Chapter 33, The Finale

It was a beautiful day.

Serene.

Peaceful.

Jessica fiddled with her necklace as she sat by the window. Gazing out into the bright blue sky, she seeked solace in the soft and sweet chirps of the birds that revelled in the sunlight.

(I remember this view)

(I remember this room)

(And the many times I came here)

(I would use studying as an excuse)

(Just to see you)

(And I would doze off on this bed)

(Because I know you’ll be watching)

She sat in deep thought as the sunlight glistened the tears in her eyes. Until, a knock on the door garnered her attention.

“Jessica?”

It was a kind voice. A kind voice distinctive to the Kwons. Today, the loud Mrs Kwon carried a different tone to her voice. It was gentle and warm, and it resembled one person;

Kwon Yuri.

(It feels as if 9 years ago was just yesterday)

“Silly.” the lady approached Jessica and locked her in a tight embrace. “Don’t cry.”

(The bittersweet yesterday that I’ll never forget)

The comfort which Mrs Kwon brought almost caused Jessica to crumble, but with a deep breath, she decided to fight against it. She wouldn't cry. Not today. Not anymore. Yuri wouldn't like it.

Jessica nodded as she broke off the embrace and attempted to blink the tears away.

Mrs Kwon smiled kindly and swept Jessica’s bangs away from her face. “It’s almost time, my dear. No more tears.”

The kind smile. That genuine personality. This lady reminded her of Yuri too much.

Jessica nodded and looked down, finally smiling as she looked at the little blue broach.

(And from today…)

-----

“지쳐있던 가슴이...”

“YA.”

“…다시 숨쉬고…”

“YA!!!”

“가난해진 마음이…”

“KWON YURI!!!”

The girl who had been prancing back and forth in the kitchen looked at the shikshin and frowned. Taking off her earphones, she asked, “Did you say something?”

Sooyoung sighed and rubbed her forehead. “Can you just sit down? You’re making all of us anxious.”

Yuri glared at the tall shikshin, put back one of her earphones, held her iPod Touch tightly in one hand and then continued pacing up and down.

“영원토록 이렇게 너의 손잡고 같이 걷고 싶어!!” she belted out loudly.

Yoona broke into her alligator laugh at Yuri's off-tune singing. “Give her a break, Sooyoung. It’s not like Yuri to be cool.”

“I heard that, Im Yoona.”

Yoona continued giggling before getting off the kitchen counter. Walking towards Yuri, she yanked out the earphones, confiscated the iPod Touch from her hands and dragged her towards the hall. “Go get ready.”

“Give that back! I need it to calm my nerves!” Yuri whined.

“Oh just shut up and get married, Kwon Yul.” Sooyoung scolded as she tagged along.

“Oh my! Don't you girls look hot?” Sunny exclaimed as her eyes met the tall trio. “Especially you, Yuri.” she approached the taller girl and ruffled her hair.

“Don’t mock me, Soonkyu. I’m still waiting for my hair to grow back.” Yuri pouted as she messed up her dark short hair. “And I really should have worn a dress. I’m a pretty girl!”

"Maybe, if you still had your hair. Right now you're just ManYul." Yoona shook her head and sighed as she fixed Yuri's hair. “Don’t you trust Sica’s taste?”

Yuri sighed, half-reminiscing about how Jessica had reacted the first time she tried the suit on. One word: SPAZZ.

“Jessica's right. It’s a good choice to go with the suit. I’m totally digging your new look.” Sunny spoke with admiration as she continued checking out the taller girl.

Somewhere behind Yuri, a pair of eyes had been shooting daggers throughout.

“I-I’ll cut my hair short too.”

At that instant, the 3 heads turned towards the skinny shikshin.

“W-what.”

Simultaneously rolling their eyes, Yoona and Yuri walked away while Sunny ran over to Sooyoung. “You would?” she asked as she grabbed the taller girl’s arms.

“Yea. If that’s what you like.” Sooyoung replied coolly, like it didn't matter.

"You know..." Sunny smiled blissfully as she reached up to touch Sooyoung’s hair. “I’ll like it even more if you let me cut your hair…”

“WHAT??” Sooyoung exclaimed, before clearing her throat and resuming her cool act. “I mean, do you even have experience?“

“Hmmm?” Sunny arched her eyebrows, tilted her head and pouted at the shikshin. Aegyo attack.

Sooyoung gulped, suddenly feeling more vulnerable by the second. “S-sure. If that’s what you like.”

Sunny smiled as she continued fiddling with Sooyoung’s hair. "I'll shave off this side... And here...”

"And maybe here..."

OMGAWD, my hair!

-----

“Yuri Yuri!!” Taeyeon approached the girl with a face that screamed excitement. “I managed to sneak a shot of Sica!!” she exclaimed as she held up her cellphone.

Yuri's eyes widened. “Really?? Show me!!”

“Not so fast, Tete.” Tiffany had intercepted and conveniently grabbed the phone from Taeyeon’s outstretched hand. Sighing, she said, “Jessi was right. You ARE Yuri’s little spy.”

Taeyeon pouted as Tiffany confiscated her phone. The latter then walked up to Yuri and adjusted her tie. “Be patient, handsome Yuree.”

Yuri smiled sheepishly and nodded.

“But I can assure you one thing. The moment you lay eyes on her, you'll be thanking every God in this world."

Somehow, Tiffany’s comment only made Yuri more nervous. Frowning, Yuri groaned and fell back on the couch, bouncing up and down on it. “Awesome. As if being paralysed by nervousness is not enough, I'm gonna be blinded by her gorgeousness later. Can I see Sica please?? Just for a little while?” she begged.

“Sit still.” Yoona pushed the girl down on the couch by her shoulders. “You’re being embarrassing.”

Tiffany chuckled. “You’ll get your wife in no time, love mush. Now excuse me while I head to the back to ensure that everything’s perfect for the wedding.” she said. Right before leaving the hall, she stopped in front of Taeyeon and smoothened out her suit. “My handsome Tete.”

Taeyeon gulped and stared at Tiffany in her pretty bridesmaid dress as the latter walked off. She then settled comfortably on the couch beside Yuri and sighed. “Because of you, I now have to don a suit for my wedding.”

“Yea Yuri. Because of you, all of us are wearing suits. This is unfair; why are Tiffany and Sunny the only ones exempted?” Yoona complained as she tugged on her shirt. It was getting warm.

"Sica's brilliant idea." Yuri replied.

“Because they’re the wives.” Taeyeon added sarcastically. “Looks like you’re destined to be a seobang too, Yoong.”

“NO WAY!”

“Dun… dun… dun dun…” Taeyeon began her rendition of Richard Wagner's “Bridal Chorus” with much enthusiasm.

“Dun… dun… dun dun…”

“Arghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh…” Yuri whined. “You’re not helping!”

“Relax. I’ll probably feel the same way when it’s my turn. Set a good example today, Kwon Yul.” the shorter girl joked.

Yuri narrowed her eyes at Taeyeon upon hearing her comment.

“Unnie!”

“Oh good! You’re here.” Taeyeon stood up and approached the girl who had just entered the house. “I’ll bring you to the back.”

“Okay.” the girl said. Turning to an anxious Yuri and a curious Yoona, she smiled politely and gave a little bow. “You look good, Yuri unnie.”

Yuri looked up at her and smiled back. “Do a good job for me later, yea?”

“I'll try my best.”

As Taeyeon ushered the girl to the backyard, the inquisitive Yoona immediately settled beside Yuri on the couch. “Who was that??”

“Taengoo’s sister. When Sica walks out later she's gonna… OMGAWD. Even the thought of it is killing me!!” Yuri scratched her head in frustration as she stood up. “I can't wait any longer!! I need Sica, and don’t try to stop me.”

And Yoona didn’t. As Yuri made her way up the stairs, she too, left the couch, but in a different direction - towards the kitchen. Scouring the area for something to soothe the itch in her mouth, she eagerly reached for the upper cabinet when she remembered that it was Yuri’s little treasure trove of snacks.

Until something distracted her; the sweet, sonorous melody of the piano.

Approaching the window that looked out towards the patio, Yoona listened intently, finding herself gradually drowning in the harmony as she closed her eyes.

“Yoong.”

She was almost annoyed with the intrusion. Turning around, she stared at the shikshin and put a finger to her lip. “Shh...”

“Why are you spacing out by the—“

“Keep quiet and just listen, Sooyoung.”

Sooyoung did as she was told. After several seconds, she walked over and opened the cabinet Yoona was previously reaching for. It opened with a loud creak.

“Not bad, but I’m hungry!” she declared before grabbing a pack of chips. Loudly ripping it open, she stuffed a bunch of chips into her mouth and began munching. "Do you know Bunny's gonna cut my hair? I'm screwed." she spoke with her mouth full.

Yoona sighed, frustrated with the ruckus Sooyoung was making. “Seriously, Sooyoung. You need to work on your romance department.” she commented before walking out of the kitchen.

Sooyoung scoffed and continued munching on her chips as the girl walked out. “Weirdo. You never even paid attention when Yuri played the piano.”

-----

Stomping up the stairs and down the hallway, Yuri stopped by her room door. Recognizing that behind this barrier was a beautiful lady who was getting ready to marry her only propelled her into nerve wreck overdrive.

Taking a deep breath, she knocked on the door.

“Who’s that?” a voice from within asked. It was Sunny.

“It’s me. I want to see my wife.”

"You’re not allowed to. By the way, I'm being Jessica's messenger. You're not even supposed to hear her voice.” Sunny replied.

Yuri groaned and pounded on the door. “Just let me see her-- your face, Sicaaaaa!”

“You can't, because I just found out that you're in love with Sunny; pretty, sexy, funny Sunny-- OWW!! That really hurts, Jessica! You can't take a joke?" Sunny exclaimed from behind the door.

Yuri frowned. "Huh?"

She could hear Sunny clearing her throat. “No. Jessica says no.”

Yuri hung her head down in defeat. “But…”

“Go get ready, she says. Yea Yuri, if you want your wife, you’ll just have to wait. There's no getting through to a girl without a sense of humor. This is Sunny speaking for herself by the way. Are you sure you wanna marry her? She's-- OWW!!”

“Kwon Yul!” a voice sounded down the hallway.

Yuri turned over just in time to see the owner of the voice run towards her and then pounce on her back. It almost made her jump in fright.

“What are you doing here?! You’re supposed to be waiting downstairs!” the girl said as she began shoving Yuri towards the stairs.

“Stop pushing me!” Yuri yelled. “And this is MY house, Kim Hyoyeon. I can be anywhere I want.”

“But this is MY wedding. I mean, MY responsibility to get you two married.” the girl stated as she continued pushing Yuri to the stairs.

“What are you doing, Kim Hyoyeon! She just recovered not long ago!” an audible voice came from the room.

"Hee." Yuri smiled immediately at the sound of that voice; that sweet, nasal quality of the voice that she’ll never forget. Inevitably, hearing Jessica's voice activated Yuri's full spazz mode.

“She seems perfectly healthy and strong to me!” Hyoyeon yelled back as she frowned in disgust at Yuri's sudden switch. "Oh! And have you guys prepared the 4 tokens? Something old?"

"Check." Yuri responded as she took out the eraser from her pocket.

"You're kidding." Hyoyeon said. "An eraser that belongs to a 10 year old?"

Yuri glared at Hyoyeon. "This here, has accompanied us throughout the past 9 years, my dear wedding planner. It is also my little good luck charm. I survived through a brain surgery with it." she smiled as she tossed it in the air and caught it.

Hyoyeon was convinced. "Okay then. Uhh what's next, something new?"

"My haircut's new. And so is the suit."

"What??" Hyoyeon exclaimed, only to find Yuri still preoccupied with the eraser. She sighed. "Okay fine whatever works. Something borrowed?"

"Sica borrowed some hair accessory from Tiffany." Yuri said as she continued playing catch with the eraser. "And as for blue, she has that broach that Grandma Lee gave. She says it's super special and has like... magic powers or something. I don't know, the girl reads too many books."

"Wow." Hyoyeon folded her arms and arched an eyebrow. "You guys really can't wait to get married, huh? Give me something to do here will you?"

"It's all Sica, my friend. It's all Sica." Yuri said as she gazed towards the room down the hallway. Taking a deep breath, the girl composed herself, turned to Hyoyeon and grinned. “I’m gonna get married to Jessica Jung!!! Pretty, sexy, funny Jessica Jung!!!” she declared as she skipped down the stairs.

As the girl disappeared from her sight, Hyoyeon shook her head at the love mush and pondered; I've seen so many couples get married, but these two...

Thoroughly impressed with YulSic, she then walked towards Yuri’s room and knocked on the door.

“Jessica, it’s time. I’ll get Grandma Lee.”

-----

“KKAB YUL!!!”

“Mom! Did you manage to see Sica just now??” Yuri exclaimed as her mother stomped towards her and lifted her up in a hug; the Mama Kwon Bear Hug.

"Yes, my dear." she said as she put Yuri down.

"So??" Yuri inquired, hoping for a photograph, a detailed desciption; just something.

Mrs Kwon pondered for a moment, before replying, "Beautiful."

Yuri's jaw dropped. "That's it?"

"What do you mean?"

"That's it? No photographs, nothing? You're my spy, Mom! Where's my intel??"

Mrs Kwon frowned. "Well that's my detailed report for you, Yul. Beautiful is a BIG word. In the dictionary--"

Yuri shook her head and groaned. "I'm dying here."

"Well you nearly did, thanks to them." Mrs Kwon spoke grudingly as she looked behind Yuri.

Yuri turned back in curiosity. The Jung Family had made their entrance and was strutting towards them; Jung-esque style. To any onlooker, it almost resembled a final showdown of the Kwon-Jung family feuds.

“Bless your big heart for inviting them, Yuri.” Mrs Kwon faked a big smile on her face as they drew nearer.

Yuri laughed. “Aww c’mon, Mom. Life goes on.”

“Fine.” She stepped forward with that big smile on her face and raised a hand out. “It’s so nice to finally see you again, Mr and Mrs Jung.”

Mr Jung stepped forward to receive her handshake. “Likewise.”

“And oh! Is that Jessica’s little sister?” Mrs Kwon approached the girl who was accompanied by Amber. “Oh you two look so sweet together. Your parents aren’t giving you problems, I hope?”

“Mom!” Yuri retorted.

Mr Jung laughed it off. “Not anymore, I’m sure.” he said, amused by Mrs Kwon's directness.

“Hmmm. Looks like we’ll be having an interesting chat later on.” Mrs Kwon said, silently pleased. “But for now, we have a wedding to attend.”

"We sure do." Mr Jung smiled as he led his wife to their side of the aisle. The two families settled in their respective seats thereafter, on opposite sides of the aisle.

“Yuri unnie.” Krystal called out.

“Yes, my pretty little sister?” Yuri said as she checked out the girl, finding bits of semblance between her wife and the former.

“You’re lucky Sis isn’t here, she’ll probably pulverize you.” Krystal scolded as she slapped Yuri on the arm. “Anyway, I wanted to thank you.”

“For?” Yuri asked.

Krystal reached out for Amber’s hand and smiled. “She wants to thank you for making Mr Jung realize what’s most important.” Amber said.

“You really paved the road for us, Yuri unnie.” Krystal added.

“It’s all thanks to Sica.” Yuri shook her head and smiled. “It was all her.”

“Either way, thank you.” Amber said sincerely. “And congratulations on your wedding.”

Yuri thanked the couple as they made their way to their seats. Making her way to the front of the aisle, she observed her little wedding setup; simple, elegant, sincere, and full of effort. She smiled as she remembered how Jessica had insisted on the white roses, how she had painstakingly chosen the perfect chairs, and how she had made sure that every single detail, down to the tablecloth used for the reception, was taken care of.

(It’s really all you, Sica. You’ve done so much all these years...)

(9 years ago… I would never dream that I’d be marrying you right here)

(But today…)

-----

(Gentle knock on the door)

"Yuri, you should be downstairs by now!!" Sunny shouted through the door as she tidied up Jessica's hair.

"I-it's me."

"Sunny, open the door." Jessica ordered.

Sunny did as she was told, only to be frozen to the ground when she saw the figure behind it. "H-hello! M-my name is S-sunny... We've seen each other a f-few times before..." she raised a hand out.

The girl smiled politely and returned her handshake. "Park Hyomin. It's nice to meet you. I remember you."

"Y-you do?" Sunny asked, eyes as bright as the sun. If there was one person in the world who could make the usually composed Sunny crumble like that, it was the celebrity standing right in front of her now.

Hyomin nodded. "Thank you for supporting us. We'll be having our first concert soon, I'll ask Yuri to pass the tickets to everyone."

"G-great!!" Sunny shrieked as she stepped out of the room, totally starstruck. "I-I'm going downstairs, Jessica... You girls h-have a good talk yea?" she said as she closed the door. "OMGAWD!! I shook her hand!!"

Jessica and Hyomin both chuckled.

"Jessica..." Hyomin walked closer to the blonde. "You look beautiful."

"Thank you." Jessica said. "You look beautiful too." she returned the compliment.

"Yuri is fortunate to be marrying you." Hyomin smiled at the bride-to-be. "And, I wanted to congratulate you first. I can't stay for the reception."

"I understand, thank you for coming." Jessica stood up and hugged the girl. "And I... would like to apologize for what my father asked of you. You shouldn't have been dragged into it."

"It's way behind us now. Don't worry about it." Hyomin patted Jessica's back.

Jessica nodded as she broke off the embrace. "I really appreciate it that you came. I know this still isn't easy on you."

"Yea, especially when Yuri looks so good today. I took a slight peek at her before heading up here; the suit's a good idea." Hyomin giggled, making a little joke about the situation. It lightened the atmosphere a little. "I'm fine. Just make sure that you two have the happiest marriage in the world, okay?"

Jessica smiled, ever so blissfully. "We will."

There was a knock on the door. "Jessica?"

"I'm ready, Grandma!" Jessica shouted from where she stood.

"I better get going..." Hyomin said as she raised a hand out. "Congratulations, Jessica."

"Thank you."

-----

“YA.”

Yuri woke from her trance as Hyoyeon snapped her fingers in front of her face.

“Jessica’s gonna come out soon. Get a hold of yourself.” Hyoyeon scolded. "Don't you dare ruin my marriage."

"MY marriage, Kim Hyoyeon."

"OUR marriage." Hyoyeon stated as she took her seat. The wedding planner had been serious, meticulous and downright strict throughout the whole process. In short, she was perfect, and the couple was grateful for that.

Yuri swallowed that lump in her throat. Before she had noticed, everyone had already taken their seats. She scanned the little crowd of people before her, feeling the nervousness dive in at that moment.

“Go Yuri!!” Sooyoung screamed from her seat, inciting laughter from the crowd.

Yuri looked over at the loudhailer and shook her head in embarrassment. Spotting Yoona beside the shikshin with her flounder face on, she chuckled; appreciating how her friends were trying to distract her from a nervous breakdown.

It particularly warmed her heart when she spotted Hyomin emerging from the house. Knowing how difficult it was for the girl to take time off her busy schedule, she mouthed a “thank you” to the girl, who responded with her usual, creepy smile.

The silence thereafter served up a chunk of anticipation. On Hyoyeon’s cue, Taeyeon’s sister began her performance.

(J.S. Bach’s Air on the G String in D Major ensues)

The emanating melody of the piano was serene and calm, but it didn't do much to ease Yuri's anxiousness. Taking deep breaths, Yuri stood in wait as the procession began; half-reminiscing through the past 9 years.

How it all began.

-----

“Hello, I’m Yuri. Kwon Yuri.”

“Jessica Jung.”

-----

“Sicaaaaaaaaaaaa.”

“What. And I told you not to call me that.”

“Oh. What happened to being nice for 2 weeks? It’s only Day 1, you know.”

“What? It’s Day 2 today!”

-----

“Friends?”

“Friends.”

-----

Taeyeon and Tiffany appeared from the corner. Holding onto a bouquet of flowers, Tiffany smiled sweetly as she walked beside Taeyeon down the aisle, hand in hand. Taeyeon had the proudest look on her face. Ever since the beginning, TaeNy had always been the luckiest two people in the world, and no one could top that; they were the couple that others envied to death, they were the couple that others wished they were.

But at the end of the day, no one could really be Taeyeon and Tiffany.

-----

“Kwon Yuri. Are you done checking me out?”

“You… Me… Dance… NOW.”

-----

“Yuri?”

“I love you too, Jessica Jung Sooyeon.”

-----

“Sica, you’re the prettiest in the world to me.”

“Flattery will get you nowhere, Kwon Yul.”

-----

“Thank you for being honest with me.”

“I was afraid you’d be angry at me for telling you only now.”

“I was. But I really want you so much, Kwon Yuri.”

-----

As the couple drew closer to Yuri, they took their positions on opposite ends of the aisle. Taeyeon smirked as she stood beside Yuri. “Deep breaths, Kwon Yul.” she said softly.

“Okay.” Yuri said as she tried hard to compose herself for Jessica’s entrance.

-----

“Yuri. Do you know what all this is for?”

“Uhh… Dessert?”

“Well, not that...”

“I love you and I want you to be my girlfriend.”

-----

“I ALWAYS come first, before anyone else.”

“You are mine now, Jessica Jung.”

-----

“I’m selfish and I only want you for myself.”

“Looks like I made the right choice.”

“I am ALWAYS the right choice for you, Kwon Yul.”

-----

The crowd rose in synchrony.

Yuri waits on with bated breath, clutching her hands together behind her back.

The soothing melody resonates in the air.

And then she appears, around the corner.

White dress.

Pretty little bouquet.

Blonde locks, neatly tied up in a bun.

She was the prettiest bride anyone had ever seen.

-----

“I LOVE HER, Dad! What is wrong with that?”

“NOT in that way! She’s a girl for godssakes!”

“SO?”

-----

“Look at me, Kwon Yuri. Why are you doing this…?”

“Leave…”

“Please… Just stop this now!! Yuri, I know you…”

“Leave now!! Get the hell out of my house!!”

-----

"If you consider standing here and waiting around for a miracle to happen as fighting, then yes. I am still fighting for her."

“Always have, always will.”

-----

Grandma Lee smiled kindly at Yuri as she led Jessica down the aisle. It was a proud smile, a comforted smile, an accomplished smile. It was the smile that she had saved for her partner, the smile that never changed even through the decades.

-----

“She wrote frequently, Yuri. I received one every month or so.”

“As we age, our parents pass on, and our kids leave us to form their own families. What we’re left with is the person beside us. Cherish them.”

“And this girl really loves you. Would you want to keep her waiting forever?"

-----

Jessica Jung, the stranger.

Jessica Jung, the friend.

Jessica Jung, the girlfriend.

Jessica Jung, the long-lost lover.

And now, Jessica Jung the wife.

-----

“JESSICA JUNG SOOYEON!”

“What.”

"SICAAAAAA!!!!”

“WHAT!?”

“Am I dreaming…??”

-----

“I only love you… Yuri.”

“I’m so glad you came for me…”

-----

“Tsk tsk tsk. People in love. You know, you can continue with Hot and Heavy Part 2 at somewhere a little more private.”

“Speaking of Part 2…”

“Will you marry me, Jessica Jung Sooyeon?”

-----

Everyone's eyes were on the bride. The girl was the picture of elegance and sophistication all in one; and it was without doubt that she held the title of the Ice Princess. Jessica Jung was royalty, and for the nth time in Yuri's life, she had taken her breath away.

-----

"Don't push your daughter away by refusing her the happiness she's entitled to. I love Jessica. If you do too, let her have the best of both worlds."

-----

“The amount of crumpled paper you see in here is about the amount for just... two weeks. These are the letters that I've tried to write but failed, because I wanted you to come for me. Without me asking you to do so.”

"I’ve already waited for years to be with you, Yuri. Please, don't make me wait anymore."

-----

"Thank you, Yuri."

"For?"

"For making our home perfect."

"It's the least I could do. From now on, we'll stay here together. No one's gonna leave anyone."

-----

"Do you know it's been 9 years for me too, Yuri?"

"Good night, Seobang. I love you."

-----

Their eyes met. It was an eye contact that shared reassurance and faith; the same eye contact that never changed throughout the years. Yuri could feel her eyes getting wet as Jessica continued bridging the distance between them.

-----

“You guys have to fill me in on everything, cos I don't recall a single thing, and every time I try to, my head friggin' hurts!"

“Fine, I will.”

"You want to know everything? When you get discharged later tonight, you're coming home with me."

-----

"I'm sorry. Just let me hug you for a while… I just really miss you."

“Help me remember. Because I really… want to be with you right now.”

“Then just be with me.”

-----

That smile. That powerful, omnipotent smile that Jessica was blessed with.

That same smile that Yuri remembered from 9 years ago had never changed. It was kind, loving, and it showed the warmth within the girl's hostile exterior.

As the two lovers drew closer, a tear slid down Yuri's cheek, her eyes filled with longing and a little impatience. Jessica smiled and shook her head slightly, knowing full well that Yuri could afford the little wait now.

-----

“I went after Minnie today because I needed an affirmation.”

“W-What affirmation?”

“I needed to see her to know that what I feel towards her isn’t the same as what I feel for you.”

-----

“From that one night, from just THAT ONE NIGHT, Sica… I started having all these unexplainable, extremely intense feelings for you and I've been killing myself the whole time for feeling that way.”

“I don’t care if I ever regain my memories. I don’t need them to know that the one I love is Jessica Jung.”

-----

“You could have died, Yuri…”

“I don’t care.”

“But I do!! What if my father hurts you again??”

“I don’t… care.”

“I just wanna be with you.”

-----

It wasn't only Yuri. The tears streamed down the faces of everyone present as they watched Jessica make her way to the tanned girl. Emotions high, every single person was silently proud of themselves of having contributed to their love story in one way or another.

Jessica was perhaps, the only one who didn't shed a tear then. There was no need to, not anymore.

She was the proudest of YulSic.

-----

“There’s a blood clot in your brain, Yuri… The doctors say that you’ll need surgery…”

“It’ll be okay. And when all this is over...”

“After the surgery, I’ll marry you.”

-----

“I came here to apologize. Everything that has happened to you has been entirely my fault. I was wrong, and I can never do enough to make amends, but I will never stop trying.”

“It’s okay. What matters is that you’re on YulSic’s side now, right?”

“You are really something, Yuri. You know that? I've always liked you.”

“Thank you. For fighting for Jess.”

-----

“Hold on, Jessica.” Grandma Lee said as she stopped in her tracks. The crowd watched on as Grandma Lee turned to her right and grabbed Mr Jung’s hand.

“I’ve done my part. Now it’s your turn.” she said with the warmest smile on her face.

Mr Jung looked up in surprise, before looking towards his daughter for permission.

Jessica smiled. “I can't walk down the aisle without my father.”

The man instantly stood up and took over Jessica’s arm as Grandma Lee settled in her seat. As he felt his little girl link her arm on his, he felt the immense weight on his shoulders rapidly dissipating. He was proud of himself, proud of Yuri, and most of all, proud of his very own daughter.

“Thank you.” Mr Jung said sincerely.

-----

“And lastly… My Sica baby…”

“I love you, I love you, and I love you.”

“I know, Kwon Seobang.”

“I love you forever, Kwon Yuri. I’ll be waiting for you to marry me.”

-----

From a thousand miles away to none, from several dozen steps to just one.

“Hello, Sica baby. You look gorgeous.”

“Hello, Kwon Seobang. You look very handsome today.” Jessica said as she brushed off that tear on Yuri's face.

Mr Jung held his head up high as he handed his daughter over to Yuri. “I’ll be counting on you from now on, Yuri.” he smiled.

“Sure do.” Yuri replied confidently as Jessica linked her arm around Yuri’s.

(piano music ends)

"Ready?" Yuri asked softly.

"Ever ready." Jessica replied as she leaned a little closer to the taller girl.

(And from today…)

(Our happy ending begins.)

-----

“You may kiss your bride.”

The crowd stood up in unison and clapped their hands as Yuri swiftly pulled Jessica in for a kiss. A long, fulfilling kiss, a kiss overdue for years, but a kiss that symbolized everything that they’ve wanted the past 9 years; to be together.

And just like the girls in those cheesy romance movies; Jessica's leg popped.

One by one, the crowd teared up in exuberation, sparking off a chain reaction of heightened emotions.

Except for one.

“AHEM!” Sooyoung cleared her throat loudly. “You have the rest of your lives to make out.” she said, earning a slap on her arm from Sunny.

"Don't be such a wet blanket." Sunny scolded.

"But I'm starving, and Sica just HAD to take ages to walk down the friggin' aisle."

Breaking apart, the newly married couple giggled as they looked at each other. Yuri held tightly onto Jessica's hand and looked at the shorter girl proudly.

"Mrs Jessica Kwon. My wife."

It brought the brightest smile to the happiest girl in the world.

"I've waited so long for this, Kwon Yul."

Instinctively, Yuri leaned forward and kissed the girl again, oblivious to the crowd who had been watching the both of them like a movie.

"OMGAWD. ENOUGH, LOVE MUSH. Hyoyeon, just start the reception already!!" Sooyoung screamed in desperation.

"Shall we?" Yuri asked.

Giggling, Yuri and Jessica ran down the aisle, hand in hand, while the rest walked on behind.

"We're married!!" Yuri proudly declared to the world as they ran back towards the house.

Finishing second place, not far behind, was Choi Sooyoung. With the face of a starved predator, she dragged her little bunny along to the reception area. "FOOD!! Hurry, Bunny!!"

Third place belonged to TaeNy, who simulated running down the aisle with smiles so bright they could blind the sun. "Our marriage will be better than yours!" Taeyeon screamed as she held Tiffany's hand up in victory.

The rest of the crowd followed on behind. While everyone walked away, Hyomin remained seated, tears at the brink of her eyes. But they were neither tears of sadness or regret. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath of the crisp, fresh air, and bathed in the relief of finally seeing her loved one get the happy ending she deserved. Afterall, in the girl's eyes, the basis of love only lay in one area; nobility, and the wish of all the happiness of the world on the one you love, cliched as it is.

It was the release she'd been wanting all these years.

"Guess I should head back to my own marriage..." Hyomin muttered, slightly dreading the intense schedule she had ahead of her.

She stood up from her seat and took one more glance at the married couple before walking away, refreshed and rejuvenated.

-----

That afternoon, everyone was seated at the (incredibly long) table, waiting for the food to be served. It was the scene of one big happy family. One that Yuri and Jessica could only dream of years ago.

"Okay everyone! Let the feast begin!" Hyoyeon announced happily.

"QUICKLY!" the starved shikshin yelled as the waiters walked towards the table.

The rowdy table was accompanied by a little jazz band at the corner, and the dusk sky emanated an orange glow in the atmosphere. While YulSic thrived in this incredibly rare circumstance, Sooyoung bathed in the feast of her dreams.

"Sooyoungie, relax. The food's not going anywhere." Sunny told the girl beside her. She was already becoming accustomed to Sooyoung's 180 switch in the presence of food; cool to dork.

"Yeshh it ishh!" Sooyoung said through a mouth full of food. "It's going into the stomachs of others. Especially Yoong. I'm not gonna sit around and let that shikshin-wannabe take my place."

"But she's not." Sunny pointed over to Yoona.

"Oh. So our Yoong has come to the dark side." Sooyoung realized what was happening there and then. "See, love muddles everything else. FOOD, is EVERYTHING!"

"Choi Sooyoung."

It was undoubtedly the tone of a serious Sunny. Very slowly, Sooyoung swallowed her mouthful of food and turned to her.

"Food, or Bunny?"

Sooyoung fell silent, a huge contrast from her rambling earlier on. As she looked at an arms-folded, eyebrows-arched Sunny, she panicked on the one question which she knew would cause a major headache.

Crap. I knew this would come sooner or later...

"Argh!! Stomach ache!" Sooyoung screamed as she bent over.

"You okay, Sooyoung?" Tiffany looked over and asked in concern. The shikshin's scream is without doubt, on par with Mrs Kwon's in terms of volume.

"She's fine." Sunny smiled as she patted Sooyoung on her back.

"I-I need to go. Excuse me!" Sooyoung hurriedly got off her seat and darted towards the house.

Sunny gave an all-knowing smile as she watched the shikshin trail off.

I'm gonna dig that answer out of your shikshin mouth one day, Sooyoungie.

-----

Fiddling with her fork, Yoona observed the girl seated opposite her for a few moments.

“That was a great rendition.” Yoona spoke up. Seeing how everyone was paired up or busy, she'd decided to break the ice with the girl who had been quiet all evening amongst the rowdy crowd.

The girl bowed politely as she put her utensils down on the table and swallowed her food. “Thank you.”

“So you’re Taeyeon’s older sister?”

The girl shook her head. “I was born in 1991.”

“Oh! Sorry! It's just that Taengoo has such a baby face.” Yoona smiled sheepishly. "Not that you look old."

She responded by nodding with a slight smile.

Eager to create a friendly relationship, Yoona rose out her hand and said, “Nice to meet you. Im Yoona, 1990. That makes me your unnie.”

The girl slowly reached out for Yoona’s hand. “Seohyun. Nice to meet you too, unnie.”

"That's a nice name."

“IM YOONA.”

Yoona immediately looked up at the shorter girl who appeared behind Seohyun. “Why are you holding my sister’s hand?” Taeyeon exclaimed. “And why are you talking to her in the first place? To think I've only left the table for a short while..."

“I wanted to commend her on her performance. It was really good.” Yoona said as she let go of Seohyun’s hand. "And well, she's seated right opposite me, I was just trying to be friendly."

“Tete, what’s wrong with you?” Tiffany grabbed onto Taeyeon’s arm and slightly shook it.

“Yoona is part of the YoonYulSoo clan. Of course I’m worried.” Taeyeon answered. "Those 3 monkeys..." she muttered under her breath.

Yoona arched an eyebrow. “Huh?”

“Unnie…” Seohyun turned around and held Taeyeon’s arm. “Yoona unnie was being nice.”

"Awww... That's sweet." Tiffany said. "You're being silly, Tete."

Taeyeon narrowed her eyes at Yoona again before turning to her sister. “R-really?” she asked, still on defensive mode.

Seohyun nodded in response.

“Fine. I’ll be watching you, Im Yoona.” Taeyeon waved a finger at the taller girl before turning to her sister. "I'll be leaving with Fany to settle some... stuff." she declared before she walked off with Tiffany.

“Sorry, unnie’s always been overprotective of me.” Seohyun apologized sincerely.

Yoona shook her head. “I understand. I've known Taengoo for years. By the way, just call me Yoong. We can drop the formalities.”

“I can’t. You’re older than me so I should—“

“I insist.” Yoona stated as she lifted her glass of water. "Or else we can't be friends."

Reluctantly, Seohyun nodded her head.

Yoona smiled as she swallowed her gulp of water. "So, as a friend, can you do me a favor?"

Seohyun looked at Yoona inquisitively. "What is it?"

"Teach me the piano."

-----

"Sica Kwon, Kwon Sica. Jessica Kwon, Kwon Jessica. Kwon Sooyeon, Sooyeon Kwon..."

It earned the tanned girl a slap on her thigh. "What are you blabbering about?" Jessica asked.

"I just like how your new name rolls so nicely off my tongue." Yuri chuckled.

"As nice as it is, I love my old name too." Jessica said as she held up a spoon in front of Yuri's mouth.

"And you have both to use." Yuri leaned forward and ate the food off Jessica's spoon. "Oh gawd, marriage food tastes awesome. We should get married like a dozen times."

Jessica smiled as she leaned forward and licked the side of Yuri's lips. "Sure."

"We have napkins right here, Sica Kwon."

"Oh." Jessica picked up the spoon. "Do we?" she asked as she almost deliberately dirtied the side of her mouth.

Yuri narrowed her eyes and smirked. "Hold still." she ordered as she held Jessica's chin and leaned in.

"You two do realize that you're making out in front of family and friends, do you?"

The couple stared up at the intruder.

"Just saying." Hyoyeon shrugged.

"Fine. I'll just have to bring my bride into my chamber, then." Yuri replied sarcastically.

"Do whatever, but just be back in 15 minutes for the throwing of the bouquet. I'm kind enough to extend it to 15 when it was originally 10." Hyoyeon rolled her eyes and walked off.

Turning to Jessica, Yuri smiled cheekily.

"What?"

"Do you think 15 minutes is enough?" Yuri asked.

Jessica tried to mask a smile. "No. We're in the middle of OUR wedding reception, Yuri."

Yuri folded her arms and stared at the girl. "Jessica Kwon. You are by duty, bound to me and you shall heed my order."

"Oh really... And what if I don't?"

"Then, there will be grave punishments. 15 minutes in my torture chamber." Yuri stated. Smooth.

"Hmm." Jessica pouted as she held Yuri's hand and stood up. "Guess I'll have to receive my punishments then." she said as she dragged Yuri out of the chair.

The two girls had never walked faster in their life. Swiftly making their way across the patio, Yuri held Jessica's hand tightly and led her into the house. But as they walked past the kitchen, they spotted an anxious-looking Sooyoung prancing back and forth in it.

Yuri poked her head in. "You okay?"

"Huh? Yea yea, I'm fine." Sooyoung replied, still restless.

"Bunny problem?" the ever intuitive Jessica asked.

"Yea. Something like that. Hey, do you guys think I'm unromantic?" Sooyoung asked.

"Ohh." the married couple replied in unison.

Sooyoung frowned and turned away from their judging eyes. "I don't like that response."

"It's good to be a love mush." Yuri declared. "You just need to work a little on your romance department."

"Yea. That's what Yoong said too." Sooyoung said as she peered out the window. "Hmmm. Guess she's a love mush herself, huh?"

"What do you mean?" Jessica asked.

Sooyoung pointed at the window. Curious, the couple walked over to investigate.

"I present to you, the new couple in town: YoonHyun." Sooyoung declared.

"Wow..." Jessica said. "That's sweet."

"Yoong and Seohyun??" Yuri asked as Jessica leaned on her shoulder and fiddled with her hair.

"Yep." the shikshin sighed. "Guess I really need to work on being romantic."

"Wait. Yoong and Seohyun??" Yuri questioned again.

"What's wrong, Yuri?" Jessica asked, still fiddling with Yuri's hair.

"Well, Yoong is already sorta involved with this person named Jownie." (A/N: this is for @jownie: I kept my word!)

"Ohh that little player, walking around with a face so innocent." Sooyoung shrugged. "Ahh well. You can't blame her for being hot property, can you? Now if you'll excuse me, I have a Bunny to romance."

"Seriously, Im Yoona?" Yuri asked Jessica. The latter shrugged. "Well, she does have Daddy's genes." Jessica replied as she made a little faux-hawk on Yuri's head.

Yuri narrowed her eyes. "What do you mean by that, Sica Kwon?"

Jessica pouted as she flattened the faux-hawk and styled it again. "Juggling 2 people at once."

"I resent that! It's different! It's totally different!" Yuri defended herself. "I was in a different situation and I--"

The air vent was talking too much again. Inevitably, the only way to stop it was to clog her up, and Jessica did just that.

Unsurprisingly, it also somehow turned into a minor make out session.

"10 minutes left, Kwon Seobang."

-----

"Krys. Have you seen your sister or Yuri?"

Krystal looked up at her father. "Nope." As it was with all the couples that evening, Krystal and Amber had been in their own world, oblivious.

"Oh." Mr Jung replied, a little displeased. "Fancy them disappearing right in the middle of their reception. Kids these days..."

"MISTER JUNG!"

The man almost had the fright of his life. "Mrs Kwon, you can call me David--"

"It's time for our chat, DAVID!!" The lady had forcefully hooked an arm over the man's neck, giving him the second fright of his life.

The man detected something at that instant. "H-have you been drinking??" he asked incredulously, finding himself unable to wriggle out of her Iron Maiden's grip.

"Hee hee hee. Yes." Mrs Kwon replied, tightening her already tightened grip. "Now let's go, David!" she ordered as she began pulling him away.

"Mrs Kwon, y-you don't have to drag me by the neck... I-I can walk there myself..." His fruitless cries trailed off as he was dragged off.

Krystal watched in amazement. "I've never ever, seen Dad get manhandled like that!"

"Oh, there goes another one." Amber said, even more amused.

Krystal turned just in time to see her frantic mother approaching Mrs Kwon to intervene in the situation, only to be dragged by her neck; in the same way as Mr Jung. Behind Mrs Kwon, an apologetic Mr Kwon and Grandma Lee were trying their hardest to help but to no avail. The drunk lady was indeed a force to be reckoned with.

The 2 girls who witnessed the whole scene had tears in their eyes. They were dying of laughter.

-----

The clock was ticking.

Breezing up the stairs, Yuri and Jessica came to a stop outside Yuri's bedroom. As tradition would have it, Yuri picked up the blonde, this time, actual bridal-style, complete with tux and gown, with Jessica catching onto Yuri's shoulders with expert timing. It was unsurprisingly well co-ordinated; they had always known what each other was up to.

But of course, external factors were often hard to anticipate, i.e. whatever that was behind the door.

It was the showdown of Happy Couple 1 vs Happy Couple 2.

"WHY?!!" Yuri yelled, still holding Jessica.

The unkempt couple didn't even bother tidying themselves up this time. "Shut the door!" Taeyeon scolded.

"NO. Get out!" Yuri ordered. "It's MY bed, and MY wedding day for godssakes!"

"Aww c'mon!" Taeyeon rebutted, a little frustrated that it was all bad timing.

"8 minutes, Seobang." Jessica whispered in Yuri's ear.

"OUT!" Yuri reiterated.

Grudgingly, Taeyeon dragged Tiffany out of bed and shot Happy Couple 1 a glare before exiting the room with Tiffany; who was particularly generous with eye-smiles at that moment.

"Don't think you can get away with it by smiling!" Yuri scolded as Tiffany continued smiling down the hallway.

Shutting the door after them with a slight kick, Yuri then brought Jessica to the bed and lay her on it. "Oh you poor, traumatised bed. Here, here's my hot wife for you. Feeling better?" Yuri asked as she caressed the wooden edges of the bedframe.

Jessica rolled her eyes and sighed. "And I married this person..." she muttered under her breath.

"Oh yes you did..." Yuri sniggered as she settled on the bed. "Time check: 6 minutes. We're still good."

Jessica smiled as she gently pulled Yuri towards her by her collar. "You just can't wait till the day's over, can you?"

"I CAN wait, but why should I?" Yuri stated as she leaned in.

"That's true..."

There was little distance for Yuri to cover. Time was working against her, but she wanted to savor every moment on their wedding day as much as possible. Slowly but surely, she approached the one inch mark - one inch away from Jessica's lips.

And then it goes...

0.9 inches.

0.8

0.7

0.6

Thump thump thump.

Yuri's heart rate was soaring. Even at this stage of their relationship, the prospect of a mere kiss with the blonde signalled an adrenaline rush she's never experienced before. Yuri didn't understand why, but she attributed it to the brain surgery; faulty connections in her head.

0.5

0.4

Strawberries. Yuri loved that familiar scent.

0.3

0.2

She knew without a doubt, that the kiss would spark off everything that would come so naturally after; their very first union as a married couple. She was beginning to wonder if these 6 minutes were enough.

0.1

"ARGHHHHH!!" came a voice in the distance.

It was like a broken record on a romantic date, rain on the day you wore your favorite shoes, and a faulty broadcast on the night of the big game.

What. The. Hell.

"It sounded like Dad." Jessica said, before getting off the bed.

"Sicaaaaa..." Yuri groaned and pulled the blonde back.

"Kwon Yuri, you'll have me for the rest of your life." Jessica said, cupping Yuri's face. "Now let's go." she dragged Yuri out of bed.

Grudgingly, Yuri tagged along. As they approached down the stairs, they stopped halfway down and witnessed with their own eyes a family feud.

Sorta.

Mr Jung was bent over, clutching his stomach and seemingly in pain. "I'm okay... I'm okay..." he croaked.

"How could you hit him?!" Mrs Jung yelled.

"There was a bug right there!!" Mrs Kwon defended herself. "What if it was poisonous? I have potentially saved his life!!"

"I'm okay... I'm okay..."

"But that was a punch! Who punches a bug??"

"Forgive her, she doesn't know her own strength..." Mr Kwon spoke up for his wife.

"Calm down everyone..." Grandma Lee pleaded.

The married couple had a good laugh. "Hmmm. Looks like they're getting along just fine." Yuri commented as they watched the scene in secret. "Never thought that--"

"I've seen enough." Jessica said, turning back to face Yuri. "How about us... getting along?"

But there were no words, and not a hint of expression from the taller girl. Instead, the latter lifted the blonde in a bear hug and proceeded straight back to the room before Jessica could investigate further.

Laying her down on the bed, Yuri lay beside Jessica and embraced her from the back. It was a deadlock grip.

Jessica knew something was up. Nothing about Yuri escaped her senses. She reached behind and stroked the back of Yuri's head gently, feeling her soft, short hair going through her fingers.

"What's wrong, Seobang?"

"I just... can't believe we're finally married..."

Jessica chuckled and turned around to face Yuri. The girl had tears in her eyes. "You know, everyone thinks I'm the one who's gonna act like that on our wedding day."

Yuri sniffed, holding back her tears. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be. This is why I love you, silly. And, I already had my fill of tears this morning." Jessica admitted, fiddling with Yuri's hair again.

Yuri smiled. "You like my new 'do, don't you?"

Jessica nodded. "It's cute. You look good as a boy, Kwon Yul." Jessica stated, running her fingers through the faux-hawk she had styled earlier on.

"But I'm a pretty girl..." Yuri pouted. "I guess, if you really like it so much, I'm willing to stick with this..." she offered as she touched the back of her head; trying to get used to the bareness.

Jessica laughed. "I love you either way, Yuri. It's not just how you look."

There was something about Jessica's laughter; it sparkled, and it lit up the room. More importantly, it led to a grin on Yuri's face. "You look so beautiful today, Sica Kwon."

Jessica pinched Yuri's nose. "Flattery again. What do you want?"

"A kiss will be nice."

Jessica leaned in closer and looked into Yuri's eyes. "Sure. Just a kiss. Because we're outta time..."

Yuri held Jessica's chin and brought her even closer. "I'm not sure if we can stop at just a kiss though..."

0.1

"YULSIC!!" a series of loud knocks on the door ensued at the 0.1-inch mark, again. "I know you're in there!! I just killed myself gathering all the young'uns for the bouquet-throwing ceremony, and then you two decide to scoot off for some sexy time of your own?! This wedding is a splotch on my perfect record!"

Yuri groaned as she looked at her irresistable wife, before an idea popped up in her head. "Is the bouquet with you now?" she yelled.

"Yes, now come out!!"

Very swiftly, Yuri made her way to the door and opened it.

"Good! Now let's--"

Before Hyoyeon could finish, Yuri had grabbed the bouquet from her hands and slammed the door in her face.

"What the-- YULSIC!!!" came the heated response.

"Hmmm, let's see." Yuri dragged Jessica to the window which faced the patio. Overlooking the little crowd of pairings that had gathered, they contemplated hard.

TaeNy were standing awkwardly, seemingly full of unreleased frustration.

KryBer were waiting eagerly, discussing about utilizing their heights for bouquet-catching.

SooSun were engaged in a tug of war. Sunny up against a table of food with Sooyoung as the rope.

"YULSIC!!! Get out here now or I'll break the door!!"

"I made a choice. Have you?" Jessica asked.

"Yes. And I'm pretty sure we both made the same choice." Yuri said as she handed Jessica the bouquet.

"I'll give you 10 SECONDS! 10, 9..."

"8, 7..."

"You throw it, Seobang. You have a stronger arm."

"6, 5..."

"Okay. Here goes..." Yuri began taking aim. Once ready, she threw the pretty little bouquet, with perfect precision, out of the window.

"4, 3..."

Imagine a slow-motion movie. Now, imagine 6 hungry wolves, and a piece of meat soaring in the air. Some wolves jump, some wolves reach high, some wolves push other wolves, but every wolf only had eyes for the same thing; the meat.

But at the end of this movie, none of the 6 desperate wolves would get the meat.

Because the meat had landed on the piano.

-----

(5 minutes ago)

"Is this it?" Yoona asked as she played a few keys.

Seohyun listened intently for a little while. "Almost. You're doing well, Yoona unnie."

"Well I have a good teacher." Yoona smiled. "And what did I say about formalities?"

"Sorry. I'm just stubborn when it comes to things like that..." Seohyun said sheepishly.

Yoona shrugged as she tried playing again. "That's a good quality to have, actually."

"It should be played in this way..." Seohyun reached forward and guided Yoona's fingers on the keys, taking the latter by surprise. When she realized what she had done, she hurriedly retracted her hands. "Sorry, it's a habit. I correct the kids all the time--"

"You're a piano teacher?"

Seohyun nodded.

"Wow, that's awesome!" Yoona exclaimed excitedly, unknowingly grabbing Seohyun's hand. "You have to teach me too!"

"S-sure..." Seohyun said shyly.

"GIRLS! Get over here! YulSic's gonna throw the friggin' bouquet!" Hyoyeon yelled as she walked over to them. "Speaking of which, where are they??"

Yoona sighed. "Try Yuri's bedroom."

"Oh that hormonally charged couple..." Hyoyeon rubbed her forehead. "Okay you two, see those desperate-for-marriage girls gathered over there?  Join them while I get YulSic." she ordered as she walked off.

Yoona sighed as she turned to Seohyun. "You interested in catching flowers?"

"Not really..."

"That makes two." Yoona stated, half-laughing. "So... Why haven't I met you till today?"

Seohyun shrugged. "At least we've met, right?"

The two girls smiled as they looked at each other, before an awkward silence ensued. Breaking out of it, Yoona cleared her throat and focused on the piano again. "Does it go like this?" she attempted the few notes again.

"Y-yes, you're getting there."

"Great. Uhh..." Yoona paused before turning to face Seohyun. "Would you be my piano teacher? I would really like to learn."

Seohyun stared blankly at Yoona for a moment, inwardly wondering why. "S-sure! I'll be glad to. But out of curiosity... Why didn't you ask Yuri unnie? I've heard her play before and she's good."

"Oh! I uhh..." Yoona bit her lip, wondering what to say next. "Uhh..."

And just when Yoona was wishing for a miracle to pull her out of the situation, it came; in the form of a bouquet. The pretty thing made a beautiful landing right on the top of the grand piano with a soft thud, and one of its roses fell out of the bouquet, conveniently into Seohyun's hand.

Everyone gasped.

-----

"2, 1..."

"Yes!!" Yuri screamed victoriously as Jessica hugged her from the side.

"Good aim, Kwon seobang!"

"WHAT?!" asked the voice behind the door.

"The bouquet has been thrown! Now leave us alone!!" Yuri yelled as she pinned Jessica down on the bed.

"This is ridiculous!!" Hyoyeon yelled in frustration before stomping off.

Still bathing in victory, Yuri smiled as she went back to the 0.1 mark.

"Time to collect my prize."

"YULSIC!!!"

Yuri groaned as she got off Jessica and climbed towards the window. "WHAT?!"

The little crowd downstairs resembled an angry riot of protestors. "Why didn't you throw the bouquet to us??" Taeyeon yelled.

"You're already getting married! You don't need it!"

"What about us then??" Sooyoung screamed on her pairing's behalf.

"You..."

"You can't even decide between food and Sunny!" Jessica answered, before pointing at her little sister. "And you two; too young!"

Yuri smiled proudly at her wife and backhugged her tightly in everyone's view. "Entertain yourselves! We're busy!" she yelled as she dragged Jessica away from the window and back to the bed.

-----

Yoona gulped as she stared at the rose in Seohyun's hand. The latter had brought the rose up to her face to sniff it. "They're so nice to give this to us."

"Uhh... Do you know what it means to catch the bouquet?"

Seohyun looked at Yoona inquisitively. "Does it mean something?"

"It uhhh..." Once again, Yoona found herself stuck and wishing for a miracle. "Well..."

"You two!"

It was the tone and voice of The Angry and Protective Older Sister. "Don't EVEN think about it, Yoong."

Yoona frowned. "About what?"

"About-- ACK!!"

Tiffany had pulled Taeyeon roughly towards her by the waist, causing the latter to cough a little. "Oh forgive Tete, she's just a little disappointed that she didn't get the bouquet." she smiled sweetly as she looked at the bouquet with eyes of longing. "Now you girls, would you like to join us in having a little fun with the newlyweds?"

Tiffany's sweet smile was just a facade to the I-WANTED-THAT-BOUQUET-AND-NOW-YOU-OWE-ME expression underneath. Yoona turned to Seohyun for an answer, and at that point, they both knew they had no choice but to accept Tiffany's offer.

"S-sure."

-----

The situation in Yuri's bedroom was a complete chasm of the chaos that was apparent everywhere else in the house. Jessica and Yuri were engaged in some sort of staring contest on the bed, both keeping totally still.

The way Yuri was staring at her, Jessica couldn't help but ask, "Are you mentally undressing me right now?"

"Yes." Yuri replied without hesitation. "And also, a couple of other things as well. Mentally."

Jessica grabbed Yuri's hand which had been stationary on her waist and leaned closer to the latter's face. "Why think when you can do?"

"I've decided to wait it out. Till tonight." Yuri replied. "I'm fairly certain that we'll be interrupted very soon. Our first intimacy as a married couple will not go down my list of memories as 'it was bumpy and full of intrusion'."

"Hmmm." Jessica wrapped her arms around Yuri's neck. "How about... 'despite the odds; I was desperate and hungry'?"

Yuri fell silent and just stared at Jessica for several seconds.

"This is the time you're supposed to kiss me, Kwon Yuri."

"You know if I do that, I'll--"

Jessica had clogged the air vent again. Whatever inhibition Yuri had had been instantly wiped out. Jessica was right; despite the odds, they were both desperate and hungry, especially after a whole day of built up anticipation. Yuri was on the verge of putting her previous thoughts into action, and the adrenaline rushes were not helping. The girl beneath her was afterall, the devil when it came to things like that.

In her head, Yuri silently thanked the endless number of romance novels that had filled Jessica's head all these years.

A hungry kiss turned into a little something more, and the best part? The 0.1 curse had been thrown into the wind.

But before Yuri could make an attempt at un-mentally undressing Jessica, the latter had stopped her overzealous hand.

"Appetizer; served. Main course, later." Jessica declared as she got off the bed.

Yuri grunted in frustration. "See, I told you I was fairly certain about the interruption. I just didn't expect it from my wife herself."

"The kiss was to whet your appetite. We have a reception to be at, Yuri. After that, I'm all yours."

Reluctantly, Yuri got off the bed and held Jessica's hand. "After that, you're ALL mine."

-----

The sun had set, and the chaos downstairs had dissipated. Mrs Kwon was tucked into bed, the rest of the Kwon-Jungs were in a friendly conversation in the living room, and all the couples were out at the patio, dancing to the soft jazz music courtesy of the band that had never stopped playing throughout.

It was everyone's first dance. Especially so for the painfully shy YoonHyun. Afterall, they were the only 2 left without a partner after Hyoyeon had insisted on flying solo.

"No one will ever be able to keep up with my dancing," she would say.

"You have the perfect height for me to lean on." Jessica said, making her point by resting her head on Yuri's shoulder.

Yuri giggled. "We established that since high school. You'd always fall asleep on my shoulder, even during class."

"High school seems so long ago..." Jessica smiled as she observed everyone. "After so many years, all of us are still here."

"10, 20 years later, we'll still be."

"HYAH!!"

Everyone's attention turned to that loud screech. Choi Shikshin was engaging her Bunny in an overdramatic tango; which was totally incompatible with the soft, romantic music. Sunny laughed, everyone laughed.

"And we'll all remain the same." Yuri added.

The couple held each other comfortably, while Yuri added "best day of my life" in her mental list of memories. This time, she would guard her trusty database with her life. These were memories no one should lose.

"Ladies." Mr Jung approached the couple. "Mind if I borrow my daughter for a while, Yuri?"

"Sure." Yuri graciously handed Jessica over before approaching Hyoyeon. "Hey! Dance battle; you and me!"

"Me too me too!" The tango dancer had screeched.

Mr Jung laughed as he led the dance with his daughter. "Are your friends all like that?"

"Mmm hmm." Jessica replied.

"You're surrounded by good people, Jess." Mr Jung said, impressed. "And just so you know, I'm one of them too."

Jessica smiled. "I know, Dad."

"Thank you for letting me walk you down the aisle."

"Thank you for letting me marry Yuri." Jessica said.

Just like YulSic, Mr Jung was having one of the best days of his life. "Come here." Mr Jung pulled his daughter into an embrace, unable to contain himself. Despite being taken by surprise, it was a pleasant one; to Jessica, her father was never quite the hugger.

The man patted Jessica's back. "You know, I learned this from Yuri." Mr Jung said, albeit embarrassed. "Never knew a simple hug could mean so much." he admitted.

"She taught you well, Dad." Jessica giggled as her eyes spotted Kwon Seobang in the midst of a very heated dance battle against Hyoyeon and Sooyoung.

Mr Jung laughed heartily along with his daughter as he watched the trio.

"Yes, she did."

-----

The rest of the night was dominated by a bunch of drunkards; a whole table of them. Frustrated with the ruckus the young ones were making, the elders had all gone to bed at Grandma Lee's, leaving them with the Kwon house tonight.

Seated beside the slightly inxoticated tanned girl, Jessica indulged like she never did before. With their hands glued for the entired night, Jessica would take peeks at Yuri every now and then, silently spazzing when she noticed that Yuri did the same.

It was all good now. She had Yuri, Yuri had her, and none of this came naturally. They worked hard for it.

And that fact only made their happy ending seem much more well-deserved.

In the future events to come, Taeyeon and Tiffany would go on to have the "best marriage this world has ever seen", and as the years passed Taeyeon and Yuri would have cookoffs, which involved a panel of judges led by Choi Shikshin, most of which Taeyeon would win and Yuri would go home sulking until Jessica worked her magic.

Krystal and Amber would go back to San Francisco to finish school. Unsurprisingly, an overprotective Daddy Jung would tag along and eventually move back there, now that he was certain that Jessica was in good hands.

Grandma Lee, Mr and Mrs Kwon would have dinners together every night, with the latter calling Yuri up every now so and then with a new dictionary word that she was enthralled with. YulSic would make frequent trips back home to visit; especially with Jessica's insistence.

Hyoyeon would go on to become a highly desired wedding planner, and would go on inwardly mocking mushy couples and desperate singles, until one day, she would fall in love with a desperate love mush at some mushy couple's wedding.

In an almost similar future, Hyomin would go on to be a wildly successful musician, finding herself still overwhelmed with her work load and having no time for love. That is, until one day someone would come along; and that someone would be the luckiest in the world having Hyomin as a girlfriend.

Sooyoung would still be eating, Sunny would still be feeding. She would also take up a new hobby: hair-cutting. But of course, Sooyoung would never mind. Afterall, having the two greatest loves in her life; Sunny AND food, there was nothing that could bring her down.

And as for the biggest question that ever bogged the brilliant minds of the world: "Sunny OR Food?", no one would ever know the true answer. Though, it would be good to know that Sooyoung would work harder at being romantic than looking for the best new restaurant in town.

YulSic would go on to be YulSic, they would have their day jobs and come home to each other everyday. Sometime in the future, the soft-hearted Yuri would bring home a sick, abandoned puppy that would become Jessica's greatest love rival since Hyomin. It would go on to chew Jessica's favorite shoes, relieve itself on her favorite magazines, and beg for Yuri's constant attention. Jessica would detest it, right up till that one fine day when she finds out that it displayed hostility towards girls who attempted to hit on her Kwon Seobang.

Because like Jessica, the puppy had one motto: Kwon Yuri is mine. (It would be content on sharing Yuri with Jessica though)

That aside, Yuri would continue showering Jessica with bear hugs, dorky antics and good food, while Jessica would contribute cucumber dreams, dolphin shrieks and icy glares. Despite how monotonous it sounds, they would spend every single day being shamelessly in love with each other, they would be stable, and there would be no further setbacks in their relationship.

Afterall, they've already used it all up the past 9 years.

Finally, as for Yoona and Seohyun, let's just say they'll be having many piano lessons for the rest of their lives.

At the end of all this, everyone would go on with their lives like normal people; there would be careers to take care of, families to visit, wives to make, and maybe, children to have. There would be times when they would feel like they had it all with their partners, there would also be bouts of arguments and disagreements where they would feel like murdering them, amidst these happy times. Every one of them would go on to have their personal, tailor-made experiences in life.

Afterall, this is not the end;

This is just the end of a narration.

Love,

JTSJ

-----

And so it ends here, readers!!

Actually no, there is a bonus scene below, obviously PG and obviously in no need of warning. (I'm pretty sure everyone would read it anyway) So, enjoy!!

-----

BONUS

"Umpf..."

Yuri groaned in pain as her back made contact with the hard wall. In the back of her head she was pondering on Jessica's mysterious, sudden surge in strength. Shaking her head, she smiled at the shorter girl who was fumbling with buttons which clasped the irksome fabric that clung onto her body.

"And I thought MY patience was wearing thin." Yuri said.

Jessica glared at the taller girl and forcefully yanked at her tie, pulling Yuri closer to her. She didn't speak; she merely glared.

It was, once again, the 0.1.

Yuri stopped smiling. She was suddenly thrown back into the familiar scene which involved a cliff, the abyss, and the risk of plummeting.

Jessica smirked, feeling victorious. "Seems like the surgery wasn't a full success. In case you haven't figured out, this is the part where we kiss."

Yuri arched an eyebrow. "Oh you of all people, should KNOW that it was a full success..." she leaned forward in an attempt to kiss the blonde.

Jessica swiftly avoided it with two fingers to Yuri's lips. "In case you haven't figured out, you're not gonna get it so easily."

Yuri smiled, feeling confident. "In case you haven't realized, my patience isn't any thicker than yours." she crept a hand behind the shorter girl. "I'll get what I want."

Target acquired: Zipper.

"Oh really."

Target located: Metal, small. Requires a pull force directed 90 degrees against the surface.

Enemy engaged. Begin countdown.

3

2

1

"Yes, really."

Tug.

Pull.

Tug.

Tug.

Pull.

MOVE OMGAWD!

"What the hell..."

Jessica chuckled upon looking at a highly perplexed Yuri fumbling with the highly perplexing zipper. "Not so confident now, huh?" she said as she wrapped an arm around Yuri's neck. The other, was still on Yuri's lips.

"Just you wait. I'll win this war, Sica baby."

"Oh really." Jessica smirked. Very gently, she grazed her fingers across Yuri's lips and reached behind for Yuri's clumsy hand.

Like a train on a railway track, the journey was smooth, yet painfully slow for the tanned girl. At the end of the track, it came to a halt, leaving behind a whole opening to Jessica's weakness.

Yuri gulped. The dress only required less than a tug for removal.

With her other arm still hooked around Yuri's neck, Jessica brought the girl closer, to an impossible 0.05.

"Start the battle."

-----

Munch.

Munch.

Crunch.

"Hey pass the chips over already!" Hyoyeon yelled.

"Shhh!! I can't hear!!" Taeyeon scolded as she yanked the pack of chips out of Sooyoung's hands and handed it to Hyoyeon.

"YA!! Those are--"

"Here." Sunny tore open a new pack and handed it to the shikshin immediately, wanting to listen in. The latter gladly received it and continued munching.

"Seriously, why do they do things like that to each other?" Sooyoung asked with her mouth full. "Friggin' start the battle already, omgawd."

"Why are the unnies fighting on their wedding day??" Seohyun asked, visibly upset. "And they looked so happy earlier..."

Everyone turned over to the girl with an "OMGAWD" face except for Taeyeon and Tiffany. Apparently, there WERE people in this world who wouldn't get it.

"Well, it's healthy fighting, Seohyun." Yoona answered. "And why did I agree to do this anyway? My phone bill's gonna skyrocket..."

"Shh!!! Quiet down!" Taeyeon scolded again.

"You owe us for getting the BOUQUET." Tiffany whispered threateningly in Yoona's ear.

"Omgawd, are you guys still at it?" Krystal and Amber approached the gang camped out downstairs and asked. "Seriously how does my sister's private activities interest you guys?" Krystal scolded.

"Shhh!!!" Hyoyeon silenced her. "Have they started the battle yet? There's like nothing--"

("Yuri...")

("I surrender...")

(Moaning)

The whole room went silent. Sooyoung and Hyoyeon had stopped eating.

"Wow." Most of the room said in unison.

"Forever, traumatized." Krystal commented as Amber's mouth hung open. "Thanks guys." she dragged her girlfriend and stormed off.

Everyone else was silent as they continued listening in to the battle of the century.

"Tete, we lose." Tiffany shook her head in defeat. "YulSic has more epic battles than we do."

The shorter girl didn't reply. Taeyeon's face was a mix of disbelief and amazement.

"Don't worry." Sunny reached for Sooyoung's bag of chips and smiled. "You know, this will actually be a great learning tool." she commented, sending shivers down a particular shikshin's spine.

"I have to stop this!" Seohyun suddenly stood up.

It caught everyone's attention.

"Stop her, Yoong." Hyoyeon ordered.

"Sica unnie sounds like she's in pain! Why isn't anyone caring?"

Reluctantly, Yoona got up and held Seohyun back. "It's okay, they're engaged in healthy, physical fighting."

"How is physical fighting healthy at all?"

"Oh she'll show you one day." Sooyoung answered, inciting a glare from Yoona. "Oh hohoho. You have a tough one on your hands, buddy." Sooyoung chuckled.

"Shhh!!!" Sunny silenced the shikshin. "There's something."

("This land is mine now... Any last words before I invade the other territories?"

("I fully surrender, Colonel Kwon... Take my whole country now")

Everyone fell silent again. Hyoyeon munched on a chip very slowly.

Seohyun tugged on Yoona's shirt. "What does Sica-unnie mean?"

Yoona sighed and rubbed her forehead. "Ohhhh this is gonna be a long night..."

THE END.