Who Waits for Love?
Kelsey A Park
** This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are products of the author's imagination or are used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or real is purely coincidental.**
Copyright © 2018 KAP/PPK
All rights reserved.
ISBN: 1727433769
ISBN-13: 978-1727433760
DEDICATION *
To my baby girl, Kaia Rei, I love you more than words, you are my everything!
To Xiumin, you inspired me to follow my dreams, no matter where they take me. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
In loving memory of
Kim JongHyun.
Always know you did well.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS *
Special thanks to Park Productions Korea, Joana A. Park, Choua Vang Lee, Alex Sandra Alverio, Soora Park.
Extra special thank you to Byun BaekHyun, Park chanyeol, Kim JongIn, Do KyungSoo, Oh Sehun, Kim JongDae, Kim JunMyeon, and Zhang Yixing
You know that saying “When you’re not looking for it, love will find you”.
Do you believe that?
I mean if you’re not looking why would that happen?
Love is so overrated.
I woke up this morning feeling bitter. I’m a single woman with a promising career.
I’m intelligent.
I think I’m good looking.
Why was I still single?
As I drove to work I couldn’t help but think about my future. All my friends were attached or about to get married and then there was me.
“I’m going to be an old lady with many cats.” I said to myself as I reached for my ringing phone.
“Hello?” I said
“Hey, are you on your way yet?” Alex asked.
“Yeah, I’ll be there shortly. There’s a lot of traffic today. Plus I need to stop downtown to drop off my documents for my passport.” I replied with a sigh.
“Ok, drive safe. See you soon.” She replied with a pause then hung up.
I parked my car and ran across the street.
There were so many people out today. I had to make my way in between people to get to the building.
As I rushed in, the elevator was about to close.
“Please hold the elevator.” I said out loud as I approached it.
“Thank you!” I said as I entered.
The elevator seemed to stop on every floor.
I stared at the floor as people got in and out.
I noticed a pair of shoes that didn’t moved throughout the ride. I slowly glanced up. They were connected to a person that had very nice taste. I slowly followed up his nice slacks then up his shirt to his face.
I was very impressed.
He smiled and turned away. I lost track of what I was doing while staring at him.
“Is this your floor?” He asked.
I snapped out of it and smiled.
“Thank you!” I said as I exited the elevator.
I turned back to see he was looking at me so I smiled again.
“Do you have your all your documents?” The lady at the counter said.
I nodded yes as I handed her the folder.
“Sign here and here.” The lady instructed.
I paused as she slid the papers over for me to sign. I looked up at her and smiled.
“Ok. You will hear from us in a few weeks. Do you have any other questions or concerns?” She said as she slid the papers back to herself across the table.
I nodded no and began to walk away.
“I need a vacation.” I said to myself as I made my way out the office.
“Call us if you think of any questions?” She said as I exited the office.
I waved and walked quickly to the elevator and left the building.
“Now to work I go. What a life? It’s so predictable” I said to myself as I walked slowly to my car.
I felt my life draining right out of me with every step. I need a change. I needed to get out and do something for me. I heard a phone ring in the distance. It happened to be my phone at the bottom of my purse.
“Hello?” I said softly.
“Hi Zara, you done yet?” Alex said.
“Yeah! I’ll be there soon. I hope it’s not too busy.” I replied.
“Nah. It’s quiet now. Just lonely making the pastries.” Alex sighed with a giggle.
“Oh my gosh, really Alex? I’m sure they are waiting for me to arrive.” I said as I unlocked my car and got in.
“Why do you sound so sad today?” Alex inquired.
“I don’t know, girl stuff I guess. I have been thinking of my future and its bumming me out.” I added.
“Why don’t you take a weekend off and go to Pohang?” Alex suggested.
“What’s in Pohang?” I asked.
“That beach festival we went to a few years back. We had fun. Take the weekend and clear your mind.” Alex added.
“Hmmm, That might be nice.” I thought.
“Seriously, think about it. Maybe you might meet someone there.” Alex said jokingly.
“Oh No! Not interested in that. Maybe the beach though. I need serenity.” I said.
“Yes the beach is always relaxing. The warm sand and the rushing waves. You should do it!” Alex insisted.
“What about the bakery?” I asked.
“I’m the boss. I can handle it. Plus I’m giving you the weekend off. Take advantage of it cause you know it’ll never happen again.” Alex stated.
“Ok. I’ll look into it. But I’m not promising anything.” I agreed.
What do I have to lose?
The peace of the ocean would be nice. Might as well cheer myself up and do something nice for me, for once. As I arrived at the bakery Alex handed me a brochure.
“What’s this?” I asked.
“It’s that festival I told you to go to.” Alex replied as she restocked the cupcake window.
I smiled as I read about the festival.
“I hope you will go. It going to be fun.” Alex teased.
“How do you know? Why are you pushing me to go? Do you have something planned?” I said as I sipped my coffee.
“No! I just booked a room for you at a hotel by the beach.” Alex added with a cheesy grin.
“What? I haven’t decided yet, Alex. Why would you do that?” I said surprised.
“Zara, you need this. You deserve this. Go and relax. My treat, girl.” Alex said as she hugged me.
“Damn Alex, you are so pushy.” I mumbled.
“Thank so much! I appreciate it.” I added as I hugged her.
“Go pack and pamper yourself while you are there.” Alex said.
I smiled and walked towards the door. Alex motioned for me to go. So I blew her a kiss.
I went home to prepare for the 3 hour drive.
“What do I pack?” I said as I rummaged through my closet and threw things on my bed.
“No need for this.” I said as I threw aside sexy lingerie.
“This might be nice.” I said as I grabbed my bikini.
I lay on my bed and stared at the ceiling. My mind caught up with me and I immediately felt drained.
“You know what? I’m going to have fun. I deserve a good time.” I said out loud snapping myself out of the funk.
Right then I received a text message from Alex.
“Be sure to text me when you check in. And please have fun!” It read.
I smiled as I read.
Morning came really fast.
I was anxious to go but starving so I passed by the bakery on my way out.
“Good morning.” I said cheerfully
“Good morning, what are you doing here?” Alex said surprised.
“I’m starving for one of your famous maple bacon donuts.” I said with a smile.
Alex smiled and handed me one.
“Can I get some coffee too?” I said with a pouty lip.
Alex nodded and handed me a cup.
“Are you heading out soon?” Alex asked.
“Yes, I should be in Pohang around 10 am.” I replied.
“Ok, no stops in between. Straight there and text me when you arrive.” Alex instructed.
I smiled and nodded.
“Sorry but I worry.” Alex replied.
“It’s ok. Thank you so much for this. I love you.” I said.
“No problem. Go have fun and you never know, you might come back extra happy.” Alex joked.
“Ha Ha! I’m going to relax not go on a hot date.” I responded with laugh.
“Hey you never know, girl. Open up to the possibilities.” Alex said with a laugh.
“Yeah, yeah, I’m out. See you Monday.” I added.
“Drive safe and here take another for the drive. I love you too.” Alex said as she handed me another donut.
I winked and walked out.
“Ok, here we go. Fun times ahead.” I said to myself as I began my drive.
The drive was smooth.
So many beautiful views on the way. I couldn’t wait to arrive at my destination. The closer I got the more anxious I became. So many people were here for this festival but I longed to be alone and relax. I was in awe at the view of the hotel Alex booked for me.
“Wow! Alex went all out.” I said to myself as I pulled into the parking lot. I got out and quickly removed my luggage from the trunk and made my way into the hotel.
As I checked in, I looked around.
The hotel was so fabulous.
The lobby was beautiful.
I slowly walked towards the elevator as I looked at my key.
“Oh! The 11th floor, awesome!” I said as I entered the elevator.
In the distance I hear someone say “Hold the elevator.”
The gentlemen got in and stood looking towards the door. At the next stop another person got in. I stared at the floor as the elevator stopped at almost every floor. As I glanced over, I see a nice pair of shoes that looked familiar. I slowly raise my gaze to see the gentleman they were attached to.
“Oh my gosh, can this be the same guy from the passport office?” I thought to myself.
I lowered my glance as I saw him look towards me.
“No way, what are the chances?” I said to myself.
He noticed me look away and smiled.
He stepped towards the back of the elevator where I was, as the next person got out.
“Do I know you?” He said as we both stood in the elevator.
“I don’t think so.” I said as I looked at the doors of the elevator.
“You seem so familiar.” He said with a sweet smile.
I nodded and look towards the opening door.
“What is your name?” He asked with a smile as I began to walk towards the elevator door.
“Zara, what’s your name?” I said as I began to step out.
“My name is MinSeok. Nice to meet you.” He replied.
As I walked out I slowly turned to him, smile and said “Have a nice day, MinSeok!”
He bowed his head and smiled.
“I hope to see you again Zara.” He added as the doors closed.
As I entered the hotel room the smile on my face was undeniable.
“It was him. Wow! He is so handsome. Those beautiful eyes, ughhh.” I said like a school girl with a crush.
I looked around the room as I entered. I put my luggage aside and walked towards the window to check out the view.
“What should I do today?” I said out loud as I scanned the shopping area below.
“Window Shopping it is.” I said with a giggle.
I began to unpack as my cell phone rang.
“Hello?” I said with a cheerful tone.
“Well?” Alex said sounding upset.
“Sorry mom! I just got here. I was just about to text you but you beat me to it. It’s beautiful here Alex, thank you so much.” I gushed.
“I’m glad you like it and that you arrived safely. But I’m calling to tell you what happened!” Alex hesitated.
“What’s up? Is everything ok? See I shouldn’t have left.” I replied concerned.
“Relax! Everything is peachy. Just you won’t believe who was here, minutes after you left.” Alex exclaimed.
“Who?” I asked.
“Jackson” Alex responded.
I paused trying to think of who she was talking about.
“Who’s Jackson?” I asked.
“JACKSON!!! How can you not know Jackson! Idol, Singer, My dream man.” Alex shouted.
“Oh my gosh! He came to our shop?!” I asked.
“Yeah! He wants some pastries. He’s on his way there to perform in Pohang Festival!” Alex replied.
“Oh wow! Maybe I’ll go see his show.” I said excitedly.
“Girl, have a great time. I’m so jealous!” Alex said.
“But if you bump into him, get me an autograph!” She ordered.
“Okay. Love you.” I said as I laughed and hung up.
I stood there thinking about what to do.
I grabbed my stuff and went in and took a shower. I couldn’t help but think of the handsome man.
“Could it be a sign?” I thought as I shampooed my hair.
I suddenly began to laugh.
“A sign of what?” I answered myself as I rinsed.
I got out and contemplated going out or staying in.
I lay on the bed and watch television but I became restless.
“Get up girl, this is vacation time, let’s go out and explore.” I said trying to motivate myself.
I was going to be here a few days so why not catch up on some sleep too.
“I’ll take a nap to get over the drive then go out for a rejuvenating walk later.” I decided with a laugh.
I had never slept so good.
The peace and quiet was great! I stretched as I got out of bed. The view from my bed was incredible. The afternoon was so beautiful, so it was time for a stroll. I got prepared and quickly made my way downstairs and out the hotel.
There were so many people out and about. I guess everyone had the same idea as Alex did.
“Do you need a taxi or a map?” The concierge asked.
“No thank you! I’m going to explore.” I replied and a wave.
“Ok. Have a fun time.” The concierge replied.
As I walked, I felt a feeling of calmness.
The air was so fresh and cool. The smell of ocean water was invigorating.
The first place I walked up on was a sweet café. I went in to get a drink to accompany me on my walk.
As I walked out I heard live music so I went in that direction. As I got closer I couldn’t help but recognize the voice.
“It can’t be. OMG! Really?” I said as I saw Jackson performing on the boardwalk.
“This vacation is going to be great! So many talents and so little time.” I commented to myself.
I stood there for a few minutes, just listening. He had such a beautiful voice.
As he sang, he scanned the crowd and his sight set on where I was.
Our eyes met for a second. It kinda freaked me out.
I became nervous, turned around quickly and began walking fast with my head down. As I walked I watched my feet so I would not trip or bump into anyone. I was so awkward.
The crowd seemed to move with me so I had a way out but then everyone suddenly stopped. I glanced forward to see what was going on but I couldn’t see. I kept my gaze down as I waited but no one seemed to move. As I raised my gaze up again I came eye to eye with MinSeok. He smiled and made his way towards me. I looked away as if I didn’t see him.
“Hello, again?” He said.
“Oh, Hi!” I replied acting surprised.
“You know this is the line for the bathroom, right?” He questioned.
“Oh is it?” I said surprised.
No wonder it wasn’t moving. How embarrassing is that. He gently grabbed my arm and led me towards an open area.
“Have you been here before?” He asked.
I shook my head no.
“It’s a great festival. There is a lot to do. If you don’t mind I can be your guide.” He said with the sweetest smile.
“Sure” I said with a smile.
“Where shall we begin?” He said as he looked around the festival.
“Come this way.” He said as he grabbed my hand.
I smiled and followed.
“So Zara, what brings you to Pohang?” He asked.
“Mini Vacation.” I replied with a smile.
“So are you looking to have a fun time or something more relaxed?” He added.
I shrugged my shoulders and smiled. He smiled back and led me to where they were having a culture exchange performance. He smiled as I watched intently.
“Is this fun enough?” He whispered in my ear.
I smiled and nodded, it was ok. We watched for a bit then he smiled and tugged at my hand.
“Let’s go over there.” He whispered pointing in another direction.
“What’s going on there?” I asked hesitantly.
“Do you mind getting a little wet?” He said with a smirk.
“What? Why?” I asked as he pulled me in that direction.
“It’ll be fun. Come on. Don’t be so prissy.” MinSeok said as he led me to another part of the area.
“That’s a water gun fight.” I said as I pulled in the opposite direction.
He nodded yes as he pulled me into it.
It looked like fun and what did I have to lose. I came here to have fun. So why not?
MinSeok handed me a gun and smiled.
He suddenly said “GO!” and begins shooting at some people who were in a pen area. I didn’t know what to do so I began shooting too. He suddenly turns his gun towards me and shoots me with water. I screamed because I was startled. He smiled and opened his arms as in to give me a free shot at him, so of course I took it. He smiled and closed his eyes. He then grabbed my hand and pulled me out of the crowd.
“Was that fun?” MinSeok said laughing.
“Oh my gosh, Yes.” I agreed with a laugh.
“Lucky it is sunny out, we can dry up as we get some food, what do you think?” MinSeok suggested.
“Sure. Of course, that would be nice.” I added.
We walked slowly to the food area and found a table.
“What would you like to eat? There are many different things to choose from.” MinSeok asked.
“Hmmm. Surprise me.” I said with a smile.
“Are you sure? You trust me?” MinSeok asked suspiciously.
“Of course, I trust you.” I replied with a smile.
He nodded and said “Ok.”
I watched as he walked away, shaking out his wet hair. He was super handsome. As I daydreamed, I was startled by people yelling.
There was so much going on, there was no way you can do it all in one day. I smiled as I read the brochure on the table.
“Catching goldfish? I wonder what’s that?” I said to myself.
By the time I looked up, MinSeok had returned to the table.
“Are you ok?” MinSeok said as he put down the tray of food.
“Oh yes, of course, I’m perfectly fine. What did you get?” I said with a smile.
“I didn’t know what you’d liked so I got a few spring rolls and this stuff.” MinSeok said.
“What’s this stuff?” I pointed.
“Yeah, I didn’t know what it was but it looked good and interesting.” MinSeok explained.
He looked down and raised a fork with food to my face.
“You go first.” He said as he tried to feed me.
I smiled and took the first bite. It wasn’t bad, a bit spicy, kinda chewy. MinSeok smiled as I chewed slow and awkwardly.
“Well? What do you think?” He said.
“It’s not so bad. What is it?” I said with a mouth full.
He smiled as he watched me swallow.
“So what is it?” I said as I drank water to wash it all down.
“Its…” MinSeok said with a shy smile.
“What is it?” I said loudly.
“Its Nakji Bokum. Spicy octopus tenticles.” He said with a smile as he spooned some into his mouth.
“Really? That’s why you said it looked interesting.” I said in shock.
He nodded and smiled.
“Did you enjoy it?” MinSeok asked.
“Yes, it was good. That’s good way to make someone taste something different.” I said and drank more water to kill the heat.
We were having such a good time but the festival was beginning to wind down for today. What a better way to end the day then with festivals fireworks.
We began to walk over to the beach area to find a spot to sit and watch the fireworks.
“This is the best part.” MinSeok whispered in my ear.
I got the chills when I felt his breath hit my neck, so I closed my eyes and embraced it.
Just then the fireworks began.