Rules of A Forbidden Romance

ISLA

"Have the will to let go of the life planned from the past and prepare for the life that is waiting in the future..."

INCHEON, REPUBLIC OF SOUTH KOREA

5:30 P.M.

I took my luggage together with my travel bag from the baggage-claim area at the arrivals level before continuing to walk. I looked at my phone to see the time and I still had an hour and a half left before I could reach downtown Seoul. And without further ado, I quickly walked out of the Incheon International Airport.

The day before my arrival, I was told by my mom that I might need to ride a taxi going to this hotel in Seoul. But, you must be wondering why I arrived alone in this country?

It's because my mom was engaged to a South Korean businessman, Mr. Woo-jin Lee. He's not just a plain and simple businessman. He is the founder of the famous Seoul Arts and Design Institute – a university focusing on art courses. He is also the owner of Grand Publishing, the company reserved for new graduates of SADI.

Their engagement happened before I could even finish my college junior year in the Philippines under the course of Multimedia Arts. Now that my mom is in love again – and I'm not mad about that – she decided to move in with her future husband so as to why she went to Seoul without me last month.

My phone received a text message from my mom and she told me to take a cab going to the hotel where she is right now, preparing for the quick wedding ceremony between her and her fiance. It's a good thing Mr. Woo-jin is willing to pay for my expenses for coming here. However, I can't seem to find any available cabs to book online.

They can't be that busy or even fully booked...

Since the time is already running and I don't want to be late for the event, I decided to take the bus since it was the quickest public transport next to taking cabs. In only an hour, I will be in the heart of Seoul. But, even though I waited at the nearest bus stop for a few minutes, I didn't seem to get any of the rides. What is going on?

I looked at my phone again and it was 5:45 p.m. I am supposed to arrive there before 7:00 p.m. I also noticed that it was pretty dark, so I decided to contact my mom. She wasn't answering my call. I decided to send her a text saying that I'm still unable to get a ride going there and sent a selfie while at the bus stop.

It was already 6:00 p.m. and it has become really dark now. I couldn't help but feel scared that I'm still outside at night. My hands started shaking and it always happens when I feel scared of something. Since this is my first time coming to a different country, I will admit that I'm pretty anxious about my surroundings, mostly because I don't speak their language that much. I learned a bit, but I don't think I might be able to use that knowledge to make a conversation at all.

When I was about to leave the bus stop, my attention was completely caught by someone who suddenly approached me from behind. It was a man, a mature one wearing a suit. He looks like a businessman and he began talking to me in Korean. Since I couldn't understand a thing except for him greeting me annyeong (hello), I decided to use my hidden gem.

"Ihaega an dwaeyo (I don't understand)." I gestured as I spoke to him. I actually got that accurate translation from the LINE app.

He laughed a bit before trying to speak to me in English. His pronunciation is not that clear but I still managed to understand.

"You are not from here, yes?"

I nodded. "Yes. I'm not a local."

"You need help?" He suddenly asked and it made me pause before realizing that I actually needed a bit of help from someone who knows this place more than I do.

"Yes!" I exclaimed. "Yes. Wait a second."

I quickly took my phone and started tapping and scrolling on the screen before showing it to the man. I just wished he understood what I'll be saying next.

"I need to go here." I glanced at him to see if he was focused on what I was showing him. "Do you know where I can find this place?"

"Ohh..." I watched the way he stared at my phone as if he was trying his best to analyze how he would tell it to me in English. I could literally see the struggle from his face.

I almost lost it when he tried to speak in English until it slowly turned to Korean again. My jaw dropped while listening and staring at him. I just wish I could understand what he was mumbling about right now. Since his explanation was very long, I decided to stop him.

"Okay. I'm sorry. Joesong haeyo. But I can't really understand what you were explaining." I smiled at him awkwardly.

He gestured an OK sign to me. "Come with me. I will help you get a ride."

I was hesitant but... the fear of being alone at night without knowing the way to the place I'm supposed to go is stressing me. So, I carefully followed him and we walked a little far off from the main road. As I was secretly observing him, I noticed that he was being supervised which scared me a little.

And then there is this black car which is slowly driving near the side of the road. I got nervous and thought that this car might kidnap me, so I quickly walked away following the man who was trying to help me. Then, we reached a street which is not that far from the main road, but the area is a little dark.

"I think the road's over the–"

I was shocked when the man pushed me into an alley, the reason for me to stumble and fall on the ground.

"What are you doing?" I asked him in surprise.

He remained standing in front of me before he started walking slowly, approaching me, closer and closer like a perverted man. His smile was maniacal and I couldn't help but feel extremely scared.

"Please don't do this!" I begged him, but he just laughed at me.

I noticed how secluded this alley is and there's no way someone would hear me call for help. So, I quickly stood up before trying to run across him to escape since the alley was a dead-end, but he grabbed me and pushed me to a wall.

"HELP ME!" I screamed for help, but he suddenly covered my mouth.

He shushes at me as I feel his breath near my right face. The way he glared at my body was making my knees weak. Then, he started speaking again, obviously not in English, the reason I couldn't understand anything he said. That kept me from knowing what to do in this kind of situation. I don't even know how to do self-defense. I almost screamed in tears when he unbuttoned my denim polo shirt using his hands and all I could do was weep, helplessly.

This is my end.

I closed my eyes, wishing that someone would help me. But, this is the real world and no hero would be arriving to save someone–

"AGHK!"

I quickly opened my eyes after hearing a grunt from the man and he was no longer standing in front of me. I don't know what happened, but it seemed like he was attacked by another stranger.

"Are you alright?" I looked at the man who had just come to save me. Did I hear it right? He spoke to me in English! But, before I could even answer him, he just suddenly grabbed my arms, grabbed my stuff, and we both ran away from that alley.

We ran away until we reached a night market full of lights and surrounded by many people. We stopped and he continued catching his breath. Based on his features, he looked young and he seemed like a university student. He also wears an indigo varsity jacket and his hairstyle is on a medium-length curtain. His hair color is also blonde-brown.

"Are you okay?"

I remained to stare at him. And it's because I'm surprised to see someone save me from that hell hole.

"Are you hurt?"

He was panting.

Then, there goes a snap on his finger finally getting my full attention as I get back to my senses. "Oh?"

He scoffed at me after he realized he was talking to someone who wasn't even listening to what he was saying from the beginning.

"I'm asking you if you're okay," he said. "You were shaking so much earlier."

Like I said, my hand trembles if I feel scared. But, when it came to the point of feeling the extremity of death, my whole body trembled.

"No. I'm definitely fine," I replied, still staring at him. I kept wondering, how did he manage to–

"That's good to hear." His hands were put on his waists as he started to look around the place. "Did you come here all by yourself?"

I nodded at him. "I'm supposed to look for a hotel in Seoul."

He looked at me. His resting face is a little bit intimidating because of the way he glares at me with furrowed eyebrows.

"Which hotel?" He asked again.

I told him that the hotel where I'm going is a posh hotel in a contemporary skyscraper with views of the Han River.

"Well, it is an hour and eight minutes bus ride via Lotte World. It would be faster if you take a cab going there," he clearly explained.

"But, I kept looking online for a cab to book. There's no available ride. I have to get to the hotel before 7:00 p.m."

He suddenly looked at his wristwatch. "It's already 6:15 p.m."

"WHAT?!"

"Tsk!" He clicked his tongue as he put his hand inside his jean pockets.

What am I going to do now? I can't be late! I don't want my mom to get disappointed!

I was surprised when he suddenly grabbed my arm as we looked at each other. "Let's go."

"Huh?"

Without any hesitation, I ran alongside him going somewhere I don't even know. That's when I realized he was also grabbing my luggage. We just ran and ran like someone was chasing us. Until we reached another bus stop and finally there was a bus waiting already!

As we got inside, I noticed that he paid for my fare before he helped me find a place to sit. We sat beside each other as we pant continuously, then we accidentally looked at each other and shared a quiet laugh after realizing what we did was hilarious.

I gulped after laughing with him. "Why did you come with me?"

He was still panting. "I just can't let you go by yourself. Not at this time."

I tilted my head in confusion while staring at him. Is he somehow concerned about my safety?

"Are you worried about me?" I asked him straightforwardly.

His reaction changed a bit and he blushed for a short time. "W-Worried? Not really. But, if you call it like that, then yes."

I remained quiet while staring at him. I can see that he's feeling a bit embarrassed and uneasy.

"You're a lady. And it would be in my conscience if I ever let you go alone," he said.

I nodded at him. "May I know your name?"

He looked at me with a slight surprise in his eyes. "I'm Mizuki Ishikawa."

"Mizuki?" I asked him. "So, that means you are Japanese."

"Why? Do I look Korean to you?" He smirked. "Well, surprise. Because I am not."

I smiled as his name lingered on my lips, "Mizuki."

There's something that my old friends from the Philippines tell me. I easily declare someone as my friend whenever they become nice to me. They told me that I might get scammed if I continue with that kind of habit. But, I couldn't help it. If I think someone is nice to me or if they just show me kindness, I would fall for it and eventually trust them.

"How about you? Tell me your name." I looked back at him and he wasn't even looking at me.

"Isla," I said.

He looked at me. "Isla? Is that even a name? How do you spell it?"

"I-S-L-A," I replied.

"If that's the spelling, it should be pronounced as EES-lah."

I shook my head. "No. It's pronounced as EYE-lah. Just like when you say the word island."

"Oh... I see. Was it inspired from the island word?" He asked again.

"Yes. I'm from the Philippines and my country has 7,107 islands. And my name means devoted to God," I explained to him.

"Wow. Your parents must be really invested in giving you a rare name," he commented before chuckling.

I smiled before looking away from him and looking outside the bus window. There are so many people outside their homes. I wonder if there's some kind of festival going on...

"By the way, why are you going to Seoul?"

I looked at him again and he was already looking at me. "Today is my mom's wedding with her fiance."

"Wedding?"

"Yes. It will be her second marriage to this Korean businessman she met in our home country," I explained. "I'm happy for her though."

"You obviously are because if not, you won't even bother coming here, get in trouble, and be saved by me."

I frowned at him as I couldn't help but smile. Is he trying to boast about what he did?

"What are you smiling at?" He asked me.

"I can't believe I'll be telling you this, but... I think we can be friends now," I said.

"Already? You don't even get to spend the whole day with me and get to know me more for you to suddenly consider me as your friend," he told me.

Well, he's right. But, the kindness he showed earlier until now could be enough.

"How about you?" I suddenly changed the topic.

"What about me?"

"What are you doing here in Korea?" I asked. "Are you on some kind of vacation?"

"No. I'm an exchange student from Japan. I've been here for about three years already," he said.

"Wow. Three years? That means you're fluent in speaking Korean–"

"Don't even get me started..." He suddenly scoffed as he looked away from me.

I grinned and started teasing him. "Oh come on! You can be my language tutor."

"I don't think that's ever going to happen. I'm not even fluent in Japanese, so how am I going to speak in fluent Korean?"

I pouted as I leaned back on my seat. "Well, I won't blame you. It must be difficult to learn different languages."

"That's true. Even English is not widely spoken here unless you're a student from an international school," he explained.

"So, you must be from an international school," I smirked before I looked at him.

"I am." I didn't expect him to say that. When I was about to ask him which school he comes from, that's when I noticed our arrival at the Lotte World.

"This is our stop." Mizuki hurriedly took my luggage and we both went out of the bus. We also found ourselves standing near what seemed like an amusement park similar to Disneyland.

"I can't believe we arrived here in less than an hour." I heard him say that, so I looked at him. "We still have a few more minutes to walk to the hotel. Come on."

We started walking away from the amusement park and since Mizuki told me that the hotel I'm looking for will only be a walking distance, I trusted him that I would never be late for the event.

"Is this your first time traveling alone?" I heard him talking to me again.

"Yes. I had no other choice, but to follow my mom even though I have no one accompanying me to come here." I suddenly felt gloomy. "It's just me."

"What do you mean it's just you?" I looked at him again and he was just staring at me, waiting for my reply.

Should I tell him? I don't think it would concern him at all. Mostly, it's my life. Sigh... I think I just have to give him a small detail now that I trust him.

I turned my head down and I couldn't help but suddenly reminisce about the painful scenario I witnessed. "My dad passed away in a car crash. Three years ago."

My therapist told me not to think of anything that will remind me of the tragedy as part of my healing, but now... I have done a selfish thing. I waited for a few seconds after giving him my response, but I didn't hear anything from him. So, I glanced at him and saw his reaction looking sad.

"I... I'm sorry."

I smiled a bit before slightly shaking my head. "No. It's not your fault."

We remained silent from each other and just continued walking like we were strolling on the street. He must be feeling awkward now.

"If this is your first time here, you must be more aware of your surroundings." I looked at him as he suddenly spoke to me again. "The man earlier who tried to harass you, he looked like a decent businessman, right?"

"Yes. Why?"

"I used to always see him around the area lately and he's targeting women, most preferably foreigners like you who are alone. It's a daily routine for people like him who work under a company of adult films to do that," Mizuki explained.

"Adult films?"

Is he talking about pornography?!

Mizuki glanced at me and scoffed. "You're lucky I came to help you. I would admit since I saw you walking along the streets, I already knew you'd be targeted."

He's boasting his heroic acts again.

"I appreciate your heroism, my knight in shining armor," I told him with a smile and he smiled back at me.

I suddenly got distracted after I received a phone notification. And when I looked at it, I was shocked to see bombarded text messages from my mom. Twenty-three unread messages.

"Wait, what?" I talked to myself.

"Hey, what's wrong?" I heard Mizuki ask me.

I glanced at him before looking back at my phone. "She's asking where I am right now because someone named Eun-woo was looking for me."

"Do you know someone named Eun-woo?" Mizuki asked again.

I just shook my head as I continued to look for any messages left, even the previous ones. And I suddenly felt cold all over my body after reading one of the previous messages.

"Holy shit!"

"What is it again?"

"What should I do?!" I started to panic. "My mom is telling me to remain at the bus stop as someone will be fetching me. All I have to do is to look for a black Hyundai car with plate number 2872."

"So, the guy named Eun-woo must be the person who is supposed to fetch you from the bus stop going to the hotel," Mizuki cleared out.

That's when I also remembered seeing a car parked near the bus stop after Mizuki saved me from the perverted man in the alley. Was the black car that my mom told me about the same as the suspicious black car I saw earlier?

Mizuki approached me and looked at my phone. "When was this sent to you?"

"I'm not sure." I looked at him nervously. "What should I do?! I don't want to be scolded by my mom for not following the instructions!"

"Don't panic. I'm sure it's fine," he said calmly.

"Of course, it's not. And I'm not panicking. I'm just feeling anxious," I told him even though I am panicking. Lol.

"What are you so anxious about?"

"What if the car is still there waiting for me?"

"I'm pretty sure whoever is driving that car won't be stupid enough not to realize they are waiting for such a long time and tell your mom that you can't be found in the area," he explained.

I breathed out before nodding at him. "You're right. And it would be an idiot of me if I still go back there now that I'm almost near the hotel."

I continued walking, leaving Mizuki standing behind. It was already 6:30 p.m. when I last saw the time from my phone. I still have more time to prepare and it's already ten more minutes before we completely reach the hotel.

"Mizuki," I called him.

He glanced at me. "What is it?"

"Where can I find you?" I noticed the way I looked at him and I cannot deny the fact that I wanted to cry for a bit because I feel sad for separating ways from him.

He suddenly smiled at me, showing his gentle expression. It was totally different from the way his intimidating face was showing me before.

"Why do you want to find me?" He asked.

"Well–"

"It doesn't matter." He cut me off.

I was speechless with what he said. Maybe I'm really the only one to consider him my friend and he wasn't comfortable with me yet. The time is almost up and we are now standing in front of the hotel building. He handed me over my luggage and smiled at me.

"This is as far as I can go," he said. "It's nice meeting you, Isla."

I nodded at him and he smiled at me as a response before turning his back from me, ready to walk away. But, I was surprised when I suddenly held him in his hand.

"Wait, Mizuki..."

He stopped in his tracks and it took him a few seconds before turning to look at me. "What is it?"

"I wanted to thank you for saving my life. Words are not enough to return the favor," I told him.

He smiled at me again. "Don't worry. I will see you again, and then you can thank me properly."

He gently removed my hand from him and without hesitation, he started walking away. I watched him go further before I decided to turn my back away from his way and walked inside the hotel.

"Anata ni deaete yokatta!"

What the hell did he just say? I'm pretty sure he knows that I don't understand Japanese. Should I ask him back? I don't know. He might not answer me anymore even if I ask him again about what he said.

And as I walked inside the building, I couldn't help but think of him. I was really happy to have met him. I can't believe that my first impression after seeing him was that he's a rude and unethical person. But, he seemed much nicer than the people who only look nice from the outside.

When will be the next time I will see you, Mizuki?

ISLA

"The purpose of our activities on earth must go beyond bread and butter or merely surviving...."

ONE YEAR AGO

My mom and I were in the living room of our home. And I couldn't help but wonder why she suddenly brought a man who is not just any ordinary man. I was sitting across from him while my mom was sitting right next to me on the sofa. We were all silently observing one another.

"Isla, baby..." I heard my mom speak to me so I looked at her. She looked so serious right now. "This is Mr. Woo-jin Lee. He's my boss from the Philippines branch of the company called Grand Publishing."

I know that company. I mean, they produce both online pay-to-read novels and traditional published novels under the name of Grand Books. They're everywhere and very famous amongst teenagers.

I looked at the man as he started talking to me in courtesy. "It's nice to finally meet you, Isla. Forgive me for suddenly coming here to your home."

"Oh, please don't be. I invited you to our house." I heard from my mom and I saw the way he speaks to her boss. It's like they're... undeniably close to each other.

"Will you please get straight to the point?" I suddenly blurted out. I don't know if that went rude for them to hear, but I just wanted them to cut the chase.

I saw how they looked at each other. They're both nervous. But, my mom was the one to start the real conversation.

"Isla," she said. "I think I'm ready to settle with someone and get married for the second time."

Hearing that in all of sudden brought flashbacks of what I went through, two years ago. I could still hear the sound of rain and the ambulance sirens in my head.

"It's almost three years already and I think I've been grieving enough for your dad's death. I have thought about it many times before coming into this kind of situation," she continued. "Don't you think I deserve to be happy once again?"

Don't get it wrong. I'm listening to what my mom has been telling me right now, but I don't think I'm able to understand it at all. How can she move on so easily? While here I am, still longing for my dad's presence. Did my mom ever love my dad?

I gulped. "I don't know... mom."

I assumed that my response made them speechless. I also felt ashamed after I realized what I just said, the reason I got up from my seat and unable to look at their faces.

"I need to study."

I felt so bad for walking out of the conversation. I felt like I became rude, but what am I supposed to do? I don't want to get mad at them, mostly at my mom for finding her happiness with someone she loves. That would make me look like a bad daughter.

That meeting didn't go well. But, my mom was so eager to let me know every decision she's made about getting married once again. Slowly, I started to accept the fact that we all need to move on from that painful incident. The certain moment that changed our lives.

PRESENT TIME

It's already 7:00 p.m. and the event hasn't started yet. I'm waiting inside the room where I checked in and already dressed in white sleeveless swing dress with a vintage floral lace design.

The dress was paired with Badgley Mischka's women's pointed-toe pumps. And the fact that my feet are hurting even though I'm not even walking yet is just unbelievable. I'm not used to wearing high heels.

A little later, I was escorted out of the room with random people who introduced themselves to be working for Mr. Woo-jin until I was brought inside the function hall. I was assigned to a table that was placed a bit closer to the main stage where the quick wedding ceremony will be happening.

I sat down on one of the available chairs – there's actually only three chairs – from the assigned table and calmed myself down as I looked around to see if I'm able to find my mom. Ever since I arrived here at the hotel, I've not heard anything from her, not even a text. She must be really busy.

What kind of mom is she? Just because she's in love again like a maiden would be, she forgot about her daughter.

A few minutes later, the tables inside the hall are being occupied by the arriving guests. But, I noticed that the table where I am right now wasn't approached by any of the guests. I feel embarrassed for sitting alone here. I don't even know if this is the right place where I should be sitting.

Then, there was this announcement I never understood because it was said in Korean. After that, beautiful music played and that's when I realized the ceremony was already starting.

I'm gonna see my mom!

I quickly took my phone so that I could take a picture of her as she walked in the center going towards the stage. She was accompanied by Mr. Woo-jin and they looked so happy together.

I couldn't help but smile as I watched them. Then, I quickly switch from taking a photo to taking a video. However, I got distracted when someone went on the way where my phone camera was facing. Who the hell just blocked the view?

I lowered my phone before looking at the one who rudely blocked the camera and I saw a young man who is six feet in height. He doesn't look Korean at all, but he looks maturely cute...

"Is someone sitting here?" He asked me in English, referring to the chair on my right which I'm facing right now.

I shook my head dumbfoundedly and that's when he sat down there. I quickly look away from him, facing the table again. Argh! I wasn't able to take a video of my mom because of this dude!

The ceremony went on and since I'm the kind of person who gets bored easily, I noticed that no one has come up yet to our table to occupy the last chair. I just have to ignore it. Then, I decided to get on my phone just to browse online. People might think I'm being rude, but the only reason I am here is because of my mom.

"You must be her daughter..."

My attention went to the young man on my right side. Is he speaking to me? I was wondering how come he knew that I could understand English, the reason he kept talking to me?

"Are you referring to me?" I looked at him and he remained looking at the stage.

"You are Isla Encantar, right?" He asked. How did he know my name?

"Yes."

"I see."

That's it? Why did he even bother asking? I need to start a conversation with this one. I have a familiar feeling about him, I just can't confirm. Maybe if I tried talking to him more I will get to know what I need to know.

I put down my phone on top of the table and slightly faced him just to see if he's willing to talk. I waited for him to notice me, which he did after a few seconds.

"Do you want to say something?" He finally asked.

"I feel like I need to know your name," I told him.

"Are you hitting on me right now?"

Well... I didn't expect him to say that. He looks cute and I'm not even disappointed after he asked me that kind of question.

"Do I look like I'm hitting on you?" I questioned him.

"Yes."

That was such a cold reply. Fine.

I sighed as I looked away from him. "If you don't want to tell me your–"

"Ji-hoon." I looked at him again and he was already looking at the stage.

I nodded in acknowledgement. "It's nice to meet you, Ji-hoon."

I noticed how his eyes moved and they're kind of moving nervously as if he wanted to try and look at me, but he just can't do it.

"It's nice to meet you too," he replied. "Isla."

I couldn't help but smile at him after he said my name again. I don't know. I just feel happy when people call me by my first name. Very shallow of me, eh?

Ji-hoon and I maintained the slight awkwardness between us until slowly, he started talking to me comfortably.

"Are you fine with your mom getting married to him?" He suddenly asked.

"I don't mind to whom she gets married again. As long as she's happy with it, I'll be happy for her too," I said.

Ji-hoon nodded at me. "You must really be her daughter."

"What do you mean by that?" I scoffed at him, slightly insulted. Don't I look like my mom?

"You take after her personality of being considerate. Now, I believe you are her daughter," he commented.

I remained quiet after hearing what he said. Then, he looked at me before slightly smirking.

"Were you insulted with what I said?"

I pouted and looked away. "Not really."

"Okay," he said. "I'm sorry for insulting you."

GOSH! I ALREADY SAID I AM NOT!

At the end of the ceremony, I decided to go back to my room to take some rest since my mom and her husband would still be entertaining some guests. I would just wait for her to come to my room when she has free time.

On my way out of the hall, I was called by one of Mr. Woo-jin's staff again, telling me to come with them to a certain place inside the same hotel. But, on my way there, Ji-hoon unbelievably followed me.

"I have been looking for you earlier," he said.

Uh, why would he be looking for me?

"Oh, I'm sorry for leaving without telling you," I said kindly.

"No, it's okay." He continued walking alongside. "Where are you heading, by the way?"

"I'm not sure. They just told me to come with them to this certain area in the same hotel," I explained.

"I see. Let me come with you as well," Ji-hoon said.

I smiled at him. "Let's go, then."

After walking for a few moments, we reached another function hall, but this time it was a little smaller than the previous one. I don't know why I was brought here in the first place, not until I saw my mom show up together with Mr. Woo-jin.

"Mom?" I was surprised.

She opened her arms wide enough for me to go and give her a hug which I did. It's been a month for us not to see and be with each other, but here I am missing her like crazy.

"My baby..." She told me as she caressed my head. "I'm glad you arrived here safely."

We looked at each other after breaking the hug. "Of course! I won't be missing your wedding."

She smiled at me proudly. Then, Mr. Woo-jin caught my attention after he called my name.

"It's nice to see you again, Isla." He carefully and gently embraced me like he's my real dad. It has been a long time since I got hugged by a man.

After breaking our hug, they looked at Ji-hoon. They might think I'm hitting on some random guy already, that's why I decided to introduce him.

"Anyway, I would like to introduce you guys to this young man with me. His name is Ji-hoon and we just met today after sharing the same table earlier," I said. "Ji-hoon, this is my mom and with her is Mr. Woo-jin, her husband."

I noticed how they went in silence and it made me curious as to why they would react like that. Did I make them speechless? I hope they don't think I'm bluffing for introducing a guy at the same time as their wedding event.

I was surprised when Ji-hoon suddenly laughed, then he was followed by my mom, and lastly Mr. Woo-jin. I don't know why they're laughing right now, but I'm very curious to know.

"W-Why are you guys laughing? Did I say something funny?" I couldn't even manage to smile.

My mom approached me and clinged on my left arm. "Baby, don't you remember Ji-hoon?"

I looked at her in question. "What do you mean?"

"I guess Isla hasn't seen Ji-hoon before..." I looked at Mr. Woo-jin. "But, I remembered introducing him to her back then."

I honestly don't know what they're talking about. Mr. Woo-jin introduced Ji-hoon to me back then? When was that? Maybe I didn't pay any attention when he did that.

"Ji-hoon is my younger son," Mr. Woo-jin said.

After hearing that statement, that's when I started to recall the conversation I had with them where Mr. Woo-jin casually told me about his two sons, and the name I could only remember is Ji-hoon. Now, I know why he seemed familiar to me.

I looked at Ji-hoon and he was just smiling at me. "So that means..."

"My name is Ji-hoon Lee," he fully introduced himself.

I got pranked! How could I know he's Mr. Woo-jin's son? He doesn't even look like him! He doesn't look Korean although his name is all Korean. His mother must be non-Korean.

"Ji-hoon will be your step brother. Don't worry, you don't have to adjust yourself because you're the same age as him," Mr. Woo-jin said.

I looked at Ji-hoon again and he was just staring at me like he's very interested in me. I can't believe he thought that I was hitting on him earlier with him knowing that we're step siblings.

"Speaking of your sons, honey..." My mom turned to look at her husband and just hearing her call him like that slightly creeped me. "I didn't see Eun-woo."

Mr. Woo-jin looked at me. "The one who sent you here is my older son, Eun-woo. Did he come with you here?"

The one who sent me...

Oh shocks! Are they saying that the one who is supposed to be fetching me from the bus stop while riding a black car is the same Eun-woo who is Mr. Woo-jin's older son?!

I automatically covered my mouth in shock which made Ji-hoon immediately figure out the reason for his sudden laughter.

"I..."

I don't know if I should tell them the truth. What would happen if I told my mom that I went with some random guy and allowed him to send me here? She might smack me for that carelessness of mine.

"Uh... well, about that–"

"I'm here."

A deep, but refreshing voice caught our attention which made me turn around to look who just spoke behind us. There was this other young man with six feet in height just like Ji-hoon who arrived wearing a black suit. However, this time he looked just like the younger version of Mr. Woo-jin.

And he's undeniably handsome and very manly. His sex appeal is just out of this world, enough to make his surroundings glimmer. He looked like those webtoon male characters which is really unrealistic if you see in real life. It's just unbelievable!

"Eun-woo, you're here..." Mr. Woo-jin called him.

"Congratulations to the two of you," Eun-woo told them plainly.

Why does he sound so bored?

"Thank you for taking care of my daughter by bringing her here safely," my mom told him.

I noticed how Eun-woo glared at me while both his hands were inside his pockets. Will he tell them that he wasn't the one who took me here? I'm so doomed if he does!

He sighed. "I won't do it again."

THAT'S COLD AF! But, he didn't tell them the truth. Why?

ISLA

"I am a chaotic angel and you are a peaceful devil..."

ONE MONTH AGO

I've been really distracted lately with my studies after I finally agreed to come to my mom's wedding next month. I didn't dislike the idea of coming to South Korea just to attend her wedding, but she even told me to think about transferring there to continue studying my course.

"You can continue studying your chosen course in SADI," she said.

"SADI?" I asked cluelessly. "Are you talking about the top-ranked international university in Seoul?"

"Yes. If you attend there, your future will surely be secured," she continued. "Think about it."

I turned around to look at her while I'm still sitting on the office chair. "I'm pretty sure that you know how much their tuition fee is..."

My mom remained silent while staring at me. Is she being serious?

"SADI's tuition fee for international students costs about $4,500 which is almost 240,000 in Philippine peso. I don't think we can afford that expense just for my studies," I explained to her. "I'll stay here and finish my studies."

"But–"

"Don't worry about me, mom. I can take care of myself," I told her as I turned my back on her and continued answering my activity sheets.

"I understand." I listened to how her footsteps sounded as she walked out of my room, and then the door gently closed.

The day before her flight to Seoul, she informed me about Mr. Woo-jin's sudden decision when it came to my transfer at SADI. I have no idea that he was the founder of that university since I don't really pay attention to further details.

"He really wants to provide you the best education and that's why he decided to offer you a slot for free," my mom explained. "All you need to do is to finish your junior year here and then apply as a senior student in the same course at SADI."

I sighed quietly before looking at my mom's eyes. "Do you really want me to live with you there?"

"Of course, baby. I do." She approached me and held me in her bosoms. "I don't want to be separated from you ever again."

I can't seem to blame her for what happened to my dad. After all, she is my mother... even if she had left us and came back a little later to tell us how much she regretted leaving our family. I think she already made up for it.

PRESENT TIME

It has been a few hours already since the wedding event. Before going straight to their honeymoon destination which is in the Maldives, my mom asked me if it would be okay for me to check out of the hotel and begin staying at this penthouse that her husband had just recently purchased for me.

Since I'm not going back to the Philippines in the meantime because I also agreed to finish my college with the same course in SADI, they thought it would be nice for me to have a permanent place to live. But, buying me my own penthouse is too much not to mention I'm just his stepdaughter.

Nevermind. I'm thankful though.

And now, I can't believe I'm already walking inside a very luxurious penthouse. I also came alone at the penthouse since I heard that Ji-hoon went to meet with his group of friends, while Eun-woo was nowhere to be found. I guess they have their own worlds.

When I finally reached the fifth floor where the main entrance was, I was completely clueless while standing in front of the closed door. The surrounding area has been decorated with so many beautiful indoor flowers. They're fragrant as well and it was my first time smelling natural fragrances from flowers.

The place is beautiful... but is there even someone available to talk to?

I waited for about a minute before trying to knock on the front door where I could see a keypad. There's still no one answering. So, I took my phone to contact my mom and tell her that there was no one answering the door.

However, when I was about to press the call button, I heard the sound of one of the elevators behind me – since there are two elevators – and saw a beautiful woman carrying a bunch of shopping bags from different signature apparel brands.

"WELCOME!" She managed to greet me with a smile even though she already looked like a walking clothes hanging rack.

Out of kindness, my body voluntarily tried to help her, but she just rejected it nicely. "Good evening, ma'am. I'm the–"

"Let's skip the formalities. You may call me Soo-jin and I know who you are." She suddenly put down all the shopping bags and panted for a few seconds before smiling at me. "You're Isla."

I smiled at her back. "Yes. But, may I ask how did you know me?"

"My brother told me you'll be coming to stay here," she explained.

Brother? Is she talking about Mr. Woo-jin? Wow. Just like the rest of her family members, she's fluent in conversational English.

"Well, let's go inside now, Isla." She carefully picked up the bags again while I was just watching her.

"You seem to have trouble with all those bags. Are you sure you wouldn't need any help?" I asked her. "I'm willing to help."

"Well, then... could you please kindly open the door for me?" I quickly did what she asked me and he successfully got inside the apartment as I followed her inside.

I carefully observed what was inside the room and what I first encountered was a bathroom, and a kitchen which is already connected to a dining room and the living room. I was too stunned to speak after seeing what the interior design looks like.

In the double-height living room, a daybed covered in a burnt wood-designed fabric and accented by a black and white throw pillow is joined by several vintage pieces, including a shiny black-colored vase-style side table and cocktail table, and grayish-blue sofa.

The artwork – The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli – is above the fireplace which is near the 1950s table lamps which seem to be from an antique auction, and lastly, the custom-made silk rug.

"Have a seat and I will have to bring these to where they really belong. I'll be right back..." She left me in the living room and went somewhere further inside the apartment.

I sat down on the sofa and made myself comfortable while waiting for her to finish her business with the bags. A little later, she went back to the living room while wearing the prettiest smile I've ever seen.

"I'm sorry about that."

"No, it's fine. I don't mind." I smiled back at her.

Then, she went straight to the kitchen. "Would you like to have a drink? We have all kinds."

"All kinds?" I talked to myself. Does that mean they have liquors too? Damn.

"What would you like, Isla?" I saw her peeking at me from the kitchen.

"Oh, can I please have some water?" I said as I scratched the back of my head. "I don't really drink."

She gestured OK before going back inside the kitchen. After a few seconds, Soo-jin went back to the living room holding a glass of water and handed it over to me.

"Thank you." I slightly bowed my head before watching her take a seat on the opposite sofa.

"It's nice to finally meet you in person, Isla. You know, my oppa (older brother) mentioned about you several times before this day."

Soo-jin calling Mr. Woo-jin oppa, it could mean that he is her older brother. Then, that means Soo-jin will be my step-aunt. How should I address her?

"If Mr. Woo-jin is your older brother, what should I be addressing you?" I asked her, just in case.

"I don't like being called imo (aunt) by younger people. Even Eun-woo and Ji-hoon never call me that," she murmured.

"What do they call you?"

"They call me noona (older sister) because I asked them to," she explained. "So, for you... call me eonni (older sister). Will that be fine?"

"Yes. It's totally fine with me. I just have to get used to it," I said with a smile.

"You should stop calling Woo-jin oppa mister. Start calling him appa (dad), dad, or stepdad. It will make you guys more comfortable with each other, trust me," she added.

I hope it's that easy for me to call somebody else my dad. There's only one man in my life that I would want to call my dad... so, I'm not even sure about this one.

"May I know what he says about me?" I asked cautiously.

"Are you talking about Woo-jin oppa?" She asked and I nodded in response.

I hope it's not a negative thing.

"Well, he said that it will be a wish come true for him to have a daughter," she replied. "As you can see, he only has two sons and they're both firstborn."

I was caught off-guard with that one. I thought Ji-hoon is his youngest son?

"Oh, by the way... have you met them already? Eun-woo and Ji-hoon."

"Yes. Mr. Woo-jin even mentioned Ji-hoon as his youngest son," I revealed.

Soo-jin scoffed as she crossed her arms in front of her chest. "Oppa did that? Whoa..."

"Why?" I asked her in curiosity.

"Well, it's not a big deal actually." She crossed her legs. "I think Woo-jin oppa only said that because Ji-hoon is his second firstborn."

Second firstborn... That sounds complicated.

"What do you mean by that?" I asked her.

"Look, I'm not supposed to tell you this–"

I immediately shake my hands in front of her. "You may not tell me. It's okay!"

"Hmm..." She was speechless at first. "No, I will tell you."

NO WAY!

"But, pretend that you didn't hear it from me. Okay?" She added. I nodded so hard at her like my head was about to fall off its place. Lol.

In the end, Soo-jin told me that Eun-woo and Ji-hoon have different mothers. Eun-woo's mother is Chinese-Korean which means he has blood of both nationalities. Meanwhile, Ji-hoon's mother is Turkish, and that's why he doesn't look purely Korean.

After our fun facts conversation, Soo-jin decided to show me my bedroom inside the apartment. As we walked to my room, I noticed the other three rooms and wondered why there were so many rooms.

"Eonni," I called her. "Why are there so many rooms?"

"Those are your step brothers' rooms," she mentioned.

WHAT?!

I thought I'm the only one who gets to live here! Mr. Woo-jin never told me about living with my stepbrothers. I thought my mom also said this penthouse was bought for me! What is going on?!

We finally arrived at the last room on the dead-end of the bedroom hallways and as soon as the door was opened, I saw a wide room embracing the clean, modern style interior that takes a turn toward trendy mid-century modern design with a warm, cozy color scheme. I didn't even expect how wide it is for one person to occupy.

Soo-jin entered the room and started looking around as if she was checking something in every corner. "Come in and see for yourself."

As I got inside, the first thing that caught my sight was the bathroom. I can't believe I have my own bathroom. I also have my own cabinet and study desk with a set of monitors, a keyboard, and a system unit. Then, I saw the generous balcony that truly left me mesmerized, offering a brilliant bird's-eye view of the city and the beautiful Han River.

Is this really my room?

"So, do you like it?" I heard Soo-jin, only to find herself coming inside my bedroom again while holding a trash bag. I didn't notice she left me alone.

I looked at her in confusion and she approached me while still scanning the whole room. I couldn't help but stare at her in complete confusion.

"What is that?"

"Oh, this?" She looked at the trash bag she was holding. "These are just used tissues."

"Tissues?" I questioned cluelessly.

"You know, man stuff." She winked at me after saying that.

And that's when I realized what she meant. I suddenly felt flustered and shy. Why did I even ask her about that? Gosh!

After I put my stuff inside my room, I went back to the living room together with Soo-jin. I watched how she prepared my dinner since it was just 9:00 p.m. I already ate dinner at the hotel, but the food is really not that good. That's why I'm eating again.

A little later, Soo-jin decided to leave the penthouse after she received a phone call. She was told to look for Eun-woo and keep him away from trouble. I don't exactly know what that means, but I guess he is a troublemaker.

"Wait, eonni!" I called her after she got out of the apartment. Then, she stopped in her tracks before looking at me. "Will Ji-hoon come here?"

"Oh dear, I have no idea. These guys tend to live outside than live here inside the penthouse," she replied. "Don't worry. I'll tell Ji-hoon to accompany you if he gets to leave early from hanging out with his friends."

I nodded at her and she just waved goodbye at me before going towards the elevator. I sighed heavily as I closed the main door and looked back at the whole room before putting both my arms on the sides of my waist.

How am I going to do with the following days now?

Even though I'm friendly and easy to approach, I'm still not that good when it comes to dealing with people and I will never be. I'm not even sure if I could get along with my stepbrothers that easily.

I headed back to my bedroom to take a shower before changing into a new one. After changing into my conservative type of PJs, I left my room and went straight to the kitchen to eat the dinner that Soo-jin prepared. After that, I washed the dishes. While in the middle of washing the dishes, I suddenly heard the main door open.

The impact of how it was opened was seriously loud after it hit the wall. I hurried to see who had just come in and I saw Eun-woo being brought by a woman. Could it be his girlfriend?

I immediately looked away from them after Eun-woo suddenly hugged her. I was so flustered that I froze at the moment and in my stance, now that I feel like their attention was completely on me.

This is so embarrassing.

I suddenly heard the woman speaking to me but in Korean. She sounded like she was asking me, I just don't know what type of question. She could be asking who am I or what am I doing inside the penthouse of her boyfriend?

I decided to look at them again and saw Eun-woo looking at me with a puckish forehead. He seemed flushed and obviously drunk mostly when he started to laugh like crazy.

I just watched the two of them stand there when he suddenly vomited and it made the woman immediately feel gross and overreacted by making noises of being grossed out. Eun-woo continued vomiting until the woman couldn't take it anymore and she left the room voluntarily.

"Hey! You can't leave him be!" I called for the woman, but she didn't even look back.

As I glanced at Eun-woo, he was already lying on the floor, trying his best to take some rest after getting wasted. "I can't believe you're going to be my stepbrother."

I sighed before quietly walking across him just to close the door and after that, I went back to the kitchen to finish washing the dishes, then I hurriedly went inside my room.

I ate the snacks which I brought here all the way from the Philippines while I was in the middle of binge-watching my favorite TV series. I didn't even realize I had already fallen asleep and woke up in a shock after having a dream of falling from a great height. I decided to go out of the room cautiously to throw away the snack packs since I still don't have a trash bin inside the room.

I quietly went out of my room and tiptoed so that I wouldn't create any unnecessary noises. Before I could even reach the kitchen, I noticed that Eun-woo was still lying on the floor near the door. I can't believe he's still asleep. It has been an hour already. Now, I'm being disturbed by my conscience that tells me I should help him.

Sometimes being kind is exhausting and dangerous.

I let out a sigh before finally helping my troublemaker stepbrother. I kneeled beside him and was cautious to even touch him. But, like trash, I need to keep him off the floor and loitering around the place. I supported him by placing his lifeless arm around my nape and then I held him by the waist. When I was about to help him get up, I noticed his weight was impossible for me to handle and help him stand.

So, I decided to wake him up. It would be easy for me to guide him if he's conscious because he'll be aware that he needs to move as well. I tried to gently pat his shoulders.

"Hey, I need you to wake up..."

I waited like a few minutes, but he's still sleeping. He even snored loudly and shocked me to the core. So, I tried poking his head.

Still no response.

That's when I decided to pinch his cheeks. But, before I could even touch them, he suddenly grabbed my hand. Then, he slowly looked up at me with a stern look seen from his dark brown eyes. I felt uncomfortable at the moment because of how he looked at me.

The only idea I came to think of was to stand up and stay away from him since he looked like he was fully aware of what was going on. But, his hand holding a grip of mine didn't even budge.

I gulped nervously. "Can you please let go of my hand?"

He stared at me for a few seconds before he slightly shook his head saying, "No."

After disagreeing with me, he suddenly held me by my nape before pulling me towards him and getting both our faces close to each other. I was caught off guard by what he did, the reason I wasn't able to avoid it anymore.

He didn't say anything and we remained to stare at each other as I could smell the alcohol from him. Although the smell was unpleasant, I couldn't take my eyes off him. He's just really like a webtoon character.

"You're... ugly."

What the fuck did he just call me?

"I can't believe my step-sister is as ugly as you," he continued before smirking and letting go of my nape.

I was too stunned to speak as I watched him try his best to balance himself as he got up from the floor, and just casually walked away going to his bedroom. Did I hear it right? He just called me ugly.

HE CALLED ME UGLY!

I hurriedly stood up from the floor and screamed like a crazy person as I charged towards him. When he turned to look at me, it was too late for him to dodge my attack and we both fell on the floor again after he caught me in his arms.

I heard his grunt at the same time I was over his body and gripping his shirt near the neck area. "Did you just call me ugly, huh? Did you?!"

His widened eyes tell me he's pretty scared for his life right now while I'm overpowering him. "Not only ugly, but you're also crazy!"

"Oh really?!" I scoffed. "You don't know what will happen to you for calling me ugly and crazy, you jerk!"

I quickly raised my hand, ready to hit him when everything escalated quickly and he held me by my waist, before turning me over. Now, he's the one above me and I was lying on the floor, helplessly. My courage quickly went down to cowardness mostly after he pinned both my arms on the floor and both sides of my head.

He slowly smirked at me with a drunk lust seen from his eyes. "Tell me. What can you do now in this position?"

I could only breathe nervously while looking at him. The way he enclosed me with his arms and body felt like I'm locked up in a dungeon with him acting as the ferocious lion, ready to devour me. I don't know what's happening to me, that I cannot even speak and tell him to get off of me. I am at a loss for words...

The longer I stare at him the soon I realize his face getting closer to mine.

Is he going to kiss me?!

"Mhmp!" I grunted as I tried to turn my head away from him, but he was still following it. "No!"

At the same time as I said the word NO, I also heard a loud bang coming from something made out of a tin. And then, I felt the guy fall above me, the reason for me to scream out loud. However, Soo-jin came to my rescue.

"Hey, hey. Calm down," she said. "You're fine now."

I stared at her in complete shock while she tried to push Eun-woo over my side and away from me. I quickly crawled away from them with a horrified look in my eyes.

"Did you hit him..." I looked at the tin basin. "...with that one?"

Soo-jin looked at me with a laugh on her face. "Yes. Don't worry, he's not yet dead."

"I thought he's supposed to be," I said.

"What? How could you kill your stepbrother?" Soo-jin said. "Plus, he's my nephew."

"He's a perverted jerk!"

Soo-jin got up and took the tin basin before going to the kitchen to fill it with water from the sink. I decided to follow her.

"Why is he acting like that? He almost harassed me," I complained.

"My nephew can be anything except for being a pervert. He will never harass anyone, mostly women," she said.

"You didn't even see what he did to me!" I pointed out my index finger somewhere that would make her understand I'm pointing at Eun-woo.

Soo-jin turned to face me and gave me a plain reaction. "He's a drunk man."

"So, what? What if he's a man and he's drunk? He shouldn't have done that to me," I continued.

"Alright. I understand your frustration. And on behalf of him and what he did, I apologize." Soo-jin turned off the faucet from the sink before approaching me.

She held my hand and I remained to stare at her. "How about we let him make it up to you tomorrow?"

"And what is he gonna do?" I asked her.

"It would be a secret, honey." She held me on both my shoulders before turning me around. "Now, you go to bed while I'll take care of him and all the mess he did inside this apartment."

She pushed me away gently. I took a glance at her and she just smiled at me, so I ignored everything and went inside my bedroom to take some rest. What a nightmare.