

The two of us were following Danny and Min-seok, the couple lost in their own world as they strolled hand in hand and laughed amongst themselves.

"Soon enough." Ho-seok responded. "Let's just say my memories are a part of the nightlife."

The skin between my eyebrows scrunched, Ho-seok charmingly smirked before he shifted his gaze ahead of me.

"Let's start in Prada. That brand is the closest to Kayla's style." Ho-seok commanded.

"Prada?" I yelped.

"Come on." He encouraged.

Feeling him grab my wrist, those butterflies appeared again.

It had only been a few hours, and I was already desperate for every little touch I could get.

"Annyeonghasimnikka!" A young woman chimed, though her eyes widening when she realized who she was greeting.

The guys stepped ahead of Danny and I while several saleswomen rushed to form a line and even bow before them like trained soldiers.

"Aigoo!" An older woman exclaimed, stepping onto the sales floor from the back.

Based on her attire and the way she carried herself, I could tell she was the Manager in charge and she was so well acquainted with Ho-seok and Min-seok they shared brief hugs with her.

"They're regulars around here. VIPs to be exact." Danny confirmed. "By time we leave this store, the rest of the mall will know they're here too."

My eyes widened as Danny pulled me towards one of many white marble walls lined with LED floating shelves. The minimalist design showcased the brand's exclusive bags and shoes.

Along the center of the well curated store were high-end clothes spaciously hanging on racks and glass display cases that presented even more accessories.

Unintentionally, I spun in circles while observing the refined and prestigious atmosphere that both excited and intimidated me.

"What do you think?" Ho-seok asked.

"It's... It's a lot if I'm being honest. I'm a little overwhelmed."

"If it's because you like so much of what you see, I can make it easy for you." He stated. "There's no need to choose or decide on one. Grab everything you want. It's all on me."

"No." I panicked as I turned to face him. "I can't."

"You can, and I want you to. There's no limit today and while things may change for awhile, I have every intention of making this your reality in the future, Kayla. Get a taste of it now and embrace what it's like being with me."

"Ho-seok." I tried.

"I know you love me for me, but my wealth is also a part of who I am and a lifestyle I want to maintain for us. You're going to have to get used to this at some point, why not start now?"

"It just feels weird."

"Well for me it feels amazing. I've never been able to do this before. I've always told you, being able to purchase nice things means nothing when you have no one to experience them with. I want to buy and gift you lavish goods and see the smile on your face as you enjoy them.

"Same goes for the home we build together. I want to see you living comfortably and enjoying the luxury we achieve with one another. So please don't resist my gesture, today. Don't resist an important part of me and the future we will make together. Please, Kayla."

I sighed, though there was no denying how touched his devotion made me feel.

"I don't even know where to start." I shyly caved.

"I'll help you, then." He grinned.

I watched my rich and powerful boyfriend get to work, conducting the saleswomen as if he was a distinguished maestro.

He pointed to the blouses, sweaters, jackets, dresses, and various bottoms he felt suited my style and as two of the hardworking women moved with every direction he politely demanded, the manager guided me and Danny into a private fitting area.

The staff here moved quickly. Ho-seok and Min-seok were still choosing out things for Danny and I when the first batch of clothes were presented to us, and the associates even rounded up small bites and champaign for the random occasion - setting the elegant spread on an ottoman in front of its matching curved white sofa.

"This is insane." I breathed.

"I had the same reaction the first time Min-seok took me shopping." Danny giggled. "To show your appreciation, its custom to try on everything Ho-seok picks out for you."

"Every single thing?"

She nodded. "Be grateful he and the guys are less traditional. In their culture, Korean men get the final say in what is purchased when they're buying. Ho-seok won't force you to bring home anything you don't like, at least."

A dry chuckle slipped past my lips before we were joined by the boys in the large private room. The two were quick to get comfortable on the sofa, even helping themselves to the champaign and fruit rested before them.

"You're not going to try on anything?" I asked Ho-seok.

"I already own what I wanted from this season's collection." He replied, a cheeky smile growing on his face. "Go on then, aein. Stop being shy. I know better than anyone here the kind of show you're capable of putting on."

"Ho-seok!" I gasped while the group laughed at me, but before I could give the flirt a proper scolding I was guided into one of the two fitting rooms.

I did as Danny instructed, trying on one outfit after another and modeling the look for Ho-seok between each change. Danny, kept me company though and it didn't take long for me to get comfortable feeling so much support and positivity from the crew.

I found myself having fun and even embracing the personalized experience we received in Prada and every other designer store that followed - Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Dolce and Gabbana, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Hermes, and Cartier.

I knew Ho-seok had spent dozens of thousands on me, yet even as we strolled along the mall it was done with little to no strain. We were only carrying a few bags of the items I wanted to wear while in South Korea, the rest being sent directly to Ho-seok's house back in Boston.

After hours of shopping, we returned to Danny and Min-seok's home and the group used the next few hours to recharge while I boldly executed the fastest silk press I had ever accomplished. It was easy to do with Danny's high-quality hair tools and products though.

Unlike this morning, it was so much easier for me to get dressed for the night ahead too. I had so many outfits to choose from that would allow me to keep up with the rich society we were set to party with this evening.

I decided on a black strapless leather midi dress. It featured a corsetry construction with a sweetheart neckline and it hugged every curve on my body perfectly.

I paired the dress with a black set of red-bottom heels and the black Dolce Box Clutch I was already obsessed with.

Feeling fierce, I went for a glamorous makeup look. The color neutral, I went with a shimmering eyeshadow and complimented it with a winged eyeliner and false lashes. I also chose a bold red lip color and accented the highlight along my cheekbones with a bronze glow powder.

"Jesus Christ." Ho-seok breathed.

Following his voice, I looked to him through the reflection of the full length mirror.

He had just re-entered the guest room, fully dressed in all black. His fitted suit was paired with a silky black button up, the top button unfastened, and he chose red-bottom shoes too.

"You look amazing, Kayla." He gushed, stepping behind me as he placed his hands on my hips. "Sophisticated, elegant, and so damn sexy. This is it, this is you."

I blushed, feeling the most confident and empowered I had ever felt in my entire life.

"I'm such a fraud." I chuckled. "I meant it when I said I don't need all of this but-..."

"It feels good, right?" I nodded, Ho-seok beaming as he hugged me. "Like I said, this is the life I plan on giving you, aein. I promise."

I looked over my shoulder, and to preserve my lip color he pecked my nose.

"Should I wear my Dolce belt?" He asked. "This could be a subtle couple outfit since we're keeping our distance in public?"

"Surprisingly, I really like the sound of that." I admitted.

Before I could change my mind, I laughed watching Ho-seok rush to swap his belt while I finalized my look with a spritz of the Chanel perfume he picked out for me, today.

"Alright, you ready?" Ho-seok asked. "The whole group is here. As expected, the idea of doing Korean barbecue in tonight's attire was shot down. We all agreed to go to Ji-soo's family's restaurant tomorrow night, though."

"Sounds good! And yeah, I'm ready. Let's do this!"

Hand in hand, Ho-seok and I stepped into the living area and joined the people that I now saw as family.

The gang was just as supportive of this new side of me as Danny, Min-seok, and my boyfriend. They praised my outfit as we pre-gamed and the compliments kept coming in as we headed to the party in three private black SUVs.

When we pulled in front of the lounge, there was already a line and even photographers taking pictures of the VIP guests as they stepped onto the short red carpet and posed.

"I'm sorry, who his your friend?" I asked Ho-seok and Min-seok.

"Ha-joon?" Ho-seok questioned. "He's a rising model and actor in Korea."

"A what?" I exclaimed. "What did he need your name for, then?"

"I told you. You're dating a South Korean celebrity, Kayla." Ho-seok replied.

For the 100th time today - Danny, Min-seok, and my boyfriend laughed at my dumbfounded reaction and simply guided me out of the car where various flashes came our way.

Fortunately, my cousin knew I didn't want to be photographed and Min-seok and Ho-seok were quick to grab the paparazzi's attention while we darted towards the club's entrance.

When we were safely inside, I looked through the lounge's glass windows. Though I had seen Ho-seok take pictures with his "fans" all day, this still shocked me.

He confidently posed for the cameras beside Min-seok, then the rest of the boys as they came, and individually when the press requested. As he entered the club, I even heard dozens of girls screaming his name.

"Wow, I was expecting a crowd but not to this extent." Min-seok admitted. "Jagiya, you really have to stay in our section tonight. I think it was risky bringing you, here."

Danny nodded. "Don't worry, I'll protect the babies and stay put. I promise."

Ho-seok leading the way, I walked beside Danny while Min-seok protected her on the other side as we entered the lively venue.

I was quite impressed. The music blaring, well dressed young adults were dancing and drinking with their friends in the dark spacious lounge. Colorful strobe lights lit up the dance floor that was surrounded with private sections, one of which we were being escorted to.

As we walked through the crowded dance floor, strangers took pictures of us and when we got to the private section of the venue, Ho-seok and the boys were welcomed by the party's VIPs while nearly every women of their society whispered and batted her lashes at Ho-seok.

"Ha-joon!" Ho-seok enthused, spotting the birthday boy.

The extremely handsome man was already tipsy, stumbling as he greeted Ho-seok and the boys with individual hugs. I on the other hand couldn't stop watching all the thirsty women that were noticeably showing an interest in my man from a far.

"Let's take a seat, Kayla." Danny loudly said in my ear.

I followed her and the girls to our section while the boys engaged with their network. Haneul was amongst them since unlike us, she was born and raised in their society.

According to Danny, while the rest of the girls were never disrespected to their faces they were not liked since the most influential South Korean men of our generation chose to date them instead of women of there quote on quote "class."

"I'm going to need several shots tonight." Amy sighed. "This is gonna be a rough one."

"How can you already tell?" I asked.

She nodded towards a guy that was glaring at our section. "His name is Ji-ho. Him, his friend Tae-yang, and the rest of that group tend to give us a hard time, especially Danny."

"A hard time?" I questioned, my tone defensive.

"Just stay clear of them." Danny advised.

Before I could pry any further, the boys joined us and I was surprised to see Ho-seok take a seat beside me.

"I thought we were keeping our distance." I said to him.

"Not when you're looking like this. I might have made a mistake letting you leave the apartment in this outfit. A few of the guys we just talked to asked who you are and the moment they found out you're related to Danny, they asked if you're single."

My eyes widened, Ho-seok already annoyed and pouring a drink.

"Don't wander off too far tonight." He requested. "It's different here. Men of this society can be entitled, especially if they deem you lower than them."

"Understood." I replied, though I chose to keep a positive attitude for once. "All the liquor is here though, just like all the people I want to dance with. I'll stay put."

Ho-seok smiled and poured me a drink before we saw the rest of the group had already prepared a round for themselves. Even Danny had a glass of water ready, and we cheered to the night ahead before we began conversing together for quite some time.

Maybe 30 or so minutes past before the birthday boy was celebrated at the club, and that led to a major shift in the party. It got much rowdier on the dance floor, where attendees who paid to enter celebrated. The VIPs had their own dance floor that oversaw the "lowly" one.

"I need to step away and handle some business for my father." Ho-seok said into my ear. "Stay out of trouble while I'm away, okay?"

I nodded, smiling to my handsome man as he stood up and walked towards a group of men.

He looked so damn good, schmoozing the group of drunk businessmen with his silver tongue. However, my smile fell seeing three women approach him.

He kept up the act, entertaining them as one even got a little handsy.

Her palm rested on Ho-seok's peck, she spoke into his ear.

"He's the most desired bachelor in Korea right now." Danny said to me. "Don't take it personally as he's approached by women tonight. He has to maintain face, so he can't blatantly reject them as long as you two continue to secretly date."

"I thought Korean's were conservative. Why are they all so touchy?"

"Its the nightlife, and Ho-seok is notorious for being untraditional here. As you know, shy girls don't exactly get his attention."

I sighed, taking another shot of dangerously delicious brown liquor.

"Do I even want to know how many girls he's slept with here?" I questioned, and Danny simply shook her head before I poured myself another shot.

Of course I knew I was dating a former playboy, but damn. I thought he would pipe down while I was around.

As time went on, I saw woman after woman shoot her shot and he didn't reject any of them. He kept up that same flirty smile and entertained all of the attention.

My instincts told me to cuss him out or even storm out of this venue but I did my best to take Danny's advice, though probably not in the smartest way.

I lost count of the amount of shots I took, and I was dancing with the girls to a Korean song that was an absolute banger.

"Let's go to the dance floor!" Amy pleaded.

"With the rest of us peasants?" I drunkly joked, making Amy laugh.

"No, you leave me out then!" Haneul pouted, making an oddly valid point.

"There's the VIP floor?" Amy offered.

"Yeah! Let's go!" Ji-soo agreed.

I started walking with the bold girls before Danny grabbed my wrist.

"I'm coming with you."

"No, Danny! It's dangerous for you."

"It's dangerous for you too!" She replied.

"Didn't you tell me, no one bothers people associated with the boys?" She sighed, her shoulders falling. "Just a few minutes! What could go wrong, Danny?"

"You have no idea, Kayla."

"I'll behave, I swear." I promised.

Defeated, Danny released her hold on my wrist and I danced my way onto the VIP floor.

I learned the song we were dancing to was a legendary classic called The Baddest Female by an artist named CL.

I understood a few of the lyrics, but I was mainly vibing to the beat. I rolled my hips, embracing my buzz as I pushed my fingers through my straight silky hair.

Despite my frustrations with Ho-seok, I felt as good as I knew I looked and I wanted to live freely tonight.

My arms raised, I danced to myself until I felt a random set of hands grab my waist.

I turned around, and was surprised to see one of the vary people I was told to be weary of.

"Hey!" The man greeted. "Do you speak Korean?"

"No." I hesitantly replied.

"All good, my English is strong." He smirked. "I'm Tae-yang. You're Danny's cousin I hear?"

I nodded. "Are you close with her?"

"Of course! We all love our foreign princess!" He lied. "I had no idea she was related to such a beauty. You're gorgeous."

"You're too kind. Thank you."

Attempting to step away, I was annoyed when I felt his grip on my waist grow firm.

"Dance with me?" He requested.

"I'm good."

Attempting a second escape, he pulled me against his chest before he spoke into my ear.

"You shouldn't be like that." I gasped feeling him grope me. "Don't get cocky just because your cousin married into Nam Group. I know everything that you're wearing is borrowed. Spend the night with me though, and I can send you back to the America with 10 times the amount you're clothed in."

Beside myself, I froze though my fist was formed. I was ready to punch this psycho in the face by time I felt someone grip my arm and pull me out of his hold.

Before I could react, my eyes widened seeing Ho-seok push Tae-yang further away from me.

"Are you okay? What did he say?" Ho-seok panicked, his hand caressing my cheek as he examined me up close. "Did he touch you?"

Seeing the rage in Ho-seok eyes, I wasn't sure if it was smart to tell him the details.

"Kayla!" He roared, and all I could do was nod.

His jaw tightened and eyes narrowed, Ho-seok faced Tae-yang as the entitled pervert started confronting him in Korean.

I had no idea what he was saying to Ho-seok, but I could tell he was making matters worse.

"Kayla, step back." Amy advised, grabbing my wrist.

"What's he saying?"

Before she could respond, Ho-seok grabbed the grabbed the front of Tae-yang's shirt. The two were nose and nose, Tae-yang wearing an provoking smile.

"Amy!" I pressed.

"He insulted you and Ho-seok." She confirmed. "Ho-seok's from new money. He told Ho-seok, he finally found a woman that matches the lowly class he was originally born into."

I gasped, my hand covering my parted lips before I watched Ho-seok deliver such a hard blow to the side of Tae-yang's face - he stumbled to the ground.

All of the party's VIP guests were startled to see the sudden fight break out and when Ho-seok began overpowering Tae-yang with both his strength and well developed boxing skills, the asshole's friends jumped in.

"Ho-seok!" I yelled.

Before I could even take a step towards him his brothers got involved, next.

"Kayla!" Danny called for me.

My heart sank seeing her nudge her tiny figure through the rowdy crowd.

"Get back to the section!" I ordered her.

"You have to come with me!" She begged. "Let the guys take care of it! Please, Kayla!"

I glanced back, and the boys appeared to be winning the fight but I caught a cheater inching in on it from the side.

"Go back to the section, now Danny!" I commanded, and fortunately Amy was aligned with me.

She grabbed Danny and pulled her away while I rushed towards the sneaky jerk that was holding a thick glass bottle of liquor. I knew it wasn't for drinking, especially seeing the disturbing glare he had directed at the boys' "maknae."

"Eun-woo!" Ji-soo yelled.

Hearing her call, Eun-woo looked away from the opponent he was dominating and his brown eyes grew round when he noticed the threat that was approaching.

My legs restricted by the form fitted dress, I would have to deal with this guy from the top.

As he raised the bottle to smash it over Eun-woo's head, I chopped to the back of his elbow with my straightened hand and grabbed the bottom of his blazer before I pulled it over his head and swiftly flipped him onto his back.

"Noona!" Eun-woo breathlessly enthused, giving me a thumbs up. "You're the best!"

Relieved, I softly chuckled until Ji-soo appeared. She wasted no time getting back at the man who attacked her newly titled fiancé.

"Michyeosseo!" She fiercely exclaimed, kicking Eun-woo's assailant over and over again.

As Eun-woo did his best to pull his enraged partner away from the guy well deserving of such a beating, we all suddenly heard whistles blowing.

It was the lounge's security and as I tried to locate the direction they were coming from, I was surprised to find none of the VIPs were filming this.

To add to that surprise, as the security team forcefully broke up the fight I got to see the boys power and popularity in action again.

His face bloodied and bruised, the Tae-yang character threw a fit as the guards fulfilled the birthday boy's order and dragged him and his friends of the party.

Ho-seok on the other hand brushed down his suit, his well proportioned face untouched.

His brothers were unharmed too, though they were a little more disheveled than Ho-seok.

As the trash got thrown out of the club, the DJ charismatically got the party started again with a hype chant followed by an EDM remix of a BTS' single Butter.

All of the boys were being comforted and celebrated by the girls, Min-seok already seated at our section as he and Danny anxiously observed each other up close.

Ho-seok on the other hand was being praised by a group of guys and two touchy women, which served as a quick reminder of what him and I agreed to this afternoon.

My head hanging low, I started walking through the crowded dance floor when I suddenly felt his familiar hold on my wrist.

I turned around to face Ho-seok, his hand grabbing my waist.

"Are you okay?" I checked. He shook his head as be brought his lips beside my ear.

"I miss you." He stated, chills rushing down my spine as he pulled me against his chest. "I don't want to maintain anymore space tonight. I want to be with you."

Looking back to each other, our noses brushed as I accepted the same desire.

"Your dad told you, you could have all the fun you want with me. Right?" I enticingly schemed.

Cheeks dimpled, Ho-seok nodded as I wrapped my arms around his neck.

The remix echoing through the speakers began building up, just like the alluring tension between us.

Looking me in my eyes - Ho-seok's large hand nearly covered the entirety of my back, his other rested on along my hip as I glanced at his full pink lips.

I barely noticed us closing the gap, our mouths drawn to each other like two magnets.

People were jumping and dancing all around us, anticipating the beat drop that hit the moment Ho-seok captured my lips with his bourbon flavored pair.

Grinning into the next kiss, we laughed together as we started to sway to the music ourselves.

"Heol!" Eun-woo yelled, grabbing mine and Ho-seok's attention. He was dancing with Ji-soo, who was just as pleasantly surprised to see our PDA. "Party's really getting started, aye?"

Cracking up, Ho-seok and I started dancing with the rest of the group now that we noticed they were surrounding us too. Even Danny was beside me and cautiously dancing with her protective baby daddy.

Despite the many glares and whispers being directed at me, I focused on Ho-seok as he held my hands and guided me to the electronic house beat.

It was hard to believe I spent the entire day learning about another layer of the already complex world Ho-seok warned me of. However, while I was nervous to meet Ho-seok the celebrity earlier today, I found myself at ease this evening as it became increasingly clear...

No matter how "famous" Ho-seok was, he was still just Ho-seok and somehow...

I was lucky enough to be the only person in this world, who knew what that meant.  

____

Author's Note: Another long chapter, but that should make up for another delinquent update! 

Our boy is a big big big deal! Were you as surprised as Kayla to find out he was so famous? 

The couple had an amazing first day in Seoul, but as you can see their passion outweighs discipline. How far will the couple take it, and what does this mean for the rest of the story?

Please remember to vote and comment! Thanks for your support!

- Zelene