You look tense, babe. You know I don't like that. Relax for me, will you?
Yes I know how much you don’t like it when I tense up… So let me ask you something. Do you trust me?
Trust you? Of course I do, babe. I've never doubted your loyalty to me. So, what's this about?
Well my dear loving father wants me to marry someone else which would mean you and I would break up.
leans forward, placing his hand on StarfishEnigma's cheek Baby, don't worry. We'll find a way to make sure that never happens.
That’s why I need to know if you trust me because If you trust me then you’ll listen to me. Can you do that?
smiles sweetly Of course, babe. I trust you completely. What do you have in mind?
Then please listen to me okay? My father wants me to get married to a man my age and have kids soon because apparently being childless at my age isn’t ideal even though I’m only 22! And he doesn’t understand that I want to travel and experience life before settling down! So he wants me to give up everything for some random person he found for me… and it hurts! Because I don’t know if I can just let go of the things I want and dreams I have!
leans back, his expression turning cold That asshole thinks he can control your life? No one tells you what to do, babe. We'll show him who's in charge.
I don’t want any trouble though. I just want to be able to do what makes me happy!
smirks Don't worry, babe. I'll handle this situation. Just leave it to me.
Are you sure you’re okay with not getting married and having children?
takes StarfishEnigma's hand and squeezes it gently Babe, our happiness is all that matters. I don't care about getting married or having children.
Really? Because if you truly meant that then you wouldn’t mind staying here with me instead of going off to become a Kpop idol. Because that’s what you want to do. You wanted to be famous, to perform in front of thousands of people. And I respect that. But you also have to respect my dreams and wants too.
pauses for a moment, his expression softening Babe, you're right. I've been so focused on my own dreams that I forgot to consider yours.
And I shouldn’t just give up on them just because of my father! That’s not fair! And I don’t want to lose you or our relationship either. But I also don’t want to live in regret because I didn’t follow my dreams! It’s hard because all my life my father wanted a man for me to marry and provide for me while I stayed home and had babies and did house work! That’s not who I am though! That’s not what I want for myself!
stands up, determination in his eyes StarfishEnigma, listen to me. We won't let anyone control our lives.
grabs StarfishEnigma's face gently, looking deeply into their eyes No buts, babe.
Ok… I trust you. I love you, Jaehyun.
smirks Trust me, babe. I've got a plan to deal with your father and make sure you can pursue your dreams.
So your plan includes running away together? Because that’s what I’m thinking of doing. I can get a job over seas where no one knows me or my father.
laughs softly Running away sounds exciting, babe, but I've got a better idea. How about we confront your father together?
Are you sure? Because if we confront him he might disown me or worse! Or he could banish me from Korea!
leans in closer, a determined look in his eyes Babe, I know it's risky, but I believe in us. We'll face your father together and stand up for ourselves. We won't let anyone dictate our lives or tear us apart.
You’re right. Let’s go confront him! I’m tired of living in fear and being treated like a puppet!
grabs StarfishEnigma's hand tightly That's the spirit, babe. We're going to face your father together and show him that we're unstoppable.
Alright then. Let’s go. Should I bring anything? Maybe some of my clothes in case I want to stay for awhile. And definitely my passport and any money I have.
nods Good idea, babe. Pack your essentials, including your passport and any cash you have.
goes to their bedroom, grabs their passport, wallet and puts some money in a bag then comes out again All set. I’m ready when you are.
grabs his phone and starts typing I'm going to call a trusted friend who can help us navigate this situation.
Who are you going to call? What does he do for a living?
smirks My friend is a successful lawyer. He specializes in cases involving family disputes and power struggles.
Really? That’s great! claps hands
dials the number and waits for the call to connect Hello, is this Mr. Lee? It's Jaehyun. I need your help with a matter of utmost importance.
Wow I’m glad you have a good connection.
speaks on the phone with Mr. Lee, outlining the situation and seeking his advice Yes, I understand the risks involved, but I believe we have a strong case. I need your guidance on how to proceed. Thank you for your time, Mr. Lee. We'll wait for your call.
This is all happening so fast.
ends the call and turns to StarfishEnigma Babe, Mr. Lee believes in our cause and is willing to help us.
Is he coming here to talk more or should we meet him somewhere?
smirks Mr. Lee wants to meet us at a discreet location to discuss the next steps. He'll give us more information once we're there.
Okay. Where is this location and how long until we get there?
checks his watch The meeting is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. We'll have to leave early to make sure we arrive on time.
Ok. So it’s going to be early tomorrow then. Are we taking your car or should I drive?
grins mischievously Why don't we take a little detour on our way to the meeting? I know a secluded spot where we can have some alone time.
Oh really? smiles Sounds fun. Can I bring my blanket?
laughs softly Of course, babe. I'll make sure to pack a cozy blanket for our little adventure.
Perfect! After the meeting we can spend some romantic time together away from everyone else.
pulls StarfishEnigma into a passionate kiss I can't wait to make unforgettable memories with you, babe.