Disclaimer : I'm a huge KPop fan and you will come across names and photographs of KPop idols in most of my stories. They are my muse and inspiration in so many ways. The incidents and characters are fictional and have no resemblance to any K pop idol in any manner.
Andy remembered that day so clearly. It was the day they met for the first time.
He woke up to a drizzly morning and lazily stretched out his lean, muscular body. He loved rains! There was something so hopelessly romantic about the rain.... He wished he had someone to hold on to and share a coffee with, while watching the rain or to hold hands with while walking in the rain....
Andy got up from the bed and looked out of the window. He couldn't resist the urge to put his hand out of the window and touch the raindrops. The sound of the rain seemed to wash away all the doubts and worries. The cobbled streets had been washed clean and the trees looked green.
Luckily he still had time to enjoy a leisurely morning, since he was working from home today. But the weather was so beautiful that he didn't want to be cooped up inside the room all day! So, he decided to treat himself to a sumptuous lunch at his favourite cafe.
Andy's phone beeped and he scrolled down to see the message. There was a live musical performance in his usual haunt, his friend Jim's bar, by a local lad, who was already a global internet sensation. Andy was quite the fanboy and he immediately called his friend and booked the best table for the evening.
So, plans changed as he made himself some sandwiches and salad for brunch. He had to be there at the Bar by 5, so that he could catch the young singer before the crowds gathered. He loved to talk to people and make new contacts.
Andy got ready for his video conference as he sipped on his coffee. After the meeting, he had his brunch and decided to finish some pending work so he could enjoy the evening thoroughly.
It was 4.30 pm. Andy looked dapper in his smart embroidered jacket and black boots. He wore a black trench coat and a black hat since it was a bit nippy outside. With his umbrella in one hand, he started walking towards the Bar. It was a refreshing 20 minutes walk, in the rain, which invigorated Andy. He could see his destination already and was glad he had reserved his table! A crowd had started gathering outside and he saw Jim waving out to him. As soon as Andy came closer, Jim pulled him inside and hugged him. They moved to the centre of the room and sat down on the table right in front of the stage.
Jim was Andy's best friend since schooldays. Andy was in high school when his parents had divorced and remarried. None of them wanted the troublesome teenager and each wanted to live their separate lives. Jim's parents loved and cared for Andy. They helped Jim open this huge Bar and Andy worked here to earn his first paycheques till he graduated and found a good job. Jim always encouraged and helped Andy in every possible way till he was doing well enough to buy his own house! When Jim lost his old ailing parents a few years back, Andy cried more than him; he was always the more emotional one! Now Jim was the only family Andy had....While they were both tall and handsome, Andy was physically fitter!
Andy looked around the Bar and saw the young singer and his band members busy arranging their instruments, mics and speakers. He walked up to the famous singer, who looked even younger up close and held out his hand.
Andy- Hi! I'm Andy. Jim's friend. Jungkook, right? I'm a big fan of yours!
Jungkook(JK)- Oh, really? So wonderful to meet you, Sir! Fanboys are rare for a male singer unless you sing hard rock! I hope I don't disappoint you tonight!
Andy- Oh, I know you will set this place on fire with your passionate performance and Jim will earn big money tonight! Just see that crazy crowd outside! You look way younger in person! How old are you? Please call me Andy!
JK- I'm 23, Sir... I mean, Andy! Is there any particular song you want to listen to?
Andy- Ah! I love all your songs but the latest one is my favourite! 'Still with you '...
JK- Of course, I will start with that, just for you, Andy! You chose such a romantic song... Do you wish to dedicate it to someone?
Andy- Oh no no! I'm happily single right now! Still waiting for my ideal woman to appear like magic and sweep me off my feet! What about you? Girlfriends???
JK- Well, I do have a crush on someone.... She is older than me though and treats me like a 'brother'!
As Jungkook blushed and rolled his eyes, Andy smiled at him.
Andy-Well, women are complicated! I wish you all the very best, young man! Your parents must be so proud of you!
JK- Thank you Andy! Yes, my parents have been really supportive! Both my parents were teachers. They retired and settled down here. When I told them about my interest in music, they let me pursue my dream without any objections! They will be here tonight.... Oh, they are here! Excuse me Andy!
As Jungkook walked towards the door, Andy saw a smartly dressed couple in their late 40s. With them was a girl with the brightest brown eyes he had ever seen! He stood transfixed as Jungkook came closer and introduced him to his family.
JK- Andy, my parents Mr and Mrs Jeon and my twin sister Kia.
Andy was quick to notice that Jungkook was communicating with Kia in sign language and he immediately did the same. Jungkook ,his parents and Kia were pleasantly surprised. With big happy smiles, they hugged Andy, as he ushered them to his table.
Jungkook went back to the stage to his band mates and they started practising. Jim came over to welcome JK's family and sat for a while.
Andy was mesmerised by Kia's bright eyes and her beautiful smile, as she watched her brother rehearse, lit up his world with happiness. Andy was so busy watching Kia that he didn't realise Jim was talking to him till he heard a loud scream.
Jim- ANDY!!!!! Where are you, pal?? Did you hear even a word I said?
Andy- Uhh... Oh, I'm so sorry.... I was thinking about something.....
Jim raised an eyebrow and smirked, as he whispered- "Something or..... someone? "
Andy could see the Jeons looking at him, amused, which made him blush. Kia, oblivious to whatever transpired, was enjoying watching her brother. She couldn't hear his angelic voice and that brought tears into her eyes.... Andy noticed but said nothing, wishing he could take her in his arms and comfort her...
The Bar was packed with people tonight. Generally, even on a weekend, it isn't so crowded but today because of Jeon Jungkook's live performance, Jim's huge property seemed too small and crowded!
The program started with Jungkook's little introduction and Andy's 'request '. As the angelic, sensual voice of the young boy filled up the room, Andy's eyes were fixed on Kia, unblinking. When Jungkook called out his name, Andy got up and thanked him for the beautiful song. Kia was clapping away in delight...
The evening progressed and Andy found himself drowning deeper into Kia's brown orbs. Her laugh, her smile, the glow on her face, her graceful movements and her beautiful brown eyes- this is all Andy could think about. He was quiet during dinner with Jim and the Jeons after the performance, but kept casting furtive glances towards Kia. Jungkook had noticed and didn't look too happy about it. As the Jeons were leaving, Jungkook pulled Andy to a side and said," Andy, please stay away from Kia. I know you like her and are a good guy but I can't see my sister hurt!"
Andy watched as Jungkook walked away. He picked up his umbrella and walked back home feeling sad and empty... His love story ended before it even began! Well, maybe it's just a crush! He hardly knows Kia, after all!
If it weren't for Kia's lingering memories that stayed with Andy every time, everywhere, he would have been his usual cheerful self! Thankfully, he was working from home these days, so no one commented on his blank expressions and eyes that lacked his trademark spark and energy!
Andy was cooped up in his house for almost a month now. Every time Jim or anyone else called him out, he made excuses and stayed home. He was unhappy and lonely.... He understood why Jungkook was protective about Kia but his heart hurt, nonetheless! If only he had one chance to prove his love for Kia.....The rain outside made him miss having the love of his life close to him....He sighed as he looked out into the dark night outside which mirrored the darkness in his heart....
Lost in his thoughts, Andy was shaken out of it when the doorbell rang incessantly.
Andy(shouting)- Ah! Wait! I'm coming!
Jim was standing outside, dripping wet. Andy quickly gave him a towel to dry himself and took him straight to the washroom giving him dry clothes to change into. Jim brought some wine but Andy was in the mood for some scotch! The two friends ordered a pizza and sat down with their glasses of scotch. Jim was a sponge but Andy wasn't good with alcohol. After 2 glasses, Andy was already drunk. Jim had guessed Andy wasn't his usual self because he hadn't checked any of his messages in the past week nor replied to them! Every time Jim called, he excused himself saying he was busy with work! Finally, Jim had decided to take a look himself.
A drunk Andy was even less cheerful than the sober one! Within minutes he was pouring out his heart's agony to Jim who heard him out, hugged him, comforted him. Andy was in love, for the first time in his life and the flower of love was nipped in the bud! Jim knew Jungkook and his family very well. He understood a brother's protective instinct but he felt awful for his friend. Poor guy! First love is always the most difficult to get over..... Or forget. Jim was hoping things work out for Andy or he finds someone else.... Soon.
Andy had finally started going to office. His mind was still full of Kia, but after venting out to Jim that day, he was almost back to his cheerful self. Unrequited love, unsuccessful first love is painful and Andy was learning to live with it. He couldn't get over or forget Kia, nor did he make any attempts to meet her again.... He had no idea where or how she was.... Jim tried to encourage and motivate Andy to fight for his love, but Andy didn't want to annoy Jungkook.
One morning, Andy saw a crowd gathered at his desk when he reached the office. As he made his way inside, he noticed Jeon Jungkook sitting pretty on his chair and crooning away to a spellbound audience. No one noticed Andy and he also stopped to enjoy the soulful rendition of 'Still with you' by Jungkook. The memory of Kia's beautiful smile and sparkling eyes brought a smile to Andy's face.
When the song ended, the audience clapped and cheered the young talent. Jungkook saw Andy and smiled awkwardly, scratching his head.
Jungkook- Hi Andy! Sorry for coming here without informing you.... I also apologise for my behaviour that day! I hope you are doing fine.
Andy- I'm fine. How's everyone at home?
Jungkook moved to the visitor's chair so that Andy could sit on his chair and looked at Andy. Was he really in love with Kia? He never bothered to get in touch after that night, so Jungkook had his doubts. Kia is his twin and Jungkook was extremely protective about her. Jungkook and Kia were extremely close, almost telepathic, as twins generally are. Innocent and naive, hearing and speech impaired Kia was lucky to have a caring and loving family. Jungkook knew that Andy had left a lasting impression, a positive one, on his sister. When Andy used sign language to communicate with her and gave her his undivided attention, Kia was touched. It's been more than a month now and Kia has been curious about Andy. She requested Jungkook to find out more about Andy and tell her because for the first time in her life, Kia had found a man who had looked at her with love, not pity and treated her like a woman. The few hours in the Bar, despite their limited interaction, made Kia fall for Andy's friendly,respectful and considerate nature. She thought a lot about him and found herself falling in love with Andy. One day, Jungkook found her lost in her thoughts, smiling to herself. When he asked she told him she was in love with Andy and would like to know him better. But, Kia was also worried about being rejected. So, Jungkook had volunteered to ask Andy about his feelings for Kia. So, here he was, evaluating the man in front of him.
Jungkook- Oh, everyone at home is fine and they remember you a lot. In fact, my parents wanted to invite Jim and you over for lunch tomorrow. Are you free?
Andy- Of course! I don't know about Jim though, because he was going out for the weekend to meet his parents.
Jungkook- I'll talk to him! Hoping to see you tomorrow! Err..... Do you still feel the same about Kia?
Andy- Yes.... See, I tried to forget her... I purposely didn't visit her or talked to her because I wanted to be sure of my feelings first! I'm ready to wait for her till she is ready for a relationship.... Jungkook, I really love Kia and I want to spend my life with her! I know she means a lot to you.... I would need your love and support to keep Kia happy. If you and I don't get along well, Kia will get hurt....I'm not upset about what you said that day because I can understand your love for her!
Jungkook- I was worried that you might be a...er... gold digger! But now I know you aren't.... I know you love Kia and she likes you too! Anyway, let's continue the conversation tomorrow! See you! 12 sharp, my place! Bye Andy!
Andy was trying to concentrate on my work after Jungkook left. But he was really excited at the prospect of seeing Kia again. She likes him too? Wow! He'll prove it to her that liking him was the best decision ever! Jim was busy tomorrow, so, it'll be just him!
Sundays are Andy's favourite! He can sleep late, wake up late and just lounge around in his pyjamas! But, not today! This Sunday was different because he had to be at the Jeon Mansion by 12. Looking at the Jeons, he never thought they'd be rich folks, but he could be wrong....
Andy took a long time to choose his outfit and finally settled for a formal look- trousers, shirt and tie, with a linen jacket. For the umpteenth time, he checked his appearance and then dashed out to the garage. As he drove down to the pinned location Jungkook had sent, he kept thinking about Kia.
Finally, after a 15 minute drive, he was outside the bustling town approaching a driveway lined with cherry trees in full bloom! It was beautiful! The gate opened automatically and Andy drove in, admiring the beautiful oriental gardens and the manicured lawns. Luxurious and tasteful indeed! The mansion was a traditional Korean house(Hanok), sprawled out and quaint looking, but equipped with every possible gadgets for sure!
Andy parked in the designated guest parking and the huge wooden door opened, as Jungkook walked out to receive him. They hugged and went inside, taking their shoes off, Andy's eyes taking in every inch of the tastefully decorated Hanok-minimalist and classy. No over the top knick knacks, expensive artsy stuff!
Andy- Your house is beautiful Jungkook! So simple and classy! Just like you all!
Jungkook- Thank you! I am someone who is totally uncomfortable with expensive luxuries and meaningless vanity! I like simple living.
Jungkook ushered Andy into the traditional Korean dining area where Mr and Mrs Jeon, Kia and a little girl were already seated. Andy bowed low in respect and sat down next to Mr Jeon, opposite Kia. They all greeted and smiled formally, as Jungkook sat down next to his sister. Mrs Jeon was sitting with the little girl who looked at Andy with curious eyes.
He was formally introduced as Andy, Jungkook's friend and finally got a smile from little Bai. She was Kia's carbon copy! Was she Kia's daughter? Well, she looked like....
Andy's surprised look didn't go unnoticed. In fact, everyone noticed it. They quietly ate with scattered conversation here and there. Finally, Mrs Jeon and the girls left to take rest while Mr Jeon and Jungkook walked with Andy into the living room. They sat down and Jungkook looked at Andy.
JK- Yes, you guessed that right! Bai is Kia's daughter. Two years back, Kia's therapist took advantage of her innocence, saying he loved her. I was always busy with tours and events, parents were still teaching, close to retirement. That man knew Kia was an easy target. He made a false promise of marriage and got her pregnant. When I learnt about it, he had escaped but the police managed to trace him. Although an adult, her medical condition made the judge decide the case in her favour and that man is in jail right now. That's why I'm extremely protective about Kia.... I'm happy that she found someone who loves her.... Andy, I felt you should know about Kia's past.... Now, knowing that she has a toddler and knowing about her past, are your feelings still the same? See, Kia doesn't need anyone's sympathy or pity! I'm there to take care of her till I die! But she likes you.... I can't be cruel enough to stop her from finding love....
Andy- Jungkook, I can't tell you how much I appreciate your telling me about Kia's past and Bai. I still love Kia just as much.... Her innocence, her bright smile lights up my world! I really want to make her happy so that she never stops smiling... I want to give her all the love so that she knows what true love is.... I promise you I will never hurt her and I won't spare anyone who hurts her! I will love and protect her with my life!
Mr Jeon- Andy, I am happy to hear your words.... But there is one thing you still don't know, nor does Jungkook. Kia can never have children. She was so young and weak when she had Bai that her doctor was scared she may not survive the surgery! Are you okay with that? Loving Bai like your own child all your life?
Andy took Mr Jeon's hands in his own and looked at both the men.
Andy-Mr Jeon, Jungkook, please believe me... I'm sincerely willing to be with Kia, no matter the past or the future! She is my present, she is my joy, my life! The moment I saw her I felt moved by her.... Please give me one chance to prove my love!
Jungkook- Andy, dad and I are going in now. I will send Kia out and you both can have a conversation. If you need any help I'll be in the studio.
As the Jeons hugged Andy and left, he felt overwhelmed by Kia's plight! He would have definitely killed that .... idiot! He stood up as Kia shyly walked towards him. Andy and Kia communicated in sign language. The conversation lasted for about an hour and finally, Kia had tears in her eyes as Andy proposed marriage to her. Crying with happiness, Kia hugged Andy and he held her protectively in his arms. Kia felt safe... She felt a warmth she had only associated with her family. She looked up at Andy and nodded her approval.
Kia ran inside, dragging Andy with her, straight into Jungkook's studio. She hugged her brother and her parents. Andy watched Kia as she excitedly told them about Andy's proposal and her acceptance. Jungkook had tears in his eyes as he hugged Andy and said," Thank you so much! I'm here if you need any help!" The Jeons were really happy and excited, already planning the wedding details.
Andy and Kia had a traditional Korean wedding, followed by a Reception at the Church. It was neither too lavish nor extravagant! But it was definitely the talk of the town! Bai took no time getting comfortable with her 'Papa'! Andy was happy... He didn't feel empty and he wasn't lonely anymore! He now had Jim as well as his own loving family- the Jeons!
As Jungkook's melodious voice held the audience in a trance with the seductive and jazzy 'Still with you', Andy and Kia danced, lost in each other's eyes, dreaming of a beautiful life together...
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