It is more than 20 years since Yoon Seri crash landed on Ri Jeong-hyeok and they have had everything they ever dreamed of: love, marriage, family and success. But can their love and family survive the unexpected challenges they must now face?
"How d...
"They are such beautiful girls," said Yoon-he. "And I know they are going to make us so proud in the future. This one," she paused to kiss Ka-youn. "Is going to be bold and brave! And little Yeji is going to surprise everyone too!"
Jeong-hyeok laughed. "So you can tell all that, can you? They're only tiny!"
"You'll see!" said his mother seriously.
"And maybe they'll be part of the future, for both our countries."
From: the end of The Gift.
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Some Years Later
Jack stowed his shoulder bag in the cabin locker, just keeping out a few essentials for the long flight. He looked around and waved at a few familiar faces, former colleagues or associates, and recognised a few more of the younger generation of journalists and commentators. The flight was packed with them. Well, what would you expect on the first commercial American flight to Pyongyang.
He settled down, getting comfortable. He'd do some planning, reading, and it would be a good opportunity to catch up and gossip. Now that he was semi-retired, he didn't see the old crowd as much as he used to. It might be a long flight, but he wouldn't miss this for the world.
"Hey, Jack! Long time no see!"
He grinned. Will. It was good to see him again, and he was seated just across the aisle. Excellent! And there was Stacey; he knew she'd be here.
He waved at a few more people, but the air stewards were encouraging everyone to take their seats. The cabin door closed, and everyone prepared for take-off.
Once they were up in the air, and the seat belt lights off, the socialising began. As ever, it was a mix of industry gossip, exchanging news on shared acquaintances, but also probing to see how rivals might be placed to get the best angle on the story when they arrived. Jack didn't worry about the competition though, he just enjoyed being in the thick of it again.
"Bit surprised to see you here, Jack."
Carlo came over to him wearing the same arrogant expression he always seemed to have. Jack hadn't missed seeing him over the last few years.
"I thought you'd retired."
"Semi-retired," said Jack placidly. There was no way this old slime-ball could spoil his mood.
"I suppose you are a bit of a Koreanophile." Carlo leaned on the headrest of the seat in front, looking down on Jack - literally and figuratively.
"Did you have to twist your old editor's arm, to include you in the party?"
"Nope. I was the first one she asked." He smiled, enjoying himself now.
Carlo looked irritated. He was getting to him. Good!
"Are you kidding, Carlo!" chipped in Will. "Jack's the one to beat! He's got the star interviews all sown up!"
