A selection of birthdays from the lives of Jeong-hyeok and Seri.
From memories of Switzerland, to married life and family birthdays, they explore aspects of their love and lives. Some happy, some poignant, each scene stands alone and further scenes...
Years in the future, at the offices of Seri's Choice
"Ma-am, sorry to interrupt, but your husband's here."
Seri looked up from her desk as Manager Hong showed Jeong-hyeok into her office. She'd thought he was working at home today, but here he was, a broad smile lighting up his face.
"Hello, honey! What are you doing here?"
She came over to meet him and he pulled her into a hug before he spoke.
"Surprise! I'm here to collect you. It's your birthday treat."
"But it's not my birthday for a couple of days! What's going on?"
"It's all planned. Your suitcase is in the car. Manager Hong is taking care of everything here. And we're going away!"
"But what about the girls? They've got school. They can't take time out now."
"They don't need to. They are staying here. This is just for us. Now, log-off and get your bag, honey."
He was watching her, amused at her confusion. What was he doing springing something like this on her. But a few days away, just the two of them, sounded wonderful.
"Ok, I'm in. But where are we going?"
"I'll tell you soon!" He was clearly determined to tease her.
She kissed him lightly on the lips.
"Tease!"
She rushed back to clear her desk. She hesitated for a few moments, wondering whether to finish the report she'd been writing, but then she just closed down everything, threw some papers in her desk drawer, and logged off. Some things could just wait!
"Right I'm ready."
"Excellent!"
He held her coat for her and then brought her hand up to his lips, before leading her to the door. Secretary Ko and Manager Hong were just outside the office, beaming at her; he'd clearly told them all about his plan.
"Manager Hong, shall I just run through what needs to be done or rescheduled?"
"There's really no need, Ma'am. We've got an alternate diary and plan ready to go. You mustn't worry about work. We've got it all under control."
"Right. Oh, I see. Thank you."
"Goodbye, Ma'am. Have a wonderful time!"
"Well, goodbye. See you soon!"
Jeong-hyeok was pulling at her hand, keen to go. He'd got everything planned out; she'd better just see what he had in mind.
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In the car they headed away from the city centre, Seri trying to decide which direction they were heading towards. They passed two major turnoffs. The options had narrowed.
"Are we heading to the airport?"
"Yes," he said. He was concentrating on driving, but deliberately so. A smile playing about his lips, holding on to the surprise as long as possible.
"So, where are we flying to?"
"You'll have to be patient! Besides, I can't tell you now. I'm driving."
"Why can't you tell me now?"
He turned his head towards her, his expression a mixture of seriousness and a trace of a smirk.
"Because after I've told you, I want to be able to kiss you!"
What on earth was he planning?
She gave up and settled back to relax. Whatever it was, he was very pleased about it. And a few days abroad somewhere would be a lovely birthday treat.
They pulled up in the airport car park, and he turned off the engine. She waited, the question hanging on her lips.
He leant towards her, clearly intent on a kiss.
"Hey! Tell me first! I've been very patient."
"OK. Switzerland!"
"What? Hmhh.."
The words ended as his lips found hers, one hand gently caressing the back of her neck, the other finding her own, lacing their fingers together. His love, his touch, was irresistible, even after all these years, and nothing but that moment mattered. Then, as he drew back, her mind registered what he'd said.
"Switzerland! Really? But that's such a long way for a couple of days. Have you packed warm clothes for me? Switzerland!"
He was grinning at her confusion, but he gently raised her hand to his lips.
"I've always wanted to take you back. For one reason and another, we've never done that. After what we've been through in the last couple of years, I thought it was time. So, Mrs Ri, will you come on a second honeymoon with me?"
"Oh honey! That's the most wonderful idea! Of course I will." And she leant across to kiss him. He was right, it was time they went back. The last two years had reminded them of everything they had, everything they shared. They should take the time to celebrate that.
"So here's the plan. We are flying overnight to Zurich and then we'll drive to our destination. But I'm not going to tell you more yet. We'll be away for a week. The girls and Sun-hee helped me pack, so hopefully we've got everything you need. All you need to do is relax and enjoy the trip. If we go and check in now, you will have plenty of time to call the girls from the airport lounge."
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Author's Note A fun chapter to celebrate 2 February! The birthday treat continues in the next chapter.
