Cinderella - Angel JJ [chapter 20 + 21]

Chapter 20

Min woo and soo jin walked side by side along the beach as the sun set on their sides. It had been the second day already and they would return the next morning to Seoul. During these two quiet and stress free days, soo jin’s spirit rose considerably and once so often min woo could catch the sides of her lips curling upwards. It was very subtle and lasted a second or less but min woo always caught her in the act. He knew it was right to bring her here and maybe she was really starting to get over it.

“Oppa.....”

Soo jin called to min woo softly. He turned his head her way and only waited for her to continue. Soo jin suddenly stopped in her tracks and stepped in front of min woo. He stared at her startled but remained silent.

“Oppa I’ve made up my mind....”

Still min woo said nothing, a strange feeling penetrated him but he couldn’t pin it down exactly. Something about soo jin irked him.

“I don’t know why I was so blind before.....leaving with Danny......when the person who loved me most was right in front of me.....I know I’m not being fair to Angel unnie but.....I need you oppa.....and now that I see.....”

Her voice trailed off and soo jin took another step closer towards min woo, their bodies now touching. She wrapped both arms around min woo’s neck brought her face closer to his until they could feel each other’s warm breath.

Min woo’s eyes widened and his body was shocked into frozen state. Everything was a blur in his mind, thoughts roaming around so fast that he couldn’t collect and make sense of anything that seemed to just appear. Soo jin’s lush lips were only a centimetre or less from his yet all he felt was confusion. How was that possible? Why didn’t he bring her in close and cover her cherry red lips with his, like he always wanted to? Why didn’t he hug her tightly and tell her how happy he was to hear her say that? Why.....did this blurry figure keep distracting him? Shaking his head to rid of the unwanted thoughts, min woo felt bothered and angry. He didn’t understand the way this scenario seemed to be developing and didn’t want it to continue this way but it did. The blurry image that was distracting kept gnawing at his patience. In a sudden, min woo pushed away the pale and shaking girl in front of him.

Soo jin fell to the ground in a thud but her reaction was what astonished min woo. She sat in the sand staring up at him while rubbing her sore behind but she was smiling all the same and through that smile she communicated to him words of gratitude and relief. It was a pained smile but to min woo it was this crack that allowed min woo to see through soo jin’s thoughts.

“You’re....not over him are you...?”

“Even if I was.....it wouldn’t have made a difference.....”

She replied with a hint of acknowledgement.

“What....do...you....mean...?”

Soo jin only smiled and stood up. She looked out towards the horizon and took a deep breath.

“I’ve always had a thing for sunsets.....what about you oppa?”

She murmured and asked him randomly.

“....I like watching the sun rise.....”

He said watching her facial expressions from the side. Soo jin smiled and turned her head around to look him in the eyes.

“Funny.......so does Angel unnie....”

With that soo jin turned her back to min woo and continued forward up the deserted beach, kicking the crystal clear water as it washed up shore.

So does Angel unnie......

Soo jin’s words swirled around min woo’s mind disorientating his train of thoughts once again. At the mention of Angel his heart jerked and missed a beat. Min woo abruptly came to comprehend what it was that had been tugging at his suppressed emotions these two days.

Angel.....

The blurred images gradually came into perspective and to his surprise, they were all images of Angel. Her smiling face, her laughing eyes and her angry pout, min woo felt as if he was discovering a whole new world in his mind, hid behind a door he never even knew was there. Where did the key come from?

* * * * *

Min woo walked by himself against the gentle breeze in his face, treading on the clear and icy water. He didn’t know when he had started this walk or how long he had been walking. He just knew he wanted to keep walking until he came to some sort of destination, end or conclusion. In search for that something he knew was there but was too ignorant to appreciate before. But who could he blame when it was himself that invisiblised this happiness waiting for just a glimpse from him. Looking ahead, he could see the small glint of light and finally now he was making a move and grasping the chance to locate the exit from this undeniably idealised world he had never thought he would want to let go of. That is until now, she brought light into his world, she brought happiness, she brought him a chance to find himself. Min woo began to contemplate his reasons beneath his cling to this love for soo jin. Angel ripped his icy wall of protection down layer by layer with her bright personality and understanding. He couldn’t think of one time when she wasn’t there supporting him. Thinking hard now, min woo at long last began to value and recognize the reason why she was there for him at all. It was because of one word, love. She loved him and he didn’t know from when it started but.....he loved her too.

His mind replayed back to three days before when she had turned around and walked away from their taxi. He longed for her to turn around and wave, he longed for her to smile and tell him that she would be waiting until he came back, he longed for her all in all. When her figure edged away from the taxi, min woo had a strong urge to rush out and pull her into his arms but he stepped and trodded on all these snippets of feelings that seemed to reveal themself when he wasn’t careful. He didn’t want these feelings, these urges, these desires he was losing control of more and more.

The flicker of sorrow in her eyes when he refused to speak and only stared at her silently in the car pulled at his heart strings. Min woo didn’t know where these memories came from but they seemed to be all stored in the back of his mind and ready for retrieval whenever he wanted. Her smile, her pout, the twinkle in her eyes and the dimple in her right cheek were all swirling instinctively in his mind. He loved the girl but was he going to lose her for realising too late?

I was blind....I didn’t see....I couldn’t see.....I’m sorry Angel.....maybe it was because I actually didn’t want to see......I was scared......I was a coward......and hurt you so deep.....

I don’t ask for your forgiveness because I don’t think I deserve it......but give me a chance to explain.....to tell you how much I really do love you....I may not have been the best husband but I’ll change...I promise.....please don’t tell me it’s too late Angel....I’ve lost a lot in my life and.....I don’t think I can afford losing anymore.....I can smile and wait for the pain to go away when I lose anything else.....but to lose you....I can’t even begin to imagine the agony......

Taking in a deep breath, min woo sat down on the sand and stared up into the vast sheet of dark blue satin studded with diamonds shining so dazzlingly. Each speckle of twinkling reminded him of Angel.

Starlight,

Star bright,

I wish I may,

I wish I might,

Have this wish,

I wish tonight

Angel, if you can hear me right now.....don’t go......please......the look in your eyes when we left.....I have so much to tell you.....I want to share my feelings with you......the one’s I’ve been shamelessly hiding.....and despising.......I’m sorry.......I know now.....just don’t tell me it’s too late.....don’t......

Min woo reached in his pocket and pulled out a small black box and pulled the lip open to reveal something reflecting off the starlight and shining just as brightly as the jewels in the sky. Inside was a pair of miniature slippers cut from pink diamonds and attached on the sides of each slipper was a tiny green bow cut from a green gemstone.

Just let me put these on your hands.......like I was supposed to that morning....I don’t know what stopped me...but.....when I saw your hopeful eyes......I couldn’t......I was too afraid to show you this....and confront the fierce rush of emotions......I didn’t know what to think....what it meant....what I wanted it to mean....but now I do....and when I place this in your palms.....I want to tell you......since a long time ago.....when I didn’t even know....I fell in love with you.......

* * * * *

“OPPA!”

Soo jin slapped min woo on the shoulder and gave him a look. He shrugged and gave a helpless look. Ever since they settled down in their seats on the plane, min woo couldn’t keep still and being nearly four hours into the trip back, soo jin was getting slightly irritated. She was trying to get some rest in her seat but min woo would keep her awake by either making a lot of noise while eating onion rings or hit her once in awhile by accident when he reached to the side for his luggage to look for something to do. Somehow an excited and uncompressible emotion surged through him and he could almost feel his heart leap over the oceans and fly back to Seoul right now. He wanted to see Angel as soon as possible and tell her everything he’s come to realise. He wanted her to know how stupid he had been to see her standing there and not recognize the love she wore on her sleeves for him. He wanted to pour his heart out in front of her as soon as possible.

Wait for me Angel....I’m nearly there......

He stroked the satin box enclosed by his hand with a thumb and wore a secret smile. All his thoughts and feelings and love were sheltered in that one small box and when he hands it over to Angel, he will be free from constraint.

Watching min woo from the corner of her eye, soo jin let out a sigh of relief and lifted up the window screen on the side to let some light in. Looking out, she observed the fluffy white clouds and translucent azure. When she was little, looking up at the sky and searching for the Angels with wings would be one of her favourite hobbies. She believed they were always up there looking over and protecting her. Now she knew she was wrong, there were no Angels in the sky looking down on her, it wasn’t the Angels that stood up for her whenever she was bullied, no Angel ever turned up when she was faced with a problem. Unless, that Angel was Lee min woo. A silent tear slid down her face but she made no move to wipe it off her face. The tears were holding special meanings that she wanted to let go of now.

You never know how much someone means to you until you lose them.....I guess we both learnt the hard way oppa.....but it’s okay.....to love someone is to see them happy.....when I see you smiling with contentment.....my pain lessens.....Angel unnie has survived through such an ordeal.....you have finally seen the light.....maybe.....I will be okay too in the end......after all....I brought this upon myself.....if only.....I had realised....sooner......maybe....all this would be different......?

I’m sorry I lied to you oppa......there was nothing wrong with Danny.......it was me.....I made those things up because....I couldn’t stand telling you the real reason that brought me back to Seoul.....I didn’t understand it....and I just didn’t know how I would tell you.....I’m glad I never summoned up the courage to tell you though......because I’m so scared of hurting......

Yesterday....when I wrapped my arms around you.....words cannot express the way I had felt.....I was indeed testing you....but deep down.....I wanted you to kiss me.....I could never admit it now but.....if you had.....I think I would have taken up my selfish side again and kept you all to myself......and to think......after all Angel unnie’s done for me.....all’s fair in love and war......but I lost......my first and very last gamble.....

All these things......will be buried deep inside of me.....all I wish for you now....is to be happy and hold onto the one you love......

Because.....later might just be too late......

Take for an example......me......

Chapter 21

Angel hurried down the stairs at a fast pace but a voice called her to halt before she could step outside with her bag and jacket in hand.

“Wait!”

Min woo’s father shouted from the living room and came walking out from the living room.

“Where are you going?”

“Oh....to pick up min woo...”

She replied slightly abashed and unable to meet him in the eyes. Min woo’s father clenched his fist and stared at her in anger.

“Don’t lie to me....min woo called me in the morning to tell me he’s returning tonight....there was a flight delay....”

He eyed her waiting for an explanation.

“Really...? Oh....I didn’t know....well....I’ll just go to the café and pick them up later.....”

She said without much thought and shuffled, eager to get out of the house and away from his gaze. Observing her unease he sighed and toned down his voice but spoke all the same with an accusing manner.

“Don’t think I can’t see what you’ve been doing these three days....I know you’ve been secretly packing away a lot of your things.....tell me....what are you planning to do?”

“It doesn’t matter......”

She responded carelessly as her eyes shifted from the doorway to her dad’s aging face. He looked especially old and tired, his eyes calling out for her pity.

“What do you mean it doesn’t matter? Of course it matters! If you’re thinking about leaving this house then forget it because I won’t let you.”

“Why not.....?”

“Because......because.......min woo needs you!”

He blurted out and then turned away flabbergasted. A small pained sound of laughter escaped from Angel as she shook her head and tightened her lips.

“Not....anymore....”

He stared at the eyes that had lost their light a long time ago unable to say anything. It was true, he had seen the look min woo held in his eyes for soo jin, as if she was irreplaceable, the love of his life. He didn’t blame Angel for wanting to leave, to escape, to find a way out of this misty world of uncertainty but selfishly, he wished she would stay for min woo.

“You know that’s not true.....just because-”

He tried to explain and twist the truth for min woo but Angel cut him off harshly.

“It is true....and I don’t want to keep pretending it’s not.....I get hurt....I get tired too....and right now.....I think it’s the furthest I can go.....”

There’s only so much I can handle.....and......I promised didn’t I....? When he didn’t need me anymore.....I would step back away from his life in silence......I would.....I will......

Just so happens.....I’ve finally learnt how to accept and step away....I only get to live once.....is the suffering....really necessary?

“I’m sorry it didn’t turn out.....I really am....”

Taken back by her unfeeling tone, he held her hands tightly and searched her eyes one last time, in hope of seeing any sign of longing still present. Unfortunately, all he found was a determination to give up, to let go, to admit failure. Didn’t she care anymore?

“Dad, don’t say that, we all want the best for min woo. Remember when you used to tell me how much you wanted soo jin to be your daughter in law and what a nice girl she was? So think on the bright side, even without me, soo jin will be here for you and min woo. I’m sure she’ll make a great daughter in law and companion to min woo.”

Angel comforted min woo’s father and forced herself to smile hence building an invisible barrier around herself. It was time she cut herself off for him and his surroundings. She didn’t want to be affected anymore. Stepping away slowly, Angel went up the stairs and retrieved a large bag of luggage.

“Dad, since you already know, I don’t really have to stay anymore. Can you tell min woo for me?”

“I’m not telling him anything.”

Min woo’s father shook his head stubbornly and frowned in her direction. Angel nodded in response and sighed.

“It doesn’t matter, he’ll understand....once he sees.....”

“Sees what?”

“Nothing.....well....I guess I should go now.....”

“You’re really going to leave him?” He asked one more time. Angel dropped her bag and swung her arms around him.

“Dad, I’m so sorry. Tell soo jin to take care of him.” Angel stepped away and wiped the tears off her face. Without another look back, she walked swiftly out of the house and into a coming taxi.

I loved you Lee min woo......I really did......but now that it’s over.....I feel....relieved?

* * * * *

“DAD! WE’RE HOME!!! DAD?”

Min woo shouted and waited expectantly for a reply but when not even a syllable was uttered in reply to his shouts, min woo burst into the living room unable to contain himself. He had thought Angel would be there like she promised to pick them up but after waiting for an hour or so min woo finally gave up and took a taxi home. He figured if she wasn’t there, she would be waiting at home for them.

“Where are they?”

Soo jin muttered in confusion as they couldn’t not sight any form of a human figure in the vast lounge room.

“You’re home...”

A voice travelled from the stairs and down to the living room causing it to be barely audible.

“Dad?”

Min woo stared at the aged man in front of him who seemed especially worn out right then. The grey hair seemed just that tad bit lighter and wrinkles just that tad deeper. Something was definitely wrong.

“Welcome....home....”

Min woo’s father refused to even spare a look in min woo’s direction and walked down the stairs peacefully.

“Where’s Angel? Isn’t she home yet?”

“Yes...she is home. I’m sure she is.”

“Where is she then?”

Min woo looked towards the top of the stairs, in hope of sighting a figure.

“Why are you looking around here for her?”

“What? Where else am I supposed to look?”

Min woo replied baffled.

“I said she was home but what makes you think this is her home?”

An unemotional answer drifted from min woo’s father’s lips. His expression was indecipherable. Min woo began to panic as he sought the meaning behind the words. Where else would be her home? Unless....

“Dad, what happened? Tell me, where is she?”

He grabbed onto his father’s arm and pulled just a bit harder, demanding an answer yet his eyes shone through and his dad knew he was begging to know. But what was the use of telling him now?

“It’s too late min woo. You should let go....”

Min woo’s grip loosened but he knew the ‘let go’ was not aimed at his clutch onto his father’s arm.

Soo jin watched in silence and gradually pieced together the puzzle. She walked slowly up the stairs to Angel and min woo’s bedroom eluding any of the attention that may still have settled on her down there. It wasn’t hard since only Angel’s image filled their minds now. Soo jin thought in despair but smiled all the same. It shouldn’t affect her.

Coming to the slightly ajar door, soo jin slowly placed her hand on it and pushed in trepidation. She didn’t know exactly what it was she was expecting. But once the door was fully opened, soo jin experienced a peculiar sense of the surroundings. Under the normality the room illustrated, there was something very odd. An unexpected gush of wind blew through the open window and carried a fluttering piece of paper towards soo jin, landing gracefully in front of her feet. Intrigued, she picked it up and immediately the large bold text caught her undivided attention. Soo jin took in a sharp breath and failed to believe her eyes.

How could this have happened.....? It wasn’t supposed to end like this.....what am I thinking......how could this.....be the end?

* * * * *

Min woo clutched the papers in his hands tightly and could not stop trembling. His knuckles turned white but his hands gave no sign of wanting to let go. How could she do this to him? After all they’ve been through she could have at least waited for him this one last time.

You just left with everything.....even took your presence away from this house.....is your love for me really not worth waiting just another day?

Min woo thought angrily but when he realised what he was really thinking, he wanted to slap himself.

Lee min woo you jerk....who are you blaming it on now? You took her for granted for years.....all this time you never even truly took time to look at her, understand her, love her.......and now that you’ve finally driven her away......you blame her.....you’re a jerk lee min woo....a jerk......stupid.....jerk.....

Min woo cried out in pain and punched the wall in frustration, trying to shake off the images of Angel in his mind. The wall was now stained with deep shades of red, trickling down slowly, leaving a trail behind. The jolts of pain from his hand was finally sensed by his brain and min woo began to regain some awareness. So it was true, she was gone, but how could he just sit here and let her go without a fight? Wasn’t she worth fighting for?

I can’t just let her slip away......I can’t ask for her forgiveness but at least I still retain the right to expressing myself.....and after all this time......the least I owe her are my true feelings......maybe she has given up.....let go....forgot.....but.....I can’t give up....let go.....forget......because I have never fought.....held on......remembered......

Angel always said life was a gamble.....maybe it’s time I started gambling.......win or lose.....I’ll leave that to fate......something I had never believed in until now.....

* * * * *

For the past few weeks min woo abandoned his company and everything in search of Angel. He contacted every possible person he knew of and tried to trace her down. Min woo often laughed at the limited people he could contact. He knew Angel had an abundant amount of good friends yet when he searched there were only two available numbers that he could call on. How could he have been such a moron? Here he was thinking about her like crazy yet if anyone had asked what he knew about this girl he was ready to die for, other than physical appearances min woo didn’t know of anything else he could possibly say. He didn’t know what her favourite food was, her favourite animal, her favourite number, her favourite piece clothing or even her favourite song. He was deprived of all these little things about her but he had no one to blame but himself.

Brushing his messy hair back with a swift motion of the hand, min woo stared at the computer screen waiting for a reply. His last chance lay in the answer he was waiting for.

Please find her....please.......anything so I can see her again....so I can tell her how I feel......so I can tell her how much she means to me........how much I need her by my side........how much.....I love her......with my heart and soul......I just ask for a chance to tell her.....nothing more.....Guardian Angels above.....help....me......please.......

Cinderella - Angel JJ [chapter 18+19]

Chapter 18

“Oppa........o...ppa......”

Soo jin tried to say between her hysterical sobbing. Min woo shook his head gravely and didn’t know what to say. When she had rang him in the morning and told him to pick her up at the airport, he was overjoyed. But when he saw her pale and tear smeared face, standing alone waiting with her bag, all the joy in his body was emptied within a second. Even though soo jin sounded slightly abnormal over the phone, min woo was at first too happy to perceive such detail for any relevance. The important thing was, soo jin was home and that was all that counted.

“Soo jin....what happened? I only understood bits and pieces when you told me at the airport.......come on...stop crying....”

She looked up into his smiling but tired face and then down again and started to cry even more uncontrollably. Min woo expressed his frustration in a form of a sigh.

“I’m sorry oppa......for causing you so much trouble....it’s just.....I’m....”

“Don’t worry about it....you know I’m always here for you.....now come on....take a deep breath and breathe it out......do you feel any better.....”

Trying another way to stop the flowing tears, soo jin’s cries died down and now only the constant sniffing and fast inhaling could be heard.

“I’m so sorry....really.....but I didn’t know what else to do.....”

“Tell me what happened.....how come Danny didn’t come back with you?”

At the mention of Danny, soo jin’s face darkened considerably and her round and puffy red eyes watered up again. Min woo immediately knew the cause behind this now.

“What did he do?”

Min woo’s tone turned icy and asked soo jin in a demanding and unpredictable manner.

“I don’t know......it was all fine for the first three weeks we were there......he came home really early everyday and we would spend all our spare time together but then....just a week before.....he started coming home late....sometimes......”

Before continuing, soo jin gave min woo an unsettled look. He urged her to go on and gave her an encouraging smile to show her he would always be there.

“.....sometimes.....he would come home drunk and talk nonsense....I never understood what he was talking about and I knew he was experiencing some problems so I didn’t question him and let it be.....I thought.....maybe....he needed some time away from reality once in awhile.....I was sure it was because he was stressed.....”

“....and then what happened....?”

Min woo enquired softly but his voice was missing the usual calm and confident min woo image behind it.

“.....I started getting phone calls....from a girl.....telling me to go back to where I came from....and that Danny was with her now.....she said.......he wanted to dump me but was scared I was going to take all my things with me and kick him out of the house.....she said........that was the reason why he wanted to be with me in the first place.......”

Soo jin broke down into faint sobs as she remembered her life the past few days.

“Did you ask him....? Maybe it was just a misunderstanding....?”

Min woo asked her carefully. He was definitely worried about Danny and soo jin but he never would have thought Danny would be like this. Sometimes he would wonder if Danny was trustworthy enough but when he saw the look in soo jin’s eyes reserved just for him, all his suspicions were thrown to the back of his head. For soo jin’s sake, he wished Danny would surprise and prove min woo’s doubts to be totally unnecessary. Unfortunately, Danny really lived up to the image and maybe even pushed it a little further in min woo’s mind. Min woo wanted to kick himself for agreeing to let her go in the beginning. What was he thinking?

“I did.....just before I got on the plane.....I asked him who she was.....he gave me a name and then remained silent throughout the whole conversation we had......I don’t know anymore......I know how much it would hurt to hear him say hurtful words but I didn’t think it would hurt even more when he wore a silent mask....I wish he could just admit it if it was true....tell me how stupid I’ve been.....laugh in my face.....maybe I would feel better now if he did......but he didn’t.....he just sat there.....not denying anything but not admitting any accusations either.......I don’t understand.....I just don’t get it.....what went wrong? Where did it go wrong? Who went wrong? Oppa......”

Soo jin finally fell into min woo’s arms and laid her heavy head in his warm and inviting chest. She finally let her heavy eyelids fall down and made herself comfortable, ready for a rest. A really long rest, without thinking, seeing or facing anything reality threw at her fractured soul.

Soo jin.....it’s my fault....I should have protected you.....I promised I would....but.....look at you now......it’s alright.....I won’t let you hurt any longer.....I’m here and I’ll guide you through this.....so just sleep....quietly.....don’t think about anything.....leaving everything to me......let me share your pain......it’s my job......

Min woo could hear soo jin’s slowed down and rhythmic breathing now and he was sure she would not budge for a long time. He pulled a blanket up and covered soo jin’s body gently, afraid he would wake her and then tightened his arms around the fragile figure. Resting his head on hers, min woo let soo jin calm down in his caring arms. He provided the best nest for her injured emotional self to heal.

Danny......you asked for it......I’d watch my back if I was you......I will never forgive you for hurting soo jin like this.....never......

Min woo’s eyes turned from affectionate to threatening in the snap of a finger. His face darkened and thoughts swirled around his mind, every dark and dangerous thought revolved around Danny. He provoked min woo’s deepest fears and his inner hatred now penetrated.

* * * * *

Angel waited for a whole night but his figure never appeared in front of her eyes. He was in soo jin’s room from the morning till just a few minutes ago. The sun was rising, initiating another long day ahead. It was just when Angel was pushing herself up from the ground, experiencing a severe numbness in her legs, that min woo opened the door and walked in. His eyes were bloodshot and his face qualified for the zombie family. Sullen, dull and an unhealthy shade of colour painted his face.

When he spotted Angel in front of the bed and still half on the floor struggling to get up, min woo rushed over to lift her up and sit her on their bed. He sat next to her and placed his face in his hands in irritation. It was only when he heard Angel’s voice that he looked up and stared into her eyes.

“Min woo, are you okay?”

Angel bit her bottom lip as soon as those words escaped her mouth. Deep down, she didn’t want to know what was wrong with min woo because it would just cause her to hurt more but her subconscious and truthful self let slip the question when it didn’t even pass her mind. She had no time to assess the problems this question may lead to because somewhere inside, min woo held a place so dear to her that it would take more than just letting go.

“I’m fine....you should worry more about soo jin...”

Min woo replied carelessly and his eyes were filled with images of soo jin. Angel didn’t reply, she didn’t know how to so she just stared at his face, searching in his gaze for signs. She hoped so much that some form of her was still in his mind, even if it was just a flicker that didn’t last a second even, she didn’t want much because she knew he didn’t have a lot to give. She understood, she forgave, and she was forever waiting.

“So....how’s soo jin?”

She asked timidly. Maybe it was because of the feelings she got, or just the meaning behind it but Angel wanted to shun the name soo jin. It’s not that she didn’t care about soo jin, only god knew how much she cared for her. Soo jin’s tears weren’t only tugging at min woo’s heart, hers was aching just as much. The poor girl, what did she do to deserve anything like this?

But Angel was selfish, she was self centred, she wanted her own pain to be soothed away and right now only min woo was capable of such a thing.

“She’s not that great, didn’t stop crying since I first saw her this morning. All because of that Danny.....”

Min woo’s voice trailed off and deepened at the mention of Danny. He didn’t turn around to look at Angel but she didn’t miss the dim and hurtful cloak over his eyes.

“Min woo.....what are you planning....to do?”

She asked him carefully, afraid to hear his answer.

“I don’t know yet.....”

Min woo replied, thinking hard.

“Look min woo.....whatever it is you are planning.....isn’t cheering up soo jin the most important thing right now? You can’t let her continue on like this....it’s not good for her....so just put everything aside for now....okay?”

She knew he wouldn’t forget about Danny so Angel took another approach into the situation and tried to divert all his attention to soo jin and her emotional state at the moment.

“You think so?”

“Who else is she going to listen to? You know how important you are to her. Devote some time to her, listen to what she has to say.....tell her everything’s going to be alright....what she’s feeling now is critical.....you have to help her walk out of this shadow and forget this or at least lessen the pain.....”

She urged, catching onto the glint of hopefulness in his eyes. After what he had seen, min woo couldn’t think about anything else other than revenge. He wanted to take back what soo jin had given to Danny, he wanted to make him suffer like the way soo jin was suffering. No one gets away with hurting his princess. But after hearing what Angel had to say, min woo’s anger softened considerably and his vengeful impulses faded away slightly. Soo jin didn’t need him to beat the hell out of Danny, she only wanted his support and comfort in her time of need. Min woo could tell she still loved him, even if it might have been only a minute amount. Angel was right, she always was. He knew what he should do.

Chapter 19

A few days after soo jin’s arrival back in Seoul, Angel wanted to take some time off and talk to soo jin alone but soo jin would always be locked up in her room by herself. Min woo didn’t let anyone go into soo jin’s room and her food was always made by Angel and then carried up to her room on a tray by min woo. Angel observed the small amount missing every time the tray was sent upstairs and back. Soo jin was obviously not healed.

She hadn’t seen min woo for a few days now but she would always hear him come in around two to three in the morning. He didn’t know but Angel would always wait until he stepped inside the bedroom before closing her eyes and drifting off to bed. She didn’t stay awake to see him, talk to him or ask him anything. It was just simply because she wanted to know he was close before eluding reality.

* * * * *

The morning sun directed it’s warmth into the dining room of the Lee’s mansion and lightened up the house. It was unfortunate the dazzling rays of gold with glittering stars couldn’t light up the spirits of the souls around the dining table.

It was the first time soo jin had come down for breakfast since coming back and Angel was especially careful with her speech and actions, not wanting to cause any flashbacks for soo jin. She had no idea what would trigger soo jin’s tears once again but from the look on soo jin’s face, her emotional state was definitely unstable. She was trying to hold it together but the cringe of her features told Angel her disguise was near to pieces. No one spoke and breakfast continued on quietly until min woo finally cleared his throat and looked up specifically at Angel and his father.

“I have an announcement to make....”

He waited for reactions but when none came, he took up from where he ended the sentence. Angel’s heart jumped slightly but she didn’t show any evidence on her face.

“Um...I really think soo jin needs some time away so I’m taking three days off from tomorrow and we’re going to Hawaii. The sun and fresh air will be good for her-”

His sentence was cut off by a loud clang on the china.

“Ah, sorry....what were you saying? Hawaii? That’s great.....I...love Hawaii....I’m sure soo jin will enjoy it....”

Angel smiled dryly and moved away the fork she had dropped suddenly onto her plate. She didn’t trust herself to hold the fork so it was put aside and Angel diverted her attention to the coffee in front of her.

“We’ll be back on Sunday if everything goes well....and we’re leaving tomorrow at nine. Dad, take care of yourself will you? And Angel....can you pack soo jin’s clothes for her? I’m taking her out now to buy some things and I really don’t want her to move around too much...”

Min woo said looking at her without much expression. Soo jin did not look up during the whole time and chewed at her food delicately, taking all the time in the world. Her eyes held a distant and misty look.

“Yeah.....sure thing....”

Angel replied in monotone and then picked up her latte and walked with her back towards the table to the kitchen. She was calm and in control skin deep, but inside, she wanted to scream and throw a tantrum. She wanted to tell him that it’s her holiday to Hawaii not soo jin’s, she wanted to make him realise that she did care, in fact, she cared alot. She wanted him to be with her on her birthday, to be by her side and celebrate for her with a smile on his face. She wanted him, but none of these emotions were stronger than her determination. They couldn’t tear down the barrier she built around herself and so she watched in silence as min woo stood up and slid his arm around soo jin, guiding her weak self outside the door. She watched them fade away together into the car and didn’t turn back until several minutes after they had completely left her sight. She didn’t want to turn around, she really didn’t, because it felt like as if she was losing him but then again, how was that possible?

.....you can’t lose something you never had......so.....I’m not really losing him am I? I’ve borrowed your min woo oppa for so long and it’s truly been the happiest days of my life when I was with him.....but....I think I should return him to you now soo jin....like I promised.....I would know when I should step back......now....I’m stepping back........

Min woo’s father stared at Angel who had her back facing him and gazing out the wide open door. He sighed and walked away silently with a deep regret.

You’re a great kid......I hope you stay here with him Angel.....maybe you don’t know but he needs you.......more than he thinks......he’ll come around Angel....he will.....because.......he can’t afford losing you........

* * * * *

Dropping the last bag into the taxi, Angel ran back into the house and waited until soo jin and min woo said goodbye to her dad before approaching.

“I’ll pick you two up at the airport on Sunday so don’t worry about calling a taxi ok?”

She asked min woo with a small smile but he only nodded.

“Soo jin, have fun and don’t stress too much. Relax a bit, everything’s going to be fine....now go on....you’re going to be late if you don’t hurry.” She ushered the two into the taxi and waved a last goodbye but as she turned away, her arm was grabbed by min woo.

“Huh? What’s wrong?”

She asked him confused at his action. Min woo’s lips parted again and again but nothing was heard. He wanted to say something and his eyes begged out to her but Angel brushed it off without much thought.

“You’re going to be late....let go...”

She freed herself from his grasp and urged the driver to start the engine. She didn’t stay back to watch them vanish before her eyes this time, she didn’t feel the need. Yet if she had stayed back, she would have seen the pair of eyes staring at her leaving figure.

Angel walked back into the house to grab her bag before leaving for work. Just as she stepped outside, min woo’s father called her to a halt and handed her a small black velvet box.

“Happy Birthday Angel.....”

“Dad...?”

Her eyes widened as the box was placed on her palm.

“What is it? You really didn’t have to....it’s....just a birthday....”

“No I wanted to.....open it...”

Angel took off the small red ribbon tied around the box and took off the lid to reveal a sparkling pink heart shaped diamond ring.

“What....I can’t-”

“No, take it. This ring was min woo’s mother’s. She wanted me to hand it down to our daughter in law when she had passed away. We always thought it would end up with soo jin one day but I guess nothing turns out the way you think.”

Angel smiled truthfully with the pain written across her face like deep wrinkles.

“I admit I really want to accept this ring....you probably know too....but dad....I’m not going to take something that’s not mine anymore....you said you always thought it would end up in soo jin’s hands.....I’m telling you now.....you were right....”

Shaking her head sadly, the box was handed back to min woo’s father. She turned around and bolted away immediately after because she didn’t know if she could restrain herself for any longer. How she longed for the ring, not because of the physical ring, but the meanings held by it. Angel didn’t want to accept something and then lose it again. She was tired.

I’m so sorry dad.....I’m sorry I didn’t accept the ring but.....I don’t think it belongs to me......I’m glad to see that I finally came through and you’re accepting me to be your daughter in law but it doesn’t matter anymore......your wish will come true when soo jin takes back from me this.......Cinderella dream......

I was almost about to believe that our love was true.....the past few weeks have been the happiest days in my life......I thought he finally understood and accepted me....with....love.....but it seems to be all just a dream......it hurts so much because I believed in a fantasy......

I believed when I was handed the dress and slippers....they would be mine forever....I believed when the clock struck 12 I would still remain gracefully posed in the centre of the ballroom.....I believed the prince would take my hand and tell me he has chosen me......I believed......it wasn’t just a fantasy.....

I guess.....I was delusional in the face of something so perfect?

Because....the dress turned back to rags......my long hair fell down back to my shoulders with all the jewels gone.......I clutched my clothing in embarrassment and cringed at the looks present around the ballroom.....the prince......walked away.....

The crystal clear glass slippers were the only things I had left.....sparkling with a diamond shine yet.....I knew.....just because it didn’t disappear.....it didn’t mean it was mine......it’s time I took them off myself and end this dream.......

* * * * *

“What are you doing here?? I demand you step outside this very moment!!”

Hye sung glared at Angel and pretended to be annoyed at her. He pointed to the door and told her to step outside just for the sake of it. Angel didn’t catch the glint in his eyes and tears appeared in her eyes.

Even you don’t want me anymore......

Hye sung took a step back and was shocked at her change of face. He started to panic when Angel turned on her heal and headed outside.

“ANGEL! Hey....”

He ran after her and took hold of her hand. When Angel faced him and stared at his worried face, the tears she was holding back streamed down her face.

“What’s wrong....?”

He asked softly cupping her face in his hands to face him. His thumbs brushed across her cheeks to rid her face of the tears.

“He doesn’t want me......”

Angel burst out and sobbed uncontrollably in front of hye sung. She didn’t care about keeping herself together anymore. What did she have to lose when she already lost everything? Grabbing onto hye sung, she demanded for him to lend her his shoulders for comfort.

“Oppa.....he doesn’t want me.....you don’t want me.....I’m losing everything....oppa....”

Her cries jerked hye sung’s heart uncontrollably. He had never seen Angel lose her sense of self so completely. Letting his sigh escape, hye sung put his arms around her and kept still. He wanted her to let the stress, the pain, and the feelings of emptiness out.

“Shhh....it’s alright.....who said I didn’t want you? I was only joking.....I figured you should be home on your birthday that’s all.....but.....if you want to work then....we can celebrate here for you too.....it’s alright.....don’t worry....of course I want you....”

At the mention of birthday, Angel’s sobs turned faint. Hye sung looked down at the head buried in his right shoulder and smiled.

“You didn’t think I forgot did you? Wait here....”

He asked jokingly and pulled down her arms, then walked briskly back into the café. Angel stared at his back confused. Where was he going? After a few minutes Hye sung emerged in front of her again carrying a massive gift box in both his arms. He handed over the box into Angel’s arms watching her stunned expression.

“What....is it?” She asked hesitantly.

“Open it and find out. Happy Birthday my dear Angel.” Hye sung replied and smiled at her. Angel nodded placing the box on the floor and took the lid off. Inside was another gift box, a size smaller than the first one.

“This is so cliché oppa.....” She taunted, a small smile finally broke free, lighting up her face. Hye sung breathed out a sigh of relief and scratched his head.

“I was never the creative type anyway....”

Angel kept busy taking out boxes smaller and smaller from the previous one. At last she came down to a small delicate green maple leaf shaped box. She lifted the box out and eased off the lid to reveal a glass crystal figurine. The figurine’s size fitted perfectly on the palm of Angel’s hand and as it twinkled in the sunlight, colours of the rainbow reflected off it’s flawlessly cut surfaces.

“It’s beautiful......thank you...”

“My pleasure....I designed it myself too.....as long as you like it....”

Angel looked up startled.

“You.....designed it?”

He nodded.

She looked back at the figurine to inspect it in detail. It was the figure of a small Angel, kneeling on a cloud with her wings stretched out. The Angel had long hair that blew freely in the wind and her head was looking down at something that was on her palms. Angel squinted and brought the figure even nearer to see what it was and when she finally made out the unknown object, she was shocked. On the palms of the Angel was a tiny pair of glass slippers. They were tinted with a soft jade green which could be seen only in certain angles of lighting.

Biting at her lower lip, her view turned blurry again.

“Thank you so much oppa.....I love it....”

She whispered and clutched the figure tightly in her hands. Hye sung stood still and observed her, saying nothing. When a light breeze blew through the gap between them, his hand brushed against Angel’s cheek and the hair around her face was swept back behind her ear. She stared at his face, using silence as a reply to him. He said nothing, she replied nothing, yet they were communicating. It was a form of mutual understanding that prevented them from getting hurt. Nothing needs to be said to be understood, some things were better left unsaid. Silence is golden, silence is peace.

Hye sung deliberately decided to let her be and not ask, it wasn’t like he didn’t know what reason it was behind her tears. As long as she knew he was here when she needed him, there was nothing else he could do for her.

Cinderella - Angel JJ [chapter 16+17]

Chapter 16

“Angel....? Angel....ANGEL!”

“Huh?”

Hye sung shook his head and gave her a stern look.

“If you don’t turn off that water, we can have a bath in there later.”

“OH.....no...”

Angel looked down at the sink which was filling up consistently to her surprise. She quickly turned it off and took out the plug at the bottom.

“Oops....”

“Hey are you alright? You’ve been staring stupidly at the window for the past decade.” He asked.

“Hmm....yeah I’m alright. Just thinking about soo jin....it’s been a month since she’s left....I wonder how she is...”

“I’m sure she’s fine or she would have called right?”

“Yeah....”

Angel nodded without much thought and continued to stare. The day was slowly fading away and she was getting extremely restless.

“So how are things with you and min woo?”

“Same same....you know how it is....”

But a small smile crept across her face. Nothing she had expected happened after soo jin’s departure. Min woo was obviously worried but other than that everything seemed normal. He was back to his caring husband image and now they had much more time to themselves. In fact, after work today Angel was planning to go to his office and surprise him with her hand made lunchbox. He called her during lunch to say that he would be working overtime so she went home for an hour or so to prepare his dinner.

“That’s good.....hey how about you run along now....there aren’t many customers anyway...”

Hye sung knew why she was restless and wanted to stop her from sighing and gazing at the clouds outside. He dropped his cloth and ushered her out of the café, half dragging and half pushing. He took her purse and lunchbox along with him and stuffed it in her hands when she was outside.

“Hey hey hey.......watch it.....shin hye sung...”

Without another word he went back in and closed the door, and took out the closed sign while he was at it. She shook her head and smiled at him.

“Thanks!”

Angel turned on her heel and sped down the road to find a taxi. She couldn’t wait to see him.

Why do your emotions still pull so instantly at my heart......? Even Lee min woo seems to be getting over soo jin......so....why can’t I....get over you....?

* * * * *

“Mrs Lee?”

“Is min woo here? I came to bring him dinner....”

“Mr Lee is at a meeting...I’m not sure when he’ll be back....”

“Oh....”

Angel pouted and her eyes darted around the place, not knowing what to do. She hadn’t expected him to not be here.

“Well....how about if you wait in Mr Lee’s office? I’ll make a call for you and tell him you’re here...”

“Really? Thanks Mrs Park.”

Angel smiled again and went into min woo’s overly large office. It was probably nearly as large as her old apartment. Angel looked around for a place to sit and finally decided to curl up on his bulky black leather chair that didn’t look slightly as comfortable as it should have been. Taking a seat, she propped her bag along with his lunchbox on his chaotic desk. Grinning, she slowly and carefully started to reorganize his papers. Whilst clearing off a whole layer of A4 files off his desk and piling them up to one side, Angel noticed an open black schedule diary on the bottom of everything. To her curiosity, she flipped through a few pages and looked at his busy days with a disapproving look. One day he would work himself to death. As Angel made up her mind to talk to him about loosening up on the overwork and was about to close the book, something caught her eye. Everything else she had seen was in black ink pen but what caught her attention was a page filled with large red and bold writing. As she read the reminder min woo wrote on the days Wednesday through to Friday of one week, the sides of her lips curled upwards and she could feel her eyes moistening.

Angel’s birthday and late honeymoon....3 days off and take her to Hawaii. BUY PRESENT!

Before angel could do anything else, she heard min woo outside talking to his secretary. She closed the diary hastily and waited for him to come in. The smile on her face didn’t fade.

* * * * *

“Hey what are you doing here?”

Min woo came in and kissed her on the forehead.

“I came to deliver your dinner and I organized your table while I was waiting....how could you find your way through all that junk...”

“I’m used to it....come here....”

Min woo placed his briefcase down and motioned her to sit on the sofa on the side of his office with him. He opened up the lunchbox and dug in.

“Slow down slow down...you don’t have to share it with anyone....so don’t choke...”

She patted his back and told him to slow down on the chomping of the food but he only smiled and went on eating. Not even 5 minutes after, Angel’s lunchbox was wiped clean and min woo held Angel in his arms, almost about to fall asleep on her shoulder.

“Lee min woo...you’re so heavy...get off me....”

She tried to worm her way out of his grip but he only ended up tightening it and pulling her even closer.

“I have to get home....dad’s waiting for dinner...come on min woo....”

But he still did not budge.

“Forget about dad.....” He murmured.

“Get off or I’ll whack you...”

She threatened but he took no notice of her.

“....OUCH!!! HEY...are you trying to kill your husband?” Min woo shouted and wanted to get up and restrict her once again but she was already at the door with bag in hand.

“Don’t come home too late.....bye....”

And she was out the door and bolting for the lift. Min woo only rubbed his sore head and glared evilly at the door.

Wait till I get my hands on you......ouch...ouch....my head......

Chapter 17

“...Min woo....min woo.......”

Suddenly Angel bolted up from her dream and sat still breathing heavily on the bed. She could feel the sweat dripping down the sides of her face.

....what....was that a dream...... “

Images flashed across her eyes one by one, replaying the dream again. She was with min woo and then he suddenly disappeared, she looked all around for him but he kept appearing in different places and whenever she came close he would escape from her hands. She ran around her place looking all over for him but would be just a step in front of her, never too far yet she was never able to catch him either, until finally when she did manage to grab onto his hand, he turned into a wisp of smoke and vanished. She was left standing there, holding onto thin air.

It’s not true..........it’s just a dream.......

She kept telling herself and when she finally regained full consciousness, she looked to where min woo should have been sleeping for signs of comfort. The other half of the bed was empty and when she felt the sheets and found that it was cold.

Where is he.........?

Getting out of bed, Angel walked to the windows and pulled the blinds back to let in the rays of morning sunshine. Taking a deep breath, she tried to shake off the feelings of unease and discomfort. Turning around to walk to the bathroom, Angel saw a white piece of paper on her dressing table and picked it up.

I’ll be back later....going to pick up soo jin at the airport....explain to you tonight....

Angel’s hand shook as she placed the piece of paper down and stared at the mirror in front of her. The reflection of the white washed and bloodless face scared her.

Why do I feel so nervous.....and...soo jin? What happened.....? She never called to tell us.......why is she coming back in such a rush......?

Questions whirled around her head but none matched themselves with the answers Angel was looking for. She quickly washed and dressed herself before hurrying down the stairs to see if dad was awake. She had a lot of asking to do. An anxious feeling rooted at the pit of her stomach and no matter what she did, it could not be dug up. She didn’t know what was wrong or what was happening but she just felt panicky. Maybe she was overreacting over nothing but she couldn’t stop herself.

The dream.......what does it mean.......?

* * * * *

“Dad!! Did you see min woo leave this morning?”

Angel asked as soon as she arrived in front of the dining table where min woo’s father was sitting. His eyes were staring straight ahead and Angel’s words passed his ears without him moving a feature slightly.

“...DAD!...”

Angel shouted in front of him again and waved her hand in his face.

“Stop that! I can see....”

He slapped away her hand annoyed. Angel brought her hand back and looked at him carefully.

“Is there....something wrong....? Is it...soo jin....?”

“I don’t know.....”

He shook his head helplessly.

“Min woo left a note saying he was picking her up now.....”

“Yeah....she called him in the morning and he rushed out....he looked really worried but when I asked him he said he didn’t know either. I’m worried about soo jin, we never heard from her since she left and now she’s suddenly back. I can’t help but think there’s something wrong....”

He said before turning away from Angel and walked back up to his room, leaving her standing there confused and unable to speak.

She’s really back....what happened.....?

* * * * *

The rattling of keys and turning of the doorknob sent Angel bolting down the stairs. Before she could reach the bottom of the stairs, min woo opened the door and walked in with a sobbing girl and suitcase. Her head was down and sniffing but before Angel could ask any questions, min woo’s father already opened his mouth.

“SOO JIN??!! What happened?”

“Dad, she’s really tired. Let her go up to bed and I’ll explain to you everything later.”

With that min woo dropped the suitcase and walked soo jin slowly up the stairs with his arm around her shoulders and whispered in her ear once in awhile to comfort her. Angel watched everything in silence and stood still half way down the stairs. She felt a tearing feeling in her heart but nothing else. As min woo and soo jin walked past her up the stairs, she finally found her voice and turned around to halt them at step.

“Soo jin....what’s wrong....? What happened...?”

“Unnie.......”

Soo jin broke into tears before she could say anything else and min woo sent Angel an angered look before throwing down a few icy words.

“She’s not ready to talk. Stop asking her about it. Do you want her to hurt even more?” He spoke sharply and looked at Angel as if she was the cause of soo jin’s pain and tears. Angel fell back slightly surprised. She was bewildered at his unfeeling eyes and distant tone.

“No....I didn’t mean....”

Angel stepped away from the wall and closer to soo jin to say sorry but soo jin’s sobbing became worse and worse that min woo suddenly jerked and led soo jin up the stairs quickly.

”Ah......”

A cry sprouted from Angel as min woo’s shoulders hit into her and forced her already unbalanced body backwards. Angel slid wobbly down a couple of stairs and finally fell near the bottom of the staircase. She felt her eyes water but forced herself to not shed any tears in front of min woo, biting on her lower lip to stop any sounds from her mouth. Only until she became aware of the salty taste on her lip that she let go and took a deep breath in to loosen the tense emotions bottling up. As she struggled to get up, using the wall for support, min woo and soo jin were already in soo jin’s room and the slam of the door notified Angel of this. She looked up at the empty staircase and experienced a rush of vulnerability. Min woo had not even turned his head around when she fell.

I don’t know what to think....what to feel.......I don’t even know if I can still think and feel.......the way you looked at me.....the way you spoke to me.....someone tell me what just happened......someone explain to me what I should do right now......I’m numb.....dead......lifeless.......the pain in my legs and stomach.....they were there a minute ago......but it’s gone now.......I can’t feel......

* * * * *

Angel slowly pulled herself up straight and wiped away a relentless trickle down her cheek fiercely. She trudged slowly back up to her room and immediately sank down to the floor, using the bed as a backrest. Her body felt limp and sight blurry. Sitting there motionless, she wanted to move but couldn’t. She wanted to think but couldn’t. She wanted to cry but the tears that were forced back never revealed themselves again. The sides of the curtains were lifted up slightly by the light breeze rushing in through the window. Feeling the breeze brush past her, a shiver was sent down her spine. The breeze seemed extra icy, just like the way she was feeling inside. Staring out the window, nothing seemed to catch her view. She didn’t know what she was looking at, maybe she was looking for something but the outlook was bleak. The whole world changed in a split second. She longed for the bright and pleasant sun beams shining in through the window. She missed the warmth it brought to her when it lit up the room. Angel could not find a trace of the realm she was in just a few hours ago. Nothing materialized in front of her when she sought out to find the point where she strayed away. She was lifted up to heaven and thrown down back to hell ruthlessly. She regretted ever having the chance to take a glimpse of heaven, maybe if she didn’t know beyond the living hell she was in, it wouldn’t hurt as much now.

To love and to lose is better than to have not loved at all.....I keep telling myself that....but....why don’t I relate.....is it really better to have loved and lost? Can anyone seriously endure this much hurt......can I tolerate anymore? Do I.....do I want to suffer any more than I have already suffered......after all.....I don’t know whether it’s really worth it anymore......

I loved you so much min woo.....yet just when I thought I was getting close to you.....you push me away brutally.....all that I’ve given to you....all that I’ve given up for you.....isn’t it enough? How much more from me do you want.....because.....I don’t know how much more I have to give......just like the words in that song......I have given you everything yet I still ask you if that’s enough......I don’t think I have more than everything to give......I don’t think I want to risk anymore.....

Because you know what.....that bet.....the gamble......I’m fighting a losing battle.....maybe it’s time.....to say.....I lost......totally, utterly, without mercy.....everything......gone......

Angel sat there unmoving and oblivious to her surroundings and ticking of the clock. By the time she had regained awareness, it was already dark outside. She listened for any movements outside and downstairs but the house was so still that the rustling of the leaves outside could be heard. She didn’t know how long she had been in the room but it didn’t matter to her. Nothing mattered to her anymore. Angel decided to wait for min woo in the same silence she had just experienced. Not wanting to think, speak, look or feel, Angel rested her head back and closed her eyes. She waited for him to come back, to do the thinking, speaking, looking and feeling. She expected him to explain something, to explain anything. She needed him to comfort her because she was tired, worn out, shattered in pieces and the funny thing was, she didn’t even know why.